Manila Standard - 2024 June 11 - Tuesday

Teves freed, re-arrested

By Rey E. Requejo

The Department of Justice said expelled Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr. was rearrested after he was briefly released from preventive detention in Timor-Leste.

The DOJ belied the release claim of Teves' legal counsel, saying the former lawmaker was mmediately placed under the custody of the Polícia Nacional of Timor Leste (PNTL).

"Rep. Arnolfo Teves was released from preventive detention pending his extradition trial, my Timor Leste counterparts inform me, because the request for extradition by the Philippine Government was made out of time and in a manner that is not sanctioned by practice and customary international law,” lawyer Ferdinand Topacio said in a statement.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATE President Pro Tempore

Jinggoy Estrada on Monday said Memorandum Circular No. 52, which provides for the recital of the Bagong Pilipinas hymn and pledge, is neither illegal nor irregular.

He noted that it aims to foster a culture of good governance and

Southwoods City

Laguna and Carmona, Cavite. This is also the first and only township that has its own tollway exit to and from the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX).

Cops storm Quiboloy HQ, serve arrest warrants

By Vince Lopez

AROUND 100 police from two special battalions stormed properties associated with fugitive televangelist and Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy on Monday dawn to serve arrest warrants against him and five of his co-accused.

The operation at the KOJC Compound in Barangay Buhangin, Davao City and four other properties of Quiboloy in the province came three weeks after at least 35 members of the Davao City Police Office were relieved from their posts.

“Our request is for all of us to remain

calm. Your police officers are there for the official discharge of their duties. Our police have no intention of causing any harm or disorder,” PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said.

“I also want to take this opportunity to once again appeal to Pastor Quiboloy and the other accused to avoid situations like this. I hope they will surrender and face the charges filed against them so they can have the opportunity to address these complaints,” Fajardo added. Tensions rose at the Buhangin compound after supporters of Quiboloy formed a human barricade to prevent the police from entering the compound

By Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

A HOUSE leader on Monday warned POGOpolitics will doom the country amid a growing clamor for the government to totally ban Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations and declare the industry a national security threat.

By Charles Dantes and Maricel V. Cruz

“These POGOs are fronts to Chineseled criminal syndicates, money-laundering, espionage, cyber hacking, wiretapping, and other illegal activities that gave rise to murder, kidnapping for ransom, rape, prostitution, torture and countless other unspeakable barbaric activities," said Surigao del Norte

courtesy of Atty. Ferdinand

DOJ spokesperson Jose Dominic Clavano

Modernize, rehab Magat Dam—PBBM

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday called for the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) to modernize and rehabilitate the Magat Dam.

Speaking at the inauguration of the P65.7 million Cabaruan Solar-Powered

Teves...

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Teves was earlier tagged as the alleged mastermind behind the killing of political rival Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and nine others, for which he is currently facing multiple murder charges.

Justice Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Jose Dominic Clavano said clarified that “the release and

Cops...

From A1 and serving the warrants against the pastor and his co-accused: Jackielyn W. Roy, Cresente Canada, Paulene Canada, Ingrid Canada, and Sylvia Cemañes.

“We are living here peacefully. This is our home. We will not allow this,” yelled a guy using a megaphone in a video posted online by ABS-CBN News. An arrest warrant was issued against Quiboloy and his co-accused by the Davao City Regional Trial Court on April 1 over alleged violations of the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploita-

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From A1 Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chairperson of the House committee on dangerous drugs.

"POGO politics has complemented narco politics now. If we continue to be blind and refuse to read the writings on the wall, we are doomed," he added.

At the Upper House, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III and Senator Imee Marcos joined calls for the government to prohibit POGOs immediately.

"Let us simplify and stop beating around the bush because nothing will happen... Let us not allow it—both legal and illegal (POGO operations)," Pimentel said in an interview with dwIZ.

Senator Imee Marcos sought the suspension of POGOs as she broached the possibility of seeking assistance from China, which has banned the industry for its citizens.

“I think we need to suspend operations right now. Maybe suspend first and then study the system and come clean on what is allowed and what is not,” she said yesterday in an interview with radio dzBB.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, chair of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, has been leading inquiries on a POGO hub raided by authorities in Bamban, Tarlac, last March.

Hontiveros and Senator Sherwin Gatchalian earlier urged the National

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progressive leadership across all government levels.

He noted this is similar to singing the Senate, school and university hymns to remind Filipinos about unity.

For his part, Sen. Francis Tolentino said this is reminiscent of Martial Law.

The lawmaker also wants to know if the singing of this hymn would be required of the executive branch only or all separate branches of the government, including the legislature and judiciary.

Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said on Monday that an executive order enjoining all agencies of government and educational institutions to sing the Bagong Pilipinas Hymn and recite the new pledge during flag ceremonies is not sufficient, citing the need for a law.

subsequent re-areest of the former congressman from prison to the Polícia Nacional of Timor Leste is part of the country’s process.”

Clavano said the DOJ “was able to submit all requirements ahead of time and in a manner fully compliant with Timor Leste’s law.”

“Thus, the statements of Atty.

Topacio are misleading, highly irresponsible and an insult to both countries. He ought to know that while he owes fealty to his client, he

tion and Discrimination Act.

A Pasig City Court likewise issued an arrest warrant against Quiboloy and the five others over alleged violation of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.

Police Regional Office 11 spokesperson Maj. Catherine Dela Rey said the arrest warrants were served at around 4 in the morning even if Quiboloy and his co-accused were not found in the area.

“The PNP served three warrants of arrest against Quiboloy and five others issued by RTC of Davao for acts of child abuse, other sexual abuse and the warrants issued by the Pasig court for violation of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act,” Dela Rey said.

“There is no indication so far that

Security Council to recommend banning POGOs to the President as well as to declare it a national security threat.

Barbers, for his part, said whatever benefits are gained from allowing POGOs to continue, these are nothing compared to the social costs of the industry.

“These POGOs that are banned in mainland China only brought more crimes and shame to our country. The social costs keep mounting and no amount of taxes or perceived jobs can outweigh them," he said.

Gatchalian, who said he regretted supporting POGO operations that began under former President Rodrigo Duterte in 2017, said he now advocates for a total ban due to the rise in crimes associated with online gaming.

The senator said the unlimited issuance of franchises by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) opened the gates for illegal POGOs.

In a television interview, Gatchalian said PAGCOR cannot evade accountability on the widespread illegal POGO operations in the country.

PAGCOR chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco over the weekend said alien hacking and scam syndicates (AHaSS), and not licensed POGOs, pose a real threat to national security.

He said legitimate internet gaming licensees or IGLs generate funds for the government, contributing more than P5 billion to PAGCOR’s gross revenues in 2023.

"I believe a law is needed in order to authorize that," he said.

He proposed that the Executive Branch should submit a bill containing those ideas (to sing a new song and recite a new pledge) to amend the existing law(s) governing the National Anthem, Pledge, and Flag Raising ceremonies. Since this involves the way of thinking of the people, Pimentel insisted that such a mandate must emanate from the people’s chosen representatives – their legislators.

He also noted that the Memorandum Circular involves State Universities and Colleges (SUCs).

Irrigation Project (SPIP) in Quirino, Isabela, President Marcos highlighted the need for updates and suggested incorporating solar technology.

“We’re talking with Administrator Guillen. We’re saying, let’s go back and check the Magat Dam again and see if it’s still possible. Looks like there’s still something needed. Proba-

remains an officer of the court and must act accordingly to maintain its majesty and integrity,” Clavano said.

“The Department is confident that the extradition proceedings will be successful. In addition, the former congressman may also still be deported depending on the direction taken by the Timor Leste government in coordination with the Philippines."

“His release and subsequent rearrest should not be taken as hindrance

Pastor Quiboloy has already left the country because there is no confirmation yet from the Bureau of Immigration. The mere fact that they are simultaneously implementing warrants of arrest is an indication that we believe that he is still here in the country,” Fajardo added.

Quiboloy also has a standing warrant of arrest from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for alleged frauds in the United States.

Quiboloy, a self-proclaimed "Son of God" and ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte, was charged by the US Justice Department in 2021 with sex-trafficking of girls and women aged 12 to 25 to work as personal assistants or "pastorals" who were

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From A1 easier using electricity from the sun. Free electricity from the sun so we can provide free irrigation water,” Mr. Marcos said in his inauguration speech.

"Our savings here are really huge because aside from having free electricity source, we placed our solar panels directly on top of the irrigation canal, so it won't reduce the land area planted by our farmers," he added.

Constructed by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) under the Magat River Integrated Irrigation System (MARIIS), the P65.77-million project features 1,056 solar panels installed above irrigation canals. It generates 739,200 watts to power two submersible pumps, reducing reliance on electric or fuelpowered pumps.

Marcos also announced the ongoing construction of 152 additional solar-powered pump irrigation projects, with 118 more planned by the government.

Last year, the Chief Executive said that 82 solar-powered pump irrigation projects had been completed, pledging to raise the count in the upcoming years.

Meanwhile, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday distributed 17 solar pumps that would help hundreds of farmers irrigate their farms in Isabela, one of the country’s major rice- and cornproducing provinces.

He made the distribution before he, along with officials of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) and Isabela local government officials led by Gov. Rodito Albano, accompanied President Marcos in the inauguration of a big solar pump project in the same area.

Romualdez said irrigation is a major component of producing rice, corn and other agricultural products not only in Isabela, but in other parts of the country as well.

“We have to help our farmers with irrigation and other farm inputs like fertilizer and seeds so they can increase their produce. They should

Chiz...

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"The students therein are not even government employees. They all observe the established flag ceremony under existing law," also said the senator. Bagong Pilipinas is the governance brand of the Marcos administration. It aims to achieve deep transformation in society and emphasizes the government’s commitment to undertake policy reforms.

bly needs rehabilitation. Let’s improve it,” President Marcos said.

“Let’s also put this kind of solar panel if it suits so we can modernize all of our facilities.,” he pointed out.

Built in 1975, the Magat Dam irrigates 85,000 hectares in the Cagayan Valley and generates 540 megawatts of hydroelectric power. However, it faces

to the process but simply a part of it. We appreciate the steps currently being undertaken by the Timor Leste government to remove him from their territory and we eagerly anticipate his return to the Philippines so he can face the multiple murder charges,” Clavano added.

Topacio earlier in the day said that with his client released, “Teves' imprisonment was declared illegal.”

“In other words, our government 'screwed up,'” Teves’ lawyer said.

allegedly required to have sex with him.

Quiboloy earlier said he wanted a written guarantee from the government that "there will be no American interference and no extraordinary rendition" in the case if he surrenders to face charges in the Philippines.

"Unless you give me the guarantee I'm looking for, you won't see me. Go ahead and hunt me down," Quiboloy said in a voice clip posted on the YouTube channel of his church's television network Sonshine Media.

"I'd rather die at the hands of the Filipinos, for my blood to spill here in my country, than to die at the hands of the American authorities who are overseas, in their country,” he said.

aim to double it,” he said.

In the case of rice and corn farmers who rely on rainwater for irrigation, Romualdez said solar pumps should enable them to plant an extra crop.

“This means that they can have at least two crops a year. That’s double their harvest if they plant their crop only during the rainy days, which is really the case in farming areas that do not have irrigation,” he added.

The solar pumps were part of NIA's project meant to expand the irrigated areas in the country pursuant to President Marcos’ vision to boost agricultural production, particularly rice.

Romualdez pointed out that if farmers could double their produce with solar pumps, that would accelerate the fulfillment of the goal of the President for the country to attain food self-sufficiency and security.

“That would also ease rice and food inflation, resulting in lower prices for the staple and other agricultural products for the benefit of all Filipinos,” he stressed.

The Speaker said he would propose more funding for solarpowered irrigation pumps in unirrigated farming communities when the House considers the annual national budget.

“That’s the only way we can bring irrigation to these areas,” he said.

According to NIA officials, the Cabaruan solar-powered pump irrigation project “was conceived as a response to the escalating challenges of water scarcity, energy costs and the need for environmental conservation.”

The project consists of a pumping station, 1,056 solar panels that can produce 739,000 watts of electricity, two units of submersible pumps with an output of 2,800 gallons per minute.

The project can irrigate 350 hectares of agricultural land. It will reduce the production cost of 237 farmers, who have been dependent on gasoline or diesel-run water pumps to irrigate their farms. NIA has completed 17 such projects costing P180.2 million in several towns in Isabela, Quirino and Cagayan.

its own building inside Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Escudero noted that he arrived at this decision following a recommendation from Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, chairperson of the Committee on Accounts

The Senate President said they still need to study and review a justifiable amount to be incurred in the completion of the building, checking if the expenses could still be lowered.

Aside from the whopping amount involved in the construction, Escudero revealed receiving complaints on the new Senate offices that are smaller than their current offices. They also mentioned the very small parking space.

challenges from siltation, sedimentation, illegal logging, and fish caging.

President Marcos praised his father’s decision to build the dam, calling it crucial for agricultural development in the region.

He also urged NIA to explore power generation potential in other irrigation assets to reduce farmers’ costs.

Radio man’s mauling by drivers hit

By Charles Dantes

THE Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) denounced the assault on a journalist by alleged members of the transport group Manibela during a transport strike on Monday. Reports said DZRH reporter Val Gonzales was punched twice while covering the strike on East Avenue, causing significant traffic disruptions. PTFoMS Executive Director Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez criticized the attack, saying that it damaged Manibela’s public image and support.

“Let’s condemn this violence against a media member, our comrade Val Gonzales, who’s just doing his job reporting on what’s happening in our country,” Gutierrez said. He has since coordinated with Quezon City police to summon Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena, affirming the task force’s readiness to support Gonzales who plans to sue the transport group.

“We assure Val Gonzales that the PTFoMS fully supports his decision to take legal action against those involved in the attack,” Gutierrez said. He emphasized that such attacks and accusations against the media as “biased” or “paid off” by the group will not gain public sympathy.

Fuel prices lowered anew

By Alena Mae S. Flores

OIL firms implemented a price rollback of as much as P1.30 per liter effective 6am Tuesday to reflect the movement of prices in the world market.

The oil firms cut the price of kerosene by P1.30 per liter, diesel by P1.20 per liter and gasoline by P0.60 per liter following the recent decision of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies to extend the production cut.

"Petron will implement the following price rollbacks effective 6 a.m. on June 11: P0.60 per liter for gasoline; P1.20 per liter for diesel and P1.30 per liter for kerosene. These reflect movements in the international oil market," the country's biggest oil company said.

Petro Gazz, PTT Philippines, Chevron Philippines, Cleanfuel and Seaoil Philippines also issued separate advisories of the rollback.

"Oil prices remain under pressure this week despite OPEC+ agreed to extend their voluntary production cuts of 2.2 million barrels per day (MMBD) till end of this year. This decision comes in response to growing concerns over weakening demand growth, high interest rates and increased production from the US," Department of Energy director for the oil industry management bureau Rodela Romero said last week.

On June 4, the oil companies implemented a mixed adjustment on the price of petroleum products.

The oil firms rolled back the price of gasoline by P0.90 per liter but increased the price of diesel and kerosene by P0.60 per liter and P0.80 per liter, respectively.

