Manila Standard - 2024 May 25 - Saturday

By Maricel Cruz

A CHINA Coast Guard Vessel known as "The Monster," the largest coast guard ship in the world, conducted an "intrusive patrol" in Scarborough Shoal yesterday.

Ex-US Air Force official and maritime security expert Ray Powell said the 165-meter CCG ship -- with bow number 5901-- was spotted within Scarborough at 5:15 a.m. Friday along with a smaller CCG vessel with bow number 5203. Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad confirmed the presence of the CCG vessel.

"Yes. It is 50 nautical miles from Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc,” Trinidad said during the Philippine Navy's anniversary at its headquarters in Manila.

By Rio N. Araja

Coast Guard opens new outpost in far-flung Itbayat

As tensions heighten between China and Taiwan

By Vince Lopez

The Philippines said Friday it had opened a coast guard post in the country's far north to boost security following China's "military buildup" near Taiwan over the past two years.

By Maricel V. Cruz and Vince Lopez

THE House of Representatives’ joint committee has invited former defense secretary Voltaire Gazmin and former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque to appear in the next hearing to shed light on the so-called “gentlemen’s agreement” between former President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The House committee on national defense and security chairman Iloilo

Rep. Raul Tupas confirmed that the invitation to Gazmin had already been forwarded by the Committee on National Defense and Security and Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea chaired by Mandaluyong City Rep. Neptali Gonzales II. Gazmin was the defense secretary during the term of former President Benigno Aquino III, and Roque, the former spokesperson of Duterte.

“Our joint committee has issued an invitation, signed by the Chairman of

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to fly to Brunei and Singapore for back-to-back visits next week, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). In a Palace briefing, Foreign Affairs

FORMER Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) governor Nur Misuari and six others were found guilty of two counts of graft by the Sandiganbayan Third Division over “ghost” purchases amounting to P77 million worth of learning tools from 2000 to 2001.

Misuari and his six co-accused, namely, Leovigilda Cinches, Pangalian Maniri, Sittie Aisa Usman, Alladin Usi, Nader Macagaan and Cristeta Ramirez, were sentenced to six to eight years for

each count of graft topped with a perpetual disqualification from public office.

Misuari, through the same ruling, was cleared of the charge of malversation of public funds. In his defense, the former head of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) said the alleged illegal transaction were carried out during the time of his successor, Parouk Hussin. The date in which the purchases had been made was in 2003 to 2004.

spokesperson Teresita Daza said First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos will accompany the President during the trip.

"The President will be traveling to Brunei on [the] 28th to 29th of May to undertake his first state visit to the Sultanate. While in Brunei, the

The outpost in Itbayat, Batanes "shall gather essential maritime data and intelligence, enabling the (Philippine Coast Guard) to respond effectively to threats such as illicit trade, trafficking, piracy, and foreign intrusions," National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said in a statement. Itbayat is located around 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Taiwan's south coast.

China said on Friday that Taiwan's leadership was pushing the selfruled island into war and warned of further "countermeasures" as Beijing conducted military drills around the territory.

Chinese warships and fighter jets surrounded Taiwan on the second day of drills that Beijing said were a test of its ability to seize the island, days after its new president was sworn in. In Manila, the Philippine Navy said it monitoring the situation in Taiwan.

President will be meeting with His Majesty, the Sultan, who is also Sultan Head of State of Brunei Darussalam," Daza said.

"There will be a business forum where the President will meet with top members of the business sectors to

CHINA’S ‘MONSTER’ SHOWS UP. The world’s largest, China-owned, coast guard ship, also known as the Monster, shows up near Scarborough Shoal days after a lone civilian boat slipped through a blockade to bring supplies to Filipino fishermen.

(The South China Sea Chronicle Initiative) Inset photo shows NSC chief Eduardo Año (middle), Cagayan Gov. Marilou Cayco, (left), and PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan (right), cutting the ribbon of the new Coast Guard outpost in Itbayat, Batanes.

Marcos orders faster release of land titles

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Marcos, Jr. yesterday called on government agencies to expedite land distribution in the Zamboanga Peninsula to enhance agricultural productivity and improve farmers' lives.

He emphasized the need for collaboration among agencies like the DENR's Land Management Services and the Land Bank of the Philippines at the distribution of land titles ceremony at the Zamboanga del Norte

Coast...

From A1

“We do not want to speculate but we are also, on our end, monitoring the situation,” Philippine Navy chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. said.

“Of course, anything that transpires around us should be watched keenly and observed because it may or may not have an effect on us,” he added.

Año, for his part, noted that in 2022, the area around Itbayat "witnessed a military build-up as China responded to political developments between Taiwan and the United States."

"Securing peace, stability, and freedom of navigation along the Luzon Strait is crucial for ensuring Philippine national security and economic prosperity," Año said.

The PCG outpost in the country's northern region followed the identification of two latest additional EDCA sites are in Cagayan – the Naval Base Camilo Osias in Sta. Ana and the Lal-Lo Airport -- as part of defense cooperation with the United States.

China...

From A1

“The actions, the response will be at the National Task Force-WPS level. It is a China Coast Guard ship. There will be appropriate response from the NTF, most likely the Philippine Coast Guard,” he added.

Scarborough Shoal, also known as Panatag Shoal, is within the Philippines' 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone.

"China conducts intrusive patrols deep within the EEZ of neighboring countries… to establish a continuous presence and gradually normalize

‘Aghon’...

From A1

The center of “Aghon” was estimated at 135 kilometers northeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur or 185 kms east southeast of Surigao City.

It was moving west, northwestward at 30 km/h, packing maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h near the center and gustiness of up to 70 km/h, the weather bureau said.

Tropical cyclone wind signal was raised in Sorsogon, Albay, Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte and Masbate, including Ticao and Eastern Samar, Samar, Northern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Biliran, Cebu, including Camotes Islands, Bantayan Islands and Bohol, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, including Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur and Agusan del Norte.

“Aghon” is forecast to move generally west, northwestward to northwestward from upto today while slowly intensifying, PAGASA said.

It is forecast to make landfall over the southern portion of Eastern Samar or Dinagat Islands as a tropical storm today. Afterwards, Aghon is forecast to pass north, northwestward through the coast of Northern Samar, then may possibly make another landfall tonight over the southeastern portion of Bicol region (Sorsogon, Albay, or Catanduanes) as a tropical storm.

On Sunday, Aghon will begin recurving generally northward or north, northeastward over the waters east of Luzon while starting to continuously intensify.

DOH...

From A1

“It’s not as severe as the Alpha and Delta variants but we still

Convention Center.

The President reiterated his directive to the Department of Agrarian Reform to hasten land title distribution to alleviate farmers' poverty and ensure food security.

"To our register of deeds, the same goes for them. They really play a big part in what we do. In the Land Management Services of DENR, Land Bank of the Philippines, and even in our officials from different local governments here in Zamboanga, let's

The EDCA sites in Isabela and Cagayan in the northernmost tip of the country have alarmed Beijing because of its proximity to Taiwan.

Ano said he sees the Luzon Strait, which lies between the Philippines and Taiwan, both as a "vital international waterway" and "a potential flashpoint for regional and international conflicts."

It was the focus earlier this month of major annual joint military exercises between Manila and its longtime ally the United States.

These included using missiles and artillery to repel an imaginary invasion force off the northwest of the Philippines' main island of Luzon.

Beijing and Manila are in a bitter diplomatic dispute over rival claims to parts of the South China Sea.

China has built artificial islands and military installations in waters close to the Philippines. Its efforts to enforce its claims have in recent years included water cannon attacks by China Coast Guard vessels that damaged Philippine government boats and injured several crew members.

With AFP

Chinese jurisdiction over areas granted to its neighbors under international law," Powell said. Meanwhile, Speaker Martin Romualdez asserted that Filipinos should be allowed to fish in Scarborough Shoal without fear of being harassed or bullied by the Chinese as it is clearly within the country's EEZ.

In a message to Zambales fishermen and local officials read by Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Romualdez called for unity in fighting for the rights of fishermen in the province and nearby Pangasinan to fish in their traditional fishing ground.

Gazmin...

From A1

the West Philippine Sea and us as acting Chairman. I am representing Cong. Oca Malapitan because he is still out of the country. An invitation has been issued in our next hearing for former presidential spokesperson, Atty. Roque, as well as the former secretary of defense,” Tupas disclosed.

He said the joint panel still has to request permission from the House leadership so they could conduct the next hearing as Congress is on sine die adjournment.

“We still have yet to request permission from the leadership because we are on break, if it is possible during the period of adjournment or maybe we can just come back when the session resumes,” Tupas said.

During the second hearing of the joint panel last Tuesday, Duterte’s former executive secretary, lawyer Salvador Medialdea, revealed that the status quo at the Ayungin Shoal, where the dilapi-

Sandiganbayan...

From A1

In September 2018, Misuari sought for his case to be dismissed, raising zero evidence and inordinate delay as his defense.

Misuari filed a motion for reconsideration on January 14 after his plea for dismissal was denied, raising again the issue that the said transaction was accomplished way beyond his term as ARMM governor.

with ABS-CBN. According to Domingo, however, only those struck by severe cases might be able to avail of the reformulated vaccines because of the cost.

“It depends on the severity. We have seen with KP.2 and KP.3, which are the proper names for the FLiRT variants, based on data from Singapore and other countries. It’s not severe – it’s mostly

just keep moving forward and working together," President Marcos said.

"Along with my gratitude to you is the reissuance of the directive to further expedite the process of distributing titles and services to our beneficiaries. In our Agrarian Reform Program, let's end the poverty of our farmers against the threat of hunger, against being buried in debt, and against poverty," he added.

President Marcos distributed land titles to 4,456 agrarian reform beneficiaries during the event,

expressing hope that their children would continue farming.

"I hope that you will encourage your children and their future children to continue the noble profession of farming because they are the hope of the next generation," he said.

The President also handed over more than P15 million worth of farming tools to 15,773 beneficiaries from Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay to boost productivity.

“You are not alone in facing China's threats. Let's be united and continue to fight for our right to fish in Bajo de Masinloc. We know that this is part of our territory and belongs to the Philippines," the Speaker said. Romualdez’s message was read during the hearing in Masinloc town of the House committee on national defense and security and the special committee on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on the alleged secret deal between former President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the WPS. The leader of the 309-strong House of Representatives said Filipino fish-

dated warship BRP Sierra Madre was grounded since 1999, was part of a 2013 commitment of Gazmin to Chinese Ambassador Ma Keqing that only food and water will be delivered to the marines stationed at the vessel.

Roque was quoted as claiming that Duterte had a verbal agreement with China not to construct and repair Philippine facilities in the WPS, as well as bring construction materials for BRP Sierra Madre.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea and newly-appointed Naval Inspector General (TNIG), Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad, said on May 24 at the Philippine Navy’s 126th anniversary celebration, that there was no reason to investigate Vice-Admiral Alberto Carlos who was linked to a wiretapped call with the defense attaché of Beijing in Manila. China, in early May, threatened to leak the audio recording and transcript of the conversation, which is claimed was proof that the Philippines agreed with China to the so called terms in order to bring down tensions in the WPS,

Marcos... From A1

promote trade and investment relations between the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam," she added.

The DFA official said the President's visit to Singapore is for his participation in the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue on May 31.

According to Foreign Affairs Office

cough and colds. If we say we will purchase new vaccines, that’s another story. That means we will have to spend billions again,” he explained.

“Where will we get the funding? Which vaccines will be defunded – pertussis, measles, tuberculosis? We have to make the decision. Another option is to not give everyone vaccine, may just those who are high-risk. But what’s im-

ermen are not alone in fighting for their right to their livelihood in Bajo de Masinloc. Romualdez cited the support extended by the country’s allies and the resolute stance of President Marcos on the issue.

“Even the allies in the international community, are watching and with us in this fight. And above all, our beloved President Bongbong Marcos Jr. is behind you and will never leave you," he said. The Masinloc hearing was presided over by Iloilo Rep. Raul Tupas, defense committee chairman, and Gonzales for the Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea.

particularly Ayungin Shoal.

The Chinese consulate in Manila eventually released a portion of the supposed transcript of the alleged conversation to two Philippine print publications and allowed reporters to listen to part of the supposed recording.

While Carlos confirmed to the Senate that Colonel Li of the Chinese embassy called him in January 2024, he did not speak in detail about their conversation.

VADM Carlos also denied that he was part of making such agreements with China, affirming that he did not know the call was being recorded.

Meanwhile, Commodore Trinidad downplayed speculation over the former WESCOM chief’s nearly month-long leave.

“The AFP deemed it necessary to have a regular commander, hence Admiral Torres was designated as the regular commander of Western Command. This would also allow Admiral Carlos to be able to face all the issues and the smear campaign raised against him. So, he was rotated to GHQ to give him the time,” the Navy official said.

of the Asian Pacific Affairs Assistant Secretary Aileen Mendiola-Rau, Marcos will be the first Filipino president to deliver a keynote address at the annual intergovernmental security forum. Mendiola-Rau said the President is expected to have a dialogue with Singapore's new Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the sidelines of the event.

"We expect several side meetings during the Shangri-La Dialogue," she said.

portant is to bring the new vaccines here in the country,” he added. Domingo said that the only possibility he can see in order to bring the reformulated vaccines into the country is through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). He said manufacturers of the said vaccines can apply for Certificate of Production Registration (CPR).

Brownouts affect 480,000 Meralco users

POWER outages hit more than 480,000 customers of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) due to insufficient supply on Thursday evening.

The power interruptions lasted for over an hour in parts of Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, and Pampanga, according to Meralco.

This comes after the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) placed the Luzon and Visayas grids under red and yellow alerts, and warned of possible power interruptions.

Meralco said that services were restored at 11:55 p.m.

"We thank our affected customers for their understanding. We also express our appreciation to ILP (Interruptible Load Program) participants in the Meralco franchise area that de-loaded yesterday for their help in managing the situation," Meralco Spokesperson and Head of Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga said.

"We also urge the public to continue practicing energy efficiency and conservation measures to aid in demandside management," Zaldarriaga added.

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court (SC) on Friday confirmed it has received a preliminary report from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) regarding the arrest of an employee at Pasay City Regional Trial Court Branch 108. The said employee allegedly accepted a P6-million bribe from a litigant in exchange for a favorable ruling in a pending civil case.

Citing the NBI report, the SC said that upon arrest, the unnamed court’s employee allegedly said “the exchange was upon the instruction of the Presiding Judge.” Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, who was in Ormoc City, Leyte, for a caravan on the pilot implementation of the Office of the Regional Court Manager, has already ordered Court Administrator Raul B. Villanueva to investigate the matter.

The Chief Justice also required the Court Administrator to submit on Monday a report and his recommendation on the incident.

DAZZLERS. Bininibining Pilipinas 2024 candidates dazzle as they parade in their colorful Filipiniana dresses during the Santaruzan procession yesterday inside the Quantum Sky in Araneta Center in Quezon City. Danny Pata

NEWS IN BRIEF

PTV casual employees put under SSS coverage

SOME 600 cameramen, production assistants, reporters, and newscasters of the state-run television station People’s Television Network are now be eligible for social security coverage and protection under the KaSSSangga Collect program.

Social Security System president and chief executive officer Rolando Macasaet and PTV general manager

Analisa Puod have signed an agreement viewed as a “historic partnership to mark a significant step” toward providing SSS benefits to casual workers of the PTV.

Macasaet commended Puod and other PTV officials for registering their employees on job order (JO) status to become SSS members.

“We laud the initiative of PTV to help their job order workers secure their future and prepare for their retirement by becoming SSS members. We thanked PTV for allowing their JO workers to get the social security protection they deserve,” he said.

The SSS official appealed to other government agencies and local government units to follow the example set by the PTV’s leadership. Rio N. Araja

Solon insists holding BSKE in 2026 logical

A LEGISLATOR insists that holding the next barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) in 2026 is meant to restore “consistency, constancy and stability” in the recurring balloting for these local executives.

Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte in a statement said holding the BSKE in October 2026 is in accordance with the mandate of the 1987 Constitution and the Local Government Code of 1991 on three-year terms for these elective officials.

