BSP CUTS BANKS’
IN BID TO SPUR GROWTH
By Cai U. Ordinario
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) decided on Friday to adjust the reserve requirements of banks, allowing them to increase loans that they can extend to Filipinos nationwide.
Starting October 25, 2024, universal and commercial banks (UKBs) and non-bank financial institutions with quasi-banking functions (NBQBs), digital banks, and thrift banks will have lower reserve requirements. Rural banks and cooperative banks (RCBs), meanwhile, will no longer have a reserve requirement. The last time the BSP reduced the RRR was in June 2023 when it delivered a cut of 250 bps to bring down the ratio to 9.5 percent from 12 percent (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2023/06/09/banksrrr-slashed-by-250-bps/).
“The BSP emphasizes that these adjustments in reserve requirements are in line with its continuing efforts to reduce distortions in the financial system. The reductions will lower intermediation costs and promote better pricing for financial services,” BSP said.
On Friday, BSP decided to reduce the reserve requirement ratios (RRRs) by 250 basis points (bps) for UKBs and NBQBs, effec-
Aug
By Cai U. Ordinario
“If used wisely by banks, [the reductions] could help grow the economy by providing lower intermediation costs, thus lowering costs of business.”—Jonathan L. Ravelas tively bringing this down to 7 percent from the current 9.5 percent starting October 25.
Apart from UKBs and NBQBs, the BSP will also reduce the RRR for digital banks by 200 bps as well as thrift banks (TBs) and for rural banks and cooperative banks (RCBs) by 100 bps.
This will also bring down the ratios to 4 percent for digital banks
and TBs to 1 percent. With the reduction in its RRR, RCBs will no longer have a reserve ratio by 25 October 2024.
The BSP stressed that the reduction of the RRR will apply to the local currency deposits and deposit substitute liabilities of banks and NBQBs.
“As inflation continues to track a target-consistent path over the next two years, the BSP will reassess the need for further reductions in the RRRs to better align them with regional norms over the medium term,” the BSP said.
Not inflationary
JONATHAN L. Ravelas, senior adviser at professional services firm Reyes Tacandong & Co., told the BusinessMirror that the latest decision of the BSP will not be inflationary as the current rate is high at 9.5 percent.
Even BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. earlier noted that he considered the 9.5 percent “ridiculously high” and thus shared his goal to reduce the RRR to 5 percent.
“If used wisely by banks, it could help grow the economy by providing lower intermediation costs, thus lowering costs of business. It might not be inflationary. This is coming from 9.5 percent,” Ravelas told this newspaper.
Given this latest development and the expectation that another rate cut will be delivered by the Monetary Board in its October 17 meeting, Ravelas said he expected
another RRR cut in the magnitude of 200 bps next month.
This week, the BSP said it is keen on making a “substantial” reduction in the RRR this year
(See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/09/19/bsp-keen-on-heftycut-in-rrr-of-banks-in-2024/).
More liquidity to grow economy
IN a briefing on Wednesday, Remolona told reporters that the reduction in the RRR this year will be followed by further reductions in 2025.
Remolona said that in exchange for the cut in the RRR, Philippine banks are willing to reduce transaction costs on payments. Regardless of this “funny dynamic,” Remolona said it is important to reduce the RRR “in a substantial way.”
BSP Monetary Policy Sub-Sector Assistant Governor Zeno Ronald R. Abenoja said if the RRR is reduced, this could lead to additional liquidity to grow the economy through the increase in economic activities.
Abenoja said, however, this will not be an immediate consequence. He explained that some of the liquidity needs to be deployed by banks in various financial markets.
Remolona admitted that the transmission mechanism of monetary policy continues to be saddled by long lags. This is “because the markets are not deep and liquid.”
WHAT DOES A WORLD AT WAR NEED?
AS the world teeters on the brink of war in many places while ongoing, bloody conflicts have ravaged places in the Middle East, Europe and parts of Northern Africa, among others, it is time to go back to the time when human civilization sought an end to warfare.
According to former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno, “We need to change our world order to eliminate the use of force, violence and wars in inter-state relationship.”
Addressing the Rotary Club of Manila on Thursday (September 19), CJ Puno pointed out that, “Our present world order does not work because it is founded on power imbalance—only a handful of powerful countries dictate its direction, more specifically the five countries that wield the veto power in the UN Security Council. It excludes the legion of powerless nations in decision-making. Our world order does not work because it fails to appreciate the interconnectedness of all nations and the commonality of the problems they face like climate change, poverty, pandemic, etc.”
The current world order, he added, “does not work because it continues to perpetuate narrow national interest instead of recognizing divergent values and interests. Our world order does not work because it is built on the values of competition, not cooperation, secrecy instead of transparency and accountability.”
Full text of his Rotary Club of Manila speech, “Warfare, Lawfare, A World of New Disorder,” on page A2.
FORMER Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno: “We need to change our world order to eliminate the use of force, violence and wars in inter-state relationship.” NONOY LACZA
Warfare, Lawfare, A World of New Disorder
I: Prefatory Statement
PEACE is the predicate of progress. Since time immemorial mankind has searched for peace. Their ceaseless search for peace has always ended in the peace of the graveyard.
In the book entitled Conflict
the authors General David Petraeus and Andrew Roberts stated that warfare has never ended … “Conflict has continued at least somewhere on the globe every year since the end of the Second World War.
The 20th Century was the most brutal of all the many centuries of human existence; it is estimated that more people have already perished violently in the first half of the 20th century than in all the previous centuries put together” (p. 2.).
Two decades inside the 21st century, peace continues to elude us. Consider the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. It is now running to 2 ½ years. Ukraine is in near total devastation given the kind of bombs dropped on it by Russia. But its cost to Russia is also bewildering. According to Petraeus and Roberts, “within a month of the invasion of Ukraine, Russia had lost as many military personnel killed as the US had in 20 years in Iraq and by March 2023, the Russian death toll is thought to have reached five times the 13,300 soldiers that the USSR lost after a decade in Afghanistan
in the 1980’s” (Ibid., p. 2). The war appears to be escalating. A few days ago, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and US President Joe Biden discussed the possibility of allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia. Putin warned it could unhinge a nuclear conflict. Or consider the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. This war is on its twelfth month. It was precipitated by Hamas’s surprise attack on Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,205 people, mostly civilians. They also seized 251 hostages, including two Filipinos. Israel retaliated and in its aftermath, some 41,000 have died. Israel has rejected all calls by the international community for cease-fire until all hostages have been freed. Yesterday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres released a statement that condemned what he called “collective punishment of the people of Gaza by Israel” Other nations have come to the succor of both Israel and the Hamas. With Israel holding a nuclear card, the conflict can also incinerate the
world unless contained.
Or consider the ongoing conflict between China and the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea. It started as a maritime dispute between two countries alone, a dispute which could have been settled under the peaceful mechanism set forth in UNCLOS. Their Arbitration failed. Since then, China has claimed sovereignty and occupied Scarborough Shoal, Ayungin Shoal and threatens to do the same on Escoda Shoal. All shoals are within the EEZ of the Philippines, hence, at the very least, it has sovereign rights on the shoals. In this maritime dispute, the Philippines is fighting a Goliath. The Chinese Coast Guard, Navy and militia have succeeded in blocking almost all efforts of the Philippines to claim sovereign rights on these shoals. China has used water cannons, rammed boats, boarded a Philippine Navy boat, seized firearms of Filipino sailors, etc. All diplomatic protests have proved futile. Consequently, the Philippines has sought the assistance of other countries to protect itself from what it considers as aggression by China. Notably, it has concluded an Enhanced Defense Agreement with the US. Again, this conflict can escalate into an international dispute with some of the countries wielding weapons of mass destruction. The South China Sea is a very important waterway for trade that is vital to the whole world.
II: Evolution of the Legal Regime on Warfare MANKIND’S peace has always been broken by the use of force
and by declarations of war. It is interesting to note than from the time of the Roman Republic to the 1648 Peace of Westphalia, war was as an instrument of policy and considered lawful among nations. Albeit, there was the doctrine of “just wars” of St. Augustine that imposed certain restrictions before States can declare war.
After the 1648 Peace of Westphalia, however, States no longer followed the doctrine of just war. States considered themselves sovereign and equal and they held that no State had the right to determine whether a war is just or not. By the end of the 18th century and throughout the 19th century, customary international law placed no limitation on the rights of States to resort to war to settle their disputes (Ireland, Public International Law, p. 679, et. seq.).
The devastation of World War I changed this State notion of its unlimited right to declare war. The League of Nations was established and its Covenant outlawed “war of aggression.” The 1928 General Treaty for the Renunciation of War, also known as the Kellogg-Briand Pact, was the first universal treaty that outlawed war. However, it did not provide for sanctions against its violation.
With this soft stance on war, the covenant of League of Nations failed to prevent WWII. The horrors of World War II saw the birth of the UN. Its Charter totally banned the threat and use of force. Article 2 (4) of the Charter states that all members of the UN “shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State or in any other manner incompatible with the purposes of the United Nations.” Further, Article 2 (3) of the Charter provides: “All members shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security and justice are not endangered.” These Articles, however, should be read in conjunction with Article 51 of the Charter which reads: “Nothing in the present Charter shall impair the inherent right of individual or collective self-defense if an armed attack occurs against Members of the United Nations, until the Security Council has taken measures necessary to maintain international peace and security. Measures taken by Members in the exercise of this right of self-defense shall be immediately reported to the Security Council and shall not in any way affect the authority and responsibility of the Security Council under the present Charter to take at any time such action as it deems necessary in order to maintain or restore international peace and security”. It took centuries for States to dump their right to wage war and agree to a total prohibition of war.
III: Application of Article 2 (3) in relation to Article 51 and its problems SINCE 1945 and for nearly seven
decades, these articles in the UN Charter have set the legal regime that determines the propriety of the use of force and validates the exercise of self-defense in interstate relationship. The outlawing of war by the UN Charter may have prevented the occurrence of WWIII but certainly, it failed to solve the problem of obliterating mini wars or the illegal use of force as well as unlawful claims of the right of self-defense in interstate relationship. Consequently, international peace remains a chimera in the world today. It will require volumes to dissect the problems States have encountered in the implementation of these provisions and why they failed to prevent wars among our States. Let me just mention some of the major ones. First , there is the controversy on the meaning of “armed attack ”. Under Article 51 of the Charter, it is an “armed attack ” that will trigger the right of self-defense. Literally, it contemplates the use of “armed ” force. Some States, however, take the view that economic measures or non-violent actions that can infringe other provisions of the UN Charter or customary international law on State obligations should justify the invocation of the right to self-defense. Second , there is the controversy on whether there is a de minimis threshold on the scale and effects of the “armed attack”. There is what is known as accumulation of events” theory or needle prick theory that posits the view that several minor attacks or incidents may be accumulated and used to justify the exercise of the right of self-defense. Third , there is the controversy on the timing of the armed attack which will trigger the exercise of the right of self-defense. Again, literally read, the right of the self-defense can be exercised only “if an armed attack occurs.” The 9/11 attack on the United States as well as the availability of weapons of mass destruction to terrorist groups, gave birth to the concept of anticipatory self defense. According to this school of thought, an imminent use of force, especially involving weapons of mass destruction, can trigger the right of self-defense of the targeted state. In other words, the targeted State need not wait for the armed attack to occur.
A corollary school of thought, known as preemptive self-defense, goes further. It posits the theory that even if the armed attack is not imminent but may take place at some point in the future if no action is taken, that should justify the exercise of the right of selfdefense.
This position was taken by Israel in attacking an Iraq nuclear reactor that was still under construction but designed to produce nuclear weapons that would subsequently be used against it.
Let me just refer to one more controversial area in the application of Article 51 of the Charter.
Customary international law further requires two conditions to
be fulfilled to justify the exercise of self-defense: proportionality and necessity. The requirement of proportionality demands that self-defense measures should be geared towards stopping or repelling the armed attack. If the attack has ceased, the alleged self- defense actions of the victim state will be dismissed as punitive or retaliatory and will be qualified as reprisal and no longer acts of self-defense. In other words, they cannot justify the need to deter future attacks or eliminate their danger Quare: Does this apply to the Israel-Hamas ongoing dispute? Also, there is the requirement of necessity as a restriction on the right to exercise the right of selfdefense. This requirement means that the right can only be used as a last resort , only when peaceful means have been reasonably exhausted or when diplomatic efforts have proved futile. The requirement also demands that self-defense should be undertaken while the original armed attack is still in progress; there should be a close proximity in time between the start of the armed attack and the response in self-defense (Ireland supra). These different interpretations have proved detrimental to mankind’s search for international peace. They have been used by some powerful countries to avoid the State duty not to use force or threat of force. They have been used by other countries to violate the requirements for the legitimate use of the right of self-defense. They have violated the norms set by Article 51 of the Charter especially with the use of their veto power in the UN Security Council. Thus today, we suffer from a world of new disorder.
