Manila Standard - 2024 May 29 - Wednesday

President to meet Romualdez, Escudero on Cha-cha, priority bills

By Maricel Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

PRESIDENT

Charter change efforts as well as priority bills of the administration.

House Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo said this was disclosed by Romualdez before he left for

‘Divorce covers Church unions’ Estrada survey shows Senate split on measure

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel Cruz

CATHOLIC marriages will be covered by the Divorce Law once it is passed by Congress, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said, rejecting the position of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines that the measure will only apply to civil unions.

“It’s completely baseless to assert that a ‘sacramental marriage’ or church wedding will not be covered by a future divorce law,” Lagman said.

“Church marriage is recognized as a civilly valid marriage under the Family Code and is regulated like civil marriages by the secular laws on marriage,” he added.

The House of Representatives approved on third and final reading a measure seeking to bring back absolute divorce.

At the Upper Chamber, Senator Jinggoy Estrada on Tuesday said he did an informal survey among his colleagues which showed that five were against divorce while six said they were supporting the measure.

Aside from Estrada, Senate President Francis Escudero, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino, and Senators Joel Villanueva and Ronald dela Rosa said they were not in favor of bringing back absolute divorce based on the informal poll.

Those who were in favor based on Estrada’s poll were Senators Risa Hontiveros, Grace Poe, Raffy Tulfo, Robin Padilla, Imee Marcos and Pia Cayetano.

Based on the public pronouncements, however, seven are in favor of Next page

By Charles Dantes

THE Philippines and Brunei on Tuesday signed three memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and one letter of intent (LOI) to enhance bilateral cooperation. The MOUs cover tourism coopera-

Charles Dantes

Based on OCD’s report, however, only one of the six fatalities have been verified as of press time. According to PAGASA’s 5 p.m. update on Monday, five provinces remained under Tropical Cyclone Wind

tion, mutual recognition of standards for training, certification, and watchkeeping (STCW) certificates, and maritime collaboration. Meanwhile, the LOI renews a previous agreement on food security and agricultural cooperation.

“And for that, we hope to expand the partnerships that we have begun and we feel that there is much potential that we can examine,” President Marcos said in his meeting with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine Navy on Tuesday had ob-

The vessels were spotted as China imposed its South China Sea (SCS) moratorium within the said area.

Based on the statement of Navy Spokesperson for the WPS Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad, the vessels seen along the different land features of the WPS from May 21-27 were as follows:

In Bajo de Masinloc, about five Chi-

nese Coast Guard vessels (CCGVs), 14 Chinese maritime militia vessels (CMMVs); Ayungin Shoal, five CCGVs, 17 CMMVs; Pag-asa Island, 1 CCGV, 1 PLAN ship, 34 CMMVs; along Kota Island, one CMMV; Lawak Island, one CMMV; Panata Island, three CMMVs; Patag Island, two CCGVs, two CMMVs; and Sabina Shoal, two CCGVs, four PLAN ships, 30 CMMVs. Trinidad emphasized that the Philippine Navy does not recognize the SCS moratorium being imposed by China, neither

By

TYPHOON Aghon took the lives of six (6) people, said Edgar Posadas, the spokesperson for the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), on Tuesday.

Signal No. 1 as Aghon moved northeastward from Luzon. These are: Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Isabela, Aurora, Quezon including Polillo Islands, and Camarines Norte.

CLOSER TIES. President Marcos Jr. and His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah shake hands after the signing of several agreements during the Philippines-Brunei bilateral meeting yesterday at the Istana Nurul Iman royal palace. PCO

Sara asks SC to dismiss petitions

By Rey E. Requejo

VICE President Sara Duterte has asked the Supreme Court (SC) to dismiss the three petitions assailing the constitutionality of the transfer of the amount of P125 million by the Office of the President (OP) to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) for use as confidential funds in December 2022.

In a 16-page consolidated comment, Duterte through her counsel, former Solicitor General Estelito Mendoza, argued there is no “justiciable controversy” in the petitions that would warrant the Court’s exercise of its power of adjudication.

Mendoza served as solicitor general from 1972 until 1986 during the term of the late President Ferdinand Marcos, father of the sitting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

According to Mendoza, the petitions do not allege that Duterte exercised

Brunei yesterday as part of the President’s delegation.

“One of the agenda is Charter change,” said Tulfo, who is also the spokesman of the majority coalition in the House of Representatives.

“I don’t know where they will arrive [in terms of an agreement on Cha-cha], but that is one of the talking points as well as the coordination between the Senate and the House in terms of the priority bills of the President,” he added.

Escudero, who recently replaced Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri as head of the Upper Chamber, earlier said his position against amending the 1987 Constitution remains.

He said he is hoping that the President will ask him questions about Charter change efforts.

“I will always answer if this will be raised (by the President)... But it is not for me to volunteer about this to the President because he can obtain more extensive knowledge than what he will obtain from me,” he said in an interview on Tuesday.

“Perhaps, I might also be wrong so it is also good to listen,” he added.

Escudero earlier stood firm on his rejection of a joint vote of the two chambers as it would put the 24-strong Senate at a disadvantage. He said passing the Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 – the Senate version of the economic Charter change proposals – seems “farfetched.”

“grave abuse of discretion, much less any discretion” in the release of the Contingent Funds for use as confidential funds of the OVP.

“Indeed, the mandate of the Honorable Court does not include the duty to answer all of life’s questions. No question, no matter how interesting or compelling, can be answered by this Court if it cannot be shown that there is an actual and antagonistic assertion of rights by one party against the other in a controversy wherein judicial intervention is unavoidable,” Mendoza said.

The former Solicitor General argued the need for a case or actual controversy before the Court could exercise its judicial power as mandated under Arti-

cle VIII (Judicial Department), Section 1 of the Constitution.

The said provision states: “Judicial power includes the duty of the courts of justice to settle actual controversies involving rights which are legally demandable and enforceable, and to determine whether or not there has been a grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction on the party of any branch or instrumentality of the government.”

The allegations of the petitioners, according to Mendoza, do not show actual controversy involving rights, which are legally demandable and enforceable as required by the Constitution.

Duterte’s camp added that the pe -

Luzon grid placed under ‘red alert’ anew

By Alena Mae S. Flores

GRID operator National Grid of the Corp. of the Philippines once again placed the Luzon grid on red alert status yesterday as a total of 3,963.3 megawatts of capacity became unavailable to the grid.

NGCP placed the Luzon grid on red alert from 2 pm to 4pm, 8pm to 10pm and yellow alert from 1pm to 2pm, 4pm to 5pm, 6pm to 8pm and 10pm to 11pm as available capacity reached 12,669 MW compared to peak demand of 12,228MW.

It said three plants have been on forced outage since 2023, three between January and March 2024, and 12

power plants between April and May 2024; while 10 are running on derated capacities.

ing margin is insufficient to meet the transmission grid’s contingency requirement.

SC grants plea to move Quiboloy case to QC

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court has granted the request of the Department of Justice for the transfer of the criminal cases filed against Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder Apollo Quiboloy from Davao City to Quezon City. In a resolution, the SC on Monday granted the plea of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla to transfer the trial venue to a Quezon City Regional Trial Court to avoid a miscarriage of justice.

“The Court found compelling reasons to justify the transfer of venue as the cases involve public interest, with the accused, a well-known religious leader, being influential in the area,” the SC said in a statement.

divorce – including Senator JV Ejercito – while seven are against it, including Senators Aquilino Pimentel III and Juan Miguel Zubiri.

“I have been and still am not in favor of legalizing divorce in our country. Instead of pushing for an absolute divorce law, which is proscribed by the Constitution, perhaps a bill with a well-defined ground for nullifying a marriage would be a much welcomed alternative,” Estrada said.

“From what I have read in the news as to the contents of the House bill on

#ANONGBALITA

Marcos signs ‘Eddie Garcia’ Law

PRESIDENT Marcos recently signed a Republic Act (RA) 11996 or the “Eddie Garcia Law,” named after the late legendary actor, to enhance workplace safety and protect the welfare of movie and television industry professionals in the country. The law mandates that employers ensure the protection and wellbeing of their workers through several key provisions, including regulated work hours, fair wages, social security, health and safety measures, and comprehensive insurance coverage.

Key Features of the Eddie Garcia Law:

1. Workplace Protection. Employers must comply with the Labor Code of the Philippines and RA 11058, ensuring occupational safety and health standards are met. Workers are entitled to a safe working environment, proper working conditions, and necessary benefits.

2. Employment Contracts. The law requires that employment contracts be clearly understood by both parties, written in a language or dialect they comprehend. These contracts must not discriminate based on race, color, descent, national or ethnic origin, or religion.

3. Fair Wages. Workers are guaranteed a minimum wage in line with regional standards. Employers must pay wages promptly as specified in the employment contract.

4. Social Security and Benefits.

All workers will be covered by the Social Security System (SSS), the Home Development Mutual Fund

(Pag-IBIG Fund), and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).

5. Protection of Minors. Employers must adhere to RA 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Law), as amended by RA 9231, regarding the employment of minors in the industry.

6. Health and Safety Compliance. The law emphasizes strict adherence to occupational safety and health standards, as outlined in RA 11058 (Occupational Safety and Health Standards Law) and Section 25 of RA 11036 (Mental Health Law).

7. Skills Development. The law promotes continuous upskilling and reskilling of workers. TESDA, in partnership with relevant agencies and stakeholders, will develop and implement training programs to enhance workers’ skills.

Penalties for Violations:

- First offense: Up to P100,000 - Second offense: Up to P200,000 - Third and subsequent offenses: Up to P500,000

Corporate entities, including executive producers, producers, production managers, and business unit managers, will be held accountable for any violations, according to the law.

The landmark legislation aims to prevent tragedies like the one that befell Garcia and ensure a safer, fairer working environment for all industry professionals. The law sets a new standard for the treatment and protection of movie and television workers in the Philippines.

It said several factors contributed to the raising of yellow alert, particularly: the forced outage of the following plants, namely Ilijan (600MW), Pagbilao 1 (382MW), 2 (382MW), & 3 (420MW), QPPL (460MW), emergency shutdown of San Lorenzo 50 (265MW), deration of the following plants (Sual 1, Sual 2, Limay 4, Limay 8) and high forecasted demand.

A red alert status is issued when power supply is insufficient to meet consumer demand and the transmission grid’s regulating requirement while a yellow alert is issued when the operat-

divorce, I cannot vote for that bill,” Pimentel said. Escudero earlier said that instead of divorce, the government should work to make annulment affordable and accessible. Zubiri, for his part, said he is “a conservative – I am pro-family and pro-life.”

Ejercito, on the other hand, said that while he understands the defense of the Church of the sanctity of marriage, he also acknowledges that “a lot of Filipino couples are trapped in loveless and unworkable marriages.”

“As a representative of the people and a Catholic, I am currently in the process of discernment. I intend to listen, and actively participate in the deliberation in the Senate. I am leaning at this time

For its part, Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has started coordinating with customers enrolled under the Interruptible Load Program (ILP) for their de-loading commitments to help ease the demand.

“The continued participation of our big-load customers proves to be very beneficial in managing the current supply situation. They collectively de-loaded around 300 MW yesterday, helping minimize rotational power interruptions despite the hours-long Red Alert that started at 1:00 p.m., ” Meralco spokesperson and corporate communications head Joe Zaldarriaga said.

to be in favor,” he said.

Hontiveros, principal author and sponsor of the measure in the Senate, emphasized that the committee report on the Divorce Bill in the Senate has been ready for some time.

“We are just waiting for the committee report to be reported out in the Senate plenary session,” stated Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality.

Tulfo expressed belief that the divorce bill is an act of social justice that would give people a fresh start from a miserable marriage.

“The quality of family life for spouses who are already in an unhealthy marital

hancing our friendship in areas of future interest, which I believe will greatly benefit our countries and people,” Bolkiah added.

Bolkiah, on the other hand, expressed optimism about strengthening ties as the countries celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations. “I believe that we are commemorating this significant occasion through visits,” the Sultan told Mr. Marcos.

“I’m looking forward to further en-

The MOU on tourism, signed by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Brunei’s Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), aims to boost tourism projects and promote Muslimfriendly destinations.

“As this could cause local biases and a strong possibility that witnesses cannot freely testify due to fear and influence of the accused, the Court found it prudent and judicious to order the transfer of the cases to Quezon City,” it added.

The high court directed the Clerk of Court of Davao City RTC Branch 12 to forward the records of the cases to the Office of the Executive Judge of the QC RTC within three days from notice.

Quiboloy is facing charges under Section 5(b) of Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act and under Section 10(a) of the same act before the Davao court. With this, the SC ordered the QC RTC Executive Judge to raffle off the cases.

relationship is not what was envisioned by the State as something that needs protection,” Tulfo said. Under the measure passed by the House, the following are grounds for divorce: legal separation under Article 55 of the Family Code of the Philippines; annulment of marriage under Article 45 of the Family Code of the Philippines; separation of the spouses for at least five years at the time of the petition for absolute divorce is filed, and reconciliation is highly improbable; psychological incapacity as provided in Article 36 of the Family Code of the Philippines; and domestic or marital abuse to include acts under RA No. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and and Their Children Act of 2004.

At around 4 p.m. the estimated location of the eye of the storm was 155 kms east southeast of Casiguran, Aurora. It packed maximum sustained winds of 140 kms per hour near the center.

The PAGASA report pegged the storm’s gustiness up to 170 kms per hour, with central pressure of 965 hPa.

Aghon is generally moving northeastward over the Philippine Sea and will be leaving the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Wednesday afternoon or evening.

In response to the typhoon on Tuesday, President Ferdinand Mar-

will it be deterred “in securing the welfare of Filipinos either on land or sea.” Trinidad added that the number of patrols had been propped near Bajo de Masinloc and the northern islands. This is in accordance with the shift to external defense and

of the

The STCW agreement allows both countries to recognize each other’s certification standards, updating a previous agreement from 2001. The maritime cooperation MOU, on the other hand, focuses on pollution control, skills training, research, and information sharing.

cos Jr. ordered a whole-of-government response to aid recovery efforts following Typhoon Aghon, before departing to visit Brunei Darussalam and Singapore this week.

In his departure speech, the President instructed the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Agriculture (DA), and Department of Health (DOH) to provide comprehensive assistance and medical support to affected areas.

He also gave the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Transportation (DOTr) the task of rapidly restoring infrastructure and transportation facilities damaged by the storm.

cept (CADC) of the Philippine military. Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) remonstrated that China’s moratorium on fishing violates international law, and undercuts the country’s maritime and sovereign rights in the said areas. According to the DFA statement, the moratorium, which runs from May 1 to September 16, covers maritime zones wherein the country has sovereign rights and legal jurisdiction.

Meanwhile, the LOI between the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Brunei’s Agriculture and Agrifood Department (AAD) highlights shared interests in food security and sustainable agriculture.

government agencies.

“While it is painful and saddening that this happened, we are hoping that everything will be given a fair and just resolution,” Aumentado said through a live streamed video on the province’s social media page.

“As public servants at the helm of the provincial government, we take our responsibility seriously to preserve the natural wonders of our province so that the next generation can enjoy them as well,” he said. Aumentado said he received the order from the Office of the Ombudsman yesterday morning.

The preventive suspension stemmed from the establishment of Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort built alongside the Unesco-declared Global Geopark in the town of Sagbayan.

The Bohol governor said an investigation into the construction of the resort is still ongoing in the Senate and Congress.

The six-month preventive suspension comes without pay, except when the delay in the disposition of the Ombudsman’s case is “due to their fault, negligence, or petition, in which case the period of delay shall not be counted in computing the period of preventive suspension.” Rio N. Araja

IN BRIEF

CHR condemns rape cases against children

THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday condemned a series of reported rape cases against children.

“These appalling incidents are a grave violation of human rights and highlight the urgent need for robust actions to protect our children and ensure justice for the victims,” its statement read.

It cited recent cases illustrating the alarming scope and severity of a 15-year-old student in Metro Manila, whowas raped by a motorcycle rider suspect who offered her a ride and even took her to a restaurant before committing the heinous act.

It cited a man who was arrested in Manila after allegedly raping his 14-year-old daughter for two years, and that the victim was first raped by her uncle in 2022. Rio N. Araja

SC suspends Pasay judge over bribery

THE Supreme Court (SC) has placed a Pasay City judge and an acting branch clerk of court under preventive suspension for alleged bribery pending the outcome of the investigation to be conducted by the SC’s Judicial Integrity Board.

In an en banc resolution, the SC initiated administrative proceedings against Judge Alberto T. Cansino and Officerin-Charge/Acting Branch Clerk of Court Mariejoy P. Lagman, both of Pasay City Regional Trial Court, Branch 108, for allegedly accepting P6 million from a litigant in exchange for a favorable judgment in a civil case. To enable the JIB to conduct an unhampered formal investigation, the high court ordered Judge Cansino and OICActing BCC Lagman be preventively suspended for 90 days.