“Because the incumbent barangay and SK officials were elected in the BSKE polls last Oct. 30, 2023, they will in effect be serving for shorter two-year terms if the next balloting for these local officials were to be held on December 1, 2025 as now scheduled,” Villafuerte, a lead author of House Bill 10344 that sets the next BSKE polls in 2026, said. He agreed with the view of a National Citizens Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel) that regular elections guarantee that the government remains accountable to the people as delaying this political exercise erodes confidence in this electoral process and in democratic institutions. Maricel V. Cruz

Battle of Balete Pass revisited on 79 th year

THE Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) and the municipal government of Santa Fe, Nueva Vizcaya led the commemoration of the 79th anniversary of the Battle of Balete Pass deemed one of the most decisive battles during World War 2. Over 8,600 Filipino combat officers and troops, predominantly from the United States Army Forces in the Philippines - Northern Luzon (USAFIP-NL), joined the US Army 25 th Division to defeat the Imperial Japanese Army under Gen. Tomoyuki Yamashita.

As the only access between Central Luzon and Cagayan Valley, the mountain road witnessed fierce and bloody fighting which concluded on May 13, 1945 when the Japanese retreated to the Cordillera mountains. In the subsequent mopping up operations.

Maj. Gen. James Dalton II of the US Army was killed by a Japanese sniper three days later.

Ombudsman sacks N. Ecija gov

By Rio N. Araja

THE Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the preventive suspension of Nueva Ecija Gov. Aurelio Umali, who was facing administrative charges for alleged issuance of illegal quarry permits.

In a three-page ruling, the anti-graft prosecutors said they found sufficient evidence of guilt against Umali who was accused of gross misconduct and gross neglect of duty “which may warrant his removal from the service.”

Umali, his wife-former governor Czarina Umali and natural resources officer Wilfredo Pangilinan were facing administrative complaints for “grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty and conduct prejudicial to the best

interest of the service” under the Civil Service Law.

The complainant, Roberto Duldulao, accused the Umalis and Pangilinan of conspiracy to issue 205 quarry permits for extraction of sand and gravel to unqualified individuals who failed to submit an environmental compliance certificate (ECC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Instead of requiring submission of the ECC, Umali only required the quarry applicants to secure local environment clearance certificates (LECCs).

The Ombudsman cited a report of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability citing that accepting LECCs “is a clear circumvention of the law.”

“On the other hand, provincial environment and natural resources officer (PENRO) Wilfredo Pangilinan conspired with and joined spouses Umali in the commission of the unlawful act by his continued observance and issuance of recommendation for the approval of quarry permits with the use only of the LECC,” the Ombudsman resolution stated.

Customs installs modern scanners in key airports

By Vito Barcelo

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has installed state-ofthe-art scanning machines at key international airports that can check out baggage containing large electronics and liquids, including bombs with minimal human intervention, thus expediting the screening process and enhancing public safety.

The new machines, called Rapiscan 920CT (Computed Tomography) and the Tek84 Intercept body scanner, is a “testament to the BOC’s commitment to improve the detection of illicit items to ensure passengers’ safety.” In a statement, the BOC said that the Rapiscan 920CT X-ray machine employs “cutting-edge technology to identify explosives and other hazardous materials,” adding that “one of its notable features is the ability to scan baggage containing illicit items such as electronic and liquid explosives.”

Customs chief Bienvenido Rubio said the integration of the Rapiscan Systems’ Tray Return System will enhance airport security and operational efficiency by accelerating passenger checks and minimizing delays.

MMDA, DPWH join hands to mitigate La Niña impact in NCR

By Joel E. Zurbano

TWO government agencies are collaborating with local government units in Metro Manila to mitigate the potential impacts of La Niña in the National Capital Region (NCR).

"We met with officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and representatives of

local governments in Metro Manila in preparations for La Niña or heavy rains," said chairman Romando Artes of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

Artes said the MMDA and the DPWH have outlined various measures being implemented by the government, including the construction of pumping stations in flood-prone areas in the

metropolis as part of the Metro Manila Flood Management Project. Three pumping stations in Manila have been completed, and bidding is underway for the construction of four pumping stations in Quezon City, covering Araneta, Tatalon, and the Roxas District.

In case the pumping stations are inadequate, Artes said they have agreed to open the floodgates of the sewerage treatment plant in Manila Bay as needed to facilitate the free flow and quick recession of floodwater in the affected areas. The Sunog Apog Pumping Station, currently under construction along San Diego Street in Manila was expected to reduce flooding along España Boulevard.

Bicol Region gears up for low pressure area,

bad weather during the weekend

By Rosas Olarte

BICOL has been placed under blue alert status on orders of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in anticipation of a low pressure area (LPA) expected to hit Region 5 this weekend.

The order issued by Bicol RDRRMC chairman and Office of Civil Defense regional director Claudio Yucot enjoined all provincial, municipal, city RRDMC’s and response agencies to prepare for the

moderate to intense rains that might be experienced in some parts of the region during the weekend.

Yucot instructed all provincial and Local DRRMCs to closely monitor the effects of the weather disturbance in their areas of responsibility, and provide immediate updates for the EOC. Yucot also told the response agencies to activate their operational plan in case a gale warning is raised by the weather bureau.

Land travels to Visayas and Mindanao and to island provinces of Masbate and Catanduanes were suspended to ward off untoward incidents.

THE FORCES STRIKE AGAIN. The so-called “River Warriors” and the “Estero Rangers” strike again to clean up the Binondo Estuary in Manila of silts and garbage blamed for the street floodings in the district after the rains. Norman Cruz

REQUIEM FOR A POLICE HERO. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte joins local police officials in a wreath-laying ceremony marking the 40 th death anniversary of Maj. Gen. Tomas B. Karingal who led the Quezon City police from July 5, 1967 to Dec. 19, 1975. He was assassinated by suspected communist insurgents on May 24, 1984 on Scout Borromeo St., in Quezon City. Manny Palmero

PNP chief orders crackdown vs. name-dropping scammers

PHILIPPINE National Police chief Gen. Rommel Marbil on Friday ordered the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to go after scammers using his name in illegal activities.

“I have received a report that they are using my name. That is what happens when a new PNP chief is appointed,” he said in an interview on the sidelines of the 41st anniversary celebration of the Special Action Force in Fort Sto. Domingo, Sta. Rosa, Laguna. “I don’t tolerate these things. It is not

DOT: Mindanao ready for more leisure travel

MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon—More than a year since she announced plans to help open Mindanao for leisure travel, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said she believes the region is now ready to welcome more tourists from across the globe.

The Philippines has been promoting tourism-ready areas in Mindanao in a strategic approach, in close coordination with relevant security offices throughout the process, Frasco said.

“Mindanao is ready for tourism, Mindanao is ready to welcome the world to its beautiful lands, its wonderful shores, and to share the bounty that is so abundant here,” she said.

Frasco is in Bukidnon to promote the various destinations and experiences Northern Mindanao has to offer under the newly launched NorthMin Philippine Experience Program (PEP): Culture, Heritage & Arts Caravan.

During the three-day event, the DOT will showcase the rich heritage of Cagayan de Oro as a melting pot of cultures in the region, down to good food and modern-day thrills at the Dahilayan Adventure Park in Manolo Fortich.

“I invite our compatriots to visit Northern Mindanao,” Frasco said.

TOURISM PUSH. Members of various tribes in Bukidnon perform during the second day of the NorthMin Philippine Experience Program (PEP):

&

on

IN BRIEF

PDEA: Beware of ‘magic’ shrooms

THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency on Friday cautioned the public against the use, sale, distribution and cultivation of “magic mushrooms” which contain a substance prohibited by Philippine laws.

In a statement, PDEA said these products contain psilocybin or commonly known as “katsubong” in some regions, which is included in the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) updated list of Scheduled Controlled Substances.

“It is also included in the Schedule I of the 1971 United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances. When ingested, psilocybin turns into psilocin, which can produce psychedelic effects similar to the hallucinogenic drug lysergic acid diethylamide, or LSD,” it added.

The anti-drug body also said it is strengthening its intelligence monitoring of psychedelic mushrooms in the market and seeks the cooperation of the public in reporting such incidents. Rio N. Araja

FL Liza’s caravan: 1,500 beneficiaries

proper for the PNP to be involved in these illegal activities,” he added.

Marbil gave the directive after the CIDG arrested a suspect identified as Deanson Magsino for violating the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, along Gen. Malvar Ave. Barangay Poblacion 1, Sto. Tomas City, Batangas at about 1:30 a.m. Wednesday.

The operating team asked Magsino

to present a license and permit to carry a caliber .45 pistol with one magazine and seven rounds of live ammunition.

The suspect, however, failed to present proper documents.

Arresting officers learned the suspect was involved in collecting money from establishments and was using the PNP chief’s name in the provinces of Laguna, Batangas, and Cavite.

Human rights body urges gov’t to release oldest political prisoner

By Rio N. Araja

THE Commission on Human Rights on Friday urged the government to expedite the release of the country’s oldest political prisoner, who has served over a decade of his prison term.

The CHR said 85-year-old Gerardo dela Peña “is already entitled for release after being qualified for executive clemency, in-

Canadian

FIRST Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ “LAB for All Caravan” has attended to the medical and social needs of around 1,500 beneficiaries, including 300 pregnant women, according to PhilHealth.

The beneficiaries came from the local government units (LGUs) of Olongapo, Subic, Castillejos, and San Marcelino, all in Zambales.

LAB for All stands for “Laboratoryo, Konsulta, at Gamot Para sa Lahat.” It is the flagship project of the First Lady that aims to bring essential government services closer to the people, especially those who are in need.

The 26th leg of the health caravan was held at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center, Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Zambales. PhilHealth registered the beneficiaries and facilitated their first patient encounter with their chosen Konsulta Package Providers present onsite. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Angeles City is PH’s 5th largest urban economy ANGELES City has been identified as one of the largest urban economies in the world, ranking 5th in the Philippines, according to the UKbased think tank Oxford Economics. Angeles City is among the nine Philippine cities that made it into the top 1,000 global urban economies worldwide, Oxford Economics’ 2024 Global Cities Index showed. Mayor Carmelo Lazatin Jr. said this is a milestone for the people of Angeles City.

cluding other political prisoners and persons deprived of liberty” under a resolution of the Board of Pardons and Parole.

The resolution grants release for one who is at least 70 years old and has served at least 10 years of their sentence.

Dela Peña was arrested on March 21, 2013, at the age of 74 in Vinzons, Camarines Norte.

He has served his sentence with over

‘drug lord’ in P9.6-b

shabu haul to serve time in PH

By Vito Barcelo

A CANADIAN drug trafficker involved in the botched P9.6 billion illegal drug operation in Batangas will have to spend almost his entire life in a Philippine jail before being deported, according to the Bureau of Immigration.

Thomas Gordon O’Quinn, who has been described as a “major player” in the smuggling of 1.4 tons of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) seized in a checkpoint in Alitagtag, Batangas last month, will face local charges against him before he can be deported, Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said.

“He has to stand trial and face his crimes locally before we deport him so he can again stand trial for the crimes he committed abroad,” said Tansingco.

He said the coordination of local law enforcement agencies and the BI, which resulted in O’Quinn’s arrest, disrupted the operations of a major criminal gang that is attempting to conduct drug operations in the Philippines.

O’Quinn, who uses the alias James Martin, 38-years-old, was arrested on May 16 in Bgy. Maitim II in Tagaytay City.

He is considered a big-time drug lord, and is wanted by Interpol for cases filed against him in the US.

He was reportedly charged before a US court with conspiracy to distribute and possess, with intent to distribute, the illegal substance called methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) and five kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.

12 years of detention, not including the total good conduct time allowance points he has accrued.

“In his decade-long imprisonment, his health has now declined with his eyesight and hearing also deteriorating,” CHR said.

The commission also cited that since the Philippines is a state signatory to the Basic Principles on the Use of Restorative Justice Programmes in Criminal Matters, the government should put primacy to efforts to ensure a humane correctional system in the country.

“We take this opportunity to call for the release of persons deprived of liberty who have demonstrated good behavior and have met the legal standards for executive clemency as this would greatly help toward the government’s ongoing jail decongestion efforts,” the CHR said.

Angeles City ranked 502nd globally, based on five categories – economics, human capital, quality of life, environment, and governance. Angeles City’s strength lies in the environment category, the report said. Among the flagship programs of Lazatin is on the environment, with the city government starting its massive reforestation effort in 2020 at the Angeles City Watershed. Butch Gunio

among Filipino children and young adults,’ Alonzo said.

FOR THE THREE STARS AND A SUN. The owner of a Philippine flag store in Sta. Cruz, Manila prepares for the National Flag Day celebration on Tuesday next week. The event marks the day the national emblem was first unfurled following the Filipino revolutionaries’ victory over the Spanish forces in the 1898 Battle of Alapan in Imus, Cavite. Norman Cruz

OPINION

The Holy Spirit, our defense lawyer

LAST Sunday, Catholics celebrated the feast of Pentecost, also the anniversary of the birth of the Church.

The Gospel on Pentecost Sunday recounts the doors were closed in the room where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews.

Jesus came and stood among them. He said to them, “Peace be with you,” and showed them his hands and his side.

The disciples were filled with joy when they saw the Lord, and he said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, so am I sending you.”

After saying this he breathed on them and said: “Receive the Holy Spirit. For those whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven: for those whose sins you retain, they are retained.”

Pentecost marks the day when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles and other believers. This event took place 50 days after Jesus’ resurrection and 10 days after His ascension.

Pentecost calls on us to a mission and the aim of this mission is to ensure “the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea”.

When we truly grasp the significance of this monumental event, our hearts will burn with the desire to witness individuals from every tribe, tongue, and nation bowing before the exalted Lord Jesus Christ.

Pentecost signifies God’s mission to equip His church with the Holy Spirit’s power. As believers, we participate in this mission, sharing the Gospel and making disciples.

Having the Holy Spirit as our Paraclete means God Himself dwells within us.

The Spirit instructs us in God’s Word and leads us into truth.

During challenging times, the Spirit recalls Jesus’ teachings to us, offering assurance and wisdom. But “Without the Holy Spirit, all zeal is vain and falsely apostolic,” Pope Francis teaches.

Explaining the above Gospel passage Pope Francis said the role of the Spirit in bringing harmony to the world, the Spirit “directs the course of time and renews the face of the earth.”

He lamented that our world today, marked by discord and divisions, desperately needs this harmony, yet resists it.

Although we may be more “connected,” we are in reality more isolated, “anesthetized by indifference.”

He emphasized that the numerous wars and conflicts we witness today reveal the extent of evil individuals can commit, driven by the spirit of division—the devil, whose name means “divider.”

The Pope illustrated how the Spirit descended upon each apostle, bestowing

special graces and unique charisms on each one.

While it might seem these differing gifts could lead to confusion, in reality, just as in the natural world, “the Holy Spirit loves to create harmony out of diversity.”

The Holy Spirit is not an abstract concept but a living, active presence who seeks to work in our lives.

The Holy Spirit performs important roles and functions.

As a Guide: The Holy Spirit guides believers into truth and helps them discern God’s will.

As a Comforter: He provides comfort, encouragement, and strength. In difficult times, earthly remedies may provide temporary relief, but the Spirit offers lasting peace to our hearts.

As a Convicter of Sin: The Spirit convicts people of their need for salvation.

During challenging moments, with challenged bodies, broken hearts, and unquiet minds, the Holy Spirit acts as our guiding light

As Sanctifier, the Spirit works to transform believers, making them more like Christ.

Understanding the Holy Spirit can be challenging at times, but it serves as the bridge that keeps us connected to God.

Personally, I have found this to be effective whenever I find myself drifting away.

During challenging moments, with challenged bodies, broken hearts, and unquiet minds, the Holy Spirit acts as our guiding light.

Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus continually strengthens our faith, empowers us to bear witness, and enables us to proclaim the profound message of the gospel.

The Holy Spirit plays a pivotal role in the lives of believers, serving as the conduit through which Jesus continually strengthens our faith, empowers us to bear witness, and enables us to proclaim the profound message of the gospel.

The Holy Spirit, according to a wise and compassionate priest I know, is our defense lawyer, always our best advocate. No one can do it better.

