Manila Standard - 2024 August 8 - Thursday

China, Quad flex muscles in SCS

Beijing tests strike strength; Manila, allies hold joint drills

By Rachelle Tonelada and Rex Espiritu

CHINA carried out a combat patrol to test "strike capabilities" near a flashpoint reef in the South China Sea on Wednesday as the the Philippines launched two days of joint sea and air exercises with the United States, Canada and Australia in the same waters.

Tensions in the disputed waterway have spiked following a series of escalating confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels that have fanned fears of a wider conflict that could draw in Washington due to its mutual defense treaty with Manila. Beijing said the maneuvers tested "the reconnaissance and early warning, rapid mobility, and joint strike capabilities of theater troops."

Separately, the Chinese Coast Guard also conducted a patrol on Wednesday to "uphold its rights" around another group of disputed islands in the East China Sea that are administered by Japan, Beijing's state media said. Manila, on the other hand, said the multilateral drills were taking place west of Palawan, south of Scarborough Shoal and the nearest major landmass to the also-contested Spratly Islands.

Speaker vows to scrutinize irrigation funds in ‘25 budget

By Maricel V. Cruz

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez today said the House will thoroughly scrutinize the proposed P6.352 trillion National Expenditure Program for 2025, particularly the specific allocations meant to further

By Darwin G. Amojelar

strengthen the country’s irrigation systems.

According to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the government has allocated P42 billion for 2025 to improve the irrigation system in the country.

By Macon Ramos-Araneta, Rio N. Araja and Miguel Gil

PRESIDENT Ferdinand on Wednesday rejected proposals to delay the implementation of the nationwide Public Transport Modernization Pro-

House ‘mega’ panel to invite Digong, Bato

By Maricel V. Cruz and Pot Chavez

THE House of Representatives has consolidated four separate committees investigating Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs), Chinese crime syndicates, the narcotics trade, and extrajudicial killings during the previous administration into a singular panel called the “Quad Comm.” Lawmakers apparently made this decision after realizing there was a common thread tying all those issues together – the Duterte administration.

The four committees’ chairmen – Rep. Robert Ace Barbers of the

gram (PTMP), citing that a majority of around 80 percent among PUV operators are already complying with the program.

“I disagree with them because they said this was rushed. This has been postponed seven times. The modernization has been postponed for seven

By Riera U. Mallari

Properties to give P6m

By Rachelle Tonelada and Maricel V. Cruz

times and those that have been objecting or have been crying out and asking for suspension are in the minority,” the President said.

“Some 80 percent have already consolidated, so will we allow the 20 percent to decide on the life of the 100

THE elusive Vice President Sara Duterte sought to rally supporters in Mindanao into resisting the supposed interference of foreign entities as she took a swing at the incumbent Philippine leadership. In a statement on Wednesday, Duterte said the Philippines deserves government officials who are ready to serve the public, fight

QUAD EXERCISE. The Philippines, US, Australia, and Canada yesterday began a two-day multilateral maritime cooperative activity (MCCA) in the West Philippine Sea. Participating in the exercises are (from left to right) the HMCS Montreal (FFH336), BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16), USS Lake Erie (CG70) and the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150). PAOAFP

PARIS—With the golden double of ace gymnast Carlos Edrei Yulo and a bronze by boxer Aira Villegas, the Philippines now ranks 23d in the 2024 Paris Olympics medal standings.

PAPAL AUDIENCE. Pope Francis meets with a group of Mexican dressed as Aztecs (Tonatiuh) during a weekly general audience on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Paul-VI hall in The Vatican. AFP

Marcos approves sovereign guarantee for social housing

By Vince Lopez

THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for approving the issuance of sovereign guarantee for shelter projects under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) program.

In a press briefing held in Malacañan Palace on Wednesday, DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said the President’s nod is a “gamechanger” as it would address homelessness in the Philippines.

“We at DHSUD, including the key shelter agencies, are very grateful to the dear President, to our economic managers for their support. I am op-

China,...

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Among the vessels deployed by the four powers were the guided missile cruiser USS Lake Erie and a Philippine guided missile frigate and patrol ship, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said.

"Australia, Canada, the Philippines and the United States uphold the right to freedom of navigation and overflight, other lawful uses of the sea and international airspace, as well as respect for maritime rights under international law, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea,” the AFP said.

AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner said the exercise "underscores the commitment of our nations to ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region," adding it would also "enhance our collective capabilities."

China has long used its coastguard to assert its claims in the South China

Marcos...

From A1 percent. We should listen to the majority, and the majority is saying we should push through with this,” he added.

Last week, 22 senators filed a resolution calling for the temporary suspension of the PTMP (formerly called the PUVMP) due to concerns about its supposed unplanned and rushed implementation.

Senate Resolution No. 1096 noted the fears of drivers and transport op-

VP...

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interference, particularly from the International Criminal Court (ICC).

“However, the Philippines today is being led by individuals who have no right to serve in their sworn offices. So, what prevails today is fear for our future and our children,” she lamented in Filipino.

Duterte also decried inadequacies in government plans, particularly regarding disaster response, infrastructure, and flood control.

Furthermore, she accused lawmakers of wasting their time with irrelevant issues when should focused on addressing the police-to-population ratio shortage by leveraging technology. She stressed that such officials cannot address or understand the needs of Filipinos, especially on relevant issues

Philippines...

From A1 and 31 bronzes, followed by the Peoples' Republic of China with 22 golds, 22 silvers, and 16 bronzes. At third place is Australia, with 14 golds, 12 silvers, and 10 bronzes.

Host France is at fourth, with 13 golds, 16 silvers, and 19 bronzes, followed closely at 5th by Great Britain with 12 golds, 15 silvers, and 19 bronzes. (For the full list, please log in at www. manilastandard.net.) When Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Nesthy Petecio steps out of the ring Thursday morning Manila time, the Philippines medal count would increase by one. If she moves on to fight for the gold, it would surely the country's standings. Still waiting in the wings to get a chance for Olympic glory are weight-

timistic that this guarantee will make the difference in our quest to finally address homelessness in the country,” Acuzar said.

“This guarantee is another solid testament of our President's commitment to uplift the lives of all Filipinos by providing decent yet affordable shelters through a whole-of-nation approach. Through this, we will accelerate the advancement

Sea, which analysts describe as "grey zone" harassment tactics that fall short of an outright act of war.

And while the Chinese military had been deployed near Scarborough Shoal in the past, one analyst told AFP Wednesday's action showed they were "becoming more aggressive and forceful."

"It's meant to intimidate," Jay Batongbacal, director of the Manilabased Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, said.

"It's definitely meant to send a message, a show of force," he added.

Duan Dang, a Vietnam-based maritime security analyst, said the fact China had specifically mentioned the shoal showed its "mounting dissatisfaction with Manila's recent collaborative efforts with its allies and partners."

Beijing's use of combat patrols in retaliation, he said, "suggests that the Philippines has now become China's second most-targeted adversary, trailing only Taiwan” – the self-ruled island Beijing claims as its own.

Three Chinese PLA Navy vessels

erators to be directly affected by the program, particularly issues related to consolidation into cooperatives.

According to data from the Department of Transportation, the consolidation rate under the program already reached 83.38 percent, with the Office of Transport Cooperatives accrediting 1,781 cooperatives with 262,870 members.

The government is now completing the Local Public Transportation Route Plan (LPTRP) or route rationalization component which will determine the number of PUV units to serve a particular route.

of security and healthcare.

The VP asserted that the country's sovereignty should be at the primacy of its policies and should its leadership should "stand against foreign interference," including the ICC.

“We are tires of seeing our country being left behind, being treated like we have no value… subservient to other races. We, Filipinos, deserve more than what we are hearing and seeing from the government right now. We, Filipinos, deserve better,” she concluded.

The Office of the Vice President released this statement online even as it remained mum about Duterte’s present whereabouts or when she intends to return to the Philippines.

Meanwhile, a Mindanao lawmaker on Wednesday expressed disappointed over Duterte’s statement directed at the local Muslim community, calling it divisive and unconstructive.

lifters Vanessa Sarno, John Ceniza and Elreen Ando; and golfers Dottie Ardina and Bianca Pagdanganan.

In an interview before Petecio's match, coach Reynaldo Galido told the Standard that he likes what he sees.

“Parang tigre, gigil na gigil. Akala mo first time sa Olympics eh,” said Galido in amazement of his ward, who entered the Roland Garros ring at 3:46 a.m. (Thursday in the Philippines) against Poland’s Julia Szeremeta. While acknowledging the challenge posed by Szeremeta, Galido expressed confidence in Petecio's ability to advance.

"She's a different fighter now," Galido said.

If Petecio hurdles her Polish foe, a 2023 European Championships winner, a potential final showdown against topseeded Taiwanese Lin Yu Ting, who the Filipina beat in Tokyo, looms large.

of 4PH nationwide because our private partners have stronger confidence in the program,” he added.

Currently, there are 53 ongoing projects under 4PH, which are mainly funded by the private sector, Secretary Acuzar said.

This manifests strong government and private sector partnership in carrying out socialized housing, he said.

Through the sovereign guarantee, government financing institutions (GFIs) could extend developmental loans to the National Housing Authority (NHA) and Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) to construct 4PH projects, with the government assurance to expedite the loan evaluation process and housing production.

Through the End-User Financing Program, the Home Development Mu-

were spotted tailing the ongoing Quad drills, officially known as a Multilat

eral Maritime Cooperative Activity.

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 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.

Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea, brushing off rival claims of several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, and an international ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

Its claims include the waters around Scarborough Shoal or Bajo de Masinloc – which Beijing seized from Manila in 2012 – where the Chinese mili-

Senate President Francis Escudero, for his part, clarified that PUV operators and drivers who already complied will not be affected by their proposal to temporary suspend the program.

"We're not saying anything about canceling the program. What we are saying to those who haven't yet is to slow down until the assistance, financing, and plans are complete. And when it's complete, let's continue with the remainder. But those who have agreed, those who have already bought units, those who are already doing it, why

June...

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have led to these employment gains. Increasing investments in renewable energy, water supply, and mining and quarrying have also supported employment growth in these areas,” NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said.

In terms of magnitude, the PSA said the number of unemployed individuals in June 2024 was registered at 1.62 million, lower than the number of unemployed individuals in June 2023 at 2.33 million and in May 2024 at 2.11 million.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said the June unemployment rate matches the record low set in December 2023, marking the lowest unemployment rate

House...

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Committee on Dangerous Drugs, Rep. Bienvenido Abante of the Committee on Human Rights, Rep. Dan Fernandez of the Committee on Public Order and Safety, and Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano of the House Committee on Public Accounts, faced journalists for the first time on Wednesday as members of the consolidated panel.

During the press briefing, the Quad Comm members announced that they intend to invite former President Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Ronald dela Rosa, among others, to shed light on details of their drug war, the proliferation of POGOs, and other possibly interconnected matters.

“It is historic in the sense that this is the first time it’s going to happen

tual Fund (HDMF) or Pag-IBIG Fund shall take out the individual housing loan of beneficiaries.

Pag-IBIG shall then release the loan proceeds directly to the GFIs that granted the developmental loans. Upon payment to the GFIs, the loan obligation is fulfilled and the guarantee is extinguished.

Based on Pag-IBIG data, the cancellation rate of socialized housing loans is 9.11 percent.

However, the appreciation of property value could outpace the holding costs, such that Pag-IBIG still stands to gain upon resale of the property.

DHSUD said there is up to 1.2 million housing projects already in the pipeline.

The agency is eyeing up to 3.2 million housing units by 2028.

tary's Southern Theater Command said Wednesday it had held joint sea and air patrols.

The triangular chain of reefs and rocks is 240 kilometers (150 miles) west of the Philippines' main island of Luzon and nearly 900 kilometers from the nearest major Chinese land mass of Hainan.

Recent clashes between Philippine and Chinese vessels have focused on Ayungin Shoal where a handful of Filipino troops are stationed on a navy vessel that Manila deliberately grounded on the reef in 1999 to assert its claims to the area.

One of the most serious incidents took place in June, when Chinese sailors brandishing weapons including knives and an axe boarded Philippine naval vessels during a resupply mission to the strategic reef.

The Philippine military said one of its sailors lost a thumb in the confrontation in which Beijing's coast guard also confiscated or destroyed Philippine equipment, including guns. With AFP

not?" the Senate President said.

"No one said that we are against modernization itself. We just want it to be implemented properly and faithfully according to the intention of modernization itself," he added.

Escudero also emphasized the resolution is just a "sense of the Senate."

“It only serves as a reminder to the executive branch and that is how the relationship between the executive and legislative should be," Escudero said, noting it as a showcase of "separation of powers in different divisions of government."

in nearly two decades.

Employment rate, on the other hand, was posted at 96.9 percent. This was higher than the employment rate estimated in June 2023 at 95.5 percent and in May 2024 at 95.9 percent.

In terms of level, the number of employed persons in June 2024 was recorded at 50.28 million. This was higher than the number of employed persons of 48.84 million in June 2023 and 48.87 million in May 2024.

In terms of magnitude, the Philippines recorded 50.3 million employed individuals, with the services sector leading in employment, accounting for 58.7 percent of the total employed population.

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto, on the other hand, expressed optimism on achieving the administration’s ultimate goal of reducing the poverty rate to a single-digit or 9% by 2028.

because there are urgent national issues that the House of Representatives is presently and currently addressing in the four committees that we are conducting hearings on,” Barbers said in a mix of English and Filipino.

“We will invite the former President to enlighten us on the issue of the War on Drugs. Maybe he can shed some information that would be of help in the writing of the committee report, especially on the remedial legislation that we plan to be its product," he added.

For his part, Abante said there are many questions by committee members that only Duterte can answer.

As this developed, former senator Antonio Trillanes IV filed before the Department of Justice (DOJ) another plunder charge against former President Rodrigo Duterte, Senator Bong Go, former Navy chief Admiral Robert Empedrad, and others.

Housing agency distributes aid to ‘Carina’ victims

THE Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) said it will continue the distribution of aid to supported social housing communities affected by Super Typhoon “Carina” and the southwest monsoon.

The SHFC is a 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 the relief operations in Barangay Tonsuya, Malabon City, noted that the agency is committed to support communities “in these challenging times and in aiding their recovery and resilience-building efforts 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.

The initiative aligns with the directive of DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar to provide comprehensive assistance to families affected by the recent weather disturbances. This effort supports President Marcos, Jr.’s call for all government agencies to aid calamity-stricken areas.

Boost digital infra in schools to raise critical thinking

THE country’s leading think tank is calling on the government to boost digital connectivity in schools across the country to improve students’ critical thinking skills.

“The start of another school year is upon us, and aside from the usual problems of providing basic school facilities for our public school students, we must address the lack of critical thinking skills that would allow them to navigate the challenges of the real world,” said Professor Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, president of The Stratbase ADR Institute.

“We want our learners to be capable of critical thinking so that they can analyze information and distinguish the real from the fake, form their opinions from sound and logical arguments, solve problems, and make evidence-based decisions in different aspects of their lives.” But critical thinking will not be achieved without the foundational skills obtained from the areas of math, science and reading, he warned.

Speaker...

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“The proposed P42 billion allocation for irrigation is a testament to our dedication to improving agricultural productivity. By ensuring that our farmers have access to adequate water resources, we can significantly increase crop yields and boost their income,” Romualdez said.

“The House of Representatives will conduct a detailed review of the proposed budget to ensure that the funds are utilized effectively and efficiently,” Romualdez said.

The Speaker also reaffirmed the unwavering support of the House of Representatives for the initiatives of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. aimed at enhancing the productivity of Filipino farmers.

This developed after the Speaker accompanied President Marcos, Jr. at the turnover of 148 newly-acquired heavy equipment with an aggregate cost of P782 million for the National Irrigation Administration at Construction City in Mexico, Pampanga Wednesday morning.

