Manila Standard - 2024 June 21 - Friday

Opposition balks at Sara as leader

By Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

VICE President Sara Duterte as opposition leader? Not so fast, said several groups representing the political opposition in the country.

Liberal Party president and Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said Duterte’s resignation from the Marcos Cabinet does not automatically make her an opposition leader.

“Vice President Sara Duterte may assume the leadership of the partisan opposition to the Marcos Jr. adminis-

position to both the current administration and Duterte’s breakaway power bloc,” the lawmaker said.

“The real opposition has a foundation of accountability, transparency, and concern for the citizens, which cannot be seen in Vice President Sara’s track record,”

Two Chinese warships spotted off Balabac island

By Manolo Del Rio

TWO Chinese warships were spotted on Wednesday sailing through the waters off Balabac island, at the southern tip of Palawan, where one of the four Philippine bases for use by US forces under the Enhanced

Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) is located.

Roy Reyes, an entrepreneur and former barangay captain of Barangay Bancalaan in this coastal municipality, said on Thursday that he witnessed the two ves sels prominently flying the Chinese flag.

GYMNAST

Rey E. Requejo

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) on Thursday confirmed the arrest of businessman and former Negros Oriental governor Pryde Henry A. Teves, in connection with the financing terrorism charges filed against him and 12 others before the Regional Trial Court of Cebu City.

The DOJ said the 50-year-old Teves was arrested by virtue of an arrest war-

rant issued by Cebu RTC Branch 74 last May 13, 2024, for violations of the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012.

Teves was arrested at Dr. Vicente Locsin Street, Barangay Taclobo, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental by members of the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CID).

‘Hall of Fame’ Best Property Developer

Megaworld is the first and only real estate company in the Philippines that won three consecutive years as Best Developer in two of the biggest property awards in the country. company’s ’Hall of Fame’ awards came from the Property and Real Estate Excellence Awards by the International Real Estate Federation of the Philippines (FIABCI-Philippines) for 20152017, and the Philippines Property Awards by PropertyGuru for 2016-2018.

Blinken, Manalo raise alarm over China’s ‘escalatory actions’

By Rachelle Tonelada and Rex Espiritu

UNITED States Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Philippines Foreign Affairs

Secretary Enrique Manalo raised the alarm over the recent “escalatory actions” of China in the West Philippine Sea.

The US State Department said the phone conversation revolved around the violent behavior demonstrated by China Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels against a lawful routine rotation and resupply (RoRe) mission of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Ayungin Shoal on June 17.

US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said Blinken called China’s actions “dangerous and irresponsible.”

“Secretary Blinken emphasized that the PRC’s actions undermine regional peace

Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT),” Miller said in a statement.

The Philippine Navy, for its part, said there will be “changes” in its protocols after their rubber boats were attacked, but did not give details.

Philippine Navy spokesperson for West Philippine Sea (WPS) Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad also urged other countries to be vigilant amid China’s aggressive actions.

“Other countries should now be very careful in looking at what China is doing in the WPS, because it will also be done to them, if not it’s already being done,” Trinidad said.

“Our actions will always be guided by the rules of engagement. It will always be within the bounds of international law. We are here to assert our sovereignty. We are here to ensure our sovereign rights are protected,” he added.

By Abigail Adriatico

EL NINO AID. President Marcos shakes the hand of one of the 12,000 farmers, fisherfolk and their families who were affected by El Niño in the CARAGA region.

munici ves-

and stability and underscored the United States’ ironclad commitments

By Charles Dantes and Vito Barcelo

former Senator Leila de Lima on X.

El Niño-hit Caraga folk get aid

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday distributed P158.15 million in aid to nearly 12,000 farmers, fisherfolk, and their families affected by El Niño in the CARAGA region.

The aid supports the region’s development and addresses the impact of the drought.

During visits to Surigao del Sur and Butuan City, Marcos handed over financial assistance, including P12.48 million to Surigao del Sur, P50 million to Agusan del Sur, P46.84 mil-

lion to Butuan City, P28.26 million to Agusan del Norte, P10.57 million to Surigao del Norte, and P10 million to Dinagat Islands.

"Just like you, the government is working hard to make Butuan even stronger as the center of trade, industry, and governance here in Caraga,"

President Marcos said in his speech during the distribution of aid in Butuan City on Thursday.

The P60 million will be distributed through the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), including P10,000 in cash assistance for 9,195 beneficiaries under the DSWD’s Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita (AKAP) program and another P10,000 in presidential assistance for farmers, fisherfolk, and selected families.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez’s office also provided five kilos of rice to each beneficiary. The DA will supply farm machin -

ery, equipment, and credit assistance. TESDA will offer livelihood starter tool kits and training allowances, while the Department of Labor and Employmen will provide financial aid through various programs.

President Marcos urged residents to prepare for the upcoming La Niña season, assuring readiness with funds and food supplies for potential calamities.

The CARAGA region, comprising Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Sur, continues to receive government support to mitigate the effects of natural disasters.

Rody: I’m just old, but not about to die anytime soon

SENATOR Bong Go went live on Thursday with former President Rodrigo Duterte on his Facebook page to show he was “alive and kicking.”

Rumors of Duterte’s passing had circulated after fake reports of his death were posted in social media.

In Go’s post, Duterte said he has been

staying home as he is already retired from politics.

“Mga kababayan ko, kamusta kayong lahat? Ako’y matanda na at hindi natin maiwasan ‘yung balita na, ‘yung nagkasakit. Wala naman akong sakit at feeling ko hindi naman ako mamatay ngayon kaagad,” he said.

He added: “Matanda na ako. Nagsilbi na ako sa inyo, pinakamatagal, mayor, tapos presidente. Wag kayong magtaka na mamamatay ako. Mas mabuti pang magtanong bakit buhay pa ‘yan. ‘Yun pa. Pero kung sabihin mo, nabalitaan ninyo, may chismis... Lahat tayo, ikaw, ako, la -

hat ng kaharap ko, mamamatay tayo. Hindi ako exception.”

In a mix of English and Filipino, Go reaffirmed his support for the Dutertes.

“Just like Duterte advised me then and now: ‘Do what is right, fulfill your duty to the country, and prioritize the interest of Filipinos,’” he added.

He took video footage of one of the warships from onboard his private boat, while sailing in the general area of Mangsee and Onok Islands, which are under Balabac’s jurisdiction.

Based on the video, the Chinese vessel appeared to be a 590-foot “Dalian” class guided-missile destroyer.

Reyes noted that Balabac residents are not new to seeing international cargo vessels passing through this area, but this is the first time the locals have seen Chinese naval ships so deep inside Philippine territory.

The Philippine military started building a three-kilometer runway and a pier in the island even before it was designated an EDCA site.

Teves is the brother of expelled Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. who is now considered a fugitive after multiple murder charges were filed against him in connection with the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and nine others last March 4, 2023.

Arnolfo and Pryde Henry along with 11 other individuals were designated by the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) as terrorists belonging to the so-called Teves Terrorist Group (TTG) in July 2023.

The ATC took into consideration all sworn statements, CCTV footage showing Degamo’s assassination, various news footage showing the immediate arrest of the suspects, Senate inquiry in aid of legislation and other pieces of evidence gathered by various law government agencies in declaring Teves’ group as terrorists.

Arnolfo is currently in TimorLeste awaiting the decision of Timor-Leste’s Court of Appeals in connection with the extradition request filed by the Philippine government.

He left the country prior to Degamo’s killing and refused to return after being implicated as the mastermind in the Degamo killing.

Arnolfo has sought political asylum in Timor-Leste, claiming that he is a victim of political persecution under the Marcos administration.

“The arrest of Pryde Henry Alipit Teves demonstrates our resolute commitment to fighting terrorism and upholding the rule of law,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said, in a statement.

The court has set Teves’ bail at P200,000 for his temporary liberty.

“This arrest underscores the government’s commitment to upholding the law and bringing terrorism suspects to justice,” Remulla said.

“The opposition puts the people first, and not increasing and maintaining power. Not defending wanted religious leaders or slaying thousands of Filipinos. And especially not playing blind to the bullying of fisherfolk by foreigners trying to steal our territories,” De Lima said.

Makabayan bloc lawmakers France Castro (ACT Teachers), Arlene Brosas (Gabriela), and Raoul Manuel (Kabataan) likewise questioned is pro-human rights and against corruption.

“Our position on that has been clear, she’s not a true opposition,” Brosas said.

She said Duterte is hounded by corruption issues over the multi-million peso confidential funds her office spent in 11 days in 2022.

Brosas also accused the Vice President of being a red-tagger.

Militant groups agreed.

The activist youth group Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan (SPARK) said Duterte’s resignation was self-serving as it was intended for tbe upcoming 2025 midterms elections.

“While we welcome Sara stepping

down from the Cabinet... we should not count her out from the game of musical chairs traditional politicians are about to play in next year’s elections,” said John Lazaro, SPARK National Coordinator.

“Expect Sara and her allies to be openly positioning themselves in opposition to Marcos, rebranding their worn out rhetoric and recycling the same old personalities,” he added.

Transport group PISTON said Duterte’s decision to quit as Education Secretary and vice-chairperson of the NTF-ELCAC was a reflection of “an ongoing power struggle leading up to the 2025 mid-term elections and an attempt to cement their positions for the subsequent presidential elections.”

“The Dutertes try to pose as opposition figures, but they are no different from the Marcoses....The transportation sector will never forget how Rodrigo Duterte cursed and threatened to ‘crush’ protesting drivers and operators during the anti-phaseout strikes in 2017 and 2018,” PISTON said in a statement.

Lawyer Harry Roque on Wednesday said he sees the Vice President being the new opposition leader following her breakaway from the Marcos Cabinet.

At the House, Manila Rep. Joel Chua said it is now time to undo the disaster Duterte did at the Department of Education.

He also accused the Vice President of “living a lie” and faking a “facade of unity” with Mr. Marcos.

“It is now time to unravel the havoc she has caused in DepEd. It is time to undo the damage she has inflicted upon teachers, schools, and students,” he said.

“It is time to unmask the appointments made in DepEd in aid of the 2028 (presidential) elections,” Chua added.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, for his part, called for the sustained implementation of crucial education reforms to address the sector’s pressing challenges following Duterte’s resignation.

Gatchalian, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, underscored the importance of a smooth transition at DepEd.

Senator Christopher Lawrence Go said he will always stand by the Vice President, “from then, until now, and for all the challenges that are yet to come.”

“As we always say, there is always a time for everything. This is the time to prioritize the welfare of our fellow countrymen even more,” Go said.

Chinese coast guard sailors brandishing weapons including sticks, knives and an axe clashed with the Philippine naval vessels, a dramatic new footage released by the Armed Forces of the Philippines showed. The AFP said a Chinese axe-wielding sailor had “threatened to injure” a Filipino soldier, while others were “explicitly threatening to harm” Filipino troops.

A Filipino sailor lost a thumb in the incident, which saw the Chinese coast guard confiscate or destroy Philippine equipment, including guns.

Manila’s footage of the clash stands in stark contrast to photos released by Beijing’s state media on Wednesday, which did not show Chinese forces wielding weapons.

Beijing insisted that its coast guard behaved in a “professional and restrained” way during the confrontation and claimed “no direct measures” were taken against Filipino personnel.

But in the clip shared by Manila, a Chinese sailor standing on the deck of one of the boats can be clearly seen waving an axe.

Another clip showed a Chinese coast guard sailor violently striking the inflatable boat with a stick. A second man can also be seen stabbing the boat with a knife.

“The (Chinese coast guard) personnel then began hurling rocks and other objects at our personnel,” Manila said.

“They also slashed the (inflatable boats), rendering them inoperable.” The Filipino sailors, clad in brown camouflage with helmets and vests, were not carrying weapons in the clips.

“Amid this violent confrontation, the CCG (Chinese coast guard) also deployed tear gas, intensifying the chaos and confusion, while continuously blaring sirens to further disrupt communication,” the caption read. With AFP

representation of Philippine culture and heritage.

“Proudly representing the Philippines at the Paris 2024 Olympics, boxers Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam will carry the Philippine flag in exquisite barongs designed by Francis Libiran. Every element of the design showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines,” POC said in a social media post.

Libiran is known for his intricately designed pieces, made with his signature design techniques like art deco patterns and cutouts, custom lasercut materials, intricate embellishments, and custom embroidery.

This includes 46 buildings and all vehicles parked in the vicinity.

In a separate letter addressed to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and Bureau of Immigration, PAOCC ordered the deportation of 156 foreign nationals apprehended in the POGO hub.

PAOCC directed the Department of Justice and BI to facilitate the transportation of the apprehended foreign nationals to temporary detention facility and facilitate the summary deportation.

Meanwhile, the Association of General and Flag Officers, Inc. (AGFO) joined calls by legislators, the Catholic

Church, and civil society groups for the “immediate and complete closure of the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO) nationwide.”

“Many of these gambling outlets are used as fronts by organized crime groups for human trafficking, prostitution, kidnapping, cyber scam, illegal drug trade, torture, surveillance and cyberattacks on government agencies and other offenses that severely threaten Filipino values and security,” the group said in a statement.

AGFO reechoes the President’s “zero tolerance policy for corruption and human rights abuses...and calls on the government to nip the bud of national insecurity brought about by the POGO at the soonest,” As this developed, the Department of

Labor and Employment (DOLE) said that more than 22,000 workers will lose their jobs once the government implements a total POGO ban.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said that this early, the department is taking steps on how to provide for the affected workers if the closure of the POGO companies pushes through.

The labor chief said around 50 legitimate POGOs are operating in the country where more than 22,000 Filipinos are currently hired while at least 8,000 foreigners, mostly Vietnamese, are working in legal POGOs.

“We have a big challenge or problem to face if the operations of legitimate POGO firms will be closed, because it will affect the employment of some workers,” Laguesma said.

He said the ban on POGOs will also affect thousands of foreigners who are working in the legal POGO industry. According to the DOLE, from January to April 2024, it issued around 8,000 alien employment permits (AEP)to foreign workers employed in licensed internet gaming operators in t he country. Laguesma said that most of these foreign applicants were Vietnamese, followed by Chinese. There were also Indonesian, Thai, and other nationalities who sought permission to work in the online gaming industry in the Philippines.

More than 300,000 AEPs were issued to foreign workers from 2019 to 2023, of which, around 70,000 were cancelled for violations. With Rex Espiritu

PASSING THROUGH? One of two Chinese warships was caught on video Wednesday while sailing off Balabac island, at the southernmost tip of Palawan. Roy Reyes

CSC cautions public against persons posing as workers

THE Civil Service Commission

(CSC) cautioned the public about individuals pretending to be CSC employees or officials requesting for sensitive information or documents via text messages, emails, and phone calls.

CSC chairperson Karlo Nograles confirmed that the agency has received reports of unscrupulous parties posing as CSC officials to extort information, money, and favors from both government agencies and the general public.

“We are reminding the public to be vigilant by directly verifying the authenticity of the transaction from the CSC Regional or Field Office concerned,” said Chairperson Nograles.

No individual or entity has permission to use the agency’s name and logo for online activities and promotion, regardless if it’s for solicitation, production of materials, enrollment to review classes, or recruitment purposes, according to the CSC.

Nograles added that the CSC is ready to take the necessary legal actions against violators who are found guilty of this crime since their action undermines the integrity of the agency.

“We would also like to warn individuals that usurpation of authority or falsely representing to be an officer, agent or representative of any department or agency of the Philippine Government is a violation under Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code.”

The public is advised to check the CSC website at www.csc.gov.ph to access a complete directory of CSC officials and contact details of all offices, and report any encounter with individuals or group falsely representing the agency to the CSC’s Contact Center ng Bayan at 0908-881-6565.

The CSC also reminded the public that it maintains only one official account on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and one page for each CSC Regional Office.

Malabon City gets COA nod for e ective use of public funds

MALABON City Mayor Jeannie

Sandoval vowed to improve the use of public funds after the Malabon City government received a “qualified opinion” in the Commission on Audit’s (COA) Annual Audit Report for the Calendar Year 2023.

This COA commended Malabon City for its usage of funds following the highest standards of accountability and transparency in service delivery.

The COA said that the auditor who conducted the annual audit rendered the qualified opinion to the Malabon City government “on the fairness of the presentation of the City’s financial statements in view of the significance of the exceptions noted in the audit as stated in the Independent Auditor’s Report.”

