Manila Standard - 2024 July 20 - Saturday

BIDEN NEARS CRUNCH POINT AMID QUIT CALLS

By Darwin G. Amojelar

Massive global IT outage hits airlines, banks, media

Several PH companies report service disruptions

By Ram Superable, Darwin Amojelar, Joel Zurbano and Miguel Gil

AIRLINES, banks, TV channels and other businesses across the globe were scrambling to deal with one of the biggest IT crashes in recent years on Friday, apparently caused by an update to an antivirus program.

The disruption, which was linked to Microsoft's Windows, appeared to be related to an issue with cybersecurity software from CrowdStrike. From Amsterdam to Zurich, across all continents, airports were reporting problems with their check-in systems.

Several Philippine companies, including major airlines and banks, reported delays caused by technical issues in their computer systems.

Cebu Pacific (CEB) and its sister airline CebGo said they canceled 24 domestic and 10 international flights scheduled for Friday due to the Microsoft system outage.

AirAsia Philippines head of communications Steve Dailisan added: "This outage is causing unexpected rebooting of machines, leading to some operational disruptions related to check-in processes and navigating the AirAsia MOVE app.”

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines, for its part, said its technical systems were “not affected” by the issue.

By Charles Dantes

By Rachelle Tonelada and Rex Espiritu

CHINA accused the Philippines and Vietnam of escalating tensions and exacerbating "differences" in the South China Sea following their recent submissions of extended continental shelf

(ECS) claims to the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf.

FARMERS. President Marcos checks the quality of rice from the newly inaugurated Rice Processing System II at Barangay Ab-abut in

During its 12th Board Meeting presided by Finance Secretary and MIC chairperson Ralph Recto, the Board approved its founding principles and framework encapsulating its overall

More Pinoys rate themselves poor —SWS

By Vito Barcelo and Ram Superable

SOME 58 percent of Filipino families rated themselves as poor while 30 percent claimed they were not poor, according to a Social Weather Stations survey released Friday.

This was 12 points above the 46 percent recorded in March 2024 and the highest since 59 percent of re-

Massive...

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MIAA general manager Eric Ines mobilized additional manpower to manage extended queues at check-in counters and ordered his team to provide "Malasakit Kits" which include food snacks and bottled water to affected passengers.

At least four banks – BPI, Metrobank, UnionBank and RCBC, reported experiencing a slowdown or temporary unavailability of some online bank products and services.

"You may also experience delays in crediting of financial transactions including bills payment and interbank fund transfers as other institutions are likewise affected. Our technical team is already coordinating closely with the provider on the resolution of this issue," BPI said in its advisory.

According to CrowdStrike, there have been widespread instances of "BSODs" (Blue Screen of Deaths) on Windows hosts, indicating system crashes on Microsoft's Windows operating system.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology said its

Maharlika...

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mission, governance structure, and high-level investment approach for 2024 to 2028.

The framework specifically outlines the detailed policies, strategies, and risk management practices guiding the MIC's investment decision-making and

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reelection bid amid mounting opposition within his party.

The New York Times cited several people close to Biden as saying they believe he has begun to accept that he may lose in November to Republican rival Donald Trump and may have to drop out, with one quoted as saying: "Reality is setting in."

It quoted the person as saying it would not be a surprise if Biden soon endorsed

Incredible...

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—well above average by convention standards—as he offered a deeply personal account of his near-death experience before pivoting to grievances over the Democrats' handling of the economy, immigration and other issues.

"We will have an incredible victory, and we will begin the four greatest years in the history of our country," Trump said at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

It was his first speech since a 20-year-old man shot at him, causing a wound to one ear and killing a bystander during a rally last weekend.

In an emotional retelling of the shooting, where Trump said he had "God on my side," the ex-president asked for a moment of silence to honor the victim, firefighter Corey Comperatore. Before a hushed crowd, he kissed the slain firefighter's helmet on the stage.

"I'm not supposed to be here tonight," Trump said quietly, prompting supporters to shout out "Yes you are!"

Minutes earlier Trump took the stage to chants of "USA" from a crowd which has spent the week talking of him in near-divine terms.

"There was excitement, hope. He seemed tonight to be pretty energized," 64-year-old Terry Arnold from the Seattle area, told AFP at her first convention.

"Earlier in the week he looked, understandably, a little weary to me. He's

spondents claimed self-rated poverty in June 2008, the survey revealed. The estimated numbers of self-rat-

Cybersecurity Bureau and the National Computer Emergency Response Team are “vigilantly monitoring the ongoing software outage allegedly caused by a faulty update of a cybersecurity provider.”

"This outage is affecting companies globally, including those in the Philippines, that use the said cybersecurity product. We are in continuous communication with relevant stakeholders to obtain detailed information and assess the full impact of this incident," DICT spokesperson Renato Paraiso said in a statement.

The Philippine Computer Emergency Response Team (PH CERT) estimated it would take “at least several days” before local workstations and servers affected by the shutdown of cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike are up and running again.

PH CERT president Lito Averia said while it cannot be completely ruled out that malicious threat actors had a hand in the shutdown.

“There is no immediate solution to this. The specific file that is causing trouble must be removed from every PC, laptop and server manually. Then, these devices can be restarted and set on recovery mode. This is a very labo-

portfolio management.

As mandated by Republic Act No. 11954, the framework is a prerequisite for the MIC before proceeding with its investments.

ed poor families were at 16 million in June 2024 and 12.9 million in March 2024.

The survey also showed that selfrated poverty in June 2024 rose in all island groups: from 33 percent to 39 percent in Metro Manila; from 38 percent to 52 percent in Balance Luzon, or Luzon outside Metro Manila; from 64 percent to 67 percent in the Visayas; and from 56 percent to 71 percent in Mindanao

Forty-six percent of families also

rious chore, especially for companies with thousands of devices… because the remedy has to be done to each and every device separately,” Averia explained in Filipino.

Major US air airlines initially grounded all flights over a communication issue—though American Airlines later said it had reinstated its flights.

Airports across the world said check-in systems were down and services were being handled manually, with delays likely.

Microsoft said in a technical update on its website that the problems began at 1900 GMT on Thursday, affecting users of its Azure cloud platform running cybersecurity software CrowdStrike Falcon.

"We recommend customers that are able to, to restore from a backup from before this time," the US software giant said.

CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz said on social media platform X that customers had been "impacted by a defect found in a single content update for Windows hosts."

"The issue has been identified, isolated and a fix has been deployed," he said.

Shares in CrowdStrike slumped by

In addition, the Board approved the MIC Board Protocol, which covers the procedures for conducting Board of Directors meetings, its Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations, and general principles of good corporate governance.

Vice President Kamala Harris to replace him as the Democratic candidate.

Former president Obama meanwhile had told allies that Biden should "seriously consider the viability of his candidacy," the Washington Post reported. His office did not comment.

The Axios news outlet separately quoted party figures as saying that Biden could drop out as soon as this weekend, while broadcaster NBC quoted a person close to Biden as saying: "We're close to the end."

Meanwhile Jon Tester of Montana became the second Democratic senator to publicly call for Biden to quit the race,

been through a lot."

Warm-up acts included shirt-ripping 1980s wrestling icon Hulk Hogan and conspiracy theorist and far-right media guru Tucker Carlson, who described Trump's survival as a historic moment.

But while the speech had been touted as the launch of a less abrasive, more unity-seeking Trump, he soon reverted to his familiar painting of America as an apocalyptic ruin that needs saving.

Promising to complete a wall on the US-Mexico border, he said an "invasion" of immigrants had brought "destruction" and "misery" to a "nation in decline."

He vowed to end Biden's massive spending on fighting climate change, calling it a "scam."

Trump again made his false claim that Democrats cheated in his defeat to Biden in the 2020 election. And, despite aides promising that Trump would not even say Biden in the speech, Trump did refer to his opponent by name and "the damage" he has done.

Despite a torrent of scandals, impeachment for his unprecedented attempt to overturn the 2020 election, and 34 felony convictions in May at a New York criminal trial, Trump is on the rise in polls ahead of November.

Now, with Republicans more in step behind him than ever, he is bullish about a shock return to power.

Attempting to flip the script on accusations he intends to rule as an authoritarian leader, Trump insisted that he is "the one saving democracy" and referred to his criminal investigations as "witch hunts." AFP

thought themselves poor based on the food they consumed in June 2024, followed by 39 percent who said they were not food-poor. At least 15 percent said they were at the borderline.

Food-poor families were estimated to be at 12.8 million in June 2024, the SWS added.

Families identifying as poor said they need to generate at least P15,000 per month in order to avoid being impoverished.

Over the past ten quarters, SWS

20 percent in pre-market trading.

"I'm just in limbo as to how long I've got to wait here," flight passenger Alexander Ropicano told Agence France Presse (AFP), as he waited at Sydney Airport in Australia.

The 24-year-old, flying to Brisbane to see his girlfriend, said the airline told him to "wait until the system is operational again," but there is no indication how long that could be.

Media companies were also struggling with Britain's Sky News saying the glitch had ended its morning news broadcasts and Australia's ABC similarly reporting a major "outage."

Some banks reported difficulties in processing digital payments, mobile phone carriers were disrupted and customer services in a number of companies were down.

The global nature of the failure prompted some experts to call for greater resilience in networks and question the reliance on a single provider for such a variety of services.

"We need to be aware that such software can be a common cause of failure for multiple systems at the same time," said software engineering professor John McDermid from Britain's York University. With AFP

Meanwhile, the MIC has secured membership in the IFSWF––an international organization setting governance standards for sovereign wealth funds around the world.

The acceptance of the MIC’s application on July 11, 2024 was based on its willingness to endorse, on a voluntary basis, the Santiago Principles, which pertain to the generally accept-

saying: "While I appreciate his commitment to public service and our country, I believe President Biden should not seek reelection to another term."

Biden's candidacy has been in peril for three weeks since a disastrous television debate against Trump rekindled fears about his age and fitness.

His campaign however insisted he was staying in.

"He's running for reelection. Baseless conjecture from anonymous sources isn't a scoop," campaign official T.J. Ducklo said on X.

Harris made no comment on the

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In particular, Beijing criticized Vietnam's recent submission as a violation of the "Agreement on Basic Principles Guiding the Settlement of Sea-related Issues between China and Vietnam" and the "Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea," jointly signed by China and ASEAN countries, including Vietnam.

"We firmly oppose it and have made serious protests to Vietnam," said China Spokesperson Lin Jian at a press conference.

Vietnam recently submitted its third exclusive continental shelf claims in the South China Sea to the CLCS.

The Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) acknowledged Vietnam's rights to submit claims to the CLCS, including overlaps in the Paracel and Spratly Islands.

However, the DFA also stated that "the Philippines affirms its claim to its extended continental shelf in the Western Palawan Region consistent with its

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(DepEd) turnover ceremony in Pasig City on Thursday, the Vice President said she will no longer accept any Cabinet posts under the Marcos administration.

says the threshold for self-rated poverty has remained consistent.

Based on spending patterns gleaned from the study, respondents said they needed at least P3,000 for housing, P2,000 for transportation, P900 for internet services, and P360 for mobile phone usage.

The survey data was sourced from face-to-face interviews with a sample of 1,500 adults across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao from June 23 to July 1.

DOE sees mixed movement in oil prices next week

OIL prices are expected to have a mixed movement next week based on the fourday trading in the world oil market, the Department of Energy said Friday. “Based on the 4-day trading in the MOPS, mixed movements in the prices of petroleum products will be experienced next week,” DOE director for the oil industry management bureau Rodela Romero said.

Romero said gasoline prices may have no adjustment or an increase of 0.20 per liter while diesel will have a price rollback of P0.30 to P0.60 per liter and kerosene of P0.60 to P0.70 per liter. She said Friday’s trading movement will determine the final adjustments for next week.

“Crude oil prices lost their gaining streak in the early part of the week as market participants remained cautious over the global demand outlook with top importer China experiencing slow economic growth,” Romero said.

ed principles and practices to ensure the effective operations of sovereign wealth funds globally.

The principles put emphasis on appropriate governance and accountability arrangements as well as sound and prudent conduct of investment practices.

The IFSWF Membership grants the Philippines access to a range of privileges, such as international recognition, networking, and peer learning opportunities.

crisis in a speech in the battleground state of North Carolina but praised the president, saying the "contrast between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, it's like night and day."

She also lashed out Trump's new running mate J.D. Vance, saying November's vote was the "most existential, consequential and important election of our lifetime."

While rival Trump prepares for his star turn at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee later Thursday, Biden finds himself in both personal and political isolation. AFP

maritime entitlements under UNCLOS, as demonstrated by our ECS submission made on 15 June 2024."

"We are ready to engage Vietnam on possible ways forward that would help achieve a mutually beneficial solution to South China Sea issues, in accordance with international law, particularly," the DFA said.

Meanwhile, the highest-ranking military officers of the Philippines and Australia talked on Thursday via video call to discuss the pursuit of peace and security in the region.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. and newly-appointed Chief of Defense Force of Australia Admiral David Johnston reaffirmed their nations’ commitment to regional stability and the continuation of strong defense and security relations between the allied countries.

“They also emphasized the importance of their longstanding partnership in addressing shared security challenges and enhancing regional peace and stability,” AFP Public Affairs Office Chief Colonel Xerxes Trinidad said.

“Also, there is an expectation of higher crude flows from Iran. But yesterday's trading and relevant news showed demand optimism after US crude inventories declined,” she added. On July 16, oil companies implemented a decrease in the price of gasoline, diesel and kerosene by P0.60, P0.90 and P1.15 per liter, respectively. Year-to-date total adjustment of the said products stood at a net increase of P10.25 per liter for gasoline, P8.15 per liter for diesel and P1.20 per liter for kerosene, respectively. Alena Mae Flores

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"We just need to prioritize — everything. Then our secretaries can explain the details of the others," Mr. Marcos said.

"So we were there before but that's done. We're just trying to make sure that the language is good now, that everything we want to talk about is there, and we can show the people that we have accomplished something in the past year," he added.

The President emphasized the importance of clear language and showcasing the administration's achievements.

"So we're here now but that's all in the past. We're just trying to make sure that the language is good, that everything we want to talk about is there, and we have something to show the people that we accomplished in the past year,” Marcos said.

On the other hand, several government officials listed various topics they hoped the Chief Executive would address in his upcoming SONA. Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri called for a more detailed report on inflation, the proposed wage hike, and the future of POGOs.

Commission on Elections chairman George Erwin Garcia urged Marcos to stress the importance of voter participation for the upcoming midterm elections.

Former officials, including Herminio Coloma and former Senator Joey Lina, called for greater focus to poverty alleviation, education, job creation, and the West Philippine Sea.

Duterte also said that she will stay out of the midterm polls, disclosing that she turned down requests from both the administration and her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, to support their respective candidates.

Mr. Marcos appointed erstwhile Senator Sonny Angara to replace Duterte at the helm of the DepEd.

The Vice President noted that she would rather “remain in her office in Mandaluyong” and attend to her official projects.

Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office is putting all its personnel in “full alert status” beginning Sunday, which means all police officers must report for duty and no one is allowed to go on leave.

“Starting Sunday, we will be on full alert. Currently, Metro Manila is at the lowest alert level because there is no threat. The airspace above the House of Representatives facility will be a no-fly zone,” NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said in Filipino.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Solon eyes free ASF vax

For small hog raisers

A SENIOR legislator on Friday asked the agriculture department to provide small hog raisers free anti-African Swine Fever (ASF) vaccines when these become available in September.

Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte made the plea as he welcomed the scheduled local rollout of the Vietnamese vaccine that has been found effective against ASF.

“With an effective anti-ASF vaccine in the offing, the DA can best boost its swine repopulation program and provide help to livestock raisers reeling from ASF outbreaks and the lingering impact of COVID-19 on their enterprises, by rolling out a free immunization drive for the hogs of backyard growers, who account for a majority of our local producers,” Villafuerte said. Maricel V. Cruz

Second OFW lounge at NAIA now open

TWO lounge areas are now open to serve Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) at Terminals 1 and 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

On Friday, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) led the inauguration of the new OFW Lounge at the departure area in Terminal 3, located on the 3rd level of the NAIA.