IV: We Need a New World Order AS discussed, the legal regimen provided in the UN Charter has not eliminated the threat or the use of force, hence, the proliferation of inter-state wars. In the coming years, the existing legal regimen will prove to be more useless considering the novel means of warfare being brought by technology, especially artificial intelligence. As well put by author Mark Galeotti, viz Economic sanctions, targeted assassinations and political-influence campaigns are becoming more common, more alluring and, in some cases, less detectable then actions on the usual battlegrounds of land, sea, air and space. Perpetual low-level conflict masked by plausible deniability both de-intensifies war and make it more ubiquitous. Disconnected from traditional battlefields, such actions comprise a form a warfare where computers, currencies and public opinion become primary battlegrounds, with little definitive indication of final success or failure. This has been termed ‘the weaponization of everything’, and we can assume it to be a growing phenomenon.
Needless to state, we need to change our world order to eliminate the use of force, violence and wars in inter-state relationship. Our present world order does not work because it is founded on power imbalance—only a handful of powerful countries dictate its direction, more specifically the five (5) countries that wield the veto power in the UN Security Council. It excludes the legion of powerless nations in decision-making. Our world order does not work because it fails to appreciate the interconnectedness of all nations and the commonality of the problems they face like climate change, poverty, pandemic, etc. Our world order does not work because it continues to perpetuate narrow national interest instead of recognizing divergent values and interests. Our world order does not work because it is built on the values of competition, not cooperation, secrecy instead of transparency and accountability.
This is our challenge and it is a challenge that needs our urgent attention. Good day to all.
By Chief Justice Reynato S, Puno (ret.)
Speech delivered at the Rotary Club of Manila, September 19, 2024
GOOD Defeats Evil, a powerful sculpture by Zurab Tsereteli (USSR, 1990) captures the moment St. George triumphs over the dragon, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Notably, the dragon is crafted from the remnants of two dismantled nuclear missiles—the Soviet SS-20 and the American Pershing II—destroyed under the INF Treaty of 1987. This poignant piece was gifted by the Soviet Union in 1990 to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the United Nations, reminding us of the enduring hope for peace and disarmament. HANNATOR92 VIA DREAMSTIME.COM
SRA ups import clearance fee for artificial sweeteners
By Ada Pelonia
THE Sugar Regulatory Administration
(SRA) raised the import clearance fee for High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) to P30 per equivalent bag of sugar in its bid to curb the use of the artificial sweeteners.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona said the increase of import clearance fees for HFCS was “unanimously passed” by the Sugar Board last month and forms part of Sugar Order (SO) 4. In early 2017, the SRA said it charged companies that import HFCS P30 per bag, but this was lowered a month later to P1.50 per bag, and “suspected to partly cause demand for domestic sugar stagnating in the past few years.”
According to the SRA, the issue of artificial sweeteners was raised to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel by United Sugar Producers Federation (UNIFED) President Manuel Lamata and other sugar leaders in Luzon and Mindanao in early August.
“The SRA immediately acted on the concern. Thus, while collection of data on the use of artificial sweeteners is ongoing, we discovered this and decided to immediately raise the SRA fees for HFCS,” Azcona said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the SRA said another SO is being drafted based on the August 6 meeting between Laurel and other sugar
stakeholders, millers, refiners, farmers, where UNIFED raised the alarm on the entry of “other sugars” or Tariff code HS1702.
“This entails requiring importers of items under HS1702 to secure an import clearance from SRA and this has been under board discussion since August,” Azcona said.
He said it has come to his attention that a similar letter addressed to the agriculture chief was sent by a group called the Sugar Council and the Nacusip this week.
“We welcome that more stakeholders are actually concerned about this issue and has decided to support the alarms initially raised by other sugar federations.”
The SRA said the alleged volume of imports under HS1702 was estimated to be around 200,000 metric tons (MT), “much higher than what some federations say.”
It added that the agency would continue to verify the data “as we have seen that this has been happening as far back as 10 years.”
“This will give us an accurate view and determine whether these other sugars have caused the demand for sugar to decline in the past few years,” Azcona added.
Despite this, the SRA chief noted that it was a “positive note that we are all together in supporting an issue that can be detrimental to the sugar industry.”
He encouraged united participation from all sectors to speed up resolution to any issues arising in the future.
Gatchalian pushes petrol price mechanism tweaks
SEN. Win Gatchalian wants to institutionalize transparency in the movements of petroleum prices by enacting a law to ensure that the welfare and interests of consumers are amply protected.
“To guarantee transparency and fair retail pricing, information related to any significant adjustments in oil prices should be made available to the public,” Gatchalian said.
A recent Supreme Court decision upheld the Court of Appeals’ rulings that affirmed the validity of a circular issued by the Department of Energy (DOE). The circular requires oil companies to unbundle or disclose the details of price adjustments, along with explanations and supporting documents.
“Mas mainam na magbalangkas tayo ng batas upang masigurong tuloy-tuloy na ang pagpapatupad ng naturang polisiya,” said Gatchalian.
[It’s better that we enact a law to ensure sustained implementation of the policy].
Tourism sector nears pre-Covid resource consumption levels
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
AFTER years of pandemic-related declines, the tourism sector in the Philippines is once again using significant amounts of water, and energy, and contributing more to carbon emissions, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
The increase in the usage of resources is attributed to the industry’s continued recovery after the sharp declines seen during the pandemic.
In 2023, the tourism sector consumed 202.20 million cubic
meters of water, nearly double the 93.08 million cubic meters used in 2022. Most of this water went to accommodation services, which accounted for 40.2 percent of total usage.
This brings the industry’s
water demand closer to the 209.69 million cubic meters seen in 2019, before the drastically reduced travel activities.
Energy consumption also spiked in 2023, reaching 6,135.28 kilo tonnes of oil equivalent (KTOE), marking a 107.4- percent increase from the 2,957.64 KTOE recorded the previous year. The energy demand is still short of the 9,379.88 KTOE seen in 2019 but indicates a strong rebound in activity.
The biggest energy user? Transport services for tourists, which made up 36.9 percent of the total consumption.
The environmental toll of this resurgence was also clear. Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions more than doubled, reaching 8,034.20 gigagrams (Gg) in 2023, compared to 3,922.39 Gg in 2022, with the
PHL-Korea FTA may lead to more green mining investments–DTI
from Korea.
transport services contributing 67.3 percent of these emissions. The report underscored the need for sustainable practices as the sector approaches its pre-2020 consumption levels, particularly in transport and accommodation services.
The statistics agency’s Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (MST) initiative, launched in 2021, continues to track these environmental impacts to guide the industry toward greener practices. As of June 2023, tourism’s impact on the Philippine economy continued to grow, with the sector contributing 8.6 percent to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Tourism also gave jobs to 6.21 million Filipinos in 2023, up 6.4 percent from 2022, which accounted for 12.9 percent of the country’s total employment.
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
AGatchalian has filed Senate Bill 2081 which seeks to amend Republic Act 8479 otherwise known as the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act by institutionalizing transparency in the industry. The bill aims to address a legislative gap by providing the DOE with explicit authority to require downstream oil industry participants engaged in the retail of petroleum products to submit information on the cost components of the pump prices when the average price of Dubai crude oil for 3 consecutive months is equal or greater than $80/barrel.
The measure mandates DOE to require disclosure of actual costs including international content such as import costs, freight costs, insurance, and foreign exchange costs; government impositions such as import duties, excise taxes, value added taxes; biofuel costs and other costs such as port charges, refining costs, storage cost, handling costs, marketing costs, transshipment costs, and the oil company’s profit. Butch Fernandez
“Open and transparent communications are important between the government, oil companies and the public in order to keep the trust and safeguard the interest of the people, especially during times when market prices are volatile,” he added, speaking in Filipino.
Tolentino reiterates urgency of creating Sulu transition fund
SENATE Majority Leader Francis “Tol” Tolentino once again called on government agencies to work together on a transition fund to cover expenses urgently needed by Sulu province, following its severance from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Presiding over the hearing on the proposed budget for 2025 of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and its attached agencies, Tolentino asked Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos how the agency has been assisting Sulu, as the latter transitions from BARMM to Region IX.
Region IX, the Zamboanga Peninsula, is being presumed as the region that would absorb administrative jurisdiction over the province.
“As we discuss this, there is no budget for Sulu’s police vehicles, so how can they conduct patrols? The funding for the salaries of DILG personnel in the province has stopped,” Tolentino noted.
“You have regional officers in Region IX, and perhaps Sulu will be transferred there. What happens now to Sulu? Is it possible to carve out something from your budget allocation to form a Sulu fund? This could come from a small share from each
agency, but if pooled, this transition fund could be substantial enough,” the senator told Abalos.
In response, Abalos said that just like other agencies, the DILG did not anticipate the exclusion of Sulu from BARMM, based on the recent decision of the Supreme Court, which he noted is immediately executory.
“We are coordinating with the Ministry of the Interior Local Government of BARMM if it would be possible to keep the status quo. By the same token, we face a dilemma on how to raise these funds from what we currently have. It is difficult, but we’re trying to scrape some funds using every means possible,” shared Abalos.
Tolentino then asked the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) whether it has already provided guidance to government agencies in assisting the province.
Carlos Castro, a director at the DBM said the agency is now drafting a comment to establish a funding mechanism for Sulu, covering salaries, government assistance and other related matters—including the consideration of a transition fund for the province.
Tolentino stressed the need to expedite the DBM directive to ensure that vital government services in the province are not disrupted.
S the Philippine Senate is poised to ratify the Philippine-South Korea free trade agreement, both countries are now working on another agreement to start cooperation on critical minerals.
Senate has already approved on second reading the bilateral Philippine-South Korea FTA Thursday. For the FTA to come into force, both the Philippine Senate and the Korean Parliament must ratify the treaty.
“We are already working
as an implementation of the FTA on an MOU on strategic critical minerals cooperation. We are already laying down the activities so that we can bring more Korean investments to the Philippines for value addition to our minerals,” Trade and Investment Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said during the Stratbase ADR Institute forum Friday.
With the Philippine-South Korea FTA, products being traded between countries will be reduced or removed altogether. These include bananas and pineapples from the Philippines and autoparts
Rodolfo said most of the tariff lines between the Philippines and Korea have already been reduced prior to the FTA, primarily due to the Asean-Korea FTA and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
He suggested that the Philippine government make FTA the “platform” to increase Korean investments to the Philippines, particularly in mineral processing and battery manufacturing.
The DTI official noted that the Philippines is the world’s top supplier of nickel—the
mineral used for electric vehicles. However, only 25 percent of these nickel are processed in the Philippines through Japanese firm Sumitomo Metals. After processing in the Philippines, the nickel is then exported to Japan and then sold to Tesla in the United States.
“The other 75 percent of our nickel, we export to China. Part of it they export to Korea which they turn into batteries for e-vehicles,” he said.
South Korea is the world’s number one battery manufacturer for data center, grid-wide power generation and e-vehicles. Rodolfo said DTI is targeting Korean battery manufacturing giants LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI and SK On to invest in the Philippines.
Poe backs call to defer rollout of cashless toll plazas
SEN. Grace Poe on Friday backed congressmen’s call to defer the October 1 rollout of the cashless toll plazas amid widespread complaints about glitches in the system.
“Before imposing penalties on motorists, concerned agencies and operators must ensure that all their devices are reliable and glitch-free,” Poe said in a statement.
As it is, she said, “many motorists still complain about their RFIDs not being read as they pass through the toll plazas. Manual scanning of the cards is done that takes time and causes the logjam of vehicles.”
Some devices also do not reflect the RFID balance depriving motorists the information on how much funds they still have, added the senator, reflecting complaints
from motorists.
“Every day, we still see queues of vehicles on the solitary booth along NLEX that installs the RFID, manifesting the lack of venues for access to the stickers.
Sen. Bong Go backs creation of new CA divisions to hasten court cases
ON Wednesday, September 18, Senator SEN. Christopher “Bong” Go has backed efforts for judicial reform by, among others, creating additional divisions in the Court of Appeals (CA) to help address the overwhelming caseload burdening the judiciary.
Go championed Senate Bill No. 1186 in a public hearing of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights. The bill seeks to amend Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, or the Judiciary Reorganization Act.
Every Filipino facing legal charges is entitled to a speedy trial and fair disposition of cases, which the current system often struggles to deliver due to back -
logs and delays, Go said.
“As the number of cases continues to rise, our courts are under increasing pressure to resolve disputes in a timely and fair manner. As they say—Justice delayed is justice denied. That is why I filed this measure to help every Filipino, when accused, the right to a speedy trial and to a speedy disposition of a case against him,” said Go.
The measure seeks to establish three new divisions in the Court of Appeals, each with three justices, to ease caseload pressures and ensure swift resolutions. Under the proposed plan, the first 17 divisions will be based in Manila to handle cases from the Third to Fifth Judicial Regions, while three additional divisions
will be stationed in Cebu for cases from the Sixth to Eighth Judicial Regions.
