Manila Standard - 2024 June 1 - Saturday

‘Death in WPS very close to act of war’

PH, treaty allies to respond accordingly

By Charles Dantes and Rey Requejo

PRESIDENT Marcos on Friday warned the death of any Filipino in the West Philippine Sea due to illegal and coercive acts of other states would be "very, very close" to an act of war.

Mr. Marcos, after

"If a Filipino citizen is killed by a

willful act, that is, I think, very, very close to what we define as an act of war and therefore we will respond accordingly,” he replied.

“And our treaty partners, I believe, also hold the same standards (that) when joint actions will be undertaken in support of such incidents in the Philippines,” he added.

He said the death of any Filipino would be the point where "we would have crossed the red line."

"We already suffered injuries, but thank God we have not yet gotten to the point where any of our participants, civilians or otherwise have been killed," he said.

In his keynote addresss, Mr. Marcos said the vision of having a peaceful and stable South China Sea remains a ''distant reality" as he

By Othel V. Campos

sovereignty and maritime domain.

"The life-giving waters of the West Philippine Sea flow in the blood of every Filipino. We cannot allow anyone to detach it from the totality of the maritime domain that renders our nation whole," he said.

"As President, I have sworn to this solemn commitment from the very

DONALD Trump on Thursday became the first former US presi

dent ever convicted of a crime after a New York jury found him guilty on all charges in his hush money case, months before an election that could see him yet return to the

The jury found him guilty on each of the 34 counts of falsifying business records to hide a payment meant to silence porn star Stormy Daniels. He could in theory be sentenced to four years behind bars for each count but is more likely to receive probation.

and

By Alena Mae S. Flores

HISTORIC ADDRESS.

President Marcos, the first Filipino leader to

a

address during an IISS ShangriLa Dialogue, is applauded by ministerial-level delegates and senior defense officials from

By Maricel V. Cruz and Vince Lopez

SPEAKER Martin Romualdez assured Filipino fishermen and citizens that President Marcos will protect them when they sail within the country’s exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Romualdez issued the statement yesterday on National Fisherfolks Day amid the threat of China to detain “trespassers” in the South China Sea for at least 60 days without trial. The Chinese Foreign Ministry earlier said the Philippines has nothing to worry about the new policy for “as long as there is no illegal behavior.” According to the Speaker, the President “will do everything [he] can to protect our fishermen in pursuing their economic and livelihood

Rey E. Requejo

The 77-year-old Republican,

Remulla: P10m prize to prove POGO ties

CAVITE Governor Jonvic Remulla said he is ready to give a P10-million reward to anyone who can prove his ties with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs).

Remulla also denied “insinuations” that he and his family have been “protectors” of the business linked to several illegal activities in the Philippines.

Social media posts, which

‘Death...

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first day that I took office. I do not intend to yield. Filipinos do not yield," he added.

He denounced aggressive actions in the maritime area that run counter to ASEAN's vision of a safe and stable South China Sea.

''Illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions continue to violate our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction,'' he said.

“We have defined our territory and maritime zones in a manner befitting a responsible and law-abiding member of the international community. We have submitted our assertions to rigorous, legal scrutiny by the world's leading jurors,” he asserted.

President Marcos cited the 1982 UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award, which affirmed the Philippines' maritime rights and rejected China's massive claim in the SCS.

Gov‘t...

From A1 activities” within the country's EEZ, which includes Bajo de Masinloc (also known as Scarborough Shoal and Panatag Shoal) near Zambales and Pangasinan.

“We will use all the powers we have to keep them safe,” Romualdez said. He also echoed other government officials in rejecting Beijing’s trespassing policy in the international waters, which it reportedly plans to enforce by June 15.

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Biden's campaign issued a statement saying the trial showed "no one is above the law." It added that "the threat Trump poses to our democracy has never been greater."

Judge Juan Merchan set sentencing for July 11 – four days before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where Trump is due to receive the party's formal nomination.

The 12-member jury deliberated for more than 11 hours over two days before the foreman read out the unanimous conclusion within a matter of minutes.

Merchan thanked the jurors for completing the "difficult and stressful task."

Their identities had been kept secret throughout proceedings, a rare practice more often seen in cases involving mafia or other violent defendants.

Trump also faces federal and state charges of conspiring to overturn the results of the 2020 election won by Biden, and for hoarding secret documents after leaving the White House.

However, those trials – on far weightier alleged crimes – are unlikely to get underway before the presidential election.

Election conspiracy

Trump was convicted of falsifying business records to reimburse his lawyer, Michael Cohen, for a $130,000 payment

This success is largely due to a recent increase in the government's buying price for the grain, Lacson said. “Farmers in several provinces in northern Luzon have yet to complete their harvest and they’ve appealed to the NFA to continue with our procurement,” he added.

In April, the NFA council raised the buying price per kilo of palay to a range of P23 to P30 for clean and dry rice, up from P19 to P23.

have gone viral, have linked the Remulla family to POGO operations after Island Cove — the clan’s former resort property in Cavite — was sold to a FilipinoChinese businessman, who then

The President also called on the United States and China to manage their rivalry "in a responsible manner."

"China’s determining influence over the security situation and the economic evolution of this region is permanent. At the same time, the stabilizing presence of America is crucial to regional peace. It's never a choice. Both countries are important,''

Mr. Marcos said.

''The continued stability of this region requires China and the United States to manage that rivalry in a responsible manner."

Earlier in the day, Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the Philippines and the United States have expressed concern over Beijing's new policy to arrest trespassers the South China Sea.

''Both our countries are concerned about it,'' Brawner said at the sidelines of the defense summit in Singapore.

Days before his back-to-back trip to Brunei and Singapore, Mr. Marcos

“Our countrymen cannot be considered trespassers. It is the Chinese and other foreigners illegally entering our maritime waters under international law who will be treated as intruders,” Romualdez said.

Earlier, the Armed Forces of the Philippines declared it will continue its patrol activities in the WPS despite China's announcement of a fishing ban, which would cover areas that fall under the exclusive maritime zone of Manila.

"Our Philippine Navy is continuously patrolling our sea, they are always rotating, conducting

to Daniels on the eve of the 2016 election, when her claim to have had sex with him could have proved fatal to his campaign against Hillary Clinton.

The trial featured lengthy testimony from the adult performer, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford and who described to the court in graphic detail what she says was a 2006 sexual encounter with the married Trump.

Prosecutors successfully laid out a case alleging the hush money and the illegal covering up of the payment was part of a broader crime to prevent voters from knowing about Trump's behavior.

Cohen, who was the key witness as a tainted former aide who had turned on his old boss, called the verdict "an important day for accountability and the rule of law."

Trump has denied any sexual encounter with Stormy Daniels, but did not testify in his own defense. His lawyers argued that any payments made to the performer were entirely legal.

Campaigning from courthouse

The trial has distracted Trump in his campaign to unseat Biden. However, he milked the media attention throughout.

reportedly converted the property into an alleged POGO hub.

“The Remulla family has never been involved in gambling or any illegal activity,” he said.

“I am ready to give a P10 million reward to anyone who can prove that we are still involved in the current operation in Island Cove... or that my office or the Department of Justice gave them any protection, or that any of my family signed the necessary

condemned China’s order to arrest any foreign nationals trespassing in the South China Sea, which includes areas that fall under the Philippines' exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea.

“That kind of action would be completely unacceptable to the Philippines,” he said.

“That is unacceptable, and we will take whatever measures to always protect our citizens,” Mr. Marcos added.

China said the Philippines should not be worried about the new rules “as long there is no illegal behavior.”

Brawner said the government is also monitoring China's deployment of bigger ships in the West Philippine Sea.

China Coast Guard 5901, the largest coast guard ship in the world known as "The Monster," earlier conducted an "intrusive patrol” near Scarborough Shoal.

Scarborough Shoal, also called Bajo de Masinloc or Panatag Shoal, is located within the Philippines' EEZ.

patrols, as well as our Philippine Air Force, so we also have maritime patrols," AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla said during a televised interview aired by PTV4.

These actions are in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, she added.

The unilateral fishing ban imposed by China in WPS set from May 1 to Sept. 16 includes Bajo de Masinloc, a traditional fishing ground of Filipino fisherfolk and is only 124 nautical miles away from Masinloc town in Zambales.

The AFP official said these actions

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Filipinos and Filipinos by descent in New Caledonia to remain vigilant, avoid public places, and restrict nonessential movement.

"Filipinos are also advised to monitor and follow guidelines set by local authorities," the DFA said.

New Caledonia is one of several territories in the Caribbean, Indian Ocean and Pacific that are still part of France in the post-colonial era, giving Paris a global footprint unmatched by any other European power.

Filipinos can contact the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney for concerns through sydney.pcg@dfa. gov.ph and +61 481 728 027.

On Friday, French security forces regained control throughout New Caledonia's capital Noumea, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said, two weeks after deadly riots broke out in the Pacific territory.

Around 400 police had cleared 26 barricades and arrested 12 people in the Riviere-Salee district in the city's north, Darmanin wrote on X.

It was "the last neighborhood of Noumea that was not under control," he added.

permit for the operation of POGO island,” Remulla said.

DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla is a brother of the governor.

Former Rep. Gilbert Remulla — another Remulla sibling — was named as director of the Philippines Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) in 2022.

The governor said his brother has nothing to do with the POGO permits issued in 2020.

The opening of the 32-hectare

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, for his part, discussed the Law of the Sea with an international lawyer at a sideline meeting of the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue. Manalo said he was able to meet Prof. Robert Beckman, at the National University of Singapore.

''Hopeful that our discussion on International Law, including the Law Of The Sea, could pave the way for further collaboration, (especially) among the many centers of expertise in our region,'' the country’s top diplomat said.

The meeting came a day after the Department of Justice said the environmental case the Philippine government intends to file against China over the maritime destruction in the West Philippine Sea may be completed "in a few weeks."

The National Security Council earlier said the evidence includes images of how Chinese activities destroyed the already fragile marine environment in Scarborough Shoal.

by the Philippine military are guided by the Constitution and the principles of national sovereignty.

Despite these challenges, Padilla said the AFP is "committed to defending the country's sovereignty and protecting its interests in the region."

"That is in conjunction with our determination to take care of our territory here in our ocean, and ensure the safety of our Filipino fishermen," she said.

The AFP official also said they have contingency plans in place should China ramp up its "illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive" activities.

Other districts of greater Noumea remain blockaded, said Sonia Backes, a pro-France politician who heads New Caledonia's southern province. Reports showed that seven people have been killed, hundreds arrested, and large numbers of buildings and cars destroyed in a fortnight of upheaval in New Caledonia.

Police shot dead a man on Friday evening, a day after French President Emmanuel Macron visited to try to calm tensions. Backes urged government forces to clear the remaining neighborhoods as soon as possible.

An AFP journalist saw another blockade being dismantled in La Tamoa, on the main road to Noumea's international airport of La Tontouta. The hub is still closed to commercial flights, although the access road was one of the first targets for police clearance actions.

Local carrier Aircalin said on Friday that La Tontouta airport will not reopen until at least 9:00 am on Monday (2200 GMT on June 2).

The airport in Noumea was shut on May 14, a day after protests erupted. Days of clashes, looting and arson have left seven people dead and hundreds injured.

POGO complex in Cavite sparked concerns about what some called a “creeping” Chinese invasion as the former leisure destination reportedly housed between 20,000 and 50,000 Chinese workers.

Remulla said his family no longer owns the property, which they acquired in 1970 through Remulla’s deceased father, lawyer Johnny Remulla.

The governor said the family sold the property in 2018.

Senator urges Guo, mother to take DNA test

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday urged Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo to take a DNA test with Lin Wen Yi, her alleged biological mother, following information from the former’s sources in Valenzuela City who have worked with the Guo family.

"It is important and necessary for them to undergo a DNA test so that we will know the truth if they are related or not. Because according to the people I talked to here in Valenzuela –because they rented a warehouse here and some people worked for them – the others said Lin Wen Yi was introduced as her mother," Gatchalian said in a radio interview.

The sources, the senator said, know Guo's mother as "Winnie," which can possibly be a nickname for "Wen Yi."

"Her English name or Filipino name is Winnie so it's not far from Wen Yi because that's what the Chinese normally do," Gatchalian said.

For her part, Senator Risa Hontiveros said the appearance of Guo's parents in the Senate would dispel speculation they do not exist.

"We are hoping that Angelito Guo and Amelia Leal would attend our hearing because they are the only ones who can prove that they actually exist," said Hontiveros, chairperson of the Senate Committee on women, children, family relations and gender equality.

The Philippine Statistics Authority told the Hontiveros-led committee they have no record of the birth certificate and marriage contract of the mayor's parents.

"So these things became so mysterious when in fact, they are just very simple to know," she said.

Gatchalian said based on their flight records, Guo's father Jian Zhong Guo and Wen Yi flew together 140 times in a span of seven to eight years.

"In the corporate papers, they have fourteen corporations, seven of which have Wen Yi as an incorporator. In family businesses, that's normal. Here in Valenzuela, almost all family businesses have that kind of setup," he said.

Shortly after the verdict was issued, Trump's campaign put out a fundraising appeal, titled "I am a political prisoner!" He also announced he would make a public statement to journalists early Friday. AFP Diesel...

The price hike significantly boosted the NFA's ability to buy rice and build its buffer stock, important as the typhoon season approaches. Agriculture secretary Francisco

Tiu Laurel Jr. expressed satisfaction with the increased buying and the benefit it provides to farmers. He also mentioned a new "fastlane" system implemented by the NFA to expedite purchases from farmers selling smaller quantities.

Lacson reported the agency has only used half of its P9 billion procurement budget this year for the recent surge in buying. NFA also has P8 billion remaining from last year's al-

The violence erupted over a planned voting reform that indigenous Kanaks fear will marginalize them politically.

location for further purchases.

The current challenge, according to Lacson, is a lack of storage space, particularly in Region II.

To free up space, the NFA has begun milling some stock to fulfill a 500,000bag rice request from the Department of Social Work and Development. While rice procurement is on the rise, Tiu Laurel acknowledged the continued high retail prices of rice. He assured that the DA and other government agencies are exploring solutions to bring down the cost for consumers.

All this came in the heels of the House of Representatives’ approval on third and final reading of the pro-

New Caledonia has been ruled from Paris since the nineteenth century but many indigenous Kanaks want fuller autonomy or independence. AFP

posed amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law (RTL). Under the bill, the NFA shall be allowed – in the following order –to purchase local milled rice; purchase up to a maximum of 30 percent brought in by accredited importers at cost; and as a final recourse, once all domestic sources have been exhausted, directly import rice, subject to explicit authorization from the Agriculture Secretary. The bill also extends the validity period for the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund or RCEF for six more years and boosts its budget from P10 billion to P15 billion.