The acquisition of new excavators, trailer trucks, and dumpers, is the 2nd tranche of NIA’s 3-Year Refleeting Program and would be used in the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems nationwide to help boost the productivity of Filipino farmers.

“The House of Representatives stands firmly behind President Marcos Jr.’s vision of a more productive and resilient agricultural sector. Our farmers are the backbone of our nation, and it is our duty to provide them with the necessary support to thrive,” said Romualdez.

EDCOM says bullying still a problem

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) said the monitoring of bullying of students inside the school campus continues to pose a challenge to teachers.

EDCOM 2 said bullying remains prevalent despite anti-bullying policies, such as Social and Emotional Learning, which are “embedded” in the MATATAG curriculum of the Department of Education (DepEd).

EDCOM 2 spelled out the factors of this challenge, including the high teacher-student ratio, difficulty in curriculum implementation, and the mismatch between teachers’ training and their assigned subjects.

Although there is a curriculum document, EDCOM 2 Standing Committee for Basic Education member and De La Salle University Prof. Dr. Allan Bernardo cited the need to know what is actually happening in the classroom.

“How do you know that the documents you develop are actually being implemented?” Bernardo said.

He noted they have a gap in the monitoring due to many layers.

“We’re not really confident as to how it was really delivered in the classroom,” Carmencita Aguas, Senior Education Program Specialist at the DepEd, said.

Jona Kristen Valdez, DepEd Senior Education Specialist, mentioned efforts to integrate SEL anti-bullying, and rights-based education lessons into the MATATAG curriculum.

LTO NCR posts 2.7% earnings rise

By Rio N. Araja

THE Land Transportation Office-National Capital Region on Wednesday said its revenue collection for the first half of 2024 rose by 2.7 percent compared to the same period in 2023, reaching P4.67 million.

Annabelle Quevedo, Financial Management Division chief, reported that the agency has exceeded the first half of the previous year’s revenue collection of P4,55 million. She credited the increase to strong

Cops rescue Vietnamese tourist in Parañaque City

By Joel E. Zurbano

A 23-YEAR-OLD Vietnamese tourist was rescued by police after being kidnapped in Parañaque City.

Three Chinese nationals, identified as Jun (31), Hao (27), and Zhang (26), were arrested in connection with the kidnapping.

During the operation, the police seized three handguns and ammunition, P236,000 cash, electronic devices, seven mobile phones, foreign passports, a set of car license plates (CBP7996), a black Ford Ranger Sport, 76 ecstasy tablets worth P129,200.00, and five grams of shabu valued at P34,000. Investigation showed that the victim was engaged in a money exchange service business in Manila, catering to Chinese nationals and other foreigners.

collections in January, February, April and May comprising 70.80 percent of the total revenues, or the equivalent amount of P3.22 billion. The bulk of the collections came from registration and licensing with revenues amounting to P4.14 billion and P475 million, respectively. The Law Enforcement and Traffic Adjudication System contributed P49,481,080.00, while the Motor Vehicle

LOWPRESSURE AREA.

A staff of the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (QCDRRMO) monitors the current position of a low-pressure area over the northern Philippine Sea. PAGASA announced on Wednesday that two low-pressure systems have consolidated into a single weather disturbance. Manny Palmero

Inspection Center added P8.4 million. Regional director Roque Verzosa III vowed to maintain revenue growth for the second half of the year.

“We appreciate and acknowledge the efforts of all LTO-NCR employees who have contributed to the growth of our revenue collection in the first half of the year. Rest assured, we will strive harder to maintain our revenue growth for the second half of 2024,” he said.

IN BRIEF

CHR hails Estrada for bill on out-of-school youths

THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday lauded Senator Jinggoy Estrada for filing Senate Bill No. 2633 or An Act Providing for the Magna Carta of the Out-of-School Youth to recognize, protect, and promote the rights of out-of-school youth.

The proposed measure aims to empower and encourage children unable to attend school to contribute to nationbuilding by providing them with learning and employment opportunities, social services and interventions.

Out-of-school youth included those aged 15 to 30 who are not enrolled in school, lack employment and have not graduated from high school or college.

“The Commission recognizes Senator Estrada’s initiative in introducing this bill which aims to address the vulnerabilities of the out-of-school youth sector. We urge the passage of SB 2633 as it will pave the way for the empowerment of young Filipinos. We believe that this legislation is crucial for creating a society where all youth, including those not in school, have equal opportunities to succeed,” the CHR cited. Rio N. Araja

Airport janitress finds fetus in NAIA Terminal 1 restroom

A FETUS was discovered in a restroom at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1.

Aboitiz-backed program produces new graduates

By Jessica M. Bacud

SANTIAGO City—Another round of scholars for the academic year 2023–2024 graduated recently from SN Aboitiz Power’s (SNAP) Bridging Gaps in Higher Education via Tertiary Scholarships (BRIGHTS) program. Two graduates obtained honorable mentions and five graduates with Latin honors among the eleven graduates. Throughout July and August, SNAP’s host towns in Ifugao, Isabela, and Benguet hosted commencement celebrations at their respective schools.

SNAP president and CEO Joseph Yu said, “We are immensely proud of our scholars and their achievements. We believe they are tomorrow’s innovators and change-makers; through them, we hope to realize our vision of a better and sustainable Philippines in the future.”

The abductors used her phone password and facial ID to access her online bank account, transferring her money to another unknown account, amounting to 8,940,000,000 (Vietnamese Dong), equivalent to 20 million in Philippine peso. They also took P300,000 in cash and several pieces of jewelry worth P1 million from her condominium in Pasay City.

On Tuesday, Aug. 6, she was contacted by suspect Zhang to exchange Vietnamese Dong for Philippine peso at a condominium in Barangay Tambo. However, upon arrival, the suspects abducted her at knifepoint and with firearms, taking her mobile phones, including the one with her online bank account.

The Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP - Avsegroup) reported that last Tuesday, a janitress was cleaning the female restroom at the east departure area of the terminal when she saw a bloodstained napkin in a garbage can, covering a fetus.

Members of the Manila International Airport Authority Police Department and the MIAA Medical Team headed by Dr. Donita Arnesto responded to the scene and confirmed that the content of the napkin was a one-month-old fetus.

The MIAA police department turned over the fetus to NAIA Police Station 1 for appropriate action and disposition, while members of the PNP Scene of the Crime Operation (SOCO) also responded to conduct a forensic investigation. Joel E. Zurbano

AFP reaffirms commitment to global humanitarian law

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to a month-long commemoration of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) with an oathtaking ceremony on Monday.

In his keynote address, AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. emphasized the critical importance of IHL and the AFP’s dedication to respecting and implementing international standards of humanitarian conduct.

“Today, the AFP reaffirms its steadfast commitment, along with other peace-loving nations around the world, to upholding the principles of humanity, the utmost respect for human rights, and unfailing adherence to the promotion of IHL,” Brawner said. Rex Espiritu

A HELPING HAND. Members of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Philippine Coast Guard Auxilliary (PCGA) Executive Squadron conduct a joint relief operation for fisherfolks who were affected by the oil spill in Bataan. The initiative took place in Tanza and Ternate, Cavite on August 6. PCG CGCRS

NEW GRADUATES. Graduates of the SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) Bridging Gaps in Higher Education via Tertiary Scholarships (BRIGHTS) program pose with SNAP representatives.

Voters list-up draws nearly 66m

By Vito Barcelo

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) has logged close to 66 million voters, and expects more to register with still less than two months before the list-up ends.

Comelec chairman George Garcia said presently, there are 65,943,899 registered voters nationwide, with more than five million more expected to show up to be registered.

DOH warns vs. rise of dengue amid wet season

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

THE Department of Health (DOH) warns against rise of dengue incidence nationwide even as it noted less dengue-related deaths this year compared to last year.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa stressed that seeking early consultation and proper treatment of can effectively prevent death.

DOH data showed there were 337 dengue deaths this year compared 378 during the same period last year.

The national data as of July 27, 2024 listed a total of 128,834 dengue cases which is 33 percent higher than the 97,211 cases in the same period last year.

The DOH reminded the public of its 4S strategy against dengue as cases are still on an uptrend.

DOH records showed a significant increase from 12,153 cases recorded from June 16-29, to 18,349 cases recorded from June 30 to July 13. Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Cagayan Valley, and CALABARZON regions showed a continuous rise in dengue incidence in the recent six weeks counting back from July 27, 2024.

“We know that more stagnant water means more mosquitoes and more dengue. So let us keep searching and destroying containers that allow mosquitoes to multiply," said Herbosa.

He said the total number of new applications surpassed the five million mark broken down as 2,590,813 female and 2,421,002 are male. The poll chief expected the number

to increase since the deadline is still on September 30, 2024.

Calabarzon consisting of the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon had the most number of new voters at 833,812, followed by the National Capital Region (Metro Manila) with 669,372.

Meanwhile, the total number of deactivated voters reached 5,269,292 voters, while the total number of deleted voters was 579,720.

He said the deletion was due to imprisonment, having committed crimes involving disloyalty to duly constituted government or crime against national security, failure to vote in two succeeding polls, and loss of Filipino citizenship.

Eligible voters can register at any office of the election officer or satellite registration office in their locality from Mondays to Saturdays, including holidays, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

IN BRIEF

PMA entrance tests start this weekend

THE Philippine Military Academy (PMA) entrance tests will start this weekend with 46 examination centers nationwide.

The examinations in Mindanao will be on Aug.10-11, while the Visayas and Region 5 legs will be on Aug. 24-25.

The National Capital Region and Regions 4-A and 4-B phases will be on Sept. 7-8 while the Central, and North Luzon leg will be on Sept. 21 to 22, said PMA spokesperson Maj. Maria Charito Dulay said.

The PMA cadets undergo a fouryear military training program and are molded to be future officers and leaders of the three AFP major commands, namely, the Philippine Army, the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Air Force. They will earn their Bachelor of Science Degree in Management Major in Security Studies. Rex Espiritu

Blast fishing explosives seized in Zambo raid

THE Joint Task Force Poseidon, the 1st Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company (ZCMFC), and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region IX on Sunday seized homemade explosives and equipment used for blast fishing.

Naval Forces Western Mindanao spokesman Lt. Chester Ross Cabaltera said the composite team was patrolling off Barangay Mariki, Zamboanga City when they found and confiscated 46 bottles of homemade explosives, 50 commercial blasting caps, eight meters of bomb fuse, and a white motorized boat. They acted on reports of motorized boats carrying illegal explosives for fishing. One boat with three people managed to escape, but another boat with the explosives was left behind and seized by the team.

“This operation highlights the ongoing dedication of our maritime law enforcement agencies to stopping illegal fishing and protecting our coastal communities.” Cabaltera said. Rex Espiritu

Army’s 9 th ID salutes Peñafiel as new chief

THE Army’s 9th Infantry Division (9thID) on Monday welcomed Maj. Gen. Noe Alberto Peñafiel as its new commander in a turnover rite led by Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido at Camp Elias Angeles in San Jose, Pili, Camarines Sur.

Prior to his new post, Peñafield served as the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ internal auditor.

He belonged to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Sambisig” Class of 1991 and holds a Master of International Relations from Macquarie University and Master in Public Management from the Development Academy of the Philippines. Meanwhile, outgoing 9ID commander Maj. Gen. Adonis Bajao retires after 39 years of military service. Rex Espiritu

Pampanga may yet become ‘Culinary Capital of the Philippines’

By Maricel V. Cruz

PAMPANGA is about to officially be -

come the cookery center of the country as Congress passed on second reading a bill declaring it the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines.”

At this point, authors of House Bill 10634, namely, Senior Deputy Speaker

Aurelio Gonzales Jr, fellow Kapampangans, Reps. Anna York Bondoc, Carmelo Lazatin II, and former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, already anticipate the measure’s possible enactment into law.

Arroyo said recognizing the rich culinary heritage of Pampanga will open doors for increased tourism, leading to

Educators violating ‘no collection policy’ may face fines, jail time

THE Department of Education (DepEd) has reiterated its no collection policy for all public and private elementary and secondary schools.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara cited DepEd Memorandum No. 41, s. 2024, emphasizing that no fees should be collected during the enrollment period or throughout the school year. “The prohibition covers any person for any project or purpose, whether voluntary or otherwise,” DepEd said in a statement.

more job opportunities and economic growth in their local communities.

“Pampanga as a culinary capital will boost the country’s culinary tourism industry, which in turn will provide livelihood to many Kapampangans,” she said.

House Committee on Tourism chairman and Romblon Rep. Elean

dro Jesus Madrona supported the bill, highlighting Pampanga’s rich gastronomic heritage.

“While Pampanga’s culinary history stretches back as far as a century, its embodiment of the rich culinary culture worthy of global recognition and even emulation remains undisputed until today,” he said.

AYUDA PAYOUT. Tanza, Cavite Vice Mayor Simon Matro gives

Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

GOOD AS NEW BRIDGE. The Department of Public Work and Highways has formally opened the Malimango Bridge in Barangay Bagbag 1, Rosario, Cavite which underwent five months of rehabilitation works. Dennis Abrina

OPINION

Remembering BF

FOLLOWING the massive floods the national capital region and nearby provinces went through with Typhoon Carina, both DPWH and MMDA officials pointed to garbage clogging our drainage systems and pumping stations. As expected, these appointed officials could not point an accusing finger on the elected legislators whose greed in exacting kickbacks resulted in sub-standard, even non-existent river dredging and flood control projects through the years.

We wrote about this last week right after the metropolis suffered from unusually heavy rainfall that caused flooding, getting people to wonder about the president’s claim in his third SONA about more than 5,500 flood control projects. Even the revelation there is no flood mitigation master plan which came out in the Senate hearing glossed over the real cause of uncoordinated and piece meal projects: the pork barrel system of entitlements our legislators in both houses have never given up, and in fact increased by multiples from the time when 70 million apiece in the 90s under Cory till Erap ballooned into one and 2 billion apiece for congressmen and senators, respectively, with favorites getting much more than the ordinary legislators.

Still, there is no denying the garbage which residents throw away with no segregation whatsoever has compounded the problem of perennial flooding.

Our fellow columnist, Louie Biraogo, wrote a nice piece the other day about incineration as a practical solution to our garbage woes, which at present goes to sanitary landfills in the peripheral towns and cities of the metropolis.

The problem is in passing the Clean Air Act of 1999, our legislators caviled to the intense pressure of environmentalists who could not accept incineration due to its supposed toxic fumes, closing the door to possibilities of state-of-the-art technological innovations that may in the future minimize air pollutants.

Being the secretary for political affairs at the time, then President Erap Estrada asked me to assess some proponents of sanitary landfills and other solutions to the garbage problem.

One proposal was to use a huge open pit hollowed out by mining in Zambales as landfill, but the problem was the cost and difficulty of transporting garbage from NCR to Zambales.

Another proposal was to ship garbage to Semirara in Antique, but what if rough waters caused a barge filled with detritus to sink in Tablas or the waters facing our fabled Boracay?

Think of the Terra Nova and another vessel that sank in Limay and Mariveles, and caused oil slicks reaching Cavite’s coastal towns and cities? Or what

happened last year in Oriental Mindoro? And a decade before in Guimaras.

My good friend, Marikina Mayor Bayani Fernando (who died in a freak accident September last year), proposed a creative solution: bring the garbage to various train stations of the southbound PNR, load these into dedicated wagons, and bring them to some town in Quezon province where, in a huge tract of land, workers could segregate the garbage through mechanized conveyor systems, the recyclable wastes like paper and plastic going to recycling factories in the site, and the organic wastes going to composting areas also on site.

The facility would include housing for informal settlers and even provincial folk who could be employed in the conveyorized segregation system and the recycling and composting plants.

