Manila Standard - 2024 June 20 - Thursday

Missed your

VP drops DepEd, quits Cabinet

By Charles Dantes, Maricel Cruz, Rex Espiritu and Macon Ramos-Araneta

VICE President Sara Duterte tendered her resignation as a member of the Cabinet on Wednesday, a move that was immediately accepted by the President.

“Uniteam has formally been dissolved and (VP Sara) has just become the leader of the opposition. The line has been drawn,” said former Duterte administration presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.

HIJACKED. Chinese vessels intercept a Philippine Navy boat heading for BRP Sierra Madre (left photo) and board the vessel, seizing guns and other items and destroying equipment. (right photo). Bottom left photo shows Armed Forces chief Romeo Brawner, Jr. awarding a wounded personnel medal to a soldier who lost a thumb during the incident. (Photos from Next Gen PHDefense FB page/TV 5 screengrab)

Two of Megaworld townships are located in former sugar central sites that play an important part in the history of the country’s sugar industry. Capital Town Pampanga in the City of San Fernando sits on the old Pampanga Sugar Development Company (PASUDECO) compound, while The Upper East in Bacolod now occupies what used to be the former site of the Bacolod-Murcia Milling Company (BMMC).

AFP chief demands return of seized items, reparations

By Rex Espiritu, Maricel Cruz, Rachelle Tonelada and Macon Ramos-Araneta

actions of Chinese vessels during

a June 17 routine rotation and resupply (RORE) mission of Philippine vessels in Ayungin Shoal. The DFA said it “denounces the illegal and aggressive actions of Chinese authorities that resulted in personnel

People of money, influence fuel POGOs—Archbishop Lazo

By Vito Barcelo

A CATHOLIC Archbishop said that powerful and influential people are behind the sudden rise in the number of illegal offshore gambling operations in the country, saying corruption and misuse of power are the cause of these illegal activities. In his homily, Archbishop Jose Lazo of Jaro, Iloilo City pointed out that the rise of illegal Philippine offshore gam-

bling operators (POGOs) reflects a mentality that “if you have money or influence, whatever you want, you get.”

“Looking at our own country, this sounds familiar. Like the POGOs that we have, hundreds of them in the coun-

try, not even half are registered. And they continue to operate,” Lazo said, hinting that the industry is likely protected by corrupt individuals.

Portraits of a National Hero: Actors who portrayed Jose Rizal on the big screen

By Ratziel San Juan

Japan commits more jobs for Filipinos, says Speaker

By Maricel V. Cruz

Beijing says forces acted with restraint

A CHINESE foreign ministry spokesperson on Wednesday defended its actions against Philippine soldiers at a contested shoal.

“Law enforcement measures taken by the China Coast Guard at the site were professional and restrained,” foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a regular news briefing in Beijing. He said that “no direct measures” were taken against Filipino personnel.

FEW characters are emblematic enough to the point of warranting multiple depictions just to map out their personality. Think of the likes of Batman or locally Darna. Icons so cemented in popular culture that the casting for their roles never fails to keep the public tuned in.

Not a superhero but a national hero, Jose Rizal led superlative lives in his brief 35 years in this world. That is why on the occasion of his 163rd birth anniversary, Manila Standard recognizes his role that has been reprised time and again through the motion picture.

Here are the multitude of Filipino actors who took to the big screen to show the bigger picture of Jose Rizal’s own story — a narrative so colorful that it takes a village just to map out.

Jose Rizal

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte

MegaStan

Capital Town City of San Fernando, Pampanga

The Upper East Bacolod City

Analyst dissects VP Sara’s breakaway

By Rachelle Tonelada

POLITICAL analyst and former presidential adviser

Ronald Llamas weighed in on Vice President Sara Duterte’s departure from the cabinet of President Marcos, calling it a “very interesting development, even as he doubts it will contribute positively to her public trust and approval ratings.

Pundits connected Duterte’s resignation as Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary and Co-Vice Chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) on Wednesday, June 19, to her political ambitions, considering the 2025 midterm elections.

Llamas, who served as a political adviser for the late President Benigno

Aquino III, said this could significantly weaken, if not entirely dismantle, the Dutertes’ senatorial slate. “This could lead to a major marginalization of the Duterte camp in the upcoming midterms,” he said in a TV interview.

While the Vice President has remained tight-lipped about her reasons for stepping down, Llamas sees this move as a potential game-changer in the

Philippine political arena, especially given the complex dynamics involving the Duterte and Marcos factions.

Despite the potential blow to the Duterte slate, Llamas warned against assuming a clear path for the Marcos camp. In Philippine politics, loyalties often shift whenever elections are approaching and more so when the dust settles.

“There’s uncertainty surrounding the loyalties within Bongbong Marcos’ slate. The political allegiance of those rallying behind the administration’s candidates beyond the midterms is far from guaranteed,” he explained.

Llamas further noted the uniqueness of the current political environment, marked by high-stakes maneuvering between the Duterte and Marcos camps.

This unprecedented level of involvement by two powerhouse political

families, coupled with international pressures such as those from the International Criminal Court (ICC), adds layers of complexity to the situation.

When questioned about whether Duterte’s resignation could boost her or her party’s approval ratings, Llamas expressed skepticism.

He suggested that any potential benefits would depend on whether the Vice President can use this opportunity to strengthen both her organizational leadership and the coherence of her political message.

“For this resignation to be advantageous, Sara would need to consolidate not only her leadership base but also the narrative of the Duterte camp. Often, their messages have been contradictory, with differing statements from her father, spokesperson Harry Roque, and herself,” Llamas observed.

Rizal’s legacy remains relevant—Imee

By Roy C. Tomandao

Eddie del Mar

Eddie del Mar won the FAMAS Award for Best Actor for his lead role in the 1956 biopic “Ang Buhay at Pag-ibig ni Dr. Jose Rizal.” He is widely recognized as the first actor to depict Rizal, setting the bar for future screen performances. Del Mar was an active member of the Knights of Rizal and the National Historical Commission, even raising funds to produce Gerardo de Leon’s “Noli Me Tangere.”

Albert Martinez

Albert Martinez starred in the 1997 film “Rizal sa Dapitan,” focusing on the hero’s exile and the last four years of his life in Dapitan from 1892 to 1896. Martinez showed how Rizal remained resilient during his longest imprisonment, where he continued to study and socialize. The work won production, directing, and writing accolades at the FAMAS Awards and Star Awards for Movies, among others.

Cesar Montano

Cesar Montano starred in the titular role in the 1998 historical drama “Jose Rizal,” directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya. During its time, the film was the most expensive in Philippine cinema history and was also the record-holder for Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) award wins, including Best Actor for Montano. His depiction was regarded as both accurate and humanizing, showing Rizal’s good and bad traits alike during the film’s sprawling three-hour running length and complex narrative structure.

Joel Torre

Mike De Leon’s 1999 black-andwhite mockumentary “Bayaning 3rd World” features two filmmakers discussing how to create a film about Rizal. A departure from its predecessors that tread the path of biopics, this critically acclaimed film instead is a meditation on mythmaking surrounding Rizal as portrayed by eventual Gawad Urian Best Supporting Actor Joel Torre. Interestingly, it is worth noting that Torre’s real name is José Rizalino de León Torre.

Jericho Rosales

In the 2014 historical “Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo,” Jericho Rosales imagines a Jose Rizal who illustrates the polarizing concept of a peaceful revolution against Andres Bonifacio, portrayed by Robin Padilla. Here, Rizal is only a supporting character in Bonifacio’s story that is meant to visualize their contrasting principles.

Alexandre Lucas Martin and Khalil Ramos

Most recently, Alexandre Lucas Martin and Khalil Ramos respectively portrayed young and adult versions of Rizal, again a supporting role, in the 2023 historical biographical film “GomBurZa.” This depicts Rizal’s political awakening after witnessing the public execution of the eponymous priests. Thereafter he penned his classic works, “Noli Me Tangere” and as shown in the film, “El Filibusterismo” dedicated to GomBurZa.

SENATOR Imee Marcos on Tuesday high-

lighted the enduring significance of Jose Rizal’s legacy in affirming nationhood and collective duty during rites held at the birthplace of the national hero.

The senator drew parallels between the historical fight for independence and the current

struggles faced by the nation, emphasizing that the battle for freedom is ongoing.

“The fight for freedom continues to this day, not against colonial oppression but against modern-day threats and everyday challenges,” she said, calling on Filipinos to remain vigilant and proactive in defending the country’s sovereignty and democratic principles.

the President and members of the First family.”

“I hereby tender my irrevocable resignation as Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) and co-vice chairperson of the NTF-ELCAC effective 19 July 2024,” Duterte wrote in her one-page letter.

“For a proper and orderly turn-over, I have prepared a 30-day transition plan for all the nine strands in the Central office, as well as for the different Boards and Councils chaired by DepEd and SEAMEO.”

“I shall remain of service to the country through the various programs, activities and projects of the Office of the Vice President (OVP). I thank you for the opportunity to have served as a member of your Cabinet,” she added.

Presidential Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said the resignation was promptly accepted.

“She (Duterte) declined to give a reason why. She will continue to serve as Vice President. We thank her for her service,” Garafil said.

Senate President Francis Escudero said Duterte’s resignation was “inevitable from the time her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and her siblings and allies started attacking

“It’s inevitability became more pronounced when she was already silent and not expressing her support on certain policy issues such as the West Philippine Sea, the Bagong Pilipinas Hymn, and the Quiboloy cases and attempted arrest, (among others),” Escudero said.

House Deputy Minority leader France Castro said Duterte’s resignation “marks the open war between the former allies and the upcoming escalation of hostilities between the two camps.”

In April, President Marcos came to Duterte’s defense, saying there was no need to replace her as Education Secretary amid questions on her loyalty as an alter-ego of the Chief Executive.

Mr. Marcos also assured the public their working relationship will not be affected amid the feud between the Vice President and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.

Mrs. Marcos earlier did not mince words in expressing her disappointment at the Vice President, saying the latter crossed the line for laughing at insinuations that the President is a drug user.

“Bad shot na yan sa akin (She’s a bad shot to me),” Mrs. Marcos said in an earlier interview.

The archbishop made the statement in his homily at the opening Mass of the 41st National Social Action General Assembly (Nasaga) at the Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral.

“I was hurt because my husband will do everything to protect you... You ran together right? But you will go to a rally where they called your President a drug user, right? You’re going to laugh – is that the proper thing to do?” Mrs. Marcos added.

Relations between the Marcos and Duterte families have plummeted in the past two years.

Fronting a rally of supporters in his home city Davao on January 28, Rody Duterte accused Mr. Marcos of being a “drug addict,” while his youngest son, Mayor Sebastian Duterte, said Mr. Marcos should resign.

The President hit back the next day, claiming that his predecessor’s longterm use of the powerful opioid fentanyl had taken a toll on his health.

The former president has also urged the military and police to unseat Mr. Marcos if he pursued his proposal to amend the constitution, and threatened to get his southern home region of Mindanao to secede.

The Vice President also recently questioned the police operation against Quiboloy, saying her father’s spiritual adviser – who is wanted for acts of child abuse, sexual abuse, and human trafficking, among others – was being unfairly targetted.

brella organization of diocesan social action centers.

injury and vessel damage.”

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner said the Chinese boarders were armed with swords, spears, and knives. He denounced the Chinese action as “piracy” and demanded the return of seized weapons and other equipment, as well as reparations for damaged items.

Brawner, who visited the injured sailor in Palawan, said Filipino personnel had “fought back with our bare hands” after Chinese coast guard personnel from eight vessels boarded their rigid-hulled inflatable boats.

“They took guns and other equipment, destroyed our equipment onboard, including the motors. They punctured our rigid-hulled inflatable boats,” he said.

“We are demanding that the Chinese return our rifles and our equipment and we are also demanding from them to pay for the damages that they have caused,” Brawner said.

“For me this is piracy.”

Brawner said the Chinese coast guard carried “bolos” -- a type of single-edged sword -- as well as spears and knives.

“Our troops had none of those,” he said.

Brawner awarded Seaman First Class Jeffrey Facundo who lost a thumb when the Chinese vessel landed on top of the bow.

Facundo received from Brawner the “wounded personnel medal” while visiting the sailor in Palawan.

“Magpagaling ka, huwag ka mawalan ng pag-asa, nandito kami,” Brawner said.

Facundo said he is still willing to serve in the West Philippine Sea even after the ramming incident.

“Basta may order tayo, babalik tayo.” Facundo politely told Brawner. AFP

“Of course, they can only get that with accomplices. You cannot get in the country, you cannot operate, if there will be no accomplices to be with you,” he added.

Nasaga is a biennial gathering of social action directors and workers from across the country, including some bishops of Caritas Philippines, the um-

vanced technology that Japan has to offer.

POGOs, mostly run by Chinese firms, have been linked to criminal activities, including money laundering, fraud, and illegal gambling.

“There are so many incidents that we can see that if you have the power, the money and influence, including the

Images from China’s Coast Guard shared by state media purported to show the confrontation on Monday, declaring: “The Chinese coast guard carried out boarding and inspection of a Philippine boat for the first time.” Photos showed two Chinese vessels approaching what it said was a smaller Philippine vessel from either side while another Chinese boat tailed closely behind.

They showed Chinese coast guard officials then boarding the encircled vessel. AFP was not able to independently verify the images.

China deploys coast guard and other boats to patrol the waters around Second Thomas Shoal and has turned several reefs into artificial militarised islands. AFP

guns and the goons, what you want, you get,” Lazo added.

Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan earlier called for the shutdown of POGO operations in the country.

Villegas lamented the negative impacts of POGOs have outweighed the benefits to the nation.

appreciates the Filipinos working here, especially elderly care workers,” said Vice-Speaker Kaieda.

“We are looking forward to welcoming more Filipinos to work in Japan,” he added.

Responding to this commitment, Speaker Romualdez emphasized the potential for enhanced cooperation between the two nations.

“The Philippines has a growing population, so we are more than happy for our people to come and work here after receiving the appropriate training,” he stated.

The Romualdez-led Philippine congressional delegation secured a firm commitment from top Japanese parliamentarians to facilitate the hiring of more Filipinos by the Japanese government, particularly in crucial sectors such as elderly care.

Romualdez said this will enable Filipino workers to integrate into society and benefit from the best practices and ad-

He continued, “It creates an ideal environment for Japan to continue investing in the Philippines, not just in human resources but in Japanese-trained human resources, which will further promote economic cooperation between our countries.”

In the same meeting, Nukaga committed to continued cooperation to help uplift the Philippine economy, noting the presence of 1,400 Japanese companies operating in the Philippines.

“I will continue to cooperate with the Philippines to help uplift the Philippine economy,” he said.

Romualdez expressed profound gratitude for Japan’s unwavering support for over 300,000 Filipinos residing in Japan.

“We appreciate your efforts in securing, nurturing, and accepting our Filipinos who are in Japan,” Speaker Romualdez said, citing the importance of these diplomatic efforts in fostering a strong community and ensuring the welfare of Filipino expatriates.

Of the more than 300,000 Filipinos in Japan, around 164,000 of them work in sectors such as caregiving, agriculture,

hospitality, and manufacturing. Romualdez also underscored Japan’s leading role in providing economic assistance through official development fund (ODA), which is important in the Philippines’ development and disaster response.

“We thank the government and the people of Japan for all the support and assistance through the [ODA] and now through our official security agreement,” he said.

