H e P hilippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) found data inconsistencies in the beneficiary list used for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
In a discussion paper published on Thursday, a team led by PIDS Senior Research Fellow Jose Ramon G. Albert and President Aniceto C. Orbeta Jr. said these data inconsistencies have the potential to affect program implementation. The researchers of the govern -
ment’s think tank also said these data inconsistencies prevent the program from being able to track and respond to changing household circumstances over time.
“This gap points to fundamental challenges in the program’s ability to track and respond to changing household circumstances over time. Data discrepancies need not be actual errors but may reflect dynamic situations of households,” the researchers said.
Based on the findings, there was a 90 to 94 percent consistency rate when it comes to static demographic information such as
birthdate and gender.
However, consistency rates dropped when it comes to dynamic data, such as educational attainment at 76.4 percent and employment status at 71.2 percent.
The researchers said this showed “notably lower consistency, highlighting significant challenges in maintaining current information in a rapidly changing social environment.”
The researchers also noted there are urban-rural divide induced data inconsistencies, particularly for infrastructurerelated data. The study revealed consistency rates ranged from
81.2 percent for water sources in Balance Luzon to 55.9 percent in Mindanao.
“This urban-rural divide appears consistently throughout our findings, suggesting structural challenges in urban targeting and information management that require specific policy responses,” the researchers said. The research findings also revealed “other challenges,” such as targeting accuracy due to changes in income, household structures, and “intra-city welfare variations.”
UNPROGRAMMED FUNDS
BLOAT NATIONAL BUDGET
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
The government has inserted more unprogrammed funds into the national budget for this year, pushing it to a record-high of P6.149 trillion.
Latest data from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) showed P121.875 billion in unprogrammed funds were added to the national budget in November. Figures from the DBM indicated that P91.037 billion was added as assistance for government infrastructure and social programs.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) obtained P86.037 billion and P5 billion, respectively.
About P2.973 billion was also allotted as support for foreignassisted projects, particularly to
We g lobal sustain
able finance issu
ance remained low in the third quarter of 2024, Dutch multinational bank ING expects a rebound next year on the back of environmental, social and governance ( e S G) offerings.
In ING’s latest Sustainable Finance Pulse, global sustainable issuance reached $385 billion in July to September, lower than the quarterly average of a little over $400 billion.
Year-to-date, global sustainable finance issuance amounted to $1.259 trillion, up from last year’s $1.131 trillion, and in line with the $1.265 trillion in 2022 and $1.389 trillion in 2021.
ING said it anticipates this pace to continue into the fourth quarter, with market activity concentrated in the first half of 2024.
DPWH and the Departments of Transportation (DOTr) and Agriculture (DA).
The DOTr and DA also received more funding for the government’s counterpart of foreignassisted projects worth P1.387 billion.
For the maintenance, repair and rehabilitation of infrastructure facilities, P7.5 billion was given to DPWH. DBM data showed that the Department of Health (DOH) received an allocation of P2.816 billion to fund priority social programs for health.
The main drivers for lower global sustainable supply were the sustainability-linked bonds, which totaled $6.5 billion in the third quarter, down from the $22-billion quarterly average. Meanwhile, sustainabilitylinked loans totaled $50 billion in the third quarter, much lower than the $95 billion quarterly average.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief e c onomist Michael L. Ricafort told the BusinessMirror that the slowdown could be attributed to the peak in interest rates and bond yields globally and in the United States earlier this year.
“ e s pecially before the first US Federal Reserve rate cut in about four years on September 18, 2024, by 50 basis points, so borrowing costs were relatively higher before,” Ricafort said.
TH e na tional government is exploring various formats for its offshore funding needs to diversify its investor base as it becomes less reliant on official development assistance (ODA), according to the Cabinetlevel Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC).
In its Fiscal Risks Statement for 2025 report, the Philippines will reduce its dependence on ODA loans upon graduating to upper middle-income status.
ODA loans are low-interest loans given by a donor government to a developing country to support self-sustainable economic development.
“The national government aims
to maintain its strong track record of reliable access to foreign currency-denominated market financing,” the report read.
As such, the government is exploring e u robonds or ROPs, environmental, social and governance-linked notes and sukuk to raise funds from the external debt market for cost-efficient pricing.
“Notably, offshore market financing has become a more viable option in recent history with the aggressive tightening of sovereign spreads and the persistently elevated benchmark rates on concessional loans,” the report read.
hOlIDaY chEEr chinese ambassador to the Philippines h E. huang xilian gives christmas gifts to the children of a Paco orphanage at a christmas party organized by the embassy coinciding with the 13th Manila Forum for Philippines-china relations in Makati cit y on Wednesday (December 11, 2024). NONIE REYES
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Due to this, the targeting accuracy in urban areas showed the coverage of the poorest decile reaches only 26.2 percent compared to 30.6 percent in rural areas.
Targeting was more accurate in rural areas at 74.6 percent compared to urban areas at 69.2 percent for the bottom three deciles.
“While rural areas show better targeting performance, they face different constraints including geographic isolation and seasonal income variations that affect data collection and verification processes,” the researchers said.
Launched in 2008, 4Ps is a conditional cash transfer program, that evolved from a pilot of only 6,000 families to become the country’s flagship poverty reduction initiative, reaching approximately 4.4 million households by 2023.
The expansion of the 4Ps reflected the government’s commitment to social protection, evidenced by a fivefold increase in budget allocation to 0.5 percent of GDP by 2014 from 0.1 percent of GDP in 2010.
The researchers said the program’s targeting infrastructure relies on the Listahanan which is a national social registry implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
This database, the researchers said, has undergone three major iterations since 2009, each representing significant methodological refinements.
Weak ECCD programs seen denting labor productivity
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
Gaps in Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) programs will hurt long-term labor productivity in the philippines, according to a study conducted by government think tank philippine Institute for Development studies (pIDs).
In its paper, PIDS found that chronic malnutrition and limited access to early education are hindering millions of Filipino children from reaching their full potential—with the country hurting from its economic consequences.
“Stunting has a profound impact on human development and the economy. It has negative effects on cognitive and learning abilities, health and labor produc -
tivity during adult years,” the report read.
In 2020, the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund reported that the Philippines ranked fifth among countries in East Asia and Pacific Region with the highest stunting prevalence. It is also among the top 10 countries worldwide with the most stunted children.
PIDS said Filipino children’s
lack of access to ECCD exacerbates this issue. It noted that males with higher height-forage scores were 40 percent more likely to secure formal work, while females with similar scores also had better chances of formal employment.
“Globally, children without ECCD access are more likely to be unemployed, earn less, and face poorer health outcomes and shorter life expectancies,” it added.
Despite its importance, participation in early education remains low in the Philippines.
In 2022, the research firm found that only 20 percent of children aged 3 to 4 attended pre-kindergarten programs.
Disparities were stark across regions, with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao recording participation rates as low as 5 percent.
Undernutrition and inadequate healthcare in early
childhood further impact productivity.
About 14 percent of Filipino women of reproductive age are underweight, a figure that rises to 20 percent among poor adolescents.
Additionally, only a quarter of Filipino children meet recommended energy intake levels, particularly those aged 6 to 12 months from low-income households.
‘Missed opportunities’
T HE f irst 1,000 days of a child’s life are supposed to be crucial for brain development, but PIDS said there are significant gaps in healthcare and nutrition delivery during this period.
“Our findings reveal a significant gap in the delivery of necessary health and nutrition interventions during this critical window,” it said, linking these shortcomings to high levels of stunting and poor learning outcomes.
Unprogrammed...
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Moreover, local government units received P4.320 billion as support to the barangay development program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).
Further, P1.5 billion was disbursed to the DA for the Cold Storage Expansion Project while the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) obtained P410.825 million as fiscal support arrearages for Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy.
This year, the original program for the national budget was set at P5.767 trillion. This is composed of P4.009 trillion under the 2024 General Appropriations Act, P1.757 trillion in automatic appro -
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“Looking ahead, ING expects a rebound in 2025, with issuers increasingly turning to ESG offerings to drive demand and reduce costs on new issuances,” it said.
ING Philippines Country Manager Jun Palanca said ongoing discussions with clients indicate continued interest in sustainable finance deals.
“The market has seen encouraging momentum, particularly when wellknown corporates completed notable sustainable finance transactions this year,” Palanca added.
Ricafort said a further decline in
robond
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the October
priations, continuing appropriations from 2023, and unprogrammed appropriations. This means that P382.327 billion in additional unprogrammed appropriations have been infused into the running budget.
Unprogrammed appropriations may only be availed when revenue collections exceed targets, through new revenue collections from new tax or non-tax sources and approved loans for foreign-assisted projects.
The DBM has adjusted the national budget twice this year by adding P65.173 billion last September and P98.904 billion in October.
interest rates and bond yields will help attract more issuers offering lower borrowing costs as global and local regulators encourage investors to patronize issuers that comply with ESG standards.
ING also said in its report that it sees “robust” transaction numbers and volume in the third quarter, mobilizing sustainable financing of €28.6 billion.
“We saw the increase in volume mobilized driven by sustainability-linked loans and green bonds,” ING said.
“In addition to volumes from loans and bonds, we’ve also seen greater sustainable finance volumes in 2024 relating to commercial paper and guarantees, demonstrating our engagement with clients across a wider range of sustainable finance products,” it said.
Reine Juvierre Alberto
PIDS said institutional inefficiencies are a major hurdle to effective ECCD implementation, as unclear agency roles and resource shortages lead to poor accountability and duplicated efforts.
“Weak institutions create a vacuum in the system, hindering early childhood care development intervention implementation,” the think tank added.
To address these challenges, the group recommended increasing investments in ECCD, prioritizing programs with long-term impacts, and ensuring better inter-agency coordination.
Full implementation of the Universal Health Care Act is also essential to provide comprehensive services to children.
“ECCD yields positive outcomes in education, health, and overall well-being. These benefits extend beyond individual gains, impacting broader societal dimensions such as economic productivity and social stability,” the report added.
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“We’d like to see obviously foreign ownership extended like we appreciate the Public Service Act, which did assist, I’m talking the previous one, the Foreign Investment Act,” he told reporters on Thursday. However, he pointed out the need to “constantly do more” in liberalizing the economy.
“But I can’t stress enough you’re competing with other countries, so ownership will always be there, right? Because people will say, well, okay, if I can’t own this, what do I do in other companies? And that will compare, right?” Nelson noted.
“So yes, we’d like to see further extension of foreign ownership.” Trade in goods and services between the Philippines and the United Kingdom amounted to £2.9 billion in the four quarters to the end of second quarter of 2024, a 0.4 percent increase or £13 million in current prices from the four quarters to the end of second quarter of 2023. Of the figure, UK exports to Philippines amounted to £1.2 billion in the four quarters to the end of second quarter of 2024, a decrease of 11 percent or £143 million in current prices, compared to the four quarters to the end of second quarter in 2023. Meanwhile, UK imports from Philippines amounted to £1.7 billion in the four quarters to the end of second quarter of 2024, an increase of 9.8 percent or £156 million in current prices, compared to the four quarters to the end of second quarter in 2023. The Philippines was the UK’s 60th largest trading partner in the four quarters to the end of second quarter of 2024 accounting for 0.2 percent of total UK trade.
BCCP said the UK is the Philippines’s 8th largest source of tourist arrivals and top 5 largest source of overseas Filipino remittances.
will continue to rely heavily on local capital markets as a source of financing. Reine Juvierre Alberto
In terms of foreign direct investment flows, the UK is the Philippines’s number one source of FDI inflows at £585.74 million.
sets crackdown on private armies
By Rex Anthony Naval
FIVE months before the midterm elections, the National Police chief, Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, ordered all police units to intensify efforts to “neutralize” private armed groups to prevent these from sowing trouble during the campaign period up to the polls.
Marbil also ordered a campaign against loose firearms.
“Our intensified campaign against PAGs and loose firearms underscores our commitment to providing a safe environment for every Filipino as we
approach the election period. The force is resolute in its mission to dismantle these groups and eliminate threats to peace,” Marbil said.
From January 1 to November 30 this year, the National Police said it
arrested 8,628 individuals for violation of Republic Act 10591, which governs firearms ownership.
During this period, a total of 25,240 firearms were either confiscated, recovered, or surrendered, with an additional 9,932 firearms turned over for safekeeping.
The firearms were previously registered by the owners failed to renew their licenses.
The highest number of arrests for firearms law violations were recorded in Metro Manila with 2,033 arrests, followed by Central Luzon with 979 and Central Visayas with 906.
In terms of confiscated or surrendered firearms, Central Visayas led with 3,951 , followed by Western Visayas with 3,023 and Metro Manila with 2,175.
Meanwhile, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Que -
zon) recorded the highest number of firearms turned over for safekeeping at 2,797.
The campaign against PAGs has also seen notable progress; the number of active PAGs has decreased from six in 2023 to three this year following the disbandment of the Kunti Melo Group in Bukidnon and the Bal and Mayo Groups in Nueva Ecija.
Furthermore, potential PAGs have dropped from 28 to just five due to ongoing operations that have led to the delisting of 33 groups following arrests and surrenders.
“By aggressively targeting private armed groups and the illegal firearms they use, we are dismantling their capacity for violence and intimidation. The PNP remains committed to safeguarding the democratic process and ensuring a secure Philippines for all,” Marbil said.
‘Calmer’ Kanlaon’s volcanic dust reaches Panay
By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
ACALMER Mount Kanlaon was observed on Wednesday and Thursday, but volcanic gas emitted by the restive volcano continues to pose serious health risks to communities.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Kanlaon, which straddles the provinces of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental, is still under Alert Level 3 or Intensified Unrest, because of sustained increases in the levels of volcanic earthquakes, some of which are perceptible, as well as, volcanic tremor and rumbling sounds.
Among the parameters for Intensified Unrest, also called Magmatic Unrest, is the forceful and voluminous steam and ash ejections. It could also mean that there’s a sustained increase in sulphur dioxide (SO2 emission rates and ground deformation-swelling of the edifice. Activity at the summit may involve dome growth and/or lava flow, resulting in rockfall.
Based on Phivolcs 24-hour monitoring, two volcanic earthquakes occurred on Wednesday. The sulfur dioxide flux as of Thursday was 7019 tonnes per day and the volcano edifice remains inflated, indicating magmatic activity.
Phivolcs maintained its recom -
mendation for the evacuation of people living within a six-kilometer radius of the volcano’s summit, maintaining that sudden explosive eruption, lava flow or effusion, ashfall, Pyroclastic Density Current (PDC), and, or lahars occurring during heavy rains may occur, endangering human lives. Hindi masyadong nag-aalboroto Nanahimik , pero hindi po ibig sabihin di na puputok ,” Volcanologist Jojo Fortun told the BusinessMirror Kanlaon’s last restive behavior was observed on Wednesday around 4:35 p.m.
“There was ash emission. Tumaas ng mga 200 meters,” Fortun said.
Intense sulfur dioxide emission REPORTS reaching the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) also revealed that intense sulfur dioxide emissions from Kanlaon have now reached Panay Island. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga said satellite imagery from the Korean Space Agency, analyzed by the Manila Observatory, confirmed significant sulfur dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere. This poses concerns about air quality and potential environmental hazards.
“The sulfur dioxide from the eruption has traveled towards the Panay area,” Loyzaga said, noting that satellite data from as far as 36,000 kilo -
meters above Earth highlighted the intensity of the emissions.
“The signal picked up means that the sulfur dioxide is quite intense,” Loyzaga warned that prolonged exposure to airborne sulfur dioxide could lead to respiratory ailments. The gas, along with acidic ash from the eruption, can also contaminate water sources, making these unsafe for consumption and irrigation unless treated.
The DENR is closely monitoring these risks and conducting tests to assess water contamination.
11,791 families affected
THE National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said, Kanlaon has so far affected 11,791 families or 40,489 persons in 25 barangays.
Since December 9, authorities have started evacuating residents to safer grounds, with 4,630 families or 15,344 persons being served in 27 evacuation centers. On top of those being served in evacuation centers, 677 families or 2,522 persons are being provided help by the government.
A total of P6,433,946 worth of assistance was provided to the affected families by DSWD, LGU, and NGO in Region VI, the NDRRMC reported.
Because of the eruption and the associated hazards, classes in 12 cities and municipalities in Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental have been
suspended.
In response to the growing number of internally displaced persons following the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, the local government of Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, has opened additional evacuation centers to ensure adequate shelter for affected residents.
Lt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson for the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Noppo), confirmed on Thursday that five evacuation centers are now fully operational.
According to a report from the Canlaon City Police Station as of midnight Thursday, 863 families—totaling 2,819 individuals—are taking temporary refuge in these facilities.
Edna Lhou Masicampo, the city’s designated information officer, disclosed that residents from five barangays located within Mt. Kanlaon’s six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) were evacuated under a mandatory order.
Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas personally welcomed evacuees arriving on Wednesday evening, assuring them that the city government was working to provide food and essential relief supplies.
To accommodate the evacuees, modular tents have been installed at the city gymnasium, while classrooms in the designated schools have been converted into temporary living spaces.
QuadCom orders arrest of another cop
By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie
THE House Quad Committee on Thursday ordered the arrest of Police Col. Hector Grijaldo after citing him in contempt for failing to attend its hearings for the fourth time, despite several invitations and medical evaluations indicating that he was fit to appear.
Grijaldo, a resource person in the panel’s inquiry, has not returned since his appearance in the Senate, where he accused two QuadCom leaders of coercing him to corroborate former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office General Manager Royina Garma’s testimony about an alleged reward system during the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.
QuadCom co-chairmen Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez and Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. denied the accusations, branding these “fabrications.”
Grijaldo claimed he was recovering from a “rotator cuff syndrome” operation, but lawmakers expressed skepticism.
Assistant Majority Leader and Taguig City Rep. Pammy Zamora, exasperated by Grijaldo’s repeated absences, moved to cite him in contempt.
“Sorry, but I think we’ve given him... what’s his name? Col. Hector Grijaldo, enough leeway. Sobrang bait na natin sa kanya and I think it’s the right time to make an appropriate motion. Sumosobra na siya ,” Zamora said.
“This is, I believe, his fourth time to skip the QuadCom. Pero sa Senate, wala naman siyang rotator cuff syndrome. I’m sorry, but I really believe it’s high time that with the indulgence of all the Chairmen that I move to cite Col. Hector Grijaldo in contempt,” she added.
The QuadCom lead chairman, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, approved the motion after it was seconded without objections.
As a penalty, Assistant Majority Leader and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong moved that Grijaldo be detained at the House of Representatives’ detention facility until the committee concludes its hearings.
“So there is a motion to detain Col. Hector Grijaldo in the detention facility of the House of Representatives until the QuadCom terminates its committee hearing. Is there any second? Duly seconded. Any objections? Hearing none, the motion is approved,” Barbers declared.
Police Col. Dominic Guevara, chief of the PNP General Hospital, provided an update on Grijaldo’s medical status. According to Guevara, a medical evaluation was done on December 3 for Grijaldo, who is currently confined at a Pasig Health Facility, and a PNP medical team conducted the assessment on December 5.
Police Lt. Col. Lionel Garcia, chief of the Orthopedic Department, elaborated on the findings.
“Upon checking the patient, the patient is awake, coherent, cooperative, and ambulatory. Upon knowing he underwent shoulder surgery last December 2, one day post-operatively, he underwent physiotherapy bedside post,” Garcia said.
However, Garcia clarified, “On my orthopedic point of view, the patient may be able to attend this hearing but depende po iyan kung papayagan siya ng kanyang attending doctor. Hindi po kasi namin nakita ang kanyang medical record, because hindi kami pinayagan ng hospital.”
Lawmakers expressed doubts over Grijaldo’s justification for his absences.
Dalawang knee surgeries na ang pinagdaanan ko, MTL and ACL,” Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. said, referring to meniscotibial ligament and anterior cruciate ligament. “After my surgery, nag -bike na po ako kaagad At pinalakad na po ako ng doktor.” It was revealed during the hearing that Grijaldo is facing an administrative case for neglect of duty after repeatedly failing to attend legislative hearings.
“Last November 26, the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management informed us that they are currently conducting a pre-charge investigation and administrative case of neglect of duty regarding his absence last November 7,” said Police Col. Rowena Acosta, chief of the Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit.
“When he again failed to appear on November 27, another notice to explain was issued, and the case was referred to the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management,” she added.
The PNP disclosed that Grijaldo was given 10 days to submit a counter-affidavit as part of the pre-charge evaluation.
The PNP confirmed that each absence counts as a separate instance of neglect of duty, potentially compounding Grijaldo’s case.
Over 69k prisoners to vote next year
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Commission on Elections said on Thursday more than 69,000 detainees or persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) will participate in the 2025 midterm elections, marking a milestone in ensuring voting rights for all.
In a press briefing, Commissioner Aimee Ferolino disclosed that 68,448
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Meralco, cops join hands vs cable, electric meter thieves
By Lenie Lectura @joveemarie
THE Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and the National Police (PNP) will work together to address the rampant theft of electricity distribution facilities, particularly electric meters.
Since the start of the year, a total of 2,084 meters have been reported stolen. In the last five years or from 2019 to 2023, Meralco recorded a total of 4,591 stolen electric meters. Under the memorandum of understanding signed between Meralco and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the power distribution utility com -
pany will facilitate trainings to personnel for the identification of power distribution facilities to aid in a more effective arrest of violators. Meralco will also provide legal assistance to the PNP when there is a case filed against any of its personnel while performing official functions. The PNP, meanwhile, will provide operational support to Meralco and assist in investigation.
Both will also educate and inform the public of the risks of using stolen distribution facilities, which include the conduct of community roadshows at the barangay level to raise public awareness and emphasize the impact of the illegal acts.
Moreover, a technical working group will be established to explore more collaborations and regularly assess processes that will ensure compliance and enforcement of Republic Act 7832 or the Anti-Electricity and -Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act of 1994 to protect the integrity of its power distribution system.
“Being a distribution utility, whose assets are exposed and generally accessible to the public, Meralco is challenged by many untoward incidents such as vehicular accidents that damage our facilities, illegal service connections, and theft of our line materials such as wires and meters.
Thankfully, the National Police has
Think tank to govt: Prioritize investing in digitalization of K-12 education
INTERNATIONAL think tank Stratbase Institute on Thursday urged the government to prioritize investing in the digitalization of K to 12 education, stressing that connectivity and capacity building should be at the forefront of elevating our learners’ readiness, competence, and competitiveness.
“Our days of dismal performance at the Program for International Student Assessment [Pisa] should be behind us. They should only serve as a reminder of how much room there is to grow and improve, not only our learners’ competencies but our education system in general,” said Victor Andres Manhit, president of Stratbase Institute in a statement.
Pisa evaluates the learning competencies of 15-year-olds in specific fields of education.
Pisa’s 2022 figures indicate that Filipino
students remain among the world’s weakest in mathematics, reading and science. The Philippines also scored among the bottom four among 64 countries surveyed in their use of imagination and creativity to generate and improve upon ideas. Manhit said that the United Nations itself is pushing digitalization to elevate education across different countries in the world.
“Specifically, the UN has identified content, capacity, and connectivity as key components of this pursuit. The Philippines must align its efforts to these priorities as well,” Manhit said. According to the UN, content refers to high-quality, curriculum-relevant teaching and learning materials delivered through digital platforms. Teachers’ and students’ capacity to use digital technologies must also be strengthened so that they can have
the skills and knowledge. At the base of it all is connectivity infrastructure, so that all schools and individuals can benefit from the advantages of fast broadband internet connection.
“In this digital age, it would be wrong to isolate learning within the four walls of the classroom,” said Manhit.
Manhit stressed that, “Digital technology is a transformative force in learning and productivity. We have to make use of the advantages offered by being virtually connected to the wealth of global knowledge that is now readily available in cyberspace.”