Our electorate prefers promising populists, dynasts and celebrities to the truly deserving doers

“Marangal namang hanapbuhay ang magbasura,” Bayani then reasoned, but Quezon folks cried NIMBY (not in my backyard), an emotional reaction.

Eventually we would have to incinerate, given that technology has developed where emissions are within acceptable levels.

In fact, incineration is practiced in several countries, and I saw one in Japan where they produced energy from the incinerating plant, with ash residues likewise useful in steel making.

Then President Erap promised BF he would head the MMDA after Jojo Binay who had decided to resign in Feb. 2001 to run once again for mayor of Makati.

As fate would have it, Erap was deposed by the EDSA Dos mob on Jan. 21, 2001.

Still, recognizing his effectivity, GMA would appoint Bayani, as we used to call him, to head MMDA and DPWH.

His wife, Marides succeeded him as mayor when he joined the GMA Cabinet, where she implemented a successful waste segregation system, where Marikenos dutifully separated the “nabubulok” and the recyclables, collected by scheduled, color-coded green and pink trucks, a model that should have been followed elsewhere.

BF’s purposive leadership which instilled order and discipline in Marikina was however not appreciated enough by the rest of the nation when he later sought national office.

Like I keep repeating, our electorate prefers promising populists, dynasts and celebrities to the truly deserving doers.

Turkish duo pen bestselling novel though prison bars

ISTANBUL, Turkey – A jailed Kurdish leader and a Turkish writer on the other side of the bars have used their penpal exchanges to write one of Turkey’s highest-selling books.

The crime novel “Duet in Purgatory”, which features a retired left-wing lawyer and a bitter ageing general with a tortuous past, has been a roaring success.

The two writers developed the story, which spans the last 40 years of Turkey’s tumultuous history and the long-standing Kurdish conflict, without ever discussing the plot.

“It was a risky gamble to try and write a novel like you’d play chess, move by move, without agreeing on the plot, the characters or the style -- nothing,” Selahattin Demirtas told a literary critic in an interview from prison.

The writing of the story began when author and translator Yigit Bener sent the jailed Kurdish leader Demirtas, who is serving a 42-year sentence, a copy of Louis-Ferdinand Celine’s classic novel “Journey to the End of the Night”.

He also put a note inside -- “the ex-

pression of my solidarity”.

Demirtas, who is 51 and a former co-president of the third largest political party in Turkey’s parliament was jailed in 2016 with the European Court of Human Rights later condemning his detention as political and calling for his release.

Critics have praised the ‘funny, fast-paced and spirited narrative,’ with readers rushing to see the free half of the writing duo as he tours bookshops

“I couldn’t accept that this man for whom, like six million others, I had voted for, and whose ideas I share, found himself behind bars while I am free,” said Bener. ‘A lot of fun’ Bener, who lived in exile in the

Where is Guo Hua Ping?

GUO Hua Ping, also known by her alias Alice Leal Guo, has been suspended by the Office of the Solicitor General as mayor of Bamban, Tarlac on the heels of the discovery by the National Bureau of Investigation through fingerprint analysis that she is really a Chinese national and therefore unfit to occupy any elective position in this country.

The answer? We don’t know, and neither do law enforcement authorities as of now, as it appears that she has made herself as scarce as hen’s teeth since then.

Has Guo already fled to China where she is a citizen?

Or is she being coddled by her fellow Chinese—or even by Filipinos— believed to be behind the proliferation of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) who are said to be behind various criminal offenses, like

kidnapping, torture, murder, and online scams of every conceivable type like investment scams and love scams, among others?

She should not be allowed to further thumb her nose at the Philippine justice system and go scotfree

Last month, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra filed a petition for quo warranto against Guo before the Manila Regional Trial Court. A quo warranto, which literally means “by what authority,” is a special civil action to determine if an individual has the right to exercise or hold a public office.

According to the OSG, Guo is unlawfully holding the position and illegally exercising the duties and responsibilities of the Office of the Mayor of Bamban, Tarlac since she is a Chinese national and ineligible to run for any elective public office.

Moreover, Guo has committed acts that are grounds for the forfeiture of her office, including serious dishonesty which, under the Local Govern-

UNQUESTIONABLY, the name of Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo will be hitched in our history books as one of our great athletes.

He is now a hero to the entire proud nation and he deserves it.

One gold medal would have been more than enough to put his name in the pantheon of great Filipino bemedaled Olympic athletes but, with two gold medals, this record may never be broken.

He brought pride and joy to a nation so accustomed to gloomy and depressing news and that is something no money can buy no matter how short it is.

Social media is now abuzz with his exploits and the rewards that await him when he comes home. Some may not realize it but this year’s Olympic competitions marks exactly 100 years of Philippine participation in the Olympics because it was in 1924 when we first sent our athletes to the 1924 Paris Olympiad.

Yulo’s accomplishments, therefore, make a fitting tribute to celebrate the occasion.

With a sure haul of four medals, our athletes performed better than in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Depending on what kind of medals our boxers will win, the country should be looking at a top 20 finish which is a big improvement from the last Olympics.

As of this writing, four of the 22 athletes we sent earned medals which translates to about 18 per cent which is very good when compared to bigger delegations.

But as usual, the 22 athletes were accompanied by three or four times more officials.

1980s, had praised Demirtas’s collection of short stories “Dawn”, and the two began corresponding via the politician’s lawyer.

The re-election of Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in May 2023 killed Demirtas’s hope of an early release, so Bener pitched the idea of taking their correspondence further.

“What if we wrote a novel, both of us?” Bener suggested, although he had not thought about a plot or characters and hadn’t intended it as a serious project.

While the idea originally sought to keep the prisoner busy, the duo soon wrapped 13 chapters.

Bener refused to say who wrote first, but said that the pair took turns to write.

The results, however, show we can compete with the best in the world, and with a better supported athletic program we can do better.

That Yulo was able to endure to achieve what he did is thanks to his personal perseverance and the small coterie of people who never gave up on him like my good friend Cynthia Carreon who told me after the disappointments of the 2021 Olympics that Yulo will deliver which he finally did in Paris. The Paris Olympics is one like no other. There was not the usual parade of nations normally done in a large stadium with all the athletes marching around the athletic oval with tens of thousands of spectators cheering.

Well done Carlos Yulo. You have made the country proud

This time the parade if one can call it that was a boat ride along the iconic Seine River that crosses the heart of Paris.

This being the case, many athletes were not able to participate due to space limitations which must have dampened their spirits.

But Paris being the City of lights, all the athletes must have just simply soaked in the Paris experience.

Whether the Paris Olympics will come out as one of the best, we will have to wait and see.

“We had a lot of fun but we had to finish,” said Bener. “We put it aside for two months before we had a few friends read it.”

Demirtas’s publishing house Dipnot, which has put out his previous novels and short stories, initially printed 55,000 copies last month, with more to come in September.

“Our personal stories, mine and Yigit’s trajectories contributed to shaping the novel. He motivated me when I needed it,” said the Kurdish political leader.

The secret behind the novel’s success is its timely relevance, said Bener.

“The book poses the question of reconciliation through two characters from the same generation of losers who share the same feeling of defeat,”

ment Code, warrant her removal from office.

With President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. having categorically banned POGOs from further operating in the entire country and directing the state-owned Philippine Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to gradually phase them out by yearend, two of the biggest POGOs in the country in Bamban, Tarlac and Porac, Pampanga where the suspended mayor is said to among those deeply involved in their operations.

While Guo has strenuously denied having any ties to the raided POGO firms in the two provinces during earlier hearings in the Senate, evidence gathered by the Presidential AntiOrganized Crime Commission indicate she is in fact orchestrating illegal POGO operations, abetting criminal activities and amassing huge wealth in the process.

What to do now?

Should the government perhaps offer a bounty for her immediate arrest as she has apparently gone into hiding in parts unknown or maybe even gone back to China through the backdoor? What’s clear is she is a fugitive from justice as charges have already been filed against her. She should not be allowed to further thumb her nose at the Philippine justice system and go scot-free.

Already there are some controversies like the two female boxers who are alleged to have XY chromosomes and were disqualified in one international boxing competition because they were not considered as women.

It is hard to understand why there are two different rules when there should be only one.

It cannot be that a person is considered a woman in one international competition and not in another. One of our two remaining boxers might even meet one of them. There is also the use of the Seine River for swimming competition. Some athletes have been hospitalized for suspected bacterial poisoning due the elevated level of feces found in the river.

Nonetheless, swimming events continue to be held there.

For those who have not been to Paris, the Seine River is equivalent to our Pasig River.

Not as polluted but still one would be crazy to be swimming in it.

I doubt very much if the Paris authorities were able to clean it up in a manner that it will really be safe for athletic competition.

But its Paris folks. Maybe it’s all worth it to swim in the Seine even if there is the danger of getting E coli poisoning.

Very soon, our athletes will be home to celebrate their well-deserved accomplishments.

And for Carlos Yulo, let’s hope that he will have the stamina to attend to all those flurry of social activities. Well done Carlos Yulo. You have made the country proud.

said Bener. “The idea speaks to today’s Turkey which is more polarised than ever.”

Bener was “extremely emotional” when he finally got permission to meet Demirtas in Edirne prison in northwest Turkey on the day of the book’s release, as the opposition leader is in isolation and only allowed weekly visits from his lawyer or family. Exceptionally, he was let out of the small cell where he has been locked up for eight years, which he shares with a former mayor of the Kurdish city of Diyarbakir, Adnan Selcuk Mizrakli. Critics have praised the “funny, fast-paced and spirited narrative,” with readers rushing to see the free half of the writing duo as he tours bookshops. AFP

Well done Carlos Yulo

Blinken warns Iran, Israel not to ‘escalate’

ANNAPOLIS – Both Iran and Israel should avoid escalating conflict, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time)wEDNESADAY, in his most direct wording toward US ally Israel on the Middle East’s spiraling tensions.

“No one should escalate this conflict.

We’ve been engaged in intense diplomacy with allies and partners, communicating that message directly to Iran. We communicated that message directly to Israel,” Blinken told reporters.

Iran has vowed a response after Israel was suspected of killing Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

This developed as Hamas named Yahya Sinwar, the man Israel says masterminded the Oct. 7 attack that sparked the Gaza war, as its new political chief following last week’s killing of his predecessor Ismail Haniyeh.

The announcement came with the Middle East on edge as it awaited Iran’s retaliation over the killing of Haniyeh in Tehran.

Iran blames Haniyeh’s death on Israel and has vowed to avenge him, while Hamas’s Lebanese ally Hezbollah has also pledged to retaliate for his killing and that of its military commander Fuad Shukr in an Israeli strike in Beirut hours earlier.

President Joe Biden has hinted at frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the assassination, which came just as he hoped to make progress in talks to reach a ceasefire in the 10-month Gaza war.

“Our commitment to Israel’s security is ironclad. We will continue to defend Israel against attacks from terrorist groups or their sponsors, just as we’ll continue to defend our troops,” Blinken said.

“But everyone in the region should understand that further attacks only perpetuate conflict, instability, insecurity for everyone,” he added.

Blinken, speaking after talks with the Australian foreign and defense ministers at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland said the United States was working “intensely to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and to prevent a spread of conflict.”

Blinken spoke earlier in the day by telephone to Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi.

Jordan -- in a delicate spot with its large Palestinian population and peace treaty with Israel -- played a key role in an earlier showdown in April in helping the United States shoot down Iranian missiles and drones, ensuring minimal damage in Israel. AFP

Bangladesh Nobel winner Yunus to lead interim gov’t after protests

INDICTED, NOW LEADER. Bangladesh’s Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus (center) addresses the media at the Special Judge Court in Dhaka on June 12, 2024, when he was indicted in a corruption case, the latest charges to proceed against the respected economist that supporters say are politically motivated. Yunus, who will now lead an interim government, will have the title of chief advisor, according to Haid Islam, one of the leaders of Students Against Discrimination who participated in the meeting. AFP

Harris, Walz debut, vow ‘fight for future’

PHILADELPHIA – Kamala Harris made her debut Tuesday with new White House running mate Tim Walz, who unleashed a stinging rebuke of their Republican rival Donald Trump, questioning his commitment to the country and skewering his record in office.

Hours after being announced on the Democratic ticket, the Minnesota governor took the stage with Vice President Harris in the crucial swing state of Pennsylvania, and signaled his intent to press the case aggressively against Trump.

“Donald Trump -- he sees the world differently. He doesn’t know the first thing about service because he’s too busy serving himself,” Walz told a crowd of around 10,000 wildly cheering supporters in Philadelphia.

He accused Trump of deliberately weakening the economy for his own ends, mocking law and order, and sowing “chaos and division”

“He drove our economy into the ground, and make no mistake: violent crime was up under Donald Trump. That’s not even counting the crimes he committed,” Walz added, earning roars of laughter and boisterous applause.

With less than three months to go until election day, most Americans don’t know who Walz is -- and he gave voters a glimpse of his personal story, describing his military service, his experiences as a public school teacher and his record in politics.

He spoke of his upbringing in the small town of Butte, Nebraska where he worked on the family farm and where community

was a “way of life” with neighbors striving together “for the common good.”

In their first campaign appearance together, Harris and Walz offered a glimpse of how they might appeal to voters as a duo -- one a trailblazing Black and South Asian former senator from California, the other a white ex-congressman from the blue-collar US heartland. Harris, 59, described Walz as “a leader who will help unite our nation and move us forward, a fighter for the middle class, a patriot who believes, as I do, in the extraordinary promise of America.”

A former attorney general of California, Harris has sought to draw a contrast between her past as a prosecutor and Trump’s criminal record, which extends to 34 felonies, with over a dozen more charges pending. AFP

DHAKA –Bangladesh’s Nobel-winning microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus will lead an interim government after mass protests forced longtime prime minister Sheikh Hasina to flee, the presidency announced Wednesday.

The appointment came quickly after student leaders called on the 84-year-old Yunus -- credited with lifting millions out of poverty in the South Asian country -- to lead.

The decision was made in a meeting with President Mohammed Shahabuddin, the heads of the army, navy and air force, and student leaders.

“(They) decided to form an interim government with Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus as its chief,” Shahabuddin’s office said in a statement.

“The president has asked the people to help ride out the crisis. Quick formation of an interim government is necessary to overcome the crisis.” Yunus will have the title of chief advisor, according to Haid Islam, one of the leaders of Students Against Discrimination who participated in the meeting. Shahabuddin agreed that the interim government “will be formed within the shortest time” possible, Islam told reporters. Islam described the meeting as “fruitful.”

However, there were few other details about the planned government, including the role of the military.

Yunus, who is currently in Europe, told AFP on Tuesday he was willing to lead the interim government.

“If action is needed in Bangladesh, for my country and for the courage of my people, then I will take it,” he said in a statement, also calling for free elections.

Hasina, 76, who had been in power since 2009, resigned on Monday as hundreds of thousands of people flooded the streets of Dhaka demanding she stand down.

Monday’s events were the culmination of more than a month of unrest, which began as protests against a plan for quotas in government jobs but morphed into an anti-Hasina movement. AFP

IN BRIEF

Taiwan ex-soldier rescued by China returns home

TAIPEI – A former Taiwanese military officer held in China for nearly five months after he was rescued by Chinese authorities during a fishing trip finally returned home on Wednesday.

The angler, surnamed Hu, from Taiwan’s outlying Kinmen islands was found with a friend on March 18 by the coast guard of China’s Fujian province after the engine of their boat failed.

