Manila Standard - 2024 June 8 - Saturday

SPEAKER LEADS BIGGEST BAGONG PILIPINAS SERVICE FAIR IN DAVAO NORTE

China boats harass PH research, media team

Marine scientists looking into Escoda coral damage

By Vince Lopez

PERSONNEL and sea assets from Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) were harassed by the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) during their mission at Escoda Shoal last Tuesday, authorities reported Friday.

On the morning of Tuesday, June 4, rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) from the BRP Teresa Magbanua were sent carrying PCG personnel, members from the media and marine scientists from the University of the PhilippinesMarine Science Institute (UP-MSI) to assess the coral health at Escoda Shoal.

The mission of the Marine scientists and PCG were conducted following the reports of crushed corals allegedly being dumped by China in the water. Shortly after their departure, several Chinese boats began tailing the Filipino boats.

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court (SC) on Friday vowed to probe allegations that some individuals behind Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO)

BUREAU of Internal Revenue (BIR)

Romeo Lumagui, Jr. announced on Friday they have formally opened an investigation into possible tax evasion charges against Bamban, Tarlac

By Maricel V. Cruz

A TOTAL of 250,000 Davao del Norte beneficiaries benefitted from over P913 million worth of government services, as well as cash, education, and livelihood assistance, in the largest ever Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) of the Marcos administration held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte Friday until this Saturday.

Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, who led a historic delegation of 168 members of the House of Representatives in the Davao del Norte BPSF, expressed gratitude to all the local hosts, organizers and local government officials who made the Serbisyo Caravan a resounding success.

“We are very happy with the number of people served by the Bagong Pilipinas Service Fair brought by our dear President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. in Davao del Norte. Our citizens feel the help and protection of our government,” Romualdez, the leader of the 308-strong House of Representatives, said.

“This is the largest Service Caravan in terms of the number of beneficiaries helped. Almost 220,000 people have been served and given financial assistance. This is just proof that every Filipino citizen is a priority of President Marcos Jr.,” he added.

hubs may have an influence on the country’s judicial system.

“The SC will investigate these,” spokesperson Atty. Camille Ting said in a message to reporters. Ting made the statement when

Mayor Alice Guo and her companies.

In a press statement, Lumagui said he has ordered BIR personnel to look into the names and entities mentioned during the series of public hearings

SERVING THE PEOPLE. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads the distribution of the Presidential Assistance to Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF) in four provinces of the Bicol Region (Albay, Catanduanes, Sorsogon, and Masbate) today at the Albay Astrodome, Legazpi City, June 7, 2024. This intervention aims to help Bicolanos affected by the El Niño phenomenon.While Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez represented the President at the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) in Davao del Norte, participated in by the biggest contingent of House members including former president and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. PPA Pool Niño Jesus Orbeta and Ver Noveno

sought for comment on Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian's observation that the recent raid of a POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga showed the possible influence of Chinese syndicates on the judiciary.

conducted by the Senate concerning the business ties, among other taxrelated issues, of the embattled mayor.

“I have commanded the whole BIR to cooperate with the Senate and look

"My hunch is that the people behind the POGOs have insiders not just in law enforcement agencies, but even in the judiciary. We may notice that the last few warrants of arrest that

into the mentioned names of individuals and entities as well as their accumulated wealth. The BIR will fully cooperate with the senate investigation on Mayor Guo,” Lumagui said.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

OIL prices will likely roll back by as much as P1.50 per liter next week to reflect the movement of prices in the world oil market following the recent decision of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies to extend the production cut. "Oil prices remain under pressure this week despite OPEC+ agreeing to extend their voluntary production cuts of 2.2 million barrels per day (MMBD) till the end of this year. This decision comes in response to growing concerns over weakening demand growth, high interest rates, and increased production from the US,"

By Charles Dantes and Rio Araja

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos told farmers and fisherfolk in Albay on Friday to use all government assistance to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

"All I ask from our beneficiaries is that you make the most of this opportunity to rise up and start again," President Marcos said in his keynote address.

"Just know that I support all the ways that can help you be productive and your government. Let's help each other, and we will all rise up together," he added.

Along with the Department of Science and Technology, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration on Friday declared the end of El Niño. This means the conditions in the tropical Pacific have returned to El Niño Southern Oscillation-neutral levels. The assistance to El Niño-hit communities included agricultural equipment and supplies from the Department of Agriculture (DA) and its affiliated agencies, such as opensource pumping sets, a cassava granulator, hybrid seeds, various fertilizers, and tractors from the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources also provided fishing boats and gillnets for the beneficiaries. Inbred certified seeds from the

China resorting to gaslighting—Jinggoy

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel V. Cruz

GASLIGHTING seems to be the latest tactic employed by China to divert public attention from their latest act of bullying.

China has been caught on video harassing Filipino troops as they tried to intercept the supply packages airdropped by a military aircraft for those stationed in the BRP Sierra Madre.

"China must immediately cease its illegal, coercive, aggressive, and decep-

China...

The tension arose when a CCG boat repeatedly collided with the PCG as they attempted to meddle with the research activity of the scientists. Despite the interference, Filipino researchers continued diving and collecting coral samples in the area. The situation in the area intensified as a Chinese helicopter flew overhead and 2 inflatable RHIBS appeared.

With the return to the PCG ships, CCG boats and ships pursued the Philippine vessels, repeatedly sounding their horns and attempting to block their path.

Despite these obstacles, the mission concluded safely, and the team returned to BRP Teresa Magbanua.

"They deployed four China Coast Guard vessels, they also deployed two of their choppers and even the hovercraft," PCG spokesperson for the WPS, Commodore Jay Tarriela said on Friday.

"For me this is the action of China to intimidate marine scientists to prevent them from surveying here in Escoda Shoal... They don't have the proper authority to conduct such amphibious operations within our own exclusive economic zone which they don't have informed the Department of Foreign Affairs," he added.

Last March, marine scientists from UP as well as personnel from BFAR were injured during their research activity in Sandy Cay 3 and 4 in the West Philippine Sea after a Chinese aircraft hovered at very range to the sand bar.

Tarriela said in a press conference that the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) 987 of China suddenly conducted military exercises along Escoda Shoal while marine scientific studies were being held there on June 3 to 4.

Tarriela further said that the Chinese Navy got in touch with MRRV9701 (BRP Teresa Magbanua) to inform them that they will be conducting amphibious drills within the area. However, before informing the BRP Teresa Magbanua, the Chinese Navy had already launched its hovercraft.

The BRP Teresa Magbanua is the largest seafaring vessel of the Philippine Coast Guard. It has been deployed since April at Escoda Shoal after Manila received news that China is launching to build another artificial landmass in the vicinity.

"The other day, the PLA conducted an exercise in Sabina Shoal from 1100 to 1800. This was repeated also yesterday. We were able to monitor and challenge all their actions in Sabina Shoal," Philippine Navy spokesperson Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad said.

The Chinese Navy, with its hovercraft and an aircraft, performed maneuvers in the area, added Trinidad.

"First and foremost, they have no right to be within our exclusive economic zone. The conduct of an exercise is unauthorized under UNCLOS. It is not allowed," he added.

SC...

From A1 came out were from Bulacan courts,” Gatchalian said.

“Perhaps the criminals know that operations will be held in the same area. They have gained eyes and ears in the court and they are tipped about what's coming,” he added.

Gatchalian’s observation came after the raid only led to the arrest of 158 Chinese, Vietnamese, and Malaysian nationals.

Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesperson Dr. Winston John Casio said they expected to arrest more than 1,000, but that information on the operation may have been leaked.

Operatives of PAOCC, the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF), and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group raided the POGO hub due to reports of scamming activities, torture, kidnapping, and sex trafficking.

tive actions," said Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, chairperson of the Senate Defense Committee.

He said China’s continuous and blatant disregard for our sovereignty, repeated hostile actions, and reprehensible acts underscore a provocative

pattern of behavior that must be called out and condemned by the global community.

"We will not be intimidated. We will not allow these accusations to taint the reputation of our noble soldiers," Estrada said.

The Ayungin Shoal, the senator asserted, is part of our territory and it is the duty of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine Coast Guard to protect it from any illegal activities.

Beijing has accused Filipino troops of destroying and removing fishing nets installed by Chinese fishermen within

the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. Meanwhile, an administration lawmaker condemned the latest China attacks on Filipino vessels and interception of supplies for the BRP Sierra Madre.

Rep. Robert Ace Barbers termed the acts as barbaric with no place in a civilized world. He condemned the acts and called for the government to file protests not limited to diplomatic “note verbales” but criminal complaints before international bodies.

“The latest uncalled for barbaric

NEW CROWNS. Binibining Pilipinas is marking its 60th anniversary with a big celebration by introducing new crowns and bigger prizes for its upcoming pageant. The two crowns, designed by Manny Halasan, were revealed during the Bb. Pilipinas 2024 press presentation on Friday. Featuring ethical diamonds, the crowns are inspired by the Bb. Pilipinas logo, which incorporates the three stars and a sun from the country's flag. Danny Pata

Speaker... From A1

House Deputy Secretary General Sofonias Gabonada Jr., one of the leaders of the BPSF National Secretariat, said “the 250,000 beneficiaries will prove that the administration of President Marcos, with the strong support from Speaker Romualdez, the leader of the House of Representatives, has been doing everything to provide support for Filipinos.”

Gabonada said “BPSF, a flagship program of the Marcos administration, had already provided billions in financial aid, livelihood assistance and government services in 19 provinces.”

“The BPSF in Davao del Norte is the 19th installment of the Service Caravan, which is envisioned to visit all 82 provinces in the Philippines. It is the 8th in the whole of Mindanao, together with Zamboanga City, Bukidnon, Agusan del Norte, Sultan Kudarat, Davao de Oro and Tawi-Tawi,” Gabonada said, recalling that the TawiTawi BPSF was attended by 95 House members.

Romualdez represented President Marcos Jr. during the BPSF in Davao del Norte, the opening of which was held at the Davao Del Norte Sports and Tourism Center.

On Thursday, President Marcos personally extended close to PhP60 million in financial assistance under the Presidential Assistance to Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF) to help Filipinos affected by the El Niño phenomenon in Davao Region.

In two-separate PAFF distribution events, President Marcos distributed

Tax...

From A1

“The BIR will also conduct its own investigation against the said individuals and entities. Due process will be followed. If the income declared with the BIR does not match the value of the properties amassed during the same taxable years, criminal cases for tax evasion will be filed,” he added.

The BIR has been monitoring the

and inhumane attacks by the trespassers that are all caught on video deserves the highest condemnation from the international community. It did not only show unprovoked aggression, it placed the lives of our people in grave danger," Barbers said.

"It was worse than the illegal water cannon aggression because it was almost like a hand to hand combat with our personnel scrambling to get back the air-dropped supplies for the Sierra Madre that were snatched by the Chinese, unmindful of their own safety," he added.

Sweden eyes defense ties with Philippines

SWEDEN’S defense minister called out China for its actions against Filipino troops in the West Philippine Sea, saying the incidents “put human lives at risk”.

During the celebration of the Swedish National Day in Manila Thursday night, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson vowed to initiate talks for possible defense partnership in the future. Jonson expressed "deep concern for the repeated dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels that have been taking place in the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea."

According to him, such acts not only endanger lives but also undermine regional stability and international norms as well as threaten security in the region and beyond.

on the

trading of the Mean of Platts

PhP10 million each to the provinces of Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte and Davao Oriental in Tagum City, PhP19.52 million to Davao del Sur, and PhP10 million to Davao Occidental in Digos City.

President Marcos highlighted the government infrastructure projects designed to uplift the lives of residents in Davao as he recognized the huge developments in the region.

True to his “Mr. Rice” nickname, Romualdez also led the distribution of 300,000 kilograms of rice to thousands of beneficiaries in Davao del Norte.

Acting Davao Del Norte Governor De Carlo Uy and Tagum City Mayor Rey Uy served as the local co-hosts of the event. With 62 participating national government agencies, over 235 services were offered to more than 250,000 beneficiaries during the twoday festival of services in BPSF Davao Del Norte.

A total of P913 million worth of programs and services were rolled out in the province, some P483 million of which were in the form of cash assistance.

The Department of Social Worker and Development (DSWD) conducted continuous payouts across the province of Davao Del Norte, which reached a total of 80,000 individual AICS and AKAP beneficiaries amounting to P260 million.

Other province-wide activities include various scholarship programs of TESDA and CHED, as well as livelihood assistance for various sectors of pre-identified beneficiaries across Davao del Norte.

Also, the amount of in-kind assistance to the government programs

ongoing probe launched by the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality on Mayor Guo. Recently, the panel led by Sen. Risa Hontiveros held an executive session to dig deeper into the wealth of the Bamban politician.

The cash, properties, and other sources of wealth shown during the senate hearings should be substantiated with proper payment of taxes, according to the BIR. Lumagui said they welcome all in-

Singapore (MOPS), the pricing benchmark used by oil importers. The forecast may still change based on Friday's trading movement. On June 4, the oil companies implemented a mixed adjustment on the price of petroleum products. The oil firms rolled back the price of gasoline by P0.90 per liter but increased the price of diesel and kerosene by P0.60 per liter and P0.80 per liter, respectively.

beneficiaries in Davao del Norte has reached P429 million, including P30 million in health services, P392 million in agricultural services, P54 million in livelihood services, and P174 million in educational services.

Also, a Pagkakaisa Concert was scheduled to be held at the Davao Del Norte Sports and Tourism Center Friday night with free admission and expected to draw an estimated crowd of at least 40,000 people.

In his speech during the distribution of assistance to farmers, fisherfolk, and families in Tagum City Thursday, President Marcos said the administration is working double time to ensure residents will benefit from those projects.

Some of the projects are the Mawab-Maragusan-Caraga Road, CarmenTagum City Coastal Road, Tagum City Bypass Road and Mindanao Railway Project Phase. The projects are nearing completion and are expected to fast track development in the area once finished.

President Marcos also underscored the construction of the sevenstory Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) in Apokon, Tagum City, which is seen to bring quality healthcare and medical services in the region.

The President said the administration is also on track in finishing the New Visayas-Tulalian Farm-to-Market Road that will improve transport of agricultural products to the market.

The visit is part of his program to aid the provinces of Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte and Davao Oriental.

The Chief Executive said he has ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to fast track the completion of flood control projects in Davao Region.

formants, whether from the private sector or government agencies, that could provide the necessary documents and pieces of evidence in auditing Guo and the companies she was involved in.

The controversial mayor has reportedly declared a net worth of P177.5 million with assets totaling P367 million and liabilities of P189 million, based on her sworn statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) as of December 2023. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Year-to-date total adjustment of gasoline and diesel stands at a net increase of P6.65 per liter and P5.45 per liter, respectively. Kerosene, on the other hand, has a net decrease of P0.25 per liter. Prevailing retail prices of petroleum products in the National Capital Region for May 14 to May 20 range from P55.50 to P85.72 per liter for gasoline, P51.49 to P80 per liter for diesel, and P70.96 to P83.01 per liter for kerosene.

"These are not only threats to your national security, but also to our common global security," he said.

Jonson said Sweden is standing firmly behind the call of the European Union and other countries for restraint and full respect of international law in a bid to ensure peaceful resolution of differences and a reduction of tensions in the region.

He also acknowledged the finality of the 2016 Arbitral Ruling and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which favored the Philippines' territorial sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea.

"The UN Charter, UNCLOS, and the Arbitration Award of 2016, as well as other relevant international rules and regulations relating to the safety of life at sea, should be respected at all times," he stressed.

The defense chief also said Sweden can and wants to be a long-term partner of the Philippines in security and defense as the European nation extends its partnership with countries in the Indo-Pacific.

PBBM...

From A1

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided P10,000 each to 5,000 beneficiaries as House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez's office distributed five kilograms of rice per attendee. Additionally, the Office of the President (OP) extended P40,000 to 40 beneficiaries and around PhP100 million to the Provincial Governments of Albay, Catanduanes, Masbate, and Sorsogon. This comprehensive assistance program underscores the government's commitment to supporting communities struck by El Niño, aiming to bolster agricultural productivity and food security in the region.

PAGASA said the transition from ENSO-neutral to La Niña remains likely at 69 percent by July, August or September 2024.

“With these developments, the final advisory for El Niño (2023-2024) is issued, and the Pagasa ENSO Alert and Warning System is now lowered to inactive (ENSO-neutral), while the La Niña Watch remains in effect,” the weather bureau said.