Meanwhile, consumer advocacy group CitizenWatch Philippines Lead Convenor Orlando Oxales commended the Department of Education for partnership initiatives with the private sector on this front, specifically the Ayala Group and its subsidiaries, to provide greater connectivity to power schools
always provided us with great assistance— from consultation and investigation to arresting offenders. Through this partnership, we look forward to a more productive collaboration,” Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie Aperocho said.
Stealing and reselling electric meters and other power distribution materials are punishable with at least 12 years imprisonment or a fine ranging from P50,000 to P100,000 under the law or both at the discretion of the court.
Buyers or users of stolen meters and other electricity distribution materials meanwhile are also subject to penalties.
across the archipelago. The venture will provide students with access to high-quality 21st-century digital learning content. It also allows for a mix of learning methods to suit students’ circumstances.
“The global digital economy faces a significant talent gap due to the rapid advancements in technology and the increasing demand for digital skills, which many economies struggle to find in their workforce, Oxales pointed out, “While Filipino students possess innate digital savvy and adaptability; fostering this potential through digitally empowered education will nurture an army of digital innovators the Philippines needs to become a global digital powerhouse.”
“To secure a future-ready generation, the government, in strategic partnership with the private sector, must harness this potential and ensure every young Filipino has access to cutting-edge educational tools. By doing so, we enable them with the skills and opportunities to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” Oxales explained. Rizal Raoul Reyes
PDL,” Ferolino explained, highlighting the challenges associated with managing escorted voting.
Comelec said polling procedures will vary depending on the number of eligible voters per facility.
Detention centers with 50 or more registered voters will have onsite polling areas manned by teachers and assisted by jail officers.
Facilities with fewer than 50 voters will rely on Bureau of Jail Management Penology (BJMP) and Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) personnel to escort detainees to their designated polling places.
All PDLs will have the opportunity to choose their national and local leaders.
However, voting in special precincts will only be allowed from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on election day.
Votes will be then transferred to city canvassing centers and subsequently transmitted to the national board of canvassers.
With potential risks at hand, Comelec, BJMP, and BuCor assured the public of their readiness to handle PDL voting this time—citing lessons learned from the 2022 elections.
“Now we have adequately prepared the resources na kailangan
i-provide to transport the ballots and the PDLs themselves,” Ferolino said, explaining that the previous polls were were hampered by manpower and logistical challenges.
Chief Supt. Noel Montalvo, BJMP chief, added that plans are already in place to streamline the process for escorted voters.
“We have 25,000 strong men BJMP… We have ample number of escorts na dadalhin sa bawat polling precinct kung sa labas,” Montalvo said.
He added that there are already established systems for coordinating voter movements, including assigned escorts and schedules.
Information gap
MEANWHILE , the BuCor chief, Director General Gregorio Catapang, pointed out that PDLs face additional barriers, such as limited access to information about candidates.
Hindi nila alam kung sino ba yung mga tumatakbo nalalaman lang nila pag nasa kanila na yung balota mismo dahil separated nga sila from society,” Catapang explained. He suggested setting up designated areas within detention facilities to display candidate information in advance.
The poll body his concern, re -
Basic
12.
Brief
MA, LONG IT Coordinator
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13.
14. CAI, RONGDUN IT Security Specialist
Brief Job Description: Institute protocols for the use of IT across departments and projects, provide advice on the most suitable IT choices and act as link between end users and high-level support.
15. QIU, SHANGYE IT Security Specialist
Brief Job Description: Institute protocols for the use of IT across departments and projects, provide advice on the most suitable IT choices and act as link between end users and high-level support.
Salary
Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree with experience in business management, finance, computer/software, marketing/sales, or related field, fluent in both written and verbal English and Chinese/Mandarin languages.
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree with experience in business management, finance, computer/software, marketing/sales, or related field, fluent in both written and verbal English and Chinese/Mandarin languages.
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree with experience in business management, finance, computer/software, marketing/sales, or related field, fluent in both written and verbal English and Chinese/Mandarin
42.
43.
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Brief Job Description: Prepare reports bids and contracts by collecting and analyzing information.
48. SOHAL, GURINDER SINGH Research And Account Specialist
Brief Job Description: Prepare reports bids and contracts by collecting and analyzing information.
49. WANG, ZHU Research And Account Specialist
Brief Job Description: Prepare reports bids and contracts by collecting and analyzing information.
50. WIRRING, RAMANDEEP SINGH Research And Account Specialist
Brief Job Description: Prepare reports bids and contracts by collecting and analyzing information.
business unit are managed in a timely, cost-effective manner.
OROMARINE SHIPPING CORPORATION
8399 Mayapis St. Cor., Catmon St., San Antonio, City Of Makati
89. YING, DEYUN Mandarin Chief Officer
Brief
90. CHEN, WEI Mandarin Chief Supervisor
Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Chief Supervisor will be a strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the
91. LI, SHAOGUANG Mandarin Deputy Managing Director
Brief
92. CHEN, KUAI Mandarin Sales
Brief
Basic Qualification: Have an excellent written and verbal communication skills in Danish and English languages. Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above
OUTSOURCE ACCELERATOR VENTURES INC. Unit 4301 43rd Flr One Corporate Centre, Doña Julia Vargas Ave. Cor Meralco Ave., Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig
Basic Qualification: 8-10 plus years
93. WRIGHT, AARON BENJAMIN
Director Of Operations
Brief Job Description: Analyze and maintain all client service level agreements, implement improvements plans as needed.
PRU LIFE INSURANCE CORPORATION OF U.K. 9th/f Uptown Place Tower 1, 1 East 11 Drive Bgc,
Lawmaker urges renationalization of agriculture and fisheries services
Al AWMAKER backed the call to renationalize agriculture and fishery services following the devolution of certain powers to the local government.
Camarines Sur Rep. l u is Raymund “ l R ay” Villafuerte said reverting full control and supervision over agricultural programs, facilities, and personnel from local government units ( l G Us) to the Department of Agriculture (DA) would bolster the farm sector. He also agreed with Senate President Francis Escudero and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu l aurel Jr. who earlier said that returning control of such services to the national government would boost farm output because the recurring productivity concerns in the sector were largely due to the devolution.
“This is the only way to decisively address what has been seen
as the disconnect between the national government, through the DA and its attached agencies, and the l GUs in the implementation of agricultural and fishery programs and projects that is believed largely responsible for the perennially anemic farm productivity,” Villafuerte said in a statement.
“It is a good thing that SP Chiz, Sec Kiko, and I are on the same page here with l o cal Government Secretary [Juanito Victor Remulla] who, in being a long-time governor like me prior to his Cabinet posting, supports a revisit of the 1991 l G C with an eye to tweaking its provisions on the devolution of certain functions from the central government to l G Us,” he added.
The l o cal Government Code of 1991 devolved agriculture and fishery, health, education, and other services to l G Us, following the 1987 Constitution’s policy on genuine local autonomy and decentralization. Ada Pelonia
Candidates to go ‘green’ with campaign materials
WITH campaign posters and flyers starting to flood streets ahead of the 2025 polls, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is pushing for a more sustainable approach to campaigning.
Under Resolution No. 11086, which outlines the Implementing Rules of the Fair Election Act for the upcoming polls, Comelec now requires all candidates to include the statement: “This material should be recycled or disposed responsibly” on their printed campaign materials.
Beyond the mandated disclaimer, the poll body is urging candidates to prioritize recyclable and environmentfriendly materials.
“Parties and candidates are hereby encouraged to avoid those that contain hazardous chemicals and substances in the production of their campaign and election propaganda,” Comelec stated.
The resolution also specifies lawful printed or handwritten campaign materials, which include pamphlets, leaflets, cards, decals, stickers, or similar items not exceeding 8.5 inches in width and 14 inches in length.
l e tters urging voters to support or oppose candidates, as well as posters or standing displays made of recyclable materials with dimensions not exceeding 2 feet by 3 feet, are also allowed.
Other approved materials include streamers, mobile advertisements, l E D billboards, and signboards displayed on campaign headquarters.
For election propaganda not explicitly mentioned, candidates must request prior authorization from Comelec, submitting samples for evaluation.
Poster areas
T H E poll body reiterated that campaign materials may only be posted in designated common poster areas (CPAs) in public spaces or private properties with the owner’s consent.
The number of CPAs per barangay will depend on the number of registered voters, with one CPA allowed for every 5,000 voters or fraction thereof.
These areas are limited to public spaces such as plazas, markets, and barangay centers.
Violators will receive a notice of removal from local election officers. If non-compliance persists, candidates and those responsible for unauthorized postings may face legal action from the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies.
The resolution presumes that candidates are responsible for campaign materials outside designated areas if they fail to remove them within three days of notice.
To enforce these rules, Comelec has formed a task force in every city and municipality composed of election officers as chairpersons, local prosecutors as vice chairpersons, and representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
In the National Capital Region, representatives from the Metro Manila Development Authority will also act as members.
Disclaimers
T H E Comelec also reminded candidates and political parties to include disclaimers in all printed, published, or broadcast election propaganda, clearly stating who funded the material.
The phrases “political advertisement paid for” or “political advertisement paid by” must be legible or audible.
For materials donated by publishing firms or airtime provided for free by radio or television stations, the disclaimers “printed free of charge” or “airtime for this broadcast was provided free of charge by” must be prominently indicated.
Senatorial candidates and political parties are limited to a total of 120 minutes of television advertisements and 180 minutes of radio advertisements per station.
Meanwhile, local aspirants are allowed up to 60 minutes of television ads and 90 minutes of radio ads per station.
All candidates, regardless of the position they are running for, are permitted up to a ¼-page advertisement in broadsheets and a ½-page ad in tabloids. Justine Xyrah Garcia
Comelec: Marikina mayor’s COC cancellation not yet final
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
The Commission on elections (Comelec) clarified on Thursday that the cancellation of Marikina Mayor Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro’s certificate of candidacy (COC) for the 2025 district representative race is not yet final. Friday, December
Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia said that the incumbent mayor can still file an appeal to reverse the initial ruling.
“Hanggang hindi final ang decision ng Commission en banc ay hindi tatanggalin at maalis ang pangalan,” Garcia said in an ambush interview.
The poll chief also announced his inhibition from the case, as he previously served as a lawyer for both Teodoro and Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, one of the petitioners and a rival candidate of the current mayor.
Garcia’s clarification follows a resolution released by the poll body on Wednesday, which declared that Teodoro failed to meet the residency requirements for running as Marikina’s first district representative.
Following the resolution issued by the First Division canceling his certificate of candidacy (COC) to run for Teodoro is set to file Motion for Reconsideration, saying that the decision is not yet final
and executory.
“I have five days from today within which to do so, the Resolution is not yet final and for all intents and purposes I am still a legitimate candidate for Member of the House of Representatives of the First District of Marikina,” Teodoro stressed.
He said that the petition for the cancellation and or denial of his COC filed by his opponent, is part of his opponent’s “political maneuvering.”
“The fact that two petitions were filed against me shows that there are political underpinnings that is geared towards my removal from the electoral race. I will not allow this to happen and will exhaust all legal remedies available to me,” he said.
The Comelec ruled that while Teodoro was born in the city’s first district, he abandoned his domicile of origin when he established residency in the second district in April 2024.
It added that Teodoro failed
to provide sufficient proof of reestablishing residency in the first district for at least one year prior to voting day.
Evidence and witness testimonies submitted by the petitioners—including Pimentel— showed that Teodoro continued to reside in Barangay Tumana, which is in the second district, contradicting his declaration of residency in Barangay San Roque in the first district.
“We are not convinced that he was able to return and establish his residence back to the first district,” the Comelec resolution stated. Under the Omnibus Election Code, candidates for district representative must have resided in the district they seek to represent for at least one year immediately preceding the election day.
As of this writing, the Marikina mayor has yet to file a motion for reconsideration.
In a resolution released Wednesday, the poll body ruled that Teodoro falsely declared meeting the residency requirements for running as the first district representative of Marikina.
The Comelec explained that Teodoro, who was born in Marikina’s first district, had long abandoned his domicile of origin when he acquired a new domicile in the city’s second district.
It added that while there is no legal prohibition against returning to one’s domicile of origin and restoring legal residence, Teodoro failed to prove that he had re-established at
least one year residency in the first district.
“The fact remains that he has abandoned his domicile of origin in the 1st district and acquired a new domicile of choice in the 2nd district. There is also no prohibition for the respondent to return to his domicile of origin and restore his legal residence therein,” the resolution read.
“By declaring in his COC the contrary, despite knowing fully well that he did not meet the minimum residency requirement, Respondent committed material misrepresentation which this Commission (First Division) cannot countenance,” it added. Under the Omnibus Election Code, candidates for district representative must reside in the district they seek to represent for at least one year immediately preceding the election.
Teodoro claimed he had been a resident of Barangay San Roque in the first district for one year and one month, but Comelec found this inconsistent with evidence showing his continued residency in Barangay Tumana, which is in the second district.
Six witnesses also testified that they had not seen Teodoro residing in Barangay San Roque.
“We are not convinced that he was able to return and establish his residence back to the first district,” the Comelec concluded.
As of this writing, the incumbent Marikina mayor has yet to comment on the decision or file a motion for reconsideration. With Claudeth S. Mocon-Ciriaco
DA: New bird flu strain unlikely to affect egg and chicken prices
THE new strain of bird flu detected in the country would not cause a spike in egg and chicken prices, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).
This, after the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) announced on Wednesday the first detection of the H5N2 strain of avian influenza in the Philippines.
The agency attached to the DA said the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) type A subtype H5N2 was found in a duck farm in Talisay, Camarines Norte.
“It will not have an impact [on] prices,” Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa told reporters on Thursday, noting that it would also not prompt a decline in consumption.
“We do not expect [chicken or egg consumption to decline] be-
cause again, this is not the first time we have had a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the country,” he said.
De Mesa explained that the H5N1 strain is more “virulent” and contagious compared to the H5N2 strain, adding that it is also “less likely” to be transmitted to humans.
“If you look at our cases, our bird flu incidences are easily controlled. Once it is controlled, a declaration of bird flu-free status is also made for the area,” he said in Filipino.
The DA official noted that the BAI is conducting an ongoing investigation to determine how the strain arrived in the country.
“The investigation by the Bureau of Animal Industry is ongoing to determine how H5N2 arrived
since this is the first time this strain of HPAI has reached our country,” De Mesa said, adding that culling operations on infected animals in the area have already been conducted.
The DA official reminded the public to purchase meat from reliable vendors and scan for the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) stamp.
“When cooking, whether it’s pork or chicken, always cook it well. Most of these viruses die when subjected to heat [...] if buying meat, look for the NMIS inspection mark,” he said.
Meanwhile, the United Broiler Raisers Association (Ubra) said chicken consumption and liveweight prices would not decline due to the newly detected strain.
Davao designers, SMEs craft 409
By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox
DAVAO CITY—Designers and small business entrepreneurs crafted 409 prototypes of design concepts in wearables and homestyles to improve existing products or create new innovative products, the Department of Trade and Industry here said. The prototypes are mostly along the concept of value-adding designs, infusing mixed media to create stunning and practical by products, said Ma. Joycelyn F. Banlasan, DTI provincial director for Davao Oriental.
“These include innovations in what we use to call then as cottage industries, the furniture, making of bags, shoes and clothing for daily use,” she told the B usiness M irror at the side of the annual media program of its yearend performance.
Banlasan said the the DTI was able to receive and assist this many number “because many of our designers in the Davao region are creative enough and have been into continu-
ous product development.”
One designer may have as many as four or five prototypes, all as innovation or finding new raw material for his or her main product.
Yvette Bags, for example, came up with several prototypes or new designs for its trademark bag products. “It started with bags made of plastic straws, and while it was for environmental reason that the raw material was plastic straw, the business soon ventured into other raw materials, but still on making of bags.”
The owner has also tapped women inmates for the business, to help the latter with some income.
“The owner adapted the DTI-recommended product development that soon sent her into the provinces to look for new and locally available raw materials for bags,” Banlasan said.
The owner selected the nito plant (Lygodium circinatum) for its fiber derived from its vine. The plant belongs to the fern family growing abundantly in the hinterlands of
prototypes
Mindanao, found clinging to trees and rocks.
“This brough bigger sales for Yvette Bags, and also to the suppliers of nito fiber from Davao Occidental,” she added.
She also cited another business owned by Tadeco, known for its banana growing and exporting operation, whose handicraft business “is undergoing continued product development, tapping mixed media to produce attractive designs”.
“Its line of chairs, tables, trays and household decorations for example, are being constantly subject to innovations,” Banlasan added. “You will find wooden chairs, or seats from steel frames, which would be accented by rattan strips crafted with woven designs for back support, or woven romblon strips for seat cushions,” she said.
“These accents and local materials integrated as a additional raw materials are turning their products into really functional chairs and attractive tables,” she said.
Innovation and creativity likewise inputted by one Emi Ingles of the Davao Design
“There has only been one case of AI on broilers based on BAI records,” Ubra Chairman Elias Jose Inciong told the BusinessMirror on Thursday.
“It is a duck farm. Ducks are known to be vulnerable,” Inciong said.
The BAI said that all disease control measures are being coordinated closely with the agency.
“Rest assured that BAI is committed to protecting Philippines’ poultry industry from the threat of avian influenza and will maintain close cooperation with other government agencies and stakeholders,” it said.
“We encourage the public to remain vigilant and report any unusual poultry deaths or signs of illness to local authorities for immediate action.” Ada Pelonia
Foundation to her product line of women’s blazers and clothing. “She is a buyer of woven local textiles, including those from tribal villages.”
“With the trend in ethnic designs, plain blazers would be turned into formal and fashionable wear with materials from the Mandaya tribe, or the Tinalak of the T’bolis crocheted or sewn into the shoulders to create traditional ethnic designs,” Banlasan added. Banlasan said most of the prototypes fall under the mixed media adaptation under the Design Industries Cluster of the DTI. The cluster was recently created under Republic Act 11904, the Philippine Creative Industries Developlent Act, to empower local creative talents, support cultural and creative landscapes in the different cities and encourage creative industries to flourish. In the Davao Region, the DTI launched three Lunsod Lunsad projects this year in Digos, Davao del Sur (called DIGoS or Design Industries Go Sandbox), Island Garden City of Samal (the Creative Bamboo Hub for Innovation, Research and Development) and Davao City (Creative Spaces in Public Spaces).
December 13, 2024
NOTICE OF FILING OF APPLICATION FOR ALIEN EMPLOYMENT PERMIT (AEP/S)
Notice is hereby given that the following companies/employers have filed with this Regional Office application/s for Alien Employment Permit/s:
1 AL-BAYT CIVIL ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION
50, Esligue Street, Poblacion, Malvar, Batangas
2 AL-BAYT CIVIL ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION
50, Esligue Street, Poblacion, Malvar, Batangas
3 AL-BAYT CIVIL ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION
50, Esligue Street, Poblacion, Malvar, Batangas
4 AL-BAYT CIVIL ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION
50, Esligue Street, Poblacion, Malvar, Batangas
5 AL-BAYT CIVIL ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION
LI, QINGSONG
Civil Site Manager
Brief Job Description:
Oversee construction projects and is responsible for their successful execution; they manage and coordinate all activities on the construction site, from planning, and budgeting to resource allocation and quality control
WANG, XINCHENG
Project Manager
Brief Job Description:
Oversee the analysis and development of a company business operation; these highly-analytical specialists have both business and technical expertise. Duties include analyzing requirement estimating the cost and establishing construction protocols
WANG, ZHE
Project Manager
Brief Job Description:
Oversee the analysis and development of a company’s business operation; these highly-analytical specialist has both business and technical expertise. Duties include analyzing requirements, estimating the cost and establishing construction protocols Basic
WONG, CHUNG KAY
Project Manager
Brief Job Description:
Oversee the analysis and development of a company business operation; these highly-analytical specialists have both business and technical expertise. Duties include analyzing requirement estimating the cost and establishing construction protocols
50, Esligue Street, Poblacion, Malvar, Batangas YAN, NIE
Project Manager
Brief Job Description:
Oversee the analysis and development of a company business operation; These highly-analytical specialists have both business and technical expertise. Duties include analyzing requirement estimating the cost and establishing construction protocols
6 COST PLUS, INC
National Highway, Tagapo, City Of Santa Rosa, Laguna
KHOTANI, MANISH Chief Financial Officer
Brief Job Description:
Develop and oversee the organization’s financial strategy
7 DREAM ESCAPADE TRAVEL AND TOURS INC.
#100, E. Gonzales Street, Barangay I (Pob.), Silang, Cavite GAO, PEI
Marketing Specialist
Brief Job Description:
Develop and execute innovative marketing programs/plans that attract customers
Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management or any relevant field
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
Basic Qualification:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management or any relevant field
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
Basic Qualification:
Knowledgeable in finance and excellent in leadership skills
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
Basic Qualification:
Proven experience managing social media accounts and website
Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999
9 JINGYE MANUFACTURING PHILS.
Bldg. 1, Lot 1, Block 2, Filinvest Technology Park, Punta, City of Calamba, Laguna
10 KAERTECH ELECTRONICS PHILIPPINES INC.
Bldg. 3, EZP Compound, Laguna Technopark Annex, Biñan, City of Biñan, Laguna
SONG, JIAYU
Assistant
MERCIER, TIMOTHE ARTHUR JULIEN
Mechanical Design Engineer
Brief Job Description:
11 MORIROKU PHILIPPINES, INC.
115 North Science Avenue, Laguna Technopark, Malamig, City of Biñan, Laguna
12 OSAVE TRADING PHILIPPINES CORPORATION
Highway 2000, Block 8, Phase 2, 888 Industrial Mega City, Santa Ana, Taytay, Rizal
IRIE, KAZUO Vice President Brief Job Description:
and
SURYAWIJAYA, ELVIN
Assistant Regional Manager
Brief Job Description:
Direct report to the Regional Manager; Lead Sales Division, Expansion Division, Admin & Finance Division, Logistics Division, and Regional Purchasing Division to ensure achieving company objective
13 PEAK MANAGEMENT OPC
Unit 4, 2nd Floor, C-Breed Arcade, Buhay Na Tubig, City of Imus, Cavite
Lots 9 & 10, Phase II, First Cavite Industrial Estate, Langkaan I, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite SATO, AYUMI
Senior Manager
Brief Job Description:
Develop and Supervise employees to ensure that business operations are running efficiently and that each individual’s performance meets company and industry standard
16 SIIX EMS PHILIPPINES, INC. 108 Competence Drive, Carmelray Industrial Park 1, Canlubang, City of Calamba, Laguna
KOBAYASHI, EIICHI Lc Managers
Brief Job Description:
Responsible for the development and supervision of all related project management activities
8 EPSON PRECISION (PHILIPPINES), INC.
Special Export Processing Zone, Lima Technology Center, Bugtong Na Pulo, City of Lipa, Batangas HARA, KOJIRO
Accounting & Business Control Adviser
Brief Job Description: Shall manage all transactions of accounting and business control department
Salary
17 TOYO INK PHILIPPINES CO INC,
106-b Integrity Avenue, Carmelray Industrial Park 1, Canlubang, City of Calamba, Laguna
MIYASHITA, TATSUYA
Vice Chairman of the Board and President
Brief Job Description: Oversee and manage the day-to-day business operations of the company
Editor: Angel R. Calso
Israeli strikes on Gaza Strip kill at least 33 including children, Palestinian medics say
By Samy Magdy & Wafaa Shurafa
The Associated Press
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza
Strip—Israeli strikes
pounded the Gaza Strip overnight and into Wednesday, with one attack ripping through a home where displaced people were sheltering in the isolated north.
The strikes killed at least 33 people including children, Palestinian health officials said.
Violence also flared in outside
Jerusalem, where an Israeli bus came under fire from a suspected Palestinian attacker late Wednesday, wounding three people including a 10-year-old boy, according to the military and hospital officials.
The attack took place on a highway near major Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, and the army was looking for the shooter in the area around Bethlehem.