Cagayan de Oro will house the 21st to 23rd divisions, which will process cases from the Ninth and Tenth Judicial Regions, while Vigan City will host the 24th division for cases from the First and Second Judicial Regions. Lastly, Davao City will become the home for the 25th and 26th divisions, which will cover the Eleventh and Twelfth Judicial Regions. This proposed expansion will increase the number of CA justices from 69 to 78, boosting the judiciary’s ability to dispense justice efficiently. The bill also mandates that trials and hearings be concluded within three months unless
“With the imposition of the toll fees, a seamless and efficient toll collection technology is what was promised to road users.
“Our motorists deserve to get quality service that they are paying for,” stressed Poe.
We reiterate our query— whatever happened to the promise to have only one RFID for all tollways?” Transport authorities, noted the senator, should also keep a lane for cash payments for unforeseen circumstances like when the scanners that do not work.
extended by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, ensuring that delays are kept to a minimum. Go reiterated that these proposed reforms can lead to a more efficient judiciary, as they address delays that have long plagued the justice system. “The fulfillment of the Judiciary’s mandate should not be jeopardized by the sheer number of cases being handled by them,” he concluded. Meanwhile, in the same manifestation, the senator also highlighted the need for SBN 1185 or the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Modernization Act.
“Let us be reminded that these measures are necessary reforms that will address the challenges faced by these institutions. By modernizing the Bureau of Immigration and expanding the capacity of the Court of Appeals, we are reinforcing the foundation of governance and justice system in the country,” Go concluded.
Butch Fernandez
PHL, Singapore armed forces hold disaster response training
IN line with ongoing efforts to beef up the country’s disaster response capabilities, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducted a table top exercise with the Singapore Armed Force (SAF)’s Changi Regional Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Coordination Centre (RHCC) from September 18 to 19.
The event took place at the Office of Civil Defense building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
In a statement Friday, AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said, “The exercise aimed to strengthen coordination and enhance interoperability during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief [HADR] operations between the AFP, RHCC, and other participating agencies.”
The exercise focused on key objectives, including fostering stronger relationships between the SAF and the AFP, improving joint HADR operations, and promoting the OPERA v2 Computer Information System (CIS) as a vital platform for information sharing and planning.
“The activity also aimed to establish robust network linkages and understanding between the AFP, RHCC, SAF, and various Philippine disaster management offices, government agencies, and civilian partners,” Trinidad said.
After a series of academic leveling lectures, participants worked in a scenario where a “Magnitude 7.2 earthquake with Intensity VIII” struck Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Metro Manila, which particularly suffered regional isolation.
Prior to the exercise, participants engaged in virtual pre-exercise academic sessions covering key topics such as the Philippine Risk Reduction and Management System, the Philippine Harmonized National Contingency Plan, the NDRRMC Disaster Response Cluster, the Philippine International Humanitarian Assistance framework, and the OPERA CIS.
A key takeaway from the exercise was how it helped both armed forces learn and understand the commonalities and differences in each country’s approach to HADR operations.
It also identified gaps and areas for improvement in disaster response management, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in future joint operations.
The collaboration between the AFP and RHCC, alongside other governmental and nongovernmental agencies, ensures a more coordinated and efficient approach to HADR operations, reinforcing the country’s disaster preparedness efforts.
Rex Anthony Naval
DFA seeks to hasten phaseout of TOPS consular offices, boost cyber security
By Butch Fernandez & Malou Talosig-Bartolome
SENATORS have promised funding support to the Department of Foreign Affairs’ program to boost its consular offices nationwide and completely phase out the pandemic-era “TOPS” offsite passport centers, that they suspect were used to provide passports to nonFilipinos who were later involved in crimes.
Sen. Loren Legarda, presiding at the Senate Finance Sub-committee hearing on DFA’s P27.4-billion 2025 budget, advised Secretary Enrique Manalo to immediately work on the paperwork to justify additional funding to set up DFA organic consular offices to fully replace its Temporary Offsite Passport Services that were set up during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Asked by Legarda how much it would cost in the 2025 budget to
open new consular units to replace TOPS, Manalo said it was about P98.4 million
Legarda openly aired her suspicion that the TOPS may have been the venue through which some non-Filipinos, including Pogo workers, secured passports fraudulently.
She described the threat posed by allowing non-citizens to breach the passport system as a “national security risk,” noting the authori -
Michael Yang’s brother held, tagged an ‘undesirable alien’
ties’ current dilemma in catching all those responsible for abetting Pogo-related crimes like document fraud, human trafficking and money laundering.
Breach of passport data?
MEANWHILE , the fears that the data of 28 million Filipino passport holders is being compromised in the dark web, apparently after the government-owned and -controlled corporation (GOCC) in charge of printing passports was hacked.
The GOCC, APO Production Unit Inc. under the administrative supervision of the Office of Presidential Communications Office, has been contracted by the DFA to print Philippine passports.
“We are very concerned about the security of more than 28 million passport data. It’s something that we would really like to protect…. Unfortunately, I have to say, we are not happy with one GOCC that is in charge of printing of the passports,” DFA Assistant Secretary Adelio Cruz said during the budget hearing Thursday.
Legarda asked Cruz if the passport data are now being sold in the dark web, and he replied, “There have been several incidents where
By Nonie Reyes
THE brother of former President Duterte’s controversial economic adviser Michael Yang was arrested late Thursday by Philippine authorities for being an undesirable alien.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) and the Intelligence Unit in cooperation with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) handcuffed Yang Jianxin alias Antonio Lim as he stepped out of a Cebu Pacific plane from Cagayan de Oro Thursday night at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 around 10 pm.
Yang Jianxin, 54, is the older brother of Michael Yang or Ming Yang, the Presidential Economic adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Michael’s role in the Pharmally and POGO fiasco has been the subject of congressional investigations. Just Thursday morning, his name was cited by Laguna Rep.
the data or system has been allegedly breached. Unfortunately, they [APO] would not admit to the gravity or to the degree of the breach. We believe that is being sugar-coated.”
Cruz told Legarda that they would like to propose to Congress that the DFA hire an “independent, highly dependable and efficient cybersecurity system exclusive for the Office of Consular Affairs.”
“We are seriously looking into the possibility of employing a cybersecurity system for all our passport data. We are negotiating with several companies, trying to get the best possible rate… so we can sleep soundly at night and not a single passport data is sold in the dark web,” he added.
Legarda asked the DFA to submit to her the report on the cyber security attacks on the passport data and for PCO, APO and DFA to meet with her on this matter.
Last July, a cybersecurity group Deep Web Konek, has monitored that an email account of a DFA high ranking official and being sold in the dark web. (See related story: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2024/07/05/no-stateactor-detected-so-far-in-dfaemail-data-breach/)
Dan Fernandez during the House Quad committee hearing.
The older Yang, meanwhile, faces a deportation case for being undesirable, having allegedly misrepresented himself as a Filipino and falsifying information regarding the Securities and Exchange (SEC) certification of Phil Sanjia Corporation which he owns, as reported by the PAOCC.
Filipino employees of the company were reported to have filed complaints for his non-remittance of their Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth contributions. Yang was turned over to the custody of the PAOCC who will likewise conduct an investigation on the complaints they received. If found guilty, Yang faces deportation and blacklisting, according to BI Officer-in-Charge Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado. However, deportation will only commence upon the resolution of all pending cases in the Philippines.
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Juan de la Cruz as a modern-day Job
TO be honest, I’m very reluctant to read the Book of Job. It is one of the darkest and most excruciating stories in the Bible, with striking and overwhelming images. It is also long, 39 chapters all in all. And the bulk of those verses consists of lament and moaning and complaining and suffering. It’s painful to read. As an old time hippie would say, “heavy, man, heavy.”
Time BusinessMirror Our
₧29 per kilo rice sold to seniors, vulnerable groups in Ilocos Norte
By Leilanie Adriano
By Nick Tayag
my sixty-zen’s WORtH
What I can’t take is that it is all about undeserved innocent suffering, Job loses his children, his possessions, and his health, even if he is described as “blameless,” a righteous man, faithful to God.
And having said that, I find it also as one of the most interesting stories in the Bible with some surprisingly relevant lessons to teach us today.
For one thing, as a Filipino I can relate to the biblical Job. I see Juan de la Cruz in him.
One native religious leader founded a religion on the belief we Filipinos are the chosen people in the Far East. Yes, but “chosen” to suffer the slings and arrows of fate without letup. Is God toying with us? Like what happened to Job, it seems that God has chosen the Filipino nation to experience endless trials and afflictions to see how far we can endure, in a bet with Satan.
The onslaught of misfortunes that befell on Job parallels Juan de la Cruz’s own litany of afflictions and suffering. It’s an overload of awful negatives, enough to turn any other nation into a failed state.
Let us cite them to the cadence of Billy Joel’s song “We Didn’t Start The Fire”: widespread unalleviated poverty, calamities, disasters, epidemics, corruption infected government, exploitation of the powerless, inefficient bureaucracy, malfunctioning infrastructure, worsening urban congestion and traffic situation, rising costs of electricity, water, and gas, unaffordable cost of medicines and medical care, dysfunctional justice system, and worsening quality of education.
Yet Juan de la Cruz seems generally unperturbed about his situation at the lower depths of progress and prosperity. Just like the frog that is being slowly boiled alive, he does not perceive the danger as he is slowly being cooked to death.
To me, the better metaphor is “kumunoy,” which translates to either quicksand or swamp. We tried soft leadership, we allowed hard autocratic leadership and even enthusiastically embraced criminal autocratic leadership, but nothing could extricate us from forces that keep pulling us under. We had brief window of opportunities to rise but we did not seize them.
It is worth noting that the name of our national icon character, Juan de la Cruz, carries the word cruz. The cross signifying suffering is attached to our identity like birthmark or a scarlet letter hanging around our neck. Being a “pendejo” and a suffering nation seems to have become embedded in our cultural DNA. As we colloquially say, “pinangatawan na.” This is why Job’s ordeal of suffering resonates profoundly. The
amount of affliction Juan de la Cruz has experienced and continues to undergo mirrors Job in the pit of despair.
I find myself wondering: “When will it end?” “Why us?” “Why do these bad things happen to good people like us?” When will fate give the Filipino a break? I refuse to throw up my hands in despair and give up. After all, we are still relatively a young nation, barely learning to stand on our own feet.
But our time will surely come. If the 3,000 years of recorded history of humankind can be a guide, every nation will have its given moment to impact human progress. Since history moves in epic time, it will take many generations. It may come 100 or 50 years from now or sooner than we think, but we will surely rise.
Meanwhile, no pun intended, let’s make it our job to make things right. The work of change will begin with and through us.
We need a galvanizing vision a la “Age of Pericles,” “Pax Romana,” or “Pax Brittanica” or the “Hallyu” of South Korea. Ours can be as simple as “Ikaw Na,” your turn to shine.
The seed of hope is in our youth. Our nation’s vast young population puts us in a sweet demographic spot in economic development. In contrast, China, Japan, and South Korea are plagued by dwindling youth population who are experiencing frustration and demoralization in their respective countries.
Experts say this “demographic sweet spot” has the potential to supercharge our nation’s growth over the next three decades.
This is why we need to purposely tend to our seedbed of bright saplings in our midst. It means investing heavily and continuously in enhancing the quality of their education. Equally important, let’s instill in them a deep affective bond with our motherland and love for our culture so they take pride in what we have and who we are.
Only an awakened, highly educated, deeply patriotic future generation can start changing the course of our “pendejo” status and propel us towards our “ikaw na” destiny. I take comfort in the ending of the Book of Job where the story turns towards hope and vindication, after all the harrowing trials endured by Job. In the end, he is blessed with twice the wealth he had before.
In the same way, in God’s time, Juan de la Cruz, will be brought up “from the pit to the light, in the light of the living.” Ikaw na, Juan!
LAOAG
CITY—Senior
citizens, persons with disability, and solo parents availed themselves of cheap rice sold at P29 per kilogram during the grand launching of the Bagong Bayaning Magsasaka (BBM) Rice held at the National Irrigation Administration compound in San Nicolas town, Ilocos Norte on Friday.
“Thank you, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for your love to Region 1 especially my town in San Nicolas,” said Violeta Pasion, a resident of the town’s Barangay 18 Bingao.
The low-priced grains were sourced from the National Irrigation Administration’s (NIA) contract farming with irrigators’ association members in the province.
Along with Pasion, Epifania Aliado, 81, and Erlina Deus, 78, also from San Nicolas town, showed their identification cards as senior citizens to the NIA personnel to avail themselves of the P29 per kilo rice merchandise.
