Manila Standard - 2024 June 9 - Sunday

DEEP, MAN-MADE DEPRESSIONS IN ESCODA SHOAL – SCIENTISTS

PORAC POGO HUB LIKELY INVOLVED IN LOVE SCAMS

PNP TRACES TIES TO BAMBAN POGO OPERATION

By Charles Dantes

THE POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga is believed to be involved in “love scams” and may have links to another POGO hub in Bamban, Tarlac, authorities said over the weekend.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said its agents seized hundreds of cellphones, computers, SIM cards, and pocket Wi-Fi devices inside the raided Lucky South 99 Compound.

“These operations often involve ‘love scams’ where victims are led to believe they are communicating with a beautiful woman. She then introduces them to cryptocurrencies, and once they invest, the per-

son disappears the next day,” PAOCC Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz said.

The Philippine National Police said the raided compound might likewise be linked to a POGO hub in Bamban.

Police said documents confiscated in Tarlac included Lucky South 99 Compound as one of many companies linked to the illegal operations of Zun Yuan Technology Inc.

Last March 13, authorities raided a 10-hectare area operated by Zun Yuan Technology Inc. and found several devices linked to POGO operations. Over 600 Filipinos and foreigners were rescued during the raid.

Suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo was found to be the incorporator of Baofu Land Development Inc. that owns the land where the POGO complex is located. Additionally, PAOCC agents recovered alleged torture devices, such as metal sticks and baseball bats, which may have been used on a torture victim rescued, from the Porac last Tuesday.

On Friday, authorities rescued a foreigner with bruises on his body from one of the padlocked rooms within the POGO hub. According to the victim, they tortured him with a baseball bat because he wanted to resign.

MARCOS HALTS, ORDERS REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE BONUS SYSTEMS

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Marcos suspended the Results-Based Performance Management System (RBPMS) and Performance-Based Incentive (PBI) System in government and ordered a review of the two to harmonize and streamline the cash bonus systems.

Executive Order No. 61 suspended Administrative Order No. 25 that established a unified RBPMS and EO No. 80 which in -

troduced the PBI System, including the Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI) and the Performance-Based Bonus (PBB).

“The implementation of AO No. 25 (s. 2011) and EO No. 80 (s. 2012), and all other relevant issuances related thereto, is hereby suspended immediately pending review of the RBPMS and PBI System,” the EO read. The President, in the order, noted these systems have become redundant and burden -

some due to overlapping regulations and a lack of a review mechanism.

“It makes compliance burdensome, bureaucratic, laborious, and time-consuming for government agencies,” the Presidential Communications Office said.

“It is imperative to streamline, align and harmonize the RBPMS and PBI System with ease of doing business initiatives, and reform the government performance evaluation process

and incentives system towards a more responsive, efficient, agile and competent bureaucracy,” the President said in EO No. 61.

A Technical Working Group (TWG) will be formed and chaired by the budget secretary and co-chaired by the executive secretary, with members including the finance and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) secretaries and the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) director general.

BANS IMPORTED DOMESTIC, WILD BIRDS FROM AUSTRALIA DUE TO AVIAN FLU

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) temporarily banned the importation of domestic and wild birds from Australia following outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strains H7N3 and H7N9 in Victoria.

The outbreaks were reported to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) on May 23, 2024, in Meredith and on May 25 in Terang—both in the state of Victoria in Australia. The Australian Center for Disease Preparedness confirmed the outbreak.

According to DA Memorandum Order No. 21, the ban applies to all live birds, poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs, and semen. The Bureau of Animal Industry

(BAI) will also suspend issuing sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPSIC) for these products from Australia. Shipments already in transit, loaded, or accepted at port before the official communication to Australia are exempt, provided those products were slaughtered or produced on or before May 9, 2024. Australia is a significant source of poultry for the Philippines, ranking fourth for chicken meat with aggregated imports of 5,365 metric tons (MT) and third for mechanically deboned meat (MDM) at 4,162 MT as of April 2024.

The Philippines previously imported 46,987 day-old chicks and 30,780 hatching eggs from Australia.

By Charles Dantes

MARINE scientists found depressions or sunken areas that appear to be man-made on the ocean floor of Escoda Shoal, also called Sabina Shoal, that led to a “local extinction” of corals in the area in the West Philippine Sea. Jonathan Anticamara of the University of the Philippines Institute of Biology said the depressions were “a little bit deeper” and appeared to have been formed through “not a natural process.” and someone might have excavated the ocean floor for sampling purposes, usually of corals.

“That’s not a natural process. That kind of excavation was a little bit deeper – they took corals from the ocean floor. So, I think that’s really man-made,” he said during a news forum in Quezon City on Saturday.

“[It’s] a little bit worrying because of the extensive damage of corals under water,” Anticamara said. He said some Chinese divers were spotted earlier by the Philippine Coast Guard in the area.

“So, what happened to Sabina Shoal is kind of disastrous because many of the foundation species, we call them corals or habitat-forming species, are completely dead in the shallow waters,” he said.

“This is really like local extinction. This is what we’re talking about now – which is the biggest problem humanity is facing – biodiversity loss,” he added.

Anticamara’s evaluation followed a two-day scientific mission carried out with the PCG on Tuesday and Wednesday to assess the condition of the corals in the region.

However, Anticamara stopped short at confirming there was reclamation activity in Escoda Shoal.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin earlier denied the reclamation activity, calling it a “sheer rumor.” Dr. Fernando Siringan, a professor at the UP Marine Science Institute, said the dead corals could be used to build islands.

The Philippines is currently preparing an environmental case against China over the maritime destruction in the West Philippine Sea.

COLLECTOR’S ITEMS. The masterpieces of the first Filipino National Artist, portraitist and painter Fernando Amorsolo are recreated by PinoyLUG (Lego User Group) and put on display at the Gateway Mall Activity Center in Cubao, Quezon City on Saturday, June 8, 2024. Joan Bondoc

BUMPER HARVEST.

is proving to be

good year for tobacco farmers of Sudipen town in La Union with bumper harvest and high buying rate for their crop.

Revoli Cortez

E-mail:

MMDA SETS ROAD CLOSURES FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will enforce temporary road closures in Manila for the 126th Philippine Independence Day celebration on June 12.

The following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic from 6 am to 10 am: l Roxas Boulevard– both lanes from T.M. Kalaw to P. Burgos Avenue

l T.M. Kalaw – from Ma. Orosa to Roxas Boulevard (westbound)

The following roads will be closed from 1 pm to 10 pm:

l Roxas Boulevard – from United Nations Avenue to P. Burgos Avenue

(both lanes)

l T.M. Kalaw – both lanes from Roxas Boulevard to Taft Avenue

l P. Burgos Avenue – both lanes and Finance Road

l Bonifacio Drive – from Anda Circle to P. Burgos Avenue

Adjacent roads within Rizal Park and Quirino Grandstand will also be utilized for the occasion.

The MMDA urged motorists to take alternate routes for the duration of the closure.

Those going northbound from Roxas Boulevard may turn right to Quirino Avenue or United Nations Avenue then turn left to Taft Avenue en route to their respective destinations.

For private vehicles going from Radial 10 to Anda Circle, they are advised to turn left to Soriano Avenue then right to Solana Street, turn left to Muralla Street, then go straight to Magallanes Drive, turn right to P. Burgos Avenue to their destinations.

Trucks going northbound and southbound are also advised to take alternative routes: South Luzon Expressway, Osmeña Highway,

Quirino Avenue, Nagtahan Street, Lacson Avenue, Yuseco Street, Capulong Street, and Radial 10 Road to their destinations.

The actual closing and opening of affected roads will be based on the traffic situation.

The MMDA will deploy a total of 1,156 personnel in strategic locations, ensuring seamless traffic management. Additionally, ambulances, military trucks, dump trucks, tow trucks, and other resources will be dispatched.

The celebrations will take place from June 10 to 12 at the Rizal Park Burnham Green right across Quirino Grandstand. Various government agencies and non-government organizations have prepared activities.

POWER SUPPLY REMAINS STABLE DESPITE EL NIÑO CHALLENGES–DOE

By Charles Dantes

THE Department of Energy (DOE) on Saturday assured that the country’s electricity supply remains stable despite challenges from El Niño and climate change.

DOE Assistant Secretary Mario Marasigan confirmed there are currently no alert levels imposed, indicating sufficient power supply.

“So, starting from last week, our alert levels have been reduced. The yellow alert is gone. Over the past weekend, we experienced manual [load] dropping and went into red alert until almost midnight. There were some incidents in our electricity system. But after that weekend, we have stabilized and now our generation is more than enough,” Marasigan said in a news forum in Quezon City.

“Since Thursday, we don’t have any alert. Actually, on Wednesday we still had a predicted alert until 10 p.m. here in Luzon, but the alert level was only sent out at 1 p.m. So, the alert level started on Wednesday afternoon and until now we no longer have any alert level,” he added.

Marasigan said the recent red alerts were attributed to climate effects on power plants, especially hydropower facilities.

To address demand, the DOE maintains direct communication with operators and utilizes platforms like Viber for real-time monitoring, preventing brownouts even during red alerts.

Marasigan said DOE anticipates no manual load dropping or red alerts, although yellow alerts may occur due to limited reserves.

PH ELECTED AS DEPUTY MEMBER OF ILO GOVERNING BODY – LAGUESMA

By Vito Barcelo

THE Philippines has been elected as deputy member to the Governing Body of the International Labor Organization (ILO), 16 years after it was elected in a titular capacity in 2005-2008, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma announced.

