Manila Standard - 2024 June 13 - Thursday

Criminal POGO fronts

real threats — Gibo

By Vince Lopez and Darwin Amojelar

CRIMINALS posing as POGO hubs are national security concerns, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said as the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission reported some 300 offshore gaming operators are illegally operating in the country.

"The concern is that we should stop these syndicated criminal activities operating out of our base, which weaken our financial standing, our country ratings, [and] corrupt our society," Teodoro said. At the Lucky South 99 POGO compound in Porac, Pampanga, more alleged Chinese military uniforms were recovered – as well as sex toys and animals.

Cebu’s real ‘Mango Avenue’ is at The Mactan Newtown because the township’s Newtown Boulevard is lined with real mango trees. In 2010, almost 250 trees were planted along the township’s main avenue and today, the township celebrates the mangoes as Cebu’s main produce with the annual Cebu Mangoes Festival held every summer.

By Macon Ramos- Araneta

MEMBERS of the "Young Guns" in the House of Representatives have raised serious concerns about the escalating cost and potential waste of

By Maricel V. Cruz

By Charles Dantes, Macon Ramos-Araneta and Maricel Cruz

The country's foreign policy would remain committed to peace and national interest, President Marcos said during the vin d’honneur in Malacañang on Wednesday to mark the 126th celebration of Independence Day.

The President also underscored the country's support for the rule of law and a rules-based international order, aligned with UN principles.

“On many occasions, great trials have all the more strengthened our resolve and

unified our people because as I have said, ‘Filipinos do not yield',” he said.

"While the times may be different our struggles remain the same. Still, we continue to witness the true spirit of freedom in every Filipino who fights fairly in their day-to-day lives," he added.

Vice President Sara Duterte, for her part, dedicated her Independence Day message to the youth.

"Let us continue to be resilient toward establishing a youth-oriented nation and nationalist youth," Duterte said in Davao City.

"On Independence Day, we give importance not just to the sovereignty we

Number of Chinese ships in WPS now up to 146 — Navy

of Philippine Independence in Manila. Inset photos show Vice President Sara Duterte and House Speaker Martin Romualdez speaking at similar rites in Davao and Malolos, Bulacan. Revoli Cortez

By Vince Lopez

June 4 to June 10 in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Philippine Navy said on Wednesday. The Philippine Navy said it has observed more ships from China in various locations across the disputed international waters this past week.

Navy WPS Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad earlier reported 125 Chinese vessels, which the Navy monitored from May 28 to June 3. This marked a slight increase from the previous week’s count of 122. The updated list includes 16 vessels from the China Coast Guard (CCGVs), 22 from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), and 108 ships from the China Maritime Militia (CMMVs). The breakdown of the vessels across various strategic locations in the WPS is as follows: Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) - 4 CCGVs and 29 CMMVs; Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal) - 5 CCGVs, 8 PLAN ships, and 37 CMMVs; Pagasa Island (Thitu Island) - 1 CCGV, 1 PLAN ship, and 40 CMMVs; Kota Island (Loaita Island) – 1 CCGV, 1 PLAN ship; Likas Island (West

‘Young Guns’ air concern over costly Senate building

public funds related to the construction of the new Senate Building in Taguig City. These lawmakers are supporting the suspension of the project pending a comprehensive review.

The decision to suspend the construction came after a report from the Senate Committee on Accounts (CA), which Senator Alan Peter Cayetano currently chairs, pointed to the rising

House sends divorce bill to Senate

By Rio N. Araja

The mango trees at Newtown Boulevard in 2010 Locals and tourists enjoying the mango-picking activity in the township.

4Ps to include pregnant, lactating women

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday expanded the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) to include pregnant and lactating women.

In a meeting with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department

Criminal...

From A1

Continue inspection of the 46 buildings in the POGO hub yielded four more sets of camouflage uniforms with buttons bearing the initials PLA (the acronym for China’s People's Liberation Army) and one bearing the marks “airborne” as well as an alleged badge of a Chinese military sergeant.

Cruz said they also recovered a video where females were being asked to dance naked.

“They were selling it online so there’s sexual exploitation here,” he said.

PAOCC Usec. Gilbert Cruz said the 300 illegal POGOs continued to operate even as their licenses from

PH...

From A1

have won, but to commemorate the struggles we have overcome, are experiencing, and will continue to face," she added.

For his part, Speaker Martin Romualdez said the freedom Filipinos enjoy also means responsibility to fight poverty, corruption, and injustice.

"On this day, we not only commemorate their heroism but also accept the challenge our forefathers left," he said during the Independence Day rites at the historic Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan where

‘Young...

From A1

costs of the NSB project, with the projected cost of an additional P10 billion to complete the building.

Initially funded at P8.9 billion, the cost of the project has now ballooned to P13 billion, with an additional P10 billion required for completion, bringing the total to P23 billion. The dramatic increase in expenditure has raised serious concerns about the responsible use of taxpayer money.

1-Rider Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez underscored the importance of accountability in government spending.

“It is only prudent to scrutinize projects involving public funds. We owe it to our constituents to ensure that every peso is spent wisely and effectively,” he stated.

“This project is a prime example of why stringent checks and balances are essential. The significant cost overrun calls for a reassessment to protect our nation’s fiscal health,” Gutierrez added.

Another lawmaker, House Assistant Majority Leader and Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Jil Bongalon, stressed the need for transparency.

“It is crucial that we uphold public trust in all our infrastructure projects. Every centavo must be accounted for to prevent misuse of funds,” Bongalon said.

Amid concerns about the project's costs, Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales 1st District Rep. Jay Khonghun emphasized the necessity of a thorough estimation.

“Delaying the project for a comprehensive review is a responsible decision. We must address any concerns, and ensure the project aligns with the best interests of the Filipino people,” Khonghun said.

“Public infrastructure projects should reflect prudent financial management. We must halt this project until a clear and transparent review can guarantee that the funds are used appropriately and for the benefit of all Filipinos,” he added.

Assistant Majority Leader and La Union 1st District Rep. Paolo Ortega echoed these sentiments.

“Suspending the release of funds

of Health (DOH), and other agencies, the President approved the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) proposal to extend cash grants to these women to ensure their access to essential health services.

"Okay. Yes. Let’s do that. On the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, bring the mother, the family into the system. That’s really good,” Mr. Marcos said.

Pagcor have already expired.

“When they felt that their license won’t be renewed anymore due to violations they are committing, they decided not to reapply...These entities don’t want to be regulated,” Cruz said.

Pagcor chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco said based on their data, around 255 former POGOs are running illegally despite having their licenses revoked in September 2023 due to criminal activities.

Tengco said from 298 POGOs in 2023, the number went down to 43 active licenses at present.

“We found that many of those who have this license were not operating as overseas gaming. They used Pagcor's license for criminal activities, such as credit card fraud, invest-

the first democratic republic in Asia was born.

"Freedom is not only a privilege but a responsibility. We, as Filipinos in the modern era, have a duty to continue the fight for freedom—not only against the invaders, but against poverty, corruption, and injustice," Romualdez added.

Senate President Francis Escudero took to social media to deliver his Independence Day message, emphasizing the importance of remembering the sacrifices of the nation's heroes.

"The freedom we enjoy today is the result of their courage. May this inspire us to continue to aspire for a better future," he said.

is a necessary step to prevent potential issues and ensure the new Senate building project meets the highest standards of efficiency and accountability,” he stated.

Ortega added that “When public funds are misallocated, it undermines trust in our institutions and hampers our ability to address other critical needs. This situation demands immediate attention and corrective action.”

As for the Senate’s side, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday emphasized that the recent budgetary concerns surrounding the new Senate building (NSB) are part of an ongoing factual and independent review and should not give rise to unwarranted speculation.

“The goal is to have the best functional and iconic Senate building that will be a symbol of the democratic process of the will of the Filipino people, at the best quality at the right cost,” Cayetano said

This came about shortly after Senate President Francis Escudero ordered to suspend the construction of the NSB, citing concerns over escalating costs and the need for a comprehensive review.

Cayetano said a series of briefings with relevant stakeholders, including teams from former CA chairpersons Senator Nancy Binay and former Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, were conducted to provide a “clear view” on the matter.

This resulted in an executive summary of the initial review and recommendations which were presented to Escudero.

"These are not speculations, these are all official. We have reports and documents," he said.

“The start was good, but all those who saw the costs were surprised," he said.

Despite the concerns raised, Cayetano argued that the construction of the current phase of NSB should continue during the review process, and the third phase, which has not yet undergone procurement, may be delayed if necessary.

Cayetano, however, urged the public not to speculate. The senator gave assurance that his committee, along with a high-level coordination team, will independently continue their thorough review of the project.

The expanded 4Ps will now provide additional support alongside existing grants, which offer monthly stipends for children's education and health monitoring.

The President has tasked the DSWD and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) with finalizing the financial details to implement these adjustments.

ment fraud, cryptocurrency fraud, love match and love scam fraud,” he said.

To differentiate legitimate operators from illegal POGOs, Pagcor now refers to its overseas gaming operators as IGLs, or Internet Gaming Licensees, Tengco said.

Meanwhile, the Department of the Interior and Local Government said it is forming a task force to look into the POGO hub raided in Bamban, Tarlac to see if a mayor's permit was issued.

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. said POGOs would have a hard time operating for so long without a permit.

“Well, we are looking into the whole incident. I am asking for a report on how such a big complex can conduct these kinds of activities.

Number...

From A1

York Island) - 1 PLAN ship; Lawak Island (Nanshan Island) - 1 CCGV, 5 PLAN ships, 2 CMMVs; Panata Island (Loaita Cay) – 2 PLAN ships; and Sabina Shoal - 4 CCGVs, 4 PLAN ships

The Philippine Navy said it is continuing to monitor and report on these incursions.The presence of Chinese ships in these disputed waters has been a point of contention between China and the Philippines, with Manila asserting its sovereignty in its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone and Beijing relentless in its expansionist agenda.

A group of Filipino riders meanwhile called on China to abandon its illegal claims over the entire WPS, and appealed to other foreign countries to cease militarizing the already tense region.

The Kapatiran sa Dalawang Gulong (KAGULONG), Riders Pilipinas, and Partido Manggagawa (PM), made the call during its “free-

House...

From A1

The House of Representatives' website said the bill has been received by the Senate on June 11, 2024.

“The transmittal was in compliance with the request of Rep. Edcel C. Lagman, the principal author of the divorce bill, in a letter dated May 28, 2024 to (House Secretary General Reginald) Velasco asking him to immediately transmit the approved bill to the Senate pursuant to the unanimous directive of the House,” said Lagman, principal author of the bill.

In a statement, he said that the transmittal to the Senate “will not wait for the plenary action of the House when the sessions start on July 22, 2024 as previously announced by Velasco.”

Meanwhile, the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) chief, Persida Acosta, has expressed support for House Bill 9349 (Absolute Divorce Act), lauding members of the House of Representa-

Congress...

From A1

“Tomorrow, we will have a meeting, and of course, the priority legislative agenda will be discussed,” Romualdez told reporters on the sidelines of the 126th Independence Day celebration at Barasoain Church in Bulacan on Wednesday.

The House has passed the proposal to amend several of the restrictive economic provisions of the 1987 charter and the divorce bill, both of which remain pending in the Senate.

The 4Ps program currently provides P300 monthly per child for daycare and elementary students, P500 for junior high, and P700 for senior high, all contingent on school attendance. Additionally, households receive P750 per month if children aged 2 to 14 undergo growth monitoring, deworming, and attend family development sessions.

We are looking at all angles,” Abalos said.

For his part, Speaker Martin Romualdez warned POGO operators to comply with the law or face arrest. Romualdez said he was "open to hearing issues" concerning the gambling firms.

In February, a House panel approved a bill seeking to ban POGOs in the country, but it has yet to be tackled at the plenary.

The Makabayan bloc on Tuesday also filed a separate bill seeking to prohibit and criminalize offshore gaming operations in the country.

“There is a process. That will also go through the process, in the hearings. We will listen to all stakeholders about their position on the issue, and then we will weigh in on what we should do,” Romualdez said.

dom ride” activities during the celebration of 126th Philippine Independence Day.

Mounting calls against China's expansive claims over the South China Sea (SCS) and the WPS has spread around the globe.

"We do not want the conflict in the West Philippine Sea to escalate into a war due to territorial disputes and geopolitical tensions between powerful nations. We seek freedom, justice, and peace in the area for Filipinos and neighboring countries with territorial claims in these waters," according to KAGULONG Secretary General Don Pangan.

KAGULONG emphasized that demilitarization is crucial for easing tensions and preventing conflict in these waters. However, China, the US, and other military powers like France, the UK, Australia, and Japan must commit to this effort to avoid military confrontations.

The group stressed the importance of transforming the region into a zone of peace and neutrality, rather than a battleground for superpowers.

Vito Barcelo

tives and Senate backing the measure.

The bill "seeks to provide absolute divorce as a legal remedy for irreparably broken marriages under specific grounds and judicial processes with the goal of sparing children from the emotional strain of parental dispute and allowing divorced individuals to remarry."

According to Acosta, divorce could be the answer to many dysfunctional or broken families.

She called on the senators strongly opposing divorce to look into the sorry plight of the children whose parents are suffering from marital problems.

"One may not support the bill because one has a happy, loving, and normal family. What about those who have dysfunctional families?” Acosta asked.

Should the bill be enacted into law, she vowed to extend legal assistance to those who would apply for divorce.

Acosta has since said she is hoping there would be a mandatory provision allowing PAO to handle divorce cases.

The Speaker said the cooperation between the House and the Senate is crucial for the successful implementation of the administration's programs and reforms. He noted that while the House has already accomplished significant legislative milestones, it is essential to ensure that both chambers are aligned in their objectives. The legislature is currently in recess after adjourning the second regular session of the 19th Congress last May 22. It will resume for the third regular session on July 22, during which President Marcos will deliver his third SONA.

Papal Nuncio appeals for restraint to avoid ‘catastrophe’

By Charles Dantes

REVEREND Charles Brown, the papal nuncio to the Philippines, emphasized the importance of "patient, serious dialogue" and respect for international law to avoid a "catastrophe of escalation" during the traditional Independence Day reception inside Malacañang.

Brown, also the dean of the diplomatic corps, made his remarks before an audience of government officials and diplomats, including Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian.

“In this situation, if we want to make a world of safety and prosperity for our children, the way forward for all of us is the same path that has brought the hope of peace to the people of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), and that is the path of dialogue. Patient, serious, dialogue,” he stated.

“Together with a respect for international law and a respect for genuine diversity, engaging with others, in particular with those with whom we profoundly disagree, is the surest way of avoiding the catastrophe of escalation,” Brown added.

Brown likened the ongoing geopolitical tensions between states in the Indo-Pacific region to the Cold War in the 1960s.

“When President (Diosdado) Macapagal gave his speech in June of 1962 proposing the change of the date of the Independence Day of the Philippines, the world was experiencing dangerous polarization, which indeed came to a crisis point only a few months later in October of that year,” said Brown.

“Regrettably, our geopolitical situation in 2024 is not so different. The end of history did not arrive in the 1990s. History has continued,” he stated

While he did not mention any countries, his comments come amid rising tensions between the Philippines and China over the West Philippine Sea.

