Manila Standard - 2024 June 10 - Monday

‘Watch out for China moles’

Navy spokesman: Penetration all over

CHINA’S “penetration” into the economic and political affairs of the Philippines should be a cause for vigilance, according to Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Roy Trinidad.

This statement came in the heels of numerous reports, saying that Chinese incursion has not only been active in the West Philippine Sea, but also across the national instruments of power, including economics, political and even educational institutions.

Trinidad says this goes beyond coincidental, thus a serious reason to be vigilant because of the security threats they pose, Trinidad said in an interview with DZBB.

Iloilo Business Park

2nd town in state of calamity; Vog alert in Taal

By Caloy Lozada

LA

CASTELLANA , Negros Oc-

cidental—The municipality of La Castellana has imposed a curfew and declared a state of calamity to ensure the safety of its residents amid Mount Kanlaon’s prolonged restiveness.

Municipal Mayor Alme Rhummyla Nicor-Mangilimutan issued Executive Order (EO) 024-028, enforcing a curfew from 9:00 PM to 4:00 AM beginning Friday, June 7, to regulate public and non-essential activities, minimizing risks associated with the volcanic activity.

Mount Kanlaon erupted on June 3, triggering lahar flows that affected several barangays in the province, including those located in the small town of La Castellana—home to

By Rio N. Araja

By Vince Lopez

TO REINFORCE the principles of his governance agenda, President Marcos has issued a directive mandating the recital of the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ hymn and pledge during weekly flag ceremonies across all government offices and educational institutions.

Megaworld’s 72-hectare Iloilo Business Park township occupies what used to be the Old Mandurriao Airport of Iloilo City. The 1.8-kilometer Megaworld Boulevard, which used to be the old airport runway, now serves as an eight-lane thoroughfare of the township, providing commuters and residents a wide, paved road as well as dedicated lanes for bikers.

Fight for freedom, sovereignty a continuing one—PBBM

PRESIDENT Marcos Jr. on Sunday underscored the importance of continuing the fight for freedom, especially in protecting the Philippines’ territory and sovereignty.

“Sa nakaraang 126 taon at hanggang ngayon ay patuloy nating pinaglalaban

ang ating kalayaan, kalayaan sa iba’t ibang aspeto ng ating pagka-Pilipino, higit dito, kalayaan sa ating teritoryo at ating soberanya,” the President said in a vlog uploaded on his social media pages.

NSC chief rejects asking Ayungin permit from China, calls it ‘absurd, unacceptable’

NATIONAL Security Adviser Eduardo Año said on Saturday that the statement of China’s Foreign Ministry that we should first notify China to get access to Ayungin Shoal is “absurd, nonsense and unacceptable.”

“We do not and will never need China’s approval for any of our activities therein,” he added.

China’s Foreign Ministry said on Friday that it will only “allow” the Philippines to ship supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre if the

“We reaffirm our commitment to uphold our sovereign rights and jurisdiction over Ayungin Shoal, which is well within our EEZ as recognized by international law and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” Año said in a statement.

The move aims to foster a sense of unity and patriotism among government employees and students nationwide, according to a news release published by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Sunday, June 9.

agencies, including state-owned cor porations, and educational institutions to incorporate the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ hymn and pledge in their flag-raising activities.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed a memorandum dated June 4, instructing all national government

“The heads of all national govern ment agencies and instrumentalities shall ensure that the Bagong

of

led by the

Chamber of Commerce Inc. (FCCCI) president Cecilio Pedro and China envoy Huang Xilian. The march, which ended at the

and

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Zubiri firms up anti-divorce stance in visit to Pope

SENATOR Juan Miguel Zubiri justified his position against the divorce legislation with a personal visit to Pope Francis in Vatican City recently, during which the lawmaker said he received instruction to “protect the family.”

“Pope Francis asked me to please protect the family, and this is an instruction that I will take to heart,” Zubiri said in a statement released in Tagalog last Friday, June 7. The senator traveled to the Holy See together with his wife Audrey and their three children last Wednesday, June 5.

A devout Catholic, Zubiri met with the Pope during the latter’s weekly catechesis and prayers for world peace. The Philippines remains the last country in the world not legalizing divorce.

A proposed legislation on ‘Absolute Divorce’ has already been in the House of Representatives. Its version in the Senate, however, has not yet been transmitted for deliberations. Zubiri did not consider the divorce bill as a priority measure during his leadership in the upper chamber. His successor, Senate President Francis Escudero, also

Padilla joined the First Lady in the ribbon-cutting

doors to the public for free starting June 12.

Kartilya ng Katipunan in Manila, aims to foster unity

brotherhood. Danny Pata

MegaStan

PBBM: Be present at ICT summit

By Vince Lopez

PRESIDENT Marcos urged all government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and other organizations in the public sector to participate in the upcoming 2024 National Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Summit to be held on June 18 to 19, 2024.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is hosting the summit themed “Digital Governance: Navigating the Future” at

the Crown Plaza Manila Galleria in Ortigas Center.

The mandatory attendance of public sector organizations was ordered via

Memorandum Circular No. 54 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Friday, June 7, Malacañang announced.

“All departments, agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, government financial institutions, state universities and colleges, and all local government units are encouraged to support the DICT in the conduct of the 2024 National ICT Summit,” President Marcos said in his memo.

The President also ordered to au -

thorize their respective ICT executives, chief information officers, technical staff, academics, and key personnel to attend and participate in the Summit “on official time, provided that they are issued the pertinent clearances or authorities by their respective heads of offices.”

Mr. Marcos said government agencies and all instrumentalities should ensure that “their participation in the upcoming summit will not adversely affect agency operations, as well as the delivery of services to the public.”

BPSF in Davao a show of unity

By Rio N. Araja

MEMBERS of the House of Representatives on Sunday described the presence of 167 lawmakers in the recent Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte as an “unprecedented show of unity” with the appearance of former President and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Arroyo.

talities shall ensure that the Bagong Pilipinas Hymn and Pledge, which are annexed to this Circular, are properly disseminated within their respective institutions and offices,” the memo stated.

PCO has been tasked with overseeing the effective communication and widespread dissemination of the hymn and pledge. This measure is designed to align government operations with the values of ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ and promote active citizen participation in governance.

The Bagong Pilipinas initiative represents the administration’s brand of governance and leadership, guiding all government entities to uphold the principles of integrity, accountability, and unified societal institutions.

It envisions a government that inspires and empowers Filipinos to engage in the transformative process aimed at deep and fundamental social and economic reforms across all sectors.

Under this directive, educational institutions and government offices are expected to follow Section 18 of Republic Act (RA) No. 8491, also known as the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.”

The law mandates flag-raising ceremonies every Monday morning and flag-lowering ceremonies every Friday afternoon. The integration of the Bagong Pilipinas Hymn and Pledge is set to become a key component of these activities.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court-Office of the Court Administrator (SC-OCA) will be conducting a probe into allegations that the influence of illegal offshore gaming operators in the country may have already reached the judiciary.

SC spokesperson Camille Sue Mae Ting revealed that the OCA is now looking into the claim of the Philippine AntiOrganized Crime Commission (PAOCC) that a trial court in Malolos, Bulacan recalled the search warrant it issued early this month that prompted their operatives to call off a planned raid on a POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga.

PAOCC spokesman Winston John Casio claimed that the court withdrew the search warrant on mere technicalities and denied the agency’s application for a new warrant.

Due to the lack of a search warrant, Casio said PAOCC operatives failed to conduct a raid on the compound of the Lucky South 99 on FilAm Friendship Highway.

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation however said alien hacking and scam syndicates (AHaSS) are the real threat to national security,

not legitimate and licensed offshore gaming operators called POGOs.

In a statement yesterday, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco said legitimate Internet Gaming Licensees or IGLs generate funds for the government, contributing more than Php5 billion to PAGCOR’s gross revenues in 2023.

“To us, the real threat are the alien hacking and scam syndicates who operate underground, and they are the ones that our law enforcement agencies are trying to locate and dismantle,” Mr. Tengco said. “And we are cooperating fully with the authorities in this regard.” (Full story on B3)

The Navy official called on Filipinos living in areas where the presence of security forces are scarce to be watchful and observant, ready to report to authorities any suspicious or untoward activities of Chinese nationals.

While Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), he said, may not constitute, as of the moment, a security threat, Filipinos should remain mindful and aware of their operations.

“There are common crimes that happen in these POGOs. Why do they have high-powered firearms? They also have violations in our Customs Law and at the Land Transportation

Office. Why do they have high-end sports cars, as if they are legal businessmen?” Trinidad said.

A recent raid in Pampanga of a POGO hub in Porac town revealed cash, jewelry, and suspected illegal drugs

Authorities on Saturday recovered bundles of cash, jewelry, and suspected illegal drugs in the latest raid at a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator hub in Porac town in Pampanga.

The seized items were wads of cash worth P60,000, about 10 sachets of suspected shabu, computers and parts, cellphones, assorted jewelry, and torture devices. They were discovered inside seven buildings within Luck South 99 during the search.

Authorities will continue the search on Sunday for suspects and possible victims of torture. The plan is to clear 40 buildings within Lucky South 99 and adjacent establishments.

Another POGO hub was raided on Thursday by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).

According to Casio, the PAOCC is now investigating a possible leak in information on the raid, citing reports that people were seen leaving the Lucky South 99 compound 30 minutes after it applied for a search warrant last June 4.

“Uniteam is alive and well in Tagum City, Davao del Norte! What we have seen is an unprecedented show of unity among lawmakers for a program that highlights our commitment to bringing essential government services directly to the people, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind,” Davao Oriental Rep. Cheeno Miguel Almario said.

A total of P913 million worth of government services and financial assistance was rolled out to 250,000 residents in Davao del Norte, also the biggest number of beneficiaries recorded in all of the 19 installments of the BPSF.

BPSF, a primary program spearheaded by President Ferdinand Marcos and Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, has been instrumental in delivering financial aid, livelihood assistance, and other critical government services to various regions and provinces.

“The fair in Davao del Norte is a testament to the Marcos administration’s dedication to serving its citizens and the efforts of the House of Representatives under Speaker Romualdez in fostering national development through direct engagement and support,” Almario said.

Zambales Rep. Dori Maniquiz said the attendance of 167 members of the House of Representatives in Davao del Norte is an inspiring show of unity among members of the House, citing the remarkable turnout of beneficiaries.

held a similar view.

“We prayed for our beloved country and for our leaders to always find discernment and to do what is right, even when it is not popular,” said Zubiri.

While he is open to discussions on divorce, the former Senate President noted that he maintains a strong belief in the sanctity and insolubility of marriage.

The Zubiri family was among the handful of guests, who had a chance to meet and receive a personal blessing from the Pope this week.

During the meeting, Zubiri explained to the Pope that he is a prolife and pro-family legislator from the Philippines, to which the Pope responded by asking him to “please protect the family.”

The senator assured he will always remember the Pope’s reminder, “and I am going to do my best to protect the family values that hold our nation together.”

that it will only “allow” the Philippines to ship supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre if the country “notifies China in advance”.

However, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that the Philippines “may not use this as an excuse to transport materials of construction to its naval vessels in an attempt to permanently occupy Renai Reef [Second Thomas Shoal].”

The comment from the Chinese Foreign Ministry was a response to the Philippine Coast Guard’s report that China interrupted the evacuation of Filipino servicemen bound for medical treatment.

Año likewise called out China’s earlier incursions in the West Philippine Sea, calling them “reprehensible” and should warrant an inquiry.

“The incident on May 19, 2024, involving the China Coast Guard’s aggressive actions against a Filipino vessel evacuating a sick soldier from the BRP Sierra Madre is barbaric and inhumane. Such actions are not only viola-

tions of international maritime laws but also of basic human rights,” Año said.

“The recent reports of Chinese forces allegedly seizing food and medical supplies meant for our advance post in Ayungin Shoal are equally reprehensible and warrant a thorough investigation and accountability,” he also added.

The Philippines will continue its maintenance and supply operations to its outposts, including the BRP Sierra Madre, without need of China’s permission.

“Nonetheless, the Philippines remains open to dialogue and peaceful negotiations to resolve disputes in the entire South China Sea,” Año said.

“However, such dialogue must be based on mutual respect and adherence to international law. We call on China to respect the arbitral ruling and to cease any actions that escalate tensions or undermine regional stability.”

Meanwhile, in a forum led by international think tank, Stratbase ADR Institute, in partnership with the Embassy of Australia in the Philippines, maritime specialists say that stronger partnerships with like-minded nations are crucial in improving maritime and economic security in the region.

The hybrid event titled “Forging

Bonds: Exploring the Nexus Between Maritime Security and Economic Security” was held in Makati City on Thursday.

Acting Deputy Ambassador Johanna Stratton of the Embassy of Australia in the Philippines opened the discussion by emphasizing the “unprecedented” maritime cooperation between Manila and Canberra.

She also stressed the need for alliances to ensure “a stable and secure IndoPacific region, where our maritime and marine environments are protected.”

“Australia is deeply concerned when countries pursue claims or engage in activities that are inconsistent with international law, when they undertake activities that are provocative and destabilizing, when they don’t respect the freedoms and rights of others, and when they advance their claims by intimidation or coercion,” Stratton said.

Stratbase President Dindo Manhit said bolstering cooperation with partners like Australia is a tactical move.

“We, at Stratbase ADRi, believe that enhanced cooperation with likeminded states is key to the Philippines achieving both maritime and

“During the event, we witnessed firsthand the positive impact of government welfare and social amelioration programs on the lives of Filipino families. This is direct help, without going through red tape or middlemen. The people feel the help from the government,” he said.

“This gathering marks the largest attendance of House members at a BPSF event, underscoring the significance of unity and cooperation in achieving our national goals. Our presence in Davao del Norte not only demonstrates our support for the program but also our commitment to public service and community engagement,” he added.

Manila Rep. Ernesto Dionisio said that he has personally seen how the BPSF served as a crucial platform for connecting government services with the needs of the people.

we allow it.”

“But we never said yes,” he added. Under the law, those unconsolidated PUVs have already lost their franchises, he said, asking “what strike are they talking about.”

The government would issue a show-cause order against operators and drivers who would join the transport strike.

Manibela president Mar Valbuena earlier said 25,000 of their members are joining the three-day strike.

roughly 79,492 residents.

Exemptions to the curfew include government employees working during curfew hours, personnel of private offices, medical professionals, and public utility workers.

Nicor-Mangilimutan has urged all establishments, offices, and places of worship to adjust their operating hours in line with the curfew. Those who need to work during curfew hours must present their identification cards at checkpoints.

The declaration of a state of calamity comes in response to the severe impact of Mt. Kanlaon’s eruption, which resulted in significant ash fall and lahar flows that have disrupted daily life and caused flooding in numerous barangays.

The Negros Occidental Provincial Government has confirmed water shortages in evacuation centers in

La Castellana. Immediate relief efforts are underway, with the provincial government, private entities, and non-government organizations providing necessary supplies, including drinking water for the evacuees.

To address the critical water shortage, the Philippine Red Cross-Bacolod City Chapter has deployed water tanks with a capacity of 10,000 liters to four barangays, including two locations in La Carlota City. This measure is intended to ensure that affected residents in evacuation centers have access to clean water.

According to local government data, the eruption has affected 184 families, comprising a total of 691 individuals. La Castellana is working diligently to support and provide relief to those impacted by the disaster.

