21 Cavite, Bataan areas under state of calamity
US Coast Guard, NOAA teams assist in oil recovery
By Rex Espiritu and Dennis Abrina
AT LEAST 21 areas in the provinces of Bataan and Cavite have declared a state of calamity due to the impact of the oil spill caused by the sinking of the M/T Terranova, the Office of Civil Defense said Tuesday.
In its situation report, the
the
and capital
includes Bataan's 11
as well as Cavite's seven towns and two cities
Kawit, Noveleta, Rosario, Tanza, Naic, Maragondon, Ternate, Cavite City and Bacoor City.
Bataan Gov. Joet Garcia on Monday signed the resolution declaring a province-wide state of calamity, noting that the oil spills have affected 17,000 fishermen in the province.
MT Terra Nova, which was carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel. capsized off Limay, Bataan on July 25. Two days later, MTKR Jason Bradley, which was carrying about 5,500 liters of diesel, sank in the waters off
By Darwin G. Amojelar
represented a notable increase over the 3.7 percent recorded in June, but still within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) forecast of 4 to 4.8 percent, the agency noted.
“The increase was primarily driven by higher inflation in both food and non-food items, with notable upticks in housing prices, utilities, fuel, meat, corn, and fruits,” PSA said in a statement.
By Vito Barcelo and Maricel V. Cruz
THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has put into effect an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) against former presidential spokesman Harry Roque after he was linked to supposedly shady personalities involved with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in Bamban, Tarlac.
In a statement on Tuesday, the BI said that the order, signed by the Justice Secretary, also includes Porac POGO representative Cassandra Li Ong, former Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC) deputy director general Dennis Cunanan, and eight others. The DOJ issues ILBOs for prudence instructing immigration officers to double check if there are any pending
Sandiganbayan fines retired Army general P406.3m
By Maricel V. Cruz
By Riera U. Mallari
By Rex Espiritu, Rachelle Tonelada, and Vince Lopez
There has been no letup in China's efforts to improve its “militarized” facilities in the South China Sea, including areas that are within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), the Philippine Navy said on Tuesday as person for West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said up until 2013, China has reclaimed a total of 3,000 hectares of area in the SCS, including those within the Philippine EEZ.
“The major bases, Subi, Mischief, Johnson are already militarized. They have airstrips. They have harbors for warships. There are structures on land that we could only surmise are aircraft hangars. They have military-grade communications equipment,” he While there has been new Chinese reclamation in the
Manila Mayor, ex-Rep. Quimbo join Lakas
By Maricel V. Cruz
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez today welcomed Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah Honrado Lacuna-Pangan and former Marikina Rep. Romero Federico Quimbo to the fold of Lakas-CMD, the biggest political party in Congress and the country.
Romualdez, Lakas-CMD president, administered the oath of membership separately to Lacuna and Quimbo during simple rites held at the Social Hall of the Speaker’s Office in the House of
21 Cavite,...
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Mariveles town in Bataan. A third vessel, MV Mirola 1, ran aground near the shore of Mariveles.
Garcia said some 10,174 families in Limay and 4,822 families in Mariveles were affected.
Earlier reports also placed the estimated cost of damage in Cavite at P1 billion, with the province declaring a no-catch zone for fish and shellfish that has affected at least 31,000 fisherfolk.
Eight personnel from the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) arrived in Bataan on Tuesday to assist in oil spill recovery efforts. The teams will assist in recovery operations on the three maritime incidents.
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SCS since 2013, Trinidad said there were some recent improvements of Beijing's facilities.
“We monitored the presence of construction vehicles, heavy equipment vehicles, and the putting up of more structures on Subi Reef,” he said. "It is safe to assume that they have continued their maintenance and expansion little by little. As it is right now it is a fully functional military base with naval and airforce capabilities.”
Subi Reef, which is outside the country's EEZ, is occupied by China and is also being claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan.
“Is there a creeping invasion? Yes, and this has begun since 1992 since we started noticing Chinese markers in the expanse of the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea,” Trinidad said.
For his part, retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio said joint patrols with like-minded states prove to be the strongest enforcement of Philippine sovereignty and legal maritime claims in the West Philippine Sea.
“The PH should hold more joint sails with like-minded states in the
Obiena:...
The 29-year-old pole vaulter has almost seen and experienced it all in his lifetime. He began horribly as a hurdler, then saw his life turn around when he shifted to pole vaulting. He shattered his knee, played awfully a couple of times, but recovered nicely in as many, while smashing records along the way. He trained under a legend and soared to legit superstar status with endorsements of all kinds – from shoes to credit cards, drinking water to biscuits. At one point, he even fought an entire national sports association.
You’d see him screaming his heart out, hands raised in the air after a mighty leap into the sky. And then in another, crying on national TV for letting an entire nation down. That was the heartbreaking scene after Obiena improved on his Tokyo Olympics’ finish of 11th three years ago, but still fell off the podium in the 2024 Paris Olympics at the Stade de France on Monday.
And so Obiena is again at a crossroads, at least on his plans as an Olympic athlete.
“I think I've done a lot in this sport, but coming in fourth doesn't make it nice, but we'll see how it goes. It's not a no, but we'll see. I'm not saying no, I'm not saying yes. I'm not committing to anything, I'm not canceling anything. I need time to process a little bit of this and absorb everything,” he said. But as an ambassador of the sport? You can’t shake Obiena off that path.
Representatives Tuesday afternoon. In his message during the oath-taking ceremony, Romualdez highlighted the importance of the new members in bolstering the party’s support for the
Last week, the Philippine Coast Guard reported that oil recovery has begun for MTKR Jason Bradley and MV Mirola 1 with the deployment of oil spill booms and the use of water cannons to help disperse spilled oil.
On the other hand, MT Terra Nova has been secured with capping bags on all of its valves and high-level alarm pipes, in addition to two layers of oil spill booms placed around the sunken vessel.
Cavite Gov. Jonvic Remulla Jr. met with lawyers and representatives of MT Terra Nova on Monday for the established fact-finding committee, which will investigate whether the management of the sunken tanker has criminal liabilities.
Justice Assistant Secretary Jose Dominic Clavano IV said the meeting was also attended by representatives of the International Oil Pollution Compensation Fund (IOPC)
WPS. Everytime there is a joint sail, we and our like-minded friends rebut China's claim that the waters and resources within the ten-dash line are China's national territory,” Carpio told Manila Standard.
Japan and the Philippines recently concluded their first bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA), with Tokyo sending its Takanami-class destroyer JS Sazanami and Manila deploying its multi-role guided missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal.
The Philippines Coast Guard also conducted its first joint maritime drills with its Vietnamese counterparts.
“The bulk of those reclamations are on Philippine EEZ (Mischief Reef) and Philippine territorial sea (Subi Reef). Mischief Reef is the largest air and naval base of China in the Spratlys with a three-kilometer runway,” Carpio said.
“Subi Reef, which is also an air and naval base with a three-kilometer runway, is within the territorial sea of Pagasa, the largest island we occupy in the Spratlys. China has another huge air and naval base on Fiery Cross Reef. These air and naval bases will enforce China's ten-dash line as China's national boundary in the South China Sea,” he added.
“I'm sure I need to go back to the Philippines because we raised enough funds to donate one kit, one set of kit with goals and standards (for kids).
We're deciding where we're going to do it,” said Obiena, who is also planning to host a pole vault tournament in the Philippines on September 20.
“It's already on the calendar of World Athletics. Exhibition? It's not an exhibition. It's an official competition. It's a challenging level tour. The surface is going to be the same, what we use here in Paris,” added Obiena of the planned all-star tourney featuring the likes of Germany’s Oleg Zernikel, China’s Huang Bokai, and Greece’s Emmanouil Karalis, who edged him from the bronze in Paris.
“We'll try to invite everyone. Maybe Ersu (Sasma of Turkey). I'll try to get, you know, the Olympic finalists and have a really good competition in the Philippines,” said Obiena.
Asia’s no. 1 pole vaulter ended his talks with scribes with a heartfelt message to his supporters,
“Thank you so much for all the support and love you've given. And I think that makes the whole journey from Tokyo to today really worthwhile. I've been through a lot. Sometimes I feel I don't deserve this, especially today. In short, it's the reality of sport. Everyone who's cheering me on and giving me all these very positive emotions. I do apologize for coming short,” said Obiena.
“Such is life and such is sport.”
It is. And so cry it out, man. Rest, recover, and rise. You will be tossed around by life, but you will never be sunk.
Fluctuat nec mergitur.
programs and policies of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.
“We are honored to welcome Mayor Honey Lacuna and former Marikina Congressman Miro Quimbo into the Lakas-CMD family,” said Speaker Romualdez, leader of the 308-strong House of Representatives.
Romualdez expressed confidence Lacuna and Quimbo would provide significant contributions in upholding the principles and objectives of LakasCMD, reinforcing the party’s dedication to serving the Filipino people.
“Their leadership, experience, and commitment to serve our people
Inflation... From A1
While the July inflation figure was lower than the 4.7 percent recorded in the same period in July 2023, it’s the highest inflation rate since November 2023 at 4.1 percent.
“The latest inflation outturn is consistent with the BSP's latest assessment that inflation will temporarily settle above the target range in July 2024 due mainly to higher electricity rates and positive base effects but will likely follow a general downtrend beginning in August 2024,” the BSP said in a separate statement.
“The balance of risks to the inflation outlook has shifted to the downside for 2024 and 2025 due largely to the impact of the lower import tariff on rice under Executive Order (EO) 62 (Series of 2024),” the monetary regulator added.
Nonetheless, BSP said higher prices of food items other than rice, and higher transport and electricity charges continue to pose upside risks to inflation.
“The Monetary Board will consider the latest inflation outturn as well as the Q2 2024 national accounts in its assessment of the inflation outlook and the balance of risks in the August 2024 monetary policy meeting,” the BSP further added.
Meanwhile, The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said in a separate statement assured the public that the government is implementing crucial interventions to support the most vulnerable sectors and ensure food security amid the ongoing La Niña phenomenon and the higher inflation recorded in July 2024.
“The government is relentlessly working to address our nation’s most pressing concern of ensuring food security for every Filipino amid the faster rise in prices in July and the expected typhoons and rains due to the onset of La Niña this August,” NEDA Secretary
BI...
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arrest warrants against the subjects, if they committed any violation or infraction, and to monitor their itineraries and whereabouts should they attempt to leave the country, it was explained.
The ILBO states that, “considering the gravity of charges, subjects may attempt to place themselves beyond the reach of legal processes by fleeing the country, hence the BI is ordered to relay to the DOJ attempts to obtain information for the proper course of action to be undertaken by immigration officers.”
However, the BI clarified that the ILBO is only a “monitoring mechanism” and not a hold departure order.
As this developed, several members of the House of Representatives are pushing for the formation of a four-committee panel that would comprehensively look into the activities of POGOs and their connections with other illegal activities including alleged atrocities committed during the Duterte administration’s drug war.
On Monday, Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. urged the law-making body to combine separate ongoing inquiries by three committees.
Two other House members, Manila Rep. Joel Chua and Quezon City Rep. Patrick Michael Vargas, also filed Resolution 1843, proposing a fusion of the inquiries by the three committees: dangerous drugs, public order and safety, and human rights.
A fourth member, Gerville Luistro of Batangas, suggested during Monday’s plenary session that the Committee on Public Accounts be included in the proposed multi-committee investigating panel.
"The complex yet interrelated nature
greatly enhance our collective efforts to support the Agenda for Prosperity of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and his vision for ‘Bagong Pilipinas’,” Romualdez said. Lacuna became the first female Mayor of Manila after winning the 2022 mayoralty race. She started her political career as a member of the City Council in 2004 and was elected as Vice Mayor in 2016.
Quimbo served as the representative of Marikina’s 2nd congressional district from 2010 to 2019 and one of the Deputy Speakers of the House of Representatives of the Philippines
Arsenio M. Balisacan said. He added that the weather phenomenon is expected to persist until the first quarter of 2025. According to the PSA, food inflation rose to 6.7 percent in July 2024 from 6.5 percent in June 2024. This increase was attributed to higher inflation rates for meat (4.8 percent from 3.1 percent), corn (17.5 percent from 13.1 percent), fruits (8.4 percent from 5.6 percent), eggs and other dairy products (1.8 percent from 1.3 percent), and ready-made food products (6 percent from 5.9 percent. On the other hand, fish (-0.8 percent from -1.4 percent) and sugar (-3.4 percent from -3 percent) recorded softer deflation. Under non-food items, transportation inflation registered 3.6 percent in July 2024, up from 3.1 percent in June. This increase was driven by increasing global petroleum prices due to the unexpected large withdrawals of United States gasoline stocks, optimistic fuel demand forecasts, and the ongoing geopolitical tension in the Middle East.
For his part, Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto has assured the public that the inflation rate in July is likely a one-time uptick due to high base effects and is expected to temper and fall within target for the rest of the year as government interventions take full effect.
“Inflation rate is expected to stabilize and fall within target for the rest of the year as the impact of government interventions, particularly the reduced rice tariffs, will be more pronounced starting this August. Although, we might see slight increases in vegetable prices due to damages brought by Typhoon Carina in the agriculture sector,” he said in a statement.
Recto also noted that despite the overall increase in price pressures, rice inflation slowed down to 20.9 percent in July from 22.5 percent in June driven by a month-on-month reduction in the retail price of milled, well-milled, and special rice.
of the issues surrounding public order, dangerous drugs, and human rights violations demonstrates the unique benefits of a collaborative approach that only a joint investigation can provide.
(This) will enable us to conduct a more inclusive and thorough examination of these interlocking issues,” Gonzales said.
“It will allow us to invite resource persons who can provide valuable insights across multiple areas of concern. This coordinated effort will ensure that our findings are comprehensive and that our legislative recommendations are practical and encompassing,” he added.
Meanwhile, suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo may be stripped of her position after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) approved an investigative panel's recommendation to file a criminal complaint against her for allegedly misrepresenting herself during her 2021 candidacy in violation of the Omnibus Election.
In a viber message, Comelec chairman George Garcia said Guo may face a case of perjury or falsification of public documents because she lied when she signed a sworn document. He directed the commission’s Law Department “to file a motu proprio Complaint and conduct a Preliminary Investigation against Mayor Alice Leal Guo/Guo, Huang Ping y Lin for material misrepresentation in violation of Section 74 in relation to 262 of the Omnibus Election Code.
The poll body acted on the recommendation of its Law Department based on a fact-finding inquiry on Guo, the Comelec chairman explained.
Furthermore, Garcia said they also took into account the separate examinations conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the COMELEC’s Election Records and Statistics Department (ERSD) on the fingerprints of the suspended mayor and Chinese national Guo Hua Ping.
from 2016 to 2018. He was accompanied during the ceremony by his wife, incumbent Marikina 2nd District Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo.
Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo and 20 members of the City Council accompanied Lacuna to the oath-taking rites.
Likewise, Manila Reps. Irwin Tieng (5th District), Joel Chua (3rd District), Edward Maceda (4th District), Rolando “Rolan” Valeriano (2nd District), and Bienvenido Abante (6th District) joined Lacuna during the oath-taking rites, serving as witnesses to the event.
Solon asks PCSO to cover doctors’ fees of indigents
AKO Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co on Tuesday asked the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) to cover the professional fees of doctors treating indigent patients.
Co, chair of the House Committee on Appropriations, made the proposal during the budget briefing of PCSO, citing challenges in the implementation of the Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients Program (MAIPP) administered by the Department of Health (DOH).
“We put funds in every hospital, but the problem is in the hospitals, doctors don’t want their professional fees covered by MAIPP, they want cash and could not wait for 30 days,” he said. According to Co, while guarantee letters from the DOH cover the medical bills of poor patients under the MAIPP program, doctors often request their professional fees to be paid in cash, separate from the hospital bills. This then poses a problem for indigent patients in settling their total medical expenses.