Gov’t to send witnesses to testify in Teves case

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) bared that former and current government officials are set to testify in the ongoing extradition hearings against former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves, Jr. in Timor-Leste. DOJ Undersecretary Raul Vasquez also said the witnesses include former Supreme Court associate justice Francis Jardeleza, Bureau of Corrections Director General Pio Gregorio Catapang, Jr., National Amnesty Commission Chairperson Leah Tanodra-Armamento and Presidential Human Rights Committee Undersecretary Nonoy Catura. The DOJ disclosed its witnesses following the revelation of lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, that aside from himself, former Commission on Human Rights commissioner Wilhelm Soriano and former Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo would testify for Teves. Vasquez, quoted by ABS-CBN News, said the witnesses would testify on the allegations of poor human rights protection in the Philippines, lack of fair and impartial trials, safety threats, and torture fears. “ “At the end of the day, it is fair and it is an impartial trial by a fair and impartial judge, and that is our justice system… Our Constitution is so proaccused we have rights of the accused under the Bill of Rights and it is high time for Teves to face the charges against him and not use the media to prove his innocence,” Vasquez said. Rey Requejo

IN BRIEF

Cops nab 5 suspects, seize P1m drugs

POLICE have arrested five high-value targets and seized over P1 million worth of illegal drugs in two separate anti-narcotics operations in Makati City and Quezon City on Tuesday.

A composite team from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), Quezon City Police District (QCPD), and its Police Substation in Talipapa arrested John Rey Aceron, 34, and Venancio Campania Obcianal, 31, during a buy-bust operation along Quirino Highway in Barangay Balonbato, Quezon City.

Seized from the suspects were 100 grams of shabu worth P680,000 and the money used in the entrapment. The suspects, who are now detained at the QCPD detention center, will be charged with violation of Republic Act 9165 otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, while the seized drugs were turned over to the district’s Crime Laboratory Office for chemical analysis. Arrested in Makati were Rocky Silvestre Abejo, also known as “Red Horse,” 34; Enrico Teng Moralida, also known as “Tarek,” 23, and Kreyzann Nuas Del Rosario, also known as “Bebang,” 39, all residents of Barangay Guadalupe.

At 6:50 p.m. on Wednesday, the Makati City Police Station and its Police Substation 6 conducted the entrapment along Bernardino Street in Barangay Guadalupe Viejo. A police officer acted as a poser-buyer and was able to purchase a plastic sachet containing shabu from the suspects. Joel E. Zurbano

NIA: More dams vs. water shortage

THE National Irrigation Administration (NIA) on Wednesday said the construction of more dams could address the shortage of water for domestic and irrigation purposes. At the Huntahan media forum in Quezon City, NIA chief Eduardo Guillen cited that 40 percent of the agricultural sector has a problem on irrigation and potable water. “We are now discussing matters with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to build more dams as a long-term solution,” he said. He said the DPWH could afford infrastructure projects worth of billions of pesos, but the NIA has a limited budget allocation to do so. He said NIA is now building 1,800 units of solar pump irrigation projects. The NIA administrator lamented that the Senate slashed the agency’s budget in 2024, preventing it to put up more irrigation dams. Rio N. Araja

Remulla says to Teves: Face murder charges

By Rey E. Requejo

DEPARTMENT of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Wednesday challenged the camp of former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves, Jr. to stop resorting to all sorts of delaying tactics, and instead just face the murder charges filed against him before the Philippine courts.

“Instead of dilly-dallying things, Teves should just face the court of law and answer the charges fair and square,” Remulla said.

Remulla also strongly advised lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, the legal counsel of Teves to act accordingly and avoid making baseless pronouncements, which malign the integrity of the Philippine justice system.

The DOJ chief made the statement

in response to a circulating letter allegedly coming from Teves seeking the intervention of the United Nations, Amnesty International, other human rights groups and even Pope Francis claiming that he is being politically persecuted and fears for his life.

Remulla dismissed these allegations as mere ploys of the Teves camp to evade justice. He said the fugitive politician was trying to paint himself as a

By Maricel V. Cruz

DEPUTY Minority Leader and Basilan

Rep. Mujiv Hataman has called on the government to increase the financial subsidy to the country’s three million farmers with the planned reduction of the tariff on rice from 35 percent to 15 percent to bring down the price of rice to P29 a kilo.

Hataman, a former governor of the now-defunct ARMM, said that his office is set to file a bill proposing an enhanced protection and more subsidies for Filipino farmers.

He noted that with farmgate prices of palay averaging at P25.21 in February of this year, Filipino rice farmers cannot stand against the price of imported rice in the market once the tariff reduction takes place.

“With this, I call on the government to increase financial subsidies to our rice farmers. ..We are an agricultural country

with a slowly dwindling farmer population. We cannot just rely on rice imports,” he added.

He also said NFA should only buy from local farmers in the event that it reacquires its mandate to offer cheaper rice when amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law are enacted into law.

The Basilan lawmaker asked the administration of President Bongbong Marcos to include more farmers in its financial assistance programs such as those under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), like the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) and the Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP).

Hataman said the DA has a list of qualified farmers for government subsidies that it can use to target deserving beneficiaries in other social welfare programs of the government.

victim when the real victims were the ones who died by murder.

“Teves is a designated terrorist and fugitive from justice. He is also facing grave charges such as multiple murder and all of that is a reality Topacio and his client should face. Until then, we cannot recognize anything they say unless they present themselves in court,” Remulla stressed.

The DOJ reassured that the Philippine government has guaranteed Teves’ safety upon his return. He also urged both the expelled lawmaker and his legal team to provide concrete evidence his life was in danger.

“Prove us wrong that you are not merely employing tactics intended to delay or circumvent the Rule of Law by presenting ‘real’ and ‘existing’ proof that Teves’ life is in danger, otherwise, submit yourselves to Philippine jurisdiction,” Remulla said, addressing Topacio.

MMDA to enforce law on PUVs once guidelines are in

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will start apprehending unconsolidated jeepneys once the agency receives the official guidelines from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“We have not yet received any guidelines from LTFRB regarding unconsolidated jeepneys,” said MMDA chief information officer Sharon Gentalian.

The MMDA stated that the LTFRB will be the one to set the guidelines on the apprehension of unconsolidated jeepneys, which are already considered colorum vehicles as they no longer have the provisional authority to ply their routes after the April 30 consolidation deadline lapsed.

LTFRB officials said they will no longer allow to operate jeepneys that did not consolidate into cooperatives under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program.

Latest data from the agency showed that 61% of the 49,593 jeepney units in Metro Manila have consolidated.

The Department of Transportation has stated that proposals from lawmakers to give unconsolidated jeepneys one more year to comply with the government’s requirement are impossible.

Secretary Jaime Bautista assured that the public utility vehicle (PUV) capacity is sufficient to cater passengers a month after the consolidation deadline lapsed

He said there are enough PUVs operating in Metro Manila and other cities, adding that 80% of operators and drivers have consolidated into cooperatives or corporations as part of the program.

“Overall, [the report of the LTFRB] is that we have enough capacity.”

RIZAL AND INDEPENDENCE DAY. Members of the Gran Logia Soberana Del Archipelago Filipino join the celebration of the 126th Year of Independence by o ering owers to the Shrine of Gat Jose Rizal in Luneta Park.

IN BRIEF

Caloocan gov’t rolls out grand health caravan

A TOTAL of 829 residents have received free health services from the Grand Health Caravan conducted by the Caloocan City government in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), Philhealth, the Philippine Red Cross, and various other health organizations. Among the services offered at the said health caravan are free consultations, breast and cervical cancer screening, HIV testing, dental services, and free assistance in Philhealth registration.

Mayor Dale Gonzalo Malapitan thanked the caravan participants, adding that health programs will continue to be his priority, especially those which would provide free and accessible assistance to his needy constituents. Jun David

Firm holds workshop for deaf learners

A BATAAN-based power firm, in partnership with a local Rotary Club, reached out to hearing-impaired students and their mothers in Mariveles town in a bid to help them cope with the special challenges confronting them.

N Power Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD) Project Saysay targeted 80 deaf students from various schools in Mariveles. The students from Antonio G. Llamas Elementary School, Mariveles National High School Poblacion, Mariveles National High School Cabcaben, and Cabcaben Elementary School with their parents gathered together for an interactive activity including creative and sign language workshop in a restaurant in Mariveles.

The students were accompanied by their teachers.

Ilah Cornejo of the Rotary Club of Mariveles facilitated the sign language workshop. Butch Gunio

DSWD to launch e-card project in W. Visayas

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Western Visayas is set to launch in July an electronic card (e-card) aimed at alleviating poverty and improving access to nutritious food for the region’s poorest families. The program, targeting 30,000 impoverished families in Negros Occidental, marks the initial phase of a broader effort to support vulnerable communities across the region.

DSWD Western Visayas director Carmelo Nochete highlighted the significance of Negros Occidental in the program’s implementation.

“Negros Occidental has the highest number of impoverished families in the region, which is why they are the priority for this program,” Nochete explained. “Our goal is to ease the burden of poverty and ensure families have access to nutritious food.”

Under the program, selected beneficiaries will receive the e-cards loaded with P3,000 each month. The card can be used to purchase a variety of nutritious foods such as vegetables, protein, and fruits from accredited retailers, including Kadiwa stores and other DSWD-approved grocery outlets. Caloy Lozada

Bacolod City logs first death due to whooping cough

BACOLOD City in Negros Occidental has reported its first death due to pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough.

The victim, a six-year-old child from Barangay Villamonte, succumbed to the illness despite having been vaccinated.

According to the Bacolod City Health Office (BCHO), the young victim had received the pertussis vaccine, but suffered from underlying health conditions that increased his vulnerability to the disease.

Investigation revealed that the boy has interactions with unvaccinated individuals, which likely contributed to the infection.

“Unvaccinated individuals pose a significant risk, especially to children with pre-existing health issues,” according to Grace Tan, chief of the Environmental Sanitation Division of the Health Office. “They can easily transmit infections like pertussis to those who are most vulnerable.”

Bacolod City has logged 16 confirmed cases of pertussis, with Barangay Taculing recording the highest number of cases at three, and Barangays Tangub, Villamonte, and Vista Alegre each reporting two cases.

The rising numbers have spurred the Bacolod City government into action, with efforts underway to procure more vaccines to curb the spread of the disease. We are in the process of purchasing additional vaccines to reduce the incidence of this illness,” Tan said. “Our vaccine stocks have been depleted due to the sudden increase in cases, and we haven’t received new supplies from the Department of Health (DOH) for three months.” Caloy Lozada

DPWH asks Congress to prioritize funds release for big-ticket projects

126 prisoners regain freedom on Independence Day

INDEPENDENCE Day could not be more meaningful for 126 prisoners who regained their freedom as the country celebrated yesterday its 126th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence. In a ceremony organized by the Department of Justice (DOJ)and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), the 126 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) received their release papers.

DOJ Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez and BuCor director general Gregorio Catapang, Jr. led the ceremony for the release of the inmates.

Themed as “Mga Repormasyong Binigay, Natutuna’y Kaalaman Tungo sa Pagbabagong Buhay”, the activity aimed to honor the resilience and reformation of the PDLs in the “face of adversity in preparation for their reintegration into society.”

According to Gutierrez, the event also seeks to serve as a constant reminder to other prisoners that there is a second shot at life after positive transformation of oneself.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla lauded Catapang for the “very timely initiative to join the nation’s observance of the Philippine Independence through significant projects that will be highly beneficial to society.”

“My sincerest appreciation to the hard work and dedication of Director Catapang for always making a positive impact to our corrections system,” Remulla said.

“You overcame the challenges and obstacles to become the better person you are today, may you continue to let your light shine as you embrace life outside prison to serve as an inspiration for the positive transformation of others,” Remulla said in

his message to the newly released PDLs, Meanwhile, the Public Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the Ateneo Legal Services Center (ALSC), offered free legal services to the PDLs at the New Bilibid Prisons. In conjunction with the celebration of Independence Day, a legal aid caravan was held in the various prison facilities and penal farms nationwide, namely, San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm (SRPPF), Iwahig PPF, Sablayan PPF, Davao PPF, Leyte Regional Prison Farm (LRPF) and the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City.

Lawyers from PAO were deployed in the different prison farms to extend free legal services to the PDLs which include legal advice/consultation, legal representation and referral to PAO offices. Rey Requejo

By Vito Barcelo

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has urged Congress to prioritize the release of funds for the construction of numerous big-ticket infrastructure projects to ensure the speedy implementation of the department’s programs and projects designed to hasten national economic development.

DPWH Undersecretary Emil Sadain said infrastructure development was one of the Marcos administration’s priority areas involving significant infrastructure projects, including new roads, schools, and hospitals, as well as the protection and promotion of the welfare of the poor and marginalized sectors of society.

The ongoing construction of 15 foreign assisted infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs) being implemented by the DPWH is on track, set for completion by end-2024 and 2025, while the implementation of detailed engineering design (DED) of other multiple big-ticket projects are due for completion in the following year.

Sadain also said the implementation of numerous infrastructure projects in the country creates thousands of jobs for the local workforce.

Among the on-going DPWH projects worth P4.84 trillion are expected to be completed before end-2024 and mid2025, while another 27 mega projects amounting to P869.69 billion are in the pipeline designed to boost the national economy in the coming years, the DPWH said.

Sadain also said of the 90 projects for completion in 2023 and beyond, 37 are already under construction.

Some of the projects undergoing detailed engineering design are the Metro Manila Bridges Project; Cebu-Mactan Bridge and Coastal Road; New Manila International Airport; and the Virology Science and Technology Institute of the Philippines.

primary mobile clinic

Iloilo set to boost healthcare services with first-ever

By Caloy Lozada

THE Iloilo provincial government is set to receive its first-ever primary mobile health clinic from the Department of Health (DOH), bringing essential medical services accessible for underserved communities.

The innovative mobile clinic is meant to boost the provincial government’s healthcare and medical services that could reach even the most remote areas of the province.

Dr. Maria Socorro Quiñon, head of the Provincial Health Office (PHO), confirmed that the mobile health clinic is expected to arrive in Iloilo on June 30 this year.

“We are just waiting for the deed of donation and some final documentation

before we can officially receive the clinic,” Quiñon said.

Equipped with state-of-the-art medical tools, the mobile clinic is equipped with an X-ray machine, laboratory instruments, and ultrasound instruments.

It will be staffed by a team of doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals who will travel across the province deliver essential healthcare services directly to those who have difficulty accessing hospitals.

“Our mission at the Provincial Health Office is to ensure that all Ilonggos receive adequate medical services, especially those who are hard to reach and in dire need,” Quiñon emphasized.

“This mobile clinic will play a crucial role in preventing and managing diseases by making healthcare more accessible.”

INDEPENDENCE DAY JOB FAIR. Job seekers take their chances in finding employment via a job fair at SM City Manila, held in conjunction with the 126th Independence Day celebration. Norman Cruz

KAPIHAN FORUM. Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) director-general Ricardo De Leon, answer questions from the media regarding the West Philippine Sea, the protection of Philippine aquatic and fishery resources, and other national security issues during the weekly Kapihan sa Manila Bay. Norman Cruz

FREEDOM REGAINED. Some of the 126 inmates of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City wave as they walk out of the jail facility while the entire nation celebrates its 126th Independence Day. Justice Undersecretary

Margarita Gutierrez handed over the release papers, along with a grooming kit, gratuity, and transportation allowance to the released prisoners, witnessed by Bureau of Corrections chief Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. Joseph Muego

OPINION

OA and overkill

IN JUST a few days, several events came, bringing portents of a “bagong luma” order -- the resurrection of the old by its new re-incarnation.

When the logo for Bagong Pilipinas was unveiled earlier this year, this writer and others immediately drew parallelism to the Marcos Sr. “Bagong Lipunan,” the catchword used by the dictator to describe the martial law regime that promised a new domestic order.

