House to probe illegal POGOs
Senators hopeful Marcos will declare total ban in SONA
By Maricel Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta
THE House of Representatives will conduct a parallel investigation in aid of legislation into the illegal activities of POGOs as the Senate intensifies its manhunt on suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo and other individuals linked to the offshore gaming operations.
Sta. Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez, chair of the House committee on public order and safety, said his panel together with the House games and amusements committee will conduct the hearing on Wednesday upon instruction from Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Fernandez said the joint House panel invited the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., National Bureau of
By Alena Mae Flores
POWER rates will increase by more than P2 this month due to higher generation charge as pump prices decline after four weeks of price hikes.
Meralco said its customers can expect a P2.1496 per kilowatt hour increase in electricity rates in July following artificially low rates last month.
By Rex Espiritu, Macon Ramos-Araneta and Vito Barcelo
Ocampo, Castro convicted in child abuse case
The power rate hike will bring the overall rate for a typical household to P11.6012 from P9.4516 per kWh in June.
Meanwhile, oil firms rolled back fuel prices at 6 a.m. today (Tuesday), ending four weeks of consecutive price increases. Diesel prices went down by P0.95 per liter, gasoline by P0.60 per liter, and kerosene by P1.15 per liter to reflect the movement of prices in the
By Rex Espiritu
THE Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is now on red alert following a massive flooding that affected thousands of residents, the BARMM Information Office said on Monday.
The state weather bureau, meanwhile, reported a low-pressure area over the east of Mindanao will continue to bring
world market last week. Domestic pump prices rose for four consecutive weeks prior to the rollback for a total of P4.80 per liter increase in the prices of diesel and gasoline, and P3.90 per liter increase in kerosene.
Year-to-date total adjustment of gasoline, diesel and kerosene stood at a net increase of P10.85 per liter, P9.05 per liter and P2.35 per liter, respectively.
DONALD Trump returns to the campaign trail as the star of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee – a gathering meant to fire up the grassroots that has instead been overshadowed by the weekend attempt on his life. The 78-year-old former president is carrying Republican hopes into
moderate to heavy rains in Caraga, Southern Leyte, and Eastern Samar on July 17. Should the LPA develop into a tropical cyclone within 24 to 48 hours, it would be named “Butchoy.”
The Bangsamoro Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council raised the alert due to the rapid escalation of the emergency, aggravated by the effects of the southwest monsoon.
November's election and, days after an assassin's bullets flew by him, is set to be anointed as the party's champion to face his Democratic successor, Joe Biden.
Some 50,000 Republicans are descending on the shores of Lake Michigan for the four-day celebration
By Maimona Wanda Lao, Maricel Cruz and Rex Espiritu
NUMBER CRUNCHING. President Marcos presides over the 19th National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Monday, July 15, 2024. PPA Pool
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Investigation, Department of Justice, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force, the League of Cities of the Philippines, and the League of Municipalities of the Philippines.
He said the joint panel will conduct a "comprehensive" legislative investigation on the issue to find out "criminal elements and persons involved" in the illegal POGO operations in the country.
Meanwhile, senators have expressed hope that President Marcos will declare a total ban on POGOs during his State of the Nation Address on July 22.
"During the President's SONA, I hope that they will announce the immediate ban on POGOs in the Philippines,” said Senator Risa
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Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada also urged all government agencies with police power to join the manhunt for Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, whom he said is at the center of the probe into POGO criminal acts.
Over the weekend, the Office of the Senate Sergeant at Arms started tracking Guo, five of the mayor's family members—her biological parents Wenyi Lin and Jian Zhong Guo, her brothers Seimen Guo and Wesley Guo and sister Shiela Guo —as well as Guo's accountant Nancy Gamo and the former head of the now defunct Technology and Livelihood Resource Center Dennis Cunanan.
Gamo was arrested Saturday and
Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, when they held a group of tribal youths and made them walk down a dangerous path in Talaingod, Davao del Norte in November 2018.
The court sentenced the group to four to six years imprisonment and ordered them to pay P10,000 as civil indemnity and P10,000 as moral damages to each of the 14 minors involved.
Sentenced alongside Ocampo and Castro were Ma. Eugenia Victoria Nolasco, Jesus Madamo, Meriro Poquita, Maricel Andagkit, Marcial Rendon, Marianie Aga, Jenevive Paraba, Nerhaya Talledo, Ma. Concepcion Ibarra, Nerfa Awing, Wingwing Daunsay.
In its decision, the court said the prosecution established proof beyond
From A1 of all things Trump, culminating in his acceptance speech on Thursday. Before that, Trump will unveil his vice-presidential pick, a high-stakes moment that could set the tone for the final stretch of his campaign.
Yet the Trump shooting is really the only story in town.
Much of the buzz around the
Hontiveros, who has been leading the Senate probe into the raided POGO hubs across the country.
Senator Aquilino Pimentel III said it would be a good political move for the President to announce a total ban.
“Maybe he would surprise us. I am sure his approval rating will shoot up if he announces in his SONA that he is now banning completely all POGO activities in the Philippines. That will be a very good political move,” Pimentel said in an interview on dzBB
This developed as joint operatives of the National Bureau of InvestigationMimaropa and the Philippine Army on Monday raided a suspected POGO hub in a resort in Puerto Galera in Mindoro Oriental.
But Puerto Galera Mayor Rocky Ilagan denied the resort was involved with POGOs.
“If it is a POGO, then I should know. I will not allow the operation of
is detained at the Senate until the next session scheduled for July 29.
PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said police chiefs in areas where the accused individuals have addresses have been alerted.
"As for the arrest warrants issued against Mayor Alice Guo and her other associates, the PNP provided security assistance to the personnel of the Senate Sergeant at Arms last weekend.
But as we speak, I don't have any information whether there was another attempt to serve these warrants of arrest," she added.
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, said the connection of Michael Yang's brother to a company of Mayor Guo will boost her assertion that some POGOs are "One Big Happy Pharmally”—a reference to
reasonable doubt that “the accused committed acts detrimental to the safety and well-being of the minor Lumad learners.”
Meanwhile, the other respondents —Edgar Ugal, Ryan Magpayo, Eller Ordeniza and Jurie Jaime – were acquitted because “the prosecution has failed to prove their guilt beyond reasonable doubt.”
In a joint statement, Ocampo and Castro said the court had “wrongfully convicted” them.
The two insisted they only intended to "rescue" the children, noting that the court did not look into the testimony of threats, harassment, and forced closure of Lumad schools.
“This wrongful conviction speaks of the continuing persecution of those who are helping and advocating for the rights of Lumad children and the persistent attacks on Lumad schools and communities.”
For his part, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla highlighted the
made-for-TV convention moments has been eclipsed by the fallout from Saturday's assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania, in which Trump was wounded and one attendee was killed.
There was talk of a postponement of the convention, but Trump has insisted that the show must go on, vowing to be "defiant in the face of wickedness."
"I'm not supposed to be here, I'm supposed to be dead," Trump told the
a POGO in that resort,” Ilagan said. The operatives arrested 40 Chinese nationals, including the resort owner who is Chinese, along with other foreign nationals.
They also confiscated gambling paraphernalia such as baccarat tables and poker tables, among others.
Economic managers earlier recommended a total ban on POGOs, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said. Recto said the recommendation was contained in a letter sent to President Marcos.
''We did write a letter because we were asked to make a recommendation. It's up to the President to make the decision,'' Recto said.
National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan also expressed support for the total ban despite a potential revenue loss of as much as P20 billion.
the Pharmally company that was implicated in a multi-billion scandal during the past administration.
Hontiveros said a report from the Anti-Money Laundering Council showed that the Baofu compound owned by Guo where the Hongsheng POGO is located has a direct transaction in the joint account of Hongjiang Yang and Yu Zheng Can.
Hongjiang Yang is a brother of Michael Yang, the financier of Pharmally Biological Company Inc. and a former economic adviser of exPresident Rodrigo Duterte, she said.
"In short, the money of Michael Yang's brother was used to fund Hongsheng, the POGO raided in Bamban, Tarlac," Hontiveros said.
But Raymund Fortun, Michael Yang’s legal counsel, said he does not know Hongjiang Yang.
"I don't even know that Michael has a brother," he added.
importance of the development, saying “this ruling underscores the commitment of our judiciary to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of our most vulnerable citizens, especially children.”
“We urge all parties involved to respect the court's decision and the due process that has been followed,” Remulla said.
"While the accused may pursue appeals or other legal actions, it is imperative that these efforts remain within the bounds of decency and propriety. We must respect our courts, our legal system, and the law itself. Any attempt to undermine public trust in our judicial process through inappropriate statements or actions will not be tolerated,” he added.
The DOJ also commended the Tagum Prosecution Office and the prosecutors for their dedication and hard work.
At the House of Representatives, the Makabayan Bloc condemned the court’s decision.
New York Post in an interview aboard his plane en route to Milwaukee.
"By luck or by God... I'm still here," he added. Riding high in the polls despite a cascade of indictments, and his first conviction, the tycoon appears on course for victory as Biden, 81, faces calls from his own side to quit the race over concerns around his mental capabilities.
With the shock of Saturday's violence fresh in delegates' minds, all
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The death toll in the massive flooding also rose to eight with the drowning of a 22-year-old male in Pagalungan, Maguindanao del Sur on Sunday.
Benjamin Alip, municipal disaster officer of Pagalungan, said in a radio interview Monday the victim tried to rescue his cow in Barangay Damalasak.
Pagalungan was among the 22 of 24 towns in Maguindanao del Sur that were submerged by floodwaters following heavy downpour, which also affected neighboring North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Maguindanao del Norte provinces.
The most affected town of Matanog reported that five children perished due to flash floods on July 9 while two residents of Balabagan and Kapatagan towns in Lanao del Sur also died after they were swept away by rampaging floodwaters.
Affected barangays had already reached 343, displacing some 94,395 families.
“It may be a big number, but the cost and particularly social cost of POGOs are quite high," Balisacan said.
"We are trying to position our country as a legitimate place for business where we are trying to attract investors to come, tourists to come and so the least that we want is, to have a reputation. The criminals are still here," he added.
While the executive debates its pros and cons, several local governments have unilaterally banned POGO activities within their borders.
The Batangas City Council was the latest among them when it went ahead and passed a resolution prohibiting all POGOs amid growing security concerns around such operations.
POGO operations were earlier banned in Valenzuela City and the entire province of Bulacan, among other jurisdictions.
A presentation by Hontiveros during a Zoom interview showed that during the Duterte administration, Michael Yang and Hongjiang Yang both attended a Chinese Communist Party-sponsored conference in Beijing for overseas nationals as Philippine representatives of the All China Federation of Returned Overseas.
"What's scary is that it really appears that Guo was really connected with a bigger syndicate," Hontivero said.
Hontiveros also noted that Hongjiang Yang is an incorporator of Full Win Group of Companies where Gerald Cruz is an incorporator. Cruz is also an incorporator of Pharmally Biological Company Inc.
"The same Gerald Cruz is also an incorporator of the POGO Brickhartz Technology Inc., whose documents were found during the Bamban raid," the senator said.
Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas condemned what she termed was an "unjust" conviction of her fellow Makabayan lawmakers.
"This is not only unacceptable but a glaring manifestation of the persisting culture of injustice today. We demand accountability from former President Rodrigo Duterte and the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) for endangering the lives of indigenous children," she added.
On the other hand, NTF-ELCAC Executive Director and Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. said: “Justice has been served. This is a victory for the indigenous people in Talaingod, Davao del Norte who have endured so much exploitation and abuse.”
“Satur and Castro were given their day in court. They were assisted by a battalion of lawyers and their case was found wanting. They should accept the court’s decision because we are a nation of laws and not of men,” he added.
eyes will be on Trump's acceptance speech, with some US media outlets reporting that his brush with death had persuaded him to soften the edges.
Trump told the NYP that he had "prepared an extremely tough speech" about Biden's "horrible administration. But I threw it away" for one he hopes will "unite our country."
But having survived a horrific attack that many Republicans have sought to blame on "over-the-top" anti-Trump rhetoric, the ex-president
The government has sent financial aid and relief supplies to families affected by the southwest monsoon in Matanong over the weekend, the Department of Social Welfare and Development said.
In Matanog, 76 residents with partially damaged houses received P5,000 each, totaling P380,000, while 286 residents with completely damaged houses received P10,000 each, amounting to P2.86 million. Burial assistance of P10,000 was also given to two beneficiaries.
At the Balabagan Evacuation Center, 157 residents with partially damaged houses received P5,000 each, totaling P785,000, while 10 residents with completely damaged houses received P 10,000 each, totaling P100,000. Burial assistance of P10,000 was also provided to two residents. Rio N. Araja, Charles Dantes
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Meralco said residential customers consuming an average of 200 kWh will have an equivalent increase of around P430 in their total electricity bill.
Energy Regulatory Commission chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta said the higher rates in July was “higher than expected.”
“The bulk of Meralco’s supply comes from its IPPs (Independent Power Producers). Admittedly, though, the P2.0021 per kWh generation rate increase is higher than expected. In any event, the rates are subject to the Commission’s validation pursuant to our cost adjustment regulations,”Dimalanta said. For his part, Meralco vice president and head of corporate communications Joe Zaldarriaga appealed for understanding over the delayed delivery of electric bills as the company sought guidance from the ERC on the implementation of this month’s rate adjustment.
“Rest assured that Meralco will adjust the due dates to give our customers enough time to settle their bills,” he said. The higher July rates followed a significant reduction in rates amounting to P1.9623 per kilowatt hour in June.
According to Meralco, the generation charge went up in July by P2.0021 per kWh as charges at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) returned to normal levels as a result of the ERC’s directive to stagger the collection of the charges for the May supply month in four equal monthly installments until September 2024.
will have to rein in the instinct to settle scores.
The attempt on his life has revived fears over political violence, but most of the important party business at conventions takes place behind a security ring of steel anyway, and Milwaukee is no different.
"We're fully prepared and have a comprehensive security plan in place, and we're ready to go," said Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, the Secret Service's RNC coordinator. AFP
DESPERATE ATTEMPT. Residents try to salvage their belongings on Monday, a day after a fourth alarm fire hit residential areas at Barangay 5 and 7 in
Cavite City. Some 3,000 affected residents are currently taking shelter at the Dalahican Elementary School Norman Cruz
NEWS IN BRIEF
Warning on possible Kanlaon huge eruption
KANLAON Volcano, located in Negros Island, has experienced increased chances of eruptive activity, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.