Following an entrapment operation by the National Bureau of Investigation that led to the arrest of Lagman, the SC ordered Court Administrator Raul Villanueva on May 24, 2024 to submit a report on the incident. According to Court Administrator Villanueva, the operation was prompted by an anonymous complaint the JIB received via email. After the NBI verified the information, the entrapment operation was set using five marked One Thousand Peso bills and about P6 milliopn in boodle money. Rey E. Requejo

More than 700 pass Coast Guard course

MORE than 700 trainees under the Coast Guard Non-Officers’ Course (CGNOC) Class 106-2023 “Lahi Mandala,” finished the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) training at the Regional Training Center (RTC)-Zamboanga on May 27. According to the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM), the new “Coast Guardians” surpassed the rigid physical training and academic modules in preparation for their duties and responsibilities to the Filipino nation. Coast Guard Education, Training and Doctrine Command (CGETDC) Commander, Vice Admiral Charlie Rances, congratulated the graduates and urged them to become role models in serving fellow Filipinos.

“Many are called but only few are chosen. Serve the public with integrity, honor, competency, and compassion. Life in the PCG is not easy. We are here to save lives, maintain peace and order, and enforce the law,” Vice Admiral Rances said during his speech. Vince Lopez

Comelec: Rapid progress on 2025 polls

By Vito Barcelo

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) said preparations are progressing rapidly for the 2025 midterm elections, despite a Supreme Court (SC) order that did not include an injunctive writ.

The SC has instructed Comelec and South Korea’s Miru Systems Co. Ltd. to respond to a petition seeking to halt the implementation of the P18 billion Automated Election System

contract for the upcoming polls. Comelec chairperson George Garcia expressed relief and determination in light of the SC’s decision not to interfere with the elec-

tion preparations.

“We are so elated that the High Court did not issue any injunctive writ,” Garcia said. He emphasized that without a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) from the SC, the Comelec will continue its preparations for the May 2025 national and local elections.

The SC has given Comelec and Miru Systems 10 days from receipt of notice to submit their comments on the petition and the application for a TRO and/or writ of prelimi-

Tingog Partylist, Roche sign awareness pact on cancer

TINGOG Partylist and Roche (Philippines) Inc. signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) To raise awareness of breast and cervical cancer and boost the capability of the government to give care and treatment to more women nationwide.

The MOA cements a private-public sector partnership in support of the goals of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA) and the Universal Healthcare Law (UHC), as 2030 Mission Leapfrog aims to improve healthcare outcomes in the Philippines, specifically those for breast and cervical cancer, through components such as education, screening, diagnostics, and treatment accessibility.

CANCER

AWARENESS. Representatives from the Makati Medical Center speak during the  “Cervical Cancer: Di mo DeCerv” event held at a mall in Makati City. The event aims to raise awareness and inspire women to take proactive steps to protect themselves from cervical cancer. Norman Cruz

The parties formally signed the memorandum at the Office of Tingog Partylist at the House of Representatives in Quezon City through Tingog Partylist Rep. Rep. Jude Acidre; Dr. Diana Edralin, General Manager of Roche (Philippines) Inc.; and Dr. Ma. Teresa Dioko, Healthcare Ecosystems Chapter Lead of Roche (Philippines) Inc. With the MOA, Tingog and Roche hope to speed up the transformation of healthcare outcomes in the country by improving the referral system from screening to treatment, through the lens of a breast or cervical cancer

patient and through key partner local government units (LGUs).

“With this agreement, we mark the beginning of a transformative journey with the 2030 Mission Leapfrog Project,” said Tingog Partylist Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez in her message delivered by Rep. Acidre.

“At the heart of Tingog Partylist's mission is a steadfast commitment to championing the health and well-being of our people. Our core agenda has always been focused on fostering healthcare development that directly benefits the lives of those we serve,” she added.

“Our partnership with Roche (Phil-

By Joel E. Zurbano

ippines) Inc. signifies a pivotal step towards realizing this vision. Roche’s global expertise in healthcare innovation, combined with Tingog’s deep understanding of the local landscape, creates a powerful synergy. Together, we are poised to make significant strides in improving the diagnosis and treatment of breast and cervical cancer, thereby enhancing the quality of life for countless individuals,” Rep. Romualdez said.

“Today marks a significant leap forward in our shared commitment to transforming health care outcomes, particularly in the realm of breast cancer and cervical cancer,” Rep. Acidre said.

nary injunction.

Former Caloocan City Representative Edgar Erice filed the petition on April 18. Erice argued that the contract violates provisions of Republic Act 7369, or the Automated Election Law, particularly those related to bidding procedures and the use of prototype machines during elections. Garcia said the Comelec will comply with the SC directive. “We will file the comment accordingly,” he assured.

NPC eyeing Binay as part of Senate slate

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) has announced that it is considering Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay as one of its senatorial candidates in the 2025 midterm elections. Binay took her oath as a member of the party on Tuesday.

Her husband, Makati Rep. Luis Campos, administered the oath of membership in a simple ceremony at the NPC Clubhouse in Quezon City, which was attended by party president Rep. John Michael Duavit, NPC secretary general Mark Llandro Mendoza, and Rep. Jaime Cojuangco.

The NPC previously signed a coalition agreement with the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who witnessed the signing ceremonies.

In a statement, Mayor Binay thanked the NPC for considering her inclusion in its senatorial ticket.

She expressed gratitude to the NPC leadership and her partymates for their trust and confidence.

Binay also emphasized that, for the time being, she will “continue to fulfill her commitment to the people of Makati by improving services and promoting the city as a major tourist and investor destination.”

She also called for a renewal of purpose among political parties, highlighting the importance of working together to address the country’s issues and improve the lives of Filipinos.

Binay was listed as one of the most preferred senatorial candidates in next year’s polls based on the Pulse Asia Research Inc. survey conducted two months ago.

Safety Month this May. MMDA data show there have been approximately 92,583 road crashes every year. Of this figure, 51 percent of the fatalities were drivers, 36 percent were pedestrians, and 13 percent were passengers, according to the Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System of the agency. To address this, the MMDA is developing the MMRSAP in part-

nership with various national agencies and local government units, including the Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Health, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Land Transportation Office, National Capital Region Police Office, Highway Patrol Group, and the University of the Philippines - National Center for Transportation Studies. Their discussions focused on the five pillars of road safety: road safety management, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer road users, and postcrash response.

HONORING THE BRAVE. Security personnel from SM Center Imus, SM City Bacoor, and SM City Imus, gather during a National Flag Day ag-raising ceremony to honor the bravery of the Katipuneros who won the Battle of Alapan in Imus, Cavite. Norman Cruz

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2024

Solon lauds enactment of PENCAS Law IN BRIEF

CDO airport to hold 5-hr. emergency drill

THE Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro will temporarily halt its operations from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to conduct an Aircraft Emergency Full-Scale Exercise.

“In accordance with the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued earlier this month, Laguindingan Airport will suspend its operations from 1:00 p.m to 5:00 p.m. today, May 28, to facilitate the Aircraft Emergency Full-Scale Exercise at the airport,” the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines stated in its advisory.

“Due to the early issuance of the NOTAM, airlines were promptly notified, allowing them ample time to adjust their flight schedules. With this advanced notice, only two flights will be affected during this period,” the agency added. The exercise will feature various emergencies, including aircraft incidents, medical emergencies, and fire outbreaks. The scenarios will test the readiness of the airport’s emergency response teams and foster a seamless operation among various units.

100 Lamao villagers end safety training

AN initial batch of 100 residents of Barangay Lamao in Limay, Bataan have recently complete their four--day free Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) training. Lamao Councilor Pepito Montero who initiated the BOSH training in partnership with AVIE Training Consultancy Services distributed certificates to the graduates. Montero was joined by his colleague Lamao Councilor Edgardo Cortez in the event held at Millennial Hall, Lamao. “Gusto natin matulungan ang ating mga ka-barangay magkaroon ng kaalaman tulad ng pagiging safety officer upang magamit nila sa paghahanap ng Trabaho (We want to help our constituents in the barangays to attain knowledge they can use in job hunting),” Montero said. Many residents of Lamao are requesting for another batch of the BOSH training. Butch Gunio

Teacher from Hagonoy makes waves in US

A SPECIAL education teacher from Hagonoy, Bulacan has been named Teacher of the Year 2022-2023 at the Hisperian Elementary School in California, United States. Billy Esmalde was also nominated for the San Lorenzo

Survey

says Yamsuan top choice for P’que rep

A PARTY-list lawmaker has thanked his “ever-growing number of supporters” in Parañaque as he emerged as the top choice of voters to represent the city’s 2nd district in the upcoming May 2025 elections. According to the results of the “Boses ng Bayan” survey conducted by the RPMission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD) , 42 percent of Parañaque City’s 2nd district voters named Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan of Bicol Saro party-list group as their No. 1 choice to represent them in Congress if elections were held today. Yamsuan’s 42 percent was seven-percentage points higher than the 35 percent garnered by Gus Tambunting, the incumbent representative of the district. Former Parañaque Vice Mayor and now councilor Rico Golez got 12 percent. The independent, non-commissioned survey also showed that 11 percent of voters remain undecided.

“Tayo po ay ay nagpapasalamat ng marami sa suporta ng mga kapwa ko taga-

Parañaque sa Ikalawang Distrito. Hindi lamang sa araw-araw na lumalaking suporta ninyo kami lubos na nagpapasalamat, kundi maging sa pagkakataon na binibigay ninyo para makapaghatid kami ng tulong at maipakitang posible ang taos-pusong serbisyo sa mga Parañaqueño ng 2nd District (“We are grateful for the support of our fellow Parañaque residents in the 2nd district. (We thank you very much not only for your ever-growing support, but also for the opportunity and trust that you continue to give us to be able to extend assistance and show to you that heart-felt service is possible to Parañaqueños in the 2nd district),” Yamsuan said.

. The survey results which showed Yamsuan edging out incumbent officials at this early stage “positions [him] for a potentially decisive victory over his opponents, demonstrating substantial endorsement and strong standing within the district’s voter base,” according to RPMD Executive Director Dr.

Paul Martinez, a global affairs analyst. Conducted from March 18 to March 24 among 1,200 adult respondents, the RPMD voters’ preference survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percent and a confidence level of 95 percent. With Yamsuan as its representative in Congress, Bicol Saro has climbed to 2nd place among the top performing party-list representatives in RPMD’s 1st Quarter Boses ng Bayan survey. Yamsuan was also named by RPMD as its Outstanding Public Servant for 2023. Among Yamsuan’s initiatives for Parañaque’s 2nd District are his Extra Rice Program, Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), Sports Facilities Improvement Program and medical missions in the barangays. While Yamsuan appears to be a new name in Parañaque’s political landscape, he and his family have lived in the city for almost 25 years. Maricel V. Cruz

By Maricel V. Cruz

ACONGRESS

leader on Tuesday lauded the enactment of a law that will provide the government an accounting of the country’s natural resources.

President Marcos signed Republic Act 11995 or the Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System (PENCAS) Act on May 22. The PENCAS law aims to recognize, protect and promote the ecological balance and resilience of the country.

Rep. Eddie Villanueva of CIBAC party-list group, chair of House Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, said RA 11995 institutionalizes environmental and economic accounting frameworks that are accepted internationally.

“We’ve always believed that attaining economic growth does not necessarily mean compromising our God-endowed environmental wealth. With the enactment of the PENCAS law, we are in a better position to achieve sustainable development while promoting the conservation of our environment,” said Villanueva.

Villanueva is the principal author of the law at the House of Representatives.

“By adopting a system that quantifies how we fare in taking care of our environment, we will be pushed to be more accountable and responsible stewards of our natural resources,” he added.

Villar pushes dev’t of livestock, dairy, poultry industries CHR

discusses plight of female prisoners in Asia-Pacific forum

By Rio N. Araja

THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday said it has discussed rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives for women deprived of liberty before women-judges from Asia-Pacific.

The Commission represented by Commissioner Faydah Maniri Dumarpa recently took part in the 2024 Asia and the Pacific Regional Conference of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) and the 2024 National Convention of the Philippine Women Judges Association. Dumarpa tackled the current conditions of Philippine prisons and how it affected the situation of women deprived of liberty during her talk titled “Rehabilitation and Social Reintegration of Women Prisoners and Offenders, and Alternatives to Imprisonment

for Women Offenders.” With the theme “Women Lead: Transforming Asia-Pacific and Changing the World,” female judges all over the AsiaPacific region gathered to highlight their important role in shaping the judiciary and upholding the rule of law.

“While efforts are being undertaken to address congestion and human rights issues of women deprived of liberty, the facts indicate that many detainees, most especially women detainees, are currently living in conditions below international human rights standards,” Dumarpa said.

As part of CHR’s protection mandate, she cited the need to attend to the gender, age and disability specific needs of women in detention as part of government efforts in recognizing women’s vulnerabilities especially within the context of gender-based violence.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Cynthia Villar pushes the development of the livestock, poultry and dairy industry in a bid to ensure national food sufficiency, .

“These industries account for more than a quarter of agricultural output in 2023,” said Villar, chairperson ng Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food.

About 29.8 percent of Filipino protein consumption come from pork and chicken.

Villar also warned of protein deficiency and malnutrition if Filipinos are no longer capable of buying these products due to high cost.

“The hog sector in the country is still struggling against the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak since 2019 and needs to bounce back to support small hog raisers and commercial farms,” Villar said.

The ASF was blamed for the P100billion losses in the agriculture sector.

The senator also said the hog sector in the country was still struggling against the ASF outbreak since 2019. It needs to bounce back to support small hog raisers and commercial farms.

He also cited the need for the poultry sector to have sustainable inputs like feeds and medicines against pets and diseases for a more efficient production system.

NEW PCSO CHAIRMAN. Former president of the Philippine Judges Association and retired Marikina Regional Trial Judge Felix Reyes takes his oath as chairman of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office before Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. Reyes was accompanied by PCSO general manager Mel Robles.

REMEMBERING THE WAR HEROES. The Imus City government in Cavite and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines pay tribute to the war heroes who fought for independence and earned their first victory against the Spaniards in May 1898. The event was marked by the raising of a the Philippine colors at the National Flag Shrine and Imus Heritage Park in Barangay Alapan. Danny Pata

MEAT INSPECTON. Agriculture Undersecretary DV Savellano inspects meats for sale at a supermarket in Muñoz, Quezon City. The visit was done to ensure that there is sufficient supply of affordable meat products in the markets. Manny Palmero

OPINION

Business first, conservation second?

CITY dwellers need not go far and wide to enjoy Nature and the great outdoors.

There’s nearby Rizal province, for instance, that’s fast developing into a popular tourist destination with its mountainous terrain, spectacular overlooking views and resorts with natural spring water.

Among the more accessible ones in the province is the Masungi Georeserve. Its website explains that it is a conservation area and a rustic rock garden tucked in the rainforests of Rizal.

The “Masungi” name is said to be derived from the word “masungki” which translates to “spiked,” referring to the sprawling limestone landscape found within the area.

Masungi says it is a sanctuary where guests would be able to commune with Nature, and reenergize themselves while doing so.

By wandering through pathways, guests can become familiar with various wildlife and plant species.

Masungi has been declared a locallyprotected area, providing the Tanay local government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources authority to oversee the protection and conservation of the karst (limestone region) and the various flora and fauna within its vicinity.

The Masungi Rock Management Council, composed of representatives from the DENR, Laguna Lake Development Authority, provincial and local governments, as well as the academe, is the park’s governing body.

But Masungi Georeserve is not just a conservation area but actually operates as a business enterprise. It profits from the use of the land through ecotourism, events, accommodations, dining, and other activities which include prenuptial photoshoots, meeting spaces for events and seminars and weddings ranging from P20,000 to P160,000.

It also charges visitors conservation fees amounting to P1,500 on weekdays and P1,800 on weekends.

The ecotourism operations of Masungi Georeserve appear lucrative given their price range.

The legacy trail costs P1,500 for a minimum of seven people while Silayan Hall can be rented for P120,000 for 10 hours.

Other areas such as Tipunan, Dasalan and Pine Patch can be rented for P155,000. The Kanlungan Lodges has five elegant glass huts which cost a whopping P100,000 per night.

But the DENR says none of these facilities had the requisite clearances and permits from the Protected Area Management Board or local governments.

When Masungi entered into the controversial 2017 Memorandum of Agreement with the DENR, it claimed its operations are subject to the National Integrated Protected Areas System Act in areas covered by the Upper Marikina

River Basin Protected Landscape and Kaliwa River Forest Reserve.

The NIPAS Act of 1992 established a system of protected areas in the Philippines.

The law covers areas that are habitats of rare and endangered species, biogeographic zones and related ecosystems, whether terrestrial, wetland or marine.

The law, which provides for the management and conservation of these areas and their buffer zones, was was amended in 2018 to strengthen its provisions and declare more areas as protected.

Masungi’s development plans, according to the DENR, are not aligned with the PAMB’s Management Plan and Management Zones as required by law and therefore causes conflicts in the supervision and management of the area by both the PAMB and MGFI.

MGFI’s role as the caretaker of Masungi must reply to questions: One, what are they really undertaking as part of conservation programs in the area? Two, how would they justify the high fees they charge users of their facilities?

In addition, several resolutions have been issued by the local governments of Tanay and Baras condemning the development happening in the area and prohibiting the continuation of such activities.