The title was a significant achieve -

IN BRIEF

SOLON BACKS COMELEC PLAN TO BAN DEEPFAKE, AI USE IN ‘25 CAMPAIGN

CAMARINES Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte backed the Commission on Elections’ proposal to ban the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake technology in electoral campaigns, to preserve honesty and transparency in the 2025 elections onwards.

Villafuerte said he welcomes Comelec chairperson George Garcia’s proposal for the poll body to disqualify or file election offense cases or both against candidates found using AI and deepfake technology in the 2025 midterm elections.

The lawmaker agreed with Garcia that the possible abuse of this recently developed technology could lead to—as stated by the Comelec chief—the “fraudulent misrepresentation” of candidates during electoral campaigns.

“I agree with Chairman Greg (Garcia) that the use of deepfake technology with malicious intent would subvert the very purpose of campaigns, which is for the electorate to have enough time to know poll contenders sufficiently and truthfully, so our voters can make informed choices come Election Day,” said Villafuerte, who has taken part in electoral politics for two decades now.

Maricel V. Cruz

CLIMATE CHANGE BODY URGES CREATION OF NAT’L ADAPTATION PLAN

THE Philippines’ Climate Change Commission (CCC) on Saturday called on stakeholders to implement a “National Adaptation Plan Process” to reduce the country’s climate change vulnerability.

“We need to create a National Adaptation Plan (NAP) because we have to adjust to the climate changes. In the last couple of years, we have already drafted and finalized the National Adaptation Plan,” CCC Assistant Secretary Rommel Cuenca said in a Quezon City news forum.

He highlighted the United Nations’ (UN) call for national adaptation plans to “reduce vulnerability and build adaptive capacity.”

“Adaptive capacity is the ability of a community, a region, a city, a country to be able to reduce the harm and to exploit the benefits that can come out of adaptation action,” Cuenca said.

He stressed the need for an integrated national adaptation plan, involving all sectors— government agencies, the private sector, academia, and local governments—to ensure a unified approach to climate resilience. Charles Dantes

DENR: NESTING SITE OF LEARTHERBACK TURTLE IN CAGAYAN

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) called for public support to protect the nesting site of a critically endangered leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) in the coastal town of Sta. Ana in Cagayan province.

The Environment Department made the appeal on World Oceans Day on Saturday.

According to a DENR statement, a female leatherback turtle recently laid eggs along the shoreline of Brgy. Centro in the said town, before returning to the sea. The said turtle’s carapace measured 200 centimeters long and 100 centimeters wide. Residents have since secured the area with nets.

ment in the country’s commitment to adopt and foster labor standards in protecting the workers’ rights and well-being across the globe, Laguesma said in a statement.

The election took place during the 112th International Labor Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.

Laguesma said the election is a testament to the Philippines’ active and continuous participation in the inter-

national labor community by shaping fair and equitable global policies on work practices and conditions.

The Philippines and other elected member-states will serve a three-year term until June 2027.

The Governing Body is the executive arm of the ILO, which plays a crucial role in determining the organization’s plans, setting the agenda for the International Labor Confer-

ence, adopting proposed activities and budget, and electing the ILO’s Director-General. Currently, the ILO Governing Body consists of 56 titular members composed of 28 government representatives, 14 employer representatives, 14 worker representatives, as well as 66 deputy members, including 28 from governments, 19 from employers, and 19 from the workers’ sector.

Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga has ordered DENR Cagayan Valley Regional Executive Director Gwendolyn Bambalan to ensure strict protection of the area by deploying personnel to monitor the nesting site of this marine resource on a 24-hour basis. Maricel V. Cruz

MASSIVE SELFIE. Speaker Martin Romualdez takes a selfie with student-beneficiaries of the Integrated Scholarship and Incentives Program (ISIP) at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex in Tagum City.

WITH CLUBFOOT.

E-mail: mst.daydesk@gmail.com Website: www.manilastandard.net

ADMIN COMMITTED TO BUILD MORE REG’L SPECIALTY HOSPITALS – SPEAKER

By Rosas Olarte and Maricel Cruz

SPEAKER Martin Romualdez led the groundbreaking and capsule-laying of a soon-to-be-established 20-storey integrated specialty and wellness hub at the Bicol Regional Health and Medical Center (BRHMC) in Legazpi City, Albay.

The project is part of the Legacy Specialty Hospitals initiative championed by Romualdez and President Marcos aimed at elevating healthcare standards across the Philippines.

“As the leader of the House of Representatives, it is my duty to carry out the order of President Marcos Jr. to build projects

that our countrymen need,” the Speaker said.

“For regional specialty hospitals, it is our President’s dream that the people of the provinces can also feel the care of patients from world-class hospitals like the one built by his father in Metro Manila,” he added.

House Appropriations Com -

mittee chairperson and Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co emphasized the significance of the facility, describing it as “not just a building but a landmark for the Bicol Region and our country.”

Co highlighted that the hospital will be a Level 3 facility, equipped with a heart center, lung center, cancer center, and other specialized medical services. Through this project, he said Bicolanos will no longer need to travel to Manila for advanced medical treatments.

The new hospital boasts a 433bed capacity and features stateof-the-art facilities, including advanced MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) scan equipment, diagnostic laboratories, and a comprehensive cancer center.

Co expressed pride in the mod -

ern infrastructure and the benefits it will bring to the local community.

Romualdez said the Bicol Legacy Hospital will set a new standard for healthcare across the country. He noted that this hospital is one of three major legacy projects under the Marcos administration, alongside initiatives for food security and housing.

He pointed out that the administration is targeting to build one million dwelling units for the poor every year up to 2028 to fill the housing backlog of 6.5 million.

In addition to attending the groundbreaking ceremony, the House Speaker visited patients at the BRHMC and distributed five kilos of rice to their families, underscoring his commitment to community service.

MANIBELA: 25,000 MEMBERS TO JOIN 3-DAY STRIKE STARTING MONDAY

By Maricel V. Cruz

TRANSPORT group Samahang

Manibela Mananakay at Nagkaisang Terminal ng Transportasyon (Manibela) on Saturday announced the conduct of its three-day protest caravan with an estimated 25,000 of its members nationwide expected to participate.

The transport strike, set to take place from June 10 to 12, protests the apprehensions of unconsolidated jeepneys even after the

Congress “allowed for a year-long registration.”

Manibela president Mar Valbuena said members joining the protest would come from Calabarzon, Central Luzon, Ilocos Region, and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

“The National Capital Region will be the concentration of the protests. No less than 25,000 will join the rally,” Valbuena said in Filipino.

“Maybe only two places in NCR

will not be affected too much, Makati and Mandaluyong,” he added.

The transport leader also appealed for understanding as he apologized to commuters who will be affected by the transport strike.

“To our dear riders, I hope you understand. We will also be affected, our livelihood will also be affected for three days,” Valbuena said.

He also called on his members to avoid any altercations with au-

thorities during the rally.

“We just hope that the government will not provoke us... We have been threatened to be arrested many times, but it is inevitable for us to fight back in whatever manner,” Valbuena said.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has apprehended unconsolidated public utility vehicles (PUVs) whose franchises were revoked after the April 30 deadline for consolidation expired.

MMDA TO SET UP MORE TRASH TRAPS IN NCR TO REDUCE FLOODING RISK

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is taking steps to reduce the risk of flooding in the National Capital Region (NCR) during the rainy season.

MMDA chairman Romando Artes announced that additional trash traps will be installed in waterways as part of the agency’s flood management efforts.

“With the help of the trash trap, the trash does not reach the pumping station which could cause damage to the facility,” Artes said.

Regular cleaning of pumping stations and waterways is also being conducted to ensure smooth operations during heavy rainfall.

The agency urged the public to participate in promoting proper waste management to minimize garbage and reduce the occurrence of flooding in the metropolis. Artes said garbage thrown on the streets end up clogging canals, drainage systems, and waterways, causing floods. He asked the public to stop throwing garbage on the streets to allow rainwaters to flow. Such trash includes plastic bags, cups and bottles, styrofoam, and leftover food.

IN BRIEF

HPG: OFFICERS NOT ALLOWED TO WORK AS ESCORTS FOR HIRE

THE Philippine National PoliceHighway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) on Saturday said it does not allow its officers to work as escorts for hire after a social media influencer claimed that her husband had hired a motorcycle cop to help her bypass traffic.

The HPG emphasized it “will not tolerate” its personnel acting as private traffic escorts for pay, as it goes against their protocols and regulations.

The agency is currently verifying whether any of their officers are involved in such activities.

The influencer’s claim was made on her Instagram Story, which has since expired, but screenshots were taken and shared by other users. There were speculations that the escort may have been obtained through a politician, as some of them travel in convoys with police escorts.

In addition to security escorts, certain officials have numbered protocol plates, and uniformed personnel often show special treatment to people in power on the road. Joel E. Zurbano

KANANGA TOWN MARKS KAANYAG FESTIVAL SUNDAY

KANANGA, Leyte – Officials of the local government of Kananga in Leyte province are inviting the public to this year’s Kananga Kaanyag Festival on Sunday, June 9, 2024, to celebrate the town’s rich culture and tradition.

“Join us as we celebrate the rich cultural heritage and dynamic spirit of Kananga at the Kananga Kaanyag Festival 2024. It is set to dazzle audiences with vibrant performances and cultural showcases,” said April Tanhueco, municipal tourism officer.