The Israel-Hamas war in Gaza shows no end in sight, even after Israel reached a ceasefire with Lebanon’s Hezbollah militants and
attention shifted to the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar Assad by insurgents. Both the current and incoming US administrations have said they hope to end the war in Gaza before the inauguration in January, but ceasefire talks have repeatedly stalled.
The UN General Assembly overwhelmingly approved resolutions Wednesday demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and backing the UN agency for Palestinian refugees that Israel has moved to ban.
General Assembly resolutions
are not legally binding, although they do reflect world opinion. The votes in the 193-nation assembly were 158-9 with 13 abstentions to demand a ceasefire. Israel and its close ally the United States were in the tiny minority voting against.
Israeli strike in north Gaza wipes out 3 generations
The strike on the home killed 19 people in the northern town of Beit Lahiya near the border with Israel, according to nearby Kamal Adwan Hospital, which received the bodies. Hospital records show that a family of eight was among those killed: four children, their parents and two grandparents.
The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas militant in the vicinity of the hospital. It said reports about the number of casualties in the strike were inaccurate, without elaborating. The military says it tries to avoid harming civilians and accuses militants of hiding among them, putting their lives in danger.
The hospital said another strike near its entrance on Wednesday killed a woman and her two children.
The hospital director, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, said Israeli drones struck nearby residential blocks overnight, causing explosions that sparked panic among the facility’s more than 120 sick and wounded patients.
“We have received distress calls from neighbors and trapped people, but we’re not able to leave the hospital because of the continued risk,” he said. “We are witnessing a massive loss of life, with many martyrs in the targeted areas.”
Another strike in the decadesold Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza killed at least seven people, according to the Awda Hospital. The dead included two children, their parents and three other relatives, it said. Later, the hospital said another attack hit the same camp, killing four people and injuring 16 more.
There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on the other strikes.
In Lebanon, where near-daily Israeli attacks have continued despite the ceasefire, at least five people died Wednesday in Israeli strikes in the south, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry and state news agency.
Elsewhere in southern Leba -
non, Israeli forces withdrew from a strategic town and handed it back to the Lebanese army in coordination with UN peacekeepers, the two militaries said. It appeared to be the first Israeli pullout from a Lebanese border town captured during the ground invasion.
In Syria, the Israeli military estimates it has destroyed 70 percent to 80 percent of Syrian military assets in recent days, according to an official speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss an intelligence assessment. The military has said it has carried out hundreds of airstrikes.
Evacuation orders in camp after rocket fire
MILITANTS in central Gaza fired four projectiles into Israel on Wednesday, two of which were intercepted, the military said. The other two fell in open areas, and there were no reports of casualties.
The military ordered the evacuation of a five-block area of the built-up Maghazi refugee camp in central Gaza, saying the rockets had been fired from there. The orders indicated that Israel would soon carry out strikes in the area.
The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 people, including children and older adults. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third believed to be dead.
Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed over 44,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to local health officials. They say women and children make up more than half the dead but do not distinguish between fighters and civilians in their count. Israel says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence.
Thousands more Palestinians have gone missing during the war, some after encounters with Israeli troops.
UN says Gaza civilians face ‘utterly devastating situation’ ISRAEL has been waging a renewed offensive against Hamas militants in Gaza’s heavily destroyed north since early October. Troops have surrounded Beit Lahiya, Beit Hanoun and the urban Jabaliya refugee camp, allowing in almost no humanitarian aid and ordering
South Korea opposition submit new motion to impeach President Yoon over martial law
By Hyung-Jin Kim & Kim Tong-Hyung The Associated Press
SEOUL, South Korea—South Korea’s parliament says the country’s six opposition parties have submitted a new joint motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over his declaration of martial law.
The National Assembly said the main opposition Democratic Party and five smaller opposition parties submitted the impeachment motion on Thursday afternoon.
The parties say they aim put the motion to a floor vote on Saturday.
Yoon’s short-lived December 3 martial law declaration has triggered political chaos and large protests calling for his ouster. The Democratic Party has argued that Yoon’s decree amounted to rebellion.
Earlier Thursday, Yoon defended his decree as an act of governance and denied rebellion charges.
He spoke hours before the main
opposition Democratic Party submits a new impeachment motion against him for a floor vote this weekend. Parliament on Thursday afternoon passed motions to impeach national police chief Cho Ji Ho and Justice Minister Park Sung Jae, suspending them from official duties, over their enforcement of martial law.
Yoon’s December 3 martial law declaration has generated political chaos and large protests calling for his ouster.
The decree brought hundreds of armed troops attempting to encircle parliament and raid the election commission, though no major violence or injuries occurred.
Martial law lasted only six hours as Yoon was forced to lift it after the National Assembly unanimously voted it down.
Yoon, a conservative, said he enacted martial law as a warning to the liberal Democratic Party, which controls parliament. He called the party “a monster” and “anti-state forces” that he said tried to use its legislative muscle to impeach top officials, undermined the government’s
tens of thousands to flee to nearby Gaza City. Israeli officials have said the three communities are mostly deserted, but the United Nations humanitarian office said Tuesday it believes around 65,000 to 75,000 people are still there, with little access to food, water, electricity or health care. Experts have warned that the north may be experiencing famine.
Sigrid Kaag, the senior UN humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator for Gaza, told reporters on Tuesday that civilians trying to survive all across Gaza face an “utterly devastating situation.” She pointed to the breakdown in law and order and looting that has left the UN and many aid organizations unable to deliver food and other humanitarian essentials to hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in need.
Kaag said she and other UN officials repeatedly ask Israel for access for convoys to northern Gaza and elsewhere, to allow in commercial goods, to reopen the Rafah crossing from Egypt in the south and to approve dual-use items.
The Israeli military says it allows in enough humanitarian aid and blames UN agencies for not distributing it, saying large amounts of aid have accumulated just inside Gaza’s borders. UN officials say Israeli restrictions, the breakdown of law and order and ongoing fighting make it difficult to access the aid and distribute it, and have repeatedly called for a ceasefire.
The United States, Egypt and Qatar have mediated talks between Israel and Hamas for nearly a year, and diplomats say those efforts have recently gained momentum.
But Hamas has said it will not release the remaining hostages without an end to the war and a full withdrawal of Israeli troops. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to continue the war until Hamas is destroyed and all the hostages are returned and has said Israel will maintain a lasting military presence in some areas.
Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writers Natalie Melzer in Nahariya, Israel, Josef Federman in Jerusalem and Edith Lederer at the United Nations contributed to this report.
budget bill for next year and sympathized with North Korea.
“I will fight to the end to prevent the forces and criminal groups that have been responsible for paralyzing the country’s government and disrupting the nation’s constitutional order from threatening the future of the Republic of Korea,” Yoon said.
“The opposition is now doing a sword dance of chaos, claiming that the declaration of martial law constitutes to an act of rebellion. But was it really?” he said. Yoon said martial law was an act of governance that cannot be the subject of investigations and doesn’t amount to rebellion. He said the deployment of nearly 300 soldiers to the National Assembly was designed to maintain order, not dissolve or paralyze it.
The Democratic Party quickly dismissed Yoon’s statement as “an expression of extreme delusion” and “a declaration of war against the people.” Kim Min-seok, head of a party task force, accused the president of attempting to incite pro-Yoon riots by farright forces. He said the Democratic Party will focus on getting the motion impeaching Yoon passed on Saturday.
Biden commutes 1,500 sentences and pardons
39 people in biggest single-day act of clemency
By Colleen Long The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—President
Joe Biden is commuting the sentences of roughly 1,500 people who were released from prison and placed on home confinement during the coronavirus pandemic and is pardoning 39 Americans convicted of nonviolent crimes. It’s the largest single-day act of clemency in modern history.
The commutations announced Thursday are for people who have served out home confinement sentences for at least one year after they were released. Prisons were uniquely bad for spreading the virus and some inmates were released in part to stop the spread. At one point, 1 in 5 prisoners had Covid-19, according to a tally kept by The Associated Press. Biden said he would be taking more steps in the weeks ahead and would continue to review clemency petitions. The second largest single-day act of clemency was by Barack Obama, with 330, shortly
before leaving office in 2017. “America was built on the promise of possibility and second chances,” Biden said in a statement. “As president, I have the great privilege of extending mercy to people who have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation, restoring opportunity for Americans to participate in daily life and contribute to their communities, and taking steps to remove sentencing disparities for non-violent offenders, especially those convicted of drug offenses.”
The clemency follows a broad
Trump will ring
pardon for his son Hunter, who was prosecuted for gun and tax crimes. Biden is under pressure from advocacy groups to pardon broad swaths of people, including those on federal death row, before the Trump administration takes over in January. He’s also weighing whether to issue preemptive pardons to those who investigated Trump’s effort to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and are facing possible retribution when he takes office.
Those pardoned Thursday had been convicted of nonviolent crimes such as drug offenses and turned their lives around, White House lawyers said. They include a woman who led emergency response teams during natural disasters; a church deacon who has worked as an addiction counselor and youth counselor; a doctoral student in molecular biosciences; and a decorated military veteran. The president had previously issued 122 commutations and 21 other pardons. He’s also broadly pardoned those convicted of use and simple possession of marijuana on federal lands and in the District of Columbia, and pardoned former US service members convicted of violating a now-repealed military ban on consensual gay sex.
Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass.,
and 34 other lawmakers are urging the president to pardon environmental and human rights lawyer Steven Donziger, who was imprisoned or under house arrest for three years because of a contempt of court charge related to his work representing Indigenous farmers in a lawsuit against Chevron.
Others are advocating for Biden to commute the sentences of federal death row prisoners. His attorney general, Merrick Garland, paused federal executions. Biden had said on the campaign trail in 2020 that he wanted to end the death penalty but he never did, and now, with Trump coming back into office, it’s likely ex -
New York Stock Exchange
bell; he’s named Time’s Person of the Year
By Michelle L. Price, Colleen Long & David Bauder
The Associated Press
NEW YORK—Donald Trump used his image as a successful New York businessman to become a celebrity, a reality television star and eventually the president. Now he will get to revel in one of the most visible symbols of success in the city when he rings the opening bell of the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday as he’s also named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year.
Trump is expected to be on Wall Street to mark the ceremonial start of the day’s trading, according to four people with knowledge of his plans. He will also be announced Thursday as Time’s 2024 Person of the Year, according to a person familiar with the selection. The people who confirmed the stock exchange appearance and Time award were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.
It will be a notable moment of twin recognitions for Trump, a born-and-bred New Yorker who at times has treated the stock market as a measure of public approval and has long-prized signifiers of his success in New York’s business world and his appearances on the covers of magazines—especially Time.
Trump was named the magazine’s Person of the Year in 2016, when he was first elected to the White House. He had already been listed as a finalist for this year’s award alongside Vice President Kamala Harris, X owner Elon Musk, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Kate, the Princess of Wales.
Time declined to confirm the selection ahead of Thursday morning’s announcement. “Time does not comment on
its annual choice for Person of the Year prior to publication,” a spokesperson for the magazine said Wednesday.
The ringing of the bell is a powerful symbol of US capitalism— and a good New York photo opportunity at that. Despite his decades as a New York businessman, Trump has never done it before.
It was unclear whether Trump, a Republican, would meet with New York’s embattled mayor, Democrat Eric Adams, who has warmed to Trump and has not ruled out changing his political party. Adams has been charged with federal corruption crimes and accused of selling influence to foreign nationals; he has denied wrongdoing.
Trump himself was once a symbol of New York, but he gave up living full-time in his namesake Trump Tower in Manhattan and moved to Florida after leaving the White House.
CNN first reported Wednesday Trump’s visit to the stock exchange and Politico reported that Trump was expected to be unveiled as Time’s Person of the Year.
The stock exchange regularly invites celebrities and business leaders to participate in the ceremonial opening and closing of trading. During Trump’s first term, his wife, Melania Trump, rang the bell to promote her “Be Best” initiative on children’s wellbeing.
Last year, Time CEO Jessica Sibley rang the opening bell to unveil the magazine’s 2023 Person of the Year: Taylor Swift.
After the November 5 election, the S&P 500 rallied 2.5 percent for its best day in nearly two years. The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged 1,508 points, or 3.6 percent, while the Nasdaq composite jumped 3 percent. All three indexes topped records they had set in recent weeks.
The US stock market has historically tended to rise regardless
of which party wins the White House, with Democrats scoring bigger average gains since 1945. But Republican control could mean big shifts in the winning and losing industries underneath the surface, and investors are adding to bets built earlier on what the higher tariffs, lower tax rates and lighter regulation that Trump favors will mean.
Trump has long courted the business community based on his own status as a wealthy real estate developer who gained additional fame as the star of the TV show “The Apprentice” in which competitors tried to impress him with their business skills. He won the election in part by tapping into Americans’ deep anxieties about an economy that seemed unable to meet the needs of the middle class.
The larger business community has applauded his promises to reduce corporate taxes and cut regulations. But there are also concerns about his stated plans to impose broad tariffs and possibly target companies that he sees as not aligning with his own political interests.
Trump spends the bulk of his time at his Florida home but was in New York for weeks this spring during his hush money trial there. He was convicted, but his lawyers are pushing for the case to be thrown out in light of his election.
While he spent hours in a Manhattan courthouse every day during his criminal trial, Trump took his presidential campaign to the streets of the heavily Democratic city, holding a rally in the Bronx and popping up at settings for working-class New Yorkers: a bodega, a construction site and a firehouse.
Trump returned to the city in September to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at his Manhattan tower and again in the final stretch of the presidential
campaign when he held a rally at Madison Square Garden that drew immediate blowback as speakers made rude and racist insults and incendiary remarks.
At the stock exchange, the ringing of the bell has been a tradition since the 1800s. The first guest to do it was a 10-year-old boy named Leonard Ross, in 1956, who won a quiz show answering questions about the stock market.
Many times, companies listing on the exchange would ring the bell at 9:30 a.m. to commemorate their initial offerings as trading began. But the appearances have become an important marker of culture and politics—something that Trump hopes to seize as he’s promised historic levels of economic growth.
The anti-apartheid advocate and South African President Nelson Mandela rang the bell, as has Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone with his castmates from the film “The Expendables.” So, too, have the actors Robert Downey Jr. and Jeremy Renner for an “Avengers” movie and the Olympians Michael Phelps and Natalie Coughlin.
In 1985, Ronald Reagan became the first sitting US president to ring the bell.
“With tax reform and budget control, our economy will be free to expand to its full potential, driving the bears back into permanent hibernation,” Reagan said at the time. “We’re going to turn the bull loose.”
The crowd of traders on the floor chanted, “Ronnie! Ronnie! Ronnie!”
The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed in 1985 and 1986, but it suffered a decline in October 1987 in an event known as “Black Monday.”
Long reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Josh Boak in Washington contributed to this report.
ecutions will resume. During his first term, Trump presided over an unprecedented number of federal executions, carried out during the height of the pandemic.
More pardons are coming before Biden leaves office on January 20, but it’s not clear whether he’ll take action to guard against possible prosecution by Trump, an untested use of the power. The president has been taking the idea seriously and has been thinking about it for as much as six months—before the presidential election—but has been concerned about the precedent it would set, according to people familiar with the matter who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss internal discussions.
South Korea. . .
Continued from A13
It’s unclear how Yoon’s comments will affect his fate. Opposition parties hold 192 seats combined, eight votes short of a twothirds majority of the 300 members of the National Assembly. The earlier attempt to impeach Yoon failed with most lawmakers from Yoon’s governing People Power Party boycotting the vote.
Yoon’s speech was expected to deepen a divide inside the PPP. When party chair Han Dong-hun, a critic of Yoon, called Yoon’s statement “a confession of rebellion” during a party meeting, Yoon loyalists angrily jeered and called on Han to stop speaking. Han has urged party members to vote in favor of Yoon’s impeachment.
Opposition parties and even some PPP members say the martial law decree was unconstitutional. South Korean law allows the president to declare martial law during wartime or similar emergencies, and they said such a situation did not exist. They argue that deploying troops to seal the National Assembly to suspend its political activities amounted to rebellion because the constitution doesn’t give a president such rights in any situation.
The country’s law enforcement authorities are investigating whether Yoon and others involved in imposing martial law committed rebellion, abuse of power and other crimes. A conviction for rebellion carries a maximum penalty of death.
The National Assembly on Thursday passed a bill that could introduce an independent counsel to investigate Yoon on rebellion charges without his approval. A bill it endorsed earlier this week on appointing an independent counsel requires Yoon’s approval.
The Justice Ministry on Monday placed an oversea travel ban on Yoon.
South Korean law gives a president immunity from prosecution while in office, except for allegations of rebellion or treason. This means that Yoon can be questioned and detained by investigative agencies over his martial law decree, but many observers doubt that authorities will forcefully detain him because of the potential for clashes with his presidential security service.
On Wednesday, Yoon’s presidential security service didn’t allow police to search the presidential office.
Yoon’s statement was seen as an about-
But those who received the pardons would have to accept them. New California Sen. Adam Schiff, who was the chairman of the congressional committee that investigated the violent Jan. 6 insurrection, said such a pardon from Biden would be “unnecessary,” and that the president shouldn’t be spending his waning days in office worrying about this. A president has the power to both pardon, in which a person is relieved of guilt and punishment, or commute a sentence, which reduces or eliminates the punishment but doesn’t exonerate the wrongdoing. It’s customary for a president to grant mercy at the end of his term, using the power of the office to wipe away records or end prison terms.
Before pardoning his son, Biden had repeatedly pledged not to do so. He said in a statement explaining his reversal that the prosecution had been poisoned by politics. The decision prompted criminal justice advocates and lawmakers to put additional public pressure on the administration to use that same power for everyday Americans. It wasn’t a very popular move; only about 2 in 10 Americans approved of his decision, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.
face. Last Saturday, he apologized over declaring martial law and said he wouldn’t avoid responsibility for it. He said he would leave it to his party to chart a course through the political turmoil, “including matters related to my term in office.”
On Wednesday, Yoon’s former defense minister, Kim Yong Hyun, was arrested on allegations of playing a key role in a rebellion and committing abuse of power. The national police chief, Cho, and the head of Seoul’s metropolitan police have been detained while their actions of sending police forces to the National Assembly are investigated as a criminal matter. Park, the impeached justice minister, has faced suspicions raised by the opposition that he was involved in the planning and execution of Yoon’s martial law decree. Park has denied the accusations. Kim, who resigned after martial law was lifted, is one of Yoon’s close associates. He has been accused of recommending martial law to Yoon and sending troops to the National Assembly to block lawmakers from voting on it. He tried to kill himself in detention, but correctional officers stopped him and he was in stable condition, according to the Justice Ministry. In his speech Thursday, Yoon said he had discussed imposing martial law only with Kim before he informed other top officials about it at a Cabinet meeting just before its declaration.
On the night of December 3, besides the National Assembly, Yoon and Kim sent troops to the National Election Commission. That raised speculation that he might have tried to seize computer servers at the commission, as he believed unfounded rumors that the results of April’s parliamentary elections, in which his party suffered steep losses, were rigged. Yoon said he asked Kim to examine the supposed vulnerabilities of the commission’s computer systems, which Yoon said was hampering the credibility of election results. He accused the commission of resisting a thorough inspection by Seoul’s spy agency following a cyberattack attributed to North Korea-backed hackers last year. If Yoon is impeached, his presidential powers would be suspended until the Constitutional Court decides whether to remove him from office or restore his powers. If he is dismissed, a new presidential election would be required within 60 days.
PRESIDENT Joe Biden speaks at the White House Conference on Women’s Health Research from the East Room of the White House in Washington on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. AP/SUSAN WALSH
US hikes tariffs on imports of China’s solar wafers, polysilicon and tungsten products
By Elaine Kurtenbach Ap Business Writer
BANGKOK—The Biden administration plans to raise tariffs on solar wafers, polysilicon and some tungsten products from China to protect US clean energy businesses.
The notice from the US Trade Representative’s office said tariffs on Chinese-made solar wafers and polysilicon will rise to 50 percent from 25 percent and duties on certain tungsten products will increase from zero to 25 percent, effective on Jan. 1, following a review of Chinese trade practices under Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act.
The decision followed a public comment period after the USTR said in September that it was considering such actions.
“The tariff increases announced today will further blunt the harmful policies and practices by the People’s Republic of China,” USTR Katharine Tai said in a statement. “These actions will complement the domestic investments made under the Biden-Harris Administration to promote a clean energy economy, while increasing the resilience of critical supply chains.”
Reports Thursday said US and Chinese officials were meeting this week and next for trade talks
ahead of the year’s end. China’s Commerce Ministry took aim Thursday at the approval by the House of Representatives of a defense spending bill that includes $3 billion in funding for removal from US networks of telecoms equipment provided by Chinese firms, including Huawei and ZTE.
“The United States’ claim that Chinese information and communication products pose security risks is completely baseless,” ministry spokesperson He Yadong told reporters at a routine briefing. “We hope that the US will respect facts and stop politicizing and weaponizing economic and trade issues. China will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises,” He said without elaborating.
Last week, Washington tightened restrictions on Chinese access to advanced semiconductor technology. Beijing responded by banning exports to the US of cer -
tain critical minerals needed to make computer chips, such as gallium, germanium and antimony. It also stepped up its controls on graphite exports to the US.
China provides a very large share of most of those materials and the United States has been working to secure alternative sources in Africa and other parts of the world.
Tungsten is another strategically vital metal whose production is dominated by China. The US does not produce it, but South Korea is a potential big supplier. It’s used to make armaments and is also used in x-ray tubes and light bulb filaments, among other industrial applications. US imports of the metal from China fell to $10.9 million in 2023 from $19.5 million the year before.
After Beijing announced its ban on exporting gallium and the other materials to the United States, analysts said tungsten was another likely area where China might strike back.
Trade frictions have been escalating ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to impose 60 percent tariffs on Chinese goods, among other threats. President Joe Biden has said Trump’s promise of broad tariffs on foreign imports would be a mistake.
His administration has kept in place tariffs that Trump imposed during his first term in office, but says it has a more targeted approach.
China has sharply ramped up production of cheap electric
vehicles, solar panels, and batteries at a time when the Biden administration has championed moves to support those industries in the US.
The US and other trading partners say China improperly subsidizes exports, giving exporters of solar panels and other products an unfair advantage in overseas markets, where its manufacturers charge lower prices thanks to government support. Washington also says China improperly pressures foreign companies to hand over technology.
China accounts for more than 80 percent of the market for solar
Ontario premier says US energy exports will be cut off if Trump imposes sweeping tariffs on Canada
TBy Rob Gillies The Associated Press
ORONTO—The premier of Canada’s most populous province said Wednesday he will cut off energy to the United States if President-elect Donald Trump imposes sweeping tariffs on all Canadian products. Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tax on all products entering the US from Canada and Mexico unless they stem the flow of migrants and drugs.
“We’re going to put our list together, and I’m sure the other provinces will as well. But we will go to the full extent, depending on how far this goes. We will go to the extent of cutting off their energy,” Ontario Premier Doug Ford said after meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other provincial premiers.
Ford said he didn’t want this to happen but wasn’t optimistic Canada could avoid tariffs.
“This fight is 100% coming on Jan. 20 or Jan. 21,” he said, referencing to the date of Trump’s inauguration.
“We will use every tool in our toolbox to fight back. We can’t sit back and roll over. We just won’t as a country. And isn’t this a shame, our closest friends and allies.”
About 60% of US crude oil imports are from Canada, and 85% of US electricity imports as well.
for the Canadian economy, but it would also mean real hardship for Americans.
Economists say companies would have little choice but to pass along the added costs, dramatically raising prices for food, clothing, automobiles, alcohol and other goods.
The Produce Distributors Association, a Washington-based trade group, has said tariffs will raise prices for fresh fruit and vegetables and hurt US farmers when the countries retaliate.