In 2016, in a resolution, the Sangguniang Bayan of Tanay ordered the immediate dismantling of the perimeter fence installed by Blue Star Development Corporation, a construction firm, along what appeared to be a road widening area.

Later, in another resolution, the Tanay SB ordered the temporary suspension in the issuance of any permit to BSDC due to the absence of requisite safety measures.

Recently, photos have also surfaced in the media about developments occurring within the area covered by the MOA. What also raised concerns among environmentalists is the involvement of BSDC, which has been helping MGFI construct structures in Masungi.

Given all these, MGFI’s role as the caretaker of Masungi must reply to questions: One, what are they really undertaking as part of conservation programs in the area? Two, how would they justify the high fees they charge users of their facilities? (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

For deaf children in Pakistan, school is life

LAHORE, Pakistan

– At a school for the deaf in Pakistan, the faces of students are animated, their smiles mischievous, as their hands twirl in tandem with their sign language teacher.

The quiet classes exude joy, led often by teachers who are also deaf.

“I have friends, I communicate with them, joke with them, we share our stories with each other about what we have done and not done, we support each other,” said Qurat-ul-Ain, an 18-year-old deaf woman who joined the school a year ago.

More than 200 pupils, children and adults mostly from disadvantaged backgrounds, are among the few given a new fervor for life at this inner-city school in historic Lahore.

Of more than a million deaf school-age children in Pakistan, less than five percent go to school.

The figure is even lower for girls and, without a language to express themselves, many children are marginalized by society and even their families.

“Life is a little difficult. There is a huge communication gap here where people generally don’t know sign language,” said Qurat-ul-Ain.

At the school run by charity Deaf Reach, pupils learn sign language in English and Urdu before progressing on to the national curriculum.

Everyone has a name in sign language, which often has to do with a physical characteristic.

Younger children learn with visuals: a word and a sign are associated with an image. Their peers turn their thumbs down for a wrong answer and make the applause sign

-- twisting hands –- for a correct one.

Founded in 1998 by an American and funded with donations, Deaf Reach now has eight schools across the country, educating 2,000 students on a “pay what you can afford” basis, with 98 percent of children on scholarships.

The vast majority of students at the school come from hearing families, who are also offered the chance to learn how to sign and break the language barrier with their son or daughter.

—“—

The quiet classes exude joy, led often by teachers who are also deaf

Adeela Ejaz explained how she struggled to come to terms with her first born son -- now 10 years old -- being deaf.

“When I couldn’t understand what he was trying to say he would bang his head against the wall and floor,” the 35-year-old told AFP.

“It was tough for everyone because noone knew how to communicate with him.

Everyone would tell us he is deaf but I wasn’t prepared to accept that.”

The mother and son pair are now both learning to sign.

“I am getting better at signing and I am able to communicate with my son. He’s now become so attached to me.”

The programme makes extensive use of technology, and offers an online dictionary

Now, it’s Masungi Georeserve

EARLIER this year, the Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort Bohol was temporarily closed by the Department of Environment and Natural Rescourses following a strong backlash and criticism surrounding its construction within the protected Chocolate Hills.

The resort ,opened to the public in 2022, announced its temporary closure on March 14 this year after the online roar. The DENR revealed the resort lacked an environmental compliance certificate.

How it was able to construct all those buildings remains unanswered.

Now, another issue, physically closer to the national capital, is raising similar concerns after House Deputy Minority leader and ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro urged the House leadership to investigate the commercial encroachments of various resorts within the Masungi Georeserve in Tanay, Rizal, only 63 kilometers from Luneta in Manila.

Masungi Georeserve is a protected nature and tourism site under threat from harmful development, which has unique limestone crags and fragile forest which serve as a filter for essential waterways, protecting nearby cities from flooding.

Earlier reports showed the Masungi Georeserve Foundation Inc. called the attention of Erin’s Place and Lihim na Batis on March 19.

—“—

There is really a need to monitor the protected areas nationwide, and be on the lookout for what the Protected Area Management Boards do

These two resorts are in an area within the Upper Marikina River Basin, under Baras town, also in Rizal province.

We agree with Castro when she stressed the importance of the watershed to residents within the area and Metro Manila, especially during the rainy season – now on the doorstep of the metropolis and surrounding provinces, aggra-

THE FAMAS event organizers’ snub of veteran actress Eva Darren is unconscionable despite their crisis-response and inadequate apology, given the level of disrespect they showed.

Ms. Darren’s son Dr. Fernando de la Peña’s Facebook post on the incident went viral with over 39,000 shares and 227,000 likes as of yesterday. This virality helped spread the news and garner much sympathy for Darren.

According to de la Peña, FAMAS organizers invited Darren to present the awards for special citation alongside veteran actor Christopher de Leon on their Awards Night last May 26.

Darren, as a consummate professional, memorized the script for the presentation well before the scheduled event, bought a new outfit, and made sure her hair and makeup would represent her and the event well.

She also spent P5,000 a plate for four grandchildren to accompany her to the event.

But on the night itself, to her dismay, someone else appeared on stage beside de Leon as presenter.

Perhaps in response to the overwhelming backlash against them, FAMAS issued a statement of apology, claiming that because they “were running a live show, and due to myriads of people present in last night’s festivities, the production team was not able to locate Ms. Darren…The show is being streamed live and needed to be remedied right away. Hence, a replacement for Miss Darren was done last minute.”

The FAMAS statement also mentioned this “was indeed a setback in the live show and a negligence on the part of the team. Rest assured this was not intentional and purely a misjudgment.”

As an events organizer myself in a past life, I find this excuse extremely difficult to swallow.

First, organizers should have all people involved accounted for and ready be-

and a phone app.

It has also found employment for more than 2,000 deaf people with around 50 Pakistani companies.

Huzaifa, 26, who became deaf after contracting a fever at a young age, was given a stitching apprenticeship at Deaf Reach to help him into the skilled workforce.

“Teachers in the government school didn’t know any sign language. They would just write notes on the board and tell us to copy it. We used to get really disheartened, and I would be extremely worried for my future,” he told AFP.

His family pushed for him to become educated, helping him to learn the basics of sign language before he received formal coaching.

“My parents never threw me away. They

vated by the incoming La Niña weather phenomenon.

We cannot over-emphasize her disquietude, if apprehension, that some entities can do what they did in Bohol and in other regions that authorize non-sustainable activities in protected areas.

She is on track in saying laws are not being followed and therefore there is a need to investigate, posthaste, these activities – by private individuals and the seeming lack of a stronger implementation of our laws by those in some government agencies – by Congress before it is too late.

Last March 21, the foundation announced it had found seven more resorts and private developments in areas covered by the Upper Marikina River Basin Protected Landscape.

There is really a need to monitor the protected areas nationwide, and be on the lookout for what the Protected Area Management Boards do to spring forth surprises by authorizing non-sustainable activities in protected areas.

We note that in the Philippines, only three percent of primary forests remain due to rampant deforestation, mineral extraction, and poor environmental enforcement.

The area of Masungi Georeserve is a microcosm of these problems in a highly sensitive karst landscape which serves as a natural filter for vital waterways. We are following developments.

Eva Darren-FAMAS: Where’s the respect?

fore their actual ‘go-time.’ Also, if they were really trying to locate Darren among the “myriads” of people there, why didn’t they have an announcer make a public call for her to go backstage? This flimsy excuse is merely that – an attempt to try and defuse the situation.

FAMAS’s uncouth and unprofessional behavior showed a lack of ‘pakikipagkapwa’ along with a blatant violation of the norm of respect

Second, netizens are sharing materials that show Darren wasn’t truly considered part of the event. One of these is a pubmat or art card with photos of all the presenters except Darren, and a photo of an event sequence guide showing it was actress Nova Villa who was to take the stage with de Leon. As it happened, it was young singer Sheena Palad who presented the award. In her account, she says she was requested to perform two songs, then asked a “big favor” from a staffer who asked her to present awards.

Darren’s family graciously accepted FAMAS’s apology, in a move that sets a genuinely good, proper, and classy example for others.

The reason this incident reached such a resonant pitch in the discourse is because, for one thing, a deeply-held value in Filipino culture was violated. This is respect for others, particularly elders (Darren is 77).

spared no effort in ensuring I was able to continue my education,” he said. Without their dedication, he said: “I’d be working as a day labourer somewhere, cutting leaves or cementing walls.” Sign language varies from one country to another, with its own associated culture, and regional variations sometimes exist. According to World Federation of the Deaf, 80 percent of the approximately 70 million deaf people in the world have no access to education.

“I used to sit idly at home, use the mobile or play outside. I never had a clue about what people were saying,” said Faizan, 21, who has been at Deaf Reach for 11 years and dreams of working abroad.

“Before learning how to sign I used to feel very weak mentally and had an infe-

“Paggalang sa kapwa” is ingrained in the Filipino psyche. It plays a crucial role in maintaining social harmony and communal bonds. It is manifested in various ways, including the use of polite language, courteous gestures, and a general attitude of consideration and empathy towards others.

This respect is not merely a formality but a core value that shapes the Filipino way of life. Thus we treat each other with respect no matter their social standing, employment, or other status.

To show this respect to others, we often use kinship terms such as ‘ate’ or ‘manong,’ at least until recent years, when “ma’am/sir” became the ubiquitous form of polite address.

The honorific ‘po’ has not disappeared, and is in fact adopted by some foreigners who reside here; for instance, I have a Chinese student who liberally peppers her emails to me with ‘po.’ Filipinos are known for their strong sense of “kapwa,” or shared identity, which emphasizes collective well-being over individual interests. By showing respect for others, Filipinos strengthen this sense of unity and ensure that everyone feels valued and included. This mutual respect helps build trust and cooperation, which are essential for a harmonious society.

FAMAS’s uncouth and unprofessional behavior showed a lack of “pakikipagkapwa” along with a blatant violation of the norm of respect. What are the odds this incident will have repercussions on their credibility as an organization?

My two cents? Don’t think of this so much as a PR disaster (which it is) and make further clumsy attempts at damage control, but rather as a mistake and error that should be repaired and amended with genuine contriteness, remorse, and a promise to do better going forward. * * * FB and (X): @DrJennyO / Email: writerjennyo@gmail.com

riority complex and fear. But thankfully there is none of that anymore.”

Attitudes towards people with disabilities are slowly improving in Pakistan, which has introduced laws against discrimination.

“We have seen over the years the mentality change tremendously. From many people hiding their deaf children, feeling embarrassed, ashamed,” noted Daniel Marc Lanthier, director of operations of the foundation behind Deaf Reach. Nowadays families are “coming out in the open, asking for education for their children, asking to find employment for them,” he said, though much work remains.

“With a million deaf children who don’t have access to school, it’s a huge challenge, it’s a huge goal to be met.” AFP

HOPES

CIRCULAR No.: 2024-003 Date: March 04, 2024

TO : All Heads of Departments, Bureaus, Commissions, Boards, and Office of the National Government Agencies including State Universities and Colleges; Government Corporations including their Subsidiaries and Water Districts; Government Financial Institutions; Local Government Units; Chiefs of Financial Management and Service; Chief AccountantslHeads of Accounting Units; Commission on Audit Assistant Commissioners, Directors, Officers-in-Charge, Auditors; and All Others Concerned

SUBJECT : Amendment to Section 3, Rule XIII of the 2009 Revised Rules of Procedure of the Commission on Audit, as amended by COA Resolution No. 2023-0101 dated August 7,2023

1.0 RATIONALE/PURPOSE

1.1 Section 6, Article IX-A of the 1987 Philippine Constitution has vested this Commission the authority to promulgate its own rules concerning pleadings and practice before it or before any of its offices. Such rules, however, shall not diminish, increase, or modify substantive rights. Pursuant thereto, this Commission issued the 2009 Revised Rules of Procedure of the Commission on Audit (RRPC) effective October 28,2009.

1.2 Section 3(a), Rule XIII ofthe RRPC vests upon the Director the authority to issue the COA Order of Execution (COE) for Notice of Finality of Decision (NFD) issued by him and by the Auditor.

1.3 Considering the term “Director” in Section 3 (a), Rule XIII of the RRPC, and its amendment under Item 3 of COA Resolution No. 2023-010 dated August 7,2023, is used in its generic form, confusion arose as to who shall issue COEs for NFDs in the Regions. Thus, the need for this clarificatory issuance to delineate further the jurisdiction between the Cluster Director (CD) and the Regional Director (RD) of the Commission to complement with the unified audit approach.2

2.0 COVERAGE

This Circular shall apply to all CDs and RDs of this Commission.

3.0 GUIDELINES

3.1 The term director shall refer to the CDs of the Corporate Government Audit Sector (CGAS), the National Government Audit Sector (NGAS), and the Local Government Audit Sector (LGAS) in the National Capital Region (NCR), or the RDs in the regional offices of the Commission.

3.2 The CDs of the CGAS, NGAS, and LGAS-NCR have jurisdiction over appeals from Notices of Disallowance (NDs)/Notices of Charge (NCs)/Orders or Decisions issued by their respective Supervising Auditors (SAs)/Regional Supervising Auditors (RSAs)/Audit Team Leaders (ATLs).3

3.3 The RDs have jurisdiction over appeals from NDs/NCs/Orders or Decisions issued by the SAs/RSAs/ATLs of Local Government Units, Water Districts, State Universities and Colleges, and stand-alone agencies within their respective regions.4

3.4 Considering the above, Section 3, Rule XIII of the RRPC is hereby amended to read as follows:

Section 3. COA Order of Execution (COE) In case of failure of the person( s) liable to refund the amount of final and executory audit disallowances and charges, as provided in the preceding section, a COE addressed to the Head of Agency directing the Cashier/Treasurer/Disbursing Officer to withhold payment of any money due such person( s) shall be issued by the following:

a. CD - for NFDs issued by him/her and his/her SA/RSA/ATL to the concerned Government Corporations, National Government Agencies, and their regional/field offices; and Local Government Units, in the National Capital Region

b. RD - for NFDs issued by him/her and his/her SA/ RSA/ATL to the concerned Local Government Units, Water Districts, State Universities and Colleges, and Stand Alone Agencies

c. General Counsel - for NFDs issued by the Office of the Commission Secretariat and for judgments rendered by the Supreme Court pertinent to cases elevated thereto via petitions for certiorari.

The COE shall be issued for a period of not less than five (5) days from receipt by the Head of Agency of a copy of the duly served NFD from the SA/RSA/ATL, CD/RD, Commission Secretary, or of the Entry of Judgment from the Supreme Court, whichever is applicable.

No COE shall be issued on NFD involving money claims, the directive in the NFD being sufficient to initiate the process of payment.

4.0 SAVING CLAUSE

In the event that any of the provision of this Circular is declared invalid or unconstitutional, all the provisions not affected thereby shall remain valid and with legal effect.

5.0

More survivors ‘unlikely’ from PNG fatal landslip

PORT MORESBY, Papua New Guinea – It is “very unlikely” more survivors of Papua New Guinea’s deadly landslide will be found, a UN agency warned Tuesday, as thousands at risk from further slips were ordered to evacuate.

Some 2,000 people are feared buried by a massive landslide that entombed a remote highland community in the early hours of May 24. Since then, locals have been picking through a hellscape of meters-deep churnedup earth, uprooted trees and car-sized boulders in the search for loved ones -- often using little more than their hands, shovels and

digging sticks.

But hopes are dimming that anyone is alive underneath the mountain of rubble.

“It is not a rescue mission, it is a recovery mission,” UNICEF Papua New Guinea’s Niels Kraaier told AFP. “It is very unlikely they will have survived.”

Full-scale rescue and relief efforts have been severely hampered by the remote location, the only road link being severed, heavy rainfall and nearby tribal violence.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Forces have struggled to access the site with heavy earth-moving equipment.

Early on Tuesday, Enga provincial administrator Sandis Tsaka warned the disaster could worsen further, as clumps of limestone, dirt and rock continue to shear off the side of Mount Mungalo.

Tsaka told AFP authorities were now trying to coordinate the evacuation of almost

EU top diplomat says Ukraine has right to use Western

weapons to strike Russia

BRUSSELS, Belgium – EU foreign policy chief

Josep Borrell on Tuesday urged countries to balance fear of escalation against Ukraine’s need to defend itself, saying Kyiv had the right to use Western arms to strike in Russia.

“According with the law of war, it is perfectly possible and there is no contradiction.

“I could retaliate or I could fight against the one who fights against me from his territory,” Borrell said at the start of a meeting with European Union defense ministers.

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT

NOTICE is hereby given that the estate of the late ENRIQUE C. REGALADO (a.k.a. ENRIQUE C. REGALADO, SR.) has been extra-judicially settled among his heirs, as per Doc. No. 178; Page No. 36; Book No. CXLV; Series of 2024 before Notary Public ATTY. JOSE MA. B. TORRES. (MS-MAY 22/29/JUNE 5, 2024)

“You have to balance the risk of escalation and the need for Ukrainians to defend.” Ukraine has been pressing its Western backers to allow it to hit targets in Russia us-

ing the longer-range weaponry Kyiv’s supporters are supplying.

Key backers including the United States and Germany have been reluctant to permit Kyiv to strike over the border out of fear that it could drag them closer to direct conflict with Moscow.

Borrell’s assertion was backed up by several other defense ministers at the gathering in Brussels.

