BusinessMirror August 25, 2023

THE Commission on Audit (COA) is open to amending a 2015 joint circular governing the use and auditing of confidential and intelligence funds (CIF).

At the hearing for COA’s P13.3billion budget for 2024, Commission on Audit Chairman Gamaliel Cordoba said concerned agencies that created the Joint Circular 2015-01, or the guideline on the entitlement, release, use, reporting, and audit of confidential and intelligence funds, will convene to review the circular.

“Your suggestion is good because of the increasing confidential and intelligence funds. We will try to convene the agencies who promulgated [this circular]

because 2015 has been quite a long time. That’s eight years,” said Cordoba on the queries of Kabataan party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel.

"Within the third quarter of this year, we will call a meeting with other stakeholders. We will try to finish [the review] within the year, and we will update the appropriation committee and Congress about the changes," he added.

The joint circular was issued on January 8, 2015, by the COA, Department of Budget and Management, Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Governance Commission for Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations, and the Department of National Defense.

The circular refers to confidential expenses as those expenses pertaining to or related to surveillance activities in civilian government agencies that are intended to support the mandate or operations of the agency.

It defines the intelligence fund as the lump sum amount provided as such in the general appropriations for the national government agencies.

Earlier, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) assured taxpayers that the allocation for CIF in the 2024 proposed budget will be covered by circulars and will be properly accounted for.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said the joint circular identifies the projects and

programs that can be funded using CIF, pointing out a section of the joint circular detailing the disbursement procedures for the funds.

According to the budget chief, there is a P120-million increase in the confidential and intelligence funds, with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Anti-Money Laundering Council, and Presidential Security Group (PSG) receiving additional allocations.

The biggest allocations that drew attention, however, are those for the Office of the President and the Office of Vice President and education secretary.

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

as much as a quarter of a billion dollars for the remainder of the current administration in developing a solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing industry in the Philippines could add nearly P10 billion to the country’s GDP by 2030, according to the Asian Development

Based on its new report titled, “Renewable Energy Manufacturing: Opportunities for Southeast Asia,” ADB said the Philippines needs to invest $150 million to $250 million in the next 3 to 5 years to develop a solar PV manufacturing industry. This would lead to an addition to GDP of $100 million to $175 million or around P5.6 billion to P9.8 billion by 2030. This is based on an exchange rate of P56 to the dollar.

“As we often say in ADB, the battle against climate change will be won or lost in Asia and the Pacific.

A decisive front in that battle is Southeast Asia,” said ADB Sectors Group Director General and Group Chief Ramesh Subramaniam.

“This research shows the promise of renewable energy manufacturing—with policy, technical, and financing support—in helping the region's developing countries to transition away from coal-based energy, while lowering carbon emissions, expanding local industrial capabilities, spurring job creation, and driving long-term economic growth,” he added.

FILIPINOS can look forward to a more sustainable and inclusive

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on its 30th anniversary as it embarks on efforts to adopt global central banking standards and transition to a digital financial system that is accessible to all nationwide.

BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said the pandemic has shaped the perspective and monetary authorities.

This has made him more optimistic that the country is ready for a better digitized financial landscape.

This is especially true with the increased use of digital payments in the country over the last five years. The share in terms of volume of digital payments over total retail payments significantly increased

to 42.1 percent from 30.3 percent in 2021.

“While the technical nature of our work requires managing a delicate balance between inflation and growth, we also acknowledge our role in helping Filipinos access banking services, increase their financial literacy, and protect themselves from fraud and cybersecurity threats,” Remolona said.

“We consider these facets of central banking critical to inclusive and sustainable economic growth—where individuals in far-flung areas in the provinces are offered the same financial services as those living in Metro Manila or in any urbanized city,” he added.

Solons, BOC check out rice warehouses

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

THE House of Representatives will study the amendments to the Rice Tariffication Law (Republic Act No. 11203), which created the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), so that the government can use collected unappropriated funds and tariffs as cash assistance for farmers and import subsidies, according to Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez.

“We will study all means possible of oversight; we will use RCEP to help our farmers. Maybe we can use part of the fund, so we can subsidize the importation to bring down the price, either directly or indirectly,” he said on Thursday.

Under the Rice Tariffication Law, the RCEF allocates P10 billion to four component programs: mechanization (P5 billion), seeds (P3 billion), extension (P1 bil -

lion), and credit (P1 billion).

Amid allegations that hoarders are driving up the cost of rice in the market, Romualdez on Thursday led a team from the House of Representatives on a fact-finding mission and inspected large rice warehouses in Bulacan, where they concluded that rice hoarding has been happening.

“We will explore all the means that we can use here; that's why we are here. We are talking to everyone so that we can work together here and bring it out. We have the supply, right?” added Romualdez.

According to Romualdez, the chamber will also study the amendments to the Price Act to strengthen consumer protection by stabilizing the prices of basic necessities and prime commodities.

“We will also study the [Price Act]. That is one of our ways to lower the price [of rice],” he said.

passion, exemplified by the photo above capturing Filipino boys playing basketball in floodwaters. top photo shows Yuko Mitsuya, chairman of the japan basketball association, Samahang basketbol ng Pilipinas chairman Emeritus Manuel V. Pangilinan and President of Indonesia’s nOc Erick thohir posing with the naismith trophy, the FIba basketball World cup trophy, after the host announcement ceremony for the FIba basketball World cup in 2023, at the FIba s headquarters in Mies, Switzerland, December 9, 2017. FIBA stories in B8 Sports. AP/AARON FAVILA & LAURENT GILLIERON/KEYSTONE VIA AP

INVESTING

Bank (ADB).

House Deputy Minority Leader and ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro said the largest CIF is under the OP with P4.56 billion.

She added that the Office of the Vice President is again proposing P500 million in confidential funds, and the DepEd is asking for another P150 million in confidential funds, all under the control and discretion of Vice President Sara Duterte.

But looking closely, Pangandaman said that the percent share of funds in the entire budget of the national government is actually declining.

In 2018, Pangandaman said, the CIF share in the total national budget was 0.215 percent; 0.192 percent in 2019; 0.235 percent in 2020; 0.212 percent in 2021; 0.183 percent in 2022; 0.190 percent in 2023; and 0.176 percent in the 2024 budget proposal.

Still, House Deputy Minority Leader Castro said the Marcos administration has increased CIF from P10.022 billion this year to P10.142 billion, or almost P120 million more next year.

Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

WFH seen to stay, to ease impact of traffic gridlocks

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

SEN. Joel Villanueva, chief author of the telecommuting law, sees the “Work-fromHome” option as the key to unlock worsening daily traffic gridlocks in metropolitan areas.

“When we authored and sponsored the Telecommuting or the Work-fromHome Law in 2019, our intention was to address the worsening traffic situation, especially in the metropolitan areas, Villanueva said on Thursday.

The senator added, however, that “when the Covid-19 pandemic hit the whole world, we saw the full implementation of the law and how productivity was not halted because of the alternative working arrangements provided.”

Continued from A1

The BSP has been active in promoting green and sustainable policies in the financial system. By nurturing a regulatory

In fact, Villanueva recalled that ecommerce and digital transactions grew by 20 percent from 2021 to 2022, “even while most people are still working from home.”

The senator noted, however, that “the pandemic may be over but our traffic situation has gotten more intolerable.”

Citing a 2018 Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) study, he noted that the Philippines lost P3.5 billion a day due to the heavy traffic in Metro Manila.

environment conducive to sustainable and inclusive growth, the central bank safeguards the country’s transition into the post-pandemic, digital economy.

As the BSP’s digitization efforts advance, Filipinos in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, as well as those working across

It recalled that in December 2022, in a project report for the Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan, Jica had noted that “transportation costs of road users, comprising vehicle operating cost and travel time cost, is now at P4.9 billion per day in Metro Manila, which will increase to P9.4 billion a day by 2027 if nothing is done.”

While inflation has slowed down to 4.7 percent in July 2023 from 5.4 percent in June 2023, the average inflation rate from January to July 2023 is still at 6.8 percent, Villanueva said, noting this “still puts financial constraints on our commuters, especially our minimum wage earners receiving a salary of P610 per day in the National Capital Region.”

the globe, can expect sustained economic growth and sustainability, marking a new era of digital transformation for the nation, he said.

“The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is a globally renowned institution that is adaptive to new technologies and progressive in its approach to policy. We are considered innovators among central banks in the world. Our flagship programs are proof that we have gone above and beyond the mandate in a bid to be of service to the Filipinos,” Remolona said.

Some of these measures include the polymerization of banknotes which provide Filipinos with smarter, cleaner, and stronger bills that are more resistant to counterfeiting, more hygienic and sanitary, and longerlasting than paper banknotes.

The list also includes the Paleng-QR Ph Plus Program which promotes the use and acceptance of digital payments in local markets, public transportation, and other establishments as well

Solons…

Continued from A1

Upon invitation from Bureau of Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio and, as part of the exercise of the oversight powers of Congress, Romualdez joined in inspecting the FS Rice Mill, San Pedro Warehouse, and Great Harvest Rice Meal Warehouse located in the boundaries of Bocaue and Balagtas towns in Bulacan.

The Speaker said that some rice traders have been exploiting the international price adjustments to jack up rice prices in the local market. "We need to know if there is truly some basis to accusations that hoarders are responsible for the spike in rice prices in the market. Inspections such as these send a powerful signal to all the hoarders and manipulators out there to stop burdening the Filipino people for profit,” Romualdez said.

“Aside from our oversight functions under the law, we are also doing this in aid of legislation, as we have pending measures in the House of Representatives that seek to penalize the act of hoarding rice and other basic agricultural necessities,” Romualdez said.

Accompanying the Speaker were Reps. Erwin Tulfo, Edvic

Moreover, he said, the WFH Law was also instrumental for the IT-BPO sector wherein 23,000 new jobs were created in 2020 and 100,000 in 2021, with revenues increasing by around 12 percent in 2021, reaching a total of $28.8 billion.

“We filed Senate Bill No. 135 which seeks to allow alternative work arrangements for companies registered with the Investment Promotion Agencies.”

Undoubtedly, said the senator, Work From Home and other alternative work setups are here to stay and will further improve productivity, ease traffic burden, improve work-life balance, reduce workers’ expenses and contribute to the overall health of the economy.

as the Coin Deposit Machine (CoDM) Project, which encourages the public to deposit their idle coins in the CoDMs and convert them into ewallet credits or shopping vouchers.

The BSP also has a CheckProtect-Report (CPR) campaign which aims to protect financial consumers from online scams and other fraudulent activities while the Financial Education Stakeholders Expo fosters multi-sectoral collaborations for financial education programs in the country.

The central bank also has the Open Finance PH Pilot which establishes an open finance system in the country and the Regulatory Sandbox Framework which formalizes the Test and Learn (T&L) approach that allows BSP-Supervised Financial Institutions (BSFIs), third-party service providers of BSFIs, and new players to offer financial products and services using new technology to a limited number of customers in a controlled environment. Cai U. Ordinario

Yap, and Wilfrido Mark Enverga, the chair of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food. They were joined by officials and employees of the BOC.

“Rice hoarding is economic sabotage in its highest degree. It not only destabilizes prices in the market through arbitrary manipulation, but it also adversely affects the ability of Filipino families to cope with day-to-day living. And for that, hoarders should apply the full force of the law,” Enverga said.

“And this is in support of President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Romualdez Marcos Jr.’s efforts in alleviating the plight of Filipino families now reeling from the high cost of rice. We want our citizens to know that their government is doing something to bring down the price of rice,” Tulfo, for his part, said.

For the past few weeks, the price of rice has been steadily rising, with retailers selling it at P50 to P62 per kilogram in Metro Manila.

During the fact-finding mission, the BOC, armed with letters of authority, barred the owners of the Great Harvest Rice Mill Warehouse, the San Pedro Warehouse, and the FS Rice Mill from retrieving the goods pending submission of the required documents on their rice importation.

The Speaker is set to inspect more rice warehouses.

Based on ADB estimates, the increase in GDP includes both direct and indirect impacts. Direct impact would be from the construction, equipment purchase and operations.

Indirect impact will be from supply chains, with potential impact rising the more localized the supply chain is; induced impact happens when there is increased spending driven by income changes of employees in the value chain.

The $100 million to $175 million that is projected to be added to GDP includes $65 million to $115 million direct impact. The amount, ADB said, includes $23 million to $43 million indirect impact while $13 million to $20 million are considered "induced."

Developing a solar PV manufacturing industry will also create 8,000 to 12,000 new jobs. Of these, 4,000 to 7,000 jobs are direct impacts to the creation of the manufacturing industry.

ADB also said 3,000 jobs will come from indirect effects and 1,000 to 2,000 jobs are considered induced impact.

The ADB also projected $100 million to $140 million in annual cost savings from operational improvements.

"Scaling solar PV manufacturing has the potential to create significant economic and social value for the region. Investment in a manufacturing industry adds to its gross domestic product (GDP) and creates jobs during both its construction phase (i.e., facility development and expansion) and operation phase," ADB said.

Climate impact on GDP

In a statement, ADB said Southeast Asia could lose up to 30 percent of its gross domestic product by 2050 due to increases in global temperature and extreme weather events.

However, bolstering the region’s renewable energy manufacturing capacity would position Southeast Asian countries to create new jobs and meet growing energy demand while drastically reducing emissions.

ADB said growing Southeast Asia’s solar PV cells, battery, and electric two-wheeler industries presents an estimated $90-billion to $100- billion revenue opportunity by 2030, with a potential 6 million renewable energy jobs to be created by 2050.

“The clean energy industry is already a massive growth opportunity, and will need to scale even more rapidly for us to achieve carbon neutrality globally by 2050. Southeast Asia, which is home to one-fourth of the world's population, is well positioned to become a global leader in renewable energy manufacturing with its vibrant business environment and large talent pool,” said ClimateWorks Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Helen Mountford.

“In doing so, the region can boost the supply of affordable and reliable renewable energy solutions to people and communities in Southeast Asia and around the world, and create new job opportunities locally," Mountford said.

The report also identified potential ambitions and outcomes for Southeast Asia to achieve the growth of solar PV manufacturing capacity in modules from 70 gigawatts (GW) to 125–150 GW by 2030.

This will also help develop a regional battery manufacturing value chain, increasing national and regional demand, and establish Southeast Asia as a regional and global export hub, producing 140–180 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery cells by 2030.

ADB also said these efforts will expand assembly capacity for electric two-wheelers (E2W) in Southeast Asia from 1.4 to 1.6 million units annually to approximately 4 million units by 2030.

The report also highlighted how Southeast Asia can build on its strong history of regional collaboration to enhance the competitiveness of its renewable energy industries and meet its net-zero targets.

For example, ADB said production factors could benefit from trade across the value chain and regional efforts to improve workforce quality and distribution.

Demand markets could be supported by the buildout of the Asean Power Grid to enable higher renewables deployment through multilateral power trade and expanded grid balancing areas.

Harmonization of technical standards for E2W vehicles and charging stations could enable original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to develop products that suit needs across Southeast Asian markets.

“Southeast Asia has the potential to become a leader in renewable energy manufacturing to contribute to the global renewable energy deployment, while simultaneously achieving economic growth and mitigating the impacts of climate change,” said Bloomberg Philanthropies Environment Program Head Antha Williams.

“This report proves how increasing private sector investments into local renewable energy manufacturing sectors, strengthening regional value chain collaboration, and bringing together key stakeholders will create jobs, increase GDP, and help Southeast Asian nations meet their climate goals," she said.

The research was released Thursday on the sidelines of the Asean Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Bloomberg Philanthropies, ClimateWorks Foundation, and Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL).

Vibrant Kadayawan Eats: Here’s How You Can Eat Like A Local At SM City Davao & SM Lanang!

We’re totally here for the food and vibes! #VibrantKadayawanAtSM

POV: You are in the King City of the South for the 38th Kadayawan sa Davao. After celebrating with the locals and joining the #VibrantKadayawan festivities, you are hungry and searching for a good place to eat. And where are the best places to dine? At SM City Davao and SM Lanang! Whether it’s your first time visiting the destination or you’ve been here multiple times, there are always new and #AweSM restaurants that are ready to serve you scrumptious dishes. Check them out below:

Seafood Paradise

Ground level, Annex at SM City Davao and 2nd Level, North Wing at SM Lanang

Seafood lovers, rejoice: This ~paradise~ is for you! Prepare for a big feast when you visit Seafood Paradise, a buffet resto that serves fresh-from-the-ocean catches like Tuna Panga in BBQ sauce, scallops, oysters, shrimps, squid, and mussels. You can eat these as is or have them drenched in sauce. They also have palabok, pansit, and seafood paella if you want some carbs. For dessert, you can choose from their buko pandan, mixed fruits, and other sweet treats to cap off your meal. Have we mentioned that you avail of

their unlimited servings for only P499? What.

a. Steal!

The Green Bounty Kitchen 2nd Level, Annex Bldg., SM City Davao

Who can say no to delicious food that’s also healthy? At The Green Bounty Kitchen, you can eat sans the guilt since everything is made with locally-sourced and organic ingredients. They have straight-from-thefarm meals that you can expect to be fresh and flavorful, like their Grilled Chicken Salad, Chicken Wrap, Shrimp Veggie Quesadilla, and Mexican Beef Quesadilla. There are vegan options, too, including the Vegan Lechon Kawali that tastes like the *real* thing! Our favorite part about The Green Bounty Kitchen aside from their wholesome spread? It’s a petfriendly resto so you can channel your inner paw parent and bring your fur babies. Yay!

The Burp Co. 2nd Level, Main Mall, SM City Davao

The perfect way to end a hearty meal is with dessert…and a burp! You can only find The Burp Co. in Davao, so visiting this quaint café is *important* during your visit.

Choose from their bestsellers like Buko Pie, Durian Pie, Cheesecake Pie, and Choco Moist Cake which use premium ingredients and are baked fresh daily. Another must-try at The Burp Co. is their Knickerbocker—think of it as our local halo-halo but made better with fresh fruits instead of preserves! Aside from their luscious pastries, you’ll love the owner’s humble beginnings that started in her garage at home: Catherine Maxey used to be an I.T. professional in Singapore before she decided to bake pies and sell them within their neighborhood. This passion project earned her a lot of loyal customers and soon enough, she set up a physical store that continues to grow.

Tagoro’s Abuhan

2nd Level, Annex Bldg., SM City Davao

After an all-day road trip in the King City of the South, the next best thing to do is head over to an eatery that offers local eats and that’s at Tagoro’s Abuhan! To start off your meal, order the Pork Pizza or the Rambolito ni Tagor—an appetizer that consists of 7 onion rings, 7 chicken fillets, and 7 potato wedges which is good for sharing. Get the Pomelo Salad next to ~cleanse~ your palate, and then savor the flavors of their Manok ni Tagor, Tunasal, and Super Lolo as your main course. For something sweet, request the Buko Mix that’s both sweet and refreshing plus it’s super “barato” for its generous serving!

BBQ Nation

2nd Level, Main Mall, SM City Davao

If you’re looking for a one-stop haven for anything grilled, BBQ Nation is definitely the best place to go to. Located at the 2nd level of SM City Davao’s Main Mall, this place offers the meatiest barbecues and the juiciest ‘blackened spare ribs’. Craving for ‘Bagnet of the South’? It only takes one bite of their Bagnet and you’ll find yourself coming back for more! But wait there’s more, their Tuna Kinilaw is one of the freshest tuna dishes you’ll ever taste here in Davao mixed with cucumber, raddish, ginger and a lot of vinegar.

Anniepie

Ground Level,Main Mall SM City Davao & 2nd Level SM Lanang

Treat yourself to something sweet from Anniepie! Experience Kadayawan with these proudly Davao made cinnamon rolls, bar cookies, and cakes that will leave you dreaming for more of their cottony-soft bread and the sublime cinnamon flavor. Visit Anniepie at SM City Davao now!

Purple Yam Homemade Cakes and Pastries

2nd Level, Main Mall, SM City Davao

Purple Yam Homemade Cakes and Pastries serves freshly baked sweets. You won’t be able to find this in Metro Manila so make sure to stop by their takeout counter located at the 2nd level of SM City Davao’s Main Mall too. This dessert brand is also known for its soft and creamy cakes made with real ube. The Round Ube cake costs only P430! For barkada celebrations, we would love for you to try their medium square-sized ube cake (P550). If you plan to stroll around the mall while enjoying their ube goodness in a cup, you may purchase the 12oz Cup priced at P50 only.

VANDA

Park Inn by Radisson Davao, in front of SM Lanang

For those whose accommodation is at Park Inn by Radisson Davao, you’ll be glad to know that they have an all-day dining restaurant that is only a stone’s throw away from SM Lanang. Although the grub may seem familiar to you, VANDA—which is derived from the orchid specie Walingwaling—puts a twist on their local and international cuisines that are both a feast for your eyes and mouth. And just in time for the festival of festivals, VANDA’s Kadayawan Boodle Fight is now back on its menu! Enjoy a slew of starters, main courses, sides, rice, drinks, and desserts for only P3,950 which is already good for 5 to 6 persons. Other Chef’s Recos are Grilled Tanigue Steak, VANDA Salad, and Malagos Ricotta Cheesecake. Our next stop for more great tasting menus is SM Lanang.

Bistro Selera

2nd Level, North Wing, SM Lanang

One local restaurant that deserves your visit is Selera Bistro. Here, you can taste the

unique flavors of Davao on your plate may it be indoors or outdoors. The chef puts a spin on the classic dishes to make sure you treat your taste buds to something delectable— like the Suha Salad, pomelo tossed in locally

Buffalo, and Salted Egg. These *best-tasting* eat-all-you-can wings in Davao come with cheese, garlic mayo, honey mustard, and ranch dips for only P399, and the promo also includes unlimited rice and unlimited drinks. Yup, you’ve read that right! You also can’t miss out on their fall-off-the-bone Baby Back Ribs. If you’re visiting The NYC Uptown for some light snacks, take your pick from their New York-style hotdogs and cheesecakes (we can’t stop thinking about their Chelsea Caramel slice!).

Out of nowhere kitchen

3rd Level, SM Lanang

Out of Nowhere Kitchen offers a wide array of food choices with generous serving and quality ingredients that’s truly worth your money. For starters, order the Korean fried chicken, a Crispy Fried Chicken with special Korean sweet soy sauce drizzled with cheese. From their grilled selections try their Beef Kebab, ground beef mixture of herbs and spiced Persian style with hummus and yogurt sauce. Each dish is infused with a variety of flavors to complete the unique dining experience. Every bite is definitely a feast!

grown herbs with special fish sauce dressing.