The Sunday event will feature a grand parade, street dance, grand ritual showdown, the announcement of the Miss Kananga Kaanyag Festival Queen 2024, fireworks display, and an evening social activity.

The participating contingents for the school-based category include Kananga District III-Banay Alimyon, Kananga District I –Kanangahanong Mattahom, and Kananga District II-Kaanyagong Mananayaw. For the open category, the groups are See-NanJose (Tacloban City), Pundok Ugmokanon (Ormoc City), and Hiraite Festival (Leyte, Leyte). Tanhueco also thanked Miss Universe Philippines-Kananga 2024, Phoebe Arrianna Torita, for her special participation during the festival. Ronald O. Reyes

LAWMAKER SEEKS MORE PROTECTION FOR MT. ARAYAT

A HOUSE leader led an interagency consultative meeting to discuss plans, interventions and mitigation measures of regional government agencies to address the recent forest fires in Mt. Arayat Protected Landscape (MAPL) in the province of Pampanga.

During the months of February, April and May of this year, forest fires razed a portion of the Protected Landscape located in the boundaries of the municipalities of Arayat and Magalang, and destroyed an estimated 132 hectares of land.

Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr said Republic Act 11684 or the Mt. Arayat Protected Landscape recognizes the richness of the biological resources, both flora and fauna, that are native and distinct to Mt. Arayat.

During the meeting Thursday, the regional offices discussed the actions they have undertaken to address the forest fires that affected 102.13 hectares of the National Greening Program identified sites within the protected area in Arayat and 30.50 hectares in the Magalang side. Gonzales said the DENR should coordinate with the two LGUs to resolve the issue of the illegal occupation within the protected area. Maricel V. Cruz

MAVERICKS. CIMB Bank Philippines officially unveils the 10 nominees of the inaugural Pinoy Mavericks Awards.

(From left) D’Artagnan Aguilar, CIMB Chief Marketing Office; and nominees Steve Dailisan, Myke Celis, Marlon Fuentes, Phoebe Fructuoso, Jerico Ramota, Jerico Silvers, MK Bertulfo, Jkhriez Pastrana, April Perreras, and Erline Maniquis.

REST WHERE ABLE. A man takes a rest inside a concrete culvert along Pagasa Road in Taguig City. Manny Palmero

SOKOR ON ALERT FOR FRESH TRASH BALLOONS FROM NORTH

SOUTH Korea’s military said it was on alert for more trashcarrying balloons possibly arriving from North Korea on Sunday.

In two waves last week, North Korea sent hundreds of balloons with bags of trash into the South, describing them as a response to anti-Pyongyang propaganda balloons sent the other way by South Korean activists.

Pyongyang announced a halt to the balloons on Sunday but days later, a South Korean group called “Fighters for Free North Korea” said it had sent 10 balloons with K-pop music and 200,000 leaflets against leader Kim Jong Un.

The South Korean military is “closely monitoring with vigilance” because of “the possibility of more trash balloons descending around tomorrow,” its spokesperson told AFP on Saturday.

SWEDEN SPLASHES OUT TO SAVE UNLUCKIEST WARSHIP

North Korea had said it would respond with “wastepaper and rubbish” a hundred times the amount if more South Korean leaflets were sent.

The North Korean balloons last week landed in a number of locations in the South, and were found to be carrying garbage such as cigarette butts, cardboard scrap and waste batteries.

In response to the balloons, South Korea on Tuesday completely suspended a 2018 military deal with the North, which was meant to reduce tensions between the neighbours.

Authorities in Seoul have condemned the North Korean balloons as a “low-class” act and threatened countermeasures that it said Pyongyang would find “unendurable.”

Activists in South Korea have long sent balloons northwards, filled with anti-Pyongyang propaganda, cash, rice, and Korean TV series on USB thumb drives.

These have always infuriated North Korea, whose government is extremely sensitive about its people gaining access to South

Korean pop culture.

Kuensaem, another South Korean activist group, told AFP that it threw 500 plastic bottles into the sea on Friday near the border with North Korea.

The bottles were filled with rice, cash and a USB drive with the South Korean series “Crash Landing on You” – which features a romance between a wealthy South Korean heiress and a North Korean army officer.

The group has been doing this twice a month since 2015.

“We were just doing what we’ve been doing for a long time to help North Koreans who are starving,” the group’s leader Park Jung-oh told AFP Saturday.

Tensions over the duelling propaganda have boiled over in dramatic fashion in the past.

In 2020, blaming the anti-North leaflets, Pyongyang unilaterally cut off all official military and political communication links with Seoul and blew up a disused inter-Korean liaison office on its side of the border. AFP

IN BRIEF

APOLLO 8 ASTRONAUT DIES IN SMALL PLANE CRASH

WILLIAM Anders, the former US astronaut who took the historic “Earthrise” photo from space over 55 years ago, died in a plane crash on Friday at the age of 90, his family said.

Anders had been piloting a small plane which crashed off the coast of Washington state on Friday morning, his son told US media. Anders was alone in the plane.

SWEDEN is embarking on a colossal four-year project to safeguard a nearly 400-year-old warship that is the centerpiece of its famous Vasa Museum.

The ship, one of Stockholm’s main tourist attractions, sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and remained at the bottom of the sea until it was salvaged in 1961.

“We want Vasa to be preserved for the future,” project manager Peter Rydebjork told AFP.

Despite the long delicate recovery operation, the ship “started to deteriorate faster” once it emerged from the sea after three centuries, he said.

In one of the most embarrassing naval calamities ever, the Vasa capsized only 15 minutes into its maiden voyage because of a design flaw, costing the lives of several dozen crew members.

After being protected by mud and the brackish waters of the Baltic Sea for three centuries, preserving it while on display at one of Stockholm’s most popular museums has proved more complicated.

The wood has contracted over the years, and the ship is being compressed due to gravity. It is also tilting slightly to port.

“We have to stop the movement,” Rydebjork said.

Work on building a new support structure began in April to replace the fragile current one.

The first phase of the project, dubbed “Stotta Vasa” (Support Vasa), is to stabilize the wreck.

Then comes the creation of a structure to support its weight and finally the ship will be righted.

By 2028 – if all goes well – the hull will be supported both externally and internally and the current 17 external struts will be replaced by 27 steel cradles with fixings under the keel.

Because the Vasa currently has difficulty supporting its own weight, a type of steel skeleton will be installed inside the ship.

Rydebjork said it has taken more than a decade of research to prepare for the ambitious project – which is expected to cost upwards of 200 million kronor ($19 million).

“It’s a really interesting job,”Rydebjork added.

Despite its age, the ill-fated vessel is still well-preserved, with 98 percent of the original parts intact.

Polish tourist Lukasz Szyszka told AFP that the ship was in great condition and worth seeing, despite it being “freezing inside” the museum.

Its main hall is kept at a temperature of between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius (between 64 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit) with a humidity level of 55 percent to slow the deterioration.

The 43-year-old shopkeeper said work on the wreck was needed, saying it was also part of Polish history.

Swedish king Gustav II Adolf (1611-1632), who commissioned the Vasa, wanted to use it so he could to control Poland’s ports on the Baltic. AFP

WWII VET TO MARRY AFTER D-DAY COMMEMORATIONS

HUNDRED-YEAR-OLD World War II veteran

Harold Terens will marry his 96-year-old fiancee Saturday in the French town of Carentan-les-Marais, just days after being honoured on the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings that took place a few kilometers away.

Terens’s 11:00 am (0900 GMT) wedding to Jeanne Swerlin will be followed by a celebration “with his loved ones, in a small group,” said Sarah Pasquier, the town hall’s representative for D-Day commemorations.

“We are very honored that Mr. Terens has chosen to get married here, in Carentan, where in June 1944 the meeting of Allied troops from the landings at Utah and Omaha beaches took place,” Mayor Jean-Pierre Lhonneur told AFP.

“We will offer him champagne, of course, but also a gift to thank him for having participated in the liberation of France.”

After the ceremony, “depending on his possible fatigue,” Terens may join in a parade of veterans in the centre of

Carentan during the afternoon, according to Pasquier.

A liberation ball will also be held in the evening as part of the D-Day commemorations, she said, with attendees “invited to dress in the 1940s theme, and soldiers from the nearby American base welcome.”

“But Mr. Terens and his wife may be too tired to join,” she added.

Terens, who lives with Swerlin in Boca Raton, Florida, was awarded the French Legion of Honour by President Emmanuel Macron in 2019.

After the war Terens married his first wife, Thelma, with whom he spent 70 years and raised three children until her death in 2018.

In 2021, a friend introduced him to Swerlin, a charismatic woman who had also been widowed, and the two have been inseparable practically ever since.

“She lights up my life, she makes everything beautiful,” Terens told AFP in an interview last month in Florida. “She makes life worth living.” AFP

Sheriff Eric Peter told AFP that teams were searching the area, but had not yet found a body.

A member of the Apollo 8 mission in December 1968, Anders became one of the first humans to reach the Moon, along with fellow Americans Frank Borman and James Lovell.

The crew orbited the Moon ten times without landing, before successfully returning to Earth on December 27, 1968. AFP

RIO POLICE KILL ALLEGED CRIME BOSS IN SHOOT-OUT

A SUSPECTED organized crime boss in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro was killed Friday in a shoot-out with police as they tried to arrest him, local authorities said.

Rio’s civil police said in a statement that Rui Paulo Goncalves Estevao, also known as “Pipito,” was the alleged head of an organized criminal group accused of extortion and sowing terror in the city.

