COAST GUARD VESSEL ON ITS WAY TO ESCODA SHOAL—NSC CHIEF
By Rex Espiritu
THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has sent a ship to Escoda Shoal as a replacement for the BRP Teresa Magbanua, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said yesterday.
"Our Coast Guard has already sent a replacement but because of the weather, it has to take shelter first," he said.
"It will continue with its journey
Brother of ex-Duterte adviser apprehended
Barbers: Arrest ‘breakthrough’ in POGO, EJK probe
By Vito Barcelo and Maricel Cruz
THE older brother of the economic adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested by Immigration agents at the NAIA Terminal 3 Thursday evening.
by
Yang Jian Xin,
the
(FSU) and Intelligence Division (ID) in cooperation with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).
He is the brother Michael Yang, Duterte’s ex-adviser who has been linked to allegedly illegal POGO activities and drug operations, as well as to the Pharmally scandal involving allegedly overpriced COVID-19 medical supplies sold to the government during Duterte’s term.
The elder Yang, who also uses the alias Antonio Lim and Tony Yang,
CALL. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. receives H.E.
Subianto, President-elect of the Republic of Indonesia, who paid him a courtesy call at Malacañan Palace yesterday.
A CONFESSED member of alleged sex offender Apollo Quiboloy’s armed enforcers called the “Angels of Death” has surrendered to police and agreed to tell all about the religious leader’s intimate exploits with underage “pastorals” as well as what they did to keep them quiet.
By Maricel V. Cruz and Rolando Ng III
The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced Friday that the unnamed would-be former member of Quiboloy’s “private army” is presently under the protection of the Police Regional Office 11 (PRO-11), whose jurisdiction encompasses the Davao Region.
VP Sara surprises Leni Robredo with visit in Naga
Mar Romual
By Pot Chavez , Vince Lopez and Maricel V. Cruz
JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed on Friday that arrest warrants or commitment orders have already been issued against disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo and 15 other co-accused on qualified trafficking charges.
“The arrest warrants issued by the
By Rio N. Araja
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) may have a lead on the present location of ex-presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who is under investigation by the House of Representatives for his ties to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming
Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 167 merely confirmed the findings of our prosecutors of the alleged involvement of Guo and others in the qualified trafficking case,” said Remulla. He added, “the law must take its course, it is time for Guo and coaccused to face the charges against them in Court.”
He stressed that “the detention of Alice Guo and Walter Wong Long, as well as the pending arrest orders against their cohorts is testament that the wheels of justice are efficiently rolling towards the right direction.” Remulla urges other co-accused to immediately surrender without hesitation or asking for any condition because “the law will definitely catch up with you.”
“Without giving specifics, we received some information [on] the possible whereabouts of Atty. Harry Roque but we really cannot say where because it might hamper our efforts to [to arrest him],” PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo told reporters in a mixture of Filipino and English.
In a four-page order dated September 19, the Court has found
The PNP has activated "tracker teams" especially to apprehend the Duterte stalwart. Meanwhile, youth members of the progressive political group Akbayan on Friday plastered “wanted” posters of Roque in Quezon City to help authorities find and arrest him.
Khylla Meneses, Akbayan Youth secretary general, urged Roque to surrender to authorities and face the investigation into his POGO links.
Prabowo
By Maricel Cruz and Caloy Lozada
Noveno
TIES THAT BIND. Yang Jian Xin, also known as Antonio Maestrado Lim, was arrested at NAIA Terminal on Thursday night. He is the brother of Michael Yang, fourth from left, economic adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Together with Yang, Alice Guo, (from left to right), Cassandra Ong, and former Duterte spokesperson Harry Roque have been linked to illegal activities of POGOS in the country.
54, was arrested
elements of
Bureau of Immigration’s Fugitive Search Unit
ALICE GUO CASSANDRA ONG
HARRY ROQUE
MICHAEL YANG
Hacking issues put 28-m passports at risk—DFA
OVER 28 million Filipino passport holders could have their personal data compromised as the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is yet to install a robust cybersecurity system, a ranking official said on Thursday.
DFA Office of Consular Affairs Assistant Secretary Adelio Cruz raised this possibility during a Senate finance subcommittee hearing on the proposed P27.4-billion budget of the agency for 2025. He told the senators that vulnerabilities in their system remain a deep
Brother...
From A1
arrived from a Cebu Pacific flight from Cagayan de Oro when he was arrested.
The House Quad Committee hailed the arrest of Yang, calling it a “major breakthrough” in its investigation into what appears to be a large-scale organized crime syndicate involving Chinese nationals in connivance with corrupt Philippine officials.
The mega-panel—composed of the House Committees on Dangerous Drugs, Public Order and Safety, Human Rights and Public Accounts— described the arrest as a crucial step in exposing the criminal network hiding behind legitimate businesses.
“This is a major breakthrough in
Pasig...
From A1
probable cause against Guo and her co-accused for the said charge.
The Pasig court also directed Guo’s transfer from the NCR CIDG Custodial Facility in Camp Crame to the Pasig City Jail Female Dormitory. However, she must first undergo initial arraignment at the Valenzuela Regional Trial Court (RTC) before being moved to the Pasig facility, according to Philippine National
Mabilog...
From A1
Mabilog denied allegations of involvement in illegal drug activities, pointing out that "the narco-list was later found to be inaccurate on its face after it was proven that two of the individuals included in the said list were long dead before its release, and one name was described to be a Member of the House of Representatives despite not having been elected to any public office."
In his affidavit during the Quad Comm hearing, Mabilog said that "former President Duterte himself acknowledged the unreliability of his narco-list when he subsequently removed the name of the Alcalas of Quezon Province from the list. Also, the Court of Appeals in Veloso v. PDEA et al., CA-G.R. SP No. 00005-WHD, June 8, 2021, even ordered all law enforcement agencies to remove Vicent S.E. Veloso's name from the narco-list after finding that its inclusion therein violated his right to due process.".
Mabilog also disclosed his former spokesperson, SMNI host Jeffrey Celiz, also known as Ka Eric, was included in the controversial "narco-list" presented by former President Rodrigo Duterte at the height of his administration's war on drugs.
as soon as the weather improves. Our Philippine Coast Guard has a plan on how to protect our West Philippine Sea," the NSC chief told GMA News.
The BRP Teresa Magbanua was pulled out after keeping watch over Escoda Shoal for five months for repairs and the medical treatment of several of its crew.
The flagship vessel of the Coast Guard endured harassment and ramming by Chinese ships in an attempt to force it out of the shoal which had been deployed there to prevent possible Chinese reclamation activities.
Escoda Shoal, also known as Sabina Shoal, is located 75 nautical miles or about 140 kms off Palawan and is within the Philippines' 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
concern for the entire department. "We are really concerned with the security of our more than 28 million passport holders' data," Cruz was quoted saying in a GMA News report. "It is something we really want to protect." Cruz pointed out that some govern-
our fight against illegal drugs and organized crime. Tony Yang’s arrest exposes illicit activities disguised as legitimate businesses," said Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, overall chair of the Quad Committee and head of the committee on dangerous drugs.
“For too long, these individuals have operated with impunity, using corporate fronts to conceal their illegal operations. This arrest strengthens our commitment to pursuing justice and holding everyone involved in these syndicates accountable, no matter how well-connected they may be,” Barbers added.
The elder Yang is suspected of being involved in smuggling drugs and facilitating illegal POGOs in Cagayan de Oro City, as well as in Bamban, Tarlac, and Porac, Pampanga.
Police (PNP) spokesperson Colonel Jean Fajardo.
Tarlac RTC Branch 109 issued a warrant of arrest against the dismissed Bamban mayor on September 5 for allegedly violating the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, but the case was transferred to a Valenzuela RTC.
Aside from Guo, Malaysian national Walter Wong Long, who was recently nabbed in an illegal POGO hub in Bamban, Tarlac was also ordered transferred to the Pasig City Jail from the Tarlac Provincial Jail
Mabilog explained he terminated Celiz’s services after learning that he used his name in a vacation in Boracao without permission. Responding to questions about his involvement in the drug trade, Mabilog defended his actions during his tenure as mayor. He explained that he relied on law enforcement agencies like the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to enforce anti-drug laws.
Meanwhile, the PNP has initiated an investigation into Mabilog's claims of death threats. PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil stated that the Police Security and Protection Group (PSPG) will lead the probe and provide security if needed.
After seven years in exile, Mabilog made a highly anticipated return to Iloilo City. He was greeted warmly by friends,political allies, and family members upon arriving at the Iloilo International Airport.
Mabilog visited the City Hall and met with incumbent Mayor Jerry Treñas, a long-time political ally. Treñas welcomed Mabilog's return and expressed his continued support.
While Mabilog's return sparked political speculation, both he and Treñas denied having any immediate plans for political involvement. Treñas emphasized that the focus should be on Mabilog's return and the positive impact it could have on the city.
Meanwhile, the Typhon midrange capability (MRC) missile system deployed in the Philippines by the United States will stay for training purposes, Philippine Army Spokesperson Colonel Louie Demaala told the Manila Standard on Friday.
Dema-ala however said that the decision for the MRC's deployment in the country remains a bilateral decision of both countries.
“MRC will stay for training purposes. But there is also a possibility that anytime there will be changes on its status depending on what will be decided at the strategic level,” he said.
“The Philippine Army is focused on training. We have no control as to the disposition of the MRC," Dema-ala said.
Dema-ala said training with MRC involves 50 personnel from the Army Artillery Regiment as the Salaknib Phase 2 is still ongoing and tentatively ends around the 4th week of September.
ment data had previously been hacked and sold on the deep web, stressing the need for better security measures.
He also said the DFA is currently unhappy with how passport printing is being handled by the state-owned APO Production Unit, which is under the direct supervision of the Office of the President through the Presidential Communications Office.
"There [were] several incidents where their data and system were allegedly breached. Unfortunately, they would not admit to the gravity or to the degree of the breach. We believe that is being sugar-coated... So, perhaps it
Michael Yang, on the other hand, has been identified as a key figure in the congressional investigation into the connections between illegal POGOs, drug trafficking, land grabbing by some Chinese nationals, and extrajudicial killings tied to the Duterte administration’s brutal war on drugs.
“The capture of Tony Yang strengthens the case against his brother, Michael Yang, who has continuously evaded our summons. We will not stop until we uncover the full scope of their involvement in illegal activities that endanger our people and threaten national security,” Barbers said.
The Immigration bureau said the elder Yang also faces a deportation case for being an undesirable alien after allegedly misrepresenting himself as a Filipino and falsifying
The Court Order clarified that these cases are not entitled to post bail as the charges against them are all non-bailable.
As this developed, the House Quad Committee on Thursday night ordered the 30-day detention of Katherine Cassandra Li Ong at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City after citing her for contempt for the second time, this time for "lying" during the ongoing investigation into illegal POGOs.
Currently detained at the House
PNP...
From A1
Hundreds of printed materials bearing the image of a disheveled Roque and describing him as a ‘POGO lawyer’ were posted strategically along Kalayaan Avenue and other public places in the city.
The House Quad Committee branded Roque a “fugitive” after he went into hiding, prompting the panel to issue an order for his arrest.
Meneses called on citizens to be on the lookout for the former partylist solon and staunch defender of the Duterte administration.
“His role and ties with the POGO industry are too obvious and blatant. He will no longer be able to go through the sneaking and lying the way he used to do for (former
Lakas-CMD,...
From A1
The convention also adopted Resolution 1 and 2 — one designating its regional chairpersons and another authorizing its secretary general, Agusan del Norte Rep. Jose Aquino ll, to submit to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) its authorized signatories and their specimen signatures for nominating candidates in next year’s polls, respectively.
Addressing his party mates, Romualdez said Lakas-CMD would join a formidable administration alliance supporting candidates in next year's polls.
The leader of the 307-strong House of Representatives added that Lakas-CMD would remain President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s reliable partner in pushing for policies and reforms that would benefit every Filipino.
‘Angels... From A1
However, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo told reporters that investigators are still looking into the background of the supposed Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) hatchet man to verify his claim. Davao City police chief Col. Hansel Marantan earlier told reporters that they
would be better if APO explains," Cruz reportedly told the senators. In response to these concerns, Cruz said the DFA is actively negotiating with several cybersecurity firms to implement a more reliable protection system to secure passport data at reasonable costs for the government.
Senator Loren Legarda, who chaired the Senate hearing, called on the DFA to submit a full report on the situation. She also invited Cruz to attend the budget briefing of the PCO, which supervises APO next week, so they talk about these issues. The DFA official in-
information regarding the Securities and Exchange Commission certification of the Philippine Sanjia Corporation which he owns. Filipino employees of the said company were also said to have filed complaints for the non-remittance of their Social Security System (SSS), PAG-IBIG, and PhilHealth contributions. Yang was turned over to PAOCC for custody. PAOCC Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz said Yang was likely attempting to flee the country as he was carrying P1.4 million in cash and various foreign currencies.
Yang possessed multiple Philippine-issued IDs under the name "Antonio Maestrado Lim," a firearm permit, and a luxury watch valued at over P2 million.
of Representatives, Ong will be transferred to the CIW after her initial 30-day contempt penalty for snubbing hearings ends on September 26. CIW is the country's sole penal facility exclusively for women offenders and typically houses those whose convictions are final. Ong, who has been linked to a POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga that was raided by authorities for various illegal activities, was cited for contempt again after being accused of giving false testimony about her educational background.
President Rodrigo) Duterte," the Akbayan officer said. Roque faces scrutiny from the Quad Comm for his failure to submit documents that were requested of him, including his Statement of Assets Liabilities and Net Worth, financial documents of his family corporation Biancham, its subsidiary PH2, and a deed of sale of the 1.8-hectare property in Parañaque City under his name.
However, Roque said in a 14-minute video message that he cannot be considered a fugitive because he has not violated any law, instead, he is a victim of political persecution.
“What they (Congressmen) are doing is wrong…. They kept screaming [at him], and if I refuse to answer… they cite me for contempt right away. They are power-tripping,” he insisted.
“In 2025, we are not just fielding candidates — we are shaping the future. Lakas-CMD is proud to join the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas. This multiparty administration alliance will bring forth a formidable 12-man senatorial slate, as well as candidates for provincial, congressional, and city and municipal positions,” Romauldez told his party members.
For his part, Revilla thanked the Lakas-CMD for fielding him as the party’s senatorial candidate: “With beaming pride and gratitude, I humbly accept this nomination to be its candidate for senator in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections."
“Through Speaker Martin, we have achieved a level of solidarity that our party has never reached before... We credit him for again making Lakas the ruling party. And because of this, it is with full confidence that I say to all of you - we are definitely in good hands,” Revilla said in his speech.
are looking into reports that members of the Angels of Death had already killed some of Quiboloy’s victims to keep them from testifying about their ordeals.
dicated willingness to join the hearing. Meanwhile, Cruz also reported that the DFA recently denied the passport applications of at least 171 individuals due to “questionable nationalities.” The agency also cancelled 66 Philippine passports held by foreign nationals. The DFA official said these measures began as early as November last year with 71 cases already filed before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Cruz noted they are also actively coordinating with the Philippine Statistics Authority and the Bureau of Immigration to address the issue.
Gov’t to go ahead with speed limiter implementation
By Rio Araja
THE government is moving forward with plans to mandate the installation of speed limiters in all public utility vehicles (PUVs) in order to reduce accidents and fatalities on the country's roads. Republic Act 10916, or the Road Speed Limiter Act, was passed into law in 2014 but has yet to be fully implemented.
