Manila Standard - 2024 July 28 - Sunday

OIL SLICK MAY IMPACT CAVITE, PAMPANGA, AND BULACAN

MARCOS CREATES TASK FORCE TO AVERT SPILL CATASTROPHE

By Charles Dantes

SOME of the 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil inside the sunken MT Terra Nova tanker started to leak into Manila Bay, the Philippine Coast Guard said Saturday, as the government raced to avoid an environmental catastrophe.

The oil slick has more than tripled in size and is now estimated to stretch 12-14 kilometers across the bay, which thousands of fishermen and tourism operators rely on for their livelihoods.

Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga told President Marcos the oil spill might affect Bulacan, Cavite, and Pampanga.

Yulo-Loyzaga showed Mr. Marcos a diagram from the Biodiversity Management Bureau identifying coastal and marine resources and

marine protected areas that might be affected by the oil spill as well as an image from the Philippine Satellite Agency showing the track of the oil slick.

“We are on the lookout now for the possible contamination that could happen in the wetlands and the coastline areas not just of Bataan, but we are also looking at Bulacan, and we are also looking at Pampanga, possibly Cavite because of Corregidor,” she said. The President created an inter-

By Rachelle Tonelada

THE Philippines carried out a rotation and resupply (RORE) mission to troops on Ayungin Shoal Saturday without “untoward incidents,” more than a month after a violent clash with Chinese forces in the area.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it was the first RORE mission in the West Philippine Sea since Manila and Beijing reached a “provisional arrangement” earlier this month for the delivery of daily necessities for Filipino troops based on the BRP Sierra Madre, a rusty warship grounded atop the shoal.

China Coast Guard spokesman Gan Yu claimed the Philippines carried out Saturday’s resupply mission “in accordance with the temporary arrangement reached between China

and the Philippines.”

“The Chinese coast guard acknowledged and supervised the whole process,” Gan said in a statement.

China also warned it will “respond resolutely” to any violation by the Philippines of the recent deal aimed at de-escalating tensions between the two countries, its top diplomat, Wangi Yi, told his Filipino counterpart, Secretary Enrique Manalo, at an ASEAN gathering in Laos.

Wang Yi called on the Philippines to “honor its commitments” under the deal rather than “backtracking or creating complications,” according to a readout of the meeting released by Beijing.

“Otherwise, China will definitely respond resolutely,” he said.

Wang also warned the Philippines against deploying a US missile de -

PH: 1ST RESUPPLY MISSION IN WPS AFTER CHINA DEAL

fense system.

“If the Philippines introduces the US intermediate-range missile defense system, it will create tension and confrontation in the region and trigger an arms race,” he said.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, for his part, hit out at China’s “escalatory and unlawful actions” in the South China Sea on Saturday in Laos.

The United States and ASEAN had to work together to “address challenges,” Blinken told ministers from the 10-member bloc, including China’s “escalatory and unlawful actions taken against the Philippines in the South China Sea over the last few months.”

Speaking to reporters late Friday evening, Manalo said he hoped Beijing would keep its side of the bargain. AFP

agency task force to quickly address the potential effects of

Led by the Office of the Civil Defense, the task force also includes the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine Coast Guard, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Health, Department of Labor and Employment, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Mr. Marcos said indigenous materials to absorb the oil should be used.

“Let’s simulate it because no matter what happens, we will really need the commercial booms. Whatever we can get, let’s get it... Let’s get ready for the time when we have to deploy them. Actually, we should already be deploying them,” the President said.

Divers inspected the hull of the vessel on Saturday and saw a “minimal leak” from the valves, PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armando Balilo said, adding it was “not alarming yet.”

“It’s just a small volume flowing out,” Balilo said, adding “the tanks are intact.”

“We’re hoping that tomorrow (Sunday), we will be able to start siphoning the oil from the motor tanker,” he added. The ship that will carry the recovered oil is on its way to the area, he said. AFP

street skateboarding competition, due to take place at the Place de la Concorde in the historic heart of Paris, was postponed until Monday due to rain overnight, organizers said.

The downpours also disrupted play at the opening rounds of tennis at Roland Garros, with no action on the 10 uncovered outside courts until 13:30 local time (1130 GMT), organizers said.

Torrential rain had lashed participants and spectators in Friday’s amphibious opening ceremony, where around 7,000 athletes paraded along the Seine in an armada of boats before a show-stopping finale which climaxed with a glittering light show at the Eiffel Tower and a performance from singer Celine Dion. The ceremony received broadly favourable reviews, with France’s centre-right Le Figaro daily describing it as “full of surprises but often disjointed.”

The International Olympic Committee however was forced to apologize however for a gaffe during the ceremony that saw South Korea’s athletes incorrectly introduced as North Korean.

“We deeply apologize for the mistake that occurred when introducing the South Korean team during the broadcast of the opening ceremony,” the IOC said in a post on its official Korean-language X account. AFP

OVER 1,000 PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO DEFER OPENING TO AUG. 5

SOME 1,002 public schools nationwide will postpone their opening to not later than August 5 following the severe flooding caused by Super Typhoon “Carina” and the enhanced “habagat.”

“Some schools will really have to postpone their opening because they have a lot to fix and clean,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.

In Metro Manila, all 190 public schools in Malabon, Pasig, Marina and Valenzuela will open on August 5 instead of on Monday, July 29, DepEd data showed.

Some 35 public schools in Navotas, Manila, San Juana and Quezon City will also move their opening to August 5. In Ilocos Region, 331 schools will open after July 29 but not later than August 5. Central Luzon will also have 442 schools moving their opening. In Region 12, four schools near the Ligurian Marsh in Cotabato will open on August 5.

“The regional directors will also work with the principals to assess readiness for school opening. We will not force those who were devastated and will really have a hard time to open on Monday,” Angara said.

EPIC OPENING. The delegations from the Philippines, Poland and Puerto Rico sail in a boat along the river Seine during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on July 26, 2024, as the Eiffel Tower is seen in the background. AFP

the oil spill.

Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo competes in six apparatus for the all-around qualification in Bercy Arena. He needs to be in the Top 8 of each apparatus to qualify. As of press time, he is on track to compete in the all-around final. (See online for Yulo’s final standing)

IN BRIEF

PBBM ORDERS GOV’T AGENCIES TO PITCH IN AFTER ‘CARINA’ DEVASTATION

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the construction of additional water impounding systems and directed support for evacuees in Central Luzon, which has been hit hard by Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon.

During a briefing in Bulacan, Mr. Marcos emphasized the need to build more water-impounding systems in Central Luzon to mitigate flooding during the rainy season.

Citing his various aerial inspections of affected provinces, the Chief Executive shared his observation that the water almost has nowhere to go.

“The water level dropped a lot all at once. Our slope protection, flood control, and dikes just couldn’t handle it anymore, so we need to find another way to address this,” President Marcos said.

The Bulacan local government has reported P103.7 million in dam-

ages to agriculture and fisheries, and P895.6 million in infrastructure damages. He outlined plans to dredge Bulacan offshore and five priority rivers to mitigate flooding.

Department of Health (DOH)

Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the agency would help ensure the mental and physical health of evacuees hit by the calamity.

The  President also instructed the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to identify and assist affected farmers and fisherfolk through its TUPAD Program.

DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma noted that some TUPAD beneficiaries are helping the

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) repack food items and assisting the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in clearing operations.

The President also ordered the Department of Agriculture (DA) to provide assistance in rehabilitating the agriculture sector of Bulacan, Pampanga, and Bataan in the aftermath of the typhoon.

Mr. Marcos convened the local chief executives of the three provinces to assess the situation and check on their further needs while relief operations are ongoing in the region.

Bulacan reported at least P103 million in losses to its agri-fisheries sector, while Pampanga and Bataan incurred P378 million and P92.92 million, respectively.

The combined effects of Carina and the “habagat” flooded at least 220 barangays in Pampanga, affecting more than 127,000 families.

In Bulacan, Governor Daniel Fernando said 100 percent, or 24 cities and municipalities, of the province were affected by flooding, with Meycauayan

and Malolos the hardest hit.

Eleven out of the 12 municipalities and city in Bataan were also struck by floods, affecting at least 208,371 families.

Reporting on the extent of the damage caused by the typhoon and “habagat,” Fernando said Bulacan is ready to work with the national government for a permanent solution to the flooding in the region.

Cabinet members were present in the briefing to assure that relief is ready and available to all affected families.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said more than 250,000 relief packs were either delivered or awaiting pickup for the typhoon victims in Bulacan, Pampanga, and Bataan.

The DSWD, he said, is also processing 247,000 additional requests in these provinces.

He said health workers have been deployed to all evacuation centers across the region.

Herbosa said the DOH would also deploy “psychological first aid” teams for fisherfolk and farmers whose sources of income were destroyed by the typhoon.

CHURCH CLEANUP. Residents clean and repair a display enclosure at the San Bartolome Parish Church in Malabon City on Saturday. Religious images in the church have been damaged during the height of Typhoon Carina. Danny Pata

SENATE TO REVIEW GOV’T FLOOD CONTROL FUNDS

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Senate is set to review the funds of government agencies in charge of  flood  control projects in the next budget deliberation.

Senator Grace Poe expressed concern that despite the increasing budget allocated for  flood  control projects every year, the worsening  flooding  in Metro Manila indicates that the funds are not being utilized effectively.

In the upcoming budget deliberation, Poe stated that the  flood  control budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and other relevant

agencies will be thoroughly examined.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano also highlighted the delayed  flood  control projects of DPWH, suggesting that the effects of recent typhoons could have been mitigated if these projects had been completed.

As of July 24, Metro Manila and five neighboring provinces were placed under a state of calamity after being submerged by heavy  flooding  due to the typhoon, affecting 882,861 individuals or 183,464 families from 686 barangays nationwide.

Following heavy  flooding  from Typhoon Carina, which affected hundreds of thousands of individuals, Senator Cayetano criticized the

years of inaction on crucial  flood  control projects, emphasizing the need for better infrastructure to protect communities.

During a previous Senate hearing, Cayetano questioned the allocation of resources to unfinished  flood  control projects and raised concerns about the maintenance and rehabilitation budget of the DPWH, which accounts for a significant portion of its total budget.

Additionally, Cayetano called for improved hazard mapping by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology to aid in the selection of better locations for  floodrelated infrastructure.

MAYOR BELMONTE SAYS 15 QC PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO DEFER OPENING OF CLASSES DUE TO ‘CARINA’

By Maricel V. Cruz

A TOTAL of 143 public elementary and high schools in Quezon City will be ready for the opening of classes on Monday, July 29.

Several public schools, however, will defer their opening of classes in the aftermath of Typhoon Carina, according to Mayor Joy Belmonte.

Based on Division Memorandum No. 778, Series of 2024, Belmonte stated that classes in 15 public elementary and high schools will not begin on Monday (July 29) due to various reasons. Classes in Sto. Cristo Elementary School, Balumbato Elementary School, Cong. Reynaldo

Calalay Elementary School, Sinagtala Elementary School, San Francisco Elementary School, Dalupan Elementary School, Diosdado P. Macapagal Elementary School, Rosa L. Susano Elementary School, Odelco Elementary School, Josefa Jara Martinez High School, and Sta. Lucia High School will start only on August 1 (Thursday) as they are currently being used as evacuation centers.

Belmonte added that Betty Go Belmonte Elementary School, Masambong Elementary School, Masambong High School, and Sergio Osmena Sr. High School sustained damages that needed immediate repair and can only begin classes on August 5 (Monday).

Navotas Rep.Toby Tiangco meanwhile thanked President Marcos for visiting Navotas Thursday afternoon to inspect the damaged Tangos-Tanza navigational gate and distribute relief packs to evacuees.

“Massive  flooding  in Navotas had become a thing of the past, especially since we surrounded our city with bombastik pumping stations. The company responsible for the damage to the navigational gate should be held accountable. We must ensure such negligence does not happen again,” he further said.

Tiangco said they discussed with the President the plans for the repair of the floodgate.

