The Standard - 2015 August 30 - Sunday

VOL. XXIX  NO. 199  3 Sections 24 Pages P18  SUNDAY : AUGUST 30, 2015  www.thestandard.com.ph  editorial@thestandard.com.ph

BELMONTE SHOOTS DOWN VAT HIKE PLAN

A8

IGLESIA PRESSES CALL FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

By Francisco Tuyay and Sara D. Fabunan

IGLESIA ni Cristo protesters who gathered at the Edsa Shrine in Quezon City moved overnight to the intersection of Shaw Boulevard and Epifanio delos Santos Avenue after Mandaluyong City issued the church a permit to stage a rally for religious freedom until Sunday.

While the number of protesters had thinned by dawn Saturday, the number of protesters at the Shaw intersection is estimated to have reached about 20,000 around midnight Friday although Mandaluyong police chief Senior Superintendent Tyrone Masigon estimated the crowd at 4,500.

The crowd included the more than 4,000 who started the protest in front of the Department of Justice in Ermita, Manila on Thursday, 2,000 at the Edsa Next page

DOJ CHIEF MUM AMID BRICKBATS

By Francisco Tuyay

FOR the second day, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima remained silent in the face of questions why she was supposedly “inordinately interested” in a case involving an expelled minister of the Iglesia ni Cristo when her office had many other more important cases.

Former congressman Rodante Marcoleta challenged De Lima to explain why she was “unusually interested” in the illegal detention complaint expelled INC minister Isaias Samson Jr. filed against Iglesia leaders.

Next page

MOBILE PROTEST. From the Department of Justice to the Edsa Shrine, members of the Iglesia ni Cristo again moved

their protest for religious freedom to the intersection of Shaw Boulevard and Epifanio delos Santos Avenue after Mandaluyong City granted them a permit to rally. The protesters said they should not be blamed for traffic congestion because it was already a problem even before their rally. EY ACASIO

SILENCE OF THE ACCUSED. Protesters hold up a streamer saying in Tagalog ‘De Lima meddler.’

FRANKIE TUYAY

S U N d ay : a U g U S t 3 0 , 2 0 1 5

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news

editorial@thestandard.com.ph

doj chief From A1...

ditional taxes on “balikbayan boxes,” saying Congress will have to decide on new duties or taxes.

Lina assured OFWs that there will be no additional taxes to be imposed on balikbayan boxes to recover the government’s P6 million daily losses due to smuggling.

He said several bills have been filed in Congress seeking to increase the current allowed value of the contents of balikbayan box exempt from taxes.

Lina said there will be no additional taxes to all balikbayan boxes with contents not more than P10,000.

“We will leave to Congress. It would be difficult for the bureau to implement additional taxes,” he said.

“What is so spectacular about the case of Isaias Samson?” asked Marcoleta, who served three terms as representative of the Alagad partylist, which is also dominated by the INC. “This is not a simple case of illegal detention. This also involves the key issue of church and state. [De Lima] should realize that any disciplinary measure against [a church] member is part of religious freedom,” Marcoleta said in a talk show aired over Net25.

“How can she ask people to vote for her when she has not even fulfilled her sworn duty at the DOJ. Her department should be called Department of Selective Justice,” he said, referring to De Lima’s supposed plan to run for senator in next year’s national elections.

“Her motive is clear,” he said.

“She wants to shake the unity of the church. She wants to test whether she can cross the line separating the church and the state.”

Marcoleta slammed De Lima for saying that she was just doing her job when she had many other more important cases that needs her attention before she leaves to campaign for the Senate.

“You are not doing your job,” Marcoleta said to De Lima.

“You are overdoing your job when you have many other cases needing your attention.”

The former congressman cited the case of the police commandos who were killed in the controversial Mamasapano operation that was approved by President Benigno Aquino III and directed by suspended police chief Alan Purisima.

Marcoleta noted that two of the slain commandos were members of the INC, but De Lima still has not filed charges on the case that is already seven months old.

He also cited the cases of the Disbursement Acceleration Program, Zamboanga siege, collusion in the electricity spot market and human trafficking in Kuwait as examples of important cases that remain pending with De Lima.

they claim to be De Lima’s selective administration of justice and disrespect for their faith.

The protesters also carried placards saying in Tagalog: “We would not be here if not for the intrusion,” “Respect our freedom of religion” and “Separation of church and state,” among others.

The crowd at the Shaw intersection remained thin after dawn, but INC marshals said their members only went home to attend to chores and join the regular Saturday worship service. Most of them, however, are expected to return later in the day along with members from nearby provinces.

Radio communications among marshals indicated that INC ministers were constantly meeting at the “Shangri-La,” but The Standard could not establish whether

they were referring to the ShangriLa Plaza Mall of the Edsa ShangriLa hotel, which are both near the Shaw intersection.

Members from distant provinces also expressed support for their brethren and vowed to join protest rallies that are scheduled to be held in the cities of Davao and Puerto Princesa beginning Monday.

The protest started on Thursday after church leaders issued a “tagubilin” [advisory] canceling a scheduled activity on Monday and urging members to gather at the DOJ to protest the “intrusion of the government.”

The advisory said brethren from Metro Manila and Rizal province should show up at Edsa beginning Sunday and all ecclesiastical districts should get together at Edsa on Monday.

Hallowed ground. A cemetery caretaker cleans up the grounds of the Libingan ng mga Bayani [cemetery of heroes] in Makati city ahead of National heroes day on August 31. Pna PHoTo

PALACE DOWNPLAYS ZERO-VOTE CAMPAIGN “It is their right to choose whoever they want to vote for in the coming elections,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said during a radio interview over governmentowned dzRB on Saturday.

“We do hope of course that this will be based on platforms, based on what will be good for our country and what will be good for the lives of our families,” she said. “That is our free-

dom, all of us, how to choose our candidates.”

Valte admitted that the balikbayan box issue spurred many objections from different parts of the world.

“And I always tell them they are free to express their feelings whether by joining a ‘no remittance day’ or posting Facebook messages or granting interviews to media,” she said.

OFWs were infuriated by the

insistence of Customs Commissioner Alberto Lina to open balikbayan boxes sent back from abroad because the government is losing billions of pesos to smuggling.

Lina even insisted that he ordered the opening of the boxes “in the service of the country,” spurring OFWs to question why he was so interested in balikbayan boxes when they should be focusing on container vans which are the usual vehicles for smugglers.

Lina only stopped insisting when Aquino himself ordered a stop to the random inspections, which critics said would only encourage corruption in the Bureau of Customs.

The bureau later backtracked from its plan to impose ad-

igLesiA

inconvenience the protest has been causing others.

But church leaders went on INCowned television and radio stations to explain why members are demonstrating in the streets and exhorted their brethren who joined the protest to display to the public the faith and discipline of the church.

“It is unfair to blame the Iglesia for the traffic caused by the peaceful assembly because people have already been complaining about the government’s neglect of public transportation months before the protest,” said Serafin Cuevas Jr., dean of the New Era University College of Law. “It is also not right to call it ‘bullying’ because that is a constitutional right,” said Cuevas, son of former Supreme Court magistrate Serafin Cuevas, who also served as

justice secretary from 1998 to 2000.

Cuevas was referring to complaints on social media that the INC is bullying the government over the decision of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to investigate the illegal detention charges expelled INC minister Isaias Samson Jr. filed against the 12 members of the INC’s advisory council.

Cuevas said the protest was not really against the complaint of Samson, but against the official actions of De Lima who betrayed prejudice, partiality and bias.

The protesters watched Cuevas on at least seven giant television screens put up at strategic places around the Shaw intersection.

They responded with repeated chants of “Hustisya, hustisya [Justice, justice]” and “Respeto, respeto [Respect, respect] alluding to what

By Sara Susanne d. Fabunan and Vito Barcelo

MALACAÑANG on Saturday belittled the threat of overseas Filipino workers to stage a “zero vote” campaign against administration candidates in the next elections because of the Aquino administration’s policy on the balikbayan boxes they send home to their families.

From A1...

Shrine, 2,500 at the SM Megamall and the 2,500 at the Starmall plus new arrivals from the INC’s 29 ecclesiastical districts.

President Benigno Aquino III instructed Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II to work with the police and local government units affected by the ongoing protest to ensure public safety and order, according to Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte.

“The President’s instructions were to ensure the safety of the public including… Not just those who were involved in the protest, but more importantly, those who are uninvolved in the protest,” Valte said, amid public complaints of the

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NEWS

editorial@thestandard.com.ph

TrusTed wiTh liTTle. Senator Grace Poe speaks before students of Nueva Ecija as part of her tour of schools across the country. Ferdie dOMiNGO

POLL SOURCE CODE DEAL HIT POE STUMPS NUEVA ECIJA

By Ferdie G. domingo SAN JOSE CITY—After going around universities in Pangasinan, Senator Grace Poe continued her school tour in Nueva Ecija, the province that gave the biggest margin of victory to her father Fernando Poe Jr. when he ran for president in 2004.

Poe attended a student leadership forum at the Constancio Padilla National High School here where she exhorted youngsters to be trustworthy even in small things.

“Whoever can be trusted with very little, can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little, will also be dishonest with much,” Poe said, quoting the Bible much to be delight of thousands of Nueva Ecija residents.

Poe also denied reports

that she will formally declare her bid for the presidency on her birthday, September 3, and said that she will make known her decision on October 16, the deadline for the filing of the certificates of candidacy for all elective positions.

Poe is to turn 47 on September 3. At the forum venue here, she was gifted with an advanced birthday cake by organizers, including Globe Telecom.

During the forum, she fielded a few questions from students and welcomed questions regarding her citizenship, adding it is “only proper that people scrutinize the character of each candidate seeking public office.”

“Dumadagundong [It was thundering] just like FPJ. Like father, like daughter,” said Board Member Joseph Ortiz, one of the convenors of the

Grace Poe for President Movement.

Ortiz noted that when Poe’s father ran for president in 2004, he posted a margin of 300,000 votes over then President Gloria Arroyo, which was the largest provincial margin on record.

Poe was accompanied

by Pasig Rep. Roman Romulo, a member of the Liberal Party who also accompanied Poe during her meeting with the Nationalist People’s Coalition last Thursday. Also accompanying Poe were Mayor Marivic Belena, businessman Joselito Violago and other local officials.

In her speech, Poe called on the youth to keep their integrity like a seed that grows and bear fruit.

She said the youths should learn to do what is right so that when they grow up, they have such virtue with them.

By sara susanne d. Fabunan

THE Commission on Elections assured that the base source code to be installed in the vote count machines to be used next year will be known by October 15 even as a congressman assailed the poll body for awarding the contract to the same contractor that reviewed the codes in previous elections.

“The base source code review will be held before October 15 to increase the transparency. During the previous elections, the source code was not available for review until the latter part of the elections,” said Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista.

Bautista made the assurance after the Comelec signed the P35-million contract on Friday with the US firm SLI Global Solutions which will test and review the source code of the voting software program that will be installed in more than 93,000 Optical Mark Reader machines.

Afer the review, the source code will be customized according to the needs of the Comelec and undergo certification by international certification agency.

“Thereafter it will be made available for [public] review in February 2016,” Bautista said, adding that all election stakeholders will have ample time to scrutinize and test the source code.

He said, the Comelec is looking at holding the base code review at academic institutions or available adequate facilities in universities.

SLI Global Solutions president Mark Phillips assured that his company will make sure that the source code submitted

by Smartmatic-Total Information Management Corp. meets specifications and performance required by the Comelec.

“We will do our own standard, issue a report on the results of the testing and make a certification and recommendation,” Phillips said, adding that the review includes securing the source code against any hacking and unwanted entries.

But Kabataan Rep. Terry Ridon Comelec’s decision to award the contract to SLI Global Solutions compromises the credibility of the 2016 national elections.

“The fact that the same company that conducted the source

code review in the past two automated elections has again been employed for 2016 don’t sit well with us,” Ridon said.

“Combine this with the fact that Smartmatic will again provide new untested machines, and you’ll have a best-in-class recipe for election fraud,” Ridon added.

“It’s like 2010 elections all over again—with the shady machines and shadier source code review. We call on Comelec to ensure that the source code will also be opened for review by the public earlier, and not repeat the last-minute submission of source codes that happened in the past two elections,” Ridon added.

The source code, a set of alpha-numeric instructions that essentially run the voting machines, is vulnerable to fraud, since questionable lines of code and even backdoor access by third parties can be inserted discreetly and compromise the result of the elections.

But Senior Commissioner Christian Robert Lim explained that the review will ensure that the source code is free of possibly malicious lines.

“Basically the source code review will ensure how the system will run. To make sure one vote for Mar is one vote for Mar, one vote for Binay is one vote for Binay, not one vote equals five. One person, one vote,” Lim said.

MISHAP KILLS DEPED EXEC

By John Paolo Bencito

BirThday BOy. Former Camarines Sur governor and congressman Luis Villafuerte (left) greets well-wishers who gathered at the Bicol State College of Applied Science and Technology in Naga City for his 80th birthday. He was accompanied by Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez who was in the city to study plans to improve the ManilaLegazpi City train line. Ver NOVeNO

EDUCATION Undersecretary for Finance and Administration Francis Varela died in a vehicular accident in Pililla, Rizal on Saturday, the Department of Education announced in a statement.

“Undersecretary Varela has been very instrumental in forging ahead education reforms particularly in ensuring that every cent in the education budget is spent judiciously,” the DepEd said of the 47-year-old official who had been with the agency for five years.

Varela was “very instrumental in forging ahead education reforms particularly in ensuring that every cent in

the education budget is spent judiciously.”

“He was a staunch advocate of anti-corruption efforts in the Department and played a very important role in instituting reforms to ensure that ethical standards are observed in all transactions involving the agency,” it added.

Varela was the youngest among DepEd’s newlyappointed officials but was hailed for his term as chief operating officer and president of the AsianBank Capital and Investment Corporation and the head of the Strategic Planning and Corporate Communications of the AB Capital Group.

He was also an economist

and a program director of the Industrial Economics Program, and faculty member of both Economics and Mathematics departments for the Center for Research and Communication of the University of Asia and the Pacific.

Varela graduated magna cum laude in Mathematics at Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro City and finished his Master of Science Industrial Economics at the then Center for Research and Communication, now known as the UA&P. Despite the “voluminous work load” he faced, Varela had vowed to “squarely address the financial and administrative challenges posed by such a huge bureaucracy as DepEd”.

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OPINION

ADELLE CHUA EDITOR

lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

A5

OPINION SYMBIOSIS

[ EDI TORI A L ]

NEVER SORRY, NEVER WRONG THIS week marked the fifth year anniversary of the Luneta tragedy, when eight Chinese tourists were killed by a disgruntled police officer who held them hostage and then shot them after government authorities bungled the negotiations.

The incident was the earliest tar on the administration of President Benigno Aquino III, who by then was only a little over a month on the job.

It was the first big test, and the first big revelation. It turned out to be a preview of what the next six years under Mr. Aquino would be.

The following day, the new President stepped into the bus that had met its fate on the Quirino grandstand, very near the statue of the national hero, Jose Rizal.

To everybody’s horror, Mr. Aquino’s face showed no remorse or grief—he was even smiling as he inspected where the killings took place.

He later on felt compelled to explain that it was just how his face was.

Despite demands of the Hong Kong government for the Philippine government to apologize for what had happened, the President was firm and even vehement that he was not saying sorry because what had happened was the act of one deranged man, and was not binding on the entire government.

When told that it was not the point, Aquino held his ground and branded those who held contrary opinions enemies of reform out to bring him down.

Meanwhile, a fact-finding report established the culpability of Palace officials in the botched negotiations that directly led to the killings.The President ignored it and gave said officials but a slap on the wrist.

What happened in the aftermath of the Luneta tragedy would become a theme of how Mr. Aquino would conduct himself and run this nation’s affairs in the next five years. Since then, we have had several other crises, some done and over with while some are continuing to this day.

On every occasion, Mr. Aquino has never strayed from his official position that this administration is the best thing that happened to Filipinos, that everything that goes wrong is the fault of some other party, that it or its agents are infallible, and that whoever dares criticize them is an enemy of reform and an ally of the dark forces.

We expect more of the same in the next 10 months, after which we could heave a sigh of relief and cross our fingers that the next one would not be as smug and as arrogant.

REAL SOLUTIONS, PLEASE

IT TAKES a lot before Filipinos snap. Our capacity for patience and to forgive the inefficiency of public officials is legendary. It took us more than two decades before we threw up our hands in the air in frustration over the sins of the conjugal dictatorship, and even allowed the family of the dictator to return

to power eventually. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo lasted 10 years in office despite the supposed illegitimacy of her assumption to power and the many allegations of corruption involving her husband and her minions. Senator Juan Ponce Enrile is now out of jail and back at the Senate despite being charged of plunder. Many officials of the Aquino administration remain in office despite the mounting proof of inefficiency and ineptitude. We’ve been complaining about the traffic situation in Metro

Here’s one. Or two.

Or several.

Manila for quite some time now. The response from our officials have ranged from the ridiculous (“it’s a sign of progress”), to dismissive (“it’s not fatal”). Last Thursday, the President himself asked for more patience from ev-

eryone else and hinted of the return to the punitive oddeven scheme.