CRUCIAL SWING STATE. US Vice President and 2024 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff arrive to board Air Force Two at Joint Base Andrew in Maryland Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time). Harris is attending a campaign event in Philadelphia where she will join her running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. A former attorney general of California, Harris has sought to draw a contrast between her past as a prosecutor and Trump’s criminal record, which extends to 34 felonies, with over a dozen more charges pending. AFP

His friend was repatriated to Kinmen a few days later, while Hu -- an active member of Taiwan’s military at the time -- was held as Chinese authorities accused him of intentionally concealing his identity.

Thousands of riot cops on standby as UK braces for more violence

LONDON – Thousands of UK riot police on Wednesday stood ready to deal with more potential outbreaks of violence, which erupted more than a week ago after three children were murdered.

Far-right groups have planned demonstrations in more than 30 locations, with immigration lawyers and buildings hosting asylum seekers set to be the primary targets, according to posts on messaging app Telegram leaked to the British media. The government has said 6,000 specialist police are being readied to deal with England’s worst disorder in over a decade, which has seen hundreds arrested and more than 100 charged. The violence broke out after three girls, aged nine, seven and six,

On Wednesday, Kinmen lawmaker Chen Yu-jen accompanied Hu’s parents and daughter on the first ferry service to the Chinese city of Xiamen -- located just five kilometres (three miles) away -- to bring him back.

Chen live-streamed their return around noon on her Facebook page, showing Hu holding his daughter’s hands as they disembarked from the ferry.

“I miss home, I miss home very much,” he told reporters gathered at the dock.

“This was just an accident and it’s good that it can be resolved smoothly.”

Hu’s family had applied for him to be discharged from the military two months after he was detained in China, hoping to speed up his return.

Kinmen’s Defense Command said in March that Hu had gone fishing while on holiday and lost contact due to heavy fog.

It has urged soldiers “to refrain from participating in various risky activities during their vacation” following the incident. AFP

NEW YORK – A Pakistani man with ties to Iran has been arrested for allegedly plotting to assassinate a US official in retaliation for the US killing of Revolutionary Guards commander Qassem Soleimani, the Justice Department said Tuesday (Wednesday Manila time). . Asif Raza Merchant, 46, allegedly sought to hire a hitman to assassinate a politician or a US government official in the United States, the department said in a statement.

“For years, the Justice Department has been working aggressively to counter Iran’s brazen and unrelenting efforts to retaliate against American public officials for the killing of Iranian General Soleimani,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said. Soleimani, the architect of Iran’s foreign military operations, was killed in a US drone strike in Baghdad in January 2020. Iranian officials have repeatedly vowed to take “revenge” for the killing.

“The Justice Department will spare no resource to disrupt and hold accountable those who would seek to carry out Iran’s lethal plotting against American citizens,” Garland said. AFP

Pakistani arrested in alleged Iran plot Singapore hangs man in 2nd execution

SINGAPORE – Singapore hanged a 59-year-old man on Wednesday for drug trafficking, authorities said, the second execution in the city-state in less than a week.

The United Nations and rights groups say capital punishment has no proven deterrent effect and have called for it to be discontinued. Singaporean officials, however, insist it has helped make the country one of Asia’s safest.

“The capital sentence of death imposed on a 59-year-old Singaporean was carried out on 7 August 2024,” the Central Narcotics Bureau said in a statement.

The man was convicted of trafficking “not less than 35.85” grams of pure heroin. Trafficking more than 15 grams of heroin merits the death penalty under Singapore’s tough drug laws.

“He was accorded full due process under the law, and was represented by legal counsel throughout the process,” the CNB said.

“He appealed against his conviction and sentence, and the Court of Appeal dismissed his appeal on 11 May 2022. His petition to the president for clemency was unsuccessful.” AFP

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

SPORTS

Less-experienced Lady Bulldogs upend Lady Knights in V-League

The National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs turned back the Colegio de San Juan de Letran Lady Knights, 25-23, 25-21, 23-25, 25-11, kickstarting their campaign in the 2024 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila on Wednesday.

Kaye Bombita and Myrtle Escanlar led the charge for NU, whose young core showed great potential and promise, stepping up in the absence of key players Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon, and Arah Panique, who are currently competing with Alas Pilipinas Women in the ongoing SEA V.League tournament.

“We still need maturity, especially with the rookies and less experi-

enced players, so this win is a big boost for the team and their confidence,” said NU assistant coach Karl Dimaculangan.

Bombita posted a game-high 19 points on 14 attacks, three aces, and two blocks, while Escanlar contributed 16 markers on 15 attacks and two aces. The Lady Bulldogs rebounded strongly from a tough third set setback, padding a seven-

point lead (12-5) to a 14-point advantage (24-10) on a 12-5 blitz to secure the victory.

NU’s efforts to fight back from six points down in the third set went in vain as reigning NCAA Freshman of the Year Gia Maquilang came through with back-to-back hits, spoiling the Lady Bulldogs’ sweep bid and extending the match.

Earlier, NU struggled past Letran in the opening frame, which was close throughout but relied on its power to produce 15 spikes, four more than its rival, to seize the early edge. The Lady Bulldogs then overcame an erratic game in the second set, marred by 11 miscues, to pull through over the Intramuros-based squad after

Solid Batican rolls to 21-shot JPGT Mindanao triumph

BUKIDNON—Playing on a familiar course can often add pressure to a golfer, as the expectation of home-field advantage looms large. Ralph Batican, however, shattered this notion by mastering the Del Monte layout as if he had designed it himself.

In an impressive display of skill, Batican fired a bogey-free sevenunder 65 in hot conditions in the first round of the ICTSI Junior PGT Mindanao Series 3 here on Tuesday. He then outdid himself with a stunning 11-under 61 in the second round yesterday, once again without a single misstep, securing the boys’ 10-12 age category crown via a 21-shot victory on a whopping 18-under 126 total. Though his age group played from the shorter white tees, Batican’s flawless 36-hole performance is remarkable, given the course’s challenges and hazards from tee to green. Mistakes like botching chip shots from 30-40 yards and making three putts are common, but he navigated them with ease.

“This is my first time scoring this round,” said Batican of his performance, which he highlighted with five consecutive birdies starting from hole No. 9. This birdie streak followed his birdies on four of the first seven holes. He gained another

stroke on the 15th and concluded with a birdie on the par-5 18th hole, cheered on by a large gallery surrounding the green.

“It was good, and luckily I didn’t make a single bogey in two days,” said the 12-year-old prodigy from Libona, who recently won the South Pacific leg via sudden death over Jared Saban. “My approach shots were good, but I’ve been practicing

those shots for the longest time. I was hoping not to get a bogey, and it worked.”

Despite the challenges posed by the tight, tree-lined layout and unpredictable greens, the Lifehouse Montessori Academy student approached the game conservatively. “I didn’t attack the pins, because if I did, I would get a bogey,” he explained. “I just played it safe the whole day.”

MILO launches Safe Swim program

MILO launched the latest addition to its roster of sports initiatives, MILO Safe Swim in partnership with Philippine Red Cross, Swimtech, and Olympian Jenny Guerrero to conclude the National Disaster Resilience Month this July and in recognition of this past July 25 serving as World Drown Prevention Day.

Kim Patrick Flores, SVP and Business Executive Officer of Nestlé Philippines Beverage and Confectionery, Veronica Cruz; Philippine Red Cross Training Unit Head Beliardo Anciro; and MILO® Philippines Brand Manager Ana Twaño during the launch.

Aiming to address the concerning occurrence of drowning in the Philippines, the program was formally kicked off on July 31 in a bid to teach young children how to swim, and be equipped with the necessary survival skills to be

prepared for emergency situations anywhere and any time. With over a hundred million Filipinos living in an archipelago, MILO® has recognized swimming as an important skill to learn due to its life-saving properties. Unfortunately, due to insufficient avenues for learning, drowning remains fatal for many in the community, especially within the younger populations – whether due to accidents during vacations, rapid flooding during the typhoon season, or otherwise.

As such, MILO® has embarked on Safe Swim as a means for young children to continue and nourish their journey through sports, and gain the skills that they would need when the need to act in emergency situations arises. Just as well, Safe Swim will be open to all young attendees’ parents so they too

can be equipped with proper drown prevention knowledge for not only themselves, but their loved ones.

As a brand empowered by its fellow Filipinos, MILO in launching their Safe Swim also commits to ensure that the program is a joint effort with various sectors of the local community. Partner Philippine Red Cross will come in with lifesaving lessons and modules to teach all attendees; the organization has also met with MILO during its Safe Swim kickoff meeting this July 31 to discuss the various opportunities Filipinos can gain valuable knowledge against drowning.

Veronica Cruz, SVP and Business Executive Officer, Nestlé Philippines Beverages and Confectionery, elaborated on why the brand has deemed this program important for the Filipino community. She shares, “Today,

Fighting Maroons sink Lady Pirates, bolster V-L bid

BUILDING on the momentum of its thrilling five-set victory over Far Eastern U last week, University of the Philippines swept past Lyceum of the Philippines University with a commanding 25-16, 25-23, 15-25, 2520 win, strengthening its bid in the 2024 V-League Women’s Collegiate Challenge at the Paco Arena in Manila on Wednesday.

Nica Celis and Kassandra Doering spearheaded UP’s attack in the decisive fourth set, leading the Fighting Maroons to their second consecutive win after a tough five-set loss to the Letran Lady Knights.

The victory hiked UP’s record to 2-1 (win-loss).

“It’s a positive note for us because, as you know, 70 percent of the UP lineup this year are rookies. We’re happy that most of the rookies are delivering. We can use some of the rookies, but what we need is consistency and maturity,” said UP head coach Oliver Almadro, reflecting on his team’s performance.

a crosscourt hit and a through-theblock attack by Escanlar.

“There are still many adjustments and improvements needed, especially on the verge of last year with players like Bella and Aly being senior players. They need to get used to stepping up in games,” added Dimaculangan.

The Lady Bulldogs will next face the 1-1 University of the East Lady Warriors on August 14. Maquilang led Letran with 15 points on 13 attacks and two aces, while Marie Nitura contributed 13 markers. The Lady Knights will square off against the College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers in a rematch of last season’s NCAA finals on Aug. 18.

Nina Ytang shone with 16 points from 12 attacks and four blocks, while Doering and Irah Jaboneta contributed 14 and 10 points, respectively. Despite a strong start, UP missed the chance to sweep LPU due to errors by Kianne Olango and a quick hit from Heart Bio, allowing the Lady Pirates to take the third set.

In the fourth frame, with UP trailing by one point after a Hiromi Osada off-the-block hit, the Fighting Maroons unleashed a decisive 9-0 run to secure the victory, handing LPU their second consecutive defeat.

“There’s a tendency to relax or maintain a certain level, but I’m really challenging them that every game, every point, every set, the level should be going up every time. It’s still a learning process,” added Almadro.

UP established a comfortable twoset lead before overcoming a third-set lapse to clinch the one hour, 43-minute victory. The Fighting Maroons are set to face the College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers on Sunday.

Pampanga extends hot streak; Manila, Davao trip MPBL foes

DEFENDING champion Pampanga extended its hot run while Manila and Davao also jumped forward in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball Lague) sixth Season elimination round on Tuesday at the San Andres Sports Complex in Manila.

The Pampanga Giant Lanterns dumped the Imus Agimat, 136-75, for their 20th straight win after an initial loss, keeping the pace in the round-robin elimination phase of the 29-team tournament.

Not to be outdone, the Manila SV Batang Sampaloc subdued the Batangas City Tanduay Rum Masters, 86-76, while the Davao Occidental Tigers routed the Marikina Shoemasters, 90-78.

Reigning MVP Justine Baltazar sparkled for Pampanga anew with 24 points and 14 rebounds, overshadowing Renz Alcoriza’s 20 points, 3 rebounds and 2 blocks effort.

Other Grand Lanterns who shone were Brandon Ramirez with 16 points, 5 rebounds and 3 steals, Jeff Viernes with 14 points, 5 assists and 2 steals, and Kurt Reyson with 13 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals.

With Baltazar dominant, Pampanga ruled the boards, 68-42, and converted this edge to 36 more points inside the paint (72-36) than Imus.

The also-ran Imus Agimat, who tumbled to 1-20, got 18 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists from Richard Albo, 15 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals from Jameson Hiro, and 13 points each from Nemesis Dela Cruz and Carlo De Chavez.

Like Pampanga, Manila also showed its depth against Batangas.

Crack guard Enzo Navarro led six Stars in double figures as Manila climbed to a 15-5 card. Navarro posted 17 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds, followed by 7-footer Greg Slaughter with 13 points and 11 rebounds.

nourishing Filipino kids’

to success, growing up with sports is a critical component. We truly find this program meaningful as safety goes hand-in-hand with sports, with swimming as a life-saving skill.”

10-12 winners Ralph and sister Rafella Batican (four and fifth from left, respectively) hold their medals as they pose with (from left) ICTSI’s Ronnel Javier, Javie Bautista, Ken Guillermo, Brittany Tamayo, Kimberly Barroquillo, and Del Monte Clubhouse manager Bea Roque during awards rites of the ICTSI JPGT Mindanao Series 3 in Bukidnon.

Olympian Swimmer Coach Jenny Guerrero, Philippine Red Cross National Field Representative

Jimboy Pasturan shines for the Manila SV Batang Sampaloc Stars.

The Lady Bulldogs were fierce even on defense. They will face the 1-1 University of the East Lady Warriors on August 14. PVL Media

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

UPH Altas edge

SJDL Knights in Men’s V-League

PERPETUAL Help overcame a

two-set lead loss to secure a thrilling victory against Letran, winning 25-19, 25-22, 20-25, 21-25, 15-13 in the 2024 V-League Men’s Collegiate Challenge at Paco Arena in Manila on Wednesday.

Kobe Tabuga led the charge with 23 points, including 20 attacks, while Hezron Manaloto added 13 points from 11 attacks and two blocks as the Altas rebounded from their recent four-set defeat to the reigning UAAP champion National U Bulldogs.

“It was a nice game, ang habol lang naman namin dito ay exposure for this coming NCAA. That is why napakagandang exposure and mental toughness ng mga bata ko ito. Kaya whatever the result there is, pagiisipan namin kung ano pa dapat pa namin gawin,” said Perpetual head coach Sammy Acaylar.

Tied at 3 in the fifth set, Perpetual unleashed a 6-1 run to take a fivepoint lead. Although Letran fought back to tie the score at 12, the Altas clinched the win by scoring three of the last four points.

Jefferson Marapoc delivered an offthe-block hit, Jester Bornel scored on a quick hit, and Manaloto added a power tip to secure the victory. Despite being down two sets, the Knights made a strong comeback in the third set, with Vince Himzon’s through-the-block hit, and tied the match with John Bautista’s back-toback hits in the fourth.

“Sabi ko sa kanila dapat meron silang pride as a champion [in the NCAA] so kung umabot kami sa five sets, dapat yung five sets na ‘yon ay iisipin nila yung laro namin sa NCAA na pang-championship,” added Acaylar.

Bautista scored 24 points with 22 attacks, one block, and an ace, while Himzon contributed 21 points from 18 attacks, two aces, and a block for the Knights, who fell to 0-2.

The Altas will next face the FEU Tamaraws on Aug. 14, while the Knights aim for their first win against the Ateneo Blue Eagles this Sunday.

USA thumps Brazil, arranges semis showdown with Serbia

THE United States, with 18 points from Devin Booker and 17 from Anthony Edwards, routed Brazil 122-87 on Tuesday to book an Olympic basketball semi-final showdown with Nikola Jokic’s Serbia.

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James scored 12 points and handed out nine assists before departing in the third quarter after taking an inadvertent elbow to the eye. His exit didn’t slow the US team packed with NBA talent, who delivered a stream of highlight reel plays to the delight of fans at Bercy Arena.

The US remained unbeaten in Olympic quarter-finals, but James said it’s just a step toward the main mission.

“We understand what the main goal is, and the main goal is for us to

win gold,” James said. “That’s all I care about.”