“This is a big help for us. I hope they will continue to sell cheap rice as we have been buying our rice supply from rice traders at prices ranging from P52 to P60 per kilo,” said Aliado. The selling of cheap rice in the province is part of the government’s pilot program on contract farming, which subsidized the farm inputs and farm machinery of farmers to lower the price of the grains sold to consumers.
Engr. Joselito De Vera, acting division manager of the Ilocos Norte Irrigation Management Office, said in an interview on Friday that Ilocos Norte has a total of 901 hectares dedi-
cated for contract farming.
“This enabled us to secure five tons of rice which we have started to sell to the vulnerable sector until the supply lasts,” said De Vera.
Under the initial contract farming agreement with the irrigators’ associations, NIA will purchase 50 percent of their produce to be sold to vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, PWDs, and solo parents.
The remaining 50 percent will be left at the discretion of the farmers, who may sell it to private traders at competitive prices of up to P35 per kilo, which is still cheaper than the prevailing market price.
BEIJING—Starting next year,
China will raise its retirement age for workers, which is now among the youngest in the world’s major economies, in an effort to address its shrinking population and aging work force.
The Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, the country’s legislature, passed the new policy on Friday after a sudden announcement earlier in the week that it was reviewing the measure, state broadcaster CCTV announced.
The policy change will be carried out over 15 years, with the retirement age for men raised to 63 years, and for women to 55 or 58 years depending on their jobs.
The current retirement age is 60 for men and 50 for women in blue-collar jobs and 55 for women doing white-collar work.
“We have more people coming into the retirement age, and so the pension fund is [facing] high pressure. That’s why I think it’s now time to act seriously,” said Xiujian Peng, a senior research fellow at Victoria University in Australia who studies China’s population and its ties to the economy.
The previous retirement ages were set in the 1950s, when life expectancy was only around 40 years, Peng said.
The policy will be implemented starting in January, according to the announcement from China’s legislature. The change will take effect progressively
To reach out to more vulnerable groups targeted under this pilot rice program, Rhoda Galban, chief of the agribusiness and marketing division of the Department of Agriculture, said that cheap rice will soon be available in Kadiwa rolling stores across the Ilocos region.
“This is just the beginning of having better access to quality and affordable rice. We have established Kadiwa sites and rolling stores where people can buy cheaper goods,” she said. PNA
De Vera said more areas are being considered for the expansion of contract farming in the next planting season to sustain the production of low-priced grains.
Facing aging crisis, China raises retirement age
based on people’s birthdates.
For example, a man born in January 1971 could retire at the age of 61 years and 7 months in August 2032, according to a chart released along with the policy.
A man born in May 1971 could retire at the age of 61 years and 8 months in January 2033.
Demographic pressures made the move long overdue, experts say. By the end of 2023, China counted nearly 300 million people over the age of 60. By 2035, that figure is projected to be 400 million, larger than the population of the US. The Chinese Academy of Social Sciences had previously projected that the public pension
fund will run out of money by that year. Pressure on social benefits such as pensions and social security is hardly a Chinaspecific problem. The US also faces the issue as analysis shows that currently, the Social Security fund won’t be able to pay out full benefits to people by 2033.
“This is happening everywhere,” said Yanzhong Huang, senior fellow for global health at the Council on Foreign Relations. “But in China with its large elderly population, the challenge is much larger.”
That is on top of fewer births, as younger people opt out of having children, citing high costs. In 2022, China’s National Bureau of Statistics reported
that for the first time the country had 850,000 fewer people at the end of the year than the previous year, a turning point from population growth to decline. In 2023, the population shrank further, by 2 million people. What that means is that the burden of funding elderly people’s pensions will be divided among a smaller group of younger workers, as pension payments are largely funded by deductions from people who are currently working.
Researchers measure that pressure by looking at a number called the dependency ratio, which counts the number of people over the age of 65 compared to the number of workers under 65. That number was 21.8 percent in 2022, according to government statistics, meaning that roughly five workers would support one retiree. The percentage is expected to rise, meaning fewer workers will be shouldering the burden of one retiree. The necessary course correction will cause short-term pain, experts say, coming at a time of already high youth unemployment and a soft economy. Some of the comments on social media when the policy review was announced earlier in the week reflected this anxiety.
But of the 13,000 comments on the Xinhua news post announcing the news, only a few dozen were visible, suggesting that many others had been censored.
As Jimmy Carter nears his 100th birthday, a tribute musical gala celebrates the ‘rock-and-roll president’
By Bill Barrow | The Associated Press
ATLANTA—A range of stars from the stage, screen and sport paid tribute Tuesday to former President Jimmy Carter ahead of his 100th birthday, the eclectic lineup meant to highlight the 39th president’s emphasis on human rights and his love of music as a universal language.
“Everyone here is making history,” Jason Carter, the former president’s grandson, told more than 4,000 people who filled Atlanta’s Fox Theatre to toast the longest-lived US executive in history. “This is the first time people have come together to celebrate the 100th birthday of an American president.”
The benefit concert, with ticket sales funding international programs of The Carter Center that Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter founded in 1982 after leaving the White House, brought together artists that crossed generations and genres that
traced back to his 1976 campaign. The concert will be aired in full on Georgia Public Broadcasting on October 1, Carter’s birthday. Carter remains in hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia.
“He really was the rock-and-roll president,” said Chuck Leavell, whose Georgia-based Allman Brothers Band campaigned with Carter in 1976. But more than that, Leavell said, Carter always understood music as something “that brings people together.”
Indeed, Tuesday’s run of show assembled artists as varied as India Arie singing R&B and soul draped in a resplendent purple gown; the B-52s, formed in Athens, Georgia, singing “Love Shack” and projecting psychedelic imagery across the concert hall; and the Atlanta Symphony Chamber Chorus bringing a classical and patriotic repertoire.
Former President Barack Obama, known for releasing his summer playlists on social media, marveled at the range.
“Now I have another reason to respect you,” Obama said in a video message. “He has got great taste in music.... I’ve never thrown a concert that features pop, rock, gospel, country, jazz, classical and hiphop.” Of course, Obama noted, “Jimmy never passes up the opportunity to send a message,” and several artists referenced one of Carter’s widely circulated quotes about music: “One of the things that has held America together has been the music that we share and love.” Leavell took the stage multiple times Tuesday, reprising music he played and sang almost 50 years ago when Carter, then an underdog former Georgia governor, outpaced better-known Democrats to win his party’s nomination and the presidency in the
“When
PeoPle on
Sen. Gatchalian wants to revisit 8-wk literacy, numeracy program
AGENERAL review of the proposed “Eight-Week Literacy and Numeracy Program” is underway to address its potential effects on learning outcomes and fiscal implications.
Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian presided over a public hearing of the Committee on Basic Education in the Department of Education (DepEd) on September 16 to formulate policy proposals that address the regular academic program’s suspension.
Editor: Mike Policarpio
Volunteer represents PHL in intl youth-productivity training
assessed were non-readers.
Out of the 107,655 Grade-2 pupils, 9 percent of the 61 percent are unable to read; while of the total 100,091 Grade-3 learners, 8 percent out of the 62 percent
Gatchalian questioned DepEd officials on the literacy of Grades 1 to 3 pupils, and learned that out of the 184,488 Grade-1 learners for School Year 2023-2024, 16 percent of the 61 percent assessed were non-readers.
“I just want to go to the basics because we all know that regionally, this was an offshoot of the pandemic,” the senator remarked.
“We saw the report of the World Bank which showed that 19 per -
cent of our 15-year olds could not read.”
He furthered that, “because of that information, the government as well as the Senate came up with different approaches to our academic recovery.”
City of Manila public servants sharpen skills via knowledge-boosting classes
TO strengthen technical capabilities, personnel and representatives of neighboring local-council offices within the City of Manila recently immersed in resolution-writing and administrative knowledgeenhancement workshops.
Dubbed “Let’s Take A Break,” industry practitioners and professionals facilitated lectures and seminars which served as an opportunity for the participants to widen their awareness and skills
in the efficiency of governance. The experts equipped attendees with necessary tools and innovative practices to manage their duties more effectively.
De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde’s (DLS-CSB) School of Multidisciplinary Studies (SMS) Communication-Literature Area educator Oliver Ofracio guided the officials on the key processes of planning and drafting formal documents. His talk highlighted in-depth research and keen atten -
tion to details as important facets in producing comprehensive, well-written, and credible reports.
For web site tools exploration, the audience engaged in a training session on digital forms led by Benilde SMS Communication-Literature secretary Ira Marie Hernandez. She also demonstrated stepby-step instructions for uploading and sharing online files using software platforms to streamline the operation work flow.
Lawyer and Rotary Club (RCC)
of Congressional president Ariel Genaro Jawid shared his skill on the application of the constitutional procedures. His presentation offered valuable insights on crafting clear, precise, and extensive legal records.
The event was organized by the DLS-CSB SMS CommunicationLiterature Area and the Benilde Center for Social Action (CSA), in partnership with the RCC.
SMS Dean Dr. Basilia Blay underscored that the initiative was part of the institution’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and capacity building: “We believe in empowering our public servants with the right competencies for meaningful leadership and service delivery in our society.”
This remark was echoed by Benilde CSA director Mayflor Artagame, who pointed out that the occasion provided solutions that will address clerical challenges in the work place: “Mastering these techniques will contribute to productive management and communication within the barangays and ultimately will support the City of Manila’s objectives and goals.”
Mapúa kicks off working pros programs with Arizona State U
AS a global leader in education, Mapúa University’s vision is to foster sustainable economic growth in society through innovation, digital transformation, and lifelong learning. These qualities are important in today’s fast-paced professional landscape, where upskilling is essential in building career longevity.
Responding to evolving requirements demanded by professionals across industries, Mapúa University offers new programs designed to cater to the needs of various learners seeking to add new competencies to their skill sets.
To foster the development of business leaders capable of thriving in today’s knowledge-based global economy, the Mapúa University E.T. Yuchengco School of Business, in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), proudly launches its new Master of Business Administration (MBA) program anchored on a curriculum that meets the demands of today’s dynamic business environment. This initiative aims to provide a flexible and comprehensive educational experience that empowers individuals to enhance their skills and achieve their career goals.
Pursuing an MBA degree offers various advantages: It develops critical hard and soft skills for business, expands job prospects, and increases salary potential. In the Philippines, more learners are opting to accomplish their advanced degrees abroad, as the number of students seeking higher education in different countries is growing annually. However, overseas education can be costly, which deprives many students from the career benefits of finishing that Master’s degree.
The MBA program offered by the Mapúa University E.T. Yuchengco School of Business, in collaboration with ASU, is empowered by global immersion, realworld experiential learning, and digital mastery. It is designed to equip learners with essential business skills to help lead the way for tomorrow’s global businesses.
“Having a Master’s degree in business administration empowers one’s potential for professional advancement. Its benefits apply across various industries and areas of focus,” says Dr Bonifacio T. Doma Jr., who is the executive vice president for International Alliances and Cintana Partnership executive director. “The MBA program offered by the Mapúa
University E.T. Yuchengco School of Business in collaboration with ASU aims to create greater access to world-class education grounded on transformative curriculum and experience that shapes students into leaders who can act, build, and positively impact the evolving business landscape.”
Leveling up professionals SUPPORTING professionals who aspire to enhance their expertise and open doors to further career opportunities, Mapúa also offers a Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Management and a Master of Arts in Psychology jointly with ASU. Mapúa’s School of Health Sciences, in cooperation with ASU, utilizes an ASU-enhanced curriculum to accelerate its MA in Psychology program, tailored for professionals aiming to advance careers in the fields of research, human resources, organizational development, and education. The program provides graduate students with high-level training in psychology education, research, and professional practice through real-world case studies and industry mentorship.
Moreover, the BS in Real Estate Management Program is designed to ensure graduates stay in
AMEMBER of I am MAD (Making A Difference)
Volunteers Inc.—a nationwide nonprofit group—was one of two Filipinos selected to represent the Philippines at the “Development of Productivity Practitioners for the Youth” training. The event, organized by the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) in cooperation with the Mongolia Productivity Organization, took place recently in Ulaanbaatar.
Jake Villanueva, I am MAD’s volunteer lead for content and resident host of “The MAD Talks Show,” was chosen after a rigorous selection process from several nominees in the Philippines. A university extension specialist in the Training and Entrepreneurship Education Division of the University of the Philippines-Institute for Small-Scale Industries, he joined 25 other participants from 16 Asian countries, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Fiji, India, Indonesia, South Korea, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.
The Development of Produc -
THE Asian Institute of Management (AIM) is set to revolutionize the local education landscape with the launch of its Master in Data Analytics (MDA) program.
step with the rest of the world’s evolving practices in real estate. As a product of collaboration, the program is hinged on concepts, theories, and fundamental principles of real estate management. It is grounded on a Licensureready curriculum that features industry-relevant government laws and business-management theories helping students apply expert-level knowledge across various real estate disciplines from sales, brokerage, appraisal, and consultancy.