“As the number one provider of [ODA], you have helped us in our economy in many aspects, and you have also been there for us in times of disaster and calamities,” Romualdez said.

The continuous support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) was also acknowledged, with Speaker Romualdez noting its contributions to the Philippines’ economic landscape.

He said the high-level exchanges and visits by respective heads of state, including the historic signing of the trilateral agreement in Washington D.C. involving Japan, the Philippines, and the United States, further underscored the strengthening alliance.

“We are happy because this is a great lead-up to the celebration of 70 years of our diplomatic relations in 2026,” Romualdez said.

In response, Speaker Nukaga pointed out the enduring and robust relationship between Japan and the Philippines.

“Japan and the Philippines have built a very good bilateral relationship,” Nukaga said, noting the importance of collaboration to counter authoritarian regimes and maintain the international order.

“Japan and the Philippines, both island nations, have a strong foundation to build good relations and friendly bridges,” he added.

Nukaga acknowledged the significant presence of Filipinos in Japan, particularly in his hometown of Ibaraki Prefecture.

“Ibaraki Prefecture’s Sakuragawa City and Sakai Town have sister city relations with Bacoor and Marikina, respectively, leading to about 7,000 Filipinos working in the prefecture. I would like to promote more local exchanges between our local authorities,” he vowed.

Sen. Imee Marcos

MMDA bans trucks, buses from Q Ave U-turn slot

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is prohibiting trucks and buses from using the U-turn slot under Quezon Avenue Flyover along EDSA beginning Saturday, June 22.

“U-turn slot under the EDSA Quezon Avenue flyover, both northbound and southbound, will only be passable to light vehicles. Buses, trucks, and other vehicles with a height of 2.50 meters and above will be prohibited starting 7 am on Saturday, June 22,” the MMDA stated in an advisory Wednesday.

The MMDA stated the closure of the U-turn slot is to give way to the installation of scaffolding under the flyover which will limit the vertical clearance to 2.5 meters only.

The activity is part of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) ongoing project of retrofitting and strengthening permanent bridges, including the EDSA Quezon Avenue flyover.

Affected buses and trucks are advised to take the following alternate routes:

From EDSA Southbound:

- Left turn to Quezon Ave.

- Left at Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago Ave. (formerly Agham Road)

- Left at North Ave.

- To Mindanao Ave. or EDSA

- To destination

From EDSA Northbound:

- Straight towards North Ave.

- Take a U-turn in front of Quezon City Academy to the destination

The retrofitting works are expected to be completed by August 4.

NFA sells ‘aging but good’ rice at P29 per kilogram

By Othel V. Campos

THE National Food Authority (NFA) is selling aging rice stocks to low-income Filipinos P29 per kilogram (kg).

Department of Agriculture (DA)

Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. underscored that the “aging but good” NFA rice stocks will be offered through the KADIWA network for a limited period.

“This program primarily aims to provide rice at an affordable price of P29 per kilo for the vulnerable sectors of society,” he said.

While slightly higher than the previous P25 per kilo price, the discounted rate remains significantly lower than current market

prices, he added.

About 6.9 million households or 34 million individuals from the vulnerable sectors, comprised of persons with disabilities, solo parents, and senior citizens, stand to benefit from the initiative. Each beneficiary can purchase up to 10 kilos per month.

The NFA held a pilot run dubbed “Bigas 29” which is in line with the government’s vision of a food-secure Philippines with affordable and accessible basic necessities.

LGBTQ+ SUPPORTER. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte leads the launching of ‘TiboQC,’ a federation of lesbians in Quezon City on Wednesday, June 19.  TiboQC will participate in LGBTQ+ activities during the celebration of Pride Month at the Quezon Memorial Circle on Sunday. Danny Pata

Online dating turns terrifying for Chinese teen in Taguig

A 19-year-old Chinese national fell victim to a kidnap-for-ransom gang in Taguig City after meeting a woman on a dating app.

The victim, a resident of Manila, agreed to meet the woman named “Izzy” at a fast food place and then visited her house in Barangay Sta. Ana. However, upon arrival, the victim was confronted by five men who assaulted, blindfolded, and restrained him.

Initially, the kidnappers demanded P5 million in ransom from the victim’s father, but after negotiations, the amount was reduced to P1.1 million.

The ransom was arranged to be collected by a person named Sean at a mall in Bonifacio Global City. After the ransom exchange, the victim was released in Angono, Rizal.

The victim, being a resident of Manila, reported the incident to the Manila Police District (MPD) Station 11, which then referred the case to the Taguig City Police Station.

A joint team from the Southern Police

District (SPD), Taguig Police, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti Kidnapping Action Team - Luzon Field Unit conducted an operation resulting in the arrest of two suspects, identified as Erwin and Richard.

During the operation, a .38 caliber revolver with ammunition was also recovered.

The victim positively identified the suspects at the police station. Formal complaints for violation of Article 267 of the Revised Penal Code (Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention) and Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) were filed against the suspects before the Taguig City Prosecutor’s Office.

According to SPD director Brig. Gen. Leon Victor Rosete, the investigation is ongoing, and efforts to pursue the remaining suspects are underway.

Authorities encourage anyone with information about the suspects at large to come forward. Joel E. Zurbano

Tiu Laurel reminded the NFA Council that the program’s implementation, given the monthly target volume, procurement cost, and selling price, would incur a social cost between P1.39 billion and P1.53 billion per month.

To secure supply for the cheaper rice program, the DA plans to import 363,697 metric tons (MT) of rice to supplement national buffer stocks and secure 559,535 MT of palay (unhusked rice) directly from Filipino farmers.

The estimated cost of securing rice buffer stocks for approximately 19 days of national consumption is P28.39 billion.

The government targets a nationwide launch of the Bigas-29 program in early July.

IN BRIEF

Sandigan seeking new presiding judge

THE Judicial and Bar Council has announced the opening for applications or recommendations to the posts of presiding justice of the Court of Appeals (CA) and the Sandiganbayan. Incumbent CA Presiding Justice Mariflor P. Castillo is set to retire compulsorily on Sept. 21, 2024, while Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Amparo M. Cabotaje Tang’s retirement will be on Nov. 8, 2024. In an advisory, the JBC said the deadline for the submission of applications or recommendations is at 4:30 p.m. on July 29, 2024. The JBC is a constitutional office that accepts, screens, nominates appointments in the judiciary, the Legal Education Board, and in the offices of the Ombudsman, Deputy Ombudsman, and Special Prosecutor. It is headed by

Gabriela, Angkas team up on Pride Month

sa Kulayaan” event on June 19.

“The LGBTQ+ community exists within other marginalized sectors such as workers, farmers, and the urban poor,” said Rep. Arlene Brosas, the group’s nominee in Congress said. Over 100 LGBTQ+ riders from Angkas participated in the One Billion Rising dance along with women and LGBTQ+ advocates. Brosas in her keynote speech emphasized the importance of solidarity across all gender equality and anti-discrimination movements. The event held at Angkas Tagumpay Center in Pasig City also served as a platform to push for the passage of the SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics) Equality Bill, which aims to provide equal rights and protections for all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. This includes advocating for equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and other essential services. Maricel V. Cruz

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2024

IN BRIEF

7 minors rescued from 2 pimps in Angeles City

A COMPOSITE team of law enforcers has rescued seven minors from two alleged pimps in Barangay Pampang, Angeles City, on Tuesday afternoon.

The rescuing team have swooped down on a suspected prostitution den inside the Paran Garden Village, Barangay Pampang in Angeles City to rescue the youngsters from the crime group.. Charges for violation of RA 9208, known as the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, are being readied against the two pimps identified only as Ash, female, 16 , and a resident of Barangay Cutud; and one alias Lia, also female, of Barangay Pulungbulu.

Medical personnel of the Child Protection Unit of the Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center, headed by Dr. Froilan Canlas, conducted the medical examination on the victims.

The rescued minors are now in the custody of the Angeles City Social Welfare and Development Office. Butch Gunio

DDB marks World Drug Day with transport group

THE Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) has tapped the transport sector for its annual celebration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT), better known as the World Drug Day on June 26.

The DDB partnered with various transportation network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Quezon City government to host the “Riders Against Drugs” motorcade meant to drum up community involvement in the drive against drug abuse.

The motorcade will kick off at 5:30 am, June 26, from the PDEA-DDB Building along NIA Northside Road and proceed to the Philippine Public Safety College where TNVS drivers will gather for a series of training sessions.

This year’s theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention,” stressed the need to adopt an imperative, scientific and evidence-based approach prioritizing prevention and treatment. Rio N. Araja

PCG, SE Mindanao sets off recruitment

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District in Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) started on Tuesday the screening of applicants in the PCG Nationwide Recruitment 2024. This crucial phase involves a panel interview aimed at assessing the applicants’ capabilities and determining their suitability for PCG service.

The deliberation board was headed by Capt. Anuar Inidal, CGDSEM deputy commander, with other CGDSEM officers as members.

The PCG’s recruitment process has been extensive, starting from initial applications, physical and aptitude tests, to medical and dental examinations. Vince Lopez

Negros evacuees told to go home as volcano calms down

By Caloy Lozada

THE municipal government of La Castellana, Negros Occidental has given the green light for 448 evacuees to return to their homes after Mount Kanlaon stayed calm, even as Alert Level 2 remained in the area.

Mayor Rhummyla Nicor-Mangilimutan announced that residents from Barangay Mansalanao, who were initially evacuated due to ashfall and lahar flows, were permitted to go back home.

However, she emphasized that while the volcano has calmed down, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) still warns of possible return of restiveness. The mayor assured the public that their safety remained a top priority.

“Even though the volcano is stable for now, we must remain vigilant. The alert level indicates that we cannot rule out further activity,” Mangilimutan stated.

Canlaon City Mayor Jose Cardenas had previously authorized the return of 263 evacuees from Barangays Pula, Masulog, and Linothangan, which are located within the four-kilometer permanent danger zone surrounding the active volcano.

Edna Lhou Masicampo, spokesperson of the Canlaon City government, confirmed that the evacuees were informed about their clearance to go home.

“We have informed the evacuees that they are now allowed to return to their homes. However, they must be ready to evacuate again if the volcano shows signs of renewed activity,” Masicampo said.

Solon seeks revival of garment, textile sector to boost PH exports

50 PWDs have taste of work at Subic freeport

By Butch Gunio

SUBIC Bay Freeport – Some 50 persons with disabilities (PWDs) experienced work immersion in various offices of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and other business establishments here and in Olongapo City.

The initiative came after the SBMA recently forged a partnership with the local government of Olongapo City to facilitate the work immersion of PWDs at the Freeport zone.

The SBMA’s Labor department, as well as the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) of Olongapo City, the Work Immersion Program for PWDs in Government and the Private Business Establishments sought to provide the PWDs a tenday actual work experience.

According to Labor department manager Melvin Varias, there were at least 50 PWDs who were given the chance to work, with 34 of them deployed to companies inside the freeport Zone.

“Of the 34 PWDs, ten worked at the Grand United Property and Service Management, Inc.; eight were sent to the Subic Bay Travelers Hotel and Event Center; four worked at the Eddie and Julie G Food Corp. at the Jollibee Main Gate; three worked at the SBMA’s Financial Planning and Budget Department; three went to the SBMA’s Accounting Department; five worked here at the SBMA Labor Department; and one was sent to the SBMA Office Services Department,” Varias said. Meanwhile, PDAO Head Rizalino Jose bared that the proposal for the Work Im-

Albay creates technical working group on renewable energy dev’t

By Rosas Olarte

ALBAY is charting a path to become one of the Philippines’ renewable energy hubs by 2030 with its creation of a technical working group (TWG) tasked to develop plans towards achieving this goal.

Albay Gov. Edcel Greco Lagman recently issued an executive order officially establishing the TWG headed by provincial planning and development coordinator Arnold Onrubia as chairman.

Onrubia will be working with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay, department heads of the provincial government, as well as like-minded private organizations to develop a renewable energy roadmap for the province.

Frequent power outages have been plaguing Albay, disrupting daily life and economic activities despite efforts

of the Albay Electric Cooperative Inc. (ALECO), the lone electricity provider in the province.

Albay’s current energy infrastructure struggles to keep up with demand, even with the presence of two geothermal power plants, according to Onrubia. To address this, the local government aims to tap potential renewable energy sources.

“We have the wind and two geothermal power plants here in Albay alone and that includes wind energy sources,” Onrubia said.

Onrubia noted that they have already identified promising sites to generate wind energy in the towns of Rapu-Rapu, Camalig, Pio Duran, parts of Polangui, Guinobatan and San Miguel Island in Tabaco City. He said these areas could potentially harness up to 10 gigawatts of electricity.

mersion Program was conceptualized in March of this year. He said that during this program, PWDs will be given opportunities to value, experience and prove their worth as equals with the typical workforce.

“Our target PWD beneficiaries range from mild to manageable disabilities,” he added.

SBMA chairman and administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño lauded the work immersion program for PWDs, citing that the Subic Bay Freeport was the perfect venue for PWDs to experience equality in the workplace.

He said the PWDs’ daily minimum wage salary rate of P580 will be shouldered by the Office of City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr., adding that the first batch of internship was held last May 27 to June 7, while the second batch was slated June 10-21, 2024.

By Maricel V. Cruz

ALEGISLATOR from the Bicol Region pushes the revival of the country’s garment and textile industry, once a premier dollar earner, as part of a major effort by the Marcos administration to scale up Philippine exports and meet its export targets

“The DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) and BOI (Board of Investments) along with other concerned agencies need to work overtime with the private sector in revisiting the garment and textile industry roadmap under the PEDP (Philippine Export Development Plan) of the Marcos administration, with an eye to invigorating the clothing and apparel business—and reestablishing the Philippines’ presence in the world market as a major producer and exporter of these goods,” Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte said.

“The government must take decisive steps to help this once sunshine $3-billion industry regain its footing, and revive the Philippines’ premier position in the lucrative global market, especially at this time when investors and enterprises are leaving No. 1 world garments producer and exporter China and relocating their businesses to our Asian neighbors like Vietnam and India,” Villafuerte added.

The lawmaker himself was engaged in the export business before he entered politics two decades ago.

He said the roadmap for higher and inclusive growth for the garments sector under the PEDP should be revisited with a view to reviving it, and to “sharpen anew our erstwhile global competitiveness in this business and entice foreign investors now leaving China to consider the Philippines as an ideal place in the region to relocate to and set up shop in.”

For starters, he said the Marcos administration should seriously consider the proposal of local industry players for the government to facilitate the construction of new textile factories, ahead of the anticipated increase in demand as soon as the Philippines forges a free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) on apparel and other similar goods.

REMEMBERING RIZAL’S BIRTHDAY. A group of avid followers of the national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, celebrates his 163rd birthday on June 19, 1861 with prayers and flowers offered at his monument at the Rizal Park in Luneta, Ermita, Manila. Danny Pata

ASSISTANCE FOR UNIFORMED PERSONNEL . The office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez represented by Deputy Secretary General Sofonias Gabonada Jr. and Davao de Oro 1st District Rep. Maricar Zamora turns over P200,000 worth of food items and P100,000 cash to Philippine Army Maj. Gen. Allan Hambala at the 10th Infantry Division headquarters in Camp Gen. Manuel Yan Sr. in Brgy. Tuburan, Mawab, Davao de Oro. Similar donations were also handed over to Davao del Norte provincial police chief Col. Alexander Serrano Jr.

