The Standard - 2015 May 06 - Wednesday

VOL. XXIX  NO. 78  3 Sections  32 Pages  P18  WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2015  www.manilastandardtoday.com  editorial@thestandard.com.ph

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Where is Comelec’s Sheriff?

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Binay slams Drilon over hearings

DAVIDE: BBL PARTS AGAINST CHARTER Next page

Confrontation. Squatters in South Triangle village along Mother Ignacia Street, in Quezon City, try to make a human barricade to stop police from introducing a team tasked to demolish their shanties on Tuesday. MANNY PALMERO

Bulls, Clips draw 1st blood

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Audemars Piguet makes a splash

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Usman’s slay won’t affect raps vs rebels

By Rey E. Requejo and Francisco tuyay

BBL hearing. Senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is shown in a huddle with, from left, former Neda Director-General Cayetano Paderanga Jr.

(representing businessman Jaime Augusto Zobel De Ayala), former Education Secretary Edilberto de Jesus, Former Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr., Ateneo de Davao University president Joel Tabora, Teach Peace, Build Peace Movement founder Bai Rohaniza Sumndad-Usman, and Moner Bajunaid during the continuation of the Senate public hearing on the Bangsamoro Basic Law. Lino SAntoS

Davide admits portions of BBL against Charter

By Macon Ramos-Araneta A LEADER of the Palace-supported Peace Council formed by President Benigno Aquino III admitted Tuesday that the Bangsamo Basic Law proposed by the administration and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front that “constitutional issues” needed to be “refined.”

In testimony before the Senate, former Chief Justice Hilario Davide backtracked on his earlier declaration that the BBL was constitutional.

Under questioning, Davide said “it would be very, very clear from our recommendations, unless we do something about these areas, and some refinements would be done, then the constitutional issues may remain.”

Pressed further, Davide said: “We can’t simply declare [the BBL] unconstitutional when only a few [provisions] are found violative of the Constitution or perceived to be violative of the Constitution.”

Senator Francis Escudero said he raised the issue about changes to the basic law because the mantra of government peace negotiators is that the draft should not be amended or watered down.

But Davide said one of the provisions of the BBL that needed “refinement” was the description of the Bangsamoro government as parliamentary.

Elsewhere, however, it is referred to as “a ministerial form of government.”

To avoid any confusion and possible misinterpretation, Davide said the term ministerial be dropped and replaced with “parliamentary” for consistency and clarity.

Another problematic provision calls for parliamentary elections upon a two-third vote of no-confidence by all members of the parliament against the government of the day, Davide said.

Instead, the Peace Council suggests that the no-confidence should affect the government of the day, not the entire parliament. In this way, he said, parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro could be synchronized with national and local elections elsewhere in the country.

But Davide also disagreed with critics who said the grant of exclusive powers to the Bangsamoro government makes it superior to the central government.

He said this only refers to powers devolved to the Bangsamoro government, which remains under the central government as an autonomous region.

He said to avoid misunderstanding, such powers should be called “exclusive and devolved.”

The BBL, he said, provides that the Supreme Court and the constitutional bodies maintain the powers given them under the Constitution.

“There is neither substitution nor diminution of powers intended or effected by the creation of the Bangsamoro human rights, auditing, civil service and electoral offices,” he said.

But to avoid confusion, Davide said, the council recommended that the portions on these agencies include the clause “subject to review powers of the Supreme Court.”

Davide said the BBL was an important piece of legislation that represented a “momentous opening” to correct the mistakes of the past.

He added that the draft law complies with the Constitution’s mandate for the creation of autonomous regions within the framework of national sovereignty.

In a news conference after the hearing, Marcos said the Peace Council reports supported their assertions that the BBL should be amended to make it compliant with the Constitution. This was contrary to the stand of Malacanang.

“We are able to see that the

Peace Council recognizes the deficiencies of the BBL and that there is need to amend it or to clarify,” he said.

He said this countered the insistence of the government peace negotiators and the MILF that there was no need to revise the BBL. “I think I can categorically state that the draft BBL, as transmitted by (President Aquino) to the Senate and the House of Representatives in its form, won’t pass either House,” Maros said.

Escudero and Marcos said they will study the proposals from the Peace Council.

The Palace said Tuesday that the Peace Council, formed at the President’s suggestion, was an independent group.

“There was no implication that they needed to support the BBL,” said Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. Coloma then reported on the council’s work, saying it made a 196-page report on a 122-page piece of legislation, and consulted 136 representatives form different sectors.

“That’s the reason why we could say they (Council) went through the draft BBL thoroughly. They studied this in a thorough manner and this became the basis of their observation and recommendation,” Coloma said.

He echoed the Council’s observation that the BBL was “overwhelmingly acceptable and deserves the support of all Filipinos.” – With Sandy Araneta

THE death of the terrorist Basit Usman, reportedly at the hands of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), will not affect thefiling of charges against the rebel fighters who participated in the killing of 44 police commandos in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Jan. 25, the Justice Department said Tuesday.

“Whoever is responsible for neutralizing Usman... will not affect our investigation because the Usman case is a separate incident,” Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said.

Reports said Usman was killed by members of the 118th Base Command of the MILF in Guindolongan, Maguindanao, Sunday.

Earlier, a special team of prosecutors and National Bureau of Investigation investigators recommended the filing of criminal charges againt 90 members of the MILF, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and other private armed groups involved in the Mamasapano massacre.

Killed in the ill-fated operation were 36 members of the Special Action Force (SAF) 55th Special Action Company, and nine members of the 84th SAF Seaborne, who killed Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan.

Usman, the second target of the covert Mamasapano operation, was able to elude arrest and has been hunted since then.

The rival Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) said the death of Usman would not hurt the BIFF, members of which had received bomb-making lessons from the Filipino terorist.

Absalom Cerveza, MNLF spokesman, said the BIFF was still a force to recokon with since Usman was not an “organic member of the BIFF.” “I don’t think the BIFF suffered a major big blow...their arms are intact and their members have not depleted…they remain a potent force in the area,” Cerveza said.

He added that if those slain in the company of Usman were relatives of BIFF members, there would be a possibility of retaliation.

Cerveza also said Usman’s death was part of a deal between the MILF and the military.

Cerveza said the BIFF counted some 10,000 to 15,000 fully armed fighters, most of whom were former MILF members, including four top commanders of MILF chieftain Murad Ibrahim.

The estimate of troop strength differs dramatically from that of the government, which has dismissed the BIFF as bandits.

In the Senate, opposition Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito said Usman was a sacrificial lamb to push the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) passed.

The law has stalled in Congress after the Jan. 25 Mamasapano massacre.

Ejercito said Tuesday the death of Usman at the hands of MILF fighters was “merely scripted” to show the public that the rebels were sincere in pursuing peace.

With Macon Ramos Araneta, Sandy Araneta and Florante S. Solmerin

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Comelec’s Sheriff a no-show

By Sara Susanne Fabunan

THE Commission on Elections held its first en banc hearing with its newly-appointed commissioners except for Commissioner Sheriff Manimbayan Abas, who remained a mystery to many including the top officials of the poll body and even Malacañang.

“You know, I really don’t know,” said Comelec spokesman James Jimenez.

“I have not actually met him, so we have no information about him.”

“We have no information on that. Need to verify,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a text message in response to a claim by Muslim lawyers that Abas is a cousin of Moro Islamic Liberation Front chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal.

Lawmakers also know little about the new commissioner and they challenged Malacañang to provide the same amount of information that usually accompanies a presidential appointment.

“The Palace owes it to the Filpino people to clarify [the] issue,” said Abakada Rep. Jonathan de la Cruz.

He noted that the only information available on Abas is that he was enrolled in the Integrated Bar of the Philippines’ roll of lawyers in 2005.

Abas supposedly was a regional director of the Civil Service Commission and former chairman of the Bangsamoro Business Club, which only emerged after the signing of the government’s Framework Agreement with the MILF. Before his appointment, Abas, who is said to be from Cotabato City, is known to have conducted election-related seminars to officials of the MILF. Despite the questions on Abas, the Comelec finally decided on Tuesday to conduct two simultaneous public biddings for the refurbishing of the old Precinct Count Optical Scan or PCOS machines and the purchase of 100,000 new Optical Mark Reader or OMR voting units.

Demolition. An policeman hoses down antiriot cops after squatters at Barangay South Triangle in Quezon City threw feces at them as they tore down their illegal structures. Manny PalMERo

Liberals getting desperate, UNA leader says

By Maricel V. Cruz and Sara Susanne Fabunan THE opposition United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) said that a faction within the Liberal Party led by Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II was despeate and would do everything to ensure that they win the presidency in the 2016 elections, including the appointment of a top poll official.

UNA acting president and Navotas Rep. Tobias Tiangco pointed to Roxas, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad and Senate President Franklin Drilon as those behind the appointment of Commission on Elections Commissioner Rowena Guanzon.

“The appointment of Rowena Guanzon has a deep connection with their faction of the Liberal Party,” Tiangco said in a statement.

“The end goal is to find any way so that Mar Roxas will win in the 2016 elections,” he added.

In a press conference, Guanzon denied Tiangco’s allegations.

The Palace announced the appointment of Guanzon, a former mayor of Cadiz, Negros Occidental, as commissioner of the Comelec. Also appointed were Comelec Commissioner Andres Bautista, who used to head the Presidential Commission on Good Governance, and Sheriff Abas as a commissioner.

Guazon’s appointment to the Commission on Audit was earlier turned down by the Commission on Appointments.

During her stint as an audit commissioner, Guanzon actively pursued cases focused on Makatirelated projects under Vice President Jejomar Binay, and berated auditors for failing to find any irregularities in Makati, Tiangco said.

“We are worried of the political ties of Ms. Guanzon in a supposedly neutral and non-partisan

body, especially in an agency that is tasked to oversee a fair and clean election. It is as clear as day that Guanzon’s agenda in the Comelec is to put down the Vice President in 2016,” he said.

Tiangco also accused Roxas of lobbying for Guanzon’s appointment to the COA and to the Supreme Court.

“Guanzon is very much part of Mar Roxas’ circle,” he said. “Again, we see Mar dipping his hands in the Comelec,” he said.

A lawyer and former professor in the UP College of Law, Guanzon is a member of the Delta Lambda Sigma, a sister sorority of the Sigma Rho fraternity. The Sigma Rho counts among its members Drilon, as well as Roxas’ lawyers Avelino Cruz and Simeon Marcelo.

Guanzon on Tuesday denied allegations that she called a meeting of auditors to pressure them into investigating overpricing in the Makati City Hall Building 2.

In a press conference, Guanzon rejected Tiangco’s allegations linking her to Roxas.

“When I was (a) commissioner of COA, and I was there only for 10 months, as a commissioner, I had no power to call any auditor. In fact, my function was mostly quasi-judicial in nature, where I voted as a judge in claims in the commission,” Guanzon said.

“So I would like to take this opportunity to disabuse the mind of the public based on what some newspapers wrote, that I called a meeting about Makati. I had no power to call any auditor, I was a new commissioner, I attended meetings only when I was called,” she said.

Guanzon said that she has been consulted from time to time by the COA chair.

She declined to comment further on Tiangco’s allegations except to say they were false.

With Sandy Araneta

Stop use of PCOS, tribunal asked

By Rey E. Requejo

Protest. Farmers from Porac, Pampanga, and Quezon handcuff themselves at the gates

of the Department of Agrarian Reform in Quezon City during a protest on Tuesday.

Manny PalMERo

THE Supreme Court has been asked to stop the Commission on Elections from re-using the 81,000 Precinct Count Optical Scan or PCOS machines for the 2016 elections.

In a 46-page petition, petitioners led by former Biliran Rep. Glenn Chiong and Ang Kapatiran Party led by Norman Cabrera also urged the high court to nullify several provisions of Republic Act 8436, or the Automated Election System law, which allows the creation of the Comelec Advisory Council and Technical Evaluation Committee with respective

corresponding powers.

The petitioners said Congress violated the 1987 Constitution, which prescribed the Comelec’s powers and functions, when it inserted those provisions.

They said Sections 8, 9, 10, and 11 of RA 8436 were unconstitutional as those were in conflict with Article IXC, Section 2 (1) of the 1987 Constitution prescribing the prime task or mandate of the Commission on Elections.

“Sharing the said power with other bodies, whether permanent or ad hoc, transgresses the prime task or mandate of the Comelec under the Constitution, not to mention that the set-up

undermines its institutional independence,” the petitioners said.

“The mere thought alone that the COMELEC is under some kind of supra-entities created in guise of extending assistance to the same is abhorrent.”

By incorporating those statutory provisions in the AES law or in creating the Advisory Council and the Technical Evaluation Committee, Congress transgressed Article IX-C, Section 2(1) of the 1987 Constitution, thus, it acted in grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction, the petitioners said.

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Senate exposé scored

By Vito Barcelo, Joel Zurbano and Macon Araneta

THE camp of Vice President Jejomar Binay on Tuesday described Senator Antonio Trillanes IV’s “bombshell’’ at Senate Blue Ribbon subcommittee investigation hearing as another dud after officials debunked his claim that city funds were used to subsidize a University of Makati program.

The events at the Senate led Binay’s lawyer JV Bautista to take Senate President Franklin Drilon to task “sleeping and condoning” what is happening in the Senate Blue Ribbon subcommittee which has already held 19 hearings on Binay’s supposed corruption.

Another Binay lawyer Rico Quicho, Binay’s political spokesperson, said Trillanes’ latest bombshell showed that the hearings have clearly evolved a show opera meant to boost Trillanes’ presidential aspirations.

“Once again, records belie the malicious claims of Trillanes. The Senate hearings have so far produced nothing but totally unsubstantiated claims against the Vice President,” Quicho said in a statement.

Quicho claimed that no Makati City official in the University of Makati’s (UMak) Board of Trustees benefited from the UMak’s Public-Private Partnership program, as alleged by Trillanes.

The senate probe did not find concrete evidence that Makati officials who

are members of the UMak board in a regular or ex-officio capacity – including Vice President Jejomar C. Binay – received dividends or shares of profits at any given time.

“The Vice President merely represented the City of Makati in the Joint Venture Project as evidenced by the City Council Resolutions and Ordinances. Appeal for fairness. Calauan, Laguna Mayor Buenafrido Berris and Vice Mayor Allan Jun Sanchez ask senators to spare the He never held any business town the recrimination that will possibly arise from the hearings against Vice President Jejomar Binay. LINO SANTOS interests therein in his own capacity,” he added.

Quicho said based on the Articles of Incorporation of the Philippine Health Educators Inc., the Joint Venture Company China’s continued reclamation. eignty over the almost entire South

By Vito Barcelo of the City of Makati and DFA spokesperson Charles Jose, China Sea as represented by their and Sandy Araneta STI, “Vice President Binay for his part, shrugged off allega- nine dash line.” held only one qualifying CHINA’S continued reclamation tions that the Philippines violated a The DFA spokesperson also deshare in the Company for in the disputed West Philippine Sea 13-year-old informal code of conduct fended the Philippines structures the sole purpose of repreconstitutes a threat to global sustain- in the South China Sea with its build- in the Pagasa islets, saying that the senting the City of Makati able development goals, the govern- ing work on disputed islets. signing of the Declaration on the in the board of directors of ment said on Tuesday as it dismissed Jose also raised doubts on China’s Conduct of Parties in the South the said Company.”

Beijing’s accusation that Manila vio- offer to allow countries, including China Sea in 2002 can be taken as a “It’s a good thing Senalated a decade old informal code of the United States, to use the arti- “benchmark”. tor Trillanes was never in conduct in the South China Sea. ficial islets it built in the disputed Jose said the Philippines built the the AFP’s Explosives and Assistant Secretary for the Office South China Sea as nothing but a airport on Pagasa island before 2002.

Ordnance Division otherof Asian and Pacific Affairs Minda ploy to ward off international criti“What they did afterwards is just wise he would have been an Calaguian-Cruz said 17 goals and cism. maintenance and renovation of the embarrassment to the unit 169 targets, which have been inte“We should not be distracted by airstrip. The Chinese side began its because all of the bombs grated into the United Nations De- their actions and instead focus on the construction activities after 2002, he produced in the Senate velopment Agenda Beyond 2015 for core issues which is China’s unlaw- and that is why the Philippine side hearings turned out to be the sustainable development of the ful claim,” Jose said, adding, “China regards China’s land reclamation as a duds,” Quicho quipped. area, is being adversely affected by continues to illegally claim sover- violation of the DOC,” he said.

PH replies to Beijing’s claims

Mary Jane’s recruiter arrested

By Rey E. Requejo THE National Bureau of Investigation has placed Maria Kristina Sergio, the alleged illegal recruiter of Mary Jane Veloso, under arrest and was brought to the Department of Justice for inquest proceedings on charges of human trafficking and illegal recruitment.

Sergio was arrested with her live-in partner Julius Lacanilao, who was also the subject of complaints of alleged victims who surfaced after being persuaded by NBI agents.

She was arrested without a warrant because she was supposedly being charged of a continuing offense.

The Department of Justice had earlier formed a special task force to build up cases against alleged recruiters of Mary Jane Veloso.

In Department Order No. 277, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima has designated six pros-

ecutors, 11 National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents and three state counsels “to investigate, undertake and build up case and work on the prosecution of cases involving Mary Jane Veloso.”

Composing the special task force are Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Susan Dacanay; Assistant State Prosecutors Mark Roland Estepa, Olive Torrevillas and Niven Canlapan; Senior Asst. City Prosecutor Raymond Jonathan Lledo and Asst. City Prosecutor Ralph Michael Cataquiz from the National Prosecution Service.

The members coming from the NBI include Anti-Human Trafficking Division chief Atty. Eriz Nuqui and Anti-Illegal Drug Unit Atty. Joel Tovera with lawyers Basset Sarip, Giselle Dumlao, Gertrude Gay Manandeg, Jerome Bomediano, Eduardo Ramos and Henry Canapi; and Special Investigators Danilo Garay, Roy Rufino Sunega and Joel Otic as members.

Catch-up program. Education Secretary Armin Luistro and Education Undersecretary Dina Ocampo explain to senators at a hearing in Pasay City the reasons for and advantages of implementing the K-to-12 education program. LINO SANTOS

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51% of Pinoys rated poor—SWS

By Sandy Araneta

ABOUT 51 percent of Filipino families see themselves as poor, according to the Social Weather Stations’ survey covering the first quarter of 2015.

SWS said the percentage showed a slight drop from 52 percent in December last year.

The SWS self-rated poverty average survey said that the 51 percent of March 2015 was 3 percentage percent below the 54-percent average for the four quarters of 2014.

The SWS also indicated that 2014 was the worst during the administration of President Benigno Aquino III, which matched the average in 2006 during the Arroyo administration.

The SWS survey also noted that there was a 12-point decline in self-rated poverty, from 43 percent to 31 percent, in Metro Manila, from

December 2014 to March 2015.

In Luzon, self-rated poverty went down by 1 percentage point, from 45 percent to 44 percent, December 2014 to March 2015.

In Visayas, self-rated poverty surged by 5 percentage points, from 65 percent to 70 percent.

In Mindanao, self-rated poverty went up by 2 percent, from 60 percent to 62 percent, December 2014 to March 2015.

In the food threshhold, the SWS survey cited an improvement among those who rated themselves food-poor, with a 5 percent decrease, from 41 percent in December 2014 to 36 percent in March 2015.

In the location threshhold, the SWS survey cited that in the Metro Manila, there was an improvement from 43 percent in December 2014 to 31 percent in March 2015.

The pollster found that the median self-rated poverty threshold, or the lowest monthly home expense budget needed by the poorer half of poor households not to consider themselves as such, was at P15,000 in Metro Manila in March

2015, from P20,000 in December 2014.

In Luzon, it was P15,000 in March 2015 from P8,000 last December 2014.

In Visayas, it was P10,000 in March 2015 from P12,000 in December 2014.

In Mindanao, it was unchanged at P10,000 on both quarters.

Median food poverty threshold, or the lowest monthly food budget needed by the poorer half of “food-poor” families not to consider themselves as such, was at P9,000 in Metro Manila; P6,000 in Luzon, P4,750 in the Visayas, and P5,000 in Mindanao.

The SWS noted that these figures were at record-high levels, except for the Visayas.

The March 2015 Social Weather Survey was conducted from March 20 to 23, 2015 using face-to-face interviews of 1,200 adults nationwide, 300 each in Metro Manila, Balance of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao (sampling error margins of 3% for national percentages, and 6% each for Metro Manila, Balance of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao).

Home again. Thirty-six Filipino repatriates arrive Tuesday morning at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on board Gulf Air flight GF154. Sixteen of them are from Libya and Syria who availed themselves of the mandatory repatriation program while the other 20 distressed OFWs are from Kuwait. The latest arrivals bring the number of Filipinos repatriated from Syria to 5,642. ERIC APOLONIO

Legal aid fund for OFWs in distress

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives on Tuesday batted for a P500- million legal assistance fund to be allocated by the government for distressed Filipino workers.

In filing House Bill 5704, the group said Philippine embassies abroad claim that lack of funds makes it difficult for government to provide legal services to Filipinos abroad undergoing trial.

The group, composed of Neri Colmenares and Carlos Zarate of Bayan Muna, Luz Ilagan and Emmi de Jesus of Gabriela Women’s Party, Antonio Tinio of ACT Teachers, Ferdinando Hicap of Anakpawis and Terry Ridon of Kabataan party-list, stressed that it was the government’s responsibility to provide timely and adequate legal assistance to OFWs in distress.

“By passing this bill that will ensure that funds are readily available for the legal needs of our OFWs in distress, we can save more OFWs’ lives,” said Colmenares, a House deputy minority leader.

The Foreign Affairs department had earlier said about 88 Filipinos facing death penalty abroad, mostly in China and Malaysia.

Similarly, data provided by the Migrante International showed at least 7,000 OFWs in jails abroad.

Given these figures, Colmenares said government must ensure that there is adequate fund for the Legal Assistance Fund and that this fund is actually used to assist our OFWs.

3rd batch of pork cases still a priority, says De Lima

By Rey Requejo JUSTICE Secretary Leila de Lima on Tuesday clarified that she did not categorically state that prosecuting the third batch of respondents in the pork barrel scam was no longer a priority.

“I was just stating the fact that indeed there are very important and urgent matters on my table,” De Lima said in a text message.

“At any given time, I need to attend to several priority matters/assignments simultaneously or almost simultaneously,” the Justice secretary added.

De Lima stressed that the reason for the delay in the filing of the third batch is the need to verify the signatures appearing on documents.

The Justice Secretary issued the statement after revealing she was drawing up a “list” of priority cases she intended to resolve before leaving the DOJ and possibly running for senator under the administration ticket.

Meanwhile, lawyer Levito Baligod said that three former and incumbent legislators reportedly eyeing Senate seat in 2016 polls under the administration Liberal Party are supposed to be among the respondents in the third batch of pork barrel scam cases that were shelved by the Department of Justice.

Baligod, former counsel of whistle-blowers in the Priority Development Assistance Fund scam led by Benhur Luy, made the revelation even as he urged the DOJ

Impatient. Lawyer Levito Baligod expresses dismay over the delay in the filing of the third batch of complaints relating to the pork barrel scam during a press conference in Manila on Tuesday . DANNY PATA to give priority to the third batch of cases involving the pork barrel anomaly.

Baligod did not name names but he was apparently referring to earlier reports im-

plicating Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) director general Joel Villanueva, Cagayan De Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez and former Pangasinan Rep. Rachel Arenas.

Baligod stressed that sufficient evidence had been gathered against the three politicians, so cases of malversation of public funds should have already been filed since last year.

“We are saddened and alarmed by the attitude of the DOJ of not giving importance to this third batch The government is losing its high moral ground in fighting corruption,” Baligod, who was part of the early DOJ probe of the pork barrel scam, said, in a press conference.

Clarifying that he has no

intention of seeking public office next year, Baligod said he believed that the statement of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima that the third batch of PDAF cases is no longer a priority “sends a chilling effect on us ordinary citizens who want to address corruption.”

Baligod recalled that when he was still lawyer of Luy and other whistle-blowers, De Lima has given the “commitment that the so-called (administration) allies will be included in that third batch.”

He was also told the cases would be filed in June last year. “As to what happened between June 2014 and the present, what changed the position of the Department of Justice, I really don’t know,” Baligod said.

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PNR freezes Metro line

By Joel E. Zurbano and Darwin G. Amojelar

The Philippine National Railways on Tuesday suspended its Metro Manila train operations to make way for a thorough inspection of tracks and ensure that trains are travelworthy and its passengers are safe.

Workers board a PNR service coach to inspect the railway from Divisoria to Laguna following the suspension of operations. DANNY PATA

‘Adverse media’ prompted justices to opt out of Harbour Centre case IN last-ditch efforts to preserve ‘judicial integrity,’ a three-member Court of Appeals’ division has opted to inhibit from a case involving the operations of the Harbour Centre Port Terminal Inc. at the Manila South Harbor.

The move of the CA’s Special Second Division stemmed from the motion to inhibit filed by port services operator One Source with the appellate court against Associate Justice Danton Bueser from hearing the case involving the port facility.

In a 26-page motion, respondent One Source accused Bueser of bias and partial-

ity in favor of businessman Reghis Romero II, who is at the center of the dispute on the ownership and management of the port.

The CA’s Special Second Division to which Bueser is a member was the one which issued a temporary restraining order last January against a Pasig City regional trial court decision dated December 1, 2014, which allowed One Source Port Services to manage and operate HCPTI. Responding to the motion to inhibit, Bueser, together with Associate Justices Samuel Gaerlan and Pedro Corrales, recused

Mauricio, 85 AzuCENA ‘zeny’ Lahora-Mauricio, mother of Bulacan veteran newsman Orlan Mauricio, passed away last April 30 at the age 85.

She is survived by her other children: Orville Jr., Ellen, Conrad, Rodel, Gilbert, Neville, and Jerrboy, grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

Her body lies in state at the St. Peter’s Chapel La Loma, located along C3 Road (formerly 5th Avenue), between A. Bonifacio and Rizal Avenues, Caloocan City.

Her co-servers and groupmates at the Our Lady of Grace Parish in Grace Park have scheduled a night of music dubbed ‘Serenade for the

Angels’ on Thursday evening, May 7.

On the last day of vigil, May 8, her OLGP co-workers will hold necrological services starting with a 3pm mass to be followed by the tribute of Pagasa Lions Club of Caloocan City, friends and relatives.

Her remains will be brought to Tarlac on Saturday morning (May 9), and a 10am mass will be held at the St. Therese of the Child Jesus Parish in Ramos, Tarlac.

Interment will follow at the Mauricio mausoleum at the Ramos municipal cemetery where she will be reunited with her husband Orville Sr., a veteran newspaperman-publisher and lifetime-NPC member, who passed away in 1996.

from handling the case.

In a resolution dated April 29, the members of the appellate court’s former Special Second Division decided to inhibit themselves from handling the case.

They also acknowledged that that negative media stories against Bueser compelled them to pull out of the case “so as not to unnecessarily drag the name of this court into a useless controversy.” “…[I]n view of the adverse media releases against the ponente (Bueser) as well as the filing of inconsequential cases in the Ombudsman thereby unnecessarily dragging the

name of this court in useless contretemps, it is eminently necessary that the members of the division graciously recuse from the further handling of this case,” read the resolution.

“And in view of the supposed erosion of private respondent’s faith in the justice system as brought to bear thus far upon this case, and mindful too of the duty to promote at every opportunity public confidence in judicial integrity and impartiality, we as members of this division, hereby opt to inhibit ourselves from further participation in these proceedings,” the resolution read.

PNR’s move came a week after one of its trains going to Muntinlupa City derailed between the stations of Magallanes in Makati City and Nichols in Taguig City, resulting in the injury to at least 30 passengers.

“Operations of the commuter line shall resume as soon as extensive inspections and assessments have been made and the integrity of the rail tracks has been certified safe and sound for its trains to pass and passenger-safety is assured,” said lawyer Diosdado Silva, PNR assistant general manager.

Silva said the PNR management appealed to commuters to bear with the temporary inconvenience.

The 28 kilometer-long (Tutuban-Alabang-Laguna) line system, one of the alternative modes of transportation for students and low wage earners, carries 60,00070,000 passengers daily.

Before suspending its operation, the PNR reduced the number of daily trips, which resulted in the overcrowding on Monday.

The system’s operator deployed 44 daily trips instead of 52 after one of its trains was pulled out from the operating fleet because of the derailment last Wednesday.

Jo Geronimo of the PNR Department for Operations, said they had to cancel eight trips due to absence of a spare train.

Southbound Train 1507 was carrying about 300 passengers when the derailment took placed around 4 p.m.

Wednesday last week. Its front and middle coaches were reportedly tilted between 45 and 60 degrees while the last coach remained on track.

PNR officials said they

found two possible angles which could be the reasons for the derailment—pilferage of the rail’s fastening system and rail expansion due to heat.

They did not discount the possibility that informal settlers residing near the railroad stole track materials and sold these for profit.

But members of the Train Riders Network (TREN) said gross negligence on the part of the PNR and the Department of Transportation and Communication caused the train to derail.

TREN spokesman James Relativo said the line receives very minimal investment and subsidies from the national government. He added most of the funds barely cover the operation of the line, leaving nothing for expansion, modernization and rehabilitation.

“Lack of government funding and continued neglect resulted in the deteriorating quality of services, overcrowding of coaches, and a plethora of safety issues.

What is apparent, however, is the state’s abandonment of their obligation and the contribution of privatization to the incident,” Relativo said.

The derailment last Wednesday was not the first time to happen involving PNR train.

In August last year, a southbound train also derailed between the stations of Espana and Sta. Mesa in Manila. No one was hurt in the incident.

PNR also operates the Bicol railway system, which is presently under rehabilitation in preparation for the resumption of the Bicol Express run to Naga City in Camarines Sur province, and eventually to the southern terminal in Legazpi City in Albay.

Angat Dam nearing critical level—Pagasa BECAuSE of the dry spell, Angat Dam could reach a low-water level of 180 meters by end of May, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services

Administration.

Edgar de la Cruz, the weather bureau’s hydrologist, said the dam’s water level is nearing its minimum operating level of 180 meters.

The Angat Dam may dry up soon because of the El Nino drought.

“When that happens, irrigation (in Bulacan) would be affected. The National Water Resources Board would cut the water allocation for irrigated farms in the area,” he told The Standard.

As of 6 a.m. Tuesday, the dam’s elevation was at 186.01.

“Because of the (thunderstorm) rains, the water level only dipped by .06 meters,” De la Cruz said.

He said Angat Dam could still service the water requirements of Metro Manila until the third week of May. The tropical storm Noul outside the Philippine area of responsibility threatening to hit the eastern part of Luzon or Bicol region could help increase Angat’s water elevation, he noted.

“Noul, if enters the country and becomes a typhoon to be named Dodong, could pass through Bulacan and bring in rains,” he said.

Without the localized rains over the Angat watershed, the dam is marking a .35-meter decrease, he said. Rio Araja

W E D N E S D AY : M AY 6 , 2 0 1 5

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NEWS

editorial@thestandard.com.ph

Army troops take arms, explosives from rebels in Ormoc

By Mel Caspe ORMOC CITY—Army troops of the 19th Infantry (Commando) Battalion, 8th Infantry (Stormtroopers) Division seized five high-powered firearms and explosives during an armed confrontation with New People’s Army rebels in Barangay Liberty, Ormoc City on Sunday, May 3.

Lt. Col Nedy C. Espulgar, Commanding Officer of the 19th Infantry Battalion based in the area, said his unit received information from a concerned citizen about the presence of heavily armed men in the barangay.

Acting on the information, troops proceeded to the area and confirmed the presence of about ten NPA members at the outskirts. A five-minute firefight ensued between the government troops and the rebels, after which the latter withdrew.

Troops immediately scoured the area and seized four M16A1 rifles, one M203 grenade launcher, several M16 magazines, 40mm ammunition, rifle grenades, an improvised explosive device (IED) and cell phones.

Likewise, assorted medical provisions, foodstuffs, personal belongings and subversive documents were found in the area.

There was no reported casualty on the government side.

Major General Jet B. Velarmino, 8ID Commander, thanked the residents of Brgy Liberty for the information, the local government unit, and the soldiers.