“We’ll take care of the medical bill. Can the PCSO take care of the PF of the doctors?” he asked, as the PCSO also provides financial assistance to the needy for their medical and hospitalization expenses.
Co stressed the need for prompt action on this matter, especially since the ultimate goal of the MAIPP program is to deliver immediate and comprehensive medical care to those who need it most.
“Hope we can help each other, anyway GM and AGM earlier said that they are for charity,” Co said, referring to PCSO general manager Mel Robles and assistant general manager Lauro Patiag. Maricel V. Cruz
The antigraft court in a resolution dated July 30, but released only this week, said that while retired Ma. Gen. Carlos F. Garcia already served his principal jail sentence and was released in August 2023, he has yet to settle the fine imposed on him after he pleaded guilty to lesser offenses under a 2011 plea bargaining agreement.
Garcia was initially charged with plunder, which carries a punishment of life imprisonment or 20 to 40 years in jail. In its decision, the Sandiganbayan said since Garcia pleaded guilty to the crime of direct bribery, it is duty-bound to impose the penalty for facilitating money laundering which, in this case, is imprisonment and a fine that is "not less than three times the value of the gift." The anti-graft court said that the "gift" referred to in Article 210 of the Revised Penal Code is equivalent to the amount ceded to the government by way of compensation.
Garcia had earlier surrendered P135,433,387.84 million to the government as "the former military official’s compensation to the state for his criminal acts and an admission of civil liability arising from the commission of a crime."
“Thus, the imposition of a fine of P406,300,162.00 in Criminal Case 28107 was made in accordance with law and cannot be characterized as oppressive or unconstitutional,” the court added.
Garcia, in his defense, said making him pay such fines is "unfair" as all of his pay, allowances, and retirement benefits from his time in the Armed Forces of the Philippines were also forfeited as a result of a Court Martial case, and that his means to survive and earn money were lost.
NEWS IN BRIEF
MMDA encourages public to recycle, reuse
THE government is strongly encouraging people to reduce, reuse, and recycle to minimize waste and prevent waterway clogging in the metropolis.
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Romando Artes emphasized that effective waste management involves recycling and segregating waste, particularly biodegradable and non-biodegradable materials, to reduce accumulated waste and promote sustainability.
Artes said that reducing the amount of waste through recycling is essential since clogged waterways are a major cause of flooding in Metro Manila. “It will help if the accumulated waste is reduced through recycling,” he said.
Since July 25, the MMDA has cleared over 1,513 tons of garbage in the National Capital Region following the impact of Super Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon. Joel E. Zurbano
PNP: Student recruitment by communists continue
THE Philippine National Police (PNP)
revealed that 36 of 168 militant students were recruited by communist terrorist groups over the past 11 years, sparking renewed concerns about radicalization in educational institutions.
PNP Directorate for Operations Police Col. Randy Arceo shared this information during a Senate hearing, noting that the majority of the student recruits—123 in total—hailed from universities and colleges.
Of this figure, 34 were high school students and 11 were elementary students. The fatalities, Arceo said, were killed during military offensive operations. He added that at least 41 were arrested while 92 yielded to authorities.
The PNP also highlighted that 23 out of 102 monitored schools continue to witness recruitment activities by communist terrorist groups. Putian National High School in Cuartero, Capiz accounted for the highest number of students, who were recruited to join the Communist Party of the Philippines -New People’s Army (CPPNPA). Macon Ramos-Araneta Angeles inaugurates computer labs for schools ANGELES CITY—Mayor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. led the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the two state-of-the-art computer laboratories in public schools.
Among the schools that opened their new computer labs are the Angeles City National Trade School and the Angeles City National High School.
Funded by the city government, two more computer labs at Northville 15 Integrated School and Angeles City Senior High School are also set to open tomorrow, August 7, 2024.
The new four state-of-the-art computer laboratories are part of the ICT Modernization Program of Mayor Lazatin, one of his campaign promises, underscoring the importance of technology in providing quality education. Butch Gunio
Pinoys back fone ban in schools
By Macon Ramos-Araneta
ALMOST 8 out of 10 Filipinos support a ban on cell phones in schools, a Pulse Asia survey, commissioned by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, said.
Gatchalian said that the results of the survey show that Filipinos see the benefits of imposing a ban on cellphone use in schools, especially because distraction from mobile phones in schools is linked to poorer learner performance.
According to an analysis of the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) by the Senate Committee on Basic Education, eight out of
10 Filipino learners aged 15 reported being distracted in class by using their smartphones, while another eight out of ten reported being distracted by other students’ smartphone use.
Based on the results of the survey conducted from June 17 to June 24, 2024, Gatchalian said 76% of 1,200 adult respondents nationwide agree with having a cell phone ban inside schools.
He said 13% said they disagree, while 11% said they cannot say whether they agree or disagree.
“An overwhelming majority of Filipinos across all socioeconomic classes also support a cellphone ban in schools, with the strongest support from Class ABC (80%),” Gatchalian, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, said.
The survey said 76% of respondents from “class D” support a cellphone ban in schools, while 71% from “class E” support the proposal.
Across different locations in the country, a vast majority support banning cellphones in schools, with around
Cayetano worried on reliability of Philippine ID documents amid scams
By Macon Ramos-Araneta
SENATOR Alan Peter Cayetano on Tuesday expressed grave concerns about the reliability of Philippine identification documents amid reports of widespread counterfeiting.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of scam cases in the country, he announced his intention to file a resolution linking these incidents to other
fraudulent activities, such as SIM card registration scams.
He called on the Philippine National Police (PNP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to intensify their efforts in prosecuting violators.
The senator committed to supporting these agencies with the necessary resources to combat scams and the unau-
thorized use of government documents.
“I want to help you to find solutions. We have to equip you, but you need to tell us kung ano ang kailangan,” he said.
Cayetano emphasized the urgent need for a specialized unit to tackle the growing problem of scams in the country.
Cayetano cited the increasing “worldwide trend” of scamming, highlighting two primary motivations: personal gain or to defraud others.
He stressed the importance of convicting those involved in forgery, referencing the 2016 case where 177 Indonesians obtained fake Philippine passports.
The senator warned that these incidents undermine the credibility of government-issued documents.
He noted that stating that the international community “will not trust the Philippine passport” if such issues persist.
LTO wants expansion of service coverage nationwide
By Rio N. Araja
(LTO) is expanding the coverage of its mobile services nationwide upon the instruction of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to bring government services closer to the people.
LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II said the agency is now finalizing the strategic deployment of the electronic patrol services based on the data of what areas would need them.
“This is part of our initiative to make all LTO services more accessible to the community. Through our e-patrol services, people even in far-flung areas can conveniently access important LTO services,” he said.
“This is also part of our goal of promoting road safety involving over 20 million vehicles in the country,” he added.
eight out of 10 respondents in the National Capital Region (80%), Balance Luzon (79%), and Mindanao (81%) agreeing to the proposal. Six out of 10 (61%) of respondents from Visayas, on the other hand, agree with banning cell phones in schools. In June, Gatchalian filed the Electronic Gadget-Free Schools Act (Senate Bill No. 2706), which seeks to prohibit learners’ use of mobile devices and electronic gadgets from Kindergarten to senior high school within school premises during school hours. Due to this, he said they are continuously pushing for a ban of the use of cell phones in schools he added.
Solon bullish on medical marijuana okay
By Maricel V. Cruz
CAMARINES Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte expressed hopes that the 19th Congress--in its last regular session--will finally approve the medical cannabis bill which proposes to provide some relief to sufferers of severe ailments.
Villafuerte also said he is optimistic following the approval by the House of Representatives on third and final reading of House Bill 10439, or the Access to Medical Cannabis Act, delisting cannabidiol (CBD)—the non-addictive strain of cannabis sativa or the marijuana plant—from the list of prohibited dangerous drugs under Republic Act 9165 or the “Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.”
Villafuerte is a lead author of HB 10439, which was approved recently by the House of Representatives by a vote of 177-9 with nine abstentions.
The measure provides for the establishment of a Medical Cannabis Office (MDO) to regulate the supply, importation, production, and sale of CBD, along with its alternative use as a painkiller or relaxant for qualified patients with debilitating and non-debilitating medical conditions as classified by the Department of Health (DOH).
SELFIE WITH CALOY. Young athletes take a selfie next to an LED display of gymnast Carlos Yulo at the Philippine Sports Commission head office in Manila, days after Yulo won two gold in the floor exercise and vault in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Norman Cruz
Defense to buy P11.7-b body gear
By Rex Espiritu
THE Department of National Defense (DND) is allocating P11.7 billion to buy ballistic helmets and body armor for Army soldiers.
In a bid bulletin posted at its website, the DND said P2.875 billion has been allocated for the procurement of ballistic helmets.
The bulletin said bidding is open to
foreign and local manufacturers, subject to the revised implementing rules and regulations (IRRs) of Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act.
Amend EPIRA to address power outages—Zubiri
By Macon Ramos-Araneta
FORMER Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has asked the national government to come up with a tourism master plan and specific amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) to address the debilitating power woes undermining the country’s tourism industry.
Zubiri made the statement during his interpellation of Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel’s counterState of the Nation Address delivered recently at the plenary.
Pimentel aired concerns on the power issues plaguing tourist destinations such as Siargao, the so-called surfing capital of the Philippines.
“If there is a master plan in flood control, I hope there is also a master plan for tourism which will focus on these tourist destinations that have been bringing income to our country,” said Zubiri
He said a big part of this tourism master plan should be to ensure the availability of power sources for the continuous supply of electricity not only to residents but also to establishments in the tourism industry.
In discussing the electricity challenges faced by residents in tourist destinations, Zubiri recounted his recent visit to Siargao over the weekend with his family, saying the island is reeling from frequent power outages.
IN BRIEF
Brawner extols AFP sports teams’ triumphs
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday recognized the achievements of the AFP Lady Gunnar and AFP Cavaliers Basketball Team.
The AFP Lady Gunnar and AFP Cavaliers Basketball Teams won as champions during the UNTV Volleyball League Season 2 and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Cup 2024, respectively. Both teams earned cash prizes from their respective tournaments, a sum that will be donated to the V. Luna Medical Center and the AFP Educational Benefit System Office as part of their commitment to support community health and welfare. In his message, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. expressed cited the teams’ accomplishments and contribution to a worthy cause. He also encouraged them to continue their athletic prowess and hard work to make a positive impact in the community. Rex Espiritu
SSS covers 2k Batanes gov’t casual workers
Winning bidders are required to de -
liver the ballistic helmets within five years in batches of 23,000 per year.
In a separate bulletin, the DND said it is allocating P8.832 billion for the acquisition of 115,000 pieces of military body armor.
Like in the ballistic helmets, winning bidders are required to deliver the helmets within five years in batches of 23,000 annually.
The DND said the bidding will be
conducted through "open competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion specified under the rules of the procurement law. It said prospective bidders should have completed a similar project in the last five years.
The submission and opening of bids is scheduled on Aug. 20 at the DND building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
OVER 2,000 casual of the Batanes provincial government will have Social Security System (SSS) coverage under the KaSSSangga Collect Program.
SSS president and chief executive officer Rolando Macasaet and Batanes Gov. Marilou Cayco inked a memorandum of agreement paving the way for these workers to get social security coverage from the state pension fund.
“This only shows SSS is committed to its mandate of expanding social security protection and services to all working Filipinos up to the last-mile provinces in the Philippines like Batanes,” Macasaet said. Under the program, these employees would be registered as SSS self-employed members, while the provincial government will serve as the SSS collecting partner.
“The timely remittance of monthly premiums will ensure that JO workers are qualified to avail of SSS benefits and loan privileges in times of emergencies,” Macasaet said. Rio N. Araja
Police clearance center set up in Gen. Trias mall
THE General Trias police station, in collaboration with the local government unit, has set up a satellite office at a Robinson’s shopping mall to provide easy access for city residents needing police clearance.
The city government provided three complete sets of computers with printers to be used in the issuance of police clearances.
Mayor Luis Ferrer IV also shoulders the P180-application fee for the first 51 applicants on the first day of the facility.
Ferrer also said the city government will provide six brand new cars for the local police force. Dennis Abrina
Solon cites gov’t need to address OFWs’ mental health problems
By Maricel V. Cruz
A PARTY-list lawmaker has cited the need to give urgent attention to the mental health challenges faced by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) culled from her talks with the migrant workers during her recent visit to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore,
Taiwan, and South Korea.
Rep. Marissa Magsino of OFW party-list group in a privilege speech said through these encounters, she witnessed first-hand the struggles that OFWs endure and how these impact their mental well-being.” Magsino emphasized the prevalence of conditions such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress among the OFWs.
She said the available literature on the psychosocial distresses of Filipino migrant workers, particularly the study conducted by Dr. Veronica Ramirez, as supported by the University of Asia and the Pacific, the Department of Science and Technology, and the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development, indicate the existence of signif-
icant mental health problems among the OFWs, regardless of the host country. She said the common challenges of labor migration are worsened by various factors such as discrimination, poor working conditions, and separation from the family. She added that seafarers are particularly vulnerable due to prolonged isolation at sea.
By Joel E. Zurbano
PASSENGERS at the Iloilo Airport can now enjoy a more comfortable experience with the installation of three new chillers which were completed ahead of the September replacement deadline.
Karen Villanda, information officer of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines CAAP), said the new chillers, worth P37.5 million, arrived on July 16 and were fully operational by July 30. To ensure smooth operation, Hitachi Philippines and True-Temp Corp provided com-
prehensive training for the CAAP personnel, covering operational procedures and basic troubleshooting.
“This proactive approach guarantees that CAAP personnel are well-equipped to maintain the new equipment effectively,” said Villanda. Airport now has four new chillers, including one that arrived in June 2023. These new units replaced four of the five old chillers, with one of the old chillers being retained as a backup for rotational use. The upgrade enhances the airport's cooling capacity and ensures continued operational efficiency. Iloilo Airport acquires 3 new chillers
HOUSE PRESSER. Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. David Suarez answer questions from the media during the press conference and media launch of ‘Young
Guns’ on the Movie Television Program at the Romualdez hall in the House of Representative. Also in photo are 1Rider party-list Rep. Ramon Rodrigo Gutierrez, Sorsogon Rep. Marie Bernadette Escudero, Lanao Del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, PBS party-list Rep. Margarita Nograles, La Union Rep. Paolo Ortiga, and Manila Rep. Ernesto Dionisio Jr. Ver Noveno
CLAMOR FOR HIGHER PAY. Health workers from various public hospitals in Metro Manila troop to the Department of Budget and Management to oppose an executive order on pay hike which they called “stingy, unjust, and insulting to public health workers and other government employees who have been rendering their services wholeheartedly and tirelessly.” They group also seeks the immediate release of their ‘long overdue’ performance-based bonus from 2021 up to 2023. Danny Pata
OPINION
About Town
Ernesto M. Hilario
Volte-face on ICC probe
YOU can’t get any clearer than this.
We’re talking about the latest development on the issue of whether the Philippine government will insist on its earlier stand that it will not allow the International Criminal Court to investigate the war on illegal drugs of the Rodrigo Duterte administration.
That development, which comes as a pleasant surprise for those avidly watching how the Philippine government appears to have flipped-flopped on the issue and finally executed a 180-degree turn on its earlier position, is the recent statement of Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra the Marcos Jr. administration would not stand in the way of the ICC prosecutor’s investigation of the Duterte administration’s bloody drug war from the 2016 to 2019 period.
What Guevarra actually said was this: “The Philippines has no legal duty to lend any assistance to the ICC prosecutor in conducting his investigation. But the Philippine government cannot stop him from proceeding any way he wants.”