Dutch minister Kajsa Ollongren said The Netherlands had no restrictions and that she hoped “other countries that have different positions will change that”.

“It is quite feasible that they have to strike also inside Russia,” Ollongren said.

“My perspective (is) that should not be the debate.”

Estonia’s Hanno Pevkur said he “truly hopes that all the countries who have these assets will also give the permission to Ukraine”. AFP

UN Security Council to meet over Israeli strikes on Rafah

(MS-MAY 29, 2024)

NOTICE

Notice

QUEZON, INC. is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as Renewable Energy Developer of Solar Energy Resources (37.801 MWp/ 27.000 MWac Pagbilao 2 Solar Power Project) in Brgys. Ilayang Palsabangon and Ibabang Palsabangon, Municipality of Pagbilao, Quezon Province to avail of the incentives under R.A. No. 9513, otherwise known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.

Any person with valid objection/s on the abovementioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication/ posting.

(SGD.) RACQUEL B. ECHAGUE

Director Resource-Based Industries Service

(MS-MAY 29, 2024)

RAFAH, Palestinian Territories – The UN Security Council was set to convene an emergency meeting Tuesday over an Israeli strike that killed dozens in a displaced persons camp in Rafah, as three European countries were slated to formally recognise a Palestinian state.

AFP journalists on the ground early Tuesday reported fresh Israeli strikes overnight in the southern Gaza border city, where an Israeli attack targeting two senior Hamas members on Sunday night sparked a fire that ripped through a displacement center, killing 45, according to Gaza health officials.

The attack prompted a wave of international condemnation, with Palestinians and many Arab countries calling it a “massacre”. Israel said it was looking into the “tragic accident”. AFP

7,900 more people.

“The tragedy is still active,” he said. “Every hour you can hear rock breaking -- it is like a bomb or gunshot and the rocks keep falling down.”

Aid officials said many residents were refusing to leave at-risk areas because they were holding out hope of finding loved ones.

Satellite images show the enormous scale of the disaster.

A vast smear of yellow and grey debris can be seen cutting through once verdant bushland and severing the region’s only road.

“This was an area heavily populated with homes, businesses, churches and schools, it has been completely wiped out. It is the surface of the moon -- it is just rocks,” said Tsaka.

“People are digging with their hands and fingers,” he said, expressing anguish at the unde-resourced government’s inability to meet the enormity of the disaster. AFP

IN BRIEF

Lai tells troops: Make Taiwan ‘safer’

HUALIEN, Taiwan – Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te thanked troops on Tuesday after China held military exercises around the self-ruled island, as he urged them to help make it “safer”. Three days after Lai was sworn into office, warships and fighter jets encircled Taiwan in drills China said were a test of its ability to seize the island it claims as part of its territory.

Lai vowed in his inaugural speech to defend Taiwan’s democracy and freedom, which Beijing said amounted to a “confession of independence”.

Speaking during a visit to an air force base in eastern Hualien on Tuesday, Lai toasted the troops for their hard work “in response to China’s military exercises” -- his first direct reference to the war games on Thursday and Friday.

“Let’s work together and continue to work hard to make our country safer,” he said.

“Everyone is on standby 24 hours a day to perform air patrol missions... All brothers and sisters use their firm determination and outstanding combat skills to demonstrate their air combat capabilities and protect our airspace,” he added. AFP

Japanese city recognizes same-sex partnership

TOKYO – A Japanese city has registered a same-sex couple as partners under the same address, an unusual step hailed by the men as “groundbreaking” in a country without marriage equality.

In Japan, everyone registers their address with local authorities, and Keita Matsuura, 38, told AFP he used to be listed separately from his partner Yutaro Fujiyama, despite living together.

When the pair moved to Omura, in the southern region of Nagasaki, they told city authorities that they wanted to be registered together, like a married couple would be.

Initially, the city offered to register Fujiyama as Matsuura’s relative, but after discussions, they agreed this month to register him like a husband, Matsuura said Tuesday.

Japan is the only G7 nation that does not recognize same-sex unions, and local media said the move was unprecedented. Although the registration is not the same as legal marriage, Matsuura said he was “surprised and very happy”.

“I couldn’t stop dancing and smiling,” he said.

“I think it’s a groundbreaking decision -- a step further than the non-legally-binding partnership system” under which municipalities issue certificates to gay couples, he said. AFP

DIMMING. This undated handout photo taken by the UN Development Program and released on Tuesday shows locals reacting during search and rescue efforts at the site of a landslide at Mulitaka village in Maip Mulitaka, in Papua New Guinea’s Enga

Full IRONMAN, 70.3 Subic stake slots in 3 world tilts

THE fourth Century Tuna Full IRONMAN Philippines and the 11th IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay on June 9 at the Subic Bay Boardwalk are not just endurance races but epic quests that offer 100 coveted slots for three prestigious World Championships.

For 25 male triathletes, the path leads to the sacred grounds of Kona, Hawaii, from Oct. 22-28 where they will join elite athletes in the Full IM World Championships, facing a grueling 140.6-mile (3.8km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run) journey that tests every fiber of their being with an ocean swim, a hinterland bike course and a coastal run.

Simultaneously, 15 females athletes will seize their chance to shine on the global stage at the IM World Championship in Nice, France from Sept. 2428 in a gathering of both professionals and age-group competitors to a race renowned for its breathtaking scenery and challenging course.

The IM 70.3 Subic Bay (1.9km swim, 90km bike, 21.1km run), on the other hand, offers 45 age-group qualifying slots to the Vinfast IM 70.3 World Championship in Taupo, New Zealand on Dec. 14-15 where qualifiers will be rewarded with more than just a race— they will immerse themselves in New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture, making every mike a memory to cherish.

In a pioneering move for gender equality, an additional 15 berths are reserved exclusively for female participants, reaffirming the event’s commitment to promoting women in endurance sports.

Adding an extra layer of excitement, the first Century Tuna Super Bods Underpants Run kicks off the IRONMAN weekend on June 7. The free 5k fun run, limited to 550 participants aged 18-andabove, sets the stage for camaraderie and spirit ahead of the main events. Teams will also compete in the Team Tents Competition, fostering community and support among participants. The top team will win P10,000 in cash and an additional P10,000 worth of Century Tuna and Vita Coco products.

in their men’s singles match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Day 2 of The French Open tennis tournament at The Roland Garros Complex in Paris. AFP

Nadal out of possible final French Open, Swiatek wins

PARI—Rafael Nadal’s illustrious French Open career came to a likely end with his first ever defeat in the opening round by Alexander Zverev on Monday, after Iga Swiatek made a winning start in her bid for a fourth title.

Nadal matched world number four Zverev for long periods on a packed Court Philippe Chatrier, but slipped to a 6-3, 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 loss as he was beaten for just the fourth time in 116 matches at the tournament.

This year’s event was expected to be the 14-time champion’s farewell to Roland Garros, but he had since insisted he could not confirm “100 percent” it would be his last appearance.

“If it is (the last time), then you have been amazing,” Nadal told an adoring crowd under the Chatrier roof.

“The feelings I have today are difficult to describe in words. It is the place I love the most.”

Nadal, who turns 38 next week, showed all his trademark fighting qualities in a gripping match, but only managed to convert two of 11 break points against an inspired opponent.

“The first round wasn’t ideal,” he admitted, before saying he “hoped” to be back at Roland Garros later this summer for the Paris Olympics but would almost certainly skip Wimbledon.

“It will be difficult playing on

grass considering that right after Wimbledon are the Olympic Games.”

It was only Nadal’s fifth tournament since January 2023 after suffering a hip injury and then a muscle tear, arriving in Paris a lowly 275th in the world rankings.

“It’s hard to say about the future,” he added. “I am travelling with my family and I am having fun. The body is feeling better than it did two months ago.”

Nadal was unseeded for the draw and vulnerable to a difficult opening round.

German Zverev, who lifted the Rome Open title last month, proved too strong despite the fans desperately attempting to raise Nadal to past glories.

The 27-year-old banished the memories of the duo’s last meeting, when he left Chatrier court on a wheelchair

Lee feels pressure ahead of ONE debut: I’ll be ready for it

THERE will be plenty of eyes on Adrian Lee, the youngest member of the famous Lee martial arts family, when he makes his long-awaited debut in ONE Championship on June 9.

The 18-year-old debuts in the world’s largest martial arts organization when he battles Antonio Mammarella at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II inside the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

He’ll face a certain level of expectations on that day, especially as he trains under the watchful eyes of his older brother, ONE Lightweight and Welterweight MMA World Champion Christian Lee.

But he doesn’t mind, because with family behind him, he feels he can overcome anything.

“Of course, all the competition that I’ve had previous to this are all things that will help me handle the pressure. But, I just believe in my training and when the time comes, I’ll be ready for it,” he said.

“For the interviews, I’m practicing with my family and I’m getting my advice from them too, so I’ll be ready.”

Lee understands that he’s stepping into big shoes, as his brother isn’t only a successful World Champion in ONE, he’s also keen on getting things done before the final bell.

But the young Lee is wise beyond his age. He plans to go in there and take the finish if it presents itself, but he won’t force it.

Like a grizzled veteran, all he cares about is getting it done and scoring his first victory in ONE Championship.

“I got a chance to watch [his pro debut] fight. He was pretty decent in striking and wrestling, and I think those would probably be his strengths,” Lee said.

“Of course, the ideal scenario would first off just be to finish as fast as possible in round one, either by TKO or submission, whatever comes first.

“However, my main goal is just to get out there, win, and finish.”

Ms. ROTC Games Visayas 3rd placer tops long jump

BACOLOD—Navy cadette Carlo Mae Ongayo will have a pretty dilemma when she competes in the Philippine ROTC Games national finals in Indang, Cavite in August.

As third placer in the Ms. Philippine ROTC Games Visayas leg, not only will the comely student prepare for the pageant, but now she will also have to train.

Underscoring that she is not merely beauty and brains, Ms. Philippine ROTC Games Visayan leg third-placer and Navy cadette Carla Mae Ongayo showcased her athleticism as well on Tuesday in ruling the women’s long jump at the Panaad Park and Sports Complex oval here.

Small but dynamic as former Asian women’s long jump queen Marestella Torres-Sunang, Ongayo secured the gold on her second try of 4.28 meters early in the morning for a spot in her pet event in the PH ROTC Games national finals in Indang, Cavite in August.

Sharing the spotlight was prolific Navy cadet swimmer Marvic Iguidez, who had perfect sweep of his five individual events in

adding the men’s 100 and 200-meter backstroke mints in the meet supported by the Commission on Higher Education and Department of National Defense.

The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University marine engineering student copped the men’s 100 back in 1:12.33 before capping his memorable outing in clocking 2:42.55 in the 200 back of the Games also backed by the Philippine Sports Commission and Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino.

“Masaya akong nanalo kasi ito talaga ang event ko,” said Ongayo, 20, a BS Criminology freshman student at Siquijor State College, who saw action in the 2019 Palarong Pambansa held in Davao City and finished in the top eight of the high school division of the girls’ long jump.

“Talagang masaya kasi matagal din hindi nakapaglaro dahil sa (COVID-19) pandemic,” added Ongayo, who has a personal best of five meters flat in the long jump after her performance witnessed by Tolentino, the father of the PH ROTC Games.

after injuring his ankle during their 2022 French Open semi-final. His reward for becoming just the third player to defeat Nadal at Roland Garros—after Novak Djokovic and Robin Soderling—is a match against either David Goffin or home wildcard Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. Zverev’s fast start Zverev started the match strongly with a break to love in the opening game, going on to wrap up the first set with relative ease.

Nadal was much improved from his most recent outing, when he was well beaten by Hubert Hurkacz in the Rome second round, but failed to serve out the second set when leading 5-4. Zverev then came out on top in a tense tie-break as a Nadal return found the net. AFP

Focus on Altiche, Villamor as Calderon Open tennis unwraps

TOP seed John Mari Altiche and doubles partner No. 2 Alberto Villamor face early challenges in their quest for the men’s singles Open title and the honor of becoming the inaugural Mayor Doc Totep Calderon National Tennis champion, taking on Aeyshaun Gomez and Guillani Antonio, respectively, at the Lado Del Rio Resort in Roxas, Isabela today (Wednesday, May 29).

Third-ranked John Jeric Accion clashes with Bryan Oliveros, while No. 4 Alexis Santos tests the skills of Kier Manuel in the other featured matches marking the start of the five-day tournament, co-organized by the Palawan Pawnshop National Tennis Championships (PPS NTC) and the Cagayan Valley Tennis Federation (CAVALTEF), aiming to enhance and elevate the tennis program in Cagayan Valley.

The men’s Open doubles event also promises exciting action, with Altiche and Villamor headlining the field, that includes the pairs of Accion and Santos, Ivan Manila and Oliveros, and Marcvin Marques and Latrell Javier. The women’s doubles roster features the tandems of Brasilia Uy-Ysabelle Uy, as well as Zeida Amales and Beverly Ortiz.

In the mixed doubles category, Brasilia Uy will team up with Marquez, while Gabrielle Marilon pairs with Jan Kevin Javier. These duos are expected to vie for the championship in an event that forms part of the PPS NTC’s ongoing effort to promote the sport in Region II, ensuring the region keeps pace with tennis programs across the country.

Adding to the excitement of Week 2, the tournament, sponsored by Mayor Doc Totep Calderon, will feature Legends categories for players in their 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s. Teams include Nico Dee and Niño Mabazza, Mark Chy and Erwin Cruz, Jeric Suyu and Roger Espinosa, Ryan Bajet-Reynante Galvante, Robert Puyaoan and Elias Villanueva, and Ferdinand Flores and Edmund Uy.

Spain’s Rafael Nadal gestures to the public as he leaves the court after losing against Germany’s Alexander Zverev

Adrian Lee (left) with his brother Christian

Pretty Navy cadette Carlo Mae Ongayo shows her winning form in the ROTC lung jump.

Bacyadan pummels Spanish foe, takes on Hungarian next

Suzuki, Handog lead JPGT Pradera

LUBAO, Pampanga—Ryuki Suzuki and Georgina Handog shone in the opening round of the Junior Philippine Golf Tour Luzon Series 2, seizing the lead in the 8-10 age category with 72 and 87, respectively, even as Jiwon Lee scorched the Pradera Verde course with an eagle-spiked 66 in the premier division here yesterday (Tuesday).

Both Suzuki and Handog navigated the challenging greens with commendable skill with the former rebounding from early setbacks, securing birdies on Nos. 5 and 14 to edge out Jose Luis Espinosa by one stroke with a 37-35. Espinosa, who led after 12 holes with a two-birdie, one-bogey card, stumbled with a double-bogey on the 16th for a 73, allowing the Splendido Taal leg winner to finish ahead in the 36-hole competition.

Monte Andaman trailed in third with a 92.

THE Philippines’ Hergie Bacyadan overcame frayed nerves with prayer to gain a “fighting mindset” on Monday evening, May 27, pummeling Spain’s Dunia Mas Martinez in their women’s 75-kg clash 5-0 in the World Boxing Qualification Tournament at the Hua Mak Indoor Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

“Nu’ng nasa ibaba ako ng ring, nape-pressure ako, nate-tense, kabado; pero pagtuntong ko ng ring at nag-pray ako, I shifted to a fighting mindset,” said Bacyadan.

“Sinabi ko sa isip ko, trinabaho na ng lahat ng coaches ang trabaho nila, so trabaho ko naman ngayon na i-perform ‘yung mga naituro nila sakin,” she said.

Bacyadan advanced to the Round of 16 against Veronika Nakota of Hungary on Saturday afternoon, June 1, following Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Carlo Paalam in hurdling past the opening of preliminaries. Paalam was to face Turkmenistan’s Shukur Ovezov in the 57kg round of 32 late Tuesday, May 28.

“Hergie moved better and set up her attacks better compared to her last tournament,” said Marcus Manalo, secretary general of the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines.

“Hopefully that carries over against better competition in the next rounds.”

Bacyadan seized control of the fight outright in the first round, and sustained the momentum throughout.

“First minute pa lang nakuha na agad ni Hergie ang laro, so wala nang ibang instruction maliban sa mag-ingat na lang at kailangan lang ma-maintain niya,” said ABAP coach Ronald Chavez.

“Natuwa kaming mga coaches sa ginalaw niya hanggang last round.”

PH obstacle course body preparing for 2 world tourneys

TWO major international tournaments are in the offing for the Philippine Obstacle Sports Federation (POSF), including the OCR World Championships in Costa Rica this August. POSF head Atty. Al Agra announced in Tuesday’s Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum a total of 18 athletes will be competing in ninja races, obstacle course short, and obstacle course long in both the world meet and in the Asia Pacific Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in July.

Last year, Kevin Pascua won a gold and Precious Cabuya and Kaizen dela Serna bagged silver and bronze, respectively in the 100-meter elite finals of the OCR World Championships in Belgium.

Agra is keeping his fingers crossed, the Filipino bets would be able to equal if nor surpass last year’s feat.

“We’re preparing for these two international events especially for Ninja 100 kung saan tayo nag-excel nu’ng Southeast Asian Games. Hopefully, (it would be) like the world championships last

way

Iran, India to dispute 5th after beating classification rivals

IRAN and India defeated separate opponents to salvage a possible fifth place finish at the start of the classification phase of Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Challenge Cup for Women at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Tuesday.