The reaction is typical of the insensitivity that has characterized the default reaction of government. As usual, government is missing the point. What people want are real solutions to the traffic situation—not another stopgap measure. Vehicle reduction through half-thought out schemes is a knee-jerk reaction; aside from it being anti-progress, it penalizes those who do not have the means to buy more ve-

hicles. It also shifts the effort of traffic enforcers to apprehending violators rather than helping move traffic along.

There are more vehicles on the road because our mass public transportation system is completely unreliable. I asked officemates and my students and most of them said they are forced to bring a car to work or to school because conditions at the MRT and LRT are subhuman. If government brings back the odd-even scheme, how will employees come to work or students go to school?

Government has been quick to trumpet any sign of progress or development but has not adequately prepared for the consequences of development. Of course there will be more cars on the road! What we need are solutions that are strategic and comprehensive. Even more important now, what we need from our leaders are genuine efforts to show sincerity and commitment to deal with the problem.

The long-term solutions will in-

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City.

Telephone numbers 832-5554, 832-5556, 832-5558 (connecting all departments), (Editorial), 832-5546, (Advertising), 832-

volve putting in place infrastructures and systems way ahead of time. This means more effective and efficient mass public transportation systems. The construction of the new LRT lines are taking so long and the purchase of those darned trains even longer. Meanwhile, we have a Philippine National Railways train system that is basically a rolling coffin—why government has not maximized the use of the PNR trains is a question that baffles the

5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www. manilastandardtoday.com E-mail: contact@thestandard.com.ph

MST ONLINE

can be accessed at: www.manilastandardtoday.com

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Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

mind. More efficient traffic systems will have to be put in place such as better and functioning traffic lights and more effective ways of documenting traffic violations so that fines for violators are strictly enforced. Constructing more roads, skyways, overpasses, underpasses, tunnels in critical areas need to be programmed ahead of time. But there are a number of solutions that can be pursued quickly.

Continued on A6

MST Management, Inc. Philip G. Romualdez Arnold C. Liong Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Jocelyn F. Domingo Ron Ryan S. Buguis

Chairman President & Chief Executive Officer Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Director of Operations Finance Officer

Ma. Isabel “Gina” P. Verzosa Head, Advertising Solutions Anita F. Grefal Treasury Manager Edgar M. Valmorida Circulation Manager

BY NOW, many of us must have our own Edsa horror stories to tell.

It can pertain to the avenue, or to the memories associated with it. With Edsa the road we think of heavy traffic, or our MRT travails, or the inability of authorities to keep motorists safe from bus robbers or stone-throwing drug addicts.

It can also evoke memories of the struggle for freedom, of the pursuit of peace, and the inspiration caused by a change occasioned without violence.

Or it can be a mix of the two—the physical condition of Edsa says a lot about how things are today. Heavy traffic and MRT woes are not just that: They point to wrong priorities, poor management, and inefficient administration. Yes, the chaos on Edsa could well speak for our chaotic national life.

This was before the Iglesia ni Cristo had the brilliant idea of calling its members to mass action on Edsa Friday night. **** The traffic was expected. It was a Friday, it was payday, and a threeday long-weekend loomed. All of a sudden, the group that had amassed at the compound of the Department of Justice in Manila decided—were told—to move to the Edsa Shrine.

They were told to express their objection to DOJ Secretary Leila de Lima’s action to investigate alleged kidnappings of INC members who dared speak out against alleged excesses of those in the inner circle of the sect.

The religious group known for being a political kingmaker spelled out the agenda very clearly for its members: Go to Edsa and assail De Lima for violating a sacred provision of the Constitution—the separation of Church and State. Come bearing placards. Bring extra clothes, mineral water, food that is not easily spoiled.

Await further notice.

I was on a bus from Ayala late Friday night, suffering the ordeal just like everyone else and at least thankful that I was seated in the bus so I could rest. After more than two hours, and as we inched our way towards Shaw, people started alighting —at least a dozen, I think—men, women, old and young, carrying backpacks and wearing caps and jackets.

An old man said he was from Calamba, Laguna and 30,000 of them Continued on A6

Rolando G. Estabillo Jojo A. Robles Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Francis Lagniton Joyce Pangco Pañares Adelle Chua Romel J. Mendez Roberto Cabrera

Publisher Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor City Editor Senior Deskman Art Director Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editiorial Board

S U N D AY, A U G U S T 3 0 , 2 0 1 5

A4

OPINION

ADELLE CHUA EDITOR

lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

A5

OPINION SYMBIOSIS

[ EDI TORI A L ]

NEVER SORRY, NEVER WRONG THIS week marked the fifth year anniversary of the Luneta tragedy, when eight Chinese tourists were killed by a disgruntled police officer who held them hostage and then shot them after government authorities bungled the negotiations.

The incident was the earliest tar on the administration of President Benigno Aquino III, who by then was only a little over a month on the job.

It was the first big test, and the first big revelation. It turned out to be a preview of what the next six years under Mr. Aquino would be.

The following day, the new President stepped into the bus that had met its fate on the Quirino grandstand, very near the statue of the national hero, Jose Rizal.

To everybody’s horror, Mr. Aquino’s face showed no remorse or grief—he was even smiling as he inspected where the killings took place.

He later on felt compelled to explain that it was just how his face was.

Despite demands of the Hong Kong government for the Philippine government to apologize for what had happened, the President was firm and even vehement that he was not saying sorry because what had happened was the act of one deranged man, and was not binding on the entire government.

When told that it was not the point, Aquino held his ground and branded those who held contrary opinions enemies of reform out to bring him down.

Meanwhile, a fact-finding report established the culpability of Palace officials in the botched negotiations that directly led to the killings.The President ignored it and gave said officials but a slap on the wrist.

What happened in the aftermath of the Luneta tragedy would become a theme of how Mr. Aquino would conduct himself and run this nation’s affairs in the next five years. Since then, we have had several other crises, some done and over with while some are continuing to this day.

On every occasion, Mr. Aquino has never strayed from his official position that this administration is the best thing that happened to Filipinos, that everything that goes wrong is the fault of some other party, that it or its agents are infallible, and that whoever dares criticize them is an enemy of reform and an ally of the dark forces.

We expect more of the same in the next 10 months, after which we could heave a sigh of relief and cross our fingers that the next one would not be as smug and as arrogant.

REAL SOLUTIONS, PLEASE

IT TAKES a lot before Filipinos snap. Our capacity for patience and to forgive the inefficiency of public officials is legendary. It took us more than two decades before we threw up our hands in the air in frustration over the sins of the conjugal dictatorship, and even allowed the family of the dictator to return

to power eventually. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo lasted 10 years in office despite the supposed illegitimacy of her assumption to power and the many allegations of corruption involving her husband and her minions. Senator Juan Ponce Enrile is now out of jail and back at the Senate despite being charged of plunder. Many officials of the Aquino administration remain in office despite the mounting proof of inefficiency and ineptitude. We’ve been complaining about the traffic situation in Metro

Here’s one. Or two.

Or several.

Manila for quite some time now. The response from our officials have ranged from the ridiculous (“it’s a sign of progress”), to dismissive (“it’s not fatal”). Last Thursday, the President himself asked for more patience from ev-

eryone else and hinted of the return to the punitive oddeven scheme.

The reaction is typical of the insensitivity that has characterized the default reaction of government. As usual, government is missing the point. What people want are real solutions to the traffic situation—not another stopgap measure. Vehicle reduction through half-thought out schemes is a knee-jerk reaction; aside from it being anti-progress, it penalizes those who do not have the means to buy more ve-

hicles. It also shifts the effort of traffic enforcers to apprehending violators rather than helping move traffic along.

There are more vehicles on the road because our mass public transportation system is completely unreliable. I asked officemates and my students and most of them said they are forced to bring a car to work or to school because conditions at the MRT and LRT are subhuman. If government brings back the odd-even scheme, how will employees come to work or students go to school?

Government has been quick to trumpet any sign of progress or development but has not adequately prepared for the consequences of development. Of course there will be more cars on the road! What we need are solutions that are strategic and comprehensive. Even more important now, what we need from our leaders are genuine efforts to show sincerity and commitment to deal with the problem.

The long-term solutions will in-

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City.

Telephone numbers 832-5554, 832-5556, 832-5558 (connecting all departments), (Editorial), 832-5546, (Advertising), 832-

volve putting in place infrastructures and systems way ahead of time. This means more effective and efficient mass public transportation systems. The construction of the new LRT lines are taking so long and the purchase of those darned trains even longer. Meanwhile, we have a Philippine National Railways train system that is basically a rolling coffin—why government has not maximized the use of the PNR trains is a question that baffles the

5550. P.O. Box 2933, Manila Central Post Office, Manila. Website: www. manilastandardtoday.com E-mail: contact@thestandard.com.ph

MST ONLINE

can be accessed at: www.manilastandardtoday.com

MEMBER

PPI

Philippine Press Institute The National Association of Philippine Newspapers

mind. More efficient traffic systems will have to be put in place such as better and functioning traffic lights and more effective ways of documenting traffic violations so that fines for violators are strictly enforced. Constructing more roads, skyways, overpasses, underpasses, tunnels in critical areas need to be programmed ahead of time. But there are a number of solutions that can be pursued quickly.

Continued on A6

MST Management, Inc. Philip G. Romualdez Arnold C. Liong Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Jocelyn F. Domingo Ron Ryan S. Buguis

Chairman President & Chief Executive Officer Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Director of Operations Finance Officer

Ma. Isabel “Gina” P. Verzosa Head, Advertising Solutions Anita F. Grefal Treasury Manager Edgar M. Valmorida Circulation Manager

BY NOW, many of us must have our own Edsa horror stories to tell.

It can pertain to the avenue, or to the memories associated with it. With Edsa the road we think of heavy traffic, or our MRT travails, or the inability of authorities to keep motorists safe from bus robbers or stone-throwing drug addicts.

It can also evoke memories of the struggle for freedom, of the pursuit of peace, and the inspiration caused by a change occasioned without violence.

Or it can be a mix of the two—the physical condition of Edsa says a lot about how things are today. Heavy traffic and MRT woes are not just that: They point to wrong priorities, poor management, and inefficient administration. Yes, the chaos on Edsa could well speak for our chaotic national life.

This was before the Iglesia ni Cristo had the brilliant idea of calling its members to mass action on Edsa Friday night. **** The traffic was expected. It was a Friday, it was payday, and a threeday long-weekend loomed. All of a sudden, the group that had amassed at the compound of the Department of Justice in Manila decided—were told—to move to the Edsa Shrine.

They were told to express their objection to DOJ Secretary Leila de Lima’s action to investigate alleged kidnappings of INC members who dared speak out against alleged excesses of those in the inner circle of the sect.

The religious group known for being a political kingmaker spelled out the agenda very clearly for its members: Go to Edsa and assail De Lima for violating a sacred provision of the Constitution—the separation of Church and State. Come bearing placards. Bring extra clothes, mineral water, food that is not easily spoiled.

Await further notice.

I was on a bus from Ayala late Friday night, suffering the ordeal just like everyone else and at least thankful that I was seated in the bus so I could rest. After more than two hours, and as we inched our way towards Shaw, people started alighting —at least a dozen, I think—men, women, old and young, carrying backpacks and wearing caps and jackets.

An old man said he was from Calamba, Laguna and 30,000 of them Continued on A6

Rolando G. Estabillo Jojo A. Robles Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Francis Lagniton Joyce Pangco Pañares Adelle Chua Romel J. Mendez Roberto Cabrera

Publisher Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor City Editor Senior Deskman Art Director Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editiorial Board

S U N D AY, A U G U S T 3 0 , 2 0 1 5

A6

OPINION

lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

COMMITMENT ISSUES IN COMBATTING CLIMATE CHANGE

By Ayeen Karunungan THE Conference of Parties, a yearly conference of countries that tackle climate change, will be happening this December in Paris, France. Already on its 21st year, the Paris COP will determine the fate of people and planet. Will countries be able to commit to a fair, ambitious, and legally binding deal that will determine our survival and quality of life?

Or will it be another failure just like what happened in the COP15 in Copenhagen?

With the COP21 just around the corner, we are seeing more countries submit their Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) to the United Nations. The INDC is a set of commitment targets by each country which serves as their contribution in creating a climate-resilient future.

Many countries have already submitted their INDC, the latest one being Dominican Republic. As governments try to reach the target of below 2 degrees celsius of global warming since pre-industrial period, the question is, are the commitments enough?

The Philippines, one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, has yet to submit its INDC to the UN. Last July 24, the Climate Change Commission opened its consultation to civil society. However, the process of the consultation remains questionable.

Real... From A5 First, construction activities on public roads must be strictly managed to ensure that these do not impede traffic unnecessarily.

In other countries, construction areas are fenced or even walled off to contain the construction activities. In this country, contractors act as if everyone owes them a favor for some future convenience or benefit to be derived from their work. The truth is that more lanes can be freed up for traffic if only contractors manage their activities with public convenience in mind —in most instances, lanes are blocked off simply because they have not cleaned up the debris, or they serve as parking for heavy equipment or stockpile area which can be done elsewhere. In my neighborhood where a major public work is being done,

According to the World Research Institute, the INDC should be a transparent process as this will help in holding stakeholders accountable.

Commissioner Heherson Alvarez of the Climate Change Commission, in his article in Responding to Climate Change (RTCC), criticized the Philippine process, “I must confess that there is none in the way of a transparent, comprehensive, and credible process where key stakeholders are actively engaged.”

Gene Ferrer, National Coordinator of Aksyon Klima, agrees. “There was no real consultation that happened that included Civil Society Organizations (CSO). When they called us, we were hoping that they could show us the INDC paper but they only showed us the process, which included consultations from government agencies and the business sector, but they did not even tell us what they had talked about,” Ferrer said.

This kind of consultation is the worst kind, says Chris Wright, a climate activist who has been tracking the climate negotiations. “When you look at some of the worst consultations done on the INDC’s around the world, they look much more like presentations that patronize rather than engage their citizens and NGO’s,” he said.

This how exactly CSO’s feel in the recent consultations,

which snubbed the civil society sector. “We feel that the CSO voice is not welcome to the table,” Ferrer added.

Another issue that has angered and frustrated climate activists and civil society in the country is the continuous investment of the government in dirty energy. The government has approved more than 40 coal power plants to be built in the next few years, despite calls for other countries to mitigate carbon emissions.

“Secretary Sering said she cannot seem defend to the president why we need to stop the approvals of coal power plants when our economy has grown because of it,” Ferrer said.

The economy has grown but at what cost? At the cost of environmental degradation and health hazards?

With these developments, we cannot help but ask: is this government truly sincere in addressing climate change and are we ready to commit to combatting climate change?

No, not if the Department of Energy (DOE) projects a rise of over 31 percent of carbon emissions per capita over a 20year period from 2010 to 2030.

While other countries have committed to lowering their carbon emissions, it seems the Philippines has committed to increasing the amount of carbon in the atmosphere.

Yes, we are a vulnerable country and we have experienced the devastating effects

of climate change impacts in our country. Yes, we have contributed very little to the climate change we are experiencing now when compared to the carbon emissions of developed nations. But is this an excuse for us not to act on climate change, not just in terms of adaptation but also in mitigation? With the growing economy of the Philippines, shouldn’t we all the more think about sustainable development?

At this point, the Philippines’ INDC is clearly unambitious, insincere, not transparent, and non-inclusive. The commitments we have made are commitments straight out of our noses, something seemingly done just because we are required to commit something. What we need are commitments that think of long-term solutions to climate change, commitments that will listen to the people’s voices, and commitments that will put people and planet over profit. Until then, we are only betraying our countrymen who have already suffered and are currently suffering from climate change impacts.

streets have been closed off for two months already for no other reason other than sheer laziness or lack of strategic thinking on the part of the engineers—they just don’t care about anything else other than their jobs.

Second, improve the general quality of traffic enforcers. The Metro Manila Development Authority must hire people who can apply some degree of critical thinking on their feet. When traffic enforcers override traffic lights, they must make sure that they know the consequences of their actions— just because traffic seems to be moving in one direction does not mean they have succeeded in easing traffic, very often they just redirected it somewhere else. Traffic enforcers who cannot be bullied and who can communicate should be preferred, not just

people who stand there as a sentry.

Third, government must scale up public educational campaigns about discipline and the need for a collaborative approach to easing conditions on the road. A major cause of traffic congestion is undisciplined drivers and the “me first” syndrome which results in clogged intersections. People should be reminded constantly about the importance of traffic discipline and courtesy. Part of this effort should be ensuring that people who are given driver’s licenses really know the rules on the road.

Fourth, enforce the rules strictly, particularly on buses, trucks, and other vehicles with capacity to block traffic with just a bit of carelessness or minor error on the part of their drivers. Most of the traffic on EDSA is caused by

buses loading and unloading passengers at critical junctions. Take out tricycles and other illegal vehicles on the road. Strictly disallow parking even on side roads that serve as alternative roadways.