In an advisory issued early morning on Monday, Phivolcs said Mount Kanlaon’s edifice is inflated. Alert Level 2 is maintained since Kanlaon Volcano’s “moderately explosive eruption” that lasted six minutes on June 3 at 6:51 p.m.
“This is a notice of ongoing increased ground deformation changes at Kanlaon Volcano,” the Department of Science and TechnologyPhivolcs advisory read.
“Considering that volcanic earthquake activity and elevated volcanic sulfur dioxide emission persists, the latest changes in ground deformation parameters could further indicate that magmatic intrusion beneath the edifice may be taking place, warning of increased chances of eruptive activity taking place,” it said.
“This means there is current unrest driven by shallow magmatic processes that could eventually lead to explosive eruptions or even precede hazardous magmatic eruption at the summit crater,” it warned. Rio N. Araja
CHR condemns
death of cadet in Laguna
THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Monday strongly denounced the death of Cadet Vince Andrew Delos Reyes, a 19-year-old maritime academy cadet in Calamba, Laguna, reportedly due to severe physical exercise imposed by his upper-class men.
“The Commission has zero tolerance for such actions. Such practices not only jeopardize the physical well-being of the student but also violate their dignity and rights,” chairperson Richard P. Palpal-latoc said.
The CHR called for a swift and thorough investigation into Delos Reyes’ death, appealing to authorities to ensure justice for the victim’s family.
Its Region 4 office took cognizance of the incident and conducted its own motu propio investigation. Delos Reyes accidentally sent a thumbs up emoji in the group chat of the cadet corps, allegedly displeasing his senior. Rio N. Araja
Nine victims rescued from kidney trafficking
SEVERAL suspects involved in a kidney organ trafficking ring in San Jose Del Monte City, Bulacan, have been arrested, the Department of Justice (DOJ) reported.
In a statement, the DOJ also said nine victims were rescued during the operation.
The DOJ and operatives of the National Bureau of Investigation, in collaboration with the Philippine National Police, and local social workers, conducted the rescue operation on July 11.
“During the operation, the perpetrators were apprehended while attempting to deliver payments to one of the victims,” the DOJ said.
“They were arrested for their involvement in harboring, and maintaining the victims for organ trafficking purposes,” it added. The kidneys of four rescued victims had already been extracted and sold.
The DOJ said the perpetrators were brought to the NBI office for proper booking, fingerprinting, and photographing. The rescued victims were turned over to the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking.
DA extends import ban on onions until August
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Monday an extension of the ban on onion imports until August, with potential for further extensions depending on domestic supply.
DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said that current domestic onion production is sufficient, eliminating the need for imports in the meantime.
“There’s no need to import onions. For now, until August,” the DA chief said in an ambush interview.
“We’re monitoring everything closely.
As of the moment, we don’t need to import onions. But we will extend the ban monthly, for now until August,” he said.
The agency will conduct a day-to-day monitoring, the official added.
and
Tiu Laurel warned traders not to engage in hoarding, emphasizing that imports will be allowed if artificial shortages are detected.
“There may be unscrupulous traders or businessmen out there who will tighten their release of stocks,” Tiu Laurel said.
The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) projects that domestic onion supply will meet demand through early 2025, ensuring market stability.
According to July 12 data of the DA’s Bantay Presyo, red onion sells for P80
to P150 a kilo while white onions are sold starting from P60 to P130 a kilo.
The year 2024 has seen a 40 percent increase in onion planting areas, with Central Luzon being a major contributor. Monthly consumption estimates are at 4,000 metric tons for white onions and 17,000 metric tons for red onions.
The DA remains committed to monitoring the onion market closely and implementing measures to maintain price stability and protect both consumers and farmers.
The existing import ban is set to expire by the end of July.
As of July 5, the country has 152,839.25 metric tons (MT) of red onions, 10,601.42 MT of yellow onions, and 63 MT of shallots, according to the DA.
The country’s onion inventory may last eight months or until February 2025.
By Joel E. Zurbano
THE Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) announced that the Ninoy Aquino International Airport - Terminal 3 will experience warmer temperatures from 9 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, to 9 a.m. the following day due to the installation of six new cooling towers.
THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Monday assured teachers that performance bonuses for 2023 and 2024 will be released despite the issuance of Executive Order (EO) No. 61. EO 61 mandates the review of the Result-Based Performance Management System (RBPMS) and the Performance-Based Incentive System (PBIS) for public school teachers.
The assurance was made by DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman during a forum with the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC), led by its chairperson Benjo Basas, according to a DBM news release.
The historic first meeting between the DBM and the TDC went over the status of the performancebased bonuses (PBB) for FY 2022, the impact of EO 61 on the PBB and Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI), the results of the DBMGCG (Governance Commission for Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations) studies, and developments on proposed salary increase for FY 2024.
The meeting was a significant step to address concerns on teacher salary hikes and incentives after the TDC urgently sought clarification on these issues in a letter sent to Pangandaman last July 4.
During the meeting, Pangandaman assured that DBM is working closely with the Department of Education (DepEd) to solve implementation issues related to the PBB, and ensure that all necessary requirements are met for the bonus distribution.
The airport management expects around 27,000 arriving and departing passengers on 117 flights may experience discomfort due to reduced air circulation during the 12-hour interruption. This will occur when the new cooling tower piping is connected to the main piping lines of the chiller plant. The MIAA is in the final steps of installing new cooling towers to resolve issues of inadequate cooling at the terminal. Earlier this year, MIAA acquired the new cooling towers that will be strategically installed to optimize piping infrastructure, thereby upgrading and significantly improving the overall system efficiency of the air conditioning system in Terminal 3.
“To accomplish this, the centralized cooling system will be temporarily shut down to facilitate the works,” said MIAA general manager Eric Ines. Ines added that during the
MORE than 300 former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in the islands of Negros and Panay have registered for the government’s amnesty program, the Philippine Army said on Sunday.
Through the assistance from the line battalions of the 302nd and 303rd Infantry Brigades, the National Amnesty Commission’s Local Amnesty Board (LAB)-Bacolod processed the application of 210 former rebels in Negros Island at the Bacolod City College campus. While the 301st Infantry Brigade at Camp General Adriano Hernandez in Dingle town assisted 90 former rebels in Panay Island.
3ID Commander Major General Marion Sison
again urged the remaining CPP-NPA members to “surrender, leave their past behind, and choose peaceful and productive lives.”
The Army reported all five guerrilla fronts of the CPP-NPA have been dismantled in Negros province, while only one rebel front is operating in Panay province. Rex Espiritu
The NAC on Monday announced that its existing amnesty boards have received a total of 578 amnesty applications as of July 12.
In a news release, the agency said 497 of the applicants are former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA- NDF). Rex Espiritu
PISTON ACTION. Ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA)on July 22, members of the transport group PISTON held a press conference at the Commission on Human Rights in Quezon City to air their grievances on public transportation. Manny Palmero
Senator eyes sea hospital for Navy, PCG
By Macon Ramos-Araneta
SENATE Majority Leader Francis Tolentino eyes a floating hospital that would serve the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard.
“It is high time for the Philippines, an archipelagic nation, to have its own ‘floating hospital’ –
just like other countries,” Tolentino said. He added that the floating hospi-
tal could be immediately deployed in cases of medical emergencies in the high seas to attend to sick or injured soldiers and fishermen.
He cited the case of Robert Mondoñedo, one of the two fishermen whose banca capsized last week after colliding with a foreign commercial vessel in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“It had to take hours before Robert was brought to a medical facility after
he was rescued by the coast guard,” Tolentino lamented.
He also cited a recent case involving a sick soldier who had to be evacuated from the BRP Sierra Madre, a decommissioned warship that serves as a Philippine Navy outpost in the Ayungin Shoal.
According to him, the floating hospital could also be mobilized to coastal and island communities during disasters like typhoons.
He recalled how military vessels from other countries, including hospital ships, were among the first to respond and deliver assistance to communities devastated by Typhoon Yolanda in 2013.
“If we only had a floating hospital, then our soldier could have been treated right there. We do not need to evacuate and bring him over to Palawan,” Tolentino explained.
Speaker’s aid caravan keeps rolling across Leyte
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE ongoing aid caravan in Leyte
By Maricel Cruz
A PARTY-LIST lawmaker on Monday welcomed the Commission on Elections
(Comelec) chairman George Erwin Garcia’s commitment to cooperate in the upcoming House of Representatives probe of the mysterious million-dollar offshore bank accounts that appear to be connected to the poll body’s P18-billion deal with South Korean firm Miru Systems Co. Ltd. for the 2025 midterm elections.
Meanwhile, Garcia dismissed as “dubious” the documents given to him by former Caloocan City Rep. Edgar Erice which supposed contained a list of foreign bank accounts under his name.
For his part, Erice said Garcia can do whatever he wanted with the information embodied in the documents.
Rep. Rodante Marcoleta of Sagip party-list group said he looks forward to Garcia’s pledge to execute a waiver of secrecy of bank deposits, because “this will make it easier for Congress to investigate the alleged bribery of an unnamed Comelec official concerning the contract with Miru,” the lawmaker said.
Last week, Marcoleta disclosed that a top Comelec official recently opened offshore bank accounts which, based on reliable pieces of evidence and documents, received up to P120 million from the controversial South Korean firm Miru. He did not identify the top poll official involved.
But Garcia was quick to respond, saying he is ready to face the “malicious” allegations against him that he received at least P1 billion worth of funds in relation to the signed Full Automation System with Transparency Audit/Count contract. The poll chief felt he was the Comelec official being referred to by Marcoleta in his expose last week, claiming it was a ‘demolition job’ against him and the Comelec -- he being the poll body’s top official.
According to Marcoleta, at least 14 newly opened bank accounts in Cayman Islands in the Caribbean, China, Hong Kong, North America and Singapore, belonging to the particular Comelec official, held money totalling $15.2 million, or almost ₱1 billion, in various denominations. This official allegedly had a total of 49 offshore bank accounts across 18 global banks.
“Why would anyone even attempt to demolish a constitutional body?” Marcoleta asked, responding to Garcia’s remarks.
led by the office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez entered its second week on Monday (July 15) with P64.84 million worth of assistance handed out so far for disadvantaged residents of the province. Returning to Tacloban City, a payout was held at Brgy. 96, Calanipawan Monday morning delivering P6,000 each in cash under the Ayuda Para sa Kapos ang Kita (AKAP) pro -
gram to 938 beneficiaries, or a total of P5.628 million.
During a simultaneous rollout of aid benefits held at the Civic Center of the municipality of Alangalang, some 2,000 qualified residents received P4,050 each, for 10 days of work totalling P8.1 million under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Program of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
“As President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. said, no one should be left
behind in our ‘Bagong Pilipinas.’
In line with this principle, we have launched this aid caravan to deliver available assistance to disadvantaged residents of the province,” Romualdez said.
“We are aware that many of them don’t have the means to travel to the concerned government agencies in urban centers so we adopted the principle of Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair, which brings government services to the doorsteps of our people,” he added.
DOH launches Purokalusugan program in Dilasag, Aurora
TO bring healthcare services closer to the communities, the Department of Health (DOH) rolled out its newest primary healthcare program dubbed Purokalusugan, initially launched at Purok 1, Brgy. Diagyan, Dilasag, Aurora. The program’s primary healthcare services covered immunization, oral health, maternal health, tuberculosis control, nutrition, non-communicable disease prevention and control, and environmental and sanitation services. The initiative is a collaboration among the DOH, the provincial government of Aurora, the local government unit of Dilasag, and other partnerstakeholders. During the launch, representatives
from the Department of Education, the Department of Social Welfare Development indigenous community groups, and the religious sector manifested their commitment to sustain the program.
The PuroKalusugan aligns with one of the DOH’s Eight-Point Action Agenda, “Bawat Pilipino Ramdam ang Kalusugan”, dahil sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Buhay Mahalaga. During the launch, the DOH was represented by Universal Health Care-Health Services Cluster Area 1 Undersecretary Maria Rosario Singh-Vergeire, Central Luzon Center for Health Development regional director Corazon Flores and her assistant, Lailani Mangulabnan. Macon Ramos-Araneta
Monday opened the Philam and Kamuning Stations in Quezon City as part of the EDSA Busway project. In addition to these new stations, enhancements were made at the older ones such as the Guadalupe, Santolan, Balintawak, Bagong Barrio, Monumento, Ayala, Buendia, Kaingin, Nepa Q-Mart, Quezon Avenue, Roosevelt, Roxas Boulevard, and Tramo stations.
MMDA chairman Romando Artes said the new stations and the improvements demonstrated the collaborative efforts of government agencies to provide efficient, affordable, comfortable, and safer bus services. Joel E. Zurbano
THE Caloocan City government has partnered with the Department of Labor and Employment to launch “JobStart,” a program that aims to provide career coaching, life skills, and technical training for the youth.
At least 50 beneficiaries were selected by the city government to start the said training in which they will receive P400 daily allowance.
According to Mayor Dale Gonzalo Malapitan, the program also seeks to provide a head-start for the beneficiaries, especially those who are planning to be employed in the long-run, whether in private or government service. Jun David
PRISON and health officials on Monday joined hands to adopt a policy on improving the health of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in the country’s correction facilities. The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), Department of Health, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Bureau of Immigration, Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation signed the “National Policy on Promotion and Protection of Health in Jails, Prisons, Custodial Facilities, and Other Places of Detention.” BuCor said the policy provides for the allocation of funds and resources, as well as ensuring “strategic directions in the implementation of policies, plans, and programs for health and development in places of detention; materials or management documents to support the implementation of the Healthy Places of Detention.”
SUNSET IN BENGUET. Anybody can’t help but wax poetic while watching the sun set beyond the mountain range of Benguet amid the golden western skies of highlands Baguio City and the township of Tuba. Dave Leprozo
FREE SCHOOL SUPPLIES. Students and their parents troop to the Corazon Aquino Elementary School at the Baseco Compound in Tondo, Manila to receive school supplies free of charge ahead of the reopening of classes on July 29. Danny Pata
OPINION
Need to place history in proper perspective
WITH a new secretary of education appointed and a new school opening up, it would do well for President Marcos Jr. to have certain events in Philippine history put in their proper perspective.
One aspect of our Philippine history that has to be put in proper context is the declaration of Martial Law in 1972 by President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.
There is also the three-day breakaway of then Defense Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile, then Army Lt. Col. Gringo Honasan and Constabulary chief Fidel Ramos that led to the so-called 1986 People Power Revolution and to the exile of Marcos Sr. to Hawaii.
I’m sure Secretary Sonny Angara will agree with me that certain parts of the current history books needed correction.
There’s need to put in black and white why Marcos Sr, had to declare the emergency. He was then besieged by the rising tide of communism which had infiltrated almost all sectors of society, media, the academe, business, labor unions, and even, Congress itself.