No doubt, the Solicitor General’s latest pronouncement is likely to send shivers down the spines of those suspected of having a big role in implementing Duterte’s ‘kill-kill-kill’ directive to the Philippine National Police starting from his assumption to office in July 2016 until 2019 and even up to mid-2022.
Another recent development here is the disclosure by former Sen. Antonio Trillanes of an ICC document naming two former police chiefs and three other police officials as main suspects along with Rodrigo Duterte in the bloody war on drugs.
The PNP officially claims only more than 6,000 alleged drug suspects died when they chose to fight it out with police who wanted to arrest them (‘nanlaban’), but human rights groups here and abroad believe between 20,000 and 30,000 were murdered during the bloody campaign to cleanse the country of alleged drug traffickers and users.
In short, there’s enough evidence to prove the Rodrigo Duterte administration should be charged with crimes against humanity according to the ICC.
Another more recent development is the statement of Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla his agency will find it difficult to ignore an arrest order by the ICC against Duterte et al. if finally issued.
The DOJ, he said, cannot ignore an Interpol alert for the arrest of a suspected fugitive and does what it needs to do as part of the country’s treaty obligation.
These developments run in stark con-
trast to statements of President Marcos Jr. in January this year his administration would not lift a finger to aid the ICC probe into the drug war, since the tribunal’s action was a “threat” to the country’s sovereignty.
He also said in April the Philippines would not hand Duterte over to the ICC.
And they also indicate another departure from the previous government position that it will not accede or cooperate with any ICC investigation of the war on drugs as the Philippines has a working justice system.
It’s only a matter of time before the ICC finally issues an arrest warrant for Duterte et al. and make them accountable for mass murder
But this argument flies in the face of the glaring reality only a handful of police officers have been convicted by our courts for grave abuses in the war on drugs.
The government’s earlier refusal to be covered by the ICC’s jurisdiction was based on its insistence the Philippines has a “robust and functional justice system capable of addressing internal issues without external interference.”
But this claim has been disputed by the findings of the advocacy group Initiatives for Dialogue and Empowerment through Alternative Legal Services (IDEALS) Inc., which said 95 percent, or 92 out of 97 of the alleged extrajudicial killings it examined, were either never investigated or were not followed up after the routine initial inquiries by authoritiesTop of Form.
Their conclusion based on interviews with the families of the victims of Duterte’s war on drugs: there are no genuine investigations, completed or ongoing, from the Philippine government and its agents.
What all this means is that it’s only a matter of time before the ICC finally issues an arrest warrant for Duterte et al. and make them accountable for mass murder.
And the question is: When will the ICC arrest warrant be finally issued?
Hearing to probe Alaska Airlines emergency on Boeing jet
NEW YORK – US investigators will open Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) a two-day hearing into a near-catastrophic January incident on a Boeing 737 MAX operated by Alaska Airlines that required an emergency landing.
Video of the episode showed oxygen masks hanging in front of a gaping airplane space from a panel that blew out shortly after takeoff, leaving passengers exposed to open air at an altitude of about 16,000 feet. The hearing in Washington aims “to determine the facts, circumstances, and probable cause of the transportation accident... and to make recommendations to improve transportation safety,” said the National Transportation Safety Board, which is overseeing the probe.
The plane soon went back to Portland where it safely landed, although there were eight minor injuries.
The NTSB immediately launched a probe and after a month said four bolts securing the panel were missing, according to preliminary findings released Feb. 6.
The agency has collected written documents and photos showing Boeing employees removed four bolts from these locations during an inspection at the Renton plant in Washington state prior to delivery of the aircraft last October.
Over the course of two day-long sessions in Washington, the NTSB will hear from about 15 witnesses.
Speakers include Elizabeth Lund, senior vice president for quality at Boeing, among other officials at the company, as well as officials from key supplier Spirit AeroSystems, regulator Federal Aviation Administration and the machinists union. The witness list does not include Alaska Airlines.
Lund came under fire from the NTSB after providing a detailed summary of the incident in June to journalists touring the company’s Renton plant.
Boeing staff identified five “nonconforming” rivets in the fuselage after the arrived in Renton, but the issue “did not create a safety hazard,” Lund told reporters.
The hearing comes as Boeing faces heavy scrutiny from regulators following the January incident and following congressional testimony from whistle blowers who say the company punishes workers who raise safety issues
But when the fuselage panel, known as the door plug, was removed to replace the rivets, Boeing staff failed to file the documentation to make the change on the door plug, Lund said.
“We believe that plug was opened without the correct paperwork,” Lund told reporters. “There was a non-compliance to our processes at that point.”
Watching closely
PD 1183 as amended.
MANY are keeping an eye on the announced bill to be filed this week by Senator Raffy Tulfo, chair of the committee on public services, proposing to abolish travel tax imposed by law on economy class Filipino passengers leaving for abroad.
There is clear-sightedness in what the 64-year-old Tulfo said that imposing additional costs on economy class passengers traveling on a budget is a violation of their right.
He stressed passengers in first and business class will still pay the so-called luxury tax.
The Travel tax, under Republic Act 6141 approved on Nov. 4, 1970, and Presidential Decree 1183, signed on Aug. 21, 1977, is a levy imposed by the government on individuals irrespective of the place where the air ticket is issued and form of payment, as provided for by
The Travel tax under the Schedule shall not exceed the equivalent of 15 per cent of the fare involved but in no case shall the tax be less than P2,000 for those traveling under first class passage.
There is clearsightedness in what Tulfo said that imposing additional costs on economy class passengers traveling on a budget is a violation of their right
The following individuals traveling abroad are required to pay travel tax: Filipino citizens, taxable foreign passport holders, and non-immigrant foreign passport holders who have stayed in the Philippines for more than one year are eligible to pay.
We find clear responsiveness in what Tulfo said that imposing a travel tax on outbound Philippine passport holders could be a violation of their Constitu-
Citizen Barok Louis ‘Barok’ Biraogo
IN A region fraught with tension and historical grievances, the Philippines’ untroubled rotation and reprovisioning (RoRe) mission to the Second Thomas Shoal marks a significant yet precarious step toward stability.
The recent operation, under a new provisional agreement with China, transpired without incident, a rarity in the contested waters.
This development demands a nuanced examination of its implications and the historical context that shaped this moment.
Storm before the calm
The Second Thomas Shoal (Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines and Ren’ai Jiao in China), has long been a flashpoint in the South China Sea.
The Philippines grounded the BRP Sierra Madre, a World War II-era ship, on the shoal in 1999, transforming it into a military outpost to assert its claims.
This action directly responded to China’s growing presence, which Manila and other Southeast Asian nations view as aggressive and expansionist.
Tensions escalated over the years, with confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels.
The situation reached a boiling point in June 2024, when a resupply mission led to violent clashes and injuries among Filipino sailors.
This incident underscored the volatility of the dispute and the urgent need for diplomatic resolution.
The latest resupply mission’s success represents a promising development in the fraught Manila-Beijing relations.
Reasons this event is beneficial:
Diplomacy Over Conflict: The peaceful resupply mission demonstrates the power of diplomacy over military confrontation. Examples, like the Camp David Accords or the Good Friday Agreement, show sustained dialogue can resolve even the most intractable conflicts.
Regional Stability: A reduction in hostilities contributes to broader regional stability. The South China Sea is a critical maritime route, and peaceful operations enhance security for all nations relying on these waters.
Economic Benefits: Stability can lead to economic benefits, encouraging invest-
She also said Boeing was focused on closing a “gap” over the lack of documentation and that determining who did the work “is the responsibility of the NTSB and that investigation is still going on.”
Boeing sanctioned
After Lund’s comments were published in June, the NTSB announced it was sanctioning the company for sharing details about an ongoing probe that were not supposed to be discussed publicly.
Lund “released non-public investigative information and made unsubstantiated speculations about possible causes of the
tional right to travel.
He articulated Article III, Section 6 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution which recognizes the Filipino people’s right to travel, saying this “shall not be impaired except in the interest of national security, public safety, or public health, as may be provided by law.”
Tulfo then called for the repeal of PD 1183 which imposes a travel tax of P1,250 on economy class passengers. Under PD 1183, overseas Filipino workers, infants, government officials and corporations on official travel are exempt from this tax.
We endorse Tulfo’s argument that “imposing additional costs on economy class passengers, who are traveling on a budget with funds they have saved for a long time, is a violation of their Constitutional right to travel.,”
If this is a major legislation, a companion or identical bill may be filed in the House of representatives aimed at speeding up the legislative process by encouraging both chambers to consider the measure simultaneously, with the bill becoming a law through a multistep process.
When passed by both chambers in identical form and signed by the President or repassed by Congress over a presidential veto, the proposed bill becomes a law.
Manila’s peaceful South China Sea RoRe mission
ment and cooperation in the region. The Philippines, for example, could see increased foreign investment if the threat of conflict diminishes.
Humanitarian Aspect: Ensuring the resupply of troops stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre underlines a commitment to the well-being of military personnel, framing the mission as a humanitarian effort rather than a provocative act.
Skeptics’ perspective
Despite the positive outlook, legitimate concerns must be addressed:
Beijing’s Narrative Control: Critics warn China may use this event to manipulate the narrative, portraying itself as the dominant power in the region. Beijing’s pattern of behavior, marked by inconsistency and strategic ambiguity, fuels these fears.
The untroubled resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal is a beacon of hope in the turbulent waters of the South China Sea
Fragile Peace: The provisional nature of the agreement suggests the peace is tentative. Historical precedents, like the Munich Agreement of 1938, remind us temporary accords can lead to future conflicts.
National Sovereignty: There is a risk Manila’s engagement with Beijing could be perceived as a compromise on its sovereign claims, potentially weakening its position.
Disinformation Risks: Beijing’s track record of disinformation and propaganda raises concerns about its commitment to the agreement. Effective monitoring and verification mechanisms are crucial.
The successful resupply mission marks a diplomatic win for the Philippines, showcasing its willingness to engage in dialogue while maintaining a firm stance on its territorial claims. However, concerns raised by critics cannot be dismissed lightly.
Jan. 5 door-plug blowout, which is directly at issue in the ongoing investigation,” the NTSB said in a June 27 letter to Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun.
Some of the information “was either inaccurate or unknown to the NTSB,” the letter added.
“This disregard of the federal regulations and rules governing NTSB investigations cannot be tolerated.”
As a result, the NTSB said it is blocking Boeing from reviewing information gathered in its investigation and will not permit the company to ask questions of
The Philippines must navigate this fragile peace with vigilance, ensuring its sovereignty and regional stability are not compromised.
Recommendations
For Manila: Maintain Vigilance: Continuous monitoring of China’s actions and adherence to the agreement is essential. Any deviations should be promptly addressed through diplomatic channels.
Strengthen Alliances: Reinforcing alliances with other Southeast Asian nations and external powers like the United States can provide a counterbalance to China’s influence.
Transparent Communication: Develop a clear and strong narrative to explain the benefits of the agreement to the public and international community, emphasizing that diplomatic engagement does not equate to compromising sovereignty.
Explore Confidence-Building Measures: Consider framing future resupply missions as humanitarian efforts, possibly involving civilian agencies like the Philippine Coast Guard to reduce military tensions.
For Beijing: Commit to Transparency: Demonstrate sincerity in the agreement by avoiding provocative statements and actions that could undermine the fragile peace.
Engage in Consistent Diplomacy: Build trust through consistent and transparent diplomatic engagements, showing a genuine commitment to regional stability.
Promote Mutual Benefits: Highlight the mutual economic and security benefits of reduced tensions in the South China Sea, fostering a cooperative rather than adversarial relationship. The untroubled resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal is a beacon of hope in the turbulent waters of the South China Sea.
However, this fragile peace requires constant vigilance and proactive diplomacy.
By carefully navigating this topography, both countries have an opportunity to transform a historically contentious area into a model of peaceful coexistence. The ball is now in Beijing’s court to prove its commitment to lasting peace and stability in the region.
other witnesses at the hearing. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy in March had also sharply criticized Boeing’s handling of the probe, telling a congressional hearing the company was dragging its feet in providing key documentation and witnesses involved in working on the plane. Tuesday’s hearing comes as Boeing faces heavy scrutiny from regulators following the January incident and following congressional testimony from whistle blowers who say the company punishes workers who raise safety issues while moving to cover up problems. AFP
US in ‘around-the-clock’ push to avoid all-out Mideast war; Biden in crisis talks
WASHINGTON, DC
– US Presi-
dent Joe Biden held crisis talks on
Monday (Tuesday Manila time) on a potential Iranian counterattack on Israel as his administration said it was working around the clock to avoid all-out war in the Middle East.
Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaged in frantic diplomacy to try to ease tensions sparked by a suspected Israeli attack that killed Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.
The president called King Abdullah II of Jordan, which helped down Iranian drones and missiles in an earlier showdown in April, while Blinken called top officials in Qatar and Egypt, the key intermediaries seeking a ceasefire in the 10-month Israel-Hamas war.
“We are engaged in intense diplomacy, pretty much around the clock, with a very simple message -- all parties must refrain from escalation,”
Blinken said after joining other top officials in a White House meeting.
“It’s also critical that we break this cycle by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza,” said Blinken, who has also
spoken since Sunday with G7 counterparts and Iraq’s prime minister.
On Monday, multiple US personnel were injured in a rocket attack on a base in Iraq, adding to the already heightened regional tensions.
Biden had been hoping in his final months in office to end the Gaza war and work on clinching a landmark deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
Instead, he has boosted the US military presence in the Middle East in a show of strength to Iran.
After staunchly backing Israel’s war against Hamas, Biden has made clear his frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the killing of Haniyeh, who was involved in the ceasefire negotiations.
Blinken, who has warned that Iran could strike soon, made a new pitch for Biden’s ceasefire plan that would freeze fighting in Gaza and return hostages seized in the October 7 megaattack on Israel by Hamas. AFP
Bangladesh army in control after PM Hasina, 76, flees
DHAKA – Bangladesh’s military was in control of the country on Tuesday after mass protests forced longtime ruler Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee.
Hasina, 76, had been in power since 2009 but was accused of rigging elections in January and then watched millions of people take to the streets over the past month demanding she step down.
Hundreds of people died as security forces sought to quell the unrest, but the protests grew and Hasina finally fled Bangladesh aboard a helicopter on Monday as the military turned against her.
Bangladesh army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced Monday afternoon on state television that Hasina had resigned and the military would form a caretaker government.
“The country has suffered a lot, the economy has been hit, many people have been killed -- it is time to stop the violence,” said Waker, shortly after jubilant crowds stormed and looted Hasina’s official residence.
Millions of Bangladeshis flooded the streets of Dhaka after Waker’s announcement.
“I feel so happy that our country has been liberated,” said Sazid Ahnaf, 21, comparing the events to the independence war that split the nation from Pakistan more than five de-
cades ago.
“We have been freed from a dictatorship. It’s a Bengal uprising, what we saw in 1971, and now seeing in 2024.”
But there were also scenes of chaos and anger, with police reporting at least 66 people killed on Monday as mobs launched revenge attacks on Hasina’s allies.
Protesters stormed parliament and torched TV stations, while some smashed statues of Hasina’s father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s independence hero.
Others set a museum dedicated to the former leader on fire, flames licking at portraits in destruction barely thinkable just hours before, when Hasina had the loyalty of the security forces under her autocratic grip.
“The time has come to make them accountable for torture,” said protester Kaza Ahmed. “Sheikh Hasina is responsible for murder.”
Offices of Hasina’s Awami League across the country were torched and looted, eyewitnesses told AFP.
The unrest began last month in the form of protests against civil service job quotas and then escalated into wider calls for Hasina to stand down.
Her government was accused by rights groups of misusing state institutions to entrench its hold on power and stamp out dissent, including through the extrajudicial killing of opposition activists.