Fifth, sit down with all stakeholders to map out a comprehensive scheduling scheme that is mutually acceptable to all. A four-day workweek or school week that is wisely spread from Monday to Friday and from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. may be costly in terms of electricity and other costs, but may help alleviate traffic congestion and help employees and students breathe better.

What we need are signs of serious and sincere thinking and effort; we need to see government being concerned and doing all that it can instead of the usual attempts to spread the blame around.

Renee Juliene Karunungan, 25, is the Advocacy Director of Dakila. Dakila has been campaigning for climate justice since 2009. She is also a climate tracker for Adopt A Negotiator.

Symbiosis... From A5 in his area had been told to come to Manila to complain about De Lima.

“Saan po ba dito ang Megamall? Doon daw kami magkikita kita,” asked a woman at the back.

In front of the two giant malls were people already camped out on Edsa. Between Robinsons Galleria and the MRT Ortigas station, people were walking on the narrow pedestrian lane, many of them jumping the steel railings meant to keep them on the sidewalk.

Around them, trash. You wonder whether they would even pick up after themselves or leave their litter lying around. Wonder, too, about whether the establishments in the area have sufficient toilet facilities to accommodate them all. Pity the babies and the pregnant women and the children and the older people. Mahamog. Baka umulan pa.

And yet they looked so pleased with themselves, passionate with their cause, oblivious of the inconvenience they were causing others who were exhausted just trying to earn a living.

They believed they were on to a good thing, a noble thing.

And that is the tragedy. **** If you want to know your candidate, just listen to what he or she has to say about what is happening on Edsa this weekend. The stakes are high and they know it. Consider only the ones who does not give a calculated, populist response.

What politician would be so foolish as to criticize a powerful religious sect that tells its 3 million members exactly whom to vote for?

Don’t the politicians even pay “courtesy visits” to the gods of the Iglesia?

If the sect feels entitled to throw its weight around, declaring support for candidates and pushing for the appointment of its members to prime government positions, this is because our leaders have reinforced this symbiotic relationship for many years.

Alas, the wheeling and dealing occurs at the top levels. Ordinary members must profess total obedience and dare not question what it is they are told to do. They are the ones who give unconditional, unthinking devotion, and in the end, they are the ones who get screwed.

This is our Edsa. This is us. adellechua@gmail.com

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NEWS

editorial@thestandard.com.ph

PAPI AWARDS. The Publishers Association of the Philippines Inc. led by its president Luis T. Arriola (second from left) honored The Outstanding Congressmen of the Philippines on August 28, 2015 at the Asian Institute of Management. From left: Johnny Nuñez, EVP of PAPI; Representatives Jonathan dela Cruz, Party-List ABAKADA; Neri J. Colmenares, Party-List Bayan Muna; Celso Lobregat, first district of Zamboanga City; Emil Ong, 2nd district of Northern Samar; Amado Bagatsing, 5th district of Manila; Deputy Speaker Giorgidi Aggabao; Luz Ilagan, Party-List Gabriela; Leopoldo Bataoil, 2nd district of Pangasinan; Samuel Pagdilao Jr., Party-list ACT-CIS and Gary Alejano of Magdalo party-list; Estrella Gallardo and Angie Lim, both directors of PAPI.

INFO BLITZ ON BBL UNDER WAY

By Sara Susanne D. Fabunan

GOVERNMENT’S chief peace negotiator Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer on Saturday urged Congress anew to finish its work on the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law and at the same time continue to raise awareness and understanding on the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

Ferrer made the call as the country was poised to celebrate the 12th National Peace Consciousness Month next month.

In a statement, Ferrer said that this year’s observance “comes at a most opportune time as the leadership of both Houses of Congress are eyeing a September passage of the BBL.” Ferrer said that the celebration will be meaningful

if Senate President Franklin Drilon and House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. will pass the emended version of BBL into law.

“September has always been an important month for us in the peace process. This year will be extra special and memorable if our esteemed lawmakers in the House of Representatives and the Senate will finally finish their work on the Bangsam-

oro law,” Ferrer said.

Both Drilon and Belmonte have made a public pronouncements that there’s still time to pass their respective BLBARs (Basic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region), the amended version of the BBL, in September.

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process is scheduled to hold several activities for the month-long commemoration.

Ferrer said that the agency would be launching a series of exhibits around Metro Manila and parts of Mindanao with the assistance of several government agencies, major shopping malls and universities.

“Beyond just calling for the passage of the bill, the purpose of these exhibits is to bring closer to the Filipino people the stories and dreams

of our fellow Filipino brothers and sisters in the prospective Bangsamoro,” Ferrer said.

Ferrer said that the series of exhibits in different universities and campuses may empower the general public to engage in the continuing dialogue on the Bangsamoro and the legislative process involving the BBL. She added that they are also planning to put out information and education materials in public spaces to increase awareness of the peace process.

The exhibit will kick off at the Miriam College and the TriNoMa Mall in September and it will be mounted until the 5th and the 6th, respectively.

On September 14, the exhibit can be viewed at the College of Arts and Science, University of the Philippines Manila and the Philippine

portunity to end the decades of alienation and hostility is now with us,”Ferrer said.

Ferrer also invited everyone to visit the official OPAPP website as various activities and contests were also being planned.

“We are bringing the peace month to the social media.

The OPAPP will be launching several online-only events aligned with the objectives of the Bangsamoro peace process,” she said.

OPAPP has been leading the annual celebration of the National Peace Consciousness Month by virtue of Proclamation No. 675 series of 2004.

The highlight of last year’s celebration came when the Office of the President transmitted the original BBL which was drafted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission.

HIV-AIDS CASES ON THE RISE

CRY FOR JUSTICE. The

By Alvin T. Guanzon

family of Palawan environmentalist and broadcast journalist Gerry Ortega, Patty, left, and daughter Micaella, appeal anew to the government to speed up his fiveyear-old murder case during the Kapihan sa QC news forum at Annabel’s. EY ACASIO

BUTUAN CITY—The number of HIV-AIDS cases and deaths went up in Caraga Region since government started its official recording of the cases in 1995, the office of the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of the DOH-13 said on Saturday.

The office claimed that persons afflicted with HIV-AIDS are getting younger and younger.

Caraga HIV-AIDS updates showed the province of Agusan del Norte topped the number of HIV-AIDS cases with 22 cases from January to July 2015; Agusan del Sur, 10 cases; Surigao del Sur, 7; and Surigao del Norte, 6.

Majority of the 45 HIV-AIDS cases are males with only two females. There were only 22 cases last year.

E-VEHICLES TO EASE TRAFFIC PUSHED

IF MORE electric jeepneys are deployed for public transport use, the traffic situation might improve, according to Rommel Juan, an advocate for the use of electric vehicles.

He cited as an example the largest fleet of EJeepneys now running as a public transport solution inside Filinvest City in Alabang dubbed as the 360 Eco Loop. “This is managed by a professional fleet management operator so that means that the drivers are not on their own and are not left to

Normal University.

On September 14 to 17, the exhibits will be seen at the House of Representatives.

The exhibits will focus on providing information and clarifying misconceptions on the draft law, Ferrer said.

Aside from exhibits, the OPPAP will also hired a public utility vehicles in Metro Manila and Mindanao province carrying messages and information education about BBL. Various tricycle drivers and associations have agreed to carry the advertisements, pointing out the need to bring closer to the public the Bangsamoro message of peace and social justice.

“I can’t stress enough the importance of keeping the Bangsamoro peace process in the consciousness of the public because the best op-

drive in an undisciplined and dangerous manner,” said Juan, president of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines.

Juan explains that fleet operators train their drivers to run their vehicles safely and in an orderly manner. “And since they are paid a fixed daily wage and enjoy employment benefits mandated by law, they are not under the old style ‘boundary system’ which leads them to drive fast and in a reckless and aggressive manner. They do not

clog and obstruct street corners and are not always fighting and outmaneuvering each other for passengers.”

He cited studies that have identified driver discipline or the lack of it as a major cause of our traffic woes in the metropolis.

“Since it was pioneered in Makati in 2008, the EJeepney has proven that fleet management works. And its management template actually shows that it is the best and most efficient way to manage EJeepney fleets.”

Of the 45 new cases of HIV-AIDS for 2015, the first person to test positive for HIV-AIDS in Caraga came from Santiago in Agusan del Norte and the second from Butuan City and third from Tandag City in Surigao del Sur province.

Others are residents of Tandag, Bislig, and in Barobo, Lingig, Tagbina and Hinatuan towns, all in Surigao del Sur province, Bayugan City and Rosario, Prosperidad, San Francisco and Sta. Josefa towns, all in Agusan del Sur province, the towns of Buenavista, Santiago including Butuan City, all belonging to Agusan del Norte.

The report also claims there were already eight deaths and 198 cases of HIVAIDS recorded from 1995 to July 2015.

In June 2015 alone, there were about nine new cases of HIV-AIDS with 18 year-old as the youngest and 67 as the oldest affected.

MR. JESSOM LABAMSAM Please contact Jennelyn Sales at 0999-4833769 or echo.poon@isshk.org<mailto:echo.poon@isshk.org> For discussion on the welfare of a child born in Hong Kong on 25.6.2014.

MR. ARTHUR TOMAD Please contact Jennelyn Sales at 0999-4833769 or echo.poon@isshk.org<mailto:echo.poon@isshk.org> For discussion on the welfare of a child born in Hong Kong on 22.2.2010.

Doc. No. 0783 Page No. 0163 Book No. 1102 Series of 2015

(TS AUG. 29,30,31 SEPT. 1, 2015

A8

SUNDAY: AUGUST 30, 2015

editorial@the standard.com.ph

HOUSE SHOOTS DOWN VAT HIKE STUDENT’S DISCOUNT BILL OKAYED THE House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a measure granting discount on books and school supplies to underprivileged students.

House Bill 5902, principally authored by Pasig Rep. Roman Romulo, chair of House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, said the measure seeks to ease the financial burden of underprivileged students and help them cope with the high cost of education.

“The measure, also known as Underprivileged Higher and Technical Students’ Discounts Act, would grant 5-percent discount to students not only in buying books and school supplies, but also their food and medicines,” Romulo said.

The measure, Romulo said provides that all enrolled students in post-secondary non-degree technical-vocational courses and those enrolled in Bachelor’s Degree programs at the college level, postsecondary non-degree technicalvocational courses are covered by the measure.

The measure also covers the student-beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer or Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and other poverty reduction programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), he said.

Also covered are students with part-time jobs whose income combined with the annual gross income of their parents do not exceed P300,000.00.

Under the measure, the discounts shall be discontinued if the student fails for one semester in the majority of the academic subjects enrolled in, if the student fails to finish the short-term non-degree course enrolled in and if the student stops schooling.

The qualified student may also be disqualified if the student is convicted of any crime, unless such failure is due to some valid cause beyond the student’s control, as determined by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) or the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Maricel V. Cruz

The Seal of Good Local Governance is conferred on Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. by Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Austere Panadero.

The province of Zambales receives the prestigious award for its performance in disaster preparedness, social protection, business friendliness, competitiveness, peace and order and environmental management.

By Maricel V. Cruz

LAWMAKERS led by Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. have opposed the proposal of the Department of Finance (DOF) to increase the Value-Added Tax (VAT) from the current 12 to 14 percent.

Belmonte said the proposal was anti-poor.

“I am against it,” Belmonte said. It is not a good idea [to increase the VAT]. VAT hits everybody, and Filipino people should not be burdened further with VAT increase,” Belmonte added.

Belmonte stressed that any proposal to increase the current VAT rate would not likely prosper in Congress.

Reps. Ben Evardone of Eastern

Samar and Jonathan de la Cruz of Abakada party-list asked the DOF to restudy its proposal. “[The DOF] should rethink it because VAT affects everybody. It will have negative impact on the entire sector of society,” Evardone said.

De la Cruz, member of the House Independent Bloc of Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, said the DOF should maintain the VAT rate at 12 percent.

“But the DOF must review all payroll taxes so we put more money in the pocket of ordinary citizens,” he said.

The DOF has agreed to the proposal to lower the individual tax rates but increase the VAT from 12 percent to 14 percent.

In a memorandum, the DOF asked President Benigno Aquino III to endorse its proposed “Comprehensive Tax Reform Package” which includes an all-in income tax exemption of P1 million to all wage earners.

The department also proposed to raise VAT from 12 percent to 14 percent and expand VAT based by removing all exemption except agriculture, health, banks, education and remove zero-rating except direct exports.

On the other hand, the pro-

posal to lower individual tax rates is up for consideration before the House committee on ways and means, chaired by Marikina Rep. Miro Quimbo.

The measure aims “to overhaul the income tax system to adapt to present realities, to correct the current income tax situation wherein minority of Filipino workers pay the majority of tax payments, the middle class shoulders the bulk and households headed by the selfemployed have the lowest tax participation rates.”

Under the bill, individuals earning below P180,000 annually shall be exempted from paying income tax. In the current setup, individuals earning P10,000 or less per month pay 5-percent income tax.

CONTINUING STRUGGLE. Noel Acosta, an art enthusiast, appreciates a painting created by a Batanes artist Randalf Dilla, with the

title #What Now, depicting the cycle of struggle of Filipino heroes against different social problems of the Philippines at the Hiraya Art Galleria along United Nations Avenue in Manila. Filipinos will celebrate National Heroes Day on Monday. On Saturday, August 29 marked the beginning of the Cry of Pugad Lawin in 1896, which signaled the Philippine revolution against the Spanish colonizers. DANNY PATA

EBDANE GETS DILG AWARD CLARK, Pampanga—Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. is now reaping his rewards and receives the Seal of Good Local Governance for his commitment to the principles of performance, accountability, transparency and participation.

No less than Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II has conferred the seal of award to Ebdane.

The Seal of Good Local Governance symbolizes the province of Zambales’ journey toward good local governance in upholding the standards of transparency, integrity and service delivery.

Ebdane has also been recognized for his performance in disaster preparedness, social protection, business friendliness, competitiveness, peace and order and environmental management.

“We thank the agency for recognizing our efforts and accomplishments. This award inspires us to do better,” he vowed.

One of the high-priority projects of the governor is the elderly benefit programs for the province’s 45,000 senior citizens.

Earlier, Ebdane was a recipient of this year’s 2nd PMA alumni award’s highly coveted Cavalier Award for Public Administration category in the 116th foundation of the Philippine Military Academy at Fort del Pilar, Baguio City.

The much-coveted Seal of Good Local Housekeeping of the Department of Interior and Local Government is conferred to a local government for its adherence to the full disclosure policy and good practices of accountability and transparency.

“I am so glad for this prestigious award. I also thank the people of Zambales for working with us to bag the Seal of Good Local Governance,” Ebdane said.

The provincial government has received cash incentives to be used to fund programs and projects for the constituents.

SUNDAY: AUGUST 30, 2015

Roderick T. dela Cruz EDITOR business@thestandard.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

RITCHE Weekun and Georg Steiger left their highly-paid jobs in management consulting firm McKinsey & Company in Singapore to start a new website in Manila that helps Filipinos find jobs overseas.

Within a month of launching the website, OFWguru.com has attracted hundreds of applicants and many of them quickly found jobs posted by recruitment agencies.

“It is really a website for OFWs to find a good job,” says Steiger, an Austrian national, who now lives in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, referring to OFWguru.

The website currently has hundreds of job listings for private nurses in Qatar, factory workers in Taiwan, waitresses in UAE, carpenters in New Zealand, engineers in Saudi Arabia, sales ladies in Dubai and physical therapists in the US. Steiger describes OFWguru as the Philippines’ first free job-listing site specifically designed to connect recruitment agencies accredited by Philippine Overseas Employment Administration and the overseas Filipino workers.

He says OFWs are a big part of the Philippine economy and should be protected. “We have to make sure they don’t fall prey to illegal recruiters. There are a lot of things that can be improved,” says Steiger.

Weekun says he is optimistic about the potential of the website, as the OFW population continues to grow. “There are about 4,500 OFWs being deployed everyday, versus 2,800 Filipinos getting a job in the country everyday. Every year, 1.7 million Filipinos are deployed overseas,” he says in an interview in Makati City.

Steiger says OFWguru had a soft launching in early August 2015 and now registers 5,000 visits a day. “We heard from one agency that they had a recent posting and out of 40 applicants that came to the interview, 35 were referred by the website. They were very happy and very surprised,” says Steiger.

Weekun, himself a former OFW, joined Steiger in OFWguru early this year. The website now employs about 10 people in their office in Ermita, Manila, near most recruitment agencies.

“I was also in Singapore with McKinsey. We worked together, mostly covering financial services.

Before McKinsey, we were doing IT stuff as well,” says Weekun.

The two website founders discovered an unmet need among OFWs for a website that posts jobs accredited by POEA. “We were looking at the OFW segment. We were looking at other businesses as well in the financial services space. The more we look at OFWs, the more we saw there is quite a big opportunity to improve how things can be done,” says Steiger.

“I basically landed in the Philippines because I have some friends here, who are former clients. The startup climate here is pretty good.

If you look in last one or two years, there have been a lot of happenings in the startup scene. It is very vibrant. That basically is why we decided to start this in the Philippines,” he says.