Aligned with Sandoval’s goal to improve the quality of living in Malabon, the local government has implemented programs and projects that make service delivery more accessible to the Malabueños.

The programs, such as the Malabon Ahon Blue Card and housing initiatives, ensure the efficient delivery of assistance to the Malabueños for all their needs, including safety and security.

As of May 28, the local government already distributed 83,891 Malabon Ahon Blue Cards (MABC) to the heads of families in the city. MABC is one of the mayor’s flagship programs, launched in December 2022, to improve the provision of aid to the residents, making the delivery of service effective and efficient.

MABC became a finalist in the Development Academy of the Philippines’ Government Best Practice Recognition in 2023 that promotes and showcases outstanding and innovative practices demonstrated by local government units or public sector organizations.

New plans to address nurse shortage

By Charles Dantes

THE government said it formulate new efforts to address the nursing shortage in the Philippines and support countries seeking to hire Filipino healthcare professionals.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. discussed updates with the Private Sector Advisory Council-Healthcare Sector Group and government agencies at Malacañan Palace on creating a resilient healthcare system.

PSAC Healthcare Sector Lead Pao-

lo Borromeo highlighted the Clinical Care Associates (CCA) program, designed to help underboard nursing graduates pass their licensure exams.

“Just happy to say Mr. President that we continue building momentum for what we call clinical care associ-

ates’ program. The CCA program as you might recall is our attempt to help the thousands of underboard nurses, people who have graduated from nursing degree, but for one reason or another, they did not pass the test during their time,” Borromeo said.

The first batch of 457 CCAs is currently in board review programs, with recruitment ongoing for a second batch for the May 2025 exams.

Since 2022, there has been an increase in nursing board passers due to a recalibrated curriculum. An Enhanced Master’s Degree in Nursing Program will launch in August

Bicol police conduct community immersion programs

By Rosas Olarte

THE Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO5) recently initiated a two-week “Halu-Bilo” project to beautify and improve communities in the province through immersion programs.

“Halu-Bilo,” a Tagalog word which means gathering together or socializing, is part of the Police Community Affairs and Development Course (PCADC), Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, PRO5 spokesperson said.

From June 5 to June 18, 2024, various teams from PRO5 conducted Community Immersion Programs to selected pioneer barangays in Legazpi City, including Imalnod, Mariawa, and San Francisco; and Dinoronan and San Vicente in Daraga.

Aiming to build trust and cooperation, the police teams visited the barangays, engaged directly with residents, introduced their programs to the community to gain their participation and understanding.

Lectures and dialogues designed to educate residents on how to prevent becoming victims of crime and how they can contribute to maintaining peace and order, basic first aid, road safety, fire safety, waste segregation and beautification were held.

“The interactions promoted a deeper understanding and collaboration between the police and the community,” Calibaquib reported.

Various government, non-government, civil society and private individual supporters were invited to come

with police teams during the activities.

The beautification and renovation of the old park of Barangay San Francisco brought happiness to children to once again experience playing outdoors instead of engaging in gadgets.

Medical outreach activities were also conducted offering free services on check-up, X-RAY, ECG, CBC, Blood Chemistry, Ultrasound, Urinalysis, 2D Echo, and Echocardiogram.

Calubaquib added that it is the goal of the leadership of PRO5 Regional Director PBGen. Andre P. Dizon to demonstrate dedication of service of all policemen in maintaining peace and order a shared commitment, requiring active participation from both the police and the community to creating a safer, more cohesive society.

IMPROVEMENT. Children enjoy the playground in one of the communities in Legazpi which bene tted from the beauti cation and improvement project initiated by the Police Regional O ce in Bicol (PRO5).

at 17 pilot higher educational institutions (HEIs) to produce more nursing educators.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) are negotiating bilateral agreements with countries willing to subsidize the education of Filipino nursing students for future employment. Austria is one of the countries collaborating with the Philippines on this initiative.

Local government units (LGUs) are also encouraged to adopt hospitals and implement measures to address the nursing shortage.

IN BRIEF

interest on business and transfer taxes for various entities and individuals, in line with efforts to provide financial relief to the community. Joel Zurbano THE Caloocan City government, through the efforts of the City Health Department (CHD), held a Men’s Congress at the Buena Park to provide free health services, raise awareness, and break the stigma regarding men’s health concerns More than 230 participants from various organizations including members of the Philippine National Police as well as youth leaders from the Sangguniang Kabataan attended talks on mental health, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and prostate cancer, and availed of free services such as risk assessments, HIV testing and counselling, and even free facial and diamond peel. City Mayor Dale Gonzalo Malapitan reiterated his administration’s priority to create comprehensive health programs and expressed his support for a gendersensitive approach to create holistic response to concerns encountered by his constituents. Jun David WestMinCom holds humanitarian training THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) held on Wednesday a two-day learning session for humanitarian trainers in Camp Navarro, Zamboanga City. The workshop was organized to develop a deeper understanding of the role of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which implements the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), in the overall mission and tactical operations of the AFP.

“The activity will increase collaboration between the AFP and the ICRC in integrating IHL and human rights (policies) in the AFP systems and processes,” said WestMinCom Commander Lt. Gen. William Gonzales. Among the participants are the civilmilitary operations officers of the joint task forces, brigades, battalions, and operational command units of WestMinCom. Rex Espiritu

Inquiry sought on spate of rapes of minors

IN BRIEF

Increased protection for Pinoy seamen eyed

OFW party-list Rep. Marisa Del Mar Magsino says intensified protection for Filipino seafarers should now be implemented.

“Filipino seafarers should be protected at all times, especially when navigating dangerous areas at sea,” Magsino stressed.

She also backed the Department of Migrant Workers’ (DMW) to impose a temporary ban on Filipino sailors in hot zones.

DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac said they are reviewing policies on prohibiting seafarers to board ships which will pass through waters classified as highrisk or warlike zones by the International Bargaining Forum (IBF).

“Magsino also seeks better protection and compensation for Filipino seafarers through the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers which is awaiting the signature of President Marcos.

LTO opens new branch in Naga City, Cebu

A NEW Land Transportation Office (LTO) branch on Thursday opened to the public in Naga City, Cebu to bring government services closer to the people in keeping with President Marcos’ instructions under his ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ governance agenda.

LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said the additional extension and satellite offices would reinforce the ongoing full digitalization efforts of the agency’s services from application and renewal of a driver’s license to the application and renewal of motor vehicle registration.

“Our digitalization efforts, along with our plans to open more satellite and extension offices, would make it easier for the Filipino people to enjoy fast and comfortable services of the LTO,” Mendoza said. Mendoza urged all LTO officials and employees to continue extending the free theoretical driving course to as many poor Filipinos as possible. Rio N. Araja

Angeles set to relocate 535 displaced families

Cagayan eyes heightened construction activities

By Jessica M. Bacud

TUGUEGARAO City—Following the offer by the Philippine Constructors Association (PCA) to assist in enhancing opportunities for local skilled workers, plans are afoot to vigorously push the growth of the construction industry in Cagayan province.

Tuguegarao Mayor Maila Ting-Que, in a press briefing, highlighted the PCA’s bid to extend services that would provide strong skills and knowledge for the workers, resulting in heightened in the construction industry toward nation-building.

“The contractors all over the Philippines want to somehow professionalize the construction industry. How will they be doing this, by supporting already with the help of Technical Education and Skills Development

Authority (TESDA) those who are working in the construction industry. PCA don’t want that the Philippines will be left behind in the building industry,” the mayor said.

Besides, the city and province must maintain strong ties with the PCA in order to successfully carry out the mandate of implementers in accordance with the set standards of various industries around the world, she added.

Cagayan Gov. Manuel Mamba said the Cagayanos excel in various fields and that every one of them will be treated as “world class” workers.

“Therefore it is time to go forward and promote the provision of skills to the workforce,” Mamba said.

The governor also emphasized the importance of proper and responsible execu-

tion, particularly in government infrastructure projects, adding that by providing workers with adequate knowledge, the quality of the projects could be improved even further, allowing them to be used efficiently, as opposed to others, which are easily destroyed.

PCA president Ronaldo Elepaño Jr. cited the association’s mission of promoting the development of the construction industry through initiatives, programs, and projects.

The PCA aims to raise awareness of the opportunities accessible to skilled professionals in the province. As a result, they are collaborating with local governments to achieve their goal of boosting the “industry-led” and “marketdriven” building industry in the country since 1945, Elepaño said.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Loren

Legarda has filed a resolution seeking a legislative inquiry into the recent spate of rapes involving children.

Legarda raised concerns over the alarming increase of child rape cases, noting that many of the perpetrators were either relatives of the victims or trusted persons.

“We need to find out whether our current laws are enough or are even being properly implemented to punish the guilty, protect the victims, and empower the state to help the victims recover anew,” the senator stressed.

Earlier, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) released a statement strongly condemning reported rape incidents involving minors.

The CHR viewed the cases as a serious violation of human rights, and stressed the need for effective protective measures for children.

According to the Child Protection Network Foundation, Inc. (CPN), 2,890 of the 4,079 child violence cases reported from January 1 to May 26, 2024, were sexual abuses or assaults.

“We are seeking for Congress to pass Senate Bill No. 2401, which we filed, to institutionalize the establishment of Women and Children Protection Units in all government hospitals,” Legarda said.

“We are also seeking to assess if the substantial amount spent regularly on gender issues is making a significant impact on the most critical issues on gender and child rights,” she added. Legarda, who pushed the passage of numerous laws championing women’s and children’s rights, called for better implementation of the statutes, notably the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act and the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act. She also sought proper implementation of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and its expanded version, and An Act Promoting for Stronger Protection Against Rape and Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, Increasing the Age for Determining the Commission of Statutory Rape.

ANGELES City–About three hectares of land has been allocated as a relocation site for residents of Sitio Balubad, in Barangay Anunas, Angeles City, who were displaced last March 12 after the 73-hectare land they were occupying was reclaimed by its owner, the Clarkhills Properties Corp.. Angeles Mayor Carmelo Lazatin Jr. said the three-hectare area in Magalang town would be able to accommodate some 535 families who were identified in a recent census undertaken by the city government. The affected families were identified during the mapping ordered by Mayor Lazatin with a view to assisting them in the relocation process. Lazatin said each beneficiary would be given a 45-square-meter lot at the relocation site in Magalang town. Butch Gunio DMW

A TOTAL of 156 Region 1 policemen have completed their five-day water search and rescue (WASAR) training at the Philippine Coast Guard district in North Western Luzon (CGDNWZN).

In his remarks during the commencement rites, Philippine National Police Region 1 director Brig. Gen. Lou Evangelista commended the graduates and the instructors for their commitment and hard work to during the intensive WASAR training.

For his part, CGDNWLZN

chief Capt. Ivan Roldan highlighted the significance of the training

in bolstering the region’s emergency response capabilities during natural disasters such as typhoons and floods that frequently affect Region 1.

The newly minted WASAR policemen are deemed more capable in carrying out water-borne rescue operations, significantly enhancing the region’s capacity to response to emergencies and save lives.

The initiative underscores the ongoing efforts of the PNP and PCG to improve disaster preparedness and ensure the safety and resilience of communities in Region 1.

By Vito Barcelo

THE search for the missing Filipino seafarers would be difficult after the MV Tutor, the bulk carrier attacked by Yemen-based Houthi rebels sunk, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

In a press briefing, DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac said the ship sank in the eastern coast of Eritrea along the Red Sea.

Cacdac said they received a report that two salvage vessels were on their way to recover the Tutor when they were informed that the ship was believed to have sunk.

“On June 18, when a ship returned on the scene supposedly to commence the search and also the salvaging operation with respect to the ship, she could not be found, the MV Tutor,” the DMW chief said.

“The vessel was lost and apparently sank. There is an oil slick as reported that was spotted at around the same projected location of the ship,” he added.

The MV Tutor was struck with missiles on June 12 and had been taking on water, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

The DMW is still waiting for word regarding the prospects of a possible search based on what will happen in the next few days.

Erin Camarillo Cortez

OPINION

Closing the loop

IMAGINE this: Traffic congestion along EDSA particularly during the rush hours reduced by one-fourth, allowing motorists and commuters to go to work or return home at a faster pace than before.

That’s the goal of the integrated operations of the MRT-3 and LRT-1, which we wrote about earlier.

We’re referring to the unsolicited proposal (USP) by the joint venture of Metro Pacific Investment Corporation and the Japanese conglomerate Sumitomo for the rehabilitation, operation and maintenance of MRT-3 and its integration with the LRT-1.

In effect, this will ‘close the loop’ between the two light rail systems.

The USP has already been approved by the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Program and is now awaiting the green light from the Department of Transportation.

The joint venture seeks to solve the problems that plagued MRT-3 in the past and greatly inconvenienced the riding public.

The aging system is approaching the end of its design life and, although the recent general overhaul/ rehabilitation may have given a life extension of five years, maintenance will become the primary concern in the years ahead.

The joint venture thus wants to implement a comprehensive capital expenditure and a systems plan to address immediate, medium and long-term needs and service objectives of the aging infrastructure.

This will be complemented by the efficient execution of the appropriate maintenance regimen.

The plan is to implement what they call Through Train Operations, which will result in passenger convenience, decrease travel time and travel expense of passengers, and, more importantly, mitigate the traffic congestion along the combined alignment and especially along EDSA.

The MPIC-Sumitomo joint venture will rely on its unequalled technical and institutional knowledge of the MRT 3 system.

Sumitomo had been MRT 3’s contractor and maintenance provider from 2000 to 2012 and current rehabilitation and maintenance provider from 2019 to 2025.

The joint venture’s unsolicited proposal will also bank on Sumitomo’s proven high quality of maintenance as evidenced by superior transport services and continuous passenger growth up to 2012.

It was re-engaged in December 2018 to solve system degradation due to poor maintenance from 2012 to 2017. Its rehabilitation work for MRT 3 proceeded without delay even during the COVID period.

What happened was that MRT 3’s operations had declined from its reliance on 20 trains during its peak in early 2012 to an average of 11.6 trains in Jan. 2018, and in the length of time from a trip time of around 30 minutes to 75 minutes.

According to JICA, the precipitous decline in MRT-3 operations after 2014 was primarily caused by the 45 percent reduction in train availability and disruptions in MRT3 trains alone occurred more than 10 times a

week in 2017.

Upon successful rehabilitation, major service interruptions decreased by 94 percent from a high of 81 in 2017 to only 5 incidents in 2021.

Sumitomo is confident of its ability to source spare parts since it was able to secure critical spare parts for the entire MRT-3 system especially for completely knocked down trains, including those from Dalian, China.

The joint venture guarantees its capability to integrate MRT-3 with LRT-1.

As the project proponent, it will assume the full operation and management risks.

It is also uniquely positioned to implement different levels of integration, being majority shareholders of Light Rail Manila Corporation, thus avoiding any commercial and contractual conflicts.

—“—

What closing the loop will do is to open up a window of opportunity for the public to enjoy convenient travel via the light rail network in Metro Manila

The unsolicited proposal also has shorter lead time to award, in contrast to a solicited tender process that will take a longer to award because DOTr and consultants will need time to conceptualize, conduct a technical due diligence, and accurately define and cost the scope of works.

The USP, on the other hand, will ensure smooth and timely transition by end of the Build-Lease-Transfer in July 2024.

The unsolicited proposal, if accepted, has commercial advantages.

One, it will avoid further extension of the current contract wherein the maintenance fee is pegged at P166 million per month.

Two, it will eliminate the P1.3 billion annual subsidy to MRT-3 at the earliest possible time.

Three, the Philippine government will immediately receive concession payments.

Four, funding for comprehensive system upgrades and/or replacements throughout the concession period will be avoided.

Finally, there will be public competition among qualified proponents.

Competition and best value for the Philippine government in an unsolicited bid process will be assured by the “Swiss challenge” because of the defined qualification criteria.

A solicited tender, on the other hand, may not be able to eliminate bidders without the proper technical and financial competency.

In the end, what closing the loop will do is to open up a window of opportunity for the public to enjoy convenient travel via the light rail network in Metro Manila. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

Iraq counts cost of stray bullets fired in anger or joy

BAGHDAD

– At weddings, football matches and other special events, some Iraqi men like to fire salvos of celebratory gunfire into the sky, worrying little about where the bullets might fall.