Despite the termination of El Niño and the prevailing southwest monsoon, the impacts of El Niño, such as warmer-than-usual surface temperature and below-normal rainfall, may still continue in several areas of the country,” it added.

All concerned government agencies and the general public are encouraged to monitor and take precautionary measures against the impending climate impacts, Pagasa administrator Dr. Nathaniel Servando said.

IN BRIEF

Muntinlupa celebrates culture with ‘Ko-Mix’

MUNTINLUPA City is celebrating its rich cultural heritage and homegrown talent with the highly anticipated “Ko-Mix” art exhibit, featuring world-class paintings by renowned local artist Reynold Dela Cruz.

Dela Cruz’s vibrant artworks draw inspiration from his childhood spent along the railways of Muntinlupa, when his mother used to rent out Filipino komiks to their neighbors.

The exhibit captures the essence of Muntinlupa’s culture, resilience, and creativity. Dela Cruz’s paintings resonate with nostalgia, inviting viewers to explore their own memories of youth. The Ko-Mix exhibition is open to the public free from May 30 to July 29, 2024, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Museo ng Muntinlupa.

PAF conducts trilateral air patrol over Sulu

THE Tactical Operations Wing Western Mindanao (TOW WestMin) through the Tactical Operations Group Sulu-Tawi-Tawi (TOG SulTaw) of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), carried out another Trilateral Air Patrol (TAP) over the borders of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi utilizing an NC212i aircraft on June 3.

This is part of the collaborative initiative among Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines (INDOMALPHI) to boost peace and security in the area.

The air patrol mission involved personnel from various units, including PAF’s 300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing, TOW WestMin, 220th Airlift Wing, TOG SulTaw, Philippine Navy, Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi, Naval Intelligence and Security Group, and Western Mindanao Command.

The TAP bolstered joint aerial presence in the region, facilitating reconnaissance and surveillance of suspicious foreign vessels and unusual maritime activities. Vince Lopez

India defense reps visit Air Force HQ

REPRESENTATIVES from the National Defense College of India visited the headquarters of the Philippine Air Force in Pasay City on June 5, for a study tour.

The delegation, composed of 15 members led by MGen. Samarth Nagar (Army-III), was welcomed by the Vice Commander, MGen. Augustine Malinit. The tour provided the delegates with an opportunity to engage in briefings and discussions with PAF Officers. These interactions gave them a general understanding of security and strategic considerations of the country in the global context. This program aimed to strengthen the defense ties between the Philippines and India.

The Philippine Army and Philippine Navy will also be visited as part of the delegation’s tour of the country. Vince Lopez

NFA to surpass palay procurement

By Othel V. Campos

THE National Food Authority (NFA) is on track to surpass its palay procurement target for 2024, according to NFA acting administrator Larry Lacson.

Lacson said the NFA has already procured 98 percent of its target of 495,000 metric tons (MT) of rice for the year.

“We are confident that going to wet season, we will hit 100 percent of the target. We only need to fill the remaining two percent,” he said during a palay

procurement sortie in Bulacan Friday.

sufficient for the Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWD) needs, Lacson said.

Lacson reassured the public that the DSWD continues to procure rice from the NFA for prepositioning during lean months and as part of government social programs.

While the NFA currently has a 4-day rice inventory, additional purchases during the next cropping season will bridge the gap and fulfill the 9-day inventory requirement.

The NFA’s well-milled rice inventory

currently sits at 136,000 MT, enough to feed Metro Manila for 35 days in case of a major typhoon. This represents a significant increase from the 145,000 bags of rice held last year.

Lacson emphasized that the recent reduction in rice import tariffs will not impact the NFA’s palay buying price. The agency remains committed to supporting farmers by offering a competitive P30 per kilogram price for palay. The NFA will continue to monitor market trends and adjust their buying price slightly above market rates to incentivize farmers.

The NFA’s aggressive buying in palayproducing provinces aims to achieve the target within 1 to 2 weeks and build stockpiles in preparation for the upcoming La Niña weather phenomenon. The NFA’s rice equivalent stocks are More than 31k

WARM WELCOME. Department of National Defense (DND)

Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. welcomes Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson to Manila, marking the first time that a Swedish defense minister visited the Philippines. Jonson’s visit coincides with the National Day of Sweden on June 6.

Iloilo province allows more jeepneys to ply city during peak hours

By Caloy Lozada

ILOILO CITY —The Iloilo Provincial government has conducted discussions with the city government to allow more jeepneys to enter Iloilo City during peak hours.

Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. spearheaded discussions with the city government.

The first town jeepneys, which include routes from Leganes, Pavia, Oton, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara within Iloilo Province, faced restrictions under the recently implemented Enhanced

Local Public Transport Route Plan (ELPTRP).

This plan, part of the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, initially limited city entry to just 25% of jeepneys from these areas. The reduced access led to significant passenger complaints

and congestion at city boundaries. In response to the restrictions, several jeepney drivers from the first towns staged a two-day transport holiday on June 3 and 4, causing significant inconvenience to commuters traveling from the province to Iloilo City for work.

By Vito Barcelo

MORE than 31,000 job opportunities from local and overseas will be offered to Filipino jobseekers on June 12, Independence Day, to be held in several malls in Metro Manila, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said.

The DOLE said it is inviting applicants to take advantage of the local and overseas vacancies offered by over 500 employers participating in the job fairs across 10 cities in Metro Manila. Among the identified job fair sites are SM Grand Central (Caloocan City); SM Center Las Piñas and Robinsons Place (Las Piñas); SM Megamall (Mandaluyong); SM City Manila (Manila); SM City Marikina (Marikina); Parañaque City Social Hall and Sports Complex (Parañaque City); SM Mall of Asia (Pasay City); SM East Ortigas (Pasig City); SM Fairview (Quezon City); and Vista Mall (Taguig City).

Job seekers are encouraged to be ready with their application requirements, such as resume or curriculum vitae, diploma, transcript of records, and certificate of employment for those formerly employed.

DOT to host inaugural gastronomy forum

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) will host the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific, alongside the 36th UN Tourism Joint Commission Meeting for East Asia and the Pacific and Commission for South Asia from June 26 to June 28 in Cebu.

As travel has become more accessible, gastronomy tourism has become a major driver for travel among tourists, with the World Food Travel Association reporting that around 80% of travelers research food and drink while visiting a destination and classifies over half (53%) of all travelers as “culinary travelers.”

Further, according to a 2023 report by Booking.com, 34% of travelers prioritize restaurants and dining experiences, viewing them as gateways to understanding local traditions and lifestyles.

The event is expected to gather some 300 attendees

including ministers from UN member-states, affiliate members, and tourism stakeholders from international organizations to exchange knowledge and best tourism practices in the Pacific, East, and South Asia regions.

The Philippines, chair of the UN Tourism Commission for East Asia and the Pacific Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed the DOT and stakeholders’ readiness to host the preeminent UN Tourism events, highlighting the country’s hosting as a perfect opportunity for the Philippines to showcase its culinary treasures on a global stage.

“As chair of the UN Tourism Commission for East Asia and the Pacific, the Philippines commits fully to leveraging the region’s strategic position to promote a range of initiatives that will benefit not only our country but also our neighbors, particularly, its rich and diverse gastronomy tourism portfolio,” Frasco said.

DOLOMITE CLEAN UP. In preparation for the rainy season, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources conducted a clean-up drive at the Manila Dolomite Beach. Norman Cruz

Limits set on poll campaign items

By Vito Barcelo

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) said it will require all candidates to use biodegradable campaign materials for the 2025 national and local elections, warning that violations of the rule may be grounds for disqualification.

Poll chairman George Garcia has recommended to the en banc the creation of a committee on environmentally sustainable elections that will look into the proposed measures to will minimize the environmental impact of campaign

activities, such as rallies and sorties, and the production and eventual disposal of campaign materials.

“The posters must be biodegradable and at the same time, should follow what was prescribed not only by the

LTO on track to ’24 revenue collection target

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Office

(LTO) has recorded a 34.07-percent increase in revenue collection from January to May compared to the same period in 2023, indicating that the P33- billion revenue collection target of the agency for 2024 is on the right track.

“From our law enforcers on the roads and our personnel on desks of our frontline services up to the regional offices and the central office, everyone has contributed a lot in achieving this accomplishment,” LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said.

“Under the guidance of our Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, we will sustain our efforts to accomplish our revenue collection target because this target revenue is essential in the delivery of basic services to the Filipino people under the Bagong Pilipinas of our President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.,” he added.

From P12.8 billion revenue collection during January to May 2023, LTO data disclosed that the revenue collection for the same period in 2024 was around P17.19 billion.

Robin

IN BRIEF

Solon wants PNP legal dep’t handle cops’ cases

A LAWMAKER has supported a plan of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to create a legal department within the Philippine National Police (PNP) that will be tasked to exclusively handle cases filed against policemen.

At the same time, Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan of Bicol Saro partylist group recommended that police officers are equipped with body cameras for efficient custody of evidence against criminal suspects when the cases reach the courts.

“We fully support the President’s directive to study the possible creation of a PNP legal department whose main job is to protect police officers from cases of harassment and other similar complaints filed against them,” Yamsuan said.

As a former assistant secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Yamsuan acknowledged this longstanding problem faced by the PNP especially in cases where suspects are able to get off scot-free because of a good legal defense team. Maricel V. Cruz

E-vehicle charging depot passes tests

United Nations (UN) but also our Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR),” Garcia.

The Comelec has previously expressed concerns over the heavy use of campaign materials especially those made of polyvinyl chloride or PVC and colored tarpaulins.

He warned that posters that do not meet Comelec requirements will be regarded as illegal posters and such violation may be grounds for disqualification.

“If they violate rules of the Comelec, which is under the Omnibus Election Code, it will qualify as an election offense and may be grounds for disqualification,” he stressed.

The poll body said almost all of the candidates invest in non-biodegradable campaign materials due to their strength and durability, leading to substantial increases in the volume of plastic wastes resulting to further degradation of the ecosystem. Garcia also mulls to decrease the noise pollution during the campaign and election period.

TURNOVER OF COMMAND.

Maj. Gen Luis Rex Bergante takes over as new commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM), replacing Maj. Gen Jose Maria Cuerpo II who held the position in an acting capacity following the retirement of Lt. Gen Greg Almerol on May 31 following the retirement of Lt. Gen. Almerol last May 1. SSgt. Ambay/PAOAFP

Mall bingo files estafa raps vs. 3 workers, 1 player

AN OPERATOR of one of the country’s biggest mall-based bingo games has filed estafa charges against a player and three of its employees on suspicion of alleged conspiracy to cheat and win P3.96 million in jackpot prize.

In a statement, BingoPlus said it was filing the charges in keeping with its commitment "to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transpar-

ency, and trust within our community.”

The company stressed that it “has zero tolerance for any form of misconduct and will take all necessary legal actions to ensure that these individuals will be punished for their criminal actions.”

“BingoPlus remains dedicated to providing a safe, fair, and enjoyable gaming experience for all,” the firm said.

The accused were identified as Bin-

goPlus SM City Cauayan employees Jefferson Castillo, Catherine Vargas, and Liwliwa Viloria, who allegedly conspired BingoPlus player Rafael Ramirez to manipulate the result of the Bingo Milyonaryo game held in the SM City Cauayan branch of BingoPlus.

In the complaint filed on Thursday with the Office of the City Prosecutor in Cauayan City,

BALANGA City—An electric vehicle charging station at the SM Mall here offering services free of charge has passed the standards of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and recognized as an eco-friendly infrastructure during a two-day benchmarking activity for a project.

The project, Transdisciplinary Approach for Resilient and Sustainable Communities (TRANSFORM), has been launched by DENR in some selected areas in the country to increase their capacities for environment and natural resource management, climate disaster resilience and socio-economic development.

Paula Gayeta, SM City Bataan public relations officer, said the supermall participated in the benchmarking activity of DENR for project TRANSFORM, not only to showcase its dedication to environmental conservation but also to set a standard for others to emulate. "As the Philippines continues its journey towards a more sustainable future, SM Supermalls’ initiatives like this provides hope and inspiration for a cleaner, greener tomorrow. SM Supermalls has long been an advocate of environmental sustainability,” she said. Butch Gunio

CSC discloses results of career service tests

EXAMINEES from the National Capital Region and the Southern Luzon Region have emerged on top of the professional and subprofessional levels, respectively, of the career service examinations held last March 24. Civil Service Commission (CSC) chairman Karlo Nograles announced that a total of 57,683 individuals, or 17.20 percent, passed the exams. Of the 297,952 candidates who took the CSE Professional Level, 51,311 passed, resulting in a passing rate of 17.22 percent. On the other hand, 6,372 out of 37,433 examinees passed the Subprofessional Level, for a passing rate of 17.02 percent.

Viron Gil A. Estrada from the NCR mustered the highest score in the Professional Level, with a rating of 97.30 while Mia Kimberly F. Noche from Region IV led the Subprofessional Level with a top rating of 97.24.

SENATOR Robinhood Padilla has commended the 48 new reservists who have completed their BasicCitizen Military Course (BCMC) and now full-fledged reservists of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

The group called Sandigang Alab Batch 10 reservists predominantly consisted of Senate employees. Padilla, together with Philippine Navy officials Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci, Jr., flag-officer -in-command; Maj. Gen. Joseph Ferrous Cuison, head of the Naval Reserve Command, and Capt. Junmar Sales, National Capital Region commander, welcomed the new reservists following their graduation rites last Navy headquarters in Manila.

The newly-minted reservists underwent a rigorous 20day training where they learned the art of self-defense and a deeper understanding of the role of reservists in protecting the country and the people.

Speaking before the graduates, Adaci emphasized on the crucial role of the reservists in national security.

“Mahalaga ang papel ng mga reservist sa ating pambansang seguridad. Sa panahon ng mga sakuna, kaguluhan, krisis, at iba pang mga hamon, ang inyong presensya at kahandaan ay nagbibigay ng dagdag na lakas at kumpiyansa sa ating hukbo. Noong nakaraang taon, sinimulan na rin ang programa para sapagpapaigting ng AFP Reserve Force upang magkaroon ng mas mahusay na interoperability at malinaw na integrasyon ang reserve force sa ating regular force. Partikular tayo sa interoperability dahil dito nakasalalay ang epektibong ugnayan ng dalawang pwersa (The reservists’ role is crucial. In times of accidents, chaos, crisis, and other challenges, your presence and preparedness gives added strength and confidence to our troops. Last year, the program to enhance the AFP Reserve Force was started to achieve better interoperability and clearer integration of the reservists into the regular force. We are particular on the interoperability because effective coordination between the two forces is critical),” Adaci said.

HOT MEALS FOR VOLCANO EVACUEES. The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) sends hot meals to families affected by Mt. Kanlaon eruption in Negros Occidental. PRC chairman and CEO former senator Richard Gordon underscores the need to provide nutritious, warm food to the evacuees.

NEW AFP RESERVISTS. Senator Robinhood Padilla pins a medal on Rommel Escudero, class president and validictorian of the Sandigang Alab Batch 10 reservists during graduation exercises held at the Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila.

OPINION

Frolicking with Zelenskyy to Armageddon

UKRAINE proxy-dent Volodymyr Zelenskyy, no longer elected president after scheduled elections on April 24, 2024 was cancelled by Martial Law, practically reigns from his official jets avoiding long periods in the homeland he supposedly governs.

He is fearing retribution from dozens of Ukrainian quarters for a lingering war that’s already completely lost while 500,000 of the fittest young Ukrainian soldiers lie rotting in their early graves, courtesy of Russia’s war steamroller.

Just today, the US issued a Travel Advisory to its dual American-Ukrainian citizens to avoid returning to Ukraine as Zelenskyy had just issued the order to draft every dual citizen caught in Ukraine.

A week earlier, Zelenskyy ordered Ukrainian prison gates to release murderers, rapists and every other convicted criminal willing to serve in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

A month earlier, conscription age had been brought down to 25, having already lost all 26 and 27-year-old AFU soldiers.

The US and its NATO vassals are in confusion over what to do.

Their populations are divided between yielding to peace talks and escalating the Ukraine proxy war.

US President Joe Biden has, after two years of wavering, finally authorized the use of its weaponry and missiles given to Zelenskyy for attacks on targets in the territory of Mother Russia that Putin responded with the warning Russia could provide the West’s enemies with “longrange weapons” and potential use of nuclear weapons.