The Iranians, who finished the Pool A action with 1-3 win-loss record, survived first two sets before winning over Hong Kong, 26-24, 26-24, 19-25, 25-19, to get a shot for fifth place in the weeklong tournament hosted by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF).

Opposite hitter Aytak Samatgharamaleki scattered 26 points, 24 on attacks, while Reyhane Karimi added 14 points, highlighted with eight blocks, Hassankhani Shagyahegh had 14 points and Zahra Hedieh delivered 12 kills to lead Iran.

said, adding that India is going to be a tough opponent on Wednesday battle for fifth. “India is a great team. I hope we can do our plans and we should win that game.”

The competition is backed by Meralco, PLDT, Smart, Akari, AyalaLand, Nuvali, Foton, POC, PSC, Mikasa, Senoh, Asics, Maynilad, Makati Shangri-La, Rebisco, Cignal, OneSports, OneSports+ and PilipinasLive. India, ended the Pool A action with 2-2 record, beat Indonesia, 25-16, 30-32, 25-20, 27-25, earlier behind Kambrath Anusree’s 21 points — including 19 kills — and middle blocker Soorya Soorya’s 16 attacks and two blocks for 18 points.

Obstacle course delivered four gold medals for the country in last year’s edition of the SEA Games in Cambodia.

“Sana nga masama kami next year sa Thailand SEA Games. So pinagta-trabahuhan namin ‘yan,” said Agra, adding the POSF would be lobbying for the inclusion of the sport, which is now considered the fifth discipline in modern pentathlon, replacing equestrian.

“Wala na ‘yung equestrian napalitan na ng obstacle course (as the fifth) discipline under modern pentathlon in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.”

Agra was joined in the public sports program by daughter Atty. Jessica Agra, who is fresh from winning the women’s doubles title in the Pro Women’s event of the Asia Pacific Padel Tour (APPT) Phuket Open in Thailand.

The younger Agra, 32, was a former tennis player for Sta. Clara University, an NCAA Division 1 school, and played one season for Ateneo in the UAAP before eventually shifting to padel sport in 2022.

“The course is easy but the greens are very fast,” said Suzuki, lamenting a missed birdie putt on the par-5 No. 12, which he reached in two. “I three-putted it, and it’s really disappointing for me.” Handog, making her debut in the series sponsored by ICTSI, stamped her class in the girls’ side of the youngest division of the three-category event with a 15-over round, nine strokes ahead of first leg winner Maurysse Abalos, who carded a 96. Despite windy conditions, Handog’s birdie on the first hole set the tone for her round. Although she encountered bogeys, a double bogey and a triple bogey, her 87 established a commanding lead.

“It’s hot but I started out strong and good,” said Handog, demonstrating her readiness for the top spot. Athalea Espedido carded a 98 for third.

In the girls’ 15-18 class spread over 72 holes, Lee positioned herself for another victory, firing an impressive 66, featuring an eagle and six birdies. Lee’s stellar play granted her a 12-shot lead over Reese Ng, who struggled with a 78, while Lia Duque posted an 82 for third.

“The game plan is to keep the ball in play to get chances for birdies or pars,” said Lee.

Starting at the third nine, she excelled with birdies and an eagle on No. 14, concluding with a remarkable backside 31 with three birdies in the last four holes.

Subia, Albert bag blitz golds in Torre Cup

MILLERY Gen Subia and Mark Jeross Albert swept both rapid and blitz gold medals in their respective brackets in the Nationwide Youth Chess Tournament 2024 dubbed “2nd Eugene Torre Cup held over the weekend at the Gateway Mall 2 Activity Center in Cubao. Subia reigned supreme in the girls’ under-12 division while Albert prevailed in the boys’ U12 section of this event organized by the NCFP and backed by FIDE, the Eugene Torre Chess Museum and Philippine Arbiters Chess Confederation, Inc. FIDE Master Mark Jay Bacojo and Juziela Marielle Agne topped the rapid premier U18 class with the former finishing with 8.5 points and the latter edging Yana Emilou de Vera via tiebreak after ending up with identical 7.5 points.

John Jerish Velarde and Kayla Lorraine Aurelio, for their part, stole the thunder from the favorites by reigning supreme in the premier blitz U18.

Velarde finished ahead of the heavily favored Bacojo while Aurelio snatched the crown from FIDE World Chess Olympiadbound Ruelle Canino via winover-the-other rule.

Other rapid winners were Justine Sumer Oncita (U15), John Randall Peralta (U12), Franiel Angela Magpily (GU15) and Reese Valerie Barbosa (GU9) while Allie Jean Ong (GU15), Faith Louise Dorupa (GU9), Rafael Irvin Lacorte (U15) and Evan Meneses (U12).

“We just want to help the country produce more chess champions,” said Torre, Asia’s first ever Grandmaster. WEDNESDAY,

“Hong Kong is great today and it’s great for us that we played them,” Samatgharamaleki

“Indonesia played well today. We focused on our defense and reception. They gave so much fight for us,” Jini Kovat Shaji, team captain of India, said.

Hergie Bacyadan holds the Philippine ag

Philippine Obstacle Sports Federation (POSF) head Al Agra with daughter Jessica Agra year,” said the POSF president in the session presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, Smart/PLDT, and ArenaPlus, the leading sports entertainment gate-

in the country. The international campaign comes as the obstacle course is not yet certain if it would be included in the calendar of events of next year’s 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.

Members of the India team celebrate their win over Indonesia.

Ryuki Suzuki navigates the challenging greens with commendable skill and rebounds from early setbacks, securing birdies on Nos. 5 and 14. Manny Marcelo

ECONOMIC MANAGERS.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Finance

Secretary Ralph Recto and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan share the Philippines’ promising economic outlook at the Philippine Economic Briefing (PEB) at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on May 27, 2024. With the theme ‘PH

On-the-Go: Fast-Tracking Economic Progress’ the briefing provided a platform for the government to present economic and investment updates to over 800 domestic business leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, academe, civil society groups, non-governmental organizations and the media.

69.7%

22.8 km MRT-7 completion rate

DOTr studying new MRT-7 route in San Jose del Monte

By Darwin G. Amojelar

three hours at present.

Total length of MRT-7

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Tuesday it is evaluating a proposal by the local government unit of San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan province to realign the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 station that may delay the project’s full completion.

The Marcos administration identified the MRT-7 project as one of 194 high-impact infrastructure flagship projects under its “Build Better, More” program, which are deemed crucial to improving the quality of life of Filipinos.

300,000

Expected number of passengers

“We are studying it together with San Miguel Corp. if there’s a need to realign,” DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said.

The DOTr earlier said the construction of 22.8-kilometer MRT 7 reached 69.68-percent completion as of April 2024.

35 minutes

“If there will be a realignment, there will be a change of scope and cost, then it will return to NEDA [National Economic and Development Authority],” he said.

One-way MRT-7 trip

Bautista assured that the partial operations from North Ave. to Lagro in Quezon City would begin by the first quarter of 2025 as planned.

He said the construction on the Bulacan station had not yet begun and would start after two years.

BSP confirms ‘unprecedented’ irregularities on ‘ghost’ employees

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Tuesday confirmed “unprecedented” irregularities involving two supervisors and four employees of the Monetary Board who were receiving salaries without reporting for work.

The Monetary Board, the policy-making body of the BSP, is composed of seven members, along with their respective staff.

“The irregularities appear unprecedented in an organization that upholds integrity and professionalism at all levels. The BSP remains committed to upholding that,” the BSP, known for giving the highest salaries among government employees, said in a statement.

It issued the information to clarify and respond to recent news reports on alleged ghost employees on the staff of certain Monetary Board members. “We hope this clarifies, within the bounds of confidentiality and fairness due to ongoing proceedings, the steps the BSP has taken since first receiving reports on the issue, to ensure that any erring employee will be held accountable,” it said.

“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. Bautista said the project is very important because it could serve 300,000 passengers in the first year of operation. Once the whole stretch is completed, the trip from Quezon City to San Jose Del Monte would only take 35 minutes, down from two to

The BSP said that in October 2023, the Office of the General Counsel triggered an investigation after receiving credible information that several staffers in the offices of two MB members had not been reporting for work for extended periods of time but were nonetheless receiving their salaries.

It said that in December 2023, the Office of the General Counsel received an initial report of the investigation and instructed the investigating team to proceed with an in-depth investigation.

“In January, the investigating team submitted the final investigation report, where four employees and their two immediate supervisors were identified. The Office of the General Counsel signed it,” the BSP said.

The BSP said that from late February to early March, four of the employees and one direct supervisor implicated in the report tendered their resignation. Administrative disciplinary cases were filed in March before effectivity of their separation, it said.

ERC to appeal ruling on San Miguel-Meralco deal

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission said Tuesday it will appeal the Supreme Court’s ruling dismissing its petition on the rate hike petition by San Miguel Corp.’s subsidiaries and Manila Electric Co.

“We are deeply saddened by the Supreme Court’s dismissal of our petition by minute resolution. We will file a motion for reconsideration through the OSG [Office of the Solicitor General] so we can at least have our day in court,” ERC chairperson and chief executive Monalisa Dimalanta said in a statement.

“We know that what we have now is a very small window of hope, but our mandate requires us to pursue this, to uphold the rule of law, sanctity of contracts and consumer interests,” she said.

The ERC received from the OSG on May 27, 2024 a copy of the minute resolution dated April 23, 2024 issued by the First Division of the Supreme Court denying its petition for review of the decision of the Court of Appeals (CA) and its resolution denying the regulator’s motion for reconsideration.

The CA in its June 27, 2023 decision overturned the commission’s denial of the price adjustments on the power supply agreements of Meralco and two generation companies of San Miguel—South Premiere Power Corp. (SPPC) for the Ilijan plant and San Miguel Energy Corp. (SMEC) for the Sual plant.

The Supreme Court, in its one-paragraph resolution, held that “[it] resolved to deny the petition for failure of petitioner to sufficiently show that the Court of Appeals committed any reversible error in the challenged joint decision and resolution as to warrant the exercise of this Court’s discretionary appellate jurisdiction.”

The ERC said the resolution did not include any discussion of the three fundamental issues raised for the court’s determination in the petition for review by the OSG on whether or not the CA was correct in issuing a restraining order and injunction despite the non-filing by SPPC/SMEC of a motion for reconsideration with the commission and whether or not the CA was correct in overruling the commission’s determination of facts and compliance with the power supply agreements (PSAs).

The MRT-7 project will have 14 stations at North Ave.; Quezon Memorial Circle; University Avenue; Tandang Sora; Don Antonio; Batasan; Manggahan; Dona Carmen; Regalado; Mindanao Avenue; Quirino; Sacred Heart; Tala; and San Jose del Monte.

It can accommodate 300,000 passengers in its first year of operations, and up to 850,000 passengers daily in its 12th year.

The project will also feature an intermodal transportation hub catering to other types of public transportation and a 19-km highway from San Jose del Monte to Bocaue, Bulacan.

Acquisitions, synergy, and technology headline Aboitiz Group’s Great Transformation

THE Aboitiz Group reinforced its transformation goals for 2024 and beyond as it put its partnerships, acquisitions, and interbusiness opportunities front and center during its 8th annual Leaders Conference (LeadCon) held this month. Over 500 Aboitiz leaders gathered for the conference at Solaire Grand Ballroom, where the Group not only unveiled its growth strategies, but also presented its cutting edge innovations including its first pair of AI-powered virtual team members.

The Aboitiz Group is in the third year of its Great Transformation initiative, with everything from its culture, to processes, to technology evolving at a rapid pace. Aboitiz Group President and CEO Sabin M. Aboitiz emphasized the need for team leaders to imbibe the value of transformation and be the examples for their team members.

“Our people will never change unless our leaders do, and our leaders will never change unless they know why they’re doing it and why it’s important. It’s our responsibility as leaders to make sure everyone is supported. When we genuinely care about our teams, we create a leadership that inspires more than motivates,” Sabin Aboitiz said.

Sabin Aboitiz added that the LeadCon is an avenue for the Group’s team leaders to learn the key factors to unlocking techglomerate potential for their teams–namely strategy, synergy, and transformation–directly from Aboitiz’s top brass. Each key speaker in the event offered a view of the Aboitiz Group’s transformation journey and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Chris Beshouri, Aboitiz Equity Ventures’ (AEV) Chief Strategy Officer, presented how the Aboitiz Group has rapidly transformed in the last decade after divesting its shipping and transport business. In such a short timespan, the Group has expanded to become a major conglomerate, diversifying its business interests with big-ticket acquisitions such as Citibank’s Philippine consumer banking business, the operation and management of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and a 40% stake in Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc., among others.

The Group has also entered into major partnerships. One is with Japan’s largest power generation company JERA, and a separate partnership with Meralco PowerGen and San Miguel Global Power Holdings for the country’s first and most expansive integrated LNG facility in a deal worth $3.3 billion. In just three and a half years, the Aboitiz Group had entered into P255 billion worth of deals. According to Beshouri, this is the clearest sign yet of the Group’s transformation.

“The goal of transformation is to have impact. And the potential for this Group to have economic impact is enormous. If you add up the market value of the (Aboitiz) Group, we represent an estimated 4-5% of the total PH stock market capitalization as of 2023,” Beshouri said.

Meanwhile, Eduardo Aboitiz, AEV Chief Synergy Officer, discussed the important role synergies will play in the pursuit of the Group’s goals. Eduardo contextualized synergies as activities wherein Aboitiz businesses work together, enhancing value creation and making the whole Group to be more than the sum of its parts.

He shared that the Group is not starting from scratch. The Aboitiz story began with abaca production. From abaca, the Group started producing rope and mainly selling this to the shipping industry – which eventually became the Group’s flagship business for over 80 years. Today, the Aboitiz ecosystem is wider, resulting in more synergy opportunities. A straightforward example is AboitizPower (AP) reliably providing 100MW of competitively-priced power to its sister companies such as Republic Cement, Pilmico, UnionBank, Aboitiz Infracapital, and Coca-Cola. The Group also leverages on synergies to strengthen its Economic Estates. The Group combines its various assets such as power, water, construction, and banking to create a stronger offer to estate locators, enhancing value for all parties involved. The Group’s businesses are not the only ones called to transform, but the individual team leaders as well. AEV Head of Transformation Dea Franko-Csuba called on the leaders to be adaptive and open to technologies, processes, and behaviors that can improve themselves, their teams, and the business. She cited the need to embrace emerging technologies that will assist teams in automating and optimizing work processes, such as artificial intelligence (AI).

As a highlight of her discussion, she introduced the Aboitiz Group’s first-ever virtual team members, Elsie and Albert. The AI avatars were presented onstage, and gave helpful summaries of the presentations throughout the conference. They were also available to answer queries outside the event entrance, showcasing the ability of AI to assist the leaders and their teams.

Aboitiz Group President and CEO Sabin M. Aboitiz called on Aboitiz Group leaders to be models and spread the values of transformation to their teams.

EDC raises P10b from ASEAN green bond offering

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Energy Development Corp. (EDC), a unit of First Gen Corp., raised P10 billion from the issuance of fixed-rate ASEAN Green Bonds.

EDC said in a statement Tuesday the bonds were seven times oversubscribed over its base offer of P6 billion, which allowed it to exercise the oversubscription option and raise an additional P4 billion.

The bonds were priced at the lowest end of the credit spread range, fetching rates of 6.7478 percent, 6.8873 percent and 7.0626 percent for the three-year, five-year and seven-year series, respectively.

The bonds, issued as second tranche of its P15-billion ASEAN Green Bonds shelf registration, were listed on the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. (PDEx) Monday.

“As we are all feeling the past few weeks, the Philippines is experiencing dangerously high heat indices. This has led to a surge in electricity demand, particularly for cooling, which has significantly reduced our reserve levels and has put upward pressure on electricity prices,” said EDC president and chief operating officer Jerome Cainglet.

“We look forward to adding renewable energy capacity to address these and, through the green bonds, present the public with the opportunity to participate in financing clean and renewable energy projects in line with our company’s mission of forging collaborative pathways for a decarbonized and regenerative future,” said Cainglet.

PLDT, labor union agree on CBA talks to avert strike

By Darwin G. Amojelar

PLDT Inc. and its labor union reached an agreement to start negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), effectively terminating the planned strike.

PLDT said in a disclosure the stock exchange Wednesday its management and the Manggagawa sa Komunikasyon ng Pilipinas (MKP), under the auspices of the Office of the Department of Labor and Employment Secretary, through its Undersecretary for

POINT-TO-POINT transportation and logistics provider 2GO Group Inc. is offering a P99 promotional fare to entice more passengers to travel.

The company said the promo is available from May 28 to 31 for June 17 to Nov. 30 local travel period.

“Get the chance to explore Davao, General Santos, Bacolod, Cebu, Coron, and Iloilo without breaking the bank when you travel with 2GO,” the company said.

The company also offers 50-kilogram free baggage allowance while passengers enjoy cruise-like amenities onboard. It offers live entertainment, karaoke and engaging games and activities when sailing.

A part of conglomerate SM Investments Corp., 2GO offers multimodal transportation. It enables the movement of goods and people throughout the Philippines.