At least 366 people died in the unrest that began in early July, according to an AFP tally based on police, government officials and doctors at hospitals. AFP
Venezuela opposition urges army to side with ‘people,’ criminal probe launched
CARACAS – Venezuela’s opposition leaders on Monday (Tuesday Manila time) appealed to the army, the main pillar of support for President Nicolas Maduro, to “take the side of the people” after his disputed reelection -- a call swiftly met with a criminal probe.
Prosecutors said they had opened an investigation targeting opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia for announcing an election winner other than Maduro, instigating disobedience and insurrection.
While under public pressure to release detailed, precinct-level records backing up its assertion that Maduro won, the National Electoral Council said Monday it had presented all these records to the Supreme Court for certification, as requested by Maduro -- but not publicly.
The opposition insists Gonzalez Urrutia was the rightful victor of the July 28 presidential election, which has plunged the oil-rich nation into political crisis.
Multiple countries, including the United States and Argentina, have recognized Gonzalez Urrutia as the winner, while others, such as the European Union, have stopped short of doing so while calling for full publication of voting records.
The contested election sparked protests last week that left at least 11 civilians dead, according to rights groups.
“We appeal to the conscience of soldiers and police officers to take the side of the people and their own families,” the opposition said in a statement in which they offered “guarantees to those who fulfill their constitutional duty” in a possible “new government.” AFP
IN BRIEF
Harris to name running mate
WASHINGTON, DC – Kamala Harris was set to announce her running mate Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time) before the pair head out on a five-day swing through America’s hottest battleground states, just three months out from the presidential election.
The US vice president’s campaign has come out of the blocks at a lightning pace since she replaced Joe Biden at the top of the Democratic ticket, smashing fundraising records and wiping out the leads built up by Republican rival Donald Trump. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democratic rising star, is considered the favorite to join Harris as her vice-presidential pick, ahead of several other state governors. AFP
‘X’s AI chatbot spread poll misinformation’
WASHINGTON, DC – Five US states sent an open letter Monday (Tuesday Manila time) to Elon Musk, urging him to fix his social media platform X’s AI chatbot after it shared misinformation about the upcoming presidential election. The letter comes as researchers express concern the influential site, formerly named Twitter, is a hotbed of political misinformation, while Musk -- who has endorsed Donald Trump -- appears to be swaying voters ahead of the November election by spreading falsehoods on his personal account, which has nearly 193 million followers. Hours after President Joe Biden stepped down from the presidential race last month and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee, the chatbot called Grok churned out false information about ballot deadlines, which was amplified by other platforms. AFP
CHAOS AND ANGER. Anti-government protestors march towards Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s palace as army personnel (center) stand guard in Shahbag area, near Dhaka university in Dhaka. Protests in Bangladesh that began
Kankaloo Auto & Bike Show slated in October
THE Kankaloo Auto & Bike Show 2024 is set to make history as Caloocan City’s premier automotive and lifestyle event. Taking place on October 26 at the New Caloocan City Hall, 9th St., from 7th Ave. to 10th Ave., this groundbreaking show aims to rejuvenate the local motoring scene by providing a dynamic platform that highlights the latest innovations in automobiles and motorcycles, while also fostering community engagement. By spotlighting local businesses, the event seeks to boost the local economy, offering enterprises the chance to connect with a wider audience and form new partnerships.
In addition, the show will feature performances and exhibitions from local talents, giving them a prestigious stage to showcase their skills and creativity. This enhances the cultural fabric of the community and promotes a sense of pride and unity among residents.
The Kankaloo Auto & Bike Show 2024 is also dedicated to promoting local tourism by attracting visitors from neighboring cities and beyond, showcasing Caloocan City’s rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere. The event’s diverse program will include live music, entertainment, food fairs, and artisanal markets, ensuring there is something for everyone.
A key focus of the event is road safety. Through educational workshops, interactive demonstrations, and collaborations with safety organizations, the show aims to instill the principles of responsible and defensive driving among all road users. The event aims to create a safer motoring environment and reduce road accidents by emphasizing road safety.
With its multifaceted approach, the Kankaloo Auto & Bike Show 2024 promises to be a transformative event that celebrates automotive excellence, strengthens community ties, supports local businesses, nurtures talent, and champions road safety.
It is poised to become a defining feature of Caloocan City’s event calendar, attracting enthusiasts and families for an unforgettable experience.
The organizers extend their gratitude to the following sponsors: Motul by InfiniteServ, RMU Underchassis Shop, Grace Collection PH, Laundry Barn, Cheng Dynasty, Hella, Afters Sweets & Pastries, P&S Detailing Chemicals, Lokal Recipe, KingWrench Auto Care Services, A1 Protein, Checkered Flag Professional Auto Detailer & Carwash, Mrs. Universe Philippines Foundation - Valenzuela City, Bake & Batter Cakes & Pastries, JSK Custom Paint and Auto Works, Decal Republic, Allure Staycation at The Silk, Slimmers World SM North EDSA, Slimmers World Elite Face & Skin Clinic North EDSA, Slimmers World Elite Face & Skin SM North Towers, and Slimmers World Elite SM North Towers. Special thanks to Power Wheels Magazine, Motorsiklo News, MNews Experience, Lifestyle on Wheels, and Manila Standard.
Local talents dominate JPGT Mindanao Series 3 opener
Zamboanga stuns Binan; Nueva Ecija, Negros win
ZAMBOANGA and Nueva Ecija posted contrasting victories on Monday in the MPBL (Maharlike PIlipinas Basketball League) Sixth Season at the Alonte Sports Arena in Binan, Laguna.
The Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards routed the Caloocan Batang Kankaloo, 86-66, while the Zamboanga Master Sardines pulled off an 82-81 stunner over Binan Tatak Gel in the round-robin elimination phase of the 29-team tournament.
Chito Jaime pierced the loose Binan defense and drove in for the marginal basket with 1.2 seconds left, enabling Zamboanga to complete its climb from a 10-point hole, 69-79, in the last two minutes and tally its 16th win against 4 losses.
Renzo Subido and Jaycee Marcelino presided over the Zamboanguenos’ comeback from a 61-74 deficit midway through the fourth quarter, with Subido drilling in back-to-back triples in a 9-1
run that pushed them to within 78-80, only 12.7 seconds remaining.
Binan’s Nino Canaleta then got fouled on a double-team but drew an unsportsmanlike foul while swinging his elbow to protect the ball.
Canaleta split his two free throws while Subido made both for an 80-81 count with 5.1 seconds left.
Fielded back by Zamboanga Coach Louie Alas, Jaime then feinted left against Canaleta before turning right for the open layup that pulled Binan down to 11-8.
Marcelino wound up with 33 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists to earn the Daily Fantasy best honors over Subido, who finished with 17 points, including 4 triples, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Binan got 20 points and 10 rebounds, plus 4 assists from Kenny Roger Rocacurva, 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists from Pamboy Raymundo, and 11 points plus 6 rebounds from Canaleta.
Sonak’s Molten, SBP join hands for Pambansang Tatluhan
SONAK, the official distributor of Molten in the Philippines, and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced a landmark partnership for the SBP 3×3 Pambansang Tatluhan 2024, further solidifying their commitment to the growth and development of basketball in the Philippines. Co-presented by Molten Philippines, the SBP 3×3 Pambansang Tatluhan is a nationwide 3×3 basketball tournament which is a grassroots program designed to develop young Filipino basketball events and aimed at promoting the sport and discovering new talent across the country. Molten Philippines, a leading global provider of sports equipment, will supply the official balls and other sports equipment for the tournament, including the innovative Molten B+ game unit. The Molten B+ is a new, movable, and easy-to-setup basketball court that will bring the excitement of 3×3 basketball which will be installed at SM North EDSA during the final games, ensuring a highquality and competitive experience for all participants.
The tournament will culminate in a thrilling National Finals, where the winners of regional qualifiers will battle for the championship title. The National Finals will take place on August 10-11, 2024, at SM North EDSA, The Block – Atrium in Quezon City. “We are honored to partner with SBP for the SBP 3×3 Pambansang Tatluhan,” said Ms. Buxani. “This partnership underscores our shared passion for basketball and our dedication to supporting its growth at all levels. We believe that this tournament will provide a valuable platform for aspiring basketball players to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams.” Dy, SBP Executive Director, added, “We are grateful to SONAK (Molten Philippines) for their support of the SBP 3×3 Pambansang Tatluhan. Their commitment to providing topquality equipment will undoubtedly enhance the overall experience for our athletes. We look forward to a successful tournament and the continued growth of 3×3 basketball in the Philippines.”
BUKIDNON –
Local players leveraged their home-course advantage to deliver outstanding performances in the ICTSI Junior PGT Mindanao Series 3 at Del Monte Golf Club here yesterday (Tuesday).
Bukidnon’s Ralph Batican, fresh off his playoff victory over Jared Saban at South Pacific last week, dazzled with a flawless seven-under 65 to dominate the boys’ 10-12 division. He outclassed Ken Guillermo of Cagayan de Oro, who shot par 72, and Quezon City’s Javie Bautista, who finished with a 75. Bukidnon’s Mico Woo and Saban, the Apo leg champion, posted scores of 76 and 77, respectively.
“Playing here at Del Monte is an advantage for me because I know this course very well. I always play and practice here,” said 12-year-old Batican, who recorded seven birdies and 11 pars. “My game didn’t have a low part. But I will try to stay focused on my game tomorrow and not overthink.” Rafella Batican, who also triumphed at South Pacific, matched par 72 to seize a five-stroke lead in the girls’ 10-12 class. Kimberly Barroquillo and Brittany Tamayo both carded 77s, while Marqaela Dy from Cebu posted a 79. Rafella, though not entirely satisfied with her four-birdie, four-bogey round, vowed to practice hard and aim to break par in the final round of the 36-hole competition of the nationwide series sponsored by ICTSI and organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. In the boys’ 13-15 division, set over 54 holes, Bukidnon’s Alexis Nailga saved a 74 with a birdie on the ninth, gaining a four-shot lead over Korean Gunwoo Jeon from Cebu, who also birdied No. 9 for a 78.
Local player Clement Ordeneza recorded a 79.
Bukidnon’s Cliff Nuñeza produced a spectacular finish in the boys’ premier division (boys’ 16-18), birdying the last four holes to recover from a five-over card and shoot a 73. He surged ahead of erstwhile co-leader and Iloilo leg winner John Ray Oro, who finished with a 77.
Lady Bulldogs kick off V-League drive vs. Lady Knights
MISSING their top players due to national team commitments, the National University Lady Bulldogs are set for a challenging start as they face the Colegio de San Juan de Letran Lady Knights in the 2024 V-League Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila today (Wednesday).
The high noon showdown between the reigning UAAP champions and the NCAA bronze medalists promises to be fiercely contested, as both teams strive for an early advantage in the tournament.
NU will debut without their star players Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon and Arah Panique, who are currently with Alas Pilipinas Women in the ongoing SEA V.League tournament. Despite the absence of their top gunners, the Lady Bulldogs aim to outlast the winless Intramuros-based squad.
Meanwhile, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons kick off the fourth elimination playdate against the Lyceum of the Philippines University Lady Pirates at 10 a.m., seeking to build on their thrilling five-set victory against the FEU Lady Tams last July 31. Rookies Kassandra Doering and Kianne Olango are expected to lead UP’s charge against the Lady Pirates, who will rely on Johna Dolorito and Heart Bio. “Ang kulang pa rin namin ngayon is yung communication… Kumbaga yun pa yung kailangan namin, kasi I’m sure kung matuto magusap itong mga bata ito ay hindi kami mahihirapan magreceive kasi may skills na ‘eh. Kailangan lang is teamwork at
The contract signing ceremony at the SBP Office Launchpad Building in Mandaluyong, with Ms. Ishina Buxani, Marketing Director of SONAK, and Erika Dy, SBP Executive Director.
Jaycee Marcelino delivers for Zamboanga Master Sardines.
Players enjoy a refreshing treat of ice cream, courtesy of a generous parent with a child participating in the ICTSI JPGT Mindanao Series 3 in Bukidnon. The delightful dessert provided a much-needed break and relief after competing under the scorching sun at Del Monte Golf Club. Young golfers Zero Pleto and Muhafiz Tanog in action. Manny Marcelo
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Hoffman grateful to represent PH in Paris Olympics
FILIPINA-American hurdler Lauren
Hoffman concluded her Olympic debut in the women’s 400m hurdles at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing in seventh place in her repechage heat. Hoffman, who faced significant challenges in the lead-up to the Games, clocked a time of 58.28 seconds, placing her 20th out of the 21 athletes who competed in the repechage heats.
“Officially an Olympian, but man, these last two months have been a struggle. A struggle to stay healthy, to get the training in, to stay confident,” Hoffman shared on social media following her race at the State de France on Monday.
The top two athletes from each repechage heat advanced to the semifinals. France’s Shana Grebo (54.91) and Ukraine’s Anna Ryzhykova (54.95) earned their spots in the next round. Despite not advancing, Hoffman’s participation marked a significant milestone in her athletic career.
Hoffman holds the Philippine national record for the 400m hurdles with a time of 55.72 seconds, set in April. However, her performance in the repechage was slower than her 57.84-second mark in the preliminary heats, where she placed 37th overall.
“Two disappointing and humbling performances on the highest stage of sport, but I am still so grateful and want to thank God for the opportunity. Even though I couldn’t represent the country in the way I know I can, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything,” Hoffman reflected.
As Hoffman looks back on her Olympic journey with gratitude, she remains an inspiration for many aspiring athletes. Her resilience and determination to compete on the world stage highlight the spirit of perseverance.
Filipina-American hurdler Lauren Hoffman ended her Olympic debut in seventh place in the repechage heat of the women’s 400m hurdles of the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Meanwhile, world no. 35 hurdler John Cabang Tolentino will not be able to race in the men’s 110m hurdles repechage set at 10:50 a.m. on Tuesday (4 p.m. Philippines), due to an injury. Peter Atencio
Just like Yulo, Obiena to get cash gift, hero’s welcome, too
By Randy Caluag
THE City Government of Manila is set to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Olympians Carlos Edriel Yulo and Ernest John “EJ” Obiena with a grand hero’s parade, honoring the outstanding performances of these two Manileños at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Yulo, who made history by winning two gold medals in gymnastics in the world’s greatest sports spectacle, will be awarded P2 million cash incentives by the Manila City Government. “Deserve yan ni Caloy, na isang proud Manileño, nag-aral sa Aurora A. Quezon Elementary School sa Malate, ilang beses
naging pambato ng Maynila sa Palarong Pambansa, at nag-kolehiyo sa Adamson University dito sa Maynila,” said Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna.
“Nakaukit na siya sa kasaysayan sa pagkapanalo ng dalawang gintong medalya sa 2024 Paris Olympics. Ang kanyang nakakabilib na performance sa floor exercise at
By Riera U. Mallari
PARIS (Via PLDT Home) – Twentytwo brave and extraordinary athletes have competed and are still competing in the Olympics.
But I’m singling out one athlete for that extra prayer – Dottie Ardina, who will forever be my favorite golfer.
Sure, there have been more successful ones like Yuka Saso (now a Japanese citizen) and her fellow Asian Games gold medalist Bianca Pagdanganan, and younger sensations like Rianne Malixi and Harmie Constantino.
But Dottie will always have a special place in my heart because of my link to her family. Her dad, a former golf teaching pro, who everyone calls Tiger Ed, her doting mother Gina, and brother Matt, a former barangay kagawad and an always-absent road manager of my band, are personal friends.
So call me a biased sportswriter when it comes to Dottie.