WATTAH WATTAH FESTIVAL. Devotees of the St. John the Baptist church do a street dance as a sneak preview of the celebration of Wattah Wattah Festival in honor of their patron saint set on June 24 of every year. Meanwhile, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and other local officials attend the turnover of an icon of St. John the Baptist to San Juan City Hall to signal the start the annual religious festivity.

OPINION

Taking a long view

(Part 2)

REACTING to survey findings about food inflation, the administration has taken proposed initiatives to address the problem, from an administrative order that directs agencies to expedite permits for importation, to an HoR-rushed revision of the 2019 RTA now with the Senate, and now the NEDA-rushed slash on tariffs from 35 percent to 15 percent.

That shows how much of a political commodity rice is.

The administration realized the huge drop in its approval is due to food inflation and higher overall cost of living.

It knows amending the RTL is not going to face easy sailing in the Senate; if at all, that would take time.

With the mid-term elections coming in 2025, all efforts will be rushed to prevent rice from going further up, assuming it cannot be tapered down.

Prior to martial law, presidential elections were largely affected by the price of rice.

In President Carlos Garcia’s time, it was 80 centavos per ganta or “salop” (which is equivalent to 2.8 kilos), but had to be increased to a peso, which contributed to his failure to win re-election.

Under President Diosdado Macapagal, it became P1.20, and his successor Ferdinand Marcos made that an election issue too.

Marcos won, and ruled for the next 20 years, during which time we adopted the metric system, where rice sold at an average 1.50 to 2 pesos per kilo (or an equivalent 4.20 to 5.60 when rice was bought by the ganta or “salop”).

In fine, over the last 40 years, from Marcos Sr. to Marcos Jr., the price of rice per kilo has risen 33.33 times over.

As in the past, measures to deal with rice prices have mostly been reactive.

From the defunct National Rice Corporation (NARIC) to the Rice and Corn Administration (RCA) to the National Grains Administration (NGA) to the now castrated National Food Administration (NFA).

After martial law, when Vietnam and Thailand produced bumper crops of rice, the default reaction whenever domestic production was low was to import from these ASEAN countries.

Until RTA took effect, the import monopoly was lodged with the NFA which, due to financial constraints. allowed the private traders to import under a scheme called Private Sector Financing, where they could avail themselves of zero tariffs from ASEAN sources.

With the RTA, which the House wants to reverse, only the private sector imports rice.

Now, slashing the tariff by more than half has raised eyebrows, particularly because the “emergency” being cited will last up to 2028, or when the current government ends its term.

NEDA officials could not answer Senator Imee Marcos in a recent Senate agriculture committee hearing when she

Shunned

on rice

asked why the reduction to 15 percent will last until 2028.

In the same hearing, the DA, the agency primarily responsible for food supply, stated they actually recommended a 50 percent tariff on rice.

Aside from virtual admission our domestic production cannot catch up with consumption needs till 2028, what if rice prices in the world market softens;,for instance, if India has a bumper crop next year or thereafter and begins exporting rice again.

First things first: what is the current measure of per capita consumption?

Is it back to 132 kilos per person per annum? Why is the US Department of Agriculture using a higher multiplier, 141 kilos per capita?

On a medium to longterm basis, can we not re-introduce other staples into the Filipino diet?

And furthermore, can we over the medium and long term reduce that per capita consumption of rice?

Japanese and Taiwanese eat much less rice at 46 to 53 kilos per person per year, because they consume more vegetables and fish, while our poor gorge on imported rice and imported wheat noodles.

We are now more than 115 million, and by 2025, almost 117 million. But how many are residing abroad, being OFWs and seafarers? They still figure in our population data, but they do not consume rice here.

How much do we actually use for seeds and feeds, which we input into total demand?

Having determined a correct per capita consumption, the next step should be an inventory of our palay farmlands, as to what is irrigated, what is rain-fed, and what is very expensive to irrigate.

Also, where does palay grow well because the soil is hospitable and where does it not, which means we perhaps should devote such lands to other higher value crops, where farmers can earn more?

Then again, also on a medium to longterm basis, can we not re-introduce other staples into the Filipino diet?

As in white corn which was the staple in most of the Visayas until Masagana 99?

And camote, cassava, even saba? These are even more nutritious, and in some parts of the country, they grow abundantly well.

This would need a whole of country approach, from DepEd teaching children better nutritional values, to LGUs promoting other staple crops, to the DA and DOST joining efforts. (To be continued)

by West, Russian army deserters live in fear

ASTANA, Kazakhstan – Russian officer Farkhad Ziganshin had prepared himself for a life of military service since a young age. He could never have imagined that one day he would become a deserter and flee the country.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine changed everything.

“I don’t support what’s happening in Ukraine, I don’t support the government we’ve had for so many years,” Ziganshin, 24, told AFP in Kazakhstan, where he fled in Sept. 2022 after Vladimir Putin ordered Russia’s first military mobilization since World War II.

Faced with a choice between taking part in a war of aggression or going to prison for refusing to fight in Ukraine, hundreds of deserters and draft dodgers have fled to neighboring ex-Soviet countries where they are now stuck in limbo. Russian authorities have opened a criminal case against Ziganshin for abandoning his unit. He does not feel safe in Kazakhstan and fears he might be deported to Russia.

But it is hard for men like him to seek refuge in the West because many Russian servicemen do not have the Russian passport that allows travel to Europe and only have documents that permit them to reach neighbors such as Kazakhstan or Armenia.

Anti-war activists urge European and US policymakers to do more to help men like Ziganshin, who are hunted at home and viewed with suspicion in the West. While in Kazakhstan, Ziganshin was briefly arrested twice, most recently in June.

He is not giving up, however. He openly speaks of his opposition to Putin and the war in Ukraine with foreign journalists.

Hundreds of deserters and draft dodgers have fled to neighboring exSoviet countries where they are now stuck in limbo

Together with other opponents of the war he has recorded videos to encourage Russians to flee the battlefield as part of an initiative dubbed “Farewell to arms.”

In one such video, a serviceman sets fire to a uniform bearing the letter “Z,” a symbol of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, before heading for the nearest forest.

“No one attacked your homeland,” says a message at the end of the clip. “We have

Are our workers getting a raw deal?

IS THE Philippines one of the worst countries for working people?

If we’re to believe the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), an organization that promotes and defends the rights of workers, that’s true.

For the eighth consecutive year, ITUC has named the Philippines as one of the 10 worst countries for workers.

The group’s Global Rights Index 2024 report released on June 12 showed the Philippines receiving a rating of 5—the same as in 2023—on a scale of 1 (sporadic violation of rights) to 5+ (no guarantee of rights due to the breakdown of the rule of law).

The rating is based on the degree of respect for workers’ rights, with violations recorded annually from April to March.

Despite laws that covered labor rights, the group said, “workers have effectively no access to these rights and are therefore exposed to autocratic regimes and unfair labor practices.”

ITUC noted 22 trade unionists were killed in six countries, including the Philippines, where workers and union members remained “vulnerable to vi-

olent attacks, being blacklisted by the government, abductions, and arbitrary arrests.”

The killing of two prominent Filipino trade unionists in 2023, “fostered a climate of fear and persecution, silencing the collective voice of workers” and workers across various sectors still faced significant obstacles when attempting to form trade unions, ITUC said.

—“—

We need to remind the government the 1987 Constitution calls on the State to affirm labor as a primary economic force as well as to protect the rights of workers

Apart from the Philippines, ITUC listed nine other countries where workers face threats to their jobs and personal safety: Bangladesh, Belarus, Ecuador, Egypt, Eswatini, Guatemala, Myanmar, Tunisia and Turkiye.

“It is a national disgrace that our

OVER the last two weeks, social media was abuzz about a projected P250 traffic congestion fee that motorists may have to pay to enter Baguio City’s central business district.

We have actually been hearing about this for some time from the city and MPT Mobility, a Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation subsidiary contracted by the city in a P2.5 billion deal to solve the city’s traffic problems. Also, AI or artificial intelligence, has been liberally thrown around to manage what is being called the Baguio City Smart Urban Mobility Project.

But we have to remember that AI does not simply sprout from out of nowhere to manage the city’s SUMP.

Data must be gathered and inputted into a computer program that will be developed to help manage the project.

Ordinarily, traffic engineers would first rely on conventional tools of traffic management to solve traffic problems before jumping into extreme measures like imposing congestion fees.

That is not to say we should not take advantage of what new technologies can offer but it would be better to be gradual in the long run.

In the case of Baguio City, there are still conventional measures that can be taken that can improve traffic flow.

This is why many people are asking whether charging congestion fee is necessary. They cannot seem to understand the need to charge motorists entering the CBD considering the current traffic flow is still tolerable to them.

That there is some traffic congestion

already refused to take part in a criminal war. You should too.”

‘Live with dignity’

Ziganshin went to a military boarding school at the age of 10 and graduated from a military academy that prepares Russian tank commanders. He describes the Russian armed forces as a “great school of life.”

But when Russia invaded Ukraine, he realized this was not the army he wanted to dedicate his life to. He managed to resign, only to learn the next day that a military mobilization had been declared and that he would be deployed to Ukraine, along with around 300,000 other men.

Ziganshin packed up in a hurry and fled to neighboring Kazakhstan. Afraid of being sent back to Moscow, where he will be criminally prosecuted, he has been trying to acquire a visa to travel to France.

in some roads in the city during certain hours of the day and during long weekends is accepted.

But the city never gave any acceptable justification for having to go “nuclear” in its effort to solve the city’s traffic problems with the residents shouldering the burden.

In traffic studies, collect data first before anything else. Observation alone will not be enough to do the trick

Available government data show there are 302 kilometers of public roads in the city with a vehicle registration of 58,000 which translates to vehicle density of about 192 vehicles per kilometer of road compared to the NCR of 565 vehicles.

This figure if one understands traffic will suggest that traffic in the city can still be managed more efficiently.

That is if the city traffic managers know and understand traffic.

But the density numbers do not tell the whole story.

This is because vehicles from La Trinidad use Baguio Roads and vice versa, not to mention incoming vehicles from out of towners and those vehicles from the city travelling out.

These affect the dynamics of the city’s traffic.

Unfortunately, we have not seen any

Kazakh rights campaigner Artur Alkhastov said Russian deserters stand virtually no chance of receiving refugee status in the Central Asian country.

“We’ve got really strong diplomatic ties with Russia,” said Alkhastov.

Campaigners have also accused local authorities of facilitating the arrests of Russians who have sought refuge in Kazakhstan.

Mikhail Zhilin of the Russian Federal Guard Service fled to Kazakhstan to avoid the draft, illegally crossing the border. He was sent back to Russia and last year sentenced to six and a half years in prison.

Russian contract soldier Kamil Kasimov, who also fled to Kazakhstan, this spring was detained and taken to a Russian military base in the town of Priozyorsk in central Kazakhstan, according to activists.

country has been listed among the world’s 10 worst countries for eight consecutive years,” according to the labor group Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (Sentro).

“This black mark on our nation’s record threatens to unravel all the investment efforts the Marcos government has been painstakingly courting.” The group tallied a total 72 union members killed for their union activities from 2016 to 2023, How would the Department of Labor and Employment react to this report?

We’re sure Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma has something to say about the conclusions of this report, perhaps even reiterate the national government’s commitment to the protection of the rights and welfare of the country’s labor sector.

But we also need to remind the government the 1987 Constitution calls on the State to affirm labor as a primary economic force as well as to protect the rights of workers, including their right to self-organization, collective bargaining and negotiations, and peaceful concerted activities, the very rights that ITUC urges our authorities to uphold at all times.

publication of traffic surveys or any hard traffic data collected by the city and MPT Mobility. Yet, both seem to know exactly what to do which is putting the cart ahead of the horse. In traffic studies, collect data first before anything else. Observation alone will not be enough to do the trick.

The most common question asked is whether a motorist who passes Session Road three times a day will pay P750? There is also talk about exemptions for senior drivers but how will this be done?

A traffic CCTV for instance cannot distinguish between a senior citizen driver and one who is not because all that the CCTV will catch are plate numbers.

With all the doubts and questions, we go back to the basic question whether the city has done everything available to solve its traffic problems before resorting to charging motorists P250 to enter the CBD. As a city resident who drives around the city roads every day, the answer is no. Without being disrespectful to the people managing the city traffic, traffic tools are still available out there like road engineering projects if the city’s traffic managers are more knowledgeable and imaginative.

With what MPT mobility is claiming that it can do, one wonders why MPTC cannot make its toll roads truly modern so that when there are congestions AI can take over instead of the old fashioned traffic enforcers.

If MPTC cannot do it on its own road, how can they do it in Baguio?

No wonder many are deeply suspicious about this deal. The city should study this project more.

Ziganshin shudders at the thought of being sent back to Russia where he faces a long prison term. His Kazakh residence permit has expired.

“I’m young, I want to do something with my life, I want to live with dignity,” he said.

Other Russian army deserters have fled to Armenia in the South Caucasus. But like Kazakhstan, activists say the country hosting a Russian military base is also not a safe destination.

Two Russian deserters have been detained by Russian military personnel in Armenia over the past two years. European countries remain out of bounds, said Ivan Chuviliaev, spokesman for anti-war Russian project Idite Lesom (“Get lost”), which has been helping Russians to desert and leave the country.

“They have no documents to put a visa in,” he said.

‘Salami-slicing plan’ by China raises tensions, say analysts

BEIJING – Ramming boats, building militarized islands and threatening perceived trespassers -- China is escalating confrontations with the Philippines to push it out of the South China Sea, analysts say.

One of the most perilous flash points between the two nations is a submerged reef called the Second Thomas Shoal, where in 1999 the Philippine navy intentionally marooned a decrepit World War II ship to assert the country’s territorial claims.

Still home to a small garrison of Filipino marines, the crumbling BRP Sierra Madre sits around 200 kilometers from the western Philippine island of Palawan and over 1,000 kilometers from China’s nearest major landmass. It requires frequent resupply missions, which China’s coast guard has sought to thwart by firing water cannon at Philippine boats -- and sometimes colliding with them.

The Philippines on Wednesday accused China’s coast guard of ramming and boarding its navy boats at the Second Thomas Shoal.

A Filipino sailor lost a thumb in the confrontation, according to the Philippine navy.

“Beijing is seeking to take control of the Second Thomas Shoal,” said Helena Legarda, lead analyst at the Mercator Institute of China Studies in Berlin.

“(China) is waiting for the ship to collapse or to become unliveable, forcing Manila to remove its contingent of marines.”

That would leave Beijing poised to seize control of the reef, Legarda said, strengthening its foothold in a waterway rich in oil and gas deposits and through which trillions of dollars in trade passes every year.

Beijing claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea despite competing claims from the Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations. AFP

Putin, Kim ink strategic alliance treaty

MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a “strategic partnership treaty” following their talks in Pyongyang Wednesday, Russian state media reported.

Putin signalled earlier the two nations had prepared a document that would “form the basis” of their relations for years to come, but did not provide any detail.

“Russia and North Korea have signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty,” the RIA Novosti news agency reported, citing a correspondent.

The two leaders also exchanged gifts during the visit, with Kim receiving a teaset and a luxury Russian-made Aurus car, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said.

Ushakov did not say what gifts Putin received, but hinted they were related

to Putin’s image, “including busts.”

The Kremlin said on Monday the treaty would replace previous bilateral documents and declarations signed in 1961, 2000 and 2001.

Moscow and Pyongyang’s ties have sparked concern in the West, which believes Russia has been procuring and using North Korean weaponry to wage its military offensive in Ukraine.