From A1 4, 2024,” Department of Energy (DOE) director for the oil industry management bureau Rodela Romero said. Romero said gasoline prices may rollback by P0.60 to P0.90 per liter while diesel may increase by P0.40 to P0.60 per liter and kerosene may go up by P0.75 to P0.90 per liter. She said the forecasted oil price movements are driven by several reasons such as expectations on the OPEC+ (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) decision to continue their production cut.

Romero said world oil prices are also driven by seasonal demand uptick due to the forthcoming summer season and the announcement of the US on the release of millions of barrels of gasoline products from government reserves to lower prices at the pump.

She said the actual price movement next week will depend on the last day of trading for the week, which will be completed Friday night.

On May 28, 2024, the oil companies implemented an increase in the prices of gasoline and diesel by P0.40 per liter and kerosene by P0.30 per liter. Based on DOE data, year-to-date, the total adjustment of gasoline and diesel stood at a net increase of P7.55 per liter and P4.85 per liter, respectively. Kerosene, on the other hand, has a net decrease of P1.05 per liter.

Anti-ASF vax to revive hog industry

By Maricel V. Cruz

AS A government technical working group (TWG) gears up for the rollout of imported vaccines to fend off the further spread of the African Swine Fever (ASF), a legislator is optimistic that the inoculation program that will soon kick off to finally arrest the large-scale deaths of hogs and reinvigorate the local swine industry.

At the same time, Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte called on the Food and Drug Administration to speed up its registration process for the chosen imported vaccine brand from Vietnam. This, he said, to make sure that the agri-

Teaching supply allowance law signing hailed

HOUSE Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers Rep. France Castro has welcomed the signing of the Teaching Supply Allowance (TSA) Act, calling it a landmark legislation that will provide public school teachers with a significant boost in their teaching tools and resources.

“This is a long-overdue recognition of the crucial role our teachers play in shaping the minds of our future generations. With the signing of the TSA Act, our hardworking teachers will finally have the necessary funds to purchase the teaching tools they need to deliver quality education to our students,” Castro said.

The law mandates the Department of Education to provide each public basic education teacher with a cash allowance of P10,000 starting on school year 2025-2026 and onwards.

The allowance is exempted from income tax, providing a significant relief to teachers who have long borne the burden of shouldering the cost of teaching supplies out of their own pockets.

As principal author of the bill, Castro said she has been advocating for the passage of the TSA Act for over a decade.

culture department’s technical working group will be prepared to implement the inoculation drive nationwide as President Marcos no less announced at a hog industry event last May.

“There is no reason for FDA officials

to take their own sweet time in accrediting the BAI-endorsed imported vaccine from Vietnam and allowing its commercial use, given that they had been fast enough in registering the imported vaccines that were used in our anti-COVID drive at the height of the pandemic,” Villafuerte said.

Villafuerte said the vaccine rollout that the DA’s TWG on Vaccination against ASF is set to start this June or July, as announced by the President himself,.

He said the move is expected to “reinvigorate” the local hog industry, which “continues to reel from a pork supply shortfall and the consequent market

price spike despite the numerous policy measures that the DA (Department of Agriculture) and its BAI (Bureau of Animal Industry) have initiated in recent years to repopulate the domestic pig population in the face of recurring ASF outbreaks nationwide.

An animal disease with an almost 100-percent fatality rate for infected pigs and boars, the ASF surfaced in Asia in 2018 and then hit the Philippines in 2019, leading to a 50-percent drop in the domestic swine population from 13 million heads pre-ASF to 6.6 million heads in 2021.

The domestic pork inventory has continued to fall in the absence of a

IN BRIEF

MMDA to put up rain shelters for MC riders

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is set to establish at least 14 motorcycle lay-bys under flyovers located along Epifanio de los Santos (EDSA) Ave., Circumferential Road - 5 (C-5 Road), and Commonwealth Ave. to protect motorcycle riders during heavy downpours.

The project is expected to be opened to the public in July.

On Friday, the MMDA inspected one of the proposed motorcycle laybys situated at the ground level of the Quezon Ave. flyover in Quezon City to ensure its readiness.

The emergency lay-by has allocated spaces for motorcycles and bicycles with designated entrance and exit signs.

“The establishment of emergency lay-bys along major thoroughfares aims to provide temporary shelter for motorcycle riders during rainfall,” said MMDA chairman RomandoArtes. Joel E. Zurbano

BOC captures P17.7m smuggled cigarettes

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized some P 17.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes at the Port of Davao.

The intercepted items consisted of 15,150 reams of cigarettes, 35 sacks of assorted shoes, and one truck.

The BOC-Davao is set to file appropriate charges against the suspected smugglers for violations of Republic Act No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Acting district collector Maita Acevedo said the seizure was made possible following a tip from a concerned citizen who reported the presence of a suspicious truck in their area.

The confiscated smuggled cigarettes will be destroyed, she added.

The BOC vowed to continue to uphold the rule of law and prioritize protecting the Filipino people from the harmful effects of illicit tobacco products, she said. Vito Barcelo

Caloocan gov’t gives P10k to honor grads

THE Caloocan City government, in partnership with the Schools Division Office (SDO), welcomed its graduates who completed their elementary and secondary education for school year 2023-2024.

Around 100 students from grade school to senior high school who garnered honors received P10,000 as cash incentive from the city administration Mayor Dale Gonzalo Malapitan, commended the graduates for their “discipline and hard work, as well as the proud parents, teachers, and school staff who all exerted their best efforts to help the students earn their achievements.”

Malapitan also declared that his administration will continue to focus on programs geared towards the empowerment of the youth and further improvements in the education system of the city. Jun David

Parents’ group slams launch of vape products using known bloggers

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

GRASSROOTS movement Parents

Against Vape (PAV) strongly condemned the recent launch of vape brands ‘Shift’ and ‘Chillax’ in collaboration with popular social media personalities during the inaugural

VapeFest in Pasig City.

In a statement, the PAV charged that the brands employed marketing tactics to present vaping as fun and harmless, targeting the youth. The event featured prominent social media influencers, who endorsed vaping, which authorities said pose serious

health risks to the users.

PAV said the endorsements violated Republic Act (RA) No. 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act. The law expressly prohibits the appearance of or endorsement by celebrities and social media influencers in marketing and

promoting vape products.

Section 16 of RA 11900 clearly states that any form of advertising, promotion, and sponsorship featuring celebrities or social media influencers to endorse or promote the use of vape products is strictly forbidden, the group pointed out.

By Jessica M. Bacud

TUGUEGARAO City— Cagayan marks its 441 st anniversary with month-long activities dubbed Aggao Nac Cagayan from June 1 to July 2 with the theme “Pagguruffunan, Endless Cagayan” heralding the province’s gains in tourism and other economic drivers.

Gov. Manuel Mamba said the observance would be “30 days of fun” that fall on his eighth year of political leadership in the province.

“We deserve this since we have been doing our uttermost in the service of our people, inspiring our people, and the greatest time to show them that all we are doing is in one direction as we support each Cagayano,” Mamba told reporters during a press briefing.

“Pagguruffunan (pagtutulungan, pagkaykaysa) is what we need during these trying times. This is the

most challenging time we have had. There are numerous challenges that we face in the province, as well as on a global scale,” the governor noted.

“Let us unite in the midst of the challenge. We want to feel that we can help each other at this time. Let us unite, bury our differences, and move in the same direction,” he added.

According to him, Cagayan has changed greatly since 2016.

“We have proven our worth within the Cagayan provincial government. I believe we have had an impact on the lives of countless Cagayanos, he said.

His wife, lawyer Mabel Villarica-Mamba who was named chairperson of the Aggao Nac Cagayan 2024 steering committee, said the festival will be highlighted throughout all festivities.

“We have always endeavored to make the current Aggao Nac Cagayan celebration the best one ever,” she said.

PHILIPPINE RED CROSS VOLUNTEERS. More than 600 Philippine Red Cross volunteers from Northern and Central Luzon regions take their oath en masse in ceremony held at the

PRC Logistics and Training Center in Subic Bay Freeport Zone , Olongapo City. On hand to preside at the event are PRC chairman Richard Gordon, PRC secretary-general Dr. Gwen Pang, and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies president Kate Forbes.

DON’T ABOLISH FILIPINO SIGN LANGUAGE. Members and supporters of the Philippine Federation of the Deaf stage a protest rally at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila to call on Commission on the Filipino Language (CFL) to retain the Filipino Sign Language (FSL) unit. The group asserted that abolition of the sign language would deprive deaf Filipinos of their language rights and violate the mandate of the Commission on the Filipino Language Act which aims to develop, propagate, and preserve Filipino and other Philippine languages. Norman Cruz

CAGAYAN DAY. Cagayan officials led by Gov. Manuel Mamba hold a press conference to announce the observance of the province’s 441 st founding anniversary during the whole month of June.

OPINION

Limitations to a lawyer’s speech

(First of 2 parts)

FREEDOM of speech is indisputably not absolute.

Permissible restrictions of the lawyer’s freedom of speech is imperative in the orderly administration of justice, and to ensure that their statements do not contribute to generating adverse public opinion towards the courts or the litigants.

“As guardians, protectors, and final arbiters of the rule of law, people rely on us (judiciary) ‘with substantial certainty [and] encourages the resolution of disputes in courtrooms rather than on the streets.’”

This promotes the “public’s confidence in judicial independence both in its decisions and in the institution as a whole” (ABS-CBN Corporation, et. al. v. Ampatuan, G.R. 227004, April 25, 2023).

To protect the courts, they “exercise inherent contempt powers by restricting speech that tends to bring the court into disrespect or scandalize[s] the court, or where there is clear and present danger that would impede the administration of justice. This kind of utterance… affects judicial independence… [and erodes] public confidence in the competence and integrity of the courts” (loc. cit.).

“Strict scrutiny is employed in the permissibility of restriction of speech that is based on content. Under this test, restrictions on the legitimate exercise of citizens’ rights are minimal and only to the extent necessary to achieve the State’s compelling interest” (loc. cit.).

“The courts restrain contemptuous speech by way of punishment for indirect contempt under Rule 71, Section 3(d) of the Rules of Court.

“These types of speech, which are considered improper conduct, include (1) violation of the sub judice rule; (2) degrading comments or criticisms that put the courts in disrepute; and (3) publications violating the confidentiality of administrative proceedings” (loc. cit.).

“The right to criticize the courts should be done with respect, such that criticisms and comments must be ‘bona fide, and shall not spill over the walls of decency and propriety.’ The nature and manner of the criticism are relevant in determining whether this right has been abused” (loc. cit.).

Hence, “[t]he power to punish for contempt will generally not lie against a trustful, sincere, and respectful statement of an opinion.

“However, publication of lies against the courts is contemptuous speech [and] [t]he imposition of subsequent punishment against calculated falsehoods is a permissible restriction on the freedom of speech” (loc. cit.).

“Comments or criticisms of lawyers against the courts may be subject to greater limitation and scrutiny, owing to the Lawyer’s Oath and the Code of Profes-

sional Responsibility and Accountability.”

“Lawyers do not shed their obligations to this Court (Supreme Court) regardless of the role they choose to fulfill” (loc. cit.).

“They are duty bound to comply with the ethical standards of the profession inside and outside judicial proceedings.

“Hence, a lawyer, who is also a member of the press, cannot claim to exercise press freedom at the expense of their obligations under the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability” (loc. cit.).

“Litigants and their counsels are in closest proximity to the courts as parties in judicial proceedings.

“Their speech is subject to the greatest restriction because they voluntarily agree to abide by the Rules of Court and the decorum required in judicial proceedings” (loc. cit.).

To protect the courts, they “exercise inherent contempt powers by restricting speech that tends to bring the court into disrespect or scandalize[s] the court

“In choosing to resolve their disputes before the courts, they agree to its resolution through fair and impartial proceedings without resorting to undue advantage other than arguing the merits of the case.”

“ [T]he court has restricted public speech that violates the sub judice rule, the confidentiality of administrative proceedings, and illegitimate criticisms of litigants and their counsels…” (loc. cit.).

The public speech of litigants and their counsel pertaining to the case should be assessed based on a clear and present danger of a substantive evil that will affect the administration of justice.

“This will be a matter for the court to assess based on the content of the speech, how it was delivered, and the platform used” (loc. cit.).

“This Court (Supreme Court) is very much aware that defendants must protect and defend their reputation when sued publicly and will give this the utmost consideration when they claim their freedom of speech.”

However, “lawyer-litigants who choose to use their skill to recklessly file cases to further their fame and notoriety… will be subject to the appropriate provisions of the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability and their commitments under the Lawyers’ Oath” (loc. cit.).

PBBM at the Shangrila Dialogue

THE four-day 21st Shangri-La Security Dialogue meeting ends today in Singapore. This security dialogue platform has become increasingly prominent among the countless such platforms around the world as tension between the two major world superpowers, China and the US, seem to be reaching a crescendo.

Last Shangri-La dialogue in June 2023, the tension between the US and Chinese delegations was palpable, at one point Lt. Gen. Jing Jianfeng, vice chief of the Central Military Commission’s Joint Staff Department said, US Defense Secretary Austin had tried to “pull out of Beijing’s one-China principle.”

A much-awaited meeting of the defense chiefs of the two superpowers never materialized.

Every year the Shangri-La Dialogue organizers await China’s acceptance of the invitation to attend the event without which, the forum would be lackluster, and it is fortunate that China has announced its Defense Minister Dong Jun will be attending and will deliver a keynote speech on China’s “Approach to Global Security.”

The Shangri-La Dialogues is convened by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) think tank focusing on defense and security issues headquartered in London and funded mainly by Western governments and its allies.

The Global South is severely underrepresented in the forum. The suspected bias of the forum, including host Singapore, should be kept in mind.

It is obvious the US proxy-dent, BBM, is given such an exalted role at the 2024 Shangri-La Security Dialogue by the London-based IISS to focus wider attention on the US-engineered Project Myoushu

Philippine President Bongbong Marcos, Jr. was also invited and slated to deliver the keynote address which the Presidential Communications Office headlines in its news release “PBBM is this year’s world leader to deliver keynote for 21st Shangri-La Dialogue,” adding “Only one leader delivers this address every year, and President Marcos was given the distinct honor...”

Again, the Masungi Georeserve

SOMETHING is simmering in the Masungi Georeserve in Baras, Rizal, a protected forest reserve 52 kilometers east of Manila.

