Manila Standard - 2024 July 15 - Monday

GATCHALIAN SAYS POGOS HAVE TURNED

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE presence of illegitimate online gaming operations has apparently turned the Philippines into a “money laundering hub,” Senator Sherwin Gatchalian lamented Sunday, after billions of pesos in suspicious transactions entered the country’s financial system.

Gatchalian issued the statement following the Anti-Money Laundering Council’s (AMLC) revelation that billions of pesos from several

Trump hurt but defiant after failed slay attempt

20-year old shooter, 1 supporter killed; 2 others hurt

BUTLER, United States—

Donald Trump was hit in the ear in an assassination attempt by a gunman at a campaign rally Saturday, in a chaotic and shocking incident set to supercharge political tensions ahead of the polarizing US presidential election.

The 78-year-old former president was rushed off stage with blood streaked across his face after the shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania, while the shooter and a bystander were killed and two spectators critically injured.

The Republican candidate raised a defiant fist to the crowd as he was bundled away to safety, and said af terward: "I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear."

President Joe Biden, who is set to face Trump in November's deeply polarized election, said the incident was "sick" and added that there was "no place in America for this kind of violence."

Biden later spoke to Trump, the White House said.

20-year old gunman

The FBI has identified

By Rex Espiritu

entities based in China allegedly flowed into the 36 bank accounts under the name of suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo or Guo Hua Ping. The bulk of the funds were deposited from 2019 to 2022, the period when the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) hub—which authorities raided last March—was being constructed. Gatchalian said the AMLC should have reported these transactions sooner.

Marcos sends well wishes to injured Trump

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. joined world leaders in extending his well wishes to former US president Donald Trump who survived an assasination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, United States.

“It is with great relief that we receive the news that former President Donald Trump is fine and well after the attempt to assassinate him,” President Marcos said on his official X account (formerly Twitter).

“Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family,” the President added.

President Marcos said the Philippines condemns all forms of political violence. He emphasized the supremacy of the voice of the people.

“Together with all democracy loving peoples around the world, we condemn all forms of political violence. The voice of the people must always remain supreme,” he said.

A PHILIPPINE Navy official said the service is fully supporting the government's plan to file new petitions against China’s aggression in the South China Sea before the United Nations.

Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, spokesperson, Philippine Navy for the West Philippine Sea, said they support the government's plan as a reaction to Chinese harassment.

“The government has been receiving advice to file new petitions aginst China before the UN for their ongoing harassment and it is considering this China instead is telling us not to but talk instead, ” Trinidad said In an interview with Super Radyo dzBB on Sunday. The navy official said he believes that whatever issues there are between the two countries should be brought to a court of law.

“If it were up to me, we should file a petition. Because China is afraid of us filing it. They would be embarrassed by it,” Trinidad added. Former Supreme Court Justice

By Rio N. Araja

Francis Jardeleza has advocated filing a second arbitral case against China in the West Philippine Sea, specifically for destruction of the environment in seven reefs.

“Among the main conclusions of the arbitral tribunal award of July 2016 was that China caused, through its land reclamation and construction of artificial islands, installations, and structures, severe, irreparable harm to the coral reef system at Mischief Reef, Cuarteron Reef, Firefly Cross Reef, Gaven Reef (North), Johnson Reef, Hughes Reef, and Subi Reef," said Jardeleza who was solicitor general when the Philippines filed the case against China in 2013.

“There is nothing therefore for us to prove insofar as the arbitral court is concerned because we have shown that China has caused irreparable harm to the coral reef system in seven reefs and destroyed their natural condition... We have different views of how much the damage is. The important thing is we should collate all of these,” he said.

By Rio N. Araja

A WEEK before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) and the resumption of sessions, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Sunday assured that the House of

Representatives is committed to passing the 2025 national budget. At the same time, the House will also be addressing the remaining Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council priority bills and possible additional key SONA measures.

THE ‘Young Guns’ bloc of the House of Representatives called for an investigation into the reported manufacturing of fake birth certificates in Davao del Sur that allegedly serves the interests of Chinese nationals. In a statement on Sunday, the group stressed that “there must be no fake Filipinos.” They expressed outrage over a report from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) about an office churning out fake birth certificates for Chinese nationals that sprouted in a Davao del Sur town.

By Othel V. Campos

Trump...

From A1

the gunman, who was shot dead, as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, according to a statement cited by US media early Sunday. His motive remains unknown.

The US Secret Service said earlier that Crooks, reportedly a registered Republican, "fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside the rally" before being "neutralized" by agents.

A video published by US outlet TMZ shows the alleged assailant lying on his belly on a sloping rooftop and aiming a rifle. A quick succession of gunshots is heard followed by screams from off-camera Trump supporters attending the rally.

"The guy has longer brown hair... and as you can see, he's carefully trying (to) pinpoint a target from afar before pulling the trigger," TMZ reported. Crooks lived about 40 miles (65 kilometers) from the rally venue.

The FBI confirmed in a press conference that the shooting was being treated as "an assassination attempt against our former president, Donald Trump."

The shooter was believed to be working alone.

His father Matthew Crooks told CNN that he was trying to establish "what the hell is going on," and would not comment until he spoke to law enforcement.

After multiple witnesses said they

Gatchalian...

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"As for me, this is one of biggest angles of this criminality—money laundering," he said.

While the Philippines has a system in place to immediately detect suspicious financial transactions entering several banks, Gatchalian lamented its lack of enforcement and compliance. He said the Senate intends to look into this matter as well in their ongoing investigation.

"I saw the compliance (of these Philippine banks) in their head offices. I saw this as a problem. We should also look into the process," the senator said. “This is also an eye opener.” Gatchalian is actively investigating the POGO issue and its alleged

‘Young...

From A1

Consequently, the lawmakers called for a congressional inquiry into the NBI’s discovery that almost 200 fake birth certificates were issued to Chinese nationals by the local civil registry of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian had first raised the alarm on the racket which he said has produced “200 Alice Guos” – a term he used to describe Chinese nationals who have obtained falsified birth certificates in Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur between 2018 and 2019.

The syndicate can provide a foreign national with PH birth certificates, passport, driver’s license and other gov’t IDs for P300,000. Gatchalian didn’t say P300k for each.

"Syndicates may be behind the proliferation of fake birth certificates as well as the apparent abuse of the late birth registration system," said Gatchalian, who filed Senate Resolution 1053 seeking an investigation on the illegal practice.

He said the racket was discovered after a Chinese national attempted to apply for a Philippine passport, but could not speak Tagalog when he was interviewed by Department of Foreign Affairs personnel.

House...

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"The House is ready to take swift and decisive action to ensure these legislative priorities are met, paving the way for sustained development and progress under the administration of President Marcos," he said.

The House Speaker stated that the Congress is awaiting the executive branch's proposed P6.352-trillion National Expenditure Program to form the basis for the 2025 General Appropriations Bill, and is eyeing to pass it before the end of September. He cited that the swift and timely passage of next year’s national budget is a top priority.

"The 2025 national budget is essential for sustaining our nation’s growth and addressing the immediate needs of our citizens, and the House is ready to ensure

saw the gunman before the shooting and alerted authorities, Butler police said they had "responded to a number of reports of suspicious activity."

Multiple bangs rang out

Trump, wearing a red "Make America Great Again" cap, had just started speaking at his final rally before the Republican National Convention when multiple bangs rang out.

He grimaced and clutched his ear, with blood visible on his ear and cheek, then ducked to the floor as Secret Service agents swarmed onto the podium, surrounding him and escorting him roughly off the stage to a nearby vehicle.

"It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country," Trump said on his Truth Social network hours later, in remarks sure to stoke the political hostility already engulfing the United States.

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin," Trump said.

"Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening."

He later could be seen walking unaided from his plane, though his wounded ear was not facing the camera in video footage posted by his deputy communications director. The New York Times reported that he was staying the night in New Jersey.

Police confirmed that a spectator was killed and two critically injured in the shooting, all of them male adults.

World leaders expressed outrage China's Xi Jinping expressed

ties to Guo, alongside Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality.

He said he will file a separate resolution to conduct a Senate hearing to determine whether there was collusion between banks and the POGO players to engage in money laundering activities. "I will personally look at this angle," Gatchalian said.

Meanwhile Gatchalian called on Mayor Guo to yield to authorities. "She just should voluntarily surrender," said Gatchalian.

Teams from the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) and Philippine National Police which included SWAT operatives failed to locate the mayor in her given address at QJJ farm in Bamban last Saturday.

Hengson Lemosnero, originally identified by the National Bureau of Investigation as Hanlin Qiu, was apprehended last Tuesday at the DFA office in Davao City.

The arrest followed reports from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), which flagged the suspect's documents as “questionable” during the application process at their office inside a local mall.

NBI-11 Director, Atty. Arcelito Albao said the suspect has been residing in Davao City for ten years. But the suspect could not speak or understand any Filipino language even though the suspect's authenticated birth certificate from the Local Civil Registrar of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, bore a Filipino name, he added.

Albao further noted that the birth certificate in question was a late registration filed in 2013 in the National Capital Region (NCR).

He also noted discrepancies in the suspect’s account during DFA interviews. However, he emphasized that the investigation has nothing to do with the illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO).

The Bureau of Immigration has said the rising number of foreigners with falsified Philippine documents is a “national security concern”.

its swift approval to support our development and progress," he emphasized.

The 2025 national budget, which represents a 10-percent increase from this year’s P5.768-trillion allocation, is equivalent to 22 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.

“We are ready and determined to work hard to pass the 2025 GAB before we go on break at the end of September. We will ensure the timely transmission of the spending bill to the Senate for their consideration as well,” Romualdez affirmed.

"We are fully committed to passing all the bills that President Marcos will possibly outline in his SONA. The House is ready and determined to work diligently to ensure these critical measures are enacted swiftly to support our nation's progress and development,” the Speaker continued.

In his upcoming SONA, the President is expected to outline key legislative measures aimed at addressing the

his "compassion and sympathy" for Trump, with a foreign ministry spokesman saying Beijing was "closely following" the incident.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was "deeply concerned by the attack on my friend."

"Violence has no place in politics and democracies," said Modi.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also spoke out against political attacks, saying "we must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy."

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te offered his "sincere condolences" to the shooting victims.

"Political violence of any form is never acceptable in our democracies," he said.

In Europe, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was "deeply shocked" by the attack.

"Political violence has no place in a democracy," she said.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called the shooting "despicable" and said "such acts of violence threaten democracy."

In neighboring France, President Emmanuel Macron called the assassination a "tragedy for our democracies."

"France shares the shock and indignation of the American people," said Macron.

Russia called on the United States to "take stock" of its "policies of incitement to hatred," while using the assassination attempt to denounce Washington's military support for Ukraine.

The contingent forces from the OSAA and the police were armed with an arrest order signed by Senate President Francis Escudero.

The arrest order was issued upon the request of Sen. Risa Hontiveros, chairperson of the Senate committee on women, children, family relations and gender equality, which has been conducting an investigation into the illicit operations in the country of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Guo was ordered arrested “for unduly refusing to appear, despite due notices,” at the Senate hearing on reports human trafficking, torture, serious illegal detention and other serious crimes committed at POGO hubs.

The arresting officers composed of Teams Marilao and Valenzuela did not succeed in getting Guo's sib -

“We have expressed this concern for some time. We view this as a national security concern because we have not arrested only one in the past. In the recent years,we have arrested 10 and last week we found three foreign nationals with Philippine documents,” Immigration spokesperson Dana Sandoval.Sandoval said in an interview with DZBB.

“We must understand that a birth certificate is more than just a document. It symbolizes a Filipino's connection to their country. It is the first official document that every Filipino receives as their birthright, establishing their official tie to the nation,” said Davao Oriental Rep. Cheeno Miguel Almario.

“This is not something that can be easily given, fabricated, milled or bought. Sa madaling salita (In short), the Filipinos are not for sale. Dapat walang pekeng Pilipino (There must be no fake Filipino),” he underscored.

Almario said there is a “need to strengthen our legislative framework to ensure rigorous verification processes are in place for the issuance of birth certificates,” including “enhancing the capabilities of local civil registries, implementing more robust checks and balances, and imposing severe penalties on those found guilty of facilitating such fraud.”

“What is even more infuriating and

country’s most urgent issues and driving its growth agenda.

These SONA measures, according to Romualdez, are crucial for addressing the country’s immediate needs and promoting sustainable development.

“We will work closely with the executive branch to ensure their swift and successful passage,” he added.

“We are committed to completing the legislative agenda by passing these crucial measures. They are vital for our nation’s progress and prosperity, and we will ensure they are enacted swiftly and effectively,” he continued.

Since the start of the 19th Congress in July 2022, the House has shown impressive legislative output, he noted.

“The House has diligently prioritized LEDAC bills, leading to substantial progress, with over 12,000 measures filed and 75 bills enacted into law," he shared.

The robust legislative activity “un-

"Perhaps it would be better to use this money to fund the American police and other services that are supposed to ensure law and order in the United States?" said foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was "appalled to learn about the shooting" and wished Trump a "speedy recovery."

"Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail," he said.

Biden cut short a weekend trip to his Delaware beach house to return to Washington. He will receive an updated briefing from security officials on Sunday morning, the White House said.

The attack has already stoked political tensions, with some Republicans pointing the finger at Biden and rightwing conspiracy theories flooding social media.

Possible Trump vice presidential pick J.D. Vance said Biden's "rhetoric" had "led directly" to the Trump attack.

Trump's campaign said he would still attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, after he was reported to have had a precautionary hospital checkup.

Screams and panic

But the convention will now be dominated by the shooting at the rally, which descended into panic, with screams ringing out after the gunshots.

"Let me get my shoes," Trump was heard saying on the microphone, as security agents helped him back to his feet. AFP with Vince Lopez

lings- Shiela, Wesley and Siemen and their parents Jian Zhong Guo and Wen Yi Lin (both reportedlt in China) They were ordered arrested for their refusal to attend the hearings on their alleged links to POGO crimes. Arresting officers however got Nancy Gamo, the accountant of the suspended mayor.

As this developed. Presidential Anti Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Executive Director Gilbert Cruz expressed confidence that cases against Mayor Guo will prosper, citing the "strong" set of evidence they have obtained. He told ABNS-CBN that the Commission is eyeing to file forfeiture cases against illegal POGOs which would allow the government to use properties of the illegal companies.

sad about this is that the Chinese nationals who were issued fake birth certificates may have links to criminal and drug syndicates," Zambales Rep. Jefferson Khonghun noted.

“They probably also found the easiest route to secure spurious documents to conceal their true identities and citizenship to continue their nefarious activities here in the country. Congress needs to investigate this," Khonghun added.

Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, for his part, said he would like to know if these Chinese nationals had a backer that emboldened them to “make a mockery of the sanctity of the country’s birth certificate,” calling it an “affront to our national security and sovereignty.”

He noted that this practice is “unacceptable, emphasizing that “the issuance of falsified birth certificates to foreign nationals compromises the integrity of our civil registration system, undermines the trust of the Filipino people, and poses a significant threat to national security.”

La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega echoed these sentiments, noting that Chinese infiltrators with falsified Philippine birth certificates “could potentially exploit their newfound status to engage in activities detrimental to

derscores our commitment to addressing the diverse needs of our nation.”

From July 2022 to June 2024, 12,405 measures were filed, including 10,565 bills, 1,839 resolutions and one petition.

During the same period, 1,123 committee reports were filed and 75 bills were enacted into law, comprising 30 national and 45 local measures.

Romualdez reaffirmed the House's commitment to passing the remaining three of the 28 LEDAC bills targeted for approval before the end of the 19th Congress — the amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, Agrarian Reform Law and Foreign Investors’ Long-Term Lease Act.

The amendments to the Agrarian Reform Law and the Foreign Investors’ Long-Term Lease Act are also among the five new priority bills identified during the recent full LEDAC meeting, which Speaker Romualdez vowed the House will advance.

The USDA forecasts rice imports for the entire marketing year (2024/25) to remain flat at around 4 million MT, with continued diversification expected.

FAS noted that the diversification of sources offers a proactive approach to ensuring food security amidst rising global food prices. The shift comes as Vietnam, the country's traditional top supplier, faces rising prices and tighter rice export quotas.

Rising global food prices and potential supply chain disruptions have prompted Vietnam to implement stricter export controls, leading to higher prices for the Philippines.

The USDA report also covers other key grains for the Philippines. Corn production is expected to decline slightly to 8.4 million MT due to recent typhoons and the presence of the fall armyworm pest. The shortfall will likely be addressed through increased imports, with forecasts reaching 1 million MT for corn in MY 2024/25. Wheat imports are expected to remain steady at around 5.9 million MT.

The USDA report highlighted Philippines government efforts to boost domestic production through increased spending on inputs and machinery.

PH Navy... From A1

Jardeleza explained that for 17 years before the 2016 arbitral award, the Philippines relied on diplomatic protests. He pointed out that the initial case did not include claims for environmental damages. With Rachelle Tonelada

our country, including espionage, economic sabotage and other criminal enterprises.”

“The ramifications of such actions are far-reaching and could compromise our national defense, economy and public safety,” Ortega said.

Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Raul Angelo Bongalon, meanwhile, said “it raises serious questions about the safeguards in place within our local civil registries and highlights the urgent need for stricter oversight and accountability measures.”

“The procurement of valid birth certificates must be fortified to prevent any exploitation by foreign infiltrators. Birth certificates are foundational documents that grant access to a range of rights and privileges, including citizenship, education and employment,” Bongalon stressed.

Isabela Rep. Faustino Dy V also said the House of Representatives must “act decisively to address this issue” because “this is a grave matter that demands immediate and resolute action.”

“We owe it to the Filipino people to protect the sanctity of our civil registration system and safeguard our national security. Let this be a rallying call for vigilance, integrity and unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and sovereignty,” said Dy.

The other three priorities—the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, Reforms to the Philippine Capital Markets, and Amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law — have all been approved by the House on third and final reading.

“Our focus on these new LEDAC measures demonstrates our unwavering commitment to enacting laws that drive national progress," the Speaker said.

He expressed his anticipation of a more vibrant collaboration with the Senate under the leadership of Senate President Francis Escudero.

“I look forward to a robust partnership with the Senate, led by Senate President Escudero. Together, we can achieve significant legislative milestones that will profoundly benefit our nation,” he remarked.

“This collaboration is vital to ensuring our legislative efforts are cohesive and effective in addressing the pressing needs of our people.”

Rep. Jay-Jay Suarez: Championing Progress in Quezon Province

A

By Patricia Taculao-Deligero

QUEZON Province’s Second Congressional District, with Lucena as its vibrant center, thrives under the dedicated leadership of Rep. David “Jayj-jay” C. Suarez. Known for his passion and commitment to public service, Rep. Suarez has made significant strides in improving the lives of his constituents.

From Education to Governance

Rep. Suarez’s journey began with a degree in politics, philosophy, and economics from the University of Asia and the Pacific. His education continued with public management at the University of the Philippines Diliman, and his public administration training at the International Academy for Leadership in Germany, setting the stage for a career devoted to public service.

His public service career took off as a municipal councilor, and quickly advanced through various significant roles, including

Vice Governor and Governor of Quezon. His leadership earned the province the prestigious Seal of Good Local Governance and recognition as the Most Outstanding Governor in the Philippines in 2017.

Legislative Achievements

As a legislator, during his first term, Rep. Suarez has been instrumental in passing crucial laws such as the Malasakit Centers Act and COVID-19 response measures. In the current 19th Congress, he also authored the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, alleviating a significant debt burden for agrarian reform beneficiaries. Among others, Rep. Suarez has also authored significant laws such as the Internet Transactions Act, Reforms in Real Property Valuation, the institutionalization of the “One Town, One Product” program, the amendment to the Centenarians’ Act, and the revitalization of the Salt Industry Act. With over 194 bills authored and co-authored, his legislative work speaks volumes about his dedication to diverse issues affecting not just the district, but the nation at large.

The Coffee Belt Road: A Boost for Quezon’s

By Peter Paul Duran

QUEZON Province’s 2nd District, under the leadership of Deputy Speaker Rep. David “Jay-Jay” C. Suarez, is a testament to agricultural innovation and cultural richness.

Comprising of Quezon Province’s largest and capital city Lucena as well as the municipalities of Candelaria, Sariaya, and Dolores — the district is at the heart of the province’s Coffee Belt Road—a key project aimed at revitalizing the local coffee industry and enhancing infrastructure.

Revitalizing the Coffee Industry

The Coffee Belt Road, initiated in 2022, is a transformative project that spans nearly 15 kilometers, with a budget of approximately P820 million. This farm-to-market road network is designed to facilitate the efficient transport of coffee from the farms around Mt. Banahaw to the markets in the town proper of Sariaya, Candelaria, and Dolores. This infrastructure development is not only a boon for coffee farmers but also a significant step towards recognizing Quezon’s coffee as a premier product of the region.

Empowering Farmers

Historically, much of the coffee grown in the region was processed in Batangas, which often meant that Quezon’s contribution to the coffee industry went unrecognized. Addressing this, the ALONA Partylist, led by Rep. Anna Villaraza-Suarez, established a Coffee Processing Center in Brgy. Masalukot IV, Candelaria. Candelaria’s new Coffee Processing Center cuts out middlemen, reducing costs and increasing profits for local farmers. This initiative ensures Quezon’s coffee gains

recognition, empowering local growers.

Boosting Tourism and Culture

Advocacy and Community Impact

Rep. Suarez’s advocacies extend beyond legislation. As a Deputy Speaker and vice-chair of the Appropriations Committee, he champions various sectors, including women, senior citizens, and educators. His efforts have led to increased salaries for public school teachers and continuous support for marginalized groups.

The district representative remains a dedicated public servant known for advocating efficient local government administration, energy conservation, agricultural development, public health, and maternal and childhood development. He has demonstrated an unending commitment to excellence and good governance. Inspiring Leadership Moreover, Rep. Suarez doesn’t shy away from the spotlight and calls out other public servants to remain honest and passionate about their leadership. Known for his bold stance on good governance, Rep. Suarez inspires fellow public servants to lead with integrity and passion. His unwavering commitment to public service continues to drive progress and development in Quezon Province, proving that dedicated leadership can indeed transform communities.

Agriculture

The Coffee Belt Road also promotes tourism by improving access to the picturesque landscapes and cultural heritage sites in Sariaya and Dolores. This dual focus on agriculture and tourism showcases the district’s commitment to holistic development.

Addressing Challenges

Despite its potential, the coffee industry faces challenges such as low productivity and profit margins. Strategies under the Suarezes’ leadership include rejuvenating aging coffee trees, expanding production areas, and improving market access. These initiatives aim to enhance profitability and sustainability in coffee farming.

Enhancing Tourism and Culture

Under Rep. Suarez’s visionary leadership, the Coffee Belt Road exemplifies how infrastructure can drive agricultural innovation and economic growth, making Quezon Province’s Second District a model of progress and development. The focus is not only on increasing coffee production, but also on ensuring sustainable and quality coffee farming practices. The comprehensive programs— from coffee rehabilitation and area expansion to marketing and infrastructure support—highlight the district’s commitment to excellence in agriculture.

Quezon Province’s 2nd District, through the Coffee Belt Road, exemplifies how infrastructure development can drive agricultural innovation and economic growth. This initiative not only supports local farmers but also enhances the region’s cultural and natural appeal, contributing significantly to the vision of Bagong Pilipinas.

Taste of Quezon: Chami, Longganisa, and Pinagong in Bagong Pilipinas

IN THE vibrant heart of Quezon Province, the culinary delights of pansit chami, longganisa, and pinagong shine as symbols of heritage and community. A visit to any of Lucena’s bustling markets and eateries will reveal an air filled with the tantalizing aromas of these local favorites.

One can start the day with a bowl of chami, a dish synonymous with Lucena. Chami is a noodle dish, thick and chewy, stir-fried with an assortment of vegetables, pork, and sometimes shrimp, all bathed in a savory sauce. Seasoned cooks proudly share how their recipes have been family traditions for generations, embodying the spirit of resilience and continuity that Bagong Pilipinas champions.

Another indulgence is Quezon’s distinctive longganisa lucban, a garlicky, slightly sweet sausage. Prepared with a time-honored family recipe, this dish represents the hardworking spirit and dedication of Quezonians. In one afternoon, a traveler can savor pinagong, a turtle-shaped bread that symbolizes community and togetherness. Fresh from the oven, its soft, sweet taste is a reminder of the close-knit ties that bind the people of Quezon Province, echoing the vision of unity and progress in Bagong Pilipinas. These culinary treasures are more than just food; they are stories of heritage, pride, and the simple joys of life in Quezon Province. They are a testament to Quezon’s rich culture, and the hopeful future of Bagong Pilipinas.

Rep. Anna Marie Villaraza-Suarez ALONA Party List

RAA to make Army more formidable IN BRIEF

Over 16k former rebels reintegrated by gov’t

A TOTAL of 16,551 former members and supporters of the New People’s Army (NPA) who abandoned the terror organization have benefitted this year from the government’s comprehensive reintegration program.

In its first semester report for 2024, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTFELCAC) said the beneficiaries are from different geographIcally-isolated and disadvantaged areas comprising 6,945 recipients of livelihood projects and 9,606 former rebels who benefitted from reintegration assistance.

National Security Adviser and concurrent NTF-ELCAC co-vice chair Secretary Eduardo Año credited the aggressive implementation of the government’s whole-of-nation/whole-ofgovernment approach in putting an end to the decades-long armed struggle.

“Through the unimpeded provision of the Support to Barangay Development Program (SBDP), which in total has assisted 864 barangays in this year alone, we have relentlessly delivered the necessary skills and development and assistance programs to conflict-affected communities,” Año said in a news release.

Tulfo: Protect seniors, PWDs from scams

HOUSE Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo announced that he will file a measure to better protect senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWD) against scammers and syndicates.

The bill, titled, “An Act Protecting the Integrity of the Electronic Transactions of Senior Citizens and PWDs,” aims to provide robust protection for senior citizens and PWD by clearly defining and penalizing internet and telecommunications fraud targeting them.

The bill would not only safeguard unsuspecting senior citizens and PWD’s financial assets but also make them confident in using digital platforms for communication and transactions, Tulfo said.

Parañaque cops arrest armed drug trafficker

THE Parañaque City Police Station Drug Enforcement Unit on Saturday evening executed a search warrant in Barangay Baclaran Parañaque City resulting in the arrest of alleged drug trafficker Alias “Buboy.” During the operation, authorities confiscated three heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing white crystalline substance suspected to be “shabu” (methamphetamine hydrochloride) and a loaded .38 revolver without serial number.

The confiscated illegal drugs have an estimated combined weight of approximately 25 grams and a Standard Drug Price value of PHP170,000.

12-hour aircon shutdown at NAIA 3 scheduled

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

ABOUT 27,000 arriving and departing passengers aboard 117 flights at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 (NAIA 3) are expected to be inconvenienced by reduced air circulation during a 12-hour air conditioning interruption that will begin at 9:00 pm on July 16 to 9:00 am the following day.

MIAA General Manager Eric Jose Ines sought understanding and cooperation from all airport users during the temporary shutdown.

It was explained that during the 12 hours, new cooling tower piping will be connected to the chiller plant’s main piping lines as part of upgrades

to the airport’s cooling system.

“The upgrades are intended to bolster the terminal’s capability to maintain ideal temperatures efficiently thereby ensuring a more pleasant experience for all airport users,” said Ines.

Early this year, MIAA invested in new cooling towers that will be strategically installed to optimize piping infrastructure to significantly improve the overall system efficiency of the air-conditioning system in Terminal 3.

The final step in installing these six (6) new cooling towers is set during the scheduled interruption.

During this period, only the fans and blowers of the air conditioning

CELEBRATING SHOEMAKERS. A motorized giant shoe is on display at the entrance of Marikina Freedom Park where the Balik Eskwela Shoe Bazaar will be open to the public until August 18. The bazaar was organized by the local government to drumup support for the city’s shoe-making industry. Manny Palmero

units will operate to enable air circulation in various areas.

The felt temperature may not also reach optimal comfort levels at said time.

Areas to be affected include checkin counters, immigration departure, final security checks for domestic and international flights, baggage carousels for international and domestic arrivals, and the arrival lobby

To mitigate passenger discomfort, stand-alone air conditioning units will be deployed in various parts of the terminal for spot cooling.

By Rex Espiritu

THE Philippine Army (PA) leadership expressed confidence that signing a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between Manila and Tokyo will help hone local troops into a more formidable force.

“Definitely through bilateral exercises, we will be able to enhance the Army’s capabilities,” Philippine Army Spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala told Manila Standard. However, Dema-ala said that how the joint exercises will be conducted has yet to be determined as the agreement first needs to be ratified by the legislative branches of both nations.

“We cannot say at the what the (Philippine) Army’s participation in the envisioned joint exercises will be until it (RAA) is ratified by the Japanese and Philippine legislatures,” he explained in Filipino.

The Army spokesperson also noted that RAA’s the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) must also draw up implementing rules and regulations (IRR) before conducting the exercises.

“As to the equipment deployment, it will still depend on the final agreement. We cannot say (what military equipment will be used in the war games) until an agreement is reached,” he added.