Now, still giddy over the overwhelming vote received in 2022, and perhaps hoping sloganeering and bountiful ayuda will trump all the dissatisfaction gathered through the past two years, the administration comes up with an anthem and oath, and require government offices and public schools to sing this after the Lupang Hinirang and Panatang Makabayan through Memorandum Circular 52.

For senior citizens who experienced the early days of martial law, a chilling effect is felt. What is the present administration of Marcos Jr. up to?

For many others reeling from “walang kamatayang” inflation and the depreciation of their standards of living, the decibels of opposition are now stoked by illthought sloganeering made imperative which somehow mocks the realities on the ground.

“Ano ang pinagbago?” many ask.

A “yellow” friend immediately sent a text message, which was forwarded to me by a recipient who no longer classifies himself with the political color, and it says:

“Ano ang nagbago? Adik nagkalat; presyo’y sumisipa. Bigas na pangakong bente kada kilo, ngayon ay sisenta; sa ibang bansa pa galing. Kurakot kaliwa’t kanan; lahat na’y pinagkakitaan.

“Nabudol nung halalan, sa gintong pangako at kasaysayang binago. Ito ba ang pagbabago?”

I will cut it short, as the call to action isn’t something I would endorse.

These and many other reactions on social media just goes to show that illconceived sloganeering that masks true reality can be very easily corrupted. In the industry, we say “madaling baluktutin.”

Like LOVE the Philippines, best to get back to the drawing board. Or even yet, just keep quiet and work, work, work, with proper plans and direction, instead of words, words, and more words. ***

The grand coming-out party for Bagong Pilipinas followed a grand palabas, a virtual invasion of Duterte turf, when our leaders, with a back-up chorus of 168 or so congressmen from different regions swooped down on Davao del Norte, bringing oodles and oodles of “ayuda.”

Sobrang OA, the apolitical residents whose governor was suspended and resuspended observed.

From the people, back to the people, since in the Ayuda Republic, everything

comes from public funds anyway.

But what is this about the invasion by 168 of the representatives of the people, that elicited observations that the Batasan had a quorum in Davao?

Oh well, each supposedly got a promise of “7-7-7” for their districts, just for being part of the hallelujah chorus.

Seven million each for three kinds of “ayuda” from three departments of government to which Congress parked the funds in the 2024 budget.

Again, we ask: “ano ang pagbabago?”

Soft pork by the barrels, as hard pork has been sliced thinly.

Soft pork is ayuda, best used in aid of re-election; hard pork is infrastructure projects, where the “tongpats,” better yet, “kaltas” have gone many times over the usual.

***

Then, in the wee hours of Monday morning, troops swooped down upon the vicinity of the Davao International Airport, looking for the “Appointed Son” of his God who has been in hiding for months since both houses of Congress and the DOJ ordered his arrest.

The decibels of opposition are now stoked by ill-thought sloganeering made imperative which somehow mocks the realities on the ground

The contingent of troops came from other places, from Gen San and Misamis, with air support from drones and helicopters, not even from the newlyinstalled SAF troopers that two weeks ago replaced the entire police force of the southern city, Mindanao’s biggest.

Not finding the elusive “son” they arrested three farmers in the vicinity, for carrying “deadly weapons” which were their bolos used in cultivating the soil.

All that for nothing, with our enforcers getting egg splashed all over their faces.

OA and overkill na, palpak pa!

***

Then comes newly-elected Senate President Chiz Escudero bewailing how it is OA to spend P23 billion for a new “iconic” Senate building, after the cost ballooned from an original P8 billion pesos.

Set side by side with the hardships people experience these days, P23 billion for a new building seems over the top indeed.

I still cannot understand why the HoR and the “august” Senate cannot house themselves in the same compound in Commonwealth Hills, as envisioned by a former Senate president who became president, Manuel Luis Quezon.

THE arrest of those four PNP personnel last week for their brazen daylight kidnapping of four foreigners in police uniforms in Pasay City was one of the most shocking I have seen in my years of police service.

I know there were police personnel getting involved in serious criminal activities before but never the way this case was executed in broad daylight for everyone to witness. What is going on in the PNP?

This single display has completely erased all well-earned trophy points by the PNP accumulated over many months of hard work.

Hopefully, those four PNP personnel involved which included a Police Major and senior Non-commissioned Officers are really just the few bad eggs in the organization as the PNP brass will surely be saying.

But when crimes like this are committed so brazenly in the capital city, it could be a symptom of a terrible malady that needs serious attention. It could be a malignant disease that needs to be excised fast. We can always attempt to dissect and analyze what is wrong and attempt to prescribe remedies, but if it is some kind of an insidious cancer, it will be hard to expunge.

The way this crime was executed is like those countries whose lawless elements have gotten the better of law enforcement agencies.

There are metropolitan areas around

Handling crimes

the world where criminals could rob, kill, and kidnap people without fear even in the presence of the police.

Of course, we are still far from being like Haiti wherein homicide and kidnapping rates per 100,000 population are astronomical but if we do not move aggressively to correct the situation we could get there very easily.

There seems to be not enough outrage from our public officials to finally stop POGO operations before they bring us down

Look at those torture chambers of the raided POGO establishment in Porac, Pampanga.

Who would have thought such could be happening today?

Our country has become the center of human trafficking, money laundering and financial scams in the region.

A not so enviable a position and it is giving the country a big black eye.

Yet, there seems to be not enough outrage from our public officials to finally stop POGO operations before they bring us down.

Even China has been telling us to do

P23b for the new Senate building

‘SURPRISED’ and ‘shocked’ were the words uttered by newly installed Senate President Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero before officials and staff of the upper chamber of Congress recently after discovering the ongoing construction of the institution’s new office in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig would cost a whopping P23 billion.

The original estimate? It was P8.9 billion, then later climbed to P13 billion.

Now, at the rate construction and other costs are piling up, it is estimated to reach an astronomical P23 billion, perhaps in keeping with the ultramodern and luxurious surroundings of BGC.

Escudero aptly described it in the vernacular: “Parang OA” or overacting.

“In my view, this leaves a bad taste in most people’s mouths, especially in the middle of an economic crisis and pov-

erty that many of our countrymen see,” he said. Hence, the Senate President wants to review the budget for the News Senate Building.

—“—

What is clear is that good laws emanate from sound and sober thinking and lucid analyses of challenges we face as a nation

He has therefore directed Senator Alan Cayetano, head of the Senate committee on accounts, to suspend the payments and construction of the NSB pending a review.

Escudero clarified he was not saying there was any irregularity or anything questionable with the amount requested for the NSB’s construction: “It’s not questionable. I just find it excessive” to spend P23 billion for just one office. Quite apart from the escalating cost of the new Senate building, other issues have been raised against it. One, the contruction of the Senate building in a high-end commercial and

IN THE heart of Davao del Norte, a historic event unfolded, orchestrated by Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and the Marcos administration’s Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF).

Amidst the fervent legacy of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s stronghold, a new chapter of hope and progress was written, touching the lives of 250,000 residents over a mere two days.

With a staggering P913 million worth of cash assistance and government services, this initiative marks not just an event, but a beacon of transformative change for the Philippines.

Romualdez, representing President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., at the Davao Del Norte Sports and Tourism Center, was accompanied by an assembly of 166 members of the House Representatives, including former President and current Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. His words resonated with the palpable relief and gratitude of the people, “Lubos po ang ating galak sa dami ng mamamayang na-serbisyuhan ng Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair na hatid ng ating mahal na Pangulong Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. sa Davao del Norte. Damang-dama ng ating mga mamamayan ang tulong at kalinga ng ating pamahalaan.”

The BPSF’s achievement in Davao del Norte is a testament to its expansive reach and profound impact, having already touched over two million lives across the nation.

This 19th installment of the Service Caravan, envisioned to visit all 82 provinces, stands as a monumental effort to bridge the gap between the government and its people, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind.

The significance of the BPSF cannot be overstated.

It is not merely a distribution of aid; it is an embodiment of the government’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens.

From economic relief to essential serv-

away with POGO but all is quiet in the Western Front as they say.

No one probably wants to be the one to raise the sword that would slay the goose that lays the golden eggs.

Ever since I can remember, every Chief, PNP that comes along would always report crime volume is going down under his watch.

I have seldom come across a year’s crime rate report that has gone up.

Yet if we watch TV, read the newspapers and listen to the radio, we hear of many serious crimes being committed every day. What we are being told and what is happening therefore do not seem to match. Crime, just like any other human en-

residential enclave such as BGC reflects skewed priorities amid the urgent need to utilize scarce resources to boost the overall economy through infrastructure development and the efficient delivery of vital social servuecs such as health and education to the poor and disadvantaged sectors. Why build an expensive building complete with state-of-the-art facilities and furnishings instead of a modest one that’s adequate for 24 senators, officials and staff?

Two, why build a separate building for the Senate at all?

Why not build a structure that would accommodate both chambers of Congress to facilitate and enhance interchamber dialogue, consultation and cooperation, particularly when it comes to reconciling differing opinions on contentious political, economic and social issues and concerns?

Perhaps we need to remind our lawmakers their job is to craft laws that will lead to political stability, sustained economic growth and social concord. Will a new Senate building costing P23 billion lead to better and more responsive laws?

Maybe. Or maybe not.

What is clear is that good laws emanate from sound and sober thinking and lucid analyses of challenges we face as a nation, not necessarily from a spanking new building that would cost taxpayers an arm and a leg.

Romualdez’s BPSF brings aid, unity to Davao del Norte

ices, the BPSF addresses a spectrum of needs, fostering a sense of community and shared progress.

From an economic perspective, the infusion of cash assistance into local economies stimulates growth, supports small businesses, and alleviates poverty.

The BPSF’s focus on direct benefits ensures that assistance reaches those who need it most, circumventing bureaucratic delays and corruption.

—“—

This 19th installment of the Service Caravan, envisioned to visit all 82 provinces, stands as a monumental effort to bridge the gap between the government and its people

This approach not only enhances trust in the government but also empowers individuals to uplift themselves and their communities. Socially, the BPSF reinforces the fabric of society by providing critical services such as healthcare, education, and legal assistance. These services are vital in remote and underserved areas where access to basic amenities is limited.

By bringing these services directly to the people, the BPSF mitigates disparities and promotes equality, ensuring that every Filipino has the opportunity to lead a dignified life. Politically, the BPSF represents a strategic initiative to solidify support for the current administration while honoring the legacy of past leaders like Duterte.

deavor, evolves and policing must therefore also change with it. Policing is certainly so different now compared to when my generation started in the service. We now hear of cyber and transnational crimes. The shenanigans for instance that go with POGO operations are all transnational crimes which for a police station like Porac, Pampanga can be difficult and complicated to investigate. Furthermore, there is now a slow changing of the guards in the PNP.

Very soon, there will be no more Philippine Military Academy graduates in its Officers Corps which can happen as early as 2026.

It demonstrates a continuity of care and a unified effort to address the nation’s challenges. The presence of Romualdez and other prominent figures underscores the administration’s dedication to this mission, reinforcing the notion that government officials are not distant policymakers but active participants in the welfare of the populace.

To amplify the benefits of the BPSF, it is crucial to implement several recommendations.

Firstly, continuous monitoring and evaluation of the program’s impact will ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively.

Data-driven insights can guide future initiatives, allowing for adjustments and improvements tailored to specific regional needs.

Secondly, expanding partnerships with local governments and non-governmental organizations can enhance the reach and sustainability of the BPSF. Local entities possess a deep understanding of their communities and can provide valuable support in identifying and addressing unique challenges. Lastly, increasing public awareness and engagement is essential.

Educational campaigns can inform citizens about the services available to them and encourage participation. By fostering a culture of civic responsibility and mutual aid, the BPSF can cultivate a more resilient and cohesive society.

In the shadow of Davao del Norte’s past, the BPSF shines as a symbol of hope and progress.

Under the leadership of Romualdez and the unwavering support of President Marcos, Jr., the program has the potential to transform lives and redefine governance.

As the Service Caravan continues its journey across the archipelago, it carries with it the promise of a brighter, more inclusive future for all Filipinos.

By then, the bulk of the PNP Officer Corps will come from the PNPA. And when that happens, a new concept of command culture will come into play which will have a profound effect on law enforcement in the country. We would be seeing a different approach in the way the PNP as an organization is controlled and led by graduates of the PNPA. And although some consider the PNPA a clone of PMA, graduates coming from that institution have different upbringing which will result in a profound change in Philippine policing. We can only hope these changes will be for the better for the sake of the society.

UN probe accuses Israel, Hamas of war crimes

GENEVA – A UN investigation concluded on Wednesday that Israel has committed crimes against humanity during the war in Gaza, including that of “extermination,” while saying Israeli and Palestinian armed groups have both committed war crimes.

The independent Commission of Inquiry’s report is the United Nations’ first in-depth investigation into the events of the war that erupted on Oct. 7. Meanwhile, the Israeli military said successive rocket barrages were fired from Lebanon into northern Is-

Notice of the DEED OF SELFADJUDICATION BY THE SOLE HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF MILA DEYSOLONG AGUILAR who died last October 13, 2023 has been executed on June 7, 2024, and entered as per Doc. No. 43, Page No. 10, Book No. XXI, Series of 2024 of the notarial registry of Atty. Michael Joseph C. Capinpin, a notary public for and in the Quezon City

rael Wednesday, after an Israeli strike killed a senior Hezbollah commander in south Lebanon the previous day.

Lebanese militant group Hezbollah has traded near-daily cross-border fire with the Israeli army since its Palestinian ally Hamas attacked southern Israel

on October 7, triggering war in Gaza.

“A short while ago, approximately 90 projectiles were identified crossing from Lebanon,” the Israeli military said in a statement, adding that several were intercepted but others struck inside Israel sparking fires in parts of the north.

As temperatures have soared in recent days, the exchanges of fire have sparked multiple brush fires on both sides of the border.

The initial barrage was followed by a second of around 70 projectiles a short

time later, the military said.

Israel’s Magen David Adom emergency medical service said there were no immediate reports of any casualties.

The Commission found that Israel had committed war crimes, crimes against humanity and violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

The report noted “a widespread or systematic attack directed against the civilian population in Gaza.”

“The commission found that the crimes against humanity of extermina-

tion; murder; gender persecution targeting Palestinian men and boys; forcible transfer; and torture and inhuman and cruel treatment were committed,” it added.

Israel rejected the conclusions by accusing the UN commission of “systematic anti-Israeli discrimination”.

The Gaza war broke out after Hamas’s unprecedented Oct. 7 attack resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

Walter T. Young in Quezon City, Metro

Kyiv hopes Russia will attend 2nd Ukraine peace summit

GENEVA – Ahead of the first summit on peace in Ukraine, Kyiv said it wanted Russia to attend a second summit, to receive an internationally agreed roadmap towards ending the conflict. Moscow said it had no interest in joining this weekend’s meeting and so was not invited by hosts Switzerland, while Ukraine wants to get some concrete outcomes from the meeting to take forward to a second summit.

Andriy Yermak, the head of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s office, said the “bad experience” of previous negotiation formats involving Moscow, prior to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, meant that the end to the war needed to be

built on a broad platform of support from the outset -- and be rooted in international law.

“For the second summit, we will be working with all colleagues, with all countries who will be interested to be involved,” Yermak told European media organizations, via video link from Berlin.

“We are planning to prepare together the joint plan which will be supported by all these responsible countries. And we’re looking for the possibility, in the second summit, to invite a representative of Russia, and together present this joint plan.”

A perspective backed by “100 or more countries” drawn from every continent, rather than just Ukraine’s position, “will be a real plan which

Pope Francis to weigh in on ethical AI at G7 summit

VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis will address G7 leaders on Friday on artificial intelligence, an unprecedented appearance that reflects the Vatican’s growing interest in the new technology, its risks and rewards.