It is the largest point-to-point transportation and logistics provider in the country. It has five business units including 2GO Sea Solutions, 2GO Special Containers and Value-Added Services (SCVASI), 2GO Express, 2GO Forwarding and 2GO Logistics.

The company also provides sea travel and a wide range of peripheral logistics such as freight forwarding, import and export processing and customs brokerage. 2GO leverages on all its services to create unique supply chain solutions for all its customers. Darwin G. Amojelar

Labor Relations Benedicto Ernesto Bitonio Jr., had come to an amicable resolution to begin their 2024-2027 CBA negotiations.

“As a result, the notice of strike filed by the MKP in April 2024 has been lifted,” PLDT said.

“PLDT operations remain ‘business as usual’ and focused on serving the needs of its customers,” it said.

PLDT earlier said the negotiations should commence in September 2024, as mandated by the Labor Code’s “freedom period”.

Under the Labor Code, the parties are tasked to meet and negotiate the renewal or modification of the terms of the CBA at least 60 days prior to its expiry – the so-called freedom period – which, in this case, will begin in the

first week of September, or more than three months from now and almost seven months from the time they first sent the notice to negotiate.

Until then, the Labor Code obligates both PLDT and MKP to respect the current CBA to preserve industrial peace.

PLDT said on its website it has more than 17,000 employees nationwide. The profitable company reported P26.6-billion net income in 2023. It expects core net income to settle “north of P35 billion” 2024, higher than P34.3 billion in 2023.

PLDT’s consolidated service revenues grew 1 percent to a record P191.4 billion in 2023 led by data and broadband, which increase 4 percent to P157.6 billion.

Zamora’s Menlo Capital absorbs three top executives of unit PT&T

PT&T Corp. on Tuesday announced a strategic shift in its leadership team, with three key members moving on to pursue new opportunities within the Menlo Capital group of businessmen Salvador Zamora and Benjamin Bitanga.

“PT&T Corp. is pleased to announce a strategic movement of two of its management representatives— Miguel Marco Bitanga, chief operating officer and Alberto Ambuyo, chief information officer—effective immediately,” the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

“Bitanga and Ambuyo will be pursuing new initiatives within the Menlo Capital group, the parent company of PT&T, the publicly listed entity MRC Allied Inc., digital media company Rappler and other entities,” it said.

The two executives will be joined by

PHILIPPINE stocks slid Tuesday, with the benchmark index closing just slightly above the 6,500 support level while the peso rebounded as investors await key economic data.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index dropped 70.26 points, or 1.07 percent, to close at 6,501.34, while the broader all-shares index lost 25.34 points, or 0.7 percent, to settle at 3,484.74 at the close of trading session.

Reinhard Klocker, PT&T’s strategic projects and vendor management advisor.

“Together, they have been instrumental in advancing PT&T’s mission and vision, playing pivotal roles in various key projects,” PT&T said.

“This transition presents a significant opportunity for both PT&T and Menlo Capital as the entire group embarks on its strategic initiatives for the next 10 years,” it said.

Bitanga, Ambuyo and Klocker will focus on driving forward key initiatives that are critical to the growth and success of the Menlo Capital group.

“Their extensive experience and leadership will be invaluable as they embark on these new ventures, contributing to the strategic direction and operational excellence of the group’s diverse portfolio,” the company said. Darwin G. Amojelar

The peso rose to 57.97 against the dollar Tuesday from 58.11 Monday after the country’s economic managers painted a rosy outlook this year.

Luis Limlingan, head of sales at Regina Capital Development Corp., said the PSEi hit the support level “as US investors resume trading and will be anticipating key economic data”.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

NEXGEN Energy Corp., a whollyowned subsidiary of Pure Energy Holdings Corp. (PEHC), is in talks with environmental, social and governance (ESG) equity funds to help finance its renewable energy expansion program.

“The company is in discussions with several international ESG funds, and we are open to discussions with GOCCs [government-owned and controlled corporations],” NEXGEN president Eric Roxas said. ESG funds invest in companies that have strong commitment to environmental preservation, socially responsible and have strong corporate governance. These funds are keen on renewable energy projects.

NEXGEN filed its initial public offering application with the Philippine Stock Exchange for 300 million shares with an overallotment option for another 45 million shares at an offer price up to P1.68 apiece for total estimated proceeds of P579.6 million. It plans to use the proceeds to partially finance the equity portion for the development of the 5-megawatt (MW) Palauig 2 Solar Plant, an expansion of the existing 5-MW solar plant I Palauig in Zambales, partially finance the equity portions for the development of its 100-MW Silang Maragondon onshore wind power plant and its 40-MW Asisan onshore wind plant.

NEXGEN expects construction cost to reach P210 million for the Palauig 2 solar plant. NEXGEN’s service contract of the Palaguig 2 project is awaiting approval from the Department oof Energy. Meanwhile, the Silang Maragondon wind farm in Quezon has an estimated project cost of P5.854 billion and already secured its WESC.

“Investors are particularly focused on consumer confidence due on Tuesday and April personal income and expenditures report, which includes the personal consumption expenditures inflation reading expected on Friday,” Limlingan said. Value turnover improved to P4.96 billion. Sectoral indices ended mixed with mining and oil and financial posting gains of 1.49 percent and 1 percent, respectively. Jenniffer B. Austria

MANG INASAL’S AWARDS. Mang Inasal bag a silver and three bronze medals in the 11th Annual AsiaPacific Stevie Awards. It won the silver Stevie for the #MangInasalMOMents Mother’s Day DPR campaign for its innovation in the use of viral media/ word of mouth. Bronze Stevie were awarded to the #MangInasalAt20 anniversary milestone (innovation in the use of social media), Dwight Howard’s Love for Mang Inasal (innovation in the use of viral media/word of mouth) and Mang Inasal’s digital and public relations group (most innovative communications team of the year).

TECH TRAINING. Edward Lacap, Pilmico and Gold Coin Group assistant vice president for robotics, automation and integration teaches basic coding to around 50 team members in Pilmico’s offices nationwide. In line with their goal and the Aboitiz Group’s ‘Great Transformation,’ Pilmico embarks on several projects that allow its team members to leverage technology and innovation.

HYDRATION SUPPORT. Manila Water Company Inc., through its project

stakeholder engagement department and social development arm Manila Water Foundation, hands over hydration and hand hygiene support for government personnel. Field employees of DPWH and MMDA received drinking water, water tumblers and cleansing wipes from Manila Water, which aims to support hydration and health amid intense heat index.

BUSINESS

Meralco wrapping up feasibility study on micro modular reactor

By Jenniffer B. Austria

MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco), in partnership with US-based Ultra Safe Nuclear Corp. (USNC), plans to build 5 to 10-megawatt micro modular reactor facility as part of its plan to venture into nuclear energy.

Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer Ronnie Aperocho said during the company’s annual stockholders meeting they are now “wrapping up” the feasibility study for the development of micro modular reactor as proof-of-concept.

BIR raids houses in Mindanao used as warehouses for illicit cigarettes

BUREAU of Internal Revenue (BIR)

Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr.

said a raid in several locations in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur provinces resulted in the confiscation of 347,869 packs of illicit cigarettes on April 24, 2024. The illicit traders will face P219,157,470.00 in tax liability, he said.

“Residential houses are now being used as warehouses by traders of illicit cigarettes. If you see any signs of illicit cigarettes or vape products in your neighborhood, report the same to the BI,” Lumagui said in a statement.

“Illicit trade destroys legitimate businesses. It destroys the livelihoods of millions of Filipinos. It undermines fair competition. We urge all consumers to stop buying illicit cigarettes and vape,” he said.

The BIR said the illicit traders violated several tax measures.

It said the raid was made possible with the assistance of Air Force intelligence, the Military Intelligence Group, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines 401st Brigade.

“We will continue to work with various enforcement agencies as part of our campaign against illicit trade. Upon discovery of the cigarettes, the items were immediately identified as illicit because none of the items bore the required BIR stamps,” the agency said.

“So as we dive deep into the safety, financial and site selection parameters, our goal is to build a capacity of five to 10-megawatts and have some sort of proof of concept that will help us convince Filipino people that nuclear energy is safe,

reliable, cheap and clean source of base load power,” Aperocho said.

Meralco launched in October 2023 the nuclear education program that embraces nominees from the government, Meralco engineers and third-party engineers who could be educated abroad.

Meralco chairman and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan reiterated during the stockholders meeting the company’s target to register P40-billion core net income for 2024, up from P37 billion last year.

Pangilinan said despite the positive growth prospects particularly on its generation and distribution business,

the company’s share price remained undervalued. From its record high of over P400 per share in 2019, its stock price is now trading below P370 apiece.

He said while the decline in Meralco’s share price could be partly due to the downturn in the local equities market, there is a need to communicate to investors about the prospects of the company.

“If people would just recognize what the prospects are for Meralco as a group. But part of it is structural point on the Philippine Stock Exchange itself and on the companies that are part of the exchange,” Pangilinan said.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) reports that raid in several locations in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur resulted in the confiscation of 347,869 packs of illicit cigarettes on April 24, 2024. The illicit traders are facing P219,157,470.00 in tax liability.

Supreme Court lifts TRO on new transmission line in Central Luzon

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Supreme Court lifted the temporary restraining order on a portion of National Grid Corp. of the Philippines’ Hermosa-San Jose 500-kiloVolt (kV) transmission line (HSJ) in Central Luzon, paving the way for its full completion by mid July. NGCP said in a statement Tuesday this enabled the company to push through with the last stages of stringing to complete the project critical to securing transmission services in Luzon after nine months of delay due to the TRO. The High Court issued a resolution dated Feb. 28, 2024 and promulgated on April 8, 2024, stating that the TRO released in July 2023 was lifted. “We are happy that the Supreme Court thoroughly studied the case and found no merit in the petitions filed against NGCP. This will enable us to complete the remaining portion of the HSJ which will better serve the bulk generation coming in from Bataan,” said NGCP. A TRO was issued against the expropriation of and construction in a portion of the HSJ owned by Phirst Park Homes Inc. (PPHI) on July 6, 2023. NGCP immediately stopped the project-related activities along Towers 170-178 of the said line, stalling the stringing of the line’s remaining circuit. The case filed by PPHI and the subsequent court prohibition affected the remaining works for its full completion, halting construction works from July 2023 to April 2024.

Gov’t faces decline in tobacco revenue amid illicit trade of vape products

By Othel V. Campos

THE government is facing a significant decline in tobacco revenue amid the growing illicit trade of vape products, according to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

BIR chief of the excise large taxpayers field operations division Venus Gaticales said in a forum on illicit tobacco and related products in Makati City Tuesday that taxes lost to vape smuggling could not be ascertained at the moment.

“Taxes collected from vape are minimal compared to tobacco,”

Gaticales said, highlighting the wide disparity.

Data show that excise taxes on vape products are less than P1 billion annually, much lower than the P40 billion generated by tobacco products. Vape consumables are taxed at P63 per 20 ml for freebase nicotine and P54.60 per 1 ml for nicotine salts.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) assistant secretary Amanda Nograles said the DTI has been making significant progress on enforcing vaping regulations.

She emphasized the urgency

THE Philippines and Brunei Darussalam on Tuesday signed an agreement to enhance and promote mutual cooperation for both countries’ tourism industries.

The agreement outlines several areas where the Philippines and Brunei will collaborate, subject to their respective laws, rules, regulations and national policies.

These include promotion of Muslim friendly and Halal tourism, exchange of experiences, manpower training, tour package development, medical and health tourism, investment in tourism, communitybased and eco-tourism, business tourism, information exchange; standardization and certification,

exchange and IT development, gender and development programs and airline cooperation.

“This comprehensive agreement sets the stage for a dynamic partnership between the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam, poised to bring about significant advancements in tourism for both nations especially that it includes collaborations to expand Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism, medical and wellness tourism, MICE tourism and increase in tourism investments,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco.

“The collaboration is expected to enhance the overall tourist experience, strengthen economic ties, and contribute to the sustainable

of establishing a dedicated testing facility for vape products which is crucial to verifying tax declarations and ensuring proper taxation.

Nograles said, however, the DTI’s budget request for the facility was rejected twice by Congress. The DTI resubmitted a tier 2 proposal for the establishment of the testing facility and equipment, seeking at least P200 million for the project.

“We depend on the self-declaration of manufacturers and importers. There is no way to check if the declaration is correct,” Nograles said.

The lack of verification creates a system susceptible to manipulation, potentially leading to further revenue losses, she said.

Despite the lack of a testing facility, the DTI said it is actively enforcing vape regulations. Nograles pointed to the mandatory registration for all vape products. She said the DTI plans to remove unregistered and uncertified vapes from the market by January 2025. She said this initiative and a 373-percent increase in enforcement compliance demonstrate the DTI’s commitment to regulating the market.

National Teachers College starts shift to 100% renewable energy

THE National Teachers College (NTC) said it is taking another pioneering step towards a sustainable future by transitioning to 100-percent renewable energy.

It said it signed a strategic partnership with ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions for the shift.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with NTC in their journey towards a greener future. This collaboration serves as a powerful testament to the growing commitment of educational institutions to environmental responsibility. ACEN RES is firmly dedicated to empowering organizations like NTC with clean and sustainable energy solutions,” said ACEN president and chief executive Eric Francia.

NTC said the shift to renewable energy was facilitated by the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), a government initiative empowering qualified power consumers to purchase electricity directly from licensed renewable energy suppliers like ACEN RES. The program fosters greater competition and often leads to more cost-effective energy

development of the tourism industry in both countries,” Frasco said. Key objectives of the agreement include increasing tourist arrivals and encouraging a wider distribution of visitors to the various tourist destinations and attractions in each other.

Visitor arrivals from Brunei in the Philippines reached 6,639 in 2023, which majority of tourists visiting for leisure travel or vacation.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of the agreement, marking a crucial milestone in fostering closer ties and collaboration between the two Southeast Asian countries.

Othel V. Campos

procurement compared to traditional distribution utilities.

“At NTC, we believe that fostering environmental consciousness begins at home,” said NTC president Alfredo Ayala.

“By embracing renewable energy, we not only set a positive example for future generations of educators, but also demonstrate our commitment to build a more sustainable tomorrow,” he said. ACEN RES awarded to the college the “Powered by Renewable Energy” badge in recognition of its decision to go 100-percent renewables. This makes NTC the first academic institution to receive the recognition.

ACEN senior vice president for market transformation Tony Valdez said a part of the company’s mission is to encourage more businesses to be sustainable.

“We believe that transitioning to renewable energy is a quick win for companies aspiring to accelerate their sustainability journey because power is among the primary drivers of cost and carbon emissions across industries,” said Valdez.

SCHOLARSHIP GRANTS. The SGV Foundation, represented by its chairman and president Wilson Tan (second from right), and the Philippine School of Business Administration (PSBA), a unit under STI Education Systems Holdings Inc., represented by its chairman Eusebio Tanco (center), sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA)

LIVELIHOOD PROGRAM. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual leads the awarding ceremony of livelihood assistance to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Visayas during the Bagong Pilipinas town hall meeting on May 24,

Alternergy secures P8-b fund for Tanay wind power project

By Alena Mae S. Flores

second round of the Green Energy Auction Program. Alternergy said that with project financing secured for its Tanay Wind Project, it is set to break ground in June 2024. Alternergy awarded the wind turbine supply contract to global technology leader Envision Energy and the balance of plant engineering, procurement and construction contract to China Energy Engineering Group Guangdong Electric Power Design Institute Co. Ltd. (GEDI) and its local subsidiary.

Asialink Finance expects rapid growth

By Jenniffer B. Austria

LENDING firm Asialink Finance Corp. said Tuesday it expects to grow rapidly in the coming years as Creador’s recent investment in the company enables it to provide more loans to small businesses for their expansion.

Creador, a leading private equity firm in South East Asia, bought an 18-percent stake in Asialink for P4 billion early this year.

Creador said in statement that its recent investment would provide

IN BRIEF

Academic Book Fair slated this June

THE Philippine Academic Book Fair, presented by the Academic Booksellers Association of the Philippines (ABAP), is set on June 5 to 7, 2024 at the Megatrade Hall 1 of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. The book fair, with theme “Thriving Amidst Technological Advancements and Global Challenges,” underscores the importance of adapting to the rapidly evolving landscape of education. Recognized as a premier event for educators, academics and book enthusiasts alike, it presents hundreds of exhibitors and hundreds of thousands of academic book titles, publications, resources, and technologies that cater to the academic sphere.

“In an era defined by global technological advancements, it is important that educators stay abreast with the latest trends and tools to enhance teaching and learning experiences for students,” said ABAP president Evelyn Millar.

“The 25th Philippine Academic Book Fair serves as an avenue for educators and schools to find the latest print and digital resources and innovative strategies to navigate the challenges of the modern academic world,” she said.

PPP Center trains LGU officials

THE Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center conducted a hybrid capacity-building activity (CBA) on the PPP Code and its implementing rules and regulations on May 22 to 23, 2024 at the University of the Philippines-Diliman in Quezon City. This CBA catered to officials and technical officers of local government units (LGUs) and local universities and colleges (LUCs) in the National Capital Region and select LGUs in Southern Luzon.