I have heard of glowing tales about her golf skills when she was just five years old, of how she would let that golf ball fly to unimaginable lengths
Petecio aims for boxing’s final seat
NESTHY Petecio vows to give it all when she faces Poland’s Julia Szeremeta on Wednesday in the semifinals of the women’s boxing 57kg class in the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at the North Paris Arena. With the crucial guidance of her coaches Don Abnett and Elmer Pamisa, Petecio aims to advance to the gold medal round in their 3:45 a.m. encounter (Manila time).
“Walang hinto hangga’t walang ginto. So dalawa na lang. So hopefully makuha na natin this time,”said Petecio.
Petecio’s determination is fueled by her recent unanimous decision win over China’s Xu Zichun on Sun-
day. This victory has set the stage for her upcoming bout with Szeremeta, who made history by becoming the first Polish boxer to secure an Olympic medal since 1992, following her unanimous decision victory over Ashleyann Lozada Motta in the quarterfinals. Before this, Petecio triumphed over India’s Jaismine Lamboria and France’s Amina Zidani in earlier rounds, leading to her showdown with Szeremeta. Petecio emphasized her reliance on her coaches, saying, “Naniniwala kasi ako na ‘pag ‘yung gustung-gusto mong makuha, hindi binigay ni Lord, may mas magandang purpose po siya.”
in the Olympics, bringing immense pride and joy not only to Manila but to the entire country. Manila will not forget his other proud son, Obiena, a world-class pole vaulter. Despite narrowly missing a podium finish, Obiena’s exceptional talent and sportsmanship were on full display as he achieved a commendable 4th place in the pole vault finals at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Recognizing his dedication and remarkable performance, the Manila City Government will give him cash rewards, too.
“Kinikilala ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Maynila ang kanyang pagsusumikap at
even at that tender age.
Because she was so young at that time, me and my “Sports Column on Air” co-host Bong Boado decided instead to have Dottie’s brother, Matt, as a guest on our Sports Radio program to talk about his sister.
“Matt, kumusta naman si Dottie? Balita namin, napakagaling na batang golfer. May mga napanalunan na ba siyang mga tournaments?” I would ask Matt.
“Ay wala pa, kasi nagsisimula pa pa lang,” Matt replied. To which Bong would blurt out angrily: “Eh bakit ka namin gi-nuest dito?!”
That would be followed by laughter, the last we would ever have at that radio show because we were told not to return the following week.
But our friendship with Matt, Dottie, Gina and Tiger Ed would go on, with occasional visits at their Canlubang home. At the same time, Dottie continued her streak as she won countless golf titles and awards. As an amateur, Dottie was a five-time winner of the US Kids Golf Championship from 2002 to 2006 and a
bibigyan siya ng P500,000 bilang pasasalamat sa kanyang tiyaga at natatanging performance. Ang paglalakbay at mga tagumpay ni EJ ay patuloy na nagbibigay inspirasyon sa maraming batang atleta sa Maynila at sa buong bansa,” stated Mayor Lacuna. Obiena, who hails from Tondo, Manila, attended Chiang Kai Shek College for high school and represented the University of Santo Tomas (UST) in the UAAP. His journey and achievements continue to inspire many young athletes in Manila and across the Philippines. Mayor Lacuna emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating the hard work and triumphs of the city’s athletes. “Caloy and EJ exemplify what our youth can achieve through dedication, discipline, and community support. Their victories and unwavering spirit will always be a source of pride for the City of Manila.”
three-time winner of the Callaway Junior World Golf Championship in 2002, 2006, and 2008. In 2011, she was a finalist in the US Girls Junior Championship.
Before turning pro in 2013, Ardina won the gold medal for the Philippines in the 2009 Southeast Asian Games in the women’s team event.
As a pro, Ardina won the 2020 Ballarat Icons Pro Am title and two years later, she ruled the Copper Rock Championship.
In one of those amazing streaks of triumphs, I would put Dottie’s feat as my banner story even when there were more deserving ones that day.
“Dottierrific!” screamed the Manila Standard sports banner head as an ode to “Tigerrific!” every time Woods won a major.
As Dottie’s legend grew year after year, it also became a running joke between me and Matt, who I always introduced to friends as the brother of a world champion.
“Kapag hindi na world champion si Dottie, Matt na lang ang introduction namin sa iyo ‘no? ‘Uy si Matt nga pala’,” we would always kid him. “Hindi na -- ‘Si Matt nga pala, brother ng world golf champion.’”
So you get the drift – this connection with the Ardinas.
Two weeks ago, Matt (did I say he was our roadie?) appeared at my band’s gig, some 15 minutes when our set was already over. But we weren’t angry.
We were ecstatic, as a matter of fact, to embrace Matt, this time the brother of an Olympian.
“What if, manalo ng gold si Dottie ‘no? After all, tinatalo na niya ‘yung karamihan sa LPGA tour ‘di ba?, ” I told Matt.
“Magdilang anghel ka sana, kasi sa golf may tsamba,” said Matt.
If that day indeed comes, that would be ‘Dottieriffic’ not only for Matt, Tiger Ed, and Gina but also for this sportswriter – the family friend of an Olympic gold medalist.
(Dottie Ardina and Bianca Pagdanganan begin their Olympic campaigns today at the Le Golf National)
Nesthy Petecio hopes to barge into the finals and assure herself of dupli cating his silver finish in Tokyo 2020.
Matt with Tiger Ed and Gina
Gymnast Carlos Yulo and pole vaulter EJ Obiena are two proud Manileños. AFP and EJ FB photos
Dottie Ardina
Gov’t to train 128,000 electronic engineers, technicians by 2028
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Trade and Industry-Board of Investments (DTI-BOI)
teamed up with other agencies and private sector organizations to train 128,000 engineers and technicians to support the country’s semiconductor and electronics industry by 2028.
The BOI, the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) and the Center for Integrated Circuits and Devices Research (CIDR) agreed to level up the Filipino workforce’s skills to bolster the semiconductor industry.
“From micro-engineers to TESDAcertified technicians, licensed engineers to PhD and Masters graduates, we will need their skills and capabilities to move the semiconductor and electronics industry forward,” said Trade Undersecretary and BOI man-
aging head Ceferino Rodolfo. Rodolfo highlighted the Philippines’ advantage in having a young and talented workforce, emphasizing the need to harness this potential through collaboration with educational institutions and government agencies like Department of Education, ), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
“There is a significant shortage of graduate-level personnel, which is hindering our ability to attract investments in advanced technology,” said Dr. Louis Alarcon, head of Microelectronics Department at the University of the Philippines.
Dan Lachica, president of Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Inc. (SEIPI), said students should be informed of the country’s semiconductor industry opportunities to increase the workforce.
June trade deficit widened to $4.3b as exports fell 17%
By Darwin G. Amojelar
Preliminary data show that the country’s total external trade in goods amounted to $15.44 billion in June, down by 11.3 percent from $17.40 billion in the same month last year. Trade deficit amounted to $4.30 billion in June, with exports falling by 17.3 percent to $5.57 billion and im-
ports dropping 7.5 percent to $10.67 billion.
This brought total exports in the first half of 2024 to $36.41 billion, up 3 percent from $35.34 billion a year ago. Imports in the first six months went down by 2.5 percent to $61.41 billion from $62.96 billion.
Trade deficit in the first half of 2024 reached $25 billion, lower than the $27.6-billion shortfall a year earlier. By commodity group, electronic products remained the country’s top exports in June 2024 with total earnings of $2.99 billion or 53.7 percent of the total. This was followed by other manufactured goods with an export value of $285.56 million and other mineral products with $252.03 million. The United States remained the country’s top export destination at $897.80 million, followed by Hong Kong at $886.64 million, People’s
NU president RJ Ermita, APC president Tata Medado and Vic Chan, Ethel Concepcion and Cedrik Forbes of SMIC.
AmCham signs deal with SM to upskill thousands of employees
THE American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) signed a memorandum of understanding with SM’s Job Opportunities Building Skills (J.O.B.S.) advocacy.
The partnership aims to provide upskilling opportunities to thousands of employees within the AmCham network and allow AmCham’s more than 800 member companies to participate in SM job fairs across the country. AmCham, incorporated in 1920, continues to help contribute to the economic growth of the Philippines and serve the interests of Philippine and American businesses through the participation of members in promoting its long-term objectives.
“AmCham has always pushed towards upskilling our local workforce as we see how crucial it is in the
sustainability of business,” said AmCham executive director Ebb Hinchliffe.
“The SM J.O.B.S. advocacy’s two-pronged approach to empowering the Filipino worker is quite an effective way to reach people and provide opportunities nationwide,” said Hinchliffe.
Taking off from the success of its internal upskilling program, the SM Group teamed up with the AmCham to effectively impact a significant portion of the Filipino workforce.
Through the partnership, workers will be equipped with digital skills to enhance their productivity and contribute to their professional development.
Courses like Digital Marketing for eCommerce, Cloud Foundation, Business Analytics and Com-
puter Security are among the available subjects for interested employees.
“SM will continue to hold job fairs across the country to match job opportunities with the right skills and talents. By providing a venue for employers and potential employees, we are doing our part in pushing job acceleration,” said Teresita Sy-Coson, lead of the J.O.B.S. project under the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC).
SM said with the maiden partnership in the private sector, its commitment to invest in people and be a catalyst to job generation remains strong.
Employees can stay competitive and at pace with the changing demands of the workforce while companies become future-ready to take on the challenges of the global economy, the group said.
Cebu Pacific expands flights from Davao
CEBU Pacifi c said Tuesday it is expanding its network with new domestic and international routes from Davao City.
“We are excited to restore international flights and operate additional domestic routes from our hub in Mindanao,” Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer Xander Lao said.
“Through Cebu Pacific’s extensive network and value-for-money fares, more travelers from Davao will now be able to discover what the Philippines and the rest of the world has to offer,” he said.
Cebu Pacific said that starting Oct. 28, 2024, the airline would operate direct 3x-weekly flights between Davao and Bangkok-Don Mueang.
The airline is also launching daily
flights from Davao to Caticlan and Puerto Princesa on Oct. 27, 2024, and 3x-weekly flights to and from Tacloban starting Oct. 29, 2024.
Cebu Pacific announced an ongoing seat sale until Aug. 15, 2024, allowing passengers to book their flights across these additional routes for as low as P1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and charges.
The travel period is from Oct. 21, 2024 to March 31, 2025. Cebu Pacific announced on July 2, 2024 that it
Republic of China at $868.44 million, Japan at $746.97 million and Republic of Korea at $240.26 million. Meanwhile, China was the country’s largest supplier of imported goods valued at $2.60 billion, followed by Indonesia, $861.69 million; Japan, $763.20 million; Republic of Korea, $715.14 million; and the US, $658.00 million.
August interest rate cut now less likely—BSP
By Ralph Harvey Rirao BANGKO
Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)
Governor and Monetary Board chairman Eli Remolona Jr. said Tuesday an interest rate cut in August 2024 is now
“less likely” after inflation rate climbed to 4.4 percent in July, which is above the target range.
“[It is now] less likely because of the inflation, but we have to look at other numbers,” Remolona said.
The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that July inflation picked up from 3.7 percent in June, but was slower than 4.7 percent a year ago. The BSP said the latest inflation outturn was consistent with its latest assessment that consumer prices likely rose faster in July.
Remolona said, however, the actual figure was slightly worse than expected.
“The 4.4 percent included the base effect of 0.3 percent. So without the base effect, it’s really 4.1 percent, which is still worse than expected but not that bad. It slightly breached the ceiling,” Remolona said, referring to the target range of 2 percent to 4 percent.
Remolona said the BSP was also studying various data on whether a monetary easing this month would be justified.
“The Monetary Board will consider the latest inflation outturn as well as the Q2 2024 national accounts in its assessment of the inflation outlook and the balance of risks in the August 2024 monetary policy meeting,” the BSP said in a statement.
TOURIST REST AREA. Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco
( fth from right) signs an agreement with Tabaco City Mayor Krisel Lagman for the construction of a tourist rest area (TRA) in Tabaco City. The agreement, formalized after the groundbreaking ceremony, marks a signi cant milestone in the region’s tourism infrastructure and sustainability.
PH stocks fall on higher July inflation
By Jenniffer B. Austria
PHILIPPINE stocks closed marginally lower Tuesday as July inflation rate came in higher than expected, which could derail the much-anticipated interest rate cut this month.
Regina Capital Development Corp. head of sales Luis Limlingan said the index ended flat despite a strong rebound during the early morning trading as investors monitored economic data in both the United States and Japan, especially for signs of global recession.
The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index shed 1.49 points, or 0.02 percent, to close at 6,433.24, while the broader all-shares index inched up by 4.47 points, or 0.13 percent, to reach 3,520.94.
July inflation rate rose to 4.4 percent from 3.7 percent in June. The increase was driven by higher inflation in both food and non-food items, with notable upticks in housing prices, utilities, fuel, meat, corn and fruits.
As the July inflation rate came in slightly worse than expected, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas indicated that government’s monetary policy would remain unchanged.
Analysts earlier predicted that the BSP might start cutting rates in its next policy meeting later this month.
Sectoral indices ended mixed. Mining and oil declined by 1.76 percent, while industrial and financial dropped by 0.54 percent and 0.16 percent, respectively. Property advanced by 0.60 percent, while services and holding firms went up by 0.38 percent and 0.10 percent, respectively.
Value turnover reached P4.59 billion. There were 84 advancers and 97 decliners.
Petron posted flat profit growth in first 6 months
By Alena Mae S. Flores
PETRON Corp. said
Tuesday it posted a flat net income growth in the first half of 2024 to P6 billion from P6.14 billion in the same period last year.
Petron said in a statement it delivered a 21-percent growth in consolidated revenues in the six-month period to P444.5 billion from last year’s P367 billion, sustaining its positive momentum.
“Our prudent and strategic approach continues to pay off amid challenging
economic conditions. Moreover, we were able to retain our edge in vital sectors and enjoy the trust of more and more customers. Our focus remains on strengthening the quality of our products and services while creating excellent value for our stakeholders,” said Petron president and chief executive Ramon Ang.
The company continued to register strong volumes in the Philippines and Malaysia which reached 69.1 million barrels in the first six months, up 20 percent from 57.6 million barrels sold in the same period last year.
Petron said the solid volume outcome was fueled by the sustained performance of key segments, particularly retail and exports.
Petron’s sales volumes in the Philippines rose 27 percent to 44.4 million barrels, while
volumes from its Malaysian operations grew 9 percent to 24.7 million barrels.
Meanwhile, Petron’s retail segment, which posted a 10-percent increase, remained a key driver of the stellar volume performance through effective marketing programs.
The Philippines and Malaysia have a combined service station network of about 2,600 outlets. Sales to industrial accounts also jumped 9 percent mainly on higher jet fuel and LPG demand.
Petron said global oil prices remained volatile because of ongoing tension in the Middle East with the price of per barrel of Dubai crude averaging $83 in the first six months, or 5-percent higher than in the same period in 2023 as producers continued to manage supply.
ACEN retail arm helps RCBC Plaza switch to 100% renewable energy
ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES), the retail electricity unit of the ACEN Corp., is helping RCBC Plaza in Makati City switch to 100-percent renewable energy.
ACEN said in a statement this marks a significant leap forward for RCBC Plaza, solidifying its commitment to environmental leadership.
“We are delighted to partner with RCBC Plaza in their shift to 100 percent renewable energy. By choosing ACEN RES, they are enabling ACEN to develop more renewable energy capacity, help the country achieve its target to increase the share of renewables, and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels,” ACEN president and chief executive Eric Francia said.
ACEN is the listed energy platform of the Ayala Group with a fast-growing presence in the Philippines, Australia,
POWER retailer Manila Electric Co.
Vietnam, India, Indonesia, Lao PDR and the United States.
