Manila Standard - 2019 February 5 - Tuesday

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VOL. XXXII • NO. 355 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019 • www.manilastandard.net • mst.daydesk@gmail.com

THEY’RE SURRENDERING. Ten rebels of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters under Karialan faction headed by Kumander Gani Saligan (wearing sun glasses), 4th Brigade Commander of the BIFF 2nd Division, with his 10 followers surrender on Sunday to the 601st Infantry Brigade in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao under Division Commander Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, with Brig. Gen. Diosdado Carreon at the Officers Club House in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao. A day earlier, the primary suspect, identified as Kammah Pae (inset), in the deadly Jolo, Sulu church bombing yielded to authorities, according to PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde. Mark Navales and UNTV News

10 Bangsamoro rebels surrender amid airstrikes TEN surrendering members of the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters provided the Army information that enabled the government to launch an airstrike at the terrorist camp in the marshlands of Maguindanao, military officials said Sunday.

Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, said the surrendering fighters all belonged to the group of Gani Saligan, a sub-commander of the BIFF Karialan faction operating in the area.

Two Air Force planes bombed Sitio Tatak, Barangay Tugal, Sultan sa Barongis, Maguindanao, destroying foxholes and running trenches of the terrorist group Saturday morning.

Brig. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, commander of the 601st Infantry Brigade, said the 10 BIFF fighters surrendered for three reasons.

“These are their desire to be with their families and children, and even grandchildren, the continued and relentless military pursuit operations against them, and the benefits of returning to the fold of the law as experienced by their other comrades who yielded earlier,” he said.

Prime suspect in Jolo blast, 4 others give up

By Francisco Tuyay

A

HENCHMAN of Abu Sayyaf leader Hatib Sawadjaan, along with four followers, all considered conspirators to the deadly bombing of a Catholic church in Jolo that was carried out by two Indonesian suicide bombers, have surrendered, police said Monday.

Philippine National Police chief Oscar Indonesian jihadist bombers surrendered Albayalde said Kammah Pae, alias Ka- to the Army’s 35th Infantry Battalion on mah, tagged as the principal cohort of Saturday and was handed over to the po-

lice Sunday.

Shortly after Kammah’s surrender, four of his followers also turned themselves in to the local police in Sulu Sunday.

Albayalde identified them as Albaji Kisae, alias Awag, Rajan Bakil Gadjali, alias Radjan; Kaisar Bakil Gadjali, alias Isal; said to be bomb-makers and Salit Alih, alias Papong.

Minutes after two bombs went off inside and outside of Mt. Carmel Cathedral, the military pointed to Kammah’s involvement.

He said Kammah surrendered under the

Oil firms cut pump prices: P0.60/liter

Next page

By Alena Mae S. Flores

BOL plebiscite: Eyes on Lanao, North Cotabato COTABATO CITY―The Commission on Elections and its deputized military and police security forces in North Cotabato are all set for the conduct of the second plebiscite on the Bangsamoro Organic Law in 67 villages of the province today.

The villages are situated in seven towns―Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pigcawayan, Pikit, and Tulunan―of North Cotabato’s 17 municipalities.

“We are ready for the plebiscite, security plans are in place,” lawyer Jay Gerada, North Cotabato election supervisor,

said on Monday.

Gerada said he continues to meet with military, police, and teachers who will be serving as plebiscite committee (plebcom) members to iron out whatever issues that may arise on the balloting.

Next page

Brady wins 6th Super Bowl SPORTS A7

pressure of a massive manhunt. He added that his companions said it was Kammah who escorted the Indonesian couple to the church.

Soldiers and police found explosives in Kammah’s house.

The Ajang-Ajang group to which Kammah belongs is composed mainly of orphaned children of ASG bandits.

Reports said Kammah was an adjutant of Sawadjaan, who grew up in the terrorist mainstream, tapped as an errand boy Next page during his teenage years.

OIL companies Unioil Philippines and PTT Philippines followed the move of other local oil players and will cut prices by as much as P0.60 per liter effective Tuesday morning.

“PTT Philippines to implement the following price rollbacks effective 6a.m.

Tuesday February 5, 2019: gasoline by P0.60 per liter and diesel by P0.35 per liter,” the company said in its advisory.

The oil firms also cut the price of kerosene by P0.20 per liter. The latest rollback ended four consecutive weeks of oil price increases.

Other oil companies such as Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp., Seaoil Philippines, Eastern Petroleum Philippines, and Phoenix Petroleum Philippines have also implemented the price cuts.

Duterte: Nurture values for peace

By Nat Mariano PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Monday urged the Filipinos and Chinese in the Philippines to cultivate values that will usher peace and understanding between Next page them.

Next page

SM SUPERMALLS CELEBRATE THE LUNAR NEW YEAR WITH VARIOUS ACTIVITIES.

SM Aura Premier features a colorful display of Lanterns at the Skypark while the Mall of Asia (inset) focuses on familyoriented attractions and festivities such as lion and dragon dances and cultural performances.

Sino trader nabbed over P6.4-b shabu

By Rio N. Araja BUSINESSMAN Kenneth Dong, who is accused of illegal drug importation related to the P6.4-billion shabu shipment smuggled from China that slipped through Customs in 2017, has been arrested.

Deputy director Ferdinand Lavin of the National Bureau of Investigation confirmed Monday that agents of their Anti-Organized and Transnational Crime Division have detained Dong, but did not

provide details.

Dong was ordered arrested last year along with Customs broker Mark Ruben Taguba II and seven other accused. The case is pending before Judge Rainelda Estacio-Montesa of the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 46.

This developed as the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency said Monday the P1.9 billion worth of shabu seized in a warehouse in Tanza, Cavite on Sunday could have entered the country through “shipside smuggling.”

Next page

Solons wary: Poll bets ‘open targets’

By Maricel V. Cruz LAWMAKERS complained Monday that their security details were being pulled out just as the threats against their lives increased due to the coming elections.

In a hearing conducted by the House committee on public order and safety, the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Commission on Elections were asked to exempt security personnel from the ban on the carrying of firearms during the election period.

“Now is election season. Politicians, candidates are open targets,” said Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel.

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News

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Palace scoffs at Congress’ inaction

By Nat Mariano, Maricel V. Cruz and Macon Ramos-Araneta

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RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte is dismayed over the lawmakers’ “inaction” on the passage of the 2019 national budget, Malacañang said Monday.

es if we have reenacted budget. They know that,” Panelo said.

“In other words, we are still hopeful that it will pass. They said so. Remember they said that they will pass it. And, I watched Congressman [Rolando] Andaya saying that they are determined to pass the general appropriations bill,” he added.

Congress is set to hold its last plenary session on Wednesday, Feb. 6 as lawmakers will go on break from Feb. 9 to May 19 for the midterm elections.

Last week, the Palace rejected a proposal of Senate President Vicente Sotto III that a reenacted budget be used over his frustration over allegations of pork barrel and other irregularities in the budget process.

Malacañang has maintained that a reenacted budget will do more harm than good.

“It is still three days before they ad-

journ the session. Let’s see. Let’s just wait,” he said. “Hope springs eternal.

We’ll hope for the best.”

The remaining sessions days after that May 2019 elections are on May 20 to June 7.

The Palace statements came as Senator Loren Legarda, chairperson of the Senate committee on finance, announce a breakthrough in the budget impasse.

She described his meeting with her counterpart in the House of Representatives, Camarines Sur Rep. Rolando Andaya as “more congenial and open.”

At the start of the session, Minority Leader Franklin Drilon asked Legarda for an update on the bicameral conference committee on budget.

Legarda said the committee has agreed to approve and ratify the 2019 national budget.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea made the remark after the Palace expressed its confidence that Congress will ratify the General Appropriations Act even with only three days left before the legislative branch goes on recess.

“He [the President] is aware. And I am sure he is dismayed at the legislators’ inaction, which will delay his infrastructure projects,” Medialdea told Palace reporters in a text message. “[But] we are still hopeful that the legislators will perform their constitutional duties,” he added.

Medialdea said the President and his economic managers have done their part by submitting the proposed 2019 national budget a month before the deadline.

“The ball is in the hands of the legislators,” he said.

In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said he “hopes for the best” that Congress will pass the 2019 national budget before it goes on recess.

“We eagerly await the passage of the general appropriations bill. They know that it will bring adverse consequenc-

Solons...

House rules on SALN unconstitutional?

“Candidates are being killed just like ordinary chickens, then here you come, PNP and Comelec, making it hard for us candidates to [be provided with] security personnel.”

In other developments related to political killings: • In the Senate, the PNP rejected an assertion by senatorial candidate Glenn Chong that his aide Richard Santillan was kidnapped, tortured and killed on Dec. 10 in an armed encounter in Cainta, Rizal, saying the armed encounter was part of a legitimate police operation.

Testifying before Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs chaired

by Senator Panfilo Lacson, Supt. Joseph Arguelles of Police Regional Office 4-A denied Chong’s allegations.

• The Commission on Elections said Monday it will not declare Quezon City an election hot spot despite the killing of Barangay Bagong Silangan chairman Crisell “Beng” Beltran and her driver Melchor Salita.

In a News to Go television interview on GMA-7, Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said Quezon City could only be placed under an area of concern if it had met the requirements needed for it.

Also, Beltran’s family appealed to President Rodrigo Duterte for help bring justice to the slain official. The family aired its appeal also on News To Go. He said there was still a need for a recommendation from the local Comelec officials and the Philippine National Police before the Comelec could take an appropriate action.

Beltran was on board her Ford Everest van being driven by Salita when six armed men shot them to death on Jan. 31 at around 11:33 a.m. along J.P. Rizal Street in Barangay Bagong Silangan. At least four people were hurt during the incident. With Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja

By Nat Mariano

From A1

Sino trader...

From A1

Director general Aaron Aquino said the confiscated drugs were believed to have come from Southeast Asia, adding the packages containing the illegal drugs could have been dropped from large ships and then picked up by smaller vessels.

PDEA agents killed two Chinese nationals in a drug raid Sunday afternoon and seized 274 kilos of suspected shabu worth P1.9 billion.

Three months after the massive drug shipment was discovered in Valenzuela City, Dong was arrested in August 2017 for allegedly raping a businesswoman the year before.

He was released from detention in November 2017 after the complainant did not pursue charges, leading a Parañaque judge to dismiss the case.

Meanwhile, Aquino said the drugs in Cavite came from the Golden Triangle syndicate in the borders of Laos, Thailand and Myanmar.

“We suspect these drugs were being manufactured in Region 1 and were being transported to Cavite. From Cavite, the proximity of it to Metro Manila is just near... that could easily be distributed,” Aquino said.

Duterte:...

From A1

In his message to celebrate the Lunar New Year, Duterte said the “friendship and cooperation” between Manila and Beijing had allowed the Philippines to grow and harmonize two diverse cultures.

“The friendship and cooperation forged between the Philippines and China have not only led to greater prosperity and economic growth for both our nations, but also [given] rise to a unique culture that is nurtured by har-

THE strict rules adopted by the House of Representatives on the release of the Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth of government officials may violate the Constitution, the Palace said Monday.

Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the Palace does not involve itself in the affairs of Congress, but a House resolution requiring plenary approval for access to the lawmakers’ SALNs might transgress the transparency and accountability of public officers and hinder the right of the public to information.

“Such a procedure may be perceived as a transgression of Article XI of the Constitution requiring any public official to submit a SALN,” Panelo said in

a statement.

Panelo made his statement even as House Majority Leader Fredenil Castro claimed Monday that access to the SALNs of lawmakers was actually made “easier” by the new restrictions the chamber adopted.

Castro said requesting parties no longer had to go to court in case their SALN request was denied.

“It’s easier now because if you are denied, you can go to plenary by way of appeal,” he told ANC’s “Early Edition.”

“You can go directly and request in addition to what is automatically published.”

Panelo said Republic Act 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees required that “the said document readily available to the public.”

According to Section 8 of RA 6713, the public has the “right to know” the assets, liabilities, net worth and financial and business interests of public officials and employees, including their spouses and unmarried children under 18 years old.

Panelo, a lawyer, said “any stringent measure,” which burdens the people in obtaining public information, “may not be consistent with transparency and accountability of public officials.”

On Wednesday, the House seemingly tightened the procedures and prescribed stricter rules to obtain the lawmakers’ wealth declarations.

Under the adopted House Resolution 2467, a plenary approval is required for the public to have an access to the lawmakers’ SALNs.

10 Bangsamoro...

AGAINST DISCRIMINATION. Senior high school students of Taguig City National

High School wear the hijab (head covering) for a day to dramatize their sentiment against discrimination and celebrate diversity as part of World Hijab Day, an annual global event that urges citizens of all faiths to try the clothing in solidarity with Muslim women and girls.

Manny Palmero

His remains, along with those of 4 other slain soldiers were brought to the Western Mindanao Command on Sunday night for full military honors, the broadcast network reported. PNA

A case for multiple murder and multiple frustrated murder will be filed against the five suspects before the provincial prosecutor office of Sulu.

Albayalde said 14 other suspects remained at large, including the mastermind Sawadjaan. Among them were Makrim Habbisi, alias Makrim, Barak Ingug, alias Barak Abdulgani, Usman Aka Ubin, a certain Arab Puti and nine John Does.

The plan was hatched on Jan. 8 when Muksin and Usman tried to assemble an IED in Barangay Latih.

Four days later, Sawadjaan met Usman and Barak in Barangay Bastiong, Partikul, and provided them with funds for the bombing mission.

On Jan. 21, an Indonesian couple holed out in Lampinging Island for few days after arriving in the country, and

sailed to Jolo Island on Jan. 24.

The couple was met by Kammah’s group—Papong, Awag and Radjan at a gasoline station and boarded Awag’s jeepney along with five boys who later disembarked along the way.

Upon reaching Sitio Usaw, Barangay Langhub, Patikul, near the house of Usman, Kammah together with Barak, Makrim and Usman joined the couple and proceeded to Sitio Bastiong, Barangay Langub, Patikul.

Upon their arrival, Kamah and Barak escorted the couple towards a forested portion of Sitio Bastiong where they met Sawadjaan and eventually mapped out the plan for the bombing. The bomb plot was attended by Barak, Kammah, Awag, Usman, Makrim, Isal, Radjan and Papong.

On the eve of the bomb attack, the couple, each toting black trolley bags were escorted to Barangay Latih by Usman, Barak and nine other unidentified armed men. The couple then boarded Awag’s jeepney en route for Jolo, arriv-

ing there at at about 5:10 p.m.

The couple, after their arrival in Jolo, disembarked in front of Suleco Building and went to undisclosed place in the island until a powerful bomb made of GI sheets, serving it as casing, containing ammonium nitrate-fuel, the primary explosive charge, went off inside Mt. Carmel and in front of the Church at about 8:30 a.m. Sunday.

At present, the identities of the Indonesian couple has not been established, and the government has sought the help of the Indonesian government to identify them.

Albayalde said they are now investigating where the ASG is getting their funds to further their terror acts.

“They affiliate themselves to ISIS so that ISIS will funnel funds to them,” he said.

He said in lieu of foreign funding, ASG leader Sawadjaan is locally sourcing its funds through extortion, kidnapping and illegal drugs, and the revenues from the sacking of Marawi City.

mony amid diversity,” Duterte said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Metro Manila Development Authority and the Manila City government will enforce this afternoon a Stop-and-Go traffic scheme in the Binondo area in connection with the celebration of Chinese New Year.

No roads will be closed during the occasion but the Stop-and-Go scheme will be observed along the route of the New Year parade starting at 1 p.m.

The parade will start from Jaboneros/ Madrid, turn left to Santo Cristo, right to Lavezares (Millennium Bridge), left

to Juan Luna, right to La Chambre, left to La Chambre Hotel, left to Santa Elena, left to Juan Luna, straight to Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz, left to Ongpin, left to Teodora Alonzo, left to Soler and left to Reina Regente The procession will last up to three hours.

Duterte expressed optimism that 2019 will bring “hope, inspiration and more achievements for the Chinese-Filipino community and the entire nation.”

“Together, let us cultivate the values and ideals that fuel our strong resolve to usher in a period of greater peace

and understanding as we rise above the challenges ahead,” Duterte said.

Before 2018 ended, Duterte deepened the Philippines’ “enduring relations” through a “positive engagement” with China as Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the country for a five-day state visit in November.

As they signed at least 30 bilateral agreements, Duterte said they also forged a “new legacy of friendship and cooperation,” expressing hope that Philippine-China ties will sustain a “positive momentum” in the years to come. With Joel E. Zurbano

From A1

THE Commission on Elections said Monday the appearance of candidates appearing as guests in television variety shows and non-news programs during the campaign period will be counted as broadcast campaign time.

Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said each candidate was allotted 120 minutes per television station and 180 minutes per radio station. He warned that those violating this rule would face disqualification charges.

Candidates for local posts are allowed 60 to 90 minutes per station.

Movies featuring the lives of candidates are banned from screening beginning Feb. 9, and the malls violating this rule could be charged, the Comelec said.

“The tendency is to consider their appearances on variety shows as broadcast advertising. It would be unfair for the candidates who would not be invited to appear on TV variety shows,” Jimenez said.

The Comelec says several senatorial candidates have been appearing as guests on TV variety shows.

“However, if it is a news-based talk show, it would not be counted as campaign time. Variety shows are a completely different thing.”

The election laws only allow a candidate for senator to spend P10 per voter.

A candidate for party-list representative, on the other hand, may spend P3 per voter. Political parties, on the other hand, may spend P5 per voter.

The campaign period for national candidates starts on Feb. 12 and ends on May 11. The elections will be held on May 13.

From A1

Also on Monday, ABS-CBN reported that Staff Sgt. Jerry Lubiano, who was wounded twice during the 2017 Marawi siege, was among the soldiers killed in fighting with the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu.

Prime suspect...

By Vito Barcelo

BOL plebiscite:...

From A1

Among those who surrendered were bomb experts trained by Malaysian bomb-maker Zulkifli bin Hir alias “Marwan.”

Marwan died during a covert police raid in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Jan. 25, 2015, in which 44 police commandoes died.

Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu said the children and relatives of the surrendering BIFF members may be qualified for a scholarship program the government is offering for them.

“Even former BIFF fighters who wish to study will be given priority,” he said.

Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana acknowledged that US troops were assisting the Philippine Army in its anti-terrorist operations in Mindanao, including airlifting soldiers wounded in fighting against the Abu Sayyaf Group in Patikul, Sulu.

The US also provided intelligence on possible terrorist threats, Lorenzana said.

“They have been helping us track these terrorists even before the bombing,” Lorenzana said, referring to the Jan. 27 bomb attack on a Catholic church that killed 22 people in Jolo, Sulu.

‘Guesting on TV counts as air campaign time’

“What we are waiting for are the official ballots, once it arrives our preparation is complete,” he said.

Supt. Bernard Tayong, speaking for the police in North Cotabato, said augmentation police forces have arrived in the province and have been deployed in the seven towns to help maintain law and order.

“We have augmentation forces from the Police Regional Office-ARMM [Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao] and PRO-12,” Tayong said.

He said police personnel are ready to serve as plebcom members if the teachers decide not to serve for one reason or another.

The Comelec said voters in the 67 villages will choose inclusion or exclusion from the expanded Bangsamoro ARMM setup, while voters in the mother towns are asked if they allow these villages to join the expanded autonomy.

The plebiscite will be held in Aleosan (four villages out of 19 barangays), Carmen (seven out of 28), Kabacan (seven of 24), Midsayap (13 of 57), Pigcawayan (12 of 40), Pikit (23 of 42), and one in Tulunan.

On the same day, the voters in the six towns of Balo-i, Munai, Nunungan, Pantar, Tagoloan, and Tangkal, in Lanao del Norte will be asked if they wish to join the new political entity by approving or rejecting the BOL. Voters in other Lanao del Norte towns, excluding Iligan City, will also vote whether to allow these six towns to join BOL or not.

The BOL, the enabling law for the expansion of ARMM, has been ratified in the region’s core territory. The scheduled plebiscite on Wednesday would determine the final composition of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. PNA

Oil firms...

From A1

Year-to-date adjustments stand at a net increase of P0.60 per liter for gasoline, P0.85 per liter for kerosene and P1.75 per liter for diesel.

Concerns of a global economic slowdown affected world oil prices, as a widespread economic slowdown may dent growth in demand for fuel.

Worries over surging American fuel stocks and global economic woes also weighed on sentiment.

The ongoing US-China trade dispute and broader gloom over world economic growth also put a check on prices.

Last Jan. 29, most of the oil companies implemented a price increase of P0.20 per liter for gasoline, P0.55 per liter for diesel, and P0.40 per liter for kerosene.

News

A3

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

SGMA new bill seeks shark conservation in PH SPEAKER Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has pushed for the enactment of a bill regulating the catching, sale, purchase, possession, transportation, importation, and exportation of all sharks, rays, and chimaeras in the country.

Arroyo’s HB 8926 which is expected to have passed on third and final reading before Congress adjourns on Wednesday, aims to address the extinction of marine wildlife and achieve a balance between human needs and the integrity of the Philippine marine ecosystem. It shall provide for the conservation of sharks, and related classes, as well as the threats to their existence.

The bill was passed on second reading last week.

“Sharks are typically depicted as apex predators that have significant top-down effects on food webs. They help keep prey populations healthy by feeding on weak, sick, or old fishes, and prevent overgrazing of critical marine habitats,” Arroyo said.

