BusinessMirror December 14, 2021 by BusinessMirror

11-mo Pagcor POGO revenue plunges 45%

‘Close borders, cut Omicron exposure risk’ By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

By Cai U. Ordinario

with their loved ones, while for@caiordinario eigners living in temperate regions usually want to relax in tropical LOSING the country’s borders countries like the Philippines. This is one of the most immediate year’s influx of OFWs is expected to courses of action the governbe heavier since many of them were ment must take to prevent the latunable to come home for the holidays est Covid-19 variant, Omicron, from in December 2020. reaching Philippine shores, accord“My recommendation is to protect ing to local economists. the borders. Do not allow people with T he new var iant is a threat, a history of travel to countries with e s p e c i a l l y w it h t he hol id ay s positive cases to enter,” Oplas said. coming up and more foreigners “We should be more restrictive. [We being a llowed to travel to the have to be] more protective in terms Philippines, De La Sa lle Univerof our measures.” sit y economist Mar ia Ella Oplas Oplas said that while this will be GOOD JAB, SM! As a government partner in its Covid-19 vaccination campaign, SM received special from the IATF for administering more than 6.5-M jabs in 71 SM Malls nationwide, toldrecognition BusinessMirror. a setback to some industries, this making it the biggest private entity to have vaccinated the most number of people in the country. SM was also awarded the PANAta Gawad Padayon Gold Award for bolstering vaccine confidence and The holidays usually bring in is a fair measure considering that trust in their employees, customers, and LGU communities. In photo from left, Presidential Adviser for Covid-19 Response Secretary Vince Dizon, DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III, SM Supermalls Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) this could help prevent placing the President Steven Tan, DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones, NTF Chief Implementer Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei Nograles. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO who are eager to spend Christmas country in another strict lockdown,

Tuesday,November December29, 14,2021 2021Vol.Vol.1717No.52 No.67 Monday,

@joveemarie

of economy the Philippine which,HE sheincome said, the can no A musement and Gaming longer afford. (Pagcor) from “It Corporation is better that we do protective the Philippine Offshore Gaming preventive measures than get exOperations plunged 45 posed again.(Pogos) We have a lot tobylose,” percent as of November this year, Oplas said. “We should do it now so Pagcor Monday. that wereported can openonjust before Christ mas. At aIfbriefing with the House it gets contained, we canComopen mittee on Ways and Means, Pagcor it again.” Senior Regulatory Joseph Ateneo Center forOffice Economic ReLobo said collection from Pogos only search and Development (ACERD) reached P2.8Director billion as of Associate SerNovember Percival 30, 2021, in contrast to P5.2 billion K. Peña-Reyes said closing the last year. borders would be effeccountry’s tive “From to November 2021, but January should still adhere to the we have at least [a] 45-percent drop standards set by the World Health from 2020 income, basically, due to Organization (WHO). the pandemic,” Lobo lawmakers. What is needed, told Peña-Reyes told this In newspaper, 2020, the Bureau of Internal is for travel restricRevenue said Pogo swiftly collection tions to be putthe in place and

reached P7.2 billion. Currently, Lobo also said, there are only 27 operational Pogos out of 39 Pogo licensees. for government to be proactive in imposing He added thatemployment from them. Pogo has also declined from 50,259 Previous instances when the workers in 2020 to 31,816 this year. country had the opportunity to im pose “Oftravel [2021restrictions Pogo workers] 16,494 did not preare while 15,322 That are forventFilipinos the spread of Covid-19. was eigners,” he said. mainly because the decision was not made In October, the Department immediately, he said. of Finance (DOF) projected that[If thewe’re gov“Kung papatay patay ernment will rake in a total of P76.2 slow] and we get caught flat-footbillion from the fullWe implementation ed, [that’s risky] were too reof the law taxing Pogos in the next active instead of proactive before. two years. We should learn from that,” Peña Reyes Assuming that the Pogo tax law said. “It’s a delicate balancing will be fully implemented next act. We need to push testingyear, and the DOF said P35.1 billion informed of the totracing to be properly tal generated from the collecof will our be decisions. Blanket/shotgun tion of the 5-percent gaming on approaches could have dire tax consegross gaming revenues of Pogos or quences on the economy.” See “POGO,” A2 See “Omicron,” A2

DOF FAVORS EXTENDING NATL GOVT BORROWINGS FOR 10 MOS TO P2.75T VALIDITY OFDIP PORK MAV+ FT ww

n n

P25.00 P25.00nationwide nationwide||22sections sections24 20pages pages||

BOC auction Omicron risk of luxury spurs revival cars draws of quarantine no bidders rules in PHL

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas By Bernadette D. Nicolas

@jearcalas @BNicolasBM

INANCE HE national government’s Secretary gross G. Carlos borrowings asIII of Dominguez end-October shrank on Monday said by almost 6 percent he is in favortoof year-on-year extending the P2.75 trillion. validity of the Latest data from the Bureau of the government’s Treasury showed that the govern200,000 metric ment’s gross borrowings during the 10-month period fell by 5.99 percent ton (MT) from P2.92 trillion a year ago. With only two months left for minimum access this year, the latest figure is already equivalent to 89.6 percent of its volume plus P3.07-trillion borrowing program. (MAV+) program Broken down, gross domestic borrowings from January to October for theby settledpork at P2.23until trillion, down 5.08 percent from P2.35 trillion end of next year. in 2020.