Meanwhile, militant driver's groups PISTON and MANIBELA announce a transport strike from Sept 23 to 24 to protest the Public Utility Vehicles Modernization Program (PUVMP) whose implementation became effective last April 30. According to LTFRB Chair Teofilo Guadiz at least 82 percent of the country's transport groups have joined the PUVMP.
Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief Vigor Mendoza II expressed frustration over the delay in the implementation of the Road Speed Limiter law, saying that "it is long overdue."
"We have to do something now for the interest and protection of all road users," he said
To expedite the process, the LTO has initiated a series of meetings with government officials, transportation experts, and PUV operators to develop guidelines for the installation of speed limiters.
The first meeting was held on September 18, with representatives from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), LTFRB, and the UV Express and bus industries in attendance.
According to Mendoza, the implementation of speed limiters will not only help prevent accidents but also improve the overall safety of public transportation in the Philippines.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that road traffic injuries are a leading cause of death globally, with an estimated 1.3 million fatalities annually. In the Philippines, an average of 32 people die each day due to road accidents.
VP Sara surprises Leni Robredo with visit in Naga City
VICE President Sara Duterte paid a surprise visit to former vice president Leni Robredo in Naga City yesterday, according to her spokesperson, Atty. Barry Gutierrez. He said that Robredo learned of the meeting “minutes before” Duterte was already on her way to her home.
Gutierrez said the conversation between Duterte and Robredo lasted for about an hour and was “personal and not political”.
Robredo confirmed the meeting, according to the ABS-CBN report.
"While she was in Naga City for the Penafrancia Festival, VP Sara Duterte took the opportunity to visit me at my home. The conversation we had was personal and not political,” she said.
Meanwhile, US-based former KOJC worker Arlene Stone accused Quiboloy of “gifting” ex-president Rodrigo Duterte and other close associates with the company of “pastorals,” presumably for sex. In an interview with DZRH, Stone said one of the victims of sex trafficking still resides within the sprawling KOJC compound in Davao City.
“Based on my information, (certain pastorals) were being offered to (powerful people) very close to Quiboloy, like for example president Duterte. If he (Duterte) likes one of the members of the pastoral, Quiboloy would grant it,” the whistleblower said in the radio interview.
NEWS
Tolentino proposes Sulu ‘transition fund’
(PCO) Acting Secretary Cesar
on Friday called the House of Representatives’ swift approval of the agency’s proposed budget for next year a “vote of confidence.”
Chavez noted the proposed P2.281billion budget for 2025 passed the plenary without a single question or opposition, motivating the PCO to deliver on the promised outcomes.
“We appreciate the House’s full support for our new programs, the driving mandate of which is the truthful and timely communication of government services and initiatives to the public and all issues that affect them,” Chavez said.
“This is a vote of confidence in our mission and organization, which we shall work to redeem in full,” he added. He likewise pledged that every peso would be spent efficiently, in line with plans and legal requirements. Charles Dantes
‘Manila North Road project nearly done’
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Western Visayas enforced a price freeze on essential commodities across 44 local government units in Iloilo province, including Iloilo City, Passi City, and other municipalities.
The price freeze aims to prevent undue price increases and ensure that essential goods remain affordable for the affected communities.
“The DTI conducts daily monitoring of retailers to ensure that prices of basic necessities adhere to the price freeze,” said Consumer Protection division chief Grace Benedicto.
Based on Republic Act No. 7581, or the Price Act, the prices of basic commodities automatically freeze at their prevailing prices for 60 days following a state of calamity declaration.
The price freeze covers a range of essential goods including canned fish, processed milk, coffee, deter gent, laundry soap, bread, instant noodles, salt, bottled water, and candles.
Businesses found violating the price freeze may face penalties under the Price Act, including imprison ment or fines.
By Macon Ramos-Araneta
SENATE Majority Leader Francis Tolentino called on various government agencies to work together to come up with a transition fund to cover the expenses urgently needed by Sulu province following its severance from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Tolentino raised this during the Senate sub-committee hearing he presided over for the proposed 2025 budget of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and its attached agencies.
officers in Region 9, and perhaps Sulu will be transferred there. What happens now to Sulu? Is it possible to carve out something from your budget allocation to form a Sulu fund? This could come from a small share from each agency, but if pooled, this transition fund could be substantial enough,” the senator told Abalos.
In response, Abalos said that just like other agencies, the DILG did not anticipate the exclusion of Sulu from BARMM.
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is rushing the completion of the P93.47 million Manila North Road (MNR) improvement project in Bamban, Tarlac.
DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said the project involves the asphalt overlay and re-blocking of a 1.03-kilometer section of the road, with added road safety component of solar LED streetlights, and thermoplastic pavement marking.
“The repair and upgrade will prevent further dilapidation of this road section which is a vital link between the northern parts of Luzon,” he said.
Zamboanga Peninsula, which would presumably absorb its administrative jurisdiction after a recent Supreme Court ruling.
Tolentino expressed concerns over the budgetary requirements of the province to support its police officers and all employees working in the public sector, among other issues.
“You have
The senator asked Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. how the agency is assisting Sulu as the latter transitions from BARMM to Region 9 or the
“We are coordinating with the Ministry of the Interior Local Government of BARMM if it would be possible to keep the status quo. In the same token, we face a dilemma on how to raise these funds from what we currently have. It is difficult, but we’re trying to scrape some funds using every means possible,” Abalos said.
Meanwhile, the completion of three local road projects boosts the economic development in Barangay Caluluan and Barangay San Vicente in the town of Concepcion, and in Barangay Mayang, Lapaz. The completed construction of the two-lane road in Barangay Calaluan costing P4.85 million includes the reinforced concrete box culvert for irrigation and drainage system. Vito Barcelo
3 PEMATs earn WHO recognition
THE Department of Health is leading the organization of the Philippine Emergency Medical Assistance Teams (PEMAT) according to the standards set by the World Health Organization Emergency Medical Team initiative.
The Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium (PEMAT Metro Manila), Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital (PEMAT Luzon), and Eastern Visayas Medical Center (PEMAT Visayas) have been assessed from September 16-20, 2024 by the WHO Singapore Emergency Medical Team and Japan Disaster Relief. The three teams were assessed in their capabilities in clinical management, logistics, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
The EMT badge signifies the recognition of the team’s highest level of preparedness and ability to respond effectively to humanitarian emergencies worldwide.
EMTs around the world provide essential healthcare services in challenging environments, making them valuable assets to both domestic and international humanitarian efforts.
Ralph Harvey Rirao
AN ADVOCACY group championing consumer rights cautioned the government against amending the SIM Card Registration Law, saying the proposal to limit SIM ownership would mean nothing if law enforcement remains weak and incapable of going after fraudsters.
“The impact of regulating the number of SIMs one can register will just be an inconvenience to fraudster,” said CitizenWatch con-
By Maricel V. Cruz
those are all being served by the DSWD,” Assistant Secretary for Statutory ProgramsAda Colico said.
venor Orlando Oxales. “It is so easy to bypass such restrictions because there are many ways scammers can gain other ‘unique’ identities.”
Oxales said that such fraudsters do not usually act on their own but are usually part of a group of organized cybercriminals who resort to identity theft and other sophisticated tactics to pursue their aim.
“What we really need is an enforcement system that goes after scammers,
not more laws to burden consumers with,” he said.
A senator has proposed the amendment of the SIM law so that an individual can have a maximum of 10 SIMs, saying having 10 is more than enough for various purposes and transactions.
A desire to have more than this number would merit a separate registration process, with telecommunication companies determining if the applicant really needs more SIMs.
MAKING HEALTHCARE MORE ACCESSIBLE. President Marcos leads the turnover of 28 Bagong Pilipinas mobile clinics for six regions in
Mindanao during a ceremony at the Manila North Harbor Port in Tondo, Manila on Friday, Sept. 20, 2024. Rene Dilan
MARKET INSPECTION.
Cristina A. Roque
‘CREATE MORE bill already bears fruits’
IN BRIEF Mixed movements of fuel prices next week—DOE
Abalos, Marbil back NTF-ELCAC retention
THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday expressed support for the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) amid calls for the body’s abolition.
“I can attest that this program is very effective and very good,” DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said during the budget briefing of his department and its attached agencies.
“For me, this should not only be continued, but also strengthened,” he added.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil shared Abalos’ view, saying the NTFELCAC should be retained. Vince Lopez
CAR studes bag trophy in DOST app dev’t tilt
STUDENTS from the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) bagged first place in an app development competition spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology-National Academy of Science and Technology (DOSTNAST).
The winning students, Lloy Gladwin, Jonavel Adawe, Samantha Samson, and Yael Solimen from the Philippine Science High School in CAR were coached by Leo Dacumos.
Their winning entry, titled Telling Science Top Down, was viewed as a creative way to tell science stories through app.
The entry copped first prize in Salinlahi Evolution, an app development competition organized by the DOST-NAST in collaboration with the Philippine Amusement and Entertainment Corp. (PAEC).
“Team Technolikha’s game, Telling Science Top Down, aims to address issues concerning the biosphere, particularly focusing on land and water. The game includes a series of puzzles that must be solved by the player, Dr. Likha. The character is inspired by the concept that individual actions and participation are instrumental in creating change and, ultimately, in saving a deteriorating world,” the Philippine Information Agency said in a statement.
Bataan board member rolls out mobile library
BATAAN First District board member
Tony Roman has launched a mobile library project seeking to promote reading among elementary school students in the province.
Roman provided the mobile library while the e-library was supplied by the Asia Foundation, with public school teachers assisting in project implementation.
Named “Cool Iskool Mobile Library,” the project has already gained support from the Aboitiz Foundation which donated 57 computer tablets, with more help forthcoming.
The mobile library will visit elementary schools in the province. Butch Gunio
By Alena Mae S. Flores
THE Department of Energy (DOE) on Friday warned of a possible mixed movements in pump prices due to several factors such as the U.S. Federal Reserves’ interest rate cuts, geopolitical concerns, and tight oil supply.
DOE director for oil industry Rodela Romero said based on the four-day trading in the Mean of Platts Singapore, mixed movements will be implemented in the domestic pump prices by next week.
Romero said the gasoline prices may go up by P0.40 to P0.90 per liter, diesel may
CHR
By Rio N. Araja
THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Friday urged authorities to conduct a thorough review of the arrest of a former human rights leader in Digos City, Davao del Sur.
“CHR reiterates the importance of ensuring due process for all individuals, regardless of their affiliation. A safe and fair environment, where the rule of law prevails, is essential in fostering a society where the human rights of all sectors are respected and protected,” the CHR said in a statement.
Police arrested Jay Apiag, a Karapatan ex-secretary general, on Aug. 13 and detained him at the Buhangin police station for alleged attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
In March 2021, Apiag, along with Karapatan national chairperson Elisa Lubi, was issued an arrest warrant for another attempted murder cases, but the charges were recalled after a petition was filed.
have no adjustment or increase by up to P0.40 per liter, while kerosene may also have no adjustment or increase by P0.20 per liter.
She said world oil prices reacting to news of the US Fed Reserve makes aggressive interest rate cut weeks before their presidential election. Tensions in the Middle East, specifically the attack on Hezbollah members across Lebanon also offered some price support due to potential supply disruption and decline in US crude inventories.
“For Asia, Japan refinery under maintenance and Malaysia removes their subsidies to gasoline with octane
grade of 95,” Romero said. On Sept. 17, 2024, the oil companies implemented a decrease of P1 per liter for gasoline, P1.30 per liter for diesel, and P1.65 per liter for kerosene.
Year-to-date, total adjustment of gasoline and diesel stands at a net increase of P4.85 per liter and P1.75 per liter, respectively, while kerosene has a total net decrease of P6.35 per liter.
Meanwhile, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said he wants to institutionalize transparency in the movements of petroleum prices through a law to ensure that the welfare and interests of consumers are amply protected.
By Macon Ramos-Araneta
THE anticipated passage of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Act is already yielding positive results as Japanese companies commit to expanding their investments in the Philippines
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, chairman of the Senate Committee on Economic Affairs, said the measure, designed to streamline the VAT-refund process for export-oriented industries, is poised to significantly boost the country’s investment landscape.
Zubiri expressed enthusiasm over the recent investment pledges from Japanese firms, which were confirmed during their meetings with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
These commitments come in anticipation of the CREATE MORE Act, currently awaiting the President’s approval.
“The confidence shown by Japan’s business sector is a testament to the soundness of our economic reforms. This is precisely the outcome we aimed for with CREATE MORE,” Zubiri remarked.
As author and co-sponsor of the bill, he has been a strong driving force behind its passage.
Among the companies signalling their intention to expand their investments in the Philippines are MinebeaMitsumi Inc., Marubeni Corp., AEON Retail Co. Ltd., Japan Institute of Design and Promotion, and Itochu Corp., the parent company of DOLE Philippines.
Zubiri noted that DOLE has faced significant challenges under the current VAT refund system, with losses exceeding P3.5 billion due to delayed or denied refunds since 2018.
“Foreign investors like DOLE have been grappling with an overly complex VAT refund process, and some were even considering relocating to more businessfriendly countries in the region,” Zubiri explained.
hoarding. The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said some rice importers might be deliberately holding their shipments at the ports while waiting for rice prices to go up. DA spokesman Arnel De Mesa cited the PPA for promptly addressing the issue. He said some importers have even kept their shipments at the ports for nine months, adding that such schemes might be tantamount to hoarding which could upset the country’s food value chain. He said that rice importations are timed and should not coincide with the local harvest season. De Mesa also said Bureau of Plant Industry personnel were poised to open some of the unclaimed container vans on Friday to check on the condition of the cereals amid concerns about its quality after long storage. The DA earlier said port congestion was partly to blame for keeping rice prices high as imports were not immediately released to the market. The PPA however, said there was no congestion in the ports it oversees, and that some importers were deliberately keeping their shipments stocked in the ports instead of withdrawing them.
SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY’S END. Former Iloilo City Mayor Jed Mabilog ends his sentimental homecoming journey with a visit to an extremely familiar place, the city hall where he was met by a friend of long standing, incumbent Mayor Jerry Treñas.
BILATERAL DISASTER RELIEF EXERCISE. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Singapore Armed Force’s Changi
OPINION
FOMO at the fair
YOU go to a book fair like a child at the entrance to a carnival or a toy store.
To say you are excited is an understatement. Your cannot wait to present your ticket, go through the door, and step into a magical kingdom.
Your eyes practically pop at the sight of different booths. It is a heaven of sorts -- if you dare imagine this is what heaven could be, a happy place. You do not know which way to go first. You want to be everywhere all at once.
The sight of throngs of people, which would normally turn you off, is oddly reassuring. You feel an affinity with those strangers and you wonder whether they feel the same way that you do. You are happy that contrary to expectations in this digital age, many are finding, or returning to, the printed page. There is hope!
You see children’s books and you are happy that today’s young readers have more at their disposal. An image flashes: You reading to your imaginary future grandchildren. That won’t be for a while, but it’s a nice thought, anyway. At the booths of the publishing houses, the sight of the titles lures you. Pick me, one seems to say. But the other one looks good, too. Oh, wait – this is one you’ve been wanting to read for a while. Why not both or all? You remind yourself you have to stick to a budget.
You see the authors signing books and obliging your request for a selfie. These are names you just read about, and read, these greats, and they are there in the flesh, those people who have taken you places in your mind or given you some precious insight.
On the way home, you carry your precious haul on your lap. You can’t wait to open the package, smell the books, cover them as though you were putting a blanket on a sleeping beloved, organize them on your shelves, and start reading.