For some Iraqis, the tradition has been devastating, as have random bullets from sporadic gun battles in a society still awash with weapons after decades of war and turmoil.

Baghdad mother Randa Ahmad was busy with chores when a loud bang startled her.

Alarmed, she hurried to the living room to find her four-year-old son Mohamed bleeding on the floor.

“A stray bullet hit him in the head,” the 30-year-old said weeks later, her child sitting timidly by her side in their suburban house.

The bullet “came out of nowhere,” said Ahmad, who doesn’t know who fired it or why.

Her child now suffers from severe headaches and tires easily, but doctors say surgery to remove the bullet is too risky.

“If the bullet moves,” Ahmad said, “it could cause paralysis.”

Celebratory gunfire and gun battles sometimes sparked by minor feuds are a daily occurrence in Iraq, where firearms possession remains widespread despite a period of relative calm.

Iraq, a country of 43 million, endured wars under former dictator Saddam Hussein, the 2003 US-led invasion, and the sectarian conflict and jihadist insurgencies that followed.

During the years of bloody turmoil, all types of weapons flooded into the country and have often been used in tribal disputes and political score-settling.

Many households claim to own firearms for protection.

As of 2017, some 7.6 million arms --

handguns, rifles and shotguns -– were held by civilians in Iraq, says monitoring group the Small Arms Survey, which believes the number has since risen.

‘Bullet fell from the sky’ Saad Abbas was in his garden in Baghdad when he was jolted by a sharp, searing pain in his shoulder.

“At first, I thought someone had hit me with a stone,” the 59-year-old said. Then he realized a “bullet fell from the sky” and hit him.

Months later, he remains mostly bedridden, the projectile still lodged in his shoulder after doctors advised against surgery because of a pre-existing medical condition.

“I can’t raise my hand,” he said. “It hurts. I can’t even remove my bed cover.”

Celebratory gunfire and gun battles sometimes sparked by minor feuds are a daily occurrence in Iraq

Abbas voiced fury at those who fire off celebratory rounds when “a football team wins, during a wedding or an engagement party.”

“Where do the bullets go?” he asked.

“They fall on people!”

He decried the rampant gun ownership and said that “weapons should be exclusively in the hands of the state.”

Iraqi law punishes illegal firearms possession with up to one year in prison, but authorities announced plans last year to tighten

Crackdown on POGOs

THE national government appears dead-set on going after illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in various areas of the country and shutting them down once found to have violated our laws.

According to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) the state gaming regulator, between 250 and 300 POGOs are operating in the Philippines without a license, six times more than the 46 legitimate operators.

Together with the police, PAGCOR wants to identify these illegal operators, conduct raids, and shut them down.

The online gaming industry emerged in 2016 and grew exponentially as operators capitalized on the country’s liberal gaming laws to target customers in China, where gambling is banned.

At their peak, POGOs totaled 300 and employed more than 300,000 Chinese workers. But the pandemic and tighter tax rules forced many to

relocate or go underground.

The ongoing crackdown has been triggered by reports of POGO-related crimes like human trafficking, torture, kidnapping and fraudulent activities like credit card, crypto investment, and so-called ‘love scams’ where criminals adopt fake online identities to persuade victims to give them money.

The clamor for President Marcos Jr. to ban all POGOs for posing a threat to national security and being the breeding ground of various crimes has been gaining ground

In the most recent raid on a POGO in Porac, Pampanga by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), they discovered Lucky South 99 has been operating in a 5.8-hectare compound within the vast Royal Garden Estate without any valid permit from PAGCOR. There, they found several Chinese military uniforms and medals in sev-

IN A scandal that defies belief and shakes the foundation of trust in American leadership, the Pentagon engaged in a clandestine campaign to undermine the credibility of life-saving vaccines during one of the deadliest pandemics in recent history.

The extent of this operation, as unearthed by Reuters, exposes a disturbing willingness to sacrifice global health on the altar of geopolitical rivalry.

The Pentagon’s secret anti-vax campaign, designed to discredit China’s Sinovac vaccine, is not only a betrayal of ethical standards but also a grave violation of international trust.

By exploiting social media to spread misinformation about the safety and efficacy of Chinese vaccines, the US military has shown a reckless disregard for human life and international law.

This operation ran counter to the very principles of public health and diplomacy, sowing fear and confusion among vulnerable populations desperate for any form of protection against COVID-19.

Legal and ethical abyss

The Pentagon’s actions trample upon several ethical and legal norms.

The Geneva Conventions and numerous international human rights treaties emphasize the protection of civilian populations during crises, including health emergencies.

Propaganda that undermines public health efforts, especially during a pandemic, violates these principles.

Furthermore, the US military is prohibited by law from using propaganda against American citizens; while the Pentagon’s operation targeted foreign populations, the global nature of social media means misinformation inevitably reaches American audiences, blurring these legal boundaries.

Human cost

The consequences of the Pentagon’s disinformation campaign are stark and tragic.

In the Philippines, where the campaign was heavily targeted, vaccine hesitancy soared. President Rodrigo Duterte’s desperate threats to jail unvaccinated citizens

each family to possess just one light

on for “protection”, said interior ministry spokesman Miqdad Miri. The government also recently started offering civilians up to $4,000 to buy their weapons. But Miri acknowledged that in tribal and rural areas, many people “consider weapons a part of their identity”.

In recent years, their collections have been swelled by the “huge quantities” of firearms left behind by the Iraqi army during the US-led invasion, he said.

During the tumultuous years since, weak border controls and the emergence of jihad-

eral of the 46 buildings in the compound.

They also found several rooms with bloodstains. The rooms were believed to be torture chambers where POGO workers were beaten up for not complying with management directives and for failing to reach their quotas.

One of the buildings forcibly opened by police officers showed a large KTV bar with VIP rooms and rooms with beds. Authorities believed the building was used for the sex trafficking of foreign and Filipino women.

Following recent raids on POGOs in Bamban, Tarlac and Porac, Pampanga, the clamor for President Marcos Jr. to ban all POGOs for posing a threat to national security and being the breeding ground of various crimes has been gaining ground.

Senate President Francis Escudero, who has supported calls for total phaseout of illegal POGOs, has urged the Department of National Defense to discuss with PAGCOR the concerns they had raised regarding the presence of POGOs near military camps.

For his part, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., a total ban on illegal POGOs is necessary on national security grounds because, he said, these “weaken our political, economic, social, and peace and order fabric.” Will Malacañang heed the clamor? We’ll know soon enough.

The Pentagon’s dangerous game with vaccine misinformation

underscored the severity of the crisis.

At a time when every vaccination was a step toward saving lives, the US military’s actions likely contributed to thousands of unnecessary deaths.

The Philippines suffered one of the highest death rates in Southeast Asia, a tragedy exacerbated by undermined public trust in vaccines.

History of missteps

This is not an isolated incident.

The US has a troubling history of using health misinformation for covert operations, as seen in Pakistan with the CIA’s fake hepatitis vaccination program used to hunt Osama bin Laden.

The Pentagon’s secret anti-vax campaign is a dark chapter in US history, revealing the dangerous intersection of military strategy and public health misinformation

The backlash against this ruse severely damaged polio vaccination efforts, leading to a resurgence of the disease and attacks on healthcare workers.

Such operations show a pattern of disregard for the collateral damage inflicted on civilian populations.

Geopolitical shortsightedness

The Pentagon’s campaign against Chinese vaccines was part of a broader strategy to counter Beijing’s growing influence. However, this approach backfired spectacularly.

By prioritizing short-term geopolitical gains over global health, the US has damaged its own credibility and moral standing. This operation has likely driven other nations closer to China, seeing the US as

ists allowed arms trafficking to thrive.

‘Attached to their weapons’

“Our main problem is not small arms but medium and large weapons,” Miri said, referring to military-issue assault rifles and other powerful guns.

Security expert Ahmed el-Sharifi also said that “civilians are attached to their weapons” but that even harder to control are the arsenals of “armed political groups and tribes... This is the most dangerous.”

Despite the state’s efforts to control the gun scourge, the problem frequently makes headlines.

Earlier this year, a video went viral showing armed clashes between relatives in a busy market in eastern Baghdad that left one person dead.

an unreliable and manipulative partner. Recommendations for accountability/ reform To rebuild trust and ensure such a travesty never occurs again, several steps must be taken:

1. Full Accountability: The Pentagon must conduct a transparent investigation into the operation, with those responsible held accountable. This includes senior officials who authorized and oversaw the campaign.

2. Legal Reforms: Strengthen international laws against the use of healthrelated misinformation in state-sponsored propaganda. Clear penalties should be established for violations.

3. Diplomatic Rebuilding: The US must engage in sincere diplomatic efforts to repair relationships with affected countries. This includes providing additional support for vaccination campaigns and public health initiatives without political strings attached.

4. Ethical Oversight: Establish an independent body to oversee the ethical implications of military operations involving information warfare, ensuring they comply with both national and international standards.

5. Public Apology: A formal apology to the people of the Philippines and other affected nations is essential to begin mending the trust that has been broken.

Conclusion

The Pentagon’s secret anti-vax campaign is a dark chapter in US history, revealing the dangerous intersection of military strategy and public health misinformation.

As we reflect on this debacle, the need for stringent ethical guidelines and robust international laws becomes ever more apparent. The lives lost and trust broken in this reckless endeavor must serve as a powerful reminder of the cost of placing geopolitical ambitions above human welfare.

The United States must learn from this and commit to a future where integrity and humanity guide its actions on the global stage.

In March, a senior intelligence officer was shot dead when he tried to resolve a tribal dispute. And in April, celebratory gunfire at a wedding took the life of the groom in the northern city of Mosul. Last year, another man, Ahmed Hussein, 30, said he was hit in the leg, presumably also by a bullet fired at a wedding. He said he had just gone for a nap when he was startled by gunfire and then felt a sharp pain. “I fell out of bed and looked at my

bystanders.” AFP

CIRCULAR

No.: 2024-008 Date: May 29, 2024

TO : All Heads of the National Government Agencies, including State Universities and Colleges; Heads of Government Corporations; Heads of Local Government Units; Heads of Finance/Comptrollership/Financial Management Services; Chief Accountants/Heads of Accounting Units; Heads of Budget and Treasury Offices, Treasurers and Cashiers; Commission on Audit (COA) Assistant Commissioners, Directors, Auditors; and All Others Concerned

SUBJECT : Guidelines on the Audit of Financial Transactions Caused and Effected by Suspended or Dismissed Public Officials or Employees, and Officials and Employees Whose Appointments were Terminated by the Appointing Authority or Whose Term of Office has Already Lapsed, and the Corresponding Duties of the Officials of the Agency Concerned

1.0 RATIONALE

1.1 Section 2 of Presidential Decree (PD) No. 1445 states that “it is the declared policy of the State that all resources of the government shall be managed, expended or utilized in accordance with law and regulations, and safeguard against loss or wastage through illegal or improper disposition, with a view to ensuring efficiency, economy and effectiveness in the operations of government. The responsibility to take care that such policy is faithfully adhered to rests directly with the chief or head of the government agency concerned.”

1.2 Section 4(5) of PD No. 1445 likewise provides that “disbursements or disposition of government funds or property shall invariably bear the approval of the proper officials.”

1.3 There are instances where the suspended or dismissed public officials or those whose appointments had been terminated by the appointing authority or whose term of office had already lapsed, continue to perform the functions of their office by: processing and approving financial transactions; signing the contracts, purchase orders, DVs, payrolls, checks, authority to debit advice, debit and credit memorandum; and causing the payment of obligations out of government funds during the effectivity of their suspension or when they have been dismissed from the service, their appointment had been terminated, or their term of office had already lapsed.

1.4 These acts may constitute usurpation of authority or official functions under Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code, as amended, and may be considered as irregular expenditure of public funds for failure to adhere to the provisions of PD No. 1445 and pertinent COA rules and regulations.

1.5 Republic Act (RA) No. 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991 provides for the rules of succession arising from. permanent and temporary vacancies for elective officials.

1.6 Executive Order (EO) No. 292 or the Revised Administrative Code of 1987 similarly provides for the rules and effects of permanent and temporary vacancies for national government agencies and other entities covered by EO No. 292.

1.7 RA No. 6770 or the Ombudsman Act of 1989 likewise grants the Ombudsman the power to suspend and dismiss public officers and employees for cause.

1.8 Pursuant to the rule making power of this Commission under Section 6, Article IX-A in relation to Section 2(2), Article IX-D of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the Commission hereby adopts the guidelines on the audit of financial transactions caused and effected by suspended or dismissed public officials and employees or those whose appointments were terminated by the appointing authority or whose term of office had already lapsed, and the corresponding duties of the officials of the agency concerned.

2.0 COVERAGE

This Circular shall cover all financial transactions caused and effected by public officials or employees during the effectivity of their suspension, or upon dismissal from the service, termination of their appointments, or expiration of their term of office. For purposes of this Circular, the phrase subject public official/s and/ or employee/s shall mean officials and employees of audited agencies who were the subject of Notice/Order of Suspension or Dismissal, those whose appointment had been terminated by the Appointing Authority, or whose terms of office had already lapsed pursuant to applicable laws, rules and regulations.

3.0 GENERAL GUIDELINES

3.1 Rules and procedures on filling up the vacancies and designation of an officer to perform the functions of the office of the subject public official/s and/or employee/s. Vacancies as a result of dismissal, suspension, termination of appointments, or expiration of term of office of an official or employee in the national and local government shall be governed by the Revised Administrative Code of 1987 and the Local Government Code of 1991, respectively.

3.2

Putin in Hanoi after inking North Korea defense pact

of

HANOI – Russian President Vladimir Putin begins a state visit to Vietnam on Thursday, a day after signing a mutual defense pact with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, who offered his “full support” on Ukraine.

Putin and Kim inked a strategic treaty at a summit in Pyongyang that included a pledge to come to each other’s aid if attacked.

Washington and its allies accuse North Korea of supplying ammunition and missiles to Russia for its war in Ukraine, and the deal fueled fears of more deliveries.

The US State Department said deepening Russia-North Korea ties were “of great concern” while a top Ukrainian

nial

official accused Pyongyang of abetting Moscow’s “mass murder of Ukrainians.”

Making his first visit to the isolated North in 24 years on Wednesday, Putin said he did not rule out “military-technical cooperation” with Pyongyang, which like Moscow is under heavy international sanctions.

“Today, we are fighting together against the hegemonism and neo-colo-

by the subject official/s and/or employee/s, with the knowledge of the

3.5 Audit on payment of regular and recurring transactions. Payments of regular and recurring transactions, such as, but not limited to payroll and utilities expenses, may be considered valid and allowable in audit without prejudice to administrative

of the subject official/s and/or employee/s who approved the transaction without authority.

4.0 SPECIFIC GUIDELINES

4.1 Duties of the Agency Concerned

a The Agency Head shall immediately inform and furnish the Chiefs of its Offices including the Accounting/Finance, Budget and Treasury Department/Unit, of a copy of the Notice/ Decision/Resolution of Suspension/Dismissal/Termination/ Lapse of Term of Office of any of its personnel. Within three (3) working days from receipt thereof, the Agency Head shall also furnish the COA Audit Team a certified true copy of such Notice, Decision, or Resolution; and upon the end of the suspension period, a Certification of Service of Suspension. In case the subject public official is the agency head, it is the duty of the next-in-rank official to comply with the above submission.

b. The Chief of the Accounting/Finance Department/Unit shall cause the immediate submission of the subject financial documents to the Audit Team concerned.

4.2 Duties of the Audit Team Concerned

The auditor concerned shall prioritize the audit of financial transactions of the subject official/s and/or employee/s by performing the following:

a. Upon receipt of the Notice/Decision/Resolution, validate the status and date of effectivity of the suspension, dismissal, termination of appointment, or expiration of term of office, as the case may be.

b. Upon validation of the effectivity of the suspension, dismissal, termination of appointment, or expiration of term of office:

1. Verify whether the subject public officialls and/or employee/s has caused and effected any disbursement or payment out of public funds or caused the charging of any government account during and/or upon the effectivity of the suspension, dismissal, termination, or expiration of term of office.