The bulk of the amount was sourced from Fixed Rate Treasury Bonds “Yes,(P1.19 I am,” trillion), Dominguez told refollowed by porters in a Viber message short-term borrowings fromwhen Bangasked if theng Department Finance ko Sentral Pilipinas orofBSP (P540 (DOF) is amenable to extending the billion), Retail Treasury Bonds/Prevalidity of Executive Order (EO) myo Bonds (P463.3 billion), Retail 133, whichDollar hikedBonds the government’s Onshore (P80.84 bilMAV for pork. lion). In the same period, there was also The MAV+ program, under a pork net redemption of Treasury EO 133, is only applicable during Bills amounting to P43.94 billion. the MAVdebt yearredemption 2021-2022, which Net means ends on January there were more 31. debts repaid com“DOF,” A2 pared to theSee amount borrowed during the period. Meanwhile, gross foreign borrowings in the same period also contracted by 9.7 percent to P518.7 billion from last year’s P574.4 billion. This was raised through global bonds (P146.17 billion), program loans (P139.98 billion), euro-denominated bonds (P121.97 billion), a project loan (P86.41 billion), and yen-denominated samurai bonds (P24.19 billion). See “Borrowings,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES

T I

PEOPLE walk past the mural of Gat Andres Bonifacio at Manila City Hall Underpass. The country will celebrate the 158th birth anniversary of Filipino revolutionary hero Gat Andres Bonifacio on Tuesday, November 30. ROY DOMINGO

OVER 3-M FARMERS LISTED FOR P75-B COCO LEVY FUND

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas dating its registry following the them. This allows everyone to see programs as President Duterte THE Philippines’ Beatrice Luigi Gomez, Colombia’s Valeria Ayos, Paraguay’s Nadia Ferreira, South Africa’s Lalela Mswane and India’s Harnaaz Sandhu pose as the top 5 contestants during the 70th Miss @jearcalas enactment of the Coconut Farmwho are listed in the registry and if is expected to sign the industry Universe pageant, Monday, December 13, 2021, in Eilat, Israel. Sandhu of India was crowned the 70th Miss Universe on Sunday. As far as Philippine leaders are concerned, Gomez had a good run even if ers and Industry Trust Fund law. farmer doesn’t see his name then he development plan in early 2022. she failed to take home the crown. “A member of our armed forces, an athlete, and a youth advocate, Ms. Gomez is an inspiring figure whose participation in Miss Universe allowed the world to see what ORE than 3 million Rosales explained that about shall coordinate with the PCA imRosales said the PCA will not we in the country witness every day: the strength, grace, and beauty of the Filipino woman,” said Acting presidential spokesman Karlo B. Nograles. AP/ARIEL SCHALIT

HE national government’s By Samuel P. Medenilla auction on Monday of five @sam_medenilla luxury vehicles to the public has failed, no bids were by NTER NATIONA Lreceived concerns the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the over the possible spread of the Department of Finance (DOF) and more infectious Omicron Cothe Bureau of the Treasury (BTr). vid-19 variant prompted the gov ernment In a livestreamed public auction, to reimpose mandatory the interagency auction committee facility-based quarantine for all was forcedpassengers to declare ain failure of bids arriving the country. for Acting each of Presidential the five vehicles due to spokesperthe absence of bids and bidders. son Karlo B. Nograles announced onThe vehicles were by the Sunday that the seized Inter-Agency government for violation of Section Task Force for the Management 1400 (misdeclaration) of Republic of Emerging Infectious Diseases Act 10863 or the Customs Modern(IATF) suspended the implemenization Act. No. 150tation and of itsTariff Resolution A “Pursuant to Customs (s.2021), effectively Adminisimposing trative 03-2020, specifically stricterOrder protocols for all inbound Section 5.15, a failed bidding may travelers. be declared. auction may be150deTo note, An IATF Resolution clared as failed by the auction comA had allowed fully vaccinated mittee when any offrom the Green following non-visa travelers List circumstances occurred: [1] if there areas to enter the country withisout no bid [2] iffor the highest bidder theand need facility-based fails to comply with any of the payquarantine as long as they secure ments required,” the auction comnegative Reverse Transcriptionmittee stated during livestream. Polymerase Chain the Reaction (RT PCR) If the auction was successful, test within 72 hours prior the government could have raised to their departure. a minimum of P29.087 million. The “Except for countries classified most expensive lot was Lot 3 or the as ‘Red,’ the testing and quarantine 2008 Ferrari Scuderia 430 with a protocols for all inbound internafloor price of P23.225 million. tional travelers in all ports of entry

See “BOC auction,” A12 shall comply with the testing and coconut farmers and 500,000 coconut farmers and mediately,” he explained at a recent stop updating its list of coconut quarantine protocols for ‘Yellow’ workers are now regisworkers were added to the PCA’s dialogue with coconut farmers. farmers and enjoined them to reglist countries,” Nograles said, citing tered with the government’s reg2018 list that had about 2.5 million “On the other hand, if people ister in order to reap the benefits the provision of IATF Resolution istry, which serves as the basis coconut farmers and farm workers. would see names on the list and of the decades-long idled coconut No. 151-A. for the number of people to be The PCA’s next step is to conthey think they are not coconut levy fund. “We will not stop at 3.1 He noted Hong Kong, which has covered by the utilization of the duct an exclusion-inclusion profarmers or their details are incormillion. We hope that more indiconfirmed a case of the Omicron P75-billion coconut levy fund. cedure by making the updated rect, they can report it to the PCA viduals will register in our coconut By Cai U. Ordinario Carlos G. vowedhe added. insurancefarmers agencies and the revethose that received from BDO variant, willfunds also fall under the Yel Philippine Coconut Authority farmers’ registry public, retary providforDominguez immediateIII action,” registry,” he said. @caiordinario to push for a unified cybersecurity nue and treasury agencies to enter Unibank accounts. These transactions low list countries. (PCA) Deputy Administrator Roel ing everyone the opportunity to The PCA official noted that The updating of the coconut Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz system. respective memoranda on socialof media by for The suspension the rules M. Rosales said about 3.11 million check the veracity of the list, Rothe completion of the initial into list their farmers registry is mandated by have been flagged @joveemarie Dominguez told reporters on of agreement (MOAs) on a shared clients as fraudulent. “Green List” countries will be in coconut farmers and farm worksales added. of coconut farmers registry would Republic Act (RA) 11524 or the & Butch Fernandez Monday to the De- expected cyber-defense strategy. effect from November 28, 2021 to ers have been registered with the “The list will be posted in public he will be “suggest” just in time for the Coconut Industry Trust Fund Act. partment Information and Com The DOF chief’s proposal came afBanks concerned December 15, 2021. See “3-M farmers,” A2 government since it started up- @butchfBM spaces where people can easily see of rollout of coconut levy-funded munications Technology (DICT) the ter BDO Unibank Inc. admitted that DOMINGUEZ told reporters he is Continued on A2 ROM the halls of Congress and adoption of an arrangement created “a sophisticated fraud technique” has “very aware” of the complaints of of financial regulators, words by the insurance cluster for a shared affected some of its clients. many depositors and have brought the n US 50.4600 n JAPAN 0.4374 have n UKechoed 67.2329 across n HKthe 6.4722 n CHINA 7.9013 n SINGAPORE 36.8968 n AUSTRALIA 36.2807 n Bank EU 56.5758 n SAUDI matter ARABIAup13.4531 BSP (November 26, 2021) street cybersecurity system. Likewise, Union of the Philto theSource: top management of that government is taking the “digital T he Depa r t ment of Fi n a nce ippines Inc. (UBP) President Edwin the banks concerned and the Bangko pickpocketing” cited in social media (DOF) chief earlier instructed govR. Bautista—quoted by Bayan Muna Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) “as early as seriously. er nment f inancia l inst it ut ions Party-list representatives—said that two weeks ago.” So serious in fact that Finance Sec(GFIs), state-run pension fund and fewer than 10 of its clients were among See “Cybersecurity,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 50.3300