Imagine Iran and Yemen’s Houthis equipped with Russian “long range” ballistic missiles that would equalize the US carrier fleets ready to bombard Iran with cruise missiles in support of an Israeli expansion of the war in Gaza to Lebanon and drawing in Iran.

On NATO, Russian military and political spokesmen have openly imagined the obliteration of Poland with 40 multikiloton nuclear warhead, if missiles hitting Russia were launched from that country.

While the US exhibits seeming hesitation in its escalatory actions, reality shows the US systematically creating the conditions for World War III.

It has always been taken for granted such scenario is beyond any rationale consideration, that just the threat of Armageddon would curtail any will to pursue it.

But the dread of the impending USfinanced Armageddon seems stronger than fear of nuclear mutual annihilation.

Evidence of this is the US executing its “Pivot to Asia” after the delay of the

2010s, expanding the proxy wars projects to Asia using the Philippines’ as Ukraine 2.0.

Last week, Ukraine 1.0 and Ukraine 2.0 finally converged in the Londonbased IISS sponsored Shangri-La Dialogue where the two outstanding US proxies, Zelenskyy and Bongbong Marcos, spoke.

The two later met in Manila discussing Ukraine’s hollow peace summit and, poignantly, mental health aid.

The last effort the Philippines made to stay out of the US drive to global Armageddon was the “easing of tensions” broached by Bongbong Marcos, Jr. to President Xi Jinping at the sidelines of the Nov. 2023 San Francisco APEC Summit the ill-fated Filipino Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos of the Wescom “tried to operationalize” but the US caused him to be fired and humiliated.

But Marcos Jr. is given a circus arena again to somersault and juggle, then Shangri-La Singapore and now Switzerland.

Many believe the US is preparing a ‘false flag’ to create the first Filipino ‘assertive transparency’ martyr

In the South China Sea, tension is again on the rise.

The Chinese Coast Guard inspected for “construction materials” the air-dropped supplies for the BRP Sierra Madre, in accordance with the agreement with the Philippine government prohibiting their delivery to the grounded warship.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines alleged the CCG “seized and dumped into the sea,” and Philippine Marines on board BRP Sierra Madre train (sic) (if not ”aim”) long arms at the civilian Chinese Coast Guard.

However, upon confirmation, only food, water and medicines were in the airdropped package that was eventually cleared. What a petty mess that can lead to a conflagration!

Many believe the US is preparing a “false flag” to create the first Filipino “assertive transparency” martyr, taking the cue from the constant repetition of US and Filipino officials led by then US Indo-Pacific Command chief Admiral John Aquilino that “PH can invoke MDT (Mutual Defense Treaty) if sea attacks kill soldier, sailor” then echoed by Bongbong Marcos, Jr. at the Shangri-La Dialogue. (rpkapunan@gmail.com)

Momentous journey with environmentalist Gen. Velasco

By Melandrew T. Velasco

AS THE country celebrates Philippine Environment Month, I recall snippets of my momentous journey with a fellow environmentalist, the three-star ranked Police Deputy Director General Reynaldo V. Velasco (ret.), not a blood relative, who recently celebrated his 75th milestone.

He is also Million Trees Foundation, Inc. Chairman Emeritus and called GRVV or Gen Rey by friends and MTFI staff – by coincidence this year the MTFI is marking its third anniversary. Last month, as part of its anniversary activities, MTFI feted institutional partners with a thanksgiving dinner at the SMC Multi Purpose Center called Eddie’s Barn in the Million Trees Eco Learning Center inside the La Mesa Watershed compound, Quezon City. My friendship with him, which bloomed 23 years ago, reminds me of Chinese Confucian philosopher Mencius (372 BC-289 BC), quoted as saying “Friends are the siblings God never gave us.”

Addressing food poverty

THE United Nations Children’s Fund has raised the warning: More than one in four children under the age of five worldwide live in “severe” food poverty.

This means over 180 million are at risk of experiencing adverse impacts on their growth and development.

In the Philippines (population 114 million), more than 13 million children – more than a third of all children in the country – live below the poverty line but the government has been aiming to reduce the poverty rate to 14 per cent by the early part of this decade.

UNICEF, which has offices in different countries including the Philippines, recommends young children eat foods daily from five of eight main groups -- breast milk; grains, roots, tubers and plantains; pulses, nuts and seeds; dairy; meat, poultry and fish; eggs; vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables; and other fruits and vegetables.

But 440 million children under the age of five living in about 100 lowand middle-income countries are living in food poverty, meaning they do not have access to five food groups each day.

Of those, 181 million are experi -

encing severe food poverty, eating from at most two food groups.

“Children who consume just two food groups per day -- for example, rice and some milk -- are up to 50 percent more likely to experience severe forms of malnutrition,” according to UNICEF chief Catherine Russell in a statement accompanying the report. That malnutrition can lead to emaciation, a state of being abnormally thin that can be fatal.

We support communication and advocacy activities involving local governments and sectors...to establish ground and gather support and commitment

Glad the Philippine government has adopted a 25-year long-term vision, via an executive order on Oct. 11, 2016 – supported by the Manilabased Asian Development Bank – as a guide for development planning to end poverty in this archipelagic nation by 2040.

The Ambisyon Natin 2040 (Our Ambition 2040) vision states by 2040 the Philippines will be a prosperous, predominantly middle-class society where no one is poor. All future Philippine development plans to be crafted and implemented until 2040 will be anchored on Ambisyon Natin 2040 which will ensure the sustainability and consistency of government strategies, policies, programs and projects across political administrations.

Ambisyon Natin 2040, which reflects the long-term vision and aspirations of the Filipino people for themselves and for the country, is supported by ADB through technical assistance to the National Economic and Development Authority.

A national survey by NEDA as part of the visioning exercise showed 79 percent of Filipinos want a ‘comfortable and simple life’ by 2040. It revealed the most important economic goal is the eradication of poverty and hunger, and creating adequate jobs for all.

The survey also revealed the strong desire of Filipinos to work in their home country rather than overseas, and the importance of family togetherness in their futures.

We support communication and advocacy activities involving local governments and sectors like the academe, civil society and private institutions to establish ground and gather support and commitment.

Poll dancing: Trump pivots on mail-in voting

WASHINGTON, DC – For years, Donald Trump has denigrated mail-in voting as a source of massive election fraud -yet in a jaw-dropping turnaround the Republican presidential candidate has now become a proponent.

The 77-year-old former president announced the launch this week of “Swamp The Vote USA,” a drive to encourage postal ballots, despite blaming them for his defeat in 2020 in an election he still falsely insists was stolen by Joe Biden.

“Republicans must win and we will use every appropriate tool to beat the Democrats because they are destroying our country,” Trump said in a statement launching the initiative.

“Whether you vote absentee, by mail, early in-person or on election day, we are going to protect the vote.”

It is something of a dramatic aboutface for a candidate who has described mail-in voting over the last four years -- without evidence -- as “a whole big scam,” “out of control,” an opportunity for “massive cheating,” and “inaccurate and fraudulent.”

After winning the Iowa caucuses in January the mercurial billionaire said elections with mail-in voting were “crooked” and at a February rally in Michigan he called the practice “totally corrupt.”

But the whiplash-inducing reversal can likely be put down to pure pragmatism, say analysts.

Around 90 percent of the electorate cast their ballots in-person on election day in 1996, but recent decades have seen a dramatic turn to non-traditional methods of early voting.

Legal defeats

The 2020 cycle, with the COVID-19 pandemic raging, was the first in which more people cast ballots by mail than inperson on election day.

I consider GRVV a kuya – a term for an elder brother in Pangasinan where we both come from – whose counsel I always seek out and respect.

He acknowledges my expertise in communications and media and respects my position on varied issues in the same manner I respect his.

It was a continuing streak from his prior tour of duty in the ARMM PRO, ranked 16, when he assumed office and made it No. 1 in 1996

He was assigned in 1997 as Regional Director of PRO 1, the region which includes Pangasinan, and his stint won for him and his successor then Col. Amado

T. Espino Jr. the Best Regional Office Award. It was a continuing streak from his prior tour of duty in the ARMM PRO, ranked 16, when he assumed office and made it No. 1 in 1996.

It was at PRO 1 when I worked with him in publishing the COPs magazine which we published for a year until the tenure of Chief PNP Gen. Leandro Mendoza in 2001.

My alliance with him was further reinforced because of President Fidel V. Ramos, also from Pangasinan.

It was Col. Rey Velasco who organized the PC Special Action Force, now known as PNP SAF, with him as its first battalion commander, which played a crucial role in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution.

Post EDSA Revolution, RVV, known as “Provider 6” in the FVR circle, worked with other SAF officers under FVR’s tutelage. He was among the heroes in EDSA

Democrats outnumbered Republicans using absentee or mail-in ballots by 58 percent to 32 percent, according to polling from the Pew Research Center.

“Tens of millions of American voters prefer early or mail-in voting, including Republicans,” Ray Brescia, of Albany Law School, in upstate New York, told AFP.

“The change of strategy is likely tied to the realization that discouraging those forms of voting might have suppressed Trump’s own voters in the last election.”

The new Republican acceptance of alternative balloting methods first became apparent as Donald Trump Jr. backed early voting in 2022.

Recent decades have seen a dramatic turn to non-traditional methods of early voting

Other converts include longtime Trump ally Kellyanne Conway, who has come around to early voting, and Republican National Committee chairman Michael Whatley, who pitched mail-in voting at a New York Republican gala in April. Yet the Trump campaign and the Republican Party have faced accusations of inconsistency, as they continue to fight mail-in voting in court.

Republican groups have recently lost lawsuits in New York, Illinois and North Dakota targeting early voting or the counting of ballots after election day. They are embroiled in further court

Dos with Gen. Larry Mendoza and Gen. Rex Piad who worked under the wings of Gen. Renato de Villa that launched the presidency of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, whose mother is from Binalonan, Pangasinan. GRVV’s next assignment was as NCRPO Director from 2002-2003 when he was responsible for the security of visiting US President George Bush. As his media handler when he was NCRPO chief, PGMA made him sort of spokesman for the PNP. On account of his alliance with then Executive Secretary Renato de Villa who openly expressed his support for Senator Raul Roco for the 2004 presidential elections, GRVV became a political victim despite being the most senior and qualified to become Chief PNP. He was put in a freezer, then served as Executive Director of the Philippine Center on Transnational Crime. He was Deputy Chief PNP for Operations and Administration prior to

fights in Nevada and Mississippi.

‘Playing the game’

Despite his attacks on the practice, Trump cast mail ballots twice in Florida in 2020 primary elections and used absentee ballots in New York in 2018 and 2017.

But he voted in-person in the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections. His messaging has been as mixed as his voting habits, hinting that he might still harbor private doubts about his new direction.

“Our goal will be one-day voting with paper ballots -- very simple -- and a voter ID. But until then, Republicans must win,” he told Wisconsin rally-goers in April, in a grudging concession.

As recently as May, in New Jersey, Trump encouraged voting by mail but also praised local Republican officials for resisting the practice, calling it “largely corrupt.”

As Trump’s rhetoric has undermined grassroots voting drives, activists in his home state of Florida have stood apart from much of the party by embracing mail-in voting since the 2000 election cycle.

Yet the Republican-run state has seen demand for mail-in ballots drop amid new bureaucratic restrictions against the practice, from 4.3 million requests in 2022 to just two million for the March midterms.

“Trump’s willingness to finally embrace playing the game the way that it’s played is the most important political issue he’s flipped on since becoming president of the United States,” Brian Mudd, a conservative talk radio host in Trump’s backyard of Palm Beach County, said on Thursday.

“And if he’s to become president once again, this marked change in philosophy will be a reason why.”AFP

his retirement on May 22, 2005, getting 122 professional awards and was twice recipient of the Cavalier Award from the Philippine Military Academy. In his different posts, I had the opportunity of working with him, particularly in the communications area. My engagement in the publishing industry enabled me to meet frequently with him, a co-author with me and former DILG Secretary Raffy Alunan of the book “Silver Linings: 25 Years of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution,” published in 2012 by Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. We traveled together with FVR and Raffy Alunan to nine cities in the US for a road show in 2013 to promote the book. (The author. book author and publisher, is president/chief executive officer of Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. and president/executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc., a non-government outfit advocating treeplanting and environmental protection.)

Zelenskyy to address French parliament

ARIS – Ukrainian

PPresident Volodymyr Zelenskyy was scheduled Friday to address the French parliament and US President Joe Biden would deliver a keynote speech on democracy after world leaders marked 80 years since the D-Day landings in World War II.

Biden, Britain’s King Charles III, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and French President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute Thursday (Friday Manila time) to the tens of thousands of Allied troops who stormed the beaches of Normandy in northern France on June 6, 1944.

An additional guest was Zelenskyy, in a stark reminder of the war being waged for over two years in Europe following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in Feb. 2022.

He was due to address the National Assembly, France’s lower house of parliament, from around 0745 GMT before talks with Macron later Friday. Late Friday, Biden was to return to Normandy to give a speech at the Pointe du Hoc, a clifftop promontory where German bunkers were attacked by US troops in a daring assault during the landings, on defending freedom and democracy.

The speech is likely to be seen as a warning against his rival and ex-president Donald Trump in the US presidential election later this year.

Macron will also give a keynote speech in Bayeux, the first French town to be liberated from German occupation after D-Day.

Biden vowed Thursday never to abandon international alliances or Ukraine in its fight against Russia, a pointed swipe at Trump, who has publicly questioned the importance of organizations such as NATO.

“We’re living in a time when democracy is more at risk across the world than at any point since the end of World War II,” Biden said. AFP

India’s Modi to present alliance deal to president

NEW DELHI – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to present a coalition agreement to the president on Friday, after an unexpectedly close election forced his party to rely on allies to keep him in power.

Modi’s Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party ruled outright for the past decade but failed to repeat its prior two landslide wins, defying analyst expectations and exit polls. It was instead forced into quick-fire

talks with a 15-member coalition that agreed to give it the parliamentary numbers to govern.

Modi was expected to visit President Droupadi Murmu with allied party leaders on Friday to seek her formal approval to form the next government, news agency Press Trust of India reported.

IN BRIEF

Israel pounds Gaza refugee camp

Modi’s party has not revealed what concessions alliance members were given to secure their support, but several larger parties were seeking plum ministerial portfolios.

The Indian Express reported Friday that the Telugu Desam Party from the southern state of Andhra Pradesh -- the

The National Democratic Alliance supporting Modi’s third term ambitions “unanimously” chose the 73-year-old premier as leader on Wednesday. The alliance holds 293 seats in parliament, giving it control of the 543seat body.

UN chief Guterres ‘strongly condemns’ Myanmar military attacks on civilians WHO waits on data after fatal 1st human

UNITED NATIONS, NY – UN

chief Antonio Guterres condemned on Thursday (Friday Manila time) recent attacks by Myanmar’s military that reportedly killed scores of civilians in western Rakhine state.

The Arakan Army, an ethnic minority armed group, attacked junta forces in Rakhine in November, ending a ceasefire that had largely held since a military coup in 2021.

Guterres “strongly condemns the recent attacks by the Myanmar military that have reportedly killed scores of civilians, including in Rakhine State,” his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

The AA says it is fighting for more autonomy for the ethnic Rakhine population in the western state, which is also home to around 600,000 members of the persecuted Rohingya Muslim minority.

This week the AA said junta troops had killed more than 70 civilians in a raid on Byain Phyu village, north of the state capital Sittwe.

The junta said the claim was “propaganda.”

Phone and internet services have been all but cut off across Rakhine state, making it difficult to verify reports of violence.

Guterres also called for an end to the “ongoing persecution” of the Rohingya minority who find themselves trapped between the fighting between the junta and the AA.

Rohingya activists have accused the AA of forcibly displacing tens of thousands of members of their community, and burning and looting their homes.

They have also accused the junta of forcibly recruiting thousands of Rohingya to fight against the AA, as the military loses ground.

Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya fled Rakhine for neighboring Bangladesh in 2017 during a crackdown by the military that is now the subject of a United Nations genocide court case.

Guterres also condemned attacks by the junta that reportedly killed civilians in northern Sagaing region, a hotspot for resistance to the military’s 2021 coup. AFP

GENEVA – The WHO has said it is awaiting the full genetic sequence data after a man died of bird flu in Mexico in the first confirmed human infection with the H5N2 strain. No further infections linked to the case have been detected thus far, said Aspen Hammond, a technical officer at the UN health agency’s global influenza program.