Canlaon City in Negros Oriental had already declared a state of calamity due to the volcanic eruption. Efforts are be -

ing coordinated continuously to mitigate the disaster’s impact and provide aid to affected residents, ensuring their safety and recovery.

Alert Level 2 remains over Kanlaon, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). As of 9:30 PM on June 8, it said the volcano had an elevated sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas emission from its crater.

“The volcano has been degassing increased concentrations of volcanic SO2 this year at an average rate of 1,458 tons/ day, but emission since the 3 June 2024 eruption has been particularly elevated at a current average of 3,347 tons/day,” Phivolcs said in its latest advisory.

The state seismic agency also monitored an average of 33 volcanic earthquakes per day since the June 3 eruption of Mount Kanlaon.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) advised the public must wear face masks due to the degassing of Taal Vol-

exclusive economic zone.

cano in Batangas. Phivolcs explained that face masks are mandatory for residents near Taal to minimize risks of breathing difficulties.

“We advise the people (to wear masks) because if sulfur dioxide (SO2) is not dispersed immediately, it can form vog,” Phivolcs said in its advisory, referring to the presence of volcanic smog.

Taal Volcano emitted at least 11,072 tons of SO2 last Thursday, June 6. From 12 a.m. Saturday to 12 a.m. Sunday, Phivolcs recorded one volcanic earthquake based on its latest monitoring. An upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the main crater was observed last Saturday. Vog or volcanic smog was also detected.

The volcano emitted voluminous plumes as tall as 2,400 meters before drifting north-northwest. Alert Level 1 (low-level unrest) remained in effect over Taal Volcano, which is in Batangas.

Marcos Jr. issued the statement using snippets of his keynote speech at the International Institute for Strategic Studies’ Shangrila Dialogue where he lambasted China’s illegal incursions in the Philippines’

LIFESIZE HEROES.

Visitors were treated with more than 100 lifesize toys and action gures on display during the opening of the TOY FEZT 2.0 at SM City

Bacoor in Cavite City. Norman Cruz

Probe sought on WPS assistance

By Rio N. Araja

ZAMBALES Rep. Jay Khonghun is pushing for a congressional investigation into the alleged failure of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to provide adequate boats and other necessary support for fishermen in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Khonghun was reacting to numerous complaints from the fishing community about the disparity between the assistance provided by BFAR and the actual needs of the fishermen to sustain their livelihood.

“It is crucial that we address the inadequacies in the support provided to our fishermen. The fishermen in

IN BRIEF

Rep. Villar holds medical mission

LAS Piñas City Rep. Camille Villar has recently held a medical mission for 200 elderly citizens from Barangays Talons 1 to 5 as part of her continuing advocacy to sustain healthy living and improve the lives of vulnerable citizens.

“It is important that we make sure that our grandparents, and mothers and fathers stay healthy. Now that diseases caused by high heat index and other various diseases are widespread, senior citizens need regular check-ups to ensure that their bodies are strong and healthy,” she said. The beneficiaries had free check-ups and consultations, and they were given free maintenance medicines. Indigent children were treated to free fast-food spaghetti during the event. According to Villar, she has been helping indigent families, including those who belong to the vulnerable sector, improve their lives through medical and financial aid. Rio N. Araja

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has nominated career diplomat Raymond Balatbat as the new Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with concurrent jurisdiction over the Republic of Yemen. Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel said the President nominated Balatbat on June 3, and his papers were received by the Commission on Appointments (CA) on June 5.

“The new posting or place of assignment of an ambassador as well as the rank promotion of senior foreign service officers are both subject to CA confirmation,” Pimentel, CA assistant minority leader, said in a statement on Sunday. Balatbat is the current Philippine ambassador to Lebanon and one-time executive director of the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Office of Middle East and African Affairs.

He entered the foreign service in 1997 and previously held key roles in several Philippine diplomatic missions abroad.

Police colonel faces carnapping case

A POLICE lieutenant colonel is under investigation after his arrest over a complaint of carnapping.

Lt. Col. Gideon Ines Jr., 52, was arrested on June 5 in Baclaran, Parañaque, for allegedly selling a rented multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Also nabbed were his supposed accomplices, Michael Bautista, 42, and Lyn Tuazon, also 52 They were arrested by agents of the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) following a complaint filed by the female owner of the rented MPV. The owner sought police assistance after learning that her vehicle, which Bautista rented in Porac, Pampanga on June 2, was being sold for P350,000. She said the supposed buyer contacted her to verify if she was the registered owner of the vehicle. An entrapment operation was set up that led to the arrest of the three.

the WPS deserve the best resources to sustain their livelihoods and uphold our national interests in these contested waters,” he said.

The lawmaker cited the importance of scrutinizing and potentially realigning the BFAR budget as Congress prepares to deliberate on the 2025 National Expenditure Program.

BFAR earlier announced its allocation of P660 million for the purchase of 66 units of 62-footer fishing vessels to capacitate Filipino fisherfolk with bigger boats. At least 10 of these large fishing boats would be distributed to fishing cooperatives operating in the WPS.

Khonghun raised concerns over the effectiveness of BFAR’s current initiatives, stressing that the House of Representatives must ensure the allocated funds are being used efficiently to support the fishing community.

“Reevaluating and potentially reallocating BFAR’s budget will guarantee that every peso is directed towards genuinely improving the conditions for our fishermen,” he said. “This is about more than just boats; it’s about securing the future

of our fishing industry and reinforcing our sovereignty.”

Khonghun cited the importance of a thorough review of BFAR’s 2025 budget, suggesting possible internal issues within the agency.

“We need to examine BFAR’s budget closely to ensure it matches the fishermen’s needs. There seems to be an anomaly within BFAR as they appear to be misleading our fishermen,” according to the lawmaker.

“Congress has consistently provided funding to BFAR, and the President has repeatedly reminded them to address the real needs of our fishermen. It’s essential that BFAR genuinely engages with the fishing community to understand and meet their requirements,” Khonghun noted.

BOC agents seize over P13.5m worth of ‘ecstacy’

MEMBERS of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) stationed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City seized illegal drugs valued at P13.5 million on Friday.

The BOC, with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIAIADITG), intercepted a parcel containing the prohibited substance reportedly worth P13,546,100 at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC).

The parcel, which was declared as canned food and fruits, originated from Denmark. It was consigned to an individual in Taguig City whose name was not revealed.

Upon field testing by PDEA, 5,033 pieces of ecstasy tablets and 998 grams of ketamine were discovered inside the parcel.

Criminal charges will be filed against the claimant for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (Republic Act No. 9165) and Section 1401 (Unlawful Importation) of Republic Act No.

10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio emphasized they remain resolute in upholding the law and safeguarding the welfare of the Filipino people.”

Under the leadership of District Collector Yasmin Mapa, BOCNAIA reaffirmed its commitment in enhancing vigilance and dedication in securing the nation’s borders against the infiltration of illegal drugs. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Chiz seeks more visible OSG to avoid Charter pitfalls

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATE President Francis Escudero has called on the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) to take a more active role in shaping legislation, highlighting its responsibility to defend laws in the Supreme Court (SC).

Escudero issued the statement Friday when he delivered a keynote address for the 123rd founding anniversary of the OSG with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos in attendance at the Grand Ballroom of Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel in Pasay City.

The Senate President suggested that the OSG’s early involvement in the legislative process could help prevent constitutional challenges.

“This will avoid potential constitutional issues,” he said, commending Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra’s leadership and urging the office to innovate and adapt to new challenges.

Escudero proposed regular consultations with the OSG to provide legal insights on pending legislation. He said this approach would help craft laws that are robust and less likely to face legal obstacles.

The OSG should broaden its scope and help shape the nation’s future by going beyond its traditional role as the government’s chief legal defender, according to the Senate President.

In addition to its legislative advisory role, Escudero emphasized the importance of the OSG in handling foreign policy and international disputes. He advocated for the OSG to actively file cases that seek recognition of foreign judgments or arbitral rulings favorable to the Philippines. Escudero also recommended an expanded role for the OSG in resolving disputes between government agencies before they escalate to the courts.

He suggested that the OSG should handle settlements involving various agencies, including governmentowned and controlled corporations, to avoid the costly and time-consuming process of litigation.

Escudero also pledged his support for Guevarra in his goal of securing a dedicated building for the OSG, indicating a commitment to enhancing the office’s capabilities and resources.

PRELUDE TO PRAYER. Muslim children enjoy playing at the grounds of the Golden Mosque in Globo De Pro in Quiapo, Manila days before the Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacri ce on June 17, which is a regular holiday. Danny Pata

Teachers serving as poll workers to get extra

By

Vito Barcelo

cash

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) said it will increase the honoraria of teachers serving as electoral boards in the 2025 national and local elections.

Comelec chairperson George Garcia said he will incorporate this in the Comelec’s budget, considering the additional tasks they will be asking from teachers, who will serve during the election season next year.

“In our budget, the Comelec will fight for additional honoraria of teachers across the board. They don’t have a tax exemption already and there’s already additional work for them? There are also new machines, which we will instruct them on, and they have no raise for that day,” Garcia said.

The Comelec is planning to implement early voting hours for vulnerable voters in the midterm elections, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, and pregnant women. Those sectors can vote from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m.

Meanwhile, Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said that the poll body’s time and motions studies revealed a five to six-hour increase in the post-processing of ballots, which will add more hours to the work of the teachers as poll workers.

Laudiangco said that the raise is part of their already-advancing budget proposal to the Department of Budget Management (DBM) for 2025. In the last automated elections, there was a P9,000 honorarium for the members of the electoral board and P8,000 for the support staff. The Comelec is yet to finalize the fixed rate for the additional honoraria.

SC wraps up final leg of consultations on legal aid service

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court (SC) has held its fourth and final leg of regional consultation process on the Unified Legal Aid Service (ULAS) rules, one of the latest judicial reform projects under its Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 20222027 at the University of San Agustin in Iloilo City.

The SC said the ULAS regional consultations were a series of consultative discussions on the proposed rules, meant to govern the mandatory rendition of pro bono legal aid services by covered lawyers to qualified beneficiaries comprising of indigents; members of marginalized sectors with respect to their public interest cases; and non-governmental and non-profit organizations involved in cases beneficial to indigents and members of the marginalized sectors.

The consultation process commenced in Baguio City last April and was held subsequently in Cagayan de Oro City followed by Makati City.

In his speech, Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo stressed that the ULAS Rules aim to put in place a unified and streamlined framework for legal aid services.

He said the SC, through the creation of the ULAS Rules, hopes to give the indigent, underrepresented, and marginalized members of society full and effective access to justice.

“Prescinding from previous legal aid service rules, our proposed ULAS Rules seek to make mandatory legal aid service in the country pursuant to the duty of every lawyer to participate in the development of a legal system, improve the administration of justice, and strengthen the judicial and legal system,” the Chief Justice said.

IN BRIEF

AFP spots China war ships on Basilan Strait

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday, June 7, said that they have spotted the presence of Chinese warships cruising across the Basilan Strait,.

“The AFP, through the Naval Forces Western Mindanao monitored the presence of two PLA Navy vessels—a training ship with bow number 83 and an amphibious transport dock with bow number 999—passing through the Basilan Strait within the Zamboanga Peninsula,” the military said in a statement.

“In accordance with standard operating procedure, the AFP dispatched BRP Domingo Deluana (PG905) to shadow and monitor the passage of the two PLA Navy vessels,” the AFP added.

The vessel also issued standard radio challenges to the Chinese Navy vessels asking what their intentions were in the area.

According to the AFP, one of the vessels, Qi Jiquang (BN 83), responded that it was conducting normal navigation from its last port of call in Dili, TimorLeste en route to Dalian, China. Vince Lopez

Firm launches Bitcoin platform in Tacloban

TACLOBAN City—A financial technology company based here expands its operations with the launch of a Bitcoin cash wallet using “cutting edge technology.”

“At Paytaca, we are dedicated to providing user-friendly tools for seamless Bitcoin cash (BCH) transactions in realworld commerce,” said Paytaca Inc. chief executive officer Dr. Joemar Taganna. He introduced the Paytaca BCH wallet app in Ormoc City, Leyte, on Saturday, June 8, 2024.

Paytaca marketing chief Aaron Almadro also said they are set to launch their open-source BCH wallet app in Cebu City on July 7, 2024 at the Robinsons Galleria Cebu and other major cities across the Philippines before launching their BCH payment system abroad. In March 2024, officials from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Leyte, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Tacloban-Leyte Inc. congratulated Paytaca for the successful launch of its Marketplace and P2P Exchange online platforms. Ronald O. Reyes

HIV-AIDS cases rising in PH, DOH discloses

THE Philippines is facing a significant increase in HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) incidence and AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome)-related deaths, with current figures being four times higher than those recorded from 2012 to 2023, according to the Department of Health (DOH). Data from the HIV/AIDS and ART Registry of the Philippines (HARP) has prompted urgent action. In response, the DOH is rolling out comprehensive strategies including expanded HIV testing, improved facilities, and enhanced treatment protocols to address the problem. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Iloilo City mayor declares DPWH chief engineer ‘persona non grata’

Gov’t hospitals told to boost hemodialysis services

A QUEZON City lawmaker has urged government hospitals to boost their hemodialysis services to meet growing demand among Filipinos suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD).

In a statement, Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo also enjoined public hospitals to avail themselves of additional funding from the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) “so that they can expand their outpatient hemodialysis units.”

“We would urge all public hospitals to seek HFEP funding so that they can increase their hemodialysis stations and accommodate more CKD patients,” Rillo said.

“The HFEP has an allocation of P28.5 billion in the 2024 General Appropriations Law, and Congress is providing fresh funding for the program every

year,” he explained.

The HFEP bankrolls the construction, upgrading, or expansion of public healthcare facilities and the procurement of additional hospital or medical equipment, according to Rillo.

The country is observing National Kidney Month this June “to raise public awareness of the fatal consequences of renal diseases.”

CKD is among the leading causes of sickness and death in the Philippines.

Filipinos living with CKD have to undergo hemodialysis treatment up to three times a week, with each session lasting for four hours.

“Public hospitals must guarantee Filipinos living with CKD ready and uninterrupted access to hemodialysis treatment to assure them a superior quality of life,” Rillo said.

Ship runs aground after leaving Coron port; PCG rescues over 300 passengers

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has secured the safety of at least 324 passengers of a roll on-roll off vessel that ran aground on Saturday near the Coron port in Palawan. PCG high speed response boats raced to the scene after receiving distress call from the MV St. Francis Xavier which encountered engine trouble shortly after setting off for Puerto Princesa City last Saturday afternoon. The vessel reportedly has difficulty during its undocking maneuver, lost power and stalled approximately one nautical mile from the port of Coron. The crew dropped anchor to prevent the ship from drifting into open seas.

While engineers worked on restoring power, the vessel’s stern ran aground in a shallow water near the pier due to low tide. By 10 p.m., power was restored, but the ship remained immobilized as the stern was still grounded.

Personnel from the Marine Environmental Protection Unit and Coast Guard Station (CGS) Northeastern Palawan boarded the vessel, to assess the mechanical problem. They found no signs of leakage or oil spills around the vessel. Divers have begun an underwater hull assessment. The MV St. Francis Xavier planned to return to the port of Coron for a thorough assessment before continuing its voyage. Meanwhile, CGS Northeastern Palawan assisted in the disembarkation of the passengers.