With the fast-paced development of industries, Mapúa University’s programs are designed to cater to the needs of all kinds of students, maximizing education to ensure globally competitive graduates in as little as one year, subject to university requirements and learner pacing.
“Our…second-degree programs [implemented] with ASU are designed to give students a distinct advantage in their future fields,” said Dr. Dodjie Maestrecampo, who is Mapúa University’s president and CEO. “These accelerated programs offer students a holistic academic journey that shapes futures through innovative learning models, founded on rich traditions of Mapúan academic excellence.”
This innovative program introduced in August addresses the escalating demand for skilled data analysts globally, and positions AIM at the forefront of “Industry 4.0,” according to a statement from the institute.
The Analytics Association of the Philippines (AAP) estimates that by 2028, the country will need 500,000 analytics professionals. This significant figure, however, only considers the information technology sector, suggesting the actual demand could be higher in other industries such as marketing, sales, media, public relations, human resources, and government.
Recognizing the critical role of data in driving an organization’s success, AIM has carefully designed a curriculum that equips professionals with the essential tools and knowledge to harness the power of data. The 18-month, part-time, and hybrid program offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing working professionals to seamlessly integrate their graduate studies with their careers.
“The business landscape is rapidly evolving. Leaders who can harness the power of data and artificial intelligence will undoubtedly shape the future,” said Prof. Corinne Burgos PhD, who is AIM’s
tivity Practitioners of the Youth is a flagship program of the APO, designed to cultivate a cadre of productivity experts in its member-economies. The program imparts the basic knowledge and skills to develop productivity consultants and trainers, primarily targeting individuals working in industry or professionals affiliated with National Productivity Organizations. The training aimed to raise productivity awareness among young people in APO membercountries. It covered key concepts of productivity, tools and techniques for productivity enhancement, youth development, economic participation, the use of generative artificial intelligence in productivity, and the design of productivity programs for the youth.
I am MAD is committed to supporting its volunteers in their personal and professional growth. For the latest updates and information on ways to get involved, follow and message the NGO at fb.com/IamMakingADifference or e-mail iammadph@gmail.com.
MDA Academic Program director. The MDA program will provide students with a deep understanding of data collection, analysis, interpretation, and visualization. Graduates will be empowered to extract actionable insights, make data-driven decisions, and contribute significantly to their organizations’ growth and competitiveness.
With a focus on practical application, the program delivers a curriculum blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Students will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and gain exposure to best practices in various industries.
“This is not merely obtaining a degree, but a strategic investment,” said Prof. Burgos. She emphasized that “by enrolling, you are not just acquiring knowledge; you are equipping yourself with the tools to shape your future, whether…through automation, robotics, AI, and data analytics.” AIM is committed to producing graduates who are not only technically proficient, but also have strong business acumen. Its MDA program seeks to develop wellrounded data professionals capable of effectively communicating insights to diverse audiences. The program offers exceptional value for its comprehensive education and career-advancement opportunities. Applications for the April 2025 intake are now open. For more information, visit aim.edu.
I AM MAD’S lead for content Jake Villanueva (second from right) receives his certificate of completion
BARANGAY officials and staff together with Benilde’s School of Multidisciplinary Studies dean Dr. Basilia Blay (front row, second from right) during the barangay resolution writing and administrative enhancement workshops.
GATCHALIAN P NA/AVITO DALAN
Tourism Editor: Edwin P. Sallan
CANYONS, CLIFFS, AND CRYSTAL WATERS
ThE uLTImATE CEbu ADvENTuRE AWAITS IN bADIAN
Story & photos by John Eiron R. Francisco
BADIAN, CEBU—For many, exploring the historical landmarks of Queen City of the South might seem like the ultimate way to experience the island. However, for those who venture to the southwestern part of Cebu, a whole new dimension of adventure awaits, particularly in the adrenaline-charged world of Kawasan Canyoneering.
Tucked away in the charming town of Badian, near the famed scuba-diving hotspot of Moalboal, Kawasan Canyoneering has been an adrenaline junkie’s paradise since it first opened in 2015.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill outdoor activity—it’s a four-hour, full-throttle experience packed with cliff diving, trekking, and swimming through cool, turquoise waters surrounded by rugged canyon walls. As you navigate this watery maze, every leap, every splash, and every cliff-side vista becomes a pulsepounding memory.
What initially might seem like an exaggeration in terms of duration is actually just the right amount of time to dive deep into the thrill of the experience.
The adventure kicks off with a briefing from the local guides, all of whom are seasoned veterans when it comes to keeping tourists safe and entertained. Helmets are buckled, life vests snugly strapped, and nerves steeled. To handle the growing number of tourists safely, a oneon-one tour guide system has been implemented, operating daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a maximum two trips for tour guides per day.
Our particular tour guide, Junior revealed that the influx of tourism has significantly transformed
the local way of life, with nearly a thousand visitors—both local and international—coming each day. Before tourism surged, the primary livelihoods in the area were farming and fishing.
After being temporarily closed in June 2022 due to Typhoon Odette’s damage and issues with illegal structures, the Cebu provincial government-led activity site reopened in October 2023.
Before making the first jump, adventurers have the choice: take a leisurely 30-minute hike down the mountain or soar like a superhero on a kilometer-long zipline. Make sure to don your aqua shoes and athletic pants to dodge any cheeky scratches from the rocks while you soak in those jaw-dropping cliffside views.
As you make your way through the canyons, each plunge seems more daring than the last, testing your resolve and flooding your senses with pure exhilaration. But trust me, as terrifying as it may seem standing on the edge, the rush of adrenaline you’ll feel mid-air will keep you coming back for more.
But for every thrilling drop, there’s also a quieter moment to appreciate the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding you, from cascading waterfalls to the sheer rock faces that tower above.
The cost of this adventure varies depending on whether tourists choose a tour package in Cebu or simply do a walk-in. Previously overseen by the provincial capitol, the fee was just P1,500. However, it now starts at P2,000, which includes safety gear, meals like water and light snacks. So if you’re gearing up for this adventure, it’s probably best to skip that hefty meal beforehand. You’ll be hopping, climbing and leaping around, and you don’t want your breakfast or lunch to make a surprise appearance.
But don’t worry, there are a few places along the way where you can snag some street food like barbecue and drinks. So if you need to recharge, feel free to grab a snack. Just remember, once you start this adventure, its like being on a roller coaster with no exit. No shortcuts allowed— its all or nothing until you reach the grand finale at Kawasan Falls.
If it’s your first time, you might catch yourself midway through, wondering how you got here—dangling on the edge of a cliff, preparing
Are you a tourist or a traveler?
share their views about the tourist versus traveler debate:
“Being a tourist is having a standard itinerary and following the norms of how and what to explore. While being a traveler is going beyond the typical experience and about connecting to a place, its culture, and its people, in a more spontaneous and offbeat but meaningful way.”
–Apollo Noel Santos, Public Relations Manager, NUSTAR Resort and Founder, Slogos Night and Quiz Night
“Tourists often go to popular attractions, seek familiar sights and the comfort of the crowd. Travelers, on the other hand, are more interested in deeper experiences, immersing in local culture and discovering hidden gems.”
–Glen Santillan, Influencer and Founder, Escape Manila Blog.
“Travelers prefer immersive and exploratory trips, delving into local culture and off-the-beaten-path ad -
to leap into the unknown. Is this an audition for a Tarzan remake? Or did you unknowingly sign up for an extreme survival show? But as you soar through the air and take a sharp fall into the crystalline waters below, all doubt vanishes, you’ll feel like you’ve just completed an epic test of your own resilience and courage, with stories to tell that will leave your friends in awe.
And while the views will have you snapping photos non-stop for your social media feed, remember that safety should always be your
ventures to understand a place deeply.
Tourists, on the other hand, usually stick to popular attractions and conventional itineraries. However, many people who travel often, including me, embody a bit of both at the same time.”
–Kelly Austria, Managing Partner, RubyComm-K.Austria Public Relations consultancy.
“A tourist is often depicted as one who opts for the ease and comfort of packaged tours, sticks to mainstream attractions, and may not venture beyond their comfort zone. Conversely, a traveler is depicted as someone eager to fully engage with the local culture and lifestyle of the places they visit. They may be drawn to off-the-beatenpath locations, interact with locals, and have a flexible itinerary that allows for spontaneity. It’s essential to recognize that individuals can embody characteristics of both categories at different times. The choice to travel as a tourist or a traveler depends on personal preferences, travel objectives, and the specific context of the journey.”
–Melo Villareal, Travel writer, Influencer and Founder, Out of Town Blog.
top priority. The thrill of the adventure is only enjoyable when it’s balanced with a dose of responsibility—so take in the sights, embrace the rush, and leap with confidence. This is not just another stop on your Cebu itinerary; it’s an adventure that will stay with you long after you’ve dried off and returned to reality. Kawasan Canyoneering is where the island’s natural beauty meets the heart-pounding thrill of exploration—a must for anyone seeking the ultimate Cebu experience.
In general, tourists have limited travel days and jam-packed itineraries to make the most of their trip.
It’s not uncommon to see tourists doing a quick sneak-peek at museums and other attractions and then pose for photos before hopping off to the next destination. Travelers, on the other hand, tend to stay longer and go about sightseeing and other activities at their own pace and leisure, taking their time to take photos from several vantage points and take in the sights and sounds.
Beyond the labels though, the ability to travel to different places is a boon. Travel writer and influencer Marky r amone Go, founder of Nomadic Experiences Blog, shared, “People who wander are all travelers and tourists alike. Part of traveling is looking at the world as a borderless one, inhabited by all races free from labels and what-nots. Just enjoy every moment on the road. Snap that touristy pose, buy that souvenir, visit that touristy place and just stop being worried about labels.” Glen added, “Whatever your style,
remember: travel is a personal journey, a chance to expand your perspectives and create memories that stay with you even after you come home. The most important thing is to travel responsibly.”
My take? It really doesn’t matter if you’re a traveler or a tourist, or on slow travel, a DIY trip, a quick weekend getaway, or a package tour. What matters more is to be aware and mindful of your actions and habits—conscious that your presence leaves an impact in some way. And what matters most
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Instagram makes teen accounts private as pressure mounts on the app to protect children
INSTAGRAM is making teen accounts private by default as it tries to make the platform safer for children amid a growing backlash against how social media affects young people’s lives.
Beginning Tuesday in the US, UK, Canada and Australia, anyone under under 18 who signs up for Instagram will be placed into restrictive teen accounts and those with existing accounts will be migrated over the next 60 days. Teens in the European Union will see their accounts adjusted later this year.
Parent company Meta acknowledges that teenagers may lie about their age and says it will require them to verify their ages in more instances, like if they try to create a new account with an adult birthday. The Menlo Park, California company also said it is building technology that proactively finds teen accounts that pretend to be grownups and automatically places them into the restricted teen accounts.
The teen accounts will be private by default. Private messages are restricted so teens can only receive them from people they follow or are already connected to. “Sensitive content,” such as videos of people fighting or those promoting cosmetic procedures, will be limited, Meta said. Teens will also get notifications if they are on Instagram for more than 60 minutes and a “sleep mode” will be enabled that turns off notifications and sends auto-replies to direct messages from 10 pm until 7 am.
While these settings will be turned on for all teens, 16 and 17-year-olds will be able to turn them off. Kids under 16 will need their parents’ permission to do so.
“The three concerns we’re hearing from parents are that their teens are seeing content that they don’t want to see or that they’re getting contacted by people they don’t want to be contacted by or that they’re spending too much time on the app,” said Naomi Gleit, head of product at Meta. “So teen accounts is really focused on addressing those three concerns.”
The announcement comes as the company faces lawsuits from dozens of US states that accuse it of harming young people and contributing to the youth mental health crisis by knowingly and deliberately designing features on Instagram and Facebook that addict children to its platforms.
While Meta didn’t give specifics on how the changes might affect its business, the company said the changes may mean that teens will use Instagram less in the short term. Emarketer analyst Jasmine Enberg said the revenue impact of the changes “will likely be minimal.” New York Attorney General Letitia James said Meta’s announcement was “an important first step, but much more needs to be done to ensure our kids are protected from the harms of social media.” James’ office is working with other New York officials on how to implement a new state law intended to curb children’s access to what critics call addictive social media feeds.
Others were more critical. Nicole Gil, the cofounder and executive director of the nonprofit Accountable Tech, called Instagram’s announcement the “latest attempt to avoid actual independent oversight and regulation, and instead continue to selfregulate, jeopardizing the health, safety, and privacy of young people.”
“Today’s PR exercise falls short of the safety by design and accountability that young people and their parents deserve and only meaningful policy action can guarantee,” she said. “Meta’s business model is built on addicting its users and mining their data for profit; no amount of parental and teen controls Meta is proposing will change that.”
Nick Clegg, Meta’s president of global affairs, said last week that parents don’t use the parental controls the company has introduced in recent years.