2. Conduct post-audit by examining all supporting documents related to the subject transactions to identify other officials and employees who, with knowledge of the suspension, dismissal, termination of appointment, or expiration of the term of office of the subject public official/s and/or employee/s, have participated with them in the approval and implementation of the transactions, including but not limited to the following:

a. Signatories in the Contracts

b. Other Signatories in the DV

i. Head of Budget Office/Treasury or his or her Authorized Representative - For the certification on the availability of allotment, or funds for the purpose.

ii. Head of Accounting Unit or his or her Authorized Representative - For the certification on the cash availability, the completeness of supporting documents, and· the amount claimed is proper.

iii. Claimant or his or her Authorized RepresentativeFor the receipt of check or cash payments.

c. Signatories in the check

d Signatories in the other supporting documents

3. After the conduct of verification and examination:

a. Except for valid and recurring transactions, such as, but not limited to payments for payroll and utilities expenses, disallow in audit the irregular transaction, as may be warranted, making all the certifying and/or approving officials, who participated in the transaction by signing the contracts, purchase orders, DV s, payrolls, checks, authority to debit advice, debit and credit memorandum, despite their knowledge of the irregularities brought about by the unauthorized act of the suspended, dismissed or terminated officials and/or employees, or those whose term of office had already expired, jointly and severally liable therefor~ and

b. Immediately refer the matter, with the assistance of the Legal and Adjudication Division of the Region/ Cluster, to the Office of the Ombudsman for the filing of appropriate charges.

5.0 SEPARABILITY CLAUSE

In the event that any of the provisions of this Circular is declared invalid or unconstitutional, all the provisions not affected thereby shall remain valid and subsisting.

6.0 SAVING CLAUSE

Any other matter not covered by this Circular shall be referred to this Commission for proper disposition.

7.0 EFFECTIVITY

and

Russia pounds Ukraine power sites in ‘mass’ hit

KYIV, Ukraine – A Russian barrage damaged a Ukrainian power plant and several energy facilities overnight, officials said on Thursday, the latest in a series of strikes that have pushed its grid to the brink.

The targeted missile and drone attacks over recent months have crippled Ukrainian electricity generation capacity and forced Kyiv to impose blackouts and import supplies from EU states.

“The enemy attacked a number of energy infrastructure facilities,” the energy ministry said, adding that the Russian projectiles targeted energy sites in four regions, including near Kyiv.

AFP journalists in the capital heard air raid sirens ringing out over Kyiv in the early hours of Thursday.

DTEK, Ukraine’s largest private energy company, said the aerial attacks had caused “serious damage” at one of its plants, without disclosing its location.

“This is already the seventh mass attack on the company’s thermal power plant in the last three months,” the company said.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that those barrages have halved generation capacity in the war-battered country compared to one year ago and urged allies to send more air defense systems to protect vital infrastructure.

DTEK’s CEO Maxim Timchenko echoed those calls, and said the power plant struck early on Thursday had already been damaged in a previous attack.

“We urgently need to close our skies or Ukraine faces a serious crisis this winter. My plea to allies is to help us defend our energy system and rebuild in time,” he said. AFP

IN BRIEF

the nearby island nation of Cyprus if it opened its airports or bases to Israel “to target Lebanon.”

The Mediterranean island is home to two British military bases including an airbase, but they are in sovereign British territory and not controlled by the Cypriot government.

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides denied his country’s involvement in the war and said it was “part of the solution,” pointing to its role in a maritime humanitarian corridor to Gaza “recognized by the entire international community.” AFP

This Circular shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation.

OTTAWA – Ottawa on Wednesday (Thursday Manila time) listed Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist entity while calling on Canadians in the Islamic country to leave.

“Our government has made the decision to list the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code,” Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc told a news conference. Flanked by Canada’s foreign and justice ministers, he accused the Iranian regime of “support for terrorism” and “having consistently displayed disregard for human rights both inside and outside of Iran, as well as a willingness to destabilize the international rules-based order.”

Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, noting that Ottawa broke off diplomatic ties with Tehran in 2012, urged Canadians against travel to Iran.

“For those who are in Iran right now. It’s time to come back home,” she said.

The terrorism listing bars members of the Guards from entering Canada and Canadians from having any dealings with individual members or the group. Any assets the Guards or its members hold in Canada may also be seized. AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

BAMBOO DIPLOMACY. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin (2nd left) and Vietnam’s President To Lam (left) inspect a guard of honor during a welcome ceremony Thursday at the Presidential Palace in Hanoi. Vietnam and Russia have close ties going back to the 1950s, but Hanoi is not likely to give Putin the public pledge of ‘full support’ on Ukraine that he received from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. AFP

RETALIATORY ATTACKS. Recruits of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade take part in military training Tuesday at one of the training bases in Kyiv before the Russian defense ministry said it downed 15 Ukrainian drones that also targeted oil storage depots in the southern Adygea republic and in the Tambov region. AFP

Serdeña leads Fil-Am Junior golf

BAGUIO—David Charles Serdeña came through with birdies in two of the last three holes to finish with an opening one-over-par 69 or equivalent to 53 Molave points to lead the way in the Fil-A division of the Fil-Am Invitational Junior Championship at the Camp John Hay Golf Club.

After going three over in the initial six holes including a double bogey on the 5th, Serdeña found his stride and made consecutive birdies on Nos. 7 and 8, added two on 10 and 12, then delivered on another pair on 16 and 17 that gave him a three-point lead on Baguiobased Korean An Seongmin.

Zhan Pocholo Medina occupies solo third with 50 followed by Francis Slavin 47, Mark Velasco 45, Seth Koa 44 and Juan Antonio Escaño 42 in the second edition of the tournament for junior golfers that is co organized by Baguio Country Club (BCC) and CJHGC.

In Fil-B, Jeon Gunwoo turned in a 50, six up on rising jungolfer Felix Saludar. Aenzo Sulaik remains in contention after a 42. Miguel Orbita, a CJHGC dependent, made 44 and raced to a big lead in Fil-C as Ezekiel Opinion and Park Hoonmin managed just 31 and 26, respectively.

Over at BCC, it’s a close fight for the Am-B title . Zyrah de Leon (32) holds a slim advantage versus Cho Seungbin (31) and Monica Angheng (28).

John Rey drubs twin brother; Sinfuego shines at JPGT Iloilo

ILOILO—John Rey Oro brushed off an early threat from twin brother John Paul with a scorching backside start, turning a narrow lead into a commanding six-stroke victory with an even-par 70 in the premier category of the ICTSI JPGT Iloilo Visayas Series here yesterday (Thursday).

Rhiena Mae Sinfuego matched John Rey’s wire-to-wire triumph with an even more emphatic win in the girls’ 16-18 division of the first of three tournaments in the region organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. She carded an 88, amassing a four-day total of 356 at the Iloilo Golf Club.

John Rey, 17, turned up the heat on the back nine of the challenging layout, transforming a two-stroke edge into a five-shot advantage with back-to-back birdies from No. 10. In contrast, John Paul faltered with a bogey on the 11th and John Rey’s consistency shone through as he sustained his momentum, adding

Scam, sham, shame

LATELY, there has been several complaints aired after the conduct of at least two football events in Boracay and in Davao. These football tournaments left so many unanswered questions such as why rules suddenly changed and worse, why it wasn’t explained properly to affected teams. The other big issue is how can you play in a tournament on an artificial pitch literally “patched” on the sands of Boracay?

Several days ago, a Manila -based team bought their tickets for a game in Cebu through a travel agency they found online, gave them dummy tickets. Aside from losing money, the team had to go through so many inconveniences just to make it to the away game. They actually missed the pre-game presser because the team arrived late.

These unfortunate events, however, pale in comparison to what goalkeeper Mark James Jones and several teammates had to go through, while playing for Manila Montet FC in the ongoing tournament of the Philippines Football League. Jones, who appeared in our sports program Larong Pilipino sa DZME Radyo Uno, literally cried his heart out over his disappointments and frustrations with his team.

Among the many issues that Jones emphasized was the paltry sum promised to them as daily allowance which was P200. Really? How can this be? Jones revealed, too, that there were no contracts signed before the team and players and they just relied on the what team officials and the owner said to them. Jones revealed, too, that if you can’t train or attend the games even due to injuries suffered in the previous games, the allowance will be forfeited. But this is just one of the things that they have to endure just to earn the “privilege” for playing in the country’s lone domestic league

“Maliit lang ang hinihingi namin kasi ibinibigay naman namin lahat ng makakaya namin kada laro. Pero bakit nila ipagdadamot pa sa amin ‘yun?” Jones asked.

There are several patterns in the cases mentioned above. Like how some people take advantage of goodnatured individuals. They see these as opportunities to scam people who’s only fault is that they trust so easily and probably thought that no one will do them harm, in person or on online.

These should serve as red flags for players wanting to play for teams and teams wanting to play in future

a chip-in birdie on the difficult par3 13th, which John Paul bogeyed from five feet.

This solid performance set the stage for John Rey’s unassailable claim to the boys’ 16-18 trophy with a 72-hole total of 296.

“After I birdied Nos. 10 and 11, I gained momentum and everything just flowed from there. I also thanked God for giving me this opportunity,” said John Rey, celebrating his sixth victory and eagerly anticipating the upcoming legs of the JPGT Visayas swing in Bacolod, their home turf.

John Paul actually threatened within one with a birdie on the sev-

“football” tournaments. Please read the fine print first before signing anything. Check if the persons or company you are dealing with are inded legit and please have a contract first before committing on anything. Do not fall prey on such words as “we are prioritizing local football players”, “football is for Filipinos”, “you should be happy because we gave you the opportunity to play for us” and “pinaglaro ka na nga, gusto mo pa allowance” crap and bullshits.

The worst part for The Designated Kit Man, however, is the fact that these vultures prey on the football dreams of the players—not to mention the little kids and their supportive parents—and hang them out to dry in a single heartbeat.

My apologies to all vultures, the ones with majestic wings, but had been given the worst rep for the longest time, for comparing them to the low lifers that suck the positive vibes of the many who just want to play the beautiful game.

On a more positive note, Jeo Santisima is all set up for his bid for the WBC Asia Continental Super Featherweight belt against titleholder Arnon Yupang tomorrow at the Masbate Lagoon in Mataum in Cataingan. Santisima said he has been preparing for the fight for the last three months and he has a battle plan set against the Thai champion.

“May sorpresa po ako sa kaniya,” the unassuming Santisima said when chatting up with The Designated Kit Man yesterday after an early morning running workout around Cataingan Elementary School.

Santisima said he intends to make best of opportunity given to him by Governor Antonio Kho, who organized the Bakbakan sa Masbate 2 fightcard. Santisima’s tussle against Yupang is the headliner of the boxing event. His brother, Alex, will also go up in the ring as part of the stacked card.

“Sobrang importante sa akin ito kasi taga rito ako at lalaban ako sa harap ng mga Masbateño. Inaalay ko ito sa mga mahal ko sa buhay at sa lahat ng Masbateño. Para sa kanila ang laban na ito,” he said.

The 28-year-old native of Aroroy, which is just three hours away from Caitangan, is hoping that a win against Yupang will open bigger opportunities for him.

“Sana po makasama tayo sa ranking dahil pangarap ko talaga maging world champion. Pero malayo pa ‘yun,” he said.

He is also hoping to marry his girlfriend, Reina, next year. A win against Yupang, however, is a step towards the right direction for Santisima’s career and personal life. Stay safe. Stay happy peeps!

For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

TNT, Phoenix, Stalwarts win U-11 opener

TALK ‘N Text, Phoenix and PBA Stalwarts ran away with convincing victories against separate counterparts to kick of the 2024 Batang PBA 11-Under tournament on Wednesday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

Theon Cruz and Thiago Cruz scored 12 and 11 points, respectively, as the Tropang Giga clobbered the Terrafirma Dyip, 77-59, in Group B.

Maverick Romey added eight, Liam Jardin had seven while Liam Ramos and Liam Yang chipped in six points each for TNT, which flipped an early 7-17 deficit behind a massive second-half avalanche.

In the other Group B action, Cameron Richard Wilson fired 19 points as Phoenix took down San Miguel, 69-37. Jon Rafael Sannti Villarosa and Jaeden Laygo contributed 10 points apiece while Kendrick Henoguin and Prince Torio added nine points each for Phoenix, which opened an early 18-3 lead en route to the big win. Over in Group A, PBA Stalwarts walloped Meralco, 74-56.

enth but conceded the stroke on the next hole after missing green. He also failed to match John Rey’s solid backside start although he closed out with two birdies in the last three holes to save a 74 and a 302, completing the Oros’ domination of the centerpiece division of the fourcategory series. Eddie Gonzales, Jr. placed third at 318 after an 84.

Sinfuego earlier showcased her dominance over Necky Tortosa, who struggled with a 107, finishing at 423. Blessy Solinap recorded a 114, concluding her campaign in the ICTSIsponsored series with a 470.

“Despite my lead, I still felt the pressure to deliver because there were so many people watching. I just imagined that it was only me and my caddie out there, which helped me manage the pressure,” said Sinfuego, who has also committed to competing in the Bacolod series.

Tortosa, a one-armed campaigner from Santa Barbara like Sinfuego, actually showed a lot of promise and potential despite her condition with a 102, trailing Sinfuego by just six after the first 18 holes. But while Sinfuego recovered from a 96 with an impressive 85 in the second day, Tortosa wavered with a 111, enabling the 18-year-old BS Criminology student Phinma Univ. of Iloilo student to pull away from the pack.

Ivan Ace De Leon erupted for 21 points to show the way for the Stalwarts. Ares Loki Cruz contributed 10 while Brandon Latrell Estabillo and Chelios Makin Sanchez had nine each. In the lone 9-under match, Barangay Ginebra trounced Blackwater, 46-24 behind Curtis Tizon’s 10 points. Meanwhile in the 7-under halfcourt exhibition match, Magnolia beat Ginebra, 7-4, behind Tiago Baracael’s four points. The tournament took the wraps off with a simple opening ceremony attended by PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial Meralco’s Chris Newsome, the MVP of the just concluded Philippine Cup Finals won by the Bolts, teammate Raymund Almazan and TNT’s Glenn Khobuntin.

After the ceremony, Newsome granted requests for photos ops and signed game balls and jerseys.

John Rey Oro is doused with water by his peers after his victory in the ICTSI JPGT Iloilo Visayas Series. Manny Marcelo

David Charles Serdeña

FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Yulo vows to give it his all in Paris

By Peter Atencio

FILIPINO gymnast Carlos Yulo

vower give it his best when he seeks a podium finish in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Yulo said he is polishing his moves and will be more prepared this time around.

“Pino-polish ko po iyung mga galaw para maabot iyung mga difficulties,” said the 24-year-old Yulo, who is continuously preparing at the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines training center in Intramuros, Manila.

He is set to leave for the Metz’ Training Camp on June 29 and won’t be part of the first batch of delegating that will be leaving for France this week.

Yulo spoke at the sendoff that was given him by his sponsors, sports betting company Arena Plus at the Brittany Hotel in Taguig City, along with his girlfriend, Chloe San Jose. Boxer Eumir Marcial was also feted by the sponsors.

His continuous preparation saw him competing at the 2024 Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Asian Championships to finish with four gold medals last month.

Yulo ruled the vault and the parallel bars on the final day at the Gymnastics Sport Palace in Tashkent, Uzbekistan to finish with four golds in the competition.

He earlier won the individual all-around and the floor exercise, each time beating Kazakhstan’s Milad Karimi to the top of the podium.

In the vault, Yulo scored 14.883 to hold off home bet Abdulaziz Mirvaliev, who scored 14.783.

It is in the vault event, however, where Yulo is concentrating on his improvements.

“Hinahatak ko po ang aking mga executions sa vault,” added Yulo.

Team PH’s Sinag barong earns praise

THE official parade wear that will be worn by Filipino athletes and officials during the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Paris Olympics looks stunning as it truly represents the Philippine colors.

This was the opinion of Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion after she saw and wore the outfit provided by the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).

“The design has the look of a badminton shuttlecock. But it’s beautiful,” said Carrion of the “Sinag Barong” designed by renowned Francis Libiran, during the sendoff for two Paris-bound Filipino athletes, gymnast Carlos Yulo and boxer Eumir Marcial.

The sendoff was done by their sponsor Arena Plus, a sports betting organization, at the Brittany Hotel at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City.