“The characterization of this virus is still under way and genetic sequence data should be available soon,” Hammond told a webinar.

“H5N2 viruses have been detected for a long time in birds.”

The 59-year-old, who died after developing fever, shortness of breath, diarrhea and nausea, had “no history of exposure to poultry or other animals” and “multiple underlying medical conditions”, the WHO said in a statement.

The resident of the State of Mexico, on the edge of the capital, was hospitalized on April 24 in Mexico City and died the same day, the statement said.

It was the “first laboratory-confirmed human case of infection with an influenza A(H5N2) virus reported globally”, the WHO said. AFP

ISRAELI strikes hammered a Gaza refugee camp on Friday after a deadly strike on a UN-run school, as the war sparked by Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel entered its ninth month. The conflict has killed tens of thousands, laid waste to much of the Gaza Strip, uprooted most of its 2.4 million population and put them at risk of starvation. Diplomatic efforts to mediate the first ceasefire since a week-long pause in November appear to have stalled, only a week after US President Joe Biden offered a new three-stage roadmap.

Hamas, which has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007, has yet to respond to Biden’s proposal. Israel has expressed openness to discussions while insisting on pursuing its war aim of destroying the Palestinian Islamist group.

Al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital in Deir alBalah in central Gaza said at least 37 people were killed in Thursday’s Israeli strike on the UN-run school in Nuseirat camp. AFP

US mounts oversight of major AI players

WASHINGTON, DC – Top US antitrust enforcers are moving forward with investigations into the roles played by Microsoft, OpenAI and Nvidia in the artificial intelligence boom, according to a report on Thursday (Friday Manila time).

The rapid development of generative AI since the 2022 release of ChatGPT has raised concerns over whether these three companies will play an outsized role in the new sector.

Antitrust regulators in Europe, Britain and now the United States have committed to taking a closer look at the industry, hoping to avoid the emergence of a single dominant player that would dictate the technology’s future. According to the New York Times, the US Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have agreed on how they will divide the work in the investigations of the AI giants. Such an agreement is a key signal that the US government is getting serious about investigating the industry. AFP

Deadly landmines pose hidden threat

TRIPOLI, Libya – Hundreds of deadly landmines and unexploded ordnance still litter parts of Libya after years of fighting, posing a constant danger to civilians, especially children, long after the conflict.

“It’s a disaster zone,” said Saleh Farhat, describing his neighborhood on the southern outskirts of the capital Tripoli, where his son Mohamed was being treated in a hospital intensive care unit after being severely injured in an explosion. Although relative calm has returned to the oil-rich country since the battle for Tripoli four years ago, the United Nations says more than 400 people, including 26 children, have been injured or killed since 2019 in accidents linked to left-over explosive devices. Mohamed Farhat, 10, was playing with friends in a garden when the children picked up what they thought was a piece of scrap metal. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

STARK REMINDER. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (center) reacts as he is applauded by other leaders (left/right): Italian President Sergio Mattarella, Czech President Petr Pavel, Ukrainian President’s wife Olena Zelenska, European Council President Charles Michel during the International commemorative ceremony at Omaha Beach marking the 80th anniversary of the World War II ‘D-Day’

landings in Normandy, in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, in northwestern France, on Thursday. The D-Day ceremonies marked the 80th anniversary since the launch of ‘Operation Overlord,’ a vast military operation by Allied forces in Normandy, which turned the tide of World War II, eventually leading to the liberation of occupied France and the end of the war against Nazi Germany. AFP

de Sambo de Paris, held at the Stade Charléty Salle Charpy Avenue Pierre de Coubertin in Paris.

The 23-year-old collegiate judo MVP, Sy-Tancontian, triumphed over hometown favorite Didier Biansomba of France in the men’s under-98kg category finals to secure the first gold medal for the Philippines.

This victory followed his impressive gold medal win at the 2024 Dutch Open in his favored Seniors Sport Sambo ring event last March at the Sports Hall ‘Trefkoele Plus’ in Dalfsen, Netherlands.

Just last April, the University of Santo Tomas student-athlete also pocketed two gold medals at the 2024 Philippine Judo Open in the men’s under-100kg and men’s open weight divisions.

The experience and knowledge gained from the training camp in Russia last month greatly benefited the University of Santo Tomas student-athlete, preparing him for the more challenging European samboists.

Multi-international medalist Yap continued her impressive winning streak by reigning in her favored women’s under-80kg Seniors Sport Sambo event, defeating Joannie Delbar of France with a score of 4-1.

This marks Yap’s second European competition, where she previously won a bronze medal at the 2024 Dutch Open. She also dominated the recently concluded 2024 Judo National Open last April, winning the women’s +78kg and women’s open weight divisions.

It was also time to shine for professional MMA fighter Mark Striegl , who bagged the bronze in the men’s 71kg battle.

Tancontian said he is planning to conduct more clinics and tournaments to be led by his pioneering champions.

“We are also hosting a beach sambo tournament to help make it more popular among students and young enthusiasts.”

NLEX appoints multi-titled Uichico as head coach

A NEW chapter begins for the NLEX Road Warriors as Jong Uichico has been assigned as the team’s head coach for the PBA’s 49th Season. With the Road Warriors continuing to work on the collective goal of winning the first championship for the franchise, NLEX will have a seasoned veteran at the helm who has nine PBA titles under his belt.

A two-time PBA Coach of the Year, Uichico has gained important experience in working with the Road Warriors in his short stint as assistant coach and now he’ll have the opportunity to run the squad as the lead tactician.

“The NLEX Road Warriors are excited to take this new journey with coach Jong Uichico,” said NLEX Corporation president and General Manager Luigi Bautista.

“He brings a wealth of experience to the squad and a clear idea of what it takes to win a championship as the fourthwinningest coach in PBA history.”

Uichico’s first stint as PBA head coach started in 1999 with the San Miguel Beermen. He also coached Barangay Ginebra and TNT, leading all three teams to championships.

Uichico is also a long-serving assistant coach for Gilas Pilipinas Men.

He’ll take over for coach Frankie Lim, who was with the Road Warriors for four conferences, including two playoff appearances.

“We are grateful to coach Frankie Lim for his dedication to the Road Warriors and we thank him for his contributions,” said NLEX Governor Ronald Dulatre.

and secretary-general

Cycling chief Tolentino vows to up sport’s ante

PHILIPPINE Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino vowed to up the ante for cycling after receiving the 2024 Merit Award during the Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC) Congress in Kazakhstan.

“It’s a recognition from cycling’s continental body that inspires us to do better for Philippine cycling,” said Tolentino after receiving the award at the Intercontinental Hotel in Almaty on Thursday.

Tolentino is also the president of the national sports association for the sport, PhilCycling, which fielded a 22-athlete team, the biggest since 1995, to the ACC Championships for Road that coincides with the Congress.

“My heartfelt gratitude to the ACC for recognizing the PhilCycling’s effort to

advance further our sport in the country,” he said.

Tolentino’s administration at PhilCycling started to bear fruit back in 2005 when as mayor of Tagaytay City hosted BMX racing as demonstration sport and eventually as a medal sport at the UCI-standard BMX track when the country hosted the 2019 30th Southeast Asian Games.

His watch saw the conduct of two UCI continental races and emergence of four continental teams, and more

importantly the participation in the London 2012 Olympics of Danny Caluag, who went on to win the Philippine one and only gold medal at the Incheon 2014 Asian Games. SEA Games medalists Jermyn Prado (road race gold 2019 SEA Games) and Ronald Oranza (double bronze medalist 2023 Cambodia SEA Games), meanwhile, lead the national team—11 men and nine women—competing in the continental championships road that started on Thursday and ends June 12. The participation of the delegation— the biggest since 1995 when the country last hosted the Asian championships in Subic and the then Amoranto Velodrome in Quezon City—is principally backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, POC and Standard Insurance with the support of Asiana Airlines.

vivo partners with UA&P Men’s Futsal Team to launch ‘24 Inter-Collegiate Futsal League

GLOBAL smartphone leader, vivo, has proudly partnered with the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) Physical Education Department and Men’s Futsal Varsity Team on June 3, underscoring its commitment to health, fitness, and community engagement.

As a prestigious partner of the National Basketball Association and UEFA Euro 2024, vivo extends its support to the local level by sponsoring UA&P’s InterCollegiate Futsal Tournament and High 5 Men’s Open Tournament.

The upcoming event, named the UA&P - vivo PH Inter-Collegiate Futsal League 2024, will run from August to December 2024. Futsal or futbol sala, an indoor version of football, continues to grow in popularity, and vivo’s sponsorship aims to further boost its visibility and participation.

The official contract signing cer-

Young Flores makes waves in Olivarez tennis meet

TWELVE-YEAR-OLD

Jairo Flores showcased his burgeoning talent with impressive victories to kick off his campaign in the boys’ 16-and-under division, signaling his readiness to compete at a higher level in the Mayor Eric Olivarez National Junior Tennis Championships in Sucat, Parañaque Thursday. Despite being unranked, Flores, who recently clinched the boys’ singles title at the Cordillera Administrative Regional Athletic Association (CARAA) meet in Kalinga, Apayao, defeated Wimbly Peraja 4-1, 4-2. He followed this up with another commanding performance, dominating No. 11 Kenji Kue, 4-1, 4-0, securing his spot in the third round of the tournament at the Olivarez Sports Center and Parañaque courts in Sucat. Hailing from Tabuk City, Kalinga, Flores is known for his exceptional skills and well-rounded game at his young age. He views this Group 1 tournament as crucial preparation for the upcoming Palarong Pambansa in Cebu next month. But Flores faces a tough challenge in the next round against No. 6 Anthony Cosca, who advanced after drubbing Dean Palaroan 4-2, 5-3 following an initial bye. The tournament, which attracted a record 416 participants across nine age groups, promises fierce competition in all categories. The tennis festival spans two weeks, featuring the Open men’s singles and doubles from June 8 to 16. Additionally, the Legends men’s doubles, including the 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s divisions, along with women’s doubles for the 35s and 45s age categories, also got under way Friday till Sunday with the second part scheduled from June 14-16 at the OSC.

Jairo Flores

emony saw UA&P represented by Tournament Director and UA&P Team Manager Angelica Ysabelle Ang, Tournament Chair and PE Department Head Christian Dominguez, and Team Manager Kassandra Benipayo. vivo Philippines was represented by Brand Marketing Department Head Liu Lu.

In a symbolic gesture of partnership, both organizations exchanged Little V and Uappy the Dragon dolls. Liu Lu expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We at vivo are thrilled to support the UA&P Men’s Futsal Varsity Team. This collaboration is a testament to our dedication to fostering sportsmanship and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this tournament will have on the community.”

Several futsal players attended the event, enjoying the opportunity to test out vivo’s latest smartphone models, further highlighting the brand’s innovative and community-oriented approach. To keep updated on the UA&P - vivo PH Inter-Collegiate Futsal League 2024, follow vivo on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

UEFA Champions League winners

THE UEFA Champions League final kicked off at London’s legendary Wembley Stadium.

As the Official Global Partner of the top-flight football competition, OPPO brought its flagship smartphone, OPPO Find X7 Ultra, to capture unforgettable moments from the match and celebrate the crowning of the 2024 UEFA Champions League winners. The OPPO Find X7 Ultra is the latest flagship phone to feature powerful imaging capabilities that empower users to capture and experience true-to-life content from their favorite football games. To celebrate and relive these life-time moments with fans around the world, OPPO took the big screen inside Wembley Stadium during the final to showcase user photos shot on OPPO smartphones and selected from the OPPO imagine IF Photography Awards’ What A Shot category. As part of the celebrations, OPPO global brand ambassador, Kaká, once again joined the brand at the exclusive OPPO Hospitality Lounge to meet and greet with fans across a full program of activities, together with a special magician. Alongside the main action, OPPO also hosted the OPPO Booth at Potters Field Park near Tower Bridge, where it brought elevated UEFA Champions League experiences to football fans far and wide.

“It’s inspiring to see OPPO’s industry-leading mobile imaging technologies continue to elevate the experience for football fans and enable them to capture countless inspiring moments both on and off the pitch during the past two seasons of the UEFA Champions League.” said Billy Zhang, President of Overseas MKT, Sales and Service at OPPO.

Exciting on-site activities elevate the match-day experience OPPO’s Hospitality Lounge returned to the Champions Village this year with even more interactive on-site activities for fans. In the lounge, guests could experience the electric atmosphere of the world’s top football competition in different OPPO x UEFA Themed Spaces, take a breather from the action with some relaxing on-site games, and discover the latest OPPO technology across a range of OPPO smartphones and smart devices. At the OPPO x UEFA Imaging Zone, guests also had the opportunity to see some

Abraham ‘Bambol’Tolentino receives his Merit Award from Asian Cycling Confederation president Osama Al Shafar (second from left) of the United Arab Emirates and (from left) Senior Vice President Raja Sapta Oktohari of Indonesia

Onkar Singh of India.

Shown here are (from left) Kassandra Benipayo, Angelica Ysabelle Ang, and Christian Dominguez from UA&P and Liu Lu, Jhomai Canlas, and John Paul Lascano from vivo Philippines.

OPPO Booth at the Champions Festival

SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Sambo rises to new heights in Philippines

By Randy Caluag

SAMBO, a combat sport of Soviet origin, is growing by leaps and bounds in the Philippines, according to Pilipinas Sambo Federation president Paolo Tancontian.

The sambo chief takes pride in bringing the sport to new heights as the federation leader, especially when three of his national athletes displayed impressive throws and techniques in Sambo and brought home two golds and a bronze medal in Paris, France, host of the 2024 Olympics.

“In our early days, we were just a few (practitioners) but because of the growth of mixed martial arts, sumabay ang sambo at agad nakilala ang ating mga atleta dahil sa galing nila,” he said.

Just recently, 2019 Southeast Asian Games champion Chino Sy-Tancontian a nd 2023 Asian & Oceania SAMBO Championship bronze medalist Aislinn

Agnes Yap topped their respective categories at the 2024 Grand Prix

Celtics’ Porzingis unleashes Finals’ Game 1 to remember

PH booters fail to sustain good 1st half in loss to Vietnam

By Peter Atencio

THE Philippines showed its dangerous side in the first half but still took a 2-3 setback to Vietnam on Thursday night 2026 FIFA World Cup Asia Qualifiers in Hanoi’s My Dinh Stadium.

National coach Tom Saintfiet said this as the Philippines moved out of contention for a spot in the third round.

“I think in the first half, Vietnam was pushing, but we were more dangerous with our counterattacks. I think the best result for both would have been a draw,” said Saintfiet.

The Philippines’ fourth straight loss put them in last place in the Group F standings.

Patrick Reichelt scored first for the Philippines in the 62nd minute, before Vietnam’s Tien Linh Nguyen came in three minutes for the first of two successive goals.

Saintfiet said Vietnam gave them a good fight.

“I’m very disappointed, but naturally, Vietnam is a good team,” added Saintfiet.

Tien then struck again in the 76th minute, to give Vietnam a 2-1 edge.

Kevin Ingreso then went for an equalizer in the 89th minute, 2-all, but Tuan Tai Pan slotted in a rebound off Neil Etheridge save during a quick Vietnamese counterattack before the time was up.

With its losses, the Philippines, however, still got a seat in the third round of the Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.

NEW YORK—Kristaps Porzingis made his first NBA Finals game a night to remember Thursday, following a 38-day layoff that saw him miss much of the Boston Celtics’ run to the title showdown with Dallas.

The Latvian forward came off the bench in his first game since injuring his right calf in the first round in April and tortured his former team on both ends of the floor.

“Obviously it wasn’t ideal that I was out for such a long time,” Porzingis said after contributing 20 points in the Celtics’ comprehensive 107-89 victory over Dallas in game one in Boston.

“But I did everything I could to prepare mentally for this moment coming back and it paid off, and we got the job done tonight and had a good game.”

Porzingis said an “unreal” ovation from the TD Garden crowd helped him get off to his quick start.

“The adrenaline was pumping through my veins and that definitely helped,” he said.

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said before the game he wanted to see “defense, offense, communication, playing hard” from Porzingis -- and he got all of that as Porzingis added six rebounds and three blocked shots in his 20-plus minutes on the floor.