The complex, known for its two office towers, four-level podium and extensive amenities, is the first IT zone in Makati designated by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority.
It also houses the 450-seat Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, the Yuchengco Museum, a 200-seat chapel, banking chambers, convenience and service shops, a food court, seven levels of basement parking, lecture and seminar rooms, and an open-air courtyard.
RCBC Plaza received its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) EBOM gold certification in May 2018, making it the first multi-tenanted building in the Philippines to achieve the prestigious certification. It was renewed in March 2024. Alena Mae S. Flores
both aim to help bolster the economy.
EMPERADOR Inc., a global brandy and whisky firm led by billionaire Andrew Tan, said Tuesday its net profit attributed to the parent company reached P2.1 billion in the second quarter of 2024, down 12.5 percent from P2.4 billion in the same period last year.
Emperador said in a disclosure to the stock exchange first-half attributable net income hit P3.8 billion, or 19 percent lower than P4.7 billion earned a year ago.
“The market is inundated with cheap products as consumers seek for value. The company is pivoting towards a more competitive stance. However, we believe that in the longterm, the premiumization strategy remains compelling,” Emperador said.
Meanwhile, Emperador’s whisky segment continued to perform better than the industry in many markets as single malt remains a bright spot in the total alcohol beverage industry as it is one of the few growing categories.
(Meralco) on Tuesday reaffirmed its commitment to delivering “safe, adequate, reliable, sustainable, and quality service” to property developer Ayala Land Inc. (ALI).
The power distributor laid down plans to boost infrastructure support to ALI’s upcoming developments during a strategic business review session.
Meralco is set to build new substations within several Ayala Land developments particularly for Circuit Makati and Park links Estate facing Quezon City and Pasig City.
“Meralco’s long-standing collaboration with Ayala Land resulted in many successful endeavours over the years. With the upcoming projects involving the construction of substations, Ayala Land will enable us to fulfil our commitment in helping our communities grow by providing reliable and adequate electric service to more customers,” said Meralco senior vice president and chief revenue officer Ferdinand Geluz.
CONGLOMERATE DMCI Holdings Inc. of the Consunji family said Tuesday its second-quarter net income dropped 32 percent to P5.5 billion from P8.1 billion recorded in the same period last year.
DMCI attributed the decline to weak performances from its integrated energy, real estate and nickel mining subsidiaries, which offset the improved results from its water, off-grid power and construction businesses. The company said in a stock exchange filing that excluding non-recurring items, core net income also fell 32 percent to P5.5 billion from P8.1 billion.
“We are now in the new normal. Market prices and global supply chains have normalized, so our challenge is to strategically manage costs, optimize operational efficiency and capitalize on synergies across our business units,” said DMCI Holdings chairman and president Isidro Consunji. First-half net income also declined by 29 percent to P11.2 billion from P15.6 billion a year ago on reduced contributions from coal mining, ongrid power, real estate and construction subsidiaries as well as a net loss in the nickel mining business. Stronger contributions from the water and off-grid segments partially mitigated these impacts. Net income contribution from Semirara Mining and Power Corp. declined 41 percent in the second quarter to P3.4 billion from P5.8 billion last year, as the energy markets normalized. Higher coal and electricity sales volumes cushioned the impact of softer selling prices. The property business under DMCI Homes contributed P737 million, down 43 percent from P1.3 billion, due to lower real estate revenues and higher operating expenses, which were partly offset by increased contributions from joint venture construction revenues, rentals and forfeitures. Jenniffer B. Austria
allowing Meralco to energize projects in an efficient and timely manner.
This is also aligned with the current administration’s priorities under its socioeconomic agenda, particularly energy security and infrastructure development.
“We, at Meralco, keep our lines of communication open with our enterprise partners such as Ayala Land. This enables continuous improvement and innovation in empowering not only our commercial customers but also businesses that support communities and power our economy,” said Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer Ronnie Aperocho. Alena Mae S. Flores GREEN HEART. Okada Manila, a fivestar integrated resort in the Philippines, conducts a tree planting project as part of its commitment to sustainability through its environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) vision and mission, embodied in the Okada Green Heart program. The initiative highlights the dedication to reducing environmental impact, fostering community well-being, and promoting responsible business practices. OUTSTANDING
Second-quarter revenues amounted to P15.5 billion, bringing first-half figure to P28.6 billion.
Emperador said its financial results improved quarter-on-quarter due better markets in Asia, Europe and Latin America.
“There are signs that consumer confidence is returning globally evidenced by higher revenues vs the previous quarter amidst challenges of high interest rates, inflation, and geopolitical uncertainty,” Emperador said.
It said its business remained resilient due to its diversified portfolio in whisky and brandy, which covers numerous price points, and its wide distribution, which includes over 100 markets.
The liquor firm said, however, the Philippine market remained challenging amid increased competition from lower priced products.
The company’s single malt portfolio with brands such as The Dalmore, Jura, and Tamnavulin, which are among the top 15 single malts by volume globally according to industry reports, is wellpositioned to withstand headwinds.
The group is also set to double the current capacity of the distillery before the end of this year while it also expands its warehouses to accommodate aging of liquids from the expanded Dalmore distillery.
“The fundamentals of the company are intact and long-term trajectory is still on track. Once global economies improve and consumer demand for premium and luxury products returns, our performance will see new heights. The company continues to strategically invest in the business for the future,” said Emperor president Winston Co. Jenniffer B. Austria
Meralco said this undertaking solidifies its strong partnership with ALI, which
The company has six existing substation facilities servicing ALI estates. ALI consistently provides a substation lot provision for its developments,
Metro Manila places 93rd among 100 sustainable cities
METRO Manila remained in the bottom half of leading global design and consultancy Arcadis’ Sustainable Cities Index 2024 at 93rd spot among 100 cities, highlighting the need for significant improvement and opportunities to learn from other leading cities to address sustainability challenges.
Arcadis released the Sustainable Cities Index 2024, revealing an urgent need for accelerated action in tackling climate change and other sustainability challenges. With less than six years remaining until the 2030 deadline for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals
MICT welcomes maiden call of China-PH service
MINDANAO Container Terminal (MCT), an International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) facility, welcomed the maiden call of SITC’s new China-Philippines Express 7 (CXP7) service.
The new service caters to the increasing export volume of fresh produce from Bukidnon such as pineapple and banana, providing exporters from Mindanao with a reliable and efficient transport solution for enhanced connectivity to markets in China.
“SITC’s new service is designed to meet the growing demand for increased calls at MCT that will cater to the needs of pineapple and banana shippers for timely exports to China,” MCT chief executive Aurelio Garcia said.
The CPX7 service’s rotation covers the ports of Shanghai, Wenzhou, Manila (South), Cebu and Cagayan de Oro (MCT), calling MCT every Monday. Its maiden call in Cagayan was marked by the arrival of 1,800-TEU capacity vessel SITC Haode.
The new service underscores MCT’s critical role as a trade facilitator in Southern Philippines, reflecting its commitment to enhancing offerings and supporting the growth of the Mindanao’s agricultural export sector.
MICT, a subsidiary of ICTSI develops, manages and operates the container terminal at the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. Darwin G. Amojelar
Executives of DMG Holdings Inc., Withlink Co. Ltd. and SM lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the rst Philippine store of Buchiton, a ramen producer from Hiroshima, Japan at SM San Lazaro in Manila on Aug. 1, 2024. Attending the event are (from left) Alan Jarantilla, SM regional operations manager for Central 4; Clair Rue, SM San Lazaro mall manager; Nelson del Mundo, DMG chief executive o cer; Yuki Himoro, Withlink operations manager, overseas business department; Matthew Ablis, DMG chief operating o cer; and Noburo Fukada, Withlink head of research and development.
(SDGs), the report serves as a reminder of the work cities must undertake.
The Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index (SCI) ranks 100 global cities across three pillars of sustainability: Planet, People and Profit. Marking the sixth edition of the report since its incep-
tion in 2015, it comprises 67 metrics to highlight our evolving understanding of urban sustainability.
Amsterdam takes top spot as the most sustainable city thanks to strong economic performance, social equity and investments in renewable energy, followed by Rotterdam (2nd), Copenhagen (3rd), Frankfurt (4th) and Munich (5th).
“Our ranking in the Sustainable Cities Index 2024 is a reminder of our long journey ahead and underscores the significant strides we still need to take to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. While challenging, this reality also presents an opportunity for growth, innovation and further collabo-
ration by the public and private sectors to drive the necessary changes to create more a sustainable and equitable city,” said Katherine Ann Resurreccion, service line director for sustainability solutions at Arcadis Philippines. The report showed that Metro Manila achieved its highest score in the Planet pillar (77th), highlighting efforts towards emission reduction and renewable energy. Its ranking fell in the People (91st) and Profit (84th) pillars. It finds itself in the “Cities lacking momentum” category within the Progress pillar, suggesting overwhelming challenges and limited progress on sustainability initiatives in recent years.
Mindanao Container Terminal (MCT), an International
call of SITC’s new China-Philippines Express 7 (CXP7)
and
of fresh produce from Bukidnon such
exporters from Mindanao with a reliable and e cient transport solution for enhanced connectivity to markets in China.
BOC accounts o ce garners praises from business groups
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) accounts management office (AMO) earned praises from key industry groups for the significant improvements in operational efficiency and client service.
The BOC said in a statement the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce Philippines (FICCP), the Practicing Customs Brokers Association of the Philippines (PCBAP) and the Chamber of Customs Brokers Inc. (CCBI) lauded the agency’s recent improvements.
The FICCP specifically highlighted the office’s client-centric approach and responsiveness, particularly its effective handling of renewal applications.
“We take this opportunity to congratulate you on the many positive reforms that we are experiencing first hand when it comes to huge improvements on how things are done at the bureau,” the FICCP said. Meanwhile, both PCBAP and CCBI commended the AMO for exemplary handling of Customs brokers’ registration and renewal processes.
They noted the office’s commitment to resolving system issues and delays and its pro-active approach to accreditation applications, which has led to quicker approvals for new and renewal applications.
Under the leadership of Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, the AMO implemented transformative reforms that enhanced its operations. Rubio’s strong commitment to transparency, accountability and efficiency modernized the bureau’s processes and fostered a culture of continuous improvement and exceptional service.
ARTA, BARMM sign agreement to streamline gov’t services in Mindanao
By Othel V. Campos
THE Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MILGBARMM) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Aug. 2, 2024 to streamline government services and promote ease of doing business in the region.
Under the MOU, ARTA will assist MILG in re-engineering and streamlining government processes, providing regulatory impact assessment training and identifying potential investment areas for collaboration with foreign chambers of commerce.
“It has been my priority to reach out to our brothers and sisters in the BARMM Region, in order to share whatever knowledge and expertise that we have gained in the process of imple-
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Central Visayas tapped PLDT Enterprise to enhance its operations with reliable internet and voice connectivity.
PLDT Enterprise will equip DPWH Region VII with iGate and SIP Trunks, facilitating seamless access and communication across the government agency’s clientele in Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental and Siquijor – the constituent provinces of Central Visayas. The company’s iGate is a dedicated internet access service that provides customers with guaranteed bandwidth and is tailor-fit for running bandwidthintensive applications, hosting richmedia content and supporting missioncritical communications.
SIP trunks are telephone lines ported to a different telephone exchange, a service that is best for offices based in geographically dispersed locations that need constant contact.
“We hope to strengthen this partnership across Region VII and, if we are successful, recommend this as a model for other regions,” newly-appointed DPWH Region VII head Danilo Villa Jr. said.
PLDT Enterprise assistant vice president and head of customer relationship management for the Visayas
Kent de la Calzada said the partnership with DPWH Region VII is part of the PLDT Group’s much larger goal of extending a helping hand in nation-building.
“We, at PLDT Enterprise, are com-
menting Republic Act 11032,” said ARTA Secretary Ernesto Perez.
The collaboration is expected to benefit businesses and citizens by making government services more accessible, reducing red tape and attracting investments.
It will also contribute to the overall goal of streamlining government services and combating corruption in the country.
These efforts are expected to lead to faster and more efficient government services, reduced costs for businesses, increased job opportunities, and a more business-friendly environment in the BARMM region.
MILG Minister Sha Elijah DumamaAlba said the partnership is a significant step towards achieving the goals of the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) law and creating a more conducive environment for economic growth in the region.
Buchiton unveils PH expansion, plans to establish 23 outlets by 2026
BUCHITON Ramen House, a top ramen restaurant from Hiroshima, Japan, which recently opened its Philippine store at SM San Lazaro in Manila, plans to rapidly expand its network in the country, with 23 outlets eyed by 2026.
DMG Holdings Inc., the master franchisee of Buchiton Ramen House in the Philippines and Withlink Co. Ltd., the Japanese operator of Buchiton, plan to invest at least P200 million until 2026 to generate new jobs and franchise opportunities to young entrepreneurs in the Philippines.
“Buchiton targets to open three outlets this year, 10 by 2025 and 10 by 2026,” said DMG Holdings chief operating officer Matthew Ablis.
DMG Holdings is a major food group in the Philippines which operates 29 restaurant outlets under major brands. It owns and operates seven stores of Mesa Restaurant, seven stores of Hayashi Restaurant, nine stores of Old Town Malaysian Cuisine, four stores of Vari Uma Japanese Cuisine and the recently-opened Bu-
mitted to helping our customers succeed in their endeavors. And for a government agency like DPWH Region VII, that commitment to succeed is more focused in view of the impact of its various projects on the economy and the lives of the residents of Central Visayas,” De la Calzada said. PLDT Enterprise is the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines. Dedicated to delivering innovative fi xed-line, wireless and ICT solutions, PLDT Enterprise enables businesses to adapt to evolving technological needs, optimize efficiency, continuity and connectivity and enhance customer experience. Darwin G. Amojelar
chiton Japanese Ramen store. Ablis said that aside from Buchiton’s first Philippine outlet at SM San Lazaro, it would open two more stores this year at SM CebuConsolacion and SM East Ortigas Mall. He said DMG Holdings, headed by chief executive Nelson del Mundo, would invest between P7 million and P9 million to open a Buchiton store in the Philippines.
Withlink, the Japanese operator of Buchiton Ramen House, belongs to Yoshinoya Holdings Co. Ltd., which is known for Japan’s worldfamous beef bowl.
Buchiton opened its first store in the Philippines on Aug. 1, 2024. The store, located at SM San Lazaro in Manila, now serves Tonkotsu ramen—a broth made from pork bones simmered for a long time.
Buchiton has been making ramen in Japan for over 20 years and is known for its use of genuine ingredients and traditional recipes.
Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) facility, welcomes the maiden
service. The new service caters to the increasing export volume
as pineapple
banana, providing
BSP launches e-Learning Academy, fin-ed initiatives
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and its partner organizations are working on online and innovative training platforms to broaden the reach of financial education (fin-ed) and strengthen consumer protection. It made the announcement during the launch of the Innovative Financial Education Programs at the BSP Manila head office on Aug. 5, 2024. The BSP said it created the BSP ELearning Academy (BELA—an online platform that provides e-learning courses on personal finance, economics and central banking. It complements the BSP’s existing fin-ed programs that are delivered face-to-face and through other modalities. Select stakeholders are now testing BELA, which is expected to be fully accessible to the public by the second quarter of 2025.
“Our initiatives are designed to help
people safeguard credit cardholders from potential pitfalls, transform over 37,000 DSWD employees and 3,600 local social welfare officers into champions of financial literacy, and capacitate over 10.8 million Filipino farmers and fisherfolk through innovative educational tools,” said BSP Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.
The event also served as venue for the signing of separate fin-ed partnership agreements for the BSP by Romulo-Puyat, representing Governor Eli Remolona, Jr., with Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary Asis Perez, Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) chairman Rolando Ebreo, BDO Foundation (BDOF) president Mario Deriquito and BDO Unibank Inc. president and BDOF trustee Nestor Tan.