He was facing the mounting separatist movement of heavily armed Muslim groups led by the Muslim Islamic Liberation Front.
It was incumbent for him to resort to Martial Law as provided by the 1935 Constitution that, in case of invasion, rebellion, and when public safety demands, it is imperative for the president to declare it.
If he did not do it, the Philippines would have become a communist country and civil war would have ensued, my gulay!
It was true there were also abuses by the military and atrocities committed especially on suspected people aligned with the communist movement.
There were allegations the Marcoses and their cronies amassed ill-gotten wealth which made then President Cory Aquino create the Presidential Commission on Good Government to go after hidden wealth.
Just how much the PCGG recovered, reports say it was measly compared to allegations.
For these I believe there is a need to abolish the PCGG which is no longer relevant.
The three-day breakaway of a movement called RAM (Reform the Armed Forces Movement) must also be placed in its proper perspective.
RAM’s breakaway from the AFP was not intended against Marcos Sr., but against then Chief of Staff Fabian Ver who had organized a junta headed by himself in the event Marcos Sr., then suffering from a critical ailment, died.
Then Defense Secretary Enrile told me RAM, which he headed , was a movement against Ver.
When Marcos Sr. called up JPE over the telephone to ask the latter what happened, JPE told Marcos Sr. RAM was not intended against him but against Ver.
On the second day of that breakaway, RAM installed Cory Aquino, ironically never near the RAM that was encamped at Camp Crame, but was hiding in the Pink Sisters Convent.
The new generation must be made aware of the truth
This was followed by the gathering of over half a million members of civil society in Metro Manila, romanticized by the press and anti-Marcos elements as the People Power Revolution at a time when the population was 56 million. Neither was it a “revolution” because Aquino’s presidency was not the changing of government, but of a regime.
Aquino became the darling of the western press, to the extent that even Time Magazine had her on its cover as the “icon of democracy.” How can she be when she had nothing to do with the break-away?
I see the need for the DepEd Secretary to make an effort to have these events placed in their proper perspective.
Seeing the mood of the over 500,000 people gathering at EDSA, the Americans, to protect the Marcos family, had them airlifted by helicopter and brought to Clark Air Base, then to Andersen Air Base in Guam then to Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii, arriving there on Feb. 26, 1986.
On Sept. 7, 1993, his remains – he died in 1989 – were flown back to Laoag, Ilocos Norte’s provincial capital, via Guam and then brought to his hometown of Batac.
He was buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on Nov. 18, 2016.
The new generation must be made aware of the truth, my gulay!
Heated rhetoric as Republicans blame Biden for Trump shooting
WASHINGTON, United States –
Within hours of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, his Republican supporters in Congress claimed they knew exactly who was responsible: Joe Biden and the Democratic Party.
Biden’s campaign “rhetoric led directly to President Trump’s attempted assassination,” Senator J.D. Vance, on Trump’s shortlist for vice president, alleged shortly after Saturday’s shooting at a rally in Pennsylvania, in which the former US leader was wounded and one bystander killed.
Vance’s comments were part of an escalating chorus of Republicans who have pinned the blame on Democrats -- even as the FBI says it has yet to identify the shooter’s ideology. They also heap more fuel onto the fire in a political atmosphere that has long been tense and fiercely polarized.
“Heated rhetoric has come from both sides” in recent years, Michael Bailey, a political science professor at Georgetown University, told AFP.
Republicans, for whom gun rights and a rejection of alleged government overreach are key themes, “have been more prone to marry such rhetoric with imagery related to guns,” Bailey noted.
“And some of them (including Trump) did not cover themselves in
glory when they made light of the violent attack on Nancy Pelosi’s husband,” he said, referring to the 2022 attack by a conspiracy theorist on the high-profile Democrat’s spouse.
Trump later mocked the Pelosis, and stoked further conspiracy theories around the assault.
Biden sought to calm a divided nation after Trump survived an assassination bid, saying it was time to lower the temperature of America’s hostile politics
Biden ‘sent the orders’
Steve Scalise, a Republican who was shot in a 2017 attack on conservative lawmakers by a left-wing activist, has also blamed the left for Saturday’s assassination attempt.
“Democrat leaders have been fueling ludicrous hysteria that Donald Trump winning reelection would be the end of democracy in America,” he said.
“For years, and even today, leftist activists, Democrat donors and now
Pursued, Guo runs to the SC
THE search is on for Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, suspended preventively by the Ombudsman on May 31, and cited in contempt and ordered arrested by the Senate for twice refusing to appear in its continuing hearings.
Also ordered arrested were her family members.
The orders, signed by Senate President Francis Escudero and Senate committee chairman Risa Hontiveros, were issued after the Court of Appeals granted the petition of the Anti-Money Laundering Council to freeze Guo’s assets, her business associates and companies owned by her family.
The appellate court’s freeze order covered Guo’s 36 bank accounts, a helicopter, 12 vehicles and 12 real estate properties.
A total 90 bank accounts across 14 financial institutions, 27 land titles and other high-value personal properties of Guo and six other individuals, and six companies were also in-
cluded in the court order. Guo has been snubbing the Senate inquiry into the illegal activities of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).
The Philippine National PoliceCriminal Investigation and Detection Group and the Presidential AntiOrganized Crime Commission also filed qualified trafficking charges before the Department of Justice against Guo and 13 others over their alleged involvement in the operation of a POGO hub in Bamban, Tarlac that was raided in March.
Guo has been snubbing the Senate inquiry into the illegal activities of Philippine offshore gaming operators
At the same time, the Bureau of Immigration has implemented the DOJ’s immigration lookout bulletin order against Guo and other local officials involved in the POGO fiasco.
But the legal scenario is getting knotty, as Guo was not in her Bamban farm where members of the Of-
DESPITE the substantial evidence presented by the AMLC, there are potential counter-arguments that Guo’s defense may raise:
Insufficient Evidence of Direct Involvement: Guo could argue her connection to the illegal activities of POGOs is circumstantial and does not directly implicate her in criminal acts.
Legitimate Business Operations: The defense might claim that the financial transactions and business operations in question were legitimate and unrelated to any unlawful activities.
Due Process Violations: Guo’s legal team could challenge the procedural aspects of the AMLC’s investigation and the issuance of the freeze order, arguing that her right to due process was violated.
Supporting Provisions and Precedents:
Philippine Constitution: Article III, Section 1 guarantees due process rights, which can be leveraged to argue any procedural missteps by the AMLC.
Supreme Court Precedent: In Republic vs. Sandiganbayan (2003), the court emphasized the importance of strict adherence to due process in asset forfeiture cases.
Recommendations
Given the complexity and gravity of the allegations, the following rec-
even Joe Biden have made disgusting remarks and descriptions of shooting Donald Trump,” Trump campaign adviser Chris LaCivita charged on X. Biden did recently tell donors that it was “time to put Trump in the bullseye,” according to comments put out by his campaign -- though he was speaking in the context of focusing the party on beating Trump.
Rep. Mike Collins went further on the shooting, stating “Joe Biden sent the orders,” without offering credible evidence.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, meanwhile, offered an escalation of her own, telling her followers “we are in a battle between good and evil” and casting Democrats as “the party of pedophiles” and “violence.”
“The Democrat party is flat out evil, and yesterday they tried to murder President Trump,” she said.
fice of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms went to serve the arrest warrant.
Her three siblings were not at their addresses in Marilao, Bulacan, and in Valenzuela City either, but the Senate security team was able to arrest Nancy Gamo, the accountant of the Guo family’s companies. She was taken to the Senate’s detention facility in Pasay City.
Through counsel, the suspended Guo has sought the Supreme Court’s help to prevent the Senate from compelling her to attend legislative hearings by filing a petition for certiorari and/or prohibition with extremely urgent prayer for temporary restraining order.
Under the law, such petition asks an appellate court to grant a writ of certiorari, like a remedy of last resort which is availed of only when an appeal or any other adequate, plain or speedy remedy may no longer be pursued in the ordinary course of law. In her petition, Guo wants the Court to scrap the subpoena issued to her by the Senate committee on women, children, family relations, and gender equality chaired by Hontiveros.
The days, or even weeks and months ahead, will indeed be interesting.
The court’s freeze on Alice Guo’s P28 billion in assets (Last of 2 parts)
ommendations are proposed: Thorough and Transparent Investigation: Ensure that the investigation by the AMLC and DOJ is thorough, transparent, and adheres strictly to legal protocols to avoid any challenges based on procedural grounds.
If the allegations are substantiated, Guo and her associates should face the full extent of the law, including imprisonment, fines, and forfeiture of all illicitly obtained assets
Strengthen Regulatory Oversight:
The government should enhance regulatory oversight of POGO operations to prevent similar issues in the future, including stricter background checks and monitoring of financial transactions.
Public Awareness Campaign: Educate the public on the risks and legal implications of engaging in or supporting illegal POGO operations to
Such accusations risk removing “attention from the very welcome, widespread condemnation of the attack,” said Jacob Ware, a research fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations.
‘America needs to stop’
The heated rhetoric pushed Biden to issue a rare address to the nation from the Oval Office on Sunday in which he called on Americans to “lower the temperature.”
Trump and Biden have spoken to each other after the incident, while Biden’s campaign is temporarily pausing television ads -- part of what some on both sides hope is part of a broader national cooling.
“Tensions are high on both sides, and I think we’ve got to tone down the rhetoric,” 60-year-old Trump supporter Martin Kutzler told AFP in downtown Milwaukee, where the
deter future involvement.
International Cooperation: Collaborate with international law enforcement agencies to track and recover any assets that may have been moved offshore to evade Philippine jurisdiction.
Based on the available evidence and the legal framework provided by the AMLA and related laws, it is my opinion the freeze order issued by the Court of Appeals is both appropriate and necessary. The sheer scale of the financial transactions, coupled with the serious allegations of human trafficking and illegal detention, underscores the need for decisive legal action.
Ensuring that the investigation proceeds with full transparency and adherence to due process is paramount.
If the allegations are substantiated, Guo and her associates should face the full extent of the law, including imprisonment, fines, and forfeiture of all illicitly obtained assets.
The case against Alice Guo and her associates underscores the complex and pervasive nature of money laundering and human trafficking operations linked to POGOs.
By leveraging the full extent of Philippine law and ensuring a robust and fair judicial process, the authorities can work towards dismantling these illegal networks and upholding the rule of law.
Republican convention is set to open Monday.
Republican National Committee chair Michael Whately meanwhile declined to speculate on the shooting while speaking to “Fox News Sunday.”
“Right now, I think everybody in America needs to stop. They need to pause,” he said. Among elected officials, though, the accusations keep coming.
“When the message goes out constantly, that the election of Donald Trump would be a threat to democracy, and that the Republic would end, it heats up the environment,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson. Depoliticizing the shooting, however, is essential, Bailey said.
“In an environment with so many guns... it is possible for heated rhetoric to motivate an unbalanced person on any side.” AFP
3.
2.
DANILO
GILBERT G. GORDOVE Roll of Attorneys No. 44495 IBP lifetime Member No. 04783, Samar PTR No. 7333307; 01/03-2019; Makati City MCLE Compliance No.VI-0011856; 08/29/18
NESTLE LYN M. PARDUCHO Roll of Attorneys No. 58331 IBP Lifetime Member No. 013309; Quezon City PTR No. 9269464; 01/02/2020; Quezon City MCLE Compliance No. VI-0017711 issued on 1/31/19
NOLI A. CABRERA Roll of Attorneys No. 51998 IBP Lifetime Member No. 07324; Batangas PTR OR No. 7380190, Makati City, 1/25/19
MCLE Compliance No. VI-0027564 issued on 6/13/19
MAICA MARIS D. MARANAN Roll of Attorneys No. 66074
IBP OR No. 102149; Laguna 1/03/2020 PTR OR No. 8117465; Makati City ,01/03/2020
MCLE Compliance No. VI - 0002939; issued on 8/08/17
MOUJECK STEVE O.CABALES
Roll of Attorneys No. 69661 IBP OR No. 100952, PPLM, 1/03/2020
PTR OR No. 11890176, Las Piñas City, 1/2/2020
MCLE Compliance No. VI-0011918 issued on 8/29/18
STEFAN ELLISE A. BERNARDO Roll of Attorneys No. 69523
IBP O.R. No. 102150, PPLM 01/03/2020
PTR OR No. MKT-8116292, Makati City, 01/03/2020
MCLE Compliance No. VI-0017041 issued on 12/28/18
KEVIN CHARLES G. BALDERAMA Roll of Attorneys No. 69630 IBP OR No. 060905, Makati City, 1/04/19 PTR OR No. MKT 7335037, Makati City, 1/03/19
MCLE Compliance No. VI-0024155 issued on 4/12/19
AFFIDAVIT OF MERIT TO SUPPORT APPLICATION FOR WRIT OF REPLEVIN AND CERTIFICATION OF NON•FORUM SHOPPING
I, JOAN F. TAGNIPEZ of legal age, Filipino and with postal address at 4th Floor, PSBank Centre, 777 Paseo de Roxas St., corner Sedeño St., Makati City, after having been sworn in accordance with law, hereby depose and state that: 1. caused the preparation of the complaint read the contents thereof; and all allegations therein are true and correct based on my personal knowledge and authenticated record/documents under the possession of PSBank;
Biden tells Americans to ‘cool it down’ after Trump slay attempt
WASHINGTON, DC – US
President Joe Biden sought to calm a divided nation Sunday (Monday Manila time) after his rival Donald Trump survived an assassination bid, saying in a rare Oval Office address it was time to lower the temperature of America’s hostile politics.
“It’s time to cool it down. We all have a responsibility to do that,” Biden said in a televised address following the attack in which Republican Trump was injured in the ear and a bystander was killed by gunfire.
As the country reeled from images of a bloodied Trump waving his fist after the gunman opened fire at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, Biden added that US politics “must never be a literal battlefield, God forbid a killing field.”
The 20-year-old shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was shot dead by Secret Service agents amid scenes of chaos. Authorities say his motive remains unclear.
The FBI said it was investigating the attack as a potential act of domestic terrorism and studying Crooks’s phone to discover any “ideologies” he may have had. Biden, giving just the third Oval Office address of his presidency, also mentioned the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack by pro-Trump supporters as proof that the situation is getting out of hand.
“We can’t allow this violence to be normalized,” the 81-year-old Democrat said, adding that the November 5 election would be a “time of testing” for the United States.
The short but forceful speech went without any major hitches -- bar Biden twice referring to the ballot box as a “battle box”. Democrats are closely watching the president following a disastrous debate performance renewed concerns about his age and ability to govern.