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

China’s SCS governance, PH’s devastation

FOLLOWING the revival of the USPhilippine “assertive transparency” or “water cannon me” campaign, Senators of the 19th Congress of the Philippines are getting exercised over China’s promulgation of its new regulations on administrative law-enforcement procedures of its Coast Guard agencies (called for short by the Chinese media as the “Procedures”) perceiving it as targeting of Filipino fishermen venturing into China’s claim territorial waters.

China’s Global Times, one of the major Communist Party of China English newspapers had this to say about the Philippine reaction to the Procedures: “Chinese experts on Saturday slammed the interpretation, saying that these Filipino media outlets deliberately sensationalized and distorted the issue, maliciously slandered the Procedures, exposing ulterior motives and a guilty conscience. The promulgation of the Procedures is aimed at maintaining the order of normal economic activities at sea, and fishermen from China and other countries are treated equally before the regulations.”

It is both relevant and imperative to cite Paragraph 809 of the Arbitration Award itself in connection with this Pro-

cedure in relation to the rights of other coastal states’ fishermen enjoying the “traditional fishing grounds” in some of the common but disputed areas like the Scarborough Shoal:

China is the only SCS coastal state that has imposed an annual five-months fishing moratorium in the SCS for its fishing fleet from May to September

“809. The Tribunal notes, however, that traditional fishing rights are not absolute or impervious to regulation. Indeed, the careful regulation of traditional fishing may be necessary for conservation and to restrict environmentally harmful practices. Customary international law, in this respect, does not restrict the coastal State from reasonable regulation (a principle recognized with respect to treaty-based fishing rights in

TSad summary

HE forests and mountains in the Philippines are in poor condition, with a forest cover ranking among the lowest in the world at only 0.085 hectares per capita.

Observers have noted deforestation has accelerated due to irresponsible logging practices, slash-and-burn farming, agricultural expansion, and illegal logging activities.

Deforestation is a serious problem affecting many countries, and the Philippines, home to a lineup of unique flora and fauna, is no exception and has put many of these species at risk of extinction.

Deforestation, which has affected biodiversity in the Philippines, one of the most severely deforested countries in the tropics, with most deforestation happening in the last 40 years, has, according to experts, long-term negative impacts on

the country’s food production. It has also been associated with floods, soil erosion, deaths, and damage to property.

Estimates place forest cover in the Philippines in the year 1900 at 21 million hectares, covering 70 percent of the total land area.

Deforestation has accelerated due to irresponsible logging practices, slashand-burn farming, agricultural expansion, and illegal logging activities

If forests are cleared, or even disturbed, they release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases.

Climate experts have said forest loss and damage have caused around 10 percent of global warming, adding there is

simply no way we can fight the climate crisis if we don’t stop deforestation. From 2001 to 2023, the Philippines lost 1.47 million hectares of relative tree cover, equivalent to a 7.9 percent decrease since 2000 and 0.30 percent of the global total.

In at least one report, 442,870 deforestation alerts were detected in the Philippines, which affected an area of about 5.35 thousands in hectares.

The government has implemented programs and policies to promote reforestation, sustainable forest management, and biodiversity conservation. One such is the National Greening Program, which aims to plant 1.5 billion trees across 1.5 million hectares of land by 2028 . It is heartening to note the government has committed to addressing the deforestation issue through robust policy initiatives, including the establishment of the Philippine Reduce Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation Sytrategy or REDD Plus. We have our fingers crossed the Philippines will be able to stand up to the challenge.

Mines, unexploded ordnance daily menace for Afghanistan’s children

GHAZNI, Afghanistan – The black mushroom cloud had barely faded in Ghazni province before kids clustered around the edge of the crater created by the mine, one of the devices that kills a child every other day in Afghanistan.

Afghans have been able to return to fields, schools and roads since the Taliban authorities ended their insurgency and ousted the Western-backed government in 2021.

But with new freedom of movement comes the danger of remnants left behind after 40 years of successive conflicts.

Nearly 900 people were killed or wounded by leftover munitions from Jan. 2023 to April this year alone, most of them children, according to UN figures.

The anti-tank mine had been 100 meters from Qach Qala village, south of the provincial capital Ghazni, since the Soviet invasion from 1979 to 1989. Deminers from the British organization Halo Trust cautiously unearthed then detonated it, the explosion echoing three kilometres (nearly two miles) around.

But before it was set off, a Taliban member roared up to the deminers on his motorcycle.

“Give me that mine!” he demanded.

“I’ll keep it safe at home. We can use it later when Afghanistan is occupied again.”

The mine couldn’t be “so dangerous since it hadn’t exploded all these years”, he insisted, before being pushed back by the deminers.

The Taliban government “is very supportive of demining in this country and wants to conduct clearance as far as it possibly can”, said Nick Pond, head of the Mine Action Section of UNAMA, the United Nations mission in Afghanistan.

North Atlantic Coast Fisheries 860).

Nor would it prevent the coastal State from assessing the scope of traditional fishing to determine, in good faith, the threshold of scale and technological development beyond which it would no longer accept that fishing by foreign nationals is traditional in nature.”

The Chinese Coast Guard is empowered, with the largest Coast Guard fleet in the world, legally to take on the full responsibility to maintain order at sea for all stakeholders. For example, protection of Scarborough Shoal’s lagoon fish sanctuary, fish breeding ground for the entire South China Sea.

The Philippines’ Tarriela has been pushing Filipino fishermen to breach and fish inside risking breeding grounds to pursue the “assertive transparency” of ex-USAF Col. Raymond Powell.

(Editor’s Note: Commodore Jay Tarriela, the Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, has emphasized the importance of information as a tool to deter China’s illegal reclamation activities in the WPS. , called

Demining began in Afghanistan as early as 1988 but, over decades of wars, the country has been re-infested with mines and ordnance.

“It is almost impossible at the moment to predict what the scale of current contamination is,” Pond told AFP.

Eighty-two percent of those killed or wounded by the remnant weapons since January 2023 were children, with half of cases involving children playing.

The village of Nokordak, nestled in a bucolic valley, lost two children in late April.

Surrounded by her small children, Shawoo told of how her 14-year-old son Javid was killed by unexploded ordnance.

Demining began in Afghanistan as early as 1988 but, over decades of wars, the country has been re-infested with mines and ordnance

“He threw a stone at it. He hit it once, then a second time. The third time, the device exploded.”

The boy died almost instantly.

The same explosion killed Javid’s friend Sakhi Dad, also 14.

“People said there were explosive ordnances around, but nothing like this had ever happened in the village before,” said Sakhi Dad’s 18-year-old brother, Mohammad Zakir, a lost look in his eyes.

on Filipinos to speak up, affirming the nation’s sovereignty and economic rights to the West Philippine Sea). No other South China Sea coastal state has the capacity of China to manage from the challenges of maintaining the ideal security, productivity and environmental conditions of the Common heritage as China. Be it from the threatening gunboat diplomacy of the Western Powers led by the US constituting the “Pivot to Asia” or the economic threat of impoverished coastal states’ fishermen in uncontrolled dynamite, cyanide and overfishing malpractices. China is the only SCS coastal state that has imposed an annual five-months fishing moratorium in the SCS for its fishing fleet from May to September; and the same is not imposed on the Vietnamese and Philippine fishing fleet. While the US propaganda outlets like the Asia Maritime Transparency Institute and US Filipino proxies like Tarriela slander China over “corals destruction,” the truth is since 2009, Chinese environmentalists have planted 120,000 to

“No one had come to the village to warn the children of the danger.” In Patanaye village, 50 kilometres away, 13-year-old Sayed showed his wounded hand and foot, still in bandages after the explosion in late April that killed his brother Taha, 11, as they were tending their sheep.

“Three, four times I pulled it from his hands. I was shouting at him but he kicked me and hit it on a rock,” Sayed told AFP. These kinds of accidents are all too common, said their father Siraj Ahmad. Tomorrow, “someone else’s son could be killed or handicapped for the rest of their life”, he said.

Zabto Mayar, Halo’s explosive ordnance disposal officer, said “lack of funds” was a major challenge their work.

So deminers work painstakingly plot by plot, depending on donations.

“The mine action workforce was once 15,500 people around 2011. It is currently 3,000,” said Pond.

Other global conflicts have pulled funding away, while Afghanistan has also seen donors pull back after the Taliban takeover, their government unrecognized by any other country.

But Mohammad Hassan, headmaster of a small school in the Deh Qazi hamlet, is still counting on the deminers.

“Even the schoolyard is dangerous for the children because it is not cleared of mines,” he said.

“We can’t even plant trees here. If we dig, if we bring a tractor or machines to work here, it is really dangerous,” he said.

Children in a classroom listened to a lesson aimed at preventing such accidents, the wall plastered with charts of mines or ordnance of all shapes and colors. AFP

150,000 corals, covering over 200,000 square meters of seabed of the SCS. While Tarriela and company constantly berate China over media alleging cyanide fishing by Chinese fishermen, a 2003 World Wildlife Fund report singles out the Philippines reporting, ”Cyanide fishing began in the 1960s in the Philippines to supply the international aquarium trade. But since the early 1980s, a much bigger business has emerged: supplying live reef fish for the restaurants...”

A 2018 New York Times reports says it all, “In the Philippines, dynamite fishing decimates Entire Oceans.”

The Procedure is also about a whole gamut of issues encompassing 16 chapters and 281 clauses. It includes principle, jurisdiction, supervision, inspection, case filing, evidence collection, which will help stakeholders around the SCS to appreciate the effort to put order into the conduct of all parties in the SCS engagement, hence promote fairness, goodwill and peaceful co-existence while strategic matters are ironed out through dialogue. (rpkapunan@gmail.com)

China warns of ‘war’ as drills encircle Taiwan

BEIJING – China said on Friday that Taiwan’s leadership was pushing the self-ruled island into war and warned of further “countermeasures,” as Beijing conducted military drills around the territory.

Chinese warships and fighter jets surrounded Taiwan on the second

day of drills that Beijing said were a test of its ability to seize the island, days after its new president was sworn in.

Beijing’s military kicked off the two-day war games Thursday morning, encircling democratic Taiwan with naval vessels and military aircraft as it vowed the blood of “independence forces” on the island would flow.

The exercises were launched three days after Lai Ching-te took office and made an inauguration speech that China denounced as a “confession of independence.”

Beijing’s defense ministry spokes-

Israel strikes Gaza as UN world court ruling due

PALESTINIAN Territories – Israeli forces struck the Gaza Strip on Friday, as the UN’s top court was due to rule on a plea to halt the military offensive over accusations of “genocide.”

On the ground in Gaza, witnesses and AFP correspondents reported overnight air and naval strikes on Gaza City and gunfire to its south, with several casualties reported in two separate raids on residential blocks in the city’s north and center. Israel in early May launched an assault on Rafah, the last city in Gaza to be entered by its ground troops, defying global opposition and sending more than 800,000 people fleeing, according to UN figures.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 306 - QUEZON CITY rtc1qzn306@judiciary.gov.ph 09760968624/ 8660-1763

PETITION FOR RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN

DIVORCE BASED ON ARTICLE 26 (2) OF THE FAMILY CODE AND CANCELLATION OF ENTRY IN THE CIVIL REGISTRY BASED ON RULE 108 OF THE RULES OF COURT, VERNALYN DIAZ MAJIMA, Petitioner, - versus- SPEC. PROC. CASE No. R-QZN-24-02236-SP

HARUHITO MAJIMA, PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY, the

obtained in Japan and the Cancellation of Entry in the Civil Registry under Rule 108 of the Revised Rules of Court. Petitioner alleges that she was married to respondent Haruhito Majima on December 13, 2019 in Yamato shi, Kanagawa ken, Japan. During their first year of marriage, everything seemed to be okay, However, during their second year, problems started to arise from their marriage. They never had time for each other because of work. If one of them was home, the other was out working. She also discovered that respondent Majima was a loud person - far from her impression when they first met. Respondent Majima was very strict and short-tempered. He would have ill comments about her on almost everything she did. Respondent Majima also did not want her to work eventhough he was not keen in supporting her. There came a point that there was no more communication between the two of them. Respondent Majima would just answer questions thrown at him, nothing more. At this stage, she has had enough of the misery respondent Majima caused her. With everything that transpired, she told respondent Majima that she could not take more of his behavior. She then initiated to file for divorce. On July 13, 2023, the Notification of Divorce was filed at the Office of Mayor of Yamato City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan Consequently, a Certificate of Acceptance was issued by the same Office. The divorce of petitioner and respondent which was done pursuant to Japanese laws was eventually registered under the “Family Register of Haruhito Majima”. WHEREFORE, finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on August 28, 2024, at 1:30 in the afternoon before this Court located at Room 703, 7th

consecutive weeks in an accredited newspaper of general circulation throughout the Philippines. Likewise, at the expense of the petitioner, let a copy of the Petition with its Annexes and this Order be furnished to the Office of the Solicitor General, Office of the City Prosecutor, Office of the Local Civil Registrar of

“We’re not smashing into Rafah; we’re operating carefully and precisely,” Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari said.

In a statement Friday, the Israeli army said its “troops are continuing operations against terror targets” in the southern city, where they had “destroyed weapon storage facilities” and tunnel shafts. AFP

man Wu Qian said on Friday Lai “has seriously challenged the oneChina principle... pushing our compatriots in Taiwan into a perilous situation of war and danger”.

“Every time ‘Taiwan independence’ provokes us, we will push our countermeasures one step further, until the complete reunification of the motherland is achieved,” he said.

The drills are part of an escalating campaign of intimidation by China in which it has carried out a series of large-scale military exercises around Taiwan in recent years.

They are testing the “capability of

joint seizure of power, joint strikes and control of key territories”, Li Xi, spokesman for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command, said on Friday. China, which split with Taiwan at the end of a civil war 75 years ago, regards the island as a renegade province with which it must eventually be reunified.

The dispute has long made the Taiwan Strait one of the world’s most dangerous flashpoints, and this week’s events have stoked fears that China may use military force to bring the island under mainland rule. AFP

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 216, QUEZON CITY 0916-230-30-34; 8-681-5664; rtc1qzn216@judiciary.gov.ph MARlCHELLE LEE LISTER, Petitioner, - versus- R-QZN-24-01861-SP For: Recognition of Foreign Divorce CHRISTOPHER

EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES IN SINGAPORE and THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, Respondents. x-----------------------------------------------------x ORDER The petitioner, Marichelle Lee Lister, through counsel, filed a verified petition for recognition of foreign divorce. The petitioner and respondent Christopher Robert Lister, a United Kingdom citizen, met during socials at Tokyo in 2007 and after a year and a half they got married on 7 April 2009 and lived as husband and wife. In 2019, the respondent has a change of heart as he filed a divorce against the petitioner at the Family Court at Bury St., Edmunds in England on the ground of unreasonable behavior which was granted on 13 February 2019 (Apostilled Decree Nisi certified by Solicitor Gerard P. Davis); then, on 1 April 2019, the same court issued a Decree

IN BRIEF

Ex-PM’s brother fined $296,000 for libel

SINGAPORE – A Singapore court ordered former prime minister Lee Hsien Loong’s brother on Friday to pay $296,000 in damages to two top ministers after his libelous accusations caused a scandal in the city-state. Lee Hsien Yang’s defamatory Facebook post related to a controversy over the rental of sprawling colonial bungalows by the foreign affairs and law ministers, who have both been cleared of any wrongdoing following two investigations.

Lee, 66, is living overseas after fleeing Singapore two years ago, claiming political persecution by the government of then-prime minister Lee Hsien Loong, his older brother.

The allegations he made about the prime properties located in leafy suburbs sparked an outcry in the city-state, where most of the population live in government-built high-rise apartments.

“I find that the defendant knew that the offending words were false, that he published them recklessly, and/or without considering or caring whether they are true or not,” High Court Judge Goh Yihan said Friday in announcing the amount of damages. Goh ordered Lee to pay Sg$200,000 ($148,000) in damages to each of the two politicians -- Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam. AFP

Russia says Islamic State behind concert hall attack

MOSCOW, Russia – Russia on Friday said for the first time that the Islamic State group coordinated the March concert hall assault in Moscow, the country’s deadliest terror attack in two decades. IS has claimed responsibility on multiple occasions for the March 22 attack which killed over 140 people, but Moscow has repeatedly tried to link Ukraine and the West to the attack.