The outfits will be worn by the official members of the national delegation, with boxers Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam leading the way as the country’s flag bearers during the opening ceremony of the quadrennial meet.

The “Sinag barong,” according to Libiran, shows stunning details of Philippine culture. The design features embroidered sun rays and Pintados-inspired warrior patterns on its collar. Peter Atencio

Gilas starts training camp for FIBA Qualifying tourney

By Randy Caluag

WITH Justin Brownlee back in town, Gilas Pilipinas will commence a brief training camp on Friday at the Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna in preparation for the 2024 FIBA Men’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments set in July in Latvia.

The team will then leave on June 25 to take on Turkey on June 27 and Poland on June 30 in a pair of tune-up games before the start of the tourney set July 2 to 7. The Philippines is bracketed with

the host country and Georgia in Group A. Gilas faces Latvia on July 3 and battles Georgia on July 4.

In Group B are Cameroon, Brazil and Montenegro, who will all square off in Group B.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the crossover semifinals for a chance to get one of the four remaining slots in the Paris 2024 Olympics Brownlee is coming off a short

stint with the Pelita Jaya team in the Basketball Champions League Asia.

The Ginebra resident import and naturalized Filipino Brownlee will be joined in the 12-man Gilas lineup by Kai Sotto, Junemar Fajardo, Carl Tamayo, Kevin Quiambao, Dwight Ramos, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, Chris Newsome and Scottie Thompson.

The bad news is that big men AJ Edu and Jaimee Malonzo will be missed due to injuries.

Iran scores 2nd straight upset VNL victory

UNDERDOG Iran scored its second straight upset victory, pushing aside a the higher-ranked Netherlands side, 25-22, 22-25, 25-21, 2025, 15-10, on Thursday in Week 3 of the Men’s 2024 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Team skipper Milad Ebadipour took charge in the final set with five of his 13 attacks points, allowing the Iranians to turn the tables on the Dutch spikers.

This story is powered by PLDT Home, the official local partner of the VNL 2024.

Catch the latest in sports with PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1799 which comes with unlimited Fiber, unlimited entertainment from Cignal, and free mobile calls.

The 15th seed Iranians’ shock win came a day after their spiker Poriya Hossein Khanzadeh Firouzjah and skipper Ebadipour led the team with 23 and 20 points, respectively, as they pulled off a 26-28, 25-23, 25-18, 2628, 15-13 shocker against Team USA on Wednesday night.

“These games have been hard for

us, changing the mentality of the players. They are just fighting before, and now, they are fighting to win,” said

Iran coach Payman Akbari. Amin Emaeilnezhad showed the way for the Iranians with 29 points during

PLDT/Smart chairman MVP rallies support for Paris-bound boxers ahead of Olympics

PLDT Inc (PLDT) and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) Chairman and CEO Manuel V Pangilinan bolsters support for the national boxing team, as the group visited the PLDT headquarters in Makati City a few days before they leave

for their training in Metz, France, ahead of the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

“We have high hopes for our boxers, and we will continue supporting their quest for glory in this year’s Olympics. We wish them all the best

their one-hour and 54-minute clash with the Netherlands.

Their second consecutive triumph saw them move up in the standings with their 2-8 win-loss card.

The Netherlands, behind Nimir Abdelazez with 37 points, slipped down the standings at 3-7.

The Iranians moved away from a 4-all tie after Ebadipour’s attack off Abdelazez pulled through. Esmaeilnezhad’s block and a Dutch error propelled them ahead, 7-4.

Earlier, Stephen Maar made 15 points, including 14 kills as Canada posted back-to-back wins, this time stopping Germany, 25-19, 25-18, 25-21.

The Canadians followed up on their stopping of Japan, 25-21, 20-25, 2515, 20-25, 15-10, in last Tuesday’s opener, to move up with a win-loss record of 6-4.

Six-foot-10 Arthur Szwarc tallied 11 attacks for the Canadians, who stayed in contention for a finals berth.

Canada meets Brazil on Friday at 3 p.m., while Germany battles Team USA on Saturday at 11 a.m. Peter Atencio

as they fight for flag and country during the Paris 2024,” said Pangilinan, who also serves as the Chairman Emeritus of the Association of Boxing Alliances of the Philippines (ABAP). The sports patron, together with MVP Sports Foundation (MVPSF) President Alfredo S. Panlilio, PLDT and Smart Head of Sports and MVPSF Executive Director Jude H. Turcuato and other executives feted the athletes led by Tokyo Olympics silver medalists Nesthy Petecio (women’s 57kg) and Carlo Paalam (men’s 57kg), along with first-time Olympians Aira Villegas (women’s 50kg) and Hergie Bacyadan (women’s 75kg). Tokyo bronze medalist Eumir Marcial (men’s 80kg) was training abroad during the event. The coaching staff, led by Head Coach Ronald Chavez (men’s) and Head Coach Reynaldo Galido (women’s), were also present.

“On behalf of MVPSF, I extend my wholehearted support to our boxers competing in Paris 2024 with their remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to excellence, making us all Filipinos so proud,” said MVPSF President Panlilio. They were supported by World Boxing Executive Board member, ABAP Chairman, and PLDT Chief Leadership Transition Officer Ricky Vargas, ABAP President and Antipolo City First District Representative Roberto Puno, ABAP SecretaryGeneral and Executive Director Marcus Manalo, and other ABAP executives.

READY TO GO. Shown here are Olympians Hergie Bacyadan, Aira Villegas, Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam meet with MVPSF President Al Panlilio, ABAP President Robbie Puno, PLDT, Smart, and MVPSF

Manuel V Pangilinan,

Chairman Ricky Vargas, ABAP Treasurer Karina Picson, PLDT and Smart Head of Sports and MVPSF Executive

Jude Turcuato, and ABAP Secretary General and Executive

Marcus Manalo in Makati City.

Gilas Pilipinas will shoot for one of the remaining four slots up for grabs in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Iran’s Amin Esmaeilnezhad soars for a kill.

P2.32 trillion

P1.95 trillion P338 billion Investments approved under green lane RE projects approved under green lane

Digital projects approved under green lane

SUSTAINABLE

SEA. The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines teams up with Save Palawan Seas Foundation for its 2024 corporate social responsibility program on bridging sustainable tourism with environmental welfare and community empowerment. The program took place from June 5 to 7, 2024, in Sitio Calabugtong and Barangays Casian and Batas in Taytay, Palawan.

DTI: Green lane processes P2.3t worth of investments

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the Once-Stop Action Center for Strategic Investments (OSACSI) approved 74 projects with investments of P2.32 trillion under the green lane.

Renewable energy projects dominated the approvals, with combined investments of P1.95 trillion from 64 projects.

Digital infrastructure, with five projects, accounted for P338.22 billion of the total, followed by two manufacturing projects worth P29.6 billion and two food security projects with a combined value of P3.4 billion.

OSACSI is working on the backlog of 59 pending projects with a combined value of P793.28 billion. These include 37 renewable energy projects worth P709.36 billion, two digital infrastructure projects worth P22.57 billion, 19 food security projects worth P9.98 billion and one manufacturing project worth 50.8 billion.

Executive Order 18 (EO 18) established green lanes within local government units (LGUs) to expedite strategic investments. OSACSI works by endorsing certified projects to relevant LGUs for approvals and endorsements.

It said that in June, the OSACSI approved P265.465 billion worth of strategic investments, including a P183.205-billion solar power project in Luzon.

The DTI said of the 74 projects, 32 were registered with the Board of Investments (BOI) worth P1.309 trillion, while the remaining 42 projects worth P1.02 trillion are still up for registration or considered as investment leads.

The approach has been effective in Cavite province, where the provincial endorsement was issued just a week after the green lane meeting.

Indigenous gas development key to attaining PH energy security

By Alena Mae S. Flores

INDIGENOUS gas development should remain an integral part of the Philippine energy policy to attain energy security, a top executive of Prime Energy Resources Development B.V. said. “For LNG to take root as a trusted fuel source, it needs indigenous gas as a stable ground. Indigenous gas development must remain a bedrock of our energy policy,” Prime Energy managing director and general manager Donnabel Kuizon Cruz said.

Cruz made the statement during a panel discussion on “Fostering Growth in the Natural Gas Sector” in a forum organized by the think tank Stratbase Institute Monday.

Cruz said the “synergy” of imported LNG and indigenous gas is important to creating power supply reliability and affordability.

Prime Energy, a wholly-owned sub-

sidiary of Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc., operates the Malampaya Deep Water Gas to Power Project, the country’s first and only indigenous gas resource off the province of Palawan.

Service Contract No. 38 (SC 38), which governs the Malampaya project, was extended for another 15 years until February 2039.

Cruz said indigenous gas guarantees fuel supply as the power grid becomes increasingly vulnerable to weather and other disruptions.

She said that during strong winds and waves, LNG floating storage and other facilities could be disconnected from their berths and pause the supply of gas to power plants, but the Malampaya production facilities are designed to withstand inclement weather.

“During the April heat wave when the Luzon grid was on yellow and red alert, Malampaya operated at close to 120 percent of its current system capacity,” she said.

Braving through a new era: Award-winning agency Stratworks celebrates 25 years of building love for top brands

IT IS now an era where everything is changing and has changed. Most tellingly, audiences have evolved from mere communication consumers into strong creators and communicators in their own right. The old principles of marketing communications may still hold, but with a fresh emphasis on applying them in ways that are different and daring.

This inspires the award-winning integrated marketing communications agency to take a more potent role in this brave new world. On its milestone 25th year, Stratworks launches a new philosophy for bold storytelling in the new era dubbed as “Bravethrough”, which aims to tell brand stories in unexpected ways that will deliver message resonance and brand relevance.

Stratworks celebrated its 25th anniversary recently, growing from its simple beginnings in 1999 into one of the leading and largest fully Filipino agencies in the country with an impressive talent pool and roster of client partners. It also kicked off its 25th year with significant wins, signing three major brands in the first quarter: British-born auto manufacturer MG Philippines, which is also celebrating its 100th year in 2024; leading FMCG multinational Procter & Gamble Philippines; and trusted delivery and courier service Lalamove.

The agency attributes its endurance, excellence, and long-lasting relevance to its unwavering commitment to brand love, innovation, and pure courage to dream bigger and execute beyond its clients’ needs.

“We are grateful that we have gotten this far, working with so many great people to help build some of the best brands in the past 25 years. As we mark this milestone, we are ready to brave through the next era, ready to face the everchanging and fast-paced digital marketing challenges,” said Stratworks President and co-CEO Donna Nievera-Conda.

In the past decade, Stratworks has also forayed into digital marketing with the establishment of ID8, Inc., an affiliate company that specializes in digital services and online publishing with titles such as 8List.ph, Bitesized.ph and Windowseat.ph.

Stratworks’ new chapter also entails undeterred acceptance and commitment to take on the greater challenges and difficulties it will bring. This was neatly summed up by the keynote message from ABS-CBN’s

Head of Creative Communications

Management

Robert Labayen: “Success is a journey of new headaches. Fear and headaches may be signs that you are always breaking new ground.”

SETTING A STANDARD OF COURAGE

Stratworks draws from a quarter-century track record of elevating its agency role into a bigger social responsibility, using its creative influence to generate enhanced consciousness among the public, and fusing its social conscience with clients’ values to build reputations.

This path often involves Stratworks in projects that are brought to life as worthy causes. For instance, the success of the First Filipino Mount Everest Expedition saw Stratworks shouldering the double burden of Marketing Management and Project Sponsorship. The project’s incalculable historic effect in uplifting Filipino pride and identity far outstripped the awards and unprecedented PR achievements credited to Stratworks.

The concept for PLDT’s Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) developed and wielded an untapped asset against the challenges of the pandemic — the drive and spirit of entrepreneurial Filipino mothers who were chomping at the bit to do their part in powering their families through the crisis.

MMPH won the highly sought-after Grand Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of the Philippines in 2023, as well as recognition at the 3rd United Nations Global Compact Network Philippines’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Awards.

“We want to continue doing groundbreaking work in this industry, which we have achieved through creating an ecosystem that supports and values creativity, bravery, and building genuine relationships with our stakeholders. We truly believe that the courage to go beyond what is given and create something much bigger will result in meaningful work,” said Mark Christian Parlade, Stratworks managing director. Parlade adds, “This formula is how we’ve been able to stay relevant and trusted by brands in various industries and fields over the past decades and that is how we’ll still be able to deliver in the next 25 years of

Stratworks celebrated its 25th anniversary recently, growing from its simple beginnings in 1999 into one of the leading and largest

HEALTHCARE SUPPORT. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. huddles with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Healthcare Sector leads in Malacañang. With the president are (from left) Sabin Aboitiz of Aboitiz Group, Paolo Borromeo of Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Fr. Nicanor Austriaco of the University of Santo Tomas, Mario Silos of Intellicare and Dr. Harish Pillai of Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings Inc. This meeting highlighted the council’s commitment to collaborating with the government to enhance the country’s healthcare infrastructure and workforce.

ABS-CBN

sees 2024 as better year amid more shows, movies

By Darwin G. Amojelar

ABS-CBN Corp. said Thursday it expects 2024 to be a stronger year than 2023 amid the growing popularity of its television programs and movies.

“We remain confident that 2024 will be an even better year than last year,” ABS-CBN president and chief executive Carlo Katigbak said during the company’s virtual annual stockholders’ meeting.

“Our financial performance is on an upward trajectory. We have laid the foundations for a company that is now asset light and content focused. Today our program and movies have regained their prominence with their audience,” he said.

Katigbak said the company expects to finally be cash flow positive by end-2024.

ABS-CBN posted a net loss of P994 million in the first quarter of 2024, down by 18 percent from the P1.2-billion loss in the same period last year.

Consolidated revenues went down by 4 percent to P4.08 billon in the first quarter from P4.26 billion in the same period last year. Its operating costs and expenses amounted to P5.3 billion, a reduction of 2 percent yearon-year.

ABS-CBN posted a net loss of P12.8 billion in 2023.

Meanwhile, ABS-CBN said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) that it was working on plans to improve Sky’s viability and continuously exploring opportunities to better serve its subscribers, employees and stakeholders.

PH stocks slumped for seventh day

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks slipped for seventh straight trading day on lack of fresh leads and continued depreciation of the peso against the dollar.

The peso closed at 58.78 against the greenback Thursday, down from 58.76 Wednesday.

The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index closed at 6,344.56 Thursday, down 21.47 points, or 0.34 percent, from the previous trading day, while the wider all-shares index rose 1.85, or 0.05 percent, to settle at 3,440.31.

“Investors are seeking clear direction on interest rates amid mixed signals, making them wait for the next policy meeting despite expectations that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas won’t cut rates,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the market continued to drop as the US dollar/peso exchange rate remain at high levels, while global crude prices rose on increased tension between the Philippines and China.

Foreign investors remained net sellers, recording a net outflow of P552.2 million. Value turnover was thin at P3.86 billion. Four of the six sectoral indices ended in the negative territory. Financials dropped 0.69 percent, while services, property and industrial went down by 0.68 percent, 0.49 percent and 0.31 percent, respectively.

3 Japan conglomerates asked to expand in PH

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) asked Japanese conglomerates Mitsubishi Corp., Sumitomo Corp. and Murata Manufacturing to expand their investments in the Philippines.

“The Philippines is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy and green metals. Our rich reserves of nickel, copper, and cobalt present immense opportunities for investment in these sectors,” DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual said as he pitched for stronger partnerships in agricultural technologies and modernized logistics infrastructure, including vital cold chain investments.

Mitsubishi reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing Metro Manila Subway Project and reported exceeding planned progress. Pre-final design is underway with regular stakeholder

meetings.

Trade commercial attache to Tokyo Ditas Angara-Mathay noted Mitsubishi’s keen interest in new Philippine infrastructure projects, particularly those focused on energy and digital transformation.

Leveraging its expertise in these areas aligns with Mitsubishi Group’s Roadmap to a Carbon Neutral Society, which includes a 2-trillion-yen budget for global energy transformation investments.

The company is also eager to explore opportunities in the growing Philippine consumer market.

The DTI also met with representatives from Sumitomo and Murata Manufacturing. Sumitomo, a diversified trading giant, is a key player in Philippine infrastructure, managing the First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) and participating in the Light Rail Transit Lines 1, 2 and the Manila Metro Rail Transit System (MRT) Line 3 projects.