Another must-try is Selera’s Bagaybay, a tuna course wrapped in homemade bacon and drizzled with garlic oil, and Bistek Selera which is a grilled beef tenderloin marinated in herbs and spices and topped with battered onions, before being served with bone marrow gravy. There’s also Torch Eggplant, Seafood Durian Curry, and Chopsuey with Fried Noodles. There’s really food for every mood! Wash these all down with their freshly-squeezed juices and fruit shakes.

Tuna Express Kamayan Grills

2nd Level, Skygarden, SM Lanang

Davao is known for its ocean-fresh catches, especially the city’s pride, tuna. At Tuna Express Kamayan Grills, you have to try the Grilled Tuna Belly and Grilled Tuna Panga which have a nice char and are best dipped in soy sauce with calamansi.

Other recos are Sizzling Tuna Sisig, Grilled Scallops, Calamares, Tuna Salpicao, and Tuna Kinilaw that you can eat with Guso or Lato on the side. Not a big fan of seafood? Opt for Tuna Express Kamayan Grills’ Bulalo with Bone marrow instead which is equally savory and filling.

The NYC Uptown

An aesthetic restaurant located at the North Wing of Ground Level, North Wing, SM Lanang

Welcome to New York, it’s been waiting for you! Feel the ~vibes~ of the Big Apple at The NYC Uptown, an aesthetic restaurant located at the North Wing of SM Lanang Premier. The visually-pleasing interiors are nice to look at while you munch on their Unli Chicken Wings with 13 signature flavors, like Hickory BBQ, Lemon Pepper, Garlic Parmesan,

KARE-Kare

SINIGANG Pork Kawali

Roadhouse Cafe

Ground Level, Main Mall, SM City Davao

From its first branch in Bukidnon, Roadhouse Cafe brings in their rustic style and fine dining cuisine to Davao. Take a feast on their premium USDA Rib Eye steaks grown from their local farm and a delectable Seafood Basket- a combination of shrimp, squid, fish fillet, and vegetable will surely please your taste buds when you try some.

For more meaty comfort food, we highly recommend the Kare-Kare, Sinigang Pork Kawali, Steamed Pompano with lime sauce and Musuan Peak Green Salad, to taste the best Davaoeño version of these Filipino foods. At SM City Davao and SM Lanang, the food fare is so good you’ll definitely come back for it! Explore these highly recommended eats and experience #VibrantKadayawanAtSM. Get updates on the celebration + new dining spots when you follow SM Supermalls on Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, and Instagram.

Source: SM Supermalls

SHRIMP Veggie Quesadilla CHICKEN Wrap

BILAO Boodle

BLUEBERRY Cheesecake

DURIAN Pie

Knickerbocker

PORK Pizza Empanada

Bistek Selera

SUHA Salad

SELERA’S Bagaybay

TORCH Eggplant

No cartel? BOC padlocks Bulacan warehouse storing ₧505M worth of imported rice stocks

By Raadee S. Sausa @raadeeboy

AMID the swirling rice cartel issue, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) has found huge bulk of suspected smuggled imported rice from various warehouses in Bulacan on Thursday.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio led the inspection of warehouses of Great Harvest Rice Mill Warehouse, San Pedro Warehouse and FS Rice Mill Warehouse in the province.

DOJ probes

These are located inside the Intercity Industrial Complex in San Juan, Balagtas, Bulacan, and were found to contain about 202,000 sacks of imported rice grains from Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand.

Earlier, the Department of Agriculture (DA) briefed the House agriculture panel about the need to import rice to augment existing stocks in preparation for El Niño—a policy that drew criticisms from some lawmakers who asked why the Philippines would not focus instead on improving domestic production of the staple.

Meanwhile, an official of the Samahang

Industriya ng Agrikultura (Sinag) said it is difficult to prove the existence of a rice cartel in the country.

“It is difficult to say that there is a cartel with the number of players and layers of the rice industry,” Jayson Cainglet, executive director of Sinag said on Thursday.

Earlier, DA Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development Leocadio Sebastian said during the House hearing that “I don’t believe [that] there is a rice cartel [in the country].”

Baring additional details on the operation, Customs chief Rubio said, “I have ordered the

owners of these warehouses to present the necessary documents that will support its rice importation, as well as the amount of rice they have been keeping in these warehouses.”

“Smuggling agricultural products, in particular rice, as this is a staple food in every Filipino home, poses a grave threat to our economy. It creates a ripple effect that impacts the core of our agricultural sector—our farmers,” Rubio pointed out.

For his part, Intelligence Group Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy underscored the role of the BOC to get into the bottom of

hoarding issues that drive up the cost of rice in the market.

“If proven true, hoarding such a huge amount of rice grain will have legal consequences. There is no space in our fight against smuggling and hoarding for these kinds of operations. Together with key agencies, our commitment remains steadfast—it is time to put an end to the crippling impact of smuggling,” he said.

Moreover, Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) Director Verne Enciso said the BOC coordinated with the Philippine National Police in Balagtas, and

the local government of Brgy. San Juan to implement the Letter of Authority (LOA) signed by Rubio.

“Only after the LOA was acknowledged by the warehouse representatives did the team proceed to inspect the storage, where they found hundreds of thousands of sacks of rice grain we suspect to be lacking the necessary importation documents,” he said.

“[In line] with our protocol, the team padlocked and sealed the warehouse temporarily and proceeded with the inventory of the found goods,” Enciso added.

Filipino-Indian family squabble over ₧1B worth of estate property, business interests

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) on Thursday started its probe into the family dispute of a Filipino-Indian family

involving more than P1 billion worth of estate properties and business interests. The DOJ’s preliminary investigation

stemmed from the complaint filed by Amith Prem Chandiramani against his controversial and high-profile brother-businessman Rajiv Chandiramani, their mother Pushpa Chandiramani and five others for multiple counts of falsification of public documents.

In an interview, lawyer Edmundo Magpantay said Rajiv, her mom and the other respondents did not show up during the start of the preliminary investigation but their counsel asked they be given until September 1 to file their counter-affidavit to the complaint.

Magpantay said the case involves the disposition of several properties worth over P1 billion which were left behind by patriarch Prem Chandiramani following his death in 2011.

“There was a deed of sale signed by the father who died in 2011, and it was signed in 2018. The property was sold to another entity then mortgaged to several banks. There are several documents appearing that were falsified and according to my client it was his

brother respondent Rajiv who falsified all the documents because according to the law, the one who used the document is the one considered to be the forger of the document. So that’s why we filed a case against him before the DOJ,” Magpantay said.

In his complaint, which fall under Paragraph 1 of Article 172, in relation to Article 171, of the Revised Penal Code, Amith claimed that the respondents connived with each other and through “deceit and machination” succeeded in depriving him of his inheritance from their father Prem, amounting to billions of pesos in the form of real estate properties and business interests.

Also named as respondents were Janet Cardinal, Maria Anita Turqueza, Rommel Olaybar, Christina Gutierrez and Angelito Manuel.

Amith earlier this year lodged a complaint before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), which was subsequently referred the complaint before the DOJ for preliminary investigation.

The suspects, according to Amith, conspired with one another on various occasions,

in effecting the illegal transfer to Rajiv of several properties that were lawfully willed to him by their father Prem, before he passed away on December 26, 2011.

Amith said he was shocked upon learning about that the illegal transfer and eventual sale of the properties started sometime in 2018 or seven years after his father’s death.

Among the properties that he claimed were illegally taken from him by Rajiv and his cohorts were a prime 1,559-square-meter lot in Cubao, Quezon City with Transfer Certificate of Title No.46459.

H e claimed that by virtue of a Deed of Absolute Sale that was notarized on December 11, 2018, “the abovementioned property was allegedly sold by my [deceased] father for P85.745 million to Royal Brothers Realty & Development which was owned by Rajiv.”

Using the same falsified documents, Rajiv allegedly succeeded in mortgaging the property while using the name of their dead father to the Land Bank of the Philippines. Amith

revealed that another 660-square-meter property in Cubao, Quezon City was also fraudulently taken from him by Rajiv after “his father allegedly sold it to MyView Philippines Inc. for P32.5 million on November 19,2019.”

In his complaint, Amith pointed out that he was the rightful owner of a 438-square- meter and another 437-square-meter parcels of land both located in Makati City but were also taken from him by his brother Rajiv and were mortgaged for P16 million and P30 million respectively on separate occasions two years ago.

T he Chandiramani brothers are also reportedly embroiled in a legal battle over the ownership of a property in Malibu but his lawyer said the case pending before the DOJ does not cover the said property.

“That is not the subject of the complaint we filed before the DOJ because that property is covered by a different title but that would be part of the estate of the late father, but that is not the subject of the complaint,” Magpantay said. Joel R. San Juan

www.businessmirror.com.ph

FIBA

A BusinessMirror Special Feature

INTERNATIONAL BASKETBALL FEDERATION

Friday, August 25, 2023 C8 A5

Bringing world class basketball to Filipinos

IN a country where basketball is revered and known to be the world’s home of makeshift courts, three Filipino gentlemen who either played hoops or cheered from the courtside, find themselves in the same corporate boardroom many years on strategizing their biggest coup yet: bringing over the world’s biggest basketball event, the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, to the Philippines.

T he idea was a slam dunk for PLDT

Chairman and Samahang Basketbol

ng Pilipinas (SBP) Chairman Emeritus

Manuel V. Pangilinan, PLDT and Smart

Communications President and CEO and

SBP President Alfredo S. Panlilio, and PLDT

Chief Leadership Transition Officer and SBP Vice President Ricky Vargas. It was a longdrawn out battle for global recognition, but their deep love for the sport, and the Philippines, eventually won them out. N o stranger to the sport, Panlilio started playing basketball at a young age until he played for one conference under the Philippine Amateur Basketball League, before taking on top roles in the corporate world. “I firmly believe that sports and corporate life call for the same values and principles -- whether it’s teamwork, excellence, having roles that you must fulfill, making sure that you’re competent,” he said.

M eanwhile, Vargas was a huge fan of a team that competed against PLDT-backed Mobiline at the time. “I was already hired by PLDT, but I would still go to the other team’s games. I still sat on the opposite side. So, guess they had no choice but to involve me in the team because I was cheering for the rival. That’s how I got involved,” he candidly shared.

Influenced by family

FOR Pangilinan, it is no secret that his love for sports was heavily influenced by his family, particularly his mother Soledad. “My mother was an avid fan of the San Beda team. She would watch games with the other mothers, who would prepare food for the team,” he recalled. “ We applied the best business practices to the federation. We fixed the membership, corporatized, put in place sectoral representatives from the youth, the pros, women – all memorialized in the by-laws,” said Pangilinan, founding chairman of SBP. “I recall the final terms of the agreement were done on a table napkin, early morning in a hotel in

Bangkok, where we almost lost our lives because we almost got hit by a car beating a red light. There was a lot of blood, sweat, and tears,” Pangilinan said.

D espite the challenges that Philippine basketball faced in those years, their collective love for the sport and the Philippines won FIBA over. “All of us in that delegation wanted to prove to FIBA that we can fix our house. We can’t fail the Philippines,” he said.

P lacing a bid for a regional event in 2014 whetted SBP’s appetite to try and bid for the 2019 World Cup.

I felt we had a very good presentation. It was just us and China, and I think we really did a good job. We wore the Barong Tagalog with a heart embroidered on it, we had a very

passionate, emotional presentation. In fact, even their Hall of Famer Yao Ming of China already congratulated the Philippines. Unfortunately, we lost the bid,” Panlilio recalled.

Lakas ng loob at bilib sa sarili na kaya namin. We almost made it. We almost made them believe,” said Vargas.

“ We won the soft part, hands down. When we got to the hard part, China offered eight cities, we only offered two; zillions of hotel rooms, airports,” Pangilinan said. “It was heartbreaking, there was a board meeting after that, and they gave me a plaque of appreciation.”

Multi-country hosting

HOWEVER, they did not give up. After a few weeks or months, the Philippine

delegation came up with a multi-country hosting concept. “They told us that it’s a creative approach. The rest is history,” Pangilinan said.

Magic. It was just magic. We did not let go of the dream. Was there a specific formula? No. The team introduced itself to FIBA. FIBA understood our love for basketball,” Vargas said.

W ith the help of the government, along with partners in the private sector, organizations, and the fans, the Philippines is finally co-hosting this momentous event in basketball history. By December 2019, Smart Communications, the wireless unit of PLDT, becomes a global sponsor for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 from August 25 to September 10 in the

Philippines, Indonesia, and Japan. “ It’s a celebration of basketball cherished by Filipinos. However, basketball may be the main event, but it’s us showcasing the Philippines to the world. Filipino basketball fans are very warm, very hospitable, very passionate. But I hope our guests can also see the country’s beauty and potential,” Panlilio shared. We want to leave the impression that they’re welcome to play in the Philippines, and we’ll give them the best experience that they can have. We would like to thank them for coming over and trusting us in co-hosting the whole thing,” Vargas added.

O ften asked why they brought the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 to Philippine shores, Pangilinan listed down many reasons, but emphasized that more than anything, this is a gift to the Filipino people who adore the sport. “What we really wanted to do was to plow more fertile ground for legends to grow – to have our hard courts, our backboards and hoops, our fans bear witness to the story of Philippine basketball as it is written; to emphasize that this basketball-crazy country of ours belongs to the league of basketball nations, and for the Philippines to be a cradle of enduring legends.”

C atch the whole story on Sa Wakas FIBA sa 'Pinas! Premiers on September 2, 2023 on One News (6:30pm), One Sports / One Sports+ (7pm), and One PH (8pm).

To support this endeavor, basketball fans can purchase their FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 tickets for the Philippine Arena and the Smart-Araneta Coliseum games via ticketnet.com.ph, while tickets for the SM Mall of Asia Arena contests are available via smtickets.com.

FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 to showcase

Philippines’ economic and tourism rebound

and resorts across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Aside from boosting tourism and international relations, the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 is also an opportunity for the Philippines to showcase its viability as an investment destination for global businesses. This is aligned with our commitment to support the government in its endeavors to ensure that the country remains an attractive and reliable investment destination. This global event also provides livelihood opportunities for micro, small, medium, and large enterprises in the country, thus helping the growth of our economy,” said Panlilio.

“ We view the FIBA World Cup as an opportunity for the country to reintroduce itself to the world, not only in the aspect of fun and adventure, but more importantly, the strength and diversity of our culture. We recognize how powerful a tool sports and world events such as the FIBA Basketball World

Cup 2023 can help in expressing confidence towards our country, and more importantly, an openness towards travel and tourism,” said Frasco.

Representatives of over 25 countries who are participating in the tournament attended the event, as well as PLDT Chairman

March,

is-

cy task force directing a whole of government approach towards supporting the FIBA World Cup.

We are glad that our President is very eager to support sports tourism in the country and the efforts of MVP, PLDT, Smart, and the SBP to ensure that the FIBA World Cup in the Philippines is a rousing success,” Frasco said.

To entice participants and speculators to explore more of the Philippines when they visit during the events happening from August 25 to September 10, 2023, the Department of Tourism has consolidated a tourism consortium consisting of the Philippine Tour Operators’ Association, the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association, the Pacific Asia Travel Association, and the Tourism Congress of the Philippines to come up with tour packages for international guests “to ensure authentic, immersive, and genuine experience in the Philippines.”

Guests can visit discoverphilippines.travel for tour packages from more than ten of the biggest travel agencies and over 75 hotels

Mr. Crocker also made a presentation on what the FBWC23 was all about and how it is expected to be the biggest global sporting event for 2023. “I encourage all of you to rally your respective countrymen to take advantage of this rare opportunity not only to witness this spectacle in the sport of Basketball but to also enjoy the various world class tourist destinations of the country,” he said.

A s a staunch supporter of sports, PLDT and Smart have been active in sports development -- from grassroots to the national level. The telcos are part of various groups working tirelessly to help nurture athletes, build training grounds, and bring international sporting events closer to Filipinos whether live or online. The MVP Sports Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to this endeavor, has also been supporting 17 national sports agencies to support athletes who represent the Philippines in global tournaments.

To support this endeavor, basketball fans can purchase their FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 tickets for the Philippine Arena and the Smart-Araneta Coliseum games via ticketnet.com.ph, while tickets for the SM Mall of Asia Arena contests are available via smtickets.com.

and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Chairman Emeritus Manuel V. Pangilinan; PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. President and CEO and head of the FIBA local organizing committee Alfredo S. Panlilio; FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 (FBWC23) Executive Di-

rector David Crocker; Foreign Affairs Senior Special Assistant Alex Lamadrid; and PLDT, Smart, SBP and Philippine sports organizations executives. Last

Malacanang

sued Executive Order no. 5, ordering the formation of the interagen-

THE upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 will showcase the Philippines’ robust recovery in terms of economy and tourism. That’s according to Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco during a recent gathering with embassies and consulates in the Philippines organized by PLDT Enterprise.

PLDT Chairman and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Chairman Emeritus Manuel V. Pangilinan

PLDT Chief Leadership Transition Officer and SBP Vice President Ricky Vargas

PLDT and Smart Communications President and CEO and SBP President Alfredo S. Panlilio

22.

Any person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired may file an objection at DOLE National Capital Region located at DOLE-NCR Building, 967 Maligaya St., Malate Manila, within 30 days after this publication.

Please inform DOLE National Capital Region if you have any information on criminal offense committed by the foreign nationals.

NOTICE OF FILING OF APPLICATION/S FOR ALIEN EMPLOYMENT PERMIT/S (AEP/S)

Notice is hereby given that the following companies/employers have filed with this Regional Office application/s for

11 HYS METAL PLASTIC AND ELECTRONICS (PHILIPPINES) INC. Amplefield SME Park, J.P. Rizal Ave., Lima Technology Center, Bugtong Na Pulo, City of Lipa, Batangas

12 KBD PULP MOULD PACKAGING EQUIPMENT AND PRODUCTS PHILIPPINES INC. Bay G And H Springhill, Gen. Malvar Street, Lima Technology Center,

Basic Qualification:

14 KOLON GLOTECH PHILIPPINES INC.

EZP Bldg. 1 & 2, Blk. 3, Lot 1, Daiichi Industrial Park, Maguyam, Silang, Cavite

15 KOLON GLOTECH PHILIPPINES INC.

EZP Bldg. 1 & 2, Blk. 3, Lot 1, Daiichi Industrial Park, Maguyam, Silang, Cavite

necessary or as required by his/her superior and/or the company

KIM, DUK JUNG Head Manager

Brief Job Description: Oversee the day-to-day operations, design strategy and set goals for the company

KIM, HEE GON Technician Manager

Brief Job Description:

Must possess a degree in Administration or higher education. With 10 years and above work experience in manufacturing industry, organizing team roles and evaluation employee performance

Salary Range: Php90,000 - Php149,999

Basic Qualification:

Must possess a degree in Administration or higher education. With 10 years and above work experience in manufacturing industry, organizing team roles and evaluation employee performance

Salary Range:

Php90,000 - Php149,999

possess a degree in Administration or higher education. With 10 years and above work experience in manufacturing industry, organizing team roles and evaluation employee performance

• Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

DOTr chief seeks private sector support for transit-oriented devt infrastructure

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) is asking the private sector for financial support for the successful implementation of transit-oriented development infrastructure.

Among others, the agency said Thursday that it is putting up a walkable, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use areas within the country’s railway systems and other public transport hubs.

“These projects require massive funding. We have turned to the private sector for investment collaboration. On many

occasions, the keen interest displayed by private investors to our projects manifest their financial viability while remaining primarily public service initiatives,” said DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista.

The transport chief explained that by capitalizing on transitoriented development infrastructure, Filipinos would break the cycle of car dependency and patronize public transportation to alleviate traffic in the metropolis and other high-density areas. “We aim to break Filipinos’ dependence on private cars for mobility. We are pushing this multi-sectoral approach to urban

On-site or work-from-home? It’s for customers, workers to decide

By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan

THE IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) said the current “on the ground reality” of the industry workforce points to a gradual return towards working in the office as this has been the demand of global customers.

“I estimate that to be along the range of 70-30. 70 in the office, 30 on hybrid mode,” IBPAP President Jack Madrid said in a televised interview on Wednesday.

According to the IBPAP head, the number is dependent on the “vertical” of the IT and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) sector. This means, he said, it depends on the customers but it also depends on the voice of the employees.

“So we need to strike a balance. But that exact ratio will be different. There is no onesize-fits-all,” Madrid added, as he pointed out that the “dynamics of the economy,” which he said has changed because of the pandemic.

With this, he said, “We are still finding that optimal ratio between the need to work from anywhere as well as the need to return to office.”

But, he added, “I believe that

businesses should be left to run the businesses as they see fit. And they will have to consider the needs of both employees as well as their customers.”

During the pandemic, Madrid highlighted that the industry provided 255,000 additional jobs to Filipinos. He said, “This happened only because we allowed work flexibility.”

But the IBPAP head clarified that heeding the call of employees for a flexible work arrangement does not mean 100 percent work-from-home. Because, he said, “We also need to consider the needs of the customers. At the end of the day, they are paying for the services and I think they have a say in where their services are to be performed.”

In fact, Madrid explained that as the property sector continues to monitor the growth of the ITBPM industry, one trend that the industry is seeing is trying to attract people back to the offices is a “flight to quality.”

“I think this is important, the quality of work space is an important factor for our employees and I think our investors and locators are addressing them. We are seeing a much-improved work environment. We are seeing most open space, more collaborative space, more room for training, and better facilities overall to improve the

DBM allots ₧80.6 billion for BARMM development

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

THE national government (NG) is allocating about P80.6 billion next year for the development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), according to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said the budget allocation is an affirmation of the Marcos administration’s “unwavering pledge” to support the “enduring” peace and development in BARMM.

“We would always say that our Agenda for Prosperity aims for a promising future for the country where no Filipino is left behind. And by all, we mean all Filipinos, including Muslim Filipinos,” Pangandaman said in a statement on Thursday.

“It is our hope that through this allocated budget, we will be able to continue to build on what we have accomplished,” she emphasized. The DBM outlined that the

development through our transport projects,” the transport chief stressed.

While the transit-oriented development infrastructure will create walkable and efficient transportation, the concept will also reduce highenergy consumption. “We have to subscribe to this concept of creating walkable communities that reduce the need for driving and high-energy consumption. By aligning our projects to the transit-oriented development principle, we aspire to make a positive change to the lives of Filipinos through our transport projects,” Bautista said in a statement.

quality of the work environment,” the IBPAP head said.