Makati City, and turned him over to the BuCor at 7 p.m. on Friday. Abamonga, 30, of Block 10, Patola Street, Barangay Tumana in Marikina City was sentenced from 8 years to 14 years imprisonment by the Marikina Regional Trial Court Branch 273 for homicide.

He escaped from the PMA stockade in Fort del Pilar, Baguio City on July 22.

AFP TO DONATE MEAL ALLOWANCE TO VICTIMS OF TYPHOON

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday announced the donation of its members’ onemeal subsistence allowance to the victims of Typhoon Carina. AFP Chief General Romeo Brawner said that it is their way of extending additional support to the victims of the bad weather earlier last week.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is extending its support to the victims of Typhoon Carina by donating the equivalent of one meal from their Subsistence Allowance, amounting to P50.00 per member.”

Brawner also explained that the various Search, Rescue, and Retrieval teams are also still deployed in Metro Manila and Southern and Northern Luzon to help in humanitarian assistance and disaster response efforts.

Brawner added that said collective effort and selfless sacrifices reflect the AFP’s commitment to aiding those affected by this disaster, demonstrating solidarity and compassion during these challenging times. Rex Espiritu

SOLON WANTS MORE GOODS UNDER PRICE FREEZE DURING CALAMITIES

CAMARINES Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte pushed for the approval of a bill that will make it easier for the government to impose price control on basic commodities when disaster strikes.

Villafuerte said there is an urgent need for the measure to be passed to prevent undue price spirals of food and other basic commodities when strong typhoons or other natural disasters occur.

Villafuerte called on his fellow legislators to consider the passage on the current third and final session of the 19th Congress of a bill that empowers the Price Coordinating Council (PCC) or any of its memberagencies to expand on their own the list of food and non-food items to be covered by a price freeze whenever there are emergency or calamity situations.

Villafuerte appealed for the approval of House Bill 7977, which seeks to amend Republic Act 7581 or the Price Act of 1992, on the heels of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)’s imposition of a price freeze following the July 24 declaration of a state of calamity in Metro Manila, which, along with four other Luzon regions, had been through unusually heavier rains brought by the southwest monsoon that was enhanced by Tropical Cyclone Carina, which was later reclassified into a super typhoon as it left the Philippines on its way to Taiwan. Maricel V. Cruz

BRIGADA IN SORSOGON. Faculty members and parents join the Brigada Eskwela activity at Basud Elementary School and the Tabaco National High School in Sorsogon.

E-mail: mst.daydesk@gmail.com Website: www.manilastandard.net

PH CLIMBS RANKING OF DESIRED WORK DESTINATIONS, STUDY SAYS

By Othel V. Campos

The Philippines has climbed 11 spots to 56th place in the global rankings of desired work destinations, according to the Decoding Global Talent 2024 study released by  Jobstreet by SEEK, Boston Consulting Group, and The Network.

The improvement is driven by perceptions of the country’s welcoming culture, high quality of life, affordable cost of living, and promising job opportunities.

While this upward trend is encouraging, challenges remain as the Philippines still lags behind top global countries and some of its Southeast Asian neighbors.

Interest in working in the Philippines is growing among foreign talent, particularly from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the USA, and Canada.

However, 80 percent of Filipino professionals are also considering relocating abroad for work, primarily motivated by financial incentives, career advancement opportunities, and the promise of better social systems.

This figure, though declining from previous years, remains notably higher than the Southeast Asian average of 68 percent.

Filipino professionals across a wide range of skill levels are seeking overseas work, not limited but including craft and manual labor, as well as in engineering, research, and service industries.

A concerning trend is that 35

percent of Filipinos prefer longterm overseas work without plans to return, raising alarms about potential brain drain in the country.

The study also revealed a global increase in willingness to work remotely for foreign employers at 66 percent, with Filipino professionals showing an even greater eagerness at 84 percent.

The trend toward remote work presents both challenges and opportunities for Filipino employers, who must adapt to attract and retain talent in an increasingly competitive global job market.

“We encourage Filipino employers to develop a global talent strategy, as we may experience talent  shortages in the future considering the number of Filipino jobseekers willing to work abroad. They can  start by providing better compensation or benefits and better career opportunities as these are the main reasons people seek work abroad. Alternatively, Filipino employers can also consider attracting the working population from other countries,”    said    JobStreet by SEEK Philippines managing director Dannah Majarocon.

DSWD PROVIDES MORE THAN P70M IN AID FOR TYPHOON CARINA VICTIMS

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has provided more than  P70  million  worth of humanitarian aid to families severely affected by the onslaught of Super Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon or “habagat.”

“The DSWD sent family food packs, family kits, hygiene kits, laminated sacks, and kitchen kits, among other relief items to our affected kababayans. Secretary Rex Gatchalian directed the DRMG and all our Field Offices (FOs) to intensify and double our efforts to provide extra love and care in this trying time,” DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene

Dumlao said.

This as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. attended on Friday a series of situation briefings in the provinces of Quezon and Rizal where the chief executive was assured by Gatchalian the DSWD has responded to the requests for augmentation of relief supplies by the affected local  government units in the CALABARZON region.

“Mr. President, the total request deployed for the entire 4-A (CALABARZON) is 42,785 (boxes of FFPs)... We probably have around 4,000 to 10,000 pending requests, which we should be able to deploy within the next 24 hours,” Gatchalian reported to Marcos during a briefing in Mauban, Quezon, which was the first stop of the Presidential team.

In Rizal province,  Gatchalian accompanied the President in the inspection of the floodaffected municipality of San Mateo.

Mr. Marcos met with the evacuees currently staying at the San Mateo Elementary School and personally heard from them the current status and the needed government intervention for those severely impacted by the floods.

The DSWD chief, together with Field Office 4-A (CALABARZON) Regional Director Barry Chua and his Asst. Regional Director for Operations (ARDO) Mylah Gatchalian led the distribution of family food packs to the Carina-affected communities.

Meanwhile, Dumlao said the department also distributed cash assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

DSWD social workers continue to coordinate with Carina-affected local government units to determine other needed interventions during the recovery phase, according to Dumlao.

DHSUD ORDERS SHELTER AGENCIES TO GRANT MORATORIUM ON HOUSING MONTHLY FEES

By Maricel V. Cruz

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has ordered its key shelter agencies (KSAs) to implement a moratorium on monthly payments of their beneficiaries affected by Typhoon Carina. In a memorandum issued recently by DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, he directed the KSAs, namely, the Home Development Mutual Fund or Pag-IBIG Fund, National Housing Authority (NHA), the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) and the National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC) to grant one-month moratorium in payments for their typhoon-affected clients. Acuzar stressed that such action is the Department’s way of extending help and easing the burden of families affected by the typhoon.

affected by this disaster, subject to their internal rules and regulations,” Acuzar said in his memo Friday.

“This is also in compliance to the President’s directive to extend all necessary assistance to those affected by the typhoon,” he added.

The move by DHSUD will benefit thousands of Filipino  families who have outstanding loans to the KSAs.

“As part of our disaster response effort, the KSAs are hereby instructed to grant a one-month moratorium on the payment of monthly amortizations to their respective clientele

As DHSUD chief,  Acuzar concurrently serves as chairman of the boards of the NHA, SHFC, NHMFC and Pag-IBIG Fund--all offering housing and other shelter-related loans.

Apart from the moratorium, SHFC President Federico Laxa also said that they have prepared 9,132 relief packs to be distributed to typhoonaffected families within their project sites.

Earlier, the Pag-IBIG Fund also announced the allocation of Php3 billion in calamity loans for its members. As of noontime Friday, at least 250 loan applications were received.

The Fund is also deploying its Pag-IBIG on-wheels mobile offices to affected areas to deliver frontline services closer to the people.

IN BRIEF

PRESIDENT MARCOS HAILS INC ON INSPIRING NATION TOWARD UNITY

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. encouraged the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) to continue inspiring the nation toward unity and progress as it celebrates its 110th founding anniversary.

“The 110th Anniversary of the Iglesia ni Cristo is a historic celebration that proves your love for God, resilience, and dedication as members of INC,”  President Marcos said in his message Saturday to the INC.

“May you continue to be an inspiration not just to your community, but to the whole nation. Your unwavering service and activities reflect unity, progress, and a deeper understanding as a people,”he added. He urged INC members to strengthen their faith and love for God and each other, and to pray for a hopeful, prosperous, and peaceful Philippines.

“With every step of kindness and compassion, may we be instruments of change in our society, and may we realize a New Philippines that benefits all. Let us all live in the Light of love and cooperation,” he said.

Charles Dantes

CONSULTATIONS SET ON CRIMINAL PROCEDURE RULES

THE Supreme Court (SC) has scheduled the first leg of the regional consultations for the proposed amendments to the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure set to happen at De La Salle Lipa in Batangas on August 8.

The series of consultations, headed by SC Associate Justice Rodil V. Zalameda, aims to engage various stakeholders, including judges, prosecutors, lawyers, and the academe, in discussing proposed amendments.

According to the SC, “Since its introduction in the Philippines in the 1900s, the rules of Criminal Procedure have undergone a number of revisions, the latest being the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure,  promulgated by the Supreme Court on 1 December 2000.”

Among the innovations to be incorporated in the proposal include the Guidelines on the Conduct of Videoconferencing, Rules on the Use of Body-Worn Cameras in the Execution of Warrants, and the Implementation of the Enhanced e-Warrant System.

The SC added, “the proposed Rules utilize Gender-Fair Language, consistent with the continuing goal to be an inclusive and nondiscriminatory Judiciary.”

Meanwhile, Tarlac State University School of Law Dean Jose I. Dela Rama, Jr. welcomes the said activity that will provide a platform for different concerns and problem areas to propose a wholistic solution to ensure swift administration of justice. He stressed the use of DNA and other scientific devices like in foreign jurisdictions will better ensure whether the accused actually committed the crime. Pot Chavez

DMW SAYS 25K JOBS AWAIT FILIPINOS IN JAPAN

SOME 25,000 job opportunities are available for Filipinos who are seeking employment abroad, particularly in Japan.

In a social media post on Saturday, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said the special job fair was organized with the Embassy of Japan in celebration of the Philippines-Japan Friendship Week.

The event titled “Konnichiwa Pilipinas! Kumusta, Japan!” will be held at the 3rd floor of Robinsons Galleria Ortigas in Quezon City on Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fifteen licensed recruitment agencies are participating while companies will offer jobs in the sectors of construction, medical and

The DMW said the event aims to provide a venue for Filipino job seekers to access legitimate recruiters. It also allows potential overseas Filipino workers to learn about gender dynamics and potential risks associated with overseas labor migration through short information sessions on Japanese-gendered work culture.

SOUVENIR PHOTO. Graduating students from the University of the Philippines (UP) pose in front of the Oblation statue inside the UP Diliman Campus in Quezon City on Saturday for a souvenir photo. Manny Palmero

SCAVENGER. A scavenger sifts through garbage in Longos, Malabon  City after the onslaught of Typhoon Carina which brought floods throughout the National Capital Region. Danny Pata

BOUNDARYBREAKING, genre-defying, and unprecedented: the opening ceremony for the Paris Olympics got the 2024 Summer Games underway with a pulsating energy and unique show that will never be forgotten.

Here are five memorable moments:

UNINVITED RAINS

Opening ceremony mastermind

Thomas Jolly, a renowned French theatre director, had carefully choreographed every minute of the festival along the banks of the River Seine.

But there was one factor he could not plan for -- the weather. The opening ceremony had the misfortune to take place as heavy summer downpours descended on Paris even as forecasts showed days of hot sunny weather ahead.

As the national teams paraded down the Seine on boats, they sought to make the best of the situation, likely hoping the damp would have no impact on health before events.

GREAT COMEBACK

Canadian singer Celine Dion, who had been battling a rare illness, made a spectacular comeback by singing from the Eiffel Tower at the climax of the ceremony with a rousing version of the "Hymn to Love" by Edith Piaf.

Showing pitch-perfect intonation and hitting the notes with ease, she serenaded a captive Paris as the cauldron lit by France's most-decorated track athlete

Marie-Jose Perec and three-time Olympic gold medal-winning

MEMORABLE MOMENTS AT ONE-OF-A-KIND PARIS OPENING RITES

judoka Teddy Riner soared into the Paris sky in a balloon.