Arroyo added that “the removal of sharks from an ecosystem has the potential to create significant changes to predator-prey interactions, affecting the whole system. Aside from ecological benefits, sharks and rays have also been proven to boost local economies through sustainable tourism activities, and through fisheries in many developing countries.” Maricel V. Cruz

PAINTED PALMS. Members of Akbayan youth show their painted palms as a sign of protest against the lowering of the minimum age of criminal responsibility.

Customs exceeds collection target in January 2019 THE Bureau of Customs surpassed its collection target in January 2019 posting a total of P48.153 billion with a surplus of 2.527 or 5.5% increase above its P45.626 billion goal.

The bureau maintains the growth momentum seen since last year, on the back of continued process improvements being implemented by Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero such as tighter watch over imports and import values of goods.

Based on preliminary report of the Bureau of Treasury, revenues generated by the BOC in January were derived mostly from cash collection, which refers to duties, taxes and fees collected from goods that entered through the customs ports nationwide. Vito Barcelo

NBI urged to stop new ‘ponzi’ group in Mindanao A PARTY-LIST lawmaker on Monday disclosed that the new group operating a “ponzi scheme” in Mindanao has been “very active” recruiting would-be investors especially in General Santos City, Davao City, Bislig and in most areas in Central and Southern Mindanao despite a warning issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission on the existence of such group.

Party-list Rep. Jericho Nograles of Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta urged the National Bureau of Investigation to immediately step up efforts to arrest and neutralize the operation of a group called KAPA Community Ministry International, Inc., which is involved in large-scale investment fraud similar to the notorious Aman Futures Group that victimized nearly 12,000 people also in Mindanao and ran away with P12 billion in cash.

Unlike Aman Futures that only offered high yielding interest income, KAPA also poses as a religious group with a huge number of followers to project stability and credibility, Nograles said.

Nograles said that SEC issued an advisory October last year, warning the public of KAPA’s illegal operation but no law enforcement operation was since conducted to stop it from victimizing more victims. Maricel V. Cruz

Manny Palmero

OP now has jurisdiction over ‘reclamation body’

By Nat Mariano and Rey E. Requejo

P

RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has transferred the Philippine Reclamation Authority under his control and supervision to make the agency “more effective,” the Palace said on Monday.

In Executive Order No. 74, Duterte moved the PRA to the Office of the President, delegating the PRA Governing Board the power of the President to approve reclamation projects and other purposes, aiming to rationalize operations for sustainable resource development.

The PRA used to approve reclamation projects on behalf of the chief executive, but Duterte’s new directive repealed the two previous executive orders that placed the PRA under the control of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the National Economic and Development Authority.

“The PRA shall be under the control and supervision of the OP, while the power of the President to approve all reclamation projects shall be delegated to the PRA Governing Board,” the EO

read.

“Such delegation, however, shall not be construed as diminishing the President’s authority to modify, amend, or nullify the action of the PRA Governing Board,” it added.

According to the EO, there is a need to “rationalize the approval process for reclamation projects towards an economically and environmentally sustainable resource development.”

The order also underscored the government’s policy “to increase competitiveness, promote ease of doing business, and rationalize and streamline functions of agencies to facilitate efficient delivery of government services.”

In order to integrate, direct, and coordinate all reclamation projects for and on behalf of the State, the PRA shall seek the advisory opinions of the NEDA,

DENR, and the Department of Finance.

The PRA must seek the opinion of the NEDA on consistency of the project with national and regional development planning and programming, and established national priorities of the government; the DENR on the environmental sustainability of the project and compliance with environmental laws; and, Department of Finance on the economic and fiscal viability of the project.

The order also applies to all reclamation projects, including those initiated by local government units and other government entities allowed under existing laws to reclaim land, “for which there are no contracts/agreements yet executed between the government entity concerned and a private sector proponent” before the effectivity of the said order.

“No reclamation project shall be approved by the PRA without the required Area Clearance and Environmental Compliance Certificate to be issued by the DENR. The DENR shall ensure transparency and inclusivity in the conduct of the Environmental Impact Assessment which shall include public disclosure and multi-stakeholder engagement,” the document read.

SC set to rule on martial law extension in Mindanao

By Rey E. Requejo THE Supreme Court will soon decide on the petitions assailing the constitutionality of the third extension of martial law declaration in Mindanao.

This came after petitioners challenging the extension of Proclamation No. 216 for another year of until December 2019 and the government, through the Office of the Solicitor General, have submitted their respective memorandum to the SC on Monday following the one-day oral arguments on the case last Jan. 29.

With the submission of all arguments by parties, the Court has submitted the case for decision.

An SC insider revealed that the justices will include the case in their session next Tuesday and might be able to vote and decide on it by then.

In their memorandum, petitioners led

by Albay 1st district Rep. Edcel Lagman reiterated their claim that there was no factual basis to justify the extension of martial law in Mindanao as required in the 1987 Constitution.

They argued that the attacks by terror

groups and violent incidents that took place in Mindanao last year, including four bombings cited in the report of the Armed Forces, were acts of terrorism and not rebellion as required by law in declaration of martial law.

“The following acts of terrorism and lawless violence mentioned in the letter dated 06 December 2018 of the President do not per se evince the existence of rebellion and the President failed to connect or relate said acts to rebellion or furtherance of rebellion,” the petitioners said.

Du30 takes care of himself—Palace PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte is “conscientious” of his health, Malacañang assured anew following rumors on the chief executive’s impending demise.

Rumors on the President’s death resurfaced after he skipped an event in Palo, Leyte on Friday since he was not feeling well.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, however, assured the public that the President remains in good health, stressing that taking a break from work shows how he refuses to strain his body.

“The President is conscientious of his health and he puts a break to his activities if he feels his body is not up to it,” Panelo said in a statement Sunday night.

“In other words, he knows how to take care of himself and does not perform any activity beyond what is necessary or is harmful to his physical being,” he added.

Panelo said the President spent the

weekend resting and reassured the public that they should not feel concerned about his absence in some events.

“We assure our countrymen that PRRD remains in robust health and is just resting in his Davao home for the weekend while preparing for the coming week’s grueling schedule,” he said.

Panelo slammed the death hoax, describing it as “fake news” peddled by critics and detractors who cannot accept that the President is “unstoppable.”

“When they hear PRRD cancelling a day’s activities, they use it as an excuse to spread the false news that he is either in serious health condition or has passed away,” he said.

Panelo added that critics seem to be unable to accept that the President is “indestructible and apparently immune from serious illness despite his punishing schedule.” PNA

TOBACCO TAX. Tobacco farmers trooped in front of the Senate gate to express their sentiments to the senators on the increase of excise tax in tobacco. Ey Acasio

DBP ‘willing’ to help fund Manila Bay cleanup

By Julito Rada STATE-RUN Development Bank of the Philippines, the eighth-largest lender in terms of assets, said it is willing to provide the necessary financing to all establishments located near Manila Bay in support of the government’s efforts to rehabilitate the area.

DBP president and chief executive officer Cecilia Borromeo said in a statement Monday the bank’s loan programs on environment protection and its experience in bankrolling water treatment and sanitation projects would be beneficial to companies seeking to comply with existing environment rules and regulations.

“DBP is ready to provide the necessary financial and technical assistance to all establishments near or along the coast of Manila Bay to ensure compliance to environmental laws and regulations,” Borromeo said.

“DBP is prepared to do its share in this inter-sectoral initiative to clean up, rehabilitate, and improve the water quality of Manila Bay and its tributaries,” Borromeo said.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources recently spearheaded a massive cleanup of the 2,000-square kilometer Manila Bay, which has degraded over the years due to domestic sewage, toxic industrial effluents and leachate from dumps.

Ombudsman’s indictment cases down by 71% in 2018

By Rio N. Araja THE Office of the Ombudsman’s indictment cases fell by 71 percent in 2018.

Last year, the Ombudsman’s indictment dropped by 71 percent from a record of 2,513 cases in 2017.

The Ombudsman was only able to file 739 cases in 2018, or a difference of 1,774 cases with 178 of them recorded under the first five months of Ombudsman Samuel Martires after his assumption into office on July 26, 2018.

Former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales reported 978 cases filed in the same period from August to September 2017, or an 81 percent drop year-on-year.

Martires said the anti-graft body would conduct an inventory of all cases under fact-finding investigation.

He ordered the dismissal of investigations more than one-year-old without prejudice to its refiling.

The Ombudsman approved some indictments of former and incumbent public officials left behind by Morales.

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Opinion

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

A collision course IN MY column last Thursday called “Abra: Forgotten province,” I was not able to fully describe why Abra where I grew up remains primitive.

The reasons why it is a forgotten province are multi-faceted. First of all, it is land-locked between Ilocos Sur and the Cordilleras. It has no cash crop to speak of. Yes, there are patches of Virginia tobacco planting in some towns, but this is the exception rather than the rule.

The congressmen will have a tough time smearing Diokno’s reputation.

In some instances, rice has to be imported from Cagayan Valley, which has become the rice bowl of the North.

There is not much to see in Abra except some mountains and waterfalls.

This is the reason why my wife and I cannot go back to it anymore. It is more for young backpackers.

But the bigger reason Abra has been forgotten is that the ruling political clans keep fighting each other to the point of killing. Members of the armed forces and the police have to be assigned to the place, because it is always considered an election hot spot.

Politics is an industry in Abra. If you are not in power, you have no income.

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

That is the way it has always been.

After the strongman Don Quintin Paredes ruled Abra, other relatives like the Purruganans got into power, and then the Bersamins, among others.

To a large extent, my boyhood in Abra made me what I am today. My father was a school supervisor who had to travel around the province.

This is the reason I attended many public elementary schools in different towns. There were days I didn’t even have shoes, only hand-made “paluka” or rubber slippers from worn-out tires.

When it rained, which was often, I had to content myself with hand-made “annaka”—a covering of nipa leaves. No raincoats for me then—they were a luxury.

My time in Abra made me strong and resilient, especially during the years of the Japanese Occupation.

Would you believe that sometime in the 1980s, some politicians from Abra went to my residence in Philamlife, Quezon City to relocate to Bangued and try my luck in politics?

I immediately rejected the idea of relocating to Abra. My wife could not bear the thought of my children going to school there, and me battling politipoliti cal clans with their private armies. *** Some members of the House of Representatives appropriations committee have unwittingly steered themselves into a collision course with the Cabinet, possibly with the Palace itself. They have threatened to cite Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno for contempt and even have him arrested.

The congressmen said that Diokno is not inclined to appear before the chamber. Some committee members, notably Camarines Sur Rep. Rolando Andaya Jr., subjected him to intense grilling and even accused him of certain anomalies in the preparation of the 2019 budget.

There are allegations that the Depart-

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Looking for luck

HETHER by true belief, time-honored tradition or plain habit, Filipinos take active part in the celebration of the Chinese New Year. This year is no different.

The celebrations are such that evil spirits and other bearers of bad luck are warded off, inviting only prosperity, longevity, health and good relationships. As the Year of the Pig is ushered in, people talk about whether their own signs would bring luck and happiness—or their opposites.

This year is especially significant for Filipinos because there will be an election in three months and several big projects and campaigns are being implemented in government.

The May elections, as well as the initiatives for peace, the environment, peace and order, and infrastructure all play an important role in determining our progress as a nation.

But while believers resort to certain practices to get rid of ill fortune or invite only positive energies, it is time we started ascribing our sorry situation less to bad luck and more to an inability to break old patterns. For instance, we keep falling for the same trap of electing candidates

for their prominent last names, for their grandiose promises of change, or for the personality that they cultivate for the masses.

As a result, we find ourselves in the same rut, only with greater hatred and wider divisions than ever before.

May this year's celebrations come with an awareness that it is we who determine our own good or bad fortune, and who chart our own destiny as a people. We imagine it is easier to believe otherwise, but in the end we do get the government we deserve, and the living conditions we choose to put up with.

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Seven ways to conquer evil IN MY column last Saturday, I shared my thoughts on the national situation based on a presentation I made in the First Grand Alumni Homecoming of the University of Santo Tomas Seminary. The first part of the talk, which I summarized in my column last Saturday, focused on the reasons—I discussed six—why a Filipino might despair about the country. In the second part of my UST presentation, I shared how we can respond to the national situation. I summarize that in today’s column.

My starting point is the pastoral statement issued by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) last Monday, Jan. 28, entitled “Conquering evil with good.” But concretely, how do we conquer evil with good?

I propose seven ways.

First, we must always speak truth to power, with courage and frankness, but never with anger and not personally. You do not convert anyone by calling him or her names.

The Church should help all of us dial down our rhetoric. An example of this is the approach of the CBCP on the war against drug.

“Like most other Filipinos we had high hopes that the government would truly flex some political will to be able to use the full force of the law in working against this terrible menace. It was when we started hearing of mostly poor people being brutally murdered on mere suspicion of being small-time drug users and peddlers while the big-time smugglers and drug lords went scot-free, that we started wondering about the direction this “drug war” was taking.

As bishops, we have no intention of interfering in the conduct of State affairs. But neither do we intend to abdicate our sacred mandate as shepherds to whom the Lord has entrusted his flock. We have a solemn duty to defend our flock, especially when they are attacked by wolves. We do not fight with arms. We fight only with the truth. Therefore, no amount of intimidation or even threat to our lives will make us give up our prophetic role, especially that of giving voice to the voiceless.”

Second, we must discern as individuals, families, and communities, indeed as people of God, on how to respond effectively to specific challenges like killings in your midst, whether because of drugs or politics or social conflict, corruption, whom to vote for in the 2019 elections, and on reducing the age of criminal liability. On the latter issue, the Bishops are clear on where the Church stands: “There is no way we can call our-

selves a civilized society if we hold children in conflict with the law criminally liable.

Children who get involved in crimes, such as those who are used as runners by adult drug pushers, do not deserve to be treated as criminals; they are victims that need to be rescued.”

Third, we must provide sanctuary to those being targeted and to those who are taking the lead in resisting evil coming from many quarters. I especially praise those in government who do this, for example the trial court judges who have stood up and done the right thing in concrete cases like the Palparan and Trillanes cases.

Fourth, we should work with government where it is doing the right things.

I support strongly the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law and the rehabilitation of Manila Bay. The latter must include disallowing all further reclamations in the area as that would threaten the historic sites of Old Manila while negating all gains from clean-up initiatives with the increase in

The Cross is not the end.

population such reclamation would entail.

Informal settlers must also be treated fairly in this undertaking. I will write soon about the importance of environmental justice and a just transition in this column.

Fifth, when there are bad developments and events in the country, we should maximize their use as teaching moments. The China policy of the Duterte administration, for example, is wrong and must be rejected. The way charter change has been approached also does not give us confidence that it will lead to real change. But in both instances, we can educate the people on the better choices.

Sixth, I told the UST Seminary alumni that we must keep on doing what are doing well especially to address the material and spiritual poverty of our people. I always emphasize that this historical moment for the country and the world, which is a bad one, will pass and there will be for sure an opportunity for renewal again. The saddest thing would not be not to learn from what has been happening and repeat our mistakes all over again.

Seventh, for the Catholic Church, I reiterated what Pope Francis has been saying Turn to A5

Toward energy security

DURING the state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping in November last year, the Philippines and China signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish a framework for future talks on joint oil and gas exploration in the disputed Recto Bank in the West Philippine Sea. The MOU stipulates a deadline of 12 months in which the two parties

The Philippines and China should come up with a legally binding framework within a 12-month period that would guide joint gas and oil exploration activities in the disputed waters in the years ahead.

would agree on areas and arrangements on how to pursue joint exploration activities. It says that the two sides “decided to negotiate on an accelerated basis arrangements to facilitate oil and gas exploration and exploitation in relevant maritime areas consistent with applicable rules of international law.”

All negotiations under the MOU "will be without prejudice to the respective legal positions of both governments," and “does not create rights or Turn to A5

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Opinion Jailing 12-year-olds OVER the weekend I stumbled onto an online statement of opposition to various House and Senate bills that propose to lower the minimum age of “criminal responsibility” (more softly described in the bills as “children in conflict with the law”) from 15 to 12 years old.

The statement came from some of my fellow alumni of the U.P. School of Economics. It is heartening to note just how far the products of this school have come down from their ivory tower since my years there in the seventies. But it also sobering to discover that even such illustrious folks can fall prey, no less than anybody else, to fallacies of illogic and unexamined ideology.

A disclaimer at the outset: I haven’t read any of these pending bills on lowering the minimum age of criminal liability. I can think of few things less boring than poring through legislation. If readers can summon up actual language from the bills to rebut me, I’ll be more than happy to stand corrected.

So: what are my fellow alumni saying, and why are they wrong? *** “Discernment” is not clearly defined when the House bill subjects the child who “acts with discernment” to “intervention and diversion proceedings.”

The UP alumni point to various local studies that connect the “age of discernment” to—variously—fifteen, eighteen, even twenty-five years old. This wide range of ages is no less vague than the House bill. And surely no one will argue that the minimum age of criminal liability could be set as high as 18, let alone 25 years old.

What the House bill does say is for the authorities to rely on “the discernment assessment tools developed by the DSWD.” That’s a practical answer to a question which academics aren’t helpful on. If you have a problem with the concept, take it up with the DSWD and the tools they’re using.

The U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child does consider the minimum age of criminal responsibility BELOW the age of 12 years as “in-

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obligations under international or domestic law." Moreover, the MOU itself states that it was drawn up in the context of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and positive dialogue between the two countries.

Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, a staunch critic of the Duterte administration's position on the West Philippine Sea dispute, is said to have no objection to the MOU provided that cooperation with China on oil and gas activities will be through service contractors who should expressly recognize that the area falls within Philippine sovereignty or sovereign rights.

But there is an obstacle to achieving the goal of the MOU: this is the moratorium on oil exploration covering the disputed Recto Bank or Service Contract 72 (SC 72) in the West Philippine Sea. The moratorium is the end-result of the case lodged in 2013 by Manila against Beijing before the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague in the Netherlands that was eventually decided in our favor in July 2016. Here, the arbitration court ruled that Reed (Recto) Bank, where SC 72 lies, is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) as defined under UNCLOS. The moratorium was imposed by the

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ment of Budget and Management chief allegedly made a P75-billion insertion on some flood mitigation projects in Sorsogon, supposedly to boost the political stock of an in-law.

Diokno has served the DBM three times now—first as an undersecretary for then President Cory Aquino from 1986 to 1991. And then he was appointed as secretary by President Joseph Estrada. Diokno was also DBM secretary under GMA. In all instances that Diokno served in the department, he has established a reputation for honesty, integrity and

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since the start of his papacy: Let’s go back to being a missionary church and bring the Church to the people.

2019 has been declared by the CBCP as the Year of the Youth. This is part of a nine-year preparation for 2021 when the Philippine Church will celebrate the fifth centenary—500 years—of the arrival of the Gospel in the archipelago. The preparation was launched in 2013 and each year is dedicated to a specific theme related to the faith and new evangelization. 2018

ternationally acceptable.” But elsewhere in that document, the U.N. also “urges State parties not to lower their minimum age…to the age of 12.”

This is the kind of “Yes, but…” answer we can expect from the diplomats and bureaucrats who inhabit the United Nations. These guys by their nature and profession want to have their cake and eat it too. So when they answer like this, do we focus on the “Yes” or on the “but…”? It’s a poor way to form public policy—and luckily for us, as Duterte keeps reminding us, we don’t have to listen to the U.N. to do what we think is best for us.

What are my fellow alumni saying, and why are they wrong?

Other Philippine laws establish 18 years as the “age of majority”—to vote, to indulge in tobacco and alcohol, to get married.

True, but we also have the current law (which the UP alumni support) setting the minimum age of criminal liability at 15 years. So right now, even now, the law already makes a distinction between the age of majority and the age of criminal liability. Whatever the former is, has nothing to do with where the latter should be.

Criminals will adapt to the change in law.

Syndicate heads can simply deploy children younger than 12 to carry out crimes.

The adaptability of criminals—shared with other humans—is not an argument for doing nothing, but in fact an argument for persevering and adapting as well against them. If syndicate heads end up recruiting younger and younger, and so long as we follow them down, at some point it will just be too much trouble for them to change the diapers of their felonious accomplices.

PNP studies show that only two percent of crimes are committed by children.

Department of Energy on Dec. 12, 2014 upon the recommendation of the Department of Foreign Affairs. It remains in place until the DFA notifies the affected parties that they can commence drilling activities.

The DOE has recommended to the DFA the lifting of the moratorium following the request of Forum GSEC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Forum Energy which has a 70 percent participating stake in SC 72. PXP Energy, formerly Philex Petroleum, holds a 78.98 percent direct and indirect interest in Forum Energy.

Apart from PXP Energy, the stateowned Philippine National Oil Company-Exploration Corp. (PNOC-EC) is also eyeing exploration work in the West Philippine Sea. The DOE has opened to interested investors 14 prospective petroleum areas for exploration under the Philippine Conventional Energy Contracting Program (PCECP). All these 14 areas are within the Philippines’ EEZ and covers onshore and offshore blocks in Luzon and Mindanao.

Forum GSEC has urged the DOE to lift the moratorium on SC 72. It said this will not only be a positive development for its SC 72 block but also for the country because it will allow them and another company with a stake in SC 72—Monte de Oro—to resume exploration and appraisal activities in the area, which include the drilling of two appraisal wells on their Sampaguita gas discovery. This

This outlier argument is especially specious.