Last month, through Rillo’s efforts, the East Avenue Medical Center in Quezon City and Passion Healthcare Philippines Inc. agreed to work together to provide sustained hemodialysis treatment to disadvantaged CKD patients, the statement read.

Rillo also previously launched free hemodialysis treatment in Barangay U.P. Campus, Quezon City, through a licensed facility.

Hemodialysis procedure remains the No. 1 treatment package being claimed by Filipinos and their healthcare providers.

In 2023 alone, a total of 3,627,350 hemodialysis procedure claims were filed with the state-run Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), which spent an aggregate of P17.4 billion to pay the claims.

By Caloy Lozada

CITING alleged inefficiency and disrespect, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas has declared the head of the local Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) district engineering office a ‘persona non grata’ or unacceptable person in the city.

Treñas said a copy of the resolution would be sent to DPWH Western Visayas director Sanny Oropel and to the office of DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, explaining the nature of the controversy.

“I will be declaring the District Engineer of the City District Office of the Department of Public Works in Iloilo City persona non grata… We cannot work with people who do not respect the highest elected official of the city government,” Treñas said.

The mayor also charged that multiple projects in the city, which he described as “white elephants,” as the main reason behind his displeasure with the district engineer’s performance.

Treñas was referring to infrastructure projects that have been completed, but remained unused and non-functional for several years.

He asserted that the unused projects “wasted significant resources and have caused frustration among the city’s residents.”

Treñas said while he has the highest respect for Bonoan, Oropel and other DPWH personnel, he could not stand the district engineer assigned to Iloilo City.

“This DE of yours has gone beyond normal norms in civilized society. If he cannot even show respect for me as the highest elected official in the city, then he has no place here in the city,” Treñas noted in a statement posted recently on his official Facebook page.

Earlier, Treñas ordered the DPWHIloilo City District Engineering Office to vacate its premises located in Fort San Pedro Drive which is owned by the city government.

PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD TO THE RESCUE. High speed response boats of the Philippine Coast Guard rescue more than 320 passengers of the roll on-roll off ship MV St. Francis Xavier that ran aground near Coron Port in Palawan.

POLICE-PRIVATE SECTOR INTERACTION. Newly installed Valenzuela City police chief Col. Nixon Cayaban (2nd from left) poses for posterity with Jhoechem Environment Corp. president Jose Mari Bengotchea (left) during the police official’s visit to the plant. Andrew Rabulan

BIRTHDAY BASH AT CHILD HAUS. Virginia Rodriguez, president of the charitable organization Act Agri-Kaagapay sa Kaunlaran, celebrates her birthday at the Center for Health Improvement and Life Development (CHILD) Haus in Manila to share the joyous occasion with the facility’s indigent young patients afflicted with cancer. Also present during the event are Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo and prominent hairdresser, businessman and philanthropist Ricky Reyes. Norman Cruz

OPINION

The big winners

percent.

WHAT a silly mistake.

A friend called me and noted I must have written Sadat after Anwar to refer to the Malaysian PM in last Thursday’s article titled “Is ASEAN listening?”

I couldn’t get myself to thinking I made such an error, but, later, when I checked my files, indeed, I wrote Sadat (the late Egyptian president) after Anwar instead of Ibrahim. Later, a reader pointed out the mistake in the comments section.

My bad. Sometimes we write in haste, and forget to edit or clean our copy before sending. Sorry about that. ***

My attention was called to a rather obscure agency created by RA 9996 in 2010 -- the Mindanao Development Authority, because of a controversy arising from the replacement of its chairperson who carries Cabinet rank, Maria Belen Acosta by Leo Tereso Magno, a friend from Erap days.

Acosta filed a petition in court questioning her sudden replacement by Magno, as the law provides the chairperson “shall serve a term of six years from the date of his/her appointment unless removed for cause” (Sec.7 of RA 9996).

The Executive Secretary informed Acosta her “term of office was terminated for cause due to the loss of trust and confidence in you on the part of the appointing power.”

I do not know Madam Acosta at all, but this writer thinks there is merit in her questioning her abrupt replacement, because the specific provision of the law creating MINDA negates mere presidential prerogative as appointing power.

Not that I want to rain on Leo’s parade, so to speak. He used to be Phividec CEO appointed by President Noynoy Aquino, but was later replaced by President Duterte although Le, as friends call him, is personally known to FPRRD, coming as he does from a family with long-developed roots in Davao City.

Yet Phividec, unlike MINDA, is a GOCC with no legally-protected provision for term of office.

Removal for cause requires the appointing power gives the appointee reason for his/her termination, and that involves a legal process, not mere exercise of prerogative. ***

I had started to write a long article on rice, proposing a long-term view of the problem, which is both economic and political, which I wanted to serialize in this space, when all of a sudden, the NEDA, where the President is the chairperson, announced through Director-General Arsenio Balisacan, the reduction of tariffs on rice and other items from 35 to 15

The move is quite understandable as the rice price conundrum has been haunting the administration for months on end, being the main cause of headline inflation that has persisted for three quarters, without clear sight of an end.

It also follows first quarter surveys indicating a huge drop in the President’s approval rating, and the main cause is the spiraling of the price of rice, among other food items.

But what I cannot understand is why a temporary slash in tariffs by more than 50 percent, as earlier floated by DOF

Secretary Ralph Recto as a possibility, had suddenly become “until 2028,” or till the end of the president’s term of office.

It implies government has given up on the “aspiration” to achieve self-sufficiency in the staple, as repeated by his agriculture and irrigation agency officials over and over again.

This is on top of another “aspiration” which is really an “impossible dream” -20 peso per kilo rice.

The sudden NEDA decision that caught farmers like a bolt of lightning from the heavens has been immediately criticized by presidential sister, Senadora Imee Marcos...

The sudden NEDA decision that caught farmers like a bolt of lightning from the heavens has been immediately criticized by presidential sister, Senadora Imee Marcos, who asked if the government wants to “kill” palay farmers, in favor of traders and importers. Who are the big winners? The traders who also import, obviously. And the losers? Why the palay farmers, obviously.

Just before Congress recessed, the House railroad express passed a bill amending the Rice Tariffication Act, with intent to restore NFA’s powers to import and regulate the rice industry.

That bill now awaits Senate action, and while Congress is on recess, Malacanang drops the guillotine blade on tariffs. What gives? What is the real plan on rice, if any?

This is a good prologue to a series on rice that I intend to write in the coming days.

The bane of illegal signal boosters

ILLEGAL signal boosters, also known as repeaters, have become a pervasive issue in the Philippines, causing significant disruptions to cellular services nationwide.

These devices, designed to amplify and rebroadcast cell tower signals, are intended to improve signal strength in areas with poor reception.

However, the rampant unauthorized use has led to widespread network interference, affecting millions of users.

According to the National Telecommunications Commission Memorandum Order 01-02-2013, the sale, purchase, importation, possession, or use of cellular mobile repeaters and portable cell sites without proper authorization is illegal.

Only licensed CMTS (Cellular Mobile Telephone Service) operators, the three telcos, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and other government agencies involved in national security or safety are permitted to use such devices.

This regulation aims to prevent the detrimental effects of unauthorized repeaters on cellular networks.

A quick internet search will show sellers posting a range of mobile signal boosters/repeaters for LTE, 3G, 4G and even 5G.

I checked out one posted by a local seller in a popular online shopping platform which has photos of the set of equipment

and included accessories, technical specifications, and fairly detailed installation instructions.

Several pages of very positive reviews from users with photos would inspire confidence to purchase.

Typically, they consist of three main components: an outdoor antenna, a signal amplifier, and an indoor antenna.

The rampant unauthorized use of illegal signal boosters has led to widespread network interference, affecting millions of users

The motivation to invest in these devices is to improve poor signal strength but they become problematic when used without proper authorization and calibration.

While everyone hates a weak mobile phone signal, resorting to illegal signal boosters interfere with the regular operation of cellular networks, leading to a host of problems. Users in the area where these signal

POGOs under siege

SHOULD Philippine Offshore

Gaming Operators or POGOs be banned from operating in the country?

That possibility looms large close on the heels of two more high-profile raids by law enforcers on POGOs in two Central Luzon provinces.

In the latest raid on June 6, at least 186 foreign and Filipino workers were rescued from another sprawling POGO complex in Porac municipality in Pampanga.

The complex was reportedly being used for human trafficking, with some of the foreign employees allegedly tortured or sold for sex.

Of the 157 foreign nationals accounted for in the raid, 126 were Chinese, 23 were Vietnamese, four were Malaysians, four were Burmese, and one was Korean. There were also 29 Filipino workers.

The operation mounted by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) was the second high-profile POGO raid in Central Luzon this year.

A crackdown in March on another major gaming hub in Bamban town in neighboring Tarlac province led to

its mayor, Alice Guo, being grilled in the Senate about her background and links to the POGO, business, and even aroused suspicion she could be a Chinese spy. This was the second time the Bamban POGO had been raided, the first was in September 2022.

The raids came amid growing calls especially from some lawmakers to kick out POGOs from the country after several were repeatedly linked to crime syndicates engaged in human trafficking, kidnapping, robbery-extortion, money laundering, online scams, and, lately, even espionage.

—“—

Will the Marcos Jr. administration respond to increasingly strident calls to ban POGOs once and for all?

The Duterte administration encouraged the entry of POGOs because of their perceived economic impact.

Department of Finance data show that combined taxes collected from

IN THE shadowy corridors of power, a revelation of seismic proportions has emerged, casting a pall over the legacy of a former leader.

Former Health Secretary Francisco Duque III stands on the precipice of a decision that could alter the course of history—a potential state witness against none other than former President Rodrigo Duterte himself.

The gravity of this moment cannot be overstated.

As former Senator Richard Gordon astutely observes, Duque’s testimony could hold the key to unraveling a tangled web of corruption, implicating the highest echelons of authority in the misuse of billions of pesos intended for pandemic relief.

With the revelation that P47.6 billion of the Department of Health’s funds were redirected on Duterte’s orders, the nation reels from the realization that even in times of crisis, greed and malfeasance know no bounds.

Gordon’s suggestion that Duque could serve as a “major state witness” against Duterte underscores the gravity of the situation.

Duque’s proximity to the epicenter of power renders his testimony not only damning but potentially instrumental in holding accountable those responsible for the misappropriation of public funds.

His admission, made under oath before a House committee, is a stark reminder of the weight of truth in the face of entrenched corruption.

boosters are installed experience slow or failed connections, dropped calls, and poor voice quality, even when their signal bars indicate good reception.

This interference can be particularly dangerous during emergencies, hampering critical communication and potentially putting lives at risk.

Telecom providers report routine scans have identified numerous unauthorized devices, prompting collaboration with the NTC to address the issue.

One of the main issues with illegal repeaters is their poor installation and the substandard components that generate spurious radio signals, which interfere with the cellular network.

These devices are not properly calibrated or tuned to the correct frequencies and configuration, causing further interference with legitimate signals, compounding the problem.

All our mobile phones rely on radio frequency communication to send and receive signals through the air.

However, radio signals are affective by various natural and man-made obstacles that can disrupt, block, or degrade signal transmission and quality.

POGOs from 2017 to October 2022 reached P53.8 billion: P30 billion by PAGCOR, while P23.8 billion by the Bureau of Internal Revenue. In 2019, total collected taxes reached ₱14.44 billion. POGO generated ₱7 billion in license fees, according to PAGCOR.

NEDA also reported that, at the same year, POGOs contributed ₱104.5 billion or 0.67 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.

However, these declined thereafter, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last year, despite the decrease in the number of operators, POGO still generated ₱5.2 billion in license fees.

Meanwhile, the BIR reported in October 2022 there were 16,736 Filipino workers employed by licensed POGOs, accounting for 48.87 percent of the total employment in the industry. But critics have long argued the economic benefits of POGOs in terms of job creation, property sector earnings and revenues for the government are far outweighed by their social cost and involvement in outright criminal activities.

Will the Marcos Jr. administration respond to increasingly strident calls to ban POGOs once and for all?

Pandemic profiteering: The Pharmally scandal and Duque’s dilemma

From a legal standpoint, Gordon elucidates the principle of “qualified political agency,” emphasizing that Cabinet members, including Duque, are deemed to act on behalf of the President. However, this does not absolve them of accountability; rather, it underscores the complicity of those who acquiesce to illegal orders, thereby perpetuating a culture of corruption.

Yet, amidst the clamor for justice, there exist shades of complexity that demand careful consideration.

—“—

Gordon’s acknowledgment of Duque’s predicament as a ‘prisoner of the President’ highlights the ethical conundrum faced by those ensnared in the web of political patronage

Gordon’s acknowledgment of Duque’s predicament as a “prisoner of the President” highlights the ethical conundrum faced by those ensnared in the web of political patronage. While Duque’s actions may have been influenced by his allegiance to

Illegal repeaters add to these challenges by introducing unregulated and often overpowering signals into the network, which can wreak havoc on signal quality and reliability for all users in the affected area.

Authorized repeaters installed by telecom companies are properly designed for in-building coverage, like very low power distributed antenna systems. These systems are meticulously engineered to improve signal strength without causing interference. However, implementing these solutions is not straightforward.

Telecom companies need permission from building owners and tenants to install these systems. Efforts to combat illegal repeaters include partnerships between telecom companies and government bodies.

For instance, Globe has teamed up with the Bangsamoro Telecommunications Commission to crack down on illegal devices in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

These initiatives have led to the confiscation of numerous illegal repeaters, significantly improving network perform-

Duterte, the question of personal responsibility looms large.

Senator Risa Hontiveros adds another layer to the narrative, urging scrutiny of Duterte’s role in the scandal. Her call for accountability extends beyond Duque to the highest office in the land, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability at all levels of government.

The revelation that Duterte himself ordered the transfer of funds raises troubling questions about his complicity in the misuse of public resources.

As the Ombudsman continues its probe into the Pharmally scandal, the wheels of justice grind inexorably forward.

The specter of corruption looms large, casting a shadow over the nation’s efforts to combat the pandemic. However, in the pursuit of truth and accountability, there lies the promise of redemption.

With each revelation, the bonds of impunity weaken, paving the way for a future where integrity triumphs over deceit.

In the face of adversity, there exists an opportunity for renewal.

The path ahead may be fraught with challenges, but it is through the crucible of adversity that the character of a nation is forged.

As we confront the sins of the past, let us not lose sight of the promise of a brighter future – a future where justice prevails, and the voices of the marginalized are heard.

ance in affected areas.

Despite these efforts, the ease of purchasing these devices poses a continuous challenge.

Though the NTC has ordered e-commerce platforms to stop the sale of illegal signal boosters, the cooperation of all of us mobile phone users is needed.

So, if you are experiencing signal problems mentioned above, and suspect an illegal repeater is in your vicinity, immediately report the issue to your telco provider to facilitate timely intervention. The use of illegal signal boosters is a bad quick-fix attempt to solve a complex problem.

It underscores the importance of adhering to regulated solutions and working collaboratively with telecom providers to ensure a stable and reliable mobile network for everyone.

The long-term solution I have featured many times in this column is for government to aggressively invest in upgrading and expanding the nation’s digital infrastructure in synergy with telcos to meet the surging demand for faster and reliable connectivity that the economy needs to sustainably move forward.

IN BRIEF

Projectiles strike ships off Yemen

LONDON – Projectiles struck two cargo ships off the coast of Yemen last weeked without causing any casualties, maritime security agencies said.