The attempt on Trump’s life has opened a dark new chapter in an already polarized election rematch with Biden, who beat him in 2020. AFP
THE HAGUE, Netherlands – Ten years after Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 was blasted from the sky over war-torn Ukraine, families of the victims will gather Wednesday to remember the tragedy as hopes fade that those responsible will soon be behind bars.
Notice Is
Hundreds of relatives as well as government representatives and dignitaries are expected to attend the event at a memorial park near Schiphol airport where the doomed flight took off on a bright summer’s day on July 17, 2014. Hours later the Boeing 777 jet was shot down by a Russian-made BUK surface-to-air missile over eastern Ukraine, as it passed on a flight line toward Kuala Lumpur. All 298 people on board died.
A Dutch court has sentenced in absentia three men to life imprisonment for their roles in bringing
down the plane over separatist-held pro-Russian territory, during the early stages of a war that saw Moscow seize the Crimean peninsula. On Wednesday the names of all the victims -- 196 of them Dutch -will be read during the commemoration, its organizers said. Forty-three Malaysians and 38 Australians were also among the victims from 10 countries.
Memorial ceremonies are also planned elsewhere, including a service in the Australian parliament.
“This remains a dark day. For all of us,” said Evert van Zijtveld, who lost his daughter Frederique, 19, his son Robert-Jan, 18, as well as his parents-in-law.
“Once again we gather to commemorate our loved ones. It’s incredibly sad,” van Zijtveld told AFP ahead of the gathering. AFP
Kin to mark MH17 downing 10 years on; arrest hopes fade Nepal’s
Communist PM Oli takes power for fourth time
the name of the country and people, pledge that I will be loyal to the constitution... and fulfil my duty as the prime minister,” Oli said, as President Ram Chandra Poudel administered the oath of office. AFP
TALKS SUSPENDED. A Palestinian woman reacts after the Israeli military bombardment of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees run Abu Araban school, turned shelter, where internally displaced Palestinians are living, in the Nuseirat refugee camp, in the central Gaza Strip on Sunday amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas militant group. Meanwhile, a senior official from Iran-backed Hamas cited Israeli ‘massacres’ in the Hamas-run territory where 92 people were killed as a reason for suspending negotiations. AFP
SPORTS
Imports, rookies take spotlight as PVL starts
THE Premier Volleyball League launches its Reinforced Conference today (Tuesday) at the Philsports Arena in Pasig, featuring an exciting line-up of international imports eager to showcase their skills, along with a promising batch of rookies looking to make their mark.
While established stars will remain central to each team’s campaign in this mid-season tournament organized by Sports Vision, the spotlight will be on the new reinforcements and eager local first-timers ready to embrace the challenge.
An explosive triple-header sets the stage, headlined by a 6 p.m. clash between league heavyweights Creamline and PLDT. Galeries Tower and Nxled kick off hostilities at 2 p.m., followed by the Chery Tiggo-Farm Fresh showdown at 4 p.m.
The offseason saw surprising player movements in both the Creamline and PLDT camps, heightening anticipation for the return of the import-laden conference last held in 2022.
The Cool Smashers, fresh from their All-Filipino Conference victory, will be without star outside hitter Jema Galanza due to her commitment to Alas Pilipinas. However, American import Erica Staunton and Fil-Canadian libero Aleiah Torres are expected to bolster the team’s offense and defense, respectively.
Games Tuesday (Philsports Arena)
2 p.m. – Galeries Tower vs Nxled
4 p.m. – Chery Tiggo vs Farm Fresh
6 p.m. – Creamline vs PLDT
Alcaraz doesn’t know ‘limit’ after Wimbledon repeat win
LONDON—Carlos Alcaraz said he does not know his limit after overpowering Novak Djokovic on Sunday to win his second Wimbledon title but believes the Serb is still “Superman”.
The Spanish third seed beat the seven-time champion 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4), collecting the fourth Grand Slam of his young career and underlining a changing of the guard. Alcaraz, 21, who has won three of the past five majors, said he wanted to enjoy his “amazing journey so far” rather than look too far into the future.
“I really want to keep going, to keep improving, to keep growing up, try to keep winning. That’s all that matters for me right now,” he said.
“I don’t know what is my limit. I don’t want to think about it. I just want to keep enjoying my moment, just to keep dreaming.
“So let’s see if at the end of my career
it’s going to be 25, 30, 15, four (Slams). I don’t know. All I want to say is I want to keep enjoying and let’s see what the future brings to me.”
Despite his staggering success at such a tender age, Alcaraz said it was more important where he finished.
“I want to sit at the same table as the big guys,” he said. “That’s my main goal. That’s my dream right now.”
Djokovic was aiming for record 25th major but struggled to get going against a man 16 years his junior on Centre Court, and Alcaraz said he took advantage of the veteran’s mistakes.
Club Gymnastica’s 43rd anniversary draws MILO backing
THE PhilSports Arena in Pasig City came alive with vibrant energy as gymnastics training club Club Gymnastica celebrated its 43rd anniversary with its annual recital, themed “Sayaw Pilipinas.”
The event saw over 200 participants from various Club Gymnastica venues show their skills in traditional and modern Filipino dance and gymnastics performances, and was attended by parents, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines, representatives from the local government of Pasig, and Club Gymnastica alumni.
Just as well, the celebration was supported by MILO® Philippines and served to highlight their deep-rooted partnership with Club Gymnastica.
For decades, MILO® has served as one of its steadfast advocates, fostering the development of aspiring gymnasts and promoting an active and healthy lifestyle among Filipino youth.
This year’s event was particularly special as it coincided with MILO® Philippines’ 60th anniversary, marking six decades of unwavering dedication to promoting sports and an active lifestyle in the country. MILO® has been at the forefront of championing sports development, encouraging young Filipinos to engage in physical activities and excel in their chosen sports.
During the welcome remarks, Nestlé Philippines’ Senior Vice President of Beverages and Confectionery Veronica Cruz expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for the event as she shared, “This year holds special significance for us as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of MILO®, marking six decades of unwavering dedication to promoting
sports and an active lifestyle in the Philippines.”
Cruz also shared the brand’s belief in sports being a great teacher as it instills grit, resilience, determination, and teamwork among athletes.
“Through sports, MILO®, along with its partners and ambassadors, can build next-generation Champions by allowing sports to teach kids life skills
and values that help them become Champions in Life,” she adds. The event started with a spectacular parade and presentation of the Queens/Reyna Elena, followed by dynamic performances that captivated the audience, reflecting the theme “Sayaw Pilipinas” with a fusion of Filipino cultural heritage and modern athleticism.
Alcaraz described the Serb as “Superman” before the tournament started and said he had no reason to change his mind, especially as Djokovic had surgery on his knee just last month.
“I’m still believing that Novak is Superman because what he has done this tournament with a surgery just a few weeks before the tournament began,” he said.
“It is amazing. It is unbelievable. Honestly, as I said on court, I was talking to my team that the work that Novak has done has been unbelievable.” AFP
POC chief to talk about Olympians at PSA Forum
THE country’s top sports official graces the final Forum of the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) on Tuesday prior to the kickoff of the Paris Olympics.
Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino will be appearing in the 10:30 a.m. session at the conference hall of the Rizal Memorial Complex to discuss and assess the Olympic campaign of the country.
Tolentino just came back from Metz, France to oversee the training camp of the compact Philippine contingent.
He’s scheduled to leave later for Paris and lead the Filipino delegation’s bid to surpass if not equal its memorable one gold, two silver, and one bronze medal haul during the 2020 Tokyo Games.
PSA President Nelson Beltran, sports editor of The Philippine Star, enjoins members to attend the public sports program presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, MILO, Smart/PLDT, and ArenaPlus, the country’s 24/7 sports app.
Livestreamed via the PSA Facebook page fb.com/PhilippineSportswritersAssociation, the Forum is also aired on a delayed basis over Radyo Pilipinas 2 and shared on its official Facebook page Radyo Pilipinas 2 sports.
IOC deploys Alibaba Cloud’s Energy Expert to optimize power consumption at Olympics
PARIS—Alibaba Cloud, the
and
of Alibaba Group, recently announced that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will deploy its data-driven sustainability solution – Energy Expert – to help measure and analyze the electricity consumption at the competition venues of the forthcoming Olympic Games Paris 2024 (“Paris 2024”). By migrating the intelligence related to the power consumption and demand of the competition venues to the cloud-based platform for the first time, the solution aims to enable more accurate analysis and better-informed power consumption planning for future Olympic Games. The deployment of Energy Expert will be applied to all 35 competition venues during Paris 2024. With this solution, the IOC will be able to consolidate all energy-related data during the Olympics and Paralympics – such as electricity consumption, power
demand contingency, venue capacity, competitionrelated information, and onsite weather conditions – into one easy-to-understand dashboard for a userfriendly experience.
Based on the integrated cloud-based intelligence and thanks to the deep-learning based AI
models from Alibaba Cloud, Energy Expert aims to provide more accurate analysis to produce venue-specific forecasts and recommendations such as power demand optimization to minimize power wastage.
“Sustainability is one of the three pillars of the Olympic Agenda 2020+5 alongside credibility and youth. With Energy Expert, we can now forecast our energy-related impacts well into the future and accurately measure our progress,” said llario Corna, Chief Information and Technology Officer at the International Olympic Committee (IOC). “Electricity consumption is a large contributor to the Olympic Games’ carbon emissions. The data-driven insight produced by Energy Expert will help us learn from each Games edition, and apply that knowledge intelligently to make future events even more energy efficient.”
In addition, real-time electricity consumption at the level of operational spaces on-venue will be gathered from a selection of competition venues with 100 smart electric meters installed to gather more comprehensive datasets. For example, real-time electricity consumption from various operational spaces on-venue, including the playing fields, broadcast and media working areas, technology operational spaces and specific equipment, food and beverage equipment, and a host of other temporary operational areas and equipment. Datasets collected will vary, taking into account temperature conditions and realtime occupancy of the areas at different times of the day. Collection of these detailed datasets will enable a more accurate context for Organizing Committees for the Olympic Games (OCOGs) when referring to the energy consumption data from the Paris Games.
Representatives of various branches of Club Gymnastica are shown during their performance.
TUESDAY, JULY 16, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
PH-coached Selangor Giants rule MLBB Mid-Season Cup
By Randy Caluag
LED by Filipino playing coach Michael “Arcadia” Bocado, the Selangor Red Giants (SRG) from Malaysia emerged victorious in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Mid-Season Cup 2024, defeating the reigning champions Falcons AP.Bren (FCAP) of the Philippines before a sellout crowd at Amazon Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
With a wealth of international titles under his belt, coach Bocado expertly guided the Red Giants to a thrilling 4-3 victory in the intense best-of-seven (BO7) series.
Since joining SRG, Bocado has transformed the team into a formidable contender, leading the Red Giants to an undefeated run during the MPL MY
S13 regular season and a dominant performance in the playoffs.
“We made sure to stay composed. The best-of-seven series tested our mental fortitude, so we had to ensure we were in the zone and laser-focused to execute our plans game by game seamlessly,” said Bocado during the press conference.
Jungler Muhammad Haqqullah
“Sekys” Ahmad Shahrul Zaman was named the Grand Finals” Most Valuable Player. The newly crowned champion team SRG will take home $1 million, while FCAP will receive $500,000.
SRG made a historic achievement,
becoming the first Malaysian team to secure a major MLBB esports tournament title. Prior to this, no Malaysian team had even reached a Grand Finals. The win also extends its unbeaten streak in competitive MLBB esports to 106 days.
This year’s MSC has expanded its reach, becoming the largest mid-season MLBB esports tournament by featuring international teams from North America, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Turkey, Latin America, and China. It was the first title announced for the inaugural Esports World Cup.
Son of ex-pro steers NCR to Palaro cage title
By Peter Atencio
TIMOTHY Matias is keen on fol-
lowing his father’s footsteps.
The young Matias struck with 20 points for the National Capital Region (NCR) as they outplayed an undermanned Central Luzon (CLRAA) side, 86-71, to become Palarong Pambansa’s secondary boys’ basketball champions again on Monday at the University of San Carlos Gym here.
The 16-year-old Matias, whose father Ronnie played for different Philippine Basketball Association squads during his days as a pro, led a decisive 11-0 run in the first three minutes of the third period.
Matias’ contributions earned him the MVP, as NCR regained the crown they lost to the Sacred Heart SchoolAteneo de Cebu last year in Marikina.
“We are back. We won it again. This is where we belong,” quipped Coach Leo Pujante after the game. CLRAA, bannered by coach Allan Trinidad’s St. Augustine Institute of Pampanga, lost three players, who were thrown out of the game in the last 7:40 of the first quarter with NCR team skipper Alnhumaeri Usop, following a bench-clearing incident. Usop went after CLRAA cager Benz Abenojar during a scuffle under the boards, and he was ejected with the game with Central three players who entered the court during the commotion, in a game that was later put under protest.
NCR, backed up by players from the Nazareth School-National University, broke away from a 40-38 edge off a triple from Lebron Manding, and Matias’ back-to-back hits.
The Metro Manila cagers, with Miekho Natinga making 11 points, went on to move away, 53-38, in the ensuing plays. Davao Region settled for the bronze medal following a 75-72 win over Southern Tagalog region’s Lyceum of Batangas.
In the secondary girls’ side, NCR stopped Central Visayas, 65-56, for the crown.
Benilde whips Letran in Game 1 battle for bronze
COLLEGE of Saint Benilde fought back from a set down to frustrate Letran, 21-25, 25-21, 25-16, 25-17, and own Game 1 of the 2024 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals best-of-three battle for bronze series Monday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The Lady Blazers shook off a rusty start before finding their groove to reassert their mastery over the same rival they defeated in the group stage.
as ICTSI golf tour begins
LAUREL, Batangas—The ICTSI Splendido Taal Championship kicks off today (Tuesday, July 16), featuring champions from the first five legs of this year’s Philippine Golf Tour, along with the winner of the prestigious The Country Club Invitational and the top performer of the PGT QSchool. With such a formidable roster, including seasoned campaigners and emerging talents, the P2 million tournament promises intense competition and thrilling performances as these top players ensure that the event will be both unpredictable and highly exciting, showcasing the best of Philippine golf.