Asked this week if he was 100 percent recovered from the injury, Porzingis seemed a little hesitant.

But after testing himself on the league’s biggest stage, there were no doubts remaining.

“Tonight was an affirmation to myself that I’m pretty good (physically),” he said.

“Maybe I’m not perfect, but I’m pretty good and I can play like this and I can definitely add to this team.”

“It’s just basketball,” he added. “Even if I have time off, I can jump right back in and I feel the same way.”

The Celtics beat Cleveland in five games in the second round and swept the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference

without Porzingis.

But Jaylen Brown, who led Boston’s scoring with 22 points, said his teammate’s return gave the team more options.

“Kristaps has been great for us all season long,” Brown said, adding that the Latvian was a “big reason” Boston led the league with 64 regular-season wins.

“Having him back and him playing well and to that level he was during the season is so important for us because you got another defender, another shooter out there that you have to respect. So that just opens it up for everybody else,” Brown said. AFP

Youngsters take the stage at Choco Hero IRONKIDS

THE spotlight shines on the future of Philippine triathlon as young athletes take center stage ahead of their more experienced counterparts in the Choco Hero IRONKIDS, kicking off today (Saturday) at the Subic Bay Boardwalk.

Greg Banzon, Executive Vice-President and COO of Century Pacific Food, Inc., emphasizes key points during the Century Tuna IRONMAN Philippines press conference at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center Friday. Also present at the event are (from left) SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Alino, Regional Director of the organizing IRONMAN Group Princess Galura, Vice President and General Manager of the Branded Tuna Division at Century Pacific Food Inc. Carlo Endaya, and top Filipino triathlete August Benedicto. This non-timed race focuses on fun and participation, providing valuable exposure for enthusiastic kids who dream of competing in premier endurance races someday. Participants, ea-

Un appable Ramos rises, claims ICTSI Lakewood crown

CABANATUAN CITY—Sean Ramos brandished remarkable composure, overcoming two of the Philippine Golf Tour’s esteemed players to clinch the ICTSI Lakewood Championship crown with a brilliant 67 here yesterday (Friday).

Facing stiff competition from seasoned rivals, Ramos, just 20 years old, held his nerve under pressure. Tied at 17-under with Reymon Jaraula heading into the 16th hole, he showed maturity beyond his years. He birdied the par-4 hole from six feet, while Jaraula faltered with a missed par putt from four feet, resulting in a crucial two-shot swing.

Ramos maintained control down the stretch, finishing with pars to secure his first Philippine Golf Tour victory by a two-stroke margin. He capped off a strong performance with a second consecutive six-under-par round, posting a total of 18-under 270 over 72 holes at the challenging Lakewood Golf and Country Club course.

“I can’t put into words how I feel right now,” said Ramos, elated after his breakthrough win in the circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. “This victory means so much to me after coming close several

times before.”

Throughout the tournament, Ramos faced relentless pressure from more experienced competitors but stayed composed. His solid front nine, highlighted by three consecutive birdies from No. 3, countered his rivals’ advances effectively.

Even as challenges mounted on the back nine, Ramos’s clutch birdie on the 16th proved decisive, paving the way for his victory and signaling his arrival as a rising star i n Philippine golf.

“I handled the pressure well and enjoyed every moment of the competition,” said Ramos, who also contended at Palos Verdes and at the Philippine Masters but struggled in the final day of both events. “I played strategically in the closing holes to secure the win without taking unnecessary risks.”

For his triumph, Ramos earned P450,000 in prize money and looks forward to carrying this momentum into upcoming events on the Asian Development Tour. Jaraula, who birdied the 14th to tie, also finished with a 67 for 272 worth P295,000, while Lascuña carded a 69 for third at 273. He received P170,000.

ger and ready to showcase their skills, range from 6 to 15 years old. The 13-15 age group will vie in the 250m swim, a 6km bike ride, and a 2km run starting at 6 a.m. Younger age brackets include 11-12 (200m swim, 4km bike, and 1.5km run) at 6:30 a.m., 9-10 (150m swim, 4km bike, and 1.5km run) at 7:20 a.m, and 6-8 (100m swim, 2km bike, and 1km run) at 7:50 a.m. A relay competition spices up the action with the mixed team categories for ages 11-15 (200m swim, 4km bike, and 1.5km run) and 6-10 (100m swim, 2km bike, and 1km run). The IRONKIDS serves as a prelude to the highly anticipated Century Tuna full-distance IRONMAN Philippines and the IM 70.3 Subic Bay, set for tomorrow (June 9). The event has long complemented the IRONMAN series by nourishing talent, promoting an active lifestyle among children, and fostering values such as discipline and sportsmanship while encouraging physical activity over screen use.

Greg Banzon, Executive Vice-President and COO of Century Pacific Food, Inc., emphasizes key points during the Century Tuna IRONMAN Philippines press conference at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center Friday. Also present at the event are (from left) SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Alino, Regional Director of the organizing IRONMAN Group Princess Galura, Vice President and General Manager of the Branded Tuna Division at Century Pacific Food Inc. Carlo Endaya, and top Filipino triathlete August Benedicto.

Kristaps Porzingis of the Boston Celtics dunks the ball against Dereck Lively II of the Dallas Mavericks during the rst quarter in Game 1 of the

Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. AFP

Sean Ramos shows his trophy. Manny Marcelo

Paolo Tancontian extreme right), president of Sambo Pilipinas, with the three Filipino medalists.

TOURISM IMMERSION.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, along with Philippine Experience Program (PEP) delegates, clad in full T’boli regalia, immerses in the T’boli community’s culture, while riding the traditional owong boat for a tour of the breathtaking Lotus Garden at Lake Sebu. The delegates embarked on an immersion in the community’s weaving traditions as well as cultural performances and display of local products.

6.7%

Volume of production growth in April

Manufacturing output rebounded 6.7% in April

5.9% 75.2%

ANUFACTURING output in the Philippines rebounded in April after a slump in March, the Philippine Statistics Authority said Friday.

in April after an annual decline of 6.8 percent in March. VaPI was down 0.6 percent in the first four months.

Value of production growth in April

Average capacity utilization rate

Spot market suspension reduces power rates by 66%

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission said Friday the suspension of the spot market during red alerts reduced prices by up to 66 percent from what they would have been without the suspension.

It said it decided to order the suspension of the spot market to shield consumers from the high prices amid the tight supply situation.

The ERC, pursuant to its order dated April 30, 2024, directed the suspension of trading in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) in Luzon and the Visayas in three occasions. This froze WESM pricing for a total of 1,997 intervals in Luzon and 402 in the Visayas from May 23 to May 31, 2024.

“Data show that with the suspension, the prices were reduced by 66 percent and 64 percent in Luzon and Visayas regions, respectively, from what the prices would have been without the suspension. The suspension prevented the likely increase of WESM prices to P27.637 per kilowatt-hour in Luzon and P27.366 per kWh in the Visayas,” the regulator said.

It said that without the suspension on May 23 at 1:05 p.m. to May 25 at 12:50 a.m. in Luzon, real time prices at the WESM reached a high of P27.637 per kWh. This would have been the resulting price paid by consumers to generators if the ERC did not suspend the market during red alert compared to the P9.362 per kWh indicative price when suspended, it said.

The ERC said this translated into a 66-percent decrease in the average indicative prices in the Luzon grid. WESM prices were at P5.657 per kWh before the red alert on May 23. It said the market suspension on May 27 at 1:05 p.m. to May 28 at 9 p.m. reduced electricity prices by 53 percent as prices would have gone up to P23.384 per kWh.

The volume of production index (VoPI) for manufacturing rose 6.7 percent year-on-year in April, following a 5.8-percent decline in March.

“This brings the average growth rate of VoPI from January to April 2024 to 0.5 percent,” the PSA said.

“In April 2023, VoPI recorded an annual increase of 8.0 percent.”

The PSA attributed the uptick in VoPI to a surge in food manufacturing, which grew 6.8 percent year-onyear in April after a 13.2-percent decline in March.

Other contributors to the growth were the manufacture of transport equipment (up 5.1 percent year-onyear in April from a decline of 12.0 percent in March) and fabricated metal products (up 32.3 percent in April from a decrease of 3.1 percent in March).

Twelve of the 19 remaining industry divisions exhibited annual increases in their indices during the period, while the other seven posted annual decreases. The value of production index (VaPI) also increased 5.9 percent

Data show that the recovery of VaPI was driven by the strong performance of food manufacturing, which increased 7.4 percent year-on-year in April after a decline of 12.5 percent in March. Food manufacturing contributed 31.4 percent to the uptrend of VaPI for the manufacturing sector in April.

Other contributors to the growth of VaPI were transport equipment (up 6.6 percent year-on-year in April from a decline of 11.4 percent in March) and electrical equipment (up 40.9 percent in April from a decrease of 4.3 percent in March).

Phase 1 of LRT 1 Cavite extension project to open in Q4

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Light Rail Manila Corp. said Friday the LRT-1 Cavite Extension phase 1 is on schedule to open by the fourth quarter of 2024.

The company said the construction of phase 1 was progressing as scheduled, with 98.2-percent completion rate as of end-April 2024. It will add 6.2 kilometers to the existing LRT-1 line from Baclaran Station in Pasay City to Dr. Santos Station in Paranaque City, improving the connectivity of southern Metro Manila.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the railway project remained on track for its target commercial opening in the fourth quarter.

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said the project represents a dramatic shift in transit-oriented development and will act as a catalyst for economic activity. It also includes the procurement of 30 four-car fourth-generation light rail vehicles to be operated across the entire LRT-1 alignment.

The extension project, with a total project cost of P64.915 billion, is being financed through a hybrid model consisting of P17.80 billion in official development assistance (ODA) from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA); P39.57 billion from LRMC; and P7.55 billion from the government.

The five new stations under phase 1 are at various stages of completion

Saudi Aramco share offering to raise $11.2b

RIYADH—Saudi oil giant Aramco on Friday said it would price its secondary offering at 27.25 Saudi riyals ($7.27) per share, in the lower end of its range, allowing it to raise $11.2 billion.

The mostly state-owned jewel of the Saudi economy announced last week it would sell 1.545 billion shares, or approximately 0.64 percent of its issued shares, on the Saudi stock exchange.

The move follows an initial public offering in December 2019 that raised $25.6 billion, the biggest flotation in history, and will offer a short-term boost to Saudi Arabia’s finances as the Gulf kingdom builds large-scale projects including resorts and stadi-

ums as part of ambitious economic reforms. The share price announced on Friday, disclosed in a statement to the Saudi stock exchange, is at the low end of the range of 26.70 to 29 Saudi riyals ($7 to $7.70) announced last week. It follows days of book-building for investors inside and outside the kingdom, allowing officials to gauge demand.

About 10 percent of the shares were offered to retail investors from Monday.

“The retail offering was fully subscribed and received a total of 1,331,915

with Redemptorist Station registering 97.4 percent; MIA Station, 97.2 percent; Asia World Station, 90.4 percent; Ninoy Aquino Station, 93.5 percent; and Dr. Santos Station, 97.7 percent.

All five stations boast of an inclusive design, featuring two elevators per station for easy access for passengers with disabilities (PWDs). Escalators will serve both northbound and southbound passengers, ensuring a smooth flow of traffic.

LRT-1 Dr. Santos Station, the end terminal for Phase 1, will serve as a major transit hub. Passengers will have seamless access to various modes of transportation through the intermodal facility.

PITX posts 146m overall foot traffic

THE Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), the first landport in the country, said Friday it reached a milestone of 146 million overall foot traffic since it opened in November 2018. It said the achievement highlights the company’s consistent growth, popularity and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to the commuting public.

“This milestone reflects the trust and loyalty of millions of visitors who have chosen PITX as their preferred transportation hub. We are thrilled to have reached 146 million overall foot traffic since we started operations,” said Jason Salvador, corporate affairs and government relations head of PITX.

PITX attributed this to a combination of innovative offerings and strategic initiatives designed to enhance the visitor experience.

PITX also announced the upcoming launch of new routes. Starting June 13, Solid North will operate new routes to Dagupan and San Carlos, Pangasinan, while on June 14, Victory Liner will commence operations of a new route to Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. These new routes are set to provide more convenient travel options for passengers, enhancing connectivity and accessibility to key destinations, it said.

Darwin G. Amojelar

FREEDOM EVENTS. Officials and members of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) led by president Dr. Cecilio Pedro (seated, center) announce the holding of various events including the ‘FFCCCII Lakad Magkaibigan’ civic walk on June 9, 2024 to commemorate Independence Day. The FFCCCII, which includes 170 Filipino Chinese chambers of commerce and business associations nationwide, remains dedicated to championing Philippine economic development and participating in numerous philanthropic, socio-civic and cultural projects. Michael Wong Ho

CREC LISTING. Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC) lists its shares on the main board of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) Friday, raising P5.4 billion from its initial public offering (IPO). Attending the listing ceremony are (from left) UK FCDO climate and economic counsellor Lloyd Cameron, CREC Chief investor relations officer Joan Cosico, director Louie Ferrer, president and chief executive Oliver Tan, chairman Edgar Saavedra, Securities and Exchange Commission chairman Emilio Aquino, PSE president Ramon Monzon, chief operating officer and executive vice president Roel Refran, corporate secretary Aissa Encarnacion, issuer regulation division Head Marigel Baniqued-Garcia and general counsel Veronica Del Rosario.

Shares climb on expected BSP rate cuts

PHILIPPINE stocks ended the week in the green on renewed optimism over the possible interest rate cut by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas this year. The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index closed at 6,518.76, up 8.90 points or 0.14 percent, while the wider all-shares index rose 2.14 points, or 0.06 percent, to end at 3,491.93, Philstocks Financial Inc. research

analyst Claire Alviar said the market’s increase was driven by heightened expectations of a possible rate cut by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in the early part of the second semester.

Alviar said the 3.9 percent May inflation rate, which was within the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent, boosted investors hope of possible easing of interest rates in the country.

Except for holding firms which fell 0.67 percent, all other indices increased. Financials rose 0.65 percent, followed by mining and oil which climbed 0.59 percent. Value turnover amounted to P3.99 billion.

Meanwhile, the share price of newly-listed Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. ended flat at P2.70 apiece, after hitting an intra-day high of P2.78 each.

Other Asian markets fluctuated Friday and investors trod cautiously ahead of US jobs data that could play a key role in the Federal Reserve’s plans for cutting interest rates, with the bank’s next policy decision looming next week.

The mood on trading floors has ebbed and flowed for weeks as dealers try to read the tea leaves on the Fed, with the latest data suggesting the labor market was finally softening, giving decision-makers room to begin loosening monetary policy.

Figures on Tuesday showed job openings had fallen more than expected, while Wednesday’s ADP private-sector gauge also came in below forecasts.

Preceding both of them was news that the US factory sector contracted in May for a second successive month, indicating the world’s top economy was slowing down.

But topping the bill this week is the non-farm payrolls report, which is closely watched by the Fed for an idea about health of the labor market.

Bank officials have long argued that a softening on the jobs front and lower inflation were their main tests when deciding on when to cut rates.

Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

PLDT, Smart vow to support workplace diversity, inclusion

PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) reiterated their commitment to upholding diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and human rights in the workplace as the world celebrates the Pride Month this June.

“As advocates of inclusion in the workplace, we continue to embrace our employees’ uniqueness and diverse backgrounds by providing them with a safe and engaging space. As an equal opportunity employer, we recognize that diversity is a positive driver of competitiveness,” said PLDT and Smart chief people officer Gina Ordoñez.

“We acknowledge that an inclusive culture -- where our employees’ inimitable qualities, skills, and differences are respected -- encourages innovation, and ultimately helps contribute to building a better community for us all,” said Ordoñez.

PLDT and Smart will engage the workforce in heartfelt conversations all throughout June on topics that can help them become better allies of the LGBTQIA+ community, as part of the group-wide campaign “Every Color, Every You” for Pride Month.

PLDT and Smart said they would again support the Pride March in Quezon City on June 22 with a contingent of LGBTIA+ employees and allies.

The PLDT Group, as a member-signatory to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), established a diversity and inclusion policy that embraces diversity and strives to foster an inclusive culture in the workplace.

PLDT and Smart adopted a human rights policy to formalize their decades-long commitment to support internationally recognized human rights principles and ensure that business operations uphold human rights throughout the organization.