“When he was approached, he attacked the agents and a confrontation ensued. The criminal was hit and taken to a local hospital, but died of his wounds,” police said.

Rio Governor Claudio Castro said police had dealt a “hard blow against criminals who disturb the peace of the population.”

Castro wrote on social media site X that Pipito earlier “gave the order to burn 35 buses” in western Rio neighborhoods in retaliation for the death of a relative of another alleged crime boss, who is in prison.

Rio’s organized crime groups, known as militias, were founded about four decades ago by former law enforcement officers and originally presented as self-defense organizations to fight against violent drug traffickers. AFP

VIRGIN GALACTIC SET FOR FINAL SPACEFLIGHT

VIRGIN Galactic is poised on Saturday for its last spaceflight before heading into a two-year pause on commercial operations to upgrade its fleet, as the company seeks to finally turn a profit.

The “Galactic 07” mission is scheduled to begin at around 8:30 am Mountain Time (1430 GMT) from the company’s base in Spaceport, New Mexico, a spokesman said.

A huge carrier plane takes off from a runway, gains altitude for around 50 minutes, and then releases from under its wings a spaceplane that soars at supersonic speed to the edge of space, where passengers can enjoy a few minutes of weightlessness and admire the Earth’s curve.

On board will be two pilots and four private astronauts. One of them is Tuva Atasever, a Turkish space agency astronaut whose seat was contracted through another space company, Axiom, while the names of the other three will likely be disclosed afterwards. It will be the seventh commercial flight for the company founded in 2004 by British tycoon Richard Branson, in an emerging suborbital tourism market where its main competitor is Blue Origin, owned by Amazon billionaire Jeff

The Swedish warship Vasa at the Vasa Museum in Stockholm. AFP

Astronaut Major General William Anders

World War II

veteran Harold Terens and his 96-year-old fiancee Jeanne Swerlin

NEW CITEM LEADER OUTLINES PLANS FOR THE AGENCY’S FUTURE

THE Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) welcomes Romleah Pulido Ocampo as their new Executive Director.

Ocampo, a CITEM veteran with over 2 decades of experience, aims to revitalize the organization.

Her vision is for a strong and collaborative CITEM that re-establishes itself as the leading export promotion agency.

She plans to strengthen CITEM’s brand and core functions to become a trusted authority in export promotion and expand its reach through social media and increased regional involvement.

Ocampo also intends to build partnerships with research institutions, academia, and local governments, as well as asmplementing best practices while fostering staff development and efficiency.

Ocampo’s career path at CITEM began in 1984, and she excelled in managing major export events like Manila FAME and IFEX Philippines.

Moving to DTI Region 2 in 2019, she focused on supporting MSMEs and the agricultural sector in the Cagayan Valley Region. Ocampo’s innovative solutions included the “Walang Sayang Project” to bridge supply chain gaps and the “Buy Local Advocacy” which guarantees sales for local businesses.

Ocampo emphasizes the importance of aligning CITEM’s goals with DTI’s, and measuring success through clearly defined metrics. Her extensive experience and strong vision position CITEM for a promising future.

PC COLLECTION’S commitment to sustainability has been recognized with a Gold Stevie Award in the Social Impact Company category for its #GreenLifeGreatLife movement.

The program serves as the foundation for PC’s various sustainable practices which include adhering to regulations and implementing innovative solutions in manufacturing and logistics.

PC has actively reduced electricity and water consumption, improved distribution efficiency, lowered fuel usage, and minimized carbon emissions. They’ve also made significant strides in plastic waste management, exceeding their 2023 goal by co-processing over 98 tons of plastic.

It’s dedication to innovation and sustainability efforts earned the company a Bronze Stevie Award for Excellence in Innovation in Consumer Products for their White Dove with DreamScentz™ Technology, a product in their baby care line.

“These recognitions belong to our employees, dealers, partners, and customers. Thank you for believing in our innovative efforts and our mission to make a difference now and for future generations,” said PC chairman of environment, social & governance committee Leejay Evangelista.

BUKO Pandesal

Bakeshop, a thriving enterprise in Maitim Bay, Laguna, is renowned for its delightful innovation on the classic pandesal.

Owned by Aira May Cueto and her siblings, the bakeshop blends traditional baking techniques with a contemporary twist, resulting in delectable creations that celebrate Filipino ingenuity.

“Filipinos are known for their ability to create better things, better products. In our line of business, we need to find the products that we can truly call our own. Improving the classic pandesal brought us closer to becoming more responsive to the evolving tastes of customers and helped us sustain our business,” Cueto said.

Their take on pandesal provides a unique twist on the traditional bread.

Buko Pandesal features a delightful young coconut filling—a cherished ingredient in Filipino cuisine. Each morning, the inviting aroma of freshly-baked Buko Pandesal entices patrons, beckoning them for a perfect start to their day. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or any hot beverage. Finding a new home

The pandemic presented a huge

CONSUMER CARE COMPANY WINS STEVIE AWARDS FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND INNOVATION

challenge to the business owners. Forced to relocate from San Pablo to Bay, Laguna, which was closer to their Los Baños residence, the Cueto family had to begin anew.

This marked a turning point in their journey, but their dedication to their craft and community remained unwavering.

Fortunately, they found a strong ally in the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The DTI’s support, from deciphering regulations to securing access to government assistance programs, proved invaluable.

The Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBE) program, in particular, empowered Buko Pandesal Bakeshop to navigate business intricacies and unlock growth opportunities, including tax exemptions.

With the DTI’s help, the business thrived. Driven by a vision for continuous growth and innovation, the Cueto siblings plan to

ABOITIZ Construction and Aboitiz Foundation teamed up to celebrate Philippine Environment Month by unveiling a brand-new Material Recovery Facility (MRF) for Barangay Bagong Pook in Malvar, Batangas, on June 5, 2024.

The state-of-the-art MRF is designed to be the central hub for all waste management activities in the barangay, from waste collection, sorting, and recycling.

“This MRF that we built is a way for us to express our continued trust in your ability to care for and value nature. May this serve

LAGUNA BAKESHOP REDEFINES CLASSIC PANDESAL

expand and diversify their offerings.

As they innovate, they hope to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs to similarly chase their dreams with relentless determination.

Proudly Pinoy

Buko Pandesal Bakeshop stands as a shining example of Filipino entrepreneurial spirit. Their active participation in seminars conducted by the DTI and DOST demonstrates their dedication to food safety and continuous improvement. Living true to their tagline, “Tikman nang maibigan” (taste it, and you’ll be hooked), their goal extends beyond simply providing delicious treats. They inspire fellow entrepreneurs to infuse every aspect of their businesses with passion and care.

The Buko Pandesal owners learned that exceeding expectations and staying motivated are key ingredients for success. They remind aspiring entrepreneurs that every hurdle is an opportunity for growth, and every setback a chance to rise stronger. Carrying forward the family legacy, Cueto and her siblings, inspired by their father’s entrepreneurial ventures and participation in DTI programs, are carving their own niche in the bread industry. They have recently branched out in Mandaluyong and dream of introducing their unique flavors to other regions in the Philippines, and perhaps even the world, leaving a lasting imprint on global baking culture. Othel V. Campos

ABOITIZ GROUP UNVEILS NEW MRF IN BATANGAS

as inspiration for all of us to be more mindful and diligent in fulfilling our duties as stewards of our environment,” said Aboitiz Construction project director Kervy Datay.

Sustainability is a core principle behind the MRF’s design. Aboitiz Construction’s skilled team built the facility using long-lasting materials and incorporated solar panels to power its operations, minimizing its environmental footprint.

“The success of this MRF depends on our collective effort.

By embracing recycling and proper waste disposal, each of us can make a significant impact on our environment and set an example for future generations,” Aboitiz Group chief reputation and sustainability officer and Aboitiz Foundation president Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar said.

The new MRF will not only benefit the community but also help Barangay Bagong Pook comply with Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. other communities they serve.

PC Collection chairman of environment, social & governance committee Leejay Evangelista

From left are: Aboitiz Construction team project manager Alex Rubis, Aboitiz Construction project director Kervy Datay, Bagong Pook brgy. captain Lilibeth Lat, Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. president Ginggay Hontiveros, and Aboitiz Foundation impact lead for Climate Action Welfredo Dalumpine.

Bakeshop owner and proprietress Aira May Ocampo

ON THE ROAD

IMG PHILIPPINES UNVEILS GAME-CHANGING DUO:

THE MG3 HATCHBACK AND MG G50 PLUS MPV

N A MOVE to shake up both the B-segment hatchback and MPV markets, MG Philippines has recently introduced two highly anticipated models - the MG3 hatchback and the MG G50 Plus MPV. These new offerings aim to redefine the standards in their respective segments, providing consumers with a compelling blend of style, efficiency, and unparalleled value.

The MG3: A Hatchback Breakthrough

The MG3’s proves to be a true standout given its industry-first Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) variant. As the pioneer in the hatchback segment, the MG3 HEV offers exceptional efficiency without compromising on performance. Powered by a hybrid electric-fuel powertrain, the HEV variant delivers a potent 190PS of power and 250Nm of torque, making it a perfect choice for those seeking eco-friendly mobility without sacrificing the renowned MG driving experience.

Boasting a sleek and classy design, the MG3 sets new benchmarks for both style and functionality. Its modern exterior features LED/halogen headlamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, and power-folding mirrors, ensuring a striking presence on the road. Step inside, and the MG3 exudes elegance with its leather-style interior and leather-wrapped steering wheel, enhancing the driving experience for both the driver and passengers.