PH per capita income rises over 10%
PER capita income in the Philippines continued to rise at a rapid pace and now exceeded the prepandemic level by more than 10 percent, according to economic managers.
Speaking at the Development Budget Coordination Committee’s (DBCC) national budget briefing to the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the real GDP per capita in the first quarter of 2024 grew by 4.8 percent and was higher than its prepandemic level by over 10 percent.
IN BRIEF
“The
“Overall, the new term facility will ensure that the U.S. business has adequate financing in place to seize growth opportunities, navigate potential challenges effectively and drive future profitability especially as market conditions in the U.S. are anticipated to improve,” it said. Jenniffer B. Austria AC Health acquires St. Joseph Drug stake
AYALA Healthcare Holdings Inc. (AC Health) of the Ayala Group said Tuesday it completed the acquisition of a 49-percent stake in North Luzon-based pharmaceutical company St. Joseph Drug. AC Health said in a statement the acquisition was completed after the deal was approved by the Philippine Competition Commission.
“Our investment in St. Joseph Drug highlights AC Health’s dedication to expanding healthcare accessibility. Integrating St. Joseph Drug into the AC Health ecosystem will streamline our pharmacy network, enhancing access to affordable and quality medicines,” said AC Health president and chief executive Paolo Borromeo.
“We eagerly anticipate growing the network and further integrating St. Joseph Drug with AC Health” Borromeo said. AC Health and Joleco Resources Inc., operator of St Joseph Drug, signed definitive agreements to acquire a significant minority stake in the pharmaceutical firm on Dec. 15 last year. Jenniffer B. Austria BIR, Ateneo algorithm tracks ghost receipts
BUREAU of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said Tuesday a partnership with Ateneo de Manila University - Math Department resulted in the creation of a sophisticated algorithm that could identify ghost receipts with remarkable accuracy.
“The BIR is grateful for the algorithm developed by talented students of the Ateneo de Manila University - Math Department. This algorithm empowers the BIR to identify Ghost Receipts through Mathematics and data analytics. The magnitude by which Ghost Receipts have become part of the Philippine economy is alarming, due to the lack of detection and enforcement for the past decades. That ends now,” Lumagui said. The BIR, after the initial raid of a condominium unit where a ghost receipts syndicate located
Balisacan provided an overview of the country’s recent economic performance and focused on the country’s gains in national income, employment and poverty indicators.
He cited the latest labor force survey figures from May 2024 showing a steady decline in the underemployment rate—an indicator of job quality—as it reached 9.9 percent, the lowest figure recorded since 2005.
Citing the 2023 official poverty statistics report, Balisacan said poverty incidence declined to 15.5 percent from 18.1 percent between 2023 and 2021, translating into 2.45 million fewer Filipinos living in poverty and 1.71 million fewer food-poor individuals.
Meanwhile, Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Ralph Recto highlighted the country’s progress toward achieving the fiscal program for the year, noting that the country already achieved half of its targets for total revenue collection, with total revenues growing by 15.6 percent to P2.15 trillion in the first half of 2024. Recto assured the members of the
Committee on Appropriations of the DOF’s commitment to sound and prudent fiscal management with the debtto-GDP ratio projected to ease to 60.4 percent in 2025.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli Remolona drew attention to the country’s easing inflation outlook, which allows the central bank to maintain its current monetary policy settings for the time being. Remolona still stressed the need to effectively implement non-monetary measures on the supply side to reduce and manage inflation. These include measures related to increasing agricultural productivity, as well as tariff
Social Security System (SSS) president and chief executive Rolando Ledesma Macasaet ( fth from left) and Batanes Governor Marilou Cayco (fourth from left) sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that allows the provincial government’s job orders workers to get social security coverage from SSS under the the KaSSSangga Collect Program (KCP).
THE Social Security System (SSS) said Tuesday more than 2,000 job order (JO) workers of the provincial local government (PLGU) of Batanes will now have social security protection under the KaSSSangga Collect Program (KCP).
SSS president and chief executive Rolando Ledesma Macasaet and Batanes Governor Marilou Cayco signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that allows the provincial government’s JO workers to get social security coverage from SSS un-
GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY. The Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines (BMAP), on its 50th anniversary celebration, launches the Bank Marketing Academy in partnership with the Asian Institute of Management (AIM). Signing the partnership agreement are (from left) AIM partnership director Georgina Banzon, AIM School head of executive education and lifelong learning Albert Mateo, BMAP president and Standard Chartered corporate a airs, brand and marketing head Mai Gacilo Sangalang and BMAP vice president and Citystate Savings Bank integrated marketing and communications consultant Eric Montelibano.
der the KCP.
“This only shows SSS is committed to its mandate of expanding social security protection and services to all working Filipinos up to the last mile provinces in the Philippines like Batanes,” Macasaet said.
Macasaet said that under the KCP, PLGU’s JO workers would be registered as SSS self-employed members. PLGU Batanes will serve as the SSS collecting partner, who will collect the contributions of the JO workers
modification and importation to improve food supply. The economic managers stressed the need to sustain the government’s ongoing initiatives and priorities that are in line with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 while integrating lessons learned from previous years into the design and implementation of its programs and projects for 2025.
“To boost growth next year, the Marcos administration will continue to implement the strategies we have set in the Philippine Development Plan 20232028, guided by the lessons we have identified in the Philippine Development Report 2023,” said Balisacan.
BSP launches plan to protect banks against cyber threats
By Ralph Harvey Rirao
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Tuesday launched the Financial Services Cyber Resilience Plan (FSCRP) at the Philippine International Convention Center to strengthen banks and other fi nancial institutions against cyber threats. The FSCRP serves as a comprehensive roadmap and primary framework aimed at enhancing the resilience of the financial services sector against cyber threats. It also outlines high-level goals and strategies essential for maintaining the integrity and security of the country’s fi nancial ecosystem.
More than 200 executives from banks, industry associations and government agencies attended the launching of FSRCP with the theme “Fortifying Cyber-Frontier for BSP-Supervised Financial Institutions”.
BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. stressed the importance of cybersecurity in light of the rapid digital transformation in financial services.
He encouraged stakeholders to pursue holistic efforts to combat evolving cyber threats. “The 2024-2029 Financial Services Cyber Resilience Plan is a key pillar in the industry’s cybersecurity journey. I urge all stakeholders to embrace this plan as a commitment to building trust, reliability, and security in fi nancial services for every Filipino,” he said.
through a salary deduction scheme and remit them to the SSS.
“The timely remittance of monthly premiums will ensure that JO workers are qualified to avail of SSS benefits and loan privileges in times of emergencies,” Macasaet said.
He said the JO workers, as self-employed members, could avail of SSS benefits like sickness, maternity, disability, retirement, death and funeral.
“They can also avail of loan privileges such as salary and calamity loans,” he said.
Hundreds of Filipino investors acquire golden visa—GVC
GOLDEN Visa Centrale (GVC), a premier international property marketing consultancy in the Philippines, is facilitating hundreds of golden visa applications to transform Filipinos’ European and American dreams into reality. Vicky Luis, GVC founder, said she started the company after discovering golden visa programs and realizing their potential to provide Filipino students easier access to education and career opportunities abroad.
“The more I researched, the more I saw the potential benefits for Filipino families. I founded Golden Visa Centrale to help them navigate the complexities of the golden visa process and secure a better future for their loved ones,” Luis said. She started GVC in 2019 with a meeting of 10 couples at Manila House to discuss golden visa programs. “In just five years, we are now a leading international property marketing consultancy specializing in residency by investment in the Philippines, facilitating various golden visa programs from the U.S., Canada and European countries like Portugal and Greece,” she said. “At GVC, we have successfully processed and facilitated hundreds of golden visa applications across various European countries and the US. To date, we have over 200 satisfied clients and are one of the leading providers of the Spain, Greece and Portugal Golden Visa to the Philippines,” Luis said.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) signs a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and BDO Foundation to implement a nancial education program for the social welfare sector. Signing the agreement are (seated, from left) BDOF president Mario Deriquito, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, BSP Deputy Governor Romulo-Puyat and BDO president and BDOF trustee Nestor Tan. Standing are (from left) BDOF trustee Maria Corazon Mallillin, DSWD Undersecretary Denise Florence B. Bernos-Bragas and BSP managing director Charina De Vera-Yap.
SPOTLIGHT
Philanthropist runs 600kms for underserved kids
IN BRIEF
Kantil’s vision: A New chapter for Philippine cinema
AS the Philippine film industry continues to evolve, “Kantil” emerges as a cinematic testament to the country’s rich cultural tapestry and storytelling prowess. Directed by Joshua Caesar Medroso, this upcoming film delves deep into contemporary Filipino life, exploring themes of resilience, identity, and societal challenges.
“Kantil” is the latest offering from director Joshua Caesar Medroso. It promises to showcase a unique narrative driven by compelling characters and vivid storytelling. Set against a backdrop of rapidly changing social landscapes, the film navigates the complexities of modern-day Filipino society, focusing on the lives of its characters as they confront personal and communal challenges.
The production of “Kantil” emphasizes the importance of authentic representation and the power of storytelling in effecting social change. Medroso’s vision for the film is rooted in highlighting the universal human experience while celebrating the nuances of Filipino culture.
Partnership drives sustainability efforts
DRAKE Business Services Asia Philippines (DBSAP) has announced a new partnership with UN Laureate Glenn Banaguas to champion environmental sustainability. This collaboration will leverage innovative practices and cutting-edge technology to set new standards in sustainability, aiming to inspire communities across the region.
DBSAP plans to implement advanced energy management systems to reduce energy consumption and promote renewable sources. Comprehensive waste management strategies will be introduced, focusing on recycling and minimizing landfill contributions. Through education, community engagement, and collaboration, DBSAP and Banaguas aim to foster environmental stewardship and resilience, driving impactful change for a sustainable future.
Kingsford Hotel Manila hosts curated wellness journey
KINGSFORD Hotel Manila in Westside City, Paranaque, invites guests to take a break from the fast-paced world and embark on a wellness journey. The hotel introduces KALM by Kingsford, a newly opened spa offering therapeutic massages designed to relieve stress and promote relaxation. Guests can enjoy Healthy Bento Meals with nutritious options such as Broccoli Penne Salad and Healthy Beef Tapa, paired with refreshing drinks like Mango Cranberry Juice. The hotel’s Deluxe Rooms offer a serene escape with amenities including Cable TV and evening tea, providing a peaceful retreat from city life. This press release highlights Kingsford Hotel Manila’s commitment to providing a luxurious and rejuvenating experience for its guests.
GO Hotels’ properties—Manila Airport Road, Ermita-Manila, North EDSA, and Timog-Quezon City—managed by Roxaco-Asia Hospitality Corporation, are excited to present a range of exclusive packages that promise to elevate the guest experience. Known for their strategic locations near key establishments and exceptional service, Go Hotels caters to all types of travelers. Whether for romantic getaways or business trips, the hotel’s curated packages offer unique experiences for everyone.
CHARM: Inner and outer beauty in harmony
BEAUTY, as the popular quote says, is in the eye of the beholder.
While this may sound true, the standards of beauty have changed over the years. In this digital age, external appearance or aesthetics has become readily available and accessible. But true beauty lies in the harmony between physical and external appearance, captivating an aura that goes beyond what meets the eye.
This is what CHARM By DR. JOEL LOPEZ, MD advocates by offering comprehensive wellness.
“CHARM stands for Center for Healthy Aging and Regenerative Medicine,” explained CHARM Chief Executive Officer and Medical Director Dr. Joel Lopez during the grand launching held at the South Wing Atrium, Greenhills Mall last July 31.
“We are dedicated to helping you embrace the beauty of healthy aging and regenerative medicine. Our approach combines the art of aesthetic enhancement with the science of rejuvenation.”
The event was attended by Mayor Francis Zamora and Vice Mayor Angelo Agcaoili of San Juan. Also spotted were Carmi Martin, Cory Quirino, Kata Inocencio, among others.
Dr. Lopez demonstrated OligoScan to the public. This is a revolutionary method for testing mineral status and potential heavy metal toxicity. He also talked about healthy aging, living your best life as you grow older. It encompasses maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being while adapting to the natural changes that occur with age.
“At Go Hotels, we are dedicated to providing our guests with personalized experiences that cater to their diverse interests and needs,” said Ms. Roselle Reyes, RAHC Director of Sales and Marketing. “These perks are thoughtfully designed to ensure every guest leaves with cherished memories and a desire to return.”
Go Hotels offers a special promotion for concert-goers, providing a 20% discount on stays. Guests can avail of this discount by using the code “GOCON-
CERT” and presenting a valid concert ticket at selected RAHC-Go Hotels Manila properties. Additionally, the Go 24/7 Flexi Rate addresses the need for flexibility in today’s fast-paced world. This allows guests to check in at any hour and enjoy a full 24-hour stay, maximizing their time and comfort. Whether for business trips, spontaneous getaways, or simply unwinding without time pressure, Go Hotels’ Manila properties ensure a convenient and comfortable experience.
Marko Kasic, a British philanthropist and founder of FundLife, a leading non-governmental organization established to rebuild communities devastated by Super Typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban City, has completed a 600-kilometer running challenge across
We hope that by showcasing our passion for education and sports, we might inspire others in power to move with us,” he added. For Kasic, this run was also a campaign to influence decision-makers in the business world to approach charity projects with a sustainable mindset, ensuring lasting social impact.
THE Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) continues to facilitate the distribution of aid to supported social housing communities affected by “Super Typhoon “Carina” and the southwest monsoon in recent days. SHFC is a Key Shelter Agency under the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) that implements the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program, the flagship initiative of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. SHFC President and CEO Federico Laxa, in leading the relief operations in Barangay Tonsuya, Malabon City, noted that they were
committed to support its communities “in these challenging times and in aiding their recovery and resilience-building efforts Food packs were initially distributed to more than 320 families from the Letre Homeowners’ Association, Inc. Phase 1, a housing project of SHFC under the Community Mortgage Program. Accompanying Mr. Laxa were SHFC Executive Vice President Atty. Junefe Payot, Accounts Management Group Senior Vice President Josefina Banglagan, and Resettlement Services Group Vice President Bob Flores. Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval and former Representa-
FELIZ Hotel Boracay and Enderun Hotels have renewed their partnership for another five years through a new hotel management contract signed on July 23, 2024, at the MBC Media Group Headquarters. The agreement aims to solidify their position as leaders in the hospitality industry. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Jun Nicdao, Chairman of MBC Media Group, and Chef Thomas Wenger, Senior Vice President of Enderun Hotels.
The hotel, renowned for its deluxe accom-
tive Federico “Ricky” Sandoval also attended the relief distribution. To date, SHFC has extended relief efforts to about 5,000 families affected by the typhoon in its Metro Manila and Central Luzon housing projects. It aims to assist as many as 10,000 families in calamity-hit areas, including Quezon City, Marikina, Pampanga, and Bataan. The relief assistance includes rice, canned goods, and other ready-to-eat food. It also includes soap and basic medicine to ensure that families can maintain proper hygiene and address minor health concerns.
modations in Station 2, Boracay, features an 80room
SHFC President and CEO Federico Laxa distributes food packs in Malabon.
Marko Kasic (right), founder of FundLife, completes a 600-km run across Luzon to support rebuilding efforts for communities affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban City
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO,
Retail chain launches
TikTok challenge with Flow G
PUREGOLD is stepping up its exciting P-Pop and OPM partnership with a new TikTok challenge featuring rapstar Flow G. Fans of Flow G who enjoyed his hit single “Nasa Atin Ang Panalo” can now join in on this special moment in OPM history and win exclusive prizes.