Last month she vowed she would ght her way back from the debilitating rare neurological condition that has kept her o stage.

Dion first disclosed in December 2022 that she had been diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome, an incurable autoimmune disorder.

FRENCH CLASSIC

Some 80 artists from the celebrated Moulin Rouge cabaret performed the iconic cancan dance that dates back to the 1820s, in pink costumes specially designed for the occasion.

The famous music however was given a new electronic touch that set the tone for an evening that sought to put a new twist on classic French culture.

As the teams began their parade down the Seine they were serenaded by an accordion player—dressed in the obligatory French out t of beret and blue-striped T-shirt—precariously perched on a bridge.

DEFYING DISCRIMINATION

There had been a racist backlash on social media and criticism from the extreme right when it emerged that French Malian singer Aya Nakamura was to perform at the opening ceremony.

But with President Emmanuel Macron himself backing her involvement, she and her dance troupe swung their way into a medley of her hits and a song by the great Charles Aznavour.

In an eloquent symbol, she received backing from the musicians of France's Republican Guard and performed

against the backdrop of the Academie Francaise, the austere guardians of the French language.

ECLECTIC MUSIC

No one could accuse the opening ceremony of being rigid in its choice of music with the city pulsating to all styles from classical, to opera, to pop to electro.

The ceremony did not stint on star power with Lady Gaga appearing to perform a French music hall classic and homegrown stars like the rapper Rim'K also performing at the ceremony. But perhaps the biggest cheer came for the French metal band Gojira who appeared on platforms high on the Conciergerie, an iconic building in the French Revolution, the rst time a metal band has appeared at an Olympic opening ceremony. AFP

Team Philippines athletes during the parade aboard their designated team boats on the Seine River during the Paris Olympics' opening ceremonies. The right photo shows Team Philippine o cials with raincoats as a late afternoon shower mars the event. From POC

Consumed by a longing for family and excitement for a newfound passion, interior designer Aurora “Abby” Villaflor returned to the Philippines to embark on a sweet new journey.

Leaving behind a successful career overseas, Abby traded blueprints for baking sheets, turning her love for pastries into a thriving business.

“My business is baking. It started as a hobby during the pandemic years, but it quickly turned into a full-fledged passion,” she said.

Her charming pastry shop “Aurora Bakes and Bikes” in Pampanga started barely a year ago to offer a delectable array of cookies, macarons, cakes and occasional bread, each crafted with love and creativity.

Abby’s culinary journey began in Laos, where she honed her baking skills while working as an interior designer, and discovered a surprising clientele among the French community.

“The French macaron is one of my top bakes,” she said. “People were amazed that I could bake them, as the process is quite tedious and difficult. But I love challenges, especially in baking.”

Her macarons, with their delicate shells and luscious fillings, quickly gained a loyal following, particularly among the French Embassy staff.

“Every month, the French Embassy would order from me,” Abby recalled. “I’m not sure how they found out about me, but I think it was through word-of-mouth within the international society.”

The wife of the French Ambassador, in particular, became a devoted fan of Abby’s macarons, often placing special orders for events and gatherings.

Starting as a hobby baker, Abby bakes and gives away her pastries for free to friends and acquaintances. At this point, it was her friends who

MANULIFE PHILIPPINES WELCOMES INDUSTRY VETERAN RHEA VIZCARRA AS NEW COO

IN CELEBRATION of MSME Development Week, TikTok Shop participated in the National MSME Summit 2024, themed “Innovate to Elevate: Empowering MSMEs for Sustainable Growth.” The event, organized by Go Negosyo in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), highlighted the importance of digitalization in empowering Filipino MSMEs.

Go Negosyo’s founder, Joey Concepcion, expressed enthusiasm about partnering with TikTok Shop

MANULIFE Philippines, a leading global financial services provider, has appointed Rachel Marie “Rhea” Vizcarra as its new chief operations officer (COO).

Vizcarra brings over 25 years of experience in the insurance industry, specializing in operations and business transformation.

She is set to lead and empower Manulife Philippines’ operations team, focusing on key initiatives to elevate customer experience, enhance operational performance, and drive innovation.

Under Vizcarra’s leadership, the team will prioritize transforming the company’s claims experience, improving overall customer satisfaction, and streamlining

to leverage its Shoppertainment format, enabling MSMEs to reach a broader audience and grow their businesses.

TikTok Shop actively contributed

processes for increased efficiency.

These efforts will also involve managing risk, enhancing productivity, and driving strategic initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable growth and solidifying Manulife’s position as a market leader.

“I am confident that she will deliver on our priorities and ongoing initiatives with our long-term strategic goals, as we further strengthen our position as one of the leading global life insurers in the Philippines, “ said Manulife president and CEO Rahul Hora.

Prior to joining Manulife, she served as the head of operations for a leading non-life insurance company and held a regional operations role covering the Asia Pacific region for another global financial services company.

LEADING ONLINE MARKET PLATFORM JOINS MSME SUMMIT 2024

to the summit with panel discussions featuring experts like Jonah Ople, who highlighted the platform’s unique ACE Framework.

Content creators like James Afante and successful sellers like Jonah Sison Ramos also shared insights on content creation and entrepreneurship, emphasizing strategies for driving business growth.

DTI undersecretary Ma. Cristina Roque acknowledged the transformative power of digitalization in enabling MSMEs to expand their reach nationwide.

encouraged her to start a pastry business.

INTERIOR DESIGNER TURNS PASSION INTO THRIVING PASTRY BUSINESS

“They even came up with the name for my business, I guess because I bake and I bike when delivering my goods back in Laos. That must have made quite an impression on them,” she said, adding that sharing her bakes gives her fulfillment.

“It was a way to bridge cultures and create connections through the universal language of food,” she said.

Her decision to return to the Philippines was deeply rooted in her desire to be closer to her family, especially her beloved grandmother. Growing up in a unique family setup, with her parents separated and siblings living overseas, Abby’s Lola had been her constant source of love and support. “For most of my life, I was raised by my grandma. Giving back, I want to spend more time with her,” Abby said. Sadly, her “Mommy Lola” passed away recently, but the significance of her Lola in Abby’s life could not be overstated. It was her grandmother who instilled in her the values of hard work, perseverance and the importance of family. These values became the foundation upon which Abby built her baking enterprise. She envisioned her pastry shop not just as a business, but as a place where people derive happiness from food.

“In life, if you really want to do something, there’s no such thing as impossible. The only thing you can do if you really want to do it is to start,” she said, while revealing plans to expand her business soon.

Her journey from interior designer to pastry chef is an inspiration to anyone who dreams of pursuing their passions and creating a life filled with sweetness and fulfillment.

Othel V. Campos

EASTERN Communications, a leading telecommunications and ICT solutions provider in the Philippines, has expanded its services to Tagbilaran City and surrounding areas in Bohol.

“Eastern Communications is expanding its reach to make its services more accessible across the Philippines. Tagbilaran City is a strategic area for growth in the Visayas region, embracing digitization initiatives and the new Bohol Business Park, projected to generate 3,000 jobs,” said “ said Eastern Communications vice president and head of sales Mike Castañeda.

The official launch, “Via Eastern,” underscored Eastern Communications’ unwavering commitment to providing accessible and reliable telecommunications and ICT solutions to businesses of all sizes in Bohol.

The expansion aims to enhance digital inclusivity across the

archipelago by bringing advanced connectivity and ICT solutions to empower local businesses and drive the province’s digital transformation. The company is dedicated to developing digital literacy in the region, with “Via Eastern” providing a platform for knowledge exchange with local government representatives, industry experts, and guest speakers on how businesses can leverage technology to achieve growth and success.

Eastern Communications’ comprehensive suite of ICT solutions aims to bridge the digital gap for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as well as large enterprises.

“Our full suite of internet and ICT solutions can be packaged to meet the unique requirements of each type of business, ensuring dependable and customized tech services for Boholanos,” said company assistant vice president Jed Estanislao.

TRUMP FALSELY ACCUSES HARRIS OF ANTI-SEMITISM

US PRESIDENTIAL candidate Donald Trump falsely accused election rival Kamala Harris of being an anti-Semite who plans to allow the murder of newborn babies, in a speech meant to rally religious supporters Friday that quickly went off the rails.

The vice president, who is married to a Jewish man, has gained ground on Trump in polling since she replaced Joe Biden on the top of the Democratic ticket just days ago.

Former Republican president Trump dedicated much of his address at a religious convention in southern Florida to assailing Harris’s record as a senator and as Biden’s

THOUSANDS

number two, but many of his attacks were smears untethered to reality.

Explaining why 59-year-old Harris had skipped Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyau’s speech to the US Congress on Wednesday to instead honor a prior commitment, Trump accused her, baselessly, of anti-Semitism. “She doesn’t like Jewish people.

She doesn’t like Israel. That’s the way it is, and that’s the way it’s always going to be. She’s not going to change,” he said.

The remark – coupled with his claim that Harris “is totally against the Jewish people” in North Carolina on Wednesday – marked an escalation in Trump’s incendiary rhetoric, days after his campaign said an attempt on his life had given him a focus on unity.

The hour-long Friday speech, hosted by hard-right Turning Point Action, raised legitimate questions over Harris’s previous statements on policing, immigration and the environment that placed her to the left of current Biden administration policy.

But it was marked by hyperbole and falsehood.

Trump – a convicted felon who is

EVACUATE AMID BIGGEST

A HUGE, fast-moving and rapidly growing wildfire in northern California has forced more than 4,000 people to evacuate as firefighters battle gusty winds and perilously dry conditions, authorities said Friday.

Fueled by a crushing heatwave, the so-called Park Fire – the most intense wildfire to hit the state this summer – has rapidly devoured nearly 240,000 acres (97,000 hectares) as of Friday night and is continuing to gain strength.

“This fire has been rapidly expanding 4,000 to 5,000 acres an hour,” incident commander Billy See said at a press conference Friday evening.

For now it is “zero percent” controlled, despite

IN BRIEF

SPACECRAFT TO SWING BY EARTH,

AUSTRALIA BANS URANIUM MINE AT INDIGENOUS SITE

AUSTRALIA

fighting multiple further indictments – suggested baselessly that the Justice Department and FBI were “rounding up” Christians and anti-abortion activists and throwing them in jail for their “religious beliefs.”

He also called Biden’s decision to exit the election campaign a “coup” by Democrats and said America was a “laughing stock.”

But he saved his darkest vitriol for Harris, calling her a “bum” and a failed vice president who had rejected federal judges for being Catholic and would appoint “hardcore Marxists” to the Supreme Court.

He also accused her falsely of wanting to force doctors to give chemical castration drugs to children and suggested she might cheat to win in November. AFP

WILDFIRE IN CALIFORNIA

the efforts of some 1,700 firefighters, according to state agency Cal Fire, with hundreds of additional resources ordered en route.

A total of 4,000 people have evacuated the towns of Cohasset and Forest Ranch, plus an additional 400 from the small city of Chico.

The blaze so far has destroyed 134 structures, authorities said.

Despite the structure losses, Butte County Fire Chief Garrett Sjolund said “many more have been saved.”

“It is a fire that is challenging our strategies, but we are finding opportunities to deploy our resources in successful ways,” Sjolund told

reporters.

The fire started Wednesday near Chico, in Butte County, and within hours had devastated a wide area there and in neighboring Tehama County. In just two days, the Park Fire has already become the 20th largest fire in California history by land area.

The blaze has generated an enormous column of dense gray smoke, with gritty clouds akin to those of a violent storm now visible in nearby US states.

Fire departments from across the state have sent crews to lend a hand. AFP

–honoring the decades-long desires of the Mirrar people. “They were seeking a guarantee that there would never be uranium mining on their land,” Albanese told a crowd of Labor Party supporters in Sydney. “This means there will never be mining at Jabiluka,” he added. Archaeologists discovered a buried trove of stone axes and tools near the Jabiluka site in 2017, which they dated at tens of thousands of years old. AFP US DEFENDS LAW FORCING SALE OF TIKTOK APP

THE Justice Department late Friday released its response to TikTok’s civil suit aimed at derailing a law that would force the app to be sold or face a US ban.

