Manila Standard - 2018 November 23 - Friday

twitter.com/ MlaStandard

facebook.com/ ManilaStandardPH

S

manilastandard.net

Missed your copy of Manila Standard? Call or text our Circulation Hotline at 0917-8848655 or email: circ@manilastandardtoday.com

Palace presses for ‘19 budget okay

By Nat Mariano MALACAÑANG on Thursday said it remained optimistic that the proposed 2019 national budget of P3.757 trillion will be passed on time, despite delays in the House of Representatives.

Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the Executive Department’s legis-

lative liaison office currently coordinates with Congress to address concerns about the budget proposal for 2019 and ensure its timely passage.

“The House knows that this is the budget proposal of the Palace. And so, they will have to do their job. If there are questions on the budget, they will raise them Next page

VOL. XXXII • NO. 281 • 3 SECTIONS 16 PAGES • P18 • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018 • www.manilastandard.net • editorial@manilastandard.net

FURIOUS FINGERS. Schoolchildren place their painted hands on a white board Thursday describing their rights as they join a campaign against prostitution in several parts of the country during the 26th National Children’s

Month. Norman Cruz

DFA defends China oil deal Leaning Tower straightens slightly ROME—The Leaning Tower of Pisa is now stable and has even straightened slightly, thanks to engineering work to save the world-renowned tourist attraction, experts said on Wednesday Next page

IS-linked suspect ‘MOU serves as basis for future exploration talks’ dies in buy-bust By Nat Mariano, Rey E. Requejo and Macon Ramos-Araneta act; vest saves cop

A

DMITTING that he drafted the oil exploration deal with China, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said the memorandum of understanding for joint oil and gas development between Philippines and China would uphold the constitutionally-mandated 60-40 profit sharing.

By Francisco Tuyay A SUSPECTED Islamic State operative who was linked to the foiled bombing of the United States Embassy in Manila in 2016 was killed in a military-police operation in Ormoc City on Thursday.

Army Capt. Salvacion Evangelista, Civil Military Operations head of the 8th Infantry Division, said Joseph Anulga, alias Dawud, was killed after he resisted arrest during a buy-bust operation in Sitio Lawis in Airport village in Ormoc City around 8 am.

He said Anulga was killed after closing a deal with a police poseur for a .45-caliber pistol in exchange for P12,000.

The police anti-narcotics agent was handing the money to Anulga, but Anulga drew his gun and fired at the poseur, hitting his bullet- proof vest and sparking a shootout that led to Anulga’s death.

“Anulga was an Islamic Convert who has already pledged allegiance to Daesh and its recognized Calip Abu Bakr Al Bagdadi,” Evangelista said in a report.

Next page

WEATHER New storm lurks in PH area THE Philippine, Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration is closely monitoring a severe tropical storm outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility with an international name of “Man-yi” that is likely to enter the country during the weekend.

Next page

The MOU, he added, would serve as not specify how profits would be split. the basis for future talks on oil and reThis provision was not included in the sources exploration with Beijing but did MOU because the task would be handled

by working committees provided under the agreement.

In an interview with CNN Philippines, Locsin said the MOU will create a joint intergovernmental steering committee, with one or more working groups, to aid both Manila and Beijing to come to an agreement within 12 months of the MOU’s signing.

“This memorandum of understanding, in all discussions, negotiations, and Next page

Massacre victims’ kin seek arrest of 70

By Rey E. Requejo and Rio N. Araja THE families of the victims of the Maguindanao massacre on Thursday urged the government to redouble its efforts to arrest more than 70 of the 197 suspects who are still at large, but expressed relief that a decision on the multiple murder charges against the prime suspect, Andal Ampatuan Jr., might come early next year.

In a statement released on the eve of the commemoration of the ninth anniversary of the massacre of 58 people—including 32 journalists—the families of those slain said news that the case against Andal Jr. has been submitted for resolution by Judge Jocelyn Solis Reyes of the Quezon City regional trial court Branch 211 was a welLONG QUEST FOR JUSTICE. Families of Ampatuan massacre victims visit come development. the National Museum Thursday to mark the ninth year of the tragedy that sent shock “We meet this news with renewed vigor waves across the nation of more than 100 million, reflecting the families’ desire that history

Housing exec new casualty of Rody’s ‘firing spree’ Seoul wants toxic waste returned to S. Korean sender will be made when justice is finally served. Norman Cruz

By Nat Mariano

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday announced the dismissal of Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council Secretary-General Falconi Millar following the corruption allegations against him.

“You know, when you are secretarygeneral, you have the power, you have the authority; you can do corruption and it can corrupt you a little or corrupt you absolutely,” Duterte said during the inauguration of the Cavite Gateway Terminal in Tanza.

Millar denied the corruption allegations and described Duterte’s termination order as a “demolition job.”

“It is an obvious demolition job. In protecting the interest of the government, I have annoyed some personalities. I filed Next page

Next page

By Rey E. Requejo and Maricel V. Cruz THE South Korean government has started legal proceedings for the return of about 5,100 tons of waste that were dumped in Misamis Oriental.

The move came after the Korean government learned that the company responsible for the garbage shipment made a false declaration when it exported the containers to the Philippines.

In a statement, Kim Sunyoung, Minister Counselor of the Korean Embassy in Manila, said Korean authorities discovered “alien materials” that were not recycled when they inspected the firm’s site in Pyeongtaek City.

“The Korean exporter made a false export declaration of the contents of the shipment, Next page

BANHWANDOENEUN SSEULEGI. Tons of waste shipload from South Korea will be returned to the Land of the Morning Calm after Seoul started legal proceedings for the return of 5,100 tons of waste dumped in Misamis Oriental. DENR Photo

News

A2

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Labor seeks subsidy for workers

By Vito Barcelo

T

HE labor group Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines on Thursday renewed its call to President Rodrigo Duterte to provide a 500-peso food subsidy to minimum wage workers following the 25-peso daily additional wage increase for Metro Manila workers.

The group said that additional amount could not even buy a kilo of the cheapest rice in the market.

The 25-peso increase took effect after

it was posted in the official social media account of the National Wages and Productivity Commission on Nov. 22.

The wage adjustment increased the

minimum daily salary of workers in the private sector to P537 from P512 in the non-agriculture sector.

Those working in sectors like agriculture, retail service or establishments employing 15 workers or less, as well as manufacturing establishments regularly employing less than 10 workers will also have a 25-peso increase in their daily wage.

This means their minimum wage of P445 will now be P500.

In a statement, the ALU-TUCP said the 25-peso wage increase took effect on Thursday but Metro Manila’s workers

did not feel its impact given the high inflation rate.

“Workers are not excited with the increase in their daily pay because the equivalent buying power of P25 is only P17.50 per day these days. It has no impact in helping workers and their families get by,” ALU-TUCP spokesman Alan Tanjusay said.

He said given the small wage increase, the government should step in and fill the gap by giving a 500-peso monthly food subsidy to workers as a temporary measure to raise their eroding buying power.

Party-list solon, team survive helicopter crash

By Maricel V. Cruz

A PARTY-LIST lawmaker and his group were slightly injured after the military chopper they boarded crashed Thursday in Crow Valley in Capas, Tarlac during a military event.

COOP-NATCCO party-list Rep. Anthony Bravo sustained bruises, according to his chief of staff Rene Buenviaje, who confirmed the news based on the information he got from a staff who accompanied the congressman.

But he could not say if Bravo sustained fractures, but expressed belief the lawmaker was not in a critical condition.

In the past, the Philippine Air Force denounced the branding of their fleets as “widowmakers” and “flying coffins.”

Former House Secretary General Ceasar Pareja, another passenger in the chopper, thanked those who had prayed

Seoul...

From A1

which was originally declared as recycled plastic materials in their papers,” Kim said.

The embassy official added that the materials authorities found include “waste wood, metal and other wastes which had not gone through an appropriate recycling process,” and mixed with plastic wastes.

Kim said that Seoul’s Bureau of Customs had also begun a probe into the exporting company to determine whether they submitted the proper documents.

The company in question was also forbidden from shipping containers found in their site as authorities continue with their investigation.

“The Korean government initiated the legal procedure to have the said shipment of wastes be brought back to Korea by issuing a prior notice of repatriation order,” she said.

The garbage shipment from South Korea, which was initially declared as “plastic synthetic flakes,” was released from the Mindanao International Container Port in July.

The shipment, consigned to South Korean company Verde Soko II Industrial Corp., found its way to the firm’s recycling facility in Tagoloan town, where residents complained of foul odor.

Authorities discovered in November that the waste from Korea included dangerous materials such as batteries, bulbs, old electronic equipment, dextrose tubes, and other hospital wastes.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said Verde Soko, which claims the shipment did not contain hazardous materials, is not a registered importer of recyclable materials.

Lawmakers berated the Bureau of Customs for its failure to prevent the entry of the South Korean garbage.

The House committee on ecology, chaired

by Quirino Rep. Dakila Cua, is conducting a probe into the mixed waste that was delivered in January to a warehouse in Barangay Guizo and an open dumpsite in Barangay Tingub, in Cebu.

The waste was shipped back to Jeju, South Korea in February following the local government’s discovery of the irregular disposal of plastics in Tingub.

At a congressional hearing earlier this week, Jessica Delgado of the Cebu port earned the ire of lawmakers when she admitted that her office failed to check the shipment’s harmonized system or tariff code .

She said based on the shipment documents, the cargo was declared as recycled synthetic resin, not waste.

Palace...

From A1

and we will respond to them,” Panelo said in a Palace press briefing.

The Palace official made the remark after some senators raised the possibility of a reenacted budget for January even as the House approved its 2019 budget version this week.

“We’re only speculating that it will not be passed. We have submitted a budget proposal, so it’s the House’s call,” Panelo said, dismissing talk of a reenacted budget next year.

Asked if the Palace was convinced about the passage of the 2019 budget, Panelo said, “Of course.”

He also denied the possibility of “pork insertions” in the proposed budget.

Earlier, Senator Panfilo Lacson said pork insertions were delaying the budget’s passage in the House.

Senator Majority Leader Miguel Zubiri said the government might operate on a reenacted budget in the first few weeks of 2019 because the Senate only has six days left this year to debate the budget before going on Christmas beak.

The House approved the 2019 budget on third and final reading only on Tuesday.

for their safety.

“Thanks for your prayers. The pilot suffered head injuries and the crew had a broken arm. I have minor scratches along with most of the passengers. The helicopter crashed just as we were about to land in Crow Valley,” Pareja told reporters.

Informed sources said the other chopper passengers included Baltazar Reyes, Col. Arthur Baybayan, the Sergeant-atArms at the Commission on Appointments, Daisy de Lima, Romeo V. Almonte, 1st Lt. Melvin Betia, and Edilberto M. Mandap.

The team was invited by the Armed Forces of the Philippines for the Training and Doctrine Command when the accident happened.

Reports said that Senator Ralph Recto, a reservist, who attended the event to witness the live fire drill, saw the chopper crash.

DFA...

From A1

activities of the two governments, other authorized enterprises under or pursuant to this memorandum of understanding will be without prejudice to the respective legal positions of both governments. This memorandum of understanding does not create rights or obligations under international or domestic law,” he said.

Locsin also said it was not President Rodrigo Duterte who pushed for the oil and gas deal with China in the disputed waters of West Philippine Sea. He refused to say who pushed for the agreement, however, saying only that it was “within the government.”

“There wasn’t any deal. In fact, even in, well, frankly, it wasn’t being pushed by the President, but there were forces there saying we should come to an understanding, so there,” Locsin said.

In a Twitter post earlier, Locsin said the DFA had “zero knowledge” of the deal.

On Tuesday, Locsin and Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi exchanged the signed agreement entitled “Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation on Oil and Gas Development between the Philippines and China.”

The MOU will create a body—chaired by the DFA and the Chinese Foreign Ministry— to study the possible joint exploration of the West Philippine Sea. Both the Philippines and China set a 12-month deadline “to agree on the cooperation arrangements.”

Locsin then said that no Philippine company has been chosen yet for the oil exploration because of an existing moratorium imposed in 2012. He said he could lift the moratorium, but would need a go-signal from the President.

The deal on oil and gas exploration was among 29 agreements signed by the two countries during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit this week.

China National Offshore Oil Corp. or

New storm...

From A1

This coincided with reports that floodwaters entered homes in Mapanas, northern Samar following the onslaught of “Samuel.”

Once the severe tropical storm enters the PAR, “Man-yi” would be named “Tomas.”

It is forecast to further intensify into a typhoon.

“Man-yi” was estimated at 1,645 kilometers east of the Visayas, or outside PAR. Packing maximum sustained winds of 105 kms per hour near the center and gustiness of up to 130 kph, it was moving west northwest at 45 kph.

“The severe tropical storm has no direct effect on any part of the country at the moment,” Pagasa said.

Reports on “Man-yi” were made as tropical depression “Samuel”—the 19th to hit the Philippines this year—made its sixth landfall in Palawan Thursday.

It was moving westward over the West Philippine Sea, and was forecast to leave the PAR before the week would be over.

As of 11 am Thursday, “Samuel” was spotted at 240 kms west northwest of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan with maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 65 kph.

Meanwhile, floodwaters caused by “Samuel,” wreaked havoc in low-lying communities in three Samar

Housing exec...

From A1

my resignation this morning. It is the government’s loss, not mine,” Millar said in a statement.

“I urge the government to dig deeper and investigate the persons behind the demolition job,” said Millar who was sworn into office in September 2017.

NOISE BARRAGE. Farmers and members of a

watch group dramatize their protest against the rice tariffication bill in front of the Senate building in Pasay City while a bicameral panel holds a meeting on the proposed measure that the groups say would only put the country's food security and self-sufficiency efforts in jeopardy.

Lino Santos

CNOOC will serve as the “Chinese enterprise,” while Manila will authorize its Filipino counterpart from those with service contracts in the area.

In March, PXP Energy said its chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan sent feelers to the CNOOC for possible joint exploration in the disputed South China Sea. Senator Francis Escudero reiterated his call for the government to make public details of the agreements signed with China, particularly the one on oil and gas exploration.

Escudero recalled that during the Arroyo administration, the Philippines, China and Vietnam entered into an agreement to jointly conduct oil offshore exploration covering both disputed and undisputed waters, also known as the Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking.

However, he said, the agreement was between the countries’ respective oil companies.

He warned that the MOU could have implications on the Philippines’ claims in the West Philippine Sea. Senate President Pro Temporer Ralph Recto said if the Senate will start floor debates on the 2019 national budget next month, then Cabinet members might be called upon to provide particulars of any of the 29 deals signed during Xi’s state visit.

“More so if the agreement binds us to a project which will be financed by loans, enlarges the national debt, or requires large budgetary counterpart requiring yearly appropriations.

Is the project really needed by the people? Or is it supplier driven?” he said.

The price tag of these commitments, he said, must be explained, as well as the benefits to the public. If these are grants and interest-free loans, then the Senate will be advised as well so that it can convey its thanks.

Senator Panfilo Lacson, on the other hand, said it was unfair to accuse President Duterte of having sold the country to the Chinese.

Until and unless the executive makes public the MOUs and MOAs signed during Xi’s state visit, it is premature to draw conclusions, Lacson added. provinces killing one person and forcing thousands of residents to move to higher grounds on Wednesday.

Residents of Magsaysay village in Palapag, Northern Samar found the body of their neighbor Ronel Quibal, 23 past noon on Wednesday.

He went missing late Tuesday afternoon when raging waters swept him away while passing a flooded road aboard a motorcycle.

The Office of Civil Defense regional office received reports of massive evacuation in the towns of San Roque, Mapanas, Pambujan, Palapag, Gamay, Lope de Vega, and San Isidro in Northern Samar province.

Floods also submerged some villages in Catubig town.

In Eastern Samar, evacuations were reported in Taft, Can-avid, Oras, San Julian, and Hernani. Flooding also displaced thousands of families in the towns of Arteche, Guiuan, and Sulat though some families opted to stay in their homes.

Other areas with evacuated families are Paranas and Calbayog City in Samar; Kawayan, Biliran; and Saint Bernard, Southern Leyte.

Power supply is still down as of Wednesday noon in the towns of Catubig, Las Navas, and Lapinig, Northern Samar as well as in the island towns of Almagro, Tarangnan, and Zumarraga in Samar province.

Rio Araja, PNA Duterte did not elaborate on the alleged corruption cases against Millar, but he signed the order dismissing him before he left Malacañang on Thursday to attend the event in Cavite.

“I was reading the resume’ earlier. Valedictorian in law class and everything, but I don’t know,” Duterte said, adding that somewhere along the way corruption “creeps in.”

“I am having a hard time combating cor-

Massacre victims...

From A1

and relief, for we have waited too long and have given so much to the case over the years. We have full confidence that the evidence presented is enough to prove Datu Unsay’s guilt beyond reasonable doubt, and we await the verdict with cautious hope,” they said, referring to Andal Jr. by his nickname.

They said the decision would go down in Philippine history as one of the most significant legal decisions, regardless of the outcome.

Early this week, acting Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said he received the information from prosecutors handling the case against Andal Jr. that it is now submitted for decision.

With this development, the court is expected to set the promulgation of the case, where Solis Reyes will decide whether to convict or acquit Ampatuan and the other accused.

“The court has yet to set the date of promulgation, which will cover Unsay and all other accused—except those who were belatedly arrested,” Fadullon said.

Earlier, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra expressed confidence that the case remaind on track to be completed this year.

Prosecutors were confident they had built a solid case, despite the recantation of one of their witnesses, Thonti Lawani, on Ampatuan’s involvement in the massacre.

Lawani claimed he was pressured by the family of Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu into saying that he saw Ampatuan giving orders to his commanders at a crossing in Sitio Masalay, Ampatuan town on the day of the massacre and that he also saw the convoy of vehicles going toward the hilly portion of the area where the killings took place.

Mangudadatu lost his wife, Bai Genalyn and several other relatives in the massacre.

Guevarra played down the recantation, saying it would not weaken the government’s case against Ampatuan and his coaccused.

Gilbert Andres, one of the victim’s lawyers, urged the government to find and arrest the suspects who were still at large, nine years after the massacre.

“Seventy suspects in the Ampatuan massacre are still at large. We are calling on the Philippine National Police and the DILG for their arrest, so that we can have a complete trial of all the accused in the Maguindanao massacre case,” Andres said.

The lawyer said it was important for the victim’s families that evidence has been presented against the accused who have been arrested and tried.

“As to what will happen, we just leave it... to providence and to our courts of justice.

We leave it up to God because we can only do so much,,” he added.

Aside from Andal Jr, also facing the same charges are Zaldy Ampatuan and another sibling, Datu Sajid Islam Ampatuan though he was allowed to post bail by the court in January 2015.

The court also allowed 42 policemen-suspects to post bail, each set at P11.6 million, but only Sajid was able to come up with the amount and gain his temporary liberty.

Another accused, former Maguindanao governor Andal Ampatuan Sr. died in detention on July 17, 2015.

Nena Santos, a private prosecutor for the relatives of the victims, said she believed the judge would rule “in favor of the victims.” ruption, please do not make it really very hard for me to do it,” Duterte said.

In a statement, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said there were no sacred cows in the Duterte administration and that Duterte would not tolerate even a whiff of corruption in the government.

He said Millar’s dismissal would take effect “immediately” but the Palace has yet to issue his termination letter.

Du30 vouches for Honasan at DICT; Recto weighs in

By Nat Mariano MALACAÑANG said Thursday it believes Senator Gregorio Honasan III is capable of heading the Department of Information and Communications Technology amid the questions on his qualification.

Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said President Rodrigo Duterte considers Honasan as a potential DICT head based on trust, confidence and integrity.

He made the statement after Duterte presented to the Commission on Appointments Honasan’s nomination as the next DICT chief.

At the Senate, President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said his unsolicited advice was for Honasan to retain Acting Secretary Eliseo Rio as his Senior Undersecretary and continue serving the public in that capacity.

“For one to step up, there is no need for the other to step out,” Recto said.

He said the nation would benefit from the combined skills of Honasan and Rio. “Two workhorses are better than one,” Recto said.

Panelo said the Commission on Appointments had the final say on whether or not it would approve 70-year-old Honasan’s appointment to lead the highly technical DICT. “There will be vetting there. There will be shearing and you will have to respond to questions on his competence,” Panelo told reporters.

Republic Act 10844 requires the DICT’s secretary, undersecretaries and assistant secretaries to have at least seven years of experience and expertise in any of the following fields: information and communications technology, information technology service management, information security management, cybersecurity, data privacy, e-Commerce or human capital development in the ICT sector.

Once appointed, Honasan will replace DICT officer-in-charge Eliseo Rio who has served as head of the National Telecommunications Commission.

Honasan’s nomination came after the DICT named Mislatel as the Philippines’ third telecoms player.

With Macon Ramos-Araneta

Leaning Tower...

From A1

The tower’s Surveillance Group—set up to monitor restoration progress—said in a statement that after 17 years of observation “the Tower of Pisa is stable and very slowly reducing its lean.”

Engineering professor Nunziante Squeglia of Pisa University said that the 57-meter (186-feet) monument had straightened by four centimeters (1.5 inches), Italian media reported.

The so-called Surveillance Group was set up after Michele Jamiolkowski, an engineer of Polish origin who adopted Italian nationality, coordinated an international committee to rescue the landmark between 1993 and 2001.

The Tower was closed to the public in January 1990 for 11 years over safety fears, as its tilt reached 4.5 meters (15 feet) from the vertical. It has since been straightened by more than 40 centimeters.

The medieval tower, a symbol of the power of the maritime republic of Pisa in the Middle Ages, has leaned to one side ever since building started in 1173. AFP

IS-linked...

From A1

“He was set to go on “Hirjrah”, join the local terrorist groups at any camp in Mindanao and intended to die as martyr of Islam.”

Evangelista said the presence of Anulga in Ormoc City was traced by military and police intelligence operatives based on a tip-off.

He said Anulga was reported recruiting locals in Ormoc to convert to Islam.

He said Anulga was an associate of the late Yusuf Macuto who was involved in a foiled plot to bomb the US Embassy in November 2016, and the main suspect in the Hilongos bombing in December 2016.

Macuto was eventually killed during the battle to liberate Marawi City.

“Anulga’s death shows the government’s conviction in protecting the people from these lawless elements,” said Brigadier General Lope Dagoy, commander of the 802nd Brigade.

“This is a clear message that your AFP and PNP will not tolerate terror groups in our midst.” With Ronald O. Reyes He assured the public that the rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City would continue despite Millar’s dismissal.