Kim said earlier relations with Russia had reached a new high point, and that Putin’s visit would strengthen their countries’ “ardent friendship.”

After a welcoming ceremony in Kim Il Sung square, featuring a military

band and mass synchronized dancing, Putin also invited his host to visit Russia. Kim earlier greeted Putin at the airport, with the pair hugging on a red carpet, underscoring the deepening relationship that has sparked concern in Seoul and Washington.

The United States and its allies have accused North Korea of providing ammunition and missiles to Russia for its war in Ukraine, and there are worries Putin’s visit will lead to further military deliveries.

Putin said at the start of Wednesday’s talks a “new foundation document” was ready to be signed that would set the framework for relations in the long term, as Kim spoke glowingly of the allies’ ties.

- SP. PROC. NO. R-QZN-24-02235-SP PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY, the CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL, and the QUEZON CITY LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR, Respondents. x-----------------------------------------------------x ORDER AND NOTICE OF HEARING A verified petition was filed by Rhea Jean Apatan Yoshii, alleging inter alia that: sometime in 2015, the petitioner was introduced to the private respondent Koichiro Yoshii by a common friend; in 2015, the petitioner and the private respondent would communicate daily which led to the latter falling in love and courting the petitioner; the private respondent made his intensions clear with the petitioner that he wanted her to be his girlfriend; they continued their long distance relationship for a few months, and on April 2015 Koichiro Yoshii went to the Philippines to visit the petitioner; on August 2015, the petitioner got pregnant and five months later, the private respondent proposed to the petitioner and invited her to stay in Japan; on February 2016, they got married in Fukuoka City, Fukuoka, Japan and had their marriage registered with the Philippine Consulate General Osaka-Kobe, Japan on August 24, 2016; at first, everything was going well with their marriage and they were blessed with a daughter named Kazumi Apatan Yoshii, who was born on March 11, 2016; the first year as a married couple was nothing but happiness; however, their marriage turned sour when they realized that they did not know each other all to well; aside from the fact that they were having problems understanding each another due to language barrier and age gap, it also turned out that the private respondent, who is a perfectionist would always argue with the petitioner about small things; the petitioner tried to understand Koichiro Yoshii but the latter always finds a way to downgrade the petitioner, leading to the decline of their marriage; sometime 2019, Koichiro Yoshii decided to leave the petitioner and his daughter and he would rather stay in his office than their family home; the petitioner tried to understand the private respondent for the sake of their daughter and hoped for the marriage and their family; however, sometime in the year 2022 this hope vanished when the petitioner learned that Koichiro Yoshii had illicit affairs with another women prior to and even before their marriage; the petitioner was faced with overwhelming sadness and confusion which led to her desire to seek divorce and put an end to their relationship; after careful considerations, the private respondent agreed to file for a divorce; their choice was born out of necessity to find a path forward that would allow both of them to move on from a marriage that is clearly not working for them; on October 5, 2022, the Notification of Divorce was filed at the Office of the Mayor of Fukuoka City, Kyushu, Japan; consequently, a Certificate of Acceptance was issued by the same Office; the Divorce of the petitioner Rhea Jean Apatan Yoshii and private respondent Koichiro

GENEVA – Israel’s repeated use of heavy bombs in the densely-populated Gaza Strip indicates repeated violations of the laws of war, the UN said Wednesday, highlighting six attacks that killed at least 218 people. In a fresh report, the United Nations rights office provided details on the six attacks, which it said were emblematic of a concerning pattern, involving the suspected use of up to 2,000-pound bombs on residential buildings, a school, refugee camps and a market.

The rights office said it had verified 218 deaths in those attacks, which were carried out in the early months of the war that erupted in

Gaza on Oct. 7, but said it had information indicating the number of fatalities “could be much higher”.

“The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid or at the very least minimise to every extent civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel’s bombing campaign,” UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement.

The report concludes that the series of Israeli strikes, exemplified by the six attacks carried out between Oct. 9 and Dec. 2, suggested that Israel’s military had “repeatedly violated fundamental principles of the laws of war”, the statement said.

The summit is their second meeting in a year, after Kim took his bulletproof train to Russia’s far east last September for a summit with Putin at a space port.

Experts have warned the trip is likely to focus on defence ties, although the leaders are expected to publicly highlight cooperation in the economic sector as any arms deals would violate United Nations Security Council resolutions banning Pyongyang’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

“Russia requires North Korea’s weapon support due to the prolonged war in Ukraine, while North Korea needs Russia’s support in terms of food, energy, and advanced weapons to alleviate the pressure from sanctions,” Koh Yu-hwan, North Korean studies emeritus professor at Dongguk University told AFP. AFP

“Relations between our countries are entering a new era of blossoming, which cannot be compared even with the period of Korean-Soviet relations of the last century,” Kim said, according to Russian news agencies.

Lai says Taiwan ‘will not bow’ to China’s force

TAIPEI – Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said Wednesday China was attempting to force the self-ruled island into submission but it would not bow to pressure. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has said it will never renounce the use of force to bring it under Beijing’s control.

In recent years, Beijing has upped military and political pressure on the Taipei government, with the latest show of force coming three days after Lai’s inauguration, when China conducted war games around the island.

Speaking at a Wednesday press conference marking his first month in office, Lai said: “The annexation of Taiwan is a national policy of the People’s Republic of China.”

“In addition to military force, they have increasingly employed non-traditional methods of coercion to try to force Taiwan into submission,” he said.

“However, Taiwan will not bow to the pressure. The people of Taiwan will resolutely defend national sovereignty and uphold the democratic and free constitutional way of life.”

China had said the war games -launched days after Lai’s May 20 inauguration -- were “punishment” for his inaugural speech, which Beijing dubbed a “confession of Taiwan independence”.

Encircling Taiwan with warships, fighter jets and coastguard vessels, China said the three-day drills -- dubbed Joint Sword-2024A -- were a test of its ability to seize control of the island.

After the exercises, Beijing vowed military pressure would continue “as long as ‘Taiwan independence’ provocations continue.”

Taiwan -- separated from China by a narrow 180-kilometer strait -- has its own government, military and currency.

As China has increased pressures around the island, Taiwan has sought to strengthen economic ties with friendly countries while ramping up military purchases from the United States, a key partner. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

PARTNERSHIP, EMBRACE. In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin (left) shakes hands with North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un during a meeting in Pyongyang on Wednesday. Putin enjoyed a red carpet welcome, a military ceremony and an embrace from Kim during the state visit to Pyongyang where they both pledged to forge closer ties. AFP

Chatri: ONE Championship nearing profitability

AFTER breaching the billiondollar valuation mark earlier this year, ONE Championship is set to pass another major landmark in its 12-year run.

The promotion is set to be profitable by the end of the year, a huge benchmark for the company that started in 2011 and that has created a combat sports renaissance throughout Asia.

Earlier this year, Forbes Magazine listed ONE as the fourth-most valuable combat sports organization on the globe at US$1.3 billion, stating that ONE is “one of the fastest growing combat sports promotions in the world.”

“Through a combination of strong revenue growth and good cost optimisation, ONE will achieve profitability and positive cash flow in the third or fourth quarter of this year,” ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong said.

“Our run rate revenues will approach US$200 million this year, representing a 50 percent increase from 2023.”

The expected record-high revenues stem from the aggressive moves that ONE has made over the last few years. It also has a stronghold on the Thai market, where it has been holding the weekly ONE Friday Fights series inside Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.

This year, the promotion also marked its return to Japan and the Middle East, with ONE’s maiden show in Qatar turning out to be a success.

ONE also has two shows lined up for the United States this September and November, making this the busiest year for the company.

“In 2024, ONE continues to set record highs in viewership metrics with 60 live events, underpinning the sharp increase in revenues from multiple countries,” Sityodtong added.

steals per game. From 1975 to 1984, he amassed 752 career steals in 126 games and contributed to two championship teams -- Royal Tru-Orange under coach Ed Ocampo in 1979 and San Miguel Beer with coach Tommy Manotoc in 1982. Before his PBA career, Martires was a standout point guard for the Philippine national team. He played a crucial role in the 1973 ABC Championship (now the FIBA Asia Tournament) in Manila, where the team triumphed over South Korea, 90-78. His teammates included legends like Francis Arnaiz, Manny Paner, Bogs Adornado, Sonny Jaworski, Jimmy Mariano, Alberto Guidaben, and Ramon Fernandez, who later became a four-time MVP in the PBA.

“Rest in peace with eternal love, my dear friend and former national basketball team and San Miguel teammate, Pasig City Councilor and former Vice Mayor Yoyong Martires. You have served your constituents well,” Fernandez posted.

“I will forever be proud of your accomplishments. Your legacy as a sportsman and public servant will remain an inspiration to many. Maayong pagpahuway, Yong!” Martires also represented the Philippines at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Germany.

Following his basketball career, Martires joined the entertainment industry, gaining fame as a comedian with his memorable line, “Hindi ako galit, nagpapaliwanag lang.”

He then ventured into politics, serving as a councilor for the City of Pasig from 1995 to 2005 and again from 2013 to 2022.

Vinny Marcos leads ceremonial launch of world volleyball meet

PRESIDENTIAL son

William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos exuded pride and confidence as he led the ceremonial launch of the country’s first-time and solo hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025 on Tuesday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

“We’re proud and confident of hosting the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025,” said the 27-yearold youngest son of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in the ceremony held during the break between the opening-day matches of the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Men’s Week 3 at the Pasay City arena.

Marcos chairs the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the world championship set September 12 to 28 both at the MOA Arena and the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Volleyball World CEO Finn Taylor formally turned over the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025 ceremonial ball to Marcos and to LOC co-chairs Senators Allan Peter Cayetano and Pia Cayetano, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann.

Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, as LOC president and CEO, mastered the ceremony, which was also graced by Asian Volleyball Confederation president Rita Sibowo and Pasay City

Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano. Witnessing the event were top officials of Volleyball World and VNL and FIVB who are overseeing the country’s third-time hosting of the VNL.

“The ball is now very much in play for the country’s hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025,” Suzara said. “Dozens of activities are lined up ahead of the hosting

of the world’s most prestigious and important volleyball tournament.”

“We will be a sports tourism powerhouse,” said Cayetano, also PNVF’s chairman emeritus.

Djokovic to play at Paris Games: Serbia Olympic Committee

BELGRADE—Former tennis world number one, Novak Djokovic will play at the Summer Olympics Games in Paris, the Olympic Committee of Serbia said on Tuesday.

“Novak Djokovic and Dusan Lajovic have fulfilled the conditions according to ATP ranking and confirmed their participation at the Summer Olympic Games in Paris 2024”, the Serbian committee said on their web-site.

Djokovic has not yet publicly confirmed the announcement.

At the start of June, the 24-time Grand Slam winner withdrew ahead of his Roland Garros quarter-final against Casper Ruud after a scan revealed a torn medial meniscus in his right knee.

Two weeks ago, Djokovic confirmed he had undergone an operation on his knee and that it “went well”, but gave no timeframe for his return.

Djokovic has long said he will priori-

year,

Gabi, Flores showcase grit in JPGT Iloilo romps

ILOILO—In challenging conditions, Alexie Isabella Gabi and Inno Miguel Flores overcame early struggles and late-round pressure, emerging victorious in the 13-15 category of the ICTSI JPGT Iloilo Visayas Series

here yesterday (Wednesday). Both players showcased remarkable resilience and skill at the demanding par-70 Iloilo Golf Club course, defying numerous challenges posed by the course and their respective rivals to

ning

secure impressive victories. Gabi carded a 91 while Flores shot a 76 and matched eight-stroke romps.

Despite a shaky front nine, Gabi maintained her composure and capitalized on Tiffany Bernardino’s mistakes to clinch the title in the girls’ division with a total score of 253 over 54 holes. The 12-year-old Gen. Santos City native’s ability to recover from a double-bogey-riddled frontside 51 and finish strong with a back nine 40 demonstrated her tenacity and mental toughness.

Bernardino, struggling in wet conditions, ended with an 83 for a 261, while Rane Chiu placed third with an 85 for a 269.

“My first nine holes were tough, but I managed to catch up on the back nine,” said Gabi, a student at Quantum Academy, who relied on her excellent pitching and putting on the latter half of the course.

“I just told myself to focus on my game instead of getting annoyed and distracted,” added Gabi, who will also compete in the two upcoming Bacolod tournaments over the next two weeks.

Flores, on the other hand, displayed a steady performance throughout the tournament. Starting the final round four strokes ahead, he faced strong competition from Luciano Copok, Ty Ritchie Go and Dannuo Zhu. However, his closing 35 on the last nine

he

reiterated his goal.

“The Paris Olympics are very important. The Olympics have always been a priority for me,” Djokovic said in April ahead of the clay swing in Monte Carlo.

He has played four Olympic tournaments and won a bronze medal in Beijing in 2008. He has since twice come close to another medal He lost the bronze-medal match to Juan Martin del Potro in London in 2012. He lost again to the Argentine four years later in the first round in Rio. At the last Games in Tokyo, Djokovic lost the bronze-medal match to Pablo Carreno Busta from Spain.

At the same tournament he pulled out of the mixed doubles bronze medal match with a shoulder injury.

After his early exit at the Rolland Garros, Djokovic has slipped to third in the ATP rankings. AFP

holes helped him secure a commanding victory with a total of 236 after a six-over round.

Flores’ strategic play and focus on minimizing errors highlighted his competitive edge and determination.

“I focused on playing consistently,” said Flores, who showcased his prowess with a solid one-over score on the back nine, where consistent pars dominated his performance. Despite a lone bogey in the final stretch, the 13-year-old from Negros Occidental maintained a steady focus on his game.

Buoyed by this convincing victory, he looks forward to the upcoming series, starting with Binitin in Bacolod next week and culminating at his home course, the Marapara layout in Negros Occidental the following week. Zhu carded an 80 to snare runnerup honors at 244, while Copok and Go finished with 245 and 249 after 81 and 82, respectively.

Gabi and Flores’ performances in the first of three tournaments in the Visayas series not only underscored their individual talents but also set a high standard for future competitions. Their ability to adapt to challenging conditions and maintain composure under pressure is a testament to their potential as rising stars in the ICTSIsponsored circuit, hinting at even greater achievements in the future.

Presidential son William Vincent ‘Vinny’ Araneta Marcos (fifth from left) leads the ceremonial launch,

alongside (from left) Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara, Asian Volleyball Confederation president Rita Sibowo, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Senator Allan Peter Cayetano, Volleyball World CEO Finn Taylor, Senator Pia Cayetano, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino, Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard ‘Dickie’ Bachmann and Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano.

Chatri Sityodtong

Novak Djokovic

tise the Olympic Games this summer as he chases an elusive singles gold. In October last

he said win-

Olympic gold next year is one of his main ambitions, while before the clay tournaments this year

Category champions Inno Flores and Alexie Gabi hold their medals during awards rights of the 13-14 division of the Junior PGT Iloilo Visayas Series. Manny Marcelo

1st batch of Pinoy Olympians leaves for France on Saturday

By Peter Atencio

PREPARATIONS for the 2024 Paris Olympics will step up by next week as members of the Philippine delegation start leaving for France on Saturday (June 22).

Philippine representative Nikko Huelgas will, however, be the first to go, as a one-man advanced party, who will get the welcoming ceremony and red carpet ready at the Metz’ training camp.