TikTok’s suit in a Washington federal court argues that the law violates First Amendment rights of free speech.

The US response counters that the law addresses national security concerns, not speech, and that TikTok’s Chinese parent company ByteDance is not able to claim First Amendment rights here.

AUSTRALIA’S foreign minister on Saturday called on Myanmar’s junta to “take a different path” from its bloody crackdown on dissent, saying the situation in the war-torn country is “not sustainable.”

Penny Wong made the comments at an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers meeting, where the crisis in ASEAN member Myanmar has divided the bloc.

The country was plunged into a civil war after the military seized power in a coup in 2021.

The filing details concerns that ByteDance could, and would, comply with Chinese government demands for data about US users or yield to pressure to censor or promote content on the platform, senior justice department officials said in a briefing. “The goal of this law is to ensure that young people, old people and everyone in between is able to use the platform in a safe manner,”a senior justice department official said. AFP

SADO MINES ADDED TO WORLD HERITAGE LIST

Weeks after it seized power and launched a crackdown on dissent the junta agreed to a five-point peace plan with ASEAN but has failed to implement it.

“Myanmar is deeply concerning, we see it in the economy, instability, insecurity, deaths,” Wong told journalists at a press conference.

“The message I want to send to the military regime is ‘this is not sustainable for you and your people.’

We urge them to take a different path and reflect the five-point consensus.”

The junta has been barred from high-level ASEAN meetings over its crackdown on dissent.

It had previously refused to send “non-political representatives” but two senior bureaucrats are

representing the country at the talks in Vientiane.

A Southeast Asian diplomat told AFP on condition of anonymity earlier this week that the military’s readiness to re-engage diplomatically was a sign of its “weakened position.”

A NETWORK of mines on a Japanese island infamous for using conscripted wartime labor was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage register Saturday after South Korea dropped earlier objections to its listing. The Sado gold and silver mines, now a popular tourist attraction, are believed to have started operating as early as the 12th century

during World War II, when Japan occupied the Korean peninsula. UNESCO confirmed the listing of the mines at its ongoing committee meeting in New Delhi on Saturday after a bid highlighting its archaeological preservation of “mining activities and social and labour organization.” AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

ON THE ROAD

BYD UNVEILS THE SEALION 6

BYD has introduced the latest addition to its leading EV lineup in the country – the Sealion 6 DM-i compact SUV. Distributed by ACMobility, the Sealion 6 DM-i is now available at BYD showrooms across the country, priced at Php 1,548,000.

Powered by BYD’s innovative Super DM-i technology, the Sealion 6 DM-i promises to address the persistent issue of range anxiety that has hindered the widespread adoption of EVs. The electric compact SUV boasts an impressive total driving distance of over 1,000 kilometers, a feat recently demonstrated in a fourday, 1,608-kilometer drive around Luzon, which was observed and documented by the Automobile

Association Philippines.

“The introduction of the Sealion 6 DM-i represents our commitment to challenging the status quo in the EV segment,” said Bob Palanca, Managing Director of BYD Cars Philippines. “ACMobility is proud to bring this pioneering model to the Philippines, showcasing our dedication to sustainable mobility solutions.”

At the heart of the Sealion 6 DM-i is BYD’s cuttingedge Super DM-i technology, which seamlessly integrates a high-performance electric motor with a range extender. This unique powertrain, paired with an Electronically-Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT), aims to provide drivers with the benefits of an EV without the limitations of range.

The Sealion 6 DM-i’s advanced powertrain features a 197 PS permanent synchronous magnet motor, an 18.3 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate Ultra-Safe BYD

HONDA EXTENDS HELPING HAND TO TYPHOON ‘CARINA’ VICTIMS WITH ‘HONDA HELPS’ PROGRAM

IN THE aftermath of the devastating super typhoon Carina, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) has announced the launch of its ‘Honda Helps’ initiative to support affected customers. Through this program, HCPI is offering a 30% discount on select spare parts for Honda vehicles damaged by the typhoon. The discounted parts include critical components such as the ECU, airbag module, engine cooling system, and electrical parts. This special offer will be available at all Honda Cars Dealers that receive inundated units until Septem ber 30, 2024.

“We are deeply saddened by the impact of super typhoon Carina on our fellow Filipinos, and we want to do our part in helping them recover,” said Rie Miyake, President of HCPI. “The ‘Honda Helps’ program is our way of supporting our loyal customers in getting their vehicles back on the road as soon as possible, ensuring their safety and restoring their mobility.” The list of discounted spare parts under the ‘Honda Helps’

ZF STREAMLINES OPERATIONS AMID GLOBAL EV SHIFT WITH REVOLUTIONARY SUPER DM-I TECHNOLOGY TO ALLEVIATE EV RANGE ANXIETY WOES

GERMAN parts manufacturer ZF announced on Friday that it will be reducing its domestic workforce in Germany by 11,000 to 14,000 positions over the next six years.

The decision to significantly downsize its German operations, which currently employ around 54,000 people, is a necessary step for the company to adapt to the shift towards electromobility. ZF CEO Holger Klein cited strong competition, cost pressures, and weak demand for electric vehicles as primary factors behind the restructuring.

“The seriousness of the situation calls for decisive action to be able to adapt the company to the tougher market and competitive environment,” Klein stated. “Restructuring our operations in Germany is needed to strengthen our competitiveness and consolidate our position as one of the world’s leading suppliers.”

The transition away from internal combustion engines has eroded demand for ZF’s traditional transmission and driveline products. At the same time, the emerging market for electric vehicle powertrains has become “highly competitive,”particularly with the rise of Chinese manufacturers.

Despite the challenges, ZF remains committed to investing heavily in electromobility. The company plans to explore potential partnerships and collaborations to remain competitive in this rapidly evolving market.

initiative includes: ECU Cooling Fan Motor

Pedal Throttle Body SRS Unit

Assembly Alternator Airbag Module EPS Starter Motor Cable Reel Heater Control Radiator Fan Motor Fuse Box (MICU) Seatbelt Pre-tensioner Honda’s commitment to quality and customer service is at the heart of this program. By making it easier for affected customers to access and replace critical components, the company aims to help them get back on the road safely and with minimal disruption to their daily lives.

Customers in need of support following the events of Carina PH can find their nearest Honda Cars Dealership by visiting the Honda website at https://www.hondaphil.com/dealer-finder. More information about the ‘Honda Helps’ program is available at https://www.hondaphil.com/promos.

As part of the restructuring, ZF will also be increasing its focus on in-car technology, vehicle chassis, industrial technology, and aftermarket services. The extent of the job cuts will ultimately depend on the future development of the markets, as the transition to electric vehicles is expected to result in some inevitable job losses in the industry. AFP

Blade Battery, and a range extender that allows for the impressive total driving distance.

Complementing its exceptional performance, the Sealion 6 DM-i boasts a bold and sleek exterior design with BYD’s innovative Ocean X Face and Glistening Combination Headlamps. The interior exudes refinement, offering leather seats with heating and ventilation, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen with advanced connectivity features.

Ensuring a safe and secure driving experience, the Sealion 6 DM-i is equipped with BYD’s DiPilot Advanced Driver Assistance System. This comprehensive suite of safety technologies includes a 360-degree view camera, intelligent cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking, among other cuttingedge features.

JAC MOTORS PHILIPPINES GEARS UP FOR STRONG GROWTH

AS the world moves towards a more sustainable future, many local car buyers are still undecided on whether to make the switch to electric vehicles (EVs). While the main advantage of EVs lies in their ability to reduce carbon footprint, conflicting and negative reports from around the globe have kept some consumers hesitant to choose these eco-friendly options as their primary mode of transportation. It’s true that the manufacturing process of EVs can contribute to higher carbon emissions initially. However, this is often offset by the environmental benefits once the vehicles hit the road. In fact, a recent study showed that one in four cars sold worldwide last year was an EV, and the market is growing rapidly, especially in China, which is neck-and-neck with the US in EV production.

The number of electric cars on the road has increased exponentially in the past three years, with over 40 million EVs globally, nearly doubling from the 26 million sold worldwide in 2022. This is an encouraging trend, but local car buyers remain hesitant, primarily due to concerns about battery range

and infrastructure limitations. While EVs with ranges of 400 to 600 kilometers may seem impressive, their actual mileage can be affected by driving conditions and behaviors, such as heavy acceleration, which can quickly drain the battery. This is a factor that local buyers need to consider when evaluating their needs and driving patterns.

In a positive development, the Ayala Group, through its ACMobility division, is actively promoting electric transportation and expanding the charging station network in its various properties and establishments. ACMobility is leading the charge, with BYD – the world’s largest EV manufacturer – reportedly holding a 68% share of the local EV market.

As a private company takes the initiative to convince local car buyers of the benefits of electric vehicles, it’s clear that the country is headed towards a more electrified future. However, addressing the lingering concerns around battery range and infrastructure will be crucial in driving widespread adoption of EVs among the local population.

PETS

THE HISTORICAL NATURAL DIET OF CATS

By Mariana Burgos

FOR thousands of years, cats have roamed diverse terrains and climates, from the savannahs of Africa and the plains of India to the forests of Eurasia and the Americas. Cats’ evolution as obligate carnivores shaped their dietary needs and behaviors, according to the article "Natural Feeding for Cats" from the New Plymouth District Vet Group website.

Unlike dogs, which have adapted to a more omnivorous diet, cats have always required a diet primarily composed of fresh, whole prey animals. This includes rodents, birds, reptiles, and insects for smaller cats, and larger prey such as buffalo and deer for big cats.

Whole Prey Diet

Cats traditionally consumed their prey in its entirety, which includes the muscle meat, organs, bones, and even the gut contents. This method of eating provided them with a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Consuming the whole animal ensured that cats ingested all necessary proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. This whole-prey diet naturally met the high protein requirement of cats, which is essential for their health due to their inability to synthesize certain amino acids, like taurine, during times of protein restriction.

The Problem with Modern Commercial Diets

Today, the abundance of processed cat food— both canned and dry—presents a stark contrast to their natural diet. Many commercial cat food rely on rendered proteins of poor quality, often from non-meat sources. This affects the digestibility and nutritional value of the food, leading to various health issues. For instance, the protein levels in most commercial diets are insufficient, especially for aging cats, resulting in muscle mass loss. Moreover, these diets often contain high carbohydrate levels, which cats have not evolved to digest effectively. This can lead to overeating and related health problems according to the New Plymouth District Vet Group.

Hydration and Health Concerns

Cats have also evolved to obtain most of their water from the fresh prey they consume.

The New Plymouth District Vet Group said that the lower moisture content in dry kibble diets can place additional stress on their kidneys and digestive system, potentially leading to chronic dehydration and related health issues.

Raw Food Diet: A Return to Natural Feeding Mimicking a wild-type diet within the home is possible through careful preparation of raw food. The New Plymouth District Vet Group said this approach requires knowledge and consultation with a veterinarian familiar with raw feeding to ensure the diet is balanced and suited to the individual cat. The goal is to replicate the nutritional benefits of a whole prey diet by providing a variety of raw meats and avoiding preservatives and poor-quality ingredients.

Basic Rules for Raw Feeding

A successful raw food diet for cats involves offering a variety of raw meats to provide a full spectrum of amino acids and nutrients. Initially, ground meats with bone content can ease the transition to raw feeding. Over time, whole meaty bones can be introduced to help maintain dental health and engage cats' natural chewing behaviors. It is crucial to avoid meats with preservatives, which can trigger allergic reactions, and to incorporate small amounts of pureed vegetables to replicate the gut contents of prey animals, according to the New Plymouth District Vet Group.

The Role of Bones and Organ Meats Feed-

CAN DOGS EAT CHEESE? RISKS

By Niko Gabriel Salgado

CHEESE is a dairy product made from milk, produced in a wide range of flavors, textures, and forms. Its versatility makes it a favorite in various dishes. When it comes to our canine companions, the question is: can dogs eat cheese? The answer is not straightforward. While cheese can be safe for some dogs, it can be problematic for others.