The 87-year-old will become the first head of the Catholic Church to address a G7 summit when he speaks on the second day of the Puglia meeting, to an audience including US President Joe Biden and France’s Emmanuel Macron.

The aging head of a 2,000-yearold institution is not perhaps the most obvious candidate to make a presentation on cutting-edge technology, but the pontiff sees AI as a key challenge for humanity.

“The Church always looks to

humans as the center of its mission,” said Paolo Benanti, a Franciscan university professor and member of the UN’s AI advisory body, who directly advises the pope.

“From this perspective it is clear the AI that interests the Church is not the technical tool, but how the tool can impact on the life of man,” he told AFP.

AI was the theme of the Church’s World Day of Peace on Jan. 1, for which the pontiff published a six-page document.

In it, he welcomed advances in science and technology that have reduced human suffering -- and Benanti said AI could act as a “multiplier,” boosting everything from medical research to economic and social wellbeing.AFP

will be very difficult to dispute... a real road map how to stop this war and how to settle the crisis.”

On Monday, Swiss President Viola Amherd said the summit aimed to find paths towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine, based on international law, and define a framework for involving both warring parties in a future peace process.

More than 160 countries and international organizations were invited by Switzerland to the two-day summit at the Burgenstock resort complex, with more than 90 confirmations received so far.

Roughly half will be represented by the heads of state or government, and roughly half are from Europe. AFP

NATO’s Stoltenberg meets Hungary’s Orban amid strain

BUDAPEST – NATO chief Jens

Stoltenberg was scheduled to meet Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Budapest Wednesday amid tensions between the central European country and the defense alliance over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

As Moscow’s closest EU ally despite its invasion of Ukraine, Orban is increasingly stoking fears of a war between the West and Russia, which he blames on Brussels and NATO.

The nationalist premier recently also suggested that he would like to “redefine” the position of Hungary in the alliance to prevent any participation in operations “outside NATO territory.”

Stoltenberg and Orban are to hold a joint press conference around 10 am.

Stoltenberg, who has been touring NATO members, is trying to hammer out a plan to be announced at a summit in Washington next month for NATO to play a bigger role in coordinating weapons deliveries and training for Kyiv’s forces. AFP

IN BRIEF

Biden’s son convicted in gun case by jury

WILMINGTON – A jury found Hunter Biden guilty on Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) of federal gun charges in a historic first criminal prosecution of the child of a sitting US president. The 54-year-old son of President Joe Biden was convicted on all three of the felony counts stemming from his 2018 purchase of a handgun while addicted to crack cocaine. The verdict comes as his father is seeking reelection, and the Democratic president changed his schedule to fly to Wilmington, Delaware, the family hometown where the trial was held. Hunter Biden was waiting on the tarmac when Marine One landed at Dela-

Condo blocking Fuji to be demolished

TOKYO

The company Sekisui House said in a statement late Tuesday it had “voluntarily decided to discontinue the project.”

“There is no denying that the current situation has an enormous impact on the landscape. We have decided to prioritise the view from the road,” it said.

The recently built apartments are in part of western Tokyo famous for its picturesque views of Japan’s highest mountain, which appears to soar into the sky from the end of the road named Fujimi or “Fuji Viewing” street.

But the tall new block spoils this effect because it obstructs half of the majestic active volcano.

Construction went ahead despite protests by residents proud of the street’s scenery, and tenants had been due to move into the condo in Tokyo’s Kunitachi district next month.

Then -- in a shock move -- developer Sekisui House recently put up a notice saying the complex would be demolished. AFP

HK cancels passports of 6 ‘lawless’ activists HONG KONG – The Hong Kong government said Wednesday it has canceled the passports of six democracy activists who fled to the United Kingdom, calling them “lawless wanted criminals.” Hong Kong last year issued HK$1 million ($128,000) bounties for 13 democracy activists based abroad who authorities accused of committing national security crimes.

The six named Wednesday were on the bounty list and considered “lawless wanted criminals... hiding in the United Kingdom,” a government spokesperson said in a statement.

“They continue to blatantly engage in activities that endanger national security... We therefore have taken such measure to give them a strong blow,” the spokesperson added, listing

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

RUINS OF WAR. A Palestinian woman watches as smoke billows following an Israeli strike south of Gaza City, in the town of al-Zawaida in the central Gaza Strip, on Tuesday amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was heading from Amman, Jordan to talks in key mediator Qatar after Hamas replied to a US-led proposal for a ceasefire in war-ravaged Gaza. AFP

AFP

PEACE SUMMIT. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (left) and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (right) hold a press statement after a visit to a military training area in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, north-eastern Germany, on Tuesday where Ukrainian soldiers are trained on the ‘Patriot’ air defense missile system. More than 160 countries and international organizations, meanwhile, were invited by Switzerland to the two-day summit at the Burgenstock resort complex, with more than 90 confirmations received so far. AFP

MASSACRE REMEMBERED. French President Emmanuel Macron (left) and German President FrankWalter Steinmeier stand together as they pay their respects during a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the massacre of 643 persons by Nazi German forces, in Oradour-sur-Glane, southwestern France, on Monday. On June 10, 1944, just four days after the Allied forces landed on the Normandy coast on D-Day, 643 inhabitants, including 247 children, were massacred in the tranquil village of Oradour-sur-Glane by German Waffen-SS soldiers belonging to the 2nd SS Panzer Division ‘Das Reich.’ AFP

SPORTS

PINEHURST—Scottie Scheffler appears unstoppable as Thursday’s first round of the US Open approaches, with many top rivals amazed the world number one already has five wins this year including the Masters.

“He’s the gold standard right now,” said 2020 US Open winner Bryson DeChambeau.

“Undoubtedly the best player in the world at the minute by a long way. It’s up to us to try to get to his level,” said four-time major winner Rory McIlroy, who dubbed Scheffler “relentless.”

Two-time major winner Jon Rahm said Scheffler is “basically replicating a Tiger Woods season. It’s fantastic.”

What can stop Scheffler? Well, he did settle for eighth at May’s PGA Championship after being arrested on driving-related charges that were later dropped.

“The only thing that took him from winning a golf tournament

McIlroy says divorce o after reconciliation with wife Erica

PINEHURST—Rory

McIlroy and his wife Erica have called off their divorce and are looking forward to “a new beginning”, the golfer told The Guardian newspaper on Tuesday.

McIlroy filed divorce papers to end the seven-year marriage last month, on the eve of the PGA Championship.

But ahead of this week’s US Open, the third major of the season, the Northern Irishman said there had been a change of heart.

“There have been rumours about my personal life recently, which is unfortunate. Responding to each rumour is a fool’s game,” the world number three told the newspaper.

“Over the past weeks, Erica and I have realised that our best future was as a family together. Thankfully, we have resolved our differences and look forward to a new beginning,” he added.

Erica Stoll was working for the PGA of America when she met McIlroy in 2012 at the Ryder Cup.

They began dating in 2015, becoming engaged in December that year while on holiday in Paris and marrying in April 2017 at an Irish castle. Their daughter, Poppy, was born in 2020.

Four-time major winner McIlroy previously dated Danish tennis star Caroline Wozniacki. They were engaged on December 31, 2013, but McIlroy announced in May 2014 that he had ended the engagement.

The 35-year-old has been in upbeat mood ahead of this week’s contest at Pinehurst. McIlroy, who has not won a major since the 2014 PGA Championship, has 20 top-10 major results since that decade-old triumph and is confident that he can make the breakthrough this week. AFP

was going into a jail cell for an hour,” McIlroy joked.

Scheffler will play the first and second rounds at Pinehurst with thirdranked McIlroy and second-ranked Xander Schauffele, the PGA Championship winner who sings Scheffler’s praises as well.

“Scottie is doing incredible things,” Schauffele said. “Every week we play, he seems to build a bigger lead and somehow make the mountain even taller for all of us to climb.”

Scheffler is the first player since Tom Watson in 1980 to win five PGA Tour events before the US Open, having taken titles at Bay Hill, the Players, the Masters, the Heritage and last week’s Memorial.

Everyone’s chasing Sche ler at US Open

The 27-year-old American, who became a father last month, has 12 top-10 efforts in 13 PGA Tour events this year, and he does it with a matter-of-fact attiude about his success.

“I’m not thinking about my wins anymore,” Scheffler said. “All I’m focused on is this week and getting ready to play. Last week doesn’t really matter.”

Every golfer is chasing his ranking and success but he doesn’t feel it.

“I still don’t feel like there’s much of a target on my back,” said Scheffler.

“It’s not like anybody is out there playing defense. When I play with Xander and Rory here Thursday and Friday, they’re not going to be saying weird stuff to me or trying to block my putt from going in the hole.

“Target on my back? I don’t really feel it and I don’t really think about it much.”

Scheffler hasn’t spoken with people about how to cope with his success.

“I haven’t really discussed that with anybody,” he said. “I try not to think

about the past too much and I try not to think about the future too much. I just try and live in the present. Sometimes it’s easier and sometimes it’s a bit harder.”

Even the high praise of rivals is taken as brotherly compliments.

“It’s nice to hear a little bit of good things from my peers,” Scheffler said.

“Definitely nice.”

So how is it being the world’s best golfer?

“I try not to overthink things,” he said. “I try to live one moment at a time and soak it all up because you never know how long it’s going to last. Just try and soak up the good times when you can and fight through the bad.”

‘A lot... is patience’Scheffler said that his biggest lesson learned from prior US Opens is to be mellow and patient.

“A lot of it is patience,” Scheffler said. “There’s certain areas of the golf courses where you can’t really fake it. You just have to step up there and hit great golf shots.” AFP

Top bets roll into Olivarez Open tennis quarterfinals

ERIC Jed Olivarez dispatched Lance Fernandez with ease, 6-1, 6-1, completing the quarterfinal cast in the Mayor Eric Olivarez National Open Tennis Championships at the Olivarez Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque Tuesday. The top-seeded Olivarez, who overcame Carlos Angeles 6-2, 6-2 after an opening-round bye in the men’s singles, faces Eric Tangub next. The seventh-ranked Tangub advanced by holding off Noel Salupado 6-2, 7-6(5) in their Round of 16 encounter. Second seed Johnny Arcilla also cruised to the Last 8 in the lower half of the 64-player draw. The multi-titled campaigner and veteran Davis Cupper dominated Miguel Iglupas 6-1, 6-1, and will face fifth-ranked Fritz Verdad, who progressed with a 6-1, 1-1(ret.) victory over Jude Ceniza. In other results, sixth seed Alexis Acabo defeated Loucas Fernandez 6-0, 6-2, setting up a quarterfinal match against John Benedict Aguilar, who routed Kendrick Bona 6-1, 6-2. Marco Macalintal survived a tough battle against Axl Gonzaga, winning 3-6, 6-1, 10-5, to advance against fourth seed Vicente Anasta, who overcame Art Calingasan 6-3, 6-3. In men’s doubles, Arcilla and Francis Alcantara rolled past Jay Balaoing and Alejandro Barrientos, 6-2, 6-2, to advance to the quarters against Acabo and Salupado, who thwarted Fritz Bernales and Roy Tan, 6-4, 6-4; while Olivarez and Bryan Saarenas clipped Expedito Lim, Jr. and Vince Serino, 6-0, 6-1, to arrange a clash with Lance Fernandez and Elvin Geluz, who rapped Phil Amora and Ronnel dela Cruz, 6-1, 6-1. Others who gained were Jose Maria Pague and Tangub, who edged Gonzaga and Gee Abacan, 5-7, 6-4, 11-9; Rolly Saga and Verdad, who demolished Macalintaland Rey Moreno, 6-3, 6-2; Loucas Fernandez and Miguel Iglupas, who upsed Jude Ceniza and Jeremiah Latorre, 7-5, 4-6, 10-7; and Ronard Joven and Nilo Ledama, who tripped Brian Oliveros and Dennis Pica, 6-4, 6-1.

Porzingis determined to play despite injury

DALLAS—Kristaps Porzingis said Tuesday he is determined to suit up for Boston against Dallas in game three of the NBA Finals despite a new injury scare that has left his fitness in doubt.

The Celtics announced Tuesday that the Latvian power forward had suffered a “rare” injury to his left leg in game two on Sunday that has left him “day-to-day” heading into game three in Dallas on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old has helped the Celtics into a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series after returning from a month-long injury layoff.

However, Boston said Tuesday Porzingis had been diagnosed with a “torn medial retinaculum allowing dislocation of the posterior tibialis tendon in his left leg” in game two on Sunday.

Although Porzingis was seen walking normally at practice on Tuesday, the Celtics have said no risks will be taken with the player’s fitness.

Porzingis told reporters he is determined to play on Wednesday unless told not to by medical staff.

Batangas subdues Binan; QC, Pangasinan triumph

BATANGAS leaned on a scoring spree to subdue Binan, 79-72, on Tuesday and rev up its drive in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Sixth Season at the FPJ Arena in San Jose, Batangas, Trailing, 22-26, Batangas City Tanduay Rum bunched 12 points to pull ahead at halftime, 34-26, and never looked back to tally its 10th win against 2 losses in the round-robin elimination phase of the 29-team tournament.

Levi Hernandez, who extended the Rum Masters’ run with a triple early in the third quarter, delivered 23 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 blocks to earn best player honors.

Jeckster Apinan supported Hernandez with 14 points, 4 rebounds plus 3 assists and so did Cedric Ablaza with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Back-to-back layups by Hernandez and Apinan and a triple by Ablaza shoved Batangas ahead, 71-55, but Binan managed to close the gap at 68-74 with only 31.7 seconds left through the efforts of Roger Rocacurva, Carlo Lastimosa and Mark Cardona. Binan, which fell to 6-4, got 17 points each from Nino Canaleta and Lastimosa and 12 from Rocacurva, all in the fourth quarter.

Other games saw Quezon City nip Negros, 83-79, and Pangasinan trounce Mindoro, 81-62.

Quezon City TODA Aksyon’s Paeng Are and Rhinwill Yambing to erase a 58-67 deficit early in the fourth quarter en route to its fifth victory against seven defeats. Are poured all of his 12 points while Yambing added 8 of his team-high 23 points, highlighted by a power slam, in the last 10 minutes as Quezon City overtook Negros’ 4-9 slate. Yambing also chalked 9 rebounds and 2 steals while Are added 4 rebounds and 4 assists for Quezon City Coach Egay Macaraya. Negros crumbled despite the 27-point, 6-rebound, 4-assist effort of Renz Palma, the 17-point, 5-rebounfd, 2-steal output of Hubert Cani and the 11-point, 7-rebound, 2-steal contribution of James Paul Una.

Unlike Quezon City, the Pangasinan Heatwaves breezed past the Mindoro Tamaraws, leading by as far as 64-41 before cruising to their fourth win in 12 starts. Ralph Robin paced Pangasinan with 21 points and 3 rebounds, followed by Ian Melencio with 12 points, 8 assists and 4 rebounds, and Ed Daquiaog with 10 points. Mindoro, which fell to 4-9, got 17 points, 4 assists and 3 rebounds from Ken Bono and 11 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists from homegrown John Jerrick Caspe.

“It’s kind of a random situation. I felt something, and now I have to deal with it,” Porzingis said.

“It’s day-to-day and I’ll see how I am tomorrow. Obviously, I’m going to do everything I can to be out there tomorrow. So we’ll see.

“Nothing’s going to stop me unless I’m told not to, or am not allowed to play.”

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla meanwhile described Porzingis’s injury as serious, and said the final decision on whether he would play would rest with Boston’s medical staff.