WHEREFORE, finding the petition to be sufficient in form and substance, it is hereby sets for hearing on 19 June 2024 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning, in the sala of this Court, Room 603 Hall of Justice Building Annex, Quezon City Hall Compound, Quezon City, at which date, time and place, all interested parties are hereby required to appear and show cause why the said petition should not be granted. Let a copy of this Order be served to the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) and published at the expense of the petitioner in a newspaper

FSB chief Alexander Bortnikov was quoted as saying by the RIA Novosti news agency that “preparations, the financing, the attack and the retreat of the terrorists were coordinated via the internet by members of Khorasan Province,” an IS branch active in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Bortnikov did not discard the Ukrainian angle in his statements on Friday, saying that “upon completing the attack, the terrorists received clear instructions to move toward the Ukrainian border, where from the other side a ‘window’ had been prepared for them”.

“The investigation continues, but it can already be said with certainty that Ukrainian military intelligence is directly implicated in the attack,” he said.

Ukraine has repeatedly denied involvement.

Gunmen in camouflage stormed the Crocus City Hall venue on the outskirts of Moscow before setting the building on fire.

More than a dozen suspects have been arrested including the four assailants, who are all from the Central Asian nation of Tajikistan, an impoverished former Soviet republic on Afghanistan’s northern border. AFP

Japan, S. Korea announce sanctions over arms deals TOKYO – Japan and South Korea on Friday announced separate sanctions packages targeting companies, vessels, or individuals allegedly involved in supplying North Korean weapons to Russia for use in Ukraine, in violation of UN resolutions. South Korea accuses Pyongyang of sending thousands of containers of munitions to Russia, and experts have said Pyongyang’s recent testing spree may be of weapons destined for use on battlefields in Ukraine. In August, the US Treasury Department imposed similar sanctions as it said Russia was using up munitions and losing

SPORTS

Bossong reaches US NCAA 800-m finals

By Peter Atencio

VICTORIA Bossong overcame two minor struggles as she made it to the finals of the US NCAA Division 1 Track and Field Championships Eastern Championships’ first round.

Battling food poisoning days before her race, along with a painful wisdom tooth, the 21-year-old Bossong recovered in time, finishing second in the women’s 800-meter heats with a clocking of two minutes and 4.01 seconds.

Her time surpassed the recognized Philippine national record of Jessica Barnard at 2:06.75 during the 2016 Portland Track Festival in Oregon.

Bossong, a third year Harvard University student-athlete, was behind heat 1 top qualifier Lauren Tolbert of Duke University, who made it in 2:03.82.

“Going into heats, the main goal was to survive and advance. I made sure to situate myself in the front part of the pack, and around 550m to go, I took off and kept it smooth,” said Bossong in an interview with the Manila Standard.

Cassandra Williamson of the University of West Virginia also qualified to the finals in 2:04.25.

Two weeks ago, Bossong ran in the Philippines for the first time in the 2024 ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships and took the gold in the women’s 800-meter run in Pasig, days before her birthday.

Despite finishing in one of her slow times this season, Bossong reached the finish line at two minutes and 9.56 seconds to earn the gold medal.

Bossong, whose mom Annie is a dentist who traces her roots in Puerto Galera in Mindoro Oriental, is seeking to someday join the Philippine national team, and probably hit the entry standard in the Paris Olympics during her campaign this year.

Eala misses chance to advance to main draw

ALEX

Eala came out empty-handed on her 19th birthday.

Eala missed a chance to make history when she lost to Julia Riera of Argentina, 4-6, 7-6 (3), 6-4, in the last round of the French Open qualifiers on Thursday at the Roland Garros Stadium in Paris.

With her victory, Riera became one of the 16 qualifiers, who advanced to the main draw, which will see 19 out of the top 20 players in the world competing for honors at the famed red clay courts of Roland Garros,

Eala struggled to hold on to her serve in the ninth game of the last set, allowing Riera to take the next two games and win the match. In the second set, Riera leaped to a 5-1 lead in the tiebreak, giving her enough leeway to win the set, 7-6 (3), and extend the match to a decider.

Overall, the world No. 160 Eala had better first serve percentage (75% vs 59%).

Eala also committed just two double faults, which happened in the third set. So far, Eala has earned a total of $82,873 during the course of professional career this year.

Before France, Eala was in Zagreb, reaching the round of 32 of a $60,000 W75 tournament. Peter Atencio

Constantino edges Villacencio in playo

HARMIE Constantino continued her impressive streak at the Villamor Golf Club, reinforcing her status as the top player on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour by successfully defending her ICTSI Ladies Villamor Philippine Masters crown in a hard-fought battle against Gretchen Villacencio, ultimately winning on the second playoff hole on Friday.

Despite encountering setbacks with an errant drive and a mishit on their third return to the par-5 18th, Constantino resiliently salvaged a bogey then watched Villacencio crack under pressure, missing a crucial bogey putt from three feet, resulting in a costly threeputt double-bogey.

Reflecting on her performance, Constantino acknowledged the challenges of the day, recognizing areas where she could improve.

“I didn’t play my best today and my score reflects that. It’s a reminder that

there’s always room for improvement,” she said after pulling off a thriller of a win worth P101,250.

Her dominance seemed assured until a series of bogeys from the 13th hole tightened the competition.

Two flights ahead of the championship group, Villacencio posted an eagle-aided 70 to finish at six-over 222, creating a tense tie at the top of the leaderboard.

“I wasn’t aware Gretchen was at six-over, so my final putt for par was crucial. I knew I had to make it to

force the playoff,” said Constantino, highlighting the strategic pressure of her last putt.

Both parred the first playoff hole. Grateful for her family’s support, Constantino, 22, credited her victory to their unwavering encouragement. “My mom, dad, and especially my sister Mikhaella played crucial roles in this win,” she acknowledged.

Having her sister on her bag also proved invaluable, balancing Harmie’s aggressive style with Mikhaella’s more cautious approach, contributing to their successful partnership.

Despite the challenges faced during the final round, Constantino remained optimistic. “Even with the setbacks, I kept believing I could bounce back,” she affirmed, demonstrating her determination and resilience in securing another prestigious title on the tour organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. following her victories at Palos Verdes and Caliraya Springs. What was headed into a runaway

triumph turned into a test of will and character for Constantino. With a series of composed pars, she surged ahead by three strokes at the turn as second round co-leaders Pauline del Rosario and Florence Bisera faltered with shaky starts.

Playing virtually pressure-free on the final nine holes, Constantino extended her lead to five with a birdie on No. 12. But a four-bogey slide from No. 13 set the stage for a nerve-wracking finish as Villacencio charged back with a two-under card.

Villacencio settled for second and received P67,500, while del Rosario missed joining the playoff with a 76 for a 233 worth P60,000.

Seoyun Kim placed fourth with a 77 and a 225 followed by Mikha Fortuna (77-226), while Bisera skied to an 81 and wound up at joint sixth at 228 with Chihiro Ikeda, who finished with a 76. The victory was particularly sweet for Constantino, marking her third win at Villamor, having previously won the ICTSI Match Play Invitational in 2022 and edging out Chihiro Ikeda by two strokes last year. Beyond her familiarity with the course, where she honed her skills, it was Constantino’s unwavering resolve, poise and short game that truly set her apart. She overcame errant drives and wayward shots and a harrowing stretch-run struggle to emerge on top again.

Roaring finish propels Rho back to the top of PH Masters

HYUN Ho Rho soared back to the top of the ICTSI Villamor Philippine Masters in dramatic fashion, delivering a stunning 68 in a roller-coaster third round in Pasay City on Friday.

OLYMPIC-BOUND Fil-Ivorian fencer

Maxine Esteban and sportswear giant ANTA further strengthened their bond by renewing their partnership in an intimate contract signing event at the ANTA Office in Mandaluyong City on Thursday, May 23.

Esteban, who was with the sportswear brand ever since her colorful days with Ateneo in the UAAP, will continue to become the local ambassador, joining the growing roster of ANTA athletes in the country.

ANTA Philippines general manager JP Paglinawan underscored Esteban’s world class talent, very driven attitude and passion for the sport which he believed the 23-year-old wunderkind shared with the brand, making it a nobrainer of a decision in keeping her with the ANTA family.

“She’s a world-class athlete. The

Rho’s resurgence, punctuated by a tap-in eagle on No. 18, saw him back in control at 210 in the fiercely contested third round of the P2 million championship where the lead frequently changed hands over the final nine holes at the Villamor Golf Club.

Halfway leader Ryan Monsalve looked poised to defend his lead, showcasing grit against a formidable field, including seasoned pro Angelo Que. However, a costly three-bogey stretch starting at the 14th hole derailed his momentum, igniting a chaotic scramble for supremacy.

Under the blazing sun, Rho emerged back as the frontrunner at six-under overall, thanks to a thrilling birdie-eagle finish. His one-stroke advantage over Que, who holed out with a birdie for a 70 and a 211, sets the stage for a nail-biting final round battle for the top P345,000 purse.

“My tee shots today (Friday) were really straight and I putted the ball quite well. I made a few bogeys on the back nine, but I managed to finish strong,” said Rho, reflecting on his round. On the final hole, he hit a drive to the right, but luck was on his side as the ball struck a tree and bounced back into the middle of the fairway.

partnership we started last 2022 and we are renewing it today not because she’s going to the Olympics but because we always believed in her ability, in her jive, in her passion for the sport,” said Paglinawan.

“We see the brand sharing the same values as Maxine. We see Anta as a world class sports industry product and it’s very fitting that we have Maxine to represent the brand in the Olympics,” he added.

For Esteban, the signing goes beyond an endorsement deal but rather a renewal of ANTA’s confidence, trust and pride in her abilities.

“They believed in me from the very start since I had nothing. and I’m very thankful for everything that they have done for me. It’s not only a renewal of contract but a renewal of confidence and trust in me,” said Esteban.

From 256 yards out, Rho executed a high draw with a 3-wood, landing the ball within two off the hole. Looking ahead to the final 18 holes and his pursuit of a first championship, the 2022 PGT Q-School topnotcher hinted at a more conservative approach. “As much as I like to play aggressively, I’m just going to enjoy the moment. Regardless of the outcome, I’ll accept it, but I’ll give my best and enjoy the game,” said the 19-year-old Rho, who initially surged to the top with a hole-in-one fueled 67 Wednesday, only to stumble with a 75 in the second round. Que, who had matched Monsalve’s two-under card after eight holes, slipped from the lead with miscues on Nos. 9 and 11. But he rallied with birdies on two of the last six holes, including the 18th, to save a two-under card, putting him just one stroke behind the Korean.

Lloyd Go, initially four strokes behind Monsalve, stumbled with an early bogey on the third hole but roared back with five birdies to card a 68, tying him at third at 212 with Daiya Suzuki, who matched the day’s best four-under par round. This sets up what could be the most unpredictable, exciting climax in this year’s Philippine Golf Tour.

Esteban will be decked out in ANTA fencing footwear when she takes on the best fencers of the world in the Olympics after earning a direct qualification by becoming the top fencer in the singles women’s foil in the African continental zone. ANTA is keen on expanding Esteban’s ambassadorship to the global role especially now that she’s holding a very unique position where she can make an impact and provide inspiration for future athletes in the two countries –the Ivory Coast and the Philippines – that she is representing.

Hyun Ho Rho Manny Marcelo

Harmie Constantino kisses her championship trophy after ruling the ICTSI Ladies Villamor Philippine Masters. Manny Marcelo ANTA

Manager JP Paglinawan

Victoria Bossong

SATURDAY, MAY 25, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Eugene Torre Cup draws 360 chessers

THE Knights of Columbus holds the Nationwide Youth Chess Tournament 2024 dubbed “2nd Eugene Torre Cup” unfurling this weekend at the Gateway Mall 2 Activity Center in Cubao.

A total of 360 participants are seeing action in this two-day meet and battle each other in rapid and blitz in four age categories—18 and under boys and girls, 15 and under boys and girls, 12 and under boys and girls and nine and under boys and girls.

Organized and sanctioned by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines, a total cash purse worth P300,000 plus trophies, medals and certificates will be given away to winners.

The event, which is backed by FIDE, Eugene Torre Chess Museum and Philippine Arbiters Chess Confederation, Inc., is also aimed at producing future talents in the molds of Torre, who owns the distinction as Asia’s very first Grandmaster.

“That’s the goal, to produce future champions and Grandmasters,” said NCFP chief executive officer GM Jayson Gonzales.

Also gracing today’s opener are NCFP chairman/president Prospero Pichay, Jr., former Senator Gringo Honasan, Department of Human Settlements and Urban secretary Jerry Acuzar and former Congressman Mat Defensor.

Ivan Travis Cu, a 15-yearold National Master, topped the premier boys 18-under section in the first edition of this event staged last year at the Robinson’s Galleria in Pasig.

Paalam, 3 others launch bids in Olympic qualifier

THE quest for additional Olympic berths to the Paris Summer Games begins for four Filipino boxers, with 2020 Tokyo Olympiad silver medalist Carlo Paalam leading the charge in Bangkok, Thailand.

The winner in the second World Olympic Qualifying Tournament will join early qualifiers worldwide, including Tokyo bronze medal winner Eumir Felix Marcial, Tokyo silver medal winner Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas.

Paalam drew Greece’s Alexeir Lagkazasvili in the 57kg men’s division on May 24, with bouts on May 28, 30, 31 and June 1 and 2, if necessary.

On May 25, Rogen Ladon takes on Rafael Serrano Lozano of Spain in

the 51kg class, with succeeding fights on May 30 and 31, and June 2.

Criztian Pitt Laurente climbs the ring in the 63.5 kg category on May 26 against Kazakhstan’s Mukhammedsabyr Bazarbay Uulu, needing a win to stay in contention for bouts on May 28, 29 and 31, and June 1 and 2. On Day 4 of competition, Hergie Bacyadan gets her chance against Spain’s Dunia Mas Martinez in the 75kg division, with next bouts scheduled on June 1 and 2.

Don Abnett, the Olympic coach-

Vietnam goes 3-0 in Asian Volleyball tilt for women

VIETNAM was relentless in defending its crown by staving off a tall Kazakhstan squad in four sets, 25-14, 25-19, 14-25, 25-23, to stay unbeaten in the Asian Volleyball Confederation Challenge Cup for Women on Friday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Opposite spiker Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen racked up 30 points—26 on attacks—three blocks and one service ace—to help the Vietnamese top Pool B with a 3-0 won-lost card.

The Vietnamese opened its bid by beating Singapore, 25-8, 29-27, 25-10, and Hong Kong, 25-13, 25-17, 25-16, earlier in the tournament organized by the Philippine National Vollyball Federation headed by Ramon “Tats” Suzara and supported by Meralco, PLDT, Smart, Akari, AyalaLand, Nuvali, Foton, POC, PSC, Mikasa, Senoh, Asics, Maynilad, Makati Shangri-La, Rebisco, Cignal, OneSports, OneSports+ and PilipinasLive.

“We really didn’t have a game against Kazakhstan for a long time, like six years,” team captain Tranh Thi Thanh Thuy said. “This time, they are really tall and strong, so they are a little bit intimidating.”

“But our team did pretty well today. I’m very proud,” she added.

ing consultant of the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP), said Ladon and Bacyadan are in a “good draw.”

ABAP secretary general Marcus Manalo agreed.

“I think we had a good draw overall,” Manalo said. “Pitt Laurente has the most challenging route since his first bout is against a Kazakh. But I fully believe in his capability to get it done.”

The ABAP executive said Paalam “will need to win 5 bouts to secure an Olympic quota, but he is more than ready for it.”

Ladon needs four wins to earn passage and Bacyadan three, said Manalo.

“As I’ve expressed before, these four have very good chance of qualifying here in Bangkok,” he added.

The Vietnamese go for a sweep of Pool B if against Indonesia on Sunday at 10 a.m.

“With all the players we have now, we are confident to take the championship because now we have a good connection,” Thuy said. Iran rallied past Chinese-Taipei, 24-26, 25-20, 25-18, 28-26, to go 1-1 in Pool A also on Friday and bounce back from its 17-25, 23-25, 21-25 loss to India on opening day.