Nutritional Benefits of Cheese for Dogs

“Cheese is packed with nutrients that can be beneficial for dogs when given in moderation. It is a rich source of protein, essential for muscle development and repair,” said Dr. Amanda Bates in “Is Cheese Safe for Dogs?” published in the Canine Society website.

Cheese also contains calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. Certain types of cheese provide vitamins A and B, promoting healthy skin, coat, and metabolic functions.

Cheese as a Training Aid

Many dog owners find cheese to be an effective training tool. Its strong aroma and taste can make it an irresistible treat, useful for reinforcing good behavior. Small cheese cubes or shreds can be given as rewards during training sessions, help- ing to motivate and encourage dogs.

Lactose Intolerance in Dogs

One of the primary concerns with feeding cheese to dogs is lactose intolerance. Dogs, like some humans, can have difficulty digesting lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products.

According to Dr. Bates the following are symptoms of lactose intolerance in dogs:

·Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools can indicate that a dog is not digesting lactose properly.

·Gas: Excessive flatulence may occur due to undigested lactose fermenting in the colon.

·Vomiting: Some dogs may vomit after consuming dairy products.

·Abdominal discomfort: Signs of pain or discomfort, such as whining or restlessness, can suggest digestive distress.

If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms after eating cheese, it is best to avoid dairy products altogether.

Types of Cheese and Their Suitability

Not all cheeses are created equal when it

ing raw meaty bones, such as chicken wings and necks, is vital for a balanced raw diet. These bones provide essential minerals and help maintain dental health. The New Plymouth District Vet Group said that it is important to ensure that bones are raw and appropriately sized to prevent choking or dental fractures. Organ meats, such as liver, heart, and kidney, should also be included regularly, as they are rich in essential vitamins and taurine.

Nutritional Balance and Supplementation

A well-balanced raw diet typically does not require additional vitamin or mineral supplements. However, some situations may necessitate supplementation under veterinary supervision to prevent imbalances. Transitioning to a raw diet can take time, and older cats or those with specific health issues may need special considerations, such as lightly cooking the food or starting with poached meats.

Addressing Potential Health Concerns

Feeding a balanced raw diet reduces the risk of health issues associated with processed foods. The New Plymouth District Vet Group

AND BENEFITS

comes to feeding them to dogs. Some varieties are safer and more suitable than others. Here are a few common types:

·Cheddar: Cheddar cheese is generally low in lactose and can be safe in small amounts. It is high in fat, so moderation is key.

·Cottage Cheese: This cheese is lower in fat and lactose, making it a better option for dogs. Its soft texture also makes it easy to digest.

·Mozzarella: Mozzarella cheese, especially the part-skim variety, can be a good choice due to its lower fat content.

·Blue Cheese: Avoid blue cheese altogether. It contains Roquefortine C, a substance toxic to dogs, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death.

·Cream Cheese: This can be given in very small amounts. It is high in fat and lactose, so it should be used sparingly.

Risks of Feeding Cheese to Dogs

While cheese can be a delightful treat, it also carries potential risks:

·Obesity: Cheese is calorie-dense and high in fat. Regular consumption can contribute to weight gain and obesity, leading to health problems such as diabetes and joint issues.

·Pancreatitis: High-fat foods like cheese can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially serious inflammation of the pancreas.

·Salt Content: Some cheeses are high in salt, which can lead to sodium ion poisoning if consumed in large quantities. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures.

Guidelines for Feeding Cheese to Dogs

To ensure that cheese is a safe and enjoyable treat for your dog, follow these guidelines:

1.Moderation is Key: Offer cheese as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your dog's diet. Small amounts can go a long way.

2.Monitor for Lactose Intolerance: Start with

said that cats on a raw diet have more acidic stomach acid, which, combined with antibacterial enzymes in their saliva and a short digestive tract, makes them less susceptible to pathogens. Ensuring high-quality meat sources and proper food handling can mitigate risks for both cats and their owners. Understanding the natural diet of cats provides valuable insights into their nutritional needs and the shortcomings of many commercial diets. By mimicking the whole prey diet through raw feeding, cat owners can offer a more nutritionally appropriate diet that promotes overall health and well-being. As obligate carnivores, cats thrive on a diet rich in animal proteins and essential nutrients found in fresh, whole prey, emphasizing the importance of returning to their natural dietary roots.

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist, writer, and tutor. She has been a solo parent for 17 years now because she is the wife of Jonas Burgos, a Filipino desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.

tiny pieces of cheese and observe your dog for any signs of digestive upset.

3. Choose Low-Fat Varieties: Opt for lower-fat cheeses like cottage cheese or part-skim mozzarella to reduce the risk of obesity and pancreatitis.

4.Avoid High-Salt Cheeses: Select cheeses with lower sodium content to prevent potential salt-related health issues.

5.Consult Your Veterinarian: If you have any concerns or if your dog has underlying health conditions, consult your veterinarian before introducing cheese into their diet. Dogs can eat cheese, but it should be given with caution and in moderation. Cheese can offer nutritional benefits and serve as an effective training aid. It is important to be mindful of the risks associated with lactose intolerance, obesity, and pancreatitis. By choosing appropriate cheese types and following guidelines, you can safely incorporate cheese into your dog's diet as an occasional treat. Always monitor your dog's reaction to new foods and consult your veterinarian to ensure their overall health and well-being.

About the Author: Niko Gabriel Salgado is a graduate of consular and diplomatic affairs from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and worked at the House of Representatives. He is now an entrepreneur and a volunteer of the animal welfare group Save Animals of Love and Light- Save ALL.

A black cat is studying his dry kibble cat food.

(Photo from iStock royalty-free images.)

A black and white cat is given a balanced raw diet.

(Photo from iStock royaltyfree images.)

An orange kitten is eating commercialized wet cat food.

(Photo from iStock royalty-free images.)

Cheese has a savory

(Photo from Pexels | Polina Tankilev)

CRAVINGS INGS

A CELEBRATION OF FOOD:

By Gabriellea Parino

FOOD is the glue that holds families together. From daily meals to dinner parties during birthdays and Christenings, food connects human souls in all celebrations. Warm smiles, warm laughter, and warm and full tummies.

These parties, although some are celebrated in the comfort of our homes, are sometimes held outside in our favorite spots. May it be breakfast after mass in your favorite carinderia, or your favorite childhood restaurant to eat in after a long flight from your out-of-town vacation, restaurants have given a new sense of nostalgia which reminds us of the fondest of memories.

These establishments with humble beginnings have brought themselves up from family-owned eateries to expanded franchises both locally and abroad. The key to their long-breathed success is owed to several factors, mostly rooted on the people who patronize their establishments.

one generation to the other,” Chef Myke Tatung told Manila Standard Cravings in an interview. The restauranteurs, like those who patronize them, have preserved the traditions of their establishments by keeping the next generation in the loop.

restaurant in the county. Catering to heroes such as Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio, it has born its mark in the histories - even earn-ing a mention in one of the former’s novels. They have since then maintained serving flavorful Chinese dishes.

“The customers, as well as the restaurants, stay true to their traditions. They continue to eat there and patronize the business, passed from

The infamous restaurant at the heart of the city opened its door in 1888 and is known as the oldest

Alvin Wong, the current owner of the establishment, inherited the restaurant from his grandfather who bought the place from a group of Chinese who decided to move back to China. Ever since, they have remained fateful to serving a taste of China.

“We always come back here for the fried rice and the Asado,” Forty-year-old Lancel Cruz said in an exclusive interview.

Cruz, an avid lover of Chinese cuisine, dines in the restaurant every payday with both family and friends as it is near his home and place of work.

Among the dishes favored by the crowd are their pancit guisado and yang chow fried rice.

2. Dainty House (Iloilo); 1929

Much loved by the Ilongos, Dainty House was founded in 1929, originally erected in Ledesma Street, Iloilo City. It then moved to JM Basa Street in 1940 before finally being relocated to Iznart Street where it still stands today.

Among the many dishes it serves, it is most famous for its pancit guisado, bihon guisado, siopao, and pan de leche which have left tourists wanting for more since it was first established.

“It’s where my mama and papa met back in the 80s, so I’d like to say it’s sort of a part of their love story and the food is certainly an aphrodisiac,” Ramon Ernesto, 37, said in an interview.

He now returns to the restaurant with his wife, Marla, and two children: Isabel and Katya - with the bihon guisado being a great family favorite.

3. Digman Halo-Halo and Homemade Siopao (Bacoor, Cavite); 1940s

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10 OF THE OLDEST RESTAURANTS ACROSS THE PHILIPPINES

For the summer lovers, halo-halo has been a long-time favorite among Filipinos. The dessert mainly consisting of shaved ice, evaporated milk, leche flan, jellies, beans, and fruit cocktails, has long been a favorite to battle the heat.

In Bacoor, Cavitenos have favored Digman’s Halo-Halo which was established in the 1940s. Their halohalo consists of macapuno, kaong, nata, ube, and the sweet leche flan. Alongside this, customers have also expressed their favorite to be that of the restaurant’s grilled barbeque and Filipino-style spaghetti.

“We’ve been eating there for two years since we moved to Cavite,” Ralph Mendones, formerly from Quezon City, said.

Often dining in the restaurant with his parents, his family acquired a taste for Digman’s classic halo-halo and leche flan. Turn to C2

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1. Toho Panciteria Antigua (1888); Binondo, Manila

Mendones described the halo-halo as “the most authentic” one he has tasted. “It doesn’t need table sugar to have that sweet taste,” he added.

Mendones added that a possible key to the success of the restaurant was its respect and guidance from the Virgin Mary, whose statue stood by the entrance of the establishment.

CRAVINGS INGS

tral vision focuses on bringing the family together.

and

Snack na Swak: A Balanced Pathway to Wellbeing

“At one time, family compounds were built around a large central home. This Balay Dako became the gathering place. It was where family and friends would come together to commemorate life's significant events. Baptisms, birthdays and weddings and even funerals became occasions for remembrance, celebration and more importantly, family,” their website reads.

The translation of the name in Negrense means “Big House.” Among the favorites of customers are the chicken inasal and pastel de lengua.

“I look forward to the ambiance of the place whenever we return to Tagaytay. It’s like a home away from our home in the province,” Nikolai Aquino said in an interview, highlighting the pata tim as a classic favorite.

“The more crews are all smiles from the moment you enter the restaurant to going home. Also, I believe that one way to a person’s heart is through their stomach,” she added.

Located in the historic city of Vigan in Ilocos Sur, Irene’s Vigan Empanada springs two branches, one in Calle Salcedo and the other in Calle Crisologo.

8. Matutina’s Seafood Restaurant (Dagupan, Pangasinan); 1982

Another establishment serving fresh dishes from straight under the sea is Matutina’s located in Dagupan and in Urdaneta and was established in 1982. Its specialties include fresh seafood, Filipino dishes, sizzlers, and inihaw. Among the favorites highlighted are calamares and seafood kare-kare.

“We

• Snacks company Mondelēz International advocates for Snacking Mindfully

• Global survey shows snacking helps fuel need for Well-Being

SNACKS are no longer just for hunger. This is the insight that a survey on snacking trends has reported about consumers all over the world. With this growing role that snacks play in consumers’ lives, Mondelēz International advocates for a practice called Mindful Snacking. This means focusing on eating snacks with intention and attention. The company aims to help consumers make conscious and informed food choices and cultivate a positive relationship with food for overall well-being.

The global survey on snacking behaviors is called the State of Snacking survey. Now on its fifth edition, the survey was undertaken by Mondelēz International globally, together with The Harris Poll. This year’s findings mark a half-decade of discovery around global consumer trends, which have continued to reinforce the timeless role of snacks in daily lives. Mondelēz International is a global leader in snacking and in the Philippines is one of the leading snacks manufacturers, producing such beloved brands as Oreo, Cadbury Dairy Milk, Toblerone, Tang, Eden Cheese, and Cheez Whiz.

