PNP recalls 75 police assigned to VP Sara
By Rex Espiritu and Rio Araja
EIGHT people died from the combined effects of Typhoon “Carina,” Tropical Depression “Butchoy,” and the southwest monsoon or “habagat,” the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said yesterday. In its latest situation report, the council said the figure included seven confirmed fatalities—four in Zamboanga Peninsula and one each
But Marbil says pull out coordinated with OVP, not political
By Rachelle Tonelada and Vince Lopez
VICE President
Sara Duterte disclosed the Philippine National Police (PNP) leadership recalled 75 cops previously assigned to protect her.
The cops were all members of the PNP Police and Security Group.
"I want to assure the public that this Order will not affect my work in the Office of the Vice President," Duterte said in a statement.
"I do hope, however, that with this latest directive of the Chief PNP, we hear less cries from the people regarding the proliferation of drugs in the country, and that even fewer shall fall victim to various criminal activities," she added.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil explained the recall of police officers
By Vito Barcelo and Macon Ramos-Araneta
THE Office of the Solicitor General is set to file quo warranto petition against suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo before the end of the month. A quo warranto proceeding is a legal remedy to determine a person's right or title to a public office and to oust the holder from its enjoyment.
Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said they are just "incorporating" new
FLOODED. Typhoon Carina, enhanced by the southwest monsoon or habagat, continues to bring heavy rainfall to parts of Luzon as it moves northward, including in parts of Calumpit, Bulacan (lower photo) and along Tañong Street in Malabon City (upper right). In Manila (upper left), a downpour immerses Taft Avenue and UN Avenue in gutterdeep floods on Tuesday, July 23, 2024. Yancy Lim, Ryan Maniacop and Norman Cruz
By Darwin G. Amojelar, Maricel V. Cruz, Macon Ramos-Araneta and Miguel
PRESIDENT Marcos' total ban on POGOs effectively derailed the ambitions of politicians banking on the industry’s support to bankroll their candidacies in the May 2025 midterm elections, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers
By Macon Ramos-Araneta
By Othel V. Campos and Rachelle Tonelada
C. Gil
Top China, US diplomats to meet with ASEAN counterparts in Laos
SOUTHEAST Asian foreign ministers gather in Laos this week for talks on the disputed South China Sea and the conflict in Myanmar, with top diplomats from China and the United States slated to meet on the sidelines.
The three-day meeting of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) starts in the capital Vientiane on Thursday.
Antony Blinken will meet Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of the event at which he will "discuss the importance of adherence to international law in the South China Sea," according to the US State Department.
Beijing claims the waterway –through which trillions of dollars of
PNP...
from protective security duties of various personalities, including some government officials, is meant to rationalize their deployment to security operations.
Marbil said prior coordination with the Office of the Vice President was made before the police officers rendering protective security were pulled out.
"We talked to them. Our PSPG talked to the chief of staff of our VP because they already have so many people there. We asked them if we
Three...
From A1 in Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The agency said it is validating reports of another death in BARMM as well as two injured residents and one missing in Region 10.
The three weather disturbances caused P8,745,923.23 in agricultural damage as of Tuesday, while damage to infrastructure stood at P700,000.
Some 179,744 families or 866,483
High-level...
From A1
The US officials, arriving on July 30, will also participate in the first USPhilippines 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue with their Philippine counterparts, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro.
The meetings will focus on reaffirming the shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, upholding international law, and deepening collaboration on various challenges. Blinken's visit to the Philippines is part of a broader tour of the Indo-Pacific region, which also includes stops in Japan, Vietnam, Laos, Singapore, and Mongolia.
Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel J. Kritenbrink underscored the importance of partnerships in navigating current geo-
He said the President’s directive would deal a serious financial blow on government officials whom he referred to as mga “Bagong Makapili,” who enjoyed numerous perks by enabling POGOs and the illegal activities surrounding them.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), for its part, said some POGOs may go underground because of the total ban.
In an interview with ANC, PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio said the over 5-month timeframe given by Mr. Marcos is sufficient.
"If all of the agencies of government will really get their heads together, get their acts together, then five months to six months is more than enough," he said. Casio said that if necessary, the PAOCC can close down one POGO company every two weeks with the
trade passes annually – almost in its entirety despite an international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.
A series of clashes between Philippine and Chinese vessels at flashpoint reefs in recent months have fuelled fears of a conflict that could drag in the United States owing to its mutual defense treaty with Manila.
ASEAN ministers are expected to issue a joint communique after their meeting on Thursday.
can transfer our personnel and we transferred them because we really need them in the NCR," he said after a press briefing.
He said the VP's security is primarily under the Presidential Security Group (PSG) and that the PSPG only complements security details.
Marbil said they need more officers to be assigned on the streets to further boost peace and order measures, especially in urban areas.
“They are saying that she is being singled out. No. W need more policemen on the ground and even retired generals, so we pulled out their security because we need more men on the ground,” Marbil said.
persons residing in 642 barangays in Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Caraga and the BARMM were affected by the bad weather.
Around 7,738 families or 33,645 individuals are being sheltered inside 56 evacuation centers while another 114,481 families or 572,412 persons are being aided outside.
Some 236 houses were reported damaged in eight regions.
At least seven roads and one bridge remained impassable due to damage, while an airport and three seaports are not operational, the NDRRMC said.
political challenges.
“During this year’s 2+2 Dialogue, the four Secretaries are expected to discuss how to further enhance our two countries’ ironclad commitment to this alliance while enabling a common program in support of the rulesbased international order, enhanced economic ties, broad-based prosperity, and solutions to evolving regional and global security challenges,” the US embassy said.
Kritenbrink reaffirmed Washington's “ironclad commitment” to support its Filipino allies in upholding “support of international law, respect for international law, the peaceful resolution of disputes, and the maintenance of the status quo at Ayungin Shoal.”
Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, for his part, urged China to accept the declaration of President Marcos the West Philippine Sea in his third State of the Nation Address on Monday.
cooperation of the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation.
He said a “good number” of POGOs might comply with Mr. Marcos' order and voluntarily cease their operations before the end of the year.
For his part, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the order to outlaw POGOs reflects the government's thrust to effectively and fairly administer justice.
"Once again, the President's firm resolve to safeguard the rule of law and protect the most vulnerable members of society is crystal clear with his pronouncements and actions," Remulla said.
For its part, the Employers’ Confederation of the Philippines said it would help find alternative jobs for soon-to-be-displaced Filipino employees of POGOs.
“Aside from the Filipinos directly employed by POGOs, job losses will result from vacancies in office spaces
In a draft seen by AFP, some ministers expressed concerns over "serious incidents" in the waterway "which have eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions, and may undermine peace, security, and stability in the region."
A Filipino sailor lost a thumb in a June 17 confrontation when Chinese coast guard members wielding knives, sticks and an axe foiled a Philippine Navy attempt to resupply its troops on a remote outpost.
Beijing and Manila later reached an agreement allowing for the resupply of the troops stationed on a rusty warship deliberately grounded on Ayungin Shoal in 1999 to assert Manila's claims
The PNP chief said the measure was also related to his previous order of deploying at least 80 percent of policemen to the ground.
In September, the Office of the Vice President defended the deployment of 433 security personnel for Duterte in 2022 that was noted in a Commission on Audit report.
“Comparisons between Vice President Sara Duterte and the security personnel of former Vice Presidents are absurd and completely lacking basis,” the OVP said.
The statement was released after the Commission on Audit reported that the OVP had 433 security escorts in 2022, translating to 63 percent of the
At least 294 passengers were stranded in various ports in Southern Tagalog and Bicol due to Carina, the Philippine Coast Guard said.
In Occidental Mindoro, the PCG conducted a pre-emptive evacuation of 326 residents in Sitio Pandan, Barangay Claudio Salgado, Sablayan, following flooding in the area.
As of 5 p.m. Tuesday, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 remained hoisted in Batanes, the state weather bureau said.
Signal No. 1 is up over Cagayan, parts of Isabela, parts of Apayao and parts of Ilocos Norte. Typhoon Carina is expected to exit
OSG...
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evidence that "turned up" from the Senate investigation into the supposed illegal POGO operation in Bamban.
“More evidence keeps on turning up that strengthens our case. We’re incorporating these and consolidating everything,” he said.
Guo, whose Filipino citizenship is being questioned, is being linked to the illegal POGO hub that was raided by authorities in Bamban. She has denied the allegations and insisted that she is a Filipino citizen.
The Commission on Elections, for its part, said it will visit the municipality of Bamban to get the election day computerized voters list (EDCVL) containing the details of voters who cast their ballots and their fingerprints.
Comelec chairman George Garcia said the documents they will obtain can be used to support the OSG case
and condos (being rented by POGOs) and other businesses catering to their workers like grocery stores and even some banks,” ECOP president Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr. said.
He said that through an ECOP initiative called “Project Jobs,” a good number of these displaced workers might land fresh employment in areas such as the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector and other backroom operations.
PAGCOR estimated that up to 40,000 Filipino workers of legitimate POGO companies would lose their jobs once their employers close shop.
PAGCOR chairperson and CEO Alejandro Tengco said that about 31,000 direct POGO employees and more than 9,000 workers in special business process outsourcing (SBPOs) catering to POGOs would lose their jobs.
“When we talk about the legal ones, I’m talking of Filipino workers…Almost 31,000 are directly
to the area. One diplomat who is attending the meeting in Vientiane said China's assertiveness in the sea was pushing some Southeast Asian countries closer to the United States.
Diplomats in the region were also preparing for the possibility of a Donald Trump victory in November's US election, they said, requesting anonymity to speak to the media.
ASEAN countries "more or less have a feel of how to deal with him... They know what his trigger points are, what he likes, what he dislikes," he said.
Also on the agenda in Vientiane is the civil war in Myanmar, sparked by a military coup in 2021. AFP
OVP personnel. It was also a 455 percent hike from the 78 detailed military personnel under former Vice President Leni Robredo.
“The Commission on Audit found no adverse finding on the creation of the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group,” the OVP added.
The OVP also defended the additional security personnel for Duterte by citing her other titles, including as Secretary of the Department of Education and covice chairperson of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).
Duterte has since resigned from her Cabinet positions last month.
the Philippine area of responsibility by Thursday.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Disaster Response Command Center on Tuesday declared a “red alert” status as the “habagat” enhanced by Typhoon Carina continued to drench large parts of Luzon and Visayas islands.
DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said a red alert means that “all human and material resources are made available for duty and deployment.”
The agency has provided an initial P190,124 worth of humanitarian assistance to the affected localities in Central Luzon, Bicol, and Western Visayas.
against the suspended mayor.
“We’re sure our findings will be helpful to the OSG,” Garcia said.
Senate President Francis Escudero, meanwhile, said he rejected Guo's apology and request for understanding, adding that she has to appear at the hearing on July 29 to address the allegations against her.
Escudero said he received a letter from Guo on July 22 apologizing for her failure to attend two past hearings that prompted the Senate to issue an arrest warrant against her.
Guo expressed her readiness to face her cases with various government agencies, including the Ombudsman, Department of Justice, Bureau of Internal Revenue, and the courts, to prove her innocence, but made no mention about attending the Senate probe.
Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping according to the National Bureau of Investigation, underscored her desire to defend herself in the proper forum.
working with POGOs. There are almost 9,800 or almost 10,000 in SBPO, a special class of BPO. They are not directly involved in gaming operations. Just like those in the BPO industry, they cater to clients from gaming companies in America, in Canada, and in Europe,” Tengco said in an interview with dzBB.
This figure, he explained, did not yet include drivers, security guards, messengers and helpers in POGOs.
Tengo said some P7 billion in revenues will be lost once POGOs cease operations.
Still, the country’s two top economic managers said projected losses from the closure of POGOs are outweighed by the negative social impacts.
“POGO contributed to less than one half of 1 pecent in our GDP (gross domestic product) as of 2022, that's what we are likely to lose. If you take that into account, the benefits of banning POGOs outweigh the costs. I think, more important than just the
New ‘vax-like’ HIV drug could cost just $40
A NEW "vaccine-like" HIV drug that currently costs over $40,000 per person a year could be made for as little as $40, researchers estimated on Tuesday. The antiretroviral drug Lenacapavir, developed by US pharmaceutical giant Gilead, has been hailed as a potential game-changer in the fight against HIV.
Early trials have found the treatment is 100 percent effective in preventing HIV infection. And it only needs to be injected twice a year, making the drug far easier to administer than current regimens requiring daily pills.
"It's like having a vaccine basically," Andrew Hill, a researcher at the UK's Liverpool University, told AFP.
The treatment currently costs patients over $40,000 a year in a range of countries including the United States, France, Norway and Australia. New research, which Hill presented at the International AIDS Conference in Munich on Tuesday, looked into how much the cost of making the drug could come down if Gilead allowed for cheaper generic versions to be manufactured.
A year's worth of the drug could be made for as little as $40 – 1,000 times less than the current price – according to the research, which has not been peer reviewed.
This price was based on production volumes equal to treating 10 million people.
If the drug was given to people at high risk of contracting HIV – such as gay or bisexual men, sex workers, prisoners or notably young women in Africa – it could "basically shut down HIV transmission," Hill emphasized.
"We could actually control the epidemic."
There were 1.3 million new HIV infections last year, while 39 million people are living with the virus, according to the World Health Organization.
To estimate the cost, the researchers studied shipments of raw materials of the drug, and spoke to large generic manufacturers in China and India that already make its "building blocks," Hill said. AFP
Senators... From A1
would agree with him and would join him seeking the intervention of the President, whom they believe has an open mind on the matter.
Senato JV Ejercito and Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino seconded Escudero's proposal. Meanwhile, during the hearing, members of the group Manibela held a protest outside the Senate to demand the suspension of the PUVMP.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said 83.38 percent of more than 190,000 units have consolidated, while 63.96 percent of route consolidation has been achieved, and 1,749 transport cooperatives have been formed. In a statement, the transport group PISTON said their call to halt the implementation of the jeepney phase out is “just and urgent.”
“It is a reflection of the Filipino people's widespread disgust over the over the exploitative policies on public transport and other vital public services in the past several years under the corrupt and puppet regimes of both Duterte and Marcos,” the militant group said.
economic numbers, are social costs and reputational costs to the country of hosting this kind of business is not good at all,” NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said during a Post-SONA Forum Tuesday. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto added: “We have seen the negative impacts and destruction they have caused to our country because of crimes. Banning them won't significantly affect the economy because the costs of keeping them far outweigh the benefits.”
Estimates from the DOF showed POGOs’ estimated total economic benefits only amounted to P166.49 billion per year, significantly lower than the estimated total economic costs of P265.74 billion annually. The tabulation of POGOs’ economic benefits took into account government revenues, such as tax revenues from the Bureau of Internal Revenue as well as Gross Gaming Revenues from PAGCOR.
Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio ‘Dong’ D. Gonzales Jr.:
Building an empowered district through good governance
By Patricia Taculao-Deligero
PAMPANGA’S Third District boasts of a vibrant tapestry of natural beauty and thriving development. Nestled within its boundaries are charming towns and bustling cities, each contributing to the district’s unique character. The district consists of the provincial capital city of San Fernando and the adjacent municipalities of Arayat, Bacolor, Mexico, and Santa Ana.
Under the astute leadership of Rep. Aurelio D. Gonzales Jr., Pampanga’s Third District has undergone a remarkable transformation. The district, once a place of natural wonders and historical landscapes, has now become a thriving hub of progress. The modern infrastructure, efficient transportation networks, well-maintained roads and bridges, and the modernization of educational and medical institutions have all contributed to the improved quality of life for the residents. This progress has not only met their fundamental health, knowledge, and livelihood needs but also instilled a deep sense of pride and satisfaction in the community. Yet infrastructure can only go some ways. Another true testament to the district’s success is having capable leaders who can leverage available resources and guide the people toward a better path. For Pampanga’s Third District, this role falls on the shoulders of Rep. Aurelio D. Gonzales Jr. Known affectionately as “Dong” by many, Rep. Gonzales has a deep-rooted connection to Pampanga. He was born and raised in the province, where he also completed his primary and secondary education at Anao Elementary School from 1969 to 1975 and Anao High School from 1975 to 1979, respectively, in Mexico, Pampanga.
He then studied Civil Engineering from 1979 to 1984 and Environmental and Sanitary Engineering from 1987 to 1989 at the Mapua Institute of Technology in Manila. His background
in the discipline led him to become the President and CEO of A.D. Gonzales, Jr. Construction and Trading Co., Inc. from 1987 to 2007 and again from 2013 to 2016.
Despite his illustrious career in his field, Rep. Gonzales Jr. remained affectionate toward his province. His political journey began with becoming a Provincial Board Member from 2004 to 2007. Eventually, fate led him to the House of Representatives, where he held office during the 14th and 15th Congress and again during the 17th until the 19th Congress.
In 2023, the district representative provided social assistance to his constituents for education, finances, and livelihood, further empowering his district to pursue their interests and realize their potential.
Rep. Gonzales Jr. remains active in aiding beneficiaries in 2024. For instance, the Department of Health’s Medical Assistance to Indigent Patients (DOH MAIP) reached 44,145, while the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (DOLETUPAD) program under the district representative reached 36,652, adding to the growing numbers of beneficiaries in his administration.
The House of Representatives duly recognized the district representative’s capabilities, giving him roles as the Assistant Majority Leader during the 15th Congress, the Deputy Majority Leader and Vice Chairman of the Committee of Public Works and Highways in the 17th Congress, Chairperson of the Special
Committee on Bases Conversion in the 18th Congress. In the 19th Congress, he holds the distinction of Senior Deputy Speaker.
Rep. Gonzales Jr. has a robust legislative record, having authored 188 bills and co-authored 28 others. His dedication to his community in Pampanga’s Third District is evident in his numerous efforts.
Moreover, the district representative has left an indelible mark on his district through his legislative efforts. Some of the bills he principally authored focus on empowering his district. For instance, Republic Act No. 9506, or “Dong Gonzales Law,” is “An Act Creating the Bacolor Rehabilitation Council and Appropriating Funds Therefor.” Other laws include Republic Act No. 9832, which aims to convert the Don Honorio Ventura College of Arts and Trades into the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University, and Republic Act No. 11169, or “An Act Renaming The Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University (DHVTSU) In The Municipality Of Bacolor, Province Of Pampanga As The Don Honorio Ventura State University(DHVSU), And Expanding Its Curricular Offerings.” These laws have not only brought about tangible changes but also empowered the district, fostering a sense of progress and development.
Rep. Aurelio D. Gonzales Jr. continues to build a solid foundation for Pampanga’s Third District and leads his constituents toward a better future by example. He shows that good governance should be a staple in promoting a community’s growth.
Embracing Heritage: Pampanga’s 3rd District
By Peter Paul Duran
PAMPANGA’S 3rd congressional district, represented by Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr., stands as a testament to the rich culture and history of the Philippines.
Comprising the provincial capital city of San Fernando and the adjacent municipalities of Arayat, Bacolor, Mexico, and Santa Ana, this district offers a unique blend of culinary delights, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural festivals, all contributing to the vision of Bagong Pilipinas.
San Fernando San Fernando, the capital city of Pampanga, is renowned for its Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul), a vibrant celebration held every December showcasing the city’s artistry and craftsmanship in creating enormous, intricate lanterns. This festival, attracting tourists worldwide, reflects the city’s dedication to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage. San Fernando is also home to historical landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Fernando, which stands as a symbol of the city’s colonial past and architectural splendor.
Arayat
Arayat is a town that perfectly balances nature and tradition. Dominated by the majestic Mount Arayat, this municipality is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The town’s cultural heritage is celebrated through its various local festivals, including the Apung Iru Fluvial Procession, which honors the town’s patron saint and showcases the community’s deep-rooted faith and traditions. Arayat’s agricultural produce, particularly rice and vegetables, also plays a significant role in the local economy.
Bacolor
Bacolor is a town known for its resilience and recovery after being heavily affected by the Mount Pinatubo
eruption in 1991. The San Guillermo Church, half-buried by lahar, stands as a poignant reminder of the town’s resilience and ability to rebuild. Bacolor’s culinary offerings, such as the famous tamales and bringhe (a local rice dish), highlight the town’s rich culinary heritage and contribute to the district’s reputation as a food destination. Mexico Mexico, Pampanga, is a municipality that seamlessly blends old traditions with modern development. Known for its historical sites like the Santa Monica Parish Church, Mexico is also famous for its local delicacies such as tocino (sweet cured pork) and the unique tibuk-tibok (carabao’s milk pudding). The town’s vibrant local markets and festivals reflect its dynamic community spirit and dedication to cultural preservation.
Santa Ana
Santa Ana is a culinary gem in Pampanga, renowned for its Kapampangan cuisine. The town is famous for its sisig, a savory pork dish that has gained international acclaim. Santa Ana’s rich culinary heritage is showcased through its various food festivals and local eateries, making it a mustvisit destination for food enthusiasts. The town’s historical sites, such as the Santa Ana Church, also contribute to its cultural richness. Under the leadership of Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Pampanga’s 3rd congressional district continues to thrive, blending its rich historical and cultural heritage with modern development. Each municipality within the district contributes uniquely to the region’s identity, showcasing the best of local craftsmanship, culinary artistry, and community spirit. Through these efforts, the district embodies the essence of Bagong Pilipinas, reflecting progress and resilience in every aspect.
and its Cultural Treasures
Halt ‘mother tongue’ use in K1 to Grade 3 Gatchalian
THE Senate has approved on third and final reading a bill seeking to discontinue the use of “Mother Tongue” or regional dialects in kindergartens to Grade 3 Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Ramon Revilla Jr. introduced Senate Bill No. 2457 or “Discontinuing the Use of the Mother Tongue” as the medium of Instruction.
The measure proposes the return of the medium of instructions to Filipino and English languages as mandated by the Constitution, with regional languages or local dialects being used only as an auxiliary or supplementary media of instruction.
According to Gatchalian who sponsored the SB 2457, “Mother tongue as the medium of instruction is not a one-size-fits-all solution for every classroom.”
He noted that it was effective only in monolingual environments where learners are uniformly native speakers of the same mother tongue.
He said key experiments cited by the Department of Education (DepEd) as bases for implementing the mother tongue education proved that the policy is only effective in school settings where everybody is using the same language, especially in rural areas.
Gatchalian cited two studies conducted in homogeneous schools which showed that the group of learners exposed to the mother tongue instruction performed significantly better in Math and Reading as compared to the learners who were not. Macon Ramos-Araneta
Padilla to pursue Cha-cha debates
By Macon Ramos-Araneta
AMID declaration by Senate President Francis Escudero that Charter change (Cha-cha) is not a priority of the administration, Sen. Robin Padilla said he will continue the Senate hearings and more importantly, the debates - on proposals to amend the 1987 Constitution.
In another development Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, vowed to help Filipinos to be dislocated and left jobless with the prohibition of all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators as enunci-
ated by President Marcos Jr. in his third State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Escudero said the measures seeking to rewrite the economic provisions of the Constitution will be placed in the
“backburner” for the time being.
“I just want debates to occur because that is the role of Congress, to debate on key issues,” he said,
“What hurts me is that moves to amend the Charter seem to be blocked. But the Senate President has said he is okay with debates on the matter,” said Padilla, chairman of the Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes.
Padilla said he welcomes Escudero’s pronouncement that he is amenable to debates on Cha-cha.
Padilla said his committee will continue to hold hearings on proposals to also amend
political provisions of the Constitution. He expressed confidence the committee reports culled from the committee hearings would reach the plenary.
“Now is the time to talk about the Constitution,” he said, Meanwhile, Gatchalian gave assurance he would assist Filipino workers who would lose their jobs with the absolute ban on POGOs.
“I want to assure Filipino workers who will be adversely affected by the ban that I will personally ensure they receive the appropriate support to tide them over,” said Gatchalian.
FREE OR DISCOUNTED HOSPITALIZATION FOR COPS. The Philippine National Police and the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center forge an agreement providing free or discounted hospitalization policemen at the Sta. Cruz, Manila-based facility. Photo taken following the signing rite shows (from left) PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, CGHMC president Kelly Sia, Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., and CGHMC chairman Antonio Tan. Norman Cruz
Marcos leads rites marking Mabini’s 160th birthday
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday led the commemoration of the 160th birth anniversary of the national hero Apolinario Mabini called the Sublime Paralytic.
In his remarks, the President highlighted Mabini’s legacy at the Dambana ni Apolinario Mabini in Tanauan City, Batangas.
“I join the Filipino people in celebrating the 160th birth anniversary of our beloved hero,
Apolinario Mabini,” Marcos said.
“Today, we remember and honor the ‘Dakilang Paralitiko’ who dedicated his meaningful life to our nation,” he added.
The Chief Executive urged the youth to draw inspiration from Mabini in order to succeed and contribute to a progressive Philippines.
“I’m calling on Filipino youth today to take inspiration from and make Apolinario Mabini’s life an example in their own struggles,” Marcos said.
“Mabini shows us that despite challenges, anyone can make a difference and succeed,” Mr. Marcos said, emphasizing unity in building a compassionate and productive society. Mabini was born in poverty on July 23, 1864. Despite becoming paralyzed, he earned a law degree and played a key role in the 1898 revolution against Spain and the subsequent fight against American colonization.
Risa pushes bill on gender equality
SENATOR Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday called for the immediate passage of a bill on gender equality.
“I am one with the LGBTIQ+ Community and their families in calling for the passage of the SOGIE Equality Bill,”she said.
“Equality and Non-Discrimination should be part of the national agenda,” Hontiveros said. She noted that during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA), a growing coalition of legislators and celebrities proudly donned rainbow pins.
According to her, the rainbow pins signified their unwavering support for the in -
clusion of the SOGIE Equality Bill in the national agenda. The opposition senator stood out with her rainbow pin and an elegant piña fabric terno designed by Joel Acebuche.
Prominent figures such as comedian John Lapus and weatherman Ariel Rojas also made their support known on social media, sharing photos of themselves wearing the rainbow pin.
“Discrimination is an obstacle in development,” Hontiveros said.
She added that every Filipino regardless of gender, should freely contribute to the country “I am with the call to pass SOGIE Equality Bill,” she said. Macon Ramos-Araneta
IN BRIEF
Plane pax warned vs. carrying banned items
AIRPORT officials have issued another warning to travelers against bringing banned items like firearms, gun replicas, ammunition, and amulets to minimize flight delays and discomfort for other passengers.
The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) continues to apprehend individuals in possession of prohibited materials at the airport.
In recent incidents this month, OTS personnel intercepted passengers WITH airsoft gun and seven empty magazines at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) terminals 2 and 4.
Airport security screening officers Vilma Esteban and Catherine Aspiras confiscated an airsoft gun from a passenger’s checked in baggage bound for El Nido. Joel E. Zurbano
Solon seeks passage of comfort women bill
GABRIELA party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas on Tuesday called for the urgent passage of House Bill 8564 or the Comfort Women Education Act, citing the critical need to educate Filipino youth about the historical struggles of the so-called comfort women during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines.
"The recent social media buzz surrounding the upcoming GMA series “Pulang Araw” has exposed a concerning lack of awareness about the plight of comfort women among our citizens. This gap in historical knowledge underscores the pressing need for the Comfort Women Education Act," Brosas said in a statement.
The bill integrates the lives and heroism of the comfort women into the curricula of elementary, secondary, and tertiary education institutions. This move comes at a time when the Philippines has signed the Reciprocal Access Agreement with Japan. Maricel V. Cruz
BI nabs two foreigners wanted in US, Korea
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested in separate raids in Pasay City and Dumaguete City a leader of a Korean drug syndicate and an American-Japanese wanted for illegal possession of firearms and aggravated assault. The Korean, identified as Kim Jinsu, allegedly headed a drug syndicate that facilitated the illegal importation, distribution and sale in Korea of illegal drugs worth more than 5 billion won, or about $3.6 million.
The American-Japanese, identified as Malik Dejoun Okojie, was nabbed by the BI operatives in his home in Bgy. Bagumpandan, Dumaguete City. He was reportedly indicted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in violation of the Texas penal code, in the USA. Vito Barcelo
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
OPINION
A new dawn for BARMM
THERE’S plenty of good news from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) after decades of armed conflict.
First, the poverty rate has declined from 39.4 percent in 2021 to 34 percent at present, and continues to go down, according to BARMM Cabinet Secretary Mohd Asnin Pendatun in a recent media forum.
He credited this to the autonomy the region now enjoys under the Marcos Jr. administration, which he said has “produced results.”
Since the national government has targeted to reduce poverty incidence in the entire country to single-digit level by 2028, the current BARMM leadership is hopeful it can meet this target as well.
Second, because of the vastly improved peace and security situation, BARMM is now attracting more investments that can further reduce poverty incidence.
Pendatun cited the P3.1 billion worth of investments in 2023 that translated to 1,927 job opportunities.
Since the start of this year, investments in Bangsamoro have already reached about P3.5 billion, he said.
The BARMM leadership is now exploring the possibility of developing natural gas and other natural resources in the region, particularly in the Liguasan Marsh.
Third, the current administration has expressed full support for socio-economic development of Muslim Mindanao.
In fact, according to Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., BARMM can contribute to the country’s food security as its agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries sectors are thriving,
A third of the country’s total volume of fisheries and agricultural products actually comes from BARMM.