I went to three of these last year. ***
This year, for some personal reason, I missed the fair.
I was despondent for days, so I came up with numerous reasons to snap out of the sad spell.
Reasons like, if I had gone, I would have felt tired and dizzy, and then my weekend would have slipped.
If I had gone, I would not have been able to stick to the budget I had set for
myself. There were other bills to pay and certainly, shopping for books is a luxury – a want rather than a need.
Seeing all those published writers would have also reminded me that I still want to do more with my life and need to work harder. Pressure!
More books, when there are plenty that I have started but not yet finished, and when there are purchases from previous shopping trips that I have not even actually begun reading yet? A friend once chided me for not even having gone past the foreword of a book I had said I’d long wanted to possess. Certainly, visiting the fair would have added to all that unfinished business.
Here’s how I came to terms with what I missed.
Also, I’m running out of shelf space.
The books would sit idly, and accumulate dust. I get really bad allergies from dust. And did I not say I wanted to be a minimalist?
Finally, I don’t really have time to catch up on my reading. Maybe when I’m older. Maybe when I retire. Maybe when there is less pressure to earn a living. ***
Who am I kidding? It’s all sour grapes. These arguments are ridiculous, if not downright wrong.
Going to the fair and the sight of so many people would have tired me out -- but I could always rest. I could even have dozed off on the ride home. It’s a weekend acivity I should not have missed for the world.
I would have been able to stick to my budget, and even if I failed, I could always take on extra writing, editing, or translating gigs to fill the gap. It’s basic economics: when resources are limited, scrimp on other things to give way to what is more important.
I would have basked in the presence of other writers and would have been inspired to write just a bit more, just a bit more often, and a lot better. I would have strengthened my resolve to set aside regular reading and writing time, no matter the material demands of life.
Toward a world-class airport
By Melandrew T. Velasco
THERE is no mistaking, upon entering the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), how busy and congested it is. It is the premier international gateway of the country in the metropolis, after all. But there is hope for a comfortable and convenient travel experience.
Straddling the cities of Pasay and Paranaque, NAIA has four terminals sharing two runways being utilized by more than 30 airlines.
Last week, San Miguel Corporation’s New NAIA Infrastructure Corp (NNIC) formally took over the operation of NAIA. The project is another testament to a public-private partnership for infrastructure development. It is also the second massive airport development being undertaken by SMC, the first being the ongoing New Manila International Airport in Bulacan.
The NNIC, then known as SMC-SAP & Co. Consortium was awarded the P170.6 billion concession agreement to rehabilitate, operate and maintain the NAIA early this year. The SMC-led NNIC will invest around P144 billion for the project. The concession is for 15 years with provision for a ten-year extension.
Apart from allocating 82.16 percent of NAIA’s revenue as government share, a P30-billion upfront payment was required. NNIC promptly remitted the up-
China’s ‘full-time dads’ challenge patriarchal norms
SHANGHAI, CHINA — Cooking, cleaning, caring for the kids during the day, Chen Hualiang takes on household tasks many Chinese fathers tend to leave to their wives, bucking a deep-rooted patriarchal tradition and even inspiring a hit TV show.
The former project manager gave up the rat race to join a growing number of “full-time dads”, as they are known in China.
“When you work, you dream of a great career and that this money will help your family,” he told AFP from a villa in the suburbs of Shanghai, his four-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son playing nearby.
“But nothing is certain, and a salary is not necessarily what your family needs the most.”
Social norms in China have for centuries dictated that men are the breadwinners, while women take care of the household and children.
“My father was just a father. I never felt like he could help me, except financially,” said Chen.
“I want to be like a friend to my children, so they can share things with me.”
Over half of Chinese men now say they would agree to become a stay-athome dad, a 2019 survey cited by state media suggested -- up from just 17 percent in 2007.
That has coincided with a broader recognition of women’s rights and their access to higher education, though they are still under-represented in senior roles.
front payment after the official transfer of the NAIA operations.
Finance Secretary Ralph Recto was quoted in a report saying “as the project finally takes off, the government is expected to generate roughly P900 billion in revenues from this deal over the entire term.”
“This will be equivalent to a revenue source of more or less P36 billion pesos to fund more projects in education, public health, and infrastructure,” he added.
It is an exciting time because we are about to make history.
Frequent travelers are excited to witness the outcome of the NAIA retrofitting. For first time visitors, they get their first impressions of the country upon arrival, with the airport playing a vital role to showcase a positive image of the country and its people.
NNIC General Manager Lito Alvarez admitted the project will take time and commitment but “we will do it right, no shortcuts.” Toward the end of the year, which is still Christmas season in the country, travelers could see significant improvements in the airport. This will be a timely present to the many balikbayans and tourists who travel to the
“The increase in the number of stayat-home dads is due to the fact that women have a higher status today,” Pan Xingzhi, founder of an online psychological counselling platform, told AFP.
People also see “value for money”
country during the holidays.
“A world-class airport means more jobs, more tourists, and a stronger and more prosperous Philippines,” SMC Chairman and CEO Don Ramon S. Ang (RSA), who is also Chairman of NNIC, said.
The Philippine Statistics Authority said that in 2023, the share of Tourism Direct Gross Value Added (TDGVA) to the Philippine economy, as measured by the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), was estimated at 8.6 percent, higher than the TDGVA in 2022 by 47.9 percent.
Meanwhile, employment in tourism characteristic industries was estimated at 6.21 million in 2023, higher by 6.4 percent compared with the 5.84 million employment in tourism characteristic industries in 2022.
It remains to be seen in the near future how a rehabilitated NAIA under NNIC will affect the growth of tourism and related industries, aside from increase in tourist arrivals. But I am optimistic an improved NAIA will further boost the country as a choice tourist destination.
-- for a couple, foregoing a salary and taking care of their baby themselves is often less expensive than hiring a nanny or a childminder, Pan said.
‘Super helpful’
For Chen, his decision to stay home frees up time for his wife Mao Li, author of a bestselling book on stay-at-home fathers.
“At the beginning of our marriage, I wondered about his helpfulness as a spouse,” she said.
“He worked a lot, so he didn’t help me with the children and didn’t pay me much attention. But now he takes care of the children and stays at home, I find him super helpful,” she said.
Social norms have for centuries dictated that men are the breadwinners, while women take care of the household and children.
“I give him 9.5 out of 10.”
On Xiaohongshu, China’s equivalent of Instagram, other young stay-at-home dads proudly promote their lifestyle choice.
Chang Wenhao, 37, a content creator and education entrepreneur from the southern Chinese city of Zhuhai, is one convert. He adjusted his working hours to be available 80 percent of the time for his seven-year-old daughter and five-yearold son, taking them camping, horse
NNIC intends to increase annual capacity from 35 million to 62 million passengers. It was reported that a concourse will be developed at the site of the Philippine Village Hotel near NAIA.
The renovation project will also include improvement on aircraft parking bays, augmentation of vehicle parking spaces, installation of world-class systems and technology, upgrading of baggage handling system, and more retail and food & beverage options that are world-class. Also on the table is improving runway efficiency to increase aircraft movement from 40 to 48 per hour.
Reassignment of terminals will be undertaken gradually. Prior to the NNIC takeover, Terminal 1 had almost all international flights; 2, international and domestic flights of Philippine Airlines; 3, international flights not handled in Terminal 1 and some domestic flights; and 4, flights from regional and local carriers.
The modernization that will generate about 58,000 jobs will ensure effi-
riding, cycling and hiking.
“In terms of educational methods, encouragement, how to build self-confidence, develop their skills, their independence in life, I bring them things they don’t learn at school or from other adults,” he said.
Mao’s book has inspired a 36-episode television series called “Husband and Wife” on the theme of full-time dads, rekindling the sometimes-heated debate about the role of men in the home in China.
“My parents are a little concerned that I am a stay-at-home dad,” Chen said.
“Some people, especially on social media, say that I live off my wife.”
‘You have to work’
Plenty of other stay-at-home dads also report pushback from their families.
Xu Xiaolin, 34, from the eastern Chinese of Xiamen, has been a stay-athome dad since the company he worked for went bankrupt.
“In the beginning, my parents and grandparents often said: you have to work,” Xu told AFP.
“Elderly neighbors sometimes make comments to them. It bothers them, so they put pressure on me.”
Passers-by sometimes make fun of him when he walks his two-year-old son alone, he said.
“But people under 35 no longer have that mentality.”
Chang, the entrepreneur, also said he has noticed the beginnings of a change in recent years.
“Many fathers are starting to value the company and education of their children” and listening to their needs.
“This will continue to develop,” he said.
“But profound change will still take time.” AFP
cient passenger terminal transfers and provide convenient land transport connectivity. The latter will be a big help especially for domestic travelers who find themselves at the mercy of unscrupulous cab drivers.
For years, NAIA’s reputation has not been favorable, at times being called one of the worst airports in the world.
“It is an exciting time because we are about to make history. We can begin the work of modernizing our airports and giving the Filipino people a world-class facility they deserve,” RSA said. With the rehabilitation and transfer of its operation and maintenance to the private sector, hopes are high that the facility will become at par with the best in the world.
The author is the president of Million Trees Foundation Inc., a non-government outfit advocating regreening and watershed protection. He has also written and published a number of coffeetable books.
Hong Kong man gets 14 months for sedition under new law
DATE : 19 September 2024
Pursuant
the PERA Rules, the Commission adopts this set of guidelines.
SECTION 1. APPLICABILITY
This circular shall apply and cover all PERA Administrators which were issued a Qualification Certificate by the Securities and Exchange Commission. SECTION 2. DEFINITION OF TERMS
1. “Personal Equity and
all earnings of such funds.
2. “Commission” refers to the Securities and Exchange Commission.
3. “Administrator” is an entity accredited by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), after pre-qualification by the concerned Regulatory Authority. The Administrator shall be responsible for overseeing the PERA, whose core functions shall include, but not limited to: reporting on contributions made to the account, computing the values of investments, educating the Contributor, enforcing PERA contributions and withdrawal limits, collecting appropriate taxes and penalties for the government, securing BIR Income Tax Credit Certificates for the Contributor, consolidating reports on all investments, income, expenses and withdrawals on the account and ensuring that PERA contributions are invested in accordance with the prudential guidelines set by the Regulatory Authorities.
4. “Regulatory Authority” refers to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) as regards banks, other supervised financial institutions and trust entities, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for investment companies, investment houses stock brokerages and pre-need plan companies, and the Office of the Insurance Commission (OIC) for insurance companies.
5. “Government Securities” are debt instruments such as bonds or any evidence of indebtedness, of the Government of the Philippines, its political subdivisions and instrumentalities, or of government-owned or controlled corporations and entities.
SECTION 3. PROCEDURES FOR THE SUBMISSION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SECURITY DEPOSIT
The following procedures shall be observed in the submission and acceptance of securities deposit:
1. A written application to deposit securities mandated by the PERA Act and Rules shall be filed with the Commission, signed by the Administrator’s authorized representative, not later than forty-five (45) days from the commencement of the operation of the market participant as PERA Administrator;
2. The Commission shall determine whether or not the securities deposited are acceptable, i.e., Government securities whose actual market value is equivalent to one percent (1%) of the book value of the total volume of PERA assets held by the Administrator or such other amount as the Commission may impose;
3. The securities submitted to the Commission shall be indorsed in blank;
4. The applicant shall submit an Authorization Letter authorizing the Commission to withdraw, dispose and disburse the proceeds of PERA security deposit to settle any claims arising from the breach of its obligations and duties as evidenced by a final and executory court order. Such authorization letter shall be signed by the Administrator’s President or duly authorized representative;
5. If the Commission determines that the security deposit is acceptable and sufficient in value, the Commission shall issue a Certificate of Acceptance of Deposit containing an inventory of such securities deposited.
SECTION 4. ACCEPTABLE SECURITIES
Government securities equivalent to one percent (1%) of the book value of the total volume of PERA assets, or such other amount as the Commission may impose, shall be held by the Administrator as a security and shall be earmarked in favor of the Commission, for the faithful performance of its duties. The security shall be in addition to and shall be treated separately from the capital, surplus and undivided profits of the Administrator.
SECTION 5. REPORTORIAL AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS
PERA Administrators, duly pre-qualified by the Commission and accredited by the BIR, shall submit the following to the Commission:
1. Quarterly reports showing the sufficiency of the security deposit based on the average value of the administered assets for the quarter. The quarterly reports shall be submitted not later than the 15th day from the last month of every quarter.
2. An annual fee equivalent to the rates provided under SEC Memorandum Circular No. 17, series of 2016 or such other relevant regulations or amendments prescribed thereto1 shall be charged per year by the Commission upon filing of said application to cover payment of space in the vault with the Commission’s secured premises at the Financial Management Department - Treasury Division;
3. Other requirements as may be required by the Commission.
SECTION 6. REPLENISHMENT OF THE REQUIRED SECURITY DEPOSIT
Should the PERA Administrator fail to maintain the necessary security deposit, the PERA administrator shall notify the Commission immediately and replenish the same within a non-extendible period of one (1) week from the end of every quarter. This shall be without prejudice to the Commission’s determination on quarterly basis the sufficiency of the security deposit based on the average value of the administered assets for the quarter. Failure to comply with this section shall be subject to the sanctions provided under Sec. 8 of this Circular.
SECTION 7. PROHIBITION ON WITHDRAWAL, TRANSFER OR REPLACEMENT OF EARMARKED SECURITIES
The Administrator shall not withdraw, transfer or replace such earmarked securities without prior written instruction from the Commission.
SECTION 8. FINES AND PENALTIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE
HONG KONG, CHINA
— A Hong Kong man was jailed Friday for “seditious” posts on social media, becoming the third person to be imprisoned under
Au
After
otherwise known as the Investment Company Act, and its implementing rules.
Other entities or individuals as may be determined by the Commission as having the qualifications to be accredited as an Investment Manager.
Section 3. Application for Qualification Certificate as PERA Market Participant SEC-regulated entities who seek to apply as a PERA Administrator
its President or a representative of an equivalent rank, and shall be accompanied by a copy of the Board Resolution authorizing the submission of the said application.
The Qualification Certificate as a PERA market participant issued by the Commission shall be valid until revoked.
Section 4. Pre-qualification requirements as a PERA Administrator
The Commission shall issue a Qualification Certificate as PERA Administrator upon the applicant’s compliance with the following requirements:
1. The applicant maintains a net worth of at least One Hundred Million Pesos (Php100,000,000.00) at all times.
The net worth shall refer to the combined capital accounts of the Administrator subject to the adjustments provided in Rule 4.A, paragraph 2 (a) of the PERA-IRR;
2. It has adopted a Manual of Corporate Governance and is in full compliance therewith;
3. It has a clear and sufficient organizational plan or structure of its personnel who will perform the PERA administration functions, stating the duties and responsibilities as well as the line and staff functional relationships;
4. It possesses adequate systems and technological capabilities, and the necessary technical expertise and personnel to administer all types of PERA Investment Products, ensure the proper recording and tracking of a Contributor’s PERA(s), and perform the other required functions of a PERA Administrator.
The applicant must be able to adopt a recording and accounting system that will separate the PERA accounts and assets from its usual broker/ dealer and/or investment house transactions.