US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy said last year that tech companies put too much responsibility on parents when it comes to keeping children safe on social media.
“We’re asking parents to manage a technology that’s rapidly evolving that fundamentally changes how their kids think about themselves, how they build friendships, how they experience the world— and technology, by the way, that prior generations never had to manage,” Murthy said in May 2023. AP
‘Shogun’ and the Takumi Philosophy
SINCE the premiere of Shogun on Disney+ early this year, our geek chat group has been engrossed in weekly discussions about the show’s plot twists, favorite characters, and the intricacies of 17th century Japan. Beyond the gripping storyline, the series has brought the Japanese Takumi spirit to life—a revered cultural philosophy centered on mastering craftsmanship through precision, patience and dedication. While Shogun showcases this spirit in its meticulous production, the Takumi philosophy transcends entertainment and is deeply embedded in some of Japan’s most iconic brands, such as Toshiba and Canon.
Adapted from James Clavell’s 1975 novel, Shogun transports viewers into the turbulent world of feudal Japan, where English navigator John Blackthorne becomes entangled in the political power struggles of Lord Toranaga, a daimyo vying to become the next shogun. Alongside Toda Mariko, a Christian noblewoman who serves as a cultural bridge between Japan and the West, the characters navigate a complex world where loyalty, honor and strategy are paramount. The series captured global attention with its breathtaking visuals, intricate storytelling, and cultural depth. Its critical acclaim culminated in a historic achievement as it became the most awarded non-English-language show in television history.
At the 2024 Primetime Emmy Awards, Shogun dominated, winning 18 awards out of 25 nominations.
The series took home the prestigious Outstanding Drama Series plum, marking a historic moment as the first non-English-language show to claim the title. Lead actor Hiroyuki Sanada and actress Anna Sawai were both recognized for their outstanding performances, while the show also earned accolades for its direction, writing, and cinematography. This sweeping success underscored Shogun’s global impact and reinforced its role in embodying the Takumi spirit—a commitment to excellence, mastery, and precision in every aspect of its production.
THE TAKUMI SPIRIT IN JAPANESE CULTURE
THE Takumi spirit is a deeply respected concept in Japanese culture that transcends technical skill. It reflects the mastery of a craft achieved through years of dedication, practice, and attention to detail. More than just “artisan” or “craftsman,” a Takumi is someone who constantly strives for perfection, refining their skills over decades. Whether it’s woodworking, sword-making, or culinary arts, the Takumi philosophy emphasizes a deep respect for tradition while embracing innovation and precision. In modern times, this spirit has expanded beyond traditional crafts and found its way into technological industries. Japanese brands like Toshiba and Canon have embraced the Takumi philosophy, applying
attention to detail, with their products serving as modern-day examples of Takumi in action.
TOSHIBA: MERGING TRADITION WITH INNOVATION
TOSHIBA Lifestyle Philippines recently highlighted the Takumi spirit in their latest product launch, introducing a new lineup of home appliances that reflect the same dedication to craftsmanship seen in the Emmy-winning Shogun series. As a global leader in home solutions, Toshiba has continually embraced the Takumi philosophy in its products, merging traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
The latest product line breaks traditional design boundaries, delivering features that go beyond expectations and setting new industry standards. Toshiba’s new lineup includes refrigerators, laundry machines, and cooking appliances available in sleek Morandi, Silver and Black designs. These appliances are not only aesthetically pleasing but also engineered with precision and craftsmanship—qualities that are synonymous with Toshiba products.
With each passing day becoming more fast-paced, balancing career, chores and personal endeavors has become increasingly complicated. Recognizing this, Toshiba took on the challenge to innovate and develop appliances that offer enhanced functionality and convenience. These products are designed to seamlessly integrate into modern lifestyles, ensuring efficiency without compromising on quality. From energy-efficient refrigerators to advanced laundry solutions, Toshiba’s products echo the Takumi philosophy by offering functionality that improves daily life while maintaining uncompromising attention to detail.
The Takumi spirit is further reflected in Toshiba’s new brand ambassadors, individuals who are masters of their respective fields. In a nod to this philosophy, Toshiba introduced Takashi Sorimachi, a renowned Japanese actor and singer, as their Regional Brand Ambassador. Sorimachi is best known for his role as
Locally, Toshiba also announced Amina AranazAlunan as the Takumi Master of Design, Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez as the Takumi Master of Home and Interior Design, and Chef JP Anglo as the Takumi Master of Food and Culinary Arts. Each of these ambassadors brings their own expertise and dedication to their craft, perfectly embodying Toshiba’s mission to bring Japanese quality and craftsmanship to Filipino homes.
Amina Aranaz-Alunan is celebrated as a visionary in the world of fashion and luxury handmade accessories. Her designs, which emphasize leisure and elegance, reflect the Takumi spirit’s focus on detail and craftsmanship. Similarly, Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez is a trailblazer in the field of furniture design, leading a lifestyle brand that champions Filipino craftsmanship while blending modern innovation. Chef JP Anglo, meanwhile, has put Filipino cuisine on the international stage with his culinary mastery, bringing a unique blend of tradition and innovation to the table.
“The Takumi spirit is a cherished manufacturing philosophy that reflects an uncompromising resistance to mediocrity and a true commitment to excellence—which is what Toshiba is all about. As it continues to break the boundaries of convention and develop enhanced functionality, we are thrilled to finally launch here in the Philippines our new ambassadors and product lineup that go beyond details and innovation, maintaining the brand’s pursuit of perfection,” shares Anna Marie Alejandro, general manager of Concepcion Midea Inc. Philippines (CMIP).
Distributed by CMIP, Toshiba Lifestyle products are backed up with Concepcion’s values of passion, compassion and excellence. With Concepcion’s notable after-sales service expertise and Toshiba’s remarkable innovation and Japanese craftsmanship, its extensive range of products provide everyday perfection to one home at a time.
Next week, Canon and its mastery in photography.
TOSHIBA Lifestyle Philippines executives with its brand ambassadors Amina AranazAlunan, Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez, and Chef JP Anglo.
www.businessmirror.com.ph
Instagram makes teen accounts private as pressure mounts on the app to protect children
INSTAGRAM is making teen accounts private by default as it tries to make the platform safer for children amid a growing backlash against how social media affects young people’s lives.
Beginning Tuesday in the US, UK, Canada and Australia, anyone under under 18 who signs up for Instagram will be placed into restrictive teen accounts and those with existing accounts will be migrated over the next 60 days. Teens in the European Union will see their accounts adjusted later this year.
Parent company Meta acknowledges that teenagers may lie about their age and says it will require them to verify their ages in more instances, like if they try to create a new account with an adult birthday. The Menlo Park, California company also said it is building technology that proactively finds teen accounts that pretend to be grownups and automatically places them into the restricted teen accounts.
The teen accounts will be private by default. Private messages are restricted so teens can only receive them from people they follow or are already connected to. “Sensitive content,” such as videos of people fighting or those promoting cosmetic procedures, will be limited, Meta said. Teens will also get notifications if they are on Instagram for more than 60 minutes and a “sleep mode” will be enabled that turns off notifications and sends auto-replies to direct messages from 10 pm until 7 am.
While these settings will be turned on for all teens, 16 and 17-year-olds will be able to turn them off. Kids under 16 will need their parents’ permission to do so.
“The three concerns we’re hearing from parents are that their teens are seeing content that they don’t want to see or that they’re getting contacted by people they don’t want to be contacted by or that they’re spending too much time on the app,” said Naomi Gleit, head of product at Meta. “So teen accounts is really focused on addressing those three concerns.”
The announcement comes as the company faces lawsuits from dozens of US states that accuse it of harming young people and contributing to the youth mental health crisis by knowingly and deliberately designing features on Instagram and Facebook that addict children to its platforms.
While Meta didn’t give specifics on how the changes might affect its business, the company said the changes may mean that teens will use Instagram less in the short term. Emarketer analyst Jasmine Enberg said the revenue impact of the changes “will likely be minimal.” New York Attorney General Letitia James said Meta’s announcement was “an important first step, but much more needs to be done to ensure our kids are protected from the harms of social media.” James’ office is working with other New York officials on how to implement a new state law intended to curb children’s access to what critics call addictive social media feeds.
Others were more critical. Nicole Gil, the cofounder and executive director of the nonprofit Accountable Tech, called Instagram’s announcement the “latest attempt to avoid actual independent oversight and regulation, and instead continue to selfregulate, jeopardizing the health, safety, and privacy of young people.”
“Today’s PR exercise falls short of the safety by design and accountability that young people and their parents deserve and only meaningful policy action can guarantee,” she said. “Meta’s business model is built on addicting its users and mining their data for profit; no amount of parental and teen controls Meta is proposing will change that.”
Nick Clegg, Meta’s president of global affairs, said last week that parents don’t use the parental controls the company has introduced in recent years.
US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy said last year that tech companies put too much responsibility on parents when it comes to keeping children safe on social media.
“We’re asking parents to manage a technology that’s rapidly evolving that fundamentally changes how their kids think about themselves, how they build friendships, how they experience the world— and technology, by the way, that prior generations never had to manage,” Murthy said in May 2023. AP
‘Shogun’ and the Takumi Philosophy
SINCE the premiere of Shogun on Disney+ early this year, our geek chat group has been engrossed in weekly discussions about the show’s plot twists, favorite characters, and the intricacies of 17th century Japan. Beyond the gripping storyline, the series has brought the Japanese Takumi spirit to life—a revered cultural philosophy centered on mastering craftsmanship through precision, patience and dedication. While Shogun showcases this spirit in its meticulous production, the Takumi philosophy transcends entertainment and is deeply embedded in some of Japan’s most iconic brands, such as Toshiba and Canon.
Adapted from James Clavell’s 1975 novel, Shogun transports viewers into the turbulent world of feudal Japan, where English navigator John Blackthorne becomes entangled in the political power struggles of Lord Toranaga, a daimyo vying to become the next shogun. Alongside Toda Mariko, a Christian noblewoman who serves as a cultural bridge between Japan and the West, the characters navigate a complex world where loyalty, honor and strategy are paramount. The series captured global attention with its breathtaking visuals, intricate storytelling, and cultural depth. Its critical acclaim culminated in a historic achievement as it became the most awarded non-English-language show in television history.
At the 2024 Primetime Emmy Awards, Shogun dominated, winning 18 awards out of 25 nominations.
The series took home the prestigious Outstanding Drama Series plum, marking a historic moment as the first non-English-language show to claim the title. Lead actor Hiroyuki Sanada and actress Anna Sawai were both recognized for their outstanding performances, while the show also earned accolades for its direction, writing, and cinematography. This sweeping success underscored Shogun’s global impact and reinforced its role in embodying the Takumi spirit—a commitment to excellence, mastery, and precision in every aspect of its production.
THE TAKUMI SPIRIT IN JAPANESE CULTURE
THE Takumi spirit is a deeply respected concept in Japanese culture that transcends technical skill. It reflects the mastery of a craft achieved through years of dedication, practice, and attention to detail. More than just “artisan” or “craftsman,” a Takumi is someone who constantly strives for perfection, refining their skills over decades. Whether it’s woodworking, sword-making, or culinary arts, the Takumi philosophy emphasizes a deep respect for tradition while embracing innovation and precision. In modern times, this spirit has expanded beyond traditional crafts and found its way into technological industries. Japanese brands like Toshiba and Canon have embraced the Takumi philosophy, applying
attention to detail, with their products serving as modern-day examples of Takumi in action.
TOSHIBA: MERGING TRADITION WITH INNOVATION
TOSHIBA Lifestyle Philippines recently highlighted the Takumi spirit in their latest product launch, introducing a new lineup of home appliances that reflect the same dedication to craftsmanship seen in the Emmy-winning Shogun series. As a global leader in home solutions, Toshiba has continually embraced the Takumi philosophy in its products, merging traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
The latest product line breaks traditional design boundaries, delivering features that go beyond expectations and setting new industry standards. Toshiba’s new lineup includes refrigerators, laundry machines, and cooking appliances available in sleek Morandi, Silver and Black designs. These appliances are not only aesthetically pleasing but also engineered with precision and craftsmanship—qualities that are synonymous with Toshiba products.
With each passing day becoming more fast-paced, balancing career, chores and personal endeavors has become increasingly complicated. Recognizing this, Toshiba took on the challenge to innovate and develop appliances that offer enhanced functionality and convenience. These products are designed to seamlessly integrate into modern lifestyles, ensuring efficiency without compromising on quality. From energy-efficient refrigerators to advanced laundry solutions, Toshiba’s products echo the Takumi philosophy by offering functionality that improves daily life while maintaining uncompromising attention to detail.