An Antigua and Barbuda-flagged cargo ship caught fire after being hit by a missile off Yemen on Saturday night, maritime security firm Ambrey said.

“The ship was heading southwest along the Gulf of Aden at a speed of 8.2kts when the forward station was struck by a missile. A fire started but was neutralized,” Ambrey said in a statement. A second missile was sighted but missed and “small boats in the vicinity opened fire on the ship” causing it to change direction to port.

“No injuries were reported,” the security firm added. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), run by Britain’s Royal Navy, said an “unknown projectile” hit a vessel off Yemen around 2000 GMT on Saturday, setting a small fire in the mooring station that was extinguished.

“All crew are reported safe and the vessel is now proceeding to its next port of call,” it said. AFP

Saudi clears Mecca of unregistered pilgrims

RIYADH – Saudi Arabia has said security forces had cleared hundreds of thousands of unregistered pilgrims from Mecca ahead of the hajj which begins next week.

Crowd management is a major concern during the annual pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam which drew more than 1.8 million Muslims last year, according to official figures.

Those turned away in recent days from the holy city, home to the Grand Mosque, include 153,998 foreigners who travelled from abroad on tourist visas rather than the required hajj visas, the official Saudi Press Agency said.

In addition Saudi authorities have arrested 171,587 others who are based in Saudi Arabia but are not residents of Mecca and did not have hajj permits, SPA said. The hajj, which begins on June 14, must be undertaken at least once by all Muslims with the means.

It involves a series of rituals completed over at least four days in Mecca and its surroundings in the west of Saudi Arabia. AFP

Hamas says more than 200 killed as Israel rescues 4 Gaza hostages

India’s Modi to take oath alongside coalition allies

NEW DELHI – India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi was set to be sworn in Sunday for a third term after worse than expected election results left him reliant on coalition partners to govern.

With Modi yet to announce the makeup of this Cabinet, the ceremony at the presidential palace on Sunday evening will be keenly watched when some 30 ministers-to-be also take the oath on the Constitution.

Modi’s Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party ruled outright for the past decade but failed to repeat its previous two landslide wins this time around, defying analysts’ expectations and exit polls.

He was instead forced into quick-fire talks with the 15-member coalition, the National Democratic Alliance, which guaranteed him the parliamentary numbers to govern.

Larger coalition parties have demanded hefty concessions in exchange for their support.

The Hindustan Times described days of “hectic talks”, while the Times of India said the BJP had sought to “pare down” their partners’ demands.

It is widely reported that the Telgu Desam Party, the largest BJP ally with 16 seats, has extracted four cabinet positions.

The next biggest party, the Janata

Dal (United) with 12 seats, has negotiated two.

Modi’s previous cabinet had 81 ministers.

But Indian media reported widely the top jobs including the four most powerful posts of the interior, foreign, finance and defence would remain in the BJP’s grip.

“Key ministries like home, defence, finance, and external affairs are offlimits,” the Times of India reported.

It suggests that top Modi aides Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari -- interior, defence minister and transport ministers respectively -- will be in the new team. AFP

PALESTINIAN

Territories – Israel announced its forces rescued four hostages during the weekend from a Gaza refugee camp in an operation which the Hamas-run government media office said left 210 Palestinians dead and hundreds wounded.

The Israeli military said the four, “good medical condition,” had been kidnapped from the Nova music festival during Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack that sparked war, now in its ninth month.

The same day, aid began trickling back into the devastated Gaza Strip via a rebuilt, temporary pier, according to the US Central Command.

The pier, built by the US military to boost the delivery of direly needed relief supplies, was only briefly operational before it suffered storm damage at the end of May. After repairs, it was re-established on Friday.

CENTCOM said crews delivered about 492 tonnes (1.1 million pounds) of “much needed humanitarian assistance” via the pier on Saturday morning, and stressed that the facility was in no way connected to Israel’s hostage rescue operation.

The Israeli military said Noa Argamani, 26, Almog Meir Jan, 22, Andrey Kozlov, 27, and Shlomi Ziv, 41, were pulled out in a “complex” mission.

It released footage and images of them being extracted by helicopter and then reuniting with loved ones in emotional scenes at a Tel Aviv hospital. In Nuseirat, where the hostages were being held, Palestinians described coming under intense bombardment and heavy gunfire.

The hostages are among seven that Israeli forces have freed alive since Palestinian militants seized 251 people in their October attack on southern Israel. There are now 116 hostages remaining in Gaza, including 41 the army says are dead. AFP

Seoul says it will resume loudspeaker propaganda after North sends balloons

SEOUL – South Korea announced Sunday it would resume loudspeaker propaganda campaigns against the North after Pyongyang sent a fresh barrage of trashfilled balloons across the border.

Relations between the two Koreas are at one of their lowest points in years and in recent weeks the two have engaged in a tit-for-tat campaign of balloon launches, with analysts warning the escalatory cycle could end in actual military skirmishes.

North Korea has sent hundreds more trash-filled balloons across the border in a fresh blitz, Seoul’s military said Sunday, as the tit-for-tat balloon barrages between the two neighbors accelerates.

Since the latest blitz began late Saturday, Pyongyang has sent an estimated 330 balloons carrying bags of trash into the South, Seoul’s military said.

“So far, about 80 have fallen in our area and nothing is currently being identified in the air,” the Joint Chiefs of Staff said Sunday in a statement.

“Our analysis shows there were no substances that were harmful to safety,” it said,

adding that the latest batch of balloons contained waste paper and plastic.

The Seoul city government, as well as officials in surrounding Gyeonggi province, sent out a text alert to residents on Saturday, warning about the balloons.

“North Korea is making another low-class provocation with trash balloons against our civilian areas,” wrote Seoul mayor Oh Sehoon in a Facebook post.

In recent weeks, activists in the South have floated dozens of balloons bearing Kpop, dollar bills and anti-Kim Jong Un propaganda northwards, infuriating Pyongyang which has retaliated in kind.

Pyongyang sent nearly a thousand balloons carrying cigarette butts and toilet paper across the border early June, before calling off its campaign, but it restarted Saturday in response to new launches last week by the activists, which Seoul’s government is legally powerless to prevent.

A South Korean group called “Fighters for Free North Korea” said it had sent 10 balloons with thumb drives containing Kpop music and 200,000 leaflets condemning Kim’s rule this week. AFP

OCEAN SUMMIT. A man waits in line in front of a tortule image on the ocean during the two-day weekend opening of the Immersed Change Ocean Protection Summit in San Jose. Authorities, scientists, and international experts agreed on the need to act without delay to protect the oceans during a forum in Costa Rica in preparation for the crucial UN meeting in 2025 in France. AFP

STATE DINNER. (from left) US first lady Jill Biden, US President Joe Biden, France’s President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron arrive to attend an official state dinner as part of US President’s state visit to France, at the Presidential Elysee Palace in Paris during the weekend. President Biden said France is America’s ‘first friend’ at its founding and is one of its closest allies more than two centuries later as he was honored with a state visit by Macron aimed at showing off their partnership on global security issues and easing past trade tensions. AFP

Focus on short game as JPGT tourney begins

BAGUIO—With the Pinewoods course presenting new challenges, three contenders in their respective age group categories are emphasizing their short game as the Junior Philippine Golf Tour kicks off its Luzon Series 3 here today (Monday, June 10).

Charles Serdenia, who came back from a three-stroke deficit in the final nine holes to clinch the Series I crown at Splendido Taal last month, is back in pursuit of a second straight trophy in the centerpiece 15-18 division.

“I practiced every day to prepare for this tournament,” said Serdenia, who missed the Series 2 leg at Pradera Verde due to graduation.

As he prepared for this week’s tournament, the Junior World-bound Serdenia has placed a premium on his short game, which he believes will be crucial for another leg win. The series, sponsored by ICTSI, aims to discover and develop talents while promoting camaraderie among participants.

The circuit operates independently from other junior golf organizations. The organizing Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. ensures that there are no scheduling conflicts and fosters a cooperative atmosphere to benefit the young players’ mutual advantage.

Despite the absence of Pradera leg winner Shinichi Suzuki, Serdenia expects stiff competition from top contenders Tristan Padilla, Mark Kobayashi, Alonso Espartero, Von Tablac, Francis Slavin, and Harry Sales in the 72-hole tournament.

Celtics’ Tatum, Brown united as Kidd comment stirs debate

NEW YORK—The Boston Celtics, coming off an authoritative game one victory over Dallas in the NBA Finals, aren’t about to let Mavericks coach Jason Kidd get in their heads going into game two.

In comments widely interpreted as a bid to sow discord in the Celtics ranks, Kidd twice told reporters on Saturday that Jaylen Brown is Boston’s “best” player -- but Brown and star teammate Jayson Tatum didn’t bite.

“No reaction,” Tatum said as the teams spoke to reporters ahead of Sunday’s game two in Boston.

“This is a team sport, right. We understand that.

“We wouldn’t be here if we didn’t have JB on our team and we can say that for a lot of guys.

“We have all played a part in getting to where we’re at, and we understand that people try to drive a wedge between us. I guess it’s a smart thing to do or try to do.

“We’ve been in this position for many of years of guys trying to divide us and say that one of us should be traded or one is better than the other.

So it’s not our first time at the rodeo.”

Brown led Boston’s scoring with 22 points and was dominant on the defensive end in Thursday’s 107-89 victory.

“Jaylen is their best player,” Kidd

said when asked about the difficulty of containing him. “Just looking at what he does defensively, he picked up Luka (Doncic) full court. He got to the free throw line. He did everything, and that’s what your best player does. Just understanding he plays both sides, defense and offense, at a high rate. And he’s been doing that the whole playoffs.”

Brown and Tatum are familiar with the question of which is the team’s top star—long a favorite topic of media debate.

As always, Brown said, the Celtics are tuning it out, even though this time it comes from a coach whose three trips to the NBA Finals as a player included a championship run with Dallas in 2011.

“We’ve been just extremely focused on what our roles and our jobs are,” Brown said. AFP

Mavericks expect Irving to bounce back

NEW YORK—Dallas star Kyrie Irving

delivered another dud in Boston, but said his hostile reception from Celtics fans isn’t the major problem facing the Mavericks as they try to bounce back from an NBA Finals game one defeat.

“I thought it was going to be a little louder in here,” said Irving, who was roundly booed every time he touched the ball during the Celtics’ dominant 107-89 triumph on Thursday.

Irving played two seasons in Boston, arriving in a trade from Cleveland in 2017 after claiming the title alongside Cavaliers teammate LeBron James in 2016.

His departure after the 2018-19 season—after a preseason pledge to stay—rankled fans who have let him hear it ever since.

“I’m expecting the same things going into game two —crowd trying to get me out of my element, my teammates out of my element,” Irving said.

“But, again, the energy has to be focused toward the game. I felt like I had a lot of great looks. They hit back rim or were just a little left or right. Just got to stay confident and stay poised throughout this,”

Boston Celtics’ head coach Joe Mazzulla gives instructions to Jayson Tatum, and Jaylen Brown during Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. AFP

he said.

“This is the best time of the year to be playing. There’s only two teams left. Let’s put it in perspective.”

Amid the boos and the bad bounces, Irving finished with just 12 points on lackluster 6-of-19 shooting in 37 minutes in game one.

He missed all five of his threepoint attempts, didn’t attempt a free throw and his three turnovers out-paced his two assists.

In fact, the Mavericks had just nine assists total in an anemic offensive display and on the defensive end couldn’t find a way to slow down a Celtics team that won a league-leading 64 regularseason games. AFP

VNL Men’s Pools Week 3 highlights busy volley sked

VOLLEYBALL Nations League (VNL) Men’s Pools Week 3 action erupts starting June 18 at the Mall of Asia Arena in another unprecedented busy month for Philippine volleyball.

“The Alas Pilipinas Women provided the highlight late last month but the momentum for Philippine volleyball continues overseas and at home with the VNL just around the corner,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF).

The Rizal Memorial Coliseum took a golden bronze hue with Alas Pilipinas’s third place finish in the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Challenge Cup for Women— the country’s best-ever finish, and the first medal, in an Asian level volleyball competition.

“The Alas women’s achievement was a highlight reel yet the PNVF’s focus is multi-pronged,” said Suzara, referring to the various Alas Pilipinas squads campaigning overseas simultaneously.

The men’s national team are

in Bahrain for the AVC Challenge Cup for Men, the Under-18 squad is in Thailand for the 22nd Princess Cup SEA U18 Women’s Volleyball Championship and 5th Asian Women’s U18 Volleyball Championship and the Alas women are in Daegu City, South Korea, for a Friendship Tour in connection with the Philippine Independence Day Celebration. The beach volleyball teams are in Switzerland for the beach pro tour following two weeks of AVC and FIVBA pro tour tournaments at the Nuvali Sand Courts by AyalaLand. Come July, the Alas Pilipinas women will be back in action this time in the FIVB Volleyball Women’s Challenger Cup which the PNVF is hosting from July 4 to 7 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

But world-class play will run for six days at the SM Mall of Asia Arena where Paris Olympics-bound France, USA, Germany, Canada, The Netherlands and Japan, plus Brazil and Iran take the floor for the VNL Men’s Pools Week 3 Action.

Cabuyao, Prov. of Laguna. Bounded on the SW., along line 1-2 by Lot 6; on the NW., along line 2-3 by Lot 3, both of Blk 3; on the NE., along lines 3-4-5 by Road Lot 2; and on the SE., along line 5-1 by Lot 7, Blk. 3, all of the subd. plan. Beginning at a point marked “1” on plan, being S. 10 deg. 45’E, 4147.16m. from BLLM. No. 1, Mun. of Cabuyao, Laguna. Thence-N.18 deg. 43’W., 12.00m. to point 2; N. 71 deg. 08’E., 19.68m. to point 3; S. 18 deg. 01’E., 12.00m. to point 4; S. 71 deg. 08’W., 19.53m. to point of beginning, containing an area of TWO HUNDRED THIRTY FIVE (235) SQUARE METERS xxx” WHEREAS the above-described property was sold to a third party, particularly JRL Endaya, Inc., after the Notice of Levy of Attachment was inscribed on Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-712942, and that such inscription was carried over to the new title issued in favor of JRL Endaya, Inc., Transfer Certificate of Title No. 060-2015001722, particularly described as follows: TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. 060-2015001722

“A PARCEL OF LAND (LOT 5, BLK. 3 OF THE SUBD. PLAN,

PSD-043404-076473, BEING A PORTION OF LOT 11-C (LRC) PSD-36, LRC REC. NO.), SITUATED IN THE BRGY. OF PULO, MUN. OF CABUYAO, PROV. OF LAGUNA. BOUNDED ON THE SW., ALONG LINE 1-2 BY LOT 6; ON THE NW., ALONG LINE 2-3 BY LOT 3, BOTH OF BLK 3; ON THE NE., ALONG LINES 3-4-5 BY ROAD LOT 2; AND ON THE SE., ALONG LINE 5-1 BY LOT 7, BLK. 3, ALL OF THE SUBD. PLAN. BEGINNING AT A POINT MARKED “1” ON PLAN, BEING S. 10 DEG. 45’E., 4147.16 M. FROM BLLM. NO. 1, MUN. OF CABUYAO, LAGUNA. THENCE N.18 DEG. 43’W., 12.00M. TO POINT 2; N. 71 DEG. 08’E., 19.68 M. TO POINT 3; S. 18 DEG. 01’E., 12.00 M. TO POINT 4; S. 71 DEG. 08’W., 19.53 M. TO POINT OF BEGINNING, CONTAINING AN AREA OF TWO HUNDRED THIRTY FIVE (235) SQUARE METERS xxx” WHEREAS, in the Order dated February 9, 2023, and upon motion of the plaintiff, the Honorable Court directed the implementation of the Writ of Execution dated October 22, 2018 over TCT No. 060-2015001722;

Charles Serdenia

Kyrie Irving

MONDAY, JUNE 10, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

JRU tracksters score 3-peat; Junior Altas win 2nd straight title

By Dennis Abrina

THE National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) track and field event returned Saturday in Season 99, with host Jose Rizal University and Perpetual Help emerging champions at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

The Heavy Bombers were crowned grand slam champions in the Senior’s Division by recording 826.5 points, while Mapua Tech came in second with 584 points and Arellano University was 2nd runner up with 540 points. Southeast Asian Games relay gold winner Frederick Ramirez delivered a pair of record-breaking feats to power Jose Rizal University to the three-peat and 10th title oveall.