“He’s doing anything and everything he can to be ready for the game tomorrow,” Mazzulla said.

“It’s a serious injury. At the end of the day, our team and the medical team is not going to put him in any bad situations.

“We’ve taken the decision to play out of his hands because of the importance of him.

“He’s going to do everything he can to play. But we’re going to leave it up to our

Levi Hernandez shines for Batangas.

Scottie Scheffler of the United States plays a shot from a bunker on the 15th hole during a practice round prior to the US Open at Pinehurst Resort in Pinehurst, North Carolina. AFP

The MPBL returns to the BRen Z. Guiao Convention Center in San Fernando, Pampanga on Wednesday with games pitting Bicol against Bacolod at 4 p.m., Iloilo against South Cotabato at 6 p.m. and Davao against Pampanga at 8 p.m.

Kristaps Porzingis

Pacman unfazed by young Japanese MMA champion

By Randy Caluag

AT 45, Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao is proving that age is just a number, as he is set to face Japanese mixed martial arts champion Chihiro Suzuki in a three-round exhibition match on July 28 at the Saitama Super Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Exuding confidence, Pacquiao downplays the need to study his opponent’s MMA background.

“I didn’t see his fights because it’s MMA, but I know what boxing is. I don’t need to study his style,” said Pacquiao. The former eight-division world boxing king is already looking beyond this fight, hoping for more opportunities under the RIZIN banner.

“I hope after this fight, Sakakibara-san will give me a fight again in

RIZIN,” he added.

Suzuki, the RIZIN featherweight champion, is equally confident, though.

“I believe that I’m the only one qualified to challenge Manny Pacquiao ... with the potential to finish Pacquiao,” said Suzuki. “He (Pacquiao) will teach me what boxing is, but I will teach him what MMA striking is about.”

The formal announcement of their exhibition bout came after a face-off in Tokyo during RIZIN 47, where they

is part of the Super RIZIN event.

Pacquiao retired from professional boxing after losing his super-welterweight world title to Yordenis Ugas at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in 2021. He then ventured into politics, running for president of the Philippines. His brief return to the ring saw him dominate an exhibition match against YouTuber DK Yoo, demonstrating that his skills remain sharp.

Now, the former eight-division world champion is considering one last run, but first, he must perform well against Suzuki.

Suzuki, regarded as one of the top fighters outside of the UFC, brings his own impressive credentials to the ring.

As the current RIZIN champion, he has defeated notable opponents such as Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire, making him a formidable challenger for Pacquiao.

PH runners claim 11 golds in Phuket Marathon

BAGUIO—After two unsuccessful attempts, the Sarines siblings finally demonstrated their dominant form, sweeping the titles in the 11-14 category in the Junior Philippine Golf Tour Luzon Series 3 at the Pinewoods Golf and Country Club here Wednesday.

Vito and Lisa secured lateround victories under foggy conditions, sustaining their remarkable performances three legs into the 14-stage series organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.

After three tournaments in Luzon, the series heads to the Visayas for a three-leg swing starting Monday (June 17) in Iloilo.

Lisa’s convincing triumph over her twin sister Mona was impressive, but it was Vito’s win

By Peter Atencio

A GROUP of Filipino runners, led by Arlan Arbois, Richard Salano and Christine Hallasgo scooped 20 medals, including 11 of 12 gold medals at stake in the long-distance events of the Laguna Phuket Marathon over the weekend.

Arbois, who led a bunch of 18 elite Filipino contestants under the Team 7-Eleven Philippines banner, topped the men’s 42-km run in two hours, 34 minutes and 18.25 seconds.

Florendo Lapiz, a Cebuano who won the Manila leg of the Milo Marathon, took second in 2:42.13, ahead of Japanese bet

over Race Manhit that brought back memories of his thrilling escape in the series’ kickoff leg at Splendido Taal last month.

Tied with Manhit going into the par-4 18th, Vito clinched victory by securing a par while his rival stumbled with a three-putt miscue after missing the green, resulting in a two-shot victory.

Vito finished with an 80 for a 244 over 54 holes, while Manhit, who had battled back from six strokes down to force a tie with a par on No. 17 against Vito’s bogey, ended up with a 246 after a 76. Majen Gomez also carded a 76 to place third with a 255.

“I felt a lot of pressure when we were tied in the last three holes. But I told myself I needed

Kazuma Minamibata, who was third in 2:42.25.

Maricar Camacho ruled the women’s side in 3:13.38 of this meet, certified by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), to lead a 1-2-3 finish by Filipina runners.

Jennylyn Nobleza and Lizanne Abella settled for second and third in 3:32.25 and 3:35.2, respectively.

Organizers said the successful staging of the the Laguna Phuket Marathon has made it a pathway for the Boston Marathon in the future.

Salano, who recently topped the middle-distance events of the ICTSI-Philippine Athletics

to make par,” said Vito. “Although I bogeyed the 17th, I still ended up winning.”

After scoring a wire-to-wire victory at Pradera Verde, Lisa showcased her come-from-behind prowess, rallying from two shots down to shoot an impressive 71 and overwhelm the field with a runaway seven-stroke victory.

Lisa quickly regained control with a solid frontside 35 as erstwhile leader and twin sister Mona and contender Levonne Talion both wavered with bogey-riddled 40s. It was cruise control from there as Lisa pulled away with another birdie on No. 11 before slowing down with a bogey on No. 16 for a one-under card and a 54-hole total of 228.

Championships, led the men’s 21-km run in 1:13.24, with Prince Joey Lee taking third spot in 1:16.40.

Hallasgo, a veteran of the Southeast Asian Games, reached the women’s 21-km finish line in 1:23.68 for the gold, with Nhea Anne Barcena her runner-up at 1:29.40. It was Hallasgo’s second gold medal in the meet since her initial outing in 2019.

Over 10,000 running enthusiasts and visitors from 40 countries participated in the event, an annual running race held on Thailand’s largest island, Phuket, famous for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and warm climate.

tember, October and November to play friendlies to prepare, but I think the frame of the team is created,” added Saintfiet.

Sainfiet described the game of Indonesia as strong and clinical.

“But we learned a lot. I’m satisfied with my team. We will be ready for the Mitsubishi Cup, and later on, the Asian Cup qualification next year,” added Saintfiet. Peter Atencio

CHERY Tiggo proudly announced the return of Katherine Bell, the renowned 6-foot-2 American spiker, as their import for the upcoming 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference. The announcement was made Wednesday evening by the Crossovers. Expressing her excitement, Bell exclaimed, “I’m so excited to announce that I’m finally playing back in the Philippines for Chery Tiggo! I’ve been looking forward to coming back to Manila for a very long time now, about four years since COVID, and I cannot be more excited and happy to be back here for the fans, playing for Chery.” Bell, 31, brings with her a wealth of experience, having previously played for Petron in the defunct Philippine Superliga from 2018-2020. Notably, she was awarded Best Outside Spiker during the 2019 PSL Grand Prix while contributing significantly to the Blaze Spikers’

Christine Hallasgo holds the Philippine flag.

Manny Pacquiao finalized their agreement for the upcoming bout, which

GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL CHAMPS. Members of the Adamson University team are shown after reigning supreme in the 2024 Shakey’s Girls Volleyball Invitational League at the Adamson University Gym main court. The Adamson belles downed Bacolod Tay Tung in a dominating 25-20, 25-5, 25-22 sweep in the winner-take-all gold-medal match. Roman Prospero

Vito Sarines (right) and sister Lisa hold their medals. Manny Marcelo

Sefender Alex Monis in action

Katherine Bell

World Bank’s PH growth forecast for 2024

5.9% 2.6%

World Bank’s PH growth forecast for 2025

Global growth forecast for 2024

water

By Othel V. Campos

STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority

(BCDA) said it will relaunch the bidding process for the water project in New Clark City to secure a consistent and sustainable water source for the business hub and township project.

“We’re going back to the drawing board on the water project. Prime Water’s decision to back out underscores the need to find a solution that works for both the developer and New Clark City in the long term,” said BCDA chairman Delfin Lorenzana at the sidelines of the signing of a lease contract between techno hub locator Narra Technological Park and the provincial government of Tarlac.

Lorenzana identified the lack of established businesses as a key factor why the consortium led by Prime Water Infrastructure Corp. decided to withdraw from the project.

“There just aren’t enough locators yet to make the project commercially attractive at this point. This is why ‘economies of scale’ is such a crucial consideration,” he said.

Filinvest Development Corp., a Philippine developer known for its large-scale, sustainable projects, is currently providing temporary water supply from underground sources, but the long-term goal is to develop a more permanent and sustainable solution, said Lorenzana.

Leasing a property within the NCC for its industrial park complex, Filinvest was pressed to look for sources of water to serve the needs of its locators.

World Bank raises 2025 PH growth forecast to 5.9%

THE World Bank retained its 2024 growth forecast for the Philippines at 5.8 percent, but raised the 2025 outlook to 5.9 percent. It also expects growth to reach 5.9 percent in 2026.

“Over the forecast horizon, GDP [gross domestic product] growth in most EAP economies except China— including Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines—will be anchored by solid growth of private consumption supported by low inflation, declining borrowing costs and firm labor market conditions,” the World Bank said in its latest Global Economic Pros-

pects report.

World Bank senior economist

Ralph Van Doorn previously said the growth forecast for the Philippines considered the expectation that inflation would ease, allowing the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to adopt a more accommodative policy stance and spur private investment demand.

The World Bank expects headline inflation in the Philippines to average 3.6 percent this year and decelerate to 3.2 percent in 2025 and 3.0 percent in 2026.

It said the global economy is expected to stabilize for the first time in three years in 2024—but at a level that is weak by recent historical standards.

Global growth is projected to hold steady at 2.6 percent in 2024 before edging up to an average of 2.7 percent in 2025 to 2026. That is well below

the 3.1-percent average in the decade before COVID-19. The forecast implies that over the course of 2024 to 2026, countries that collectively account for more than 80 percent of the world’s population and global GDP would still be growing more slowly than they did in the decade before COVID-19.

It said developing economies are projected to grow 4 percent on average over 2024 to 2025, slightly slower than in 2023.

Growth in low-income economies is expected to accelerate to 5 percent in 2024 from 3.8 percent in 2023.

However, the forecasts for 2024 growth reflect downgrades in three out of every four low-income economies since January. In advanced economies, growth is set to remain steady at 1.5 percent in 2024 before rising to 1.7 percent in 2025.

LEMERY, Batangas is poised to become a key industrial player with the construction of a P3-billion port and industrial complex.

The seven-hectare Sinisian Lemery Batangas Port and Industrial Park (SLPIC) will house cutting-edge facilities designed to address current and future needs in the construction and energy sectors, said SLPIC president Ferdinand Co.

Co said the complex consists of three major components including the Sinisian Lemery Batangas Port & Industrial

Park, the Lemery Cement Silo Tank and the Lemery Oil Terminal.

Each component represents a significant investment exceeding P1 billion, said Co.

The deep-water port will have a draft depth of 15 meters, allowing it to accommodate large Panamax-sized oil tankers and cargo ships, increasing efficiency and capacity for handling goods coming in and out of the region.

The Lemery Cement Silo Tank offers impressive storage capabilities,

THE Philippine Hotel Owners Association (PHOA) expects to add 5,000 hotel rooms nationwide within the next five years.

“The aggressive expansion plan is backed by a robust pipeline of 50 hotel projects currently in development,” said PHOA executive director Benito Bengzon Jr.

“We see this as a very positive sign for the industry. We are also actively pursuing expansions beyond the metropolitan cities,” Bengzon said in a pre-event briefing for the upcoming Philippine Tourism and Hotel Investment Summit 2024 on June 21, 2024.

PHOA is looking forward to launching the Philippine Tourism Strategic Action Plan to narrow the gap with ASEAN competitors, partic-

holding up to 60,000 metric tons of bulk cement and slag. It also acts as a safeguard against potential material shortages, ensuring crucial construction materials are readily available during times of global uncertainty. The project is expected to open up 200 job opportunities for locals.

Seen fully operational by January 2025, the Lemery Oil Terminal will provide fuel security with a storage capacity exceeding 170 million liters.

Unioil Petroleum Inc. already secured a major tenant slot. Othel V. Campos

ularly Thailand and Malaysia, which have more hotels than the Philippines.

Led by the Department of Tourism (DOT), the roadmap is set to be unveiled at the upcoming summit. It will provide a clear direction for the country’s tourism industry.

The summit will bring together industry leaders, government officials and investors to discuss collaboration and promote sustainable tourism practices.

“This summit is a momentous occasion for the entire tourism and hotel industry. We believe this event will foster valuable networking, knowledge-sharing, and strategic discussions that will pave the way for sustainable industry growth,” said PHOA president Arthur Lopez. Othel V. Campos 5.8%

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Energy Regulatory Commission allowed Manila Electric Co. to get power supply amounting to 910 megawatts from the 1,200MW Ilijan natural gas plant of San Miguel Corp.-subsidiary South Premier Power Corp. at a base rate of P5.9282 per kilowatt-hour.

The ERC issued an order dated May 9, 2024 granting the provisional authority (PA) for the implementation of the power supply agreement (PSA) between Meralco and the winner in the competition selection process (CSP) or bidding.

“The commission noted that the issuance of PA will further protect Meralco’s consumers from exposure to volatile prices in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) and displace volumes contracted by Meralco also from the Ilijan plant at higher prices,” the ERC said. It said that based on the its simulations, Meralco’s blended generation rate would be lower by P0.2828 per kWh, subject to adjustment after the commission’s deliberation on the PSA’s final authority.

The commission also noted in its evaluation that while Meralco awarded 890 MW to 1,200MW of capacity under the PSA to SPPC, 290 MW is still contracted under an earlier contract [mid-merit supply, ending December 2024] which was previously authorized at the levelized cost of energy rate of P5.136 per kWh.

“Thus, the commission ordered the parties to continue honoring the subsisting contract and lower rate in respect of the 290-MW capacity,” the ERC said.

It also directed the parties to submit proof of compliance with the requirement under the CSP terms of reference.

Meralco and SPPC jointly filed an application with the ERC for approval of the PSA after the San Miguel unit was declared as the

ning

of Butuan City, Butuan Bankers Club, financial service providers (FSPs) and transport

MPTC to finalize acquisition of stake in Indonesian toll operator by July

By Darwin G. Amojelar

METRO Pacific Tollways Corp. aims

to finalize the acquisition of a 35-percent stake in an Indonesian stateowned toll road operator by July.

The transaction is crucial to the planned merger with San Miguel Corp.’s tollway business.

“What we’re waiting for there, the last major piece is the closing of the Trans-Java toll road because it’s big. So, from an evaluation standpoint, it’s important to us because it’s valuable,”

MPTC chairman Manuel Pangilinan said when asked about the planned merger with SMC’s tollway business.

“The deal with San Miguel is 5050. So hopefully by July, it will be closed. Sign the definitive agreement. Then it will be part [of the negotiation with SMC],” he said.

Pangilinan said SMC and MPTC are exchanging data, and the numbers

are already formed. “It will be done. It’s just a question of time,” he said.

MPTC chief finance officer Chris Lizo earlier said the estimated value of the 35-percent stake in the Jasamarga Transjawa Tol (JTT) that owns 13 toll roads is between $1 billion and $1.5 billion.

JTI has the largest connected toll road network in Java. It operates 13 toll sections spanning 676 kilometers.

MPTC teamed up with Singapore sovereign fund GIC for the acquisition of the stake in Jasamarga.

Under the proposed partnership, MPTC’s Indonesian subsidiary will acquire 20.3 percent of the 35 percent to be purchased, while GIC will own 10.3 percent. MPTC-led PT Margautama Nusantara will take the remaining 4.2 percent.