“Let us continue to affirm or reaffirm our respective roles and mandate to preserve and sustain the gains and pre-empt/prevent the resurgence of Local Terrorist Groups and to continually exert efforts, cooperate, support and assist each other, along with other government agencies and instrumentalities, in preserving the peace and order in this part of the region.”

Pangasinan intensifies anti-rabies campaign THE Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Pangasinan has passed a resolution stepping up its campaign against rabies after noting an alarming increase in the number of rabies-related deaths this year.

Provincial board members passed on Monday Provincial Resolution No. 1319-2015, which taps barangays to spearhead programs that could deliver vital service intervention in animal bites and rabies cases.

The resolution also urges ba-

rangays to closely coordinate with local government units to help augment their limited resources in implementing their anti-rabies programs.

The resolution was proposed by board members Amado Espino III, Napoleon Fontelera and

Rene Sison.

The Provincial Health Office has listed 12 human deaths from rabies in the first quarter of 2015, as compared to 11 deaths for the entire year 2014. Eric Perez, provincial veterinarian, said that these deaths occured in San Carlos City, Dasol, Tayug, San Fabian, Bautista and Sta. Barbara, which are also the places with the highest incidence of rabies.

The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian says that there

are at least 300,000 stray dogs in Pangasinan. It has also been conducting a massive vaccination program against rabies since March this year.

Espino said that the campaign shouldn’t only focus on dogs or animals, but also on responsible parenthood.

Parents should be mindful of their children so they could avoid getting bitten by stray dogs. Dexter A. See, Johanne Margarette R. Macob, PNA

This is the life. A local boy from Bantayan Island lies down on the sand and enjoys the pristine waters of the beach. This island was devastated by typhoon Yolanda in 2013 but is now recovering. RALPH PIEZAS

SM Foundation turns over health center to Cavite town SM Foundation officially turned over the renovated Main Health Center to the municipal government of Indang, Cavite on April 15.

The reconstructed center now has a laboratory, dental room, treatment area, consultation area, family planning room, prenatal/postnatal room, birthing area, immunization area, cold chain storage area & a TB Dots area.

It also has a wellness center for the elderly where senior citizens can get together and engage in activities and projects.

The FTS Wellness Center, named after the matriarch of the Sy Group of Companies, Felicidad T. Sy, focuses on the needs of the seniors in acknowledgment of their contributions to the community during

their productive years.

The Activity Center for Children on the other hand has a mini-playground fitted with toys & books for children’s use while awaiting consultation. It has a therapeutic effect for children seeking treatment.

Patients with minor illnesses may be treated in these health centers by a competent medical staff. Emergency tratement can also be administered to patients before they are brought to the hospital.

The Health Center obtained PhilHealth accreditation for the following services: Maternal Child Package (MCP) Primary Care Benefit , PCB TB DOTS & Dog Bite.

It had obtained its Sentrong Sigla Accreditation in 2009.

That thing called.... Improved accessibility and accomodations in Sagada, Mountain Province have made it a favored destination among trekkers. DAVID CHAN

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W E D N E S D AY: M AY 6 , 2 0 1 5 T H U R S D AY : A P R I L 2 3 , 2 0 1 5

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OPINION OPINION

OPINION

BURNT OFFERING A MORE

SEVILLA’S GENIE

PALACE spin doctors and administration apologists insult our intelligence when they suggest that the death of terrorist Basit Usman—presumably at the hands of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front—is proof that the rebel group is sincere about seeking peace after all, and that Congress should now pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law. about leaving a legacy upon retirement.

TALK “We areCommission entering a time legislators will soon be discussing passage of Former onwhen Elections Chairman Sixto Brillantes the Jr. certainly the aBangsamoro Law, and we will understand that the legislators andled the left problem at Basic the agency.

Shortly before he stepped down, Brillantes citizenry are looking for a concrete manifestation that would prove [the MILF’s the commission in approving a P268.8-million deal with Smartmatic for the commitment toofpeace], ” a Palace spokesman said, even the details Usrefurbishment the 80,000 precinct count optical scanbefore machines it hadoffirst man’s death had been officially verified. acquired from the same company for use in the 2010 elections.

ThePCOS suggestion was unmistakable—Usman’s cadaver was proof enough the The machines are supposed to be repaired and upgraded in timeoffor MILF’s commitment and lawmakers should rush the passage of the BBL, the the May 2016 national polls. draft hammered by government negotiators and the rebels create a The law Supreme Courtout however shot down the deal as contained in to Comelec new region in Muslim Mindanao with unprecedented autonomy.

Resolution 9922 and the Extended Warranty Contract Program 1, because are so many in this onecontracting. would be at a loss where to theThere poll agency failedholes to justify itsargument resort to that direct begin.

Petitioners of the case argued that the Comelec committed grave abuse A general, who spoke on condition anonymity, argues convincingly that Usof discretion in approving the deal, of which was anomalous and scandalous. man’s death is proof that the MILF actually coddled the terrorist all these They also said the poll body seemed to be rushing to tap Smartmatic foryears, the and offered him up only after they put their own peace accord at risk by slaughcontract. tering 44 police now commandos who were trying to serve arrest warrant for on the MaThe Comelec is entertaining several options onanhow to prepare laysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan Usman inout January. elections given the Supreme Court’s decision.and It could bid the refurbishThis practice of the MILF to harbor terrorists in areas it controls was conment of the 82,000 – it says there is still time because the process is supposed some time ago by the group’s own former spokesman, Eid Kabalu, who tofirmed last only five months. said it was ludicrous believe that the group was unaware or UsAnother option is totouse new machines altogether – 23,000ofofMarwan them – which man’s whereabouts their own backyard. are now still in theinbidding process.

Under this set-up, though, many preThe belated offering of Usman is a poorComelec sign of sincerity because his death cincts would share a single machine. The spokesman has said this costs the and pales in comparison the death 44 police would slowMILF downvery the little, counting Yet another scheme to would entail of transportofficers who were merelyofenforcing in Mamasapano.

A trueAand more ing ballots from a group precinctsthe to alaw designated voting center. manual meaningful signbe of when sincerity would be the surrender of all MILF fighters who scenario would voting is manual with automated transmission of took part in the Mamasapano massacre, but this is a demand that the rebel group votes. An extreme scenario is having no elections at all, which some doomhas consistently rejected. sayers have mentioned to spook the people.

Finally, even if we were that thetime MILF seeking peace, The poll body assures ustoitaccept has enough to were put insincere place in any of these althis sincerity is not for passing theof BBL, wasCourt. drafted ternatives, justalone as soon assufficient it obtainsbasis the final decision the which Supreme by a issmall group of like-minded, in fact, thatcitithe This reassuring forlike-minded now, given individuals—so that we have little over the year before government often mistaken MILF of their zens troop tonegotiators the pollingare centers again. Weaswill see,spokesmen in the nextbecause few months, pronouncements.

The wisdom—or folly—of the BBL is not predicated on anywhether Comelec can be as confident as it sounds. body’s sincerity.

It isswept a draft with implications on theisentire country It is easy to get uplaw into theserious election frenzy, which expected to and must be vigorously debated, not approved by rubber stamp simply because intensify as October, the deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy, the rebels offered up a to dead much as athe catcampaign might offer its unsuspecting nears.

There is bound be terrorist, another circus season begins. master a dead mouse.

Through all this, we should remember that more fundamental than who will the MILF truly didwill killwin, the terrorist Usman afterinterest harboring for soas many get Ifelected is how they or lose. With equal andhim intensity we years, this is not a show of sincerity but a meager burnt offering, and one that watch the national and local races, let us ensure that the manner in which votesis notcast, commensurate tocanvassed the price being askedreflect in exchange. are counted and will truly the people’s will.

FUNDAMENTAL ISSUE

MORE CREDIT-GRABBING INEVITABLE DECLINE LOWDOWN LOWDOWN JOJOA. A. JOJO ROBLES ROBLES THE practically Moro inevitable: Islamic IT’S Liberation Front is startAll Presidents since 1986 ing to sound more have experienced drops and in more likeas itsthe partner popularity end ofacross their the negotiating the terms approaches. table, The curAquino administration, rent Chief Executive is no exwith each passing day. The ception to this phenomenon.

MILF wants to claim credit For instance, the wildly when things happenupon that popular Cory Aquino, willassumption make it look good and her to the highto office blameinothers whencould they est the land, get away with declaring a don’t. revolutionary The death of government Abdul Basit

Usman, associate of the tolate basically do whatever she Marwan, is being used wanted.

Nearing the end by both the governmentofin her tumultuous reign, Coryas Manila and the MILF could not even summon proof that the Muslim up seacessionists fraction of the crowdsto areearly working of supporters that were a bring peace to Mindanao. hallmark of her rallies when Thetook Moro rebels she on the task went of call-so far as to say that they have ing for the extension of lease delivered the fugitive bomb of the US military bases in maker as a “gift” the that govthe Philippines – atojob ernment, to show their sinher government miserably ceritytoand to speed up the failed accomplish. passage the Bangsamoro Cory’s of successors, for Basic Law; the palace heartvarious reasons, suffered the ily agrees. same fate. Fidel Ramos was But as by is usual whenAsian credhobbled the first it-grabbing pursuing currency crisis,and which wiped out the economicagenda gains that a propaganda are

given a higher priority than his hadthere ushered theterm truth, are in. a lot of Joseph Estrada, holes in the script.while And he the failed to complete his term, fact that the military conquickly from poputinues turned to insist thata Usman lar populist leader upon his was killed by his own bodyelection into a bad parody of guards, who were after the himself, until he was ousted $1-million bounty on his for his alleged involvement head, is just one of them. in the illegal numbers game As I recall, theother surrender of jueteng, among sins. of both Marwan and Usman And Gloria Macapagal Arby the was to part of the royo wasMILF helpless reverse agreement forged between the perception of her term Noynoy Aquino asPresident corruption-riddled, which and rebel chieftain Al-haj caused her survey numbers in their toMurad dip intoEbrahim negative territory. secret meeting in AquiTokyo President Noynoy in seems 2011. to That meeting the was no be suffering same fate ofby his described thepredecesMILF as

EDITOR

VIEWBACK FROM MALCOM CHANNEL ALEJANDRO ATTY. HARRY DEL ROSARIO ROQUE JR.

SEEING HAS OUR COMMISSION THROUGH ON HUMAN THE PLOY RIGHTS MADE A DIFFERENCE?

[ EDI TORI A L ]

EDITORI TORIAALL ] ] [ [ EDI

EDITOR EDITOR

lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph M O N D AY, A P R I L 2 7, 2 0 1 5 lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

OPINION

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ADELLE CHUA ADELLE CHUA ADELLE CHUA

CLEARLY, it was an offering of appeasement to gain approval for an EMBLEMATIC of the hypocrisy and mismanagement unlawful act. that have become the hallmarks of this administration, Seeing through the ploy, the United the chief of the Bureau of Customs, John Phillip States rejected outright the offer of China Sevilla, resigned last week with disturbing allegations for joint use of the airstrip and berthing of political pressure and attempts to turn his agency docks it had constructed on reclaimed land into a milking cow to raise campaign funds for favored in the South China Sea. The US earlier had candidates in the 2016 elections. reprimanded China that building forward Sevilla was the third Customs commissioner HANOI, Vietnam—I am in the capital of military bases is destabilizing the peace to leave the agency under the administration of Vietnam as a resource person in a semiandon security of theHuman region. Rights ComPresident Benigno Aquino III, who has made the fight nar “National A Chinese militaryfrom official against corruption the touchstone of his leadership. missions: Experiences the suggested Region” that the by UStheand otherAdenaer international Sevilla’s two predecessors had left the bureau amid sponsored Konrad Stiforganizations could use the nearly allegations of corruption, tarnishing Mr. Aquino’s claims tung.

I accepted the invitation because of of good governance. Sevilla took over in December 2013 acompleted long desire toairstrip evaluate the andaffectivity pier of for with the promise of cleaning up what is widely perceived our own Commission Human Rights international relief andofrescue operations. as the most corrupt agency in the bureaucracy. since itsthe establishment through 1987 Use of military facilities on the reclaimed That promise came crashing down less than two Constitution 28 offered years ago. invitation land was not to This the Philippines years later with Sevilla’s resignation. finally me tojurisdiction the opportunity whichgave claims of to thefinalarea In announcing his resignation, Sevilla said he was lyunder conduct this long-delayed study. the 200-mile economic exclusion being pressured to appoint certain people to “very The of starting point Nations has to beConvention the very zone the United sensitive” positions ahead of the 2016 elections, and high expectations of the people that the on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). admitted that he could not finish the job of ending CHR will help promote and protect huForeign corruption at the bureau. manDepartment rights in theofcountry when Affairs they spokesman Charles Jose said Chinese “I don’t compromise on morality,” the resigning created it in the Constitutionthe itself.

Its offerhead, was Chairperson merely aimed at deflecting Customs chief said. “The law is clear on what is first Mary Bautista, international criticism of its unilateral allowed and [what is] not.” should be credited for safeguarding the and illegal reclamation of land which In its first statement following the resignation, the independence of the constitutional bodyis unsettling only the stability the Palace conspicuously ignored Sevilla’s allegations, from politicalnot interference.

Congressof then region also its ecosystem. and simply announced his replacement, a person took thebut appointment of the Chair and comments on FB posts—manythe of The BBL, underscored theCommission moralreach rightis from the private sector with extensive interests Commissioners of the expansion of China’s naval them betray the pathetic ignorance a State to its integrity.

None of in several brokerage-related companies. A Palace should be submitted for conformation also of raising concern when it announced PENSÉES behind them. But again, they to are these of social justice spokesman assured the public that there would be the Commission on a joint seapoints exercise withAppointments.

Russia theory in the red flags that invite close scrutiny,Rightfully if and moral theology were addressed no conflict of interest, as the new Customs chief, so, the Supreme Court ruled Mediterranean.

Geopolitical experts see FR. RANHILIO only because, in their sheer irratioby the posted comments.

The Alberto D. Lina, would divest himself of his interest that Chairperson Bautista and her comthe move as a counterfoil to US initiatives CALLANGAN nality, they sound the alarm to the in his brokerage company—but said nothing of his bishops were rather reminded that missioners were not among those public in the Pacific.

With China looking for AQUINO holdings in at least 10 other corporations. intellectual bankruptcy that makes officers whose appointments needed consome priests were pedophiles.

They an ally, it’s natural to turn to Russia, as The announcement did little to engender firmation Congress. the a werebyalso told that it insulated was shamea counterbalancing actThis that could see FIRST, a disclaimer. One national confidence. chair ful andformembers of thebeen Commission them to have involved return to the Cold War. daily, through an online post, atAre we expected to believe that Sevilla’s replacement from political interference. in the Pajero scandal. It would be tributed to me the statement that Bounty onenumerates Usman’s head would truly divest himself of all his lucrative The Constitution powless bothersome merely to the laugh off the Chief Justice had, in effect, preThe story of Filipino terrorist business interests to take a job in the government ers ofsuch the Commission.

These include the obvious illogicality, but ifAbdul this judged the Binay case by her line of BasitisUsman is countrymen, a classic case or oftobetrayal We can and oughtpower in an administration with only a year left? Or is his to investigate, the power how our a issue good questioning at the oral argument. and blood money.

Usman was killed, not appointment part of efforts that Sevilla resisted to summons, cite in contempt and powerfail to part of them, reason (or, better, to raise the bar of I made no such statement. Someby assistance pursuing government troops who made make sure the ruling party stays in power after 2016? ask from any branch of governto do so!), that demonstration of one did call me up however for public discourse and his world smaller, but Moro Islamic Aquino’s first Customs commissioner, who ment. we have a by serious obstacle in aHere, dreadful want in his thoughtfulness an interview on the subject. I gave resigned under a cloud of suspicion when 2,000 Liberation Front bodyguards.

Wounded the task evaluating theshould performance set more stringent andofreasonability make of us him onIy curt replies though he container vans vanished from the bureau in 2011, the Commission.

For while the on courts and and with a $1-million bounty his head, fearful of democracy’s future instandards for the did attempt, by leading questions, was a close associate of Lina.

DOJ whose performance may prevails, be meaUsman had become an inconvenience deed.

When irrationality to make me agree with him on Lina was also Customs chief during the previous sured in terms case disposal its exchange in public to the MILF of which did not and/ wantorAFP anything frightful is possible! this assessment—an enticement I administration, before he left abruptly as part of the conviction rate, the CHR inroads can onlyinto investitroops to make further their Tracing in broad strokes the hisspaces. steadfastly resisted. I made clear: “Hyatt 10” Cabinet members who abandoned the gate but power to prosecute. toryhas ofno theMaguindanao. condonation doctrine in stronghold in I did not think it was right for me Arroyo government over an election-related scandal In the case of Carino Commission ofin this jurisdiction, Ivs. pointed out that Usman escaped the police operation to comment on on-going proceedin 2005, and who now hold considerable influence in Human Rights, the Supreme Court defined it has been in our jurisprudence for Mamasapano on January 25 which left ings. What I did, however, was the Aquino administration. the full extent of now—carried the Commissions’ investime overand from his some Malaysian cohort Marwan 44 write a Facebook post on the docAdministration allies in the Senate have been fulsome tigative powers: “The function of receiving it impossible for a genuine democAmericanForces jurisprudence, and that it PNP-Special commandos dead. trine of condonation.

Justice Adolf in their praise for Sevilla, but have shown none of their evidence and has ascertaining therefrom the racy to long endure.

When Archactually roots in our democratic Marwan was finally killed, the it always has where the MILF was to serve valid warrants of arrest On the run since, Usman was wounded surveys show that Aquino’s poll offinvestigation survey data Azcuna with was dismissive elections the first to comment: usualremains eagernessundiminished. to launch a congressional facts of a controversy notnot a judicial funcbishop Soc Villegas issued a stateconvictions.

I iswas advocating by government troops who were closing Manila government had survey to pay concerned, immediately took the – captured not asare acts to build confidence He thatto I had numbers continuing to plumb statements about justthought continuing Theinto reality, as survey after allegations of corruption in the Bureau of Customs, tion, properly speaking.

To be considered onthat the draft BBL, perpetuation of this piece of juin onthe him. the shown, price ofislosing 44 members side ofwork the rebels, the succinctly. protest in peacement talks should ul-an almost the over doctrine Hethe agreed particularly since Aquino such a probe such, the faculty of Ireceiving evidence and unfamiliar depths despite his do the“friendly of governance, Com- new, has that is might justof expose common comment was: “Bakit risprudence. wasUsman however arguing No longer useful, was made with my analysis that efforts, the doctrine forces” ratherhis than political opponents. making factual conclusions in a controverits elite Special Action Force comof the ArmedSecretary Forces itself. timately lead to the passage of the I expect the campaign to Herminio barely keeping head above the munications nakikiaalam na naman ang simthat it was unreasonable and sacrificial lambnot to show was has that its with roots in our there can be no doubtand that Sevilla mustnow be says sya must beinaccompanied by the the MILF authority mandoofBut unit.

Compare this how BBL. intensify. further Coloma “there is understanding waters negative acceptability bahan dito?”. Nowhere was there had fact been consistently apcooperating in ridding itself of extremists encouraged—or compelled—to name names and of popular sovereignty.

That note of of applying the law to those factual concluThe killing of Usman last significant Malacañang, its peace * * * option There is no roomthrough for improvement popularity.

And there is nothing any other serious analysisfor of the argu- plied by the High Court. The comprovide a detailed account of what he knows. His failure sions the end thatthe theway controversy mayto concurrence, I consider priceless! in itsto ranks to pave for Congress Aquino, really.

But history and the ment advanced, no serious and... [a] need to continually ascerthat he can do, it seems, to reverse Sunday follows the same distresspanel, took on all comers to deHere’s the problem, as far as I examiments I got labeled me a lackey of to do so would be a betrayal of the morality he claims bepass decided or determined authoritatively, The next day, I wrote an extended the controversial draft Bangsamoro nation and the rebuttal of the reasons the Binays, a fraud, a charlatan— “stickiness” the popular perceptain the needs of our people. ” paper—and the ingtrend. pattern.

Right after mili- service fend MILF after Mamasapano canearned see it: can governled to his resignation, andthe the public hethe vowed finally and subject to such aparticle for this a ofHow Basicpathetic Law.definitively, adduced.

Nothing more than peals an actually, ifashilarious, betion that he is a failure as President What Aquino seems hell-bent on It istodeclared significant that Malacanang tary that the Filipino and you quickly get the picture. ment say that the MILF should uphold when he took office at the Bureau of Customs. or modes of review may be prolot of flak for it. I do not mind the The $1-million prize on Usman’s attack on bishops and priests.

The cause they were attacks on me, not are against him. doing toand continue making public seems toInhave abandoned the stratopening his mouth about corruption bomb-making expert was killed And is remember that thebutoriginal give upthe Marwan and Usman as a vided by law. Thistofunction, to repeat, the criticism, I am alarmed that headon was resistInbut claiming Archbishop, in a personal capacity, myhard argument. stark contrastit Iofsee no reason why Aquino’s numappearances prove he is still egy pretending to ignore re- Mr. influence inthe thethe bureau, Sevilla hastotoget Commission does not have. ” kind I got is symptomatic a more by ofhis ownpeddling men, MILF operation boththat Marwan and prerequisite for peace talks, call has were become contentious for Jemy the MILF discussedinthe necessity of inclusiveposts of Prof.

Gatlet the the genie of the show bottle, no amountwas of first It is thisthe lackwho of prosecutorial powers would improve the coming very much in control sults of surveys which anand working, insidious malady that bers is tosubsequent claimed that its out fighters had gotUsman described byand the itslethal own effort toequating get peace commanders are quarreling to ness, warned against dula of the University of Asia asand doubletalk from him or his former employers now democracy: intolerance possessor ofasgame-changing en- for dissent! in Mindanao with the passage of irreversible decline in his popular-as the ten to him first; Malacañang, government a police operation Continued on A11 Continued on A11 Continued on A11 can put it back is good reason to ignore Continued on A10 If subsequent ity. Where once thein. palace shrugged dorsement powers.There

THE REAL THREAT

granting equal status from gooditgovernance towith batheinfrastructure Philippine government sic as he enters by sixth holding the andthe lastsit-down year of hisin term. a third-party country.

But I see no reason Of course, like other Presithe rebels had to promise only whyI can Aquino’s dents him, Aquino is that before they would yield the fighting the waning of his numbers hope the would people Malaysian Marwan, the famous “Bomber ofpopuBali,” improve the once-stratospheric will notin allow larity withFilipino everything that and his associate coming days. he’s got.

And like those who Usman – something that, themselves to be went before him,proved, he seems as later events the doomed to fail. rebels had no intention of gypped as their Aquino’s reason for resistdoing. the decline hastototake do with President has ingIndeed, it had that ensuring that he stays out of sors, for yet another reason epic failure of an extraction been The by the entirely. secondMILF. Aqui- jail when he steps down. This operation in January in no has been stuck with the is why he repeatedly declares Mamasapano, heart days, wheninhethe attends “noynoying” tag, which has these of MILF territory, to get led to the widespread belief even the most insignificant Marwan.

In the four years that he has done nothing of of public functions, that he is since Tokyo, thethat MILF a “great leap forward” be- not a lame duck and his significance after unreasondid nothing to turn over cause it was able to hoodpower to make his chosen ably raising expectations that the terrorists; and year’s when wink President into successor win in next he couldthedeliver everything

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W E D N E S D AY: M AY 6 , 2 0 1 5 T H U R S D AY : A P R I L 2 3 , 2 0 1 5

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OPINION OPINION

OPINION

BURNT OFFERING A MORE

SEVILLA’S GENIE

PALACE spin doctors and administration apologists insult our intelligence when they suggest that the death of terrorist Basit Usman—presumably at the hands of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front—is proof that the rebel group is sincere about seeking peace after all, and that Congress should now pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law. about leaving a legacy upon retirement.

TALK “We areCommission entering a time legislators will soon be discussing passage of Former onwhen Elections Chairman Sixto Brillantes the Jr. certainly the aBangsamoro Law, and we will understand that the legislators andled the left problem at Basic the agency.

Shortly before he stepped down, Brillantes citizenry are looking for a concrete manifestation that would prove [the MILF’s the commission in approving a P268.8-million deal with Smartmatic for the commitment toofpeace], ” a Palace spokesman said, even the details Usrefurbishment the 80,000 precinct count optical scanbefore machines it hadoffirst man’s death had been officially verified. acquired from the same company for use in the 2010 elections.

ThePCOS suggestion was unmistakable—Usman’s cadaver was proof enough the The machines are supposed to be repaired and upgraded in timeoffor MILF’s commitment and lawmakers should rush the passage of the BBL, the the May 2016 national polls. draft hammered by government negotiators and the rebels create a The law Supreme Courtout however shot down the deal as contained in to Comelec new region in Muslim Mindanao with unprecedented autonomy.

Resolution 9922 and the Extended Warranty Contract Program 1, because are so many in this onecontracting. would be at a loss where to theThere poll agency failedholes to justify itsargument resort to that direct begin.

Petitioners of the case argued that the Comelec committed grave abuse A general, who spoke on condition anonymity, argues convincingly that Usof discretion in approving the deal, of which was anomalous and scandalous. man’s death is proof that the MILF actually coddled the terrorist all these They also said the poll body seemed to be rushing to tap Smartmatic foryears, the and offered him up only after they put their own peace accord at risk by slaughcontract. tering 44 police now commandos who were trying to serve arrest warrant for on the MaThe Comelec is entertaining several options onanhow to prepare laysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan Usman inout January. elections given the Supreme Court’s decision.and It could bid the refurbishThis practice of the MILF to harbor terrorists in areas it controls was conment of the 82,000 – it says there is still time because the process is supposed some time ago by the group’s own former spokesman, Eid Kabalu, who tofirmed last only five months. said it was ludicrous believe that the group was unaware or UsAnother option is totouse new machines altogether – 23,000ofofMarwan them – which man’s whereabouts their own backyard. are now still in theinbidding process.

Under this set-up, though, many preThe belated offering of Usman is a poorComelec sign of sincerity because his death cincts would share a single machine. The spokesman has said this costs the and pales in comparison the death 44 police would slowMILF downvery the little, counting Yet another scheme to would entail of transportofficers who were merelyofenforcing in Mamasapano.

A trueAand more ing ballots from a group precinctsthe to alaw designated voting center. manual meaningful signbe of when sincerity would be the surrender of all MILF fighters who scenario would voting is manual with automated transmission of took part in the Mamasapano massacre, but this is a demand that the rebel group votes. An extreme scenario is having no elections at all, which some doomhas consistently rejected. sayers have mentioned to spook the people.

Finally, even if we were that thetime MILF seeking peace, The poll body assures ustoitaccept has enough to were put insincere place in any of these althis sincerity is not for passing theof BBL, wasCourt. drafted ternatives, justalone as soon assufficient it obtainsbasis the final decision the which Supreme by a issmall group of like-minded, in fact, thatcitithe This reassuring forlike-minded now, given individuals—so that we have little over the year before government often mistaken MILF of their zens troop tonegotiators the pollingare centers again. Weaswill see,spokesmen in the nextbecause few months, pronouncements.

The wisdom—or folly—of the BBL is not predicated on anywhether Comelec can be as confident as it sounds. body’s sincerity.

It isswept a draft with implications on theisentire country It is easy to get uplaw into theserious election frenzy, which expected to and must be vigorously debated, not approved by rubber stamp simply because intensify as October, the deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy, the rebels offered up a to dead much as athe catcampaign might offer its unsuspecting nears.

There is bound be terrorist, another circus season begins. master a dead mouse.

Through all this, we should remember that more fundamental than who will the MILF truly didwill killwin, the terrorist Usman afterinterest harboring for soas many get Ifelected is how they or lose. With equal andhim intensity we years, this is not a show of sincerity but a meager burnt offering, and one that watch the national and local races, let us ensure that the manner in which votesis notcast, commensurate tocanvassed the price being askedreflect in exchange. are counted and will truly the people’s will.

FUNDAMENTAL ISSUE

MORE CREDIT-GRABBING INEVITABLE DECLINE LOWDOWN LOWDOWN JOJOA. A. JOJO ROBLES ROBLES THE practically Moro inevitable: Islamic IT’S Liberation Front is startAll Presidents since 1986 ing to sound more have experienced drops and in more likeas itsthe partner popularity end ofacross their the negotiating the terms approaches. table, The curAquino administration, rent Chief Executive is no exwith each passing day. The ception to this phenomenon.

MILF wants to claim credit For instance, the wildly when things happenupon that popular Cory Aquino, willassumption make it look good and her to the highto office blameinothers whencould they est the land, get away with declaring a don’t. revolutionary The death of government Abdul Basit

Usman, associate of the tolate basically do whatever she Marwan, is being used wanted.

Nearing the end by both the governmentofin her tumultuous reign, Coryas Manila and the MILF could not even summon proof that the Muslim up seacessionists fraction of the crowdsto areearly working of supporters that were a bring peace to Mindanao. hallmark of her rallies when Thetook Moro rebels she on the task went of call-so far as to say that they have ing for the extension of lease delivered the fugitive bomb of the US military bases in maker as a “gift” the that govthe Philippines – atojob ernment, to show their sinher government miserably ceritytoand to speed up the failed accomplish. passage the Bangsamoro Cory’s of successors, for Basic Law; the palace heartvarious reasons, suffered the ily agrees. same fate. Fidel Ramos was But as by is usual whenAsian credhobbled the first it-grabbing pursuing currency crisis,and which wiped out the economicagenda gains that a propaganda are

given a higher priority than his hadthere ushered theterm truth, are in. a lot of Joseph Estrada, holes in the script.while And he the failed to complete his term, fact that the military conquickly from poputinues turned to insist thata Usman lar populist leader upon his was killed by his own bodyelection into a bad parody of guards, who were after the himself, until he was ousted $1-million bounty on his for his alleged involvement head, is just one of them. in the illegal numbers game As I recall, theother surrender of jueteng, among sins. of both Marwan and Usman And Gloria Macapagal Arby the was to part of the royo wasMILF helpless reverse agreement forged between the perception of her term Noynoy Aquino asPresident corruption-riddled, which and rebel chieftain Al-haj caused her survey numbers in their toMurad dip intoEbrahim negative territory. secret meeting in AquiTokyo President Noynoy in seems 2011. to That meeting the was no be suffering same fate ofby his described thepredecesMILF as

EDITOR

VIEWBACK FROM MALCOM CHANNEL ALEJANDRO ATTY. HARRY DEL ROSARIO ROQUE JR.

SEEING HAS OUR COMMISSION THROUGH ON HUMAN THE PLOY RIGHTS MADE A DIFFERENCE?

[ EDI TORI A L ]

EDITORI TORIAALL ] ] [ [ EDI

EDITOR EDITOR

lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph M O N D AY, A P R I L 2 7, 2 0 1 5 lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

OPINION

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ADELLE CHUA ADELLE CHUA ADELLE CHUA

CLEARLY, it was an offering of appeasement to gain approval for an EMBLEMATIC of the hypocrisy and mismanagement unlawful act. that have become the hallmarks of this administration, Seeing through the ploy, the United the chief of the Bureau of Customs, John Phillip States rejected outright the offer of China Sevilla, resigned last week with disturbing allegations for joint use of the airstrip and berthing of political pressure and attempts to turn his agency docks it had constructed on reclaimed land into a milking cow to raise campaign funds for favored in the South China Sea. The US earlier had candidates in the 2016 elections. reprimanded China that building forward Sevilla was the third Customs commissioner HANOI, Vietnam—I am in the capital of military bases is destabilizing the peace to leave the agency under the administration of Vietnam as a resource person in a semiandon security of theHuman region. Rights ComPresident Benigno Aquino III, who has made the fight nar “National A Chinese militaryfrom official against corruption the touchstone of his leadership. missions: Experiences the suggested Region” that the by UStheand otherAdenaer international Sevilla’s two predecessors had left the bureau amid sponsored Konrad Stiforganizations could use the nearly allegations of corruption, tarnishing Mr. Aquino’s claims tung.