Millar also serves as the head of Task Force Bangon Marawi, the inter-agency body in charge of Marawi’s rehabilitation.

“We assure the public that the delivery of public services will continue, especially in rehabilitating Marawi City and other affected areas,” Panelo said.

News

A3

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018 mst.daydesk@gmail.com

DOTr scraps 15-year age limit rule for trucks

THE Department of Transportation has scrapped the vehicle age limit for trucks amid the ongoing ‘truck holiday’ being staged by certain trucking groups to protest the phasing out of trucks which are more than 15 years old.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has issued a memorandum circular which allows truck operators, including those who have units that are more than 15 years, to continue operating on their franchises as long as they pass roadworthiness tests conducted through the motor vehicle inspection system of the Land Transportation Office.

“We will be veering away from the vehicle age policy moving towards the roadworthiness policy in terms of determining roadworthiness of public utility vehicles. During the transition, units that are 15 years old or much older can continue to operate. Once the MVIS is put in place, the policy to determine the roadworthiness of the vehicle will be done through the motor vehicle inspection system,” LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III said in a press briefing on Wednesday.

Department Order 2017-09, which reinforces an earlier order issued in 2002, mandated a 15-year age limit for public utility bus units or trucks for hire covered by a certificate of public convenience.

The transition period for truck operators to replace non-compliant vehicle units under the DO is from June 30, 2017 to June 30, 2020.

“For existing CPCs and pending applications for trucks for hire service there should be a two-and-a-half-year transition period or until June 30, 2020 within which operators of trucks for hire will be required to substitute noncompliant units per DO 2017-09.

PNA

Villanueva files bill ‘fixing’ TRAIN Law, with focus on fuel excise tax SENATOR Joel Villanueva filed a bill seeking to fix the fuel tax increase under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law, which raised the excise taxes on fuel products effective January 2018.

The TRAIN law also provides for additional increases scheduled in 2019 and 2020.

Under Senate Bill No. 2014, the scheduled increases will be suspended, and the excise tax rates will be reverted to their pre-TRAIN rates if all the following three conditions are present for a period of three consecutive months within any period prior to Jan. 1, 2021: a) Inflation exceeds government target; b) Average price of food increases beyond 7 percent; and c) Crude oil price exceeds P4,080 per barrel.

In further explaining the proposal, the senator said that the three conditions will serve as a “circuit breaker” against the undue burden of higher taxes.

“It is unfortunate that our economic managers gave us data and parameters during the deliberations of the TRAIN Law which later turned out to be far from accurate,” said Villanueva.

He noted that their goal now is to fix the law to make it more sensitive to the most vulnerable.

“It is currently self-defeating if we are creating unnecessary burden to the very same people that we wish to help in the first place,” Villanueva added.

Macon Ramos-Araneta

Cancellation of NDF visit their loss, not ours—DND

CUSTOMS PROBE. Blue Ribbon Committee chairman Senator Richard Gordon fields questions to BOC Commissioner Rey Guerrero (left). Also in photo is former BOC Commissioner Isidro Lapeña during the continuation of the Senate public hearing on the 6.4 billion worth of shabu shipment from China. Lino Santos

Senate cites ex-BOC exec, three others in contempt

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

F

OR failing to attend the Senate hearing on the P11billion shabu shipment that slipped past the Bureau of Customs, former Senior Superintendent Eduardo Acierto and three others were ordered arrested after they were cited for contempt.

Senate Blue Ribbon chairman Senator Richard Gordon said that aside from Acierto, others to be arrested were SMYD trading owner Marina Signapan, dismissed Director Ismael Fajardo of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and Emily Loquingan, ex-wife of Pony Chan, also known as Chun Chung, one of the Chinese individuals spotted at the Cavite warehouse where the emptied magnetic lifters containing shabu were discovered.

Former BOC intelligence officer Jimmy Guban tagged Acierto as the one who facilitated the smuggling of billions of pesos worth of shabu in the country.

Guban, who had been placed under the government’s witness protection program, also earlier testified that he and Acierto worked with Fajardo in the smuggling of the shabu.

On the other hand, PDEA has named Signapan’s SMYD Trading as the consignee of the four magnetic lifters

containing the billions of pesos worth of shabu.

“The contempt order is now formal. We are now going to issue contempt orders so we can get these people back here,” said Gordon.

Gordon also warned that if they still fail to show up in the next hearing on December 4, they will be detained inside the Senate detention facility.

“We can’t allow them to run circles around us. This is not a good day to fool around,” he said.

In fact, he said Acierto should have been long arrested. “I don’t know why there is a lot of foot dragging on his case,” Gordon said.

The senator also lamented the failure of Fajardo to show up in the hearing. He noted that Fajardo stopped attending the Senate hearings after his name was dragged in the alleged shabu shipment.

He said Acierto has not also been

attending the hearing. Signapan, meanwhile, did not attend Thursday’s hearing, claiming she was sick.

Gordon looked for Signapan’s medical certificate, but she apparently only sent a text message.

“This meeting was called almost two or three weeks ago... A text is not sufficient, you know that,” he said.

“She’s been trying to evade us. The chair declares her in contempt. We’re not going to let anybody run circles around us,” he said.

Signapan was earlier cited in contempt during the committee’s hearing on Sept. 19 because Gordon said she had consistently lied in her testimonies.

During the hearing, Gordon also presented a picture showing Acierto and Fajardo attending a party when they were consistently absent during the panel’s past hearings.

Fajardo, Acierto, and Guban initially investigated the shabu shipment after receiving information on the case.

However, it was later alleged that they had facilitated the release of the magnetic lifters containing the illegal drugs.

During the hearing, Gordon again slammed Customs and PDEA officials for alleged incompetence as he sought a deeper investigation on the matter.

Meanwhile, self-declared broker Meg Santos has denied being involved in the shabu, belying Guban’s claims.

THE heavy traffic in some parts of Manila during the two-day state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping in Manila this week should be “understandable,” the Palace said on Thursday amid public uproar over the traffic congestion.

“I think that should be understandable given the fact that [in] the Manila area, the work was suspended,” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a Palace press briefing.

The Palace official made the remark after the public complained about the unnaturally heavy traffic that was aggravated by unannounced road closures in some of the main roads in Manila.

“All the motorists would not be passing here because of the security, so they had

to converge in the Makati area and other places, and there will be traffic, all of us, me too,” he said, stressing that even him had to endure the traffic.

“We have to live with that because the concern of the state would be the security of the visiting head of state [Xi],” he continued, adding that he was not aware of any comment coming from President Rodrigo Duterte himself about the traffic situation.

In November 2015, Duterte, who was then Davao City Mayor, lambasted Pope Francis for causing heavy traffic in Manila during the Catholic leader’s visit in the country in January.

But Panelo defended the President’s previous remark, emphasizing that there was a huge difference between the traffic jam caused by Xi’s two-day state visit to that of the Pope’s five-day visit.

“I guess if you compared the traffic the other day as against the Pope’s visit, there is a whale of a difference,” Panelo said in the same briefing.

“That time really took us six, seven, eight, nine, 10 hours; not this one. This one, over two hours only. It took me about that in coming here,” he added.

On Wednesday, Duterte’s security group and the Metro Manila Development Authority seemingly pointed fingers with each other over the road jams during Xi’s visit.

Presidential Security Group said the move to close roads in Metro Manila, which caused traffic congestion during the second day of Xi’s state visit, was the call of the Metro Manila Development Authority and the Philippine National Police.

USP frat celebrates Vinzons’ heroism

TOKA TOKA DEAL. Rebecca ‘Nini‘ A. Ynares, Governor of Rizal Province (left)

Ferdinand de la Cruz-president and COO of Manila Water, lead the seal signing for the Toka Toka partnership agreement between Manila Water, Rizal Provincial Government, City/Municipal mayors and Rizal Association of City/Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officers held at Rizal Provincial Capitol in Antipolo City.

Manny Palmero

IN CELEBRATION of its 100th founding anniversary, Upsilon Sigma Phi fraternity stages “Bintao: Ang Buhay at Kabayanihan ni Wencelsao Q. Vinzons” by Efren Yambot under the direction of Tony Mabesa and Alexander Cortez at the University of the Philippines Theater, Diliman, Quezon City on Nov. 23 at 7 pm and Nov. 24 at 3 pm and 7 pm.

Bintao traces the life and times of Wenceslao Q. Vinzons from his beginnings as a UP student-president of the Student Council and editor-in-chief of the Philippine Collegian to his rise in the political realm as governor and congressman of Camarines Norte, ending to his martyrdom as leader of the Vinzons Guerrillas during the war years. The play tells the story of a Filipino hero whose ideals still resonate to this day.

This production of Bintao serves as one of the highlights of the fraternity’s Centennial Celebration since arts and culture have played a major part in its illustrious history. The cast is composed

of members of the Upsilon Sigma Phi and Sigma Delta Phi Sorority, as well as guest performers from Dulaang UP, Tanghalang Ateneo, and Dulaang Filipino of Benilde, and other theatre groups. Josh Jimenez, a resident Upsilonian, plays the title role, ably supported by Liway Gabo and Chase Salazar as Liway, Bintao’s wife.

Upsilonians and Sigma Deltan thespians in the cast include Vladimir Velasco, Joseph Olfindo, Ding Navasero, Dondi Ong, Fred Tengociang, EJ Ogremin, and Kami De Asis and Sigma Deltans Yoly Pajaro, Fabie Ortiz, and Sarina Sasaki.

The rest of the formidable artistic team composed of Ohm David (set), Eric Pineda & Mitoy Sta. Ana (costumes), Meliton Roxas Jr. (lights), Krina Cayabyab (musical direction and composition), Jethro Joaquin & Jack Alvero (sounds), Winter David & Steven Tansiongco (video), Boy Camara, Bot Jocano & Fritz Esase (movement), and Dino Dimar (photography).

Chavit denies charge on tobacco excise tax FORMER Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson has denied allegations of misappropriation of the tobacco excise tax spent for supposed highly questionable infrastructure projects in the province.

He said such accusation was “baseless and unfounded.”

“That is just politically motivated,” he told the Manila Standard.

Tobacco farmer-leaders belonging to the National Federation of Tobacco Growers and Cooperatives on Thursday asked the government to step into the alleged misappropriation of tobacco excise tax under Republic Act 7171 that should go to projects that would help and boost the productivity and income of the tobacco growers. Rio N. Araja

Cayetano says DQ case has ‘no legal basis’

Heavy traffic during Xi visit ‘understandable’—Palace

By Nat Mariano

IT’S their loss, not ours.

National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that the cancellation of the trip of National Democratic Front chief negotiator Fidel Agacoiili and consultants Luis Jalandoni and Coni Ledesma to the country is not a loss for the government since it is NDF which is desperate to resume the aborted peace talks.

“Hindi kawalan sa gobyerno kung ituloy man o hindi nina Mr. Jalandoni at Ms. Ledesma ang pagbalik sa Pilipinas,” Lorenzana said in a statement. “After all, it is not the government that is desperate to resume peace talks with the NDF [National Democratic Front].”

“It is also not to government that is losing a large number of fighters because of the effectiveness of the localized peace talks and the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program [E-CLIP],” he added.

Communist Party of the Philippines founding chairman Jose Maria Sison earlier said that the NDF top officials canceled their trip to the country for ‘security reasons,’ while also calling the military and police as President Rodrigo Duterte’s ‘minions.”

Lorenzana said Sison’s statement was an insult not only to the military and police but to President Duterte himself.

“Minion is a term of contempt. It means a servile, fawning, and an unimportant person who is at the beck and call of a powerful person,” Lorenzana said.

“This is a great insult to our police and military officers and personnel who are doing their jobs with utmost dedication and professionalism in serving the Filipino people,” he added. PNA

FORMER Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, who is seeking to return to Congress, on Thursday said the disqualification case filed against him and his wife incumbent Taguig City Mayor Laarni Cayetano has no legal basis and branded it as purely political harassment.

The former secretary is running to represent the first district (TaguigPateros) in the May 2019 midterm elections and is gunning to become the speaker of the House of Representatives while his wife Laarni, who is on her third and last term as mayor, is also going after a House seat to represent the second district (Taguig).

But Leonides Buac Jr. questioned their candidacies and filed a petition with the Commission on Elections, saying the spouses absurdly represent that they habitually reside in two different localities.

“A married couple can only maintain one legal residence at any given time, Buac said in his petition.

Joel E. Zurbano REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

COMMISSION ON APPOINTMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENT President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has submitted to the Commission on Appointments (C.A.) for confirmation the nominationof MR. GREGORIO BALLESTEROS HONASAN II, as Secretary, Department of Information and Communications Technology.

The public may submit any information, written report, or sworn/notarized complaints or oppositions in thirty two (32) copies on the above nomination to the CA Secretariat, 6th Floor, PNB Financial Center, D. Macapagal Boulevard, Pasay City, Metro Manila.

For the schedule of the public hearings, the CA Secretariat can be reached through telephone numbers 834-2713, 831-1824, 831-0527, 832-9830, 834-2706 and 551-1989.

22 November 2018.

HECTOR A. VILLACORTA Secretary (MS-NOV. 23, 2018)

A4

Opinion

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Memorandum of understanding otic shoving off the country’s interest in order to put Duterte and our relaCROSSROADS tions with China in a bad light. What should have been a major coup of sorts JONATHAN for the country as we navigate the DE LA CRUZ tricky waters of international diplomacy with what was billed as a major, A MEMORANDUM of understand- even historical, visit by the most powing is a formal agreement between erful Chinese leader in recent memory two or more parties. Companies and was dragged to the gutters on the issue organizations can use MOUs to estab- of MOUs. lish official partnerships.

Using “transparency” as defined MOUs are not legally binding but by them as their cover, Vice President they carry a degree of seriousness and Leni Robredo and some senators went mutual respect, stronger than a gentle- to town demanding that all the MOUs men’s agreement. Often, MOUs are and other agreements signed during the the first steps towards a legal contract. Xi visit be reviewed, insinuating in the In US law, a memorandum of under- process that China is a duplicitous partstanding is synonymous with a letter ner and will only take advantage of us. of intent which is a non-binding writ- Or, worse, that President Duterte canten agreement that implies a binding not be trusted to stand his ground and contract is to follow. work for the country’s best interests.

I had to refer to a legal dictionary to And all because they “need” to check get the above definition of a memoran- whether the two- or three-page MOUs dum of understanding just to ensure will redound to our best interests. that I do not err on Come on, how can the side of ignoa two- or threerance in tackling pager compromise what has become our interests? the most abused Take the case What’s wrong with word this part of of the MOU on the globe during this one? the “Joint Marithe two-day state time Oil and visit of Chinese Gas Exploration President Xi Jipbetween China and the Philiping. Yes, MOU and MOUs were in vogue, on occasion pines” which some senators have aldisparagingly, by a lot of folks many of ready judged as disadvantageous to whom should have known better than the country. These guys even went to even utter it. Such was the contrived the extent of suggesting that the same toxicity which anti-Chinese critics of will compromise our national secuthe Duterte administration brought to rity. How, we don’t know and they did the forefront in a mean effort to deflate not elaborate. Only that they think or the value of this visit. maybe even believe that the same will To no avail. The visit went well not redound to our best interest. without any untoward incident and the Well, here’s the catch. These guys initiatives agreed to by the parties on were waving a so-called Chinese draft a number of fronts may be considered which, if the reports are correct, was breakthroughs following the cool- titled “Framework Agreement on Joint ing of our relations with the world’s Maritime Oil and Gas Exploration second-biggest economy and regional between China and the Philippines.” powerhouse during the past adminis- Nothing definite, just like a letter of intration. tent as advised by the administration.

Indeed, the contrivance was so dis- In fact, DFA Secretary TeddyBoy Locgustingly hollow it only showcased sin even ignored this so-called Chinese the narrow-mindedness of those who draft saying if there is going to be any have it a habit of opposing President draft MOU on the subject it will have Duterte no matter what. Which does to be written by us not the Chinese. So, not, of course, speak well of the stand- he advanced the information that, ining of these people as leaders of note. deed, he wrote the final draft on a piece For how can one be so tricky and un- of cloth which was what was signed by forgiving to the point of being unpatriTurn to A5

Adelle Chua, Editor

EDITORIAL

T

Reenacted budget

HE budget bill is one of the most important pieces of legislation that must be tackled in Congress. It largely spells out the economic direction of a nation in the next calendar year and prioritizes spending to achieve the goals of the administration. In sum, the budget serves as the annual program for alleviating poverty, generating job opportunities and funding the healthcare, social welfare and other basic services needed by our countrymen.

It is, thus, disheartening to learn that the Senate may not approve the P3.757-trillion budget for 2019 before Congress goes on a Christmas break, if the House of Representatives submits it to the Senate on Monday. Senate Majority Leader Miguel Zubiri offered, instead, a reenacted budget for two weeks to a month. The House approved the P3.757-trillion proposed budget on third and final reading on Tuesday.

There’s nothing wrong with working within a reenacted budget until the end of January next year. Government programs receiving funding priority may still be covered by the old budget. But failing to pass the national budget before the end of the year in time for next year’s expenditure program does not reflect well on an institution, the Senate in this case, that is mandated to craft legislation that will benefit the Filipinos in general.

Mr. Zubiri complained of the short time left to deliberate intelligently and lengthily on the many provisions of the proposed 2019 budget. The Senate, as in the past, will likely hold marathon sessions to discuss and debate on the pros and cons of the budget. But as Mr. Zubiri contends, there is no way that the budget will be passed in the Senate before it goes into a recess for the important Christmas break.

The poor, meanwhile, will not enjoy their own Christmas break. For those that have suffered from the typhoons that ravaged their areas and destroyed their livelihood, the increased calamity funds will have to wait until the new budget is in place.

Lawmakers must be reminded that the budget deserves utmost priority from them. It requires little sacrifice from the Senate to get the 2019 budget passed.

Is Panelo speaking for Xi? international relations, he should know that the US or the UN are not the only ones who would help defend the Philippines. Countries like Japan, South ALEJANDRO Korea, Taiwan and Australia also have DEL ROSARIO stakes in the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea lanes for their IF PRESIDENTIAL Spokesman commercial cargo vessels.

Salvador Panelo can’t seem to say International issues are best left to anything right, his best contribution Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teddy would be to keep his silence on matters Locsin, the former Philippine Ambasoutside his area of competence. sador to the United Nations in New Speaking in the aftermath of the two- York. But Locsin was kept busy by the day state visit of Chinese President Xi two-day state visit of the Chinese PresJinping, Panelo said no nation, not the ident so it was Panelo who answered US nor the United Nations, can enforce questions on the enforcement of The The Hague arbitration ruling in favor Hague ruling. of the Philippines.

Aside from the sensitive oil and gas That sounds like abject surrender of joint exploration deal, the Senate wants our sovereign right in the West Philip- to review the 28 other Memoranda of pine Sea where China is staring down Understanding signed between Manila our Navy and and Beijing. I canshooing away not comment on Filipino fisherthese MOUs since men. As it is, I am not privy to many Filipinos their details. Vice I am not for a protesting ChiPresident Leni Rona’s aggression splayed-legs national bredo also urged in our territorial security policy.

Malacanang to be waters and pushtransparent and ing its boundaries make public the through a ninecontents of the dash line in the MOUs. South China Sea were aghast that PanSomehow the 60-40 sharing scheme elo seems to be speaking more for Xi of the oil and gas joint exploration Jinping rather than for the Philippines. was leaked by whistleblowers inside I’m not advocating a saber-rattling Malacanang. Critics pounced on the stand against China but let’s also not deal despite the 60-40 sharing in faconvey a splayed legs national security vor of the Philippines. Why should the policy.

Philippines share with China oil and Even if it’s true that the US nor the gas exploration when it is in the West UN cannot enforce The Hague ruling Philippine Sea—our sovereign terrirejecting China’s sweeping claim of tory? Since the equipment and other nearly the entire South China Sea, why technical tools in the exploration will should Panelo publicly concede it? That surely be provided by China, what is would embolden further China’s ag- the guarantee the Philippines will get gressive stance in the region. Why not its stipulated bigger share of the deal? keep the Chinese guessing whether the The critics’ question, not mine.

US or the UN will step in to intercede Malacañang officials point to in this incendiary issue? the country’s railway, bridges and If Panelo has an iota of knowledge of Turn to A5

BACK CHANNEL

Oopsilon! ’Ninoy’ Aquino Jr. Many other ‘brods’ (brothers) are wealthy, powerful, and influential in society, business, and politics.

The young brods involved in this latest incident made derogatory comTHE century-old Upsilon Sigma Phi ments about women, indigenous peofraternity found itself in a hot mess, and not in a good way, when controversial conversations of younger members of the group were recently leaked on the Internet.

Is this how the Upsilon, founded in 1918, is the fraternity would like oldest fraternity and Greek-letter organization in Asia and the oldest its centenary to be student organization in UP. The group marked? celebrated its centenary last Nov. 18. Its diverse membership includes Ferdinand Marcos and Benigno

ple, LGBTQ+, the poor, and Muslims, among others.

Among the most objectionable ‘lonsi lines’: “Nagpresidente pa housewife lang naman [referring to Cory Aquino].

Nawalan lang ng tite ng lonsi [Ninoy’s] nabaliw na e. Kaya ang babae, sa kuwarto o kusina lang dapat.” Also: “Pinapatay din dapat yung lumad to be fair.” “Kung ang sabon ay inimbento para linisin ang katawan, ang bomba ay inimbento para linisin ang Mindanao.”

There are many such more disgusting and hurtful words, frightening for their violence and hatred of marginalized sectors.

Among those who made public their condemnation of these particular Turn to A5

Rolando G. Estabillo Publisher ManilaStandard

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 832-5554, 832-5556, 832-5558 (connecting all departments), (Editorial) 832-5554, (Advertising) 832-5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www. manilastandard.net

ONLINE

can be accessed at: manilastandard.net

MEMBER

PPI

Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Anita F. Grefal Baldwin R. Felipe Edgar M. Valmorida

Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Treasury Manager Head—Ad Solutions Circulation Manager

Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Joyce Pangco Pañares Adelle Chua

Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor Opinion Editor

Emil P. Jurado

Honor Blanco Cabie Night Editor Jimbo Gulle City Editor Romel J. Mendez Art Director Roberto Cabrera Chief Photographer

Chairman Emeritus, Editorial Board

Opinion

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018

BizNewsAsia honors top tycoons VIRTUAL REALITY TONY LOPEZ ON MONDAY, Nov. 26, 2018, BizNewsAsia will celebrate its 17th anniversary with a gala event at EDSA Shangri-La. It will honor the country’s outstanding taipans, tycoons and splendid success stories in business and governance.