5. It has submitted proof that it has sufficient personnel who have undergone the requisite training prescribed or approved by the Commission to educate the PERA Contributors on:
The nature of a PERA; b. Privileges, conditions and requirements of a PERA; c. Risks and benefits of each type of PERA Investment Product;
The
Section 7. Grounds for Suspension or Revocation of Qualification/ Accreditation of Administrator and Investment Manager
The accreditation of a PERA Administrator or an Investment Manager shall cease to exist in the following circumstances:
1. If, after due notice and hearing, the Commission determines that the applicant has committed any of the grounds provided under Rule 4.D of the PERA IRR; or 2. In case of the withdrawal/revocation of the applicant’s primary and/or secondary license/registration.
Section 8. Penalty
The Commission shall impose applicable sanctions provided under the PERA Act and its implementing rules and regulations, the Securities Regulation Code (SRC) and its implementing rules and regulation (SRC-IRR), and other relevant rules and regulations, in the event of any violation of this circular.
Section 9. Reportorial Requirements
Any entity qualified/accredited by the Commission to be a PERA Administrator or a PERA Investment Manager shall comply with the
Schedule of Fees. The payment of all fees and charges shall be made through the eSPAYSEC portal. https://espaysec.sec.gov.ph/ payment-portal/home
Section 11. Supplemental Regulations
These Guidelines may be supplemented by relevant regulations which the Commission and the other Regulatory Authorities mentioned
ARMY RAID. Israeli army soldiers take position in the balcony of a building while surrounding another during an army raid in Qabatiyah south of Jenin in the occupied West Bank. AFP
An secures ICTSI Forest Hills crown
ANTIPOLO—Junior golfer Yunju
An showcased remarkable composure and talent well beyond her years, claiming a dominant seven-stroke win over Gretchen Villacencio despite a closing 74 in the ICTSI Forest Hills Ladies Classic at the Nicklaus course here on Friday.
The 13-year-old Korean prodigy not only withstood a fierce challenge from her compatriot Jiwon Lee early on but did so with remarkable composure and skill that left both her competitors and spectators in awe.
An wrapped up the 54-hole tournament with an impressive three-over 216 total, which included a remarkable two-under 69 in the second round, securing a commanding victory over Villacencio, who carded a 73 for a 223.
Apo leg winner Sarah Ababa matched par with a 71 to tie Miya Legaspi, who shot a 73, at third place with 224s, while Chihiro Ikeda finished in fifth place with a 226 after posting a 75. Lee, who started the final round in second place, five strokes behind An, made a strong push early on and pulled within one stroke of the leader. However, her charge faltered in the final stretch as she stumbled through a double bogey-bogey-double bogey run at the finish, ending up with an 80.
She dropped to a tie for sixth at 227 alongside fellow Korean Seoyun Kim, who carded a 74.
Three-leg winner Harmie Constantino rallied with a 73 to earn a share of eighth place at 228 alongside Laurea Duque, who posted a 74, while Florence Bisera also mounted a comeback with a 73 to tie Mafy Singson, who put in a 74, at 10th place with 229.
While An dominated the field with her stellar performance, Villacencio, Ababa and Legaspi battled fiercely for runner-up honors and the top prize of P130,000.
In the end, Villacencio edged out her rivals with a par on the final hole, as Ababa and Legaspi’s late birdie and eagle on No. 16, respectively, left them just one stroke short. Ababa and Legaspi halved the combined P165,000 second and third prizes.
Meanwhile, not even a bogey-bogey finish could derail An’s march to victory, as she had built a comfortable cushion over her more seasoned opponents with birdies on the long 10th and 16th holes.
PBA scribes to honor cage legend Jaworski
THE Philippine Basketball Association Press Corps will pay homage to one of the greatest players ever in the history of Asia’s pioneering pro league.
The legendary Robert ‘Sonny’ Jaworski Sr. will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award when the men and women who regularly cover the PBA beat celebrate their 30th Annual Awards Night on Sept. 24 at the Novotel Manila Araneta City.
Jaworski is just the second personality to be recognized with the special award. Alaska team owner Wilfred Uytengsu was its first recipient during the 25th anniversary of the PBAPC back in 2019.
The iconic playing-coach was widely regarded as the most popular player ever in the league as his good looks and charisma, combined with his playing ability and innate leadership endeared him to basketball-loving Filipinos.
Jaworski, 78, played a record 23 PBA seasons seeing action for Toyota and Barangay Ginebra in a milestone only equaled by big man Asi Taulava two years ago.
Hailed the 1978 MVP, the toughplaying guard won a total of 13 cham-
pionships both as player and coach from 1975 to 1997 and remained until today as the only player ever to suit up in a game at the age of 50.
The Big J was a 13-time champion – as player, coach, and playing-coach, a six-time Mythical First Team, twotime Mythical Second Team, two-time All-Defensive team member, and a four-time All-Star.
After a decorated career with Toyota, the Filipino Olympian found his niche with Gilbey’s Gin (forerunner of Ginebra), where he eventually gave rise to the now fabled ‘Never Say Die’ mantra of the franchise.
Jaworski was the first playing-coach to win a PBA championship during the 1986 Open Conference, and four years later became the coach of the first allpro team to play in the Beijing Asian Games, where the country copped the silver medal.
In a testament to him being one of the best ever point guards in the history of the league, the Big J remains until now the holder of the all-time record for most assists made with a total of 5,825.
MILO BEST Center’s SBP-Passarelle returns
AFTER a four-year absence, the Basketball Efficiency Scientific Training (BEST) Center’s Small Basketeers Philippines-Passarelle program is returning.
With the help of MILO Energy Drink, the program’s 8 to 11-year-old and 12-year-old clinics and competi-
tions will reopen in 11 provinces in October.
The first clinic with 12 teams composed of 15 players each will be held on Oct. 19 in Cagayan de Oro and Pagadian City, while the final activities will be in General Santos City on Dec. 27. Veronica Jorge, BEST Center’s vice president for
operations, said this after she signed a contract agreement MILO sports executive Carlo Sampan on Friday at The City Club in Makati City.
“We are happy for its relaunch after a four-year absence due to COVID-19. Maraming province ang nagtatanong sa amin tungkol dito. We are returning and luckily, with the backing of MILO,” said Jorge.
The BEST program, found by the late Nic Jorge in 1978, stopped operations in 2020 because of the lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The center’s activities helped young kids develop skills with good coaching and competition rules in the Passarelle (8-11 yrs old) and the SBP (12-15 yrs old). According to game rules, different sets of five players for each team will suit up in one of the four quarters of every match.
“As we look to the future, we are dedicated in helping develop champions for life. And continuing the legacy of excellence,” said Sampan during the signing ceremonies, which dedicated a moment of silence for Jorge, who passed in 2022, and his wife Marilyn, who died in 2023.
All set for 1st Mixed Martial Arts Manila Open
THE first Asian Mixed Martial Arts Manila Open, hosted by the newly-formed Nasyonal Mixed Martial Arts Pederasyon ng Pilipinas (NMMAPP) will be held from October 14 to 16 at the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel.
Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, NMMAPP president, along with Secretary General Alvin Aguilar, announced the 11-division weight class competitions supported by 9 Dynasty during Wednesday’s press conference at the Marriott.
“This is a good opportunity for all MMA fighters to show their fighting skills not only in some other fight promotions, but also a great avenue for them to fight for their flag and country in the Southeast Asian Games and Asian Games,” said Tolentino.
“Our Filipino fighters are known for their skills and courage. I believe they will excel in this first Asian Open,” Tolentino added. “But every country here in Asia is competi-
tive and strong because all of them have a strong MMA background.”
To sweeten the pot, Tolentino announced that all the 11 winners of each division will take home cash rewards. A gold medalist will bag $8,000, while silver medalist will receive $4,000 and $2,000 will be alloted for the bronze medalist.
Tolentino added the sport’s grassroots will be an integral part of the growth of the MMA fighters.
“MMA has always been popular but only recently we will enter at an amateur level,” Tolentino said. “That’s why the foundation must be strong. This will be a huge event.”
Aguilar, the country’s founding father of Philippine MMA and president of Wrestling Association of the Philippines, assured the safety of all competing fighters particularly the Filipinos who expressed their desire to compete like Arvin Chan, Annie Parungao, Carlo Laurel, and Geli Bulaong.
Batangas nails 3rd playoff slot in South
BATANGAS City Tanduay Rum swamped Sarangani, 112-87, on Thursday to close its elimination round stint in the MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) Sixth Season on a bright note at the San Andres Sports Complex. The Rum Masters, powered by John Ambulodto, wound up with 20 wins and 8 losses and secured the third spot heading to the South Division playoffs in the round-robin elimination phase of the two-division, 29team tournament. Earlier games saw Nueva Ecija subdue Rizal Xentromall, 88-67, and Paranaque clobber Sarangani, 112-87. Batangas trails top 2 South qualifiers Quezon Province (20-6) and Zamboanga Master Sardines (20-6) and paces Binan (19-8) for the top four slots that carry with it the homecourt advantage in the best-of-three playoffs starting on Oct. 5. Ambulodto posted 15 points and 18 rebounds to clinch the Daily Fantasy best player honors over Philip Paniamogan, who tallied 17 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists, Kris Porter (15 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists), Jeckster Apinan (12 points, 3 rebounds) and Dawn Ochea (10 points). Also-ran Sarangani, which skidded to 5-20, got 23 points and 6 assists from Adven Jess Diputado, King Destacamiento (13 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists) and Anthony Roque (11 points). Barely ahead, 40-39, at halftime, the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards broke way after three quarters, 70-53, and proceeded to climb to 24-3, good for the third playoffs seat in the North Division behind overall leaders San Juan (25-1) and Pampanga (26-2).
Robby Celiz paced Nueva Ecija with 14 points, followed by Byron Villarias (13), John Wilson (12) and Ed Daquioag (12). Relegated to 14-3, Rizal is in danger of yielding the eighth and last playoff slot in the North to either Quezon City or Valenzuela, both with 13-13 cards. Philip Manalang didn’t score in the Paranaque Patriots’ 111-89 thumping of the Imus Agimat VA Drones, but more than compensated with an MPBL all-time record of 23 assists that lifted Paranaque to 17-10. The 26-year-old, 5-foot-10 guard out of San Fernando, Pampanga and the University of the East, also snagged 4 rebounds and made 3 steals in a 22-minute, 12-second stint, letting 14 other Patriots pile up the points. Homegrown John Antony Umali and Kristan Hernandez posted 17 each, Paolo Castro 11, and JR Olegario and Lean Vincent Martel 10 each for Paranaque, which is lodged at the fifth spot in the South Division.
Junior golfer Yunju An (center) holds her trophy as she relishes her surprising, runaway victory in the Forest Hills Classic. With her are ICTSI’s Ronnel Javier and Forest Hills Golf and Country Club Operations head Allan Sorreda.
“We have 10 confirmed to join in the competition,” Aguilar said. “We are also in the process of our own arrangements for choosing
our athletes. We have our trials to make sure we will field the best Filipino mixed martial artists for this tournament.”
John Ambulodto powers Batangas past Sarangani.
Shown here are (from left) 9 Dynasty’s Derris Wong, Galastein Tan of AMMA, Lock Wai Han of AMMA, POC and NMMAPP president Abraham Tolentino, Secretary General Alvin Aguilar and Newport chief marketing officer David Jorden.
Robert Jaworski
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
PH chessers whip Africans to stay in contention
BUDAPEST—Grandmasters Julio
Catalino Sadorra and John Paul Gomez delivered the victories in the Philippines’ 3-1 win over South Africa in the eighth round Thursday to get back into the thick of things in the 45th Chess Olympiad at the BOK Sports Hall here.
Sadorra turned back International Master Jan Karsten in 36 moves of a Queen’s Pawn duel at board one while Gomez waylaid FIDE Master Banele Mhango in 34 moves of the Jaenisch Variation of the Ruy Lopez at board three as the Filipinos moved into a big group in the top 30 with 10 match points each.
IMs Paulo Bersamina and Jan Emmanuel Garcia both split their games early with Caleb Levi Levitan and Daniel Cawdery at boards two and four, respectively, before Gomez and Sadorra unleashed the killer blows.
The win was a soothing balm for the Filipinos, whose trip is being bankrolled by the Philippine Sports Commission and backed by NCFP chief Butch Pichay, after absorbing back-toback defeats at the hands of the Armenians, 2.5-1.5, and the Croats, 3.5-.5, that kicked them out of the top 10.
Sadorra, a University of Texas in Dallas coach, said they would need all the prayers and support when they go for the final push in their medal search starting with a ninth-round duel with the United Arab Emirates.
“We will need all the encouragement to keep fighting hard for our team,” said Sadorra, who is running sixth in the hotly contested individual medal race at board one.
Locals, foreign bets spice up Davao Aguilas’ roster for PFL
By Peter Atencio
A GOOD mix of talented, local and foreign players will spice up the roster of the Davao Aguilas FC for the Philippine Football League, which starts on Sept. 28. The Aguilas, who are coached by Aber Ruzgal, will be among 10 teams in the men’s division.
Veteran player Uriel Dalapo is returning with other local teammates for the Aguilas, who will be reinforced by the likes of Indonesian goalie Zavier Sudjarat, Korean Chun Su Mun, Brazilian Lucas Lopes Reis and Salifu Jatta.
“There’s been a turnover of players. And we’re building it the same way we built it last year,” said Ruzgal during the Davao Aguilas’ team presentation on Wednesday night at the Pardon My French Restaurant in Makati City. In the last two stagings of the PFL, the Aguilas placed runner-up twice to Kaya FC-Iloilo.
Last July, Kaya came up with a 1-0 win over Davao Aguilas-UMAK FC at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Then, Kaya won via penalty shootout in December, 3-4, for the Copa Paulino Alcantara crown.
“We are working hard and pushing our players to play well in the coming season,” said Davao Aguilas FC chairman Jefferson Cheng, during the gathering, that was also attended by club president Mike Atayde and Luis Atayde.
Overall, the Aguilas landed third in the 2024 PFL first conference with their 10-2-2 win-draw-loss record in the group stage.
SUPERHUMAN!
Japan in awe after Ohtani makes pro baseball history
TOKYO—Japan reacted with incredulity and pride on Friday after Shohei Ohtani became the first player in Major League Baseball to record 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season.
The Los Angeles Dodgers star from Japan made history with a seventh-inning homer in a 20-4 victory over the Marlins in Miami.
“We would like to congratulate him from the bottom of our heart,” top government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters in Tokyo.
“We sincerely hope Mr. Ohtani,
who has already accomplished feat after feat and carved out a new era, will thrive further.”
The landmark dominated Japanese morning news shows and social media.
Newspapers rushed out special editions in Tokyo and elsewhere, including in Ohtani’s hometown in the
northern Iwate region.
“As a fellow Iwate native, I’m proud of him,” one woman handed a special copy of the local paper told broadcaster NHK.
Social media users were similarly awe-struck.
“He is too incredible... truly superhuman,” one wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
The 30-year-old Ohtani capped a monster performance by adding another home run in the ninth inning, finishing the game with 51 homers and 51 steals so far this season.
Nicknamed “Sho-Time”, he was a high-school baseball prodigy who signed with the Hokkaido NipponHam Fighters in 2013 and spent five seasons there before joining the Los Angeles Angels. There he won two American League Most Valuable Player awards in six seasons but left last year for free agency.
Following weeks of frenzied speculation, he joined the Dodgers in December. His 10-year, $700-million deal was the richest contract in the history of North American sport. AFP
Pirates edge Chiefs in overtime, 90-86
LYCEUM of the Philippines University rode on the overtime heroics of Mclaude Guadana and John Barba as it rallied to beat Arellano University, 90-86, on Friday to snare its second straight victory in NCAA Season 100 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena. Barba led the way with 25 points while Guadana scattered 12 but their presence was felt more in OT where they accounted for all of their team’s 11 points there as the Pirates improved to 2-2.