The Takumi spirit is further reflected in Toshiba’s new brand ambassadors, individuals who are masters of their respective fields. In a nod to this philosophy, Toshiba introduced Takashi Sorimachi, a renowned Japanese actor and singer, as their Regional Brand Ambassador. Sorimachi is best known for his role as
Locally, Toshiba also announced Amina AranazAlunan as the Takumi Master of Design, Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez as the Takumi Master of Home and Interior Design, and Chef JP Anglo as the Takumi Master of Food and Culinary Arts. Each of these ambassadors brings their own expertise and dedication to their craft, perfectly embodying Toshiba’s mission to bring Japanese quality and craftsmanship to Filipino homes.
Amina Aranaz-Alunan is celebrated as a visionary in the world of fashion and luxury handmade accessories. Her designs, which emphasize leisure and elegance, reflect the Takumi spirit’s focus on detail and craftsmanship. Similarly, Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez is a trailblazer in the field of furniture design, leading a lifestyle brand that champions Filipino craftsmanship while blending modern innovation. Chef JP Anglo, meanwhile, has put Filipino cuisine on the international stage with his culinary mastery, bringing a unique blend of tradition and innovation to the table.
“The Takumi spirit is a cherished manufacturing philosophy that reflects an uncompromising resistance to mediocrity and a true commitment to excellence—which is what Toshiba is all about. As it continues to break the boundaries of convention and develop enhanced functionality, we are thrilled to finally launch here in the Philippines our new ambassadors and product lineup that go beyond details and innovation, maintaining the brand’s pursuit of perfection,” shares Anna Marie Alejandro, general manager of Concepcion Midea Inc. Philippines (CMIP).
Distributed by CMIP, Toshiba Lifestyle products are backed up with Concepcion’s values of passion, compassion and excellence. With Concepcion’s notable after-sales service expertise and Toshiba’s remarkable innovation and Japanese craftsmanship, its extensive range of products provide everyday perfection to one home at a time.
Next week, Canon and its mastery in photography.
TOSHIBA Lifestyle Philippines executives with its brand ambassadors Amina AranazAlunan, Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez, and Chef JP Anglo.
A10 Saturday, September 21, 2024
GMs Sadorra, Gomez lift PHL
S’Africa
Cawdery on boards
and
and
The win was soothing for the Filipinos who rebounded from back-toback defeats to Armenia, 2.5-1.5, and Croatia, 3.5-.5, that kicked them out of the top 10. Sadorra, a coach at University of Texas in Dallas, said they need all the prayers and support when they go for a final push in their medal quest starting with their ninth-round duel with the United Arab Emirates.
“We will need all the encouragement to keep fighting hard for our team,” said Sadorra, who is running sixth in the individual medal race for board one. The Filipinas, on the other hand, absorbed a heartbreaking 2.5-15 defeat to 16th seed Turkey to also fall out of the top 20 and share 30th place also with 10.0 points.
Shania Mae Mendoza fought long and hard for a draw but faltered against Ekaterina Atalik in a marathon 100-move of a Slav encounter on board one.
Janelle Mae Frayna, Ruelle Canino and Bernadette Galas drew with Betul Cemre Yildiz Kadioglu, Gulaney Aydin and Hayale Isgenderova, respectively, in the lower boards, ahead of their match with 22nd seed Romanians.
Yunju, 13, conquers Forest Hills
YUNJU AN, only 13, closed out with a 74 but still booked a dominant seven-stroke victory over Gretchen Villacencio in the International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) Forest Hills Ladies Classic at the Nicklaus course in Antipolo City on Friday.
The Korean prodigy did not only withstood a fierce challenge from compatriot Jiwon Lee early on but did so with remarkable composure and skill that left both her competitors and spectators in awe. An wrapped up the 54-hole tournament with an impressive threeover 216 total—including a remarkable two-under 69 in the second round— to dominate with a flourish over Villacencio, who carded a 73 for a 223. Apo leg winner Sarah Ababa matched par with a 71 to tie Miya Legaspi, who shot a 73, at third place with 224s, while Chihiro Ikeda finished fifth with a
226 after a 75.
Lee, who started the final round in second place, five strokes behind An, made a strong push early and pulled within one stroke of the leader, but she faltered with a double bogey-bogeydouble bogey at the finish and ended up with an 80.
She dropped to a tie for sixth at 227 alongside fellow Korean Seoyun Kim, who carded a 74.
Three-leg winner Harmie
Constantino rallied with a 73 to earn a share of eighth place at 228 alongside Laurea Duque, who posted a 74, while Florence Bisera also mounted a comeback with a 73 to tie Mafy Singson, who put in a 74, at 10th place with 229.
While An dominated the field with her stellar performance, Villacencio, Ababa and Legaspi battled fiercely for runner-up honors and the top prize of P130,000.
In the end, Villacencio edged out her rivals with a par on the final hole,
as Ababa and Legaspi’s late birdie and eagle on No. 16, respectively, left them just one stroke short. Ababa and Legaspi halved the combined P165,000 second and third prizes.
Not even a bogey-bogey finish could derail An’s march to victory as she had built a comfortable cushion over her more seasoned opponents with birdies on the long 10th and 16th holes.
“My driving was good today, but the irons were a bit unstable,”
An said through an interpreter, her eyes wandering as she responded to questions at the Forest Hills clubhouse, which overlooks the 18th green. “My short game also needs improvement, but the putting was okay. Every time, two putts.”
“She has raw power,” said her coach, Philippine Golf Tour campaigner Dino Villanueva, who has been working with the young Korean for the past two months to improve her iron play and short game.
“Since her ball-striking is already impressive for her age, we’ve been focusing on the 110- and 120-yard shots. She’s improving with every tournament.”
An made her breakthrough in the local golf scene when she won the Junior PGT leg at Mount Malarayat three weeks ago in her debut. From that moment on, Villanueva, who also coaches at Woodrose School in Alabang, knew he had a future star in his stable.
“I’d like to thank my parents for their support, and also my grandma and uncles Kobe and Jack. I also want to thank coach Dino for teaching
Jahns hangs on with 2-shot lead
KJAHNS held tough despite struggling in the back nine to cling to a two-stroke lead over Randy Garalde—thanks to clutch birdies for a 71—in the International Container Terminal Setvices Inc. (ICTSI) Forest Hills Classic in Antipolo City on Friday. What looked like a commanding five-shot cushion at the halfway point nearly vanished as Jahns now faces a test of resilience and composure in his bid to win an elusive first
Philippine Golf Tour crown at the Nicklaus course.
“I struggled with the slow greens and needed time to adjust,” Jahns said. “I had good lines on several birdie and par opportunities, but the pace was just off. It’s all about adjusting for the final round.”
“The key was staying composed,” added the 29-year-old Filipino-German, who had taken control with opening rounds of 64 and 67.
Cracks started to show in his game on the challenging back nine—a double bogey on the 11th after a bogey-two-birdie exchange through the first 10 holes and another dropped stroke on the 15th saw his lead shrink.
Jahns rebounded with birdies on the parfive 16th and 17th holes to close with a 35-36 round for an 11-under 202 in the seventh leg of the 10-stage circuit organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc. Garalde, meanwhile, remained consistent under challenging conditions on a course he knows well and carded an impressive 68.
Matching Jahns’ strong finish with birdies on Nos. 16 and 18, he climbed within two strokes of the lead at 204 after earlier rounds of 67 and 69.
Rupert Zaragosa and Sean Ramos were also in contention with solid 66s to sit at 205 and 207, respectively.
Zaragosa, last year’s Iloilo leg champion, and Ramos, the recent Lakewood Championship winner, remained in hot pursuit of the
P360,000 top prize.
“I’m focused, taking it one shot at a time and not forcing anything,” said Jahns, who’s only 18 holes away from erasing a series of near-misses in pursuit of his first PGT trophy.
Japan’s Ozeki Kakeru carded a 67 for fifth at 208, while South Korea’s Minwook Gwon joined Philippine Masters champion Angelo Que (70) and Enrico Gallardo (73) at 209 after a 68.
Dino Villanueva turned in a 69 to lead the group at 210, which included Dutchman Guido van der Valk (70) and veteran Tony Lascuña (71).
While many contenders leaned on power and putting, Garalde’s nearflawless short game helped him stay within striking distance.
“My short game really saved me today. I had a lot of one-pitch, one-putt situations despite missing the greens,” said Garalde, who is eyeing his first victory after coming back from injury.
“There’s definitely pressure, but that’s part of the game. You have to embrace it,” Garalde said. “I’ll treat the final round like a practice round with friends – just hit fairways and greens, and accept whatever comes.”
Zaragosa, on the other hand, attributed his success so far to his excellent ball-striking.
“That’s the key here—ball placement. I’ve been consistent with my shots, which has reduced mistakes,” said Zaragosa, who is seeking to add to his first PGT victory from last year. “I’ve also finally gotten a good read on the greens, which were tough the first two days.”
Despite the pressure, Zaragosa plans to stick to his game plan. “I’ll just focus on enjoying the round and not force anything.”
Ramos, meanwhile, hopes to replicate his flawless third round, saying, “Everything was solid, from driving to putting, and I had no bogeys, which is always good. I even sank a few long par putts, which helped.”
PBA Press Corps to honor Jaworski with Lifetime Achievement Award
Pagdanganan joint 12th behind Buhai in Kroger Queen City tournament in Ohio
AINEVILLE , Ohio—Bianca
MPagdanganan fired a fourunder 68 for a share of 12th spot Thursday in the first round of the Championship. The 26-year-old Filipina two-time Olympian hit five birdies, suffering her lone bogey on the par-3 No. 12, and was in a big group that included Sei Young Kim.
Dottie Ardina, who also saw action for the Philippines in the London Olympics, shot a 75 and was joint 121st. Nelly Korda had a tough time getting out of bed Thursday morning. Any Solheim Cup fatigue had no bearing on her standard of golf, a bogey-free 67 at TPC River’s Bend that left her two shots behind Ashleigh Buhai.
Korda and Leona Maguire, who also had a 5-under 67, are among 11 players who competed in the Solheim Cup last week and got right back to work.
Buhai, a former Women’s British Open champion from South Africa, isn’t part of the Solheim Cup and had a few weeks to rest from an injury-plagued season. She ran off eight birdies for her 7-under 65, giving her a one-shot lead
By Josef Ramos
WO-TIME Asian youth champions Angeline Colonia and Lovely Inan grabbed two gold medals each at the start of the International Weightlifting Federation World Junior Championships on Thursday at the Palacio de Congreso in Leon, Spain. Colonia, 18, lifted 74 kgs in the snatch for her first gold, placed second in the clean and jerk with 88
over Jeeno Thitikul and Yan Liu.
“Just shows that rest is just as important,” Buhai said. “I know if I give myself five days to warm up, with my coach coming in, we did good work, and, yeah, it was nice to actually just see it pay off today.” Korda at least had the afternoon for nap time after her early start. She went 3-1 in her matches last week in the Solheim Cup as the Americans defeated Europe for the first time in seven years.
“I’m looking forward to the stay-inbed-all-day vibe today. It was definitely tough kind of waking up this morning, but I do love competing and I love being out here,” Korda said. “Everyone that played last week is going to be tired. I’m just trying to take it one step at a time, know that my energy levels aren’t the greatest, but I’m still motivated.”
She found additional motivation not so much from her five birdies but keeping a clean card.
“There is just no greater feeling than minimized your mistakes, or making no mistakes,” Korda said. “Whenever you get to play a bogeyfree round I feel like it motivates you, and hopefully I can take that energy into the next three days.” Maguire only played two matches last week, having played all five matches her previous two appearances. She wasn’t pleased about being sat out, especially after she easily disposed of Ally Ewing (4 and 3) in singles.
KEANU JAHNS says he struggled with the slow greens and needed time to adjust.
PAGDANGANAN
YUNJU AN displays remarkable composure and skill that left her fellow competitors and spectators in awe.
EANU
Hezbollah vows continued strikes on Israel despite sabotage of communication devices
By Kareem Chehayeb & Bassem Mroue The Associated Press
BEIRUT—The leader of Hezbollah vowed Thursday to keep up daily strikes on Israel despite this week’s deadly sabotage of its members’ communication devices, and said Israelis displaced from homes near the Lebanon border because of the fighting would not be able to return until the war in Gaza ends.
Hezbollah and Israel launched fresh attacks across the border as Hassan Nasrallah spoke for the first time since the mass bombing of devices in Lebanon and Syria that he described as a “severe blow”—and for which he promised to retaliate.
The two days of attacks targeting thousands of Hezbollah pagers and walkie-talkies have been widely blamed on Israel, heightening fears that 11 months of neardaily exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel will escalate into all-out war. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement in the attacks.
During Nasrallah’s speech, Hezbollah struck at least four times in northern Israel, and two Israeli soldiers were killed in a strike earlier in the day.
Israeli warplanes flew low over Beirut while Nasrallah spoke and broke the sound barrier, scattering birds and prompting people in houses and offices to quickly
open windows to prevent them from shattering.