“This is a global trend but we are seeing it here not just in Manila but in all the emerging cities and provinces that I have visited in the past month. This is good news for the workforce but it’s also something that the property sector has been able to address by improving the quality of office space,” Madrid noted.

Meanwhile, in a separate televised interview also on Wednesday, Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Lead for Jobs Jose Maria A. Concepcion III emphasized that while he is not pushing that the country reject the work-fromhome setup, increased mobility will lead to more spending and economic activity.

Concepcion underscored that the country “needs the momentum” as the gross domestic product (GDP) expanded to 4.3 percent in the second quarter of 2023, the slowest in two years.

“The more mobility you have, the more spending, when you go to a country and you see there’s a lot of people moving…. traffic all of that, that means there’s a lot of economic activity but if the streets are empty, it means that the economy is not moving,” Concepcion said.

“To me, the sign of economic boom is when everybody is just busy doing many things. Of course we have traffic. I mean there is traffic all over the world,” he added.

allocated for the establishment of secure evacuation centers, and P35 million for the construction of fishports, according to the agency.

proposed budget for BARMM includes the region’s Annual Block Grant of P70.5 billion and P5 billion Special Development Fund.

Part of the BARMM’s funding is also its share in national taxes, fees and charges amounting to P5.1 billion pursuant to Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law for the BARMM, according to the DBM.

The DBM said a P5.3 billion funding is earmarked for BARMM’s PAMANA program that seeks to develop infrastructure in various conflict-affected and conflict-vulnerable areas in the region.

“The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity [OPAPRU] is expected to oversee the successful execution of this program,” it said.

The DBM said out of the P5.3 billion PAMANA fund, about P4.21 billion would be used for the construction and maintenance of roads and bridges, while P569 million will bankroll the development of efficient water supply systems.

Furthermore, P176 million is

“An additional P10 million has been allocated for the creation and maintenance of effective flood control systems,” it said.

Part of BARMM’s 2024 proposed budget is a P5-million fund for the “professional requirements” of the region.

“These include applications for the primary registration of [Professional Regulations Commission] licenses, renewals, registrations for professional examinations, requests for certifications and authentications, and administration of examinations,” the DBM said.

Lastly, the DBM said the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Program has a P1 billion budget to sustain the rehabilitation and rebuilding of Marawi City.

“This strategic initiative enables the Marawi Compensation Board to deliver taxexempt compensation to all eligible claimants who have suffered property and personal possession damage as a result of the 2017 Marawi Siege,” it added.

Ombudsman finds cause to charge Lao, Pharmally execs in P4-B Covid kits deal

By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

Lloyd Christopher A. Lao, two other former budget officials—one of them later becoming the overall deputy ombudsman—and several Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation for allegedly conspiring to dupe the government in the amount of P4.1 billion in the procurement of Covid-19 test kits.

I n an 87-page resolution signed

August 18, 2023 by Ombudsman

Samuel R. Martires said Lao, Overall Deputy Ombudsman Warren Rex H. Liong (a former official of the DBM Procurement Service),

DBM Procurement Management Officer Paul Jasper V. De Guzman and Pharmally executives Twinkle

Dargani, Mohit Dargani, Linconn Ong, Justine Garado, and Huang

Tzu Yen will be charged with three counts of violation of of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019, the AntiGraft and Corrupt Practices Act.

O ne count of graft charge will be filed against DBM Procurement Service Director IV Christine Marie

L. Suntay, Procurement Management Officer V Webster Laurenana, employees August M. Ylagan and Jasonmer L. Uayan, and Pharmally’s Krizle Grace Mago.

“

There is no doubt that without the individual acts of the aforementioned respondents, the procurement of the test kits would not have materialized,” the resolution read.

Respondents’ concerted and conspiratorial acts enabled the award the award of a multi-billion worth of contract to Pharmally notwithstanding the existence of other corporations that are financially and technically capable to supply and deliver test kits at an equal or lower prices,” it added.

The Ombudsman also found Lao, Liong, De Guzman and Laurenana guilty of grave misconduct, gross neglect of duty, serious dishonesty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service and meted them the penalty of dismissal from the service with forfeiture of all their retirement benefits and perpetual disqualification for re-employment in the government.

A lso meted out the same penalty were Ylagan, Uayan, and Suntay who were found guilty of gross neglect of duty and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.

I f the penalty of dismissal can no longer be enforced, the Ombudsman said, their penalty should be converted into a fine equivalent to their salary for one year, payable to

By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has declared three public parks in San Juan City as “smoke-free” in compliance with existing laws.

S an Juan City Public Parks, namely, Pinaglabanan Shrine, San Juan City Mini Park, and El Polvorin Linear Park were, declared smokefree, marked a significant step towards promoting public health and ensuring clean, breathable spaces for all in Metro Manila, the MMDA and the local government unit said.

Continued from A16

Teves revealed that the country imports an estimated 2 million metric tons of various paper products, 80 percent of which are packaging paper valued at US$1.5 billion.

Because of technical smuggling, these imports are undervalued, “especially packaging paper.” He estimated that government is losing US$108 million from this. Both business and government lose, he stressed.

Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual said, in

PFP aiming for crucial wins in forthcoming polls–PBBM

the Office of the Ombudsman.

The case stemmed from the procurement of 8,000 units of BGI Real Time Fluorescent RT-PCR Kits priced at P600 million on April 23, 2020. The purchase was covered by Purchase Order No. PO20-00210-CSE.

The next purchase was for 2,000 units of A*Star Fortitude RT-PCR Test Kits priced at P688 million covered by PO No. PO20-00211-CSE.

It was followed on June 9, 2020 with the purchase of 41,400 units of BGI Real Time Fluorescent RT-PCR Kits for P2,877,300,000 covered by PO No. PO20-00286-CSE.

The Ombudsman questioned the financial capability of Pharmally to acquire test kits from foreign manufacturers or suppliers when it was awarded the P4.165-billion contract, especially since its paid-up capital was only P625,000.

It noted that the company has been in existence for barely seven months without any experience and yet the project was awarded to it.

I t added that Pharmally only had a paid-up capital stock of P625,000 with a recorded net loss of P25,550 and a declared cash or working capital of P599,450 at the end of 2019.

“Based on its financial statements, it appears that Pharmally had no financial capacity to import pharmaceutical products,” said the decision.

The Ombudsman also found it “highly questionable” that Pharmally proposed prices for the 8,000

BGI Real Time Fluorescent RT-PCR Kits and the 2,000 units of A*Star Fortitude RT-PCR Test Kits on April 21, 2020 when the DOH requested for 7,000 BGI test kits and 1,900 A*Star test kits on April 22, 2020.

Furthermore, the Ombudsman pointed out the delivery of the 2,000 A*Star test kits should have started on May 1, 2020, but was rescheduled and further delayed by Pharmally to June 8, 2020 due to an incoming typhoon.

Despite these delays, PS-DBM still awarded the company the purchase and delivery of 41,400 BGI test kits on June 8, 2020.

“Meaning, Pharmally was awarded with another contract while it has yet to complete, or start at least the delivery of the last contract. The inability to deliver on time should have been a red flag for PS-DBM to enter into another purchase contract, which notably involved a much bigger quantity,” the resolution stated.

T he Ombudsman added that although the Bayanihan 1 law exempts the procurement of test kits from the provision of RA 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Law, the Government Procurement Policy Board Circular 01-2020 and Resolution No. 03-2020 were issued to set the guidelines in the procurement of the said kits.

“ To reiterate, said guidelines were set forth by the GPPB to serve as safeguards for the prevention of abuses and corruption in the procurement process,” the Ombudsman stressed.

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday revealed he is seeking crucial wins in the forthcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) to strengthen the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP).  I n his speech after the oath-taking ceremony of new PFP members in Malacañang, the Chief Executive stressed the importance of the BSKE in determining the outcome of the 2025 mid-term polls.

The barangay elections have a big impact…a big effect on how the 2025 elections will turn out,” said Marcos, who is also PFPs’ national chairman.  That is because if we become a candidate and want to win in the 2025 [elections], we will need the support in the barangay level,” he added partly in Filipino.

The next BSKE will be held on October 30, 2023.

South Cotabato Governor and PFP National President Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. said they already made gains in their grassroots expansion since last year.

Now is the time for expansion in the electoral structure, wherein politicians will join our political party,” Tamayo said.

The son of the President, Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander A. Marcos was among the new PFP members, who took their oath of office last Thursday.

response to the concerns, “We will welcome a dialogue with the paper associations referred to by the good congressman.”

Trade Undersecretary Ceferino

S. Rodolfo, meanwhile, agreed with the lawmaker’s “observation” of dumping in the paper industry. He recalled that DTI imposed a safeguard duty on paper for 10 years, bit this lapsed in 2018.

I n this case, the Trade official said the members of the paper association are welcome to file the relevant trade remedies including anti-dumping duties with DTI.

Andrea E. San Juan

We welcome this move of the MMDA to support our initiatives to have all our parks smoke-free. This is very important because our parks are often visited by people of all ages, especially children and we certainly want them to be in a healthy environment,” San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora said.

In line with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9211 (Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003), Executive Order No. 26, Series of 2017 (Providing for the Establishment of Smoke-Free Environments in Public and Enclosed Spaces), and City Ordinance No. 5, Series of 2017 (Comprehensive Smoke Free Ordinance of the City of San Juan Metro Manila), the MMDA officially designated the Pinaglabanan Shrine,

Poor pay ‘poverty premium’ in PHL, AsPac–ADB report

T hese are also higher than the CPI of all households where food has a weight of 34.78 percent and electricity, gas and other fuels, 6.74 percent.

“In addition to reducing poverty, it is also important to amplify the resilience of Filipinos. Bringing poor people to just above the poverty line may not be enough if they can be easily pushed back below it if another crisis hits,” Martinez told reporters.

As alluded to in the Key Indicators report, strengthening socioeconomic resilience through enhanced social protection coverage that goes beyond crisis, and complemented by programs that address systematic inequalities such as investing in infrastructure that help bring socioeconomic opportunities closer to where poor Filipinos are, should be part of policy strategies that aim to

reduce poverty,” he added. A DB said poor households may also be forced to live in informal settlements where they are exposed to greater health hazards, increasing their health care costs, and they may have longer and less convenient commutes.

Further down into poverty MEANWHILE, ADB expressed concern that the increased

the Mini Park, and the El Polvorin Linear Park in San Juan City as smokefree areas.

Z amora and MMDA General Manager Procopio Lipana, together with City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Chief, Gabriel Katigbak and Ariel Atad, President of the San Juan SK Federation, led the activity.

Ang Pinaglabanan Shrine alam naman po natin na ito po ay national shrine, hindi lamang ito basta isang park, ito po ay recognized ng National Historical Commission of the Philippines as one of the very few historical sites in the Philippines, kaya ganyan po kahalaga ang Pinaglabanan Shrine,” Zamora said, reminding San Juaneños that smoking is not allowed in parks and other public areas.

Meron po tayong mga ordinansa na nakasaad na bawal ang paninigarilyo sa iba ibang lugar at meron tayong mga multa na karampatang ipapataw sa mga lalabag po sa mga batas na ito, pati po ang mga kawani ng City Hall ay hindi makakaligtas sa parusa kung sila po ay lalabag ,” he added.

The mayor also urged the CENRO to remain diligent and committed in their efforts to apprehend and issue violation tickets to individuals found smoking in public areas, particularly in parks and schools, adding “this is very crucial to uphold and preserve a smoke-free

Continued from A16

cost-of-living crisis sparked by surging inflation last year, combined with the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, continues to push people in Asia and the Pacific into extreme poverty.

A n estimated 155.2 million people in developing Asia and the Pacific, or 3.9 percent of the region’s population, lived in extreme poverty as of last

environment and there is indeed a need to maintain a strict stance against smoking violations.”

For his part, Lipana, who also served as San Juan police chief from 2008 to 2010, shared how he foresaw the then San Juan councilor Zamora would be the next Mayor of San Juan.

“Ang sabi ko sa kanya noon, ikaw ang susunod na Mayor ng San Juan, kitang kita ko na yan, sapagkat hindi lang napakasipag at napakagaling kundi nasa puso niya talaga ang pagseserbisyo, kaya mapalad ang San Juan dahil sa kanya at ngayon pagbalik ko po uli sa San Juan, masasabi kong kitang kita po talaga ang pagbabago at pag-asenso ng San Juan, congratulations po sa inyo,” Lipana said.

A s part of the program, Zamora and Lipana, along with other officials and San Juan SK officers also signed the commitment board to symbolize their respective institution’s commitment to have all parks and public spaces in San Juan City and in Metro Manila smoke-free.

It was followed by a walk through at the Pinaglabanan Shrine.

The historical shrine is among the list of parks that have been officially declared smoke-free, along with the San Juan Mini Park and the El Polvorin Park, which have also met the criteria set by the MMDA to be designated as smoke-free parks.

year, according to Key Indicators for Asia and the Pacific 2023, released today.

T he number is 67.8 million greater than it would have been without the pandemic and the increased cost of living crisis, according to the report. Extreme poverty is defined as living on less than $2.15 a day, based on 2017 prices and adjusted for purchasing power and inflation.

The other newly sworn in PFP members are Gov. Rogelio Neil P. Roque, Bukidnon; Gov. Marilou H. Cayco, Batanes; Gov. Christian M. Noveras, Aurora; Gov. Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr., Zambales; Gov. Eduardo B. Gadiano, Occidental Mindoro; Gov. Ricarte R. Padilla, Camarines Norte; Gov. Edcel Greco B. Lagman, Albay; Gov. Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado, Bohol; Gov. Damian G. Mercado, Southern Leyte; Gov. Imelda Q. Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte; Gov. Dorothy M. Gonzaga, Davao de Oro; Gov. Edwin I. Jubahib, Davao del Norte; Gov. Arthur R. Defensor Jr., Iloilo; Gov. Abdulraof A. Macacua, Maguindanao del Norte; Vice Gov. Katherine C. Agapay, Laguna.

Some government officials also joined the PFP, namely, Secretary Lope B. Santos III, Lead Convenor, National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC); Assistant Secretary Arlan M. Mangelen, Department of Agriculture; Girlie E. Amarillo, Officer-in-Charge, Office of the Deputy Director General-NAPC.

PFP is set to conduct a caucus to address the needs of its members.

M arcos also reiterated the importance of PFP’s core ideology of transitioning the country to a federal form government “in all but name” to set it apart from other political parties.

T hrough empowering local government units, he said the government operations would become more efficient and resilient.

“If the power centers only belong here in Manila, then if you bring down Manila, the entire Philippines will also be brought down,” Marcos said.

With the power centers being given to the local governments, to the local districts, and to those who are operating at the local level, and thereby bringing those power centers to many, many, many places, it makes for a more stable political structure and makes a more stable political life,” the President added.

Since it was established in 2018, PFP has become a “majority party” with the help of its ideology, according to Marcos.

M arcos ran in the 2022 polls under PFP. He was able to win in the said elections after PFP formed a coalition with Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP), and Partido ng Masang Pilipino (PMP), with guest candidates from other parties. Samuel P. Medenilla

Three San Juan City public parks declared smoke-free by MMDA

SURGE OF CHEAP PAPER IMPORTS LEADS LOCALS TO SHUT DOWN OPS

THE Office of the Ombudsman has found probable cause to file graft charges before the Sandiganbayan against former Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Undersecretary

Giuliani turns himself in on Georgia 2020 poll charges after bond is set at $150,000

By Kate Brumback

The Associated Press

ATLANTA—Rudy Giuliani, Donald Trump’s lawyer and confidant, turned himself in at a jail in Atlanta on Wednesday on charges related to efforts to overturn then-President Trump’s loss in the 2020 presidential election in Georgia.

The former New York mayor was indicted last week along with Trump and 17 others. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis said they participated in a wide-ranging conspiracy to subvert the will of the voters after the Republican president lost to Democrat Joe Biden in November 2020.

Bond for Giuliani, who was released after booking like the other defendants, was set at $150,000, second only to Trump’s $200,000.

Giuliani, 79, is accused of spearheading Trump’s efforts to compel state lawmakers in Georgia and other closely contested states to ignore the will of voters and illegally appoint electoral college electors favorable to Trump.

Other high-profile defendants also surrendered Wednesday, including Jenna Ellis, an attorney who prosecutors say was involved in efforts to convince state lawmakers to unlawfully appoint presidential electors, and lawyer Sidney Powell, accused of making false statements about the election in Georgia and helping to organize a breach of voting equipment in rural Coffee County.

Georgia was one of several key states Trump lost by slim margins, prompting the Republican and his allies to proclaim, without evidence, that the election was rigged in favor of his Democratic rival Biden.

Giuliani is charged with making false statements and soliciting false testimony, conspiring to create phony paperwork and asking state lawmakers to violate their oath of office to appoint an alternate slate of pro-Trump electors.

Outside the Fulton County Jail Wednesday afternoon, Giuliani laughed when asked if he regretted allying himself with Trump.

“I am very, very honored to be involved in this case because this case is a fight for our way of life,” Giuliani told reporters. “This indictment is a travesty. It’s an attack on—not just me, not just President Trump, not just the people in this indictment, some of whom I don’t even know—this is an attack on the American people.”

After Giuliani’s surrender, Trump repeated his unfounded claims that the election was rigged and stolen and wrote on his social media site, “The greatest Mayor in the history of New York City was just ARRESTED in Atlanta, Georgia, because he fought for Election Integrity.”

Trump, the early front-runner in the 2024 Republican presidential primary, has said he plans to turn himself in at the Fulton County Jail on Thursday. He and his allies have characterized the investigation as politically motivated and have heavily criticized District Attorney Willis, a Democrat.

Former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark are both trying to have the case against them heard in federal court rather than in Fulton County Superior Court. Both argue the actions that gave rise to the charges in the indictment were related to their work as federal officials and that the case should be moved to federal court and the charges against them dismissed.

They had each asked a judge to allow them to avoid being arrested while those requests are pending. But US District Judge Steve Jones on Wednesday rejected their requests to avoid having to be booked in jail while they fight to move the case to federal court.

Willis has set a deadline of noon on Friday for the people indicted last week in the election subversion case to turn themselves in. Her team has been negotiating bond amounts and conditions with the lawyers for the defendants before they surrender at the jail.

Misty Hampton, who was the Coffee County elections director when a breach of election equipment happened there, had her bond set at $10,000. David Shafer, who’s a former Georgia Republican Party chair and served as one of 16 fake electors for Trump, and Cathy Latham, who’s accused in the Coffee County breach and was also a fake elector, turned themselves in Wednesday morning. Also surrendering Wednesday were lawyers Ray Smith and Kenneth Chesebro, who prosecutors said helped organize the fake electors meeting at the state Capitol in December 2020.

Attorney John Eastman, who pushed a plan to keep Trump in power, and Scott Hall, a bail bondsman who was accused of participating in the breach of election equipment in Coffee County, turned themselves in Tuesday.

The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office has said it will release booking photos around 4 p.m. each day, but Shafer appeared to post his on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, just after 7 a.m. Wednesday with the message, “Good morning! #NewProfilePicture.”

Lawyers for Chesebro on Wednesday filed a demand for a speedy trial. Typically, such a demand would mean that trial proceedings would need to get underway this fall, but this case has many defendants and multiple complicating factors, Georgia State University law school professor Anthony Michael Kreis said.

While Republicans in Georgia and elsewhere are calling for Willis to be punished for indicting Trump, a group of Black pastors and community activists gathered outside the state Capitol in Atlanta Wednesday to pray for and proclaim their support for the Democratic prosecutor.

Bishop Reginald Jackson, who leads Georgia’s African Methodist Episcopal churches, said that Willis is under attack “as a result of her courage and determination.”

T he Associated Press writers Jeff Amy in Atlanta and Michael R. Sisak in New York contributed reporting.

China bans Japan seafood after Fukushima wastewater release

By Mari Yamaguchi The Associated Press

In a live video from a control room at the plant, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings showed a staff member turn on a seawater pump with a click of a mouse, marking the beginning of the controversial project that is expected to last for decades.

“Seawater Pump A activated,” the main operator said, confirming the release was underway. TEPCO later confirmed that the seawater pump was activated at 1:03 p.m. (0403 GMT), three minutes after the final step began.

TEPCO said an additional wastewater release pump was activated 20 minutes after the first. Plant officials said everything was moving smoothly so far.

Japanese fisher groups have opposed the plan for fear it will further damage the reputation of their seafood. Groups in China and South Korea have also raised concern, making it a political and diplomatic issue.

In response to the release, Chinese customs authorities banned seafood from Japan, customs authorities announced Thursday. The ban started immediately and will affect all imports of “aquatic products” including seafood, according to the notice. Authorities said they will “dynamically adjust relevant regulatory measures as appropriate to prevent the risks of nuclear-contaminated water discharge to the health and food safety of our country.”

But the Japanese government and TEPCO say the water must be released to make room for the plant’s decommissioning and to prevent accidental leaks. They say the treatment and dilution will make the wastewater safer than international standards and its environmental impact will be

negligibly small.

Tony Hooker, director of the Center for Radiation Research, Education, Innovation at the University of Adelaide, said the water released from the Fukushima plant is safe. “It certainly is well below the World Health Organization drinking water guidelines,” he said. “It’s safe.”

“It’s a very political issue of disposing radiation into the sea,” he said. “I understand people’s concerns and that’s because we as scientists have not explained it in a very good way, and we need to do more education.”

Still, some scientists say the long-term impact of the low-dose radioactivity that remains in the water needs attention.

In a statement Thursday, International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said, “IAEA experts are there on the ground to serve as the eyes of the international community and ensure that the discharge is being carried out as planned consistent with IAEA safety standards.”

The United Nations agency also said it would launch a webpage to provide live data about the discharge, and repeated its assurance that the IAEA would have an onsite presence for the duration of the release.

The water release begins more than 12 years after the March 2011 nuclear meltdowns, caused by a massive earthquake and tsunami. It marks a milestone for the plant’s battle with an ever-growing radioactive water stockpile that TEPCO and the government say has hampered the daunting task of removing the fatally toxic melted debris from the reactors.

The pump activated Thursday afternoon sent the first batch of the diluted, treated water from a mixing pool to a secondary pool 10 minutes later. It then moves through a connected undersea tunnel to go out 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) off the coast. Officials said the water moves at a walking speed and will take about 30 minutes to exit from the tunnel.