Year-to-date total adjustment of gasoline and diesel stand at net increase of P6.65 per liter and P5.45 per liter, respectively. Kerosene, on the other hand, has a net decrease of P0.25 per liter.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Comelec: Orig photos of candidates in ‘25 polls

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) said it is studying the possibility of requiring candidates in next year’s elections to submit current photos to the poll body to be used for their campaign materials, saying the “unofficial” photos could be considered illegal campaign materials.

Comelec chairman George Garcia said the proposed rule is part of the Comelec’s campaign to curb misrepresentation during polls.

“The commission may require candidates to submit at least 10 current photos that were taken in the past six months for their campaign streamers, posters and social media posts,” Garcia said in a radio interview.

The poll chief said that should the proposed policy be approved, candidates could be penalized for using photos other than those they submitted, and their campaign materials considered as illegal and tantamount for disqualification.

More than 100K jobs in Independence Day fair

OVER 100,000 local and overseas employment opportunities are up for grabs in the ‘Araw ng Kalayaan’ job fairs in 43 sites nationwide, in celebration of the 126th anniversary of the Philippine Independence on June 12, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said.

The department is inviting job seekers to visit the nearest job fair site in their area and take advantage of the 106,298 local vacancies and 5,165 overseas vacancies offered by more than 1,000 employers.

The top vacancies are production worker/operator; customer service representative; cashier, bagger, sales clerk; laborer, carpenter, painter; and service crew, cook, waiter and server.

In a statement, the DOLE said figures for vacancies and participating employers are expected to increase in the coming days. Vito Barcelo

Agents seize parcel with drugs worth P13.4M

OPERATIVES from the Bureau of Customs and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) intercepted a parcel containing illegal drugs worth more than P13.4 million at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City.

The parcel, declared as canned food and fruits, arrived from Denmark and was consigned to an individual in Taguig City.

In a brief statement, the agency said it conducted a test and the parcel was found to contain 5,003 pieces of Ecstasy tablets and 998 grams of Ketamine.

The bureau will file criminal charges 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).

Bill seeks smartphone ban in class

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

CITING findings from the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) revealing that 80 percent of 15-year-old students are distracted by smartphone use during class, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has filed a measure to ban electronic gadgets during school hours.

Gatchalian announced in a news release Monday that he has filed Senate Bill No. 2706 or the ‘Electronic GadgetFree Schools Act,’ which mandates the Department of Education (DepEd) to formulate policies on when students are allowed to use mobile devices during class hours.

The guidelines shall apply to learners from kindergarten to senior high school in both public and private basic education institutions. Teachers are likewise prohibited from using mobile devices and electronic gadgets during class hours, according to the senator. While mobile devices and electronic

gadgets can be compelling tools to enhance learning and teaching, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education pointed out how they can cause distractions that could adversely impact learning, especially among young learners.

“Aside from decrease in learners’ academic performance, access to such devices seems likely to mediate involvement in cyberbullying that is why the use of mobile devices and other electronic gadgets must be restricted, especially during class hours,” Gatchalian stated.

The PISA results underscore a troubling correlation between smartphone

LTO deploys E-Patrol Services for processing of driver’s license

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Monday deployed its E-Patrol Services at the Rizal Park in Manila for a two-day processing of the driver’s license and other services in celebration of the country’s 126th In -

dependence Day on June 12.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said the deployment of E-Patrol Services runs from June 10 to June 11 in support of the commitment of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to bring government services closer to the people under Bagong Pilipinas.

“This is also in line with the instruction of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista to ensure that all the services under the department are fast and comfortable,” he said.

The E-Patrol Services shall also accommodate the processing of student permits and shall receive complaints

through its public assistance complaints desk. “We will also assist our clients regarding their Land Transportation Management System portal concerns, like changing of password and retrieval of accounts,” Mendoza cited.

distractions and significant drops in academic performance: a decrease of 9.3 points in mathematics, 12.2 points in science, and a stark 15.04 points in reading.

The study also highlights that distractions caused by peers’ smartphone use are equally detrimental. The proposed legislation, however, does recognize essential exceptions.

Mobile devices and electronic gadgets can be used for educational purposes like classroom presentations and activities, health-related needs for students with specific conditions, and in managing emergencies or perceived threats.

Villar cites role of women to drive PH growth

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Cynthia Villar emphasized the vital role of women in driving the Philippines’ economic growth by embracing technological advancements.

Speaking at the recent 18th Annual General Assembly of the Philippine Federation of Local Councils of Women (PFLCW), Villar highlighted the urgency of bridging the gender digital divide to empower women as leaders, innovators, and decision-makers in the burgeoning digital economy.

Villar said navigating the digital age presents both challenges and opportunities and it is crucial for women to leverage technology to stay ahead and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress. Villar underscored that the digital landscape offers a unique platform for women to transform into key players in the economy, provided they are equipped with the necessary skills and opportunities. But the digital divide between genders presents a significant obstacle, she said.

Group vows Verde Island Passage protection

THE Verde Island Passage Technical Working Group (VIP TWG), led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), has initiated collaboration efforts to safeguard the Verde Island Passage, one of the world’s most biodiverse marine areas.

The Aboitiz Group, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC), and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) are key partners in this initiative, underscoring their commitment to environmental sustainability and marine biodiversity.

The TWG also includes the Department of Energy (DOE) as a key partner in this endeavor and shared a vision of energy transition plans for the country.

The Verde Island Passage, situated in the Coral Triangle, is “the center of the center” of marine biodiversity. The VIP TWG aims to implement strategies for its long-

term protection, promoting sustainable practices and reducing human impact.

Since 2018, five provinces have shared a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to protect this region. The current focus is to translate this MOU into concrete actions, including establishing the plans for the VIP marine station for research and monitoring, collaboration on conservation and management programs with local communities. Its implementation shall be aligned with the 9 other planned marine stations of DENR across different parts of the country.

A Protected Area Suitability Assessment is ongoing to determine whether the Verde Island Passage should be designated a Marine Protected Area. The recent VIP TWG meeting aimed to inventory current initiatives, find areas of convergence, and plan the next steps to operationalize the MOU.

LAND DISTRIBUTION ISSUE. Members of agrarian and social justice organizations stage a protest in front of the headquarters of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in Quezon City on June 10, the 36th anniversary of the government’s Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program. They are calling upon the DAR to address critical issues affecting land distribution and ownership. Jimmy A Domingo

MISS MANILA BETS. Twenty-four candidates of Miss Manila 2024 are introduced to the media during a press presentation in a hotel in Binondo, Manila on Monday. The coronation night will be on June 22 at the Metropolitan Theater and will be hosted by 2018 Miss Universe Catriona Gray along with Gabby Garcia and Miss Universe 2019 Miss Universe Rbonney Gabriel. Danny Pata

‘No garbage crisis in C. Luzon’

BASES Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA)

chairman Delfin Lorenzana has allayed fears of a looming garbage crisis in Central Luzon, citing the presence of three operational facilities as potential alternatives once the contract for the operations of the Kalangitan sanitary landfill in Capas, Tarlac expired.

In an interview with Net25, Lorenzana said concerns of a possible garbage crisis were unfounded, and assured local government units (LGUs) of the availability of alternative waste management facilities in Pampanga with more than enough capacity to address their waste disposal requirements.

Trouble-hit ship arrives safely in P. Princesa

ALL 630 passengers of the roll onroll off vessel MV Saint Francis Xavier have safely arrived in Puerto Princesa on Monday, June 10, following a delay in their journey due to technical issues, the ship’s operator 2GO Travel announced.

The vessel on Saturday encountered technical problems during its trip from Manila to Puerto Princesa, with a stopover in Coron.

The problem was aggravated by low tide, making it necessary to moor in Coron. Maritime authorities, including the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), swiftly assessed and cleared the vessel for continued travel once the issues were resolved, the operator said. Throughout the delay, 2GO Travel ensured passenger comfort and safety. Those who disembarked in Coron were provided with meals and had several options to continue their journey. They could either revalidate their tickets, seek refunds, or arrange alternative travel to Puerto Princesa.

The ship resumed its course and arrived at Puerto Princesa’s port at 12:24 AM on June 10, much to the relief of the onboard passengers. The ship was scheduled to depart for Coron and Manila at 5:30 p.m. on June 10, with an estimated arrival in Coron at 5:30 a.m. on June 11.

“Iyong mga LGUs na gumagamit sa Kalangitan (landfill), wag po kayo mag-alala, meron po kayong matatapunan. Tatlo ‘yan…Meron po tayong tatlong buwan at kalahati para ayusin ang paglilipat ng pagtatapunan from Kalangitan to these three facilities (There is no cause for concern among

the LGUs using the Kalangitan landfill. We have three alternatives. We have three months and a half to arrange the transition from Kalangitan to the three facilities),” Lorenzana said.

The three alternative facilities consisted of the sanitary landfill operated by Eco Protect Management Corp., with a total capacity of 2,500 metric tons (MT) per day; the sanitary landfill of Florida Blanca Enviro Park Project Corp., with a capacity of 3,500 MT per day; and the materials recovery facility recently opened by Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc., with a capacity of 5,000 MT per day.

“Sa sumatotal ay 11,000 MT na ‘yong capacity ng tatlong landfill sa Central

Luzon, mostly in Pampanga. Ngayon ang Metro Clark, ang average capacity ay 2,500 MT. So kayang tugunan ng tatlong existing facilities ‘yong mga LGUs na nakapaligid sa Clark (In totality, the capacity is already 11,000 MT for these three facilities in Central Luzon, mostly in Pampanga. Metro Clark has an average capacity of 2,500 MT. So these three facilities are enough to service the LGUs surrounding Clark,) Lorenzana said.

He also clarified that there was no provision in the contract between Clark Development Corp. (CDC) and Metro Clark Waste Management Corp. (MCWMC) for a renewal or extension.

Farmers hit by Kanlaon eruptions get gov’t aid

By Caloy Lozada

FARMERS in the towns of La Castellana, Moises Padilla, and La Carlota, as well as in Bago City affected by the Kanlaon volcano eruptions have received assistance from the Negros Occidental provincial government. The Provincial Veterinary Office

(PVO) reported that the eruptions caused extensive ash fall and lahar flows, severely impacting livestock and poultry in the affected areas. The volcanic debris led to respiratory issues and other health concerns among the animals, adding to the challenges faced by the local farmers and their families.

Davao de Oro

By Joel Zurbano

MAKATI Mayor Abigail Binay on Wednesday turned over of P1million in financial assistance to Davao de Oro province which was heavily damaged by continuous rains spawned by the shear line early this year.

Davao de Oro provincial treasurer Grace Quintana received the check on behalf of her province in simple ceremony held at the Makati City Hall.

Mayor Binay said apart from Davao de Oro, the municipalities of Kapalong in Davao del Norte and Lupon and Caraga in Davao Oriental which suffered agricultural setbacks due to the shear line and tropical cyclone Kabayan late last year would also receive financial assistance from the city government.

The mayor expressed hopes that the cash aid would help bring relief to the affected communities.

“We know they need all the help they can get to

recover from the damage caused by severe weather events. Through financial support, we hope to alleviate some of the burdens of fellow local government units in recovery and rehabilitation,” Binay said.

Aside from the cash assistance, the mayor said Makati was also willing to accommodate local government units (LGUs) that want to engage in knowledge exchange and benchmarking activities with the city government. “We are ready to share our sound practices in various aspects of governance, including disaster risk reduction and management, to help other localities bounce back better and become more climate-resilient," she said.

The city government has allocated a total of P2.25 million for the latest batch of financial aid recipients. The municipalities of Kapalong in Davao del Norte and Caraga in Davao Oriental are set to receive P500,000 each, while the town of Lupon, Davao Oriental will receive P250,000.

PVO chief Dr. Placeda Lemana supervised the distribution of veterinary medicines to the farmers.

“We are working diligently to provide relief and support to our affected farmers. Our team is on the ground, offering medical supplies and technical support to ensure the health and wellbeing of their livestock,” Lemana said.

IN BRIEF

Iloilo to join June 12

Manila grand parade

THE Iloilo provincial government will participate in the 125th Independence Day grand parade Manila this Wednesday, June 12, on the invitation of Malacañang.

This gives the province an opportunity to highlight its historic contributions and vibrant culture in a grand parade of local government floats at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park.

The parade rolls out at 8 a.m.

Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor, Jr. confirmed that Iloilo’s float will prominently feature the “Cry of Santa Barbara” to commemorate the first time the Philippine flag was raised outside Luzon on November 17, 1898. This historic moment is a significant part of Iloilo’s rich heritage.

The province’s float will also spotlight the beautiful dance drama from the Kahilwayan Festival, celebrating freedom and Iloilo’s rich cultural history.

The float will pay tribute to General Martin Delgado, a notable hero who led the Ilonggo revolutionaries in their fight against Spanish colonizers. Caloy Lozada

65 PH schools make it 2024 WURI rankings

MORE Philippine schools have joined this year’s list of “most innovative universities” worldwide, according to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

In a statement, CHED said from 44 last year, 65 Philippine High Education Institutions (HEIs) were among the top 300 most innovative universities in the world based on the 2024 (World University Ranking for Innovation (WURI) rankings CHED said the addition of 21 more Philippine HEIs in the list highlighted their strengthened innovative education and positive impact to society. International rankings are important because it makes Philippine HEIs benchmark with other institutions across the world and identify improvements needed in teaching, research, public service and the kind of graduates they need to produce, CHED said.

More importantly, it requires them to do this every year as they track their improvement on a year-to-year basis, it added.

“The continuing annual increase in the number of Philippines HEIs that are subjecting themselves to international assessment and ranking is indeed outstanding,” CHED Secretary Prospero de Vera III said.

The fact that these HEIS are joining the list of the top universities not just in the WURI rankings, but also in the other international ranking bodies, shows the globalized outlook and competitiveness of our public and private universities,” De Vera said. .

Motorboats endangering passengers face sanctions

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Station Rizal has launched a probe on two passenger motor bancas racing against each other while ferrying passengers at the Laguna Lake off Binangonan town in Rizal.

The motorboats were detained until their skippers have completed the required safety seminar on top of penalties they would likely suffer.

The PCG reminded the motorboat operators, owners and crew leaders on the vital role they play in providing safe journeys for the passengers. Also, any kind of reckless action will not be tolerated according to the PCG. Vince Lopez

OPINION

Senate evenly divided on divorce

THE latest non-commissioned poll sur-

vey of the Social Weather Stations showing 50 percent of adult Filipinos are in favor of the bill on Absolute Divorce and 31 percent are against is some sort revealing, Santa Banana. It was interesting because in a column of SWS manager Mahar Mangahas in another newspaper, he identified who comprised the majority of those in favor, and who were not in favor into separated couples and those who are living-in.

While I respect the analysis of Mangahas and the findings of SWS using scientific methods of survey, I would like to add the Catholic Church has been losing many of its faithful because of Protestantism and the advent of “born-again” Christians, and other religious sects like Iglesia ni Cristo.

It’s for these reasons why majority of Filipinos appear to be in favor of the Absolute Divorce bill which the House of Representatives just passed on third and final reading .