BizNewsAsia is my magazine, founded in 2001, after my 25-year stint with Asiaweek, to fill the void for a powerful medium that focuses on business, the economy, the Philippines, and celebrates the great deeds and great lives of leading tycoons, taipans, and executives in business, government, and the professions. I am the BizNewsAsia president, CEO and publisher.

BizNewsAsia is today the Philippines’ largest business and weekly news magazine with a pass-on circulation of 350,000 readers.

The BizNewsAsia awardees are honored for excellence or exceptional achievements in strategic management and visioning, entrepreneurship, general management, and green entrepreneurship.

BizNewsAsia has an online version, www.biznewsasia.com. It is the only local publication that has a weekly 10-year data on major metrics of the economy.

Three former presidents will also be honored at the anniversary party— Fidel V. Ramos, Joseph Ejercito Estrada, now mayor of Manila; and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, now speaker of the House of Representatives.

To mark its 17th year, BizNewsAsia has a special edition anniversary issue which analyzes the record of movers and shakers in business and the economy, in terms of vision, leadership, and innovation, taking note of the impact of their work on their companies, industry, and society; enhancement of shareholder value, and pursuit of a higher purpose.

The theme of the Special Issue is “Nation Builders.” The 2018 awardees are prominently featured in the anniversary issue.

Profiled in the BizNewsAsia Anniversary Issue are: Ramon S. Ang, vice chairman, president and chief operating officer of San Miguel Corp.; Teresita Sy-Coson, vice chairman of SM Investments Corp. and chairman of BDO Unibank, Inc.; Helen Yuchengco Dee, chairman of RCBC; Felipe L. Gozon, chairman and CEO of GMA Network Inc.; Zenaida R. Tantoco, chairman and CEO SSI Group Inc.; Dennis Uy, chairman and CEO of Udenna, holding company of Chelsea Logistics and Phoenix Petroleum.

Michael Tan, president and COO, LT Group; Reghis Romero, chairman

Oopsilon!...

From A4

students is writer and UP lecturer Ivy Lisa F. Mendoza, who said on Facebook: “What happened to these young men that they have chosen the dark road to psychopathy?... these frat men have become so empowered for being sheer members of Upsilon, perceived as an elite fraternity in UP, that they have become over confident to the point of brazenness and shamelessness…

“These young men have been exposed for who they really are—misogynists, racists, anti-poor sociopaths.”

Mendoza called upon the Upsilon and UP leaderships to “fix this.”

Commenting on Mendoza’s FB post, Wilfredo G. Villanueva, who edited the book ‘One Hundred Years of Light: Anthology of Upsilon Writing,’ said, “I am an Upsilonian and proud of what I have become. My wife and children, sons-in-law, and close friends (they are many, including cherished brods) know me and are happy for what I have become.

Memorandum...

From A4

the parties. Not the earlier one prepared by the Chinese which was the basis for the senators’ outburst.

It was Philippine ambassador to China Chito Sta. Romana who confirmed that indeed what “was signed was essentially the Philippine counter-draft with some new revisions

and CEO, R-II Builders; Jaime Bautista, president, Philippine Airlines; Luis N. Yu Jr., chair emeritus, and Mariano Martinez Jr., chairman, 8990 Holdings.

Lance Gokongwei, CEO of JG Summit and Cebu Pacific; John Paul Ang, president and CEO of Eagle Cement Corp.; Anton Huang, president, SSI Group; Dr./BGen. Antonio Tamayo, chairman-CEO, University of Perpetual Help System DALTA; Nathaniel Romero, president, RGR Holdings.

Amable “King” Aguiluz V, founder and CEO, AMA Education Group; Edgar “Injap” Sia II, chairman and CEO, DoubleDragon Properties; Charito Plaza, director general, PEZA; Delfin Wenceslao, chairman, D.M. Wenceslao and Associates; Eduardo Francisco, chairman, BDO Nomura; Florentino Dulalia Jr., chairman, Dulalia

We will retell their success stories in business and governance.

Group of Companies; Jose Sio, chairman, SM Investments Corp.; Nestor Mangio, principal architect, Nestor S. Mangio Associates; and Elizabeth Lee, founder and CEO, Emotors.

John L. Gokongwei Jr., chairman emeritus of JG Summit Inc.; Manuel B. Villar, chairman and CEO of Vista Land and Lifescapes; Carlos Chan, chairman of Liwayway Oishi Group; Andrew L. Tan, chairman, Alliance Global Inc.; Nestor Tan, presidentCEO, BDO Unibank Edwin Bautista, president-CEO, Union Bank.

From the government sector, featured in the Anniversary Issue are: President Rodrigo Duterte, former President and House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, former president and Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada, former President Fidel V. Ramos, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno, and Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda.

Ramon Ang made SMC the largest, most profitable, most diversified and most development-oriented company thus raising shareholder value and its contribution to nation-building.

Teresita Sy nurtures the Philippines’ three biggest public companies in market cap—SMIC, SM Prime, and BDO Unibank, all three undisputed profit-makers, market leaders and disrupters.

Helen Dee shepherds RCBC through severe challenges by keeping faith in its vision and in its stakeholders, in the process recapturing its premium cache as the mid-market and high-end bank.

Felipe Gozon made GMA Network

the most admired, most respected, most profitable and most valuable TVradio network after 12 years of losses, second-rate programming, and lack of vision and purposefulness. Despite having a third of ABS-CBN’s revenues, GMA Network is hugely more profitable. He is preparing GMA for full digital service and TV on the go.

With innovation and unmatched service quality, Nedy Tantoco became No. 1 in premium retailing with a formidable portfolio of luxury brands sold with enthusiasm, elegance, customer focus, and unrivalled service.

Dennis Uy of Davao built almost overnight the Philippines’ newest highly diversified conglomerate that is now a major player in petroleum marketing, logistics, tourism, education, 24/7 retailing, restaurants, property, gaming, and lately, telco.

John Gokongwei Jr. nurtured enterprises that meet people’s basic needs like food, retailing, property, credit, and low-cost travel, and building the country’s first global Filipino multinational.

Manny Villar is the inspiring ragsto-riches entrepreneur. He cashed in on the unprecedented housing and property boom of the Carlos Chan built the Philippines’ biggest potato chips global conglomerate with a huge presence in eight Asian countries giving wow and value to its customers and proving that the Filipino can compete with the best in the world and beat them.

Andrew Tan built the Philippines’ biggest conglomerate in lifestyle malls with live, work and play values, and the biggest—hotel chain and brands, gaming chain, and high-end fast food.

For 22 years, Nestor Tan has managed the biggest bank in assets, deposits, loans, equity, and management vision with high double-digit growth rates in every measure that counts.

Edwin Bautista manages the best bank in digital banking and use of blockchain to tap the unbanked, thus enriching customer experience in banking, insurance, and asset management.

Jaime Bautista has made PAL the world’s most improved airline and made it four-star in inflight and ground services and products, with the highest safety rating and soon a five-star global carrier.

Luis Yu Jr. and Mariano Martinez Jr. promote financial literacy and built the No. 1 mass housing developer, which delivered over 52,000 housing units in 52 completed projects in 14 years, with more to come.

John Paul Ang manages Eagle Cement, Philippines’ most efficient, most modern, and most profitable cement group, by enhancing its revenue, production and profitability profile to make it the best and most valuable listed Filipino cement company. biznewsasia@gmail.com

“I have read the chat lines. You have read them too and are now aware of our imperfections. I can only say that: 1. I will participate in the processing of this issue; 2. We will turn this into a learning experience; 3. I will stand against any brod who actually said these things just as I will stand against anyone who want to color us in a single brush stroke using a single color.

“I had an interview recently with Erin Tañada. He was 20 y.o. when Ninoy was shot. There were less than 20 kids in the group of Aquino, Tañada, Diokno, Espina, Estrada-Kalaw, Laurel at that time. They were assigned to man the lines forming in Times Street & Sto. Domingo. A UP organization came to help. He said it was Upsilon.”

Villanueva also said, “So please be patient with us. We are there when the nation needs us, so please don’t strike us out for the alleged sins of some of our testosterone-laden young brods.”

Much has been said on both sides, but what is clear so far is that Upsilon is not disavowing the chat. So any future spin that might be made claiming hackery or that it was only a joke will

not be credible.

Upsilon was also in the news recently for engaging in a frat rumble with a rival fraternity following the collegiate basketball game that saw the UP Maroons enter the Final Four after two decades of drought. Is this how Upsilon would like its centenary to be marked?

While frats and sororities swear to uphold high standards of morality and hew to right values and conduct, over the decades they claimed superiority over out-groups and instilled elite mindsets in its members. Much of frat culture is marked by violence, such as hazing and frat wars.

It’s time to bring back the service aspect of frats; otherwise, if they cause more harm than good, they should be abolished. There is no justification for the inculcation of toxic masculinity and misogyny in young people, who are supposed to be our hope for a better society of the future.

and is significantly different from what Senator Trillanes released,” the same draft which Secretary Locsin said he did himself on a cloth. So Trillanes and the senators including Robredo have no place to go except take cover for their harsh and premature exertions. And Ambassador Sta. Romana is right—the draft was a “prelude to a more specific agreement for exploring and finding out if there really is oil and gas that can be exploited in the future.” He advisedly

A5

mst.daydesk@gmail.com

Memo to CEOs: What millennials want vironmental sustainability. While young workers believe that business should consider stakeholders’ interests as well as profits, their experience is ERIC of employers prioritizing the bottom JURADO line above workers, society, and the WHO are the millennials? environment, leaving them with little Millennials are defined roughly as sense of loyalty. those who were born between 1980 Among this year’s key findings: and 2000.

• Perceptions of business are headThey’re digital natives—growing ing south. Millennials’ opinions about up amidst social networks and rap- business’ motivations and ethics, idly evolving technology. They crave which had trended up the past two growth and experiences versus stabil- years, took a sharp turn downward. ity. They’re empowered and entitled.

There continues to be a stark misPhilippines millennials make up match between what millennials beone-third of the total population. lieve responsible businesses should They’re the ones marketers try to achieve and what they perceive busientice and persuade. The ones com- nesses’ actual priorities to be. panies want to hire (if they haven’t • Diversity and flexibility are key started their own). The ones driving to loyalty. Good pay and positive culthe nation’s high growth. They are a tures are most likely to attract both force to be reckoned with. millennials and Gen Z, but diversity, This year, the oldest millennials are inclusion, and flexibility are impor36 years old. As they enter their prime tant keys to keeping them happy. Many years, they’re defining the nation and respondents, especially in the Philipworkplace. They’re also starting to pines and other emerging markets, take care of a new generation. view the gig economy (temporary poAccording to the 2018 Deloitte Mil- sitions or short-term engagements) as lennial Survey, millennial workers are an attractive alternative or adjunct to disappointed in business and are un- their jobs. prepared for Industry 4.0.

• Young workers feel unprepared for Industry 4.0 is a name given to the Industry 4.0. Millennials expressed current trend of admiration for automation and corporations that data exchange. It are adapting to includes cyberand advancing physical systems, Young workers are Industry 4.0 and the Internet of eager for business developing their Things, cloud people to succeed computing, and leaders to be proactive in this evolving cognitive com- about making a positive business environputing. Industry impact in society—and ment. Respond4.0 is commonly ents lack confireferred to as the to be responsive to dence that they fourth industrial employees’ needs. can succeed in revolution. Just an Industry 4.0 think robots and environment and smart, automated are looking to stuff. businesses to help The report is based on the views of them develop the necessary skills, in10,455 millennials questioned across cluding the “soft” skills they believe 36 countries, including 311 from the will be more important as jobs evolve.

Philippines. Millennials included in As seen in previous surveys, comthe study represent a specific group panies and senior management teams of this generation—those who have that are most aligned with millennicollege or university degrees, are em- als in terms of purpose, culture, and ployed full time and work predomi- professional development are likely to nantly in large, private sector organi- attract and retain the best millennial zations. Millennials are increasingly talent and, in turn, potentially achieve taking on senior positions in which better financial performance. Loyalty they can influence how their organi- must be earned, and the vast majority zations address society’s challenges. of millennials are prepared to move, The millennial generation is feeling and move quickly, for a better workuneasy about the future. The growth of place experience.

Industry 4.0 technologies has altered The message is clear: Young workthe nature of work, while political ers are eager for business leaders to be upheavals challenge the established proactive about making a positive imworld order. In this environment, mil- pact in society—and to be responsive lennials yearn for leaders whose de- to employees’ needs. cisions might benefit the world—and Millennials want leaders to more their careers. aggressively commit to making a Building on last year’s report, the tangible impact on the world while survey delves into respondents’ per- preparing their organizations and emceptions of the evolving threats and ployees for the changes that Industry opportunities in an increasingly com- 4.0 is effecting. plex world. For the first time, the surOne silver lining is that far more vey also includes opinions of Genera- millennials believe that business leadtion Z—those following millennials ers are making a more positive impact into the workplace. on the world than government or reliIn a fragmenting social and political gious leaders. Even so, four in 10 reenvironment, with Industry 4.0 driv- spondents see business leaders having ing profound changes, many millen- a negative impact. Therefore, the timnials are exhibiting a marked desire ing is ideal for business leaders to step for reassurance. They feel pessimistic up and take actions that benefit all of about the prospects for political and their stakeholders. social progress, along with concerns about safety, social equality, and eneric.jurado@gmail.com FROM WHERE I STAND

Is Panelo...

Dr. Ortuoste has a PhD Communication degree from UP. FB and Twitter: @DrJennyO

other infrastructure projects China is financing as the benefits we are reaping in the close ties with Beijing.

But critics claim the Philippines is falling into China’s debt trap.

Acting Supreme Court Chief Justice Antonio Carpio disputed China’s historic claim to the entire South China Sea which cited Chinese explorer Zheng He’s visits to Manila, other parts of Luzon and the Visayas way back in the old days of pre-Philippine-China relations. But just because Zheng He visited these parts of the Philippines does not mean China can lay claim to the waters well within our territory.

Carpio, a staunch defender of Philippine territorial sovereignty, insists the country also has ancient maps disputing China’s historic claim. Maps are better evidence than self-serving claims written by Chinese historians, he said.

Senator Risa Hontiveros also urged President Duterte to assert Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine and not kowtow to Xi Jinping. But of course her concern and of the opposition Liberal Party will simply be dismissed by the administration as obstructionist reaction. Fortunately, the Senate decision to review these deals is a bipartisan action. We can expect Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez to be in the hot seat to answer the senators’ probing questions.

noted that “an effort has been made to come to an agreement and to be able to present it to the public and to be able to face the test of judicial scrutiny and constitutionality,” And I might add this, on whether the possibility of a joint undertaking would be legal and constitutional. At this point, no one can even suggest any kind of malice, stupidity or duplicity on the part of the signatories to this MOU. So, what are these guys raising hell over?

Even professor Jay Batongbacal, who heads the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and who is one of the loudest critics of the Duterte administration’s conciliatory gestures to the Chinese noted that the document “doesn’t amount to a contract” and is “more like a record of what they talked about and agreed on in principle.” He had early advised that both sides would “sign some kind of general statement/s or ‘framework’…

with legal and implementation details left out for later.” Which is what happened in the case of this MOU on oil and gas exploration.

There is no question that apart from the loan and commercial agreements as well as consultancy and grants agreements, all MOUs remain as such—an agreement in principle a little more than a gentlemen’s agreement to be fleshed out at some future date.

What’s wrong with that?

From A4

A6

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018

News

DEPED reviles teacher’s slay, wounding of pupil

T

HE Department of Education said it “does not condone such display of violence in schools”—referring to the shooting incident that killed an elementary teacher and wounded a pupil in Bulacan.

In a statement Wednesday, DepEd assured the public that it was consistently working with law enforcement agencies and strengthening necessary measures to ensure that schools continue to be a safe environment for its personnel and learners.

Reports said 40-year-old Ruperto Datwin, a member of the Philippine Army, shot to death his live in-partner Melody Esber, 33, a teacher at the Tambubong Elementary School.

Datwin killed himself after shooting Esber’s chest with a handgun in front of her pupils, where nine-year-old Raine Julian was wounded on his shoulder during the incident.

DepEd extended its deep-

est condolences to the bereaved family of Esber and Datwin. It also confirmed that Julian was wounded and was now in stable condition.

The rest of Esber’s students who witnessed the crime were now undergoing psychological debriefing facilitated by the Schools Division Office of Bulacan’s medical team.

“The SDO of Bulacan, in close coordination with the Philippine National Police-Bulacan, is conducting an investigation on the motive of the suspect. Officials of Tambubong Elementary School have already reached out to the victim’s family to identify and provide the necessary assistance,” the department said. PNA

PRICE WATCH. An unidentified saleslady of a bakery in Quezon City’s Kamuning district arranges her merchandise—with the prices of bread expected to increase this month as the world’s wheat production was affected by the bad weather resulting in shortage of flour and consumers demand. Manny Palmero

SR Metals mining firm gets presidential award

By Macon Ramos-Araneta DESPITE being non-operational for the past six months, a mining firm, owned by a former Liberal Party treasurer earlier accused by President Rodrigo Duterte as a “rogue” miner facing cases of alleged illegal extraction of minerals and tax evasion probe by the Bureau of Internal Revenue, bagged this year’s presidential mining award.

Francis Enrico Gutierrez, owner of SR Metals Inc., received the coveted Presidential Mineral Industry Environmental Award three times in a row now.

The Gutierrez-led firm identified with ex-President Benigno S. Aquino III and defeated presidential candidate Mar A. Roxas II was, as Duterte once cited, “assessed by the government to have violated the laws and fined P77 million, but paid only P7 million.”

Gutierrez was reported as among the financiers of Aquino and Roxas in their presidential bid in 2010 and 2016; respectively.

Another SRMI top executive, Rep. Edgar Erice, served as LP spokesman.

The remainder of the fine slapped on SR Metals Inc. remains uncollected and the SRMI violations remain.

Marginalized miner Rodney Basiana said adding insult to injury was the Presidential Mineral Industry Environmental Award awarded to SRMI from 2015 to 2017.

The PMIEA said the annual award in the Philippines was given for the mining firm’s efforts in achieving environmentally and socially responsible surface mining and mineral-processing operations.

The Philippine Mine Safety and Environment Association said PMSEA, which organized the annual awards as part of the Annual National Mine Safety and Environment Conference, said SRMI was recognized for its surface-mining operation.

Sandiganbayan grants Revilla motion on graft

By Maricel V. Cruz THE Sandiganbayan’s First Division on Thursday granted the petition of former Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. to defer the scheduled graft trial of the former senator next month.

The anti-graft court’s division, headed by Associate Justice Efren dela Cruz, approved the motion filed

by Revilla’s counsel, lawyer Reody Anthony Balisi.

This, after the prosecution posed no objetion to the plea of the defense panel for the postponement of the

resumption the hearing on Revilla’s graft case set for Dec. 6, or a day before the court renders its judgment on the plunder case.

“The hearing on Dec. 6, as prayed for by Atty. Balisi is hereby canceled,” Dela Cruz said, rescheduling the next graft trial of Revilla on Jan. 10, 2019.

Last September, the First Division ended the trial of the plunder case against Revilla after the prosecution and the defense submitted the case for resolution --about four years after the case was filed against the former movie star.

Sports

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018

A7

sports_mstandard@yahoo.com

LeBron cheered in win over former team N

EW YORK—LeBron James made a triumphant return to Cleveland and received a standing ovation from supportive fans before leading the Los Angeles Lakers over the Cavaliers 109-105 on Wednesday.

James scored 32 points, grabbed 14 rebounds and made seven assists to spark the Lakers, who closed the contest with an 18-6 run to win for the sixth time in seven games.

“We cranked up our defense in the fourth quarter,” James said. “They played a heck of a game but we kept our composure. We’re a young crew.

We keep getting better.”

It was an emotional night for James in his first game back leaving the Cavaliers for the Lakers in July, but nothing like his 2010 return after departing Cleveland for Miami and fans, feeling betrayed, booed him.

He left Miami for the Cavs in 2014 and made good on his vow to make the Cavs into champions, so “King” James was treated royally this time.

There were cheers when James trotted onto the court for pre-game warm-

ups, a huge standing ovation when he was introduced and, after James scored on the Lakers’ first possession, a video highlight tribute to huge applause.

“To come back and get the reception I got, it means a lot not only to myself but my family,” James said.

“My 11 years I played for this franchise I tried to give everything I could on and off the court.”

The Lakers improved to 10-7, their best record since April 2013, while the Cavs fell to an NBA-worst 2-14.

- Thunder rout Warriors Reigning NBA champion Golden State suffered a fourth consecutive loss for the first time since 2013 -- 450 games ago -as the Warriors fell at home to Oklahoma City 123-95.

Thunder guard Russell Westbrook had 11 points, 11 rebounds and 13 assists for his 105th career triple double. AFP

Tiger-Lefty: Must-see duel, or cynical cash grab?

LOS ANGELES—A must-see collision between two of golf’s greatest rivals or a cynical multi-million-dollar cash-grab?

Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson will go head-to-head in Las Vegas on Friday with opinion divided over the merits of a contest that will see the winner pocket $9 million.

For many observers, the winner-take-all pay-per-view meeting of the 19-time major winners is at least a decade past its sell-by date.

Mickelson, 48, and Woods, 42, were once fierce opponents, regularly sparring for the sport’s biggest prizes.

Even if the rivalry was uneven -- Woods spent 683 weeks as world number one; Mickelson never managed to occupy the top spot -- the popular narrative endured.

But since their heyday in the late 1990s and early 2000s, however, both Woods and Mickelson have been in steady decline.

While they both recorded victories on the PGA Tour in 2018, it has been five years since Mickelson won a major, while Woods hasn’t hoisted a major since 2008.

And the unmistakable frostiness that once marked their relationship has given way to a warmth that has seen the two play regular practice rounds together.

All of which has meant that attempts to hype Friday’s clash at the exclusive Shadow Creek Golf Course as a grudge match have rung hollow.

Certainly, it has struggled to gain much traction among the leading lights of the tour.

“Look, if they had done it 15 years ago it would have been great,” was the verdict of Rory McIlroy. “But nowadays, it has missed the mark a little bit.”

World number four Justin Thomas was similarly unmoved, saying he was unlikely to part company with the $19.99 fee to watch the showdown on pay-per-view.

“Love TW and Phil to death, but there’s a 0% chance I order that,” Thomas wrote on Twitter last month. “I’ll be watching football!”