Fourth, with peace restored in BARMM after many years armed hostilities, the tourism sector is slowly but steadily growing.
Last year, the region welcomed more than 558,000 tourists, at least 1,394 of whom were foreign nationals.
Pendatun said in the past foreign tourists did not want to visit the region because of the unstable peace and order situation, “but nowadays, they’re showing interest and this will boost the local economy.”
In April, the Bangsamoro Airways began operating across the region, catering to passengers in Cotabato City, Zamboanga City and Sulu province. But there are challenges that need to be addressed, Pendatun pointed out.
Among these is the rotational power interruptions that deter investors from coming in. Big cities like Cotabato do not experience power interruptions especially if there
are privately-run electric utility firms.
The BARMM leadership wants to ensure stable power supply in their area of jurisdiction to attract more investors.
The lack of adequate and reliable power supply keeps investors from putting up business enterprises in the region, but Pendatun is hoping the BARMM leadership can address this and enhance the potentials of the entire region as an investment hub.
“What we were able to achieve from 2019 to 2023 in terms of attracting investments is triple that of what the previous ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) generated in its 20-plus years of existence,” the BARMM leader pointed out.
Socio-economic development programs are likely to be further enhanced in BARMM by next year when the peace process marks a milestone when it holds the first BARMM parliamentary election on May 12 based on the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro autonomy forged under the Noynoy Aquino administration in 2012.
Muslim Mindanao deserves good governance that will reduce poverty, facilitate the delivery of vital social services such as education and health to the disadvantaged sectors
However, the 16th Congress, with President Marcos still a senator then, failed to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law when it adjourned in 2016. Republic Act 11054, also known as the Organic Law for the BARMM, was signed into law in July 2018, replacing the ARMM.
The law was ratified by twin plebiscites in February 2019, immediately followed by the creation of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.
The forthcoming BARMM parliamentary elections and the results of the voting will tell us very clearly whether autonomy for Muslim Mindanao will lead to genuine change.
Muslim Mindanao deserves good governance that will reduce poverty, facilitate the delivery of vital social services such as education and health to the disadvantaged sectors, and ensure a brighter future for all Muslim Filipinos in Mindanao. (Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)
The continuing saga of a ‘war dog’: Col. Marantan
By Ramon L. Tomeldan
OFTEN said – and the attribution has been to many – that when the going gets tough, the tough get going.
Col. Hansel Marantan is one tough cop dreaded and hated by organized criminals, but also admired or envied by his colleagues because of his legendary exploits and derring-do attitude.
Now, Marantan is back in the saddle, or on a “hot seat,” with his new post as acting City Director of the Davao City Police Office.
It’s one place where former President Rodrigo Duterte, Vice President Sara Duterte and family hold sway -- reading between the lines, you can make your conclusion.
A battle-scarred officer, Marantan set out for Davao City last week, vowing to “to serve and protect, perform his official duties according to what is right and just, and most importantly heeding what (his) conscience dictates: protect the mandate of the duly elected President.”
Marantan’s designation was issued by Maj. Gen. Sidney S. Hernia of the Directorate for Personnel and Records Management in an undated memorandum.
Law enforcement pundits viewed Marantan’s new designation as “more of a challenge than a trap, being in the pro-
verbial “lion’s den” where he has to face political and public pressures.
Certain media men fondly call Marantan a “man of steel” owing to the titanium implants replacing certain parts of his body --52 metal screws, four bone plates and a replaced knee-- after several clashes with armed criminals left him severely wounded in past major police operations.
Why is it that Marantan almost always gets the difficult or suicide mission, but when controversies arise, the PNP hierarchy is not bold enough to defend their war dog?
Some analysts expected Marantan in the course of his new assignment to enforce the law and cause the arrest of fugitive Pastor Apollo Quiboloy. Marantan’s track record speaks for himself.
During his stint as chief of the Crimi-
WGetting hopes up
ITH a sweep of the alphabet, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stood beside his countrymen in raising their hopes for the years ahead as he reviewed the state of this nation of 115 million aching for solutions to their concerns.
From agriculture to climate change to territorial disputes to a ban by yearend of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) which have spawned crimes to an approved Maritime Zones Act, there is reason to rally behind the President.
Areas mentioned during the State of the Nation Address included the prioritization of local palay production, distribution of seedlings and fertilizers, as well as training to farmers, farming modernization, operations of Kadiwa centers for cheaper agricultural commodities, more support to fishers, and actions to combat agrifishery smuggling,.
The President raised the country’s proactive stance on global climate responsibility, including being the host country of the board of the Loss and
Damage Fund, which seeks to help poor nations cope with costly climate disasters. He discussed current efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and promote renewable energy sources to mitigate the impact of climate change. The President gave the element to his countrymen when he said, without naming any country, the Philippines, which has been harassed in its own exclusive economic zone for months on end, “cannot yield and cannot waver” in territorial disputes.
—“—
The President’s order to the Department of Labor and Employment to look for new jobs for Filipinos who will be affected by the POGO ban deserves praise
His statement came after the Philippines and China agreed to a “provisional arrangement” for resupply missions to Filipino troops stationed at Ayungin Shoal or Second Thomas Shoal which has been the focus of violent clashes in recent months. The President’s announcement of a
THE digital age, while a boon for convenience and connectivity, has also brought with it an obscure world of financial scams that span the globe.
From phishing to smishing, no corner of the world is safe from these sophisticated cybercriminals.
Yet, amidst this rising tide of digital deception, a bastion of defense emerges for the Philippines with the newly enacted Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA). Financial scams are a global plague, striking at the heart of our trust in digital transactions.
The sheer scale and complexity of these schemes are staggering, with billions of dollars siphoned off from unsuspecting victims worldwide.
The Philippines, with its burgeoning digital economy, has not been immune.
Phishing scams, where fraudsters pose as legitimate entities to steal sensitive information, and smishing, a similar trick using SMS, have wreaked havoc on the financial security of countless Filipinos.
In this dire landscape, the AFASA stands as a fortress against such malevolent forces.
Envision the everyday Filipino, laboring tirelessly to save for a brighter future, only to have those dreams shattered by a cunning scammer.
The AFASA aims to protect these dreams by introducing stringent penalties for scammers and empowering the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to act decisively against fraudsters.
This law is not merely a reactive measure but a proactive shield, ensuring that financial transactions across the archipelago are fortified against illicit
nal Investigation and Detection Group for Metro Manila, Marantan led a team that enforced the search warrants on the home and land property of then fugitive Rep. Arnulfo Teves following the Negros Oriental massacre.
In 2008, Marantan solved the assassination case of Abra Rep. Luis Bersamin when he arrested the suspected instigator, then Abra Gov. Vicente Valera.
Also in 2008, Marantan led his men in neutralizing 30 armed men believed to be members of the “Kuratong Baleleng OGC,” a criminal group notorious for bank robberies and hostage-taking.
On account of his tenacious campaign against criminals and terrorists, Marantan was twice promoted on merits, and received from Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla the “PNP Medal of Valor” for his life-saving acts of bravery.
Now a full-fledged colonel ripe for
total ban on all POGOs nationwide by yearend gave administration supporters and critics alike a platform for hope and better days ahead, making crimes hatched in these hubs a memory. His order to the Department of Labor and Employment to look for new jobs for Filipinos who will be affected by the ban deserves praise. He raised the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program’s success in “breaking the cycle of poverty” with around 420,000 families who have graduated from the program, and sought to expand the 4Ps program to benefit the pregnant by capitalizing on the rare window for significantly improving children’s development and quality of life – from mother’s pregnancy to age 2.
On his aggressive Build Better More infrastructure program, the President described the current “railway renaissance” of building more railways to improve public transportation.
His strategy for ensuring water security is heartening as he described the completion of irrigation dams to supplement other bulk water projects, especially in underserved areas.
His announcement of the approval by a bicameral conference committee of the proposed Maritime Zones Act underlined a legislation needed by Filipinos to continue their “intergenerational mandate” of defending the country’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.
Congressman Tieng’s fight vs. financial scams
incursions. The architect of this legislative bastion, Congressman Irwin Tieng, emerges as a formidable champion of consumer protection. Tieng’s relentless advocacy for the AFASA reflects not only his foresight but also a deep-seated commitment to the well-being of his constituents.
In an era where digital vulnerabilities can translate into devastating personal losses, Tieng’s leadership is a clarion call for robust defenses and unwavering vigilance.
Amidst this rising tide of digital deception, a bastion of defense emerges for the Philippines with the newly enacted AntiFinancial Account Scamming Act
Under Tieng’s stewardship, the AFASA promises a litany of benefits for Filipinos. It fosters a culture of vigilance and cooperation among government bodies, financial institutions, and the public.
This tripartite alliance is crucial in building a resilient defense against scammers.
By equipping all stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to detect and thwart fraudulent activities, the AFA-
a promotion, Marantan also holds an impressive educational record. After his graduation from high school as a seminarian at the Society of the Divine Word in Urdaneta City, Marantan pursued and earned a bachelor’s degree in arts and philosophy from the University of Santo Tomas, a master’s degree in public administration and doctorate in public administration with a dissertation focusing on explosives and counter terrorism.
(The colonel and I both hail from Pangasinan and that’s the common thread which connects us.)
Despite his legendary feats and wellgrounded training, Marantan somehow felt being short-changed or deprived of what was due him and his men as “wardogs” of the Philippine National Police, some of his sympathizers say.
“Of the 230,000- strong PNP, why is
SA ensures a unified front in the battle against financial crime.
Moreover, the law restores and bolsters trust in the Philippine financial system. Trust is the bedrock of any economy; without it, the entire edifice of commerce and trade teeters on the brink of collapse.
The AFASA, through its stringent safeguards and collaborative framework, rebuilds this trust, assuring every Filipino that their hard-earned money is secure in the digital domain.
But our work is not done.
To fully realize the promise of the AFASA, continued vigilance and proactive measures are imperative.
The government must ensure the BSP is equipped with the latest technology and resources to stay ahead of cybercriminals.
Public awareness campaigns should be intensified, educating citizens on recognizing and reporting scams. Financial institutions must also play their part, continuously updating their security protocols and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.
In essence, the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act is not just a law; it is a pledge to protect the dreams and aspirations of every Filipino.
Thanks to the visionary leadership of Congressman Irwin Tieng, the Philippines stands better prepared to combat the scourge of financial scams.
As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, let us draw inspiration from this legislative milestone, committed to safeguarding our financial future and fortifying the trust that underpins our economy.
it that only Marantan is always given the difficult or suicide tasks, and when controversies arise, the PNP hierarchy is not bold enough to defend their war-dog,” a sympathizer lamented. In some incidents, Marantan got sacked, even though the charges were based on mere insinuations. Meantime, his upperclassmen were busy lapping up every inch of pleasure in their juicy positions. I have reviewed most of his assignments and there’s none that I can call a “bed of roses.”
Perhaps it’s high time the Palace or the PNP High Command granted this bemedaled officer a little premium in the officers’ line?
I don’t think I’m asking for the moon. (The author served the Manila Standard for 33 years in various capacities from Reporter to Business Editor to Managing Editor until his retirement in 2021).
A SALUTE TO MABINI.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gives a salute during a tour to a museum dedicated to Apolinario Mabini’s
Belmonte is League of Cities head
By Rio N. Araja
QUEZON City Mayor Joy Belmonte has been designated as the acting national president of the League of Cities of the Philippines.
She will temporarily replace suspended Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama. Belmonte is the executive vice president of the LCP.
Binay: SONA highlights social, economic issues
“To ensure the smooth operations and functioning of the league, the National Executive Board (NEB) resolved and recognized Mayor
MAKATI Mayor Abby Binay said the State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “shows us how far we have come in terms of improving the social and economic conditions of the people and where the President intends to bring the country.”
In a statement, Binay said: “I salute the President for acknowledging at the start of his speech the urgent concern of our people. Hinarap nya ang isyu, inilahad ang mga nagawa na nya sa loob ng dalawang taon, at ang mga susunod na hakbang.” Binay also cited the President’s stance on climate change, as well as food security and productivity.
“Balewala ang mga pagsisikap sa food security at productivity ng ating mga magsasaka kung hindi mahaharap ang hamon ng climate change. With the Philippines hosting the Loss and Damage Fund, the President has underscored the need for global solidarity in assisting vulnerable countries rebuild and recover,” Binay said.
Belmonte-Alimurung as the acting national president of the LCP,” the league’s unanimous board resolution stated.
While Rama’s six-month preventive suspension is temporary, it “hinders him from exercising his powers and authority as the mayor, including his representation in the LCP,” the LCP said.
“As such, he is temporarily unable to perform his functions, powers, and
responsibilities In May, the Office of the Ombudsman suspended Rama and seven other city officials for the nonpayment of salaries of several city hall employees. In a 10-page resolution, Ombudsman Samuel Martires said there were sufficient grounds of grave misconduct, conduct unbecoming of a public officer and conduct prejudicial to the best interest committeed by Rama.
IN BRIEF
CHR: Evidence-planting by cops alarming
THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday raised concern over the admission of two police officers of planting evidence in a supposed buy-bust operation against Bryan Laresma at the boundary of San Juan, Batangas, and Tiaong, Quezon on May 28.
“The CHR condemns this act as it not only resulted in an unlawful killing but also violated the fundamental right to life of the victim,” chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc said. “It is imperative that the police officers implicated in this grievous act face the full extent of the law for their actions,” he added.
During a recent executive session in Congress, Mst. Sgt. Juan Macaraig and Sgt. Michie Perez admitted that the money, gun and shabu were planted on Laresma’s body to imply that he was involved in the illegal drug trade. Rio N. Araja
Taguig to close roads due to river festival
THE Taguig City government will implement road closures on Wednesday and Thursday in connection with the annual Taguig River Festival.
“A portion of General Luna Street from Mr. DIY to Global Oil in Barangay Tuktukan, will be temporarily closed from 10 p.m. on July 24 to 10 p.m. on July 25, 2024, for the Taguig River Festival,” the local government stated in its advisory.
Motorists are advised to use alternative routes. Vehicles from Cayetano Boulevard can turn right at Vista Mall/Bagong Kalsada and then right on General Luna Street to reach Manuel L. Quezon Street. For those coming from Bagumbayan, they can turn right and then left to reach Cayetano Boulevard going to Pasig via Bagong Calzada. Joel E. Zurbano
Lower crime rate reported in Western Visayas
ILOILO CITY--Western Visayas has reported a significant drop in crime rates in the first half of 2024, with an 11.68% decrease compared to the same period last year, according to police reports. The region recorded 5,529 crimes this year, down from 6,250 in the same period in 2023.
