Manila Standard - 2024 August 3 - Saturday

Japan, PH hold first joint naval exercise

As Vietnam Coast Guard set to hold drills with PH

By Rachelle Tonelada

THE Philippine and Japanese navies held their first joint exercise on Friday in the West Philippine Sea, as the two US allies boost security ties in the face of China's growing pressure.

The drills followed the signing less than a month ago of an agreement between Manila and Tokyo to allow the deployment of troops on each other's territory.

It came two days after a Vietnamese coast guard vessel left for the Philippines for joint training exercises, Hanoi said, the first such exchange between the countries in dispute with Beijing over the South

China Sea.

The 2,400-ton CSB 8002 vessel left Vietnamese waters Wednesday for a trip that has "profound political significance," Vietnam's defense

ministry said in a statement.

The visit was an opportunity for both coast guard forces to "promote comprehensive cooperation (and) improve law enforcement ability at sea... to contribute to the maintenance of peace, stability, security and safety in the relevant sea area and in the region."

The two will carry out joint drills on search and rescue, fire prevention and fighting at sea.

In a January visit to Vietnam by President Marcos, the two countries agreed to boost coastguard cooperation in the South China Sea and "peacefully solve incidents at sea."

Meanwhile, the Japanese destroyer JS Sazanami and the Philippine guided missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal took part in the two countries' first bilateral

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos on Friday named Undersecretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque as Acting Secre-

tary of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) following the resignation of Secretary Alfredo Pascual. Roque was appointed two days

By Riera U. Mallari

FINANCE Secretary Ralph G. Recto on Friday said that the Department of Finance is ready to answer any question on the legality of its order implementing the transfer of around P90 billion excess funds from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to the na-

tional treasury. The transfer was authorized under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2024, the finance chief said. "While we have yet to receive a copy of the petition and read its contents, we

By Maricel V. Cruz

MORE funding is being sought through the proposed 2025 national budget to ensure that President Marcos’ flagship public service projects continue to deliver government services and reach more Filipinos across the country.

This was the assurance given by House Speaker Martin Romuladez at the launch of the Bagong Pilipinas Service Fair’s (BPSF) Eastern Samar segment in Tacloban City on Friday.

He said that next week, the lower chamber will begin deliberations on the P6.352-trillion

national budget that includes allocations for programs and services to help the people.

Romualdez vowed that the House will work tirelessly to ensure more funds are provided for programs and services essential to the BPSF, such as Kadiwa ng Pangulo, Passport on Wheels, Driver's License registration/assistance, among others.

“Night and day, your Congress will work to speed up and ensure the passage of the budget so that we can help our countrymen even more. This is the New Philippines, this is the new Congress,” he stressed.

By Vince Lopez

SOME 352,179 residents of coastal barangays in Cavite province are affected as industrial fuel from a capsized oil tanker further envelope their shores, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said on Friday. In a statement, OCD-Calabarzon also said that among those affected are 25,145 fishermen who are losing an estimated P18 million in income every day because their livelihood has come to a halt. "At present, based on the update of the Cavite [Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council], the Provincial Government issued a 'No Catch and No Sell Zone' for all shellfish in the coastal areas of the province," the agency further stated. Resorts and similar businesses in Calabarzon are also reeling from the

FIRST JOINT DRILL. Japan and the Philippines hold their first maritime drill in the West Philippine Sea.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez led the Bagong Pilipinas fair in Tacloban City which was attended by Senate and House leaders.

US Defense Secretary assessed industrial capability in Subic Bay

By Rex Espiritu

UNITED States Secretary of Defense, Sec. Lloyd Austin III visited othe Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales on Wednesday to assess the industrial capabilities of companies in the free port that will contribute to Philippine military's modernization and their capacity to maintain ships of partner nations in the Indo-Pacific region.

“We’ve come a long way in our relationship with the Philippines.

I think it’s been fascinating to be a part of this and we are looking to a lot more going forward,” Sec. Austin said during his visit.

The Philippine Navy Flag Officer In Command Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. expressed the Philippine Navy’s deep appreciation for Sec. Austin’s visit as a clear manifestation of the US support to the Philippine Navy.

Sec. Austin recently engaged in high-level discussions with Philip-

President's net satisfaction

pine Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro and other officials as part of the 4th PH-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue where he reiterated the United States’ commitment to deepening ties with key allies.

Subic Bay was home to the US 7th Fleet until the Philippine Senate voted to terminate the bases agreement in 1991.

Tags: Philippines, news, defense, United States, Lloyd Austin III, IndoPacific

Marcos cites journalists' role in fighting fake news

By Charles Dantes

PRESIDENT Marcos reaffirmed his commitment to protect press freedom,

highlighting the media's essential role in democracy and in fighting disinformation.

Speaking at the oathtaking of the

Association of Philippine Journalists–

Samahang Plaridel Foundation Inc. in Malacañang, Mr. Marcos praised journalists for keeping the public informed

Japan,...

From A1 "Maritime Cooperative Activity," the Armed Forces of the Philippines said.

"This activity was part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen regional and international cooperation towards realising a free and open IndoPacific,” the AFP said in a statement.

"Japan is committed to strengthening its partnerships with like-minded countries in upholding freedom of navigation and rule of law," the Japanese embassy in Manila added.

The two vessels held a communications exercise and undertook tactical maneuvers in the West Philippine Sea.

These "enhanced the tactical capabilities of the Philippine Navy and

Delgaco...

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women’s single sculls, listing a personal best of 7:43.83.

In the quarters and in semis C/D, Delgaco registered times of over eight minutes.

In the finale, she was fourth through the 500m mark, then down to fifth through the 1000m, before thundering to second through 1500m and keeping the pace to finish second behind Paraguay’s Alejandra Alonso and ahead of Iranian Fatemeh Mojallaltopraghghale, Turkish Elis Ozbay, Vietnamese Thi Hue Pham and Peru’s Adriana Sanguineti.

“Grabe ‘yung hinabol,” said Philippine Rowing Association president Patrick Gregorio.

Delgaco’s impressive performance not only solidified her position as one of Asia’s best, but also opened doors for future opportunities.

Her Olympic journey is set to continue with a three-month training stint in Germany, where she will also pursue an Olympic Solidarity Scholarship.

Delgaco’s achievement has also ignited hopes for the growth of rowing in the Philippines, with Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Richard Bachmann recommending an increase in the national team’s roster to 10 athletes and two coaches.

“Joanie just proved that if we can get additional support from corporate sponsors, we can excel in this sport,”

the (Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force) and reinforced the strong ties and mutual commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region," the AFP said.

A similar exercise was held two days earlier, also in South China Sea waters close to the Philippines, between the Filipino navy patrol ship BRP Ramon Alcaraz and the US Navy's littoral combat ship USS Mobile.

The Philippines and Japan are longtime allies of the United States, which has been strengthening its alliances from Canberra to Tokyo to counter China's growing military might and influence in the region.

Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea but the Philippines, Vietnam and several other nations claim various islands, islets, reefs and shoals in the crucial strategic waterway. With AFP

said Gregorio, who announced a P50,000 bonus for the athlete.

The Philippines now ranks second in the region and holds the top spot in Southeast Asia.

“Before the Olympics, there were five qualifiers and the rankings were Uzbekistan, Iran, Vietnam, Philippines and Singapore. Now we’re second in Asia and No. 1 in Southeast Asia,” Gregorio said.

The international rowing community has also taken notice of Delgaco’s potential.

Daniela Gomes, FISA head for sports development, expressed keen interest in the Filipina rower and pledged support for an Olympic Solidarity Scholarship.

Meanwhile, Jarod Hatch's Olympic debut ended earlier than expected as he failed to advance to the semifinals of the men's 100-meter butterfly event.

The Filipino swimmer finished last in his heat with a time of 54.66 seconds, placing him in a joint 36th position overall.

China's Jiajun Sun topped Heat 2 with a time of 51.85 seconds.

Meanwhile, Kristof Milac claimed the fastest overall time of 50.10 seconds, followed closely by Canada's Josh Linedo (50.55) and Switzerland's Noe Ponti and France's Maxime Grousset, who both clocked 50.65 seconds.

Only the top 16 swimmers from the preliminary rounds advanced to the semifinals.

Over...

From A1 impact of the oil spill, with 36 tourism establishments affected, according to Department of Tourism Regional Director Marites Castro.

A state of calamity is now in effect in nine coastal local government units (LGU) the province due to the oil that has spilled out of the ill-fated MTKR Terranova, which sank off the coast of Bataan on July 25.

One crew member died while 16 others were rescued when the vessel capsized along with its cargo of 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel around 3.6 nautical miles east of Lamao Point in Limay town.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) earlier reported that the oil seeping out of the tanker is under control and is “minimal.”

As this developed, Lieutenant Com-

P1.26b...

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Romualdez also reiterated the administration’s commitment to continue the fair nationwide, ensuring that no region is left behind.

The Mega BPSF in Tacloban City managed to draw 241 House members – the highest attendance in a BPSF to date.

The event also saw participation of other ranking government officials, including Sen. Ramon Revilla

DOF...

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respect the right of the petitioners to seek clarification from the Supreme Court regarding the legality of the PhilHealth unused subsidy (fund balance)," Recto said in a statement.

Recto said the department exercised legal due diligence through coordination with the Governance Commission of GOCCs (GCG), the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC), and the Commission on Audit (COA), "all of whom have issued a favorable opinion on its legality."

and fostering meaningful discourse.

“You help keep our people informed of important news and current events, ensuring that there is a healthy, and enlightened, and meaningful discourse on matters of public importance,” President Marcos said.

"You likewise help in holding public officers, including myself, accountable for our actions—recognizing our work when we do well, and pointing out our shortcomings whenever our work does not measure up to our sworn duties," he added.

The chief executive assured the media of his administration's support, emphasizing safety measures through the Presidential Task Force on Media Security.

This includes the creation of Media Safety Vanguards, a 24/7 hotline, and legal support.

"We will also foster an environment where members of the media can continue to freely practice their profession in a manner that is fruitful, rewarding, and meaningful,” Marcos said.

mander Michael Encina, who commands Coast Guard Station Bataan, said the fabrication of capping bags to temporarily seal the leaking valves of MTKR Terranova is underway.

He said fabricating the capping bags and installing them will take one week.

For his part, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. emphasized that the owner of MTKR Terranova should be prosecuted because the oil spill it caused is not only health hazard but brought much anxiety to affected residents.

He said it is necessary to review maritime protocols in the area to find out why there have been so many ships sinking recently.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH) called on the public to avoid drinking water that may have been drawn from areas near the oil spill.

Jr., Department of Migrant Workers

Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, 12 governors, three vice governors, nine mayors, and 16 officials from the Executive Department. The event distributed P1.26 billion worth of government services to 253,000 beneficiaries across Eastern Visayas, including mini-BPSFs in Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Samar, Southern Leyte, and Biliran.

Romualdez expressed his gratitude to the lawmakers who crossed party lines to attend the event.

"As I stated before the Senate, I believe that public health deserves the full support of the government—a position which I have maintained in my three decades in Congress. I want to make it clear that I never opposed any recommendations to reduce PhilHealth member contributions," he said.

Recto said that whatever measures the government undertakes to source financing for its programs and projects are "consistent with the belief that its capacity to address the primary needs of our people— including health—is not compromised."

By Vito Barcelo

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s net satisfaction rating bounced back from 50 percent four months ago to 55 percent this June, according to the latest Social Weather Station (SWS) survey. The SWS revealed that 55 percent of adult Filipinos were satisfied with the performance of the President — 5 percentage points higher than 50 percent recorded in March.

Twenty-eight percent of Filipinos were dissatisfied, resulting in a net satisfaction rating of +27, which is an increase of 7 points compared to March, while 15 percent were undecided.

"Compared to March 2024, gross satisfaction with President Marcos rose from 50 percent, gross undecided fell from 19 percent, and gross dissatisfaction fell slightly from 31 percent,” SWS said.

However, it bounced back up to +27 based on a survey conducted by SWS from June 23 to July 1.

The net satisfaction rate for June 2024 was the aggregate score obtained, as 55 percent of respondents interviewed said they were satisfied with Marcos’ performance, 28 percent were dissatisfied, and 15 percent were undecided.

“The national Social Weather Survey of June 23 – July 1, 2024, found 55% of adult Filipinos satisfied, 15% undecided, and 28% dissatisfied with the performance of Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. as President. Compared to March 2024, gross satisfaction with President Marcos rose from 50%, gross undecided fell from 19%, and gross dissatisfaction fell slightly from 31%,” SWS said.

The net satisfaction rate for June 2024 was the aggregate score obtained, as 55 percent of respondents interviewed said they were satisfied with Marcos’ performance, 28 percent were dissatisfied, and 15 percent were undecided.

Still, Marcos’ score for June 2024 was lower compared to the +58 he got a year ago or in June 2023, and his highest-ever net satisfaction rating of +68 in December 2022.

Satisfaction among respondents was highest in Balance Luzon, with 60 percent saying they were okay with Marcos’ performance, followed by 57 percent in Metro Manila, 55 percent in Visayas, and 46 percent in Mindanao.

Dissatisfaction was highest in Mindanao at 41 percent, followed by Visayas at 28 percent, Metro Manila at 26 percent, and Balance Luzon at 28 percent.

The SWS said 9 percent of respondents said they expect Marcos to fulfill all or nearly all of his campaign promises; 17 percent said that many of the promises would be actualized; 48 percent said only some would be fulfilled; and 23 percent do not believe the President’s objectives will be attained.

Marcos...

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after Pascual tendered his resignation as head of the agency on Wednesday, July 31, 2024.Pascual's resignation took effect today.