SHARED CYBERSECURITY SETUP EYED AMID BREACHES

n JAPAN 0.4443 n UK 66.7074 n HK 6.4539 n CHINA 7.9011 n SINGAPORE 36.9069 n AUSTRALIA 36.0363 n EU 56.9635 n SAUDI ARABIA 13.4167

Source: BSP (December 13, 2021)

News

BusinessMirror

A2 Tuesday, December 14, 2021

www.businessmirror.com.ph

PHL welcomes bid to boost G7-Asean engagement F

OREIGN Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. welcomed initiatives to bolster Asean-G7 partnership and advance the Asean outlook on the Indo-Pacific, seen to maintain a region that is inclusive and based on the rule of law. He said “we value your support” as G7 members issued statements on upholding an international rules-based order in the South China Sea, including the reaffirmation of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) and the 2016 Award on the South China Sea arbitration. “There is great potential in synergizing the G7 members’ Indo-Pacific strategies and the Asean Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. They have common objectives,” Locsin said as he attended the inaugural G7Asean Foreign and Development Ministers’ Meeting on Sunday in Liverpool, United Kingdom. Locsin said that the landmark ministerial meeting acknowledged the importance of the Indo-Pacific Region and was “a critical step in our joint efforts to strengthen global

DOF...

cooperation and engagement.” He expressed the Philippines’s support for the strengthening of the AseanG7 cooperation. The meeting discussed AseanG7 cooperation on shared security and regional collaboration; vaccines and global health security; infrastructure, economic growth and technology; climate change; and gender equality. In their statement, the Ministers welcomed the engagement and cooperation between the G7 and Asean, which is important

Continued from A1

Last month, Agriculture Undersecretary Fermin D. Adriano said only about 22 percent or some 44,000 MT of the 200,000 MT pork MAV+ has been availed by importers. Adriano attributed the anemic

utilization of the MAV+ to the numerous non-tariff measures imposed by certain DA agencies, including the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS), in the implementation of the expanded import program.

for tackling shared global and regional challenges, and looked forward to closer cooperation between the G7 and Asean. On Covid-19 response and recovery, Locsin highlighted the common goal of vaccinating as many people as possible, and expressed appreciation for G7 commitments to provide the world with over two billion vaccine doses. On shared security and regional collaboration, he welcomed statements of support by G7 members. “Unclos and the 2016 Arbitral Award are the twin anchors of Philippine positions and activities in the South China Sea. We will not raise anchor and drift or sail away from them. We value your support,” Locsin said. He also underlined the continued push for the swift and full implementation of Asean’s Five-Point Consensus on Myanmar, which, he

stressed, “continues to be part of Asean” despite Myanmar’s absence from recent meetings of the bloc. “In this time of the pandemic, the people of Myanmar should be protected from violence and harassment,” Locsin said. He also protested any form of human rights abuses, violence, and marginalization of the Afghan people, especially women and girls; and reiterated the Philippine view that the pursuit of amity in the Korean Peninsula is “the collective responsibility of our entire region.” The Group of 7, or G7, is composed of the United Kingdom, USA, Canada, Japan, Germany, France, and Italy, while the EU usually attends its high-level meetings. Asean, Australia, India, and the Republic of Korea were invited to attend this year’s G7 Foreign and Development Ministers’ Meeting in Liverpool.

Dominguez also said he is not “entirely satisfied” with the implementation of measures that modified pork tariffs, citing certain “regulations” imposed by the DA and NMIS which hampered government efforts to bring down the retail price of pork. “Not entirely, as I understand there were regulations by the DA/ NMIS limiting the access of im-

ported pork to certain markets,” he said. Dominguez said the DOF will study the possibility of extending or adjusting the lower pork tariffs stipulated in President Duterte’s EO 134. Under EO 134, pork imports within MAV are levied a 10-percent tariff for the first three months and 15 percent for 9 months. Out-quota pork imports are slapped with a 20percent tariff for the initial three months of implementation, which will increase to 25 percent at the start of the fourth month until the 12th month. EO 134 will expire on May 18, 2022 with pork tariffs reverting to the usual 30 percent for the inquota volume and 40 percent for the out-quota volume. Latest data released by the Bureau of Customs showed that as of December 10, the government had lost P3.679 billion in revenues since it lowered tariffs on pork imports. The BusinessMirror earlier reported that experts, including a Monetary Board member, proposed that lower pork tariffs must be made permanent and that the revenues must be allocated to the development of the domestic hog industry. Monetary Board member V. Bruce J. Tolentino told the BusinessMirror this proposal must be included in a livestock development bill that will modernize the country’s meat production. “I believe that they should be included in the discussions for the livestock development law. Look at the total tariff revenues coming from livestock and that should go all to the domestic livestock sector,” he said. “This way it is clear where the funds for the program are coming from,” he added. Tolentino noted that there are ongoing discussions between the legislative and executive branches of the government to pass a livestock development law in the current Congress. (Related story: https://businessmirror. com.ph /2021/12/06/per manent-tariff-cuts-on-meat-feedspitched/)

POGO...