In the PNP’s index list of major crimes, it’s quite unlikely that any one of those crimes—whether murder, rape, or whatever—is committed by more than 200,000 people in a given year. So should we now decriminalize their behavior because they’re fewer than two percent of the population?

There are not enough “Bahay Pagasa” centers for children, and some of them have “subhuman conditions” and are “worse than prisons.”

Exactly the same problems of overpopulation and poor conditions—and on an even wider scale—afflict the country’s jails. But nobody’s calling for the wholesale release of inmates, or the police slowing down their arrest rates, for that reason. If the problem is infrastructure, then the right answer is to build or improve more of it. *** Much of the rest of the U.P. alumni statement focuses on two propositions that are arguable at best: Poverty in our country is the main cause of criminality.

Even if this were true, it does not excuse or even mitigate an individual’s responsibility for his own criminal behavior. And it is such notions of responsibility that ought to be driving our policies about punishing—or, in the case of juveniles, forcibly rehabilitating—criminals.

Moreover, there are many more poor people who still live within the law. They ought to be offended by this kind of patronizing generalization that being poor somehow predisposes you to a weaker moral or civic conscience.

Ours is a culture that highly values its children.

This one is true—and it’s precisely why we ought to be acting as soon as possible to correct and redirect our children whenever they start going bad. The U.P. alumni insult the rest of us by implying that we will treat our child offenders no better than the adult ones. We are not Neanderthals, we know what “age-appropriate” means when we consider how best to reform our young.

The position paper closes with a quote from the late Senator Jose Diokno, that we want to have “a nation for our children.” On that point I think we can all, of course, agree.

Readers can write me at gbolivar1952@yahoo. com.

discovery is said to contain approximately 2.5 trillion cubic feet of recoverable gas that would be a new source of gas as replacement for Malampaya, which is expected to start a decline in production by 2022.

The two firms will spend at least $80 million to $100 million in the next two to three years to fully appraise the Sampaguita Gas Field and other identified prospects within the contract area.

The DOE imposed the moratorium on exploration in Recto Bank five years ago, but it wants to defer to the DFA in determining the resumption of such activities. Meantime, it has already opened communications with China’s National Energy Commission, which is its counterpart in China.

What is ideal is for the two countries to come up with a legally binding framework within a 12-month period that would guide joint gas and oil exploration activities in the disputed waters in the years ahead.

The Philippines needs to beef up energy security as we are already trailing behind our neighbors in upstream petroleum activities. With accelerated infrastructure development activities in the coming years and Malampaya about to run out of steam, oil and gas exploration in Recto Bank must start not later than 2027 as it will take at least six years for it to pump out its first output.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019

Three illustrious grandfathers, three worthy grandsons THREE of the 63 candidates allowed by the Comelec (Commission on Elections) to seek Senate seats in the May 13, 2019 election have two things in common. One of the things is that their fathers and paternal grandfathers were senators. The other point of similarity is that they have established excellent track records as professionals either with the government or in the private sector.

The three candidates who are the subjects of this column are Jose Manuel ‘Chel’ Diokno, Lorenzo ‘Erin’ Tañada III and Serge Osmeña. Chel Diokno has never held a government position, Erin Tañada was a three-term member of the House of Representatives representing the 4thDistrict of Quezon and Serge Osmeña served three terms as a Senator (1995-2007; 2010-2016).

When people hear the name Jose Manuel Diokno, they tend automatically to think of the late, memorable Jose Wright ‘Pepe’ Diokno, who was elected to the Senate after a stint as President Diosdado Macapagal’s Secretary of Justice and was jailed and placed in solitary confinement, along with Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr., by President Ferdinand Marcos in 1972. What most of today’s Filipinos do not know is that Jose W. Diokno was not the first senator in Chel Diokno’s family. Chel’s grandfather Ramon was duly elected to the Senate in the 1946 election, which would have been held in 1945 were it not for World War II. When elected, Chel Diokno will thus be the third senator in the Diokno family, whose roots are in Taal, Batangas.

Chel Diokno’s life thus far may be summed up by two phrases—human rights and law-school running. His passion for human rights is perfectly understandable, considering the experience of his father at the hands of Ferdinand Marcos. There can be no doubt about the depth of the trauma that Chel Diokno—then a young teenager—suffered as a result of the long incarceration of Sen. Jose Diokno. Chel Diokno is in every respect his father’s son: he is to be found at the head of every pro-human-rights action against the government of the day and he is one of the leading figures of the human rights organization FLAG (Filipino Legal Action Group). If he were alive today, ‘Ka Pepe’ Diokno would be exceedingly proud of his son.

Members of the judiciary and the legal profession know that Chel Diokno’s other major professional preoccupation is running a law school. Sen. Jose Diokno’s son is the Dean of De La Salle University College of Law. DLSU’s law school is only a few years old, but under Chel Diokno’s leadership it has, in such a brief period, made its mark in the world of Philippine legal education.

Erin Tañada’s political pedigree is equally formidable. His grandfather, Lorenzo Tañada, was a parliamentarian par excellence and was one of the finest men ever to have walked the halls of the Senate. One of the prosecutors at the war crimes trial of Japa-

President Duterte said he would not hesitate to kick out officials with so much as a whiff of corruption about them, he continues to have trust and confidence in Diokno.

The budget mess may result in a reenacted budget since tomorrow is the last day for the approval of the budget.

This is why we cannot trust members of Congress with the people’s money. *** The Duterte administration is slowly and surely finding out that the cleanup of Manila Bay is a massive undertaking.

The problem is not only the establishments and restaurants but the squatters.

Manila Bay has just so many pollutants.

The cleanup cannot be done by just one or two departments.

was for example dedicated to the clergy and the religious.

The Filipino youth has been described as beloved, gifted, and empowered. As a teacher in many universities from Mindanao to Manila, I can affirm this. I am sure that the future of our land is good because of them. They will do better than my generation and older ones.

This is why I have hope, I told the alumni and seminarians of UST Seminary. I pointed out that we are in a moment of special grace today. Today’s Philippines is a gift to the Catholic Church and to the people of God as we prepare for the 2021 anniversary.

We are being asked to learn again what Saint Thomas Aquinas described as the virtues of the Cross. According to this wisest of saints: “Why did the Son of God have to suffer for us? There was a great need, and it can be considered in a twofold way: in the first place, as a remedy for sin, and secondly, as an example of how to act.

It is a remedy, for, in the face of all the evils which we incur on account of our sins, we have found relief through the passion of Christ. Yet, it is no less an example, for the passion of Christ completely suffices to fashion our lives. Whoever

nese general Tomoyuki Yamashita, Lorenzo Tañada would, three decades later, fiercely oppose the dictatorial regime established

by Ferdinand Marcos. Erin Tañada’s father Wigberto, a Manuel Luis Quezon University-trained lawyer, joined the family’s patriarch in opposing the Marcos’ dictatorship, making the Tañadas a father-and-son antiMarcos machine. Before winning a Senate seat in 1987, Wigberto Tañada served as Commissioner of Customs in the administration of President Corazon C. Aquino.

Erin Tañada inherited every bit of the passion for human rights protection and national sovereignty enhancement of his grandfather and father. During and after his days as an Ateneo student Erin Tañada was a fixture at rallies and marches protesting violations of human rights, and government shortcomings vis-à-vis farmers, urban workers, women and other disadvantaged groups. Grandfather, father and grandson: how many families in this country can claim to have had three generations of street parliamentarians?

The fruit does not fall far from the tree.

Sooner or later Erin Tañada would have to follow his forebears into the world of politics. That time came in 2004. In the elections of that year Erin Tañada was elected Representative of the Fourth District of Quezon, the district in which Gumaca, the Tañada family’s hometown, is located. During the course of his three-term stay in the House of Representatives Erin Tañada was elected Deputy Speaker. He authored or co-authored numerous bills of national significance.

The ones for which he will almost certainly be best remembered are the bills—in due course enacted into law—relating to universal health care, the coconut levy, anti-torture, human rights victims’ compensation and micro, small medium enterprises promotion.

The identity of the third 2019 senatorial candidate whose grandfather and father were both Senators is given away by his first name—Serge. Sergio Osmeña III’s grandfather was Senator Sergio Osmeña, who went on to become President of the Philippines.

Serge Osmeña’s father, Sergio Osmeña Jr., was elected to the Senate in the 1959 election after having served the Osmeña family’s home province, Cebu, as governor and Representative. Sergio Osmeña Jr. made history in 1960, when he was expelled from the Senate for disorderly conduct after making a “one million reasons” accusation against President Carlos P. Garcia. Serge Osmeña narrowly missed re-election to the Senate in 2016 after having served three terms.

Three illustrious grandfathers, three worthy grandsons. As the saying goes, the fruit does not fall far from the tree.

Makabayan bloc against bay cleanup

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competence. People in the department admire him.

The way I see it, the congressmen may have a hard time smearing the Budget chief with their yet-unproven accusations, especially since no concrete evidence of irregularity has been presented until now.

Significantly, several members of the Cabinet have expressed support for Diokno and deplored what they say was a disrespectful way the congressmen have treated their colleague.

They also said that the lawmakers’ call for the President to oust Diokno is an outright violation of the separation of powers between two independent branches of the government.

The factor to consider is that while

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NOT one among the previous five administrations ever lifted a finger to alleviate Manila Bay’s degradation over three decades. None of the five presidents did even a lip-service to address this environmental issue.

It was not until the Duterte administration that true voices of the people were heard, crying out for government action to breathe life into the historic Manila Bay. Neither the outspoken progressive groups ever said anything about it, and now openly protesting the launching of “Battle for Manila Bay” rehabilitation program.

In my humble opinion, the left-wing group’s argument against the bay’s rehabilitation is simply flimsy and frivolous, making it sound like anti-poor.

To say that said undertaking should be canceled or postponed until after informal settlers are “consulted” and awarded relocation is unreasonable and counter-productive.

This squatter problem in our country is worse than anywhere in the world. Anyone can put up a house just anywhere they want, be it along the coast of Manila Bay or esteros,

wishes to live perfectly should do nothing but disdain what Christ disdained on the cross and desire what he desired, for the cross exemplifies every virtue.

If you seek the example of love: Greater love than this no man has, than to lay down his life for his friends. Such a man was Christ on the cross. And if he gave his life for us, then it should not be difficult to bear whatever hardships arise for his sake.

If you seek patience, you will find no better example than the cross . . .

If you seek an example of humility, look upon the crucified one, for God wished to be

which violates the Clean Water Act of 2004.

And before we clear up the water pollution, Makabayan insists we have to consult the people who make a lucrative business out of it, renting out rooms in squatter areas.

For all we know, many of the illegal occupants had been given relocation and cash assistance to various areas outside Metro Manila, like Bulacan, Cavite and Laguna, but they come back to squat wherever they choose to.

Makabayan also points out the murky waters of Manila Bay are a source of livelihood for scavengers who gather recyclable materials washed ashore. And for that reason, we should not clean the mess up.

I often interview some Makabayan bloc representatives in Congress and I respect their opinion. I beg to differ on this issue and I tend to agree with DILG Asst. Sec. Jonathan Malaya’s observation that the leftists are unfairly politicizing the environmental issue on Manila Bay. Unfortunately for them, their alarmist assertions have failed to gather public support ahead of an election campaign.

They were quick to accuse the government of mounting the bay cleanup as a prelude to expanded reclamation projects. This is a total lie—nothing but fake news.

I suggest the Makabayan leaders and supporters, instead of grandstanding, chill out and enjoy a better Manila Bay against the backdrop of its beautiful sunset.

judged by Pontius Pilate and to die.

If you seek an example of obedience, follow him who became obedient to the Father even unto death. For just as by the disobedience of one man, namely, Adam, many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one man, many were made righteous.”

The Cross is not the end. There is always resurrection and we can begin by conquering evil with good.

Facebook Page: Professor Tony La Viña Twitter: tonylavs Email: tonylavs@gmail.com

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019 Standard TODAY mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Duterte approves law reapportioning Leyte

By Nat Mariano PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte, born in Maasin, Leyte on March 28, 1945, has signed a law reapportioning the province of Southern Leyte into two legislative districts, according to a document released by Malacañang on Monday.

The Republic Act 11198 was approved by the President on Friday, three months before the May midterm elections.

Under the law, the first legislative district shall be composed of the City of Maasin and the seven other municipalities such as Macrohon, Padre Burgos, Limasawa, Malitbog, Tomas Oppus, and Bontoc.

The towns of Sogod, Libagon, Liloan, San Francisco, Pintuyan, San Ricardo, Saint Bernard, Anahawan, San Juan, Hinundayan, Hinunangan, and Silago shall complete the second legislative district.

“The incumbent Representative of the Lone Legislative District of the Province of Southern Leyte shall continue to represent the legislative district until the new representatives of the first and second legislative districts shall have been duly elected and qualified,” the RA read.

The Commission on Elections shall then issue necessary rules and regulations for its implementation within 30 days upon the Act’s effectivity.

Republic of the Philippines Province of Ilocos Sur Local Government Unit Santiago Ilocos Sur INVITATION TO BID The Municipality of Santiago, Ilocos Sur through its Bids and Awards Committee (BAC), invites contractors registered with and classified by the Philippine contractors Accreditation Board (PCAB) to apply for eligibility and if found eligible to bid for the hereunder contract: 1. Name of Project Location Brief Description Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) Source of Fund Contract Duration Cost of Bid Documents

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

News

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Manila

: : :

Construction of Bridge and Farm to Market Road Salincub - Olo-olo Sur, Santiago, Ilocos Sur Construction

: : : :

20,000,000.00 RA 7171 180 CD 25,000.00

Almost 800, including 200 fugitives arrested in 2018—BI dination with other countries or International police.

The Manila International Airport Authority, for its part, assured air travelers it is giving utmost priority and attention to the implementation of strict security measures at the NAIA. This after US Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration last December conducted an assessment and gave recommendations regarding airport security enhancement and improvements.

The recommendations of the TSA include the installation of new equipment such as X-ray machines, walk-through metal detectors, and alarm systems.

Another recommendation was the conduct of new background check procedures for newly hired airport personnel, which will include neighborhood and NICA (National Intelligence Coordinating Agency) checks for those implementing security control, and submission of new NBI clearances for all MIAA access pass holders.

The TSA also recommended a change in the “security culture” among long-time NAIA personnel in the area of consistent implementation and observance of strict security procedures.

By Vito Barcelo and Joel Zurbano

C

LOSE to 800 foreign nationals were arrested last year, more than 200 of them fugitives, as a result of the agency’s intensified campaign against illegal aliens, while 611 aliens were deported in the same year after they were found guilty of violating the country’s Immigration Act. Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said that many of those arrested were caught in flagrante working without permits or engaging in gainful activity without proper visas.

Morente said 533 aliens were arrested while more than 200 foreign fugitives were apprehended by the bureau.

“I am proud to say that due to our intensified campaign against illegal aliens the number of arrests we made last year was 326 percent greater than those apprehended in 2017,” Morente said.

In a related development: • Immigration authorities at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport will now place all transit air travelers under rigid scrutiny as part of the enhanced security measures at the country’s main gateway.

NAIA chief immigration officer Grifton

Medina wants to make sure that transit passengers, especially those whose final destinations are Europe and United States, are all cleared before flying out from Manila.

Before, the Bureau of Immigration was just checking the passengers’ boarding pass. But with the new directives, all transit passengers should undergo security screening.

“If a person has a record in another country, or if he or she is a suspect terrorist, his or her name would automatically hit in the system, and that person could be prevented from entering the country,” said Medina.

He added that using state of the art system, the agency protects the people by checking stolen passports and counterfeit documents.

Medina said the bureau heightened its security measures at the NAIA and is conducting continuous training and inter-agency coor-

The BAC will conduct the procurement process in accordance with the Revised IRR of RA 9184. Bids received in excess of the BAC shall be automatically rejected at the opening of bid.

To bid for this contract, a contractor must submit a Letter of Intent (LOI), purchase bid documents and must meet the following major criteria) prior registration with Local Government Unit-Santiago, Ilocos Sur (b) Filipino citizen or 75% Filipino-owned partnership, corporation, cooperative, or joint venture, (c) with PCAB License applicable to the type and cost of this contract, (d) completion of a similar contract costing at least 50% of ABC within a period of 10 years, and (e) Net Financial Contracting Capacity at least equal to ABC, or credit line commitment for at least 10% of ABC. The BAC will use non-discretionary pass/fail criteria in the eligibility check and preliminary examination of bids.

Unregistered contractors, however, shall submit their applications for registration to the Local Government Unit-Santiago, Ilocos Sur before the deadline for the receipt of LOI. The Local Government UnitSantiago, Ilocos Sur will only process contractor’s applications for registration, with complete requirements, and issue the Contractor’s Certificate of Registration (CRC).

The schedule of BAC activities is as follows: BAC Activities

Schedule

1. Advertisement/Posting of Invitation to bid/ Request for Expression of Interest

2-Feb-19

2. Issuance of Bid Documents

Feb.4 to Feb. 22, 2019 @ 8:00AM TO 5:00PM M-F

3. Pre Bid Conference

Feb. 8, 2019@ 10:00 AM

4. Receipt and Opening of Bids

Feb. 22, 2019 @ 10:00 AM

The BAC will issue hard copies of Bidding Documents (BD’s) at Local Government Unit-Santiago, Ilocos Sur, upon payment of a non-refundable fee as stated. The Pre-bid Conference shall be open only to interested parties who have purchased the BD’s. Bids must be accompanied by a bid security, in the amount and acceptable form, as stated in Section 27.2 of the Revised IRR. Mailed intends shall not be entertained.

Prospective bidders shall submit their duly accomplished forms as specified in the BD’s in two (2) separate sealed bid envelopes to the BAC Chairman. The first envelope shall contain the technical component of the bid, which shall include the technical component of the bid, which shall include a copy of the CRC. The second envelope shall contain the financial component of the bid. Contract will be awarded to the Lowest Calculated Responsive Bid as determined in the bid evaluation and the post-qualification.

The Local Government Unit of Santiago, Ilocos Sur reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bid and to annul the bidding process any time before Contract award, without incurring any liability to the affected bidders.

Approved by: (SGD.) NESTOR C. PERALTA JR. BAC Chairman

(MST-FEB. 5, 2019)

Republic of the Philippines Department of Education REGION IV-A CALABARZON Gate 2, Karangalan Village 1900 Cainta, Rizal

PROJECT NO.RO IVA- TVL 2018-3 INVITATI0N TO BID FOR THE SUPPLY, DELIVERY, INSTALLATION, TESTING, COMMISSIONING AND TRAINING FOR VARIOUS TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT FOR 2018 TECHNICAL-VOCATIONAL-LIVELIHOOD (TVL) PROGRAMS OF REGION IV-A TVL SENIOR HIGH SCHOOLS (BATCH 3).

1.

The Department of Education Region IV-A, through the Government of the Philippines (GOP) under the FY 2018 General Appropriations Act (GAA), intends to apply the sum of Philippine Pesos Forty Six Million Twenty Nine Thousand Three Hundred Eighty Nine and 28/100 (Php6,029,387.28), to payments under the various contracts for the Supply, Delivery, Installation, testing, Commissioning and Training for Various Tools and Equipment for 20 18 Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) Programs of Region IV-A TVL Senior High Schools (Batch 3), broken down as follows: Lot No.

Description

Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC)

1

Educational Automotive Simulator

Php 6,029,387.28

Bids received in excess of the ABC for each Lot shall be automatically rejected at Bid Opening.

2.

DepEd IV-A through its Bids and Awards Committee, now invites bids for the goods and services contemplated in this project and as detailed in the Schedule of Requirements and table of Technical Specifications indicated in the bidding documents. Delivery of the goods is required within seventy five (75) calendar days from the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. Bidders should have completed within ten (10) years immediately preceding the deadline for the submission of bids, at least two (2) c ontracts similar to the Project, the aggregate applicable contract amount being equivalent to at least fifty percent (50%) of the ABC of the lot bid for, and the largest of those said contracts is equivalent to twenty five percent (25%) of the said ABC. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly in Section II Instruction to Bidders.

3.

Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the 2016 Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act”.

Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorshjps, partnerships, or organization with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183.

4.

Interested bidders may obtain further information from DepEd IV-A (Supply Unit) and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below during Monday to Friday at 8:00 am to 4:00 pm starting February 4, 2019 up to February 25, 2019.

5.

It may also be downloaded free of charge from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhiIGEPS) and the website of the Procuring Entity, provided the Bidders shall pay the non-refundable applicable fee for the Bidding Documents not later than the submission of their bids.

Lot No.

Amount of Bid Docs

1

Php 5,000.00

6.

The DepEd IV-A will hold a Pre-bid Conference on February 11, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bulwagan ng Karangalan. Gate 2 Karangalan Drive, Cainta, Rizal which shall be open to prospective bidders.

7.

Bids must be duly received by the BAC Secretariat at the address below on or before February 25, 2019 at 10:00 a.m .. All Bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18.

Bid opening shall be on February 25, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. at Bulwagan ng Karangalan, Gate 2 Karangalan Drive, Cainta, Riza!. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

8.

DepEd IV-A reserves the right to reject any or all bids, declare a failure of bidding, or not award the contract at any time prior to contract award in accordance with Section 41 of RA 9184 and its IRR, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

9.