Snacks meet a variety of needs

The survey has shown a significant shift towards mindful snacking among consumers. They are not just seeking satisfaction from their snacks; they are also looking for nutritional balance, choosing snacks to align with their personal health and well-being goals more closely. Snacking has a positive emotional halo as well. Satisfaction and mindful enjoyment are top emotions experienced by those surveyed when snacking. Based on the survey, as much as 74% of consumers snack to improve their mood, as well as to boost their energy.

Portion control also is the way consumers are able to balance their snacks. According to the survey insights, portions of their favorite snacks help them feel in control of their snacking choices without a sense of sacrifice. Seven in ten (7/10) of those surveyed report that they would rather have a smaller portion of an indulgent snack than a bigger portion of a low fat/sugar alternative version.

Despite having been established in 1930, it only earned its name in 2004 when its owner, Irene Santos, decided to incorporate her name to the infamous brand.

The city’s most famous empanadas consist of a crunchy shell, shredded papaya, and a lot more to fill the tastebuds.

Mindful Snacking: How to do it?

Mondelēz International encourages consumers to practice Mindful Snacking to help them experience more pleasure and satisfaction when snacking.

Snacking Mindfully is a behavioral approach that focuses on eating with intention and attention, having awareness of feelings of hunger and fullness, and focusing on the sensory experience with food. Locally, this practice is being called “Snack na Swak.”

Snacking Mindfully can be practiced with six simple behaviors inspired by a holistic approach:

1. Recognize what you want (emotional and functional needs)

2. Be aware of portion size and moderate it

3. Enjoy and appreciate the snack with all your senses

4. Be present in the moment – remove distractions

5. Be aware of your hunger, fullness, and satisfaction level

6. Reflect on your whole eating experience

To support consumers’ desires to snack mindfully, Mondelēz International offers portion-controlled packs of its products. This means that every pack contains only two hundred calories or less, providing the right size for consumers’ snacking needs. By 2025, the Company aims to deliver up to 100% of its net revenue through Mindful Portion Snacks, those in either individually wrapped mindful portion packs or with mindful portion labeling on pack.

As the State of Snacking survey shows, the future of snacking is vibrant and evolving. By aligning its offerings with the macro-trends shaping consumer preferences, Mondelēz International is wellpositioned to continue meeting the changing needs of consumers across the globe, one Mindful Snack at a time! Time to Snack na Swak!

To know more about Mindful Snacking visit https:// www.snackmindful.com/

“My children absolutely loved the empanadas. They found one order is not enough, so they ordered more,” Eloisa Jacinto who recently went to visit the shop in Vigan for the first time, told Manila Standard Cravings.

Aside from the Empanadas, Irene’s now also serves Filipino breakfast dishes such as the Vigan longganisa.

“This one I’ll keep coming back for is their Vigan longganisa. It’s not too salty or fatty, which is exactly what my spouse and I prefer,” Eloisa added.

To get the full experience of Irene’s, Eloisa and her family ordered different dishes at every visit.

7. 18th Street Pala-Pala Seafood Grill and Restaurant (Bacolod, Negros Occidental); 1970s

Resourcefully using the specialty of Negros, 18th street Pala-Pala Seafood Grill has been around since the ‘70s. Specializing in a variety of seafood dishes, the establishment boasts of freshly harvested seafood that may be cooked in many ways: from fish to prawn.

“Our dedicated staff meticulously prepare every piece of your seafood selections to ensure you experience the true taste of palapala,” a post from the restaurant’s Facebook page reads. Another family-owned restaurant, it owed its beginnings to the family’s love of seafood dishes.

“Our family really loved to eat seafood and we decided to put up a restaurant that caters to seafood all over Negros,” Sylvia Golez, the owner, previously said in an interview. Among the customers’ favorite dishes are tinolang lapu-lapu and manumbok sizzling.

“It

Among

buttered chicken, original fried rice, and their pancit shanghai.

“We had one of our earlier dates there that’s why we decided to use it for our babies’ christening reception,” Alice Marquez said in an interview. She and her husband Mike noted that Boy Ching Woo became a witness to the growth of their relationship as it became a favorite date spot.

Established in 1929, the ninety-five-year-old establishment survived historical milestones.

“It’s like you’re going back in time whenever you eat there,” Cami Perez, a journalism student, emphasized in an interview with Manila Standard.

As the establishment is near her dorm, Cami often eats dinner with friends and classmates in the said establishment.

“The sweet and sour fish is certainly a favorite along with the lumpiang shanghai,” The affordable yet big proportions of food served were what attracted Cami and her friends when they first dined there.

The fried chicken is also an honorable mention among the bestsellers.

Among the best, the most flavorful, and the oldest, lies the secret of survival. And among the many factors, the family’s preservation of their traditions is important.

“I think for one, especially for family run restaurants, is the general grit of the family through the generations and through the decades,” Chef Tatung said. Tatung emphasized the importance of adapting with the times, especially with the changing taste of customers.

“Triggered by social media, and accessibility ng travel ng tao and diaspora ng migration and all that. Dati if you looked around, wala naman access to all these ingredients and importation laws have changed,” he said.

Besides accessibility, other factors are now considered by customers beyond mere taste of food: presentation, the ambiance of the restaurant, and reviews and recommendations made by peers.

“Image is the basis of marketing. Andaming factors, because of social media, di lang food ang labanan kung hindi pati aesthetic, plating. Ang taste generally for food has gone beyond the conversation of the food itself. Meron na din dining experience, story, at history,” Chef Tatung said.

5. Balay Dako (Tagaytay, Cavite); 1948

Dako,

6. Irene’s Vigan Empanada (Vigan, Ilocos Sur); 1930

10. Ramon Lee’ Panciteria (Sta. Cruz, Manila); 1929

JOYCE PANGCO PAÑARES, Issue Editor

CRAVINGS INGS

CRAVINGS

EAT WELL AND LIVE HEALTHY

Inspired by the idea behind ‘blue zones’ around the world,

By Maris David

EVERYONE has their own definition of paradise but its most common picture is a place where people eat and live well, where they are surrounded by nature, fresh air, and a thriving community that given them an abundance of the good things in life. Experts have revealed numerous times that living a balanced lifestyle within this kind of environment—as proven by studies on so-called “blue zones,” or regions around the world where people live extraordinarily long, better lives—can effectively lengthen and enrich one’s quality of life.

CONTINUING the tradition of gathering the best in the industry, McCormick Culinary’s Together, We Flavor 2024 once again brings the spotlight on the ever-changing food service with this year’s theme: The Newstalgic Gastronomic Experience.

“Since 2000, our signature Flavor Forecast has pinpointed

Now, picture this: you wake up to the sun rising over the horizon, enjoy a hearty breakfast, step out and go for a walk, and be instantly greeted by rows and rows of flowers built to resemble a rainbow arc in your backyard. Suddenly, you also hear the sound of gently flowing water from the river just beyond your fence, before being mesmerized by the chorus of chirping birds nesting within a tunnel of greens just a few steps from your front door. This is the kind of everyday life that awaits future residents and visitors of the 251-hectare Arden Botanical Estate, the Philippines’ first-ever botanicalthemed township located at the boundary of Trece Martires City and the municipality of Tanza in Cavite.   Jointly developed by property giant Megaworld, the country’s leading developer of integrated urban townships, and its subsidiary Global-Estate Resorts, Inc. (GERI), the

opments whether in the retail market, food service or for collaborative customized projects for our valued partner accounts,” said Rebecca Ann K. Sy, CEO of McCormick Philippines.

sprawling Arden Botanical Estate will be surrounded by a variety of waterways and organic gardens, and feature wide, tree-lined roads and avenues, lotus ponds, as well as residential and leisure villages, commercial areas, sports and adventure parks, and a mixed-use district among others.

This year's Flavor Forecast includes Sour Power, which is about is revolutionizing sourness, focusing on balance, creativity, and mak-

Residential and leisure villages will form more than half of Arden Botanical Estate. To date, Megaworld has introduced two (2) sprawling villages within the township: the 18.1-hectare Arden Botanical Village and the 15.2-hectare Arden Westpark Village. GERI, meanwhile, has launched the three phases of its very own village, the 18.3-hectare The Lindgren, which offers 11 different Scandinavian-inspired house and lot design options. Live longer within a sustainable township

“Given the chance to pick a place

Arden Botanical Estate promises future residents a long life worth living

to live in, most of us will usually choose one where you can be part of a community that can help you live a balanced and well-rounded lifestyle. Arden Botanical Estate does exactly that. Living in this township is a step towards enjoying a longer and more fulfilled life,” says Rowena EspirituLim, head of sales and marketing, GERI.

agents; Thoughtfully Borrowed, an intentional approach to new-age fusion through regional-traditional cooking; and Indulgence Redefined, a personalization of indulgence today. Tamarind, a tangy and versatile fruit popular in Asian cuisine, is celebrated as the Flavor of the Year. Its unique sweet and sour notes add depth to both savory and sweet dishes, enhancing sauces, curries, beverages, and desserts. Tamarind’s ability to blend harmoniously with various ingredients while standing out with its distinctive taste makes it a favorite among chefs and food enthusiasts, inviting new flavor explorations. This versatile fruit is now making waves in global gastronomy, appearing from Worcestershire Sauce to refreshing beverages.

Megaworld has commissioned renowned Filipino landscape architect and environmental planner Paulo Alcazaren to put together the design behind Arden Botanical Village and the 8.3-hectare Arden Botanical Estate Town Center, a sprawling and vibrant hub that will have commercial and retail spaces, alfresco dining areas, landscaped gardens, parks, an events place, and children’s playground, among others. It will also feature its own Lombard Walk, a Breathing Chapel, an amphitheater, flower garden, flower tunnel, and more.

Alcazaren also happens to be the man behind the Centrera Park, the central amenity area at Arden Botanical Village that will be surrounded by natural groves of mature trees, waterways and ponds, sprawling greeneries, expansive open spaces, promenades and parks, and jogging paths.

McCormick Flavor Forecast is an annual report created by the Global McCormick

Meanwhile, traversing the entire township from the entrance along Governor’s Drive in Tanza is a six-

Team that uncovers on-point predictions and trends that influence the future of flavor. The forecast is the results of studies in over 10 global locations, uncovering 1,000 trend signals, and more than 290 restaurant explorations. McCormick’s Sour Power trends are not just based on the pucker-up moments but rather about embracing bold, tangy flavors that wake up one’s palate and add a thrilling twist to any dish. They are also about layers of flavor and craveability which are brought to food and drink through acidic agents. From tamarind to coconut vinegar, acidic agents are boosting craveability with sour stepping into the spotlight. McCormick puts the spotlight not only on vinegars but on citrus and sour fruits, fermenting and pickling – rolling out customized sauces such as Shoyu Vinegar, Yuzu Chili, and Shoyu Tamarind. Thoughtfully Borrowed, on the other hand, is tagged as the evolution of fusion-cooking as it combines ingredients and techniques from

lane, tree-lined avenue that leads to the Welcome Pavilion and the Town Center, which will both be surrounded by arcaded and alfresco commercial areas. Residents, workers, and visitors of the township will also be able to go around the township via an electric shuttle. Arden Botanical Estate will also have its own Flower Farm, Flower Tunnel, The Little Botanist playground, and the first-of-itskind Breathing Chapel, allowing residents and visitors to commune with nature and enjoy the bounty and beauty of Philippine flora. Just a short drive from the Metro

“This groundbreaking botanicalthemed township isn’t just beautiful, it’s strategically positioned at the center of Cavite’s booming infrastructure,” says Eugene Em Lozano, head of sales and marketing, Megaworld.

Arden Botanical Estate is only about an hour away from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) via the Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway (CAVITEX). The Silang Interchange of Cavite-TagaytayBatangas Expressway (CTBEx) will be a convenient 45-minute drive, and the Governor’s Drive Interchange of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) a mere 15 minutes away. The future Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge, meanwhile, will also be just a quick 15-minute drive, opening

IN THIS BLOOMING CAVITE TOWNSHIP

up even more accessibility to the township.