Pascual cited as reasons for his resignation his desire to return to the private sector and spend more time with his family.

President Marcos cited Roque's dedication and leadership in supporting MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises), noting the vital role of the DTI in economic growth. He also thanked Pascual for his service and looks forward to a smooth transition under Roque's leadership. Roque, who has been leading the MSME Development Group within DTI, oversees key areas including the Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, the Bureau of Marketing Development and Promotions, and the Small Business Corporation.

SAMAHANG PLARIDEL. Officers of the Samahang Plaridel take their oath before President Ferdinand Marcos at Malacañang.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Baguio Midland Courier still available at stalls

COMMUNITY newspaper, Baguio Midland Courier is still available in some newsstands in Baguio City, a month after it was announced closed.

The 77-year old firm announced last June 30 that effective July 22, it will cease publication, and invited advertisers and supporters to publish their messages, advertisements, advertorials, and infomercials in its remaining three issues.

In a statement, Baguio Midland Courier, published by the Hamada Printers and Publishers Corporation, noted that its closure adds to the growing list of newspapers and “venerable publications” worldwide who are shutting down operations – a trend attributed to the “unprecedented challenges” in the age of increasing digitization.

It said that a special meeting of the company’s stockholders and members will take place on June 17 with the agenda centered on the approval of the company’s dissolution. Rex Espiritu

Taguig cops nab 10 most wanted suspects in city

THE Taguig City police force has reported the arrest of the 10 “most wanted” criminal suspects in the city.

The report was made during Southern Police District’s (SPD) observance of Warrant Day.

First to fall was alias Marlon, 42, listed as the 9 th most wanted for a series of offenses.

The long arms of the law also caught up with alias Jane, the 10 th most wanted with a string of pending cases at the courts.

A third suspect was likewise identified only as alias Brill, 38. Vince Lopez

CamSur farmers forge ties with Army’s 9thID

WITH help from the Department of Agrarian Reform, nine farmers’ cooperatives in Camarines Sur have partnered with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to explore more market opportunities.

The agrarian reform beneficiary organizations included cooperatives and associations from the towns of Bombon, Tigaon, Pili, Ocampo and Naga City.

The partnership was forged through a memorandum of understanding and marketing agreement between the farmers’ groups and the 9th Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army based in Pili to ensure a steady supply of fresh farm produce for the Army personnel while providing a reliable market for local farmers.

In a statement, 9 th ID chief Maj. Gen. Adonis Bajao, said “we hope to support our farmers with sustainable programs like this while helping the government eliminate agrarian conflict in our communities.”

DAR regional director Reuben Theodore Sindac, cited “this harmonious collaboration fulfills our shared mission as public servants.” Rio N. Araja

Bato defies ICC drug war probe

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SENATOR Ronald Dela Rosa on Friday said he will not submit himself to the International Criminal Court (ICC) or even the International Police (Interpol) in connection with the ongoing investigation of the Duterte administration’s bloody drug war, during which he served as chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“The ICC is not part of our government. The Interpol is not over and above the chain of our Philippine National Police,” Dela Rosa said. He added however, that if the ICC wants to interview him, they should write him a formal communication.

“If it’s just an interview, why not? I will not be rude, but it doesn’t mean that I am submitting, recognizing their jurisdiction over my person,” Dela

Solon eyes evacuation centers at municipal level to spare schools

By Maricel V. Cruz

A SENIOR legislator on Friday called for the construction of evacuation centers at the municipal level nationwide to prevent the use of class rooms during calamities.

Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte made the call in the wake of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara’s appeal to local governments to refrain from using classrooms as

evacuation centers because it disrupts the students’ learning process.

Villafuerte was pushing for the passage of a bill that mandates the construction of permanent, climate-proof shelters in all cities and towns for use during severe tropical cyclones and other calamities.

In a statement, Villafuerte noted that more than one week after the devastation wrought by Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon or habagat, nearly 40,000 families are still in more than 800 evacuation centers.

“With almost 40,000 families in more than 800 evacuation centers, including public schools, after the worst flooding in Metro Manila and certain provinces since Ondoy struck 15 years ago, the 19th Congress should prioritize a bill in its third and final session to build climate-proof evacuation centers in every city and municipality for disaster victims,” said Villafuerte,

“This will provide safe shelters for hapless families who are forced to abandon their homes during calamities or disasters—and put an end to the recurring sorry scenario of public schools and even churches being used as temporary abodes by tens of thousands of evacuees until such time that it becomes safe for them to go back to their dwelling places,” he added.

2 provinces tackle poverty

ILOCOS Norte Gov. Matthew Marcos

Manotoc has welcomed top-ranked visitors from Misamis Oriental who came for a three-day benchmarking activity that ends today.

“We are an open book; whatever you need, whatever you need to know, or any questions you have, we are at your disposal. Please let us know,” Manotoc said as he greeted the visitors led by Gov. Peter Unabia.

The group included some mayors and provincial government officials.

The benchmarking event is expected to provide insights into how Ilocos Norte initiatives have helped improve the lives of the Ilokanos. The activity included discussions on agriculture, tourism, edu-

cation, and employment and livelihood opportunities in the province.

Unabia expressed gratitude for the hospitality accorded them.

“On behalf of the mayors and the department heads of PGMO (provincial government of Misamis Oriental), I would like to express our appreciation for welcoming us. We’re here for one purpose – for our cause, for our fight against poverty.”

“This is a challenge for us, my dear department heads and mayors,” he added.

For 2023, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that Ilocos Norte has the lowest poverty incidence in the country, at only five percent.

Rosa stressed. In the event that the Interpol would seek the help of the PNP in serving his warrant of arrest, the former police chief said he has no quarrel with the police. According to Dela Rosa, he will submit himself to authorities if only there is an order from a Philippine court, or if the order will come from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

30k POGO workers set for deportation

SOME 30,000 foreign workers employed in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) are set for deportation in light of the ban online gaming scheme, according to the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission (PAOCC).

PAOCC spokesman Winston Casio said at least 27 Chinese nationals have been sent back to China in line with the total ban on POGOs as directed by President Marcos.

PAOCC said 37 Chinese should have been shipped out, but six were withheld due to existing hold departure orders (HDOs) against them in certain countries.

A total of 1,698 POGO foreign workers have been deported since May 4, 2023.

“So far, the list we got from PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.) for legal workers, there are roughly 30,000. We’re expecting that all foreign nationals that are working in legal POGOs will eventually be repatriated,” Casio said during a public briefing.

“The challenge that we would face is about the illegal workers. With assistance from PAOCC and other government agencies, we are very confident we will be able to deport if not all, at least a good number of them,” Casio added.

He also said foreign nationals who are working under illegal POGO firms will be placed under the immigration blacklist and will not be permanently banned from entering the Philippines.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in his third State of the Nation Address, ordered a ban on all POGOs in the country. The directive stemmed from a series of raids against illegal POGOs, resulting in the seizure of instruments used for torture, love scams, and other crimes.

The Bureau of Immigration said earlier that foreign POGO workers will be given at least 60 days to leave the Philippines.

FLOOD CONTROL. Photo shows the Navotas floodgate as of Friday, August 2, 2024, days after the onslaught of Super Typhoon ‘Carina.’ Manny Palmero

The Philippine Coast Guard begins recovery operations at the sunken MT Terra Nova in the vicinity waters of Limay, Bataan.

Public-private pacts to address climate impact

ENVIRONMENTAL experts pushed for stronger public-private partnerships to address climate change impacts and mitigate other disaster risks several days after the onslaught of Super Typhoon “Carina.”

During a climate change forum organized by the Philippine Business for Environmental Stewardship (PBEST) earlier this week.

House OKs motorcycles-for-hire bill

By Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

ABILL seeking to regulate motorcycles-for-hire is a step closer from becoming a law after the House of Representatives approved it on third and final reading.

The chamber, voting 200 against 1 with zero abstention, approved House Bill (HB) 10424 which allows the operation of motorcycles as common carriers for the transportation of passengers and goods, including parcels and mail.

“The House of Representatives ac-

IN BRIEF

knowledges that motorcycles-for-hire not just serve as an efficient alternative to mass public transportation but also a viable source of livelihood for Filipinos,” Speaker Martin Romualdez said.

“This bill aims to provide safe, sufficient, and economical mode of public

BI deports 67 Chinese illegally working in PH

THE Bureau of Immigration deported 27 Chinese nationals who had been previously arrested for working illegally in the country.

The deported Chinese nationals boarded a Philippine Airlines flight to Shanghai.

Initially, the BI planned to deport 33 foreigners, but six were unable to board the flight after failing to get clearances from the National Bureau of Investigation or for other pending cases in the country.

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the six individuals need to resolve their pending cases in the Philippines and obtain the appropriate clearances before their deportation can be implemented.

“We are committed to ensuring that all necessary legal procedures are followed before deportation. This is to guarantee that justice is served and the integrity of our legal system is upheld,” he said. Vito Barcelo

QC expands scholarship grants for more students

QUEZON City expanded its scholarship program to offer increased financial grants and more opportunities for students, Mayor Joy Belmonte said.

Under the new program, Grade 12 scholars will receive annual grants of P20,000, up from the previous P4,000.

“We want to strengthen our city programs that have a lasting impact on the lives of our youth. The expansion of the current scholarship program offers various opportunities for thousands of QCitizens who wish to study or go back to school,” Belmonte said.

“Providing more funds to our scholarship program is a necessary and sound investment for the city’s future,” she added. The stipend for tertiary scholars will also increase, with academic, athletics and arts, and youth leader scholars receiving P25,000 annually, up from P4,000. Rio N. Araja

MinDA’s help sought to resolve power crisis

THE Davao Consumer Movement (DCM), a nonprofit organization, called on the Mindanao Development Authority to take a more proactive stance in resolving the power crisis surrounding Davao del Norte.

In a statement, DCM convenor Ryan Amper said it is the mandate of the MinDA to assist the government in looking for ways on how to improve the living condition of the people in Davao, specifically the power situation stemming from issues involving the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative Inc. (NORDECO).

“The MinDA, headed by its chairperson Secretary Leo Tereso Magno, should take a firmer stance on the current power situation of Davao del Norte and the Island Garden City of Samal,” the DCM said.

The group added that for residents of Davao del Norte to finally have affordable and reliable power in their households, MinDA should implement the Mindanao Power Development Program (MPDP)— a comprehensive strategy to accelerate the usage of renewable energy within the region. Maricel V. Cruz

transport by allowing and regulating the use of motorcycles as public utility vehicles,” he added.

HB 10424 seeks to mandate the registration of motorcycles-for-hire with the Land Transportation Office to ensure the roadworthiness of all motorcyclefor-hire before their registration, or renewal of registration.

Once enacted into law, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) would be given the power to regulate the operation of motorcycles-for-hire operating in areas where there are no operating digital platforms.

The number of routes or units that may be allowed to operate shall be in accordance with the local public transport route plan recommended by the local government unit concerned.

The bill also sets the requirements for the grant of a franchise or issuance of Certificate of Public Convenience, which include: a) Proof of Filipino citizenship, b) Financial capacity, c) LTO Certificate of Vehicle Registration, d) Insurance coverage and e) Tax Identification Number or Certificate of Registration as Common Carrier.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary for Finance, Information Systems, and Climate Change Annaliza Teh underscored the need for the government to strengthen its cooperation and partnership with the private sector and civil society organizations.

“Forging strong collaboration is crucial for advancing climate action and enhancing disaster resilience. The Philippines remains committed to adopting a whole-of-nation approach.

This collective effort underscores our dedication to safeguarding vulnerable communities, promoting sustainable development, and securing a resilient future for all Filipinos amidst escalating climate challenges,” Teh said.

“Central to this approach is transparent governance, which ensures accountability and effective implementation of initiatives to mitigate climate impacts and build resilience across the nation,” she added.

Teh highlighted the dangerous impacts of climate change, citing that around 2.5 million Filipinos were displaced in 2023 primarily due to disasters.

Last week, Super Typhoon “Carina” enhanced “habagat” and caused intense rainfall and severe flooding in Luzon, leaving 34 dead and dozens more injured.

Solon

seeks job facilitation offices for PWDs, seniors

By Maricel V. Cruz

REP. Brian Raymund Yamsuan of the Bicol Saro party-list proposed a measure that would establish government-run local centers to assist senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in finding jobs and accessing training opportunities to enhance their skills.

Under HB 10630, the Department of Labor and Employment s mandated to establish, operate, and maintain job facilitation offices for PWDs and seniors, to be known as Local Centers for Inclusive Employment (LCIEs), upon the request of the local government units (LGUs) in capital towns, key cities, and other strategic areas.

Yamsuan said his proposal embodied in House Bill 10630 will help qualified PWDs and seniors in overcoming obstacles they usually encounter in finding employment, such as lack of assistance in accessing suitable job openings, biases against them related to physical abilities and age, and inadequate training.

“Our legislative proposal aims to fill this inadequacy by providing targeted support and resources to help qualified individuals from these vulnerable sectors find and retain gainful employment,” he added.

“We are all aware that despite policies promoting equal employment opportunities for qualified seniors and PWDs, they still find it difficult to find good and decent jobs. Discrimination against them still persists, and on top of that, they do not know which government office to go to so that they can be aided in the process of finding jobs,” Yamsuan said.

Seafarers’ magna carta to help create more jobs

THE impending signing into law of the Magna Carta for Seafarers promises to open thousands of job opportunities for Filipino seafarers, Association of Licensed Manning Agencies chairman Iris Baguilat said.