It’s now up to the Senate to pass the Absolute Divorce bill or not. Santa Banana, it appears the Senate is evenly divided on whether or not the bill would be enacted by it.

The SWS survey did not take into account other factors why the majority of the 50 percent of adults favor absolute divorce and only 31 percent are against.

At the outset, I am against absolute divorce because it is against my belief as a Catholic since divorce will mean the destruction of the family, the foundation of any society.

Santa Banana, just take a look at the hedonistic society of the United States where divorce has affected families.

I am also against divorce because the result is broken families.

I am taking my marriage of 69 years (yes, that long) as an example.

Marriage is not for those who are just passionately in love with each other.

Marriage is something that couples who think they are in love must consider seriously before doing so.

As for me, I married my wife because I believed we were both educated and mature enough to know what we were getting into.

Aside from the fact that I love my wife, we have the same faith and trust in each other and, most importantly, we have complete faith and trust in God.

As I said, we were educated enough to know marriage is not always a bed of roses.

In marriage, those who get married must know and realize when a crisis happens in a marriage, the couple must understand that faith and trust in God are paramount.

In our case, there had been many financial difficulties.

But, somehow, with our faith and trust in each other and, most importantly, with our faith and trust in God we would surmount the crisis.

Believe you me, miracles do happen in every marriage.

I believe this is where the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines must tell the faithful of the disadvantages of absolute divorce on society and the country in general.

More than anything else the Catholic Church should conduct parish sessions where the young can learn what a marriage means and what they are getting into when they marry.

The Catholic Church is partly to blame because the CBCP has failed in its mission to educate couples about marriage

I hate to say this but the Catholic Church is partly to blame because the CBCP has failed in its mission to educate couples about marriage.

Most importantly, I repeat those who are getting married must know and realize what they are getting into.

For this reason, following many Filipino adults who are in favor of absolute divorce and only 31 percent are against it, it’s no argument in favor of absolute divorce.

I don’t like to predict how the Senate will act on the bill since some of them have expressed their belief they are in favor of divorce.

Now, it’s up to the Senate. I have already expressed myself, Santa Banana!

PAGCOR’s Al Tengco: ‘Executive of the Year’

By Melandrew T. Velasco

IN THE realm of global gaming, a nomination for the “Executive of the Year Award” is enough for a fantastic achievement in itself. These remarks came from one of the organizers of a prestigious award-giving event held on June 4 at Conrad HotelManila. The organizers named the Philippines’ own PAGCOR Chairman-CEO Alejandro H. Tengco as the global gaming industry’s “Executive of the Year” during that epochal awards night. Tengco bested top honchos of MGM, Aristocrat Gaming, Jade Entertainment, Sands and Wynn Resorts Macau.

Another Philippine company, Bloomberry Resorts Corporation controlled by billionaire Enrique K. Razon Jr., won the award as “Casino Operator of the Year,” an accolade it shared with Galaxy Entertainment, a Hong Kong-based operator of hotels and casinos.

Mariya Savova, event manager for the Global Gaming Awards -- a project of the publication “Gambling Insider” -- said of the host: “The Philippines is now the most dynamic and innovative gaming market in Asia with developments in both the land-based and online verticals, so it certainly was a great pleasure to have the Global Gaming Awards AsiaPacific here in Manila.” For this noteworthy feat, Tengco brought honor and pride to the country. My congratulations.

More than a tribute to PAGCOR, the award “validated the efforts raised during the past two years (and) proved we are leading the agency in the right direction,” Tengco said during dinner at Ti-

ger’s Kitchen in the sprawling Newport City.

I had the honor and privilege to meet Newport’s Kevin Tan during the Tengcohosted dinner.

I will discuss Tan’s plans and accomplishments as a young, game-changing businessman in another opinion piece.

Tengco, a lawyer and risk-taker, said the award “inspires me to work harder so our plans and aspirations for PAGCOR may become a reality during my tenure as chairman and CEO.”

There’s also PAGCOR’s mandate to transform itself into a purely regulator role once its privatization takes full effect by 2025

Under Tengco’s watch, PAGCOR aims at becoming the “gold standard” of the Asian gaming industry.

In the first quarter of 2024, PAGCOR chalked up a total income of P25.24 billion, a 42.57 percent surge from figures in the same period last year.

The three-month earnings put the state gaming firm on track to reach the P100 -billion annual income for the year, which would be a first in the 40-year history of the state gaming firm.

“We are happy to announce PAGCOR is able to sustain our growth trajectory in the first quarter of 2024 and this should

The hideous head of plastics pollution

THE Kenya-based United Nations Environment Program or UNEP is raising the alarm on the severity of the global plastics crisis.

Environmentalists warn plastics, which include materials like carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, chlorine and sulfur, are polluting our planet and choking our ocean, harming human health, and damaging ecosystems vital to our livelihoods.

For instance, UNEP is highlighting the networks of everyday people, coastal workers, and communities who are spearheading solutions to beat plastics pollution.

A plastic substance is any of numerous organic synthetic or processed materials mostly thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers of high molecular weight that can be made into objects, films, or filaments.

UNEP says 12 million metric tons of plastic find their way into the ocean every single year; 9.5 million tons of this enter the ocean from the land with 1.75 tons being chucked into the sea directly

from the fishing and shipping industry. Another ghastly sight is the roughly 51 trillion microscopic pieces of plastic, weighing 269,000 tons. The Philippines, on the ball regarding this type of pollution, passed in 2023 a critical national law that advances this legal framework to combat plastics pollution much further.

Authorities are aware the plastics waste crisis in this nation of 114 million people has reached a critical point, with challenges and implications

Titled the “Extended Producer Responsibility” law, the legislation requires mandatory EPR for businesses with assets worth over ₱100 million.

Authorities are aware the plastics waste crisis in this nation of 114 million people has reached a critical point, with challenges and implications. These include:

IN THE bewildering saga unfolding in Porac, Pampanga, the real villain may not be the POGO company, Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Corporation, but rather the Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission itself.

This situation, rife with legal blunders and Constitutional violations, demands a harsh critique of the PAOCC’s actions.

On June 4, 2024, the Philippine National Police, Special Action Force, and the PAOCC raided Lucky South 99’s compound under a search warrant issued by Judge Maria Belinda Rama of Malolos Regional Trial Court Branch 14.

This search warrant was later withdrawn due to glaring irregularities, like failure to specify crucial details. Despite this, the PAOCC had executed the raid, detaining foreign nationals allegedly involved in illegal activities.

The Constitutional implications here are severe.

Article III, Section 2 of the Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures.

This principle is not merely academic; it mandates that evidence obtained from an illegal search is inadmissible in court.

The invalidation of the initial search warrant unequivocally renders the June 4 raid illegal, and thus, any evidence seized during this operation should be excluded from legal proceedings against Lucky South 99.

Recognizing their procedural catastrophe, the PAOCC attempted damage control by obtaining a second search warrant from a court in San Fernando, Pampanga, executed on June 7, 2024.

However, the PAOCC had held the premises for three days.

This raises serious questions about the integrity of any evidence collected during this period.

A subsequent search warrant cannot retroactively legitimize an initial illegal search.

help position us into achieving another record-breaking year,” Tengco said. Gaming operations accounted for the bulk of revenues with P22.29 billion. Of this amount, 43.46 percent or P9.69 billion came from the e-Games sector (e-Bingo, e-Games and Bingo grantees) while licensed casinos (integrated resorts) brought in P8.04 billion (36.06 ercent).

But revenues from PAGCOR-run casinos under the Casino Filipino brand continued to slide, earning P3.7 billion, down from the 20.68 percent share it contributed to PAGCOR’s revenues in 2023.

Offshore gaming operations contributed P860.89 million or 3.86 percent of the total gaming income.

“As we said earlier, the e-games sector will be our major source of gaming revenues this year and in the next few

Staggering Volumes: The Philippines produces an estimated 2.7 million tons of plastics waste annually. A significant portion ends up in landfills and different bodies of water.

Marine Impact: About 20 percent of this plastics waste find their way into the ocean, devastating marine ecosystems and endangering marine life.

Health Hazards: The improper disposal of plastics poses health risks to communities, as toxic chemicals filtrate into the soil and water.

Urban Eyesore: Plastics pollution has transformed once-beautiful landscapes into unsightly and polluted areas, impacting tourism and quality of life.

We are encouraged the government is on tiptoe in addressing plastics pollution which continues to affect communities, including but not limited to people in vulnerable areas, like highly urbanized cities and coastal towns, who bear most of the pressure.

Fishing communities face declining catches due to plastics contamination in waters and coastal areas.

Plastics pollution contributes to health issues, particularly among marginalized communities living near polluted areas. And tourism, a vital sector for the Philippines, suffers as pristine beaches are marred by plastic debris.

From botched warrants to illegal detentions

This tactic only exacerbates the PAOCC’s procedural incompetence and disregard for legal norms. The PAOCC’s actions constitute a gross abuse of power and a flagrant violation of Constitutional rights. Their initial raid was based on a defective warrant, and their subsequent attempts to validate their actions with an additional warrant amount to a transparent cover-up of their misconduct.

This fiasco underscores the critical importance of procedural propriety and the dire consequences of abusing power

This sequence of events highlights not just procedural incompetence but also a disturbing willingness to sidestep legal norms. The implications of this debacle are profound.

By tainting the evidence with their illegal search, the PAOCC has jeopardized any potential legal proceedings against Lucky South 99. This legal trainwreck underscores a systemic issue within Philippine law enforcement – a cavalier attitude toward Constitutional protections and due process.

Defense of Lucky South 99

1. Exclusionary Rule: Under Article III, Section 3(2) of the Constitution, evidence obtained from an illegal search is inadmissible in any proceeding. The invalidation of the initial search warrant mandates the exclusion of any

years as innovation and technological integration allows the sector to offer more excitement and convenience to gamers,” Tengco said. He said, the gaming agency’s robust earnings bode well for the government’s various socio-civic programs including funding for the Universal Healthcare Program which provides health insurance to millions of poor Filipinos through PhilHealth. Charity organizations and even local government units also depend on the gaming agency for much-needed donations. PAGCOR has ample provisions for these needs, Tengco said.

Of the agency’s nearly P19 billion net income in the first quarter, P15.56 billion will go to its “Contributions to NationBuilding.” This includes the 5 percent franchise

evidence seized during the June 4 raid.

2. Fruit of the Poisonous Tree Doctrine: This legal principle asserts that any subsequent evidence derived from the initial illegal search is also tainted and inadmissible in court.

This would include any evidence found as a result of the June 7 search warrant, given the three-day unlawful control of the premises by the PAOCC.

3. Violation of Due Process: Article III, Section 1 of the Constitution guarantees that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law. The illegal detention of foreign nationals and the control of the premises without a valid warrant constitute clear due process violations.

4. Illegal Detention: The detention of individuals during the period when the premises were unlawfully held by the PAOCC can be challenged through a petition for habeas corpus under Rule 102 of the Rules of Court.

5. Civil Action for Damages: Lucky South 99 can seek damages under Articles 19, 20, and 32 of the Civil Code for wrongful acts, abuse of rights, and violations of constitutional rights. This includes the reputational harm and business disruption caused by the PAOCC’s actions.

The PAOCC’s handling of the raid on Lucky South 99 is a stark reminder of the need for strict adherence to legal standards and Constitutional safeguards. This fiasco underscores the critical importance of procedural propriety and the dire consequences of abusing power.

The PAOCC’s actions represent a severe breach of public trust and a blatant disregard for the rule of law.

It is imperative this debacle serves as a catalyst for urgent reforms within the PAOCC and other law enforcement agencies to prevent such abuses of power from recurring.

tax; 50 percent government share; shares for LGUs hosting PAGCOR casinos; other socio-civic projects; 5 percent share of the Philippine Sports Commission; funding for the Sports Incentives and Benefits Act; and 1 percent share of the Board of Claims to compensate persons wrongfully convicted. There’s also PAGCOR’s mandate to transform itself into a purely regulator role once its privatization takes full effect by 2025. Being a top-tier manager,Tengco is ready and well prepared to take up the challenges facing the state-gaming agency.

(The author, a writer and publisher of coffee-table books, is president/executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc, a non-government outfit advocating tree planting and watershed protection.)

IN BRIEF

“It’s

US in Gaza ceasefire push with UNSC vote, Mideast tour

“The

welcome and official dinner “later this week”, before a series of bilateral meetings. AFP

Tighter deportation rules take effect

TOKYO – Japanese laws making it easier for the country to deport failed asylum seekers took effect Monday, with campaigners warning that the new system will put lives at risk.

The world’s fourth largest economy has long been criticized for the low number of asylum applications it accepts. Last year refugee status was granted to a record 303 people, mostly from Afghanistan.

Now the government can deport asylum seekers rejected three times, under immigration law changes enacted last year. Previously, those seeking refugee status had been able to stay in the country while they appealed decisions, regardless of the number of attempts made. The revised law is “meant to swiftly deport those without permission to stay, and help reduce long-term detentions”, justice minister Ryuji Koizumi said in May. “Those who need protection will be protected, while those who violate the rules will be dealt with sternly,” he added. AFP

Kim’s sister warns of ‘counteraction’ vs. Seoul’s balloons

SEOUL – North Korea sent hundreds more trash-carrying balloons over the border, Seoul’s military said Monday, after Kim Jong Un’s powerful sister warned of further responses if the South keeps up its “psychological warfare.”

In recent weeks, North Korea has sent hundreds of balloons into the South, carrying trash like cigarette butts and toilet paper, in what it calls retaliation for balloons laden with antiPyongyang propaganda floated northwards by activists in the South, which Seoul legally cannot stop.

The South Korean government this month fully suspended a 2018 tension-reducing military deal and restarted loudspeaker propaganda broadcasts along the border in response to Pyongyang’s balloons, infuriating the North which warned Seoul was creating “a new crisis.” Kim’s sister and key government spokeswoman Kim Yo Jong said in a statement released early Monday South Korea would “suffer a bitter embarrassment of picking up waste paper without rest and it will be its daily work.” AFP

Swiss summit on Ukraine set to thrash out path to peace

GENEVA – Switzerland will stage a conference on Ukraine this weekend, with world leaders set to discuss how to reach an eventual peace process -- although Russia is not taking part.

The gathering comes immediately after the G7 summit in southern Italy, running from Thursday to Saturday, during which the wealthy democracies will also discuss Ukraine in the presence of its president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The G7 will look at ways to use frozen Russian assets to provide fresh aid to Ukraine, which was invaded by Russia in February 2022.

Zelensky will then head to Switzerland, to be joined by G7 and other lead-

ers for the summit. What is billed as the first “Summit on Peace in Ukraine” will take place at the luxury Burgenstock resort on a mountain ridge overlooking Lake Lucerne.

French President Emmanuel Macron, US Vice President Kamala Harris, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida are among those so far confirmed to be attending.

The aim “is to inspire a future peace process and to develop practical elements as well as steps towards such a process”, the Swiss foreign ministry said.