P/Colonel Arnel Solis, spokesperson for PRO Western Visayas, highlighted that this reduction includes both index and non-index crimes, which form the Peace and Order Index. In the first half of 2024, Western Visayas recorded 1,095 index crimes, a decrease of 229 cases or 23.64% from 1,434 cases in the previous year. Caloy Lozada
Show-cause order against owners of e-jeepney, bus in road rage
By Rio N. Araja
THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a show-cause order against the registered owners of a e-jeepney and a passenger bus in a viral road rage video along España Boulevard in Manila.
LTO-National Capital Region director Roque Verzosa III issued two
separate SCOs to the registered owners of the e-jeepney (NHF 6732) and the passenger bus (UVP 490) to explain in writing why they must not be held liable for violations of at four traffic violations during the incident that was posted on Facebook.
The owners were directed to appear in front of Verzosa in on Aug. 7 and to bring with them their notarized affidavits.
DILG eyes tool to assess buildings
THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Tuesday said it would tap other government agencies and stakeholders in crafting a tool to assess buildings’ vulnerability to earthquakes that would be rolled out in local government units (LGUs).
Speaking at the post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) forum in Pasay City, DILG Undersecretary Marlo Iringan said they are seeking the support of the departments of Science and Technology (DOST), Health (DOH) Education (DepEd), as well as the Philippine Institute of
Civil Engineers and the Association of Structural Engineers of the Philippines for the project.
“We also want to tap CHED (Commission on Higher Education). We want to enlist the assistance and support universities and colleges offering civil engineering courses. The students will help us to assess the status of the building if these are vulnerable to earthquakes. We hope it will be able to come up with a tool by the end of the year to roll out this in local governments in the country,” he said.
LTO chief Vigor D. Mendoza II said he was disappointed and shocked by the behavior shown by the two drivers, citing both vehicles were being used for public transportation.
“I already ordered the LTO-NCR to identify the drivers of the two passenger vehicles. What they did is un-
acceptable and that their bad temper that put the lives of fellow motorists and commuters at risk should not go unpunished,” he said. Based on the video footage, the two vehicles were preparing to leave when the driver of the passenger bus swerved toward the lane of the e-jeepney in an apparent attempt to block the path.
Paris prepares warm welcome, except for rats
PARIS—While the Paris Olympics is set to be a festival of socialising and intermingling, city authorities are keen for visitors not to encounter any of the capital’s notorious furry inhabitants.
Humourously portrayed in the hit animated film “Ratatouille”, the French capital’s abundant rat population is no joke for the city’s residents— and could be an embarrassment as the Olympics spotlight falls on Paris.
“All of the Olympic sites and celebration areas were analysed (for rats) before the Games,” deputy mayor Anne-Claire Boux, who has responsibility for public health, told AFP in an interview.
As well as ordering a deep clean to remove any food residues that might tempt the scurriers from their underground lairs, the mayor’s rodent specialists also worked to close up exit points from the sewers around the sites.
“Where there were areas with lots of rats we put traps in place ahead of the Games,” Boux continued, adding that both mechanical rat-traps and chemical solutions were used to reduce troublesome populations.
The park behind the Eiffel Tower, where the beach volleyball is set to take place, and the Louvre gardens, where the Olympic cauldron is set to burn, are popular picnic spots -- and previously rat infested.
“Ultimately, no-one should aim to exterminate Paris’s rats, and they’re useful in maintaining the sewers,” she added. “The point is that they should stay in the sewers.”
Spruced up Paris vermin, a feature in French literature from “Les Miserables” to “the Phantom of the Opera”, are frequently drawn into a contemporary debate about cleanliness in the French capital.
Current mayor Anne Hidalgo, a Socialist who relies on support from the Greens, is regularly accused by her conservative critics of failing to keep the capital free from the scourges of rubbish, rodents and dog excrement.
A viral social media campaign in 2021 called #SaccageParis (#TrashedParis) led to residents posting pictures of overflowing bins, badly maintained street furniture or overgrown green spaces that hurt the city’s cultivated reputation for elegance. AFP
Macron: France ready to host Paris Olympics
PARIS—President Emmanuel Macron said France was ready to host the Paris Olympics as he visited the Athletes’ Village on Monday, four days before the Games begin.
The Games return to the French capital for the first time since 1924, largely using temporary venues constructed in the centre of the city.
“We are ready and we will be ready throughout the Games,” Macron said.
“We have been working on these Games for years now and we are at the start of a decisive week which on Friday will see the opening ceremony and then the Olympiad which will be held in Paris, 100 years since the last one.”
He added: “This is the fruit of an im-
mense amount of work which has profoundly changed the country, in particular the area” of Seine-Saint-Denis, where the Athletes’ Village is situated.
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach also visited the Village to the north of the French capital, where thousands of athletes and officials are arriving, with up to 14,500 expected there at the peak of the Games.
Comprising 40 different low-rise housing blocks, the complex has been built by employing innovative construction techniques using low-carbon concrete, water recycling and reclaimed building materials.
It was also intended to be free of air conditioning with a natural cooling system, but some Olympic delegations are unconvinced and have ordered around 2,500 portable cooling units for their athletes.
Seine-Saint-Denis, where the main athletics stadium for the Olympics
is also situated, is the poorest area in France and is hoping to reap benefits from the sports extravaganza.
Macron promised the area would not be forgotten after the Olympics.
“I will come back after the Games to see the legacy with you and to see how life has changed,” he said.
Israelis ‘welcome’
Meanwhile, as the Israeli team set off for Paris, France’s foreign minister said they were welcome at the Games after a hard-left member of the French parliament sparked outrage by urging them to stay away because of the conflict in Gaza.
“The Israeli delegation is welcome in France,” Stephane Sejourne said in Brussels ahead of talks with his Israeli counterpart, adding that the call by France Unbowed (LFI) lawmaker Thomas Portes for the country’s exclusion had been “irresponsible and dangerous”.
“We will ensure the security of the delegation,” Sejourne added. AFP
McDonald’s PH celebrates World Bike Day in Iloilo City
AS McDonald’s Philippines takes strides in building communities that share its commitment to caring for the environment, the QSR giant held its biggest yet Tour de McDo in Iloilo City, drawing close to 400 cycling enthusiasts.
The program is part of the fastfood giant’s Green & Good initiative, which aims to implement sustainable solutions in its restaurants, and advocate for sustainable mobility.
“With the rise of cycling as both a means of transportation and recreation, our goal at McDonald’s was clear—be a place where cyclists can safely, and conveniently stop over for their favorite meals. More importantly, we recognize the positive impact of cycling both for the individual, and for the environment. With Tour de McDo, we are able to connect with different cycling communities, and together, advocate for more Filipinos to ride,” said Adi Hernandez, McDonald’s Philippines Assistant Vice President for Corporate Relations & Impact. Tour de McDo is a multi-stage
McDonald’s officials, together with Tour de McDo organizers, are shown here namely (from left) Monica Pinson, Sikad Ta Iloilo; Denise Barrameda, Senior Manager Corporate Communications, McDonald’s Philippines; Adi Hernandez, Assistant Vice President – Corporate Relations & Impact, McDonald’s Philippines; Vic Narciso, Managing Partner, San Ride Bukas; Alan Pagtalunan, Operations Consultant of Choice Gourmet Banquet, Inc.; with Birdie, Hamburglar, and Grimace.
biking event in partnership with San Ride Bukas and Sikad Ta Iloilo that kicked off at McDonald’s Iloilo Business Park in Megaworld Boulevard. Cyclists pedaled through the city’s streets in two categories,
the 15-kilometer route and a more challenging 30-kilometer course. It is the first Tour de McDo to be held in Visayas and in the bike capital of the Philippines.
“We are thankful for the city’s
support to Tour De McDo and admire the example Iloilo City has set in being truly bike-friendly—it was great to see safe, bike-friendly roads (and routes) as well as public spaces for cyclists. We hope this inspires more cities, and businesses across the country to be more bike-friendly, ” Hernandez said. To extend the celebration throughout the month, McDonald’s Philippines brought back the successful Cyclist Meal, an exclusive McDonald’s App offer made available for all weekends of June. Perfect for post-ride meals, cyclists simply had to present the offer on the McDonald’s app to get a Cheesy Eggdesal with Sausage and a Medium McCafé Iced Coffee Original for only P99.
Galvez, Canlas claim golds in Thailand fencing meet
UNIVERSITY of the East high school fencers delivered big for the Philippines as Willa Galvez captured two gold medals and Yuna Canlas added one in the Thailand Fencing Festival Minime and Veterans Championships 2024 held over the weekend at the Diamond Hall in Zeer Rangsit, Thailand.
Galvez, who represented Canlas Fencing, dominated top seed Hei Shun Keung of Hong Kong, 15-8, in the finals of the Under-14 girl’s foil last Saturday – her second gold medal in the same category in international meet just seven months after her breakthrough victory in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
An incoming Grade 8, who turned 13 last July 16, Galvez then added on Sunday the Under-14 girl’s epee with a nail-biting 15-13 win opposite Pawichaya Thongngaram of Thailand in the finals – her first epee gold on foreign soil after settling for a silver in KL last year.
On the other hand, Canlas, an incoming freshman for the Red Warriors, captured the gold medal in Under-12 girl’s epee on the final day of competition Monday after beating Lena Xia of Singapore 10-5 in the finals. She also earned two bronze medals (U-14 and U-12 foil) in the three-day tournament.
The competition followed a tough training camp where Galvez and some 20 other Filipino fencers participated last week in Taiwan – a big help she said as it boosted her confidence after a weeklong process with some of the world-class fencers like former Olympian Ziemek Wojciechowski of Great Britain.
“I’m happy to win. It was perfect timing that after the Taiwan training camp we joined a tournament in Thailand. It gave me confidence and at the same time, I was able to apply the lessons. I’m grateful and thankful to all the UE and CF coaches led by coach Amat Canlas,” said Galvez. Galvez finished with a 4-1 record in the pooling of women’s foil following wins against Yu Wei Chen of Singapore (5-0), Yuvika Subodh Saikhedkar of India (5-1), Xu Shuoyan of China (5-0) and Yuga Fong of Hong Kong (5-2). The only blot in her pool record was a 5-3 defeat to Ella Wang of Australia.
After she got a bye in the Roundof-32 as the No. 2 seeded player in the DE – or Direct Elimination – she then proceeded to beat compatriot Lily Marguerite Juico in the Round-of-16 (15-6), Mia Pimkaew of Thailand in the quarterfinals (15-7) and Canlas in the semifinals (15-5).
MILO, karate strengthen pact to nurture more young Filipino champs
MILO® Philippines renews its partnership with one of its longest-running partners, the Association for the Advancement of Karatedo (AAK) in a partnership reinforcement ceremony held in Makati City, which will continue and scale its efforts to nurture more young Filipino champions through grassroots sports.
The event was led by Veronica Cruz, Senior Vice President and Business Executive Officer for Beverages & Confectionary of Nestlé Philippines, Carlo Sampan, Head of MILO® Sports, Richard Lim, President of AAK and Chino Veguillas, Vice President of AAK. This partnership will provide enhanced support for AAK’s grassroots sports programs across the country.
“This milestone is especially significant as both MILO® and AAK mark their 60th anniversary in the Philippines,” said Cruz.
“The AAK has been an indispensable partner of MILO® in bringing out the inner
champion of every Filipino. Together, we remain committed to inspiring more parents to start their kids’ champion journeys and practice a values-driven life toward success through our programs.”
A partnership spanning more than 35 years, MILO® and AAK have been promoting Karatedo to teach Filipino children valuable lessons such as grit, discipline, and teamwork, which serve as a cornerstone for their growth and success in sports and life.
Under this renewed partnership, MILO® and AAK will continue to offer programs promoting youth and grassroots sports development through its existing initiatives such as the MILO® Sports Clinics and the MILO® AAK Super Karate Kids tournaments which will happen year-round.
“Our continued collaboration with MILO® will only mean that more opportunities await our young aspiring ka-
Scaling
Programs for Champion-Building In a recent effort to nurture more children through sports, MILO® sponsored AAK’s 60th-anniversary event, the Shureido International Karate Championships, held from July 5 to 7 at the SM Mall of Asia. The three-day event gathered nearly 1,500 participants and featured an international youth tournament, allowing young Filipino athletes to compete with international contemporaries. Participants also got a chance to learn from some of the
University of the East fencers (from left) Yuna Canlas and Willa Galvez, and Elise Acuzar show the medals they won for the Philippines representing Canlas Fencing in the Thailand Fencing Festival Minime and Veterans Championships 2024 held in Zeer Rangsit, Thailand.
Shown here are (from left) Chino Veguillas, Vice President of AAK; Richard Lim, President of AAK; Veronica Cruz, Senior Vice President and Business Executive Officer for Beverages & Confectionary of Nestlé Philippines; and Carlo Sampan, Head of MILO® Sports
WEDNESDAY, JULY 24, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
South Cotabato bets shine in Jr PH Golf Tour
Apo opener
DAVAO—Rainier Tagwalan edged out Adrian Bisera in a close finish in separate flights at the ICTSI Junior PGT Mindanao Series here yesterday, bucking a double bogey on No. 8 to card a 76 and wrest a one-stroke lead in the boys’ 16-18 category.
Competing at the demanding Apo Golf and Country Club course for the first time at the JPGT, Tagwalan, hailing from South Cotabato, overcame a rough start of three bogeys in the first 11 holes from the back, birdying the par-5 third hole but ending with a wet double bogey on the eighth, concluding his round with two 38s.
In the following flight, Bisera initially seized the lead with a birdie on the first hole, followed by five pars after a backside 39 marked by a pitch-in eagle on No. 10 but marred by a triple bogey on the 14th.
But the youngest of the Bisera golfing clan, Adrian faltered in the final stretch, bogeying the last three holes for a 77, enabling Tagwalan to secure the lead in what is expected to be a highly competitive tournament, spread over 72 holes and featuring some of the siblings of professional golfers.
Aldrien Gialon, brother of Philippine Golf Tour player Zanieboy, also made an early bid with a 78 at the softened layout, while, Kenly Wacan from Davao missed joining Tagwalan at the top after a triple bogey on the par-5 No. 6, finishing with a 79.
“I found it challenging and nervewracking as it was my first time playing at Apo and JPGT,” said the 16-year-old Tagwalan in Pilipino, who developed his skills at the Brittannika Golf Course in Tupi, South Cotabato.
In the 10-12 category, Jared Saban and Brittany Tamayo, who also call the Brittannika course their home, led their respective groups. Jared, son of touring pro Elmer, scored an 85, leading his cousin Laurence Saban by six strokes.
US-based GM Sadorra is PH Olympiad team’s top board player
UNITED States-based Grandmaster Julio Catalino Sadorra will make a return as the country’s top board player in the 44th World Chess Olympiad set Sept. 10 to 23 in Budapest, Hungary.