Even more exciting is the fact that the township will also serve as a gateway to popular tourist destinations, like Tagaytay in Cavite and Nasugbu in Batangas which are only about an hour away.

different cultures but basing them on familiar platforms. More than being artistic, Thoughtfully Borrowed recipes are rooted in authenticity, and McCormick’s interpretation of this trend includes customized sauces such as Truffle Ranch, Lemongrass Aioli and Sriracha Applewood Barbeque. In Indulgence Redefined, bold and nuanced flavors come in all shapes and forms. From Newstalgic food to flavor Maximalism, this trend gives importance to personal expression and unique experiences. Familiar and nostalgic flavors are given an updated take, flavorful zings like lime, hibiscus, chili, cilantro, and more. To amplify this trend, McCormick presented different flavors of Frozen Slush through their customized creation of syrups like Jelly Ace, Ice Pop, and Tropical Passion.

“We hope that the trends that we shared will inspire our audience in their big product launch or menu

ation with McCormick as their flavor partner. We would gladly help you turn your visions into reality,”

Arden Botanical Estate is fast taking shape as a one-of-a-kind township development that allows everyone—whether they are residents, workers, or simply visitors—to live and enjoy a beautiful and purposeful life within an enviable address. Among the other recent developments in the township include the Arden Bike Trails, which hosts seasonal offroad activities for trail cycling and rallycross events. There’s also the Arden Café, an Instagrammable café-and-showroom-in-one that serves as an exclusive property viewing area for clients interested in starting their own chapters within the township. Aside from the generous open and green spaces around the development, Arden Botanical Estate will also feature other sustainability elements, such as the use of solar street lights, electric shuttles for transport, stormwater recycling, permeable pavements for driveways and parking, and organic fertilizers and pesticides for gardens.

McCormick's customized sauces: Sriracha Applewood, Yuzu Chili, Lemongrass Aioli, Shoyu Tamarind, Truffle Ranch, and Shoyu Vinegar

Designed to be a sustainable township, Arden Botanical Estate allows residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature while also having easy access to modern conveniences.

Natural waterways and wide, tree-lined streets create a relaxing streetscape for future residents of Arden Botanical Village.

By Ratziel San Juan

THE riddle of where to get the best lechon (roasted pig) in Cebu is one asked by every outsider to which they receive a different answer depending on who they ask.

"Carcar," one local answered. “Talisay," another might reply. Occasionally, they may even respond with a specific joint in a particular locality. In most cases, the best lechon comes from where the person answering lives.

The result? You end up tasting every single lechon you encounter on the road to see for yourself which one is the best.

Tasting menu

It is no wonder then that Cebu among other Philippine destinations served as the host of the first United Nations (UN) Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific. Home to lechon, humba, pancit bam-i, and other local dishes, the island is no stranger to diverse flavors.

That is why on the occasion of the forum, attended by over 500 international delegates, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

“The Department of Tourism (DOT) is thrilled to announce that we are going all out to promote the Philippines’ vibrant gastronomy and food culture as we host the inaugural (forum),” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.

“In line with this, we have gathered a remark-

CRAVINGS INGS

FOOD TRIP: MAPPING GASTRONOMY TOURISM IN CEBU

able lineup of world-renowned and award-winning Filipino chefs, as well as beloved chefs from different regions of the country, to showcase the richness of Filipino cuisine and highlight the diversity of our local ingredients as we invite our guests to ‘Eat their way through the Philippines,’” she added. The event indeed featured a regional lunch, consisting of a buffet of dishes across the country’s network of cuisines.

Present at the venue were Chef Waya AraosWijangco (Cordillera Administrative Region), Chef Xavier Mercado (Region 1), Chef Jehan Damasco (Region 2), Chef Howard Dizon (Region 3), the Lyceum of the Philippines University Culinary Institute - Laguna (Region 4A), Chef Nathaniel Imson (Region 4B), Chef Andhei Nacion (Region 5), Chef Ariel Castañeda and Chef Paul Dane Aligaer (Region 6), Chef June Rhoses Fernandez (Region 7), Chef Rolf Arwin Lopez Y (Region 8), Chef Jose Mari Alavar Alfaro (Region 9), Chef Ruthcini Marie Tabiqu (Region 10), Chef Clinton Gregorio and Renante Raseroni (Region 11), Chef Ronald Ferman (Region 12), Chef Yvette Atis (Region 13), and Chef Tahir Malikol and Chef Miguel Cabel Moreno (Office of Muslim Affairs and Mindanao Promotions).

These chefs personally served and explained the craft that went behind their iterations of famed Filipino food like traditional Kapampangan sisig to more adventurous takes like laksa palabok.

“The event will not only elevate the Philippines as a gastronomic destination but also provide a platform for collaboration and exchange of knowledge among international culinary experts. We look forward to a successful forum that will provide impetus to positioning the Philippines as a preferred culinary haven for travelers and gastronomy tourism destination,” Frasco said.

A bold undertaking it might seem, but the Tourism Department definitely succeeded in representing the variety of flavor profiles peppered throughout our country’s more than 7,000 islands.

Melting pot

Aside from being the site of the UN Tourism Regional Forum as well

as the 36th Joint Commission Meeting of the Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and the Commission for South Asia (CAP-CSA), Cebu also hosted technical tours to help visualize gastronomy tourism in motion.

Delegates, in close coordination with the Provincial Government of Cebu, respectively toured the Camotes Islands, Argao and Dalaguete, and Bojo in Aloguinsan.

For instance, the towns of Argao and Dalaguete toward southern Cebu have maintained a wealth of historical and cultural sites. These include well-preserved churches that serve as prominent pilgrimage sites attracting religious tourists and contributing to Cebu’s faith-based tourism industry.

Of course, such are relics of Spanish colonial architecture and designated National Historical Landmarks. These hence pass down a rich colonial history that in turn influences the culinary heritage of Argao and Dalaguete.

The result is the renowned “torta” that has become a must-try staple of Cebu’s heritage towns. This refers to a local cake prepared with egg yolks and fermented coconut milk, prepared manually right before your eyes as the cooking methodology was also faithfully preserved.

Throughout the journey, delegates were also able to purchase various crafts and culinary goods from locals themselves, a simple act that will surely go a long way in keeping the circle of gastronomy tourism going.

“These interactions will yield valuable collaborations that will boost our local economy and enhance our reputation as a culinary hotspot,” UN Tourism Ambassador for Gastronomy Tourism Chef Margarita Forés said.

She makes a good case for gastronomy tourism, which has become a major driver for travel among tourists everywhere.

According to the World Food Travel Association, around 80 percent of travelers research food and drink while visiting a destination, with more than half classified as “culinary travelers.”

Surely enough, it is a valuable market that the Philippine tourism sector has its eye on. And they are keenly aware that gastronomy tourism is more than just promoting food trips.

“As we intensify our diversification of the country's tourism portfolio through multidimensional tourism, we strongly see food as a crucial element in enhancing the Philippine cultural experience,” Frasco said.

“In addition to integrating food in festivals, arts and crafts, traditions, and practices, we are actively working towards supporting the development of halal/Muslim-friendly tourism, heritage villages for cultural communities, and the preservation of farms and heritage sites,” she added.

One for the road

All that aside, there is one riddle that remains unanswered: So which is the best lechon after all?

You learn that they could all possibly be right.

Each lechon is distinct, differently but equally appealing. One may have crispier, more glassy skin, while another has tastier, more succulent meat.

Answering this riddle of the best Cebu lechon is the key to understanding the science that is gastronomy tourism, as well as unlocking the full potential of tourist destinations everywhere. That is, traveling is always the answer. But it is one you will have to see for yourself.

Lechon manok

Tuna sashimi

Argao, famous for its legendary 'torta,' also offers native lechon as part of its culinary tourism efforts.

CRAVINGS INGS

UNILEVER Philippines’ Nutrition business unit marked its 22nd year of nutrition advocacy with a call to action for partners and stakeholders to continue the fight against undernutrition in the country.

Led by its biggest food brand, Knorr, the company announced its commitment of reaching 15 million lives by 2030 under the Knorr NutriSarap program and Makulay ang Buhay program.

“Our agricultural ingredients from the Philippines are 100 percent sustainably sourced, thereby contributing to the livelihood and continued upskilling of Filipino farmers. Previous investments made in efficient manufacturing operations have a positive impact on the value chain and help reduce our overall impact on the environment. We take great care on how we bring our products to consumers, from farm to fork,” Unilever Philippines Chairman and CEO Fredy Ong said. He credited Unilever’s sustainable business model, where business performance integrates sustainability, as having enabled the company to grow the business and do more for its communities.

Knorr brand representatives, Hanna Laurel-Villaroman and Hannah Banocnoc, shared that the Nutri-Sarap program together with the Makulay

ang Buhay program have reached 12.5 million lives cumulatively.

Villaroman said the intention is to scale program impact and reach its 2030 ambition.

Building on the success of NutriSarap, Knorr also launched an improved Nutrition Education toolkit and fortified its products with critical micronutrients lacking in most Filipino dishes – the pork cubes now have iron, the sinigang mix has Vitamin C, and the soup bases have Vitamin A.

“Each nutritious, delicious, and affordable recipe shared and each household empowered through education, contributes to a healthier future for our country. We are very proud and very grateful that while Knorr and Unilever Nutrition has championed this for the last 22 years, the next decade will be brought to life by more nutrition advocates across the country,” said Marinelle Villanueva, Unilever Philippines Nutrition Business Unit Lead.

“Our recipe book empowers mothers by giving them choices to make delicious and nutritious meals within

CEO,

Knorr Brand Ambassador Abi Marquez prepares monggo nuggets, a healthy and affordable dish

THE Makati-based The Curator bagged a spot in Asia's 50 Best Bars for a second consecutive year, the only Filipino bar to make it to the prestigious list.

The Curator, which placed 33rd on the list, was described as being “dedicated to two of the very finest things in life: caffeinated beverages and mixed drinks.”

“Since its 2016 opening in Legaspi Village, Makati, it has been ranked in the 1-50 Best list eight times and once in the extended 51-100 list, this year winning the accolade as The Best Bar in the Philippines for a fourth time.”

“The understated bar plays host to a regular schedule of international bartender takeovers and majors in Filipino spirits. The beautifully designed menu centres around notable figures, with cocktails designed for each accompanied by a fun description and flavor map.”

In a post on Facebook, The Curator wrote: “We’re proud of how we do things. We’re proud of why we do things. But we’re most proud of who we do it for and who we do it with.”

The Hong Kong Tourism Board proudly partnered with Asia’s 50 Best Bars to bring the event – one of the region’s most prestigious annual surveys of cocktail tastes and trends – to the city.

The multi-day festival-like celebration saw the region’s best bar talent headlining guest shifts at some of Hong Kong’s most

PH'S THE CURATOR LANDS IN ASIA'S 50 BEST BARS FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

A FORCE FOR GOOD IN FOOD: UNILEVER CELEBRATES NUTRITION FROM FARM TO FORK

their budget,” added Banocnoc.

Collaborating with local chefs and nutritionists, and the DOSTFNRI, Knorr developed 63 nutritious, budget-friendly breakfast, lunch, and dinner recipes. Housed in education modules and recipe books, the NutriSarap meal plans have been used in on-the-ground teaching activities, as well as the “Makulay ang Buhay” show, an educational program that aired on national TV.

Knorr Philippines’ brand ambassador Abi Marquez also led a cooking demonstration and talked about her personal views as an influencer of home-cooked dishes and its impact on the public’s perception of nutrition.

“We want a more sustainable future, one plate at a time,” Ong said.

(From left) Eloisa Villaraza, President, Nutritionist-Dietitians’ Association of the Philippines; Trinidad Arcangel, Supervising Science Research Specialist, DOST-FNRI; Lorena Garces, Family Development Focal Person, DSWD Calabarzon; Dr. Mario Capanzana, Executive Director, Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers Inc.; Hector Maglalang, President, Philippine Association of Nutritionists; Fredy Ong, Chairman and

Unilever Philippines; Lucieden Raz, DOST FNRI Deputy Director; Marinelle Villanueva, Unilever Philippines Nutrition Philippines

Business Lead; and Joseph Fabul, Unilever Philippines Head of Communications and Corporate Affairs

SHOWBIZ

GMA Synergy, in partnership with GMA Entertainment Group and 1Z Entertainment, presents Julie X Stell: Ang Ating Tinig featuring Julie Anne San Jose and SB19’s very own Stell

Multi-awarded concert director Paolo Valenciano directs the two-night concert that concludes tonight at 8:00 at the New Frontier Theater.