Dema-ala said that RAA is not only intended to enhance the AFP’s capabilities but also the JSDF’s capabilities to interoperate with allies, provide humanitarian assistance, and repel cyber threats.

The RAA, which was signed in Manila last week, would allow Filipino and Japanese troops to operate and train in either country following the 2nd Japan-Philippines Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting.

According to Dema-ala, Philippine Army troops are composed of more or less 120,000 personnel.

President set to inaugurate critical irrigation project in Iloilo

ILOILO – President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is set to lead the inauguration of the Jalaur Multi-purpose Project in Calinog on July 16, marking a significant milestone in the region’s development. Top government officials, including Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr., National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Administrator Eduardo Eddie Guillen, Special Assistant to the President Secretary Antonio Lagdameo, Jr., Presidential Communication Office Secretary Cheloy Velicaria-Gerafil, and Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr., are also expected to attend, alongside other provincial and local officials.

NIA Western Visayas Focal Person Steve Cordero announced that the project’s physical completion has reached 75.51%, with three major dams—the Jalaur High Dam, Jalaur Afterbay Dam, and Alibunan Catchment Dam—already finished. Cordero further mentioned that the Jalaur Dam has accumulated enough

The terminal’s air conditioning system is expected to operate at higher efficiency once the new cooling towers are fully integrated, Ines said. VP’s

‘Designated Survivor’ quip triggers questions on succession

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

VICE President Sara Duterte’s recent soundbite that she appointed herself as the ‘designated survivor’ has kept the political conversation going with past and present senators weighing heavily on the importance of having a clearly defined law of succession in worst-case scenarios. On Sunday, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III issued a statement hoping that his proposed Senate Bill

the event a disaster renders all top government officials incapacitated. Under the current Philippine political setup, the Top 5 government officials are the following: President, Vice President, Senate President, House Speaker, Supreme Court Chief Justice. There is no clear line of succession beyond them, which is what Pimentel is trying to address.

“There needs to be a law. That’s why I have a proposed law to address that scenario,” explained Pimentel.

Former Senator Panfilo Lacson attempted to do just that during his tenure in 2019. He is hoping his Senate Bill No. 982, or the Act Prescribing the Order of Presidential Succession—referred to in the media as the ‘Designated Survivor’ Bill—can be refiled and passed by the current Congress.

water to meet minimum operational requirements.

The construction of the irrigation components, including the canals, is ongoing to ensure the Mega Dam’s full functionality.

The Jalaur River Multi-purpose Project Phase II (JRMP II) is anticipated to be fully operational by 2025.

According to NIA Western Visayas, JRMP II will boost rice production in Iloilo Province by 71.54%, translating to an annual increase of 338,874 metric tons. The project will benefit 25,000 farmers across 23 municipalities in the province. Additionally, JRMP II will support the water supply needs of Iloilo City and the province through its hydroelectric power components, which can provide one cubic meter per second or 86,400 liters of water per day and generate 6.6 megawatts of clean renewable energy. The Jalaur River Multi-purpose Project is the largest dam constructed outside Luzon.

DELUGE. Several neighborhoods in Pagalungan, Maguindanao del Sur were submerged due to unrelenting mansoon rains. The government has offered material assistance to displaced residents. Fhadzz Abdul

HELPING HAND. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Sec. Rex Gatchalian is joined by Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Sec. Anton Lagdameo in the distribution of cash aid and relief goods to residents of Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte on Sunday. Families affected by heavy monsoon rains were the beneficiaries of the material assistance under the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.

OPINION

Humorless ‘sipsips’

WHEN Inday Sara’s quip about appointing herself as the “designated survivor” came out, I laughed and thought “pilya talaga ito.”

The “sutil” daughter of the former president was being playful with what could probably be likened to a slice of wry British humor, using a popular Netflix series as point of reference. Yet she did not go to Oxford or Cambridge, and finished law only at “Baste,” that monicker for San Sebastian College in Quiapo run by the Recoletos.

The forever serious Ping Lacson saw through, and described the VP’s one-liner as “rhetorical, a good soundbite.” SP Chiz would “not give any special or deeper meaning” to the quip either.

Ah, but not the pork-addicted members of the HoR, who lined up trying to dig some “profound” meaning into a playful quip. No sense of humor, gentlemen?

Is it because the kind of jokes they are used to is confined to Vice Ganda and, in younger days, to Dolphy and Panchito’s slapstick? Have they ever laughed at Alex Calleja’s attempts at elevating Filipino humor?

Or is it perhaps a lingering fear that if something should happen, God forbid, to our president, and Inday Sara, by Constitutional fiat and not by Neflix creation, would rule over them from the palace beside the not-so-stinking river?

Worried much?

And by the way, Inday Sara’s decision not to attend SONA 2024 is no different from then VP Doy Laurel’s not attending the third SONA of then President Cory. Laurel gave no public reason, other than a private remark he did not want to be a hypocrite, as their relationship had publicly soured by then, not dissimilar to the state of relations between today’s president and vice president. Then again, the current HoR secretariat rules out “protest” attires the thinning progressives among its members displayed in previous SONAs, stressing an exclusivist sense of decorum, while it allocates P20 million of the people’s money for the grand SONA to cover meals, renovation and other accoutrements, which the Kabataan partylist member labelled “insensitive” as it could pay for “400,000 kilograms of rice.”

Ikaw naman, Raoul. 400,000 kilos times 20 pesos is only P8 million, following that fixation over 20 as a magic number, be it for rice or for renovating the Batasan. Why multiply 400,000 by P50, which is the real price in the market? Are you trying to inject sarcasm, satire even, just like the vice president you dislike?

Meanwhile, the secretary-general of the HoR warns Raoul Manuel and his cohorts not to use the SONA as a forum for their incessant protests, flatly declaring “This is not the place or time to express anything.” Anything, really?

He follows this ex-cathedra declaration with a threat: “If you don’t follow, you’ll be arrested and detained in our detention center.”

So guys and gals of the HoR, wear your designer outfits costing hundreds of thousands per, as you sashay into the “hallowed” halls of the Batasan to listen to our President deliver his State of the Nation Address next Monday, and follow the “tradition” of tasteless and insensitive extravaganzas of the high and mighty.

But let’s get back to a bit of history, recalling this was the same venue where the Senior was proclaimed by then Speaker Nicanor Yniguez as the duly elected president after the “snap elections” of 1986. Weeks after, EDSA happened.

Not that it will happen this time.

What we proudly called our “People Power” bloodless revolt was actually preceded by the April 25, 1974 event in the other hemisphere, in Portugal to be exact.

—“—

And by the way, Inday Sara’s decision not to attend SONA 2024 is no different from then VP Doy Laurel’s not attending the third SONA of then President Cory

It was a military coup against the dictator who ruled over the Estado Novo (sounds similar to New Society and Bagong Pilipinas?) for close to 50 years, and where the leaders, first Salazar and then Caetano were eventually ousted, with the populace cheered by the public who then placed carnations (flowers, not the milk brand) on the muzzles of the soldiers’ rifles.

The revolt was bloodless and, after a few years of transition, democracy was unveiled, this time a true revolution where the forms of democracy such as elections and balance of power ushered in a democracy of substance where equal opportunity and progress transpired into what is now modern Portugal.

History calls it the Carnation Revolution, perhaps the accidental template, almost 12 years after, of our EDSA Uno.

But in Portugal, bloodless uprising turned into a true revolution while our “people power” in 1986 has not given power to our people, but reverted us over 38 years back into a feudal society where dynasts and oligarchs rule over teeming millions of the poor and the hungry.

International condemnation of Chinese aggression in the WPS

ON THE 8th anniversary of the historic arbitral award, the Philippines firmly asserts its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic rights in the West Philippine Sea. This assertiveness is not a solo endeavor; it stands bolstered by the unwavering support of like-minded states who equally value and are committed to uphold international law and the rules-based order. At least 26 countries, through their ambassadors and representatives, gathered on Friday at the largest West Philippine Sea conference of 2024, organized by the Stratbase Institute.

This monumental event saw global and regional powers, including the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, and France, reaffirming their support for the 2016 arbitral award.

Also present were ambassadors from Austria, Bangladesh, the European Union, Germany, Greece, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Romania, and Vietnam, alongside representatives from Brunei, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The collective emphasis was on adhering to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and highlighting the destabilizing actions of China in the region.

US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson emphasized the significance of the arbitral ruling for the broader Indo-Pacific region. She highlighted the strong and growing alliance between the Philippines and the United States and condemned China’s aggressive actions. She declared “The arbitral award is a linchpin in the Philippines’ national security vision, and the United States steadfastly supports it. Our alliance grows stronger by the day through 500 joint exercises and other engagements every single year.”

Australia’s Ambassador Hae Kyong “HK” Yu PSM underscored the collective obligation to adhere to international law, particularly UNCLOS, and emphasized that maritime security requires joint efforts from all nations.

“The situation we are facing eight years since the tribunal’s clear and unanimous decisions shows us that there is still such a strong need for all of us to continue to underline the importance of adhering to our obligations under international law,” HK Yu said.

We must persistently assert our country’s rights, not only to protect our national security but also as a responsible country committed to sustaining regional stability and the rulesbased international order

Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya commended the Philippines’ efforts that paved the way for this historic arbitral award and reiterated it is final and legally binding.

“Our presence here today is a powerful reminder of our unwavering commitment to cooperation and the strength of our unified alliance. We need to envision a future where the seas serve as a bridge that unites rather

Wasted effort: Flawed

PNP reform bill

WHY did President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. veto the proposed law reorganizing the Philippine National Police?

For more than one good reason, but in the end, because it runs counter to his administration’s policies and objectives.

What did the Chief Executive want the proposed law to achieve?

That it would deliver much-needed-reforms; comply with civil service laws, salary standardization policies, and base pay schedules; and conform to budgetary rules.

That’s not all.

The proposed law should be supportive of the policies and programs of not just the present but future administrations as well, including national government rightsizing.

The measure seeks to amend Republic Act 8551, or the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998, and RA 6975, or the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990.

It was approved by the bicameral conference committee that reconciled the discordant provisions of House Bill 8327 and Senate Bill 2249 on PNP restructuring that Congress ratified in March this year.

The President cited specific provisions in the proposed law he wanted legislators to remedy.

One, the possible distortion in pay scales because of a provision that would substan-

tially raise the salary of Philippine National Police Academy cadets to the point of exceeding that of a police lieutenant.

The grant of Salary Grade 21 to PNPA cadets would distort the base pay schedule of military and uniformed personnel by creating disparity among several government cadetship programs.

Our senators and congressmen should now go back to the drawing boards and write a bill that will allow the PNP to more efficiently perform its basic mission ‘to serve and protect’

Two, the Chief Executive took a dim view of the proposal to create several offices, such as the directorial staff, area commands, special offices, and support units, but did not consider their functional relationships or clarify reporting lines.

He emphasized that different offices performing the same or related functions, all headed by high-ranking officials, will definitely be counterproductive and will defeat the purpose of enhancing the span of supervision and administrative control of the PNP chief.

Three, the President described as “plainly

THE Court of Appeals has issued a freeze order on all bank accounts and assets of Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, due to her alleged involvement with illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO).

This ruling stems from a petition filed by the Anti-Money Laundering Council, citing probable cause the assets and accounts were linked to unlawful activities.

Alice Guo’s involvement with POGOs and the subsequent legal actions against her have unveiled a complex web of alleged criminal activities, ranging from human trafficking to large-scale money laundering.

The freeze order affects 90 bank accounts, 12 properties, and 13 vehicles, including a P60 million Robinsons helicopter.

The scope of the investigation highlights the massive financial operations purportedly connected to Guo and her associates through multiple companies, including Baofu Land Development Inc., Zun Yuan Technology Inc., and Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc.

The controversy gained traction following the raid of Hongsheng Gaming Technology in 2023, which led to the discovery of human trafficking and serious illegal detention linked to the operations. Despite the closure of Hongsheng, Zun Yuan quickly replaced it, only to be shut down in 2024 under similar accusations.

The involvement of Guo in these operations has brought to light not just her alleged criminal activities but also the broader implications of POGO operations in the Philippines.

This case echoes several sensational international money laundering and human trafficking cases.

For instance, the 1MDB scandal in Malaysia involved billions of dollars laundered through a complex network of shell companies and bank accounts, much like the alleged operations of Guo and her cohorts.

than divides us,” Kazuya said.

Canadian Ambassador David Hartman likewise condemned China’s aggressive actions and stressed the importance of freedom of navigation and upholding the rule of law.

Amidst the unprecedented rise in security threats in the Indo-Pacific region, Hartman committed that, “Canada will continue to work with the Philippines and our allies to provide meaningful support to regional peace and security and uphold the rule of law in the maritime domain.”

French Ambassador Marie Fontanel recognized the arbitral award as a significant reinforcement of the rules-based international order.

She reaffirmed “The 2016 Arbitral Award sends a powerful message to the world. Our partnership with the Philippines, based on democracy, rule of law, and multilateralism, is stronger than ever.”

Stratbase Institute President Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit proposed to rein-

unwarranted” the provision creating two separate PNP liaison offices, each headed by a police brigadier general.

One of these, the Liaison Office for the Office of the President, could pose security and confidentiality risks to the OP, while the other, the Liaison Office for the Department of the Interior and Local Government, could insulate the PNP chief from the DILG secretary. Four, the measure should ensure independence and impartiality in appointing members of the PNP’s Legal Service Unit or the Internal Affairs Service.

At present, its inspector general is a civilian but its deputy inspector general and regional internal affairs officer are both starranked generals.

Five, the bill as written could lead to the possible encroachment by Napolcom into the the Civil Service Commission’s functions.

The measure was also not clear about the administrative relationships among the CSC, DILG and PNP, including those relating to disciplinary actions, he said.

Six, the bill’s provision on the retroactive application of rights and benefits due to appointments, promotions, or resignations is “ambiguous and vague.”

The President urged lawmakers to instead craft a bill to implement genuine transformation reforms that will allow the PNP to be more effective and efficient in the performance of its mandate to maintain peace and order, protect lives, and ensure public safety.”

In short, our senators and congressmen should now go back to the drawing boards and write a bill that will allow the PNP to more efficiently perform its basic mission “to serve and protect.”

The court’s freeze on Alice Guo’s P28 billion in assets (First of 2 parts)

Similarly, the human trafficking operations linked to Jeffrey Epstein in the United States showcased how powerful individuals could exploit systemic vulnerabilities for illicit gains.

The legal case vs. Guo and company Under Philippine law, particularly the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001, there are several provisions and precedents supporting the case against Guo:

The magnitude of these transactions, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests a deliberate effort to conceal illegal proceeds through various business operations and bank accounts

AMLA Section 10: Allows the CA to issue a freeze order on assets upon a verified ex parte petition from the AMLC, provided there is probable cause that the assets are related to unlawful activities.