For further information, please refer to: Virginia O. Bagacay DepEd IV-A Gate 2 Karangalan Drive, Cainta, Rizal Tel. No. 6477487 or 6474919 (SGD.) CARLITO D. ROCAFORT BAC Chairman

(MST-FEB. 5, 2019)

MEDICAL DONATION. Tingog party-list secretary-general Rachel Rodeles-Santiago (right) and Tingog party-list NCR coordinator lawyer Peachy Marcos (left) represent Tingog party-list 1st Nominee and Leyte (1st Dist) Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez in turnover ceremony of complete medical kit to Brgy. Batasan Hills Cluster 9 Purok Leader Alfredo Odiongan (second right) and Cluster 7 Purok Leader Che Padernal (second left). Ver Noveno

Baldo’s lawyer opposes Crame transfer THE lawyer of suspended Daraga, Albay Mayor Carlwyn Baldo on Monday said his client would oppose plans by the local police to transfer him to the Philippine National Police hospital in Camp Crame in Quezon City.

Lawyer Lewinsky Fernandez, in an interview on Super Radyo dzBB beamed nationwide, said they would oppose the move.

Baldo is the primary suspect in the killing of Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Rodel Batocabe, who was leading in an unofficial pre-election survey for the post of mayor in Daraga.

Baldo is confined at the UST-Legazpi Hospital in Albay since Jan. 23 after suffering from hyperventilation in his detention cell.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in the Bicol Region has cases of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition and illegal possession of an explosive before the Albay Provincial Prosecution Office against Baldso.

Fernandez said he visited Baldo Monday to update him on the hearing on their motion for bail.

“We objected [to the planned transfer] because they cannot insist on transferring him to a hospital that is not his choice since it violates his constitutional right,” Fernandez said.

The lawyer said Baldo still has to undergo several tests at the hospital.

High school studes wear headscarves SENIOR high school students of Taguig National High School wore the Hijab (head covering) for a day in solidarity with Muslim women and girls.

This is part of World Hijab Day, an annual global event that asks citizens of all faiths to try the clothing to combat discrimination and celebrate diversity.

Peacebuilding NGO International Alert Philippines organized the activity with TNHS and United Youth for Peace and Development Maharlika Village.

“The World Hijab Day event aims to provide opportunities for young people to get to know more deeply their peers whom they are acquainted with but may not necessarily understand,” said Nina Bahjin-Imlan, Project Officer for International Alert’s Youth and Women Program.

Bahjin-Imlan said it was a good way for the students to experience how to “walk in a someone else’s hijab” and see for themselves the discrimination that Muslim women face in the society, especially as

they have visual identifiers of their faith.

“It is a good exercise in empathy, respect, and tolerance,” she explained, “which is very much needed at a time of a volatile national political climate.”

The Bahjin-Imlan was talking about the recent twin bombings at a cathedral in Jolo, Sulu and the Zamboanga mosque blast which happened shortly after the Jan. 21 plebiscite for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law. According to Bahjin-Imlan, it is after atrocities like these that Muslim Filipinos experience a spike in backlash and an increase in the incidence of hate speech and harassment. Interfaith events like the World Hijab Day can combat this phenomenon, Bahjin-Imlan said.

This World Hijab Day event is part of International Alert Philippines’s wider advocacy of passing House Bill 8637 or the proposed “Anti-Racial, Ethnic and Religious Discrimination Act” which the House of Repre-

sentatives has passed on second reading in December last year.

The bill seeks to protect and enhance the rights of all people to human dignity, reduce social, economic and political inequalities, as well as remove cultural inequities.

The group also commended Taguig City for passing its own anti-discrimination ordinance in 2018 and looks forward to more local government units doing the same.

Bahjin-Imlan underscored the need for government to institutionalize mechanisms that promote inclusivity in schools, public offices, the private sector, and society in general, especially as discrimination is one of the vectors of violent extremism.

Bahjin-Imlan noted that their organization has learned that discrimination against Muslim Filipinos increase grievances and make them more vulnerable to violent extremist influence, especially in urban centers where they are usually alienated and pushed into homogenous enclaves.

PCSO to build own corporate center in Manila PHILIPPINE Charity Sweepstakes Office general manager Alexander Balutan announced on Monday the agency would construct its own corporate center in San Marcelino, Manila to decongest its satellite office at the Lung Center of the Philippines, which is servicing 700 patients per day.

“We will continue to help our indigent patients nationwide. We shall maintain the Individual Medical Assistance Program [IMAP] although the Universal Healthcare [UHC] law is already there, PCSO will help in looking for funds at PhilHealth,” Balutan said in a statement.

Likewise, PCSO Satellite Office located at LCP shall be transferred to Veterans Memorial Medical Center.

Balutan dispelled rumors that PCSO would stop giving medical assistance once UHC law had been fully implemented.

Earlier, Balutan revealed the agency was set to give 40 percent from the 30 percent of the Charity Fund, which is about P8 billion for UHC on the third quarter this year.

UHC will catalyze reforms for the health care system in the Philippines, particularly strengthening primary care services, through the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. or PhilHealth.

UHC will ensure adequate funding through the Department of Health annual budget, revenues from sin taxes, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., PCSO, and PhilHealth members’ contribution.

PCSO Charter, or RA 1169, particularly on revenue allocation, provides that the revenue of the PCSO shall be allocated to 55 percent for prize fund (payment of prizes), 30 percent for charity fund (various charity programs and service) and 15 percent as operating fund (maintenance and operating expenses).

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

Sports Irving scores 30 as Celtics snap OKC’s winning run NEW YORK—Kyrie Irving scored 30 points and passed out 11 assists on Sunday as the Boston Celtics snapped Oklahoma City’s seven-game NBA win streak with a 134-129 home triumph.

Marcus Morris added 19 points and Marcus Smart netted 18 as eight of nine players taking the court for Boston scored in double figures and the Celtics improved to 34-19, matching Philadelphia for third in the Eastern Conference.

“We have great continuity, great rhythm,” Irving said. “Playing the best we can every single day.”

The Thunder fell to 33-19, four games adrift of Western Conference leaders Denver and Golden State, despite a sixth consecutive triple double from Russell Westbrook, who had 22 points, 16 assists and 12 rebounds.

Westbrook hit a 3-pointer, made a steal and sank two free throws to pull the visitors within 121-119 in the final minutes.

Jerami Grant’s 3-pointer pulled the Thunder within 129-128. Boston’s Jayson Tatum hit only 1-of-2 free throws but Irving forced a Westbrook turnover and Tatum added two more from the line to give the Celtics a 132-128 edge with 7.4 seconds to play.

Westbrook sank a free throw but missed the rim on his second attempt trying to set up a Thunder rebound and the Celtics took the ball, Smart hitting two final free throws to seal the victory.

“Down the stretch it’s winning time.

Just like that,” Irving said. “That’s a great team over there. It was a great challenge.”

Paul George led the Thunder with 37 points and New Zealand’s Steven Adams added 16 points and nine rebounds for Oklahoma City.

The Thunder reeled off 11 points in a row in just over two minutes for a 7673 lead in the third quarter but Morris answered with a corner 3-pointer to begin a 12-2 Boston run and the Celtics bounced back to lead 99-93 entering the fourth quarter.

“We played with more aggressiveness on offense and we moved better on defense,” said Celtics coach Brad Stevens, whose club improved to 20-0 at home when leading after three quarters.

The Celtics hit a season-best 59 percent of their shots from the floor.

At Toronto, the host Raptors ripped the Los Angeles Clippers 121-103 behind 18 points from Kawhi Leonard plus 16 points and 12 rebounds from Congo-born Spaniard Serge Ibaka. AFP

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019 sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

Brady wins 6th Super Bowl

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TLANTA—Tom Brady wrote his name into the record books here Sunday, winning the Super Bowl for a sixth time as the New England Patriots defeated the Los Angeles Rams 13-3 in the lowest scoring NFL championship game in history.

Brady, 41, became the first player ever to win six Super Bowls, 17 years after leading the Patriots to his first title way back in 2002.

The total of 16 points scored in the game was the lowest ever in a Super Bowl, surpassing Miami’s 14-7 win over Washington in 1973.

The attritional season-finale was swiftly dubbed the “SuperBore” by critics on social media.

“We’ve been this far and lost which is really tough,” a jubilant Brady said.

“We had a lot of resolve the last couple of weeks I wish we played a little better on offense but we won. Super bowl champs.”

Patriots head coach Bill Belichick mean- Tom Brady

while said the team had been determined to dispel suggestions they were a dynasty in decline.

“It’s sweet,” Belichick said.

“Everybody counted us out from the beginning of the season, mid-season, but we’re still here.”

Brady—already widely regarded as the greatest quarterback the National Football League has ever seen—provided the decisive moment to break open the game midway through the fourth quarter at Atlanta’s MercedesBenz Stadium.

With the score finely balanced at 3-3, Brady picked out tight end Rob Gronkowski for a 29-yard completion that left the Patriots

just two yards from the line.

It was the first time in the game that either side had advanced to 1st and goal in a defense-dominated game that failed to live up to its billing.

The Patriots were in no mood to waste the hard-fought opportunity, and rookie running back Sony Michel crashed over for what turned out to be the crucial score.

The Rams looked to have finally found some fluency as they chased a touchdown to level, but quarterback Jared Goff was picked off by corner Stephon Gilmore to leave the Patriots in sight of victory.

The Patriots marched up field on the subsequent possession and Stephen Gostkowski’s second field goal with 1min 16sec remaining made it a twoscore game.

The Patriots’ triumph saw them join the Pittsburgh Steelers with six Super Bowl titles, the most by any franchise.

Patriots receiver Julian Edelman was named Super Bowl MVP for a series of crucial receptions that kept the Patriots on the front foot at critical moments.

Edelman missed all of last season after suffering a serious knee injury and was also banned for failing a drugs test last year.

“Tough times don’t last, tough people do,” Edelman said. “I preach that, and I guess you have to live to it.”

Salvia powers STI Las Pinas in National Basketball tilt

PTT RUN PROCEEDS. PTT Philippines Foundation, Inc. Paul Patricio Senador (left) receives the P50,000 check from Matthew Ardina (right), Project Director of Subterranean Ideas Entertainment, Inc., organizer of the recent PTT Run for Clean Energy Year 2.

The amount represents portion of the proceeds from the recent fun run activity that will go to various environmental projects of the Foundation. A strong advocate of environmental protection and preservation, PTT Philippines has been conducting several reforestation projects in various parts of the country. These are the “Gas Up for a Tree” in Bataan, “BakaJuan: Back to the Mangroves” in Cavite, and “Sibol” in Antipolo, among others. Last year’s edition of PTT Run aimed at raising the level of awareness on cleaner environment drew close to 3,000 fun run enthusiasts.

Fowler banishes demons to bag Cotabato archers clinch Batang Pinoy’s 1st gold Phoenix Open LOS ANGELES—Rickie Fowler survived a nervy back nine on Sunday to shoot a three-over 74, out-dueling Branden Grace down the stretch to win the Phoenix Open for his fifth US PGA Tour title.

Fowler lost a five-stroke lead on a roller-coaster back nine, and closed with the highest score by a winner in tournament history, but he still managed to banish some demons at TPC Scottsdale.

He held the 54-hole lead here twice before, including last year when he finished in a tie for 11th.

“I had to dig deep and fight through. It wasn’t easy out there,” said Fowler. “I am happy to get this one out of the way.

“It has been long time to get a win here. There have been plenty of good finishes, but too many second-place finishes.”

His 17-under 267 total was good enough to win by two strokes over South Africa’s Grace, who briefly held the lead on Sunday but made a bogey on 17.

Grace fired his second straight twounder 69 to finish alone in second.

American Justin Thomas was third after a one-over 72 for a 14-under total to finish three strokes back of his roommate this week Fowler.

Matt Kuchar (75), Bubba Watson (71) and Chez Reavie (68) finished tied for fourth at 12-under.

This is the PGA Tour’s lone stop in Arizona and the only event on the annual west coast swing that’s held outside of California.

For a while, it appeared the tournament might even be heading for a playoff for a fourth straight year as both Fowler and Grace found sand and water on the back nine.

Playing in a driving rain, Fowler had to survive a shocking triple bogey on the par-four 11th hole. AFP

Missed chances The Rams meanwhile were left reflecting on what might have been, with receiver Brandin Cooks twice having what looked like certain touchdowns denied by last-ditch defensive plays from New England in the second half.

It was a bitter end to the season for Rams coach Sean McVay, who at 33 would have been the youngest winner of the Super Bowl.

Instead McVay was outfoxed by Patriots counterpart Belichick, whose defensive gameplan choked the life out of the Rams, the second most potent offense in the NFL this season who had averaged more than 30 points a game.

“There is really no other way to put it. I’m pretty numb right now, but definitely, I got out-coached,” McVay said afterwards.

“I didn’t do nearly enough for our football team.”

An attritional first half had seen defense dominate, with the Rams—the second most potent offense in the league this season—restricted to a meagre 57 yards.

The Patriots meanwhile looked the more composed with their run game making good yardage early on.

Although Brady suffered the indignity of throwing an interception with his first pass attempt, the Rams were unable to escape the Patriots defense. AFP

TAGUM CITY—Young archers from Cotabato bared their fangs early as they clinched the first gold medals in the Mindanao leg of the 2019 Batang Pinoy Monday at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism archery range here.

Grace Signacion and Rhyniyll Yvis Endaya bannered South Cotabato after topping the girls’ yeoman 20-meter and girls’ bowman 30-meter (72 arrows) events, while Romee Jonathan Rioja and Justin Matthew Basadre of Koronadal City ruled the boys’ yeoman 20-meter and boys’ bowman 30-meter (72 arrows) events in the opening salvo of this prestigious tourney for young athletes 15-years old and below.

Signacion, who turned 10 last Sunday, fired 328 points to dominate the first round before marching back in the second round with 319 points to tally a total score of 647 points en route to a golden finish.

Samantha Isabel Loreno of Koranadal City and Khrizleyn Hope Ferrer of South Cotabato fell short, scoring 605 and 546 points for silver and bronze medals, respectively.

“I’m so happy that I won,” said Signacion, adding that the sweet victory in this tourney backed by STI College-Tagum and Alfalink Total Solutions Corp. and organized by the Philippine Sports Commission was a fitting birthday gift for her.

“I dedicate this victory to my mother,

who encouraged me to take up the sport,” she said.

Meanwhile, the 12-year-old Endaya, who studies with Signacion at the Central Elementary School in Surallah town in South Cotabato, struck gold after registering 324 and 310 points for a total of 634 total points.

She bested South Cotabato’s GeAnne Gasendo (601) and Davao City’s Althea Kelly Odiong (593 points), who settled for the silver and bronze medals, respectively.

In the boys’ side, Rioja posted 551 points from a two-round 244-307 tally to claim the mint, edging South Cotabato’s Karl David Mejillano (497) and fellow Koronadal bet Paul Yrwan Bader (404).

PH’s best bets vie in Palanca Jr. taekwondo THE country’s best taekwondo performers are among 800 jins who will see action in the SMART MVP Sports Foundation/ PLDT HOME ULTERA CPJ (Carlos Palanca Jr.) championships on Feb. 9-10 at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Among these leading competitors who are eyeing slots on the 2019 Philippine team are Pauline Lopez, Arven Alcantara and Samuel Thomas Harper Morrison in Kyorugi (free sparring). Other veterans will bid for berths in Poomsae (forms).

Kyorugi will feature senior, junior, cadet and gradeschool fighters for both male and female divisions while Poomsae competition will be divided into three divisions —individual, team and pair.

Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) Secretary General, Makati Congressman Manuel Monsour del Rosario III, says the two-day CPJ competition will also serve as a tuneup for Philippine team members who will vie in the World Taekwondo Championships, Asian Cadet and Junior Championships, Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (test event), ATF Taekwondo Championships and the Southeast Asian Games.

The ATF Championships and SEA Games will be held in Manlla.

Sponsors of the CPJ tourney include PLDT, Meralco, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee and Milo.

UE’s John Angelo Benocilla, one of the top finishers in a previous CPJ event, executes a roundhouse kick against LSGH’s Hosea Marcus Calalang.

Parents interested to enroll their children in the sport and martial art enthusiasts are invited to witness the tourney starting at 9 a.m.

FRANCO Salvia put on an MVP-type performance, while Chris Jutie came off the bench and provided the additional firepower needed by STI Las Piñas, which blasted its counterpart, STI Rosario, 88-38, in the National Basketball Tournament at the STI Global City over the weekend.

Salvia, a graduating Business Management student, poured in 22 points, nine rebounds, eight assists and seven steals in an allaround performance to lead the Las Piñasbased dribblers Salvia to a blazing start in this tournament.

Backing up Salvia was Jutie, an Information Technology student, who tallied 22 markers and three steals.

Overall, Las Piñas completed 27 steals compared to only two for its rival.

So tough was Las Piñas’ defense that it forced Rosario to commit 37 turnovers. That led to 45 turnover points, 34 more than its opponent.

Las Piñas also dished out 23 assists compared to only six for Rosario, which was held to only five points in the fourth period.

Other top performers for Las Piñas were Jerome Faelden, who went a rebound away from posting a doubledouble, and Byron Alano.

Faelden had 13 points and nine rebounds while Alano contributed 12.

Also winning was STI Makati, which defeated STI Taft, 64-59.

Barrios, NBL execs to grace PSA Forum THE Philippine Sportswriters Association welcomes 2019 with its first ever weekly Forum on Chinese New Year at the Tapa King Restaurant in Farmers Plaza Cubao today with no less than Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Executive Director Sonny Barrios as special guest.

Barrios will be talking about the SBP plans for the year including the final window of the FIBA World Cup qualifiers to be held in Qatar and Kazakhstan, respectively.

Also on tap in the 11 a.m. session presented by San Miguel Corp., Tapa King, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation is the second season of the National Basketball League to be discussed by Chairman Celso Mercado and Head of Basketball Operations Edward Aquino.

Sports

Riera U. Mallari, Editor; Reuel Vidal, Assistant Editor sports@thestandard.com.ph; sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019

2 continental teams aim for Olympic bike slots in Tokyo

By Peter Atencio THERE will be two continental teams from the Philippines seeking qualifying slots to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics—the 7-Eleven Cliqq Roadbike Philippines and the Go For Gold Philippine team.

The two start their journey by joining the 5-day LBC-Ronda Pilipinas 2019 slated from Feb. 8 to 12 in the islands of Iloilo, Guimaras, Roxas City and Antique.

After expanding their programs to include the women’s elite and an under-23 junior squad, organizers said they are ready to take on the challenge of getting somebody qualified.

“We hope to send somebody to the Olympics. From there, we will support their participation in national and international meets,” said Philippine Seven Corporation president and CEO Victor Paterno, who talked about their undertaking during Sunday’s celebration of the 10th anniversary of the formation of the Philippine 7-Eleven continental team, which got another backer in Air21, through its chairman Bert Lina.

Lina’s daughter, Donna May, confirmed the support of Air21 to Paterno during a gathering and presentation at the Golden Phoenix Hotel in Pasay City, where they were joined by PhilCycling officials Bong Sual and Caloy Gredonia.

Mark Galedo, a 2013 gold medallist in the individual time trial of the Southeast Asian Games, will be the oldest member of Team A at 33.

There are also plans to send a team to the 2019 Asian Cycling Championships in Uzbekistan this April.

On the other hand, Marcelo Felipe, the best-finishing Filipino rider in the Le Tour de Filipinas 2016, will be part of Team B seeing action in the LBC-Ronda Pilipinas 2019, which is one of three Olympic qualifying competitions that will be staged in the country this year.

The second will be the PRULife Philippine race from May 24 to 26 in Subic Bay, Zanbales.

The Le Tour de Filipinas 2019, which will be held starting June 14, is the third Olympic qualifier.

“How do we qualify? There are many ways to qualify in the road bike event. One way is to join the ACC in Uzbekistan. But only the winners and the podium finishers get outright slots. The next is to get as much points as they can by joining the races here in the Philippines,” said Team 7-Eleven Roadbike Philippines sports director Ric Rodriguez.

Mighty Sports-PH’s sweet-shooting big man Randolph Morris prevents his foes from retrieving the ball from going out of bounds 30th Dubai International Basketball Championships at the Shabab Al Ahli Gymnasium in Dubai. Morris scored 24 points to help Mighty Sports beat Homenetmen of Lebanon, 96-89. Dennis Mallari

Mighty Sports-PH five nails 3rd straight win D

UBAI, United Arab Emirates—Team Mighty Sports-Philippines proved that it is a force to reckon with in the 30th Dubai International Basketball Championships at the Shabab Al Ahli gymnasium here by surpassing its toughest test yet on Sunday night, holding off formidable Homenetmen of Lebanon, 96-89, for its third straight victory.

Sweet-shooting big man Randolph Morris and in-form Justin Brownlee delivered their usual numbers, while FilAm wingman Jeremiah Gray provided immense boost off the bench as Mighty Sports practically secured the top seeding in Group A and proved it is for real in the 10-team tournament.

The 6’10” Morris, armed with a feathery touch from the perimeter, accounted for a team-high-tying 24 points, 15 of them coming in the opening half, while Brownlee sustained his fiery form with his second straight double-double of 19 points and 13 rebounds on top of seven assists and two steals.