The first OFW lounge at Terminal 1 was launched six months ago.

Joel E. Zurbano

‘Laguna-Albay rail vital for economy’

A LAWMAKER said the Department of Transportation’s (DOTR) plan to operate a cargo rail service between Laguna and Albay will play a “pivotal role” in reenergizing the economy of the Bicol Region, while helping lower food prices for consumers.

A long-time advocate for the revival of the Bicol Express rail line, Rep. Brian Yamsuan of the Bicol party-list group said he hopes that the DOTr would push through with the proposed P5-billion Laguna-Albay freight service project which would significantly bring down logistics costs for Bicol farmers supplying vegetables and other agricultural products to Metro Manila.

“Bicol farmers and traders will immensely benefit from this project. Rail transportation is cheaper and more efficient than trucking services in moving large volumes of cargo over long distances, which, in turn, will help reduce costs for those supplying goods from Bicol to Metro Manila and vice versa,” Yamsuan said. Maricel V. Cruz

Repair of damaged Navotas watergate being hastened

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the local governments of Navotas and Malabon are hastening repairs of the damaged navigational gate of the Malabon-Navotas River.

The concerned government agencies and local government officials have agreed to complete the dredging activity on the waterway by August 2, with start fabrication and installation of necessary structures from August 3, and have the gate fully operational by August 17.

A barge forcibly entered the channel, causing damage to the navigation gate in Barangay Tanza Uno in Navotas City, causing several barangays in Malabon and Navotas to experiencing unusual flooding. Joel E. Zurbano

Solon says House exceeds expectations on legislation

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE House of Representatives under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has performed more than what was expected.

Deputy Majority Leader Jude Acidre of Tingog party-list group made this observation as he cited the passage of multiple Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) priority bills.

“We have heard the Speaker say on many occasions that we passed, not only the LEDAC priority of the President, but even those that were mentioned in the State of the Nation Address (SONA) last year. All of them were ratified by

the House,” Acidre said. He said many of those measures were landmark legislations, such as the Government Procurement Act included in the Medium Term Economic Development Plan of President Marcos. Acidre, chairman of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Welfare, said he expects the upcoming SONA of President Ferdinand Marcos to shed light on the Chief Executive’s priority legislations for the coming year.

Key legislative priorities passed by the House included Ease of Doing Business, Digital Internet Transaction Bill, and E-Governance Act.

The House expects the Auditing Code to get the final plenary nod, as well as the Magna Carta of Seafarers, and the Revised Government Procurement Act.

“All of these are reflective of the economic priorities of the President and also, to hopefully help improve our socio-economic standing,” Acidre added.

He also noted that inflation remains a serious concern and a top priority for the House Speaker, highlighting the actions being taken by Congress to combat rising prices.

ASSERTING that Apollo Quiboloy is “not entitled to seek relief,” Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra asked the Supreme Court to reject the embattled televangelist’s petition for a temporary restraining order (TRO) and writ of preliminary injunction.

Quiboloy, founder and leader of the Kingdom Of Jesus Christ (KOJC), ap -

plied for a TRO and a preliminary injunction against the arrest order issued by the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs and the Committee on Women and Children chaired respectively, by Senators Ronald Dela Rosa and Risa Hontiveros.

The arrest order was issued after Quiboloy was cited in contempt due

of fun for the entire family.

PDLs NO MORE. Some of the 784 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), commonly known as prisoners, from various jails under the Bureau of Corrections, including a handful from the Correctional Institution for Women, flash the thumb up sign moments after receiving their certificates of discharge in a ceremony at the National Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City. The event, held in conjunction with the global observance of Nelson Mandela International Day, was attended by Justice Undersecretary Deo Marco, BuCor director general Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., Public Attorney’s Office chief Persida Acosta, and South African Ambassador to Manila Ntombizodwa Radebe Netshitenzhe. Joseph Muego

to repeated failure to attend the Senate hearings on his alleged criminal activities which included human trafficking, sexual abuse and violence In a comment filed by the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) for the Senate, Guevarra noted that “it had been clear that he (Quiboloy) had no intention of submitting himself to the processes of the

Senators share

SENATE Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III

said he wants to hear the achievements of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the third State of the Nation Address (SONA).

“In the 1st SONA, we heard his plans. In the 2nd, he was just starting his job, but now, there should be achievements especially the departments given huge budgets.”

Pimentel said they also would like to hear what the administration did on the people’s concerns such as agriculture and the prices of goods, particularly the cost of a kilo of rice.

“So we need to hear from the President, With the big budget on agriculture, what were the results,”

Nancy likely to campaign for younger sis

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

AMID the possibility that she would be facing her brother-in-law Rep. Luis Campos in the Makati mayoralty race, Sen. Nancy Binay admitted she would probably campaign for younger sister Abigail’s senatorial bid, just in case.

Meanwhile, former senator Leila De Lima said she would not be running for a political position in next year’s mid-term elections.

“My sister is a lawyer and just like now, Secretary Sonny Angara who is also a lawyer is no longer with us, so we have shortage for lawyers,” said Binay, stressing that the election of her sister to the Senate would be a “welcome development.”

After serving as Makati mayor for three consecutive terms for a total of nine consecutive years, Nancy was not qualified for re-election.

On the other hand, Binay’s prospective rival in the Makati mayoralty race would be the husband of Abby whose term ends in June 2025.

Binay said that running for mayor in Taguig is another option for Abigail.

The senator and Abby had reportedly suffered estranged relations after the latter ran against their brother, then Makati Mayor Junjun Binay who sought a second term in Makati. Junjun lost in that elections.

In an interview on “Teleradyo Serbisyo,” the senator described her sister as a “feisty politician.”

Presently, Binay said she has been preparing for their looming political battle while she also has her own fight over some internal issue in the Senate.

She admitted it was tough as she shifts to another chapter in her life.

court and the Senate.”

“He does not come to court with clean hands,” Guevarra added. The Solicitor General said the Senate inquiry was in aid of legislation, and that Quiboloy’s invocation of his constitutional right against self-incrimination was misplaced. Macon Ramos-Araneta

Pimentel said. Casting doubts on the housing targets disclosed by Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, Pimentel said he like to know what happened in this area. On the other hand, former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said the country’s growth has been dampened by high inflation, a challenge that President Marcos must address “if we are to achieve our goal of becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2028.” Zubiri said he also wants to know about the President’s plan on bringing down inflation and the high cost of goods particularly rice to ensure that economic growth benefits every working-class Filipino. Macon Ramos-Araneta

GRIN AND BEAR IT.

SM City Dasmariñas literally floats its newest attraction, a talking, 30foot Dashing Bear which promises an “obearload”

Norman Cruz

Comelec to summon Mayor Guo

By Vito Barcelo and Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE Commission on Elections said suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo will be compelled to appear before the poll body to respond to a charge for alleged misrepresentation in her certificate of candidacy.

“Suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo will be required to appear before Comelec once it files an election case against her,” Comelec chairman George Garcia said. He said the Comelec is waiting for the report that will come out of the Senate Women Committee’s ongoing inquiry into the country’s POGOs as well as the

Office of the Solicitor General’s plan to file a quo warranto petition against Guo.

“When one answers an allegation, filing a counter-affidavit is a requirement, and the lawyer cannot do that because the accused has to swear to it. It should be the accused who should file and swear to the authenticity of the affida-

Cayetano: Defer bid for additional 600MW

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

DUE to questions over the terms of reference set by Meralco for its competitive selection process (CSP), Senator Alan Peter Cayetano asked the Energy Regulatory Board to defer its bidding for an additional 600 MW of electricity.

The senator said he wants a review of the terms of reference to ensure that they were fair.

“Madam ERC, I think you should postpone Aug. 2 and look into this, sort this out first,” Cayetano said during the hearing of the Senate committee on energy and committee on ways and means, referring to the date of Meralco’s CSP for the additional 600 MW.

He underscored the pressing need to address the lingering issue of high cost of power that affects both investors and consumers.

“This is not only about the high cost of power but it’s also about energy security,” Cayetano added. He said a phrase in Meralco’s TOR could be discriminatory because it effectively disqualified Malampayafueled power plants.

In Memory of

Olimpia

vit,” Garcia said.

The Comelec chief added they can use the basis for the petition for quo warranto to assess if Guo committed misrepresentation in her certificate of candidacy when she ran for the position of Bamban mayor in the 2022 elections.

Guo, who has not been seen in public for several days, has repeatedly claimed to have been born in Tarlac City, Tarlac, which is also the location she declared as her place of birth in her certificate of candidacy.

Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros clapped back on Guo or Guo Hua Ping, who tried to justify her excuses in skipping the previous Senate hearings

by going to social media, asking why public officials and government offices seemed “fixated” on her.

“Don’t worry, we are not fixated on you. We are just allergic to liars,” Hontiveros responded in a statement released Friday.

Guo is being scrutinized for her alleged ties to an illegitimate POGO in Bamban. She is also being questioned for allegedly assuming a Filipino identity, so she could run for public office.

The mayor said she chose not to attend the hearings because she was prioritizing her health and peace of mind, to which Hontiveros replied: “How can you have peace of mind when you keep evading questions?”

IN BRIEF

PAGASA monitoring 2 low pressure areas

THE state weather bureau said it was monitoring two low pressure areas (LPAs) that could develop into tropical cyclones within the Philippine area of responsibility.

As of 8 a.m. on Friday, the first LPA was spotted 225 kilometers west of Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, over the West Philippine Sea. It might develop into a tropical cyclone to be named “Butchoy” while moving away from the Philippine landmass, PAGASA said.

The second LPA was located 840 km east of Eastern Visayas and may also form into a tropical cyclone while moving northwestward over the Philippine Sea.

Should it develop into a tropical depression, it would be named “Carina,” the state weather bureau said. Rio N. Araja

BARMM launches

3-yr madrasah plan

THE Bangsamoro local government launched on Thursday a three-year plan to enhance madrasah education in the region.

At a forum in Makati City, the Bangsamoro Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education (MBHTE) presented the new Madrasah Education Strategic Plan (MESP), which lays out its commitment to enhance the quality of formal madrasah system in the region from 2024 to 2026.

Madrasah is an Islamic educational system that aims to develop Muslim learners to be morally upright and committed to excellence.

Bangsamoro BHTE Minister Mohagher Iqbal said this system is “integral” in building the foundation to a lasting peace in the region.

“Madrasah education is not just an education system but a way of life embodying our values,” he said.

Taguig promotes urban farming

THE Taguig City government is actively promoting an urban farming project to encourage a greener environment and a healthier lifestyle among its residents.

Just recently, the City Agriculture Office (CAO) harvested 40 kilograms of fruits, root crops, and vegetables from the city’s urban demo farms.

The Taguig City Integrated Urban Farm (TCIUF), and the Lakeshore and Taguig Urban Demo Farms at the Senator Rene Compañero Cayetano Memorial Science and Technology High School and RP Cruz Elementary School yielded the significant harvest.

The produce included Chinese cabbages (pechay), eggplants (talong), sweet potato tops (camote tops), malabar spinach (alugbati), taro or elephant’s ear (gabi), lady’s fingers (okra), bitter gourds (ampalaya), sponge gourds (patola), upland water spinach (upland kangkong), moringa (malunggay), and jute mallows (saluyot). Joel Zurbano

Education leaders vow to support Angara

THE Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA) and other private educational organizations have pledged to collaborate with Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara, to improve educational outcomes across the Philippines.

Angara welcomed this support, highlighting the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors.

Private school organizations pledged to aid DepEd in enhancing the quality of basic education through various initiatives, including learner programs, curricular reforms, teacher development, and capacity-building efforts. They also emphasized the importance of public-private complementarity programs.

‘Piyang’ Pineda

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved mother, Olimpia ‘Piyang’ Pineda, on July 16, 2024. Her wake will be held at Cherubin of Heaven Memorial Park, Purok 4 San Pedro, Hagonoy Bulacan from July 16 to July 20, 2024

The interment will be on July 20, 2024. There will be a mass at 9:00 a.m. followed by the procession to Manila Memorial Plaridel, Bulacan at 11:00 a.m.

We welcome you to join us as we honor her memory.

“As we build from the legacy of my father, we continue the pursuit of making quality education accessible to all. And one aspect of that will be to ensure that the Constitutional edict on the complementarity of public and private education is actually put into practice,” Angara said.

Fr. Albert N. Delvo, chairman of COCOPEA, affirmed the group’s readiness to collaborate: “We are ready to share our resources in response to immediately address the goals of the Department of Education under your leadership, to meet the education system’s challenges related to quality, employability, and publicprivate complementarity, including the expansion of government assistance and subsidies.”

House to investigate illegal sale of kidneys

By Maricel V. Cruz

A CONGRESSIONAL resolution was filed Friday calling for an investigation into the illegal sale of kidneys and other internal organs.

“Many kidney donors, particularly those from vulnerable communities such as slums, are often unaware of the risks and side effects of the operation,” AGRI Party-List Rep. Wilbert Lee said.

On July 17, the National Bureau of Investigation arrested three individuals in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan for

being involved in an alleged organ trafficking syndicate. They implicated National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI) staff nurse Allan Ligaya, who remains at large, as the alleged leader of the illegal organ trade, while three doctors were also summoned by the NBI for participating in the blood matching of donors. Reportedly, there were nine alleged victims who were lured with a payment of P200,000 in exchange for their kidneys.

“This may only be the tip of the iceberg,” the resolution stated.

EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY. Stakeholders celebrate the signing of the Madrasah Education Strategic Plan that seeks to overcome challenges in the delivery of quality and inclusive education services. From left: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Afif Hasbullah, Darul Ulum Islamic University; Dr. Muhammad Hafidz Nasrullah, Rector, Darul Ulum Islamic University; Mohagher M. Iqbal, Minister of Basic, Higher and Technical Education; and Tahir G. Nalg, Director General for Madaris Education, Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education.

SCHOOL OPENING PREPARATIONS. A worker at the Aurora A. Quezon Elementary in San Andres, Manila takes chairs out of a classroom to paint them on Friday, July 19, 2024, in preparation for the Brigada Eskwela on Monday. Norman Cruz

OPINION

De-escalation 2.0. to last?

WE HAVE seen a de-escalation order ema-

nating from the Little President, i.e. the Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, following the shocking June 17 incident when the Chinese Coast Guard confronted the Philippine Navy Special Operation Group with axes and machetes, boarded and confiscated firearms from the Filipino soldiers.

Bersamin used very tempered words to describe the CCG actions not meant to be accurate but to be calming and even reassuring to the other side the Philippines did want to “ease tensions.”

Although Bersamin was quickly contradicted by the very hawkish, nay, even vulturish, Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro countering the CCG action was an “aggressive and illegal use of force” – stating these in the presence of President Bongbong Marcos during a visit to the wounded navy man involved in the incident.

For weeks, there was a stand-off between the two government positions reflected by DFA Sec. Manalo and DND Sec. Teodoro sitting side-by-side at Imee Marcos’ Senate hearing on the issue.

This week, just a few days over a month after the June 17 incident, the Department of Foreign Affairs and China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the establishment of a “crisis hotline” between the highest levels of the two governments in case of potential clash situations.

This clearly pursues the de-escalation direction and indicates the Philippine government is sticking by the Bersamin line of downplaying conflict and upscaling dialogue and amicable resolution of differences.

The very next day after the hotline was announced, the US Proxies went into action. Arch anti-China Lawfare (war using legalistic weaponry) enforcer former Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio went forum shopping and was readily welcomed (if not sought after) by the various Salim-Forum Energy and oligarchy linked mainstream media, to say the “PH-China hotline is ‘useless’” and that a hotline had already existed long before but “Beijing rarely answered.”

This was a blatant lie from a former Supreme Court justice.

The Chinese side has always been the eager-beaver party to maintain good communications with the Philippines side on all levels.

We can cite several examples, one is the recent New Year’s call from the Chinese embassy’s defense attache Col. Li to Adm. Alberto Carlos that led to the first “deescalation” in the Feb. 4 “flawless” RORE mission.

The Chinese side is always eager to keep dialogue alive and dynamic cultivate improving relations, but the reverse has been true on the Philippines side since Feb. 2023.

In August of 2023, PCG spokesman revealed a very telling unspoken initiative from the Philippines side that year.