The 37-year-old Sadorra was recently named by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines into the Budapest-bound national team that also has reigning national champion International Master Daniel Quizon, GM John Paul Gomez and IMs Paolo Bersamina and Jan Emmanuel Garcia with GM Eugene Torre as coach.
Marcos cites grassroots sports, Paris Olympians
PRESIDENT Ferdinand
‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. commended the country’s national grassroots sports program and the revival of sports participation across all ages following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during his third State of the Nation at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.
“Grassroots and sports-for-all programs are back in the mainstream catering to Filipinos of all ages,” PBBM said.
He emphasized that these programs not only provide a platform for identifying new athletes to represent the country internationally but also contribute to promote health and wellness, particularly among the youth.
The President mainly expressed gratitude to the recent hosts of the country’s largest grassroots sports competition, Palarong Pambansa, namely Marikina City and Cebu City.
“As we speak, 28 of our finest athletes are competing in Paris now for the glory of the Philippines” the President added.
Beyond discovering national pride, these grassroots sports programs also prioritize the health and wellbeing of citizens, especially the youth.
Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann thanked the President for his dedication to enhancing sports development from grassroots to elite levels.
Bachmann highlighted the agency’s continuous efforts throughout the year to implement various programs benefiting young athletes, women, the indigenous sector, and our national training pool, aligning with the administration’s drive for inclusive governance.
He also emphasized ongoing upgrades in sports facilities to ensure better equipment and resources for all athletes in their pursuit for a winning journey.
PSC remains instrumental in advancing the Bagong Pilipinas governance of the Marcos Administration. We are committed to extending government services across the country, ensuring that our policies benefit all sports stakeholders and support every aspiring athlete in achieving their goals for their families and the nation,” Bachmann said.
SMART/MVPSF national taekwondo lures rising top jins
EXPECT another fast and exciting action as the country’s rising stars slug it out with seasoned fighters from the Big City in the 2024 SMART/ MVPSF National Taekwondo Championships on July 27-28 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium
Sadorra is expected to man the top board again after taking up that role in his first three Olympiads in Tromso, Norway in 2014, Baku, Azerbaijan in 2016 and Batumi, Georgia in 2018. He skipped the 2022 edition in Chennai, India as well as two online staging of the same meet in 2020 and 2021 due to his commitments with family as well as with UT Dallas chess team where he is the coach.
“We’re thrilled to have him (Sadorra) back,” said NCFP chief executive officer GM Jayson Gonzales. The women’s team, for its part, will have WGM Janelle Frayna, WIM Jan Jodilyn Fronda and Woman FIDE Master Ruelle Canino—the reigning national women’s champion.
Shania Mae Mendoza, Kylen Joy Mordido, Bernadette Galas, Marie Antoinette San Diego, Allaney Jia Doroy and Cherry Ann Mejia are currently contesting the last two berths in a double-round robin tournament at the PACE in Mindanao Ave, Quezon City.
The Philippine Taekwondo Association said the grandest team event competition of the year has attracted close to 2,000 participants all over the country including chapters from the 20 different regions together with the BARMM,CAR, CARAGA and NCR, all branches of AFP including PNP. Several members of the victorious national team that took part in two major tournaments in Korea recently will also showcase their stuff in the event backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee and Milo.
Puerto Princesa to kick
THE IRONMAN 70.3 is set to return to the stunning tropical paradise of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, kicking off the IRONMAN-branded racing season in the Philippines for 2025.
The event is slated for March 2, 2025, and preparations are already in full swing to ensure a smooth, safe and spectacular race. Registration is now open. For details, visit IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa or contact Sai Aliman-Mayol, Philippine Events, IRONMAN Group, at sai. mayol@ironman.com.
Puerto Princesa, renowned for its pristine natural beauty and commitment to preserving its environment, previously hosted this prestigious event back-toback in 2022 and 2023. John Alcala and Singapore’s Ling Er Choo claimed the inaugural championship titles in 2022, while Satar Salem and Leyann Ramo took top honors last year.
Mayor Lucilo Bayron, who is per-
sonally overseeing the preparations, expressed his excitement and honor to host the event again.
“On behalf of Puerto Princesa City, I am very honored that our city paradise will host the third staging of IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa. The global brand known for the highest quality of event organizing will be hosted by the city with unwavering support. We hope the athletes will enjoy their visit here and be amazed by the natural splendor of the Philippines,” he said.
Puerto Princesa, the capital city of Palawan, is often lauded as the cleanest and greenest city in the Philippines. It offers a unique blend of urban amenities surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, including stunning beaches and untouched forested hills. The city is also home to one of the country’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, further enhancing its appeal to both participants and spectators.
Major school leagues including UAAP and NCAA will also field their best fighters in the event where five players including two alternates will comprise a team in both the Advance and Novice divisions. There are four categories in each division namely: Seniors, Juniors, Cadet and Grade school (male and female).
Elimination round starts at 9 a.m. with the opening ceremony highlighted by a performance from the PH Demonstration Team starts at 1 p.m. As in the past, the PTA will utilize the Protector and Scoring System (PSS) and will also have an IVR (Instant Video Replay) system to eliminate human error.
Martial arts enthusiasts and sports aficionados are invited to witness this event, especially children who are interested to learn this popular sport.
o ‘25 IRONMAN season
The player in blue armor delivers a side kick to the face of his rival
return of the IRONMAN 70.3 to Puerto Princesa promises to showcase
natural beauty of Puerto Princesa.
Grandmaster Julio Catalino Sadorra
The 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 in Puerto Princesa promises to be bigger and better than ever. With a breathtaking backdrop of pristine beaches and lush landscapes, participants can expect an enhanced race experience that combines athletic challenge with natural beauty. “The
Jr.
Rainier Tagwalan overcame a rough start by birdying the par-5 third and concluding his round with two 38s. Manny Marcelo
Cebu Pacific expects to finalize $24-b Airbus deal in third quarter
CEBU Pacific said Tuesday it expects to finalize the $24-billion (P1.4-trillion) deal with Airbus to acquire up to 152 A321 new aircraft by the third quarter of 2024.
The airline unit of the Gokongwei Group earlier signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney, covering firm orders for up to 102 A321neo and 50 A320neo family purchase rights.
Cebu Pacific selected Pratt & Whitney GTFTM engines to power the future aircraft.
“The order is designed to give Cebu Pacific the flexibility to choose between the A321neo and A320neo aircraft as needed, helping us adapt to market changes,” Cebu Pacific chief executive Michael Szucs said.
“This deal is a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to make air travel more accessible and affordable for everyone while supporting the Philippine growth
story,” he said.
Airbus said the MOU is a testament to the airline’s confidence in its products and a positive signal for the aviation industry’s recovery.
“We thank Cebu Pacific for its ongoing confidence in Airbus and its products. These latest generation aircraft will enable the carrier to reduce its operating costs and continue to offer low fares in a competitive market environment,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, executive vice president for sales of commercial aircraft at Airbus.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the airline as it builds on its position as one of the leading low-cost carriers in the Asia- Pacific region,” he said.
Pratt & Whitney expressed gratitude for CEB’s continued confidence in the GTF engine, which the airline initially selected in 2012. Darwin G. Amojelar
PROGRAMMING. National Economic and Development Authority
Balisacan (second from left) co-chairs the kick-off
operations
Secretary
for 2024 and suggested adjustments to ensure a higher level of implementation readiness for these projects.
Economic managers predict 6% growth in second quarter
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE government’s economic managers on Tuesday projected a 6-percent
“I hope it’s 6 percent. It’s most likely,” Finance Secretary Ralph Recto told reporters at the sidelines of the post-State of the Nation Address forum.
“Still, number one will be consumption because that’s the biggest part. I mean, household consumption is number one, and that’s supported by what we see on bank lending and credit cards, in spite of high interest rates and government
consumption,” Recto said. Recto, who is also a member of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) Monetary Board, said the government is on track to reducing interest rates this year, which is “the most important thing that will support our growth,” he added.
The MB earlier maintained the overnight borrowing rate at 6.50 percent and the overnight deposit and lending facilities at 6.0 percent and
7.0 percent, respectively.
National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan also forecast a 6-percent expansion in the second quarter, following the 5.7-percent growth in the first quarter.
“It’s probably close to at least the lower end of the target,” he said. The government targets a 6 percent to 7 percent GDP growth for 2024.
Meanwhile, Recto said utilizing the unused and idle funds held by government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) such as PhilHealth and Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. would help the economy grow by “more or less 0.8 percent.”
“This means that we can easily achieve our 6 percent to 6.5 percent
THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) supported the government’s proactive measures to boost the investment climate, particularly through the highlyanticipated CREATE MORE bill.
This comes on the heels of the government’s ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), signaling a shift towards attracting more sustainable and beneficial investments.
PEZA director-general Tereso Panga said the CREATE MORE bill, designed to enhance the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (CREATE) law, would be instrumental in propelling economic growth.
“We are thankful for the government’s recognition of CREATE’s benefits and the assurance that the CREATE
By Alena Mae S. Flores
FASTER SERVICES. Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) and Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (AFI), in partnership with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), turn over the inaugural PinasBilis eBOSS Package to the local government unit (LGU) of Lapu-Lapu City at Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort. Attending the event are (from left) Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV) corporate external relations manager Fatima Mateo, AEV corporate external relations vice president Anthony Noel, AboitizPower Distribution Utilities chief operating officer Anton Perdices, Rep. Cynthia Chan, Mayor Junard Chan, ARTA Secretary Ernesto Perez, AEV corporate external relations vice president Judee Aguila and Aboitiz InfraCapital head of external affairs Christopher Camba. The initiative aims to eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies and ensure faster service delivery.
MORE bill will be a priority and passed into law this year,” Panga said.
He said the CREATE MORE bill would address the pain points experienced by locators, including the imposition of unnecessary tariffs by local government units (LGUs).
“The removal of these tariffs, coupled with the incentives under CREATE MORE, will create a more conducive business environment and attract long-term foreign direct investments,” Panga said.
PEZA expects the CREATE MORE bill to not only streamline tax incentives, but also usher in parity with the benefit packages offered by neighboring countries, making the Philippines a more competitive investment destination. Othel V. Campos
“As
“NGCP is
to
With this, attention can now be properly trained at ensuring enough investments in the generation sector to meet increasing demand,” NGCP said.
growth rate this year,” he said. Recto said the unused money from GOCCs would create more than 600,000 jobs if used for government social and infrastructure projects. He said that the unused funds from PhilHealth and PDIC amounted to roughly P200 billion.
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Tourism (DOT) aims to double visitor arrivals from major markets like Australia, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea and the US, while anticipating the implementation of an e-visa system for Indian travelers by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) within the year.
“We hope the DFA will implement the e-visa systems ASAP since we have a target to deliver. We are chasing the 7.7 million [visitor arrivals] by the end of the year,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco at the sidelines of the postSONA discussions. The DOT has been advocating for more liberalized visa policies, given the growing trend of e-visa facilitation in the ASEAN region.
Frasco acknowledged the challenge of reaching the 7.7-million target in 2024 without the full opening of the country in terms of seamless entry. She said among the positive developments that could contribute to the goal are the discussions with the Indian government on visa policies and the successful air talks to explore charter flights and group travel options.
The DOT, in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), expects to see an increase in flights from India this year.
COUNTRY
(NEDA)
Arsenio
meeting of the Asian Development Bank’s 2024 country programming mission (CPM) alongside ADB country director Pavit Ramachandran on July 19, 2024 at the NEDA Central Office in Mandaluyong City. The ADB presented updates on the progress of its lending
being prepared
PH stocks rise despite POGO ban impact on property firms
PHILIPPINE stocks rebounded Tuesday despite the property and gaming stocks sell-off after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. imposed a ban on all Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO).
The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index rose 41.07 points, or 0.61 percent, to close at 6,753.12, while the broader all-shares index added 38.50 points, or 1.07 percent, to end at 3,638.48 COL Financial Inc. property analyst Richard Laneda said the ban on POGO would not have a significant impact on the listed property developers as their exposure to POGO significantly decreased since the peak in 2019.
“For the listed companies under our coverage, the direct impact of the POGO ban will be limited,” Laneda said. He said POGO exposure in terms of total gross leasable area (GLA) of listed property firms was very minimal, citing data from listed companies.
“Property companies’ current valuation suggest any downside reaction will be limited. On a positive note, this resolves a long-standing issue for the industry since its 2018 inception,” Laneda said.
The property sector declined 1.62 percent as Ayala Land Inc. dropped 0.94 percent to close at P31.60, while SM Prime Holdings Inc. went down by 2.45 percent to P29.90.
JennifferB. Austria
Shang Properties set to build tallest QC tower
By Jenniffer B. Austria
High-end property developer Shang Properties Inc. (SPI) on Tuesday unveiled plans to build the country’s tallest residential condominium called Shang Summit in South Triangle, Quezon City which would generate P50 billion in sales.
SPI executive vice president for commercial Maria Rochelle Diaz said during the project launch the two-tower Shang Summit, which would offer nearly 2,000 residential units, would also be the company’s largest development. Diaz said the first tower would of-
fer 1,020 units of studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, three-bedroom and penthouse units selling from P10.4 million to P182 million, while the second tower would have 900 units.
She said the project received positive response from buyers and investors, with inquiries coming
ahead of the official launch. Diaz said Quezon City is rife for this development as buyers of SPI’s previous projects were mostly from Quezon City.
“If you look at it, it’s very competitive versus what the market has been offering in Quezon City given the fact that this is a luxurious development with all of the amenities. So, we think that this is the right price and a good value for money,” Diaz said Units will be ready for turnover to buyers by 2030.
Diaz said the company chose Quezon City for its next project, given its rapid development of the city and the strong demand for residential projects in the area.
SMPH marks 30th listing anniversary
SM PRIME Holdings Inc., one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, celebrated on Tuesday its 30th listing anniversary as a public company through a ceremonial bell-ringing at the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) Tower in Taguig City.
SM Prime’s board and key officers led by chairman Henry Sy Jr, vice chairman and independent director Amando Tetangco Jr., chairman of the executive committee Hans Sy and president Jeffrey Lim attended the event.
Also present were the members of the board and management of the PSE headed by its chairman Jose Pardo, president Ramon Monzon, director Vivian Yuchengco and vice president Roel Refran.
“We are beyond grateful to reach a remarkable milestone in SM Prime’s history as we celebrate our 30th listing anniversary as a public company. Guided by the vision of our founder, Mr. Henry Sy, SM Prime was incorporated to build and operate world-class one-stop shops for shopping, dining, amusement, and entertainment in the Philippines. Over the years, SM Prime has continued to achieve new heights as an integrated property developer,” Lim said.
SM Prime, attesting to its commitment to excellence, has been recognized by various entities for its strong front in corporate governance. The Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) awarded SM Prime with the Five Golden Arrow Awards for its proactive engagement in corporate governance best practices.