In 2023, there was an uproar surrounding it which involved the discovered construction by a Singapore-based company – thanks to conservationists monitoring the area – of four drilling rigs operating massive wind turbines within the ostensibly protected wildlife sanctuary.

The construction equipment belongs to a company building a wind farm within the reserve, which claimed to have received the necessary permits although the area has a protected status.

Masungi Georeserve Foundation, Inc., the nonprofit organization managing the site, launched a petition calling for the project to be canceled, saying renewable energy generation should not be pursued at the expense of the environment.

The Masungi Karst Conservation Area, declared a strict nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary since 1993, is home to more than 400 wildlife species.

Drone images from 2023 captured by the Masungi Georeserve Foundation, Inc., the nonprofit organization that manages the site, showed Rizal Wind Energy

Corp., owned by a Singapore-based energy developer, was behind the construction, drilling to build 12 wind turbines as part of a renewable energy project.

The Masungi issue gets into sharper focus after the Office of the Ombudsman ordered a preventive suspension against Bohol Gov. Erico Aris Aumentado and 68 other officials from different government agencies over the construction and operation of the controversial Captain’s Peak Resort on Chocolate Hills.

—“—

According to the DENR Investigation Committee formed in 2019, the billings by Blue Star are without legal basis

Officials are suspended for six months without pay, based on the order signed by Edilberto Sandoval, Special Prosecutor and Ombudsman Officer-In-Charge on May 22. The Masungi issue is getting more interesting after the construction company that built the resort in the environmentally protected Upper Marikina River Basin billed the government more than P1 bil-

THE book “Balangay stories” is a collection of five short stories about the exploits of a family in the Kingdom of Butuan.

Published by Xavier University Press and written by Maria Elena Paulma, with illustrations by Ghrn Brivan.

It is one of the best books I have read in the last few years.

A short book that holds your attention up to the very last page, it is a collection that leaves you feeling inspired and hopeful for the lessons the reader will learn from its written words, showcasing the author’s talent as a consummate storyteller.

The Balangay Stories, rivetingly simple but extremely powerful in their presentation, is a must read, not only for history buffs but for every Filipino who has a keen interest in revisiting the roots of our past.

The author, Maria Elena Paulma, walks us through the exploits of the family and the community members who built the Balangay, as they use it for leisure and trade. Paulma describes the drama and excitement as the protagonists navigate the waters in their principal means of transport, the Balangay.

The term is also with the smallest discrete political units, which later referred to native villages under the Spanish colonial era.

In the second story the Butuanons go to the neighboring trade mission to China and how the father of the family is able to secure the release of a girl from a lifetime of servitude.

The history of trade between Butuanons and China dates back centuries, reflecting the rich maritime heritage of the Philippines. Their voyages facilitated the exchange of goods like ceramics, silk, spices, and precious metals.

The oldest known balangay, the Butuan

It is a stretch to describe BBM as a “world leader” who was treated by US President Biden during the ”Triad” or trilateral meeting in the US last April 2023 as a “second class” leader denied of equal honors accorded to Kishida, and seen by ASEAN, Asian and Global South leaders now as a mere sidekick of the US.

BBM is losing the country: the antiBBM movement growing broader every week from one Maisug rally to another going around the country even as the government tries to suppress each and every site blocked with tractors and trailers, a MAD (Marcos Alis Dyan) movement just launched early this week and a third of the people losing trust in him in only the second year.

“World leader” BBM settled for a meeting on the aisles of the Nov. 2023 San Francisco APEC meeting, to tell President Xi Jinping he’d like to “ease

lion supposedly for its failure to deliver lands in the government’s own territory.

The latest statement of account sent by Blue Star Construction and Development Corporation to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources dated April 11 cited expenses incurred from the “unrealized delivery” by the agency of a 10-hectare parcel of land allocated for the National Bilibid Prisons.

The billing cited legal, security, and miscellaneous expenses, damages incurred from the delay of the delivery of the lot, and even a monthly rental of P100,000 paid to a “professional squatter.”

The statement also indicated the expenses were incurred starting in June 2018.

According to the DENR Investigation Committee formed in 2019, the billings by Blue Star are without legal basis.

“The contracts entered into by BSCDC (Blue Star) had legal infirmities ranging from unlawful excise of land for housing purposes in a National Park to award of contracts without bidding,” the Committee stated.

Like the surprised Alice in Wonderland, who found the pool was getting quite crowded with the birds and animals that had fallen into it, things at Masungi Georeserve getting `Curiouser and curiouser!’

The Masungi breeze is being keenly observed.

Balangay Stories

boats, have been dated back to 320 AD through carbon dating. Unearthed from various sites in Butuan, Agusan del Norte, these vessels are a testament to ancient maritime prowess.

The third tale in the collection is about how one of the sons, taking part in the balangay race, is able to save himself and his companions from sure disaster after their boat got lost in the sea.

—“—

The trade between Butuanons and China exemplifies the enduring ties forged through maritime exploration and commerce

Incidentally, the Balangay was guided through the seas devoid of contemporary navigation tools, instead depending entirely on the expertise and age-old techniques of the Filipino Sea Badjao community. They adeptly maneuvered by utilizing the positions of the sun, stars, wind direction, cloud formations, wave behaviors, and the movements of migratory birds.

The Butuanons’ mastery of maritime skills and ancient navigation techniques is highlighted, including the tradition of Balangay races, leading to encounters with characters like the timid Ilian and the skilled potter Jubail. Prehistoric pottery, together with clay

tensions in the SCS between the Philippines and China” and when Wescom chief Adm. Albert Carlos “operationalizes” the “easing of tension,” throwing him under the bus. The AFP is simmering. YouTube Blogs of retired generals like “The General’s Viewpoint,” FB posts of exgenerals Orlando E. de Leon and Romeo Poquiz protesting the mismanagement of the nation are getting tens of thousands of views each day. BBM had to go around the military camps to speak out against “destabilization.”

All is not well, Mr. World Leader.

It is obvious the US proxy-dent, BBM, is given such an exalted role at the 2024 Shangri-La Security Dialogue by the London-based IISS to focus wider attention on the US-engineered Project Myoushu and its propaganda “assertive transparency” staging “water cannon

adornments such as the lingling-o and pendants, unveils the nascent stages of artistic expression in the archipelago.

These artifacts not only fulfilled practical functions but also played a pivotal role in shaping social identities within ancient communities.’

Butuan’s prosperity as a trading hub is attributed to its abundance of gold, narrated in tales passed down by Spanish explorers.

The trade between Butuanons and China exemplifies the enduring ties forged through maritime exploration and commerce. Then, the best of all, there is the story of eldest brother’s journey for the first time in a Balangay and discovers for himself what treasures are most precious.

The book endeavors to teach us how, through these tales, we, contemporary Filipinos, can discover our true identities and learn about our ancestors.

My Butuanon friends -- University of the Philippines President Angelo Jimenez, former Legal Education Board Commissioner Jojo S. Ty, Urios University President Fr. John Young, and the author herself -- all people I admire, have been true to this identity and know what are our most precious treasures.

They have found their inner Balangay and that is why they are leaders not only of Butuan but of Mindanao and the Philippines.

Since my high school days, when I met Butuanons from Urios University High School in a music competition in Cagayan de Oro, I have always loved Butuan and Butuanons.

This book makes me fall in love with that place and its people all over again. Website: tonylavina.com Facebook: Tony La Viña or tonylavs X: tonylavs

me” forays for the Western media circus to propagate around the world.

The US wrought most of the problems the proxy-dent has on his head, the schism with the mass of Duterte supporters was by US poking of the International Criminal Court case against Duterte, the conflicted foreign policy by US military bases accepted by the proxy-dent, the dearth of investments the geopolitical-economic alienation of China.

We have supported BBM and seek to save him, as the Marcos matriarch Imelda tried making a very public visit to the new Chinese Embassy chancery opening, and Imee Marcos playing devil’s advocate to the administration.

We wonder if his words at the ShangriLa Security Dialogue will serve as a turnaround or a deepening of the hole he has dug. (rpkapunan@gmail.com)

Thousands affected by Mindoro spill get aid

IN BRIEF

CHR supports measure on refugees in PH

THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday backed the filing of Senate Bill No. 2548 or An Act Protecting the Rights of Refugees and Stateless Persons, Establishing the Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Board, and For Other Purposes to help strengthen the Philippines’ compliance to international standards.

“The Commission welcomes SB 2548 as this further capacitates the Philippines in its obligation to respect, protect, and fulfill the rights of refugees and stateless persons under the 1951 United Nations Convention and the 1954 UN Convention, respectively. It is commendable that as a State Party to various international conventions and treaties, the Philippines continuously forwards policies that reaffirm our commitment to adopt the generally accepted principles of international law within the domestic sphere,” it said. Also known as the Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Act, SB 2548 filed by Senator Robin Padilla seeks to recognize, strengthen and promote the rights of such sector in the country. Rio N. Araja

Solons hope better Senate collaboration

HOUSE Assistant Majority Leaders Jay Khonghun of Zambales and Francisco Paolo Ortega of La Union have expressed optimism that Sen. Francis Escudero’s election as the new Senate President will be the start of a “new era” marked by better collaboration between the two chambers.

“Senate President Chiz Escudero brings invaluable experience and leadership to the Senate... We look forward to a strong partnership between the Senate and the House to advance legislation that benefits the Filipino people,” Khonghun said. He specifically highlighted Escudero’s “pragmatic approach and dedication to public service.” Ortega likewise said that Escudero’s election is a positive development for both chambers of Congress.

“This marks a new chapter for the Senate, one where cooperation and effective governance can thrive... It signals a new era of collaboration and synergy between our legislative bodies,” Ortega said. Maricel V. Cruz

Coast Guard officer faces extortion charge

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has filed a case against a Coast Guard officer who allegedly tried to extort P150,000 from an applicant in exchange for a “guaranteed” entrance into the PCG. The PCG identified the officer as CG Petty Officer Third Class (PO3) Ibrahim Banota. The alleged incident occurred amid the ongoing PCG nationwide recruitment cycle for calendar year 2024. The PCG said it received a report regarding the illegal activity of the said Coast Guard personnel on May 19. Five days later, the PCG and Criminal Investigation and

La Union reports large increase in rice production

THE province of La Union registered an increase in its rice production by 5.79 metric tons per hectare in 2023, contributing to the performance of the province as the third fastest-growing economy nationwide obtaining a 10.2% growth rate.

In celebration of this feat and in time for the Farmers and Fisherfolks Month this May, the provincial government recognized farmers and fisherfolk for their contribution in the sustained strength in agricultural production of the province.

Some 33 farmers, fisherfolks and agripreneurs were honored during the Aldaw ti Pammadayaw on May 27 at the La Union Convention Center, City of San Fernando, La Union.

Gov. Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-

David expressed gratitude to the farmers and fisherfolks of the province for their resilience, solidarity and crucial role towards boosting the economy and attaining the vision of the province to be the Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025.

“May this recognition serve to uplift the morale of our local farmers, fisherfolk and agricultural workers. We at the PGLU firmly believe that they play such a significant role in ensuring the sustained prosperity of our local economy,” the governor said.

Named Most Outstanding Farmers were Medardo Ordinario, Norberto Zabala Jr., Joselyn Estolas, Freddie Monis, Lapicto Bugtong, Nelson Tavas, and Julius Caesar Dumaguin. Meanwhile, Most Outstanding Fisherfolk were Dante Noces, Jose Dayap, Lorna Bautista, Jomar Hidalgo, Vivian Casuga, Arnulfo Velasco, Marcial Sobrepena, Delailah Lacadue, and Rolando Rabang.

Recipients of the Most Outstanding Organic Farmer awards were Primo Balderas, Federico Rullamas and Florencia Mendoza. The Most Outstanding Agricultural Entrepreneur Awards were garnered by Rowena Ramos, Shirley Bernal, Josephine Culbengan, Emily Tucay, Valentin Dangpilen, Lopemae Hana Bautista, Jefte Dangalan, Timoteo De Guzman, Jose Laroya and Geneva Ganalon.

SC voids BIR self-employed rule on rates, appointment books

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court (SC) has invalidated a Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) regulation requiring self-employed professionals to submit their rates and register appointment books to monitor their tax compliance, saying it violates individual rights to privacy.

Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen authored the landmark decision released on Friday, May 31, in which the SC voided portions of BIR Revenue Regulation (RR) No. 4-2014, or the Guidelines and Policies for the Monitoring of Service Fees of Professionals.

The SC ruled that the regulation infringed on the privacy rights of professionals and their clients.

Implemented on March 3, 2014, the regulation mandated self-employed professionals to submit an affidavit detailing their rates and billing methods, register their appointment books, and issue BIR-

registered receipts for pro bono cases.

The SC had previously issued a temporary restraining order against this policy on April 22, 2014, following petitions from professional associations challenging its constitutionality. It stated that these requirements exceeded the BIR’s authority, as they were irrelevant to its primary duty of tax assessment and collection.

Further, the Court emphasized that such regulations breached the privacy of professionals and their clients, who have a reasonable expectation of confidentiality in their appointments and interactions.

The decision highlighted that while names and appointment dates alone may appear harmless, compiling this information could reveal patterns of behavior, potentially disclosing private details. This breach of confidentiality conflicts with ethical standards in professional practices.

By Vito Varcelo

MORE than 62,000 workers affected by the Mindoro oil spill last year received livelihood assistance from the government worth P257 million, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Friday.

In a statement, the department said that the workers in CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, and Western Visayas, the majority of them fishers, were affected by the oil spill when a tanker carrying 800,000 liters of industrial oil capsized off the coast of Naujan, Oriental Mindoro on February 28, 2023.

“From March to December 2023, DOLE provided temporary employment to some 61,929 workers, mostly fisherfolk, through its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) Program. Meanwhile, over P3 million worth of livelihood aid was also awarded to 210 workers in the three regions under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program,” the Labor department said.

In MIMAROPA, 57,067 workers employed under the TUPAD program received wages amounting to P220,582,571; while 110 workers in Brgy. Calima received livelihood assistance amounting to P1 million. Some affected workers were also provided skills training on small engine repair, organic farming, carpentry, masonry, motor vehicle driving, etc. The Labor Department allocated P5,663,790 to cover the trainees’ stipend. In Western Visayas, 2,063 affected workers in Antique were provided with temporary employment and received salaries amounting to a total of P17,874,578. A total of 100 beneficiaries in Brgys. Semirara, Sibolo, Tinogboc, and Sibato were also awarded livelihood assistance amounting to P2.020 million. Lastly, 2,034 workers in Isla Verde and Tingloy in Batangas were given temporary employment from May to June 2023 and received wages amounting to P10,251,184.