Cybersecurity... He added: “A s ea rly a s 18 months ago, all the GFIs embarked upon a program to strengthen all their cybersecurity defenses in anticipation of precisely this type of criminal activity.” Dominguez expressed confidence that banks have already taken steps to protect their clients and “bring the perpetrators to justice.” He said he recently ordered the creation of a working group composed of representatives from these agencies to work on identifying the potential cybersecurity threats and cases of cyber fraud that they may encounter, and on determining ways of eliminating or mitigating these risks. Agencies have entered into MOAs for shared cybersecurity defense strategy. These include the following institutions: the Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank); United Coconut Planters’ Bank (UCPB); the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP); the Insurance Commission (IC); Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth); Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC); the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS); the Social Security System (SSS); the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr); Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR); and, the Bureau of Customs (BOC). Dominguez also said the government may tap the expertise of the private sector in coming up with a shared cyber defense strategy covering state institutions and agencies under the DOF.

Measures, mechanism

AT the House of Representatives, several lawmakers filed a resolution directing the House Committee on Banks and Financial Intermediaries to look into the reported widespread fraudulent online bank withdrawals from clients of the BDO Unibank. Bayan Muna Reps. Carlos Isagani T. Zarate, Eufemia C. Cullamat and Ferdinand R. Gaite filed House Resolution (HR) 2405 after several online bank users complained of the unauthorized online access of their bank accounts. Likewise, House Ways and Means Chairman Joey Sarte Salceda filed two resolutions calling various House committees to hold hearings not only to assess the safety features in digital banking but also the ability of law enforcement agencies to enforce laws against financial cybercrimes. Salceda filed HR 2406 urging the Committees on Public Order and Safety, and Public Accounts “to conduct hearings, in aid of legislation, on the capacity of law enforcement agencies to apprehend, detect, investigate and prosecute financial cybercrimes.” Salceda also filed HR 2407 urging the Committee on Banks and Financial Intermediaries “to conduct hearings, in aid of legislation, on the safety and security measures and user protection mechanisms being undertaken by banks and electronic payment solutions providers to protect their customers from being defrauded.” “Without adequate protections from banks for their retail users, ordinary citizens are compelled to use digital payment solutions due to mobility restrictions and convenience even when they are not certain about the security of their hard-earned savings,” Salceda said.

Bayan Muna reps

SALCEDA cited Republic Act (RA) 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act as penalizing computer-related fraud or the unauthorized input, alteration or deletion of computer data or program or interference in the functioning of a computer system, causing damage thereby with fraudulent intent.

Continued from A1

Offshore Gaming Licensees (OGLs), while P41.2 billion in taxes will be collected from the 25-percent final withholding tax from gross income of alien individual employees of OGLs from 2022 to 2023. However, Pagcor Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Andrea Domingo has said that more than half or 32 of the original 60 Pogos in the country have already left and most

have transferred to other jurisdictions. Under the Pogo tax law signed by President Duterte last month, gaming tax revenues collected from Pogos shall be allocated to the following purposes: Universal Health Care Law (60 percent); Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) of the Department of Health (20 percent); and the achievement of

Continued from A1

However, according to Salceda, law enforcement agencies do not yet have specific anti-financial crime units that are otherwise typical in other countries. “Financial crimes similar to the reports could be prosecuted under the aforementioned provision of RA 10175 if law enforcement agencies have the capacity to apprehend, detect, and investigate financial cybercrimes,” he said. Bayan Muna representatives said Congress should protect the welfare of the Filipino people against these fraudulent activities, especially amid the pandemic and economic crisis.

Ensuring measures

ACCORDING to the Party-list group, some victims posted pictures of texts and email that showed the unauthorized fund transfers. “More than the admission of the occurrence of security breach or fraud and pursuing reactive measures, the members of the banking industry, as well as the BSP, should put in place more protective measures and policies to protect the interest of the public and the integrity of the banking transactions,” the group added. The Bayan Muna representatives also called for speedy reimbursements of the affected consumers of their lost hard-earned money. BDO Unibank has released a statement saying the financial intermediary has already implemented additional security controls. The bank said it has also required its online bank users to update their passwords. The listed bank gave assurances it will reimburse the losses of affected innocent clients. For his part, BSP Governor Benjamin E. Diokno said the central bank is also “in close coordination with BDO as well as UBP on this incident to ensure that remedial measures are being undertaken, including the reimbursement of affected consumers.”

Safeguards

SENATOR Joel Villanueva asked the Duterte government last Monday to convene an inter-agency task force to promptly come up with countermeasures to effectively “block digital pickpockets” and “immediately get to the bottom of this and institute measures to prevent it from happening again.” This, as he aired growing concerns that “any delay will corrode the public’s faith in our banking system,” reminding it is “a relationship based on trust.” Villanueva suggested the President can call the DICT, the BSP, the National Privacy Commission and the National Bureau of Investigation, among others, that can be tapped to join the lead agencies in the task force. Villanueva said he was airing the appeal for heightened cybersecurity to foil digital pickpockets preying on workers’ e-wallets and bank accounts. The senator also reminded that if ordinary employees guard their hardearned money against pickpockets, “banks should also make sure cybercriminals don’t pick the digital wallets of those who gave them their hard-earned pay for safekeeping.” At the same time, the chairman of the Senate labor committee prodded government authorities to treat the security breach in one bank “as if it were a cyber-attack on our country of the grave kind.” Reminding that “this goes beyond one company,” Villanueva emphasized that “the national reputation is (also) at stake,” warning that “the Philippines cannot be seen as having a porous banking system because such weakness will only entice cyber criminals to attack us.”

the Sustainable Development Goals (20 percent). Pagcor or any special economic zone authority or tourism zone authority or free port authority may also impose a regulatory fee on Pogos, which shall not cumulatively exceed 2 percent of gross gaming revenue. The accredited service providers of Pogos will be subjected to gaming taxes. Philippine-based Pogos with a license from Pagcor must also pay a 25-percent income tax for nongaming revenues.