Music lovers are treated to two unique musical experiences with different sets of guests joining Julie and Stell for the concert. On Day 1, actor and dancer Rayver Cruz and SB19’s Pablo were the special guests, while tonight SB19’s Josh Cullen and Gary Valenciano will join the musical extravaganza.

“This collaboration of two of the greatest and most in-demand artists of this generation, Julie Anne and Stell, is a special treat for all fans and music lovers. From being the well-loved coaches of The Voice Generations, we are now bringing them to one concert stage to share with everyone their love and passion for music,” says Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso

“GMA Network will always be behind every artist, showcasing and promoting their undeniable talents and skills across the Philippines

JULIE ANNE, STELL IN VOCAL SHOWDOWN AT NEW FRONTIER

all ‘stars’ stand out and shine even brighter,” he added. Consultant for GMA Entertainment Group Darling de Jesus-Bodegon shares, “We’re celebrating a golden era for OPM by bringing together two of this generation’s greatest artists, Julie Anne and Stell. Our curated song selection spans genres and generations, evoking nostalgia

1Z Entertainment’s Chief Julian adds, “We’re thrilled to see Stell and Julie collaborate, showcasing OPM’s rich heritage. This concert blends their unique talents, preserving and promoting OPM music for today’s audience.” Tickets are available via TicketNet outlets nationwide or through ticketnet.com.ph. and overseas. Through various Synergy initiatives, we hope to make ticketnet.com.ph

BLACKBURN HITS THE RIGHT NOTES WITH ‘RUNAWAY’

‘BLACK RIDER’ STARS

By Abigail Adriatico

FORMER Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10 housemate Rob Blackburn, now known mononymously as Blackburn, is stepping into the spotlight with his new single, “Runaway.” The track marks his second release and is a bold dive into the realm of romance. Composed by Blackburn himself, “Runaway” narrates the tale of a woman trapped in a loveless engagement and a man determined to rescue her, offering a chance to escape and carve out their own future together.

“This is one of my most passionate projects. I’m excited for you to hear what I call romantic emo,” Blackburn shared in a post on X.

Produced by Roque “Rox” Santos, head of StarPop, the OPM ballad showcases Blackburn’s evolving musical style. Blackburn first gained recognition in 2021 as a fourth big placer in PBB and has since ventured into acting with roles in Pie Channel series like The Chosen One and Eat Pray Love. He released his debut single, “Biyernes ng Gabi,” under StarPop in May.

“Runaway” is now available to stream on leading music streaming platforms worldwide.

Actress and singer Julie Anne San Jose (left) joins Stell from P-pop boy band SB19 onstage for the ‘Julie X Stell: Ang Ating Tinig’ concert

The two-night concert is directed by Paolo Valenciano and will also feature performances from various guests

Julie Anne San Jose (left) with Stell during one of their rehearsals for the concert

Rob Blackburn finished fourth in Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10

Rob Blackburn composed his newest single ‘Runaway’ which was produced by StarPop Head Rox Santos

Ruru Madrid gives a pack of relief goods to victims of the typhoon from Barangay Banaba in San Mateo, Rizal

Actor Jon Lucas is one of the actors who offered his help to the GMA Foundation’s ‘Operation Bayanihan’

LAKAPATI aims to discuss during a series of performances LGBTQIA+ experiences in Filipino culture.

The two-act queer shadow puppet play follows the titular character, an intersex god of agriculture and fertility once revered by the Tagalogs, as she embarks on a journey to selfdiscovery.

Amid her struggles to find the balance between self-expression and selfpreservation under the criticizing eyes of the church together with the public, she meets Bathala. Grounded on the norms built on tolerance and obligation, the two embrace true solidarity.

Lakapati was produced by Balay Tamawo Puppet Theater, a group of Theater Arts students Charlize Gloria, Shang Belleza, Joaquinito Ventura, and Skip Arroyo from

LIFEYoung

QUEER SHADOW PUPPET PLAY REIMAGINES FILIPINO MYTHOLOGY

the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLSCSB) School of Arts, Culture, and Performance (SACP).

It was directed by budding dramaturg and filmmaker Gio C. Potes, who co-wrote the piece together with Aidan Angan and A.D. Belleza. Gloria, one of the Balay Tamawo Puppet Theater members, served as assistant director.

It will feature performances by Andrea Resurreccion, Kelsi Labador, Darcy Vales, Robe Dagcuta, Erich Baldove, Cher Victorino, Rosea Ansay, Yanna Baleda, Grace Baquiano, Samantha Guerrero, Gero Rojas, Althea Guancia, and Alex Cruz

“By reimagining the myth of Lakapati and Bathala, we wish to explore the queer experiences in the two of the most prominent social structures in the Philippines today – religion and family,” the group explained.

“This play asks the timely question: Why do we punish queer identities when so much of Filipino culture not only celebrates

but relies on the community that preserves it?” they added.  With Lakapati, the team examines the queer background within the Filipino culture, explores themes of individuality and belongingness, and fosters dialogue on LGTBQIA+ acceptance.

Through the modernized Philippine mythology, which reflects the pre-colonial society that was once inclusive toward the queer community, the young artists likewise hope to encourage parents in the audience to openly learn and reflect on the state of queerness in their homes.

Lakapati is open to the public. It will be staged from Aug. 5 to Aug. 9, with schedules at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. There will be a Gala Show on Saturday, Aug. 10 at 2:00 p.m.

It will be on view at the 6th Floor Black Box Theater, Benilde Design + Arts Campus, 950 Pablo Ocampo Street, Malate, Manila.

Tickets are available at P350 for VIP and P300 for Regular. The Gala admission is P450. For more information, visit facebook.com/ balaytamawo24.

By Nickie Wang

BLACKBOUGH Swim has raised $1,000 through its “Bambi’s Ballet” campaign, supporting conservation efforts for the Philippine Spotted Deer.

In partnership with a local NGO, this initiative focuses on maintaining an enclosure for the critically endangered deer species native to the rainforests of the Visayan Islands of Panay and Negros.

The international swimwear brand, based in the Philippines, announced that the funds will help preserve one of the world’s most threatened deer species, contributing to both habitat protection and population growth.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported this cause through their purchases and

donations. The Blackbough community’s dedication has made a significant impact on our shared mission to protect and conserve our natural heritage,” the brand said in a statement. The campaign featured the “Bambi’s Ballet” Collection, launched on June 3 in collaboration with Filipino artist Inya De Vera. Inspired by the vibrant fauna of the Philippines, the collection donated 15 percent of its net profits to the Talarak Foundation, which is committed to safeguarding the native wildlife of Negros Island, including the Visayan Spotted Deer highlighted in the collection’s designs.

THIS September, London-based fashion brand COS will make a grand return to New York Fashion Week (NYFW) to unveil its Autumn Winter 2024 mainline and Atelier collections on the runway. This marks COS’s comeback after its debut show at NYFW two years ago.

The brand is set to showcase its latest winter collections as part of the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s (CFDA) official schedule, engaging with leading communities in fashion, art, music, and design.

COS Design Director Karin Gustafsson expressed her enthusiasm: “New York is a dynamic city with so much character - it’s a place of inspiration, full of interesting and creative people. We are honored to return for our third year, bringing the collections to life on the runway at an exciting new location.” CFDA CEO Steven Kolb welcomed the brand’s return, stating,“The CFDA is delighted to welcome COS back to the Official NYFW Schedule. The brand’s international presence strengthens the overall week for our designers, and their commitment to making New York City the home for their collection showcases over the years is a testament to the power and appeal of our city as a global stage for creativity and business.”

The highly anticipated show will take place on Sept. 10 and will be streamed live on cos. com.

The pieces in the collection are designed by Filipino artist Inya De Vera The collection takes inspiration from the rich Philippine fauna

Lakapati is played by Andrea Resurrecion

HOSPITALITY

By Nickie Wang

DISCOVERY Hospitality Corporation (DHC) is transforming property management with its innovative, state-of-theart services. Known for its award-winning properties, the homegrown hotel brand is showcasing its dynamic and forwardthinking approach, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and superior guest experiences.

For over two decades, DHC has led the industry with properties like Discovery Suites in Ortigas, Discovery Boracay, Discovery Primea on Ayala Avenue, and Discovery Coron. Now, DHC is aligning with partners who share its commitment to exceptional Filipino hospitality, offering property management services for resorts, hotels, and hostels, enhanced by advanced technology.

Central to DHC’s property management philosophy is its dedication to exceptional guest service. Known for its “Service That’s All Heart,” the company ensures personalized and memorable interactions, focusing on guests’ well-being and happiness. This commitment is a cornerstone of DHC’s reputation, making its properties beloved and considered a home away from home.

DHC also emphasizes responsible tourism, integrating green initiatives and eco-friendly practices into its operations. The company engages with local communities through social responsibility programs, aiming to uplift and empower the regions it operates in.

DHC’s dedication to excellence is reflected in numerous prestigious awards, including the World Travel Awards’ Leading Beach Resort accolade for Discovery Boracay, the Travel+Leisure Luxury Awards’ recognition of Discovery Coron as one of the best Island Resorts, and the World Business Outlook’s title

DISCOVERY HOSPITALITY TRANSFORMS

of Leading Hospitality Brand.

Under its new management program, DHC has already established two notable resorts: the Signature Collection’s Manami Resort in Sipalay, Negros Occidental—a luxury destination off the beaten path—and Discovery Samal, which introduces the redesigned Discovery Resorts brand. Spanning Davao City, Discovery Samal offers a comprehensive range of island activities, fulfilling every traveler’s dream vacation.

Discovery Hospitality is known as a trailblazer in the industry, always standing

first in line to enhance technological integration and continue to provide exceptional guest experiences. The group prides itself on having brands that cater to any type of wanderer— Discovery Resorts for stunning destinations, Primea for luxury city

hotels, Kip&Kin for the young and vibrant, and Signature Collection for unique stories. With its globally recognized thought leadership and expanding property management services, explore new growth opportunities, be part of this exciting journey in creating remarkable hospitality experiences, and drive the industry forward.

CITADINES Roces Quezon City is part of The Ascott Limited’s growing presence in the Philippines. This property shows the brand’s dedication to excellent service and top-quality lodging. With its modern look, a range of rooms, many amenities, and a great location, Citadines Roces Quezon City serves both business and leisure travelers. It offers comfort and convenience for work meetings, social events, and private celebrations.

dedicated event team is available to help with every detail, from choosing menus to providing technical support. With their expertise and care, you can be sure your event will be a success.

Each room has high-quality audiovisual equipment, including projectors, screens, and sound systems, for smooth presentations and multimedia use. The modern decor and adjustable seating make it a great space for all types of events.

Located in the country’s most populous city, Citadines Roces Quezon City is perfectly situated for travelers. Quezon City is full of business, entertainment, and cultural spots. Guests can easily reach government offices, corporate centers, shopping areas, and a variety of restaurants, making it a convenient and exciting place to stay.

One of the highlights of Citadines Roces Quezon City is its top-notch event spaces. These modern rooms are designed to host different types of events with style. They come equipped with the latest tech and amenities, making them perfect for business meetings, seminars, weddings, and social gatherings.

The versatile function rooms can be arranged to fit any event’s needs. The

“Our function rooms are made to fit the unique needs of each event, offering flexible layouts and full support,” says Thea Peregrino, Assistant Residence Manager at Citadines Roces Quezon City. “Our event planning team and staff are dedicated to delivering excellent service, ensuring every event is perfectly executed and memorable.”

Additionally, the residence’s flagship restaurant and bar, Alejo, provides a wide range of international dishes with Filipino flavors. The restaurant can tailor menus for any event and offers a stylish, modern setting perfect for enjoying great food.

Whether for a business event or a personal celebration, Citadines Roces Quezon City is the perfect place to create lasting memories.

Resorts

DHC offers exceptional service which makes guests feel right at home