The operator checked data and the progress on a set of four monitors that show the water volume, pump conditions and any alerts.

TEPCO executive Junichi Matsumoto said Thursday’s release was planned to start small in order to ensure safety.

The wastewater is collected and partly recycled as cooling water after treatment, with the rest stored in around 1,000 tanks, which are already filled to 98 percent of their 1.37-million-ton capacity. Those tanks, which cover much of the plant complex, must be freed up to build the new facilities needed for the decommissioning process, officials said.

Final preparation for the release began Tuesday, when just one ton of treated water was sent from a tank for dilution with 1,200 tons of seawater, and the mixture was kept in the primary pool for two days for final sampling to ensure safety, Matsumoto said. A batch of 460 tons was to be sent to the mixing pool Thursday for the actual discharge.

Fukushima’s fisheries, tourism and economy—which are still recovering from the disaster—worry the release could be the beginning of a new hardship.

Fukushima’s current fish catch is only about one-fifth its pre-disaster level, in part due to a decline in the fishing population.

China has tightened radiation testing on Japanese products from Fukushima and nine other prefectures, halting exports at customs for weeks, Fisheries Agency officials said.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said the release is indispensable and could not be postponed. He noted an experimental removal of a small amount of the melted debris from the No. 2 reactor is set for later this year using a remotecontrolled giant robotic arm.

In 2021, the Japanese government announced plans to release the treated water to the sea. Then, on Sunday, Kishida made a rushed visit to the plant before meeting with fisheries representatives and pledging to support their livelihoods until the release ends.

The hurried timeline raised skepticism that it was made to fit Kishida’s busy political schedule in September. But Economy and Industry Ministry officials say they wanted the release to start as early as possible and have good safety records ahead of the fall fishing season.

The March 2011 earthquake and tsunami destroyed the plant’s cooling systems, causing three reactors to melt. Highly contaminated cooling water applied to the damaged reactors has leaked continuously

TEPCO

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Mercenary leader Prigozhin presumed dead in a plane crash outside Moscow

By Dasha Litvinova The Associated Press

TALLINN, Estonia—Mercenary leader

Yevgeny Prigozhin, who led a brief armed rebellion against the Russian military earlier this year, was presumed dead Wednesday after a plane crash north of Moscow that killed all 10 people on board.

Prigozhin was on the plane, according to Russia’s civil aviation agency, which cited the airline. The crash immediately raised suspicions since the fate of the founder of the Wagner private military company has been the subject of intense speculation ever since he mounted the mutiny.

At the time, President Vladimir Putin denounced the rebellion as “treason” and a “stab in the back” and vowed to avenge it. But the charges against Prigozhin were soon dropped. The Wagner chief, whose troops were some of the best fighting forces for Russia in Ukraine, was allowed to retreat to Belarus, while reportedly popping up in Russia from time to time. The crash also comes after Russian

media reported that a top general linked to Prigozhin was dismissed from his position as commander of the air force.

A plane carrying three crewmembers and seven passengers that was en route from Moscow to St. Petersburg went down almost 300 kilometers (185 miles) north of the capital, according to officials cited by Russia’s state news agency Tass. Russia’s civilian aviation agency, Rosaviatsia, quickly reported that he was on the manifest and later said that, according to the airline, he was indeed on board.

Earlier, Vladimir Rogov, a Russiaappointed official in the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region in Ukraine, said he talked to Wagner commanders who also confirmed that Prigozhin was aboard, as was Dmitry Utkin, whose call sign Wagner became the company’s name.

“I don’t know for a fact what happened but I’m not surprised,” US President Joe Biden said. Keir Giles, a Russia expert with the international affairs think tank Chatham House, had urged caution about reports

of Prigozhin’s death. He said “multiple individuals have changed their name to Yevgeniy Prigozhin, as part of his efforts to obfuscate his travels.”

Flight tracking data reviewed by The Associated Press showed a private jet that Prigozhin had used previously took off from Moscow on Wednesday evening and its transponder signal disappeared minutes later.

The signal stopped suddenly while the plane was at altitude and traveling at speed. In an image posted by a proWagner social media account showing burning wreckage, a partial tail number matching a jet previously used by Prigozhin could be seen.

Videos shared by the pro-Wagner Telegram channel Grey Zone showed a plane dropping like a stone from a large cloud of smoke, twisting wildly as it fell. Such freefalls can occur when an aircraft sustains severe damage, and a frame-by-frame AP analysis of two videos was consistent with some sort of explosion mid-flight. The images appeared to show the plane was

missing a wing.

Russia’s Investigative Committee opened an investigation into the crash on charges of violating air safety rules, as is typical when they open such probes. Interfax, citing emergency officials, reported early Thursday that all 10 bodies had been recovered at the site of the crash and the search operation had ended.

Even if confirmed, Prigozhin’s death is unlikely to have an effect on Russia’s war in Ukraine, where his forces fought some of the fiercest battles over the past 18 months.

His troops pulled back from front-line action after capturing Bakhmut, a city in the eastern Donetsk region, in late May.

Bakhmut had been the subject of arguably the bloodiest battles in the entire war, with the Russian forces struggling to seize it for months.

After the rebellion, Russian officials said his fighters would only be able to return to Ukraine as part of the regular army.

This week, Prigozhin posted his first recruitment video since the mutiny, saying that Wagner is conducting reconnaissance

and search activities, and “making Russia even greater on all continents, and Africa even more free. “

Also this week, Russian media reported, citing anonymous sources, that Gen. Sergei Surovikin was dismissed from his position of the commander of Russia’s air force.

Surovikin, who at one point led Russia’s operation in Ukraine, hasn’t been seen in public since the mutiny, when he recorded a video address urging Prigozhin’s forces to pull back.

As news of the crash was breaking, Putin spoke at an event commemorating the Battle of Kursk, hailing the heroes of Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said on Telegram that “no matter what caused the plane crash, everyone will see it as an act of vengeance and retribution” by the Kremlin, and “the Kremlin wouldn’t really stand in the way of that.”

“From Putin’s point of view, as well as the security forces and the military— Prigozhin’s death must be a lesson to any

potential followers,” Stanovaya said in a Telegram post. According to her, after the mutiny, Prigozhin “stopped being the authorities’ partner and could not, under any circumstances, get that status back.”

“He also wasn’t forgiven,” Stanovaya wrote. “Prigozhin was needed for some time after the mutiny to painlessly complete the dismantling of Wagner in Russia.” But overall, “alive, happy, full-ofstrength and full-of-ideas Prigozhin was, definitely, a walking source of threats for the authorities, the embodiment of Putin’s political humiliation.”

Stanovaya doesn’t expect much public outcry over Prigozhin’s death. She said those who supported him will be “more scared than inspired to protest,” while others would see it as a “deserved outcome.”

OKUMA, Japan—The tsunamiwrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant’s operator says it began releasing its first batch of treated radioactive water into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday—a controversial step that prompted China to ban seafood from Japan.

to building basements and mixed with groundwater.

plans to release 31,200 tons of the treated water by the end of March 2024, which would empty only 10 tanks because of the contaminated production of wastewater at the plant, though the pace will later pick up.

P reporter Huizhong Wu contributed from Taipei, Taiwan.

THIS aerial view shows the tanks, seen foreground, which contain treated radioactive wastewater at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Fukushima, northern Japan, on August 22, 2023. The operator of the tsunami-wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant will begin releasing the first batch of treated and diluted radioactive wastewater into the Pacific Ocean later Thursday, August 24, 2023, utility executives said. KYODO NEWS VIA AP

The Associated Press writers Jill Lawless in London, Michael Biesecker in Washington, Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Seung Min Kim in South Lake Tahoe, California, contributed to this report.

DMW Secretary Susan ‘Toots’ Ople: You will be gone, but not forgotten

BusinessMirror lost a crusading columnist, and millions of our overseas workers lost their tireless champion. The death on Tuesday of Secretary Susan “Toots” Ople of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is a “great loss to the Philippines,” President Marcos said. “It’s a very, very sad news. I have lost a friend. The Philippines has lost a friend. It’s a big loss. Ang galing-galing ni Secretary Toots. She very much followed in the footsteps of Blas Ople’s tradition of excellence, of compassion. It is a great loss for all of us.”

“She dedicated her life, in every waking moment, to the welfare of laborers in general and migrant workers in particular. She was tireless in her pursuit to always support and find protection for our workers. There cannot be a better example of the perfect mix of compassion and hard-nosed pragmatism than in Toots. She got many things done in her years of public service, and all for others, never for herself. I grieve together with her family and all those who called Toots a friend. Our prayers are with you,” Marcos posted on social media.

Vice President and concurrent DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte mourned the passing of her fellow Cabinet member. “The country has lost a real patriot whose life was dedicated to the welfare and protection of the fundamental rights of migrant Filipino workers and their families. She was a beacon of hope and a source of strength for migrant workers caught in distressing situations while working abroad,” Duterte said.

Ople served as undersecretary of the Department of Labor and Employment in 2004-2009, and founded the Blas F. Ople Policy Center and Training Institute—a nonprofit named after her father. The institute assists OFWs in distress, handles labor and migration concerns, and develops programs to empower our migrant workers and their family members.

Ople was one of the OFW advocates who pressed for Congress to pass the law creating the Department of Migrant Workers. Little did she know that when Bongbong Marcos won the 2022 elections, she would take the helm as the first DMW secretary.

When the President offered Ople the DMW post in June 2022, she told him she has breast cancer, and asked the chief executive pointblank if her cancer would be an issue. “You know, it’s perfectly fine,” Marcos said. “We instantly moved into discussions on policy matter,” Ople told the BusinessMirror in an interview following her appointment.

Ople was a staunch supporter of labor rights and was the “best thing” that happened to migrant workers, according to Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom Teodoro Locsin Jr. He recalled how Ople tirelessly worked on behalf of overseas Filipino workers with or without office or means in the past.

“Perfect and irreplaceable fit to head migrants’ own department; she worked on their behalf without office or means but her own before then; confused what to do, DFA [Department of Foreign Affairs] turned to her in her private commitment to the national good,” read Locsin’s statement.

Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. said: “Secretary Ople’s demise leaves a profound sense of loss and a huge vacuum in public service that is tough to fill. In honor of her service that was marked by genuine passion and total dedication, the DND vows to continue assisting the DMW vigorously, not only in repatriation efforts, but in all other ways we can be of service when the need arises.”

For the newly elected head of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the UN agency in charge of migrant workers, Ople’s demise was not only a loss to the Philippines, but also to the entire world. “I am absolutely devastated by the passing of Secretary Ople. She was kind, fierce, funny and passionate. A true advocate for migrants and for the vulnerable. The world is poorer today because of this loss,” Amy Pope, IOM’s Director General-elect, wrote on X.

Mourning the sudden passing of Secretary Ople, OFWs and their family members took to social media to express their respect, admiration, and gratitude for her unrelenting commitment to champion their rights.

Goodbye, Secretary Ople. Our OFWs will honor your memory for your dedication and selfless service. You will be remembered for your big heart, and your fierce advocacy to advance and protect the welfare of our migrant workers. You will be greatly missed by the entire Filipino nation.

From your BusinessMirror family, we say our final farewell with a heavy heart. Thank you for your friendship. You will be gone, but in the deepest chamber of our heart, you will be there forever. Godspeed, Toots.

Setting an example and taking the lead in developing and promoting Filipino products

sonny M. angara

Better Days

IN a recent briefing of the Development Budget Coordination Committee on the P5.768 trillion national budget for 2024, our colleague and good friend Senator Nancy Binay narrated an interesting anecdote about her office’s toilet paper. Sen. Nancy noted that the quality of the toilet paper, which costs a mere P7 per roll, was so bad that it would stick to one’s hand when wet. She said this particular office supply, while cheap, was imported and was inferior to the quality being produced by local manufacturers. The point she was trying to make was that even though Philippine-made toilet paper may be more expensive, if the quality is significantly better, then consumers would end up using less and as a consequence, this would be more economical than the imported product.

Senator Binay brought up the issue to ask about the government’s policy on patronizing Philippinemade products. This is also in consonance with our Tatak Pinoy or proudly Filipino advocacy that has now progressed to become a bill and a priority measure of the Marcos administration. The point of our colleague is valid and has actually become normal practice for many countries. Government should take the lead in promoting and supporting Philippine-made products and we can do this by giving preference

to domestic manufacturers, subject to our existing laws on procurement. We can start by simply complying with our own laws on procurement. The implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act contains a provision requiring the procuring entities to give preference to materials and supplies produced, made and manufactured in the Philippines and that the award shall be made to the lowest domestic bidder, provided his bid is not more than 15 percent in excess of

the lowest foreign bid. To remind our government agencies about this provision and to put emphasis on the importance of supporting our local industries, we include this in the general provisions of the annual General Appropriations Act.

A constant feedback that we get from the local suppliers, particularly the small players, is that they have a difficult time complying with the requirements for bidding. They are required to have a track record and a certain number of supply contracts that are very difficult for them to comply with, especially when they are still small and relatively new in the business.

Both the Government Procurement Policy Board and the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM) point to eligibility issues as the main culprit for the local companies’ inability to participate in government bidding processes. One of the most important requirements for the prospective bidders is the domestic bidders certificate issued by the Department of Trade and Industry.

PS-DBM informed us during the briefing that the requirements for the prospective bidders include experience, meaning if they have entered into similar contracts before and if they have been in operation for a certain period as identified by the procuring entity. This period could

be anywhere from three to five years. This is the biggest barrier to entry for many of the suppliers, especially the small and medium enterprises and start-ups. I suggested that we introduce a gradation in the number of years required as experience for bidders, depending on the nature of goods or services that they will provide. Complex services like the construction of power plants would necessitate longer track records while the supply of simple, common use products such as toilet paper could be granted to smaller and newer suppliers.

Our Tatak Pinoy bill contains a provision on domestic preference. It states that preference and priority should be given to domestically produced and manufactured products, supplies and materials, which meet the specified or desired quality. We have also filed a bill to institutionalize the certification program of domestic bidders. Both measures are consistent with the provision of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade that excludes government procurement from international trade rules for as long as the products purchased are for governmental purposes and not with a view to commercial resale or with a view to use in the production of goods for commercial sale. We want to create a demand for Filipino products and

See “Angara,” A15

From Europe to Canada to Hawaii, photos capture destructive power of wildfires

By The Associated Press

The destructive power of wildfire has been a defining feature of a summer of climate extremes.

Dozens of people on multiple continents have died. Blazes have reduced homes and businesses to rubble. Thick smoke has darkened skies and carried fine-particle pollution thousands of miles from its source.

It’s a ghastly pattern that climate scientists around the world say has been worsened and fueled by humancaused global warming. Greenhouse gas emissions have greatly increased the chances of hot, dry weather that makes severe fires more likely. And while proper management can help—for instance, controlled burns and clearing out overgrown forests—it’s not always enough to beat the odds as climate change drives fire seasons to start earlier and last longer.

The toll on humans will be great. Beyond the immediate aftermath, experts say that exposure to wildfire smoke can cause long-term issues for human health, with respiratory ef-

Winds whip up flames in Greece and Turkey

fects like asthma and COPD as well as impacts on the function of the heart, brain and kidneys. The psychological damage, too, can be lifelong. People in the direct path of wildfires may experience post-traumatic stress or struggle with their mental health after losing their loved ones, homes or livelihoods.

Fire is just one face of climate change, which also drives broiling heat, catastrophic storms and floods and other wacky weather. But the dramatic images of this summer’s infernos, from flames to ash, are a stark reminder of just how much things have changed, and how much we still stand to lose.

A BLA zE rampaging through northeastern Greece on Tuesday killed 18 people, believed to be migrants crossing the border from Turkey, where, in that country too, villages of a northwestern province have been evacuated to protect people from wildfires. In the Greek city of Alexandroupolis, health authorities partially evacuated a hospital, and other flames near the capital traveled into Parnitha national park, a green area to the northwest of Athens.

Firefighters in Greece have confronted more than 350 fires over five days. Gale-force winds have made the task more challenging, and the hot and dry summer conditions have been some of the worst since meteorological records have been kept, authorities said. Across Europe, many areas have experienced a brutally hot summer as global heat records sweltered to all-time record highs in July.

The Greek government is planning tougher penalties for arson in the wake of the damage, but the ex-

tra heat from climate change is also to blame. And the fires only add to the cycle of warming: Greece saw its highest wildfire-related emissions on record this July, according to data from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service, part of the European Union’s Earth observation program.

Panic and sorrow on a ravaged Maui

IT started with a brush fire overnight in Kula. Then a grass fire across the island near Lahaina started in the early morning and jumped a containment line by the afternoon.

Without any warning, residents say they were unable to save many of their neighbors, including children. People tried to rush out of Lahaina even as closed roads hindered evacuation efforts. Some, trapped in their cars, jumped over a seawall into rough waves to escape.

Eventually the wreckage became clear: historic Lahaina had become the site of the deadliest US wildfire

See “Wildfires,” A15

By Mari Yamaguchi | The Associated Press

TOKYO—Japanese officials plan to start discharging treated radioactive wastewater from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday, a contentious step more than 12 years after a massive earthquake and tsunami set off a battle against ever-increasing amounts of radioactive water at the plant.

The government and plant operator say the release is an unavoidable part of its decommissioning and will be safely carried out, but the plan faces opposition in and outside Japan. Here is a look at the controversy.

Why is there so much wastewater?

THE March 2011 earthquake and tsunami destroyed the plant’s cooling systems, causing three reactors to melt. Highly contaminated cooling water applied to the damaged reactors has leaked continuously to building basements and mixed with groundwater. The plant operator, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (TEPCo), has taken steps to limit the amount of groundwater and rainwater entering the reactor area, and has reduced the increase in contaminated water to about 100 tons a day, 1/5 of the initial amount. The water is collected and partly recycled as cooling water after treatment, with the rest stored in around 1,000 tanks, which are already filled to 98 percent of their 1.37 million-ton capacity.

Why is TEPCO releasing the water now?

THE government and TEPCo say they need to make room for the plant’s decommissioning and prevent accidental leaks from the tanks.

Japan has obtained support from the International Atomic Energy Agency to improve the transparency and credibility of the release and ensure it meets international safety standards. The government has also stepped up a campaign promoting the plan’s safety at home and through diplomatic channels.

Riding my bus into the sunrise

Tito Genova Valiente annoTaTions

When the lockdown was lifted, the safest means of transportation for me in my first trip to Manila from naga City was the bus. even now and more than ever, the buses remain the most reliable mode of conveyance. Our buses survive the schedules even during typhoons. Compared to this, the planes are fragile. During cloudy days, the flights to this city are bound to be canceled.

the world and that the amount will be several times lower than from plants in China and South Korea.

Scientists generally support the IAEA’s conclusion, while some call for more attention to dozens of lowdose radionuclides that remain in the water, saying data on their long-term effects on the environment and marine life are insufficient.

Experts say the release of treated water from Fukushima is much less challenging than the daunting task of removing deadly radioactive debris that remains in the damaged reactors.

How will it be released?

TEPCo executive Junichi Matsumoto says the release will begin with the least radioactive water to ensure safety. After samples are analyzed in final testing, the water will be transported through a thin black pipe to a coastal area where it will be diluted with hundreds of times its volume of seawater.

The diluted water will enter an undersea tunnel and be released a few minutes later from a point one kilometer (0.6 mile) off the coast. The release will be gradual and will continue for decades until the decommissioning of the plant is finished, TEPCo officials say. Matsumoto said the slow release will further reduce the environmental impact.

I remember that ride: as the bus lumbered into the city, I was happy to be back in a place where I spent more than 30 years as an academic.

In one of these travels, I recall getting a ticket that brought me to this new terminal called PITX, which stood for Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange. The name sounds fancy but as with all structures with systems built by our government the place was mismanaged and a mess. There were signages all over but they did not help. There was a sign pointing to an elevator but the lift was not working when I first got there. When my bus stopped there for the first time, it parked on the ground floor. I followed the sign for taxis and grab cars but there was a note saying the area was for private cars. The second time the bus stopped at PITX, which drivers referred to as “Pitix,” we were brought to the second floor and there was no direction at all where I could go. As with all directions in this country, you either hit or miss.

asking me sounded insane) response:

“What would I do in novaliches?”

“Why should I go to Bulacan?”

Woe to those going to those places and you would hear price quotes so impossibly high I cried for the provincianos fleeced by these pirates. But I could not do anything, as I was afraid for my life even as these drivers had begun to call you using what they assumed to be your language. Soon, the irrational rules were dropped and the bus could go all the way to my favored terminal in Quezon City, in Cubao.

I was back in the old terminal and I was back in the dirtiest place in the world.

What is it about public toilets that we can never really keep them clean? Fresh out of lockdown, I was still in that mode of being kind to each other that I believe I had ignored the state of affairs in this bus terminal. But recently I could not avoid noticing anymore the surroundings in the terminal.

on one of the mornings of our arrival, I had to avoid the splashes from a man who was bathing using the hose for cleaning a bus!

Let me continue my rant.

Why do we make it second nature to punish ourselves by coming up with all sorts of barriers? In this terminal, there is a rope that stretches across the entrance from the highway. The purpose, I assume, is to stop vehicles whose drivers/owners possess a grave sense of entitlement from entering the terminal. The purpose of the entitled potentate is to deposit the passenger right at the door of his bus.

trip got canceled—that you feel good about the surplus of information available. At your own risk, of course.

What’s in the treated water?

THE water is being treated by what’s called an Advanced Liquid Processing System, which can reduce the amounts of more than 60 selected radionuclides to government-set releasable levels, except for tritium, which officials say is safe for humans if consumed in small amounts.

Final preparation for the release began Tuesday when just one ton of water was sent for dilution with 1,200 tons of seawater, and the mixture was to be kept in the primary pool for two days for final sampling to ensure safety, Matsumoto said. A batch of 460 tons will be sent to the mixing pool Thursday for the actual discharge. The company plans to release 31,200 tons of treated water by the end of March 2024, which would empty only 10 tanks because of the continued production of wastewater at the plant. The pace will later pick up.

Why PITX? Because during that time in 2022, there was a regulation prohibiting all provincial buses from entering the city. What happened then was for those coming from Bikol, as in my case, we had to take a long ride using either the taxi or a motorcycle—both vehicles operated by mercenary individuals. For some reason, they always asked me if I were going to novaliches or Bulacan. To this impertinent question, I had developed a lucid (which to the driver

The ground is slippery from oil and grease. You cannot be pulling your luggage over it if you want to keep your bags clean. Then there are the holes and ruts. no fancy luggage with smooth and solid wheels can save your day as you navigate the area from the moment you get off the bus to the time you reach the sidewalk where you hail cabs or wait for your grab car. Think of pulling your luggage over a small hill with rocks, stones, and crevasses—that is how one walks over this terminal of mine.