“This landmark legislation, which includes Section 59, aims to protect seafarers and address longstanding challenges like ‘ambulance chasing’ that have exploited the seafarers’ illness and injury and hindered growth and credibility within the sector. With the support of international and local maritime organizations, this new law is set to revitalize the Philippine maritime sector and provide more job opportunities for maritime graduates,” Baguilat said. Section 59, which provides for a bond requirement for seafarers appealing a monetary claim, was backed by the International Chamber of Shipping and the International Maritime Employers’ Council.

Noveleta

PRETTY AS A POSTCARD. A worker prepares abaca fibers used to make paper bags, ropes, hats and slippers, among others, near Sumlang Lake in Camalig, Albay, with the Mayon Volcano serving as a beautiful backdrop. Joven Cagande

OPINION

Blinken, Austin: Get out, stay out!

THE Blinken-Austin visit for the 2 + 2 diplomatic ritual comes after much doubletalk by Blinken aimed at the recent de-escalation deal between China and the Philippines that has successfully “eased tensions” between the two countries relative to issues concerning contested areas of the South China Sea.

Blinken, in conjunction with the ASEAN summit in Laos, on one hand, criticized alleged “escalating actions” at sea by China when it is the US plot in the first place that created the tensions in the SCS, while hypocritically applauding the Philippines-China de-escalation deal diplomacy.

It must be recalled the tension buildup between China and the Philippines started only in Feb. 2023 when a retired US Air Force colonel, named Raymond Powell, conceived under the auspices of the US Office of Naval Research a “cognitive warfare” operation called “Project Myoushu.”

The strategy enlisted Philippine maritime security and defense forces in an “assertive transparency” operation to challenge a 25-year-old deal with China banning construction materials supplies to a corroding deliberately stranded Philippine Navy ship to boost its claim over the Second Thomas Shoal, as well as areas contested by both countries.

The ‘modus operandi’ was to provoke deterrent or police action from the Chinese Coast Guard like interception of Philippine Coast Guard or hiring of private vessels attempting to smuggle prohibited materials, or attempting to violate fish sanctuaries banned to fishing and other activities for conservation reasons – and carry shiploads of Western and Filipino media to film, report and denounce as “bullying.”

The US Project Myoushu chief, Powell, is quite open in admitting the aim of his operation is “to exact as reputational cost” on China, generate international support for the Philippine cause, both of which have failed as surveys show China is now the preferred ally in Southeast Asian nations and ASEAN countries are, in fact, critical of the Philippines’ unilateral, disruptive activities.

The concern for Filipinos is that while the de-escalation deal may be holding firm at this early stage, it is also still fragile as many elements, foreign and domestic, are continuously besieging it with fake news and disinformation.

The Blinken-Austin visit will be another opportunity for the US to put on the pressure on the Philippines to backtrack from this present de-escalation deal.

The Philippines and China have just restored peace and stability in the areas of the SCS contested by the two countries in a July 21, 2024 “de-escalation” deal that aimed at “easing tensions.”

The deal has led to a July 27, 2024 “successful” Rotation and Resupply

mission delivering humanitarian goods like food, water and medicines for the BRP Sierra Madre’s Philippine Marines.

“No untoward incidents were reported,” the DFA said in a statement.

One of the conditions in the deal is the embargo on construction materials that may be used for rebuilding the rust-corroded ship to a Forward Operating Base which the US military has expressed intention to build thereat.

The present “de-escalation” deal is a second one.

The first de-escalation deal was arranged by President Bongbong Marcos with President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in San Francisco in Nov. 2023 and processed through to the 8th China-Philippine Bilateral Consultative Mechanism meeting.

Will the new, second effort of the Philippine government to normalize relations with its millennial Asian neighbor, China, hold strong over the months and years ahead?

The first de-escalation deal capped off the Chinese Embassy’s defense attaché Col. Li and Philippine Coast Guard Adm. Alberto Carlos agreeing in Jan. 2024 “to ease tensions” leading to a peaceful Feb. 2, 2024 RORE mission.

But US proxy Filipino coast guard spokesman, Comm. Jay Tarriela contradicted this and declared more “aggressive assertive transparency” operations.

Instead of honoring the first successful de-escalation and RORE mission, the Department of National Defense and the Philippine Senate humiliated Carlos and his team for making peace.

Now a new de-escalation is being pursued again, affirming the deep desire of 95 percent of the Filipino population to devote the national energy to economic recovery instead of the imagined threat to the national territory.

Will the new, second effort of the Philippine government to normalize relations with its millennial Asian neighbor, China, hold strong over the months and years ahead?

The Filipino public is trying to ensure this will be so.

Protest actions greeted the arrival of Blinken and Austin with shouts of: ‘Blinken-Austin – Get Out, Stay Out!’ (rpkapunan@gmail.com)

‘Black and proud’: Harris has never shied away from racial identity

WASHINGTON, DC – Former president Donald Trump, who has a long history of making incendiary comments about race, has stepped up his attacks on his 2024 White House rival Kamala Harris by claiming she “happened to turn Black” for political advantage. But the reality is that the vice president, the product of a mixed race marriage between Jamaican and Indian immigrants, embraced her Blackness long before embarking on a career in public service.

‘I’m proud of being Black’ Harris was born in Oakland, California, in 1964, to Afro-Jamaican Donald Harris, who came to the United States to study economics, and Shyamala Gopalan, who emigrated from India at 19 to pursue her doctorate in nutrition and endocrinology. They met at the University of California, Berkeley, a hub of student activism, while participating in the civil rights movement -- and sometimes even taking a toddler Kamala along to marches.

Donald Harris remains a professor emeritus at Stanford University, while

Gopalan, who helped advance breast cancer research, passed away in 2009. After the couple divorced, Gopalan raised Kamala and her younger sister Maya, instilling pride in their South Asian roots.

Some went so far as to dub her the ‘female Obama’ after Barack Obama, who was elected the nation’s first Black president in 2008

She took them on trips to India and often expressed affection or frustration in Tamil, Kamala wrote in her 2019 book, “The Truths We Hold.” But Gopalan also understood she was raising two Black daughters. “She knew that her adopted homeland would see Maya and me as Black girls, and she was determined to ensure we grew into confident, proud

Carina’s warning bells

THE transit of Typhoon Carina in the last week of July, which flooded for days several areas in the metropolis and nearby provinces, should raise the wake-up call to Philippine authorities.

Given that the Philippines is an archipelagic country with a coastline of 36,289 kilometers, a joint scientific study released recently in Singapore becomes relevant and timely.

The study said typhoons in Southeast Asia are forming closer to coastlines, intensifying more rapidly and lasting longer over land due to climate change.

Researchers from the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and Rowan University and the University of Pennsylvania in the United States analyzed “more than 64,000 modeled historic and future storms from the 19th century through the end of the 21st century” to come up with the findings, a statement on the study said.

Published in the peer-reviewed Nature partner journal Climate and Atmospheric Science, the study “highlights significant changes in tropical

cyclone behaviors in Southeast Asia.”

The changes include “increased formation near coastlines and slower movement over land, which could pose new risks to the region,” the statement said, adding climate change, which has caused ocean waters to warm, can alter the paths of tropical storms in the region, home to more than 650 million people.

—“—

The President’s subordinates on the ground should look at the implementation of water impounding projects in watershed areas to mitigate flooding

“Our study shows that as the cyclones travel across warmer oceans from climate change, they pull in more water vapor and heat,” said Benjamin Horton, director of NTU’s Earth Observatory of Singapore and a co-author of the research.

On this, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was on track when, during a televised post-disaster situation briefing,

OKAY baroks, brace yourselves.

This story is like a reality TV show, but with less talent and more questionable decisions.

Our leading man? Alberto Rodulfo “AR” Dela Serna, the Mr. Supranational PH Winner, who’s gone from strutting on stage to strutting into Senate inquiries.

Imagine this: AR, a vision of pageantry perfection, now embroiled in the glamorous world of illegal offshore gaming operations. It’s like the plot twist nobody asked for.

So, AR finally breaks his silence about his “working relationship” with the former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.

You know, Harry – the guy who made a career out of defending the indefensible.

They met at a barangay project inauguration in Bohol. How quaint. It sounds like a rom-com, but instead of falling in love, they fall into a Senate hearing.

And what’s AR’s role in this scandalous affair?

Oh, just your average executive assistant living for free in a POGO hub while studying aviation.

Because nothing says “future pilot” like shacking up at an illegal gaming hub. He claims he had no idea why he wasn’t being charged rent.

Black women,” Harris wrote.

As a child, Harris was bused to a newly desegregated elementary school in a wealthier white neighborhood and attended a Black church on Sundays.

“I’m Black, and I’m proud of being Black, and I was born Black, I will die Black,” Harris told The Breakfast Club radio show in 2019.

But she’s continued to lean into her Indian heritage too, appearing in a 2019 video where she and actress Mindy Kaling, also of Indian descent, bonded over making dosas.

“She’s embraced her Blackness and her Indian heritage as well,” said Kerry Haynie, chair of political science at Duke University, adding Trump’s “race-baiting” attacks were aimed at galvanizing his own base.

Howard University and the ‘female Obama’

When it came time for college, Harris chose Howard University, a historically Black institution in the US capital, following in the footsteps

he told subalterns he wanted specifics not general statistics.

The President wanted a clearer picture of how rescue and rehabilitation efforts were not only in the national capital region but in other regions lashed by the typhoon, which also caused landslides in some parts, which enhanced the southwest monsoon that brought intense rainfall.

We believe disaster response agencies must ensure, as the President said, Filipinos receive timely warnings about incoming typhoons, along with clear instructions on what actions to take and where to seek shelter or assistance.

We heard the President’s assurance that the safety of the public is his administration’s top priority, adding, in a post on Facebook the Marcos government is ‘committed to developing technology to protect lives for future calamities.’

The statement followed a sectoral meeting with the Department of Public Works and Highways, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Department of Interior and Local Government, and other relevant agencies to discuss the government’s flood control program.

More than words this time, the President’s subordinates on the ground should look at the implementation of water impounding projects in watershed areas to mitigate flooding.

When Harry met AR: The bromance no one saw coming

“Never naman ako siningil,” he says. Right, AR, and I’ve never been charged for the air I breathe.

The audience laughs, Senator Hontiveros quips “Sana all!” and somewhere, the universe collectively facepalms.

Now, AR insists he knew nothing about the illegal activities at the POGO hub.

—“—

AR and Harry’s ‘working relationship’ is a cautionary tale about the dangers of mixing pageantry with politics and illegal gaming operations

Sure, AR. And I’m the King of England. Roque, ever the helpful mentor, introduced AR to Cassandra Ong, who magically provided free lodging. It’s like the fairy godmother of questionable real estate deals. Roque’s name pops up in documents found at the raided POGO hub, naturally. A travel authority document bear-

of her hero Thurgood Marshall, the first Black justice on the US Supreme Court.

She attended protests against apartheid in South Africa and joined the storied Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, founded to support Black women.

Today, its 360,000 members include leading figures in politics, the arts, science and more.

“It’s a powerful signal of alignment with Black Americans,” said Christopher Clark, a professor of political science at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

After Howard, Harris enrolled at UC Hastings College of the Law, where she was elected president of the Black Law Students Association.

As she progressed through her career -- elected San Francisco district attorney in 2003 and California’s attorney general in 2010 -- she was consistently identified as Black or African American in media reports. Some went so far as to dub her the

ing his name supposedly helped poor AR travel to Europe for his “various illnesses” like diabetes.

Because nothing says “urgent medical necessity” like a European vacation.

Let’s acidly break this down: AR is a pageant king turned aviation student, living rent-free in a POGO hub, with connections to a former presidential spokesperson. His honesty is about as believable as a politician’s campaign promises. The logic here is watertight – if you’re going to get into a scandal, make sure it’s the most bizarre, poorly explained situation possible.

Let’s get real:

Recommendations?

For AR: Maybe next time, try living in a place that isn’t the epicenter of illegal activities. Just a thought.

For Harry Roque: Perhaps vet your friends a bit better. Or at least stop signing documents that end up in illegal operations.

For the Senate: Keep the popcorn ready. This show is just getting started.

In the end, AR and Harry’s “working relationship” is a cautionary tale about the dangers of mixing pageantry with politics and illegal gaming operations.

It’s like trying to mix oil and water – or in this case, common sense and reality.

“female Obama” after Barack Obama, who was elected the nation’s first Black president in 2008. Their biographies have parallels: both are biracial, with Obama’s father a Kenyan economist and his mother a white American. Critics questioned the authenticity of his African American experience, and Trump may be using a similar tactic to try to discredit Harris, suggested Clark. However, being Black in America has always been a “very broad umbrella” due to the legacy of slavery, wrote Teresa Wiltz in a Politico oped, encompassing “myriad iterations of skin color and hair texture and life experiences.”

The most important Black political figures in US history have often been of mixed race, from abolitionist Frederick Douglass to activist-philosopher Angela Davis, Wiltz noted. If Harris identifies as Black, “we can -- and should -- take her word for it,” she said. AFP

Dominant Gialon sweeps JPGT Davao titles

DAVAO—Aldrien Gialon followed up his fiery tournament-best round with a steady 75, clinching the 16-18 category crown via a resounding 18-stroke victory over Nino Villacencio in the ICTSI Junior PGT Mindanao Series 2 at the South Pacific Golf and Leisure Estates here yesterday (Friday).

After pulling away from the field by 11 strokes with a brilliant 67 on Thursday, Gialon shifted from aggressive to conservative play in the final 18 holes,

effectively turning the round into a virtual practice session.

“With a huge lead, I played safe and aimed for par or bogey,” said Gialon,

who finished with three bogeys and no birdies for a 37-38 and a 72-hole total of eight-over 296, leading the sweep of the premier division by the local talents.