Gyle Montano was also heroic with his 17 points, including a big threepointer late in regulation that helped force extra time. It was another heartbreaker for
Jahns’ nerve holds as Garalde, Zaragosa close in
ANTIPOLO—Keanu Jahns faced a real challenge on moving day after back-to-back stellar rounds, yet despite struggles on the back nine, he managed to cling to a two-stroke lead over Randy Garalde, thanks to clutch birdies that salvaged a 71 in the ICTSI Forest Hills Classic on Friday.
What once seemed like a commanding five-shot cushion at the halfway point nearly vanished, leaving the door open for a host of challengers to contend for the title.
Jahns now faces a test of resilience and composure as he chases his elusive first Philippine Golf Tour crown at the Nicklaus course here.
“I struggled with the slow greens and needed time to adjust,” said Jahns. “I had good lines on several birdie and par opportunities, but the pace was just off. It’s all about adjusting for the final round.”
“The key was staying composed,” added the 29-year-old FilGerman, who had taken control with opening rounds of 64 and 67. However, cracks started to show in his game on the challenging back nine. A double bogey on the 11th, after a bogey-two-birdie exchange through the first 10 holes, and another dropped stroke on the 15th saw his lead shrink.
Yet, Jahns rebounded with birdies on the par-5 16th and 17th holes, closing with a 35-36 round to hold on to an 11-under total of 202 in this seventh leg of the 10-stage circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc.
Meanwhile, Garalde continued his consistent play under challenging conditions on a course he knows well, carding an impressive 68. Matching Jahns’ strong finish with birdies on Nos. 16 and 18, he climbed within two strokes of the lead at 204, following earlier rounds of 67 and 69.
Rupert Zaragosa and Sean Ramos are also in contention, matching solid 66s to sit at 205 and 207, respectively. Zaragosa, last year’s Iloilo leg champion, and Ramos, the recent Lakewood Championship winner, are both eyeing another strong finish to claim the P360,000 top prize.
“I’m focused on staying present, taking it one shot at a time, and not forcing anything,” said Jahns, now just 18 holes away from erasing a series of near-misses in pursuit of his first PGT trophy.
Japan’s Ozeki Kakeru carded a 67 for fifth at 208, while South Korea’s Minwook Gwon joined Philippine Masters champion Angelo
Que (70) and Enrico Gallardo (73) at 209 after a 68.
Dino Villanueva turned in a 69 to lead the group at 210, which included Dutchman Guido van der Valk (70) and veteran Tony Lascuña (71).
While many contenders leaned on power and putting, Garalde’s near-flawless short game helped him stay within striking distance.
“My short game really saved me today. I had a lot of one-pitch, oneputt situations despite missing the greens,” said Garalde, who is eyeing his first victory after coming back from injury.
“There’s definitely pressure, but that’s part of the game. You have to embrace it,” Garalde said. “I’ll treat the final round like a practice round with friends – just hit fairways and greens, and accept whatever comes.”
Zaragosa, on the other hand, attributed his success so far to his excellent ball-striking.
“That’s the key here – ball placement. I’ve been consistent with my shots, which has reduced mistakes,” said Zaragosa, who is seeking to add to his first PGT victory from last year. “I’ve also finally gotten a good read on the greens, which were tough the first two
the Chico Manabatcoached Chiefs, who appeared in control late but eventually lost their nerves and missed out on ending its winless start.
It was AU’s second defeat in two games that went the extra period and fourth overall in as many outings.
It didn’t help that the Chiefs bungled 13 of the 23 foul shots they took, including some in the clutch when they could have put the marauding Pirates away.
In contrast, LPU showed nerves of steel and didn’t panic in crunch time to pull off the massive fightback from 11 points down late in the third quarter, 63-52.
Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates in the seventh inning during the game against Miami Marlins at loanDepot park in Miami, Florida. Ohtani is now the rst player in MLB history to reach 50 home runs and 50
GM Julio Catalino Sadorra
Lyceum’s Mclaude Guadana soars for a basket.
TAUSUGFASHION.
Department of Tourism
(DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco lauds the textiles, weaving and creativity of the Tausug people at the commemoration of 643rd Bangsa Sug Day
Anniversary of Local Governance and Public Administration capped by the Pis Sayabit: The Fashion Show in Maimbung, Sulu on Sept. 18, 2024. The Pis Sayabit is a vibrant textile showcase featuring local designers from Sulu’s 19 municipalities, each presenting three distinct outfits. The designs emphasized the beauty of indigenous clothing, reinforcing Sulu’s cultural significance and the province’s remarkable creative talent.
7% 4% 1%
RRR of universal, commercial banks by Oct. 25.
RRR of digital banks by Oct. 25
RRR of thrift/ savings banks by Oct. 25
NEDA lists key reforms to sustain GDP growth
THE government is pushing key reforms in pursuit of sustained and inclusive growth, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
Speaking at the Fourth Philippines-Singapore Business and Investment Summit (PSBIS) on Thursday, NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan identified these reforms as the Rationalization of the Mining Fiscal Regime, Amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act and the Excise Tax on Single-Use Plastics. He said the creation of the Department of Water Resources would also help strengthen the governance of the water sector and enhance water resources management.
Balisacan said the government’s strategies for sustainable growth and a greener future hinge on robust investments in infrastructure and innovation to enhance the country’s resilience against climate shocks.
During the session titled “Green Blueprint: Economic Outlook, Priority Expenditures and Strategic Investment Priorities,” Balisacan highlighted the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028. He outlined the government’s priority strategies for fostering climate-resilient and adaptive ecosystems and communities, with a strong focus on building essential infrastructure.
“The Philippines is one of the countries most vulnerable to the impact of climate change and compounding disasters, ranking first among 193 countries based on the 2023 World Risk Report. We acknowledge that significant investments in sustainable and resilient infrastructure are necessary to enhance our economy’s resilience to shocks, further protect our environment, and even kick-start the creation of high-quality jobs,” said Balisacan.
Bangko Sentral cuts banks’ reserve requirement ratios
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Friday it will implement a 250-basis-point reduction in the reserve requirement ratios (RRRs) of universal and commercial banks and non-banks with quasi-banking functions (NBQBs) starting Oct. 25, 2024.
It will also reduce the RRR of digital banks by 200 bps and those of thrift banks and rural/cooperative banks (RCBs) by 100 bps.
After the reduction, the RRRs of universal and commercial banks and NBQBs will be 7 percent, down from 9.5 percent; digital banks to 4 percent; TBs to 1 percent; and RCBs to zero.
“The new ratios shall take effect
on the reserve week beginning on Oct. 25, 2024 and shall apply to the local currency deposits and deposit substitute liabilities of banks and NBQBs,” the BSP said.
BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. earlier said the RRR would further be reduced by next year.
Reserve requirements are the minimum reserves required for
depository institutions. They are set by the central bank within limits specified by law. A change in the minimum reserve ratio affects the amount of deposits a financial institution can lend out.
The BSP said the adjustments in reserve requirements are in line with its continuing efforts to reduce distortions in the financial system.
“The reductions will lower intermediation costs and promote better pricing for financial services,” the BSP said.
“As inflation continues to track a target-consistent path over the next two years, the BSP will reassess the need for further reductions in the RRRs to better align them with regional norms over the medium term,” it said.
CLIMATE PROJECT. The Department of Agriculture (DA), Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration and the Food and Agriculture Organization sign the tripartite operational partners agreement for the $39.2-million Adapting Philippine Agriculture to Climate Change (APA) project, benefiting 1.25-million farmers in the climate-vulnerable regions in the country. Signing the agreement on Sept. 17, 2024 are (from left) FAO Representative in the Philippines Dr. Lionel Dabbadie, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and PAGASA administrator Dr. Nathaniel Servando.
Malaysian firm signs deal to explore Mindanao oil fields
By Alena Mae S. Flores
MALAYSIAN company Blackbrique
Investment Limited and SK Liguasan Oil and Gas Corp. (SKLOGC) signed a memorandum of understanding that would pave the way for the commercial development of oil and gas fields in Mindanao.
The MOU aims to establish a framework for collaboration on key projects in the upstream and downstream energy industries, promoting innovation, sustainability and mutual growth
The parties said in a statement that with the MOU, both companies are committed to exploring opportunities in the energy market that align with
their strategic goals. Blackbrique’s expertise in energy investment and SKLOGC’s operational capabilities provide a strong foundation for achieving success.
Blackbrique, an offshore entity in Labuan Malaysia, will be responsible to raise funds and bring international contractors to develop the oil and gas fields awarded to SKLOGC in Mindanao.
SKLOGC, which owns Petroleum Service Contract No. 77 covering the development of the onshore Cotabato Basin, including the Liguasan Marsh, announced in 2022 that it was looking for potential investors.
Its service contract covers a 72,000-hectare petroleum-
Carbon-neutral solutions eyed for New Clark City
STATE-RUN Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Danfoss Philippines Inc. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop a decarbonization framework for New Clark City in Tarlac province.
The partnership is seen to drive the adoption of energy-efficient and carbon-neutral technologies in the city’s development.
“With this decarbonization program, we aim to position New Clark City as a model and benchmark for other cities in the Philippines—and even around the globe—that are striving to achieve a netzero transition,” said BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang.
The MOU includes a study on implementing a decarbonization program, as-
sessing the feasibility of smart store systems, district cooling and a sustainability technology center.
Danfoss, a Danish company specializing in energy-efficient solutions, will provide technical expertise and knowledge for the initiative.
“By offering a roadmap for green urban transition, it shows how cities can act as ambitious, inspirational, frontrunners that showcase green technology and create attractive places to live and work. We, in Danfoss, together with the Danish embassy are happy to share our new technology in relation to energy efficiency to fulfill the New Clark City vision,” said Danfoss general manager Allan Alfredo Almendrala.
Othel V. Campos
prospective area in the onshore Cotabato Basin, a 1.2-millionhectare area in Central Mindanao covering the provinces of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, North and South Cotabato and includes Liguasan Marsh.
The MOU signing ceremony was held on Thursday and witnessed by representatives from Bangsamoro Oil and Fuels Corp. and Re Nexus Sdn Bhd, underscoring the importance of the partnership in the broader regional energy landscape.
SKLOGC previously identified 22 sites in the Maguindanao-Liguasan area with potential for oil and gas deposits.
TRANSPORT FORUM.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) joins the Italian Chamber of Commerce Philippines (ICCP) for the Transport and Logistics Forum 2024 on Sept. 18, 2024.
DOTr assistant secretary for communications and commuter affairs Hector Villacorta (left) represents Secretary Jaime Bautista and underscores the efforts of the department in connectivity and intermodality towards efficient movement of people and goods.
By Othel V. Campos
AG&P Industrial, a leading infrastructure development company, said Friday it completed and shipped the first batch of outside battery limit (OSBL) modules for its first European contract with INEOS, a major chemical company. The modules, fabricated at AG&P’s Batangas yard, will support INEOS’ Project ONE, a sustainable ethane cracker plant in Belgium.
“INEOS Project ONE represents AG&P Industrial’s global prowess to serve Australia, Asia, the US, and now, Europe, and affirms our worldclass capabilities, qualifications, market-leading credentials, and proven track record. It also represents AG&P Industrial’s commitment to contribute to lowering carbon emissions across the world,” said AG&P president and managing director of global business development Alex Gamboa.
INEOS selected AG&P from top global yards due to their certifications and adherence to European industry standards. Project ONE is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions by two million metric tons per year (MTPY) compared to current alternatives.
Haus Talk buys 37-hectare Rizal property for P1b
By Jenniffer B. Austria
PROPERTY developer Haus Talk
Inc. (HTI) said Friday it acquired a 37-hectare property in Angono and Teresa, Rizal for P1 billion.
HTI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange its board approved the acquisition of the property from Liberty Flour Mills Inc. (LFM) to enable it to expand its land bank for future development.
“This transaction expands HTI’s land portfolio and reinforces its vision of becoming the most valued and recognized property developer that provides ‘value for money’ residential real estate projects by investing in prime land locations,” the company said.
The project would become HTI’s first mixed-use development project in Rizal and was expected to bring in revenues of about P9 billion.
Land development for the area is expected to commence by the fourth quarter of 2025.
The property includes eight contiguous parcels of land with a total area of 372,201 square meters. LFM has not been using the property for its business operations.
HTI said it would fund the acquisition from internally-generated fundsand bank loans on an about 30-70 percent split.
It will pay an earnest money of P10 million upon signing of the memorandum of agreement and five installment payments in a span of two years.
The company obtained letters of credit from Security Bank Corp., China Banking Corp. and other banks amounting to P758.2 million to guarantee the payment of the purchase price.
HTI broke ground on two new residential projects in April that lie close to each other in Antipolo City, Rizal, which would generate P800 million in proceeds.
HTI, owned by the Madlambayan family, was listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange in April 2022. It primarily develops horizontal and vertical residential projects in select cities of Metro Manila as well as in Rizal and Laguna provinces.
Manila Water starts Marikina sewage plant maintenance
MANILA Water Co. Inc. said it is carrying out a maintenance project at its Marikina North Sewage Plant (STP) and terminal pumping station (TPS) to ensure service reliability and strict compliance with the environmental standards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Part of the project involves the installation of additional sewage submersible pumps, nominal diameter (DN) 400 and 500 pipes, and a full-bore electro-magnetic flowmeter.
These enhancements will increase the plant’s capacity and redundancy, ensuring continuous wastewater treatment even during peak flow periods.
Electrical upgrades were also implemented, including the installation of an auxiliary supply and control transformer, a motor isolator and disconnect switch, and the integration of new soft starters with the existing Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. These improvements, which are expected to be completed by October, will help ensure the facility’s adaptability to current operations.
Manila Water said it is investing in the future resilience of its wastewater management services while maintaining its 100-percent score in its wastewater effluent quality by upgrading the SCADA system and enhancing the power supply infrastructure of the Marikina North STP and TPS.
“Manila Water believes these improvements in our wastewater services will not just be beneficial for our customers but also to our waterways. Upgrading the efficiency of our wastewater treatment plants will ensure our effluent water will not harm the health of our rivers,” said Manila Water corporate communication affairs group director Jeric Sevilla.
Nextnorth to start construction of massive Isabela solar project
Miguel Mapa, the visionary founder of Nextnorth Holdings Corp., has over five years of experience in pioneering renewable energy projects in the Philippines. Nextnorth and partner French firm TotalEnergies plan to hold the groundbreaking for the P18-billion, 440-megawatt project in Ilagan, Isabela in December 2024 or the first quarter of 2025.
THE Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) approved the P4.2-billion share sale of DITO CME Holdings Corp. led by businessman Dennis Uy.
Based on the notice posted on the PSE website, DITO CME will sell 1.953 billon primary common shares for P1 to P2.15 apiece.
The final price will be announced on Sept. 23, 2024, while the offer period will be from Sept. 26 to Oct. 2, 2024. The shares will be listed on the
By Alena Mae S. Flores
NEXTNORTH
Holdings Corp. and partner French firm TotalEnergies plan to hold the groundbreaking for one of the largest solar farms in the Philippines—a 440-megawatt facility in Ilagan City, Isabela by December 2024 or the first quarter of 2025.
The P18-billion project is expected to generate thousands of jobs for local communities in Isabela, said Miguel Mapa, the 33-year-old founder, president and chief executive of Nextnorth.