- ‘Not golf. It’s vaudeville’ Cincinnati Enquirer sports columnist Paul Daugherty was even more damning. AFP

4 new teams join NCRAA FOUR new teams have just joined the National Capital Region Athletic Association, making the 26th season of the biggest-participated collegiate event more promising when the league starts on Nov. 27 at the Olivarez College Gym. With the theme “Unlocking Our Full Potential,” this season’s leadership headed headed by its president Cesar Hagos of Olivarez College, long-time team executive and former Sta. Lucia Realty board governor Buddy Encarnado as general manager and newly appointed commissioner George Magsino, the league opened its doors to Lyceum of the Philippines-Laguna, Centro Escolar University, Immaculada Concepcion and Pasig Catholic.

These four had taken over the spots of AMA University, New Era, University of Makati and TIP. Defending champion Olivarez College will lead the bidders as it tries to make it back-to-back this season.

Other holdovers include AIMS, De Ocampo, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, Emilio Aguinaldo College, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa, NCBA, PATTS, PMMS, PSBA-QC, St. Francis and University of Luzon.

“We promise to bring the games closer from different parts of Luzon – from the metropolis, to southern Luzon all the way to northern Luzon,” said Encarnado.

TOPS SPORTS FORUM. Games and Amusement Board Chairman Abraham ‘Baham’ Mitra and Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William ‘Butch’ Ramirez graces the maiden TOPS (Tabloids Organization in Philippine Sports) ‘Usapang Sports’ yesterday at the National Press Club Bldg. in Intramuros, Manila. The group is led by People’s Tonight sports editor Ed Andaya (right).

Sky Sports pay-per-view unleashes triple sports action AN action-packed sports weekend awaits SKY subscribers as SKY Sports Pay-PerView brings three highly anticipated sports events, The Match, featuring golf giants Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, Pinoy Pride 45, and the trilogy bout between UFC Hall of Famers Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz this Nov. 24 and 25.

The age-old Tiger Woods-Phil Mickelson rivalry continues in a winner-takes-all match this Nov. 24 (Saturday), 3 a.m., with a bounty worth $9 million dollars. Aside from the pot money, both Woods and Mickelson also have the chance to selectively make challenges that could raise the stakes. Witness this rare golf

event for only P199.

Boxing fans are also up for a triple header championship event in the same day as Jeo “Santino” Santisima defends his WBO Oriental Super Bantam weight against Uriel Lopez.

Cagayan de Oro native and WBO Intercontinental Super Bantamweight champion, Prince Albert Pagara will also put his title on the line against Ghanaian boxer, George Krampah.

Trying his luck, meanwhile, is Kevin Cataraja who will fight against Hugo Reyes for the vacant WBO World Youth Super Flyweight title belt.

Don’t miss the “Pinoy Pride 45: Quest for

Republic of the Philippines ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR AUTHORITY TO DEVELOP, OWN, AND/OR OPERATE DEDICATED POINTTO-POINT LIMITED FACILITIES TO CONNECT THE 19.99 MW BIOMASS POWER PLANT TO THE CADIZ - SAN CARLOS 69 KV LINE, WITH PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY

“T” “U” “V” “W” “X” “Y” ERC CASE NO 2018-013 MC

“Y-1”

SAN CARLOS BIOPOWER INC., Applicant.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

SCBP is currently in discussion with Northern Negros Electric Cooperative, Inc. (NONECO) for the provision of operation, service and maintenance services for the Dedicated Facility Project upon its completion and the commercial operation of the Biomass Power Plant;

8.

As of date, it has secured or is in the process of securing the necessary permits, licenses and authority from regulatory and agencies for its Dedicated Facility Project. It further undertakes to file an application for a Certificate of Compliance with the Commission for the Biomass Power Plant in accordance with ERC Resolution No. 16, Series of 2014.

TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES: Notice is hereby given that on 8 October 2018, San Carlos Biopower Inc. (SCBP) filed an Application dated 5 October 2018, seeking for the authority to develop, own, and/or operate dedicated point-to-point limited facilities to connect the 19.99 MW Biomass Power Plant to the Cadiz - San Carlos 69 KV line, with prayer for provisional authority (Application).

In support of this, SCBP submitted copies of the following documents: Annex “AA” “AA-1” “AA-2”

In the said Application, SCBP alleged the following: 1.

It is a corporation duly organized and existing by virtue of and under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal office address at Circumferential Road, San Carlos Ecozone, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental;

2.

The Application is for the consideration and approval of its proposed development, ownership and operation of an interconnection facility which shall connect the biomass energy power plant to be located at Circumferential Road, San Carlos Economic Zone II, Barangay Palampas, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental (“Biomass Power Plant”) to the Visayas Grid through the Cadiz - San Carlos 69kV line (“Dedicated Facility Project”);

3.

It is a duly registered Renewable Energy Developer of Biomass Resources and the holder of Biomass Renewable Energy Operating Contract No. 2011-12-024 (“BREOC”), by virtue of which SCBP was granted the right to develop, construct, install, commission and operate the Biomass Power Plant. On 31 October 2013, an amendment of the BREOC (“Amendment”) was made reflecting an increase in capacity of the Biomass Power Plant from 18 MW to 20 MW;

4.

SCBP is developing the Biomass Power Plant, which is targeted to commence commercial operations in 2019. In order to test commission and dispatch from the Biomass Power Plant, it shall develop and construct the Dedicated Facility Project, to wit: 4.1. The Dedicated Facility Project is comprised of an approximately 1.5 kilometer single circuit 69kV overhead line using 1x336.4 MCM ACSR conductors extending from the Biomass Power Plant that will tap to the existing 69 kV, double circuit line that was constructed by San Carlos Sun Power Incorporated (“SACASUN”) that connects to the 69 kV San Carlos - Cadiz line; 4.2. The estimated cost of the construction of the Dedicated Facility Project is PhP66,669,687.00 with the following major cost components: PROJECT COMPONENTS 69kV Substation Equipment Transmission Line TOTAL PROJECT COST

Amount (PhP) 62,500,617.00 4,169,070.00 66,669,687.00

4.3. The Dedicated Facility Project will be exclusively funded by SCBP and will, therefore, not impact any regulated charges; 5.

SCBP has identified other options for the immediate connection of the Biomass Power Plant to the Visayas Grid, as follows: 5.1. Tap-connection at NGCP’s Amlan-Guihulngan 69kV Line: The alternative tapping point for the Biomass Power Plant to connect to the Visayas Grid is 58km away at the 69kV line at Amlan-Guihulngan. This alternative connection point will cost the project PhP290 Million with the installation of a new line and acquisition of right of way;

6.

After a review of its options, SCBP has found that connection through the 69 kV Cadiz-San Carlos line is the most cost-effective and viable option for the immediate connection of the Biomass Power Plant to the Visayas Grid.

The Biomass Power Plant is intended to be connected to the Visayas Grid through a new substation to be constructed by NGCP as part of the CebuNegros-Panay 230kV Backbone Project as its final connection point.; In support of the above assertion, SCBP submitted copies of the following documents: Annex “N” “N-1” “O” “P” “Q”

“R”

Nature of Document Conceptual Engineering Design and Drawings; Gantt Chart; System Impact Study; NGCP letter dated 5 March 2012 confirming technical feasibility of Dedicated Facility Project; NGCP Letter dated 17 September 2013 confirming that a rerun of the SIS is not necessary as an increase in capacity to 20 MW does not have significant impact on the grid; NGCP Letter dated 16 March 2016 advising SCBP that the Biomass Power Plant may no longer be optimized using the proposed connection and to consider other connection scheme to fully optimize the power generated by the Biomass Power Plant;

SCBP Letter dated 8 June 2016 advising NGCP that SCBP intends to use the Cadiz - San Carlos 69kV line and the Dedicated Facility Project as in interim connection and the final connection will be at the proposed NGCP’s substation included in the CNP Project instead; NGCP Letter dated 29 June 2016 accepting the SCBP proposal; Interconnection Facilities Study; and NGCP Letter dated 13 February 2017 communicating the results of its review of the Interconnection Facilities Study; NGCP Certification dated 4 October 2018; Extracts of the 2012 Transmission Development Plan; Grid Interconnection Agreement with VMC Rural Electric Services Cooperative, Inc.; and Certification issued by NGCP confirming the pending application of SCBP for a TSA and MSA dated 17 September 2018

7.

x------------------------------------------------------x

5.2. Connection through NGCP’s 138/69 kV Cadiz Substation. Direct connection to NGCP’s 138/69 kV was not considered because it is about 74 kilometers from the proposed power plant site as stated in the Regulatory Assessment for San Carlos 18MW Biomass Power Plant issued by NGCP as Annex to its letter dated 5 March 2012;

NCRAA general manager Buddy Encarnado and tournament commissioner George Magsino attended the referees’ workout as the game officials prepare themselves for the coming 26th season.

“S”

Greatness this Nov.24 (Saturday) at 6:30 p.m. for only P99.

UFC Hall of Famers Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz will go toe-to-toe against each other for the third time this Nov. 25 (Sunday), 7 a.m. See if Ortiz will win this bout after losing twice via knockout to Liddell in 2004 and 2006. Watch out for the last bout of this trilogy for only P199.

To avail of these exciting matches, call 418 0000 or your local SKY office. Available to SKYcable and One SKY with cable in digital areas, and to SKYdirect subscribers nationwide. Also available for streaming on SKY On Demand.

9.

Nature of Document Sworn statement of SCBP’s President, Arthur N. Aguilar NCIP Certificate of Non-Coverage DENR Environmental Compliance Certificate

It is in the interest of the government to help Renewable Energy developers, such as SCBP, to achieve commerciality and commence operations at the soonest practicable time as Republic Act No. 9513, otherwise known as the “Renewable Energy Act of 2008” (RE Act) has declared that it is the policy of the state to “accelerate the exploration and development of renewable energy resource, to achieve energy self-reliance, through the adoption of sustainable energy development strategies to reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and thereby minimize the country’s exposure to price fluctuations in the international markets, the effects of which spiral down to almost all sectors of the economy.” It is in support of this policy that SCBP was established to develop fuel from biomass resources to generate power;

10. The construction of the Dedicated Facility Project is a pre-requisite for the testing and commissioning, and ultimately, the commercial operations of the Biomass Power Plant. A provisional authority is thus urgently needed to enable SCBP to achieve the target commercial operations date of the Biomass Power Plant in December 2018 and avoid adverse consequences to SCBP; 11.

SCBP prays that an Order be issued granting provisional authority for the implementation of the development, ownership and operation of the Dedicated Facility Project to connect the Biomass Power Plant to the Visayas Grid;

12. Additionally, it prays that, after hearing on the merits, a decision be rendered the instant Application; and 13. Likewise, SCBP prays for the Commission to grant other just and equitable reliefs.

The Commission has set the Application for determination of compliance with the jurisdictional requirements, expository presentation, pre-trial conference, and presentation of evidence on 05 December 2018 (Wednesday) at two o’clock in the afternoon (02:00 P.M.), at 15th Floor, ERC Hearing Room, Pacific Center Building, San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City.

All persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the instant case may become a party by filing with the Commission a verified Petition to Intervene at least five (5) days prior to the initial hearing and subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure, indicating therein the docket number and title of the case and stating the following: 1)

The petitioner’s name and address;

2)

The nature of petitioner’s interest in the subject matter of the proceeding and the way and manner in which such interest is affected by the issues involved in the proceeding; and

3)

A statement of the relief desired.

All other persons who may want their views known to the Commission with respect to the subject matter of the case may file their Opposition or Comment thereon at any stage of the proceeding before Applicant rests its case, subject to the requirements under Rule 9 of the 2006 ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure. No particular form of Opposition or Comment is required, but the document, letter, or writing should contain the following: 1)

The name and address of such person;

2)

A concise statement of the Opposition or Comment; and

3)

The grounds relied upon.

All such persons who wish to have a copy of the Application may request from Applicant that they be furnished with the same, prior to the date of the initial hearing.

Applicant is hereby directed to furnish all those making such request with copies of the Application and its attachments, subject to the reimbursement of reasonable photocopying costs. Any such person may likewise examine the Application and other pertinent records filed with the Commission during the standard office hours.

WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson and CEO, AGNES VST DEVANADERA, and the Honorable Commissioners ALEXIS M. LUMBATAN and CATHERINE P. MACEDA, Energy Regulatory Commission, this 8 November 2018 in Pasig City.

JOSEFINA PATRICIA A. MAGPALE-ASIRIT Oversight Commissioner for Legal Serviced M. Standard – Nov. 23, 2018

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

A8

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018

Sports

The duel between Alaska import Mike Harris (with ball) and Magnolia’s Romeo Travis is one of the focal points of the coming PBA Governors’ best-of-seven title showdown starting Dec. 5.

Imports Harris, Travis want title, not awards

By Jeric Lopez BOTH Magnolia import Romeo Travis and Alaska reinforcement Mike Harris couldn’t care less about winning the Best Import award.

That’s because their eyes are all set on potentially leading their respective teams to championship in the 2018 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup. As the Hotshots and the Aces look forward to their anticipated Finals’ encounter ahead, Travis and Harris are itching to get their teams over the hump.

Though they are figuring in a tight battle for the Best Import award, for them, it’s the championship that matters most.

“I don’t really care about that

award,” said Travis, who already won a Best Import award in his first tour of duty in 2015, when he ironically led Alaska to the Finals. “I just want to win a championship.”

Harris echoed Travis’ sentiments as he stated that despite all the attention they are getting, the Finals will not be all about the imports.

“This isn’t about Mike and Romeo,” said Harris. “Championships are way more important.”

While Meralco’s Allen Durham, the two-time reigning Best Import, and Barangay Ginebra’s Justin Brownlee are also candidates for the award, it is expected that the award will either go to Travis or Harris.

The two imports get to test each other for a full best-of-seven finale showcase starting Dec. 5.

Generika hammers Cocolife GENERIKA-AYALA finished the first round on a high note as it hammered a 26-24, 20-25, 25-17, 25-19 victory over Cocolife in the Philippine Superliga All-Filipino Conference yesterday at the Filoil Flying V Centre.

Head coach Sherwin Meneses missed the action, but it didn’t matter as the Lifesavers unleashed their balanced attack to cruise to their fourth straight win in this women’s club tourney bankrolled by Isuzu, Sogo, Asics, Mikasa, Mueller, UCPB Gen and Bizooku with Genius Sports as technical provider.

With the win, Generika-Ayala forged a tie with idle Cignal at the fourth spot with a 4-3 win-loss mark in this battle that also ESPN5, Hyper HD and Aksyon TV as broadcast partners.

Patty Orendain led the scoring parade with 22 points, while Fiola Ceballos unleashed an all-around performance of 20 markers, 13 digs and 13 excellent receptions for the Lifesavers, who gained confidence after bringing down powerhouse F2 Logistics in four sets two weeks ago.

Angeli Araneta and Ria

Meneses were also impressive as they chipped in 18 and 10 markers, respectively, while prized libero Kath Arado registered 31 digs and 21 excellent receptions in a match that took almost two hours to conclude.

“We started the conference with three straight losses. That was tough. But when we won over F2 Logistics, that’s when things turned around for us,” said Generika-Ayala assistant coach Parley Tupaz.

“After that win, we gained confidence, we were able to play at our best.”

By Peter Atencio

T

HE Philippine Azkals are now playing better than ever.

COACH Sven-Göran Eriksson said this after the Azkals found a hole in Thailand’s defensive formation that gave them a chance to force a 1-all draw Wednesday night in a rain-soaked 2018 ASEAN Football Federation Suzuki Cup at the Panaad Park and Stadium.

The coach noted that when the Thais switched from their usual 4-2-3-1 to a 4-3-3 formation, Filipino Jovin Bedic struck with a right-footed shot from outside the box to the bottom left corner in

the 81st minute after getting assisted by John-Patrick Straub.

The draw put both teams on the top of Group B on similar 2-1-0 win-draw-loss records for seven points.

The Singapore Lions (2-0-1) are behind the Azkals and the War Elephants after their 6-1 win over Timor-Leste at the Singapore National Stadium.

The Azkals and the Thai War Elephants are just one ahead of Singapore heading into the final matches on Sunday.

With both in contention for the semifinals, Thailand plays host to Singapore in Bangkok, while the Azkals will be in Jakarta to meet eliminated host Indonesia.

“I think we played well throughout the match and for me, we were the better team as we created more opportunities.

The result was fair. We could have won it,

THE Claret School of Quezon City Alumni Batches ‘78, ‘79 and ‘80 will be staging the 6th Claret Alumni Classic Golf Tournament on Nov. 23 (Friday), at the Villamor Air Base Golf Course.

A record number of golfers from the Claretian community and guests are expected to participate in this annual 18 hole golf tournament. Tee off time is at 8am.

The funds raised from this charity game shall give boost to the resources of the Claret SAMAL Foundation Inc. This pastoral endeavor of the Claretian Missionary Fathers in the Philippines caters to the needs of the most disadvantaged

group in the island of Basilan -- the Samal-Badjaos. The foundation, currently headed by Fr. Martin Ele, CMF, serves as a conduit of resources for extending educational, healthcare and livelihood support.

Major sponsors are Metro Pacific Investment Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, Global Utility Development Corporation, Cherrylume Roofing, Elm’s Cafe, Archipelago Builders, MMDA, NLEX, Motolite, JTI, Asia United Bank, MFH Builders, GAC Philippines Inc., Saber Construction and Development Corporation, Clean Leaf International, Claret Batch 80USA, and The Turf Company.

Peter Atencio

but I’m very happy with the performance of the team. I think they did well against a very good side,” said Eriksson.

The Thais, who have never lost to the Philippines in recent times, were supposed to win when they had a chance to score again in the 85th minute.

But their attempt was was ruled an offside, when Thai booter Sanrawat Dechmitr tried to go for a through ball to Sasalak Haiprakhon.

At that time, the Thais were not pressing higher than they usually do, allowing Cali de Murga and Fil-Spaniard Alvaro Silva to bring possession up to near the halfway line.

Eriksson praised Silva after he was also finally able to suit up for the Azkals, since his presence was key to their central defense.

Palace-Kamao try to boost bid for UNTV semis Games Sunday (Pasig City Sports Center) 2 p.m. – Agriculture vs PITC 3:30p.m. – Judiciary vs PNP 5p.m. – Malacañang-PSC vs Senate

Standings: Group A: AFP (6-0), PNP (4-2), Senate (3-2), PITC (3-3) Group B: Malacañang-PSC (4-1), NHA (4-2), DA (3-3), Judiciary (2-4)

Perpetual spikers begin title defense Claret Alumni Classic Golf on Friday

THE character of the Gilas Pilipinas has been tested. National coach Yeng Guiao said this after the second tuneup game between Gilas Pilipinas’ and Jordan’s game was called off in the fourth quarter last Wednesday night at the Meralco Gym in Pasig City.

“It’s a test of character and I felt that this is the kind of character that we need for the team,” said Guiao.

Gilas led at 82-73 with 6:26 remaining, when Guiao and Jordan mentor Joseph Steibing got into an altercation.

The argument started when Jordanian player tossed the ball at Scottie Thompson.

“We were able to catch up and in the fourth quarter, we were already in the lead by double digits.

It’s a tribute to them (Jordanians) not wanting to be embarrassed in a situation like this,” said Guiao.

On Friday, Gilas next plays Lebanon in a two-game series.

During their second game with Jordan, Gilas overcame a 17-point deficit with a 31-4 blitz for a 69-59 lead with 2:32 left in the third.

Guiao felt that Lebanese players were intimidating and bullying their players throughout the game.

Eriksson: PH Azkals now playing better

Garri Sevilla hopes to rediscover his shooting touch when defending champion Senate battles Malacañang-PSC on Sunday in the UNTV Cup at the Pasig City Sports Center.

Denden Lazaro of Cocolife

Guiao: Gilas’ character was tested

UNIVERSITY of Perpetual Help System Dalta seeks to defend their crowns in the men’s division as it faces off with San Beda today at the start of the 94th NCAA volleyball tournament at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan City.

Led by rookie MVP Joebert Almodiel, the Altas dominated the elimination round and swept their way to the finals in nine games, but found a strong challenge from the Arellano University Chiefs before prevailing in a series that went the full three games to cop their 11th titles.

The Junior Altas, for their part, reigned supreme in the high school side by sweeping the Letran Squires in two games in the finals to grab their 10th juniors’ championship.

Almodiel is expected to be at the forefront of the Las Pinas-based school’s campaign following the departure of Warren Catipay, Rey Taneo and Jack Kalingking, who have all graduated early this year after helping the team win the crown.

Filling the gaping hole left by the veterans are Ridzuan Muhali, Cocoy Ramos, Rnniel Rosales, Gilbert Balmores and rookies EJ Casana, Aljoe Sereno, Louie Ramirez, John Rick Baggayan, Awie Abdullah and John Christian Enarciso.

“We will do our best to preserve the winning tradition of Perpetual Help,” said Perpetual Help coach Sammy Acaylar.

In the women’s section, Arellano U opens its title-retention bid as it tackles JRU at 12 noon, which will precede the Perpetual Help-San Beda game at 4 p.m.

Jose Rizal’s Paul Supan, who heads volleyball’s organizing group, said JRU president Dr. Vince Fabella was invited to give the welcome remarks and will be joined by the national women’s volleyball team represented by Shaq delos Santos, Abi Marano and Mika Reyes as special guests.

“We expect an exciting tournament,” said Supan, who also mentioned the hosting will coincide with JRU’s centennial anniversary celebration in February next year.

MALACAÑANG-Philippine Sports Commission tries to boost its bid for an outright semis berth even as Philippine National Police goes for its fourth straight win when they go up against their separate rivals on Sunday in the 7th UNTV Cup at the Pasig City Sports Center.

The Malacañang-PSC Kamao collide with the defending champions Senate Defenders at 5 p.m. with both teams determined to launch their second-round campaigns on winning notes.

Malacañang-PSC took the solo lead in Group B at 4-1 following the defeat of National Housing Authority to Group A frontrunner Armed Forces of the Philippines, 90-81, last Sunday.

The NHA Builders slipped to 4-2 – the same mark of the PNP Responders who will be facing two-time titlist Judiciary at 3:30 p.m.

The Judiciary Magis, who dropped to a 2-4 card following a stinging 74-72 loss to PITC also last Sunday, need to beat the Ollan Omiping-led Responders and the two other Group A teams – AFP and Senate – if they are to advance to the quarters.

The AFP Cavaliers remain as the only undefeated team with a 6-0 record with the Senate Defenders toting a 3-2 mark in the annual tournament organized by UNTV president and CEO Daniel Razon for public servants.