He played pressure-free throughout the final round that was a stark contrast to his scorching performance in the previous round, where he shot eight birdies against three bogeys for a five-under 67, nine strokes better than the previous tournament-best 76 he posted in the first round.

“There’s no pressure. I just focused on hitting the fairway and the green. If I made a mistake, I would recover on the next hole,”

said the 18-year-old student from EMAR Human and Environmental College.

The victory was Gialon’s second straight in the four-leg Mindanao swing of the nationwide series sponsored by ICTSI after dominating his cousin Adrian Bisera by 10 strokes at their home course in Apo last week.

Villacencio attempted to close the gap on Gialon’s overnight lead with an aggressive approach, but it backfired, resulting in an 82. However, he secured runner-up honors with a 314.

Bisera, unable to mount a comeback despite his local knowledge of the course, ended up with an 85 for third place at 324. South Cotabato’s Rainier Tagwalan, who finished third at Apo, wound up fourth at 326 after an 84, followed by Vince Naranjo (85-338) and Kenly Wacan (86-339) in the tournament organized by Pilipinas

With honor, dignity and pride

DISCLAIMER. The Designated Kit Man is not a judo expert or has even tried judo even once in his life.

I’m just an occasional fan since covering Kodo Nakano in the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games in Brazil eight years ago. Nakano was the last Filipino athlete to gain a berth in the 2016 Summer Games after an unexpected withdrawal of an Iranian bet in the Men’s 66kg category. Unfortunately, despite his efforts, Nakano lost via ippon to Italian Matteo Marconcini in his opening match and failed to advance. He gave the Italian a good match though lasting one minute and 19 seconds before yielding.

With that aside, I can only express my disappointment after watching Kiyomi Watanabe lose her match against Tang Jing of China in the -63kg category of the judo competitions of the ongoing 2024 Paris Olympics in France.

Watanabe ended her campaign after dropping her match against Tang in less than 50 seconds. It is easy to say that Watanabe is the clear underdog, that it would take a miracle for the 92nd ranked Filipina to win against her 22nd ranked Chinese opponent. Not to mention that like Nakano eight years, Watanabe was also among the last batch to gain an entry in Paris. These arguments are valid.

What I can’t understand, though, was the manner in which Watanabe lost the match. From what I saw, she hardly offered any resistance against Tang. Again I’m not a judo expert but even the ordinary fan can say a thing or two on how she fared in her match. Her walk from the tunnel towards the mat lasted longer than her Paris campaign. So what happened to Watanabe? Was she able to prepare well for the Paris Olympics? Where did she train before coming to the Summer Games? Did she get all the support that she needed? And more importantly, what can the Philippine Judo Federation (PJF) say about her performance? Ano ginawa niyo para kay Watanabe? I think Ali Sulit, PJF president, was with Watanabe during her match. I’m just wondering where her coach was.

Is it just me or I missed completely hearing or reading if there was ever a national tournament to select members of the national team that will represent the country in Paris or in any international tournament? If there was any, was it open to all? Are other qualified judokas given the opportunity to represent the country? Again, I’m not a judo expert, just an occasional fan having some questions that need some answers.

Moving forward, here is hoping that the remaining athletes still in contention in the Paris Olympics will do their best in making the country proud and inspired. A

medal, regardless of color, will go a long way for our kababayans, battered with so many concerns, including natural disasters and man-made ones, during these hard times. We all know that the opposition will be great and the odds even bigger in the Summer Games but if our bets go down, I’m praying that it will be with dignity, honor and pride knowing that they gave their best.

Except for the heartbreaking loss of defending champion Vergil Vitor in the main bout, the Kumong BolAnon’s 17th edition was a success.

Boxing promoter Atty. Floriezyl Podot was very happy not only because of the TV coverage provided by Tap Sports but also on the overall result for his venture. At least four fights were shown live on Tap Sports thru major cable operators nationwide plus on its mobile app platform Blast TV.

“This is the best so far in our 17 fight card series in terms of presentation, production, matchups and how the event flow was directed,” Podot said Podot is also hoping that Vitor will be able to bounce back soon after yielding his WBO Oriental Super Featherweight belt via TKO loss against Yeerjialahashi Laayibieke of China. Laayibieke completely dominated Vitor right from the opening bell before ending the fight in the middle of the fifth round much to the disappointment of the crowd which was hoping for a triple win for Bohol fighters. Earlier, Gerwin Asilo took the vacant WBO Oriental Bantamweight belt against Thai teenager Surat Eaim Ong via a first round stoppage. In the lone female fight of the evening, Althea Shine Pores defeated Maria Theresa Pinili via unanimous decision to claim the Philippine Junior Flyweight crown. Both Asilo and Pores are proud fighters of PMI Colleges Boxing Stable.

“We are planning to have another fight card hopefully before the year ends. We are just waiting for the result of ongoing negotiations,” Podot said after the event. The Kumong Bol-Anon XVll is one of the last projects that Chino Trinidad has been working on and I’m very sure that he is very happy up there that it turned out to be a memorable coverage. Shoutout to my brothers–Erick, Freddy, Mark, Filam, Kyle, Joel and Chokoy– at INFINITeight Productions for a job well done!

Rest easy Chino, this was for you. On a personal note, I wish all the love, good health and peace of mind to my Manila Standard bosses and good friends, Joyce Panares and Reira Mallari! Stay safe. Stay happy, Joyce and Reira! For comments or questions, you can reach The Designated Kit Man at erel_cabatbat@yahoo.com or follow his account at Twitter: @erelcabatbat

Golf Tournaments, Inc. and backed by PGTI official apparel Kampfortis Golf. Gialon joined other division winners on the podium, including James Rolida from Cagayan de Oro and Bataan’s Mavis Espedido (8-9), Ralph and sister Rafella Batican from Bukidnon (10-12), and AJ Wacan and Johanna Uyking (13-15), both from Davao.

Aldrien Gialon raises his hands in victory. Manny Marcelo

The Designated Kit Man Erel Cabatbat

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Obiena to defy odds despite lingering back pain

PARIS (Via PLDT Home) – His “bad back” notwithstanding, the Philippines’ Enest John Obiena shoots for a place in the men’s pole vault finals in the qualifying round starting at 10 a.m. Friday (4 p.m. Philippines) in the 2024 Paris Olympics at the Stade de France here.

Lingering back issues have cast a shadow over the readiness of Obiena, who checked into the Athlete’s Village on Wednesday as his confidante, Jim Lafferty disclosed that the Filipino athlete has been grappling with back pain since 2022.

Despite the persistent discomfort, Lafferty expressed optimism about Obiena’s current condition, attributing his progress to diligent recovery efforts.

Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association president Terry Capistrano joined the chorus of voices saying that the world’s no. 2 pole vaulter will be fine.

“He’s handling it properly and it’s being attended to. He should be okay,” said Capistrano. “He has a physician with him, who’s part of the team. And Dr. Raul Canlas is also here. Whatever it is, as far as I know, it’s manageable.” This was confirmed by Obiena’s long-time physiotherapist Antonio Guglietta, who assured that Obiena is currently injury-free.

If this is the case and the formcharts hold true, then Obiena should be a cinch to medal in the games.

Not so fast, says Capistrano.

“It’s easier said than done,” said the athletics’ chief. “Anyone from among the Top 10 can podium and the only guy who’s ahead of the pack is (Armand) Duplantis. But at the end of the day, we must remember that EJ is world No. 2. That’s the sum of what he’s been doing the past 12 to 18 months. ‘Yun ang suma total. So, he should be ready.”

A leap of 6 meters here should be enough to land Obiena a podium finish.

And Obiena is very capable of doing that, having achieved it twice on June 10, 2023, at the Sparebanken Vest Bergen Jump Challenge in Norway and on August 26, 2023, at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary, where he bagged the silver medal. Riera U. Mallari

Yulo, Paalam, and Villegas shoot for medals in Paris

vision is to demonstrate that sport can change lives, the mascots will be playing a major role by leading a revolution through sport. The Olympic Phryge is decked out in blue, white, and red - the colors of France’s

emblazoned across its chest. (Photo taken using

Cignal TV leads MVP Group’s splendid Olympic coverage

AS the Philippine Olympic delegates battle through the competition, Cignal TV, together with MVP Group companies PLDT, Smart, Meralco, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, mWell, and Carmen’s Best, is at the forefront of galvanizing support for Filipino athletes competing in the Olympics.

As Official Broadcaster of the games, Cignal TV is providing unparalleled coverage of the various competitions across multiple platforms – from free-to-air TV to pay TV, OTT, and social media channels. PLDT and Smart are the Official Broadcast Partners, while MPIC and Meralco are the Official Broadcast Sponsors for the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

“Sports is a metaphor for life. When our athletes succeed, it shows our countrymen what is possible, and what they themselves can achieve. It inspires us, and unites us,” said PLDT, MPIC, and

Mediaquest Chairman, Manuel V. Pangilinan. “Through our collective efforts led by Cignal, we are doing our part to empower our athletes to aim for greater success.”

In partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee, Cignal TV has provided Filipino sports fans unprecedented access to their favorite athletes. From their preparation and training, down to their daily experiences in Paris, Cignal TV is showcasing our Olympic athletes’ challenging journey to the Filipino audience.

One Sports has become the central open platform hub for livestreaming select events, highlights, features, and articles for all things Olympics.

In addition, Cignal TV has launched three 24/7 channels dedicated to the Olympic Games, as well streaming the coverage live via Cignal Play. Satlite, meanwhile, offers two 24/7 channels for their subscribers.

By Riera U. Mallari

PARIS—The Philippine campaign in the 2024 Paris Olympics goes overdrive Friday when gymnast Carlos Yulo and boxers Carlo Paalam and Aira Villegas shoot for the elusive medals that have eluded their beaten compatriots all week.

Of the three, Yulo guns for no less than the golds in his favorite events—the floor exercise and then later, the vault, at the Bercy Arena starting at 3:30 p.m. (9:30 Philippines) in an effort to erase the memory of his Tokyo Olympics stint, where he came out empty-handed despite his status as 2019 World Championship Floor Exercise champ.

“Sa floor, magaling siya diyan. At least one gold, maybe two, if he does well in the vault,” said Gymnastics Association of the Philippines’ president Cynthia Carrion of the chances of Yulo, a former world champion in those two events.

In the floor exercise event of the all-around finals, though, Yulo was not even the top finishers with his 14.333, with FilBritish Jake Jarman (14.900) Ukraine’s Illia Kovtun (14.700) setting the pace.

On the cusp of history, Paalam shoots for a second straight Olympic games’ medal when he takes on tall Australian fourth seed Charlie Senior in the quarterfinals of the men’s 57kg division at the North Paris Arena, where a victory will assure him of a bronze.

The 3:46 p.m. (9:46 p.m. Philippines) showdown will be a stern test for the former garbage scavenger Paalam, who found fame and fortune from boxing ever since bagging a silver medal in the Tokyo Olympics three years ago.

Standing six inches taller at 5’10”, Senior presents a significant height advantage over the 5’4” Paalam, who knows he must be quick and smart to overcome this challenge.

“I’ll just follow my coaches’ strategy, and I think I have a good chance,” Paalam said after his unanimous decision victory over Irish boxer Jude Gallagher.

“But I can’t relax, this is the Olympics.” Gallagher was considered Paalam’s toughest opponent, before a potential semifinal clash with Uzbekistan’s Abdumalik Khalolov, a familiar foe from the past Asian Games.

Meanwhile, Senior enters the bout with momentum after a 4-1 win over Belgian Vasile Ustoroi. The Australian, known for his dancing skills, even celebrated his victory with a backflip.

“I didn’t come in here looking for easy fights,” Senior said in an interview with the Australian Olympic Committee. On the other hand, Villegas, the biggest surprise of the Philippine boxing team here, also aims for at least a bronze when she takes on hometown bet Wassila Lkhadiri in the quarters of the 50-kg division on early Sunday (3:20 a.m.).

“Hopefully, we’ll have fair judging,” said Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino.

“The French woman’s victory over the favored Irish girl was controversial,” added the POC chief, referring to Lkhadiri’s 4-1 win over Ireland’s Daina Moorehouse.

The first-time Olympian Villegas pulled off a stunning upset win right on her 29th birthday, defeating the secondseeded Roumaysa Boualam of Algeria in the Round of 16. Also on Saturday, Ernest John Obiena shoots for a place in the men’s pole vault finals in the qualifying round starting at 10 a.m. Friday (4 p.m. Philippines).

RTU captures four arnis golds

INDANG, Cavite—Rizal Technological University made its presence felt by bagging four gold medals in arnis in the 2nd Philippine Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) Games Luzon NCR Leg at the Cavite State University (CvSU). Winning gold medals for the Mandaluyong-based team are Bobbelle Abelis in the women’s featherweight, Ashley Joy Rico in the lightweight, Joana Erica Dela Cruz in the welterweight, and Ren Ren Reyes in the men’s welterweight in the Philippine Army bracket. Philippine Merchant Marine Academy claimed three gold medals in the Navy unit from Eunice Bucalen in the women’s featherweight, Grace Lina Fuentes in the lightweight, and Isabela Beatrice Burac in the welterweight. In the Air Force division, the Philippine

State College of Aeronautics and Tanauan Institute Inc. each won two gold medals. Elsewhere, De La Salle University’s Danielle Benjamina Cruz and Dexter Blinda Cruz finished 1-2 in the shooting competition at the ARESCOM Camp Riego, De Dios in Tanza, Cavite. Danielle Cruz finished with a total score of 272, ahead of Dexter Cruz, who had 267 and Ravin Destinee Ruaboro, who had 252. In taekwondo, Francis Agojo and Vincent Nebreja of Central Bicol State University of Agriculture stamped their class and captured the gold medal in Army. Agojo bested Joshua Carl Alexis Umali of Quirino State University, who settled for silver, and Renville Jaye Maristela of Osmena Colleges and Mario D. Rigos of

San Juan extends win-run; Batangas, Davao triumph

SAN Juan trounced Bataan, 97-81, on Thursday to extend its win-run in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Sixth Season at the Kamalig Gym in Orion, Bataan.