“This is an infrastructure project technically as well with a project cost of around P18 billion. There are multiple permits, multiple financial arrangements, and many other commercial arrangements that you have to get in place before you actually break ground,” Mapa said in an interview.
“Based on our calendar, we’re trying to break ground within the next few months. Realistically, because we’re entering the holiday season, which was our goal, by December, or first quarter of next year which is really the realistic time,” he said.
Mapa said they would undertake the project construction in phases and would take around 15 to 18 months, with commercial operations eyed by the third quarter of 2026.
He said at the peak of the construction, the solar project will need around 4,000 workers.
“Aside from building the power plant itself, [we are] contributing to the local economy because a lot of these workers that we will ask to participate and help us, will be sourced first within the local communities. Operationally, it’s going to generate maybe between 100 and 200 employment,” he said.
Mapa said the company is confident of securing supply contracts for the power plant’s capacity.
“In terms of power supply, the buyers of power, there is really a market… Now, it’s actually the other way around. We’re seeing the demand outweigh the supply in terms of renewables. Electric utilities and electricity suppliers who service the end customers, they are the ones who approach, look for renewable energy capacity,” Mapa said. He said the government opened the market for consumers to be able to choose their suppliers. “More and more end-customers such as factories, etc. are choosing to procure energy. They want green energy,” he said.
Mapa said NextNorth is also looking at developing more renewable energy projects including run-of-rive hydropower plants in Northern Luzon.
PSE approves DITO CME’s P4.2-b share sale to support expansion
PSE on Oct. 10, 2024.
The company said it would use the proceeds to fund the commercial rollout of its network expansion and for general corporate purposes.
The company tapped BDO Capital & Investment Corp. as the sole underwriter for the transaction.
DITO CME reported in July that it was planning to raise up to P40.26 billion until 2028 to address its negative equity position and support its expansion plans. The company raised P5.5 billion as of end-2023 from private investments made by third parties Xterra Ventures Pte Ltd., Summit Telco Corp. Pte Ltd. and Summit Telco Holdings Corp. DITO Telecommunity has over 11.3 million subscribers and about 7,450 telecommunications towers, covering over 80.65 percent of the Philippine’s population as of June 2024.
INNOVATION AWARD. Executives of Manila Electric Co. bring home the Asia IoT Business Platform (AIBP) ASEAN Enterprise Innovation Award for Certified by Meralco platform, its customer-centric digital initiative that offers end-to-end solutions for the power distributor’s close to eight million customers. Meralco’s winning entry showcases the power distributor’s workflow and standards-based solution, touted as the first of its kind in the Philippine electric utility industry.
PSE index breaches 7,300 level before ending lower on RRR cut
THE Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) sustained its rally Friday, boosted by investor optimism after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas cut the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) of local banks.
The 30-company benchmark climbed as high as 7,300 at midtrading before closing at 7,252.32, still up by 50.16 points. The broader all-shares index ended at 3,895.62, up by 23.94 points, or 0.62 percent from Thursday.
All indices ended in the green, except for property which declined by 0.70 percent. Financials rose 2.25 percent, while industrial went up by 1.13 percent. Services also increased by 0.92 percent, mining by 0.91 percent and holding firms by 0.66 percent.
“This RRR cut will be good for banks as it will help boost margins. It will also lead to lower borrowing costs, which will hopefully trickle down to the economy sooner than later,” COL Financial research head April Lee-Tan said.
The BSP reduced RRR by 250 basis points for universal banks to 7 percent. It also cut the RRR by 200 bps for digital banks and 100 bps for thrift, rural and cooperative banks effective Oct. 25, 2024.
“In plain English, that’s an estimated P375 billion in fresh cash released into the economy,” said William Cabangon, president of AAA Securities. Value turnover reached P14 billion, boosted by foreign buying which amounted to P1.28 billion.
Meanwhile, property developer Ayala Land Inc. said Friday it raised P2.715 billion from the sale of AREIT Inc. shares via an overnight placement of shares. ALI sold 75 million AREIT shares at P36.20 apiece, the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange. The overnight placement, handled by UBS AG Singapore Branch and BPI Capital Corp., was multiple times oversubscribed, given the solid demand from high-quality, long-only institutional investors. Jenniffer B. Austria SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21,
DITO CME widened its net loss to P28.19 billion in the first half of 2024 from P3.18-billion net loss in the same period last year.
Net loss in the second quarter ballooned to P18.1 billion from P2.47 billion a year earlier.
Consolidated net revenues, mainly generated by DITO Telecommunity, soared to P7.6 billion million in first half from P5.96 billion in 2023.
Jenniffer B. Austria
Meralco ready to work with electric cooperatives to power the countryside
MANILA Electric Company (Meralco), the country’s most technologically-advanced distribution utility, said its existing critical infrastructure can readily be used by electric cooperatives (ECs) to power up the rest of the country.
Meralco senior vice president Arnel Casanova said during the 45th Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association’s (PHILRECA) annual general membership meeting that for economic progress to move to the countryside, electric cooperatives have the option to work in unity with distribution utilities to bring electricity to the entire country in a 24/7 service that is reliable, affordable and sustainable.
Casanova showcased the technological innovations that Meralco could leverage to help electric co-
operatives enhance their capability to provide reliable and stable electricity during his talk before energy stakeholders composed of National Electrification Administration (NEA) officials, executives from private and independent power producers and PHILRECA management and partners during the technical session titled “Tech the Next Step: Shaping Tomorrow’s Energy Landscape through Cutting-Edge Innovations,” Casanova said these innovations include the SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems that use predictive data analytics to ensure power is quickly restored or prevent power interruption.
“We are also upgrading our SCADA systems to help ensure that power is quickly restored if tripping occurs,” he said.
BUSINESS
Lapu Lapu top site for new hotel investments in PH
LAPU LAPU City in Cebu and Panglao in Bohol are the top hotel investment destinations in the Philippines, according to a report by the Philippine Hotel Owners Association (PHOA) and Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC).
The inaugural report provides critical information on hotel, resort and other accommodation projects in the country that are in the planning and/or construction stages. It includes data on the number of hotel projects and room keys, classification breakdowns, indicative investment costs and jobs generated.
“Both international and local brands are expanding rapidly, with a notable increase in projects across key areas like Metro Manila, Cebu City and Davao, as well as emerging destinations such as Panglao, Mactan and Palawan. This geographic diversity reflects developers’ efforts to capture the evolving demands of both leisure and business travelers,” according to the report.
“The rise of alternative accommodation models such as condotels, serviced apartments and branded residences, signals a shift in market preferences. These flexible investment options cater to both travelers seeking home-like stays and investors looking for long-term returns,” it says.
The report says of the more than 40,000 hotel rooms in the pipeline, Lapu-Lapu City leads the country with 4,786 keys across 10 projects, averaging 435 keys per accommodation.
Key projects include local brands like Aruga by Rockwell, Hotel 101 and Abaca, along with international brands such as Pullman, Fairfield by Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton.
Panglao Island ranked second with 4,401 keys planned across 16 projects. Local projects like Henann, Solea and Modala (expansion) are driving growth, while upcoming international brands include South Palms Resort – MGallery, JW Marriott and Crown Regency Grand Paradise Resort under Radisson Individuals.
Boracay maintains its status as a top tourist destination in the Philippines, with 3,625 keys in the pipeline, ranking third nationwide. DoubleDragon’s Hotel 101 accounts for 1,001 of these keys. Upcoming projects include Fridays Boracay under the Radisson Collection, Henann’s new luxury resort Anali.
Parañaque also attracted significant interest from major local developers. With 2,863 keys in the pipeline, Parañaque leads Metro Manila and ranks fifth nationwide. Notable upcoming projects include the Westside City Resorts by Suntrust Resort Holdings, Hotel Okura Manila Bayshore and Banyan Tree Manila Bay.
Motorcycle group joins campaign vs. fake products
By Othel V. Campos
THE Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association Inc. (MDPPA) joined the campaign against the proliferation of fake products on online platforms led by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL).
“The risk counterfeit motor parts and accessories pose to public safety makes it imperative for government agencies, industries, and platforms to work together to efficiently act on solutions,” said MDPPA president Alexander Cumpas.
The group recently signed an e-commerce memorandum of understanding (MOU), a collaborative effort to combat the sale of counterfeit motorcycle parts and accessories that endanger motorists and passengers. IPOPHL deputy director-general Nathaniel Arevalo highlighted the significance of MDPPA’s participation to ensure public safety as motorcycles become an increasingly popular mode of transportation and livelihood. He cited data released by the Congressional Policy and Budget Research
DOT signs agreement with Sulu to build tourist rest area in Patikul
THE Department of Tourism (DOT) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the provincial government of Sulu to ensure the sustainability of the tourism rest area (TRA) project in Patikul.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the groundbreaking for a new TRA in Patikul, bringing in economic opportunities and boosting confidence in the local tourism industry.
“Tourism, when managed sustainably,
Industry players gather in Davao for Tatak forum
NEARLY 200 industry stakeholders across Mindanao gathered in Davao City for the Tatak Pinoy Act (TPA) regional forum organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Aug. 28, 2024.
The two-day event aimed to address critical challenges and outline strategies for enhancing productivity and competitiveness across various industries under Republic Act No. 11981, also known as the Tatak Pinoy Act.
DTI chief of staff Blesila Lantayona highlighted in her keynote address the importance of the TPA in driving the country’s economic complexity by promoting higher-quality, more complex products and services. She said the law would uplift local industries, create high-paying jobs and strengthen the Philippines’ position in the global market. “By identifying the challenges and tapping into regional strengths, we can significantly enhance the global competitiveness of our industries,” Lantayona said.
Stakeholders from the cacao, palm oil, coffee, coconut, information and communications technology (ICT) and creative industries participated in breakout sessions to discuss their respective challenges and propose solutions.
The cacao industry identified insuffi cient raw material supply, a preference for international buyers and a need for entrepreneurial development among farmers as major obstacles. Participants proposed establishing a consolidation system and creating a Mindanao Cacao brand to address these issues.
High logistics costs and limited technology adoption were cited as significant concerns in the palm oil industry.
becomes a force that uplifts communities. It brings revenue and opens opportunities for economic growth and cultural exchange. This Tourist Rest Area is the physical embodiment of the vision of our President, where tourism drives economic growth and promotes, most importantly, our identity as Filipinos,” she said.
The Patikul TRA will cater to the specific needs of the province by including a prayer room for Muslim visitors. Su-
lu’s rich cultural heritage, as showcased during the Bangsa Sug Day celebrations, further enhances its tourism appeal.
Frasco expressed confidence in Sulu’s tourism potential and its ability to inspire other provinces.
The new TRA in Sulu serves as a symbol of the government’s dedication to developing tourism in the region, she said.
“What sets Sulu apart is its distinct ability to offer experiences from no-
where else, the deep-rooted traditions passed on through generations, the centuries-old artistry evident in Pis Siyabit weaving, the intricate culinary heritage of the Tausug people. These are what make Sulu an exceptional destination for both local and international tourists,” Frasco said.
The DOT actively promotes Halal tourism, recognizing its potential for both cultural preservation and economic growth. Othel V. Campos
PRICE FREEZE. A Department of Trade and Industry Iloilo
Department (CPBRD) showing that motorcycles booked the highest increase among all vehicle types traversing Metro Manila, growing from only 443,340 in 2013 to 1.6 million in 2023. Its growth was driven by the rise of e-commerce deliveries and the mainstreaming of motorcycle taxis-for-hire.
“With more motorcycle users, counterfeiters have found an opportunity to sell counterfeit parts that could cause accidents and counterfeit accessories that fail to cushion the impact of crashes and falls,” Arevalo said.
THE National Privacy Commission (NPC) said it welcomes the Department of Interior and Local Government’s ‘s Memorandum Circular No. 2024-135, which strengthens data privacy compliance across all local government units (LGUs) in the country.
The circular updates LGU obligations to align with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and recent NPC guidelines.
Key provisions of the circular include the mandatory registration of data processing systems with the NPC for LGUs handling personal or sensitive information, the appointment of data protection officers (DPOs) at the provincial, city and municipal levels, with cities or municipalities having the option to assign compliance officers for privacy to each barangay.
It also emphasizes the prominent display of the NPC seal of registration on LGU websites and offices and highlights potential administrative sanctions for non-compliance.
NPC lauds DILG order boosting LGUs compliance with data privacy Smart
donates computers to support permit streamlining project
THE Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and Smart Communications (Smart) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on Sept.17, 2024, providing additional support to the PaspasPilipinasPaspas Project.
The project aims to boost the streamlining and digitalization of business permits, related clearances, licenses and authorizations of local government units (LGUs) across the country.
Under the MOA, Smart committed to providing 100 computer units — 50 desktops and 50 laptops — to selected LGUs nationwide. These units will be crucial for establishing and operating their respective electronic Business One-Stop Shop (eBOSS).
“Smart has been one of our most valuable partners in this endeavor, actively participating in collaborative meetings and helping shape policies and guidelines that ensure the efficient deployment of telecommunications towers,” said ARTA Secretary Ernesto Perez.
Section 11 of Republic Act (RA) No. 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Law, mandates all cities and municipalities to automate their business permitting and licensing systems or establish an eBOSS.
Smart chairman and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan underscored the company’s commitment to helping digitize government operations.
“I would like to reaffi rm, on behalf of PLDT-Smart and the MVP Group, our commitment to you [ARTA] and our support to the Marcos administration,” he said. Othel V. Campos Manila Standard TODAY
“LGUs collect and process vast amount of personal data from their constituents and this directive from DILG marks a vital step toward enforcing responsible data management at every level. By setting clear standards, we are not just ensuring compliance—we are safeguarding the privacy rights of millions of Filipinos,” said NPC commissioner Henry Naga. He said the NPC would continue to guide LGUs for effective implementation of these data protection measures. Failure to comply with the provisions of M.C. No. 2024-135 may subject LGUs to administrative sanctions as provided under the DPA.
The DILG M.C. No. 2024-135, approved on Sept. 12, 2024, takes effect immediately, underscoring the urgency and importance of prioritizing data privacy within LGUs. Othel V. Campos
This Notice is hereby given to the general Public that effective April 17, 2024, Ms. Marianita D. Bustria is a new appointed Director of E-GMP International Corporation with DMW License 232-LB12212023-R, located at 3rd Floor MJL Bldg. 1175 Chino Roces Ave., Brgy. San Antonio, Makati City.
This publication is posted in compliance with DMW rules and regulations.
The Philippine Hotel Owners Association (PHOA) and Leechiu Property Consultants (LPC) launch the Philippine
Accommodation Pipeline Report 2024 on Sept. 17, 2024 at the Lanson Place Mall of Asia in Pasay City. Attending the event are (from left) PHOA executive director Benito Bengzon Jr., PHOA treasurer and PHINMA Microtel Hotels Inc. president Jose
Mari del Rosario, SM Hotels and Conventions Center executive vice president Peggy Angeles, PHOA president and Waterfront Manila Hotel and Casino chairman Arthur Lopez, LPC director for hotels, tourism and leisure Alfred Lay, Nurture Wellness
Village president and owner Cathy Turvill, Bonifacio Landmark Hotel Management Corp. president Hans Hauri and New World Makati Hotel general manager Nantha Kumar.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2024
extrastory2000@gmail.com
RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor
ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
Middle class crucial to driving long-term growth, says NEDA
A ROBUST middle class is crucial in driving the country’s long-term growth and development, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, in his keynote address at the 10th Annual Public Policy Conference (APPC) on Sept. 19, 2024 at Makati Shangri-La Hotel, stressed the importance of leveraging global megatrends such as digitalization and climate action to empower the middle class and achieve the nation’s long-term vision.