UK’s MOBILIST invests $12.5m in CREC’s initial public offering

By Jenniffer B. Austria

United Kingdom’s MOBILIST programme invested $12.5 million in the newly-listed Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC).

CREC president and chief executive Oliver Tan said in a news briefing MOBILIST’s investment demonstrates the company’s upward potential in the Philippine renewable energy space.

MOBILIST programme, one of the company’s foreign anchor investors, is an initiative by the British Investment Partnership to deliver assistance to support infrastructure development and green transmission in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. This also marked MOBILIST’s first investment in the Philippines.

“With the investments made during the IPO, we have gained even more confidence in our ability to develop and expand our green energy portfolio. These investments are integral to

the country’s transition to a cleaner form of power and our hope is to contribute to a more sustainable and affordable energy solution for all,” Tan said. CREC will raise up to P5.4 billion from the sale of 1.76 billion common shares and an overallotment option for another 267.86 million shares priced at P2.70 per share. The offer attracted reputable domestic and international institutional investors. CREC said that post listing, it would have a 22-percent public float and market capitalization of P24.1 billion. Tan said the company would use

the proceeds from the IPO to fund its solar projects in the pipeline.

“We are delighted with the outcome of CREC’s initial public offering - a testament to strong investor confidence in our vision, plans and projects,” said CREC chairman Edgar Saavedra.

“Based on our experience, the IPO plays a significant role in shaping companies and our collaboration with the PSE and SEC now extends to three companies – Megawide, CREIT and CREC. The success of our latest listing motivates us to exceed expectations in fulfilling our commitment to regulators and investors,” he said.

Amaia Steps Pasig nears completion with topping-off ceremony

Amaia Steps Pasig said it held a topping-off ceremony for the Clara Building, its fourth and final residential mid-rise structure.

The topping-off ceremony marks a traditional milestone in construction, representing the completion of the building’s frame with the placement of the final structural beam.

Amaia Steps Pasig’s 464 units and amenities are now substantially complete, the company said. This means property seekers can get a better sense of the development and future resi-

dents can look forward to moving in soon.

Investors in Amaia Steps Pasig’s Clara Building can expect to realize their aspirations as they join a vibrant community.

The strikingly designed residential condominium is located in the bustling neighborhood of Eusebio Street in Barangay Miguel, Pasig City. It boasts of a strategic location that blends urban convenience with suburban tranquility.

Amaia Steps Pasig offers easy ac-

cess to major roads and highways, established schools, hospitals, and commercial centers. The development is conveniently situated less than six kilometers from the Ortigas Center business district and four kilometers from C5 Road. Envisioned for young professionals, students, entrepreneurs and starting families, the four-hectare modern mid-rise development offers a brief commute to various government offices and hospitals. It provides residents with both accessibility and a

serene retreat, featuring retail spaces at their doorsteps for everyday essentials.

Other amenities include a swimming pool, basketball court, playground, multipurpose hall, and landscaped gardens.

The Clara Building offers a variety of cozy unit options, including studios, deluxe units, and premier units, ranging from 23 to 42 square meters. Each unit is designed to cater to the needs of residents and their fast-paced lifestyles.

AirAsia PH launches piso sale for domestic, int’l destinations

By Darwin G. Amojelar

AIRASIA Philippines rolled out another round of piso sale for domestic and international destinations to attract more passengers to travel.

Passengers can book flights from Manila, Clark and Cebu to select AirAsia domestic destinations for P1 oneway base fare from June 8 to 16, 2024.

Flights from Manila to 11 international destinations can also be purchased from P1 to P2,811 one-way base fare for travel from Sept. 2, 2024, to Oct. 8, 2025.

“We are on a full throttle to support our guests’ travel plans this second half of 2024. Amidst various challenges such as the Level 6 Fuel Sur-

charge, inflation, and the weakening Peso, we are committed to provide the best deals to our guests by offering the lowest airfares and other affordable deals such as hotels and other activities which are available through our AirAsia MOVE app,” AirAsia communications and public affairs head Steve Dailisan said. AirAsia is also inviting guests to pair up their low-fare flight with hotel stays made affordable with huge discounts via the AirAsia MOVE app.

First Gen, Jollibee team up to install solar panels in 4 manufacturing sites

FIRST Gen Corp. of the Lopez Group teamed up with the Jollibee Group to install over 16,800 solar panels in its four main manufacturing sites in the Philippines.

The solar panels have a total capacity of over 9 megawatts (MW) in keeping with the Jollibee Group’s commitment to using renewable energy to the next level.

“This is a significant milestone in our sustainability journey at the Jollibee Group. These initiatives are more than just technological advancement, but more importantly a shared commitment to preserving our planet and furthering our collective responsibility to create a more sustainable future,” said Jollibee Group vice president and head of supply chain Michael Ong. The shift to renewable energy for the

Jollibee Group’s supply chain began in November 2023 with the powering up of its Zen3 facility in Canlubang, Laguna. The group added clean energy options to its largest manufacturing site, the Canlubang Baking Facility (CBF) as part of its continuing commitment. The two sites have a combined capacity of 5.05 MW.

Other solar-energized sites are the Jollibee Worldwide Services-Logistics (JWS-L) hub in Parañaque and the C3 manufacturing site in Laguna, which have a combined capacity of 4.05 megawatts.

All four facilities can reduce their power consumption from the grid by an average of 15 percent a year, a significant step towards a greener future.

Amaia Steps Pasig holds the topping-off ceremony for the Clara Building, its fourth residential mid-rise in the complex. The ceremony is a traditional milestone in the construction industry when the final structural beam is raised

UNISEX SLIDES. Best Buddies Philippines (BBP) and Banana Peel showcase a special celebration of fashion, friendship and inclusion during the ‘Slide Together Embrace Inclusion’ event at Robinsons Magnolia on May 18, 2024. The event unveiled the unique collection of unisex slides designed by Best Buddies British School Manila (BSM) chapter member Navine Gabriella Kuo Gatchalian. Gatchalian is a 17-year-old talented artist who was inspired by happy beach adventures with her family. First

Top PH mineral reserves rose 2% to P474 billion in 2023–PSA

THE monetary value of the country’s Class A gold, copper, nickel and chromite reserves increased 2 percent to P474.00 billion in 2023 from P464.51 billion in 2022, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Friday.

Class A reserves are commercially recoverable mineral resources confirmed to be economically viable by a defined development project or operation.

The PSA said Class A gold reserves were valued at P181.61 billion in 2023, an 11-percent increase from P163.67 billion in 2022 while the

DA to discuss priority projects at business forum

DEPARTMENT of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. will be the featured speaker at the “Up Close and Personal” business forum organized by the World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM) on June 18, 2024.

The event will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the WTCMM exhibition center in Pasay City. Laurel will present important updates on priority projects from his office focused on enhancing and expanding the country’s agricultural production.

“Up Close and Personal” is the flagship networking forum of WTCMM where eminent government personalities engage with the business community.

The event attracts top-level executives from various business sectors, embassies, government agencies, trade organizations, entrepreneurs from micro-, small-, and mediumsized enterprises and other industry stakeholders.

value of Class A copper reserves decreased 10.3 percent to P52.85 billion from P58.92 billion.

Class A nickel reserves declined 1.1 percent to P238.90 billion in 2023 from P241.43 billion in 2022 while Class A chromite reserves increased 33 percent to P645.90 million in 2023

from P485.79 million in 2022.

The PSA said the four minerals contributed 0.24 percent to the gross domestic product last year.

It said that in terms of volume, the Philippines’ stocks of Class A gold reserves declined 1.5 percent to 401,700 kilograms (kg.) in 2023 from 408,000 kg. in 2022.

However, gold production increased 0.4 percent to 21,480 kg. from 21,400 kg.

Class A copper reserves decreased 2.1 percent to 2.90 million metric tons (MT) in 2023 from 2.96 million MT

in 2022. Copper extraction increased 4.2 percent to 61,980 MT from 59,510 MT in 2022. Class A nickel reserves declined 6 percent to 484.73 million dry metric tons (DMT) in 2023 from 515.93 million DMT in 2022. This was attributed to a 6.7-percent increase in production, reaching 31.20 million DMT in 2023 from 29.23 million DMT in 2022.

Class A chromite reserves shrank 1.3 percent to 65.54 million MT in 2023 from 66.42 million MT in 2022, but production surged 416 percent to 23,820 MT from 16,820 MT.

GREENHOUSE VISIT. Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary for special concerns Jerome Oliveros and KOPIA Philippines Center director Kyu Seong Lee visit the sites of the ‘Pilot Village Project on Protective Cultivation and Postharvest Management of Vegetables. KOPIA is an official development assistance program of the Rural Development Administration (RDA), Korea’s largest agricultural research and development organization. The DA wants to propagate greenhouses all over the country to increase production and provide affordable agricultural commodities for consumers.

DA, DMW vow to help OFWs find livelihood in agriculture

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) Wednesday to help millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) find livelihood opportunities in the Philippines, specifically in the agriculture and agribusiness sectors.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco

Tiu Laurel said the DA and its attached bureaus and agencies are fully committed to promoting programs, projects and activities that cultivate prospective agri-preneurs.

“We pledge to offer technical assistance, agri-loan and credit services, agribusiness trainings, market linkage, and information materials. Our efforts will be harmonized with those of the DMW to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative,” he said at the signing of the MOU.

Nearly 10 percent of the Philippine population works abroad, sending billions in remittances that contribute to domestic spending and economic growth.

The DA said many OFWs face the challenge of separation from their loved ones. The program aspires to provide OFWs with betterpaying job opportunities to invest in Philippine businesses, allowing them to reunite with their families while securing a good future.

Aboitiz Data seeks to boost AI capabilities, expand in Southeast Asia

ABOITIZ Data Innovation (ADI) announced its target of expanding its capabilities in data science and artificial intelligence across Southeast Asia to foster innovation and growth across the region.

ADI said the challenges in deploying, developing, and delivering value from AI in the Philippines are the same as in neighboring markets in Southeast Asia. This provides an immense opportunity to bring ADI’s know-how and approaches in

making AI work to other countries in the region.

“ADI aims to help companies tailor AI solutions to their specific goals. While it’s impressive when one company succeeds with AI, our objective is to enable more companies to strengthen entire industries,” said ADI chief executive Dr. David Hardoon.

“With ADI’s data science and AI expertise, we plan to expand this capability from the Philippines and Sin-

By Roy Tomandao

HUSKEE Digital, a creator commerce marketing agency specializing in transforming stories into sales on TikTok and other platforms, launched TRENDS, its official training arm aimed at helping brands leverage TikTok for business growth.

The program offer intensive workshops designed to enhance marketing strategies and drive business success on the platform.

The launch comes amid increasing recognition of TikTok as a platform for driving business growth and how it revolutionized content creation for brands.

Leveraging years of expertise and a passion for innovation, Huskee Digital’s TRENDS provides brands with es-

sential technical guidance, content creation strategies, and consumer insights.

“We are thrilled to launch TRENDS and share our marketing insights on a larger scale. Our work on TikTok over the last few years has been significant for our clients, and our goal is to help more brands become media powerhouses on TikTok,” said Huskee Digital managing partner Miggy Azurin.

TRENDS addresses the need for businesses to adapt to evolving social media trends including social commerce, short-form video, and affiliate marketing. The training arm offers two key programs: ‘Become TikTokReady’ and ‘Launch Your Brand On TikTok Shop’.

PEEKUP, a new ride-hailing platform, on Friday announced a strengthened partnership with Google to further enhance its navigation and safety features for better experience.

The collaboration will bring significant advancements to PeekUp’s platform, benefiting users with several enhanced navigation and routing and improved location accuracy and data.

PeekUp will offer users even more precise location information and insights.

Other benefits include locationbased recommendations and enhanced safety and security (safety features will include real-time alerts for accidents, road closures, and other hazards, as well as the ability to share real-time location and other safety features for peace of mind.

“This strategic partnership is a testament to PeekUp’s commitment to providing our users with the best possible experience,” said Dave Almarinez, PeekUp founder and chief executive.

“By leveraging Google’s technology and expertise, we are able to deliver enhanced navigation, location accuracy, personalized recommendations, and increased safety features, ultimately creating a more convenient and secure platform for our users,” he said.

gapore to other Southeast Asian markets. By sharing our methods, ADI can help multiple organizations excel, transforming whole sectors across the region,” said Hardoon.

The US-ASEAN Business Council said AI could add $1 trillion to Southeast Asia’s GDP by 2030, representing an 18 percent increase. Recognizing this potential, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) released a regional guide on artificial intelligence gov-

ernance and ethics earlier this year, supporting its members as they increasingly embrace AI.

ADI said it started forging partnerships across the region to build its footprint. It teamed up with Cloudera to empower Asia Pacific’s financial services and industrial sectors with GenAI capabilities, followed by a partnership with Thailand’s REPCO NEX and AboitizPower to create the country’s first smart power plant.

Dominic Medenilla of Google; Anjusha Sandeep, principal architect of Google Maps; Jolly Ahuja, business lead of Google; Jayson Chua, co-founder and chief finance officer of PeekUp; Dave Almarinez, PeekUp founder and chief executive; Bernardo Abis, Webcast chief executive; Eric Perdigon; Sabrina Cua; and Jhoana Mondez celebrate

SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

SM cites role of businesses to promote sustainability

SM INVESTMENTS Corp., one of the country’s largest conglomerates employing over 130,000 people, acknowledging the role of the business sector to global efforts at sustainability and shared its practical and local approach towards a better future for people and planet at a recent ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) summit.

Addressing key professionals and various stakeholders, SM Investments consultant and head of investor relations and sustainability Timothy Daniels related how the SM Group builds its sustainability programs by identifying specific problems and opportunities from a local lens even as it adheres to global frameworks.

“With sustainability as a priority and given our nationwide footprint, we do sign up for many frameworks and reporting standards. But how we practice

sustainability is much more practical and on-the-ground,” Daniels said.

“We think of sustainability as something we do every day within the group and in how we operate our businesses. We look at what’s practical and material. Given the impact of our footprint, our actions are based on being responsible and in finding ways where we can make a difference to the Filipino and the unique ecosystems and risk environments of the country,” he said.

As SM expands its reach across the country, it has been able to tap into communities and identify issues most important to them. “It’s issues like helping in developing their communities, finding meaningful employment, gaining financial inclusion, being treated fairly, developing green habits, and having access to healthcare and education,” Daniels said.

Meralco, PSALM sign 90-MW supply deal

By Alena Mae S. Flores

POWER retailer Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) and state-run Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM) signed a 90-megawatt supply contract to help secure the former’s requirements.

PSALM president Dennis dela Serna said they started supplying power to Meralco on May 26 from the Kalayaan-Botocan hydro power plants.

Meralco was previously negotiating with PSALM for a 100-MW peaking capacity after its competitive

selection process (CSP) involving 260 MW failed, forcing the company to source from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market, where prices are more volatile.

Meralco was looking at a rate be based on ERC-approved time-of-use

DTI set to finalize agreement limiting student access to vapes

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Trade and Indus-

try (DTI) is finalizing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Department of Education (DepEd) and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to effectively limit student access to vape products.

It will ensure zero access to vape products by minors, particularly by prohibiting vaping, selling and advertising of vapes in areas frequented by minors like schools, playgrounds and similar locations.

The DTI and DepEd are working together to address the worrying increase in vaping among Filipino youth. The collaboration involves an education campaign to be led by the DepEd about the dangers of vaping, while the DTI is focused on the illegal sale of these products near schools.

The DTI said it is also teaming up with

the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to combat the disturbing trend of marijuana-laced vape products.

Its Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau will be tasked to identify and apprehend sellers of these illegal substances.

The DTI said it is also strengthening its partnership with the DILG and local government units (LGUs) in the National Capital Region to improve enforcement efforts.

Local enforcement teams will conduct joint vape enforcement operations, followed by efforts to establish a centralized and comprehensive LGU registry of licensed vape shops.

The DTI said to ensure a more effective nationwide enforcement strategy, the agency and the DILG are developing a unified enforcement protocol. The standardized approach will cover monitoring violators, sharing intelligence and coordinating enforcement activities among enforcement forces.

(TOU) rate under its contract with PSALM. It also started the CSP or bidding for 500 MW of mid-merit renewable energy (RE) capacity.

The 10-year power supply agreement (PSA) resulting from the CSP will cover Meralco’s 350-MW midmerit requirement starting February 2025, which will increase by 150MW beginning February 2026.