Philippine Supreme Court Precedents: Republic vs. Sandiganbayan (1993): The court upheld the authority of the AMLC to freeze assets suspected of being tied to unlawful activities.

Almonte vs. People (2017): This case reinforced the use of circumstantial evidence in establishing probable cause for asset

force cooperation and elevate partnerships by conducting joint patrols and military exercises and called for more support for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Manhit believes these measures “will send a strong message that the Philippines is not alone.”

“Those who attempt to circumvent their obligations and behave aggressively will not be tolerated by the international community. We will not waver in our determination and commitment,” Manhit said.

Continuing to assert our stance in the West Philippine Sea is crucial for safeguarding our sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic rights.

The arbitral award of 2016 provides a legal foundation for these rights, invalidates Beijing’s “ten-dash” expansionary ambitions, and reinforces the importance of adhering to international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of

freezing under AMLA. The AMLC’s investigation detailed a significant surge in Guo’s financial transactions starting in 2014, coinciding with the rise of POGO activities.

The magnitude of these transactions, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests a deliberate effort to conceal illegal proceeds through various business operations and bank accounts.

The resolution of cases against Guo and her associates will follow these procedural steps:

Preliminary Investigation: Conducted by the Department of Justice to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to charge Guo and her associates with violations of AMLA and other related laws.

Filing of Charges: If probable cause is established, formal charges will be filed in court.

Trial: The Regional Trial Court will hear the case, where both the prosecution and defense will present their evidence and arguments. Judgment: Based on the evidence presented, the court will render a verdict. If convicted, Guo and her associates may face significant penalties, including imprisonment and forfeiture of assets.

Potential Repercussions

Under the AMLA and other related laws, the potential penalties for Guo and her associates could include:

Imprisonment: A term of up to seven years for each count of money laundering. Fines: Fines ranging from P500,000 to P10 million for each count.

Forfeiture: The

Additional

the Sea. We must persistently assert our country’s rights, not only to protect our national security but also as a responsible country committed to sustaining regional stability and the rules-based international order. This stance deters illegal activities and aggressive actions in our waters, ensuring that our maritime resources are preserved, and that freedom of navigation is upheld for the stability of the global economy. The unwavering support of like-minded states is astounding. Their diplomatic, strategic, and moral support underscores the collective commitment to a peaceful and secure Indo-Pacific region.

This international support not only bolsters the Filipino people’s confidence but also amplifies our country’s voice in the global geopolitical arena as a defender for peace and prosperity under the rule of law in the West Philippine Sea.

What we know: Donald Trump slay attempt

BUTLER, United States – Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt at a political rally Saturday, leaving the FBI hunting for information about how a gunman could attack a former US president.

Here is a blow-by-blow account of the shooting in Pennsylvania, where one Trump supporter was killed.

Dressed in a white shirt, dark blazer and bright red MAGA cap, Trump was railing against illegal immigration when shots rang out at 6:08 pm.

“Take a look at what happened...” he said, his words cut off by four shots in quick succession. Trump grabbed his right ear as repeated shouts of “get down!” were heard, before a fifth and sixth shot.

The former president crouched down behind the lectern as Secret Service agents moved in around him. Screams were heard in the crowd. Within four seconds further shots were fired, prompting more supporters to get down while additional agents rush to the stage.

Seventeen seconds after the first shots, a final pop was heard and a woman screamed.

Three heavily-armed members of the security forces moved onto the stage 22 seconds after the shooting started. Secret Service agents swiftly shared instructions -- such as “we’re clear” and “let’s move” -- before they lifted up a disheveled Trump.

Visible once more around one minute after the gunfire started, Trump said “let me get my shoes” as the agents formed a ring around him.

It’s another 13 seconds until Trump raised his fist to the crowd, who responded with cheers.

At the former leader was ushered off the stage, his MAGA cap in hand, onlookers chanted “USA!”.

Trump paused briefly to pump his fist in the air, before stepping off the stage. Immediately before disappearing into an SUV and just two minutes after the assassination attempt started, Trump raised his fist once more and turned briefly towards the crowd. As the car pulled away, heavily-armed security forces dressed in khaki fatigues moved onto the scene. Trump says ‘felt the bullet’ Trump gave his first account of the shooting at 8:42 pm, posting on his Truth Social site.

“I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear,” Trump wrote.

“I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.” The White House said President Joe Biden was given an initial briefing on the incident by 6:50 pm.

“There’s no place in America for this kind of violence. It’s sick. It’s sick,” Biden told reporters in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. AFP

Syrian soldier killed in strike on Damascus

DAMASCUS

– A Syrian soldier was killed early on Sunday and three others injured in Israeli strikes on several positions in and around Damascus, Syrian state media said.

The Israeli army, meanwhile, said it had targeted a Syrian military command center as well as targets and infrastructure belonging to the Syrian army and air defense in response to two drones launched towards Israel from Syrian territory.

The statement was a rare acknowledgment by the Israeli military of action in Syria, where it has launched hundreds of strikes since the country’s civil war erupted in 2011, which have mainly targeted army positions and Iran-backed fighters.

“A soldier was killed and three others injured following an aerial aggression launched by the Israeli enemy after midnight” on Sunday, Syria’s state news agency SANA reported.

The strike “was launched from the occupied Syrian Golan Heights targeting several military positions in the southern region and a residential building in the Kafr Sousa district of Damascus”, it added.

It said that aerial defense systems had intercept-

and downed a number of missiles “de

tensity”.

Kremlin warns Russia could hit Europe if US deploys missiles

Senior Hamas official says group exits truce talks

PALESTINIAN Territories – A senior

Hamas official told AFP Sunday the Palestinian militant group has withdrawn from talks on a ceasefire in the Gaza war because of Israeli “massacres” and its attitude in negotiations.

Another Hamas official said the group’s military leader Mohammed Deif was “fine” and working despite Israel’s huge bomb attack on a southern Gaza camp that it said targeted the wanted Hamas commander.

Gaza’s health ministry said the attack left 92 dead.

Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh told international mediators Qatar and

Egypt of the end of the talks on a ceasefire plan first outlined by US President Joe Biden in May, according to the senior official.

The first phase of the deal would have seen a six-week ceasefire with the exchange of most hostages taken in Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack on Israel for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.

Haniyeh said Hamas would “halt negotiations due to the occupation’s (Israel) lack of seriousness, continued policy of procrastination and obstruction, and the ongoing massacres against unarmed civilians,” according to the official.

“Hamas has shown great flexibility to

Haniyeh condemns Israel’s ‘heinous massacres’ of 92 dead, 300 injured

HAMAS leader Ismail Haniyeh on Saturday accused Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of seeking to block a ceasefire in the Gaza war with “heinous massacres” carried out by Israeli forces, a statement by the Palestinian militant group said.

The head of the political bureau of the group, which is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union and several other countries, called on international mediators to act following two attacks in Gaza that Palestinian officials said killed more than 100 people.

An Israeli strike on the Al Mawasi camp for displaced persons, which Israel said had targeted the Hamas military chief, left at least 90 dead and 300 wound-

ed, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.

The civil defense agency said at least 20 people were killed in a strike on a makeshift mosque at Al-Shati refugee camp in northern Gaza.

The Hamas statement said Haniyeh contacted officials in Qatar and Egypt, which are seeking to mediate in the war set off by the Hamas Oct. 7 attacks, as well as Oman and Turkey to discuss the “brutal massacres.”

He said Hamas had shown “a positive and responsible response” to new proposals for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange, but “the Israeli position taken by Netanyahu was to place obstacles that prevent reaching an agreement”, according to the Hamas statement. AFP

reach an agreement and end the aggression and is ready to resume negotiations when the occupation government demonstrates seriousness in reaching a ceasefire agreement and a prisoner exchange deal.

Haniyeh said in a statement late Saturday that he had called the mediators and other countries to urge them to put pressure on Israel to halt the attacks.

Israel said Deif, who it considers one of the “masterminds” of the Oct. 7 attacks, was the target of the strikes on the Al-Mawasi camp in southern Gaza where tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians from other districts have gathered. AFP

MOSCOW – The Kremlin has warned the deployment of US missiles in Germany could make European capitals targets for Russian missiles in a repeat of Cold War-style confrontation.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov spoke of a “paradox” in which “Europe is a target for our missiles, our country is a target for US missiles in Europe.”

“We have enough capacity to contain these missiles but the potential victims are the capitals of these countries,” he said, speaking to Russian state television channel Russia 1. Peskov also hinted that such a confrontation could undermine Europe as a whole -- in the same way that the Cold War ended with the Soviet Union’s collapse.

“Europe is coming apart. Europe is not living its best moment. In a different configuration, a repeat of history is inevitable,” he said.

The White House announced on Wednesday during a NATO summit that it would periodically station long-range weapons including Tomahawk cruise missiles in Germany from 2026 as a deterrent.

“Exercising these advanced capabilities will demonstrate the United States’ commitment to NATO and its contributions to European integrated deterrence,” the White House said.

The Kremlin has already criticised the move, accusing Washington of taking a step towards a new Cold War and of directly participating in the conflict in Ukraine.

Russia’s defense ministry on Friday said that Defense Minister Andrei Belousov held a telephone call with his US counterpart Lloyd Austin where they discussed lowering the risk of “possible escalation”. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has hailed the US decision despite criticism from members of his Social Democrats. The decision marks a return of US cruise missiles to Germany after a 20-year absence.

Defending the decision, Scholz told reporters at the NATO summit that it was “something of deterrence and it’s securing peace, and it is a necessary and important decision at the right time.” AFP

BASTILLE DAY. Special French military school of Saint-Cyr walk along the Avenue Foch before taking part in the Bastille Day military parade in Paris Sunday. On July 14, 1789, revolutionaries stormed the Bastille fortress and prison in Paris, heralding the start of the French Revolution and the end of the monarchy. The holiday is central to the French calendar, with events across the country. AFP

IN BRIEF

699 Army recruits end 4-mo. training course

THE latest batch of 699 Army recruits composing the “Siklas Matatag” Class of the Candidate Soldier Course have completed their fourmonth training as a pre-condition to their enlistment in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Army spokesman Col. Louie Dema-ala said the graduation ceremony was held at the Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command in Camp O'Donnell, Capas, Tarlac on Friday.

Camilo Chatto Jr. graduated on top of his class with the rank of Private and received a cash gift from the Armed Forces and Police Savings and Loans Association, Inc. (AFPSLAI). He was followed by Danny Bautista Jr. and Melvin Meniano, while Jolan Balon bagged the Physical Proficiency Award.

“The Philippine Army is currently implementing a centralized recruitment program for recruits, designed to pick capable and qualified applicants in a systematic and efficient manner,” Dema-ala said.

The recruitment program enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of the recruitment process to ensure that the best and most qualified candidates are selected in accordance with the needs and required competencies of the Army. Rex Espiritu

4,170 Angeles workers get red-soled sneakers

IT WAS a virtual Christmas in July as Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin Jr. gifted 4,170 city hall employees with red-soled shoes.

The sneakers were personal gift from Lazatin as a token of his appreciation to the city’s loyal and hardworking personnel.

Previous to the distribution, the mayor handed over a red-soled shoes to Association of Government Employees for a New Dynamic Angeles City (AGENDA) President Flordeliza Santos during the ceremonial turnover held at the Mayor’s Office.

“On behalf of all the employees of Angeles City Hall, we would like to thank Mayor Pogi Lazatin for yet another surprise for us. His thoughtfulness for us employees is more than what we expected,” said Flordeliza Santos, president of the Association of Government Employees for a New Dynamic Angeles City. Santos was the first to receive a pair of red-soled shoes from the mayor. Butch Gunio

Firm launches literacy program for children

A PRIVATELY owned corporation specializing in floating solar panels has rolled out its corporate social responsibility program aimed at promoting literacy among the children.

Blueleaf Energy Philippines and its renewable energy unit NKS Solar One, in collaboration with the Corazon Atayde Memorial Foundation launched its Learning English Through Stories (LET’S Read Program) in San Juan Central School in Kalayaan, Laguna.

Forty-five (45) elementary pupils were given learning materials, books, and tutorial support with the help of volunteer teachers and parents.

The program aimed at inspiring love for reading and learning in children with the view of arming the learners with confidence and skills that will help them to succeed in life. Bútch Gunio

Solon seeks immediate wage hike outside NCR

HOUSE Minority Leader and 4Ps party-list Rep. Marcelino Libanan wants all 16 regional wage boards outside of the National Capital Region to move fast in giving private sector workers immediate relief from soaring cost of living.

“We are counting on all regional wage boards outside of Metro Manila to quickly figure out the pay increases needed to help workers recover the purchasing power that they’ve lost on account of the spiralling prices of basic commodities,” Libanan said.

“Under the Labor Code, all regional wage boards are empowered to review and raise the take-home pay of workers even in the absence of any petition for an increase,” he pointed out.

In a Pulse Asia Research Inc. report

released Friday, adult Filipinos aged 18 years old and above cited “increasing the pay of workers” as their second most urgent concern, next to “controlling inflation.”

“Reducing poverty, creating more jobs, and fighting graft and corruption in government” were also among the top five most urgent issues cited by Filipinos in the June 2024 Survey on national concerns and the President’s State of the Nation Address.

The Regional Tripartite Wages and

Productivity Board in Metro Manila earlier approved a P35 increase in the daily minimum wage rate of non-farm workers – from P610 to P645 – effective July 16.

Libanan said the country “absolutely needs higher wages to boost up household consumption spending, which has been dampened by wage erosion due to price increases.”

“We have to stimulate household consumption spending if we want to increase the demand for goods and services at a faster rate, and create more jobs in the months ahead,” Libanan said.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), household consumption spending accounts for 73 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

FORMER Senator Gringo Honasan on Sunday sought to include the acquisition of military hospital ships in the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program (AFPMP).

A former Army colonel before entering politics, Honasan noted that these

military ships beyond being deployed for war, can also be used to support the government’s disaster relief and humanitarian operations.

“Considering that we are an archipelagic nation extremely vulnerable to natural disasters, military hospital ships would be a wise and practical investment,” said Honasan.

By Caloy Lozada

Also the former chair of the Senate Defense committee, he emphasized that the hospital military ships can be part of the country’s overall disaster readiness - capable of swift mobilization and coastal operations, and can receive patients by air and water.

Honasan also suggested that the Army can initially procure three mili-

THE Bacolod City Government is set to introduce identification cards (IDs) for members of various sectoral groups in the city. This initiative aims to simplify the process of validating beneficiaries, ensuring that aid distribution becomes more efficient.

Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Benitez emphasized the need for an official system to accurately identify group members. The details of the ID system will be discussed in an upcoming meeting with 12 sectoral groups.