Ramirez broke the 400m and 200m records in two of the three gold medals he snared in the three-day meet organized by a committee chaired by Herc Callanta of Lyceum of the Philippines.

Ramirez clocked 46.95 seconds in the 400m to erase the 48.03 mark he set last year and then timed in 21.43 in the 200m to eclipse the 21.93 standard Russel Galleon of JRU registered six years ago.

Interestingly, the record-breakers by Ramirez, who also had a 4x400m relay gold and an 800m bronze, were just among the six marks the fell this season with the other four being Arellano U’s Eugene Bongalos in pole vault, and Mapua’s Leonard Grospe in high jump in seniors and JRU’s Randy Degolacion in 800m and Perpetual Help’s John Kervy Dianito in javelin in the juniors’ side. Meanwhile, the Junior Altas collected a total of 804.5 points in 18 events to claim their second title with a 153-point margin over 1st runner-up Jose Rizal University with 657.25 points. Second runner-up was Arellano University 503 points in the junior division.

The Dr./BGen Antonio Tamayoowned educational institution reigned supreme as it collected 13 golds, 3 silvers and 2 bronze medals plus personal bests and record-breaking performances in the return of track and field events in the oldest league in the country following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This is what we call true developmental program ng mga bata from elementary, starting in the intramural-cluster meets going to the division meet, then regional and Palarong Pambansa. After that, Grade 7 and 8 Batang Pinoy,” coach Trece Academia said.

Obiena’s new poles arrive, get baptism of fire in Poland meet

By Peter Atencio

ERNEST John “EJ” Obiena will be wielding new and better sticks when he trains for and competes in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

New sets of poles which have been ordered for him by the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association and its president Terry Capistrano have arrived Saturday night in Italy.

They are now in Obiena’s hands at the Formia, Italy training center, where the world no. 2 pole vaulter is currently based.

The new sticks will have their baptism of fire when Obiena competes next at a meet in Bydgoszcz, Poland on June 20.

After making the trip by plane from the United States to Europe, the poles were personally transported by car, closely watched by volunteers who are also pole vaulters themselves

“He is checking them (poles) now. Always a risk they can be mishandled in the cargo area,”

ena’s top supporter, James Lafferty. As of now, Obiena, who has held the world no. 2 spot over the last eight months, has seen his world ranking points move closer to those held by world no. 1 Armand Duplantis.

Capistrano decided to acquire new pole equipment for him when he began breaking the poles he owned during competition and in practice. Obiena first broke his pole during competition in the 2024 Ostrava Golden Spike - World Athletics Continental Tour Gold in Ostrava, Czech Republic, where he placed seventh. The 27-year-old top Asian pole vaulter broke his second pole during practice, forcing him to borrow two poles as he settled for a bronze medal at the Diamond League - Oslo Bislett Games in Norway. Obiena again used borrowed sticks to land seventh place last week at the Diamond League’s Bauhaus-Galan leg in Stockholm, where he cleared 5.70 meters.

URCC’s fight series

ANTIPOLO CITY—Top seed Rabie Jayson Oba-ob advanced to the semifinals of the 2024 Philippine Badminton Open men’s singles event with a comefrom-behind 19-21, 21-14, 21-5 victory over Kervin Llanes of the University of the Philippines on Sunday at the First Pacific Leadership Academy here.

The 31-year-old former national team standout used a late first-game run to fuel his comeback victory against the determined 19-year-old University of the Philippines upstart, securing the win in 31 minutes in the last-eight battle of this Philippine Super 500 tournament sponsored by Smart, Mizuno, the Philippine Sports Commission, and the MVP Sports Foundation.

“’Yung gameplan ko kasi ngayon is tagalan ko ‘yung laro kasi alam kong mas matibay ‘yung endurance ko,” said Obaob, a Zamboagueño.

“Bihira rin sa bansa natin ‘yung mga badminton courts na matataas yung ceiling tulad dito kaya tinry kong taasan ‘yung bola para masira ‘yung timing niya lalo na karamihan sa mga players ngayon gumagamit ng power.” Next up for Oba-ob is Llanes’ fellow Isko and Smash Pilipinas

SUBIC—Chinese Peng Cheng Li and local standout Leyann Ramo delivered outstanding performances at the IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay, demonstrating remarkable speed, strength, and endurance in their victories here Sunday.

Li maintained a commanding lead throughout the race, finishing with an impressive time of 4:20:05.

His dominant performance saw him outpace Great Britain’s Christopher Weeks by a substantial margin of 10 minutes in the challenging 1.9km swim, 90km bike ride, and 21.1km run event.

Weeks finished in 4:30:18, while August Benedicto, a local favorite, secured third place in 4:34:21.

Li’s performance was particularly notable during the closing run stage, where he dashed to the finish with an energy that belied

the grueling nature of the halftriathlon race.

The IRONMAN Philippines and the IM 70.3 Subic drew over a thousand triathletes from 54 countries, underscoring the global appeal of the IRONMAN Group-organized event. The two races also offered qualifying slots for three World Championships, including the ongoing full-distance race featuring a 3.8km swim, 180km bike ride, and 42.2km run.

Li, who placed sixth in the full IRONMAN Australia last year, set a strong pace early in the swim leg with the fastest time of 28:38, establishing a two-minute lead over Weeks. Transitioning to the bike leg, the 33-year-old multiage group winner in 70.3 races extended his lead with a time of 2:21:38. He capped off his perfor-

VARIOUS mixed martial artists will earn a great opportunity to showcase their worth as they fight for a huge cash prize and hopefully get a chance to reach the Universal Reality Combat Championship’s main roster in the Prodigy Progression Series (PPS).

The mixed martial arts fight series powered by the URCC, headed by the Filipino MMA founding Father Alvin Aguilar, was formally introduced to the media at the Dynasty Fight Club in Parañaque City last Friday.

Rene Catalan Jr., son of former ONE Championship title contender and 2006 Doha Asian Games wushu sanda gold medalist Rene Catalan Sr., and Marvin Malunes were some of the fighters that attended the press conference.

Aguilar, also the president of the URCC, confirmed that a total of P1million prize pot is at stake in the MMA tournament series, backed by Dynasty Fight Club owner Jun Lee.

“In this format, we’re going to make sure

mance with a powerful finishing kick during the run, completing it in 1:23:58.

Li’s performance mirrored his winning effort at the IRONMAN 70.3 Korea in 2019, highlighting the consistent discipline he has maintained over the years. Meanwhile, Ramo showcased impressive form despite fluctuating weather conditions, including intermittent sunshine and overcast skies. She set the pace with a swim time of 00:30:57, maintained her lead during the bike leg with a time of 02:45:42, and concluded strongly with a run time of 01:47:06, securing the women’s overall crown with a total time of 05:07:33.

“Teamwork makes the dream work,” said Ramo, proudly representing Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte.

that we will be giving the highest payday ever in Philippine MMA history for all the winners,” said Aguilar. “This will be a big life changer for a lot of fighters.”

The tournament’s final champion of each division will take home half of the pot, while the other finalist takes home P300,000. Third placer bags P200,000.

The date of the tournament’s finals will soon be announced.

Lee praised URCC and Aguilar for the wonderful program for MMA fighters as it sustains their livelihood and lets their fighting career continue.

The fighters, according to Aguilar, are divided into four weight classes, flyweight, bantamweight, featherweight, and lightweight categories.

The tournament is now ongoing every night starting 9 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Aside from the tournament’s final champions, the monthly winners starting July will also be rewarded with a prize of P300,000 for first placer and P100,000 for second. Third placer gets P50,000.

Members of the Perpetual Junior Altas celebrate after ruling the NCAA Season 99 Track and Field Championship at the PhilSports Track Oval in Pasig City. Dennis Abrina

Ernest John Obiena

Rabie Jayson Oba-ob

DOTr to pursue Mindanao Railway, wants to change original proposal

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is seeking a revamp of the feasibility study for the Mindanao Railway Project, a major infrastructure initiative envisioned to connect key provinces in the southern Philippines.

“We need to finalize the Mindanao Railway Project study. The original study proposed using diesel-powered trains. However, we should consider adopting a more modern and ecofriendly train system,” Transportation

billion 100.2 kilometers 1,544

Secretary Jaime Bautista said.

“Our consultants are currently evaluating various options,” he said. Bautista said the study would be completed within the Marcos administration.

The Transportation chief earlier said the agency was coordinating with the Department of Finance in seeking alternative funding sources such as

official development assistance (ODA) from other foreign governments and international financial institutions after China withdrew its financial support for the project.

The P81.6-billion Phase 1 of the Mindanao Railway Project has a length of 100.2 kilometers, consisting of eight stations. Once operational, the rail line is expected to serve 122,000 passengers daily and reduce travel time from Tagum City to Digos City to an hour from three hours.

Once the entire Mindanao Railway Project is completed, the 1,544-kilometer rail system will connect key provinces such as Davao, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Cotabato, Zamboanga, Butuan, Surigao and Malaybalay and

pump prime Mindanao’s economic boom.

The massive project, the first railway system outside Luzon, is one of the big-ticket infrastructure projects of the former Duterte administration under the “Build, Build, Build” program.

It is designed to help improve inter-island connectivity and boost economic development in Mindanao.

The Marcos administration appears committed to restarting the project, with a renewed focus on environmental sustainability.

The success of the revamped feasibility study will be crucial in determining the project’s timeline, funding and its impact on Mindanao’s economic trajectory.

DOTr returns Megawide’s EDSA Busway unsolicited offer

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) opted for a solicited public bidding process for the EDSA Busway project as it returned Megawide Construction Corp.’s unsolicited proposal to handle operations and maintenance.

“We returned the proposal to them [Megawide] because we wanted to know more and and we saw that it would be faster to do solicited rather the unsolicited,” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said. Bautista said that under the PPP law, the approval and awarding process of unsolicited proposals would take more than a year compared to less than a year for solicited mode like the privatization of NAIA.

The government plans to bid out the project next year.

The NCR EDSA Busway Project involves the financing, design and construction of enhanced bus stations, operations control centers and parking depots and the purchase, operations and maintenance of a high-capacity busway plying through EDSA and other major and feeder roads.

Darwin G. Amojelar

DEPARTMENT of Transportation

assistant secretary for railways

Jorjette Aquino said ticket prices for the additional five stations of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension project will be affordable for passengers.

Aquino said the current fare structure of a P13.29 boarding fee and a 1.21-centavo distance fare will apply once the new stations become operational by year-end.

“We will be applying the same fare structure, which is P13.29 for

boarding and 1.21 centavos for every kilometer traveled,” Aquino said during a media briefing at the LRT-1 Dr. Santos Station in Parañaque City.

“That’s the same for LRT lines 1 and 2,” she said.

The new stations—RedemptoristASEANA Station, MIA Road Station, PITX Station, Ninoy Aquino Avenue Station, Dr. Santos Avenue Station— are part of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project. Once operational, the rail line will stretch up to Bacoor, Cavite.

said the fare from Baclaran Station to Dr. Santos Station will be P25, while ticket price from FPJ Station to Dr. Santos Station will be P45.

Once fully operational, the LRT1 Cavite Extension Project will reduce travel time from Baclaran in Paranaque to Bacoor, Cavite to 25 minutes. The 11.7-kilometer rail extension is expected to increase its ridership from 500,000 to 800,000 passengers.

AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco

Tiu Laurel Jr. and Philippine Coconut Authority administrator Dexter Buted lauded Garcia Refinery Corp., a private company, for inaugurating a P600million palm oil refinery as the first in Mindanao.

The refinery is expected to spur further development of the palm oil industry in the country.

“The establishment of the first palm oil refinery in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region underscores the immense potential

Economic team welcomes Fitch’s decision to keep PH ratings steady

THE government’s economic team welcomed the decision by Fitch Ratings to keep the Philippines’ investment-grade long-term foreign currency rating at ‘BBB’ with a stable outlook.

“It bears noting that Fitch cited the Philippines’ strong mediumterm growth as one of the reasons for our rating. We hope to sustain our momentum for growth and keep our lead as one of the fastestgrowing economies in Southeast Asia,” said Department of Budget and Management Secretary and Development Budget Coordination Committee chairperson Amenah Pangandaman.

“For our part at the Department of Budget and Management, we will continue to pursue the priorities under our Agenda for Prosperity, such as the Build-BetterMore infrastructure program, and accelerate our reform agenda to ensure that our government spending will yield higher productivity and contribute to the growth story of the country,” she said.

Fitch expects the Philippine economy to expand by 5.8 percent in 2024 and forecasts real GDP growth of above 6 percent over the medium term, supported by investments in infrastructure and public-private partnerships (PPPs).

Fitch cited the country’s strong economic growth, manageable debt levels, sound and effective inflation control by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The country’s investment-grade credit rating has been in place since December 2017.

BSP Governor Eli Remolona, Jr. welcomed Fitch’s recognition of the central bank’s efforts to keep inflation within target and highlighted the BSP’s data-driven approach to setting monetary policy. An investment-grade rating signals reduced credit risk, allowing countries to access funding at lower costs. Darwin G. Amojelar

groups South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City.

“The

Aquino

CIVIC WALK. The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII), together with the Filipino Chinese Amateur Athletic Federation (FCAAF) and other major Filipino Chinese community associations and the Manila City government hold the ‘FFCCCII Lakad Magkaibigan’ civic walk on

Global factors likely to affect PH stocks this week—analysts

By Jenniffer B. Austria

GLOBAL developments will likely affect the movement of Philippine stocks this week, with the US Federal Reserve meeting on June 11 to 12 to set the tone of monetary policy.

“Key economic data releases plus the US Fed policy meeting will be the front and center next week. The highly anticipated Fed meeting on the 11th to 12th, plus inflation reports for May should drive activity in the capital markets,” online brokerage firm

2TradeAsia.com said.

Local inflation rate remained high at 3.9 percent in May, up from 3.8 percent in April.

This brought the five-month inflation to 3.5 percent, still within the government’s target of 2 percent to 4 percent for the year.

2TradeAsia.com said while the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) hinted a possible rate cut in the second half of the year, interest rates would likely remain unchanged when the BSP holds its policy meeting later this month.

Local investors will also continue to monitor foreign exchange rate as the local currency depreciated 0.02 percent week-on-week to 58.52 against the US dollar.