PITC is looking to follow up its thrilling win the last – its third in six games –when it collides with Department of Agriculture at 2 p.m.

Like the PITC Global Traders, the DA Food Masters are also sporting a 3-3 mark in the event offering P4 million to the chosen charity of the champion team.

IN BRIEF

AUB earned P2.3b in first 3 quarters

ASIA United Bank, the financial arm of the Rebisco Group, said unaudited consolidated net income rose slightly in the first three quarters to P2.3 billion from P2.2 billion a year ago, driven by strong growth in loans.

AUB said in a statement Thursday the January-to-September performance translated into a return on assets of 1.4 percent and return on equity of 11.2 percent.

Boosting its bottom line was the 25.8-percent growth in loans and receivables to P146.1 billion from P116.2 billion a year earlier. Propelling the growth were commercial loans and other loan segments such as auto, housing, and salary loans, which all posted double-digit growths.

“Amid the continuing volatility in the financial markets and the challenging business environment, we remain confident that AUB will show accelerated growth as we cater to the needs of corporates and small and medium enterprises,” AUB president Manuel Gomez said.

Higher loans boosted the groups’ total assets by 18.3 percent to P230.3 billion from P198.0 billion. Julito G. Rada

Business

Huaren Capital picks PH as headquarters

HUAREN Capital of China said it decided to set up its headquarters in Manila, following the successful state visit of Chinese president Xi Jin Ping to the Philippines.

Jeff Wang, president of Huaren Capital and widely considered the “father of bitcoin in China,” said the decision to choose Manila was based on the Philippine government’s support for the blockchain industry and many policy regulatory conveniences.

“The Philippines regards blockchain innovation as a national strategy, providing a large number of preferential policies and services to related companies, and solving the regulatory problems faced by the blockchain industry,” Wang said.

“At the same time, the traditional developing financial industry in the Philippines has created an enabling environment for Huaren Capital to develop innovative financial services. These services, can aid Philippine authorities to use blockchain technology to advanced financial market service systems to the Filipino people,” Wang said.

The Philippines is seen as the springboard of Huaren Capital. “I’m confident that this raging fire from Southeast Asia will shine in the future and become the focus of decentralized revolution,” Wang said.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018

B1

By Alena Mae S. Flores

CAR STORAGE FACILITY. The Philippines’ largest car storage facility rises at the Batangas Port, backed by more than P1.3billion investment from listed port operator Asian Terminals Inc. Inset shows PPA general manager Jay Santiago (third from left), ATI executive vice president William Khoury (fourth from left) and Bureau of Customs Batangas collector Edward Ibera (fifth from left) leading the ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the Batangas Port’s Multilevel Car Storage Facility.

PH, Japan sign P78-b loan for Luzon railway network

By Darwin G. Amojelar

T

HE Philippines and Japan signed a P78billion loan agreement for the construction of the North-South Commuter Railway Extension Project.

The exchange of notes between the Philippines and Japan for the 109-kilometer North-South Commuter Railway Extension Project was signed on Nov. 21, 2018, coinciding with the sixth meeting of the Philippines-Japan High Level Joint Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation.

The signing was witnessed by several Cabinet Secretaries for the

Philippines side, and by Dr. Hiroto Izumi, special adviser to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and Shigeru Kiyama, special adviser to the Cabinet of Japan, for the Japan side.

Approved on Nov. 15, 2018 by the board of the National Economic and Development Authority, the NSCR Extension Project is a part of the 147km. NSCR System Project. It will extend the system to Clark Freeport in the north and to Calamba, Laguna in the south.

Previously divided into three different projects, the NSCR System Project will seamlessly integrate the 38-km. PNR 1 from Tutuban to Malolos, the 53-km. PNR 2 from Malolos to Clark International Airport and the 56-km. PNR 3 from Solis to Calamba.

The NSCR System, with a total project cost of P777.55 billion, will have 36 stations, 58 8-car trains (inclusive of 7 airport express trains), and a double-track fully elevated railway system that will connect Central Luzon, the National Capital Region and Calabarzon.

It will also have seamless transfer stations with Light Rail Transit Line 1, LRT-2 and Metro Rail Transit-3 as well as with the upcoming Metro Manila Subway.

The system is expected to have 340,000 passengers per day when it partially opens in 2022, increasing to 550,000 passengers per day once it becomes fully operational by 2023.

The NSCR Extension Project will be co-financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Asian Development Bank.

BUSINESSMAN Enrique Razon Jr. on Thursday slammed Panay Electric Co. of the Cacho family for alleged inefficiencies that paved the way for his company, More Electric and Power Corp. (formerly More Minerals Corp.), to apply for the franchise to distribute electricity in Iloilo City.

Razon, the majority shareholder of More through his holding firm, said in a statement Iloilo City residents had suffered from Peco’s “poor services, overcharging of power bills with some reaching more than 1,000 percent, accumulated billings due to erroneous meter readings, technical failures, poor customer service, high electricity rates, constant power interruptions and unexplained charges” for decades.

“If Peco had been doing a good job, we wouldn’t have had the opportunity to apply for this franchise and transform it into a modern, efficient, low cost and state-ofthe-art distribution network,” he said.

The Senate public services committee chaired by Senator Grace Poe voted unanimously last month in favor of House Bill No. 8132 granting More the franchise to operate a distribution system in Iloilo City. Peco’s franchise is due to expire on Jan. 19, 2019.

“Four generations of Ilonggos have suffered under Peco. Neither are they heard by Peco, who has not addressed the many pending complaints – numbering 1,800―against it… Clearly, it is time that the Ilonggos are relieved of their misery,” Razon, who also chairs port operator International Container Terminal Services Inc., said.

Razon also rebuffed the claims of Peco that More did not have the qualifications to run an electric company.

“We certainly never want to have the qualifications of Peco. We are exactly the opposite of Peco because we have a track record of success in start-ups and large-scale projects not only in the Philippines but globally,” Razon said.

Electronics sector expects exports to rise 6% to $35b

By Othel V. Campos

LandBank’s 9-month income up 9% to P11.4b

By Julito G. Rada

TELEPERFORMANCE’S AWARDS. Teleperformance Philippines and Teleperformance McKinley (formerly Intelenet Global Philippines) are awarded Top Employer and Executive Leadership Team Circle of Excellence, respectively during the Asia CEO Awards Circle of Excellence. Receiving the awards are Teleperformance Philippines managing director Travis Coates (third from left) and Teleperformance McKinley head of operations Bireswar Singh (fourth from left), along with the senior leadership team, at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay City.

Energy prepares to issue guidelines on joint oil exploration THE Department of Energy expects to come out with the guidelines for the joint Philippines-China oil and gas exploration in the West Philippine Sea within one year, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said.

The Philippines and China agreed to cooperate on oil and gas development as part of the deals forged during the Manila visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping. “[Under] that MOU [memorandum of understanding], we have to sit down immediately and come out with our position and we should do it if I remember it right within a period of no more than one year. That is for us to come out with

business@manilastandard.net extrastory2000@gmail.com

Razon slams Panay Electric for alleged poor services

Australian firm buys TicketWorld

TEG, Australia’s leading ticketing, live entertainment and data analytics company, announced the acquisition of TicketWorld, a leading ticketing company in the Philippines.

Founded in 1995, TicketWorld is a specialist live event ticketing provider for events of all sizes, offering a full suite of ticketing and marketing services.

TEG said the TicketWorld acquisition complemented existing TEG businesses in Asia and was a part of its fast growing Asian expansion effort.

TEG chief executive Geoff Jones said the transaction demonstrated the focus and commitment to expand the business into multiple Asian markets. “TEG is the largest integrated entertainment company in Asia Pacific and we have a track record and accumulated expertise in the live entertainment industry. We see great opportunities in many Asian markets and our strategy puts us on course to becoming a truly pan-Asian promoter,” Jones said.

TicketWorld’s Bob Sewell welcomed the acquisition. “I look forward to working with TEG and its team of entertainment professionals. The opportunity to grow the market in the Philippines by delivering more entertainment choices will be well received in the Philippines,” said Sewell.

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

ways to harness the resources, or do a joint development or joint exploration,” Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said.

Cusi said the agreement focused on how to move forward with a joint cooperation to explore for oil and gas reserves in the disputed areas. No joint exploration agreement, however, was signed.

“Under the MOU, the conflicted area, we are talking about how to develop ways, on how are we going to explore, develop, exploit the resources there,” the energy chief said. “[The] DFA [Department of Foreign Affairs] and DoE will sit down with Chinese counterparts and further dis-

cuss what will be done,” he said.

Cusi also raised the urgency of lifting the moratorium on oil and gas exploration in the disputed areas.

“We want to lift it…but as we do so, we do not want to create problems that we may not be able to handle..There’s also urgency to that but we don’t want to impose a timeline that is not within our control because there are other factors we have to consider…The president is pushing us to solve the problem,” he said.

Cusi cited the need to develop the country’s indigenous resources to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuels. Alena Mae S. Flores

STATE-RUN Land Bank of the Philippines, the third-largest lender in terms of assets, said net income rose 9 percent in the first three quarters to P11.4 billion from P10.5 billion a year ago.

LandBank said in a statement Thursday this translated into a return on equity of 13.15 percent, which remained above the latest industry average.

LandBank posted a 20-percent hike in total assets from P1.48 trillion to P1.77 trillion as of September 2018.

Deposits rose 20 percent to P1.57 trillion from P1.31 trillion, fueled by a steady increase in both private and government deposits.

This makes LandBank the country’s third largest universal bank in terms of assets and second in terms of deposits in the ranking of solo/parent companies.

LandBank president and chief executive Alex Buenaventura attributed the increase in revenue and total assets to higher interest income on loans, which jumped 35 percent as the bank’s gross loan portfolio surged 37 percent to P838.7 billion.

Its capital climbed 22.6 percent to P124.9 billion as of end-September from P101.9 billion a year earlier.

“We are happy about LandBank’s steady growth and solid ranking among the country’s top banks. We are optimistic about capping 2018 on a high note, as income from loans and investments remains strong,” Buenaventura said.

THE semiconductor and electronics sector expects exports to increase 6 percent this year to a record $35 billion from $32.7 billion in 2017.

“It will still be a record year for us but the threat of having onboard a legislative measure that can impact on our productivity and profitability may affect our performance next year,” Semiconductor and Electronics Industry of the Philippines Inc. president Dan Lachica said in a news briefing Thursday.

Lachica was referring to House Bill 8083, or the proposed Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion bill, that aims to reduce the income tax rate from 30 percent to 20 percent while removing the incentives enjoyed by companies.

Lachica said the bill would likely diminish the growth of the semiconductor industry.

Electronics exports reached $3.41 billion in September, comprising 58.58 percent of the total merchandise exports.

The industry said $1 billion worth of planned expansion of electronics firm were diverted to other markets amid concerns by foreign investors over the proposed Trabaho bill.

Lachica said at least four companies already moved out carrying with them billions of dollars worth of expansion investments.

“You’ve seen the reduction in foreign direct investments particularly those at Peza [Philippine Economic Zone Authority]. If fact we have member companies [that] have redirected investments from the Philippines to other countries. It’s gonna eventually translate to jobs being at risk. Because the nature of our industry is that technology moves really fast so the factories here have to be given new product, new technologies. And these come with expansions. But if the expansions don’t happen here, we will be stopped from producing legacy products, which overtime will gonna be obsolete,” he said.

B2

Business

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018 extrastory2000@gmail.com

Market closes flat; Filinvest gains

T

HE stock market closed virtually flat Thursday in dull trading, with investors waiting for the next catalyst that could sustain the recent rally.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index added 2.93 points, or 0.04 percent, to 7,268.38 on a value turnover of P5.4 billion. Gainers beat losers, 107 to 75, with 53 issues unchanged.

ISM Communications Corp., a member of the group declared by the government as the country’s third major telecommunications firm, advanced 7.8 percent to P6.79, while Filinvest Development Corp. of the Gotianun Group, climbed 4.9 percent to P8.50.

8990 Holdings Inc., a mass housing developer, rallied 4 percent to 7.59, while Security BankCorp., the sixth-

biggest lender in terms of assets, rose 2.6 percent to P155.

The rest of Asian equities, meanwhile, chalked up modest gains Thursday in light trading ahead of the US Thanksgiving holiday, following a rebound in energy and tech stocks on Wall Street.

But analysts cautioned the tepid uplift in New York Wednesday should not be interpreted as a sign of the start of a recovery from the recent carnage on global stock markets.

Investor sentiment remains fragile following the volatility that has swept markets since October, while the OECD has warned that the world economy has peaked and faces a slowdown as it confronts the Trump administration’s trade war and tighter monetary conditions.

The dollar slipped against the euro and the pound amid reports the Federal Reserve may pause future interest-rate hikes, although the greenback recovered

earlier losses against the yen.

Crude prices resumed their downward trajectory Thursday, after a brief recovery on Wednesday.

The commodity has fallen by almost 30 percent from four-year highs touched at the start of October. Oil analysts attribute the pullback to high supply as well as a weakening global growth outlook.

“This half-hearted recovery effort should not be confused with anything other than pre-holiday scramble doing little more than what amounted to chasing oil prices,” said Stephen Innes, head of Asia-Pacific trade at OANDA. “Markets have been remarkably muted, even by holiday standards.”

He added the post-Thanksgiving Black Friday shopping spree would be “the ultimate litmus test of US consumer confidence heading into the holiday season.”

Ahead of a Friday holiday in Japan,

the Nikkei rose 0.65 percent as investors took heart from a weakening of the yen earlier in the day.

However, fresh data suggested the world’s third-largest economy is continuing to struggle in its years-long battle with deflation.

Elsewhere, Hong Kong rose and Shanghai closed slightly down, while Sydney was the standout regional performer, gaining 0.9 percent. Shares in Singapore were up even as the tradereliant city-state braces for slower economic growth next year as demand in key markets in Asia weakens.

Inflation in Japan stood at one percent in October, unchanged from the previous month, according to government data.

Japan has battled deflation for many years and the central bank’s ultra-loose monetary policy appears to have had limited impact. With AFP

MANILA STANDARD BUSINESS DAILY STOCKS REVIEW THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2018

VOLUME

VALUE

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

NAME

OPEN

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

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

59.3 91 2.3 125.9 1.49 27.5 15.6 10.7 3.73 1.57 835 0.465 72 0.76 11.2 39.6 175 105.1 74.75 28.7 152.7 1,849 65.85 1.14

59.5 91.65 2.3 127.6 1.58 27.75 15.6 10.7 3.8 1.57 835 0.465 72.75 0.76 11.2 40.7 175 105.1 74.75 28.95 156 1,849 65.9 1.14

59 90.05 2.3 123.8 1.48 27.3 15.5 10.58 3.72 1.57 835 0.44 71.95 0.76 11.1 39.6 172.8 105.1 74.75 28.5 152.5 1,849 65.85 1.14

FINANCIALS 59.25 2,050 91.25 506,900 2.3 3,000 127 1,443,680 1.58 74,000 27.35 137,000 15.5 1,500 10.6 1,556,500 3.8 62,000 1.57 2,000 835 20 0.44 40,000 72 4,831,730 0.76 83,000 11.1 57,500 40.6 70,000 173 1,180 105.1 100 74.75 60 28.9 26,000 155 821,770 1,849 5 65.9 11,900 1.14 326,000

121,673 46,171,372 6,900 182,611,487 109,650 3,757,145 23,280 16,569,300 232,350 3,140 16,700 18,050 349,583,470 63,080 640,250 2,829,200 204,000 10,510 4,485 747,755 127,029,171 9,245 784,183 371,640

118,723 30,900,441 20,517,171 -470,465 -7,266,392 -16,700 107,772,817 -148,440 5,790 54,620,723 -56,005.00 -

ABOITIZ POWER AGRINURTURE ALLIANCE SELECT ALSONS CONS BASIC ENERGY CEMEX HLDG CENTURY FOOD CIRTEK HLDG CONCEPCION CONCRETE A CROWN ASIA DAVINCI CAPITAL DEL MONTE DNL INDUS EAGLE CEMENT EEI CORP EMPERADOR FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG GINEBRA GREENERGY HOLCIM INTEGRATED MICR IONICS JOLLIBEE LMG CHEMICALS MABUHAY VINYL MACAY HLDG MANILA WATER MAXS GROUP MEGAWIDE MERALCO MG HLDG PANASONIC PEPSI COLA PETROENERGY PETRON PHIL H2O PHINMA PHINMA ENERGY PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL PRYCE CORP 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

32.8 17.58 1.08 1.23 0.248 1.9 14.32 36.7 36.5 66.8 1.36 5.81 7 10.7 15.4 8.9 7.04 17.12 63.3 24 1.64 6.53 7.67 1.48 279.8 4.65 3.34 9 25.05 9.5 17.04 388 0.165 5.82 1.36 3.92 7.77 4.5 7.85 0.93 10.9 48.3 5.35 4.7 2 2.81 1.21 9.99 83.6 5.2 0.121 0.85 131 2.32 1.48 17.52 1.46

32.9 17.8 1.1 1.25 0.25 1.91 14.58 36.7 36.5 66.8 1.36 5.82 7 10.7 15.52 8.9 7.04 17.4 64.2 24 1.75 6.53 7.9 1.52 285 4.66 3.36 9 25.25 9.7 17.04 390 0.165 6.16 1.4 3.99 7.87 4.61 8.65 0.93 11.08 48.5 5.35 4.72 2 2.81 1.24 10.18 83.7 5.3 0.121 0.85 133.2 2.32 1.51 17.52 1.72

32 17.2 1.03 1.23 0.24 1.63 14.3 36.3 36.5 66.8 1.35 5.23 6.8 10.36 15.18 8.52 6.92 17 62.2 23.15 1.6 5.96 7.53 1.48 278 4.65 3.34 9 25 9.29 16.68 387 0.165 5.82 1.29 3.92 7.71 4.46 7.8 0.91 10.9 48 5.35 4.68 1.9 2.8 1.2 9.98 83.3 5.2 0.121 0.8 130.8 2.32 1.47 17.5 1.45

INDUSTRIAL 32 890,200 17.54 378,700 1.06 11,961,000 1.25 60,000 0.25 1,220,000 1.73 15,724,000 14.56 58,600 36.3 12,400 36.5 400 66.8 50 1.36 67,000 5.23 20,900 6.8 1,000 10.4 780,300 15.5 387,100 8.52 18,400 6.94 310,700 17.14 1,525,600 64.2 39,780 23.5 2,800 1.73 34,728,000 6.29 137,100 7.8 7,876,000 1.48 29,000 285 589,260 4.65 177,000 3.36 11,000 9 200 25.1 383,400 9.6 466,400 16.68 987,700 388 233,090 0.165 200,000 6.16 5,200 1.29 1,432,000 3.99 39,000 7.82 858,000 4.61 363,000 8.3 14,400 0.91 281,000 11.02 220,300 48.25 1,382,700 5.35 200 4.72 20,000 1.99 36,000 2.8 48,000 1.24 133,000 10.04 63,100 83.35 2,812,000 5.26 598,300 0.121 20,000 0.84 177,000 133 938,410 2.32 225,000 1.5 2,736,000 17.5 3,200 1.71 25,173,000

28,800,215 6,683,316 12,714,490 74,350 301,260 27,303,600 845,982 450,480 14,600 3,340 90,680 118,583 6,820 8,116,288 5,989,764 158,159 2,153,886 26,125,422 2,492,541 66,430 59,208,820 878,864 61,278,975 43,000 166,252,914 823,100 36,880 1,800 9,612,835 4,413,400 16,607,968 90,526,780 33,000 31,898 1,870,390 154,350 6,700,202 1,634,420 119,086 260,790 2,417,420 66,671,065 1,070 94,000 69,000 134,430 160,820 634,271 234,653,347 3,130,194 2,420 144,150 124,416,644 522,000 4,079,700 56,010 40,400,290

568,500.00 366,412.00 -2,363,150 180,370 -2,365,500 616,612 -3,241,488 -542,500 25,670 -1,474,196 -1,396,844 -1,741,220 -4,233,480 -855,363 -28,482,149 62,318,820 3,660,690 383,617 912,396 14,543,380 33,000 -750,370 108,461 -1,097,400 -10,603,485 45,194 51,583,508.50 24,000 -10,800,333 498,800.00 -151,670 -56,010 -77,150

ABACORE CAPITAL ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ASIABEST GROUP ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B AYALA CORP COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV FJ PRINCE A 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 SOC RESOURCES SOLID GROUP TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS

0.55 49.35 10.8 6.33 19.2 1.38 1.39 926 7.01 12.78 8.3 5.5 884.5 5.92 46.9 0.53 3.89 16.44 0.54 4.61 3 0.034 1.15 2.35 172 2.2 920.5 0.79 1.27 269.2 0.235

0.59 49.35 11.1 6.33 21.2 1.41 1.42 935 7.09 12.96 8.58 5.5 885 5.94 47.55 0.53 3.89 16.5 0.55 4.62 3.5 0.034 1.16 2.39 173 2.2 940 0.79 1.31 281 0.246

0.51 48.15 10.74 6.3 19.2 1.35 1.39 913 7 12.6 8.11 5.19 871.5 5.92 46.55 0.52 3.75 16 0.54 4.58 3 0.034 1.15 2.34 171 2.2 910 0.79 1.26 269.2 0.222

HOLDING FIRMS 0.54 69,071,000 48.7 552,200 11 22,110,700 6.3 11,200 19.76 2,619,300 1.38 8,559,000 1.42 571,000 935 123,020 7 186,000 12.9 2,888,200 8.5 14,930,600 5.19 12,000 879 123,610 5.93 1,100 47.3 2,199,400 0.52 22,000 3.82 36,039,000 16.1 4,737,800 0.54 490,000 4.61 14,649,000 3.5 11,000 0.034 100,000 1.15 108,000 2.36 264,000 171.2 66,810 2.2 90,000 914.5 236,180 0.79 4,000 1.31 54,000 281 4,430 0.24 7,910,000

38,100,670 26,841,400 240,716,908 70,596 51,992,159 11,714,160 796,100 113,600,070 1,303,744 37,189,862 125,910,104 65,410 108,485,640 6,521 103,401,380 11,650 135,178,360 76,810,872 264,760 67,449,170 38,000 3,400 124,210 624,490 11,465,808 198,000 217,331,255 3,160 70,070 1,239,918 1,895,570

1,009,990 9,685,820 -62,799,554 63,000 49,639,964 724,300 -14,409,785 327,136 -6,971,826 75,511,050 5,207,180 -60,758,285 40,735,390 6,927,924 -38,918,530 25,833 -18,396,025 12,050