“All states present at the summit should contribute their ideas and vi-

India’s heatwave longest ever, worse to come; Modi sworn in for 3rd term

NEW DELHI – India’s heatwave is the longest ever to hit the country, the government’s top weather expert said Monday as he warned people will face increasingly oppressive temperatures.

Parts of northern India have been gripped by a heatwave since mid-May, with temperatures soaring over 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit).

“This has been the longest spell because it has been experienced for about 24 days in different parts of the country,” the head of India’s Meteorological Department (IMD), Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, said in an interview with the Indian Express daily.

The mercury is expected to fall as the annual monsoon rains move north this month, but Mohapatra cautioned worse will follow.

“Heatwaves will be more frequent, durable and intense, if precautionary or preventive measures are not taken,” he said.

India is the world’s third-biggest emitter of greenhouse gases but has committed to achieve a net zero emissions economy by 2070 -- two decades after most of the industrialized West.

For now, it is overwhelmingly reliant on coal for power generation.

The heat wave report came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi was sworn in for a third term after worsethan-expected election results left him reliant on coalition partners to govern.

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. AFP

sions for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”

Swiss President Viola Amherd, set to hold a press conference on preparations later on Monday, characterized it as a “first step” in a process towards a lasting peace.

Switzerland invited more than 160 delegations, including countries at heads of state and government level, and international organizations.

Bern says more than 80 confirmations have been received so far, mostly from Europe. Organized at Ukraine’s request, the outcome of the conference remains uncertain, even if Switzerland is working hard to strike a potential final declaration. AFP

PALESTINIAN

Territories – The United States stepped up pressure Monday for a Gaza ceasefire with a call for a UN Security Council vote on a truce as it redeployed Washington’s top diplomat to the region scarred by eight months of war.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s regional tour was preceded by further bombardment of Gaza by Israeli forces, with witnesses reporting overnight strikes in the center of the strip and helicopter gunfire on ravaged Gaza City.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meanwhile faced domestic dissent, with war cabinet member Benny Gantz quitting Sunday over the premier’s handling of the war. Washington sought to bring a ceasefire closer by tabling a draft resolution at the United Nations, calling for an “immediate ceasefire with the release of hostages” between Israel and militant group Hamas.

A staunch ally of Israel, the United States has been widely criticized for having blocked several earlier UN draft resolutions calling for a halt to the fighting.

A new push for a deal by President Joe Biden on May 31, separate from the UN, has so far failed to produce tangible results, while further doubts have been cast on a truce by an Israeli special forces raid to free hostages which killed scores of Palestinians on Saturday.

“People were screaming -- young and old, women and men,” said Muhannad Thabet, 35, a resident of the crowded Nuseirat refugee camp area.

“Everyone wanted to flee the place, but the bombing was intense and anyone who moved was at risk of being killed due to the heavy bombardment and gunfire.”

The Israeli military said the extraction team and the four rescued captives came under heavy gun and grenade fire by militants, who killed one police officer, while Israel’s air force launched strikes that reduced nearby buildings to rubble. AFP

CEASEFIRE VOTE. Israeli military armored vehicles roll in an area bordering the Gaza Strip

MODI SWORN IN. In this handout photo taken Sunday and released by the Indian Press Information Bureau Bharatiya Janata Party leader Narendra Modi (right) greets

ELUSIVE PEACE. This photograph taken on June 6, 2024, shows a building of the luxury Burgenstock resort above Lake Lucerne, central Switzerland that will host a Ukraine peace summit on June 15-16, 2024. Switzerland will stage what is being billed as the first Summit on Peace in Ukraine this weekend, with world leaders set to discuss how to get to an eventual peace process -- though Russia is not taking part. AFP

Pacman comeback bout still ‘far away’

TOKYO—Boxing great Manny Pacquiao said Monday that he is in negotiations to make a comeback but cautioned that a potential world title fi ght against Mario Barrios was “far away”.

The 45-year-old multiple world champion from the Philippines quit the sport in 2021 and made a failed tilt at his country’s presidency.

He has signed up to fight a three-round exhibition bout against Japanese mixed martial artist Chihiro Suzuki next month in Saitama, north of Tokyo.

Pacquiao said he was in talks to face the American Barrios for the WBC welterweight world title but said the potential fight was still “far away”.

“We’re still in negotiations and we’re talking about that. The fight has not materialised yet,” Pacquiao, who has hinted at comebacks before, said in Tokyo.

“That negotiation is ongoing. It’s going to be by December -November or December.

“There’s still a lot of things to discuss and talk about.”

Pacquiao in February admitted defeat in his bid to fight at next month’s Paris Olympics when the International Olympic Committee rejected a special request for him to take part.

The IOC has an age limit of 40 for Olympic boxers.

Pacquiao retired weeks after losing to Cuban Yordenis Ugas in Las Vegas in his final professional fight.

He ran for the Philippines presidency but lost the May 2022 election by a huge margin.

He returned to the ring for an exhibition in Seoul in December 2022 against a South Korean YouTuber.

He will fight Suzuki on July 28 in a 68kg boxing match of three rounds at three minutes each, with no judges’ decision.

Pacquiao insisted the bout was “not an exhibition, this is a fight”.

“We are looking for a knock-out for this fight,” he said.

“There’s going to be a lot of action in the ring and of course I’ll do my best to win by knock-out.” AFP

15 Paris-bound Filipino athletes get Cignal, MVPSF boost

By Peter Atencio

FIFTEEN Filipino athletes, as of this count, led by pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena, will be closely followed and supported by Cignal TV and the Manny V. Pangilinan Sports Foundation in thei r journey to and participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The MVPSF will help the Filipino Olympians in the acquisition of equipment and support personnel.

Cignal TV first vice president Sienna Olaso and MVP Sports Foundation chief Jude Turcuato said this as they talked about the roles that their groups will play from behind the scenes in the Philippine team’s quest for glory in the biennial meet.

Olaso said a lean six-man team will be at the Metz’ training camp come up with segments that will be part of a 13-part miniseries chronicling the athletes’ journey.

“They will be there as they prepare and talk, when they’re free to talk about their journey,” said Olaso as she and top Cignal TV exec Gerard Milan discussed Cignal TV’s involvement during a presentation on Monday at the Cignal Customer Experience Center in Mandaluyong.

The participation of the 15 athletes will also be aired on all four platforms of Cignal TV when they finally compete.

Turcuato, on the other hand, said they will at first back up the campaigns of Olympians who have the best chances to win—boxers Carlo Paalam, Eumir Marcial, Aira Villegas, Nesty Petecio and Hergie Bacyadan, along with gymnast Carlos Yulo and pole vaulter Obiena.

MVPSF will provide them with nutritionists, physical therapists and team psychologists.

The number will be expanded when more Filipino athletes get qualification spots in Paris.

PSC Invitational Golf Cup to raise funds for ParisPH Olympians

THE Philippine Sports Commission is set to raise additional funds for Paris Olympics and Paralympic Games-bound athletes by conducting the PSC Invitational Golf Cup at the Canlubang Golf and Country Club on June 14.

“We would like to thank all the sponsors who have committed their support for this event and we ensure these can go a long way for our athletes vying to continue the legacy we built in the Olympics and Paralympic Games,” Chairman Richard Bachmann said.

Several stakeholders confirmed to extend support to this initiative including Sen. Bong Go, Philippine Airlines, and Smart as major sponsors. San Miguel Corporation, Strong Group Athletics, Chooks-to-Go, Sen. Sonny Angara, Uratex Philippines, and Parola Maritime Inc. are also

committed to give support.

Completing the list of sponsors, as of writing, are Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Erika Dy, Cong. Faustino Michael Dy III, Cong. Lord Allan Velasco, Converge, Shakey’s Philippines, Mr. Mariano Araneta, Johnny Air Cargo, TMS Ship Agencies Inc., CEL Logistics Inc., Winford Manila, Peak Sports, Filipino Chinese Amateur Athletic Federation (FCAAF), Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc (FFCCCII), Parikit Manila, BLK, Happy Skin, Cong. Marvin Rillo, Cong. Richard Gomez, and Cong. Dino Tanjuatco. The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) also pledged to give sup-

Imus Sluggers crowned kings of Cavite softball tournament

By Dennis Abrina

IMUS CITY—The Imus AJAA

Sluggers beat Batang GenTri, 9-1, in the championship game to rule the 1st AJAA Invitational Softball Tournament on Sunday at the Imus City Track Oval in Barangay Malgasang 1-G here. The Imus Sluggers scored the win in only one hour and two minutes to be crowned king of Cavite softball in the tournament organized by Mayor Alex ‘Double A’ Advincula. The team of Finals’ Most Valuable Player Ferdinand Liguayan Jr. of Barangay Malagasang 1-G took home the P180,000 cash prize for the champion, while P150,000 and

a trophy went to the 1st runner-up Team GenTri, courtesy of Gov. Jonvic Remulla and GenTri Mayor Luis Jon-Jon Ferrer IV. Mayor Denver Chua’s Team Unlad Cavite City was named 2nd runner-up and took home the P100,000 cash prize. A pot of P75,000 went to the 3rd runner-up. Participating teams Unlad Noveleta, Trece The Martyrs, Bacoor Strikers, Batang Alfonso and Tanza Mariners all got P50,000. Mayor Advincula thanked the participants in the tournament, the goal of which was to boost the game of softball -- a sport popular in Cavite during in the 1970s to the 1980s, represented by the powerhouse Blu Boys’ team.

port to our Olympians and Paralympians.

The project aims to gather more than two million pesos to be equally distributed to the qualified athletes as they start training for the summer games.

As of writing, the country’s Paris Olympic roster stands at 15 with Tokyo Olympic silver medalist Carlo Paalam and Hergie Bacyadan recently claiming each tickets from the qualifying tournament in Thailand, while four para-athletes are formally qualified for the Paralympic Games namely Ernie Gawilan, Angel Otom, Allain Ganapin, and Agustina Bantiloc. The participants are set to be identified in partnership with other sports institutions such as the Philippine Olympic Committee, the national sports associations, and members of the media.

IT’S going to be a special 3-in-1 session of the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum on Tuesday (June 11), with the Philippine boxing team bound for the Paris Olympics leading the guests list at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

Olympians Nesthy Petecio, Aira Villegas, and Hergie Bacyadan join national team coaches Ronald Chavez, Reynaldo Galido, and Don Abnett as they discuss the Filipino boxers’ campaign in the Paris Games alongside Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) secretary general Marcus Manalo.

The session starts at 10:00 a.m. Also gracing the public sports program are sports commissioner Fritz Gaston to discuss the PSC Invitational Friendship Golf Cup this weekend and the men behind the Perlas ng Silangan Basketball League led by founder Christian Ensomo, co-founder Nato Agbayani, and consultant Rudy Aquino.

The Forum is presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Smart/PLDT, MILO, and ArenaPlus, the leading sports entertainment gateway in the country.

The session is livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/PhilippineSportswritersAssociation, and aired on a delayed basis over Radyo Pilipinas 2, and shared on its official Facebook page Radyo Pilipinas 2 sports.

Manny Pacquiao says he is in talks to face the American Barrios for the WBC welterweight world title.

Shown here are (from left) Cignal TV execs Sienna Olaso and Gerardo Milan, Smart Communications’ Kristine Go and MVP Sports Foundation’s Jude Turcuato.

The Imus AJAA Sluggers display their trophy and the replica check representing the winner’s prize pot after ruling the 1st AJAA Invitational Softball Tournament. Inset photo shows the runner-up Batang GenTri squad. Dennis Abrina

Mazzulla praises team effort in Celtics’ Game 2 Finals win

NEW YORK—Boston’s 105-98 victory over Dallas in game two of the NBA Finals was the kind of total team effort that Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla hopes will silence debate over who is the team’s best player.

“I’m really tired of hearing about one guy or this guy or that guy and everybody trying to make it out to be anything other than Celtic basketball,” an impassioned Mazzulla said after the Celtics took a 2-0 lead in the bestof-seven championship series.

“Everybody that stepped on that court today made winning plays on both ends of the floor.”

Mavs coach Jason Kidd had raised eyebrows when he told re-

Confident Newsome bad news for Beermen

By Peter Atencio

CHRIS Newsome played with a lot of confidence when he scored the crucial charities off CJ Perez’s foul with 11.3 ticks left to seal the Meralco Bolts’ Game 3, 93-89 win in the 48th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Philippine Cup on Sunday evening at the Araneta Coliseum. And when Newsome plays with confidence, it’s certainly bad news for any opposing team.

“They’re (teammates) looking for me, giving me the confidence to take the open shots. They’re encouraging me to be aggressive,” said Newsome as he helped the Bolts grab a 2-1 lead against the Beermen in their best-of-seven championship series. With the triumph, Meralco now has a chance to move closer to the crown in Game 4 on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. in the same venue. “That’s Meralco basketball for you. It’s not just about one person. It’s about the whole team that feeds each other’s confidence and when one guy’s down, we love to encourage each other,” added Newsome.

The 6’2” Newsome unleashed a triple that gave the Bolts a 91-89 edge in the last 34.1 seconds. Perez then missed on a drive with 30 ticks left and turned the ball over off Cliff Hodge’s rebound play. That evening, Newsome played above his average of 15.36 points when he tallied 26 points, including nine in the last period.

porters on Saturday that Jaylen Brown is Boston’s “best”, in comments interpreted as an attempt to stoke tension in the Celtics camp, particularly between Brown and five-time All-Star Jayson Tatum. Both brushed off the comments and both came up big in Boston’s second straight home win—but there was plenty of kudos to go around.

Jrue Holiday, an NBA champion with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021, led Boston’s scoring with 26 points.

Kristaps Porzingis came off the bench and with 12 points singlehandedly out-scored the Mavs reserves who combined for nine.

Payton Pritchard drilled a threepointer at the third-quarter buzzer to send the Celtics into the final quarter on a high and Derrick White chased down P.J. Washington for a crucial block in the final minute.

“We’ve got a lot of weapons on our team, so we’ve just got to trust what we’ve been doing all season long, trust our game plan,” Brown said, adding that trust is what carried the Celtics through a tough-shooting first half.

“We didn’t panic. We kept guarding, we stayed in the game and we kept trusting it and we made enough tonight to win the game,” he said.

As much as the Celtics wanted to spread the glory, Dallas star Kyrie Irving said the Mavericks must share the blame, even though Slovenian star Luka Doncic was quick to point to his own turnovers and missed free-throws as key to the defeat.

“He’s in the right for wanting to single himself out,” Irving said of his high-profile teammate, who nevertheless posted a 32-point triple-double.

“But this is a team game. He’s not alone and we’re going to tell him that.

“He’s fresh off the court. He’s spilling into his emotions, feels like he could play better, just like me.

“It’s on all of us. I think the message right now is just get our bearings together.” AFP

Agra, Spanish partner settle for silver in Bali padel tourney

By Randy Caluag

FILIPINA Jessica Agra and Maria Mayoral Estrada of Spain bowed to Kazahstan’s Albina Khabibulina and Constanza Kokorelis, 3-6, 3-6, in the women’s doubles final on Sunday night at the Asia Pacific Padel Tour (APPT) Bali Open in Indonesia.