I accepted the invitation because of of good governance. Sevilla took over in December 2013 acompleted long desire toairstrip evaluate the andaffectivity pier of for with the promise of cleaning up what is widely perceived our own Commission Human Rights international relief andofrescue operations. as the most corrupt agency in the bureaucracy. since itsthe establishment through 1987 Use of military facilities on the reclaimed That promise came crashing down less than two Constitution 28 offered years ago. invitation land was not to This the Philippines years later with Sevilla’s resignation. finally me tojurisdiction the opportunity whichgave claims of to thefinalarea In announcing his resignation, Sevilla said he was lyunder conduct this long-delayed study. the 200-mile economic exclusion being pressured to appoint certain people to “very The of starting point Nations has to beConvention the very zone the United sensitive” positions ahead of the 2016 elections, and high expectations of the people that the on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). admitted that he could not finish the job of ending CHR will help promote and protect huForeign corruption at the bureau. manDepartment rights in theofcountry when Affairs they spokesman Charles Jose said Chinese “I don’t compromise on morality,” the resigning created it in the Constitutionthe itself.

Its offerhead, was Chairperson merely aimed at deflecting Customs chief said. “The law is clear on what is first Mary Bautista, international criticism of its unilateral allowed and [what is] not.” should be credited for safeguarding the and illegal reclamation of land which In its first statement following the resignation, the independence of the constitutional bodyis unsettling only the stability the Palace conspicuously ignored Sevilla’s allegations, from politicalnot interference.

Congressof then region also its ecosystem. and simply announced his replacement, a person took thebut appointment of the Chair and comments on FB posts—manythe of The BBL, underscored theCommission moralreach rightis from the private sector with extensive interests Commissioners of the expansion of China’s naval them betray the pathetic ignorance a State to its integrity.

None of in several brokerage-related companies. A Palace should be submitted for conformation also of raising concern when it announced PENSÉES behind them. But again, they to are these of social justice spokesman assured the public that there would be the Commission on a joint seapoints exercise withAppointments.

Russia theory in the red flags that invite close scrutiny,Rightfully if and moral theology were addressed no conflict of interest, as the new Customs chief, so, the Supreme Court ruled Mediterranean.

Geopolitical experts see FR. RANHILIO only because, in their sheer irratioby the posted comments.

The Alberto D. Lina, would divest himself of his interest that Chairperson Bautista and her comthe move as a counterfoil to US initiatives CALLANGAN nality, they sound the alarm to the in his brokerage company—but said nothing of his bishops were rather reminded that missioners were not among those public in the Pacific.

With China looking for AQUINO holdings in at least 10 other corporations. intellectual bankruptcy that makes officers whose appointments needed consome priests were pedophiles.

They an ally, it’s natural to turn to Russia, as The announcement did little to engender firmation Congress. the a werebyalso told that it insulated was shamea counterbalancing actThis that could see FIRST, a disclaimer. One national confidence. chair ful andformembers of thebeen Commission them to have involved return to the Cold War. daily, through an online post, atAre we expected to believe that Sevilla’s replacement from political interference. in the Pajero scandal. It would be tributed to me the statement that Bounty onenumerates Usman’s head would truly divest himself of all his lucrative The Constitution powless bothersome merely to the laugh off the Chief Justice had, in effect, preThe story of Filipino terrorist business interests to take a job in the government ers ofsuch the Commission.

These include the obvious illogicality, but ifAbdul this judged the Binay case by her line of BasitisUsman is countrymen, a classic case or oftobetrayal We can and oughtpower in an administration with only a year left? Or is his to investigate, the power how our a issue good questioning at the oral argument. and blood money.

Usman was killed, not appointment part of efforts that Sevilla resisted to summons, cite in contempt and powerfail to part of them, reason (or, better, to raise the bar of I made no such statement. Someby assistance pursuing government troops who made make sure the ruling party stays in power after 2016? ask from any branch of governto do so!), that demonstration of one did call me up however for public discourse and his world smaller, but Moro Islamic Aquino’s first Customs commissioner, who ment. we have a by serious obstacle in aHere, dreadful want in his thoughtfulness an interview on the subject. I gave resigned under a cloud of suspicion when 2,000 Liberation Front bodyguards.

Wounded the task evaluating theshould performance set more stringent andofreasonability make of us him onIy curt replies though he container vans vanished from the bureau in 2011, the Commission.

For while the on courts and and with a $1-million bounty his head, fearful of democracy’s future instandards for the did attempt, by leading questions, was a close associate of Lina.

DOJ whose performance may prevails, be meaUsman had become an inconvenience deed.

When irrationality to make me agree with him on Lina was also Customs chief during the previous sured in terms case disposal its exchange in public to the MILF of which did not and/ wantorAFP anything frightful is possible! this assessment—an enticement I administration, before he left abruptly as part of the conviction rate, the CHR inroads can onlyinto investitroops to make further their Tracing in broad strokes the hisspaces. steadfastly resisted. I made clear: “Hyatt 10” Cabinet members who abandoned the gate but power to prosecute. toryhas ofno theMaguindanao. condonation doctrine in stronghold in I did not think it was right for me Arroyo government over an election-related scandal In the case of Carino Commission ofin this jurisdiction, Ivs. pointed out that Usman escaped the police operation to comment on on-going proceedin 2005, and who now hold considerable influence in Human Rights, the Supreme Court defined it has been in our jurisprudence for Mamasapano on January 25 which left ings. What I did, however, was the Aquino administration. the full extent of now—carried the Commissions’ investime overand from his some Malaysian cohort Marwan 44 write a Facebook post on the docAdministration allies in the Senate have been fulsome tigative powers: “The function of receiving it impossible for a genuine democAmericanForces jurisprudence, and that it PNP-Special commandos dead. trine of condonation.

Justice Adolf in their praise for Sevilla, but have shown none of their evidence and has ascertaining therefrom the racy to long endure.

When Archactually roots in our democratic Marwan was finally killed, the it always has where the MILF was to serve valid warrants of arrest On the run since, Usman was wounded surveys show that Aquino’s poll offinvestigation survey data Azcuna with was dismissive elections the first to comment: usualremains eagernessundiminished. to launch a congressional facts of a controversy notnot a judicial funcbishop Soc Villegas issued a stateconvictions.

I iswas advocating by government troops who were closing Manila government had survey to pay concerned, immediately took the – captured not asare acts to build confidence He thatto I had numbers continuing to plumb statements about justthought continuing Theinto reality, as survey after allegations of corruption in the Bureau of Customs, tion, properly speaking.

To be considered onthat the draft BBL, perpetuation of this piece of juin onthe him. the shown, price ofislosing 44 members side ofwork the rebels, the succinctly. protest in peacement talks should ul-an almost the over doctrine Hethe agreed particularly since Aquino such a probe such, the faculty of Ireceiving evidence and unfamiliar depths despite his do the“friendly of governance, Com- new, has that is might justof expose common comment was: “Bakit risprudence. wasUsman however arguing No longer useful, was made with my analysis that efforts, the doctrine forces” ratherhis than political opponents. making factual conclusions in a controverits elite Special Action Force comof the ArmedSecretary Forces itself. timately lead to the passage of the I expect the campaign to Herminio barely keeping head above the munications nakikiaalam na naman ang simthat it was unreasonable and sacrificial lambnot to show was has that its with roots in our there can be no doubtand that Sevilla mustnow be says sya must beinaccompanied by the the MILF authority mandoofBut unit.

Compare this how BBL. intensify. further Coloma “there is understanding waters negative acceptability bahan dito?”. Nowhere was there had fact been consistently apcooperating in ridding itself of extremists encouraged—or compelled—to name names and of popular sovereignty.

That note of of applying the law to those factual concluThe killing of Usman last significant Malacañang, its peace * * * option There is no roomthrough for improvement popularity.

And there is nothing any other serious analysisfor of the argu- plied by the High Court. The comprovide a detailed account of what he knows. His failure sions the end thatthe theway controversy mayto concurrence, I consider priceless! in itsto ranks to pave for Congress Aquino, really.

But history and the ment advanced, no serious and... [a] need to continually ascerthat he can do, it seems, to reverse Sunday follows the same distresspanel, took on all comers to deHere’s the problem, as far as I examiments I got labeled me a lackey of to do so would be a betrayal of the morality he claims bepass decided or determined authoritatively, The next day, I wrote an extended the controversial draft Bangsamoro nation and the rebuttal of the reasons the Binays, a fraud, a charlatan— “stickiness” the popular perceptain the needs of our people. ” paper—and the ingtrend. pattern.

Right after mili- service fend MILF after Mamasapano canearned see it: can governled to his resignation, andthe the public hethe vowed finally and subject to such aparticle for this a ofHow Basicpathetic Law.definitively, adduced.

Nothing more than peals an actually, ifashilarious, betion that he is a failure as President What Aquino seems hell-bent on It istodeclared significant that Malacanang tary that the Filipino and you quickly get the picture. ment say that the MILF should uphold when he took office at the Bureau of Customs. or modes of review may be prolot of flak for it. I do not mind the The $1-million prize on Usman’s attack on bishops and priests.

The cause they were attacks on me, not are against him. doing toand continue making public seems toInhave abandoned the stratopening his mouth about corruption bomb-making expert was killed And is remember that thebutoriginal give upthe Marwan and Usman as a vided by law. Thistofunction, to repeat, the criticism, I am alarmed that headon was resistInbut claiming Archbishop, in a personal capacity, myhard argument. stark contrastit Iofsee no reason why Aquino’s numappearances prove he is still egy pretending to ignore re- Mr. influence inthe thethe bureau, Sevilla hastotoget Commission does not have. ” kind I got is symptomatic a more by ofhis ownpeddling men, MILF operation boththat Marwan and prerequisite for peace talks, call has were become contentious for Jemy the MILF discussedinthe necessity of inclusiveposts of Prof.

Gatlet the the genie of the show bottle, no amountwas of first It is thisthe lackwho of prosecutorial powers would improve the coming very much in control sults of surveys which anand working, insidious malady that bers is tosubsequent claimed that its out fighters had gotUsman described byand the itslethal own effort toequating get peace commanders are quarreling to ness, warned against dula of the University of Asia asand doubletalk from him or his former employers now democracy: intolerance possessor ofasgame-changing en- for dissent! in Mindanao with the passage of irreversible decline in his popular-as the ten to him first; Malacañang, government a police operation Continued on A11 Continued on A11 Continued on A11 can put it back is good reason to ignore Continued on A10 If subsequent ity. Where once thein. palace shrugged dorsement powers.There

THE REAL THREAT

granting equal status from gooditgovernance towith batheinfrastructure Philippine government sic as he enters by sixth holding the andthe lastsit-down year of hisin term. a third-party country.

But I see no reason Of course, like other Presithe rebels had to promise only whyI can Aquino’s dents him, Aquino is that before they would yield the fighting the waning of his numbers hope the would people Malaysian Marwan, the famous “Bomber ofpopuBali,” improve the once-stratospheric will notin allow larity withFilipino everything that and his associate coming days. he’s got.

And like those who Usman – something that, themselves to be went before him,proved, he seems as later events the doomed to fail. rebels had no intention of gypped as their Aquino’s reason for resistdoing. the decline hastototake do with President has ingIndeed, it had that ensuring that he stays out of sors, for yet another reason epic failure of an extraction been The by the entirely. secondMILF. Aqui- jail when he steps down. This operation in January in no has been stuck with the is why he repeatedly declares Mamasapano, heart days, wheninhethe attends “noynoying” tag, which has these of MILF territory, to get led to the widespread belief even the most insignificant Marwan.

In the four years that he has done nothing of of public functions, that he is since Tokyo, thethat MILF a “great leap forward” be- not a lame duck and his significance after unreasondid nothing to turn over cause it was able to hoodpower to make his chosen ably raising expectations that the terrorists; and year’s when wink President into successor win in next he couldthedeliver everything

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A10 MY KIND OF CANDIDATES THOSE of us in TO THE Metro Manila who commute to work, go POINT to school or any other EMIL P. place, suffering traffic JURADO jams and the MRT (if we are lucky enough not to be offloaded because of daily glitches), can be consoled by the fact that traffic in Jakarta, Indonesia is much worse, so that it is considered the worst in the world.

According to a study, millions of Indonesians may have to wait even longer than another decade if $4 billion worth of new railway projects don’t work as planned.

In Jakarta, the average driver has to stop 33,240 times a year—more than twice the number in New York. The average speed is a mere 8.3 kilometers per hour.

To make matters worse for Jakarta commuters, at least a thousand new cars and motorbikes are added to the city roads. I have been to Jakarta, and during city tours, travel guides continually have to apologize for being late to destinations. My gulay, some commuters there now ride bicycles! *** While there’s universal commendation on the appointment of Dean Andy Bautista as Comelec chairman because of his excellent track record as PCGG chairman and his known probity and integrity, the same cannot be said of the appointment of former Cadiz City Mayor Rowena Guanzon. She is a known ally of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, a Liberal Party stalwart and lackey of President Aquino.

The other appointee, Sheriff Abas, a Muslim, is an unknown entity. I cannot say anything about him.

From the start I have considered Bautista, a Harvard Law School graduate and former dean of the Far Eastern University Institute of Law, as one of the few jewels of the Aquino administration. He is an achiever and performer.

During his former stint at PCGG as chairman, Bautista not only recovered over half of the hidden and ill-gotten wealth of Marcos and his cronies. He also restored people’s faith and confidence in the PCGG, which had sunk into a new low because of its officials involved in graft and corrupWe certainly need tion.

Bautista’s stint at young and idealistic PCGG was challengpeople in the Senate. ing enough, but his new post gives him a greater challenge: He must make next year’s presidential election reflective of the will of the people.

The advantage of Bautista is that he’s young and idealistic. As such, he cannot afford to spoil and tarnish his excellent track record and his name.

To Andy, a good friend, I say: Good luck, and remember that you owe your allegiance to the people, not to your appointing power. The people expect a clean and honest election next year. *** There are four names being mentioned as probable senatorial candidates—Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin “FM” G. Romualdez, Valenzuela Rep. Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian, Manila Vice Mayor Isko Morano and Metro Manila Development Authority chairman Francis Tolentino. In my book, they all deserve to be in the Senate.

Romualdez has proven himself as a credible oppositionist, heading the independent minority bloc at the House of Represenative. As president of the Philippine Constitution Association, he has made a name for himself. And as a Romualdez, he has Ilocano (especially in Ilocos Norte), and Visayan political base.

Win Gatchalian is young and idealistic and has a good track record in the House. We certainly need young people in Congress. Isko Moreno has proven himself, as vice mayor to Mayor Joseph Estrada, as a man of competence and integrity.

Romualdez and Gatchalian are in the lineup of Vice President Jojo Binay’s Senate slate, and Moreno and Tolentino in the administration senatorial ticket.

Leading the proposed administration Senate slate are re-electionists Senate President Franklin Drilon, Senators Ralph Recto, Sergio Osmena III and Teofisto Guingona III, and former Senators Panfilo Lacson and Francis Pangilinan.

But, among the members of the Aquino cabinet whom I consider quite credible and who have a good chance of winning are MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

W E D N E S D AY: M AY 6 , 2 0 1 5

OPINION

lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

JOBLESS IN A SEA OF MONEY IN A previous column, I wrote about a Hong Kong Chinese designer bag manufacturer which put up four factories in Pampanga and instantly became the province’s biggest employer of full-time (not contractual) workers. Superl Philippines now employs 9,080 workers, most of them collegeeducated, producing the among the world’s best and best-made designer handbags. Employment will rise to 12,000 by the end of this year.

I write about these companies because of a recent strange phenomenon.

An unprecedented $10.08 billion investments were registered in the country last year, up a whopping 352 percent from $2.23 billion registered in 2013, and from negative $6.7 billion investments in 2012 (meaning Filipinos invested more abroad than foreigners did inside the country that year).

In addition, the country makes yearly from OFW remittances $26 billion plus another $15 billion from call centers and business process outsourcing (BPO).

In 2014 thus, we had easily $51 billion or P2.26 trillion at last year’s peso-dollar rate. The P2.26 trillion is enough money to create 2.26 million jobs last year alone – at P1 million cost to create each job.

But only less than 800,000 jobs were created – our normal job creation a year for the past ten years, meaning even if the P2.26 trillion did not come in and even if the president of the Philippines were a dog or a rat, the economy would have created 800,000 jobs just the same.

Where did the P2.26 trillion money go? How come we had 2.26 million unemployed last year? Despite the trillions that come into the country yearly, how come only 800,000 jobs are being created each year.?

The 2.26 million unemployment is on top of some 7 million who are underemployed—working only half of their working time or are overqualified for their current jobs. An example would be a college graduate working as a security guard or hamburger joint attendant.

Joseph Estrada has proved that you can be president of the Philippines—even if you are a college dropout.

That makes all of us virtually underemployed – because the biggest and most difficult job in the land, or in Asia, for that matter, can be had by a college dropout.

Unemployment has hardly been dented, down to just 6.6 percent as of October 2014, from 7 percent the previous one-year period in 2013. Money is coming in but it is being invested in places where there is no job creation – like the stock market, government securities, or takeover of existing companies or factories.

About 38.1 million Filipinos were employed in 2013. Most of them, however, do not have decent jobs and earn wages that cannot feed a family of four. The 38 million is an increase of 4 million jobs from 2008, five years ago, according to ILO figures. That implies a job creation of just 800,000 per year.

Some 1.8 million Filipinos are born every year.

That is also the rate of increase in the work force – 1.8 million, asVIRTUAL suming everyone of working age is employable or part of the work REALITY force. The Philippines is creating TONY jobs at less than half the rate it should be creating.

LOPEZ The 6.6 or 7 percent unemployment is the national average.

Unemployment is actually much higher, especially among the young. ILO says 16 of every 100 employable youth are out of work. One half of the country’s jobless are young. Young people are three times more likely to be jobless as their adult counterparts.

Considering their lack of decent employment and their bleak economic future, I am surprised why our college students and our young do not regularly storm the Batasan, the Senate, and Malacañang to demand for jobs and a better economic environment where they can have better job opportunities. Only our political dynasties are never jobless.

During our time in college, we regularly threw Molotov cocktails at the powers-that-be at the slightest provocation. Many of our ablest and most brilliant student leaders went underground and joined the Communist Party, in protest against the system.

Others, like Nur Misuari, formed rebel organizations like the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) which in turn gave birth to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

In the hinterlands of Mindanao, kids as young as ten, learn to fire a gun and do target practice using the faces of despised politicians and military types. Twothirds of the some 10,000 alleged victims of Ferdinand Marcos’s martial law were young. Thousands fell in the prime of their youth. Of course, many more survived martial law, finished their courses, here and abroad, only to be employed by equally corrupt and more incompetent presidents.

I suspect today’s young lack intellectual practice and are possessed of an uncanny ability to lack discernment. They give up to fight – which is their birthright in a democracy.

Today’s Congress costs taxpayers a minimum of P20 billion a year. At P1 million to create one job, P20 billion can instantly create 20,000 jobs. Yet, what do we get from our Congress? Saliva, enough saliva to replenish the waters of the Pacific Ocean if it were drained like a dirty pool.

Since its creation in 1935, Congress has not solved the two biggest problems of this country – massive unemployment and massive poverty.

Unemployment has hovered at 7 percent in the last 20 years; poverty incidence has remained at 25-26 percent of the population in the last 30 years. In a situation where the population is rapidly rising, these ratios can only mean rapidly rising numbers of unemployed and poor.

So young men and women, do you have a substitute for Molotov cocktails? And please, no hacking.

director general Joel Villanueva.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and resigned Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla are also mentioned, but they may encounter rough sailing. The former, because of her perceived obsequiousness to President Aquino, and Petilla because of the persistent problems relative to supply and price of electricity. *** I have always listed Tolentino as one of the few achievers and performers of the Aquino administration. He finds comfort in the fact that he is seen as a public official who is always in the thick of action, especially during disasters.

He has sought assistance for the victims of disasters even outside of Metro Manila. While floods still persist in the metropolis, Tolentino has succeeded in mitigating them.

Tolentino has in fact improved the solid waste management and garbage disposal system and revived the ferry service along the Pasig river from Pasig to Intramuros.

There is also the continuing Summer Employment Program for students. He recently set up an MMDA Training Institute for traffic management. Above all, he was able to maintain harmonious relations with all the 17 mayors in the National Capital Region, which has resulted in better coordination and more efficient delivery of service.

His impressive educational background includes a doctorate in judicial science from the US, Master of Laws from England, graduate diploma in Public Administration also from the US, Master of National

Security Administration from the National Security Administration from the National Defense College of the Philippines and a law degree from the Ateneo de Manila University. His strong legal experience also involves the American Bar Association and legal organizations in New York and Washington DC. All these are bonuses for Tolentino’s bid for the Senate. *** I have expressed my doubts about Justice Secretary Leila de Lima salivating for the Senate. She may be the most media-exposed member of the Cabinet who speaks on anything under the sun when a television camera is focused on her. Still, I doubt her independence of mind, probity and integrity.

Only recently, De Lima said that the third batch of former and incumbent members of Congress implicated in the P10 billion pork barrel scam allegedly of Janet Lim Napoles is not her priority. It follows—some of them are Liberal Party members close to President Aquino and LP stalwarts. Going after them can endanger her inclusion in the administration Senate slate.

Recall that when the 2010 Luneta hostage crisis was investigated by De Lima, and while she recommended administrative and criminal charges against people close to the President, Malacanang rebuffed her. She did not resign when any self-respecting person would have done otherwise.

Is this the kind of administration candidate we want for the Senate?

biznewsasia@gmail.com

W E D N E S D AY: M AY 6 , 2 0 1 5

OPINION

ADELLE CHUA EDITOR

lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

POPE FRANCIS VS. ‘DIRTY WAR’ RUMORS

By Mac Margolis POPE Francis continues to surprise. He recently slammed wage inequality between men and women as “a pure scandal,” called climate change man’s “slap in the face of nature” and beckoned the homeless to tour the Sistine Chapel.

Then there was his self-effacing quip about his compatriots’ famous egos, saying that many Argentines were surprised he took the name Francis and not “Jesus II.” But the pontiff ’s fellow Argentinians may find his latest strike to be his brassiest yet: He has asked the Vatican to open its archives on the Argentine Dirty War, papal adviser Guillermo Karcher told Radio America this week.

This is a big deal for at least a couple of reasons. First, as many as 30,000 people—no one knows for sure—died or disappeared during one of Latin America’s most infamous dictatorships, which lasted from 1976 to 1983.

Catholics and communists, insurgents and innocents, old men and pregnant women—the junta’s victims were as varied as the methods it employed to dispatch them. And yet, despite a truth and reconciliation process in Argentina, which has sent many torturers to jail, the grisly detail of the guerra sucia remains largely walled by secrecy, and the Church has been complicit in

SEEING... From A9 who should collect it.

New Comelec chief Will the appointment of a new Commission on Elections chairman mean clean and fair voting in 2016? Let us not get our hopes too high until after the conduct of the presidential elections next year.

While the new Comelec chairman, Andres Bautista, is qualified and comes with good credentials as head of the Presidential Commission on Good Government, there’s no telling whether he would carry out reforms or do the bidding of the appointing power.

The Comelec is a constitutional and independent body. Bautista has a chance to leave a legacy of electoral reforms and prove he’s not a Palace lackey. Even before he has assumed his post, Bautista already faces daunting challenges, including the issue of using the automated voting machines.

When the Supreme Court ruled that the negotiated Comelec contract with Smartmatic to refurbish the PCOS machines was illegal, it raised the possibility that voting would revert to manual counting which would require an

#FAILOCRACY

the silence.

The second reason is Francis himself.

When the generals ruled, he was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, a ranking Jesuit priest trying to navigate the dictatorship’s hyper-charged politics. As a ranking member of the Jesuit order Society of Jesus, he presided over a divided clergy, and some militant Catholics accused him of doing the junta’s bidding.

Some Argentines faulted Bergoglio for looking the other way over the scandal of “chicos apropiados,” the children of political prisoners abducted by torturers and then put up for adoption.

Those charges were never substantiated, and the Vatican has flatly denied them, but suspicions resurfaced with the white smoke issuing from Saint Peter’s Basilica on March 13, 2013, when Bergoglio became Francis, and persist to this day.

Leading the j’accuse has been investigative journalist Horacio Verbitsky, who reported that padre Bergoglio neglected to intervene when two young Jesuit priests (whispered to be in league with Marxist guerrillas) were abducted and tortured for several weeks in a military dungeon.

Many prominent Argentines came to Bergoglio’s defense, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Adolfo Perez Esquivel. Shortly before he became pope, the then-archbishop of Buenos Aires issued a public apology on behalf

of the nation’s bishops for “not doing enough” to protect priests targeted by the junta.

And this was no 11th-hour gesture of contrition. Bergoglio had long owned up to the church’s failings during Argentina’s “years of lead.”

“What did the church do back then?

It acted as an organization with saints and sinners,” he told his good friend, Argentine rabbi Abraham Skorka, in one of a series of dialogues later published as “On Heaven and Earth.”

“There were Christians on both sides.

Christians who died in guerrilla warfare and Christians who tried to save people, and Christians who became repressors, on the belief they were saving the country.”

What the church has yet to do is go public with what it knew about those dark days. “A large segment of the Church, not exactly Bergoglio, was complicit in the dictatorship,” Graciela Lois, a member of a group of the dictatorship’s victims’ relatives pressing the church to open its archives, told El Pais this week. “And we hope that opening up the archives will help us know the truth.”

Now the world’s most surprising religious leader has the chance to shed light on one of Latin America’s darkest moments and put the lingering suspicions against him to rest. That’s hardly the maneuver of a man trying to cover his tracks. Bloomberg

act of Congress since automated polling is mandated by law. With time running out and if the issue is not resolved, the prospects of postponing the 2016 elections is becoming a possibility. That would mean having Aquino as a holdover President.

God help this benighted land.

No Pac-May rematch It looks like a rematch between undisputed world welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao would not happen.

Mayweather himself said that after one last fight against a still-unknown opponent in September, he’s ready to retire.

“I’m 38 and I have been fighting in the last 19 years. It’s time for me to hang up the gloves,” said Floyd who’s chasing to match word heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano’s 49-0 ring record. After beating Pacquiao by unanimous decision in their “fight of the century” on May 2 at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Floyd is now only a win away from Rocky’s record.

Mayweather is not only ring smart.

He’s money smart and has a sense of selfpreservation. He knows that stepping into the ring again with a healthy Pacquiao might have a different outcome. Floyd has proven his point: he took on Manny

and beat him no matter the manner of his stick-and-stay-away style of fighting. He won and laughed all the way to the bank, This, he did by building up interest for five years until it became ripe for him to dictate his terms. Taunting Manny while evading him, Floyd played the villain everyone wanted to see get his comeuppance. It was a stroke of marketing genius that hyped the fight into a megabuck attraction.

Why would Mayweather agree to a return bout which was not in their contract?

Besides, Floyd felt the power of Pacquiao’s punches in those rare rounds when Manny was able to land those ponderous left straights. “Money man” Mayweather earned more than $200-million including the pay-per-view receipts which are not in yet. Pacquiao for his loss and sore shoulder made $100-million which BIR Commissioner Kim Henrares is already salivating for, like a pit bull going for a leg.

The sneaky right hook missing in his arsenal later revealed by Manny himself was due to a torn right soldier blade. So much has been said about this injury but even Manny himself does not want to use it as an excuse for his loss. It’s time we all moved on and relegate this episode to the annals of ring history.

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MORE... From A9 these two (when the rebels refused) an ordinary police operation and then go back to calling it a confidence-building measure, now that the secessionists have claimed to have killed the Muslim bomber?

And I must add that the killing of Usman is not seen universally as a boost to the peace talks and the approval of BBL. Those spoilsports from Western Mindanao, the Tausug-dominated Moro National Liberation Front, actually think that Usman’s death will lead to more – not less – strife.

The MNLF, understandably hurt after being left out of the current talks with the Maguindanaoan-led MILF, said the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters could interpret the killing of a terrorist that the currently dominant Moro group has coddled for so long as a sign of treachery and collaboration with the imperialists from Manila.

How, after all, can anyone – even the Moros themselves – trust the MILF when it will give up people who have found a safe haven in its territory for years?

I understand the situation can get complicated, which is why those who want to make sense of what’s going on should pay a bit more attention than they do to memes and slogans generated by the palace propaganda machine.

And when you get right down to it, what should be plain is that the government and the MILF are still in league against the Filipino people (Mindanaoans, in particular) and will stop at nothing to secure the passage of their beloved BBL. I can only hope that the people will not allow themselves to be gypped as their President has been. And that if they refuse to be fooled, their demands for greater truth and transparency will be heard by Congress, which will be forced not to be a party to the Malacanang-MILF conspiracy.

Now both Usman and Marwan are dead. Pity so many had to die to get this done – and that the deaths of two terrorists are now being used to give the MILF what it wants, even if it never did anything to deserve it.

CHONG ARDIVILLA

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WE DN E S DAY : M AY 6 , 2 0 1 5

SPORTS sports@thestandard.com.ph

Footrace to enliven Jockeys’ Day at Metroturf TO bring help JENNY and healing to ORTUOSTE their own, the jockey comT HE HOARSE WHISPERER munity in the Philippines is ready to do anything, even try something new that will raise funds for and awareness about disabled jockeys.

According to New Philippine Jockeys Association president Gilbert L. Francisco, their group has obtained clearance from the Philippine Racing Commission, the sport’s regulating body, to hold a footrace on Jockeys’ Day, May 31, Sunday, at the Metro Manila Turf Club racecourse in Malvar, Batangas.

The footrace will be run in between two regular races, for maximum audience impact.

Here’s how it works: jockeys, like racehorses, will emerge from the starting gate placed at the 1,600-meter mark and run until the finish line, for a distance of roughly 100 meters.

“Stewards” will be on hand to ensure a clean race and announce the winner.

Funds will be raised through sponsorship and “betting”. Sponsors will donate a certain fixed amount for one of the participating jockeys to run the foot race representing their stables by wearing their colors (diviza); they may put up “riding fees” for the participants; or they may donate prizes for the foot race winners.

“Fun bets” (actually donations) may be made by racegoers at a kiosk near the grandstand, with the winners to receive jockey mementos, t-shirts, and other giveaways. Sponsors may also donate prizes-in-kind for the winners of the “fun bets,” such as t-shirts with the logo of their companies or the photos of their horses.

All funds raised from this endeavor will go the the NPJA’s Disabled Jockeys Fund.

The NPJA Jockey Footrace is patterned after such charity events held by jockey communities abroad. Search Youtube for “2014 Saratoga Jockey footrace.”

For more details on how to sponsor a jockey in the footrace, donate prizes, or contribute to the Disabled Jockeys Fund, please visit the NPJA Facebook page. ***** Ramon Ocampo’s Miss Dainty won the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) trial race last April 30 at San Lazaro Leisure Park (SLLP).

Ridden by star jockey Jonathan B. Hernandez, Miss Dainty (First Blush x Dark Desert) came in two lengths ahead of Golden Cup, followed by Erik the Viking, Caravaggio, Divine Degrace, El Nido Island, and Knight’s Queen last.

The total time for the 1,400-meter race was 1:32.8 (13-25-26’-28). The actual race, over the same distance, is on May 16 also at SLLP. This particular PCSO trial race is the first to be held just before regular races are run, enabling racing fans tuned in to the barrier runs to watch the trial. Formerly, trials were held in the mornings, and fans had to rely on replays aired whenever to find out who won the trial.

The PCSO Racing Committee made the decision to switch trial schedules after much deliberation; on one hand, there was concern over preserving a decades-old tradition, and on the other, taking into account the changing times and needs of the sport. ***** If #MayPac was a snoozefest, another sporting event held that same day, the 141st Kentucky Derby, delivered the action and excitement that sports fans crave.

American Pharoah, the favorite, crowned himself king of the iconic race for 3YO, the first race of the US Triple Crown.

A record-breaking number of people 170,513 - crammed into Churchill Downs to witness the son of Pioneer Of The Nile out of Littleprincessemma come from behind to beat 17 others and bag the $1,418,800 purse.

This is the first Kentucky Derby win of owner Zayat Stable.

Firing Line came second, Dortmund third, and Frosted fourth. Total handle was $194.3 million, a 4 percent increase over last year and a record.

The next leg of the US Triple Crown is the May 16 Preakness Stakes in Baltimore.