The company also received numerous recognitions from the 14th Asian Excellence Awards by the Corporate Governance Asia, as well as a Gold Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the recent FinanceAsia Awards. Jenniffer B. Austria
AboitizPower’s first-half profit dropped 4% to P17.1b on depreciation costs
By Alena Mae S. Flores
ABOITIZ Power Corp. said Tuesday it recorded a 4-percent decline in its first-half net income to P17.1 billion from P17.8. billion a year ago due to the depreciation and interest for GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. AboitizPower said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange that excluding forex and derivative gains, core net income in the first half would be P17.1 billion, compared to P17.8 billion in the same period last year.
“Our financial performance in the first half of 2024 is a testament to our strategic focus on operational efficiency and adaptability to market conditions,” AboitizPower president and chief executive Danel Aboitiz said.
The company did not disclose its revenues for the period but said earnings before taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) grew 8 percent year-on-year to P36.3 billion amid higher generation portfolio margins.
JAC Motors bares plan to open six new dealerships as part of PH expansion
By Othel V. Campos
JAC Motors Philippines, an Astara
value and service to our customers,” said JAC Motors Philippines brand head Tonette Lee.
JAC signed strong partnerships with financial institutions to offer a range of vehicles that are accessible, while packed with premium features at competitive price points.
“Our goal is to make our vehicles more accessible to the Filipino customer. With our current product lineup, including the highly anticipated JS6 and JS8 PRO, we are confident more customers will appreciate and choose JAC for their mobility needs,” Lee said.
This also resulted in 6-percent EBITDA growth in the second quarter to P19.9 billion from P18.7 billion in the same period in 2023.
“The growth in EBITDA, fueled by improved margins and strategic business expansion, positions us for continued success in support of the country’s economic growth and prosperity,” Aboitiz said.
AboitizPower said it generation and retail supply business EBITDA reached P33 billion, or 10 percent higher than in the same period in
2023, driven by higher portfolio margins and energization of the company’s Cayanga and Laoag solar plants. Energy sold in the first half reached 17,758 gigawatt-hours (gWh). Meanwhile, AboitizPower’s distribution business posted an EBITDA of P4.2 billion, or 16 percent lower than the P5 billion in the same period in 2023 mainly due to the favorable timing of pass through charges due to the steep decline in fuel prices in that year.
BUSINESS
Digital transactions increased to over 50% of retail payments
By Ralph Harvey Rirao
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Tuesday it surpassed the target of digitalizing 50 percent of retail payments volume in the Philippines under the Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap 2018–2023.
It said that based on the 2023 Report on E-Payments Measurement, the share of digital payment transactions to total monthly retail payments in the country grew from 42.1 percent in 2022 to 52.8 percent in 2023.
DTI proposes amendments to IP Code
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will propose amendments to the Intellectual Property Code (IPC) of the Philippines to support the country’s startup ecosystem and fortify the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR).
“To support startups, we need a strong intellectual property law. We have an existing law. I’m going to present the proposed amendments to the President soon,” said DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual at the postSONA 2024 economic discussions Tuesday.
The proposed amendments seek to modernize the IP framework, enhance enforcement against online piracy and intensify IP education efforts, creating a safer digital landscape that fosters innovation and economic growth.
Pascual emphasized the crucial role of startups in driving innovation and technology adoption in the economy.
The DTI is leading the charge in supporting startups through various programs including incubation, development and entrepreneurship advance (IDEA), accelerating development, valuation and corporate entrepreneurship (ADVANCE) and global acceleration program (GAP).
The GAP aims to provide startups with global market access and financing opportunities. The DTI is supporting over 130 startups across diverse fields, with a particular focus on technology-driven solutions in architecture, fintech, edutech and other sectors.
It teamed up with the Asian Development Bank to establish the national innovation gateway, a hub that will offer space and support for startups, enabling them to contribute to economic growth and job creation.
“We take pride in this achievement as proof that our pursuit of a cash-lite economy has consistently been progressing. We owe this to our citizens who are the foremost beneficiaries of a safe, efficient, and inclusive digital
payments system. As we serve their payment needs and deepen financial inclusion, we are ready to bring digital finance to new heights,” said BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr.
The latest e-payments measurement also showed that the share of monthly digital payments to total transactions climbed to 55.3 percent in 2023 from 40.1 percent in 2022.
The BSP said the main contributors to the rise in e-payments were merchant payments, which accounted for 64.9 percent of monthly digital payments volume, person-to-person transfers at
19.3 percent and business-to-business supplier payments at 6.1 percent. This is consistent with the growth in ownership of transaction accounts, which are mostly e-money accounts that are increasingly used for payments.
It said that with the country’s progress in digital payments adoption, the BSP, in partnership with the payment industry, is strategically positioned to advance digital payments and to empower Filipino businesses and consumers into becoming more active contributors to economic growth.
ABS-CBN’s YouTube shows post 85% rise in
watch time
By Darwin G. Amojelar
ABS-CBN Corp. said Tuesday its digital footprint continues to expand as more Filipinos turn to YouTube for their daily news and entertainment.
The broadcast network said that since 2020, the watch time on its YouTube channel has surged by an average of 85 percent yearly.
ABS-CBN said its shows on YouTube hit 554.9 million watch time hours on smart TVs. Kapamilya Online Live, which livestreams ABS-CBN’s programs 24/7 in Asia, Australia, Europe and New Zealand, accounts for 61 percent or 539.8 million live viewers from the said territories who watch ABSCBN content on YouTube using their smart TVs. Viewers get their daily dose of news and entertainment on Kapamilya Online Live by watching the nightly newscast of “TV Patrol,” “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” “Pamilya Sagrado” and “High Street.” Kapamilya Online Live, which launched in 2020, offers livestreaming and on-demand viewing of the latest episodes of various ABS-CBN shows in and outside of the Philippines via the ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube channel.
Energy think tank pushes changes in EPIRA guidelines, instead of new law
By Alena Mae S. Flores
ENERGY think tank Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) said Tuesday amending the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) of 2001 is not warranted at this time.
“Instead, the most pressing energy issues faced by Filipinos can be more effectively and swiftly addressed by amending the implementing rules and regulations and updating the circulars that implement EPIRA provisions,” ICSC said.
The group also called for the abolition of the automatic fuel cost pass-through provisions in power contracts, which they said burdened consumers financially for years.
“The administration’s progress in enhancing national energy infrastructure, including notable improvements in transmission lines, is a positive development. Now, the next step is to further modernize the grid, making it more flexible and distributed by integrating indigenous and renewable energy sources, ensuring that the country’s power system fits the energy needs of Filipinos,” it said.
ICSC also welcomed efforts to help ease the payments of electric costs for consumers but said “these remain temporary, band-aid solutions.”
“While having sustainable, reasonably-priced, and reliable power for all Filipinos remains a
commitment in this year’s SONA, what we ultimately need is to source power from indigenous and readily available sources, and to immediately move away from a baseload-centric, fossil-fuel centered power system,” it said. The ICSC also called on the Marcos administration to
prioritize and invest in climate action as part of the country’s better development pathway, including making climate finance available and accessible across all sectors and communities; accelerating the transition towards indigenous, renewable energy sources; and building safer, more inclusive infrastructure for public transport.
IN BRIEF
Maduro lashes out at foreign media
CARACAS – Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro, seeking reelection amid claims of opposition suppression, on Monday lashed out at international media, including Agence France-Presse (AFP), accusing them of being “hitmen of lies.”
“They’ve tried to make us invisible a thousand times, now the operation is run by hitmen, the hitmen of lies, the EFE agency in Spain, the AFP agency, the AP agency, CNN and several television stations here,” he said at a rally in San Cristobal in the western Tachira state.
Just days ahead of the July 28 presidential vote, Maduro claimed the media censor and “manipulate” information about his campaign, to which access has been limited. AFP
Bosses resign while firm probes 80 deaths
TOKYO – The chairman and president of a major Japanese dietary supplement maker announced their resignation on Tuesday, as the company probes 80 deaths potentially linked to tablets meant to lower cholesterol.
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical is at the center of a health scare linked to its overthe-counter tablets containing red yeast rice, which is fermented with a mould culture.
Medical studies say red yeast rice or “beni koji” can improve cholesterol levels but also warn of a risk of organ damage depending on the ingredient’s chemical make-up.
A company statement said president Akihiro Kobayashi and chairman Kazumasa Kobayashi were leaving their posts. Both men belong to the firm’s founding family.
The decision was made “to clarify executive responsibility over a series of actions by our company related to the ‘beni koji’ issue,” Kobayashi Pharmaceutical said. Red yeast rice has been used in food, alcoholic drinks and folk medicine for centuries around East Asia. AFP
Crashed Japan navy choppers found
TOKYO – Japan’s navy has located on the seabed the wreckage of two helicopters that crashed more than three months ago, killing eight crew members.
The SH-60K helicopters, each crewed by four people, were conducting submarine location drills off the Izu Islands in the Pacific Ocean in April when they collided.
To date, only one body has been found while the other seven were declared dead in June by the Maritime Self-Defense Forces after a fruitless search operation.
A deep-sea probe by a national research institute that began this month led to the discovery of the two aircraft “on the seabed near the site of the crash”, according to a navy statement released Monday.
“The seabed investigation is continuing, and we are assessing whether pulling up the bodies of the aircraft will be possible”, it said.
While cognizant of the proximity to each other, the two helicopters “never attempted to avoid each other until the moment of the collision,” suggesting lapses in standard lookout practices, a defense ministry report said earlier this month. AFP
out of nearly 4,000 -in order to decisively secure the Democratic presidential nomination during voting in the coming weeks. AFP
Bangladesh arrest total approaches 1,200
DHAKA – The number of arrests in days of violence in Bangladesh approached the 1,200 mark in an AFP tally on Tuesday, after protests over employment quotas sparked widespread unrest.
At least 174 people have died, including several police officers, according to a separate AFP count of victims reported by police and hospitals.
What began as demonstrations against politicised admission quotas for sought-after government jobs snowballed last week into some of the worst unrest of Prime Minister Sheikh Ha-
sina’s tenure.
A curfew was imposed and soldiers deployed across the South Asian country, and a nationwide internet blackout drastically restricted the flow of information, upending daily life for many.
On Sunday, the Supreme Court pared back the number of reserved jobs for specific groups, including the descendants of “freedom fighters” from Bangladesh’s 1971 liberation war against Pakistan.
The student group leading the demonstrations suspended its protests Monday for 48 hours, with its leader saying they had not wanted reform “at the expense of so much blood.”
The restrictions remained in place Tuesday after the army chief said the situation had been brought “under control”.
There was a heavy military presence
in Dhaka, with bunkers set up at some intersections and key roads blocked with barbed wire.
But more people were on the streets, as were hundreds of rickshaws.
“I did not drive rickshaws the first few days of curfew, But today I didn’t have any choice,” rickshaw driver Hanif told AFP.
“If I don’t do it, my family will go hungry.”
The head of Students Against Discrimination, the main group organising the protests, told AFP in his hospital room Monday that he feared for his life after being abducted and beaten, and the group said Tuesday at least four of its leaders were missing, asking authorities to “return” them by the evening.
The authorities’ response to the protests has been widely criticised, with Bangladeshi Nobel Peace Prize laure-
BEIJING – Hamas announced Tuesday it had signed an agreement in Beijing with other Palestinian organisations including rivals Fatah to work together for “national unity”, with China describing it as a deal to rule Gaza together once the war ends.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who hosted senior Hamas official Musa
Abu Marzuk, Fatah envoy Mahmud al-Aloul and emissaries from 12 other Palestinian groups, said they had agreed to set up an “interim national reconciliation government” to govern post-war Gaza.
“Today we sign an agreement for national unity and we say that the path to completing this journey is national uni-
Taiwan’s annual war games cut back by fast approaching Typhoon Gaemi
HUALIEN – Taiwan cancelled some drills in its annual war games as Typhoon Gaemi barrelled towards the island on Tuesday, expected to bring heavy rains and strong winds when it makes landfall later this week.
The Han Kuang exercises, which started Monday, are held every year across Taiwan to train its armed forces as China ramps up military pressure on the democratic island, which Beijing claims as part of its own territory.
But Gaemi -- currently categorized as a medium-strength typhoon by the Central Weather Administration -- is expected to impact Taiwan beginning Wednesday, and could make landfall in the island’s northeast. Speaking to media on Tuesday at an airbase in eastern Hualien, defence ministry spokesman Sun Li-fang said the military will make “flexible adjustments based on the weather conditions in our exercise missions.” AFP
ty. We are committed to national unity and we call for it,” Abu Marzuk said after meeting Wang and the other envoys.
The announcement comes more than nine months into a war sparked by Hamas’s October attack on southern Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,197 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures. AFP
ate Muhammad Yunus urging “world leaders and the United Nations to do everything within their powers to end the violence” in a statement.
The respected 83-year-old economist is credited with lifting millions out of poverty with his pioneering microfinance bank but earned the enmity of Hasina, who has accused him of “sucking blood” from the poor.
“Young people are being killed at random every day,” Yunus told AFP. “Hospitals do not reveal the number of wounded and dead.”
Diplomats in Dhaka also questioned the government’s actions, with US Ambassador Peter Haas telling the foreign minister he had shown a one-sided video at a briefing to diplomats.
Government officials have repeatedly blamed the protesters and opposition for the unrest. AFP
BEIJING – Ukraine’s foreign minister was in China Tuesday for talks on how officials there might help end the war with Russia, whose ties with Beijing have grown stronger since the conflict began.
China presents itself as a neutral party in the war and says it is not sending lethal assistance to either side, unlike the United States and other Western nations. However, its deepening “no limits” partnership with Russia has led NATO members to brand it a “decisive enabler” of Moscow’s war, which Beijing has never condemned.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba’s visit until Friday is his first since the outbreak of the war in Feb. 2022.
Kyiv said Kuleba’s visit would focus on “ways to stop Russian aggression” as well as “China’s possible role in achieving a sustainable and just peace”. AFP
WAR GAMES. Taiwan’s Defense Minister Wellington Koo (center) gestures as he arrives at an air force base during
of Taiwan’s
Biyaya leads mission for animal care in PH
IN BRIEF
RCBC’s 5th Best Bank for Digital award
RIZAL Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) has been named ‘Best Bank for Digital’ by Euromoney for the fifth consecutive year and ‘Best Bank for SMEs’. Selected from hundreds of global banks, RCBC won the prestigious title in a highly competitive year.
“Our customers are the reason behind RCBC’s success. We owe all these accolades to them,” said RCBC President and CEO Eugene Acevedo.