Seeking her second pro women’s title

2 Taiwanese stand out in Century Tuna IRONMAN

SUBIC—In a remarkable display of athletic prowess, Chinese Taipei’s Cheng Tai Wu showcased outstanding swimming skills to secure a commanding lead, ultimately triumphing in the Century Tuna IRONMAN Philippines in Subic Bay Sunday.

Wu’s victory came despite a fierce comeback attempt by China’s Cheng Dan Lin during the last two stages of the exacting 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42km run race, highlighting the grueling nature of the IRONMAN challenge.

Chin Ting Hsu completed a Taiwanese sweep by topping the women’s division in contrasting fashion. She relied on her cycling prowess to overtake UAE’s Mafer Poveda Franco and Singapore’s Jennifer Uy.

Despite a modest swim time of 1:31:07, which placed her in eighth, Hsu’s impressive bike leg of 6:07:54 propelled her into the lead. She secured victory in the event organized by The IRONMAN Group with a total time of 12:18:38, including a 4:26:27 time in run, beating Franco by seven minutes. Franco clocked in at 12:25:37 with

segment times of 1:29:40 (swim), 06:21:37 (bike), and 4:22:20 (run), while Uy placed third with a total time of 12:41:03 (1:28:51-6:16:17-4:45:15).

Local athletes Sarah Eraña, Olive Salve, and Maryfel Aumentado initially showed promise with impressive swim times of 1:21:14, 1:21:19, and

01:21:26, respectively, but struggled during the bike stage, unable to regain their momentum. Japanese Goda Hiroko, who was in contention early on, also faltered during the run, finishing fourth with a time of 12:57:37. Filipina Anne Nuñez emerged as the top local finisher, securing fifth place

Padilla, Lapuz dominate; Macasaet shines in JPGT debut

BAGUIO—Tristan Padilla and Montserrat Lapuz showcased their skills in the premier age category, each in their unique style, while young Brianna Macasaet made a striking debut in the Junior Philippine Golf Tour’s Luzon Series 3 at Pinewoods Golf and Country Club here Monday.

Padilla dominated the boys’ 15-18 class with a 72, starting strong on the back nine with three birdies against a bogey. Despite a shaky front nine marred by bogeys on the challenging opening holes of the hilly course, his round, highlighted by a near-ace on No. 3, gave him a five-stroke advantage over Charles Serdenia.

The Splendido Taal leg winner faltered with a 77, while Mark Kobayashi carded a 79 and Ramon Fabie and Gabriel Handog followed

with 84 and 86, respectively.

“I gave myself a lot of opportunities but I need to work on my putting,” said Padilla, who finished second at Pradera Verde last month. His preparation on irons paid off with good birdie looks on Nos. 10 and 15, despite bogeys on Nos. 1, 4, and 14.

Padilla nearly aced No. 3 off a superb 5-iron knockdown shot into the wind that rested within a foot off the cup. “I thought I made a hole-in-one,” said Padilla. He didn’t need to, as his even-par output secured him a commanding lead in the 72-hole tournament organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. Meanwhile, Serdenia struggled through a roller-coaster round in the somewhat cold, windy conditions at the tricky yet scenic Gary Player-designed

course. The fairways wind through the stunning Cordillera mountain range, enveloped in the invigorating scent of pine and often shrouded in thick fogs late in the afternoon.

Serdenia gunned down five birdies but made eight bogeys in a 38-37 card marred by a double bogey on the difficult par-4 second hole, showcasing the course’s challenges that affected many players.

Lapuz, on the other hand, took charge in the girls’ 15-18 division despite an 18-over 90, edging out Rafa Anciano (92), Chloe Rada (94) and Angelica Bañez (98).

with a total time of 13:02:52. Salve (13:07:58), Eraña (13:27:15), and Aumentado (13:43:25) rounded out the top eight, showcasing strong efforts despite the challenging conditions. But the day belonged to the 31-yearold Wu, whose exceptional 54:40 swim leg gave him a decisive advantage. Despite slower times in the bike (4:47:22) and run (3:35:38), Wu’s overall time of 9:35:26 bested last year’s champion Dutchman Eric van der Linden (9:56:20), and 2022 winner Czech Petr Lukosz (9:52:34). Seychelles’ Nick Baldwin’s record of 8:50:13 in the inaugural Century Tuna IRONMAN in 2018 remains unbeaten. Lin’s impressive performances in the bike and run stages (4:48:02 and 3:25:51, respectively) resulted in a total time of 9:38:09, securing second place. Australian Thibault Legrand finished third with a time of 9:43:53, while Portugal’s Martin Tresca, boasting the fastest run time of 3:22:55, came in fourth at 9:48:35. Filipino athletes also shone, with Mervin Santiago finishing 12th at 10:08:20 and John Dedeus Alcala placing 18th with a time of 10:26:38.

Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles the ball against Jrue Holiday of the Boston Celtics during the third quarter in Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. AFP

Chinese Taipei’s Cheng Tai Wu

Jessica Agra

Tristan Padilla takes command despite a challenging finish on the front nine. Manny Marcelo

Chris Newsome

Foreign direct investment inflows climbed 42% to $3b in first quarter

By Othel V. Campos

non-resident subsidiary/associate in its resident direct investor.

declined 11.3 percent to $64 million in March 2024 from $72 million in March 2023.

FDI net inflows in March 2024

FOREIGN

direct investment (FDI) net inflows rose for the third consecutive month this year, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

FDIs can be in the form of equity capital, reinvestment of earnings and borrowings.

$686 million $557 million $3 billion

FDI net inflows in March 2023

Data from the BSP showed that net FDI inflows reached $686 million in March 2024, a 23.1 percent increase year-on-year.

FDIs refer to investment by a non-resident direct investor in a local enterprise, whose equity capital in the latter is at least 10 percent and investment made by a

The BSP said the higher figure in March was led by nonresidents’ net investments in debt instruments, which grew 19.0 percent yearon-year to $465 million from $391 million in March 2023. Net investments in debt instruments consist mainly of intercompany borrowing/lending between foreign direct investors and their subsidiaries/affiliates in the Philippines.

Nonresidents’ net investments in equity capital excluding reinvested earnings also rose 67.1 percent to $157 million from $94 million.

Reinvested earnings, however,

Equity capital placements in March came mainly from Japan, Singapore and the United States. These investments were concentrated in manufacturing, financial and insurance and real estate.

This brought FDI net inflows to $3.0 billion in the first quarter of 2024, a 42.1-percent increase from $2.1 billion recorded a year ago.

“FDI increased during the quarter on the back of the country’s strong growth prospects and moderating inflation,” the BSP said.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said this shows the growing confidence of global investors in the Philippines as a prime investment destination.

NEDA defends rice tariff cut, commits to food security

THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) on Monday defended the reduction in rice tariffs, saying the move aims to balance affordability for consumers with support for domestic rice production.

NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the board’s decision targets ensuring Filipinos’ access to “nutritious and affordable food, particularly rice,” while managing inflation and economic growth.

FDI net inflows in first quarter

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said Monday it is investigating 29 power generating companies for possible breach of outage allowance in April and May.

“We are still completing because the team had to include more gencos [generation companies], but

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) rallied behind First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos’ latest cultural tourism project, the Intramuros Tourist Center.

“The Intramuros Tourist Center symbolizes our gateway to the past,” First Lady Marcos said, underscoring its role in celebrating Manila’s rich history and fostering a sense of national identity.

She said the center “tells the stories of our ancestors and provides a welcoming space for Filipinos to reconnect with their heritage.”

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco acknowledged the First Lady’s initiative as a key step towards establishing a world-class Philippine tourism experience.

“The Intramuros Tourist Center represents our commitment to preserving and sharing the unique cultural heritage of Manila,” Frasco

the target is to present to the commission this month,” ERC chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said.

“Upon further evaluation, the team decided to expand the investigation to get a more accurate picture,” Dimalanta said.

The ERC’s initial investigation showed that five power generating companies already breached the outage allowance. The regulator

said. The center is housed within the ruins of San Ignacio Church, one of seven original churches in Intramuros. Destroyed during World War II, the church has been given a new life through an adaptive reuse initiative.

The project, funded by the Office of the President and spearheaded by the First Lady, signifies a major milestone in preserving Manila’s cultural heritage.

The center offers a comprehensive look at Intramuros’ past, from the precolonial era to the Spanish colonial period as the seat of government, and its ongoing development.

Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the Walled City’s significance through historical exhibits and archaeological finds displayed alongside the Museo de Intramuros’ collection.

Frasco said the center is dedicated to

conducted the investigation in the wake of the recent red and yellow alerts across all grids in April and May.

ERC director for market operations service Sharon Montaner earlier said a majority of the generating units blamed the outage in Luzon to constraints on resources such as water for hydro plants and steam for geothermal plants.

“Rice contributed about two percentage points to inflation in the past three months,” Balisacan said in a statement. “Reducing rice tariffs is expected to bring down prices for consumers while supporting domestic production through continued tariffs and increased budgetary support to improve farm productivity, especially as global rice prices remain high.”

The statement comes amid calls from some farmers’ groups for Balisacan’s resignation over the tariff reduction.

Balisacan acknowledged “concerns raised by our farmers” and assured the public “this decision was not made lightly.” He said the NEDA board, chaired by the president and composed of Cabinet members, unanimously approved a recommendation from the Committee on Tariff and Related Matters for a new Comprehensive Tariff Program for 2024-2028.

“The board, as a collegial body, recognized the strategic importance of ensuring access and affordability of essential commodities while balancing the interests of consumers, local producers, and the economy,” Balisacan said. “This is crucial for fostering rapid, sustained, and inclusive economic growth.”

The ERC imposed P60 million in penalties on 14 generation companies in 2023 for breaching the allowable number of outage days.

Under ERC Resolution No. 10, series of 2020, the commission conducts an investigation to determine if the generator outages were justified or could be excused under the regulation.

DoubleDragon plans to raise P10b from bond market

By Jenniffer B. Austria

DOUBLEDRAGON Corp. said Monday it will raise up to P10 billion from the offering of fixedrate retail bonds.

DoubleDragon said in a stock exchange filing its board of directors approved the P10-billion retail bond issuance which obtained a credit rating of PRS Aaa from the Philippine Rating Services Corp. (PhilRatings).

PhilRatings also assigned an issuer credit rating of PRS Aaa (Triple A) to DoubleDragon, making it one of the few companies in the Philippines with a credit rating of PRS Aaa (Triple A).

DoubleDragon did not disclose additional details on the proposed bond offering, particularly on the timetable and use of proceeds. The company has P9.7 billion worth of retail bonds maturing in July.

The company has been aggressively expanding its leasing portfolio with the construction of provincial community malls, warehouse complexes, office buildings and hotels.

It has completed 1.3 million square meters of gross floor area from various leasing businesses.

DoubleDragon, which has invested in a diversified hard asset portfolio spread out across the Philippines, ear-

lier said its total equity would exceed P100 billion for the first time this year.

It also developed a novel asset-light concept and highly unique business model in Hotel101 (HBnB) that can be expanded overseas.

Its subsidiary Hotel101 Global is set to list on the Nasdaq in the United States via a merger with a special purpose acquisition company.

Hotel101 Global and affiliates will have an equity value of $2.3 billion, or about P130 billion, following the completion of the merger transaction.

Hotel101’s long-term vision is to have one million rooms, operating in over 100 countries worldwide. It identified the first 25 priority countries for expansion: the Philippines, Japan, Spain, the U.S., United Kingdom, the U.A.E., India, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Mexico, South Korea, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Turkey, Italy, Germany, France, and Saudi Arabia.

It is also developing projects in Japan, Spain and the United States.

VOLUNTEER PROGRAM. Sanofi Vaccines in the Philippines and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), National Capital RegionField Office (NCR-FO), formalize their partnership to make a positive impact in the community through a volunteering program for Sanofi employees. Signing the partnership agreement are (from left) Bienvenido Jr. Barbosa, DSWD NCR-FO assistant regional director for operations and Kashmira Prabhu, Sanofi head of vaccines for the Philippines and Indonesia.

Local stocks plummet, track other markets; Peso falls to 58.79 a dollar

PHILIPPINE share prices plunged Monday, mirroring the drop in Asian markets after a US jobs report released over the weekend came in hotter-than-expected.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) tumbled 60.12 points, or 0.92 percent, to close at 6,458.64, while the broader all-shares index lost 24.69 points, or 0.71 percent, to settle at 3,467.24.

“The PSEi plunged in today’s session driven by stronger-than-expected US jobs data from last week, which bolstered belief that US Federal Reserve won’t be slashing rates anytime soon,” Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said.

“Additionally, investors are gearing up for the upcoming US inflation data release this week, with analysts

GLOBE Telecom Inc. reaped honors at the Twimbit Telecom Awards, with its president and chief executive recognized for lifetime achievement and the company honored for its venture into the financial technology space.

Twimbit, a renowned research and advisory firm, empowers businesses to innovate and grow by providing critical industry intelligence.

The awards, which evaluated over 100 companies across 23 categories this year, celebrates excellence in various facets of the telecom industry.

Ernest Cu, who has helmed Globe since 2008, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his exemplary leadership and transformative impact on the telecom industry.

CEBU Pacific said Monday its signature seat sale is making another comeback this June, giving every passenger the opportunity to discover the beauty and diversity of the Philippines through the airline’s value-formoney fares and widest network.

Passengers may book flights to select local destinations for as low as P1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges from June 10 to 13, 2024.

The travel period for domestic destinations will be from Sept. 1, 2024 to Jan. 31, 2025, allowing passengers to book flights in advance for their much-awaited getaway.

Select international destinations are also on sale, with the travel period starting from July 1, 2024 to Jan. 31, 2025.

“The Philippines is a treasure trove of diverse islands and provinces, each offering exciting adventures and experiences especially for young travelers. With Cebu Pacific’s affordable fares and extensive domestic network, the opportunity for growth and discovery becomes limitless. We encourage young Juans to start their journey of exploration right here in the Philippines,” said Cebu Pacific chief marketing and customer experience officer Candice Iyog,.

Those longing for a quick breather may find solace in the nearby islands of Dumaguete, Iloilo and Zamboanga.

anticipating that US inflation will likely remain steady on a quarter-onquarter,” he said.

Value turnover was thin at P2.85 billion, as investors opted to stay on the sidelines.

All indices ended in the red led by mining and oil which dropped 1.92 percent, followed by financial and services which declined 1.62 percent and 1.18 percent, respectively.

The peso also declined Monday to close at 58.79 against the US dollar from 58.52 on Friday.

Meanwhile, European markets sank with the euro on Monday after a win for far-right parties in EU elections and French President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to call a snap parliamentary poll fueled uncertainty in the bloc. Jenniffer B. Austria

He is credited for steering the once trailing company into the country’s mobile leader, holding market share leadership for seven straight years.

Cu, in accepting the award, reflected on his path and the collective efforts behind Globe’s success. He also shared insights into the firm’s evolution, emphasizing a culture of innovation and customer-centricity.

“When I embarked on this journey years ago, my vision was to revolutionize the telecommunications landscape in the Philippines. Amidst the disruptions of that era, we adopted a challenger mindset. By embracing disruption, we transformed crises into opportunities and delivered one innovation after another to create wonderful experiences

Travelers mapping out a holiday trip with their family or friends may consider glamping in the serene campsites of Bacolod and General Santos.