Canada imposed duties in 2018 against the US in a tit-for-tat response to new taxes on Canadian steel and aluminum.
panels at all stages of production, according to the International Energy Agency, more than double domestic demand for those products. Its huge economies of scale have made solar power more affordable, but also concentrated the supply chain inside China. The IEA has urged other countries to assess their solar panel supply chains and develop strategies to address any risks.
In early 2018, the Trump administration imposed 30 percent tariffs on imports of Chinese solar panels. Beijing filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization charging that the US
was unfairly supporting electric vehicle purchases. The investigation that led the USTR to raise the tariffs on solar panels concluded with a report in May that has prompted increases in tariffs on a range of products including electric vehicles, syringes and needles, medical gloves and facemasks, semiconductors and steel and aluminum products, among others.
It has pushed tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles up to 100 percent from 25 percent, raised tariffs on Chinese-made lithium batteries to 25 percent from 7.5 percent.
Trump and Biden teams insist they’re working hand in glove on foreign crises
By Aamer Madhani & Zeke Miller The Associated Press
WASHINGTON—Donald Trump doesn’t think much of Joe Biden’s foreign policy record. The Republican president-elect frequently casts the outgoing Democratic president as a feckless leader who shredded American credibility around the world during his four-year term.
But a funny thing happened on Trump’s way back to the White House: The Biden and Trump national security teams have come to an understanding that they have no choice but to work together as conflicts in Gaza, Syria and Ukraine have left a significant swath of the world on a knife’s edge.
former President Barack Obama, for failing to enforce his own “red line” in 2013 after Assad deployed chemical weapons that killed hundreds of civilians, and laying the groundwork for Islamic militants to establish a beachhead in the country. But amid the hectoring of Biden, Trump team officials acknowledge that the Biden White House has worked diligently to keep Trump’s circle apprised and help ensure there is a smooth handoff on national security matters.
“Premier Ford can only speak on behalf of Ontario, but its an area of provincial jurisdiction that we would certainly look at,” Lee said in an e-mail.
Lee noted Ontario powered 1.5 million homes in the US in 2023 and is a major exporter of electricity to Michigan, Minnesota and New York.
Trump’s transition team did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the threat.
Canada is also the largest foreign supplier of steel, aluminum and uranium to the US and has 34 critical minerals and metals that the Pentagon is eager for and investing for national security.
“Canada, of course, will respond to unjustified tariffs,” Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said after the meeting.
Freeland said a number of provincial premiers voiced support for a robust response to the tariffs and
It wasn’t immediately clear if Ford was talking about all Canadian provinces cutting off energy exports to the US or just his province. But a spokeswoman for Ford, Grace Lee, said it was raised in the call between Trudeau and the provincial premiers.
said that included critical minerals that are exported to the US.
She didn’t specifically mention oil but said “obviously other ideas were discussed as well” when asked if Canada is considering cutting off oil exports to America.
About a third of Canada’s trade to the US is energy.
Nearly $3.6 billion Canadian (US $2.7 billion) worth of goods and services cross the border each day. Canada is the top export destination for 36 US states.
Canada has promised more border security spending to address Trump’s concerns. Ford said that will include more border and police officers as well as drones and sniffer dogs.
“A priority will be to share details of this plan with the incoming Trump administration and with Canadians in the coming days,” Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc said.
Trudeau said this week tariffs would be “absolutely devastating”
Canada’s central bank, meanwhile, lowered its key interest rate by half a percentage point on Wednesday and called Trump’s threat to impose sweeping new tariffs on Canada “a major source of new uncertainty.”
“We did underline that the threat of new tariffs on Canadian exports, particularly at the level suggested, that is a major source of new uncertainty,” Bank of Canada Tiff Macklem said at a press conference. “But the reality is we don’t know if those tariffs are going to be implemented.
“We don’t know if exemptions are going to be agreed on some parts, we don’t know at what level, we don’t know if Canada will take retaliatory measures.”
Trudeau, meanwhile, got the attention of billionaire Elon Musk, a big supporter of Trump, with comments he made Tuesday
It’s not clear how much common ground those teams have found as they navigate crises that threaten to cause more global upheaval as Trump prepares to settle back into the White House on Jan. 20, 2025.
“There is a deep conviction on the part of the incoming national security team that we are dealing with ... and on our part, directed from President Biden, that it is our job, on behalf of the American people, to make sure this is a smooth transition,” Biden’s national security adviser Jake Sullivan said during a weekend appearance at a forum in California. “And we are committed to discharging that duty as relentlessly and faithfully as we possibly can.”
To be certain, Trump and his allies haven’t let up on their criticism of Biden, putting the blame squarely on the shoulders of Biden and Democrats for the series of crises around the globe. The president-elect says Biden is responsible for the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, arguing that policies under his watch led to Hamas and Russia becoming emboldened. And shortly before Syria’s Bashar al-Assad’s government collapsed last week, Trump blamed Biden’s old boss,
“For our adversaries out there that think this is a time of opportunity that they can play one administration off the other, they’re wrong, and we are—we are hand in glove,” Mike Waltz, Trump’s pick for national security adviser, said in a Fox News interview last month. “We are one team with the United States in this transition.” While Trump rarely has a good word for the Democratic administration, there’s an appreciation in Trump world of how the Biden White House has gone about sharing critical national security information, according to a Trump transition official who was not authorized to comment publicly. The coordination is precisely how lawmakers intended for incoming and outgoing administrations to conduct themselves during a handover when they bolstered federal support for transitions. It’s already the most substantive handoff process since 2009, aides to Biden and Trump acknowledged, surpassing Trump’s chaotic first takeover in 2017 and his wide refusal to cooperate with the incoming Biden team in 2021.
Trump’s pick to serve as special envoy to the Middle East, Florida real estate developer Steve Witkoff, consulted with Biden administration officials as he recently traveled to Mideast to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed See “Foreign policy,” A16
THE sun sets over electric pylons along a solar farm near Weifang in eastern China’s Shandong province on March 22, 2024. AP/NG HAN GUAN
BANK of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem responds to a question during a news conference on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 in Ottawa, Ontario. ADRIAN WYLD/THE CANADIAN PRESS VIA AP
The World
Pentagon warns Russia may launch lethal new missile against Ukraine again soon
By Aamer Madhani, Lolita C. Baldor & Tara Copp
The Associated Press
ASHINGTON—Rus -
Wsia could launch its lethal new intermediate-range ballistic missile against Ukraine again soon, the Pentagon said Wednesday, as both sides wrestle for a battlefield advantage that will give them leverage in any negotiations to end the nearly 3-year war.
Sabrina Singh, Pentagon spokeswoman, told reporters in a briefing that an attack could be carried out “in the coming days.”
She added that the US does not consider this missile—called the Oreshnik—a game changer on the battlefield, but that the Russians are “trying to use every weapon that they have in their arsenal to intimidate Ukraine.”
She said the US is basing its warning on a new intelligence assessment, but she couldn’t provide any other details, including where Russia may strike.
US officials said earlier Wednesday that the US was seeing the Russians make preparations for another launch of the missile, which was used for the first time last month. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive information.
The threat comes as Presidentelect Donald Trump has vowed to end the war and Western allies suggest that negotiations to do so could begin this winter.
Singh said the US will continue to support Ukraine, including with additional air defense systems designed to protect the country against air assaults. Just days ago, the US promised close to $1 billion in new security aid to Ukraine, including munitions for air defense.
The Russian Defense Ministry also suggested that Moscow is prepared to retaliate because Ukraine used six US-made ATACMS missiles to strike a military air base in Taganrog in the southern Rostov region on Wednesday, injuring soldiers. It said two of the missiles were shot down by an air defense
Tariffs. . .
Continued from
lamenting that US voters selected Trump over Kamala Harris as president.
system and four others deflected by electronic warfare assets.
“This attack with Western longrange weapons will not be left unanswered and relevant measures will be taken,” the ministry said in a statement.
This isn’t the first time that US officials have warned of potential Russian action or strategic moves, in part as a diplomatic effort to message Moscow and possibly sway decisions.
In the run-up to Russia’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the US openly discussed intelligence that Russia was readying troops to move on Kyiv. And later publicly said Moscow was positioning operatives in eastern Ukraine to conduct a “false-flag operation” that would create a pretext for its troops to invade.
According to the US officials, Russia has only a handful of the Oreshnik missiles and they carry a smaller warhead than other missiles that Russia has regularly launched at Ukraine.
Russia first fired the missile in a Nov. 21 attack against the Ukrainian city of Dnipro. Surveillance camera video of the strike showed huge fireballs piercing the darkness and slamming into the ground at astonishing speed. It was the first time the weapon was used in combat.
Within hours of the attack on the military facility, Russian President Vladimir Putin took the rare step of speaking on national TV to boast about the new, hypersonic missile. He warned the West that its next use could be against Ukraine’s NATO allies who allowed
Kyiv to use their longer-range missiles to strike inside Russia.
The attack came two days after Putin signed a revised version of Russia’s nuclear doctrine that lowered the threshold for using nuclear weapons. The doctrine allows for a potential nuclear response by Moscow even to a conventional attack on Russia by any nation that is supported by a nuclear power.
That strike also came soon after President Joe Biden agreed to loosen restrictions on Ukraine’s use of American-made longerrange weapons to strike deeper into Russian territory, and just one day after the US said it was giving Ukraine antipersonnel mines to help it slow Russia’s battlefield advances.
“We believe that we have the right to use our weapons against military facilities of the countries that allow to use their weapons against our facilities,” Putin said at the time.
He also warned that the new missile could be used against other Ukrainian sites, including the government district in Kyiv, and last month said the General Staff of the Russian military was selecting possible future targets, such as military facilities, defense plants or decision-making centers in Kyiv.
The Russian president declared that, “while selecting targets for strikes with such systems as Oreshnik on the territory of Ukraine, we will ask civilians and nationals of friendly countries there to leave dangerous zones in advance.”
Putin has hailed Oreshnik’s capability, saying its multiple warheads that plunge to a target at Mach 10 are immune from interception and are so powerful that the use of several of them in one conventional strike could be as devastating as a nuclear attack.
Speaking Tuesday, Putin charged that “a sufficient number of these advanced weapon systems simply makes the use of nuclear weapons almost unnecessary.”
The Pentagon said the Oreshnik was an experimental type of intermediate-range ballistic missile, or IRBM, based on Russia’s RS-26 Rubezh intercontinental ballistic missile, or ICBM. They have said it is not technically a hypersonic missile as it does not have a hypersonic glide vehicle that propels the missile for most of the launch and re-entry.
Intermediate-range missiles can fly between 500 to 5,500 kilometers (310 to 3,400 miles). Such weapons were banned under a Soviet-era treaty that Washington and Moscow abandoned in 2019.
Fighting has escalated in the grinding war as both Russia and Ukraine scramble to get an upper hand in any coming negotiations.
Trump’s inauguration next month has also raised questions about how much support the US will continue to provide to Kyiv.
Trump has insisted in recent days that Russia and Ukraine immediately reach a ceasefire and said Ukraine should likely prepare to receive less US military aid. Writing on social media last weekend, Trump said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy “would like to make a deal and stop the madness.”
The Biden administration, meanwhile, announced a $988 million long-term aid package last weekend. That funding is on top of an additional $725 million in US military assistance, including counter-drone systems and HIMARS munitions, announced early last week that would be drawn from the Pentagon’s stockpiles to get them to the front lines more quickly. The US has provided Ukraine with more than $62 billion in military aid since Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
FBI director says he intends to resign before Trump takes office in January
By Eric Tucker The Associated Press
ASHINGTON—FBI Director
WChristopher Wray told bureau workers Wednesday that he plans to resign at the end of President Joe Biden’s term in January, an announcement that came a week and a half after Presidentelect Donald Trump said he would nominate loyalist Kash Patel for the job.
Wray said at a town hall meeting that he would be stepping down “after weeks of careful thought,” roughly three years short of the completion of a 10-year term during which he tried to keep the FBI out of politics even as the bureau found itself entangled in a string of explosive investigations, including two that led to separate indictments of Trump last year as well as inquiries into Biden and his son.
“My goal is to keep the focus on our mission—the indispensable work you’re doing on behalf of the American people every day,”Wray told agency employees. “In my view, this is the best way to avoid dragging the bureau deeper into the fray, while reinforcing the values and principles that are so important to how we do our work.”
The intended resignation was not unexpected considering that Trump had settled on Patel to be director and had repeatedly aired his ire at Wray, whom he appointed during his first term. But his departure is nonetheless a reflection of how Trump’s norm-breaking style has reshaped Washington, with the presidentelect yet again flouting tradition by moving to replace an FBI director well before his term was up and Wray resigning to avert a collision with the incoming administration.
“It should go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway—this is not easy for me,” Wray said. “I love this place, I love our mission, and I love our people—but my focus is, and always has been, on us and doing what’s right for the FBI.”
Wray received a standing ovation following his remarks before a standingroom-only crowd at FBI headquarters and some in the audience cried, according to an FBI official who was not authorized to discuss the private gathering by name and spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press.
federal government of “conspirators,” raising alarms that he might seek to wield the FBI’s significant investigative powers as an instrument of retribution against Trump’s perceived enemies.
Patel said Wednesday that he was looking forward to “a smooth transition. I will be ready to serve the American people on day one.”
It’s extremely rare for FBI directors to be ousted from their jobs before the completion of their 10-year terms, a length meant to insulate the agency from the political influence of changing administrations. But Trump has done it twice, placing Wray in the job in 2017 after firing Director James Comey amid an investigation into ties between Russia and the Republican president’s campaign. Despite having appointed Wray, Trump had telegraphed his anger with the FBI director on multiple occasions throughout the years, including as recently as the past week. In an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press” that aired Sunday, Trump said, “I can’t say I’m thrilled with him. He invaded my home,” a reference to the FBI’s 2002 search of Trump’s Florida property, Mar-a-Lago, for classified documents from Trump’s first term as president. That search, and the recovery of boxes of sensitive government records, paved the way for one of two federal indictments against Trump. The case, and another one charging him with plotting to overturn the 2020 election, have both been dismissed by the Justice Department special counsel that brought them in light of Trump’s November victory.
Attorney General Merrick Garland praised Wray for having “served our country honorably and with integrity for decades.” He said: “Under Director Wray’s principled leadership, the FBI has worked to fulfill the Justice Department’s mission to keep our country safe, protect civil rights, and uphold the rule of law.”
Natalie Bara, the president of the FBI Agents Association, said in a statement that Wray had led the FBI “through challenging times with a steady focus on doing the work that keeps our country safe. “
Throughout his seven years on the job, the self-professed “low-key, understated” Wray brought a workmanlike approach to the job, repeatedly preaching a “keep calm and tackle hard” mantra despite a steady drumbeat of attacks from Trump and his supporters.
Musk called Trudeau “insufferable” in a post on X. “Won’t be in power for much longer,” he wrote.
Ford also criticized Trudeau for the remarks.
“We were supposed to be on a steady if difficult sometimes march toward progress. And yet, just a few weeks ago, the United States voted for a second time to not elect its first woman president,” Trudeau said at a event sponsored by Equal Voice, an organization dedicated to improving gender representation in Canadian politics. “Everywhere, women’s rights and women’s progress is under attack—overtly and subtly.”
Foreign policy. . .
Continued from A15
bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, according to a US official who was not authorized to comment publicly about the sensitive talks and spoke on condition of anonymity.
Sullivan, who was to travel to Israel on Wednesday for talks with Netanyahu, has in turn kept Waltz in the loop about the Biden administration’s efforts at getting a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza before Trump’s inauguration.
Biden administration officials say that the two national security teams have also closely coordinated on Ukraine and Syria, though they have provided scant detail on what that coordination has looked like.
“Let me put it this way: Nothing that we’re doing and nothing that we’re saying are coming as a surprise to the incoming team,” White House national
security spokesman John Kirby said. “They will decide for themselves what policies they might want to keep in place, what approaches they might want to continue and which ones they won’t.”
Trump made clear during his campaign that he would move to end the war in Ukraine quickly once he came to office.
He called on Russian leader Vladimir Putin earlier this week to act to reach an immediate ceasefire with Ukraine.
But the Biden White House has begun gently—and publicly—making the case for how continued support for Ukraine lines up with Trump’s priorities. On Saturday, Sullivan pointed to comments made by Trump on social media to buttress the case that Biden’s push for continued support of Ukraine falls in line with the incoming president’s thinking.
Trump earlier that day had noted that Assad’s rule was collapsing because Russia “lost all interest in Syria because of Ukraine,
“They are not helpful at all. It was brought up a couple of times in our meeting,” Ford said. “Donald Trump was elected democratically. If you like him or you don’t like him that’s not our issue. We elect Canadians and it was not helpful whatsoever. I’m sure the prime minister got the message loud and clear.”
where close to 600,000 Russian soldiers lay wounded or dead, in a war that should never have started, and could go on forever.”
“Russia and Iran are in a weakened state right now, one because of Ukraine and a bad economy, the other because of Israel and its fighting success,” Trump said in the posting on Truth Social.
Sullivan underscored that Biden and Trump are in agreement that there should be no American boots on the ground in Syria and that the war in Ukraine was a major factor in Assad’s fall.
“I was a little bit struck by it—earlier in the post, he said part of the reason this is happening is because of Russia’s war against Ukraine,” Sullivan said of Trump. “And I think he even referenced the sheer scale of the casualties that Russia has suffered in Ukraine, and for that reason, they’re not in a position to defend their client, Assad. And on that point, we’re in vigorous agreement.”
Two days later in Washington, Sullivan made the case that Trump should bolster the little-known US International Development Finance Corporation that was created during the Republican’s first term.
The push for reauthorizing the foreign aid agency comes as Trump has promised to make massive cuts to the federal bureaucracy.
Trump signed into law the agency’s authority—tucked into a five-year reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration—to provide $60 billion in loans, loan guarantees and insurance to companies in developing nations.
Sullivan called the agency an effective tool for private-public partnerships, before allowing that “maybe I shouldn’t be the one” making the case “since I’m leaving, but I will give my advice anyway.”
“It was created as we’ve all noted, under the Trump administration,” Sullivan said in remarks at the agency’s annual conference.
Trump applauded the news on social media, calling it “a great day for America as it will end the Weaponization of what has become known as the United States Department of Injustice” and saying that Patel’s confirmation will begin “the process of Making the FBI Great Again.”
If confirmed by the Senate, Patel would herald a radical leadership transformation at the nation’s premier federal law enforcement agency. He has advocated shutting down the FBI’s Washington headquarters and called for ridding the
“It has been strengthened under the Biden administration. And as we look to DFC reauthorization next year, it has to remain a bipartisan priority.”
After Assad’s government fell, the Biden administration issued a warning to Iran not to speed up its nuclear program after one of its closest allies was toppled, declaring “that’ll never happen on our watch.” The US official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive topic, hinted at coordination on the matter with the Trump team.
The official said there had been “good discussions” with the incoming administration on the matter and there was an expectation the same policy would carry over.
Biden has also approved a new national security memorandum that is meant to serve as a road map for the incoming Trump administration as it looks to counter growing cooperation between China, Iran,
He also sought to avoid public conflict when possible with the Trump White House, distancing himself and his leadership team from the FBI’s Russia investigation over errors that took place before he took office and announcing dozens of corrective actions meant to prevent the recurrence of the surveillance abuses that plagued the inquiry.
North Korea and Russia, the White House announced Wednesday. Biden administration officials began developing the guidance this summer. It was shaped to be a document that could help the next administration build its approach from Day 1 on how it will go about dealing with the tightening relationships between the United States’ most prominent adversaries and competitors, according to two other senior administration officials. One of those officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity under ground rules set by the White House, sought to assure the incoming Trump team that the Biden White House effort “isn’t trying to box them in or tilt them toward one policy option or another.”
Instead, the official said, it’s about helping the next administration build “capacity” as it shapes its policies on some the most difficult foreign policies it will face.
JOURNALISTS at a center for forensic analysis in an undisclosed location in Ukraine on November 24, 2024 film fragments of what authorities in Kyiv described as a Russian hypersonic missile that struck a factory in Dnipro, Ukraine on November 21. AP/EVGENIY MALOLETKA
BusinessMirror Sports
Paris: Far less polluting than previous Olympics
PARIS—The Paris Olympics says it was far less polluting than recent Games but is not claiming to have been “carbon neutral” despite funding projects to compensate for its emissions.
Organizers said Wednesday that this summer’s Olympics and Paralympics generated 1.59 million tons of climatewarming carbon dioxide, from the food athletes ate and construction of their rooms to flights that spectators took and energy that powered events.
A ccording to a French government carbon-impact calculator, 1.59 million tons of CO2 is equivalent to driving a car 182,675 times around the globe or 898,305 return flights between Paris and New York.
Still, Paris Games organizers said they more than met their goal of slashing the Olympics’ pollution footprint by half—announcing a 54.6 percent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the London Olympics in 2012 and the Rio de Janeiro Games in 2016.
Here’s a look at how they did it and tips they offered to future hosts,
starting with the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics and the next Summer Games in Los Angeles in 2028:
Thinking ahead about CO2
PARIS organizers said thinking about carbon emissions far in advance of the Games and setting a reduction target were key. Those who led the task of planning and organizing the mega-event were given carbon budgets. Measures to slash emissions were built into plans from the start. “ To change things, we had to reinvent,” said Georgina Grenon, the Games’ director of environmental excellence.
No reduction too small
JUST as athletes seek ways to shave milliseconds off their times, Paris organizers sought not just big carbon savings—by building just one competition venue specifically for the Games—but smaller ones, too.
The Olympic cauldron used electricity and LED spotlights to give the impression of being ablaze. That made it 300 times less polluting than if it had burned gas, Grenon said. Even Olympic medals included recycled materials, with each embedded with a reused chunk of the Eiffel Tower. E lectricity powered 98.4 percent of the Games’ energy needs and organizers said a purchasing
agreement they signed with power supplier EDF ensured it was all solaror wind-generated.
Plant-based hot dogs and other vegetarian offerings less carbonintensive than meat dishes accounted for 40 percent of the food that spectators ate, and the carbon footprint of meals served to Games workers and volunteers was half that of the typical French meal, organizers said.
Spectators inflated carbon bill IN selling 12.1 million tickets, Paris set attendance records. But transporting spectators to the French capital and to events came at an unexpectedly large carbon cost. Transport had been expected to account for about one-third of Paris’ carbon footprint, but organizers said it ended up accounting for 53 percent.
We were a bit victims of our success, because we sold many more tickets than initially estimated,” Grenon said.
Just over 66 percent of spectators came from France. More than 21 percent came from elsewhere in Europe and another 12 percent came from further afield, led by ticketholders from the United States, Brazil and Canada. For spectators who took long-haul flights, the carbon impact was about 1,000 times greater than transporting those from the Paris region, organizers said.
Paris don’t claim ‘carbon neutral’ ORGANIZARS said they are spending just over 12 million euros ($12.6 million) on projects in Africa, Asia, Central America and France that aim to compensate for the Games’ 1.59 million tons of carbon emissions.
T he money is funding tens of thousands of less-polluting cooking stoves and access to water in Nigeria, Congo, Kenya and Rwanda, solar power in Senegal and Vietnam and forestation in Guatemala, Kenya, Senegal and France, organizers said.
But Grenon said that while the projects aim to compensate for emissions, Paris won’t label its Games “carbon neutral” because that can be misleading. It can give the impression that there is no impact when there is an impact,” she added. “There was an impact but we treated it and, most of all, we reduced it.”
MVP KQ in one of his finest Kevin Quiambao plays true to form as back-to-back season Most Valuable Player as he delivers the key points in De La Salle’s 76-75 thriller of a Game 2 victory over University of the Philippines on Wednesday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena that sends the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Finals series to a Game 3 this Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Quiambao finishes with 22 points on 7 of 14 shooting with nine rebounds, two assists and a steal.