BDO Unibank Inc. said in its weekly outlook while the peso may not touch the record-low of 59 a dollar, the peso may continue to be influenced by US economic data.

The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index jumped 85 points, or 1.33 percent, week-on-week to close at 6,518 on Friday.

Alternergy aims to finish 2 hydro projects by 2025

LISTED Alternergy Holdings Corp. expects to complete two hydropower projects, including the 4.6-megawatt Dupinga Mini Hydropower Project in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija and the 17.4MW Kiangan run-of-river hydro project by late 2024 to early 2025.

“We have the run-off-river project called Dupinga. And then there’s also a project called Kiangan run-off-river hydro. While we are in the driver’s seat in terms of completing those projects, we are minority shareholders in those,” Alternergy president Gerry Magbanua said.

The Dupinga hydro project is being developed by Dupinga Mini Hydro Corp. (DMHC), a partnership between Alternergy and Markham Resources Corp.

DMHC received P600 million in funding from the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) for the Dupinga project. Meanwhile, Kiangan Mini Hydro Corp. (KMHC) is developing the 17.4-MW Kiangan run-of-river hydro project in Ifugao province.

KMHC is a partnership between Alternergy, Renova Renewables of Japan and Sta. Clara International Corp.

The DBP also granted a loan of P2.65 billion for the completion of the Kiangan hydro project, which will consolidate the hydropower output along the three rivers and usher in clean energy for the Tuwali people.

Alena Mae S. Flores

MGen remains keen on Atimonan LNG plant

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MERALCO PowerGen Corp. is still keen on developing Atimonan One Energy Inc. into a gasfired power plant despite signing an agreement to acquire interest in Chromite Gas Holdings (CGHI) that will pave the way for its investment in a combined 2,500-megawatt liquefied natural gas (LNG) assets.

Manila Electric Co. and MGen chairman Manuel Pangilinan said the facility was initially intended as a coal plant, “but now we’re thinking the latest permutation is maybe gas for a number of reasons.”

MGen president Jaime Azurin said A1E is proceeding with the LNG permit applications, “unless the gov-

ernment withdraws the coal moratorium.”

AIE plans to put up a 2,400-MW natural gas-fired combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plant and LNG terminal with floating storage unit in Atimonan, Quezon that is estimated to cost P175 billion.

A1E previously proposed a 1,200-

MW ultra-supercritical coal-fired power plant of high efficiency-low emission in the project site which did not push through due to lack of a power supply agreement and opposition from environmentalist groups.

The company decided to convert the coal plant into a cleaner option—a CCGT power plant using natural gas as fuel, delivered via an LNG carrier and LNG terminal.

MGen and Therma NatGas Power Inc. (TNGP) of the Aboitiz Group announced in March their plan to acquire interest in CGHI that will lay the foundation for their investment in LNG assets valued at $3.3 billion.

MGen will acquire a 60-percent interest, while TNGP take the balance of 40 percent in CGHI.

explore potential collaboration in technology and innovation, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and its application across various sectors with Singapore’s Smart Nation Group.

WASHINGTON—The US Federal Reserve is likely to keep interest rates unchanged this week but could pare back the number of cuts it has penciled in for this year, as policymakers digest a mixed bag of economic data.

Stalled progress against inflation and a robust labor market have pushed many analysts to predict that the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) will not cut interest rates from their current 23-year

high before September at the earliest.

A September start to cuts would likely increase the gap between the Fed and the European Central Bank (ECB), which began easing monetary policy rates last week.

“Data released since the last meeting indicate that the threat of price reacceleration due to strong economic activity has diminished somewhat,” Wells Fargo economists wrote in a recent note to clients.

AUSTRADE VISIT. Fernando Zobel de Ayala, a member of the board of Ayala Corp., welcomes the delegation led by Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu at the company’s

CITICORE Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC) plans to issue greens bonds next year to partially fund its aggressive pipeline of renewable projects.

CREC president Oliver Tan said in an interview the company was looking at issuing green bonds and was just waiting for interest rates to come down.

Green bonds are a type of fixedincome investment used to fund projects with a positive environmental impact.

“We will mostly likely issue the bonds next year because we want to wait for rates to go down,” Tan said. He said the issue size of the proposed bonds remained to be finalized.

CREC’s medium term goal is to build 1,000 megawatts of additional renewable energy capacity annually in the next five years.

CREC secured funding for the first two 1,000-MW projects from its recent initial public offering and investment from SM Investments Corp.

It also secured a financing arrangement with Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) in April for up to P20 billion for the construction of multiple solar power plant projects in Batangas, Pampanga and Negros Occidental.

Tan said the company would use the proceeds from the planned green bonds offering to fund the third batch of 1,000 MW of renewable projects.

“CREC’s expanded balance sheet enable it to issue green bonds to fund third batch for gigawatt projects,” Tan said.

He also expects the company to generate internal funds from the solar projects that will come on stream from operating assets which will be used to fund subsequent renewable projects.

CREC aims to become one of the three largest power producers in the next five years with 5 gigawatts of operating capacity. Jenniffer B. Austria

rate cut expectations

“However, we share the universal expectation that the FOMC will keep its target range for the federal funds rate unchanged at 5.25%-5.50% at the conclusion of its policy meeting on June 12,” they said.

- From three to two? -

After two days of debate, the Fed will publish its interest rate decision on Wednesday afternoon and will also update its economic forecasts from March.

Most analysts expect the data since March will cause the FOMC’s 19 members to lower the number of cuts they expect this year, bringing the median number down from three to two.

“At the June FOMC meeting, we see the Fed revising its outlook in favor of slower growth and firmer inflation,” Bank of America economists wrote in an investor note published Friday. AFP

Foreigners grab ‘majority’ of Saudi Aramco’s share offering

in

RIYADH—Oil giant Saudi Aramco said Sunday that international investors had snatched up the bulk of shares sold in its latest offering, which was set to raise $11.2 billion.

“The majority of the shares constituting the institutional tranche of the Offering was allocated to investors located outside of the Kingdom,” the company said in a statement before shares were to begin trading on the Saudi bourse as it reopens on Sunday.

Sources close to the situation told AFP that around 58 percent of shares were allocated to international investors, up from around 23 percent for the company’s initial public offering in 2019 which was the biggest flota-

GCASH IN NEW YORK. Filipinos visit the GCash booth during the Independence Day commemorations in New York City, hosted by the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI), a non-profit umbrella organization of FilipinoAmerican associations along the East Coast. GCash shared the new features and latest partnership with Meridian, allowing transfers from over 12,000 US banks to GCash accounts.

BUSINESS

‘Alien hacking, not POGOs, pose threat to security’

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) said over the weekend alien hacking and scam syndicates (AHaSS), not licensed offshore gaming operators (POGOs), pose the real threat to national security.

PAGCOR chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco said legitimate internet gaming licensees or IGLs generate funds for the government, contributing more than P5 billion to PAGCOR’s gross revenues in 2023.

“To us, the real threat are the alien hacking and scam syndicates who operate underground, and they are the ones that our law enforcement agencies are trying to locate and dismantle,” Tengco said.

“And we are cooperating fully with the authorities in this regard,” he said.

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto agreed with Tengco, saying that many unscrupulous businesses identifying as POGOs were, in fact, not legitimate POGOs.

“Today, there are a lot of POGOs that are not really POGOs because they are doing something else. But we generalize and call all of them POGOs,” Recto told reporters.

Tengco also appealed to the public to report suspicious alien activities in their communities as such criminal syndicates are usually armed and dangerous.

“We should not blame and demonize our licensed gaming operators because these are closely monitored by PAGCOR,” he said.

“Our licensees pay taxes, and they help provide legitimate jobs and livelihood to a lot of people.”

MONDAY, JUNE 10, 2024

SAFE PRODUCE.

The Department of AgricultureBureau of Plant Industry collects samples from the BPI Kadiwa Center on May 31, 2024 which underwent comprehensive analyses, yielding negative results for harmful substances and contaminants. The first round of food safety testing was conducted using the newlylaunched state-of-the art mobile plant food safety laboratory.

DTI prepares to meet US officials for release of clothing shipments

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it is looking towards a productive meeting with the US government in July to address the issue of detained clothing shipments.

The DTI’s Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) has been engaged in bilateral dialogue with the US for the past few months. The discussions aim to secure the release of Philippinemade apparel flagged over concerns about the use of Uyghur cotton.

“The July meeting provides a valuable opportunity to address the re-

maining concerns of US authorities. We are confident that through continued collaboration, we can find a solution that ensures fair trade practices while safeguarding the interests of both Philippine exporters and the US market,” said EMB director Bianca Sykimte.

The July meeting intends to discuss

PH lauds IPEF agreements, pledges action on clean

DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to regional cooperation and economic integration at the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) Ministerial Meeting on June 6, 2024.

He underscored the need for collective action in addressing common global challenges such as clean energy transition and anti-corruption mechanisms.

“It is important for the Philippines that the IPEF Agreements are able to empower partner countries

the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement. The DTI expects the opportunity to raise the problem of detained shipments at the sidelines of the meeting.

The detention of shipments stemmed from international efforts to combat the use of cotton produced in Xinjiang, China where the Uyghur Muslim minority is reportedly forced into labor.

The US and other countries have taken a strong stance against Uyghur cotton and implemented stricter import regulations to ensure products entering their markets are ethically sourced.

While there have been positive developments, with the US releasing six

energy, anti-corruption

and boost their value propositions as key trade allies and prime locations for strategic, sustainable, and inclusive investments––including by providing access to mechanisms for technical assistance, capacitybuilding and other collaborative activities such as best practices

CENSUS PREPARATION.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), represented by regional director Paciano Dizon of the Regional Statistical Services Office - National Capital Region (RSSONCR), signs a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Pasig City government led by Mayor Victor Ma. Regis Sotto. The agreement is in preparation for the upcoming 2024 Census of Population and Community-Based Monitoring System (POPCEN-CBMS).

and information-sharing, support for infrastructure modernization, workforce and project development, public-private partnerships, and collaboration with the academia,” Pascual said.

Recognizing the significant advancements made since the signing of the Supply Chain Agreement in San Francisco last fall, the DTI chief welcomed the landmark signing of three key agreements––the Overarching Agreement on the IPEF, the Clean Economy Agreement, and the Fair Economy Agreement.

Pascual said with the implementation of the supply chain agreement, he expects the IPEF partners to achieve their goals of improving supply chain transparency, addressing supply chain crises and vulnerabilities, enhancing the role of workers, and promoting labor rights.

BCDA positions New Clark City as leading industrial center, woos foreign investors

STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) reaffirmed its commitment to building New Clark City in Tarlac province as a leading industrial center attracting domestic and foreign investors.

BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang made the statement following the recent visit of Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to the Philippines, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. presented

from 15 shipments that entered the US mainland, the Philippines hopes to expedite the process further. “What worries us is that most of the clothing are meant for particular seasons. Manufacturers will be facing more losses if the shipments go past a certain season,” Sykimte said. The Philippines remains committed to upholding ethical sourcing practices while ensuring the competitiveness of its garment industry, she said. The Philippines sees the upcoming July meeting with US officials as a critical juncture to resolve issues. Sykimte expressed optimism that the DTI could make significant progress in resolving the issue.

CIF funds eyed to retire Mindanao coal power plant

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy plans to use the $500-million funding recently approved by the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) for the retirement or repurposing of the Mindanao coal-fired power plant.

“Along with various commitments to advance global climate goals, the country’s vulnerability to climate-induced disasters underscores the need for immediate action to achieve a just energy transition. We welcome the Climate Investment Funds’ approval of the $500 million funding under the Accelerating Coal Transition Investment Program, which will pave the way towards creating an enabling environment for a just energy transition that supports sustainable development objectives,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.

New Clark City as a prime destination for Singaporean investments.

“We are thrilled to have none other than President Marcos Jr. as our ambassador for New Clark City. With his support, we can certainly attract more investors to choose this area as they pursue expansion and investment opportunities,” he said.

The President underscored the government’s vision of transforming New Clark City into an industrial hub where Singaporean businesses can contribute.

DA to replicate onion program’s success with garlic, ginger, shallots

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) aims to replicate the success of its onion production program with other local spices such as garlic, ginger and shallots.

“These spices are very basic to us. That’s why our value proposition is that, for example, a clove of native garlic is equal in potency to that provided by the bigger-sized import,” said Agriculture Undersecretary Cheryl Marie Natividad-Caballero, who is in-charge of the DA’s highvalue crops program.

She cited the international acclaim for Ilocos garlic and noted the DA’s efforts to prevent the smuggling of these valuable planting materials overseas.

“The DA is supporting efforts to preserve the garlic heritage through ge-

nomics. So, we are looking at a strategic investment in resilient agriculture… to again position our bawang as Ilocos’ white gold in the 1990s,” she said.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority revealed that local garlic production falls far short of national demand.

The Philippines produces only 2.6 percent of its annual garlic requirement, which stands at 146,879 metric tons. Ilocos Norte, Batanes and Nueva Ecija are the leading producers of garlic in the country.

The DA instructed its offices in Region II to procure garlic from Ilocos Norte and Batanes as early as March.

This garlic will be distributed to farmers as planting materials for the upcoming September season. Othel V. Campos

“On the BCDA’s part, we commit to develop New Clark City according to the masterplan, with the vision of creating the country’s green, resilient, inclusive, and smart metropolis. We want to position New Clark City as an investment haven and tourist destination—one that will support the Marcos administration’s socioeconomic agenda of establishing livable and

sustainable communities, revitalizing industries, and generating quality jobs,” Bingcang said.

New Clark City, which spans 9,450 hectares, is a greenfield development within the Clark Special Economic Zone. It’s envisioned as an inclusive, resilient, sustainable and smart city.

The major metropolis aims to decongest Metro Manila and act as an investment hub, fostering growth in Central Luzon. Othel V. Campos

QR PAYMENT.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas launches the Paleng-QR program in Sta. Ana, Cagayan on May 27, 2024 to promote the use of QR Ph payment in markets, public transportation and various businesses. The PalengOR program also aims to intensify financial inclusion.

The CIF, which governs the pioneering multilateral climate fund and delivers low-cost finance to over 70 developing countries, recently endorsed a new investment plan presented by the government, allocating $500 million for a just transition from coal to renewable power in the country.

The energy chief said the funds would also enable energy transition initiatives while replacing the generation output of coal plants through the development of new renewable energy facilities.

“The challenges of accelerated coal retirement in a private sector-led power industry remain. However, we trust that the ACT Investment Program will serve as a robust blueprint for the process of transitioning away from coal and subsequently fuel the development of the country with clean energy,” Lotilla said.

“The realization of this aspiration is only possible through sustained and meaningful engagements with our stakeholders and outcomes-based support from our global partners,” he said.

The Philippines plans to accelerate the retirement of up to 900 MW of existing coal generation capacity by 2027.

CIF funding will support efforts to add 1,500 MW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 which could include battery systems, offshore wind, floating solar and pumped hydro projects.

POWER PROFILE

BCDA president Joshua Bingcang admits being ‘lonely at the top’

By Jimmy Montejo

E HAs the unmistakable aura of self-confidence you can’t help but decide you are lucky to be up close and personal with him.

Foreign reserves rose to $104.5b in May, says BSP

By Darwin G. Amojelar

New

THE Philippines’ gross international reserves climbed to $104.48 billion as of end-May 2024 from the end-April level of $102.65 billion, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said over the weekend.