Not to be outshone was Gray, who

emerged as the biggest revelation offensively by knocking down 24 points, spiked by three triples, while adding eight rebounds and three assists in what could be considered as his coming out party much to the delight of the raucous Filipino crowd.

But more than the numbers, Mighty Sports coach Charles Tiu admitted he’s more pleased to see how his wards showed steely nerves down the stretch in the face of the Homenetmen’s gritty rally, led by irrepressible guard Walter Hodge, who finished with 42 points.

“We’re a young team and we haven’t been together for so long but I like the composure they shown,” he said. “That’s why

Game Tuesday (Shabab Al Ahli Club, Dubai) 9 p.m. (1 a.m. Monday, Manila time) — Mighty Sports-PH vs Al Wahda-Syria

in some stretches when they (Lebanese) made a run, I just let them play. I want them to grow up probably in this game. And in a tournament like this, we’re gonna face these situations like this so we really have to know how to win. It’s a good test for us.”

The accessories and apparel team backed by SMDC, HealthCube Medical Clinics, Go for Gold and Oriental Game also avenged its 10093 loss to Homenetmen two years ago and put itself in a strong position for a top finish in Group A. Backcourt standouts Jason Brickman (10 points and five assists), Juan Gomez de Liano (11 points), and Roosevelt Adason (eight points and five rebounds) also did their fair share for Mighty Sports, which will take a one-day breather before plunging back to action against Al Wahda-Syria for its final preliminary round match on Tuesday at 9 p.m. (1 a.m.

Wednesday, Manila time).

Blue Eaglets near incentive KAI Sotto came up with a doubledouble effort as the defending champion Ateneo Blue Eaglets swamped the La Salle Zobel Junior Archers, 88-59, Sunday, and moved closer to a second twice-to-beat incentive in the Final Four.

Sotto drilled in 26 points and 20 rebounds for the Blue Eaglets, who picked up their 10th triumph in 13 matches in the 81st University Athletic Association of the Philippines Junior Basketball tournament at the Arena in San Juan.

The 7’1” Sotto started flexing his muscles in the third period as the Blue Eaglets took charge with a decisive 13-0 run.

With the Junior Archers threatening, 35-36, Ian Espinosa and Sotto put Ateneo out of reach with their inside shots.

The Blue Eaglets took a 49-35 spread in the last 5:20, behind Sotto’s short jumper.

The Junior Archers, who got 14 points from Ivan Cudiamat, dropped to sixth at 4-9.

Earlier, the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Cubs played a spoiler’s role in bringing down the Far Eastern University-Diliman Tamaraws, 86-83.

The Tiger Cubs broke an 83-all deadlock off a jumper from Jomar Amador and Irvin Manabat in the dying seconds.

This put the Baby Tamaraws in a share of third and fourth spot with the Adamson Falcons on similar 9-4 slates, with still a game left going into their final game in the elimination round.

Mark Nonoy fired 24 points for UST, while John Lina had 22. On the other hand, Renz Alforque shot 26 for FEU. Peter Atencio

JAPAN CUP. Officials of the Philippine Racing Commission welcomed to the country Japan Racing Association

representatives Hiroyuki Koezuka (left) and Teruhisa Nishiyama (3rd from left) for the staging of the 2019 Japan Cup at the Metro Turf in Malvar, Batangas. The Japanese officials are joined here by Chairman Andrew A. Sanchez (2nd from left), Commissioners Lyndon Guce (4th from left) and Victor Tantoco (5th from left) and Executive Director Andrew M. Buencamino.

Perpetual to parade 6 new players in PBA D-League UNIVERSITY of Perpetual Help System Dalta will parade its six new players as well as the return of veteran guard Kieth Pido as it sees action in the PBA D-League unfurling on February 14 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Ben Adamos, a transferee from reigning NCAA champion San Beda, is the biggest name among the new batch of recruits by the Altas and should be tasked to carry the load in Season 95 after Prince Eze, last year’s MVP, played his last year.

Also suiting up for UPHSD are transferees Lean Martel and Lele Guizzani from San Beda, James Labarda from Arellano, Jeffer Egan from Southern PH College in Cagayan de Oro, Ramlee Lanoy from St. Francis of Assisi and Jboy Solis from Olivarez.

Pido, the Altas’ starting guard, who suffered an ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tear last year that forced him to sit out the whole of Season 94, will make his much-awaited return and should provide the team the needed experience as they aim to surpass their Final Four finish a season back.

Pido and the new recruits will join holdovers Edgar Charcos, Anton Tamayo, Tonton Peralta, Jelo Razon, Kim Aurin and Jerome Pacia.

“We have six new faces in the team and also Pido is back so the D-League will be an important part in our preparation and we will see there how the new and old players will mesh,” said UPHSD coach Frankie Lim, who has steered the Altas to the Final Four on his first season with the team.

On top of that, Lim also tapped Ed Cordero, his former assistant when the former was still with San Beda, and son Melo Lim to join his coaching staff that also includes Myk Saguiguit, Ferdinand Ali Ali and Gerard Dizon.

UPHSD owner Tony Tamayo, meanwhile, bared plans of the team training abroad from April to May to further strengthen the squad.

“The school is fully supportive of coach Frankie and the whole team with hopes of a strong performance in the next NCAA season,” said Tamayo.

Gabbalo, Penalosa highlight ESPN5 boxing ESPN5 continues to support the emerging local boxing scene with two new events this Feb. 9 and 16.

Admission is FREE for both events, and will be aired live on 5 and via livestream on ESPN5.com.

On Feb. 9, at the Midas Hotel and Casino, ESPN5 and Sanman Promotions will showcase Interim WBA World Bantamweight Champion Reymart ‘Assassin’ Gaballo (20-0-0, 17KOs) as he faces off against Japanese prospect Yuya Nakamura (9-21, 7KOs), while Romero ‘Ruthless’ Duno (18-1-0, 14KOs) and India’s Kuldeep Dhanda (7-1-0, 1KO) will square off for the vacant World Boxing Association Asian Lightweight Title. The

entertaining Dave ‘Dobermann’ Apolinario (9-0-0, 6KOs) will also look to continue his streak against Ramshane Sarguilla.

Gates open at 5pm, and the fight will be aired 730pm.

Both fighters are more than ready to fight for their countrymen, with Sanman Promotions CEO Jim Claude Manangquil praising Gaballo’s work ethic.

“Gaballo is hardworking… no doubt he is in line to be the Philippines’ next world champion.”

On Feb. 16, at the SM North Skydome, ESPN5 and Gerrypens Promotions will feature Dave ‘Hunter’ Peñalosa (14-0-0, 10KOs) in his first title match as he goes up against Mexico’s Marcos Cardenas (19-6-1, 15KOs) for

the World Boxing Organization’s Oriental 126-lb belt. Former world champion Johnriel Casimero (25-4-1, 16KOs) returns to face Japan’s Kenya Yamashita (13-40, 10KOs), while knockout artist Jammes Martin (11-0-0, 10KOs) matches up with Thailand’s Petchchorhae Kokietgym (17-2-0, 8KOs), and Carlo Peñalosa (13-10, 6Kos) will fight another Thai boxer, Watana Phenbaan (18-5-0, 11Kos). Gates open at 7pm, and will air live starting at 9 p.m.

The Peñalosa camp notes the signature knockout power of their fighters, claiming that they look to extend their streak of early-round finishes from the ESPN5 and Gerrypens event last September 2018.

ESPN5’s commitment to

Philippine boxing remains steadfast. “This is more than the search for the next worldwide boxing icon,” TV5 President Chot Reyes shares. “We have different boxing stables around the country producing top talent that can go up against the best in the world. We want the whole country to support our greatest warriors, and with ESPN5 broadcasting the fights live on free TV and digital, we not only give them a global stage—we put the whole world on alert.”

IN BRIEF TV5’s sports website page views hit 40m TV5 Network Inc. said its online sports website posted 40 million page views a month due to more local and international sports content.

ESPN5 and e-Sports vice president Lloyd Dennis Manaloto said ESPN5.com had a total 1.8 million active users since its launching in January 2018.

“Our strongest content would probably be NBA, PBA and ESPN’s senior NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski,” he added.

TV5 in October 2017 signed long-term agreement with ESPN to reposition itself into a sports and news network.

Under the partnership, TV5’s “Sports 5” will be rebranded as “ESPN5,” encompassing all sports coverage on TV5.

In addition, ESPN will license to TV5 over 2,500 hours of additional programming a year from its portfolio of sports rights, original programming and studio programs.

ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC Inc., an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Co., while Hearst Corp. holds a 20-percent interest in the US-based global cable and satellite sports television channel. Darwin G. Amojelar

Business

Skyway’s ‘RFID-only’ scheme not yet final SKYWAY Operations and Maintenance Corp., operator of the Skyway system, said the plan to designate the elevated section of the Skyway as “RFID-only” is still being reviewed and will only be implemented upon approval by the Toll Regulatory Board.

Somco said the plan was expected to result in faster and more efficient throughput at elevated toll plazas, which in turn will mean less congestion at onramps and roads leading to the elevated Skyway.

The company appealed to the motoring public to embrace change for the better.

“It only takes six seconds for vehicles with RFID to cross the toll barrier while cash transactions take about 21 seconds.

This means that 3 vehicles could pass in the RFID lane before one could finish paying at the cash lane,” said Somco president Manuel Bonoan.

“The objective is to have the skyway elevated exclusive to RFID users to provide motorists the convenience they are paying a premium for,” he added.

RFID lanes will also be maintained at the at-grade section. Darwin G. Amojelar

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019

B1

By Othel V. Campos

GO LOKAL AWARD. The Go Lokal! team, led by DTI-Trade and Investments Promotion Group assistant secretary Rosvi Gaetos (third from right) and former TIPG Undersecretary Nora Terrado (fourth from right), receives the ‘Most Innovative Idea Award’ at the SPRints 2017 Huwarang DTI on Jan. 31, 2019 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. The SPRInts or ‘System for Performance, Rewards and Incentives’ is an annual search for top performing DTI executives and employees whose notable contributions led to the agency’s improved work conditions and services. With Gaetos and Terrado are (from left) planning management service officer-in-charge Robert Alvin Arceo, management services group undersecretary Ireneo Vizmonte, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, product specialist Stanly Ruiz, Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion assistant director Marievic Bonoan, consultant Leon Flores and human resource and administrative service director Joel Cruz.

BDO Unibank raises P35b in biggest peso bond issue

By Julito G. Rada

B

DO UNIBANK Inc., the country’s largest lender in terms of assets controlled by the Sy family, raised P35 billion in what is considered the largest peso bond issuance by a Philippine bank.

BDO said proceeds from the bond issuance aimed to diversify its funding sources and support business expansion. The issuance of fixed-rate bonds followed a quick book-building process.

“The bonds have a tenor of 1.5 years and bear a coupon rate of 6.42 percent, representing a 25 bps [basis points] spread over the Bloomberg Valuation Service or BVAL benchmark. Interest will be paid quarterly, calculated on a 30/360 count basis. The bonds will be issued on Feb. 11, 2019,” it said.

“The bond issuance is part of BDO’s efforts to diversify its funding sources and support its business expansion, and is a component of an approved P100-

billion bond program announced in August last year,” BDO said.

BDO said the issuance marked another significant milestone as it represented the largest-ever single peso bond issuance by a Philippine bank.

It followed the bank’s $150-million Green Bond in 2018, its $1.2-billion stock rights offering in 2017 and its $700-million senior note issuance also in 2017, which was considered the largest Reg S dollar issuance by a Philippine bank.

Standard Chartered Bank acted as the sole arranger and bookrunner for the latest issue, while BDO Capital & Investment Corp., BDO Private Bank Inc. and BDO Unibank Inc. served as

the selling agents.

BDO is a full-service universal bank which provides a wide range of corporate and retail banking services. These services include traditional loan and deposit products, as well as treasury, trust and wealth advisory, investment banking, private banking, rural banking, cash management, leasing and finance, remittance, credit card services and insurance and stock brokerage services.

BDO has one of the largest distribution networks, with more than 1,200 operating branches and over 4,000 ATMs nationwide. It also has fullservice branches in Hong Kong and Singapore as well as 23 overseas remittance and representative offices in Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East.

BDO ranked as the largest bank in terms of total assets, loans, deposits and trust funds under management based on published statements of condition as of Sept. 30, 2018.

A321NEO ARRIVAL. Cebu

DOTr asks Cavite to clarify Sangley airport proposal

Pacific receives its first Airbus A321neo as a part of its fleet expansion. The lowcost carrier placed an order for 32 A321neo aircraft, each with a capacity of 236 seats. Shown during a ceremonial toast in Makati City are (from left) France Ambassador to the Philippines Nicolas Galey, Cebu Pacific president and chief executive Lance Gokongwei, Transportation Undersecretary for aviation and airports Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo and Airbus Group executive vice president for sales in Asia Jean Francois Laval.

Ey Acasio

By Darwin G. Amojelar THE Department of Transportation wants a firm direction from the provincial government of Cavite on its proposal to build an international airport in Sangley Point, Cavite.

“It has been in Neda [National Economic and Development Authority].

[But] I’m not aware of its completeness.

They still have requirements to prepare,” Transportation Undersecretary for aviation Manuel Antonio Tamayo said when asked about the update on the proposal of the Cavite government to build Sangley International Airport.

“They still lack documents. What is their direction? Who is the proponent? Is it the LGU? Is it the national government? I don’t think it’s going to be national government nor DOTr because they are the main proponent and we don’t have the intention as far as the DOTr is concerned,” he said.

Earlier reports indicated that the Cavite provincial government submitted to Neda the full feasibility study for the project on Dec. 17, 2018.

The Sangley International Airport is expected to cost more than P500 billion.

The legal department of DOTr earlier issued a memorandum on June 15 last year, asking the department to refrain from signing an agreement with the Cavite provincial government on the proposed international airport.

The legal department cited the lack of technical and financial capability of the Cavite provincial government to implement an international airport development project.

business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

DTI mulls over safeguard duty to protect local poultry raisers

Palawan cooperative probes power outages PALAWAN Electric Cooperative is addressing its power outages following the approval of its capital expenditure program.

Paleco project supervisor and acting general manager Nelson Lalas said in his report to the National Electrification Administration he met with three power producers―DMCI Power Corp., Delta P Inc. and Palawan Power Generation Inc., as well as the National Power Corp.-Small Power Utility Group―to discuss reliable supply. “[We discussed] problems about the dispatch and as regards the protocol. I also emphasized during that meeting that the power interruption is not only [a problem of] Paleco but theirs as well,” Lalas said.

Lalas conducted an initial assessment of the current power situation in Palawan.

He attributed the frequent power outages to a number of factors, including failures in generation, transmission and distribution systems. Alena Mae S. Flores

Ray S. Eñano, Editor Roderick T. dela Cruz, Assistant Editor

Meralco customers face higher generation charges in February

By Alena Mae S. Flores CUSTOMERS of power retailer Manila Electric Co. face higher generation charges this month following the normalization of the capacity fees and higher outages in January.

“It will be higher than January. Similar to the past two or three years, after the generation charge reduction in January, there’s always normalization in February,” said Meralco head of utility economics Lawrence Fernandez.

He said for January, Meralco’s power rates declined because of the reduced capacity fees for the outage allowance from the power generators.

“If power plants do not use their outage allowance for the year, then

by December they charge us lower or

with no capacity fees, and that leads to the lower generation charge in January. Since we have a new calendar year starting January, then the capacity fees go back to normal and that will be reflected in the January generation charge,” he said.

Fernandez said Meralco also noticed that many power plants went on outage in the second half of January, resulting in higher prices at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market.

“More than 3,300 MW [megawatts] of capacity went on outage, both forced outage and due to scheduled outages.

We noticed that the spot market prices responded accordingly, meaning it went up. That might also affect the generation charge in February,” he said.

Meralco reported on January that

its overall electricity rates declined P0.3418 per kilowatt-hour, or equivalent to a decrease of P68 in the total monthly bill of a typical household consuming 200 kWh. Meralco’s January rates decreased to P9.8385 per kWh in January from P10.1803 per kWh in December.

The generation charge for January went down to P4.9119 per kWh, a decrease of P0.4184 per kWh from P5.3303 per kWh in December.

Meanwhile, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III approved a revenue regulation reducing by almost half the 25to 32-percent creditable withholding tax on the refund due to customers of Meralco to a flat 15 percent as provided under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law.

THE Trade Department plans to coordinate with the Agriculture Department in imposing safeguard measures to protect local poultry growers from imports.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said poultry producers raised concerns over the oversupply of dressed chicken in the domestic market that resulted in low prices.

“We are supportive that production from their end was good, better even. But we have to help them address the problem of oversupply,” he said.

Retail prices of dressed chicken fell by as much as 32 percent to P92 to P95 per kilogram from P130 to P140 s kilo last year.

“Because of this, we’re double checking if there is a need to reimpose special safeguard measures on chicken imports,” Lopez said.

He said there might be a need to restrict the entry of imported chicken until prices of local poultry stabilized to profitable levels for local producers.

Lopez said small and medium scale chicken raisers as well as big poultry producers and integrators were having problems with oversupply.

Government data showed that poultry production rose 7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2018 and accounted for 16.2 percent of total agricultural output.

Full-year poultry data showed that the poultry subsector expanded 5.8 percent in 2018.

The Trade Department vowed to make the necessary steps to prevent the sector from incurring production losses amid the persisting oversupply.

“We are in constant coordination with the Agriculture Department for any assistance they might need.

We have the National Coordinating Council that constantly monitors prices of basic and prime commodities and we install intervention measure once we see that the prices already impact on consumers and producers,” Lopez said.

Tobacco harm reduction offers lessons to Asia SUCCESS stories in tobacco harm reduction can serve as “templates” that other Asia Pacific countries could adopt to stem the smoking epidemic in the region.

“The Philippines and other countries in the region would do well to emulate the successful tobacco harm reduction approaches presented during the 2nd Asia Harm Reduction Forum held in Makati City last year,” said Peter Paul Dator, president of The Vapers Philippines.

“These success stories in tobacco harm reduction show that we don’t have to settle for the grossly ineffective ‘quit or die’ approach. Significantly less harmful products such as e-cigarettes or vapes and other heated products do have an important complementary role to play in current tobacco control efforts,” said Joey Dulay, president of the Philippine E-Cigarette Industry Association.

“Smoking prevalence in New Zealand is now down to 15.7 percent nationwide, but there are inequities in tobacco control,” according to Dr. Marewa Glover, director of the Centre of Research Excellence: Indigenous Sovereignty & Smoking.

“The Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, have the highest smoking prevalence among cultural groups at 35 percent. This was down from 54 percent in 1993, which means the reduction of Maori smoking prevalence has been very slow at about 1 percent per year,” said Glover, speaking during the 2nd Asia Harm Reduction Forum in Makati City on Nov. 15, 2018.

The New Zealand government was previously opposed to e-cigarettes and other reduced-risk products. Its position has changed recently. Its Ministry of Health now believes that vaping products have the potential to make a contribution to New Zealand’s Smokefree 2025 goal and could disrupt the significant inequities that impact the Māori.

B2

Business

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market declines on profit taking T HE stock market fell Monday on profit taking led by select blue chips, ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday today and the release of the inflation rate for January.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index dropped 74.68 points, or 0.9 percent, to 8,069.48 on a value turnover of P7.3 billion. Gainers, however, beat losers, 124 to 83, with 47 issues unchanged.

Premiere Horizon Alliance Corp., a speculative holding company with interests in mining and property development, sank 17.9 percent to P1.33, while Globe Telecom Inc., the second-biggest telecommunications firm, lost 1.9 percent to P2,030.

SM Investments Corp. of the Sy

Group slipped 1.8 percent to P997, but Zeus Holdings Inc., a speculative mining company, jumped 36.2 percent to P0.47.

Asia’s major markets, meanwhile, mostly rose Monday as investors were cheered by a blockbuster US jobs report last week, while trade was thin owing to the three-day Lunar New Year break.

Expectations that the Federal Reserve will take its foot off the gas in raising interest rates and optimism that China and the United States will eventually hammer out a deal to resolve their long-running trade war were also providing support.

With most of the region closed this week for an extended holiday there are few catalysts to drive business, though dealers took heart from Friday’s strong US non-farm payrolls numbers.

The world’s biggest economy added 304,000 new posts in January, almost double what was expected and the strongest reading for almost a year, while

growth in pay held steady above inflation.

All three main indexes on Wall Street ended with gains and that filtered through to Asia.

Hong Kong ended 0.2 percent higher and Tokyo climbed 0.5 percent, with Sony plunging more than eight percent after lowering its annual sales forecast on Friday and flagging weak profits in its PlayStation business.

Sydney also rose 0.5 percent though Singapore dipped 0.1 percent.

Bangkok edged up but there were losses in Jakarta, Wellington and Mumbai.

Shanghai, Seoul, Taipei and several other markets were closed for the holidays.

Peter Wilmshurst, a portfolio manager at Templeton Global Equities in Melbourne, said 2019 could see a recovery in equities.

“If we see some sort of inflection in economic growth stabilizing, then people can have more confidence in earn-

ings,” he told Bloomberg TV. The plunge in prices last year “leaves the valuations of many stocks around the world looking pretty interesting to us, particularly outside the US.” On currency markets the dollar rose, though observers pointed out that the rally in the greenback from the jobs data was limited as dealers focus on the Fed’s slower pace of rate hikes.