The event was organized by the PPP Center, the USAID Regulatory Reform Support Program for National Development (RESPOND), which is being implemented by the UP Public Administration Research and Extension Services Foundation, Inc. (UPPAF), and the Center for Policy and Executive Development (CPED), a specialized Center under NCPAG.

“The PPP Code is a very important policy; it is important to nation-building, fast-tracking infrastructure projects, and even social development programs,” said Dr. Enrico Basilio, chief of party of UPPAF-RESPOND and executive director of CPED.

3-year treasury bonds

Asialink necessary resources to address the significant loan requirements of unbanked small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Creador managing director Omar Mahmoud said Asialink “is just

scratching the surface of providing financial assistance to the SMEs”.

He noted that Asialink already served 200,000 out of the 1.2 million registered businesses in the Philippines.

“In 2022, we spoke to approximately 50 financial services companies in the country and it became clear that Asialink was the natural fit for Creador given its leading market share and long-term track record,” he said.

Asialink chief executive Robert Jordan Jr. said the company would use the fresh capital raised from Creador’s investment and other funders like local banks, development finance

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GCASH, the mobile wallet of Globe Telecom, teamed up with IKON Manning Solutions, a talent-sourcing agency, to provide overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) with digital financial services to help them support their families back home.

GCash and IKON aim to address the needs of the global Filipino community, providing them with a secure and convenient way to manage their finances while enjoying the app’s various services, including sending money to the Philippines, paying bills, purchasing mobile load and more.

GCash will also educate depart-

ing OFWs on the importance of digital proficiency and how they can achieve their financial goals and support their family back home through the app. GCash and IKON will also conduct a financial literacy program to extend their support to 2.33 million OFWs.

OFWs set to leave the country can also have access to exclusive services offered by IKON via the GCash app.

“We recognize the hard work and sacrifices of OFWs and their big contribution to our economy. Through our partnership, Filipinos can find more career opportunities at IKON via the GJobs feature of the app,” said

and

to reach more of unbanked businesses so they could grow their operations, generate jobs and improve their lives.

Jordan said Asialink also plans to introduce new products and services as it bolsters its presence nationwide and improve its internal efficiencies.

Asialink’s capital is valued at over P20 billion, up from only P3 million in 1997. In 2023, Asialink forayed into the debt capital market space with the signing of the company’s P2-billion privately-placed fixed rate notes facility.

financial needs of businesses,

larly small and medium enterprises and individuals. It aims to assist the unbanked and underserved market through its more than 86 branches nationwide.

It released over P11 billion in loans in 2023, with monthly growth recorded throughout the year. It had close to 27,000 new borrowers as 2023 drew to a close.

LandBank releases P2.5-b loans to El Niño-affected rice famers

By Othel V. Campos

STATE-RUN Land Bank of the Phil-

ippines said it released P2.5 billion in loans through the Expanded Rice Credit Assistance under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ERCA-RCEF) to farmers as of April 2024 amid the challenges posed by the El Niño phenomenon.

LandBank said that in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA), it fully disbursed the P500-million annual allocation under ERCARCEF from 2019 to 2023.

The program offers affordable loans with minimal documentation for rice farmers and cooperatives.

“LandBank’s support to the agriculture sector is crucial to ensuring

GCash International general manager Paul Albano.

“They can also access GLoans and experience more convenient transactions with the recruitment agency as one of its partner merchant billers,” he said.

Albano said the partnership would allow users to access a wide digital library of relevant and informative content from IKON via Pinoy Channel, from tips on adjusting to life while working abroad to financial management tips and helpful tailor-fit hacks for OFWs.

GCash is available in 16 countries where Filipinos can download and sign up for the GCash app.

food security in the country. We are committed to providing continued financial assistance to our rice farmers to help them sustain their operations and improve productivity, especially in the face of challenges including the El Niño phenomenon,” said LandBank president and chief executive Lynette Ortiz. The P2.5-billion loans benefitted over 15,400 individual rice farmers and 270 cooperatives, impacting more than 21,300 beneficiaries, the lender said. It said the loans supported various aspects of rice production including milling, trading, re-lending and acquiring farm machinery. About 98 percent of LandBank’s direct borrowers under this program are individual rice farmers.

BANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)

Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said the development and the deepening of the Philippine capital markets are vital to the economy.

“Hand in hand with the government, we are pushing on multiple fronts to deepen our capital markets. Such deepened markets will enhance our transmission mechanisms for monetary policy and make our financial system more resilient,” Remolona said in a video message shown at the Philippine Economic Briefing held on May 27, 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

Deepening the country’s capital market also diversifies funding sources for investments, businesses and the economy, he said.

Remolona said the BSP is taming inflation: “We faced unusual supply shocks, which have been large and relentless. From a peak of 8.7 percent in January 2023, inflation has since been on a general downtrend, with the latest rate as of April 2024 at 3.8 percent, within the government’s target range,“ he said.

“Our banks are well capitalized and flushed with liquidity. They are in a good position to continue to support growth,” he said.

Remolona said the BSP continues to take proactive steps to digitalize and improve payments and settlements system, helping big investors, small businesses and Filipino families with increasingly digitalized transactions.

2024 at the University of the Philippines Cebu.

DIGITAL CX. Security Bank Corp. wins the highly acclaimed Best Digital CXAccount Opening and Onboarding (Retail Banking) award. John Michael Vincent Santos (center), assistant vice president and customer experience head (center) and Rex Engage (right), AVP and digital tech solutions architect, receive the awards at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore on April 25, 2024.

TRADE EDUCATION. Students of the Enverga University College of International Hospitality & Tourism Management gather at the World Trade Center Metro Manila exhibition center during one of the interactive tours arranged by Planes and Places Travel Services under the Trade Education Program. The World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM) aims to lead the way in nurturing the next wave of MICE industry leaders through its trade education program.

High generation cost triggers power rate hike in W. Visayas, coops say

ILOILO CITY –Electric cooperatives in Western Visayas have attributed the increased electricity rate as reflected in their May 2024 billing to the “significant rise in generation cost at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).”

Cebu authorities reach compromise on maritime issue

CEBU CITY – The city government and the local port authority have reached a compromise that will pave the way for massive waterfront development projects, an official said Monday.

In a press conference, Acting Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia said the compromised agreement that the Cebu City government signed with Cebu Port Authority will be submitted to the court trying the ownership case over Compañía Maritima and its peripheral areas.

The compromise agreement outlines the roles of both entities for the development projects, and managing the development projects.

“We will develop them, first, for tourism purposes, then for economic purposes,” Garcia said.

The acting mayor did not give exact details of the agreement but added that the move would result in continued development at the Compañía Maritima, materializing the plan to turn the Puso Village into a “night market”, targeting locals and tourists.

He also hinted at making parts of the Compañía Maritima structure as “al fresco” cafés and restaurants.

The agreement will be submitted although there is already an injunction order issued by the court that enjoins the parties from introducing improvements at the Compaña Maritima, including the Puso Village, and the mechanical parking.

“What was agreed upon...was that we will not discuss or dispute ownership. It is already in the court. What has been agreed upon is the development of the three properties Compañía, Puso Village, and the mechanical parking area,” he said in Cebuano.

“To meet our energy demands, we rely primarily on our contracted power suppliers. And supplement our remaining power supply by sourcing additional power from WESM,” Shirley Laurente, president of the Electric Cooperatives Association of Region VI, Inc. (ECAR-VI) said during a press conference Monday.

Laurente said the generation charge in May 2024 bills has surged from April 2024, directly impacting overall electricity rates.

“The increase is a pass-on charge, which means that once collected, it

will be remitted directly to power suppliers,” she said.

Lawyer Janeene Depay-Colingan, executive director/general manager of the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, Inc. (PHILRECA), said residential rates in Western Visayas for May incurred a 16.57 percent increase compared with the previous billing month.

The residential effective rate in May was PHP15.56 per kWh from PHP13.378 per kWh in April.

Electric cooperatives in Western Visayas, as well as in other parts of Visayas, resorted to WESM due to the

shutdown of geothermal power plants since April that caused thinning reserves, the shutdown of six power plants due to mechanical equipment failure, and high heat indices and increased consumer demands.

Lawyer James Balsomo, general manager of the Iloilo III Electric Cooperative (ILECO III), said the drastic increase in one month is extraordinary. He cited, for instance, the consumption of the franchise area of ILECO III that rose to 16,762,285 kilowatt-hours in April from 13,619,114 kilowatthours in March.

DPWH allocates P200b for roads and bridges in Laguna

By Roy C. Tomandao

CALAMBA City–To bolster regional infrastructure, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) IV-A has announced an allocation of P200 billion for the construction of 5.22 kilometers of inter-jurisdictional roads and bridges. This significant announcement was made by Engr. Jovel G. Mendoza, CESO III, the DPWH Calabarzon Regional Director, at the “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” event hosted by the Philippine Information Agency IV-A. Mendoza elaborated on the scope and impact of the project under Presi-

dent Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Build. Better. More.” program, emphasizing its critical role in enhancing connectivity and accessibility across the region.

“The basic infrastructure program is set to include the construction of access roads and bridges from national roads to major or strategic public buildings,” Mendoza told The Manila Standard.

This initiative has been allocated a budget of Php 6.3 billion, he said, which will cover a total of 548.35 kilometers of roads and bridges. He said these developments are particularly aimed at improving connectivity for indigenous communities, with a spe -

IN BRIEF

Reconstructed Paliwan Bridge to open on June 5

ILOILO CITY – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is set to open to traffic the reconstructed Paliwan Bridge, a vital infrastructure connecting the southern and northern parts of Antique.

The bridge connects Lau-an town in the north and Bugasong in the south. Two spans in Barangay Cubay North in Bugasong collapsed at the height of Typhoon Paeng in October 2022.

“The structural rehabilitation of the Paliwan Bridge is already complete. Ongoing is the painting of our railings and installation of pavement markings. As soon as we complete our painting, we will open it on June 5,” Antique District Engineer Bernadeth Betsy Uy said during the Bagong Pilipinas townhall meeting at the DPWH regional office here Tuesday.

DPWH regional director Sanny Boy Oropel said the agency constructed three spans, from the previous two spans, using PHP70 million from the agency’s quick response fund.

Other than the reconstruction, he said the DPWH is using another PHP300 million to construct a new bridge, which is already 77 percent completed. Oropel said they hope to have the new bridge passable to traffic by the second week of August.

“We have constructed a new alignment. From the existing two lanes, it will become four lanes,” he added.

Cops probe drug network after NorMin shabu bust

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Law enforcers in Northern Mindanao (NorMin) did not discount the possibility of local drug networks operating in the region amid the arrest of a “newly identified personality” in a P1.3 million drug bust over the weekend.

Benjamin Gaspi, director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement AgencyNorthern Mindanao (PDEA-10), said there are “alpha” or “confidential informants” who have been monitoring drug trade in the region.

“It’s always a possibility (that such networks exist),” Gaspi, a lawyer, said in an interview on Monday.

The suspect, a 33-year-old woman, is a resident of Iligan City but was apprehended at a motel here by PDEA-10 and Police Regional Office (PRO-10) agents on Sunday.

The suspect was carrying shabu weighing 216 grams.

Gaspi said the suspect refused to disclose her contacts.

Meanwhile, PRO-10 recently carried out 48 operations across the region, leading to the arrest of 59 drug suspects and confiscation of 242.3 grams of shabu and 5.1 grams of marijuana, with an estimated total value of PHP1.6 million. Brig. Gen. Ricardo Layug Jr., PRO-10 director, said the Simultaneous AntiCrime Law Enforcement Operation was conducted from May 22 to 24.

GMEC rolls out mangrove planting program in Bataan

PRIVATE company GNPower Mariveles Energy Center (GMEC) has launched a five-year mangrove planting and protection program in Bataan covering five hectares.

cific target of 0.38 kilometers and a budget of Php 15 million.

“The inter-jurisdictional roads and bridges project, a key component of the broader infrastructure strategy, has been allocated Php 15 million for the construction of 1.65 kilometers in 2024,” he added, saying that this project is expected to significantly enhance the mobility and economic integration of various jurisdictions within the Calabarzon region. “These milestones only demonstrate our dedication to a brighter future for our beloved region,” Mendoza stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering development and improving the quality of life in Calabarzon.

The program was unveiled during an “Environmental Forum on Understanding Climate Change and Mangroves” forum that the company conducted in Sitio Pulo, Barangay Kabalutan in Orani, Bataan.

The forum was attended by more than 150 participants that included GMEC personnel, representatives of the provincial government environment and natural resources representatives, school officials, teachers, and students.

The event featured presentations on climate change, mangrove ecology and conservation, threats to mangrove survival, and the benefits of the ecosystem. Butch Gunio

La Union unveils inventory of cultural elements for heritage preservation

THE provincial government of La Union has recently produced its inventory of cultural elements that are found in the province, as part of its objectives to promote heritage preservation.

HONORING THE FLAG. Young men and women in uniform stand at attention during Baguio City’s celebration of Philippine Flag Day. As part of the celebration, the solemn retirement rites of the worn-out Philippine flags were observed, ensuring the flags were respectfully laid to rest. Jasmin Legpin

PRECIOUS BAMBOO. A resident of Brgy. Vega in Lobo, Batangas salvages a bamboo as Typhoon Aghon hit Southern Luzon. Lino Santos

CULTURAL HERITAGE. La Union has recently collated cultural elements including old churches and ancestral homes.

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL

ADRIATICO, Writer

By Nickie Wang

DUE to overwhelming demand and the success of his initial two-night concert, OPM icon Ice Seguerra announces the repeat of his Videoke Hits show on June 1 at the Music Museum in Greenhills, San Juan.

“You asked for it!” Seguerra shared. “My sold-out concert Videoke Hits is having a repeat on June 1 at the Music Museum! For everyone who wanted more or missed out on tickets, here’s your chance to experience the ultimate videoke event of the year.”

Seguerra wowed audiences on May 10 and

More Ice, please!

Seguerra to repeat sold-out ‘Videoke Hits’ concert on June 1

11 with energetic performances and interactive sing-along segments that created a lively atmosphere. His concerts showcased his dynamic stage presence and musical versatility, leaving fans eager for more. The repeat concert on June 1 promises to be another memorable night for attendees.

Seguerra joked, “ Dahil videoke kakantahin ko mga kanta na ‘di ko kinakanta sa harap ninyo. Pagpasensyahan niyo ako. Ito first time ko gagawin sa harap niyo. Kaya ano mangyari, palakpakan niyo

ko. Pag hindi , I swear guys.”

The concert mixed nostalgia and innovation, captivating the audience. Ice began with classics like “The Search is Over” and “Time and Tide.”

A highlight was the “By Request” segment, showcasing his versatility. The show included a medley of hits from Kitchie Nadal, Backstreet Boys, and the Spice Girls. Ice’s rendition of “Stop” by the Spice Girls, featuring a “Super Bass” rap, was a crowd favorite.

Emotional highlights included a video duet with his father, a tribute to his mother, and a heartfelt rendition of “Araw Gabi” dedicated to his wife, Liza. Special guests Cooky Chua, Noel Cabangon, Bayang Barrios, Aia de Leon , and Acel added to the magic.

“ Videoke Hits isn’t just a concert. It’s the ultimate fan experience. Join us on June 1

SINGER-SONGWRITER Gel Aquino has released a deeply personal and moving single, “Kinakaya,” under GMA Music. The song, which taps into the experience of heartbreak and loss, draws inspiration from Aquino’s journey through grief and healing.

Aquino explains that “Kinakaya” is a tribute to those who have suffered the pain of being left behind by loved ones.

“My inspiration is those who were hurt by love and those who were left behind by their loved ones. Those brokenhearted who experienced being left behind. ‘ Yung mga kailangang bumitaw sa isang relasyon kaya ngayon kinakaya nila ang pag-mo-move on na wala na ang taong mahal nila. ‘Yun ang inspiration nito,” she shared.

The song was born during a particularly challenging time in Aquino’s life.

“I wrote this when I was actively writing and composing songs. During this time, I was heartbroken and very depressed; it was during the pandemic, and my grandmother passed away. I didn’t know immediately that she was gone; I found out two months later. So, this is also for my grandmother and for people who have experienced being left by their loved ones,” she recalled.

The loss of her grandmother served as a significant catalyst for the song’s creation.

“I am independent and I don’t communicate much with my relatives. Then I saw messages saying that my grandmother was gone. That’s why during those months, I kept dreaming about my grandmother. That’s why I wrote this song for my grandmother, to express how I am coping with the pain of her absence. We didn’t even get to see each other before she passed away,” Aquino admitted.

Aquino hopes that “Kinakaya” will offer solace and strength to listeners facing their own struggles.

“The message of the song is that we need to endure the pain that we feel from a person who left us. We need time to heal and not lose hope, and not think that this pain is endless. There will come a time when you will be happy again and you will be stronger. You can transform yourself to be a better person then.”

“Kinakaya” is now available on digital platforms.

FORWARD thinkers will always make the impossible possible for the good of mankind. While naysayers criticize them for seemingly replacing human tasks with robots, the reality is that they involve many talented individuals in creating humanoid robots. Consequently, we are all amazed by the capabilities of these modern creations.

for a chance to sing along with Ice. Let’s make unforgettable memories together,” added Liza Dino-Seguerra , CEO of Fire and Ice LIVE.