Thrill-seekers on a quest for adrenaline-pumping activities may enjoy white water rafting in Cagayan De Oro, canyoneering in Cebu, or reverse bungee jumping at Outland Adventure in Davao.

Meanwhile, nature lovers with a penchant for scenic vistas may capture the majestic appeal of the Mayon Volcano in Legazpi, or the geological marvel of the world-renowned Chocolate Hills in Bohol.

Travelers have more reason to explore the various islands and provinces in the Philippines, one by one with Cebu Pacific’s wide range of domestic destinations and low fares made even more affordable.

for our customers,” said Cu in recent ceremonies in Singapore. Under Cu’s leadership, Globe turned its purpose to uplift the lives of Filipinos through technology, ensuring that no one is left behind. It addresses Filipinos’ daily challenges— from financial services to healthcare, education, and beyond—by providing digital solutions at scale to truly make a difference. Meanwhile, Globe’s venture into the fintech sector through Mynt, operator of the country’s No. 1 Finance superapp GCash, earned the “Telco to Ace Financial Services” award. This recognizes telcos that have successfully integrated financial services into their offerings, reshaping banking, payments, and financial transactions.

I WILL never forget the time when I had a chance to meet Mr. Kingson Sian, the CEO of Newport World Resorts. I was headed to the Sheraton Hotel to arrive at the venue an hour earlier. Unfortunately, I made a wrong turn when approaching the hotel. I returned to NAIAX again, which prolonged my travel time and caused me to arrive thirty minutes after the scheduled call time. Luckily, I made it just in time for his talk.

Opening his journey and sharing his life as a CEO, Mr. Kingson Sian talked about the history of Newport World Resorts and the difficulties the business has faced over the years. This dates to when the business changed its name from Resorts World to Newport World Resorts because of asset liquidation from Genting Hong Kong.

Being a leader requires striking a careful balance between using your mind and your heart.

Another setback was the 2010 Manila hostage crisis, which had a significant impact on the Philippine tourism industry and was caused by the hijacking of a tourist bus in Rizal Park, Manila, by a former PNP officer. Not too long ago, a lone shooter broke into Resorts World, lighting gaming tables on fire and leaving at least 36 people dead. Furthermore, the pandemic and the pressing need for crisis management presented the organization with its greatest challenges. Fall seven times, stand up eight So, how did Newport World Resorts thrive in times of adversity? After everything the company went through, I was completely astounded by Mr. Sian’s explanation of its strategy for bouncing back after setbacks.

During the pandemic, the company transformed its hotel to house balikbayans needing quarantine, encouraged employees to deliver food for financial opportunities, housed employees to comply with COVID restrictions, and created programs to keep them engaged. They ensured all employees were cared for, received regular compensation, and avoided layoffs. Their bayanihan spirit was truly admirable, showcasing shared goals and responsibilities and inspiring and rallying their people during difficult times. Make the world better

After the pandemic passed, New World Resorts increased the bar for sustainability by combining and integrating several hotel projects into

a single initiative known as “I Love Earth (ILE).”

During the pandemic, waste management became a major issue due to increased demand for PPE and single-use plastics. In response, the company launched the I Love Earth initiative to promote sustainable living and environmental protection. They believe in rethinking how they interact with the environment and conduct business. One of their projects is the ‘I Love Earth Urban Farm,’ where they grow high-value vegetables for their restaurants and have established hydroponic gardens in partnership with Urban Greens. Plastic water bottles have been removed from the hotels, and reusable glass water bottles have been used. Eco-friendly uniforms made of plastic bottles also exist. Regular cloth and recycled plastic bottles used after consumption are combined to create casino uniforms.

Used linens are recycled to create kitchen towels, pajamas, and decorations. Reducing food waste is another goal. Converting watermelon rinds into candy, pineapple peels into organic cleaning solutions, and other food waste into compost are some strategies to do this. A “WasteMoMeter” meter measures collective efforts to decrease food waste in everyday operations.

Leading with heart and mind

Seeing how Newport World Resorts became resilient in facing adversity, it is evident that the company’s leadership style affects its and its employees’ ability to achieve higher performance levels. As Urban Meyer states, “Leaders create culture. Culture drives behavior. Behavior produces results.” Newport World Resorts’ story is very motivational. Whenever I can speak with my colleagues about leadership, I usually start with this motivational tale and how important a role leaders play in shaping an organization’s culture.

Being a leader requires striking a careful balance between using your mind and your heart. Those who lead with their head prioritize authority, strategic decision-making, and accomplishing the organization’s goals. On the other hand, those who lead with their heart prioritize empathy, teamwork, and employee safety. To build a harmonious and successful leadership style that helps reach success, leaders should incorporate traits from both leadership styles.

The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University. She wrote this reflection paper for her class on Trends and Issues in Business and Management: CEO Series. She can be reached at bernadette_clemente@ dlsu.edu.ph.

GREEN LIGHT Bernadette Clemente

INDUSTRY TRANSFORMATION. Siemens president and chief executive for ASEAN Dr. Thai Lai Pham and Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual sign a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) to renew their partnership to advance Industry 4.0 transformation in the Philippines. Under the MOU, DTI and Siemens will scale up efforts, with DTI set to unveil the country’s first state-of-the-art Industry 4.0 Pilot Factory this year.

BUSINESS

DA lifts ban on Ohio poultry products

COCONUT DELIVERIES. Farmers from the Catubig Cluster, led by the Hibubullao San Jose Irrigators Services Association Inc. (HISA), prepare their first shipment of whole coconuts for delivery to Samar Coco Products Manufacturing Corp. (SCMPC). The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) facilitated the coconut farmer organizations in the municipalities of Catubig, Laoang, San Roque and Mondragon in Northern Samar on their groundbreaking commercial delivery consisting of 7,685 kilograms of whole coconuts to SCPMC.

Rice retailers seek grace period before implementation of tariff reduction

RICE retailers are calling for a two to three-month grace period to allow retailers and millers to unload existing rice stocks before the tariff reduction takes effect.

“Many retailers, wholesalers, and millers still have rice stocks purchased at higher prices,” said Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement (PRISM) co-founder Orly Manuntag.

“These include imported rice bought with a 35 percent tariff and locally milled rice acquired during

Online sale of illicit vapes won’t be tolerated—Lumagui

BUREAU of Internal Revenue (BIR)

Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. asked online platforms to make sure the sale of vape products are compliant with tax stamps, minimum floor price and other BIR requirements. He said online platforms should only allow duly-registered online sellers with the BIR to sell vape online. The online trade of vape is regulated by BIR Revenue Regulation No. 14-2022 (RR No. 14-2022).

The BIR is monitoring both online platforms and brick-and-mortar stores that are selling vape products for possible violations of BIR regulations on vape products.

“Online platforms should monitor vape sellers in their platforms, they should check if they are complying with tax stamps, minimum floor price, and other BIR requirements. They should take down any online post or offering that is in direct violation of the minimum floor price, tax stamps, and other BIR regulations on vape,” he said.

“We have been receiving reports that online sellers of vape are actively selling their products at a low price because they are not paying their taxes. These online sellers of illicit vape destroy the livelihood of legitimate vape sellers. The BIR protects legitimate businesses and closes illegitimate businesses. Online platforms should do the same,” Lumagui said.

Section 5 of RR No. 14-2022 provides that the sale or distribution of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products, novel tobacco products and their devices through internet websites or via e-commerce should be compliant with BIR requirements, including tax stamps, minimum floor price, or other fiscal marks.

the last harvest, where palay prices ranged from P29 to P31 per kilo,” he said.

Manuntag cited the need for ample time to sell existing stocks at current prices to avoid significant financial losses for stakeholders in the rice industry.

The group also expressed concerns about the potential impact of the reduced tariff on Filipino farmers.

“We urge the Department of Agriculture to implement a safety net

FARM TO MARKET.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its Rural Agro-enterprise Partnership for Inclusive Development (RAPID) and Growth Project, turns over Caraga ’s first farm-to-market infrastructure (FMI) in Sta. Josefa, Agusan del Sur, following a successful supervision and implementation support mission by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

program to protect our local farmers,” Manuntag said.

The program should include support for seeds, fertilizer, and additional cash incentives, to ensure continued income and livelihood of farmers, he said.

The group agrees with the estimated P5 to P6 per kilo drop in rice prices once the halved tariff takes effect. However, PRISM clarified that the final price would depend on several factors, including global rice market prices, logistics costs, and dollar ex-

change rate

Manuntag noted the importance of regular communication and collaboration among stakeholders in the rice industry.

“We believe there should be monthly or bi-monthly consultative meetings between all players in the rice supply chain. These meetings will ensure everyone is updated on market developments and can work together for a more stable rice supply and pricing for Filipino consumers,” he said.

Othel V. Campos

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has lifted the temporary ban on poultry and bird products from Ohio in the United States.

The ban, implemented in January 2024, addressed concerns about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreaks in Ohio. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Memorandum Order No. 23 on June 7, 2024, officially lifting the restriction.

The ban covered domestic and wild birds, including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs and semen originating from Ohio.

The DA said it based its decision on a report from the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) submitted to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH).

The report confirmed that Ohio has successfully contained all avian flu cases and reported no new outbreaks since April 2, 2024.

The update from US veterinary authorities allowed the Philippines to resume trade in poultry and bird products from Ohio.

On Saturday, the DA imposed a ban on imports of birds and poultry products from Australia over the alleged bird flu outbreak in Australian states. It said it would prohibit the imports from Australia of wild and domestic birds, including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs and semen.

Australia was the Philippines’ fourth-largest source of imported chicken meat, accounting for 4 percent of its total volume of chicken imports.

DTI Region 2, Ilagan officials visit Thailand to boost corn production

THE Department of Trade and Industry Region 2 (DTI R2) teamed up with the city government of Ilagan, Isabela to embark on a two-day business mission to Thailand to bolster Ilagan’s standing as the corn capital of the Philippines,

The mission aimed to explore further mechanization and development opportunities for the city’s corn industry.

Ilagan is a major contributor to corn production in the Philippines with a record of 155,767,000 kilograms of corn produced per cropping season.

This translates into 2.07 percent of the national corn production and 13.92 percent of Isabela province’s output. With 33 percent of its land dedicated to agriculture, the city’s local government is actively pursuing initiatives to transform corn production into a sustainable and lucrative enterprise for its residents, especially local farmers.

Ilagan City Mayor Josemarie Diaz, together with officials from DTI R2, joined the mission from May 30 to 31.

The itinerary included visits to renowned private companies and government-operated facilities in Thailand, known for their advanced machinery and export-quality corn products. The visit aimed to assess the feasibility of integrating Thai technologies into Ilagan City’s existing infrastructure.

Six Mindanao LGUs now compliant with eBOSS, says ARTA

SIX more local government units (LGUs) in Mindanao are now fully compliant with the electronic Business One-Stop Shop (eBOSS), according to the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA).

The additional eBOSS-compliant LGUs are Davao City, General Santos City, Malaybalay City, Tagoloan, El Salvador City and Dapitan City, ARTA said in a statement.

It said these LGUs, which established eBOSS between May 3 and 31, would help ARTA achieve its target of making 200 LGUs fully compliant by year-end. ARTA described eBOSS as a single portal for business permit applications and renewals, implemented by the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Department of Trade and Industry and ARTA.

A fully established eBOSS offers an online system for receiving electronic business applications through a unified application form; issuance of electronic tax bills, fire safety inspection certificate fees, and barangay clearance fees; the capability to issue electronic permits; and acceptance of non-cash payment methods.

“This is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to digitalize government processes to improve ease of doing business and reduce red tape,” ARTA director-general Ernesto Perez said.

He said ARTA is prepared to assist LGUs in achieving full eBOSS compliance.

The Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018 mandated all LGUs to establish eBOSS by June 17, 2021. ARTA said 36 LGUs had fully-established eBOSS as of June 7.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS’ MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the annual stockholders’ meeting of THE PHILIPPINE STOCK EXCHANGE, INC. will be on 6 July 2024, Saturday, 9:00 a.m. and will be held virtually with the following Agenda:

1. Determination of Quorum

2. Approval of the Minutes of the Previous Stockholders’ Meeting

Ratification and Confirmation of Acts and Resolutions of the Board of Directors

Appointment of External Auditor

Acquisition of Philippine Dealing System Holdings Corporation

8. Confirmation of the Renewal of the Employee Stock Purchase Plan 9. Election of Directors

10. Consideration of such other business that may properly come 11. Adjournment

Only stockholders of record at the close of business of 10 May 2024 are entitled to notice

The Information Statement and other documents in connection with the holding of the annual stockholders’ meeting

We are not soliciting your proxy. If you are unable to attend the

BCDA names 3 sites to replace Kalangitan landfill

By Othel V. Campos

THE state-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) identified three operational facilities that can serve as alternatives to the Kalangitan sanitary landfill in Capas, Tarlac once its contract expires later this year.

BCDA chairman Delfin Lorenzana assured local government units (LGUs) that they have “more than enough capacity” to handle their waste disposal needs.

“To those LGUs who use the Kalangitan [landfill], please do not worry as there are facilities where you can dispose of your garbage. We have three and a half months to arrange the

BPI warns firms against executive phishing attacks

BANK of the Philippine Islands (BPI) warned companies and the general public against the proliferation of executive phishing attacks, or whaling, which is known to be a sophisticated social engineering scam that preys on the members of an organization.

BPI enterprise information security and data protection officer Jonathan John Paz said executive phishing or whaling can occur over emails and messaging applications like Viber and WhatsApp, in which unscrupulous individuals pose as a senior management figure to induce the employees to execute fraudulent transactions or lure them into divulging sensitive or confidential information.

“Cyberattacks against organizations do happen and it could cost millions in terms of data loss, financial impact, and operational disruption,” he said.

“Line managers, particularly those with access to critical data or tasked with critical transactions, face the biggest risk of whaling, that is why it’s important to conduct regular cybersecurity awareness training and attack simulations within the company,” said Paz.

Paz urged the public to be alert and exercise caution with emails and attachments to protect themselves from this type of social engineering scams. He advised the public to verify the sender. “Before taking any action, make sure that the sender’s name, email address, and contact number are correct. If you don’t normally receive an email or message from the sender, ask a person in authority to verify their legitimacy,” he said.

transition from Kalangitan to these three facilities,” Lorenzana said over a Net 25 interview.

The identified landfills include a facility operated by Eco Protect Management Corp. with a daily capacity of 2,500 metric tons; a sanitary landfill managed by Florida Blanca Enviro Park Project Corp. with a capacity of 3,500 MT per day; and a materials recovery facility by Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc. with a 5,000 MT daily capacity.

“In total, the capacity is already 11,000 MT for these three facilities in Central Luzon, mostly in Pampanga. Metro Clark has an average capacity of 2,500 MT. So these three facilities are enough to service the LGUs sur-

rounding Clark,” Lorenzana said.

He said the contract between Clark Development Corp. (CDC) and Metro Clark Waste Management Corp. (MCWMC) could not be renewed or extended.