Meanwhile, the first leg of Philracom Triple Crown kicks off May 17 at SLLP. *** Facebook: Gogirl Racing, Twitter: @gogirlracing, Blog: http://jennyo.net

China firms up hold on lead. Thailand’s Chatchu-on Moksri (9) slams one against the defense of China’s Jiujing Xu (4) and Fang Duang (9) in the 1st Rebisco Asian U23 Women’s Volleyball Championship powered by PLDT Home and Smart Live More Tuesday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City. The Chinese breezed past the Thais, 25-13, 25-10, 25-12, to cement their hold on the top of Pool F. ROMAN PROSPERO

Paeng paces finalists SIX-TIME world champion Paeng Nepomuceno displayed his old form to lead the initial batch of finalists in the 2015 Bowling World Cup national tournament held recently in 13 centers, including Cavite and Baguio.

Nepomuceno did not show signs that he’s only two years short of becoming a senior citizen as he collected a 12-game series of 2749 pinfalls at Paeng’s Midtown center to pull away from his much younger rivals in the event’s first center finals.

Sammy Say Sy produced the second best score of 2677 at SM Fairview, followed by Timothy Hung with 2606 at Superbowl, Enzo Hernandez with 2559 at SM Megamall, Ruel Parma with 2548 at Superbowl; Nicco Olaivar (2488 at SM North EDSA), Alex Ngoi (2411 also at SM North EDSA), Kevin

Custodio (2408 at Paeng’s Midtown) and Merwin Tan (2403 at Q. Plaza).

Among the ladies, unheralded Anne Marie Kiac emerged as the surprise frontrunner by scoring 2174 in 10 games at Coronado Lanes, followed by veteran Abbie Gan with 2116 at Superbowl and former BWC international finals competitor Krizziah Tabora with 1983 at Q. Plaza.

Liza del Rosario, considered the country’s top lady pintoppler who saw action in last year’s BWC international finals in Wroclaw, Poland together with Biboy Rivera, rolled 1843

at SM North Edsa.

Rochelle Munsayac had the best score among the ladies with 1892 at Coronado Lanes.

The men’s and women’s winners of the national BWC will represent the country in the international finals scheduled on November 13-20 in Sam’s Town, Las Vegas, Nevada.

The second qualifying stage is ongoing in 15 centers. The national finals will be held on July 18 (men) and 19 (ladies) at paeng’s Midtown; July 20 (men) and 21 (ladies) at Superbowl; and July 23 (men and ladies) at SM North EDSA. The other early national finalists: Men – Carl Matthew Lim, 2333; Alvin Pastrana, 2333; Benshir Layoso, 2328; Scott Uy, 2260; Ferdie Polillo, 2136; Ruel Bucao, 2118; Ruel Rallos, 2114; Efren Moreno, 2048; Lar-

ry Tinio, 2041; Simple D. Villajin, 2025; Ernie Jacinto, 2001; :ito Fabros, 2157; Emmanuel Bagting, 1987; James Tarrobal, 2284; Emilio Pacheco, 2277; Eric Aranez, 2229; Jorel Simbulan, 2162; Rauk Imperial, 2379; Raf Manalo, 2379; Chico Lubrin, 2145; Dexter Soriano, 1840; Allen Laigo, 2190; Angel Dilig, 2224; Edgar H. Gamboa, 2214; Willy Amado, 1829; and Wilson Sua, 2205.

Ladies – Leah Naorbe, 1687; Arlena Bucao, 1672; Allen Joy Laigo, 1401; Jo Anne Bonifacio, 1710; Myrna Bautista, 1639; Jessica Myles Rivera, 1629; Cita Yumul, 1464; Pure Anselmo, 1769; Lilian Teano, 1668; Therese Dominique Lopez, 1735; April Anne Roxas, 1621; Norma Degawan, 1375; Evelyn Gamboa, 1617; Ofelia Iriberri, 1647; Lovella Catalan, 1647; and Melshared Luzon, 1614.

Carlos, Seno Volcanoes seek rugby finals lead net cast MACIE Carlos and Jan Godfrey Seno head a talent-laden group of Cebuano players chasing top honors and ranking points in the Palawan Pawnshop-Palawan Express Pera Padala regional age group tennis tournament which fires off tomorrow (Thursday) in Laray, Cebu.

Originally set in Mandaue, the six-day Group 2 tournament has been moved to the Consolacion Tennis Club in Laray to accommodate the big field numbering to around 300 entries with still two days left before its start. For details, call Bobby Mangunay, PPS-PEPP Sports Program Development director, at 0915-4046464.

“This kind of turnout only inspires us in providing our youth more tournaments nationwide not only to further whip up our top junior players but also to discover fresh talents,” said Palawan Pawnshop COO Bobby Castro.

Other Cebu bets competing in the tournament presented by Technifibre are Cesar Salimbangon, Kristin Salimbangon, Shyne Villareal, Shedel Gica, Lyra Mae Repollo, Harland Hogan, Vhenz Alforque, Francis Navales, Francis Lambayan, Norman Enriquez and Rey Dante Toledo.

THE Philippine national men’s rugby team guns for a championship berth today when it takes on Singapore in the opener of the Asian Rugby Championship Division 1 at the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bocaue, Bulacan.

The top-ranked Volcanoes, who are bannered by pros from rugby leagues in Japan, the US, Australia and Britain, seek to capitalize on experience and crowd support in the 4 p.m. match against the No. 4 Singaporeans.

Second-ranked Sri Lanka and No. 3 Kazakhstan tangle in the first outing at 2 p.m. with the winner also advancing to the finale set Saturday.

“We’re fairly confident we’ll beat Singapore and be in the finals,” said Matt Cullen, Philippine Rugby Football Union director for rugby.

The Volcanoes last faced the Singaporeans in the 2012 Asian 5 Nation Division 1 meet that Phl hosted at Rizal, beating the visitors, 37-20, en route to eventually winning the tournament.

“Singapore will play a very fast, fit game. They’re a very, very fit team, they can run for 80 minutes, no problem. The advantage we have is that we’re fit but we’re also skillful; Filipinos, like Manny Pacquiao have agility and speed,” said center Justin Coveney, who plays in Japan.

Coveney joins Austin Dacanay, Michael Duhig, Matt Bellenie, David Feeney, Ashley Heward, Terry Carrol, Benjamin Mudie, Steve Howorth, veteran Jake Letts, captain Oliver Saunders, Harry Morris, Timothy Bweheni, Jeff Gregson, Gareth Holgate, Masayuki Sekiguchi, Phil Abraham,

David Robinson-Polkey, Fred Morris, Christopher Anderson, Cleo Gomez, Daniel Matthews and Alex Aronson for this campaign.

“Our players are well-experienced overseas and even though we only had 10 days in camp, we still have our advantage. We always look forward coming back together. We have confidence in our team, we have confidence in one anothe, that we’ll get the job done and put our best foot forward,” said Letts.

The Stu Woodhousecoached Volcanoes are the first national squad to see action at the 20,000-seater PSS and they hope to put up a good show for supporters.

“We’re all very excited to be playing in front of a home crowd and we’re going to leave everything on the field to bring honor to the Philippines,” said Saunders.

we dn e s day : m ay 6 , 2 0 1 5

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sports sports@thestandard.com.ph

NCR rips 2 marks

By Peter Atencio

TAGUM City, Davao del Norte—National Capitol Region’s Sacho Ilustre led the Big City’s record-breaking spree in swimming, where two 17-year-old marks fell yesterday in the 2015 Palarong Pambansa here.

The 17-year-old Ilustre completed the secondary boys’ 200-meter butterfly event in 2:09 in the heats and went on to swim a blistering clocking of 2:07.28 in the finals, which erased the 2:09.58 mark Carlo Piccio established in 1998, for another NCR gold.

“My father encouraged me to go for it. Kapag ginawa ko raw, mas gaganda ang buhay,” said Ilustre, a 10th grader.

Ilustre later added another gold medal in the 400-meter freestyle in 2:17.28.

Another NCR bet, 12-year old Seth Martin Isaac, also reset a 17-year mark, ( Evan Grabador’s

Fil-Am equals Torres’ jump record FILIPINA-POLISH standout Marisa Kwiatkowski has equaled Philippine long jump queen Marestella Torres’ national record recently.

Kwiatkowski, a Stanford University freshman, cleared her personal record distances in the long and triple jumps at the Longhorn Invitational on Saturday.

The 18-year-old Kwiatkowski first cleared 12.67 meters in the triple jump at spot, considered a Philippine junior record, according to pinoyathletics.info.

But a gusty winds spoiled it all.

Torres holds the national women’s record at 12.67, which she established in 2003, while Felyn Dolloso is the current junior holder at 12.55 meters, which she set in 2012.

She also had a personal best of 5.89 meters to finish 10th in the long jump.

Kwiatkowski is not yet a member of the national team and is currently targeting Elma Muros-Posadas’s national junior mark in long jump as well. Peter Atencio

1:07.56) by leading the heats in 1:07.56. However, he had a slower time in the finals at 1:07.01.

Isaac also towed NCR to a fast clocking of 2:05.04 in the 4x50 meter medley relays with teammates Charles Arceo, Ian Timothy Go and Sean Cruz.

In the field event, Daniella Daynata heaved 32.07 meters in the secondary girls’ discus throw for the gold, with Kayla Bugatti of CAR finishing second with 30.7 meters and NCR’s Precious Arnenda at third with 30.40m.

Region VI’s Matt Atanas earned his second gold medal after ruling the elementary boys’

high jump, while Jamela de Asis topped the elementary girls’ shot put action.

Bicol Region’s Jason Jabol also earned his second gold medal after clearing 5.61 meters in elementary boys’ long jump, followed by NCR’s Kharl Berjuela, who leaped to 5.54 meters.

Jabol earlier won his first gold in the triple with 11.8 meters, followed by Al-Nhaquiev Sappari of Region 12 at second with 11.66 meters.

In arnis, Christian Reyes ruled the secondary boys’ individual anyo event with 65.25 points, while Danilo Pastoral of Region 1 claimed the individual double weapons honors.

Host Davao Region won over Bicol, 71-68, in the secondary boys basketball action, while NCR prevailed over Eastern Visayas, 71-40, to move ahead at 2-0, in the high school girls side.

In secondary boys baseball, NCR turned back Central Visayas, 7-3, to post its second straight win.

Aces strike. A masked Jvee Casio of Alaska (right) loses his balance and the

ball in the process as Brian Heruela of Blackwater rushes to him to gain possession in a Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup game won by the Aces, 106-80, at the Araneta Coliseum Tuesday night. Story on A16

INVITATION TO BID FOR ThE Supply AND DElIVERy OF ONE (1) lOT FOOD AND BEVERAgE REquIREmENTS OF VARIOuS IN-hOuSE pROgRAmS FOR A pERIOD OF ONE (1) yEAR uNDER ITB NO. 05-01-2015 The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is inviting all interested bidders in its forthcoming public bidding for the Supply and Delivery of Food and Beverage Requirement of Various In-House Programs for a period of One (1) Year under ITB No.05-01-2015.

Brief Description

Catering Services for the Supply and Delivery of One (1) Lot Food and Beverage Requirement of Various In-House Programs for a period of One (1) Year QUANTITY. 26,463 heads

24,117 heads

28,344 heads

Delivery Schedule Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC): Source of Funds:

Food and Beverage Requirements for a Period of One (1) Year Breakfast Plain or Fried Rice Meat, Fish or Chicken Egg or Salted Egg Juice or Hot Chocolate with free flowing coffee Lunch Plain Rice Meat, Fish or Chicken Vegetable Soup Dessert (pastry/bread or fresh fruits) Soda in can or Juice PM Snack Sandwiches or delicacies Pasta or noodles Soda in can or Juice with free flowing coffee

INVITATION TO RE-BID FOR VARIOUS OFFICE SUPPLIES 1.

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), through the PCSO Corporate Budget intends to apply the sum of Nine Hundred Fifty Six Thousand Four Hundred Eighty Three Pesos and 86/100 (P956,483.86) being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments under the contract for Various Office Supplies (Re-Bidding). Bids received in excess of the ABC shall be automatically rejected at bid opening.

2.

The PCSO now invites bids for Various Office Supplies (Re-Bidding). Delivery of the Goods is required within fifteen (15) calendar days. Bidders should have completed, within the last ten (10) years from the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the Project. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II. Instructions to Bidders.

3.

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

Please refer to Section VI (Schedule of Requirements) of the Bidding Documents for the project regarding the complete details of the schedule of delivery The total ABC is Seven Million Seven Hundred Twenty-Eight Thousand One Hundred Twenty-Five Pesos (PhP7,728,125.00), VAT-exclusive, Zero-rated transaction.

Internally Funded

Bidders should have completed, within the last three (3) years before the date of submission and receipt of bids, a contract similar to the Project. The description of an eligible bidder is contained in the Bidding Documents, particularly, in Section II. Instructions to Bidders. Bidding will be conducted through open competitive bidding procedures using a non-discretionary “pass/fail” criterion as specified in the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) 9184, otherwise known as the “Government Procurement Reform Act”.

Re-Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183 and subject to Commonwealth Act 138.

4.

A complete set of Bidding Documents may be purchased by interested Bidders on May 6, 2015 (Wednesday) from the address below and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee for the Bidding Documents in the amount of One Thousand Pesos (P1,000.00).

Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183 and subject to Commonwealth Act 138.

All particulars relative to Pre-Bid Conference, Detailed Evaluation of Bids, Post-Qualification and Award of Contract shall be governed by the pertinent provisions of R.A. 9184 and its IRR.

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

The schedule of activities is listed, as follows: Activities 1. Issuance of the Bidding Documents 2. Pre-Bid Conference 3. Deadline for the Submission and Receipt of Bids 4. Opening and Preliminary Examination of Bids

Schedule May 6, 2015 to May 25, 2015 May 12, 2015, 2:00 p.m.

5.

The PCSO will hold a Pre-Bid Conference on May 12, 2015 (Tuesday) at 1:30pm, BAC Room, 3/F Conservatory Building, 605 Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City, which shall be open to all interested parties.

6.

Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before 10:00am of May 25, 2015 (Monday). All Bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18.

May 25, 2015; 10:00 a.m.

May 25, 2015; 10:00 a.m. onwards

Complete details of the project are indicated in the bidding documents which will be available to prospective bidders at the Bids and Awards Services Department (BASD), upon payment of the nonrefundable bidding fee in the amount of Ten Thousand Pesos (PhP 10,000.00).

Prospective bidders may also download the Bidding Documents free of charge from the following websites: www.pagcor.ph and www.philgeps.gov.ph and may be allowed to submit bids provided that bidders shall pay the non-refundable bidding fee not later than the date of the submission of bids. The Pre-bid Conference is open to all prospective bidders. Prospective bidders should present to PAGCOR’s Cashier located at the Sixth (6th) Floor, PAGCOR Corporate Office, Hyatt Hotel and Casino Manila, M.H. del Pilar Street corner Pedro Gil Street, Malate, Manila either the Bidding Fee Slip which may be secured from the BASD or a copy of this ITB in effecting payment for the Bidding Documents. All bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18.

Bid opening shall be on May 25, 2015 (Monday) at 10:30am at BAC Room, 3/F Conservatory Building, 605 Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City. Bids will be opened in the presence of the Bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the address below. Late bids shall not be accepted.

7.

The PCSO reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, to annul the bidding process, and to reject all bids at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

8.

For further information, please refer to:

PAGCOR assumes no responsibility whatsoever to compensate or indemnify bidders for any expenses incurred in the preparation of their bids.

In accordance with Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB) Circular 06-2005 - Tie-Breaking Method, the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) 4 shall use a non-discretionary and non-discriminatory measure based on sheer luck or chance, which is “DRAW LOTS,” in the event that two or more bidders have been post-qualified and determined as the bidder having the Lowest Calculated Responsive Bid (LCRB) to determine the final LCRB, based on the following procedures: 1.

2.

In alphabetical order, the bidders shall pick one rolled paper.

The lucky bidder who would pick the paper with a “CONGRATULATIONS” remark shall be declared as the final bidder having the LCRB and recommended for award of the contract.

PAGCOR reserves the right to accept or reject any Bid, and to annul the bidding process and reject all Bids at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

Interested bidders may obtain further information from PCSO Bids and Awards Committee and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below from 8:00am to 5:00pm.

The BAC Chairman c/o The Secretariat PCSO BAC Room 3/F Conservatory Building 605 Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City (02) 997-0247 (Telefax) www.pcso.gov.ph

Please address all communications to the Bids and Awards Committee thru the BASD, Room 203, Second (2nd) Floor, PAGCOR House, 1330 Roxas Boulevard, Ermita, Manila, Tel No.: 524-3911, 521-1542 local 571.

(Sgd.) CONRADO C. ZABELLA BAC Chairman

(Sgd.) RODERICK R. CONSOLACION Chairperson Bids and awards Committee (BaC) 4 (TS-MAY 6, 2015)

( T S - M AY 6 , 2 0 15 )

Republic of the Philippines

ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION

Simplified Single Line Diagram of the Proposed Connection Scheme No.2

San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City

IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE NEGROS-PANAY 230 kV BACKBONE PROJECTSTAGE 2 (CEBU SUBSTATION 230 kV UPGRADING), WITH PRAYER FOR THE ISSUANCE OF A PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY ERC CASE NO. 2015-049 RC NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES (NGCP), Applicant. x- - - - -- - -- - - ----- - - - - - -x

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES: Notice is hereby given that on March 12, 2015, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) filed with the Commission an application for the approval of the CebuNegros-Panay 230 kV Backbone Project - Stage 2 (Cebu Substation 230 kV Upgrading), with prayer for the issuance of a provisional authority.

In the said application, NGCP alleged, among others, the following: 1.

It is a corporation created and existing under the laws of the Philippines, with principal office address at NGCP Building, Quezon Avenue corner BIR Road, Diliman, Quezon City. It is the corporate vehicle of the consortium which was awarded the concession to assume the power transmission functions of the National Transmission Corporation (TRANSCO) pursuant to Republic Act No. 9136 (R.A. 9136), otherwise known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 or the EPIRA. It was also awarded by Congress a franchise under R.A. 9511 (NGCP Franchise) to operate, manage, and maintain the nationwide transmission system of the Republic of the Philippines; STATEMENT OF THE CASE

2.

One of its functions and responsibilities enumerated in Section 9 of the EPIRA is to “improve and expand its transmission facilities, consistent with the Grid Code and the Transmission Development Plan (TDP) to be promulgated pursuant to this Act to adequately serve generation companies, distribution utilities suppliers requiring transmission service and/or ancillary services through the transmission system: Provided, That TRANSCO (now NGCP) shall submit any plan for expansion or improvement of its facilities for approval by the ERC.”;

3.

In accordance with its mandate to ensure and maintain the quality, reliability, adequacy, security, stability and integrity of the Grid, it seeks authority from the Commission to immediately approve the implementation of the Cebu Negros-Panay (CNP) 230 kV Backbone Project - Stage 2 (Cebu Substation 230 kV Upgrading), which aims, among others, to meet the transmission capacity requirements of capacity additions and load centers; STATEMENT OF FACTS

Brief Background 4.

To augment the power generating capacity in Visayas, Thermal Visayas, Inc. (TVI), a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power Corporation, will be constructing a 2x150 MW Coalfired Power Plant which will be located at Sitio Looc, Barangay Bato, Toledo City, Cebu Province. It is expected to be in commercial operation by 2017;

5.

Two (2) possible schemes were considered for the connection of the proposed power plant to the Cebu Grid: Connection Scheme 1: Connection to Calung-Calung Substation via 138 kV Line

6.

11. The proposed connection scheme will provide higher transmission capacity to accommodate future generation capacity addition of the power plant;

Based on the result of the system assessment, Connection Scheme No. 2 is the more optimal option for the connection of the 2x150 MW TVI power plant;

12. In addition, the central part of the Cebu Grid consists of seven (7) major substations interconnected through 138 kV transmission lines. The proposed connection scheme will serve as a major component of the 230 kV backbone system, a long-term transmission plan in the Visayas Grid intended to alleviate the existing 138 kV system;

The recommended connection scheme will requtre the following components:

The Bato Switching Station and the 230 kV transmission lines were classified as Connection Assets. Hence, it will be implemented by TVI pursuant to the December 15, 2014 Decision of the Commission in ERC Case No. 2014-088 MC. On the other hand, the proposed 230 kV facility in Cebu Substation will be constructed to accommodate the entry of the power plant since NGCP’s existing facilities in Cebu are rated only at 138 kV. The upgraded substation will also cater to the 230 kV termination of Cebu - Lapu-Lapu Transmission Line (initially energized at 138 kV). Hence, the proposed Cebu 230 kV Substation will be considered as a transmission asset upon the energization of the Cebu-Lapu Lapu Transmission Line at 230 kV;

8.

The proposed 230 kV facility in Cebu will be constructed within the vicinity of the existing Cebu Substation and will also be linked to the existing 138 kV system.

Moreover, the main switchgear station, as well as portion of the associated transmission lines, will be located adjacent to the existing high-voltage equipment in the substation. As such, the implementation of the proposed 230 kV facility, as well as its operation, will be directly associated with the existing facility.

In consideration of the security and reliability of the existing transmission system in Cebu Substation, the proposed 230 kV facility shall be implemented by NGCP;

Justifications 9.

Table No. 1 Summary of Loadings of Monitored Transmission Component for Connection Scheme No. 2 Year 2017, Peak Demand Condition Capacity, % MVA Loading/Component Monitored Component per Component Outage At During NComponent Normal 1 Condition Condition Colon - Cebu 138 kV 392 41.26 60.01 Colon - Cebu 138 kV Line Lines Colon – Lapu lapu 138 kV 196 45.42 64.65 Colon - Cebu 138 kV Line Line Quiot - Cebu 138 kV Line 196 46.65 72.8 Colon - Cebu 138 kV Line Colon - Quiot 138 kV Line 196 67.06 93.32 Colon - Cebu 138 kV Line Colon - Toledo 138 kV Line 196 46.03 61.95 Calungcalung-Colon 138 kV Line Calungcalung-Toledo 138 196 9.94 41.03 Colon - Toledo 138 kV kV Line Line Calungcalung-Colon 138 196 31.56 54.29 Colon - Toledo 138 kV kV Line Line Bato - Cebu 230 kV Line 1,276 11.81 23.65 Bato - Cebu 230 kV Line Cebu S/S 2x300 MVA 300 49.3 99.7 300 MVA Transformer at Transformers Cebu Table No. 2 Summary of Loadings of Monitored Transmission Component for Connection Scheme No. 2 Year 2019, Peak Demand Condition Capacity, % MVA Loading/Component Monitored Component per Component Outage At During N-1 Component Normal Condition Condition Colon - Cebu 138 kV 392 34.53 50.18 Colon - Cebu 138 kV Line Lines Colon - Lapu lapu 138 kV 196 38.83 54.87 Colon-Cebu 138 kV Line Colon - Cebu 138 kV Line 196 36.21 57.97 Colon-Cebu 138 kV Line Colon - Quiot 138 kV Line 196 58.67 80.56 Colon-Cebu 138 kV Line Colon - Toledo 138 kV Line 196 44.01 58.95 Calungcalung-Colon 138 kV Line Calungcalung-Toledo 138 196 7.78 41.05 Colon - Toledo 138 kV kV Line Line Calungcalung - Colon 138 196 29.47 51.30 Colon - Toledo 138 kV Line Bato - Cebu 230 kV Line 1,276 11.7 23.46 Bato - Cebu 230 kV Line Cebu S/S 2x300 MVA 300 49.7 100 300 MVA Transformer Transformers at Cebu

Connection Scheme 2: Connection to Cebu Substation via 230 kV Line

i. Switching Station in Bato; ii. 230 kV transmission lines from the proposed Switching Station towards Cebu Substation; and iii. 230 kV Expansion of the Cebu Substation; 7.

10. For the proposed connection scheme, TVI Power Plant can dispatch its maximum generation of 300 MW without overloading the associated transmission lines during normal and N-1 conditions. The loadings of the monitored transmission component associated with the proposed connection scheme are tabulated as follows:

The TVI Power Plant is proposed to be connected to Cebu Substation via 230 kV overhead lines. The connection scheme will involve the 230 kV upgrading at the Cebu Substation and construction of a 230 kV switching station near the power plant and double circuit overhead transmission lines. The overhead line will utilize a 4x795 MCM ACSR conductor and will have a transfer capacity of 1,200 MW (with N-1 contingency);

13. Finally, the proposed connection scheme will provide termination for the Cebu Lapu-Lapu Transmission Line upon its energization at 230 kV; Components of the Project 14. The implementation Substation;

of the project

involves

the expansion works at Cebu

15. The project component are as follows: Cebu Substation Upgrading

Cebu 230 kV GIS

• • • • • •

• • Extension of the Bato - Cebu 230 kV • Lines Extension of the Cebu - Lapu-Lapu • 230 kV Lines • Extension of the Colon/Quiot Cebu 138 kV Lines

• •

2 x 300 MVA, 230/138-13.8 kV Transformer 8 x 230 kV Gas-Insulated Switchgear 1 x 138 kV Air-Insulated Switchgear 2 sets of 230 kV Bus Disconnect Switch Station Service Transformers and Metal-Clad Switchgears Installation of associated protection, control and communication system Revamping works at the 138 kV switchyards Construction of associated buildings/facilities 230 kV Overhead Line, SP-DC, 4x795 MCM ACSR, 750 m 230 kV Underground Cables, Double Circuit of 600 MW-capacity, 425 m 230 kV Overhead Line (conductors and line accessories) , 2 x 795 MCM ACSR, 150 m 138 kV Underground Cables, Double Circuit of 180 MW-Capacity, 250 m 138 kV Underground Cables, Single Circuit of 180 MW-Capacity, 100 m

W E D N E S D AY : M AY 6 , 2 0 1 5

A15

SPORTS sports@thestandard.com.ph

Injury may sideline Pacquiao for a year

By Ronnie Nathanielsz

EIGHT-DIVISION world champion Manny Pacquiao will undergo surgery to repair what was described as “a significant tear” in his rotator cuff later this week in Los Angeles.

The extent of the injury was divulged by Dr. Neal ElAttrache of the Kerlan Jobe Orthopedic Clinic, who examined Pacquiao yesterday.

ABS-CBN’s Dyan Castillejo told the Standard/boxingmirror. com that Dr. ElAttrache confirmed, Pacquiao will be out of action for anywhere between nine months to one year, provided the operation and the post-surgery rehabilitation go well.

Meanwhile, Nevada State Athlet-

ic Commission Chairman Francisco Aguilar blamed Team Pacquiao for not disclosing his injury sooner, adding the Filipino ring icon could be fined or suspended for not telling the commission of his injury.

Longtime Pacquiao adviser Michael Koncz said Pacquiao was doing fine and was told by the doctor that the best method was for him to undergo surgery.

Koncz said Pacquiao was denied permission by the Nevada State

Commission to use a pain killer that was approved by the US Anti Doping Agency, when a request was made on the day of the fight.

Pacquiao, who caught Floyd Mayweather Jr. with a vicious left straight and followed it up with a flurry of punches during their May 2 megafight at the MGM Grand, apparently aggravated the tear in the rotator cuff and could hardly use his right in the succeeding rounds and lost on the scorecards of all three judges, although there were serious questions about the 118-110 score turned in by judge Dave Moretti.

Nevada State Athletic Commission officials refused Pacquiao’s request to take an anti-inflammatory shot in his shoulder in his dressing room.

At the post-fight news confer-

16. The existing Cebu Substation has six (6) 138 kV switch bays which accommodates eleven (11) air-insulated switchgears and six (6) compact air-insulated switchgears.

It has two (2) 100 MVA, 138/69-13.8 kV power transformers; 17. A new 230 kV facility will be constructed within the vicinity of the Cebu Substation.

It be linked to the existing 138 kV switchbays via two (2) 300 MVA 230/138-13.8 kV power transformers. It will be composed of eight (8) 230 kV GIS’s that will accommodate the following: a) Connection of two (2) 230/138 kV power transformers; b) Termination of double circuit transmission lines from the Bato Switching Station; c) Termination of the Cebu - Lapu-Lapu Transmission Line; and d) Future connection of additional 300 MVA, 230/138-13.8 kV power transformer; In order to accommodate the termination of the secondary side of the new transformers, there is a need to transfer the termination of the existing transmission line from Quiot Substation and the existing and ongoing transmission lines from Colon Substation; Conceptual Design for the Associated Transmission Lines 18. It will involve the construction of short transmission lines which will link the BatoCebu 230 kV Line and the Cebu Lapu-Lapu Transmission Line to the proposed GIS Building. Due to limited area at the substation, the proposed line extension of the Bato-Cebu and Cebu Lapu-Lapu Transmission Lines were initially planned to be installed utilizing same structures. However, due to insufficient area within the substation to allow the laying of structural foundation for the multi-circuit lines, the proposed transmission links will be constructed separately; 19. The proposed line extension of the Bato - Cebu 230 kV Lines will be composed generally of an overhead line, which will be routed near the perimeter of the substation in order to avoid overhead line crossing between the existing lines. On the other hand, the proposed line extension for the Cebu - Lapu-Lapu Transmission Line will be composed of an underground cable system designed at 230 kV which will be routed along the roadway within the substation; 20. The project will also involve a 138 kV underground cable system which will accommodate the transfer of termination of the existing Colon/Quiot- Cebu 138 kV Lines; Provision for the Energization of the Cebu - Lapu-Lapu Transmission Line at 138 kV 21. The construction of the new substation will also facilitate the energization of the Cebu - Lapu-Lapu Transmission Line at 138 kV and its proposed connection to the existing Colon - Cebu 138 kV Line 1. As such, a portion of the proposed 230 kV GIS will be initially energized at 138 kV and shall be isolated from the 230 kV-energized portion through the installation of additional two (2) 230 kV bus disconnect switches. The 138 kV-energized portion of the GIS will serve as the connection point between the Cebu - Lapu-Lapu Transmission Line and the existing Colon - Cebu 138 kV Line 1, which will be temporarily connected to the 230 kV switchgear intended for the future 3rd transformer.

ence, Pacquiao accepted the injury as “part of the game,” and added that he didn’t wish “to make alibis or complain or anything [but] it’s hard to fight one-handed.”

His thought of postponing the fight was scrapped after Pacquiao responded to treatment.

Aguilar contradicted a claim of Arum that the Commission had been informed about the shoulder injury shortly after it happened and that Top Rank had filed a request that the World Boxing Organization welterweight champion be allowed to take an anti-inflammatory shot because he had similar treatment during training.

However, Aguilar claimed the commission was not told of Pacquiao’s injury until 6:30 p.m. on fight night.

6/49 00-00-00-00-00-00 6/42 00-00-00-00-00-00 6 DIGITS 0-0-0-0-0-0 3 DIGITS 0-0-0 2 EZ2 0-0

P0.0 M+ P0.0 M+

The medications he was taking were disclosed on his medical questionnaire, but not the actual injury, even as he pointed out. Aguilar claimed that Pacquiao didn’t check the box which inquired whether the fighter had a shoulder injury and warned that Pacquiao could be fined or suspended by the commission for not answering the question on the form before the weigh-in on Friday.

Pacquiao himself said he thought he won the fight, which was the consensus of the Solar Entertainment panel of Quinito Henson, boxing analyst Mike Ochosa and veteran broadcast-journalist Ronnie Nathanielsz in their unprecedented multi-network telecast over ABS-CBN, TV 5 and GMA 7.

Allegation in Support of the Prayer for Provisional Approval

Conceptual Design for the Substation Proposed 230 kV Gas-Insulated Switchgear (GIS) at Cebu Substation

LOTTO RESULTS

24. The proposed 230 kV facility in Cebu Substation is an integral component of the recommended scheme for the connection of the TVI Power Plant to the Grid which is expected to start its commercial operation in 2017. Without the project, the 230 kV Transmission Lines from the proposed Switching Station in Bato towards Cebu Substation will be inoperable and TVI will not be able to dispatch its capacity to the Grid; 25. The connection of the TVI Power Plant to the transmission system will vastly improve the adequacy and reliability of the power system in Visayas. Considering the necessity of the Project and the length of time necessary for its completion, its implementation must commence as scheduled. Thus, it prays for the issuance of a provisional authority; 26. A copy of the Judicial Affidavit of Engr. Christian B. Ereño, Head of the Visayas System Planning Division Transmission Planning Department of NGCP, is hereto attached to the application as Annex “B”; and 27. It prays that the Commission: a.

lssue, immediately upon filing of the application, a provisional authority for the implementation of the CNP 230 kV Backbone Project-Stage 2 (Cebu Substation 230 kV Upgrading); and

b.