Aytak Salamat delivered 23 points, 22 on attacks, and Shadehsari Poorsaleh had 18 kills for Iran, which faces host Philippines on Saturday at 7 p.m.

“It was necessary to keep calm,” skipper Dorsa Fallahkordkhel said. “We don’t have enough experience last time but now that we’re in our second match, so we watched their movements and we listened to all that coach.”

if

Perpetual shoots for 4-peat, 14th

overall NCAA volley title

By Dennis Abrina

WITHOUT any hesitation, the defending champion Perpetual Altas Spikers go for the kill against their challengers Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals in Game 2 of the National Collegiate Athletics Association Season 99 best-of-three volleyball championship on Sunday at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.

The Altas spikers outsmarted the Generals in a 4-set victory at the start of their championship showdown last Sunday, vowing a no let-up a pproach in their bid to finish the series in Game 2 and achieve a “4-peat” for the Las Piñas Citybased educational institution.

The Altas of multi-titled coach Sinfronio ‘Sammy’ Acaylar, who scored a 24-26, 25-20, 27-25, 25-19 win to zero in on their 14th overall title since joining the league 40 years ago, will battle with the players of coach Rod Palmero

of the Generals at 12 noon, hoping to duplicate the championship feat of the Junior Altas Girls, who swept the Arellano University Lady Braves in their own finals in two games.

Acaylar’s players will be carrying their championship experience against the Generals, who are in their first finals’ appearance in nine years.

Reigning Most Valuable Player Louie Ramirez posted a double-double record of 23 points and 23 receptions, Jefferson Marapoc contributed 20 points and 27 digs, while setter JC Enarciso had 7 points (3 service aces, 2 attacks and 2 blocks).

“What we have in mind is that we have to finish (them) in Game 2. Huwag na paabutin ng do-or-die Game 3,” said Ramirez. Graduating players Ramirez, Enarciso, Michael Medalla, libero John Philip Pepito and Paul Teodoro also want to give honor to their alma mater in their last playing year.

Vietnamese tossers celebrate after scoring a point against a tall Kazakhstan squad in the Asian Volleyball

Confederation Challenge Cup for Women on Friday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Michael Medalla of the defending champion Perpetual Altas blows his fingers as

they are a ‘smokin’ gun.’ Dennis Abrina

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Leyte Provincial Office, in partnership with the Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) and Robinsons North Tacloban, holds the Inexplorada Fashion Show, highlighting contemporary and curated creations of fashion design students on May 21, 2024. The one-day fashion show aims to showcase unique fashion pieces of young designers from EVSU and serves as a platform to gain exposure and receive feedback from the public, which is crucial for their professional growth and development as they prepare to enter the competitive fashion industry.

AIIB’s financing for BCIB

First tranche of the loan

$1.1 billion $350 million 32 kilometers

Length of the bridge

AIIB approves $1.1-b loan for Bataan-Cavite bridge

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) said Friday it approved a funding of up to $1.14 billion for the construction of the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge (BCIB) across Manila Bay.

The BCIB project is structured following a multi-tranche approach, with the first tranche amounting to $350 million. Spanning a distance of 32.15 kilometers, the project was designed to provide strategic convergence points between Central Luzon and Calabarzon, fostering greater economic growth and improved tourism.

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Friday the construction of the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) reached nearly 70-percent completion as of April 2024. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the overall progress of MRT-7 was at 69.86 percent as of April 2024.

“I saw the full speed construction, and I’m very happy that they are completing the Quezon City leg of MRT-7 which will be operational at the end of 2025,” Bautista said.

“I am very much impressed with how San Miguel Infrastructure has constructed all the facilities, and I’m sure with all your help and hard work we should be able to open this Quezon City leg of MRT-7,” he said.

Bautista said the MRT-7 project could serve 300,000 passengers in its first year of operation.

The trip from Quezon City to San Jose Del Monte in Bulacan will only take 35 minutes, a dramatic reduction from two to three hours of travel time at present. San Miguel Corp., the proponent of the MRT-7 project, secured a P100-billion syndicated loan agreement with a consortium of major Philippine banks to fund the project.

Members of the consortium are BDO Unibank Inc., Philippine National Bank (PNB), Bank of Commerce (BankCom), Security Bank and the Government Service Insurance System. Lead arrangers and bookrunners for the transaction are BDO Capital & Investment Corp., PNB Capital and Investment Corp., SB Capital Investment Corp. and BankCom-Investment Banking Group.

The Marcos administration identified MRT-7, which runs from Quezon City to San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan, as one of 194 high-impact infrastructure flagship projects under the “Build Better, More” program. MRT-7 will have 14 stations at Quezon North Ave. Joint Station; Quezon Memorial Circle; University Ave.; Tandang Sora; Don Antonio; Batasan; Manggahan; Dona Carmen; Regalado; Mindanao Ave.; Quirino; Sacred Heart; Tala; and San Jose del Monte.

vironmental impact,” said Misra. AIIB is a Beijing-based multilateral development bank whose mission is to finance infrastructure projects.

Established in January 2016, it has since grown to 109 approved members worldwide.

This marks a milestone support to the Marcos administration’s “Build Better More” program encouraging enhanced connectivity and promoting sustainable infrastructure development within the Greater Manila Area.

“By prioritizing climate-resilient infrastructure and leveraging technology, we aim to not only enhance connectivity but also contribute to the region’s economic development while mitigating and adapting to en-

“The approval of the AIIB loan for the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge project signifies a significant step towards realizing our vision of fostering inclusive and sustainable growth within the Greater Manila Area,” said Rajat Misra, AIIB acting vice president for investment operations (Region 1).

The project is expected to reduce travel time from Mariveles, Bataan to Naic, Cavite from five hours to 1.5 hours and promote greater ease in doing business by unlocking the potential of Bataan and Cavite in facilitating trade and serving as viable tourist destinations.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MAHARLIKA Investment Corp.

(MIC), which manages the Philippines’ first sovereign wealth fund, plans to invest in building transmission lines to support the power supply in the island grids.

“Maharlika will be focused on lines, just in the transmission lines. We do not see ourselves investing in the generation side or the distribution side because theoretically when these assets we’re currrently helping build gets connected to the transmission grid, then we will be restricted from

By Othel V. Campos

VIETNAMESE electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer VinFast is setting its sights on regional expansion, with the Philippines as its latest target market.

Driven by the immense potential of the Philippine EV market, VinFast leveraged its expansion to become a major player in Southeast Asia’s burgeoning EV industry.

“Many people ask why Vingroup created VinFast. We do it because we feel the need to contribute to society, not just to do business. A large, successful enterprise with certain capabilities has a duty to contribute to

investing in either,” MIC president and chief executive Rafael Consing Jr. said.

Consing said during the signing of a partnership agreement with the National Electrification Administration and the Palawan Electric Cooperative (PALECO) that investments are needed more in the transmission development for island grids.

“Also if you look at where investments in the energy sector is most required, it is in lines because there is significant amount of capital that are already interested in developing the generation side, and there is already

its homeland,” said VinFast founder Pham Nhat Vuong. The company said the Philippines offers a promising market for electric vehicles given its large population and growing demand for sustainable transportation. The country also holds a strategic advantage as the world’s second-largest supplier of nickel, a key component in EV battery cells.

VinFast, established in 2017, is a subsidiary of Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest conglomerate. It holds the distinction of being Vietnam’s first domestic automaker and a pioneer in the country’s electric vehicle revolution.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista inspects the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) depot at Station 6 (Batasan Station) in Quezon City.

a significant amount of capital in improving the distribution side. Therefore, we want to be able to make a difference, by focusing only on building island grids,” Consing said.

NEA administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Consing and PALECO general manager Rez Contrivida at the NEA office in Quezon City.

A representative for Palawan 2nd District Rep. Jose Alvarez and National Transmission Corp. (TransCo) president Fortunato Leynes also signed the document as witnesses.

MOTORISTS plying the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) may face another toll increase as the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) received applications from their operators for adjustment.

TRB executive director Alvin Carullo said NLEX Corp.’s petition for toll adjustment will be discussed during the agency’s board meeting this month.

“Possible [the toll hike] within this coming month because the NLEX application for the second tranche is in advanced stage. It is under review by the TRB secretariat right now. We can submit this [at] May 2024 board meeting,” Carullo said.

“It is the same as the first tranche. The toll increase was divided into two equal, 50 percent in 2023 and 50 percent in 2024,” he said.

The TRB authorized NLEX in June 2023 to implement an additional P7 toll hike in the open system and P0.36 per kilometer in the closed system.

The new rates were part of the authorized NLEX periodic adjustments due 2012, 2014, 2018 and 2020.

Carullo said the TRB also received a petition from SMC SLEX to increase the toll at SLEX. Darwin G. Amojelar

Stocks decline on negative cues from Wall Street

PHILIPPINE stocks ended the week in the red on negative cues from Wall Street.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index plummeted by 40.10 points, or 0.60 percent, to close at 6,619.89, while the broader all-shares index shed 13.80 points, or 0.39 percent, to settle at 3,523.49.

Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said Philippine shares took a breather after the Dow Jones dropped 1.53 percent, its worst session since March 2023. Limlingan said the US market’s decline was largely due to the release of the US Federal Reserve minutes which showed “heightened concerns among policy markers about the slow progress in curbing inflation.”

He said profit-taking also contributed to the market’s decline even as the Philippine peso closed within the 58-level range to a dollar. The peso closed at 58.19 against the greenback, weaker than Thursday’s 58.13. Net value turnover reached P3.90 billion, lower than the month-to-date average of P4.93 billion.

Most sectoral indices ended in the red territory, led by property which dropped 2.39 percent, followed by mining and oil which went down by 1.72 percent. Only the services sector ended in the green, rising by 0.48 percent.

Other markets also fell in Asia and Europe on Friday, tracking a sell-off on Wall Street sparked by a string of better-than-expected US data that added to worries the Federal Reserve will hold off on cutting interest rates this year.

A weeks-long rally in equities has petered out in the past few days on profit-taking and as central bank officials pushed back against bets on an early reduction.

Confidence was dealt a further blow Thursday as a closely watched gauge of the services sector showed services activity rose at its fastest pace in a year, while the factory sector also beat forecasts.

Meanwhile, fewer people than estimated made unemployment claims, suggesting the labor market remains tight.

The readings indicated the world’s top economy was still in rude health, quelling the excitement sparked by last week’s news that the consumer price index slowed in April after three months of topping forecasts.

“The data erase some of the cooling signals in recent outcomes and contrast the month-long run of broader US data tending to surprise on the soft side,” said Taylor Nugent of National Australia Bank.

The figures came after minutes from the Fed’s May policy decision showed decision-makers wanted to keep borrowing costs elevated until they are confident prices are under control, while some even said they were willing to hike again.

B. Austria with AFP

Jenniffer

Big Bad Wolf PH taps SM’s 2GO as logistics partner

BIG Bad Wolf Philippines tapped 2GO Group Inc. as its logistics partner for the country’s largest book sale.

“We are proud to partner with Big Bad Wolf to help reignite interest in books and promote reading especially among Filipino children and young adults,” 2GO forwarding business unit head Faye Alonzo said. The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale will be open from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. daily, from May 24 to June 2, at Parqal Mall in Parañaque City.

2GO Group is the largest point-topoint transportation and logistics provider in the country. At its core are five business units including 2GO Sea Solutions, 2GO Special Containers and Value-Added Services (SCVASI), 2GO Express, 2GO Forwarding and 2GO Logistics.

A part of SM Investments Corp., 2GO offers multimodal transportation, warehousing and inventory management, special containers, and project logistics as well as e-commerce logistics, including last-mile deliveries and express courier deliveries.

It also provides sea travel and a wide range of peripheral logistics such as freight forwarding, import and export processing, and customs brokerage. Darwin G. Amojelar

Filinvest’s crowdfunding unit starts winding down operations

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said it teamed up with law enforcement to halt the importation of devices used for SMS spoofing, a scam where fraudsters trick users into receiving fake messages disguised as legitimate senders. Globe general counsel Froilan Castelo underscored the need to strengthen enforcement to stop incidents of spoofing, where fraudsters send malicious texts to SIMs in a particular area in the guise of legitimate sender IDs using devices called the inter-

national mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) catcher.

These portable devices are imported to the Philippines either in full or in parts for assembly, then used for illegal activities.

IMSI catchers can be carried around on foot or inside vehicles to target SIMs in a certain area and force them to downgrade to 2G, the old cellular network technology for voice calls and texts.

Fraudsters are able to send malicious SMS to phones connected to their fake cell tower, appearing to be

legitimate.

“We are working with the government to prevent the importation and use of IMSI catchers, which are the primary tools enabling these security breaches. We need more robust enforcement of the law concerning spoofing and the proliferation of this illegal equipment,” Castelo said.

He said there is a need for urgent action amid the rising number of spoofing incidents where fraudsters impersonate legitimate and trusted sender IDs.

This makes it difficult for mobile users to detect that they were already

By Jenniffer B. Austria

INVESTREE Philippines

Inc., a crowdfunding firm owned by Investree Singapore Pte. Ltd. and Filinvest Development Corp. (FDC), is winding down its operations three years after it launched in the country.

Crowdfunding is a fundraising activity typically conducted through an online platform for startups and small and medium enterprises.

FDC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Friday Investree Philippines would apply for the shortening of its corporate term to September 30, 2025.

“Investree PH is working diligently to facilitate a smooth transition following due process in accordance with SEC [Securities and Exchange] regulations. All its stakeholders, including investors, SME partners and employees, are being properly informed,” FDC said.

“The company will continue to facilitate the payment of notes according to the terms and conditions of its agreements. Investree PH expresses its gratitude to its stakeholders for their trust and support,” it said.

Investree Philippines is the first crowdfunding intermediary and funding portal registered with the SEC since the rules and regulations covering crowdfunding took effect in July 2019. It operates as a lending-based crowdfunding platform whose crowdfunding activities involve banks or qualified buyers as lenders, and small, medium and emerging enterprises (SMEs) as borrowers.

Globe teams up with law enforcement to combat SMS spoofing SteelAsia exports P1.80-b

ACEN raises YMP Telecom credit to P466m to fund energy projects

By Alena Mae S. Flores

held by Yoma Micro Power (S) Pte. Ltd. in each of these companies.

ACEN is acquiring the shares of the said companies for the purpose of building and operating solar-powered solutions for telecommunication towers and commercial and industrial solar power solutions in the Philippines.

ACEN earlier announced its proposed joint venture with the Norwegian Investment Fund and investment into Yoma Micro Power.

Yoma Micro Power installs and maintains solar and solar-hybrid power plants for telecom companies. It has powered more than 600 telecom towers with reliable and cost-effective renewable energy.

By Othel V. Campos

COMPOSTELA, Cebu—SteelAsia

Manufacturing Corp. said Thursday it exported P1.8 billion worth of highstrength steel bars to a Canadian railway system based in Vancouver.

“We really plan to maximize the opportunity to export steel now that we know there is huge demand from foreign buyers. To date, I think we’ve had 6 shipments to Canada already,” the company said before a media plant tour to its newest reinforcement bar (rebar) facility in this town.

The Compostela plant is the second manufacturing facility of SteelAsia in Cebu.

SteelAsia said it exported 35,000 metric tons (MT) of steel to Canada.

The latest shipment with a value of P300 million brought its total exports to P1.8 billion so far. The company made five shipments worth P1.32 bil-

being duped.

“SMS spoofing is already criminalized under the Cybercrime Prevention Act. So we are actively coordinating with law enforcement agencies to ensure the arrest of these spoofers,” Castelo said.

Reports of spoofing have seen a rise among mobile phone users as Globe has tightened the noose on scam and spam SMS through stricter blocking, including filtering out all person-toperson SMS with links and enforcing stringent regulations on app-to-person SMS with URLs.

lion in 2023.

SteelAsia chief executive Ben Yao said the steel bars were produced using green steel production methods. The company has been using geothermal energy to recycle steel scrap into high-value, infrastructure-grade steel bars.

The technology not only supports the Philippines’ infrastructure program but also promotes sustainability in steel production.