The BCDA’s legal counsel confirmed that extending the contract, even temporarily, would violate the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Law.

The BCDA said it is actively exploring long-term solutions through studies and benchmarking successful waste management projects in other countries to identify alternative solutions that minimize disruption to garbage collection and promote sustainability in Tarlac, Pampanga and surrounding areas.

RCI denies plan to evict farmers from haciendas

By Jenniffer B. Austria

OXAS & Co. Inc. (RCI) on Monday expressed willingness to cooperate with the affected barangays on the planned development of the newly-acquired farmlands in Batangas province.

RCI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange while it was waiting for further instructions from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), it was also willing to cooperate with the affected barangays to minimize disruption within the areas for any planned development.

RCI issued the clarification after it was reported that some 1,000 residents of Batangas gathered at Makati’s Freedom Park to protest the plans of the company to evict some 50,000 individuals from Haciendas Palico, Banilad and Kaylaway covering up to 2,941 hectares in nine barangays.

The farmers were allegedly being evicted to make way for the RCI’s planned real estate development.

“To date, there are no actions planned on the properties and affected parties until our company receives further instructions from the Depart-

THE Social Security System (SSS) said Monday its members can boost their retirement and savings through the MySSS Pension Booster program, which offers a projected 7.2-percent annual return.

SSS president and chief executive Rolando Ledesma Macasaet said the SSS renamed the Worker’s Investment and Savings Program (WISP) and WISP Plus into the MySSS Pension Booster to reflect the primary goal of the savings program of boosting their retirement funds.

Macasaet said the MySSS Pension Booster savings schemes were part of the reforms introduced by Republic Act No. 11199 or the Social Security Act of 2018, sponsored by Finance Secretary

THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) said it is prepared to offer emergency loans to members and pensioners affected by Mount Kanlaon’s eruption on June 3. Eligible members and pensioners with existing loans can borrow up to P40,000, allowing them to clear their current balance and receive a net amount of P20,000. Those without existing emergency loans can avail of up to P20,000.

The GSIS said to qualify, active members should be based in the declared calamity area, not on unpaid leave, have no pending legal cases, have paid premiums within the last six months and maintain a net take-home pay of at least P5,000 as required by the General Appropriations Act. Old-age and disability pensioners in the affected zones may also apply, provided their net monthly pension remains at least 25 percent post-loan. It said that with a low interest rate of 6 percent and a three-year repayment term, the emergency loan offers a viable financial relief option. Applications can be conveniently submitted via the GSIS Touch mobile app, available on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Ralph G. Recto during his tenure as a senator.

“We want to thank Secretary Recto for helping pass this landmark legislation in 2019. We also want to acknowledge him for conceptualizing these retirement savings schemes, which we rebranded today as MySSS Pension Booster. So, we are grateful that he pushed for the inclusion of the program in the law, which is boosting the retirement funds of millions of members,” Macasaet said.

Recto also serves as the chairperson of the Social Security Commission, the highest governing body of the SSS.

Macasaet noted the importance of early retirement planning during the relaunching event of the MySSS Pen-

sion Booster at the SSS headquarters in Quezon City, which was attended by maritime professionals, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), self-employed professionals and corporate executives.

“Aside from renaming the program, we also want to reposition the MySSS Pension Booster to cater more to corporate managers and executives, doctors, lawyers, OFWs, Filipino expats, seafarers, young professionals among others, as we have identified their need for bigger retirement funds. We do not lose sight of the other SSS members through other programs, but our rebranding is a move towards capturing those who want to invest more and can invest more to enroll in the MySSS Pension Booster,” Macasaet said.

ment of Agrarian Reform,” RCI said.

“The company is also studying and finalizing the highest and best use study and master plan for the estate; thus, any actions taken or to be taken, on or against the properties concerned are mere speculations at this point,” it said.

RCI said that apart from the duty to vacate peacefully the properties to be distributed to the agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs), it has no other financial obligations to the latter. Farmers earlier called on banks not to grant financial support or any extension of loans to RCI until such time that that the firm settled its obligations with the affected ARBs.

RCI in February secured ownership rights over huge track of land in Batangas, ending a four-decade long land dispute with ARBs, after the DAR confirmed its ownership rights over the properties.

IN BRIEF

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

BPI unveils list of activities for 3rd edition of sustainability month

THE Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is gearing up for the third edition of its much-anticipated annual Sustainability Awareness Month (SAM) this month, in alignment with the bank’s sustainability agenda. In its steadfast commitment to responsible banking and operations, BPI has curated an engaging lineup of activities designed to encourage Filipinos to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

With the theme “Beyond Green,” this month-long initiative provides opportunities for the members of the public to adopt sustainable practices and become ambassadors for responsible and sustainable living.

Initially celebrating BPI’s thrust towards sustainability was the Philippine’s first Corporate Run: #BestLifeRun Corporate Race 2024, scheduled on June 9 at the Ayala Triangle Gardens. The event promoted employee health and

wellness while fostering business camaraderie through a fun, healthy activity. More than 120 companies and organizations participated in this year’s corporate race.

The BPI #BestLifeRun, anticipated to attract 4,000 participants, will took along Ayala Avenue in Makati City.

On June 13, two enlightening webinars are slated to empower par-

ticipants with actionable insights. “SustainableME: Power Up your Biz with Renewable Energy” shines a spotlight on BPI Ka-Negosyo Green Financing and Ka-Negosyo SOLARise solutions, catering specifically to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enable them to leverage renewable energy solutions for

tainable business operations.

UNDP official urges collaboration to save and preserve biodiversity

THE United Nations Development Program (UNDP ) called for partnerships to protect and preserve biodiversity on the planet and the need to change misconceptions that environmental interests and development and economic interests are a tradeoff.

“The plan to save the world’s biodiversity is an ambitious one, but it is possible through our collective efforts,” said UNDP Philippines resident representative Selva Ramachandran during the celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity in Taguig City on May 22. An official of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) warned during the same forum that global biodiversity loss is happening right now and sought massive efforts to stop the crisis and prevent its catastrophic impacts.

“The current state of global biodiversity loss around the world is alarming,” USAID Deputy Mission Director Rebekah Eubanks said.

“Species are disappearing at an unprecedented rate because of habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, unsustainable agricultural practices, and exploitation of natural resources,” Eubanks said at the gathering of government officials, advocates and stakeholders led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR BMB). DENR News

GT CAPITAL Holdings Inc. (GT Capital) and Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. (AEV) successfully hosted the latest session of the CarbonPH Education Series titled “Greening the Economy: Opportunities and Challenges of Transition Finance.”

The event brought together industry leaders and sustainability champions to discuss the pivotal role of transition finance in advancing a low-carbon economy.

The session was opened by Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, AEV chief reputation and sustainability officer and Aboitiz Foundation president, who set a collaborative and purpose-driven tone for the event.

She thanked event organizers, especially the GT Capital team led by

Joyce Baldueza-de Leon, chief risk officer and head of sustainability, and the Aboitiz Group team led by May Perez, AVP for sustainability.

“The increasing impacts of climate change to our economy highlight the need to transition to a low-carbon economy. With this session, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of transition finance, as it covers strategies, instruments, and policies to facilitate the flow of capital toward sustainable projects,” said Hontiveros-Malvar.

Participants explored opportunities and challenges associated with financing sustainable initiatives at both national and industry levels, seeking to identify barriers and innovative solutions.

THE UN Secretary-General has called for safeguarding Earth’s vital ecosystems from rampant pollution, worsening climate impacts and “biodiversity decimation”.

António Guterres, in a message marking World Environment Day on June 5, stressed that countries “must deliver” on all their commitments to restore degraded ecosystems and land, and on Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework, the global agreement to protect biodiversity.

“They must use their new national climate action plans to set out how they will halt and reverse deforestation by 2030. And we must drastically scale-up finance to support developing countries to adapt to violent weather, protect nature, and support sustainable development.”

The UN chief further highlighted that prompt and effective action makes economic sense.

“Every dollar invested in ecosystem restoration creates up to thirty dollars in economic benefits,” he said. Failure to curb runaway pollution, climate chaos and biodiversity destruction are clear for all to see. Healthy, fertile lands are transforming into deserts, thriving ecosystems into dead zones and rising carbon dioxide emissions.

“That means crops failing, water sources vanishing, economies weakened, and communities endangered—with the poorest hit hardest… It is time to break free,” the UN chief said.

“We are Generation Restoration. Together, let us build a sustainable future for land, and for humanity,” he added. Celebrated by millions around the world, World Environment Day has been held annually since 1973 and has grown to be largest global platform for environmental outreach ever. UN News

TWO OF FOUR PARTS

TEA’S etymology is just one element of its fascinating heritage. Its growth and production have been a part of cultures across the globe for centuries. To acknowledgement of this, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has designated five incredible tea production areas as Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) for their combination of unique landscapes, agricultural heritage and traditional farming methods passed down for generations. Yunnan province is considered the birthplace of the world’s

At the press conference launching the Sustainability Awareness Month of the Bank of Philippine Islands are BPI executives (from left) Jovi Alonso, chief credit officer; Eric Luchangco, chief finance officer and chief sustainability officer; Cathy Santamaria, chief customer and marketing Officer; and Dino Gasmen, treasurer and head of global markets.

TUESDAY, JUNE 11, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

GMA’s Joseph Francia honored at Asia’s Golden Icon Awards

GMA Network’s First Vice President and Head of International Operations Joseph T. Francia was honored as “Asia’s Remarkable Leader for Broadcast Media Operations” at the Asia’s Golden Icon Awards 2024: Celebrating Excellence and Impact Across Asia. The ceremony was held in Okada Manila on May 31.

In his acceptance speech, Francia underscored the network’s commitment to the Global Pinoys,

“For 19 years now, through GMA Pinoy TV, GLTV, and GNTV, we have platforms on television, online, and on the ground to inform and entertain Filipinos around the world, encourage community engagement, and advocate for the Global Pinoy among their circle of family and friends in the Philippines and around the world. We are honored that our efforts to use these platforms to positively impact society are recognized,” he says.

In his post, Francia oversees the business development, operations, marketing, programming, and multi-platform distribution across overseas markets of the Kapuso Network’s international channels GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV.

Under Francia’s leadership, GMA Pinoy TV, the Network’s international flagship channel and the home of Global Pinoys, has made significant strides in territory and platform distribution. With innovative programs now available digitally and accessible across various devices, Global Pinoys are brought closer to home while enjoying their favorite shows.

Beyond providing world-class entertainment, GMA International not only offers top-tier entertainment but also champions Global Pinoys through community engagements. They advocate for financial literacy, mental health awareness, and against anti-Asian hate.

Earlier this year, the Office of New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga declared Feb. 27 as GMA Network Day in recognition of GMA’s support for Filipino communities, especially in New York State and throughout the United States.

The Asia’s Golden Icon Awards 2024 honored distinguished personalities, including Senator Mark A. Villar for infrastructure leadership, COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia for public governance, and Director-General Rowel Barba of IPO for business and law. Local luminaries like Claudine Barretto and Ara Mina were also recognized. Internationally acclaimed awardees included H.E. Dr. Jurapas Pitaksethakarn from Thailand, Hendrik Van Der Ham from Netherlands, Erick Van Egeraat from the Netherlands, and others. The awards, organized by Dr. Ronnel P. Ybañez and Dr. Sergio Ortis-Luis, Jr. honor excellence across various sectors and celebrate the diversity of talent in Asia. Will Mark

SHOWBIZ

Leviste make Kris Aquino the next First Lady of Batangas?

As the 2025 midterm election nears, a formidable alliance in Batangas Province appears to be on the horizon. Vice Governor Mark Leviste recently posted back-to-back photos with incumbent Governor Dodo Mandanas, captioned “sealed with a handshake.” Mandanas is in his last term

tasked by the latter to do so.

It’s been weeks since the wedding of Mandanas to lawyer Angelica Chua , who is nearly 50 years younger, trended on social media.

Guests included President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. , First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos and former President

By Nickie Wang

AWhen asked if we would see Kris Aquino supporting his imminent run for the gubernatorial race, Leviste chose to stay nonchalant.

“Kris inspires me,” he says.

“She continues to motivate me in my work as a public servant.

Politics is not new to her.”

In past interviews, Leviste has expressed his willingness to marry Aquino.

“I see myself spending the rest of my life with her (Kris) and taking care of her. I am very sure the people of Batangas are

excited to have Kris as a future First Lady if given the chance.”

“My children and family love Kris and her sons. We adore them and we are looking forward to being one big, happy family one day.”

So the question remains: will we see Kris Aquino back in the Philippines should Leviste declare his run for the gubernatorial race?

Local surveys show Leviste as the top choice of Batangueños to replace Mandanas in the province’s top post.

Alfred Vargas

FEW days after taking home the Best Actor plum at this year’s FAMAS Awards, actor-politician Alfred Vargas celebrated his win with the showbiz press.

“You’ve been joining me in my every journey as an actor, that’s why I wanted to share this victory with you,” was his simple opening statement.

Despite his win at the prestigious awards show, the 42-year-old actor said that his film Pieta could still go places and admitted that he got hurt and disappointed when it did not make it to the official entries in the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) last year.

“Only a few people have seen it, but all of them consistently asked why Pieta wasn’t included in the MMFF. We’ve accepted that it’s tough to get into the MMFF, like passing through the eye of a needle,” Alfred shared.

Despite his disappointment, he fondly recalled his previous MMFF successes with films like Tagpuan, Bridal Shower, and Banal

“Sometimes you make it, sometimes you don’t. But I can’t deny it felt like a waste that Pieta wasn’t included because so many people believe in this film,” Alfred admitted. This year, he decided not to participate in the MMFF, choosing to focus on other pursuits.

Alfred is currently immersed in public service, supporting his brother PM Vargas, a successful congressman.

Since taking office, Alfred has accomplished much. He’s currently studying at the University of the Philippines Diliman, working towards his Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning. He’s also started a few businesses, and the added

his current phase of life.

Alfred shared his feelings about winning the Best Actor award alongside Piolo Pascual.

“I admit he’s a better congressman than I am. I’ll just support him in his area of excellence. So, in the next elections, we’ll maintain the status quo: my brother will run for congress, and I will run as councilor,” Alfred explained, highlighting his enjoyment in his role as a councilor, which allows him to pursue various endeavors.

flexibility has allowed him to spend more time with his family, recently welcoming their fourth child.

“And to top it all, I made a film with Nora Aunor, Gina Alajar, and Jaclyn Jose, and we even won an award. I’m enjoying myself and being very productive while serving,” he elaborated, clearly relishing

“I didn’t expect to win the coveted award. I attended the film event to celebrate with my fellow actors. I was already thinking about what to write in my social media caption to congratulate the winner. So, I felt honored when my name was called, and Piolo’s name was called later. I’ve looked up to him since our Talent Center days,” he said. Competing against the 49th MMFF Best Actor Cedrick Juan, Ken Chan, Alden Richards, and Dingdong Dantes Alfred felt honored just to be among such esteemed nominees.