The Nation BusinessMirror

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Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Tuesday, December 14, 2021 A3

PNP task force identifies ‘person of interest’ in newsman’s slay

By Rene Acosta

@reneacostaBM

“PERSON of interest” has been identified in the ongoing investigation into the murder of journalist Jesus Malabanan, Philippine National Police chief General Dionardo Carlos revealed on Monday.

Without mentioning the name of the suspect behind the killing, Carlos said the development would be further validated as the “Special Investigation Task Group Malabanan” convened for another case conference among the PNP investigative units. Carlos particularly cited information from testimonies of the victim’s family and colleagues who attested that they don’t know of any death threat that Malabanan received lately in connection with his profession as a journalist.

“This strengthens the possibility that the killing of Malabanan may have been more personal, than work-related,” Carlos said. Malabanan was reportedly shot by a lone gunman while he was watching television inside his small store in Calbayog City, Samar. The suspect fled aboard a motorcycle driven by a companion. Carlos said the Special Investigation Task Group Malabanan has been working relentlessly to get more information, pieces of evidence, and witnesses. “We are exerting more efforts to

establish the motive, identify the perpetrators and build a strong case leading to a successful prosecution,” he said.

Intensified anti-drugs ops

MEANWHILE, at least P20 million worth of drugs and 47 suspects were arrested by the police in a weeklong anti-illegal drugs operations. The operations were carried out from December 6, Monday until December 12, Sunday, by the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group to curb the proliferation of

illegal drugs. Based on the inventory, the operations yielded 1,064.06 grams of shabu, 15 grams of marijuana kush, a gram of marijuana dried leaves, 60,000 pieces of marijuana plants, 18,000 pieces of marijuana seedlings and two bottles of marijuana oil. “This is relentless determination at its finest. These anti-narcotic operations wouldn’t be possible without a strong intelligence gathering and careful planning from our operatives,” Carlos said.

Duque, Locsin trade barbs over botched 50-million syringe deal By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

EALTH Secretary Francisco T. Duque III on Monday said that the allegation of Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. is a “lie,” and that the Department of Health (DOH) did not drop the ball on a 50-million syringe procurement deal. Addressing the health chief’s statement, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., lashed back at Duque and said, “Don’t ever, Duque, ever, question my motives.” Locsin said the health department should have just responded to the issue “professionally on the right, not junior level.”

“Say no and explain why. The offeror answered back devastatingly,” he added. Locsin said he is the “only one out there fighting lies with truth.” The former newspaper publisher and TV/radio host said nobody can stop him from exposing the truth in social media. He is the most active Cabinet member on Twitter. In a radio interview, Duque also called the allegation of Locsin as “unfair.” Duque said that if they gave in to what Locsin wanted—to follow the price of the supplier—they will violate Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act. On Sunday, the DOH and the National Task Force (NTF) Against

Covid-19 assured that it is continuously ensuring enough supplies of syringes—both 0.3ml syringes (microsyringes) compatible for Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine, and 0.5ml auto-disable (AD) syringes for all other vaccines. “We are continuously ensuring enough supplies of syringes for our Covid-19 vaccination program—noting that 0.3ml syringes are different from 0.5ml syringes, and as such would have varying prices,” said Atty. Charade Mercado-Grande, undersecretary of the Health Regulation Team. Grande said that they are assuring the public that the DOH is continuously ensuring a “sufficient stockpile of syringes, and

that processes to obtain these are consistent with the provisions of RA 9184 or the Government Procurement Act.” The DOH and NTF clarified that two batches of procurement through Unicef were undertaken the first batch, funded through the savings from calendar year 2020 Unicef procurement, included 8 million 0.3ml syringes worth P29.1 million and were completely delivered in October 2021. The second batch, financed through the Asian Development Bank, consisted of 44 million sy ringes amounting to about P152.6 million. Of this second batch, 4 million will be delivered in December 2021

and remaining 40 million during the first quarter of 2022 due to global supply shortage. As of December 12, 3,653,000 syringes out of the 4 million have already been delivered and the rest is expected this coming week. The first and second batches of procurement through Unicef totals to 52 million of 0.3 syringes at around P3.25 per piece or USD 6.5 cents (P50 = $1), which includes cost for logistics. “Even with the delays in delivery of microsyringes, we made sure that we could still administer the Pfizer vaccines that we procured by using tuberculin syringes. The government, together with LGUs and the pri-

vate sector, is working hard to increase our vaccine coverage to protect more Filipinos against Covid-19. Through our bayanihan, we achieved 2.82 million jabs in one day,” said Secretary Vivencio “Vince” Dizon, Presidential Adviser on Covid-19 Response. Further, the DOH also procured 100 million pieces of 0.5ml AD syringes last April 2021 for P2.38 per piece, from an initial approved budget of P2.50 per piece. Thus, the DOH and the NTF claimed, the P2.38 per piece or $4.8 cents (P50 = $ 1) was used as a basis for the ongoing emergency procurement of another batch of 50 million pieces of 0.5ml AD syringes.

Economy

A4 Tuesday, December 14, 2021 Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

BusinessMirror

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PHL secures fresh $250-M ADB loan for Covid shots By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE Philippines again secured a new loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to purchase additional Covid-19 vaccines for Filipinos. ADB said the $250-million loan will be able to purchase 40 million additional doses of Covid-19 shots

for eligible children and booster shots for adults. The project, dubbed as the Second Health System Enhancement to Address and Limit Covid-19 under the Asia Pacific Vaccine Access Facility (HEAL2) Additional Financing, will be co-financed by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. “The Philippines has continuously enhanced its capacities for testing, tracing, isolating, and treating Covid-19 cases and vigorously pursued Covid-19 inoculation for its population,” ADB Principal Social Sector Specialist for Southeast Asia Sakiko Tanaka said. “ADB is supporting the government’s drive to provide vaccines to protect its citizens and save lives, especially with the emergence of new Covid-19 variants. Vaccination will allow the health system to better manage the effects of the virus and will help sustain economic recovery.