Apo leg champion Jhonnel Ababa faces off with Caliraya Springs stage winner Clyde Mondilla and former Q-School topnotcher Hyun Ho Rho at 7:10 a.m. on No. 1, while Lloyd Go, who scored a breakthrough at Palos Verdes, slugs it out with recent TCC Invitational winner and four-time Order of Merit titlist Tony Lascuña and Rupert Zaragosa in the next flight at 7:20 a.m. Angelo Que, who snapped a long title spell with a commanding victory at the Philippine Masters, and multi-titled Guido van der Valk test Sean Ramos’ mettle at the challenging course which requires length and precision.
CSB can step onto the podium lifting the third place trophy in the tournament backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, Eurotel, Victory Liner, Team Rebel Sports and Mikasa with another victory over its NCAA Season 99 finals victim on Tuesday.
Opposite spiker Clydel Catarig scattered 22 points on an efficient 22-of52 spiking clip to lead the Lady Blazers, who took advantage of the Lady Knights’ 27 errors to bounce back from a painful straight-sets loss to Far Eastern University in the knockout semifinal on Sunday.
“Bawat isa sa aming mga players nainspired kaming bumawi kasi kahapon
lang namin,” said Catarig.
Games Tuesday (Ninoy Aquino Stadium)
2 p.m. – CSB vs Letran (battle for third)
4 p.m. – NU vs FEU (championship)
match after regrouping in the second set.
Smelling blood after a dominating third frame, CSB raced to an early lead in the fourth set that ballooned to 11 after Jessa Dorog pounded a kill that pushed the Lady Blazers at match point, 24-13. Back-to-back CSB errors followed by consecutive hits by Gia Maquilang kept Letran in the game before Dorog halted the Lady Knights’ run with a finishing crosscourt hit.
Maquilang finished with 19 points to lead the Lady Knights. Judiel Nitura had 12 markers while Lea Tapang scored eight in a losing effort for Letran. Meanwhile, unbeaten National University and FEU are playing in their finals series opener as of press time.
added 15 points off
ing added 12 markers with 11 coming for spikes for CSB. The Lady
took control of the
Games in the SSL National Invitationals, organized by Athletic Events and Sports Management, Inc., are available via livestream on Smart Livestream and Puso Pilipinas and Solar Sports (cable).
Constantino eyes 4th win amid Lee’s pro debut
LAUREL, Batangas—Amid the rising attention on debuting pro Jiwon Lee, seasoned campaigner Harmie Constantino sees an opportunity to ease the pressure as she guns for her fourth leg win at the ICTSI Splendido Taal Championship, which begins today (Tuesday) here.
the Lakewood Championship in Cabanatuan City last month.
The Korean junior golfer secured a remarkable win over Ikeda on the second extra hole, a feat that showcased her potential and prompted her transition to the professional ranks.
Lee’s dominance in the first two legs of this year’s Junior PGT also underscored her readiness for the professional arena. However, while winning a professional tournament as an amateur is impressive, competing against seasoned pros as peers presents a new set of challenges.
Constantino, known for her resilience and skill, has a history of overcoming challenges. She claimed victory at Palos Verdes, made a surprising comeback to defeat Princess Superal and Pauline del Rosario for the Caliraya crown, and outlasted Gretchen Villacencio in a thrilling second playoff hole to secure the Philippine Masters title for the second consecutive year. Despite her achievements, Constantino and her fellow professionals, including Chihiro Ikeda, Florence Bisera, Marvi Monsalve, and Villacencio, were overshadowed by Lee’s exceptional performance at
“My expectation for the week is to stay focused on every shot. Splendido is a challenging course, where one mistake can have big consequences,” said Lee. “I’ll try to stay out of trouble and enjoy the challenge. I’ll stay positive until the end, hoping for good results.”
Steered by Filipino playing coach Michael ‘Arcadia’ Bocado, the Selangor Red Giants celebrate their MLBB Mid-Season Cup. (Montoon Games)
nu’ng natalo kami, sinabihan kami ni coach (Jerry Yee) kung anong mga ku-
Harmie Constantino
Clyde Mondilla
St. Benilde players huddle together to map out their strategy. Roman Prospero
Welyn Estoque
nine kills, three kill blocks and three aces while Rhea Dens-
Blazers
Cash remittances climbed 3.6% to $2.58b in May—Bangko Sentral
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Finance (DOF)
said Monday it plans to tap billions of pesos in unused and idle funds held by government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) to fund critical projects in healthcare, social services and infrastructure.
“We cannot afford to have excess money sleeping in our GOCCs while withholding the same funds from public investment. Hibernating funds can help the nation without harming government corporations. This way, the government does not have to inflict additional taxes, increase our debt, and put pressure on our deficit,” the DOF said in a statement.
It said unlocking these excess fund balances is a more prudent fiscal option than borrowing more or imposing taxes.
“The move does not affect the viability of participating corporations. It does not impair their delivery of services,” the DOF said, citing PhilHealth, left with a P500billion benefit chest which could fund multiple-year claims.
“It is also worthy to note that remittances to fund urgent national projects do not come from their member contributions but from a fraction of billions in unutilized national government subsidies,” it said.
ON JULY 1, 2022, Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. began his first full day as Chief Executive of the Republic of the Philippines after having been declared to have received a 31-million-plus mandate from this country’s voters. That was more than two years ago, and a week from now, on July 22, President Marcos —PBBM in official shorthand—will render an accounting of his two-year stewardship of the nation’s affairs in his second on-my-watch State of the Nation Address (SONA).
A SONA has three time dimensions. It addresses the present state of national affairs. “The nation is in great shape” or “The nation is in crisis,” the Chief Executive tells the nation. The past—that’s the second time dimension of a SONA. Accomplishments notched, headwinds encountered, challenges experienced, breakthroughs made —these are the kinds of things that make up the part of a SONA that deals with the conduct of the nation’s business during the preceding twelve months.
By Ralph Harvey Rirao
CASH remittances sent through banks by Filipinos
working overseas reached
$2.58 billion in May 2024, up by 3.6 percent from $2.49 billion posted a year ago, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said Monday.
It was the fastest growth in remittance money this year and surpassed the 3.1-percent growth amounting to $2.56 billion seen in April, data from the BSP show.
“The expansion in cash remittances in May 2024 was due to growth in receipts from both land- and seabased workers,” the BSP said.
This brought total cash remittances in the first five months of 2024 to $13.37 billion, up by 3.0 percent from $12.98 billion logged in the same
period last year.
Meanwhile, personal remittances, which include both cash remittances and non-cash items sent outside the banking system, went up by 3.7 percent to $2.88 billion in May from $2.78 billion a year ago. The BSP said the increase was due to
remittances from land-based workers with work contracts of one year or more and sea- and land-based workers with work contracts of less than one year.
Five-month personal remittances totaled $14.89 billion, reflecting a 3.0 percent increase from $14.46 billion a year earlier.
By Othel V. Campos
TRADE Secretary Alfredo Pascual said the newly-launched ATA Carnet System is a “significant leap forward that will empower Philippine exporters to move goods across borders without incurring import duties or value-added tax in host countries.
“The ATA Carnet System represents a significant leap forward for Philippine businesses as it allows them to temporarily move goods across international borders without the burden of import duties and value-added tax
in the host countries,” Pascual said during the launch of the ATA Carnet.
The ATA Carnet System, established under the Convention on Temporary Admission (Istanbul Convention), will simplify customs procedures for Philippine exporters. It replaces multiple documents with a single, comprehensive document, facilitating temporary exports to over 80 countries and territories.
The streamlined process will reduce financial burdens and expedite the movement of goods, making international trade shows, exhibitions
and events more accessible for Philippine businesses.
The system is anticipated to boost international trade and enhance the country’s attractiveness as a destination for international events, as outlined in the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP).
It is also expected to stimulate tourism, create jobs and contribute to the overall economic development of the Philippines.
The launch of the ATA Carnet System is the result of a collaborative effort between the DTI, the Department
of Finance, the Bureau of Customs and the Export Development Council (EDC).
The International Chamber of Commerce-Philippines (ICC Philippines) expressed its full support for the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) becoming the national issuing and guaranteeing association of ATA Carnet in the Philippines.
ICC Philippines expressed confidence in PCCI’s ability to streamline trade processes and connect the Philippines to international market trends.
AirAsia registers 1.1m booked seats in seven months
Mid-2022 was hardly the best time to enter into the presidency or the Republic. The pandemic, then in its third year, was still causing much loss of life, economic activity and financial stability. The economic and social effects of the doubledigit plunge in GDP (gross domestic production)—the steepest GDP since the economic crisis of the mid-1980-were still being felt.
Compounding the direness of the national condition was the fallout on Philippine society of the turbulence and disruption generated by former President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial policies and the fiscal deficit created by the anti-COVID ayuda program and Mr. Duterte’s “Build, Build, Build” projects and the negative impact on FDI (foreign direct investment) of the former Chief Executive’s antagonistic attitude toward the Philippines’ traditional economic policies that placed a heavy burden on the economic managers.
The third time dimension of a SONA is the future. More important than describing the present situation
The Filipino people, highly knowledgeable about PBBM’s personal and family background, wanted to see results
of the nation and identifying the causes of that situation is the provision of a road map for the journey of the nation in the ensuing twelve months.
A SONA contains broad strokes only; the specifics of the journey are contained in the administration’s general—appropriations proposal, the core of which is the National Expenditures Program (NEP).
PBBM has many major things on his economic plate — high food prices, fiscal and external trade deficits, continuing high incidence of poverty, week investment inflow, bureaucratic corruption,
unemployment and inadequate social services. In his upcoming SONA, he will tell the nation how his administration intends to deal with these challenges to governance.
Truth to tell, the Filipino people, highly knowledgeable about PBBM’s personal and family background, were not inclined to expect much from the son and namesake of President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos. They were not awed by his 31-million-votes victory; they wanted to see results.
Editor’s Note: Romero returns to business section
After several years in the opinion page, Rudy Romero returns to the business section of Manila Standard. Romero’s column, Business Class, first appeared in the business section in 2013.
A lawyer and an economist, Romero practices and teaches law and has been an officer or consultant of a number of major financial institutions. Business Class will appear every Tuesday.
AIRASIA Philippines saw a surge in bookings in the first seven months of 2024, fueled by the tech-savvy Gen Z and Millennial travelers. The budget airline said it recorded 1.10 million seats booked under various promos such as PISO Sale and the monthly double-digit sales from January to July 2024. It said of this figure, 340,000 were Gen Zs and 480,000 were Millennials, while the remaining were Gen X and Boomers. “Millennials and Gen Zs are techsavvy, while Gen X and Boomers are tech native. Technology always plays an important role in their decision making. 70 percent of online and over the App bookings for the first half of 2024 came from Millennials and Gen Z’s,” AirAsia head of communications and public affairs Steve Dailisan said. “To cope up with their travel needs, we need to stick to our working business model of low fare philosophy that focuses on streamlined, simple, and efficient business operation with high regards to passenger safety. We will continue to offer the most competitive and affordable airfare, fueling their excitement for travel with our monthly offerings,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar and Joel E. Zurbano
Major foreign, local energy firms plan to bid for CBK hydro plants
By Alena Mae S. Flores
LARGE power players such as Marubeni Corp., Semirara Mining and Power Corp., Aboitiz Group, First Gen Corp. and ACEN Corp. expressed interest in the privatization of the Caliraya-BotocanKalayaan (CBK) hydro power plants in Lumban, Majayjay and Kalayaan, Laguna.
“We conducted the CBK pre-proposal conference last Friday with the qualified bidders,” PSALM president Dennis Dela Serna said. Dela Serna said among those who attended are representatives from Marubeni, Semirara, First Gen, Giga
Cemex signs power supply agreement with Semirara Mining
THE Consunji Group has initiated synergy efforts with its recent acquisition, Cemex Holdings Philippines Inc. (CHP), starting with an electricity supply agreement.
CHP said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Monday the board of unit APO Cement Corp. entered into an electricity supply agreement with Sem Calaca Res Corp.
Under the agreement, Sem Calaca, the retail electricity supply arm of Consunji-owned Semirara Mining and Power Corp. (SMPC), will provide electricity to APO’s cement plant facilities in Naga, Cebu.
The agreement is set to expire on Dec. 25, 2024.
DMCI Holdings Inc., a diversified engineering conglomerate, signed an agreement in April to acquire 100-percent interest in Cemex Asian South East Corp., which owns 89.86 percent of CHP.
DMCI said the acquisition would provide synergies with the group, which has investments in coal mining, power generation, construction and property development.
CHP, the Philippines’ fourth-largest cement manufacturer, reported losses of P1 billion in 2022 and P2 billion in 2023, attributed to escalating costs and reduced sales volume.
DMCI, however, unveiled its strategic plan to revitalize the cement firm.
SMPC also expects coal sales to CHP to increase by 227 percent to 500,000 metric tons annually.
The integrated energy company can also supply CHP with 50 megawatts of electricity and fly ash.
Based on historical consumption patterns, DMCI and DMCI Homes are estimated to source around 400,000 metric tons of cement from CHP.
The volume has the potential to expand further, subject to growth in DMCI’s order book and a recovery in DMCI Homes’ project launches.
Jenniffer B. Austria
Ace (owned by ACEN) and Thunder consortium composed of Aboitiz Power Electric Power Development Corp. and Japanese firm Sumitomo.
He said other interested companies were unable to attend the conference.
The PSALM official said the bid-
ding would have two stages—the qualification stage and the proposal stage for the CBK privatization slated this year.
“Purpose of the pre proposal conference was to seek and answer questions by the qualified bidders on the RFP [request for proposal] documents,” Dela Serna said.
PSALM initially received interest from 28 companies to participate in the CBK privatization on Feb. 1, 2024 deadline for submission of interest, but one company decided to withdraw.
“PSALM will commit all its efforts to ensure that this will be a winwin privatization project for both the
government and the winning private company, yielding optimal returns while serving the government’s interest,” Dela Serna said earlier.
The plants comprising the CBK Hydroelectric Power Plant Complex are in Lumban, Majayjay and Kalayaan towns. CBK has an overall contracted capacity of 796.64 megawatts.
The CBK plant complex is under a build-rehabilitate-operate-transfer (BROT) and power purchase agreement (PPA) between the CBK Power Company Limited and the National Power Corp. for 25 years from its effectivity on Feb. 7, 2001 or until February 2026.
By Jenniffer B. Austria
THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said it is accelerating efforts to foster a sustainable capital market and business sector with the launch of Sustainable Enterprise Collaboration Network (eSECnature).
The SEC said in a statement Monday that eSECnature would deepen corporate engagement of government bodies, multilateral organizations and civil society in sustainability, accelerate progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote ethical business practices.
It said that through eSECnature, members would collaborate on knowledge-sharing, advocate for policy initiatives and integrate sustainable practices into their operations.