Tarriela revealed that during the visit in January of 2023 of President Bongbong

Marcos to President Xi Jinping, one of the MoUs proposed by the Chinese side was the renewal of the Philippines and Chinese coast guard hotline set since 2017.

In the words of Tarriela to the Philippine media: “This is one of the MoUs proposed by the Chinese Embassy but not renewed.”

The proponent would not have been the one to decline a renewal.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila was thrown into a panic in Feb. 2023 when all calls of the embassy from all levels to all levels of the Philippine government were snubbed.

Total silence met even the calls from the ambassador’s office to all levels of the Philippine government, and this was shocking to the embassy as PBBM just had one of the warmest welcomes to Beijing accorded by President Xi Jinping to any head-of-state, but a wall of silence followed in February after the Philippines agreed to the US “assertive transparency” strategy.

The unrenewed Philippine-China coast guard hotline MoU is now being replaced by a new PhilippineChina hotline reaching all the way to the highest offices of the two governments!

What followed Feb. 2023 had never been seen before in the 25 years since the BRP Sierra Madre had been deliberately grounded at the Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 when one could count on the fingers of two hands the number of significant clashes between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea.

After Feb. 2023, it became almost a weekly confrontation escalating to allegations of “military grade laser” then to “water cannon me” incidents, towards an easing in Feb. 2024, then the June 17 incident happened,

The unrenewed Philippine-China coast guard hotline MoU is now being replaced by a new Philippine-China hotline reaching all the way to the highest offices of the two governments!

We take the DND and the defense establishment hawks are quiet on this hotline revival and only the civilian US Proxies are vituperating against it.

Does this mean the riot act has been read to the US Proxies in the government bureaucracy and de-escalation is on its way back to permanence? It’s one for Ripley’s.

NICA: Soaring high @ 75

By Melandrew T. Velasco

FOR ordinary folks the words intelligence, information gathering or surveillance, are usually associated with nameless people working on the sidelines to carry out tasks related to security matters. Worldwide, countries have agencies to ensure their security and stability.

The changing geopolitical landscape and terrorism threats coupled with rapid advancement of information and communications technology make it imperative for national security agencies to level up to address these challenges. Although the history of intelligence work here began even before the arrival of colonizers, it was only 75 years ago when a single entity was thus established.

On July 10, 1949 President Elpidio Quirino issued Executive Order 235 creating the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, mandated with coordinating all government activities with respect to national intelligence and preparation of intelligence estimates and summaries of both local and foreign situations to be made available to the President and policy-making body.

Although NICA has undergone changes since, its contributions in maintaining peace and stability cannot be understated. It has remained steadfast in its mission to lead in directing, coordinating and integrating all government activities involving national intelligence.

NICA has contributed to the economic development of the country, and has been

instrumental in the peace and order the country is enjoying while watching over the national security situation within the country’s borders and beyond.

To chronicle its journey and celebrate its diamond anniversary, NICA Director General Ricardo F. De Leon, deemed it fitting to publish a coffee table book. Through its Special Working Group on NICA Publication, the legacy book Honoring the Past, Illuminating the Future emerged.

Although NICA has undergone changes since, its contributions in maintaining peace and stability cannot be understated

This is my second collaborative book project with DG De Leon, having done in 2019 the 25 Years of Philippine Public Safety College where he was then its president prior to being named NICA director general.

The nine-chapter, 291-page book is published and printed by Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. It is a privilege to be able to contribute in making this legacy book as its Project Consultant and Publisher.

The book tackles NICA’s utilization of

Sad scenario: Reefs in decline

OVER

EXPLOITATION

with dynamite fishing, climate change as well as sediment and nutrient pollution are contributing to the downswing of reefs in this archipelago of 115 million.

Marine ecologists and coral biologists say coral reefs, often called the “rainforests of the sea,” are among the most biologically diverse and economically valuable ecosystems on Earth.

Despite occupying less than one percent of the ocean, coral provides a habitat for approximately 25 percent of the world’s marine life, sustaining more than 4,000 fish species.

But coral reefs – some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world – face threats to their health and survival.

In the Philippines, for instance, the reefs are predominantly in decline, chiefly because of overexploitation –overfishing or overharvesting faster than they can be replaced – with regular dynamite fishing.

Ecologists and biologists say the degradation of Filipino coral reefs follows a

similar pattern to that for tropical rainforests, where more than 6,074 of the original forest area has been cleared, and at least 80 percent and possibly 90 percent of the original mangrove forest area in 1920 has been lost. This clearing, according to them, has resulted in extensive sediment deposition onto nearshore coral reefs, which predominate in the Philippines, resulting in loss of fisheries.

—“—

The recent nationwide assessment of 206 fringing reefs in the Philippines revealed the loss of one-third of their hard-coral cover such that none qualified to be in excellent status

A recent study shows 90 percent of Philippine reefs are in poor to fair categories and none in excellent state, the dismal condition further exacerbated by destruction of marine habitats including dump-and-fill projects, destructive fishing practices, climate change, pollution

THE air was thick with anticipation as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ascended the podium during his campaign, promising the Filipino people a future where rice would be affordable for every household.

The crowd’s roar was deafening, a testament to the deep-seated longing for this staple to become within reach of even the poorest families.

Yet, behind the scenes, a labyrinth of challenges lay in wait, threatening to derail this ambitious pledge.

The journey to P29 per kilo rice, now set to become a reality at 23 Kadiwa outlets by August, was fraught with adversity.

The path was not just a political slogan but a gauntlet of economic, logistical, and bureaucratic obstacles that had to be navigated with deft precision.

The promise and the roadblocks

Marcos’s pledge was more than just a populist promise; it was a response to the escalating prices of basic commodities that left millions struggling.

The early days of this initiative saw critics questioning its feasibility, especially given the country’s dependence on rice imports and the volatile global market.

The rice subsidy scheme, pegged at P20 per kilo, required an eye-watering P220 million per day, a figure that seemed insurmountable.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., the man at the helm of this Herculean task, faced the brunt of these challenges.

Aging stocks from the National Food Authority were a critical concern.

The quality of these grains, some argued, would deteriorate, undermining the very purpose of the program.

Moreover, the logistics of distributing rice to 13 Kadiwa outlets, soon to be expanded to 23, involved a coordination nightmare across the archipelago’s fragmented geography.

the potentials of information technology, is modernizing not just its facilities and equipment as it continuously provides personnel training in digitization.

Creating linkages with other local institutions and foreign entities is important for the agency to carry out its tasks and boost its resiliency.

A unique feature of the coffee table book are contributions written by some of the NICA staff recounting their experiences in the agency.

A chapter is dedicated to the previous NICA Directors General – from Agustin G. Gabriel known as the “Father of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency” to Alex Paul I. Monteagudo and the reforms they introduced. A separate chapter is dedicated to current NICA DG De Leon. NICA under his

Bridging the gap Yet, where there were challenges, there were also ingenious solutions.

The National Irrigation Administration’s contract-growing arrangement with local rice farmers was a masterstroke, ensuring a steady supply to supplement NFA stocks.

This move not only supported the P29 rice program but also bolstered the local agricultural economy, creating a ripple effect of benefits.

The implementation strategy was meticulous. Vulnerable households, including members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), solo parents, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, were prioritized.

—“—

The road to affordable rice has been long and arduous, but it stands as a testament to what can be achieved with vision, determination, and collaborative effort

By targeting these groups, the program ensured that the aid reached those who needed it most, maximizing the impact of every grain distributed.

A Win-Win Scenario

From an economic perspective, the P29 per kilo rice initiative is a game-changer. It alleviates the financial burden on millions of households, allowing them to allocate their limited resources to other essential needs.

For the agricultural sector, it represents a symbiotic relationship between the govern-

leadership is known as NICA +3Cs Era, referring to Cybersecurity, CBRN – Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear, and Counterterrorism, issues affecting national security. Also discussed is SOAR HIGH, the agency’s guide in formulating plans, programs and activities as it carries on its tasks as the premier national intelligence organization. SOAR HIGH, an initiative of DG De Leon, stands for the national intelligence strategic objectives: S for Strengthen and protect territorial integrity; O for Operationalize an agile organization and further capacitate human resources; A for Accelerate efforts to address all national security threats; R for Revitalize ICT systems and strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure;

and man-made pressures. It is a despairing observation that the government currently has insufficient resources to manage effectively the reefs and protect them from over-exploitation. With the population increasing, there are few prospects that significant national resources will be diverted towards reef management.

But there is an emboldening strategy that is proving effective for coastal resource management – with governments in the barangays adopting local area management plans.

These were successfully introduced years back and have spread to other regions, with ecologists saying if central governments assisted the decentralization of power, these local management activities may prove to be most effective at retaining coral reef resources against increasing anthropogenic or humaninduced stress.

More than 500 species of coral are found in the Philippines – the apex of the Coral Ttriangle which has nearly 1,800 species of reef fish. Of these, less than 200 have been assessed as “effectively managed.”

The recent nationwide assessment of 206 fringing reefs in the Philippines revealed the loss of one-third of their hardcoral cover such that none qualified to be in excellent status.

ment and local farmers, fostering a more self-reliant economy.

Socially, the program is a source of inspiration. It reinforces the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens, strengthening the social fabric.

Politically, it is a testament to the administration’s resolve to fulfill its promises, a rarity in the often cynical world of governance. Applauding the contributors Credit must be given where it is due. President Marcos, with his unwavering commitment, has delivered on a promise that many deemed impossible.

Secretary Laurel Jr. deserves accolades for his strategic acumen and tenacity in navigating the program through turbulent waters.

The Department of Agriculture’s relentless efforts have been pivotal in making this dream a reality.

Moving forward, it is crucial to ensure the sustainability of the P29 rice program. Expanding the contract-growing arrangements and investing in agricultural technology can further enhance productivity and reduce dependency on aging NFA stocks.

Additionally, transparent and efficient logistics management will be essential as the program scales to more areas.

Moreover, continuous monitoring and feedback mechanisms should be instituted to address any emerging issues promptly. Engaging with stakeholders, including farmers’ groups and local communities, will ensure that the program remains responsive and adaptive to ground realities. The road to affordable rice has been long and arduous, but it stands as a testament to what can be achieved with vision, determination, and collaborative effort. As the first sacks of P29 per kilo rice are sold at Kadiwa outlets, a promise made becomes a promise kept, heralding a new chapter in the fight against poverty and food insecurity in the Philippines.

H for Hasten global engagements and pursue stronger international collaborations; I for Institutionalize the Agency’s lead role in intelligence investigations and operations; G for Generate maximum efficiency in the distribution and judicious utilization of financial resources; and H for Heighten monitoring of economic, environment, and energy opportunities and risks. NICA supports the Bagong Pilipinas campaign of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. with its 10-point commitment “A CAPABLE US.”

(MTV, book author and publisher, is president and chief executive officer of Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. and president/executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc., an NGO advocating treeplanting and environmental protection.)

IN BRIEF

Force commander Li Yuchao had been expelled from the party and stood accused of “grave violations of discipline”. Thursday’s readout marked the first time that the investigation into Sun, appointed chief of staff of the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force

US-based Guo Wengui, a fierce critic of the Chinese Communist Party and ally of right-wing figure Steve Bannon, was found guilty Tuesday of defrauding customers of more than $1 billion in a New York federal court. He faces decades in prison.

On Friday, Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs said it had used a law against foreign interference to order Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and X to block access to 95 accounts belonging to the billionaire and his affiliated organizations.

Among Guo’s allegations was that a “foreign actor” -- identified as China in local media -- was behind the selection of new Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who took over from Lee Hsien Loong in April. AFP

SINGAPORE – Two oil tankers caught fire off the coasts of Singapore and Malaysia on Friday but all crew have been accounted for, authorities from both countries said, with the Malaysian side describing the incident as a “collision”. The blaze broke out on board Singapore-flagged tanker Hafnia Nile and another vessel about 55 kilometers northeast of Pedra Branca, according to Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority. Neighbouring Malaysia’s Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) referred to the incident as a “collision” and said it also sent rescue teams to the area. Singapore’s MPA said in an update that the Hafnia Nile had 22 crew on board and the other vessel, the Ceres 1, had 40.

“All crew are accounted for,” it said. A Republic of Singapore Navy frigate, the RSS Supreme, picked up 16 crew from the Hafnia Nile.

Six crew from Hafnia Nile who evacuated the ship on a lifeboat were picked up by a Malaysian government vessel and transferred to the RSS Supreme, MPA said, adding they were all receiving medical attention while on their way to shore. AFP

SEOUL – The South Korean military on Friday said it had restarted loudspeaker propaganda broadcasts directed at North Korea in response to Pyongyang sending hundreds of trash-carrying balloons across the border.

Seoul said it detected about 200 trash balloons sent by North Korea from Thursday to Friday, marking the eighth round of such launches by Kim Jong Un’s government since late May.

“We have repeatedly and sternly warned North Korea about their continuous release of trash-carrying balloons,” South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. Following the warnings, “our military conducted loudspeaker propaganda broadcasts towards the North” from Thursday evening to Friday morning, it added. Later Friday, the JCS said it had restarted the broadcasts at 4:00 pm (0700 GMT), and that it would do so “continuously” -without specifying the planned duration of the fresh broadcasts. AFP

Bangladesh capital bans rallies after gov’t buildings torched

Yemen rebels claim deadly hit deep inside Israel

TEL AVIV – Yemen’s Iran-backed Huthi rebels said they fired a drone that caused an explosion in Tel Aviv early Friday that left one person dead, injured four and set off a new shock for Israel more than nine months into its war in Gaza.

The Israeli military said an initial investigation showed the blast was caused by “the falling of an aerial target” that did not set off alarms. It said air patrols had been stepped up.

An Israeli military official said a “very big” drone was used in an attack on Tel Aviv on Friday that killed one person, and “human error” led to the missile not being intercepted. Yemen’s Huthi rebels claimed responsi-

bility for the attack that caused an explosion at a building near the US embassy in Tel Aviv.

The military official told a briefing an attack by the Iran-backed Huthis was “one of the possibilities” being investigated.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said “a very big drone that can travel long distances” was used in the attack which was at 3.12 am.

He said the drone “crashed into an apartment building” and “it wasn’t a tiny drone”.

The official said the aim was “terrorism.” “Their main goal was to kill civilians in Israel.” The official said the drone was detected

Russia ‘spy’ trial of US reporter Gershkovich reaches final stages

YEKATERINBURG, Russia – Russia’s expedited espionage trial of US reporter Evan Gershkovich reached its final stages on Friday in a case condemned as a sham by Washington. The 32-year-old correspondent for The Wall Street Journal is the first Western journalist in Russia to be charged with spying since the Soviet era. He was detained in March 2023 on a reporting trip to the Urals city of Yekaterinburg and then spent almost 16 months in Moscow’s notorious Lefortovo prison.

If found guilty by a closed military court, he faces a sentence of up to 20 years in a penal colony.

The latest closed-door hearing started around 10:45 am local time at Sverdlovsk Regional Court in Yekaterinburg, with the prosecution and defense teams set to give their final arguments. Court spokeswoman Yekaterina Maslennikova told journalists and supporters

but the alarm was not immediately raised because of “human error.”

“There was no alert that sounded in Tel Aviv because it wasn’t activated.

“There was a human error that caused the interception and defence systems not to be operated,” the official said.

“Obviously, one of the possibilities we’re looking into is Yemen because of the Huthi announcements. But we’re not ruling out anything.”

The official said another drone was detected on Israel’s eastern border.

“Last night, there was another incident where we thwarted a UAV on our eastern border, another UAV.” He gave no details on where it came from. AFP

DHAKA – Police in Bangladesh’s capital banned all public rallies on Friday after the deadliest day of ongoing student protests so far saw government buildings torched by demonstrators and the imposition of a nationwide internet blackout.

This week’s unrest has killed at least 39 people, including 32 on Thursday, with the toll expected to rise after reports of clashes in nearly half of the country’s 64 districts. Students took to the streets again on Friday morning ahead of pro-government counter-demonstrations slated to begin after midday prayers in the Muslim-majority nation.

Dhaka’s police force took the drastic step of banning all public gatherings for the day -- a first since protests began -- in an effort to forestall another day of violence.