Cameroon-born Joel Embiid scored 14 points, connecting on all three of his three-point attempts and shrugging off the boos of French fans still irked by his decision to play for the United States despite his eligibility for the host side.

Anthony Davis added 13 points and Kevin Durant scored 11 as the United States continued their march toward a fifth straight Olympic title and their 17th overall. With a dunk late in the third quarter,

Durant got his sixth point of the contest and the 489th of his Olympic career.

That made him the most prolific scorer among US men or women basketballers in the Olympics, passing Lisa Leslie.

“Records are meant to be broken, so somebody will come along and do the same,” Durant said. “We’re just focused on trying to win this gold.”

An energetic Brazil did what they could, cutting a 19-point deficit to eight midway through the second quarter with a spurt that featured a dunk from Lucas Dias along with three-pointers from Marcelinho Huertas and Dias.

But they fouled Stephen Curry on a three-point attempt and he made all three free throws to set the US off again.

James’s layup after a scramble under

Mom Angelica apologizes to Yulo over public dispute

ANGELICA Yulo, mother of Olympic double gold medalist Carlos Yulo, tearfully apologized to her son on Wednesday following a public dispute that escalated on social media.

The disagreements, which involved hurtful posts about her son and his girlfriend, Chloe San Jose, grew out of proportion, leading to widespread attention.

“As a mother, it hurts me deeply that the kind and well-raised son I nurtured no longer listens to my guidance. If my criticisms of your girlfriend were wrong, I apologize. I am just a concerned mother,” said Angelica Yulo.

She expressed her grievances during a press conference at the Heroes Manila Hotel in Malate, accompanied by lawyer Raymond Fortun. Her husband, Mark, and daughter, Joriegel, were also present. The family requested privacy

they work through their personal issues with Carlos upon his

to

ArenaPlus hands out P5 million incentive to Yulo

ARENAPLUS is the latest to recognize Carlos Yulo for the historical feat he achieved in the Paris Olympics as it sets to give Yulo a cash reward amounting to P5 million.

The ‘Astig Sports Bonus’ is also in honor of the 24-year-old gymnast being the official brand ambassador of the leading sports entertainment gateway in the country.

The Filipino pride became the first ever to win for the country two gold medals in a single Olympics by ruling the men’s floor exercise and vault event one after the other at Bercy Arena during the weekend.

A grand hero’s welcome is expected to be given to Yulo once he arrives in the country.

“Kasama mo kami sa laban ngayon. Parte ka na ng kasaysayan. At para sa patuloy nating paglalakbay sa ating magandang pinagsamahan, sa iyo rin ang Astig Sports Bonus of P5 million,” said ArenaPlus in a statement.

“Para sa iyong pagpupursige sa hinaharap at sa larangan na iyong pinasikat, ito’y magsisilbing tulong para mas lalong mai-angat ang iba’t ibang karera sa sports.”

The cash reward adds up to the other incentives Yulo is going to receive both from the government and private sector for his exemplary showing in his second Olympic stint.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) under RA 10699 (National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act) will hand out a total of P20 million or P10 million each for the gold medals Yulo won

The House of Representatives also doubled its earlier pledge to the 4-foot-11 gymnast by giving out P6 million, while a house and lot in Tagaytay and a condominium unit worth P35 million will be provided by the Philippine Oly mpic Committee (POC) and a property develop ment firm.

floor exercise and vault events.

The family’s issues escalated when Angelica Yulo, in an interview, revealed her involvement in her son’s finances. She admitted to withdrawing money from Carlos’ account to transfer to hers for the final payment on a property in Cavite.

Carlos had previously stated that he forgave his mother for issues related to his incentives following his world championship win in 2022.

Lawyer Fortun emphasized that the family intends to resolve these matters privately.

Meanwhile, Carlos’ father, Mark, expressed hope for reconciliation, noting that their issues with their son were minor and could be resolved through discussions once he returns to Manila.

“This has blown out of proportion. It’s just a small problem,” said Mark in an interview with the Manila Standard. Peter Atencio

the basket gave the Americans a 50-36 lead and launched a 13-0 scoring run to end the first half that was punctuated by a dunk from Jayson Tatum.

Former NBA first-round draft pick Bruno Caboclo of Brazil led all scorers with 30 points, but the South Americans couldn’t make a dent in the second half.

The US will now fight for a berth in the final against a battle-tested Serbian side. Jokic and company rallied from 24 points down to edge Australia 95-90 earlier Tuesday.

The US has beaten Serbia twice in recent weeks, in a tune-up game and again in group play.

“Every game is its own test,” James said. “It doesn’t matter what happened in the first two, it’s about what goes down Thursday night. AFP

Veterans, rising tennis stars collide at Olivarez

Open

JOHNNY Arcilla sets out for another Open crown while Eric Jed Olivarez seeks redemption as they headline a packed field in the Mayor Eric Olivarez National Tennis Championships, which got underway Wednesday in Sucat, Parañaque.

To accommodate the large number of participants in Series II of one of the country’s longest-running Open tournaments, including those competing in the juniors category next week, organizers have utilized the Olivarez Sports Center and the Parañaque courts for the two-week event.

The spotlight, however, will be on the Group A tournament, with the resilient Arcilla aiming for another championship after edging out Olivarez in a thrilling three-set match in Series I last June. The victory improved the 44-yearold Arcilla’s head-to-head record against Olivarez to 4-1, but the latter is determined to get back at the 10time PCA Open champion.

A host of talented contenders, however, have trained rigorously to challenge for the title in this tournament, which also features the legends’ men’s doubles (30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s) and legends’ women’s doubles (35s and 45s). Also on tap are the Classified events and the Collegiate singles and doubles competitions.

Notable contenders in the Open include Jose Maria Paguia, Vicenta Anasta, Fritz Verdad, Nilo Ledama, Marco Macalintal, Loucas Fernandez, John Altiche, Noel Salupado, Bryan Saarenas, John Accion, Lance Fernandez, John Aguilar, Miguel Iglupas and Rolly Saga.

Tournament organizer Bobby Mangunay highlighted the tournament’s widespread appeal by holding a series of qualifiers among 64 hopefuls for four main draw slots, attracting both pros and emerging talents from the junior and women’s ranks.

Anthony Edwards (No.5) of Team USA drives to the basket during the game against Team Brazil at the AccorHotels Arena in Paris, France. Team USA won,122-87 AFP

‘I apologize. I am just a concerned mother,’ says Angelica Yulo (left) Peter Atencio

return

Manila next Tuesday.

Yulo, 23, is scheduled to arrive home on August 13, two weeks after winning medals in the

Agriculture sector’s decline in Q2 Drop in rice harvests in Q2 Drop in corn production in Q2

Agriculture shrank 3.3% in Q2 as rice harvests fell

THE agriculture and fisheries sector shrank 3.3 percent in the second quarter of 2024 on lower rice and corn production, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said Wednesday.

It followed the 0.2-percent growth in the first quarter of 2024 and the 1.2-percent drop in the second quarter of 2023. Agriculture and fisheries output represents about a tenth of the Philippines gross domestic product.

Data from the PSA show that in the first half, the agriculture and fisheries sector also contracted 1.5 percent, a reversal of the 0.4 percent growth in the same period last year.

The PSA said the second-quarter decline was due to the annual de-

creases in the values of crops and livestock production during the period. “Meanwhile, values of poultry and fisheries production posted annual increments,” it said.

Crop production fell 8.6 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2024. It contributed 53.2 percent to the total value of agriculture and fisheries production.

“Declines in the value of palay and corn production were registered at 9.5 percent and 20.3 percent annually, respectively,” the PSA said.

The PSA said in a separate report that in terms of volume, crop production fell 13.0 percent in the second quarter to 15.56 million metric tons from 17.88 million MT a year ago. It said the annual decline was due to the lower output of sugarcane, rice and corn.

Livestock production also declined 0.3 percent from a year ago and comprised 15.3 percent of the total value of production in agriculture and fisheries sector. Hog output decreased 0.2 percent year-on-year.

Poultry production increased 8.7 percent in the second quarter and accounted for 16.9 percent of the total value of production in agriculture and fisheries sector.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

revision were financial and insurance activities, with growth revised from 10.0 percent to 10.3 percent; wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, from 6.4 percent to 6.6 percent; and electricity, steam, water and waste management, from 6.3 percent to 6.9 percent.

The PSA said it also raised the gross national income (GNI) growth to 9.8 percent from 9.7 percent. This followed the adjustment in the growth of net primary income from the rest of the world from 57.0 percent to 57.6 percent.

The PSA said it revises the GDP estimates based on an approved revision policy (PSA Board Resolution No. 1, Series of 2017053), consistent with international standard practices on national accounts revisions. It announced the revision ahead of the release of the second-quarter GDP report on Thursday.

Economic managers earlier projected that the GDP would grow 6 percent in the second quarter on the back of strong consumer and government spending. The government targets a 6 percent to 7 percent growth for 2024.

The Philippine economy likely grew 6.3 percent in the second quarter, according to Moody’s Analytics, Moody’s said the second-quarter growth was driven by base effects, stronger exports and government spending.

“In the Philippines, we expect economic growth to accelerate to 6.3 percent year-on-year from [5.8 percent] in the March quarter. The result will be flattered by a low base effect,” Moody’s Analytics said.

THE Philippine economy is expected to grow faster than government debt over the next four years, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto said Wednesday.

Recto said while government debt could reach P20 trillion by 2028, it would be less than 60 percent of the country’s gross domestic product which is estimated to hit P37 trillion in the same period.

“By 2028, the debt of the Philippines would be roughly P20 trillion. Our economy by 2028 is expected to be about P37 trillion,” Recto said at the Kapihan sa Manila Bay news forum.

“This means that the income of ordinary Filipinos would be higher. We would have a bigger economy and more jobs,” said Recto.

He said the Philippines is on track to achieving upper middle income (UMIC) status by 2025.

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CONGLOMERATE SM Investments Corp. (SMIC) of the Sy family posted a net income of P40.2 billion in the first half of 2024, up by 10 percent from P36.5 billion in the same period last year.

Consolidated revenues rose 5 percent in the first half to P301.4 billion from P286.7 billion a year ago, SMIC said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Wednesday. SMIC said second-quarter income rose 13 percent to P21.8 billion as revenues increased 6 percent to P157.7 billion. “SM’s double-digit growth in the first half results reflects a positive environment for our businesses. Improved discretionary spending in the second quarter lifted retail sales, while our banks, property and portfolio investments continued to deliver. We remain cautiously optimistic for the balance of the year,” said SMIC president and chief executive Frederic Dy Buncio. Banking accounted for the largest share of total net earnings at 50 percent followed by property, which contributed 27 percent. Retail accounted for 14 percent and portfolio investments’ share was at 9 percent.

Net income of SM Retail stood at P7.6 billion in the first half, down 9.5 percent from P8.4 billion last year, due to a high base effect from the impact of the lifting of mobility restrictions on consumption in 2023.

Revenues grew 4 percent in the first half to P196.9

“We recently achieved an alltime high gross national income per capita. This bodes well for our goal of reaching an upper middle-income country by 2025. This means we can expect higher income of each Filipino,” he said.

“The most important thing is we lifted about 2.5 million Filipinos from poverty in 2023. This is why our poverty incidence fell to 15.5 percent,” he said.

Recto said of the government debt, around 70 percent would be sourced domestically, suggesting that Filipinos themselves would be the primary creditors.

Data from the Bureau of Treasury (BTr) show that the national government debt climbed to P15.48 trillion as of end-June 2024, a 0.9 percent increase from the end-May

level primarily due to new borrowings and the peso’s depreciation against the US dollar. It said of the total debt stock, 31.71 percent was external debt, while 68.29 percent represented domestic debt.

The government targets to bring down the debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio to 57 percent by 2028. In 2023, the debt to GDP ratio eased to 60.1 percent from 60.9 percent in 2022.

“We are determined to continue pushing it below 60 percent so we have enough buffer in case another crisis hits us,” Recto said.

“And we are using debts to spur our strong economic recovery by investing heavily in more infrastructure and human capital development projects which have the highest multiplier effect on the economy,” Recto said. Darwin G. Amojelar

AFAB NIGHT. Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) administrator and chief executive Hussein Pangandaman (second from left) hands over the loyalty award to FAB worker Edgardo Octavio in rendering 43 years of service during the 11th FAB Stakeholders Night at the AFAB Auditorium in Mariveles, Bataan on Aug. 6, 2024. Assisting Pangandaman are (from left) AFAB deputy administrator for support services Ma. Lourdes Herrera, deputy administrator for operations Michael Angelo Paderanga and Office of the Administrator group head Percival Peralta. Joseph Muego

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto

PHINMA bares P1-b stock rights offering in Q4 to support growth

By Ralph Harvey Rural

PHINMA Corp. said Wednesday it will conduct a stock rights offering (SRO) this year to support the company’s investment and expansion opportunities.

The company said its board approved the offering consisting of P1 billion in primary common shares to be listed in the fourth quarter of 2024.

“The stock rights offering reflects investor confidence in PHINMA’s growth prospects while allowing us funding flexibility as we pursue investments that will make lives better,” said PHINMA chief financial officer EJ Qua Hiansen.

The SRO, apart from strengthening PHINMA’s capital base, will also complete the group’s consolidation efforts, placing it in a better position to provide essentials to dignified lives through education, construction materials, property development and hospitality.

PHINMA Properties recently launched its township in Bacolod

City in line with the company’s commitment to regional progress.

Saludad, a 21-hectare mixed-use development, is the latest among PHINMA Properties’ efforts to expand its presence outside Metro Manila.

PHINMA Construction Materials Group—composed of Union Galvasteel Corp., Philcement Corp. and PHINMA Solar Energy Corp.—also continued efforts related to its growth projects.

These include PHINMA Solar’s preparatory activities for eventual installation of projects it secured under the government’s second Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP II), along with Philcement’s conclusion of talks for the acquisition of Petra Cement Inc. through its 70-percent owned subsidiary Philcement Mindanao Corp. by yearend and signing of joint venture agreements with Anflo Group management and investment company ANFLOCOR to build a modern cement manufacturing plant in Davao del Norte.

Higher food, beer revenues lift SMFB’s profit to P20b

SAN Miguel Food and Beverage Inc.

(SMFB) said Wednesday its first-half net income rose 6 percent to P20 billion on higher food and beer revenues.

SMFB said in a disclosure to the stock exchange consolidated sales increased 4 percent to P192.9 billion as of end-June 2024. Income from operations grew 16 percent to P26.6 billion.

“SMFB has had a strong start to the year, and we remain focused on leveraging our strengths to drive growth and efficiency,” said SMFB chairman Ramon Ang.

PH stocks climb on bargain hunting, track Wall St. rally

PHILIPPINE stocks bounced back to the 6,500 level after Wall Street snapped its three-day losing streak.

The 30-company Philippine Stock Exchange index surged 101.93 points, or 1.58 percent, to close at 6,535.17, while the all-shares index added 43 points, or 1.22 percent, to end at 3,563.94.

Philstocks Financial Inc. research analyst Mikhail Plopenio said investors also hunted for bargains after a threeday decline.

“Along with our regional peers, the bourse tracked Wall Street’s rebound overnight,” Plopenio said. “Also, the strengthening of the local current against the US dollar boosted sentiment.”

Analysts said, however, investors remained cautious amid concerns of elevated interest rates, higher interest rate and US recession.

All sub-indices ended in the green, led by property which climbed 3.52 percent, followed by services and mining and oil which advanced by 1.91 percent and 1.62 percent, respectively.

Value turnover reached P4.57 billion.

Jenniffer B. Austria

“We are also committed to supporting our nation’s food security and economic growth by expanding access to essential products. We are very optimistic about the opportunities ahead and confident in our ability to deliver continued value to all our stakeholders,” Ang said.