The network also supports digitalization and paperless initiatives to reduce carbon footprints across sectors.
SEC chairperson Emilio Aquino emphasized the network’s role in de-
Joseph Sagaran
AS I was reflecting upon the leadership talks we had in class, I was trying to identify a common trait among the CEOs we’ve invited so far to be our guest speakers. One may say that it is intelligence, i.e., you cannot be a CEO if you are not intelligent.
But I beg to disagree. If we were to use intelligence quotient (IQ) as a measure, I don’t think all CEOs will come out as having high IQs. Similarly, not everyone with a high IQ will become CEO. So what do they have in common apart from those you can read online? For me, it is their curiosity – the ability to have an inquisitive mind.
Instead of citing the actual experiences of our guest CEOs again, allow me to share this time around my own experience. If I summarize my career so far, I am a marketing graduate who was exposed to the human resources (HR) field during my internship and ended up in banking or finance for the last ten years of my corporate life. Was it challenging? Of course, it was! Just imagine a person who has been taught about product, price, place and promotion for four consecutive years, only to hear trading jargon
veloping best practices and fostering a sustainable economy. He highlighted the potential economic benefits of adopting environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards, attracting investments that drive growth.
The SEC has prioritized sustainability through digital transformation since 2020, enhancing operational efficiency with platforms like eSPARC, OneSEC, eFAST, eSPAYSEC, eSECURE, eSEARCH, eRAMP and SEC Check App 2.0. These initiatives significantly reduced the SEC’s carbon footprint and paper usage.
The SEC said it planned to launch five new digital initiatives to further streamline stakeholder transactions, aligning with their sustainability goals.
These efforts are integral to the SEC’s mandate to promote corporate governance and sustainability among the sectors it regulates, it said.
Jenniffer B. Austria
You don’t have to be intelligent to climb up the corporate
you have to be curious.
upon employment, such as dovish sentiment, inverted yield curve, belly to long-ends, the greenback, etc.
Now, I’m handling support activities for trading and sales, including counterparty management, compliance and governance, systems, MIS, and other strategic initiatives surrounding the financial markets segment of the bank. So, how was I able to learn all of those things despite having zero background? Was it because I was intelligent and readily picked up all the concepts presented to me? No. Rather, I was curious enough to know what I currently don’t know. I was always attracted to new and uncharted territories, always asking about unfamiliar things. It was only a matter of time when
Alviar said. Sectoral indices ended mixed, with services declining by 1.07 percent and financials dipping by 0.08 percent. Property surged 1.91 percent, while holding firms went up by 1.74 percent. Mining and oil also increased 1.07 percent, while industrial added 0.28 percent. Net value turnover stood at P4.99 billion.
Meanwhile, other Asian equity markets were mixed Monday as investors weigh the impact of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump with data suggesting it has boosted his chances of being re-elected president.
Eyes are also on a key meeting of China’s top leadership in Beijing, with hopes for measures to boost the world’s number two economy, which grew less than expected in the second quarter.
Investors struggled to extend the rally enjoyed on Wall Street last week, where all three main indexes ended on a positive note despite a forecasttopping read on US wholesale prices. The figures were not enough to overshadow Thursday’s news that the consumer price index had slowed more than expected in June, which ramped up bets on a Federal Reserve interest rate cut in September. With AFP
I realized that I gained so much knowledge in a short span of time compared to others who were around the same age as me.
Hence, I would like to highlight that you don’t have to be intelligent to climb up the corporate ladder; you have to be curious.
Whenever you encounter a new word, try to google its definition or meaning. One word a day means learning 365 new words a year. The same goes for those with specializations; it won’t hurt to try or learn about new stuff, even if you have already dedicated your life or career to a certain field or area of expertise.
The sad reality is that many people stay in their comfort zones. I don’t have anything against those who ask for job descriptions (JD) because that is their right. But some are too extreme in that all they want to do is precisely what their JD prescribes, nothing more and nothing less. Then, they will wonder why they never got a promotion. That’s because a promotion means you are ready to accept bigger responsibilities. How can you be entrusted with more when you don’t want to know more?
That’s why in Filipino, “daig pa ng mausisa ang
matalino.”
So, what must one do to be curious or develop an inquisitive mind? Does he have to force himself to be interested in things he does not find amusing? Not really. All it takes is to start with one simple question and then make it a habit whenever or wherever you are. Don’t be discouraged if you cannot get it the first time, so long as there is an effort to know what you currently don’t know until it becomes a virtue. No one is born with a habit, and as I’ve pointed out in an earlier reflection, you don’t need to know everything. But you are not excused from knowing as much as you can.
The author is an MBA student at the Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business of De La Salle University. He wrote this reflection paper for his class on Trends and Issues in Business and Management: CEO Series. He can be reached at charlston_sagaran@dlsu.edu.ph.
The views expressed above are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official position of DLSU, its faculty, and its administrators.
TECH EDUCATION. BingoPlus Foundation, represented by Digiplus Interactive chairperson Eusebio Tanco, BingoPlus Foundation chief operating officer Celeste Jovenir and executive director Angela Camins-Wieneke and SM Foundation, represented by trustee Harley Sy, executive director Debbie Sy, trustee Ramon Gil Macapagal, executive director for education programs Carmen Linda Atayde and senior assistant vice president for scholarship Eleanor Lansang, sign a memorandum of agreement to provide the youth from vulnerable communities access to quality tech education.
FIGHTING HUNGER. Globe Telecom Inc. signs a partnership agreement with SM Development Corp. (SMDC) and Scholars of Sustenance Philippines (SOS PH) to support the Hapag Movement. Joining the event are (from left) Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, Globe board director and chief executive of AC Industrials; Yoly Crisanto, Globe chief sustainability and corporate communications officer; Jessica Bianca Sy, SMDC assistant vice president and project director; Grace Evangeline Sta. Ana, SMDC executive vice president; and Marco James Leyson, SOS PH director of global impact and operations. The partnership aims to rescue over 110 tons of surplus food from SMDC developments to provide 450,000 meals to 90,000 families over the next 18 months. More than 40 SMDC
BUSINESS
Department of Transportation (DOTr)
Secretary Jaime Bautista answers questions from the media during the inauguration of new Philam QC Station of the EDSA Busway. The DOTr and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) led the inauguration ceremony on July 15, 2024.
DTI, ADB in talks for $500-m funding for innovation program
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is in discussions with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to secure $400 million to $500 million in funding for the National Innovation Gateway program, Secretary Alfredo Pascual said at the Tatak Pinoy Act Forum.
The ambitious project aims to transform provincial Negosyo Centers into hubs for learning, innovation and creativity, particularly targeting young Filipinos.
“We will not limit these Negosyo centers to just training, lecturing and mentoring MSMEs but give them op-
SEIPI pins hope on Tatak Pinoy Act to support growth
THE Philippine semiconductor and electronics industry is pinning its hope on the newly-enacted Tatak Pinoy Act to bolster local parts production, potentially curbing the estimated $20 billion spent on imported components.
Semiconductor and Electronics Industry of the Philippines Inc. (SEIPI) president Dan Lachica said the law could spur increased product complexity, driving economic growth and sustainability.
“The Tatak Pinoy Act presents a golden opportunity for our semiconductor industry to enhance complexity, drive growth, and significantly boost our economy through increased local parts production,” he said at the sidelines of the Tatak Pinoy Act Forum.
A key focus is on expanding local parts production, with the industry currently importing $20 billion to $30 billion in components. Localizing this would significantly boost the economy, Lachica said.
The group said only about $320 million of the $20 billion in parts are localized, leaving ample room for growth.
The semiconductor group noted that resolving VAT reimbursement issues is crucial to incentivize local production over imports. “Companies will still want to import despite higher logistics costs if this issue is not resolved,” Lachica said.
Othel V. Campos
portunities to try their hands-on innovation and creativity,” Pascual said. The National Innovation Gateway, set to launch by 2027, will serve as a central platform connecting the regional hubs. It is envisioned as a “window to the global market,” promoting Philippine innovation and es-
AFFORDABLE RICE.
Senior citizens participate in the three-day P29 program trial at #KADIWA sa BPI, which served over 1,100 individuals and achieved gross sales of P164,000 on July 5 to 7, 2024. The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) in Malate, Manila was one of the ten sites in the trial launch for the large-scale “P29” project of the DA in support President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. initiative aimed at providing high-quality rice at an affordable price.
tablishing Manila as a global hub for collaboration.
The Gateway will house a variety of facilities, including the Industry 4.0 Pilot Factory, the Center for AI Research, startup spaces and a one-stop 16-floor government solutions center.
The initiatives are part of the broader Tatak Pinoy strategy, aimed at enhancing the complexity and sophistication of Philippine products and services to improve the country’s position in the global value chain.
Pascual emphasized the need for diversification into more complex product categories to achieve sustained economic growth. He highlighted the Philippines’ strengths in hi-tech exports, particularly semiconductors
and electronics, while acknowledging the need to expand into other areas.
Under the Tatak Pinoy strategy, the DTI is prioritizing several industry clusters with high growth potential. These include industrial manufacturing and transport in the aerospace, electric vehicles, semiconductors, batteries, and green metals industries; technology, media and telecommunications.
Also included are IT-BPM, data centers, creative industries, digital economy; health and life sciences - biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, digital health; and, modern basic needs and resilient economy - agro-industry, infrastructure, steel, textiles, chemicals and renewable energy.
PLDT backs simplified permitting for faster telco rollout
THE PLDT Group reaffirmed its commitment to faster telco infrastructure rollout by backing government initiatives to simplify permitting processes.
“PLDT and Smart continue to support the great strides accomplished by the ARTA and this administration in reducing the time, cost, requirements, and procedures of transacting with the government,” Smart joint strategic operations head Pamela Felizarta said.
“Working together, we were able to craft important policies and an executive issuance, paving the way for the faster rollout of telco infrastructure across the nation,” Felizarta said. She cited key joint memorandum
circulars and the Executive Order No. 32 issued last year by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which streamlined the permitting process for the construction, installation, repair, operation and maintenance of telecommunications and Internet infrastructure in the country and its implementing rules and regulations (IRR).
PLDT and Smart said they have been working closely with ARTA, government agencies such as the Department of Information and Communications Technology, National Telecommunications Commission, Department of Interior and Local Government, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development,
local government units and other industry stakeholders and telcos since 2019 to streamline the process of securing permits for the construction and deployment of telco infrastructure.
PLDT also supported ARTA’s telco workshops, which aimed to further address the bottlenecks in the permitting, licensing and authorizing process to improve connectivity which led to the issuance of the guidelines for the construction and energization of distribution and associated equipment for the supply of power to telecommunications towers within the franchise of electric cooperatives that seeks to reduce the processing time to 30 days. Darwin G. Amojelar
‘Made in the Philippines’ a symbol of quality, innovation, sustainability
DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual said the government aims to ensure that products bearing the label ‘Made in the Philippines’ stand as symbols of quality, innovation and sustainability. Pascual made the statement at the Tatak Pinoy Act Forum on July 15. The forum, themed “Tatak Pinoy Act: In Pursuit of Economic Complexity and Globally Competitive Industries,” convened influential leaders across industries to advance the implementation of Republic Act No. 1198, the Tatak Pinoy Act and unlock its potential in revitalizing the Philippine economy.
“With this, we at the DTI remain at the forefront of our mission to elevate enterprises and entrepreneurs. As part
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Monday the EDSA Busway is undergoing a major transformation to prioritize both security and accessibility, especially for elderly passengers and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
The agency said the busway stations at Monumento, Bagong Barrio, Balintawak, Philam and Guadalupe are being fitted with footbridges, elevators and CCTV cameras.
A total of 166 CCTV cameras intend to boost operational capability and monitor violators of busway regulations.
DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said the agency would expand the improvements to cover the entire 18 busway stations.
“This is for the interest of our riders. This is so that we can attain the objectives of the DOTr. As for accessibility, that will answer it—it will be friendly to our seniors, PWDs,” Bautista said during the opening of the Philam station.
“We will ask for additional budget for this [additional manlifts, smart traffic surveillance system],” he said. Improvements include construction of new stations Philam and Kamuning Stations in Quezon City; construction of pedestrian footbridges in Balintawak, Santolan and Guadalupe stations; and rehabilitation of existing footbridges at Monumento, Bagong Barrio and Philam stations.
Facility improvements also include construction of PWD ramps, catch basins, storm drain pipes as well as provision of pressurized washer for concrete barriers.
Bautista said the new facilities would complement the EDSA Greenways Project.
“This is a continuation of the EDSA Greenways Project. This [EDSA Busway to the EDSA Greenways Project,] will be accessible,” he said.
DOST, Packworks team up to leverage AI for sari-sari stores
THE Department of Science and Technology (DOST) funded Packworks, a Filipino startup that offers a business-to-business (B2B) fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) marketplace for sari-sari stores, to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) aimed at equipping over 1.3 million sari-sari stores nationwide with data-driven inventory management tools.
A P3.5-million research funding from the DOST- Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) Startup Grant Fund (SGF) Program will support Packworks’ P1.5-million allocation to develop a machine-learning-powered precision marketing model, offering sari-sari stores customized recommendations on sellable items and promotions from Packworks’ FMCG partners.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. expressed his support for the project. “Our mission at DOST is to build an integrated, inclusive and sustainable startup ecosystem. We hope to support startups at every stage of development, from formation to validation, until growth,” he said.
of the DTI’s mission of Angat Negosyo, we develop local industries by promoting and supporting enterprises to build a solid domestic market base and eventually expand into the export market,” Pascual said.
The DTI, as the implementing agency of the landmark act, designed a comprehensive industrial strategy under the banner, “ANGAT Negosyo.”
The strategic approach encompasses fostering a vibrant start-up ecosystem, empowering established businesses to enhance their competitiveness, and strategically targeting key sectors for growth.
Central to the growth strategy is the semiconductor and electronics sector, which accounts for 62 percent of the country’s exports.
The SGF Program aims to support technology-based startups by transforming early-stage technologies into market-ready products. Now in its second cycle, the program continues to foster innovation across various sectors, including sustainable industries, education, creative industries, data-driven technologies, climate change, and productivity enhancement tools.
The DOST has supported 123 startups in the country through the SGF program since July 2022.
Sari-sari stores, despite serving as the primary source of daily essentials for around 94 percent of Filipinos, are often faced with challenges such as inadequate financial management, lack of actionable customer insights and ineffective promotional campaigns.
HIGHLAND ROAD. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) completes the upgrade of a three-kilometer portion of an access road to address transportation issues caused by poor road conditions in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo.