Approve, after notice and hearing, the application for the implementation of the CNP 230 kV Backbone Project Stage 2 (Cebu Substation 230 kV Upgrading); and render judgment making the provisional approval permanent.

The Commission has set the application for jurisdictional hearing, expository presentation, pre-trial conference and evidentiary hearing on June 2, 2015 (Tuesday) at ten o’clock in the morning (10:00 A.M.) at the ERC Hearing Room, 15th Floor, Pacific Center Building, San Miguel Avenue, Pasig City.

All persons who have an interest in the subject matter of the proceeding may become a party by filing, at least five (5) days prior to the initial hearing and subject to the requirements in the ERC’s Rules of Practice and Procedure, a verified petition with the Commission giving the docket number and title of the proceeding and stating: (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 proceeding may file their opposition to the application or comment thereon at any stage of the proceeding before the applicant concludes the presentation of its evidence. No particular form of opposition or comment is required, but the document, letter or writing should contain the name and address of such person and a concise statement of the opposition or comment and the grounds relied upon.

All such persons who may wish to have a copy of the application may request the applicant, prior to the date of the initial hearing, that they be furnished with a copy of the application. The applicant is hereby directed to furnish all those making such request with copies of the application and its attachments, subject to reimbursement of reasonable photocopying costs. Likewise, any such person may examine the application and other pertinent records filed with the Commission during the usual office hours.

WITNESS, the Honorable Chairperson, ZENAIDA G. CRUZ DUCUT, and the Honorable Commissioners, GLORIA VICTORIA C. YAP-TARUC, ALFREDO J. NON, JOSEFINA PATRICIA A. MAGPALE-ASIRIT, and GERONIMO D. STA. ANA, Energy Regulatory Commission, this 20th day of April, 2015 at Pasig City.

The temporary connection scheme will involve the installation of a 138 kV underground cable which will be routed along the proposed cable trench for the Cebu - Lapu-Lapu 230 kV Transmission Line; 22. The estimated cost of the Project is One Billion Six Hundred Thirty Six Million One Hundred Forty Eight Thousand Two Hundred Twelve and 02/100 Pesos (PHP1,636,148,212.02); 23. The duration of the implementation of the project is twenty eight (28) months including the topographic and geological survey, preparation of bidding documents, procurement stage and actual construction;

ATTY. FRANCIS SATURNINO C. JUAN Executive Director III

(ST-M AY 6 & 13 , 2015)

A16

W E D N E S D AY : M AY 6 , 2 0 1 5

RIERA U. MALL ARI EDITOR

REUEL VIDAL A S S I S TA N T E D I T O R

sports@thestandard.com.ph

SPORTS Bulls, Clippers st draw 1 blood

Jimmy Butler (right) of the Chicago Bulls drives against Iman Shumpert of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second half during Game 1 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals of the 2015 NBA Playoffs 2015 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. The Bulls defeated the Cavaliers, 99-92. AFP

CLEVELAND—Derrick Rose scored 25 points, Pau Gasol added 21 points and 10 rebounds and the Chicago Bulls eased past LeBron James’ Cleveland Cavaliers with a 99-92 win.

The Bulls blew a 16-point lead in the first half, but then used a 15-0 surge in the third quarter to take a comfortable lead.

Cleveland charged back and trimmed the deficit to two in the fourth quarter with 5:21 remaining on the clock. Butler, though, split a pair of free throws and drained a three-pointer before Gasol’s jumper gave the Bulls a 94-86 lead with 3:26 to go.

The Cavs never got closer than four the rest of the game. Butler scored seven of Chicago’s last 11 points.

“You can never let your guard down,” Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said. “They can score points in a hurry.”

Game two is Wednesday in Cleveland.

In the Western Conference, the Los Angeles Clippers rose to the challenge of playing without Chris Paul as they wasted no time wrestling away home-court advantage from Houston with a 117101 win on Monday.

Paul, who injured his hamstring in game seven against the San Antonio Spurs Saturday, watched from the sidelines as his teammates prevailed in game one of the best-of-seven Western Conference semi-finals.

“We don’t mention injuries, we don’t talk about them, we just tell our guys to keep executing and play and our guys did that,” said Clippers coach Doc Rivers. “They knew that without Chris it would be different in the way they play, but they accepted that.”

Blake Griffin recorded his third triple-double of the playoffs with a monster performance of 26 points, 14 rebounds and 13 assists as a half dozen Clippers reached double figures in the win.

Jamal Crawford chipped in with 21 points off the bench, Matt Barnes added 20 and J.J. Redick scored all 17 of his points in a second half completely controlled by Los Angeles.

Playing without Paul Austin Rivers, who started in place of Paul, tallied 17 points for the Clippers, who can take a 2-0 series lead when the teams square off again Wednesday.

Paul gamely fought through a hamstring strain in game seven against the Spurs on Saturday and banked in the game-winning runner to cap an epic series and send the Clippers into the second round. AFP

Aces bludgeon Elite in opener

By Jeric Lopez NEW conferGames Wednesday ence, renewed (Mall of Asia Arena) confidence.

4:15 p.m. - Barako Bull vs. NLEX 7 p.m. - Kia vs. San Miguel Alaska got its bearings back as it showed everyone it is looking to be a contender again, demolishing Blackwater with ease, 106-80, to open its campaign with a bang in the opener of the 2015 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup at the Smart Araneta Coliseum yesterday.

Reinforcement Romeo Travis, a former teammate of NBA superstar LeBron James in High School for St. Mary-St. Vincent, made a good account of himself in his debut with a team-high 18 points and 12 rebounds. He didn’t need to do a lot more, as his teammates provided tons of support.

Point guards Jvee Casio, who shot a perfect 4-of-4 from the floor, and Chris Banchero each added 13 markers for the Aces, who were in cruise command from start to finish.

It’s now a 1-0 start for Alaska, which had a relatively sluggish start last conference before managing to make the quarterfinals. On the other hand, Blackwater once again started at 0-1 for the third straight conference.

Using a 15-4 blitz zipping the first two periods, Alaska was able to open up its first doubledigit lead of 12 points, 31-19, early in the second frame to grasp control right away.

Several minutes later, the Aces, who shot an incredible 53 percent clip for the game, kept pounding and held two 17-point leads late in the first half before handling a huge 55-41 spread at intermission.

WEDNESDAY: MAY 6, 2015

RAY S. EÑANO EDITOR

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ ASSISTANT EDITOR

business@thestandardtoday.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

PSE C OMPOSITE

BUSINESS

INDEX

Closing May 5, 2015

8500 8000 7500 7000 6500 6000

B1

7,919.21 102.77

PESO-DOLLAR RATE

Closing MAY 5, 2015 46

P44.585

45

CLOSE

44 43 42

HIGH P44.580 LOW P44.670 AVERAGE P44.626 VOLUME 699.500M

P500.00-P650.00 LPG/11-kg tank P38.95-P44.55 Unleaded Gasoline P27.70-P31.00 Diesel

O

IL PRICES TODAY

P32.40-P40.40 Kerosene P23.70-P24.40 Auto LPG Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Tuesday, May 5, 2015

F O R E I G N E X C H A N G E R AT E Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

44.6530

Japan

Yen

0.008324

0.3717

UK

Pound

1.512500

67.5377

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128982

5.7594

Switzerland

Franc

1.071123

47.8289

Canada

Dollar

0.827061

36.9308

Singapore

Dollar

0.750920

Australia

Dollar

0.784191

35.0165

Bahrain

Dinar

2.652238

118.4304

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266667

33.5308

11.9075

Brunei

Dollar

0.748111

33.4054

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000077

0.0034

Thailand

Baht

0.030358

1.3556

UAE

Dirham

0.272257

12.1571

Euro

Euro

1.114800

49.7792

Korea

Won

0.000924

0.0413

China

Yuan

0.161057

7.1917

India

Rupee

0.015739

0.7028

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.280899

12.5430

New Zealand

Dollar

0.753125

Taiwan

Dollar

0.032560

33.6293 1.4539 Source: PDS Bridge

Accenture’s award. Accenture in the Philippines won its second outstanding community project award from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority for its corporate citizenship program called ‘Skills to Succeed.’ which helps address the need for skills that open doors to employment and economic opportunities. President Aquino (right) handed over the plaque to Accenture country managing director Manolito Tayag (second from right). With them are Peza director-general Lilia De Lima (second from left) and Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo during the 20th anniversary celebration and investors’ recognition night of Peza at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Inflation falls to 20-month low INFLATION rate eased to a 20-month low in April, on stable food, fuel and electricity prices, the Philippine Statistics Authority said Tuesday.

Data showed inflation rate decelerated to 2.2 percent in April from 2.4 percent in March and 4.1 percent in April 2014. It was also the slowest movement

in consumer prices since August 2013, when it settled at 2.1 percent.

“Low and stable inflation in January to April 2015, which

averaged at 2.3 percent, bodes well for consumption growth. It is also within the Development Budget Coordination Committee’s inflation target range of 2 to 4 percent,” National Economic and Development Authority deputy director-general Emmanuel Esguerra said.

Core inflation, which excludes selected food and energy items,

also softened to 2.5 percent in April from 2.7 percent in March and 2.9 percent a year ago. Core inflation in the first four months of 2015 averaged at 2.5 percent.

The PSA said food inflation eased to 4 percent, on slower price adjustments in rice, meat and fruits. Non-food inflation also slackened in April, following continued rollbacks in electricity,

PLDT bares revamp as revenues stagnate

By Darwin G. Amojelar PHILIPPINE Long Distance Telephone Co. on Tuesday announced changes in senior positions, after core profit fell 5 percent and revenues stagnated in the first quarter.

The country’s largest telecom company said core profit, which excludes foreign exchange transactions and other non-recurring items, dropped 5 percent in the first quarter to P9.3 billion from P9.8 billion a year ago.

Net profit was nearly flat at P9.39 billion in the January-to-March period, as revenue stagnated at P42.6 billion. Service revenue dipped 2 percent to P40.5 billion in the quarter, following the drop in short messaging service and voice revenues.

PLDT chairman Manuel Pangilinan cited the need to reorganize the leadership team

B3

and announced the appointment of Winston Damarillo as the new chief strategy officer and Joachim Horn as chief technology and integration advisor.

Meanwhile, Charles Lim was tasked to establish and head the wireless strategic investments and acquisition group. Isaias Fermin will assume leadership of the entire consumer business and Orlando Vea will lead the group’s digital offensive.

“It’s very clear that we cannot think and behave like a telco of the past. I think we have started to realize that we have to get people who have the experience, exposure and the skill sets that could bring us there,” said Pangilinan.

PLDT said wireless service revenues slid 4 percent to P27.9 billion in the first quarter from P29 billion last year. Total cellular sub-

Semirara sees P10-b net profit this year

B4

scriber base stood at 69.6 million, of which Smart had 25.9 million; Talk ‘N Text, 28.1 million and Sun Cellular with 15.7 million.

Data revenues rose 11 percent to P11.2 billion, as broadband subscriber base reached over 4.5 million.

“While our core revenue sources undergo this transition phase where the erosion of our high-margin legacy businesses still outpaces the growth of our newer initiatives for now, we are taking significant steps to ensure that we are ready and prepared for the digital future,” Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan said the company needed to invest in infrastructure that would provide the “digital spine” for its network.

PLDT earlier invested $445 million in Rocket Internet, which owns e-commerce platforms Zalora and Lazada.

Free trade with Canada eyed

B6

gas and other fuels.

Rollback in domestic petroleum prices continued following the sharp decline in international oil prices since the last quarter of 2014, according to Neda.

Esguerra said the stable pesodollar exchange rate would help manage inflation rate in the coming months. “The peso is expected to remain relatively stable given the country’s strong external position owing to strong remittances and foreign direct investment inflows, ample international reserves, and a manageable level of external debt.

Overall, these conditions are seen to contribute to stable domestic prices going forward,” he said.

Esguerra, however, said there were potential risks to inflation, such as the current episode of mild El Niño dry spell.

“Regular monitoring of drought incidence in agricultural areas should be continued to ensure that appropriate policy actions are implemented without delay.

Timely importation of rice to augment domestic supply should serve as a ready measure to prevent the repeat of the high rice prices witnessed in the third quarter of 2013 until 2014,” he said.

BPI bullish, to hike investment in stocks

WEDNESDAY: MAY 6, 2015

B2

BUSINESS business@thestandard.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

MST BuSineSS Daily STockS Review Tuesday, May 5, 2015

52 Weeks

Previous

High Low

STOCKS

7.88 75.3 124.4 104 63 2.49 4.2 18.48 31.6 9.5 2.95 890 99.4 30.5 94.95 137 361.2 59 174.8 1700 127.9

2.5 66 84.6 84.5 45.8 1.97 2.03 12.02 23.55 6.3 1.75 625 78 18.02 76.5 95 276 45 107.6 1200 66

AG Finance Asia United Bank Banco de Oro Unibank Inc. Bank of PI China Bank BDO Leasing & Fin. INc. Bright Kindle Resources COL Financial Eastwest Bank Filipino Fund Inc. I-Remit Inc. Manulife Fin. Corp.

Metrobank PB Bank Phil. National Bank Phil. Savings Bank PSE Inc. RCBC `A’ Security Bank Sun Life Financial Union Bank

8 70.85 110.40 103.00 45.65 2.50 2.02 15.02 22.25 7.50 1.66 770.00 92.9 18.38 77.25 94.9 319 44.75 167 1385.00 66.00

35.6 1.6 1.04 1.41 7.92 14.6 62.5 10.08 29.15

1.04 10.72 8.44 9.79 5.43 9.54 1.06 8.61 18.06 67.9 14 13.24 3.12 168 8.65 34.1 2.3 1.63 16 24.4 16.2 7.62 250.2 3.87 9 9.94 3.03 2.22 1 4.72 1.65 6 201.6 4.1 1.67 0.122 1.02 2.01 143.4 4.28 0.670 1.39

Aboitiz Power Corp.

Agrinurture Inc. Alliance Tuna Intl Inc. Alsons Cons.

Asiabest Group Century Food Chemphil Cirtek Holdings (Chips) Concepcion Crown Asia Da Vinci Capital Del Monte DNL Industries Inc. Emperador Energy Devt. Corp. (EDC) EEI Euro-Med Lab Federal Res. Inv. Group First Gen Corp.

First Holdings ‘A’ Ginebra San Miguel Inc. Holcim Philippines Inc. Integ. Micro-Electronics Jollibee Foods Corp.

Lafarge Rep Liberty Flour LMG Chemicals Mabuhay Vinyl Macay Holdings Manila Water Co. Inc. Maxs Group Megawide Mla. Elect. Co `A’ Pepsi-Cola Products Phil.

Petron Corporation Phinma Corporation Phoenix Petroleum Phils.

Phoenix Semiconductor Pryce Corp. `A’ RFM Corporation Roxas and Co. Roxas Holdings San Miguel’Pure Foods `B’ SPC Power Corp.

Splash Corporation Swift Foods, Inc. TKC Steel Corp.

Trans-Asia Oil Universal Robina Victorias Milling Vitarich Corp.

Vulcan Ind’l.

43.3 1.65 1.07 2.08 11.36 19.02 150 27.9 63 2.59 1.83 12.98 20.350 11.50 8.21 10.06 1.88 15.4 28 93.2 14.10 14.00 6.2 207.00 10.28 36.25 2.7 2.51 51.95 24.5 28 7.800 262.60 4.19 9.80 11.58 4.00 2.36 2.4 5.12 1.91 6.4 195.9 4.54 1.77 0.167 1.30 2.17 219 4.5 0.67 1.35

0.45 48.1 20.85 1.6 6.62 1.210 1.4 1.6 600 7.390 14.18 1.15 4.25 0.144 818 5.3 46.6 4.96 4.43 0.59 12 0.580 4.22 4.5 0.450 66.7 1.5 709.5 1.13 170 85.2 0.200 0.173 0.310

Abacus Cons. `A’ Aboitiz Equity Alliance Global Inc. Anglo Holdings A Anscor `A’ Asia Amalgamated A ATN Holdings A ATN Holdings B Ayala Corp `A’ Cosco Capital DMCI Holdings F&J Prince ‘B’ Filinvest Dev. Corp.

Forum Pacific GT Capital House of Inv. JG Summit Holdings Jolliville Holdings Lopez Holdings Corp.

Lodestar Invt. Holdg.Corp.

LT Group Mabuhay Holdings `A’ Metro Pacific Inv. Corp.

Minerales Industrias Corp.

Prime Orion San Miguel Corp `A’ Seafront `A’ SM Investments Inc. Solid Group Inc. Transgrid Top Frontier Unioil Res. & Hldgs Wellex Industries Zeus Holdings

0.470 57.00 25.45 1.28 7.00 1.56 0.285 0.29 796 8.19 15.04 3.8 4.38 0.290 1273 6.20 72.50 5.3 8.78 0.75 14.64 0.63 4.53 5.01 1.180 67.95 2.96 907.00 1.17 310.00 99.50 0.3750 0.2400 0.300

6.01 12 0.91 1.29 0.192 29.1 4.1 4.96 0.89 1.1 0.97 0.083

8990 HLDG 8.900 Anchor Land Holdings Inc. 10.50 A. Brown Co., Inc. 0.79 Araneta Prop `A’ 1.360 Arthaland Corp.

0.255 Ayala Land `B’ 40.00 Belle Corp. `A’ 4.19 Cebu Holdings 5.2 Century Property 0.9 City & Land Dev. 1.22 Cityland Dev. `A’ 1.04 Crown Equities Inc. 0.155

47 5 1.66 2.36 15.3 20.6 125 32 65.8 4.57 23.35 21.6 12.98 9.13 12.34 2.89 17 31.8 109 20.75 15.3 9.4 241 12.5 79 3.95 4 45.45 33.9 90 13.98 292.4 5.25 13.04 14.5 7.03 3.4 4.5 6.68 7.86 8.1 253 5.5 3.28 0.315 2.5 2.68 226.6 5.5 1.3 2.17 0.7 59.2 31.85 2.16 7.39 2.27 3.4 3.35 800 11.06 84 3.68 5.14 0.66 1380 6.68 72.6 8.9 9.25 0.9 18.9 0.73 5.53 6.55 0.84 87 3.5 934 2.2 390 156 0.710 0.435 0.510 10.5 26.95 1.99 2.07 0.375 40 6.15 5.4 1.54 1.97 1.48 0.201

Close

High

Low

FINANCIAL 8.01 8 70.9 70 113.00 110.40 103.70 102.40 46.15 45.5 2.50 2.50 2.05 2.04 15.4 15 22.3 22.1 7.40 7.40 1.66 1.66 792.00 770.00 94.25 93 18.38 18.20 77.00 76.50 94 94 320 315 45 44.8 169.5 166.1 1420.00 1410.00 66.70 66.00 INDUSTRIAL 43.75 43.3 1.65 1.59 1.09 1.03 2.09 2.07 11.38 11.3 19.5 19.28 132 132 28.05 26.9 63.5 63 2.66 2.4 1.86 1.77 13.36 12.96 20.900 20.45 11.50 11.42 8.40 8.29 10.20 10.06 1.86 1.8 15.5 14.5 28.85 28.15 94.6 93.5 15.14 14.30 14.00 14.00 6.29 6.11 212.00 208.60 10.3 10.1 35.00 35.00 2.77 2.7 2.51 2.51 52.00 47.20 24.65 24.1 28 27.1 7.900 7.650 263.80 262.60 4.37 4.19 9.85 9.65 11.60 11.38 4.04 3.90 2.38 2.32 2.52 2.37 5.14 5.06 1.98 1.92 6.01 6 200 195.9 4.46 4.15 1.77 1.72 0.169 0.165 1.37 1.37 2.58 2.20 222.6 219 4.5 4.5 0.76 0.67 1.35 1.35 HOLDING FIRMS 0.470 0.470 57.60 57.30 25.80 25.50 1.28 1.28 7.00 6.88 1.55 1.55 0.315 0.285 0.31 0.29 801 796 8.25 8.1 15.18 15.04 3.79 3.05 4.45 4.30 0.285 0.280 1318 1285 6.40 6.20 74.20 72.45 6 5 8.94 8.79 0.74 0.7 15.14 14.7 0.66 0.66 4.59 4.54 5.2 5.1 1.220 1.130 68.00 67.15 2.96 2.95 925.00 910.00 1.24 1.17 263.80 263.00 99.50 98.00 0.3800 0.3750 0.2450 0.2250 0.315 0.305 PROPERTY 8.900 8.720 10.48 9.46 0.76 0.74 1.310 1.310 0.265 0.265 40.65 39.50 4.19 4.15 5.25 5.13 0.91 0.89 1.22 1.22 1.07 1.06 0.156 0.154

Close

%

Net Foreign

Change Volume

Trade/Buying

8 70.9 112.50 102.90 46 2.50 2.04 15.38 22.15 7.40 1.66 792.00 93.65 18.20 76.90 94 319 45 167.1 1420.00 66.50

0.00 0.07 1.90 -0.10 0.77 0.00 0.99 2.40 -0.45 -1.33 0.00 2.86 0.81 -0.98 -0.45 -0.95 0.00 0.56 0.06 2.53 0.76

182,300 42,910 4,454,270 567,110 51,800 1,000 53,000 9,000 96,200 12,600 2,000 1,910 4,145,510 24,100 10,330 20,020 1,200 261,100 127,220 1,620 17,750

43.65 1.64 1.08 2.09 11.38 19.44 132 27.85 63 2.43 1.86 13.16 20.600 11.48 8.37 10.20 1.8 15.18 28.75 94.6 14.30 14.00 6.17 211.00 10.2 35.00 2.7 2.51 52.00 24.65 27.55 7.770 263.60 4.27 9.80 11.60 4.00 2.33 2.4 5.10 1.92 6 196 4.15 1.72 0.166 1.37 2.24 220.8 4.5 0.72 1.35

0.81 -0.61 0.93 0.48 0.18 2.21 -12.00 -0.18 0.00 -6.18 1.64 1.39 1.23 -0.17 1.95 1.39 -4.26 -1.43 2.68 1.50 1.42 0.00 -0.48 1.93 -0.78 -3.45 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.61 -1.61 -0.38 0.38 1.91 0.00 0.17 0.00 -1.27 0.00 -0.39 0.52 -6.25 0.05 -8.59 -2.82 -0.60 5.38 3.23 0.82 0.00 7.46 0.00

2,332,600 34,000 1,350,000 845,000 1,600 329,200 10 103,200 58,950 10,730,000 436,000 52,700 1,594,300 424,000 20,608,000 622,800 46,000 70,600 3,196,600 584,390 78,800 11,000 119,400 672,480 572,900 100 26,000 3,000 90 1,399,100 251,500 1,611,300 128,510 1,103,000 796,900 43,700 97,000 831,000 628,000 279,500 51,000 14,100 5,040 60,000 1,234,000 950,000 13,000 31,971,000 2,302,510 127,000 7,422,000 247,000

0.470 57.30 25.65 1.28 7.00 1.55 0.305 0.31 801 8.2 15.08 3.79 4.30 0.280 1315 6.39 74.00 5 8.9 0.71 15 0.66 4.54 5.1 1.130 67.40 2.96 925.00 1.24 263.40 98.50 0.3750 0.2400 0.315

0.00 0.53 0.79 0.00 0.00 -0.64 7.02 5.17 0.63 0.12 0.27 -0.26 -1.83 -3.45 3.30 3.06 2.07 -5.66 1.37 -5.33 2.46 4.76 0.22 1.80 -4.24 -0.81 0.00 1.98 5.98 -15.03 -1.01 0.00 0.00 5.00

60,000 3,634,650 13,107,000 20,000 41,300 1,000 35,390,000 3,320,000 461,080 940,800 4,896,900 18,000 129,000 320,000 259,005 346,700 2,907,270 6,200 4,035,400 2,075,000 8,037,700 29,000 32,298,000 77,000 15,956,000 173,940 10,000 243,650 3,000 800 1,080 3,240,000 1,020,000 430,000

8.850 10.48 0.75 1.310 0.265 40.45 4.17 5.23 0.9 1.22 1.07 0.156

-0.56 -0.19 -5.06 -3.68 3.92 1.13 -0.48 0.58 0.00 0.00 2.88 0.65

515,000 2,000 3,128,000 34,000 30,000 7,730,100 6,061,000 29,000 2,081,000 3,000 257,000 2,620,000

1,128,485.50 -61,776,206.00 -4,104,617.00

-809,355.00 994,460.00 -99,589,592.00

52 Weeks

Previous

High Low

STOCKS

Close

0.98 1.09 0.305 2.25 1.87 1.8 5.73 0.180 0.470 0.72 8.54 31.8 2.29 3.6 20.6 1.02 7.56 1.96 8.59

0.445 0.85 0.188 1.4 1.42 1.19 4.13 0.090 0.325 0.39 2.57 21.35 1.64 3.08 15.08 0.69 3.38 1 5.69

Cyber Bay Corp.

Empire East Land Ever Gotesco Global-Estate Filinvest Land,Inc. Interport `A’ Megaworld MRC Allied Ind. Phil. Estates Corp.

Phil. Realty `A’ Primex Corp.

Robinson’s Land `B’ Rockwell Shang Properties Inc. SM Prime Holdings Sta. Lucia Land Inc. Starmalls Suntrust Home Dev. Inc. Vista Land & Lifescapes

10.5 66 1.44 1.09 12.46 15.82 0.1460 4.61 99.1 12.3 9 4 1700 2090 8.41 33 1.97 119.5 7 12.5 0.017 0.8200 2.2800 5.93 12.28 2.85 2.2 3.2 5.9 1.97 2.46 15.2 0.62 1.040 22.8 6.41 4 110.2 14 3486 0.710 2.28 48.5 90.1 11.6 0.87 2.95 10.2 0.490 1.6

1.97 32.5 1 0.6 10 9.61 0.0770 2.95 46.55 10.14 5.88 2.58 830 1600 5.95 30 1.36 105 3.01 8.72 0.012 0.036 1.200 2.34 6.5 1.69 1.1 2 1.05 0.490 1.8 8.7 0.34 0.37 14.54 3 2.28 79 4.39 2726 0.380 0.32 31.45 60.55 7.59 0.63 1.71 6.45 0.305 1.04

2GO Group’ ABS-CBN Acesite Hotel APC Group, Inc. Asian Terminals Inc. Bloomberry Boulevard Holdings Calata Corp.

Cebu Air Inc. (5J) Centro Esc. Univ.

DFNN Inc. Easy Call “Common” FEUI Globe Telecom GMA Network Inc. Grand Plaza Hotel Harbor Star I.C.T.S.I. Imperial Res. `A’ IPeople Inc. `A’ IP E-Game Ventures Inc. Island Info ISM Communications Jackstones Leisure & Resorts Liberty Telecom Lorenzo Shipping Macroasia Corp.

Manila Broadcasting Manila Bulletin Manila Jockey Melco Crown MG Holdings NOW Corp.

Pacific Online Sys. Corp.

PAL Holdings Inc. Paxys Inc. Phil. Seven Corp.

Philweb.Com Inc. PLDT Common PremiereHorizon Premium Leisure Puregold Robinsons RTL SSI Group STI Holdings Transpacific Broadcast Travellers Waterfront Phils.

Yehey

0.0098 5.45 17.24 25 0.330 12.7 12.8 1.2 1.73 10.98 4.2 0.48 0.455 0.475 0.023 0.026 8.2 49.2 4.27 1.030 3.06 0.020 0.021 7.67 12.88 10.42 0.040 420 9 0.016

0.0043 1.72 8.65 9.43 0.236 6.5 6.98 0.61 0.78 5.99 1.08 0.330 0.2130 0.2160 0.014 0.014 3.660 20.2 2.11 0.365 1.54 0.012 0.013 5.4 7.26 2.27 0.015 115.9 3.67 0.0100

Abra Mining Apex `A’ Atlas Cons. `A’ Atok-Big Wedge `A’ Basic Energy Corp.

Benguet Corp `A’ Benguet Corp `B’ Century Peak Metals Hldgs Coal Asia Dizon Ferronickel Geograce Res. Phil. Inc. Lepanto `A’ Lepanto `B’ Manila Mining `A’ Manila Mining `B’ Marcventures Hldgs., Inc. Nickelasia Nihao Mineral Resources Omico Oriental Peninsula Res. Oriental Pet. `A’ Oriental Pet. `B’ Petroenergy Res. Corp.

Philex `A’ PhilexPetroleum Philodrill Corp. `A’ Semirara Corp.

TA Petroleum United Paragon

70 553 525 118 120 8.21 12.28 111 1060

33 490 500 101 101.5 5.88 6.5 101 997

1047 76.9 84.8

1011 74.2 75

ABS-CBN Holdings Corp.