BUSINESS

B1

Razer CEO Min-Liang Tan

OFWguru.com founders Ritche Weekun and Georg Steiger

AUSTRIAN, FILIPINO FORM WEBSITE FOR OFW JOBS

Steiger says while OFWguru is not the first website to announce job openings for OFWs, it offers many features that make browsing a lot easier. “What you have in the marketplace is really messy in terms of presentation. It is just difficult. We actually have agencies that looked at our site for the first time and found it so much easier, cleaner. That’s one thing. Another is ease of use, ease of interaction from the job recruitment side and job seeker side,” he says.

Steiger says recruitment agencies can post their job orders on OFWguru website for free. “The only requirement is that they should be

POEA approved and in good standing. We actually refresh our database on a daily basis. We are following the POEA list,” he says.

Weekun says it is important to follow the list of POEA to protect the job hunters. “POEA generates a list in their website, which agencies changed status. We monitor pretty often any changes in agency status.

If it is suspended, we basically hide their job listings,” he says.

Steiger says OFWguru decided to make all job postings free for the agencies. “Our goal is to have the entire OFW job market in our database. We want to make sure we have as many jobs as there are, so

that job seekers will have a better choice for jobs,” he says.

He says OFWguru also joined Internet.org, a Facebook initiative for free Internet access so that it can be available to more OFWs. “We are getting about 5,000 hits a day,” Steiger says. “Job seekers are sending 300 applications to recruitment agencies a day.”

Steiger says the number of applicants can be higher, because others decide not to fill out their online forms and instead directly go to the office of the recruitment agencies that posted job postings at OFWguru. “Agencies usually post interview dates and people can just go,” he says.

Weekun says the website continues to evolve with more features.

To generate traffic in the site, the company asked 100 pedicabs along Mabini Street to carry OFWguru tarpaulins.

“You would be surprised with our pedicab tarpaulins. They have been around Mabini. We are printing 200 more. But we get calls from as far as Ortigas and Makati recruitment agencies and they are basically calling how to register as a recruitment agency in our site,” says Weekun.

Weekun says aside from the job search, OFWguru also has a guide page that helps OFWs understand the steps in working overseas.

Steiger says they are currently developing a financing model for the website. “The most simple way to generate revenues is premium services, where agencies will be able to post more prominent job postings and improve their internal processes. There are a couple of premium services that we might launch in the future. Frankly, right now, our concern is how to grow the platform as fast as possible,” he says.

Steiger says their goal is to be the leading website for OFWs. “If you ask me what success looks like, I would say a year from now, every OFW will check our website if they are looking for posting abroad.

They will see us a very valuable resource for them to find jobs, to find information,” he says.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

SUNDAY: AUGUST 30, 2015

B2

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

Commutters form dizzying queues along Edsa on the way to the North Ave. station of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 in Quezon City.

MRT COMMUTERS LOSE MILLIONS OF MAN-HOURS HUNDREDS of commuters formed dizzying queues outside North Ave. station of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 along Edsa in Quezon City at 8 a.m. of Aug. 28 and endured at least an hour of waiting for their turn to ride the train bound for the southern part of Metro Manila.

By the time they boarded the train at 9 a.m., many of them complained about being late for work or missing their appointment, resulting in lost productivity or opportunity. The scenario is true in all stations of MRT 3 and the two other overhead rail systems in Metro Manila—the Light Rail Transit Line 1 and LRT Line 2.

It is estimated that millions of man-hours are lost each day, as more than a million people wait for their turn for an hour or more before riding the three rail systems, which are supposed to make travel faster and easier for passengers. A man-hour refers to an average hour of work performed by an individual.

Passengers in Quezon City, however, chose to endure the long lines, because the other alternative—riding the bus or taxi cab along Edsa would take longer than the MRT 3 trip as the road below is heavily congested, with several stretches of Edsa looking like a parking lot.

Economic losses Senator Paolo Benigno Aquino, citing a study by Japan International Cooperation Agency, said heavy traffic in Metro Manila results in P2.4 billion worth of economic losses each day and this figure may reach P6 billion by 2030, if the government fails to address the heavy traffic.

“Commuters as well as private vehicle owners suffer the monstrous and extremely costly traffic

every day in Metro Manila,” Aquino said, as he filed Senate Resolution No. 1532, seeking to review the existing roadmap for transport infrastructure development.

The study shows that lowerincome households will be most affected when congestion worsens by 2030, as they are expected to spend at least 20 percent of their monthly household income for transport.

“Without intervention, traffic will likely increase by 13 percent in 2030, and transport cost will be 2.5 percent higher,” Aquino said.

Among the factors that contributed to the worsening traffic condition is the significant population increase in Metro Manila which now stands at 16.5 million.

Over the past five years, more than a million vehicles were added to Philippine roads, as more Filipinos joined the ranks of the middle-class, amid the growing economy.

Not acceptable The road condition is not acceptable, according to the Management Association of the Philippines, a group of business leaders.

“The severe traffic and transportation problems are not without solutions but they will require immediate, firm and resolute action from the national leadership.

The status quo is not acceptable.

Inaction is not an option,” MAP executive director Arnold Salvador said in a strongly worded proposal.

MAP proposed a holistic ap-

proach on addressing the traffic and transportation problems of Metro Manila. It said the first step is to recognize the severe traffic and commuter transportation situation in Metro Manila and the great detriment it is causing on the people, the economy and environment.

“Various sectors of society and the economy are reeling from the adverse effects of these urban problems,” the group said, adding that the problems are not totally insurmountable.

MAP asked President Benigno Aquino III, together with the bureaucracy at the national and local levels in Metro Manila, to take the strongest possible measures to immediately and squarely address these twin urban problems of severe traffic and transportation problems.

It said the severe traffic congestion and commuter transportation problems besetting the metropolis are behavioral and structural in nature, and should be addressed accordingly.

“These problems evolved over a long period of time, should be addressed through the three most basic elements of effective traffic management – road engineering, education of all stakeholders and enforcement of traffic rules,” it said.

Twin problems It said contributing to the traffic and transport problems were severe deficiency in mass transit systems, unsustainable urban development practices and ineffective governance structure of the metropolis.

“MAP recommends a comprehensive and holistic approach consisting of immediate and long-term measures. The immediate measures will yield the earliest relief for motorists and commuters,” the group said.

It said long-term “hard” infra-

structure measures, some of which are already being rolled out by the current administration, will address the structural deficiency and, when completed, provide longterm sustainable improvement.

Traffic czar MAP also called for the appointment of a traffic czar who will be in charge, when gridlock grips the metropolis. It specifically recommended Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras to be the traffic czar, who will take overall charge of all matters related to or affecting traffic and road management, including the implementation of necessary road engineering refinements, on all national roads.

It said the traffic czar should introduce road engineering refinements. “Good road engineering is essential to effective traffic management and efficient traffic flow. Much common sense, quick and inexpensive road engineering fixes will help control traffic. Such measures must be quickly introduced in major national roads as they have proven to be effective in addressing the previously problematic traffic on Ayala Avenue in the Makati business district and other congested cities elsewhere,” it said.

The group said the government should also upgrade existing major national roads into expressways. “Urban expressways, being intersection-free, facilitate easy ingress to and egress from busy downtown districts, aside from providing fast circulation for urban traffic,” it said.

MAP said good examples of urban expressways can be found in densely populated Hong Kong, where the HK Island Eastern Corridor stretches through the entire length of the eastern side from one end, going right through the con-

gested downtown central financial and commercial district up to the other end of the island.

The well-engineered road has no intersections, road lanes are well defined with international standard markings, signage and concrete delineator to segregate commuter buses from interrupting vehicles on the fast lanes.

MRT rehabilitation Back to MRT Line 3, MAP said the system needs rehabilitation. “A train system is the most efficient, convenient and affordable people mover. MRT 3 must be quickly and properly rehabilitated, and its passenger capacity greatly expanded,” it said.

MAP said the MRT 3 system, being in place, provides the fastest option for quickly addressing commuter capacity deficiency on Edsa. “All efforts must be quickly taken to resolve any outstanding issues that stand in the way for such improvement,” it said.

Edsa subway MAP also proposed a highcapacity subway system under the entire length of Edsa. “The presence of numerous large shopping malls, government institutions, business districts and massive residential housing complexes along Edsa will ultimately require a high-capacity heavy subway system,” it said.

The group called on the president to issue an executive order to reserve the first underground level as the right of way for a future Edsa subway to pre-empt all possible intersecting subway lines, such as the proposed Bonifacio Global City to MOA subway line that will necessarily traverse Edsa.

“The government must be ahead of the curve and anticipate the heavy future demand of commuters along the entire stretch of Edsa,” it said.

Roderick T. dela Cruz

SUNDAY: AUGUST 30, 2015

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

CCA MANILA ALUMNA WINS

IN LAS VEGAS CULINARY CHALLENGE YOUNG, smart and talented, fast-rising Chef Elsa Sabellano-Jenstad has all the perfect makings of a successful professional. While she impresses many with her outstanding accomplishments in her craft, her journey to culinary success is one that is not achieved easily.

Chef Elsa is proud to rise from all the hardships -- moving towards a bright culinary career path nurtured by her natural leadership abilities, passion for cooking, and solid academic training from the Philippines’ pioneer culinary institution, the Center for Culinary Arts or CCA, Manila..

“My mother didn’t have the resources to send me to culinary school. So she decided to send me to Ateneo de Davao University through a scholarship. I finished my BSBA-Marketing degree as a full-time working scholar,” Chef Elsa says.

“Even with a degree, I still didn’t give up my dream of be-

at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Las Vegas.

Right education True to her words, Chef Elsa has become a consistent top contender in many school-organized competitions, actively pitting her culinary skills against fellow students. One such major highlight is the recent Chase Sapphire Preferred Grill Challenge 2015 held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas where she was declared the grand prize winner.

“I submitted an entry to Bon Appetit New York for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Grill Challenge 2015 competition. I wanted to enter this contest not only for

CCA Alumna chef Elsa Sabellano-Jenstad (left) and Krista Burdick, pose with chefs Emeril Lagasse (left) and Michael Mina at the Chase Sapphire Preferred Grill challenge during Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appetit in Las Vegas.

CCA Alumna chef Elsa Sabellano-Jenstad in action, with celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse coming a professional chef someday. My love for cooking started as a child, when I would assist my grandmother in the kitchen and spend time intently watching cooking shows on TV. I also collected clippings of recipes from magazines or newspapers back in high school,” she says.

For her culinary dream to take flight, Chef Elsa entered CCA, Manila-Oceana campus where she successfully finished her six-month Fast Track for Professional Chef Program. After graduating with flying colors in June 2010, Chef Elsa left for the US and landed a job at the Atlantis Steakhouse of Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, Nevada, as head of the pantry station for three years.

By November 2014, Chef Elsa decided to pursue higher studies

the prize but also to show that I can cook excellent food and that Filipinos are fabulous cooks,” Chef Elsa says.

After a tedious selection process which merits were based on the student’s background and performance in school, Chef Elsa was eventually chosen by Bon Appetit New York and Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, Las Vegas. “Being selected was a great opportunity and an honor,” she says.

Competing alongside one of America’s famous celebrity chefs, Chef Emeril Lagasse, is regarded as a wish fulfilled by Chef Elsa.

“It was a great opportunity to be paired with a famous celebrity chef here in the US. It was a once in a lifetime experience. Chef Emeril was so nice, and a down to earth person, cool and friendly.”

“I incorporated lemongrass for a Filipino taste, and okra for the New Orleans flavor. Thus I sought to prepare a French Bouillabaisse with an Asian and New Orleans twist. I just focused myself on what to do. I had already prepared my game plan before the competition so I felt ready,” she says.

Combined hard work and ingenuity eventually paid off, as the pair was declared the ultimate winners, with Chef Elsa receiving a $20,000 scholarship. “This win was crucial for me. First, it helped enormously with my tuition fee. Secondly, I wanted to show everyone that I can cook. Third, I wanted to inspire my fellow countrymen that you can achieve your dreams if you have discipline, determination, and work hard.

Fourth, this was important for

my future career. I met some famous chefs during the competition, and I want to have connections with them.”

The next level Amid a promising professional career, Chef Elsa proudly underscored CCA’s role in deepening her passion for cooking and proficient kitchen skills, as well as her high regard for Filipino cuisine. “My six-month program helped me a lot. It strongly prepared me for the next level of my career.

Just like how my instructors in Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts are inspiring me, my CCA mentors instilled in me valuable lessons like professionalism, discipline and hard work,” she says.

Apart from her latest achievement, Chef Elsa is doing superb work in her academics. “I am proud to maintain my 4.0 GPA at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, Las Vegas. I am

a consistent ‘A’ student, on the President’s Honor Roll and have perfect attendance,” she says.

As one of CCA, Manila’s successful alumni, Chef Elsa says that while having confidence and a self-starter attitude greatly influence a culinary student’s future in the industry, she maintains that the skills and practices learned while in school are what leverages aspiring chefs.

“The discipline and the ethical work practices, not to mention the degree of practical kitchen onthe-job training that I received from my CCA mentors have truly prepared me for the real world,” she says.

“A solid academic foundation is very important for students to fully harness their passion for cooking, and interest in lifelong learning. These factors will best prepare tomorrow’s Filipino culinary workforce for exciting and fulfilling careers in the industry.”

Chef Elsa Sabellano-Jenstad (left) receives her prize for winning the Chase Sapphire Preferred Grill Challenge

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world

syria forces, rebels clash as truce ends A brief truce between Syrian regime forces and rebel groups in three key towns ended early Saturday as the warring parties resumed clashes and shelling, a monitoring group and a mediator said.

Pro-regime forces, including Lebanon’s Shiite Hezbollah militia, had agreed on a 48-hour ceasefire, until dawn on Saturday, in the rebel bastion of Zabadani and the government-held villages of Fuaa and Kafraya.

“The ceasefire has collapsed in Zabadani, Fuaa,

and Kafraya this morning,” said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

A Kafraya resident speaking to AFP by phone said “dozens of shells have fallen on the town since early morning.”

According to Abdel Rahman, “there are clashes and

shelling in Zabadani, and opposition fighters are shelling Fuaa and Kafraya.”

But he had no details on who initially began firing and whether there were any casualties.

Fuaa and Kafraya, the last two regime-held villages in Syria’s northwest Idlib province, have been surrounded by a rebel alliance including Al-Qaeda’s affiliate Al-nusra Front.

The siege came in retaliation for a fierce offensive on Zabadani, along Syria’s border with Lebanon, by pro-regime forces early last month.

Warring parties were negotiating to reach a broader deal including rebel fighters leaving Zabadani and the evacuation of civilians from Fuaa and Kafraya.

But the talks failed overnight.

The resumption of hostilities was confirmed by Mohammad Abu Qassem, secretary general of Syria’s Tadamun (Solidarity) Party and a mediator of the truce.

“The truce has ended, the negotiations have failed, and military operations have resumed in Zabadani, Fuaa,

and Kafraya,” he told AFP. This marks the second time a local ceasefire has collapsed for the three towns this month.

The first ceasefire began on August 12 as a 48-hour truce and was extended for another day as negotiators tried but also ultimately failed to reach a broad deal.

The earlier talks also faltered before reaching an agreement on Zabadani’s fighters and the fate of civilians in Fuaa and Kafraya, whose residents are minority Shiite Muslims. AFP

a severely-burned young boy is fed as he lies in the Intensive care Unit (IcU) at a hospital in the rebel-held area of Douma, east of the capital Damascus, following reported mortar shelling by Syrian government forces on august 28, 2015. AFP

MyanMar OKayS FIrST EVEr naT’L MInIMUM WaGE MyAnMAR’S government has approved the country’s first-ever national minimum wage, state media reported on Saturday, after months of bitter negotiations with labour groups and employers.

The wage has been set at 3,600 kyat ($2.80) “for a standard eight-hour work day” and takes effect from Tuesday, said the staterun Global new Light of Myanmar newspaper.

It will apply to workers “across all sectors and industries” but small businesses employing less than 15 people will be excluded, it added.

Myanmar has seen a wave of protests for better pay and conditions, particularly among workers in the growing garment sector, after decades of direct junta rule came to an end in 2011.

The decision on the wage, announced by the national Minimum Wage Committee on Friday, follows several rounds of talks between the government, labour groups, employers and workers since a law approving its introduction was passed in 2013.

It comes as part of the plethora of political and economic reforms introduced under the quasi-civilian government that has also seen a growth in foreign investment, with big brands looking to move into the nation after most international sanctions were dropped.

But even the low sum reached had been vehemently opposed by some employers who claim that low worker productivity in Myanmar meant they could not afford to pay more.

Pressure to adopt a fair minimum wage has also come from outside with a number of Western manufacturers arguing that poor pay was counterproductive. AFP

nEW OrLEanS MOUrnS, cELEbraTES 10 yEarS aFTEr KaTrIna

People dance during a jazz funeral ceremony at Dillard University on august 28, 2015 in new Orleans, Louisiana. The traditional ceremony was held at the historic africanAmerican university, which was heavily damaged by flooding from Hurricane Katrina. AFP

neW Orleans will mark the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina Saturday with solemn memorials and boisterous brass bands as the “Big easy” remembers those lost to the devastating storm and celebrates its resilience.