But we are a country of entitlements. So many times I saw cars trying to ram itself into the terminal area being stopped by a man shouting, his hands stretched out to stop any intruder. As with all those persons assisting passengers, this man has no sign at all that he represents the bus company. In fact, there are numerous individuals in the terminal who could impress you with their ability to speak for the bus companies —which bus is leaving soon, which

Last month, our group traveled to Bangkok for a conference on translation. Part of our itinerary was to go to the fabled Chiang Mai. our adventure began with our taxi driver who, when we communicated that we needed to arrive at the bus terminal at 9 in the evening, found a way to shorten our trip. We made it in time for the departure. The bus was something else: the wide seats had a kind of shell into which you could retreat and recline. There were free drinks and snacks, hot porridge at the brief stop. Excited about the trip, I made sure I was awake. But I fell asleep too soon, warm in the embrace of the softest blanket, with the bus not making any jolts, as it passed by trees aligned on either side of the wide highway. I woke up with the hills of Chiang Mai around and the most splendid bus rides in my life. Then the sense of how gross and dirty the country of my birth is.

HK sushi restaurants brace for cost jump after Japan seafood ban

By Ka Ho Cheuk, Kari Lindberg & Linda Lew

Why are people worried?

About 70 percent of the water held in the tanks still contains cesium, strontium, carbon-14 and other radionuclides exceeding governmentset levels. It will be retreated until the concentrations meet those limits, and then diluted by more than 100 times its volume of seawater before it is released. That will bring it way below international safety limits, but its radioactivity won’t be zero.

How safe is it?

IAEA concluded in a report that the plan, if conducted as designed, will have negligible impact on the environment and human health.

IAEA chief Rafael grossi visited the plant and said he was satisfied with preparations.

Japan’s government says the release of tritium into the sea is a routine practice by nuclear plants around

Angara . . .

continued from A14

We make this appeal to our government procuring entities: let us help our small and medium enterprises to participate in these supply contracts so that they can gain the necessary experience. government should take the lead in providing opportunities for our entrepreneurs. We should make it a policy to procure

FUKUSHIMA’S badly hit fisheries, tourism and economy are still recovering from the disaster. Fisheries groups worry about a further damage to the reputation of their seafood. Fukushima’s current catch is only about one-fifth its pre-disaster level due to a decline in the fishing population and smaller catch sizes.

The head of the national Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives, Masanobu Sakamoto, said on Monday that “scientific safety and the sense of safety are different.” groups in South Korea and China have also raised concerns, turning the release into a political and diplomatic issue. China has stepped up radiation testing of fishery and agricultural products from Fukushima and nine other prefectures, halting exports at customs for weeks, Fisheries Agency officials say.

common supplies from local players. our consumers have leveled up, the local producers have responded by leveling up, and it seems our government is the only one that has yet to level up.

Senator Sonny Angara has been in public service for 18 years—9 years as Representative of the Lone District of Aurora, and 9 as Senator. He has authored, co-authored, and sponsored more than 330 laws. He is currently serving his second term in the Senate. E-mail: sensonnyangara@yahoo.com| Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @sonnyangara

Hong Kong’s restaurants are reshaping their supply chains after the government banned seafood from parts of Japan, bringing the financial hub’s curbs more in line with Beijing despite scientific reassurances the products are safe to eat.

The city will block purchases of seafood from 10 Japanese prefectures including Tokyo as the nation begins releasing treated wastewater from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific ocean on Thursday. Violations of the ban are punishable by up to a year in jail.

Hong Kong officials say the restrictions are needed to protect food safety, echoing the mainland criticisms of Japan’s wastewater plan as “selfish and irresponsible.” Beijing already curbs Japanese food imports from those regions, which include some that are landlocked.

Japan’s marine delicacies are big business for Hong Kong, which imported some 75.5 billion yen ($520 million) of the nation’s seafood and shellfish last year. That made the city the second largest buyer after the mainland, with 87.1 billion yen of purchases.

The saga is yet another headache for the city’s restaurant industry, which is still suffering from the effects from pandemic curbs and a

Wildfires

. .

.

continued from A14

in over 100 years.

Researchers say that climate change and land use changes amplified the cost of human error in this ca-

worker shortage. Some restaurants are now fretting about soaring import costs and potential supply delays, as they look to source ingredients for sushi, sashimi and other dishes from elsewhere in Japan or other parts of the world.

“When restaurants are scrambling to switch their suppliers, the import cost will at least be doubled,” said Eddie oei, who owns the Japanese restaurant Lung Fu Pao in the financial district. His restaurant serves hand rolls and barbecued seafood, and sources about 40 percent of its ingredients from the banned prefectures.

oei said his company is cutting dishes affected by the ban for now, as he searches for new suppliers. But even tapping supply from elsewhere in Japan poses issues, since the government plans to inspect Japanese products for radiation—a process he said will impact the freshness of ingredients. The ban is also emblematic of how the once freewheeling financial hub is increasingly fallen in line Beijing’s diplomatic stance.

“Loyalty to Beijing has become an underlying and automatic element in Hong Kong’s decision-making process, especially if they see the issue has become an important diplomatic matter for the central government,” said Dongshu Liu, assistant professor specializing in Chinese politics at the City University of Hong Kong.

China isn’t alone in expressing

tastrophe, as wildfire, storms, floods and other disasters have been on the rise in Hawaii. Flash droughts, which happened this summer and are more likely as a result of global warming, can create an abundance of dry grass on the islands in a short amount of time. And as some plantation agri-

concern about Japan’s wastewater discharge. South Korea’s main opposition party this week labeled the plans the “worst environmental destruction,” and denounced President Yoon Suk Yeol over his government’s backing of Japan.

Japan’s proposal does have the support of scientists, with the International Atomic Energy Agency concluding after a two-year review that the strategy would have a negligible impact on people and the environment. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has insisted the country will meet safety standards, and that similar releases of wastewater are relatively commonplace.

Hong Kong’s ban will hurt tourism and make people question whether the city still has autonomy, said Liu, the professor.

Hong Kong officials defended their move on Wednesday, saying it was intended to protect the safety of food coming into the city. Discharging wastewater from Fukushima— the site of one of the world’s worst atomic disasters more than a decade ago—isn’t the same as releasing wastewater from functioning nuclear plants, said Lee Siu-keung, the city’s senior physicist at the Department of Health, at a press briefing.

The city said that travelers returning from the Japan with a couple of boxes of seafood for personal consumption won’t be penalized, adding that the ban is intended to

E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com services and government must do its part in this effort.

culture has shifted to ranching, more areas now act as kindling, fueling the problem even further.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden took an aerial tour of the devastation in Hawaii on Monday.

In his remarks in Lahaina, Biden made reference to the burned but

curb commercial use of aquatic products, which includes “all live, frozen, chilled, dried, or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt and unprocessed or processed seaweed.”

Asked at Wednesday’s briefing about how radioactive testing procedures may affect supply delivery times, authorities said testing and customs clearance for seafood will usually take a few hours. of ficials also said they planned to have more meetings with the restaurant industry to ensure smooth implementation of the policy.

Several restaurants approached by Bloomberg news declined to talk about the seafood ban. The caution in publicly commenting on the negative impact of the restrictions is partly because such remarks may be seen as criticizing government policy, according to a person familiar with Hong Kong’s food and beverage industry. The person declined to share their name discussing private matters. Some restaurant owners said they’ve already made contingency plans, given the Hong Kong government had warned it would impose the ban.

“It takes time for the price comparison and quality check, especially when the increasing demand in unaffected prefectures is tightening the distribution,” said oei, the Lung Fu Pao owner. With assistance from Jane Pong, James Mayger, Rebecca Choong Wilkins and Hallie Gu / Bloomberg

surviving banyan tree considered beloved and sacred by many in the island community. The damage is overwhelming and the cleanup will be hard and long, Biden said. But he noted that one resident had called the tree a “diamond in the rough of hope.”

Here’s what you need to know as Fukushima nuclear plant’s wastewater is discharged to the sea

Poor pay ‘poverty premium’ in PHL, AsPac–ADB report

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

At the launch of the Key Indicators for Asia and the Pacific report on Thursday, ADB Economic Research and Development Impact Department Statistician Arturo Martinez Jr. said the poor pay a poverty premium which makes goods and services about 20 percent more expensive compared to the country average.

I n the Philippines, poor households have a penchant for buying “tingi” or small quantities which are cheaper, but in the long run turn out to be expensive as they need to buy more to meet their needs. More affluent households, however, have greater financial resources and are able to buy in bulk, which turns

out cheaper as this prevents them from buying as frequently as poor households do.

“ The report alludes to incomeconstrained people who may prefer buying in small quantities while people with higher incomes have the option to buy in bulk if they desire. In some cases, quantity premiums may be substantial in the long run. This is just one example of how the poverty premium manifests,” Martinez told BusinessMirror in an email.

O ther examples of poverty premiums have to do with bad roads which make transportation costlier for poor households. Since many

poor Filipinos live in areas with poor infrastructure facilities, they must pay more to access economic opportunities or participate in economic activities.

Martinez also said poor households do not have many of the conveniences of affluent households such as access to cheap electricity and appliances like refrigerators, which affect the products they consume and their ability to purchase goods in bulk.

H e said expensive electricity prompts poor households to resort to buying coal, firewood, and other forms of biomass which often are more expensive for them. One example, he said, was kerosene, which other studies found is more expensive for poor people.

Payday lenders

THE limited finances of poor households make them prey to “payday lenders” who often charge exorbitant interest rates, Martinez also said. This eventually exacerbates the dire financial position of these households and sinks them deeper into debt and poverty.

“Other examples alluded to in the report include how geographic location may make goods and services more expensive in some areas

SURGE OF CHEAP PAPER IMPORTS LEADS LOCALS TO SHUT DOWN OPS

where there are large pockets of poverty. These inequalities need to be addressed if we are aiming to meet SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) 1 by 2030,” Martinez told this newspaper.

M artinez said lower-income households experienced faster inflation over the past decade in the Philippines, Hong Kong and Taipei.

I n July, the inflation experienced by all households nationwide reached 4.7 percent but for the Bottom 30 percent, inflation was higher at 5.2 percent.

Even when inflation peaked at 8.7 percent among all households in January this year, the increase in prices experienced by the poorest Filipinos was higher at 9.7 percent.

B ased on the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the Bottom 30 percent of households showed they spend more on food as well as electricity, gas and other fuels.

T he PSA data showed 51.38 percent of Filipinos’ income is spent on food alone while 10.11 percent on electricity, gas and other fuels. This represents the weight of these commodities in the CPI for the Bottom 30 percent.

Continued on A12

ALAWMAKER urged the government to look into the influx of paper being imported into the country by traders at “undervalued” prices, as well as the possible violation of anti-dumping measures, saying these have prompted local paper manufacturers to conduct unscheduled shutdowns of operations for the past two years.

A t the Budget briefing of the House Committee on Appropriation for the FY 2024 Proposed Budget for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on Thursday, House Deputy Majority Leader Jose Teves Jr. cited a paper manufacturing association which said that the rate of importation of paper increased in the first half of 2023.

Most imports of recycled container boards rose 35 percent while writing and printing paper increased 5 percent; for tissue and sanitary paper, it was 30 percent, Teves said.

Teves urged the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to look into the local paper manufacturing industry’s plea. He said the local paper manufac -

turing industry has over P55 billion worth of investments with 22 local paper manufacturing companies in the country.

For instance, the lawmaker said the price of imported corrugated medium paper is US$390 per ton, while it costs around US$450 or US$480 per ton in other countries of origin like Vietnam and China.

“ Isn’t this a clear violation of anti-dumping because this is being imported into the country at a lower price compared to the countries where the paper originates?” Teves said.

T he lawmaker reported that the surge in importation of paper has prompted local producers to conduct unscheduled shutdowns of operations.

“ If these shutdowns remain, this could result in massive layoffs of thousands of employees of paper manufacturers because of losses,” Teves warned. T he industry, he reminded everyone, allows Filipinos to have their supply of paper for schools and offices, cartons for packaging, tissue papers and other paper products.

Continued on A12

PHL hotel rates, airfare ‘competitive’ with Asean neighbors, says HSMA

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo @akosistellaBM Special to the BusinessMirror

PHILIPPINE hotel rates and airfare continue to be on a par with other countries in Southeast Asia, and should not be cited as a reason for why Filipinos are supposedly traveling overseas more instead of domestically.

Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) president Loleth So told the BusinessMirror, “Hotel rates remain competitive; we do not think that [local] hotel and airline rates are the reason for Filipinos to travel overseas. We think that because travel restrictions have been eased and lifted, after being cooped up in the country for three tears, the desire to travel abroad has greatly increased.”

She noted there was strong domestic tourists’ traffic  “specifically to Cebu, Bohol, Palawan, Davao and Boracay.” She was reacting to a lawmaker’s claim that the cost of airfare between nearby cities is more expensive than flying three hours away to Hong Kong or Singapore, and that local hotel rates cost more than double compared to the hotel rates in those cities. (See, “Pinoys prefer travel abroad; high airfare, hotel rates cited,” in the BusinessMirror , August 18, 2023.)

Challenges to growth

SO does admit, however, to continued challenges in the growth of the tourism industry, specifically their sector. “Our challenge at the moment is availability of flights. Because right now, especially to the destinations, even to Metro Manila, it’s pretty tough to get the plane seat, the time and the date mainly because other countries are also opening globally. Based on our meetings with the airlines they [are experiencing] a shortage of aircraft. So obviously, we’re (hotels) affected,” she told reporters on the sidelines of HSMA’s general membership meeting on Thursday.

She cited as an example Boracay, when it used have have “five flights a day, but now that they’re growing [in tourist numbers, they only have] two to three flights a day….Apart from that, airfares have increased also. But you really cannot blame the airlines because everybody’s trying to recover years of losses. So we just really have to partner with them.”

T he HSMA executive also cited rising fuel prices as impacting hotels’ cost of operations, as among their sector’s challenges. “You know, when fuel prices hike up, it’s a domino principle… everything [rises], even our operating expense obviously. Because we also rely on

fuel, on raw materials, etc.”

September hotel deals

STILL , the hotel accommodations sector remains confident that growth will continue, especially as the country approaches the “high season,” when bookings for stays and events increase toward the Christmas season. In general, “I would say that the  hospitality industry is breathing better now compared to the pandemic. So we’re very hopeful that approaching the festive season, the Christmas holidays, it’s even going to look better than the previous years because there are no [more Covid] restrictions.”

A t the HSMA meeting, the group also launched their annual September Online Sales, offering a “safe and secure online selling platform for consumers looking for rare discounts and deals on hotel rooms, restaurant outlets, social banguets, corporate meetings, hotel gym memberships, and other hospitality products and services.”

T he month-long event—from September 1 to 30, 2023—carries the theme “Eat.Stay.Love. The Joys of Travel,” and will include offers from 91 participating HSMA-member hotels across the country. The deals may be accessed via   www. hsma.org.ph/sos

PHL fine with Japan release of radioactive water to ocean

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome @maloutalosig

MANILA is not protesting Tokyo’s controversial release of radioactive wastewater from its Fukushima nuclear power plant.

T he Department of Foreign Affairs said it defers to the opinion of the United Nations’ agency in charge of nuclear cooperation, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

O n Thursday 1pm local time, Japan’s Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco) started discharging

purified and treated water stored at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station into the sea.

A ccording to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the tritium, the radioactive material present in the Fukushima waste, has been been significantly diluted with seawater. The tritium concentration after dilution is less than 1/40 of the safety standard (or 1/7 of the WHO drinking water standard).

T he Vienna-based organization also sent independent on-site inspectors and confirmed that the tritium concentration that is being

discharged Thursday is “far below the operational limit of 1,500 becquerels per liter.”

“ The Philippines continues to look at this issue from a science- and fact-based perspective and its impact on the waters in the region. As a coastal and archipelagic State, the Philippines attaches utmost priority to the protection and preservation of the marine environment.

The Philippines recognizes the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) technical expertise on this matter,” DFA spokesperson Teresa Daza said in a message to reporters.

SMALL purchases, bad roads, and low access to credit are among the factors that make poverty expensive in the Philippines and in other countries in the Asia and the Pacific region, according to the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Companies

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Friday, August 25, 2023

PNOC EC, Nido Petroleum in talks over Cadlao drilling

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

“We are already in advanced discussions to participate in SC [service contract] 6B Cadlao field with drilling scheduled this year and production next year,” said PnoC eC Planning and Budget Supervisor a lexis De l a torre during a Senate hearing.

a u stralian-based energy firm Sacgasco ltd., through its whollyowned subsidiary, nido Petroleum Philippines Pty. ltd. (nido), has accepted a l etter of Intent from PnoC

eC for its farmin to SC 6B, including the drilling of Cadlao 4 well and an ex tended Well test (eW t ) as the first stage of redevelopment of the Cadlao oil field.

t he redevelopment targets 6.2 million barrels of economically recoverable oil.

Under the farmin agreement, PnoC eC will acquire from nido a 20-percent participating interest in SC 6B for the drilling and eW t of

the Cadlao 4 well. t he farmin agreement to SC 6B will be subject to the approval of the Department of energy (Doe), and the usual respective board and joint venture approvals.

Sacgasco managing Director gary Jeffery said the Philippine government is supportive of the company’s activities, and the local community and that the Doe has shown its support for early drilling offshore Palawan.

t his is just one of a number of projects we are pursuing offshore the Philippines. We have had extensive discussions with suppliers and have identified suitable equipment for an extended well test which if positive and confirms our modeling, will likely lead to a more comprehensive development of Cadlao oi l field and exploration of the nearby Cadlao east Prospect.

ot her prospects in the area can

also then be pursued and incorporated into the production operations for the Cadlao oi lfield,” he said in a statement.

l a st January, nido Petroleum said it may spend up to $32 million to develop three to four wells.

In a filing with the environment department’s e n vironmental m a nagement Bureau, n i do Petroleum said the estimated capital expenditure for a development plan for the Cadlao field is at $8 million per well.

Cadlao is an old oil field that was last produced in the early 1990s with over 11 million barrels. t he technical operatorship of this oil field was assigned to nido Petroleum from the Philodrill in February 2022 to fund the development costs, which include drilling, extended well tests, and subsequent development of the said oil field.

SMC sells ₧13-B preferred shares

By VG Cabuag @villygc

Conglomerate San miguel Corp. (SmC) has raised P13 billion from the issuance of Series 2-m preferred shares through private placement.

t he company said in its disclosure that it sold 173.33 million in cumulative, nonvoting, nonparticipating, nonconvertible, redeemable, pesodenominated preferred shares, with a par value of P5 per share and at an offer price of P75 per share.

“ t he proceeds from the private

placement, amounting to approximately P13 billion, will be used for general corporate purposes.”

t he series 2-m preferred shares are expected to be listed on the main board of the Philippine Stock exchange on august 29.

San miguel said earlier its income in the first half rose by 18 percent to P23.3 billion from the previous year’s P19.8 billion, driven by the sustained performance improvements across its units.

Consolidated revenues were down 4 percent to P685.2 billion from the previous year’s P711.41 billion, as

fuel subsidiary Petron Corp. continued to grapple with declining crude oil prices while San miguel global Power contended with lower volumes.

“We’re greatly encouraged by the sustained growth we are seeing across most of our businesses. While there are challenges, we’re confident in the programs we have put in place to address them,” San m i guel President and C e o r a mon S. a n g said.

“We are also keeping our focus on executing on our projects, implementing our growth strategies, and

providing our customers the highquality service they expect from San miguel.” San miguel Food and Beverage Inc.’s income was flat at P18.8 billion compared with the previous year’s P18.75 billion.

Petron’s net income fell 20 percent to P6.14 billion from the previous year’s P7.7 billion. net sales fell 8 percent to P367.03 billion from the previous year’s P398.51 billion.

Sales of the Philippine and mal aysian operations grew 16 percent and 7 percent, respectively.

Eternal Chapels celebrates blessing, inauguration of Cabanatuan branch

SynoPS yS Inc., a US company that makes software for designing semiconductors, said it has completed its acquisition of closely held german software company Piketec gmbH, strengthening its autonomous driving operations.

Piketec is valued in the transaction at more than $200 million, Bloomberg ne ws reported before Synopsys announced the deal Wednesday. Without disclosing the terms, Synopsys said in a statement that they were “not material” to its financials.

Piketec, owned by the german private equity firm eCm equity Capital management, makes testing and verification of automotive software for control unit systems. a s the automotive industry evolves towards software-defined vehicles, so does the need for more efficient and effective software testing methods,” Piketec Chief executive of ficer Jens lüdemann said in the statement.

Shares of mountain View, California-based Synopsys rose 2.7 percent to $448.24 in new york trading Wednesday, giving the company a market value of $68 billion.

Synopsys is one of the two major electronic design automation companies serving the semiconductor market and competes with Cadence Design Systems Inc. Bloomberg News

Eternal Chapels, a provider of complete mortuary and chapel services, celebrated the blessing and inauguration of its fifth branch.

t he ceremony took place on august 18, 2023, at Brgy. San Juan accfa, ma harlika Highway, Cabanatuan City.

t he program began with a thanksgiving mass, followed by the blessing of the building officiated by rev. Fr. reynold H. ol iveros, the parish priest of St. nicholas de tolentino Parish.

Distinguished guests, including company executives and officers led by Chairman and Chief executive of ficer D. edgard a Cabangon, attended the occasion.

r e flecting on the company’s journey, Chairman and C e o D. e d gard a C abangon stated, “a s we celebrate the inauguration of et ernal Chapels’ fifth branch, we look back at the path that has brought us to this event.

t he visionary founder of the et ernal group, my father a m b. a ntonio l C abangon Chua, laid the foundation

of our mission with a commitment to compassion and dedicated service.

t h is legacy continues to guide us and has led us to establish et ernal Chapels, completing the comprehensive circle of memorial services offered by the et ernal group to the communities we are privileged to serve.”