Ayala Corp. Pref `B1’ Ayala Corp. Pref ‘B2’ First Gen F First Gen G GMA Holdings Inc. Leisure and Resort MWIDE PREF PCOR-Preferred A PCOR-Preferred B PF Pref 2 SMC Preferred A SMC Preferred C

High

Low

Close

%

Net Foreign

Change Volume

Trade/Buying

0.475 0.860 0.192 1.37 1.88 1.41 5.36 0.122 0.3300 0.5100 7 29.90 1.76 3.30 19.00 0.78 7 0.990 7.490

0.480 0.465 0.465 0.870 0.860 0.860 0.190 0.180 0.183 1.42 1.36 1.38 1.95 1.86 1.94 1.44 1.40 1.40 5.47 5.37 5.42 0.125 0.120 0.122 0.3400 0.3300 0.3400 0.5100 0.5000 0.5000 7.02 7.01 7.01 30.00 29.30 29.35 1.77 1.76 1.76 3.30 3.21 3.30 19.90 19.20 19.90 0.78 0.76 0.76 7 6.48 7 1.030 1.000 1.000 7.640 7.470 7.520 SERVICES 6.36 6.53 6.34 6.5 61.5 62.25 61.3 62.2 1.06 1.15 1.03 1.03 0.680 0.690 0.680 0.680 14 13.54 13.54 13.54 11.68 11.88 11.68 11.70 0.1000 0.1030 0.1010 0.1020 4.8 4.99 4.82 4.9 85.3 87.1 86 87 10.36 10 10 10 7.00 7.18 7.12 7.18 3.12 4.20 3.14 3.30 932 999.5 946 946 2182 2222 2182 2212 6.30 6.32 6.27 6.27 44.90 59.00 38.00 45.90 1.46 1.44 1.41 1.43 111 111.5 110 111 6.61 6.61 6.55 6.55 12.38 12.4 11.52 12.4 0.013 0.014 0.013 0.014 0.238 0.238 0.232 0.232 1.2600 1.2600 1.2500 1.2500 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.6 9.60 9.65 9.51 9.55 2.05 2.04 1.99 2.04 1.29 1.27 1.26 1.26 2.14 2.19 2.14 2.19 20.25 30.35 30.35 30.35 0.680 0.670 0.670 0.670 2 2.05 2 2.05 9.08 9.15 9.05 9.05 0.360 0.370 0.355 0.370 0.440 0.435 0.435 0.435 18.38 18.44 18.42 18.44 4.70 5.10 4.70 5.10 3 2.99 2.8 2.99 116.00 145.00 117.00 139.00 14.72 14.74 14.58 14.74 2840.00 2892.00 2842.00 2884.00 0.610 0.620 0.610 0.610 1.680 1.700 1.650 1.660 39.20 41.10 39.35 40.30 85.90 87.00 85.90 86.10 10.40 10.76 10.34 10.72 0.67 0.67 0.66 0.66 1.96 1.96 1.73 1.96 6.8 6.8 6.66 6.8 0.340 0.345 0.330 0.340 1.360 1.310 1.300 1.300 MINING & OIL 0.0054 0.0054 0.0053 0.0053 2.65 2.65 2.60 2.60 8.00 8.09 8.00 8.00 15.42 15.48 14.50 15.00 0.255 0.265 0.265 0.265 6.7000 6.7200 6.7000 6.7000 6.8000 6.8100 6.8000 6.8000 1.02 1.07 1.02 1.04 0.89 0.9 0.89 0.9 7.88 7.95 7.68 7.68 1.85 1.9 1.86 1.87 0.350 0.360 0.345 0.350 0.233 0.233 0.230 0.233 0.234 0.240 0.235 0.235 0.0140 0.0140 0.0140 0.0140 0.0150 0.0150 0.0140 0.0150 4.26 4.25 4.18 4.2 23.3 24.5 23.65 24.2 3.81 3.88 3.81 3.83 0.7200 0.7100 0.7100 0.7100 2.200 2.270 2.200 2.200 0.0120 0.0130 0.0120 0.0130 0.0130 0.0140 0.0140 0.0140 4.58 4.58 4.48 4.50 7.17 7.29 7.15 7.15 1.77 1.78 1.66 1.67 0.015 0.016 0.015 0.016 163.80 165.50 164.00 164.50 4.21 6.31 4.28 5.7 0.0100 0.0100 0.0100 0.0100 PREFERRED 62.5 65 62.5 65 520 515 515 515 522 525 525 525 121 122 122 122 119 120 120 120 5.97 6.2 6.2 6.2 1.09 1.09 1.09 1.09 115.9 108.1 108.1 108.1 1150 1080 1066 1066 1095 1095 1095 1095 1045 1045 1045 1045 76.2 76.1 76 76.1 85 85 83.05 85 WARRANTS & BONDS 4.280 4.360 4.210 4.300 SME 9 9.23 9 9.2 7.99 8.44 6.1 8 77.4 75.95 73.5 75.9 9.2 9.45 9.2 9.3 EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 127.1 128.9 127.5 128.9

-2.11 0.00 -4.69 0.73 3.19 -0.71 1.12 0.00 3.03 -1.96 0.14 -1.84 0.00 0.00 4.74 -2.56 0.00 1.01 0.40

2,570,000 43,000 2,140,000 6,457,000 24,430,000 1,156,000 35,891,200 4,030,000 1,320,000 294,000 219,000 2,229,900 341,000 157,000 24,580,800 24,000 1,900 35,000 3,570,500

9,300.00

2.20 1.14 -2.83 0.00 -3.29 0.17 2.00 2.08 1.99 -3.47 2.57 5.77 1.50 1.37 -0.48 2.23 -2.05 0.00 -0.91 0.16 7.69 -2.52 -0.79 0.00 -0.52 -0.49 -2.33 2.34 49.88 -1.47 2.50 -0.33 2.78 -1.14 0.33 8.51 -0.33 19.83 0.14 1.55 0.00 -1.19 2.81 -0.23 3.08 -1.49 0.00 0.00 0.00 -4.41

98,900 30,960 484,000 446,000 500 15,325,300 5,610,000 1,641,000 874,110 51,500 5,200 140,000 1,340 26,065 176,500 21,200 95,000 908,580 1,000 102,600 1,300,000 5,350,000 128,000 20,000 460,000 10,000 29,000 2,000 5,700 77,000 52,000 2,847,400 60,000 12,000 3,000 458,000 38,000 940 136,700 111,160 1,442,000 10,811,000 4,842,900 1,677,620 6,742,600 1,454,000 20,000 2,403,400 760,000 64,000

-1.85 -1.89 0.00 -2.72 3.92 0.00 0.00 1.96 1.12 -2.54 1.08 0.00 0.00 0.43 0.00 0.00 -1.41 3.86 0.52 -1.39 0.00 8.33 7.69 -1.75 -0.28 -5.65 6.67 0.43 35.39 0.00

370,000,000 -58,300.00 152,000 241,000 29,100 80,000 7,000 3,000 528,000 -10,200.00 111,000 11,400 11,568,000 7,595,040.00 2,560,000 1,480,000 90,000 170,700,000 13,500,000 -28,000.00 299,000 8,037,800 41,436,810.00 833,000 58,150.00 318,000 512,000 -475,780.00 4,800,000 200,000 121,000 258,600 229,120.00 2,051,000 55,100.00 46,300,000 539,450 14,672,786.00 7,735,000 -269,950.00 12,500,000

4.00 -0.96 0.57 0.83 0.84 3.85 0.00 -6.73 -7.30 0.00 0.00 -0.13 0.00

313,930 500 7,600 1,000 3,800 300 102,000 170 600 540 2,665 22,400 128,560

36,600.00 -5,982,490.00 1,145,730.00 -26,050,492.00

-22,936,315.00 268,908,408.00

MST

Trading Summary FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL HOLDING FIRMS PROPERTY SERVICES MINING & OIL GRAND TOTAL

SHARES 10,083,616 96,496,793 134,687,662 135,764,946 68,390,691 655,828,817 1,103,988,357

-91,557.50

19,080.00 288,100.00 9,110,312.00 1,022,400.00

-11,097,535.00 -15,900.00 0.00

-1,024,706.00

-418,500.00 214,735.00 55,990.00 -18,000.00

-3,071,890.00 -2,988,728.00 90,173,197.00 2,127,720.00

38,220.00 5,299,980.00 21,452,924.50

151,200.00

46,704,882.00 -595,078.00 -24,300.00 735.00

-6,570,955.00 -27,100.00 -11,025,849.00 7,896,786.00 227,150.00 2,307,559.00 71,020.00 42,120.00 -11,950.00 833,846.00

-488,204.00

41,040.00 -33,200.00

450,240.00 75,434,404.00 468,000.00 904,940.00

-14,891,615.50 -48,933,480.00

-14,090.00

338,500.00 210,618,520.00 533,474.00 -5,053,456.00

-79,916,895.00 658,607.00 33,919,881.50 26,532,263.00

12,993,016.00

-33,236,290.00

-62,640.00 -3,645,380.00

-47,614,735.00

-985.00

456,594.00 15,720.00 -7,950.00 -34,305,160.00 17,633,100.00 140,689.00 -1,345,470.00 -13,880.00

6.98

0.8900 LR Warrant

10.96 15 88 12.88

2.4 3.5 13.5 5.95

130.7

105.6 First Metro ETF

Double Dragon Makati Fin. Corp.

IRipple E-Business Intl Xurpas

T op g ainerS VALUE 998,148,978.89 1,362,978,794.804 2,389,370,731.309 1,206,588,880.58 1,298,173,221.65 371,073,230.765 7,652,449,505.399

STOCKS

FINANCIAL 1,804.21 (up) 12.16 INDUSTRIAL 12,524.01 (UP) 131.81 HOLDING FIRMS 7,062.62 (UP) 98.95 PROPERTY 3,230.10 (UP) 55.37 SERVICES 2,156.89 (UP) 20.90 MINING & OIL 15,198.62 (UP) 155.80 PSEI 7,919.21 (UP) 102.77 All Shares Index 4,552.23 (UP) 54.84 Gainers: 113 Losers:78; Unchanged: 46; Total: 237

-23,130,258.00

-38,770.00 -241,858.00 -48,400.00 -25,849,325.00 7,000.00

38,560.00 -11,320,200.00

56,899,914.00

2,947,868.00

-11,364,265.00

43,020.00 -56,000.00 26,720.00 151,774.00 13,474,250.00

-666,540.00 -4,440,580.00 1,813,922.00 10,161,340.00 -617,230.00 -17,440.00 -619,090.00

10,695,846.50

0.47

491,000

-364,580.00

2.22 0.13 -1.94 1.09

1,648,100 22,000 1,140 1,057,800

-614,890.00 -3,780.00 11,392.50 4,143,024.00

1.42

6,790

T op L oSerS Close (P)

Change (%)

STOCKS

Close (P)

Change (%)

Manila Broadcasting

30.35

49.88

Transgrid

263.40

-15.03

TA Petroleum

5.7

35.39

Chemphil

132

-12.00

Phil. Seven Corp.

139.00

19.83

SPC Power Corp.

4.15

-8.59

PAL Holdings Inc.

5.10

8.51

PCOR-Preferred A

1066

-7.30

Oriental Pet. `A'

0.0130

8.33

MWIDE PREF

108.1

-6.73

Oriental Pet. `B'

0.0140

7.69

Roxas Holdings

6

-6.25

IP E-Game Ventures Inc.

0.014

7.69

Crown Asia

2.43

-6.18

Vitarich Corp.

0.72

7.46

Jolliville Holdings

5

-5.66

ATN Holdings A

0.305

7.02

PhilexPetroleum

1.67

-5.65

Philodrill Corp. `A'

0.016

6.67

Lodestar Invt. Holdg.Corp.

0.71

-5.33

WEDNESDAY: MAY 6, 2015

BUSINESS business@thestandard.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

B3

Semirara sees P10-b net profit this year

By Alena Mae S. Flores

Semirara mining & Power Corp. forecasts consolidated net income to reach P10 billion this year on additional generating capacity from new power projects and increased utilization of current plants.

GrabTaxi partner. Visa Inc. has teamed up with GrabTaxi Philippines to introduce a new payment

method for a recently-launched GrabCar+ premium car limousine service. Riders who use GrabCar+ can now use their Visa debit, credit and prepaid cards to pay for their fares through Globe Charge, Globe’s marketleading mobile point-of-sale terminals that will be deployed in premium GrabCar+ vehicles. The premium limousine platform employs vehicles such as a Nissan Patrol, a Mini Cooper, and a Hummer H3. Sealing the partnershop are (from left) GrabTaxi director Brian Cu, Visa head of sales for the Philippines and Guam Pia Arellano and Globe president and chief executive Ernest Cu.

Market climbs; SM Prime rallies

Semirara Mining chairman and chief executive Isidro Consunji told reporters it expected an estimated income of P1 billion from the commercial operations of the 300-megawatt coal power plant The stock market rallied for the percent to P1,312, while Philippine pect of a sell-off. second day Tuesday, boosted by Long Distance Telephone Co., the hong Kong’s main index slid expansion in Calaca, Batangas this year. initial reports of favorable cor- largest telecommunications firm, 1.0 percent by mid-session, track“We are optimistic about our prospects for 2015 and onwards porate earnings and government added 1.7 percent to P2,888. ing China stocks which fell as the with the 2x300 MW in full operation and the coming on-stream of data showing the inflation rate fell Puregold Price Club Inc. of retail new issues raised the prospect of our 2x150 MW CFB power plants starting second quarter of 2015,” to a two-year low of 2.2 percent in tycoon Lucio Co gained 2.8 per- funds being diverted from existing April. cent to P40.30, while Nickel Asia equities, dealers said. The benchConsunji said.

The Philippine Stock exchange Corp., the biggest nickel producer, mark Shanghai Composite Index The Consunji Group acquired the 600-MW Calaca coal-fired dropped 1.84 percent at the break. power plant from the government in 2009. The plants have since Index advanced 102.77 points, or jumped 4.1 percent to P24.25.

1.3 percent, to 7,919.21 on a value LT Group Inc. of tobacco and “Today and tomorrow will be the undergone rehabilitation to ensure reliable delivery of power turnover of P7.6 billion. Gainers airline tycoon Lucio Tan advanced peak for the latest round of IPOs supply. beat losers, 113 to 78, with 46 issues 2.6 percent P15.02, while Jollibee so people may be selling down The company anticipates top-line growth to come to track in unchanged.

Foods Corp. climbed 1.9 percent to their holdings from the secondary 2015 with the normalization of the Sem-Calaca units 1 and 2 and BDO Unibank Inc., the biggest P211. market to use the money for IPO The rest of Asian stocks drifted subscription,” Steven Leung, hong the completion of the new 300-megawatt power plants of South lender, rose 1.7 percent to P112.30, while SM Prime holdings Inc. of Tuesday, reversing earlier gains, Kong-based director of instituLuzonPower Generation Corp.

“This year the 2x150 MW will start contributing revenue from retail tycoon henry Sy Sr. surged with China stocks taking fright as tional sales at UOB Kay hian, told 4.4 percent to P19.84. new share issues raised the pros- Bloomberg News. With AFP the sale of power from new power supply agreements,” he said.

GT Capital holdings Inc. of Semirara’s consolidated net income after tax dipped 9 percent to tycoon George Ty climbed 3.1 Republicofofthe thePhilippines Philippines Republic P6.9 billion last year from Officeofofthe thePresident President Office P7.5 billion in 2013 due NationalIrrigation IrrigationAdministration Administration National to reduced operations Republicofofthe thePhilippines Philippines Republic (PAMBANSANG PANGASIWAAN NGPATUBIG) PATUBIG) (PAMBANSANG PANGASIWAAN NG of the power segment DepartmentofofEnvironment Environmentand andNatural NaturalResources Resources Department Region33 Region ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT BUREAU BUREAU ENVIRONMENTAL and significant losses on Bulacan-Aurora-NuevaEcija EcijaIrrigation IrrigationManagement Managementoffice office Bulacan-Aurora-Nueva DENRCompound, Compound,Visayas VisayasAvenue, Avenue,Diliman, Diliman,Quezon QuezonCity City1116 1116 DENR replacement purchases, TelephoneNos.: Nos.:927-15-17, 927-15-17,928-20-96 928-20-96 Telephone Office Address: Tambubong, Tambubong, San Rafael, Bulacan Office Address: San Rafael, Bulacan Telephone Nos.:(044) (044) 766-3888 / 766-4142 / 766-0157 / 766-3524 Email: emb@emb.gov.ph : emb@emb.gov.ph which were partly Telephone Nos.: 766-3888 / 766-4142 / 766-0157 / 766-3524 Email Email Address: niabaneimo_es@yahoo.com/niabaneimo_om@yahoo.com niabaneimo_es@yahoo.com/niabaneimo_om@yahoo.com Telefax No. (044) 766-3888 Email Address: Telefax No. (044) 766-3888 Visitususatathttp://www.emb.gov.ph http://www.emb.gov.ph Visit niabaneimoafs@yahoo.com TIN No. 000-578-009-000 niabaneimoafs@yahoo.com TIN No. 000-578-009-000 countered by the strong performance of the coal mining component.

NOTICEOF OFPUBLIC PUBLICHEARING HEARING NOTICE INVITATIONto toBID BID INVITATION Coal contributed an theENVIRONMENTAL ENVIRONMENTALIMPACT IMPACTASSESSMENT ASSESSMENT(EIA) (EIA)REPORTS REPORTSofofthe theproposed proposed income of P3.64 billion OnOnthe April28, 28,2015 2015 April GoldMining MiningProjects Projectsunder underLobo LoboMPSA MPSA176-2002-IV 176-2002-IVand andArchangel ArchangelMPSA MPSA177177-2002-IV 2002-IV Gold while Sem Calaca Power ofofthe theProponent ProponentEgerton EgertonGold GoldPhils, Phils,Inc. Inc.(EGPI) (EGPI)totobe belocated locatedatatthe theMunicipality MunicipalityofofLobo, Lobo, Batangas: Corp. accounted for Batangas: The National National Irrigation Irrigation Administration Administration (NIA) (NIA) Bulacan-Aurora-Nueva Bulacan-Aurora-Nueva Ecija Ecija The IrrigationManagement ManagementOffice Office(BANE), (BANE),San SanRafael, Rafael,Bulacan, Bulacan,through throughitsitsBids Bidsand and Irrigation Noticeisishereby herebygiven giventotoallallparties partieswho whowish wishtotogive givetheir theiropinion opinionregarding regardingthe the Notice P3.24 billion.

AwardsCommittee Committee(BAC), (BAC),invites invitesContractors Contractorstotobid bidfor: for: implementationofofthe theproposed proposedGOLD GOLDMINING MININGOPERATIONS OPERATIONSPROJECTS PROJECTStotoattend attenda a Awards implementation Consolidated revenues Public PublicHearing Hearingscheduled scheduledasasfollows: follows: ITBNo.R3-BANE-CCAW-2015-BU-22 No.R3-BANE-CCAW-2015-BU-22Construction Constructionofofdrainage drainage&&slope slopeprotection protection ITB in 2014 improved to Project ScheduleofofPublic Public Venue Project Schedule Venue AngatRiver River(Bustos (BustosSide), Side),Bustos, Bustos,Bulacan.

Bulacan.The Theapproved approvedBudget Budgetfor forthe the atatAngat Heari Heari P28.59 billion from Gold Contract(ABC) (ABC)isisPP5,106,156.19 5,106,156.19with withcontract contractduration durationofof90 90calendar calendardays. days.

Contract GoldMining Miningand andProcessing ProcessingProject Project May21, 21,2015 2015 PuntaMalabrigo Malabrigo May Punta Bid Documents cost P 5,000.00.

Bid Documents cost P 5,000.00. underLobo LoboMPSA MPSA176-2002-IV 176-2002-IVinin Malabrigo,Lobo LoboBatangas Batangas under Malabrigo, P27.33 billion in 2013.

BarangaysMabilog Mabilogand andSawang, Sawang,Lobo, Lobo, 9:00 9:00AM AM-12:00 -12:00NN NN Barangays Batangas (Registrationstarts starts (Registration “The results in the Batangas ITBNo.R3-BANE-EEEIS-2015-BU-23 No.R3-BANE-EEEIS-2015-BU-23Improvement ImprovementofofCansinala CansinalaExtension Extensioncanal canal ITB 7:30AM AM atat7:30 variousAMRIS AMRISArea, Area,Candaba, Candaba,Pampanga.

Pampanga.The Theapproved approvedBudget Budgetfor forthe the &&various last few years have Gold GoldMining MiningProject Projectunder underArchangel Archangel May22, 22,2015 2015 PuntaMalabrigo Malabrigo May Punta Contract(ABC) (ABC)isisPP8,889,976.56 8,889,976.56with withcontract contractduration durationofof120 120calendar calendardays. days.

Contract MPSA 177-2002-IV in Barangay Balibago, Malabrigo, Lobo Batangas MPSA 177-2002-IV in Barangay Balibago, Malabrigo, Lobo Batangas BidDocuments Documentscost costPP10,000.00.

10,000.00. been uneven, but our Lobo, Bid Lobo,Batangas Batangas 9:00AM AM-12:00 -12:00NN NN 9:00 (Registrationstarts startsatat7:30 7:30AM) AM) (Registration medium-term growth ITBNo.R3-BANE-EEEIS-2015-BU-24 No.R3-BANE-EEEIS-2015-BU-24Construction Constructionofofdiversion diversiondam, dam,canal canalsystem system ITB androad roadsystem systemofofBomba BombaRIS RIS(Phase (PhaseII), II),Candaba, Candaba,Pampanga.

Pampanga.The Theapproved approved ThisPublic PublicHearing Hearingisisbeing beingconducted conductedininconnection connectionwith withthe thereview reviewofofthe theEIA EIAReports Reports outlook remains This and Budgetfor forthe theContract Contract(ABC) (ABC)isisPP9,167,487.35 9,167,487.35with withcontract contractduration durationofof120 120 theaforementioned aforementionedprojects projectsbybythe theEnvironmental EnvironmentalManagement ManagementBureau Bureau(EMB) (EMB)ofofthe the Budget ofofthe positive,” Consunji said. Department DepartmentofofEnvironment Environmentand andNatural NaturalResources Resources(DENR).

(DENR). calendardays. days.Bid BidDocuments Documentscost costPP10,000.00.

10,000.00. calendar “With the All interested parties who wish to attend, participate in this Public Hearing should confirm All interested parties who wish to attend, participate in this Public Hearing should confirm Interestedbidders biddersmust musthave haveexperience experienceininundertaking undertakingaasimilar similarproject projectwithin within Interested normalization of Sem- their theirattendance/participation attendance/participationininthis thisOffice Officethrough throughemail emailatateia@emb.gov.ph eia@emb.gov.phororcontact contact thelast last33years yearswith withan anamount amountofofatatleast least50% 50%ofofthe theproposed proposedproject projectfor forbidding. bidding. the usatattelephone telephonenumbers numbers(02) (02)920-2240 920-2240toto41.

41.Those Thosewho whowill willnot notbe beable abletotoconfirm confirmoror us Calaca Power units 1 and submit submitwritten writtenpositions positionsmay maybe begiven giventhe theopportunity opportunitytotoshare sharetheir theirissues issueson onthe theday dayofof Anybid bidabove abovethe theABC ABCasasstated statedabove aboveeach eachITB ITBshall shallbe berejected rejectedoutright. outright.

Any thehearing hearingitself. itself.However, However,priority priorityshall shallbe begiven giventotothose thosewho whodid didtheir theirconfirmation confirmationprior prior 2 and completion of our the theschedule scheduleofofthe thehearing hearingand andthen thenfollowed followedbybythe theearly earlyregistrants registrantsduring duringthe thehearing. hearing. totothe Issuance of Bid Documents: (Upon payment May 8, 2015 – 10:00AM Issuance of Bid Documents: (Upon payment May 8, 2015 – 10:00AM power expansion project non-refundableamount amountasasstated statedabove above NIA-BANE,San SanRafael, Rafael,Bulacan Bulacan ofofnon-refundable NIA-BANE, Fullcopies copiesofofthe theEIA EIAReports Reportscan canbe beaccessed accessedatatthe theEMB EMBOffices Offices(Central (Centraland andRegional Regional Full under Southwest Luzon, IV-A), eachITB) ITB) each IV-A),Municipal MunicipalEnvironmental Environmentaland andNatural NaturalResources ResourcesOffice OfficeofofLobo Loboand andProvincial Provincial GovernmentEnvironment Environmentand andNatural NaturalResources ResourcesOffice OfficeofofBatangas.

Batangas.Copies Copiesofofthe the we expect both operating Government Scheduleofofactivities activities>> Pre-Bidding Submission/Opening Submission/OpeningofofBids: Bids: Schedule Pre-Bidding ExecutiveSummary Summaryand andProject ProjectFact FactSheets Sheetsare areavailable availableininour ourwebsite: website:www.emb.gov. www.emb.gov. segments to delivery Executive NIA,BANE BANEIMO IMO May12, 12,2015 2015 May26, 26,2015 2015 ph/portal/eia/Home.aspxand andatatthe theBarangay BarangayOffices OfficesofofBalibago, Balibago,Mabilog Mabilogna naBundok Bundok NIA, May May ph/portal/eia/Home.aspx andSawang, Sawang,Lobo, Lobo,Batangas.

Batangas. steady growth for the and R3-BANE-CCAW-2015-BU-22 9:30AM AM 9:30AM AM R3-BANE-CCAW-2015-BU-22 9:30 9:30 Individualand/or and/ororganizations organizationsmay maygive givetheir theiropinion(s) opinion(s)inina aconcise conciseposition positionpaper paper company,” he said.

Individual R3-BANE-EEEIS-2015-BU-23 10:30AM AM 10:30AM AM R3-BANE-EEEIS-2015-BU-23 10:30 10:30 submittedtotothe theEnvironmental EnvironmentalImpact ImpactAssessment Assessmentand andManagement Management(EIAM) (EIAM)Division Divisionofof R3-BANE-EEEIS-2015-BU-24 1:30PM PM 1:30PM PM R3-BANE-EEEIS-2015-BU-24 1:30 1:30 Semirara plans a submitted thisOffice Officeon onororbefore beforeMay May14, 14,2015.

2015.Submissions Submissionsmay mayalso alsobe bethru thrumailed mailedletters lettersororthru thru this e-mails at the EMB email address of eia@emb.gov.ph. e-mails at the EMB email address of eia@emb.gov.ph.

The NIA-BANE NIA-BANE assumes assumes no no responsibility responsibility whatsoever whatsoever toto compensate compensate oror separate 350-MW coal The indemnifybidders biddersfor forany anyexpenses expensesincurred incurredininthe thepreparation preparationofofbids. bids.Also, Also,NIA NIA indemnify Formore moredetails, details,please pleasecontact contactthe theEIAM EIAMDivision Divisionofofthis thisOffice Officeand andlook lookfor forthe theprojects’ projects’ plant expansion in For reserves the theright righttotoreject rejectany anyororallallbids bidsatatany anytime timeprior priortotoaward, award,waive waiveany any reserves Casehandlers: handlers: Case defectstherein thereinand andtotodeclare declarethe thebidding biddingaafailure failurefor forwhatever whateverreasons reasonsit itmay maydeem deem Calaca, Batangas and is defects appropriate. appropriate. expected to sign a joint Engr.Carlo CarloVic VicArida Arida 1.1.

Engr.

Engr.Regina ReginaPaula PaulaEugenio Eugenio venture agreement with a 2.2.Engr.

SGD.ROBERTO ROBERTOJ.J.DELA DELACRUZ CRUZ SGD. local partner in the next Chairman––BAC BAC Chairman Protectthe theenvironment... environment...Protect Protectlife... life...

Protect 90 days.

M AY ( T S( T- S M-AY 6 , 62,0 2150 15 ) )

M AY ( T S( T- S M-AY 6 , 62,0 2150 15 ) )

B4

BUSINESS

Free trade with Canada eyed

By Othel V. Campos

THE Philippines plans to sign free trade agreements with Canada and Mexico, an official of the Trade Department said Tuesday.

Trade Undersecretary for international policy Adrian Cristobal Jr. said the Philippines was keen on having free trade agreements with both countries.

Cristobal said he recently visited Canada to explore opportunities with the North American country and ahead of President Benigno Aquino III’s visit.

“My trip to Canada was in preparation for the President’s

visit. It’s a unique opportunity from our point of view since Canada is a huge new market for us, a source of new investments.

We have initial studies that an FTA with Canada will be beneficial to the Philippines,” Cristobal said in an interview.

President Aquino is set to fly to the US and Canada on May 6, with trade issues on top of his agenda.

Cristobal said Canada was

aware that the Philippines, as an emerging market, is a country of focus in “what they call as development program.”

“We both have complementary strategic interests. The FTA and the investment protection agreement are initiatives of both [countries],” Cristobal said.

Cristobal said the Philippines would also review the investment promotion and mutual protection agreement it signed with Canada in the 1990s.

The Philippines has over 40 investment promotion and mutual protection agreements with different countries.

Cristobal said the Philippines

also wanted a free trade deal as well as investment promotion and mutual protection agreement with Mexico.

“The purpose of having investment promotion and mutual protection agreements is to provide comfort and confidence to investors of both sides,” Cristobal said.

The Trade Department is also working out bilateral trade agreements with Chile, the European Union and the European Free Trade Association.

Chile proposed to create an FTA with the Philippines. The Trade Department said it expected to sign the agreement by end2015 or early 2016.

Jobs fair. Labor undersecretary Reydeluz Conferido (fifth from right) leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony during the opening of the job and

livelihood fair on May 1 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. With Conferido are other officials of the Labor Department, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. and Philippine Association of Legitimate Service Contractors.

EDC plans to borrow P5b to finance exploration

By Alena Mae S. Flores ENERGY Development Corp., a unit of First Gen Corp., plans to borrow P5 billion to fund geothermal steamfield exploration projects.

EDC vice president for corporate finance Erwin Avante told reporters at the sidelines of the stockholders’ meeting the company planned to borrow from local banks to fund exploration for the Bacman geothermal plants and the Mindanao 3 power projects.

“We plan to raise financing for the P5 billion within two to three months. The P5 billion is around 70 percent of the project cost,” Avante said.

He said once the steamfield exploration showed positive results, EDC would put up new power

plants.

“If we proceed with a power plant for Bacman 3, we’re looking a separate facility for that,” Avante said. He said the EDC would have to raise $150 million for the construction of a 30-MW Bacman 3.

The Bacman 3 power project is located in Bacon, Sorsogon Province and Manito, Albay. The other Bacman plants are the 120-MW Bacman 1 and 20-MW Bacman 2.

“We also continue to explore and develop expansion areas in our existing geothermal sites,” EDC president Richard Tantoco said.

He said the Bacman plants helped drive EDC’s revenues which climbed 20 percent in 2014 to P30.9 billion.

Tantoco said the company expected modest net income gains this year although revenues would

be higher. “[Net income this year] is better than last year but it’s not realistic to expect similar 40-percent increase than last year,” he said. “We are looking at modest gains.”

The company posted recurring net income attributable to EDC of P9.2 billion last year, up 40 percent from 2013.

Avante said EDC’s recurring net income attributable to parent might be flat or slightly higher this year “but again, it depends on how we manage our open given that we have several initiatives to typhoon proof our units and continue restoration of those damaged by prior typhoons.”

EDC lost P1 billion in revenues last year due to a series of typhoons. The company is now putting in place solutions to miti-

gate the impact of typhoons on its facilities.

The company expects revenues of P4.5 billion from the Bacman plants this year while the 150MW Burgos wind project is seen to contribute less than P2 billion.

EDC said it expected the Nasulo geothermal power project to contribute around P800 million to P900 million in revenues this year for 20 MW of capacity although its impact to the bottom-line was affected by the lower rates it offered to consumers.

Tantoco said the move to offer lower prices to consumers cost the company P911 million in the short term “but will provide stable revenue streams in the future.”

EDC’s power portfolio includes geothermal, hydro, wind and solar power projects totaling 1,441 MW as of end-2014.

Pepsi’s net profit rises 41% to P192m

By Jenniffer B. Austria SOFTDRINKS maker Pepsi Cola Products Philippines Inc. said first-quarter net income climbed 41 percent to P192 million from P135.6 million in the same period last year, as the company focused on revenue management.

PCPPI said in a financial statement filed with the Philippine Stock Exchange gross sales increased 13.5 percent to P7.3 billion in the first quarter from P6.44 billion a year ago, marking the three quarters in a row where revenue growth was ahead of volume expansion.

First-quarter net sales climbed 14.7 percent to P6.25 billion from P5.48 billion a year earlier.

Net sales from carbonated soft drink amounted to 4.59 billion in the first quarter, up 14.2 percent year-on-year while net sales from non-carbonated beverages hit P1.66 billion, or 13.7 percent higher than P1.46 billion recorded in the first quarter of 2014.

Cost of goods sold increased 12 percent in the quarter, driven mainly by volume growth and higher depreciation and amortization.

Operating expenses, as a percentage of sales, remained at par with last year’s first quarter.

“The company will continue with its long term strategy of sustained distribution and manufacturing investments supported by marketing programs to continue growth momentum,” PCPPI said.

PCPPI said it allocated P977 million in capital expenditures in the first quarter primarily on manufacturing, marketing and distribution of assets.

PCPPI is a licensed bottler of PepsiCo Inc. and Pepsi Lipton International Limited in the Philippines.

It manufactures a range of carbonated soft drinks and noncarbonated beverages that include well-known brands PepsiCola, 7Up, Mountain Dew, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana/ Twister, Lipton, Sting, Propel, Milkis and Let’s Be. The company also plans to venture into snack food business with the establishment of P650million manufacturing facility to be operational by the second half of the year.

W E D N E S D AY : M AY 6 , 2 0 1 5

BUSINESS business@thestandard.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

Unhappy people ADMIT IT—like millions of other Filipinos, you’re having difficulty moving on with the outcome of last Sunday’s “Fight of the Century” where the Moneyman Floyd Mayweather Jr. was handed the unified championship belt via a controversial and much-booed unanimous decision over Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. If Gallup were to conduct its survey today on the world’s happiest citizens, Filipinos will be nowhere near the Top 10, what with most everyone either fuming or feeling dejected.

Floyd has now been given the dubious moniker of “Fake of the Century” for dancing and hugging his way to victory, while memes and comments over social media blasted the “Scam of the Century” with people commenting that they wanted to watch a boxing match, not ballroom dancing or marathon. Adding to the fury are conspiracy theories that the fight was rigged in favor of Mayweather (who almost always gets a virtual tap on the wrist for domestic abuse/violence and was once allowed out of prison by the judge because Las Vegas would lose millions of $$$ if he failed to show up for a previously scheduled fight) after revelations that the judges entered the scores for the fighters in the wrong columns.

Pacquiao was in the red corner while Mayweather was in blue, but all judges’ scorecards erroneously (?) labeled the American as being in the red corner.

Many who watched including Evander Holyfield, thought Manny was the winner in that rather ho-hum fight. Well, Manny also thought he won the fight, but the Nevada judges thought otherwise. Was the Filipino champ robbed? Opinion is divided with some saying Manny knew the kind of fight he was getting himself into since Mayweather is a “technical” fighter who would use his reach advantage to the hilt, and would not hesitate to use all kinds of dirty tricks to give him the upper hand. No gentleman in the ring, that one.