“Whenever I hold the trophy, I feel so happy and honored. What’s important to me is that we achieved something with FAMAS, and at the end of the day, we were recognized for Pieta. After receiving the award, I slept with the trophy beside me. The issues surrounding FAMAS didn’t affect my sense of accomplishment,” he said.

“I’m just happy that our humble film was noticed despite being the only indie nominated,” he added.

During the huddle, showbiz columnist Jun Nardo bravely broached the controversial topic of FAMAS, asking Alfred about the persistent rumors of award-buying.

“FAMAS is not FAMAS without controversy. They say there’s a buying of awards in FAMAS. How do you feel about it?” Nardo inquired. Alfred responded cautiously but firmly, saying his win was legitimate.

“First, it’s not true. To everyone who watched Pieta, they would understand why we won.”

Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste (right) with Batangas Governor Dodo Mandanas

Leviste has declared

Gloria MacapagalArroyo, as well as other national and local government officials.

Alfred Vargas with his FAMAS Best Actor award

Christopher de Leon (left) shakes Vargas’ hand as the actor receives his award

Vargas (right) with fellow FAMAS Best Actor award recipient Piolo Pascual

Vargas (rightmost) with fellow ‘Pieta’ cast members Gina Alajar (leftmost) and Nora Aunor (center)

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Gabby Padilla makes dramatic theater comeback in REP’s new production

By Angelica Villanueva

GABBY Padilla has become a household name in the film industry, especially in awardwinning Filipino indie films, establishing herself as one of the most promising actresses of her generation.

The multifaceted actress recently won Best Actress for her role in Jopy Arnaldo’s Gitling at the Paragon Film Lokal Choice Awards. She has starred in films like Billie & Emma, Dead Kids, Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral, and Kalel, 15, and appeared in series such as K-Love and Secret Ingredient

Beyond the screen, she also loves storytelling and showcasing her acting skills in theater.

Gabby had her feet on the theater stage multiple times when she was part of local musicals such as A Little Princess Matilda, and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Now, she is back on the theater stage as one of the cast members of Repertory Philippines’ (REP) newest production, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!, which will be directed by Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change! is the longest-running off-Broadway musical, which will be based on the 2018 version, a modernized version of the musical comedy that was first staged in 1996.

The film and theater actress sat down with Manila Standard

Entertainment to discuss her time on stage and how she prepares herself to play almost 10 characters in the upcoming comedy musical.

When asked about the difference between performing live on stage and shooting a film, Gabby delved into the rehearsal process of how they could tell each character’s story.

“I think theater is very different from film in that we take our time with the rehearsal process. I think that’s one of my favorite things about it. It’s just trusting the process basically and working as an ensemble to tell the story,” said Gabby.

“Not that that’s not the dynamic in film, but I feel like with the theater, you lean into taking it page by page, studying every bit of it, and finding a way to tell the story, especially for material like this that are adaptations and restagings,” she added.

In terms of her performance on stage, Gabby emphasized how her acting changes when she’s in front of a live audience.

“It’s so different in the sense that it changes when there’s a live performance. It changes your performance. Every night it’s different because every night it’s a different set of people who come to watch you. And that’s the fun and kind of scary but exciting part about live theater,” Gabby explained.

“And also just the physicality and the physical stamina that it takes to make this, we’re doing set changes, we’re running for quick costume changes, we’re doing all the tests. So, more than all the other stuff that I’ve done in films so far, this is way more physically tiring and challenging,” she continued.

The 31-year-old actress also shared how she put a lot of effort into preparing herself for I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!

“So for this role, it was getting my voice ready, so voice lessons,

Will Smith slaps box office competition with ‘Bad Boys’

WILL Smith marked his first major film hit since his infamous Oscars slap as Bad Boys: Ride or Die debuted atop the North American box office, in a sign audiences are ready to welcome back the actor.

Sony’s fourth installment of the action comedy series took home an estimated $56 million, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported, making it a major step in Smith’s career rehabilitation after he slapped Chris Rock at the Academy Awards in 2022.

“Bad Boys is in elite company and the series has room to run. These are excellent numbers,” said analyst David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research.

The success is a welcome departure from Smith’s 2022 action release Emancipation, where his role as a

runaway slave in the American Civil War failed to resonate with audiences and flopped at the box office.

Bad Boys snatched first place from Sony’s family-friendly The Garfield Movie, starring Chris Pratt as the lazy, lasagna-loving feline, which dropped to second place with $10 million in ticket sales for the Fridaythrough-Sunday period.

In third and taking in $8 million was Paramount’s If, which follows Cailey Fleming as a young girl who, along with neighbor Ryan Reynolds embarks on an adventure to reconnect forgotten made-up playmates with their children.

Warner Bros horror film The Watchers opened in fourth place at $7 million, while 20th Century’s action sci-fi Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes ranked fifth at $5.4 million. AFP

and then just really studying the script. Because it seems so simple as a concept, but when you get into it, there are so many layers. And we don’t want to just play the comedy of it, we also wanted to bring out the heart of each character,” Gabby stated.

Gabby will be playing almost 10 characters in the musical which she admitted was a challenge for her. Dwelling into these characters, she also shared how she could relate to some of them.

“There are younger characters who are in the dating scene and they’re just so frustrated because—men. We’ve been there, right? Before we find our partners and our boyfriends. It really is like a trial and error dynamic,” she elaborated.

“There are some characters that I’ve yet to experience what they’ve experienced, but I feel so much for them because they’ve been through so much in terms of love, but they’ve remained so optimistic. And I hope that in life in general, whatever happens, I still retain that sense of optimism,” she continued.

If there’s one thing she learned about love as she played these characters, it’s the importance of finding someone who accepts you completely.

“I think it just confirmed what I felt about it. No matter how different you feel you are, no matter how, you know, each person, comes with a set of baggage and necessities, and you’re always making an account of why someone shouldn’t be with you, but when you do find that person, and I believe that you will, that’s where the magic is. Finding that person, who will accept you for who you are, baggage and all, will help you unpack that baggage,” she shared.

Gabby will be joined by Gian Magdangal, Krystal Kane, and Marvin Ong in I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change! which will run from June 14 until July 6, at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium.

LAS Piñas Rep. Camille Villar and social media sensation, Zeinab Harake, took some time off their busy schedules to bond with their children at the Villar Sipag Children’s Farm in Bacoor, Cavite.

Zeinab, who enjoys the support of 12 million followers on her YouTube account, personally visited the Las Piñas lawmaker at the farm for her Mother’s Day vlog last month.

“Actually, passionate mom and dad ko about farming and agriculture kaya ginawa nila ito, Gusto nila may parts dito na may vegetables, meron ding aquaculture, yung fish, tilapia,” Camille said when asked about the inspiration for the farm.

Camille and Zeinab also agreed that children should spend time outdoors so

that they will not be left playing on their gadgets at home.

At the Children’s Farm in Bacoor, Cavite, the kids went horseback riding, and feeding the farm animals including chickens, carabaos, and rabbits.

As moms, Camille and Zeinab also found time to cook spaghetti and fried chicken for their kids and the children from Child Hope Foundation.

During the cooking session, Camille shared her dreams for her children, Tristan, 8, and Cara, 1, who were also with her during the activity.

“Gusto ko sana, number one, maging masipag sila kasi tinuro sa akin ng mga parents namin na kung mayroon kang pangarap, kailangan pagtrabahuhan mo ‘yon,” she said. “Kailangan maging mabuting tao sila at masipag.” Camille’s kids joined Zeinab’s children — Lucas and Bia — who played around the farm.

Later on, several children from Child Hope Foundation were also treated to a day of fun and adventure at the Children’s Farm. Camille also gave some gifts from AllDay Supermarket, and toys from AllToys, while Zeinab distributed shoes to the kids.

The full vlog can be viewed at Zeinab Harake’s YouTube account.

Will Smith stars in ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’ as detective Mike Lowrey

Camille Villar’s (center) son Tristan (leftmost) scoops ice scream for Zeinab Harake (rightmost)

Camille Villar (left) and Zeinab Harake prepare food for children from the Child Hope Foundation

REP’s ‘I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!’ will be directed by Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo

Film and theater

actress Gabby Padilla will be playing nearly 10 characters in the upcoming musical

NICKIE WANG, Editor

VILLANUEVA, Writer

ADRIATICO, Writer

“IVery Wang

Nickie Wang

WISH to continue being the governor of Negros Oriental,” was Governor Manuel “Chaco” L. Sagarbarría’s response when I asked him what his birthday wish was. He turned 38 on May 18.

Tourism thrives in Negros Oriental

His celebration coincided with the unveiling of a historical marker at the capitol, commemorating its centennial anniversary. Among the guests of honor were Senators Imee Marcos, Francis Tolentino, Mark Villar, Jinggoy Estrada, and Risa Hontiveros, along with the Irish Ambassador to the Philippines, William Carlos The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) installed a historical marker to commemorate the centennial anniversary at the Capitol Grounds on Kagawasan Avenue, Dumaguete City, on May 17. During her speech, Senator Marcos couldn’t resist a playful jab, suggesting some Feng Shui adjustments or a few blessings for the capitol to shake off any bad vibes. Sagarbarría assumed leadership of the province during a challenging period, becoming the fourth governor in just two years due to a series of unfortunate events.

Former Governor Roel Degamo, who returned to office in October 2022 after a disputed election victory, was assassinated in March 2023. Initially, Pryde Henry Teves was declared the winner of the May 2022 elections, but a ruling shifted votes from a candidate named “Ruel Degamo” to Roel Degamo. After his assassination, Vice-Governor Carlo Jorge Reyes succeeded him but served only until his death in May 2023. Sagarbarría, initially elected as a board member and then vice governor, became governor through succession.

“That’s the reason why I wanted to continue being the governor of the province. And with our event today, I was overwhelmed by their support,”

Sagarbarría shared during an interview with Manila Standard Life after the inauguration. “It took us two months to prepare for it.”

The event featured a fly-by airshow with a confetti drop by Royhle Aviation Academy Inc., and a performance by Kuh Ledesma, who sang her hits including “Dito ba?” and “Ako ay Pilipino.”

Performers included the Silliman University Dance Troupe, Campus Choristers, Campus Band, and the Mariant Escaño Villegas Dance Company

The celebration continued with a concert and the Centennial Pyro Musical Competition at Freedom Park, featuring Kim Hewitt and Midnasty Band. Governor Sagarbarría highlighted the Capitol Building as an architectural marvel and a symbol of the province’s rich history and enduring spirit.

After the event at the Capitol Grounds, I asked the amiable governor about his main goals as the provincial leader. He said it’s healthcare and tourism.

“Under our leadership, Negros Oriental has seen impressive growth primarily because we were able to restore peace and order in the province.

Dumaguete is the ‘Province of Gentle People,’ so we are living up to that slogan,” Governor Chaco began.

“Statistically, we have been doing well since I became governor last year,” he continued. “In 2022, we had around 120,000 to 140,000 tourists. In 2023, that number increased to 143,000. Now, we’re almost hitting our target of 500,000 a year. In the first quarter alone, we reached

By Angelica Villanueva

PEOPLE may now have more reasons to visit Manila’s famed wall city, Intramuros as the government launched on June 10, the Centro de Turismo Intramuros, a new tourist hub designed to educate visitors about the city’s rich past and ignite interest, especially among the younger generation.

Located along Calle Arzobispo within the ruins of San Ignacio Church, the center features a museum packed with over 8,000 artifacts,

many from the existing Museo de Intramuros.

Through the efforts of the Office of the President and the Office of the First Lady and support from the Department of Tourism and Intramuros Administration, the exhibit aimed to take visitors on a captivating journey through Intramuros’ story, from its pre-colonial roots to its role as a Spanish colonial center, the devastation of World War II, and its ongoing revitalization efforts.

“The intention is to go back to our roots. Learn the history

144,000, marking a growth of 155 percent.”

“This goal is crucial for us because economically, like Bohol, they are thriving due to tourism,” he added.

The main driver of this growth, according to the governor, is peace and order. He has worked hard to restore the reputation of Negros Oriental after the incident involving Degamo’s ambush.

“It stigmatized Negros as being unsafe due to all the hearings, including Senate hearings, which dragged the

name of Negros Oriental through the mud. So, I had to rebrand the tourism sector back to being the original Negros Oriental—the province of Gentle People,” he explained.

To put Negros Oriental on the Philippine and world tourism map, his team has been organizing roadshows to showcase the province’s beauty and culture in 25 local government units (LGUs).

“We’ve been heavily focusing on tourism, and one of the impacts I believe you’ve heard about is our Negros Oriental roadshow. Aside from showcasing our local talents, we also bring in influencers from all over the Philippines. This significantly boosts the marketing of Negros Oriental because we want to highlight the beautiful sights in our LGUs,” Governor Sagarbarría stated, adding that these roadshows are funded out of his own pocket. “It’s just giving back because I was given the chance

to be governor, so we’ll try to boost the economy as much as we can.”

Governor Sagarbarría is proud of tourist attractions like the worldfamous Apo Island, a marine sanctuary where you can swim with turtles. Other tourist destinations in the province include the picturesque Manjuyod Sandbar, the enchanting Twin Lakes of Sibulan, Pulangbato Falls in Valencia, the Monkey Sanctuary, and the Kanlaon Rice Terraces, to name a few.

“We have similar potential to our neighboring provinces, although they have their unique set of tourism spots, and we have our own. We mostly focus on diving, beaches, resorts, and lesser-known tourism spots that lack marketing and promotion,” he stated.

Discussing the appeal of Dumaguete and Negros Oriental, Governor Sagarbarría highlighted the region’s unique charm and relaxed pace of life, contrasting it with the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

of Intramuros and be inspired by how it rose to the ashes… Now, with the ongoing efforts of the present administration, with Intramuros Administration as well, we’re hoping for a better future for Intramuros,” said lawyer Joan Padilla, Intramuros Administrator.

Beyond the museum, the center also boasts an indoor amphitheater, envisioned as a venue for events and activities, offering potential revenue for the Intramuros Administration.

On the other hand, Philippine Institute of Interior Designers John

“People who choose to stay here, including some from Manila, say they find Dumaguete and Negros Oriental charming because they don’t feel rushed. Mornings are leisurely with walks and drinks, unlike the hustle of Cebu or Manila. It’s a unique mix of both worlds,” he concluded.

Paolo Castro shared that the project’s design reflects the vision of First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, making it the “first stop” to get an overview of the entire Intramuros tour.

“That’s actually a special request of the First Lady. She wants the Filipino people to have a place where it’s interactive and to showcase to the world

The Centro de Turismo Intramuros showcases Intramuros’ rich history

Philippine Institute of Interior Designers President John Paolo Castro

A view of the Manjuyod Sandbar during low tide (Image from Negros Oriental Philippines FB Page)

The NHCP unveils a historical marker at the Negros Oriental Provincial Capitol building entrance to mark the 100th year of the structure

Governor Manuel ‘Chaco’ Sagarbarria (7th from right) and Senator Risa Hontiveros (6th from right) meet with the national media during the event

The Pulangbato Falls in Valencia gets its name from the natural reddish rocks in the area (Image from Dumaguete City Tourism Office FB Page)

The captivating Kabalin-an Pond is found near the Balinsasayo Twin Lakes