JT’s Manukan Grille, a popular Filipino restaurant chain known for its grilled chicken, announced that it will be opening a branch in Singapore on June 25. The new store--the company’s 40th branch—is located at the Asian Food Mall in Lucky Plaza and will offer the same delicious dishes that has made the brand a favorite

brand and represent our country abroad” said Joel Torre, a renowned Filipino actor and the company’s CEO. Torre founded the chain in 2003 with his wife, Cristy, as a corner barbecue stall in Quezon City, Philippines. They currently operate 39 branches around the country. Wong Ban

SOLAR LIGHTS DISPLAY. Philippine-based grassroots solar lighting movement Liter of Light puts on a display of lights in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The display is said to be the ‘World’s Largest Solar Powered Light Bulb’ artwork.

Biden lets Kyiv to hit Russia with US arms

WASHINGTON, DC—

President Joe Biden has lifted restrictions on Ukraine using weapons supplied by the United States against targets on Russian territory, but only to defend the under-fire Kharkiv region, US officials said Thursday.

Biden has come under increasing pressure from a desperate Ukraine to ease his ban, but had so far resisted amid fears it could drag NATO into direct conflict with Moscow.

“The president recently directed his team to ensure that Ukraine is able to use US-supplied weapons for counter-fire purposes in the Kharkiv region so Ukraine can hit back against Russian forces that are attacking them or preparing to attack them,” a US official said on condition of anonymity.

“Our policy with respect to prohibiting the use of ATACMS or long range strikes inside of Russia has not changed,” the official said, referring to longrange missiles recently sent by Washington to Kyiv.

A second US official confirmed Biden’s change of policy.

In related developments:

A new Pentagon report says Russia is using North Korean ballistic missiles in Ukraine, citing debris analysis to confirm long-standing allegations that Pyongyang has been sending weapons to Moscow.

The report by the Pentagon’s Defense Intelligence Agency used open-source imagery to confirm that debris found in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region in January this year is from a short-range ballistic missile made in North Korea.

“Analysis confirms that Russia used ballistic missiles produced in North Korea in its war against Ukraine,” the DIA said in a statement released with the report on Wednesday.

“North Korean missile debris was found throughout Ukraine,” it added.

South Korea accuses Pyongyang of sending thousands of containers of munitions to Russia, which would violate rafts of United Nations sanctions on both countries.

The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this month denied the allegations that Pyongyang is shipping weapons to Russia, calling the claim “absurd”. AFP

NATO downplays Kremlin threat over US weapons

PRAGUE, Czech Republic—NATO chief Jens

Stoltenberg Friday downplayed Kremlin threats of escalation after President Joe Biden secretly lifted restrictions on Ukraine using US-supplied weapons against targets inside Russian territory, as five people were killed in an overnight strike on Kharkiv.

The daily pounding of Ukraine’s second-biggest city has caused a shift in Washington’s thinking, which has heretofore resisted allowing Ukraine to use longer-range US weapons to attack Russian territory, fearing it could drag NATO into the direct conflict with Russia.

The Kremlin accused the West on Thursday of “entering a new round of escalations in tensions”.

Stoltenberg, speaking to reporters at a meeting of

Israel pummels Gaza as troops push deeper into central Rafah

RAFAH, Palestinian Territories

—Israeli forces on Friday struck targets across the Gaza Strip, with witnesses reporting air raids around the southern city of Rafah, the latest focus of the nearly eight-month war.

Israel launched its military incursion into Rafah in early May despite international objections over the safety of civilians sheltering in the city on Gaza’s border with Egypt.

A strike that sparked a fire and killed dozens in a displacement camp at the weekend drew a wave of fresh condemnation.

Witnesses said Friday Israeli strikes hit the Rafah area as well as central Gaza’s Nuseirat, and an AFP correspondent reported intense bombardment in the north.

Strikes on two separate locations killed a total of 11 people overnight, medical sources at a hospital in Deir al-Balah and the Nuseirat refugee camp reported.

The Israeli military said its troops “continue... operational activities” in the Rafah area, and found rocket launchers, weapons and “tunnel shafts” in the city center. An air strike “targeted and eliminated” a militant in that area, it added.

NATO foreign ministers in Prague, responded that

“this is part of efforts by President (Vladimir) Putin and Moscow to prevent NATO allies from supporting Ukraine to defend themselves, and, again, Ukraine has the right for self defence and we have the right to help Ukraine.”

US officials said Thursday that Biden had lifted restrictions on Ukraine using weapons supplied by the United States against targets on Russian territory, but only to defend Kharkiv.

Overnight, Russian strikes on a residential area in Kharkiv city killed five people and wounded at least 23 others, including two children, regional police said early Friday, warning residents could still be trapped under the rubble.

Egypt, a longtime mediator in the conflict, has yet to officially comment on the Israeli takeover, which officials have previously said could violate the two countries’ 1979 peace deal.

Amid stalled diplomatic efforts towards a ceasefire, Hamas said it had informed mediators it would only agree a “comprehensive” truce agreement including a hostage-prisoner swap if Israel halts its “aggression”.

On Thursday, Israel said its forces had killed about 300 Palestinian militants in Rafah since launching its military operation in the city.

A stream of civilians fled Rafah, taking their belongings on their shoulders, in cars or on donkey-drawn carts. Before the Rafah offensive began, the United Nations said up to 1.4 million people were sheltering in the city. Since then, one million have fled the area, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, has said. AFP

In central Gaza, further air strikes “eliminated several terrorists who operated near” troops, the military said without elaborating. Israel, which has repeatedly vowed to destroy Hamas after the Palestinian militant group attacked southern Israel on October 7, said on Wednesday its forces had taken over the 14-kilometer Philadelphi corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border, where it alleges weapons were being smuggled.

UNDERGROUND MUSEUM. A tourist visits the Monumental Underground Museum 180 at the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquira, Colombia, on May 30, 2024. Located 180 meters underground, this museum will become a focus of knowledge, art, and pride of Colombia for the whole world, with 11 sculptures in relief on salt walls and 11 in marble blocks, making it the rst art museum made underground in a salt mine, said Yenny Páez Sabogal, Salt Cathedral Manager. AFP

SATURDAY, JUNE 1, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

PH-born Saso leads, Korda collapses at US Open

LANCASTER—World no. 1 Nelly

Korda’s hopes of a third major title imploded with a spectacular first-round meltdown at the US Women’s Open on Thursday as former champion Yuka

The Philippine-born Saso, who now plays for Japan, overcame brutal conditions to take a one-shot lead.

Korda arrived at Lancaster Country Club in Pennsylvania as a heavy favorite after winning six of her past seven starts, including the year’s first major tournament at the Chevron Championship in April.

But the 25-year-old American now faces an uphill struggle to even make the cut after carding a 10-over-par 80 —the highest score of her LPGA Tour career— during a hellish opening 18 holes. Teeing off on the back nine, Korda’s round went up in smoke after a nightmare 10 on the par-3 12th hole. With six more bogeys and three birdies, Korda finished the day tied for 139th place, 12 strokes off the lead.

“I just didn’t really want to shoot 80 and I just kept making bogeys,” Korda said. “I’m human. I’m going to have bad days. I played some really solid golf up to this point. Today was just a bad day. That’s all I can say.” Korda opened her round with a bogey on her first hole at the 10th followed by a par 11. She was then forced to endure a lengthy wait before her horror 10 on the 12th. AFP

Obiena bags Bislett tilt bronze medal using 2 borrowed poles

By Peter Atencio

TWO borrowed poles saved Ernest John “EJ” Obiena’s campaign on Friday at the Diamond League - Oslo Bislett Games in Norway.

American KC Lightfoot, who claimed the gold medal, allowed Obiena to use his gear, and so did Dutch bet Menno Vloon after EJ’s pole broke during practice.

Obiena went on to clear 5.72 meters for the bronze medal, following a countback with five others, including Emmanouil Karalis of Greece, who settled for the silver.

Lightfoot, who topped the event with a clearance of 5.82 meters, and Vloon, lent their poles to Obiena.

“Diamond League of the season here in Oslo. First, another pole broken and it’s not even…. On the brighter side of things, thanks to Vlo and KC Lightfoot for lending me poles to jump on. Greatly appreciate it, gentleman,” said Obiena in thanking

Lightfoot and Vloon for their help. Vloon landed at 6th place with the same 5.72m clearance, behind Katralis, Obiena, Sam Kendricks and Bo Kanda Lita Baehre. Obiena is next headed for the Bauhas Galan in Stockholm, Sweden this Sunday for another Diamond League event. World and Olympic champion Armand Duplantis and other Paris Olympics rivals will be there to compete with Obiena. Three days ago, Obiena broke his pole during competition and landed seventh place at the 2024 Ostrava Golden Spike - World Athletics Continental Tour Gold in Ostrava,

Czech Republic. The incident came at the end of a frustrating week for the 28-year-old Obiena, who began encountering issues while trying to transport his gear from Los Angeles to Europe. Duplantis ruled the said event after clearing 6.00m, while Ethan Cormont of France took the silver at 5.62 meters. Belgian Ben Broeders settled for the bronze, also at 5.62 meters. Obiena managed to clear 5.52 meters before missing out on his attempt 5.72 meters twice.

After that, Obiena’s pole snapped in two, while he was up in the air trying clear 5.82 meters.

Gilas Women U18 bracketed with Lebanon, Syria, Maldives

BY sweeping the FIBA Under-18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers recently, the Gilas Pilipinas U18 team took the first steps needed to regain Division A status.

Next comes the big leap.

Putting on a masterful performance in Ratchaburi, the Philippine squad, coached by Julie Amos, swept the fourteam field, routing host Thailand 10358, Malaysia 100-68, and Indonesia 73-37.

Winning it all in SEABA means a lot to us,” said Amos. “We really wanted to qualify to the FIBA Asia Division B, and for us to be there we have to win against the host country Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.”

AN initial batch of 20 kids learning to fence have found a new place to train and compete with the Mandaleño Fencing Club.

A partnership with Greenfield Development Corporation has brought the club’s young members to a new place near EDSA at Greenfield District.

They can now play and learn the different levels of difficulty in the sport of fencing at a big hall located at the ground floor of the EDSA Pavilion Mall in Mandaluyong City.

“This venue is free of change. Now we have a home,” said Mandaleño Fencing founder Ariel Montinola.

The venue is more spacious than it once was when Montinola put up the club in January last year.

Sparring sessions with the Mandaleno club started as a two-day training each week at Anytime Fitness in Boni Avenue during the early days of the club back in January 2023. Now, they will be able to conduct training at the new venue at least five times a week.

Montinola, a former fencer at University of the East, was present during the opening of Mandaleño Fencing, with District II councilor Benjamin Abalos III, and Atty. Duane Santos, Executive Vice President of the Greenfield Development Corporation.

“This Greenfield District is a health and wellness district with so many countless activities for sports, fitness and wellness. Fencing is an ideal fit to the whole integral component of the district for health and wellness,” said Santos. Peter Atencio

She added: We knew it’s a longer journey and it’s a big task. The focus and determination to compete was there from Day 1 of training.

Amos said every game was treated like a final.

“We prepared every game with a championship game mentality. They

Lee, Suzuki dominate final round, clinch JPGT titles

LUBAO, Pampanga—Jiwon Lee and Shinichi Suzuki turned the final round of the 15-18 division of the Junior Philippine Golf Tour Luzon Series 2 into commanding victories as they posted similar 73s at the Pradera Verde Golf and Country Club here yesterday (Friday).

Lee, who all but secured her second consecutive JPGT crown by amassing a 17-stroke lead over Reese Ng in the third round, finished with a 37-36 card, mixing three birdies with four bogeys. Her four-day total of three-under 285 bested Ng by 20 shots, setting a new record early in the series.

Ng closed with a 76 for a 305 aggregate while Lia Duque placed third with a 310, matching Lee’s overover par score on both the first and third nines of the Pradera Verde golf complex.

The Korean’s stellar performance, highlighted by a brilliant six-under 66 in the first round, eclipsed Geoffrey Tan’s 19-shot triumph in the boys’ 11-14 category Thursday.

“In the last nine holes, I was super relaxed, having fun and felt no pressure,” said Lee, who initially aimed to score as low as possible. “But after going one-over at the front nine, I told myself, maybe not under-par but just do my best till the end.”

“The fairway conditions were tough because of the weather, but I don’t feel bad about that because

I still did my best and had fun. I think that’s what matters,” she added. With a series of imposing victories, the 16-yearold believes she’s ready to turn professional.

“I’ll wait another month to join amateur tournaments. In July, I might try to turn pro. I’m not in a hurry, but I really want to experience the field in the LPGT (Ladies Philippine Golf Tour) and see what it feels like to be a professional,” said Lee.

Suzuki, meanwhile, secured a six-shot victory over Tristan Padilla in the premier division on a 288 total. The Manila Southwoods standout extended his overnight five-stroke lead to nine with a run of eight pars against Padilla’s four consecutive bogeys in the first nine.

Suzuki’s closing one-over par card also proved enough to cushion the impact of a wavering 38 finish.

Reflecting on his performance this week, Suzuki emphasized the need to improve his patience especially during challenging stretches of competition.

“I think the only thing I need to work on at this stage is my patience. I tend to rush my shots,” said Suzuki, referring on his second-round struggle where he scored a 78 after an impressive opening 70. He, however, rebounded with a remarkable 67 in the pivotal round, leading to his runaway victory.

Well-wishers welcome the Gilas Women U18 team at the airport.

Yuka Saso of Japan plays her shot from the second tee during the rst round of the U.S. Women’s Open Presented by Ally at Lancaster Country Club on May 30, 2024 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. AFP

Grand Prix, finished with the

in the Diamond League -- Oslo Bislett Games in Norway. AFP

After a decisive victory in the boys’ premier division, Shinichi Suzuki receives a celebratory dousing from his younger brother, Ryuji, the back-to-back champion of the 8-10 age group. Manny Marcelo

PLANTING SEASON.

Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary for high-value crops

Cheryl Caballero examines Robusta trees. The DA and Nestlé Philippines observe the beginning of the coffee planting season 2024-2025 through a Robusta tree planting ceremony, calling on farmers to adopt regenerative agriculture to reduce the impact of climate change while futureproofing farms for the next generation of coffee farmers.

3.7% to 4.5%

BSP inflation forecast for May 2024

3.8% 3.4%

Inflation rate in April 2024

Average fourmonth inflation

Manila moves to 83rd spot in construction cost ranking

MANILA edged down slightly in the latest Arcadis 2024 International Construction Costs (ICC) report, moving from 81st to 83rd compared to 2023.

Arcadis, a global design and consultancy firm for natural and built assets, said the Philippine capital saw a minor improvement in its ranking among the most expensive cities to build in globally.