It is key to the country’s full recovery from the pandemic,” she added. ADB said the new assistance builds on ADB’s active support for the country’s overall Covid-19 health response and its universal health-care program. Through the amended Health System Enhancement to Address and Limit Covid-19 under the Asia Pacific Vaccine Access Facility, or HEAL, approved in January 2021, ADB provided advance payments for vaccines and purchases of microsyringes and other vaccine-related items. It also financed investments in health infrastructure to complement vaccine financing, such as the upgrading of laboratories and construction of isolation facilities. Through HEAL2, which was approved in March 2021, ADB helped purchase 85.6 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines through bilateral agreements, with 81 percent of the supply delivered as of December 2, 2021, or half of the country’s vaccine supply. More than 98 percent of the funds from HEAL2 have been committed for vaccine supply contracts as of December 6, 2021.

Jobs, jobs, jobs

By Henry J. Schumacher

EOPLE need work to achieve livelihood security and give their lives purpose. However, there are not enough jobs available, and in recent years the gap between ambition and reality in the labor market has become even wider. Young people are most affected by unemployment; for them, finding work is particularly difficult. If they do find a job, they must often endure unfavorable working conditions. For many people unemployment equals poverty and a lack of prospects. Let’s look at some highlights: Nine out of 10 jobs are provided by the private sector. In other words, government should treat the private sector nicely. Young people make up just 25 percent of the work force but 40 percent of the unemployed. It is essential that we look at entrepreneurship, incubators, and a “start-up” environment. But again, the private sector has to get involved and assist in the transition from unemployed to entrepreneur. If every child is to receive at least a basic education, many more teachers will be required. Labor market policy is regarded as a tool that can solve many of the major problems of our modern age. But it can only work if it also reaches people without regular jobs. Here, the K to 12 program and appreticeship can assist in the transition in the “supply-chain” from student immersion to apprenticeship to employment. DepEd, DOLE, Tesda and enlightened companies have to make that possible. As automation proceeds, many jobs will be lost. We have to come up with new ways of generating income or else our economies face disruptions. Education has to move up the value-chain. Some experts fear that digitalization will wipe-out of many of jobs, while others are predicting a surge in employment. One thing is certain: digitalization will turn our working world on its head yet again and will likely bring about a transformation as radical as that which resulted from industrialization. The most important difference is that machines are now beginning to think. Computers are now learning by themselves, which is why technology is going to replace all kinds of work—

anything that is somehow routine and predictable regardless of the industry and in many cases regardless of skill and education. That includes assembly-line type jobs which have, for the most part, already disappeared. But it also includes occupations like flipping hamburgers or driving vehicles. And most importantly it includes a huge number of knowledgebased jobs where you have people sitting in front of a computer doing the same kinds of tasks again and again. Globalization of employment will continue to be a key trend in future. Here too, digitalization is the strongest driver. International software corporations already employ large numbers of developers in the Indian city of Bangalore, while European companies are operating sharedservices and technical support activities out of the Philippines. The Philippines has long been a global center of businessprocess outsourcing—the contracting of business activities to a third-party provider. Demand for these services will increase: a study by Roland Berger, the global strategy consultancy, forecasts that in 2030, there will be a shortage of around 50 million trained workers on the European market across a variety of sectors, but especially in the IT industry. This is the chance for Filipinos! So there is no shortage of work ahead —but right across the globe, the biggest task will be to make sure that this translates into the right education for the new job market entries. Given this situation and outlook, it is worrying to see in the IMD World Talent Ranking 2021 report that the Philippines dropped nine spots in an annual global ranking of countries’ ability to attract and retain a skilled work force, as the coronavirus pandemic disrupted the education of millions of young Filipinos. The main factors affecting the Philippines’s performance in investment and development are the effective implementation of apprenticeship programs, the quality of education (measured as pupil-teacher ratio in primary and secondary schools). Let me repeat the wise words of Ramon del Rosario, chairman of Philippine Business for Education: “It’s the private sector that is creating the jobs. But government has to create an enabling environment for the jobs to be created!” Development will require not only a corps of highly skilled individuals capable of absorbing advance technology; it will also require a minimum of scientific literacy and technological skill; it will also need the setting of professional standards, the delineation of fields of expertise, and the organization of communities of knowledge. Education can no longer afford to leave anybody behind. All young people—whethertheygotocollegeornot— will need a similar set of core competencies if they are to succeed in today’s labor markets. Government, the private sector and civil society have to work closely together to Safe the Children. We all have to understand that an organization is only as good as the people it employs and trains. Feedback is appreciated, please contact me at hjschumacher59@gmail.com

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SBCorp extends 13th-month loan application deadline for small biz

ICRO and small businesses will have another week to apply for the interest-free loan facility from the Small Business Corporation (SBCorp) to pay for the 13th month of their workers, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). This after the SBCorp opted to extend yet again the deadline for the said loan facility from December 14, 2021 to December 21, 2021 due to the small number of applicants. The initial deadline for applications was on December 7, 2021 before it was reset to a later date. At a virtual news briefing on Monday, DOLE spokesman Rolly Francia disclosed that of the P500-million budget allocated by SBCorp for the program, only P29.6 million were released to 135 qualified loan applicants. Currently, he said, another 653

enterprises have pending applications with SBCorp. The program is expected to benefit between 6,000 and 7,000 establishments. “So we are calling on other micro and small enterprises to avail of this facility of the Small Business Corporation of DTI [Department of Trade and Industry],” Francia said. SBCorp in partnership with DOLE launched the program last month to help micro and small firms affected by business disruption caused by the pandemic and are struggling to pay the mandated 13th-month pay for their workers. To qualify from the program, the applicant must be included in DOLE’s list of 8,000 vetted small and micro firms, which implemented flexible work arrangements from March 2020 until October 15, 2021. Samuel P. Medenilla

Tuesday, December 14, 2021 A5

DTI sees PHL-China ecozone cooperation

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

@TyronePiad

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is backing a proposal that will link local and Chinese economic zones through a cooperation, which is expected to boost investment and trade.

Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said that the proposed partnership can enhance the tourism, movement of goods and services, technology and foreign direct investment inflows in Manila and Beijing. “We see a potential synergy between the two economic zones in China and the Philippines,” he said

during the recent Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)-Electrical Industry Cooperation Matchmaking online event. Among the investment opportunities proposed by Rodolfo are assembly and manufacture of finished products, and innovation and digital technologies or startups. He also pitched the country

as a complementary location for production of high technology export products. As such, the DTI official said, they are ready to assist China in identifying potential partners to develop industrial parks locally. He said that Chinese investors can develop economic zones into “eco-townships or smart cities, complete with embedded renewable energy sources and other utilities, a dedicated port, and a self-sustaining business ecosystem to support the growth of industry clusters” as well following the new ecozone model. Rodolfo cited China as an “important” business partner of the country as both are parties to the mega trade deal RCEP. “We are targeting to complete the whole process [ratification] within this year. The RCEP will build on our

already strong international partnership through the Asean-China Free Trade Agreement,” he said. The trade deal is set to enter into force by January next year after meeting the minimum number of ratification by signatories. It was signed in November last year by Asean and its free trade deal partners. In addition, the official shared that the DTI and China-Asean Business Council (CABC) inked a memorandum of understanding on economic and trade strategic cooperation framework. “As the taking effect of the RCEP is a month away, the CABC and the RCEP Industry Cooperation Committee are assisting the synergistic cooperation of specific industries and enterprises in RCEP memberstates to improve the effectiveness of cooperation,” he said.

Economic security for every Filipino possible if people united–BBM-Sara

TABLE jobs and financial security of Filipinos would be among their top priorities if given the opportunity to serve as leaders of the country in 2022, according to presidential aspirant Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his runningmate vice presidential aspirant Inday Sara Duterte. Addressing supporters during their Uniteam caravan in Cavite recently, Marcos said he understands that the economic security of every family is a basic need, and his administration will prioritize this concern.

“All of us desire to see every Filipino able to get back his job. Have money in their pockets to buy their needs, and feel not just some economic relief but also some hope in a better future,” the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) standard-bearer said, mostly in Filipino. Marcos said one of the keys to a brighter future is to make the people feel there is hope and that they are secured while “we are focused on our efforts to rise as a nation after the debilitating effects of the pandemic.”

He urged people to “look at experience. Let us look at our nation’s history. In all the crises the Philippines faced, we only recovered when we were united. When we Filipinos helped each other. When we practiced bayanihan, our natural trait,” Marcos Jr. told the crowd. He said one of the issues he and his running mate agreed upon when they forged their tandem was to become a “symbol of unity.” “If someone from Ilocos and another from Davao, coming from opposite corners of the country, can

be together, then perhaps all Filipinos can be like that—reunited once more,” he added. Duterte, on the other hand, said it is imperative that “we help each other especially during these precarious times.” She emphasized that this is one of the reasons why she did not think twice about teaming up with Marcos Jr., who had a vision for the country. “Before I agreed to join him I asked what is there to be done now that the country is faced with several

challenges. He told me, ‘Inday Sara, even before the pandemic, there were people mired in poverty. When the pandemic struck, we were all somehow hit. The pandemic has wrought different impacts on the lives of Filipinos,” she related. Duterte also recalled Marcos Jr telling her: “People need money. People need jobs, which will bring in the money. People should learn to be entrepreneurs. We should have entrepreneurs in all areas of the country because that creates jobs and that’s what people need—

money and jobs.” Duterte said when she heard those words, she immediately realized that she had made the right decision to stand behind Marcos. “One question, one answer. He told me all that I needed to know. Why UniTeam? We call it UniTeam and we want to show you all that in the next six years we should all be united,” she said. Marcos and Duterte thanked their Caviteño supporters and promised a better life for Filipinos under their leadership.

A4 Tuesday, December 14, 2021 A6

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SC reminds banks of role in protecting clients’ cash T

HE Supreme Court (SC) has reminded banks their business is “impressed with public interest” and, thus, it is their duty to safeguard the money of their clients and depositors who transact with them. In a 3-page resolution in the case of “BDO Unibank Inc. v. Mapua Institute of Technology Retirement Fund Inc.,” or MITRFI, the Court’s First Division also declared it is the obligation of banking institutions to treat their client’s account “meticulously and with the highest degree of care.” “The diligence required of banks, therefore, is more than that of a good father of a family. The appropriate diligence required of a bank must be a

high degree of diligence, if not utmost diligence,” the Court emphasized in the decision made public last December 9. Thus, the Court affirmed the December 11, 2018, decision and the August 5, 2019, resolution issued by the Court of Appeals that held that BDO failed to exercise the degree of diligence required of it as a banking institution in handling the account of MITRFI. ItheldthatBDOfailedtoexercisethe utmost diligence when it allowed the encashment of altered checks of MITRFI. The checks, which indicated the payee as “BIR/CASH,” according to the Court, should have aroused suspicion on the part of BDO that the transactions were irregular, considering that

it is highly uncommon for a corporation to make out checks payable to “CASH” for substantial amounts. The SC said the bank should have made it a point to verify the transactions with MITRFI’s authorized signatories. “Had it done so, it would have discovered that the checks were really intended for payment of taxes to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) by MITRFI only and were altered to include the phrase ‘CASH’.” “In allowing the encashment of the altered checks by MITRFI’s fund manager, Proceso Palabrica III, BDO had beenremissinitsdutytotreatMITRFI’s account ‘meticulously and the highest

degree of care,’” the Court held. The High Tribunal pointed out during the trial of the case before the lower court that BDO’s witnesses testified that for checks in amounts of greater than P200,000, it is the company’s policy to call the authorized signatories of the check to verify and confirm the encashment of the checks. However, the trial court and the CA said that aside from the assertion of this company policy, BDO failed to prove by clear and convincing evidence that for the checks subject of this case, its bank employees indeed called up the authorized signatories of MITRFI to verify the unauthorized withdrawals. Joel R. San Juan