Tickets are available for purchase via TicketWorld with the following tiers: VVIP for P6999, VIP for P4999, Gold for P3999, Orchestra Side A for P3499, Orchestra Side B for P1999, and Balcony for P1499. Additional add-ons include a Soundcheck Experience for P2000 and a

I recently met Anoush Sadegh in a Los Angeles fashion show I attended. He was stylishly dressed and an instant presence, spoke with a lot of sense and excitement, obviously, a Hollywood professional as he is into film producing, and well, he is the CEO of AI Life, a company that empowers Artificial Intelligence for entertainment and social interaction.

His team has created a robot named XOIE, a girl humanoid. Part of his plans is to start a podcast and have XOIE as co-host. That’s something never done on social media. The show’s title is Robo Chat with Anoush and XOIE

“Our goal was to create a humanoid robot capable of engaging in natural and meaningful interactions with humans, inspired by the latest advancements in AI and robotics,” Anoush said.

He noted, “It was a collaborative effort involving programmers, developers, and experts in robotics and AI who worked diligently to bring her to life.”

Amidst concerns about AI’s impact on specialized human skills, I met a gentleman advocating for AI’s positive potential. As the head of a high-tech production company employing humanoid artists, he’s leading efforts to ensure AI enhances our world for both present and future generations, offering a glimpse of the hightech future today.

XOIE was developed by Anoush himself and Dr. Sam Khoze, who share the same aspirations. They collaborated with Professor Hiroshi Ishiguro, who created another robot named Erica. Erica was cast in a movie produced by Anoush called b, in which XOIE is also featured as one of the characters.

The movie’s plot revolves around the idea that Erica is trapped in a laboratory as a scientist working on a human DNA experiment that will help her escape. May

I say that the towering, amiable movie producer embraces the thrill of seeing a high-tech-driven scenario move gallantly toward the essentials of humanity.

“Our goal is to explore the fascinating world of technology and innovation, navigating life’s journey towards improvement,” stressed the man who does many engaging things as he is also an actor and a host for high-profile events.

Anoush, who stands more than six feet and is of Mediterranean ethnicity, has always been fascinated by movies. He is a dedicated film producer and a member of the Producers Guild of Americasomething he is proud of and privileged to be one.

Having studied business, marketing, and data sciences, the firmly built industry mover had been primed for creating intelligent and technically advanced movies, with his significant knowledge of how to market them a big plus. Prior to producing he excelled in the automotive industry as a sales and marketing executive.

I could notice that the films Anoush has been involved in strongly dealt with impactful subjects. Case in point is the multiawarded “Zoya” which is about human rights activists being killed by corrupt governments.

In 2018, he executive-

“AI is growing so fast and you have to be open-minded about it. It is here to stay and it will help us efficiently achieve more,” he added during our chat.

Anoush is labeled as a dynamic figure influencing the development of AI and the luxury sector through his excellence in determining the direction where to take such significant matters. We shouldn’t be surprised if his name pops out more often as filmmaking and showbiz in general look for ways to entertain people - interactively and state-of-the-art - in ways never done.

“As a child, I came to realize how things are understood. Alfred Hitchcock told stories from a different angle, in a new vision. Show me, don’t tell me is the key,”

That same child’s outlook later led to AI Life becoming a fertile ground for “creating captivating art for global audiences” in the form of films, TV movies, and reality shows. The company uses cameras and technology as main tools in “freezing moments, telling stories, and addressing societal issues.”

Anoush insisted, “If you are to deeply understand AI, you must know that it should not lose the human touch.”

Small wonder the strong-willed guy is, above all, a believer in the power of spearheading philanthropic and humanitarian projects which he consistently does in line with his continuing journey in helping the industry advance through technology and creativity.

produced the film 1st Born which starred

Val Kilmer, Tom Berenger, and Denise Richards

Touchbass Yugel Losorata

Noel Cabangon (left) was among the guest singers during Ice’s concert

Singer-songwriter Ice Seguerra is known for hit songs such as ‘Pagdating ng Panahon’ and ‘Anong Nangyari sa Ating Dalawa’

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Adjeng unwraps album two decades in the making

AVery Wang

Nickie Wang

FTER gracing the music scene for over twenty years, Adjeng , or Adrienne Antoinette Sarmiento-Buenaventura in real life, is finally unveiling her debut album Unravel , a collection of five unreleased tracks and three singles that have introduced her music to the public.

In an interview with Manila Standard Entertainment, Adjeng delved into the essence of her music, describing it as a continuous unraveling of emotions and experiences. She reflected on the themes of love, pain, and hope that permeate her compositions, presenting an honest portrayal of life’s realities.

“The word unravel means unfolding or untangling woven threads, and revealing something that has been knit together. My music is constantly unraveling, and in the

seasons of my life, I often ask myself, ‘When things unravel, what is our response?’” she shares in an interview.

Adjeng’s first album is like a love letter to her life experiences. She shares them through honest songs, being true to herself, and loving what she does with all her heart.

“I feel that the seasons of my life

AMERICAN singer-songwriter Tori Kelly is hitting Asia as part of her The Purple Skies tour. The tour kicks off in Taipei and includes stops in Singapore, Manila, Seoul, and Tokyo.

Kelly will be live at Legacy Taipei in Taipei on Aug. 17, followed by the Capitol Theatre in Singapore on Aug. 21. She will then grace the stage at the New Frontier Theatre in Manila on Aug. 23 before heading to Myunghwa Live in Seoul on Aug. 27. And for her final stop, she will perform at WWW X in Tokyo on Aug. 29.

Kelly’s rise to stardom is fueled by her dynamic vocals and collaborative spirit, earning her Platinum certifications and widespread acclaim alongside artists like Justin Bieber and Jon Batiste. Her latest album, TORI., blends Y2K pop with R&B influences, following the success of her Grammy-winning “Inspired by True Events.” For Mastercard cardholders in Manila, presale tickets can be purchased from June 3 to 5 Live Nation members get their chance on June 5 before tickets go public on June 6.

For more details and ticketing information, visit torikellymusic.com and livenation.asia.

there’s love, pain, and a lot of hope. These themes don’t shy away from realities,” she added.

Despite the urging of peers, Adjeng deliberately held back from releasing an album until she felt the timing was right. This deliberate approach allowed her to infuse her music with the depth and substance of her journey and experiences.

Unravel, according to Adjeng, is her evolution as both a songwriter and vocalist. Embracing a diverse range of genres, she boldly experiments with her sound, resulting in what she describes as “Adjeng pop.”

“I don’t shy away from experimenting with different genres, I like drawing outside the line. The album has its pop roots but is a combination of different genres that surprises people when they hear my music,” she said. The album’s five previously released singles include “Rollercoaster,” “More Than A Little,” and “Must Be Love,” alongside

three

and affection shared with her husband over the years.

From her beginnings in national songwriting competitions to her current endeavors as a multifaceted artist, Adjeng remains committed to inspiring and entertaining her audience. Beyond her musical pursuits, she has also made significant contributions as a writer, actress, and mental health advocate.

As Unravel makes its debut on digital platforms, Adjeng’s fans eagerly anticipate the soulful melodies and poignant narratives that define her distinctive brand of Original Filipino Music. With each note, she seeks to honor the legacy of music as a source of solace and spiritual rejuvenation, echoing the sentiments of Johann Sebastian Bach In addition to her artistic endeavors, Adjeng finds fulfillment in her roles as a devoted wife, mother of two, and an enthusiastic member of the BTS ARMY embodying a life rich in creativity, passion, and tireless dedication.

CULTURE and adventure, set in the backdrop of Mother Nature, came together as the town of Montalban, Rizal celebrated its event-filled 153rd municipal founding anniversary.

Themed “Makasaysayang Bayan; Makabagong Karanasan, Silayan Bagong Montalban”, the monthlong Montalban Festival is a thrilling mixture of legend, nature-oriented adventures, indigenous culture, rhythmic beats, and exciting road and food trips.

“From showcasing our rich cultural heritage to embracing the spirit of unity and camaraderie, this year’s festivities is arguably the most memorable celebration in recent years as we embarked on new activities,” says municipal mayor Ronnie Evangelista Daily activities included the Agri-Trade Tourism Fair that showcased local agricultural produce from the upland villages and the nightly Music & Busking in the Park with home-grown musical and entertainment talents. The action picked up with adrenaline-pumping events of the Grand Off-Road Adventure Fest held at the Pamitinan Protected Landscape which covered mountain biking, trail running, hiking, and paramotor sky flying.

Montalban, a stone’s throw from Metro Manila, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas. Adventure-seekers flock to indulge in activities like Canicross Offroad, an Open Martial Arts

Tournament, and the Run Against Illegal Drugs Color-RAID.

The town’s historical sites shine with the unveiling of markers recognizing its significance: the National Museum designates the Wawa Dam Complex as an Important Cultural Property. At the same time, the Battle of Mt. Puray and the Gobierno Departamental Del Centro De Luzon receive recognition from the National Historical Commission. Wawa Dam, an American-era reservoir, lies at the heart of

Mayor Ronnie Evangelista (rightmost) leads the unveiling of the National Museum

Singer-songwriter Adjeng’s debut album features five unreleased tracks alongside three of her previously-released singles

Aside from being a successful singer, Adjeng is also a devoted mother of two

have been unfolding in recent years, and the best part about this unraveling is that it reveals the themes that come with each season –

newly recorded originals. Among these, “Still Kilig” stands out as a heartfelt tribute to Adjeng’s marriage, chronicling the enduring love

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

Editor

NICKIE WANG,

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,

Writer

Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO,

Glazing Life Glaiza Lee

“BY ORDER of the Most Holy Father’s will: The apostolic delegate is to authorize the apostolic administrator to issue a document from the Curia in which it is declared that the events of Lipa, after serious examination, turns out not to have a supernatural origin and character.”

And so the controversial 1951 Vatican decree, written in Latin and drafted in the presence of then Pope Pius XII and was released just recently, stated. It confirmed that the apparitions of the Virgin Mary that happened in Lipa, Batangas in 1948 were not supernatural.

Curiosity got me when the late Floy Quintos produced Grace, the last play he wrote before his untimely death. The play trained the spotlight on the controversial Lipa apparitions. And it was what a telenovela should be made of.

On Sept.12, 1948, a young nun named Teresita experienced an apparition of the Virgin Mary while praying in the garden of the Carmelite Convent in Lipa City. During her prayer, the vines in the garden began to shake, and Teresita heard a voice, believed to be that of the Virgin Mary, instructing her to kiss the ground and to return to the same spot for the following 15 days.

Sister Teresing, as she was called, returned the following day, and saw the Virgin Mary, dressed in a simple white robe and carrying a golden rosary hanging from her right hand.

During the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows on September 15, 1948, rose petals with effigies of Jesus and Mary, fell down from heaven.

Based on the historical account, there were 19 apparitions of the visionary nun. During these apparitions, Mary allegedly told the young nun secrets about herself, for the Carmelite convent, China, and the entire world. In some apparitions, the Virgin Mary stressed humility, penance, prayers for the clergy and the Pope, and praying of the rosary.

In her final apparition to Sister Teresing, on Nov. 12, 1948, the Virgin Mary called herself the “Mediatrix of All Grace.” Reportedly, some many conversions and healings occurred following the apparitions.

By the grace of Floy

While the devotion to Our Lady, Mediatrix of All Grace grew, controversies hounded the so-called apparitions. Local bishop Alfredo Verzosa y Florentin had approved the veneration, but the committee of Church hierarchy in the Philippines declared that there was no supernatural intervention. According to the reports, “Bishop Rufino Santos, who became apostolic administrator after the decision, ordered that no petals be given to anyone, and the statue of Our Lady, Mediatrix be withdrawn from public view.”

In 1950, Sister Teresing left the convent because of the controversy.

For years, the story of Lipa apparitions slowly faded, until February 1990 when the nephew of Bishop Cesar M. Guerrero, one of the signers of the 1951 negative judgment, allegedly swore in an affidavit that the bishop signed the document under duress. According to the book by June Keithley, Bishop Guerrero believed in the authenticity of the apparitions.

Later that year, a dying sister from the Lipa Carmelite convent requested the return of the statue for veneration, which the community

fulfilled promptly. Archbishop Mariano Gaviola then lifted Bishop Santos’s ban, allowing the statue’s display.

In 2005, Archbishop Ramon C. Arguelles of Lipa, Batangas, initiated a campaign to spread devotion to Our Lady, Mediatrix of All Grace, across the country’s parishes. He publicly expressed his devotion to the apparition on numerous occasions.

During the 61st anniversary of Sister Teresing’s final apparition, Archbishop Arguelles officially lifted the 1951 ban and established a new commission to reassess the apparition and its phenomena. However, the Vatican intervened, maintaining its position. Nevertheless, devotion to Our Lady Mediatrix of All Grace has persisted and grown over the years.

Grace, directed by Dexter Santos, features stellar performances by seasoned actors including Stella Cañete-Mendoza, Shamaine CenteneraBuencamino, Frances Makil-Ignacio, Missy Maramara, Matel Patayon, Leo Rialp, Dennis Marasigan, Nelsito Gomez, Jojo Cayabyab, and Raphne Catorce

The play intertwines historical and fictional characters to explore the 1948 Marian apparitions and rose petal showers in Lipa. The Discalced Carmelite Sisters of Lipa Carmel provide insights into their monastery’s establishment and the sacred virtues of their Order.

Actor Marasigan reflects on the apparitions, emphasizing faith over proof: “It is still the same Virgin Mary, regardless of any pronouncement.

A rare collection: A bundle of Giclee Fine Art Prints from three National Artists

GALERIE Francesca Emporium, in collaboration with the estates of National Artists Fernando Amorsolo, Abdulmari Imao, and Juvenal Sansó, launched a limited-release bundled collection of three Giclee Fine Art Prints. The limited collection, curated by Ricky Francisco, Director of Fundacion Sansó, features the distinct art styles of each master artist and is a noteworthy representation of the diversity of Filipino Art. This collection features the Alegra La Sombra by Juvenal Sanso, Man and Woman on

Carabao by Fernando Amorsolo, and Sarimanok Series 2014 by Abdulmari Imao.

This collection gives art connoisseurs the unique chance to have these beautiful works of art as part of their private collection while at the same time contributing to the worthwhile projects of the beneficiaries chosen by each estate.

The beneficiary for Juvenal Sansó is I CAre: Initiative for the Continuation of Artist’s Estate. The program will help the Artist’s Estate to develop through merchandising, skill transfer, and

copyright resources.

The beneficiaries of Fernando Amorsolo’s Estate are the literacy programs Rising Sunday Foundation and the Fernando C. Amorsolo Art Foundation Inc. while the beneficiary of Abdulmari Asia Imao is the Angat Buhay Foundation’s Arts and Culture Pillar. Galerie Francesca Emporium; in collaboration with Fernando C. Amorsolo Art Foundation, Fundacion Sansó, Rising Sunday Foundation, and Imao Family, allows art collectors to own these

carefully curated works of art while giving back to the community.

Galerie Francesca Emporium offers a wide range of collectible items that they carefully curate to make sure every piece is visually appealing and valuable. This exclusive collection is one of the inspired collections that Emporium has launched that caters to seasoned art collectors and connoisseurs looking to add depth and meaning to their collections.

While Emporium aims to bring distinct and exquisite collections to art collectors, Emporium also

My family in Lipa also believed in it.” Marasigan, who met Sister Teresing in the 1970s, portrays Bishop Santos in the play, approaching the role with historical accuracy. Despite being his first Quintosian play, Marasigan eagerly accepted the opportunity, expressing no hesitation.

During the script reading, Quintos discussed his motivation for writing the play, intrigued by the Catholic Church’s politics, silence, and obedience. He saw obedience and silence as forms of resistance, reflected in the play’s tagline “obey and resist in silence.” Even for those without devotion or belief, the play stays true to the facts.

“You will find that the play ends in the way it actually ended in real life. The church made the pronouncement that it was not a miracle. My expectation? The audience will come out of the theater wanting to know more about what has happened,” shared Marasigan.

He added: “The play doesn’t advocate the changing of the stand. But if it makes people understand what happened and deepen their faith, then the play has done its purpose.” Grace runs every Saturday and Sunday from May 25 to June 16, with 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. shows, at the PMCS Blackbox Theater, Circuit Makati. Tickets are available at Ticket2Me (https://ticket2me.net/event/21756).

For more information, follow Grace on its social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram. You may also contact us at 09952086334 and grace. spotlight.2024@gmail.com.

believes that art should be

and integrated into all aspects of

In addition to their wide range of collectibles, they also feature select functional items to bring

Fernando Amorsolo’s ‘Man and Woman on Carabao’ will have the Rising Sunday Foundation and the Fernando C. Amorsolo Art Foundation Inc. as its beneficiaries

Juvenal Sansó’s Alegra La Sombra

‘Grace’ is the last play produced by the late playwright Floy Quintos

The cast of ‘Grace,’ a play revolving around the apparitions of the Virgin Mary seen in a convent in Lipa, Batangas