“We’ve banned all rallies, processions and public gatherings in Dhaka today,” police chief Habibur Rahman told AFP, adding the move was necessary to ensure “public safety”.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police spokesman Faruk Hossain told AFP that officers had arrested Ruhul Kabir Rizvi Ahmed, the joint secretary of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

“He faces hundreds of cases,” Hossain said, without giving further details on the reasons for Ahmed’s detention.

Police in the capital earlier said protesters had torched, vandalised and carried out “destructive activities” on numerous police and government offices.

Among them was the Dhaka headquarters of state broadcaster Bangladesh Television, which remains offline after hundreds of incensed students stormed the premises and set fire to a building.

“About 100 policemen were injured in the clashes yesterday,” Hossain told AFP. “Around 50 police booths were burnt”.

Police fire was the cause of at least twothirds of deaths reported so far this week, based on descriptions given to AFP by hospital staff. AFP

AMID IT BLACKOUT. Burnt building of Bangladesh bridge authority is pictured after students set it on fire amid the ongoing anti-quota protest in Dhaka on Friday, when Bangladesh woke up to survey destruction left by the deadliest day of ongoing student protests so far, which saw government buildings torched by demonstrators and a nationwide internet blackout put into effect. AFP

AMID INTERNET BLACKOUT. Israeli policemen search the scene where an explosion took place in Tel Aviv on Friday. Yemen’s Iran-backed Huthi rebels claimed responsibility for a drone attack on the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, where police said one person was found dead. The rebels fired a ‘new drone called Yafa, which is capable of bypassing the enemy’s interception systems,’ Huthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said in a statement on social media. AFP

Brown takes British Open lead, McIlroy, Woods in awful starts

TROON, United Kingdom— Unheralded

Englishman Daniel Brown shot into a shock lead of the British Open at six under par as Rory McIlroy was among the big names to struggle on day one of the 152nd British Open at Royal Troon.

Brown, the world number 272, birdied two of the last three holes to lead by one from 2019 winner Shane Lowry.

“I’m going to try and sort of keep my feet on the ground a bit and take on the job again tomorrow,” said Brown, who is competing at his first major.

McIlroy posted a seven over par round of 78 with his hopes of ending a 10-year wait to win a major floundering as most of the field struggled in the wet and windy conditions on Scotland’s west coast.

Of the 156 players in the field to complete their rounds, only 17 posted a score under par.

Lowry, who won his sole major at the British Open five years ago, made the most of the calm late afternoon conditions with three birdies in five holes around the turn and picked up another at the 18th.

“I’d give anything to win this tournament again,” said Lowry.

“It’s great, but there’s three rounds left. If I don’t play well the next three rounds, it doesn’t matter what I shot today. I’m fully aware that I have a job to do over the next three days.”

Two-time major winner Justin Thomas is lurking at three under, while recently crowned USPGA Championship winner Xander Schauffele is among a group of seven on two under that also includes Justin Rose.

World number one Scottie Scheffler cut a frustrated figure on the greens but is still in the mix after a one under round that featured four birdies and three bogeys.

McIlroy was aiming to get over

POCO PUBG

Mobile Philippines Cup set with over P150,000 in prizes

CALLING all PUBG Mobile players!

Get ready to dominate the battleground as POCO Philippines throws down the gauntlet for the 2024 POCO PUBG Mobile Philippines Cup, a thrilling esports tournament with a massive prize pool of P178,000 worth of POCO products and exclusive in-game rewards!

An initiative to tap the bustling and thriving Philippine esports scene, the POCO PUBG Mobile Philippines Cup is open to all PUBG Mobile players in the country who are 15 years old and above.

The top team will take home a whopping P115,000 worth of POCO products, while the second-place team walks away with P63,000 worth of prizes. On top of that, the top three teams will receive exclusive PUBG Mobile in-game rewards!

The rules and mechanics of the POCO PUBG Mobile Philippines Cup are as follows.

This tournament series is open for players who reside in the Philippines, and meet the participation requirements per game. Players 14 years old and below are not allowed to join in this tournament.

Teams can register in multiple qualifiers but if the teams have qualified from the played qualifier, the slot for the next qualifier will be forfeited.

Teams should comprise four players plus a reserve in case of substitution. By registering, teams acknowledge that all usage of photos, videos, and any form of recording during the tournament have been given legal consent by the players for media and marketing purposes.

Team and player names may not use offensive or vulgar names. Names that are found to be offensive or vulgar will not be tolerated by the organizers, and a request of name change is allowed during and before the competition. Participants who do not follow this instruction will be disqualified.

his heartbreak at the US Open last month, where he missed two short putts to blow the lead as Bryson DeChambeau claimed his second major by one shot.

However, the Northern Irishman’s round, and probably championship, was blown off course at the postage stamp 120-yard eighth.

McIlroy was unfortunate as his near-perfect tee shot slipped off the green into a bunker, which he took two attempts to escape, to post a double bogey five.

Another double bogey followed at the 11th. He also dropped shots at the 10th, 15th and 18th.

“All I need to focus on is tomorrow and try to make the cut,” said McIlroy.

“I need to go out there and play better and try to shoot something under

par and at least be here for the weekend, if not try to put myself up the leaderboard a bit more and feel like I have half a chance.” Woods wobbles

DeChambeau had been the form player in the majors so far this year, despite his defection to the breakaway LIV Tour.

The American finished sixth at the Masters and runner-up in the USPGA Championship before claiming his second US Open.

However, his struggles with the windy conditions of links golf continued as he was six over par for his opening nine holes.

DeChambeau battled back on the back nine as an eagle on the 17th helped him to a 76.

“I’m just proud of the way I persevered

Strong Group’s Abarrientos, Ildefonso aim for Jones Cup win

William Jones Cup for Strong Group-Pilipinas. After all, they grew up watching Philippine teams compete in the Taiwan meet. And they don’t want to suffer the same heartbreak as some Philippine teams have experienced before, yearning to win the Philippines’ seventh

today,” said DeChambeau. “I could have thrown in the towel after nine and could have been like, ‘I’m going home’. But no, I’ve got a chance tomorrow. I’m excited for the challenge.”

Thomas recovered from his own double bogey at the 12th to post a 68, which was 14 shots better than his opening round at Royal Liverpool 12 months ago.

World number three Schauffele continued his fine form in recent months as he dropped just one shot to put himself among the chasing pack.

Tiger Woods had hit back at suggestions from former European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie that he should retire, but the 15-time major champion failed to prove he can still be competitive with a 79. AFP

PSL Global: PH teams sweep elims,

TEAMS from the Philippines completed a sweep of their respective elimination-round campaigns in the PSL Global Championship Challenge Friday at the Victoria Sports Club as representatives from Born 2006 and 2004 will enter the semifinal round undefeated.

The Born 2006 squad, represented by Cebu’s University of San Jose Recolletos’ champion team in the recent National Finals, outlasted Thailand’sTraill International School, 54-47, in what could be a preview to the championship match.

Jan Vince Oringo, the reigning National Finals Most Valuable Player, took a backseat in the offense and let Fritz Gonzales carried much of the load.

Oringo scored only six points, but still managed to pull down nine boards in 19 minutes of play.

Gonzales, on the other hand, led the

The PhilippinesCebu’s defense on Don Wayde Basadre of Thailand-Traill International School worked wonders on Friday as the team completed a sweep in the elimination round of the PSL Global Championship Challenge.

on the court,” added Ildefonso. Strong Group clinched a top-two finish in the tournament with two games remaining after beating Japan’s Under-22 team, 92-79, on Friday. Abarrientos is averaging 7.8 points on a 40.6-percent shooting clip from deep, a team-high 5.7 assists, and 2.3 rebounds per game. Ildefonso, on the other hand, is averaging 5.0 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.

“SGA really helped me a lot para I can get more runs under my legs and more wind in my lungs. I really need the games and the runs. It really helped me prepare for the PBA,” said Ildefonso, who played sparingly during his two-year stay with KBL team Suwon KT Sonicboom.

secure no.1 semis seats

CEBU CITY—Dedicated to championing Filipino talents and empowering youth athletes, DITO Telecommunity proudly supported this year’s Palarong Pambansa as the main co-presenter in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) by providing technological support and seamless, high-speed connectivity for an enhanced experience for all athletes, delegates, and spectators in this highly anticipated sporting event in the country.

DITO’s next-generation technology played an essential role in powering 20 billeting quarters, 34 sporting venues, and all command centers. Such support benefited around 30,000 athletes and delegates, allowing them to access digital resources and stay connected with their families while being apart from each other, fostering a sense of unity and support regardless of distance. Another standout feature of DITO’s support was the deployment of a cell site on wheels to provide stronger and more reliable network service. This technological boost ensured that all attendees, including athletes, delegates, and organizers could enjoy seamless connectivity and hassle-free communication all throughout the event duration.

way with 22 markers and capped his big game by grabbing 10 boards. Jan Petillos contributed 10 points for the Philippines, which ended the elims with a perfect 5-0 win-loss record and secured the No.1 spot. The Philippines will take on Canada-GIGG in the winner-take-all semifinals showdown on Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

In the Born 2004 category, the Philippines, represented by DavaoNTB Wolves, waylaid UK-KAMPI Basketball, 77-57, to also enter the Final Four with an unblemished 5-0 win-loss mark.

Reigning National Finals MVP Eimrod John Rodulfa made his presence felt this time, scattering 16 points, dishing out five assists, leading the Mindanao National Finals champion to the next round to face Canada-GIGG in the knockout semis duel, also on Saturday, 4 p.m.

“To further elevate the experience of our athletes this year, DITO powered the various headquarters and gaming venues with highspeed 5G connectivity, bringing greater capacity, wider coverage, and internet connection speeds that are 20 times faster than 4G. With this, participants could easily connect to DITO’s WiFi hubs to enjoy and experience the reliability of our technology” said Ret. Maj. Gen. Rodolfo “Genboy” Santiago, DITO Chief Technology Officer.

During the opening ceremony on July 9 which commenced with a vibrant parade introducing each region of the Philippines, highlighting the unique cultures of each region and emphasizing the diverse “Galing” of Filipinos across the country, DITO also ensured a seamless live stream on social media, giving Filipinos and spectators nationwide access to highdefinition streaming experience of the largest sporting event in the country. The opening event was further amplified by a spectacular performance by rising P-pop boy group and GalingDITO ambassadors Alamat. Their performance of the song “Ang Galing DITO” not only thrilled the audience but also inspired them with its powerful message of celebrating local talents and diversity.

England’s Daniel Brown watches his iron shot from the 17th tee on the opening day of the 152nd British Open Golf Championship at Royal Troon on the south west coast of Scotland. AFP

DITO has empowered young athletes to reach new heights, reflecting the company’s dedication to nurturing Filipino talents nationwide.

RK Abarrientos

SATURDAY, JULY 20, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

PBA explores tie-up with HK group

PRELIMINARY talks

started on a positive note over lunch at the EDSA Shangri-La Hotel last Thursday as PBA commissioner Willie Marcial and PBA Ginebra Board Governor Alfrancis Chua met with Hong Kong Eastern Chairman Frankie Yau, Sporting Director Tony Wong and basketball team manager Oliver Lee to discuss a possible collaboration in the Commissioner’s Cup next season.

Hong Kong Eastern and Singapore Slingers are on the table as guest team options in the next Commissioner’s Cup where in 2022-23, the PBA welcomed the Bay Area Dragons who went to the Finals and lost to Ginebra in an epic Game 7 duel that drew a record crowd of 54,589.

The Hong Kong Eastern officials were accompanied by EASL CEO Henry Kerins and EASL Philippine head Banjo Albano.

Crossovers, Chameleons clash for Pool

CHERY Tiggo and Nxled aim for their second straight wins as they clash for the early Pool A lead in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference today (Saturday) at the Philsports Arena in Pasig even as PLDT looks to join the top ranks against Galeries Tower. While the Chameleons had to overcome a tough Highrisers side in the opening match of the mid-season conference, the Crossovers demonstrated their title ambitions with a decisive straight-set victory over the Farm Fresh Foxies last Tuesday. Despite missing two key players due to their commitment to Alas Pilipinas, Chery Tiggo’s depth was evident as they overpowered the Foxies.

But Nxled coach Cheng Gang is expected to make the necessary adjustments to prepare his team for the challenge posed by Chery Tiggo in the 2 p.m. encounter of another actionpacked triple-header in this novel twopool tournament, which begins with a single round-robin format.

The top three teams from Pool A will face the bottom three from Pool B in Pool C, while the top three squads from Pool B will compete against the lower-ranked teams of Pool A in Pool D. After the prelims, teams will be ranked using the FIVB Classification System, with the top eight squads advancing to the knockout quarterfinals. Winners will proceed to the semifinals, which will also be do-or-die matches. The top two teams from the semis will compete for the gold medal, while the losers will battle for the bronze.

Chua said he will brief the PBA Board on what was discussed while Marcial tapped PBA deputy commissioner Eric Castro to join a task force with Wong, Lee and Albano to iron out details of an agreement.

Wong said Hong Kong Eastern plays with a single import of unlimited height and the PBA is likely to adapt a similar rule for the Commissioner’s Cup.

Marcial said critical in the negotia-

tions is the logistics of scheduling.

The PBA’s first conference, the Governors’ Cup, is set to begin on Aug. 18 and scheduled to end on Nov. 10 at the latest.

The PBA will then give way to the FIBA Asia Cup qualifying window on Nov. 18-26 when Gilas plays New Zealand on Nov. 21 and Hong Kong on Nov. 24, both at home. The second conference, the Com-

missioner’s Cup, will start late November or early December and end before the next FIBA Asia Cup qualifying window where Gilas will play ChineseTaipei on Feb. 20 and New Zealand on Feb. 23, both on the road.

If the PBA collaboration pushes through, Hong Kong Eastern plans to play six home games at the new Kai Tak Sports Park and six road games in Manila during the eliminations.

Lascuña overcomes obstacles to win PGT title

LAUREL, Batangas—In yet another impressive show of lasting talent and resolve, Tony Lascuña has once again demonstrated his ability to overcome any challenge, be it fierce competition from younger rivals or some of the harshest conditions in Philippine Golf Tour history.

Six months after outplaying competitors half his age at The Country Club Invitational, Lascuña is at it again. He defied both his age and the severe, cold conditions to capture the ICTSI Splendido Taal Championship by one stroke over a late-charging Keanu Jahns.

Despite facing tough and demanding challenges, Lascuña showcased his exceptional skill, finishing with a brilliant chip shot for a tap-in par on the 72nd hole, securing him a 71 and a 13-under 275 total and thwarting Jahns’ hopes of forcing a playoff.

The Fil-German had earlier staged a fiery comeback from five strokes down with a solid 67 in a flight ahead of the championship group, assembling a four-day total of 12-under 276 while aiming to force a sudden death with a potential Lascuña mishap on the final hole as erstwhile contender Lloyd Go hobbled in the closing holes and faded. But Lascuña had other things in mind. Coming short of the par-4 18th, Lascuña twice tracked down the line to the hole, then confidently chipped to within two feet. As soon as he drained the putt, he pumped the air with fullfisted glee, underscoring the 53-yearold veteran’s superiority. His ability to rise above adversity and secure another victory stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to the sport.

“Piniga ko talaga ‘yung chip shot at putt. I knew I needed a par to win,” said Lascuña, whose victory, worth P360,000, transformed a challenging week of golf at one of the country’s toughest courses into an inspiring win. It ended a series of Top 5 finishes in the first half of the 10-leg PGT season and highlighted the enduring success of his golf career.

After securing his second TCC Invitational crown last January, Lascuña faced challenges in his quest for a PGT trophy this year. He tied for third at Apo, where Jhonnel Ababa emerged victorious, finished tied for 10th at Palos Verdes, won by Go, and shared fifth place at Caliraya Springs, which he had won the previous year but was dominated by Clyde Mondilla last April. Additionally, he placed joint third in the Philippine Masters and finished solo third at the Lakewood Championship.

SMB, Meralco to represent PH in EASL 2024-25 season

HONG KONG SAR—The San Miguel Beermen and the Meralco Bolts will represent the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) in the East Asia Super League (EASL) 2024-25 Season.