He noted that the current method of verifying beneficiaries often leads to delays and discrepan-

SC holds mental health summit for judicial personnel

By Rey E. Requejo

THE Supreme Court has conducted a regional summit on mental health dubbed as “Nurturing Mental Health to Enhance Efficiency and Productivity in the Judiciary” held last July 12 at the Cordillera Convention Hall of the Baguio Country Club in Baguio City.

The meeting give premium importance to the mental health of judicial officers and employees.

The event, dubbed “SC C.A.R.E.S.” was a project of the Supreme Court Governing Council for Mental Health (SC GCMH), chaired by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, with Associate Justice Mario Lopez as working chairman and Associate Justice Maria Filomena Singh as vice chairperson.

The first SC C.A.R.E.S. regional summit outside of the National Capital Judicial Region, was attended by close to 200 judiciary employees consisting of randomly selected judges, clerks of court, and personnel from the first- and second-level courts from the First Judicial Region.

SC C.A.R.E.S., which stands for Supreme Court Compassion, Awareness, Education and Save Program on Mental Health, is a program which seeks to combat mental health risks by fostering awareness, eradicating the social stigma surrounding these conditions, and providing professional counselling for affected employees.

In his keynote message, Gesmundo reiterated his request for everyone in the Judiciary to prioritize their mental health.

tary hospital ships – to be positioned in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao – ready to provide life-saving mobile emergency medical services. According to him, other countries are designing military hospital ships with 60 beds, 18 intensive care units, and a blood bank. He said the hospital ships will be operated and maintained by the military.

cies. A more efficient system is essential for Bacolod City, especially when distributing aid from the national government.

The plan emerged after Mayor Benitez observed the prolonged validation process by the City Agriculture Office for 500 residents claiming eligibility for the Presidential Assistance for Fisherfolk and Farmers (PAFF). The verification process is still ongoing, highlighting the need for a streamlined approach. Additionally, Mayor Benitez considered the complaints from many farmers who felt excluded from the master list at City Hall. These farmers believe they deserve the aid from the president but are currently not listed as beneficiaries.

THEY HELP FEED THE NATION. Farmers who earn a measly P300 a day are the unsung heroes who feed the entire Filipino citizenry. These rice croppers in San Antonio, Zambales manifest the true meaning of the song ‘Planting rice is never fun.’ Danny Pata

Editor Asst. Editor

Cebu Sports Complex track oval to undergo makeover after Palaro

By Peter Atencio

NO COMPETITIONS will be held at the track oval of the Cebu City Sports Complex after the 2024 Palarong Pambansa ends next week.

The oval will be shut down for an indefinite period of time until corrections are made to its design and facilities go through another series of changes.

Officials from both the Department of Education and the Cebu City Sports Commission said a third party will

do a remeasuring of the length of the oval and a makeover will be scheduled later on.

The length of the oval is believed to be at 398 meters, two meters short of the prescribed 400 meters, the international standard set by World Athletics.

Cebu City Sports Commission chair-

man John Pages said this on Saturday, in the presence of Department of Education assistant secretary Francis Cesar Bringas.

“For competitions, we will have to see first if there’s any corrections that we have to make,” said Pages.

He, however, said that the oval will reopen to the public on July 19, but only for recreational use.

Bringas said they are now seeking a re-measurement of the oval after it appeared to fall short of World Athletics’ standard.

Athletics officials have sought a reevaluation of the length of the oval, which is now being used for the running events of the 2024 Palarong Pambansa.

It is believed to have fallen short of the standard distance of 400 meters, which according to Bringas, is a red flag, or a major concern to sports bodies like World Athletics and the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association.

“The resolution is that they will take in a third party to have a more accurate verification of their distance of the entire oval,” said Bringas.

Krejcikova wins Wimby for 2nd Grand Slam singles’ crown

LONDON—Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic defeated Italy’s Jasmine Paolini to win the Wimbledon women’s title on Saturday for her second Grand Slam singles triumph. Krejcikova, the 31st seed, won 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 to add the 2024 All England Club crown to her 2021 French Open victory.

Her win comes 26 years after her mentor Jana Novotna, who died iof cancer in 2017, claimed the Wimbledon title.

“Before she passed away, she told me to go and win a Slam. I did that in Paris in 2021 but I never dreamed of winning the same trophy that Jana did,” said the 28-year-old Krejcikova, who secured the title in a nervy final service game on a third championship point.

“It’s unreal what just happened.

The best day of my tennis career and the best day of my life.

“I was just telling myself to be brave. It was such a difficult match, a great final, a great competition and I’m super happy to be standing here enjoying this moment.”

Krejcikova, who will return to the top 10 following her victory, came into Wimbledon after a testing season.

A back injury and illness meant she went winless on the tour from February until June.

“I was injured and ill and didn’t have a good start to the season and now I’m Wimbledon winner. How did that happen?”

“I think nobody’s going to believe I won Wimbledon. I still can’t believe it. Two weeks ago (first round) I had a very tough match, 7-5 in the third set and I wasn’t in good shape.”

The result means seventh-seeded Paolini has lost two Grand Slam finals back-to-back after coming off second best to Iga Swiatek at the French Open last month. AFP

Ramos poised for another title run at Golf Tour

COMING off a long hiatus, Sean Ramos is set to showcase the same stellar form that earned him his breakthrough victory on the Philippine Golf Tour at Lakewood in Cabanatuan City last June.

But the ICTSI Splendido Taal Championship reeling off tomorrow (Tuesday, July 16) will present a more formidable challenge for the 20-year-old rising star, with a field brimming with talent in the P2 million championship serving as the sixth leg of this year’s PGT.

Ramos demonstrated remarkable maturity at Lakewood, overcoming formidable opponents like multi-titled Reymon Jaraula and Tony Lascuña in a gripping battle of shot-making and nerves, ultimately securing a two-shot victory.

The triumph came on the heels of near-misses at the Palos Verdes Championship and the Philippine Masters, where he struggled in the final rounds while vying for his first win.

At Lakewood, Ramos managed to handle the pressure with great determination and resilience, savoring every moment of the competition.

“I played strategically in the closing holes to secure the win without taking unnecessary risks,” said Ramos, highlighting his maturity in managing high-pressure situations.

Davao Wolves get PSL baptism of fire at Championship Challenge

THE Philippines’ under-20 team, represented by the champion squad from Davao City-NTB Wolves that won the recent National Finals, will immediately get its baptism of fire as it takes on a crack team from North America to kick off the three-game bill in the opener of the first ever PSL Global Championship Challenge.

Games Monday (Smart Araneta Coliseum)

2 p.m. – Opening Ceremonies

4 p.m. – New Zealand vs Canada (08)

6 p.m. – Thailand vs UK (06)

8 p.m. – Philippines vs North America (04)

Game time is 8 p.m. as the Philippine Born 2004 team will face fellow young Pinoy cagers based in America and handled by no less than two former PBA players – Romel Santos and Dale Singson.

Santos was a member of the Shell champion teams in 1998 and 1999 while Singson, former star player of University of Santo Tomas, also played for four PBA squads.

The two will bring along Fil-American players culled from the NABA Basketball In-

tercity, a group formed by three-time Letran champion coach Larry Albano.

Among the notable players seeing action for North America are 6-foot-4 Kyle Perez, 6-foot-4 wingman Jason Suba and six-foot guard Richmond Casino.

The Philippine under-20 squad, on the other hand, will be handled by former PBL player Jigger Saniel and ex-PBA guard Pong Escobal and will be spearheaded by National Finals Moist Valuable Player winner John Eimrod Rodulfa.

Also seeing action on opening day are New Zealand and Canada’s Born 2008 division squads and Thailand and United Kingdom’s Born 2006 teams.

All teams participating in the PSL Global Championship Challenge are composed of Pinoy players based overseas.

HALL-OF-FAME BEST Center (Basketball Efficiency and Scientific Training Center) opens its award-winning basketball and volleyball clinics at the Ateneo College covered courts on July 20.

The Saturdays-only sessions will end on August 31.

Basketball sessions will be from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon for students in Levels 1, 2, 3, and Preparatory (5-8 yrs old).

Afternoon sessions are from 1 to 4:30 p.m. for other students enrolled in Levels 1, 2, and 4.

Volleyball will have sessions at 8:30 to 12 noon for students in Levels 1, 2, 3, and adult class while 1-4:30 pm sessions are reserved for those enrolled in the Mastery Level.

Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba Laguna will follow suit with Sundays-only classes from August 4 to September 8. Morning sessions (8:30 - 12 noon) are for students in the Preparatory Level (5-8 yrs old) and Level 1 (9-11 years old) while 1-4 pm sessions are reserved for Levels 1(12 years old and above), and Levels 2 and 3.

Interested students may reach bestcenter.inquiry@gmail.com or through telephone numbers 83719724 and 34116260 to enroll in the clinics sponsored by Milo, in cooperation with Chris Sports and Sklz.

The BEST Center is a Phil ippine Sports Association (PSA) Hall of Fame and Committee (POC) Olymp

Reig reigns; Burgos repeats in 5150 Bohol

BOHOL—Two years after stunning a stellar field in the 5150 Subic, Irienold Reig, Jr. showcased his potential once again by dominating the men’s category of the Sun Life 5150 Bohol, capturing the overall crown on Panglao Island yesterday (Sunday).

Erika Burgos, on the other hand, reasserted her dominance in the women’s category, repeating her victory in the 1.5 km swim, 40 km bike, and 10 km run race of the event held under the Olympic-style setup at one of the country’s top triathlon hubs. However, the 5150 Bohol event was marred by tragedy during the first leg of the competition.

In an official statement, the Sun Life 5150 Bohol Triathlon expressed deep sorrow: “It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of a race participant at 5150 Bohol. The athlete required medical attention during the swim portion, with event medical personnel providing support onsite before transporting to hospital where the athlete sadly passed away.” The statement continued: “Our heartfelt condo -

lences go out to the athlete’s family and friends, whom we will continue to offer our support. We appreciate the quick work of onsite safety personnel who provide the athlete with medical support.”

Despite this somber incident, Reig’s standout performance was notable. The rising star from Quezon City took charge right from the opening swim leg, clocking 19:32. He then thwarted Satar Salem’s charge in the bike segment with a time of 1:00:46, finishing strong in the closing run stage (38:25) under overcast skies.

Reig finished with an overall time of 2:03:32 and also claimed the age group honors in the 20-24 division. This performance far surpassed his clocking in his breakthrough win in Subic in 2022, where he timed 2:12:49 to claim both the overall crown and the age-group category (15-19).

Joshua Ramos placed second in 2:09:06 with leg times of 19:38 (swim), 1:02:32 (bike) and 41:37 (run), while Paul Jumamil took third place honors in 2:10:46 from times of 21:52, 1:00:22 and 43:48.

Czech Republic’s Barbora Krejcikova kisses the winner’s trophy, the Venus Rosewater Dish, after winning against Italy’s Jasmine Paolini during their women’s singles final tennis match on the thirteenth day of the

Erika Burgos

Sean Ramos

Debt payments climbed to P1.2t in five months

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE government’s debt service climbed 40.6 percent year-on-year in May 2024 on higher interest payments, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said over the weekend.

Data from the BTr showed that the debt service reached P68.98 billion in May, higher than P49.04 billion in the same period last year.

This brought the government’s total debt payment to P1.21 trillion in the first five months of 2024, up from P819.52 billion a year ago.

Debt service refers to the total amount to repay the interest and principal on a debt.

The government settled P61.09 billion in debt interest in May, up from P41.3 billion in the same month last year. In the first five months, interest payments climbed to P321.58 billion from P229.66 billion.

Interest payments to domestic creditors amounted to P46.07 billion in May, while those to external creditors reached P15.03 billion.

Broken down, the government paid P26.50 billion in fixed-rate Treasury bonds (T-bonds), P16.87 billion in retail T-bonds, P2.07 billion in Treasury bills (T-bills) and P617 million in other instruments.

Meanwhile, amortization on foreign obligations amounted to P7.79 billion in May, while domestic amortization amounted to P85 million. In the first five months, amortization reached P140.21 billion on foreign loans and P754.85 billion on domestic loans.

The BTr earlier said the national government’s debt jumped 2.2 percent year-on-year to P15.35 trillion as of end-May 2024.

The figure was 1.3 percent higher than the end-April 2024 level of P15 trillion.

Outstanding debt consisted of P10.4 trillion from domestic sources and P4.9 trillion from foreign lenders as of end-May. External debt increased 4.2 percent from the end-April level.

MOVE IT teams up with HONDA Safety Driving Center, Philippine Red Cross for intensive training program

HOMEGROWN motorcycle taxi company

MOVE IT strengthens its strategic partnerships with the HONDA Safety Driving Center and the Philippine Red Cross as part of its ongoing commitment to safety.

The renewed partnerships with the two organizations intensify MOVE IT’s skills assessment, capacity-building, and emergency response programs. “Safety remains a cornerstone of our operations. We are committed to constantly enhancing and advancing our programs, aiming to cultivate a fleet of rider-partners who are not only equipped with essential safety skills but also foster a safety-first mindset,” shares MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto.

“By forging strategic collaborations with esteemed organizations in road safety and emergency response, we continuously evolve our training and assessment program blueprint, aligning with globally recognized certification and training standards,” adds Jacinto.

Sharing the dedication to road safety with HONDA Safety Driving Center

MOVE IT further strengthened its partnership with HONDA for a training series dedicated to its team of trainers, assessors, and safety program designers. This collaboration has continued to thrive since its inception in 2022.

This initiative saw the MOVE IT team participating in an intensive training program spread across three core courses, with the goal of achieving certification as road safety instructors and assessors:

• Motorcycle Skills Certification (Intermediate to Advanced Courses)

• A certification program focused on assessment of road safety awareness, and professional driving skills.

• Safety Riding Course

• A training course focused on enriching the instructors’ road safety mindset and knowledge on how to become a responsible road user.

• Basic Motorcycle Troubleshooting

• A training course on how to ascertain the roadworthiness of a vehicle.

After completing the certification program, MOVE IT trainers and assessors are empowered to implement MOVE IT’s mandatory skills and vehicle assessment program for prospective rider-partners.

The same team vets aspiring rider-partners who will move on to the next phase of the MOVE IT onboarding process, which is the mandatory Driver Guidelines Orientation and Training. This program—designed after principles and guidelines set by the HONDA Road Safety team—places a strong emphasis on road safety and rider conduct, ensuring MOVE IT’s full compliance with established government standards.

On top of the certification program, the MOVE IT assessment and upskilling team also participates in courses on analytical driving, motorcycle dynamics, and practical application of topics like motorcycle handling, corrective riding posture, and traffic rules and regulations.