The Nikkei 225 index closed up 0.46 percent, or 95.38 points, at 20,883.77, while the broader Topix index advanced 1.07 percent, or 16.70 points, to end at 1,581.33.

That was despite a plunge in the stock of electronics giant Sony, which dropped more than eight percent after lowering its annual sales forecast.

Investors are closely watching earnings reports due this week, including SoftBank Corp. on Tuesday and SoftBank Group and Toyota on Wednesday, analysts said. With AFP

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2019

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

FINANCIALS 59.4 5,100 91.4 1,093,320 2.17 20,000 138.5 1,401,220 1.41 61,000 28.35 134,600 7.59 200 17.16 91,300 13 4,015,700 4.79 41,000 785 380 0.47 4,220,000 83.9 1,984,480 1.16 2,405,000 14.1 300,700 45.35 344,800 186.8 7,580 122 10 59 7,010 26.1 109,400 174.8 392,850 64.55 620,250 1.17 20,000

303,015 99,924,199 43,400 194,514,173 86,010 3,812,915 1,409 1,561,302 51,911,270 193,230 298,100 2,062,050 166,568,785 2,761,580 4,257,944 15,681,535 1,407,544 1,220 412,920.50 2,855,165 68,991,761 40,236,730.50 23,400

207,900 -36,342,463.50 10,850 -28,872,825 -2,249,910 104,714.00 -13,019,282 78,300 -6,751,038 -12,760 -1,415,616 -756,700 -486,030 -67,860 -26,217,345 -6,003,608.50 -

37.85 16.3 1.04 1.33 0.245 2.6 15.6 30 16.52 40 1.78 6.3 6.7 11.5 16 8.18 7.62 1.57 20.2 73.8 2.85 9.6 13.06 1.65 315 53.8 4.5 3.2 9.55 27.1 12.7 18.26 364 0.171 5.88 1.37 3.6 7.49 6.04 8.8 1.34 10.82 47.95 4.8 1.86 2.78 1.35 13 96.1 6.23 0.13 0.93 149.2 2.45 1.75 16 1.42

INDUSTRIAL 37.85 570,100 16.5 911,400 1.07 9,786,000 1.38 243,000 0.26 11,560,000 2.65 22,441,000 15.78 2,564,200 30 90,100 16.94 9,600 40 600 1.79 35,000 6.3 3,000 6.8 62,000 11.62 3,121,300 16.08 622,100 8.21 1,475,100 7.68 246,400 1.57 7,000 20.35 845,600 74 30,980 2.99 26,686,000 10.1 6,251,900 13.4 1,385,900 1.73 116,000 315 347,870 53.8 100 4.54 16,000 3.28 10,000 9.6 13,828,800 27.25 265,000 12.78 683,600 18.32 5,246,300 364 78,810 0.184 940,000 5.89 20,700 1.38 3,387,000 3.72 18,000 7.49 3,132,900 6.04 312,800 8.8 3,200 1.34 24,805,000 10.82 84,500 48.05 466,400 4.8 3,214,000 2.01 2,272,000 2.78 47,000 1.37 386,000 13.02 160,700 98.5 337,140 6.32 96,200 0.13 640,000 0.97 265,000 151 496,890 2.68 178,000 1.77 5,253,000 16 600 1.49 3,489,000

21,743,315 14,976,844 10,407,760 325,730 2,970,380 59,562,720 40,862,606 2,712,710 162,318 24,010 62,510 18,930 420,315 36,214,940 10,008,122 12,130,505 1,894,301 10,990 17,300,980 2,290,994 78,635,420 62,721,162 18,500,260 196,680 110,516,296 5,380 72,460 32,380 132,532,096 7,234,455 8,803,724 96,112,530 28,796,416 165,260 122,040 4,682,890 65,210 23,614,462 1,895,038 28,471 33,581,400 921,046 22,505,735 15,427,350 4,402,550 130,660 532,450 2,093,460 33,031,103 607,580 83,200 252,220 74,628,392 447,240 9,385,880 9,600 5,176,150

-13,154,075 2,686,518 16,070 1,350 -6,269,470 -480,984 -3,090 53,560 -9,468,614 8,480,614 -1,976,259.00 -56,050 3,333,080 -158,946 -1,094,540 13,554,469 2,713,404 27,670,764 60,318,720 36,395 -2,101,472 15,564,400 -15,744,740 -1,857,390.00 3,470,968 5,445 -1,031,040 -4,788,505 -13,958,400 -7,630 1,400,752 -2,932,118.50 6,260 -49,470 31,719,679 179,400 184,690

0.75 64.95 14.18 0.83 6.54 31.25 1.45 1.47 939.5 7.47 12.78 13.3 5 0.241 1,120 6.7 66.25 0.75 5.51 15.66 0.59 4.93 3.39 0.039 1.21 2.85 167.9 2.28 1,014 1.37 463 280 0.275 0.485

0.67 62.1 13.8 0.8 6.54 28.7 1.41 1.41 930.5 7.42 12.48 13 5 0.224 1,080 6.01 65.7 0.59 5.39 15.42 0.55 4.85 2.81 0.038 1.15 2.63 166.5 2.28 992 1.37 440 265 0.25 0.36

HOLDING FIRMS 0.75 98,917,000 62.3 932,230 13.8 2,792,400 0.83 474,000 6.54 100 31.1 970,500 1.42 8,711,000 1.45 2,295,000 935.5 113,930 7.44 345,900 12.58 1,189,900 13.02 336,000 5 7,000 0.228 1,010,000 1,120 52,725 6.02 128,400 66 793,980 0.68 7,882,000 5.39 2,054,400 15.48 2,831,800 0.58 2,855,000 4.89 9,349,000 2.81 22,000 0.039 13,600,000 1.15 165,000 2.71 6,414,000 166.8 337,040 2.28 4,000 997 225,610 1.37 17,000 440 450 280 13,030 0.265 17,840,000 0.47 263,400,000

70,786,990 58,357,834 38,911,996 387,940 654 29,381,785 12,418,380 3,308,200 106,412,030 2,574,436 14,991,798 4,415,714 35,000 231,260 58,562,365 806,007 52,399,853.50 5,411,530 11,212,026 43,859,554 1,594,200 45,663,980 66,200 522,100 189,980 17,606,040 56,203,942 9,120 225,193,660 23,290 202,226 3,617,938 4,685,650 114,833,850

-332,110.00 -28,132,358 -12,382,280 -292,015 199,940 -18,646,910 239,675 -2,708,754 -20,234 951,500 17,021,055.50 1,523,452 -7,954,930 415,800 15,723,010 186,630 -4,726,606 -13,364,857.50 -23,290 -60,190 -2,758,142 -756,050

10.6 0.82 10.98 1.78 0.89 44.95 2.57 4.2 6.3 0.5 0.82 0.26 0.47 9.78 22.4 0.5 0.13 1.6 1.22 5.27 0.445 0.49 2.35 0.45 3.6 50 22.85 1.98

10.06 0.8 10.52 1.7 0.86 44.55 2.49 4.15 6.1 0.48 0.82 0.25 0.38 9.32 21.55 0.5 0.129 1.54 1.2 5.21 0.435 0.455 2.24 0.425 3.2 47.95 22.2 1.95

22,598,656 203,390 242,014 1,200,590 1,227,420 110,899,995 11,919,530 1,161,020 551,742 6,435,300 13,940 1,503,200 9,257,800 15,714,507 43,849,955 25,500 41,510 32,696,850 1,305,120 42,671,264 4,244,350 1,391,250 8,296,940 729,000 11,363,360 77,560 17,541,500 928,780

816,588 42,080 -257,350 -147,060 57,877,960 501,140 -96,370 544,314 -1,016,700 204,000 -110,000 2,616,216 4,409,450 10,074,780 -26,620 16,037,058 421,400 432,000 53,860 -1,678,250 2,387,540 -

NAME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

ASIA UNITED BANK PH ISLANDS BDO LEASING BDO UNIBANK BRIGHT KINDLE CHINABANK CITYSTATE BANK COL FINANCIAL EAST WEST BANK FERRONOUX HLDG MANULIFE MEDCO HLDG METROBANK NTL REINSURANCE PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PHIL STOCK EXCH PHILTRUST PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK VANTAGE

59.4 91.5 2.17 139 1.41 28.5 6.5 17.06 12.8 4.72 785 0.46 84.1 1.13 14.2 45.45 185 122 59 26.1 181.9 65.75 1.17

59.45 92 2.17 140.5 1.41 28.5 7.59 17.16 13.14 4.79 785 0.52 84.1 1.16 14.24 45.6 186.8 122 59 26.1 181.9 65.8 1.17

59.4 91.25 2.17 138.1 1.41 28.25 6.5 17.06 12.68 4.7 783 0.45 83.7 1.09 14.1 45.35 183 122 58.7 26.05 174.5 64.5 1.17

ABOITIZ POWER AGRINURTURE ALLIANCE SELECT ALSONS CONS BASIC ENERGY CEMEX HLDG CENTURY FOOD CIRTEK HLDG CNTRL AZUCARERA CONCEPCION CROWN ASIA DAVINCI CAPITAL DEL MONTE DNL INDUS EAGLE CEMENT EEI CORP EMPERADOR EUROMED FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG GREENERGY HOLCIM INTEGRATED MICR IONICS JOLLIBEE LIBERTY FLOUR LMG CHEMICALS MABUHAY VINYL MACAY HLDG MANILA WATER MAXS GROUP MEGAWIDE MERALCO MG HLDG PANASONIC PEPSI COLA PETROENERGY PETRON PH RESORTS GRP PHINMA PHINMA ENERGY PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL RFM CORP ROXAS AND CO ROXAS HLDG SFA SEMICON SHAKEYS PIZZA SMC FOODANDBEV SPC POWER SWIFT FOODS TKC METALS UNIV ROBINA VICTORIAS VITARICH VIVANT VULCAN INDL

39.2 16.4 1.04 1.38 0.255 2.75 15.6 30.9 16.94 40.05 1.78 6.4 6.7 11.7 16.04 8.24 7.62 1.57 20.75 73.8 2.92 9.8 13.06 1.71 318 53.8 4.5 3.2 9.55 27.1 12.7 18.36 370.6 0.172 5.88 1.4 3.6 7.59 6.05 8.9 1.36 10.82 48.2 4.81 1.9 2.78 1.38 13 96.5 6.36 0.13 0.94 150 2.69 1.82 16 1.47

39.35 16.54 1.08 1.38 0.26 2.77 16 30.9 16.94 40.05 1.79 6.4 6.98 11.7 16.12 8.28 7.74 1.57 20.85 74.4 3.07 10.5 13.44 1.73 320 53.8 4.54 3.28 10.2 27.45 13 18.36 370.8 0.184 6.2 1.4 3.72 7.59 6.11 9 1.38 10.96 48.7 4.88 2.01 2.78 1.41 13.1 98.7 6.42 0.13 0.97 151 2.69 1.82 16 1.53

ABACORE CAPITAL ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANGLO PHIL HLDG ANSCOR ASIABEST GROUP ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B AYALA CORP COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV FJ PRINCE A FORUM PACIFIC GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV MJC INVESTMENTS PACIFICA PRIME MEDIA PRIME ORION SAN MIGUEL CORP SEAFRONT RES SM INVESTMENTS SOLID GROUP SYNERGY GRID TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

0.67 64 13.9 0.8 6.54 28.8 1.45 1.47 939.5 7.44 12.78 13.28 5 0.224 1,106 6.68 65.9 0.62 5.42 15.6 0.57 4.89 3.39 0.038 1.21 2.65 166.5 2.28 1,012 1.37 440.2 274 0.26 0.39

8990 HLDG A BROWN ANCHOR LAND ARANETA PROP ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND BELLE CORP CEB LANDMASTERS CEBU HLDG CENTURY PROP CITY AND LAND CROWN EQUITIES CYBER BAY DM WENCESLAO DOUBLEDRAGON EMPIRE EAST EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE MEGAWORLD MRC ALLIED PHIL ESTATES PHIL INFRADEV PHIL REALTY PRIMEX CORP PTFC REDEV CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL

10.06 0.82 10.54 1.7 0.89 44.55 2.54 4.2 6.29 0.5 0.82 0.255 0.38 9.48 21.55 0.5 0.129 1.56 1.2 5.26 0.445 0.47 2.3 0.425 3.4 47.95 22.35 1.98

VOLUME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND STARMALLS SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND

3.13 39.2 1.45 5.95 0.72 5.95

3.13 39.5 1.48 6.08 0.73 6.1

3.12 38.5 1.42 5.88 0.72 5.87

3.13 38.5 1.46 6.03 0.73 6.1

19,000 2,192,400 1,328,000 286,600 31,000 3,397,500

59,400 84,679,645 1,921,760 1,713,585 22,560 20,493,692

8,074,960 47,780 -2,675,692

2GO GROUP ABS CBN ACESITE HOTEL APC GROUP APOLLO GLOBAL ASIAN TERMINALS BERJAYA BLOOMBERRY BOULEVARD HLDG CEBU AIR CHELSEA DFNN INC EASYCALL FAR EASTERN U GLOBE TELECOM GMA NETWORK GOLDEN BRIA HARBOR STAR IMPERIAL INTL CONTAINER IPEOPLE IPM HLDG ISLAND INFO ISM COMM JACKSTONES LBC EXPRESS LEISURE AND RES LORENZO SHIPPNG MACROASIA MANILA BULLETIN MANILA JOCKEY METRO RETAIL METROALLIANCE A MLA BRDCASTING NOW CORP PACIFIC ONLINE PAL HLDG PAXYS PHIL SEVEN CORP PHILWEB PLDT PREMIUM LEISURE PRMIERE HORIZON PUREGOLD ROBINSONS RTL SBS PHIL CORP SSI GROUP STI HLDG TRANSPACIFIC BR TRAVELLERS WATERFRONT WILCON DEPOT

13.4 23.35 1.31 0.45 0.042 15.28 3.17 11.1 0.063 88.95 6.57 7.2 15.48 897 2,060 5.77 370 2.88 1.84 109.5 12.4 7.25 0.125 6.47 3.2 14.22 3.28 0.79 20 0.345 4.9 2.54 2.15 13.04 3.4 9.4 13.08 3.55 124 3.05 1,312 0.98 1.6 46.9 90 8.2 2.47 0.82 0.45 5.53 0.71 13.8

13.7 23.5 1.33 0.46 0.042 15.28 3.4 11.52 0.063 89.35 6.6 7.3 15.48 897 2,068 5.79 371 2.9 1.88 110.6 12.5 7.25 0.125 6.47 3.2 14.96 3.35 0.81 20.5 0.345 4.93 2.64 2.15 15 3.4 9.47 13.94 3.6 130 3.05 1,316 0.98 1.6 47.8 90.15 8.3 2.52 0.82 0.455 5.53 0.74 14.2

13.1 23.3 1.31 0.445 0.041 15.28 3.16 11.08 0.06 88.5 6.45 7.16 14.9 896 2,020 5.75 352 2.83 1.84 108.6 11 7.25 0.122 6.15 3.15 14.22 3.26 0.79 19.9 0.34 4.76 2.54 2.05 13.04 3.25 9.4 12.62 3.41 124 2.99 1,290 0.95 1.33 46.75 86.75 8.2 2.43 0.79 0.435 5.5 0.7 13.78

SERVICES 13.7 23.4 1.32 0.455 0.041 15.28 3.39 11.38 0.06 88.85 6.57 7.3 15.04 896 2,030 5.78 360 2.85 1.88 108.6 11.88 7.25 0.124 6.23 3.2 14.96 3.32 0.81 20.45 0.34 4.93 2.6 2.1 15 3.25 9.46 13 3.6 130 3 1,300 0.96 1.33 46.9 89.1 8.2 2.48 0.8 0.44 5.52 0.74 14.2

132,400 396,800 19,000 5,120,000 6,600,000 400 4,568,000 13,427,200 41,250,000 157,270 1,039,800 138,800 109,800 50 54,815 285,000 2,120 1,182,000 13,000 1,324,670 70,400 1,100 3,120,000 10,422,900 71,000 3,800 558,000 60,000 2,920,500 60,000 189,000 1,822,000 256,000 400 2,213,000 6,300 563,700 13,000 6,330 1,466,000 54,355 14,183,000 257,867,000 2,420,600 268,960 3,800 8,337,000 7,463,000 32,400,000 161,300 6,982,000 6,914,900

1,765,376 9,278,045 25,020 2,319,300 273,300 6,112 14,937,870 152,429,112 2,529,900 13,982,289.50 6,779,893 1,001,066 1,655,230 44,820 111,328,350 1,646,424 781,570 3,378,660 24,040 145,325,298 851,828 7,975 385,930 65,254,465 225,670 56,256 1,851,690 48,400 59,317,711 20,550 903,250 4,760,170 530,010 5,804 7,285,780 59,527 7,436,878 45,450 795,805 4,411,610 70,729,860 13,775,060 370,981,180 114,004,235 23,971,591.50 31,180 20,689,650 5,963,070 14,413,600 889,726 5,046,460 95,953,818

-22,304 -44,530 91,385,752 -5,127,882 984,640 -28,688 26,880 -82,783,700 -5,692,237 -189,743 43,160 14,537,125 1,244,490 -63,190 3,900 689,125 -604,590 1,433,115 1,716,990 5,336,440 20,939,220 634,434 -5,477,410 -727,100 -104,150 -239,241 41,210,022

ABRA MINING APEX MINING ATLAS MINING ATOK CENTURY PEAK COAL ASIA HLDG DIZON MINES FERRONICKEL GEOGRACE LEPANTO A LEPANTO B MANILA MINING A MANILA MINING B MARCVENTURES NICKEL ASIA NIHAO OMICO CORP ORNTL PENINSULA ORNTL PETROL A ORNTL PETROL B PHILODRILL PHINMA PETRO PX MINING PXP ENERGY SEMIRARA MINING UNITED PARAGON

0.0022 1.55 2.89 13.5 2.07 0.3 7.64 1.54 0.215 0.135 0.136 0.0075 0.0084 1.08 2.52 1.08 0.7 0.98 0.013 0.014 0.012 3.93 4.17 14.6 23.6 0.0071

0.0022 1.59 2.95 13.76 2.1 0.33 8.39 1.56 0.325 0.135 0.136 0.008 0.0084 1.1 2.65 1.45 0.7 1.05 0.013 0.014 0.012 3.93 4.23 14.7 23.85 0.0074

0.0021 1.54 2.89 13 2.06 0.3 7.6 1.5 0.215 0.129 0.132 0.0075 0.0079 1.04 2.52 1.04 0.66 0.98 0.012 0.012 0.012 3.84 4.17 14.28 23.5 0.0071

MINING & OIL 0.0021 418,000,000 1.59 1,714,000 2.95 695,000 13.5 2,200 2.1 613,000 0.31 2,860,000 8.22 176,100 1.56 2,167,000 0.325 46,200,000 0.132 6,740,000 0.132 370,000 0.008 18,000,000 0.0079 3,000,000 1.08 919,000 2.62 6,655,000 1.28 11,539,000 0.67 646,000 1.04 4,414,000 0.013 80,100,000 0.013 1,197,200,000 0.012 2,700,000 3.85 163,000 4.23 1,513,000 14.28 2,046,900 23.6 1,361,500 0.0074 14,000,000

877,900 2,688,060 2,028,440 29,526 1,277,720 903,450 1,420,389 3,325,620 14,132,140 881,550 49,380 140,900 24,200 983,670 17,334,440 14,553,460 437,920 4,519,320 1,038,000 16,735,100 32,400 630,730 6,337,370 29,370,702 32,141,585 101,300

224,700 -664,440 -15,450 25,060 -416,750 9,709,850.00 -117,300.00 66,050 1,200 -12,980 493,542 -14,016,465 72,000

ABS HLDG PDR AC PREF B1 AC PREF B2 ALCO PREF B DD PREF FGEN PREF G GMA HLDG PDR GTCAP PREF A GTCAP PREF B HOUSE PREF A LR PREF MWIDE PREF PCOR PREF 2A SFI PREF SMC FB PREF 2 SMC PREF 2B SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2D SMC PREF 2E SMC PREF 2F SMC PREF 2G SMC PREF 2H SMC PREF 2I

20.85 472 491 101.6 98.5 103.5 5.75 930 919 96 1 101.6 965 1.8 992 75.05 76.5 73.8 73.95 74.9 73 72.6 73.5

20.85 479 491.2 101.6 98.5 103.5 5.75 930 919 96 1 101.6 965 1.8 992 75.15 76.5 73.85 73.95 75 73 72.6 73.5

20.2 472 491 101.6 97.5 103.5 5.74 930 900 95.5 0.99 101.5 962 1.8 992 75.05 76.5 73.8 73.95 74.9 73 72.6 73.5

PREFERRED 20.6 318,900 479 590 491 16,890 101.6 150 97.5 1,250 103.5 1,650 5.74 133,400 930 10 900 220 95.5 650 1 392,000 101.5 2,000 962 50 1.8 16,000 992 20 75.15 6,490 76.5 28,140 73.85 1,890 73.95 100 75 50,000 73 48,800 72.6 200 73.5 3,030

6,513,980 278,970 8,293,120 15,240 122,940 170,775 765,994 9,300 199,200 62,150 390,420 203,129 48,220 28,800 19,840 487,720.50 2,152,710 139,569.50 7,395 3,746,350 3,562,400 14,520 222,705

-2,772,015 241,122 -

LR WARRANT

1.95

2

1.92

WARRANTS 1.99 135,000

265,070

-

ITALPINAS XURPAS

4.4 1.68

4.7 1.81

4.4 1.68

4.65 1.76

1,540,030 74,452,510

69,200 -1,547,710

FIRST METRO ETF

121

121

119.8

665,836

-59,900

2,000

-

NAME

MS

PROPERTY 10.48 0.82 10.6 1.78 0.86 44.85 2.54 4.18 6.3 0.485 0.82 0.25 0.44 9.68 22 0.5 0.13 1.59 1.21 5.22 0.435 0.49 2.26 0.445 3.2 50 22.5 1.96

2,180,400 251,000 22,900 688,000 1,414,000 2,473,700 4,693,000 278,000 87,600 13,150,000 17,000 5,900,000 21,000,000 1,632,100 1,989,700 51,000 320,000 20,798,000 1,082,000 8,170,200 9,670,000 2,900,000 3,640,000 1,670,000 3,335,000 1,600 783,300 474,000

USD TECH B2

1

1

TRADING SUMMARY FINANCIAL

SHARES

25,214,429

INDUSTRIAL

163,731,976

HOLDING FIRMS

646,759,603

PROPERTY

123,679,795

SERVICES

438,769,679

MINING & OIL

1,826,516,005

GRAND TOTAL

3,267,541,491

1

SME

336,000 42,526,000

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 119.8 5,550 1

DDS

2,000

VALUE 1,839.56 (down) 14.78 1,632,884,255.54 FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL 11,735.45 (down) 88.58 1,247,541,125.87 HOLDING FIRMS 8,030.02 (down) 75.21 1,999,843,005.69 PROPERTY 3,982.28 (down) 23.48 SERVICES 1,608.46 (up) 2.26 798,032,079.96 MINING & OIL 8,620.94 (up) 71.26 1,415,578,541.47 PSEI 8,069.48 (down) 74.68 152,041,320.157 All Shares Index 4,892.54 (down) 16.97 7,322,588,302.96 Gainers: 124; Losers: 83; Unchanged: 47; Total: 254

Ayala Land buys 20% of Mitsubishi in Laguna park

By Jenniffer B. Austria MAJOR property developer Ayala Land Inc. will acquire the 20-percent stake of Mitsubishi Corp. in Laguna Technopark Inc. for P800 million.