The Beermen and the Bolts were selected to compete in EASL based on their performances during the 2023-24 PBA season. The San Miguel Beermen are the 2023-24 Commissioner’s Cup champions and also finished runners-up in the Philippine Cup. The Meralco Bolts are the 2023-24 Philippine Cup champions.

The San Miguel Beermen have been placed into Group A for the Group Stage, where they are scheduled to face Japan B.LEAGUE champions the Hiroshima Dragonflies, Korean Basketball

League (KBL) runners-up the Suwon KT Sonicboom, and P. LEAGUE+ runners-up the Taoyuan Pauian Pilots.

The Meralco Bolts have been placed into Group B, where they are slated to match up against Japan B.LEAGUE runners-up the Ryukyu Golden Kings, KBL champions the Busan KCC Egis, and P. LEAGUE+ champions the New Taipei Kings.

The draw for the EASL 2024-25 Season Group Stage was made earlier this year in agreement with the participating leagues.

Commenting on the qualification of the Beermen and the Bolts, PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial said, “The PBA is excited to

send two of its champion teams to compete in EASL. The San Miguel Beermen and the Meralco Bolts showed their strength last season by winning the Commissioner’s Cup and Philippine Cup, respectively. They will represent Filipino basketball with pride and we hope that one of them will be crowned the champion of East Asia next season.”

EASL CEO Henry Kerins said, “Filipino teams and fans bring great competitiveness and passion to EASL and we are delighted to confirm the participation of the San Miguel Beermen and the Meralco Bolts next season. We expect them to compete strongly for the championship, against the best teams from the rest of East Asia.”

Eala marches to singles, doubles quarterfinals

By Peter Atencio

ALEX Eala advanced to the next round of the women’s singles and doubles of the ITF W100 VitoriaGasteiz in Spain.

The 19-year-old Eala first fought back from leads posted by hometown bet Lucia Cortez Llorca to prevail, 7-5, 7-5, on Thursday in the second round of the singles.

Two hours later, she and French partner Estelle Cascino reached the semifinals of the doubles after they took in just 59 minutes to get past Victoria Bervid of the Czech Republic and Laura Mair of Italy, 6-4, 6-1.

It was Eala’s second win over the 24-year-old Llorca, whom she also faced last year in this same tournament.

The world 385th-ranked CortezLlorca quickly took a 4-1 lead in the opening set, and went on to grab a 5-2 lead.

Eala awakened and swept the next five games to win, 7-5, and gain a one-set advantage.

Cortez-Llorca built a 4-1 lead in the second set, winning on a service break in the second game, before the fifth-seeded Eala rallied again to win their two-hour and seven-minute battle.

Eala, now at a career-high 155th ranking in the world, is in the quarterfinals, where she is set to face fourth seed Yuliia Starodubtseva of Ukraine.

Starodubtseva is also at a careerbest world ranking of 123.

Meanwhile, the third-seeded Eala and Cascino will meet unseeded pair of Maria Jose Portillo Ramirez of Mexico and Noelia Zeballos Melgar of Bolivia.

Ramirez and Melgar upset second seeds Starodubtseva and Rutuja Bhosale of India in the quarterfinals, 6-4, 6-4.

Tony Lascuña raises his ICTSI

Splendido Taal Championship trophy. Manny Marcelo

PBA Ginebra Board Governor Alfrancis Chua and Hong Kong Eastern Chairman Frankie Yau seal their friendship with a handshake during preliminary talks of a possible collaboration. Shown here are (from left) Hong Kong Eastern Sporting Director Tony Wong, PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, Chua, Yau, EASL CEO Henry Kerins, EASL Philippine head Banjo Albano, sports broadcaster/columnist Quinito Henson and Hong Kong Eastern basketball team manager Oliver Lee.

Alex Eala

$1.44 billion

BOP surplus in first half of 2024

$2.3 billion

exercise was conducted on-site at the company’s premises, marking a significant milestone and enhancing the precision and transparency of the evaluation process.

BOP posted $1.4b in first half; GIR surpassed $105b

By Ralph Harvey Rirao

THE Philippines posted a balance of payment (BOP) surplus of $1.44 billion in the first half of 2024, despite the deficit incurred in June, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said Friday.

$105.2 billion

BOP surplus in first half of 2023 GIR as of end-June 2024

Lotilla denies favoring coal over RE sources

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ENERGY Secretary Raphael Lotilla on Friday denied that the Department of Energy (DOE) is favoring coal over renewable energy in power generation.

“Diversification of energy sources is critical to energy security. Unfortunately, we get pilloried for favoring solar and wind over coal and get charged for favoring coal over renewable energy. This leaves us with a reassuring feeling that we are getting the damn thing right,” Lotilla said.

Meanwhile, the DOE’s Electric Power Industry Management Bureau (Power Bureau) said the coal moratorium policy issued in December 2020 is not a total ban.

The Power Bureau said the policy does not cover existing and operational coal-fired power generation facilities as well as any coal-fired power projects considered committed power projects. It also excludes existing power plant complexes which already have firm expansion plans and existing land site provisions; and indicative power projects with substantial accomplishments, particularly with signed and notarized land acquisition or lease agreement and with approved permits or resolution from local government units and the Regional Development Council, it said.

The bureau said the parameters are explicitly provided under item 2 of the coal moratorium policy. It said that after a thorough review and verification, the DOE issues at the request of a project proponent a certification that a project is not covered by the moratorium.

Several proponents of coalfired power projects requested the DOE’s confirmation on non-coverage and these were ministerially issued after verification, it said.

“The Power Bureau described allegations of arbitrariness in the issuance of certifications as unfounded,” it said.

Data from the BSP show that the June deficit was lower than the $606-million BOP gap recorded in the same month last year. In May, the country achieved a $2-billion surplus, the biggest this year.

BOP refers to the amount of money coming in and out of the country and reflects the country’s external strength. It affects the foreign exchange rate as well as the gross international reserves.

“The BOP deficit in June 2024

reflected outflows arising mainly from the national government’s payments of its foreign currency debt obligations,” the BSP said in a statement.

It said that despite deficit in June, the cumulative BOP position registered a surplus of $1.4 billion from January to June, lower than the $2.3-billion surplus recorded in the same period last year.

“Based on preliminary data, this cumulative BOP surplus reflected

mainly the narrowing trade in goods deficit alongside the continued net inflows from personal remittances, trade in services, net foreign direct investments, net foreign borrowings by the NG and net foreign portfolio investments,” the BSP said. The BSP said the trade deficit from January to May reached $20.6 billion, down from the $23.7-billion deficit posted in the same period last year.

The BOP surplus position enabled the BSP to accumulated more foreign reserves as a buffer against external volatilities.

The BSP said the gross international reserves (GIR) climbed to $105.2 billion as of end-June 2024 from $105.0 billion as of end-May. The level also went up from $99.4 billion as of end-June 2023.

Taiheyo opens P12.8-b cement plant in Cebu

By Othel V. Campos

TAIHEIYO Cement Philippines Inc. (TCPI) inaugurated its P12.8-billion production line in San Fernando, Cebu. The state-of-the-art facility is expected to significantly boost domestic cement production, reducing the Philippines’ reliance on imports and supporting the government’s “Build Better More” infrastructure program.

“Taiheiyo’s new plant in San Fernando, Cebu will bolster the Philippines’ cement production by 3 million tons annually, reducing our reliance on imports. This investment aligns perfectly with our government’s ‘Build Better More’ infrastructure program,” said Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual who attended the inauguration ceremony.

The facility, with an annual production capacity of 3 million tons, features advanced kiln renewal technology that reduces carbon dioxide emissions by at least 10 percent through decreased energy consumption and a lower clinker factor.

Beyond the new production line, Taiheiyo Cement invested P8.2 billion in related projects, including a jetty and marine belt conveyor, port area upgrades and a distribution terminal in Luzon.

THE combined assets of savings banks in the Philippines topped the P1-trillion market for the first time in 2023.

The Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB) said the total assets of its members surged 7.3 percent to P1.04 trillion as of Dec. 31, 2023 from P968.28 billion in 2022.

The core lending experience also expanded 16.3 percent to P677.6 billion, reflecting the sustained lending activity within the sector’s niches.

Meanwhile, confidence in the sector remained high, with deposits

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Trade and Industry

(DTI) issued an order Friday suspending the sale of vape products, including devices and e-liquids, on all online platforms across the Philippines.

DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual said the government intends to address the growing concerns about the accessibility of vape products to minors and ensure that the government receives its rightful share of tax revenue from the sales.

“There are many requirements for e-market platforms. We want to make it clear that e-market platforms must adhere to strict regulations before allowing vape sellers to utilize their platforms. We want them to show us they

growing 6.5 percent year-on-year to P789.3 billion as of end-2023.

The total capital of thrift banks reached P157 billion, showing a 10-percent increase from a year earlier and ensuring a capital adequacy ratio of 16.98 percent, above the required minimum of 10 percent.

CTB president Cecilio San Pedro said the non-performing loan ratio of the thrift or savings banks remained manageable at 6.4 percent, underscoring the sector’s prudent risk management practices.

San Pedro also highlighted the

are compliant,” Pascual said, underscoring the importance of robust age verification measures.

The DTI’s primary concern lies in the difficulty of verifying the age of online buyers, making it imperative to establish effective mechanisms to prevent minors from purchasing vape products, he said.

“The sale of regulated products is prohibited in online platforms unless they provide us [with a] copy of their registration, licenses and permits, and they have a contract with the operator of the emarketplace and online merchant regarding the selling restrictions, conditions when selling vape,” said DTI assistant secretary for consumer protection group (CPG) Amanda Nograles.

adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and its significance for the digitization of banks.

“AI enables thrift banks to revolutionize customer service by tailoring products and services to individual needs and automating processes,” he said.

San Pedro said AI holds the promise of unlocking valuable insights from vast amounts of data, empowering thrift banks to make informed decisions, anticipate market trends and mitigate risk effectively.

Ralph Harvey Rirao

The DTI said Japan is the Philippines’ second-largest trading partner and third-largest source of foreign investments.

Pascual said the government remains focused on creating a conducive investment environment and enhancing the ease of doing business to sustain the country’s robust economic growth.

“To sustain this momentum, our country is committed to improving our business environment by enhancing the ease of doing business. We are streamlining and digitalizing institutional and regulatory requirements to improve speed and overall ease of doing business, especially for strategic investments,” Pascual said.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual and executives of Taiheyo Cement Philippines lead the inauguration of the company’s new P12.8-billion production line on July 18, 2024. The plant is expected to bolster cement production in the Philippines and reduce reliance on imports.

Market rises on stable peso, index nears 6,800 level

PHILIPPINE stocks closed this week’s trading in the green, closing slightly below the 6,800 level on the back of the recent peso appreciation against the US dollar.

The Philippine Stock Exchange index, the country’s main composite index, surged 86.68 points, or 1.29 percent, to close at 6,791.69, while the broader all shares index rose 24.97, points or 0.69 percent, to finish at 3,627.83.

Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said market sentiment was driven by stronger peso and optimistic economic prospects. The peso closed at 58.33 against the greenback Friday.

“The Asian Development Bank’s forecast of strong economic growth for the Philippines and Vietnam in 2024 and 2025 further boosted investor confidence,” Limlingan said. Foreign buying, which reached P1.44 billion, also helped the market close strongly. Value turnover improved to P5.86 billion with 96 advancers, 75 decliners and 65 stocks unchanged.

Among the sub-indices, only the mining and oil ended in the red, declining by 1.2 percent. Financial jumped 2.53 percent, followed by property which rose by 1.4 percent and services by 0.96 percent.

Meanwhile, Asian equities sank Friday as hopes for US interest rate cuts were offset by uncertainty over the US presidential election and worries about China’s economy, while technical disruptions delayed London’s open as a widespread outage hit global computer systems.

Investors were already on edge after a report said the White House was considering a crackdown on firms supplying chip technology to Beijing, and following Donald Trump’s call for Taiwan to pay Washington for help defending itself against China.

Markets have been enjoying a healthy run-up as Federal Reserve officials have lined up in recent days to suggest they are ready to begin reducing rates.

Data Thursday provided fresh room for the central bank to act, with initial jobless claims rising more than expected last week.

However, the tech sector -- which has led the surge in stocks this year -- has taken a hefty hit after the report of the warning from the White House over supplying China and Trump’s remarks about Taiwan, home to some of the world’s biggest chip producers.

B. Austria with AFP

Jenniffer

Maynilad

converts sludge lagoons at La Mesa compound

By Othel V. Campos

MAYNILAD Water Services Inc.

(Maynilad) said it is spending P686 million to enhance its water infrastructure by repurposing sludge lagoons at its La Mesa Compound in Quezon City.

Maynilad Water supply operations head Ronaldo Padua said the activity would involve converting four lagoons into a 200-million-liter raw water reservoir.

“Since our La Mesa Treatment Plant rehabilitation program already included the construction of new sludge treatment facilities, the existing sludge lagoons could be put to better use as a storage site for raw water. By repurposing the lagoons, we can maximize the value of the site and help address our need for increased water storage,” he said.

Slated for completion in the fourth quarter of 2025, the reservoir will be the company’s first dedicated raw water storage. The company can better manage periods of reduced inflows from the Angat-Ipo Dam system, a critical water source for Metro Manila and surrounding areas by increasing the storage capacity for raw water, it said.

The reservoir will also act as a settlement basin, allowing particles to settle before treatment, improving water quality, particularly during the rainy season when high turbidity is often experienced.

The project is part of Maynilad’s broader commitment to ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for its customers in the west zone of Metro Manila and Cavite.

BPI prices sustainability bonds at 6.2% annually

By Jenniffer B. Austria

Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) pegged the interest rate for its 1.5-year peso-denominated fixed-rate bonds at 6.2 percent per annum.

BPI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Friday the bond offering, which has a principal amount of P5 billion and an option to upsize, would be issued under its sustainable, environmental and equitable development bonds (BPI SEED) program. Applications to purchase the BPI SEED bonds will require a minimum

investment of P500,000 and additional increments of P100,000.

The bank said it would use the net proceeds to finance or refinance new or existing eligible green and/or social projects as defined under BPI’s Sustainable Funding Framework1.

Offer period will begin on July 19, 2024 and end on Aug. 2, 2024.

BPI will issue and list the bonds with the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. on Aug. 9, 2024.

“BPI is committed to creating value not only for its businesses, but also for its stakeholders, the environment, and the communities in which it operates. It strives to have sustainability at the core of its corporate strategies, ultimately balancing its growth aspirations with its environmental and social responsibility,” the bank said.

BPI said the Securities and Exchange Commission confirmed that the planned bond offering qualify as ASEAN sustainability bonds.

PXP

Bonds carrying the classification have been independently verified to have systems in place to ensure that proceeds raised will be directed toward projects that benefit society.

This gives bondholders confidence that their investments will be used to make a positive environmental and social impact.

The bank hired BPI Capital Corp. and Standard Chartered Bank as the joint lead arrangers and selling agents of the offer.

BPI and the joint lead arrangers have the right to amend the terms and the timing of the issuance with prior notice.

BUILDING RETROFITTING.

Energy gets DOE approval to quit SC 74 drilling in Palawan

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy approved the relinquishment by the contractors of Service Contract 74 in northwest Palawan led by operator PXP Energy Corp. over alleged lack of “drillable prospects.”

PXP Energy said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange Friday it received a letter from the DOE approving the relinquishment of SC 74 which covers an area of about 4,268 square kilometers.

“The DOE has approved the surrender of SC 74 of which PXP has an op-

erating interest of 70 percent. This will not have a material impact on PXP’s 2024 financial statements,” it said.

The other members of the SC 74 consortium are the Philodrill Corp. with 25 percent and state-owned PNOC Exploration Corp. with 5 percent.

PXP sent a letter to the DOE in December 2023 that “no drillable prospects have been identified in the contract area,” leading the consortium to “decide to surrender the service contract.”

Meanwhile, the Philodrill Corp. also disclosed the DOE decision and assured it would comply with the

SHARING. Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. (fourth from right) signs partnership agreements with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) ON July 17, 2024. The memorandum of agreement (MOA) and the data sharing agreement (DSA) signed by the BIR and the SEC will facilitate a more streamlined information exchange between the agencies.