Getting the lift from hot-shooting AC Soberano and Michael Malonzo, the San Juan Knights led by as far as 44-24 and were never headed en route to their 8th straight victory and a 17-1 record in the round-robin elimination phase of the 29-team tournament.

Sinking 7 triples, Soberano wound up with 25 points, including 11 in the fourth quarter, and 3 assists to clinch the Daily Fantasy best player honors over Malonzo, who finished with 20 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists.

Orlan Wamar supported them with 11 points plus 7 assists, followed by Dexter Maiquez with 9 points plus 8 rebounds as the Knights, the 2021 MPBL champion, overtook the Quezon Huskers (16-1) and moved closer to the Pampanga Giant Lanterns (19-1).

The Bataan Risers, who dropped to 5-15, drew 23 points from Yves Sazon, 14 from Rhaffy Octobre and 10 from Dante Paguio. Earlier games saw Batangas City Tanduay Rum trample Bacolod City of Smiles, 79-54, and Davao

OLYMPIC MASCOT. This is the Paris 2024 mascot Olympic Phryge, based on the traditional small Phrygian hats that the mascots are shaped after. The name and design were chosen as symbols of freedom and to represent allegorical gures of the French Republic. The Olympic Phryge takes the shape and form of a Phrygian cap. As Paris 2024’s

famed tricolor ag - with the golden Paris 2024 logo

OPPO Reno12 Pro 5G)

Medalists, technical officials, and a working group from the Philippine Sports Commission, Department of National Defense, Commission on Higher Education, and Office of Sen. Francis Tolentino gather for a photo opportunity during the closing ceremony of the Arnis competition of the Philippine ROTC Games 2024 - Luzon Leg at the Cavite State UniversityIndang Campus.

AC Soberano turns hot for the San Juan Knights.

Some 1,500 members of the Filipino community in France join members of the Philippine delegation in the Paris Olympics led by Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino in a High Mass on Thursday, August 1, at the Èglise Sainte-Madeleine Church. Seven priests— six of them Filipinos—o ciated the Mass that was celebrated in Tagalog. Screengrab from Cignal TV

DISASTER RESPONSE.

The Department of National Defense’s Office of Civil Defense (DND-OCD) and the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) forge a partnership that would integrate mining companies into the OCD’s national disaster risk reduction and management network. Signing the memorandum of understanding are DND Undersecretary and OCD administrator Ariel Nepomuceno (left) and COMP chairman Michael Toledo. Through the MOU, mining companies will play a more active role in coordinating and assisting with disaster response. This will leverage the resources and expertise of both parties to ensure a more efficient and effective response to natural disasters across the Philippines.

$5 billion

GCash market valuation

8% P6.7 billion

GCash stake acquired by MUFG

GCash’s income in 2023

Seven-month investments jumped 65% to P1.15t—BOI

By Othel V. Campos

THE Board of Investments (BOI) said investment approvals jumped 65 percent in the first seven months of 2024 to P1.15 trillion from a year ago. Key projects approved in July include a P185-billion solar project with battery storage system, a P1.2billion biscuit manufacturing facility and investments in solar rooftop and activated carbon production.

BOI managing head Ceferino Rodolfo expressed confidence about exceeding the P1.6-trillion full-year investment target.

“With the momentum we have built, we are confident in achieving and exceeding this goal, driving economic development,” Rodolfo said, noting the additional 27,207 workers added to the workforce.

The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) credited outgoing Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual for the record investments this year.

“We congratulate Secretary Pascual for doing a very good job in pursuing the DTI mandate of overseeing the effective implementation of fair trade laws, protecting consumer welfare through education and information dissemination programs and nurturing an environment that is conducive to doing business,” said MAP president Rene Almendras.

The group highlighted Pascual’s efforts to help improve the global competitiveness of the Philippines by supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through better access to financing and business development services.

Ayala, MUFG investments boost GCash value to $5b

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GLOBE Fintech Innovations Inc. (Mint), the parent company of GCash, doubled its valuation to $5 billion from $2 billion after securing substantial investments from Ayala Corp. and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) of Japan.

This solidifies Mynt’s position as a leading fintech player in the Philippines and signals its ambitious plans for future growth and innovation.

Ayala, through its subsidiary AC Ventures Holdings Inc., will expand its ownership in Mynt by 8 percent, while MUFG Bank Ltd. will acquire an equal stake. These investments underscore the growing confidence in Mynt’s potential to revolutionize the Philippine financial landscape.

The proposed investment is subject to the execution of definitive transaction documents and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

Upon completion, MUFG will join Mynt’s shareholder base, while Ayala will increase its stake in Mynt. Morgan Stanley acted as exclusive financial advisor to Mynt.

“We are thrilled to welcome MUFG

as a new strategic partner. With their global expertise and reach within the financial inclusion space, they will be instrumental in further expanding GCash’s social impact, especially to the underserved,” Mynt president and chief executive Martha Sazon said.

“Alongside this, Ayala’s unmatched commitment to Philippine economic growth & development, and its expertise in multiple industries will accelerate GCash’s mission,” she said.

Yasushi Itagaki, senior managing corporate executive and head of global commercial banking business group at MUFG, described GCash as an indispensable infrastructure for Filipinos. “We are delighted to join Mynt as a strategic investor to support the growth of the company,” Itagaki said.

By Darwin G. Amojlear

FINANCE Secretary Ralph G. Recto

asked the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to improve tax collection through digitalization to fund government programs and stimulate economic growth.

“For the truth is, when fiscal targets are not met, it is the people who pay for such failure. Projects that would improve their lot today are denied of funding, creating a pile-up of debts that will be paid by our children tomorrow,” Recto said in his keynote speech at the BIR’s 120th anniversary on Aug. 1, 2024.

“However, when revenue improvement is sustained, the needs of the people are met. This makes possible investments that spur economic

NCR office space stock expanded 3.2% in Q2

METRO Manila’s office space market remained robust and expanded 3.2 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2024, amid a surge in new supply, real estate services firm KMC Savills said in its latest report. KMC Savills said total office space inventory in the National Capital Region reached 9.4 million square meters in the second quarter, up from 9.1 million sq. m. in the

at 46 percent, followed by government

offices in the Bay Area where office supply reached 1,286,215 sq. m. as of the second quarter.

BGC and Bay Area continued to be hotspots for real estate transactions. BGC attracted IT-BPM companies due to operational efficiency and quality considerations, while the Bay Area experienced a rebound in leasing activity, driven by the influx of government agencies.

Despite the increased supply, BGC’s vacancy rate decreased to 9 percent in the second quarter, while the Bay Area’s vacancy rate also declined to 21.9 percent in the second quarter from 27.9 percent in the first quarter on strong demand and its strategic location. Othel V. Campos

growth, which in turn, creates jobs, improves income, and increases our people’s capacity to pay taxes. This is the virtuous cycle we are championing,” he said.

Recto tasked the BIR to collect P3.05 trillion this year, which means a daily haul of P8.2 billion or P342.5 million an hour.

This translates into a capita revenue production per employee of P191.5 million annually starting this year.

Recto reiterated his call to leverage digitalization to promote the ease of paying taxes, citing the BIR’s Digital Roadmap for 2024-2028 as a guide on how to achieve their goal.

“I am sticking to my guns that more revenues can be raised by simplifying, shortening, streamlining, and speeding up the process, without leaving

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto (left) and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo Lumagui unveil the new logo of the BIR during its 120th anniversary. Lumagui says the new logo, made by taxpayers and revenuers, shows the inclusive approach of BIR to the private sector.

the government shortchanged, than a slew of higher, newer tax laws,” he said.

Recto said IT should be deployed as liberation technology that makes the life of taxpayers easier, as complex payment processes discourage tax obedience.

He encouraged the BIR to keep up its digitalization initiatives and implement the online registration update system; optimized knowledge management for chatbot review; and electronic one-time transaction system, among others to prove its capabilities in ICT infrastructure.

Recto also stressed the importance of stronger coordination between government agencies through datasharing to create a united front in plugging tax leakages and loopholes.

CLARK International Airport Corp. (CIAC) and Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) signed a memorandum of understanding on July 30, 2024 to collaborate on the development of the 62-hectare National Food Hub at Clark Civil Aviation Complex.

“This is a strategic partnership with a leading agricultural state university near Clark. It has a specific mandate to support the community and the country, focusing on capacity building in logistical planning for the food hub and the entire Clark civil aviation complex,” said CIAC president Arrey Perez.

The MOU outlines several areas of collaboration, including research and development, extension and training projects, food security and sustainable farming systems, human resource sharing and staff training and capability-building activities.

PSAU president Anita David committed to sharing its academic research and aligning studies with CIAC’s expected deliverables for the project.

The P8.5-billion National Food Hub Project envisions a state-of-the-art facility replicating advanced agro-logistics systems from Asia and Europe. It aims to elevate food safety standards and provide better opportunities for local farmers, fisherfolk and growers.

The project timeline includes the completion of the feasibility study and pre-tender documents by January 2025, with the project concession agreement expected to be signed by January 2026. Othel V. Campos

URC announces exit from China market

By Jenniffer B. Austria

FOOD manufacturer Universal Robina Corp. (URC) said Friday it is exiting the China market where it operates cereals and snacks businesses.

URC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it stopped manufacturing and selling cereals and snacks in China in the first half of 2024, with the full closure expected by 2025.

The company did not provide a reason for the decision, but said its move to wind down its operations in the country would allow it to “redeploy resources to higher-growth markets

across the region”. The company operated two manufacturing plants in China in Jiangsu and Guangdong.

Aside from China, URC also operates in other Asian countries including Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong.

URC said it booked P580-million

loss from discontinued China operations in the first half.

The company said total net income attributable to equity holders of the parent decreased by 1 percent in the first half to P6.6 billion.

Net income from continuing operations grew 8 percent year-on-year to P7.6 billion on higher operating income, while core net income grew 5 percent to P 6.7 billion, with higher tax provisions offsetting operating income growth.

First-half sales climbed 3 percent to P80.7 billion, with all business units posting higher volumes.

Operating income growth outpaced topline, increasing by 10 percent versus the same period last year to end

the first half at P9.4 billion.

“Against a challenged macroeconomic landscape, URC delivered volume-led growth and strong profits. The strength of our wide portfolio allows us to continue delighting our consumers with good food and beverages choices, while also enabling us to reward shareholders with steadily increasing dividends,” URC president and chief executive officer Irwin Lee said.

“We look forward to the continued recovery of consumer sentiment in the balance of the year,” Lee said Sales from branded consumer foods, excluding packaging and China, ended at P54.7 billion in the first

half, up by 2 percent year-on-year. Domestic sales inched up by 1 percent P37.6 billion. It said that while volume grew despite a high base in 2023, sales were tempered by weaker consumer sentiment. International business sustained its strong growth momentum, with sales rising 8 percent on a constant currency basis to reach P17.1 billion.

URC said key markets continued to deliver growth despite the overall macroeconomic weakness across Southeast Asia.

The group’s agro-industrial and commodities group also posted sales of P25.5 billion, higher by 7 percent from a year ago level.

stocks fall amid sell-offs;

peso rises to 58.08 a dollar

US RECESSION fears caused another round of sell-offs Friday, with the local bourse closing just slightly above the 6,600 level.

The benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) lost 88.53 points, or 1.32 percent, to close at 6,605.30, while the broader allshares index shed 32.28 points, or 0.89 percent, to settle at 3,596.90.

Analysts said the PSEi declined along with US and regional stocks on growing fears of potential recession over the prolonged high interest rate environment.

They said while the US Federal Reserve signaled possible rate cut in its next policy meeting next month, the renewed concerns on the health of the US economy dampened investor sentiment.

“Given some dismal economic data in the US, investors were worried that the Federal Reserve might now be late in easing monetary policy potentially leading to a recession,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Claire Alviar said.

All sectors ended in the red with services, posting the biggest loss of 1.97 percent. This was followed by financials, declining 1.67 percent and property, dropping 1.11 percent. Value turnover reached P4.98 billion.

Foreign investors were net sellers with outflows reaching P189.04 million.

Among the 30-PSEi member companies, only six stocks ended in the green. Globe Telecom Inc. jumped 2.59 percent after e-wallet brand GCash obtained fresh funding from Ayala Corp. and Japan’s Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc.

Meanwhile, the peso climbed on expected rate cuts by the Fed in August. It closed 58.08 against the US dollar Friday, up from 58.33 Thursday. Jenniffer B. Austria

BUSINESS

Semirara’s profit dropped 41% to P6b in 2nd quarter

By Jenniffer B. Austria

SEMIRARA Mining and Power Corp., the coal mining and power generation unit of the Consunji family, said Friday second-quarter net income fell 41 percent to P6 billion from P10.2 billion in the same period last year as coal and electricity prices continued to drop from record levels.

“Despite our efforts to manage costs and improve operational efficiencies, the persistent decline in global coal and electricity prices has significantly impacted our financial performance,” said Semirara president and chief operating officer Maria Cristina Gotianun in a disclosure to the stock exchange.