Adding to the unhappiness are reports that the Sarangani Congressman (and future presidentiable?) would be out of commission until 2016 (February at the earliest) due to an injury on his right shoulder, for which he will go under the knife. The shoulder injury which Manny reportedly sustained during training might even lead to legal problems because his (controversial) adviser Michael Koncz allegedly failed to disclose the injury or condition in a pre-fight medical questionnaire.

Whether the omission was deliberate because it was too late or because the Pacquiao camp was afraid the information would be leaked to the Mayweather camp are questions that beg for clear answers. Meantime, excuse us because we’re going to enroll in a marathon training program. Who knows, it might turn us into the next paperweight champion for which we will earn oodles of cash.

Bra thieves now video sensations A video showing two women taking dozens of bras from a Victoria’s Secret store in Pennsylvania is getting a lot of views. The surveillance video was posted by the Wilkes-Barre Township Police along with a request for any information leading to the identification of the females. (http://www. inquisitr.com/2055374/victorias-secret-thieves-2-women-steal145-bras-worth-7700-video/) According to reports, it’s not the first time that the store was burgled, with the latest heist bringing the total of stolen bras to 145 valued at $7,700 in the last two months. The “bombshell bras” appear to be a favorite and we’re not actually surprised because the bra models popularized by Kylie Jenner (the same one who inspired the “Kylie Jenner Challenge” where teenage girls who don’t know any better suck on a shot glass to have the same kind of pouty lips) promise to instantly lift ladies assets up two full sizes. Interesting…

••• For comments, reactions, photos, stories and related concerns, readers may email to happyhourtoday2012@ yahoo.com. You may also visit and like our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/happyhourmanilastandard.

We’d be very happy to hear from you. Cheers!

B5

Nickel Asia’s Q1 income up 281%

By Anna Leah E. Gonzales

NICKEL Asia Corp., the largest nickel mining company in the Philippines, said unaudited net income jumped 281 percent in the first quarter of 2015 from a year ago, led by higher volume of shipments and prices during the period.

Nickel Asia said in a disclosure to the stock exchange net income in the January-March period hit P675.8 million, up from P177.1 million in the same period last year.

Nickel Asia said the firstquarter profit included P140.3 million in equity income from its 22.5-percent investment in Taganito HPAL Nickel Corp. and P72.5 million from a 10-percent equity interest in Coral Bay Nick-

el Corp.

Equity income in THPAL amounted to P11.7 million last year, as the newly commissioned plant was undergoing fine-tuning while there was no equity contribution from CBNC, as the company’s direct equity interest took effect in April 2014.

Nickel Asia said earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization amounted to

P1.56 billion in the three-month period, up from P795.5 million it booked a year ago.

Revenues in the first quarter climbed to P3.12 billion from P1.70 billion last year, on higher sales volumes and prices.

Nickel Asia sold 3.49 million wet metric tons of nickel ore in the three-month period, higher than 2.65 million WMT sold in the same period last year.

The Taganaan and Cagdianao mines shipped 160,000 WMT and 50,000 WMT of nickel ore, respectively, as a result of a shorter rainy season in the south of the country.

It said of the total volume of ore sold, deliveries to the two HPAL plants reached 1.99 million WMT, compared to 1.80 million WMT during the same period last year.

Melco’s license. City of Dreams Manila became the first operator in Entertainment City to receive a

regular gaming license from state-run Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. Shown receiving the license is Melco Crown Entertainment co-chairman and chief executive Lawrence Ho (left) from Pagcor president and chief operating officer Jorge Sarmiento. Melco is the operator of City of Dreams Manila in Paranaque City.

Exporters bullish on 10% growth target

By Othel V. Campos THE country’s largest group of exporters has expressed optimism exports will grow as much as 10 percent this year, on rising demand from Japan and Southeast Asian economies.

“We still have a fighting chance to reach 8 to 10 percent [growth in exports] this year. We are not revising as of now. There’s no reason to revise,” Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. president Sergio Ortiz-Luiz said.

Luiz said the problems in other markets such as Europe, the US and China might be offset by the growing demand of Japan and other Asean countries.

He said second-quarter exports were expected to improve, “because electronics is performing well and may carry

the ball for exports.”

The furniture sector also showed promising results, along with mining, metals and services, he said.

The Trade Department earlier predicted that exports might slow down and might not exceed the 10-percent growth projection, due to stronger foreign exchange in favor of the Philippine peso.

It said exports might grow slower than initially anticipated, because of severe depreciation of the Japanese yen and the European currencies.

Exports to the US are less likely to be affected due to the minimal movement of the dollar against the peso, it said.

The Trade Department advised exporters to add value to their products to command better prices.

PhilExport said the oil price rollbacks would have little effect on the growth in exports.

The group expressed concern it might only get half of the proposed P1.7-billion export development fund from the government.

The fund has been endorsed to the Budget Department for approval and will be released through the Trade Department once approved.

“We’re not expecting that the entire fund will be released. And if it will see approval, we surmise that the fund might be redirected to finance other projects of the DTI,” he said.

The export promotion fund is a public-private fund established to by the Export Development Council to provide supplemental financing for promotion and development of Philippine exports.

B6

WEDNESDAY: MAY 6, 2015

BUSINESS business@thestandard.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

IN BRIEF PAL flies to Jinjiang

PHILIPPINE Airlines has expanded its operations in China, targeting a huge number of Chinese-Filipino in Jinjiang.

The airline owned by tobacco tycoon Lucio Tan said it started flying to Jinjiang on April 25, its seventh destination in China after Beijing, Shanghai, Xiamen, Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Macau.

Jinjiang was PAL’s 37th international destination and 67th overall.

“I am proud to announce the latest addition to the national flag carrier’s international network--Jinjiang City. With a huge number of Chinese-Filipinos tracing their origin to this part of China, the new PAL service provides them a convenient link to ‘home’,” PAL president and chief operating officer Jaime Baustista said.

Majority of ethnic Chinese-Filipinos trace their roots to Fujian province. More than 80 percent them have ancestral ties in Jinjiang, which is part of Quangzhou City, Fujian province.

PAL reported a comprehensive income of $85 million in the first quarter this year, a reversal of the $20.7-million net loss booked in the same period last year.

Darwin G. Amojelar

OWWA anniversary. Employees of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration pose with Labor Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz,

along with former Labor secretary Marianito Roque, OWWA aministrator Rebecca Calzado and the OWWA board members during the celebration of the agnecy’s recent 33rd anniversary at the OWWA building in Pasay City.

BPI bullish, to hike investment in stocks THE second-largest Philippine money manager is taking advantage of the worst month for the country’s stocks since 2013 to add holdings, betting that improved company earnings will trigger a recovery.

he’s overweight. The country’s stock gauge, southeast Asia’s best performer in 2015 even after a 2.8-percent loss in April, will probably rise as much as 4.9 percent this year from Monday’s close as earnings growth more than doubles, he said. The gauge Smith Chua, chief investment says he’s adding to holdings of gained 1.3 percent at the close of officer of BPI Asset Mangement consumer, power and property trading Tuesday. of Bank of the Philippine Islands, companies, sectors on which Investors pulled $203 million out of Philippine stocks in Municipalit y of Sugpon, Ilocos Sur April, the only Asian mar_________________________ ket tracked by Bloomberg Purchase of Solid Waste Equipment(Mini Dumptruck & Bulldozer) to register net sales by forBalbalayang, Sugpon, I. Sur eigners during the month.

The outflows coincided with unprecedented inIN VIT A T ION T O BID flows into exchange-traded Th e Muni c i pal Gov ernme n t o f S u g p o n , I lo c o s S u r , t h r o u g h it s Bi d s a n d Aw a r d s Co m mi ttee (B A C ), i nv i tes s u p p lie r s / c o n t r a c t o r s t o b id f o r t h e h e r e u n d e r co n tr a ct: funds tracking Chinese companies in Hong Kong.

Na m e of C ontrac t : P URCHAS E OF SOLID W AST E M A N A GEM EN T E Q UI P M E NT ( M i n i - Du mp t r u c k & B u lld o ze r) While the withdrawals out L o ca ti on : S u g p o n , I lo c o s S u r Br i e f Des c ri pti on : P URCHAS E of the Philippines have Ap p r o ved B udget fo r th e C ontrac t : Php 4,500,000.00 weighed on local shares, Co n tr ac t D urati on : 31 Ca le n d a r Da y s Chua says global investors Pr o sp e c ti v e bi dders s ho u ld p o s s e s a v a lid L ic e n s e a p p lic a b l e to th e co n tr a ct, h a ve c ompl eted a s i mi l a r c o n t r a c t wit h a v a lu e o f a t le a s t 5 0 % o f th e ABC , a n d will turn into buyers if eqh a ve key pers onnel and e q u ip m e n t ( lis t e d in t h e E lig ib ilit y F o r m s) a va i l a b l e fo r th e uities fall further. p ro se c uti on of the c ontra c t . T h e B A C will u s e n o n - d is c r e t io n ar y p a ss/fa i l cr i te r i a i n th e Eli gi bi l i ty C hec k /S c re e n in g a s we ll a s t h e P r e lim in a r y E x am i n a ti o n o f Bi d s. T h e “This is a temporary corBAC wi l l c onduc t pos t-qu a lif ic a t io n o f t h e lo we s t c a lc u la t e d bi d . rection,” said Chua, who All p arti c ul ars rel ati v e t o E lig ib ilit y S t a t e m e n t a n d S c r ee n i n g , Bi d Se cu r i ty, Pe rfo r manc e S ec uri ty , P r e - B id d in g Co n f e r e n c e ( s ) , E v a lu a ti o n o f Bi d s, Po sthelps oversee about $14 bilQu a l i fi c ati on and A w ard o f Co n t r a c t s h a ll b e g o v e r n e d b y t h e p e r ti n e n t p r o vi si o n s o f R . A . 9184 and i ts Imp le m e n t in g Ru le s a n d Re g u la t io n ( I RR ) . lion in assets at BPI. “There Th e sc hedul es of B A C act iv it ie s a r e lis t e d , a s f o llo ws : are still many offshore inActivities Schedule vestors who are waiting for 1. P r e - P r o c u r e m e nt C o n f e r e n c e M ay 4, 2 015 2 . A d ve r t i s e m e nt / Po s t i n g o f I nv i t a t i o n t o B i d M ay 6 -13 , 2 015 reasonable levels to come 3 . I s s u a n c e o f B i d D o c u m e nt s M ay 6 -2 6 , 2 015 4. P r e - B i d C o n f e r e n c e M ay 14, 2 015 into the Philippines.”

5 . El i g i b i l i t y C h e c k , S u b m i s s i o n & Re c e i pt o f B i d s M ay 2 6 , 2 015 6 . B i d Eva l u a t i o n M ay 2 9, 2 015 The Philippine stock in7. Po s t Q u a l i f i c a t i o n M ay 2 9, 2 015 8 . A p p r ova l o f Re s o l u t i o n / I s s u a n c e o f N o t i c e o f Awa r d M ay 2 9, 2 015 / J u n e1, 2 015 dex may fall as low as 7,400 9. C o nt r a c t P r e p a r a t i o n & S i g n i n g J u n e 1, 2 015 / J u n e 2 , 2 015 if more funds are taken out 10 . A p p r ova l o f C o nt r a c t by h i g h e r a u t h o r i t y J u n e 2 , 2 015 11. I s s u a n c e o f N o t i c e t o P r o c e e d J u n e 3 , 2 015 for investment in Chinese A co m pl ete s et of bi ddi ng d o c u m e n t s a n d o t h e r d e t a ile d in f o r ma ti o n m a yb e a cq u i r e d equities, Chua said. Still, the fro m the B A C S ec retari a t , M u n ic ip a l Ha ll S u g p o n , I lo c o s Su r . Al l p r o sp e cti ve b i d d e r s s hal l be c harged a n o n - r e f u n d a b le f e e f o r t h e B id d in g D o cu m e n ts, p u r su a n t index won’t stay there for to th e l ates t gui del i nes is s u e d t h e G P P B , in t h e a m o u n t o f F i ve T h o u sa n d Pe so s ( P hp 5 ,000.00) onl y . long as other investors are Th e B A C as s umes no resp o n s ib ilit y wh a t s o e v e r t o c o m p e n s a t e o r i n d e m n i fy b i d d e r s waiting for an opportunity. fo r a n y ex pens es i nc urre d in t h e p r e p a r a t io n o f t h e b id .

There are also no strong inApproved by: dications that the Philippine ( S g d . ) V I RG I L I O B . A B A A G economy has been derailed B A C Cha i r m a n (TS-MAY 6, 2015) from its growth path, he

said.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index’s April loss was its first monthly decline this year and the worst since December 2013.

The gauge climbed 1.3 percent to 7,816.44 on Monday, taking its valuation to 18.9 times its 12-month projected earnings. While that’s lower than this year’s peak of 19.8 times, it’s still the highest among Asian benchmarks, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

“Poor first-quarter earnings could extend the outflow of overseas funds and losses in the stock market,” Jonathan Ravelas, chief market strategist at BDO Unibank Inc. in Manila, said by phone Monday. “The valuations have to be justified by earnings and so far we haven’t seen anything exceptional.”

Chua expects earnings growth to accelerate, with full-year profits climbing as much as 14 percent, more than double the rate of 6 percent for 2014. Economic growth will also probably exceed last year’s rate of 6.1 percent, he said.

“Our fundamentals remain quite strong, while those outside of the Philippines remain uncertain,” Chua said.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. in a report Tuesday reiterated the Philippines as one of four “key overweight” markets in the Asian region excluding Japan.

“The Philippines’ ability to consistently deliver on growth underpins our recommendation to be overweight on that market,” analyst Adrian Mowat wrote.

Century Pacific nets P438m

CENTURY Pacific Food Inc., the largest canned food company in the Philippines owned by the Po family, registered a net income of P438 million in the first three months of the year, up 37 percent from P320 million year-on-year.

Century Pacific in a disclosure to the stock exchange attributed the positive first-quarter income performance on strong sales demand, accumulated effect of price increases, favorable raw materials costs and lower financing costs.

Consolidated net revenue in the three months ending March 2015 totalled P5.24 billion, up 16 percent from a year ago, on higher sales volumes.

“Strong sales demand was generated by the success of various marketing campaigns that strengthened brand visibility and positioning during the period. An distribution push in regional areas and favorable macro-economic conditions also boosted sales,” Century Pacific said.

Consolidated operating income reached P615 million, up 11.4 percent, while net income margin increased eight percent, reflecting higher gross profits and lower financing costs.

Jenniffer B. Austria

Neda gets rehab body

THE Office of the President transferred the functions of the Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery to the National Economic and Development Authority to ensure the implementation of the government’s recovery and rehabilitation efforts.

Neda secretary Arsenio Balicasan said “these functions are well within Neda’s mandate as the government’s development planning and policy coordinating body.”

The Office of the President issued Memorandum Order No. 79 transferring the functions of the Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery to Neda.

“These functions are well within Neda’s mandate as the government’s development planning and policy coordinating body. As the vice-chair for rehabilitation and recovery of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Neda has been involved from the start in the post-disaster operations for Typhoon Yolanda,” he said.

Alena Mae S. Flores

Otto taps Maersk drillship

OTTO Energy Ltd. of Australia has signed a contract with Maersk Drilling to secure the Maersk Venturer ultra-deep water ship to drill the Hawkeye-1 well prospect in July to August this year.

“Final preparations for the drilling of the Hawkeye-1 exploration well are considerably advanced. This is a very exciting time for Otto as we undertake this important and potentially high impact, drilling event on behalf of the Philippines Department of Energy and our joint venture partners. With a significant free carried interest, Hawkeye-1’s success would be transformational for Otto,” Matthew Allen, Otto chief executive officer, said in a statement.

Otto estimated the reserves of Hawkeye prospect at 112 million barrels of oil, or 74 million barrels net to Otto.

The company said the success at Hawkeye would unlock a significant new hydrocarbon play in the deep water Southern Palawan region.

The Maersk Venturer is one of the most modern and advanced drill ships in the world. Alena Mae S. Flores

w e d n e s d aY : M aY 6 , 2 0 1 5

WORLD

cesar barrioquinto EDITOR

editorial@thestandard.com.ph

B7

Jakarta: No more maids to Mideast JAKARTA—Indonesia will stop sending new domestic workers to 21 Middle Eastern countries, reports said Tuesday, after the recent execution of two Indonesian women in Saudi Arabia angered Jakarta.

The ban affects countries including Saudi Arabia—a major destination for Indonesian maids— United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Egypt, and will come into effect in three months’ time, Manpower Minister Hanif Dhakiri was cited as saying in local media.

Jakarta, which has long complained about the treatment of Indonesian maids in the Middle East, had already placed a moratorium on sending new helpers to Saudi Arabia in 2011 following the beheading of a worker.

The new move is meant to be permanent. Maids already working in the affected countries will be allowed to stay and continue in their positions.

Indonesia’s anger at the executions of its citizens abroad comes despite the fact that Jakarta last week executed seven foreign drug convicts, drawing a storm of international protest.

“According to the law, the government has the right to stop the placement of migrant workers in particular countries if it is believed that their employment degrades human values and the dignity of the nation,” Dhakiri was quoted as saying by state-run news agency Antara.

He said there were “many problems” with Indonesians working abroad related to “labor norms and human rights violations”.

Dhakiri cited the execution of Indonesian domestic workers Siti Zainab and Karni binti Medi Tarsim, who were both put to death for murder just days apart in April.

The foreign ministry summoned the Saudi ambassador to Indonesia after both executions, complaining Jakarta had not been informed beforehand. AFP

Obama says bye to retiring comic WASHINGTON—No stranger to late night American TV, President Barack Obama bid farewell Monday to David Letterman, a retiring comic heavyweight beloved by US night owls.

Obama, himself finishing his second and final term in office, addressed the recent riots in Baltimore, a Pacific trade pact he is trying to push through Congress, and thoughts on his post-presidential future in his eighth and final interview with CBS’s Letterman on the “Late Show.”

Letterman, admitting to jitters over interviewing the US president, said there are days when he looks at his schedule after he wakes up and thinks, “Oh, God.” Obama joked: “Are you saying that is how you felt this morning? This interview isn’t starting well.”

Just days after his wife Michelle appeared on the same show as Letterman prepares to retire late this month after 33 years on the air, Obama both sparred playfully and talked serious policy stuff in the roughly hour-long chat.

“First of all, I know you like Michelle a bit more than me,” Obama said of his wife, who has appeared on the Letterman show four or five times, according to Letterman.

Letterman, 68, noted that on that show the first lady was accompanied by a Marine Corps band led by “a guy in a huge bear-skin hat.”

AFP

Guest of honor. French President Francois Hollande talks with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef during a meeting in Riyadh on May 5. Hollande is the guest of honor of the Gulf Cooperation Council summit in Riyadh, where security issues in the region are going to be discussed. AFP

Ailing Thai king makes rare public appearance B A N G KO K—T h a i land’s revered but ailing King Bhumibol Adulyadej made a rare public appearance on Tuesday, leaving the hospital where he has been convalescing for much of the past few months.

A heavily guarded convoy carrying the w h e e l c h a i r- b o u n d , 87-year-old monarch left Bangkok’s Siriraj Hospital for the Grand Palace, the sprawling complex in the heart of the old quarter that is the seat of the Chakri dynasty.

The palace visit was made on Coronation Day, a Thai public holi-

day that marks Bhumibol’s official coronation in 1950, three years after his reign began following the death of his brother.

The appearance of the world’s longestserving monarch after a recent no-show will be a source of relief for many Thais who revere him as a semi-divine figure.

He had been expected to appear publicly for his birthday in December, a time when the monarch traditionally addresses his people. But the audience was canceled at the last minute on the advice of his doctors.

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION MAKATI CITY BRANCH 136 IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF LUCY DOMINIQUE LLAMZON

Most Thais have only known King Bhumibol on the throne, and anxiety over the future once his six-decade reign ends is seen as an aggravating factor in Thailand’s bitter political divide.

King Bhumibol, formally known as Rama IX, has spent most of the past few months in

ORDER A verified Petition for Adoption was filed in Court on March 24, 2015 by the Sps. Raymond C. Delos Santos and Cheryl L. De Leon Delos Santos. Petitioners desire to adopt 8-year old Lucy Dominique Llamzon “Lucy”, daughter of petitioner Cheryl L. De Leon Delos Santos from a previous relationship without the benefit of marriage. The minor’s biological father, Benjamin P. Llamzon, executed a written consent to this adoption. Even before her marriage to Raymond, Cheryl wanted to make legitimate her parental relationship with her daughter, Lucy. In turn, petitioner Raymond cared for and consistently treated Lucy as if she was his own offspring. From their marriage, petitioners have supported Lucy, raised her as their legitimate child, and paid for her education and living expenses. Petitioners aver that they have undergone pre-adoption services and that this adoption would promote the best interest of the child. They further aver that they have all the qualifications and none of the disqualifications to adopt.

Petitioners pray that judgment be rendered declaring the minor to be their legitimate child and direct the concerned civil registrar to cancel the minors existing birth certificate and issue a new birth certificate, changing the minor’s name Lucy Dominique Llamzon to “Lucy Dominique De Leon De Los Santos.”

REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS

J.P. Rizal St. corner F. Zobel St., Makati City Tel. No. 870-1000 Fax No. 899-8988 www.makati.gov.ph

INVITATION TO BID

The petitioner is required to cause the publication of this Order in a newspaper of general circulation to be determined through raffle, once a week for three (3) successive weeks before the abovescheduled hearing.

The Court Social Worker is DIRECTED to conduct case study and submit a report within 30 days from notice.

SO ORDERED. Makati City, March 30, 2015.

(Sgd.) RICO SEBASTIAN D. LIWANAG Presiding Judge

(TS-Apr. 29, May 6 & 13, 2015)

NAME OF PROJECT AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

NO. 1 2 1.

Tarpaulin Cover for Public Assistance and other government affairs within the vicinity of Makati City Close Combat Optic and Mounts and other equipment for the use of Makati City Police Station Special Reaction Unit (SRU)

APPROVED BUDGET IMPLEMENTING FOR THE CONTRACT OFFICE (ABC) OM

P3,304,899.00

OM

P2,058,030.00

The MAKATI CITY GOVERNMENT, through its Bids and Awards Committee (BAC), invites interested bidders to apply for eligibility and to bid for the above projects, with Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) indicated, inclusive of all taxes, such as, but not limited to, value added tax (VAT), income tax, local taxes and other fiscal levies.

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

2.

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

3.

Bidding is restricted to Filipino citizens/sole proprietorships, partnerships, or organizations with at least sixty percent (60%) interest or outstanding capital stock belonging to citizens of the Philippines, and to citizens or organizations of a country the laws or regulations of which grant similar rights or privileges to Filipino citizens, pursuant to RA 5183 and subject to Commonwealth Act 138.

4.

A complete set of Bidding Documents will be available one (1) day after posting / publication of the above projects up to Closing Date (before the deadline of the submission of bids),weekdays only from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from the address below and upon payment of a non-refundable fee for the Bidding Documents in the amount stated on the issued order of payment to the City Government of Makati Cashier.

5.

The BAC will hold a Pre-Bid Conference on May 12, 2015 (02:00 P.M.) at PiodelPilar Conference Room, 21st floor, New Makati City Hall Building, F. Zobel Street, Brgy.

Poblacion, Makati City to discuss Eligibility Requirements and the Technical and Financial Components of these projects. However, only those interested Bidders who have purchased the Bidding Documents are allowed to raise and submit queries or clarifications regarding the Bidding Documents.

6.

Deadline of Submission of Bids shall be on or before May 26, 2015 (02:00 P.M.), at PiodelPilar Conference Room, 21st floor, New Makati City Hall Building, F. Zobel Street, Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City.

Opening of Bids shall be on May 26, 2015 (02:00 P.M.), at PiodelPilar Conference Room, 21st floor, New Makati City Hall Building, F. Zobel Street, Brgy. Poblacion, Makati City.

The Court finds the Petition to be sufficient in form and substance.

WHEREFORE, notice is hereby given that this case is set for hearing of June 18 and July 23, 2015, both at 9:00 a.m. at this Family Court located at the 12th Floor, Makati City Hall, at which date, time and place, all interested persons may appear and be heard.

Hundreds of Thais gathered outside of Siriraj on Tuesday, many waving flags and dressed in the royal colour yellow, an AFP photographer on the scene said.

When the king’s convoy passed many burst into applause and shouted of “Long Live the King!” AFP

LUNGSOD NG MAKATI Bids and Awards Committee

SP. PROC CASE NO. M-7788 (2015)

SPS. RAYMOND C. DELOS SANTOS and CHERYL L. DE LEON-DELOS SANTOS, Petitioners. x----- --------------------------x

hospital after undergoing an operation to remove his gall bladder in October.

In the past two months Bhumibol had made two brief trips from his hospital bed, one in early May to a nearby palace and one last month to view the Chao Praya river that runs through Bangkok.

7.

Bids will be opened in the presence of the Bidders’ representatives who choose to attend at the said address. All Bids must be accompanied by a bid security in any of the acceptable forms and in the amount stated in ITB Clause 18. Late bids shall not be accepted.

8.

The MAKATI CITY GOVERNMENT reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, to annul the bidding process, to reject all bids at any time prior to contract award, or to reduce the corresponding ABC and Terms of Reference (TOR), without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.

For further information, please visit or contact: BAC SECRETARIAT OFFICE Makati City Government 9th Floor, New Makati City Hall Building F. Zobel Street, Brgy.Poblacion, Makati City Tel. No. 870-1000 loc. 1331; Fax No. 899-8988 website: www.makati.gov.ph (Sgd.) MS. VISSIA MARIE P. ALDON Chairperson

(TS-MAY 6, 2015)

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cesAr bArrioquinto EDITOR

editorial@thestandard.com.ph

world

NY party kowtows to China NEW YORK—China’s march towards global ascendancy has taken another leap forward— at least when it comes to New York high society and its most glittering fashion extravaganza, the Met Ball.

Hong Kong veterans fight past colonizers HONG KONG—Hong Kong military veterans who served in the British armed forces are going into battle against their former colonial ruler over their right to live in Britain.

With some locals increasingly anxious about Beijing’s encroaching influence in Hong Kong, the veterans have become the latest group to put pressure on Britain to provide an escape route.

Three Hong Kong military veterans who say they were “abandoned” when the city was handed back to China in 1997 have applied for full British passports in a test case backed by some British members of parliament.

A petition for right of abode, which has garnered hundreds of signatures from ex-servicemen, has also been handed to 10 Downing Street in London, the official residence and office of the British prime minister.

“This is a right we deserve,” 50-year-old former Royal Military Police officer Harry Wong, one of the three passport applicants, told AFP. “We want to get back what is fair.”

Wong says he applied for a British passport before the handover, but was unsuccessful.

Five hundred armed forces personnel were given British passports in the 1990s based on a points system—but others were left behind, with campaigners saying the lower ranks were overlooked.

Former army dog handler Alain Lau, 52, said he was told by a local senior officer that he would not qualify for a passport.

AFP

Premiere. Actress

McKaley Miller attends the premiere of Roadside Attractions’ & Godspeed Pictures’ “Where Hope Grows” at The ArcLight Cinemas on May 4 in Hollywood, California. AFP

Australia urged to crack down on exploiters SYDNEY—Australia faced growing calls Tuesday to crack down on the exploitation of migrants laboring in farms and factories, after a television investigation claimed foreigners toiled in conditions akin to “slave labor”.

Using footage from secret cameras, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation found migrants were being paid well under the legal minimum and working up to 18 hours a day in harsh conditions.

“There’s slave labor in this country,” National Party member of parliament Keith Pitt told the Four Corners program about workers picking and packing foods for supermarket shelves.

“It’s something we need to get rid of.”

The program interviewed young workers who were thousands of dollars underpaid, in some cases earning less than the minimum wage on their latenight and early-morning shifts.

In one instance, a group of laborers from Hong Kong and Taiwan picking cucumbers in Queensland were being paid A$13-14 (US$10.19-10.97) an hour for backbreaking work while Australian workers doing the same job were paid more than A$20.

“I’ve thought this is very unfair ever since I came here,” said one tearful worker from Hong Kong,

where the minimum wage is equivalent to A$5.31 an hour.

Workers employed under unscrupulous labor contractors in Australia were also toiling under false names and in the case of vulnerable women, faced sexual harassment, said the report which focused on exploitation in several states including Victoria.

Natalie Hutchins, Victoria’s industrial relations minister, said the state government was forming a committee to conduct an inquiry aimed at cracking down on illegal operators and would push for a national response.

“This is not just about the underpayment of wages—this is

about creating an underclass of foreign workers,” she posted on her Facebook site.

“The Victorian government will also advocate for a national response to what is a national shame.”

Pitt also called for the government to fund a task force to go undercover to investigate the exploitation of workers to “try to crack down on this”.

“I would think you would find that there’s effectively a whole heap of crooks making an awful lot of money out of the exploitation of a whole lot of people who really don’t know any different,” he told the ABC. AFP

The city’s party of the year, attended by A-list film stars, singers and models, the richest moguls and most feted fashion designers, has chosen China as the theme of its 2015 bash at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on Monday.

For Chinese actress Li Bingbing— ”so excited” to be going for the first time—it shows that Western attitudes towards her country, for so long a communist bogeyman in the United States, are beginning to change.

“Nowadays China is the hot topic,” she told AFP in an interview at her luxury hotel before embarking on three hours of preparation with an army of assistants she acknowledges is needed to grace the red carpet.

“People love to talk about China, people are curious and want to know the interest in Chinese culture,” she adds in hesitant, but exuberant English.

The ball is the annual fund raiser for the museum’s Costume Institute and kicks off the exhibition “China: Through the Looking Glass,” which explores Chinese influences on Western fashion.

It positions haute couture from some of the world’s most celebrated designers alongside works of Chinese art, with the focus on Imperial China, 1920-40s Shanghai and the People’s Republic of China.

The ravishing 42-year-old actress Li, who opted to wear Christian Dior haute couture, is delighted that China is the theme, pointing to the wealth in Chinese history and how much it can still be misunderstood in America.

She tells of encountering stereotypes as recently as promoting 2011 film “Snow Flower and the Secret Fan” in the United States.

“I met some Americans. You know what, they thought nowadays that Chinese women still have feet binding,” she said.

“It’s completely a huge change in China now. Women in China are very, very independent and capable and hard working.”

All that makes China a fastgrowing luxury market for designer clothes. Vogue China is celebrating its 10th anniversary, for which Li was photographed by Mario Testino on the eve of the ball.

Hollywood is also opening its doors to China.

Li played a Chinese scientist in 2014 blockbuster “Transformers: Age of Extinction,” which grossed $320 million at the box office in China, eclipsing the $245 million made in the United States. AFP

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BAMBINA OLIVARES WISE EDITOR

g l w e e ke n d @ g m a i l . c o m

LIFE

LUXURY

ROYAL REVOLUTION Audemars Piguet makes a splash in Milan

A

udemars Piguet recently hosted a big party with a “Revolutionary” theme in Milan for the Expo to launch the new Royal Oak Chronograph Limited Edition.

The setting was the astonishing Cinema Manzoni in the heart of Milan. Completely reworked for this occasion, it featured amazing live performances, with celebrated French DJ

Dimitri entertaining the more than 700 guests who attended the event.

On the stroke of midnight, the watch was unveiled by Olivier Audemars, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors, who declared his delight in being in Milan that night in time for the opening of Expo Milano 2016, one of the most important cultural events internationally. “I am also very proud,” he said, “to be launching the new Aude-

mars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph Limited Edition as a tribute to Milano and to Italy.”

The country has always played an important role for Audemars Piguet. “We created and launched the Royal Oak in 1972, a revolutionary product at the time – it was indeed the first stainless steel luxury sports watch to see the light of day, even more expensive than gold watches – that has become the iconic product of our brand.”

PHOTO: IMAGE.NET

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W E D N E S D AY : M AY 6 : 2 0 1 5

LIFE

BAMBINA OLIVARES WISE EDITOR

g l w e e ke n d @ g m a i l . c o m

LUXURY

MOTHER’S DAY GOES LUXE

Take Mother’s Day to the next level with an all-out luxury hotel treat

MAKE IT THE MARRIOTT With Mother’s Day just around the corner, Marriott Manila has put together a wish list of luxurious gifts to spoil your mom on her special day. Because she’s worth so much more, give her the chance to make her wishes come true.