Discussions included the expansion of FPIP to attract high-value manufacturing, research and data centers. Sumitomo is also exploring residential and commercial developments around the park to benefit the local community.

The DTI is enthusiastic about Sumitomo’s potential involvement in the Metro Manila Subway Project and the MRT Line 3 maintenance project, which is seen to improve public transportation through a potential concession for MRT 3 operations.

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) lifted the order of revocation on textile manufacturer Filsyn Corp. after nearly 22 years of suspension.

Filsyn said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Thursday it received the SEC’s decision lifting the order of revocation of the corporation’s registration of securities and permit to sell securities to the public issued on Aug. 26, 2002.

Filsyn said with the lifting of the order of revocation, its next move is to ask the Philippine Stock Exchange to lift the trading suspension of its shares.

“The corporation is grateful for the issuance of the 2024 order by the SEC. The corporation will file the necessary applications or notices with The Philippine Stock Exchange, Inc. if any, to fully implement the 2024 order,” Filsyn said.

The SEC issued the revocation order in 2002 against Filsyn for its repeated inability to furnish the regulators periodic reports required for listed companies under the Securities Regulation Code (SRC). It required the company to amend its registration statement in 2018 as a condition for the reinstatement of its permit to sell its securities to the public and to lift the order of revocation against the corporation.

FORTUNE named three SM companies—SM Investments Corp., BDO Unibank Inc. and China Banking Corp—in its first Southeast Asia 500 list out of a total 38 Philippine companies.

Fortune said in a statement its focus on the region comes as Southeast Asia gains greater significance in the global economy due to shifting supply chains and the rapid development of the region’s economies.

The inaugural rankings included companies from seven Southeast Asian nations: Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia and the Philippines.

The list included SM Investments, BDO and Chinabank which contributed $10.3 billion, $5.8 billion and $1.4 billion to revenues, respectively.

“Having three SM companies included in the inaugural list of Fortune’s Southeast Asia 500 is reflective of how consumers have continued to patronize and support our customer-focused operations. More importantly, the list underscores Southeast Asia’s increasing importance in the global economy, driven by evolving supply chains and robust economic development across nations like the Philippines. It’s about time to shine the spotlight on Philippine companies and the opportunities in terms of investments and growth,” SM Investments president and chief executive Frederic DyBuncio said.

Companies are ranked by total revenues based on their latest available respective fiscal years ended on, or before Dec. 31, 2023.

The ten largest companies on the list reported revenues of $650 billion, accounting for more than a third of the revenue for fiscal year 2023 across all Southeast Asia 500 companies which reported total revenues of $1.8 trillion.

The company filed its amended registration statement with the SEC in September 2023 and supplemented it with an updated amended registration statement in March 2024.

Filsyn was originally organized in 1968 as Filipinas Synthetic Fiber Corp. to promote and support the polyester fiber and yarn requirements of the Philippines’ textile industry.

ning industry.

Jenniffer B. Austria

NEW TICKER. China Banking Corp. independent directors Genaro Lapez and Claire Ann Yap, directors Jose Sio and Joaquin Dee, president and chief executive Romeo Uyan Jr., chairman Hans Sy, Philippine Stock Exchange chairman Jose Pardo, director Vivian Yuchengco, director Eddie Gobing, chief executive Roel Refran, corporate secretary lawyer Aissa Encarnacion and issuer regulation division head Marigel Baniqued-Garcia attend the special bell ringing ceremony to mark the first time that Chinabank will be traded under the stock symbol, CBC, effective June 19, 2024.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual (second from right) and other Cabinet secretaries meet with representatives of Mitsubishi

BUSINESS

Blueleaf Energy investing $1.5b in 1.5-GW floating solar projects

By Alena Mae S. Flores

Blueleaf Energy Philippines, a portfolio company of Macquarie Capital, through its projects with local joint venture partners, is looking at investing $1.5 billion to build 1.5 gigawatts floating solar portfolio in Laguna.

“I think we’re looking at an overall investment for these projects of around $1.5 billion. But like in any other power project, we’re looking into project financing. So, it’s going to be like long-term loans from banks and the equity portion of it’s something that basically we as the investor will be covering,” Blueleaf

Energy Philippines president Chris Chua said.

Chua said the estimated per megawatt cost of floating solar project is around $1 per MW.

“It’s the first large-scale floating solar. So, we’re putting on our collective hats and effort to try to optimize the cost. That’s part of our objec-

tive. We want to demonstrate the best LCOE (levelized cost of electricity) for this technology,” he said.

Blueleaf Energy Philippines and partner NKS Energy Utilities Inc. through project company NKS Solar

One is developing a 250MW floating solar project in Caliraya and Lumot Lakes in Laguna, which is expected to be the first utility-scale floating solar project in the country.

The project is expected to to start construction by the four quarter of 2024 and is targeting to be online by the first quarter of 2026.

It is one of the winning bidders in the Department of Energy’s second round of Green Energy Auction Program in 2023.

Meanwhile, Blueleaf Energy Philippines will co-develop BlueSolar through a joint venture with SunAsia, Blueleaf Energy Philippines. BlueSolar is the project company for the 1.3 gigawatt floating solar facility in Laguna Lake.

The Laguna Lake Development Authority and the partners signed a renewable energy contract area utilization agreement for the 10 blocks of hundred hectares each in Laguna Lake in August 2023.

The project will span the towns of Cabuyao, Sta. Rosa, Calamba, Victoria, and Bay and is expected to begin construction by 2025. Around 7 blocks totaling 910 MW is expected to be completed in 2026.

AirAsia PH plans to increase Cebu international flights

By Darwin G. Amojelar

AIRASIA Philippines announced plans Thursday to boost international flights departing from Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA).

AirAsia Philippines chief executive Ricky Isla said the expansion plans include reopening of other popular international destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Narita, Osaka, Taipei and Seoul.

The airline operates flights to and from MCIA via Manila and other destinations such as Boracay, Davao and Puerto Princesa.

AirAsia Philippines recently took part in the launching of Aboitiz GMR MEGAWIDE Cebu Airport Corp.’s (AGMCAC) “Cebu Connect” initiative.

Cebu Connect aims to position MCIA as a premier transfer hub for connecting flights through the initial minimum connectivity time (MCT) of 60 minutes.

Isla lauded AGMCAC’s initiative, claiming this is a win not only for the Philippines, but also for ASEAN.

“We commend AGMCAC’s initiative for simplifying airport transfers. This delivers a great boost for millions of guests gaining access to a wider network of destinations while making travel to numerous connecting destinations more seamless and convenient,” Isla said.

“Integrating Cebu Connect into AirAsia Philippines’ offerings will elevate the quality of our services and strengthen our position as the undisputed World’s Best Low-Cost Airline”, he said.

Isla said that with Cebu Connect, millions of guests would have access to a wider network of destinations, apart from accessible transfers between AirAsia Philippines flights and those of partner airlines.

BIR allows use of remaining official receipts until consumed

BUREAU of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. ordered the agency to allow the use of the remaining official receipts until they are fully consumed, instead of only until Dec. 31, 2024.

The BIR said the submission of inventory reports and/or notice required in compliance with the transitory provisions of Revenue Regulation No. 7-2024 could now be done through email. It issued the pronouncements under Revenue Regulation No. 112024 and Revenue Memorandum Circular No. 66-2024 to make the transition to the system under the Ease of Paying Taxes Act (EOPT) more accommodating to taxpayers. “All remaining official receipts can be used, until fully consumed. Inventory reports and notices can be submitted through email. The BIR is committed to making the transition to EOPT as convenient to taxpayers as possible. Comments and suggestions on the different services provided by the BIR and its implementation of the EOPT are welcome,” Lumagui said. The BIR said that after the enactment of EOPT into law, it has been working tirelessly in harmonizing the different regulations, systems and processes under its mandate with the EOPT. It also conducted EOPT roadshows in in Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, Koronadal and Pangasinan. The top officials of the BIR also conducted lectures on EOPT updates, with taxpayers, practitioners and businessmen in attendance.

The BIR said it would continue to hold EOPT roadshows in the coming weeks as part of the taxpayer education program.

DOE prepares La Niña contingencies to avoid possible power outages

THE Department of Energy (DOE) said it is preparing contingences to minimize the impact of the La Nina weather phenomenon to the power industry and avoid possible outages.

“We are already preparing. We have prepared measures. Because if the rains are too heavy, as we have experienced in Typhoon Aghon, the power lines, especially in the areas which were hit by heavy rains, were interrupted, the ones in Quezon. So we have to prepare for contingencies,” Energy

Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.

Lotilla said the resumption of the reserve market would help provide additional supply.

“We will see the reserve market already online, operating because the reserve market will allow the diesel and bunker fuel power plants to run and

get the compensation that they need in order to run. So that will help us get to any of possible interruptions due to La Nina,” the energy chief said.

Lotilla said the DOE was preparing “for the worst” under La Nina, with the least power interruptions.

“We’ve got to make sure that the hopefully the La Nina will be there after already the dams have been replenished so that the hydros can be fully operational. Right now, most of them are still not operating,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lotilla said members of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry could help secure supply for participating in the interruptible load program.

He said this allowed the country to minimize the shortages in the grid, as the El Nino dry spell had a tremendous impact on demand.

“These are things that we have to prepare for because extreme weather events are likely to occur. We look forward also to new capacity coming online. We are expecting at the end of this year around 2,000 megawatts of base load power and another 2,000 MW of renewable power will help us address future demand,” he said.

Alena Mae S. Flores

Aboitiz Power pushes balanced energy transition

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ABOITIZ Power Corp. is advocating for an “all-options-on-the-table” approach to the Philippine energy transition to ensure grid stability and reliably meet electricity demand, while gradually decarbonizing the system.

AboitizPower chief corporate services officer Carlos Aboitiz said this involves a just and balanced strategy of maximizing existing, traditional capacities; integrating emerging technologies, working with dispatchable and variable renewable energy with battery energy systems.

“In the energy sector, we provide value to society by providing energy when it’s needed at a reasonable cost and with the least adverse environmental impact,” Aboitiz said during the Stratbase ADR Institute and CitizenWatch Philippines’ forum entitled “Advancing Energy Security: Fueling Sustainable Progress with Liquefied Natural Gas” held at the Asian Institute of Management on Monday.

“Sometimes, achieving one objective means compromising on another, making this a supremely difficult job,” Aboitiz said.

He said the Philippines has erratic power supply, unsubsidized rates and ambitions of becoming an upper middle-income economy.

“In the Philippines, we’re experiencing energy insecurity as evidenced by the many red and yellow alerts. This is the result of demand growing faster than expected, constrained supply growth, and an inadequate transmission and distribution infrastructure,” he said.

“Given our context of energy insecurity, higher than average power prices, and lower than average emissions per capita, we believe that our priority should be to secure our energy system at the lowest possible cost to the consumer,” Aboitiz said.

Aboitiz said liquified natural gas (LNG) has an important role to play as a bridge fuel in the energy transition, allowing for more indigenous, variable renewable energy sources to enter the grid, as well as a bridge to getting impoverished Filipinos out of poverty and into modern society.

PH balance of payments posted $2-b surplus in May

By Ralph Harvey Rirao

THE Philippines posted a $2-billion balance of payments (BOP) surplus in May 2024, rebounding from the $439-million deficit recorded in the same month last year, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

“The BOP surplus in May 2024 reflected inflows arising mainly from the national government’s net foreign currency deposits with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas which include proceeds from its issuance of ROP

global bonds and net income from the BSP’s investments abroad,” the BSP said in a statement.

Data show that despite the uptick in May, the BOP surplus in the first five months declined to $1.6 billion

IN BRIEF

Vivant investing P22b until 2030

PUBLICLY-LISTED and Cebu-based energy and water conglomerate Vivant Corp. said Thursday it earmarked P22 billion in investments up to 2030.

“Banking on our sustained revenue and operating income amounting to P2.3 billion for full-year 2023, we see continued growth for this year,” said Vivant Corp. chief executive Arlo Garcia Sarmiento. “We are extremely proud of how we’ve been able to move the country forward with our significant investments in energy and water.”

Vivant posted a 43 percent year-on-year growth in its bottomline for 2023, driven by the solid financial performance of the company’s energy strategic business unit Vivant Energy Corp. The energy unit had a total income contribution of P3.1 billion, a 36-percent jump from the previous year.

Vivant Energy achieved several milestones such as expanded investment in the Small Power Utilities Group (SPUG) which resulted in significant increase in attributable installed capacity from 35 MW to 63 MW. Alena Mae S. Flores

PLDT teams up with global group

PLDT Inc.’s wireless arm Smart Communications and its enterprise unit PLDT Enterprise teamed up with GSMA, a global mobile operator association to revolutionize the digital landscape in the Philippines through the GSMA Open Gateway initiative.

GSMA’s Open Gateway initiative promotes a framework of common and standardized application programmable interfaces (APIs) designed to create compatibility and connectivity and provide enterprise developers with universal access to mobile operator networks around the world.

Common APIs promise to enable faster deployment of new services and safer and more secure digital experiences and pave the way to a more immersive 5G experience for Filipino business owners, enterprises and mobile subscribers.

“Digital transformation has always been our common goal—to help businesses, individuals, and organizations, not just locally but globally. This collaboration marks a leap towards new innovation, aligning with our shared commitment to driving the success of our partners through impactful solutions,” said Mitch Locsin, first vice president and head of enterprise and international core business at PLDT and Smart.

Darwin G.

Amojelar

Cebu airport launches new transfer system

Aboitiz InfraCapital GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corp. (AGMCAC), operator of Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), said it launched its newest transfer system service dubbed “Cebu Connect.”

Cebu Connect is designed to facilitate efficient and seamless airport transfers within MCIA, reducing layover time and maximizing comfort and convenience for travelers.

Cebu Connect aims to boost tourism by positioning Cebu as an ideal entry point for both domestic and international tourists. Cebu’s strategic location in the heart of the Philippines offers easy access to stunning destinations in Central and Southern Philippines such as Siargao, Camiguin, Bohol, Boracay, and Palawan, all just a short flight away.

“Cebu Connect aims to cut layover time from an hour to 30 minutes or less, giving both domestic and international passengers more freedom to travel to their destination. This is part of MCIA’s commitment to meeting global standards in airport operations,” said AGMCAC chief executive Athanasios Titonis.

this year from $2.9-billion surplus recorded a year ago.

The BSP said the continued BOP surplus was reflected by narrowing trade deficits in goods and continued inflows from personal remittances, foreign borrowings by the government, foreign direct investments, foreign portfolio investments and trade in services.

It also reflected an increase in the final gross international reserves (GIR) level to $105.0 billion as of end-May 2024 from $102.6 billion as of endApril 2024.

“The latest GIR level represents a more than adequate external liquidity buffer equivalent to 7.7 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income,” the BSP said.

It was also about 6.1 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 3.8 times based on residual maturity.

The GIR tally was released as part of the balance of payments report for May 2024.

Shakey’s expects stronger second half as inflation begins to stabilize

By Jenniffer B. Austria

RESTAURANT operator

Shakeys

Pizza Asia Ventures Inc. said Thursday it expects to sustain its doubledigit growth this year as consumer spending will likely recover in the second half.

Shakey’s president and chief executive Vicente Gregorio said in an interview following the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting that while the first half was challenging for the restaurant business because of the inflationary environment, the second half presents opportunities for margin recovery.

“We see this year to be a better performing in the second half of the year where some of our input costs are already expected to go down,” Gregorio said.

“We see the improving sales will be able to offset and provide us the coverage for fixed costs and therefore margin base is expected to improve,” he said.

Shakey’s expects sales and net income to grow by mid-teens in 2024, he said.

Shakey’s saw its net income decline 15 percent in the first quarter to P171.5 million from P200.8 million in the same period last year, on higher operating expenses due to investments in the organization and sales-generating activities.

DBP LOAN. Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Marie Torres-Gomez (center) shakes hands with Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) Tacloban Lending Center head Janet Dacillo following the P300-million loan agreement signing, with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), Ormoc City LGU and DBP officials in attendance.

Camarines Norte Port poised to become Bicol’s logistics hub

THE Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is revving up the Jose Panganiban Port in Camarines Norte, with an expansion project aimed at transforming it into a key logistics hub for the Bicol region.