Vice Chairman Benjamin V. r a mos expressed gratitude and reminisced, saying, “ t he trust placed in eternal gardens by the people of this city when we first opened in 2004 remains a constant source of inspiration. your support and confidence have been the driving force for us to open eternal Chapels here, to better serve you.”

e t ernal Chapels Cabanatuan stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to providing unparalleled memorial services. Boasting four elegantly designed viewing chapels, each equipped with a family room, pantry, and modern restroom facilities, the chapels cater to gatherings of varying sizes. t he chapels are fully air-

conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi access to accommodate the needs of guests.

tr ue to its dedication to excellence, e t ernal Chapels Cabanatuan features state-of-the-art mortuary facilities and employs licensed professional embalmers with expertise in the latest and most advanced embalming techniques. t h is commitment aligns with the company’s mission to provide Filipinos with exceptional mortuary and chapel services during times of grief.

e t ernal Chapels also operates branches in Cagayan de oro City (Bulua and Plaza Divisoria), naga City, and Cabuyao City, contributing to its network of quality memorial services. t he company is poised to further expand its reach with an upcoming chapel in Batangas City later this year.

eternal Chapels and eternal ga rdens are integral parts of the a lC group of Companies, a legacy established by the late a mbassador a ntonio l Cabangon Chua.

B1

FLI breaks ground on new industrial park in Laguna

Got I a n U n -le D property developer Filinvest l a nd Inc. (FlI) on t hursday said it broke ground on the 25-hectare Filinvest Innovation Park-Ciudad de Calamba (FIP-CDC) in Calamba City’s Barangay Bubuyan.

o f ficials of the Calamba City government, Barangays Punta and Bubuyan, and the Philippine economic Zone authority (Peza) attended the event, according the company.

t he FIP-CDC is an expansion of FlI’s 50-hectare Filinvest technology Park, an ecozone established in 2002 in Ciudad de Calamba, a 350-hectare modern Filipino Hispanic Filinvest townscape.

t he FIP CDC joins FIP new Clark City in Capas, tarlac as FlI’s commitment to catalyze the country’s economic growth through its strategically located innovation parks, the company said.

“FIP-CDC marks a significant step forward for FlI as we expand our industrial presence in the Southern tagalog region,” tr istan las marias, the company’s president and Ceo said.

“With its cutting-edge green and digital features, FIP-CDC will offer a prime environment for logistics,

e-commerce, and light manufacturing locators. We are proud to provide a platform that not only supports businesses but also contributes to the growth of the local economy.”

Upon its completion, FIP-CDC will lease out ready-built factory and built-to-suit units catering to prospective locators’ varying requirements.

t he FIP-CDC’s ready-built factories are envisioned to meet prime warehouse specifications, such as higher ceiling clearance and floor load capacity, elevated production floors with loading docks, and superior utilities infrastructure support, including access to high-speed Internet and fire detection and suppression. It will also have provisions for rooftop solar panels and rainwater harvesting.

t he first two ready-built factories will be completed by end-2023, while further land development of FIP-CDC lots will be completed by mid-2024.

t he entire FIP-CDC is a Pezaregistered ecozone, allowing locators to enjoy tax perks, simplified trade procedures, and special visa privileges for foreign employees. VG Cabuag

Boe I ng Co. discovered that its largest supplier improperly drilled holes in a component that helps maintain cabin pressure of the 737 m a x jet, threatening to derail delivery targets for its best-selling model.

t h e latest issue for Boeing’s cash-cow jet isn’t a safety threat, the Federal av iation a d ministration said Wednesday. But it’s another complication for Boeing as it speeds the manufacturing pace of the 737 family while dealing with supply-chain strains and the aftermath of a strike at Spirit a e roSystems Holdings Inc., the supplier that builds about 70 percent of the narrowbody jet frames.

“During factory inspections, we identified fastener holes that did not conform to our specifications in the aft pressure bulkhead on certain 737 airplanes,” Boeing said via email Wednesday. t he inspections have uncovered hundreds of misaligned and duplicated holes in some aircraft, according to a report by t he a i r Current.

Boeing shares fell as much as 4.2 percent in after-hours trading on reports of the new m a x issue. t he stock had gained 20 percent this year through Wednesday’s close as demand surges for travel and new jetliners.

t he manufacturing glitch will cause some near-term 737 delivery delays, including snarling a plane going to the m a laysian a i rline System, as Boeing conducts

inspections and determines how many models were affected and what work they need, according to the company. Boeing is evaluating whether it will be able to reach its target of delivering 400 to 450 of the 737-family jets this year.

t he uncertainty underscores the strain on planemakers Boeing and a i rbus, and their global network of suppliers, as they accelerate manufacturing while contending with parts shortages and workforce turnover. Boeing and Spirit had only recently emerged from an earlier disruption to the 737 involving brackets in vertical tail fins.

t he latest problem caps a troubled history for the 737 m a x. t he jet was grounded by regulators worldwide after deadly crashes in Indonesia and ethiopia in 2018 and 2019, which killed the hundreds of passengers on board. a 20-month span followed during which lawmakers and others denounced the company’s safety culture, leading to billions of dollars in lost sales and other costs. t he model’s flight prohibition order was lifted in november 2020 in the US after Boeing made a series of software upgrades and training changes. o t her nations then variously followed.

Boeing is still delivering ma x as it grapples with the latest supplier headache, which affects some ma x 8 models. Spirit uses multiple suppliers for the affected part, known as the aft pressure bulkhead, and not every unit was impacted. Bloomberg News

The inauguration of eternal Chapels Cabanatuan is led by the eternal Chapels executive officers. In the first row from left to right: Operations executive Dannica Nicole A. Cabangon, Treasurer D. Antoinette

Solon eyes tax cuts in dividends, stock trade

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

HOUSE Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Ma.

Jose Clemente “Joey” S. Salceda has filed House Bill (HB) 8958 to reduce taxes on stock transactions and on dividends of foreign non-residents.

In a statement, Salceda said the proposal he filed last Wednesday also imposes a tax on debt instruments of 0.1 percent, in parity with the reduced rate for stock transactions.

Salceda said the measure is in line with the instruction of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to enact measures to boost the capital markets.

According to Salceda, the bill “is part of an entire package of both legislative and administrative reforms” that were discussed during a meeting between the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Investment and Economic Affairs and stakeholders. He said the latter included representatives from the Department of Finance, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).

Salceda said the meeting also tackled recommendations “for improving the overall liquidity of the Philippine stock market.”

The lawmaker added that he filed the measure “so that the discussion can be simpler and faster” than the Passive Income and Financial Intermediaries Taxation Act (Pifita), “which might be too comprehensive and broad-ranging that time might not be on our side.”

HB 8958 (Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act) seeks: the reduction of the stock-transaction tax from 0.6 percent to 0.1 percent; the imposition of the debt transaction tax of 0.1 percent, except for government securities; and, the reduction of the dividend tax to non-resident

DBP lends P900M to Cebu realtor

aliens from 25 percent to 10 percent to harmonize the cash and property dividend rates.

Slow moving

THE lawmaker said that the stocktransaction tax remains the highest in the Asean region. This tax, Salceda added, is driving up transaction costs in the stock market, “resulting in a slow-moving stock market with few participants.”

The PSE has the fewest listed companies of all Asean-6 economies, with just 275 listed companies; the second-lowest being Singapore with some 640 listed companies, Salceda explained.

“Since the stock transaction tax was increased from 0.5 percent to 0.6 percent of transaction value in 2019, the PSE index has declined by 29.83 percent,” he said.

“This is bad for the country’s pension and health insurance systems because the Social Security System and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. charters have strict investment policies that limit their equities exposure almost exclusively to Philippine index stocks. If stocks don’t move in value, these funds also stagnate,” he added.

Salceda said the high rate of tax on dividends received by foreign nonresident individuals also discourages foreign investors from buying Philippine stocks, which, in turn, prevents price discovery.

“As a result, Philippine stocks stagnate in value. In fact, monthly transaction volume continues to be lower than 2012 levels in peso terms. In dollar terms, it matches 2007 levels,” he said.

Salceda said that while the reform will result in a revenue loss of P9.825 billion, it could increase pension assets in the SSS and GSIS alone by at least P72.9 billion.

The solon said that the House tax panel will discuss the measure once the budget is approved on the floor, at the latest.

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

STATE-run Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) said it approved a P900-million loan application of a Cebu-based real estate developer Johndorf Ventures Corp. (JVC).

DBP President and CEO Michael O. de Jesus said the bank provided financing support to JVC through the state lender’s housing-loan program it calls “Bahay.” The bank explained that JVC plans to build 39,000 hous-

ing units by 2025. “We are pleased to formalize this partnership to help boost the country’s housing sector,” de Jesus was quoted in a statement the lender issued last Thursday.

“This also serves as a testament to DBP’s goal of making inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and human settlements through responsive financing,” he added.

The DBP said JVC is a wholly Filipino-owned real estate developer operating in key cities in the Visayas and Mindanao regions and set to launch commercial-residential estates in Cebu, Davao and Cagayan de Oro.

De Jesus said the bank would provide JVC with the necessary credit assistance including working capital requirements for inventory build-up and construction of socialized, economic, and low-cost housing units.

The DBP official noted that the latest loan it provided to a real estate developer forms part of its goal to

release a total of P50 billion in loans until the end of the lender’s Bahay program in 2030.

The housing-loan program aims to support mass and mid-cost housing projects, horizontal and vertical developments, and various shelter types including houses and lots, duplexes, row houses, and condominiums, according to the DBP.

“[The] DBP looks forward to forging more partnerships that will help address the gaps in mass housing by providing short and long-term financing,” de Jesus said.

“We are confident that through this lending program, DBP will be able to further contribute towards the goal of building a sustainable and livable environment for the Filipino people,” he added.

GSIS bares achievements, discounts for PGA shows

STATE pension fund Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) announced it has received a P100,000-monetary incentive from the Anti-Red Tape Authority (Arta) for its exemplary performance under the Arta Report Card Survey (Arta-RCS).

A statement the GSIS issued last Wednesday read the pension fund has obtained the highest rating of 92.8 percent or “Very Satisfactory” (Silver Award) among 50 government agencies in the Arta-RCS in December 2022.

According to the GSIS, the Arta-RCS 2.0 is a joint project of the Civil Service Commission and the Philippine Statistics Authority. The project evaluates “the efficiency of a government agency in minimizing bureaucracy and optimizing service delivery.”

“We’re thankful to Arta for the Silver award. By leveraging technology, we aim to provide our members and pensioners with the utmost ‘ginhawa’ and convenience in their trans-

actions,” GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo A. Veloso was quoted in the statement as saying.

“We take pride that 95 percent of these are now online.”

Arta Director General Ernesto V. Perez was quoted in the statement as saying that the “monetary incentive is a reaffirmation of the Silver award that was given to GSIS last December.”

“May you continue to set the highest standards because the people deserve nothing less, and I hope that you will continue to support Arta in its endeavors,” Perez added.

Possible JV

THE GSIS also announced that Veloso met with key executives of Gallagher RE Gmbh for a possible joint venture.

Gallagher RE, formerly Willis RE Inc., a global reinsurance broking and advisory firm in the full service of global reinsurance division of Gallagher, is one of the world’s largest insurance brokerage, risk manage-

SBMA releases ₧203M to neighboring LGUs

By Henry Empeño

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT—The

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) announced last Thursday it issued revenue shares to neighboring local government units (LGUs) in the amount of P203 million, reflecting growing corporate taxes paid by Subic-registered investors that reached P207.65 million in the first half of this year.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Jonathan D. Tan formally turned over last Saturday the revenue shares to officials of the eight LGUs contiguous to and affected by the operations of the Subic Freeport.

The biggest share went to Olongapo City at P47.46 million followed by Subic, Zambales at P30.5 million. SBMA also issued shares to the following: Dinalupihan, Bataan, at P25.28 million; San Marcelino, Zambales, P24.38 million; Hermosa, Bataan, P21.7 million; Castillejos, Zambales, P18.5 million; San Antonio, Zambales, P17.27 million; and, Morong, Bataan, P17.9 million.

LGU shares are derived from 2 percent of the 5-percent corporate taxes paid by Subic Bay Freeport-registered enterprises in the previous semester and are meant to supplement development projects in health, education, peace and order and livelihood generation of local communities.

SBMA records indicated a growing trend in LGU shares, with bigger shares released in

the second half of the year. Thus, the SBMA gave away P123.1 million in January 2021 and P166.16 million in August that year; P140 million in January 2022 and P180.67 million in July 2022; and, P178.7 million in February 2023 before the P203 million doled out this month.

The LGU shares are determined according to population (50 percent), land area (25 percent) and equal sharing (25 percent) and are then released regularly in August, for taxes collected in the first semester and February the following year for secondsemester earnings.

In the same occasion, Tan briefed LGU officials of the projects his administration

intended to deliver in the next few years based on his “Jobs, Development and Tourism,” or “JDT,” program.

“These development projects will surely add value to the agency’ as it makes an effort to attract more investments; and with more investments, more jobs will be created not only for the residents of the neighboring towns of Subic, but also for the residents of neighboring provinces,” Tan said.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has recorded that poverty incidence among families in Bataan has risen to 5.7 percent in 2018 from only 0.8 percent in 2015.

The PSA also reported that 29.65 percent of individuals residing in Zambales were poor in 2021, “which translate to 192,610 poor individuals in the province.”

The PSA added that 1.88 percent of families residing in Zambales were not able to meet their basic food needs in 2021, “which translate to 12,232 food-poor families in the province.”

The SBMA chief asked officials of neighboring LGUs for their help and cooperation in promoting Subic to prospective investors.

“The more investments we get, the more jobs we create,” Tan said. “The more revenues we generate, the more shares the LGUs get.”

Pagcor gives OVP 1st tranche of ₧120-M grant

THE Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) announced it turned over the first tranche of a P120-million grant to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) amounting to P30 million during a simple ceremony held in Mandaluyong City last Wednesday.

A statement from Pagcor said Pagcor Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco and OVP Chief of Staff Atty. Zuleika T. Lopez signed on August 2 a Memorandum of

Agreement (MOA) formalizing the agency’s commitment to release a P120-million annual financial grant to the OVP.

The MOA signing was witnessed by Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, whose office requested supplemental funding from Pagcor “due to the numerous requests for financial assistance from its recently established satellite offices in different parts of the country,” Pagcor’s statement read.

The state gaming and regulatory firm,

represented by Senior Community Development Officer Ferdinand Marcos M. Amador II and Budget and Control Officer II Gerardo N. Hilario, handed the initial check to OVP Chief Collecting Officer Aniceta Puzon and Chief Accountant Julie Villadelrey.

Pagcor said the fund release is scheduled in four tranches or P30 million per quarter to support the OVP’s medical and burial assistance programs nationwide.

ment and consulting firms.

The company provides reinsurance advisory services including risk financing and structuring, risk quantification, execution, service, claims and communication, a statement from the GSIS read.

Show discounts

MEANWHILE, the GSIS announced also last Wednesday it would give its members and pensioners a 20-percent discount on all Performing Arts Groups (PAG) shows in the GSIS Theater until June 30, 2024.

In a statement, the GSIS said the discount was sealed after Veloso and the representatives of PAG signed the memorandum of agreement on August 18 at the GSIS Head Office in Pasay City.

“With the agreement, the GSIS aims to bring culture and arts closer to its members and pensioners through discounted tickets, while supporting PAG in their artistic pursuits. PAG is also granted access to GSIS Theater facilities, including

the lounge, rehearsal hall and grand pianos,” the statement read.

“Partnering with PAG reinforces our commitment to keeping Filipino culture vibrant,” Veloso was quoted in the statement as saying. “We are delighted to open our theater for their performances and urge our employees, members, pensioners and their families to support these shows.”

“We have striven for years on our own. That is why I am so heartened that a government institution has stepped up to the plate to support the performing arts,” Repertory Philippines Foundation Inc. President and CEO Margarita Barredo Perez-Rubio was quoted in the same statement as saying.

The PAG is the umbrella organization comprising Repertory Philippines, Ballet Philippines Foundation Inc., Manila Symphony Orchestra Foundation Inc., Tanghalang Pilipino Foundation Inc. and a group called “Popular Music Concerts.”

What associations can learn from the triage system

ONE of the terms I have learned during the pandemic was “triage,” which I repeatedly heard from news reports on hospital emergency rooms where patients are assessed based on the severity of their conditions, ensuring that the most critical cases receive immediate attention.

The term originated from military medicine and the battlefield. It is derived from the French word trier, which means “to sort” or “to select.” It was first introduced by Baron Dominique-Jean Larrey, a chief surgeon in Napoleon Bonaparte’s army, during the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century.

Over time, the concept of triage spread to civilian medical settings, particularly in response to mass casualty incidents and disasters. Associations can benefit from adopting a triage-like approach to efficiently prioritize tasks, allocate resources, and address urgent issues.

1. Prioritization is key. In a hospital emergency room, triage nurses quickly assess patients upon arrival, categorizing them based on the urgency of their medical needs. Associations can apply this concept, too, by prioritizing tasks and initiatives based on their significance and impact to members. By identifying and addressing critical issues first, associations can ensure their resources and efforts are directed where these are most needed, optimizing their ability to support their members effectively.

By prioritizing, associations can allocate resources, such as time, funding, and human resource more efficiently. This approach prevents valuable resources from being spread too thinly across various tasks and helps focus on the most crucial objectives, ultimately leading to more impactful outcomes.

2. Clear communication is essential. In a hospital triage, clear communication between triage nurses and medical staff is vital to ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care. Similarly, associations can emphasize transparent and effective communication channels among their members, leadership, and staff.

Regular updates on ongoing initiatives, upcoming events, and financial matters help keep members informed and involved. Effective communication also allows the association to gather valuable feedback and insights from their members, enhancing their ability to address their needs and concerns.

3. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial. In a hospital emergency room, situations can change rapidly, requiring the triage team to remain flexible and adaptable. Associations can also be prepared to adjust their plans and strategies as circumstances evolve. Whether they are responding to unexpected events or adjusting long-term goals, flexibility allows associations to stay agile and relevant, ultimately benefitting their members.

4. Empathy and compassion drive effective support. In hospital triage, nurses and medical staff approach patients with empathy and compassion, ensuring that even amidst urgency, patients feel cared for and supported. Associations can draw inspiration from this approach and prioritize member support with empathy and compassion. By genuinely understanding and addressing the needs and concerns of their members, associations can build stronger connections and foster a sense of community. Empathy enables associations to create relevant and impactful programs, services, and policies that truly serve the best interests of their members.

Adopting a triage-like approach allows associations to respond swiftly and efficiently to challenges, allocate resources effectively, and maintain strong connections with their members. Associations can enhance their ability to fulfill their missions and serve as valuable resources and support systems for their members.

Octavio Peralta is currently the executive director of the Global Compact Network Philippines and founder and volunteer CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives, the “association of associations.” PCAAE will hold its 11th Associations Summit at the

A life well lived

TODAY’S HOROSCOPE

IDON’T recall when and how exactly I met Toots Ople. But even before an actual introduction or meetup, I’ve already heard a lot about her advocacy in working with overseas Filipino workers. As a child growing up in the 1970s, her father’s name was one of those we would have to memorize, and recite aloud, as part of our Social Studies subject in St. Theresa’s: “Salvador ‘Blas’ Ople, Secretary of Labor” (or Foreign Affairs), and then recite the name of the next Cabinet Secretaries.

So I suppose it was not surprising that Toots, herself an alumna of St. Theresa’s before going to UST for her tertiary education, would follow in her father’s footsteps. She considered her father an inspiration throughout her life, and as president of the Blas Ople Policy Center, she tirelessly tended to our kababayan, who sought greener pastures abroad.

In every administration as far as I can remember, Toots’ voice always rang out. She was everywhere being interviewed on camera or testifying at hearings of lawmakers whenever an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) had been maimed or perished by the hand of his or her employer. She was always there fighting that the injured or dead OFW and his family receive the justice they deserve, or working to free them from whatever jail they had unjustly landed in.

I voted for Toots when she ran for Senate in 2016, but unfortunately, she didn’t make the cut. That didn’t stop her as she quickly resumed her work at the policy center, helping distressed OFWs. She had a radio show and wrote a column in this paper (“Scribbles”), where she shared more thoughts on how government could further protect OFWs, pushed the creation of the agency she would soon later head, or lamented the plight of cancer patients in the country.

When Toots (“Don’t call me Susan,” she once said on Facebook) was appointed as Secretary of the newly created Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) by President Marcos Jr., her life had come full circle. Although she already served as Labor Undersecretary under President Macapagal-Arroyo, her appointment by Marcos Jr. was serendipitous; it was like the government agency and position was created specifically for her and her skills. Of course, it was also not without trepidation that she would take on this role as she had been a breast cancer survivor. On Facebook, she would often update us of her checkups and medical procedures. Many of us prayed that she was well enough to take on the challenge of creating a new agency out of thin air, with not even a budget to speak of. But Toots knew that so many of our kababayan were counting on her, and this

appointment was the culmination of her life’s work. So she soldiered on. It helped that she had trusted people around her to carry the load at the new agency. Even if Toots and I didn’t see each other, we would communicate regularly via Facebook. It was usually about me informing her of another OFW who was in trouble, or asking if the Department of Foreign Affairs was already helping out in some case of abuse that had again hit the headlines. She would also comment about some travel or lifestyle piece I had written, once asking for tips on what to do and where to eat in Jakarta after I just come back from a visit. Of course, there was also some bits of gossip traded especially about our “favorite” politicians or political operators.

I was supposed to interview Toots for a profile piece after her appointment, but we never did get around to having lunch with our common friend (you know who you are!) as life got extremely busy for her, quite understandably. Our last exchange was right before last Christmas as I solicited a piece

on her favorite Christmas movie for this space. (It was Sleepless in Seattle, she said. Even if it wasn’t technically a Christmas movie, it was a favorite film she would watch during the Yuletide season and confessed to being a Nora Ephron/Tom HanksMeg Ryan fan. I must admit all these loving feels do bubble to the surface during Christmas.)

After attending the President’s State of the Nation Address, Toots went on leave to care for herself. I understand that she had also been taking medication for her condition, and a friend thought that Toots might still be too ill to return to work. I assume that losing her two brothers in succession just recently added to the stress of her condition.

Yet after the initial shock of learning of Toots’ passing, came the immediate realization that in the short time that she led the DMW, she had accomplished so much. I remember her being interviewed via

Japan donates 300 metric tons of rice to families affected by Mt. Mayon eruption

JAPAN turned over 300 metric tons of rice to the families affected by the Mt. Mayon eruption under the framework of the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR).