Yao said his vision is for the Philippines to have its own integrated steel industry that is capable of supporting big industries like automobile, airplane and ships manufacturing, appliances production as well as the construction and housing sectors.

The company is in an expansion mode to modernize and add more product lines to support the country’s steel requirement for infrastructure and industrial applications.

TOURISM CARAVAN. Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco leads the opening of the Philippine Experience Program (PEP) in the Northern Mindanao region on May 23, 2024 in Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental. Frasco emphasized during her visit that the PEP’s goal is to reintroduce emerging destinations in the country, including areas in Northern Mindanao, to equalize tourism opportunities.

GREEN AIRPORT. Aboitiz GMCAC (AGMCAC) chief executive Athanasios Titonis (second from left) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) assistant general manager Glenn Napuli (third from left) receive the Level 1 certificate for Airport Carbon Accreditation. MCIA secured the Platinum Green Airport Award 2024 by the Airports Council International (ACI), becoming the first Filipino airport to receive both distinctions. MCIA is operated by a Filipino-led private consortium of Aboitiz InfraCapital, GMR Group of India and Megawide Construction Corp. under a concession agreement with the government.

Alsons investing P1b in 13-ha. residential estate in Sarangani

By Joel Lacsamana

NARRA Park Residences, Alsons Development and Investment Corp.’s 13-hectare mixed-use estate in Alabel, Sarangani is gradually taking shape with over 80 houses and the 1,800-square-meter Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex (APSSC) rising over what was once thickly foliaged grazing land.

Dev announced that it is in-

DTI releases P2.7-b financial assistance to

Visayas MSMEs

By Othel V. Campos

CEBU CITY—Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual underscored the magnitude of financial assistance the agency has released to the Visayas’ micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) amounting to P2.7 billion in the last four years.

Pascual told concerned stakeholders, from consumers to small business owners, in a town hall meeting at the University of the Philippines (UP) Cebu, that about 14,747 MSMEs benefited from the various loan programs.

“These initiatives have supported around 61,000 MSMEs and 25,000 other users, creating over 62,500 jobs. We’ve also set up 29 OTOP Stores in the region, helping 840 MSMEs generate an estimated P27 million in sales,” he said Friday.

The DTI assisted about 102,000 MSMEs in the Visayas in 2023.

Pascual said the DTI had invested about P500 million for shared service facilities (SSFs) and launched 613 projects since 2023.

Cebu houses the second pioneer SSF located within UP Cebu. The first one is in Bohol.

DTI Visayas also reactivated 306 out of 418 Local Price Coordinating Councils (LPCCs) across the Visayas region.

Pascual said the Visayas contributes 14 percent to the Philippines’ gross domestic product, with Central Visayas at 7 percent, Western Visayas at 5 percent and Eastern Visayas at 2 percent.

vesting an initial P1 billion to develop the township, its first real estate venture out of Davao City where it has built high- and upper mid-range residential and commercial projects over

the last 60 years.

Alsons director Miguel Dominguez told the Manila Standard that “Sarangani has always been a valued region to the Alcantara family because we believe in its potential for growth and development.”

The diversified Alcantara Group’s agribusiness ventures are mainly located in Sarangani.

“We want to be part of that growth, and we are committed to helping lead Mindanao’s progress by creating a new lifestyle destination that will serve as a growth hub and create more opportunities for the people residing here,”

said Dominguez, who served as one of the youngest governors of the province for three terms from 2004 to 2013.

Alsons Dev officials brought visiting media to Avia Estate last week and showed the bustling construction activity for the first 32 hectares of the township.

Jessa Mae Sisi, Alsons Dev assistant general manager for sales and marketing, said Avia Estate represents a promise of a new community for Alabel and the SOCCSKARGEN (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos) area.

Domestic trade value surged 47% to P389b in first quarter

THE value of domestic trade in the Philippines surged 46.7 percent in the first quarter of 2024 from a year ago, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Friday. The total value of domestic trade amounted to P389.42 billion from January to March, up from P265.51 billion registered in the first quarter of 2023.

Domestic trade value refers to the outflow value of goods transported from one region or province to another within the country.

Nearly all (99.96 percent) of the commodities traded domestically in the first quarter were transported by water (coastwise), with the remaining being transported by air.

The PSA also reported a 19.7-percent increase in the quantity of domestic trade in the first quarter, reaching 7.73 million tons. This followed a 33.4-percent increase in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Food and live animals topped in terms of value of traded commodities with P225.08 billion or 57.8 percent of the total in the first quarter of 2024.

This was followed by machinery and transport equipment at P73.97 billion (19.0 percent) and manufactured goods classified chiefly by material at P30.29 billion (7.8 percent).

Tiu-Laurel lauds toll rebate program for agri products

N. Samar implements ‘green lane’ to facilitate investments

THE Board of Investments (BOI) said it witnessed the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the green lane ordinance between the provincial government of Northern Samar and its 24 municipalities on May 16, 2024.

Under the ordinance, the provincial government and participating municipalities will collaborate closely with the business community to identify regulatory bottlenecks and implement targeted reforms.

This approach will prioritize key sectors aligned with the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP) such as tourism, agriculture, digital infrastructure and renewable energy.

Key officials from the provincial government, municipal leaders and BOI representatives attended the signing ceremony, aiming to unlock Northern Samar’s full economic potential.

Governor Edwin Marino Ongchuan expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the ordinance’s potential to transform the business landscape.

“The green lane Ordinance is a game-changer for Northern Samar. It demonstrates our commitment to creating a conducive environment for business and investment, which is essential for our province’s economic development. We are confident that this ordinance will pave the way for significant investments that will benefit our communities and drive sustainable growth,” Ongchuan said.

BOI director Ernesto Delos Reyes reaffirmed the national government’s full support for the ordinance, highlighting its significance in improving the business climate and promoting sustainable economic progress.

“The MOA will not just improve the ease of doing business but also lay the groundwork for sustainable economic progress that benefits both residents and businesses alike. The BOI will be at your side every step of the way as your efforts today will surely contribute to the prosperity and vibrancy of your province for years to come,” Delos Reyes said. Manila

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) lauded the move by the Luzon tollway operators to implement a toll rebate program for trucks carrying agricultural products.

“We commend President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Department of Transportation for their decision to provide toll rebates for truckers,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco TiuLaurel Jr.

“This initiative should help stabilize food prices and ease the burden on Filipino consumers,” he said.

The Agri-Trucks Toll Rebate is a collaboration among the DA, the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The partners include Manila Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX), the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the Subic Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), the Muntinlupa Cavite Expressway (MCX) and the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX)

The rebate program, set for implementation starting June 1, will effectively offset recent toll increases for DA-accredited truckers.

It aims to lessen inflationary pressures on agricultural products, particularly rice, a key contributor to the current high inflation rate.

Laurel emphasized the DA’s ongoing efforts to bring down prices of agricultural products and provide more support for farmers to increase production. Othel V. Campos

The PSA said that in terms of quantity, trade of food and live animals reached 3.46 million tons or 44.7 percent of the total in the first quarter. This was followed by mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials with 1.27 million tons (16.5 percent) and machinery and transport equipment with 0.72 million tons (9.4 percent).

NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS MEETING OF ALLIED CARE EXPERTS (ACE) MEDICAL CENTER-BUTUAN INC.

DEAR STOCKHOLDERS:

Please take notice that the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Allied Care Experts (ACE) Medical Center – Butuan Inc. will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at 8:00 in the morning; the meeting will be conducted via Zoom Webinar. Kindly register thru the following link on or before June 8, 2024, to enable you to participate in the meeting: bit.ly/acebutuan2024

The link will take you through the registration process. Once you have successfully registered on the platform, you will receive a confirmation email with the details and procedures for conducting the meeting.

The confirmation email will also contain a link and instructions for the online voting, which will be conducted via an online platform. The meeting shall be recorded (visual and audio) for future reference.

The Agenda:

I. Call to Order II. Invocation III. Determination of Quorum IV. Welcome Message from the Chairman of the Board V. Reading and Approval of the Minutes of the Y2023 Annual Stockholders’ Meeting

VI. Annual Financial Report

VII. President’s Report

VIII. Ratification of the Acts and Proceedings of the Board of Directors, Officers, and Management of the Corporation

IX. Election of the Board of Directors

X. Appointment of External Auditor for the year 2024 XI. Adjournment

Only stockholders of record at the close of business on May 26, 2024 (Record Date) shall be entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting. If you cannot personally attend the meeting, you may opt to send your proxy to attend on your behalf. Kindly submit your duly executed proxy form with the undersigned via email at acebutuanasm2024@gmail.com not later than June 14, 2024, but preferably before June 8, 2024, to enable your proxy to register in the Zoom Webinar. The sample proxy form is available at

The project, situated within the 121-hectare mixed-use Avia Estate in Alabel, the capital of Sarangani, will be completed by 2027. Alsons

SATURDAY, MAY 25, 2024 extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

GSIS teams up with JICA to grow insurance business

THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) said Friday it signed a new technical agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to help the pension fund grow its insurance business and continue to safeguard civil servants and government assets.

“This joint effort is not just about protecting the future of government assets. With a robust insurance framework, this collaborative mission is a pro-active approach in demonstrating the GSIS commitment to building a stronger and safer nation through sustainable infrastructure practices,” said GSIS president and general manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso.

Veloso and JICA chief representative Sakamoto Takema signed the

agreement in November last year.

JICA is an implementing agency of Japanese official development aid (ODA) for the purpose of supporting the socio-economic development, recovery or economic stability of developing regions. Through this collaboration, the Philippines continues to achieve sustainable development in the transport sector, while providing additional lift for the administration’s “Build Better More” infrastructure initiatives.

The Technical Cooperation Project is designed to enhance GSIS’ underwriting capabilities, improve the capacity of its insurance group to calculate replacement costs and establish accurate insurance premium rates.

Higher deposit insurance coverage eyed

STATE-RUN Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. said it is studying the possible adjustment of the current deposit insurance coverage to benefit more depositors.

PDIC now provides a maximum deposit insurance coverage of P500,000 per depositor per bank.

PDIC general counsel Maria Antonette Brillantes-Bolivar, speaking at the Confederation of Central Luzon Rural Bankers (CCLRB) Annual Management Conference, highlighted the agency’s commitment to helping rural banks navigate the dynamic

banking landscape. She said the bank deposit insurer is considering measures to help safeguard depositors’ savings, ensuring they are adequately protected against any unforeseen risks or disruptions in the banking system.

Bolivar said that by reinforcing depositor protection, the government aims to reassure the public

Recto requests for additional P2b for local climate change projects

By Darwin G. Amojelar

FINANCE

Secretary and People’s Survival Board (PSF) chair Ralph Recto is seeking P2 billion in renewed funding from the Department of Budget and Management for climate change projects.

Recto’s request for additional funding came after the PSF signed five financing agreements for local climate adaptation projects and two provincial project approvals, fully committing the P1 billion PSF budget.

“I congratulate the PSF Board and the LGUs for working hard to conceptualize and study the feasibility of these projects, thus turning them into a reality. Rest assured, the national government will be with you every step of the way––from streamlining the project proposal process to

expediting fund utilization––so that we can fast-track our efforts towards achieving a climate-resilient Philippines,” Recto said.

The PSF was established under Republic Act No. 10174 to finance adaptation programs and projects of local government units (LGUs) and accredited local and community organizations.

The national government empowers LGUs to propose and implement their own solutions to adapt to the country’s changing climate needs. The signed financing agreements cover five climate adaptation projects totaling P539.4 million.

The local government of Eastern Samar received P118 million for the reinforcement of the Lo-om River flood protection system in Borongan City and redevelopment for resilient communities and livelihoods.

and strengthen trust in the banking sector.

“The depositor protection provided by PDIC assures bank depositors that their money in banks is insured up to the coverage limit. The increase in coverage will bolster our shared goal of promoting saving in banks, and in building confidence in the banking system and thus, create opportunities and build resilience for our banks,” she said.

Recognizing the challenges faced by rural banks, the PDIC is exploring targeted interventions to help them adapt to changing markets. These interventions include capacity-building

initiatives and digital transformation projects, she said.

The PDIC said that later this year, it would launch a case study program sharing best practices in deposit record-keeping derived from bank examinations. It will also introduce a secure online reporting system to streamline financial data submission for insured banks.

The PDIC recently signed an agreement with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for information exchange to eliminate duplicate reporting and simplifies the process for banks.

MGen obtains P2.79-b loan from Security Bank to roll out two solar projects

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MERALCO PowerGen Corp.

(MGen) said Friday its subsidiaries tapped combined funding of P2.79 billion for solar power projects from Security Banking Corp.

MGen said the units of its renewable energy arm MGen Renewable Energy Inc. (MGreen) secured funding for two solar projects with a combined capacity of 67.75 megawatts.

IN BRIEF

SeaBank reported P110-m profit in Q1

SEABANK Philippines Inc. (A Rural Bank) said it recorded a net in-

expansion in deposits to P20.23 billion.

SeaBank Philippines president Marco Cabreza announced plans to expand its financial products and services, consistent with its commitment to meeting client needs and delivering value.

“Built on a strong technological foundation and armed with a steadfast dedication to innovation, SeaBank aims to shape the future of mobile banking in the Philippines by making banking simple for everyone,” said Cabreza.

ATRAM launches 10 new funds

ATRAM, one of the largest and leading independent asset management companies in the Philippines, unveiled ten new investment funds in a strategic move following the recent transfer of Pru Life UK Asset Management and Trust Corp.’s fiduciary assets.

ATRAM rebranded and optimized the newly-acquired funds, reflecting a commitment to providing diversified investment options that suit every client’s individual needs and investment profile.

The ten rebranded funds complement ATRAM’s existing offerings, addressing gaps for clients’ diverse risk tolerance, investment horizons, and thematic preferences.

“This signing is more than a formal agreement; it is a commitment to progress and a shared vision for a sustainable future. This loan will facilitate growth, foster innovation, and create opportunities that will benefit many. It is a stepping stone toward achieving our collective goals and realizing our aspirations” said MGreen president and chief executive Jaime Azurin.

Security Bank to fund the construction of its 49-MW solar project in Cordon, Isabela. Meanwhile, Greentech Solar Energy Inc. (GSEI) obtained a P791.00million, 15-year term project financing facility from Security Bank to develop its 18.75-MW solar plant in Bongabon, Nueva Ecija.

Greenergy for Global Inc. (GGI) received a P2.034-billion, 15-yearterm project financing facility from

Security Bank’s trust and asset management group served as facility agent and security trustee, while Puno and Puno Law Offices served as the

borrowers’ legal counsel and Romulo Mabanta Buenaventura Sayoc & De Los Angeles acted as the lender’s legal counsel.

GGI and GSEI are among the winning bidders in the Department of Energy’s second round of Green Energy Auction Program.

Both projects play a strategic role in MGreen’s goal to expand its solar power capacity and contribute significantly to the nation’s renewable energy aspirations.

Pru Life UK maintained status as top PH life insurer in first quarter of 2024

PRU LIFE UK said it sustained its position as the leading life insurer in the Philippines, concluding the first quarter of 2024 with the highest new business annual premium equivalent (NBAPE), following its top ranking at the end of 2023. The report from the Insurance Commission (IC) shows that Pru Life UK garnered P2.36 billion in NBAPE as of March 31, 2024. NBAPE serves as the universally accepted performance metric used to assess and compare sales performances of the life insurance industry in the Philippines. By leveraging on a customer-cen-

billion as of end-March. Pru Life UK said it continues to diversify its innovative offerings with the launch of PRULove for Life, a limitedpay, whole-life participating plan for as low as P87 a day, and PRULove Wealth, a single premium product offering 4-percent guaranteed annual

“We are excited to announce the unveiling of these new funds, which represent a significant milestone in our long-term business strategy. By seamlessly integrating established offerings with our own, we have created more robust portfolios that cater to a wide range of investor preferences,” said ATRAM chief product officer Mia Grey.

MORE prepares for rainy season

MORE Power said it will start the final phase of its extensive cleaning operation on its 69kV lines in anticipation of the rainy season.