Serdar Bayramov in 43 moves of a Queen’s Pawn game in the seventh and final round, was tied for first with Mongolian Fide Master Khishigbat Ulziikhishig on 5.5 points but took the gold via tiebreak. The better tiebreak hinged on Arca’s third-round victory over Khishigbat, his fifth straight win in the tournament, that cushioned the impact of the 15-year-old Panabo City bet’s sixth-round defeat to China’s Cao Qingfeng.
It was the third gold for Arca, who also reigned supreme in individual and team blitz alongside Lemuel Jay Adena and Oscar Joseph Cantela Tuesday. Th e Filipino athletes also clinched three silver and three bronze medals courtesy of Arleah Cassandra Sapuan, Kate Nicole Ordizo and Beatrice Ann Bombales in the girls’ under-17 rapid division.
Rosario makes Gin Kings more comfortable–Coach
By Josef Ramos
INE points and seven rebounds in a Barangay Ginebra San Miguel uniform—never a bad debut, said Gin Kings head coach Tim Cone of recent recruit, former TNT, Blackwater and Gilas Pilipinas reliable Troy Rosario.
n fact, Rosario was a missing puzzle for the team, added Cone after Ginebra’s 109-100 win over NLEX last Wednesday in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner’s Cup at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
Troy [Rosario] gets everybody back to comfortable positions. He is an important piece of the puzzle for us,” Cone said. “Troy coming in and playing the 4 and 3 positions allows Justin [Brownlee] on the opposite side and takes off some of the load
Tim Cone
in rebounding.”
The 6-foot-7 sweet-shooting power forward is a nine-year league veteran whose basketball smarts began when he helped National University to its first University Athletic Association of the Philippines crown.
N ow that he’s been there, done that and doing this in the PBA, Rosario indeed fits to Cone’s system where stats hardly matter against a player’s role in the team.
“ Troy’s the last piece of the puzzle that allows Justine to complete the picture,” Cone said. “So that to me is the key to his addition, not necessarily on that he’ll do for us game in and game out…he’ll do a lot of things for us that allow everybody to be comfortable.”
“ He also brings back Stephen Holt to comfortable guard position,” he added.
R osario averaged 13.5 points for Blackwater last conference and in his Ginebra debut, he went 4 of 11 from the field.
Brownlee, meanwhile, delivered 24 points and 12 rebounds while Holt made 26 points and Japeth Aguilar and Maverick Ahanmisi 15 and 13 points, respectively, against NLEX.
R osario gets a chance to be in the Ginebra mix even more when the Gin Kings battle the Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
San Miguel Beer tries to halt a twogame slide when it meets Terrafirma at 5:30 p.m. also on Friday.
T he Beermen recently swapped Terrence Romeo and Vic Manuel for the Dyip’s Juami Tiongson and Andreas Cahilig.
The Dyip are looking for their first win in the conference in five games with import Brandon Edwards.
Dragon boat team best performer in November
HE national dragon boat team showed the way as Philippine athletes again sparkled in various fronts in November. he paddlers made waves in the International Canoe Federation Dragon Boat World Championships in Puerto Princesa City with a bountiful harvest of 11 gold, 20 silver and eight bronze medals.
is fiery showing off the Puerto Princesa City Bay Walk catapulted the host team to the overall championship ahead of Thailand (8-0-0 gold-silverbronze), Individual Neutral Athletes (6-3-3) and 21 other nations. Thus the paddlers earned the
Philippine Sportswriters Association’s nod as the top achievers for the penultimate month of 2024. Stalwarts from other team and individual sports also struck it big and gave honors to the country. Gilas Pilipinas men beat world No. 22 New Zealand for the first time in FIBA competition, 93-89, then followed it up with a 93-54
ENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go supports naturalized athletes enjoying their rights as ordinary Filipinos but raised concerns about potential “mismatches” if they’re allowed to compete as locals in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) All-Filipino Cup. peaking during a public hearing of the Senate Committee on Justice on Tuesday, he emphasized the importance of fairness and preserving the competitive spirit of the league.
“I’ve been a PBA fan for the last 43 years, when I was seven, I already watched games at the Araneta [Coliseum], I don’t want to lose the excitement because of the possible mismatch,” Go said. While supporting naturalized players being recognized as Filipinos under the law, Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, called for a nuanced approach to their inclusion in domestic basketball leagues. e noted the contributions of players like Justin Brownlee, Andray Blatche, Ange Kouame and Marcus Douthit, who have brought honors to the country on the international stage. owever, he emphasized the need to avoid scenarios that could disrupt competitive balance in local competitions.
iting Article IV, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution, Go highlighted that naturalized citizens should enjoy the same rights and privileges as natural-born Filipinos.
Naturalization is a legal process that grants individuals the rights and privileges of citizenship,” he said. “If they become naturalized citizens, they pledge their allegiance to our country and they accept our culture and values, so it’s only proper to treat them as Filipinos.”
o also referenced Supreme Court rulings, including Dennis Go v. Republic of the Philippines and International School Alliance of Educators v. Hon. Quisumbing, which affirm fairness and justice, ensuring naturalized individuals are not subjected to discriminatory practices.
W hile advocating inclusivity, Go raised concerns about how treating naturalized players as locals could affect the dynamics of the PBA.
Take the case of Justin Brownlee, if he becomes a local player, and Ginebra has another import, it’s like the team has two imports,” he warned. He also pointed out the increasing skill level of local players like June Mar Fajardo and Kai Sotto, who can already compete effectively with imports.
Despite this, allowing multiple naturalized players to play as locals could create a competitive imbalance, reducing the league’s excitement and appeal.
P BA deputy commissioner Eric Castro clarified that the league currently has three player categories: local or homegrown talents, foreign players with Filipino lineage and imports.
He noted that there is no specific category for naturalized players, so they are classified as imports and referenced the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) rule, which allows only one naturalized player per team, as seen with Brownlee and past players like Douthit and Blatche. C astro also emphasized that creating a separate category for naturalized players in the PBA might disrupt the competitive balance among the league’s 12 teams.
W hile acknowledging the complexities, he assured that the PBA would look into the matter. Jong Uichico of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) stated that the SBP’s
TROY ROSARIO debuts in a Barangay Ginebra San Miguel uniform with nine points and seven rebounds.
CHRISTIAN GIAN KARLO ARCA poses with his trophy and gold medal he won in Bangkok.
PHL’s trade deficit: Cause for concern or sign of growth?
THe recent data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reveals a concerning trend: the country’s trade deficit widened to $5.8 billion in October 2024, marking the largest gap in 26 months. While this figure may raise concerns, it is essential to grasp the bigger picture before sounding the alarm. (Read the BusinessMirror story: Trade gap widest in 26 months, hits $5.8 billion in October, December 11, 2024).
The trade deficit reflects the difference between a nation’s imports and exports. A significant trade gap can signal underlying economic issues, especially if it indicates excessive consumption without corresponding production. However, World Bank Lead Economist Gonzalo Varela offers a more nuanced perspective. He emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between deficits driven by consumption versus those fueled by investment. Investment-driven deficits can indicate a growing economy, as businesses ramp up imports to support expansion.
October’s figures show a 36.8 percent increase in the trade deficit from the previous year, yet this is not inherently alarming. The growth of imports by 11.2 percent, alongside a decline in exports by 5.5 percent, suggests that while the country is purchasing more, it is not necessarily a sign of economic decline. Instead, it could reflect robust investment, positioning the Philippines for future growth.
Varela’s observations about financing conditions are especially relevant. A trade deficit becomes a concern when a country struggles to finance it. This is not true for the Philippines, where the current economic climate features favorable financing conditions. This indicates that while the trade gap is widening, the economy remains resilient. The government and financial institutions appear well-equipped to manage these shifts, mitigating potential risks associated with a growing deficit.
The decline in export sales, which fell to $6.16 billion, is noteworthy. This drop raises questions about the competitiveness of Philippine goods in the global market. The United States continues to be our top export destination, but reliance on a few key markets can be precarious. Diversifying export markets could enhance stability and reduce vulnerability to external shocks.
On the import side, China remains our largest supplier of goods. As the Philippines continues to import vital goods, including machinery and raw materials, it is essential to ensure that these imports contribute to domestic production and long-term economic growth.
Notwithstanding the growing trade deficit, the Philippine economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with steady growth. Nonetheless, as the global market undergoes significant changes, the country must proactively adapt by making targeted investments in infrastructure, technology, and education to preserve its competitive advantage.
While the widening trade deficit in October is a signal worth monitoring, it is crucial to avoid knee-jerk reactions. Varela’s analysis underscores the importance of examining the underlying economic factors. If the deficit is indeed fueled by increased investment, as suggested, then it may be a temporary phenomenon reflecting a healthy, expanding economy. However, continued monitoring of investment levels, consumption patterns, and financing conditions is vital to ascertain the long-term implications of this trend. We need to confirm whether this widening gap signifies a sustainable path towards growth or a harbinger of future economic challenges.
BusinessMirror
Protection of trade secrets
CA n a tomato-based chicken curry dish recipe be a subject of a case of patent infringement, trade secret theft, and passing off?
This is an issue that was touched upon during the mock trial session “Story of a Not-So-Ordinary Chicken Dish” of the 76th Council Meeting of the Asian Patent Attorneys Association (APAA) at the SMX Convention Center and Conrad Hotel in Pasay City, Metro Manila from November 18 to 21, 2024.
Complainant company DESI claimed that respondent SWAD infringed on its patent for a tomato-based chicken curry dish (TOMATO CHICKEN-9), arguing that SWAD’s newly launched Tomato Chicken-7 uses the same ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes, which was central to DESI’s patented recipe.
DESI contended that SWAD’s use of San Marzano tomatoes constitutes theft of trade secrets, as the identification and procurement of these tomatoes, along with the cooking temperatures, were kept confidential by DESI until the patent was published in 2021.
DESI also claimed that the recipe and process were proprietary secrets, protected under non-disclosure agreements.
T. Anthony C. Cabangon
Lourdes M. Fernandez
Jennifer A. Ng Vittorio V. Vitug
Lorenzo M. Lomibao Jr., Gerard S. Ramos
Lyn B. Resurreccion, Dennis D. Estopace
Angel R. Calso
Ruben M. Cruz Jr.
Eduardo A. Davad Nonilon G. Reyes
D. Edgard A. Cabangon
Benjamin V. Ramos
Aldwin Maralit Tolosa
Rolando M. Manangan
BusinessMirror
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DESI stressed that these trade secrets were known only by one employee who was contractually obligated to keep it confidential, but such employee was poached by SWAD, which soon thereafter launched its Tomato Chicken-7 dish.
On the other hand, SWAD asserted that there was no patent infringement since the features of DESI’s invention—such as the selection of San Marzano tomatoes—are natural properties of the tomatoes; while the rest of the recipe were well known by chefs.
SWAD argued that trade secrets cease to exist once a patent application is filed, and DESI had failed to demonstrate that any alleged trade secrets were adequately protected.
SWAD also denied any passing off, stating that “Tomato Chicken 9” is a descriptive name lacking any distinctive secondary meaning, and that the use of numerals in dish names, such as “Chicken 65” and “Tomato Chicken 7,” is common in the industry.
SWAD further contended that employees leaving one company to
join a competitor is a standard business practice and does not constitute dishonest conduct.
SWAD maintained that the naming and preparation of Tomato Chicken 7 were developed independently of DESI’s recipe.
In Air Philippines Corp vs. Pennswell Inc. (G.R. No. 172835 December 13, 2007), the Supreme Court defined a trade secret as a plan or process, tool, mechanism or compound known only to its owner and those of his employees to whom it is necessary to confide it. The definition also extends to a secret formula or process not patented, but known only to certain individuals using it in compounding some article of trade having a commercial value.
A trade secret may consist of any formula, pattern, device, or compilation of information that: (1) is used in one’s business; and (2) gives the employer an opportunity to obtain an advantage over competitors who do not possess the information.
Generally, a trade secret is a process or device intended for continuous use in the operation of the business, for example, a machine or formula, but can be a price list or catalogue or specialized customer list.
The Court stressed that trade secrets constitute proprietary rights.
The inventor, discoverer, or possessor of a trade secret or similar innovation has rights therein that may be treated as property, and ordinarily an injunction will be granted to prevent the disclosure of the trade secret by one who obtained the information “in confidence” or through a “confidential relationship.”
The Supreme Court cited the following factors to determine if an information is a trade secret:
(1) The extent to which the information is known outside of the employer’s business;
(2) The extent to which the information is known by employees and others involved in the business;
(3) The extent of measures taken by the employer to guard the secrecy of the information;
(4) The value of the information to the employer and to competitors;
(5) The amount of effort or money expended by the company in developing the information; and
(6) The extent to which the information could be easily or readily obtained through an independent source.
The Supreme Court underscored that trade secrets should receive greater protection from discovery, because they derive economic value from being generally unknown and not readily ascertainable by the public.
The protection of industrial property encourages investments in new ideas and inventions and stimulates creative efforts for the satisfaction of human needs.
It speeds up transfer of technology and industrialization, and thereby brings about social and economic progress. The protection of industrial secrets is inextricably linked to the advancement of our economy and fosters healthy competition in trade.
Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho is the Junior Partner of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan Law Offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez.com, or call 09088665786.
Germany set for snap election after Scholz kick-starts process
By Michael Nienaber & Arne Delfs
GermAn Chancellor Olaf Scholz filed a petition with the lower house of parliament requesting a confidence vote next monday that will trigger a snap election in late February.
Scholz surrendered his Bundestag majority last month when he sacked Finance Minister Christian Lindner of the Free Democrats due to a budget dispute, pulling the plug on his threeparty governing coalition.
The Social Democrat, who has run Europe’s biggest economy since late 2021, is exploiting a quirk of the constitution to force a national ballot on February 23, seven months earlier than the scheduled end of his term. It’s only the sixth time since World War II the confidence-vote mechanism has been invoked.
Whoever wins the election will face a host of challenges, including Russia’s almost three-year war on Ukraine, turmoil in the Middle East and the return of Donald Trump to the White House.
The next chancellor will also need to secure the funds to cover the massive investments needed for Germany’s transformation into a more technologically advanced and climate-friendly economy—and to pay for a military capable of defending the nation.
As well as effectively bringing down Scholz’s ruling alliance, the question of how much the government is allowed to borrow will be a key topic of the election campaign, along with irregular migration and Germany’s economic woes.
Scholz, whose SPD party is trailing in third in the polls, said voters have the chance to decide how the “big questions” facing Germany will be addressed.
“Do we trust ourselves as a pow-
erful nation to invest strongly in our future?” he asked Wednesday during a statement in Berlin.
“Will we secure jobs and modernize our industry? Will we make sure people have stable pensions, dependable health care and good nursing care? It will be about all these important questions when citizens mark their cross on the ballot paper.”
Scholz has been ruling in a minority administration with the Greens since he fired Lindner.
Once he loses Monday’s confidence vote, he can ask President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to dissolve the Bundestag and set the election date. Steinmeier, a former Social Democrat vice chancellor, has indicated that he’ll go along with Scholz’s timetable. Scholz used an interview on Tuesday with public broadcaster ARD to propose a reduction of sales tax on basic groceries to 5 percent from 7 percent to help lower-income households cope with persistently high inflation.
“This would help many people who earn very little money and would not be an excessive burden on the federal budget,” Scholz said. He expressed confidence that his SPD party can come from behind to win the election despite a big lead in the polls for the opposition conservatives. With just over two months to go, the CDU/CSU alliance under Friedrich Merz leads at around 31 percent, the far-right Alternative for Germany is second with about 18 percent and the SPD third at 17 percent, according to the latest Bloomberg polling average. The Greens are fourth with 13 percent and the BSW—a new far-left party founded in January—fifth at 5 percent. Lindner’s FDP remains in danger of missing the 5 percent threshold for getting into parliament with 4 percent.
The conservatives have ruled out cooperating with the AfD, meaning their only path to a Bundestag majority will likely be to team up with See “Germany,” A19
Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua
Amicus Curiae
Dennis Gorecho
Militant leader end game is big unknown in post-Assad Syria
By Sam Dagher & Henry Meyer
MiR ella aboU ShaNab, a Damascus-based TV presenter and producer, went into a pastry shop in the Syrian capital and saw armed islamist fighters eating ice cream and cake. one of them turned to her and asked if she was Christian, Druze or Shiite and whether that’s why she wasn’t wearing a veil.
“What I worry about is that this time it may be just a question, but next time action will be taken that may endanger my life and that of any girl or woman in Damascus,” she said in a live recording on Facebook late Tuesday, looking distraught and shaken.
While Syrians rejoice at the overthrow of ex-President Bashar al-Assad’s brutal dictatorship last weekend, concerns are mounting inside and outside the Arab nation at the pivotal role played by the onetime al-Qaeda affiliate that led the rebel offensive—and what they will do in power.
The new interim government, set to remain in place until March 1, is under the control of Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, or HTS, an Islamist group designated a terrorist organization by the US and other countries. Its leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa, known by his nom de guerre Abu Mohammed Al-Jolani, has sought to project a moderate image, and his interim prime minister has already met with foreign envoys in Damascus to promise a political transition.
HTS commanders have also reached out to religious and community leaders in captured areas to allay their fears, and Jolani issued a statement prohibiting his fighters from interfering in personal liberties, particularly those of women.
But Israel, for one, remains distrustful, mounting one of the biggest air attacks in its history to destroy as much as possible of the Syrian military’s capability. The country’s fighter planes have targeted chemical-weapons stocks, missile-storage sites and airbases and ships that might have been laden with weapons, looking to prevent them from falling into militant hands.
While the massive Israeli airstrikes have drawn Arab ire, the US says it supports the Syrian neighbor’s right to protect its borders.
The “jury is out” on HTS and Jolani, Mike Waltz, US President-Elect Donald Trump’s incoming national security advisor, said in a Fox News interview on Monday. “He’s not, at least so far, beheading former Assad regime officials or hanging them from bridges. They do seem to be sitting and talking, which is a very good initial first sign.”
“But President Trump and our team are watching very closely,” he added.
Islamic rule
IN a CNN interview last week, Jolani didn’t rule out introducing Islamic rule in Syria. “People who fear Islamic governance either have seen incorrect implementations of it or do not understand it properly,” he said. He rejected fears about the future of Syria’s minorities, saying they “have existed for hundreds of years and no one has the right to eliminate them.”
Inside Syria, suspicion of HTS has grown since Jolani abruptly fired the last Assad-appointed prime minister, after initially saying he should remain in place in an interim capacity. His replacement is Mohammed Al Bashir, who previously ran a quasi-
government in the northwestern rebel stronghold of Idlib.
Jolani appears to have sidelined other armed factions, including more moderate fighters from the south who were the first to enter Damascus on Saturday evening, sparking fears of looming infighting.
The outgoing Biden administration, which is claiming Assad’s ouster as a geopolitical win as it weakens the clout of the former Syrian dictator’s Iranian and russian allies, has so far taken a relatively neutral stance.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington could recognize a new Syrian government that respects minorities and destroys stocks of chemical and biological weapons. And the State Department said Monday the terrorist designation doesn’t bar US officials from speaking to leaders of HTS.
But it’s also worried about a potential resurgence of Islamic State, or ISIS, the US-designated terrorist group that took advantage of the early years of the Syrian civil war to conquer large swathes of territory in the east of the country and neighboring Iraq. The US, which helped beat back the group toward the end of last decade, launched about 75 airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria over the weekend.
Complicating the picture is Turkey’s insistence on the withdrawal of US-backed Kurdish armed fighters in northeast Syria, who it considers terrorists because of their links to separatists fighting for autonomy in Turkey’s southeast. The Kurdish militia is a key ally in the US-led fight against Islamic State and is helping guard prisons filled with the group’s fighters.
The presence of 900 US troops in Syria has helped to protect the Kurds, but there’s a chance Trump removes those forces as part of his drive to end US involvement in foreign conflicts. r ebel groups backed by Turkey have already pushed Kurdish forces out of two northern Syrian towns.
“The worst case scenario is Syria becomes the Somalia of the Middle East,” said retired Brig Gen Nitzan Nuriel, who used to head the counterterrorism department in the office of the Israeli Prime Minister. “Based on the experience in Afghanistan and Libya, we know that when regimes collapse and terror groups take over, there is a big chance they will take the ammunition systems and platforms and use them against neighbor states.”
A probe into potential Syrian nuclear-weapons activities has been interrupted by the ouster of Assad, the International Atomic Energy Agency said Wednesday, creating uncertainty for inspectors.
Many foreign-based Syrian opposition leaders, who have misgivings about Jolani’s first moves, are engaging with the rebels on the ground to try to shape what comes next.
“These are birth pains, it will take time,” said Ayman Abdel Nour, a Washington-based Syrian political opposition figure and commentator. With assistance from Dan Williams, Ethan Bronner, Selcan Hacaoglu and Thomas Hall/Bloomberg
US inflation in line with forecasts solidifies bets on Fed cut
By Augusta Saraiva
US consumer prices rose at a firm pace in November that was in line with expectations, solidifying expectations for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates next week.
The so-called core consumer price index—which excludes food and energy costs—increased 0.3 percent for a fourth straight month, Bureau of Labor Statistics figures showed Wednesday. From a year ago, it rose 3.3 percent.
Economists see the core gauge as a better indicator of the underlying inflation trend than the overall CPI that includes often-volatile food and energy costs. The headline measure rose 0.3 percent from the prior month and 2.7 percent from a year before.
The S&P 500 opened higher and Treasury yields declined after the CPI figures.
Shelter costs, one of the most persistent sources of inflation in recent years, cooled from the previous month, but the category still accounted for nearly 40 percent of the overall advance.
“Especially given the slowing in shelter, this should be very comfortable for the Fed to lower policy rates 25 basis points in December and continue cutting in 2025,” Citigroup Inc. economists Veronica
Clark and Andrew Hollenhorst said in a note.
While price pressures have subsided from a peak seen during the pandemic recovery, progress has leveled off more recently, prompting several central bankers to call for a more gradual pace of cuts going forward.
The CPI report showed goods costs excluding food and energy climbed 0.3 percent, the most since May 2023, fueled by household furnishings and apparel. That category had been a large driver of disinflation over the past year and a half.
Prices for hotel stays increased by the most in two years, while car prices picked up as well, possibly reflecting a temporary boost in demand after two hurricanes.
Grocery prices jumped 0.5 percent, the biggest advance since the start of last year.
Shelter costs
SHELTEr prices, the largest category within services, advanced 0.3 percent in November after a 0.4 percent gain in the prior month. Own-
ers’ equivalent rent as well as rent of primary residence—subsets of shelter—both edged up 0.2 percent, the smallest gains since 2021.
Excluding housing and energy, service prices rose 0.3 percent for a second month, according to Bloomberg calculations. While central bankers have stressed the importance of looking at such a metric when assessing the overall inflation trajectory, they compute it based on a separate index.
That measure—known as the personal consumption expenditures price index—doesn’t put as much weight on shelter as the CPI, which is one reason why it’s trending closer to the Fed’s 2 percent target.
A government report on producer prices due Thursday will offer insights into categories that feed directly into PCE, including healthcare services, airfares and portfolio management.
“November’s CPI report won’t do much to assuage growing anxiety within the FOMC that inflation’s progress back toward the 2 percent target has stalled somewhat. But the worried parties are a minority, and the majority likely see the past few months of elevated readings as a road bump,” said Bloomberg economists Anna Wong and Stuart Paul.
Policymakers also pay close attention to wage growth, as it can help
inform expectations for consumer spending—the main engine of the economy. A separate report Wednesday that combines the inflation figures with recent wage data showed real hourly earnings grew 1.3 percent from a year ago.