A 70-member Philippine contingent made up 10 Filipino athletes, officials, coaches and support personnel will follow on Saturday.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino discussed the departure of

Team Philippines on Wednesday as the POC and Aice Brands Ice Cream Philippines, Inc. got into a Memorandum of Agreement for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“We are leaving on Saturday, bound for the first ever training camp of the Philippines in the Olympics,” said Tolentino during a signing ceremony with Aice brand manager Shereen Yu-de

Leon at the Discovery Primea Makati.

De Leon said the agreement will go on for a six-month period, with Aice organizing cheering activities for the athletes involved, and through #RuntoParisCheerforPhilippineOlympians.

Four boxers composed Carlo Paalam, Eumir Marcial, Aira Villegas and Hergie Bacyadan will be in the first batch of athletes leaving, with rower Joanie Delgaco, weighlifters John Ceniza, Elreen Ando and Vanessa Sarno.

Secretary general Wharton Chan said they are almost ready to accept athletes at the Metz’ camp.

“We are 99 percent ready. The Metz group and our local group are in touch. Preparations are doing good,” said Chan.

Chan added that an army of physical therapists, medical teams and psychologists will be at the Metz to help the athletes get ready.

“Kumpleto tayo dito,” said Chan.

Marcos sends o Team PH to Olympic Games

NO less than President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will send off members of the Paris Olympicsbound Team Philippines on Friday (June 21) night at the Marble Hall of the Ayuntamiento de Manila in Intramuros.

Sports have been close to President Marcos’s heart as he conveys his passion and enthusiasm on the Filipino athletes’ participation in the most important global sporting event that will happen during his administration.

Expected to join President Marcos in the ceremony managed by official Philippine Olympics broadcaster Cignal TV are Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and members of the POC board, qualified Filipino athletes to the Paris Games and members of the Philippine Sports Commission Board, led by chairman Richard “Dickie” Bachmann and national sports association officials. Philippine Olympian Association head Gillian Akiko Thomson-Guevara will also grace the ceremony, which is staged on the eve of the departure

of several members of Team Philippines to their preOlympics training facility in Metz, France, where they will conduct their final preparations for the July 26 to August 11 Games Paris is hosting for the second time in a century.

A Holy Mass will usher in the ceremony, which will be highlighted by the turnover of the country’s colors from the PSC to President Marcos and to Tolentino, also to be witnessed by Cignal TV and MediaQuest president and CEO Jane Basas and Cignal TV First Vice President and Head Channel Management and Programming Sienna Olaso.

Tolentino will also present to President Marcos the official training and competition apparel from Peak and adidas, while Team Philippines sponsors Cignal TV, Smart, adidas, Peak, celebrated designer Francis Libiran, Samsung, Aice, Delsey, Les Arenes Metz and Olympic Solidarity will be acknowledged.

Cignal TV will also present Team Philippines Paris Olympics song “Isang Daang Taong Laban Para Sa Bayan,” which is themed around the country’s 100 years of participation in the Olympics

QC District 1 Warriors open

THE District Warriors Philippines of Quezon City’s first district started their campaign on a high note after routing the Shoot it Dragons of Thailand, 11065, on opening day of 2024 Cahaya Lestari Surabaya (CLS) League Under-23 Senior Division last Tuesday in Surabaya, Indonesia. Backed by Quezon City first district Rep. Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde, the Warriors were led by Ryan Arceo, who scored 20 points, while Danren Nepomuceno and Christian Jake Agoncillo tallied 19 points each. Christian Ang also added 14 points for the Warriors, who now sport a 1-0 win-loss record.

Coached by Dale Lacorte and Vis Valencia, the Pinoy hoopers will be fighting for pride and glory when they compete this week against five top club teams from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and

Grozer leads Germany’s upset of no. 7 France

By Peter Atencio

GETTING in shape for his coming stint in the Paris Olympics, opposite hitter Gyorgy Grozer scored the winning spike that carried Germany to a 25-23, 25-27, 25-20, 25-23 upset win over sev-

Australia in a single-round robin format starting.

Completing the Philippine side are Joeben Loria, Yojan Ang, Patrick Buena, Andrei Diaz, Jeremiah Guzman, Warren Calara, and JR Lastra, plus coordinator Carl Lorenz Eserjose.

“This team is composed of Quezon City first district’s top talented players, who were selected in the series of tryouts and the ongoing D1 Basketball League,” Rep. Atayde,

“I believe they play with a lot of pride, and I have faith that they can bring home the championship,” Atayde added.

A well-known sports aficionado, Atayde is a member of the Youth and Sports Development Committee in the House of Representatives.

battle with the French spikers. France, the gold medallist of the Tokyo Olympics, struggled as the no. 9 Germany kept it close in the fourth set.

The match was tied at 23-all when French spiker Benjamin Toniutti deflected the ball away from the net, handing the Germans the point. The loss was France’s third in nine outings for a 6-3 win-loss slate, dropping to a share of third with Japan and Brazil.

The French, however, still stayed in contention for one of eight slots in the VNL Finals, set in the city of Łódź in Poland from June 27 to 30.

Coach Michal Winiarski, the national German squad’s coach since 2022, said he welcomes the return of the likes of Grozer to the team, along with Moritz Reichert and Lukas Maase. Grozer, who has been around since the London Olympics, was at his best when he scored six attack points that helped the Germans gain a 2-1 edge after three sets.

“Some main players are coming back. We have been playing without them (in the past), and I can see that our game is going up,” said Winiarski.

Peers, friends, fans remember Martires fondly

By Randy Caluag

ROSALIO “Yoyong” Martires, renowned as the fastest player of his era, passed away on Tuesday (June 18, 2024) at the age of 77.

Family, friends, fans, and former colleagues honored his memory and celebrated his multifaceted life.”He was surrounded by his family and loved ones during this difficult time. He lived a very adventurous and colorful life. A loving husband, a doting father, a caring grandpa, a self-made man, an Olympian, a prolific basketball player, a comedian, a devoted public servant, and a child of Christ,” his daughter Moby Leah Martires posted on social media. “Difficult steps to follow, indeed. You served God, our country, and your fellow men. Rest in peace, Papa. We love you.” Martires’ basketball career was illustrious.

Over 362 games with four teams in the PBA, he averaged 6.41 points, 3.37 rebounds, 3.99 assists, and 2.08

Turn to A7

Yoyong Martires (right) with Ramon Fernandez

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. which, interestingly, coincides with Paris hosting anew the quadrennial global sports conclave.

Aice brand manager Shereen Yu de Leon (center) is shown with POC president Abraham Tolentino and secretary general Wharton Chan after a partnership signing between the POC and Aice at the Discovery Primea Makati.

The District Warriors of QC are shown here before boarding their ight to Indonesia last Sunday. The players are (from left) Darren Nepomuceno, Joeben Loria, Yojan Ang, Patrick Buena, Coach Dale Lacorte, Coach Vis Valencia, Andrei Diaz, Coordinator Carl Lorenz Eserjose, Jeremiah Guzman, Warren Calara, Christian Jake Agoncillo, JR Lastra and Ryan Arceo.

Tourism jobs in 2023

Tourism contribution to GDP

6.2 million P2.09 trillion P697 billion

Foreign tourist expenditures

to supply PH power needs beyond 2030

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy (DOE)

said Thursday around 6,300 megawatts (MW) of “young” coal capacity will continue to reliably supply the country’s baseload power requirements until 2030 and beyond.

Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said during the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Power Summit 2024: Moving the Economy Forward with Energy and Power Security and Competitiveness that 6,300 MW of dependable coal capacity, or the output of coal plants aged 10 years or younger, could be relied on to operate for at least another 30 years.

Lotilla said more than 3,400 MW of dependable coal capacities are between 10 and 30 years old, allowing for at least another 10 years of operation.

“We are prepared for the various scenarios of the energy transition and the relatively young age of these coal plants help ensure that we will have enough baseload capacity through to 2030,” Lotilla said.

“Maximizing the use of existing energy infrastructure avoids placing an added cost burden on both the economy and consumers,” he said.

Lotilla said while there is an existing moratorium on building coal-fired power plants, there are also exemptions for committed, indicative and expansion plans.

Tourism jobs reached record 6.2m in 2023

By Othel V. Campos

JOBS in the Philippine tourism industry hit over 6.2 million in 2023, nearly surpassing the ambitious target of 6.3 million jobs set for the sector by 2028 under the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028.

The impressive figures are based on the latest Philippine Tourism Satellite Account (PTSA) released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on June 18, 2024. Employment within tourism-related industries grew 6.4 percent in 2023, reaching 6.21 million compared to 5.84 million in 2022. Tourism jobs now account for a substan-

tial 12.9 percent of the country’s total employment.

The industry also achieved its highest contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP). Tourism direct gross value added (TDGVA) reached a record P2.09 trillion in 2023, up by 47.9 percent from P1.41 trillion TDGVA in 2022.

The PTSA report further highlights a significant rise in domestic tourism

expenditure, growing by 72.3 percent to P2.67 trillion in 2023 from P1.55 trillion in 2022.

Inbound tourism expenditure, referring to spending by non-resident visitors, posted a record P697.46 billion in 2023, reflecting an impressive 87.7-percent growth over P371.58 billion in 2022.

The figure also surpassed the P600.01 billion recorded in 2019.

Secretary Christina Frasco noted the importance of the recently adopted National Tourism Development Plan in strengthening the industry’s foundation through infrastructure and connectivity enhancements and expanding government involvement in product, market and destination development.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippine economic team lead by Finance Secretary Ralph Recto asked Japanese businessmen to expand their operations in the Philippines.

The delegation to Japan engaged with top executives of Japanese companies on June 19, 2024 to invite them to expand their presence in the Philippines.

Among the Japanese companies are Sojitz Corp., Mitsubishi Corp., Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd. and Sumitomo Corp.

The Philippines aims to leverage the technological expertise of these top-notch companies to spur industry development and economic growth.

Sojitz is involved in a wide range of global businesses including manufacturing, selling, importing and exporting various products. In the Philippines, they operate diverse businesses, from commodities trading to several investment projects in agriculture, food, telecommunication, infrastructure, property development, automotive and mining.

Mitsubishi is a global integrated

By Jenniffer B. Austria

FILINVEST Hospitality Corp. (FHC) said it is spending P2.7 billion to build a 256-room hotel in Baguio City. Filinvest Development Corp. (FDC) said in a stock exchange filing Wednesday FHC, its hospitality unit, recently topped-off Grafik Hotel Collection within Camp John Hay. The Grafik Hotel Collection Baguio will offer 256 upscale accommodations, five food and beverage outlets, a grand ballroom, meeting spaces and a spa. The hotel is slated to open in the first quarter of 2025.

business enterprise involved in project development, production and manufacturing. In the Philippines, Mitsubishi handles the export and import of various products, consumer market activities, as well as infrastructure and renewable energy development.

Murata specializes in research and development, manufacturing and sales of ceramic-based electronics.

The Philippine Manufacturing Co. of Murata Inc. (PMM) in Batangas is Murata’s largest production site in Asia, primarily producing multilayer ceramic capacitors.

“The Grafik Hotel Collection is poised to make a significant impact on the local economy. By creating numerous employment opportunities, we aim to engage and uplift the community,” said FHC first senior vice president Francis Gotianun.

“Our project will not only boost tourism but also foster a sense of pride and involvement among the residents of Baguio. We are committed to contributing to the city’s growth and prosperity,” he said.

The project is in partnership with state-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and John Hay Management Corp. (JHMC).

Sojitz plans to venture into telecom tower business in PH

JAPAN’S leading trading company

Sojitz Corp. expressed keen interest in investing in cell tower construction and co-location in the Philippines, an official of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Wednesday.

DTI commercial counselor Dita Angara-Mathay, on the first-day of the Philippine economic briefing in Japan, highlighted Sojitz’s potential contribution to infrastructure development and food security in the Philippines.

Sojitz’s interest in cell tower colocation aligns with the country’s need for improved telecommunications infrastructure.

“The DTI extends a warm invitation to Japanese businesses to explore the vast opportunities within the Philippine market. With a strong economic foundation, a commitment to a transparent and investorfriendly environment, and a shared vision for a sustainable future, the Philippines stands ready to solidify its position as a strategic partner for Japan,” said Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual in a meeting with Sojitz executives.

The DTI and the Philippine economic team are in Japan for a threeday investment mission. The meeting built upon Sojitz’s presence in the Philippines in terms of investments in fertilizers, mining, food production and automotive dealerships.

Pascual highlighted the country’s recent policy reforms such as amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act and the Foreign Investments Act which aim to create a more transparent and investorfriendly environment.

The DTI also noted the establishment of “green lanes” for strategic investments which facilitated the approval of 68 projects as of May 2024, attracting $35 billion across various sectors. Othel V. Campos

INVESTMENT MISSION. Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual meets with Sojitz Corp. aerospace, transportation and infrastructure managing executive officer Masakazu Hashimoto. The Philippine economic team and representatives from various Philippine government agencies visited Japan to woo more companies to invest in the Philippines.

Shang Properties posts record growth, revenues in 2023

PROPERTY development company

Shang Properties Inc. said it achieved record revenue and growth in 2023 during its annual stockholder’s meeting at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City.

Total group revenues amounted to P9.8 billion, up 25 percent from 2022 figures. Profit after tax amounted to P5.5 billion, a 53-percent increase from 2022’s P3.6 billion, driven by greater net profit margins after tax of 56 percent, up 10 percent from the previous year.

Shang Properties said it recovered from the pandemic with higher revenues from property development, improved occupancy within the leasing business and the return of tourism and unrestricted movement post-pandemic which boosted the hotel and retail businesses.

It launched two new projects in 2023

– namely Laya by Shang Properties and Haraya Residences under the joint venture company Shang Robinsons Properties Inc. which added more than 1800 residential units to the market.

The near completion of ongoing projects, namely Shang Residences at Wack Wack and Aurelia Residences, aided residential net income.

Shang Properties also bagged several awards during the past year.

Shang Residences at Wack Wack won the Best High-End Condo Development in Metro Manila at the 2023 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards and the Best Luxury Development in Metro Manila at the 2023 Carousell Property Awards.

Meanwhile, Aurelia Residences won local and international awards in 2023, including the Best High-Rise Condominium in Asia at the 18th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards. It also won the Best Ultra Luxury Condo Development in Metro Manila.

PCSO awards Pacific Online P4-b deal for e-lotto platform

ONLINE lottery equipment provider

Pacific Online Systems Corp. (POSC) bagged a P4.088 billion contract from state-run Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) for an e-lotto platform.

Pacific Online said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Wednesday it received a notice from PCSO that its board of directors approved the recommendation of the special bids and awards committee declaring the corporation as the” single calculated and responsive bid” for five-year procurement project.

“With the issuance of the notice of award, the corporation will now be complying with the post-Notice of Award requirements of the PCSO;

thereafter, the contract between the corporation and PCSO covering the terms and conditions of the project will be executed,” Pacific Online said.

Pacific Online signed a memorandum of agreement with PCSO for the one-year trial implementation of a web-based application betting platform in August last year. The trial period started Dec. 31, 2023. PCSO said it aims to develop and promote more marketable, adaptable, resilient and trendy betting platforms through e-lotto digital betting platform, considering the evolution of the gaming market and the advancements in technology.

Jenniffer B. Austria

vehicle jointly owned by mostly Philippines-based investors and former consumer brand executives.

IT’S AN anomaly spawned by the pandemic in 2020, when people were cooped up in their homes and unable to leave their house. Now, the services of Grab Philippines have become the new normal―providing jobs and livelihood and creating a multiplier effect on the Philippine economy.