Newport turns over mobile laboratory to Caloocan under LAB for All program

NEWPORT World Resorts, with the support of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR), heeded the call to help deliver free medical services and medicines closer to Filipinos in need through a donation of a fully functional mobile laboratory to the city government of Caloocan.

The donation was made in support of the Office of the First Lady’s project dubbed “LAB for ALL”, which aims to provide free laboratory services, consultations with specialists and medicines for the Filipino community at large.

Newport World Resorts president and chief executive Nilo Rodriguez noted the importance of collaboration

towards nation building.

“Through meaningful partnerships with the government, we are able to bring this commitment to fruition. We hope this Mobile Laboratory reaches those in need, contributing to the betterment of Filipino lives within the community,” he said.

The mobile laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art medical services equipment. To provide prompt and accessible healthcare to the community, the LAB for ALL unit donated by the multifaceted integrated resort includes a fully-equipped x-ray room, a functional laboratory set up for basic tests, an examination room, portable ultrasound machine and ECG machine.

agency’s directives. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla informed the consortium that based on the DOE’s review and evaluation, the contractors had complied with their reportorial obligations. Lotilla said there remains an outstanding scholarship commitment under the DOE’s Energy Iskolar ng Bayan Program and the agency is currently finalizing the renewal of its memorandum of agreement with Palawan State University, the intended beneficiary of scholarship commitment under SC 74.

“In view thereof, the DOE hereby approves the contractor’s relinquishment of SC No. 74, subject to the settlement of the remaining scholarship commitment in the amount of $55,000.00. The contractors are directed to abandon the contract area and restore all sites that may have been affected by any petroleum operations,” Lotilla said.

DOE Energy Resource Development Bureau director Nonito Jariel said PXP Energy’s action “is their decision, and they are the right party to comment.”

Globe reports big drop in bank text scams on anti-fraud measures

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GLOBE Telecom said Friday it post-

ed a significant drop in bank-related spam and scam text messages because of its rigorous anti-fraud measures and strategic collaborations with major financial institutions.

Globe said it blocked 2.74 million bank-related spam and scam messages from January to June 2024, marking a 43.56 percent year-on-year decline from the 4,855,199 messages blocked in the same period of 2023. This underscores the effectiveness of Globe’s proactive strategies and robust partnerships with the country’s major banks and financial institutions. The improvement follows Globe’s anti-fraud agreements with the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP), encompassing 45 major

banks, and various individual players in the finance sector. These collaborations have enabled vigorous and timely data and intelligence-sharing, aligning efforts to prevent and investigate fraud more effectively.

“Our collective efforts with the banking sector have significantly strengthened our fight against spam and scam SMS targeting depositors. By working together and sharing critical intelligence, combined with our enhanced detection and blocking systems, we can now better protect our customers from illegal activities,” Globe chief information security officer and chief AI officer Anton Bonifacio said.

Globe allocated about $20 million to enhance its spam and scam SMS detection and blocking systems to prevent fraudulent messages from reaching consumers,

BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) manages its greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption by retrofitting its old buildings, beginning with its historic DasmariñasBinondo building in Manila. The effort, designed to boost energy efficiency, has not only yielded substantial cost savings but also stands as a compelling illustration of the advantages that retrofitting older buildings can bring to both businesses and homeowners, according to the bank.

DATA

DIGITAL UPSKILLING. Persons with disabilities in San Miguel, Bulacan reap the benefits of PLDT Inc.’s and Smart Communication’s digital training, expanding their livelihood opportunities. PLDT and Smart, together with ATRIEV and supported by NORFIL Foundation, and Voice Philippines, in collaboration with the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) of San Miguel upskilled local entrepreneurs who have disabilities or those who care for persons with disabilities.

BUSINESS

Research points to declining power rates in PH until 2030

By Alena Mae S. Flores

ASTUDY by Aurora Energy Research forecasts lower electricity spot market prices starting this year until 2030 with the entry of more power plants and the shift to renewable energy.

This forecast is part of Aurora’s presentation to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) in a recent forum.

“Aurora also forecasts that, between 2024 and 2030, WESM prices are expected to slightly come down given the new capacity entry while the exposure to international gas pric-

Vista Real Classica homeowners await final SC decision

HOMEOWNERS of Quezon City’s Vista Real Classica subdivision are awaiting the Supreme Court’s final decision on the ownership of controversial lots sold by Sta. Lucia Land Inc. The lots are also being claimed by 8990 Housing Development Corp.

Home builder 8990 Housing on Feb. 27, 2024 filed a motion for partial reconsideration of the high court’s 2023 ruling that declared Sta. Lucia the rightful owner of Lot 116-D under TCT No. RT-39100 (144532). The lot is comprised of the 19 disputed parcels within Vista Real Classica.

Sta. Lucia, the developer of Vista Real Classica, received a favorable decision from the Supreme Court’s Second Division on April 17, 2023. The court declared Sta. Lucia the rightful owner of the contested lots.

The case stemmed from a lawsuit filed by Evangeline Puzon against Sta. Lucia over ownership of the lots. Puzon, now represented by 8990, won the case at the Quezon City Regional Trial Court and the Court of Appeals.

Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 104 records show Sta. Lucia Realty sold subdivided lots to 19 homeowners in Vista Real. In a 2022 decision, Judge Catherine Manodon said Sta. Lucia’s lot titles were questionable and could not transfer ownership rights.

The court said the lot being claimed by Sta. Lucia and its partner Garsons Co. belonged to Puzon. The lot was developed as part of Vista Real Classica Phase III-A and was subdivided and sold to homeowners by Sta. Lucia.

The Supreme Court, however, reversed the lower courts’ decisions.

In its April 2023 ruling, the Second Division said the Court of Appeals erred in awarding possession to Puzon because evidence strongly favored Sta. Lucia’s ownership of Lot 116-D.

“The petition for review on certiorari filed by Sta. Lucia Realty and Development is granted. The decision dated April 30, 2019 and the resolution dated November 27, 2019 of the Court of Appeals in DA-GR CV No. 107601 are reversed and set aside.

A new judgement is hereby rendered declaring Sta. Lucia Realty and Development Inc. to have a better right of possession over Lot 116D covered by TCT No. RT-39100 (144532) as against Evangeline Puzon, substituted by 8990 Housing Development.

Accordingly, the amended complaint for accion reivindicatoria filed by Evangeline Puzon is dismissed for lack of merit,” the SC Second Division said in its ruling.

BIR

es will drive the upward trend in the prices,” the ERC said.

“As the Philippines shifts to a renewable- intensive system, Aurora likewise predicts that midday electricity prices will decrease, driven by high volumes of cheaply-offered solar energy in the Philippines,” it said.

The ERC gathered energy policy experts, government agencies, distribution utilities, consumer groups and private power associations in a forum to provide regulatory updates and insights on the current frameworks on power supply agreements (PSAs) and the conduct of competitive selection process (CSP) or bidding.

The forum, organized in collaboration with Aurora, TransitionZero and ClientEarth, presented the study entitled “Insights into Philippine Power Supply Agreements” and the preliminary study of TransitionZero analyzing the CSP, which identified gaps and opportunities for improving the

process. A draft of the toolkit for the CSP being developed by ERC with the assistance of ClientEarth was also presented.

The ERC cited the analysis of Aurora that the Philippines is projected to undergo a significant transformation towards renewable energy dominance by 2050, with over 60 percent of its electricity sourced from renewables.

Solar energy is slated to be the main technology driving the transition from 2024 to 2030 as it is the focus of Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP) auctions.

Tag Media opens Petron Gasul franchise in Laguna

By Roy Tomandao

TAG Media Group, a company that operates and manages various businesses, has opened Fino Gas, a Petron Gasul franchise, in Calauan, Laguna.

The venture began when entrepreneur Andrew Troy Nicolas faced difficulty finding a reliable supplier of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). After searching the community and failing to find a satisfactory option, Nicolas decided to take matters into his own hands.

Nicolas discussed the idea with his mother-in-law, who has 40 years of experience as a retailer. Inspired by her background, they aimed to establish a new business that would better serve the Calauan community.

Fino Gas will manage eight retailers in Calauan and extend its services to commercial establishments in nearby municipalities and cities.

Petron Gasul is the Philippines’ leading LPG brand. Since the 1960s, it has been an innovator in the LPG industry, offering the first bottled LPG. The company’s clean-burning

LPG, a mixture of propane and butane gas, is used for cooking, lighting and industrial applications.

“Trusted by millions of Filipino households, Petron Gasul’s LPG tanks feature a laser-printed seal to ensure they are leak-free, tamperevident, and contain the exact weight,” the company said in a statement.

“Petron Gasul cylinders are manufactured to meet stringent safety standards, including wall thickness, weld integrity, and valve fitting,” it said.

Fino Gas said it is committed to supporting the Calauan community.

confiscates ethyl alcohol from Quezon City warehouses

BUREAU of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said Friday the agency confiscated ethyl alcohol products with an estimate unpaid excise taxes above P700 million from two Quezon City establishments. The BIR raided two warehouses in the morning of July 19, 2024 in Balintawak, Quezon City. “The P700 million lost in public funds due to the smuggling or non-payment of excise taxes for 390,000 liters of ethyl alcohol, could have been used by the government for its social welfare or

infrastructure programs,” Lumagui said.

“Tax evaders and smugglers rob the Filipino people of a better future. The BIR commits to stopping these criminals. Expect criminal cases to be filed” he said. A tipster and covert surveillance of movement of company vehicles led the BIR to the location of the warehouses and its contents.

The BIR said it welcomes all informants who could help provide targets for the different enforcement teams of the agency, including that of excisable articles.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

the CAB said.

The CAB said airline fuel surcharge is an optional fee imposed and collected by airlines to recover fuel costs and stem losses caused by upward spikes in fuel cost. It said fuel surcharge is not a part of the basic airfare and may be reduced or removed depending on the price of jet fuel in the market.

According to the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Jet Fuel price Monitor, the average jet fuel prices reached $103.50 per barrel as of July 12 this year, up 3 percent from the previous month but lower by 7.8 percent from a year ago.

be informed that the Annual Stockholders’ Meeting of the Educational Resources Corporation (ERC), shall be held on July 27,2024 Saturday, at 12:00 noon at Cafe Cucina Marco Polo Hotel, Ortigas Center, Meralco Avenue, Sapphire Rd., San Antonio Pasig City.

Please

Gasul in

Laguna. Joining the event are

left) Andrew Nicolas, Grace Bondad Nicolas, Jay Gamboa and Abram Ponce. Roy Tomandao

SATURDAY, JULY 20,

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

BSP approves two lenders ‘ Islamic banking services

By Ralph Harvey Rirao

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas

(BSP) approved the application of two lenders to provide Islamic banking services in the Philippines.

BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi

Fonacier said in an interview the BSP approved the application of the two banks, including Maybank Philippines.

Fonacier said these banks would not be full Islamic banks, but would have Islamic banking window.

“When you say Islamic banking window, it could be a dedicated branch offering Islamic banking products and services,” Fonacier

said.

The BSP has yet to identify the other bank.

Fonacier said the Islamic banking services of the two lenders were expected to be operational soon.

“Those two have been licensed, and I think they’ll soon be starting their operations,” Fonacier said.

Two Islamic banks are already operating in the county including CARD Bank Inc. and Amanah Islamic Bank.

Amanah Islamic Bank, a universal bank that became a subsidiary of Development Bank of the Philippines in 2008, is the first Islamic bank in the country established under Presidential Decree 264.

PDEx keeps P400-b bond listing target

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. (PDEx) is maintaining its P400-billion corporate bond listing target this year as more companies are expected to tap the debt market on anticipation of lower interest rates in the second half of 2024.

PDEx president and chief executive Antonino Nakpil said in an interview at the sidelines of Ayala Land Inc.’s P6-billion bond listing Thursday that several banks would issue bonds in the second half of the year.

“We thought we would be adjusting

our target by the middle of the year because the first half was weak. But we are maintaining our target,” Nakpil said.

“There are a lot that are starting to line up,” Nakpil said.

He said companies waiting for interest rates to come down began pre-

paring to take action on positive market signals.

Corporate bond listings reached P183 billion so far this year.

Among the companies that announced plans to issue bonds in the second half are BDO Unibank Inc., which reportedly raised more than P50 billion from the issuance of ASEAN sustainability bonds and Bank of the Philippine Islands which is also in the process of raising at least P5 billion from the issuance of 1.5-year sustainability bonds.

Nakpil said, however, these banks are issuing short tenor bonds as they were still expecting bigger rate cuts.

He expects other large companies to issue three-, five- and seven-year fixed-rate bonds to support their bigticket expansion plans.

Domestic corporate bond market issuances reached P209.33 billion in 2023, down 58.8 percent from the record P508.66 billion in 2022 due to macroeconomic environment.

Among the companies that listed bonds in the first half of the year were BDO (P63 billion), SM Prime Holdings Inc. (P25 billion), Filinvest Development Corp. (P10 billion), Bank of Commerce (P6.5 billion) and Development Bank of the Philippines (P8.75 billion).

Artificial intelligence seen shaping future of PH thrift banks

THE Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB) underscored the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of banking.

The group tackled the challenges and opportunities of digitalization during their 50th anniversary celebration on July 19, 2024.

It said the group achieved several digital milestones through collaborations with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) including the implementation of the Financial Consumer Protection Act of 2022, Anti-Money Laundering Act updates and BSP initiatives on banks digital transformation and cybersecurity.

The CTB said the integration of AI is at the forefront of the continued success of thrift banks in their transformation to digitalization.

“Investing in digital transformation is paramount for thrift banks to remain competitive in the evolving banking landscape,” CTB convention committee chairman Jerome Minglana said.

cial

SSS taps Antique cooperatives for members’ contributions, loan payments

THE Social Security System (SSS) said more than 8,000 SSS members can now pay their monthly contributions through their respective cooperatives after it signed partnership deals with two additional cooperatives in Antique province.

SSS president and chief executive Rolando Ledesma Macasaet said the SSS signed an agreement with Belison and Hamtic Multi-Purpose Cooperatives (MPC) on July 9, 2024 that would allow them to accept contribution payments and facilitate the online transactions of their members who are also SSS members.

Under the SSS accreditation program for cooperatives, Macasaet said that authorized cooperatives could collect and remit the SSS and employees’ compensation (EC) contributions, adding that “their members can also pay their monthly loan amortizations through this arrangement.”

“Establishing durable partnerships with cooperatives is crucial in securing the active SSS membership of our members as well as in fulfilling member-borrowers’ responsibility to pay their monthly amortizations regularly,” Macasaet said.

Schneider unveils decarbonization

plan

SCHNEIDER Electric, a global leader in energy management and digital automation, announced a

Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Climate Change Commission (CCC) Philippines, and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

Dr. Song Pei Chua, business development manager for chemicals at Schneider Electric East Asia, discussed the decarbonization roadmap for the Philippine manufacturing sector.

“Our approach to decarbonization involves not just transforming our energy supply but also optimizing our processes through electrification,” said Chua.

“Strategic planning, digitization, and a steadfast commitment to efficiency and sustainability are at the core of manufacturing and industrial operations,” said Chua.

Ayala Malls commit to protect data privacy

AYALA Malls said it reinforced its dedication to customer data privacy, enhancing its measures to ensure a secure shopping environment across all its properties.

“With increasing attention to data protection, this initiative aligns with the National Privacy Commission regulations and underscores Ayala Malls’ commitment to protecting personal information collected during transactions,” it said in a statement.

Ayala Malls said it ensures its data security practices are in strict adherence to NPC regulations and guidelines. These practices include regular data security audits, transparent data handling processes and comprehensive employee training programs.

“In providing such assistance to its members, the cooperatives may claim a service fee of P6 from SSS for every processed and approved transaction,” Macasaet said.

He said more than 2,000 co-op members who do not have SSS membership would be registered as SSS members as part of the agreement.

Aside from being SSS collection partners, they are also authorized to facilitate selected SSS transactions such as membership and My.SSS registrations, disbursement account enrollment and online submission of benefit and loan applications.