RCBC’s innovative digital solutions include RCBC Pulz, RCBC ATM Go, and RCBC DiskarTech, which have expanded services globally and connected rural areas to the global economy. RCBC Pulz became the first Philippine bank solution to recognize international mobile numbers for onboarding, while RCBC DiskarTech enhanced remittance services for underserved Filipinos. RCBC ATM Go achieved 100% coverage of all provinces and cities in the Philippines.
IPOPHL clarifies scope for mathematical formulas
THE Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) addressed the recent claims of a Filipino teacher solving the Goldbach conjecture and the twin prime conjecture, long-standing mathematical challenges. IPOPHL expressed pride in the potential achievement, which could elevate the country’s reputation in mathematics.
However, IPOPHL clarified that under the Intellectual Property Code of 1997, mathematical formulas are not protected by copyright or patents. Section 175 of Republic Act 8293 states that ideas, methods, and concepts cannot be copyrighted, while Section 22 excludes scientific theories and mathematical methods from patent protection.
IPOPHL emphasized that mathematical formulas, as facts, fall under the public domain and cannot be protected unless expressed uniquely. Manuscripts presenting such formulas can be copyrighted. IPOPHL encouraged creators to register their works with the Bureau of Copyright and Related Rights to secure certificates of copyright recordal. This ensures proper acknowledgment and protection of their intellectual contributions.
Key protein in aggressive prostate cancer identified
ACCORDING to the World Health Organization, prostate cancer is the third most common cancer among Filipino men, with almost 10,000 cases diagnosed in 2022. In severe cases, it can develop into an aggressive type called castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), which can further progress into neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), the most fatal form.
A pioneering study by Romie Angelo Azur, Kevin Christian Olarte, Weand Ybañez, Alessandria Maeve Ocampo, and Dr. Pia Bagamasbad from the UP Diliman College of Science identified a key protein, CYB561, that contributes to this progression. They found that CYB561 activates specific growth factors and manages iron levels, helping cancer cells thrive even without male hormones. Their findings, published in PLOS One, suggest that targeting CYB561 could lead to new treatments for CRPC and NEPC. The team hopes to experiment further on animal
Estancia hosts launch of Surge for Life
By Jasper Valdez
IN A glittering event that marked a milestone in the fitness industry, Surge Fitness Lifestyle celebrated the grand opening of its Estancia branch on July 13, 2024. The evening was highlighted by the unveiling of “Surge for Life,” a groundbreaking premium membership package designed to promote long-term health and wellness.
The Surge for Life member-
Maynilad offers desludging for customers
ship offers an exclusive package where members pay a one-time fee of P100,000 and a monthly fee of P1,499 for ten years. This innovative membership promises inflation protection, exclusive access to state-of-the-art facilities, unlimited group exercise classes, and numerous corporate perks from over 100 partners.
Members also receive unique merchandise, free services like 3D body scans, and special discounts. For a
WEST Zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services, Inc. (Maynilad) is offering septic tank cleaning services to its residential and semi-business customers this July in select parts of Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Manila, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Pasay, Quezon City, Valenzuela, and Cavite Province at no extra cost. Maynilad’s sanitation program is one of the company’s efforts to lessen pollution loading into Metro Manila’s river systems. “We ask our customers to avail of this service, as it will help to protect community health and the environment,” said Maynilad Chief Operating Officer Randolph T. Estrellado.
Customers residing in Barangay 1, 10, 81, 82, 84 to 88, 90 to 95, 97 to 99, 101 to 103, 105, 106, 108 to110 in Caloocan; Brgy. Pamplona 1 and 3, Pulang Lupa Dos, and Talon 3 in Las Piñas; Brgy. Catmon, Maysilo, and Tugatog in Malabon; Brgy. Putatan and Sucat in Muntinlupa; Brgy. Bagumbayan North, Bangculasi, Daang-hari, San Rafael Village, Sipac-Almacen, Navotas East and West, and Tanza in Navotas; Brgy. Don Bosco and San Martin De Porres in Parañaque; Brgy. Batasan Hills, Bagong Silangan, Capri, Commonwealth, Gulod, Holy Spirit, and San Agustin in Quezon City; and Brgy. Balangkas, Lingunan, Mabolo, Mapulang Lupa, and Punturin in Valenzuela City may avail of Maynilad’s desludging service. Moreover, some Maynilad customers in Cavite Province, particularly in Brgy. Aniban 2, 4, and 5, Mambog 1, Molino and Molino 6 and 7, Niog 2, Queens Row Central, Queens Row East in Bacoor City; Brgy. Kanluran, Muzon 2, Poblacion, Sapa 3, Silangan 1 and 2 in Rosario; and Anabu 2C-2F, Buhay na Tubig , Carsadang Buaya, Malagasang 1G, Malagasang 2-D, Medicion 1-A to 1-D, Medicion 2-A, Medicion 2-C, Medicion 2-D, Molino 5, Palico 1, Poblacion 2-A, 2-B, 3-A, 3-B, 4-C and 4-D, Tanzang Luma1-6, Toclong 1-A, 2-B, and 2-C in Imus City may avail of the company’s septic tank cleaning services at no extra cost. Septic tank cleaning service normally costs around Php 4,700 per truck.
of two parts)
BIYAYA Animal Care continues to make strides in animal welfare with several upcoming initiatives aimed at sustaining their impactful work. The organization runs various programs, including low-cost kapon, free kapon in collaboration with local government units, TNVR (Trap-NeuterVaccinate-Return), and adoption drives to promote responsible
limited time, the membership fee is available at a 35% discount, making it an attractive investment for healthconscious individuals.
Surge Fitness Lifestyle continues to commit to innovation and expansion, with new clubs under construction in various locations across Metro Manila, including Alabang Town Center, Gateway Mall, and BGC. These new clubs will feature additional amenities like wall climbing, ice baths, and pickleball courts.
by 2030. Ortiz expresses gratitude for the support from local governments, such as their collaboration with Mayor Rivera of San Mateo, Rizal. This partnership is a testament to the collective effort required to advance animal welfare.
As they celebrate their second anniversary on September 1, 2024, Biyaya Animal Care remains dedicated to creating a compassionate society where both humans and animals can thrive. Their ongoing commitment to rescue, rehabilitation, community education, and advocacy continues to inspire positive change in the Philippines.
PNP Chief Marbil champions trust and innovation
POLICE General Rommel Francisco Marbil, who assumed command as the 30th Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) on April 1, 2024, is steering the PNP towards a future grounded in practicality, efficiency, and community trust. In an interview with Manila Standard at his official residence inside Camp Crame, Marbil shared his vision for transforming the PNP. Unlike many high-ranking officials, he does not employ flashy escorts, embodying his belief in accessibility and community engagement. “A PNP chief should be approachable and not surrounded by guards,” he explained.
Marbil’s strategic approach to modern policing is influenced by his passion for learning and knowledge, traits reflected in his data-driven methods. As a family man and devout Catholic, Marbil’s values shape his compassionate and ethical leadership style. Marbil understands that for the police to effectively serve and protect, they must first gain the trust of the community. He emphasizes the need to focus on crime prevention and ensuring the well-being of police officers, creating a “circle of happiness” that will enable officers to better care for the public.
“Keeping the community safe is a partnership between the police and the people,” Marbil explained. “We are building trust by being transparent and accountable.”
Marbil’s vision extends beyond the PNP, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with the community and other sectors. He believes that problems like drug abuse require a multi-faceted approach involving education, community support, and legal frameworks like the SIM card registration law.
(Lower left) Manila Standard’s Ad Solution head Baldwin Felipe and Biyaya Animal Care co-founder Rina Ortiz. Biyaya is hosting a Deadpool & Wolverine screening for a cause (upper left photo) on July 27, 2024 for the benefit of its feline pets.
CIRCULAR No.: 2024-009 Date: July 16, 2024
TO : All Heads of the National Government Agencies (NGAs) including State Universities and Colleges; Heads of Government Corporations (GCs) classified as NonCommercial Public Sector Entities (Non-CPSEs); Local Chief Executives; Heads of Finance/Comptrollership/ Financial Management Services; Chief Accountants/Heads of Accounting Units; Commission on Audit (COA) Assistant Commissioners, Directors, Auditors; and All Others Concerned
SUBJECT : Implementation of International Public Sector Accounting Standard (IPSAS) 39-Employee Benefits and Relevant Philippine Application Guidance (PAG), by All NGAs, GCs Classified as Non-CPSEs, and LGUs
1.0 RATIONALE/PURPOSE
1.1 COA Resolution No. 2014-003 dated January 24,2014 prescribed the adoption of 25 IPSASs with corresponding P AG that were previously referred to as Philippine Public Sector Accounting Standards (PPSAS)2 Under COA Resolution No. 2017-0063 dated April 26, 2017, additional six IPSASs and updates to IPSASs prescribed through COA Resolution No. 2014-003 were adopted. Subsequently, this Commission issued COA Resolution No. 2021-0184 dated July 21, 2021, prescribing the adoption of the updates/changes to IPSASs based on the 2019 Edition of the Handbook of International Public Sector Accounting Pronouncements (HIP SAP).
1.2 COA Resolution No. 2021-019 dated July 21, 2021 was also issued providing the adoption of four additional IPSASs contained in the 2019 Edition of the HIPSAP published by the International Federation of Accountants. One of the IPSASs adopted is IPSAS 39-Employee Benefits, with an objective to establish principles for financial reporting and disclosure of employee benefits.
1.3 In view of the abovementioned developments and in consonance with the rulemaking function of this Commission as provided under Section 2(2),6 Article IX-D of the 1987 Philippine Constitution and Section 25(4),7 Chapter 2, Title I of Presidential Decree (PD) No. 1445,8 this Circular is issued to provide guidelines on the implementation of IPSAS 39-Employee Benefits
2.0 COVERAGE
This Circular shall be implemented by all NGAs, GCs classified as NonCPSEs,9 and LGUs.
3.0 DEFINITION OF TERMS10 For the purpose of this Circular, the following terms shall be construed to mean as follows:
3.1 Actuarial gains and losses - are changes in the present value of the defined benefit obligation resulting from:
a. Experience adjustments (the effects of differences between the previous actuarial assumptions and what has actually occurred); and
b. The effects of changes in actuarial assumptions.
3.2 Asset Ceiling - is the present value of any economic benefits available in the form of refunds from the plan or reductions in future contributions to the plan.
3.3 Assets held by a long-term employee benefit fund - are assets (other than nontransferable financial instruments issued by the reporting entity) that:
a. Are held by an entity (a fund) that is legally separate from the reporting entity and exists solely to pay or fund employee benefits; and
b. Are available to be used only to pay or fund employee benefits, are not available to the reporting entity’s own creditors (even in bankruptcy), and cannot be returned to the reporting entity,
i.
3.4 Current service cost - is the increase in the present value of the defined benefit obligation resulting from employee service in the current period.
3.5 Deficit or surplus - is the present value of the defined benefit obligation less the fair value of plan assets (if any).
3.6 Defined benefit plans - are post-employment benefit plans other than defined contribution
3.23
3.24
3.25
3.26
3.27
the termination of employment.
4.0 OBJECTIVE OF IPSAS 39
The objective of IPSAS 39 is to prescribe the accounting and disclosure for employee benefits. The Standard requires an entity to recognize:
a. A liability when an employee has provided service in exchange for employee benefits to be paid in the future; and
b. An expense when the entity consumes the economic benefits or service potenial arising from service provided by an employee in exchange for employee benefits.11
5.0 CLASSIFICATION OF EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
5.1 Employee benefits include:
5.1.1 Short-term employee benefits, such as the following, if expected to be settled wholly before twelve months after the end of the reporting period in which the employees render the related services:
a. Wages, salaries and social security contributions;
b. Paid annual leave and paid sick leave;
c. Profit-sharing and bonuses; and
d. Non-monetary benefits (such as medical care, housing, cars and free or subsidized goods or services) for current employees; 12
5.1.2 Post-employment benefits, such as the following:
a. Retirement benefits (e.g., pensions and lump sum payments on retirement); and
b. Other post-employment benefits, such as postemployment life insurance and post-employment medical care;13
5.1.3 Other long-term employee benefits, such as the following:
a. Long-term paid absences such as long service or sabbatical leave;
b. Jubilee or other long service benefits;
c. Long-term disability benefits;
d. Profit sharing and bonuses;
e. Deferred remuneration; and
f. Compensation payable by the entity until an individual enters new employment. 14
5.1.4 Termination benefits.15
The matrix presented as Annex A shall serve as a summary and guide for the succeeding discussions.
6.0 CLASSIFICATION OF POST-EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Post-employment benefit plans are classified as either defined contribution plans or defined benefit plans, depending on the economic substance of the plan, as derived from its principal terms and conditions.16
6.1 Defined Contribution Plans
6.1.1 Under defined contribution plans, the entity’s legal or constructive obligation is limited to the amount that it agrees to contribute to the fund. Thus, the amount of the postemployment benefits received by the employee is determined by the amount of contributions paid by an entity (and perhaps also the employee) to a post-employment benefit plan or to an insurance company, together with investment returns arising from the contributions. In consequence, actuarial risk (that benefits will be less than expected) and investment risk (that assets invested will be insufficient to meet expected benefits) fall, in substance, on the employee.17
6.1.2 Accounting for defined contribution plans is straightforward because the reporting entity’s obligation for each period is determined by the amounts to be contributed for that period. Consequently, no actuarial assumptions are required to measure the obligation or the expense, and there is no possibility of any actuarial gain or loss. Moreover, the obligations are measured on an undiscounted basis, except where they are not expected to be settled wholly before twelve months after the end of the reporting period in which the employees render the related service. 18
6.2 Defined Benefit Plans
6.2.1 Under defined benefit plans:
a. The entity’s obligation is to provide the agreed benefits to current an former employees; and b. Actuarial risk (that benefits will cost more than expected) and investment risk fall, in substance, on the entity. If actuarial or investment experience are worse than expected, the entity’s obligation may be increased.19
6.2.2 Accounting for defined benefit plans is complex, because actuarial assumptions are required to measure the obligation and the expense, and there is a possibility of actuarial gains and losses. Moreover, the obligations are measured on a discounted basis, because they may be settled many years after the employees render the related service.20
7.0 RECOGNITION AND MEASUREMENT OF EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
7.1 Short-Term Employee Benefits
7.1.1 When an employee has rendered service to an entity during an accounting period, the entity shall recognize the undiscounted amount of short-term employee benefits expected to be paid in exchange for that service:
a. As a liability (accrued expense), after deducting any amount already paid. If the amount already paid exceeds the undiscounted amount of the benefits, an entity shall recognize that excess as an asset (prepaid expense) to the extent that the prepayment will lead to, for example, a reduction in future payments or a cash refund.
b. As an expense, unless another Standard requires or permits
7.2.16
7.2.17
relationship with the insurer) retains a legal or constructive obligation, the payment of the premiums does not amount to a defined contribution arrangement. It follows that the entity:
a. Accounts for a qualifying insurance policy as a plan asset; and
b. Recognizes other insurance policies as reimbursement rights (if the policies satisfy the criteria for recognition of reimbursement rights).