Two separate studies affirm the positive impact of Grab, a mobile technology company that offers ride-hailing, food delivery and digital payment services.

Leading superapp Grab, according the Asian Development Bank, is a key driving force in the Philippine economy. Its innovative service model provided flexible and substantial livelihood opportunities, offsetting a rise in unemployment and helping thousands of Filipinos weather economic adversity.

The University of Asia and the Pacific’s (UA&P) Center for Research and Communications, meanwhile, noted in its own study that Grab’s economic influence was evident in its unique ability to amplify economic returns.

For every peso spent on the Grab platform, says the think tank, an additional P3.42 is injected into the national economy. The multiplier effect surpasses industry benchmarks―positioning Grab as a leader in economic contribution within the transportation sector. The fundamental idea is that with a hypothetical P100-GrabCar ride, an additional P342 is generated for the economy.

“Our study shows that Grab―with its strong

Megawide gets SEC approval for P5-b bonds

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said Wednesday it approved the P5-billion bond offering of construction and engineering firm Megawide Construction Corp.

The SEC rendered effective the registration statement of Megawide involving the issuance of up to P4 billion of fixed-rate bonds, with an oversubscription option for another P1 billion, subject to the company’s compliance with requirements.

The bonds will consist of series C bonds due 2027, series D bonds due 2029 and series E bonds due 2031.

Megawide said it would use the proceeds from the fund-raising activity to refinance debt and fund business development opportunities and other general purposes.

The offering will run from June 24 to July 3. The bonds will be listed on the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. on July 11 based on the latest timetable submitted to the SEC.

Megawide tapped PNB Capital and Investment Corp., RCBC Capital Corp. and SB Capital Investment Corp. as joint issue managers, joint lead underwriters and bookrunners for the transaction.

The bonds were rated PRS Aa with a stable outlook by Philippine Rating Services Corp.

PHILIPPINE stocks closed marginally lower Wednesday on lackluster trading, while the peso tumbled to a near 19-month low of 58.76 against the US dollar.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index closed at 6,366.03, down 2.77 points, or 0.04 percent, while the allshares index ended at 3,438.46, lower by 2.08 points, or 0.06 percent.

Analysts said investors were not buying stocks even at the current cheap market prices.

“At yesterday’s close, the PSEI’s forward P/E [price-to-earnings] was 10.27x, a discount of 19.2 percent versus MSCI’s Asean Index’s 12.72x,” Abacus Securities research head Nicky Franco said. Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Mikhail Plopenio said investors were worried over the unclear direction of the US Federal Reserve and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on their rate cut timing.

Obligations rated PRS Aa are of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.

Philratings considered Megawide’s solid experience in the construction industry, and its along with vertically integrated operations, that are seen to complement the government’s infrastructure projects.

It also considered the company’s move to diversify into less cyclical sources of revenues, including government infrastructure projects.

Megawide, together with its Japanese partners Tokyu Construction and Tobishima Corp., earlier bagged the Contract Package (CP-104) of the Metro Manila Subway Project with estimated cost of P17.75 billion.

The project involves the construction of underground stations in Ortigas North and South, as well as the tunnels connecting these two locations.

The project is seen to facilitate Megawide’s diversification into railway systems.

“Investors continued to stay on the sidelines amid lack of positive catalysts resulting in a tepid net market value,” Plopenio said.

Sectoral indices ended mixed, with services and holding firms advancing by 0.94 percent and 0.31 percent, respectively. Mining and oil also rose 0.24 percent, while financial climbed 0.11 percent.

Industrial dropped 0.89 percent, while property declined 0.77 percent. Average trading reached P3.88 billion.

Meanwhile, Asian equities were mixed on Wednesday following yet another record day in New York fueled by data that boosted US interest rate cut hopes, with expectations tempered by cautious comments from Federal Reserve officials.

In Europe, London fell at the open even after data showed UK inflation had eased to the Bank of England’s two percent target. Jenniffer B. Austria with AFP

Grab becomes driving economic force 4 years after the pandemic

foothold in the Philippines, its technology, portfolio of services, and robust ecosystem of partners and merchants, has a remarkable capacity to propel our economy forward.

Having the unique position as a superapp has allowed Grab to fully realize a multiplier effect that reverberates throughout the economy and the Filipino household” said Dr. Cid L. Terosa, UA&P Associate Professor and senior economist.

Grab’s multiplier effect cannot also be ignored. UA&P resident Prof. Greg Mabbagu shares Grab’s success ripples through the economy, livelihood creation and households.

Grab, with a total output multiplier of 3.42, he says, ranks third among seven transport sectors next to railway and air transport. Compared with available multiplier studies published in local economics journals, the multiplier significantly outpaces heavy industries like mining, highlighting Grab’s unique and substantial economic contributions.

The study found that the consumer patronage of Grab services accounts for 0.07 percent to 0.3 percent of the national gross domestic product. From 2019 to 2021, Grab’s estimated total economic contribution ranges from P37 billion to P165.6 billion, reinforcing its position as a key contributor to the national economy.

The household income multiplier of 0.44 also suggests that every additional peso spent on Grab’s services stimulates an increase of P0.44 in the national household income. The study noted that it implied that an extra peso spent on Grab services extends beyond just covering the actual ride or meal―it contributes an additional

P0.44 to household incomes for laborers in the ride-hailing and on-demand delivery industry nationwide.

With the multiplier value for household income, Grab Philippines contributed 0.10 percent to 0.17 percent to the total family income from 2019 to 2021, or equivalent to between P23.8 billion and P40.3 billion.

“This study showcases how expansive the positive impact of online marketplaces like Grab have on national and local economies, promoting a more balanced regional development. We are very optimistic that with the fast-growing adoption of digital-first ways of life, platforms like Grab will continue to be key economic drivers as they transform the lives of many Filipinos for the better,” says Dr. Thomas Aquino, senior fellow at the UA&P-CRC.

Grab’s operations have played a vital role in reducing the average number of unemployed persons by 1.1 percent to 1.6 percent from 2019 to 2021. It has reaffirmed its dedication to stimulating economic growth through its operations, which currently spans over 100 cities nationwide. The leading superapp is set to further drive digital transformation through its everyday services to additional cities and municipalities beyond Metro Manila in 2024.

“We understand that much work needs to be done in further driving the nation forward, and we are eager and prepared to help usher in a new phase of inclusive growth and prosperity―with the support of our partners in the government and public sector, and our regulators,” says Grab Philippines country head Grace Vera Cruz. The ADB weighed in that Grab is not only a tech success story―it is also a resilient economic pillar supporting the livelihoods of countless Filipinos. Through its innovative platform economy model, the ADB said Grab continues to provide essential services while promoting the welfare and social mobility of its partners. It’s a testament to the potential of technology to drive economic recovery and development.

“The findings of the Asian Development Bank’s survey reaffirms that we are indeed living out our mission of creating flexible earning opportunities for thousands of Filipinos. We are committed to continuously enhance the livelihoods of our partners, deliver value to our consumers, while building a sustainable ecosystem for all our stakeholders,” says Vera Cruz.

“This report also reminds us that there is always room to kaizen. We will continue to seek innovative solutions to further enhance our drivers’ welfare and safety while delivering exceptional services to our customers. Our goal is not just to be a super app--we aim to be a super partner to every Filipino,” she added.

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

Shang Properties Inc. executives led by [from left] Mabel Tacorda, Federico Noel Jr., Wolfgang Krueger, Alexandra Ramos-Padilla and Rajeev Garg share company developments during the annual stockholders’ meeting on June 18, 2024 at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City. Shang Properties says it recovered from the pandemic with higher revenues from property development, improved occupancy within the leasing business and the return of tourism and unrestricted movement post-pandemic.

BUSINESS

OceanaGold vows to meet target output this year

OCEANAGOLD Philippines (OGP) is determined to achieve its 2024 production target of 122,000 ounces of gold, despite lower output in the first quarter.

OGP general manager for operations David Bickerton said the mining firm is setting its sights on higher production levels for the rest of 2024 at its Didipio gold and copper mine in Nueva Vizcaya.

“We’re still moving material that we need to move. It’s just that it’s related to grade,” he said.

OceanaGold is facing a temporary challenge over lower ore grades in the early months of 2024, but the company said it remained confident in meeting its annual production target. They are actively looking at expanding underground mining op-

erations as a potential solution to increase the throughput rate.

Bickerman said while the firstquarter production was short at 25,500 ounces, he remains confident output would pick up in the second quarter onwards. He expects the lower yield in the early months to be balanced out as the year progresses. The gold miner exports 74 percent of semi-processed gold to the ABC Refinery in New South Wales, Australia, while the balance stays within the Philippines for sale to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

OceanaGold recently secured a new partner for a reseller contract for copper concentrate, finding refineries and handling the sales process.

Malaysian semiconductor firm expands in Clark

By Othel V. Campos

INARI Amertron Inc., a leading Malaysian semiconductor company, is increasing its Philippine presence with a new three-story, 2,000-square-meter facility in Clark Freeport, Pampanga.

Inari Amertron chief executive Kean Cheong Lau expressed pride in the company’s growth and its dedication to innovation and employee development.

“We started as a small company in 2006, and today I can proudly say that we are the largest technology manufacturing services provider, and this means a lot for

Cebu demand to outpace supply in next 3 to 4 years—AboitizPower

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ABOITIZ Power Corp. on Wednesday warned that in the absence of new power plants built in Cebu, demand would outpace supply which could lead to outages in the next three to four years.

“Should there be no new power plants built in the next three to four years, Cebu’s power demand will outpace the available supply,” Aboitiz Power Corp. Thermal Business Group chief operating officer Ronaldo Ramos said.

Ramos addressed the intricate challenges of Cebu’s energy landscape, particularly on how to increase power supply to meet growing demand in Visayas in an equitable and sustainable manner during the “Good Design, Good Business Summit” led by

the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Ramos said Cebu accounts for a substantial portion of electricity demand in the Visayas.

He said adequate power supply is a critical precondition for economic growth in the province, the Visayas and the rest of the country.

“Cebu province alone bears half of the region’s total demand, with Metro Cebu accounting for over half of the province-wide requirement. This is projected to increase by approximately 7 percent annually,” the AboitizPower executive said.

The surge in demand underscores the urgent need for energy security, especially if Central Visayas is to sustain the kind of economic expansion it had last year at 7.3 percent — the fastest in the country.

our people, our employees for 36 years who are still with us,” Lau said.

He said the expansion is a strategic move as the company is gaining new customers.

“We look forward to creating our pride and legacy, and to building a strong ecosystem here [in Clark],” Lau said.

The new facility will further enhance its technological service offerings, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) chip components

and high-frequency radio products. Meanwhile, Clark Development Corp. (CDC) president and chief executive Agnes Devanadera emphasized the agency’s commitment to fostering a strong supply chain within the zone.

“The CDC is committed to developing business interdependence among our 1,153 locators, ensuring that the needs of one can be met by others within the [Clark Freeport] zone,” she said.

DAR asked to recall order stripping farmers of agrarian lands

MORE than 1,000 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) from Nasugbu, Batangas asked the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) to revoke its order to give up the lands previously awarded to them under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) and returning the assets to the former owner, Hacienda Roxas.

“Since time immemorial, these farmers have been cultivating their land. It goes against the basic precepts of justice, fairness, and equity to deprive them, through no fault of their own, of the land they till,” the Sentro Para sa Tunay na Repormang Agraryo (Sentra) said in its petition.

The petition, filed by Sentra lawyer Robert Pahilga on behalf of the farmers, said the DAR’s consolidated order and the compromise agreement violated Republic Act 6657 or Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law, as amended by Republic Act 9700 Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reform (CARPER).

“These laws mandate the acquisition and distribution of agricultural lands to the landless tillers. CARL is a social justice legislation and as such, whether agricultural land is covered in its provision, is not subject to compromise,” the petition read.

The farmers alleged that the Katipunan

ng mga Magbubukid sa Hacienda Roxas Inc. (KAMAHARI) and the Damayan ng Manggagawang Bukid sa Asyenda RoxasNational Federation of Sugar Workers (DAMBA-NFSW), which allegedly negotiated the compromise agreement, had no authority to decide for and on their behalf.

“The compromise agreement, even when it was approved by the DAR, is null and void. It is not valid and binding to the ARBs [agrarian reform beneficiaries],” the petition stated.

The DAR issued a consolidated order on Dec. 29, 2023, splitting 50-50 the 2,938 hectares of land registered under Roxas and Company Inc (RCI).

BAGOSPHERE INVESTOR. BagoSphere, a Philippine startup specializing in human capability training and upskilling solutions, secures equity investment from Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), a non-government organization dedicated to providing micro-financing and developmental services for marginalized communities. The funding will drive BagoSphere’s innovative programs, focusing on leadership development and expansion and exploring strategic growth in Southeast Asia over the next two years, targeting front-liners in fastgrowing industries as it aims to reach 100,000 members.

Othel V. Campos

SCUBA COMMISSION. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco administers the oath of office of the new set of board of trustees of the Philippine Commission on Sports SCUBA Diving - PCSSD on June 18, 2024 at the Department of Tourism (DOT) in Makati City.

LNG FORUM. ExxonMobil Corp. vice president for LNG market development and origination Shahrukh Mirza, Global Business Power Corp. chief operating officer Dominador Camu Jr., Asia Natural Gas & Energy Association (ANGEA) director of policy and advocacy Alex Yelland. Aboitiz Power Corp. chief corporate services officer Carlos Aboitiz, Prime Energy Resources Development, B.V. managing director and general manager Donnabel Kuizon Cruz and CitizenWatch Philippines convenor Orlando Oxales discuss the role of liquefied natural gas in the power industry during the forum on ‘Advancing Energy Security: Fueling Sustainable Progress with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), organized by the Stratbase Institute, in partnership with CitizenWatch Philippines, at the Asian Institute of Management in Makati City on June 18, 2024.

Cebu Pacific to launch San Vicente flights in October

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CEBU Pacific strengthened its domestic network by adding direct flights to San Vicente, Palawan from Cebu.

The airline unit of the Gokongwei Group said that starting Oct. 24, 2024, it would operate flights between Cebu and San Vicente four times weekly or every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

“Cebu Pacific is thrilled to expand our domestic network by introducing flights to San Vicente,” Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao said in a statement.

“This new route will not only offer travelers the opportunity to experience the tranquility of San Vicente’s pristine beaches and fishing villages, but will also allow us to boost inter-island connectivity and strengthen our commitment of providing accessible and affordable flights for every Juan,” he said.

Starting June 19 until June 26, 2024, passengers can book direct flights between Cebu and San Vicente for as low as P1 one-way base fare for travel between Oct. 24, 2024, and March 29, 2025.

Connecting flights to San Vicen -

Meralco lauds ERC for resolving AWAT application

By Alena Mae S. Flores

SAYING that regulatory delays cause “irreparable” damage to distribution utilities and customers, power retailer Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) on Wednesday commended the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for resolving the issue of its actual weighted average tariff (AWAT) application.

MAYA, the leading digital bank in the Philippines, said Wednesday its customers are developing stronger savings habits, with average savings account balances more than doubling within just 12 months.

This growth underscores the positive impact of Maya’s high engagement banking program on Filipinos’ financial health, the company said in a statement.

It said that by the 23rd month of saving, balances in these accounts tripled. Maya credits the financial improvement to its savings innovations, which encourage customers to save more.