8990 HLDG A BROWN ANCHOR LAND ARANETA PROP ARTHALAND CORP AYALA LAND BELLE CORP CEB LANDMASTERS CEBU HLDG CENTURY PROP CITYLAND DEVT CROWN EQUITIES CYBER BAY DM WENCESLAO DOUBLEDRAGON EMPIRE EAST FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE IRC PROP MEGAWORLD

7.4 0.78 11 1.85 0.52 39.9 2.2 3.9 5.72 0.4 0.85 0.219 0.35 7.59 18.1 0.49 1.45 1 2.52 4.72

7.59 0.78 11 1.85 0.53 40.1 2.2 3.93 5.99 0.405 0.85 0.219 0.35 7.59 18.14 0.5 1.45 1.01 2.56 4.75

7.3 0.75 11 1.85 0.51 39.65 2.16 3.82 5.72 0.395 0.85 0.211 0.35 7.5 18.02 0.49 1.43 0.99 2.45 4.68

131,046,744 542,750 22,000 7,400 398,490 126,538,585 1,004,820 982,100 65,937 691,550 149,600 337,160 66,500 1,542,707 5,133,902 29,500 172,800 1,852,380 33,302,540 ( 13,910,350

-1,315,670 15,579,195 -567,690 15,440 4,050 99,170 -321,222 -12,820 624,709.9999) 7,692,060

NAME

HIGH

LOW

CLOSE

VOLUME

VALUE

MRC ALLIED PHIL ESTATES PHIL REALTY PRIMEX CORP ROBINSONS LAND ROCKWELL SHANG PROP SM PRIME HLDG STA LUCIA LAND STARMALLS SUNTRUST HOME VISTA LAND

0.35 0.46 0.355 3.67 20.65 1.92 3.12 33.3 1.16 4.06 0.68 5.2

0.385 0.46 0.36 3.68 20.7 1.94 3.12 33.7 1.16 4.14 0.68 5.38

0.345 0.455 0.35 3.58 20.2 1.92 3.12 33 1.13 4.05 0.68 5.19

0.38 0.455 0.36 3.6 20.5 1.94 3.12 33.25 1.16 4.1 0.68 5.29

76,700,000 3,170,000 550,000 1,144,000 528,300 32,000 2,000 5,881,100 506,000 206,000 6,000 10,269,100

28,395,400 1,452,550 194,150 4,132,790 10,835,630 61,700 6,240 195,461,465 583,450 839,190 4,080 54,304,901

2GO GROUP ABS CBN APC GROUP APOLLO GLOBAL BERJAYA BLOOMBERRY CEBU AIR CHELSEA DFNN INC EASYCALL GLOBE TELECOM GMA NETWORK GOLDEN BRIA GRAND PLAZA HARBOR STAR IMPERIAL INTL CONTAINER IPEOPLE IPM HLDG ISLAND INFO ISM COMM JACKSTONES LEISURE AND RES LORENZO SHIPPNG MACROASIA MANILA JOCKEY MELCO RESORTS METRO RETAIL METROALLIANCE A METROALLIANCE B MLA BRDCASTING NOW CORP 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

10 19.48 0.345 0.038 1.73 7.6 66 7.79 7.96 5.15 1,935 5.27 319.8 9.53 3.28 1.8 93.9 10.6 7.2 0.097 6.3 3.26 2.87 0.65 12.26 5.39 7.14 1.99 1.44 1.4 16.8 2.97 7.63 3.45 108.4 2.98 1,224 0.65 0.32 42.4 73.9 6.75 2.5 0.61 0.365 5.2 0.485 11.8

10 19.5 0.365 0.038 1.73 7.64 66.55 8 7.96 5.3 1,970 5.27 320 9.55 3.44 1.8 95.2 10.6 7.2 0.097 6.89 3.42 2.87 0.65 13.04 5.47 7.15 2.03 1.82 1.84 18 3.2 7.63 3.5 108.4 3 1,224 0.66 0.33 42.55 73.95 6.75 2.56 0.63 0.375 5.24 0.49 12.08

9.85 19 0.345 0.038 1.67 7.59 66 7.5 7.6 5 1,935 5.2 319 9.53 3.26 1.8 93 10.6 7.2 0.088 6.07 3.26 2.79 0.65 12.04 5.35 7.14 1.99 1.4 1.4 16.8 2.95 7.63 3.45 107 2.88 1,198 0.64 0.32 42.4 73 6.75 2.42 0.59 0.365 5.17 0.475 11.74

SERVICES 9.86 19.3 0.365 0.038 1.72 7.63 66.05 7.86 7.6 5.25 1,952 5.2 320 9.55 3.43 1.8 94.7 10.6 7.2 0.095 6.79 3.42 2.79 0.65 12.9 5.35 7.15 2 1.82 1.84 18 3.14 7.63 3.5 108.1 3 1,208 0.64 0.33 42.5 73 6.75 2.5 0.62 0.375 5.23 0.49 11.92

12,400 143,400 1,950,000 4,900,000 1,077,000 3,786,600 101,290 3,158,200 12,100 168,800 11,310 136,700 1,550 300 1,704,000 5,000 807,260 2,300 500 5,650,000 57,073,900 4,000 138,000 43,000 3,091,100 4,500 4,950,700 2,208,000 1,974,000 169,000 1,000 5,290,000 10,000 20,000 53,940 178,000 38,215 4,231,000 370,000 315,100 243,020 4,100 9,793,000 3,342,000 20,800,000 4,661,800 780,000 2,670,100

123,341 2,768,274 695,900 186,200 1,831,180 28,810,956 6,688,727.50 24,760,373 92,637 878,594 22,080,715 715,663 495,958 2,863 5,734,260 9,000 76,314,464 24,380 3,600 509,620 379,082,094 13,200 386,700 27,950 39,414,536 24,227 35,367,413 4,427,230 3,231,490 275,900 17,704 16,310,720 76,300 69,450 5,815,081 521,270 46,145,415 2,747,680 121,050 13,390,475 17,870,343.5 ( 27,675 24,459,980 2,031,200 7,687,450 24,317,631 378,800 31,789,400

4,929 -78,490 -19,208,058 418,969.50 2,395,568 32,010 10,371,530 -54,960 13,016,906 18,850,433 5,600 2,788,440 -16,170 -20,050 109,000 -5,225,727 -7,210,385 -1,080,460 -4,776,750 14,562,097.5) 966,690 -566,950 109,500 -13,057,380 -5,197,002

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

0.002 1.67 2.36 13.98 1.92 7.01 1.7 0.203 0.101 1.12 1.98 1.02 0.88 0.012 0.012 0.012 3.75 2.65 14.7 25 0.0058

0.0021 1.72 2.36 14.36 1.92 7.19 1.73 0.203 0.101 1.12 2.05 1.02 0.88 0.013 0.012 0.013 3.85 2.66 15.46 25.05 0.0063

0.0019 1.67 2.36 13.1 1.91 7.01 1.66 0.201 0.101 1.1 1.93 1.01 0.85 0.012 0.012 0.012 3.63 2.6 14.44 24.75 0.0056

MINING & OIL 0.0021 95,000,000 1.69 4,790,000 2.36 14,000 13.58 25,000 1.91 410,000 7.03 700 1.72 1,044,000 0.201 70,000 0.101 20,000 1.1 8,000 1.97 8,689,000 1.01 3,000 0.88 327,000 0.013 28,900,000 0.012 10,000,000 0.013 49,500,000 3.63 102,000 2.6 837,000 14.78 9,484,600 24.75 589,600 0.0063 10,000,000

189,900 8,092,180 33,040 338,284 785,100 4,960 1,758,270 14,090 2,020 8,900 17,287,620 3,040 283,080 353,700 120,000 595,900 381,120 2,187,140 141,659,246 14,705,630 59,200

2,100 2,251,820 -7,080 162,660 -6,234,930 -29,240 -1,339,690 -11,095,346 -1,756,455 -

AC PREF B1 ALCO PREF B DD PREF FGEN PREF G GLO PREF P GMA HLDG PDR HOUSE PREF A LR PREF PNX PREF 3B SMC FB PREF 2 SMC PREF 2C SMC PREF 2E SMC PREF 2G SMC PREF 2H SMC PREF 2I

470 98 97.5 102.5 480 5.19 96 1.01 102.1 969 76.2 74.95 74.5 73 73.5

470 98 97.5 102.5 480 5.19 96 1.01 102.1 999.5 76.6 74.95 74.5 74 73.5

470 97.5 97.5 102.5 480 5.01 96 1 102 968.5 76.2 74.95 73.3 72.2 73.5

PREFERRED 470 70 98 6,200 97.5 440 102.5 1,700 480 400 5.04 112,100 96 70 1 855,000 102 200 999.5 4,050 76.5 7,010 74.95 90 73.6 336,000 74 23,500 73.5 120

32,900 606,350 42,900 174,250 192,000 566,529 6,720 856,700 20,405 3,935,975 536,955 6,745.50 24,724,012 1,703,083 8,820

-564,468 725 -

LR WARRANT

1.74

1.74

1.68

WARRANTS 1.68 105,000

178,840

-

ITALPINAS MAKATI FINANCE XURPAS

4.02 2.82 1.05

4.11 2.82 1.1

3.98 2.67 1.04

4.09 2.67 1.09

583,450 13,500 3,292,870

-7,920 80,600

FIRST METRO ETF

107.7

108.2

107.3

150,792

4,328

USD DMPL A2 USD TECH B2

10.1 1.03

10.2 1.03

10.1 1.03

139,257 679.8

-

MS

PROPERTY 7.59 0.75 11 1.85 0.53 40 2.16 3.89 5.99 0.405 0.85 0.219 0.35 7.57 18.06 0.5 1.43 1.01 2.52 4.7

17,591,200 721,000 2,000 4,000 778,000 3,166,300 462,000 252,000 11,400 1,730,000 176,000 1,590,000 190,000 204,100 284,400 60,000 120,000 1,853,000 13,280,000 2,954,000

NET FOREIGN BUYING/(SELLING), PHP

OPEN

TRADING SUMMARY

SHARES

FINANCIAL

11,064,468

INDUSTRIAL

119,392,801

HOLDING FIRMS

191,079,388

PROPERTY

145,393,024

SERVICES

197,197,267

MINING & OIL

220,674,129

GRAND TOTAL

888,048,470

SME

145,000 5,000 3,092,000

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 108.2 1,400 10.2 1.03

DDS

13,660 660

-33,750.00 4,600 28,000 -547,080 1,371,965 32,880 -4,479,935 25,178,788

VALUE 1,709.28 (up) 4.46 821,975,826 FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL 10,716.76 (up) 50.93 1,067,589,358.49 HOLDING FIRMS 7,149.02 (down) 4.63 1,520,445,346.48 PROPERTY 3,491.91 (down) 1.19 SERVICES 1,392.28 (up) 0.79 648,306,095.765 MINING & OIL 8,222.28 (down) 20.20 1,149,628,777.59 PSEI 7,268.38 (up) 2.93 188,966,909.72 All Shares Index 4,375.28 (up) 3.64 5,400,963,155.25 Gainers: 107; Losers: 75; Unchanged: 53; Total: 235

SEC okays ‘wash sales’ offers of DBP, First Metro

By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Securities and Exchange Commission accepted settlement offers worth P2.05 million from former top officials of the Development Bank of the Philippines and First Metro Investments Corp. allegedly involved in the “wash sales”.

The SEC in an order approved the offers made by DBP officials, namely former DBP president and chief executive Gil Buenventura, Lydia Echauz, Vaughn Montes, Rafael Danilo Ranil Reynante and Mariquita Agena, and First Metro and its officers, namely Reynaldo Montalbo, Anna Graziela Banaad, David Ignacio Estacio, Percival Pena, Bernice Joy Nobleza and Jonthan Tabac.

The DBP and First Metro officials offered the settlements pending their appeal of the August 2016 decision of the SEC’s Enforcement and Investor Protection Department finding them in violation of the provisions of the Securities Regulation Code.

“Thus, considering that the settlement offers as approved by the Commission En Banc are already paid and accepted by the Commission accordingly, the the case is now deemed settled without any determination of fault or guilt on the part of Gil Buenventura, Lydia Echauz, Vaughn Montes and Rafael Danilo Ranil Reynante,” the SEC said.

DBP in 2015 was allegedly involved in “wash sales,” in an illegal trading activity in which an investor sells a losing security to claim a capital loss, only to repurchase it again within 30 days of the sale.

State-owned DBP allegedly engaged in over P14 billion of what critics described as “wash sales” that resulted in the booking of P717 million in losses for the government financial institution.

The “wash sales” transactions were made through First Metro, the investment banking unit of the Metrobank group.

The SEC department in August 2016 penalized Buenaventura, Echauz, Montes and Agena for P500,000 penalty each; Reynante with P300,000; First Metro, P1 million; Tabac, P300,000; and Montalbo, Banaad, Estacio, Pena, and Nobleza, P100,000 each.

DMCI Mining doubled 9-month profit to P206m DMCI Mining Corp., a unit of DMCI Holdings Inc., nearly doubled its net income in the first nine months of the year to P206 million from P106 million year-on-year, on shipments of higher-grade ore and increased nickel prices.

DMCI Holdings said in a disclosure to the stock exchange nine-month revenues jumped 40 percent to P978 million from P700 million on year despite just a one-percent increase in nickel shipments from January to September this year. The company had no nickel shipments in the third quarter.

DMCI Mining shipped 482,762 wet metric tons of nickel ore in the ninemonth period from 476,155 WMT the year before.

The average nickel grade from January to September increased 14 percent from 1.52 percent to 1.73 percent year-on-year.

The average selling price, meanwhile, rose 33 percent from $29 to $39.

Majority of the shipments, or 430,000 WMT, came from the old stockpile of Berong Nickel Corp. in Palawan, while the rest were from the inventory of Zambales Diversified Metals Corp.

ZDMC is still awaiting for the reissuance of a port permit while poor weather conditions prevented BNC from making any shipment.

DMCI Mining recognized a P110million loss due to the absence of revenue to cover operating expenses.

“We hope to ship more in the coming months using old and new inventory. The mining suspension order for BNC has been lifted, and the timing could not be better for our employees and host community in Palawan,” said DMCI Mining president Cesar Simbulan Jr. “A lot of them have been in and out of work for nearly two years because of our mining suspension. We plan to rehire our people and subcontractors to normalize our operations,” he added. Jenniffer B. Austria

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Manila

Standard

TODAY

extrastory2000@gmail.com

B3

World

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018 CESAR BARRIOQUINTO, Editor mst.daydesk@gmail.com

IN BRIEF Tourists skip Thailand after ferry disaster

WAITING FOR FAYULU. Supporters of Democratic Republic of Congo joint opposition presidential candidate Martin Fayulu sing and dance as they wait for him to address the crowd after his arrival in Kinshasa to launch his campaign on November 21, 2018. After two years of setbacks, broken promises and delays, the Democratic Republic of Congo on November 21 kicked off the campaign for a crucial election that could alleviate—or perhaps worsen—the decades-long crisis gripping the vast central African nation. AFP

Korea cult leader jailed for raping his followers S EOUL―A South Korean cult leader was convicted Thursday of the multiple rape of eight female followers—some of whom believed he was God—and jailed for 15 years.

Pastor Lee Jaerock’s victims were “unable to resist as they were subject to the accused’s absolute religious authority”, judge Chung Moon-sung told the Seoul Central District Court.

Religious devotion is widespread in technologically advanced South Korea, with 44 percent of people identifying themselves as believers.

Most belong to mainstream churches, which can accumulate wealth and influence with tens of thousands of followers donating as much as 10 percent of their income.

But fringe groups are also widespread -- experts say around 60 people in the country claim to be divine -- and some have been implicated in fraud, brainwashing, coercion and other behavior associated with cults worldwide.

Lee set up the Manmin Central Church in Guro, once a poor area of Seoul, with just 12 followers in 1982. It has now grown to 130,000 members, with a spotlight-filled auditorium, sprawling headquarters, and a website replete with claims of miracle cures.

But three of Lee’s followers went public earlier this year, as South Korea was swept with a wave of #MeToo accusations, describing how he had summoned each of them to an apartment and raped them.

“I was unable to turn him down,” one of them told South

Korean television.

“He was more than a king. He was God,” added the woman, who had been a church member since childhood.

Lee told another that she was now in Heaven, and to strip as Adam and Eve went naked in the Garden of Eden. “I cried as I hated to do it,” she told JTBC television.

Eight women laid criminal complaints, and the court found Lee raped and molested them “tens of times” over a long period.

“Through his sermons the accused has indirectly or directly suggested he is the holy spirit, deifying himself,” the judge said.

The victims believed him to be “a divine being who wields divine power”, he added.

Lee, who denied the charges, stood with his eyes closed as the judgment was read, showing no emotion, while around 100 followers filled the courtroom to overflowing, some of them sighing quietly.

The 75-year-old’s lawyers had accused the women of lying to seek vengeance after being excommunicated for breaching church rules.

South Korea has proven fertile ground for religious groups with strong, unambiguous ideologies that offered comfort and salvation that appealed strongly during times of deep uncertainty.

More recent versions have claimed a unique knowledge of the path to material and spiritual prosperity -- a message that resonates in a highly competitive and status-focused society.

According to a 2015 government survey, 28 percent of South Koreans say they belong to Christian churches, with another 16 percent describing themselves as Buddhist. AFP

BANGKOK―A ferry disaster that killed dozens of Chinese tourists in Thailand earlier this year has sent visitor numbers plunging from the kingdom’s single largest market.

The Chinese make up about a quarter of Thailand’s 35 million annual visitors who are drawn by cheap beach vacations, renowned food and Bangkok nightlife.

But in July a ferry carrying mostly Chinese tourists back to the resort island of Phuket sank killing 47.

August recorded an immediate dip of 12 percent and September Manila brought 15 percent fewer Chinese Standard tourists than the same months TODAY last year.

October was the hardest hit, with the tourism ministry reporting Wednesday a same-period decrease of about 20 percent—or 160,000 people—from 2017.

About $476 million was lost in spending over the three-month period, statistics showed.

Thailand has seen tourism slowdowns following a bombing in 2015 in central Bangkok and a military coup in 2014.

But the prolonged slump of the past few months has been a “wake-up call” for Thailand’s tourism operators, Paul Pruangkarn of the Pacific Asia Travel Association said, as it has pushed the sector to mull its overreliance on one country.

“Too many people have always been focusing too much on getting Chinese tourists,” said Pruangkarn, whose association represents hundreds of businesses around the region. AFP

Five dead as car rams into children in China BEIJING-A car rammed into a group of schoolchildren crossing a street in front of an elementary school in northeast China on Thursday, killing five people and injuring another 18, state media said.

Police took the driver into custody and are investigating the cause of the incident in Huludao, Liaoning province, the official CCTV broadcaster said on its Weibo social media account.

Unverified videos circulating social media show a car veering onto the wrong side of the road and plowing through the line of pupils, the impact from the crash throwing bodies across the road.

Other gut-wrenching footage showed at least two small children lying unconscious and bleeding on the street.

Victims of the crash are undergoing medical treatment, according to CCTV. The incident happened around noon.

Grisly car accidents are common in China, where transportation authorities have struggled to enforce safety regulations.

Earlier this month, at least 13 people died when a bus plunged off a bridge in Chongqing province, after the driver got in a fight with a passenger.

In September, 11 people died when a car struck a crowd in a public square in the central Hunan province city of Hengdong.

Police detained that driver, a man in his 40s, and described him as a “vengeful repeat offender”.

In February, a van packed with pressurized gas tanks and bottles full of petrol caught fire and plowed into pedestrians in Shanghai, leaving at least 18 people injured.

Authorities concluded that it had been a “traffic accident”.AFP

Any person with valid objection/s on the above-mentioned project may file his/her objection in writing, under oath, with the BOI within three (3) days from the date of this publication.

(SGD.) MARY ANN E. RAGANIT Officer-In-Charge Infrastructure and Services Industries Service

(MS-NOV. 23, 2018)

Manila

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES Standard REGIONAL TRIAL COURT

TODAY

FOURTH JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 1 BULWAGAN NG KATARUNGAN PALLOCAN WEST BATANGAS CITY

MARIA JANICE SANTIAGO BINGAYAN, Petitioner, CIVIL CASE NO. 18-10442 -forDECLARATION OF NULLITY OF MARRIAGE

-versus-

FELIPE BINGAYAN JR., Respondent. x-----------------------------------------x

ORDER Considering that petitioner has submitted the affidavit to support the Motion for Leave of Court to serve Summons by Publication and the proof of residency in compliance to the order dated September 14, 2018, the Motion for Leave of Courts to Serve Summons by Publication is hereby granted.

Accordingly, the petitioner through counsel is hereby allowed to effect service of summons upon respondent by publication of the summons in a national newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines once a week for two consecutive weeks pursuant to Section 6 of A.M. No. 02-11-10 SC the rule on Declaration of Absolute Nullity of Void Marriages and Annulment of Voidable Marriages. Pursuant to the same rule, let copy of the summons, the petition and this order be sent to the respondent at his last known address. The respondent shall have thirty (30) days from the last date of publication to file his answer to the Petition.

SO ORDERED. Batangas City, October 3, 2018.

(Sgd.) ISMAEL H. MACASAET Assisting Judge

/lala

I hereby certify that copies of this order have been sent by reg. mail to the respondent; petitioner; Atty. Sharon Ilaw Santonia; and by personal delivery to the Office of the City Prosecutor.

(Sgd.) GLENDA M. LACSAMANA-KING Branch Clerk of Court

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 1 BULWAGAN NG KATARUNGAN PALLOCAN WEST BATANGAS CITY MARIA JANICE SANTIAGO-BINGAYAN Plaintiff/Petitioner CIVIL CASE NO./SP Proc. No. 18-10442 -forDECLARATION OF NULLITY OF MARRIAGE -versusFELIPE BINGAYAN Jr. Defendant/Respondent. x------------------------------------------x

SUMMONS TO:

Felipe Belmonte Bingayan Zone 3 Nabaccayan, Gattaran, Cagayan Valley

GREETINGS: You are hereby required to file with the Clerk of Court of the Regional Trial Court, Batangas City, Branch 1 within fifteen (15) days after the service of this summons upon you, exclusive of the day of such service, your Answer to the Complaint/Petition filed by plaintiff/petitioner, a copy of which together with annexes is hereto attached and herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of said Answer within the same period upon the plaintiff/ petitioner.