“Come hell or high water— and we have had both—new Orleans is coming back,” Mayor Mitch Landrieu said at one of many memorials this week. “And we are coming back strong.”

More than 1,800 people were killed across the US Gulf Coast when Katrina struck on August 29, 2005.

A million people were dis-

placed and the financial toll topped $150 billion.

Landrieu and other dignitaries will mark the moment when the first levee was breached with a wreath-laying ceremony in the hard-hit Lower ninth Ward at 8:29 am (1329 GMT).

Later in the morning a “Resilience Fest” will feature a new Orleans-style “second line” marching brass band.

Other neighborhoods and cultural centers are scheduled to hold their own parties and parades before former president Bill Clinton speaks at an evening commemoration, with performances by

a number of Grammy-winning musicians.

The events commemorate the destruction of new Orleans—and the botched government response to the mounting crisis—which shocked the world.

Some 80 percent of the lowlying coastal city was swallowed by floods which rose as high as 20 feet (six meters) after the coastal city’s poorly-built levee system burst from the pressure of a massive storm surge.

The water came up so fast some people drowned in their homes. Hundreds more were stranded on their rooftops. AFP

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WORLD editorial@thestandard.com.ph

Malaysians gather in capital to deMand reforMs

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south sudan’s president salva kiir (center) signs a peace agreement as kenya’s president Uhuru kenyatta (back left), ethiopia’s prime Minister hailemariam desalegn (back 2nd left) and Uganda’s president yoweri Museveni (back centre) look on in Juba, on august 26, 2015. the deal is designed to end 20 months of civil war, but kiir also issued a list of “serious reservations” warning the deal might not last. the signing ceremony, held in the capital Juba in the presence of regional leaders, came hours after the Un security council threatened immediate action if kiir failed to put his name to the accord, which has already been signed by rebel leader riek Machar. AFP

UN Urges immediate soUth sUdaN ceasefire www.thestandard.com.ph

The UN Security Council on Friday called on South Sudan’s warring sides to immediately begin a ceasefire agreed as part of a new peace deal and threatened sanctions against those who undermine the accord.

Under the terms of the peace deal, the ceasefire is due to come into effect on Saturday, but President Salva Kiir has already ordered his troops to halt operations and remain in their barracks.

In a unanimous statement, the 15-member council called on the sides “to adhere to the permanent ceasefire immediately” as outlined in the agreement to end the

20-month conflict in South Sudan.

The council expressed “its readiness to consider appropriate measures” including “an arms embargo and additional targeted sanctions.”

Facing the threat of international sanctions, Kiir signed the deal on Wednesday but annexed a list of reservations that he said would have to be addressed for

the deal to take hold in the world’s youngest nation.

Rebel leader Riek Machar had signed the deal a week earlier.

Fighting erupted in december 2013 when Kiir accused Machar of planning a coup, unleashing a wave of killings that has split the country along ethnic lines. at least seven ceasefires have already been agreed and then shattered within days or even hours.

The deal gives the rebels the post of first vice president, which means that Machar would likely return to the job from which he was sacked in July 2013, an event which put the country on the path

to war later that year.

Tens of thousands of people are thought to have died in a war marked by ethnic killings, gang rapes and child soldier recruitment.

The council said that those responsible for human rights violations must face justice.

Some 2.2 million people have been driven from their homes in the conflict. about 200,000 terrified civilians are sheltering at Un bases.

The United States has presented a draft Un resolution imposing an arms embargo and targeted sanctions on individuals who block provisions of the peace accord. AFP

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ThoUSandS of Malaysians streamed into central Kuala Lumpur on Saturday to call for the prime minister’s ouster over corruption allegations and demand broader reforms, spurning warnings by police who have declared the rally illegal. ordinary citizens converged on the capital’s historic heart, many of them defiantly wearing the yellow t-shirts—banned by the government—of Malaysia’s leading pro-reform movement for the beginning of a planned two-day rally.

But early arrivals were encountering roadblocks set up at key points and manned by a heavy security presence determined to thwart plans for an overnight occupation of the capital’s central Independence Square.

Members of Prime Minister najib Razak’s ministers have admitted he received nearly $700 million in mysterious deposits into his personal bank accounts starting in 2013.

The revelation, brought to light by the Wall Street Journal last month, has angered many Malaysians, including members of najib’s ruling party, already fed up with recurring government graft scandals.

“We want to show najib that a lot of people don’t want him,” said Sheila devaraj, 58, a retired school teacher.

Echoing the concerns of many, she complained of rising prices, worries over economic growth and the nation’s plummeting currency.

“The (najib) scandal is an insult that adds to all our sufferings,” she said, dressed in yellow. AFP

kazakhstan celebrates 20th anniversary KazaKhSTan celebrates its 20th anniversary today, august 30, 2015, a momentous political and social event for the country, which continues to be recognized and respected by the world community as a sovereign state.

Kazakhstan has had five constitutions: the Constitution of the Kazakh SSR, 1926, the Constitution of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic in 1937, 1978's, and finally, the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan in 1993, 1995, which is a presidential form of government where the President rules over all branches of government.

The Constitution ensures the unity of the Kazakh people, which is represented by more than 130 nationalities.

It emphasizes the determination of the legal status of citizens and the foundations of its social order. It affirms the priority of human values and universally recognized norms of international law. The Constitution defines and guarantees the fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual.

The discussion of the draft Constitution of Kazakhstan in 1995 was attended by more than three million people of Kazakhstan. There were about 33 thousand collective discussions on the project, and almost 30 thousand suggestions and comments.

The 55 articles were the result of more than 1,100 amendments and additions that mirrored the sentiments of its citizens.

The Constitution sets out a framework of political structure—a unitary state, where the only source of state power is the people. The president, meanwhile acts as the guarantor and arbiter of the Constitution and coordinate the functions of all the branches of govenment, its continuity, and public administration. Luis T. Arriola

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SPORTS

REUEL VIDAL EDITOR

By Peter Atencio

W

ITH both parents living in the United States, elder brother Rome Dela Rosa promised to take care of younger sibling Ry. Whenever he has the time, former San Beda Red Lions cager Rome would come to the Arena in San Juan every chance he got.

He would try to watch every game of the San Beda Red Cubs in the ongoing 91st National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) junior basketball tournament which they finished with a nine-game sweep.

For the entire first round, Rome, now in his second season playing for the Alaska Aces in the PBA, would take time out to watch his younger brother Ry play his role as a guard as one of the defensive players of the team.

Last Tuesday, Aug. 25, Rome missed the Red Cubs’10th game because of practice.

He was glad to know that that Red Cubs beat the Emilio Aguinaldo CollegeImmaculate Conception Academy Brigadiers, 10083, for their 10th consecutive victory.

Ry, on the other hand, is not one of the starters of the team. But, the 5’10 guard, who was given a defensive role by coach JB Sison, still contributed in his own little way in keeping other members of the opposing team at bay with his guarding.

“I did my role as a defensive player. I did my best,” said Ry, who is in second year with the Red Cubs, and in his 10th grade with the school.

Ry is the second son of former basketball great Romeo de la Rosa to enter the Philippine collegiate basketball scene after Rome did from 2010 to 2013.

And Rome was around when the Red Lions won four of the last five crowns they earned in men’s basketball.

As for Ry, Rome said he wants his brother to get a feel of what it’s like to play with the Red Cubs, who have experienced a string of title conquests from 2009 to 2014.

“I told him to come join us and get a feel of the college game here,” recalled Rome when he made efforts to convince Ry to return to Manila from their home in San Diego, Cali-

sports@thestandard.com.ph

DELA ROSA BROTHERS GET CHANCE TO SHOW TALENT IN THE NCAA

Former San Beda Red Lions and now Alaska Aces forward Rome Dela Rosa (11) dribbles past Barangay Ginebra San Miguel defender Sol Mercado (left). With both parents living in the US, Rome (above right) promises to look after younger brother Ry.

fornia in the United States.

The Dela Rosa brother grew to love the game of basketball after they watched their dad, Romeo, play the game while with teams of the Shell Turbo Chargers and the Sta. Lucia Realtors in the PBA, and then the Negros Slashers in the Metropolitan Basketball Association.

“It was more of my dad, who was our influence.

Napapanood namin ang laro niya,” said Rome.

The two brothers grew up in San Diego, California and said their favorite sport was originally baseball. Being true athletes they enjoyed playing it with club teams in the Little League series.

They still played basketball, at their school which was Samuel F. Moore High School.

The speed and agility which Rome learned as a

third basem a n and catche r , helped him improve his game as point guard with the Red Lions.

As for Ry, this also helped him adjust to the playing style of the Red Cubs.

Before Ry moved to the Philippines he started playing in Team B last year, he saw action for his school, which won the Eastern High School championship.

Comparing the style of play he experienced, Ry said the game was more physical out here in the National Collegiate athletic association.

“It was actually pretty hard for me to change the way I’m playing. It was

more physical, the style here.

And there’s the running game, and more on fast breaks,” saidd Ry, who turned 17 last Aug. 23.

For now Ry, is not one of the top five players of the Red Cubs, who Sison relies much on, even in the second round. But he still plays his best and does his job in the limited time he has on the floor with his norms of 3.87 points and 1.87 rebounds.

But once he’s adjusted, Ry vows to do more for the team.

For now the Red Cubs are counting on their top

player Pedro Alfaro, who averages, 12.8 points and 3.2 rebounds.

There’s big man Sam Abuhijle (11.4 points, 8.9 rebounds), Albert Bordeus (8.7 points, 2.3 rebounds), Germy Mahinay (7.6 points, 4.9 rebounds) and Joshua Tagala (7.9 points, 6.6 rebounds).

Having won ten straight games in the first round and second round, and being part of the team that did it is something of an experience for Ry. “It’s a great memento for us,” said Ry. This (unbeaten record) makes us prepare because other teams will try to beat us because we’re the top team right now,” said Ry.

San Beda Red Cubs rising star Ry Dela Rosa (11) dribbles down court to start another San Beda fastbreak attack. PETER ATENCIO

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SPORTS

ARMAN ARMERO EDITOR

sports@thestandard.com.ph

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SERENA, DJOKOVIC

START DEFENSE OF US OPEN TITLES

W

ORLD number ones Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic will launch their bids for the US Open title on Monday’s first day of competition, tournament organizers announced Friday.

Reigning US Open champions Novak Djokovic (top) and Serena Williams start the defense of the men’s and women’s titles starting Monday at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. AFP

In a Twitter posting, the tournament said top halves of brackets on both the men’s and women’s draws would play matches on the first day of competition.

That means three-time defending champion Williams, trying to complete the first calendar-year Grand Slam since Steffi Graf in 1988, will meet Russia’s Vitalia Diatchenko on day one, likely in a feature match on Arthur Ashe Stadium and quite possibly in the night session opener.

Williams, coming off her fourth consecutive major title last month at Wimbledon, seeks her 22nd career Grand Slam singles title, which would match Graf for the all-time Open Era record and move her two shy of Margaret Court’s Djokovic, seeking his second US Open crown, will face Brazil’s Joao Souza in his opener on Monday while his possible quarter-

final opponent, Spanish star Rafael Nadal, begins Monday against Croatia’s Borna Coric.

The other top half quarter of the men’s bracket will see Japanese fourth seed Kei Nishikori, last year’s US Open runner-up, face France’s Benoit Paire in his first match while defending US Open men’s champion Marin Cilic, a ninth seed from Croatia, opens against Argentina’s Guido Pella.

The tricky quarterbracket with Williams also features her older sister Venus, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, meeting Puerto Rico’s Monica Puig in round one.

Russia’s Maria Sharapova, who has 18 losses in 20 meetings with Serena Williams but could face her again in the US Open semi-finals, launches her title bid against Australia Daria Gavrilova.

No exact times have been announced for any

matches on Monday.

In past years, the US Open schedule has seen the men play the first round over three days and set up a “Super Saturday” with the men’s semi-finals and women’s final.

But that scheduling was scrapped in favor of making sure the men and women each have an off day ahead of the championship match, which did not happen in the “Super Saturday” format.

Among the interesting openers that will not be played Monday are Swiss second seed Roger Federer against Argentina’s Leonardo Mayer, British third seed Andy Murray against Aussie bad boy Nick Kyrgios and Swiss fifth seed Stan Wawrinka against Spaniard Albert RamosVinolas.

Kyrgios sparked outrage after comments to Wawrinka during a match about his girlfriend having possibly been unfaithful.

DACQUEL IS NEW IBO FLYWEIGHT CHAMP

By Ronnie Nathanielsz FORMER Philippine super flyweight champion Rene “Commander” Dacquel has beaten the odds to win the IBO International super flyweight title with a split decision win over South Africa’s flyweight champion Thembelani Nxoshe in South Africa on Saturday, Manila Time.

The 24-year old Dacquel dropped the South African three times in the fight althoygh one knoxkdown was ruled a slip by the referee.

With the win, Dacquel who is a regular headliner on the Viva Sports weekly boxing show “The Main Event” telecast over PBO on Sky Cable on Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. with a replay on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. improved his record to 15-5-1 with 6 knockouts.

Dacquel who was accompanied by well-known matchmaker Art Monis of the United International Promotions of Japan/s Tyuta Kato was coming off a loss to Jonas Sultan by a twelve round unanimous decision last July 11 at the Mandaluying City Gym in a fight where he lost his Philippine title.

Nxoshe who dropped to 13-6-1 with 3 knockouts had earlier stunned highly favored Doctor Ntsele to lift the vacant South African f lyweight title at the Mdantsane Sports Center last November 10.

Boxing writer Mesuli Zifo reported that “coming to the fight Nxoshe was a dark horse despite compiling a 20-fight record with only three defeats while Ntsele, who hails from Free State but has lately made the Eastern Cape his second home, came with a great deal of clout having owned the same title before he was dethroned

by Mdantsane’s Lwandile Sityatha.

Amber Acosta of Diliman Preparatory School scores a roundhouse kick against her opponent in the 2015 Milo Little Olympics Regional Finals Taekwondo Leg held at the Cultural Center of Laguna in Sta. Cruz, August 29, 2015.

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RIERA U. MALLARI EDITOR sports@thestandard.com.ph

SPORTS

MAYWEATHER:

Floyd Mayweather Jr.: I had a good career. I won every world title, but boxing is wear and tear on the body. It’s time to hang ‘em up. AFP

TIME TO HANG UP MY GLOVES

By Ronnie Nathanielsz

UNDEFEATED pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather Jr. believes that it’s time to hang up his gloves, insisting his fight against Andre Berto at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sept. 12 will be his last.

During an open workout as he prepared for the Berto fight, Mayweather said: “Nobody knows what the future holds, but right now, I’m cool and comfortable and having no second thoughts at all about retirement.”

He added: “I had a good career.

I won every world title, but box-

ing is wear and tear on the body.

It’s time to hang ‘em up. I am looking forward to working with some up-and-coming kids, going on walks and taking vacations.”

But there are many, who doubt whether Mayweather will quit after he expectedly beats Berto and equals heavyweight champion

Rocky Marciano’s record of 49-0, believing that the temptation to beat the record and go 50-0 will be too much to ignore.

Eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao’s celebrated trainer Freddie Roach believes Mayweather will go for a 50-0 record, hoping that the Filipino ring icon will get a rematch.

Roach believes the Filipino southpaw could win such a rematch if he is completely healed from the rotator cuff tear in his right shoulder, which hampered him in a losing effort last May 2 to Mayweather.

The chance to make it 50-0 may prove irresistible as it would also

give him the chance to inaugurate the MGM Grand’s new 20,000seat arena in Las Vegas next year.

However, at the present time, the 38-year-old Mayweather said he’s glad his success gives him the chance to decide when to quit the ring, a choice many in the sport are denied.

“I’ve truly been blessed. I’ve taken my time, kept my eye on the prize and done what I’ve had to do. So I’m able to make a choice when to retire.

Most fighters really couldn’t,” said Mayweather.

He continued: “Boxing has always been work to me, a job. If I could say anything to a youngster

taking up boxing, it would be to be smart not take a lot of punches.

It’s called the sweet science for a reason. Hit and not be hit, make a lot of money without taking a lot of punishment. That’s what it’s about.”

Mayweather, who has come under fire for his choice of former welterweight champion Berto, who battled a severe shoulder injury two years ago, but returned to knock out Josesito Lopez in March, insisted that his foe can fight.

“He’s hungry. He comes to wage a war. There is never a dull moment when he fights, so I expect a hell of a fight out of him,” Mayweather said.

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TATUM ANCHETA EDITOR

BING PAREL A S S O C I AT E E D I T O R

BERNADETTE LUNAS

life @ thestandard.com .ph

WRITER

@LIFEatStandard

S U NDAY L IF E

LIFE Edmond Corpuz

Nilo Beltran

Nestor Puno

WHAT MAKES A PERSON A HERO?