St. Luke’s named leading medical tourism facility
By Ralph Harvey Rirao
THE Department of Tourism (DOT)
accredited St. Luke’s Medical Center (SLMC) as the leading medical tourism facility on July 15, 2024.
The accreditation reflects SLMC’s exceptional facility, comprehensive range of healthcare services and advanced medical technology it offers to its patients, together with their skilled and world-renowned medical professionals.
“We are proud to be recognized by the DOT for our efforts in providing quality healthcare to all patients, regardless of where they come from,”
Subic seeks to attract 2,000 locators, $12-b investments
By Othel V. Campos
THE Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) unveiled its future-proofing business plan to attract $12 billion in investments and host 2,000 locators within the Freeport Zone by 2028. The ambitious growth plan is expected to increase the workforce inside the Subic Bay Freeport by 200,000 and boost export value to $3 billion, while contributing P6 billion in dividends to the national government. SBMA chairman and administrator Eduardo Jose Alino said the plan is underpinned by a series of infrastructure projects and initiatives designed to enhance the region’s competitiveness and attractiveness to investors.
These include the construction of new multi-purpose port terminals at Lower Mau with investments of P13 billion and the Redondo Peninsula with investments of P11 billion, aimed at enhancing the region’s capacity to handle cargo and facilitate trade.
A P224-million state-of-the-art traffic management system is also being implemented to improve road safety and efficiency. The Subic Bay International Airport is undergoing a major facelift, with an estimated capital expenditure of P7.02 billion to expand facilities to accommodate increased passenger traffic.
SLMC president and chief executive
Dr. Dennis Serrano said.
“SLMC’s hospitals in Quezon City and Global City are staffed by locally and internationally acclaimed medical experts and are equipped with the latest and state-of-the-art healthcare technology, thus providing optimal patient outcomes through cost-competitive treatments and services,” he said.
As the lead medical tourism facility, SLMC will play a pivotal role in championing the Philippines as an attractive option for individuals seeking high-quality, affordable medical treatments combined with the opportunity to experience the country’s rich cul-
tural heritage and natural wonders.
DOT Secretary Maria Esperanza Christina Frasco shared her personal story as a normal patient on how SLMC treated her leg injury without introducing herself.
Dr. Serrano said the designation is a testament to SLMC’s dedication to delivering the highest standard of patient care.
Frasco also announced the upcoming plans of DOT together with SLMC to provide quality health services to foreign and local patients through medical tourism concierge and lounge, tourism emergency facility and health and tourism app.
GSIS launches housing program for gov’t workers
THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) said it is launching a new housing program for government workers to boost their chances of acquiring any of the 12,000 GSIS properties all over the country.
GSIS president and general manager Jose Arnulfo Veloso said the new program does not require any down payment for government workers to secure property. Instead, the properties are awarded to government workers who will be paying for installments.
“Our Pabahay program has been restructured to truly address the needs of our members. By eliminating the down payment requirement and offering a long-term installment plan, we are not just making home ownership more achievable for our members — we are providing an accessible and affordable housing program,” Veloso said.
“This combination of features is designed to open doors that were previously closed to many of our dedicated public servants,” he said.
The GSIS announced during the stakeholders’ meeting in Laoag City that the new program was previously approved by the GSIS board of trustees.
The Board approved the revised guidelines to allow current lessees to buy their homes on an installment basis with no down payment. Veloso said further changes are being studied to further improve and transform the lease with option to buy (LWOB) program to make it more responsive to the needs of its members. Applicants should be active GSIS members with updated premium contributions, permanent employment status, at least three years of service and net take-home pay of at least P6,000 after loan deductions.
INTERNET search, television and social media, particularly Facebook, remain the primary sources of information on political news and current events across all demographics, based on the latest survey results revealed in PAHAYAG Second Quarter.
The survey, conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc. nationwide, underscores the persistent influence of digital platforms in shaping public opinion.
Internet search tops the list with 68 percent of respondents citing it as their main source of political news.
Television follows closely at 66 percent, highlighting its enduring role in media consumption. Social media, primarily Facebook, emerges as
SUN Life Grepa Financial Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the major insurers in the country, continues to upgrade its services under the Sun Life Grepa Healthcare unit with more digital innovations. The most recent service is its latest digital innovation—the “Digital Healthcare Locator”. The new feature, accessible through Sun Life Grepa’s website, allows clients to effortlessly search for accredited service providers including hospitals, clinics, and doctors nationwide.
“Our commitment to enhancing client experience and providing accessible healthcare options remains unwavering,” Sun Life Grepa vice president for group business Peter
Miranda said.
“The new Digital Healthcare Locator is a significant step in that direction, ensuring our clients can find the medical assistance they need quickly and conveniently,” Miranda said.
The tool offers comprehensive search capabilities which enable clients to search for hospitals, clinics and doctors using various filters such as location and doctor’s specialization.
It also provides information including addresses and phone numbers for hospitals and clinics. For doctors, it includes the hospital or clinic they are affiliated with, along with their contact information.
a significant source, with 63 percent of respondents relying on it for daily updates.
The survey reveals a nuanced landscape in terms of trust in news outlets. GMA 7 leads among television news sources, with a notable increase in trust ratings from 47 percent to 53 percent this quarter. ABS-CBN Online and TV5/Interaksyon follow closely, each garnering substantial trust from the public. Print and online news outlets also maintain strong credibility, with Philippine Daily Inquirer and Manila Bulletin tying as the most trusted at 45 percent. Philippine Star closely follows at 43 percent, reflecting a competitive environment in print
second command conference on July 10, 2024.
IN BRIEF
journalism. Radio, while less frequently used for daily news updates, remains moderately trusted by those who tune in. DZRH, Bombo Radyo and DZBB are identified as the top radio stations for news content, each receiving trust ratings around 33 percent to 34 percent.
The survey underscores the evolving media habits of Filipinos, with a clear preference for digital platforms complemented by trust in established traditional media outlets. As information consumption patterns continue to evolve, these findings provide valuable insights into how media organizations can effectively engage with their audiences.
Veloso
ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY
Aboitiz Group units plant over 2,500 seedlings
THE West Cebu Estate (WCE) team of Aboitiz InfraCapital of the Aboitiz Group and several partners planted over 2,500 seedlings in Balamban, Cebu, marking another milestone in the team’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability.
“Aboitiz InfraCapital’s business units are committed to creating a greener, healthier future in the communities we operate in. This tree planting activity, which we have been doing for the past 16 years, is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together toward a common goal,” said Cyel Auza, Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates vice president for Cebu operations.
‘Resiliency
to
disasters should be a PH culture’
SCIENCE and Technology Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. stressed the advantage of transforming the Filipino context of resilience in building climate and disaster strategies to address the continuing threats of natural hazards.
Solidum, during the opening ceremony of the of the “2024 Handa Pilipinas: Innovations in Disaster Resilience” Luzon Leg held in the first week of July at the Plaza del Norte Hotel and Convention Center in Laoag City, said “the frequent exposure to hazards in the Philippines suggests that we should transform
WCE since March 2008 has demonstrated unwavering dedication to reforestation, with over 100,000 trees planted, strengthening this legacy and fostering community collaboration and environmental stewardship.
This year’s tree-planting activity brought together 333 team member (TM) volunteers, including TMs from MEZ2 Estate and Unity Digital Infrastructure Inc., the digital infrastructure arm of Aboitiz InfraCapital.
the Filipino mindset and culture of resilience.”
“Resilience should allow the Filipinos to adopt, resist, transform, and recover from the effects of the hazard in a timely and efficient manner,” he said. “Resilience is moving beyond merely surviving the impacts of disasters. But instead
making resilience a way of life, embedded in our households, schools, communities, businesses, economy, and governance.”
He said it is not enough that Filipinos continue to have a pleasant disposition even in the face of destruction or damage.
“In most cases, Filipinos are portrayed smiling after any disaster. …this is associated with accepting the worst conditions. However, these norms are a deterrent to achieving resiliency as this leads to lowering the standards for the quality of life that we are supposed to have,” he said.
UNESCO adds Apayao and 10 new biosphere reserves to its global list
THE UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) last week designated 11 new biosphere reserves, recognizing their importance for conserving biodiversity and cultural heritage.
The new designations are in Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Gambia, Italy, Mongolia, Philippines, the Republic of Korea and Spain.
Additionally and for the first time, the list includes two transboundary reserves, spanning Belgium and the Netherlands, and Italy and Slovenia.
The biosphere reserve in Apayao province is the Philippines’ fourth biosphere reserve, along with those in Albay, Palawan and Puerto Galera.
Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO stressed that these designa-
tions come at a time when humanity is “grappling with a biodiversity crisis and climate disruption.”
“At a time when the international community is being called upon to increase the number of protected areas, these new biosphere reserves play an essential role in sustainably preserving the biodiversity, improving the living conditions of local populations and indigenous peoples and fostering scientific research,” she added.
Biosphere reserves are nominated by national governments and remain under the sovereign jurisdiction of the states where they are located. They are designated by UNESCO following an intergovernmental designation process the under the Man and Biodiversity (MAB) Program. UN News
Holcim cited for zero waste, championing environment
LEADING building solutions provider Holcim Philippines Inc. continues to gain momentum in advancing sustainability, earning recognition for its environmental program and expanding waste management partnerships nationwide.
The company’s plants in Norzagaray, Bulacan and Lugait, Misamis Oriental were recognized during the Environment Month celebrations by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources regional offices.
Holcim’s Lugait plant was commended on June 19 for supporting Region 10 local governments in complying with the Extended Producers Responsibility Act and the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. The Norzagaray site was cited for excellence in environmental protection. The recognition came as Holcim Philippines sealed a waste management partnership with the local government of Carmen, Davao del Norte through unit Geocycle on June 10.
The partnership enables Carmen to divert up to 350 tons of sorted residual wastes away from landfills and into Holcim’s Davao plant for co-processing.
Holcim Philippines and Geocycle are providing waste management support to 20 local government partners in Mindanao and 65 nationwide. Holcim Philippines is also ramping up collaborations with private organizations similarly committed to advancing a circular economy.
It participated in the launch of the SM Waste Free Future campaign by leading property developer SM Prime Holdings Inc. and sealed a partnership with social impact organization HOPE, which implements the Aling Tindera program that encourage communities to collect post-consumer plastics to reduce leakage into the environment and educates future generations on proper waste management
Earth registered hottest June ever—the 13th month in a row temperature rose
LAST month was the hottest June since records began and the thirteenth month in a row to set a temperature record, according to new data released last week by the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service.
“These latest figures from the Copernicus Climate Change Service unfortunately highlight that we will be exceeding the 1.5 degrees Celsius level on a temporary basis with increasing frequency, on a monthly basis,” said World Meteorological Organization
(WMO) Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.
The crucial 1.5°C threshold refers to the temperature rise above preindustrial levels beginning in 1850.
Tweet URL
“However, it is important to stress that temporary breaches do not mean that the 1.5 degrees Celsius goal is permanently lost because this refers to long-term warming over at least two decades,” she added.
Efforts to limit the long-term global average surface temperature to 1.5
degrees Celsius by the end of this century were officially endorsed under the Paris Agreement, put into effect in 2016.
The scientific community has warned that warming of more than 1.5 degrees Celsius may lead to increasingly severe climate change impacts and severe weather events, emphasizing the significance of every fraction of a degree.
For example, every 0.1 degree Celsius increase causes “clearly
discernible increases in the intensity and frequency of temperature and precipitation extremes, as well as agricultural and ecological droughts in some regions,” according to WMO, the UN weather agency.
WMO has warned that even at today’s levels of warming, the world faces devastating climate impacts. More extreme heatwaves, rainfall events and droughts, reductions in glaciers and accelerating sea level rise are already ravaging the planet.UN News
The world’s corals are bleaching fast—what it means for the ocean’s future
Three of Four Parts
Bleaching is not always fatal for corals. If water temperatures cool quickly enough the animals can recover.
The problem: bleachings are lasting longer and coming in rapidfire succession. This year’s is the fourth since 1998 and second in the last decade. It follows a devastating bleaching that stretched from 2014 to 2017 that left about 9 percent of the world’s corals dead.
Repeated bleaching has contributed to an unmistakeable trend: corals are disappearing. Between 2009 and 2018, the world lost 14 percent of its coral cover, according to a 2020 study from the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network, which is supported by UNEP.
It remains to be seen just how deadly this year’s bleaching will be.
But a large-scale die-off would have far-reaching consequences for sea life and humans. Corals underpin coastal fisheries, which support 1 billion people.
The long-term outlook for most warm water corals is grim. Humanity continues to churn out the greenhouse gases that have warmed the planet about 1.2°C since pre-industrial times.
The vast majority of that heat is being swallowed by the ocean.
In recent years, four key climate change indicators–greenhouse gas concentrations, sea level rise, ocean heat and ocean acidification–set new records.
Even if the world manages to reach the most ambitious goal of the Paris Agreement on climate change –limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C–70 percent to 90 percent of
reef-building corals are expected to die. If temperatures rise 2°C, 99 percent will perish.
Researchers have found pockets of water off the coasts of Australia, Egypt, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia Saudi Arabia, Tanzania and where corals are resisting the ravages of climate change. In some of these safe havens, known as refugia, the upwelling of cold water from the ocean depths is keeping corals cool. In others, corals themselves have a higher tolerance for heat.
Conservationists are focused on protecting refugia and other coral hotspots from stressors like pollution, over-fishing and coastal development. The hope: give corals the best chance possible to survive climate change. (To be continued)
This underwater photo taken on April 4, 2024, shows fish swimming near bleached coral around Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef, located 270 kilometres (167 miles) north of the city of Cairns. Australia’s famed Great Barrier Reef is teetering on the brink, suffering one of the most severe coral bleaching events
Department of Science and Technology
Dr.
Renato U. Solidum Jr. (second from left, front row) graces the ribboncutting ceremony for the 2024 Handa Pilipinas: Innovations in Disaster Resilience Luzon Leg in Laoag City
HOPE managing director Ilusion Farias (left) and Holcim Philippines chief sustainability officer Sam Manlosa Jr. seal a waste management agreement to advance zero waste and circularity goals.
Aboitiz InfraCapital’s West Cebu Estate team and partners plant over 2,500 seedlings in Balamban, Cebu in celebration of Philippine Arbor Day on June 25, 2024.
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
Julia Montes takes lead role in local adaptation of Nippon TV’s ‘Mother’
ABS-CBN, in collaboration with Japan’s Nippon TV, announces its adaptation of the acclaimed Japanese drama Mother for Filipino audiences. Titled Saving Grace , the series is the tenth international adaptation of the beloved story, renowned as Asia’s most exported scripted format.