Bernard Bailey Del Castillo, vice president of MORE Power’s network development and operations, said Phases 1 and 2, conducted on March 27, 2024, and April 21, 2024, respectively, marked the initial stages of their efforts. Del Castillo said the scheduled power interruption on the weekend of May 26, 2024 is in preparation for the anticipated onset of the rainy season as forecasted by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

“The

WELFARE DELIVERY. Globe and GCash mobile wallet operator G-Xchange Inc. (GXI) team up with the

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to harness technology towards advancing various humanitarian programs. Sealing the partnership on May 20, 2024 are (from left) Globe Group president and chief executive Ernest Cu, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and G-Xchange president and chief executive Ren-Ren Reyes.

TECH

Massive discounts, win OPPO

Find N3 Flip on 6.6 sale

BE on the lookout for a shopping spree like no other and take advantage of big discounts on OPPO’s 6.6 Mega Sale featuring unbeatable deals and freebies on a variety of OPPO devices.

OPPO fans can take advantage of this exciting promo from June 6 to 10, with massive discounts of up to 66% on select OPPO smartphones, all-day vouchers, exclusive freebies, and special ₱6 bargains on OPPO’s official TikTok, Shopee and Lazada platforms.

Plus, every purchase of an OPPO smartphone will give you a chance to win an OPPO Find N3 Flip via a special raffle!

Maximize your davings with exclusive vouchers and discounts

You can save as you spend more with a P50 shipping discount voucher for every purchase of P500 or more and a P100 livestream voucher for every minimum spend of P4,999.

The excitement doesn’t stop there— everyone can enjoy all-day discount vouchers with P100 off for a minimum purchase of P5,499, P200 off for P8,999 and P400 for P13,999. There’s more! Dive into a 30% discount for every P3,499 purchase on Shopee capped at ₱1,200, 0% interest installment plans on select phones via SPayLater, P1,200 discount voucher for a minimum spend of P8,999 on Lazada and up to 0% interest for 45 days via LazPayLater.

You’ll also get a rare chance to boost your tech collection and avail the OPPO Band, OPPO Enco Buds2, OPPO Enco Air2, OPPO MH320 and OPPO DL129 for only just ₱6 each on Shopee, Lazada and TikTok on June 6.

Score fantastic freebies for an enjoyable shopping experience

To make your indulgence even more exciting, OPPO is giving out these freebies when you buy your next smartphone from June 6 to 10:

- Free MH320 Earphones with every purchase of the OPPO A38 and OPPO A58

- Free Pearl Case and OPPO Enco Air2 when you buy the OPPO Find N3 Flip - Free (YC C3 Rainbow) Speakers for all OPPO A78 5G and OPPO Pad Air purchases - Free S1 Bluetooth Speakers for all OPPO Reno11 Series 5G purchases

Enjoy fantastic bundle deals to enhance your shopping experience

To top off these amazing deals, OPPO is also offering fantastic bundle deals on wearables and smartphones. Elevate your digital lifestyle with the OPPO Band and OPPO Enco Buds2, OPPO A17K paired with either the OPPO Band or OPPO Enco Buds2, and OPPO A18 with the OPPO Band or OPPO Enco Buds2. Watch out for these deals and visit the official OPPO online store or check out OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok from June 6 to June 10 to discover the perfect tech companions for your lifestyle.

To get the best care for your OPPO devices, visit your nearest OPPO Care Center or contact us on our website, via Facebook.

ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition: A mid-range laptop with all the trimmings

By Peter Paul Duran

IN the ever-evolving landscape of gaming laptops, the ASUS TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition (FA617NSRN3018W) emerges as a compelling choice for gamers seeking a balance between performance and affordability. This review explores the laptop’s key features, strengths, and potential drawbacks to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your gaming and everyday needs.

Built for Gamers on the Go

The TUF Gaming A16 is powered by the robust AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS processor and the AMD Radeon RX 7600S mobile GPU, equipped with 8GB of GDDR6 memory. This combination ensures that the laptop can handle modern games at smooth frame rates, providing a seamless gaming experience even for demanding titles.

Durability is a hallmark of the TUF series, and the A16 is no exception. With military-grade (MIL-STD-810H) certification, this laptop is built to withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a reliable companion for gamers who are always on the move. The 512GB PCIe4 SSD offers ample storage for games and applications, while the 8GB of RAM, which is upgradable to 16GB, ensures smooth multitasking and enhanced performance.

One of the standout features of the TUF A16 is its efficient cooling system. Even during intense gaming sessions, the laptop remains cool,

thanks to its advanced cooling technology. This is complemented by a comfortable keyboard with satisfying key travel, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions.

All-Round Performance

Beyond gaming, the TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition proves to be a versatile machine. The powerful AMD processor and graphics card make it suitable for creative applications such as video editing and 3D rendering. This versatility extends to everyday use, where the laptop’s militarygrade build ensures durability and longevity.

Advantage Edition stands out as a worthy contender in the mid-range gaming laptop market.

it ideal for mobile gamers who are constantly on the go. Additionally, the laptop’s powerful processor and graphics card can handle demanding creative workloads, making it a versatile option for content creators.

ruggedness expected from the TUF Gaming line. This custom anodized aluminum finish is complemented by an Off-Black option for those who prefer a more low-profile look.

The design of the TUF A16 is both practical and stylish. The Sandstorm colorway adds a unique touch without being overly flashy, while an OffBlack option is available for those who prefer a more subdued look.

The laptop’s Dolby audio enhances the overall experience, delivering immersive soundscapes for games, movies, and music.

Who Should Consider This Laptop?

The TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers who prioritize performance and durability. Its relatively lightweight design (1.8kg) and long battery life make

However, potential buyers should note that the base model comes with 8GB of RAM, which might be limiting for some users. Upgrading to 16GB is recommended for a smoother experience, especially for multitasking. Another consideration is the lack of a built-in webcam, which means you’ll need to purchase a separate one if you frequently participate in video calls.

Design and Key Features ASUS has taken a unique approach to the design of the TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition, particularly with the Sandstorm colorway. Inspired by the resilience of military-grade equipment, the Sandstorm color reflects the

E911, DILG aim to bring state-of-the-art emergency response system to other LGUs

THE town of Morong, a second-class municipality in Rizal, scored a feat this May by being the first-ever local government unit in the Philippines and the first in Southeast Asia, to put in place a world-class, state-of-the-art emergency response center with the Next Generation 911 System used in the USA to better serve their residents.

Executive Director Francis Fajardo of the Emergency 911 National Office and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary for External, Legal and Legislative Affairs Atty. Juan Victor Llamas, activated Morong’s Emergency 911 Hotline Number at the inauguration of Morong’s E911 Local Command Center in Sitio Paglabas, Bgy. San Pedro on May 6. Fajardo hailed the establishment of the first E911 command center in the country as “a significant step forward in providing efficient and effective emergency response services to every corner of the nation”.

“This center will serve as the nerve center for emergency operations in Morong. It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by dedicated personnel trained to handle any crisis with precision and pro-

Morong’s investment in the emergency NG911 system presently used in the United States pioneers the use of technology in the country that will revolutionize the way and speed the LGU can handle emergencies

fessionalism,” Fajardo said.

Usec. Llamas congratulated the officials of Morong for being the first local government unit with a Next Generation 911 System in the country and said that Secretary Benjamin Abalos and the DILG supports the project.

“Morong will be placed in history as the pioneer LGU to use Emergency 911,

made possible with the help of NGA 911”, Llamas said. Morong will now be able to use the emergency 911 hotline instead of the current ten-digit number for emergency calls. Fajardo revealed that guided by the fundamental principles of the Bagong Pilipinas brand of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, his office and the DILG jointly

A slam dunk for sustainability: How tech boosts sports’

By William Xiong

Vice

President

of Alibaba Cloud Intelligence and General Manager for International Industry Solutions

IN the league of a greener future, technology is the sports industry’s star player, where scoring sustainability goals is as thrilling as the game itself, says William Xiong, Vice President of Alibaba Cloud Intelligence and General Manager for International Industry Solutions. With the upcoming Paris 2024 Games pinoneeringly aligning with the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, the sports industry is leading the charge in demonstrating how the world can achieve its green goals by embracing technological innovation.

Recognized by the United Nations as a pivotal contributor to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the sports industry has embraced sustainability as a strategic imperative.

Deloitte’s latest report solidifies this stance, highlighting environmental sustainability as a definitive factor shaping the industry’s trajectory by 2030. This drive fuels the adoption of innovative practices, offering competitive advantages and attracting eco-conscious partners. This is not just a passing trend—it embodies a necessary evolution in a world increasingly grappling with the ramifications of its environmental footprint. However, navigating the complexities of achieving these green objectives presents a formidable challenge. This is precisely where technological innovation, bol-

stered by Alibaba Cloud’s cuttingedge AI solutions and trusted cloud technologies, emerges as the Most Valuable Player (MVP), enabling the sports industry to make a slam dunk for sustainability.

AI Beyond Sports Performance Artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics have proven their worth by enhancing athlete performance and redefining fan engagement. Coaches utilize AI for personalized training regimes while minimizing the risk of injury, and media organizations are leveraging AI to streamline content creation and curation, saving time and resources. Looking ahead, AI’s capacity to analyze digital assets will help sports organizations mine insights and repurpose content across multiple channels, enhanc-

green goals

ing fan experiences while promoting sustainability narratives. However, the influence of technology in advancing sustainability goals extends far beyond the playing field.

Let’s examine how leading solutions are being deployed in practical and high-impact scenarios: Precision Eco-Impact Analytics with AI: Harnessing AI enables meticulous assessment and mitigation of the environmental footprint of sports events, providing datadriven insights for strategic carbon management. AI-driven sustainability platforms, like Alibaba Cloud’s Energy Expert, applied during the first-ever Olympic Esports Week in Singapore last year, are breaking new ground in quantifying the environmental impact of sporting events. By measuring and analyzing the

The TUF Gaming A16 offers several key features that enhance its appeal. The laptop is equipped with AMD’s latest technologies, including up to an AMD Ryzen 7 7940HS CPU and AMD Radeon RX 7700S GPU. This powerful combination ensures that the laptop can easily handle the latest games.

The display is another highlight, with slim bezels and an impressive 90% screen-to-body ratio. The laptop offers up to a QHD 240Hz refresh rate, providing a super smooth visual experience. For future-proofing, the TUF A16 supports USB 4 ports, PCIe Gen 4x4 storage, and DDR5 4800MHz RAM, with easy access to RAM and storage slots for upgrades.

aim “to localize the emergency 911 hotline nationwide in order to fulfill our mandate under Executive Order No. 56 for the institutionalization of E911 as nationwide answering point that conforms with the international standard for emergency hotline number”.

In April 2023, Morong town officials led by Mayor Sidney Soriano and Vice Mayor Jose Fred Feliciano signed an agreement with NGA Philippines (NGA) to provide Morong with world-class and complete solutions for emergency communication and public safety services. NGA Philippines is the local subsidiary of multinational corporation NGA 911, LLC headquartered in California, USA.

NGA is known globally as the innovator of emergency calling technology used by many states in the USA, and the leader in Next Generation 911 (NG911) emergency communications worldwide, NGA’s system is built on the industry standards adopted by the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) in the United States and the European Emergency Number Association (EENA). NGA Philippines’ Country Head Robert Llaguno said Morong’s investment in the emergency NG911 system presently used in the United States pioneers the use of technology in the country that will revolutionize the way and speed with which the LGU can handle emergencies. “NGA is prepared to bring the state-of-the-art E911 system to other LGUs in the archipelago, one LGU at a time”.

William Xiong

A16

New research reveals paradigm shift in customer experience

NEW research from global cloud communications platform Infobip reveals how conversational customer experiences and generative AI developments have created a long-lasting impact for the way people and brands interact.

Infobip analyzed more than 473 billion digital interactions on its platform in 2023 between businesses and consumers to identify the latest global business messaging trends.

As consumers look for a deeper connection with the brands they buy from, the conversational messaging channels are seeing the fastest growth. In 2023, Infobip recorded a 137% increase in mobile app messages compared to 2022, a 73% rise in social media messages, and a 63% increase in chat app messages. Conversational experiences are increasing throughout the customer journey, whether for marketing, commerce, or support.

Conversational support

Whether a person is dealing with a human agent, a chatbot, or a combination of the two, conversational support provides an effective, efficient, and positive experience. Globally, WhatsApp remains the primary channel brands use for conversational support, where businesses send 90% of support messages over the chat app. However, brands are beginning to diversify their channel mix, leveraging chat apps in specific regions. For instance, Infobip has recorded increases of 541%, 146%, and 284% in Messenger, Viber, and Line, respectively. In the Philippines, Viber stands as a strong regional player with a 34% increase in interactions on the app. Meanwhile, SMS (37%) and email (32%) remain as additional support channels for Filipinos.

According to Infobip, brands across the globe are now using conversational AI to provide personalized customer service and support. For instance, Megi Health Platform uses a virtual assistant on WhatsApp to help improve the patient experience. Meanwhile, insurance firm LAQO uses our Azure OpenAI part-

nership to provide a fast, 24/7 and personal service.

Conversational marketing

The two-way exchange of information is the basis for conversational marketing, and brands are ramping up their efforts to meet customers on the channels they use with their family and friends. Overall, the data shows a 29% increase in mobile app messaging for marketing in 2023 compared to 2022. WhatsApp remains the top digital channel for conversational marketing in absolute numbers, driven by new features that enable customers to start and complete a purchase in a single WhatsApp chat window. Infobip is also seeing significant increases in other messaging apps such as Telegram, Line, Viber, and Messenger. More specifically, WhatsApp messages increased by 421% in Asia Pacific in 2023, while mobile app messaging increased by 146% in the Middle East and North Africa and by 18 times in North America.

Meanwhile, RCS Business Messaging is an emerging channel for conversational marketing.

“Our data shows how conversational experiences are rapidly spreading across the globe as businesses roll out marketing, sales, and support use cases. Where 2022 revealed a spike in omnichannel adoption when brands recognized the importance of connecting with their customers on their preferred channel, 2023 shows how brands are perfecting the end-to-end customer journey. Customers can now seamlessly progress through a journey within a single conversational thread on a chat app or RCS. With the emergence of interactive AI, we expect brands to incorporate a federation of different chatbots and AI algorithms working together to trigger actions at the ideal points during the customer journey. In the next year, we foresee the widespread adoption in customer service, marketing and sale automa-

Rock’n Taipei gives local startups a boost

ONE of the biggest challenges for local startup companies is looking for a platform where they can show and realize their dreams of making it big someday. To do this in an international market is an even bigger dream and equally challenging one. The Taipei Entrepreneurs Hub

(TEH) opened the door for local startups with its 2024 AI+ Taipei Startup Pitch Contest set in October this year.

Announced during its Rock’n Taipei

T.E.H.: Gateway to Taiwan Innovation System event held recently, the competition aims to encourage local startup companies to start their adventure and

journey to success in Taiwan.

“[Rock’n Taipei] highlights the rich opportunities in Taipei for startups [aiming] to scale globally. Taipei is actively shaping the global startup landscape,” said Jonathan Liao, Managing Director of International Talent Taiwan Office.

Why

tion, and for operational use cases like scheduling deliveries and managing payments,” said Ivan Ostojić, Chief Business Officer at Infobip. Regional difference

With brands adopting conversational experiences globally, there are some regional differences: Africa: conversational channels gain traction with social media messages increasing nearly 2.5 times Asia Pacific: strong growth in mobile app messaging, with WhatsApp increasing by four times Europe: rapid growth for RCS, as interactions increase by 11 times Latin America: strong growth in mobile app messaging, with Viber increasing by more than 2.5 times Middle East North Africa: rapid adoption of conversational channels, as voice and video interactions double North America: exponential growth in rich messaging, with RCS interactions increasing by 50 times

BINGOPLUS Foundation, the social development arm of Digiplus Interactive Corp, continues to multiply the good with the launch of the Barangay Bigayan Program as part of efforts to uplift lives and contribute to a digitally-advanced and resilient Philippines.

The Barangay Bigayan Program provides immediate support for target sectors and long-term capacitybuilding investments across four pillars: Technology Education, Accessible Healthcare, Community Resilience, and Responsible Digitalization.