Meet 3 ordinary migrant workers with extraordinary advocacies

BY BERNADETTE LUNAS

T

he Philippines is a land replete with heroes. They even say our nation attained its current state today thanks to the Filipinos who were brave enough to push for change and act on it. Decades ago, we had the likes of Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio and Apolinario Mabini, whose blood and sacrifice made our soil flourish and our countrymen proud. Today, we are lucky to have Edmond Corpuz, Nilo Beltran and Nestor Puno who ventured out of the country to give their families a better life and came back wanting to help more people in their own way.

Aside from our fellow Filipinos who risk their lives to protect and serve our country, we also consider overseas Filipino workers as modern day heroes. They cross the seas to work in foreign lands for years in order to give themselves and their loved ones a better shot at life, to grab opportunities that are not available here in our country despite being away from everything and everyone they know and love.

Remittances from migrant workers also drive our remittance-dependent economy. The simple act of sending money – money they work hard for – is already a great help to the country, but many OFWs are taking their effort a few notches higher, espousing advocacies to change other people’s lives for the better.

In celebration of Western Union Company’s 25th anniversary of “moving money for the better” in the Philippines, which also coincides with the National Heroes Day celebration tomorrow, August 31, 25 Filipino migrant workers are being honored for their invaluable contribution to their families, communities and country. These OFWs, based abroad or now back in the Philippines, did not just send money but gave back to their communities with their successful missions.

“Heroes for Better campaign celebrates the lives of migrant Filipinos, their work and their personal advocacies because they were the ones who were courageous enough to run after their dreams and even took it further by fulfilling other people’s dreams,” shares Patricia Riingen, Western Union senior vice president for Southeast Asia and Oceania.

when they get out they can start a new life with a new set of skills,” enthuses Beltran.

A SELFLESS DEVOTION TO HELP AND EDUCATE

Puno, Beltran and Corpuz share the inspiring stories of their advocacies.

Three of the 25 Filipino migrant heroes with Patricia Riingen, Western Union senior vice president for Southeast Asia and Oceania (middle) and Steve Peregrino, director for marketing for Southeast Asia and Oceania (rightmost).

CHANGING LIVES ONE PENCIL AT A TIME

“Have you ever heard of the story in barrio schools where one pencil is cut into three just so three pupils can use it? It’s true,” shares Edmond Corpuz, photographer, teacher and art director who founded the “Black Pencil” advocacy project that brings pencils, pens and other light school supplies to remote and indigenous communities in the Philippines.

According to Corpuz, his advocacy started as a social experiment. “Seven years ago when the era of digital photography was just starting, people my age wanted to travel and took up photography as a hobby. When we were in Ifugao we were advised not to bring candies so we thought to bring pencils and other school supplies instead,” he relates.

They realized that aside from photography, they could do something else, so they started with just 30 volunteers and their sole requirement is for each person to bring a pencil. Filipinos abroad who couldn’t join them in the actual giving soon started sending school supplies for those in far-flung areas,

something that made their civilian volunteer group wonder.

“I would email them asking: ‘Why are you sending pencils to me?’ And their answer would be: ‘Because I want to give back to my country, I want to have this opportunity to bring school supplies to Filipino communities’,” shares Corpuz, saying that is what makes many migrant Filipinos true modern day heroes.

Corpuz says these are what motivate them to continue their advocacy, which to date, has brought school supplies to 1,200 school children in rural areas.

There is one interaction in Babuyan Island in 2009 that Corpuz and his team will never forget: “When I gave the pencils to the teacher she cried and thanked us because we went to their community and she didn’t have money to buy pencils for her students. I asked why and she said, ‘If I don’t buy pencils for my pupils I can no longer become a teacher because my class will be dissolved’.” He narrated.

That kind of story make us believe that even a small thing like

a pencil can make things better,” says Corpuz.

SCHOOL WITHOUT BORDERS

After years of working as an engineer in Saipan, Nilo Beltran decided to return, telling colleagues that he will teach underprivileged Filipinos, out-of-school youth and inmates locked in jails. His friends laughed at him.

Today, his Skills Caravan, a non-profit organization, has been to underserved communities in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao teaching out-of-school youth and unemployed heads of families technical skills they could use to land jobs in the Philippines or even abroad. “We spend at least two weeks in a community equipped with training materials and a strong drive to help these people, and in return they give us food to eat during our stay,” shares Beltran.

They’re also receiving valuable support from friends abroad so they could finance their activities in jails across the country. “I want to help those inmates inside so

Many Filipinos think Japan is a land of a thousand opportunities, and while this holds true for many who have found their greener pasture in this country, many are not aware of the grim condition faced by undocumented Filipinos and other nationalities.

“Many children whose parents are both Filipinos or are not recognized by their Japanese fathers have limited freedom and welfare benefits, most particularly schooling benefits,” shares Nestor Puno.

As the coordinator and overall educator at the Ecumenical Learning Center for Children, a school for Filipino and Filipino-Japanese children, he teaches children aged 7-12 who cannot enroll in regular schools.

He also assists women who are victims of domestic violence in the Filipino Migrant Center and Nagoya Youth center. “Because their visa depends on their Japanese husbands, these women put up with the physical, mental and emotional abuse because once they get divorced they will be sent home here in the Philippines,” he explains.

While the Anglican community supports ELCC, Puno says they’re not getting enough help from other public or private groups. To help fund their projects and programs, they mount activities such as charity concerts.

HEROES RISE WHEN THEY’RE NEEDED

For Western Union, these three OFWs and the 22 other honorees are heroes but the awardees are hesitant to own such a noble title.

“I don’t consider what I’m doing as heroism because I believe that it’s normal for someone to step up and help those in need,” avers Puno.

“It’s not that we want to change the world, we just wanted to help in our own way.”

For Beltran, “A person is a hero when he’s doing something good for the betterment of his fellow citizens.”

Learn more about the inspiring stories of the top 25 Filipino migrants by visiting wuheroesforbetter.org

SUNDAY : AUGUST 30 : 2015

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LIFE life @ thestandard.com .ph

@LIFEatStandard

A LAND OF FOLLOW-UPS While people are comparing notes on their latest FIT (Food Intolerance Test), I think CAROTID ARTERY I just got the result for

BY TATUM ANCHETA my People Intolerance Test and I want to get a few of them out my system for the duration of the year.

Last year, my trusted old GSR Lancer was gasping its last breath. “Blue” (the name of my old car, well because it’s colored blue; don’t judge) had been a trusty companion. It has survived many floods and car accidents and it’s still parked in my garage until now. Everytime people would see me with my car they’d be like, “Hello yan pa din kotse mo?” “Ano ba get a new one na!” My friends were also getting tired of picking me up in the middle of the night because my car conked down on some road.

Sentimental me didn’t want to get rid of my first car, but last Christmas the mechanic said it might be dangerous to travel with it to the province. So, with a heavy heart I decided to finally get a new car to lessen my worries and stress, and stop burning a hole in my pocket for car repairs. I read reviews, talked to friends for suggestions and referrals on what car to get, and after window shopping I ended up in FORD BGC because some friends recommended it.

I don’t easily get persuaded by salesmen but if I like something I decide fast. And I tend to choose sales people who don’t annoy me much, but now I regret my choice.

I wanted an SUV because flooding has always been the enemy. But I also feel like its too big and I’m scared of maneuvering it around and end up killing something on the

road. After scouting and test-driving some cars, I ended up with the FORD Ecosport for its compact size, affordability, and the best selling point – “it wades through flood.”

I have a lot of friends who are car enthusiasts and racecar drivers but I know nothing about cars. I can’t pretend to write some technical sheez about it (let me direct you to Dino Directo on our Motoring section for that) but I am in love with my new Ecosport. I named her “Snow” (guess what color it is, lol). It doesn’t have the machinery for a real SUV as it carries the same engine as a Fiesta so sometimes it’s hard bringing it up a steep road or even getting it revved up just to bring it up the garage. But I’m content with the compact size because it’s easy enough for city driving. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of new leather interiors, a few digital upgrades on the dashboard, and a cute sunroof? Despite the bubbled tint job on the left window, I was happy because it doesn’t eat up gas like my trusty old “Blue.”

I brought it home to the province and was so glad that I didn’t have to worry about towing and overheating while on the

highway. It really felt like Christmas.

Then came New Year. I already used up the miles ready for the first service checkup so I brought it in for servicing and for the dealer to fix the bubbled window tint. This became the start of an awful relationship that still leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

Ford BGC – more than a car dealership, provides maintenance service for cars. In any industry, good service is worth more than any product you buy. You go to a shitty restaurant and if the servers are fast, friendly and efficient, you feel like you’ve eaten in a five-star restaurant. You even leave a tip because you felt so at home and taken cared of.

Ford BGC has, by far, one of the worst services I’ve experienced for something that is costing me hundreds of thousands of pesos. I brought in my car for them to take care of, but when I went to get it after servicing, my mom noticed deep fresh scratches on the plastic rear bumper and rear paint. Jun Galvez, Ford service advisor, looked stunned and said the scratches were probably there prior. Good thing there’s a checklist before

you have your car serviced – and the scratches clearly weren’t there when I brought the car in.

I was so upset. I only had it for a few weeks. I asked them if they had CCTV footage to check who was responsible for it. To top it off, the bubbled tint they were supposed to fix wasn’t fixed at all. They washed the car and it looked like a shitty car wash – the kind you get for P25. Jun just said they’d investigate and for me to bring it in again so they can fix the tint and the damage.

I texted my sales dealer Dominic Rosales to inform him about what happened and I also let their customer service staff Quincy know about what their service people did to my car.

They scratched the car January 10; I repeatedly contacted all of them everyday and I always got the “I will get back to you, ma’am” stock answer. Two days after, Quincy called me up and we agreed that someone can just get the car since I had no time to send it back to BGC. But then I figured – that’s scary.

How can you still trust them when they might end up scratching it again? So I told them I will bring it in myself and for the hassle that they are causing I will need a loaner car to replace my vehicle while they fix the damage.

I was busy transferring to another condo then, I had to go back and forth to transfer all boxes and stuff to my new place. In the middle of my move, I fixed my schedule to make it in the afternoon of their scheduled repair on January 17. That was during the weekend of the Pope’s visit to Manila. I got there, tired, and still dusty from moving, and they made me wait for hours only to find out that Jun Galvez was on leave and that no one was going to process papers for the car repair. I was furious! They made me go there for nothing.

By then I was screaming at them by the sales lobby for everyone to hear how bad their servicing was. And all I kept hearing from them was “We will get back to you ma’am.” They brought in my car to fix the bubbled window tint because that’s all they could offer.

(My ordeal didn’t end here, I will share the rest of my horror story in my next column.)

THE STAMP OF INTEGRATION Winning ASEAN commemorative stamp design launched at SM Aura

P The ASEAN handshake highlights ties that bind during the ASEAN Joint Commemorative Stamp launch at SM Aura Premier. In photo are Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Policy Evan Garcia (center) with Cambodian Ambassador Tuot Panha (2nd from left), Lao People’s Democratic Republic Ambassador Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune (5th from left), Singaporean Ambassador Kok Li Peng (5th from right), and Thai Ambassador Thanatip Upatising (4th from right). With them are PHLpost Assistant Postmaster General for Marketing Luis D. Carlo, Embassy of Brunei Darussalam Third Secretary Norkhalilah Roslin, the Embassy of the Union of Myanmar Second Secretary Chann Nyien Soe, DFA’s Executive Director Raymund Toledo, PHLPost Business Lines Department Manager Enrique Tagle and PHLPost Chief of Corporate Communication Melanie Cruz.

Taguig City Government’s City Economic and Promotion Officer Jorge Daniel Bocobo with DFA Director for ASEAN Affairs Aian Caringal.

Laotian Ambassador Phoxay DFA Undersecretary Khaykhamphithoune with SM SVP Evan Garcia beside the for Marketing Communications Philippines stamp panel.

Group Millie Dizon

Brunei Darussalam’s Third Cambodian Ambassador Tuot Panha with Secretary Norkhalilah Roslin PHLPost Assistant Postmaster General with SM Aura Premier Regional Luis Carlos.

Operations Manager Bernice Baculi

Singaporean Ambassador Kok Li Peng

ostal representatives from the 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries and three judges from the Universal Postal Union, the Asian-Pacific Postal Union and the ASEAN Secretariat have finally chosen the winning design for the 48th anniversary of the ASEAN Stamp Design competition held in Thailand.

The winning entry was from Vietnam, with the design showing the 10 flags of the ASEAN member countries unified in the form of a flower, with a pigeon in the background to symbolize the pacific aspect of the region. Below the flags, a handshake is portrayed to highlight the friendship that binds the nations while the golden rice are in reference to agriculture that is a main industry among ASEAN nations.

The winning stamp, which will be produced as a joint issue stamp to be used throughout the ASEAN region in 2015, was recently launched in the Philippines at the SM Aura Premier with members of the diplomatic

corps from ASEAN, officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Postal Office gracing the occasion, among them Singaporean Ambassador Kok Li Peng, Thai Ambassador Thanatip Upatising, Cambodian Ambassador Tuot Panha, Lao People’s Democratic Republic Ambassador Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune, DFA Undersecretary for Policy Evan P. Garcia and executive director Raymund Toledo. PHLPost’s Assistant Postmaster General Luis Carlos, Business Lines Department Manager Enrique Tagle, Corporate Communication chief Melanie Cruz and SM SVP for Marketing Communications Group Millie Dizon and SM Aura Premier’s Regional Operations Manager Bernice Baculi were on hand to welcome the guests.

In his speech, Undersecretary Garcia said that the ceremony for the joint issuance by all 10 ASEAN members-countries of the Commemorative Stamp is one simple yet effective way of spreading ASEAN awareness to the

The winning ASEAN postage stamp represents the 10 flags of ASEAN members unified in the form of flower, with a pigeon in the background, a handshake and golden rice flowers as additional elements.

people of South East Asia.

“Raising awareness is important because all 10 member-countries are building something bigger than just the sum of the parts of ASEAN. We are building an ASEAN community that is politically cohesive, economically integrated, socially responsible, and mindful of the future well being of its people,” he stressed.

PHLPost Assistant Post Master General for Marketing Carlo, on the other hand, noted that “stamps are very powerful. These are an old fashioned solution to our new problems. While some people may consider the building of the ASEAN Community a trade or business decision, we all know that cultural integration will determine its success. It’s a sharing of a history and a boundary.”

The colorful commemorative stamps will be sold in the Philippines at P13.00 each and only 101,000 copies have been printed.

SUNDAY : AUGUST 30 : 2015

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@LIFEatStandard

COMMITMENTS

KNOCKOUT PAIR

BY TEENA BARRETTO Photos courtesy of Nice Print Photography

“R

elationships are always stronger when you’re best friends first, and a couple second.”

Baroy Morga and Claudine Go, a happy-go-lucky couple that lovingly calls each other “mare” and “pare,” live by this very maxim.

“We complement each other in a lot of ways,” Baroy says. “Sweet, silly, and sexy.”

Their love story has an awkward beginning: Claudine is the exgirlfriend of Baroy’s good friend from work. “He was introduced to me by my ex-boyfriend just outside the audience entrance of ABS-CBN,” Claudine recalls. Baroy happens to be the head of Multiplatform Strategy and Business Development at ABS-CBN, while Claudine is an instructional designer at Western Union.

Back then, Baroy was the designated “go-between guy” whose main job was to “bridge” or mediate between Claudine and her boyfriend every time they would fight. As fate would have it, Claudine’s relationship with Baroy’s friend eventually fizzled out. Her friendship with Baroy, however, continued and remained strong.

Soon thereafter, Claudine and Baroy started hanging out together.

Although there were no sparks or amorous feelings between them back then, they surprisingly clicked.

“Feeling niya cute ako. Feeling ko mayabang siya (He felt I was cute. I thought he was a braggart,” Claudine teases.

To this day, Baroy maintains that it wasn’t him who made the first move.

“She did [make the first move]. She’s one of those girls that I feel likes me even if she tries to hide it,” he says, adding that it was his “boyish good looks” that sealed the deal for him. “I just liked her energy, her authenticity, and her thoughtfulness.”

Claudine, for her part, says that she was attracted to Baroy’s zest for life. “He is super passionate and he’s a perfectionist! On the other hand, my favorite words are ‘pwede na yan’ (that will do)!”

Claudine Go and Baroy Morga

No formal courtship took place.

Their first date, if you would call it such, was uneventful. “It wasn’t really a date. We had a few drinks at Cantina in Katipunan, because it was a boring Holy Week weekend,” recalls Baroy.

This informal dating stage went on for about two years. Since they shared the same interests and have a similar sense of humor, Baroy and Claudine eventually decided to take that giant leap of faith and put a label on their relationship.

Their decision, as it turned out, was the right one.

The best thing about Baroy and Claudine’s relationship is that when they’re together, they don’t feel the need to pretend to be something they’re not. Baroy and Claudine, who both laugh at the corniest of jokes, are happy and content just being in each other’s company.

“The authenticity. I appreciate not needing to pretend,” Baroy says.

Claudine can’t agree more.

When she’s with Baroy, she can let hair down and just be herself. “At home, we just chill out,” she shares.

The quirky couple shares a mutual weirdness only they know or understand.

“DVD marathon, then we’d have something salty and sweet. Always salty for me, but sweet for him.”