The MG3 is available in six vibrant colors: St Moritz Blue, Extreme Speed Red, Morning Yellow, Moon White, Meteorite Black, and Blade Silver. Pricing for the MG3 starts at P678,888 for the STD MT variant, P828,888 for the COM CVT, and P898,888 for the LUX CVT. The top-of-the-line MG3 Hybrid+ CVT is priced at P1,088,888.

The MG G50 Plus: A Family-Friendly MPV Champion

Alongside the MG3, MG Philippines has also introduced the all-new MG G50 Plus, a strong contender in the highly competitive MPV market. Designed with Filipino families in mind, the G50 Plus offers a spacious

7/8-seater interior, with an elegant and modern design that seamlessly integrates the latest technologies for a comfortable and plush riding experience. Under the hood, the G50 Plus packs a punch with a 1.5L turbocharged engine that produces 181PS of power and 280Nm of torque. Customers can choose between a 6-speed automatic or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, ensuring optimal power delivery and confident highway cruising, even when carrying a full load of passengers and cargo.

The MG G50 Plus is available in five color options: Moon White, Meteorite Black, Blade Silver, Andes Gray, and Water Blue. Pricing for the G50 Plus starts at P1,048,888 for the STD MT variant, P1,188,888 for the COM DCT, and P1,288,888 for the top-of-the-line LUX DCT model.

IF there’s one thing we learned from the first ever Auto Parts and Vehicle Expo (APVE) PH held recently, it’s that the automotive parts and supplies industry is experiencing a robust surge, driven by the country’s rapidly expanding vehicle market. As the number of registered and unregistered vehicles on Philippine roads continues to skyrocket, the demand for aftermarket products and services has grown exponentially.

Currently, the Philippine auto parts sector is home to over 250 local businesses that produce and import a diverse range of components, from metal to plastic and rubber. These enterprises cater to both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and the independent aftermarket (IAM), meeting the replacement needs of the country’s burgeoning vehicle fleet.

According to data from the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, the auto parts sector employs around 67,100 workers nationwide, underscoring its significance as a major economic driver.

Recognizing the strategic importance of this industry, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has stepped up its support. In a recent report, the agency outlined its goal of strengthening the sector’s position as a key automotive player in Asia, with plans to position the Philippines as a regional hub for vehicles and parts through a robust domestic supplier base.

KIA SONET CHARGES INTO THE PHILIPPINE MARKET, REDEFINING THE ENTRY SUV SEGMENT

LANDSCAPES are set to undergo a transformation with the arrival of the highly anticipated Kia Sonet, which aims to conquer the entry SUV segment with its stylish design, advanced features, and compelling value proposition.

Designed to impress, the Kia Sonet boasts a robust and modern exterior that commands attention on the road. Its bold dimensions, signature Tiger-nose grille, and class-leading 205mm ground clearance provide a strong SUV presence. Higher-end variants feature premium elements such as LED lighting, an electric sunroof, and sleek two-tone alloy wheels. Inside, the Sonet’s cabin strikes a balance between comfort and practicality. Top-of-theline trims offer luxurious leather seats, while all variants come equipped with spacious seating

for five passengers. Convenience features like driver’s seat pockets, 60:40 split-folding rear seats, and multiple USB ports, including USB-C, cater to the needs of modern drivers.

The Sonet’s technological prowess is equally impressive, with a range of advanced features. Depending on the variant, customers can enjoy a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone integration, and a suite of Kia Drive Wise safety technologies, including Lane Following Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance, and High Beam Assist.

Under the hood, the Kia Sonet is powered by a 1.5-liter Dual Port Fuel Injected gasoline engine, delivering a class-leading 115 PS and 144 Nm of torque. This efficient powertrain, paired

with either the Intelligent Variable Transmission or a 6-speed manual, provides a dynamic and responsive driving experience.

“The Kia Sonet is a true game-changer in the small SUV category,” said Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, CEO of ACMobility.“With its stylistic appeal, feature-rich packaging, and compelling pricing, we are confident that the Sonet will become a cornerstone of our product lineup and a leading choice for discerning Filipino car buyers.”

Ranging from PHP 758,000 to PHP 1,138,000, the Kia Sonet is poised to offer an unbeatable balance of style, technology, and value in the entry SUV segment. The arrival of this modern and capable SUV marks a significant milestone for Kia Philippines, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to providing movement that

IN a landscape dominated by mainstream automotive brands, a new player has emerged to challenge the status quo – Seres, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has officially launched in the Philippines. Through its local distributor, QSJ Motors Philippines, Seres aims to redefine the notion of premium and sustainable mobility in the country. As a relative newcomer to the Philippine market, Seres’ reputation has been built on its expertise in electrification, including the development of advanced battery systems, electric drives, and control modules. This technological prowess is reflected in the brand’s diverse powertrain offerings, which include

pure electric, range-extended, and hybrid configurations – all based on the versatile MF platform.

Seres is not just another Chinese car brand,” said Kevin Chiang, the Managing Director of QSJ Motors Philippines. “We are here to introduce a new level of refinement, technology, and driving experience to Filipino consumers who are seeking a premium electrified solution.”

At the launch event in Okada last weekend, Seres unveiled three models that showcased the brand’s ambitions – the Seres 5, the Seres 5 Saker Falcon Edition (SF), and the Seres 7. These vehicles immediately stood out with their impressive build quality, luxurious interiors, and advanced features.

However, the DTI also acknowledges the sector’s competitiveness challenges, such as the lack of economies of scale and a weak supply chain. To address these issues, the department recommends policy upgrades and temporary subsidies to bolster the industry’s operations and growth.

The government’s efforts come at a time of remarkable growth in the Philippine vehicle market. The Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) projects the industry to reach a record 500,000 unit sales mark by 2024, following the previous high of 429,807 units sold in 2023. Moreover, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) estimates a staggering 24.7 million unregistered vehicles, accounting for 65% of the country’s total motor vehicle fleet.

As the vehicle population continues to surge, both in registered and unregistered numbers, the demand for auto parts and services is poised to skyrocket. This expanding market, coupled with government support and regional trade agreements, positions the Philippine auto parts sector for sustained growth and long-term success.

AUTOHUB CELEBRATES

‘VESPA DAY’ BY LAUNCHING NEW SPRINT AND PRIMAVERA MODELS

VESPA, the timeless symbol of Italian style and urban mobility, has unveiled its latest model offerings for 2024 - the all-new Vespa Sprint and Primavera. These scooters represent the brand’s commitment to blending classic elegance with modern design and technology.

As the embodiment of Vespa’s youngest and most urban spirit, the Sprint and Primavera have undergone a comprehensive revamp, retaining their winning dimensions and engines while elevating the perception of exclusivity and premium feel.

“The new Vespa Sprint and Primavera are a harmonious combination of timeless, state-of-theart design and the latest technological equipment,” said Nicola Capello, Marketing Head of Piaggio Asia Pacific. “These scooters are designed to gratify the unique personality of each rider, offering a Vespa for every lifestyle.”

The 2024 Vespa Primavera lineup showcases the brand’s essential and sophisticated elegance, available in a range of alluring colors including White Innocenza, Green Relax, Orange Tramonto, Grey Materia, and Blue Deep. The Primavera S variant further enhances the scooter’s contemporary look with dedicated finishes and graphics, catering to those seeking a modern yet refined aesthetic.

AC Mobility Chief Executive Officer, Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala

G50 Plus Interior

3 FILIPINO ULTRA-MARATHONERS PROUDLY RAISE PH FLAG IN FRANCE

By Alona Cochon

EUROPE-BASED Filipino athletes

Rolando Espina, Bren Kevin Cabasa, and Eugene Evangelista demonstrated extraordinary endurance, perseverance, and determination— traits that epitomize the Filipino spirit— by successfully conquering the 222KM Ultr’Ardeche International Competition held recently in Ardèche, France.

Out of hundreds of applicants, only 61 were qualified to join, and only 37 completed the grueling race, which covered a distance of 222 kilometers. Participants were given only 37 hours to cross the finish line at Vernoux en Vivarais, France.

The race featured a trek to the foot of the Gerbier de Jonc summit, which has an altitude of 3,500 meters. Participants faced extreme difficulties and harsh conditions, including high temperatures during the day and cold temperatures at night. Despite these challenges, the three Filipinos displayed remarkable endurance and resilience, making their country proud

BEST FINISH

Among the three, Irelandbased Rolando Espina submitted the best nish with a time of 30 hours, 47 minutes, and 38 seconds. He has been competing in ultramarathons, having previously nished 3rd overall in the Ultramarathon MilanSanremo, completing that race in 36 hours and 40 minutes.