MOVE IT has also co-developed road safety courses with the HONDA Safety Driving Center, which are integrated into its orientation process and are made accessible to every rider via the in-app learning platform MOVE IT Academy.

Boosting MOVE IT’s emergency response unit with the Philippine Red Cross In a move towards enhancing safety and response measures, MOVE IT fortified its partnership with the Philippine Red Cross

(PRC) for an advanced training program designed specifically for the members of its Emergency Response Unit (ERU). The ERU is composed of volunteer rider leaders and a dedicated contingent from the MOVE IT team.

This initiative seeks to set new standards in emergency response and assistance in the motorcycle taxi industry. The training program encompasses a wide range of topics crucial for emergency preparedness and response, including Emergency Action Principle, Basic First Aid, Environmental Emergencies, and Special Situations.

Following the completion of workshop sessions with the PRC, the MOVE IT ERU members undergo further evaluation before being officially deployed as emergency responders.

The ERU responds to road incidents reported through the platform via the MOVE IT Hotline, the in-app Safety Center, or the Emergency SOS Button. They conduct a quick assessment of the situation, provide comprehensive on-site support, and facilitate communication with riders, passengers, and their families.

Lastly, the ERU administers basic first aid when required, while remaining to defer to professional medics for full-fledged medical attention and action.

“We are thankful for collaborations with organizations such as HONDA Safety Driving Center and the Philippine Red Cross, for these deepen our industrial knowledge —allowing us to better our service to every passenger and heighten our commitment to safety,” notes Jacinto.

Maintaining Global Standards for Local Moto-Taxi. MOVE IT partners with the HONDA Safety Driving Center to train and certify its team of safety trainers and assessors

The MOVE IT Emergency Response Unit undergoes intensive training with the Philippine Red Cross

PH stocks likely to move sideways with downward bias

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PHILIPPINE stocks are expected to move sideways with a downward bias, as the market’s recent rally gives opportunities for short-term investors to take profit.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said while the Philippine Stock Exchange index remains at attractive level, the market is vulnerable to profit-taking.

“The three-week rally gives opportunities for those with short term horizons to book gains. However, at its current level, the local stock market is still deemed attractive,” Tantiangco said.

“Hence, we also see bargain hunting possibilities for long term investors,” he said.

The market’s optimism is being driven by hopes that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and US Federal Reserve would soon implement rate cuts.

Analysts said adding to investor optimism is the appreciation of the peso against the dollar. Week-on-week, the peso appreciated by 0.26 percent to close at 58.380 against the US dollar.

“If this continues, then it is also expected to help the local bourse,” Tantiangco said.

Online brokerage firm 2TradeAsia.com said investors turned more upbeat as the local rate cut appeared more visible amid cooling inflation.

The market’s major support is seen at 6.400 this week, and resistance is at 6,700.

The index added 155.48 points, or 0.39 percent, week-on-week to close at 6,648.23. Average daily value traded improved to P5.95 billion from previous week’s average of P3.99 billion. Foreign investors were net buyers last week by P249 million.

DTI asks MSMEs

to embrace digital tools to expand

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual called on micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to embrace digital transformation to expand and be globally competitive.

Pascual said in his speech at the 2024 National MSME Summit in Pasay City the DTI would provide support and the tools necessary to enhance their competitiveness and eventually scale up.

“At the DTI, we translate the theme ‘Innovate to Elevate’ into action for MSMEs. Through our mission of Angat Negosyo, we are integrating digital technologies to propel MSMEs to new heights of competitiveness and scalability,” Pascual said.

“Imagine reducing costs, boosting productivity, and reaching new markets. That’s the power of digitalization. We are doing much to transform digitally our MSMEs and put the digital technologies in your hands, my dear MSMEs,” he said.

The DTI has onboarded 300,321 MSMEs nationwide in e-commerce from January 2023 to March 2024. These efforts include training in social media platforms such as Instagram, Viber, and TikTok marketplaces, to e-marketplaces such as Shopee, Amazon and Lazada.

Cost recovery delays to affect NGCP projects

By Alena Mae S. Flores

RANSMISSION

Toperator National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) said over the weekend the delayed approval of its cost recovery may affect future power transmission projects.

NGCP spokesperson Cynthia Perez-Alabanza expressed hope the Energy Regulatory Commission would soon come out with a decision on “the reasonable recovery for NGCP’s investments.”

Alabanza said the NGCP’s last approved regulatory period was in 2015, and the fourth regulatory period should have started in 2016.

“We are in the middle of the fifth regulatory period. NGCP has been waiting a long time, and we are hopeful that whatever will be the decision will be fair and will encourage investors,” Alabanza said.

Alabanza said, however, NGCP remained committed to building more projects as directed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during the inauguration of the Mariveles-Hermosa-San Jose Transmission Line on Friday.

She said the company needed support from the Department of Energy and the ERC to fast track the completion of pending transmission projects.

She said some of these projects needed regulatory approvals before they could proceed. “If we are given full support, you can see we can do more,” Alabanza said.

She said while NGCP was able to construct its projects fast, it faced numerous challenges such as right of way and permitting issues.

“But with the solid support of the President… we are very happy that he has

confirmed that it is necessary to work together—NGCP and DOE, public and private—so we can realize the thrust of Bagong Pilipinas,” Alabanza said.

President Marcos said the recently-completed transmission project attests to the power of collaboration between the public and the private sectors towards a stable, reliable and resilient power supply for the country.

“It will also help in the administration’s thrust to transition to renewable energy to mitigate the impact of geopolitical uncertainties and of course, the effects of climate change. So, I direct the DOE and the NGCP to complete the almost 70 transmission projects on time as indicated in our Transmission Development Plan, particularly the Batangas-Mindoro Interconnection Project and the Northern Luzon 230-kiloVolt Loop. And this way, we can meet our increasing energy demand, encourage technological advancements, and produce more employment opportunities for our people,” Marcos said

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said over the weekend it posted a 79-percent drop in blocked spam messages in the second quarter of 2024 from the same period last year.

Globe said it intercepted 235,998,731 spam SMS messages from April to June, a substantial drop from the 1,104,502,921 messages blocked in the same quarter of 2023. Blocked spam SMS messages also declined 35 percent from

362,773,894 messages seen in the first quarter of 2024.

Globe said that further supporting this trend is the number of deactivated SIMs reported via its StopScam portal from April to June, which fell to 504 from 4,054 in the same period the previous year, marking an 88-percent decrease year-on-year. It said that between the first and second quarters of 2024, the drop was 40 percent, with the first three months of 2024 recording 841 deactivated num-

bers. Deactivated numbers included SIMs within the Globe network.

“We have observed a consistent decline in spam SMS– those that pass through the cellular network– as we continue to implement stringent filtering systems, including blocking person-to-person SMS with links,” Globe’s chief information security officer and chief AI officer Anton Bonifacio said.

“We reiterate our advice to our customers to remain vigilant and never engage with any unsolicited message they

up by 121.48 percent from P2.96 billion in the same period last year. Total Philippine gaming industry gross gaming revenue, or GGR, grew 19.21 percent to P194.743 billion from P163.36 billion in the first semester of 2023.

PAGCOR chairman and chief executive Alejandro Tengco said the robust income growth of the state gaming firm is a testament to the positive result of the reforms and enhanced regulations being implemented under the new administration.

“PAGCOR’s robust net income growth translates of course to a larger contribution to nation-building,” he said. “We were able to remit P31.82 billion in CNB to the Treasury in the first six months compared to P22.62 billion in the same period last year.” Driving PAGCOR’s income growth is the robust increase in its gross revenues totaling P51.76 billion, up 42.92 percent from P36.21 billion for the January to June 2023 period.

Gaming operations contributed the bulk of revenues at P45.39 billion.

Nearly half of the gaming revenues or 45.53 percent came from the online gaming sector –comprised of e-games, e-bingo and bingo grantees – which brought in a total of P20.66 billion. Integrated resorts or licensed casinos chipped in P16.06 billion to PAGCOR’s gaming revenues for a 35.439-percent share, while PAGCOR-operated casinos under the Casino Filipino brand generated P6.93 billion for a 15.27-percent gaming revenue contribution.

Tengco said the P51.76 billion firsthalf revenues put PAGCOR on track to reach or even breach the P100 billion annual gross revenue threshold this year.

receive, whether via SMS or chat apps, particularly those with dubious offers,” he said.

Globe said that while these figures demonstrate the effectiveness of its spam filtering systems, they also highlight a change in scam tactics that evade cellular networks.

It noted an increasing threat posed by spoofed SMS, a method that bypasses telecom networks’ spam filters, making detection and prevention particularly challenging.

One Meralco Foundation energizes low-income homes

ONE Meralco Foundation (OMF), the corporate social responsibility arm of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), energized 255 homes in several barangays in Doña Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan, allowing lowincome families to have access to stable electricity service. Through OMF’s flagship initiative Household Electrification Program, Meralco’s Sta. Maria Business Center and Plaridel Sector teamed up with the Municipality of Doña Remedios Trinidad to provide assistance and install individual service entrances for residents of Barangays Pulong Sampaloc, Camachile and Camachin – enabling them to have their own electricity connection and minimize the risk of fire hazards due to illegal connections and use of candles for lighting at night.

“Our residents greatly benefitted from

this program, allowing their homes to have its own electric meter. One Meralco Foundation, Meralco, and its contractors’ efforts to ensure access to reliable electricity will improve their daily living conditions,” Doña Remedios Trinidad Mayor Ronaldo Flores said. The electrification program also helped improve the lives of residents.

“We bought a new freezer so we could also sell ice and other frozen products in our

sari-sari store business by selling ice and frozen products.

The program also allowed the residents to better manage their consumption and budget for electricity bills now that they have their own electric service.

“For 15 years, we relied on our neighbor for electricity access. The arrangement was to split the bill equally among three households regardless of power consumption. To limit this, we only use one electric fan and essential lights. Now, we can conveniently use more appliances at home including a nebulizer which helps me with my asthma,” resident Ana Marie Galvez said. OMF’s household electrification program paves the way for basic services to be available to more underserved Filipinos, said Meralco chief corporate social responsibility officer and OMF president Jeffrey Tarayao.

TRAVEL MADNESS. Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista (second from right) and Department of Tourism Secretary Ma. Christina Frasco (second from left) grace the 11th Travel

DTI, DA monitor rice prices amid tariff reduction impact

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Trade and Industry

(DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) jointly launched a rice price monitoring effort to assess the potential impact of tariff reduction on imported rice under Executive Order (EO) 62.

“Recognizing rice as a staple in the Filipino diet, the DTI is steadfast in monitoring and analyzing rice price fluctuations. These data-driven reports will inform policymakers’ decisions to ensure stable rice supply, distribution, and pricing,” said DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual, who also chairs the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC).

The DTI will lead the price monitoring initiative that will cover supermarkets, hypermarkets, grocery stores and wet markets nationwide. It builds upon similar efforts implemented after the lifting of temporary

price ceilings under EO 39.

The NPCC is a crucial government body composed of representatives from various sectors. It plays a key role in coordinating national efforts to stabilize prices of essential goods, including rice. Pascual commended Congress for its unwavering support in maintaining price stability and food security. He recognized House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Representatives Ferjenel Biron, Mark Enverga and Erwin Tulfo for their dedication to protecting consumer interests and combating hoarding, profiteering, and smuggling.

“We at the DTI deeply appreciate the tireless work of these legislators in holding price manipulators and violators accountable. Their actions align perfectly with our mission to empower and care for consumers while fostering fair competition for legitimate businesses,” Pascual said.

PEZA registers 77% decline in investments

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) reported a 77-percent drop in investments to P45.48 billion in the first half of 2024 from P80.58 billion in the same period in 2023, despite an increase in approved projects to 120 from 102.

PEZA director-general Tereso Panga cited the projects’ potential to create 25,259 direct jobs, a 64-percent increase from 2023’s first half, and generate about $1.61 billion in exports.

“Following the strategic investment

THE Philippine Geothermal Production Company, Inc. (PGPC) said over the weekend it will start the exploration and development of new geothermal energy sources in different areas in Luzon with potential capacity of up to 400 megawatts in the next five to seven years.

The company, led by SM Investments Corp., said the five new project concession sites are located in geothermal-rich areas in the provinces of Kalinga, Benguet, Cagayan, Quezon, Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur.

SMIC president and chief executive, also PGPC chairman Frederic DyBuncio, said “SM’s investment in PGPC underscores the group’s dedication to help create a more sustainable future.”

PGPC aims to establish fully operational geothermal fields capable of generating between 250 MW to 400 MW of additional renewable baseload power which can be readily dispatched to power plants and other prospective off-takers.

PGPC said these projects will help bolster power security for Luzon and advance the country’s renewable energy objectives.

“With these projects slated for completion within the next 5 to 7 years, they will be sources of additional renewable baseload power that will help reduce the risk of power supply shortages in the Luzon power grid,” said PGPC president Napoleon Saporsantos Jr.

“They will also play a pivotal role in the Department of Energy’s target of having renewable energy sources account for at least 50 percent of the country’s total power capacity by 2040,” he said. Alena Mae S. Flores

generation and FDI collaboration plans of our government spearheaded by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we are positive in enhancing and strengthening our efforts, even more, to secure partnerships from a large

number of investors in different industries for the continuous boost in the Philippines’ economic growth and progress,” he said.

PEZA reported a 104.21-percent increase in investments to P30.53 billion in the second quarter from the first quarter’s P14.95 billion.

Building on the first quarter, approved job creation rose 18.97 percent in the second quarter, reaching 13,751 new jobs compared to 11,558 in the first quarter.

PEZA also approved five big-ticket projects with combined investments of P31.36 billion in the same period, two

of which were approved in June 2024.

The biggest approved project is a Filipino-led ecozone development in Tarlac, followed by a Caymanian solar wafer cells manufacturer using Maxeon 7 technology and a Japanese manufacturer of metal base wirewound chip inductors.

The two newly-approved big-ticket projects in June include the P6.15-billion investments of a Malaysian assembler of hair stylers and a Japanese locator into manufacture of biomass fuel products, oxygen reducers and highquality activated charcoal made from coconut shells in General Santos City.

THE Department of Energy (DOE) said will hold the second round of competitive selection process (CSP) for microgrid system provider (MGSP) next month that will initially electrify 75 unserved and underserved areas.

It said in a statement over the weekend the move is part of its continuing commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the remaining unserved and underserved areas in the country.

The government aims to energize 100 percent of households by 2028.

The 75 identified areas covering 12,212 households were part of the 98 identified areas clustered into 49 lots previously offered during the first

round of the MGSP-CSP in November last year.

The DOE said these areas are viable for MGSP given their higher demand, and most of the households are not widely dispersed.