San Miguel Foods saw a 3-percent sales increase to P87.8 billion, driven by the double-digit revenue growth in prepared and packaged foods.

Higher volumes, improved pricing and lower raw material costs contributed to a 41-percent increase in EBIT-

DA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) to P10 billion, while operating income doubled to P6.4 billion.

Consolidated revenues of San Miguel Brewery Inc. inched up by 1 percent to P75.1 billion, driven by improved sales volume in the second quarter.

Ginebra San Miguel Inc. also reported an 18-percent sales increase to P30 billion, driven by 10-percent volume growth, along with effective marketing campaigns, new products and expanded distribution.

Austria

Jenniffer B.

PIPELAYING PROJECT. Manila Water Company Inc. is constructing the P360million long-term East 3 (LTE3) Cayetano Boulevard Line pipelaying project to improve the supply of potable water to more than 750,000 Taguig City residents. The project working hours are scheduled from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. to minimize disruptions to traffic and residents’ daily activities.

THE proposed township development and big housing projects set to rise on this former American military base foretells an economic boom.

Foreign investors are scouring idle lands covered by the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone while the government is about to launch the construction of the Subic-ClarkManila-Batangas (SCMB) railway project that could cost over $7 billion.

The revival of the New Clark City as a green and smart city, meanwhile, is taking shape. The planned new metropolis seeks to position itself as a premier industrial hub that can attract local and foreign investors.

With the proximity of the Subic port and Clark International airport, the Clark Freeport is attracting both local and foreign investors.

Singapore is lending its hand to develop New Clark City after the recent visit of Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to the Philippines.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang presented the government’s vision of transforming New Clark City into an industrial hub where Singaporean businesses can contribute.

The BCDA teamed up with Surbana Jurong of Singapore in drawing up New Clark City’s Comprehensive Master Development Plan, leveraging on Singapore’s expertise in smart city development.

More investments are coming. Early last

month, Federal Express Corp., one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, said it was expanding its operations in the Clark gateway.

FedEx signed an agreement with Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp. (LIPAD), operator and manager of Clark Airport, to build a new facility to support the growing demand for e-commerce, freight and cold-chain shipments across the Asia Pacific region.

The new FedEx facility, once completed, will more than double the size of its current capacity.

“We are pleased to sign this agreement that symbolizes our intent to kick-start the expansion of our gateway at Clark,” says Maribeth Espinosa, managing director of FedEx Philippines. Just last week, BB International Leisure and Resort Development Corp. (BBILRDC) of Taiwan expressed an interest to invest another P15 billion for a new eco-conscious integrated township in Clark Freeport.

The investment will fund the development of the 101-hectare Midori Highlands—an innovative project that blends green living with modern urban amenities, including high-rise condominiums and a logistics center.

BBILRDC president Wun Xu Wu stressed the project’s sustainable features, such as rainwater collection, solar power generation and energy-efficient transportation.

A state housing development will also accommodate future workers in Clark Freeport. Clark Development Corp. (CDC), the administrator

By Jenniffer B. Austria

PROPERTY developer Megaworld Corp. reported Wednesday a 9-percent growth in the first-half net income on the back of a double-digit growth in sales.

to

Consolidated revenues in the sixmonth period jumped 22 percent to P39.1 billion, as core residential, mall and hotel businesses delivered strong growth. Real estate sales surged 30 percent to P24.82 billion, driven by strong bookings and high demand for residential properties in various township developments, particularly in Taguig City, Cavite, Bulacan, Palawan and Cebu.

The company launched P18 billion worth of residential projects in the second quarter.

These include 9 Central Park-West Wing at Northwin Global City in Bulacan; One Portwood Residences at Newport City in Pasay City; CostaVida Residential Resort at The Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu; Lialto Beach and Golf Estates-Phase 1 at Lialto Beach and Golf Estates in Lian, Batangas; and Sonrisa Gardens

With the proximity of the Subic port and Clark International airport, the Clark Freeport is attracting both local and foreign investors.

of Clark Freeport, and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development are planning build 50,000 housing units in Clark.

“Clark is one of the areas where expansion of development outside the National Capital Region is very ideal. Apart from its proximity to Metro Manila, it already has modern infrastructures that are necessary in a sustainable township,” says housing czar Jose Rizalino Acuzar

Underpinning Clark’s renaissance is the planned P8.5-billion National Food Hub rising within the boundaries of Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) in Clark Freeport and the Subic-Batangas railway.

The food hub and railway projects are the major features of the highly touted Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC)―the result of the summit between the US, Japan and the Philippines in April.

The food hub envisions a state-of-the-art facility replicating advanced agro-logistics systems from Asia and Europe. It aims to elevate food safety standards and provide better opportunities

at Baytown Palawan in Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

“We continue to see robust demand for our residential properties outside of Metro Manila. Before the year ends, we hope to launch more projects in the provinces as we remain on track to finish 2024 with 35 townships,” said Megaworld president Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso.

Sales from hotels and resorts surged 38 percent to P2.36 billion amid the resurgence of MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions) activities and local tourism.

Mall revenues increased 19 percent to P3.02-billion, driven by higher tenant sales and increased foot traffic.

Occupancy rates remained high at 93 percent as of end-June 2024 despite the addition of 17,400 square meters of commercial spaces in the first half.

Revenues from office business remained stable at P6.31 billion despite the headwinds faced by the Philippine office industry.

for local farmers, fisherfolk and growers. The railway project, meanwhile, seeks to streamline logistics, reduce transportation costs and promote better economic integration. Stretching 250 kilometers, it will link Subic and Batangas ports and pass through Metro Manila.

The cargo and freight service of the proposed railway will surely enhance the connectivity between Subic Bay, Clark, Manila and Batangas once the LEC is firmly established. It is intended for cargo trains and is distinct from the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR), which is currently under construction. The NSCR is designed for passenger transportation and is estimated to cost P873.62 billion once completed in five years.

The proposed freight service between Clark airport and Subic port alone is a boon to the Subic Special Economic and Freeport Zone and Clark Freeport. Linking these hubs to the big ports of Batangas and Manila is another game changer. Subic, Clark. Manila and Batangas comprise 80 percent of all port traffic nationwide.

The new growth corridor will speed up investments in high-impact infrastructure projects, including the NSCR, ports modernization, clean energy, semiconductor supply chains and agribusiness.

Clark Freeport and New Clark City, along with the LEC, are the new wave of urban planning. They are the emerging economic hubs that will supplant Metro Manila.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extranstory2000@gmail.com

GC POWERLIST. Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI) general counsels Ariel Gonzales, Marie Antoinette Pascua and Christine

Angelica Felix receives the GC Powerlist Philippines certificate from V&A Law Managing Partner Sylvette Tankiang (center). The Office of the General Counsel of GSMI, maker of the world’s largest-selling gin, is named as one of the Legal 500’s GC Powerlist Philippines Teams 2024, a prestigious listing of the country’s premier in-house legal teams. Globally respected research firm Legal 500, through

SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE. Security Bank and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines build food sheds to provide livelihood for farmers and serve households with fresh local produce in Barangay Hilamonan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental. The project is WWF-Philippines’ agriculture-based livelihood intervention that promotes the sustainable production of crops and poultry products for local access to fresh and quality food.

FINANCE Secretary Ralph Recto said Wednesday the government signed financing agreements with the Government of Korea, through the ExportImport Bank of Korea (KEXIM), on the new Dumaguete Airport Development Project and the latest Economic Development Promotion Facility (EDPF) that will deliver more infrastructure projects nationwide.

“The new airport will enhance our capacity to welcome a surge of tourists in the post-pandemic era. With the new Dumaguete airport, we anticipate accommodating up to 2.5 million passengers per year, up from just 800,000. From serving limited domestic flights,

we can now open the door to international routes,” Recto said during the exchange of notes and signing ceremony on Aug. 7, 2024. The new Dumaguete City Airport project, with a total cost of P17.06 billion, with about P13.15 billion coming

By Alena Mae S. Flores

CITICORE Renewable Energy Corp.

(CREC) said Wednesday it is strongly committed to the delivery of 5 gigawatts in five years, highlighting its upward performance and continued sustained track record.

CREC is constructing the first gigawatt of its 5-GW goal in eight project locations nationwide, driven by its engineering DNA and its end-to-end development and operational capabilities.

“We have laid down our tracks for the past 8 years, and we remain confident in our ability to deliver. Not only are we blazing forward knowing how critical our business offering is to the pressing issues of our country, but we are taking our investors through this journey of powering a first-world Philippines with pure renewable energy,” said CREC president Oliver Tan.

CREC has a combined gross installed capacity of 285 MW from its 10 solar power facilities strategically located around the Philippines.

The company posted P3.68 billion revenue in 2023, a 32 percent increase against the previous year, from three main revenue streams: sale of electricity, currently the largest profit driver; lease income arising from operating lease agreements of Citicore Energy REIT Corp. (CREIT) and service fees. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization also improved to P1.51 billion, a 10-percent increase from P1.37 billion in the previous year, while net income rose 9 percent to P910 million from P834 million.

“We built up speed through a combination of pioneering financing activities, securing new projects, sustaining pipeline delivery, and strengthening our foundations in ESG,” Tan said in his report during CREC’s first annual stockholders meeting. CREC is also ramping up its renewable energy developments after being awarded several projects under the Department of Energy’s Green Energy Auction Program 2.

The company was awarded the largest solar capacity of 430 MW for ground-mounted solar and 362 MW of onshore wind, totaling 792MW.

OLYMPIC double-gold medalist Carlos Yulo will receive another house in Batangas province worth P6 million from Century Properties Group.

PHirst, the first-home brand of listed CPG, said it would award a house-andlot package to Yulo for his outstanding achievement in winning two gold medals in gymnastics at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“On behalf of PHirst and the entire Century Properties Group, we extend our sincerest gratitude and heartfelt congratulations to Carlos Yulo for his historic double gold in the Olympics, bringing pride to the Philippines,” said Amb. Jose Antonio, CPG executive chairman.

“We also extend our congratulations to Cynthia Carreon, President of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines for the stewardship and guidance of Carlos Yulo all through the years,” Antonio said.

“We at PHirst celebrate Yulo’s triumph. His story represents the journey of every Filipino toward their dreams. We are honored to offer Carlos a ‘home of many firsts’ and wish him continued success as he pursues his dreams and creates more memorable moments both on a

sional and personal level,” said Ricky

lis, president of PHirst

Homes Inc. and Century PHirst Corp.

CPG is presenting Yulo with a house and lot at its PHirst Editions Batulao project in Nasugbu. The single attached home, coincidentally named Charles – translating to Carlos in Spanish – is valued at P6 million, CPG said.

from KEXIM, covers 197.55 hectares of land development in the municipality of Bacong, Negros Oriental. It involves the construction of a new airport facility that complies with domestic and international standards for operational safety and efficiency.

It is envisioned to enhance the tourism and trade potential, economic activities and standard of living in the province.

“The necessity for a bigger and more modern airport is undeniable, especially considering that Negros Oriental currently has only one major airport,” Recto said.

Recto said that aside from Dumaguete, the government was looking at upgrading more regional airports in the country to ensure that the fruits of growth and modernization reach every island in the archipelago.

“We are making sure that no destination is left behind,” he said.

A sari-sari store owner shows her Growsari app which can be used to pay for grocery items. Growsari is now also the largest women entrepreneur platform in the region, serving stores in over 400 municipalities. Growsari recently welcomed a new strategic partner, Oppenheimer Generations Asia (OGA) through a $5-million investment in Growsari shares.

By Othel V. Campos

GROWSARI, a leading e-B2B platform in Southeast Asia, announced a $5-million strategic partnership with Oppenheimer Generations Asia (OGA).

The collaboration aims to further empower the 100,000 sari-sari stores in the Philippines through Growsari’s innovative platform, which offers B2B e-commerce (SariMart), MSME financial services (SariPay) and last-mile logistics (Tranko).

OGA, known for its extensive experience investing in sustainable businesses in developing markets, aligns with Growsari’s mission of empowering micro-entrepreneurs through technology.

Since its last funding round in 2022, Growsari has experienced more than double revenue growth and is nearing profitability.

“We are excited to partner with the Oppenheimer team. They bring a shared vision of tech based enablement of micro-entrepreneurs and of the bright future of the Philippines, while bringing a new perspective from their experience in other emerging markets,” said Shiv Choudhury, co-founder of Growsari.

Growsari is the largest platform in the e-B2B space in Southeast Asia, providing growth tools to 100,000 neighborhood stores across the Philippines.

Growsari earned several accolades, including Best Brand B2B in Asia E-commerce 2022, Trailblazer Award from Alibaba in Singapore, Innovation in Digital Commercial Financing in BAI Global Awards in the United States, LinkedIn Top 10 Startups of 2022 and Social Impact Award and Customer Excellence Award in the KMC Start Up Awards 2023.

By Othel V. Campos

INFOSYS BPM Philippines, a global leader in business process management (BPM) services, opened a new facility at the Manila House in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

The company said that since its registration with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) in May 2007, it has become a crucial delivery center, offering comprehensive outsourcing solutions to clients worldwide.

Pacific’s profit dropped 5.4% in first half

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CEBU Pacific said Wednesday its net income fell 5.4 percent in the first half of 2024 mostly because of costlier jet fuel prices and weak peso.

Cebu Pacific said its net income amounted P3.54 billion from January to June, down from P3.74 billion in the same period last year.

The group’s revenues reached P51.439 billion, up by 18.1 percent to P43.55 billion a year ago.

Passenger revenues increased 18.4 percent to P35.68 billion from P30.12 billion due to the overall increase in travel demand.

Passenger volume went up by 12.1 percent, while average fares increased 5.7 percent to P3,101. Cargo revenues rose 31.9 percent to P2.63 billion from P1.99 billion on the back of a 26.8-percent increase in cargo volume, coupled with 4-percent increase in cargo yield.

The group incurred operating expenses of P45.95 billion, higher by 15.5 percent than P39.790 billion incurred in the same period last year.

“The increase was mainly driven by the increase in flight activity, since a material portion of its expenses are based on flights and flight hours,” Cebu Pacific said.

The company said the weakening of the Philippine peso against the US dollar from an average of 55.25 to 56.91 against the greenback, based on the Philippine Bloomberg Valuation (PH BVAL) weighted average rates, also contributed to the increase in operating expenses.

Infosys BPM said its commitment to the Philippines is evident in its continued expansion and investment in the country.

The new facility serves to further strengthen Infosys BPM Philippines to providing top-notch services and fostering growth within the local ITBPM industry.

The IT-BPM sector remains a significant driver of investment in the Philippines, with PEZA

By Ralph Harvey Rirao

HE gross international reserves of the Philippines climbed to a 28-month high in July 2024 on higher gold holdings and foreign investments of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

The BSP said the GIR amounted to $105.65 billion as of end-July 2024, up from $105.19 billion in the previous month. It was also higher than $99.95 billion registered a year ago.

Data show that the end-July GIR level was the highest since it reached $107.3 billion in March 2022.

The BSP’s reserve assets consist of foreign investments, gold, foreign exchange, reserve position in the International Monetary Fund and special drawing rights.

reporting over 1,080 registered businesses contributing more than P300 billion in investments and generating employment for over 1 million Filipinos.

Infosys BPM Philippines is a leading provider of end-to-end business process management outsourcing services for clients across the globe. It operates four delivery centers in Taguig, Alabang, Muntinlupa; and Clark, Pampanga and employs over 4,600 professionals.

CitySavings

By Alena Mae S. Flores

VISAYAN Electric Co. (VECO) is seeking approval from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for its capital expenditure (capex) program amounting to P4.273 billion.