Israel also launched attacks in southern Lebanon on Thursday, saying it struck hundreds of rocket launchers and other Hezbollah infrastructure, though it was not immediately clear if there were any casualties. The army claimed the launchers were about to be used “in the immediate future.”
At the same time, the army ordered residents in parts of the Golan Heights and northern Israel to avoid public gatherings, minimize movements and stay close to shelters in anticipation of possible rocket fire.
In recent weeks, Israeli leaders have stepped-up warnings of a potential larger military operation against Hezbollah, saying they are determined to stop the group’s fire to allow tens of thousands of Israelis to return to homes near the border.
In a Thursday briefing, the Israeli defense minister said Hez -
Mexico president blames US for surge in cartel violence, 30 dead in Sinaloa
By Eduardo Verdugo The Associated Press
ULIACAN, Mexico—Mexican President
CAndrés Manuel López Obrador blamed the United States in part on Thursday for the surge in cartel violence terrorizing the northern state of Sinaloa, which has left at least 30 people dead in the past week. Two warring factions of the Sinaloa cartel have clashed in the state capital of Culiacan in what appears to be a fight for power since two of its leaders were arrested in the United States in late July. Teams of gunmen have shot at each other and the security forces. Meanwhile, dead bodies continued to pop up around the city. On one busy street corner, cars drove by pools of the blood leading to a body in a car mechanic shop, while heavily armed police in black masks loaded up another body stretched out on a side street of the Sinaloan city.
Asked at his morning briefing if the US government was “jointly responsible” for this violence in Sinaloa, the president said, “Yes, of course ... for having carried out this operation.”
The recent surge in cartel warfare had been expected after Joaquín Guzmán López, a son of former Sinaloa cartel leader Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, landed near El Paso, Texas on July 25 in a small plane with Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada.
Zambada was the cartel’s elder figure and reclusive leader. After his arrest, he said in a letter circulated by his lawyer that he had been abducted by the younger Guzmán and taken to the US against his will.
bollah would “pay an increasing price” as Israel seeks to make conditions near its border with Lebanon safe enough for residents to return.
“The sequence of our military actions will continue,” he said.
The attack on electronic devices appeared to be the culmination of a monthslong operation by Israel to target as many Hezbollah members as possible all at once—but civilians were also hit. At least 37 people were killed, including two children, and some 3,000 wounded in the explosions Tuesday and Wednesday.
Nasrallah said the group is investigating how the bombings were carried out.
“Yes, we were subjected to a huge and severe blow,” he said. “The enemy crossed all boundaries and red lines,” he said. Pointing to the number of pagers and walkie-talkies, he accused Israel of intending to kill thousands of people at one time. “The enemy will face a severe and fair punishment from where they expect and don’t expect.”
He said Hezbollah will continue its barrages into northern Israel as long as the war in Gaza continues, vowing that Israel will not be able to bring its people back to the border region. “The only way is stop the aggression on the people of Gaza and the West Bank,” he said. “Neither strikes, nor assassinations nor an all-out war will achieve that.”
Earlier Thursday, Hezbollah said it had targeted three Israeli military positions near the border, two of them with drones. Israeli hospitals reported eight people lightly or moderately injured.
Hezbollah says its near daily fire is a show of support for Hamas. Israel’s 11-month-old war with Hamas in Gaza began after its militants led the October 7 attack on Israel.
Israel has responded to Hezbollah’s attacks with strikes in southern Lebanon, and has struck senior figures from the group in the capital Beirut. The exchanges have killed hundreds in Lebanon and dozens in Israel and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents on each side of the border.
Israel and Hezbollah have repeatedly pulled back from an all-out war under heavy pressure from the United States, France and other countries.
But in their recent warnings, Israeli leaders have said they are determined to change the status quo dramatically.
Speaking to Israeli troops on Wednesday, Gallant said, “We are at the start of a new phase in the
war—it requires courage, determination and perseverance.” He made no mention of the exploding devices but praised the work of Israel’s army and security agencies, saying “the results are very impressive.”
He said that after months of fighting Hamas in Gaza, “the center of gravity is shifting to the north by diverting resources and forces.”
Israel began moving more troops to its border with Lebanon on Wednesday as a precautionary measure, Israeli officials said. Israel’s army chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, said plans have been drawn up for additional action against Hezbollah, though media reported the government has not yet decided whether to launch a major offensive in Lebanon.
Lebanon is still reeling from the deadly device attacks of Tuesday and Wednesday.
The explosions have rattled anxious Lebanese fearing a full-
scale war. The Lebanese Army said it has been locating and detonating suspicious pagers and communication devices, while the country’s civil aviation authorities banned pagers and walkie-talkies on all airplanes departing from Beirut’s international airport until further notice.
The attack was likely to severely disrupt Hezbollah’s internal communication as it scrambles to determine safe means to talk to each other. Hezbollah announced the death of five combatants Thursday, but didn’t specify if they were killed in the explosions or on the front lines.
The blasts went off wherever the holders of the pagers or walkietalkies happened to be in multiple parts of Beirut and eastern and southern Lebanon—in homes and cars, grocery stores and cafes and on the street, even at a funeral for some killed in the bombings, often with family and other bystanders nearby.
Many suffered gaping wounds on their legs, abdomens and faces or were maimed in the hand. Tuesday’s pager blasts killed 12 people, including two children, and wounded some 2,300 others. The following day’s explosion killed 25 and wounded more than 600, Health Minister Firas Abiad said, giving updated figures. Abiad told reporters that Wednesday’s injuries were more severe than the previous day as walkie-talkies that exploded were bigger than the pagers. He praised Lebanon’s hospitals, saying they had managed to deal with the flood of wounded within hours.
“It was an indiscriminate attack. It was a war crime,” he said.
APHR: 5 democracy activists face execution in Myanmar, sparking international outrage
J“Where is the security for our children, for ourselves too, for all citizens? It’s so dangerous here, you don’t want to go outside,” one Culiacan mother told the Associated Press.
The mother, who didn’t want to share her name out of fear of the cartels, said that while some schools have recently reopened, she hasn’t allowed her daughter to go for two weeks. She said she was scared to do so after armed men stopped a taxi they were traveling in on their way home, terrifying her child.
During his morning news briefing, López Obrador had claimed American authorities “carried out that operation” to capture Zambada and that “it was totally illegal, and agents from the Department of Justice were waiting for Mr. Mayo.”
“If we are now facing instability and clashes in Sinaloa, it is because they (the American government) made that decision,” he said.
He added that there “cannot be a cooperative relationship if they take unilateral decisions” like this. Mexican prosecutors have said they were considering bringing treason charges against those involved in the plan to nab Zambada.
He was echoed by President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, who said later in the day that “we can never accept that there is no communication or collaboration.”
It’s the latest escalation of tensions in the US-Mexico relationship. Last month, the Mexican president said he was putting relations with the US and Canadian embassies “on pause” after ambassadors criticized his controversial plan to overhaul Mexico’s judiciary by requiring all judges to stand for election.
Still, the Zambada capture has fueled criticisms of López Obrador, who has throughout his administration refused to confront cartels in a strategy he refers to as “hugs not bullets.”
On previous occasions, he falsely stated that cartels respect Mexican citizens and largely fight amongst themselves.
On Thursday afternoon, another military operation covered the north of Culiacan with military and circling helicopters. Traffic was heavy in Culiacan and most schools were open, even though parents were still not sending their children to classes. Businesses continue to close early and few people venture out after dark. While the city has slowly reopened and soldiers patrol the streets, many families continue to hide away, with parents and teachers fearing they’ll be caught in the crossfire.
AKARTA —The Asean Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR) has expressed grave concern after being informed by a credible source that five democracy activists are slated for execution on September 24, 2024.
The APHR identified them as Zaryaw Phyo (32), San Min Aung (24), Kyaw Win Soe (33), Kaung Pyae Sone Oo (27) and Myat Phyo Pwint who were sentenced to death on May 18, 2023 in a closed-door hearing at the Yangon’s Insein Prison for their alleged involvement in a deadly shooting on a train in Yangon in 2021. They were charged with murder and illegal weapons under several statutes, including the 1949 Arms Act and a 2014 Counterterrorism Law.
APHR urgently demands that the State Administration Council (SAC) refrain from this arbitrary execution and immediately release them unconditionally.
“We call upon the SAC to immediately release them and ensure that, pending their release, the detention conditions comply with international standards, including access to legal representation, medical care, and contact with their family,” said Mercy Chriesty Barends, APHR chairperson and member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives.
“The use of capital punishment as a tool to suppress dissent is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” said Wong Chen, APHR Board Member and Malaysia Member of Parliament.
Local media have reported that their sentences were given by the civilian judiciary rather than a military court since the coup. Their execution will take place later this month. APHR is alarmed by the use of the death penalty and how these trials were conducted. These actions represent a grievous infringement of human rights and a blatant disregard for international legal standards.
“It is particularly disconcerting that this marks the first instance of the civilian judiciary, rather than a military tribunal, issuing death sentences since the coup, signaling a
disturbing shift in the judicial proceedings in Myanmar,” said Kasit Piromya, APHR Board Member and former member of Thailand’s parliament.
Over a hundred post-coup prisoners are currently on death row, and the Junta military regime has sentenced another 42 people to death in absentia, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP).
“These executions show a significant setback and the absence of political will
from the SAC to implement the Asean FivePoint Consensus meaningfully,” said Arlene D. Brosas, APHR Board Member and member of the Philippines’ House of Representatives. She further said, “APHR calls on the SAC to immediately cease all acts of violence, free all political prisoners and those arbitrarily detained and return the democratization process back to the country”.
APHR remains committed to advocating for the rights of those unjustly detained and will continue to monitor the situation closely, offering support and calling for accountability and the restoration of democratic governance in Myanmar. APHR also calls upon the international community to stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar in their struggle for democracy, justice, and human rights.
WOMEN sit in a cemetery as they visit the graves of killed Hezbollah members in the southern suburbs of Beirut on Thursday, September 19, 2024. AP/HUSSEIN MALLA
MERCY Chriesty Barends, APHR chairperson and Indonesian MP.
10. TANG, LINLIN
Brief
or related field, fluent in both written and verbal English and Chinese/Mandarin languages.
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
48.
49.
50. WANG, LINA Chinese Travel Coordinator
Brief
51.
52.
Brief
53.
Manager
Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Project Manager will be a strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long-term goals.
54. LI, JIANJUN Mandarin Safety Director
Brief
Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Project Manager, and excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.
Salary Range:
Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Safety Director, and excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
FLYING FUTURE SERVICES INC. 21/f Yuchengco Tower 1 Rcbc Plaza, 6819 Ayala Ave, Bel-air, City Of Makati
55. NG SEK YEE Mandarin Operations Specialist
Brief Job Description: Grow company by developing new products.
GENPACT SERVICES LLC 5f Genpact Bldg., Cyberzone Northgate, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa
56. SHARMA, MANISH Service Delivery Leader, Healthcare Operations
Brief Job Description: Be a senior partner concern point for resolving customer and internal issues.
Basic Qualification: Able to speak in Mandarin language.
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
Basic Qualification: Graduate from a reputable university.
77.
Brief
87. ZHANG, MEICEN Mandarin Team Leader
Brief
88. SEKI, YUSUKE Bilingual Customer Service Representative
Brief Job Description: Maintains customer records by updating account information.
89. YANG, YUFENG Mandarin Marketing Specialist
Brief Job Description: Organize promotions and events for company clients.
PARAÑAQUE ONLINE PALENGKE INC.
305 Mtf Building, Dr. A Santos Ave., San Isidro, City Of Parañaque
90. WANG, YOURAN Business Development Supervisor
Brief Job Description: Supervise and mentor business development team members.
91. KORI, VIKRAM RAMASARE Marketing Specialist
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92. OKOYE, ONYEDIKA Trading Coordinator
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Qualification:
PHILIPPINE FULL DEGREE COMMUNICATIONS CORP. 18/f Yuchengco Tower 1, Rcbc Plaza, 6819 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati
93. LI, SITTING Mandarin Customer Service
Brief Job Description: Maintains customer records by updating account info.
PMFTC INC. Plant C & D, Champaca Ii, Fortune, City Of Marikina
94. IVANOV, EVGENII Director Smoke-Free Products
Qualification: Able to speak in Mandarin language.
Brief Job Description: Be the custodian of the consumer experience, designing and continuously improving the consumer journeys across all touchpoints and channels, for the entire consumer lifestyle. Basic Qualification: At least 5 plus years leading omni-channel marketing departments (offline/ online).
Range: Php
and above
REGENT CONSTRUCTION INTERNATIONAL INC. 27th Floor High Street South Corporate Tower 2, 26th Street Corner 9th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig
95. LEE MENG KONG Executive Vice President
Brief Job Description: Responsible in evaluating the success of the organization.
RUNTO TECHNOLOGY INC. Unit 2601, And 2602 26th Floor
96. ZHANG, YANRU Sales Consultant