It said the latest GIR level represented a more than adequate external liquidity buffer equivalent to 7.7 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income.

It was also about 5.9 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 3.6 times based on residual maturity.

“The month-on-month increase in the GIR level reflected mainly the national government’s net foreign currency deposits with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas which include proceeds from its issuance of ROP global bonds and net income from the BSP’s investments abroad,” the BSP said. The net international reserves, which refers to the difference between the BSP’s GIR and reserve liabilities (short-term foreign debt and credit and loans from the International Monetary Fund), increased by $1.87 billion to $104.46 billion as of end-May from $102.59 billion a month earlier.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the May GIR level was still above the minimum international threshold of 3 to 4 months and could still provide greater buffer/support/cushion on the peso exchange rate against any speculative attacks.

“For the coming months, the country’s GIR could still be supported by the continued growth in the country’s structural inflows from OFW remittances, BPO revenues, exports [though offset by imports] and relatively fast recovery in foreign tourism revenue,” he said.

After all, Joshua M. Bingcang is the president and chief executive of a most dynamic government-owned and controlled city builder—the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) created by Republic Act (7227 enacted on March 13, 1992.

He admits though that it is “lonely at the top.”

Jake, as he is called by friends and close associates, approached us for the interview over scrumptious lunch at the posh Shangri-La Hotel in Bonifacio Global City—still vibrant and dashingly good looking even with the day already half done.

Easily, he can be any lady’s man, but eat your heart out, woman! He is married and has two beautiful daughters and one girl.

“I am a proud being FilipinoMexican,” he said, explaining that he was born and raised in Mexico, Pampanga.

Bingcang is a licensed electrical engineer and holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of the Philippines. He also attended an Urban Policy and Governance program at the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and trained at the Harvard Kennedy School in Public-Private Partnerships in Infrastructure in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

He was named top honcho of the BCDA in an order signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on June 2, 2023, replacing his former boss Aileen Anunciacion Zosa.

A walk-through of his track records at the BCDA would show that Jake was also former president and CEO of the Clark International Airport Corp. and senior vice president of the BCDA Group.

He managed and supervised some of the group’s biggest development projects such as the construction and maintenance of the Subic-ClarkTarlac Expressway, development of Clark Freeport Zone, construction of first phase of the National Government Administrative Center in New

plans

WELLINGTON—New Zealand’s government said Sunday it plans to reverse a five-year-old ban on new oil and gas exploration, igniting a backlash from political opponents and environmental groups. A bill to be introduced this year would end the ban that has only allowed exploration for new petroleum on some onshore fields in the country’s North Island.

Resources Minister Shane Jones claimed the ban had stymied interna-

tional investment and left the country’s energy security compromised.

“Natural gas is critical to keeping our lights on and our economy running, especially during peak electricity demand,” Jones said in a statement.

“When the exploration ban was introduced by the previous government in 2018... it also shrank investment in further development of our known gas fields which sustain our current levels of use.”

interventions such as consulting and training services.

ROMLEAH Pulido Ocampo, a veteran of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), became the agency’s new executive director on June 1, 2024.

Ocampo, previously the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Cagayan Valley regional director, thanked outgoing officer-in-charge Malou Mediran for her support. She outlined her vision for a stronger, more collaborative CITEM that would reclaim its position as the country’s leading ex-

Clark City and expansion of Clark International Airport, to name a few.

This man now eyes consolidation of all BCDA assets, notably the Philippine Army’s Fort Bonifacio now called Bonifacio Global City (BGC), the Air Force’s Nichol’s Airbase known as Newport City, the United States military’s Clark Field in Pampanga which as been renamed Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone and the American troops’ erstwhile resort and vacation spot Camp John Hay in Baguio City which was rechristened John Hay Special Economic Zone.

The group also has the Poro Point Freeport Zone and the Bataan Technology Park. With the land development of BGC and Newport City nearly winding up (about 80-percent complete), Bingcang trains his sights on Clark north of Metro Manila. He wants to convert the area into a dynamic, progressive, bustling and sustainable mixed-use state comparable to Singapore.

For starters, Bingcang looks forward to a bus rapid transit system for Tarlac, Bulacan and Pampanga. Parallel to the bus line is a railway system traversing Metro Manila to Calamba City in Laguna province. By 2027, a bus rapid transit (BRT) spanning 50 kilometers to 60 km. may finally connect passengers in Pampanga and Tarlac and service routes to Clark International Airport as the government seeks to provide mass transport in the emerging business district, the BCDA said. Bingcang said the projected Clark Integrated Public Transport System would traverse New Clark City in Tarlac and Clark Airport and Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga. Bidding for the project, estimated at P3 billion to P5 billion, is expected to be held by the fourth quarter of 2024 or the first quarter of 2025. Construction would possibly take two years.

“It is a mass transport. It is what we want. Less pollution, less cars,” he said.

Greens co-leader Chloe Swarbrick said the government was “tipping oil and gas onto the climate crisis fire”.

“We can have a more sustainable and efficient economy by prioritising clean energy that works with the environment, not against it.”

Jones said the ban would mark the start of a “suite of proposed amendments” designed to spark investment, saying the petroleum and minerals sector contributed US$1.2 billion to GDP in 2020-21.

IN BRIEF

Tourism buoys ‘Club Med’ nations MADRID, Spain—Derided as “Club Med” nations during the European debt crisis 15 years ago, the economies of Spain, Greece and Portugal are now out

even if we are not pressing down as hard as before.”

The ECB on Thursday lowered the eurozone’s record high key deposit rate by a quarter of a point to 3.75 percent after having kept borrowing costs on hold since October. AFP

exploration

He said the government plans to ease how petroleum exploration applications are tendered.

The announcement comes a day after thousands protested in New Zealand’s biggest cities, objecting to another government initiative to boost the economy.

The “Fast Track Approvals” bill would allow several environmental regulations to be bypassed and the consenting process sped up for major infrastructure projects. AFP

port promotion agency.

“We will be collaborative and strategic, inclusive, and an important and indispensable part of a robust ecosystem that supports MSME development, industry development, and export development,” Ocampo said. Her plans include revitalizing the CITEM brand and core functions, aiming for unmatched credibility and industry authority in export promotion. She expects the organization to intensify its efforts across all chan-

BUTUAN CITY— The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recognizes the critical role of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in driving innovation, creating jobs and fostering economic growth through its Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP).

SETUP is a key DOST strategy to stimulate investment in urban, periurban and rural areas. The program has been adapted over the years to meet the changing needs of MSMEs. Under the program, assisted MSMEs can address technological challenges by acquiring appropriate technologies and adopting DOST-generated systems and other science and technology (S&T) interventions, such as consulting and training services.

SETUP helps MSMEs test products for compliance with international standards, package and label products, and create and manage databases and information systems. The program also connects MSMEs with national and international organizations for raw materials, markets, training, financing, and equipment design and fabrication.

nels, including social media. CITEM will focus on expanding regional export development and participation throughout the Philippines, she said. Ocampo underscored the importance of building partnerships with research institutions, academia, and local government units. The CITEM leader expects more initiatives to adapt global best practices and marketing benchmarks while encouraging staff development and providing efficiency tools.

The Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) helps micro, small and medium enterprise’s address their technological problems through the acquisition of appropriate technologies and the adoption of DOST-generated systems and other science and technology (S&T)-based

Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) executive director Romleah Pulido Ocampo

Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang

CLI delivers over 16,200 housing units

LEADING developer in VisMin Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) reported continued growth as it delivered 16,282 housing units to the market as of 2023.

In maintaining its growth and profitability, CLI has consistently delivered value to its shareholders, distributing P2.5 billion in dividends since its initial public offering with an additional P0.18 per share declared and paid this year.

“Over the years, CLI emerged as a resilient and agile organization, able to surpass crises and headwinds,” CLI chairman and CEO Jose Soberano III said during the company’s annual stockholders meeting on June 4 held in Citadines Cebu City.

“Starting with one housing project in Balamban, Cebu, CLI now has 119 projects spread all over the Philippines by the end of 2023, while our net income grew 24 percent compounded annual growth rate in seven years from P778 million to P3.58 billion,” Soberano said. CLI continues its market leadership

in 2023 with the launch of 10 projects valued at P18.7 billion, including the newly introduced Mirani brand with housing units priced from P1.9 million to P2.9 million for the affordable market segment. The company posted stellar sales performance reaching P20.6 billion in reservation sales, with a 93 percent sell-out status of all projects.

The listed company also expanded its hospitality portfolio by opening three hotels and now boasts more than 1,500 room keys with six more hotel projects underway. This committed investment in our tourism industry is poised to drive future revenue growth and improve our cash flow profile, all the while enhancing CLI’s existing projects where value synergies are created.

The company also announced its first international partnership with the Japanese mega conglomerate NTT, through CLI NUD Ventures Inc., a testament to how CLI is meeting international standards in its developments.

Ayala Land triumphs at

the 14th Asian Excellence Awards

CORPORATE Governance Asia recognized Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) in multiple categories in its 14th Asian Excellence Awards, held last May 30, 2024, at JW Marriott Hong Kong.

ALI’s president and chief executive officer Anna Ma. Margarita B. Dy was celebrated as Asia’s Best CEO. This recognition affirms the significant strides Ayala Land has made under her stewardship. Dy’s strategic direction and leadership have been pivotal in driving the company’s new growth plans. Meanwhile, Augusto D. Bengzon, the company’s chief finance officer and chief compliance officer, was honored as Asia’s Best CFO. Bengzon’s financial expertise and insight have helped steer ALI’s strategies and ensured sustained

financial health and compliance which have been fundamental to the company’s success. ALI’s dedication to sustainability and corporate responsibility was also accorded with the Sustainable Asia and Asia’s Best CSR awards. These recognitions highlight the company’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainable practices into its operations and its commitment to positively impacting the communities it serves. Furthermore, ALI was also recognized as the Best Investor Relations Company in the Philippines, and Michael Anthony L. Garcia, Head of Investor Relations, was recognized as the Best Investor Relations Professional.

DMCI Homes unit launches eco-agri condotel in Benguet

By Jenniffer B. Austria

DMCI Homes Leisure Residences, the leisure brand of property developer DMCI Homes, has expanded its condotel portfolio with the launch of Moncello Crest, a new residential resort in the municipality of Tuba in Benguet province.

Moncello Crest is located a few minutes’ drive from Baguio City, offering residents and investors the cool, refreshing climate of the upland region.

The new development promises to be a haven for those seeking both a vacation home and a lucrative investment opportunity.

DMCI last year launched Solmera Coast, its inaugural venture into the leisure property market. The beach park condotel complex in San Juan, Batangas was a huge success, generating P5.6 billion in reservation sales within a month from the launch.

Promising investment

an“altar in the sky.” It boasts of breathtaking views of Benguet’s mountains and captivating sunsets, providing a tranquil escape for the mind and soul. Surrounded by lush flora and fauna, it offers a serene retreat.

As a mountain resort, Moncello Crest provides amenities such as a heated outdoor jacuzzi and fire pits to ensure guests stay cozy in Benguet’s cool climate. Other amenities include an all-day dining restaurant, café, game room, spa, gym, multi-purpose athletics area, daycare center and a convention center for large gatherings.

The Moncello Crest offers property buyers looking for a second home an opportunity to secure a vacation home that doubles as a source of income. Under Moncello Crest’s individual rental pool program, property owners can entrust their condo units under the management of a hotel operator to earn rental profits.

The units will continue to be owned by its buyers, who in turn get 30 percent of rental revenues.

Assuming a 35-percent occupancy rate for the property, unit owners at Moncello Crest may earn about P16,300 monthly from a 35-square meter (sq. m.) studio unit and about P42,700 for two-bedroom units.

Property owners will also have the opportunity to avail of the condotel room themselves, under the Leisure Plus program, which is DMCI Homes Leisure Residences’ program for complimentary room nights.

Unit owners are entitled to stay at Moncello Crest for at least 30

nights a year, depending on the size of their investment and their choice of room. They can also use their complimentary stays at Solmera Coast in San Juan, Batangas as well as in other DMCI Homes Leisure future developments.

“Investing at Moncello Crest gives owners the best of both worlds as they can earn from the property on most days and use the units for the occasional breather,”DMCI said. Rooms at Moncello Crest will feature uniform furniture and fixtures to offer a relaxing hotel-like experience to visitors with cozy sofa beds and beds, balcony furniture, tables and lamps, and the like.

Home away from home

Moncello Crest seamlessly combines refined style with welcoming ambiance in its layout and design. Its name draws from montel, an Italian word for mountain, and the Spanish word ariceli referring to

With a spacious roof deck, visitors can relax while taking in the picturesque Benguet skyline. Inside, Moncello Crest showcases Filipino-inspired décor and architecture, curated by Aedas, a globally respected design firm, for an authentic cultural experience.

New summer destination

Given its proximity to Baguio and its thriving agri-tourism industry, Tuba has emerged as one of the popular tourist destinations in the northern part of the country. It provides a convenient and a more peaceful alternative for those looking to enjoy the Philippines’ Summer Capital with less noise, pollution and traffic.

The property is accessible via Marcos Highway and is within Barangay Poblacion. The property is just a 20-minute drive from Baguio’s tourist hotspots like Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, Session Road and the Loakan Airport currently under rehabilitation.

Among the tourist attractions that could be found within Tuba are the BenCab Museum, which is 17 minutes away from the property, hot spring resorts and the Pan Ay-Ayaman Eco Park.

“Tuba is filled with agri-tourism parks and community farms that offer a new way of cultural immersion––perfect for curious travelers,” DMCI Homes said.

Okada Manila commits to ‘Generation Restoration’ on World Environment Day

HOTEL and casino Okada Manila joins the global community in celebrating World Environment Day 2024, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability with this year’s theme, “Generation Restoration.” The focus is on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience, highlighting the urgent need to revive natural spaces for a sustainable future. This year’s World Environment Day focuses on land restoration, desertification, and building drought resilience under the slogan, “Our Land. Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration.” The current generation is the first to witness severe environmental degradation and the last with the chance to counter it and achieve global climate and biodiversity goals.

In line with this year’s theme, Okada Manila has implemented several key initiatives that underscore its dedication to environmental stewardship.

Okada Manila has partnered with Nuvali, ABS-CBN Bantay Kalikasan, and the Motolite-PBSP Balik Baterya program, to engage in tree planting activities that will contribute to reforestation efforts in critical areas such as the Marikina Watershed and La Mesa Dam. The Nursery at Okada Manila propagates, stocks, and grows plants for internal and external landscapes. It also serves as a recuperation area for indoor plants displayed around the property.

and

also utilizes state-of-the-art

MONDAY, JUNE 10, 2024

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

HAVING been in the industry for several years, TV5 Noontime Princess Miles Ocampo has come to understand that until a project hits the airwaves, she remains replaceable.

This realization hit her once again when APT’s Mike Tuviera presented her with the opportunity to portray the titular role in TV5’s latest morning soap, Padyak Princess

“That’s why until now it hasn’t sunk in yet,” Miles said during the press conference for the show, which premieres today.”

“Acting has been my aspiration since childhood,” Miles went on, “Ever since I was young, I wanted to become an actress. I told my parents that I wanted to be inside the box or be seen on TV — that was really my dream.”