GIC recently invested in MPTC’s toll road unit in Indonesia, acquiring 33 percent.

Topline invests P210m to build more fuel stations in Cebu

TOP Line Business Development Corp. (Topline) invested around P210 million to finance the construction of seven new Light Fuels service stations and two Light Fuels Express service stations in Metro Cebu and Cebu province.

“We have only inaugurated last year our first service station under the Light Fuels brand, but we are continuing to expand our footprint in the retail fuel market as we chart our company’s growth to meet the growing demand in Central Visayas,” Topline chairman, president and chief executive Erik Lim said.

Taguig North sewer network undergoes upgrading—MWCI

MANILA Water Co. Inc. (MWCI)

said it ramping up the implementation of its sewer network projects.

It said one of these projects, the P119-million Taguig North Package 4A which is a part of the Taguig Sewer Network, is undergoing upgrades with channel interceptors and pipelaying activities. The pipelaying works include installing wider 600-millimeter (mm) fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) pipes with 4 to 5-meter depth used for lightweight construction; and 500mm smaller ductile iron pipes (DIPs) that are for shallower depths of 2.5 meters and for long-term iron pipe sewers. Manila Water said to ensure the long-term performance of the DIPs, it installed these pipes using the NPD 600 slurry pipe jacking machine, an innovative trenchless method that involves creating a special mixture to stabilize the soil, allowing the pipes to be guided through the ground with minimal disruption.

Topline aims to seize the growing demand in the retail fuel market with its state-of-the-art fuel stations as data from the Land and Transportation Office showed an 8.94 percent year-onyear increase in the number of registered new and renewed vehicles in Central Visayas.

“The retail fuel’s total projected annual volume for the 9 service stations is approximately 12 million to 12.5 million liters. With more liquid fuel supply in the market, we aim to contribute to the region’s fuel security especially amid supply risks,” Lim said.

The fuel service stations are operated by its subsidiary, Light Fuels Corp., and are expected to be operational within the year. The company inaugurated its first service station in February 2023 in Mandaue City.

The Light Fuels service station will incorporate cutting-edge technology, ensuring a quick and efficient fueling experience for customers such as RFID payment processing. Its major service stations are also designed to embrace change and new power trends by including ready options for electric vehicle charging kits.

Alena Mae S. Flores

LOCAL government units (LGUs) in Central Luzon and Northern Luzon are probably not aware of the best global practices in dealing with piles of trash. For them, landfills are simply the solutions to the mounting garbage problem in their districts.

The impending closure of the Kalangitan sanitary landfill in Capas, Tarlac province, by far the largest waste disposal facility in the two Luzon regions, recently grabbed newspaper headlines. Its shutdown on Oct. 5 raised fears of a massive garbage crisis.

Hospitals in the region joined the chorus of the so-called protests. Medical wastes from hundreds of hospitals, according to a group, would be left untreated once the government decided to shut down the sanitary landfill.

Clark Development Corp., a unit of staterun Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), is stopping the operations of the landfill once the 25-year contract with Metro Clark Waste Management Corp. expires. Extending the contract, even temporarily, would violate the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Law.

BCDA quickly allayed the fears of the LGUs. It identified three operational facilities that can serve as alternatives to the 4,000-ton-a-day Kalangitan sanitary landfill.

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

The alternative 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. (3,500 MT) per day; and a materials recovery facility by Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc., or PWS, (5,000 MT).

Japanese experience

The landfill tempest reminds me of an article published by UN News in April, in which Osaki town in southwest of Japan successfully dealt with its own garbage crisis.

Osaki’s landfill reached its capacity, with incinerator as the logical next step. The town, instead, decided to get serious about recycling.

Kasumi Fujita, a town councilor, committed to Osaki’s low waste policies and recounted what inspired her.

Ms. Fujita, according to the article published by the UN on its website, moved to Osaki in 2021 to work with the municipality, business sector and local community to help prepare the town for a more sustainable future. Today, Osaki, with a population of around 12,000, recycles 80 percent of its waste, and avoided building an incineration plant.

“I have always wanted to work for something related to the climate crisis, and strongly felt that I needed to act. That is why I came to Osaki. Here, waste is sorted into 27 different categories. Since there is no incineration plant, only blue bags go directly to the landfill without getting incinerated, while the other 26 categories are sorted and recycled properly,” said Ms. Fujita.

Plastics are separated into different types and then compressed. The compressed waste

Meralco opens bidding for 600-MW supply

By Alena Mae S. Flores

POWER retailer Manila Electric Company (Meralco) said Wednesday it launched the competitive selection process (CSP) or bidding for 600 megawatts (MW) of baseload supply to meet its requirements next year.

Meralco said in a statement this followed the Department of Energy’s (DOE) issuance of a certificate of conformity to the approved-power supply procurement plan for the terms of reference (TOR) of the latest CSP.

The TOR provides that “power suppliers with natural gas fired power plants are highly encouraged to participate in the Bidding and prioritize the use of indigenous natural gas.”

This CSP involves a 15-year power supply agreement (PSA) which is targeted to start by Aug. 26, 2025.

Meralco’s bids and awards committee for PSAs set the deadline for submission of interest on June 25, 2024.

The pre-bid conference is scheduled on July 4, while the bid submission deadline is Aug. 2. The conduct of CSPs is part of Meralco’s continuing efforts to ensure the availability of reliable, sufficient and cost-competitive power for customers.

Meralco recently started the bidding

will then be taken to recycling factories across Japan, where they can be used as construction bricks, tiles and blocks.

The garbage heaps around us present opportunities—not a crisis.

Food waste, meanwhile, is collected three times a week with a blue bucket, UN News related. It is crushed into smaller pieces. Pruned plants will also be brought in here, and they are mixed together with the food waste. The pruned plants contain many native micro-organisms. As they decompose, the waste turns into a rich compost, almost all which is used on Osaki’s farms.

“I think the process is very simple and can be practiced anywhere in the world. In fact, our process has been introduced to Indonesia: Osaki Town officials and the recycling center staff went there to demonstrate our techniques for separating and composting food waste. This may become a solution to a problem that many developing nations face right now,” said Ms. Fujita.

“I really feel people should learn more about the process of what happens to products after we use them, and how complex the issue of waste is. At the same time, they will realize that we can reduce waste. Businesses and local governments also need to understand the situation. We have to mobilize everyone to

for 500 MW of mid-merit renewable energy (RE) capacity. The 10-year power supply agreement (PSA) will cover Meralco’s 350-MW mid-merit requirement starting February 2025, which will increase by 150 MW beginning February 2026.

Meralco, through its bids and awards committee for PSAs, set the bid submission deadline on July 17. The conduct of the CSP is in compliance with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) policy on renewable portfolio standards (RPS) and forms part of the company’s commitment to source an increasing portion of its supply requirements from RE sources.

RPS is a policy mechanism that requires electric power industry participants such as generators, distribution utilities and suppliers to source or produce a specified fraction of their electricity from eligible RE resources. It is set at 2.5 percent of electricity sales allocation for distribution utilities connected to the grid.

make a difference.”

Waste segregation

The Philippines is taking a page from Osaki’s decision to drop the incineration option.

Prime Integrated Waste’s offer to address the garbage problem in Central Lauzon and Northern Luzon is climate-friendly.

It inaugurated in January this year an automated materials recovery facility (MRF) in Cebu that uses state-of-the-art equipment for waste segregation and storage—a first in the Philippines.

PWS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. of the Razon Group, was established in response to the increasing demand for proper waste management and resource recovery solutions in industrialized and fast-growing cities in the Philippines. Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ma. Antonia YuloLoyzaga is backing the initiative of PWS.

“It’s efforts like this that make our job possible… The first thing we need to do in this country is regard the solid waste management sector as an industry.... Investments will not make sense without all the moving parts put on the table and that includes local governance, environmental management; that includes private investment with government and aligned with government in addressing these particular issues,” she said.

A circular economy is about reducing waste to a minimum and recycling materials to maximize their value. The garbage heaps around us present opportunities—not a crisis.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

BUSINESS

PH woos ST Engineering to invest in infra, aerospace

DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual met ST Engineering Group president and chief executive with Chong at the sidelines of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) Clean Economy Investor Forum 2024 to discuss potential investments and collaboration.

ST Engineering is a global technology, defense, and engineering group with a diverse portfolio of businesses across the aerospace, smart city, defense and public security segments.

Held at ST Engineering’s headquarters in Singapore, the discussion centered on the importance of PPPs in driving innovation and infrastructure development in the Philippines.

“We are actively seeking strategic partnerships to enhance our technological capabilities and infrastructure

projects. ST Engineering’s extensive experience makes them an ideal partner for the Philippines’ strategic infrastructure agenda,” Pascual said.

The aerospace sector, particularly MRO, also emerged as a potential area for collaboration.

“The Philippines, with its growing aviation sector, offers a prime market for ST Engineering’s advanced MRO services,” the DTI chief said He said the collaboration aims to enhance the aviation capabilities of the Philippines, benefiting both countries through shared technology and expertise.

The Philippine delegation also presented the potential for ST Engineering to extend its smart city technologies and offerings to improve urban living conditions and sustainability in the country.

Gov’t bans poultry products from Michigan

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) restricted the entry of wild and domesticated birds, along with poultry products from Michigan in the United States, shortly after recalling the ban on similar products from Ohio.

Manila startup ecosystem value surges to $6.4b

MANILA’S startup ecosystem continues to flourish, according to the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) by Startup Genome and the Global Entrepreneurship Network.

The city’s ecosystem was valued at $6.4 billion from July 1, 2021 to Dec. 31, 2023. It also saw a 72-percent compound annual growth rate between July 2019 and December 2021, and continued between July 2021 to December 2023.

The surge was attributed to the economic impact of exits and startup valuations. These data were presented during the GSER launch at London Tech Week.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) teamed up with its local partner enablers and Startup Genome to showcase Manila’s entrepreneurial ecosystem at the #GSER2024.

This includes the Top 30 Global Ecosystem and Top 15 Asia Ecosystem in Affordable Talent which measures the ability to hire tech talent; Top 40 Global Ecosystem and Top 15 Ecosystem in Bang for Buck which measures the amount of runway tech startups acquire, on average, from a VC round; and Top 20 Asia Ecosystem in Funding which measures innovation through early-stage funding and investor’s activity.

It also ranked Top 30 Asia Ecosystem in Performance which measures the size and performance of an ecosystem based on the accumulated tech startup value created from exits and funding; and Top 30 Asia Ecosystem in Talent and Experience which measures long-term trends over the most.

The ban follows the emergence of the H5N1 subtype of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in the State of Ohio.

Under Memorandum Order 24 signed on June 7, 2024, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. suspended the importation of domestic and wild birds and associated products, including poultry meat, day-old chicks, eggs and semen from Michigan.

The DA also suspended the issuance of new sanitary and phytosani-

tary permits by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) for animal and product imports from Ohio.

Shipments from Michigan currently in transit, loaded or accepted at ports prior to the official communication of the order to US authorities will be permitted if the products were processed or produced 14 days before the initial outbreak was reported.

Non-compliant shipments may face confiscation and destruction, return to the country of origin, or redirection to

a third country, according to the department. According to the official report from the US Chief Veterinary Officer to the World Organization for Animal Health, an outbreak of the H5N1 subtype of avian influenza occurred in Michigan, as confirmed by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, on March 29, 2024.

US authorities observed the virus’s rapid spread, prompting the broadening of trade restrictions to safeguard

the local poultry population.

Under a bilateral agreement between the Philippines and the US in 2016, a state-wide ban is imposed if three or more counties are affected by avian flu, underscoring the collaborative efforts to mitigate the spread of the disease and protect poultry populations.

The DA maintains restrictions on poultry imports from the US State of California as well as the State of Victoria in Australia, Belgium and France.

By Alena Mae S. Flores

GRID operator National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) reiterated its commitment to improving, upgrading, expanding and reinforcing the Philippine power grid after signing the connection agreement with San Ignacio Energy Resources Development Corp. (SIERDC) for the construction of the new 440-megawatt Isabela ground mounted solar PV project.

NGCP president and chief executive Anthony Almeda said the company is ready to accommodate and

transmit any and all available power to the grid.

“We welcome the entry of new energy sources to address the need for additional power supply and ensure the reliability, adequacy, and quality of power being transmitted,” said Almeda.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of the connection agreement on Monday.

The P18-billion project, which will be established in Ilagan City, will generate around 700 gigawatthours per year when completed in 2028. It will also provide jobs for

SIX outstanding Filipinos were honored as the 2024 laureates of the Awards for Promoting PhilippinesChina Understanding (APPCU).

Given recognitions at a gala dinner at the Manila Hotel were Hall of Fame awardees businessman Larry Tan Villareal, professor and pioneer APCU member Gabriel Lopez, outstanding contribution awardees Special Envoy to China and businessman Benito Techico and Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba and major contribution awardees award-winning literary writer Cua Ching Tam and civic leader and educator Lily Tan Lim.

Former Secretary Raul Lambino, chairman of the organizing Association for Philippines-China Understanding (APCU), said the 2024

4,000 workers.

“There are three main participants in the energy industry, and all of us are connected: the generators who generate and supply power, the transmission service provider, that’s us, NGCP, we bring the generators to the third link, the distribution utilities and cooperatives who convert this power and deliver it in usable form to end consumers,” Almeda said.

“As you can see, we are all part of the energy supply chain, and all of us must be connected in harmonious synergy, to achieve power stability and resiliency,” he said.

DA forms TWG to streamline agri importation

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) established a technical working group (TWG) to streamline administrative procedures and regulations for agricultural imports.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. said the initiative aims to reduce non-tariff barriers and make it easier for importers to bring in imports.

The TWG will explore ways to simplify or exempt licensed importers from submitting registration requirements when obtaining import licenses.

laureates are pride of the Filipino people for helping build the bridges of understanding and friendship with the people of China in their respective fields.

He said APCU is at the forefront of people-to-people diplomacy since 1972 that has brought many benefits to the country and to the Filipino people.

Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian said the awards have become a flagship of friendship, a shining example of close neighbors in mutual respect despite ups and downs in its diplomatic relations.

He said more people should join the great cause and safeguard the long-lasting friendship, citing the laureates as esteemed models.

The TWG, in collaboration with the National Economic and Development Authority, will explore options to allow importation of certain agricultural products exceeding the Minimum Access Volume (MAV) quotas.

The group will work towards reducing or eliminating administrative fees associated with such imports, streamline the process and requirements for obtaining sanitary and phytosanitary permits, and explore ways to enhance logistics, transportation, distribution and storage systems for imported agricultural products.

Special Order No. 768 mandates DA agencies to publish the streamlined

SOLAR PUMP. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and House Speaker Martin Romualdez lead the unveiling on June 10, 2024 of

the Cabaruan Solar Pump Irrigation Project (SPIP), which generates power from solar panels that fuel two submersible pumps. Each pump discharges 12,800 gallons of water per minute, irrigating a sprawling 350 hectares

PH banks outlook brightens on

FITCH Ratings revised the Philippine banking sector outlook to “improving” from “neutral,” citing expectations that banks will preserve their recordhigh net interest margins (NIM) for longer due to a delay in policy rate cuts.

This, coupled with a sustained rise in higher-yielding consumer lending and the rollout of key infrastructure projects, is likely to buoy banks’ revenue prospects for the rest of 2024, Fitch said in a statement.