“Despite dropping two spots, construction costs in Manila remain high,” Arcadis said. The slight shift was likely due to steeper cost increases in other cities.

Joycelyn Pagcatipunan, sales director at Arcadis Philippines, said the Philippine construction market reflects the global trend of stabilization and recovery. However, she cautioned of potential challenges as infrastructure projects gain traction.

“These could include difficulties with construction programs, timelines, and securing skilled workers in a tighter market,” Pagcatipunan said. “Embracing technology and data-driven decision-making will be crucial for managing risks and ensuring project success.”

BSP sees May inflation hitting as high as 4.5%

By Darwin G. Amojelar

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Friday it expects the May 2024 inflation rate to settle between 3.7 percent and 4.5 percent on higher vegetable and electricity prices and weaker peso.

This represents an increase from 3.8 percent in April, 3.7 percent in March, 3.4 percent in February and 2.8 percent. Inflation settled at 6.1 percent in May 2023, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show.

The PSA will release the official May 2024 inflation rate next week.

Robert Dan Roces, chief economist of the Security Bank Corp., said inflation rate in May likely settled at 4.0 percent, with a range of 3.6 percent to 4.4 percent.

“We expect slower food price growth, although rice inflation remains a major culprit,” Roces said.

Lower prices of rice, fish and fruits as well as domestic oil and LPG could offset the upside price pressures, it said.

“Going forward, the BSP will continue to monitor developments affecting the outlook for inflation and growth in line with its data-dependent approach to monetary policy decision-making,” it said.

“Continued increases in electricity rates and vegetables prices alongside recent peso depreciation are the primary sources of upward price pressures for the month,” the BSP said in a statement.

“However, rising utility costs and a weakening Philippine peso, which inflates import prices, will counteract this slowdown. Transportation costs, on the other hand, are projected to offer some relief,” he said.

The government targets an inflation rate of 2 percent to 4 percent this year.

The Monetary Board, the policymaking body of the BSP, kept the overnight borrowing rate at 6.5 percent steady amid the lingering inflationary pressures.

PROCUREMENT

EXPERTS. Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman (seated, second from left) expresses gratitude to the Public Procurement Service (PPS) of the Republic of Korea led by administrator Lim Ki-Keun for sharing their expertise in innovative procurement. During the bilateral meeting on May 28, 2024, the PPS introduced its innovation procurement policy and its funded public procurement workshop and e-procurement capacitybuilding program led by the Asian Development Bank.

By Othel V. Campos

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) expressed support to Finance Secretary Ralph Recto’s proposal to reduce import tariffs on rice, saying this would ease inflation and stabilize the price of the staple.

FFCCCII supports Recto’s proposal to cut rice tariff DOE

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy (DOE) said Friday it created a nuclear energy division under the Energy Utilization Management Bureau after securing the approval of the Department Budget and Management on May 16, 2024.

It said the creation of the division is pursuant to Executive Order No. 116 dated July 24,2022, EO No. 164 dated Feb. 28, 2022 and House Resolution No. 134 dated Aug. 8, 2023 which urges the DOE to create an Office of Nuclear Energy, with plantilla positions of not less than 10 personnel who will promote, formulate, and

Prime Infra completes Tanauan solar plant

PRIME Infrastructure Capital Inc.’s wholly-owned subsidiary Prime Solar Solutions Corp. on Friday led the inauguration of its 64-megawatt solar power plant in Tanauan, Batangas.

“The completion of this plant is really a special milestone for us. This plant, combined with the other plant in Maragondon will be the first set of solar power plants that will be operated by Prime Infra and its subsidiary, Prime Solar,” said Prime Infra president and chief executive Guillaume Lucci.

“It’s certainly part of a wider portfolio strategy that we have, along with our other renewable

projects. These projects truly play a key role into achieving our primary commitment which is to build better lives and resilient economies through critical infrastructure—the kind of infrastructure that is socially relevant,” said Lucci. Prime Solar’s Tanauan plant, together with another in Maragondon, Cavite, will supply up to 128 megawatts of clean, renewable energy, powering about 84,000 households and displacing over 100,000 tons of coal per year.

Prime Solar has a 50-megawatt, 20-year power supply agreement with Meralco and will supply the rest of its output to the grid.

implement plans and programs to advance the utilization of nuclear energy in country.

The division, headed by DOE director Patrick Aquino, will promote, formulate and implement policies, plans and programs to advance the development, establishment and utilization of nuclear energy.

It will also coordinate with the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) and other concerned government agencies to establish a harmonized roadmap, policies, and proposed laws to cover and champion the 19 nuclear infrastructure issues.

It will conduct seminars, training courses, technical briefing, fora,

workshops and focused group discussions (FGD) to facilitate information, education and communication (IEC) campaigns on nuclear energy.

The division will also evaluate applications, permits and licenses and ensure strict compliance of operatorapplicants with existing regulations and standards on nuclear energy and maintain database inventory of operator-applicants and statuses of evaluation of applications.

The DOE expects to set up the country’s first nuclear facility by 2032 or 2033, officials said earlier.

Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the agency is “open to all technologies,” including nuclear.

Dr. Cecilio Pedro, president of FFCCCII, said lowering rice tariffs would address inflation worries, while promoting economic stability. He emphasized FFCCCII’s commitment to supporting Filipino farmers and fishermen. He also called for a dialogue with the Department of Agriculture (DA) to strike a balance between supporting local rice producers and the need to strengthen the nation’s economic resilience.

The group also reaffirmed its advocacy for modernizing agricultural technologies and providing essential support to boost rural incomes and ensure food security across the Philippines. Recto underscored the significance of tariff reduction amid declining global rice prices to meet the target of lowering rice prices by 20 percent by September 2024. He said the measure would deliver more affordable rice to the consuming public, as rice imports substantially supplement the nation’s staple supply.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

IRST Gen Corp. of the Lopez Group is allocating $1.27 billion for 2024 capital expenditures (capex), with the bulk going to its geothermal unit Energy Development Corp. (EDC), an executive said Friday.

First Gen executive vice president and chief finance officer and treasurer Emmanuel Antonio Singson said $670 million would be allocated for EDC, $525 million for the acquisition of the 165-megawatt Casecnan hydro power plant and the balance for the completion of interim offshore liquefied natural gas (LNG) and gas projects.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

DITO CME Holdings Corp., the owner of DITO Telecommunity, plans to raise up to P4.19 billion by selling new shares to investors.

DITO CME’s follow-on share sale involves offering 1.95 billion shares at a maximum price of P2.15 apiece. This represents up to 10 percent of DITO CME’s outstanding capital stock.

“The purpose of the follow-on offering is to raise funds

the will be infused as additional capital into its operating subsidiary, DITO Telecommunity Corp. in order to support its commercial roll-out of its network expansion and for general corporate requirements and for regulatory compliance with the public offering requirements,” DITO CME said.

DITO Telecommunity expects revenue to reach P20 billion this year, up from P11 billion in 2023. It also expects to achieve positive earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) by 2025.

the sum of Eight Million Nine Hundred Seventy Thousand Pesos and 00/100 Only (₱8,970,000.00) funded by General Fund and Two Million Seven Hundred Fifty-Seven Thousand Pesos and 00/100 Only (₱2,757,000.00) funded

for the

DITO is targeting 15 million to 16 million subscribers this year, up from the current subscriber base of 10.4 million. It aims to have 300,000 to 400,000 home broadband subscribers this year, up from 100,000 subscribers at present. The company said it also expects to pass the final mandatory performance audit by the National Telecommunications Commission by July this year.

The company earlier said it was on track to hitting a national population coverage of 84 percent by July from the current 82-percent coverage.

First Gen subsidiary Fresh River Lakes Corp. won the bid for the Casecnan hydro power plant.

“For Casecnan, we already secured financing, so we were already able to pay it. I think EDC also issued some green bonds to be able to finance the rigs…I think most of the fund-raising initiatives will be at the EDC level, because as I mentioned they are the ones that has a big capex of about $670 million,” Singson said during the company’s annual stockholders meeting. Meanwhile, First Gen is set to bring to commercial operation seven new power facilities with a total capacity of 83 megawatts (MW) by the end of the year.

First Gen president and chief operating officer Francis Giles Puno said the seven power projects are being developed by EDC.

These include four geothermal power plants with a combined capac-

MERALCO Energy Inc. (MSERV), a subsidiary of Manila Electric Co., is set to power the largest hyperscale data center of ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines (STT GDC Philippines).

“We are on track for significant progress by the third quarter of this year and anticipate completing the core structure and energizing power equipment for the data center. This will be a major milestone and demonstrates our ability to deliver on this project,” STT GDC Philippines president and chief executive Carlo Malana said.

The collaboration, which will foster innovation and drive technological advancement in the digital industry, will pave the way for the energization of the facility in Fairview, Quezon City this year.

MSERV was awarded the contract for the supply and installation of key data center electrical equipment such as high voltage gas-insulated switch gears, high voltage oil-

THE International Air Transport Association (IATA) said global passenger demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), rose 11 percent in April 2024 from a year ago.

Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), went up 9.6 percent year-on-year, while the April load factor improved to 82.4 percent.

International demand rose 15.8 percent compared to April 2023, as capacity increased 14.8 percent year-on-year and load factor improved to 82.2 percent. The IATA said domestic demand rose

immersed transformers, and medium voltage dry type transformers in November last year.

“Meralco’s commitment to providing reliable power is a significant factor in our selection for our STT Fairview data center project,” said STT GDC Philippines’ design and construction head Pierre San Diego.

STT GDC Philippines is a joint venture among Globe Telecom Inc., Ayala Corp. and Singapore-based ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC). It operates data centers in Metro Manila, Cavite and Davao.

“This collaboration goes beyond just securing electricity; it fuels a shared vision for a transformative digital future that unlocks innovation and growth across the nation,” San Diego said.

MSERV, one of the largest energy service companies that offer tailor-fit end-to-end energy solutions, is looking to deepen its collaboration with STT GDC Philippines. Alena Mae S. Flores

4.0 percent compared to April 2023, with capacity rising 2.1 percent year-on-year and the load factor improving 82.6 percent.

“Passenger demand has been

ity of 82.6 megawatts and three battery energy storage system (BESS) projects with 40 megawatt-hours of total capacity.

Puno said the new geothermal projects would require P24 billion in investments, while the BESS projects would require P5.3 billion, for a total of P29.3 billion.

The bulk of the funding is coming from the P60 billion that the EDC set aside for its capital expenditure (capex) program last year.

“We completed the 29-MW binary plant–Palayan, and it just started operating right when there’s a need for supply. That’s new capacity that’s coming in,” said Puno, “We continue to invest. Half of the P60-billion capex goes to drilling, the other half goes to new builds. Geothermal is complicated, you have to build new wells and then work over existing wells,” he said.

The P6.7-billion Palayan geothermal plant, one of the seven new power projects of the Lopez-owned firm, is located inside EDC’s BaconManito (BacMan) geothermal facility in Bicol.

Meanwhile, the P2.9-billion, 5.6MW geothermal power plant in Bago City, Negros Occidental is set to commence operations by the third quarter this year.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks rose to end five days of decline on bargain-hunting, while the peso slightly recovered to close at 58.51 against the US dollar Friday.

The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index ended the week at 6,433.10, up 61.35 points, or 0.96 percent from the previous trading, while the wider all-shares index climbed 38.30 points, or 1.12 percent, to finish at 3,463.87. Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said the market rose on last-minute bargain hunting that pushed the index above the 6,400 level.

“Investors seized the opportunity to buy stocks at attractive prices following a five-day decline, resulting in a technical bounce at the 6,400-support level,” Alviar said.

Sectoral indices ended mixed, with services posting the biggest gain of 4.21 percent, followed by industrial with 1.99 percent and property with 1.43 percent. Financials lost 0.73 percent, while holding firms dropped 0.51 percent.

Value turnover surged to P22.22 billion on MSCI quarterly rebalancing. MSCI refers to the Morgan Stanley Capital International index, which is designed to measure the performance of the large and mid-cap segments of the market.

Meanwhile, most Asian markets rose Friday after falling for much of the week, with below-forecast US data injecting some fresh life into hopes the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates this year. With AFP

First Gen Corp. chairman and chief executive Federico Lopez (left) and president and chief operating officer Francis Giles Puno answer questions from the media during the company’s annual stockholders meeting on May 31, 2024 at The Fifth inside the Rockwell Mall in Makati City. Alena Mae S. Flores

EXECUTIVE WELLNESS. Asian Institute of Management president and Dean Dr. Jikyeong Kang (second from left) and Vivant Corp chief executive Arlo Sarmiento (third from left) seal the partnership for an executive wellness program. Dubbed Thriving at the Top 2.0, the program is designed to hone leadership skills and boost executive performance through coaching and mentoring, supported by wellness counseling, fitness training and nutrition. Prof. Alberto Mateo Jr., AIM School of Executive Education and Lifelong Learning head Carmela Franco, Vivant executive vice president and chief corporate officer stand as witnesses.

BUSINESS

Big ticket investments hit P1.1t since enactment of CREATE law

THE Department of Finance said Friday bigticket investments approved under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act reached P1.1 trillion as of April 2024.

These investments also generating over 142,294 new jobs for Filipinos, it said in a Facebook post.

The DOF said the Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB), the agency created by the law, approved 56 applications, representing a total investment capital of P873.9 billion, which is expected to generate 38,304 jobs.

DA, Argentina envoy strengthen agri cooperation

By Othel V. Campos

AGRICULTURE Secretary Francis-

co P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. and Argentina’s Ambassador to Manila Ricardo Luis Bocalandro met to discuss ways to strengthen agricultural cooperation and partnership between the two countries.

Tiu Laurel highlighted the Philippines’ interest in exporting mangoes to Argentina and using Argentine technology and machinery to improve local rice and corn production.

The Argentine envoy assured the agriculture chief that Argentina is ready to help the Philippines improve local agriculture and welcomes more shipments agricultural commodities from the Philippines, including mangoes.

The two officials also discussed trade and market access; technical cooperation projects, particularly on agricultural biotechnology, crop pest management, sugar, farm mechanization and digitalization; foot-andmouth disease vaccines; and sustainable and value-added rice programs and fisheries.

Tiu Laurel thanked the Argentine diplomat for his country’s interest in Philippine agricultural products and its willingness to assist in modernizing local agriculture.

Argentine deputy chief of mission Leandro Waisman and head of the embassy’s economic and commercial section Ana Clara Pianezza accompanied Bocalandro.

Meanwhile, the various investment promotion agencies (IPAs) approved 1,102 applications, with a combined committed investment capital of P263.7 billion. These are anticipated to create an additional 103,990 jobs. Major IPAs include the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, Board of Investments, Clark Development

Corp., Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), Aurora Economic Zone and Freeport Authority (APECO) and Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA).