A turnover ceremony was recently held at Camalig, Albay, led by Mr. NIHEI Daisuke, economic affairs minister of the Embassy of Japan. Officials from Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Agriculture, National Food Authority, APTERR Secretariat, and Albay Province graced the event.

According to the August 10 report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), a total of

9,876 families or about 38,961 persons from 26 barangays were seriously affected by the eruption. About 5,371 families are still reportedly staying in 27 evacuation centers, while 418 families are seeking shelters outside of the evacuation center.

Japan, as the biggest contributor of APTERR rice in the Philippines, has always been ready to lend a helping hand during trying times.

APTERR is a regional cooperation started in 2012, which aims to strengthen food security, poverty alleviation and malnourishment eradication among its member countries.

To accomplish its common goal, the APTERR

ACROSS 1 Starter dishes, for short

5 Note to all staff

9 Thicket

14 (I want Friskies!)

15 Dutch cheese

16 Nebraska’s largest city

17 Castaway’s place

18 Goodyear product

19 Strictness

20 Go into free fall (Note this

answer’s last 4 letters + 1 letter

above the block to the right + ...)

parties have agreed to establish rice stocks to assist member countries in times of large-scale natural disasters. In the Philippines, several thousand tons of stockpiled rice from Japan under APTERR were distributed to previous typhoon victims during Typhoon Yolanda in 2013, Typhoon Ineng in 2015, Typhoon Jenny in 2019, Typhoon Odette in 2022 to name a few. In 2020, Japan also provided 425 metric tons of rice to households affected by the Taal Volcano eruption; in 2021, pre-cooked rice was distributed to families affected by Covid-19 in Quezon City, the City of Manila, and selected parts of the provinces of Bulacan and Cavite.

what you start. Your lucky numbers are 5, 11, 20, 24, 33, 38, 41.

aARIES (March 21-April 19): Do something that boosts your confidence. Make plans with someone you love to hang out with, or sign up for something that interests you and is conducive to making new friends. Personal growth and physical improvement are favored. Make romance a priority. HHHHH

bTAURUS (April 20-May 20): Take your time, think and respond with grace and dignity. Don’t get involved in joint ventures, emotional spending or overindulgence. Honesty is favored; make your voice heard, and stand by your word. Set boundaries and protect your reputation. HHH

cGEMINI (May 21-June 20): Emotions will dictate how things unfold. Choose positive over negative, go about your business, and don’t believe everything you hear or react to what others do or say. The choice to have a great day by spending time with someone you love is yours. HHH

dCANCER (June 21-July 22): Know your budget before you agree to something unaffordable. Hidden costs and temptation will set you back. A responsible approach, your discipline and experience, coupled with a handpicked team you can depend on, will get you where you want to go. HHH

eLEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Do something you enjoy with someone you love. Stay within budget and make fond memories that don’t put you in debt or cause stress. A heart-to-heart talk will help establish plans that offer something to look forward to. HHHHH

fVIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Slow down, think matters through, pay attention to detail and don’t let your emotions cost you. Change can be good, but it must be under the right conditions and to your specifications. Don’t let anyone use tactics to manipulate your decision. HH

gLIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Take pressing matters into your hands and do whatever it takes to preserve the fundamentals that make your life easier. Maintenance will pay off and, over time, save you a bundle. A disciplined routine will ensure you get everything done on time. HHHH

hSCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Resolve emotional or physical issues swiftly and move on to matters that can bring about positive change. Be open to suggestions, but don’t give in to someone or something that doesn’t help you reach your objective. HHH

iSAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You’ll end up in a tight spot if your emotions dictate how you handle matters. Someone will offer false information to gain approval. Do your best to decide between fact and fiction. You’ll benefit most if you put your energy into self-improvement. HHH

jCAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You’ll gain access to information that can be beneficial if used properly. A networking function will offer insight into the value of your skills and knowledge and an opening that interests you. Practice integrity. HHH

kAQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Don’t sit on the fence; decide or someone will jump in and take over. Put a call in to an expert or someone you trust to offer sound advice, and carry on with confidence. Personal gain is apparent but will come at a cost. HHHH

lPISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Protect your possessions, and don’t let anyone goad you into something that benefits them more than you. It’s up to you to enforce changes conducive to getting what you want. A change of scenery will stimulate your mind. HH

BIRTHDAY BABY: You are playful, social and charitable. You are loving and proud.

‘pop-up books’ BY DYLAN SCHIFF

The

22 Affectedly polite (... this answer’s

first 4 letters)

24 Promotes heavily

25 Party with techno

26 Fencing option 29 “_ __ World” (“Sesame Street”

segment)

33 Held a grudge (Last 3 letters + 1

above the

Show BusinessMirror

Can the regions speak?

Last week, Saturday, on the 19th of August, 2023, I had the privilege of collaborating in a program with Nick Deocampo, the film historian noted for his trenchant use of theories in cinema. Our event was billed as an “Inter-view,” with a film critic like this writer posing as interlocutor for DeOcampo, as he expounded on his books.

Judge clears way for civil case to proceed against Alec Baldwin and ‘Rust’ producers

By Susan Montoya Bryan

The Associated Press

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.—A New Mexico judge on Wednesday rejected a request by Alec Baldwin ’s attorneys to dismiss a civil lawsuit by three Rust crew members who allege cost-cutting endangered the cast and crew as the actorproducer skipped his own safety training.

Chief District Judge Bryan Biedscheid also declined to delay proceedings despite arguments by Baldwin’s legal team that doing so would put their client at risk of self-incrimination since prosecutors have yet to decide whether to refile criminal charges against him over the fatal onset shooting of a cinematographer.

Attorney Robert Schwartz told the judge there would be nothing to prevent prosecutors from using evidence gleaned from discovery in the civil case against Baldwin in the criminal case, if charges are refiled. As an example, he pointed to any interpretation of Baldwin’s production contract and what authority he had over decision making.

Schwartz said the court is putting Baldwin in an “unfortunate position.”

“No protective order can protect him against that. It just can’t happen,” Schwartz said. “So what’s going to happen is Mr. Baldwin is going to assert his 5th Amendment rights and the plaintiffs are not going to get any discovery in the meantime.”

The judge disagreed, saying he would be mindful of Baldwin’s rights.

Prosecutors have been mum about when a decision will be announced, but in asking for the civil case to be delayed, Schwartz indicated Wednesday that it could some within the next few weeks.

Baldwin, a co-producer of the film, was pointing a gun at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during a rehearsal on the film’s set outside Santa Fe when the gun went off, killing her and wounding director Joel Souza.

The 2021 shooting resulted in a series of civil lawsuits centered on accusations that the defendants were lax with safety standards. The cases have including wrongful death claims filed by members of Hutchins’ family. Baldwin and other defendants have disputed accusations they were lax with safety standards.

T he plaintiffs in the case heard Wednesday say Baldwin and the other producers cut corners, ignored reports of multiple unscripted firearm discharges and rushed to finish the film while being understaffed. They also say they suffered mental anguish and emotional distress by witnessing the shooting.

Baldwin’s attorneys argue that none of the plaintiffs were physically injured and should not be allowed to recover any damages. They contend that gun safety was the responsibility of others—not Baldwin—and that his authority as a producer was limited to making suggestions on the script and casting.

A separate settlement to resolve allegations of workplace safety violations was finalized in March by New Mexico workplace safety regulators and Rust Movie Productions. Following its review, the state issued a scathing narrative of safety failures in violation of standard industry protocols, including testimony that production managers took limited or no action to address two misfires on set before the fatal shooting.

Regulators also documented gun-safety complaints from crew members that went unheeded and said weapons specialists were not allowed to make decisions about additional safety training.

In the arts, the critic is the only independent source of information. The rest is advertising.

—Pauline Kael

LAST week, my column “Annotations” on the Opinion page carried an essay titled “Knowing the independent, irresponsible critic.” Much to my surprise, the essay that I expected to create further furor became viral—positively viral—after three days, with it posting some 300+ views. I interpreted this response as a sign that the piece hit a bright, positive chord in the heart (and mind) of the readers, most of whom I assumed to be cineastes and/or students of films. Thus, this week, I decided to pursue the same theme—film criticism and its permutations.

Art criticism has definitely changed from the ancient times when Plato and Aristotle were the idols, the wellspring of thoughts about art. Notions like “civilizing elements” are no more important than the subverting traits that present-day arbiters of taste profess and employ.

Theories have come and gone, some even more complex and less accessible than the previous frameworks. There are times when the theorizing takes over the merely articulating, leaving the reader groping for the proper words to describe their puzzlement over art forms or their expressions that are in form and content already inaccessible. There are, however, times, when theories are enlightening.

Much as the film historian has done three books dealing with the periodization of Philippine cinema or cinema in the Philippines (two labels that are different from each other), I sort of opted to bring Nick to discuss his more complex achievement—the history of alternative cinema. We both agreed the need to do this because the landscape (or seascape and airscape) of cinema is so vast, we had to artificially find a delimitation. As with all good historicizing, Nick’s narrative of alternative cinema is an unfinished business. He has to write some more, problematize some more, if only to excavate from the years a form or forms that, this time, do not adhere to the traditional dating regular histories propose.

In his book of the same title, the film historian proposes and rightly so a violent recovery of cinema and their forms that have been banished (violently as well) because for a long time, we were focused on the so-called “national cinema” and the sequential growth of a technology that came to the country via colonization and conquest. More of this in the subsequent columns.

What I wanted to ask but did not get to was the implication of Deocampo’s “history” of alternative cinema in film criticism or film education.

How do we talk of influence when in the discussion of the history of Philippine cinema, we have been stuck in the singular persuasion of the word? We are wise to go further and confront histories of cinema in the rhizomatic sense of the notion. Deleuze and Guattari are the two theoreticians behind the theory, which indicates networks, ruptures, spurts of growth, the nonlinear trajectories of networks where points are connected to other points.

If this is the case, how can we talk of origins? How do we deal with the influences of the central to the peripheral when the two have different origins?

But this approach makes sense or crystallizes our understanding of “regional” cinema. While the “first” festival showing films from the region may have been held in Manila, regional films by the label belong to the regions—the peripherals. The idea of the central as the site for the founding fathers of a form that adheres to the non-central cannot be canonized any longer. The fact is there were films being produced already “out there,” which seduced the central to lure them to the “civilizing center.” But note the quotation marks enclosing the patronage of the capital, always accumulating at the center or the controlling location.

What we are witnessing is the old problem of the reproduction of relations—the oppression continues with the big city holding sway over the small towns or small festivals producing films that follow (should follow) the aesthetics of the establishment, the show business. And so what could have been the liberating act to come from the films from the margins, we see the control killing the art and subversion from below. Thus, the pitching, the funding, the ethnographic authority of the city-based cultural workers.

But there is the theory—the rhizome utilized by Deocampo. In the brief but encompassing interview filled with what the film historian described as “improper” language (he threatened the audience with the promise that all those attending shall disrobe at a certain point of his discourse), he celebrated the theory as having arrived to help him complete his articulation of a form evading regular historical approaches. It was as if a theory was waiting for the right time in the right hands of the good historian so that new narratives could be told.

From my end, I see Spivak’s concept of the subaltern being rehashed: Can the subaltern speak? Can those whose films have been marginalized because there is a power center that pushes all those out there further into the shadows be able to wield strength against the critics favoring the mainstream? Yes! They are, after all, not part of the main and are not subject to the kingdom of the capital. They are independent and are in need of independent film critics.

Writers blast studios for ‘lecture’ after strike proposals

THE Writers Guild of America fired back at the major media companies they have been negotiating a new contract with after the group representing the studios released details of its latest proposal.

T he screenwriters, who have been on strike since May 2, said a meeting Tuesday night with studio executives amounted to “a lecture about how good their single and only counteroffer was.”

The guild, in a statement posted on its website, said “this wasn’t a meeting to make a deal. This was a meeting to get us to cave.”

Carol Lombardini, president of the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers, which represents the studios, said in a separate statement Tuesday night, that her group’s goal is to end the strike.

“We have come to the table with an offer that meets the priority concerns the writers have expressed,” she said.

The dueling press releases are just the latest skirmish in a months-long work stoppage that has stalled film and TV show production across the entertainment industry. The Screen Actors Guild, seeking similar changes in its new contract, has been on strike since July.

T he studios proposed increasing the salary for writers, protections against the use of artificial intelligence and sending the writers’ union

quarterly reports disclosing viewership for series. Bloomberg reported many of the details of the offer last week.

Studio Proposals:

n A 5 percent increase in base wages in year one n Sharing monthly viewer data for shows on streaming services on a confidential basis with the union n Writer’s compensation and credits will not be affected by the use of artificial intelligence n Guarantee 20 weeks of work for at least two mid-level writers per show. A minimum of 10 weeks of work for shows in development Chief executive officers of major media companies have gotten more involved in the negotiations in recent weeks, hoping to bring the dispute that has lasted all summer to an end.

A group of CEOs, including Walt Disney Co.’s Bob Iger, Netflix Inc.’s Ted Sarandos and Warner Bros Discovery Inc.’s David Zaslav met with the leadership of the writers guild on Tuesday.

T he guild and the studios have continued to meet since the studios proposed the new deal earlier this month. But the two sides have yet to resolve all their disagreements. The writers are still pushing for the studios to staff a mandatory number of writers on every show and pay them additional money based on the

popularity of their work.

We explained all the ways in which their counter’s limitations and loopholes and omissions failed to sufficiently protect writers from the existential threats that caused us to strike in the first place,” the guild said in its statement. “We told them that a strike has a price, and that price is an answer to all–and not just some–of the problems they have created in the business.” Bloomberg

Catch the JFF+ Independent Cinema 2023 online

THE Japan Foundation launched a special program called JFF+ Independent Cinema 2023, a specially curated showcase of 12 independent Japanese films.

The films will be available to stream for free online at the JFF+ website (https://jff.jpf.go.jp/watch/ic2023/ ).

The lineup includes films recommended by

A life well lived

mobile phone camera while she was in Egypt, where she and her team were preparing to receive Filipinos evacuating from war-torn Sudan. One of her projects was for DMW to help OFWs build their own homes through government’s housing program.

Just in July, she had announced the digitalization of the overseas employment certificate, which OFWs routinely have to line up for and secure before departing the Philippines. It is one of the perennial hoops our migrant workers have had to jump through just to return to their jobs in their host countries. (I’ve often wondered why, for all the hoopla every administration makes over our bagong bayani, they are the sector government always seems to abuse or neglect a lot.)

independent mini theaters throughout Japan, international film critics and film festival directors. The participating independent mini theaters hold a special role within the community, from Cinema Iris in Hokkaido to the Sakurazaka Theater in Okinawa.

The program aims to shed light on the

Continued from B4

Toots was the ideal Cabinet Secretary. She had the right credentials and a proven track record, and heading the DMW was just a continuation of her life of service to fellow Filipinos. She didn’t implement projects to pump up her own ego, and wasn’t one to impress others with her brilliance with a selfish plan to run for higher office. She was calm and uncomplaining even when another Cabinet Secretary stole her idea for a project. She remained honest and humble, and just did the work.

Toots was simple in her ways and was happy relaxing in her bahay kubo in Hagonoy, bonding with her family, or playing with her dogs. (She did rue that her work at DMW kept her away from it.) And while she advocated for the rights of others, she was quite

independent mini theaters that support the cinema culture of Japan. Together, these will introduce the current state of cinema culture and regional culture in Japan from multiple angles.

JFF+ Independent Cinema is organized by the Japan Foundation and will run until October 31, 2023.

PHOTO from Bloomberg

shy and wasn’t one to request any personal favors. When I saw on FB that she was at an event with their mayor, I asked Toots if she had asked if he had any booster shots left that she could get for herself. She said she did not. Hay naku!

Toots’ passing is a tremendous loss for the Marcos administration and for the OFWs who have come to depend on her to care for their needs. We can only hope that her colleagues continue to take inspiration from her servant-leader qualities and keep advocating for the rights of our migrant workers. Our deepest condolences to Estelle, Fort, and the rest of the Ople clan, and to the DMW family. It was a privilege to have known you, Toots. Godspeed!

Get Fast Home Loan Deals at Vista Residences’ Bankathon 2023

Assure ® Diapers thanks Indonesian Embassy for heartwarming support at recent trade fair

ASSURE ® Diapers, a brand trusted by parents for its unwavering dedication to baby care, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Indonesian Embassy in the Philippines. Their steadfast support and warm invitation paved the way for the brand’s participation in the fourday Trade Fair held from August 18 to 21, 2023, at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia (SM MOA).

This event coincided with Indonesia's 78th Independence Day celebrations, adding a special layer of significance to the occasion. Organized by AQA event planner, the fair showcased a captivating array of well-known and quality products from Indonesia.

Elevating the trade fair's prestige were the presence of Ambassadors and distinguished Trade officials representing various ASEAN member nations. Their participation underscored the spirit of camaraderie between nations, infusing the event with a sense of unity and shared purpose. The guests took time to explore the Assure ® Diapers booth.

The Assure ® Diapers booth became a haven

of positivity and joy, as parents and caretakers gathered with their precious little ones. Their heartfelt stories flowed, illustrating how Assure ® Diapers had evolved into a haven of comfort, protection, and happiness for their babies. The smiles on the faces of both parents and children served as an authentic testament to the unwavering reliability and quality of Assure ® Diapers' products.

A standout moment occurred as parents' smiles intertwined with the giggles emanating from the little ones – a heartwarming exchange that resembled high-fives sent directly from these happy families to us!

Mommy Vlogger IIsha Borromeo shares her back to school #GcashToSchool Shopping Tips

WHILE recent years saw a considerable number of Filipinos moving to the suburbs, a vast number have chosen to stay in the metro, close to their workplaces and to the urban lifestyle they are accustomed to. Certified cityfolk—corporate denizens and those in manufacturing, retail, and services— want mobility and access to shopping malls, entertainment centers, premier schools and universities, and medical facilities.

This revitalized market is in the crosshairs of property developers with residential condo projects near or within the business and commercial districts of Makati, Taguig, Mandaluyong, Manila, Pasig, and Quezon City.

Leading the charge is Vista Residences, a condominium developer of Vista Land & Lifescapes Inc. As the Philippines’ most trusted integrated property developer, Vista Land ensures that both existing and forthcoming VRI projects are in premier and growth sites nationwide.

“Vista Residences is in the wish list of home seekers whose highly mobile lifestyles would benefit from its close proximity to key destinations,” says Teresa Tumbaga, Division Head of Vista Residences, adding that “our posh condominiums feature upscale amenities and recreational facilities that project a living experience designed with utmost leisure in mind.”

Even as Vista Residences rolled out its well-designed modern homes in Metro-Manila, it urged aspiring condo dwellers who joined the Villar Group’s Bankathon 2023 last August 16 and 17 at Vista Shaw, Mandaluyong – Function Hall, an event that aimed to make homeownership a dream come true.

The game-changing initiative brought together prospective home buyers, bank loan officers, and VRI’s partner banks— and got the former on a quick path to their coveted Vista property through pre-approved bank financing.

“Convenience and access are a priority of our market, which gives them more reason to check out the Villar Group’s

Bankathon,” Tumbaga points out. “We assure aspiring Vista homeowners that they will get the best home loan deals at the Bankathon, including a streamlined application process.”

Participated in this centerpiece event are eight of the Philippines’ leading banks: BDO, RCBC, Unionbank, Security Bank, Chinabank Corp., AllBank, Maybank, and Bank of Commerce, whose collaborative efforts helped property seekers navigate different financial avenues and secure favorable interest rates.

For fast home loan deals, interested parties may simply submit the following requirements: two Valid IDs, birth/ marriage certificate, proof of billing, and at least one proof of Income, preferably a certificate of employment (COE) or latest payslip.

For those eager to embark on the journey towards homeownership, check out the Vista Residences website (www. vistaresidences.com.ph) and the Vista Residences official Facebook page (www. facebook.com/VistaResidencesOfficial)

Citicore Renewable chief awarded best CEO in Asia

OLIVER Y. Tan, President and CEO of Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation (CREC), was named the CEO of the Year in the recently concluded 18th Employer Branding Awards 2023.

Hosted and conducted by the Employer Branding Institute – India, the prestigious award ceremony held on August 17, 2023 in Singapore was attended by top companies throughout Asia.

As CEO of the Year, Tan is recognized for his contributions in leading CREC through its rapid and expansive growth in recent years. This leadership is embodied in the company’s current portfolio of 284 Megawatts of gross generating capacity from ten solar power facilities. He also led CREC in pioneering the Agro-Solar initiative in the country –planting vegetable crops alongside solar photovoltaic panels – providing income augmentation to the communities around its solar facilities.

In the same awarding ceremony, Citicore Renewable also bagged Asia’s Best Employer Brand Award 2023 as it was recognized for its exceptional HR practices, diversity and inclusion initiatives, employee training and development programs, and work-life balance policies. CREC is the first energy company in Asia to receive this prestige.

Tan, in his acceptance speech, highlighted CREC’s values of excellence,

REPRESENTING CREC during the conference is Human Resources Senior Manager Ms. Lalaine Rosales (center) and HR-Learning and Organization Junior Manager Mr. Ronald Mallari (right), together with Mr. R. L. Bahtia, Founder and Director of Employer Branding Institute (left). CREC is recognized for its exceptional HR practices, diversity and inclusion initiatives, employee training and development programs, and work-life balance policies. CREC is the first energy company in Asia to receive this prestige. innovation, teamwork, integrity, malasakit (welfare), and environmental stewardship as the cornerstone of the company’s continued growth and development.

“Citicore’s passion for excellence in pursuit of our organizational goals, innovative

thinking, and spirit of teamwork have been the bedrock upon which our success rests. As we stand shoulder to shoulder with industry giants, we recognize that this is not the pinnacle but a stepping stone to even greater horizons,” Tan said.

THE new school year is already in full swing and with it comes the excitement of back-to-school shopping for new supplies, gadgets, and even outfits. Balancing these expenses can be a challenge, but this year, GCash is your ultimate ally in ensuring you score all the best deals at unbeatable prices – all while giving you the chance to win big through its Back-To-School promo with daily chances to win P10,000.

When you #GCashToSchool, you can discover all the ways you can save more and win big! Simply shop and Scan to Pay or Buy Now, Pay Later with GCash through GGives or GCredit, and get the chance to spin the #LuckyQR on the app to be one of 10 winners daily of the P10,000 daily prize.