ARTIFICIAL intelligence and the internet of things (IoT) have the potential to transform the Philippine economy, according to an executive of US software company Couchbase. Genie Yuan, regional vice president for Asia Pacific at Couchbase, said agriculture and related sectors could see up to 6 million jobs automated, while 61 percent of manufacturing jobs in the Philippines are ripe for automation. This, he said, could potentially contribute $92 billion to the country’s gross domestic product by 2030. “However, the real power of AI and machine learning lies in the data,” Yuan said. He advised companies to build a

to underwrite P4.2-b share sale

By Jenniffer B. Austria

DITO CME Holdings Corp., the owner of DITO Telecommunity, tapped BDO Capital & Investments Corp. as the sole underwriter for its P4.2billion share sale.

Based on the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, BDO will be the lone issue manager, underwriter and book runner for the deal.

DITO CME plans to sell 1.953 billion shares at an offer price of P1 to P2.15 apiece. It will use the proceeds to support DITO Telecommunity’s commercial rollout of its network expansion and for general corporate requirements. The telecommunication firm plans to conduct the share sale in August.

It said up to 70 percent of the offer shares, or about 1.367 billion shares, would be sold to qualified institutional buyers, while the remaining 30 percent of 586 million shares would be offered through the trading participants of the Philippine Stock Exchange and local small investors.

DITO Telecommunity had more than 12 million mobile subscribers as of end-March 2024. It aims to provide unserved and underserved Filipinos with data-packed plans at most affordable prices.

DITO is targeting 15 million to 16 million mobile subscribers and 300,000 to 400,000 home broadband subscribers this year.

strong foundation with their data and ensure the right infrastructure is in place before jumping on the AI and IoT bandwagon.

“The Philippines is on the right track, but a unified data platform is essential for simplified management, improved accessibility and better analytics,” Yuan said. “Breaking down barriers between different data types and sources will provide a holistic view of operations, customer behavior and market opportunities. This comprehensive insight is critical for informed decisions that drive growth, efficiency and innovation.”

Beyond convenience and improved business productivity, Yuan said IoT

and AI can have a life-changing impact for Filipinos living in rural areas and urban slums. Due to unreliable electricity and poor internet connectivity, clinics in these areas often rely on paper records stored remotely, making them unavailable for future care.

“Our partnership with a mobile healthcare provider demonstrates how IoT improves access to treatment in rural areas,” Yuan said. “Remote diagnosis through IoT reduces the need for long and expensive trips to urban centers, while allowing medical professionals in rural areas to collaborate with colleagues in better-resourced facilities.”

“We believe the extension in higher interest rates will have a manageable impact on the sector’s asset quality given the resilient economy, with Fitch projecting GDP growth of 5.8 percent in 2024,” it said.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) opted to maintain its policy rate at 6.5 percent in its May 2024 monetary policy meeting, following a reacceleration in local inflation and persistent US dollar strength in recent months.

“We still expect the BSP to embark on its policy easing cycle this year, but we believe the gradient of normalization is gentler than we previously forecast,” it said.

Higher interest rates should help the banks maintain asset yields for most of the second half of 2023, while the sustained expansion in higher-yielding unsecured lending should result

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with global manufacturing leader Bosch on June 7, 2024, to leverage cutting-edge technologies and environment-friendly practices.

A key aspect of the partnership is the development of a pilot factory built to the highest industry standards.

The facility will offer simulated real-world manufacturing environments through lab experiences, integrating concepts like the internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI) and digital manufacturing processes.

The signing ceremony, held at the Bosch Rexroth Regional Training

UBX teams up with MediCard PH to enhance health access, convenience

UBX, a driver of digital transformation in the Philippines, signed a strategic partnership agreement with health maintenance organization (HMO) company MediCard Philippines Inc. to democratize health access while providing greater convenience to members.

Under the partnership, MediCard will leverage UBX’s end-to-end payment gateway BUx and the transactnow-pay-later solution Splix. This will enable MediCard to streamline premium payment collections while providing members with more flexible payment options for their healthcare coverage.

“Our collaboration with MediCard represents a significant milestone in our journey of including everyone

into the financial landscape. By leveraging each of our strengths — UBX’s innovative open finance solutions and MediCard’s wide network of healthcare partners and affiliates—we are helping make healthcare more accessible and less intimidating to Filipinos,” UBX president John Januszczak said.

Tailored to enhance the customer experience of MediCard members, the partnership aims to provide unparalleled convenience in acquiring health coverage products. Through BUx, MediCard members can pay for their coverage through payment channels such as online banking, credit/debit card payments, e-wallets and over-the-counter transactions.

Center in Singapore, forged a formal partnership between the DTI and Bosch in pursuing science, technology and innovation (STI)-driven industrialization.

The DTI’s STI strategy prioritizes the widespread adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies, which encompass automation, data exchange and manu-

facturing advancements, alongside continuous upskilling and reskilling of the Filipino workforce.

The collaboration is expected to contribute to the modernization of the Philippines’ manufacturing sector, enhancing its competitiveness and paving the way for a more sustainable future.

in incrementally better NIM, which Fitch now expects to expand by about 7 basis point for the year, reversing from a 7-bp contraction previously.

“We see upside potential for our forecast should BSP decide to further reduce banks’ deposit reserve requirements this year. BSP officials in April 2024 said the eventual target for the reserve ratio is about 450bp lower than current levels,” Fitch said.

Fitch said it expects loan growth and business volume to remain healthy for the rest of the year. System loan growth accelerated to 10 percent year-on-year by end-April 2024, from 8 percent in December 2023, on sustained credit card lending (up 29 percent) and higher loan disbursements to the construction (15 percent) and transportation sectors (22 percent).

“Demand for credit card and unsecured personal lending is less sensitive to policy rate movements and we expect the implementation of more infrastructure projects with privatesector participation to further prop up loan growth in the coming months,” it said.

IN BRIEF

Rival GCash earlier said it was considering undertaking an IPO in 2025. The mobile wallet of Globe Telecom was valued at over $2 billion in 2021, after raising $300 million from global investors. Darwin G. Amojelar

Pascual unveils new DTI slogan

TRADE Secretary Alfredo Pascual unveiled the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) new slogan “DTI: ANGAT Negosyo, ASENSO Trabaho, ALAGAng Konsyumer para sa Bagong Pilipinas.” Pascual said the initiative marks a significant step in DTI’s ongoing commitment to drive economic growth and enhance consumer welfare, aligning seamlessly with the national vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas.” He said the new slogan is a pivotal component of DTI’s communications strategic framework, a comprehensive plan designed to unify and elevate the department’s communication efforts across all functional groups and agencies. This framework outlines DTI’s leadership agenda, establishing a clear vision, mission, goals, and strategic intents to propel the organization forward. He said the new slogan encapsulates DTI’s dynamic and progressive vision. Building upon the heritage of the previous “Trabaho, Negosyo, Konsyumer” framework, the new slogan revitalizes DTI’s commitment

FFCCCII, other associations lead 23rd Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day

By Michael Wong Ho

THE Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) and various Filipino-Chinese associations celebrated the 23rd Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Reception Hall in Pasay City on June 7, 2024.

The event, themed “Dugong Tsino Pusong Pinoy,” was attended by China Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian, representatives from Filipino-Chinese associations, political and business elites and overseas Chinese representatives.

FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro highlighted the Chinese community’s contributions to the Philippine economic and social development and their active participation in charity activities. He emphasized the importance of friendship, understanding and effective communication in fostering stability, harmony, and regional development.

Key attendees included Counselor and Consul General Wang Yue of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines, Senate President Francis Escudero and Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna. The event also featured the launch of the Manila Galleon business magazine which aims to promote business exchanges and share the latest business trends between the Philippines and China.

It is expected that the Philippines and China will continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation to jointly promote the prosperity and development of the two countries and the region.

The FFCCCII, together with other major Filipino Chinese community associations including the Filipino Chinese Amateur Athletic Federation (FCAAF) also held the “FFCCCII Lakad Magkaibigan” civic walk on

Bakery groups to hold baking camp in Manila

By Julie Ann Lope

THE Filipino-Chinese Bakery Association Inc., in collaboration with the Philippine Society of Baking, is hosting a baking camp for young baking enthusiasts on June 29, 2024 at the FilipinoChinese Bakery Association Inc. Research and Training Institute in Sta. Cruz, Manila.

The camp is open to all kids and preteens bakers with ages 4 to 19. Participants have the option to attend the morning session from 8 a.m. to 12 noon or the afternoon session from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., or both sessions.

The camp offers hands-on experience with baking techniques, decorating and presentation.

Attendees will learn the secrets of making cakes, cookies, pastries, freshly made pizza and pizza dough, calzones, pretzels, and more, under the guidance of a PSB master baker.

Each participant will take home an apron, cap, recipes, baking tips, and their baked products.

Course fee is P1,800 per session, P3,000 for both sessions including lunch, and P2,400 for PSB and FCBAI allied and bakery members.

A 10-percent discount applies for registrations completed by June 25, 2024.

Chinese Filipino Business Club donates PH flag to local governments

THE Chinese Filipino Business Club Inc. (CFBCI) donated Philippine flags to various local government units in celebration of the Philippine Independence Day and to continue its tradition of promoting patriotism.

CFBCI’s chapters facilitated the turnover of Philippine flags to Manila, Quezon City, Navotas, Malabon, Caloocan City, Batangas, CauayanIsabela, Alegria-Cebu and Bacolod City.

The mayors and other government officials of the said cities and municipalities have acknowledged

and commended the CFBCI for its patriotic efforts.

The donated flags are distributed to municipal offices, public schools, and hospitals to instill and promote patriotism within the community.

“The Philippine flag is not just a flag; it symbolizes national pride and the sacrifices made by our ancestors for freedom and sovereignty. CFBCI hopes that during Independence Day, all stores and homes will proudly display the national flag, celebrating the spirit of patriotism that the flag represents.” the club said.

Julie Ann Lope

Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines and GetKlean Philippines signed a memorandum of agreement on May 31, 2024 to enhance vocational training and employment opportunities.

The partnership aims to strengthen Tzu Chi’s TechnicalVocational Scholarship Program by integrating GetKlean as an on-the-job training and employment partner for students enrolled in Tzu Chi’s Refrigeration and Airconditioning Course (RAC).

It also seeks to further refine scholars’ technical skills, expedite their employment prospects upon graduation and ensure sustainable income generation.

Cycling event celebrates Friendship Day, 49th PH-China diplomatic anniversary

THE Chinese Embassy in Manila, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) and the Filipino Chinese Amateur Athletic Federation (FCAAF) jointly sponsored a cycling activity on June 5, 2024.

The event commemorated the 49th anniversary of the Philippines-China diplomatic relationship and the 23rd anniversary of Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day.

PSC chairman Richard Bachmann led a group of 35 cyclists, alongside more than 200 Filipino Chinese bikers from Bonifacio Shrine in front of the Manila City Hall towards Quezon City.

She Yi Jing, president of the Filipino Chinese Amateur Athletic Federation, commanded the

The cycling activity aimed to spread the spirit of Philippine-China friendship along the route and promote the values of partnership and cooperation through

“The Tzu Chi community is very happy with our GetKlean partnership. This cooperation will open a path for deserving Filipinos to secure a bright future for their families and continue the cycle of goodness,” Tzu Chi Philippines chief executive Henry Yuñez said. GetKlean chief executive Marvin

Tzu Chi Foundation, GetKlean sign agreement to enhance vocational, skills training

Perol noted the shared vision of providing job opportunities and said he treats the partnership as one of their milestones.

“We are aligned in our mission to help people,” Perol said.

GetKlean, initially established to address unemployment resulting from the closure of its media business during the COVID-19 pandemic, has evolved into a leading provider of comprehensive cleaning and air conditioning services nationwide, employing over 200 individuals across 100 cities.

With a commitment to using entrepreneurship in helping people and alleviating poverty, GetKlean aims to expand its workforce to 1,000 employees by 2027.

Tzu Chi’s Technical-Vocational Scholarship Program, dedicated to empowering underprivileged Filipinos with employable skills, offers a comprehensive package including free tuition, meals, school supplies, transportation allowance and TESDA assessment fees. Julie Ann Lope

Loa to represent PCC in Taiwan basketball tourney

ZACHARY Loa, a student of Philippine Cultural College (PCC), represents the institution in the Philippine Ching Yuen Athletic Association (PCYAAA) Taiwan Selection Basketball Goodwill Games from June 9 to 16, 2024.

The event features top high school basketball talents from various Chinese-Filipino schools and Taiwan.

PCC athletic director Jou Elegores accompanies Loa to provide guidance and support throughout the goodwill games.

“The selection underscores our commitment to excellence in sports and our continuous effort to foster athletic talent among our students. Zachary Loa’s participation is a testament to his skill and dedication, and PCC is confident he will make the school proud.” the school said. The PCYAA Taiwan Selection Basketball Goodwill Games is a prestigious event aimed at promoting goodwill and sportsmanship through basketball, bringing together young athletes from member schools of PCYAA.

Julie Ann Lope

Members of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) and other Filipino-Chinese associations hold the ‘FFCCCII Lakad Magkaibigan’ civic walk on June 9, 2024 to commemorate Independence Day.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte (second from right) receives the Philippine flag donated by the Chinese Filipino Business Club Inc. (CFBCI).

Zachary Loa (right) and PCC athletic director Jou Elegores

Officials of the Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines and GetKlean Philippines signed a memorandum of agreement on enhanced vocational training.

departure.

sports. Michael Wong Ho

Bikers gather at the Bonifacio Shrine in front of the Manila City Hall to mark the start of the cycling event aimed towards spreading the Philippines-China friendship.

THURSDAY, JUNE 13, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

CANADIAN diva Celine Dion is determined to return to singing onstage despite suffering from a rare neurological condition – “even if I have to crawl,” she said in a candid new interview. In the sit-down with US network NBC, which will be released in full later Tuesday, Dion said that although she has been suffering from Stiff Person Syndrome – which causes stiff muscles in the torso, arms, and legs, and can trigger severe spasms –her power to “I’m onstage, have to crawl. Even if I have to talk with my hands, I will. I will,” Dion, 56, said. The interview came out ahead of the release of her documentary I Am: Celine Dion release on June 25 on Amazon Prime.

SHOWBIZ

Songs that stir the Filipino patriotic spirit

wonder why Filipinos remain patriotic despite the challenges we face, we can partly attribute it to the songs that deeply resonate with our Pinoy pride. These tunes contain lyrics that evoke themes reminding us of the inherent coolness of being Filipino. Whether we were born and raised in the Philippines or have roots planted in the land of Juan dela Cruz, each emphatic lyric line or infectious chorus melody serves to empower us.

Touchbass Yugel Losorata

These songs have become Pinoy anthems at some point and to some extent, serving as strong fillers (in the context of an album with one, carrier single) to the main gem that is “Lupang Hinirang,” or “Bayang Magiliw” to some people not keen enough to realize that the first two words of our national anthem aren’t part of the title. We know it is truly effective when a piece becomes embedded in our consciousness like that Jose Mari Chan Christmas song that earns significant airplay come the -ber months.

the awareness of how diverse we are as a nation culturally, ideologically, etc.

There have been a lot of factors that have somehow divided our nation into groups with different sets of mindset, beliefs, and ideals,” shared Jonathan Manalo co-writer of that hit theme.

Big thanks also to its radio-friendly melody, even if marred by rip-off controversy, the song became both a dance craze and a badge of Filipino resiliency and individuality.