Multiply the Good Barangay Bigayan kicked-off at Barangay District 2, Lemery, Batangas where BingoPlus Foundation handed over a public tricycle. The tricycle serves as vital transportation support for senior citizens, pregnant women, parents with young children, and persons with disabilities, providing easier access to local health and daycare centers. It is also used for evening security checks, ensuring the safety of residents.

Meanwhile, BingoPlus Foundation joined in the fun at Barangay Pitogo in Taguig City during their Foundation Week celebration where the foundation provided ambulance services and critical support to the community.

Nearly 50 senior citizens and the local health center received a grant comprising wheelchairs, nebulizer kits, blood pressure monitoring kits, and glucose monitoring kits. This donation has made accessible healthcare a reality for the elders of Barangay Pitogo.

“With collaborative efforts with our local community partners, we are looking forward to making a lasting impact through addressing pressing needs of the communities we serve through the Barangay Bigayan Program,” said Andy Tsui, President of DigiPlus Interactive and Chairman of BingoPlus Foundation.

To make this possible, TEH offers a total of NT$50,000 to cover the finalists’ round trip tickets to Taipei and accommodation expenses. The contest is open to Philippine-based startups that have been involved in the AI industry in the last eight years. Their products or services should provide solid solutions with collaboration potential and must have a strong strategic plan for business development in Taipei.

“In addition to making their companies known to the Taiwanese ecosystem and other international markets as well, the finalists will also be able to interact with possible partners and investors in Taiwan. These connections will be very crucial to the success of these startup companies in the immediate future,” added Liao.

cultivating continuous learning culture is a win-win for companies, Filipino talents

By Dr. Tianyi Jiang (TJ)

Co-Founder & Chief Executive

Officer,

THE United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and other organizations have consistently stressed the importance of lifelong learning for economic growth, emphasizing the necessity to upskill and reskill workers.

This impending need for lifelong learning continues to drive market demand, with the continuing education industry in APAC projected to reach a market size of $58 billion by 2030. As the work landscape rapidly evolves, the need for employees to keep abreast of emerging skills demands brought by technology trends becomes more urgent, making it necessary for local company leaders to start prioritizing the talent development of their employees. Talent development is crucial The provision of continuous education is critical in achieving happier employees and increased revenue which eventually contributes to the greater good of a company. This is why investing

in talent and accommodating their upskilling and reskilling needs, especially in the Philippines, is key to future-proofing organizations. The Future of Jobs Report 2023 by the World

Economic Forum (WEF) revealed that analytical thinking was the most important skill for workers. On top of this cognitive skill, organizations are anticipated to put a premium on creative thinking in the next few years to address the growing complexity of problem-solving in the modern workplace. Other in-demand skills are technological literacy, curiosity and lifelong learning, systems thinking, artificial intelligence (AI) and big data. Mirroring the latest skills demanded from globally competitive talents, technology, especially generative AI, will continue to revolutionize adult learning and will drive a shift towards more social, personalized, and informal learning methods, akin to the customer experiences (CX) provided by many industry leaders in direct service of consumers, for optimum manpower development. How continuous learning benefits companies According to a study by LinkedIn Learning, employee retention is a concern of 93 percent of global companies. Despite the economic challenges left by the pandemic and inflation, employees still value skill and career growth alongside good compensation and work flexibility. The study has found that an individual’s reasons for pursuing a new company include doing challenging and im-

pactful work, opportunities for career growth and the chance to learn and develop new skills. If an employee’s priorities are being provided for in their current workplace, they are less likely to leave and seek a new job. Thus, companies need to highlight their employees’ skills and career growth in their organization goals to achieve a lower turnover rate. Aside from achieving employee retention, supporting employees’ continuous learning also aids organizations to become more agile, enabling them to act quickly on valuable opportunities. An agile workforce helps an organization thrive and survive amid economic headwinds.

Skill shortage is another challenge for organizations. Companies in the US and Europe are witnessing an imbalance in job openings and seekers where there are more unfilled positions than there are unemployed workers. WEF revealed that six out of 10 businesses say that the skills gap problem impedes business transformation. Investing in employees’ constant learning can address this issue. Creating opportunities and strategies that enable employees to upskill and reskill, especially with the emergence of technologies such as generative AI, which are likely to change the skills their jobs require, will help keep companies afloat.

Data from Infobip shows impact of conversational customer experiences and GenAI in 2023.

Nearly 50 senior citizens receive a grant of medical equipment

Proponents of the Taipei Entrepreneurs Hub with local startups.

Dr. Tianyi Jiang (TJ)

SHOWBIZ

Kelvin Miranda, Kira Balinger film debuts at inaugural Jinseo fest in Japan

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

CHANCES Are, You and I has been selected as a Spotlight Entry at the inaugural Jinseo Arigato International Film Festival in Tokyo, Japan.

Running from today until the 26th, this film event offers stars Kelvin Miranda and Kira Balinger opportunity to present their film to the Filipino community in Japan as well as to the global audience.

Speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, director Cathy Camarillo her excitement about the film’s inclusion: “I’m delighted and fortunate that our story has been appreciated. Being chosen as the opening salvo, we hope more people will come to appreciate both the story of our two characters and Filipino-made films included in the festival.”

Initially, a local screening was planned, but the festival opportunity was too significant to pass up according to the director.

“It’s also exciting that we can serve as a bridge for Filipinos in Japan to connect with their homeland,” Camarillo added.

Camarillo highlighted the film’s quality and unique premise, which stands out from the traditional romance, comedy, or drama genres, as the reason for its selection as the festival’s opening film.

“We believe the relatable story and excellent performances of our actors contributed to this honor. The positive social media feedback has been heartwarming, and we hope the film will succeed,” she said.

Lead actors Kira and Kelvin, who are currently in Japan to present their film, emphasized the film’s relevance, especially to today’s youth.

“Our characters aim to raise awareness about brain illness, which is a global issue,” Kira said. “We hope people who are suffering from mental health issues will find inspiration in our story.”

Miranda added that the film not only explores romantic themes but also delves into family and societal issues.

“The film poses the question of whether you’d let fate decide for you or if you’d change the course of your life. We want to convey that every problem has a solution,” he said.

In Chances Are, You and I, Kelvin plays Sol Sikat, a young man struggling with a brain tumor and a bleak outlook on life. Kira portrays Gabi Sinag, Sol’s opposite – a vibrant soul who remains optimistic despite her diagnosis. Gabi’s indomitable spirit drives her to seek joy and a normal life despite her illness.

The film features an evocative soundtrack with tracks like “Demonyo” by Juan Karlos “JK” Labajo, “Mapa” by SB19, and “Anghel” by Brando Bal The film unspools in local cinemas nationwide on May 29, with a premiere night at SM Megamall on May 28.

Chances Are, You and I is produced by Pocket Media Productions, Inc., in partnership with Happy Infinite Productions, Inc., and Pocket Media Films, and will be distributed by Regal Entertainment.

RPTV, the free-to-air channel for sports, news, and entertainment, is now broadcasting the NBA Conference Finals. This includes the Eastern Conference series between the Boston Celtics and the Indiana Pacers, which began on May 22. Basketball lovers can enjoy the thrilling NBA postseason action for free on RPTV. The channel will also broadcast all games of the Western Conference Finals, which started on May 23, featuring the Dallas Mavericks and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Launched in February 2024 in collaboration with TV5 and MediaQuest as content providers, RPTV has delivered public service, entertainment, and sports programming that caters to the diverse interests of Filipinos and

the whole family.

GARFIELD creator Jim Davis admits he was bowled over by Chris Pratt as the voice behind the beloved Monday-hating, lasagna-loving indoor cat in The Garfield Movie

“Chris has a great attitude in his voice and incredible timing,” says Davis. “I rate him a ten for funny. And one of the things he does is really bring the Garfield edge and attitude to the character, so he understands the character and nailed him. He’s great to listen to. You can sit back immediately and go, ‘Yeah, that’s Garfield.’”

In The Garfield Movie, the world-famous Garfield is about to have a wild outdoor adventure. After an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father (Samuel L. Jackson) – scruffy street cat Vic – Garfield and his canine friend Odie (Harvey Guillén) are forced from their perfectly pampered life to join Vic in a hilarious, high-stakes heist. After nearly 50 years of comic strip stardom and hilarious TV specials, The Garfield Movie brings together everything audiences love about Garfield – plus a few new surprises. Executive producer Jim Davis was thrilled to see an animated film break Garfield out of his three-panel confines.

“In animation, Garfield gets out and around more. Otherwise, why animate him?” says Davis. “Garfield has the same personality, but animation allows for a plot that gets him out of bed, with the luxury of time to tell the story, plus music, sound effects, and dialogue to drive the gags and story.” Davis says that he created the character to stand in contrast with the many dogs that were ruling the comics page at the time.

including basketball (PBA, PBA D-League, and FIBA), volleyball (Premier Volleyball League), and more.

“Bringing the NBA to more Filipino homes reinforces our commitment to make RPTV the go-to channel for the best sports content in the country,” said TV5 President and CEO Guido R. Zaballero

RPTV is available on Channel 9 Analog, Channel 19 DTT, Channel 18.3 DTT, and over 300 cable and satellite providers nationwide, and via the Cignal Play OTT app.

“I saw a lot of dogs doing very well –Snoopy, Marmaduke, Fred Basset, you name it,” he says. “But there were no cats at the time. And I grew up on a farm with about 25 cats on average, so I knew and loved cats. I thought, ‘Well, if dogs are doing that well, maybe I could use a cat.’ Cats are kind of standoffish – you know where your dog stands, but cats are aloof.”

50 surprises. he to says

Because of that, he says, “it’s natural to attribute human thoughts and feelings to cats. Garfield is a human being in a catsuit.” Indeed, Davis says that Garfield’s staying power comes from the fact that his millions of fans recognize themselves in his foibles. Cats – they’re just like us! “I hold a mirror to the reader and show them back with a humorous twist,” says Davis. “We’re made to feel guilty for overeating, not exercising, and oversleeping. Garfield relieves our guilt by enjoying all of those things.”

“Garfield’s frustrations are universal,” agrees director Mark Dindal, who helms our lazy and sarcastic hero’s first fully animated big-screen adventure. “He reminds people of their childhoods. The visual humor will always play. You can find Garfield comics from 15, 20, 30 years ago, and they don’t feel dated because they’re never really rooted in something specific to that period.”

Says producer John Cohen, “It’s such an honor that Jim Davis entrusted us to be custodians of his creation – there’s nothing that has made me happier than to hear his joy and enthusiastic reactions to the film throughout production.”

The Garfield Movie, from Columbia Pictures, opens in cinemas on May 29.

‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ star Chris Pratt voices the iconic cat in the new film ‘The Garfield Movie’

Actress Kira Balinger stars alongside Kelvin as optimist Gabi Sinag who longs to live her life to the fullest despite her condition

L. Jackson joins Pratt as the voice of Garfield’s long-lost father

Apart from romance, ‘Chances Are, You and I’ also explores the themes of familial and societal issues

Actor Kelvin Miranda takes on the role of pessimist Sol Sikat suffering from a severe brain condition

‘Chances Are, You and I’ stars Kira Balinger (left) and Kelvin Miranda

SATURDAY, MAY 25, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

By Abigail Adriatico

IN MALE fashion, accessories are key to a modern man’s style, with bags being essential for their functionality and sophistication. The U Elements Elite Collection, a new line from premium brand U Elements, offers timeless bags designed for today’s busy professionals.

U Elements has recently unveiled its latest U Elements Elite Collection, which features a fresh line of timeless pieces offering functionality and style for both work and travel.

During the collection’s launch last May 14 at the Uptown Mall in BGC, President of United Limsun International Trading Corporation Irish Lim shared the inspiration behind the brand’s new line of bags.

“It’s about combining business and leisure and it’s now what we call b-leisure,” said Lim, adding how the collection was perfect for young professionals who work in a corporate setting or those who travel a lot for leisure or work.

C4 LIFE

Timeless bags every modern man needs

The new line of bags includes six unique bags which were Ansel, Brice, Brook, Grant, Hugh, and Rhett. Each bag features a dedicated compartment to keep gadgets like laptops and tablets safe and secure. It also has room for smaller items with its five sliding pockets and three pen holders along with a zippered internal pocket and front zippered pocket. As it exudes durability with its military-grade fabric, the bags also prioritize comfortability with its S Straps that make it easy to carry around for long periods. It also has a quick-release key ring, a USB port to charge devices as well as a luggage strap on the padded back panel for the convenience of those on the go. The Elite Collection also has the Elite Ford Business Trolley Luggage that comes in three colors: black, gray, and white. It features a front opening for laptops and gadgets. It also has Hinotomo brand double caster wheels which ensure a smooth and silent experience as one wheels their luggage around to where they need to be. Its 100 percent polycarbonate body and lightweight aluminum trolley system

make it perfect for those looking for durable luggage. Apart from its latest high-quality backpacks and luggage, U Elements also revealed its first brand ambassador Cebuano lawyer Oliver Moeller. During the launch of the latest collection, Moeller took the time to share how he came to be the brand’s ambassador after meeting with the team a few weeks back.

“Before I decided to sign with them, I talked to my mom. I called my mom [and said] na ‘Mom, there’s this company called U Elements. I talked to them [and] I learned all about their corporate history, everything and the products they’re making’ and my mom literally told me, ‘This company is so you,’” said Moeller. The brand ambassador further said that he had been using U Elements’ backpacks in his travels for work. “Even before I signed up with them, I already owned a Brice Organizational Backpack. It’s awesome. I’ve been using it for the last three weeks,” he added.

The U Elements Elite Collection is available in all Urbanize stores as well as SM Departments Stores nationwide. They can also be purchased online through www.urbanize.com.ph , Lazada, Shopee, and Zalora.

Bang Pineda returns to the runway

DESIGNER Bang Pineda announces his comeback with a fashion show on June 5 at One Ayala Tower, his first since November 2019.

Pineda will unveil a 50-piece collection blending streetwear and elegance, showcasing his visionary style.

When asked about the decision to return to the runway after such a significant hiatus, Pineda shared his sentiments, “I think it’s time to return to the runway. My last

a fashion show, but I felt it wasn’t the right time. I couldn’t find inspiration, I wasn’t feeling it until late last year. I was in Paris, and you all know how I love the city. That’s what inspired me again to create the new collection.”

Describing his current state of mind, Pineda expressed, “My state of Bang is calm, focused, and optimistic.”

The inspiration behind Pineda’s latest collection draws from his passions and experiences. “My inspiration for the new collection is my current state of mind - my love for tennis, the beach, and of course, Paris,” he revealed. True to his signature style, Pineda’s collection seamlessly blends elements of sport, leisure, and sophistication, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary

Guests can anticipate an unforgettable showcase as Pineda presents his latest collection, characterized by innovative designs, meticulous craftsmanship, and a distinct blend of influences.

A krazy comeback

With an array of garments ranging from structured streetwear to effortlessly chic ensembles, Pineda’s runway revival promises to inspire and delight fashion enthusiasts worldwide.

KRAZY Garlik is set to reopen this June at the 3rd Level of One Ayala Mall, featuring an expanded menu and new beverage options. This popular restaurant, a concept by The Bistro Group, is known for its Filipino and Western-inspired dishes with garlic as the star ingredient.

Diners can look forward to returning favorites like the Amazing KG Salad and 40 Kloves Chicken, as well as unique offerings such as Shrimp on a Roll, Bag O Seafood, and the spicy Hara-Kiri rice. For dessert, the garlic-infused Crema Catalana is a must-try.

The revamped interiors of Krazy show was prepandemic, in November 2019, and it’s been that long. I always wanted to do for Paris,” sophistication, fashion.

The restaurant’s new design take on a minimalist approach with a touch of modernity

Designer Bang Pineda’s last runway show was in November 2019

Krazy Garlik returns with an expanded menu and new interiors

Garlik are minimalist with modern touches, featuring neutral tones, natural wood accents, and muted red highlights for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Despite the

new look, the restaurant promises the same garlicky flavors that have always been a hit with customers. Krazy Garlik will open at Level 3, One Ayala, Makati.

Oliver Moeller shares how he became the brand’s ambassador

U Element brand ambassador Oliver Moeller with Urbanize executives during the launch of the Elite Collection

Cebuano lawyer Oliver Moeller is the new brand ambassador of U Elements