PPA general manager Jay Santiago, together with Senator Robinhood Padilla and Camarines Norte Governor Ricarte Padilla broke ground for the expansion and improvement of Jose Panganiban Port.

The Jose Panganiban Port is located in Barangay Osmeña and has export cargo operations. Before the pandemic, the port recorded 8,673 metric tons (MT) of foreign cargoes.

A foreign non-RoRo vessel was also docked here in 2019.

“This will be of great help to the residents of Camarines Norte, especially since it will serve as a logistics hub because of its strategic location in the middle of the Bicol region and the National Capital Region (NCR),” Santiago said.

“The local products of Camarines Norte will have a bridge through the PPA port to reach neighboring countries,” he said.

PPA is spending P543 million to expand the Jose Panganiban Port which is expected to be completed by November 2025.

Once finished, the port is expected to handle 18,516 MT of foreign cargoes and two non-RoRo vessels by 2032.

Governor Padilla said the project would be helpful for the importation of local products of Camarines Norte such as coconut and by-products, iron ore, silica, copra and others.

“If it wasn’t for him [Santiago], the reconstruction of our seaport would not have continued, and I see the dynamics of the national government now where the focus is on the modernization of our ports,” Gov. Padilla said.

The Jose Panganiban Port Improvement Project is part of the PPA’s mission to modernize the ports in the Philippines to develop the maritime industry.

PPA also inaugurated in April 2024 the new and improved Batangas Port Passenger Terminal Building (PTB), solidifying its position as the Philip-

PAL emerges as a trusted PH brand

PHILIPPINE Airlines emerged as one of the country’s top 50 trusted consumer brands in a survey conducted by Marketing Communications firms Campaign360 and Milieu Insight.

PAL placed tenth in the Philippine component of the Southeast Asia survey, and is also the only travel brand in the top 10 scoring high on quality of services, buying experience, customer service and trustworthiness Over 10,000 online interviews were conducted in the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam combined, tracking more than 1,200 brands from 11 sectors.

Brands were ranked on nine key attributes, namely: awareness, purchase, quality, buying experience, customer service, trustworthiness, innovation, brand touchpoints (ease of use across all digital and offline brand interactions), and advocacy (degree of recommendation). The Philippines’ ‘top 10’ are: Samsung, Shopee, Jollibee, Watsons, GCash, Lazada, McDonald’s, Netflix, Apple and Philippine Airlines.

“We are elated by this recognition as one of Southeast Asia’s most loved brands. We are inspired to work even harder and serve even better,” Capt. Stanley K. Ng, PAL president and chief operating officer said.

“We value the survey insights as these will guide us in sustaining the ‘wins’ and enhancing specific brand attributes. We are grateful to our workforce for their drive towards service excellence, and to our customers for their loyalty and support,” he added.

pines’ biggest and most advanced interisland maritime hub.

The expanded PTB, whose capacity increased to 8,000 passengers from the previous 2,500, has fullyairconditioned lounges, facilities for the elderly and persons with disabilities (PWDs), baggage x-ray machines, walkthrough metal detectors, food concession stands and extensive CCTV coverage. With the improved passenger ter-

From left are: OLSI general manager Miguel Gutierrez, VCT executive director Timothee Jeannin, and MSL president and chief executive officer Jesse Maxwell, grace the opening of OLSI’s integrated crossdock and consolidation facility in Iloilo

minal building, Batangas Port became the largest and most modern PTB among the ports managed by the PPA under its terminal operator, Asian Terminal Inc. (ATI).

Connecting mainland Luzon to Region IV-B or MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan) to Visayas (Iloilo, Negros and Cebu) and Mindanao via fast crafts, ferries and roll-on/roll-off (RORO) ships, the Batangas Port plays a significant

MAGSAYSAY Shipping and Logistics (MSL), through its freight forwarding arm One Stop Logistics Solutions Inc. (OLSI),has partnered with Visayas Container Terminal (VCT) to boost their services in Iloilo.

The partnership kicked off with the inauguration of an integrated crossdock and consolidation facility inside VCT’s Iloilo business hub.

“This fortifies our capability to serve more volumes and improve further our metrics to our customers. We see exciting growth in Iloilo which we want to capitalize on us a group,” Miguel Gutierrez, OLSI general manager said.

Strategically located at the heart of Central Philippines, the 6,912 sqm crossdock facility will make OLSI more accessible to clients who are

role in stimulating the nation’s economy as a portal to agricultural areas, a gateway to island tourism destinations and a hub for goods and other products.

PPA said the planning for the Batangas PTB modernization started in 2020. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, construction began in 2021 and Phase 1 was completed in 2022. Phase 2 was finished in the first quarter of 2024. Darwin G. Amojelar

shipping off goods from Manila, and will strengthen OLSI’s reach in the Panay Islands. With the promising venture, MSL plans to do more engagements with VCT.

“We thank VCT for this opportunity to set up shop within the terminal,” Jesse Maxwell said. “Its location is strategic, where we can serve domestic cargo seamlessly then possibly explore last mile deliveries for international goods as well,” Jesse Maxwell, MSL president and chief executive said. VCT Executive Director Timothee Jeannin said he is very happy to see the rapid growth of Magsaysay in VCT,” said Timothee Jeannin.

“Their crossdocking activities and tactics bring significant added value to the shipping lines and consignees

2GO celebrates a decade of collaboration with FedEx

2GO, the country’s largest logistics solutions provider celebrates 10 years of collaboration with FedEx, one of the world’s largest transportation companies, to make international shipping more accessible to Filipinos through 2GO’s extensive retail network.

“Our goal is to deliver outstanding experiences for our customers by making it easier and more convenient for them,” aribeth Espinosa, managing director of FedEx Philippines said.

“With the anticipated growth of ecommerce in Asia Pacific, expanding access points for e-tailers, SMEs, and solopreneurs is crucial in making their businesses more competitive. Our collaboration with 2GO exemplifies how FedEx connects people and possibilities, and is one of the milestones we celebrate this year as we mark our 40th anniversary in the Philippines,” he added.

Reliable logistics connects mother and daughter

Julie Santos, a 62-year-old mother from Bacolod, needed to send important documents to her daughter, who is working as a nurse, in New York. April required the documents for her work records. Aware of 2GO FedEx services, Julie visited the SM Business Center in Bacolod to send her parcel.

“I needed a courier I could trust, one that was secure and easy to find, which is why I chose 2GO,” said Mrs. Santos. “I was even able to include a bracelet her sister made as a lucky charm. Sure enough, within four days, the package arrived safely at my daughter’s apartment.”

Frederic DyBuncio, president and chief executive of 2GO Group, Inc., expressed gratitude for the wonderful work with FedEx, stating, “2GO Group values our collaboration with FedEx, which empowers Filipinos to expand their horizons. By bridging the gap for local parcels, for personal or business, beyond borders, we’re not just delivering packages; we’re delivering opportunities.” 2GO offers FedEx services in 895 stores including SM Business Center, Alfamart, Waltermart, Fax Parcel and Print, and Savemore, thereby extending the global company’s local reach in the Philippines.

of our Terminal. Magsaysay has been able to put in place a close coordination and high- quality information flow among the manufacturers, distributors, and customers they are already working with in such a short period of time,” Jeannin said.

“The positive impact on the shipping lines is also very significant as they can optimize the rotation of their equipment (containers) through direct unstuffing in the terminal,” he added.

Presently, OLSI manages eight facilities located at Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Metro Manila (Malabon and Valenzuela), and Tacloban that provide efficient inbound and outbound delivery network as well as storage space to support OLSI customers.

GrabUnlimited gets supercharged with everyday GrabCar discounts

GRAB Philippines has extended its subscription package beyond everyday deliveries, providing its subscribers with enhanced safety and convenience for their trips through everyday 8 percent GrabCar discounts

GrabUnlimited, since its launch in July 2022, has consistently provided its subscribers with exclusive savings and deals on everyday deliveries, satisfying the cravings and needs of food enthusiasts and grocery buyers eager to get the best bang for their every buck. Today, GrabUnlimited evolves yet again to cater to the demand of the commuting public for sulit, safe, and convenient transportation.

GrabUnlimited now screams “Sakay Na” as it gets supercharged with exclusive everyday 8 percent GrabCar discounts for only P48 per month if subscribed via the annual plan.

The GrabUnlimited subscription can be availed via various payment plans:

• Annual Plan: P 576 (P48 per month!)

• Semi-Annual Plan: P408

• Monthly Plan: P88

“GrabUnlimited, having been reinforced with everyday GrabCar discounts, is now the official gateway to the unparalleled Grab superapp experience. Standing as the nation’s sole subscription plan encompassing the widest array of ondemand services — from deliveries to mobility— GrabUnlimited goes beyond offering savings and exceptional value,” EJ Dela Vega, Grab Philippines head of Mobility said.

“It effectively transforms and enriches daily life as it elevates everyday deliveries and transport routines,” he added.

Grab Philippines director for Deliveries Greg Camacho believes that by incorporating GrabCar into the GrabUnlimited plan, there will be a significant boost in the adoption of subscription models for ondemand services among Filipinos, effectively raising the bar for the subscribers’ Grab experience.

Magsaysay, Visayas Container Terminal

From left: Senator Robinhood Padilla, PPA general manager Jay Santiago and Camarines Norte Governor Ricarte Padilla

FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

Pageant Concept Eton Concepcion

AFTER being crowned Miss Universe Philippines 2024, Chelsea Manalo has been on a busy schedule, attending various events. In her hometown of Bulacan, a traditional victory parade and celebration were held in her honor, where she was greeted by proud and cheering Bulacaneous.

A short program was held in front of the Capitol building, presided by Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando and Vice Governor Alex Castro, citing Manalo for her outstanding achievement in representing her province.

Manalo also took part in the celebration of the country’s 126th Independence Day joining the Parada ng Kalayaan at the Quirino Grandstand witnessed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos. She wore a white Filipiniana terno embellished with pink roses. She was greeted by Miss Universe 1969 Gloria Diaz at the event.

Manalo also graced the launching ceremony of the new Centro de Turismo Intramuros in Arzobispo/Anda Street in Intramuros, Manila, and the Museo de Intramuros, a groundbreaking museum that houses works of art and historical items related to Walled City’s glorious past.

A Tourism Management graduate at De La Salle University, Manalo, wearing a green dress, paid a visit to her alma mater at Taft Avenue where she got mobbed by enthusiastic students and school staff.

Artwork honors OFWs in France

While her art exhibit is still ongoing at The Manor in Camp John Hay, Baguio City, Filipino artist Myse Salonga recently donated a painting to the Philippine Embassy in Paris, France, received by Philippine Ambassador to France Junever Mahilum-West in Paris.

The painting entitled “Marianne,” was dedicated to the hardworking overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in France. Salonga recognized the sacrifices of Marianne Tan, a pharmacist who left her family and daughter in the Philippines and took odd jobs in France before she, eventually, earned a working visa.

“This piece pays tribute to sacrifices and dedication of our OFWs in France,” said Salonga, who was the 50 international artists featured in a Paris fund-raising exhibit for the children from Uganda, Tanzania, and the Philippines, in celebration of the 21st edition of Rendezvous aux Jardins , a project of the French Minister of Culture.

Paul Pablo

celebrates Pride Month with

anthem ‘Atin Ang Gabi’

By Nickie Wang

AS PRIDE Month kicks off, the anthems of love, freedom, and expression are louder than ever. Davaoeño singer-songwriter Paul Pablo joins the celebration with his latest single, “Atin Ang Gabi,” a power-pop anthem that urges listeners to embrace a life full of adventures and possibilities.

Paul Pablo, who grew up in a conservative town and attended a Catholic university, shared his struggles with being true to his identity as a gay man.

“I was out there, but I always feared stepping out of my comfort zone,” he recounted. Through his journey, he has now fully embraced his identity and wants to share that joy with his audience. “I wrote this song to remind myself and

PRIDE Month is a time to celebrate love, diversity, and the vibrant spirit of the LGBTQ+ community. This special month also provides an important opportunity to recognize the significance of representation in media and entertainment.

As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s the perfect occasion to delve into stories that highlight LGBTQ+ experiences and characters. Here are some must-watch titles available on Lionsgate Play that celebrate these stories with depth and authenticity:

my community that the darkness may be scary, but it holds wonders. With a sense of community, we will get through the night with determination.”

Known for addressing societal issues through his music, Paul Pablo created “Atin Ang Gabi” during a Music Camp hosted by Warner Music Philippines. He collaborated with singer-songwriter Sam Akins,

The track was mixed by Jorel Corpus and mastered by Jett Galindo

Since launching his music career, Pablo has performed on numerous stages and won several awards, including the Best Cover Art award at the Awit Awards 2022 for his single “Kalawakan.” He has committed to making music full-time, relocating to Manila to further his career as an all-around performer.

Paul Pablo is set to perform at Love Laban

group BINI, internet favorites Maris Racal and Sassa Gurl, and Drag Race Philippines alumna Marina Summers

“Atin Ang Gabi” is now available on streaming platforms, and the “Atin Ang Gabi” playlist can be found on Spotify. authentic and unapologetic portrayal of queer lives within a community that is often overlooked in mainstream media.

4. Date and Switch Date and Switch is a teen comedy about two best friends, Michael (Nicholas Braun) and Matty (Hunter Cope), who make a pact to lose their virginity before prom. However, things get complicated when Matty comes out as gay. This revelation leads to a series of hilarious hijinks as they navigate high school drama, wild parties, and the ups and downs of their friendship. With its blend of humor and heartfelt moments, Date and Switch offers a lighthearted yet sincere narrative of acceptance, coming out, and sexual exploration.

1. Girlfriend Experience Girlfriend Experience is an anthology series that explores the intricate relationships of exclusive escorts and their clients. Each season features new characters and standalone stories, allowing viewers to jump in at any point. The first season centers on Christine Reade (Riley Keough), a law student who becomes a high-end escort, and delves into themes of power, empowerment, and sexual fluidity. The show offers a nuanced portrayal of complex characters and their intimate relationships, including the emotional depth of same-sex relationships, making it a thought-provoking series for Pride Month.

they have stories worth sharing.

2. P-Valley Set in the Mississippi Delta, P-Valley follows the lives of dancers at a strip club called The Pynk. Its rich ensemble of characters showcases diverse personas from across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, from Uncle Clifford (Nicco Annan),

3. Vida Vida is a bold, raw exploration of Latinx culture and queerness. The show centers around two MexicanAmerican sisters, Emma (Mishel Prada) and Lyn (Melissa Barrera), who return to their old Los Angeles neighborhood after the death of their mother. Soon, they are shocked to discover that their late mother was married to a woman. Vida offers an

5. Minx Minx is set in the 1970s and follows a young feminist (Ophelia Lovibond) who collaborates with a small-time publisher to launch the first erotic magazine for women. Together, they navigate gender politics and the quest for sexual liberation. The show authentically depicts the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals during this era, where societal norms often forced them to conceal their identities.

Lionsgate Play is accessible to consumers in the Philippines via the app. For a monthly subscription cost of P79, the titles can be streamed with a PLDT Home account.

Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo (center) with Bulacan governor Daniel Fernando (rightmost) and vice governor Alex Castro (leftmost)

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

IN AN intimate interview last month, award-winning actor and entrepreneur

RS Francisco shared that he has always dreamt of creating a sanctuary for the LGBTQIA+ community. This dream, conceived even before the pandemic, materialized in February this year when Rampa, Quezon City’s first-ever drag club, opened its doors to the public.

A few Friday nights ago with some friends, I found myself singing a mix of old and recent hits at the top of my lungs. This was while I was chugging down a glass of water flavored with a little lemon juice from what was supposed to be a chaser for tequila. Known among my friends as the introvert, non-alcoholic drinker, and homebody who would rather Netflix and chill than party, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and felt safe and comfortable in the place with a diverse group of people.

Rampa, which literally means “walk down the catwalk,” is now loosely used as an expression to refer to “the walk into the party scene.” As a brand, Rampa in Quezon City is more than just a club. It has become a stage where everyone, especially the LGBTQIA+ community, can shine.

In RS’ own words, “Rampa is a club I had in my mind even before the pandemic. I wanted to give the LGBTQIA+ a safe space where they can be celebrated, where they can be themselves, where

RS Francisco

they are celebrated themselves.”