Ayala Land said in a disclosure to the stock exchange its executive committee approved the deal.

Ayala Land said it would later swap the 20 percent equity interest in LTI for additional shares of stock in Prime Orion Philippines Inc., equivalent to 323,886,640 common shares, subject to conditions to be fulfilled by unit Popi.

“This transaction will strengthen Popi’s vision to be the leading real estate logistics and industrial estate developer and operator in the Philippines,” Ayala Land said.

Ayala Land owns 64 percent of Popi.

LTI is a prime developer of industrial parks in the Philippines. It owns and manages the 460-hectare Laguna Technopark, which spans portions of the cities of Santa Rosa and Biñan in the province and the 118-hectare Cavite Technopark in the municipality of Naic.

LTI’s industrial parks have served as preferred locations of local and foreign manufacturing, processing logistics and distribution companies in the Philippines.

Popi in November earmarked P1 billion to build and develop a logistics and warehouse facility in Laguna Technopark.

The project will generate over 60,000 square meters of gross leasable area, bringing the group’s real estate logistics total gross leasable area to 200,000 sqm.

Slated for completion by October 2020, the facility can accommodate small and medium businesses, as well as clients with growing warehousing and storage needs.

It will also serve non-PEZA (Philippine Economic Zone Authority) locators.

Popi earlier reported plans to launch a 100-hectare industrial park in Cagayan de Oro and acquire at least another 100-hectare property in Central Luzon to be developed into another industrial park.

8990 Holdings prepares P2-b share buyback

MASS housing developer 8990 Holdings Inc. said Monday it will conduct a share buyback worth up P2 billion in a bid to enhance and improve shareholder value.

8990 Holdings said in a disclosure to the stock exchange it would implement the share buyback program for a period 18 months, or until August 1, 2020.

8990 Holdings said the share buyback program would not involve any active and widespread solicitation from shareholders of the company to sell their shares.

The company’s majority shareholders, namely IHoldings Inc. and Kwantien Development Corp., as well the their controlling shareholders would not participate in the share buyback program.

“The share buyback program is to enhance shareholder value and to manifest the company’s value and prospects through the repurchase of the common shares,” the housing developer said.

8990 Holdings said it would repurchase shares using cash and place them repurchased under the company’s treasury shares.

“Any share buyback implemented shall take into account the need to maintain the liquidity of the company’s stock in the market, as well as public ownership requirements,” 8990 Holdings said.

8990 Holdings earlier said it planned to launch P50 billion worth of residential projects in 2019 amid a strong demand despite the rising interest rate environment.

Most of these projects are located in Metro Manila, Davao, Cebu, Bulacan and Bacolod.

The mass housing developer expects revenues in 2019 to reach P13.5 billion, up 17.4 percent from P11.billion in 2018, with more than half coming from its projects in Luzon, especially its largest project to-date—Urban Deca Homes Manila in Tondo. Net income is also seen to hit P5.2 billion this year.

Situated on an 8.4-hectare property, Urban Deca Homes Manila is a 13-tower residential complex offering over 13,000 units with an estimated sales value of P20 billion.

Jenniffer B. Austria

B3

World

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019 CESAR BARRIOQUINTO, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF Ship sinking kills 28 Haitians

FIRST EVER PAPAL VISIT. Pope Francis is welcomed by Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum along with Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed alNahyan upon his arrival to the presidential palace in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi on February 4, 2019. Pope Francis arrived in the UAE on February 3, the first ever papal visit to the Arabian Peninsula, birthplace of Islam, where he will meet leading Muslim clerics and hold an open-air mass for some 135,000 Catholics. AFP

Muscovites declare war on corrosive snow salt

MOSCOW―From the first snowfall in November to the very end of the thaw in April, Moscow enlists a small army of shovelers, scrapers, road gritters and plow drivers to keep the city moving.

Trucks carry mounds of snow through the night towards melting plants in the capital’s outskirts, while smaller vehicles hum down the pavements scattering salt mix.

“Russia without snow is not Russia,” says Alexei Babunashvili, the head of one such melting station, on a January morning after a normal week’s worth of snow has fallen overnight.

“It’s like a man without a woman... no life at all,” he adds, as behind him a truck carrying around 30 cubic meters of dirty snow dumps its load into a pit of heated water.

But Babunashvili, like many residents of the city, has questions over the salt mix that Moscow has in recent years been using in increasing volumes to keep the roads and pavements clear of ice.

On the streets and social media, complaints from Muscovites about the substance locally known as “reagent” begin as soon as temperatures drop below zero.

“Reagent spoils shoes and car wheels, but for melting snow it’s good,” Babunashvili says, as workers use poles to break up floating chunks of ice before the water goes into the sewage and re-enters the city’s supply after purification.

Other people are less equivocal about the mix of salt, marble chips, calcium chloride, formic acid and other chemicals that is liberally scattered around Moscow.

In 2009, a study by scientists from Moscow State University found that “reagent” harms soil, underground pipes and clothing, and can aggravate human and animal skin.

But Moscow officials who oversee snow clearing insist the substance is safe and that its exact makeup is constantly being developed.

One expert scattered road salt on black bread and ate it on state television two years ago.

“It’s disgusting,” says Ksenia Schmidt, a 20-year-old student chatting with friends in central Moscow. AFP

Insecure Salvadorans elect a new president S AN SALVADOR― Salvadorans on Sunday elected Nayib Bukele, the popular former mayor of San Salvador, as the Central American country’s new president―a result that ends the near 30-year grip on power of its two largest parties.

The country’s Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) awarded him 53.78 percent of votes with 87.67 percent counted―a lead it considered “irreversible.”

The 37-year-old president-elect, of the conservative Grand Alliance for National Unity (GANA) party, wore jeans and a leather jacket as he celebrated with supporters―thousands chanting his name and waving flags in the capital’s central Plaza Morazan.

“It’s a victory for the Salvadoran people, today we won in the first round and we have made history,” said Bukele, who despite being a firm favorite was expected to face a second round of voting.

He has promised to increase investment in education and fight corruption

—but his main task will be to confront insecurity in a country ravaged by gang violence.

He will also have to form an alliance with the right-wing opposition, which dominates congress, and govern with them until at least 2021 when the next legislative elections are held.

Bukele’s opponents—Carlos Calleja of the right-wing Nationalist Republican Alliance (ARENA), and Hugo Martinez of the leftist Farabundo Marti Front for National Liberation (FMLN) —quickly recognized the win. For nearly three decades, their parties have had a firm hold on Salvadoran politics.

“We recognize the results of these elections. We are going to call the president-elect to wish him luck in facing the challenges in this country,” said Calleja, the runner-up with 31.62 percent of votes. The FMLN’s Martinez took third place with 13.77 percent.

Meanwhile, Organization of American States (OAS) secretary general Luis Almagro congratulated Bukele on Twitter.

“We congratulate @nayibbukele for his historic victory in the first round. We celebrate his proposal for a new chapter for El Salvador. And we salute the political matuirty of the contending candidates in accepting his victory,” Almagro said.

Some 5.2 million people participated

in the election, according to the elections authority chief Julio Olivo.

Voters formed long lines outside polling stations in parts of San Salvador, where gang violence and insecurity are endemic. El Salvador is among the world’s most violent countries with a murder rate of 51 per 100,000 citizens.

“It’s honestly scary to go out alone in the street, you never know what can happen you,” first-time voter Gabriela Solorzano, 19, said at a polling station in the gang stronghold of Mejicanos in the capital’s north, her brother holding her hand.

In nearby streets, where graffiti on the walls testify to the presence of criminal gangs, many voters arrived aboard buses laid on by the political parties.

But outgoing President Salvador Sanchez Ceren, of the FMLN, said voting proceeded “very calmly and very normally.”

Some 23,000 police officers and 15,000 soldiers were deployed to protect the sixth presidential election since democracy was restored in 1992—after 12 years of bloody civil war between state security forces and leftist guerrillas.

For analyst Roberto Canas, Salvadorans “buried” the bipartisanship that “could not read the needs of the people, such as the insecurity experienced daily on the streets.” AFP

MARCH. Sri Lankan military personnel with the army cultural troupe march in traditional dress holding the national flag during the island’s 71st Independence Day celebrations in Colombo on February 4, 2019. Sri Lanka marked the 71st anniversary of independence from Britain on February 4.

AFP

floodgates of a major dam late Sunday, unleashing what they called “dangerous and high velocity flows.”

In hard-hit Townsville, cars were mostly submerged, with picket fences barely poking through waist-deep flood waters.

“We’ve never seen so much water in our lives,” said local radio journalist Gabi Elgood. “You think there can’t possibly be any more to come but the rain just doesn’t stop.”

Desperate residents had to contend not only with flash flooding, landslides and power blackouts, but also several saltwater crocodile sightings in residential roads and cul-de-sacs.

Queensland Police issued a blunt warning for people to stay out of floodwaters.

Mexico fuel theft death toll rises to 125 MEXICO CITY―The death toll from a fiery pipeline explosion in central Mexico last month reached 125, the government announced Sunday.

Another 22 people remain in hospital, many of them with burns covering at least 80 percent of their bodies, the social security office IMSS reported.

On January 18, the fuel-line in Hidalgo state was deliberately punctured, drawing hundreds of people looking to gather gasoline before it ignited.

The disaster occurred as the government wages a huge effort to clamp down on fuel theft, which costs Mexico an estimated three billion dollars in 2017.

So-called “huachicol”—as the stolen fuel is known in Mexico—costs about half of market price.

Mexico is regularly rocked by deadly explosions at illegal pipeline taps, a dangerous but lucrative business whose players include powerful drug cartels and corrupt Pemex insiders. AFP

Millions take the plunge for mega festival

Military steps in as Australia floods bring crocodiles to the streets CAIRNS―Australia’s military has been deployed to tackle devastating “once-ina-century” floods that have inundated homes, schools and airports in the country’s northeast, forcing hundreds to flee and bringing crocodiles onto the streets.

The Australian Defense Forces delivered 70,000 sandbags, deployed amphibious cargo vehicles and helped pluck flashlight-wielding residents from their rooftops Monday, as monsoon rains drenched the northern state of Queensland.

Australia’s tropical north typically experiences heavy rains during the monsoon season, but the recent downpour has seen some areas get a year’s worth of rainfall in a week.

The authorities were forced to open

MIAMI―At least 28 Haitians have drowned off the coast of Abaco in the Bahamas, officials said Sunday, the latest tragedy at sea for migrants seeking to leave the Caribbean’s poorest economy.

“Thus far, a total of 17 persons have been rescued alive and 28 bodies have been recovered from the water” after two days of dive operations, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force said.

The incident unfolded Saturday when the ship carrying the Haitians sank near Fowl Cay, 10 kilometers off the coast of Marsh Harbor, Abaco.

Fifteen survivors and 13 dead bodies were recovered Saturday in a joint mission between the RBDF and US Coast Guard. On Sunday, two more survivors were found alive on a nearby cay in addition to 15 bodies in the sunken vessel.

In a tweet, the US embassy in Haiti described the ship as a vessel trafficking people out of Haiti, adding: “No journey is worth risking lives—please urge families and communities: Illegal migrant & smuggling operations are dangerous and frequently end in tragedy.”

The RBDF added that this year alone, some 300 Haitians had been apprehended for illegal entry during four separate incidents.

In a country where more than 60 percent of the population lives on less than two dollars a day, there are frequent attempts to reach the Bahamas or Turks and Caicos illegally.

In recent years, thousands of young Haitians have migrated to Chile or Brazil, countries where visas are more easily obtained.

Although Haitians historically have gone to the United States, and to Florida in particular, the flow of migrants has shifted to Canada and other neighboring countries.

Since a devastating earthquake in 2010, about 60,000 Haitians have found temporary protected status in the United States.

US President Donald Trump’s administration announced in 2017 it was terminating the program but the decision has been challenged in several court cases. AFP

“If the thought of coming face to face with a crocodile isn’t deterrent enough, before you start playing in flood waters you should always remember the distinct possibility you could be wading in your neighbour’s faeces”, the statement said.

Emergency services have struggled to respond to the scale of the disaster, with more than 1,100 people calling for help and 18 “swift water rescues” conducted overnight.

“Small boats worked through the night to evacuate members of the community,” said local commander Brigadier Scott Winter.

Around 400 Townsville residents have sought shelter at nearby Lavarak military barracks.

State premier Annastacia Palaszczuk warned the communities face more difficulties ahead. Schools and courts remain closed, more rain and high winds are on the way and emergency warnings still in effect for more than a dozen rivers.

Up to 20,000 homes are at risk of being inundated if the rains continue, officials said.

“It’s basically not just a one in 20-year event, it’s a one-in-100-year event,” said Palaszczuk.

“This is unprecedented, we’ve never seen anything like this before,” she said.

Ergon Energy’s spokesperson Emma Oliveri told the AFP that more than 16,000 people were without power, with the supplier unable to say when the lights will come back on. AFP

ALLAHABAD, India―Millions of Hindu pilgrims took the plunge into sacred rivers at the world’s largest religious gathering Monday, led by ashsmeared holy men and accompanied by religious chanting.

On the most auspicious day of the months-long Kumbh Mela festival, devotees rose at dawn in the northern city of Allahabad to immerse themselves at the confluence of three rivers -- the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.

Thousands of Naga Sadhus, a devout, fierce and famously nude sect of followers of the Hindu god Shiv, and other holy men clad in saffron robes, led the mass bathing in the chilly waters, some brandishing swords and tridents.

Hindus believe that bathing in the sacred rivers cleanses them of sin and Monday’s Mauni Amavasya Snan—the “no moon day”—considered the holiest of the gigantic 48-day festival that runs until March 4.

More than 30,000 police were on duty to manage the huge crowds and prevent the deadly stampedes that have marred previous gatherings.

Authorities have spent about $40 million on an operation to block drains and make sure others undergo special cleansing so that waste water pouring into the rivers does not threaten the pilgrims.

Special skimmer boats collected waste from the surface of the rivers and more than 40,000 temporary toilets have been installed.

Pilgrims have been streaming into a temporary tent city—three times the size of Manhattan island—in buses, trains and cars to participate in the festival’s high point. AFP

LGUs

Jimbo Owen Gulle, Editor lgu@manilastandard.net editor.lgustandard@gmail.com

B4

LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019

CPP-NPA ordered Malayao murder, says former rebel

BIÑAN CELEBRATION. Biñan City Mayor Arman Dimaguila (second from right) cuts the ceremonial ribbon to lead the triple celebration of the 9th Binan Cityhood Anniversary on

Saturday Feb. 2, the 74th Biñan Liberation Day on Feb. 3, and Biñan Foundation Day on Feb. 4. Members of the City Council led by Vice Mayor Gel Alonte (2nd from left) also joined the event that started with the Grand People’s Parade and the opening of the Gawang Biñan Trade Fair. Roy Tomandao

Subic job fair for displaced Hanjin workers

By Butch Gunio SUBIC BAY FREEPORT―The “Build Build Build” team composed of various government agencies will gather around 70 employers involved in the government’s infrastructure program and companies within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone for a Jobs Caravan on Feb. 9, Saturday.

To be held at the SBMA Gym in the Subic Bay Freeport, the “Build Build Build = Jobs Jobs Jobs Caravan” was initiated to provide employment to the displaced workers of Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction Philippines.

Atty. Wilma Eisma, chairperson and administrator of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, said the agency is committed to find jobs for the displaced Hanjin workers.

“Subic is happy to be part of this project to bring greater positive social impact to our people. We are committed to find every opportunity for the SBMA to make more jobs available and catalyze greater growth in Central Luzon and the rest of the country,” Eisma said.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III assured that there will be no job-skill mismatch after DOLE conducted a profiling activity on 2,779 Hanjin workers.

“Around 65 percent or 1,801 of the 2,779 profiled Hanjin workers are skilled in carpentry, 24 percent or 661 on the other hand have skills in vulcanizing and welding, hence there will be no problem with job-skill mismatch if they work in the construction industry,” he said.

Makati realty, biz tax revenue up in January

By Joel E. Zurbano

T

HE city government of Makati on Monday announced its revenue collection from business and realty taxes in January surpassed last year’s collection by more than P815 million.

Mayor Abigail Binay said revenue from business tax increased by 12.17 percent while realty tax increased by 8.39 percent last month compared with the actual collections for the same period last year, for a combined total of P8.6 billion.

“For the second time during my term as mayor, the city has posted a two-digit increase in revenue collections. It is a clear proof that investor confidence in my administration continues to gain strength, as we actively pursue greater efficiency and transparency in governance,” Binay said.

The city chief executive thanked businesses and landowners in Makati for being “diligent and honest” in paying their taxes.

“You have the heartfelt gratitude of

the people of Makati for your contributions to the city’s financial stability that has guaranteed the continuity and sustainability of our major social programs, as well as the timely launch of high-impact innovations in the way we serve Makatizens,” she declared.

City chief treasurer Jesusa Cuneta said the city Business Tax Division collected P4,758,218,187.11 from January 3 to 31, 2019, which is higher by P516,548,963.33 than the January 2018 collection of P4,241,669,223.78.

The Real Property Tax Division, on the other hand, collected P3,863,652,561.14, topping by P299,089,897.60 its January 2018 collection of P3,564,562,663.54.

Mayor Binay reiterated that the significant increase in revenues since she took office last July 2016 was a result of

SM Marilao workers join local waterway cleanup

DPWH: 104 new school buildings finished in Reg. 2

By Brenda Jocson TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan— The start of the year looks bright for thousands of students, parents, and school facilitators in Region 2 as they get newer and better facilities.

Department of Public Works and Highways Regional Director Melanio C. Briosos reported the completion of 104 school buildings that will accommodate the needs of the K to 12 program in partnership with the Department of Education.

“In response to the region’s growing population of students, DPWH Region 02 has completed the construction of 261 classrooms regionwide in the amount of P1.240 billion,” Briosos said.

The funding was sourced out of Basic Educational Facilities Fund from the 2018 national budget for educational facilities intended for academic, elementary, junior, and senior high schools all over the region.

Briosos said the completion of the projects fulfills the commitment of national leadership to improve educational facilities for the children in the improvised barangays, and at the same time bolstering the K to 12 program of the government in the region,” he added.

reforms she initiated at city hall to make transactions more efficient and convenient for taxpayers, while promoting transparency and good governance.

These include the establishment of a Business One-Stop Shop at the ground floor of City Hall Building II, and streamlining of processes for business permit renewal and new applications.

After Binay served her first full-year term as Mayor in 2017, the city achieved a 12-digit increase in revenue collections for the first time in the last 12 years.

The 2017 financial statements of the city also earned the ‘unqualified opinion’ of the Commission on Audit (COA).

It was the very first time that the city earned the highest audit rating given by the independent regulatory body.

For 2018, the city posted P17.8 billion in total revenue collections, which was 14 percent higher than its revenue target and five percent higher than its 2017 total collections. The bulk of revenues came from Business Tax with P9.1 billion, followed by Realty Tax with almost P6.2 billion.