The DOF earlier said that with the Philippines poised toward economic transformation, the CREATE law continues to play a crucial role in positioning the country as a global investment hub.

“As CREATE establishes a performance-based, time-bound, targeted and transparent tax incentives regime

in the country, incentivized projects or activities under the key structural tax reform are to achieve performance metrics to ensure that the grant of fiscal support to Registered Business Enterprises (RBEs) leads to higher economic returns,” the DOF said.

The CREATE law took effect in April 2021 and reduced the corporate income tax from 30 to 25 percent.

For domestic companies with a taxable income of P5 million and below, and with total assets of not more than P100 million, their corporate income tax was reduced from 30 to 20 percent.

ERC

KICKSTART Ventures, a corporate venture capital (CVC) firm wholly-owned by Globe Telecom Inc., teamed up with the Trade Commissioner Service at the Embassy of Canada to the Philippines to bolster international collaboration and investment opportunities at the inaugural run of “Cross-border Ventures: A Showcase of Canada’s Most Innovative Startups” pitching session.

The firm’s capability to invest, particularly in multi-million-dollar ventures, and its dedication to strategic post-investment support, has solidified its position as a sought-after partner for global partners.

Kickstart Ventures vice president of investments Mike Maté expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting the crucial role of embassies as gateways to global investment opportunities.

Siargao cruise terminal eyed for completion by third quarter

By Darwin G. Amojelar

STATE-RUN Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said Friday it expects to complete the construction of a cruise terminal in Siargao by the third quarter of 2024.

PPA general manager Jay Santiago vowed to develop more cruise terminals near the areas of the tourism sites in Siargao, Camiguin, Boracay, Palawan and Puerto Galera.

“We are currently constructing dedicated cruise terminals. Hopefully, by the third quarter, our Siargao Cruise Terminal will be operational,” Santiago said.

“We are also constructing a cruise terminal in Coron, Palawan, so hopefully by next year that will be finished and we have many more locations to start for cruise destinations, add to that the one in Camiguin that is lined up,” he said.

Among the ports under PPA which cater to cruise vessels are the Ports of Currimao in Ilocos Norte, Salomague in Ilocos Sur, Manila, Bohol and El Nido, Palawan.

PPA recorded more than 80,000 cruise ship passengers visiting the Philippines in 2023.

The state-run port authority reported total revenue of P25.44 billion last year, up 23.89 percent from P20.54 billion in 2024.

approves CENECO power supply deal with First Gen’s geothermal unit

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) issued an interim approval to Central Negros Electric Cooperative Inc. (CENECO) for the implementation of its power supply agreement (PSA) with Lopez-led Energy Development Corp. (EDC).

The move is meant to arrest the increasing electricity rates affecting Negros Occidental province.

The ERC, in a notice of resolution

dated May 29, 2024, gave interim relief for EDC to supply power to CENECO at a rate of P5.5657 per kilowatt hour (kWh).

The regulator said the interim PSA approval is expected to reduce CENECO’s generation rate amid high electricity prices in the province and mitigate its exposure to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), where the electric cooperative is observed to be buying almost 74 percent of its supply.

Kickstart Ventures, Canadian Embassy team up for cross-border innovation TikTok

“This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to forging connections in the global landscape, and we look forward to more possible partnerships with embassies worldwide,” Maté said. Ambassador of Canada to the Philippines David Hartman reaffirmed the embassy’s dedication to fostering mutually beneficial collaborations, highlighting the strong relationship between Kickstart and the Canadian startup community.

“This partnership holds special importance to us and is something that we want to continue to invest in. We see great value in connecting Kickstart with more startups in Canada’s strong and robust innovation community, especially this milestone year, as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of Canada-Philippines diplomatic relations,” Hartman said.

The ERC said the grant of approval imposes obligation on EDC to provide replacement power to CENECO. It also noted that the final generation cost that EDC can charge is still subject to review by the commission.

“If the final approved rate is lower than the provisional rate granted, the EDC is duty-bound to refund to CENECO, and CENECO is also mandated to credit the same in the electric bills of consumers,” the ERC said. EDC is the country’s largest geo-

thermal producer. It owns and operates the 49-megawatt Nasulo geothermal power plant in Valencia, Negros Occidental.

Under the PSA filed with the ERC, EDC will supply baseload power to CENECO for 10 years at a contracted capacity of 20 MW.

The parties said that based on a rate impact analysis, the immediate implementation of the PSA will result to an estimated generation rate reduction of P0.0367 per kWh.

SMALL and medium enterprises (SMEs) are finding new avenues for growth and expansion as the digital landscape continues to reshape the business landscape.

Among these success stories is Casi’s Mushroom Chicharon, a local business specializing in snacks crafted from organic white oyster mushrooms The local enterprise has seized the opportunity to enhance its market reach and visibility with the rise of e-commerce platforms like TikTok Shop, positioning itself for sustainable growth in the digital era.

Casi’s Mushroom Chicharon was founded by Josemartin Casillano during a challenging time, following a

significant medical expense.

Starting as a side project, Casillano’s commitment and hard work led to the rapid growth of his business. Initially employing a small team, the focus was on efficient mushroom cultivation, production, and sales. The nutritional benefits of oyster mushrooms, including being a source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants, attracted a health-conscious customer base.

Casillano launched a TikTok Shop to increase the visibility of his products, recognizing the potential of social media.

TikTok Shop, dedicated to empowering local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), assists busi-

nesses in enhancing their visibility and creating growth opportunities in the digital landscape.

“Selling Casi’s Mushroom Chicharon has become easier because of TikTok Shop. Customers can now see our product. It doesn’t require a large capital, and you don’t need much technical knowledge to join TikTok Shop,” said Casillano.

Casi’s Mushroom Chicharon experienced a significant transformation after teaming up with TikTok Shop. The business leveraged the platform’s dynamic features, including content creation tools and shoppable content options, and saw an unprecedented increase in visibility and consumer engagement.

TRADE FAIR. The Department of Trade and Industry Northern Samar Provincial Office (DTI-NSPO) showcases the region’s rich heritage and entrepreneurial spirit at the first Manggad san Northern Samar: Heritage Month Trade Fair. The event, from May 16 to 19 at Robinsons North Tacloban, Abucay, highlighted the creativity and economic potential of Northern Samar’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Members of the Trade Commissioner Service at the Embassy of Canada to the Philippines and the Kickstart Ventures investment team, along with Ambassador David Hartman (seated left) and Kickstart Ventures president Minette Navarrete (seated right) come together at the ‘Cross-border Ventures: A Showcase of Canada’s Most Innovative Startups’ pitching event. Kickstart Ventures is a corporate venture capital (CVC) firm wholly owned by Globe Telecom Inc.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

UnionBank raises P10b from stock rights offering

By Jenniffer B. Austria

UNION Bank of the Philippines

(UBP) said Friday it raised P10 billion in fresh capital from a stock rights offering (SRO).

UBP said in a stock exchange filing the offering of 327.12 million common shares at P30.57 per share was fully subscribed on robust participation from shareholders.

“The strong response from our shareholders to the Stock Rights Offering underscores their confidence in our strategic objective to become the best retail bank in the country,” said UBP president and chief executive Edwin Bautista.

UBP’s principal shareholders, including Aboitiz Equity Ventures, So-

cial Security System and Insular Life fully subscribed to the offering. UBP will used the proceeds to support its strategic growth initiatives. The rights shares were made available to eligible shareholders, at a ratio of 1 rights share for every 9.1382 common shares held as of May 9, 2024. The new rights shares were listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange on May 31, 2024. Following the issuance, UBP’s total outstanding shares increased from 2,989,287,495 to 3,316,377,607 common shares. CLSA Exchange Capital Inc., and Unicapital Inc. served as joint underwriters for the offering, while Citigroup Global Markets Limited acted as capital markets adviser.

Bank lending increased 9.6% in April

By Darwin G. Amojelar

BANK loans grew faster in April on improving demand from companies, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Friday.

The BSP said outstanding loans of universal and commercial banks (U/ KBs), net of reverse repurchase (RRP) placements, expanded by 9.6 percent year-on-year in April. This was faster than the 9.4-percent growth registered in March.

“On a month-on-month seasonallyadjusted basis, outstanding universal and commercial bank loans, net of

RRPs, increased by 0.9 percent,” the BSP said.

Data show that outstanding loans to residents, net of RRPs, rose 9.6 percent in April, from 9.5 percent in March, while outstanding loans to non-residents went up by 10.8 percent in April, also faster than 9.1 percent in the previous month.

Outstanding loans for production

activities expanded by 7.8 percent in April, faster than 7.7 percent in March, driven by the rise in lending to key industries.

These include real estate activities where loans went up 11.0 percent; electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply (9.2 percent); wholesale and retail trade, and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles (7.6 percent); transportation and storage (21.8 percent); and construction (15.1 percent).

Consumer loans to residents grew 25.3 percent in April, slightly slower than the 25.4-percent growth in March. The BSP noted the sustained

increase in credit card, motor vehicle and salary-based general purpose consumption loans.

“Looking ahead, the BSP will ensure that domestic liquidity and credit conditions remain in line with its price and financial stability objectives,” the BSP said.

Meanwhile, domestic liquidity (M3) or money supply grew by 5.6 percent year-on-year to P17.2 trillion in April 2024, slightly slower than the 5.7-percent increase seen in March.

“On a month-on-month seasonallyadjusted basis, M3 increased by about 0.5 percent,” the BSP said.

GOVERNMENT Service Insurance

System (GSIS) takes another leap in its digital transformation as it launched the GSIS Digital ID, coinciding with its 87th anniversary with the theme, “GSIS @87: Kabalikat sa Bagong Pilipinas”.

The enhancement marks a significant step in its efforts to automate processes, streamline services and amplify the customer service experience for its members and pensioners.

“The GSIS continuously strives to stay ahead and make it safer and more convenient for government workers to transact. We are not just launching a digital ID --- this signals a new era where our members and pensioners can fully access our services easily through their smartphones,” said GSIS president and general-manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso.

GSIS said that as of December 2023,

97 percent of its loan transactions were processed electronically through kiosks and the GSIS Touch mobile app, with only 3 percent handled over-thecounter.

The shift in digitization demonstrates the GSIS’s commitment to enhance convenience, reliability, and accessibility for its members, pensioners and stakeholders, it said.

About 42 percent of organizations around the globe are actively integrating digital ID technologies in their systems, and 31 percent are in the early stages of implementation.

“The launch of the GSIS Digital ID aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas Strategy of the administration, with the GSIS as a key partner in implementing robust measures to develop innovative solutions, driving progress and sustainable development for our country,” said Veloso.

Igloo, Smart team up for phone protection

INSURANCE technology company

Igloo teamed up with Smart Communications Inc. to launch phone protection plans for growing 55 million subscribers.

The partnership not only furthers Smart’s commitment to enhancing customer experience but also highlights Igloo’s mission to provide avenues to device protection for Filipinos.

SSS adopting flexible work arrangement in Quezon City, Makati offices

THE Social Security System (SSS) said Friday all its branch offices nationwide will remain open and operate on regular business hours to accommodate its members, pensioners and claimants as it implements a flexible work arrangement on June 3, 2024 to help mitigate traffic congestion especially in Metro Manila.

SSS president and chief executive Rolando Ledesma Macasaet said that under the flexible work arrangement,

GSIS launches digital ID to automate processes as it marks 87th anniversary Alternergy

the SSS headquarters in Quezon City and its corporate office in Makati would have a one-day work from home and four-day work in office schedule, while all SSS branch offices nationwide including SSS Diliman Branch would continue to be opened daily.

Macasaet said the employees reporting in the SSS main office in Quezon City would be working from home on Mondays and in the office from Tuesdays to Fridays.

“Meanwhile, SSS employees reporting in our corporate office in Makati will be working in the office every Mondays to Thursdays and will be working from home on Fridays,” Macasaet said.

Macasaet said the business operations of 254 SSS branch offices nationwide would not be hampered by the modified work schedule.

“We want to notify everyone that SSS branch offices nationwide including our SSS Diliman Branch

RENEWABLE power producer Alternergy Holdings Corp. thanked the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for its support in securing the company’s first green corporate loan.

“ADB’s technical assistance in crafting Alternergy’s green finance framework opened new opportunities for our capital raising activities. It will boost confidence among sustainability focused investors to support Alternergy’s growth as a pure-play renewable energy company,” said Alternergy chairman Vicente Pérez.

“We successfully concluded our first green corporate loan this week. This was made possible by ADB’s support to debt issuers in tapping the growing market focused on sustainability investments,” Alternergy president Gerry Magbanua said.

in Quezon City will continue to be open every day and they will follow their normal operations, ensuring the seamless delivery of services to our members, pensioners and their beneficiaries,” Macasaet said.

SSS executive vice president Voltaire Agas said all branch offices would be open from 8 a.m. until 5.m. from Monday to Friday, while selected SSS offices in the malls would start their operations from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m., from Monday to Saturday.

The company said that with ADB’s technical support, it has developed a green finance framework which articulates Alternergy’s governance and reporting systems and ensure strict adherence to the principles, guidelines and standards on green finance instruments.

“This transaction demonstrates our commitment to mobilizing green finance for sustainable development in the Philippines,” said ADB economic research and development impact department advisor Satoru Yamadera.

“Renewable energy developers like Alternergy can play a critical role in replacing carbon-intensive energy sources, which would significantly reduce global warming emissions and simultaneously provide employment and education to the host communities of its projects,” Yamadera said.

“In the Philippines, 84.4 percentof the population own smartphones, and individuals spend nearly four hours daily on social media, well above the global average of two and a half hours. As a highly connected and social nation, the importance of these devices for communication, productivity, and entertainment is undeniable,” said Roberto Vea, commercial lead at Igloo Philippines.

“Recognizing the essential role of these devices and the need to safeguard them, Igloo has partnered with Smart to introduce phone protection plans, providing our customers with peace of mind,” he said.

PNOC highlights new mandate

THE Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) participated in the 2024 ASCOPE 8th Mid-Year Task Force Meeting held in Bali, Indonesia from May 27 to 30, 2024. Hosted by Pertamina, the event focused on enhancing ASEAN energy connectivity and resilience amidst the evolving global energy landscape. PNOC president and chief executive Oliver Butalid highlighted the company’s new strategic mandate to transition from asset management to playing a pivotal role in strategic niches with government support.

“We are repositioning PNOC to accelerate the development of critical infrastructure, particularly in offshore wind energy integration and LNG distribution,” Butalid said.