The company said that from April to June, the average Newcastle Index (NEWC) and Indonesian Coal Index 4 (ICI4) both declined by 16 percent. Average NEWC fell from $160.7 to $135.6, while ICI4 dropped from $65.1 to $55.

The average selling price of electricity also decreased by 10 percent, from P6.22 per kilowatt-hour to P5.58/kWh on lower spot market prices and fuel costs for baseload plants.

The second-quarter results pushed Semirara’s first-half net income to

P12.6 billion, down 34 percent from P19.2 billion a year earlier on the combined effect of weaker selling prices, higher total coal production costs and increased coal and electricity sales volume.

“The second half of the year should be more of the same for us in terms of coal prices. We also expect coal production, electricity demand and spot prices to taper because of the rainy season,” Gotianun said. Meanwhile, coal shipment in the second quarter rose 2 percent to 4.6 million metric ton (MT) from 4.5 million MT in the same period last year on stronger domestic demand. Domestic shipments accelerated 16 percent to 2.2 million MT from 1.9 million MT, driven by higher sales to subsidiaries SEM-Calaca Power Corp. (SCPC) and Southwest Luzon Power Generation Corp. (SLPGC).

Technical working group formed to study FMD vaccine production

By Othel V. Campos

AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. created a technical working group to study the feasibility and viability of manufacturing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccines in the Philippines.

Tiu Laurel said while the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) recognized the Philippines as FMD-free without vaccination since 2014, the country should be prepared for potential outbreaks.

“To maintain our FMD-free status and protect against future incursions, we must explore the possibility of local FMD vaccine production,” he said.

He said that with no FMD vaccinations administered to livestock in decades, the local cattle, swine and goat populations remain vulnerable to the highly contagious disease.

The FMD cases reported in neighboring countries like Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam further underscore the need for vigilance and preparedness, he said.

DA assistant secretary for swine and poultry Constante Palabrica was appointed chairman of the technical working group.

Management

shares the accomplishments

the

which

ceremonial turnover of its 3rd progress report to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Anti-trust body signs lease to establish office at UP Diliman

THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and the University of the Philippines (UP) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish the anti-trust body’s new office at UP Diliman campus in Quezon City.

The agreement, signed on July 30, 2024, will see the PCC lease a 1,620-square-meter plot for 25 years, with an option for extension.

The PCC, an independent, quasi-judicial body tasked to implement Republic Act No. 10667, currently holds office at Vertis North Corporate Center 1 on North Ave, Quezon City.

“UP has remained at the forefront of academic excellence and public service. It is PCC’s honor to be associated with the state university and contribute to nation-building,” said PCC chairperson Michael Aguinaldo.

The PCC, with support from the Asian Development Bank, seeks to establish an academic center of excellence in competition law and policy at the UP College of Law aside from the new office. The PCC is the country’s primary antitrust agency that promotes fair business practices and benefits consumers. Othel V. Campos

Meralco relocates power lines affected by rail projects

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is working with the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) to expedite the relocation of power facilities that will be affected by ongoing rail projects.

DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista thanked Meralco for completing 47 percent of nearly 700 relocation work orders, “We are grateful to Meralco for acting swiftly on these work orders,” Bautista said.

Bautista said to meet the DOTr’s construction schedule for rail projects, several Meralco power facilities needed to be relocated.

“We want Meralco to be on board, so we can efficiently solve right-ofway issues and accomplish these projects as soon as possible,” he said.

The DOTr earlier said 23 of its 69 infrastructure projects focused on railway improvements and expansions. Five of these projects, including the North-South Commuter Railway, Metro Manila Subway, LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension, MRT Line 7 and MRT Line 3 rehabilitation, are under construction.

Bautista said the railway projects were expected to resolve the country’s traffic woes. He said the NorthSouth Commuter Railway (NSCR) System could service at least a million passengers, while the MRT-3 line could carry 500,000 passengers daily once completed.

HALAL SUMMIT. Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco joins hands with other government officials and private sector partners in a commitment to Halal Friendly Philippines and Halal Friendly Pasay, as part of the inaugural edition of the Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Summit. Organized by the Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Exposition (PHTTE) and the Universal Islamic Foundation (UIF), with support from government and private sector partners, the summit is a key highlight of the 24th edition of the World Food Expo (WOFEX) held from July

31 to Aug. 3, 2024, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM).

BARMM REPORT. Department of Budget and

(DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman (left)

of

Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB),

she co-chairs with Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal during the

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2024

Iran, allies plan joint but lean retaliation

BEIRUT– Iran and armed groups backed by it are preparing coordinated action meant to deter Israel but avert allout war, sources and analysts said, after the killings of top Hamas and Hezbollah figures.

On Wednesday, Iranian officials met in Tehran with representatives of the socalled “Axis of Resistance” -- a loose alliance of Tehran-backed groups hostile

vs. Israel

on the meeting told AFP, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters.

Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened a “harsh punishment” for the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which the group blamed on Israel, also vowing revenge. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah warned Thursday his group was bound to respond to Israel’s killing of top mili

Biden, Harris greet US prisoners freed in swap

JOINT BASE ANDREWS – President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris hugged journalist Evan Gershkovich on Thursday (Friday Manila time) as he and two other Americans arrived back on US soil after being freed by Russia in a huge prisoner swap

Wall Street Journal reporter Gershkovich, former US marine Paul Whelan, and journalist Alsu Kurmasheva were met by cheers from family and friends as they disembarked a plane, before each embracing Biden and Harris.

“It feels wonderful, it was a long time coming,” Biden told reporters at Joint Base Andrews near Washington, where he and Harris welcomed the freed prisoners at around 11:40 pm (11.40 am in Manila). They were among two dozen detainees released earlier Thursday in the biggest East-West prisoner swap since the Cold War.

A fourth freed prisoner, Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Russian Kremlin critic with US residency, was also among those freed but was returning separately to the United States. In total 10 Russians, including two minors, were traded for 16 Westerners and Russians imprisoned in Russia in a dramatic exchange on the airport tarmac in

Turkey’s capital Ankara. “Alliances make a difference. They stepped up and took a chance for us,” Biden said of the deal, which also involved Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Belarus on the other side. Harris, who is the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee after Biden dropped out of the 2024 election, heralded “an extraordinary day.” The freed prisoners and their relatives are now expected to travel to San Antonio, Texas, for medical evaluations and any care they need at the Brooke Army Medical Center, US media said.

The most high profile prisoner was Gershkovich, 32, who was detained in Russia in March 2023 on a reporting trip and sentenced in July to 16 years in prison on spying charges denounced by the United States. AFP

ago, the weather agency said, as extreme heatwaves fueled by climate change engulfed many parts of the globe. Temperatures in the country were 2.16 degrees Celsius higher than average, breaking last year’s record for July of 1.91 degrees Celsius above average.

“It was the highest since statistics began in 1898,” the Japan Meteorological Agency said Thursday, noting that the figures were “considerably higher” nationwide. Of 153 observation posts across Japan, 62 broke their average temperature record in July.

Contributing factors included a highpressure system over the Pacific and “warm air from the south” that shrouded northern parts of the archipelago, the JMA said.

RACE VS. TIME. This handout photograph taken on Friday and released by India’s National Disaster Response Force shows IAF Mi-17V5 helicopter deployed at Gauchar to evacuate stranded pilgrims of Kedarnath. Monsoon downpours caused flash floods that killed 13 people in India’s Himalayan foothills, officials said, with helicopters rescuing hundreds stranded near a renowned Hindu shrine. In Kerala state, landslides killed more than 200 people, officials said. AFP

Since April, heatstroke has killed 59 people in Japan, according to the disaster management agency. Parasols and chunky necklaces that can be stored in the freezer have been a common sight around Tokyo, where street performer Jiro Kan, 56, told AFP he was feeling the heat.

“After spending two hours standing here, I get so sweaty I can literally squeeze it all out from my shirt. I’m drenched,” said Kan, dressed in an all-yellow suit. AFP

WASHINGTON, DC – Donald Trump is facing a fierce backlash for questioning the race of US election rival Kamala Harris, but to those acquainted with the Republican’s long history of inflammatory language and behavior around the issue, the smear was nothing new.

Trump’s political career was forged in the cauldron of the 2010s “birther” conspiracy theory that sought to delegitimize then president Barack Obama -- who had a Kenyan father -- by claiming falsely that he was born abroad.

Those who say Trump is racist point to dozens

‘FEAT OF DIPLOMACY.’ US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris watch as former prisoner held by Russia US-Russian journalist Alsu Kurmasheva embraces her family as she arrives at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Friday. Biden hailed the prisoner swap with Russia as a ‘feat of diplomacy’ that has ended their ‘agony.’ Jailed US journalist Evan Gershkovich and a Russian intelligence colonel jailed for a Berlin murder were among

released by the Turkish presidency. AFP

Accenture: Digital core investments accelerate reinvention, innovation

NEW research from Accenture finds that organizations with an advanced digital core, investments in strategic innovation and a balanced approach to their technical debt achieved 60% higher revenue growth rate and 40% higher profits.

“Continuous reinvention is now the default strategy because of the pace of change. Organizations are trying to figure out how technology impacts their business operations, especially amid new advancements like generative AI,” said Karthik Narain, group chief executive of Technology at Accenture. “Capturing value from disruptive technologies with an industry-leading digital core is more than a critical success factor, it’s a survival factor. A strong digital core is essential to be ready for reinvention and rapidly seize every new opportunity.” For the report, “Reinventing with a Digital Core,” Accenture analyzed findings from 1,500 technology executives in 19 industries across 10 countries. Accenture’s research revealed that an advanced digital core is key to helping enterprises build the technology capability needed to be ready for ongoing reinvention across the business. This requires using the right mix of cloud-first infrastructure and corresponding practices for agility and innovation, data and AI for differentiation, applications and platforms to accelerate growth,

XIAOMI gives people a fresh option for mobile audio with the new Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo, its newest wireless earbuds that prioritize comfort and durability all at an affordable price.

The Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo’s pride is its innovative open-ear design that promises all-day comfort thanks to its secure fit from its soft and skinfriendly liquid silicone and nickel-titanium shape-memory alloy. The Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo provides top-tier wireless performance, boasting crystal-clear audio quality and optimized bass despite noisy environments because of its 12x17mm elliptical dynamic driver and LHDC codec support. Its groundbreaking tailor-made dual-cell system powered by its 10mm Sound Leakage Reduction Driver protects your privacy and keeps everything you hear inside your ear. Calls are also crisp and noise-free thanks to its dual-mic noise reduction.

The Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo is also made to go all day. You don’t need to worry about its battery running out as the Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo can keep going nonstop. Aside from 7.5 hours of continuous playback, its charging case can extend the total battery life to an astonishing 38.5 hours at a single full charge. Other features include IP54 dust and water resistance, customizable touch controls through the Xiaomi Earbuds app, and seamless integration across other Xiaomi devices in the Xiaomi HyperOS ecosystem.

All of these make the Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo super versatile. Whether you want to use it for streaming or gaming while hiking, running, outdoor activities, or simply staying indoors, these are the best earbuds for the budget-conscious who prioritize value and functionality.

The Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo will be available in Xiaomi’s official Lazada and Shopee stores for a special sale price of P5,699.

Learn more about the Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo by visiting the official Xiaomi website at http://mi.com.

next-generation experiences and optimized operations—with security at every level.

Accenture’s research also identified AI as a top contributor to technical debt—the cost and effort required to keep IT systems up to date and capable of meeting business needs, accumulated through choices that prioritize speed over long-term maintainability.

41% of executives cite it as a top-three contributor, tied with applications/ platforms. Conversely, AI can also be used to manage and mitigate tech debt, along with new ways of designing systems. Traditionally, this mostly came from legacy code, outdated technologies, and a lack of documentation, but the rapid adoption of AI is adding new technical debt.

Accenture’s study outlines three key tenets to achieve a digital core that’s reinvention ready. When these three tenets are adopted concurrently, businesses can experience considerable rewards, attaining 60% higher revenue growth rates and 40% boost in profits.

1. Build an advanced digital core, tailored to specific industry needs: Accenture’s research shows that companies need to achieve an “industryleading” level of digital core capability to empower continuous reinvention. While the journey may seem complex, Accenture’s survey found that improving one capability—like data—can trigger automatic improvements in others. For this reason, companies should first assess where they are across their digital core capabilities, then prioritize “no-regret” moves based on areas of need. This will catalyze a virtuous cycle of continuous improvements across the digital core.

2. Boost investments in strategic

Palawan Group, eTap to simplify transactions for PalawanPay users

THE Palawan Group of Companies, the trusted name in money remittance (Palawan Express Padala) and pawning services (Palawan Pawnshop) in the Philippines, has entered into a collaborative partnership with eTap, which offers self-service payment machines and kiosks, through their digital wallet, the PalawanPay.

The partnership is a win-win for PalawanPay’s sukis, who can now conveniently cash in their accounts by using any of eTap’s over 2,777 kiosks nationwide.

Representing the Palawan Group of Companies during the signing of the agreement were Chief Business Development Officer, Lisa Lou CastroSabado; Head of B2B Group, Missy

MOST recent statistics on cancer have shown a significant increase in the rate of cancer globally that makes awareness and early detection urgent today. In the latest report by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in 2022, nearly twenty million new cases of cancer were recorded along with 9.7 million deaths. These statistics have become more disturbing since it is estimated that the annual number of new cases will rise to thirty five million by 2050.

In Southeast Asia, new cases increased to 1.1 million and have caused death to seven hundred thousand people in 2022 alone, with breast, lung, and colorectal cancers as three of the leading causes.