Employees from SM City Marilao participate in the cleanup drive held at Barangay Ibayo in Marilao, Bulacan. The project was spearheaded by the local government of Marilao and Barangay Ibayo to restore and clean-up the town’s waterways. Jun David

EMPLOYEES of SM City Marilao trooped to local waterways in Marilao, Bulacan on Saturday to participate in a massive cleanup drive.

Volunteers gathered as early as 6 a.m. at Barangay Ibayo and started cleaning as well as collecting garbage and hazardous waste from creeks and waterways.

Joey Amador, Brgy. Ibayo Captain, said the activity was part of the local government’s project to clean-up the rivers and waterways in Marilao.

“The cleanup drive in Marilao was part of our mandate. We will be doing this as often as needed and we will be coordinating and collaborating with private sectors, schools, organizations as well as other LGUs to help us with the cleanup and rehabilitation effort,” Amador said.

Truckloads of garbage were collected during the four-hour activity.

Jun David

Anilao dive spot gets coral restoration lab AS PART of its corporate social responsibility, Metro Pacific Investments Corp. Foundation, through its Shore It Up program, recently received a donation of 40 eco-reef modules, which will be installed in Balayan Bay, one of the country’s top scuba diving destinations.

Since 2016, MPIC Foundation has been nurturing a Coral Restoration Field Laboratory in Bgy. Solo in Mabini, Batangas to help restore the marine ecosystem of the area.

In the past two years, it has laid 12 modules, which has provided valuable data to help in the flourishing of aquatic life in the barangay.

Eco-Mer artificial reef units are made of marine concrete, which has better larval attachment, higher survival rates of coral recruits and wider niche range for higher species diversity, beyond any other commercial

artificial reefs.

The laboratory serves as an underwater work station for volunteer divers to study the fluid dynamics, study coral growth potential at Eco-MER units per depth and other scientific diving related to monitoring and coral restoration for Mabini.

The artificial coral reefs undergo monitoring and scientific activities to help enrich the ecosytem of Anilao’s dive spots by setting up marine sanctuaries.

Volunteer divers and local Bantay Dagat who will serve as technicians of the underwater laboratory were certified by the National Association of Underwater Instructors. Mooring buoys will also be installed in dive sites to prevent damage to corals caused by dropping of anchors.

THE group Kilusan at Alyansa ng mga Dating Rebelde, which is composed of former communist rebels, on Monday said the local leftists ordered the murder of National Democratic Front consultant Randy Malayao.

KADRE’s “Ka George,” a former rebel who said he worked with Malayao during their time with the communistled National Youth, said he had evidence to prove that the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s ArmyNDF was behind the killing of Malayao.

His statement dovetails with a police statement over the weekend that said Malayao was sentenced to die by the Reds’ revolutionary justice system or “kangaroo court” for dipping into revolutionary taxes or “permit to campaign” and “permit to win” fees taken from political aspirants in Regions 1, 2 and the Cordillera Autonomous Region.

Malayao was gunned down while sleeping on board a bus in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya heading to Cagayan province early Wednesday morning, January 30.

Ka George, who asked that his real name be withheld to protect his family and fellow former rebels, said the “hit” on Malayao can be likened to the bombing of Plaza Miranda in Manila in 1971.

That event was initially denied by the communist group, which pinned the blame on former President Ferdinand Marcos. However, during the 1980s, a member of the communists admitted that it was CPP founder Jose Ma. “Joma” Sison had ordered the bombing to start a revolution, Ka George noted.

Amid growing curiousity over the identities of Malayao’s assassins, the CPP-NPA on Sunday had released a new press statement condemning the summary execution of Malayao and blaming President Rodrigo Duterte and the military for it.

“This aims to cover up the responsibility of state agents, specifically Rodrigo Duterte’s death squads, which he himself ordered to carry out the killing,” Sison said even after the Palace already expressed its condolences to the bereaved families of the slain communist.

According to Ka George, before the killing, Malayao told the communist group he was taking a break from the organization and was heading to Cagayan.

Malayao was formerly the vice president of College Editor’s Guild of the Philippines. He entered the communist movement in 1992, during the time that caused a breakup between the so-called reaffirmists or RAs, who affirmed the leadership of Sison and adopted the Maoist line of guerrilla warfare, rejectionists or RJs who rejected Joma.

A third group within the Reds was called Rejoice that was eventually renamed into the Makabayan bloc, Ka George said. Malayao, he added, is the product of this streamlining who joined the RA. Part of the streamlining of the RA, the KADRE member said, is the “experimental joining” in the parliamentary struggle through the selection of candidates who would be part of party-list groups like Bayan Muna, Gabriela, Anakpawis, Migrante, ACT, Kabataan, Piston and a political party like Makabayan.

But Malayao used the parliamentary struggle and party-list operations of the communist group as a source of funds for the CPP, particularly to support the NPA, Ka George said.

Millions of pesos were collected from party-list operations and from the alliance with the traditional parties and individuals, he said.

Malayao also led the debate and the formation of a group of “new guards” in the communist movement that became “a thorn on the side of Joma Sison,” Ka George said. With Brenda Jocson In photo prior to the underwater deployment of the eco-reef modules are Eco-Mer and Divers Institute of Technology consultant William McGilton, MPIC Foundation president Melody Del Rosario, and marine ecology expert professor Avigdor ‘AV’ Abelson from the Tel Aviv University in Israel.

Life

HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com @manilastandardlife @MStandardLIFE TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019

C1

Kuya Kim Atienza

on regaining his strength “S

OMETIMES when we’re sick, we think that it’s a catastrophe. It’s something that is so bad that we’ll be ruined or that our life will go down the drain. That’s not true,” shares Kim Atienza.

Atienza, fondly called Kuya Kim, never anticipated to be paralyzed just as he was in his most physically active state.

Kuya Kim in 2013 was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that causes paralysis and loss of reflexes, during his training for his supposedly first full Ironman in Australia.

“In the middle of training, I realized that I could not move my hands. They were paralyzed. The next day, after my run program, I could not wiggle my toes. I went to my doctor, and I was told that I have Guillain-Barré Syndrome,” he relates.

When Atienza was younger, he admitted to being haughty, thinking that he’s a great guy and that everything is

within his power. But this perspective changed when he got sick.

He says there were two turning points in his life. The first was in 2010 when he suffered from a stroke and then, in 2013 when he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

“Suffering from a stroke made me physically born again. It made me decide to become an athlete, a marathoner, a triathlete, and an Ironman because I was so afraid that it will happen to me again. I became so healthy,” he shares.

He continues, “But, at the fittest point in my life, when I was the healthiest Kuya Kim I could be, I got paralyzed. Yun pala God had a plan for me.

The plan was for me to be spiritually born again. I accepted Jesus Christ as

Kim Atienza continues to be physically active after suffering from stroke in 2010 and being diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome in 2013.

Television host and weather anchor Kuya Kim Atienza

Lord and Savior and the Source of all my power.”

Atienza was told that he could’ve been totally paralyzed if he was not diagnosed early. He took it as God’s blessing. According to him, he went to the hospital to seek medical attention, which prevented the condition from aggravating.

“I saw something positive in it because it changed me. I realized that the motto of Ironman is I can. While training for my first full Ironman, I kept on telling myself that I can do it. But that afternoon, in the ICU, when I could not even move my hands and feet, I realized that I can’t. I knew, right there and

then, that there’s nothing I can do; it’s only God—God can. So, I changed my motto and, it became God can because of that experience,” he shares.

The TV personality says the condition is self-limiting. “It will heal itself but, you have to take the medicine. It’s called IVIG Immunoglobulin. I was in the ICU for more than a week.”

More than healing the autoimmune disorder, Atienza explains that it is very important to avoid it by strengthening the immune system.

“Santé Barley is the perfect supplement to strengthen your immune system, especially for athletes like me. Our

immune system can get very low, especially if the training is strenuous. So, to supplement it with barley products from Santé is great,” he adds.

More than being active he says his experiences have led him to know his purpose in life now.

“My purpose in life is simple. It used to be ambition. It used to be the best TV personality I can be. And, it even used to be the best father. But, it now all comes with accepting Jesus Christ. If you seek the kingdom, then all else will be added.”

(Photos from Kim Atienza/Instagram)

How to create good luck in the Year of the Earth Pig SOME people believe that good luck purely happens by chance, but it is possible to steer toward a better, lucky life. A person can create their own luck by taking better care of themselves, preparing for inevitable life events, and by constantly paying it forward.

it helps to be secure and have peace of mind.

Smart Traveller helps travelers protect themselves while on vacation. Not only will it provide protection for personal belongings, it also comes with 24-hour medical assistance, personal accident coverage, liability and personal safety coverage, and even refunds for unexpectTake care of your health ed expenses like lost baggage. It also includes a Eating healthy, exercising regularly, getting personal accident insurance. enough water and sleep, and having an executive check-up should be part of the priority. Consider getStay positive ting health insurance such as Axa’s Global Health While bad circumstances are inevitable, those Access which provides world-class medical cover- with a positive outlook are able to overcome them. age in the Philippines and any country in the world. Their optimism makes them resilient. Consciously focus on all the good things in life. Keep a gratSave for the future itude journal. When a person constantly practice The insurance firm strongly advises to set aside being grateful for everything around them, posifixed amount for savings monthly. Investments, tive things start happening in their life, relationwhether they are to be used for education, retire- ships, and resources. ment or real estate, are a great idea to ensure an individual and their loved ones’ financial security.

Do good things For instance, Axa Asset Master is a single-pay, inIt may be a grand gesture like organizing a vestment-linked insurance plan that allows build- feeding program for the less fortunate, but it can ing of a diversified investment portfolio of local also be as simple as helping out a friend in need. and global investments.

These acts of kindness are very powerful. These also provide a person a new perspective they can Prepare for emergencies use in their life. When a person gives kindness, When traveling or in an emergency situation, they attract kindness and good luck.

Create your good luck by taking care of yourself and those you value.

C2

Entertainment

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2019

nickie.standard@gmail.com

Komiks characters of F.V. Coching at the CCP

‘ELISE’ stars in Araneta Center’s Chinese New Year celebration T HIS Chinese New Year, the Araneta Center is looking to stars and welcoming them as it ushers in the Year of the Pig.

Janine Gutierrez and Enchong Dee, stars of the Regal Entertainment’s pre-Valentine offering, ‘Elise.”

THE Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) is proud to take part in the centennial celebration of National Artist for Visual Arts Francisco V. Coching via the exhibition, Nasaan Ka Na, Mara-Bini: Tracing Liberation and Empowerment in the Stories of F.V. Coching’s Rebel Daughters.

The exhibit opened on the late artist’s 100th birthday on Jan. 29 and may be viewed for free by the public until April 7 at the CCP’s Pasilyo Vicente Manansala (2F Hallway Gallery).

The exhibition is presented in cooperation with the Coching Family and independent curator Alice Sarmiento.

The curator writes: “A rich variety of characters and stories runs through Coching’s work, granting the reader a look into Coching’s ideas of where women belonged when it came to the everyday struggles he portrayed in his komiks.

While often possessing stereotypically feminine traits--softness, compassion, empathy--Coching’s female characters are also allowed agency and even militancy in choosing their battles.”

Nasaan Ka Na, Mara-Bini will also be a part of the CCP’s Women’s Month celebration in March, and its upcoming Performatura Festival in April. Exhibit viewing hours are from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and until 10:00 p.m. on days with evening performances at the CCP Main Theater.

For more information, contact the CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division at (632) 8321125 loc. 1504/1505 and (632) 832-3702, mobile (0917-6033809), email (ccp.exhibits@ gmail.com) or visit www.culturalcenter.gov.ph

Gracing the festivities are the stars of Elise, Enchong Dee and Janine Gutierrez, who will do a quick stop Gateway Mall Activity Area today before heading to the Gateway Cineplex for the premiere of their movie at Gateway Cineplex 2, 6:00 p.m.

Joining the celebration geared toward Prosperity, Interests and Good Luck at the Gateway Mall Activity Area in the afternoon are Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 and Binibining Pilipinas 2015 semifinalist Teresita Marquez, and young stars Krystal Brimner (Honor Thy Father, Your Face Sounds Familiar Kids S e a s o n 2), Sammie Rimando (It’s Showtime), Ana de Leon, JayR Ramos, and Kayla Heredia.

Psychic to the stars Madam Suzette Arandela will talk about improving one’s fortunes at the Gateway Mall, while feng shui expert Tony Suvega will give out tips to attract good luck at Farmers Plaza and Ali Mall.

Arandela has gained popularity for her predictions on the careers

and personal lives of several celebrities, while Suvega has built a name as the go-to consultant when it comes to the ancient Chinese art of geomancy.

For P500 single receipt purchase, registrants may consult these experts and other tarot card readers, get souvenirs and be eligible for the raffle. Registration starts at 11:00 a.m..

Those joining the revelry at the Gateway Mall will also get tips on how to decorate and cultivate lucky plants during a workshop.

Horoscope readings on the love, health, and career fortunes of the 12 zodiac signs are also available at the three malls.

Shoppers will also be immersed in Chinese culture as lion and dragon dancers and cultural ribbon dancers will also perform and go around Araneta Center.

Shoppers may also take pictures on the three malls’ photo walls, post their pictures on their Instagram account, tag Araneta Center and get a chance to win any of these three prizes: overnight stay for two at the Novotel Manila Araneta Center; one brand new LG smart phone; and round trip tickets to Puerto Princesa, Palawan for two.

Until Feb. 13, Gateway Mall will also house a bazaar offering Chinese food and treats.

For more updates, visit www.aranetacenter.net and follow our social media pages: @AranetaCenter on Facebook and Twitter and @TheAranetaCenter on Instagram.

‘Ang Huling El Bimbo’ returns

The cast and production crew of the musical ‘Ang Huling El Bimbo’

“EACH of the cast, new and returning, will infuse something new and different.”

That’s what Dexter Santos, the director of Ang Huling El Bimbo, promises as the musical show returns for a second run after its successful staging in September at Resort’s World Manila.

“The script is updated, there are more twists to the story, and a new set of actors will surely entice the audience as they once again feature the timeless songs of Eraserheads,” Santos continued.

Returning cast members are Gian Magdangal, OJ Mariano, Jon Santos,

Reb Atadero, Boo Gabunada, Bibo Reyes, Tanya Manalang and Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo.

Joining them are Nicco Manalo, Lance Reblando, David Ezram, Phi Palmos, Myke Solomon, Rafa SuguionReyna, Gabriella Pangilinan, and Carla Guevarra-Laforteza, new set of actors who went through rigorous auditions.

“If you put them on stage together, they can experiment, they can also put so much on those characters. Doing it for the second time is all about possibilities, about perspectives, about choices,” Santos said.

For Gian Magdangal, who retains his character Hector, the restaging of Ang Huling El Bimbo is an entirely different journey.

“There are so many choices to make because we have to define what we want, what I want for my character,” Magdangal shared.

Ang Huling El Bimbo runs from March 1 to April 6. Tickets are available at Ticket World (www.ticketworld.com. ph) and at the RWM Box Office at GF Newport Mall, Resort’s World Manila.

Marianne Ilumba

Kapuso star Barbie Forteza

117th Founding Anniversary

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Monitoring Group, Assessment and Operations Coordination Group, Intelligence Group, Enforcement Group, Management Information System and Technology Group and Post Clearance Audit Group.

Guerrero succeeded the position of Former Customs Commissioner and now, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General, Isidro Lapena, last October 31, 2018. Before he became BOC Commissioner, Guerrero was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as the administrator of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) after his retirement from the Armed Forces of the Philippines as chief.

He served in the military for 34 years and was the commanding general of the Eastern Mindanao Command.

The Bureau of Customs often work in conjunction with other departments and other countries’ own customs department in order to ensure that laws and regulations are implemented properly. Just recently, the BOC and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency or PDEA signed a memorandum of agreement at the PDEA office activity area in Quezon City in order to renew their partnership in preventing the smuggling of illegal drugs.

This agreement will ensure that the two departments will hold monthly meetings to discuss operational matters, the status of implemented programs, and strategies necessary to meet their objectives.

The BOC has a yearly and monthly revenue target that it aims to achieve, per customs collection port and as a whole. They keep track and report their progress on both their official website and their official facebook page.

The BOC also works in partnership with the appropriate departments to prevent banned goods from entering the country- particularly those that has a risk of being contaminated with virus or disease from areas

Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, accompanied by Atty. Ma. Rhea M. Gregorio, District Collector of the Port of Subic, witnessed the inspection of twelve (12) containers of abandoned sugar at Subic Bay International Container Port (SBITC).

experiencing an outbreak of said virus or disease. Most recently, the BOC reinforced a DA order regarding the ban of pork from specific countries where an outbreak of African Swine Fever had been monitored. Along with the National Veterinary Quarantine Service or NVQS, Customs tightened its regula-

tions when it came to quarantine policies over swine products.

As a part of its duties, the BOC prevents the smuggling of fake or counterfeit products from entering the country, confiscating them in raids approved by the Commissioner himself. Under the Republic Act No. 8293 or the Intellec-

tual Property Code of the Philippines, fake goods are prohibited.

Last Thursday as well, 3 raids were successfully performed in various warehouse units in Binondo, Parañaque.

These raids yielded P700 million worth of bogus apparel that was seized and confiscated by the BOC. The bureau also

issued another letter of authority against two warehouses located at Meliton Espiritu Street, Steelhauz Compound, Sucat, Parañaque City.

Since the start of the year the BOC has seen various revamps and improvements in policy, as well as more activities against smuggling and customs fraud.

Manila port overshoots target, rakes in P7.4 billion

By Joel E. Zurbano THE Bureau of Customs - Port of Manila exceeded its P7.4 billion revenue target for the month of January by more than P143 million, District Collector Rhea Gregorio said on Sunday.

"The PoM surpassed its January target of P7.44 billion with a total collection of P7.59 billion, a surplus of 1.92 percent or P143 million. This is a great way to start a year," said Gregorio.

It was also under the time of Collector Gregorio in 2017 that Manila last exceeded its January target.

The total amount of import duties and taxes collected by Port of Manila last month were up by P1.79 billion from P5.8 billion a year ago.

Gregorio said the PoM’s collections in January were at surplus due to "strict implementation and fair application of laws, rules and regulation and identifying overlaps and redundancies that causes red tape and avoidable delays."

She added last month’s higher collections also came on the back of the support and cooperation of all stakeholders and hardworking PoM personnel.

"All the collecting offices and subports un-

der Port of Manila worked together to achieve our target for January," Gregorio said.

"Other factors would be an increased coordination and efficiency from all offices within the Port of Manila, and of course the confidence and support from the Office of the Commissioner," she added.

The Manila port had recorded revenue shortfalls in 2018 until Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero assigned Gregorio to the top post.

She was the district collector of Subic port from September to December last year.

During her four-month stint in Subic, Gregorio led the port to achieve an all-time high for its annual collections of P22.4 billion or a surplus of P1.3 billion.

Gregorio took her oath of office in Port of Manila before Commissioner Guerrero on Jan. 7. She replaced Collector Erastus Sandino Austria, who was transferred to the Manila International Container Port.

Both PoM and MICP are two of the biggest and so-called "billionaire ports" of the bureau.

Collector Maritess Martin, on the other hand, replaced Gregorio in Port of Subic.

Customs officials said the agency has regained the trust and confidence of stakeholders, thus, its collections continue to rise in line with its fiscal and administrative policies.

1Founding 17th

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Anniversary

Another Milestone for Bureau of Customs

By Kyle Gabrielle Ureta and Lorelee Antonette Yap

C

ELEBRATING its 117th anniversary today, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) is a Philippine government agency under the Department of Finance.

Through the years, BOC has evolved across different reformations from changing titles, positions and duties due to various laws until its present form today. Since then, the BOC has been in charge of imports and exports, customs procedures, border control, prevention and suppression of smuggled goods and other customs fraud, and international trade in general.

The Bureau of Customs also handles the facilitation and security of international trade and commerce through an informed compliance program.

It handles the supervision and control over the entrance and clearance of vessels and aircraft engaged in foreign commerce the handling of foreign mails arriving in the Philippines for the purpose of collecting revenues and preventing the entry of contraband on all import and export cargoes landed or stored in piers, airports, terminal facilities. This includes container yards and freight stations for the protection of government revenue and prevention of entry of contraband.

The BOC enforces Republic Act 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) and all other laws, rules and regulations related to customs administration. RA 10863 amends the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines (TCCP) in an attempt to modernize Customs rules and procedures for faster trade, reduced opportunities for corruption, and improved Customs service delivery and improved supply chain.

The Bureau of Customs is headed by the Customs Commissioner, currently Rey Leonardo Guerrero, who is responsible for the general administration and management of the bureau. The Commissioner is assisted by six Deputy Commissioners and an Assistant Commissioner, who supervises the Internal Administration Group, Revenue Collection Turn to C3

BOC's joint flag raising ceremony to start the week-long celebration of its 117th Anniversary. (Above) Acting Deputy Commissioner for Internal Administartion Group (IAG) Donato San Juan II and BOC Chief Rey Leonardo Guerrero giving service awards to BOC employees.

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At the heart of Philippine trade is the Port of Manila, where ICTSI operates the country’s sole dedicated international container terminal (MICT) and the largest multi-use domestic cargo hub (NorthPort).

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