Bulk of the capex covers network projects amounting to P962.443 million, followed by other network projects at P577.277 million and non-network projects amounting to P124.523 million.

VECO, a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corp., said in its filing with the ERC that in case its capex program is approved, the estimated rate impact to its customers is around P0.1661 per kilowatt-hour.

It is the power distributor of Naga, Talisay, Cebu and Mandaue and in

Ingrid Power eyes 150-MW battery energy storage facility in Pililla, Rizal

INGRID Power Holdings Inc. plans to put up a 150-megawatt battery energy storage system in Barangay Malaya, Pililla, Rizal with estimated construction cost of P6.875 billion.

Ingrid is the special purpose vehicle of AC Energy Inc. and Axia Power Holdings Philippines Corp., a subsidiary of Marubeni Corp. of Japan. The project is in response to the call of the Department of Energy (DOE) in 2019, which released a department circular providing a framework for energy storage system in the electric power industry. The circular provides guidelines on how energy storage systems (ESS), being an emerging technology, “may be utilized to improve the electric power system to ensure quality, reliability, security and affordability of the electric power supply of electric power.” An ESS may be registered to provide ancillary services; provide energy

through bilateral supply contracts or trading in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market; and for the management of the penetration of renewable energy.

Ingrid said in documents submitted to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources that the project would use lithium-ion BESS which has better ageing and cycle life characteristics and is primarily used for energy time-shifting.

“Being primarily offered in containerized solutions, these batteries allow convenient installation and are easily scalable for future expansions. Among the most mature and commercially available battery technologies in the market, lithium-ion batteries have relatively high specific energy, energy density and specific power. This technology is also safe to operate and has minimal environmental impact during construction and operation,” the company said. Alena Mae S. Flores

the municipalities of San Fernando, Minglanilla, Consolacion and Lilo-an in Cebu province.

VECO said the rate impact is only indicative and would be finalized during its rate reset process.

“To pursue its mandate under the EPIRA [Electric Power Industry Reform Act], it is necessary for Visayan Electric to continuously invest in the improvement of its system and services to better serve its customers,” the company said.

VECO’s capex projects include the Pakna-an substation rehabilitation which is one of the earliest substations built within the franchise area. Its rehabilitation will ensure the safe and reliable operation of the equipment in the substation during normal

CULTURAL PROPERTY.

Representatives from the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) and National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) unveil a marker declaring the building of BPI Cebu Main branch as an Important Cultural Property (ICP). Attending the event are (from left) NMP director Ma. Cecilia Tirol, BPI consumer banking head Ginbee Go, BPI president and chief executive TG Limcaoco, Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, Ayala Corp. and BPI chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, NMP board of trustees chairman Andoni Aboitiz and NCAA head of enforcement section Vanessa Nicolas.

operation and contingency situations. It also includes the installation of the New Mambaling Substation power transformer to address potential substation capacity deficiency of the interconnected group of substations.

Other capex projects include the installation of the Subangdaku Substation project, installation of meters, voltage correction and capacitor bank installation and maintenance, line rehabilitation and maintenance.

VECO’s capex also involves the New Visayan Electric Naga substation and other related south subtransmission capacity addition projects to augment the transformer capacity and address the reliability deficiency in the Southern-most area of its franchise.

The BSP said that by convention, the GIR is viewed to be adequate if it can finance at least three-months’ worth of the country’s imports of goods and payments of services and primary income.

It said the latest GIR was also about 6.1 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 3.8 times based on residual maturity.

Short-term debt based on residual maturity refers to outstanding external debt with original maturity of one year or less, plus principal payments on medium- and long-term loans of the public and private sectors falling due within the next 12 months.

The BSP said the level of GIR is considered adequate, if it provides at least 100-percent cover for the payment of the country’s foreign liabilities, public and private, falling due within the immediate 12-month period.

“The month-on-month increase in the GIR level reflected mainly the upward valuation adjustments in the BSP gold holdings due to the increase in the price of gold in the international market, net income from the BSP’s investments abroad and the national government’s net foreign currency deposits with the BSP,” the BSP said. It said the latest GIR level represents a more than adequate external liquidity buffer equivalent to 7.8 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income.

IN BRIEF

BRIGADA ESKWELA. City Savings Bank (CitySavings), the thrift bank of Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines, teams up with the Department of Education (DepEd) and other community partners for the weeklong Brigada Eskwela from July 22 to 27, 2024. Joining the Brigada Eskwela 2024 national kick-off at Carmen National High School in Carmen, Cebu are Vice President and former Education Secretary Sara Duterte (center) and

volunteers.

Local Chinese teachers receive financial rewards

By Michael Wong Ho

THE Association of Chinese Filipino Schools in the Philippines (ACFSP) launched the “Respecting Teachers and Respecting Disciples Incentives” project to support and honor local Chinese educators.

The initiative aims to encourage local Chinese teachers to remain in their roles and continue preserving traditional Chinese culture.

Dubbed as “Root Project” by the Filipino Chinese community, it will provide allowances to in-service and retired teachers starting Sept. 14, 2024.

In-service teachers will receive P2,000 each, while retired teachers will be given P10,000 each.

The project received strong support from the Filipino Chinese community.

The Federation of Filipino-Chinese Associations of the Philippines donated P1 million, raising their total contribution to P4.5 million.

ACFSP chairman Ye Qi Ming, the principal of Chiang Kai Shek College, visited the federation’s office on July 29, 2024 to accept the check.

Chen Zhuo Yuan, founder and advisor of the Filipino Chinese Amateur Athletics Federation, personally contributed P1 million, increasing his total donation to P2 million.

The Philippine Chinese Commerce and Industry Overseas Association Inc. also contributed P300,000, raising its total contribution to P600,000.

The generous donations underscore the strong commitment within the community to support educational initiatives and uphold Chinese cultural traditions.

FFCCCII, Ningde foster closer ties at promotion show

THE Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) co-organized Ningde City’s “Economy, Trade, Culture and Tourism Promotion Show” on July 25, 2024 at the federation building’s exhibition hall.

FFCCCII executive vice president Victor Lim, honorary president Tan Ching and Secretary Bai Xun from the Chinese Embassy in Manila’s Economic and Commerce Attaches’ Office attended the event.

Ningde City Mayor Zhang Guang Ning extended his gratitude to FFCCCII, acknowledging the federation’s significant role in the Philippines’ national development.

Zhang expressed hope for strengthened economic and cultural ties between Ningde and the Philippines through the promotion show.

Ningde, located in Fujian Province, China, boasts of a diverse landscape with a total area of 1.34 square kilometers of land and 4.45 square kilometers of sea.

The city features a 1,046-kilometer coastline and is renowned for its natural and cultural attractions, including Ten Miles Water Street, Hundred Miles Gallery, Thousand Miles Waterfall and picturesque coastal wetlands and islands. Ningde’s cultural and tourism markets experienced significant growth in the first half of 2024, leading to its selection as a top tourism destination in East China.

The promotion show provided a platform for exploring potential collaborations and fostering deeper bilateral relations between Ningde and the Philippines. Michael Wong Ho

By Julie Ann Lope

SLim Bon Liong leaves mark in PH farming

Lim Bon Liong made significant contributions to the agricultural and business sector.

“One seed can calm a tribe, stabilize a nation. One seed can change one’s life. One seed can determine one’s destiny. One seed can lead to prosperity.”

TERLING Paper Group of Companies chairman and former Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) president Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong passed away on Aug. 2, 2024 at the age of 72.

A graduate of engineering from the University of the Philippines-Diliman and business courses from Ateneo de Manila University and Harvard Business School, Dr.

At just 25, he assumed responsibility for his family and their business following the unexpected death of his father in Hong Kong in 1976.

As the eldest child, he stepped into the presidency of Sterling Co. The early years were filled with challenges, but his determination to honor his father’s memory fueled his success.

Under his leadership, the Sterling Group grew into a diverse conglomerate, expanding its interests to include school and office supplies, residential and commercial property development, business process outsourcing and agribusiness.

In the late 1990s, Lim Bon Liong, inspired by China’s success in combating food shortages through hybrid rice, began researching rice production and formed a partnership with Prof. Yuan Long Ping, the “Father of Hybrid Rice.”

The collaboration led to the establishment of SL Agritech Corp. (SLAC) on Sept. 11, 2000, with the goal of promoting hybrid rice technology in the Philippines.

His commitment to this goal is beautifully captured in his famous statement:

His relentless efforts to promote hybrid rice technology from China have left an indelible mark on the nation’s agricultural landscape.

FFCCCII President Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro said, “Dr. Henry Lim Lon Biong’s passing represents a profound loss not only to the Filipino-Chinese community and the business sector but to the entire country.”

“As a passionate advocate for Philippine-China friendship and economic cooperation, Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong played a pivotal role in fostering closer ties between our nations,” he said.

Lim Bong Liong also served as an intermediary for the Philippine government in the receipt of one million antiCOVID vaccines donated by the Chinese government.

During his tenure as FFCCCII president and chairman of the Filipino-Chinese Community Calamity Fund, Lim Lon Biong and his team donated over half a billion pesos worth of medical supplies and relief goods during the COVID-19 pandemic and in response to calamities such as typhoons and the Taal Volcano disturbances.

Filipino Chinese groups roll out relief operations for flood victims

Representatives from the Chinese Embassy, the Philippine Buddhism Federation Inc. and the Seng Guan Buddhist Temple distribute relief packs for Typhoon Carina victims.

IN the heart of Manila’s historic Binondo district, a unique café concept has emerged that blends coffee culture with the serene beauty of betta fish.

The place, named Cafe Aquatica, is a cafe and concept store that integrates a love for aquatic life with an exceptional dining experience.

Kenbert Chua, a passionate pet enthusiast, always dreamed of opening his own shop. After achieving notable success in various local and international betta competitions, including being inducted into the Hall of Fame in the Philippines and becoming an endorser for Atison’s Betta PRO of Belgium, he transformed his dream into reality.

The concept for a unique themed cafe emerged, one that would serve delicious meals in a relaxing atmosphere while featuring a souvenir shop

offering premium betta fi sh and an Underwater Waterfalls Aquarium.

With a mission to provide a memorable dining experience through a commitment to high-quality food and a connection to nature, Chua, along with his friends Jet Umali and architect Jim Lester Co, brought Cafe Aquatica to life in 2016.

It is not just another coffee shop; it’s a thoughtfully curated space where patrons can enjoy expertly crafted beverages while immersed in a tranquil aquatic environment.

The café’s name pays homage to the aquatic theme that runs throughout its design and concept.

Even though the space is compact, its interior shines with sleek decor featuring delightful aquariums that create a wonderfully calming atmosphere.

The café’s menu is as impressive as its dé-

THE Chinese Embassy in Manila, in collaboration with the Philippine Buddhism Federation Inc., the Seng Guan Buddhist Temple, Senator Imee Marcos and Vice Mayor Yul Servo Nieto, delivered relief packs to residents of Barangay 242 affected by Typhoon Carina last month.

The activity, dubbed as the “Filipino Chinese Friendship Relief Operations,” took place at the Seng Guan Temple in Manila on July 30, 2024.

The groups distributed 10,000 kilograms of rice, 2,000 bags of bread and 10,000 T-shirts to families who were affected by floods caused by Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon.

Chinese Embassy director Wang Wen Hao, Consul Cao Kai Wen, along with representatives from various Binondo associations, also attended the event.

The relief operation not only addressed urgent needs but also underscored the strong spirit of solidarity and cooperation among various groups in the community.

Before this, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xi Lian and Vice Mayor Nieto personally handed out relief goods worth over P3.5 million to the typhoon victims in Manila on July 27, 2024.

The relief packages contained rice, canned food and dry noodles for the affected families. Michael Wong Ho

bagnet chips, nacho cups, aquatica clubhouse, gambastic pasta, rosa’s pork burger and spaghetti bolognese. Julie Ann Lope

FFCCCII leads distribution of relief packs in Luzon

THE Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) worked with the Chinese Embassy in Manila and 33 other major associations, institutions and members of the Filipino at Tsino Magkaibigan Foundation to launch a calamity fund drive and comprehensive relief initiative to support communities affected by Typhoon Carina.

FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro announced during the Pandesal

The Filipino-Chinese community pools resources to reward local Chinese educators. FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro (fourth from left) and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora

Café Aquatica

Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com NICKIE

Editor Writer Writer

The song, written by Jason Dedal and arranged by Brian Lotho, is produced by Insight 360 Music, the label run by public relations expert and filmmaker Chris Cahilig

“I’m excited to share ‘Buti Na Lang’ because we put a lot of effort into making the song and music video the best they can be. I hope it connects with Filipino audiences,” said Los about the single, which was launched on Aug. 2.

The song is about opening up to a new chance at love, reflecting Los’ own decision to pursue an entertainment career instead of returning to the corporate world.

Los worked with student director Dizelle C. Masilungan, whom he collaborated with on the film Kung Nag-aatubili, for the music video. The team also includes Denver Kyle Pangilinan as assistant director and colorist, Anton Stefano Acosta as director of photography and editor, Veronica Caridad as production designer, Dang Calumba as line producer, and Tatjana Deocareza and Marian Jayce Tiongzon as production assistants. Los the actor

Los showed his acting potential with a standout performance in the short film Kung Nag-aatubli, earning him the Best Supporting Actor award at the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2024.

“Winning this award was a big moment for me. It made me feel like I have a place in this industry,” said the promising singer and actor.

Born in Quezon City and raised

in San Pablo City, Laguna, Los values family connections.

“Our family sees each other so often that we don’t have reunions,” he shared. Although he has Japanese heritage, he has not yet visited Japan but is eager to explore his

DESCRIBING

“Sino Ang Baliw” as just another great creation by composer Mon Del Rosario is an understatement. This song, recorded by Kuh Ledesma and performed live by several artists, including Angel Andal, who impressed audiences with her rendition on The Voice Kids Philippines, is a standout work.

“Sino Ang Baliw” was Del Rosario’s breakthrough song, winning the grand prize at the prestigious Metropop Songfest and becoming a mainstream hit.

Del Rosario’s dedication to this song is evident in his ongoing work on a musical based on it, a project he has been developing for nearly 40 years. This long-term commitment underscores

Hit in the making: P-pop’s newest sensation drops debut single

Very Wang Nickie Wang

roots.

The youngest of five siblings, all of whom are scholars, Los credits his early success to his supportive family, especially his mother, who encouraged his passions.

EHe graduated Cum Laude with a degree in Management Engineering from Ateneo de Manila University, a challenging course known for good job prospects. While excelling academically, he also pursued his love for performing arts through the high school Glee Club and continued with theater and acting in university.

In addition to his diverse talents, Los enjoys sports like volleyball and swimming, and hobbies such as cooking, woodworking, and metalworking. He also loves traveling and learning about new topics.

With his debut single out, Los plans to take on more roles, work in feature films, and improve his skills in different artistic fields, including music.

artist Los Akiyama has made his solo Pinoy Pop (P-pop) debut with the release of his single “Buti Na Lang” along with an official music video.

He hopes to become a leading actor, direct his own films, and create meaningful work that resonates with audiences and contributes to Philippine cinema.

“Put yourself out there. Today, there are many ways to create, share your talent, and connect with people. Be genuine and true to yourself in everything you do,” Los said.

To watch the music video of Los’s debut single, visit https:// youtu.be/JbyxLeeVEw.

For inquiries, collaborations, or media requests, contact Insight 360 Music or Chris Cahilig at chriscahilig@ insight360ph.com.

the significance he places on this composition.

“I will always consider ‘Sino ang Baliw’ as my most important composition because the internal narrative in the lyrics transcends time and will always be relevant even in the coming generations,” said Del Rosario, the hitmaker with a medical degree whose experience as a medical student led him to write the song that essentially put him on the map.