These offers include incentivizing regular digital transactions with higher interest rates of up to 14 percent per annum and user-friendly products that enable small initial deposits and incremental savings growth.

“Financial health can be significantly improved through innovation.

We have eliminated minimum balance requirements and designed our products to be accessible, allowing users to start saving with any amount they can afford. Additionally, customers benefit from higher interest rates as they use the app for transactions like bill payments and everyday purchases,” said Maya Bank president Angelo Madrid.

“Digital banking is empowering more Filipinos with accessible tools to better manage their finances. It is incredibly rewarding to see how we are helping people, especially those with limited funds, develop strong and sustainable savings habits,” said Shailesh Baidwan, president of Maya Group and co-founder of Maya Bank.

te from Manila are available for as low as P998 one-way base fare, with booking open until June 30, 2024, for the same travel period. Bookings are exclusive of fees and surcharges.

It said passengers may use their existing travel funds to book flights and avail themselves of other addons. Cebu Pacific also offers multiple payment options, including payment centers, credit or debit cards, and ewallets.

The airline flies to 35 domestic and 25 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia and the Middle East.

“All distribution utilities [Dus] and consumers cannot afford any further delay resulting from the prolonged lag in the resolution of the rate cases pending at the ERC,” said Meralco senior vice president and head of regulatory management office Jose Ronald Valles.

“These delays cause significant harm to both DUs and consumers,” Valles said. “They deprive consumers of the benefits promised by performance-based regulation [PBR] in terms of more efficient service and reliable supply of power.”

Valles said Meralco received the ERC’s order on the AWAT case Friday. The order confirmed the regulator’s earlier final and executory decision in a separate case which reduced Meralco’s tariff during the lapsed period to 1.3522 pesos per kilowatthour from 1.3810 pesos per kWh.

THE Rural Bank of Sta. Rosa (Laguna) Inc. submitted a request to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for an authorized capital increase to P1.2 billion as it aims to expand its financial offerings, upgrade technology and strengthen its branch network.

The bank has existing authorized capital stock of P20 million.

“We are off to a strong start in building a robust financial institution by improving the Bank’s products and services and enhancing our customer experience across both offline and online channels,” Rural Bank of Sta. Rosa chairman and Salmon’s cofounder Raffy Montemayor said. Salmon, which acquired Rural Bank of Sta. Rosa in January 2024,

injected fresh capital into the bank to invest in technology and in people to prepare for its upcoming mobile app and debit card launch, which is slated for the second half of 2024, subject to the BSP approval.

The capital injection led to the bank’s equity climbing to P385 million in June, a 1,075-percent increase year-on-year.

“We are excited to see the Bank rapidly becoming the center of the group’s business in the Philippines,” bank director and Salmon’s co-founder Pavel Fedorov said.

“We hope that with our upcoming mobile app and debit card launch, Salmon will vividly show just how different our approach is to providing customer experience. Built around

daily needs on a slick and intuitive mobile platform, Salmon hopes to give a new sense of financial freedom and inspiration to millions of Filipinos,” he said.

The bank’s total deposits soared by 439 percent to P440 million in May 2024, up from P82 million in the same period last year.

The growth in deposits was driven by the competitive time deposit rates, including its 8.88-percent interest rate p.a. for time deposits exceeding P500,000 for a 12-month term.

It deployed these new deposits to acquire installment loans and cash loans from Sunprime Finance Inc., its sister company that successfully lends to underserved and underbanked Filipinos.

Darwin G. Amojelar

VISA, a global leader in payment solutions, said it is committed to promoting digital and financial inclusion by equipping women and youth in Southeast Asia with essential digital and financial skills to foster sustainable growth and pave the way for long-term success.

Southeast Asia’s young population, who constitute nearly a third of Southeast Asia, along with the region’s SMEs and MSMEs, which constitute 99 percent of businesses, are key to economic growth.

Visa said it aiding this progress by enhancing digital and financial literacy for women SME owners and young individuals.

Visa said it digitally enabled 10 million SMEs in Asia Pacific in 2023, and Visa Foundation committed over $47 million in the region, which has

helped support 2 million women-led SMEs and sustain 500,000 jobs. It recently pledged $100 million to APEC economies over five years.

“In the Philippines, women and young people form a crucial engine propelling local economic growth.

Visa utilizes our resources and vast network to give back to the communities we operate in, particularly in promoting digital and financial inclusion. We believe in the

“The ERC, in issuing this order, took the best interest of the consumers and the industry as a whole. As a result of the true-up method adopted by ERC to resolve the lapsed period of Meralco, consumers benefitted from the refund of more than P48 billion ordered by ERC,” he said. Valles said the ruling also paved the way for the closure of lapsed period of all DUs and the resumption of the implementation of PBR to set the future tariffs of the DUs without further delay.

Under the PBR methodology, privately-owned DUs are allowed to charge regulatory reset cost in their revenue requirement. The regulatory reset cost represents expenses incurred in engaging regulatory experts or consultants when setting and updating the DU’s electricity rates.

IN BRIEF

Fil-Chinese business chambers donate 6,000 school buildings

By Julie Ann Lope

OFFICIALS of business chambers and the Department of Education held a ceremonial turnover and blessing ceremony for two public school buildings at the Buenavista Central Elementary School (BCES) multi-purpose hall and school grounds in Buenavista, Agusan del Norte province on June 4, 2024.

Representatives from Buenavista LGU led by Mayor Joselito Roble; the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) from Manila represented by vice president Antonio Cosing; the Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Agusan Inc. (FCCCAI) headed by president John Derrick Ngo; and the Department of Education, represented by Dr. Hector Macalalag, assistant schools division superintendent attended the event.

The donation included two buildings, one with two classrooms and another with three, providing a total of five new classrooms.

Key donors, father and son Dr. Michael Lui and Bonifacio Lui of FCCCAI were acknowledged for

Jin Jiang summer camp promotes Chinese culture

THE Philippine Jin Jiang General Association Inc. held the “China’s Search for Roots Summer Camp” (Chen Zu Chang Camp) on May 31, 2024.

The camp aimed to connect participants with their heritage, fostering personal growth and deepening their understanding of their roots, while developing valuable life skills.

The first day began with adaptive training sessions designed to build team spirit. Campers introduced themselves, engaged in interactive group games and learned the importance of teamwork and communication.

The activities also included lessons on basic social etiquette, helping to create a cohesive and respectful camp environment.

Following the training, participants visited the Jin Jiang Experience Center where they explored the achievements and development path of Jin Jiang since China’s Reform and Opening-Up.

The center showcased various documents and exhibits that highlighted the transformation of Jin Jiang from a poor and backward area into a modern city, emphasizing themes of entrepreneurship, innovative spirit and teamwork.

The day’s final activity immersed campers in the traditional Chinese culture of martial arts, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Experienced Chinese teachers guided participants through the basic standing postures and breathing techniques. The exercise also provided physical and mental health benefits to promote overall well-being.

Michael Wong Ho

their generosity.

“These two school buildings will serve as stepping stones for children to achieve their dreams, whether they aspire to become doctors, engineers, teachers, or even the President.” Dr. Lui said.

Roble welcomed the contribution and highlighted its significant impact on the students’ learning environment. He also invited potential investors to consider Buenavista for future projects.

“Thank you for choosing us as your beneficiary. Your contribution will make a meaningful change in the lives of those people we prom-

ised to serve,” Roble said.

Cosing said the Filipino-Chinese community has donated over 6,000 school buildings nationwide, including 32 in Agusan del Norte, underscoring their belief in supporting the youth.

Ngo expressed his gratitude to the donors--Dr. Michael Lui and Bonifacio Lui as well as Engr. Anecito Bonpin, who donated one unit. He also thanked the members of the Filipino Chinese Chamber for their generous funding of the project, and acknowledged the efforts of LGU Buenavista, led by Mayor Roble, and the SB members for their finan-

cial contribution and smooth facilitation of the project’s stages.

“Though we have Chinese ancestry, we are Filipinos, and we are dedicated to giving back to our community and society. This contribution reflects our unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing and innovative environment for our students. This building symbolizes the growth and development of our students,” Ngo said.

Ngo said the FFCCCII embraces the theme “Dugong Tsino, Pusong Pinoy” as they celebrate 70 years of commerce, philanthropy and progress.”

CSK’s field oval in Cavite obtains world certification

CHIANG Kai Shek College’s track and field oval at its new Southmont campus in Silang, Cavite was awarded Class 2 certification by the World Athletics Certification System until 2028.

The recognition places the institution among only three facilities in the Philippines with such certification and distinguishes it as the only privately-owned one.

The Class 2 certification confirms that the CKS College track and field oval adheres to the stringent standards set by World Athletics, allowing it to host international competitions with any records set being globally recognized.

“This achievement underscores CKS College’s commitment to excellence in sports and athletics. This is a significant milestone for both the school and the Chinese-Filipino community, reflecting our dedication to developing athletic talent.” the college said.

The world-class facility is expected to be instrumental in nurturing future athletes and providing a platform for them to achieve their highest potential.

World Athletics is the international governing body for athletics, overseeing track and field, cross country running, road running, race walking, mountain running and ultra running. It standardizes rules and regulations, certifies athletic facilities, manages world records and organizes athletic events. Julie Ann Lope

Chinese-Filipino Business Club distributes 1,000 packs of rice

THE Chinese Filipino Business Club, Inc.

(CFBCI) distributed 1,000 packs of 5-kilogram rice to residents of Manila at Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz, Binondo on June 9, 2024 in celebration of the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Day.

The event was in collaboration with the Manila Chinatown Barangay Organization and Manila Chinatown Development Council.

The initiative is part of a broader commitment to community service and social responsibility and the club’s dedication to contributing positively to society.

Established in January 1998, CFBCI is one of the prominent non-profit organizations in the Filipino-Chinese community with a member-

ship of more than 300 individuals coming from the law, finance, manufacturing, real estate development, travel and tourism, agriculture, chemical, hardware, construction, banking and other sectors. It has been in the forefront of service to the Chinese community as well as the Filipino mainstream society promoting harmony between the two racial groups.

The club has been working hard to provide peaceful living conditions to the people, collaborating with various government agencies to realize the goal bringing prosperity to the national economy and paying it forward to the mainstream society. Julie Ann Lope

Universal Wisdom Foundation, Embassy of Sri Lanka

By Michael Wong Ho

THE Universal Wisdom Foundation Inc. (UWFI) and the Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Philippines commemorated Vesak on May 25, 2024 at Wisdom Park in Quezon City.

Sri Lanka Ambassador to the Philippines Chanaka Talpahewa honored the event with his presence.

The celebration, organized by UWFI founder Mariano Yupitun and president Ananda Harish together with program director Corrine Adiaton, was also attended by dignitaries, venerable monks, ambassadors and representatives from various Buddhist temples.

The day featured a series of significant activities including the exposition and enshrinement of sacred Shakyamuni Buddha relics, circumambulation, Buddha bathing, lighting of candles and chanting.

The revered relics were brought to Wisdom Park through the support of Sri Lanka Ambassador to the State of Palestine Nawalage Bennet Cooray, who is also a former ambassador to the Philippines. The relics were a donation from Ven. Gothatuwe Indrakiththi Thero of Senevi Arana Senasanaya, inherited

celebrate Vesak

Universal Wisdom Foundation Inc.

from his father, the late deputy commissioner of archaeology of Sri Lanka, Prof. S.M. Seneviratne, 40 years ago.

“This donation strengthens the relationship between Sri Lanka and the Philippines and supports Wisdom Park’s mission to disseminate the Buddha’s teachings in the Philippines.”

UWFI said. The formal enshrinement ceremony of the Buddha relics was conducted at the Theravada Altar on the third floor of Wisdom Park, led by Master Puxue of the Philippine Chinese Buddhist Association and representatives from Mahayana Buddhist temples in Manila.

The Great Compassion Mantra was chanted before the enshrinement, with assistance from two Theravada monks, Ven. Ratthapalo and Ven. Sukka Dhammo, alongside Dr. Mariano Yupitun, UWFI founder. Ambassador Talpahewa delivered an insightful discourse on the teachings of the Buddha, the significance of Vesak and the relics’ arrival in the Philippines.

The event also featured a cultural performance by Adamson University, showcasing traditional Philippine National Dances such as Sinakiki, Aray, Karatong, Lapay and Tinikling.

The Sri Lankan Embassy performed a rendition of Bakthi Gee, a series of devotional songs dedicated to the Buddha.

The celebration was made possible by the combined efforts of distinguished venerable monks from Seng Guan Temple, Hwa Chong Temple, Guanyin Temple, Hae In Temple, Fo Guang Shan Temple, UWFI resident monks, ambassadors, the Sri Lankan Embassy, Tzu Chi Foundation and the Philippine Amitabha Buddhist Association.

Restaurant offers stunning view of Binondo skyline

IN RECENT years, rooftop dining has surged in popularity, transforming urban skylines into culinary destinations.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a trendy brunch spot, or a place to unwind with friends, rooftop restaurants and bars offer a unique blend of exquisite cuisine, breathtaking views, and an ambiance that can’t be replicated on the ground. Amid the bustling streets and soaring skyscrapers in Binondo, there lies a culinary sanctuary that promises a dining experience like no other- Mento Restaurant.

Perched atop the Ramada by Wyndham Manila Central Hotel in Binondo, Mento should not be missed when visiting Chinatown. As you step into the restaurant, you are immediately greeted by its friendly staff and an elegant

Members of the Chinese Filipino Business Club Inc. (CFBCI) distribute 1,000 packs of 5-kilogram rice to residents of Manila.

The Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce of Agusan Inc. (FCCCAI) turns over a school building at the

Buenavista Central Elementary School (BCES) on June 4, 2024.

The

(UWFI) and the Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Philippines commemorate Vesak on May 25, 2024 in Quezon City.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

By Nickie Wang

SINCE BINI ’s explosive debut and rise as one of the country’s most prominent P-pop groups, they have achieved a historic milestone by edging out Taylor Swift to become the mostlistened-to artist in the Philippines, according to Spotify Charts.

BINI’s phenomenal rise brings international attention to OPM

It came as no surprise that despite being kept under wraps, the group’s recent appearance at the Trinoma activity area in Quezon City, where

The achievement instantly solidified BINI’s status as a leading force in the Original Pinoy Music (OPM) genre and as a growing global influence. The group’s meteoric rise to stardom happened with singles such as “Salamin, Salamin” and the upbeat summer anthem “Pantropiko,” gaining traction worldwide. These songs have become a popular choice for dance covers and other online content, even among nonFilipino social media users.

they were introduced as the new faces of the leading fast-food chain Jollibee, attracted a massive turnout of enthusiastic fans. Hosted by Robi Domingo, the event underscored BINI’s growing influence and the robust support from their fanbase, known as

‘Sexy Back’ singer Justin Timberlake arrested in NYC for drunk driving

POP star Justin Timberlake was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated in a chic town east of New York City, and spent the night in jail before being arraigned and released, local officials said Tuesday.

The 43-year-old Timberlake, known for such hits as “SexyBack” and “Cry Me a River,” was taken into custody in Sag Harbor, part of the affluent Hamptons community, in the early hours of Tuesday.

Timberlake is currently on his ‘The

“Justin Timberlake was arrested in Sag Harbor for driving while intoxicated,” the prosecutor’s office in Suffolk County said in a statement emailed to AFP

“He was arraigned in Sag Harbor Village Justice Court and released on his own recognizance,” the statement said, adding that Timberlake’s next court date would be a virtual appearance on July 26.