Part of the reason why Fed officials have indicated they’re in no rush to lower borrowing costs is because they no longer believe the labor market to be a source of inflation. Looking ahead, it remains to be seen to what extent President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda will weigh on the trajectory of inflation. While consumers’ views of the economy and their finances have improved since he sealed his return to the White House, many economists say some of his campaign promises could put additional pressure on inflation. Some businesses, for example, are considering raising prices in anticipation of higher tariffs. A rate cut next week “will allow the Fed to be nimble enough to tackle potential disinflationary headwinds in the new year, including continued stickiness within shelter costs, as well as policy shifts on tariffs, taxes, as well as immigration,” said Noah Yosif, chief economist at the American Staffing Association. With assistance from Chris Middleton, Matthew Boesler, Maria Clara Cobo, Craig Torres and Carter Johnson /Bloomberg
Thai PM vows to end business monopoly, plans more cash stimulus
By Suttinee Yuvejwattana
Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra pledged to end monopoly in some businesses as she unveiled her administration’s priorities for next year including plans for more cash handout to stimulate Southeast asia’s second-largest economy.
Some outdated Thai laws will be amended to usher in greater competition in areas such as rice exports and liquor production, Paetongtarn said in a televised address on Thursday to mark the completion of her administration first 90 days in office. The changes will benefit small and medium enterprises, especially in liquor manufacturing, she said.
Some of Thailand’s biggest industries, from retail to power and liquor, are dominated by a handful of local conglomerates. Paetongtarn’s promise to dismantle monopolies also echoes the campaign by People’s Party, the nation’s main opposition group.
“All kinds of monopolies either by private sector or the government increases cost for people and make them poorer,” Paetongtarn said. “The government believes that ending business monopoly is important.”
Paetongtarn, 38, became Thailand’s youngest prime minister in August when her predecessor Srettha Thavisin was ousted by a court order for an ethics violation. Her administration has focused on bolstering economic growth through a mix of cash handouts, ramping up state spending and drawing foreign investment in areas such as data centers, high-value electronics and electric vehicles manufacturing.
The government will continue a cash handout program next year with about 4 million senior citizens in line for 10,000 baht ($296) each by Chinese New Year at the end of January, Paetongtarn said. Authorities distributed about 145 billion baht to nearly 14.5 million welfare cardholders in September, saying the move will spur consumption and help manufacturing.
More than 30 million people had registered for the government’s socalled digital wallet scheme, the flagship program of ruling Pheu Thai Party that leads a multi-party coalition. A third phase of the program may be launched later next year, the premier said.
Paetongtarn is the third member of the influential Shinawatra clan to lead Thailand after her father Thaksin Shinawatra and aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. Her administration is focused on reviving growth that’s lagged the pace of its neighbors over the past decade and slashing the cost of living for the country’s about 66 million people.
Power tariff
THE government expects to lower electricity tariffs next year through restructuring of the local power industry, the prime minister said. An affordable housing program using land owned by the State r a ilway of Thailand will be launched to provide homes to first-time buyers, Paetongtarn said. Beneficiaries may lease a 30-square meter condominium for 99 years, paying 4,000 baht a month
for 30 years, she said. With parts of Thailand ravaged by the worst flooding in decades this year, Paetongtarn said her government will pursue an integrated water management strategy to prevent frequent floods and droughts. The government will also take steps to curb drug trafficking and address air pollution before the end of her government’s tenure in 2027, she said. The electricity and other power charges will likely be lower next year as the government plans to take steps to restructure power industry and reduce unnecessary costs, she said. The administration is also working on a flat fare of 20 baht for all rail mass transit system in the Bangkok Metropolitan area, she added.
On Wednesday, Paetongtarn’s administration unveiled steps to provide relief to millions of retail borrowers and small businesses struggling to pay off debt. The country’s household debt level calculated as a percentage of GDP at 89.6 percent is the highest in Southeast Asia and has been a major deterrent in boosting consumption and manufacturing. Bloomberg
Trump invites China’s Xi Jinping to inauguration, CBS says
By Jenny Leonard & Akayla Gardner
US President-elect Donald Trump has invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend his inauguration next month, CbS reported, citing multiple sources.
The invitation may signal an effort by Trump to court his Chinese counterpart just as he threatens fresh tariffs against the world’s second-largest economy.
Xi’s attendance, however, would be unprecedented: No Chinese leader has ever joined an inauguration ceremony of the US president, which is typically attended by ambassadors. No foreign head of state has attended one in more than a century, according to State Department records going back to 1874.
There would also be huge political risks to Xi for attending, as well as the potential discomfort of sitting outside for hours on a cold January day in Washington. Low temperatures during President Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration generated memes of politicians such as Senator Bernie Sanders, who sat huddled in a thick jacket, Covid mask and gloves on the inauguration stage.
Moreover, Trump regularly goes off-script during public speeches,
making surprise announcements and even jokes that sometimes don’t land. This week the president-elect referred to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as “governor” of the “Great State of Canada.” That came just days after the two leaders met in Florida following Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on both Canada and Mexico.
China’s Foreign Ministry didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
Trump said in an interview with NBC’s Meet the Press that aired last weekend that he had communicated with Xi recently, but declined to say what they had discussed. They last met in person in June 2019 on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit in Japan.
Trump has been meeting with and courting multiple foreign leaders, including during a trip to Paris last weekend when he met with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Biden hasn’t been to China during his term, partly due to travel disruptions during the Covid-19 pandemic. Leaders of the world’s two largest economies usually take turns to visit each other’s nation. If the pattern holds, it will be the US president’s turn to travel.
The US and China are bracing for a renewed standoff after Trump campaigned on implementing sweeping tariffs targeting all Chinese goods with 60 percent duties.
Last month, he vowed to impose an additional 10 percent duty if Beijing doesn’t help stem the flow of fentanyl that is coming across the US southern border.
Xi congratulated Trump following his election win and expressed his desire to keep relations stable, but has in other occasions sought to set boundaries with the incoming administration by talking up “four red lines” in bilateral ties.
Xi’s warning IN his final meeting with Biden, Xi warned against any move to undermine the Communist Party’s grip on power, push the nation toward democracy, contain its economic rise or encourage independence for Taiwan, the self-ruled island claimed by Beijing.
China is also ratcheting up trade tensions by banning the export of several materials with high-tech and military applications.
Earlier this week, Xi said trade and technology wars “will have no winners” while reiterating that Beijing is willing to maintain dialog and manage its differences with Washington. Trump has tapped a number of China hawks to lead the economic and security portfolios in his incoming administration. He has named r e presentative Mike Waltz as his national security adviser and is nominating Senator Marco rubio as secretary of State. Both have called Beijing an adversary and advocated for decoupling from its economy.
But Trump has also tapped former Senator David Perdue as his ambassador to China, enlisting a businessman with experience working in Asia, who stands to offer a potentially moderate voice on policy toward Beijing. In announcing that appointment, Trump said Perdue “will be instrumental in implementing my strategy to maintain Peace in the region, and a productive working relationship with China’s leaders.” With assistance from Airielle
13,
‘BSP rate cuts will benefit household savings in 2025’
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is expected to bring down rates further next year which will benefit household savings, according to ANZ Research.
In its quarterly research output, ANZ Research said the BSP will cut interest rates by 50 to 100 basis points next year, allowing households to regain their savings.
h o wever, ANZ Research said real rates will remain elevated in Indonesia, South Korea and the Philippines in 2025, amid the slowdown in inflation.
be more aligned to productivity growth next year.
most economies,” it added.
e a rlier, economists said the lack of a comprehensive strategy that allows the Philippines to address global headwinds and exploit opportunities at the same time will make it difficult for the administration to reach its growth goals.
BRITISH BUSINESSES URGE GOVT TO FOCUS ON PASSAGE OF 3 BILLS
By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan
The British Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (BCCP) is urging the government to prioritize the passage of the proposed Cybersecurity Act, e - Governance Act and Konektadong Pinoy Act next year as these will help in attracting more investments.
As for the proposed e - Governance Act, Nelson said this measure “institutionalizes” the government’s shift to e - Governance and provide citizencentered services.
Apart from BCCP’s goal to have these priority measures passed in 2025, the business group said it is focused on eliminating red tape.
“The efficacy of rate cuts in Indonesia and the Philippines will be limited by the need to rebuild household savings,” it said. The think tank said inflation is also expected to be “well behaved” due to lower prices of goods coming from China as well as “mediocre growth that restricts the ability of producers to raise prices.” It also said labor costs are expected to be lower next year as the growth of firms has slowed, particularly in countries like Singapore.
These will contribute to the slower growth being projected by ANZ Research for Asia, except China and India, next year.
Growth is expected to average only 3.5 percent in 2025 from 3.8 percent in 2024 on the back of moderate domestic demand and weaker exports.
“To some extent, our forecast reflects a continuation of recent trends in a variety of high frequency and quarterly indicators,” ANZ Research said.
This means, the think tank said, that wage growth will now
“For the region in aggregate, exports have slowed after peaking in August 2024. The slowdown in exports encompasses
In the years following 2020, the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Philippine economy enjoyed robust growth, even exceeding its historical GDP average of 6 percent in 2022 when the economy grew 7.6 percent. h o wever, this growth was fueled mainly by what Ateneo de Manila University economist Leonardo Lanzona Jr. said are unsustainable strategies that caused the country to keep trailing its neighbors.
Recently, the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) adjusted the government’s growth targets to 6 to 6.5 percent this year and 6 to 8 percent in 2025 to 2028.
“What we want to see in 2025, we want to get the Cybersecurity Act passed, the e - Governance Act, the Open Access in Data Transmission Act or the ‘Konektadong Pinoy Act’,” BCCP e x ecutive Director Chris Nelson said at a media briefing on Thursday. h e s aid the passage of the proposed Open Access in Data Transmission Act, also known as the “Konektadong Pinoy Act,” is key to improving the Philippine internet infrastructure, as this will narrow the digital divide and promote fair competition in the telecommunications sector. Nelson also underscored the importance of passing the proposed Cybersecurity Act, saying this measure aims to “uphold digital standards and practices to safeguard privacy and information.”
BCCP inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) in May 2024, which is seen to allow the group to receive complaints on red tape. Nelson said as an ARTA Champion, the BCCP can contribute to making the Philippines competitive in Southeast Asia.
“Now that we have been recognized as an ARTA Champion, we will continue to push these developments back to the UK, as part of the overall drive to keep on opening up the Philippine economy and make it as competitive with others in Southeast Asia,” he said. Meanwhile, Nelson said BCCP is hoping that the Philippines will “further liberalize the economy” next year.
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
December 13, 2024
US unit’s upsetting 2nd Qtr widens Del Monte’s net loss
By VG Cabuag @villygc
THE Campos-led Del Monte Pacific Ltd. (DMPL) announced that its net loss for its fiscal second quarter ending October widened to $22.2 million from the previous year’s $8.5 million due to unfavorable operations of its US unit.
and international sales of Del Monte Philippines, which is expected to do better in fiscal 2025 versus prior year,” read the company’s disclosure.
“We are encouraged by the robust performance of Del Monte Philippines, which reflects our effective strategies and market engagement. However, we acknowledge the challenges faced by our US business and are committed to addressing these issues,” DMPL COO Luis F. Alejandro said. “Our unwavering focus remains on executing our strategic priorities to enhance operational efficiency and financial results across all subsidiaries.”
restore gross margins, with key priority on its US unit.
DMPL will reduce by 30 percent its inventory levels through reduced pack season production. Del Monte Foods reduced inventory at the end of the second quarter by $250.2 million, which drove the $269 million inventory reduction of the group.
The company said the manufacturing footprint of its US unit is on track to be completed in the second half of this fiscal year. It will also reduce warehouse, distribution and operational costs.
Data center operators plan hike in power capacity on tech devt
By Bless Aubrey
THE Philippines will see a capacity increase of at least 1,364 megawatts (MW) in data centers by next year, with 161 MW expected to be completed between late 2024 and 2025, according to a real estate brokerage firm.
Based on the year-end report of Leechiu Property Consultants Inc., this growth is driven by increasing demand for digital infrastructure, spurred by the rapid adoption of technologies such as 5G and artificial intelligence (AI), along with the growing Internet usage in the Philippines.
Telecom Inc., contributes 35.2 MW, and smaller operators add another 25 MW to the total.
The country’s internet user base is also expanding, with 86.98 million people, or 73.6 percent of the population, now online. The Philippines ranks third globally in daily internet usage, averaging 8 hours and 52 minutes per day.
This is further boosted by the coverage of 5G technology, which now spans 482 cities and municipalities nationwide, enhancing internet speed and accessibility.
The net loss of California, United States-headquartered Del Monte Foods Inc. rose to $27 million for the period from the previous year’s $3.5 million. The US unit comprises about 69 percent of the company’s business Meanwhile, the income of Del Monte Philippines Inc., which comprises about 15 percent of DMPL’s revenues, almost doubled its net profit to $20.3 million, with its profit trajectory on track. For the fiscal first half, the company’s net loss also widened to $56.3 million from a net loss of $21.6 million in the previous year. According to DMPL, while it will incur a net loss during its fiscal year 2025, things will improve by 2026 through 2027.
The company said plans have commenced and are continuing for the selective sale of assets in the US; capital raising efforts are being worked on, it added.
“The group will continue to accelerate the resurgence of domestic
“The group intends to utilize the proceeds from these transactions and lower inventory levels to reduce debt in FY 2025,” it said.
The company said it will “actively”
“This is expected to benefit the group in FY2026 as actions are taken to reduce and streamline warehouse footprint and storage space,” the company said.
“DMFI will continue to drive the growth of its newer businesses (‘Joyba Boba Tea’ and ‘Kitchen Basics’) and growth channels foodservice and e-commerce. The group continues to relentlessly pursue all these initiatives,” it added.
Varela ends Megaworld director post
JESUS B. Varela, an independent director of property developer Megaworld Corp., on Thursday has relinquished his position in anticipation of the end of his nine-year term in the post.
Varela will focus on other directorship positions within the Alliance Global Group Inc., including Global-Estate Resorts Inc., Mreit Inc. and Travellers International Hotel Group Inc.
Ma. Milagros C. Yuhico will take over Varela’s post. Yuhico, 68, is an independent director at Mreit Property Managers Inc., and has held said position since 2021. Prior to joining Mreit Property, she rose from the ranks in Philippine Veterans Bank, serving for 20 years which ultimately led to the position of first vice president and head of trust and investment division.
Yuhico also served in various capacities in Peninsula Development Bank; Campomanes Realty and Development Corp.; CAPLIFE, representing CAP Trust Fund and BIC Investment Corp., representing CAP Trust Fund. A certified public accountant, Yuhico had extensive experience in the fields of accounting, audit, banking, trust and finance, having assumed positions and
advisory functions in relation to such fields.
She was a graduate of De La Salle University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and has taken a special course for trust at the Trust Institute Foundation of the Philippines.
Megaworld’s board has appointed Cresencio P. Aquino as lead independent director of the company. VG Cabuag
Auction for offshore wind project to begin
TBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
HE Department of Energy
(DOE) formally announced last Thursday the launch of the fifth green energy auction (GEA-5), exclusively dedicated to offshore wind (OSW) projects, scheduled to take place in the third quarter of next year.
In a statement, the DOE said the bidding process will begin with the release the Notice of Auction (NOA) and Terms of Reference (TOR).
The NOA and TOR, which outlines the timeline, procedures, and guidelines for GEA-5 participation, will be released soon.
Currently, the DOE is evaluating position papers from stakeholders to integrate valuable insights, ensuring a transparent and effective auction process.
To date, there are 92 OSW contracts awarded by the DOE with aggregate total potential capacity of 68,656 megawatts (MW) gigawatts (GW) that will be developed in the coming years. This is part of the DOE’s goal to bring the share of renewable energy (RE) in the power generation mix to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040 from the current 22 percent.
The GEA-5 is expected to secure market access for OSW developers, ensuring long-term demand for their generation capacities; serve as a timeline guide for stakeholders, including the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, Philippine Ports Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Philippine Coast Guard, and the Local Government Units, among others; and advance the Philippines’ energy transition objectives, helping to diversify the country’s energy mix and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
“The launch of GEA-5 is expected to catalyze the development of offshore wind projects, solidifying the Philippines’ position as a renewable energy leader in the region. The outcomes of this auction will be vital in setting a clear path for developers and other stakeholders in the offshore wind industry,” the DOE said. With GEA-5 and other green en-
ergy initiatives, the DOE reaffirms its dedication to positioning the Philippines as a global contributor to the clean energy transition.
The launch of GEA5 was announced ahead of GEA4 which will cover Integrated Renewable Energy and Energy Storage System (IRESS). Alongside the planned GEA4, there is a plan to conduct a similar auction covering liquefied natural gas (LNG) albeit intended for ancillary services only to ensure grid reliability.
For GEA 3 auction, scheduled early 2025, the DOE will target a total of 4,475 MW of new RE capacity, covering both non-FIT-eligible
and FIT-eligible technologies. The capacities for non-FIT (feed-intariff) eligible RE technologies are: 300 MW from impounding hydro; 4,000 MW from pumpedstorage hydro; and 100 MW from geothermal.
The target start of deliveries for impounding hydro and pumped storage hydro is 2028 to 2030 and 2025 to 2027 for geothermal.
GEA-3 will also cover run-ofriver (ROR) hydro, which is a FITeligible RE technology.
An estimated 75 MW of RE capacity from ROR hydro is expected to be auctioned, with a target delivery starting in 2027 to 2029.
As of 2024, the Philippines has a total power capacity of 182.2 MW dedicated to data centers, with a large portion of this capacity coming from ePLDT Inc., which accounts for 122 MW.
Meanwhile, the expansion of the Philippine office of STT GDC Pte. Ltd., which is an affiliate of Globe
ABOITIZ Power Corp. (PSE: AP), through its renewable energy arm Aboitiz Renewables Inc. (ARI), has energized the 173-megawatt peak (MWp) Calatrava Solar Project in Negros Occidental.
“Calatrava is our fifth energized solar facility and the largest capacity thus far in Aboitiz Power’s growing solar generation portfolio,” said ARI President James Arnold D. Villaroman. “This project would not be possible without the help of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines. They have helped us energize the facility to deliver power through the Calatrava substation.”
Aboitiz Power has energized a
Despite this growth, the nation’s data center supply per capita is among the lowest in Southeast Asia, at 1.53 watts per capita. In comparison, developed markets like Singapore have a far higher supply, with 187.67 watts per capita. Nevertheless, Leechiu Property said its outlook remains “on a strong growth trajectory, driven by government incentives, widespread adoption of 5G technology and AI.”
total of 512 MW of energy projects, including the 159-MWp Laoag Solar and 94-MWp Cayanga-Bugallon Solar power plants in Pangasinan, the 17-MW Tiwi Binary Geothermal Power Plant in Albay, and SN Aboitiz Power’s 24-MW Magat battery energy storage system (BESS) in Isabela. Last month, it also switched on the 45-MWp Armenia Solar Project in Tarlac. At present, Aboitiz Power has over 1,000 MW of disclosed projects from various indigenous energy sources, while constantly pursuing opportunities to grow its portfolio for solar, hydro, geothermal, wind, and energy storage systems. Lenie
Lectura
Wind farm in northern Philippines. The department of Energy (dOE) expects to start the fifth green energy auction dedicated to offshore wind projects to start in the third quarter of 2025. PhotograPher: geric cruz/BloomBerg
Banking&Finance
Sale, use of fake PWD IDs form of tax evasion–BIR
WITH P88.2 billion in tax losses from the use of fake person with disability (PWD) identification cards (IDs) in 2023, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will launch a nationwide crackdown on the tax evasion scheme.
The BIR announced last Thursday that Internal Revenue Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. has ordered all BIR officials to coordinate with other government agencies in putting a stop to the sale and use of fake PWD IDs.
“People who sell and use fake PWD IDs are not only committing tax evasion, they are also disrespecting legitimate and compliant PWDs,” Lumagui said.
According to the BIR chief, the PWD ID card is not some common discount card that is accessible to the general public but, rather, for the improvement of the well-being of PWDs. It is also aimed to ease their financial burden.
“Expect the BIR to run after fake PWD ID sellers and users,” Lumagui warned.
Under Republic Act (RA) 7277, as amended by RA 10754, the benefits and privileges of PWDs are expanded by providing at least a 20 percent discount as well as exemption from the value-added tax (VAT) on the sale of goods and services for the exclusive use and enjoyment of PWDs.
This provides discounts on fees and charges in all services in hotels and lodging establishments, restaurants and recreation centers; purchase of medicines; medical and dental services; land transportation
fare; and funeral and burial services.
However, people have exploited the system by selling fake PWD IDs through online platforms like the Facebook Marketplace.
The trade on fake ID cards comes after the Senate Committee on Ways and Means conducted a public hearing on Senate Resolution 1239.
The latter seeks a probe on the adverse effects on businesses and the government due to the proliferation and misuse of fake PWD IDs. The resolution seeks to find solutions to stop the sale of such fake IDs and prevent those without disabilities from taking advantage of benefits intended only for PWDs.
Further, the BIR said it will continue auditing the transactions of PWDs in establishments.
According to Revenue Regulation 5-2017, establishments must provide records of sales of PWDs, including the name of the PWD, ID number, disability and the amount of discount and VAT exemption given while the BIR will verify the legitimacy of the IDs submitted by establishments.
If the BIR finds that such PWD ID numbers are not legitimate, it will disallow the deductions claimed by the establishments. Additionally, VAT-exempt sales linked to fake IDs will be assessed with deficiency VAT, including penalties and interest.
“The Bureau will intensify its coordination with relevant government agencies, including the Department of Health and the National Council on Disability Affairs, to verify the legitimacy of PWD IDs,” the BIR said. Reine Juvierre Alberto
Actionable Insights from an Association CEO Index Report
BEING part of the global community of associations, I receive news, knowledge resources, and copies of survey and research results on associations and other membership organizations from different parts of the world. Recently, I downloaded a copy of the “Association CEO Index 2024” commissioned by Bespoken Agency and supported by the Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) which captures the realities, challenges, and rewards of leadership in the association sector in Australia and New Zealand.
At its core, this research is about understanding the people behind the titles, leaders who dedicate themselves to advancing industries, professions and communities. In an environment where demands are constantly shifting, it’s essential that association CEOs (equivalent titles are executive directors, secretaries general, presidents) have a way to reflect and assess their capacity to continue making an impact.
Hereunder are some key findings from the report that I believe resonate to the association community here in the country.
1. Resource and financial constraints hinder talent attraction. Only a third of the CEOs believe that managing an association is seen as an attractive career choice by emerging leaders. More than two in five CEOs highlight lack of visibility, resource limitations, and low budgets as significant barriers to attracting talent to the sector.
2. Significant time spent on administrative duties. Administrative, finance, and HR responsibilities occupy over a quarter of an association CEO’s time. This is particularly pronounced in professional associations, where almost a third of CEO time is dedicated to these functions, reflecting the operational demands of the role.
3. Economic pressures cited as a top concern. Economic pressures, including rising costs and the impact on membership retention, are the most significant challenges, with two thirds of CEOs rating these issues as concerning, especially among
Rates, economy and loans key to banks’ asset quality–Fitch
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
LOWER interest rates, faster economic growth and more loans are expected to improve the asset quality of Philippine banks in 2025, according to Fitch Ratings.
Fitch Ratings expects India, Vietnam, and the Philippines to record the largest near-term improvements in non-performing loan (NPL) ratios next year.
“We expect stable or declining credit costs in most APAC banking systems due to GDP [gross domestic product] growth and steady unemployment. Increased provisioning in recent years and collateral, in particular for DM (developing mar-
ket) banks with property exposure, should cushion any adverse effects on asset quality,” Fitch Ratings said.
However, Fitch Ratings said there are risks to this outlook given that Philippine banks have “demonstrated greater vulnerability” from a historical standpoint.
“Philippine banks have historically demonstrated greater vulnerability in a less benign environment, although mainly to segments other
than the bigger banks’ exposure to large conglomerates,” Fitch Ratings said.
Nonetheless, Fitch Ratings expect banks in India, Vietnam, and the Philippines to have the highest appetite for risks in 2025 and 2026.