Butalid also outlined PNOC’s commitment to developing offshore wind infrastructure, noting that the Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded service contracts for 80 GW of offshore wind capacity involving 40 international players. “PNOC is spearheading the development of these ports, which are integral to our renewable energy goals,” he said.

Eurozone inflation rose to 2.6% in May

BRUSSELS—The eurozone’s annual rate of inflation rose faster than expected in May, official data showed Friday, but the European Central Bank is still seen cutting interest rates next week. Consumer prices in the single currency area rose 2.6 percent in May from a year earlier, up from April’s

TECH LG OLED TVs illuminate artistic legacy at National Museum of Fine Arts

LG ELECTRONICS,

a global leader in technology and innovation, proudly announces its partnership with the National Museum of the Philippines, furthering its commitment to supporting cultural heritage and promoting the arts.

The announcement was made during a special event held at the National Museum of Fine Arts, where Nakhyun Seong, Managing Director of LG Philippines, expressed LG’s pride in being part of significant celebrations aligned with the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage.

“At LG, supporting the arts and culture is an integral part of what we do,” said Seong. “We are honored to collaborate with the National Museum of Fine Arts for the 140th anniversary of the masterpiece ‘Spoliarium’ by Juan Luna. Through our donation this National Heritage Month, we hope that more people will be able to enjoy the enhanced interactive experience and offer visitors a deeper understanding and appreciation of Luna’s significant work and its historical context.” LG’s commitment to the National Museum extends beyond this donation, as highlighted by Seong: “The installation of LG OLED AI TVs illuminates the artistic legacy of the National Museum of Fine Arts. The partnership between LG and the museum signifies a synergy between cutting-edge technology and timeless artistry. LG is committed to the National Museum of the Philippines and its causes in the arts, aiming to foster greater appreciation and accessibility to cultural heritage.”

During the event, Director-General Jeremy Barns of the National Museum also addressed the audience, acknowl-

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edging the importance of modernizing cultural institutions for today’s generation: “It’s a challenge for the National Museum today to make museums accessible to the modern generation. The addition of LG OLED AI TVs will greatly enhance our ability to engage visitors and provide them with enriching experiences.” Yongwoo Park, LG Product Director for Home Entertainment, provided insights into LG’s latest advancements in home entertainment during the event. “It’s a privilege for our TVs to be an integral part of your lives,” said Park. “Our Home Entertainment vision - ‘Sync to You, Open to All’ - is guiding how our TVs are becoming windows onto different experiences. With your partnership, we’re continuing our OLED leadership, now in our 11th year. It is our commitment to continue to break new grounds, to push the boundaries of entertainment.”

realme

Angelica Dumlao, Product Manager for TV, detailed the features of the LG OLED AI TV 2024 lineup, emphasizing the role of AI technology in enhancing the viewing experience. “The Alpha11 AI Processor offers four times the performance of its predecessor, allowing LG OLED AI TVs to recognize users and personalize experiences according to their preferences. The event also showcased LG’s QNED TVs, known for their vibrant colors and exceptional brightness, as well as LG Soundbars essential for elevating the surround sound experience.”

LG enthusiasts and avid users also shared their experiences with LG OLED AI TVs. TV host and cinephile Gretchen Ho expressed her admiration for the LG OLED AI B4: “As a cinephile, having LG OLED AI B4 is like having a cinema experience right in your home. Whenever I see my documentaries and movies on the

screen, the colors are so vibrant and the details are so clear, it feels like I’m still immersed in my travels. And it’s not just about the movies – even regular TV shows and streaming content look amazing. The deep blacks and vibrant colors really make everything pop. LG OLED AI B4 truly brings out the best in every film and video, making it perfect for both movie nights and everyday viewing.”

Drew Arellano, a devoted family man and renowned TV personality, offered heartfelt insights into LG OLED AI TVs, reflecting on their transformative impact on his family’s entertainment.

“For me, as a family man, LG OLED AI TVs are more than just cutting-edge technology; they’re a gateway to unforgettable moments shared with loved ones. Drew marveled at LG’s technology, expressing admiration for features like Al Picture Pro, which imbues every frame with authentic realism. With Al Sound Pro, every detail of the soundscape resonates with lifelike clarity, creating an immersive audio experience. OLED G4, powered by the new Alpha11 AI Processor, provides you with the ultimate home theater viewing experience. Combined with Brightness Booster Max, peak highlights reach a new high, which is 150% brighter than conventional OLEDs.”

CEO Sky Li featured on Forbes’ cover, announces comeback of GT Series

SKY LI, the Founder and CEO of realme, graced the cover of Forbes and shared that the leading smartphone brand is set to disrupt the high-end market with its comeback of the GT series. After a two-year hiatus, realme is armed with the conviction to excel in flagship products.

GT is Back with Ambition

In the Forbes interview, Sky expressed strong assurance in making a remarkable achievement in the highend market. He reiterated the brand’s deep understanding of the young consumers, asserting that the upcoming realme GT 6 would exceed anticipated performance benchmarks.

The comeback of the GT series is driven by the widespread global demand among realme users, emphasizing the tech company’s commitment to meeting user expectations.

realme demonstrates fearless competitive spirit amidst the diverse array of flagship smartphones available in the market. The brand is not only leveraging its existing advantages in performance, but also sets its sights on substantial progress in the AI

scene. Furthermore, with the consistent impressive results delivered by realme’s number series, it is believed that the return of the GT series will resonate with young users.

New Flagship Killer

The realme GT 5G marked the inception of the GT Series and premiered in India on August 18, 2021. It earned the prestigious title “Flagship Killer 2021” from acclaimed media sources.

The long-waited GT 6 is positioned to surpass its predecessors by a large

margin, bringing fresh vitality into a stagnant market. The GT Series, equipped with a set of cutting-edge technologies, is primed to shatter performance barriers across the board. Additionally, the new products of realme GT Series will be a perfect blend of state-of-the-art AI experience and advanced technology, positioned as the “New Flagship Killer Powered by AI”. realme will be the AI Popularizer AI is deemed to shake up the mo-

bile phone industry and reshape the tech landscape. The emergence of the AIGC era promises to drive market expansion, ushering AI-enabled smartphones into a new phase of growth.

“The competition in the industry will shift from hardware alone to a combination of hardware, software, and overall technological capability. AI is becoming the next hotly contested spot, AI imaging, voice and interaction will be the three major trends on the future development of AI,” says Sky Li, in an insightful conversation with Forbes.

In the midst of the era, realme is seizing opportunities to invest in AI innovation and positioning itself as an AI popularizer. With the brand’s latest release, realme will be among the brands worldwide to pioneer and fully integrate cutting-edge AI technology into smartphones, prioritizing enhancements in imaging and daily efficiency tasks. realme remains steadfast in its promise to a user-centric approach, empowering young consumers with accessible AI solutions. In the future, the entire realme brand will be guided by the objective to address the holistic needs of the young generation, creating distinct AI functionalities tailored to their preferences and lifestyle.

To learn more about realme’s latest updates, visit the realme official website and follow realme on Facebook.

Maximizing retail media adtech for creative collaborations

AS the media landscape evolves, marketers need to become more creative in their strategy to capture customers’ attention.

Brands are now partnering with streaming services, digital platforms, and media agencies to engage potential customers where they are browsing or shopping.

Collaborative partnerships within these networks, such as foodpanda’s panda ads, offer innovative solutions that align closely with consumer behaviors. It involves placing ads on a retailer’s website or app, like foodpanda, to increase brand visibility and sales for partner merchants as well as external brand partners.

“This adaptability and direct access to engaged shoppers make retail media an invaluable asset in a modern marketer’s toolkit, pushing brands to transition from conventional advertising to more dynamic, integrated strategies,” said Amer Bakshi, foodpanda Philippines Enterprise Director.

“For foodpanda, brands can enter collaborative partnerships across our verticals from food delivery and pick-up to grocery deliveries. We provide them with solutions within our in-app and off-app chan-

nels, allowing panda ads to engage with digital-native customers who want greater choice and accessibility, convenience, and a personalized experience.”

A refreshing collab Insider Intelligence forecasts that retail media will be the fastest-growing advertising channel

across media through 2027, with annual growth rates exceeding 20%. “As retail media continues to grow, there are even more reasons for brands to utilize it. Partnerships can be creative and take many forms to effectively achieve goals and drive growth to their business.” For instance, among The Coca-Cola Company’s numerous partnerships in the Philippines, the collaboration with foodpanda has been particularly effective in boosting the brand’s reach, transactions, and sales both online and offline. A specially

Shown here are (from left) National Museum Deputy Director-General for Museums; Jorell M. Legaspi; Deputy Director-General for Administration Atty. Ma. Rosenne Flores-Avila; National Museum of the Philippines DirectorGeneral Jeremy Barns, CESO III; Sportscaster Mikee Reyes; Gamer Bianca Yao; Host Gretchen Ho; LG Philippines Managing Director Nakhyun Seong; LG Philippines Product Director for Home Entertainment, Yongwoo Park; LG Philippines Product Manager for TV Angelica Dumlao; and TV Personality Drew Arellano.

Ms. Bianca Yao, aka Biancake, with the LG OLED AI C4

Sky Li shared news about the upcoming realme GT 6 in a recent interview with Forbes

foodpanda’s panda ads o er innovative solutions that align closely with consumer behaviors.

LVMH redefines luxury retail experience with extended pact with Alibaba

LVMH Group, the world leader in high-quality products, and Alibaba Group, the leading e-commerce and technology company in China, announced an extended partnership to push further the boundary of luxury experience in China, leveraging Alibaba’s cloud technologies, through AI-powered innovations in retail and on-line with Tmall.

The deepened partnership is a strong commitment to the shared dedication of the two companies to pioneering retail innovation and delivering exceptional, tech-driven luxury experiences, that will enable LVMH to increase its Omnichannel, Data, and Tech presence in China.

Stephane Bianchi, Group Managing Director of LVMH, said: “Alibaba is already a key partner for our Maisons and for the Group. The reinforcement of our partnership will help us to further accelerate our omni-channel business growth, and to keep on leveraging the transformative capabilities of cloud and AI technologies, along with Alibaba’s world-leading expertise in ecommerce operations. Our forward-looking collaboration will deliver unparalleled experiences to our clients throughout their highend shopping journey.”

Eddie Wu, Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Group, added: “Alibaba is pleased to enable a transformation of the high-end consumption experience with retail leaders like LVMH through our world-class technologies in cloud computing and AI. This comprehensive partnership has elevated the retail experience for LVMH’s customers worldwide, including China-based consumers on Tmall. We look forward to continuing to build on the strong partnership and innovation journey with LVMH.”

In its pursuit of relentless innovation, LVMH has begun integrating Alibaba Cloud’s generative AI capabilities, including Qwen, Alibaba’s proprietary large language model, and Model Studio (Bailian), a comprehensive AI model building platform. This integration has paved the way for the creation of novel applications and services that underscore the luxury Maison’s commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation, harnessing cutting-edge technology to elevate its luxury offerings for global consumers, and fostering innovation-led growth within its global retail businesses. With more than 30 Maisons and Divisions within mainland China and Southeast Asia (including Sephora APAC and DFS), this extension plan of the cooperation for another five years reflects a strong and shared commitment to explore new markets, products, and technological frontiers. Moving forward, LVMH will get access to a broader array of Alibaba Cloud’s leading technologies and proven products to further optimize its business operations, enhance customer insights, and streamline its supply chain management processes to address Chinese market.

Get OPPO’s strongest smartphone yet—OPPO A60, starting

LEADING global device brand OPPO introduces its strongest smartphone yet, the OPPO A60, hitting all OPPO stores nationwide on June 7.

Those eager to avail the new OPPO A Series device can get their hands on the OPPO A60 even earlier, as the 8+128GB variant will be exclusively available on Lazada starting May 30.

Certified with U.S. Military-Grade Shock Resistance, the OPPO A60 is built to withstand accidental slips, falls, and other daily mishaps. Tested against harsh conditions, heavy vibrations, bumpy roads, and falls from 1.22 meters, this phone is perfect for budget-conscious users seeking durability and reliability in keeping up with their daily grind.

With an IP54 rating, the OPPO A60 is also protected against accidental splashes. Its innovative Splash Touch feature ensures touch accuracy even when your fingers are wet.

Whether caught in a sudden downpour, just finishing up in the kitchen, or coming from the bathroom, your phone remains responsive and ready.

The OPPO A60 display is packed with 950 nits brightness that can give a clear view of the screen despite harsh sunlight outdoors.

The OPPO A60 is equipped with a 50MP Ultra-Clear Dual Camera, 45W SUPERVOOC™ Flash Charge, and a 5,000mAh battery, ensuring you stay connected and productive without missing a beat. Available in Ripple Blue and Midnight Purple, the A60 combines style with strength, making it an ideal everyday partner for Filipinos.

Whether you’re a busy student juggling classes, assignments, and social activities, or an on-the-go professional balancing daily field work, deadlines, and personal errands, the OPPO A60 is designed to be your reliable companion in any situation. With its robust features, including a powerful battery that lasts all day, fast charging capabilities to keep you connected without interruption, and durable construction to withstand everyday wear and tear,

the OPPO A60 ensures you stay productive and entertained no matter where life takes you. Plus, its sleek design and advanced camera technology make it perfect for capturing and sharing those spontaneous moments that make your day special. Conquer everyday challenges with the OPPO A60, available in two variants. Grab the 8GB+128GB model for just P9,999, or go for the 8GB+256GB variant for only P11,999.

The OPPO A60 is designed to be your reliable companion in any situation.

Don’t miss out on this amazing deal: purchase the OPPO A60 8+128GB variant exclusively on Lazada starting May 30, while OPPO A60 8+256GB starting June 5 and receive a free bluetooth speaker alongside free shipping vouchers and more. Offer is available until June 14 only. For more information, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph or follow OPPO Philippines on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok

Google launches AI Essentials’ skilling program to support PH in building AI-ready workforce

Shown here are (from left) Google Philippines, Vietnam and South Asia Frontier Markets Country Marketing Manager Gabby Roxas, Department of Trade & Industry Regional Operations Group and E-Commerce Lead Undersecretary and Career Executive Service O cer II Mary

It’s raining savings this June with big markdowns for POCO

IT’S the middle of the year once more, which means it’s time for the much-awaited 6.6 sale — and POCO is joining the festivities with major discounts on some of its most popular devices. The biggest cut among POCO devices is the POCO X6 5G, POCO C65, and POCO M6 PRO, which will be getting huge discounts of up to P3,000 off during the 6.6 sale period starting June 5, 8 PM till June 10, 2024

The POCO X6 Pro 5G, the brand’s 5G-ready device, will have its 12GB+512GB variant available for P15,240, down from its original price of P16,999. The POCO X6 Pro 5G is powered by a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip for maximum performance at a midrange price, a 64MP triple camera setup, and 67W turbocharging to quickly top up a 5100mAh battery. Meanwhile, the POCO M6 Pro 12GB+512GB will be marked down to P10,999 from P13,999, while the

8GB+256GB will be available for P8,999, down from P11,999. It doesn’t limit your play with a powerful Helio G99-Ultra processor that allows for high efficiency and delivers games, video, and other content on a dazzling 6.67” Flow AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth and seamless visuals. For those looking for an affordable budget option, the POCO C65 6GB+128GB is slashed by P900 to P4,599, while the 8GB+256GB is down to P5,599 from P6,499 during 6.6. The entry-level smartphone has a reliable MediaTek Helio G85 chip, supported by a 5000mAh battery that allows for efficient all-day use.