Sag Harbor police said in a statement that a police officer pulled Timberlake over shortly after midnight after seeing him driving his BMW through a stop sign and failing to stay on the right side of the road.

“Upon investigation, it was determined that Mr. Timberlake was operating his vehicle in an intoxicated condition,” police said, confirming earlier media reports. Timberlake’s eyes were “bloodshot and glassy,” and he “performed poorly on all standard field sobriety tests,” CBS reported, citing court documents.

The singer-actor, who is currently on tour in support of his latest album, reportedly told police he “had one martini” and was following his friends home, the network said.

“Mr. Timberlake was placed under arrest, processed, and held overnight for morning arraignment,” police said.

Timberlake shot to stardom as a member of the boy band NSYNC before launching a solo career and eventually making the transition to acting. He has won 10 Grammy awards and four Emmy awards. He is married to actress Jessica Biel. The couple has two sons. AFP

“Blooms.”

During the event, Domingo engaged BINI in a discussion about their impact on promoting OPM internationally. Member Maloi expressed gratitude and a clear vision for the group’s future.

“We make sure that the pressure doesn’t get to us; we use it to know where we can improve and take constructive criticism. We want to say thank you so much to our supporters and to everyone who listens to our songs,” Maloi said.

“We couldn’t have gotten here if it weren’t for you guys. To be representing OPM is such an honor for sure. We promise that we will not disappoint our supporters and will continue to take OPM to the international scene,” the P-pop idol added.

Gwen , on the other hand, emphasized BINI’s commitment to integrating Filipino culture into their music and performances.

“From the very start, we try to incorporate Filipino culture into our songs and performances, including in our styling. That’s why we are so happy that people are starting to recognize it. If people notice that we can contribute something to OPM, we’re thankful because it means lumalawak na ang naabot ng Pinoy talents,” Gwen noted.

Meanwhile, Sheena acknowledged the collective effort that has propelled BINI to their current success.

“ Malayo pa pero malayo na, kaya we’re grateful to the people na nakapalibot sa amin kasi hindi kami yung BINI ngayon if not for their support, especially to our Blooms, our management, God, and our family,” Sheena said. As Jollibee ambassadors, the eight-member girl band will be part of several campaigns and promotions, including special appearances and exclusive content for the fast food chain. A new TVC for the Cheesy Yumburger was launched during the TriNoMa showcase to kick off their partnership.

LEADING broadcast media company GMA Network and the Movie and Television Review Classification Board (MTRCB) came together for a compliance seminar titled “Responsableng Paggabay.” It was held on June 4 at the GMA Network Center in Quezon City. The seminar aimed to provide guidance and clarifications regarding the jurisdiction of the MTRCB over content regulations and rating classifications.

Representing GMA Network were Officer-in-Charge Mildred Zarah G. Garcia, Senior Assistant Vice President for Program Management Ma. Concepcion R. Agnes , and Assistant Vice President for Litigation and Special Projects Attorney Jose Vener C. Ibarra Also in attendance were GMA Network employees involved in TV content production, including those who produce TV plugs, publicity layouts, and theatrical cinema movies.

MTRCB Chairperson and CEO Lala Sotto led the discussion for “Responsableng Paggabay.” She emphasized the responsibility that comes with broadcasting, saying “Broadcasting is a privilege and not a right. And the airwaves utilized are a matter of public resource. With this privilege comes the duty to be conscientious about airing content.”

“Being a broadcast network,

GMA-7 shares the responsibility of ensuring viewer welfare and is expected to uphold standards that protect the Filipino audience and impressionable young minds from harmful content,” Sotto added.

Also lending their expertise on other topics were MTRCB Vice Chairperson Attorney Sonny Cases Jr. (“Scope of Authority and Guiding Principles”), Chief,

Legal Affairs Division Attorney Farinah B. Mindalano , REB, MPA (“Administrative Procedures”), and Board members Attorney Gaby Concepcion and Eloisa C. Matias (“Ratings for Television Programs”) and Dr. Lillian N. Gui (“Imitable Behavior”). Other MTRCB Board Members in attendance were Keats Musngi, Neal Del Rosario, and Bobby Andrews

From left: GMA

NATION’S GIRL GROUP. P-pop girl group BINI dethrones Taylor Swift as the Philippines’ most listened-to artist on Spotify

JOLLY GROUPFIE. BINI with Jollibee mascots and their loyal fans during the event

BINI is the newest ambassador of fast-food chain Jollibee

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Carry pride and purpose in every rainbow swipe

IKEA reaffirms its commitment to universal accessibility to a better everyday life, regardless of gender, sexuality, nationality, age, or background.

This Pride Month, IKEA customers are encouraged to proudly carry the STORSTOMMA bags, as the company pledges to donate 100 percent of sales proceeds from these reusable rainbow bags to LoveYourself.

The donations will support the refurbishment and improvement of home furnishings at LoveYourself Uni Hub in Pasay City. LoveYourself, a volunteer-based organization, focuses on raising HIV awareness, education, testing, and treatment within the LGBTQIA+ community.

“We are supporting the cause of LoveYourself as it opens a discussion on an important community topic—HIV. At IKEA, we believe that everyone should

have access to better everyday life. Supporting an organization that helps provide access to HIV testing, care, and treatment is a support to creating a better everyday life not only for those affected by it stigma.,” says Patrick Marcelo, IKEA Philippines Marketing and PR Manager.

A DENTURE care brand recently held an event at Trinoma Activity Center to kick off its new campaign called “Oplan Balik-Ngiti.” It was attended by 145 people including beneficiaries, aimed to teach everyone about taking care of dentures.

Through this event, the brand hopes to bring more smiles to Filipinos and encourage everyone to feel confident with their smiles. The event was hosted by actress Vargas Jeffrey Go Manager of Haleon Philippines, gave an inspiring speech about how their company wants to improve people’s oral health and help them feel more confident with dentures.

and Tuesday , the General

Christine Ticatic, Polident’s Brand Manager, shared exciting news for 2024 and talked about Polident’s goal to bring smiles to 1,000 Filipino people by providing free dentures. Polident also announced partnerships with the Philippine Dental

IKEA launched the STORSTOMMA bags in April 2022 as a statement of inclusivity and diversity and in support of the LGBTQIA+ community. In December 2022, IKEA released a Christmas campaign featuring a heartfelt coming-out story starring the Golden Gays. This year, the home furnishing brand takes it further by supporting LoveYourself’s HIV advocacy to create an impact on the community.

As an employer, IKEA is also committed to being a gender-equal business by ensuring equal opportunities for all genders in all countries, levels, and positions.

IKEA also believes that an inclusive workplace is a better workplace. IKEA co-workers will participate in the upcoming SM Mall of Asia Pride Run on June 22. These proud IKEA co-workers will be carrying the STORSTOMMA bag and wearing special IKEA pride shirts to celebrate Pride Month.

rainbow bag serves as a symbol of IKEA’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity as well as its support for the LGBTQIA+ community

www.IKREA.ph/foreveryone for

proceeds from the STORSOMMA bags will be donated to organization LoveYourself

By Angelica Villanueva

BULGARI is continuing its celebrations following its recent 140th-anniversary bash in Rome with the announcement of its newest house ambassador, beauty queen, and fashion influencer Pia Wurtzbach

In an announcement by the luxury jewelry brand, Miss Universe 2015 joins Bulgari as a ‘Friend of the House.’

Wurtzbach expressed her honor at joining the brand, citing Bulgari’s rich 140-year heritage of creating ‘pure gemstone magic.’

“[Bulgari has] been creating pure gemstone magic for over 140 years. And to be part of what’s next, the years to come, is truly an honor,” Pia shared in a statement.

She also mentioned that she’s particularly drawn to the stories and emotions each piece embodies for the wearer.

Association (PDA), Philippine Association of Registered Dental Technologists (PARDTI), and new partners like Mercury Drug, St. Joseph Drug, and Rose Pharmacy.

During the event, Dr. Emmanuel Centeno from PDA spoke about the country’s oral health goals, while Ricky Robles from

“Bvlgari is the epitome of timeless beauty. The stories behind each piece are like chapters from a classic novel—rich, captivating, and full of intrigue. There’s a certain call and power whenever I wear Bvlgari. It’s like stepping into a whole new world of elegance and confidence,” continued Pia.

As a brand ambassador, Pia will showcase the transformative power of Bulgari jewelry.

“To me, it’s not just about the jewelry; it’s about how it transforms a woman, how it empowers her to conquer any room with grace and poise—and live boldly in the moment,” she added.

The beauty queen also shared that she was thrilled to be part of Bulgari’s story and share the brand’s message of craftsmanship and creativity, no matter the inspiration—the eternal city, deep emotions, or the beauty of nature.

talked about why it’s important to get dentures from safe and certified places. Actress Melai Cantiveros , who supports Polident’s advocacy, shared her own story about dental health and the importance of a confident smile. She also cleared up some myths about taking care of dentures with Dr. Aimee Yang-Go The event had booths

From left: Actress Tuesday Vargas, Dr. Aimee Yang-Go, and actress Melai Cantiveros

IKEA’s STORSOMMA rainbow bags were first released in April 2022

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2024

Writer Writer

ADRIATICO,

C4 LIFE

ULTIMATE

personality

and social

How Tito Mikee makes men’s grooming look cool

and photographer Wig Tysmans during the event

THE digital space is increasingly saturated with content; thus, standing out requires more than just talent – it demands authenticity, relatability, and a bit of luck. This insight comes from TV and social media personality Mikee Reyes, known online simply as Tito Mikee

Once a basketball player and fitness instructor, Tito Mikee has transformed into a popular content creator, alongside his girlfriend CK de Leon, who shares this creative journey.

In an interview with Manila Standard Life at a Watsons event in SM North Edsa, Quezon City, Mikee, the “poster boy” of the brand’s “Himtayan” campaign, happily answered our questions. He talked about how he tries to make looking after your health and appearance seem cool online.

“I make sure to take care of myself,” Mikee said, “I pay attention to my body and my clothes. As more people noticed me, they found my journey inspiring. I think everyone should feel confident about themselves.”

“With the right set of products and through my content, I want men to feel cool and confident about taking care of themselves.”

For Mikee, the support from their community has been a key to his success as a content creator and social media influencer.

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

“I was just lucky that I got the ‘titos market.’ I always enjoy interacting with people,” Tito Mikee went on.

Despite having the “pang-diinang recipe” of hard work and luck that has made him a social media star, Tito Mikee remains grounded because he firmly believes that online popularity is fleeting and will not last a lifetime. At the same time, he doesn’t want to be complacent as his passion for content creation is fueled by his “being paranoid of not doing something good.”

“I understand that hard work plays a significant role, but luck also plays a crucial part. CK and I deeply appreciate what we have and our current situation because

Sometimes we think too much about whether someone will watch it or not. With content creation, you just keep putting out content and see what works and what doesn’t. You get to know yourself a little bit better: what you can do and what you can’t until you understand how the content space works,” he carried on.

Meanwhile, as one of the faces of Himtayan Club, Tito Mikee is proud of the campaign’s achievement. He’s honored to be part of the campaign and the accolade it received.

“It’s our second year, and I’m happy that it even won an award,” he said alluding to the campaign’s Silver Award in the prestigious 59th Anvil Awards.

During the Himtayan event, which Tito Mikee hosted, three men shared inspiring stories of how Watsons has helped them enhance their confidence and well-being through grooming routines and self-care.

“I’m very appreciative of our communities, CK and I don’t take people for granted. We’ve come a long way, and that’s because of the people who follow and support our content online,” he pointed out.

“We appreciate it when people tell me stories that they bought something because they saw me wearing it. Those are heartwarming stories,” he added.

The shift to content creation was unexpected for Mikee. The pandemic served as a pivotal moment for him.

“I entered the content creation space at the right time during the pandemic. I never thought that I would be a content creator. I was a basketball player and a fitness

instructor, but even

we know it can be taken away from us at any moment,” he explained. “The more you appreciate, the more you don’t want to let go. When you reach a certain level of success, you need to keep going; you become paranoid that it might disappear, so you do better each time.”

For Mikee, authenticity is also important in content creation.

“I want my audience to find me as a friend online. Alam mo yung kapag pinanunuod ka nila eh para kayong close?” Tito Mikee beamed and then offered advice to aspiring content creators saying: “You just have to start. You have to gain the experience. You don’t learn something if you don’t start.”

There’s no better teacher than experience. You won’t be good at something unless you start. You need to start and educate yourself.

LUXURY beauty brand Clé de Peau Beauté and UNICEF have wrapped up a successful first year of their partnership, impacting over 3 million girls globally. They’re on track to help even more girls by 2025 through their Skills4Girls programs. These programs focus on teaching girls important skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This is crucial because many girls miss out on education and job opportunities compared to boys.

Carla Haddad Mardini from UNICEF said, “Most jobs today need digital skills, but girls often don’t get the same chances as boys. We’re happy to see progress in closing this gap with Clé de Peau Beauté.” Since starting in 2019 and continuing in 2023, their goal is to reach 5.7 million girls in countries like Bangladesh, China, and Indonesia. In Bangladesh, they’re

improving school programs to help more girls learn skills they’ll need for the future.

Mizuki Hashimoto from Clé de Peau Beauté visited Bangladesh and saw the impact: “Seeing how education changes girls’ lives in Bangladesh was inspiring. We’re committed to making a difference through education.”

Their efforts have already changed lives, like one girl in Bangladesh who now trains others after learning computer skills through Skills4Girls.

Clé de Peau Beauté has also donated $17.4 million to UNICEF’s Gender Equality Program. This money comes from their special campaign where a part of their product sales goes to UNICEF. As Clé de Peau Beauté and UNICEF continue working together, they’re helping

Migs Venegas, a Gen Z newbie and courtside reporter, credited Watsons for bolstering his confidence with grooming products that suited his lifestyle, inspired by lessons from his grandfather. Christian Cocjin, a busy financial consultant and content creator, highlighted how Watsons supports his grooming needs amidst a hectic schedule, aiding him through life transitions.

Renowned photographer Wig Tysmans, celebrated as Lolo Idol, emphasized timeless values of self-care and healthy living, finding all he needs at Watsons across different life stages.

The event showcased interactive segments by different brands focused on men’s grooming essentials.

Sharon Decapia, SAVP of Marketing, PR, and Sustainability at Watsons Philippines, expressed pride in normalizing self-care and healthy living through these stories, aiming to inspire others.

“At Watsons, we embrace all men, whichever generation they’re in. This has inspired us to showcase stories of men from different generations for this year’s Himtayan Club. Our Watsons men are normalizing self-care and healthy living, and we hope they will be able to inspire others to also look good, do good, and feel great by finding products that suit their lifestyle here at Watsons,” shared Decapia.

back then, papansin na talaga ako,” he said in jest.

UNICEF and Clé de Peau Beauté are focused on helping girls through the Skills4Girls programs

The Skills4Girls programs teach girls important skills in STEM which gives them the opportunity to have a better future

From left: Financial consultant and content creator Christian Cocjin, courtside reporter Migs Venegas,

TITO. TV

media

Mikee Reyes is known for being a content creator alongside his girlfriend CK de Leon

Watsons Philippines SAVP of Marketing, PR, and Sustainability Sharon Decapia talks about the brand’s aim to normalize self-care and healthy living for men

Tito Mikee fosters the essence of the ‘Himtayan’ campaign as he confidently practices self-care and healthy living