WITNESS, the HON. FLORENCIO S. ARELLANO, Presiding Judge of this Court, this 06th day of June, 2018.

(Sgd.) GLENDA M. LACSAMANA-KING Branch Clerk of Court Respectfully, referred to Fernando A. Magcasi, Sheriff IV requesting immediate service and return of the original with your endorsement thereon.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT FOURTH JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 1 BULWAGAN NG KATARUNGAN PALLOCAN WEST BATANGAS CITY

US, S. Korea scale back joint exercise WASHINGTON―The United States and South Korea have scaled down an annual joint military exercise scheduled for the spring of 2019 to facilitate nuclear talks with North Korea, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said Wednesday.

“Foal Eagle is being reorganized a bit to keep it at a level that will not be harmful to diplomacy,” Mattis said, adding that it would be “reduced in scope.”

Foal Eagle is the biggest of the regular joint exercises held by the allies, and has always infuriated Pyongyang, which condemned it as preparations for invasion.

But the drill—one of the world’s largest field exercises involving 200,000 South Korean and some 30,000 US soldiers—was delayed and scaled down last year as diplomatic detente took hold on the peninsula.

And following a historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore in June, US President Donald Trump announced that the US would stop holding joint exercises with the South, calling them expensive and “very provocative”.

Since then the two allies have suspended most of their major joint exercises including the Ulchi Freedom Guardian in August and Vigilant Ace, slated for next month.

But more recently progress in talks with the North has stalled, with the US pushing to maintain sanctions against it until its “final, fully verified denuclearization” and Pyongyang condemning US demands as “gangster-like.”

Washington stations 28,500 troops in the South to defend it from its nuclear-armed neighbor, which invaded in 1950. AFP

N OTICE Notice is hereby given that 8990 HOUSING DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, with office address at 8990 Corporate Center, Negros St., Cebu Business Park, Cebu City, is applying for registration with the Board of Investments (BOI) as an expanding developer of economic and lowcost housing project (Deca Homes Sta. Barbara Resort Residences) with a capacity of 661 economic and low-cost units on a Non-Pioneer status, with project site located at Brgy. Balabag, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo.

MARIA JANICE SANTIAGO BINGAYAN, Petitioner,

-versus-

CIVIL CASE NO. 18-10442 -forDECLARATION OF NULLITY OF MARRIAGE

FELIPE BINGAYAN JR., Respondent. x------------------------------------------x

ORDER Nature of the Petition A verified petition for declaration of nullity of marriage was filed by petitioner Maria Janice Santiago (hereafter referred to as “Janice”) of legal age, Filipino, married to Respondent and a resident of #0130 Delta Road, Sitio Kanluran Villa Jose Subdivision Kumintang Ibaba, Batangas City against Felipe Bingayan Jr., (hereafter referred to as “Felipe”) of legal age, Filipino, married to petitioner whose exact address cannot be ascertained but with last known address at Zone 3 Nabaccayan, Gattaran, Cagayan Province.

PRINCIPAL GROUNDS OF THE PETITION As stated in the petition, both the Petitioner and Respondent have personality disorders which make them both psychologically incapacitated to perform the essential marital obligations. The psychological incapacity of both parties existed prior to their marriage and found to be grave and incurable.

Petitioner was diagnosed to be suffering from PassiveAggressive Personality Disorder which is characterized by and excessive pattern of stubbornness, dependency and covert obstructionism.

PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS. Workers look on as a crane lifts a Christmas Tree—a spruce from the Friuli Venezia Giulia region—into position at St Peter’s Square in The Vatican on November 22, 2018. AFP

Australia eyes stripping extemists of citizenship SYDNEY―Australia unveiled a radical plan Thursday to strip convicted terrorists of their citizenship even if they are native-born Australians.

Acting after a series of jihadist-inspired plots and attacks in the country, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said his government needed expanded powers to withdraw citizenship from anyone found guilty of terrorist activity.

“People who commit acts of terrorism have rejected absolutely everything that this country stands for,” Morrison told a hastily organized press conference.

“This is something that can’t be tolerated, and for those who would engage in this sort of activity, and they have citizenship elsewhere, or we have reason to believe they do, they can go.”

Australia’s current Citizenship Act allows authorities to revoke citizenship from people jailed for six years or more for terrorist activities, but only if they are already dual nationals.

Morrison called these limits “unrealistic” and said the law should be broadened so that anyone convicted of a terrorist offense, even nativeborn Australians, could be expelled if they could “reasonably” be expected to gain citizenship in another country through their parents or grandparents.

The conservative government will submit legislation to amend the Citizenship Act to enshrine these new powers by the end of the year, he said.

The legislation will also seek the power to impose “temporary exclusion orders” on so-called “returned

foreign fighters” -- Australian citizens who travel to conflict zones to fight alongside extremist groups.

Modeled on a British law, the provision would allow Australia to bar the return of a citizen for up to two years, and to impose strict conditions on their activities once they come home.

Morrison’s action came two days after police in Melbourne arrested three Australian-born men of Turkish descent for allegedly plotting a mass shooting in the city.

Less than two weeks earlier, another man who was born in Somalia but came to Australia with his family as a child, went on a stabbing rampage in Melbourne, killing one man and wounding two others before being fatally shot by police. AFP

Respondent on the other hand was found to be suffering from Narcissistic Personality Disorder with underlying Borderline Personality Traits and Partner Relational Problems which is characterized by pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration and lack of empathy beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of context. The personality disorder of respondent is manifested by the following: - He did not heed the latter’s need for consistent affection, support and consideration because because of his own selfish ends. He was unable to recognize his faults and shortcomings.

He is reluctant to show genuine concern, understanding and cooperation to stabilize their relationship because of his selfabsorption. He continually dwells in his destructive routines which worsen the relational difficulties in their marriage. More so, he constantly manipulated her weakness to satisfy his desires.

RELIEFS PRAYED FOR Petitioner prays that after due proceedings that the petition be granted and that an order be issued declaring the marriage of the above name parties Null and void; and other reliefs just and equitable under the premises.

DIRECTIVE Respondent Felipe Bingayan Jr., is hereby directed to file with the Clerk of Court of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 1, Batangas City, within thirty (30) days from the last issue of publication, exclusive of the day of such last publication, his answer to the Petition filed and to serve a copy of the said Answer within the same period upon Petitioner.

SO ORDERED. Batangas City, October 3, 2018.

(Sgd.) ISMAEL H. MACASAET Assisting Judge /lala I hereby certify that copies of this order have been sent by reg. mail to the respondent; petitioner; Atty. Sharon Ilaw Santonia; and by personal delivery to the Office of the City Prosecutor.

(Sgd.) GLENDA M. LACSAMANA-KING Branch Clerk of Clerk (MStandard-Nov. 23 & 30, 2018)

CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK

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

B4

friday, november 23, 2018

LGUs LocaL government units

‘Paskong Pinoy’ to light up San Juan City Hall FoR this holiday season, the San Juan City Hall will become a dazzling spectacle of lights and dancing mannequins in a Yuletidethemed village reminiscent of the cherished Christmas-on-display formerly mounted at the Greenhills Shopping Center.

“We’d like to continue a beloved tradition that many Filipinos had looked forward to for more than a decade of Christmases by staging the Cod show right on our grounds,” said San Juan City Mayor Guia Gomez.

For Gomez, it is also a fitting Christmas gift to San Juan residents as her final term winds down early next year.

The mayor had sought out the Rosarios, the family that created the Cod show in 1957, to bring the decades-old holiday attraction to the City Hall.

“When i look at the display, i cannot help but feel nostalgic and hopeful about Christmas. it is a feeling i want to share with our people when they stroll at the City Hall grounds this holiday season,” said Gomez.

BELENISIMO JUDGING. Tarlac Heritage Foundation Inc. founder Isabel

Suntay (fifth from right) and THFI co-founder Dr. Isa Suntay (second from left) stand with the board of judges of the 11th Belenisimo sa Tarlac 2018 competition at the Philippine Army Nolcom Belen in Tarlac City on Saturday.

Some of the judges were media personalities like columnist Jullie Yap Daza (also inset left, inspecting a stall with Dr. Suntay), TV reporter Ron Gagalac, and photojournalists Rudy Santos and Rhoy Cobilla. The Belenisimo showcases aspects of Tarlaqueño artistry through native, regional, modern, and biblical interpretations of the Nativity scene in various sizes. Lino Santos

‘Dads holding up sr. benefits’

By Joel E. Zurbano

B

EnEFiTS for senior citizens in the City of Makati is being held hostage by majority members of the city’s policymaking body.

Councilor Maria Concepcion Yabut made this accusation on Thursday against her colleagues in the City Council, saying most of them are holding the proposed benefits for seniors hostage to politics.

“The proposed additional P10,000 annual cash gift for senior citizens aged 90 to 99 endorsed by Mayor Abby [Binay] was not immediately taken up by

the concerned committees after the session this Wednesday, as was the usual practice. i urge them not to resort to holding proposed benefits hostage to politics,” Yabut said.

She noted that her office had already sent a letter endorsing the new benefits to the Committees on Social Services, and Laws, Rules and Ethics chaired by Councilors Marie alethea Casal-Uy

and nemesio Yabut, Jr., respectively, but has gone unheeded.

Yabut Jr. of the second district became the council’s new Majority Leader after 11 councilors voted to replace the female Yabut of the first district.

Maria Concepcion Yabut asked why it is taking her colleagues a month to deliberate on the 2019 budget proposal of the city when it could be done in two or three days, as in the past.

“The members of the new majority were also present during the pre-budget hearings conducted last July 4 to 30 with all the departments and offices of the city government. Thus, i see no plausible reason why it should take

them that long to finish the budget review. it appears they are dragging their feet on this urgent matter, to the detriment of our constituents,” Yabut said. at the same time, the former majority floor leader of the City Council also said the new majority insisted on using a smaller conference room to hold the special sessions, even though the main Session Hall was available.

“We owe it to our Makatizens to be transparent. Why do they want to hide the proceedings from the public eye? What possible reason could they have in avoiding a venue where their words and actions can be scrutinized by our constituents and the public?” she wondered.

QC asks for CMP tax exemptions

By Rio N. Araja THE 37-member Quezon City Council has passed a resolution urging the House of Representatives to pass a law exempting community mortgage programs and socialized housing projects from paying estate taxes.

Under City Resolution SP 7622-2018, the grant of estate tax exemptions to the properties would give relief, especially to heirs belonging to middle-class Filipino families who are mostly wage earners.

The release the properties to development and commercial circulation through the CMPs and socialized housing programs by the local and national government would benefit the on-site occupants, “revealing that a substantial number of Filipinos may

not be familiar with the payment of estate taxes,” the measure stated. “as a result, the tax liabilities that accrued may have accumulated huge penalties and surcharges that became burdensome to the family members and heirs of the deceased,” it added. according to the resolution, the heirs often have to sell properties to the on-site occupants who could fund the estate tax including interest and penalties to the disadvantage of informal settler families. non-payment by the heirs of the estate tax after death of the registered owners of the properties will result in the locking up of the properties for development and limit the implementation of CMP, socialized housing projects and direct sale to the community associations.

FOR CENTENARIANS. Four centenarian women receive cash incentives from the government of Quezon Province headed by governor David C. Suarez, and additional cash incentives from 3rd District Rep. Aleta C. Suarez during the 2018 provincial convention of 5,000 senior citizens from the 3rd and 4th Districts of Quezon. Also in photo are (from left) provincial social welfare chief Sonia Layson, board members Sonny Ubana, Dominic Reyes, and Raquel Mendoza, provincial administrator Rommel Edaño, governor’s chief of staff Webster Letargo, and executive staff Matt Florido. Benjie A. Antioquia

‘La Union must be declared an election hotspot’ La Union Reps. Pablo ortega and Sandra Eriguel are in favor of declaring the province as an election hotspot to prevent lawless elements from sowing terror. “i ask the PnP [Philippine national Police] and the national Bureau of investigation to speed up their investigations. The killings have tainted peace and order in La Union. i urge residents to cooperate with authorities to unmask the perpetrators of these crimes,” ortega said.

Eriguel said placing the province under control of the Commission on Elections would ensure that military and police personnel are deployed across the province.

Senator Panfilo Lacson also said La Union seemed to have taken the place of abra, where killings of politicians usually spike during elections. “i think the PnP should exert extra effort and focus on the political situation in La Union. a pattern is emerging,” the senator and former police chief said in a recent forum. interior and Local Government officer-in-charge Eduardo año said he will recommend La Union to be declared as an election hotspot.

This followed the assassination of Balaoan Vice Mayor alfred Concepcion on nov. 14, Sudipen Mayor alexander Buquing on oct. 1, and former Second District Rep. Franny Eriguel ― Sandra’s husband ― on May 12, 2018.

Eriguel, who was also a doctor and former mayor, was gunned down by unidentified armed men during a “miting de avance” on May 12 in Barangay Capas, agoo.

Eriguel and two of his civilian companions were declared dead on arrival, while another died three days later.

Buquing received multiple gunshot wounds on different parts of his body in Bangar town, on his way home to Sudipen on october 1. He was rushed to a hospital, but was declared dead on arrival. His driver and police guard were also killed.

UseP students enhance disaster preparedness STUdEnTS of the University of Southeastern Philippines in davao City have reinforced their disaster preparedness skills by participating in a training organized by PLdT wireless unit Smart Communications, through its brand TnT. The TnT Tropang Ready caravan is a learning activity that tours schools all over the country to boost the disaster readiness skills of students and their friends or “tropa.” The program also aims to mobilize them to lead their families and communities to safety during calamities.

“Students play an important role in disaster preparedness. They have the mobility, the skills and the technological savvy to spread the culture of preparedness,” said Ramon R. isberto, PLdT and Smart public affairs head.

Resource speakers during the caravan included Central 911 Chief Emmanuel Jaldon and representatives from training provider Emergency Management Center (EMC). during the training, USeP students learned emergency preparedness and response techniques, including what to do when an earthquake, a fire, or a strong typhoon strikes.

Millennials Driving T

raffic sucks! Still, most of us filipinos choose to get stuck in traffic inside our own car rather than slug it out in a jeep or bus jampacked with other passengers.

Trendy wanderer if you are looking for a car that will capture everyone’s attention, stick to Hyundai Eon that will perfectly match not just your travel OOTDs but also your character as a fearless person.

Get ready to rev up up your travels as

you drive this five-door hatchback that gives you a comfortable ride even in bumpy roads and highways.

Gather your friends and pack your bags as this car can seat up to five persons. The compartment is spacious enough for a few pieces of luggage.

Price starts: P508,000.00 Elegant, young professional Served as Nissan’s entry in the subcompact category, almera will surely bring out the elegance in you as it showcases refreshing interior and exterior design. Stay fresh even after hours in a traffic jam as this car boasts powerful airconditioning.

Your bags and office things do not need to clutter the back seat because this sedan features a large and roomy trunk. There’s still ample space for your family and friends.

Price starts: P 657,000.00 Sporty youngster But if you are truly #blessed and born with a silver spoon in your mouth, well, we suggest you to go for the Honda Jazz. Popular for its versatility,

The joy of motoring

Best vehicles for long drives WiTH the hustle and bustle of living in the metropolis, city dwellers tend to look for a quick breather to escape the heat of the city and enjoy the beaches and mountain trails in the provinces.

Having a spacious and roadworthy vehicle is always on top of the travel list to ensure a smooth and relaxing journey with your family, friends or co-workers toward destination.

The Manila Standard drew up a list of the best road companions and places you might want to visit for a refreshing change of atmosphere. *Nissan Urvan/NV350 Urvan Standing strong for decades, Nissan Urvan continues to serve travelers with its seating capacity and flexibility. an ideal choice for a large group of people, it can seat 12-15 people. Nissan Urvan is often used for traversing far-flung provinces in the country.

You can visit Mountain province up north with Nissan Urvan and try hiking at the famous Sagada mountain range while savoring the scenic views of nature. You can go to the southern part of Luzon and take pleasure in the Bicol province and appreciate the perfect cone of the world-famous Mount Mayon while grabbing some delicious “pasalubong” to bring back home. *Hyundai Starex/Grand Starex arguably it’s the van that put Hyundai in filipino car owners’ must-have list. With the combination of spacious and adequate safety features, Starex turned into the go-to-van for sudden road trips. considered as the perfect passenger van

c1

its interior design also looks techy and stylish with the sport gauge cluster, color Multi-information Display, and paddle shifters.

Of course, the exterior won’t let you down since it has a sporty front end making it standout from other sedans. Plus its 17-inch alloy wheel shows attitude in style and performance.

Price starts: P850,000.00

By ANGELICA VILLANUEVA

The steadily rising demand for Grab and other TNVS proves that passengers would rather cough up extra bucks for a surefire ride than to wait for heavy traffic to subside. in this category belong the millennials, the young blood who often find themselves in this situation because they love to rove and relax after a very tiring week.

Millennial is a term used to describe the generation born in the year 1982 up to late 2000. With its total population of 71 million worldwide, millennials have become a force to reckon with.

With the incessant fare hikes, you’ must have reached the point of wanting to buy your own dream car. Here are some of the vehicle types that Manila Standard has put together to guide you, millennial or otherwise, in your quest.

FRIday, novembeR 23, 2018

Adventurous musician it is said that when you’re going on a road trip, there are two basic things you should have — maps and music. One good thing about the ford fiesta 2018 is that it emphasizes the word ‘infotainment’ as one of its main selling point.

Touchscreen is user friendly with fewer buttons yet more features so you, as the driver, can focus on your driving.

Millennials are into music and road Millennials love cars and all of life’s little luxuries. trips that this car will absolutely meet the its sporty interior and exterior design ing it spacious and comfortable for the needs. Bring your squad and sing your lifestyle will surely match the adven- whole #fambam. hearts out as you safely drive while on turous in you.

Price starts: P 857,000.00 your destination.

This state-of-the-art car will not just Price starts: P755,000.00 let you show off your character in city Techy enthusiast drive but it can also withstand long considered as ninth top-selling veNo matter what millennial lifestyle you road trips without you frequenting the hicle in 2017 by cars and Drivers, Toyota are in, or even if you are not millennial, pumps. corolla will surely fit the standards of the best car that fits you is a c, and reNever underestimate its compact de- a techy-savvy millennial with its -7-in lief. Make sure that buying a dream car, sign because it can accommodate a fam- touch-screen display equipped with an won’t burn your pocket and leave you ily of five with its 7-inch head unit mak- available Entune™ audio Plus system. impoverished.

due to its practical features that secure the passengers’ safety and convenience.

Try motoring to the summer capital of the Philippines together with your family or friends and your trusty Hyundai Starex. if you’re into festivals and food then you might want to explore the province of Quezon down south and be enthralled by the colorful celebration of its iS a vehicle’s resale value one of rich culture. your considerations before purchasing a car? if it is, your best bet is a pickup *Suzuki Vitara 2018 if you are considering a family-oriented vehi- truck, according to data released by cle, look no farther. Here’ one of the classic cars the world’s leading classifieds platin the 90’s that adapts to the modern changes form, OLX. Vehicles in this particular classification, on average, take about and yet remain the old-friend we love before. compared to the older model, the latest Su- 9 years to lose 50 percent of their sugzuki Vitara was designed as a crossover giving gested retail price (SrP).

Based on a sampling from OLX’€™s the owner the flexibility to carry more passensecondhand car listings in the coungers and travel kits. While this SUV has a very try from august 2017 to august limited seating capacity it boasts well-thought 2018, the extensive data comprise interior that combines a touch of old and new the top 11 automotive brands based making every ride feel cozier than before. on 2017 sales volume.

On average, it Looking for an adventure that’s family-friendly takes 5.10 years for a vehicle‒s SrP and suitable for all ages? Head to Pampanga and to get slashed to half, according to try different activities from different towns and this sampling.

Pickup trucks, multisate yourself with authentic ‘kapampangan’ cuisine. You can try heading to Batangas and make a purpose vehicles (MPVs), and vans, however, performed above average splash in the many world-class beaches. and take more time before they lose 50 percent of their value. *Montero Sport/Toyota Fortuner a number of factors affect the arguably the famous mid-sized SUV rivalry pickup truck’s robust resale in the country, Mitsubishi’s Montero Sport and value,†says Manuel roman, OLX Toyota fortuner continue to dominate and flex Philippines’ Head of cars. € The their muscle in the mid-tier SUV category they versatility and reliability of pickups both showcase a seating capacity that can make them desirable vehicles. in welcome a handful of passengers while having the brand-new vehicle market, light much slicker exterior and interior design.

Montero Sport and fortuner possess am- commercial vehicles--one of which ple power to withstand long-distance driving is the pickup truck--are popular choices among consumers. in the while ensuring comfort of their passengers.

You don’t not need to go too far to bask in secondhand market, the demand the sun and have your intake of ‘vitamin sea’ for pickups remains high. Without an with your friends and co-workers, you can de- oversupply in the market, they keep light yourself with the beaches from Bataan their value well.

Meanwhile, car buyers looking and Zambales or take a quick stroll in Tagaytay for seven-seaters should consider while chomping down on some good food and including MPVs on their shortlist if loving the views of Taal Volcano from your seat. they want a vehicle that doesn’t Whatever type of vehicle you choose for depreciate fast. compared to sport your getaway, just remember to have it utility vehicles (SUVs), MPVs keep checked first.

CHARLES DANTES

Which vehicles have the best resale value? OLX has comprehensive listing their value longer: it takes 7.06 years on average before they lose half of their SrPs. SUVs, on the other hand, slash their value by 50 percent after 5.04 years. The infographic below shows the average number of years it takes before a particular vehicle classification los-

es 50 percent of its SrP. The OLX data shows that on average, three-year-old vehicles retain 62 percent of their SrPs. When automobiles reach their fifth year, they keep 52 percent of their value. On the 10th year, the vehicle’s value becomes 33 percent of its SrP.

C2

Life

friday, november 23, 2018

Bernadette Lunas, Issue Editor manilastandardlife@gmail.com

From left: 'Pink Lotus' (square porcelain) by Vicky Pollisco, 'Blessings' by Terly Chikiamco, and 'Yin Yang' (overlap oval porcelain) by Mee Lee Casey 'Batis' (oil pastel on felt paper)

by Fidel Sarmiento

Coloring lives

C

olors indeed make everything come alive as proven by a recent exhibition of art students of a senior recreation center.

“Coloring lives,” has brought together the works of students in two regular art classes at sunshine Place, Makati.

Colorful pieces from the Acrylic Painting class of Arts Association of the Philippines president Fidel sarmiento, and those from the Porcelain Painting class of Mee lee Casey, a Malaysian expat wife and porcelain painting instructor were mounted, showcasing the talent of both senior and non-senior participants.