Meralco, through its bids and awards committee for PSAs, called on power generation companies to submit expressions of interest by June 7.

The pre-bid conference is scheduled on June 17, while the bid submission deadline is set on July 17.

Meralco said the conduct of the CSP is in compliance with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) policy on renewable portfolio standards (RPS) and forms part of the company’s commitment to source an increasing portion of its supply requirements from RE sources. RPS is a policy mechanism that requires electric power industry participants such as generators, distribution utilities and suppliers to source or produce a specified fraction of their electricity from eligible RE resources. It is set at 2.5 percent of electricity sales allocation for distribution utilities connected to the grid.

Batangas farmers stage rally in Makati to protest eviction from RCI haciendas

ments.

IN BRIEF

Filipinos spent 1.3b seconds in lending apps

FILIPINOS spent about 1.3 billion seconds — equivalent to 42 years — in

SOME 1,000 residents of Nasugbu, Batangas gathered at Makati’s Freedom Park on June 6 to protest the plans of Roxas and Company Inc. (RCI) to evict some 50,000 individuals from Haciendas Palico, Banilad and Kaylaway (Roxas Haciendas) covering up to 2,941 hectares in nine barangays.

Among the affected areas is Barangay Aga, where communities would be allegedly demolished to make way for RCI’s planned real estate development.

The group visited the head offices of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and RCI before proceeding to the head offices of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Land Bank of the Philippines

The delegation included officials of the local government unit of Nasugbu, Batangas led by vice mayor Mildred Sanchez, the Sangguniang Bayan members and barangay captains of the nine affected barangays.

(LBP), and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), to deliver copies of SB Resolution No. 118.

The measure calls on the BSP, LBP, DBP and BPI not to grant financial support or any extension of loans to RCI until such time that the firm settled its obligations with affected agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) over the disputed lands.

RCI had a total of P4 billion in loans as of March 31, 2024, according to RCI’s published financial state-

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Siemens Inc. of Germany signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) Friday to solidify their partnership in advancing Industry 4.0 and e-mobility in the Philippines.

“In 2019, we signed an MoU with DTI to strengthen collaboration and facilitate technical, policy, and information exchanges in driving the digital transformation of the manufacturing sector. I’m proud that this has resulted in a project for our Digital Industries business to conduct a feasibility study to conceptualize DTI’s Industry 4.0 Pilot Factory in 2022,” said Siemens ASEAN president and chief executive Thai Lai Pham.

BPI voiced its “appreciation” for the LGU’s efforts, noting that “BPI will seriously consider the contents of the SB Resolution 118, especially the concern of your Sangguniang Bayan for the farmers of your good town in the conduct of its business in the area.”

Land Bank, DBP and BSP said they would meet with the Nasugbu LGU to discuss the contents of SB Resolution 118.

The MOU at the Siemens Advance Manufacturing Transformation Center in Singapore was the second between the two countries that specifically calls for the establishment of the Industry 4.0 pilot factory.

The facility will showcase digital and automation technologies that manufacturing companies, particularly micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) can access and leverage.

Siemens and DTI will also explore developing use cases of artificial intelligence (AI) applied in critical manufacturing sectors such as food and beverage, electronics, semiconductors, chemicals and automotive. Othel V. Campos

TECH Acer SpatialLabs Eyes Stereo Camera captures experiences in Stereoscopic 3D

TAIPEI—Acer launched the SpatialLabs Eyes

Stereo camera, its latest addition to its range of SpatialLabs 3D devices.

The compact 3D camera can be used by photographers to capture stunning and stereoscopic images and view these in immersive 3D as it fully integrates with the SpatialLabs lineup of products.

“The SpatialLabs Eyes Stereo Camera completes Acer’s stereoscopic 3D portfolio, providing solutions from content capturing and creation, to display and interaction,” said Jerry Kao, COO, Acer Inc. “We hope to empower users to capture the world around them in stunning stereoscopic 3D through the new camera and we’re excited to see the possibilities and the amazing content they will be able to create and share.” Modern Design, Intuitive Point and Shoot Anywhere and Everywhere With 8 megapixels per eye resolution, a built-in selfie mirror, and a weatherproof exterior, the pocketsized Acer SpatialLabs Eyes Stereo Camera is a great companion for capturing moments outdoors and during adventures. Its intuitive setup enhances shooting experiences with carefully calibrated lens alignment and an advanced optical system to photograph subjects with greater 3D depth and detail. For effortless image taking, SpatialLabs Eyes is equipped with auto and touch focus capabilities, further enhanced with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) for smooth and steady footage. More seasoned photographers will appreciate the option for manual mode which provides flexibility to calibrate ISO, white balance, and shutter speed settings for better control of image output.

The camera’s outer material is

glossed with a shale black coat, while its lens cap and selfie mirror enclosures are layered with aluminum lining to present a sophisticated look and feel. With its sleek appearance and innovative features, the Acer SpatialLabs Eyes Stereo Camera has earned the praise of design experts and received the prestigious 2024 Red Dot and iF Design Awards. Beyond Snapshots: 3D Streaming and Video Calls in Real-time The SpatialLabs 3D Camera goes beyond just capturing stunning images and videos in 3D. It enables real-time

3D streaming and storytelling, letting users share their 3D content live on YouTube and other streaming platforms with the new Acer SpatialLabs Player 3.0. Video chatting will be available through the SpatialLabs video call widget in Q3 that enables more engaging, high-resolution 3D video conferencing on apps such as Teams (1080p), Zoom (720p), and Google Meet (1080p), with customizable depth features available to add more layers of realism during calls. Whether users are reviewing content on Acer SpatialLabs laptops or

PLDT Enterprise enhances connectivity for Comelec

ILOILO CITY—PLDT Enterprise, the corporate business arm of PLDT, has once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting government operations by enhancing internet services across Comelec field offices in Region 6. This initiative is part of a broader collaboration aimed at ensuring robust and reliable connectivity to facilitate free, orderly, and credible elections in the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental.

In 2023, PLDT Enterprise responded to a crucial need within Comelec Region 6, which faced challenges in maintaining effective communication and timely reporting across its field offices due to inadequate internet resources. By deploying Enterprise Broadband Static from PLDT Enterprise, these offices are now equipped to handle their daily operations more efficiently, enhancing the overall electoral process.

“Ensuring seamless and secure communication within Comelec’s regional operations is imperative, es-

field o ices in Region 6

pecially right before, during, and after the election period,” said Ma. Hazel D. Amoyan, Business Head at PLDT Enterprise. “Our partnership with Comelec Region 6 is a reflection of PLDT Enterprise’s dedication to supporting

key government functions, ensuring that every phase of the election process is underpinned by reliable and highspeed connectivity.”

PLDT’s fiber optic infrastructure supports a multitude of tasks essential

DAMO Academy partners with WHO

DAMO Academy, Alibaba Group’s research institute, has announced its partnership with the WHO Collaborating Center on Digital Health to advance innovations in digital health and bring the benefits of medical AI to more developing countries.

As the first of its kind in the Western Pacific region, the WHO Collaborating Center on Digital Health supports WHO in digital health information exchange, scientific research, inter-

Acer SpatialLabs Eyes Stereo Camera has been awarded the 2024 RedDot and iF Design Awards for its innovative design, features, and

which is fully compatible with SpatialLabs Pro devices, is also set to be launched. The application is designed to enhance the 3D content workflow and user experiences with new features tailored for commercial usability. Paired with its support for major 3D file formats and enhanced support on glTF, the new presentation mode enables developers to inspect, customize, and showcase a catalog of models in sequence for viewing and customizations without the need to develop projects from scratch. The application includes

displays, VR/AR headsets, or even 3D projectors, the SpatialLabs Eyes helps present the richness and impact of their 3D content as intended. The camera also comes with a downloadable gallery feature so users can look back at their 3D portfolio and re-experience their immersive 3D journey.

New Range of Developer Tools for 3D Content and Applications Acer has also announced an expanded array of developer tools, including the SpatialLabs Unreal 5.3 and Unity 2021.3 LTS and 2022.3 LTS plug-ins. These will be available to 3D creators starting in June.

In addition, the new SpatialLabs Model Viewer Pro application,

to Comelec, including updating voter databases, internal communications, and dissemination of election-related information. This enhanced connectivity is pivotal for Comelec Region 6, allowing them to manage data effectively and collaborate seamlessly across various municipalities.

Atty. Dennis Ausan, Regional Election Director of Comelec Region 6, remarked, “The support from PLDT Enterprise has been instrumental in transforming the way our offices operate. High-speed internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity for conducting transparent and efficient elections. Through this partnership, our field offices are better equipped than ever to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.”

As digital transformation continues to be a priority for organizations across the Philippines, PLDT Enterprise remains at the forefront, driving innovation and reliability in digital solutions. This commitment is in line with the Philippine government’s digitalization thrust and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

For businesses and government agencies looking to elevate their operations through enhanced digital solutions, PLDT Enterprise offers a range of digital solutions designed to optimize efficiency, continuity, and connectivity.

to advance medical AI

national standards, and technical training with its member countries.

The launching ceremony of the strategic partnership between the WHO Collaborating Centre On Digital Health and Alibaba DAMO Academy takes place at the AI for Good Global Summit, the leading United Nations platform promoting AI to advance health and other global development priorities, held in Geneva on May 30th.

Under the partnership, they will leverage their respective resources to conduct research and provide advisory in the fields of digital health, artificial intelligence, and industrial development to support international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the International Telecommunication Union.

Given the interdisciplinary nature of AI and digital health, they will also jointly conduct training related to medicine, engineering, digital health, artificial intelligence, industrial development, and other areas to help both parties cultivate professional talents with comprehensive capabilities in the field of digital health.

The WHO Collaborating Center on Digital Health will also leverage its resources to help DAMO

Academy bring the benefits of medical AI to more developing countries, actively advance the international outreach of digital health, and promote health and wellness through technology.

“In forging this partnership with the WHO Collaborating Center on Digital Health, DAMO Academy embarks on a mission to make the benefits of medical AI accessible to those in need. Together, we aim to improve healthcare for those in need through the advancements in medical AI development and digital health accessibility,” said Le Lu, Head of DAMO Academy’s medical AI team.

“By pooling our collective expertise and leveraging cutting-edge AI technology, we are set to drive transformation in digital health, especially for developing countries. Our collaboration symbolizes not just a shared vision but a joint commitment to harnessing digital innovations to foster global health and wellness,” said Shan Xu, Head of the WHO Collaborating Centre on Digital Health.

The medical AI team at DAMO Academy is collaborating with top global medical institutions to explore cost-effective and efficient new methods for multi-cancer screening using AI technology.

features such as adding a virtual turntable, overlays with their desired logos, and backgrounds, as well as customizations with their preferred HDRI. This also makes it an ideal solution for 3D installations in showrooms and professional presentations. For more details, please visit the SpatialLabs developer site.

Pricing and Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com. Visit Acer’s Media Center for product images and specifications, or visit the Acer News site to see all announcements.

Concentrix drone show at Family Day concert

CONCENTRIX (Nasdaq: CNXC), a global technology and services leader, launched its new brand positioning and became the first in the customer experience (CX) industry to host a drone show in the country. The show took place in what is considered the country’s biggest employee-focused multi-event series in which the company invests hundreds of millions of pesos each year, the Concentrix Family Day. Sunday’s #OneFAMNation Musicfest was one of 11 locationbased events nationwide. Aside from the drone show, the concert saw bands Parokya ni Edgar, Silent Sanctuary and P-pop group BILIB perform in front of thousands of Concentrix game-changers and their loved ones.

“We are human-centered, techpowered and intelligence-fueled. Concentrix continues to put our clients and game-changers at the center of everything we do. This commitment remains the same and anchors the ways in which we provide experiences that go beyond ‘WOW’ while also driving tech advancements,” said Amit Jagga, EVP and Country Leader for Concentrix. Speaking to the media ahead of the Family Day Musicfest, Amit considers the combination of launching the company’s new logo in a firstfor-the-industry drone activation within an annual company tradition, a huge milestone.

“We continue to make investments that recognize the contributions of our people who are the driving force of our business, as well as those for whom they give their best every day. The drone show which revealed our new logo is a testament to Concentrix’s human-centered, tech-led approach: blending fresh and modern innovation with entertainment to create an unforgettable experience for our people,” he further remarked.

Shown here are (from left) Annabelle D. Tolentino, Relationship Manager at PLDT Enterprise; Kent De La Calzada, Corporate Relationship Management Head for Visayas at PLDT Enterprise; Atty. Dennis L. Ausan, Regional Election Director of COMELEC Region 6; and Atty. Tomas S. Valera, Assistant Election Director of COMELEC Region 6, formalize the partnership that enhances connectivity across electoral o ces, ensuring robust and reliable communication for upcoming elections.

The Acer SpatialLabs Eyes Stereo Camera is designed for photographers, allowing them to capture and view stereoscopic images in immersive 3D with compatibility with Acer’s SpatialLabs suite of devices.

The

usability.

Doctor at a hospital in Lishui city of China’s Zhejiang province examines a CT scan

SmarTrade o ers free learning sessions on management of finances

LEARNING how to manage your money is key to improving your finances. However, money management isn’t always a straightforward affair. If you’re unsure where to begin, seek help from trusted experts to guide you on the road towards achieving your financial goals.

SmarTrade, an advocate of financial literacy for Filipinos, offers free learning sessions and one-on-one coaching on various financial topics including the essentials of money management and trading fundamentals.

“We believe in empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective money management,” said Joyce Mayo, President and CEO of SmarTrade.

When it comes to money management, the first step is to set clear financial goals. With a target in mind, you can then work on reducing your debt, boosting your savings, cutting back on unnecessary expenses, and exploring investment options such as forex, gold, stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.

“For our clients who want to take it one step further and try their hand in online trading, we also offer more advanced learning sessions and one-on-one coaching, all for free, to help our clients navigate the complexities of the forex market,” added Mayo.

Free courses offered by SmarTrade, conducted by its team of experienced market analysts, include “Mastering Online Trading: Effective Money Management Strategies and MT4 Platform Navigation” and “Technical and Fundamental Analysis”.

Offered year-round, SmarTrade’s five-part webinar series ‘Technical and Fundamental Analysis’ is suitable for both novice and seasoned traders.

The first course covers the basics about money management, risk management, and MT4 platform navigation, ideal for beginners and those looking to enhance their online trading skills. These sessions are available through weekly webinars and weekend face-to-face learning sessions in Makati and various provinces.

The “Technical and Fundamental Analysis” course is a five-part webinar series that delves into price patterns, indicators, candlestick patterns, oscillators, trading signals, trading psychology, and creating effective trading plans. Suitable for both novice and seasoned traders, this series is available year-round.

This June, SmarTrade launched a one-day intensive online trading workshop led by SmarTrade’s resident Market Analyst, Gab Santos and Head of Learning and Development, Edwin Saguibo. Details can be found on SmarTrade’s website and official social media accounts. Additionally, SmarTrade, in partnership with globally-acclaimed online broker ATFX, ensures clients have access to the right tools and resources for trading. This collaboration is designed to equip clients with a robust platform for forex trading, offering access to a wide range of currencies and financial instruments.

Soon-to-launch realme C65 certified future-proof

THE highly anticipated realme C65 will hit Philippine shelves on June 13.

A standout among other devices in its segment, the realme C65 has a 48-month Fluency Rating and Low Blue Light Certification granted by TÜV Rheinland, a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification services.

realme has gone the extra mile with the realme C65, so it’s not just an average smartphone - it’s a device the Squad can rely on for its solid build quality, innovative features, and sustainable use. Here’s why:

It feels brand new even after four years

The realme C65 has completed a series of comprehensive tests to determine its peak capacity. As a result, the TÜV SÜD 48-Month Fluency Rating is a game-changer for those who depend heavily on their devices.

This certification ensures that the realme C65 will

maintain its performance when properly cared for, ensuring a smooth user experience for at least four years, even as newer models enter the market.

The Squad can look forward to an enjoyable smartphone experience with fewer crashes and less frequent upgrades, making it a sustainable choice that doesn’t compromise performance.

It has Low Blue Light for better eye care

Screen time is virtually unavoidable, exposing individuals to blue light emitted by various devices. According to experts, prolonged exposure can lead to eye strain, disrupted sleep, and visual discomfort.