AI presents a transformative opportunity for the Philippines to address economic challenges by boosting productivity and unlocking human potential. A study by Access Partnership forecasts that Philippine businesses could reap PHP 2.8 trillion (USD 50.7 billion) in economic benefits in 2030 through the adoption of AI-powered products and solutions.

Realizing this potential requires a multi-faceted approach which includes promoting innovative yet responsible AI adoption across industries, fostering a supportive regulatory environment, investing in AI infrastructure, and upskilling the workforce.

This is why as part of its ongoing commitment to help build a Digital Philippines towards an AI-ready economy, Google announced today the availability of Google AI Essentials course on Coursera to equip Filipinos with AI skills.

Google AI Essentials is a self-paced online course taught by AI experts at Google. This course requires no previous experience with AI, and is designed to help people across roles and industries get essential AI skills

to boost productivity. In less than 10 hours, learners will gain hands-on experience with a variety of AI tools to brainstorm ideas and speed up daily work tasks, including:

● Develop ideas and content: Use AI to help brainstorm and generate ideas and then turn that idea into a presentation outline to sell it through.

● Make more informed decisions: Use AI to help research locations and organize information so you can pick the best spot based on a set criteria.

● Speed up daily work tasks: Use AI to help draft email responses so you can quickly clear out that inbox.

● Write effective prompts: Create clear and specific prompts and learn prompting techniques to get the output you want.

● Use AI responsibly to mitigate unfair biases and inaccuracies. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a Google-issued skill badge to showcase their newly acquired AI proficiency to potential employers and colleagues.

Collaborating with local partners to effectively distribute Google AI Essentials scholarships

SHOWBIZ

By Nickie Wang

FRESH from the Jinseo Arigato International Film Festival, Cathy Camarillo ’s Chances Are, You and I had a successful red carpet premiere at SM Cinemas on Tuesday. The event was attended by the entire cast, led by Kelvin Miranda and Kira Balinger , who were overwhelmingly supported by their celebrity friends, helping to promote the movie during the premiere night.

‘Chances Are, You and I’:

A romantic tale of hope and connection

Chances Are, You and I is a romantic drama that centers on the lives of two young individuals, Sol (Kelvin) and Gabi (Kira), who meet under unusual circumstances in a hospital. The film beautifully captures the essence of human connection, hope, and the unpredictability of life.

Gabi is portrayed as a bubbly and optimistic person who decorates her hospital room with sticky notes filled with joyful memories and experiences. In contrast, Sol is a stubborn, somewhat brooding character who relies on the flip of a coin to make decisions, rejecting medication as a display of defiance against his illness.

Their paths cross in the hospital, and they soon discover they share the same sickness, leading them to form a unique bond.

The film then takes the audience on a journey to Korea, where Sol reunites with his estranged father, and Gabi confronts her mother, only to walk away upon seeing her.

This trip serves as a crucial moment for both characters, allowing them to open up about their dreams—Sol’s aspiration to become a pilot and Gabi’s desire to be a doctor— despite the uncertainty of their future.

Back in the Philippines, the story takes a

AS PART of its proactive preparations for the midterm elections, GMA Integrated News, in collaboration with Regional TV and Synergy, brought together the network’s multimedia journalists for “GMA Masterclass: Road to the 2025 Elections” on May 25 at Studio 5, GMA Network Center. Among the participants were anchors, reporters, video journalists, program managers, station managers, and writers from GMA News Manila, GMA Regional TV, GMA News Online, Super Radyo DZBB, and RGMA.

Providing relevant and useful information about the midterm national and local elections were COMELEC Chairperson Attorney George Erwin Garcia, University of the Philippines Diliman Journalism Professor Dr. Rachel Khan GMA Legal Affairs Department Assistant Vice President for Litigation & Special Projects Attorney Jose Vener Ibarra, NMI Information Security and Data Privacy Assistant Vice President Rodel Arenas, and GMA Integrated News Social Media Manager Audrey Mae Domasian Attorney Garcia provided an overview of the 2025 midterm elections and discussed voter education. Some participants also got to try the automated vote counting machine and the touch-screen voting machine which will be used by registered overseas Filipino voters in territories that do not allow internet voting.

Dr. Khan, meanwhile, highlighted the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on politics and how media practitioners can adopt A.I. tools for election coverage. Attorney Ibarra discussed election laws governing media. Lastly, Arenas and Domasian explained how to detect deepfakes and online disinformation, and shared tools for AI detection.

GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Senior Vice President and Head Oliver Victor B. Amoroso underscored the importance of the said Masterclass.

“This is certainly not our first election coverage, but to a degree, we are marching

dramatic turn as Gabi prepares for her brain surgery. Sol is worried about Gabi forgetting him after her surgery. In a touching scene, Gabi reassures Sol, hinting at their potential future together if they survive and recover:

“Chances are you and I together, every single day.”

But Gabi meets with an accident and undergoes her surgery earlier than scheduled, resulting in memory loss. In his grief, Sol removes all the sticky notes with memories of him from Gabi’s room and gives them to his best friend for disposal. Unbeknownst to Sol, his best friend returns these notes to Gabi.

The film concludes on a hopeful note four years later when Sol and Gabi meet at their usual hangout spot. In a touching moment, Sol flips his coin and kisses Gabi, suggesting that some connections are meant to withstand the trials of time and memory.

Chances Are, You and I is a beautifully crafted film that showcases the power of love and human connection. Kelvin Miranda and Kira Balinger’s performances are powerful and sincere, making their characters’ struggles and victories feel so real. The story is full of emotions and it reminds us of the

brief but valuable moments that shape our lives and relationships.

Chances Are, You and I was written by Ellis Catrina and also stars Carlos, Anne Feo, Gian Magdangal, Al Tanday

showing more

Produced by Pocket Media

FILM and television actor Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. expressed his delight over the ratification of Republic Act No. 11996, also known as the Eddie Garcia Law. This new legislation aims to protect the welfare of workers in the movie and television industry.

“At last, this bill I proposed and pushed for the welfare of our coworkers in the film and television industry is now a law. I’m thankful to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for enacting this law. I’m overjoyed because we fought long and hard for the passage of this measure.

This is a victory for our workers and the industry,” Revilla, who authored the bill said.

“I’ve been saying this since then – ‘I was born into this business where I learned

Senator Revilla lauds Eddie Garcia Law approval

the ropes. I owe my present status to this industry, its workers, and the viewing public. This is one way of me giving back,” Revilla added.

“Manoy Eddie’s death was a national tragedy but it paved the way for awareness and concern to protect the actors and workers in the industry,” Revilla reiterated.

The Eddie Garcia Law assures that film and TV workers will be given protection by employers in their workplace.

The Law also states that the employer will abide by the number of working hours, ample compensation, benefits, like social security, basic necessities, health, safety, working conditions, standards, and insurance for the industry workers.

“Tito Eddie, this is for you in the industry. Thanks for inspiring us to fight for this. the

and our friends and family

This is just the beginning of the uplift of our fellow industry workers, ” Revilla concluded.

Tanday

JinHo Bae, Tart and

Senator Bong Revilla Jr.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

EVERY year, LGBTQIA+ communities around the world come together for pride runs and marches. These events are more than just celebrations, they are powerful statements of unity, visibility, and progress.

This June, SM Supermalls is collaborating with RunRio to mount the first “Pride Run” happening at SM by the Bay, SM MOA Complex. As the name of the event suggests, it combines the athleticism of a fun run with the vibrant energy of a pride march. Pride runs are celebrations of LGBTQIA+ identities. They create a space for people to express themselves freely, feel proud of who they are, and connect with a supportive community. At the SM Pride Run, according to RunRio President and CEO Rio de la Cruz, participants will be surrounded by thousands who share their values and experiences.

By Angelica Villanueva

DESI Matters Productions, an Indianowned entertainment company, recently marked its 10th year with a lively and festive celebration called Baisakhi Fest 2024

Held at the Hilton Manila Ballroom, the special event brought together Indian expats, local businesses, and friends for an evening filled with music, dance, and festivities.

During an interview with its founder and CEO, Rav Singh, the company began as a small company catering to the Filipino-Indian community.

“Desi Matters Productions started as a small entertainment company that caters to the Indian community here in the Philippines. I’m a DJ and I was able to start my small entertainment company, which was lacking in the Philippines. There were no Indian performers or Indianbased production,” Singh

Lace up and run with pride

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

“This run is revolutionary since we haven’t done something of this magnitude before. At the height of the pandemic, we organized a virtual pride run and were thrilled with the results. Now that everything is back to normal, we are partnering with SM Malls and Bingo Plus for this opportunity,” De La Cruz said during the event launch held at SM Megamall.

“We’re happy that companies are reaching out and wanting to get involved in this event. Even though the event hasn’t happened yet, I’m already thanking our partners because I believe this is going to be a successful event. Additionally, our advocacy partner Love Yourself PH, their presence adds value and meaning to this run. So, let’s all run with love and pride for a tolerant and accepting Philippines,” De La Cruz continued.

Pride runs are also powerful tools for visibility and advocacy according to Love Yourself PH Executive Director Ronivin Pagtakhan. He said that they remind society that the LGBTQIA+ community exists and deserves equal rights and acceptance and by participating, people are taking a stand for inclusivity and making a statement of solidarity.

The SM Pride Run promises to be an unforgettable experience. It’s not just about competition; it’s a vibrant festival filled with music, entertainment, and a whole lot of fun. Imagine rainbow confetti showers, energetic drummers, and even a Best in Costume contest.

The SM Pride Run welcomes everyone –LGBTQIA+ individuals, their families, allies, casual runners, and seasoned athletes. There

Desi Matters marks a decade of cultural exchange, entertainment excellence

Recognizing the lack of Indian entertainment options, Singh embarked on a mission to bridge this cultural gap.

“No Indian events were happening in the Philippines. We were minorities in the Philippines but we wanted to show who we are to Filipinos, we wanted to have that cultural exchange on food and performances. That was the main vision and then slowly, we grew and then we did events. We brought a lot of our Indian partners,” he added.

From these humble beginnings, Desi Matters Productions has grown into a multifaceted entertainment company with two subsidiary arms— Desi Matters Studio and DMS Prime. The Studio specializes in capturing life’s moments through media said.

Runners will be given freebies like a Pride Run singlet, a race bib, and a timing chip

are 3K, 5K, and 10K distances, so you can participate regardless of your fitness level. There’s even a virtual run option for those who can’t make it to the venue.

Each runner will receive a Pride Run singlet, a race bib, and a timing chip. There are finisher’s medals specially designed for this maiden event.

“SM is dedicated to creating safe spaces for everyone. We believe in promoting inclusivity and acceptance, and this event is a fantastic way to do just that,” SM Supermalls SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin.

The evening’s awarding ceremony will feature top-notch entertainment from queer artists and drag queens, making it a guaranteed party. Various organizations support the SM Pride Run, including DigiPlus Interactive Corp., LoveYourselfPH, Pantay Inc., and the Metro Manila Pride Organization. These partnerships ensure that the event promotes inclusivity and fosters accessible healthcare and support for different communities.

To sign up, visit this link: https://bit.ly/runriopriderun2024

For more information about SM Supermalls and their upcoming events, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow them on social media (@SMSupermalls).

production, on the other hand, DMS Prime focuses on corporate events, marketing, promotions, and content creation.

“We organize Indian concerts, we bring in artists from India, and then from there, we opened Desi Matters and offer our services for different events like Indian weddings, and birthdays,” shared Singh.

When asked about the impact of having a company that brings the spotlight to the India-Philippines community, Singh said that compared to 10 years ago, “it’s getting better”.

“For example, when we look back 10 years ago, no one was eating Indian food, it’s different now. And you know, how Indians were looked upon a few years ago. But right now, we’ve managed— not just our company—but it was a joint effort of our whole community, and our respective governments are pushing it. So, it was a joint effort. We want to showcase that Indian culture is vibrant and colorful,” he continued.

Desi Matters Productions actively promotes cultural exchange. Their short film, As The Moth Flies, directed by Gayle Oblea, was nominated at the 2023 Brussels Short Film Festival. They also plan a fashion event featuring Filipino designers creating Indian-inspired collections. Singh then shared his ambitious plans for the future.

“We want to get into Philippine cinema as well. For now, we want to focus on DMS Prime. We want to cater to different corporate companies whether for their marketing [and] solutions. Of course, Philippine cinema is our goal. Maybe we will produce a film in a year,” he stated. Baisakhi Fest 2024 was organized and presented by Beyond Logistics Events. The event also served as a 30th-anniversary celebration for Shroff Travel, one of the sponsors. Other sponsors included PAGCOR, PRA Philippines, Retirement Authority FICWSI, Swaadisht Manila, Rich Royal Indian Curry House, Flavours, HME Happy Manila Entertainment, MK Productions, Indian Cultural Association of the Philippines, Punjab Indian Grocery, Punjab Appliances Store, The Furr Project Animal Hospital, Ambica, Hilton Manila, Lulu Money, and Beyond Logistics Events.

Apart from being the chief executive of the entertainment firm, Singh is also a DJ

Desi Matters Productions founder and CEO Rav Singh during the Baisakhi Fest 2024

Desi Matters Productions aims to promote the Indian culture and foster the India-Philippines community

Pride runs and marches are some of the efforts made by LGBTQIA+ communities in celebration of their identities every year

Finishers of the upcoming Pride Run will be given vibrant medals bearing colors of the pride flag

From left: Pantay Chairperson Thysz Estrada, LoveYourselfPH Executive Director Ronivin Pagtakhan, RunRio President and CEO Rio de la Cruz, SM Supermalls SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin, BingoPlus Foundation Executive Director Angela Camins Wieneke, and Metro Manila Pride Organization Community Engagement and Management Co-Lead Ashley Jaye Milag