Part of addressing this global trend, the World Health Organization (WHO) set goals to reduce the impact of non-communicable diseases (NCD), including cancer, through prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care, prioritizing a holistic approach to managing and reducing cancer cases. Specialized cancer-care institutions in Southeast Asia, such as Parkway Cancer Center, have been taking action to boost these efforts by providing modern facilities, advanced treatment options, and comprehensive support services for patients.

On July 30, 2024, Parkway Cancer Center hosted a media roundtable titled “Common Adult Cancers: Prevention, Screening, and Treatment” at the New World Hotel to raise further awareness and educate the public on cancer prevention and treatment.

Dr. Zee Ying Kiat, Senior Consult-

Baldemor; and Head of Innovation, JC Medina. Also present were eTap Chief Executive Officer, Percy Hernandez; President, Marlon Portugal; Chief Strategy Officer, Juan Miguel Hernandez; Business Development Senior Manager, Ernie Eusebio; and COO Jana Cruzado.

“We are true to our vision and mission to help upgrade the lives of our countrymen. This partnership comes at a very opportune time since most Filipinos have transitioned to using digital wallets as their mode of payments. With this, we would like to thank you, Sir Percy and the eTap team. We look forward to more collaborations with you,” said Palawan Group’s Castro-Sabado. “It is an honor for us to partner with the Palawan Group. We’ve actually been talking to

others about other concepts, but Palawan has shown so much interest and that is why we are here. I look forward to our continued collaboration in the coming years, as we work together to enhance both of our services and achieve mutual growth,” said eTap’s Percy Hernandez. This year, the Palawan Group of Companies has forged several partnerships that have allowed them to become closer to the masses. With the addition of eTap, their products and services have become more accessible to the Filipino people. Because of this, more people can be more aware about the services and features of the PalawanPay app and eTap kiosks, allowing more users to have easy access to sending and receiving money wherever they are in the Philippines. This

ant of Medical Oncology at Parkway Cancer Center, led the discussion on the advancements in treatment and essential facts about different types of cancer, drawing from his extensive research and clinical experience.

Cancer causes and prevention today

According to the classifications by IARC, cancer develops when normal cells turn into tumor cells through several stages. As per Dr. Zee, tumor cells can become more abnormal and aggressive, giving them the ability to affect nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body. Changes happen due to the interaction between a person’s genetic factors and three types of external agents: physical carcinogens like ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and ionizing radiation, chemical carcinogens such as components of tobacco smoke, alcohol, and food

innovation, including re-engineering systems for machine (AI) operations: Companies should monitor the rate at which they increase the proportion of their IT spend on innovation, as opposed to operations, as a key performance indicator. Accenture’s research found that a year-over-year increase of at least 6% is necessary to be reinvention ready. Additional budget can be found when companies reduce inefficiencies with actions such as joining vendors for additional guidance, optimizing cloud costs and operationalizing automation. Companies can use the resulting discretionary funds to redesign business processes, launch new products and services and enter new markets. Pre-integrated solutions from ecosystem marketplaces provide a starting point. Ultimately, companies need a digital core designed for both humans and machines so both can interact seamlessly with each other and create value through intention—not instruction—driven workflows for business processes. The more immediate focus should be to re-engineer systems for machine (AI) operations.

3. Balance technical debt with investments for the future, using programmatic and autonomous methods: Accenture’s analysis shows that about 15% of IT budgets should be allocated to remediating technical debt, ensuring the maintenance of evergreen IT capabilities; this is the sweet spot—both higher and lower allocations are not optimal—that balances debt reduction with future investments. Maintaining evergreen IT requires a commitment to continuous updates, upgrades and management of software, hardware and services. Programmatic version control systems can be used to update configuration settings for infrastructure following changes to the code. This method brings more automation, flexibility and integration capabilities to reduce future technical debt.

vival, and better, can help one check for cancer for those who do not display symptoms yet.

“Cancer, if undiagnosed or untreated, has the potential to grow and spread to distant organs. This, in turn, can result in symptoms and failure of the affected organ or organs,” said Dr. Zee.

contaminant aflatoxin, and biological carcinogens like infections from viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Dr. Zee also stated that hereditary cancers rarely occur, and that most cancers only arise as a result of lifestyle changes. He said that about one in five people develop cancer, and one in 10 people with cancer dies before they turn 75.

Understanding cancer risk factors can help individuals and public health organizations take steps to prevent these risks. Studies show that 30-50% of cancers are preventable by developing healthy lifestyle choices, avoiding risk factors, and enforcing evidencebased prevention strategies. Importance of early detection Early detection through screening can significantly improve treatment outcomes and increase chances of sur-

Types of screening tests include physical examinations and history, laboratory tests like blood tests, and imaging procedures. However, there are only cancers where screening can be possible and recommended like breast, cervical, colorectal, and prostate cancers. Dr. Zee emphasized that not all can have effective screening tests. In addition, screening can also help detect and remove abnormalities that can cause cancer if left untreated. For instance, if during colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer, polyps were detected, it can be removed immediately to prevent them from becoming cancerous.

Dr. Zee, an expert in general medical oncology and has a special interest in colorectal cancer, also emphasized that in East and Southeast Asian countries, researchers have observed a significant rise in colorectal cancer rates. Early detection, timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and regular follow-up care are essential for improving survival rates and quality of life.

“Early diagnosis, even before the onset of symptoms, is crucial in allowing doctors to deliver more effective treatment with potentially higher rates of cure. This underlines the importance of screening for colorectal cancer.” he remarked.

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Xiaomi’s latest earbuds flex endurance and comfort at an affordable price

Dr. Zee Ying Kiat, Senior Consultant of Medical Oncology at Parkway Cancer Center

How businesses can upskill their cybersecurity workforce

IN the digital era, the protection of any kind of information has become important, placing cybersecurity professionals at the forefront of safeguarding the information infrastructure of businesses.

The landscape of cybersecurity is evolving, presenting both promising career prospects and challenges for specialists in this field.

Ever growing demand for cybersecurity professionals

The need for cybersecurity professionals is truly soaring. According to a recent industry report, there is a significant shortage of qualified cybersecurity experts globally. This gap is driven by the rapid pace of digital transformation, the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberthreats, and the absence of a standardized approach to cybersecurity education across academic institutions.

In 2022-2023, global cybersecurity workforce grew up by almost 13%, but the talent gap is still wide and today there is an immense shortfall of nearly 4 million experts. It is revealed that 41% of InfoSec professionals say their cybersecurity teams are “somewhat” or “significantly understaffed”. Another group of respondents (about 30 % of cybersecurity specialists) admitted their organization is on average looking to fill more than 20 cyber security positions.

The cybersecurity talent shortage is complicated by other challenges, including rapid advancements in technologies and the need for experts to keep pace, the disparity in qualified cybersecurity personnel access among business of various sizes, also called “the Fortune 500 effect”, and not enough diversity in the industry. Additionally, cybercriminals are continually developing new methods to breach defenses, requiring cybersecurity professionals to stay updated with the latest threats and countermeasures. This dynamic environment demands constant learning and adaptation.

Cybersecurity education creating its own challenges

To find the root causes of the current cybersecurity talent shortage, it’s worth taking a closer look at the cybersecurity education, which introduces the majority of modern InfoSec experts to their professional path. The educational background of cybersecurity professionals is diverse if not surprising, with Kaspersky findings showing that more than three-quarters of those with two to five years’ experience did not study information technology or computer science at college or university at all and have evolved into their cybersecurity role. InfoSec experts admit that the academic education field lacks standardized cybersecurity programs that would correspond to the diversity of InfoSec roles, bringing more challenges for young specialists when they start their careers. Additionally, the academic field with its established

procedure for the creation and adoption of educational programs, has easy-toexplain difficulties with keeping up with the industry that has to deal with ever evolving cybersecurity risks.

But graduated specialists and newbies in the field need to have a whole blend of skills and knowledge, covering IT fundamentals like OSI model or peculiarities of various operating systems to basic programming skills, which are always handy in automating various cybersecurity tasks. This is not to mention more niche knowledge, inherent in information security, like cryptography or familiarity with inbuilt protection of various systems.

Beyond technical expertise, soft skills like strong problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills are essential. Cybersecurity professionals often need to explain complex issues to non-technical stakeholders, making the abil-

Canon’s top of the line EOS R system camera

CANON announced the EOS R1, a full-frame mirrorless camera and its first flagship EOS R system camera. With its powerful new image processing and autofocus systems, the new camera is setting new standards and redefining speed in the digital era.

“Canon’s top-of-the-line “1 series” professional cameras have supported professional users for over 50 years, evolving to stay at the forefront of users’ needs and technological advancements. The EOS R1 carries this legacy into a new era, empowering users to take the mastery of visual expression to a whole new level.” said Ichinomiya Takashi, Director of Regional ICB Sales & Marketing Division, Canon Singapore.

Top Notch Speed: Accelerated Capture Image Processing

The EOS R1 harnesses the power of a 24-megapixel back-illuminated (BSI) stacked CMOS sensor to elevate images to an impressive 96-megapixels with its unique InCamera Upscaling technology. The sensor’s improved light efficiency and faster readout lay the foundation for the rev-

SYDNEY—Canva, a world leader in visual communication with more than 190 million monthly active users, today announced plans to acquire Leonardo.AI. As one of Australia’s fastest-growing startups, and a leading generative AI content and research company, Leonardo.AI is empowering millions of people to bring their ideas to life through productionquality images and videos. The acquisition complements Canva’s offering and enhances the company’s vision to build a world-class suite of visual AI tools, marking this as an important milestone in its AI journey. As AI continues to shape the future of work and visual communication, the acquisition will accelerate Canva’s investment in continued research and development while bringing Leonardo’s cutting-edge foundational model to Canva’s community worldwide. From creating assets for marketing and advertising campaigns, to visualizing stunning interior concepts, refining mockups, and producing dynamic videos, Leonardo’s tech-

olutionary capabilities of the EOS R1. With the new Accelerated Capture image processing system, featuring the innovative DIGIC Accelerator alongside DIGIC X, processing speed and power are significantly amplified. Unprecedented levels of AF and subject tracking performance can be achieved through deep learning algorithms, where detailed scene analysis is enabled. With features such as In-Camera Upscaling and Neural Network Noise Reduction now executable in-camera, the EOS R1 supports fast-paced, time-sensitive workflows, ensuring the swift delivery of high-quality, publication-ready images to editors or press offices. Capture Decisive Moments: Smarter

Subject Detection and Tracking

The EOS R1 is Canon’s first camera to feature the next-generation Dual Pixel Intelligent AF system. This system leverages the Accelerated Capture image processing system’s powerful processing speed and power to achieve AF and subject detection performance that significantly surpasses that of the EOS R3.

ity to convey information clearly and concisely a valuable and trusted asset.

Interestingly, 63% of InfoSec specialists believe that soft and hard skills are equally important in determining whether a cybersecurity candidate is qualified for a job.

As the educational field is yet to offer comprehensive cybersecurity programs that would reflect the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity tasks, many cybersecurity professionals do not rely heavily on their academic training, preferring not to move forward of acquiring post-graduate degrees - more than half of modern cybersecurity professionals do not have a formal postgraduate or higher degree. Instead, they depend on practical experience, certifications, and continuous learning to stay relevant. Hands-on experience is crucial, as it provides realworld exposure to the challenges and complexities of cybersecurity.

One revolutionary new AF feature is the Action Priority AF mode, which detects crucial actions such as shooting, passing, and heading, specific to soccer, basketball, or volleyball. Using deep learning, details such as ball position, players’ joints, and the presence of multiple people will be analysed. Once such actions are detected, the AF frame automatically switches to the subjects performing these actions, capturing those split-second decisive moments that might be missed, especially during dynamic, fast-paced games.

Be it shooting event photos or videos, the Register People Priority feature will come in handy; the camera will prioritise up to 10 specific preregistered individuals and constantly focus on them, even when the subjects’ faces are side facing.

Users can also look forward to improved AF and subject tracking in the existing People, Animal, and Vehicle-priority modes, as the Dual Pixel Intelligent AF is aided by Cross-type AF, which improves the camera’s ability to detect small subjects and subjects affected by patterns and/or horizontal lines—such as players wearing horizontal stripes or when shooting from behind net or fence.

nology has been used to produce more than one billion images in the last 18 months.

For Leonardo.AI this is an opportunity to produce new levels of AI innovation while also growing the organisation’s scale. With Canva’s support, the company’s current trajectory

will be supercharged to build an even more creative-centric generative AI platform globally.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Leonardo.AI to Canva - two Australian companies joining forces to bring world-first breakthroughs in AI and creativity,” said Cameron Adams, co-founder and

Trend Micro to spotlight evolving tech at DECODE

THIS coming September 10, leading cybersecurity company Trend Micro Philippines is once again hosting its annual cybersecurity conference DECODE with the theme DECODE 2024: Fusion Forward. For this year’s conference, Trend Micro will highlight the pressing need to fuse together and integrate different technologies to produce holistic and multi-faceted solutions to cyberattacks and threats. Through the advanced and integrated use of cybersecurity fundamentals, there is greater potential for increased cyber protection against different types of threats.

“With the continuous advancements in AI and its integration into more systems and devices we use everyday, we at Trend Micro recognize the need to consistently be one step ahead of trends and cyber threats. Through rigorous research and upskilling, as well as through efforts such as DECODE, we aim to further reinforce the need for robust and resilient security to our customers and partner organizations, as well as to fellow cybersecurity professionals in the country.” shared Alma Saturnino-Alvarez, Threat Hunting Director of Trend Micro.