Luckily, the realme C65 provides a simple solution with its TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light Certification. Compared to standard devices, the realme C65 emits lower levels of blue light, reducing the adverse effects of screen time and making it safer and more comfortable.

It has all the Real Essentials

Real Essentials are realme’s latest features that optimize the user experience. These dedicated functions on the realme C65 are tailor-made to enhance and streamline users’ ability to maximize

their device’s capabilities.

The Real Essentials include hands-free Air Gestures controls, a customizable Dynamic Button, interactive Mini Capsule 2.0, Rainwater Smart Touch, a quick and easy Smart Code Scan, Customized Lowest Brightness, AI Boost for performance, and an easy UI interface during Riding Mode.

Together, these innovative features make the realme C65 a versatile smartphone that adapts to any lifestyle, making everyday tasks simpler and more efficient.

A wise investment

The realme C65 is expertly crafted to deliver top-tier, high-quality performance. With its versatile features, this smartphone offers exceptional value for money compared to other devices in its segment.

For savvy shoppers such as Millennials and Gen Zs who prioritize value in every purchase, the realme C65 is a wise investment. It offers the best value for their money and assures a reliable, long-lasting companion for years.

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

Cebu City revolutionizes emergency response, public safety capability with NGA 911 partnership

CEBU City’s local government has taken a giant step in bringing its public safety and security infrastructure to next-generation, worldclass standards.

Mayor Mike Rama and Vice Mayor Alvin Garcia (Acting Mayor) have spearheaded a transformative partnership with NGA 911, LLC, an American company renowned for its pioneering 911 services across the United States. The company stands at the forefront of innovation, harnessing cutting-edge Next Generation technology to revolutionize emergency response systems. With state-ofthe-art capabilities, NGA911’s systems empower responders to swiftly receive calls, pinpoint caller locations, execute dispatch operations, and seamlessly integrate with

Cebu City’s existing infrastructure, including CCTV networks. This integration promises a unified, digital platform, ensuring efficient, recorded responses to emergencies as they happen.

The introduction of Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities by the NGA system will revolutionize how Cebu City residents can access emergency responders. Besides using traditional mobile and landline calls to report emergencies, citizens will soon be

able to do the same via SMS and instant messaging applications, expanding the accessibility and speed of emergency response services.

Dante V. Arcilla Jr., Department Head of MICS (Management Information and Computer Services) who made a meticulous analysis and evaluation of the system greatly influenced Cebu City’s decision to partner with NGA 911. “Through this collaboration, the city aims to meet not only its current but also future technological requirements, bolstering its capacity to respond rapidly and robustly to crises. By integrating NGA 911’s systems with our existing emergency infrastructure, we anticipate heightened resilience and redundancy in disaster scenarios, as well as enhanced situational awareness for our first re-

sponders,” the MICS head said. Mayor Mike Rama has always emphasized the importance of public safety and has made it paramount in the city’s agenda. “Ensuring the safety of our residents is our top priority,” Mayor Rama said. Mr. Arcilla echoed the sentiment, saying, “This partnership will not only raise public safety standards but also spur economic growth. With enhanced safety measures, tourism will flourish, consumer confidence will rise, and businesses will be encouraged to invest in our city.”

As Cebu City marches towards a safer, more technologically adept future, the partnership with NGA 911 stands as a testament to its commitment to safeguarding its citizens and fostering prosperity, city officials said.

Young Filipino student roboteers win in 9th PH Robothon Competition

THE country’s brightest, most techsavvy young minds won big in the 9th Philippine Robothon Competition 2024 co-organized by First Eduspec Inc. and Rex Education at St. Paul College Pasig on recently. The competition, the most prestigious robotics-related showcase in the country today, was aptly themed, “F.U.T.U.R.E.: Filipinos in Unified Technologies, Unveiling Robotics Excellence; Pagtanaw sa Ating Ambisyon Tungo sa Matatag na Edukasyon.”

It gave young Filipino innovators a fitting platform to show their expertise in robotics, a field becoming increasingly important in today’s society. The ninth edition, like its predecessors, allowed the student participants not only to demonstrate their various technical skills when it comes to robotics but also their ability to create innovative solutions to pressing community issues.

St. Paul College Pasig (Primary), Las Piñas Montessori School (Middle), Brokenshire College Toril (Junior), and Grace Christian College (Senior) were adjudged champions in the different mini-robot challenge categories. De La Salle University Integrated School (Middle) and Immaculate ConceptionGreenhills (High School), on the other hand, were hailed as the big winners in the two innovative open categories.

The competition gave young Filipino innovators a tting platform to show their expertise in robotics, a eld becoming increasingly important in today’s society.

Aside from the contest proper, another highlight of the 9th Philippine Robothon Competition was the seminarworkshop titled “Unlocking Learner’s Potential through STEAM Education.” This conference gathered some of the country’s best, most innovative experts in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math—including Mr. Gino Luayon, School Head at the Domuschola International School; Ms. Vilma Clerigo, Principal at San Beda College Alabang; and Mr. Paolo Josef

Blando, Program and Partnership Development Officer, The National Teacher’s College—to discuss the growing importance of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education in the modern-day curriculum and how to unlock students’ potential in these fields. STEAM, of course, is a critical component of 21st-century education because at its very core is the enhancement of vital future-proof skills like problem-solving, data gathering

and analysis, evidence assessment, and technical and technological know-how. The same skills are expected to have premium value in this present-day context marked by rapid advancements in technology and heightened complexity. This is why introducing young Filipinos to STEAM early is crucial, and this was the overriding goal of this seminar-workshop co-organized by First Eduspec Inc. and Rex Education—to unlock the full potential of learners with innovative approaches to teaching and learning.

First Eduspec Inc., a global leader in offering innovative, technology-based educational solutions and services, and Rex Education, one of the country’s leading publishers of academic materials, are committed to promoting and supporting STEAM education nationwide. Rex Education has been relentless in promoting STEAM education in the Philippines, incorporating the latest pedagogies and learning strategies in its comprehensive portfolio of scholastic materials and holding various events championing STEAM education and quality education, in general. Partnering with First Eduspec Inc. for the 9th Philippine Robothon Competition, Rex Education reaffirms its mission of nurturing every child for lifelong learning. REX is for every child, every roboteer, for life.

The realme C65’s well-rounded features prove that it is the only phone you’ll need for years to come.

SHOWBIZ

Love’s not a straight line

Liza Diño and Ice Seguerra star in groundbreaking LGBTQIA+ play

By Nickie Wang

IN CELEBRATION of LGBT Pride Month, prominent LGBTQIA+ couple Liza Diño and Ice Seguerra are headlining a play titled Choosing (Not A Straight Play) . Dr. Anton Juan directs the two-person act, which will premiere at the Power Mac Spotlight Blackbox Theater, Circuit, Makati.

Choosing (Not A Straight Play) , according to Dr. Juan, promises to deliver a compelling “story about love” that transcends gender.

The play, penned by Diño with additional monologues by Seguerra, draws deeply from their personal journeys and the broader experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The original production delves into themes of identity, love, and the courage to remain true to oneself, while also touching on seldomdiscussed topics such as the challenges faced by couples undergoing medical transitions.

“This landmark production is expected to challenge perspectives and foster a greater understanding and celebration of diverse human experiences.

The main conflict in Choosing is a trans couple’s decision about whether they’re ready for a medical transition,” said Diño during the

play’s intimate press conference. She elaborated on the story, explaining why there’s a need for it to be told: “This is something that’s not often discussed, even among supportive couples. I am extremely supportive of my spouse’s identity as a trans man, and I celebrate that. But we are both afraid of the unknown that comes after the transition.”

Seguerra emphasized the importance of representation and understanding in their narrative.

THAI officials have given Jurassic World producers a stern warning not to damage beaches and national parks when they film the next installment of the blockbuster franchise in the country. Hollywood superstar Scarlett Johansson has reportedly been lined up to star in the seventh movie in the long-running dinosaur series.

Shooting for parts of the movie – as yet untitled but slated for release next year – will take place in Bangkok and at national parks in Krabi, Phuket, Phang-nga, and Trang, starting next week and running into July. Locations include the lush island of Ko Kradan off the kingdom’s west coast and Huay To waterfall in Khao Phanom Bencha National Park.

Natural Resources and Environment Phatcharavat Wongsuwan Thailand was “honored” to host the filming. “However, it is strictly required that they comply with relevant laws and regulations, and must not affect and damage natural resources and the environment,” Phatcharavat said in a statement posted Wednesday on the Department of National Parks Facebook page.

The warning comes more than two decades after Leonardo DiCaprio ’s backpacker thriller The Beach drew widespread criticism for its impact on the pristine sands of Maya Bay, on the island

“Because of this story, you get some shared experiences that somehow make people understand the challenges trans people face daily,” he explained.

The OPM icon also addressed the intention behind the play, clarifying:

“These are stories that should be told. We are not trying to be controversial; that’s not the intention.”

Seguerra also expressed the significance of sharing such personal stories with a broader

“We wanted to share this story because we believe that stories like these, which are normally not discussed, need to be brought to light. Many people will be able to say, ‘I’m not alone; I’ve gone through that too.’ Knowing that you’re not experiencing this alone and that it’s a shared experience can actually make you feel better,” Seguerra underscored.

“We’re sharing a part of our souls with the audience.

It’s about the journey to find love, acceptance, and happiness in our society,” Diño added.

The couple said that they hope this play will help people understand the experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community.

“In this play,

trees to give a more “tropical” feel to the bay and were accused of ripping up vegetation growing on sand dunes.

Athapol Charoenshunsa , head of the Department of National Parks, said they had learned from past experience and officials will Jurassic Michael novel and directed by , was a colossal Jurassic

journalist Atom Araullo takes on the once-in-a-lifetime challenge of becoming a student pilot for the episode of I-Witness titled “Pangarap na Paglipad,” airing tonight at 10:15.

For three days, Atom goes through ground classes and tedious training in Dumaguete with one goal in mind – to be able to fly and pilot a plane. As he immerses as a

Real life lovers Liza Diño (left) and Ice Seguerra star in the two-person play by Dr. Anton Juan

‘Choosing (Not A Straight Play)’ will explore narratives from the LGBTQIA+ community

The play tackles challenges faced by couples who are undergoing medical transitions that are rarely being talked about

‘Choosing (Not A Straight Play)’ director Dr. Anton Juan (center) with actors Ice Seguerra and Liza Diño

How Slater Young pushed the envelope in architecture and design

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

Wwork means we were doing the right things,” he added.

Young’s controversial design takes home the jury award for Unbuilt - Multi-Unit Housing (L>10 Floors) at the Architizer A+ Awards 2024

HEN Slater Young announced his real estate project, The Rise at Monterrazas, last August, it drew an unexpected controversy. Nestled on a mountainside and inspired by the Banaue Rice Terraces, this ambitious condominium project faced a wave of environmental concerns from netizens.

Slater, an engineer and media personality, found himself in the challenging position of addressing these concerns head-on.

“At first, I was shocked, but it was a learning experience for us. Maybe this project was not really meant to happen, but eventually, I realized that the concerns they were raising were the same concerns we raised during the planning stage of the project,” Slater told Manila Standard Life following their prestigious Architizer A+Awards 2024 win.

The Rise at Monterrazas emerged victorious among entries from over 80 countries, winning the jury award for Unbuilt - Multi-Unit Housing (L >10 Floors) at the 12th edition of Architizer A+Awards. This award, one of the most significant accolades in architecture, celebrates the best architecture and spaces of the year. Winners will be featured in the upcoming edition of “The World’s Best Architecture” and the A+List, a definitive guide to the year’s best architecture and design firms.

“Winning this award is important because it puts the spotlight on Filipino architects and talents. But this was totally unexpected, to be honest. We just submitted our entry knowing it was a long shot to even be recognized because we were competing against 80 countries with big, high-profile developers and architects who win all the time,” the 40-year-old entrepreneur said.

“We won an award for sustainability. When it comes to our approach to sustainability, it’s an incredible feeling that an international body checking our

HOW does technology benefit the finance and lending sector, as well as Filipinos in this day and age?

This question was posed and answered by distinguished guests who are top officials in their respective industries in a recent online forum organized by the Fintech Philippines Association. Attendees from the business and academic sectors listened as Global Dominion Financing Inc.’s (GDFI) chief HR officer, Don Matias, South Asialink Finance Corporation’s (SAFC) Digital Process Innovation head, Seve Linis, and PLDT Enterprise’s Corporate Business Head, Joyce Abegail “AJ” Villanueva, discussed the significance of digital innovation vital to their respective companies’ growth and to the country as a whole.

The growth of the Philippines’ Gross Domestic Product by 5.6 percent in 2023 also led to an upsurge in various sectors.

In the last quarter of 2023, financial and insurance activities grew by 11.8 percent, driven largely by the 13.4 percent expansion of banking institutions.

Matias revealed that GDFI started 2023 with 719 employees and ended with 1003, maintaining an attrition rate of 2.84 percent.

The project drew inspiration from the Banaue Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, aiming to complement rather than oppose the natural terrain of Guadalupe in Cebu. This vision, however, was met with a barrage of misinformation and environmental concerns from the public.

“A lot of comments were coming from a lot of misinformation. This project is new in the country, which is why there were fears. They were coming from a place of concern,” Slater explained. “If this project was done outside the Philippines, say in Singapore, I don’t think there would be too many questions.”

“We need to push the envelope forward and actually prove that we Filipinos are capable of accomplishing something of this level of artistry and innovation. We talked to the United Architects of the Philippines, and these were the same issues discussed,” Slater said.

One primary concern was the project’s environmental impact, specifically the fear of deforestation.

“The place is a residential area. It’s 15 minutes from Ayala Center Cebu. If you put that context in Manila, it’s 15 minutes from Makati,” Slater explained.

The developers took these concerns seriously, delaying the project to ensure compliance with environmental standards. They enrolled in the BERDE program of the Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC), part of the World Green Building Council, to certify the sustainability of the project.

“There’s no forest to cut down. We hired green consultants to document the species in the area to ensure no flora and fauna would be affected by the project. We approached this with a clear conscience,” Slater stated.

Despite the financial risks and challenges, the developers remained committed to their vision.

“Our sense of mission deepened. We’re inspired to do more projects like this. What keeps us going, even during the whole issue, is receiving messages from renowned architects that we are doing the right thing, that we are pushing architecture forward,” Slater shared noting that the messages came from the people they look up to.

The Rise at Monterrazas is just the latest in Slater’s series of innovative projects. His other ventures include producing lightweight and eco-friendly concrete and educating homeowners through his YouTube channel. In 2021, he partnered with 8990, a successful low-cost housing developer, to form The Mont Property Group. Together, they aim to create globally recognized, proudly Filipino products, pushing forward local artistry and design.

“We want to be your Monique Lhuillier, we want to be your Cary Santiago,” Slater said, referencing renowned Cebuano fashion designers. “Dapat Pinoy, dapat yung tipong may gagaya sa atin. Gusto naming may gagaya sa atin

Slater is grateful for the support of his partners and board of directors, who have embraced the project’s ambitious vision.

“They can say, this is too ambitious, let’s go for the tried and tested, but our agreement was, we should be different. It has to push something forward, it has to strike a chord and it has to say, ‘Kaya pala natin ‘to as Pinoy,” Slater concludes.

“In growing a company, it is a must that the employees should grow,” explained Matias. “We provided 100 technical courses regardless of the level. The growth meant 92.3 percent in terms of internal promotions and in doing so, saw more than 300 job openings become available to the company.”

Linis also stressed SAFC’s improved asset management interface, emphasizing an easy-access website experience and enhanced online visibility as keys to their growth in the past calendar year.

During her segment, Villanueva highlighted that the PLDT group provides vital services and solutions that significantly improve the lives of Filipinos and businesses alike.

All three guests stressed that technological innovation is constant and relevant in their services and plays a large role in everyday life.

The forum, as Fintech host Aian Guanzon added, serves as a platform for attendees to learn how financing and lending impact and enhance their lives.

Linis summed up the forum’s significance, “Having discussions and associations like this is a platform to share knowledge and technologies and solutions that address common challenges from compliance, regulation, and fraud among others. And finding what technology works best with your company.”

According to Guanzon, the next Financing and Lending forum will focus on regulatory compliance.

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer Writer

The Rise at Monterrazas takes inspiration from the Banaue Rice Terraces

Social media personality and engineer Slater Young was met with controversy when he first shared his ambitious project

The condominium project is one of Young’s innovative projects