One of the best ways to make sure you kids are all set with everything they need for school is to take note of these tips from experts who have navigated the back-toschool season for more than just a couple of years, like mommy vlogger and content creator Isha Borromeo. Here, she shares five tips to help you.

1. Look through what you already have at home

The best starting point to your back-toschool shopping is to “shop” in your own homes first! Often, items from the previous school year, like pencil cases, scissors, and protractors, can still serve their purpose if they’re in good condition.

Before stepping into any store, whether online or physical, take stock of what you already have and you might just realize you have a treasure trove of supplies your kids can use!

2. Set a budget for your back-to-school shopping

FOR when you really have to go to the mall to purchase brand new items, it’s important to set a budget and to stick to it. One of the best ways to do this is to divide your list into two categories: needs and wants. For example, a brand-new pencil case isn’t an immediate necessity if the old one still works!

3. Always opt for high quality supplies and gadgets

THROUGHOUT your back-to-school season shopping, durability should always be a key consideration. It might be tempting to buy

what’s shiny and new, but it’s always wiser to opt for well-made quality items like backpacks, water bottles, lunch kits, and even gadgets from trusted brands that are known for their products’ durability. It may be a bigger investment to purchase higher quality supplies, but they’re also more likely to last longer than one school year, saving you money in the long run.

4. Buy what you can in bulk

The strategy of buying in bulk offers a double benefit: cost savings and convenience. Some items to consider buying in bulk includes pens, pencils, notebooks, folders, and other office essentials – you’ll never know when your kids are suddenly going to need extra supplies, or replacements for lost items, so it’s always wiser to be one step ahead and have everything you need at home.

“It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the amount of things you need to buy, but the truth is, you can actually find great deals for bulk purchases that’ll last you the full year!” Mommy Isha shares. “Having a stock of supplies at home can prevent last-minute, stressful shopping trips when something runs out.

5. Check for deals that will let you save big and win big BACK-to-school sales typically start between July and August, so you want to check on all the best deals that will let you save big. This year, GCash is offering exciting discounts and deals for students of all ages at shops like National Bookstore and Robinson’s Department Store for all their school supplies needs.

Additionally, you can revamp your kids’ wardrobes at shops like Penshoppe, Keds, Complex, Merrell, Sperry, Oxgn, Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Forme, Regatta, Bocu, and Memo.

How to Join the GCash Back-To-School Promo

UNTIL August 31, 2023 at all merchants where users may Scan-To-Pay with GCash, they will be rewarded for their transaction and earn one spin per day on the Back-ToSchool #LuckyQR the next day at 12 noon. Here’s how!

Log in to the GCash app and tap the Back-To-School banner.

Select the lucky draw game banner on the main Back-To-School landing page.

If you’ve made a QR payment transaction the previous day, you’ll be directed to the lucky draw game page. Spin the wheel and receive a notification with your result and prize details if you win.

10 winners of the P10,000 daily prize will receive their reward in their GCash wallet within 14 days.

Those who spin the Lucky QR may also receive consolation e-vouchers in real time which they can use through A+ Rewards platform on the GCash app. Vouchers include discounts for Mobaypay, NBA, Disney+, Spotify, Foodpanda, App Store, and Google Play Store. With the upcoming school season approaching quickly, take note of these tips and maximize the opportunity to pay with GCash and win big! #GCashToSchool and download the GCash app today from the App Store or Google Play Store.

number of Filipinos have chosen to stay in the metro, close to their workplaces and to the urban lifestyle they are accustomed to.

GARNIER…Gamba… Hendrawan…Marques… McClain…Yao…Oga…

Sakandelidze…Taylor…Valdemoro…

Victoriano… Basketball greatness.

A ll of them, part of the FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2023. And last, but not the least…Loyzaga.

I n a FIBA Hall of Fame induction held in a hotel in the heart of Metro Manila, basketball immortality awaited 12 inductees this year.

The stories, achievements, speeches of each one, were enough to awe the entire room, which was filled with delegates for the FIBA Congress Manila 2023 and basketball personalities from the Philippines and abroad.

But for Filipinos in the room, for a country so enamored with the sport, none of the names resounded as much as “Carlos Loyzaga.”

W hen called, his three children, Joaquin “Chito,” Ernesto “Joey” and Carla “Bing” took the stage to receive the trophy on behalf of their late father.

The applause was loud, to understate the matter. Chito then went on to deliver a resounding speech, short but sweet. The ultimate message? The name on the back of the jersey matters little compared to the flag on the front of the jersey.

The legacy of Caloy Loyzaga, in Chito’s words, was that he played “for love of country, for the flag.” He gave it his all, showed sportsmanship and

Editor: Jun Lomibao

CHOT, GILAS: STOP KAT!

good character. That, perhaps, is what sets him apart from many.

Imagine, that was not too long after the war. The struggles, the difficulties they had to go through to represent the country, to play for the flag. That was no joke,” Chito said. The recognition for Loyzaga’s basketball exploits may perhaps seem belated, considering what he achieved and the time since he set his accomplishments. But the truth of the matter is, the achievements of the man they called “The Big Difference” are timeless.

From his days at San Beda College, his international stints leading to since unmatched triumphs for the country, his time with the Yco dynasty, and even his post-playing days where he achieved some more as a coach, Caloy does not belong to one particular time frame. In Philippine basketball lore, his name should come up again and again, and again. His body of work should be the one that players who came in the years after his career should have aspired for, and current and future players should strive to reach. He exuded not just skill, but class. He knew his responsibilities, his priorities in basketball, and, because he was the biggest man of his day, with the broadest of shoulders and a barrel chest, he knew he had to deliver.

A nd deliver, he did. And that, is the big difference.

A little bit of a scare in Okinawa

PLANS for the start of the Basketball World Cup in Okinawa in Japan were unaffected Thursday after a North Korean rocket launch prompted an alert ordering some residents to evacuate.

P ress conferences and practices for the eight teams that are beginning World Cup play in Okinawa went on as scheduled Thursday.

The tournament begins Friday, also in the Philippines and Indonesia.

There were no reports of damage.

“ It was a little scary,” Slovenia star Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks said Thursday when asked what it was like to experience the alert, which went out shortly before 4 a.m. local time.

By Josef Ramos

AND the battle finally begins in Bocaue where the men’s national basketball team takes on the Dominican Republic on Day 1 of the FIBA World Cup.

It’s nowhere near being an easy task for Gilas Pilipinas to hurdle its first assignment in Group A, needing an all important victory to gain momentum in the tournament that gathers the best basketball-playing countries—16 in the Philippine and eight each in Okinawa and Jakarta.

For one, Karl Anthony Towns, or KAT, a certified National Basketball Association All-Star, leads the Dominicanos’ charge in the 8 p.m. game at the 50,000seat Philippine Arena that host Samahang Basketbol ng

Pilipinas (SBP) wanted to be filled to the rafters.

A sk Gilas head coach Chot Reyes what is needed to stop the Dominican Republic. Or only KAT himself.

It takes a village to stop KarlAnthony Towns and the Dominican Republic,” said Reyes, referring to what Filipinos fondly say when facing a hard-to-beat opponent “dalhin ang buong barangay.”

“I don’t think it’s physically possible for any single person in our team to stop him one on one,” Reyes told reporters in a news conference Tuesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

[But] it’s not a one-man team that we are playing tomorrow. But the initial job will be falling to the frontline so that is how important they are,” Reyes said.

Gilas big men 7-foot-3 Kai Sotto, 6-foot-10 June Mar Fajardo and AJ Edu, and 6-foot-9 Japeth Aguilar will have that tough task challenging Towns.

But Towns has been wreaking havoc in the NBA with averages of 20.8 points, 8.1 rebounds and 4.8 assists last season.

Besides Towns, Lester Quiñones of the Golden State Warriors is another head ache for Gilas, which will also have its hands full against the Dominican Republic big men 6-foot-11 Eloy Vargas and 6-foot-10 Angel Delgado.

Reyes, however, has cooked up his own brand of play he said is specifically designed for the Dominicanos—a strategy built around Jordan Clarkson, himself an NBA star playing out of the Utah Jazz.

The players are in high spirits and ready. Hopefully with the help of the home crowd, with the help of the sixth man, hopefully we can compete with this very, very tough opponent,” Reyes said.

The 6-foot-5 Clarkson, who averaged 20.8 points in the NBA last season and 25 points in the FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers last year, will be the center of the team’s offense.

give our best.”

C J Perez, Rhenz Abando, Kiefer Ravena, Jamie Malonzo, Dwight Ramos, Roger Pogoy and Scottie Thompson complete the Gilas side.

Dominican Republic coach Nestor Garcia, meanwhile, said they need to concentrate on the game and avoid distraction from the fans. There will be many people in the game. In this country, they love basketball and they support the team but we’re focused,” Garcia said. “We know Filipinos are also good shooters.”

The Philippines and the Dominican Republic met in July 2021 in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Tokyo in Belgrade with the Dominicanos, who played without Towns, winning, 94-67.

O pening hostilities at the Philippine Arena is the Angola-Italy game at 4 p.m.

I didn’t sleep much,” Doncic added. A long with Slovenia, the other nations playing group-stage World Cup games in Okinawa starting Friday are Finland, Germany, Australia, Japan, Cape Verde, Georgia and Venezuela.

North Korea confirmed after the early morning launch Thursday that it was an unsuccessful second attempt to launch a spy satellite. Japanese officials said parts of the rocket fell into the Yellow Sea, the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

“It was crazy,” Doncic said. AP

OBIENA ON TRACK IN WORLDS

ERNEST JOHN “EJ” OBIENA breezed through the men’s pole vault qualifiers on Wednesday in the world athletics championships to find himself joining 11 worthy opponents in Saturday’s final in Budapest.

The 27-year-old Obiena, who clinched bronze in last year’s world championships in Eugene, Oregon, cleared the final qualifying height of 5.75 meters on his second attempt at the National Athletics Centre in Hungary’s capital.

Olympic and world champion Swede Armand Duplantis, the favorite, also cleared 5.75m along with American silver medalist Christopher Nilsen and Australian Kurtis Marschall to reach an all-star final.

Th ree other Asian pole vaulters— China’s Bokai Huang and Jie Yao and Turkey’s Ersu Sasma are also vying on Saturday.  Obiena made 5.70 meters in his first attempt which was a good sign, according to his personal adviser Jim Lafferty.  I told him I was so proud of him,” Lafferty told BusinessMirror on Thursday. “Let’s face it. The goal of

qualifying is just to make the final with minimal effort so you preserve yourself for the final. EJ was the most efficient vaulter.”

“

He took only two vaults and finished first! That’s amazing,” he added.  “

His understanding of how his competition was looking, and coupling this with smart use of passes, enabled him to brilliantly navigate the preliminaries with minimal exertion,” Lafferty added.

D uplantis has a season best 6.22m, a world record, while Obiena cleared 6m in July. Nilsen, on the other hand, leapt no higher than 5.92 meters this year.

He is well placed for the final.  Some of the bigger names had off days and didn’t advance,” Lafferty said. “EJ is well rested. It’s a good situation to be in.”

Josef Ramos

men’s pole vault final on Saturday in Budapest.

ANTHONY EDWARDS took a shot from half-court, watched it swish and then turned around and started yelling in celebration.

It seemed like the USA Basketball World Cup team rather enjoy its first trip to Mall of Asia Arena. The Americans got

Towns is huge, agile and skilled at 7 feet. He’s playing in a FIBA tournament for the first time after 10 years for his home country. He last played for the Dominican Republic in the 2013 FIBA Americas juniors.

Team captain Japeth Aguilar, a veteran of the 2014 World Cup in Spain, knows what lies ahead.

“ The World Cup is bigger than ourselves,” Aguilar said. “We have to

A lso playing Friday are Mexico against Montenegro and Egypt against Lithuania in Group D action at the Mall of Asia Arena, while in co-host Okinawa, it will be Finland vs Australia, Germany vs Japan in Group E and in Jakarta, the matches are Latvia vs Lebanon and Canada vs France in Group H.

Team USA gets first look, first feel of MOA Arena

their first look at their World Cup venue on Wednesday night with a short practice inside the arena. They will play every game of their run in the tournament there, starting with Saturday’s opener against New Zealand and, they hope, stretching all the way through the gold-medal game on September 10.

“Very helpful,” US coach Steve Kerr said. “I think all the guys liked to see the arena, feel the hoops, see the backdrop. It’s good to come over here.”

Wednesday’s was the only practice the Americans have planned at the arena before Saturday. There’s a full basketball facility at their hotel, and that’s what they’ll be using for

workouts on their way to completing preparations for New Zealand.

It feels good,” US guard Austin Reaves said. “Hopefully we play eight games here and obviously win all of them. It’s good to get here and run around. We had a good practice yesterday, a good one today, and hopefully we’ll keep building throughout this week for Saturday’s game.”

The US World Cup team played in four different cities during the 2019 tournament in China—going from Shanghai to Shenzhen to Dongguan to Beijing. There won’t be any travel this time; the Americans are among the 16 teams that start the

Union defends Hermoso, demands punishment for ‘kissing’ soccer head

ARCELONA, Spain—The players’ union representing the Women’s World Cup winner kissed without her consent by the president of the Spanish soccer federation said Wednesday that his inappropriate act should not go unpunished.

Jenni Hermoso, who was kissed forcibly by federation head Luis Rubiales during Sunday’s awards ceremony, said in a statement that the FUTPRO players’ union and her agent would “defend my interests and speak on my behalf.”

The union continued the statement by adding: “We are working so that the acts like the ones we witnessed don’t

Bgo unpunished, are sanctioned, and that pertinent measures are adopted to protect the soccer players against actions that are unacceptable.”

Hermoso, a 33-year-old forward and key player for Spain, had said on a video streamed on social media during a changing room celebration following the 1-0 win over England in Sunday’s final that she “did not like it, but what could I do” about the kiss.

I n the immediate uproar over the kiss, the federation released a statement in the name of Hermoso in which she downplayed the incident. Later, a local media report by sports website Relevo.com said that the federation had coerced her to making the statement. The federation has denied this to The AP. R elevo.com also reported that Rubiales asked for Hermoso to appear

tournament in Manila while eight are opening play in Okinawa, Japan, and eight others in Jakarta, Indonesia. The medal rounds will be in Manila. We just scrimmaged and the lid was on the rim. I missed like my first three shots,” said Edwards, who led the US with 34 points in its exhibition-season finale against Germany, in which the Americans rallied from 16 down to win 99-91. “But I ended up making like three straight. Just trying to take the lid off the rim, that’s the main thing.”

The half-court shot convinced Edwards that the Mall of Asia Arena lid is no more. “ It’s off now,” he said.

on the video in which he apologized for kissing her, only for her to refuse.

It said captain Ivana Andrés also was asked to participate but likewise refused. Relevo said people traveling with the Spanish delegation back to Madrid also saw coach Jorge Vilda try to convince Hermoso’s family for her to appear in the video.

For the head of Spain’s top sports authority, Hermoso should not be made the focus of the incident.

[Hermoso] can decide to speak out or not, and whatever she does she will be doing the right thing, because above all we cannot put the responsibility for this on her,” said Víctor Francos, Spain’s secretary of state for sports and president of Spain’s Higher Council for Sports. Francos says that Rubiales’ conduct has damaged the country’s image—just as it tries to win a joint bid to host the 2030 men’s World Cup. “ Spanish sports did not offer a good image as far as its leaders were concerned,” Francos told The Associated Press in a telephone interview from Madrid.

THE late Carlos “Caloy” Loyzaga’s sons Joaquin “Chito” (second from left) and Ernesto “Joey” and daughter Carla “Bing” (right) stand on the Hall of Fame stage with FIBA president Hamane Niang of Mali.

ANTHONY EDWARDS enjoys his first shot at the Pasay City facility.

ERNEST JOHN “EJ” OBIENA’S in the

HEAD coach Chot Reyes gets some fun time playing table tennis with Jordan Clarkson at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Caloy ‘Big Difference’ Loyzaga enshrined into FIBA Hall of Fame

RUBIALES

GEELY UNVEILS THE GX3 PRO SUBCOMPACT CROSSOVER

TOP-notch carmaker Geely

recently unveiled its entry to the hotly-contested Bsegment crossover—the muchanticipated GX3 Pro. Geely claims that it is committed to making cars with premium features more accessible to the public and continues to break down barriers with the newest model introduced. This model combines the brand’s proven performance with luxury touches and cutting-edge features targeting the younger generation.

“This model holds a strategic significance for Geely, as it aims to capture an entirely new customer base, particularly Gen Z. With its enticing introductory pricing and an emphasis on an enjoyable driving Experience, the GX3 Pro is poised to play a pivotal role in expanding our reach and achieving five-digit

Annual sales figures,” said Geely Philippines president and CEO Yugo Kiyofuji.

Geely also claims that the GX3 Pro pushes the boundaries of innovation, performance, and affordability to surpass the expectations of the discerning Filipino motorist.

Geely looks inside and out GEELY’S entry into the subcompact crossover segment is 4,005mm long, 1,760mm wide, and 1,575mm tall. The total wheelbase length is 2,480mm with a 185mm ground clearance. Upfront is the familiar brand design language, particularly the grill design complementing the keen-looking projector-type halogen headlamps with daytime running lights.

Other exterior elements are power side mirrors with defrost function, Satin Silver-finish roof rails Matte-finish, and body claddings highlighting the vehicle’s sporty form. Both variants roll with dark finish multispoke 16-inch alloys wrapped in 205/60R16 tires.

Inside, the dashboard has that known Geely pattern. Exclusive to the top-spec Comfort variant is the sunroof. The instrument panel has a meter cluster with a 3.5-inch display screen. It is complemented by an eight-inch infotainment system with a screen mirroring function via Carbit Link. The top-spec

is fitted with a six-speaker audio system. The seat material is PVC with 60:40 split back benches and ISOFIX tethers. The cargo bay can expand to 400 liters of space (rear bench folder).

Powertrain and drive modes

MOTIVATION comes from an inline-4, 16 valve, DOHC with DVVT

1.5-liter naturally-aspirated gasoline engine generating 102 horsepower and 142 N-m of torque. The S variant operates in a five-speed manual gearbox, while the Comfort variant has CVT with Sport Mode. The GX3 Pro Comfort CVT variant has three driving modes— Normal, Eco, and Sport.

Safety features

DRIVER & Passenger airbags, Anti-Lock Braking System with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist, Low Tire Pressure Warning, Reverse Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, Rear Parking Sensors, and Central Locking with Speed Sensing Sensor are all standard. Plus, a reliable four-wheel disc brake. Exclusive to the Comfort variant are features such as Cruise Control, Traction and Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, and Hill Descent Control.

Pricing and colors

THE Geely GX3 Pro S M/T variant retails at P778,000, while the top-spec Comfort variant is at P878,000. Geely Philippines is offering a P80,000 discount as part of the introductory pricing. Available colors are Red, White, Blue, and Grey.

Meanwhile, alongside its focus on the GX3 Pro’s style and function, Geely is also committed to after-sales customer Experience with the launch of G-SERV+.

“We are excited to unveil GSERV+, our brand’s commitment to after-sales customer experience. Geely Philippines, as a trailblazer among Chinese brands in this market, takes pride in having garnered over 20,000 customers to date, a number that is set to grow exponentially. Over the past year and beyond, we have dedicated significant efforts to revamp our aftersales operations. With G-SERV+, we are confident that Geely owners will enjoy peace of mind throughout their ownership journey, further Solidifying our customer base and fostering a sense of belonging within the Geely family,” explained Kiyofuji.

Mobility mode; cashless at expressways

experience not just for the privileged but also for the general public.

“I think the participation of other related industries in the exhibitions will encourage the young generation to create and showcase their bright, new ideas to the world.”

Short but sweet, it is called.

but only after toll personnel have installed an RFID sticker on their vehicles and taken a photo of their vehicle license plates and gotten the motorists’ mobile phone numbers.

KNOWN as the Tokyo Motor Show for decades beginning 1954, Asia’s first automobile showcase will now be known as the Japan Mobility Show beginning October 2023.  The switch was instigated by Akio Toyoda, now the chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation.

It is a timely move as the coming event will feature all-encompassing technologies covering practically all motoring aspects that matter, amid new thrusts in the ever-changing auto world.

C ristina “Tini” Arevalo, the Mobility leader of Toyota Motor Philippines, offers her insightful view on the shift in approach.

It’s a good move for Chairman Toyoda.  The change from Tokyo Motor Show to Japan Mobility Show makes this significant event more inclusive to other related industries that actually add value to mobility experience. Mobility now is not simply about cars, but also the technologies, systems and applications that allow you to optimize use of the vehicles, and make day-to-day journeys a safe and comfortable

Cashless Travel

JON Hernandez of San Miguel Corp. (SMC) writes to say that SMC Infrastructure is ready to implement the cashless and contactless payment system along expressways.

T he Department of Transportation, through its Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), will conduct a dry run on September 1 in coordination with SMC.

“ We support the move to make toll collection purely cashless. We believe it will significantly reduce traffic congestion and waiting times at toll plazas and contribute to a smoother and safer travel experience,” said SMC President and CEO Ramon S. Ang.

U nder the TRB-directed dry run, only vehicles with an active Autosweep RFID account will be allowed along SMC’s toll expressways, namely the SLEX, STAR, Skyway at-grade and Skyways 1,2,3; the NAIA Expressway, and the TPLEX.

M otorists without RFID stickers will still be allowed to pass,

J on also informed us that loading an Autosweep RFID account has also been made easier, more convenient, and widely available at Bank of Commerce branches, and their respective online and electronic banking facilities. E-wallets can also be used to reload the Autosweep RFID account, as well as the payment facilities of major convenience stores nationwide.

H e says replacement of malfunctioning RFID stickers will remain free of charge as part of Autosweep’s commitment to support the full cashless transaction program.

T his is all good, trafficwise.  And queues at exit points will soon be a thing of the past? You bet.

PEE STOP Satchi Ang-Bargas of Velocita Motors, the nation’s exclusive dealer of the iconic Ferrari, says they will have an exclusive party on Sept. 1 at their Edsa Wack Wack facility in Mandaluyong City.  All the best, Satchi…Christine Janice “CJ” Cortez is Lyka dela Cruz’s newest ally at Honda Cars PH…Sam Surla, Vernon B. Sarne’s managing editor at Visor, is so tech-savvy he installed my Spotify in a breeze. Magic!

Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino

GEELY’S inline-4, 16 valve, DOHC with DVVT 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated gasoline engine

THE top-spec Geely GX3 Pro Comfort variant in red color