Given the various data breaches that have occurred in recent months as well as the rising use of Generative AI models, DECODE 2024 looks to equip attendees with the necessary skills and knowledge to better protect their respective organizations from vulnerabilities. Attendees can look forward to track sessions and panel discussions that focus on the fundamentals of cybersecurity such as risk management, data privacy, and cybercrime, as well as a new session on automotive security.

Invited speakers from Trend Micro, Interpol, Canadian law enforcement, as well as local experts will be present to share insights and best practices when it comes to the latest facets of cybersecurity and risk management, from both local and international perspectives. A special session called Get It Girl will also be held in the morning highlighting women in tech, as well as a VicOne demonstration on vehicle data ecosystem security.

Aside from the track sessions and panel discussions, DECODE 2024 will also feature activities such as a Capture the Flag and a Hands-on Lab that all attendees can join for a firsthand experience of Trend Micro’s training process. With all that DECODE 2024 has in store, attendees are sure to leave the conference with an abundance of new skills and insights from the day’s activities. Be part of Trend Micro’s mission to do good by participating in DECODE 2024: Fusion Forward on September 10, 2024, at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel.

Chief Product Officer of Canva. “This field is constantly evolving, and Leonardo’s technical leadership and community impact can’t be overstated. Bringing our worlds together will accelerate each of our teams’ work, taking us from strength to strength, and we can’t wait to get started.” World Leading Generative AI Capabilities

Founded in late 2022, Leonardo’s foundational model empowers millions of people to turn ideas into production-quality visual assets with unprecedented control, speed and style consistency. Creators can generate images in any chosen aesthetic in seconds with simple prompts, create videos, sketch with AI, and customtrain models with their own datasets.

Leonardo’s new foundational model, Phoenix, takes creator control to the next level, with unprecedented prompt adherence, coherent, accurate text in images and the ability to generate production-ready assets in one shot.

“Today marks the start of a new chapter which will accelerate the pace

we innovate at Leonardo.Ai,” said JJ Fiasson, Founder and CEO, Leonardo.AI. Joining the Canva family means we can invest more deeply in scaling our AI research efforts globally, and move even faster to deliver new features and functionality to creatives worldwide.”

In less than two years since launching, Leonardo.AI has amassed more than 19 million registered users and is used across a wide variety of industries including advertising, marketing, design, entertainment, architecture, fashion, ecommerce and education. The joint effort with Canva will produce new levels of AI technology to not only engage, but to also grow Leonardo’s fast growing user base.

From hobbyists to film directors, architects, and professional designers, Leonardo’s technology delivers advanced creative control that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in generative AI, while remaining intuitive and accessible. Its models can generate stunning images in styles ranging from strikingly realistic photos to character portraits, anime, painterly styles, and more, while its AI video generation tools can bring almost any concept to dynamic life.

The landscape of cybersecurity is evolving, presenting both promising career prospects and challenges for specialists in this field.

EOS R1

Company continues to accelerate investment and pace of development with Canva AI products now used more than 7 billion times

SHOWBIZ

Gwy Saludes’‘University Series’ gets fresh spark with new loveteam

VIVA Entertainment has officially introduced the new screen pairing of heartthrob Gab Lagman and showbiz newcomer Hyacinth Callado in the latest installment of Gwy Saludes’ “University Series.” Their onscreen chemistry was unveiled last week at the Viva Cafe during the launch event for Viva One’s Chasing in the Wild

The event brought together the love teams from the first two books: The Rain in España leads Marco Gallo and Heaven Peralejo (“Marven”) and Safe Skies, Archer’s Krissha Viaje, who, with Jerome Ponce, made up the “KrisshaRome” pair, giving support to “HyGab.”

In an interview with Manila Standard Entertainment, Hyacinth expressed her gratitude and excitement about working with Gab.

“One of the things I always say is that I’m very grateful because it’s my first love team. I’m glad that Gab is my partner because he helps and supports me a lot. We’ve already faced a couple of challenges, and I’m just thankful that he’s always there for me,” Hyacinth shared. “He’s

director with the ‘Univerkada’ in full force at the launch of ‘Chasing the Wild’

BROCKA X Bernal, a documentary on the life and work of Philippine National Artists for Film Lino Brocka and Ishmael Bernal, is set to be screened on Aug. 8 at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay. The film highlights the profound impact of the two legendary directors of Philippine cinema. It provides a comprehensive portrait of the iconic auteurs as street parliamentarians.

Their narratives battled political censorship, championed the rights of film workers, and demonstrated the power of artists in initiating social change.

The docu examines how the creative geniuses used Manila and its inhabitants as a milieu and character which greatly

very reassuring, and I feel safe.” Gab, on the other hand, had nothing but praise for his new co-star. “I love how she cares about the people around her, her co-workers. And I also love how determined she is, to the point that she’s too hard on herself.”

“I always tell her to be proud because she has already accomplished so much in her first year in showbiz and is already working on significant projects,” he noted.

Chasing in the Wild is part of the highly successful “University Series,” which currently has over 650 million reads on Wattpad. Gwy, a law student at the Ateneo de Manila University, said Chasing in the Wild is the third of six books. It tells the love story of the jock Sevi Camero, played by Gab, and the cheerleader Elyse Ledezma, played by Hyacinth. Director Thop Nazareno praised the onscreen chemistry between Hyacinth and Gab, saying, “It feels like they’ve known each other for a long time, even though it’s only been a few months. There’s already something there. Even before we started reading the script, it was already evident. That’s the natural chemistry that’s hard to find in other love teams.”

Chasing in the Wild explores the dynamic between Sevi, a simple and fun-loving engineering student, and Elyse, a rich management student. Their romance begins with playful banter and evolves into a fiveyear relationship filled with ups and downs. The 16-episode series also features Dominic Ochoa and Angelu de Leon as Elyse’s parents, Alfred and Adriana Erin Ledezma. Jairus Aquino plays Elyse’s half-brother Shan, while Wilbert Ross is Sevi’s best friend Arkin. PJ Abellana, Yumi Garcia, and Keann Johnson round out the cast.

Ahead of its August premiere, fans got an inside look at the preparations for the show in Let the Chase Begin, streaming now on Viva One. This special features exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage of Hyacinth’s cheer dance training, acting workshops, and pictorials. Chasing in the Wild premieres on Viva One on Aug. 16, with new episodes released every Friday.

Angeline

affected the lives of Filipinos living in the metropolis. It further explores their influences through their major works, which projected critical reflections of the urban experience at that time: Brocka’s Maynila, Sa Kuko ng Liwanag (1975) and Bernal’s Manila by Night (1980). A highlight is a series of intimate

interviews with colleagues-turned-friends who knew them well: actors Gina Alajar, Bembol Roco, and Cherie Gil , as well as directors Joey Reyes, Peque Gallaga, and Mel Chionglo Brocka X Bernal premieres will premiere as part of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2024 of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

The piece, which runs for 42 minutes, was co-directed by screenwriter, director, and Carlos Palanca and Gawad CCP Para sa Sining Awardee Clodualdo del Mundo Jr., and award-winning filmmaker and writer Ida Anita del Mundo

The film was produced by the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Center for Campus Art (CCA) under its director and curator Architect Gerry Torres, in conjunction with the exhibition Brocka, Bernal, and the City

OPM singer Angeline Quinto has released a new track, “Take It All,” for the recently concluded Korean drama series Begins ≠ Youth

This special rendition of the song, originally performed by South Korean artist JEMMA, is Angeline’s first release under Universal Records after leaving ABS-CBN’s Star Music. Her version of “Take It All” is recorded entirely in English. Begins ≠ Youth premiered in April and follows the journeys of seven boys navigating personal and familial challenges in Songju-si. The drama draws inspiration from the fictional narrative The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, which BTS members have been developing through their albums and videos since 2015. Earlier this year, Angeline also released the single “Salamat Ika’y Dumating” in April. In 2023, she released a series of singles including “Kumikinang,” “Miss Manila,” “Sana Ngayon Lang Ang Kahapon,” and “Pagbigyang Muli,” all under Star Music and ABS-CBN.

Angeline Quinto’s ‘Take It All’ is part of the o cial soundtrack of K-drama series ‘Begins ≠ Youth’

FRESH LOVETEAM.

‘Chasing in the Wild’ stars

Gab Lagman (left) and Hyacinth Callado

Gab Lagman (left) and Hyacinth Callado star as jock Sevi Camero and cheerleader Elyse Ledezma in ‘Chasing in the Wild’

The cast and

Ishmael Bernal’s 1980 lm ‘Manila by Night’ captures the societal issues faced by ordinary people that were prevalent at the time

Lino Brocka’s ‘Maynila, Sa Kuko ng Liwanag’ revolves around the story of a man looking for his lover in the harsh city of Manila

Mel Chionglo was a lmmaker who served as one of the founders of the Directors’ Guild of the Philippines

Peque Gallaga was the director behind the hit lm ‘Oro, Plata, Mata’

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2024

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

By Nickie Wang

TONI&GUY, a global leader in innovative hairdressing for 60 years and 22 years of excellence in the Philippines, recently hosted a world-class hair and fashion show at The Fifth in Rockwell, Makati City.

The event was attended by no other than the country’s A-listers including Heart Evangelista, Rajo Laurel, Teresa Herrera, Cristalle BeloPitt, Ces Drilon, Nicole Hernandez, Christian Bautista, Ciara Sotto, Miss Philippines Earth 2017 Karen Ibasco, actor Rocco Nacino and wife Melissa Gohing, TONI&GUY Philippines chairman Chot Reyes, and GILAS Pilipinas coach Tim Cone

“This has been a long and fulfilling personal journey that has been more than two decades in the making,” said Cherry Reyes, founder and managing director of TONI&GUY Philippines.

Under Reyes’ leadership, the salon has emerged as a top choice in the Philippines for cutting-edge hairstyles, vibrant hair color, and personalized hair care services, providing valuable insights for clients, hairdressers, and salon owners.

Reyes was inspired to bring TONI&GUY to the Philippines in 2002 to enhance the hairdressing industry, provide exceptional customer experiences, and offer Filipinos worldclass salon training.

During the grand event, attendees enjoyed a live hair and fashion exhibition where top hairdressers showcased their expertise. Leading the lineup were Cos Sakkas, TONI&GUY’s Global creative director, Bill Watson, educational director of TONI&GUY China and Southern Hemisphere, Francesco Fontana, international color educational director, and Efi Davies, international artistic director for TONI&GUY London.

Sakkas presented a four-part show concept. “Hair at TONI&GUY” celebrated the brand’s heritage with versatile hairstyles and innovative color techniques. “Editorial” highlighted TONI&GUY’s 20-year partnership with London Fashion Week. “Unfold” focused on creative cuts and colors for hairdressers. Finally, “Avant Garde” showcased imaginative hairstyles led by Efi Davies, the Avant Garde Hairdresser of the Year.

Fontana spoke about inclusivity through gender-fluid styles and diverse color palettes, while Watson emphasized teamwork, attention

TONI&GUY stages a hair and fashion show featuring the work of top hairdressers

TONI&GUY turns heads with 60 years of cutting-edge style

to detail, and a people-centric approach as keys to their success. Davies highlighted the transformative power of hairstyling, showing how different techniques can enhance facial features.

“Hair is supposed to live with you, within your lifestyle. We want the hair to be touchable, wearable, and for the wearer to flirt with their own hair,” said Sakkas.

Wella Philippines, Brazilian Blowout, and Label M Philippines sponsored the event.

IQOS Club members recently enjoyed an event focused on moving from traditional cigarettes to a smoke-free lifestyle.

The “IQOS Together X: A Celebration of Pleasure” event introduced members to sensory experiences and the newest tobacco technology. Taking place at BGC Immersive in Taguig City on July 27, the venue was turned into a captivating wonderland.

Guests had a multi-sensory experience featuring avant-garde LED displays, exquisite Japanese cuisine, refreshing mocktails, and captivating entertainment. On focus is the IQOS ILUMA, the latest innovation in heated tobacco technology.

The multi-sensorial journey not only awakened the guests’ senses but, more importantly, highlighted the positive experience of switching to IQOS after years of exposure to smoke.

It also marked IQOS Philippines’ fourth year of helping adult smokers switch to smoke-free choices.

Unlike cigarettes, IQOS heats tobacco instead of burning it, lessening the harmful chemicals compared to cigarette smoke. This innovative approach offers adult Filipino smokers a potentially less harmful alternative while delivering the satisfaction they crave.

While nicotine is not the primary cause of smoking-related diseases, the harmful chemicals produced by burning tobacco are. IQOS’s heated tobacco technology offers a smoke-free alternative, eliminating ash, smoke smell, and harmful byproducts.

Since its introduction to the Philippines four years ago, IQOS has gained significant popularity among adult smokers seeking an alternative to traditional cigarettes. The brand’s commitment to consumer satisfaction can be seen in the immersive “IQOS Together X” experience.

To further elevate the IQOS journey, the brand announced an exclusive promotion offering consumers the chance to win an all-expensespaid trip to the “IQOS Together X Sensorium” in Tokyo, Japan.

IQOS was launched a decade ago in Nagoya, Japan. Its storied presence in Japan, where heatnot-burn products now comprise 40 percent of the tobacco industry, has undoubtedly shaped the country’s smoke-free landscape.

This one-night-only event on Oct. 19 will be a sensory exploration featuring innovative collaborations, art, and interactive experiences.

IQOS remains dedicated to empowering adult

With smoking ailments claiming the lives of over 112,000

for innovative solutions is evident.

From left: Ces Drilon, Cristalle Belo-Pitt, and Nicole Hernandez

From left: Christian Bautista, Heart Evangelista, Rocco Nacino, and Melissa Gohing