It said the second round of MGSPCSP would follow a streamlined and transparent process and allow MGSP proponents to survey the areas and prepare their proposal according to the schedule set by the DOE.

The DOE will issue the call for interested bidders in the first week of August, with the submission of expression of interest and pre-qualification slated for the fourth week of August.

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reaffirmed its commitment to elevating micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Zamboanga by harnessing the immense potential of the Halal industry.

DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual, through his chief of staff Ana Carolina Sanchez, outlined a comprehensive strategy to harness the region’s vast potential and capitalize on the global Halal market during the Bagong Pilipinas Town Hall held in Zamboanga City.

“The DTI is committed to our vision: a globally competitive Philippines that is the preferred trading partner and investment destination––fueled by diversified industries, innovation-driven enterprises, empowered consumers, and high-quality job opportunities for all Filipinos,” said Pascual.

Meanwhile, the submission and opening of technical and financial bid proposals will be in the fourth week of September, and the target issuance of notice of award is in the first week of December.

The DOE said Republic Act (RA) No. 11646, or the Microgrid Systems Act of 2022, mandates the conduct of a CSP before an MGSP can serve offgrid areas. It provides a 90-day timeline to complete the conduct of the CSP from the pre-qualification until the submission of the awarded contract to the Energy Regulatory Commission.

Flores

Alena Mae S.

The DTI’s comprehensive strategy to empower and strengthen Halal MSMEs involves forming strategic partnerships, ensuring diverse product offerings, expanding market reach and conducting capacity building trainings to support marginalized communities.

Themed

“Halal Industry: Boosting Economic Development in Mindanao,” the town hall showcased the strategic importance of the Halal industry in catalyzing economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation in Mindanao.

“With the lobal Halal market currently presenting a trillion-dollar opportunity, our vision is to create a robust ecosystem for investment, certification, and training. These untapped potentials can generate PHP 120 million in investments, 120,000 jobs, and a 20 percent increase in Halal exports of products

Panga said Eastern European countries also expressed interest in the Philippines with visits from Ukrainian, Polish and Russian delegations conducting inquiries and site visits preparatory to investing in the country.

PEZA said that with the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) of the President, the business community is upbeat on the prospects from the urgent enactment of CREATE More—a priority bill of the government that is meant to attract more FDI and mobilize private investments in priority sectors as provided in the Strategic Investments Priorities Plan (SIPP).

Robust transport key to tourism growth—Bautista

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation said a robust transport sector is critical in attracting more tourists to the Philippines.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said transport projects aimed at moving people en masse are expected to boost tourism.

“Our confidence at expecting more tourist arrivals is based on a robust transport sector,” he said.

Bautista said apart from guaranteed mobility, the agency’s flagship projects would support the country’s national tourism efforts.

“Improving and modernizing our transport systems will be crucial in ensuring tourists enjoy their vacations that start with travel to and from their homes,” he said.

The Department of Tourism is targeting 7.7 million international visitor arrivals this year, up from 5.45 million in 2023.

The Philippines received over 5.45 million international visitor arrivals in 2023, successfully breaching the 4.8 million arrivals target set by the industry.

Bautista cited projects such as the modernization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), Laguinduingan and Bohol-Panglao Airports and the construction of the New Manila International Airport.

The DOTr is also modernizing land transport under the PUV Modernization Program, expanding the country’s bike lanes and the EDSA Busway.

and services within the next four to five years” Pascual said.

Zamboanga City and its surrounding regions, renowned for their rich cultural heritage and historical significance, are poised to become significant players in the trillion-dollar global Halal market.

Key highlights of the event included the relaunch of the Halal Industry Development Strategic Plan and discussions on the need for an Executive Order to further institutionalize support for the Halal industry.

The town hall also featured the recognition of 13 Halal-certified establishments and the awarding of outstanding MSMEs and development partners.

Sanchez also led the launch of a Shared Service Facility (SSF) project to enhance the jewelry fabrication laboratory.

POWER TOUR. Linemen of National Grid Corp. of the Philippines greet President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

LABOR DIALOGUE. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) led by Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma (seated, 4th from right) opens its doors and engages in a dialogue with Kilos Manggagawa, composed of labor leaders and representatives. The workers aired their concerns during the dialogue held at the DOLE Central Office on July 11, 2024 on the process of filing notices of strike, preventive mediation and voluntary arbitration, the exercise of freedom of association and other labor-related matters.

HALAL HUB. Officials of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reaffirm the agency’s commitment to elevating micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by harnessing the immense potential of the Halal industry during the Bagong Pilipinas Town Hall held in Zamboanga City. The DTI outlined a comprehensive strategy to harness the region’s vast potential and capitalize on the global Halal market.

POWER PROFILE

A chip off the old block: Angara expected to elevate PH education

By Jimmy Montejo

“SONNY Angara fi ts the Education chief to a tee.”

Publicist and businessman Dante Vino made this observation on Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Manalang Angara’s appointment as the Department of Education (DepEd) secretary.

The senator succeeds Vice President Sara Duterte who described herself as “designated survivor” after giving up the Education portfolio.

Angara’s background, both as a legislator and educator, is impeccable.

His mother, Gloria Manalang Angara, was a former teacher and later chairperson of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, while his father served as Senate president and president of the state-run University of the Philippines (UP).

Sonny is unquestionably the torch bearer of his father’s legacies, both as a lawyer and lawmaker.

Born on July 15, 1972 in Manila, Sonny initially studied at the Xavier School in San Juan City, Metro Manila, then went to Douai School in England and completed his Bachelor’s degree in International Relations at the London School of Economics.

He eventually finished his law studies at the UP, and earned his Master of Laws degree from the Harvard Law School in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

A throwback to his track records would show that like his parents, Sonny “values education as a tool to fight poverty and ensure social mobility.”

He spearheaded bills that sought greater access to education and scholarships for poor and deserving students, such as the Ladderized Education Act, the Open Learning and Distance Education Act, Youth Entrepreneurship Act, the Unified Student Financial Assistance System Act, the law to include Filipino-Muslim history in the school curriculum and a law requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training before graduation.

For his achievements, Angara was recognized as one of the country’s Ten Outstanding Young Men for govern-

ment service and legislation in 2010.

Angara’s professional career took off in 1991 as a trainee at the Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. in Makati City.

Three years later, he served as an apprentice-member of the Philippine mission to the United Nations in New York. He then worked as an associate lawyer at the Angara Abello Concepcion Regala and Cruz (ACCRA) law firm from 2001 to 2003.

Sonny practices what he teaches—he is a practicing lawyer and a law professor at the New Era University and Centro Escolar University.

The year 2004 saw him winning a congressional seat for the lone district of his home province of Aurora. Being just 31 at the time, he was one of the Benjamins of the 13th Congress, but held the post for three consecutive terms ending in 2013.

As a legislator, Sonny authored several laws without losing sight of the welfare of his constituencies. He also supported the construction of more than 100 classrooms in Aurora, funding the needs of poor patients in at least 12 public hospitals and offered scholarships to deserving students in state universities and colleges.

As a three-term congressman, Angara authored more than 20 bills which were eventually enacted into laws.

Among them were the Anti-Bullying Act, the Philippine National Health Research System Act, the Magna Carta of Women, the Tax Exemption for Minimum Wage Earners Act, the Kindergarten Education Act and the Domestic Workers Act.

Globe Business taps Zscaler to boost security

THE corporate arm of Globe Telecom Inc. said it tapped Zscaler, a global leader in cloud security, to offer robust managed security services.

Globe Business said the collaboration with Zscaler strengthens user access and data protection for businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large corporations. The strategic partnership underscores Globe Business’s commitment to fostering secure digital transformation.

By leveraging Zscaler’s cutting-edge cloud security platform, the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange, businesses get better protection, improved operational efficiency and increased competitiveness.

Globe Business provides managed user and access security that empowers IT teams to efficiently secure user connections to internet resources and private applications.

Zscaler solutions include Zscaler Internet Access (ZIA) which is delivered as a security stack as a service from the cloud. It is designed to eliminate the cost and complexity of traditional secure web gateway approaches and provide easily scaled protection to all offices or users regardless of location, and minimize network and appliance infrastructure. Meanwhile, Zscaler Private Access (ZPA) is a ZTNA-as-a-service that takes a user-centric and application-centric approach to private application access.

A cloud-delivered service, ZPA is built to ensure that only authorized users have access to specific private applications by creating secure segments between individual devices and apps.

“We understand the immense challenges businesses face in navigating the evolving cybersecurity landscape amid rapid digital adoption,” said Angie Po, vice president for product at Globe Business.

“Joining forces with ZScaler allows us to deliver cutting-edge security capabilities coupled with trusted managed services. This powerful combination enables our customers to embrace innovation confidently, knowing their users, applications, and data are comprehensively protected,” she said. Darwin G. Amojelar

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said infrastructure development is key in sustaining the Philippines’ economic growth and fostering inclusion.

NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said in a statement the government is committed to creating an environment conducive to infrastructure development.

“By expanding and upgrading our infrastructure, we aim to create enabling

conditions for high-quality job creation for millions of Filipinos, raise the competitiveness of our local industries, diversify our growth drivers to strengthen economic resilience and enhance regional connectivity by linking our leading and lagging regions,” Balisacan said.

The Philippine Development Plan (PDP) aims to address the challenges plaguing the country’s infrastructure sector, which many observers and analysts perceive as a significant barrier to investment opportunities.

By Ralph Harvey Rirao

TALA Philippines on Saturday held its 13th TALAkayan workshop to boost financial literacy among Filipinos. The event at Trinoma Activity Center featured financial expert Salve Duplito, who offered advice on budgeting, debt management, investing and entrepreneurship. Attendees included aspiring and established entrepreneurs, as well as representatives of micro, small and medium-sized

IN BRIEF

“The Marcos administration was quick to act, and I believe we have made a strong start these past two years. The government enacted and implemented key policy reforms and initiatives to create a more enabling policy and regulatory environment for investment and economic growth,” Balisacan said. Critical to achieving the 5-percent to 6-percent annual target infrastructure spending to GDP is the continued evaluation, approval and rollout of the 185 infrastructure flagship projects (IFPs) under the “Build Better More” program. These game-changing, urgently needed and big-ticket projects spanning various sectors are collectively valued at P9.54 trillion, or about $163 billion. Three projects have already been completed, including the Samar Pacific Coastal Road Project, Integrated Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation Measures in the Low-Lying Areas of Pampanga Bay Project and the Flood Risk Improvement and Management Project for Cagayan de Oro River.

By Jenni er B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said it is consolidating its digital services into a unified platform to bolster online transaction security and streamline automated processes to make digital transactions more secure.

It said in a statement it issued Memorandum Circular No. 10, Series of 2024, outlining guidelines for the Electronic SEC Universal Registration Environment (eSECURE). It said eSECURE acts as a digital gateway for accessing various SEC online services, enabling users to manage SEC ac-

counts and transactions centrally through a single account.

The platform employs risk-based credentialing via an Electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) process and credentialing system. This enhances identification accuracy and trustworthiness of individuals representing corporations using SEC online services.

The eKYC process also plays a crucial role in combating money laundering and terrorist financing through corporate entities.

The credentialing system eliminates the need for wet signatures and notarization of documents submitted to the SEC, enabling digital authentication.

Senator and newly-appointed Education

Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara

Whetting the world’s appetite through tourism

TCebu, and hosted by the Department of Tourism (DOT). The event preceded the 36th Joint Meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and the UN Tourism Commission for South Asia.

These UN Tourism Commission Meetings are considered

member states, UN Tourism Affiliate Members, and international and

regional organizations. Formally opening the event were Lapulapu City Mayor Junard Chan; Director of Basque Culinary Center in Spain Idola Calleja; DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco; and UN Tourism Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili The Opening Ceremony was followed by a Talk on Driving Inclusion and Sustainability of Gastronomy Tourism by Sandra Carvao, UN Tourism Director. A very interesting portion of the day-long event was the Ministerial Dialogue on policies

countries. Proudly waving the Philippine flag higher than expected were our very own Chef Margarita Fores who spoke on “Blending Tourism and Gastronomy for People and Planet”; and culinary book author Clang Garcia who shared some insights on “Gastronomy in Asia Pacific

Discover affordable life insurance plans with BDO Life

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Filipinos should not let the uncertainty about life insurance costs prevent them from getting the coverage they need. BDO Life has launched Get A Quote (GAQ), an online tool that enables them to receive a personalized insurance plan computation and understand the benefits of life insurance.

Here’s how to use BDO Life’s Get A Quote:

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• By specifying an amount they can comfortably afford, they can instantly receive a quote for a tailored insurance plan for themselves or their loved ones.

• Once ready to speak to a BDO Life Financial Advisor, customers can indicate their preferred mode of communication (in-person or virtual) and their location. Get a quote now by visiting www.bdo.com. ph/bdo-life/get-a-quote. Existing policyholders can access BDO Life’s customer portal, a comprehensive platform for managing all aspects of their individual life insurance policy. They can simply log in to the customer portal at www. bdo.com.ph/bdo-life/customer-portal using their active BDO Online App login information. About BDO Life Assurance Company, Inc.

BDO Life is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BDO Unibank, Inc., the country’s largest bank to date. The Company offers a diverse pool of life insurance products suitable to the needs of its clients. BDO Life provides protection, health, education, savings, retirement and estate planning solutions aimed to create a secure future for its individual customers and their families. BDO Life extends comprehensive group term life insurance for corporate clients.

From left: Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, UN Tourism Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili, and chef Miguel Moreno

Chefs Reggie Aspiras (left) and Jessie Sincioco

From left: UN Tourism Director Sandra Carvao, Basque Culinary Center Director Idola Calleja, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, and UN Tourism Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili with the local chefs

Chef Xavier Mercado (second from right) of Halo Halo de Iloko with his team

MONDAY, JULY 15, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

By Nickie Wang

ON Friday night at the Araneta Coliseum, Original Pinoy Music (OPM) was vibrantly alive. It was a big celebration of music and community, showing how much Filipinos love their own music.

As a concertgoer, I was swept away by the deafening cheers from the crowd—a sound I hadn’t heard at a local concert in years. BINI and SB19, in particular, own the stage like the main characters of the show. Their infectious, high-energy tunes and powerful hits whipped the crowd into a frenzy. It makes me believe that one of these days, either of these groups could confidently say “you’re the best crowd in the world” while performing at their homecourt, a phrase usually reserved for foreign artists performing in the Philippines.

By Angelica Villanueva

ACTRESS and content creator Ivana Alawi will be leaving Batang Quiapo due to previous commitments, clarifying that her decision is unrelated to any perceived attitude issues, as stated by her manager Perry Lansigan

“From the very start, Ivana was only supposed to stay in the show for three months. Both parties agreed upon this,” Perry said.