PhilHealth teams up with DICT to transfer legacy systems into new digital platform

THE state-run Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) said it is introducing another innovation in the field of digital transformation system through its new ePhilHealth platform that would make services truly accessible and within reach by as many Filipinos as possible.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and PhilHealth co-developed and launched ePhilHealth platform—an integration platform that plays a crucial role in PhilHealth’s digital transformation to support the streamlining of government processes.

This aims to gradually move all PhilHealth legacy systems into new and secure systems through the establishment of a national health data

repository (NHDR) and integration with the DICT’s eGovernment data exchange platform (eGovDX).

New features such as members profiles, beneficiaries, contributions, claims history and eKonsulta registration were successfully launched to allow members to enjoy PhilHealth services at ease, even from the comfort of their homes.

“Digitalization plays an important role in efficient government service delivery for our members. I assure everyone that PhilHealth will continuously enhance, update, and expand its digital solutions and innovations for the benefit of our members who are increasingly getting digital,” PhilHealth president and chief executive Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. said.

Ayala Malls said it works with its merchant partners and tenants to ensure that all establishments within its malls comply with NPC data privacy standards.

“Looking ahead, Ayala Malls remains vigilant in efforts to protect its customers and supports the NPC’s efforts to promote awareness of the importance of data privacy practices,” it said.

Consumer group warns vs. illegal vapes

CONSUMER protection and good governance

MB MEMBER. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli Remolona Jr. (left) welcomes Walter Wassmer as the new Monetary Board member at the BSP head office in Manila on July 18, 2024.

SATURDAY, JULY 20, 2024 rumallari@thestandard.com.ph rieramallari@yahoo.com

ON AI Appreciation Day, Coursera (NYSE: COUR), a leading online learning platform, has announced several new initiatives aimed at empowering individuals and institutions with mission-critical GenAI skills, equipping them to harness the transformative power of AI technology.

These initiatives include new GenAI-focused content and credentials, enhancements to the existing Professional Certificate portfolio with GenAI-specific updates, upgrades to Coursera Coach, and an expansion of the GenAI Academy to help businesses equip their teams with GenAI skills.

A recent AWS report by AWS revealed that ASEAN employers are willing to pay 36% more for workers with AI skills. These new launches aim to address the growing demand for GenAI skills globally, and in the Philippines. So far, there have been over 2 million enrollments globally on Coursera of which 13,000 are from the Philippines (642% YoY increase).

“The soaring demand for GenAI courses by Filipino learners on Coursera underscores their resilience and forward-thinking spirit needed to thrive in a world driven by rapid technological shifts,” said Raghav Gupta, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Coursera. “On this AI Appreciation Day, we are thrilled to enhance our offerings of missioncritical GenAI skills through trusted brands and credentials, turning it into an engine of opportunity for everyone. By embracing AI-enhanced learning and developing an AI-skilled talent pool, the Philippines can harness GenAI’s potential to empower every citizen and drive significant economic growth.”

The new initiatives Coursera announced today include: 7 new GenAI courses, Specializations, and certificates from top partners

Generative AI for Software Development Skills Certificate from DeepLearning.AI —Designed for software developers and engineers at all stages in their careers, this program will explore how large language models (LLMs) work, their architecture, and their applications in various coding tasks.

Programming with Generative AI course from IIT Guwahati— Designed for software developers, tech leads, or AI enthusiasts, this hands-on course explores how GenAI tools can transform the coding workflow.

Artificial Intelligence Graduate Certificate from the University of Colorado Boulder —This comprehensive program helps learners build a strong foundation in key AI topics, including GenAI, natural language processing, computer vision, and ethics.

Generative AI in Marketing Specialization from UVA Darden —This four-course series explores how GenAI frameworks, applications, and considerations are essential to create and sustain an effective AI marketing solution.

Responsible Generative AI Specialization from University of Michigan —By exploring the possibilities and risks of GenAI, learners will be able to identify impacts relevant to business operations,

consumers, society, and the environment.

Change Management for Generative AI course from Vanderbilt University —This course will delve into the strategies and frameworks necessary for organizations to successfully implement and adapt to GenAI.

Generative AI for Kids, Parents, and Teachers course from Vanderbilt University—Designed as a resource for parents and teachers, this free course will help children navigate a world filled with GenAI. It will teach kids how to use GenAI to innovate, solve problems, use multimodal prompting, and engage in creative thinking.

Enhancing 8 entry-level Professional Certificates from IBM, Microsoft and Meta with GenAI updates including activities, readings, and videos.

Entry-level Professional Certificates on Coursera help learners enter high-demand fields like cybersecurity, data analytics, or project management within six months, with no prior degree or experience required. Considering this, Coursera incorporated GenAI-specific content into the following eight entry-level Professional Certificates: Data Analyst from IBM, Data Engineering from IBM, Data Science from IBM, Full Stack Software Developer from IBM, Cybersecurity Analyst from

Microsoft, Power BI Data Analyst from Microsoft, Marketing Analytics from Meta and Social Media Marketing from Meta Expanding GenAI Academy with ‘GenAI for Teams’: This new catalog from top research institutions and companies will equip teams with GenAI skills tailored to their business functions. With real-world applications and secure, handson practice, enterprises can use GenAI Academy to unlock innovation and productivity across functional teams.

GenAI for Software and Product Teams (100+ courses): Streamline routine tasks such as code generation and documentation, freeing up valuable time to create and launch higher value, differentiated offerings.

GenAI for Data Teams (70+ courses): Optimize complex tasks such as data analysis and visualization, enabling deeper insights and more accurate business recommendations.

Cisco, Mapúa unveil PH’s 1st digital classrooms

MAPUA University, one of the top engineering and technological schools in the Philippines, unveiled how it will leverage AI-led collaboration and connectivity tools to redefine the classroom experience for students in the upcoming academic year, beginning in August 2024. Created in collaboration with Cisco as part of its Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program in the Philippines, UGNAYAN 2030, the country’s first digital classrooms support Mapúa’s Tri-X (triple experience) teaching and learning framework, which gives learners the power to choose their mode of participation for every lesson, whether that is face-to-face, synchronous, or asynchronous learning.

“The future of education is here, and our learning modalities at Mapúa are breaking barriers by creating limitless opportunities for personalized, accessible learning. We are excited for this next chapter of our partnership with Cisco to enable students to achieve better learning outcomes with greater flexibility and personalized learning with our digital classrooms. This is a big step towards our vision to foster sustainable socio-economic growth through innovation, digital transformation, and lifelong education,” said Dr. Dodjie S. Maestrecampo, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mapúa University.

GenAI for Marketing Teams (60+ courses): Maximize customer lifetime value with deeper insights, content personalization, and more efficient targeting at scale.

ac-

GLOBAL technology brand HONOR Philippines today announced the launch of the new HONOR 200 Series, an accessible flagship lineup that delivers flagship-level performance and unparalleled AI portrait photography experience. Starting at P24,999, you can now pre-order HONOR 200 and HONOR 200 Pro from July 17 to 26, 2024 to get FREE JBL Soundgear Frames worth P9,499!

“With an unwavering commitment to innovation and unlocking new possibilities in smartphone photography, the HONOR 200 Series product team has collaborated with Studio Harcourt, a legendary Parisian portrait photography house, to co-engineer the HONOR AI Portrait Engine. By combining Studio Harcourt’s expertise and HONOR’s cuttingedge platform-level AI capabilities, the HONOR 200 enables users to unlock studio-level portrait photography on smartphones,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. Unlocking the Mastery of Studio Harcourt Portrait Photography on Smartphones Recognizing the most important tools in portrait photography are light and shadow, and the HONOR 200 Pro has been equipped with advanced hardware and meticulously co-engineered AI-powered software that recognizes even the most subtle nuances of lighting.

The HONOR 200 Pro

features a 50MP Portrait

cess YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, and other streaming platforms. On the

Main Camera with a Super Dynamic H9000 Sensor, enabling users to capture compelling images with the perfect balance of light and shadows in even challenging lighting scenarios.

With support for 4-in-1 pixel binning technology with a pixel size of 2.4μm, users can capture intricate details in their images even in low light scenarios. Additionally, the HONOR 200 Pro features a 50MP Portrait Telephoto Camera and a customized telephoto sensor from Sony, the HONOR 200 Pro provides better light sensing capabilities, ensuring clear and faithful captures of distant objects with exceptional details.

The HONOR 200 Pro takes portrait photography to new heights with the powerful AI-enhanced HONOR AI Portrait Engine.

With a rich history of photographing legends from Roger Federer to the esteemed Queen Rania of Jordan, Studio Harcourt is synonymous with timeless portraits that showcase a symphony of visual storytelling through the skillful use of light and shadows. In collaboration with Studio Harcourt, the HONOR AI Portrait Engine distilled Studio Harcourt’s craftsmanship and understanding of shadow and light expression, empowering users to capture unique, distinctive portraits on their smartphones effortlessly.

The mutual ideation process involved an extensive exploration by more than 20 Studio Harcourt

design front, the Xiaomi TV A Pro models are made with a premium metallic frame with a bezel-less design, giving it a sleek and modern look.

From July 20 to August 31, 2024, Xiaomi fans can avail of Xiaomi TV A Pro models at discounted prices of up to P4,000.

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and HONOR imaging experts over 400 days.

The team analyzed over 1,000 scenarios and millions of datasets, ensuring Studio Harcourt’s classic essence can be captured on smartphones. In addition, the triple 50MP Portrait Camera incorporates an upgraded HONOR RAW Domain Algorithm, producing well-balanced portraits that manage ex-

A strategic partnership with government leadership, industry, and academia to accelerate countries’ national digital agendas, the CDA program in the Philippines, UGNAYAN 2030, aims to build greater digital resilience for the Philippines by addressing the gaps it is facing under the key pillars of connectivity, collaboration, and cybersecurity.

“Technology is transforming the way we work, learn, and live. We are excited to support Mapúa University’s transformative journey to become a leading innovation hub that utilizes cutting-edge teaching and learning methods under UGNAYAN 2030. By helping the university leverage AI and inclusive collaboration tools in the classroom, we are closing the learning divide, enhancing student access, and ensuring quality education for every student nationwide so that no one gets left behind,” said Zaza Soriano-Nicart, Managing Director of Cisco Philippines.

posure in bright areas while preserving intricate details in darker lighting scenarios. Innovative Eye Comfort Display for Extended Immersion

Adhering to its commitment to human-centric innovations, the HONOR 200 Pro features 3840Hz Risk-free Dimming1, as verified by the TÜV Rheinland Flicker Free Display Certification and the TÜV Rheinland Full Care Display Certification.

To ensure extended eye comfort, the HONOR 200 Series also features Natural Tone 2.0, which optimizes the display color temperature gradient based on ambient light, and an AI Circadian Night Display that leverages AI to intelligently adjust the color temperature of the screen to regulate blue light and transition to a melatonin boosting setting at night to improve sleep quality based on users’ sleep cycle.

Furthermore, the HONOR 200 Series supports Adaptive Dimming, which adjusts screen brightness based on external light input and the application use, ensuring a more comfortable viewing experience. With the 1.5K Quad-curved Floating Display2 and a peak HDR brightness of 4000 nits3, the HONOR 200 Series allows users to enjoy excellent visibility even in the most challenging scenarios such as direct sunlight.

that let you control the device seamlessly through Google Voice, and

The digital classrooms support Mapúa’s Tri-X (triple experience) teaching and learning framework.

AI Portrait Master HONOR 200 and Studio Harcourt Paris have o cially arrived in the Philippines.

AS IT ushered in its AI smartphone era, leading global smart device brand OPPO hosted a star-studded weekend to launch the newest OPPO Reno12 Series 5G with brand ambassadors Nadine Lustre and David Licauco in Laguna and Pampanga.

The back-to-back launch events, held in SM City Sta. Rosa with Nadine Lustre and SM City Pampanga with David Licauco, captivated loyal OPPO users and the public as OPPO showcased the capabilities of its AI phone and how it can level up the AI smartphone experience among Filipinos.

Both Nadine and David shared how they enjoyed using the latest addition to OPPO’s renowned Reno Series and the specs of the OPPO Reno12 Series 5G they love the most, including its UltraClear Camera System bannered by a 50MP main camera, sleek design and colorways and the intuitive AI features such as the all new AI Eraser 2.0, AI Studio and AI LinkBoost.

“OPPO Reno Series has always been known to be the best when it comes to photography. And with the upgraded AI Eraser 2.0, it just takes it a notch higher. My photos always turn out perfect and clean, and it ensures that I keep the aesthetic of my feed consistent and minimalist,” Nadine said in a crowd of people in SM City Sta Rosa.

“The phone itself is very sleek, minimalist, and it doesn’t feel bulky or heavy. Nung ginamit ko na, lalo akong na-impress. OPPO Reno12 Series 5G has always been known to be the best when it comes to photography. With the AI smartphone technology that comes with it, taking photos and videos is much easier and enjoyable. I can shoot, edit, and post agad agad!” David

OPPO Reno12 Series 5G launched in a star-studded weekend

shared with fans gathered around SM City Pampanga. Nadine, who loves sharing “aesthetic” photos on her social media platforms, praised the smooth and seam-

less usage of the OPPO Reno12 Series’ upgraded AI Eraser 2.0 which now has a “Remove People” function on top of the improved accuracy of Smart Lasso and Paint Over functions since their in-

itial introduction in the OPPO Reno11 Series 5G last April. “I don’t need to plug it into my computer and use complicated video editing software. With the Smart Lasso and Remove People, I can edit my content on the spot, and post them right away. Posting real time is one of my ways to stay closer to my fans,” Nadine added. For David, who wears many hats as an actor, entrepreneur and a sportsman, he can’t help but enjoy the AI Studio of

GoTyme, fastest-growing bank in PH, ranks no. 1 in customer experience

GOTYME Bank makes banking experience beautiful, receives top NPS and CX scores among all banks in the Philippines.

Barely into its second year, GoTyme Bank is the fastest-growing bank in the country both by customer and transactional growth —with over 250,000 new customers a month and 600% year-on-year growth in monthly transactions.

What drives this unprecedented success? A clear focus on creating the best customer experience in the Philippines.

The Fastest-Growing Bank in the Philippines

A collaboration between the Gokongwei Group and Tyme Group, GoTyme Bank has demonstrated remarkable growth since its operational launch in November 2022. The Gokongwei Group is a major conglomerate in the Philippines with interests in airlines, retail, food manufacturing, petrochemicals, and real estate. Tyme Group is a multi-country digital bank based in Singapore, known for pioneering the world’s first mobile kiosk that enables account opening and printing of a Visa debit card in under five minutes.

Only nine months after its launch, GoTyme Bank reached its first one million customers, and four months later doubled that number to finish 2023 with over 2 million customers. This growth has further accelerated in 2024 with GoTyme Bank adding 1.7m customers in the first half of the year. Possibly more impressive than customer growth has been the growth in customer adoption. Less than two years after launch, GoTyme Bank now ranks #5 amongst all banks in monthly active app users, #5 in Instapay transactions, #2 in visa debit transactions, and #1 in monthly app downloads. In addition, GoTyme Bank’s deposits have surged to over 17 billion pesos, signaling the trust and confidence that Filipinos have in its ability to deliver quality products and services. By every industry measure, it is now the fastest-growing bank in the Philippines in terms of app downloads, active app customer growth, and Instapay and Visa transactions. With its mix of digital and physical touchpoints re-

Tyme Bank foresees adding another 100 kiosk locations by the end of the year as well as more GoTyme ATMs, giving consumers more options for signing up and transacting with GoTyme. What Is Fueling This Growth? #1 Ranking in Customer Experience

GoTyme Bank attributes its rapid growth to an obsession with delivering the best customer experience to its customers. GoTyme’s efforts were recently recognized as Filipino consumers ranked GoTyme Bank #1 in customer experience in two separate independent studies. In a May 2024 study by Forrester, GoTyme Bank achieved a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 76—a 15-point lead over the nearest competitor. The global standard of customer experience metrics, NPS isn’t just a reflection of customer satisfaction, but also loyalty and the likelihood of recommendation. It is measured using a single-question survey and scores can range from -100 to 100.