Apart from the fact that they love each other to bits, laughter has always been a vital ingredient in their relationship. Baroy and Claudine share a mutual weirdness that only they could appreciate and understand.

With a laugh, Claudine says that there have been times they would go on for days without taking a bath.

Neither of them would complain about it because they don’t mind each other’s smell anyway.

Part of the “fun” is competing with each other. But it’s the harmless, crazyfun kind of competition. Whether it’s choosing the best theme or color scheme for their wedding, which is happening in November, or simply deciding on what to wear for the day, one is always out to outsmart and outdo the other. Pulling pranks at each

other is also part of their everyday life.

“We always compete on a lot of things and we don’t get annoyed.

But now because of the stress due to wedding preparations, we find ourselves getting irritated with each over little things,” she says in the vernacular. Even though they do get in each other’s hair, Baroy and Claudine would always find a way to patch things up. They never sweat the small stuff. Baroy completely understands that being in this relationship means having to embrace their differences with open arms.

“We laugh at each other’s mistakes then learn from them,” he adds. “Love is accepting each other’s flaws and also making fun of them.”

He then offers an invaluable love advice: “Never forget to have fun while overcoming your difficulties together. I’m actually amazed at

how we still ended up with each other despite all the obstacles.”

Baroy and Claudine are set to get married in November this year.

Baroy admits that prior to meeting Claudine, he didn’t think marriage was meant for him. All of that changed when he met his match in Claudine.

Baroy, who likens their love story to the “cheesy but classic” 1989 Peter Cetera and Cher hit song “After All,” now sees a bright and colorful future with Claudine.

“Maybe 10 years from now, I guess, we’re still both struggling to be cool and at the same time trying not to be bad influencers to the children,” Baroy says, laughing.

Claudine jests, “Maybe we’d still be quirky but with more wrinkles.”

Turning serious this time, she adds, “I just feel relieved that I found someone like him with whom I really click.”

Biggest Wedding Expo at SMX Convention Center

C

ouples thinking about making their ties permanent and exchanging those two solemn words – “I do” – in the near future would do well to visit the WEDDING EXPO of the PHILIPPINES organized by Themes & Motifs and scheduled this September 12 to 13 at the SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

Considered the biggest name in the wedding fair industry not only in the Philippines but in all of Asia, the 27th edition of the Wedding Expo promises to be a two-day grand event that gathers the most respected and sought-after names in anything and everything related to weddings.

Only the very best and latest trends in saying “I dto” will be showcased by more than 400 participating wedding exhibitors and suppliers.

The SMX Convention Center ground floor will be converted to a 6,000-sq.m. wedding wonderland with the most creative and most popular wedding suppliers and professionals as fashion designers, caterers, photographers, videographers, limousine providers, invitation makers, hotels, venues, florists, and others will offer new promos and great deals to soon-toweds visiting the event.

Highlights of the expo include the photo and video festival KasaLitrato featuring Asia’s widest

selection of photographers and videographers, with Nice Print Photo leading the pack. The Wedding Fashion Extravaganza will have wedding gowns, suits, barongs, etc. for the entourage presented in a catwalk-inspired layout.

For hair and makeup, prospective brides may want to check out I Do HMU with free trial make up by participating exhibitors to help soon-to-be brides look radiant on their special day. Wedding Banquets Manila will create a semblance of the wedding day grandeur with Hizon’s Catering spearheading a free grand food tasting session within the main exhibit hall. At the Floral Fete area, event stylists and florists will enthrall with creative floral designs and fabulous set-ups in a showdown of creativity among the Philippines’ best of the best.

Top rated and popular Marriott Hotel Manila, a major sponsor, will showcase its latest wedding banquet packages and new world-class Grand Ballroom with its stateof-the-art technology.

Themes & Motifs invites all soon-to-weds and wedding professionals to regularly log on to their interactive wedding website which allows the users to connect and share their latest wedding ideas and promos at www.themesnmotifs.com. Every P1,000 worth of purchase in Wedding Expo Philippines 27th Edition is entitled to a raffle coupon for a chance to win a honeymoon trip to Hong Kong or a pair of sparkling diamond wedding rings from Goldenhills Jewelry.

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LIFE life @ thestandard.com .ph

Lola Basyang (played by veteran actress Luzviminda Fernandez) with an avid audience of kids.

@LIFEatStandard

Ballet Manila, headed by Lisa Macuja Elizalde, merited a standing ovation from the mesmerized audience at Aliw Theater during opening night. Encore!

The magical world of Lola Basyang in “Ang Kaptid ng Tatlong Marya.”

An enigmatic scene during “Ang Kapatid ng Tatlong Marya.”

There is beauty in form with the three Maryas of “Ang Kapatid ng Tatlong Marya.”

TALES ON TOES #INTHEMOMENT

BY FRANCIS DE LEON

If you find yourself getting subjected to a tongue-twisting challenge with the title of this Sunday’s column, my sincere apologies. Believe me, it was not intentional. However, I deliberately tickled your curiosity in line with my newly found love and appreciation for the performing arts and culture through Ballet Manila’s 20th Performance Season entitled “From Page to Stage.”

Just very recently, I received an invitation from The Society for Cultural Enrichment, Inc. (SCEI), an organization dedicated to the quest for conserving, promoting and developing culture and the arts headed by Angola Consul Helen Ong as president and chairman and Secretary Mimi Valerio. I courageously breezed through stormy weather to catch the wave (pun intended) at Aliw Theater and join the members to witness the season opener’s performance of “Tatlong Kuwento ni Lola Basyang” season opening.

Our gracious host, Ballet Manila’s Lisa Macuja Elizalde, treated us to a cocktail reception prior to the performance (to the delight of SCEI members). We thoroughly appreciated the kind hospitality bestowed on us. It was the beginning (just to whet our appetites) of a bigger spectacle that awaited us.

Ballet Manila through the leadership of its artistic director,

Lisa Macuja Elizalde, presented three enchanting tales of love, fantasy, and adventure from one of the most beloved Filipino storytellers – Lola Basyang – which is actually the nom de plume of Severino Reyes.

Long before the advent of the so-called digital age, children gathered around the radio for the evening’s story telling session with Lola Basyang (yes, the old-school radio series). The stories were read straight out of Lola Basyang’s massive anthology of enchanting and enthralling tales. Back then, radio listeners were transported to the vast limits of their own imagination as they created vivid images of characters and fantasies without boundaries.

“I got a fill of fantasy worlds and magical adventures from the fictitious Lola Basyang. I don’t think there’s any child who grew up in the Philippines who has not been touched by her stories,” shared Lisa Macuja Elizalde.

She added, “Whether published in books, serialized in komiks, acted out on radio, television and film, or retold by parents and teachers, these tales will forever be part of our Filipino heritage.”

Most importantly, amidst all the magical twists, Lola Basyang’s stories abound with life lessons on good morals and values that engaged and captivated its audience.

Which leads me (on a side note) to this recurring question: I wonder, given such circumstances, what generation shaped the smartest, most productive and highly responsible citizens of this country then? (Hmmm…) But that’s another (an idea for a thesis, perhaps?) story.

The “ladies who lunch” and appreciate ballet (from left) – Anna Litton, Tes Choa, Chichi Laperal, Lita Recto and Baby De Jesus.

SCEI members Edwin Madella and Gudy Lim support Bound by love for the performing arts: Winnie Powell-Mueller, Ballet Manila.

Princess Monjiera Disini, Tessie Luz and Susan Macuja.

The family that watches ballet together (stays together). The Boccone family (from Ballet Manila’s Lisa Macuja Elizalde welcomes Nonie Basilio left): Karen, Steven, Alexa and Tatiana. during the cocktail reception.

Maritess Pineda

Atty. Frankie Adriano, Susan Macuja and Annabelle Adriano during the opening cocktails.

Expect to be captivated, no less! A whole new generation will appreciate the splendid choreography and visual masterpiece of Ballet Manila as it tells the tales of Lola Basyang through the magic (with powerful toes on point!) of dance. The timeless tales of “Ang Prinsipe Ng Mga Ibon,” “Ang Kapatid ng Tatlong Marya,” and “Mahiwagang Biyulin” were visually stunning and beautifully choreographed with precision and enigmatic artistry accompanied by music that feeds the

SCEI’s Patty Jalbuena with granddaughter Samantha Concepcion, SCEI Secretary Mimi Valerio and Nonie Basilio.

soul. Truly, I was in the moment of utter rapture as I was transported to another world!

“For this very special year filled with celebration and gratitude, we have chosen the theme ‘From Page to Stage’ – promising you a carefully selected repertoire of enchanting ballets based on timeless stories that first came to life on the pages of a book,” expressed Lisa Macuja Elizalde on the occasion that marked the beginning of their 20th performance season.

Ballet Philippines director Joey Soriano with Princess Monjiera Disini.

Guardians of the arts and culture.

SCEI’s president and chairman, Consul Helen Ong with daughter Marian Ong-Nuguid.

Agile AbastillasZamora at the cocktail reception with Lisa Macuja Elizalde in her perfect form as background.

Join Ballet Manila on their (by far) most exciting season. In my book, they are fascinating storytellers on toes!

(Catch their 20th Performance Season from now until March 2016. For tickets, call 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph. For inquiries, call (+63 2) 400 0292) Follow me on Twitter or Instagram @francis_deleon8.

S UNDAY : AUGUST 3 0 : 2015

SHOWBITZ

ISAH V. RED EDITOR

isahred @ gmail.com

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AnnAstAcIA And LeI Are sM’s LIttLe stArs

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t was a shining night for Annastacia Beatriz Penny and Lei Andre Navarro, both seven years old and representing SM City North EDSA, when they were named SM Little Stars 2015 during the grand finals held recently at the SM Mall of Asia Center Stage.

Annastacia charmed the audience with her own rendition of the classic “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” while Lei was all high energy with his acting and dance performance to the tune of “Twerk It Like Miley” “Eh Kasi Bata,” and “Whong Dance Revo.”

They bested over 17 finalists in the annual nationwide search for cute, adorable and talented kids, and as Grand Prize Winners, they each received amazing prizes.

These included P200,000 cash and shopping money, and a five-day and four-night trip to China for two with round trip tickets, hotel accommodations and tour.

They were also entitled to a four-year college scholarship grant from National University; a

one year talent management contract with TV 5, P15,000 worth of Gift Cards from Toy Kingdom and a Ride-All-You-Can passes from SM Storyland for one year Other shining stars: first runner-up Dawn Arione Angela Ilagan of SM City Naga, who danced and declaimed; second runner-up Seth Levi Salada of SM City Davao; who amazed the audience with his drum performance; and third runner-up Aian Kurt Garcia of San Fernando Downtown, who acted and danced to remix music.

In the program hosted by Jasmine Curtis, the kids charmed the distinguished board of judges. These included Trumpets co-founder and president Audie Gemora, TV host and actress Gellie de Belen, director and TV 5 Talent Head Mac Alejandre, Beauty Queen Venus Raj and director and choreographer Joshua Zamora.

What makes an SM Little Star?

The Criteria for judging includes Star Quality, 30 percent; Personality, 20 percent; and Talent, 50 percent.

Gemora, who has been involved in SM Little Stars for over two decades now – first as a director, and now as judge, says, “It’s like coming home every year. I always look forward to a new batch of SM Little Star because there will always be a colorful mix of kids with unique personalities and talents.

It’s like Christmas when you look forward to finding gifts under the Christmas tree. Children are, after all, gifts from God.” Other finalists included SM City

Iloilo’s Raphaela Aguila and Arnell John Borre, SM City Marilao’s Kyle Ian Baterna, SM City Cagayan De Oro’s Leanne Margaret Cajulao, SM City Bicutan’s Leandro Comia, SM City Lucena’s Liam Thaddea Paglicawan, SM City Manila’s Sofia Novielle Santos, SM City General Santos’ Ma. Teresa Sagario, SM Center Las Pinas’ Aiyana Kailyn Silva, and SM City Muntinlupa’s Jeanne Elisha Ventura, and Jian Arthur Wills.

One of the highlights of the program was the participation of the SM Little Stars winners from China who also showcased their talents during the event. They were SM Zicuan’s Zhao Dingwenxuan and Zhang Jingqi, SM Chengdu’s Wang Yize and Yang Xiaopan, SM Xiamen’s Huang Yuwen and Cai Lin Qian, SM Chongqing’s Liu Jing Yu and Yang Hui Lin, and SM Jinjiang’s Huang Leixuan and Shen Yushu.

The SM Little Stars pageant is one of the many exciting events of the SM Supermalls.

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1 Last year’s SM Little Stars winners Chun Sa Angela Jung of SM City Clark and Jun Carlos Gumacal of SM City Iloilo during the Grand Finale of SM Little Stars 2015 2 SM Jinjiang China winner Shen Yushu in his Kung Fu demonstration 3 The SM Little Stars 2015 Grand Prize winners Annastacia Beatriz Penny and Lei Andre Navarro, both from SM City North EDSA. They both brought home P200,000 Cash and Shopping Money, 1-year Talent management contract with TV 5, National University Full College Grant, a trip to China for 2 with overnight stay for 2 at Microtel Hotel, , P15,000 worth of Gift Cards from Toy Kingdom and Ride-All-You-Can passes at Storyland for 1 year 4 SM Chengdu China winner Yang Xiaopan in her “Hello, Yang Xiaopan” modern dance 5 SM Chongqing China winner Yang Hui Lin in her Chinese dance to the tune of Qiao Hua Dan 6 Lei Andrei Navarro shows his winning moves in his Act and Dance performance 7 SM City Cebu’s Yessha Hilkiah De la Calzada sang her way to the audience’s hearts with “And I am Telling You.” 8 SM City Muntinlupa’s Jian Arthur Wills’s song and dance performance to the tune of Bebot and Nae Nae 9 SM Little Stars 2015 celebrity judges : (from left to right) Dancer and choreographer Joshua Zamora, beauty queen Venus Raj, Trumpets Co Founder and president Audie Gemora, TV5 host and multi-awarded actress Gelli De Belen, and TV director and Talent5 head Mac Alejandre 10 Grand Prize Winner Annastacia Beatriz Penny from SM City North Edsa amazed the audience with her own rendition of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow.’ 11 Third Runner up Aian Kurt of SM City Pampanga 12 TV actress Jasmin Curtis hosted the event

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SHOWBITZ isahred @ gmail.com

ThE CaSCaDES baCk in ManiLa

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ohn Claude Gummoe of The Cascades is back in Manila with special guest Mark Heston of The Lettermen.

They will be at Edsa Shangri-La Hotel on Sept. 10 for a dinner concert and on Sept. 11 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater of Resorts World Manila.

The two-night The Cascades with Mark Preston concert presented by Grand Leisure Corporation, Edsa Shangri-La Hotel, Resorts World Manila and Steve O’Neal Productions, will have as special guest performers Mark Mabasa, JV Decena, Lucky Robles and Lilibeth Garcia.

Among the songs to be performed include “Rhythm of the Rain,” which Gummoe (he was the leader, singer and songwriter of the Grammy award winning band The Cascades) wrote one rainy night aboard the USS Jason in San Diego in the 60s). The song has been certified as the 9th Most Performed Song of All Time, said to have been played over 10 million times in concerts and recordings in the U.S. alone. Released in 1962, “Rhythm

of the Rain” hit the Billboard charts at No. 80 and shot all the way to the Top 10 before exploding all over the world and becoming No. 1 in some countries such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan and the Philippines. The song has also been hailed as one of the last great songs of the pre-Beatles era in rock and roll history and which has remained one of the group’s most recognizable songs even with the younger generations.

Other hit songs of The Cascades that Gummoe is expected to sing include “Angel on My Shoulder,” “My First Day Alone,” “Dreamin’,” “Let Me Be,” “Shy Girl,” “There’s a Reason,” “The Last Leaf,” “Was I Dreamin’,” “I Wanna Be Your Lover,” “Punch and Judy” and “Lucky Guy.” The Cascades was formed in 1960 as a band called The Silver Strands, which later became The Thundernotes before becoming The Cascades.

The group disbanded in 1978 but reunited in 2005 - one year after their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - with Gabe Lapano, Tony

Grasso and Gummoe as members.

The Cascades and The Lettermen were acknowledged as two of the most popular male vocal groups of the 60s and 70s. The Lettermen, with Donovan Tea, Tony Butala and Mark Preston (2010) was considered as the original boy band of the 60s.

Among The Lettermen’s hit songs include “The Way You Look Tonight,” “When I Fall in Love” (which made them the most romantic singing group of the 60s!), “The Seventh Dawn,” and “Theme from A Summer Place” among others. The Lettermen was formed in Hollywood more than 50 years ago by Butala with Jim Pike and Bob Engemann as the other original members.

The Cascades with Mark Preston” is presented in collaboration with Park & Ride, Fadcon, Manila Multimodal Terminal, Duty Free Phils., HDI, Telenovela Channel, IBC 13, Hard Rock Cafe, Aristocrat Restaurant, Davies Paint, SeaOil, Retro, Wish FM and RJ100.3 FM official concert station.