The late great Francis Magalona established his reputation as a rapper who espoused patriotic thoughts with the lead single “Mga Kababayan” from his debut album Yo! Hotdog’s signature song is a track that longs for the thirdworld noises and speeding jeeps inherent in Metro Manila, along with its pretty girls. The guy singing about San Francisco and Sydney had to pick the most famous city in the archipelago to make the song work and it made sense. Some foreigners find it easy to say Manila where there is thrilla. And while some didn’t sit well with it being used during an international sporting event held in the Philippines, “Manila” is no doubt a song that can make you fall for things identified with Philippine life.

effective in its grand ballad showcase of that sense of pride. Admit it or not, it goosebumps each time the line “Taas noo kahit kanino” is sung. Thanks in part to Kuh’s majestic vocal delivery. That track and “Bayan Ko,” which became a battle cry against tyranny, and with Freddie Aguilar’s voice allowing the bird mentioned in the song to be soaring, are the two picked by songwriter Renee Santos when I asked him to name the two top nationalistic songs for him. My FILSCAP-mate is the tunesmith behind the classic “Oh Babe.” I don’t need him to elaborate on his choices. Two thumbs up!

Nearly 20 years ago, Filipinos were introduced to the reality competition Pinoy Big Brother, along with its opening theme so well-

Fast forward and in light of what happened in the 2022 national elections, when friends become foes, and the long-accepted narrative of history was unabashedly challenged on social media, the message of “Pinoy Ako,” if analyzed with an open mind, had become more attached to the Filipino resolve. Jonathan, who I worked with in a Christmas song called “Paskong Wala Ka,” related, “And despite that, I believe that we all just want the best for our country. Our ways may differ in expressing our love for our country, just like how my lyrics goes - ‘Lahat tayo’y mayroong pagkakaiba, sa tingin pa lang ay makikita na, iba’t ibang kagustuhan, ngunit isang patutunguhan.”

loved it can be argued it was the best thing about

If the idea of writing a nationalistic Filipino song is to primarily link us together, amid the diversified tongues and provincial cultures, then all the more that it is necessary to keep these songs coming. Kuh Ledesma’s “Ako Ay Pilipino,” penned by the legendary George Canseco, is obviously

“I am Celine Dion, because today my voice will be heard for the first time, not just because I have to, or because I need to. It’s because I want to and I miss it,” said the Grammy-winning singer behind hits including “My Heart Will Go On.” Dion first disclosed in December 2022 that she had been diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome, an autoimmune disorder. There is no cure for Stiff Person Syndrome, which is progressive, but treatment can help control symptoms. According to the US National Institutes of Health, the condition affects twice as many women as men.

“It’s like somebody is strangling you,” she said, saying the pain can course through her

entire body, and that the spasms have at times caused broken ribs. Dion was forced to cancel a string of shows scheduled for 2023 and 2024, saying she was not strong enough to tour. She made a surprise appearance earlier this year at the Grammy Awards, presenting the Album of the Year award to Taylor Swift The Quebec-born star’s Courage World Tour began in 2019, and Dion had completed 52 shows before the COVID-19 pandemic put the remainder on hold. AFP

No problem with politicians or artists expressing their love of country as long as they mean it from the heart. It’s unfair to the Philippine flag if being vocal about it is done to win votes to fool the public or attract the masses for selfish publicity. History repeatedly informs us that dictators, racists, and people with sinister intentions often used nationalism as a front to trick the people into believing they mean well.

Better not say we’re doing something for the country’s sake when it is blatantly clear we’re mere fanatics of a particular politician. Let’s pay due respect to composers who mean what they wrote and the singers who have expressed their loyalty to the country with sincerity. Let the power of beautiful music and true patriotism be the amulet in our blood, as Bamboo sings in their seminal hit “Noypi.”

Actor and singer Piolo Pascual is featured in Cinema One’s ‘Laging

Celebrating 30 years of championing Filipino films

CINEMA One celebrates 30 years of bringing the best of Philippine cinema to cable television with the launch of the “Laging Kasama” music video featuring Piolo Pascual The music video showcases Piolo performing the song alongside a montage of various iconic Filipino films. It was released on Cinema One’s Facebook and YouTube channels and was also aired on ABS-CBN channels.

In addition to the anniversary theme song, the

Kasama’ music video

The late rapper Francis Magalona was known for his patriotism through his songs

Freddie Aguilar’s rendition of ‘Bayan Ko’ was the anthem during the 1986 People Power Revolution

Jonathan Manalo is a co-writer of ‘Pinoy Ako,’ which was popularized by reality competition ‘Pinoy Big Brother’

Kuh Ledesma is the voice behind ‘Ako ay Pilipino,’ which was written by composer George Canseco

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

How Marian Rivera prioritizes

kids’ health despite busy schedule

By Abigail Adriatico

ALTHOUGH Marian Rivera juggles many roles as an entrepreneur and actress in film and television, one hat that she never takes off is that of being a hands-on mother to Zia and Sixto

Despite her busy schedule, Marian makes it a point to put her children at the top of her list of priorities. She continuously strives to ensure their physical, mental, and emotional development, making sure that they are growing up as happy and healthy as possible.

During the celebration of vitamin supplement Ceelin’s 50th anniversary, Marian, who is one of its celebrity ambassadors, shared that one of the things that she and her husband Dingdong Dantes worry about when it comes to their children is how to protect them from viruses and illnesses once they go outside.

“My children go to school. They go out and interact with various people. Sometimes, their classmates come to school with a cough or cold, so it’s inevitable that they might catch it. That’s what my husband and I are always worried about,” Marian said in Filipino.

The celebrity mom shared that to protect them from the possible illnesses they might catch from their day-to-day routines, she always makes sure that her children have a balanced diet filled with nutritious food while also regularly taking their vitamin supplements.

Alam naman natin na malaking bagay talaga ang kumakain ng masustansiyang pagkain…plus vitamins. Hindi pwedeng wala yung combo na yun,” Marian added.

According to the 39-year-old TV and film star, letting her children take their vitamins daily was already a necessity, especially when they catch a fever or any other sickness. While she acknowledges that there will

Young fathers need to stay on top of their health for the sake of their family Three

be inevitable times when her children will not like the medicine they’re supposed to take when they are sick, Marian said that she tries to first make them understand what it will be for.

“Sometimes, there are instances when the medicine doesn’t taste good... so we explain to them what it’s for. Once they understand, they will surely take the medicine,” said Marian, adding that this is advice she often gives to fellow parents.

With taking vitamins being a part of her children’s daily routine, Marian said that the variety in the products that Ceelin offers makes it a more fun endeavor for them.

“Because Ceelin comes out with many products... it seems like the kids get more excited about the different options you offer them,” said Marian, noting that Sixto’s favorite is the syrup, while Zia prefers the gummies.

Apart from Marian, other celebrity moms who also joined the celebration of Ceelin’s milestone were Bianca Gonzales and Andi Manzano

During the event, Ceelin also donated P500,000 worth of products to Caritas Philippines as it continues to help Filipino children have a happier and healthier childhood.

significance of developing healthy habits.

“Start small and try practicing one or two strategies, such as writing down a few of your strengths or happy memories,” she expounded.

Why great young dads care about their health

FROM holding your baby for the first time to chasing your toddler in the playground, early fatherhood is full of moments that make any young dad feel invincible. This life-changing experience motivates you to become a better man, recalibrate your life choices, and pursue promotions or business ventures to provide for and protect your family. But, dude, have you thought about your health lately?

Joel A. de la Rosa, MD, from the Section of Cardiology of Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) points out that men often have a bad habit of relegating doctor’s appointments to the backburner.

“Many robust young men put off going to the doctor until it’s too late. Unlike women who have regular gynecologist visits, men simply aren’t encouraged to see a doctor regularly. But refusing to recognize your current health challenges and your vulnerability to certain conditions can cause bigger health problems that can alter your life,” says Dr. de la Rosa. MakatiMed underscores that one common health problem that young men should watch out for is ischemic heart disease or when the heart doesn’t get enough blood and oxygen because of the narrowing or hardening of the arteries.

“It is the top killer disease in the Philippines.

PSYCHOLOGICAL well-being is considered a core aspect of mental health.

Psychotherapist Amy Morin, LCSW highlighted that persons with higher psychological well-being are more likely to live and enjoy healthier and longer lives. They experience fewer social problems and can cope better with stress. They adapt more easily to setbacks and changes and have lower disease and mortality risks.

“Psychological well-being is a key part of feeling happy and being able to function dayto-day,” she explained. Morin, a licensed clinical social worker, however, noted that it is more than just “finding pleasure” or “feeling good”.

“It takes what is known as a eudaimonic perspective, which stresses the importance of things like personal growth, purpose, meaning, and selfrealization,” she added.

To guide the general public, the bestselling author of five books on mental strength championed the

“Over time, you will see the effects that these practices have on your positivity and overall mental health,” she added.

Echoing Morin, the experts from the Benilde Well-Being Center (BWC) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) rounded up her tips published on the award-winning platform Verywell Mind and medically reviewed by psychiatrist Carly Snyder , MD, the director of Women’s Health for telemedicine services Family Health Associates.

Here are the ways to function and feel better: Create purpose Live with meaning. Think about the impact you want to leave. Establish the objectives to achieve these goals. It does not have to involve changing the world. You may choose to be kind every day. Adopt pets, or advocate for

those who are hurting. Encourage others to take care of the environment. Think positively

Devise a plan on how to live your best life. Recall the best memories. Recognize the good things. Write down what you are grateful for. Be reminded of the fullness life has to offer. Give yourself something to look forward to.

Perform acts of kindness to release endorphins and oxytocin – the feelgood hormones. Forgive and let go of past hurt and anger. Practice mindfulness to help manage stress and reduce anxiety and depression. Remind yourself that you are capable.

Foster relationships Loneliness takes a serious toll on emotional and physical health. Strong social support is essential. Form deep connections with other people. Social media may be a good way to keep in touch. However, there is no real substitute for the benefits of face-to-face contact. Eat dinner with your family. Have coffee with a friend. Reach out to old laps. Get acquainted with your neighbors. Join community activities.

The risk for this disease begins developing when you’re in your 20s or 30s when most people are also exposed to chronic stress, which can lead to persistent elevation in blood pressure, commonly known as hypertension, damaging arteries, and building plaques,” explains Dr. de la Rosa.

Young dads should be vigilant against cancers affecting the lungs, liver, colon/rectum, prostate, stomach, and leukemia, as these have emerged as the most prevalent types of diagnosis for Filipino men.

“Many of these cancers develop over time because of unhealthy habits like smoking, eating too much processed and fatty foods, and a lack of physical activity,” notes Dr. de la Rosa.

Type 2 diabetes is another consequence of poor lifestyle choices. “Beware of symptoms like constant thirst, constant urination, fatigue, dizziness, weight loss, and slow-healing wounds, especially for those who eat a lot of refined carbs, sugars, and saturated fat,” cautions Dr. de la Rosa.

Heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes are serious health conditions that greatly affect one’s quality of life.

“These diseases eat up not only your health but also precious time with your family and your resources, too. Fortunately, it’s never too late. You can always start investing in your health today,” highlights Dr. de la Rosa.

Managing stress, pursuing a healthy life by eating more fruits and vegetables, spending more time working out, as well as taking relevant routine and diagnostic tests, and even spending quality time with the family are some concrete steps young dads can take to improve their wellness.

“Dads, your kids are counting on you, from diaper changes to school runs to solving math to navigating life. Now, maintaining health is a hallmark of a great, responsible father. So, prioritize your well-being and see a doctor regularly. You owe it to that little baby who made you a better man,” emphasizes Dr. de la Rosa.

Volunteering

From left:

Celebrity moms Bianca Gonzalez, Marian Rivera, and Andi Manzano

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

Very Wang Nickie Wang

WE ALL know the feeling of being cooped up during the humid and dry summer season. The ground seems dusty, the air thick, and everything feels a little parched. Then, we welcome the rainy seasons – the clouds gather, and the first drops of rainfall.

Ah, the rain! It’s more than just wet weather. It’s nature’s way of hitting the reset button as the rain brings life.

The rainy season at The Farm at San Benito is known as the Healing Green Season as it brings tranquility and renewal.

“During this rainy, Healing Green Season, we offer medically-supervised detox and cleansing programs to purge negative elements and toxins from your mind and body while providing optimum nutrition, psycho-emotional healing, and spiritual enrichment,” explains Jennifer Sanvictores , The Farm’s Global Head of Sales & Marketing. “Our comprehensive

Experience the ‘Healing Green Season’ at The Farm at San Benito

Holistic Detox Cleanse program can be the perfect choice for you.”

The Farm offers a five-day cleansing program designed for busy individuals who can’t commit to longer detox programs. It includes a supervised vegan diet, juice fasting, nutritional support, colon and kidney cleansing, and cellular healing. This holistic approach aims to rejuvenate your body and mind.

The program also incorporates psychoemotional clearing, daily mindful movement, and functional fitness activities. Detoxification can boost your immune system, aid in weight loss, improve skin health, increase energy levels, and enhance mental clarity.

As the recipient of the Best Medical Wellness Resort in the World award, the eco-luxury wellness resort provides comprehensive detoxification retreats with guaranteed results. They follow five key principles: Diagnose, Cleanse, Nourish, Repair, and Sustain.

During the program, guests are offered vegan meals, nutritional juices, and daily support for optimal nourishment. Guests receive personalized health consultations and nutritional assessments. Fitness assessments and cellular health screenings are included,

such as the Oligoscan for heavy metals, minerals, and vitamins. Colon hydrotherapy treatments like Colema™, Angel of Water®, and Colonics are provided, along with rectal infusion therapy using wheatgrass. Other treatments include kidney cleansing, lung compresses, and traditional Hilot massages. Guests enjoy purification treatments like the Yin Yang Body Polish and sessions in the Vital Dome®. Sustainable healthy lifestyle discussions promote longterm wellness. Mindful movement and fitness activities like yoga, guided nature walks, and wellness workshops are encouraged. Full access to resort facilities, including swimming pools and the Pure Energy Gym, is included, along with strong Wi-Fi access.

person per night, excluding accommodation. Room rates start at P12,000++/ USD 220++ for two persons per night in a Palmera Suite. (Note: Philippine Peso rates apply to Philippine residents and local expats only.)

The program, medically supervised, starts at P21,000++ / USD 400++ per

Beauty brand celebrates milestone in glittering affair

Experience a life-transformative healing holiday at The Farm at San Benito. For inquiries, email reservationsteam@thefarm. com.ph or message on WhatsApp at +63 917 572 2222. Visit www.thefarmatsanbenito.com to start your journey towards holistic well-being today.

when I went to Brilliant Medical Group, I said, ‘Doc, you take care of it.’ I have my favorites, like the hydrafacial, and a new laser they use to lighten skin pigments, which is very good since I am prone to acne.”

A highlight of the event was the launch of the Hello Melo Drink. Actress Kim Chiu took the stage to perform and was officially signed as the brand’s endorser.

She shared her excitement, “I am very excited about this collaboration. And of course, with more collagen, we will look younger because studies show that you lose 1 percent of collagen every year, which makes you look older, but with the help of Hello Melo, we will all look younger.”

the media, discussing her new role and the

Kim also participated in a Q&A session with the media, discussing her new role and the benefits of the company’s newest product.

“If you are happy with your life, it will reflect on your face, making you look bright, happy, and beautiful because you’re not stressing over unnecessary problems. So just live in the moment, just live. Do what makes you happy and what makes you beautiful,” she advised.

Nearly 1,200 attendees, including franchisees and distributors from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, attended the starstudded affair.

Nearly 1,200 attendees, including

The Farm at San Benito offers a

Kim Chiu shares the benefits of Hello Melo Drink during the event’s Q&A session

From left: Paulo Avelino, Brilliant Skin Essentials CEO Glenda dela Cruz, and Arci Muñoz

Actress Kim Chiu is the newest brand ambassador of Brilliant Skin Essentials