The then-budding musical artist was on duty at the UST (University of Santos Tomas) Psychiatry Ward when he was inspired to write a song while “observing the behavior of patients there.” He felt he wanted to explore the figurative meanings surrounding the word “baliw” (crazy).

In a phone chat with the “Doctor Musico” who’s among my treasured friends in the music business, he informed me that he started working on Sino Ang Baliw the Musical in 1982, just a year after the song won the highly competitive Metropop on its fourth edition. He noted that “in retrospect,’ the passage of time enabled him to “integrate more universal characters in the story.”

Mondel, as I prefer to call him, described the musical as semi-

fantasy with “Sino Ang Baliw” as centerpiece, backed by some of his other hit compositions like “Tamis Ng Unang Halik” which That’s Entertainment talent Kristina Paner popularized. He said it features mostly new songs or 80 percent of it.

others, to a live version performed by Lea Salonga at a big theater outside of the Philippines.

He expressed in amusement, “Until now, I still cannot believe that the song won the Grand Prize (at Metropop) because I had no grand expectations about the song. Perhaps, it was an idea whose time has come!” As to what has kept him from finishing the musical all these years, he joked that other music-related projects, like film scoring or serving as head judge at ASOP (A Song of Praise) songwriting festival, made him defocused for good reasons. A self-taught arranger, Mondel, who considers OPM pioneers Snaffu Rigor and Homer Flores as mentors and dearest friends who helped him learn the ins and outs of the biz, has served as musical director for around 400 films.

The tunesmith behind other now-classics like “Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig” (popularized by Imelda Papin) and “Boy” (Timmy Cruz) said that his son Raymond, who used to be the lead guitarist of a signed band called Craeons, is taking care of the business matter of putting together a musical as he concentrates on the creative side.

He mentioned a couple of notable theater artists and singers he wishes to appear in the “Sino Ang Baliw the musical” that pays tribute to his craft, especially the song that has impactfully earned him both the respect of industry peers and the general listening public. There is not yet a definite date as to when the musical can be performed on stage. But the fact he hoped it would happen later this year means it could be anytime soon.

Mondel himself interpreted “Sino Ang Baliw” at Metropop. He got endeared, as do countless

Labeling himself as “a songwriter who sings, and not the other way around,” the successful melodist and lyricist shared, “I did finish a medical degree in college but somehow, it was hard to refuse the call of the muses after I graduated. Music was like a ‘curse’ that I cannot rid myself of. It was even more difficult to escape when the royalty revenues started to come in. Such a sweet curse!”

Oddly enough, the first song Mondel completed writing was one called “Ang Butiki.” He certainly has crawled his way up.

Outside of the music industry, Del Rosario does business consultancy specializing in copyright Licensing. He is also a triple licensed financial planner. When asked where he owes his brilliance, he quipped in his natural tone of humility, “Daig ng songwriter na masipag ang songwriter na magaling!”

Composer Mon Del Rosario considers ‘Sino Ang Baliw’ as his most important work

Singer Angel Andal sang ‘Sino Ang Baliw’ during her time in the reality competition ‘The Voice Kids Philippines’

The official music video for ‘Buti Na Lang’ was directed by Dizelle C. Masilungan

‘Buti Na Lang’ was written by Jason Dedal and arranged by Brian Lotho

Los Akiyama recently won the Best Supporting Actor award at the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2024 for his performance in the film ‘Kung Nag-aatubili’

P-pop artist Los Akiyama makes his debut with the release of ‘Buti Na Lang’

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Betting app recognizes Carlos Yulo’s achievement

By Nickie Wang

BEFORE departing for the Paris Olympics, Carlos “Caloy” Yulo highlighted the importance of his partnership with the betting app, ArenaPlus.

He expressed his gratitude, stating, “Thank you very, very much for recognizing me and wanting to support me.”

During the pre-Olympics sendoff, the 24-year-old athlete promised to give his all to match the support he received. He also thanked everyone for their support and asked for prayers for all the athletes participating in the Olympics.

To honor Caloy’s historic achievement, ArenaPlus is awarding the “Golden Boy” an “Astig Hero Bonus” of P5,000,000 in cash to show their pride and gratitude for his representation of the country at the prestigious event.

FOR MANY busy bees, a day is never complete without their usual comfort drinks like coffee, milk or bubble tea, matcha, or yogurt shake. They may not usually be considered healthy, but these seemingly sinful drinks can be good for the body.

From powerful antioxidants to antiinflammatory properties, your go-to beverage can also bring health benefits in every sip.

“While water should be the undisputed number one drink on your list, adding other kinds of beverages to your daily rotation can also support your health in many ways. They can help you finish your tasks or relax and unwind. Some can even address gut issues,” says Angelo B. Lozada , MD, from the Section of Gastroenterology of the top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “The key is to be smart about it and choose those that provide additional nutritional value, not empty calories.”

DigiPlus, the parent company of ArenaPlus, has supported Caloy since the start of the Olympic Games. As one of ArenaPlus’ official brand ambassadors, the Filipino Olympian received strong support throughout his Olympic journey.

For starters, coffee’s ability to improve brain activity goes beyond letting us finish daily tasks.

Caloy’s hard work and dedication led to his historic win of two gold medals in men’s artistic gymnastics, specifically in the men’s floor and men’s vault exercises. This makes him the second-ever Filipino Olympic gold medalist and the most awarded in history.

DigiPlus chairman Eusebio H. Tanco expressed hopes for Caloy’s future after the Olympics.

“Carlos Yulo truly embodies the ‘astig’ Pinoy spirit,” said the executive. “We couldn’t be prouder of how he has represented both our country and DigiPlus. Our warmest congratulations to him!”

Caloy’s success aligns with ArenaPlus’ goal of promoting a strong interest in sports in the Philippines. With the financial support from ArenaPlus, Caloy now has the means to further improve his skills and training conditions, setting him up for even greater success.

ArenaPlus hopes Caloy’s victory will inspire interest in many types of sports among people from all walks of life. They believe that nurturing young athletes’ interest in various sports is key to achieving the highest potential of Filipino athletes.

DigiPlus, the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country, operates leading digital platforms including BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, PeryaGame, Tongits+, and BingoPlus Poker, with more to come. ArenaPlus, the leading sports betting app in the Philippines, provides various sports live streaming and serves as the leading sports entertainment gateway for Filipinos.

For more information, visit www.digiplus.com.ph arenaplus.ph.

SUNSHINE Place reintroduces Pound Fitness with a dynamic full-body cardio workout that combines drumming and exercise.

This month, join the fun every Monday and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. This exciting class welcomes students of all ages, especially seniors, to dance to the beat while using Ripstix®, lightly weighted drumsticks. The workout not only enhances physical fitness but also engages your musicality. Pound Fitness offers modifications to suit all fitness levels and abilities, making it an ideal choice for everyone.

Participants can choose between paying per session or opting for the 8-session full-course rate. Seniors/ PWDs pay P500 per session or P4,000 for the full course, which includes two additional free sessions, totaling 10 sessions. Regular rates are P700 per session or P5,600 for the full course, also including two free sessions. By enrolling in the full course, participants gain access to at least three different physical activity classes through Sunshine Place’s StepUp Program. Other available

“Caffeine in coffee stimulates the central nervous system to encourage the release of dopamine and serotonin, improving not only attention and learning but also mood and even depression,” reveals Dr. Lozada.

“Coffee is rich in antioxidants that may protect the brain from oxidative stress that leads to cell damage. Studies have shown that drinking a cup of joe daily is also linked to lower chances of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s.”

Wondering why milk tea feels like happiness and comfort in a glass? “It’s likely because its main ingredient—which is black tea in many recipes—contains L-theanine, an amino acid that helps achieve relaxation. It does so by raising gamma-aminobutyric acid, also known as GABA, the neurotransmitter associated with the state of being calm, alleviating stress and anxiety,” shares Dr. Lozada.

Another drink that’s all the rage these days is the earthy matcha, a specific kind of green tea known for its various wellness perks. “One thing that stands out about matcha is that it’s a great source of epigallocatechin-3-gallate, or EGCG, a powerful anti-inflammatory plant compound that has many benefits, especially on gut health,” underlines Dr. Lozada. “Good gut health doesn’t only mean better digestion and regularity; it can also help maintain healthy weight and blood sugar levels, preventing a number of metabolic and chronic diseases.”

Its fresh milky-tangy goodness has made yogurt a popular pick-me-up. While yogurt is best known for providing calcium and probiotics, its protein content also deserves some attention. “Yogurt shakes and smoothies can be taken before a workout to give you the protein you need to burn more and build muscle. You may also opt to have it ready after exercise, as protein also helps you refuel your body,” explains Dr. Lozada.

While these widely popular drinks do offer health benefits, MakatiMed says to still be mindful of how you enjoy your favorite beverage, especially if you’re buying from popular chains.

“If you want a coffee or matcha latte, try healthier options like soy or almond milk. Avoid milk tea add-ons like jelly or tapioca pearls to shave off unwanted calories. For your yogurt shake, pair it with healthy ingredients like fruits and nuts. If you can, ask to lessen the amount of sugar, use a sugar substitute, or avoid any sweetener altogether,” advises Dr. Lozada.

“It’s best to take these drinks as is, plain and simple, to relish their health benefits. The key is mastering self-discipline to resist indulging in the sugary variations of these beverages and to consume them moderately.”

For more information, contact MakatiMed OnCall at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed. net.ph , or visit www.makatimed.net.ph.

Sunshine Place’s Pound Fitness

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2024

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

By Angelica Villanueva

“HOW kind are you to your health? How do you treat your body? How will you take care of your body?”

These were the questions relayed by Healthy Options’ chief executive officer Romy Sia during the launch of the all-natural and organic products retailer Healthy Options’ latest campaign, “Be Kind To Future You.” Sia emphasized that we often mistakenly equate self-kindness with indulgence.

“We always think about being kind to others. But being kind to ourselves, we think about indulging. But, if you think about it, why is it that people in their 40s and 50s start to have all these health problems? It’s because it takes a long time to degrade and destroy your body. So the things

that we do when we’re young, we don’t know that it has an effect in the future,” stated Sia.

He then pointed out that the initiative aims to inspire Filipinos to prioritize their well-being and make healthier choices for a better future.

“No matter what age we are, we need to start thinking about ourselves, that we should be very particular about what we put in our body. Try to get lots of sleep, as much as you can. Because all of this has an impact in the future. Always think about what you do will always have an impact on yourself in the future,” he continued. The campaign emphasizes the

Healing trauma through art in free public lecture

DR. RENE Samaniego, a practicing psychiatrist and psychotherapist from the Makati Medical Center Department of Neurosciences, will focus on the effects of the interactions of tangible components and emotional resonance in a free public lecture. He will also talk about the transformative power of art in healing human traumas.

Inspired by the works of Heidi Bucher, a groundbreaking Swiss artist of the international neo-avant-garde, and her investigation of textures and surfaces, he will expound on the relationships between surface, identity, memory, and trauma.

The former Philippine Psychiatric Association President served as a faculty of the Carl Jung Circle Center, a learning center for Jungian and Depth Psychology. He is currently the Secretary of Education and Training of the Asian Federation of Psychiatric Associations (AFPA), and a member and country representative of the Global Alliance for Mental Health Advocates.

Dr. Samaniego is a part-time faculty staff of the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health. He completed his residency in psychiatry at the Makati Medical Center. He later pursued further training in Psychosomatic Medicine at the George Washington University in Washington D.C. and InovaFairfax Hospital in Falls Church, Virginia, U.S.A.

A fellow of the Philippine Psychiatric Association and a diplomate of the Philippine Board of Psychiatry, he likewise completed a visitors training course on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy at The Beck Institute in Bala Cynwyd, Philadelphia.

Organized by the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), the talk is free and open to the public.

It will be conducted at the MCAD Multimedia Room, Benilde Design + Arts Campus, Dominga Street, Malate, Manila on Aug. 15, at 3:00 p.m.

Interested participants may register through MCADIdentity.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook. com/MCADManila mcadmanila.org.ph/.

Why people should treat their bodies kindly

importance of investing in health today for future benefits. Healthy Options believes that small, sustainable lifestyle changes can greatly improve quality of life and prevent health issues.

Since starting in 1995 with one store in Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City, Healthy Options has grown to 34 stores nationwide, offering natural products. Sia, inspired by the difficulty of finding clean, artificial-free food for his son in Manila, opened the store after seeing the popularity of natural foods in the US. He aimed to provide Filipinos with access to all-natural and organic staples. Today, Healthy Options is committed to helping people live longer, healthier lives.

The “Be Kind to Future You” campaign encourages small, impactful daily choices. By focusing on clean, natural ingredients, understanding

labels, and committing to well-being, people can develop habits that benefit their health and the planet.

As part of the campaign, Healthy Options hosted a wellness day for the media. Guests made personalized healthy snacks from organic, additive-free trail mix ingredients. They consulted with a nutritionist for customized plans to incorporate clean, natural ingredients into their diets.

Parents led their babies and kids to a taste test of organic snacks from Happy Baby. Attendees also tried clean, cruelty-free personal care products and all-natural pastries from Baking Therapy. They were encouraged to bring recyclable Healthy Options and Solgar supplement bottles for their next visit, with collection stations in the store.

The event also offered valuable insights for health enthusiasts, emphasizing that a wellness journey should be personal and meaningful.

“You have to think about yourself. I know we spend a lot of money buying branded products. Invest in your health, invest in your body,” Sia added.

Healthy Options offers a variety of all-natural and organic products

Each product also features refreshing fragrances which were developed together with French master perfumer Anne Flipo

LAVOJOY believes bath time should be a sanctuary—a chance to unwind and rejuvenate. That is why the brand introduces a new range of personal care products designed to transform your daily bathing routine into moments of pure indulgence and relaxation. The line includes shampoos, conditioners, and body care products, each crafted to ensure your hair and skin look and feel fabulous. Every product is meticulously crafted with premium ingredients to nourish and pamper, making your selfcare routine an enjoyable and luxurious experience.

Formulated in Australia with the expertise of Ron Guba , a leading authority in the therapeutic use of essential oils, Lavojoy’s products are designed to address various health concerns. The range also features refreshing fragrances developed in collaboration with French master perfumer Anne Flipo , known for her work with brands such as YSL, Burberry, Jo Malone London, and Chloé.

For those struggling with hair loss, Lavojoy’s Hold Me Tight Pro Shampoo and Conditioner are here to help. The shampoo promotes hair growth with Kopexil and caffeine, while the conditioner strengthens hair from the roots with veganfriendly ingredients like ginseng, ginger, and a blend of nourishing oils. To combat dandruff effectively, try Lavojoy’s Out of My Head Shampoo and Conditioner. The shampoo, enriched with amino acids, Piroctone Olamine, and Salicylic Acid, cleanses the scalp and reduces itching. The conditioner, featuring Keratin and Aloe Vera, repairs damaged hair and prevents split ends.

For dry and damaged hair, Lavojoy offers the So So So Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner. These products, enriched with Hyaluronic Acid, Amino Acid, and Squalene, reduce frizz, seal in moisture, and rebuild hair strength.

Achieve radiant skin with the Let It Glow Body Wash and Serum. These products, containing Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ceramides, brighten, hydrate, and protect your skin, giving it a healthier appearance. Lavojoy’s Solve It Now Body Wash and Serum tackle body acne with a blend of Zinc PCA, AHA, BHA, and botanical essences. These ingredients regulate sebum production, exfoliate dead skin cells, and soothe irritated skin. Lavojoy products are available exclusively at Watsons and SM Beauty and online through Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop.

Lavojoy offers products with premium ingredients which address various health concerns

Healthy Options CEO Romy Sia aims to inspire Filipino to make better choices for their health

Attendees of the event were able to make their own personalized healthy snacks