Originally aired to critical acclaim on Nippon TV in 2010, Mother has since captivated global audiences with its dramatic exploration of love and motherhood.
“We’re thrilled to bring ‘Saving Grace’ to Filipino viewers,” expressed Cory Vidanes , COO of ABS-CBN. “This heartfelt story underscores the universal themes of family and resilience, making it a perfect fi t for our audience.”
Award-winning actress Julia Montes leads the cast as the titular character, joining a distinguished lineup of actresses who have portrayed the role internationally. Known for her versatility and depth, Montes is set to deliver a powerful performance that promises to resonate deeply with audiences.
Production for Saving Grace is slated to commence soon, with the series scheduled to premiere in 2025. The narrative follows the gripping journey of a compassionate teacher who takes drastic measures to protect a young student from an abusive home life, sparking a nationwide pursuit fraught with emotional twists.
GMA
TV5 introduces local television’s ‘Da Pers Family’
By Nickie Wang
ACCORDING to Charlene Gonzalez and Aga Muhlach , it seemed natural for their children Andres and Atasha to enter showbiz, given their exposure to cameras during commercial shoots. However, they were still surprised when the twins decided to enter the world that had made their parents and relatives household names.
“We were surprised when they expressed interest in the entertainment industry,” Charlene admitted. “Growing up, we provided a comfortable environment where they could explore their passions.” Aga and Charlene allowed Andres and Atasha to enroll in separate schools across different countries because the couple respects their children’s decisions and aspirations.
“Our decision to enroll them in different schools and countries stems from our desire to let them develop their own identities,” affirmed Aga. “Their words and choices hold significance within our family.”
Charlene echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their supportive yet non-intrusive approach: “While we’re here to guide them, we understand the importance of letting them face life’s challenges independently. Hardships are the
best teachers.”
Andres and Atasha, appreciative of their parents’ guidance, expressed admiration: “They’re not stage parents to us; they’re role models we look up to. They teach us about morals and being good people.”
Looking ahead, Aga dreams of seeing his children excel as individuals: “My dream for them is to shine as Andres and Atasha, in any field they choose.”
Charlene Gonzalez added, “Respect and dedication to their work are paramount. Nothing worthwhile comes without effort.”
From left:
The Muhlach family stars in an upcoming sitcom on TV5, airing on July 21. Entitled Da Pers Family, the TV show marks the fi rst time the family is working on a project together.
“If ten years ago or even two years ago you’d asked us if we saw ourselves doing this show, I’d have said no. But we’re happy that we’re doing this because the show also showcases our family dynamics,” Charlene said.
Directed by Danni Caparas Da Pers Family also stars Roderick Paulate, Bayani Agbayani, Chad Kinis, Sam Coloso, Kedebon Colim, and Ces Quesada Da Pers Family follows the story of the Persival family and The Bake Haus of You, a struggling business owned by Aga and Charlene’s characters. Conflict starts brewing when Aga’s former BFF (portrayed by Roderick) tries to drive them out of business. This brings the Persivals closer together as they battle it out to save their bakery. The sitcom airs 7:15 p.m. on TV5, with catch-up airings on Sari-Sari Channel, every Monday at 7:00 p.m.
Network hosts Japan’s ambassador for special visit
Lamando, Ambassador Endo was warmly received by Duavit alongside GMA Network Executive Vice President and CFO Felipe S. Yalong and Senior Vice President
and Head of GMA Integrated News and GMA Regional TV and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso
During the meeting, Duavit reflected on the network’s history of launching its international channel in Japan in April 2005, emphasizing its significance due to the substantial Filipino community in Japan. He also highlighted GMA Network’s ongoing involvement in various Filipinocentric events in Japan.
Duavit further noted the collaborative efforts between GMA Network and the Japanese government, particularly through the GMA Kapuso Foundation. He cited a notable project where the Japanese embassy granted funds to build a multi-story school building in Marawi City in 2019. In response, Ambassador Endo expressed gratitude for the warm reception and recognized GMA Network’s pivotal role in enhancing cultural ties between Japan and the Philippines. He commended the Network as a beacon of culture and storytelling in the Philippines,
remarking on its ability to bring Japanese culture closer to Filipino audiences.
Highlighting GMA Network’s contribution to cultural exchange, Ambassador Endo cited the adaptation of the iconic Japanese anime “Voltes V” as a significant example. He praised the series for resonating deeply with Filipino viewers, embodying values of hope, courage, and unity.
Following the formal discussions, Ambassador Endo toured GMA Network’s newsroom and engaged in an exclusive interview with GMA Integrated News anchor Vicky Morales. Their conversation covered recent bilateral agreements between Japan and the Philippines, joint efforts in disaster response, and opportunities for Filipinos in Japan. Ambassador Endo’s visit to GMA Network forms part of his ongoing engagements with various institutions since assuming office, underscoring the strengthening ties between Japan and the Philippines through cultural exchange and cooperation.
Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr. welcomed
Kazuya
Julia Montes stars as a teacher eager to protect a young student from an abusive home
‘Da Pers Family’ revolves around the story of the Persival family and their efforts to save their bakery, The Bake Haus of You
Aga Muhlach, Charlene Gonzalez, Andres Muhlach, and Atasha Muhlach
The Muhlach siblings express their admiration for their parents during the show’s media conference
From left: Press Officer Shigeyoshi Rintaro, Director of Japan Information & Culture Center Matsuda Shigehiro, Japan's Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kaguya, GMA Network President and CEO Gilberto R. Duavit, Jr., GMA Network EVP
& CFO Felipe S. Yalong, and SVP and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
Be cool for school with back-to-school deals
AS the second half of the year begins, it’s time to gear up for the new school season with style and preparedness. Robinsons Department Store is your ultimate destination for all things back-to-school, ensuring both functionality and fashion in every purchase.
Robinsons Department Store hosts its Back-to-School Midyear Sale, running until July 21, offering essential school items at irresistible prices. Whether looking for uniforms, leather shoes, school bags, or accessories, their wide selection guarantees you’ll find what you need. Exciting promotions await shoppers during this period. Go Rewards members stand a chance to be among 50 winners of P20,000 cash with a minimum singlereceipt purchase of P3,500 using their Go Rewards. Plus, GoTyme Bank Visa debit card shoppers can receive a free GoTyme Shopping Bag for purchases from July 26 to 28, Aug. 16 to 18, 30 to 31, and Sept. 1. For those using BPI Credit Cards, shopping brings additional perks. Until Aug. 31, shoppers can receive up to P500 in gift certificates with minimum spend requirements. Robinsons Department Store caters to every style
Enchong Dee’s humble reflection on Eddys victory,
humble re upcoming projects
Shticks
Joseph Peter Gonzales
included seasoned actors like Roderick
de Leon, JC
and Nanding Josef. When they called my name, it was surreal. Winning isn’t guaranteed in such situations, so delivering my acceptance speech was on my mind.”
ENCHONG Dee, honored with the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in GomBurZa at the 7th Eddys by the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd), humbly expressed his feelings about his achievement.
Despite the recognition, Dee admitted feeling that his portrayal of Father Jacinto Zamora fell short of his expectations.
Proud to contribute to GomBurZa , which serves as an educational reference, Dee also shared his excitement about returning to soap operas with ABS-CBN.
“It’s another advocacy-driven project, which we’ll tackle in a lock-in taping setup to fully embody the character,” he disclosed. Reflecting on his previous soap opera work, Dee expressed his anticipation, stating, “Being part of a teleserye brings you closer to the audience daily.”
* * *
Jessy Mendiola, who recently signed an exclusive contract with Star Magic, shared her thoughts on potential roles involving delicate scenes in films and television.
“In truth, I feel that what I did wasn’t enough,” Dee acknowledged. “Each person has their perception and opinion. Nevertheless, I’m grateful for those who appreciated the effort I put into bringing Father Jacinto Zamora to life. It’s a deeply personal story, and I’m incredibly happy.” Dee, reflecting on the project, emphasized, “Completing the film itself was a victory—a gift from God. Winning this award feels like a bonus and inspires me to do even more.” Regarding his nomination experience, Dee confessed, “I was nervous, knowing the competition
“I’m open to it,” Mendiola affirmed. “My husband, Luis Manzano, supports my career choices, advising me to do what’s necessary for my roles. Comfort is key, and I value his encouragement.”
Addressing speculation about potential collaborations with former flame JM De Guzman, Mendiola clarified, “We’ve never worked together before, even when we were together. I’ve moved on in my life, holding no grudges against anyone.” Content with her current situation, Mendiola expressed gratitude for the opportunity to act again. “I’m secure and happy. I feel blessed with this chance,” she concluded.
preference, whether you’re sporty, chic, or somewhere in between. Makeup enthusiasts can enjoy up to 50 percent off on select lip products in celebration of International Lipstick Day, with an extra 10 percent discount available from July 29 to 31 for Go Rewards members.
Sports and fitness enthusiasts can also find their essentials at discounts of up to 50 percent off on Sports and Active Lifestyle Items, along with free Class Passes from select partners. For home needs, Robinsons Department Store offers discounts and special offers every Wednesday, where shoppers can get P300 off on home items worth P3,000.
Convenient payment options include 0 percent interest and Pay Later on installment plans, making shopping easier on the wallet. Robinsons Department Store offers a Call-to-Order service for those who prefer to
By Angelica Villanueva
TRAVELERS to the Philippines can now expect a quicker and hassle-free journey through the airport with the launch of the country’s Enhanced e-Travel System. This innovative digital platform, a collaborative effort by the Bureau of Customs, Department of Information and Communications Technology, and other governmental bodies, replaces the former cumbersome process with a unified QR code encompassing customs, immigration, quarantine, and other travel prerequisites.
Previously, passengers had to deal with multiple forms for different airport clearances. The new system streamlines this process by providing a single QR code that contains all necessary information. This is expected to significantly reduce wait times at checkpoints.
“ Sa immigration , pagka-scan ng passport , hindi na kailangan magtanong pa. Hindi na magtatanong ‘yan kung meron kang permits kasi naka-integrate na. Hindi na rin siya mag-eencode ng napakaraming data kasi automatic na ‘yung pag fill out ng information. This is a simplified but impactful innovation,” said DICT Undersecretary for eGovernment David Almirol Launched in 2022 to supersede the One Health Pass, the e-Travel System is an online platform accessible through any internet-enabled device.
Travelers can easily register on etravel.gov.ph,
Paulate, Keempee
Santos,
The new platform will help reduce wait times of passengers at checkpoints
TUESDAY, JULY 16, 2024
C4 LIFE
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
IMAGINE being enveloped in a world where art comes alive around you. Not just static paintings on walls, but swirling galaxies, jazzing lights, effulgent crystals, and even the sensation of a gentle breeze rustling through a virtual forest.
That’s the immersive reality waiting for you at Space & Time Cube+, the Philippines’ first immersive art museum. The museum boasts 20 themed attractions and sensory games, each more captivating than the last.
One standout exhibit at Space & Time Cube+ is the Space and Time Tunnel. It transports visitors into another world using high-definition LED screens and advanced 3D technology. The visual effects create a breathtaking, surreal landscape that feels like a cosmic dream.
Another highlight is the Wandering Planets exhibit, featuring an LED sphere that radiates multicolored lights. Surrounded by mirrors and vibrant spheres, it creates the illusion of standing in an infinite galaxy. This enchanting experience mesmerizes visitors with its beauty and tranquility.
The Holographic Glasshouse offers a unique journey into the heart of nature. With four-sided screen projections and stereophonic technologies, it feels as though one
A virtual feast for the senses
Space and Time
3D
in
is wandering through a lush forest. The sound of flowing water and the gentle breeze add to the serene and immersive experience.
The Crystal Matrix is an impressive display of light and mirrors. Mirrored walls and countless LED lights create an illusion of infi nite
the
with a variety of colors. Stepping into it feels like entering a starry wonderland, highlighting both the artistic vision and
GLOBE has teamed up with nine leading Asian mobile operators under the Bridge Alliance to launch the unprecedented “Welcome to Thailand Privileges” campaign, offering an extraordinary experience for customers visiting Thailand.
Led by AIS Thailand in collaboration with the Central Department Store Group, this campaign grants Globe roamers in Thailand exclusive benefits including shopping discounts, dining deals, and more at over 77 Central and Robinson department stores across popular destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiangmai, Samui, and others until Feb. 28.
“We’re thrilled to team up with our Bridge Alliance partners to make roaming more rewarding for our customers,” said Paula Rivera-Castillo, Head of Globe International Business.
“Thailand is one of the top destinations for Filipinos, and now our customers can take advantage of world-class shopping and dining privileges on top of Globe’s close-to-
local data rates,” she said.
Other Bridge Alliance members participating in the campaign are AIS (Thailand), China Unicom (China), HKT (Hong Kong), CTM (Macau), Telkomsel (Indonesia), MobiFone (Vietnam), Taiwan Mobile (Taiwan), Maxis (Malaysia), and Singtel (Singapore).
long after the visit. For those in the Philippines, Space & Time Cube+ offers an extraordinary journey through art and technology. For more information, visit smsupermalls.com or follow S Maison at Conrad Manila on Facebook.
The ‘Welcome to Thailand Privileges’ campaign allows customers to receive exclusive benefits as they explore the country participating Tops Supermarkets, Food Halls, and Fine Food stores. Brand Name Game - Prepare for next-level retail therapy with exclusive privileges and discounts worth 12,000 baht from over 45 world-renowned brands, including La Mer, Estée Lauder, Tom Ford Beauty, MAC, Sabina, Guy Laroche, Marks & Spencer, Sanrio, Smiggle, Adidas, Sunglass Hut, Tissot, Zwilling, PAÑPURI, and Dyson.
Foodie Adventures - Taste the best of Thai street food with discounts at iconic spots like Lofter, Eathai, Living House, and the brand new Public Lane | Public Market food haven in downtown Bangkok. To enjoy the “Welcome to Thailand Privileges,” just activate GoROAM Thailand, then present your passport and GlobeOne app showing the GoRoam Thailand promo at the Customer Service counter of Central Chidlom, Central at centralwOrld, Central Chiangmai, Central Pattaya, Central Patong, Central Phuket Floresta, Central Samui, Central
The
Tunnel utilizes
technology
its visual e ects to create a breathtaking landscape
The immersive art museum showcases 20 themed attractions and sensory games
The Holographic Glasshouse features the beauty of nature from lush forests to deep blue waters
The Crystal Matrix bears mirrored walls and lights which creates a marvelous illusion
Thailand offers numerous tourist spots boasting breathtaking views and unique experiences
Sanctuary of Truth is a museum in Pattaya, Thailand