“I really want to have a safe space here in Quezon. City,” RS shared in a mix of Tagalog and English, emphasizing his desire to establish a place where the community feels empowered and celebrated. “Sometimes, being part of the community myself, I feel like a minority in a place, an event or an occasion. I want to give them a space where they can be the stars,” the passionate advocate and businessman explained.

“That is also why I coined the term rampa because it’s like slaying or working it. When you’re there, rumampa ka [You slayed], you’re the star,” RS added.

The journey to creating Rampa was not without its hurdles. After initially facing resistance or doubts from others in the planning stage, RS’ determination and passion for the project eventually prevailed. He elaborated, “I had to lobby. It was hard to push for my agenda for the LGBTQIA+ community. But I pushed hard and in 2023, I told myself, I won’t stop. I said that by the end of 2023 or early 2024, I already need to create a safe space for the community. So, on February 17, 2024, Rampa was launched.”

While Rampa is known for its eyecatching drag performances, RS emphasized that the club welcomes everyone. “You’ll see how safe and welcome you’ll feel when you’re there. Each of us is a star there. We can all rampa

Director praises cosmic chemistry on ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ set

DIRECTOR Greg Berlanti knew from the first rehearsal they had for Fly Me to the Moon that Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum would have great chemistry.

“When you work with stars of this magnitude – who are stars for a reason – you know that they each have a filming element that most people don’t have,” says Berlanti, whose fan-favorite previous works include Love, Simon and the TV series You

“But you do wonder, like until they are in a room together and I’m watching them act together, do they have chemistry? I knew from our first rehearsal. They were so inventive and fun with each other. They each have their brand of comedy and drama but they fit well together. It was exciting to see what was going to happen every day,” the director adds.

Fly Me to the Moon is a stylish, multi-faceted comedy-drama with a hint of romance set against the high-stakes of NASA’s Apollo 11 moon landing.

Johansson plays marketing maven

Kelly Jones, who is tasked by the White House to stage a fake moon landing as backup – and this mission does not sit well with launch director Cole Davis, played by Tatum. But, says Johansson, who is also one of the film’s producers, though there may be a little contempt between Kelly and Cole at times, you still see that they have a connection, and sparks fly.

In Fly Me to the Moon, Berlanti creates a film that is simultaneously a comedy that recalls the sharp banter of Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, and also a drama with something to say about the importance of the truth; it is epically told on the enormous scale of the Apollo missions, and also the intimate story of two people coming together.

“The tether is always the performance – to have actors who can be silly in one moment

We are all celebrated.”

To ensure a truly inclusive environment, Francisco and his team have taken significant steps to educate the staff about LGBTQIA+ issues and SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression). RS said it was made possible by the help of Paulo Castro and Darryl Reciña, the names he referred to as experts in LGBTQIA+ and SOGIE matters. They conducted orientation sessions with the staff and performers.

“I’ll be honest with you, even I, as a member of the community, I still get a little confused at times. I don’t want to pretend that I know everything. I don’t want to claim authority when it comes to the subject matter so we got experts,” RS admitted.

“Our members, bartenders, staff, bouncers, they know how to properly deal with customers and address situations, even our drag performers. We made sure that everyone is properly oriented with SOGIE to avoid issues.”

“The bottom line is always respect,” RS emphasized, as he further discussed the inclusivity Rampa wishes to promote. “ How you see yourself, I respect that. As long as you’re not stepping on anyone’s toes, you’re not doing anything illegal, you’re not taking advantage of others, I respect you.”

the serious stuff more serious, and the funny stuff funnier, because it adds an element of surprise; you don’t know what you’re going to get from moment to moment. It’s a testament to the actors being able to do that.”

And Berlanti says that if Kelly and Cole’s mission to get to the moon is reflected in their coming together under the moon… well, that’s no accident. “Next to going to the moon, love may be the most ambitious thing a person can take on,” he says, noting that both aspirations – going to the moon or allowing oneself to become moonstruck – require a leap into the unknown. “The moon is mystical and magical.”

“You have to imagine for thousands of years for the human species, it was the brightest light in the evening when all of the magical romantic things were happening. That’s so ingrained in us. What it has in common with the romance and the aspirations of the world at that time is the ambition –the giving yourself over to something

Fly Me to the Moon, also starring Woody Harrelson, Ray Romano, Jim Rash, opens in cinemas on July 10. Fly Me to the Moon is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, the local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International

The stage is lit up by the star power of drag performers, including Drag Race Philippine alumni Precious Paula Nicole Brigiding, and Viñas De Luxe collectively known as the Divine Divas. Rampa’s lineup also takes pride in the performances by Kiari, Katana, Neenja, Bomba Ding, Zymba Ding, and a lot more.

These days, Rampa stands as the manifestation of RS Francisco’s artistic vision, compassion, and love. Following his recognition for acting stints and establishment of a multilevel business empire, success does not come as a shock. RS effortlessly slays through it all by walking his talk.

LEVERAGING on today’s evolving technology, GMA Integrated News (GMAIN) adds another digital product to its growing lineup, introducing its first-ever news podcast, Philippines Today

Developed by GMA Integrated News Digital Strategy and Innovation Lab (DigiLab), in collaboration with GMA News Online and the New Media Inc., Philippines Today is the newest source of information for Filipinos everywhere as it provides the latest and most significant news headlines to all podcast listeners.

Fresh episodes drop every morning from Monday to Friday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Listeners with Alexa-enabled speakers can also enjoy the podcast.

“As we launch the latest addition to our ever-growing offerings here at GMA Integrated News, we invite everyone to tune in at your favorite streaming platform and be the first to

know the hottest headlines including news you can use and the latest stories happening in all parts of the world,” says Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso.

“We developed this podcast to provide a new way for our audience to stay updated with the latest news. It’s part of GMA Integrated News’ strategy to reach younger audiences and meet them where they are, as shown by last year’s Reuters Digital News Report, which found that people under 35 are more likely to listen to news,” shares Senior Manager and Deputy Head of Digital Strategy and Innovation Lab Bernice Sibucao Among the other podcasts produced by GMAIN are The Howie Severino Podcast, The Mangahas Interviews, Updated with Nelson Canlas, Surprise Guest with Pia Arcangel, Share Ko Lang, and Game On!

Scarlett Johansson (left) and Channing Tatum star in ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ as Kelly Jones and Cole Davis

Random Talk Kate Adajar

Actor and entrepreneur RS Francisco opens ‘Rampa’ with the intention of providing a safe space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community

Rampa is the first drag club in Quezon City

Rampa features show-stopping drag performances to foster a fun and empowering time to all its guests

FRIDAY, JUNE 21,

NICKIE WANG, ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, ABIGAIL ADRIATICO,

Editor Writer Writer

An extraordinary tribute to Philippine culture brought to life by trailblazing fashion designers

THE Philippines’ maritime history museum, Museo Del Galeon, located within the SM Mall of Asia, became an unexpected runway for celebrating modern Filipino fashion. TernoCon 2024, a highly anticipated event, transformed the museum’s halls into an effulgent stage where talented designers presented stunning terno creations, uniting a community passionate about showcasing Filipino fashion heritage through this iconic garment.

Very Wang

Nickie Wang

Santiago, and Jaggy Glarino – stunned the audience with collections that paid homage to Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Each collection was a personal tribute, weaving stories of our heritage into every piece.

Jojie Lloren’s collection “A Lullaby for my Mother” featured 12 elegant ternos dedicated to his beloved mother and the Motherland.

Titled “KKK: Kasarinlan, Kultura, Kasuotan,” the fashion show commemorated the 126th year of Philippine Independence, showcasing our culture’s rich history through the iconic terno. The event was made possible with the collaboration of Bench/ lifestyle + clothing and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

Cary Santiago’s “Ikonograpiya” celebrated iconic Filipino symbols like the Sampaguita, the jeepney, and sorbetes (Filipino ice cream) with 12 ternos inspired by the vivid colors of the national flag.

Jaggy Glarino’s “Lemlunay,” drawing from Mindanao’s rich cultural heritage, enchanted the audience with nine ternos and three barongs.

Among the notable attendees were Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Vice Chair Carissa Coscolluela Bench/ lifestyle + clothing founder Chan, First Lady of the Philippines Liza AranetaMarcos, SM

Markets Chairman Herbert Sy, CCP President Kaye Tinga, and other influential figures from various industries. Three trailblazing fashion designers –Jojie Lloren, Cary

Singer-songwriter JK Labajo is one of the attendees of the fashion show

The Apostle is fiery in all of his messages. It is the power God gave him to defend the church in debates and to continue enlightening the minds of people to convert to Christian belief. This has also strengthened the 4th Watchers in their faith — a doctrine not derived from human knowledge but from the wisdom of God. The Apostle is the Goodman prophesied by Christ to make His people watch.

THE LIFE AND MINISTRY OF APOSTLE ARSENIO FERRIOL Apostle Arsenio T. Ferriol was a beacon of spiritual enlightenment and a guiding force whose life and ministry touched countless souls. Born into humble beginnings, Apostle Ferriol’s early years were marked by a deep-seated curiosity about faith and spirituality. This inquisitiveness led him to an intensive study of the Scriptures, laying the groundwork for what would become an extraordinary journey of spiritual leadership. His ministry began in earnest during a period of significant social and political upheaval, yet Ferriol remained steadfast in his mission to spread the Gospel. He possessed an uncanny ability to connect with people from all walks of life, delivering messages that resonated deeply with both the devout and those new to faith. His sermons were not just words but lifelines that offered hope, guidance, and reassurance.

Apostle Ferriol’s influence extended beyond mere oratory; he was a man of action who established numerous community programs aimed at improving lives through both spiritual and practical means. Under his guidance, the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch) flourished as centers for education, social advocacies and social welfare— embodying his belief that faith should be lived out through service. One of the hallmarks of Apostle Ferriol’s ministry was his unwavering commitment to nurturing future leaders within the church.

He mentored countless individuals who went on to become influential figures in their own right, thereby ensuring that his legacy would endure long after he had preached his final sermon. Through decades of devoted service, Apostle Arsenio Ferriol became more than just a religious leader; he was a spiritual giant whose impact will be felt for generations to come.

THE ENDURING LEGACY OF APOSTLE FERRIOL

Apostle Arsenio T. Ferriol’s enduring legacy is a tapestry woven with threads of unwavering faith, spiritual leadership, and transformative impact. As the founder of the PMCC (4th Watch), his vision extended beyond mere establishment; it was about fostering a community rooted in deep spiritual conviction and genuine fellowship. His teachings emphasized not just the rituals of faith but its lived experience—how spirituality can permeate daily life and relationships.

Bishop Jonathan Ferriol, the 2nd son of Apostle Ferriol the newly appointed Chief Executive Minister of the PMCC (4th Watch), in an interview said, “My father’s commitment to biblical truth and evangelism created ripples that traversed continents, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their faith more fully. His ministry was marked by an unrelenting dedication to spreading the gospel, nurturing not just believers’ souls but also their minds through theological training, media outlets for broader reach, and community programs addressing social needs.”

The atmosphere at Ternocon 2024 was filled with a sense of elegance and national pride. Guests adorned in their finest ternos, barongs, and modern Filipiniana interpretations turned the event into a stunning display of Filipino beauty.

From socialites and celebrities in showstopping outfits to fashion enthusiasts sporting avant-garde creations, the crowd embodied the brilliant spirit of Filipino fashion, celebrating their heritage through style.

Glamorous attendees included Lucy Torres and Richard Gomez, Pasay City Mayor Emi CalixtoRubiano, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, Philippine Airlines President Stanley Ng, and a host of other prominent figures. The presence of fashion icons like Inno Sotto JC

On August 26, 2023, during the church’s 50th-year celebration, Apostle Arsenio appointed Bishop Jonathan S. Ferriol as the Deputy Executive Minister. Despite torrential rain casting doubt on the event’s success, the faith of Apostle Arsenio prevailed. The rain stopped, and a miraculous celebration ensued, marking a divine sign of victory. Today, Bishop Jonathan S. Ferriol continues his father’s work as the new Chief Executive Minister.

“For 50 years, the PMCC (4th Watch) was under his leadership and guidance, and with his faith he knew that with God’s grace and mercy, the church he built will grow and flourish. From a very small congregation, our church members is 1 million already, and we will continue to spread the Gospel, to win souls for Jesus Christ,” stressed Bishop Ferriol.

Even after his passing, Apostle Ferriol’s influence remains palpable. His teachings continue to guide new generations of believers, ensuring that his message of hope and salvation endures. The communities he built thrive as living testaments to his life’s work—a legacy not confined by time but constantly evolving through those he touched.

APOSTLE FERRIOL’S IMPACT ON THE CHURCH AND BEYOND

Apostle Arsenio T. Ferriol’s impact on the church and beyond is both profound and far-reaching, transcending geographical boundaries and touching countless lives. As a spiritual leader, his influence has been instrumental in shaping the theological landscape of his community, fostering a deeper understanding of faith among believers. His teachings have illuminated the path for many, offering clarity and guidance in times of spiritual uncertainty.

Beyond the confines of the church walls, Apostle Ferriol’s humanitarian efforts showcased his holistic view of ministry. “My father believed that spiritual nourishment should

Remembering the legacy of Apostle Arsenio Ferriol: A tribute to a spiritual leader

be accompanied by tangible acts of kindness and support for those in need. Through various charitable initiatives, he addressed social issues such as poverty and education, embodying the biblical principle of love thy neighbor. This is the reason the PMCC (4th Watch) is very active in doing medical missions, feeding programs, tree planting, and many more. Tay as I fondly call him, was a lover of Christ, of people and the ministry,” Bishop Ferriol recalled. His eloquence as a speaker captivated audiences across different cultures and languages. Whether through sermons or written works, Ferriol communicated complex theological concepts with simplicity yet powerful. “Tay was a traditional Pentecostal preacher, he preached strongly yet with grace. His ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds underscored his universal appeal as a man dedicated to spreading hope and faith,” said Bishop Jonathan Ferriol.

“Tay passed on at the age of 88, though very old his mission also involved pioneering new ways to communicate timeless truths, leveraging media platforms long before it became commonplace in religious circles. In today’s digital age, utilizing social media, podcasts, and online sermons can significantly amplify the reach of his message. He wanted to reach all the corners of the world tp spread the Gospel – this was his purpose – to make the word of God known to the world.”

“Ultimately, carrying forward

Apostle Arsenio Ferriol’s mission means more than preserving his memory; it entails actively engaging in the work he began—spreading hope, fostering unity, and nurturing a living faith that continues to inspire hearts worldwide. By doing so, we ensure that his legacy remains vibrant and impactful for generations to come,” Bishop Ferriol quipped. Moreover, Apostle Ferriol’s teachings on love and compassion were revolutionary in their simplicity yet profound in impact. He urged his followers to embody Christ-like love— unconditional, selfless, and encompassing all humanity. This call to love became a cornerstone of community building within his ministry, fostering unity among diverse individuals drawn together by shared spiritual goals. In reflecting upon his legacy, we see a tapestry woven with threads of divine wisdom: faith that moves mountains, love that heals hearts, and teachings that continue to guide believers toward eternal truths. The enduring impact of Apostle Arsenio Ferriol’s wisdom is evident not only in the lives he directly touched but also in the continuing vibrancy of his spiritual mission today.

In essence, Apostle Ferriol’s legacy is one that bridges spirituality with practical action—a testament to what can be achieved when faith is lived out fully and authentically. His life serves as an enduring inspiration for future generations who seek to make a meaningful impact on both their communities and the world at large.

Buendia, and celebrated fashion director Daryl Chang added to the event’s prestige. Ternocon 2024 celebrated the beauty of tradition while embracing modernity, proving once again that Filipino fashion is unique, elegant, and trendy all at the same time.

From left: SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, Philippine Airlines president Stanley Ng, and Bench Lifestyle + Clothing founder Ben Chan

Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres (left) and Leyte Representative Richard Gomez

From left: Model Vanna Garcia, TV host Daphne Osena-Paez, and model Kelly Misa-Fernandez

Fashion designer Cary Santiago (right) with Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee

Drawing inspiration from Apostle Arsenio’s legacy, Chief Executive Minister Bishop Jonathan S. Ferriol travels globally, empowering believers and spreading the gospel, saving souls through the Home Free Global Crusade.