This is expected to be driven by faster economic growth, increased competition, and greater financial inclusion. This will motivate banks to increase loan growth and undertake “riskier loans.”
Fitch Rating also said India and the Philippines showed stronger appetite for unsecured retail loans and small businesses but “the growth is from relatively low bases.”
“Banks in these markets also have stronger appetite for unsecured retail loans, which we view as higher risk,” Fitch Ratings said. “We expect unsecured retail loans to remain a key loan growth driver for Indian banks, with growth of around 20 percent.”
Solons receive flak after OK of Philhealth’s zero budget
By Reine Juvierre Alberto @reine_alberto
LAWMAKERS who decided to deny budgetary support to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) next year received indignation from groups that said the move reflects government’s neglect of senior citizens, persons with disabilities and vulnerable Filipinos.
industry associations.
4. Membership engagement and retention are major priorities. Member engagement and retention are top concerns for a third of CEOs, reflecting the critical importance of maintaining strong member relationships in challenging economic conditions. Nearly half are focusing on enhancing value through segmentation, life cycle research, and personalization.
5. Job strain and wellbeing concerns are widespread. Job strain is a significant issue, with eight out of ten of CEOs indicating they frequently or occasionally lack the time needed to perform their roles effectively. Consequently, over two thirds of CEOs across all segments report feeling run down and lacking energy.
Despite these challenges, an overwhelming 91 percent of CEOs are optimistic about their association’s prospects for the next year. They see opportunities in areas such as membership growth, particularly by expanding into new regions, and leveraging technological advancements like AI-driven tools and new customer relationship management (CRM) systems to enhance member engagement. Also, nearly 90 percent of CEOs report satisfaction with their role, reflecting the alignment between personal values and the meaningful impact their work has in the industry or profession they represent. The insights of this association CEO index report serve as both a reality check and a call to action, providing associations with a clear roadmap to build a sustainable, thriving association sector for the future.
On Thursday, various groups condemned members of the House Bicameral Conference Committee who decided to allocate zero budgetary support to PhilHealth.
The bicam’s report on the 2025 General Appropriations Bill showed the supposed P74.431 billion in subsidies for PhilHealth has been adjusted to zero.
The Social Watch Philippines organization said the zero budget allocation is an insult to all PhilHealth members and is a reflection of the lawmakers’ disregard for the Universal Health Care (UHC) and Sin Tax Reform law.
About P69.81 billion from sin tax collections were deprived to indirect contributors of PhilHealth, which was supposed to be allocated for their premium contributions.
The Action for Economic Reforms, an organization of economists, said the zero funding assaults Republic Act (RA) 10351 (Sin Tax Reform law) that earmarks funds from tobacco and sweetened beverage taxes for PhilHealth.
Fail to protect
ACCORDING to the AER, the zero budget also strips the premiums of tens of millions of PhilHealth’s indirect contributors, which direct contributors will bear the sole burden of funding PhilHealth.
“It is the government’s mandate to uphold the people’s constitutional right to health by providing the appropriations that will cover the premiums of indirect contributors or those who cannot afford to pay,” according to the AER.
“Parang zero a ng konsensya ng mga nagdesisyon sa bicam na lagyan ng zero budget ang PhilHealth. Zero din ang boto namin sa kanila sa mga darating na eleksyon,” said Ernesto Ofracio, a community leader.
The SWP describes the leadership of Senate President Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero and Finance Committee Chairman Grace Poe as “very disappointing.” The group added Escudero and Poe shows an apparent “lack of understanding of the essence social insurance failed to uphold and protect every Filipino’s right to health.”
Poe’s argument of PhilHealth having “excess funds” worth P600 billion is “deceptive,” the AER said, adding that PhilHealth’s reserve funds are
insufficient to pay its insurance contract liabilities.
“The passage of the bicameral bill will compel the Filipino people to once again go to the Supreme Court and seek redress for the violations of Congress,” the AER added.
Unacceptable
THE chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Senator Christopher “Bong” T. Go, also voiced his strong reservations regarding the bicameral conference committee report for the 2025 National Budget.
In his manifestation on the Senate floor during the ratification of the Bicam report last Wednesday, Go clarified that he refrained from immediately signing the said report since he wants to first review the details concerning the reconciled budget.
“Bakit po ako pipirma sa isang dokumento na hindi ko naman po alam ang detalye? ” he questioned.
“Similar to the position of Sen. Bato [Ronald M.] dela Rosa, nais naming busisiin muna ang mga detalye nito bago pirmahan. Hindi ko pa nababasa ang kabuuan ng report na ito na ipinakita lamang sa amin kaninang umaga,” he also said earlier that day.
Go added he found a few provisions that he has strong reservations on; particularly on the reported removal of the proposed budget for PhilHealth. The senator criticized the decision to allocate zero funding to PhilHealth, emphasizing that health should remain a top priority.
“I just want to manifest my strong reservations on some of the provisions of the bicameral conference committee report, which I personally find unacceptable,” said Go.
Critical role
GO also expressed his dismay over the decision to deny PhilHealth any budget allocation, underscoring its critical role in providing healthcare benefits to Filipinos.
“As chairman of the Committee on Health, advocacy ko ang health. Dapat po ang pondo ng PhilHealth ay para sa health. Kaya nga po PhilHealth,” he stressed.
He noted that lessons from the pandemic underscore the need for sustained investment in healthcare, saying, “Katumbas niyan ang buhay ng bawat Pilipino. Kaya dapat bigyan po natin ng prayoridad ang health.”
While acknowledging that PhilHealth still has billions in reserve funds, Go emphasized the importance of government subsidies to implement reforms.
“While we acknowledge that PhilHealth has still bil-
lions in reserve funds, sabi nila 500 billion, as discovered and discussed in five hearings conducted by the Committee on Health; subsidy from the national government may still be needed to implement necessary reforms and improvements in its benefit packages.”
He warned that the lack of sufficient funding would adversely impact vulnerable sectors: “Huwag naman zero budget! Sa huli, mga mahihirap na pasyente na naman ang kawawa diyan.
Health programs
GO highlighted that Republic Act 11223 or the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law mandates that the amount necessary to implement the provisions of the UHC shall be included in the GAA, explaining: “ ito po yung nakolekta noong 2023, dapat po’y nakalaan ito para sa 2025, and shall be appropriated under the DOH and National Government subsidy to PhilHealth.”
May pinanggalingan na po iyan tulad ng sin tax collections na dapat ay para sa implementation ng UHC, nasa batas po iyan. May earmarking po iyan under RA 11346 at RA 11467 or the Sin Tax Law,” he added.
There is also a provision in the UHC Act that premium subsidy from indirect contributors shall be included annually in the General Appropriations Act.
Paano mag-be benefit ang mga pasyente kung zero ang budget ng PhilHealth?,” he asked.
The past months, Go kept on urging PhilHealth to expand its benefit packages especially for top 10 mortality diseases, increase case rates, scrap its restrictive policies like the 24-hour confinement policy, cover additional services like dental, optometric services and assistive device, among others.
Bigyan sana natin ng maayos at sapat na budget ang PhilHealth at hikayatin ang PhilHealth na i-maximize ang paggamit ng kanilang pondo para sa kanilang mga health-related programs and services,” he stressed.
AFP modernization WHILE supportive of provisions to allocate sufficient budget for other priorities, he expressed disappointment on why the budget for health was compromised.
“Hindi ko alam saan napunta ang P74 billion na dapat sana para sa PhilHealth o para sa health,” he lamented. “Kung may tinanggal na budget sa PhilHealth dahil kulang ang benepisyo na binibigay nito, dapat sa health programs ilagay pa din. Dapat hindi po sa iba.”
Go reiterated the importance of maintaining adequate health funding, urging the government to ensure that all health-related programs receive sufficient resources.
Bigyan sana natin ng maayos at sapat na budget ang PhilHealth at hikayatin ang PhilHealth na imaximize ang paggamit ng kanilang pondo para sa kanilang mga healthrelated programs and services,” he appealed.
Moreover, Go also lamented the decrease in the budget for the AFP Modernization Program, saying: “From the P50 billion approved in the Senado, from the P40 billion approved in the House, naging P35 billion pa. As I manifested during the plenary deliberations, importante ang modernization ng AFP para mapanatili ang kapayapaan at seguridad ng bansa.”
“Anyway, kahit may reservation po ako, nakakalungkot, I just want to put that on record. Thank you, Mr. President,” he ended.
Octavio Peralta
Association World
SHINING BRIGHTER: THE AWARDS HONORING LEADERSHIP,
By Richard Villanueva
AMID the lively bustle of the Yuletide season, the Angelo King Multi-Purpose Center in Xavier School, San Juan City, stood as a beacon of unity and pride on December 6, 2024. More than 350 attendees, representing alumni from across generations, faculty, staff, students, and distinguished guests, braved the season’s notorious traffic to honor two extraordinary Xaverians: Crispin “Cris” C. Dy Jr. (Class of 1973) and Reginald “Reggie” T. Yu (Class of 1984).
The Xavier-Kuangchi Award for Exemplary Alumni, established in 2007, is the highest honor Xavier School bestows upon its alumni. It celebrates individuals who embody the ideals of being "Men fully alive, endowed with a passion for justice and skills for development," and whose lives reflect the school’s six pillars: Competence, Character, Conscience, Compassion, Culture, and Community. Themed "Socio-Civic Excellence," the 2024 awards spotlighted these values through the lives and contributions of the honorees.
A Tribute to Xavier’s Legacy
The program opened with an invocation by Rev. Fr. Arturo M. Borja, S.J., Xavier School’s chaplain, who invited the audience to reflect on the values of faith and service that underpin the Xavier experience. Rodolfo P. Ang (Class of 1979), Chairman of the Xavier-Kuangchi Awards Committee, welcomed the gathering with stirring words on the significance of celebrating lives dedicated to service.
Johnip G. Cua (Class of 1973), Chairman of the Xavier School Board of Trustees, expressed gratitude to the honorees for living out the Xavier mission and reminded attendees that the legacy of service and leadership is a shared responsibility of all Xaverians.
Crispin “Cris” C. Dy Jr.: A Global Leader Anchored By Our Creed
The life story of Crispin “Cris” Dy Jr. is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering faith. Orphaned at 19 after a tragic airplane crash claimed his parents, Cris confronted profound grief by dedicating his life to his father’s ideals of service and leadership. A graduate of Xavier School’s Class of 1973, Cris’ early leadership potential was evident during his time at the Ateneo de Manila University, where he pursued Management Engineering. Joining the Junior Chamber International (JCI) marked a turning point in his journey. Rising through the ranks, Cris became the fourth Filipino to serve as JCI World President in 1997. His leadership was distinguished by the theme “Anchored By Our Creed,” a call to return to the core values of JCI as a foundation for global growth and development. Under Cris’ stewardship, JCI flourished through programs like “Developing Excellence Foundations and Growth (DEFG),” which aimed to empower young leaders across 100 countries. Beyond JCI, Cris co-founded the TOYM Foundation to secure the legacy of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) awards, fostering a culture of excellence in various fields.
A man of faith, Cris served in leadership roles within the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP) and the Rotary Club of Makati Central. As a Eucharistic Minister of Holy Communion, he bridged spirituality and service, embodying the Jesuit ideal of being “a man for others.”
In his acceptance speech, Crispin “Cris” Dy Jr. took the audience on a journey through pivotal moments that shaped his life and values, offering heartfelt reflections on resilience, service, and inspiration.
“Xavier School has always been a place of formation," he began, his voice steady with emotion. "It was here that learned the foundational values of faith, discipline, and service. But one particular moment stands out in my life—a moment that happened ten years after I graduated.”
Cris recalled visiting Xavier School in 1983, a decade after his high school graduation. As he walked through the familiar halls, a poster caught his eye. On it was a quote from Cardinal Leo Josef Suenens: ‘Blessed are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true.’
That simple yet profound message stopped me in my tracks,” Cris recounted. “At that point in my life, I was still grappling with the sudden loss of my parents and the daunting responsibility of carrying forward their legacy. I realized that I had dreams — dreams of making a meaningful impact — but I also understood that those dreams would require sacrifices and an unwavering commitment to action.”
Inspired by those words, Cris resolved to channel his energy and willpower into serving others. His journey took him into leadership roles in various spheres: the Junior Chamber International (JCI), where he rose to become World President in 1997; the business sector, where he co-founded the TOYM Foundation; and religious organizations like the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP).
That quotation became a cornerstone of my philosophy,” Cris shared. “It reminded me that dreams are not simply aspirations; they are responsibilities. They demand courage, perseverance, and faith. My involvement in JCI and other organizations was driven by a desire to turn those words into reality — not just for myself but for the communities I served.”
He paused, his gaze sweeping across the room. “Tonight, as I stand here before you, I am reminded of the price we all pay to bring our dreams to fruition. For me, it was about embracing service—not as a burden, but as a calling. Xavier School gave me the tools to dream, and that moment in 1983 gave me the resolve to act.”
Cris concluded by emphasizing the interconnectedness of faith, leadership, and service.
“This award is not for what have achieved,” he said with humility. “It is for what we, as a community, have achieved together. Let us continue to dream dreams—and may we always be willing to pay the price to make them come true.”
Reginald “Reggie” T. Yu: A Visionary Leader in Business and Service
Reginald “Reggie” T. Yu, from the Class of 1984, is a paragon of excellence across business, civic leadership, and community service. As a student at Xavier, Reggie exhibited remarkable leadership, not only through his academic excellence but also in his active involvement in extracurricular activities. A key moment in his development as a leader was his time as Editor-in-Chief of The Metamorphosis, where he learned to balance the demands of leadership with the creativity necessary for effective communication. This role, along with his position in the
Reggie Yu together with his colleagues from the Rotary Club of Manila.
Atty. Ramon Lapez Jr. of the Class of ‘84 and past AAXS President, formally introduces his classmate, Reggie Yu.
Fr. Joseph Haw, SJ, the new Xavier School President renders his closing remarks.
Friends present a surprise birthday cake to Reggie Yu and wife Sandy as they commemorate their joint birthday during the event.
Crispin Dy Jr. with his family and relatives.
Johnip Cua (XS ‘73) Xavier School Chairman of the Board of Trustees gives his message of thanks to the honorees.
Kenneth Go President of the Xavier School Class of ‘84 proposes a toast to their classmate, Reggie Yu.
Reggie Yu together with the Xavier School Board of Trustees.
The honorees’ friends from Junior Chamber International.
The 2024 Xavier-Kuangchi Committee with Fr. Joseph Haw, SJ.
Rudy Ang (XS '79), this year's Awards Chair, delivers the opening remarks.
Samuel Uy of the Class of '73 formally introduces his classmate, Crispin Dy Jr.
Reggie Yu’s mom, Susan T. Yu, visibly moved by her son’s heartfelt tribute to her, gives a two-thumbs up sign.
Johnip Cua (XS ‘73), Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Xavier School, puts on the medal to the honoree, as Xavier School President, Fr. Joseph Haw SJ, looks on. Crispin Dy Jr. talked about how his Xavier values helped him ascend to Junior Chamber International's highest position in 1997.
Daniboy Christian Balanzat (XS '97), President of the Alumni Association of Xavier School, delivers the Xavier Pledge.
Fr. Arturo Borja, SJ Xavier School Chaplain renders the invocation.
Reggie Yu electrifies the audience with his inspiring speech about his Xavier School journey.
2024 XAVIER-KUANGCHI LEADERSHIP, SERVICE, AND LEGACY
Student Council, allowed Reggie to hone skills that would later propel him to success in both the business world and civic engagement.
But it wasn’t just his time at Xavier that shaped Reggie. His journey through the University of the Philippines (U.P.), where he faced the challenge of navigating a more ideologically diverse environment, became a defining period in his personal growth. “UP was where I learned to engage critically with the world around me, yet it was Xavier’s Jesuit teachings that provided me the foundation to stay grounded,” Reggie explained in his speech, reflecting on how his education shaped not just his career but also his approach to leadership.
His career, which took him from SGV & Co. to Times Paint Corporation, and eventually to a leadership role at the Philippine Paint and Coatings Association, has always been guided by the same principles he learned at Xavier: service, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. Under his leadership, the Philippine Paint and Coatings Association has spearheaded numerous initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and innovation, ensuring the industry remains competitive and responsible. His efforts at the international level, representing the Philippines at the Asian Paint Industry Council, have positioned him as a key figure in fostering industry-wide collaboration across the Asia-Pacific region.
Beyond the corporate world, Reggie’s involvement in civic leadership is equally noteworthy. As the past president of JCI Senate Manila, he initiated various programs that addressed the most pressing issues faced by communities in need, from education and livelihood support to disaster relief efforts. His leadership in the Rotary Club of Manila Foundation further underscores his unwavering commitment to uplifting underserved communities, both locally and globally.
In his powerful and inspiring acceptance speech, Reggie brought a blend of humor, humility, and heartfelt gratitude as he took the audience on a reflective journey through the defining moments of his life. With an easy charm and sincerity, Reggie began by revisiting his Xavier School days, recounting lessons learned that extended far beyond the academic realm.
I still remember being a five-year-old boy when my parents made the difficult decision to transfer me from the Chinese school beside Malacañang to Xavier, he began. "But there was one problem — I didn’t pass the admissions interview. My parents appealed to the late Mrs. Jenny Huang Go, then the school principal, who graciously gave me a chance. That single opportunity became the first of many lessons I would learn here: failure is not final, but don’t make it a habit! Walang himala — Success is about persistence, a little luck, and resilience."
Reggie also shared fond memories of competing in oratorical contests, navigating the challenges of student leadership, and balancing the demands of academics with extracurricular responsibilities. Each of these experiences, he noted, played a vital role in shaping his character. “Xavier didn’t just teach us to excel; it taught us humility, service, and faith — values that have been my guideposts in every phase of life,” he reflected.
Transitioning to his time at the University of the Philippines, Reggie spoke about the culture shock of being in an environment rich in diverse spiritual and ideological perspectives. “UP was a melting pot of ideas. It challenged me to think critically and question my beliefs. But it was the Jesuit teachings from Xavier that became my moral compass,” he said. He credited Jesuit mentors with helping him remain steadfast in his faith while finding joy in serving others.
As the speech shifted to gratitude, Reggie’s tone softened. “If there’s one constant in my life, it’s my family,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. He paid a moving tribute to his mother, Susan Tieng Yu, recalling her sacrifices and the lessons she imparted. “She taught me discipline — not just through her words but through her actions. And yes, still remember those sessions with long multiplication-and-division exercises and the ominous feather duster,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the crowd. Reggie then expressed deep appreciation for his wife, Sandy and children, Ryan, Regine, Robin, and Roxanne, acknowledging their un-
wavering love and patience. “They’ve been my rock, my greatest cheerleaders, and the reason I strive to be a better person every day,” he said, his gaze warm as he addressed his family seated in the audience. He did not just reflect on his career but on the broader theme of service. “Success is not about accolades or financial gain,” he said. “It’s about what you give back to your community. Xavier taught us that leadership means service, and that lesson has guided my every step.” In closing, Reggie turned his focus to the enduring impact of
The audience responded with a standing ovation, a testament to the impact of his words and the legacy of service he continues to uphold. Inspiration Through Legacy The awards draw their inspiration from St. Francis Xavier, a missionary who exemplified zeal and faith, and Paul Hsü Kuangchi, a Ming Dynasty scholar-official known for his commitment to societal development. Together, they symbolize the values that Xavier alumni are called to embody.
The Xavier-Kuangchi Awards are more than just a recognition of individual achievement—they are a celebration of the values that Xavier School instills in its students: leadership, service, and legacy. The stories of Cris Dy and Reggie Yu remind us that true leaders are those who use their success as a platform to make a difference in the lives of others.
Both honorees exemplify the school’s mission of fostering a spirit of service, urging the next generation of Xaverians to rise above personal ambition and focus on making lasting contributions to society. As Cris Dy eloquently put it, “Leadership is not about standing at the front — it’s about lifting others up along the way.” Reggie Yu’s words echoed this sentiment: “It’s not about being the best in the room, but about lifting others up to their fullest potential. That’s what truly defines a leader.”
The evening culminated in a closing statement by Fr. Joseph Y. Haw, SJ, the President of Xavier School, where he reiterated the importance of Xavier’s mission. “Men fully alive, endowed with the passion for justice and skills for development is not static,” he said. “It is continually expressed in different ways by our stakeholders, especially by our alumni, who have been shaped by a Xavier education. We believe that each Xaverian possesses a unique fire that allows their light to shine brightly.” The inspiring ceremony was finally brought
A Call to Action The
Reggie Yu together with his friends from the Anvil Business Club.
The entrance of colors carrying the banners of the Class of 1973 and 1984.
Reggie Yu poses with his beloved mother, Susan T. Yu, for whom he dedicated this award to.
Jacinto Ng Jr. (XS '86) and Fr. Art Borja, SJ, members of Xavier School Board of Trustees, make a red carpet entrance.
Reggie Yu with his co-honoree, Crispin Dy Jr. from the Xavier School Class of 1973.
Reggie Yu is formally presented to the audience, flanked by School Chairman Johnip Cua and School President Fr. Joseph Haw, SJ.
This year's two honorees are flanked by past XavierKuangchi awardees in a rare photo opportunity. Reggie Yu with his immediate family.
Crispin Dy Jr. together with his Xavier School classmates from the Class of 1973.
Reggie Yu with his Xavier School classmates from the Class of 1984.
The honorees together with the Xavier School Board of Trustees.
What inclusivity really means
IMUST admit, the thought of a private beach exclusively for Muslims initally threw me. And of all places, Boracay, once named among the best islands in the world, and home to the most public white beaches. “What about the inclusivity we had all been fighting for?” I thought.
But as my niece M. explained to me—he had worked for 11 years in Abu Dhabi in a five-star hotel and, therefore, constantly interacted with the hotel’s Muslim and non-Muslim guests—such private beaches are a common thing. These are mostly occupied the mothers and their small children, even as the fathers are free to chill at the non-Muslims’ lounging area.
Megaworld Hotels and Resorts (MHR) recently launched the first Muslim beach in Boracay, called Marhaba Boracay, at Newcoast, the township development of its parent Megaworld Corp. The said beach is part of a private cove located about 300 to 400 meters away from Belmont Hotel. It is a small fenced area so Muslims can enjoy the sand and sea privately; it is open to other Muslim tourists not checked into the MHR hotels.
Several privately-run food kiosks border the perimeter of Newcoast’s main beach. There are grilling stations and bars, along with tables and chairs for beach goers to have their meals and down their chilled drinks, before going back to the lounging chairs to soak in the sun. (Don some surf shoes if you feel like swimming in the sea.)
From the main beach, one has a clear view of the famous “keyhole,” an outcropping of rock with a hole punched in the middle like, well, a keyhole. It has become such a popular tourist site that at certain points of the day, there is a long line of people taking photos with the keyhole in the background.
Apparently, people are supposed to throw coins into the sea while making a wish before the piece of rock. We forgot to do that as we were too caught up trying to take the perfect photo so as not to include the dangling blue rope that kept us separated from the keyhole. We were checked in at four-star Savoy Hotel Boracay, where the rooms reflect the turquoise waters and creamy, powdery sand beaches of the island. The service was impeccable as only Filipinos can truly deliver, and the food prepared by Chef Vincent was superb. (You must try the tumeric-laced arroz caldo with chunks of lechon kawali on top. Truly unique and delicious…yum! The nachos are good as well, making happy hour by the pool a truly tasty treat.)
I sat down for a chat with Savoy’s resort manager Deo Alexis Riego to find out more about the hotel’s swing to attract more Muslim guests, an initiative started by MHR when it signed a strategic partnership agreement with the Department of Tourism (DOT).
“We were accredited as a Muslim-friendly accommodation, which is the first in Boracay,” on the day the Marhaba Beach was opened in September, said Deo. He explained this means not just constructing a separate halal kitchen but with focus on the guest rooms, as well.