“This event is top-notch from top to bottom indeed! From the marshals and volunteers to the main man himself, Laurent Brueyre, who deserves all the love and applause,” said Espina in a social media post. “My goal is just to finish lang talaga, bonus nalang if maganda ang oras. I didn’t prepare much for this event, same lang din approach ko in all my other ultramarathons. Chill, relax, and see what happens.” Espina has 15 years of experience in endurance running and founded Bagat Team in Bacolod. Back in the Philippines, he organized the Negros Loop, covering 680 kilometers in six days. He was the rst Filipino to nish the Spartathlon race in Greece and placed second in the Ultramarathon Milan-Sanremo 2024 with a time of 36:40 hours,

boosts the UP Fighting Maroons mobility by providing two shuttle buses

CONVERGE ICT Solutions, a solid supporter of the UP Men’s Basketball Team (UPMBT), turned over two shuttles to the Fighting Maroons for their mobility needs. Converge Brand and Marketing Head Orange Ramirez and Senior Marketing Services Specialist Joven Quintana handed over the keys to the shuttles to UP o cials led by President Atty. Jijil Jimenez, UP Diliman Chancellor Atty. Carlo Vistan and UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development director Bo Perasol in a simple turnover ceremony. The event was also attended by nowheretogobutUP Foundation o cials

CATALAN’S SON READY FOR BIG STAGE

By Peter Atencio

GUIDED by his father, Rene Sr., Rene Catalan Jr,, will be pursuing big-money ghts in the Universal Reality Combat Championship (URCC) and Dynasty Fight Club events in Pasay City.

“Masaya ako. I am honored na kasama ko siya sa mga laban ko,” said the 19-year-old Rene Jr., also known as Neboy. Catalan Jr., has already stepped out of his father’s shadow, boasting three wins and two losses in his budding professional career.

The elder Catalan, a seasoned fighter with four world championships, two Asian Games gold medals, and two Southeast Asian Games gold medals, expressed con dence in his son’s abilities. “Based on experience, I’m con dent in him. I’m making sure he reaches the championship,” said Rene Sr., as he prepares his son to compete in the 125-lb category.

URCC founder Alvin Aguilar announced that the series will feature 18 ghts daily, including MMA, boxing, kickboxing, and grappling. Discovering the next champions and professional ghters to represent the country in various martial arts is among the main goals of the series, according to Aguilar.

led by Chairman Jed Eva, the UP Fighting Maroons and their coaches. UP Fighting Maroons assistant team manager Hyatt Basman expressed the team’s appreciation for Converge’s generosity.

“As always, we are grateful and appreciative of Converge’s support all through these years, especially during the pandemic,” said Basman. “This will not just be of great help to the basketball team, but to other UP varsity teams as well.”

UP OASD director Perasol also thanked Converge for their initiative and unwavering support.

THE Professional Fighters League (PFL), the fastest-growing and most innovative sports league in the world, has announced the matchups for PFL MENA 2, taking place at The Green Halls in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on July 12. Tickets are now on sale and can be booked through Platinum List. The second fight card of PFL MENA’s debut season features fighters in the Welterweight and Lightweight divisions competing in the patented PFL Playo win and advance format. In the Welterweight main event, PFL veteran and multipletime champion Jarrah“The Jordanian Lion”Al-Silawi (19-6-0) of Jordan meets

covering 283 kilometers.

Espina is set to join the Spartathlon in Greece again and another race in Dublin, Ireland.

NOT EASY

Bren Kevin Cabasa, an overseas Filipino from Milan, Italy, joined the race not aiming to win but to simply finish, which wasn’t easy at all.

“I just did it to finish, which wasn’t at all easy,” he said. He was there to enjoy the sight and beauty of the location, describing it as “magical and magnificent.”

He added, “But behind that beautiful scenery is a hidden di cult up and down course, that once crossed, will just make you smile like it had not given you a hard time,” after crossing the nish line in 31 hours, 01 minute, and 43 seconds.

Like Espina, ultramarathons are not unfamiliar to Cabasa.

He emerged as the champion in the 24-hour Ultra Cinisello Balsamo Running 2023, covering an impressive distance of 190.493 kilometers within the 24-hour timeframe. He also placed 4th at the Ultramarathon MilanoSanremo last month, alongside Espina, who won 3rd overall.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

For Eugene Evangelista, the race was a mission accomplished as he finished with a time of 33 hours, 49 minutes, and 32 seconds, securing 27th place. Despite the grueling nature of the race, Evangelista maintained a positive attitude, smiling and making video calls with friends and supporters upon completion.

Evangelista has tackled some of the toughest races, including the 100-kilometer, 7,900-meter elevation gain Trail Run in the 11th Grand Trail Courmayeur in Italy, which he completed in 31 hours from July 7 to 9, 2023. He also ranked 13th at the Ultramarathon Milan-Sanremo in 2023 and has nished major marathons in New York, Boston, and Chicago.

These three Filipinos overcame immense challenges to nish the race, serving as an inspiration to other aspiring Filipino athletes.

“First of all, we want to thank Sir Dennis Uy and the Converge family for their support. But most importantly, for being there for us and with us during tough times while we were in the middle of the pandemic.”

Converge first entered into a partnership with the UP Fighting Maroons in 2020 when they provided free internet access to UP students during the days of distance learning only. The connectivity provided by Converge helped students weather the demands and di culties of remote learning during that time, through Kaagapay UP.

The trio with their nisher’s medals.

Filipino Ultra-runners Rolando Espina, Eugene Evangelista, and Bren Kevin Cabasa enjoy the moment after completing the 222-km Ultr’Ardeche in Ardeche, France.

Converge

Rene Catalan Jr.

By Mariana Burgos

CANINE sleeping positions, similar to humans, display different physical and emotional states that can offer valuable information to pet owners. A comprehensive understanding of these positions can assist individuals in better understanding their dogs' requirements and health. In Shannan Humphrey's article titled "What Your Dog's Sleeping Position Really Means," the author explores the top ten sleeping positions of dogs, each providing valuable insights into a dog's comfort, security, and personality traits.

PETS

DOG SLEEPING POSITIONS

the most common positions is the side sleeper. Dogs that sleep on their side with their legs extended are usually in a state of deep relaxation and trust. This position often indicates that the dog feels safe and comfortable in its environment. Side sleeping is typical among puppies and older dogs who might have stiff joints. Humphrey notes that these dogs are likely to get the deepest sleep, as evidenced by the twitching and 'sleep running' often observed during their dreams. In the lion's pose, dogs rest with their head on top of their paws, sometimes with their front paws tucked in and their back legs to one side. This position signifies a state of light rest, where the dog is not in deep slumber and can easily be vigilant if needed. Dogs that sleep in this manner are often watchful and loyal, typically selecting locations where they can maintain awareness of their surroundings, such as near their owners' feet or by the entrance of a space.

By Mariana Burgos

AS THE weather becomes warmer and nature begins to thrive, it is important to be aware of potential hazards that could impact our pets. One such danger to be mindful of during the spring and summer months is the presence of snakes. While most wildlife poses minimal risk to our pets, encounters with snakes, whether venomous or non-venomous, can pose significant threats to their health and safety.

As temperatures rise during the spring and summer months, snakes become more active as they seek out warmth and food. It is important to be aware that interactions between snakes and pets can potentially lead to bites, which, if left untreated, can have serious repercussions. Knowing how to identify, address, and treat snake bites in pets is essential to ensure their health and security.

Understanding Snake Bites Snakes may bite in defense when they feel

The prone position, where dogs lie on their belly with their legs outstretched, is frequently observed in puppies and highly active dogs. This posture indicates that the dog is fatigued but alert and prepared to engage in activity. As per Humphrey, these dogs are playful and full of energy, often adopting this position after engaging in vigorous exercise. Dogs that curl up into a ball with their limbs tucked close to their body and sometimes draping their tail over themselves are often seeking warmth and protection. This position is common in new dogs acclimating to their environment. Humphrey explains that curling up preserves body heat and may also be a defensive posture for anxious dogs.

The cuddler position, where dogs sleep on top of their owners or another dog, is a clear expression of love and bonding. Dogs that prefer this position seek closeness and affection, indicating a strong bond with their owners or other pets. These dogs are affectionate and will do anything to sleep next to their loved ones.

Perhaps the most endearing of all is the belly-up position, where dogs lie on their back with their paws in the air. Despite its seemingly uncomfortable appearance, this position signals true comfort and relaxation. Dogs that sleep in this manner are fully trusting of their environment, as exposing their belly is a vulnerable position. Humphrey points out that this posture also helps dogs cool down since they sweat through their paws and their belly is a major source of heat.

For dogs that like to burrow under blankets or pillows, this behavior indicates a need for comfort

information provided by the Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies in their publication "How To Treat Your Dog For Snake Bites," it is noted that the symptoms' severity may vary depending on the type of snake and the quantity of venom administered. Venomous snakes, like rattlesnakes, have the potential to inject a lethal dose of venom, whereas non-venomous snakes may result in pain and infection at the site of the bite.

Recognizing Symptoms

It is important to be able to recognize the signs of a snake bite on a pet in order to provide timely treatment. Symptoms may include sudden weakness, trembling muscles, vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, paralysis, and visible bite wounds. However, as outlined in "A Guide To Snake Bites On Dogs" by the Animal Emergency Service, some pets may experience collapse followed by a seemingly quick recovery, which can make identifying the bite challenging at first.

and security. Burrowers are often affectionate but can be needy, requiring plenty of attention and affection to feel secure. Humphrey suggests adding blankets to their bed to fulfill this need.

Dogs that sleep back-to-back with their owners or other dogs are displaying a form of intimate affection and trust. This position is a sign of love and comfort, indicating that the dog feels safest with the person or pet they are sleeping next to. This behavior highlights the dog’s desire for closeness and security.

Some dogs prefer to sleep with their head and neck raised, often propping themselves up on a pillow or the side of their bed. This position could indicate breathing issues, so it’s important to monitor for symptoms like faster breathing or noisy respiration. Humphrey advises consulting a vet if these signs are present.