“The middle class plays a pivotal role as the engine of our nation’s economic growth… Their steady income, investments in education, and consistent consumption of goods and services fuel economic progress and provide opportunities for broader national de-
velopment,” Balisacan said.
“As the most mobile segment of our society, the middle class is uniquely positioned to participate in decision-making and stay attuned to sociopolitical conditions, leading to greater opportunities for upward mobility… We aim to expand this productive and empowered middle class through the strategies outlined in the Philippine Development Plan [PDP] 2023-2028,” he said.
Discussing the country’s aspiration to achieve upper middle-income country (UMIC) status, Balisacan said that with the right policies and a generally favorable external environment, the Philippines can sustain its upward momentum to reach a gross national income per capita level that places the economy within upper-middle-income country territory by late next year.
GIR nears $108b as BOP posts surplus
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE country’s gross international reserves (GIR) reached nearly $108 billion as the balance of payments (BOP) yielded another surplus in August 2024.
Data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas show that the BOP position posted a surplus of $88 million in August 2024, reversing the $57-million deficit registered in the same month last year. It said the surplus was mainly due to the net income from the BSP’s foreign investments.
The BOP surplus in August brought the eight-month BOP level to a
$1.6-billion surplus, lower than the $2.1-billion surplus recorded from January to August 2023. Preliminary data showed that the cumulative BOP surplus reflected mainly the narrowing trade in goods deficit, alongside the continued net inflows from personal remittances, trade in services, net foreign direct investments, net foreign borrowings by
BOI, BOC, CAMPI team up to streamline customs procedures on car parts imports
THE Board of Investments (BOI), in collaboration with the Bureau of Customs-Manila International Container Port (BOC-MICP) and the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI), committed to enhancing customs procedures for the importation of motor vehicle parts.
BOC-MICP, in a meeting on Sept. 16, 2024 in Manila, welcomed BOI and CAMPI as new members of the Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC).
Key attendees included BOI executive director Bobby Fondevilla; Ernesto Delos Reyes Jr., director of the Investment Assistance Service (IAS); district collector Carmelita Talusan; and CAMPI president Rommel Gutierrez. The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration to modernize customs procedures and support the automotive
industry’s growth.
“This partnership will effectively address the challenges faced by our importers and promote long-term, sustainable growth for the automotive industry in the country,” said Fondevilla.
Delos Reyes noted the importance of having a dedicated focal person from BOC to assist investors engaging with the BOI. “It is crucial to adopt a holistic government approach to have effective and efficient investment facilitation to sustain investments in the country,” he said.
Talusan reiterated BOC’s unwavering support for BOI, CAMPI, and the local automotive industry. “We are committed to providing a more efficient and transparent customs process to support the competitiveness of the automotive sector. The partnership with BOI and CAMPI is crucial in advancing the country’s economic growth,” she said.
the national government (NG) and net foreign portfolio investments.
The BOP position reflects an increase in the final gross international reserves (GIR) level to $107.9 billion as of end-August 2024 from $106.7 billion as of end-July 2024.
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.
It was also about six times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 3.8 times based on residual maturity.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp.
chief economist Michael Ricafort said the latest BOP and GIR data were likely supported by the continued growth in the country’s structural US dollar inflows such as OFW remittances, BPO revenues, exports, foreign investments and foreign tourism revenues.
“For the coming months, BOP data could still improve with the continued increase/growth in the country’s structural inflows as the economy reopens/recovers further towards greater normalcy, in terms of the continued year-on-year growth in OFW remittances [new record highs on a monthly basis posted in December 2023,]” Ricafort said.
DITO Telecom passes fifth NTC performance audit, achieves 86.3% coverage
DITO Telecommunity Corp. said Friday it passed its fifth mandatory performance audit by the National Telecommunications Commission. NTC said its independent auditor, R.G. Manabat & Co. found that DITO had a national population coverage of 86.30 percent. It said that with respect to the minimum average broadband speeds (MABS), DITO delivered 92.87 megabists per second (Mbps) for 4G and 597.70 Mbps for 5G for all sites.
Based on the factual findings of the independent auditor, NTC said DITO “passed” the technical audit of its national population coverage and MABS for the fifth year.
The yearly independent audit is part of the conditions set forth in the certificate of public convenience and necessity given to the telco.
DITO Tel had more than 11.3 million subscribers as of August 2024, resulting in increasing cash flows
from operations.
The company said it expects to be EBITDA [earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization] positive by end-2025 and profitable by end-2028.
Its parent firm, DITO CME Holdings Corp., earlier said it was aiming to raise up to P40.26 billion until 2028 to address its negative equity positions and finance its expansion plan.
The company raised P5.5 billion as
SECURITY Bank Corp. ramped up its support for micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) and corporate clients with the launch of Security Bank Collect—a new channel that enables them to offer various payment options online. As a digital payment channel, Security Bank Collect accepts credit, debit and prepaid cards such as Mastercard, Visa and JCB and e-wallets such as GCash, Maya, WeChatPay, AliPay and UnionPay. The platform is powered by Magpie.IM Inc, a leading digital payment service provider that centralizes sales invoicing and payment collections for businesses on one platform. Security Bank Collect was developed by the bank’s business banking segment (BBS) to address MSMEs’
of end-2023 through private investments made by third parties Xterra Ventures, Pte Ltd., Summit Telco Corporation Pte Ltd. and Summit Telco Holdings Corp.
DITO CME reported a total comprehensive loss amounting to P19.56 billion in 2023, resulting in a capital deficiency of P35.37 billion. Its capital deficiency increased to P44.43 billion as of end-March 2024. Darwin G. Amojelar
challenges, including limited payment options for buyers, manual reconciliation and monitoring of payments for sellers and high balance and transaction requirements for POS systems for sellers.
“Security Bank Collect is another step forward in our mission to empower businesses,” said John David Yap, senior vice president and business banking head at Security Bank.
“This platform not only broadens the spectrum of payment options available to merchants but also streamlines the entire payment process. By enabling real-time monitoring and reconciliation of payments, Security Bank Collect removes many of the traditional barriers faced by MSMEs, allowing them to focus on growth and innovation,” said Yap.
IN BRIEF
Darwin G. Amojelar FWD introduces mental health plan FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) launched The One for mental wellbeing, an innovative new insurance plan that helps address mental health concerns among Filipinos.
The One for mental wellbeing offers a one-year customizable plan with life protection for people who seek better self-care. It also includes coverage for accidental death and critical illnesses, including cerebral aneurysm, chronic lung disease, and cancer, which can be associated to individuals who face mental health challenges.
Policyholders can have full-year access to the ThoughtFull mobile app, where they can engage in unlimited mental wellness coaching and therapy sessions with certified mental health professionals through audio or text message, and up to three (3) one-on-one live video therapy sessions for up to an hour each.
“As the insurer of the next generation, we are committed to providing innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of the Filipinos,” said FWD chief marketing and digital business officer Roche Vandenberghe.
“It is critical, now more than ever, to make mental health resources more accessible and affordable so that more people can take a step towards bettering themselves and addressing their personal challenges—both confidently and confidentially,” said Vandenberghe.
L’Oréal names new PH managing director
L’ORÉAL announced the appointment of Yassine Bakkari as the new managing director to spearhead the
UK SYMPOSIUM. Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. presents the BIR’s fight against ghost receipts during the Cambridge International Symposium on Economic Crime (CIDOEC) at Cambridge,
United Kingdom on Sept. 3, 2024. Lumagui is the first government official in the Philippines to have been invited as speaker in the said event.
The Board of Investments (BOI), in collaboration with the Bureau of Customs-
Your new health, lifestyle partner: vivo unveils Watch 3 with 16-day battery life
vivo has taken a bold step into the wearable tech world with the introduction of its first-ever smartwatch, the vivo Watch 3, on September 18, 2024.
The grand unveiling occurred alongside the launch of the vivo V40, marking a significant milestone for the brand.
The announcement was made by vivo HQ representative Phil Zong, who introduced this highly anticipated smartwatch packed with innovative features designed to enhance users’ everyday lives. New standard in smart wearables
The vivo Watch 3 boasts a range of advanced health and connectivity features, delivering a seamless experience to users. Its Multi-Channel Star Ring Health Monitoring system offers precise and comprehensive health tracking.
Equipped with 8-channel heart rate and 16-channel blood oxygen monitoring, it ensures accurate detection of vital health data. Additional features include stress monitoring, noise detection, sleep monitoring with a silent mode, and access to over 100 sports modes, making it the perfect companion for health enthusiasts.
Connectivity is at the forefront of the vivo Watch 3’s capabilities. It supports cross-device interconnection, allowing users to pair it with their vivo phones to manage calls, music, and more directly from their wrists. This enhanced interactivity ensures that users can stay connected and in control, no matter where they are.
One of the standout features of the vivo Watch 3 is its remarkable 16-day battery life. This ultra-long battery life guarantees uninterrupted use for over two weeks without needing a recharge. From daily commutes to weekend adventures, this smartwatch ensures users can stay connected and active without the need for frequent recharging. The vivid AMOLED display offers multiple watch
face options, enabling users to switch styles effortlessly. Its lightweight design, weighing only 36 grams, ensures maximum comfort for all-day wear.
Additionally, the vivo Watch 3 is NFC-enabled, allowing users to store up to four access cards on their wrists.
Powered by vivo BlueOS and designed for style
Running on vivo’s self-developed BlueOS, the vivo Watch 3 offers an intuitive, smart wrist experience with its negative one-screen. This new operating system ensures a smooth and responsive user interface.
The watch features a trendy, borderless 3D large curved glass design, complemented by interchangeable bands. Available in Asteroid Black and Moonlight White, it caters to various style preferences, seamlessly transitioning from casual to formal settings.
Affordable pricing for wellness and style
Hazel Bascon, vivo Philippines Vice President of Sales, revealed the pricing of the vivo Watch 3 during the vivo V40 Grand Launch.
She emphasized the affordability of this feature-packed wearable, stating, “And just like the V40, we’ve made it incredibly affordable. The Asteroid Black variant is priced at P13,999, while the Moonlight White is available for P14,999. It’s a stylish, featurepacked wearable that brings health and technology right into your wrist without breaking the bank.”
Power your smart life now with vivo Watch 3! It is available for purchase in any vivo concept store and kiosk nationwide. Customers can also take advantage of installment plans through Home Credit, with up to 18 months of installment options.
Juggling multiple apps? Let Maya simplify your financial life
IN today’s fast-paced world, managing your finances can feel like a never-ending juggling act. Between saving, investing, paying bills, and tracking expenses, it’s easy to find yourself bouncing between multiple apps just to keep everything in check. But what if you could simplify all of this with just one app? Enter Maya, the no. 1 Digital Banking app in the Philippines —the ultimate financial tool that brings everything you need under one roof. One App for Total Financial Control Why waste time and energy switching between different apps when Maya can do it all? Whether you’re saving for a goal, growing your investments, or managing daily
expenses, Maya puts every financial tool you need in one place. No more juggling passwords or losing track of your money—just seamless financial management that saves you time and stress.
Earn While You Spend Imagine boosting your cash flow just by going about your daily routine. With Maya, you can earn up to 15% annual interest on your savings, simply by using the app for your everyday transactions. And if you’re a TNT subscriber, Maya’s new ‘TNT Alkansya’ promo offers 1% cashback plus an extra 1% interest on your savings when you purchase at least ₱100 TNT load. Simplifying your finances never felt so rewarding. Crush Your Financial Goals,
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Have a big goal in mind? Maya’s
Personal Goals feature helps you stay on track with a 4% annual interest boost while you work towards your dream vacation, a new gadget, or an emergency fund. For those extra funds you want to park safely, Maya’s Time Deposit Plus is your spot. Enjoy up to 5.75% annual interest, credited monthly. Manage up to five accounts, each with a maximum of ₱1 million, and lock in your funds for up to 12 months.
Invest Like a Pro, Without the Hassle Ready to dive into investments? Maya Funds makes it a breeze. With Maya, a platform facilitating access to investment opportunities, you can manage 13 professionally curated local and global funds featuring major players like Apple, Microsoft, and PLDT. These funds are managed in collaboration with Seedbox Philippines, ATRAM Trust Corporation, and BIMI, giving you a diversified portfolio to manage risks effectively.
Prefer trading directly? Maya Stocks connects you with top brokers—Philstocks, 2TradeAsia, and DragonFi—so you can trade over 280 companies listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange, like SM and Aboitiz. Just cash in to your broker account and start trading instantly through the Maya app. With realtime insights and powerful tools, you’ve got everything you need to
WARHUGS Esports emerged from grueling back-to-back sessions as the grand champion in this year’s POCO PUBG Mobile Cup held recently. Livestreamed on the official POCO Facebook page, the team outlasted a packed field of over 200 squads after two straight five-hour tournament blocks. WARHUGS beat out 15 other teams on the second day to bring home the title. Meanwhile, ATHRAFSTOS ESPORTS finished second, while INNOCENT ESPORTS REDRUM came in third. For winning first and second respectively, WARHUGS and ATHRAFSTOS received POCO products, including the POCO F6 PRO and POCO F6. The POCO F6 series is the perfect gaming phone that packs premium performance in an affordable package and is also the first batch of phones to support the super-smooth 120 FPS mode on PUBG Mobile. The POCO F6 PRO boasts a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor with LiquiCool Technology 4.0 with IceLoop to maintain temperatures and performance. It also comes with a WQHD+ 120Hz Flow AMOLED to display games and other content crisply and clearly. The POCO F6 PRO also has a 50MP triple camera setup with OIS, and charges from 0 to
throw anyone off balance, but with Maya, you don’t have to dip into your savings. Maya Easy Credit offers a revolving credit limit of up to ₱30,000 with instant approval , so you can access funds quickly and easily. For larger financial needs, Maya Personal Loan provides up to ₱250,000 with no collateral required, credited directly to your Maya Wallet. It’s financial flexibility, simplified.
100 quickly with Smart 120W HyperCharge. Meanwhile, the POCO F6 runs on a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, a CrystalRes 120Hz Flow AMOLED display for stunning visuals, a
the
Trend Micro’s DECODE 2024: Fusion Forward draws over 1,100 participants
leading cybersecurity firm Trend Micro registered a recordbreaking 1,100+ attendees last September 10, at the EDSA Shangri-la hotel. Local IT and cybersecurity professionals came together for a full day of networking, talks, panel discussions, and hands-on activities that highlighted how fusing technologies will aid in pushing forward toward a more resilient and secure future.
“We are beyond grateful for all the support DECODE has received throughout the years. From 500 attendees when we first launched in 2017 to over a thousand this year, we are confident in the future of cybersecurity in the Philippines and will continue to support local professionals in their cybersecurity journeys,” shared Alma Saturnino-Alvarez, Trend Micro’s Director for Threat
Research and founder of DECODE. With 24 track sessions covering topics ranging from AI-assisted cybercrime to automotive security, DECODE 2024 focused on the intersection between various technologies—most notably artificial intelligence, in strengthening one’s security against all kinds of threat actors.