Mark Preston of The Lettermen joins The Cascades for a two-night gig in Manila

John Gummoe brings back memories of the time Rhythm of The Rain was a favorite of many Filipinos

Kuwentong Bata, Kuwentistang Bata deadline extended

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he children storytellers are back!

Kuwentong Bata, Kuwentistang Bata , the Lampara Children Story-telling Competition, is now in its fourth year.

Following on the success of last year’s competition, Lampara Publishing, one of the Philippines leading children’s books publishers and the Philippine

Educational Theater Association (PETA) , invite elementary school students to join this year.

There will be two categories: Category A – Grades 1-4 and Category B – Grades 5-7. Finals will be held at the Manila International Book Fair on September 18, 2015 at the SM Mall of Asia SMX. Teachers and parents tell stories to impart lessons and tradi-

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ANSWER FOR PREVIOUS PUZZLE ACROSS 1 Egg protector 6 Do a ranch job 11 Return the favor 16 Jaunty 21 Steel rod 22 “The — Sanction” 23 Find a loophole 24 Helen, in Spain 25 — rings 26 Diminish 27 Pep up 28 More upscale 29 Get hitched 30 Purse holder 32 Gretzky of hockey 34 Nurse a drink 36 Well-worn 37 Forest ruminant 39 Ploys 41 Very small 43 Frequents 45 Veld grazer 47 Single-handed 49 Grey and McCrea 51 Reprimanding 54 Deceitful

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Billion, in combos Coup d’— Giving a hand to Wishing undone Victoria’s consort That woman Catty Hartford competitor Russell — of “Glad-

67 iator” 68 Ebbets Field great 70 Ancient Tokyo 71 Spice rack item 73 Dance from Cuba 74 Go softly 75 Heavyweight sport 77 Slugger’s stats 78 Thinks positive 79 Lug-nut protectors 80 Bandleader Xavier — 82 Not yet expired 83 Aaron Copland work 84 Gin inventor

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Pint- — Karate cousin Flip a coin Epic by Virgil UPS competitor Outback maker Koan discipline Ipso — Fish basket Yanked up a sock Hue Rural elec. provider — uno Wind catchers Rush forward Cellphone button Pulls a fast one Battery units Tow truck Mustang Edge past Goldbrick Sheet material Redhead’s tint Wanders freely Glass ingredient Ms. Hagen of films Double helix Ice in a bar Running mates Si, to Maurice Hot under the collar 138 Short prayer said before a meal 140 Olfactory stimulus 142 Cold weather wear 144 Sharp, as hearing 145 Atlas or Prometheus 146 Viennese dessert 147 Downright 148 Fraught 149 “Ivanhoe” author 150 Unable to eat any more 151 All geared up

tions to children. Now, children not only listen, but also tell their own stories. The success of the first three years prove that storytelling is alive and kicking among our youth, even in this age of cyberspace.

Contestants, parents and coaches can look forward to great bonding experiences as they not only compete for great

prizes, but also join in creative workshops. Through the workshops, they can gain confidence and skills in performing and expressing themselves.

Big prizes await the top 3 winners this year. Registration forms are available at the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City and in all Precious Pages outlets. Extension of deadline for registration is on

August 31, 2015. Register now for a fun experience of bonding, creating and performing exciting and value-laden children’s stories!

For more information, contact Rexie Quizon at Kuwentong Bata, Kuwentistang Bata Secretariat: (02) 7256244, (02) 4100821-22, 0916-774-7732. Or email petastorytelling@gmail.com

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30, 2015

DOWN 1 Three may be one 2 Ms. Zellweger 3 Put up with 4 Cosmic force 5 Sea eagles 6 Stance 7 Coarse, as humor 8 Yawning 9 Table-tennis divider 10 Selected a card 11 Counting on 12 Make evident 13 Road crew member 14 Lime cooler 15 Hankerings 16 Friend never met?

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Disney site Egged on Omega competitor Henry VIII’s house Two quartets Eye color Surfer slang Merger Kind of jockey Hayseeds Blows gently — ho!

Atahualpa subject Clairvoyants

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Feints Missouri range Swamp grass Contemptuous look From Bordeaux Teen occupation Escort of a sort Slangy summons Ant home Clears a trail Storrs coll.

Brownie maker Crunchy

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Two-bagger (abbr.)

— Price of film Pivoted Word after debt or guilt Winter vehicle on treads Slim and trim Fresco City near Syracuse Pedro’s toast Muse of poetry Plain to see Ventricle neighbor

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Microwaved Pepys’ book PR persons Former JFK arrivals Railroad siding When Paris sizzles Singer — Ocasek Kiwi’s extinct cousin Had for dinner

S UNDAY : AUGUST 3 0 : 2015

SHOWBITZ isahred @ gmail.com

Jullie San Jose cares about less fortunate children

‘How Do I Look?

AsIA’ on DIvA

San Jose is World Vision's new celebrity advocate

Julie Anne SAn JoSe neweSt AdvocAte for children

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n Aug. 25, Asia’s Pop Sweetheart Julie Anne San Jose was officially launched as the newest Celebrity Advocate for Children of World Vision, an international child-focused non-government organization.

The GMA Artist Center star will be more involved in various charity and community outreach efforts, especially those promoting children’s rights, wellbeing and education.

“We are very honored to have as part of our family a staunch advocate for children, Julie Anne, who we all know started in her career as a child. We have been witness to how she genuinely cares for children and we know that this will be the beginning of a beautiful journey with her in ensuring that every child lives his/her life to the fullest,” says World Vision Manager for Public Awareness and Experience Pamela Millora.

Prior to announcing Julie Anne as a World Vision Advocate, she has been already been involved in various World Vision initiatives, such as Bangon Pinoy, a concert for the benefit of Typhoon Yolanda survivors in 2013, and more recently, the White Event, an online celebrity auction for a cause. She also sponsors two children with World Vision.

Meanwhile, she’s currently part of the comedy-musical variety program Sunday PinaSaya, Pepito Manaloto, and Afternoon Prime series Buena Familia.

HHHHH Jennylyn MercAdo, denniS trillo in higAlAAy feStivAl It’s a weekend to remember for rumored couple and lead stars of GMA’s primetime drama series My Faithful Husband Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo. The two were in the “City of Golden Friendship” yesterday to celebrate Cagayan de Oro’s (CdeO) Higalaay Festival.

Jennylyn and Dennis, who portray wife and husband in the much talked-about series, met g their Kagay-anon fans and treated them to an afternoon of fun activities and thrilling perfor-

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mances. Yesterday at 4 p.m. the DenJen love team were in a Kapuso Mall Show at the Activity Center of Centrio Ayala Mall.

“It’s an honor on the part of the Network to participate in important celebrations in the regions such as Cagayan de Oro’s Higalaay Festival.

For years our Kapusong Kagay-anons have shown GMA nothing but all-out support and this time, we wish to show them our appreciation by bringing Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo from the trending primetime series My Faithful Husband to join the Kagay-anons in their merrymaking” shares Oliver Amoroso, GMA’s head for Regional Strategy and Business Development Division.

GMA Artist Center talents Enzo Pineda and Pancho Magno also visited the so-called “Heart of Northern Mindanao” for a special participation in the 1st Rafthon Adventure Fun Run at 6 a.m. yesterday. The exciting activity’s starting point was at Dansolihon, CdeO and ended at Maumbaya, CdeO City.

To know more about the Network’s regional events, follow GMA on Facebook at www. facebook.com/gmanetwork and GMA Regional TV at www.facebook.com/GMARegionalTV and on Twitter and Instagram via @ GMARegionalTV. HHHHH gMA’S neweSt coMedy hit Kapuso comedian Sef Cadayona is a major success in his first title role as Juan Tamad.

Sef ’s modern day portrayal of Juan Tamad piloted on Aug. 23, with an 18.4 percent NUTAM (National Urban Television Audience Measurement) household rating – far ahead of ABS CBN competition Luv U (11.9 percent), according to Nielsen TV Audience Measurement overnight ratings data. Juan Tamad utilized a slew of special effects and animation, increasing the number of young viewers for this timeslot, while the familiar story about the lazy boy from Philippine folklore kept housewives and older viewers tuned in.

The pilot episode, entitled “Juan

and the Girl Next Door,” was also a trending topic on Twitter – with netizens noting that Sef tickled their funny bones and that the show was a feel-good stress reliever.

Juan Tamad’s first episode focused on Juan’s huge crush on his next-door neighbor Marie, played by the beautiful Max Collins. Juan signed up for a political science course just to become Marie’s classmate. But his lazy ways turned college life into an epic fail. Juan dropped out but was too afraid to tell his OFW father Tatay George (RoiVinzon).

Today’s episode, “Juan’s Nanay Siony” (played by Marissa Sanchez) uses Juan’s erstwhile tuition money to enter a networking business.

Juan warns her against this, to no avail. Nanay Siony turns friends, neighbors and even her catty rival Candy (played by Melanie Marquez) into her business partners.

Jaclyn Jose appears as the marketing whiz that sells Nanay Siony Miracle Powder, which turns out to not be so miraculous after all.

Juan Tamad’s sophomore episode is a riot and it airs this Sunday afternoon, only on GMA7.

HHHHH richArd yAp SpiceS up Afternoon tv Daytime TV King Richard Yap is set to spice up the afternoon viewing habit of TV viewers as he joins the cast of ABS-CBN’s top-rating Kapamilya Gold drama series Nasaan Ka Nang Kailangan Kita.

Richard has charmed the hearts of daytime TV viewers with his character Ser Chief in the phenomenal drama series Be Careful With My Heart, where he was recognized as a Favorite Anak TV Makabata awardee, and Best Actor in the 2012 Golden Screen TV Awards, PMPC Star Awards for TV, and Paragala Central Luzon Media Awards.

Starting this week, Richard will show TV viewers a different side of him as he takes on a more challenging role in the series starring Denise Laurel, Jane Oineza, Loisa Andalio, and Vina Morales.

Richard will give life to the character of Carlo, Cecilia’s (Vina) childhood friend who has long

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been waiting to see her again.

How will Carlo and Cecilia’s lives change when fate makes its way to bring them back together?

Will he become a hindrance in Cecilia’s reconciliation with Leandro (Christian Vasquez) and their whole family?

The drama series revolves around the story of four women who depict the different faces of love.

Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo thrill fans in Cagayan de Oro

Max Collins and Sef Cadayona are Sunday's favorite comic love team in Juan Tamad

Richard Yap is back on daytime TV

It’s time to go head over heels for Diva’s How Do I Look?

Asia, the highly anticipated Asian re-imagination of the hit fashion makeover series.

Billed as “Asia’s ultimate fashion fix, ”How Do I Look?

Asia will make its debut on 8 p.m. tomorrow on DIVA, NBC Universal International Networks’ leading entertainment channel for women in Asia.

The NBC Universal International format, produced by NBC Universal’s Matchbox Asia, follows Malaysian celebrity and style icon Sazzy Falak as she guides eight fashion victims to the path of fashion enlightenment. Jeannie Mai, host of the original U.S. version, and a familiar face to Asian viewers, features in each episode, setting up the fashion challenges each week.

The fashion-challenged victims include onesie-addict/ blogger Apple (Philippines); indie rock guitarist Ariana (Malaysia); mismatch, mishap/ watercolor artist Choc (Taiwan); sales executive, and literally “plain” Jane (Philippines/ Australia); overachieving, yet outdated Lavinya (Malaysia); rebel teacher Lianni (Philippines); romantically-insecure Maisarah (Singapore); and the uninspiringly dressed motivational speaker Yessinta (Indonesia).

To achieve a professional look that can be replicated for the everyday, Sazzy will be joined by a guest stylist in each episode: Liz Uy (Filipina celebrity stylist); Zac Wu (Taiwanese celebrity stylist); Andrea Wong (former editor of Elle Malaysia); and Anindita Saryuf (fashion director of Elle Indonesia).

In each episode, Sazzy and an accomplice – a concerned family member, friend or colleague – will help transform the lucky fashion victim into a beacon of style. After having their wardrobe raided, the individualwill have their current fashion choices face the “Eww Tube”, one of the iconic features of the original format.

The “Eww Tube” is a vacuum cleaner-like machine that literally sucks offending outfits up and away after they have been eliminated by the panel of fashion experts and accomplices.

The transformations featured on the series transcend fashion and style. Viewers will also get to witness the complex and emotional backstories of the victims, whose glamorous new looks, and freshly developed sense of style, act as a catalyst for them to adopt a more positive and confident outlook on life.

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ISAH V. RED EDITOR isahred @ gmail.com

SHOWBITZ

Hair as a canvas for colonists

HAir over DiNNer ISAH V. RED A couple of days before this frenzied weekend, I had dinner with the Italian hair master who was in Manila to train specialists. Italy’s most sought-after master educator in hair and coloring, Alessandro Cavazzini has been conducting a series of trainings for local hair stylists and colorists, courtesy of Elgon Professional Hair Color.

Cavazzini was born and raised in Milan where he, at a young age, started his hairdressing career.

We chatted about hair coloring and the trend in the coming months. Cavazzini isn’t very fluent in English so he had a Spanish-speaking translator with him who is also fluent in English. The hairdresser speaks fluent Spanish apart from his native Italian.

After completing his training in a hairdressing academy, Cavazzini worked in various salons in and around Milan in order to hone his skills and improve his craft.

He said he eventually opened his own salon and built a growing base of clients. But closed it eventually to join Elgon, a Milan-base brand of professional hair-care products.

That was, of course, after he has become a name in his native Milan and other parts of Italy.

He also engaged in other artistic events and even managed a popular fashion agency in Italy.

He said he realized his passion was in education and training. He then worked as trainer and technician in some of the major Italian hair cosmetic companies. Five years ago, Cavazzini joined Pidielle S.p.A., makers of Elgon hair cosmetics, as Master Educator.

Alessandro Cavazzini shares his knowledge and skills with hair color among Filipino hairdressers

Unkempt but elegant hair

He now manages Elgon technical teams in Italy and abroad. “Every year, I travel around the world conducting training sessions for Elgon technicians/educators and staging hair shows and seminars for Elgon customers,” he said Today, with 20 years of experience under his belt, Alessandro Cavazzini is one of the greatest hair color experts in Europe.”

In the Philippines, Beauty Lane Philippines, Inc. headed by its Pesident and CEO, Dina de Villa-Tobojka distributes the brand and most of her clients are salon operators and hairdresssers.

“The trainings will be more on using Elgon products in new ways. It’s something we can pass on to our customers here because stylists are constantly looking for something new,” Tobojka said.

The brand’s Philippine ambassadors recently underwent the same training under Cavazzini in Milan. The personnel included Tobojka herself, Beauty Lane’s

The new look by Elgon

general manager Rebecca Lopez, and JURO Salon Exclusif ’s Jude Hipolito and Rose Velasco.

Lopez shared, “Whatever we learned, we will show in these demonstrations. Alessandro is here to train our educators and let them experience what we have experienced in Milan. Apart from this, we’re also planning to conduct lookand-learn seminars in Cebu and Davao which will be done by Jude and Rose as Elgon ambassadors.”

Elgon, we learned from the conversation we had with Alessandro, is one of the most preferred brands of hair color solutions in Italy as it is well known for its reputation as a leader and expert in innovation when it comes to hair color.

He said, “In its 45 years in business, Elgon was able to create products that can serve and treat the different needs of various salon owners and goers. It’s a brand that guarantees quality, dedicated in putting the health and safety of its customers above all else.”

Lopez further explained, “A testament to their dedication toward health and safety is their Elgon Color Remover because you can remove color safely without bleach.

Elgon is a brand that is very conscious about health and safety, absolutely. It’s one of the things I absolutely loved about them. It’s just not, sell, sell, sell. It’s selling with a heart.

Selling with concern. Selling with a soul. You can see what the company stands for just by looking at the product line. Elgon’s products have characteristics directed to health, safety, and the environment as well, which says a lot about the company.”

To prove its dedication and concern toward its customers, Elgon has a solution for people who want a certain look but don’t have all day to spend in a salon to achieve it.

“Salons don’t have to turn down customers who are in a hurry.

There are people who come to salons and say, ‘I only have thirty minutes, can you dye my gray hair?’” Lopez added.

Tobojka pointed out, “Actually, if you answer a salon asking for that kind of service and tell them you only have ten minutes, the stylists will probably laugh at you. With Elgon’s 10 Minute Color, time won’t be an issue. Not only will you be able to make a hurrying customer satisfied, but you can also service more customers in less time. This significantly increases your salon’s performance.”

More so, the product is actually cheaper compared to the Philippine’s current leading brand of hair color. To many salon owners, Elgon products are competitively priced considering that it is betterperforming compared to many brands out in the market.

These characteristics in Elgon products can definitely help boost the productivity and sales of salons.

Beauty Lane Philippines, Incorporated, the premier salon and beauty solutions provider in the country, is the exclusive Philippine distributor of Elgon Professional Hair Color.

The company is also known for its success in bringing world-renowned brands of salon and beauty products in the country, including Brazilian Blowout, China Glaze, Gigi Wax, and Ardell, to name a few.

To know more about Elgon, visit www.elgon.ph, or follow their social media pages, ElgonPH on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. ➜ Continued on C7