Finally, dogs that seek out cold surfaces to sleep on are usually trying to cool down. Whether lying on the kitchen floor or the pavement, these dogs are likely to make sure their belly is in contact with the cool surface to regulate their body temperature. Humphrey recommends ensuring these dogs have access to cool water and a way to stay cool in warm environments.

In addition to sleeping positions, Humphrey discusses various sleeping behaviors that provide further insight into a dog’s sleep quality. Dreaming in dogs is similar to humans, with their brain processing daily events during sleep. Twitching, barking, or running movements in their sleep typically

occur during dreams. Snoring is common in breeds with breathing issues or short noses, such as pugs and bulldogs. Dogs may also circle or dig before settling down to sleep, a behavior thought to be instinctual, making their sleeping area more comfortable. Understanding these sleeping positions and behaviors can deepen the bond between dogs and their owners, providing a window into the dog's comfort and emotional state. By paying attention to how and where dogs sleep, owners can better cater to their pets' needs, ensuring they feel secure, loved, and well-rested. As Humphrey’s comprehensive exploration into dog sleeping positions reveals, even the subtlest behaviors can offer significant insights into our furry friends' well-being.

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist, writer, and tutor. She has been a solo parent for 17 years now because she is the wife of Jonas Burgos, a Filipino desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as

take immediate action. As outlined in the guidelines provided by the Animal Emergency Service, it is crucial to seek veterinary care promptly. While transporting the pet to the clinic, there are steps that owners can take to reduce the impact of venom, including Veterinary Treatment

Upon arrival at the veterinary clinic, the pet will undergo a thorough assessment to evaluate the extent of the bite and determine the most suitable treatment plan. Treatment options may include administering antivenom, providing hospitalization for necessary care, and closely monitoring for any potential complications. The decision to administer antivenom will be made based on various factors including the species of snake involved, results of blood tests, and the overall clinical condition of the animal.

Prevention Measures

considering rattlesnake vaccination, as recommended in 'How To Treat Your Dog For Snake Bites,' can offer additional protection. Snake bites on pets can pose a serious risk to their health and safety. It is crucial for pet owners to be aware of the signs of a snake bite, seek timely

While encounters with snakes may occur, there are proactive measures that pet owners can implement to minimize the risk of snake bites. Maintaining cleanliness in backyard areas, eliminating potential hiding spots for snakes, and closely monitoring pets during outdoor activities can effectively reduce the likelihood of encounters. Furthermore, enrolling pets in rattlesnake aversion training and

A dog doing the belly-up sleeping position.

(Photo from iStock royaltyfree images.)

Two dogs sleeping with the prone position. (Photo from iStock royalty- free images.)

A dog captures a snake with his mouth. (Photo from iStock royalty-free images.) A cat is poised to attack a snake in the garden. (Photo from iStock royalty-free images.)

JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor

email: joyce.panares@gmail.com

for

HIGH TIME HIGH TEA

By Ratziel San Juan

NESTLED in the newly opened Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila is an experience best described as "sophis-tea-cated."

K-POP girl group TWICE has bared which Filipino food cravings and go-to snacks they want to try “more and more” of.

During the recently held TWICE x Oishi Snacktacular Press Conference, the ninepiece group confirmed that among the offerings of their partner snack brand, the standout was none other than Miggos. This is Oishi’s thin traditional style tortilla chips in sweet corn flavor, which was specifically endorsed by the “corny corny” sub-unit consisting of members Jeongyeon and Dahyun.. According to Nayeon, as translated by the on-ground translator: “Their (TWICE’s) favorite is actually really Miggos. So even though they were in Korea, they were asking for more

stocks of these Miggos for them to try more.”

“When they came here in the Philippines yesterday, they were able to try some new products or new crackers and new snacks of Oishi. They really love the delicious crackers of Oishi.”

Sana then revealed that when they were departing for Manila, Jeongyeon even distributed Miggos to Korean media, who described the snack as “so delicious.”

As for their favorite Filipino food, Jihyo revealed that they weren’t able to try local cuisine yet. However, she personally wants to try the crushed-ice dessert of halo-halo, which reminds her of the Korean shaved-ice dessert known as bingsu. Ratziel San Juan

The tranquil restaurant of Madeleine High Tea, located on the ground floor of the Ballroom lobby, is open only from Fridays to Sundays between 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

It invites guests to partake in an intimate, bayside tea party tucked away in the premier destination of Lanson Place.

The venue’s enhanced plush seating and corner-to-corner pastels give off an easygoing ambience, creating the ideal backdrop for small gatherings, business meetings, and classic R&R.

“High tea is a time for conversation,” Madeleine welcomes its patrons. “As you savor its serene atmosphere with friends, you can sample its premium teas, innovative pastries, and cakes that blend traditional and contemporary high tea flavors.”

High society

Here, guests can choose from a meticulously crafted selection of premium teas sourced from Agusan Del Norte, which are accompanied by cakes and pastries that blend classic

and modern high tea flavors.

COCA-COLA Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI)—the bottling arm of Coca-Cola in the country—sealed its partnership with Mama Lou's Group Holdings Inc., the brand behind the Philippines' beloved Italian restaurant chain, Mama Lou’s, to bring refreshing and remarkable dining experiences to more Filipinos.

"We are truly excited to delight our customers together with Mama Lou’s Group—where every meal that is paired with a refreshing glass of Coca-Cola is a joyful celebration of togetherness and an opportunity to make life more enjoyable. It's a privilege for us to be in this partnership and we appreciate the trust David, Crystal, and the team have placed in us. We look forward to many years of success for Mama Lou’s Group,” said Gareth McGeown, CCBPI President and CEO. David Sison, CEO of Mama Lou’s Group, added: “Mama Lou’s is all about bringing meaningful experiences to Filipino diners, and with Coca-Cola as a partner—a staple beverage in Filipino gatherings—we can spark more joy. We are grateful for the opportunity and are excited that our restaurant chains are now carrying the iconic taste of Coca-Cola products to complement our customers’ favorites."

These include Earl Grey, Chamomile, Mint, Long Black, Americano, Cappuccino, Latte, Hello Sunshine, Merry Berry, Oasis, Forest Pearl, Golden Monkey, and Peach Oolong.

Nature’s Apothecary carefully concocted these teas to balance natural flavors and aromas with traditional and contemporary high tea elements.

Patrons can also choose from three sets of sweet and savory treats: Traditional, Contemporary, and Signature. For instance, the Signature set includes mini truffle chicken bao buns, mini siu bao, shrimp toast, fish and asparagus pillow puffs, coconut peanut mochi, Hong Kong egg tarts, mango pudding, tea cookies, flavored pineapple bun, and mooncake.

“Our goal is to provide a space where guests can relax and connect, whether they’re here for business or leisure,” Lanson Place’s Director of Food and Beverage Deczle Enriquez said.

and CCBPI National Business Development Manager Joseph Michael Go

Diners can now enjoy a variety of Coca-Cola products—such as the iconic Coca-Cola, Royal, Sprite, A&W, and Wilkins—in all Mama Lou's Italian Kitchen, Mama Lou’s Premio Ristorante, Nonna's Gourmet Italian, FAMU | Filipino Flavors, and The Burger Club.

Mama Lou’s, which opened its first location at BF Homes Las Pinas in 2010, has since become one of the leading Filipino brands that specializes in Italian cuisine. Currently maintaining over 26 bustling outlets throughout the country, its impressive growth sets it apart as one of the most rapidly expanding restaurant chains in the Philippines. McGeown noted the collaboration between Mama Lou's and Coca-Cola was a natural fit, given the brands' much-loved standing among Filipinos.

"It's through partnerships like this—where we share a one heartfelt goal marked with good food and refreshing beverages—that Coca-Cola has been able to call the Philippines home for 112 years. We will continue to create new moments of happiness for Filipinos through our great people, great beverages, great execution, and great partners like Mama Lou’s Group,” he said.

Have a 'sophis-tea-cated' experience at Madeleine High Tea.

Sealing the momentous collaboration are key representatives from Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI) and Mama Lou’s Group (MLG): CCBPI National On-Premise Head Cynthia Banaria, MLG Co-Founder and Managing Directress Crystal Sison, CCBPI President and CEO Gareth McGeown, MLG Co-Founder, President and CEO David Sison, CCBPI Modern Trade Director April Apsay,

YOUNG INNOVATORS

PROPOSE DESIGN SOLUTIONS FOR COMMUTERS, TOURISTS

YOUNG Filipino students created urban refuge and hospitality design solutions to address the Philippines’ pressing issues in the transportation and tourism sectors in the recent 2024 Nippon Paint Young Designer Award (NPYDA).

Established by Nippon Paint Philippines Inc. in 2008, the nationwide competition serves as a platform to motivate future artists through collaborative learning experiences and develop valuable connections with influential figures in the industry.

Themed “Converge: Championing Purposeful Design,” this year’s event encouraged learners pursuing Interior Design and Architecture Programs to reshape future spaces and craft practical proposal strategies.

Emylia Ginelle Poblete, an Interior Design student of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), proposed “Da-an,” an urban refuge project for passengers. By creating a liminal zone near the transit places, it sought to provide a sanctuary dedicated to travelers to ease their stress amid the uncomfortable transportation system.

It featured public services such as pharmacies, convenience stores, food courts, lounges, libraries, and gardens. It also offered private amenities such as music and nap pods with

By Angelica Villanueva

THE University of the Philippines (UP)

Diliman has been named the top university in the Philippines in the 2025 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings.

aromatherapy oils, meditation areas, restrooms, and shower rooms.