Led by VicOne, a Trend Micro subsidiary focused on automotive cybersecurity solutions, DECODE’s first-ever session on vehicle security was jam-packed with eager attendees. This session raised attendees’ awareness of potential cybercriminal activity involving electric vehicles (EVs) by demonstrating how a car could get hacked via its infotainment and radio frequency systems. The panel discussion held in the afternoon featured global cybersecurity experts from Trend Micro and its partner law enforcement agencies, Robert McArdle (Director of Forward-Looking Threat Research, Trend Micro), Ivo
De Carvalho Peixinho (Head of Cybercrime Intelligence Unit, Interpol), Ritu Gill (Open-Source Intelligence Analyst and Co-Founder, Forensic OSINT), and Ryan Flores (Senior Manager of Forward-Looking Threat Research, Trend Micro APAC). The panel discussed the latest trends and cybercrimes led by generative AI and deep fakes, the value of educating children and raising consumer awareness for cybersecurity, and how organizations big and small can best protect themselves from data breaches and cyber attacks. To wrap up the day’s events, Flores ended his locknote with the message, “AI can accelerate all kinds of things, but learning, understanding, and being creative are the things that differentiate you from AI,” He then implored attendees to take all that they learned throughout the day and use it to “help improve the systems of their respective companies and build things that are secure, ethical, and for the common good.”
The Asteroid Black variant is priced at P13,999, while the Moonlight White is available for P14,999.
Maya is the ultimate financial tool that brings everything you need under one roof.
AWith the dynamic and transformative power of generative AI, YouTube’s new tools aim to provide creators different ways to add creative visual and audio elements to their content that may not have been easily accessible before.
Here’s what YouTube announced at the event:
● Expanded YouTube Shopping: The YouTube Shopping affiliate program is expanding to Indonesia, enabling creators to monetize their content and grow their businesses. Soon, this will launch in Thailand and Vietnam!
● Dream Screen Evolution: The popular Dream Screen feature will be enhanced with Google DeepMind’s
DYSON announces a new collaboration with AC Milan, as the iconic Milanese football club kicks off the first weeks of the season.
Squad members including Laura Giuliani, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Noah Okafor, Tammy Abraham and Strahinja Pavlovićwill incorporate Dyson’s innovative audio technology into their training as they prepare for the championship season ahead.
The collaboration unites two icons known for their ability to disrupt and redefine the parameters of success in their respective fields. In fact, the project is based on the values that Dyson and AC Milan share: from innovation to inclusiveness, through the desire for continuous improvement.
Dyson’s latest innovation is selected as the protagonist of the collaboration: Dyson OnTracTM its first highfidelity and audio-only headphones, which mark the official entry of Dy-
HANGZHOU—Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, recently announced it has released over 100 of its newly launched large language models, Qwen 2.5, to the global opensource community. This significant contribution was revealed at the Apsara Conference, its annual flagship event.
In addition, Alibaba Cloud has unveiled a revamped full-stack infrastructure designed tomeet the growing demands for robust AI computing. This new infrastructure includes innovative cloud products and services that enhance computing, networking, and data center architecture, all aimed at supporting the thriving development and wide-range
Veo model, allowing creators to generate even more realistic and imaginative video backgrounds.
● AI-Powered Video Generation: Creators can now generate standalone six-second video clips using Veo, providing a seamless way to complete their content.
● Enhanced Inspiration Tab: A revamped Inspiration Tab in YouTube Studio will offer AI-generated suggestions for video ideas, titles, thumbnails, and outlines.
● Deepening Fan Connections: YouTube is introducing Communities, a dedicated space for creators to foster stronger bonds with their most loyal fans.
● Rising Star Recognition: The
Hype feature will allow fans to support emerging creators and help them reach wider audiences.
● Global Reach with Automatic Dubbing: Creators can now generate translated audio tracks for their videos in multiple languages, expanding their reach to a global audience.
● Enhanced Monetization Opportunities: YouTube is introducing gifts, powered by Jewels, to provide creators with new ways to earn and engage with their fans.
● Improved TV Experience: YouTube is introducing new features for TV viewers, including organized seasons and episodes, immersive content, and streamlined subscription options.
Creators will be able to use these new tools and make their video content even better on YouTube as they roll out soon.
Start creating or streaming video content now on youtube.com
The Dyson OnTracTM takes the field for the 2024/2025 Italian football season as a new ‘Rossoneri’ team-mate son into the audio world.
Jake Dyson, Chief Engineer, Dyson, said: “Dyson has bold ambitions to disrupt the audio industry – as demonstrated by the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones, unveiled this summer. These headphones deliver exceptional sound quality through a high-performance design, under-
applications of AI models. “Alibaba Cloud is investing, with unprecedented intensity, in the research and development of AI technology and the building of its global infrastructure. We aim to establish an AI infrastructure of the future to serve our global customers and unlock their business potential,” said Eddie Wu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Cloud Intelligence.
100 Open-sourced Models Unveiled
The newly released open-source Qwen 2.5 models, ranging from 0.5 to 72 billion parameters in size, feature enhanced knowledge and stronger capabilities in math and coding and are able to support over 29 languages,
pinned by decades of aero-acoustics research. And with advanced noise cancellation, they help you stay focused—even amid the roar of the San Siro on match day. To celebrate this launch, we are proud to collaborate with AC Milan. The club embodies the same passion, precision, and dedication to performance that drives
Dyson. We are thrilled to collaborate with such an iconic team.”
Dyson OnTrac TM over-ear headphones are the result of over 30 years of Dyson aeroacoustics expertise, offering up up to 55 hours of immersive listening with cutting-edge noise cancellation , exceptional sound quality and all-day comfort thanks to unique materials, design and customization.
Maikel Oettle, AC Milan Chief Commercial Officer, stated: “We are thrilled to announce this collaboration between AC Milan and Dyson, a brand that shares our commitment to excellence and performance. Dyson is not just a symbol of cutting-edge technology but also represents a constant commitment to quality and innovation, velues that perfectly align with our philosophy. Together, we aim to push beyond the limits of what we can achieve on and off the pitch.”
RB driver said: “Over the years we’ve seen fashion brands join forces with F1 teams and drivers, especially when it comes to outfits, but never have we seen any of them take this step in full immersing themselves on track too. We’re really raising the stakes here and paving the way, showcasing that there’s so much more that can be done for brands to explore. I think we’re definitely going to open the eyes of these fashion houses and see more fashion-inspired liveries come to life.” Yuki Tsunoda, Visa Cash App RB driver said: “Fashion is one of my passion points, so to see our team collaborating in such a unique way, beyond our team kit and our daily HUGO outfits is super cool, especially since no one else has ever done it before. Doing something like this is a real reflection of our identity and creativity; at VCARB, we’re looking to speak to fans from all industries: art, music, fashion, so this is a real step towards everything we’re striving to do as a team.”
catering to a wide array of AI applications both at the edge or in the cloud across various sectors from automobile, gaming to science research.
The Qwen model series, Alibaba Cloud’s portfolio of proprietary large language models, has achieved remarkable traction since its debut in April 2023. To date, the Qwen models have surpassed 40 million downloads across platforms such as Hugging Face and ModelScope, an open-source community initiative by Alibaba. Furthermore, these models have inspired the creation of over 50,000 models on Hugging Face.
Creators will be able to use the new tools and make their video content even better on YouTube as they roll out soon.
The dynamic denim design pays homage to HUGO’s iconic style.
Jingren Zhou, Chief Technology Officer of Alibaba Cloud Intelligence
SHOWBIZ
‘Maka’ lead star finds groove in acting and singing
and rising young actress
Zaphanie is stepping into the lead role in Maka, GMA’s latest youth-oriented series that blends
Manila Standard Entertainment, the discussed her growing passion for acting and the support she has received in this new endeavor.
“I’ve learned to love acting,” Zaphanie said. “It used to scare me because I’m really shy. But after my experiences in showbiz and encouragement from trusted friends, I’ve become more
While she continues to prioritize her music, Zaphanie noted that acting has gained
“With MAKA, I can do both,” she said.” After all the experiences I’ve had in showbiz, including the encouragement I receive from people I value the most, my confidence has grown, along with my passion for art in general.”
“With singing, acting is still present. Not every song resonates with me, but since it’s an art form, I
guess it’s always been in my heart. And it has fired up even more since I started acting,” Zephanie added.
The singer and actress expressed appreciation for the trust placed in her and her co-actors by GMA Public Affairs.
“There’s some pressure, but we’re thankful for the confidence they have in us,” she said. “I feel lucky to have support from many people.”
Zephanie believes the series will resonate with viewers of all ages.
“They can really relate to it,” she stated, noting that even the cast finds similarities with their characters. “We all have dreams, but we also face struggles. That’s what MAKA is about—overcoming those challenges.”
The teen drama features a cast of Gen Z actors including Ashley Sarmiento and Marco Masa, along with Sparkle teen talents Olive May, John Clifford, Dylan Menor, Chanty Videla from the K-pop group Lapillus, Sean Lucas, and May Ann Basa, also known as “Bangus Girl.” Set in Douglas MacArthur High School for the Arts, the story follows Sir V, played by Romnick Sarmenta an accomplished but infamous artist who returns to his hometown and reluctantly takes a teaching position. Through his role as a mentor, he learns valuable lessons from his students.
The cast also includes Tina Paner, Jojo Alejar, Sharmaine Arnaiz, and Maricar De Mesa, with Carmen Soriano rounding out the ensemble.
Directed by Rod Marmol Maka aims to continue GMA’s tradition of youth-oriented programming that focuses on relatable themes with modern storytelling.
Maka premieres today at 4:45 p.m. on GMA and via Kapuso Stream, with global viewers able to watch on GMA Pinoy TV.
By Angelica Villanueva
ACTOR
FANS around the world are celebrating Batman Day 2024 today, Sept. 21, to honor one of the most enduring characters in popular culture. Since his debut in 1939’s Detective Comics #27, Batman has inspired generations with his determination, intelligence, and technical prowess, distinguishing him as a hero without superpowers.
To mark this occasion, DC and Warner Bros. Discovery have organized a range of content and activities designed to engage fans. Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong has collaborated with various licensees to commemorate Batman’s 85th anniversary. Products such as figurines, apparel, and food and beverage items will be available. In the Philippines, fans can visit a Batman-themed activation at SM City Santa Rosa, which runs until Sept. 30. A limited-edition Batman figurine and credit card wallets will be available through Royal Selangor, featuring intricate designs of Batman and The Joker. These items can be found at Royal Selangor outlets worldwide and in its online store. Additional brand collaborations across the region include partnerships with companies like Petrol and Comic Central in the Philippines, 425 Degree and Pena House in Thailand, and various brands in Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Fans can also revisit popular Batman
and series on Batman Day
Batman
The Batman, Suicide Squad ISEKAI, and Batwheels, all available for streaming on HBO GO.
Actor Joshua Garcia in the recording booth for the Filipino dub of ‘Inside Out 2’
The cast of teen drama ‘MAKA’
Sparkle teen talents John Clifford (left) and Olive May join the ‘MAKA’ cast as JC Serrano and Livvy Ilagan
Sean Lucas (left) and K-pop girl group Lapillus’ Chanty Videla play Sean Angeles and Chanty Villanueva in the show
on the lead role in ‘MAKA’ as Zeph Molina
Dylan Menor (left) and Zephanie take on the lead roles in the show
Very Wang Nickie Wang
WHEN investing in a luxurious home, the next step is selecting furniture that complements its elegance. Modern yet timeless pieces are essential – furniture that endures and enhances the living experience.
Goldwin Sison, president and CEO of Moda Interni, emphasizes that luxury furniture transcends price.
“The materials used are key; in my opinion, price is just a reflection of quality. For instance, high-quality leather will naturally command a higher price,” Sison told Manila Standard Life in an interview on Thursday.
Recently opened in Quezon City, Moda Interni showcases modern and contemporary luxury living tailored to local tastes. The showroom features an exquisite selection of fine furniture, kitchens, and modular cabinetry designed to transform homes into “artistic expressions.”
Curated under Sison’s leadership, the collection includes custom pieces from renowned Italian brands such as Turri, Pedini, Opera Contemporary, and LAGO. Each brand embodies timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship, catering to the discerning Filipino luxury consumer.
as the heart of the home. Opera Contemporary, part of the esteemed Angelo Capellini family, merges modern aesthetics with classic charm, drawing on a woodworking legacy that dates back to 1886. Turri, with roots in craftsmanship since 1925, offers versatile furniture pieces that
escape
appeal to those seeking personalization. The brand collaborates annually with top designers, producing collections that blend innovation with artistic flair.
New to the collection is LAGO, founded in 1976, known for its innovative materials and distinctive designs. Their use of X-Glass creates the illusion of floating furniture, making their offerings truly unique.
In essence, Moda Interni is not just about selling furniture; it aims to create a sanctuary where individuals can express their personalities through their living spaces.
“We wanted to break the mold in the luxury furniture market,” Sison said.
“Moda Interni is about finding the perfect pieces to elevate living experiences, both aesthetically and functionally.”
“Regarding trends, while fabric and leather remain timeless materials, we do keep an eye on market trends in design. However, our furniture pieces are crafted to endure and stay relevant across generations,” Sison pointed out.
To experience Moda Interni’s stunning collection of furniture, kitchens, and modular cabinetries, let their expert team assist you in elevating your living space to a new level of artistry and sophistication.
Contact sales@modainterni.ph, or call +639177256456 to schedule an appointment.
Moda Interni distinguishes itself by providing exceptional aftersales service, ensuring customers receive support long after their purchase. Their expert team assists in creating dream living spaces, from maintenance advice to selecting complementary pieces.
This commitment reflects Sison’s belief that quality furniture should evolve with its owners, enriching their living experiences.
“Our goal is to be a leader in luxury living, offering exceptional products alongside unparalleled service,” he stated.
Pedini is celebrated for its luxurious and functional kitchen designs, particularly its iconic curved kitchen pieces that redefine dining areas
“Take Turri, for example—it will celebrate a century of legacy next year. Pedini started in 1957, and Opera Contemporary dates back to the 18th hundreds. Just think of the extensive research and development that has taken place over all those years; it’s truly mind-blowing,” Sison said.
S N A P S H O T
IN TODAY’S digital landscape, the advantages of a reliable internet connection are clear— from remote work convenience to staying connected with loved ones and enjoying various entertainment options at home.
With around 69 million Filipinos online for an average of nine hours daily, many are now prioritizing their budgets amid rising living costs.
To meet these digital needs, PLDT Home has launched its Fiber Unli All plan, which offers unlimited internet with speeds up to twice as fast, along with unlimited mobile and landline calls, and unlimited entertainment through Cignal TV. This plan provides families with greater value for their investment.
1. Unli mobile calls
The Fiber Unli All Plans come with an enhanced unlimited mobile calls feature, which lets the whole family enjoy free calls and texts from mobile to mobile, unlimited calls from mobile to landline, landline to landline, and landline to mobile. To enjoy this feature, customers can register five Smart or TNT numbers.
2. Unli internet with faster speeds
The Fiber Unli All plan 1399 now comes with speeds of up to 100 Mbps speeds, which is twice as fast as the previous plan at 50 Mbps. Your whole family can enjoy playing games or watching online videos on multiple devices seamlessly. Downloading and uploading heavy files from the cloud can be done in a snap at double the speed!
3. Minimize spending on a plan
nesters. Conversely, the same number of people may have bigger demands if they’re gamers or working from home, and lesser demand if they’re at the office all day. Solo nesters may opt for the Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 while families with heavy bandwidth requirement may choose Fiber Unli All Plan 1799, ensuring that they get
Moda Interni president and CEO Goldwin Sison with the custom Pedini kitchen
The luxury furniture brand offers high quality furniture that enhances the living experience of individuals
Moda Interni’s Opera Contemporary Cosmo sofa set and Cyrano marble table
A versatile and artistic modular sofa set up from Turri