The Puregold #PanaloNaWalangHalo TikTok Challenge invites fans to try out Flow G-themed dance moves throughout the month. Winners will be chosen every week until Aug. 30.
To join the contest, fans must have a TikTok account and follow the official Puregold TikTok page, @puregoldph. Once that’s done, they must record their performance while using the Nasa Atin ang Panalo Hand Choreo filter on TikTok. Each participant must showcase their best hand moves and choreography in their video entries to accompany Flow G’s “Nasa Atin ang Panalo” single. These must be posted on TikTok with captions that include the hashtags #PuregoldNasaAtinAngPanalo, #PuregoldxFlowG, and #PanaloNaWalangHalo.
Every week, ten participants will be selected, with each winning a complete set of Nasa Atin ang Panalo merchandise. This includes an exclusive t-shirt, canvas bag, and a karaoke box.
Given the sheer scale of this Puregold collaboration, with Flow G, BINI, SunKissed Lola, and SB19 leading the way, this is a can’tmiss opportunity for fans looking to own a piece of the Nasa Atin Ang Panalo collab for themselves.
Moreover, following the great reception from Flow G’s heartfelt and uplifting bars on his Nasa Atin Ang Panalo single, this contest is a perfect way for fans to demonstrate what the single and overarching collaboration means to them. In line with Flow G’s lyrics, this TikTok challenge will spur fans to express how their own experiences led them to believe in themselves, to take chances, and acknowledge the fact that all challenges can be overcome.
“We hope Flow G’s music will continue to be an inspiration to all,” said Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad “All of us at Puregold look forward to seeing the talent and creativity on display through this TikTok challenge.”
By Nickie Wang
ANGELI Khang and Robb Guinto express their hope that other Vivamax stars will have opportunities to crossover into mainstream cinema, following their success with the film Unang Tikim. This movie is Vivamax’s latest release and marks the platform’s first title to be screened in commercial theaters nationwide.
‘Encantadia’
Angeli, who has also ventured into television with a role in GMA’s Black Rider shared her amazement at their achievements.
“It’s hard to believe that after our hard work, we’re here now and are allowed to reach a wider audience on the big screen,” Angeli said. “Vivamax has its own dedicated audience, but being on the big screen offers an entirely different experience for actors aspiring to make it big in showbiz. We are truly thankful.”
In an interview with Manila
Standard Entertainment , Angeli and Robb discussed the challenges of performing intimate scenes. They revealed
returns to Viu Philippines
Philippines and enjoy the fantasy drama from Aug. 12.
SHOWBIZ
Angeli Khang, Robb Guinto strip down in Vivamax’s ‘Unang Tikim
that while the scenes were new and challenging, they navigated them smoothly due to their strong friendship.
“We’re friends and can easily discuss how we’d approach the intimate scenes,” Robb noted.
Angeli added that she feels more comfortable performing sexy scenes with another woman.
“It’s easier to communicate our boundaries and limitations, and since we’re both women, it feels natural to discuss these things openly,” she explained.
In Unang Tikim , Angeli is Yuna and Robb is Becca. The two are madly in love with each other. They are each other’s first—first touch, first
kiss, first sexual experience. It seems like nothing can break them apart until Becca is forced to migrate to the U.S. to be with her family.
Between the two, Becca is the lipstick lesbian. She’s also an artist and an introvert. When she loves, she gives her all. Meanwhile, Yuna is bisexual. She looks innocent but is aggressive when it comes to lovemaking. She is generally supportive and caring to people she loves, but it turns out that she cannot stand a longdistance relationship.
Nicco ( Matt Francisco ), Yuna’s boss, likes her so much and makes a way to get close to her while she is in a longdistance relationship with Becca. He eventually wins her heart when the girlfriends mutually decide to break up. Four years later, Yuna is now engaged to be married to Nicco. Becca, now a professional photographer in the U.S., returns to the Philippines to complete her dream photo exhibit. She has a new lover, Trisha ( Christy Imperial ). Destiny makes their paths cross again, and both realize that they are still in love with each other. Unang Tikim , directed by Roman Perez Jr. , also stars Susan Africa . The film premieres today in cinemas nationwide.
THE popular 2016 series Encantadia is back on Viu Philippines starting Aug. 12. The show stars Marian Rivera as Ynang Reyna Mine-a, Glaiza de Castro as Pirena, Sanya Lopez as Danaya, Gabbi Garcia as Alena, Kylie Padilla as Amihan, and John Arcilla as Hagorn. Set in the magical land of Encantadia, the series features four royal sisters, called Sang’gres, who each protect a gemstone representing fire, air, water, and earth. Although the sisters are close, a conflict arises when Pirena’s desire for power causes trouble. Her father, Hagorn, a dark sorcerer, plans to use the gemstones to take over Encantadia.
Viewers can watch Encantadia for free on Viu
Rapper Flow G is one of the OPM artists collaborating with retail chain Puregold
Hit fantasy series
‘Encantadia’ features four royal sisters who each protect a gemstone representing an element
‘Unang Tikim’ serves as the first film by Vivamax with a theatrical release
Angeli Khang (left) and Robb Guinto stars as lovers in Roman Perez Jr.’s ‘Unang Tikim’
Robb Guinto plays Becca in ‘Unang Tikim’
Angeli Khang stars in ‘Unang Tikim’ as Yuna
A Cebuano chef’s journey to finding his passion for food
By Abigail Adriatico
BEING a person who works within the food industry is not an easy feat. With the fast-moving atmosphere demanding a sharp wit that also the finest attention to detail, a culinary chef holds no room for failure.
As the culinary world often needs a passionate heart to help in powering through the pressures of the kitchen, it would come as a surprise that the executive chef of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown Coke Semblante had a different dream for himself when he was younger.
“At first, I didn’t like this kind of career. I was a frustrated basketball player,” said Semblante in an exclusive interview with Manila Standard Life during the media luncheon for Savoy Hotel Manila’s Cebu Food Festival.
The executive chef further shared that he shifted his career focus to the hotel and restaurant industry as it was the program offered to him in college. While studying, he began to work at a fast food kitchen until he eventually graduated.
After receiving his diploma, Semblante began working at a hotel as a line cook. In 2003, he decided to apply for a job abroad and got accepted as a chef in the US and later, the UK, before coming back to the Philippines in 2010 as a sous chef in a resort in Palawan.
In the years that he spent in the kitchen, Semblante eventually realized that cooking had now been his passion. With some of his specialty dishes hailing from the Cebuano cuisine, Semblante shared that he had a fondness for such food as it was what he had grown up tasting even at a young age.
mountains, so we have food from both sea and land,” said Semblante, adding that the diverse sweet and savory flavor profiles of Cebuano cuisine are influenced by Chinese, Spanish, Mexican, Mindanaoan, Malaysian, and South American tastes.
With Savoy Hotel Manila conducting a sequel to its heritage culinary event last March which revolved around the Ilonggo cuisine, Semblante’s specialty dishes from the Cebuano cuisine take centerstage at their Cebu Food Festival which initially began from July 22 to 28 before later being extended to Aug. 11 due to popular demand.
Guests will be able to have a taste of dishes such as the Humba, Balbacua, Manok sa Kawayan, Linarang, Monggo with Chicharon, and many more as Semblante collaborates with Savoy Hotel Manila’s executive chef Kit Carpio. They can also try out the PungkoPungko basket which serves as an homage to the street food experience in Cebu.
JAPANESE conductor Yoshinao Osawa returns to the Philippine stage and once again conducts the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra in a special concert titled Nostalgia: Music from Movie Musicals and More! This special concert at the Aliw Theater is happening on Aug. 10 at 3:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
With a program that evokes sentimentality and wistful affection, the concert will transport the audience to different worlds and moments, promising bittersweet nostalgia and aweinspiring music.
This special concert features a diverse music repertoire incorporating bittersweet nostalgia that transports listeners to different worlds and eras, promising a performance filled with a mix of happiness and melancholy.
Born in the 1950s and hailing from Tokyo, Japan, Maestro Yoshinao Osawa, studied at the Hideo Saito Conducting class at Toho Gakuen School of Music.
In 1974, he relocated to Melbourne, Australia, and started his career as a conductor. Through the help and support of the Meyer Foundation, Osawa studied as a young conductor and was named the permanent conductor of the Frankston Symphony Orchestra within the same year.
“Cebuano cuisine is diverse because we are surrounded by bodies of water and have
Ayala Museum opens Geneva Conventions Group Exhibition
By Abigail Adriatico
THE Ayala Museum is set to open a group exhibition in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions of 1949. Taking place at the ArtistSpace gallery in the museum, the exhibition will feature various historical photos from the time of the Geneva Conventions, which were landmark agreements that established the humanitarian rules of war. The photos showcased in the exhibit will not be available for sale. The exhibition is presented through a partnership between the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Embassy of Switzerland in the Philippines. It will run until Aug. 14 and is open to the public for free
The Cebu Food Festival serves as a collaboration between the general managers of Savoy Hotel Manila, Den Navarro, and Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown Josef Chiongbian.
Since 1975, he has held the position of conductor for both the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music Symphony Orchestra and the State Orchestra of Victoria
For inquiries and table reservations, guests can call +63253172817 or send an email to dine@ savoymanila.com.
In 1976, he assumed the role of Music Director of the Singapore Philharmonic Orchestra, and the following year, he became Honorary Guest Conductor of the Daegu Symphony Orchestra in Korea. By 1978, he was named Principal Guest Conductor of the Taiwan Pro-Art Symphony Orchestra
From 1976 until 1983, Osawa was the conductor for the CCP Philharmonic Orchestra (now PPO), Manila Symphony Orchestra and the Metro Manila Symphony Orchestra In 1984, he was appointed Principal Conductor of the Nissan Dream Concerts. From that point onward, he has led numerous orchestras across Japan, such as the New Japan Philharmonic, Tokyo Philharmonic, Tokyo City Philharmonic, Sapporo Symphony Orchestra, Nagoya Philharmonic, Osaka Philharmonic, Kyushu Symphony Orchestra, and Hiroshima Symphony Orchestra , among others.
In 1990, he began conducting the National Presidential Symphony Orchestra of Turkey, including its overseas tours. By 1996, he had been appointed Honorary Conductor of the National Izmir Symphony Orchestra of Turkey , a role he continues to hold. By 2001, he was designated as the Music
Director for Life of the Yoshida Kinen Orchestra of Tokyo , which he remains to occupy. For more information,
Yoshinao Osawa is a renowned conductor hailing from Tokyo, Japan
Osawa was the conductor of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra from 1976 to 1983
The exhibition is part of the celebration for the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions of 1949
From left: Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown general manager Josef Chongbian, Savoy Hotel Manila executive chef Kit Carpio, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown executive chef Coke Semblante, and Savoy Hotel Manila
Chef Coke Semblante has been the executive chef of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown since 2023
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2024
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
LJ Pearls’ features a baroque pearl necklace and earrings with gold accents as well as a triple freshwater pearl ring and charm bracelets with freshwater pearls bearing multiple colors
The timeless elegance of nature’s gem
Very Wang
Nickie Wang
WHAT makes pearls so special?
Although classified as gemstones, pearls are unique because they are the only gems formed and found within living creatures. It often takes hundreds of oysters or mussels to find just one wild pearl. And for centuries, this was the only method for obtaining naturally formed pearls, making them both rare and extraordinarily unique
Historically, pearls were highly sought after by royalty and aristocrats as they symbolize wealth and sophistication. Early depictions of royalty often feature pearl accessories as a mark of their status.
Today, pearls have a broad appeal, complementing both classic and modern styles, and are suitable for everyday wear or special occasions.
The Philippines, often called “Perlas ng Silangan” (Pearl of the Orient), embodies the qualities of pearls. And at Kultura, this symbol of Filipino values and cultural pride is well celebrated.
The brand proudly offers authentic Philippine pearls, including Freshwater pearls with their unique shapes and textures, Tahitian pearls known for their dark natural color, Baroque pearls with irregular shapes, and South Sea pearls, the largest and most valuable pearls available today.
As part of its 20th Anniversary Celebration, Kultura is also thrilled to launch its latest pearl campaign featuring actress Marian Rivera
Here are some of Kultura’s top picks from the new collection:
Khai Pearls offers confidence with pearl and gemstone jewelry, featuring semi-precious stones around a beautiful freshwater pearl. Make a bold statement with their baroque freshwater pearl pieces in simple layers. For a unique look, mix and match Tahitian, Freshwater, and South Sea pearls in different sizes and shades.
Glynyz adds glamour with two-toned accessories that look best when layered with similar pieces in matching colors. If you like contemporary styles, check out their gypsy chic designs, including a freshwater baroque pearl necklace with beads, a multi-row freshwater pearl necklace, a paperclip link bracelet with a South Sea pearl charm, and a set of triple-wire freshwater pearl bracelets. Aurea shines with the golden South Sea pearls. The Marian collection has two layers of South Sea pearl necklaces, a South Sea pearl bracelet, and dangling earrings, all in gold. For a sophisticated touch, play with necklace lengths for an elegant look.
Style your modern Filipiniana outfit with Aurea Pearl’s multicolored South Sea baroque pearl necklaces, featuring a mix of
By Abigail Adriatico
IN CELEBRATION of its 170th anniversary, Tanduay Distillers Inc. will bring back the Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival for its fourth year in collaboration with the city of Bacolod. Serving as a jam-packed celebration filled with food, music, and competitions, the festival is one of the most highly anticipated events in the city province.
Kicking off the nine-day festival on Aug. 10 is a motorcade followed by a ceremony that will see the official opening of The Food Park at the Bacolod City Government Center Complex. For the rest of the festival, a Rum and Music Night will be held at The Food Park.
On Aug. 12, the elimination round of the
The multi-colored South Sea baroque necklace can also be worn as a bracelet
white, champagne, and gold.
LJ Pearls adds spice with a long necklace and earrings in baroque pearls with gold accents. Complete your look with a triple freshwater pearl ring and layers of charm bracelets with multicolored freshwater pearls.
A-M Pearls shows that you can never go wrong with white pearls. The Marian collection has three layers of all-white pearl necklaces, with freshwater pearls ranging from 5 mm to 11 mm. Complete the look with a freshwater pearl necklace wrapped as a bracelet on one wrist and a stack of four freshwater pearl bracelets with baroque pearl accents on the other wrist.
Bacolod Rum Festival honors Tanduay’s 170th year
Mixology & Flairtending Competition will be conducted at the Activity Center in Ayala Malls Capitol Central. A Culinaria Competition will be held in participating restaurants on Aug. 14 and 15. With Aug. 16 serving as Rum Education Day, a Distillery Tour will commence at the Tanduay Manufacturing Plant in Murcia while a Rum Masterclass and the grand finals of the Mixology & Flairtending Competition will be held at the Seda Capitol Central.
Serving as the most eventful day of the festival, Aug. 17 will see the motorcade of Tanduay Ambassadors and other special guests along with the Parade and Street Dance competitions. There will also be a thanksgiving dinner, a festival concert, an awarding ceremony for the winners of the competitions, and an after-party. The
To view our latest pearl collection, find your nearest branch at http://bit.ly/KulturaStores or shop online at www. kulturafilipino.com.
the
The Tanduay Bacolod Rum Festival will run from Aug. 10 until Aug 18.
From left: Tanduay Distillers Inc. Digital Brand Manager Edzel Ty, Bacolod City Councilor Em Ang, and Bacolod City Chief Tourism Operations Officer Ma. Teresa Manalili
Tanduay Distillers Inc. President and CEO Lucio Tan III shares
notable milestone of the brand Bacolod City Councilor Em Ang shares the contribution of the festival to Bacolod’s tourism
The collection also features Aurea’s golden South Sea pearls set complete with a necklace, bracelet, and pearl dangling earrings
The semi-round South Sea pearl necklace can be partnered with