Her dream continues as Princess, whom she describes as a charming and determined young woman working as a padyak driver.

As she steps into this new role, Miles said she wants to inspire viewers with “my character’s determination and humor.” She even revealed the physical and emotional hurdles she faced while preparing for it.

“I know how to bike. Kasi, padyak naman, so tatlo ang gulong. But there are adjustments because ngayon lang ulit ako nag-work ng super, super requires physical activity. So I should be ready,” she said, adding that she made sure to meet the physical demands of her character, given her health condition.

“It requires patience. And of course, water (to stay hydrated), No. 1 kakampi talaga,” she remarked.

Despite battling Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma and undergoing surgery just last year, Miles is determined to do justice to her role.

“I just came from an operation and all. So it’s been a while since I did something like this kind of work. In my first three tapings, talagang mabibigla, lalo na po sa padyak, and the weather is really hot,” the 27-year-old actress recalled.

“I now feel that I’m an expert

SHOWBIZ

Charlie Dizon, Romnick Sarmenta big winners in Gawad Urian

By Angelica Villanueva

YOUNG actress Charlie Dizon and seasoned actor Romnick Sarmenta emerged victorious in the Best Actress and Best Actor categories, respectively, at the 47th edition of the Gawad Urian Awards held Saturday night at De La Salle University in Manila.

Charlie’s powerful performance in Third World Romance, propelled her to winning the coveted award surpassing fellow actresses Kathryn Bernardo, Gabby Padilla, and Max Eigenmann. The film further solidified its success with wins for Best Director (Dwein Baltazar), Best Music, and Best Production Design (Eero Yves Francisco). Meanwhile, Romnick bested fellow nominees, including Carlo Aquino from Third World Romance Cedrick Juan for GomBurZa, and Euwenn

Miles Ocampo pedals her

way

into viewers’ hearts

Mikaell Aleta of Firefly. His film, About Us But Not About Us, also scored a win for Best Screenplay, written and directed by Jun Robles Lana

The Gawad Urian ceremony recognized the contributions of veteran actors as well. Ronnie Lazaro and Dolly de Leon both recipients of Best Supporting Actor and Actress awards, respectively, also hailed from films that garnered recognition. Ronnie’s The Gospel of the Beast won Best Editing, while Dolly’s Iti Mapukpukaw (a critically acclaimed film featuring both Ronnie and Dolly) triumphed in the Best Picture, Best Animation, and Best Sound categories.

The prestigious Natatanging Gawad Urian award was bestowed upon veteran film and TV star

riding the bike. Pero parang kahit sabi po nilang liko sa kanan, I could do it.

It’s fun because it’s also my first time to have a project like this. Of course, there are times when it gets tiring, but you always go back to why you are doing this and for whom you are doing it, and it’s really for my family,” she added.

Miles expressed gratitude for the opportunity to take on such a significant project.

“I’m relatively new to TV5, and I’m

grateful because, with so many people who could be chosen for these kinds of projects, they chose me to do it,” Miles stated.

Joining the actress in Padyak Princess are Ara Mina, Ces Quesada, Christian Vasquez, Cris Villanueva, Yayo Aguila, Gillian Vicencio, Jameson Blake, Jem Manicad, Joao Constancia, Karissa Toliongco, Kira Balinger, David Remo, and Miel Espinoza. It airs on TV5 daily at 11:15 a.m., with same-day catch-up on BuKo at 7:30 p.m.

Imelda Papin piggybacks on iconic song as inspiration for first PCSO project

JUKEBOX Queen Imelda Papin recently appointed as the Acting board member of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), intends to extend the agency’s services from Monday to Sunday. This initiative, which she refers to as “isang Linggong Serbisyo,” aims to provide assistance even on weekends.

According to Papin, she previously discussed this with the President, and they both welcomed the idea, with him urging her to implement it as soon as possible.

The drive behind this initiative stems from what she claims is a significant number of Filipinos in need of medical services, whose needs aren’t confined to specific days.

Papin elaborated, “Many patients are discharged by doctors on Friday afternoons when they have recovered, so they don’t have a chance to seek help from PCSO anymore.”

“To access PCSO’s assistance, certain requirements need to be submitted. So we are open even on Saturday and Sunday, even online requests, if approved immediately, will be processed promptly to minimize delays,” she added.

Papin officially assumed her new position on June 4 and begins her duties today.

While some in the showbiz industry anticipated her appointment from Malacañang, she expressed a different kind of joy upon receiving confirmation from the Office of the President.

“I wholeheartedly welcome this appointment as I am dedicated to public service,” she stated.

Despite the widespread support, there are dissenting voices, claiming she lacks qualifications for the position. Does she feel affected?

“It’s okay. Firstly, the trust bestowed upon me by the President wouldn’t have been given if I didn’t deserve the position or couldn’t handle it.”

The cast of TV5’s morning soap ‘Padyak Princess’

From left: Maffi Papin Carrion, President Bongbong Marcos, Imelda Papin, and Zac Papin

Imelda Papin has been appointed as an acting member of the PCSO Board of Directors

Hilda Koronel

Charlie Dizon takes home the Best Actress award for her performance in ‘Third World Romance’

Romnick Sarmenta’s performance in ‘About Us But Not About Us’ earns him the coveted Best Actor award

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

By Angelica Villanueva

THE name of rapper-turnedentrepreneur Boss Toyo has become synonymous with finding unique and valuable items through his popular Pinoy Pawnstars series.

During an interview at Ginebra San Miguel’s World Gin Day event, Boss Toyo, known in real life as Jayson Luzadas, shared his broader vision that extends beyond mere profits. He revealed that his pawn shop business has generated P14 million over two years, yet his primary focus is on long-term goals and sustainability.

“As of now, I’m not looking for ROI [return on investment] at the moment kasi I’m looking long term, kung pwede nga maipasa ko sa mga anak ko,” Boss Toyo said. He also emphasized his goal of establishing an “institute” that celebrates the value of memorabilia from Filipino celebrities and historical figures.

“‘Yun na yung ROI, pag na-establish ko isang institute na ako nagsimula magbigay halaga sa mga gamit ng sikat at kilalang tao dito sa Pilipinas,” he continued.

Among his collection, Boss Toyo revealed his favorite items, stating that some of them once belonged to the iconic rapper Francis Magalona

“Of course, the timeless Francis Magalona items. Naturally, I’m the only one who has those. So, that’s one of my most cherished possessions,” Boss Toyo shared in Filipino.

These include clothes, jerseys, and photos, all acquired from the artist’s alleged former lover, Abegail Raite

“The love letter is my favorite because it’s a handwritten letter from Francis Magalona that was kept hidden for a long time and nobody knew about it,” he added.

Speaking to Manila Standard Entertainment, Boss Toyo disclosed the items he is still hoping to acquire to add to his current collection.

“Like the Captain Barbell items from Edu Manzano and Herbert Bautista. Then there’s [Lastikman] from Vic Sotto. Those are things I want, and also anything from Ina Raymundo because she’s my idol,” stated Boss Toyo.

When asked about selling these prized

Take a trip down memory lane with Neocolors

THE 1980s iconic OPM (Original Pilipino Music) band Neocolours is the ninth band to take the spotlight at City of Dreams Manila’s CenterPlay Concert Series. The six-member band holds a onenight-only concert on June 27 at 9:00 p.m. A pop-rock band formed in the mid80s, Neocolours made a mark on the local music industry with its hit songs “Tuloy Pa Rin”, “Say You’ll Never Go”, “Kasalanan Ko Ba”, and “Hold On,” among others – tunes that transcend decades and continue to be enjoyed across generations. Timeless and iconic, these chart-topping love songs were given renditions by some of the country’s top recording artists and were featured in commercials, films, and television shows. Neocolours Live at CenterPlay follows the successful sold-out concert shows staged by CenterPlay, a contemporary bar on City of Dreams Manila’s gaming floor known for presenting OPM artists every last Thursday of the month.

OPM icons previously featured at CenterPlay’s Concert Series include Jinky Vidal, Yeng Constatntino, Raymond

possessions, Boss Toyo shared that he wouldn’t part with some, especially the truly rare pieces.

“For me, I definitely wouldn’t sell them yet... For me, it’s a bragging right. I’m the only one who has those. It’s also a bragging

Boss Toyo focuses on legacy over business profits

right for my shop because we’re the only ones who have them,” he stated. Boss Toyo was recently named as one of the newest “Gin-is-In” ambassadors, alongside Attorney Oliver Moeller actress Mikee Quintos

Lauchengco, Janno Gibbs, Rey Valera, Ice Seguerra Nina, and The CompanY Neocoloyrs’ upcoming concert also showcases the Soulmates band and other DJs who will perform alternately from 8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Guests can reserve a seat or a table with consumables starting at P2,500, comprising of bar snacks, burgers, fries, and beverages. VIP couch seats for a party of eight at P20,000 and VIP Small Tables for a group of four at P10,000 are also available, inclusive of consumables.

Designed for the ultimate entertainment experience, CenterPlay is a cool snack and cocktail lounge offering light meals, signature cocktail concoctions, beers, wines, and other beverages, and is built around the circular stage at the center of the main gaming floor. For reservations and information on upcoming performances at CenterPlay, call 8800-8080 or e-mail guestservices@ cod-manila.com, or visit www. cityofdreamsmanila.com

Alice Reyes Dance PH stages Independence Day show

By Abigail Adriatico

IN CELEBRATION of the country’s 126th Independence Day, dance company Alice Reyes Dance Philippines will be staging a show titled Sayaw Tungo sa Kalayaan

Commemorating the country’s journey to independence, the show is directed by National Artist for Dance Alice Reyes along with Alice Reyes Dance Philippines Artistic Director Ronelson Yadao. The music and cultural show will feature music composed by Ryan Cayabyab, Fabian Obispo, Jerrold Tarog, Francisco Santiago, and Kent Charcos The event will also be graced by renowned figures in the industry such as Shiela Valderrama-Martinez, Antonio Fernandez Ferrer, Poppert A. Bernadas, and Nica Tupas The show serves as a collaboration between the dance company, the Office of the President, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. The Sayaw Tungo sa Kalayaan will be held at the Burnham Greens, Quirino Grandstand tonight at 7:00. Admission will be free for all.

By Angelica Villanueva

FOR the second year running, the Philippines has secured its position as a leading destination for Muslim travelers outside the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index recognized the country for its commitment to halal tourism initiatives, highlighting the country’s dedication to building a welcoming environment for Muslim tourists through halal tourism initiatives, which include halal food options, incorporating prayer facilities at tourist spots, and educating tourism businesses about Muslim needs.

The recognition was announced at the Halal in Travel Global Summit in Singapore. Mastercard, a partner in the ranking index, highlighted the Philippines’ improvement in communication efforts to attract Muslim tourists.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco acknowledged the halal tourism as a significant growth area. The term

“halal tourism” refers to travel that caters to Muslim preferences, including halal food, prayer spaces, and privacyconscious recreation options for women. She then emphasized the Tourism department’s commitment to further expand the halal tourism.

“By prioritizing this, we not only demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity but also open up opportunities to attract more Muslim travelers from around the world, while expanding markets for our tourism stakeholders and creating more livelihood and employment for our fellow Filipinos,” she said.

The summit’s timing coincided with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s visit to Brunei, where Secretary Frasco signed a tourism cooperation agreement to further develop halal tourism in the Philippines. This focus reflects the inclusion of halal tourism as a priority product in the National Tourism Development Plan (20232028), recognizing the promising future of this travel sector.

Boss Toyo (rightmost) serves as one of the new ‘Gin-is-In’ ambassadors named during Ginebra San Miguel’s World Gin Day celebration

OPM band Neocolors is known for their hit songs ‘Tuloy Pa Rin,’‘Say You’ll Never Go,’ ‘Kasalanan Ko Ba,’ and ‘Hold On’

The country’s efforts in halal tourism has been recognized during the Halal in Travel Global Summit

The dance company’s ‘Sayaw Tungo sa Kalayaan’ is directed by National Artist for Dance Alice Reyes and its artistic director Ronelson Yadao , and

Boss Toyo is known for his popular ‘Pinoy Pawnstars’ series

Conrad Manila celebrates art inspired by nature and music

IT’S been a dizzying series of work-related meetings and events through the past few weeks so when the invitation to the opening of Conrad Manila’s 30th instalment of its Of Art and Wine events came in, I made sure I’d go. I needed the leisurely breather to be with friends, aside from the fact that I know one of the featured artists.

of the two. On the other hand, Rico Lascano’s body of work captures the essence of Zen Buddhism, fostering calm and contemplation among viewers. Going over the entire spread of masterpieces by both artists, I immediately noticed the stark difference between the styles of each artist. Capili’s passion for music can be seen in his brushstrokes, which depict the rhythm of rain and wind, as well as the vibrant crescendo of colors in bloom. His art pieces have metallic orbs that symbolize the sun and the moon overseeing the portrayed eternal and universal harmony.

Among his many attractive artworks I like most the one labeled “Sunset Melody,” (shown on this page) a colorful piece made of acrylic on shaped canvas, with engraved

plexiglass and a golden stainless sphere right in the center.

The subdued colors of Lascano’s art pieces portray nature as serene, inviting internal reflection and deep contemplation. Practically devoid of color, yet suffused with light, looking at his artwork put me into a meditative repose highlighting nature’s intrinsic characteristics as something inherently spiritual.

To me, what stands out among his soothing-to-look-at masterpieces is the trio of “Quietude VI, Quietude VII, Quietude VIII,” (as shown on this page) made of mixed media on cold press Strathmore paper. They made for a very relaxing view that forever-on-the-go urbanites like me, would like to look at.

The evening’s program started with Conrad Manila’s General Manager, Fabio Berto, reiterating the hotel’s commitment to promoting our country’s art and culture through its Of Art and Wine series which is now on its 30th edition. He further stressed that these events have been mounted for their hotel guests and art patrons to experience the interchange of emotions that nature evokes through artworks.

The traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony had GM Fabio Berto, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) president Elizabeth Sy, artists Ross Capili and Rico Lascano, and Nelson Guevarra, Board Member of the Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FCCCI). SMHCC executive vice-president Peggy Angeles made the celebratory toast to the talented artists.

Interchange on Gallery C on the 3rd floor of the hotel is open to the public until Aug. 3 this year. More information on Conrad Manila’s art collection and its other offerings is available at www.conradmanila.com or at +632 8833 999.

MONDAY CHUCKLE

smart aleck saw a new book, “How To Solve Half Of Your Problems” in the bookstore, so he bought two.

For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com

rivers. Additionally, The View at The Palm offers breathtaking panoramic

pieces by artists Rico Lascana and Ross Capili surrounding the theme of nature

The exhibit showcases the captivating contrast between the art styles of Capili and Lascano

From left: Artist Ross Capili, SMHCC Executive Vice President Peggy ANgeles, FCCCI Board Member Nelson Guevara, SMHCC President Elizabeth Sy, artist Rico Lascano, and Conrad Manila General Manager Fabio Berto

Conrad Manila General Manager Fabio

Berto expounds on the hotel’s efforts to foster the local art and culture through the ‘Of Art and Wine’ exhibits

SMHCC Executive Vice President Peggy Angeles offers a toast to the artists’ fine work Dubai bears numerous establishments that offers fresh experiences to the Filipino community

Tourists can marvel at the breathtaking view of Dubai’s skyline at

The Wild Wadi Waterpark offers