The talent manager also explained that Ivana’s role, Bubbles, was extended due to the chemistry between her character and Coco Martin ’s Tanggol, but her schedule eventually became too hectic to accommodate both Batang Quiapo and her other commitments.

“Ivana has prior commitments, such as shoots and vlogs, that her management has already scheduled. We’ve tried to adjust her schedule, but it’s just not possible anymore,” he added.

The manager also denied rumors that Ivana has already had her last taping for the show.

Rumors also suggested that actress Kim Domingo would be replacing Ivana as Coco’s leading lady. However, in his latest vlog, entertainment columnist Ogie Diaz shared that there is “something” between the two actresses.

“ Parang may something-an itong si Kim Domingo

in succession

Painting the Big Dome green

audience at Puregold’s Nasa Atin ang

Thanksgiving Concert in the

and

was

the show the music event of the year and a tough act to follow. The concert, which opened at 7:30, featured exceptional performances and surprise collaborations from SB19, BINI, Flow G, and SunKissed Lola. OPM fans were treated to special appearances by Gloc-9 and

During BINI’s “Salamin, Salamin” number, SB19 member Justin surprised the crowd by dancing with the girl group.

“Memorize niya! Walang nagturo. He did not need us,” BINI member Maloi told the crowd right after the performance.

Similarly, the Big Dome erupted in cheers when BINI members Colet, Sheena, Gwen, and Stacey joined the P-pop Kings for their hit “Gento.”

Meanwhile, SB19’s Pablo Ken, and Josh teamed up with Flow G during his performance of “High Score.” Skusta Clee and Gloc-9 also took the stage with Flow G.

The concert also had an impressive lineup of opening acts, including Letters from June, Esay, and Kahel, who wowed the audience with their unique sounds.

“The Nasa Atin Ang Panalo Thanksgiving concert is a big milestone for Puregold. Celebrating 25 years and 500 stores, we have paved the way for others to create their own Panalo stories. This event is our way of thanking our loyal shoppers and the community that helped us reach this point,” Puregold Price Club Inc. President Vincent Co shared in a statement after the show.

MARIS Racal has been trending for days not only because of her sudden announcement that she and longtime boyfriend Rico Blanco have called it quits.

During the Star Magic Spotlight event held in Quezon City, the 25-yearold actress was forced to speak up after being asked questions about Rico was of her career and her love team with ‘cause if I announce it, then it’s real. But yeah, Rico and I are over,” Maris said while trying to hold back her tears. Before her revelation, Maris was very enthusiastic talking Marupok A+ , a movie directed by Quark Henares The film revolves around the use of catfishing in the online dating world and also stars EJ Jallorina Royce Cabrera “Yes, I’m marupok

Alawi is Bubbles in ‘Batang Quiapo’

management has commented on the issue yet.

Several of the finest OPM acts share the stage for the concert SunKissed Lola serenades the crowd with their hit songs Flow G (left) and Gloc-9 (right) show off their rap skills

Members of the P-pop girl group BINI dazzle the crowd with their captivating dance moves and stunning vocals

MUSIC’S PURE GOLD. The P-pop kings perform their hits

to the delight of their adoring fans

The

Panalo

Big Dome

thunderous

full of energy, making

Skusta Clee, too.

SB19 joins Flow G to perform the rapper’s ‘High Score’

SA PPAN SAMA-SAMA

SA NUTRISYONG SAPAT PARA SA LAHAT

50th NUTRITION MONTH

National Nutrition Month unites Filipinos to promote food security

By Patricia Taculao-Deligero

GOOD nutrition has emerged as a pivotal pillar of nation-building in the Philippines. The health and potential of a nation are intricately tied to the well-being of its people. A balanced intake of essential vitamins and minerals not only fuels physical health, but also drives cognitive development, productivity, and overall well-being.

However, the Philippines continues to grapple with issues of malnutrition, particularly among children. Stunting, a condition caused by chronic malnutrition in early childhood, affects a significant portion of the population. It hinders physical growth and impairs brain development, impacting learning abilities and future earning potential. By prioritizing proper nutrition, especially during the crucial first 1,000 days of life, the Philippines can invest in its future generations, fostering a healthier, more cognitively adept citizenry. Investing in nutrition is an investment in the nation’s future. A well-nourished population is not only healthier, but also more productive. By ensuring a balanced diet for its people, the Philippines can empower its citizens to contribute their full potential to the nation’s progress, driving economic growth and innovation.

Every July, the Philippines dedicates a month to raising awareness about the vital role nutrition plays in the lives of its citizens. This year’s National Nutrition Month, with the theme “Sa PPAN: Samasama sa Nutrisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat!” (Together in the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition: Sufficient Nutrition for All!) takes on even greater significance. The focus on the Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (PPAN) underscores the ongoing struggle for food security and a balanced diet for all Filipinos.

National Nutrition Month serves as a crucial platform to address issues of hunger and malnutrition. By promoting the PPAN (Philippine Plan of Action), a comprehensive strategy that outlines interventions across various life stages, the month-long celebration aims to empower Filipinos to make informed choices about their diets. Public awareness campaigns highlight the importance of consuming a diverse range of nutrient-rich foods, from “Go” foods (staples like rice and corn) to “Grow” foods (protein sources like meat and fish) and “Glow” foods (fruits and vegetables). This focus on a balanced diet aligns perfectly with the PPAN’s goals, creating a unified message that resonates throughout the nation.

Looking back at history

National Nutrition Month draws roots in the country’s fight against malnutrition. It all began in 1974 with the signing of Presidential Decree 491, also known as the Nutrition Act of the Philippines. This landmark legislation established the National Nutrition Council (NNC) as the leading body overseeing and coordinating a national program to address nutritional concerns. After the government recognized the need for sustained public awareness, the same year saw the birth of National Nutrition Month. Celebrated every July, it aims to highlight the importance of proper nutrition for Filipinos of all ages. This annual campaign has become a cornerstone in promoting healthy eating habits and tackling malnutrition, a challenge the Philippines has grappled with for decades.

The observance of National Nutrition Month has evolved over the years. Each year features a specific theme that reflects current priorities and areas of focus. From encouraging homegrown vegetables to

emphasizing the role of diverse food sources, the themes highlight strategies to improve the nutritional well-being of the Filipino population. National Nutrition Month continues to be a vital platform for education, advocacy, and community engagement, empowering Filipinos to make informed choices for a healthier future. Advocating nutrition in every industry

Following this year’s theme, each sector in the Philippines, from everyday citizens to public leaders, can significantly promote good nutrition for present and future generations. It’s a collective responsibility that we all share, and by working together, we can make a significant impact on the nation’s health and well-being. Individuals can be powerful agents of change. Start by embracing healthy eating habits at home, planning balanced meals with local, seasonal produce, and practicing mindful portion control. Share recipes and knowledge with friends and families, creating a ripple effect of healthy choices. Your actions can inspire others and contribute to a healthier future for all.

Meanwhile, schools and universities can play a vital role in educating the next generation. By integrating nutrition education into curriculums and organizing workshops and seminars, they can ensure that students and their families are well-informed about the importance of good nutrition. This knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight against malnutrition.

Although everyday, Filipinos and the academe can take the necessary steps to learn about nutrition and raise awareness, a more significant effort can stem from public

initiatives. LGUs are at the forefront of implementing national programs on the ground. They can invest in nutrition programs, particularly those targeting pregnant women and children in the first 1,000 days of life. They can conduct community gardening initiatives that promote local food production and increase access to fresh produce. LGUs can also regulate food vendors and promote healthy options within their jurisdictions.

LGUs can even find support from businesses or private institutions. Companies can contribute by promoting responsible advertising practices, especially when targeting children. They can offer healthy food choices in canteens and cafeterias and incentivize employees to adopt healthy lifestyles. Private organizations can also partner with NGOs and government agencies to sponsor community outreach programs and educational campaigns focused on nutrition.

However, more Filipinos will embrace the concept of good nutrition based on nationwide government efforts. After all, the national government plays a crucial role in setting policies and allocating resources. Continued support for the PPAN is essential. The government can also invest in agricultural infrastructure, promote sustainable farming practices, and collaborate with international organizations to address food insecurity challenges. National Nutrition Month isn’t just about individual dietary choices; it’s also about advocating for accessible and affordable nutritious food for all. The PPAN recognizes the link between poverty and malnutrition, and the month’s activities aim to raise awareness about the need for government and private sector support in ensuring food security for the most vulnerable populations.

METRO

Manila’s condominium sector continues to show resilience despite shifting trends and evolving buyer preferences, favouring residential projects outside the country’s capital.

Based on latest data from real estate consultancy firm Leechiu Property Consultants. residential condominium sales rose by 6.5 percent during the second quarter of 2024. This growth coincided with a 30 percent increase in new project launches, including six fresh additions to the preselling inventory, highlighting renewed investor confidence in the capital’s urban property market. However, residential real estate loans (RRELs) granted for new housing units in residential projects located in Metro Manila declined by 31 percent in the first quarter of the year. Loans for single detached houses

Metro Manila residential market shows resilience amidst regional shifts

Tagaytay–Batangas Expressway in the south of Metro Manila.

Golez said developers are also land banking in Bulacan where the future international airport is being built as well as the North-South commuter railway from Clark to Laguna.

“Looking ahead, there is high potential demand for township developments north of Metro Manila. With the bulk of demand shifting outside Metro Manila, developers will adopt a more cautious approach to launching new condominium developments in the capital region while reducing current inventory,” Golez said.

Allure of Metro Manila

Reverse Migration

were the highest this quarter at 43 percent, showing only minimal change from the previous quarter, while loans for condominium units declined to 34.7 percent from 42.6 percent in fourth quarter of 2023. On the other hand, RRELs for residential projects outside Metro Manila experienced a modest 2 percent increase in over the same period. This divergence underscores a broader trend of decentralization, as homebuyers and developers alike explore opportunities beyond the bustling confines of Metro Manila.

1001 Parkway Residences marks first concrete pouring

1001 Parkway Residences, a high-rise residential complex situated in Filinvest City, Alabang, and part of Filinvest Land’s prestigious Filigree collection, recently achieved significant milestones.

The first concrete pouring ceremony marked a pivotal moment in the project’s journey from conceptualization to tangible realization.

Additionally, 1001 Parkway Residences earned a coveted 5-star rating for Best High-Rise Architecture in the Philippines at the 2024 Asia Pacific Property Awards. This recognition underscores its iconic design, modern amenities, and meticulously planned units, showcasing Filinvest Alabang Incorporated’s vision of blending contemporary urban living seamlessly with natural surroundings.

“This concrete pouring signifies a major stride forward for us. It reaffirms our dedication to enhancing urban life, while our recent 5-star accolade from the Asia Pacific Property Awards validates our approach. This milestone isn’t just about construction; it’s about nurturing a vibrant, healthy community,” said Daphne Sanchez, head of Filigree. 1001 Parkway Residences embodies modern living in harmony with nature through its biophilic design and distinctive vertical garden architecture. Its upcoming “wave” facade, expansive cantilevered balconies, and terraces extend Filinvest City’s green

spaces vertically, integrating urban vitality with lush environments. Every unit features balconies and floor-to-ceiling glazing, enhancing aesthetics and fostering residents’ connection to nature, thereby enriching their overall living experience.

“Promoting green spaces and sustainable living is crucial for cultivating healthier, more vibrant communities. 1001 Parkway Residences exemplifies this commitment, blending innovative design with eco-friendly features to create a harmonious environment within its garden-tower residences. Here, residents enjoy a perfect blend of modern luxury and natural beauty, with lush landscapes and energy-efficient systems at their doorstep,” Sanchez emphasized.

An intriguing aspect of this trend is the reverse migration, as indicated by data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Increasingly, residents are seeking housing solutions outside Metro Manila, drawn by more affordable options offered by township developments.

These projects promise city-like conveniences without the perennial challenges of traffic congestion, making provincial areas increasingly attractive for property investment and residential settlement.

LPC director Roy Golez said property developers are already positioning their projects in areas where upcoming infrastructure projects are located such as the CaviteLaguna Expressway and Cavite–

Looking ahead, LPC said the future of Metro Manila’s condominium market remains intertwined with economic dynamics such as sustained job creation, particularly in the IT-BPM sector, and robust remittances from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). However, sector’s future trajectory hinges on embracing geographic expansion and adapting to changing buyer demands.

The much anticipated rate cut is also expected to boost the residential market.

“We are excited about the rate cuts, which we are anticipating for much too long. That will have positive effect over the near term and long term for the all the sectors of the property market,” LPC director Tam Angel said.

Kids take charge in Sevina Park Open House

most sustainable masterplanned community of Sevina Park in Biñan, Laguna.

This All-Children Open House at Sevina Park is the first initiative of its kind in the local property industry and is meant to highlight how Sevina Park, the first and only community in Southeast Asia to achieve Platinum certification for both LEED for neighborhood development and is the very first to receive the BERDE

Districts 5-Star rating, is the most idyllic place to raise a family. Sevina Park is a sustainable, closeknit neighborhood of eco-friendly properties promoting a sustainable way of living. One such development is the Sevina Park Villas, which feature two-,three- or four-bedroom limited-edition designer villas by renowned architectural practice Leandro V. Locsin and Partners. During the tour, the kids explained that all Villas are equipped with efficient building envelope and insulation, low-emissivity glass windows, efficient lighting, energy and water fixtures, Wi-Fi enabled, and home automation ready. The four-bedroom villa have

Federal Land and Fast Retailing Philippines breaks ground on Uniqlo’s logistics facility in Cavite

FEDERAL Land NRE Global Inc. (FNG) and Fast Retailing Philippines celebrated a significant occasion with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Uniqlo’s logistics facility at Riverpark North, Cavite.

FNG is a joint venture between Federal Land Inc. (FLI) of the Philippines and Nomura Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. (NRE) of Japan, while Fast Retailing Philippines represents the Philippine arm of the global company that operates multiple fashion brands, including Uniqlo. Together, these

firms are redefining logistics operations by prioritizing worker wellbeing and environmental sustainability at the upcoming Uniqlo logistics facility.

In early 2024, FNG and Fast Retailing Philippines forged an agreement to establish a logistics facility for Uniqlo.

Fast Retailing Philippines identified Riverpark North, Cavite as the optimal location for its new facility, underscoring the area’s strategic significance in its logistics network. Emerging as the “Next Gen City

of the South,” Riverpark is intended to be a key economic and industrial center that offers smart living and lifestyle-enhancing developments within a river and parkside setting. Designed to exemplify future Filipino living, it is seamlessly transforming into a dynamic community, thanks to many recent developments including Yume at Riverpark, an 18-hectare, Japanese-inspired residential neighborhood; Riverpark Trails,