Treat her to an unforgettable Sunday Brunch for P2,800 complete with free-flowing sparkling wine or a dinner buffet for P2,650 at Marriott Café on May 10. You can also surprise her with a lavish getaway for two from May 8 to 12, 2015 at P15,000++ inclusive of overnight stay in a deluxe room, buffet breakfast for two and P3,000 credit in Quan Spa and Cru Steakhouse. Plus, there’s a selection of premium giveaways just for her: a South Sea pearl set in 18K yellow gold from Jewelmer; super chic lippies from Tory Burch; designer shades from Oakley; posh nail art services by Extraordinail; and a three-course dinner at Cru Steakhouse.

Show her you care with a fanciful buffet experience at Marriott Café. The entire family can enjoy a vast selection, including popular dishes such as US rib eye, maple turkey, Bourbon baby back ribs, lamb salpicao, baked prawns with herbed goat cheese and pan-seared sea bass with vierge sauce. Other options include the organic salad station, sushi rolled to order, seafood bar, cheese and charcuterie, interactive teppanyaki station, and the always popular chocolate room and dessert bar! The homemade gelato, decadent desserts and chocolate goodies are the perfect ending to a celebratory brunch. Kid-approved selections are also spread throughout the buffet such as pizza, pasta and truffle mac & cheese. To add more fun, the little ones can make mocktails for their mommies, and create amusing memories in the process. Each family will be given a souvenir photo capturing the memorable moment.

For inquiries and reservations on Mother’s day offerings, call (02)9889999 or visit manilamarriott.com.

Seafood selection at Marriott Cafe

Personalized pasta dishes especially for mom at Marriott Cafe

Pamper mom at one of Marriott Manila’s deluxe rooms

T THE MOM-ME-CATION CONSPIRACY

he modern mom does everything.

She makes breakfast for the kids, takes them to school, goes to work, and is home early enough to tutor her kids and tuck them into bed at night. This is the reason why this generation’s moms are often called “supermoms.” Supermoms are quick to get things done, but despite the fact that they seem to be blessed with an endless supply of energy, even supermoms need to take a break sometimes.

Unveiling The Peninsula Manila’s MomMeCation Package, the perfect pampering package that is guaranteed to rejuvenate moms everywhere. This luxuriously indulgent treat can be enjoyed solo or with a friend, and begins with a stay in a Deluxe Room, Grand Deluxe

Room or a Premier Suite.

For downtime with a health and wellness edge, Mom can have a 60-minute supervised workout with a personal trainer, followed by a Swedish or Shiatsu massage at The Fitness Center & Spa. A companion can take advantage of a 30% discount on massage rates.

The package also includes an exclusive beauty gift from iconic luxury emporium Rustan’s Department Store, P1,000 food and beverage credit at The Lobby, and themed cocktails for a nightcap in Salon de Ning or The Lobby.

The next day, Mom gets treated to a scrumptious buffet breakfast for two in Escolta restaurant, which overlooks the outdoor pool. She could also opt for a swim after breakfast before heading back home to see the kids after a most relaxing weekend.

Valid from May until December 30, 2015, the MomMeCation Package starts at P11,500 per night in a Deluxe Room.

Prices are subject to 10% service charge and prevailing government taxes.

For inquiries or further information on The Peninsula Manila MomMeCation Room Package, please call +63 (2) 887-2888, extension 6630 (Room Reservations), e-mail reservationpmn@peninsula.com or visit the website peninsula.com.

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LIFE

BAMBINA OLIVARES WISE EDITOR

g l w e e ke n d @ g m a i l . c o m

THE MAYPAC EFFECT IN DOLLARS

BY ED BIADO

Win or lose, “the fight of the century” raked in hundreds of millions of dollars for Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather from boxscores, pay-per-view buys and other revenue sources. Because of how lucrative the rivalry is, some are speculating that a rematch is almost guaranteed.

But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s look at some of the statistics that prove that people will pay good money to see these two champions in the ring.

$18,000 The cost of the infamous Bellagio package for two nights stay at the hotel, which usually goes for $450 a night, and two tickets to the fight.

$1,600 $1,025

The average fight weekend price of standard rooms at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, which are only $270 on a regular weekend.

The average room price at the Golden Nugget, a 252-percent hike from its regular price of $377—the highest inflation rate among Las Vegas hotels

$351,000 The highest ticket price listed at secondary ticket seller StubHub for side E, rows AA to CC. It was not sold.

$40,995

The price of an actual sale on StubHub, which the company claims to be the highest amount anyone has paid for an individual event through the website.

$40,100 The winning eBay bid of an Evander Holyfield VIP package.

It includes a seat beside the former heavyweight champion at the match, a first-class roundtrip domestic flight, deluxe accommodations at MGM, dinner with Holyfield, and a year’s supply of Quest Nutrition products.

$4,600 $1,000 The average price of tickets for the “cheap” seats at the back (also known as the “nosebleed section”)

The price of a five-course dinner with unlimited beverages at Crush (at the MGM) on fight night, where diners can watch the match live via closed-circuit television.

$537 $75 The average price of getting into a viewing party of the fight within Las Vegas.

The average price of getting into a viewing party of the fight at a Southern California Indian casino.

$99 $89 The price of a pay-per-view buy in high-definition.

The price of a pay-per-view buy in standard definition.

$262

The average sale price for a ticket to the Cirque du Soleil: Michael Jackson ONE show for fight weekend. The same tickets sell for $132 on regular nights.

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THE 25 MOST POWERFUL STYLISTS IN HOLLYWOOD Jimmy Choo and the Hollywood Reporter Host the Exclusive Event

The Hollywood Reporter and Jimmy Choo announced the 2015 25 Most Powerful Stylists in Hollywood at a VIP luncheon recognizing the top stylists in entertainment. The Stylist Luncheon, which coincides with the publication of The Hollywood Reporter’s “Most Powerful Stylists” issue, took place recently.

WHO: Amy Adams (Actress, Big Eyes), Gwen Stefani (Singer & The Voice), Zoe Saldana (Actress), Olivia Munn (Actress), Emily Ratajkowski (Model & Actress), Odeya Rush (Actress), Petra Flannery (#1 on the Stylists List), Brandon Maxwell (Lady Gaga’s stylist), Sophie Lopez (stylist), Tara Swennen (stylist), and many more.

Hosted by Carol McColgin, The Hollywood Reporter’s Style

Editor, Merle Ginsberg, The Hollywood Reporter’s Senior Style Writer, and Sandra Choi, Jimmy Choo Creative Director.

WHAT: The Hollywood Reporter and Jimmy Choo co-hosted the 5th annual 25 Most Powerful Stylists Luncheon celebrating the industry’s most influential stylists.

The annual list ranks the most influential stylists working in Hollywood based on a variety of factors including their red carpet showing, the awards shows nominees they have dressed, new styles they’ve innovated, and the development of their own personal brands.

WHERE: Soho House West Hollywood “Creating looks that define their

A-list clients, these 25 stylists shape the way the world sees Hollywood beyond the big screen,” says Janice Min, co-president and chief creative officer of Guggenheim Media’s Entertainment Group. “With the Stylist Luncheon, we are once again honoring the hard work, vision, creativity and relentless drive of these talented individuals.”

“Jimmy Choo is proud to celebrate the creativity of the 25 most powerful stylists in Hollywood partnering with The Hollywood Reporter to recognize the stars behind the style of the red carpet,” says Sandra Choi, Creative Director of Jimmy Choo.

“Hollywood glamour is an integral part of the DNA of the brand and as a designer, it is fulfilling to see the Jimmy Choo product come to life through their artistic vision.”

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LIFE

BAMBINA OLIVARES WISE EDITOR

g l w e e ke n d @ g m a i l . c o m

LUXURY

Fun and functional pelican-shaped storage vessels

Cool ceramic platter, plate and bowl in blue and white stripe patterns.

One-of-a kind ceramic vases

THE EXOTIC EAST Amazing Thai Finds from L’Indochine

W

ith skills that are passed down through generations, Thai crafts have long been a reflection of the people’s creativity and ingenuity. The intricate detail and meticulous methods of Thai artisans show their inventiveness, while their elaborate designs showcase their perseverance. Moreover, the abundance of natural materials such as wicker, palm leaves, rattan, and coconuts make it possible for Thais to produce beautiful and inexpensive handicrafts.

This summer, L’Indochine takes you on an amazing adventure as it highlights exotic home finds from Thailand in its latest collection.

There are modern pieces for the home inspired by traditional Thai metalwork, ceramics and lacquer ware. Animal figurines, vases, bowls, and boxes recall the creamy white slip fine clay in the

Sukhothai and Sawanhalok tradition. Thai pottery and ceramics have always remained distinct by mixing indigenous styles with preferences for unique shapes, colors, and decorative motifs.

The Chiang Mai area, on the other hand, is best known for creating Thai lacquer ware. And today, modern Thai lacquer ware is a beautiful and inexpensive item that will add sparkle and elegance to dinner tables and home interiors.

Thailand’s creatively patterned glassware like plates with stands, pitchers and stemware will also make interesting table talk, as will stained glass candy jars. There are also intricately designed aluminum bowls and tumblers.

These amazing home finds are available at L’Indochine stores at SM Aura Premier and SM Mega Fashion Hall.

Metal-finish eggs

Wooden salad serving sets with lacquer-finish handles

Bird wall art

Pretty and functional stained glass candy jars Serve in style with these lacquer square trays

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SHOWBITZ

ISAH V. RED EDITOR

isahred @ gmail.com

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MERCEDES CABRAL GRACES DANISH FILM PREMIERE SEYMOUR BARROS SANCHEZ

S

he is known for her remarkable roles in Brillante Mendoza’s award-winning films Serbis, Kinatay, and Thy Womb, among others. Mercedes Cabral attended the premiere of the Danish film Rosita in which she stars as a Filipina mail-order bride torn between an old man and his son.

Mendoza recommended Cabral to female filmmaker Frederikke Aspöck when they met at Marrakech in Morocco. The Danish director’s feature film debut Labrador (Out of Bounds) made the rounds of international film festivals and also got favorable nods from critics worldwide.

In Rosita, Cabral is with internationally recognized Danish actors Jens Albinus, who plays the middle-aged widower Ulrik, and Mikkel Boe Følsgaard, who essays the role of his son Johannes, along with Julie Agnete Vang, Mads Riisom, Lise Baastrup, and Jacob Moth-Poulsen.

Aspöck broke onto the international film festival scene when she won the Premier Prix de la Cinéfondation in Cannes in 2004 for her short film Happy Now. She earned her master of fine arts degree in filmmaking at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts and a bachelor’s degree in theatre design at the Wimbledon School of Art in London.

Rosita, which premiered on April 16 at Copenhagen in Denmark, is Cabral’s third in-

ternational project after working with celebrated South Korean filmmaker Park Chanwook in the vampire thriller and Cannes Film Festival Jury Prize winner Thirst in 2009 and appearing alongside Hollywood star James Franco, acclaimed Chinese actress Maggie Cheung, Colin Salmon, Ingvar Eggert Siğursson, and Simon de Pury in Isaac Julien’s installation film Playtime in 2013, which was played during New Year’s Eve on an electronic billboard at Times Square in New York.

Since the story is set in a small fishing village in the northern tip of Denmark, Cabral and her manager Shandii Bacolod, also an independent filmmaker, stayed for two months in Copenhagen and the fishing town of Hirtshals, where adjustment to the weather became their major problem.

“It was winter when we went there for the shoot. It was snowing hard and we were able to experience how they shoot films in Denmark. They are very professional. They shot for eight hours a day.

Sometimes, it would only take them six hours before packing up,” Bacolod recounted.

Cabral hopes the film gets to be shown in Asia, especially in the Philippines, soon. She is also set to star in Ralston Jover’s Dog Show, Pedring Lopez’s Binhi opposite Joem Bascon, Jay Altarejos’ Love Hurts, and Alvin Yapan’s Ang Kubo sa Kawayanan opposite RK Bagatsing.

It was winter when we went there for the shoot. It was snowing hard and we were able to experience how they shoot films in Denmark. They are very professional.

They shot for eight hours a day. Sometimes, it would only take them six hours before packing up

Cabral with Danish co-stars at the film’s premiere in Denmark

– Mercedes Cabral, actor

Scenes from the Danish film Rosita with Filipino actor Mercedes Cabral

RYAN REYNOLDS’ BATTLE WITH GOOD AND EVIL

‘STAR WARS’ FANS JOIN ROAD SAFETY ADVOCACY

A

T

yala Malls Cinemas brings Ryan Reynolds’ latest offbeat role and best performance to-date in The Voices, a horror comedy flick in which where he plays a lovable but psychologically-challenged worker in a bathtub company.

Jerry (Reynolds) yearns for the company hottie’s attention, played by Gemma Arterton. With the advice of Jerry’s courtappointed psychiatrist, he pursues his crush and asks her for a date. However, their relationship suddenly takes a sudden, murderous turn after she stood him up for a date.

Jerry’s talking pets, a benevolent dog and an evil cat, lead him on a

he Philippine Garrison of the 501st, an international organization of Star Wars fans who dress up as the villains from the film franchise, supported the cause of #SaveKidsLives.org by promoting road safety messages at the “Fans of the Force” event at SM Southmall in Las Piñas on Labor Day. The event launched the

fantastical path beyond his imagination but must decide whether to keep striving for normalcy or indulge on a much more sinister path.

Directed by Marjane Satrapi, known for her bestselling autobiographical graphic novel Persepolis that was adapted into an animated film, The Voices has also bested other films in the 20th annual L’Etrange Festival where it won two awards -the Canal+ Nouveau Genre Award (the festival’s Grand Prize) and the equally prestigious Audience Award.

The Voices opens on June 3 exclusive at Ayala Malls Cinemas nationwide.

Check out www.sureseats. com for schedules.

Ryan Reynolds plays a psychologically challenged guy who pursues a woman played Gemma Arterton

celebration “May the 4th” considered Star Wars Day by fans of the franchise all over the world.

Locally, the “holiday” is spearheaded by The Philippine Garrison of the 501st.

Known as the Bad Guys Who Do Good, members of the 501st wear their costumes at events in order to raise funds for charity, especially children’s causes.

Star Wars fans join road safety advocacy

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SHOWBITZ

ISAH V. RED EDITOR

isahred @ gmail.com

GRETCHEN RENEWS WITH GLUTAMAX

Andi Eignemann is the girl who wants to keep her virginity in Your Place or Mine

Bret Jackson is they guy who thinks Andi is the perfect one-night stand

Andre Paras with Andi Eigenmann, and Bret Jackson

FROM WATTPAD SUCCESS TO ONSCREEN DISASTER WITHOUT WANG 2

BY NICKIE WANG That’s the premise of Joel Lamangan’s latest mainstream outing, which is based on yet another Wattpad series of the same title. The flick, billed as a sexy rom-com, stars Andi Eigenmann and Bret Jackson as the outlandish couple Haley and Russell.

The movie starts with Haley having the “what did I do last night” episode waking up naked on someone else’s bed with a vague recollection of what happened the night before. In time of her getting dressed a half-naked Russell comes out of the bathroom. Shocked, Haley rushed outside Russell’s apartment and heads home.

On the same day, the two bump into each other at school and finally exchanged names. They also recall what really happened why Haley ended up in Russell’s place.

A few meetings more and the two finally find comfortable at each other’s company.

As the story progresses, Haley is caught in a dilemma.

She’s beginning to like Russell when her mother (played by Jackie Lou Blanco) forces her into what they call a practical marriage (arranged marriage in other words) simply to keep the money in the family. Apparently, her father died leaving them with a billionpeso debt. The family of her husband-to-be is more than willing to pay for this debt if Haley agrees to marry of one the sons. Left with no choice, as the story suggests, Haley agrees to fulfill her father’s death wish only to find out that Russell is also the guy she is about to marry.

In most rom-com, this could have been the end of the story.

It’s the tested formula to guarantee audiences’ satisfaction.

But in Your Place or Mine’s case, this is just the first half of the story. You see, the climax came too early for some. Now, the story tries to sustain the audience’s by adding unnecessary third wheel angles, which can be removed and the plot will still flow just fine. Thus, the

inclusion of Ashley Rivera and Andre Paras is nothing but an additional embellishment to the film’s line up of pretty faces.

The film’s first 30 minutes is just fine but the next hour is boring and predictable. And the revelation in Russell’s life is totally forgettable.

But of course, they are just following the chapters in the insipid Wattpad series in chronological order. And that’s the huge challenge. All other Wattpad series turned into a feature film endeavored to remain faithful to the original material without scattering the story with a bit of creativity.

In the book, Haley is described as a teenage student who wanted to keep her virginity until marriage. Obviously, that didn’t happen when she had a one-night stand with a total stranger whom she met at a bar after drinking one too many.

Given the film’s theme, this could have been a local version of Cruel Intention. It could have been a palatable tale of young privileged people living in upscale city mansions.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE 43 45 47 49 50 51 54 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68

ANSWER FOR PREVIOUS PUZZLE ACROSS 1 Customs request 5 Move a bit 10 With, to monsieur 14 Promises to pay 15 Windy City airport 16 Zeus’ spouse 17 TVA supply 18 Kim of “Vertigo” 19 Half of zwei 20 Continental divide 22 Bark product 23 Ms. Peeples of TV

24 25 29 33 34 36 37 38 39 40 42

California fort Tucker’s partner (2 wds.)

Brushed the cat Gather “Damn Yankees” vamp Kismet Still Trite Guffaw Novelist — Ambler Colony members

Living quarters Forceful Topped a grapefruit Four-footed pal Pinch, in a way Fer-de-lance Mining marble Kassel’s river Bizarre Bright thought Ms. Sommer of film Artemis, to Livy — de plume Riverbank growth Lucy’s sidekick Gooey gruel

DOWN 1 Outlook 2 Kansas town 3 Bird-feeder treat 4 Lift-off followers 5 Miniature maple, e.g.

6 Yikes! (hyph.)

7 Brubeck of jazz 8 June celebrant 9 Startled cry 10 In front (2 wds.)

11 Seam of coal 12 Mr. Rubik 13 Soft-drink buy 21 Curved bones 22 — -Magnon

WEDNESDAY, MAY 06, 2015

24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 35 38 41 43 44 46 48 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 61

Type of exam Howled at the moon Abrasive mineral Tuxedo trim Chamonix’s Mont — It’s made from sand Municipal chief Liszt opus Faked out the goalie Windsor’s prov.

Night crawler Pranced Petri-dish contents Mollycoddling Mal de — Fictitious Swerve Unfounded, as rumors Lap dog Cease Bryce Canyon state Drury Lane com poser Artifact Verne skipper Fight for breath Lyric poem

But it lacks the long seduction dance, the art of courtship that magnifies sexual attraction through a series of staring, lip biting and flirting. You don’t get that in the film and your imagination will not be tickled compared to reading the series online. Everything is done in haste as if it is just a long casual sex where both parties just wanted to release their heat so they could go home.

It’s also difficult to determine whether the movie is a drama or comedy. It’s hard to force yourself to laugh at jokes that aren’t spot on or empathize with an actor that shows no emotion even the situation already calls for it. None of the stars displays memorable acting either. Not even Andi who is relatively a senior in acting department for having a few acting projects under her belt.

Hence if you decided to see the movie just to know what really happens in Russell or Haley’s place, you’d just get disappointed. Nothing is interesting in this film adaptation, including the sex that it blandly tries to sell.

BY ROBBIE PANGILINAN Gretchen Barretto, known for her timeless beauty, renews her bond as brand endorser for GlutaMAX. This time, she’s promoting GlutaMAX Underarm and Inner Thigh Ultimate Skin Lightening Cream and GlutaMAX Lightening Deodorant and Anti-Perspirant.

The Healthwell Nutraceuticals, Inc. Board of Directors composed of Jose Paulo Legaspi, Robert Nazal and Sheila Nazal, met with Gretchen recently to formalize the brand engagement.

GlutaMAX’s clientele are mostly women who place a high importance on taking good care of themselves, just like Gretchen. A true beauty icon, she is the perfect embodiment of this premium skin-lightening brand.

Awarded the Superbrands Philippines’ Choice distinction for being a “High-Quality and Proven Effective Brand, “ GlutaMAX is an advanced and safe product that has premium skin lightening essentials, formulated and tested by a trusted dermatologist.

GlutaMAX Underarm and Inner Thigh Ultimate Skin Lightening Cream lightens the body’s sensitive areas such as the underarms, inner thighs and elbows. It was also designed to help reduce cellulite and minimize stretch marks. With regular use, it makes the skin firmer and more youthful. GlutaMAX Lightening Deodorant and Anti-perspirant gently and effectively lightens dark underarms, making it silky smooth while keeping them freshsmelling all day.

Check out Gretchen’s trusted products, available in Mercury Drug, Watsons, SM Supermarket and other leading supermarkets and drugstores nationwide.

Gretchen Barretto renews her endorsement deal of GlutaMax with Jose Paulo Legaspi, Robert Nazal and Sheila Nazal

W E D N E S D AY : M AY 0 6 : 2 0 1 5

SHOWBITZ

ISAH V. RED EDITOR

isahred @ gmail.com Frank Magalona with his team mates Slick Rick, Raymond Gutierrez, and artist Buen Abrigo

C7 Charo Santos,, ABS-CBN CEO and president

KAPAMILYA LANDS 0N FINANCE ASIA’S BEST PH COMPANIES

FRANK MAGALONA’S MIND FACT From C8

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or The Mind Fact, Frank Magalona, a Fine Arts graduate at the UP Diliman, cites the importance of appreciation of science and arts as essential to an Axe Black Man. They wish to shy away from the club experience, stressing the importance of conversation and interaction over the glass of quality liquor. Like the Axe Black scent, the Mind Fact is not going to be flashy or overpowering; rather, it aims to be a venue for minds to communicate.

As for their signature drink, they offer a mysterious black concoction they call “Kolor Proof ”. This sweet and aromatic cocktail that is both addictive and soothing is stylishly colored black. Not to worry, the Kolor Proof keeps true to its namesake: it won’t stain your lips and teeth. We’ve tested it!

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When asked how they plan to incorporate the Axe Black scent into their bar, Frank shoots some ideas at us, “They’re going to give us… the scent extracts of [Axe Black]. So if not incorporated into diffusers, we could spray it onto the [bottom of the] glass, which will leave a lingering trace on their hands.” Nothing is final just yet as they still are faced with the challenges of coordinating from their busy schedules, and have some time before the big night.

Like Axe Black, both ambassadors describe themselves to be more low-key and understated. “Axe Black is more conservative scent. It grows on you,” says Toni Tony, as he explains why it suits his style. “It’s chill. Not flashy or overpowering. Yeah, I can see myself through the fragrance. I’m

usually quiet around people the first time that they meet me, but when they get to know the real me, I’m more than [what they expected],” says Frank.

They both express their excitement with working together for the first time.

“I used to hang out with his dad,” says Tony, “so it’s exciting to be working with Frank.” Frank reminisces on their early relationship, “I used to play basketball with him when I was young! We have the same energy and we’re on the same page, so we’re really excited about it.”

Show your support to Frank and Tony by using the hashtags #AxeBlackFrank and #LessEffortMoreStyle on social media and look out for updates on Axe Philippines’ Facebook page.

STARS SEEK SOLACE AT KARADA

elebrities who regard their health quite seriously take a route that is anchored on ancient tradition to effectively heal their body of aches, fatigue, discomfort, and other ailments. It’s Karada JapaneseBody Therapy Center.

Cary Hiroyuki Tagawa, 64, best remembered for his role as a soul-stealing sorcerer in the martial arts film Mortal Kombat, has long known the importance of body alignment in maintaining inner balance and overall health.

The Japanese-American actor is a fan of alternative medicine, citing chiropractic and breathing postural system as his means of keeping in tiptop shape after engaging in sand and water training.

Recently, however, Tagawa can be seen frequenting Karada at the New Glorietta Branch.

He has visited Karada several times, he says, and each time he felt calmer and his posture improved after a treatment session.

His favorite services are the foot massage, full body treatment, and AP Balance, which is a popular favorite among Karada regulars for its restorative powers centered on the atlas (neck

and shoulders), and the pelvis, which is the base of the body.

Knowledgeable staff who knows what they are doing, attentive customer service and respect for the customers’ privacy are also reasons why Tagawa comes back to Karada.

Similarly, Brazilian beauty and TV personality Priscilla Meirelles-Estrada has also joined the growing following of Karada. Her first Karada experience was somewhat serendipitous, knowing nothing about the wellness center that has its roots in Japan when she first walked inside the facility.

“No one really introduced me to Karada. One day, I was just passing by and decided to come in and check what services they offered. Now I go once a month to have the AP session and body treatment,” said Priscilla, who’s married to actor John Estrada and is a very hands-on mom to their daughter.

While the ex beauty queen admits to getting regular massages, practicing pilates, and playing golf as her way to de-stress and unwind, Karada is her go-to place when she feels the need to recharge and

heal her body from stressrelated discomfort.

At Karada, the treatments are applied with the help of a specially trained therapist who first makes an assessment of the client’s present condition and identifies any “abnormalities” such as misalignments, locked spinal joints, pinched nerves, stiff muscles and incorrect posture, among others. The therapist then recommends the proper treatment to address these problems from Karada’s menu of services that includes Atlas and Pelvis Balance or AP Balance, a choice list of Body Treatments (BT) and a combination of AP & BT for the full KARADA experience.

Priscilla also likes that Karada is very accessible to her place and has operating hours that suit her schedule.

She regularly visits the Serendra high Street branch, one of six Karada Japanese Body Therapy Center branches in Metro Manila located at the new Glorietta Wing, Greenbelt 1, Greenbelt Radissons, and more recently in Greenhills and Alabang to cater to customers coming from north and south of Metro Manila.

Japanese American Actor Cary Hiroyuki Tagawa wiith Sidney Stelton at Karada

Priscilla Meirelles-Estrada is a frequent guest at Karada

“I usually go alone to Karada, but I have since suggested it to my friends and they liked what they’ve experienced. In fact, they started going to Karada on a regular basis,” she said.

To know more about KARADA, call Glorietta (02) 5538731, Greenbelt Radissons (02) 843-7425, Greenbelt 1(02) 503 6004, Alabang (02) 894 1575, Greenhills (02) 510 8946 or Serendra (02) 823 6716.

ABS-CBN Corporation, the country’s leading multimedia company, has been ranked the third best mid-cap company in the Philippines in the latest survey of FinanceAsia, one of the most respected finance magazines in the region. It is the only media company in this year’s list.

The rankings are part of the magazine’s “Asia’s Best Companies 2015” poll of over 250 portfolio managers and buyside analysts in the region, or those who identify investment opportunities for Asia’s leading mutual funds, pension funds, trusts, and hedge funds.

ABS-CBN is the only entertainment and multimedia company included in the list for the mid-cap (middle capitalization) category. Security Bank was ranked 3rd equal.

“This recognition is a strong vote of confidence for ABS-CBN and a good indicator that we are on the right track,” said ABSCBN president and CEO Charo SantosConcio. “We are indeed honored to be in this prestigious list of FinanceAsia.”

This is FinanceAsia’s 15th year to conduct this survey to find out which publicly listed companies investors consider to be the best-managed in Asia, who the best senior executives are, and which companies excel in corporate governance, investor relations, and other key metrics.

Chief Operating Officer Carlo Katigbak stated that the company is encouraged by this recognition and will continue to strive for innovation and excellence.

“We will continue to work hard to ensure that our strategies are attuned to technological trends and developments, and that our content remains relevant and sensitive to the needs of our various audiences. This is part of nationbuilding, of shaping our culture, to be ‘in the service of the Filipino’,” he said.

In 2014, ABS-CBN won a Gold Stevie Award in the “Company of the Year -- Media and Entertainment Company” category at the 11th International Business Awards, while Concio won a Gold Stevie Award in the “Female Executive of the Year in Asia, Australia, or New Zealand” category at the prestigious Stevie Awards for Women in Business.

ABS-CBN also bagged a Grand Stevie Award and the Gold Stevie Award in the “Services Company of the Year” category, while Concio also received the Gold Stevie Award for the “Woman of the Year” category for all Asia-Pacific nations (except Australia and South Korea) at the 2014 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards.

Carlo Katigbak, ABS-CBN COO

W E D N E S D AY : M AY 0 6 : 2 0 1 5

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ISAH V. RED EDITOR

isahred @ gmail.com

SHOWBITZ

THE QUINTESSENTIAL

AXE BLACK MAN SIMPLY RED ISAH V. RED Quietly confident. Subtly elegant. Rock legend Bamboo fits the bill for Axe’s newest fragrance, Axe Black, designed by famous fragrance specialist Anne Gottlieb for the understated man. “I’d rather quietly enter a room and just breathe it in,” Bamboo explains, as we begin to understand his resonation with the Axe Black fragrance.

Bamboo has become an icon, and his position in The Voice has only instilled his image for Filipinos, yet the rocker remains humble and true to himself.

“I don’t see myself as an icon. That’s not me. I just laugh about it. When I perform, that’s somebody else. That’s a switch. Labels and things like that…

I’m not comfortable with that. I just like to be judged by what I’m currently doing; what’s happening in the moment.”

When asked about his personal style, it’s not always black and jeans for Bamboo. “It depends. I look in the mirror and I look for a character. What mood I’m in. It has to all fit. So sometimes I come in color. But I do have a preference [for certain colors]. These days, the simple elegance of black [that suits everything].” Like the fresh and subtle scent of Axe Black, Bamboo’s style aims for classic yet self-expressive.

Coming from his background and experiences, the cool and collected musician has come a long way both professionally and personally, as he says: “I’m so comfortable in my skin these days, it’s incredible. In a sense, you look back to when you were a teenager and all the things you gotta do. I don’t worry about those things anymore. I’ve just come to a very happy and confident part in my life. Not contented, ‘cause I’m still hungry but happy with life. I’m just really happy.”

Despite the fame and the laundry list of accomplishments, Bamboo still strives to be the best version of himself. He tells us, “I tend to push forward. That’s how I think. I want to evolve, to continuously learn, to improve. I don’t think I’ve made it to that point yet [where I’ll stop]. As an artist, I’m still fighting for that. I think that’s a great thing ‘cause it means I’m hungry. Once you put up your feet and get comfortable, that’s it. You’re done.”

For the powerhouse that is Bamboo, nothing can end with simply being happy in life. “I’m still driven,” he says matter-of-factly. “I’m driven by whatever is next. Especially these days.”

Axe Black is a scent with Less Effort, More Style, and like the lifestyle that Axe Black advocates, Bamboo is about staying true to his roots and expressing himself. The Axe Black Man is laidback and relaxed, the very energy that Bamboo himself gracefully exudes. That’s why Axe proudly welcomes Bamboo to the Axe family, and looks forward to seeing what the rock legend has in store for the Philippines this year.

FRANK MAGALONA’S POP-UP SCIENCE-THEMED LOUNGE Frank Magalona and fellow Axe ambassador BNO’s Tony Toni team up with celebrity PR professional Raymond Gutierrez, operations manager Cecile Aganon and visual artist Buen Abrigo to launch a lounge inspired by art, music and science. The catch? It’s for one night only.

Together, they call this pop-up bar The Mind Fact. As part of the latest campaign for Axe Black, the scent for the understated yet elegant man, three bars will be put up for one night only in various parts of the Metro by different teams led by Axe brand ambassadors.

These bars compete with each other to be the ultimate Axe Black Bar, based on criteria of hype, execution, and voting by the Axe Black Council. Continued on C7

Bamboo leads the new breed of Axe Men and during the launch performs his hit songs for the guests

“I tend to push forward.

That’s how I think.

I want to evolve, to continuously learn, to improve. I don’t think I’ve made it to that point yet [where I’ll stop]. As an artist, I’m still fighting for that.

I think that’s a great thing ‘cause it means I’m hungry. Once you put up your feet and get comfortable, that’s it.

You’re done.”

– Bamboo, rock icon Frank Magalona introduces a lounge inspired by art, music and science