The sunshine Place offers art classes to seniors, as well as adults, teens, and kids. At the core of the workshops, are

mentoring sessions in hands-on techniques, application of different brushes and basic strokes, and color rendering.

Participants get to explore different styles in creating still life, landscape, cityscape, underwater, animals, and portrait paintings.

Both sarmiento and Casey have helped the students in discovering their artistic talents—showing that art is for all ages.

In fact, a few Acrylic Painting students have sold a couple of paintings, done commissioned work, and joined several national and local exhibitions.

Porcelain Painting students, on the other hand, have developed a passion for art, and discovered friendships in the process.

Aside from a visual feast, “Coloring lives” intends to bring joy to its beneficiaries, the elderly residents of the san lorenzo ruiz Home. Proceeds from the exhibit will go to the senior home in Pasay City, which has been managed since 2012 by the little sisters of the Poor. The mission of the congregation of French nuns in Manila is to give respect and dignity to the elderly.

'Japanese Garden in Tanaguchi Park' (acrylic on canvas)

by Carminda Regala

For inquiries on the artworks, visit the Sunshine Place at #56 Jupiter St., BelAir, Makati City, or call (02) 856-4162 or (0917) 515-5656, or email seniorhubjupiter@gmail.com.

Sunshine Place president Lizanne Uychaco (first from left) and Casey (fourth from left) with Porcelain Painting students (second from left) Cris Moreno, Tess Colayco, Vicky Pollisco, Terly Chikiamco, Gloria Pe, and Loida Tan.

Tessie Sy-Coson (left) with Porcelain Painting instructor Mee Lee Casey

For the love oF loCal entertainment loCAl entertainment has a new digital partner as Globe Telecom beefs up its video streaming platforms via partnerships with iWant and iflix.

The move aims to offer a more robust library of local shows, movies, and TV series.

“Primetime now means TV anytime you want, anywhere you are. starting this month, Globe customers can enjoy all the local content they love via video streaming with iWant and iflix. With iWant and iflix, Globe continues to give the Filipino consumer access to the best in local streaming content,” said Globe chief executive officer Ernest Cu. Content platform iWant, formerly iWanTV, offers users from the Philippines access to original films and series, current and past ABs-CBN Kapamilya shows, movies, restored film classics, music, and live concerts for free. likewise, iflix boasts an extensive lineup of powerhouse Filipino movies such as I Love You, Hater, Love You To The Stars And Back, Sin Island, The Ghost Bride, and Bloody Crayons, alongside iflix originals Hot Ones and Live Life With Kris, all of which are exclusive to the platform.

“We want to give the opportunity for local content to be part of the digital space and the new digital channels that are currently being dominated by foreign content,” added Cu. Globe mobile customers can enjoy movies and TV shows on iWant and soon on iflix for Globe chief executive officer Ernest Cu (second from left) announces the telco's partnership with IWant and iflix.

P29 via GoWATCH for Globe customers (2GB of data for videos for one day) and for P19 via With him are (from left) IWant's Elaine Uy Casipit, iflix's Sherwin dela Cruz, and Globe Studios head Quark Henares.

EasyWATCH for TM customers (1GB of data for videos for one day). joins the effort in raising local love of Filipino .giff celebrates the modern Filipino cinema Further, Globe studios, the entertainment viewers with the second year of .giff (Globe In- scene by providing budding filmmakers their production company arm of Globe Telecom dependent Film Festival. long-awaited break.

The festival will hold three main programs in its search for the next Filipino film classic.

The .giff streaming Competition is open to filmmakers who have ready-made films in the following categories: Narrative, Experimental, Animation, Documentary, and Music Video.

The. giff short Film lab, on the other hand, will select 10 filmmakers who will get a grant and a mentorship program to complete a short film which will compete in the festival awards in April 2019.

Finally, in the .giff Cinema Writing lab, 10 aspiring film journalists/writers will undergo mentorship on writing about the art of film. Check out giff.ph for more information.

“As the Filipino audience is developing more varied interests when it comes to films and music, we aim to grow and encourage this local love affair through providing right opportunities and platforms to the most passionate and promising talents in the country,” said Globe studios head Quark Henares.

To kick things off, Globe studios will premiere Elements: The Series. Elements Music Camp is a national singing-songwriting camp which aims to help local music talents to reach their full potential, and pave their own paths in the local music scene.

This year, Elements Music Camp has joined forces with Globe to create a bigger, stronger camp that aims to bring together aspiring and professional musicians with local and international mentors to share, learn, and promote Filipino music. Fans can get first and exclusive dibs on these campers’ inspirational journey by catching all episodes streaming exclusively on iflix.

Visit www.globe.com.ph or follow Globe on Facebook and Twitter for more information.

Entertainment

Nickie Wang, Issue Editor

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018

Indie producer tries hand in horror BABY F. Go, whom the local entertainment media has labeled as queen of indie films after the movies she produced in the previous years had earned accolades in international film festivals, is back on the grind.

Last week, she called her media friends for a small gathering at the Marco Polo in Ortigas Centre to announce her production outfit’s latest project, a horror film to be megged

by Joey Romero who said it will be filmed mostly in Baby’s home city Dumaguete. The Romeros are also from that famous Visayan city.

The project goes under the working title Hipnotismo and comes right after the completion of another BG Productions International project titled Latay with Allen Dizon and Lovi Poe. Ralston Jover directed the now in post-production film.

Also present during the mediacon were the film’s lead players like the Kapamilya lead actress and star of the series Kadenang Ginto Beauty Gonzales and fellow Kapamilya, E n z o Pineda.

Introducing in the film is Mr. W o r l d Philippines JB Saliba.

A l s o presented to the media was Polo Ravales who will also play an important part in the movie. Although she wasn’t there, Miss Universe 3rd runner up Ariella Arida was also mentioned that she is in the cast as one of the many interesting characters of the gothic film written by Eric Ramos.

BG Talents that also play important roles in the films include Kate Brios, Wayne Calderon and Winter Calderon.

The story of Hipnotismo revolves about newly weds played by Beauty and Enzo who decided to spend their honeymoon in Dumaguete.

They live in an old house replete with tales that will later make their honeymoon a nightmare.

Joey Romero is the son of filmmaker Eddie Romero, a “national artist for film.”

Joey had directed horror films in the past including Vampira starring “diamond star” Maricel Soriano. It was voted the best film by the YCC (Young Critics Circle). Romero collaborated for the screenplay with award winning Eric Ramos who also wrote the forthcoming Rainbow’s Sunset, an official entry to this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival.

“It has been always my passion to produce movies. And that passion will always be part of my company.

I have always wished that I could produce a “horror film’ and I am glad I am now. I am also happy that it will be shot where I was born and the film will explore the beauty of

Dumaguete, “ Baby Go told me before she ended the mediacon. *** Globe produces content for cinemas as well.

A phone company is also a film company. With Globe Studios (a part of Globe Telecom), the leading mobile service provider in the Philippines has crashed onto the entertainment scene producing content, not only for the mobile phones but also for cineplexes across the archipelago.

Last Wednesday, the Globe Studios produced Hintayan sa Langit opened nationwide.

The film is about Lisang and Manolo, (played by movie icons Gina Pareño and Eddie Garcia, respectively), who meet in a place they call “hintayan sa langit,” or what is generally known as purgatory.

Lisang has overstayed in her waiting room, occasionally causing other souls trouble for her own entertainment.

Now, she is set to cross over and her room will be occupied by a new tenant, Manolo.

It turns out Manolo is her exboyfriend.

Lisang and Manolo get a second chance to know each other again and, in the process, begin to realize what it really means to be “alive” again. As Lisa and Manolo look back in retrospect and they examine the decisions they made in their lives, they can’t help but ask what if....

The feature film is written by spoken word artist Juan Miguel Severo based upon his one-act stage play for The Virgin Lab Fest.

Hintayan ng Langit is a coproduction between Globe Studios and Project 8 Corner San Joaquin Projects, a film production company owned by top filmmakers Dan Villegas and Antoinette Jadaone. The movie adaptation is directed by Dan Villegas for QCinema and premiered in October. It won the Best Actor and Audience Choice awards.

While #HintayanNgLangit is trending on social media for its gripping theme and excellent production values, the film is also the latest commitment of Globe Studios in delivering heartfelt but top-quality films not only for its customers but among all Filipino film buffs as well.

Villegas and Jadaone join the roll of A-list of filmmakers that include Erik Matti, Paul Soriano, Sigrid Bernardo, Joyce Bernal, and Lav Diaz who have collaborated with Globe Studios for their original video and film productions. *** More stories of these kinds at www. isah.red. Follow me on Facebook (@isahvr), Twitter (@isahvred and Instagram (@isahvred. ΙŘ

Welsh actor Taron Egerton as Robin Hood

Timeless classic ‘Robin Hood’ reimagined THIS November, experience non-stop action and adventure in SM Cinema as Summit Entertainment reimagined the timeless tale of Robin Hood.

A known thief who steals from the rich and gives to the poor, Robin Hood of Loxley (Taron Egerton) together with John (Jamie Foxx) and his band of

outlaws, the Merry Men, will start a revolution to stop the wicked English crown on oppressing the people.

Directed by Otto Bathurst, the film also includes actors Ben Mendelsohn as the Sheriff of Nottingham, Jamie Dornan as Will Scarlet and Eve Hewson as Marian.

Robin Hood premiered on Nov. 21 and screens at SM cinemas. Book your tickets through the website,www.smcinema.com or download the SM Cinema mobile app. You may also follow /SMCinema on Facebook and @SM_Cinema on Instagram for updates.

C3

nickie.standard@gmail.com

Taking part in Vigan City’s Raniag Festival on Oct. 20 were Dion Ignacio, Gil Cuerva, Arra Agustin, and Rita Daniela.

KAPUSO SHOWS,

personalities banner GMA Regional TV events L AST October, some of GMA Network’s top personalities and programs went to different parts of the country to headline festivals and mall shows via GMA Regional TV.

This year’s MassKara Festival of Bacolod was made extra special with no less than Dingdong Dantes and Dennis Trillo. They were joined by their co-stars in the primetime series Cain at Abel, Solenn Heussaff and Sanya Lopez, during the Kapuso Mall Show in Robinsons Place Bacolod on Oct. 21.

Dramedy series Pamilya Roces also took part in the celebration. Actress Carla Abellana together with her co-star in the series, Rocco Nacino, had a Kapuso Mall Show in SM City Bacolod on the same day.

Joining them were the lead actors of the series Asawa Ko, Karibal Ko – actress Kris Bernal, returning KapusoRayver Cruz and actress Thea Tolentino.

A day before, actor Mike Tan serenaded the candidates of MassKara Queen 2018 at the SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City. One Western Visayas anchor Atty. Sed Cabaluna hosted the event.

Prior to the MassKara Festival, GMA Regional TV kicked off October with simultaneous Kapuso Mall Shows in

Pangasinan and Zamboanga.

Last Oct. 12, The Stepdaughters cast led by Megan Young and Katrina Halili, together with Mikael Daez, Sef Cadayona, Joyce Ching, Donita Rose, and Karen Haniel drove to Pangasinan for a Kapuso Mall Show in Robinsons Place Pangasinan.

Spreading love as well were the stars of My Special Tatay headlined by Ken Chan who was with his co-stars Arra San Agustin, Jillian Ward, and Rita Daniela.

Down south, Rhian Ramos and Kylie Padilla led the celebration of Zamboanga City’s Hermosa Festival. Hosting the Kapuso Mall Show was comedian Mike “Pekto” Nacua.

The following day (Oct. 13), Ika-5 Utos stars Jake Vargas, Inah de Belen, and Jeric Gonzales flew to Palawan for a Kapuso Mall Show in Robinsons Place Palawan.

Meanwhile, Asawa Ko Karibal Ko stars Kris, Rayver, and Thea held a Kapuso Mall Show in Robinsons Place Iligan.

They also went to Robinson Place Butuan last Oct.16 for another mall show.

Derrick Monasterio, Martin del Rosario, and Rodjun Cruz also made their fans happy during their Kapuso Mall Show in Robinsons Place Tagum last Oct. 14.

Taking part in Vigan City’s Raniag Festival last Oct. 20 were Victor Magtanggol’s Dion Ignacio, Taste Buddies hostGil Cuerva, and Arra and Rita of My Special Tatay.

On the other hand, Kapuso stars Max Collins, Mike Tan, and Kiko Estrada were at Robinsons Place Ormoc

last Oct. 20.

The cast of Pamilya Roces also invaded Cebu last Oct. 26 with two simultaneous mall shows. Carla, Sophie, and Rocco headlined the Kapuso Mall Show in Gaisano Capital South while Gabbi Garcia, Shaira Diaz, Andre Paras,Manolo Pedrosa, and JasmineCurtis Smith held a separate Kapuso Mall Show at Gaisano Island Mall Mactan.

A huge crowd joined Katrina Halili on the same day when she opened the Ati-Atihan Festival at Pastrana Park, in Kalibo, Aklan.

The following day, (Oct. 27) Cain at Abel’s Dingdong and Dennis with Solenn and Sanyawere at Robinsons Place Pangasinan for another Kapuso Mall Show. Present as well were the anchors and correspondents of leading North Central Luzon newscast Balitang Amianan.

Kylie Padilla wowed the audience when she donned her Amihan costume during the opening of World Costume Festival at Calle Crisologo, Vigan City last Oct. 28. Also serving as one of the judges of the said competition wasRodjun Cruz.

“Every month, we carefully prepare our line-up of activities to be able to bring our Kapuso programs and personalities closer to their fans,” says GMA Regional TV Vice President and Head Oliver Amoroso. “October was no exception.

On top of the mall shows, we mounted activities to celebrate the biggest festivals such as MassKara and Raniag. And they should look forward to more surprises before the year ends,” he adds.

Maine Mendoza, Baeby Baste usher in COD’s return to Araneta Center THE Araneta Center is pulling all the stops for a grand homecoming this Christmas.

Today, a beloved classic will cross paths with celebrated phenoms as TV host-actress Maine Mendoza and child star Baeby Baste welcome the returning Christmas on Display at the Times Square Food Park along with other VIP guests and officials of the Araneta Center.

The program for the grand launch starts at 5:00 p.m. Admission is free to the public.

After 16 years, the animated Christmas on Display is returning to its true home in

Araneta Center. Eager to welcome it back are people from all walks of life and across different generations—from those who have been in awe with it years back, to the young ones who have yet to see and experience its full glory.

It is expected to draw crowds to the Times Square Food Park, which is just a stone’s throw away from its original location. Created by businessman Alex Rosario Sr. in 1957, Christmas on Display transferred to Araneta Center in 1966 and has since become a prominent attraction in the country’s premier lifestyle hub during Christmas until the Manila C.O.D. Department Store ceased operations in 2002.

Now helmed by Rey Rosario, the COD will continue to amaze with its imposing design and touching stories. With a touch of something old and something new, the animated display still harkens back to its glory days of simple pleasures in life, but is now set in a backdrop that is as Instagram-worthy as many attractions in the metropolis these days.

With bright lights, music, and the help of more than 40 moving mannequins, it will touch on Araneta Center’s theme “Christmas is Home,” a topic all too familiar for countless of Filipinos who travel great lengths just to be with the ones they love this Holiday season.

Once it launches, the Christmas On Display will have 15-minute shows from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Sundays to Thursdays, and from 6:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Fridays to Saturdays

until Jan. 6.

Star-studded Since skyrocketing to stardom as host of Eat Bulaga in 2015, Maine has moved on to become a bankable actress, product endorser and budding cosmetics mogul. Baeby Baste, on the other hand, is one of the country’s leading child stars and already has a Best Child Performer award from the Metro Manila Film Festival under his belt.

Also joining Maine and Baeby Baste is the awarded Mandaluyong Children’s Choir, which, since its formation in 1999, has earned international accolades from choral competitions in China, Canada and Korea.

Miss Universe Philippines Catriona Gray will host the ceremony, while her Binibining Pilipinas sisters, Binibining Pilipinas Grand International Eva Patalinjug, Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental Karen Gallman, Miss Globe top 15 finalist Michele Gumabao, and Miss International first runner-up Ma. Ahtisa Manalo will also be in attendance following her successful pageant stint in Japan.

The festive launch comes just a week after Araneta Center lit up its iconic giant Christmas tree also at the Times Square Food Park. The starstudded event, which was headlined

by Sarah Geronimo and Vice Ganda, was witnessed by more than 20,000 people.

For more updates on Araneta Center’s Christmas activities, visit www.aranetacenter.net and follow its social media pages: @AranetaCenter on Facebook and Twitter and @ TheAranetaCenter on Instagram.

Maine Mendoza, along with Baeby Baste, headlines COD’s star-studded return to Araneta Center.

c4 FRIday, novembeR 23, 2018

Millennials Driving MoToring QuarTerly

Triumphant troika boosts Suzuki’s 3rd Q sales growth

C

onsistent with its performance during the first two quarters of the year, pioneer compact car distributor suzuki Philippines finished the third quarter with yet another strong showing, enabling the company to post 6 percent sales growth for the first nine months of the year compared with the same period in 2017.

Despite the industry slowdown these past months resulting from market reaction to the first-phase implementation of the tRAin Law and the inflation surges, suzuki PH said it was able to steadily increase its sales this year, with total volume exceeding 14,600 units as of september. the continued uptick reflects the brand’s strategic marketing efforts, which focused on back-to-back promotions and participation in various auto shows in recent months. sPH is looking to maximizing the momentum of its recent successes as it pushes through the remaining months of 2018.

“With the economic challenges and diversifying market demands, it is important more than ever to become flexible yet aggressive with our efforts to make sure that the suzuki brand will maintain, if not surpass, its current performance.” shared Director and General Manager for Automobile Keiichi suzuki.

“We do not intend to compromise our commitment to provide only the best-value vehicles to Filipinos no matter what challenges come

percent sales share. named the 2017 CAGi Car of the Year in the subcompact Crossover category, the new Vitara boasts flexible personalization features in a stylish design. it delivers enhanced driving and safety qualities, making it the best city drive for Filipino millennials.

Back-to-back promotions

along the way. We will continue driving and marketing initiatives forward and sharing the suzuki Way of Life suzuki’s active participation in the major with even more Filipinos,” he added. activities of the Filipino driving community was a major contributor to the company’s susTop performers: ertiga, tained sales growth.

Celerio and Vitara suzuki Philippines showcased its range of the ertiga, Celerio and Vitara remain innovative vehicles in the relevant auto shows the suzuki best-sellers. the three award- of the year – the Philippine international Mowinning models accounted for 59 percent tor show (PiMs) and the Manila international of total sales from January to september Auto show (MiAs) – to expand influence and this year. strengthen market foothold. the well-loved family vehicle ertiga still At the recently concluded PiMs 2018 dominates the suzuki auto sales chart with themed “Future Mobility,” sPH displayed its a 33 percent share. the 7-seater ertiga deliv- latest and best-performing models delivering ers utility, power and cost efficiency with- superior fuel economy, distinct styling and inout scrimping on top-tier functionality and novative features. these are the all-new swift maximum accommodation, making it ideal and Dzire, Vitara and Ciaz. During the five-day for practical Filipino families seeking supe- event, the much-awaited all-new Jimny also rior riding comfort. made its first public debut in the Philippines. the second top-performing model is Details about the official launch and release of again the Celerio with a 14 percent share of the all-new Jimny in the local market will be total sales. Awarded as the Best Value-for- revealed soon.

Money in the standard mini category in last earlier this year, sPH participated in MiAs year’s Auto Focus People’s Choice Awards 2018 where the best-selling and award-win(AFMCA), the Celerio hatchback features ning suzuki models Vitara, Ciaz and ertiga a compact design but delivers power were exhibited. the recently launched alland efficiency for a fun and versa- new Dzire was also put on display. tile city drive. suzuki said: “We are more than grateful for the Vitara, which cel- the consistently warm response of the Filipino ebrates its first year market. this continues to inspire us to deliver in the Philip- on the promise of making best-value and inpine market novative vehicles accessible to even more this month, Filipinos, which is why we are very active in remains one joining the activities of the local automotive of the top community. to extend our reach beyond the three best- metropolis, we are bringing our vehicles a lot performing closer to Filipinos living in areas outside Metro models with a 12 Manila through our annual suzuki AutoFest.”

HyunDai HigH

Zooming LCV sales mark HARi’s crowning glory “LAst october’s performance only reflects that the performance of the automotive industry is beginning to normalize. our growth outlook remains to be upbeat for the remainder of the year.” that was how Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo, HARi President and Ceo, summed up the industry’s overall results in terms of vehicles sales, citing her own company’s performance last month. the official distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the country posted october sales of 3,578 units.

A strong start to the fourth quarter of the year, october saw the brand grow 9.6% compared to october 2017. this puts the total January to october 2018 sales at 29,018 units, closing the gap with a minute decline of 5.5% to the 30,717 units sold in same period of the previous year. the sales performance of the brand remains consistent with the overall demand for automotive vehicles in the country.

Monthly trend would show that unit sales would eventually pick up in the last two months of the year. sales of the Passenger Car segment remained to be the brand’s volume driver owing more than half of the brand’s total unit sales for the year. For october alone PC sales amounted to 2,113 units or a 28.8% decline, totaling to 21,065 units from January to october. the Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) segment took the spotlight as it grew from 1,153 units in october 2017 to 2,074 units this year, recording a 79.9% year-on-year growth. this amounts to a total of 12,155 units sold from January – october 2018, growing 25.9% compared to the same period of the previous year. the segment contributed to almost half of all the year-to-date Hyundai vehicle sales in 2018 with the successful introduction of the Kona, Hyundai’s entry to the subcompact sUV segment. the increased industrial activity has also given rise to the H100, Hyundai’s small Utility truck, which experienced a sudden surge in its 2018 sales growing 45.8%.

Sales and economic outlook

the Philippines remains to be one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia, next to Vietnam and China. Although it did experience a slowdown in the 3rd Quarter of 2018 with the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) easing to 6.1%. the slower than usual pace was weighed down by weakened household spending due to the consistently high inflation and the lowered agriculture output from the series of typhoons that hit the country. However, with october inflation easing to 6.7%, the Bangko sentral ng Pilipinas (BsP) projected that inflation has peaked and would begin to taper off till the end of the year.

Hyundai is optimistic as economic headwinds are expected to slow down, Perez-Agudo said. the brand is in a strong position to take advantage of the remainder of the year as sales are expected to increase in the last two months of 2018.