“There are specific setups and requirements for Muslim-friendly rooms, even in some common public areas, like we have separate prayer rooms for men and women,” he explained. For another, at Vienne Lounge, where we sat down for the interview, while it is a mixed-use establishment, i.e., both Muslims and non-Muslims eat there, there is a specific halal setup for Muslim guests. “This means all drinking glasses, utensils, etc. cannot be used anywhere else except for that space. Even the washing of those dishes and their storage are separate,” he stressed.
Deo said it was quite challenging to get Savoy halal-certified. “One of the most challenging would be getting suppliers for food. Particularly for meat, the suppliers cannot just say they are halal, we had to check them; they need to have a certification. We had to interview the suppliers thoroughly, like asking how they slaughtered, say, the chicken to ensure their claims are true,” he explained. Even for fruits and vegetables, they make sure these don’t touch the produce meant for the general public, otherwise these
become “cross contaminated.”
Despite the difficulties of becoming a truly halal-certified and Muslim-friendly establishment, “the halal journey was actually very educating, very detailed,” he said. Deo is proud that the DOT audit team pronounced them as having “exceeded” the agency’s requirements.
Once a Muslim guest checks into Savoy, he is given a separate brochure which contains all the information about the Muslim accommodation plus the emergency local contact numbers, while all the staff are trained to greet these guests properly, “Assalamu alaikum [Peace be upon you].”
Savoy and Belmont also collaborated on creating a manual on Muslim-friendly practices for each department, “which is very helpful,” as these are used for the employees’ training, said Deo.
Since the launch of the Marhaba Beach, Savoy has been getting a lot of inquiries from Muslim guests; the hotel website has been retooled to be able to prompt inquiries if these guests need a Muslimfriendly room. “When this is clicked, out pops all the information the guest needs, like about the specific services, and the inclusions [in the rate package],” he added.
Data from the DOT showed arrivals from the Middle East last year exceeded its prepandemic arrivals by 9.7 percent, reaching 80,851 from 73,703 in 2019. Indonesia, also an Islamic country, sent 53,707 visitors last year, 24 percent less than the 70,819 who visited in 2019. Still, the Philippines’s ranking as a Muslim-friendly tourist destination—among nonOrganization of Islamic Countries—has been steadily rising. Its ranking improved to seven in 2023, from six the year before, and ranked 36th across all countries, according to the MasterCard-Crescent Rating report.
The report also predicts Muslim international arrivals to reach 230 million by 2028 (from 160 million this year), spending an estimated $225 billion. It just makes good sense for the Philippines to try and tap this huge market by tweaking guest procedures, along with ehancements by hotels and resorts to accommodate specific food and services.
Inclusivity, it turns out, is not just offering the same type of opportunities or equal services to people of all backgrounds. It is about making space for their religious practices and cultural traditions as well. To be inclusive is to embrace everyone wholly. ■
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept.
until you
your beliefs with the company you encounter. Change, travel, networking and expanding your circle of friends are favored. Reconnecting with someone from your past will be enlightening. ★★
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Get out, meet and greet, and enjoy social events in your community. Taking time to express your feelings and share your thoughts will resonate with someone you encounter. Fitness and diet will result in a new and improved you. ★★★
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You are overdue for a change. Share your dreams with someone special to see if you are heading in the same direction. Explore your options and put a plan in place that can get you where you want to go. ★★★
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Time passes fast, but to act without enough preparation will set you back. Protect your assets and possessions from anyone wanting to take advantage of you. Simplify your life instead of taking on too much and falling short of your expectations. ★★★
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Home improvements will make your place more inviting. Entertaining people who make you smile and stimulate your mind will lead to lively conversations that offer plenty to think about and plan for in the new year. Keep your important papers, assets and possessions safe from scammers. ★★★★★ AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): High energy will help you handle pressing year-end matters. The peace of mind you get from taking
INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED VISUAL ARTIST MARIA TANIGUCHI SHAKES UP MANILA
MARIA TANIGUCHI: Body of Work, the first survey show of the globally lauded contemporary visual artist, will open at the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) on December 14, 2024. The exhibition will present Maria Taniguchi’s renowned ongoing series of brick paintings which began in 2008. It has since expanded to 200 canvases. Central to the production and development of her practice, Taniguchi speaks of brick paintings as the conceptual scaffold which frames her other projects of sculptural drawings, video works and objects. Maria taniguchi: body of work brings together some of her largest canvasses to date, as well as key video works, objects, and a site-specific commission of her Runaways Taniguchi’s recent exhibitions include the 60th International Art Exhibition, Biennale Arte, Venice (2024); soft doubles, ROH Projects, Jakarta (2023); Figure Study, Silverlens New York (2023); The 12th Gwangju Biennale: Imagined Borders, Gwangju Biennale Exhibition Centre (2018); and 21st Biennale of Sydney, Superposition: Equilibrium & Engagement, Museum of Contemporary Art (2018). Her work is featured in the collections of The M+ Museum and the Burger Collection both in Hong Kong, Kadist Art Foundation in San Francisco, QAGOMA in Brisbane, and K11 Art Foundation in Shanghai.
Taniguchi won the Hugo Boss Asia Art Award in 2015 and was a LUX Associate Artist in 2009. Maria taniguchi: body of work will be available on view to the general public from December 14, 2024 to March 30, 2025.
In light of the holiday season, MCAD will be closed starting December 21, 2024, and will resume operations on January 2, 2025. MCAD is located on the Ground Floor of the Design + Arts Campus of the DLS-CSB along Dominga Street, Malate, Manila. Admission is free.
For appointments, visit www.mcadmanila.org.ph/visit More information is available at www.mcadmanila.org.ph.
Ang Lee to receive DGA Lifetime Achievement Award
NEW YORK—Ang Lee, the protean filmmaker of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Brokeback Mountain, will receive the Directors Guild of America’s lifetime achievement award.
The guild announced on Tuesday that Lee, 70, will be given the award at the 77th DGA Awards on February 8. The DGA, which considers the award its highest honor, has given it to 36 filmmakers over its 88-year history. The last director to receive it was Spike Lee in 2022.
“Ang Lee is truly a master filmmaker,” said Lesli Linka Glatter, DGA president, in a statement. “For over 30 years, he has directed a dynamic body of work that boldly cuts across genres—from period drama to comedy, adventure to western, superhero to martial arts—always fearlessly taking on new challenges, never repeating himself, and consistently achieving cinematic excellence.”
“I am honored to be recognized in such an incredible way by my beloved guild,” said Lee. “To be given the DGA Lifetime Achievement Award is a momentous achievement for me personally, and an opportunity to reflect on what my work has meant to this amazing community of my fellow filmmakers.” Lee’s films also include 1995’s Sense and Sensibility, 1997’s The Ice Storm, 2003’s Hulk and 2012’s Life of Pi. The Taiwan-born filmmaker has twice won the Oscar for best director, for Brokeback Mountain and for Life of Pi AP
Still rockin’: As Brenda Lee turns 80, the Christmas song she sang as a teen is a holiday staple
By David Bauder The Associated Press
EW YORK—Her memories of recording
N“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” are a little hazy. She remembers the producer placing decorations around the studio and blasting the air conditioner on a warm Nashville day to create a holiday spirit. The musicians, she recalls, nailed it in a couple of takes.
That’s about it. After all, Brenda Lee was 13 years old at the time—and it was 66 years ago, in 1958.
Somewhat implausibly, her celebration of a “Christmas party hop” is more popular today than ever before. It’s an unusual trajectory, even accounting for the fact that music listeners during the holiday season tend to embrace songs they’ve known for years.
“Rockin’” eclipsed Mariah Carey’s perennial favorite “All I Want for Christmas is You” last December to top the Billboard music chart and make Lee, at age 78, the oldest woman to achieve that feat. A week later, following a birthday, she beat her own mark. Kendrick Lamar likely stands in her way of doing it again this year.
Another record: Sixty-five years represented the longest interval between a record being released and making it to No. 1.
“It is a good song,” Lee told The Associated Press. “It’s a song that anybody can sing. You can join in, you can sing it, everyone is happy. I sure am glad that I have it. I never thought in my life that a Christmas song would be my legacy. But I’ll take it.”
‘AN EAR WORM ON STEROIDS’
IT’S a phenomenon that music journalist Holly Gleason noticed recently while stopping for coffee in Nashville, near the neighborhood where Lee lives. The song came over the loudspeaker and the room—parents, kids, hipsters—erupted in singing and laughter. “It’s kind of an ear worm on steroids,” said Gleason, whose 2017 book “Woman Walk the Line: How the Women in Country Music Changed Our Lives” featured Lee, among others.
much sense: what is the “new old-fashioned way,” exactly?
The song manages the neat trick of sounding retro yet not dated. Sweet guitar licks snake around Lee’s voice in the original recording. Boots Randolph’s saxophone solo drives it home. The party flies by quickly, the song over in two minutes, six seconds. Composer Johnny Marks already had some seasonal hits to his credit, including “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “A Holly Jolly Christmas.” He specifically sought out Lee for his new song in 1958 and it’s easy to see why: Who better to convey its innocence and spirit than a 13-year-old girl at the forefront of the Baby Boom? Rock ‘n’ roll was in its infancy then, too.
In the song, Lee sings about “mistletoe hung where you can see, every couple tries to stop.”
In real life, she hadn’t experienced her first kiss. “Lord, no,” she said. “Not to say I didn’t want to. I wasn’t even allowed to date until I was 16.”
WHAT IS THE ‘NEW OLD-FASHIONED WAY,’ ANYWAY?
THE song hits plenty of holiday reference points— pumpkin pie, caroling, boughs of holly. You can overlook the part of the chorus that doesn’t make
The simplicity of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” is a big part of its appeal, said Nathaniel Sloan, a musicologist at the University of Southern California and co-host of the “Switched on Pop” podcast. Like many successful holiday songs, it evokes nostalgia for a happier, more peaceful time—even if that’s more imagination than reality, he said.
The style is more rockabilly than traditional rock or country, and Sloan believes that has much to do with why it continues to sound fresh.
“The thing that has always stunned me about the song is that you’re listening to a 13-year-old’s performance, and it doesn’t sound that way to me,” he said. “There’s a depth to the vocal, even a weathered quality, that I can’t believe she was so young. It’s pitchperfect.”
For all of its success, the song was barely noticed upon its release in 1958. Not until two years later, when Lee’s profile was higher through hits like “I’m Sorry,” did it make the music charts.
Its biggest boost came 40 years after that, when “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” was featured in the hit movie Home Alone. The movie itself has become a holiday staple, giving more exposure to the song each year.
Her record company continues to push the song, recording a video in 2023 that included guest appearances by Tanya Tucker and Trisha Yearwood.
This year it has released “Noche Buena Y Navidad,” a Spanish-language version using artificial intelligence to create a vocal derived from Lee’s voice. THE RECORD COMPANY IS THROWING LEE A BIRTHDAY PARTY
UNIVERSAL Music is holding a party for her in Nashville to celebrate her 80th birthday on Wednesday. “She’s just a force and a character,” said Cindy Mabe, the company’s chairwoman and CEO. “She’s full of spunk in the same way that 13-year-old girl was.”
“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” made the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2019. It has been streamed more than 2.5 billion times globally and certified seven times Platinum, meaning at least seven million copies sold. Kelly Clarkson, Miley Cyrus, Meghan Trainor, Kacey Musgraves and the duo of Darlene Love & Ronnie Spector are among the artists who’ve covered it.
Lee has sung it countless times over the years, most recently at a charity event last year. It made her concert setlist even in the heat of summer. How much money the song has earned is murky; the record company wouldn’t talk about it. The bulk of its income would likely go to Marks’ estate.
“It has never been a money thing for me,” Lee said. “It’s been a love thing. The money is great, yes, and I’m grateful. But I would be singing it on the corner for pennies because that’s what I love to do.” n
GMA Network and FPJ Productions Inc. have announced their partnership that will bring Fernando Poe Jr.’s (FPJ) most iconic films to television in FPJ sa GMA this 2025. The FPJ sa GMA programming will feature a curated selection of FPJ’s greatest box-office hits, bringing his legendary films back to television and rekindling the magic of his cinematic masterpieces. This special programming is expected to be a memorable and nostalgic experience for both longtime fans and younger audiences who may be discovering his work for the first time.
Present at the event were GMA Network president and chief executive officer Gilberto R. Duavit Jr., senior vice president for programming, talent management, worldwide, and support group and president of GMA Films Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, and senior assistant vice president for program management, Concepcion Agnes. Representing FPJ Productions Inc. were Sen. Grace Poe, together with FPJ Productions Inc. president Jeffrey Stevens G. Sonora, FPJ Productions Inc. vice president, corporate secretary and treasurer Joseph Sonora, Brian Poe Llamanzares, Atty. Eugenio “Toto” Villareal, Atty. Conrada “Apple” Balboa, Atty. Ma. Bernadette Vielle Perote, and Annabelle Bernardez.
During the contract signing held on December 3, Gozon-Valdes highlighted the legacy of Fernando Poe Jr. “FPJ’s contributions to Philippine cinema and to the Filipino identity remain unmatched. He indeed was, and still is, the King of Philippine Movies, and his influence has been ingrained within our culture and the hearts and minds of every Filipino,” she said. FPJ Productions Inc. president Jeffrey Sonora shared his support for the partnership: “It is an honor for us to be here with GMA right now and to be part of the family.” Sen. Grace Poe, likewise, spoke of her
naipalabas ang mga gawa ni FPJ hindi lang sa sinehan kundi sa telebisyon sa pamamagitan ng FPJ sa GMA. Nais kong magpasalamat na ngayon ay mapapalabas ulit sa telebisyon.”
na this is a momentous occasion, it definitely is. Karangalan namin na maging bahay muli ni FPJ ang GMA. Sa wakas, uuwi na siya sa pinanggalingan nyang tahanan sa telebisyon.”
BRENDA LEE in the special 2023 music video of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” which included guest appearances by Tanya Tucker and Trisha Yearwood.
will finally air and be enjoyed again in its first home on television.
Mula sa akin at sa aming pamilya, maraming salamat sa pagpapahalaga sa alaala at sa sining ni FPJ. Noon pa man at ngayon,
ARTIST Maria Taniguchi PHOTO BY CZAR KRISTOFF
B8 Friday, December 13, 2024
FRESH from its debut at the recently concluded Philippine International Motor Show, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) hosted a well-planned and thorough test drive event for the Civic RS e:HEV variant. While we have experienced the brand’s hybrid system with the latest CR-V, fitting it to the iconic sedan makes it even more exciting. For this drive episode, HCPI chose to take the longer route, going to Baguio via the bends of Asin Road. The long stretch of freeways going north, plus the unforgiving climbs and twisties, were the perfect playground for the electrified Civic. Of course, the iconic sedan did not disappoint. There were surprises and notable elements along the way.
Grand Concept
SEVERAL years into its introduction, the latest generation’s design still looks fresh and headturning. There is something about its more mature look compared to its predecessor. Keeping the RS e:HEV variant slightly different is the new bumper design and lids under the Full-LED headlights (integrated with standard Daytime Running Lights), creating a separation effect from the front grille. Aside from the exclusive RS elements such as black-painted side mirrors, door handles, shark fin antenna, and trunk spoiler, the RS e:HEV received exclusive Matte Gray Alloy Wheels wrapped in 235/40ZR18 (95Y) tires. Meanwhile, the interior’s dark motif may have that minimalist effect; one cannot deny the layout’s engaging effect, including a load of tech features. From quality materials like soft touchpoints to the stretched honeycomb pattern on the vents. The RS e:HEV also has blended suede and leather upholstery. For in-car entertainment, the RS model’s nine-inch touchscreen display audio
Editor: Tet Andolong • www.businessmirror.com.ph
supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and is equipped with a 12-speaker Bose sound system. Of course, it also has Honda’s hybrid user interface, displaying energy flows, current battery charge, and whatnot.
Full hybrid system
MOTIVATION comes from a 2.0 e:HEV E-CVT, the same hybrid system as the current CR-V e:HEV model. It is equipped with a powerful combination of two electric motors (the Traction Motor and the Generator Motor) and a new four-cylinder, 2.0-liter Direct Injection Atkinson Cycle engine. Power-wise, the engine alone generates 146 hp and 183 N-m of torque, while the electric traction motor dishes out 181 hp and 335 N-m of torque.
Green but mean WHEN we thought that the standard 1.5-liter four-cylinder DOHC VTEC Turbo engine was already exciting enough, Honda’s e: HEV changed our perspective about hybrid powertrains. Nowadays, the system is no longer a mere green machine aimed at outstanding fuel efficiency alone, albeit boring.
Experiencing the CR-V e:HEV beforehand convinced us that Honda’s hybrid system is a green and mean machine.
Now, dropping it in the lighter and nimbler Civic frame, the hybrid system made the car even better than ever, performance-wise. There was no question about the instantaneous torque registration, thanks to the electric motor’s 335 N-m torque. Reaching high-speed limits on the freeway was a walk in
the park. Everything was effortless, no matter how we went up and down in speed.
But climbing the Asin Road proved to be the most compelling part. The never-ending curves and tight bends limited the car to only run at speeds driven by the electric traction motor. The relentless amount of torque alone dismissed the fact that our car was loaded with four adults plus luggage. The climb became like a leveled road for the E:HEV powertrain. Mind you, we were even at Normal Mode.
Another plus factor was the regenerative braking. Set to the maximum level, the regen effect was far better than engine braking. As a result, there were instances in which braking was less applied during curve entries. Interestingly, the hybrid system mimics gear
shifting, demonstrated by subsequent engine rpm blipping.
Nimble, comfy and in control
WE already expected a good drive with the Civic’s known driving dynamics. But one surprise was the car’s ability to handle highway bumps despite being fully occupied. It was like the dampers have longer strokes, absorbing bumps relatively manageable, even during those notorious uneven bridge ramps.
At high speeds, the car was wellplanted with muffled road noise.
Factoring in all the cabin’s comfy elements, including the leg space, the entire freeway run became as blissful as riding a bigger car. The “Power Flow Information” was displayed throughout the drive on the infotainment screen.
Handling-wise, the Civic RS
e:HEV demonstrated stellar dynamics, particularly during the Asin Road climb. With a staggering torque at our disposal, we only needed to worry about correct braking and turning. The car’s lower center of gravity played a significant factor. Entering and exiting curves, even tighter ones, became easier at higher speeds. The steering feedback was good, as always.
Honda Sensing and CONNECT are the way to go OF course, the Civic RS e:HEV is equipped with the latest Honda SENSING driver-assistive technology, with a new front sensor camera with a broader field of view and a radar system with a 120-degree view angle. Cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians are now better detected.
During the entire freeway stretch, the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF) actively kept the pace based on the vehicle upfront by picking up, slowing down, and applying brakes to maintain a safe distance. Meanwhile, the Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) actively operates the steering within visible lanes, even on long bends.
As for the Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), there was slight resistance and movement during lane changes without using the turn signals. Of course, the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) was always active in flashing warnings on the screen for collision alerts.
It also boasts the latest generation of Honda CONNECT, now with more features that allow users to interact with the vehicle via a smartphone app. Google Automotive Services is also new to the Honda Civic, allowing for more personalization and letting its owners add valuable and relevant applications to their everyday lives. Honda SENSING has also been given a significant update for enhanced detection for all road users.
TAMARAW ARRIVAL IS 2024’S BIGGEST MOTORING NEWS
THE recent multiple launch of the next generation Tamaraw has caught the motoring nation by surprise— happily, of course. It practically froze every soul at the sight of a vehicle suddenly returning to the scene with aplomb after years, decades even, of absence.
Short of being a phenom, the Tamaraw reveal could be like the Return of the Jedi, if not—at the cost of me being labelled a blasphemer—the Second Coming. The manner of its arrival alone grips the imagination. With eight locations across the archipelago simultaneously serving as venues for the Tamaraw launch, the occasion has broken records, making the event unprecedented worldwide for its incredibly
massive, unremitting, scope. Audiences in Makati City, Quezon City, Pasay City, Pampanga, Laguna, Cebu City, Davao City and Cagayan de Oro City were almost unbelieving at seeing the spectacle of a vehicle launch of this gargantuan proportion.
The launch has become the Big News itself, with the new Tamaraw the absolute headliner, handsdown! It deserves applause like no other.
Make better cars
SAID Toyota president Masando Hashimoto: “We sat down and communicated with potential customers to ask what they look for in the Tamaraw. Hearing their comments inspired and reminded me and our team to make everbetter cars.”
Available in diesel and gas variants, the Next Generation Tamaraw offers 2.4L 2GD-FTV and 2.0L 1TR-FE engines.
The long wheelbase (LWB) Dropside and LWB Utility Van will be available in January 2025,
and the LWB Aluminum Cargo in March. The short wheelbase (SWB) variants of the Utility Van, Dropside, and Aluminum Cargo will start at a later date. Also coming are conversions of Ambulance, Patrol Van, Refrigerated Van, Food Truck, Mobile Service Vehicle and Camper RV in partnership with Toyota Mobility Solutions Philippines (TMSPH) headed by Tini Arevalo.
Mobility challenges
SAID Danny Cruz, Toyota’s First Vice President for Vehicles Sales Operations: “As explained by Chief Engineer Jira, the Next Generation Tamaraw transforms to the body style best suited for customer needs. It can convert into anything we can imagine. We made sure we truly knew our customers by going to small and medium business owners all over the country to understand their mobility challenges.”
The 2.4 Dropside DSL M/T LWB is pegged at P937,000, although TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty disclosed during the Tamaraw Roll-
off Ceremony on November 28 that the gas-powered SWB variant will start below P800,000. The top-of-the-line 2.4 GL Dropside DSL A/T LWB will cost P1,075,000 and the 2.4 Aluminum Cargo DSL M/T LWB and 2.4 Utility Van DSL M/T LWB are priced at P1,041,000 and P1,142,000, respectively.
Collaboration
JING Atienza, TMP’s affable executive vice president, said they collaborated with Toyota Financial Services Philippines to facilitate affordable multiple options of acquisitions, such as low down payment and flexible payment schemes, including weekly payments.
Maintenance will also be a breeze with a service discount of P1,200 for every Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) up until the 40,000 KM check-up.
TMSPH will also provide additional solutions like OnDemand Shuttle System, Logistics Matching Service and more to cater to different business’ needs.
Commercial vehicle
THE Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw falls under the commercial vehicle segment, which accounts for 73.64 percent of the market share, according to the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI)’s 2024 Q3 report.
This segment includes vehicles used by micro, small and mediumsize enterprises, local government units, logistics facilities, and many more.
Allana Faith Rufo, the lead writer from Mixie Flavier’s PR crew headed by Elvin Luciano, bares that customers may now place their reservations at any Toyota dealership nationwide through https://www.toyota.com.ph/dealer
With its very affordable prices for such an iconic ride, acquiring the new Tamaraw would, indeed, be a steal.
“The Lexus vision is built on perfecting driving pleasure through amazing experiences. From intuitive, cutting-edge Lexus Electrified technology to handcrafted, pioneering design; Lexus strives for personalised luxury.
“To learn more, visit the Lexus website at lexus.com.ph or visit its social media pages on Facebook and Instagram @lexusphilippines.” PEE STOP Toyota Foundation has partnered with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to help conserve the critically endangered Tamaraw, a
Lexus sale on HERE is the latest from Jade SisonMendoza, the ever energetic bearer of good tidings from Lexus: “Make this Christmas memorable by enjoying exclusive offers from Lexus from December 1 to 31, 2024. “The IS F Sport comes at P4,228,000, ES Premier P4,878,000, LS Premier P10,508,000, UX300e P3,898,000, RZ450e P5,228,000, and RX350h P4,778,000.
Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
DENOTING minimalism with a monochromatic theme, yet full of tech and features exclusive to the e:HEV variant
THE Civic RS e:HEV’s hybrid system
THE Civic RS e:HEV in exclusive Canyon River Blue Metallic color