7.2.18 Where an insurance policy is in the name of a specified plan participant or a group of plan participants, and the entity does not have any legal a constructive obligation to cover any loss on the policy, the entity has an obligation to pay benefits to the employees, and the insurer has sole responsibility for paying the benefits. The payment of fixed premiums under such contracts is, in substance, the settlement of the employee benefit obligation, rather than an investment to meet the obligation. Consequently, the entity no longer has an asset or a liability. Therefore, an entity treats such payments as contributions to a defined contribution plan.58
7.3 Other Long-Term Employee Benefits
7.3.1 The measurement of other long-term employee benefits is not usually subject to the same degree of uncertainty as the measurement of postemployment benefits. For this reason, IPSAS 39 requires a simplified method of accounting for
7.3.2 For other long-term employee benefits, an entity shall recognize the net total of the following amounts in surplus or deficit, except to the extent that another IPSAS requires or permits their inclusion in the cost of an asset: a. Service cost;
b. Net interest on the net defined benefit liability (asset); and c. Remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability (asset).
7.4 Termination Benefits
7.4.1 IPSAS 39 deals with termination benefits separately from other employee benefits, because the event that gives rise to an obligation is the tennination of employment rather than employee service. Tennination I benefits result from either an entity’s decision to tenninate the employment or an employee’s decision to accept an entity’s offer of benefits in exchange for termination of employment.61
7.4.2 Termination benefits do not include employee benefits resulting from termination of employment at the request of the employee without an entity’s offer, or as a result of mandatory retirement requirements, because those benefits are post-employment benefits. Some entities provide a lower level of benefit for tennination of employment at the request of the employee (in substance, a post-employment benefit) than for tennination of employment at the request of the entity. The difference between the benefit provided for tennination of employment at the request of the employee and a higber benefit provided at the request of the entity is a termination benefit.62
7.4.3 Termination benefits are typically lump sum payments, but sometimes also include: a. Enhancement of post-employment benefits, either indirectly through an employee benefit plan or directly.
b. Salary until the end of a specified notice period if the employee renders no further service that provides economic benefits to the entity. 63
7.4.4 Some employee benefits are provided regardless of the reason for the employee’s departure. The payment of such benefits is certain (subject to any vesting or minimum service requirements) but the timing of their payment is uncertain. Although such benefits are described in some jurisdictions as termination indemnities or termination gratuities, they are post-employment benefits rather than termination benefits, and an entity accounts for them as post-employment benefits.64
7.4.5 An entity shall recognize a liability and expense for termination benefits at the earlier of the following dates:
a. When the entity can no longer withdraw the offer of those benefits; and
b. When the entity recognizes costs for a restructuring that is within the scope ofIPSAS 19-Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent/ Assets and involves the payment of termination benefits.
7.4.6 An entity shall measure termination benefits on initial recognition, shall measure and recognize subsequent changes, in accordance with nature of the employee benefit, provided that if the termination benefit are an enhancement to post-employment benefits, the entity shall apply the requirements for post-employment benefits. Otherwise:
a. If the termination benefits are expected to be settled wholly before twelve months after the end of the reporting period in which the termination benefit is recognized, the entity shall apply the requirements for short-term employee benefits.
b. If the termination benefits are not expected to be settled wholly before twelve months after the end of the reporting period, the entity shall apply the requirements for other long-term employee benefits.66 8.0 DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS FOR EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
8.1 Short-Term Employee Benefits
Although IPSAS 39 does not require specific disclosures about short-term employee benefits, other Standards may require disclosures. For example, IPSAS 20-Related Party Disclosures requires disclosures of the aggregate remuneration of key management personnel and IPSAS I-Presentation of Financial Statements requires the disclosure of information about employee benefits expense.67
8.2 Post-Employment Employee Benefits
8.2.1 An entity shall disclose the amount recognized as an expense for defined contribution plans.68 Where required by IPSAS 20-Related Party Disclosures, an entity discloses information about contributions to defined contribution plans for key management personnel.69
8.2.2 An entity shall disclose information that:
a. Explains the characteristics of its defined benefit plans and risks associated with them;
b. Identifies and explains the amounts in its financial statements arising from its defined benefit plans; and
c. Describes how its defined benefit plans may affect the amount, timing and uncertainty of the entity’s future cash flows. 70 Characteristics of Defined Benefit Plans and Risks Associated with Them
8.2.3 An entity shall disclose:
a. Information about the characteristics of its defined benefit plans, including:
i. The nature of the benefits provided by the plan (e.g., final salary defined benefit plan or contribution-based plan with guarantee).
ii. A description of the regulatory framework in which the plan operates, for example the level of any minimum funding requirements, and any effect of the regulatory framework on the plan, such as the asset ceiling.
iii. A description of any other entity’s responsibilities for the governance of the plan, for example responsibilities of trustees or of management of the plan.
b. A description of the risks to which the plan exposes the entity, focused on any unusual, entity-specific or planspecific risks, and of any significant concentrations of risk. For example, ifplan assets are invested primarily in one class of investments, e.g., property, the plan may expose the entity to a concentration of property market risk.
c. A description of any plan amendments, curtailments and settlements.
d. The basis on which the discount rate has been determined.
71
Explanation of Amounts in the Financial Statements
8.2.4 An entity shall provide a reconciliation from the opening balance to the closing balance for each of the following, if applicable:
a. The net defined benefit liability (asset), showing separate reconciliations for:
i. Plan assets.
ii. The present value of the defined benefit obligation.
iii. The effect of the asset ceiling.
b. Any reimbursement rights. An entity shall also describe the relationship between any reimbursement right and the related obligation.
72
8.2.5 An entity shall disclose the significant actuarial assumptions used to determine the present value of the defined benefit obligation. Such disclosure shall be in absolute terms (e.g., as an absolute percentage, and not just as a margin between different percentages and other variables). When an entity provides disdosures in total for a grouping of plans, it shall provide such disclosures in the form of weighted averages or relatively narrow ranges.
73
8.2.6 To provide an indication of the effect of the defined benefit plan on the entity’s future cash flows, an entity shall disclose:
a. A description of any funding arrangements and funding policy that affect future contributions.
b. The expected contributions to the plan for the next reporting period.
c. Information about the maturity profile of the defined benefit obligation. This will include the weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation and may include other infonnation about the distribution of the timing of benefit payments, such as a maturity analysis of the benefit payments.74
Multi-Employer Plans
8.2.7 If an entity participates in a multi-employer defined benefit plan, its disclose:
a. A description of the funding arrangements, including the method used to determine the entity’s rate of contributions and an minimum funding requirements.
b. A description of the extent to which the entity can be liable to the plan for other entities’ obligations under the tenns and conditions of the multi-employer plan.
c. A description of any agreed allocation of a deficit or surplus on:
i. Wind-up of the plan; or
ii. The entity’s withdrawal from the plan.
d. If the entity accounts for that plan as if it were a defined contribution plan in accordance with paragraph 7.2.9, it shall disclose the following, in addition to the infonnation required by (a)-(c) and instead of the information required by paragraphs above.
i. The fact that the plan is a defined benefit plan.
ii. The reason why sufficient information is not available to enable the entity to account for the plan as a defined benefit plan.
iii. The expected contributions to the plan for the next reporting period.
iv. Information about any deficit or surplus in the plan that may affect the amount of future contributions, including the basis used to determine that deficit or surplus and the implications, if any, for the entity.
v. An indication of the level of participation of the entity in the plan compared with other participating entities. Examples of measures that might provide such an indication include the entity’s proportion of the total contributions to the plan or the entity’s proportion of the total number of active members, retired members, and former members entitled to benefits, if that information is available.75 Defined Benefit Plans that Share Risks Between Entities under Comma Control
8.2.8 If an entity participates in a defined benefit plan that shares risks between entities under common control, it shall disclose:
a. The contractual agreement or stated policy for charging the net defined benefit cost or the fact that there is no such policy.
b. The policy for determining the contribution to be paid by the entity.
c. If the entity accounts for an allocation of the net defined benefit cos as noted in paragraph 41 ofIPSAS 39, all the information about the plan as a whole required by paragraphs l37-149 of IPSAS.
d. If the entity accounts for the contribution payable for the period as noted in paragraph 41 of IPSAS 39, the information about the plan as a whole required by the paragraphs 137-139, 141 , 144-146 and 149(a) and (b) of IPSAS 39.76
8.2.9 Where required by IPSAS 20-Related Party Disclosures, and entity discloses information about:
8.2.10 Where
10.0 NEW ACCOUNTS TO BE USED
The accounts provided in Annex B of this Circular shall be used in the implementation of IPSAS 39. These accounts shall be considered in the updating of the Chart of Accounts for NGAs, GCs classified as Non-CPSEs, and LGUs. 11.0 ILLUSTRATIVE ACCOUNTING ENTRIES
The illustrative accounting entries for recognition of employee benefits are provided in Annex C of this Circular.
12.0 TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS
NGAs, GCs classified as Non-CPSEs, and LGUs are given three (3) years from the effectivity of this Circular to recognize and make necessary adjustments in their employee / benefits, to update and reconcile employee leave credits, and to perform other rele am activities to comply with this Circular. Government entities shall apply IPSAS 39 retrospectively, in accordance with 3-Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors, except that government entities need not adjust the
13.0
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL
ADRIATICO, Writer
By Nickie Wang
CHRISTINE Bermas stars in the new Vivamax film
Kaskasero, which features a passionate love scene with her leading man, Itan Rosales. This is precisely why she doesn’t want her boyfriend, Nicco Loco, to watch the movie.
Christine’s love life has been a hot topic. Recently, she admitted that she and Nicco separated due to cheating but have since reconciled.
By Abigail Adriatico
THE Alliance Française de Manille
will be opening the Legacy in Motion: A Visual Tribute to Olympic & Paralympic Athletes exhibition.
Running from July 25 until Aug. 24, the exhibition will showcase a collection of photos captured by AFP photojournalists of Filipino Olympic and Paralympic athletes and their journey throughout the years. The exhibit aims to highlight athletes’ accomplishments and life stories as part of the celebration of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris. Filipino athletes who will have their photos featured in the
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
Why Christine Bermas prohibits boyfriend from watching her Vivamax movies
“We are happy together and have forgiven each other. Relationships have ups and downs because no relationship is perfect,” Christine stated.
“When we have movies, we don’t watch the love scenes. It’s not because of jealousy, but in a relationship, if we watch each other’s love scenes with other partners, it might not turn out well,” she added.
Kaskasero follows the story of Miggy (Itan), a talented mechanic who is drawn into street car racing after meeting Gabbi, portrayed by Christine. Miggy attends to Gabbi’s car problem, and she immediately finds him charming and interesting. Naturally, Miggy likes her too.
Soon, Miggy starts to make loads of money as a car racer. Girls throw
Alliance Française de Manille opens photo exhibit on national athletes’ journey
themselves at him, like Denise (Angela Morena), Gabbi’s so-called friend who has always been competitive with her. Despite knowing that Gabbi and Miggy are a couple, Denise is out to get him, never mind that she’s also involved with Archie (Marco Gomez), another expert car racer who’s in deep trouble with a loan shark.
As Miggy enjoys all the attention and pleasures that come with this fast and thrilling life, Gabbi reveals something about her past that crushes him. This drives him to make rash decisions, one after another. Suddenly, Miggy finds himself teaming up with Archie and clashing with powerful people, which puts Gabbi in danger.
Kaskasero also stars Angelica Cervantes Cess Garcia, and Rica Gonzales. Directed by Ludwig Peralta, the movie streams exclusively on Vivamax beginning July 26.
exhibition Les France-Presse, Française Manille, to SM
exhibition include Tokyo 2020 Olympics participants Hidilyn Diaz Margielyn Arda Didal Eumir Felix Marcial, Carlos Edriel Yulo, and Nesthy Petecio as well as 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics participant Michael Christian Martinez
Puey Quinones designed TPB COO Marga Nograles (left) and CSC Chairman Karlo Nograles’ looks for the event
The exhibition is presented under Les Jeudis Culturels, the Agence France-Presse, Alliance Française de Manille, and the Embassy of France to the Philippines. With the support of SM Malls and HSBC, the exhibit has also been presented at S Maison, The Podium, and SM Aura.
The vernissage for the exhibition will be on July 25 at 6:30 pm.
The 2024 Paris Olympics will be held on July 26 to Aug. 11 while the Paralympic Games will go on be from Aug. 28 until Sept. 8.
By Abigail Adriatico
WITH President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s highly anticipated third State of the Nation Address (SONA) seeing more than 2,000 attendees, its red carpet saw stylish gowns and dashing suits by top fashion designers in the country.
One of the designers who had many of his creations flaunted on the red carpet was Michael Leyva. Some of the personalities who wore his designs were Senate Spouses Foundation Inc. (SSFI) President Heart Evangelista, who wore a gorgeous white modern Filipiniana, and Senate President Chiz Escudero, who looked sharp in a traditional Barong
Other guests who wore Leyva’s designs were Congresswoman Marylyn Alonte, Special Envoy of the President to UAE for Trade & Investments Ma. Anna Kathryna Pimentel and Congresswoman Stella Quimbo
Puey Quinones also had several politicians wear his designs such as Senator Loren Legarda who graced the event in a layered Filipiniana with embroidered details and Congressman Sandro Marcos who wore a simple full callado piña barong
Civil Service Commission of the Philippines
Chairman Karlo Nograles also wore a Barong of Quinones’ design while his wife Philippine Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Chief Operating Officer (COO) Marga Nograles donned a gorgeous blue Filipiniana with circular details resembling the deep blue sea. Rajo Laurel also had his intricate designs worn by politicians such as Mayor Lani Mercado Revilla, who wore a simple yet elegant off-shoulder Filipiniana adorned with beautiful embroidered flowers. House of Representatives member Jocelyn Pua Tulfo also wore one of Laurel’s designs, which was a chrysalis terno while Congresswoman Karen Javier donned a pink dainty Filipiniana.
Notably, this year’s SONA had a dress code set in place that banned outfits that had derogatory as well as political messages.
Quimbo
in an elegant white
by Michael Leyva
House of Representatives
member Jocelyn Pua Tulfo wears a chrysalis
Carlos Yulo is an artistic gymnast with several medals to his name
Itan Rosales (left) and Christine Bermas star in ‘Kaskasero’
Christine (left) has recently gotten back together with Nicco Loco following a separation due to cheating
‘Kaskasero’ revolves around the story of a mechanic who delves into street car racing after meeting a girl
wears a
wear custom designs by Michael Leyva