To promote sustainability, the layout incorporated open areas and low-emissivity film-coated glass panels to regulate indoor temperature. It utilized renewable materials such as Aria lightweight mineral coating furniture, natural woods, and rattan accent veneers for wall panels and ceilings.

“‘Da-an’ embodies humanness while celebrating the power of interiors to empathize with its users and connect with the environment,” Poblete added.

Maria Beatrice De Vega, an aspiring creative from the Benilde Interior Design Program, showcased the experiential hub entitled “Pahiwaga”. She sought to give the visitors a

glimpse of the natural beauty and unique heritage of the municipality of Siquijor.

The island located in the Central Visayas region has been perpetuated over time with frightening stories that involved witchcraft, mysticism, and supernatural events that gave fear and terror to visitors. With these unsubstantiated misconceptions, “Pahiwaga” embraced maximalism through mixed patterns and saturated colors in the walls and floors. It incorporated multiple fabrics and numerous accessories in the rooms as they mirrored the richness and vibrancy of the island’s ancestry.

It also employed the stillness of nature and biophilic design through wood furnishings and luscious green plants to encapsulate the breathtaking view of Siquijor.

“By unveiling the island’s true essence, Pahiwaga aspires to rewrite the narrative and discover the authentic charm of the province has to offer,” De Vega highlighted.

Poblete and De Vega were hailed among the Top Seven finalists of the 2024 NPYDA. They were guided and mentored by practitioner and educator IDr. Candice Arboleda

For more information on the 2024 NPYDA, visit youngdesigneraward.ph.

UP moved up to the 336th spot in the world, improving from its 404th place in 2024.

UP’s highest score was in Sustainability, with 67.7

out of 100, highlighting its commitment to sustainable practices. The university scored 65.6 in Employment Outcomes, indicating high graduate employability, and 65.3 in Employer Reputation, reflecting strong employer appreciation. Additionally, UP earned 60.9 for its network with international research institutions and 36.3 in academic reputation. Overall, the national university had a rating of 33.3. Following UP in the higher education rankings are Ateneo de Manila University at 516th and De La Salle University within the 641-650 bracket. The University of Santo Tomas landed in the 851-900 bracket, while the University of San Carlos ranked 1401+.

On a regional scale, the National University of Singapore emerged as the top Asian university, followed by China’s Peking University and Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University. The QS ranking system considers various factors, including a university’s sustainability efforts, graduate employability, and its international research network. QS is an international organization based in London that analyzes trends in higher education.

RAINE Santiago Nakpil, a Communications student at the University of the Philippines-Diliman and alumna ambassador of the 2016 Cha-Ching program, exemplifies the impact of financial literacy education on young learners. Her journey highlights the transformative power of ChaChing, a globally acclaimed financial education program created by Prudence Foundation, the community investment arm of Prudential plc.

Launched in the Philippines in 2016 with Junior Achievement Philippines, Cha-Ching features animated, music-based cartoons made

with Cartoon Network Asia and Emmy award-winning Children’s Educational Specialist Dr. Alice Wilder, along with a school curriculum to instill positive money values in children.

Raine fondly recalls watching Cha-Ching as a child, saying, “The upbeat songs and characters singing ‘Earn, Save, Spend, and Donate’ have stayed with me, shaping my approach to financial management even eight years later.”

Cha-Ching emphasizes financial literacy, equipping young learners to make informed decisions through engaging, character-based education.

Raine credits Cha-Ching for shaping her financial values. She recalls, “What started as simple lyrics have transformed into values I live by today.” Prudence Foundation and Junior Achievement Philippines celebrated reaching over one million students with Cha-Ching, training 28,000 teachers by February 2024. This milestone underscores Pru Life UK and Prudence Foundation’s dedication to financial education. Raine, now a program volunteer, expresses gratitude for the encouragement and support from Pru Life UK.

Raine Santiago Nakpil is currently a volunteer of Cha-Ching program

Pahiwaga Healing Arts is a bastion of maximalism utilizing wood furnishings and green plants

Emylia Ginelle Poblete’s ‘Da-an’ aims to be an urban refuge project for passengers

Maria Beatrice De Vega’s ‘Pahiwaga’ is an experiential hub aiming to provide visitors with a glimpse of Siquijor’s beauty and heritage

Da-an Commuter’s Lounge features public services as well as private amenities

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

email: lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

A BRAVE AND UNAPOLOGETIC HERO

By Nickie Wang

HERO is an upand-coming artist known for his participation in Gloc 9’s #44 Bar Challenge, a massively popular competition for rap enthusiasts. He is re-introducing, this time not on the rap battle arena, but on music streaming platforms with his newest single, “Asa Ka.”

The track, characterized by its fiery energy and uncompromising lyrics, addresses themes of deception and manipulation head-on.

Featuring a blend of catchy beats and honest storytelling, “Asa Ka” delivers a strong message of being tough and empowered. The chorus, for instance, is highlighted by the assertive line “ Hindi mo na ko maloloko, asa ka ” (You can’t fool me anymore, stop hoping), which serves as a declaration of defiance against those who seek to deceive.

In the verses, Hero confronts the individuals attempting to bring him down, urging them to rethink their actions and find redemption elsewhere. Lines such as “Kahit maglumpasay ka dyan sa kakaiyak, pakealam ko sayo?” (Even if you cry your heart out, why should I care?) underscore Hero’s unwavering determination.

Managed and produced by Asintada Mgmt and Prod Inc., led by CEO Thea Pollisco, Hero’s latest release underscores the label’s commitment to supporting talented artists and amplifying their voices.

“The song aims to resonate with audiences. It encourages listeners to embrace their true selves and stand up against deception,” Hero said. Watch “Asa Ka” Music Video] (https://youtu.be/ R4wijiQTX_w?si=F59gZQMZenXXTSqR

13 and enters the chaotic stage of puberty.

The first film introduced viewers to Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust in the mind of 11-year-old Riley. It helped kids and parents talk about complex emotions and concepts like ‘core memories.’ Now a teenager, Riley’s mind undergoes

VIEWERS are in for more amazing Sundays as GMA Public Affairs’ long-running infotainment program, AHA! bares its latest family-friendly offering, AHA! Adventures AHA! Adventures breaks new ground as host Drew Arellano and his guests, including wellloved GMA Kapuso stars, immerse themselves in the heart of animated storytelling. With various captivating fantasy narratives, AHA! Adventures is set to enchant viewers while imparting valuable life lessons for all ages. This innovative fusion of live-action and 2D and 3D animation brings a fresh, dynamic approach to educational programming. Drew reflects on how AHA! has continued to evolve throughout the years. “AHA! has been around for more than 14 years, and it’s

PIXAR TACKLES ANXIETY, FINDING JOY IN ‘INSIDE OUT 2’

Actor Royce Cabrera portrays a giant human in ‘AHA! Adventures’

Host Drew Arellano and his guests will be immersing themselves in an animated world to convey

story filled with life lessons

The sequel to the hit film introduces new emotions to Riley’s psyche like Anxiety and Envy

HOSPITALITY

AFFORDABLE LUXURY EXPERIENCE AT THE HEART OF THE METRO

By Abigail Adriatico

IN A bustling metropolis like BGC, travelers often find themselves looking for a comfortable and stylish place to stay without being too far away from the attractions that the city offers.

Red Planet Hotels aims to cater to those looking for a stylish and cozy yet budget-friendly experience in Taguig with its newest property, Red Planet Hotel BGC. Unveiled on May 30, the Red Planet Hotel BGC offers comfortable rooms with high-quality amenities while being close to goto areas in the city.

The hotel has 245 modern and minimalist rooms, with four rooms especially catered for those who are differently-abled. Guests can opt for rooms with either a queen-sized bed or twin beds. For families and groups staying together, the hotel also has several connecting rooms that they can avail of. Each room is equipped with powerful rain showers, minirefrigerators, and safety boxes. It also has WIFI 6, which guarantees high-speed connectivity as well as Google

Chromecast for those wanting to stream their favorite shows and films effortlessly. Red Planet Hotels CEO Florent Humeau said that while Red Planet BGC offers an affordable price as it serves as the first budget hotel in the area, it still provides a high-quality

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experience to all of its guests.

“We’re not cutting costs in terms of building the hotel and ensuring its efficiency. We provide the best quality, despite being a budget hotel,” said Humeau.

Apart from providing high-quality rooms, the hotel has also been making more sustainable efforts with the removal of free plastic bottles and simply opting for a water dispenser that guests can utilize at their own convenience. While complimentary items such as toothbrushes and slippers are also no longer being offered in rooms to lessen waste, guests can avail of them at the front desk for a small fee of P35.

To provide further convenience to those who have vehicles, guests are provided with complimentary indoor parking during their stay.

Some of BGC’s attractions like Uptown Mall, Bonifacio High Street, and The Mind Museum are also near the hotel, which makes Red Planet BGC perfect for travelers looking to explore the city’s offerings while also wanting a comfortable place to rest afterward.

“We aim to provide a space where travelers can unwind after exploring Taguig,” said Humeau. Guests are highly encouraged to download the Red Planet Hotels app as they can avail of a lifetime discount on rooms as well as a special 25 percent discount during their birth month.

experiences and stories to tell.

Serene ambiance lingers in the luxury nature estate of Manami Resort. Where time slows to a gentle rhythm, cocooned from the bustling world outside, unwind and reconnect

Red Planet BGC