Another study by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), conducted at the end of 2023, also had GoTyme Bank receiving the top NPS position amongst all banks and eWallets and also came out #1 in the EDB study on Customer Experience (CX) rat-

EOS R5 Mark II: Imagine bigger

CANON announced the launch of the EOS R5 Mark II, a new full-frame mirrorless camera that outperforms the EOS R5, with groundbreaking features like the high-performance new 45-megapixel back-illuminated (BSI) stacked CMOS sensor and Accelerated Capture image processor system. Additionally, it includes enhancements such as Eye Control AF and Cinema EOS features, bringing Canon’s esteemed “5 series” from the EOS system into the next generation.

“The “5 series” is renowned for its high performance and all-rounded features, which empower videographers, content creators and hybrid shooters. In continuation of this legacy, the EOS R5 Mark II inherits the best of the EOS R5 and has been upgraded with innovative features, to make it far more superior. We believe the EOS R5 Mark II would ignite creativity and propel content creation to new heights”, said Ichinomiya Takashi, Director of Regional ICB Sales & Marketing Division, Canon Singapore.

A Power-packed New Core for Unprecedented Performance The new 45-megapixel back-illu-

minated (BSI) stacked CMOS sensor leads the host of feature upgrades. The new Accelerated Capture System, consisting of the all-new DIGIC Accelerator and the DIGIC X image processor, can process high volumes of data at unprecedented speeds. Together, the two pave the way for powerful new features and enable resource-intensive processing that sets new standards for AF performance. Dual Pixel Intelligent AF for Smarter Subject Detection and Tracking

Like the EOS R1, the EOS R5 Mark II is also equipped with the Dual Pixel Intelligent AF system, which leverages the Accelerated Capture system and deep learning. This system greatly improves subject tracking and detection during video and stills shooting. It is highly accurate and capable of tracking the subject even for scenes that were challenging for the EOS R3, like when subjects cross each other and block the main subject.

Videographers and photographers shooting events and concerts will benefit from the Register People Priority

ing with an overall score of 78. These ratings reflect how consumers are delighted and satisfied when they transact with GoTyme Bank.

How Will GoTyme Build on Its Momentum? Banking Made Beautiful

The GoTyme Bank team plans to further strengthen its position as the country’s leader in customer experience with an even heavier focus on making banking products and processes simpler and more convenient. GoTyme Bank’s Chief Marketing Officer, Raymund Villaneuva, expands on this, “At GoTyme Bank, we don’t settle for things that merely work; we strive to create products and offer services that work beautifully. From the moment you sign up, to managing your finances, to interacting with our customer service team, GoTyme Bank ensures that your experience is not just efficient but also beautiful.”

At the event, GoTyme Bank announced a range of new and upcoming products to expand their “beautiful banking” proposition.

• International Accounts. Filipinos living abroad in 170 countries can now open a GoTyme Bank account using an international SIM and enjoy the same benefits and features as local accounts. Among these benefits are easy deposits through more remittance partners, unlimited free GoTyme Bank to GoTyme Bank transfers, three free weekly real-time transfers to other banks, access to bills payment services even when abroad, and no limits (vs. e-wallets).

• Mobile Check Deposit. Deposit checks in a few easy steps using your GoTyme Bank app, anytime, anywhere—no need to go to the bank. Enjoy free, safe, and secure deposits of up to P499,999.99, even with postdated checks. View your deposit status in real-time with regular updates and notifications.

• Pay With Points. Users can now use their GoRewards points to purchase load and/or gaming credits by simply entering the amount in PHP or GoRewards points.

function, as it prioritises a preregistered person for subject detection and tracking even when they are in a crowd and have their face turned sideways. The new Action Priority AF mode will automatically switch the focus point to subjects that are shooting, passing, or heading, helping sports photographers capture decisive moments during dynamic, fast-paced sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball.

Intuitive and Highly Responsive AF Control

For the first time ever on a “5 series” camera, Eye Control AF allows user to shift the AF frame by simply looking at their new subject to focus on. Updated optics and an improved line-of-sight detection algorithm have doubled the detection frame rate as compared to the EOS R3, thus allowing faster, steadier eye movement detection. Both photographers and videographers can also store and recall a specific focus position by utilising the focus preset function, which was only previously available on super telephoto lenses. They can register and recall up to

EOS R5 Mark II with RF24-105mm f/4L IS USM

six different AF-related settings, which allows for a quicker response to different situations.

Cinema Industry Standards for Next Level Video Production In addition to the creative flexibility offered by its internal 8K DCI 60p RAW video recording support, the camera also provides ample industry-standard recording modes and options. Several professional production-oriented Cinema EOS system features were also included for professional filmmaking and video production needs.

the OPPO Reno12 Series 5G, stating how much he had fun trying on the many filters available in the built-in app. “The AI Studio makes my posts and photos more fun. Bilang artista, I have this list of roles that I want to play. The AI Studio can generate images based on the character that I want, para makita ko if bagay.” Nadine and David also treated fans through interactive games and activities that highlighted the OPPO Reno12 Series 5G’s other features such as the AI LinkBoost, BeaconLink and its powerful 5000mAh battery and 80W SUPERVOOC™ Flash Charge. Nadine, along with OPPO Reno League member and model EJ Nacion, led the fun-filled games in SM City Sta. Rosa which drew smiles and laughter among the crowd. David serenaded everyone and interacted with customers who availed the early bird promo of the new OPPO Reno12 Series 5G through a meet and greet session in SM City Pampanga. He also shared how Filipinos can tap into AI with the OPPO Reno12 Series 5G devices easily for as

nato-ku, Tokyo, a professional-focused human resource service provider in Japan. This alliance aims to provide support for the growth and market entry of startups in Japan and Southeast Asia.

TECHSHAKE’s Business

TECHSHAKE’s vision is to expand the startup ecosystem in Southeast Asia, with a focus on the Philippines, and to connect Southeast Asia with the world.

TECHSHAKE (Kotaro Adachi, CEO & Co-Founder) manages and runs the Philippines’ premier innovation conference “IGNITE” in collaboration with dentsu X, a subsidiary of Dentsu Inc. and a provider of integrated media planning, branding, and marketing services. Furthermore, TECHSHAKE operates media platforms, matches startups with established companies and investors, and provides essential support for startups to thrive.

TECHSHAKE is committed to fostering a global environment for business development in the Philippines.

TECHSHAKE is dedicated to nurturing the startup ecosystem in Southeast Asia by connecting entrepreneurs with the necessary resources and networks to succeed. With a strong presence in the Philippines and extensive experience in supporting startups, TECHSHAKE aims to bridge the gap between Southeast Asia and global markets.

Mirai Works (Nagaharu Okamoto, CEO & Co-Founder) is driven by a mission to empower individuals to embrace challenges that shape the future of Japan. Their vision is to cultivate an ecosystem where professionals thrive, regardless of traditional work structures. They are developing a business to provide opportunities for professionals to navigate changes throughout their careers and to support them in the midst of diverse career paths, including independence, entrepreneurship, side businesses, and full-time employment.

OPPO Philippines brand manager Bam Cue, Brand Ambassadors Nadine Lustre and EJ Nacion and OPPO Philippines assistant PR manager Mark Ordoñez led the launch of the OPPO Reno12 Series 5G in SM City Sta. Rosa.

OPPO Brand Ambassador David Licauco spearheadeds the festivities at the launch of the OPPO Reno12 Series 5G in SM City Pampanga.

GoTyme card

SHOWBIZ

Philpop Himig Handog fest unveils top 12 tracks

THE Philpop Himig Handog songwriting festival, the biggest collaboration in music, has unveiled the Top 12 songs that capture the spirit of today’s OPM and reflect the struggles, emotions, and aspirations of the current generation.

Leading the list is “ATM” by Francis Contemplacion, a tribute to his wife inspired by Gary Chapman’s “Five Love Languages,” performed by Ice Seguerra Keith John Quito’s “Buhi” explores the dual meanings of ‘letting go’ and ‘being alive’ in Bisaya, with indie-folk artist Ferdinand Aragon as the interpreter.

Relden Campanilla’s “Dili Na Lang” expresses that love, while beautiful, can be challenging, and features Cebuana artist Jolianne Kevin Yadao’s “Ghostwriter” delves into the experience of being ghosted, brought to life by “Idol Philippines” season 2 winner Khimo Alvin Serito’s “Kurba” celebrates the enchantment of love despite life’s harshness, with this year’s breakthrough OPM artist Maki performing.

Geca Morales’ “Langit Lupa,” inspired by the traditional runningaround game of the same name, is performed by Geca herself, along with “Tawag ng Tanghalan” season 6 champion Lyka Estrella and Idol Philippines season 2 contestant Annrain Rob Angeles’ “MHWG,” short for “mahiwaga,” offers a hopeful message encouraging listeners to embrace life’s unexpected opportunities, interpreted by P-pop group VXON Rinz Ruiz’s “Papahiram” speaks to genuine love that accepts both the good and the bad, with OPM hitmaker Moira and indie musician Johnnoy Danao performing. “Salamat (Nga Wala Na Ta)” by Jimmy Ricks focuses on personal growth and gratitude, with Kurt Fick interpreting the song.

Maric Gavino’s “Taliwala” tells a story of commitment despite fading love, with Noah Alejandre from the duo reon providing the vocals.

Shantel Cyline Lapatha’s “Tulala” is an energetic track about a girl’s instant attraction to a stranger, performed with jazz, funk, and soul

band Extrapolation. Finally, Tiara Shaye’s “Wag Paglaruan” explores the fear of emotional manipulation, with vibrant vocals from FANA and Tiara herself.

Philpop Himig Handog, an initiative of the Philpop Musicfest Foundation and Himig Handog, began as a mentorship program featuring workshops and songwriting sessions for emerging

A decade of ‘Makata pop’

By Angelica Villanueva

WITH the rise of various bands and artists in the local music scene, Original Pilipino Music (OPM) continues to thrive, offering a diverse array of genres.

Inspired by past generations of Filipino musicians, today’s artists are pushing the boundaries of music genres, whether it’s ballads, rock, hip-hop, or folk.

Among these artists is Munimuni, a Filipino indie folk band consisting of Adj Jiao (guitar and vocals), John Owen Castro (flute and vocals), Jolo Ferrer (bass), Josh Tumaliuan (drums), and Ben Ayes (guitar). Munimuni brings a distinctive sound to the Filipino music scene.

Formed at UP Diliman, Munimuni is celebrating a decade of blending folk with contemporary influences, creating a sound they call “makata pop.”

In 2014, they adopted the “makata pop band” moniker during an interview. What started as a joke became a reflection of their songwriting process—a blend of Filipino poetry woven into their lyrics and music.

“It was a joke that ended up making sense because, technically, our songwriting is poetry. We appreciate that it resonated with our listeners,” said vocalist and guitarist Adj in an interview with Manila Standard Entertainment

The band also mentioned that their identity as a “makata band” has remained true, despite their years

in the industry.

“Lyrics-wise, we don’t know if there will be future pressure. But for us, the music itself is a form of poetry,” John Owen shared. “The chords and arrangements are intentionally aligned with the lyrics, making it poetic. Even if you removed the lyrics, the music alone would still be makata in a way.”

Reflecting on their decade in the industry, the band emphasized the lessons

they’ve learned.

“There were times I wanted to stop doing what I do, but I’ve learned to return to why I started in the first place,” Josh said.

Adj added, “One important lesson is to keep exploring the art of music itself. Our latest album, ‘Alegoria,’ reflects this as we push our creative boundaries, even after all these years.”

As they enter their new era, Munimuni is celebrating their 10th anniversary by headlining their third major concert tonight at the UP Theater in Quezon City.

The concert, titled Alegorya: A Munimuni Concert , is inspired by their sophomore album of the same name.

The event promises a fresh take on their usual performances and previous full-length concerts. Joining Munimuni are singersongwriters Barbie Almalbis, Clara Benin, Keiko Necesario, and Any Names Okay’s Sofia Abrogar

Presented by GNN Entertainment Productions, tickets for Alegorya: A Munimuni Concert are available at bit.ly/alegorya.

Karaoke World Championships returns to PH

THE Philippines is hosting the Karaoke World Championships (KWC) this year, the biggest event for the karaoke community and amateur singers. Auditions are happening in key cities

this month, with the grand finals scheduled for August. Since its inception in Finland in 2003, KWC has provided a platform for talented amateur singers worldwide. This year’s event at SM Supermalls, produced by The New Channel (TNC) with support from True Creators Philippines Advertising Inc. and Praxis Experiential Ad. Inc., promises an extraordinary experience for Filipino culture-loving music enthusiasts.

Apple Esplana-Manansala president of TNC, expressed excitement about the event, highlighting generous support from sponsors like SM Supermalls, SM Online, Sante Barley Max, Hapee Toothpaste, Everest Appliances, Katinko, Unisol, Quanta, and Tiffany Chocolates.

Winners will represent the Philippines in Finland and receive special prizes, cash awards, and chances to boost their careers.

Sante Barley supports the event by promoting health and wellness to help singers perform their best. For Manansala, hosting KWC highlights local talents, providing international recognition and exposure.

“KWC isn’t just about individual singers. It’s about national pride,” she said.

After the first leg of auditions in Mindanao on July 13 at SM General Santos City, the next auditions will be held in Visayas on July 21 at SM City Cebu, in Luzon on July 27 at SM Pampanga, and in Metro Manila on Aug. 3 at SM North EDSA Skydome.

The Grand Finals on August 16 at SM North EDSA Skydome will feature performances by Nyoy Volante , Hazel Faith, and Maki

For more information about KWC 2024, please visit https:// thenewchannel.com/highlights/ category/tnc-special/karaokeworld-championships-kwc/

The composers and interpreters for this year’s Philpop Himig Handog festival

The first leg of the KWC 2024 auditions in Mindanao

Indie folk band Munimumi is known for their unique sound blending folk with contemporary music

Experience global hair artistry at TONI&GUY’s inaugural hair show

TONI&GUY has a long-standing reputation for excellence in hairdressing, known throughout the world for its commitment to quality and consistency. With a team of highly skilled and awardwinning hairdressers, it holds the record for the most awards in British Hairdressing history.

As a trendsetter in fashion-inspired hair, TONI&GUY participates in major fashion events like Fashion Week and invests heavily in stylist education and training. This ensures top-notch service across its nearly 650 salons in 38 countries.

In the Philippines, TONI&GUY is hosting its inaugural hair show, “TONI&GUY WORLD: A Celebration of Global and Local Creativity,” on July 29 at The Fifth at Rockwell. This much-anticipated event will feature top talents including Cos Sakkas, Efi Davies, Francesco Fontana, and Bill Watson

Founded in 1963 by the Mascolo brothers, TONI&GUY has been a leader in hairdressing innovation. Its strong ties to fashion are reflected in its partnerships with the British Fashion Council and its prominent role in London Fashion Week and The Fashion Awards. The brand supports over 100 fashion shows annually, working with designers

like Paul Costello and Mary Katrantzou

The show will highlight the work of Cos Sakkas, TONI&GUY’s

Global Creative Director and a twotime British Hairdresser of the Year,

CONRAD Manila is celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival with its exclusive mooncake collection, “Moonlit Opulence,” available only at the hotel’s acclaimed Chinese restaurant, China Blue by Jereme Leung (CBJL).

The collection, a blend of tradition and innovation, is on offer until Sept. 20. The limited-edition Moonlit Opulence box features four distinct mooncakes and a special CBJL Chinese tea—a premium, 100 percent organic green tea infused with Jasmine flowers. The mooncake flavors include Baked White Lotus Single Salted Egg Yolk, Baked Red Bean Single Salted Egg Yolk, Baked Mixed Nut Salted Caramel, and Teoh Chew Single Salted Egg Yolk Taro.

Priced at P4,888 nett, the mooncakes come in an elegantly designed royal blue box, adding a touch of sophistication to the festive season. Early bird and bulk order discounts are available: enjoy a special rate of P4,488 nett for purchases made between July 15 and Aug. 15, and an exclusive price of P3,950 nett for orders of 15 or more boxes from July 15 to Sept. 20. For more information about KWC 2024, please visit https:// thenewchannel.com/highlights/category/tnc-special/karaokeworld-championships-kwc/ THE Rotary Club of Cubao (District 3780) shall hold its 55th handover and induction ceremonies on July 20,

Very Wang Nickie Wang