Petro companies adjust fuel pump prices ahead of Christmas week By Lenie Lectura

@llectura

OCAL pump prices are on the rise again. Oil firms on Monday announced a hefty price increase in gasoline, diesel and kerosene. They raise gasoline prices by P1.60 per liter, diesel by P1.35 per liter and kerosene by P1.20 per liter. This is the first oil price increase for this month. The price adjustment also comes after five consecutive weeks of oil price rollbacks. Seaoil, PTT Philippines, Caltex, Pilipinas Shell said as of this writing that they will implement the price increase at 6 a.m. of Tuesday, December 14. Cleanfuel, meanwhile, will implement its price increase at 4:01 p.m. Other oil firms are expected to also adjust prices of their petroleum products soon. Oil companies adjust their prices weekly to reflect movements in the world oil market.

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DOF official pushes passage of warehouse receipts bill to stabilize commodity prices

HE Department of Finance (DOF) said the passage of the Warehouse Receipts Bill would help the country attain food security and maintain stable commodity prices. In an economic bulletin, DOF Chief Economist and Undersecretary Gil Beltran said storage facilities are important in keeping prices low and attaining food security. Beltran explained that transportation infrastructure geographically links farms and markets, storage smoothens consumption across time and between seasons. “Storage, especially cold storage facilities, are crucial in stabilizing food prices and help ensure food security. Once passed, the Warehouse Receipts Bill will usher in the professionalization of the warehousing sector and contribute to food security,” Beltran said. He added that while inflation slowed in November, the monthon-month (M-o-M) increase in meat and fish prices should be addressed. The DOF Chief Economist said it is also important to implement liberal import measures that will also help keep commodity prices stable, especially during the holidays. “The high MOM inflation for meat and fish reminds authorities to adopt more liberal import measures to meet the peak demand during the holiday season,” he stressed. DOF noted that the country’s headline inflation rate further decelerated to 4.2 percent in November, slowing down from 4.6 percent

in October. Between January and November, DOF said headline inflation averaged 4.46 percent. Food inflation eased to 4.15 percent in November from 5.65 percent in October with the deceleration in price inflation of meat (to 10.65 percent from 11.85 percent), fish (to 7.91 percent from 9.46 percent), and vegetables (to minus 1.85 percent from 11.39 percent). DOF said this more than offset the acceleration in non-food price inflation. Non-food price inflation accelerated further to 4.1 percent in November from 3.85 percent in October, largely on account of utilities and fuels sub-group (to 12.32 percent from 11.13 percent) and the transport group (to 8.84 percent from 7.06 percent). The Dubai crude oil price averaged $79.8 per barrel (bbl) in November, up from $42.58/bbl in the same month of last year although down from $81.22/bbl in October of this year. The October Dubai oil price was the highest since November 2014. DOF also stated that on a monthly basis, the general price level increased by 0.69 percent due to food (1.1 percent from minus 0.15 percent). Meat prices also rose month-on-month by 2.41 percent as pork supply continues to fall below demand levels, while fish rose by 2.06 percent as the closed fishing season starts. The data also showed nonfood price inflation moderated month-on-month to 0.41 percent from 0.50 percent after oil prices peaked in October. Cai U. Ordinario

Cebuanos learn new skills in agribusiness By Jonathan L. Mayuga

@jonlmayuga

GROUP of 23 farmers from Cebu are now ready to run their own agribusiness after graduating from the Farm Business School of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). Farmer-members of the Tubod Farmers’ Association (TUFA) gained new skills, both in farming and knowledge on basic agricultural business like management and basic accounting, after the training initiated by DAR-Cebu. DAR-Cebu Chief Agrarian Reform Program Officer (CARPO) for Program Beneficiaries Development Division (PBDD) Lilian B. Guanzon said farming is also a business because they need to manage it to make it profitable and market-driven.

“The DAR implements FBS [farm business school] throughout the country and I challenge you to follow the other graduates who made it and apply the knowledge and skills you learned from the training and transform lands awarded to you into a flourishing business,” said Guanzon to the graduates of Barangay Tubod in Sibonga town. FBS aims to develop agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) to become agricultural entrepreneurs, and it is designed to help farmers learn and improve their knowledge and skills in entrepreneurship and farm business management. Jona Oro, who is now TUFA’s bookkeeper, said through FBS, they learned the importance of recording all their farm activities so that they could create their farm busi-

CDC to hold 26th recyclables event from Dec. 14 to 16

LARK FREEPORT—The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) through its Environmental Permits Division (EPD) will be holding its 26th Recyclables and Hazardous Waste Collection Event from December 14 to 16, 2021 in this Freeport. The three-day event is in partnership with the Environmental Practitioners Association (EPA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), which aims to collect various wastes from Clark residents and locators. Among the hazardous wastes that will be collected are acid wastes and inorganic acids, alkali waste, contaminated containers, nonhalogenated organic solvents, Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), busted lamps or bulbs, inks and dyes, and paint sludge. CDC and DENR-accredited environmental service providers will also be collecting white goods such as refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, toasters, ovens, and the like. Used lead acid batteries, used oil, used cooking oil, oil contaminated materials, and special wastes such as consumer electronics and health care wastes are included in the list of hazardous wastes that will be collected on

the said activity. The state-owned firm urges all participants who will be bringing hazardous materials to ensure the wastes are leak-free during transport for safety purposes. Meanwhile, the collection of recyclables such as PET bottles, aluminum cans, scrap materials, white papers, cartons, and all types of plastic will also continue. Some of CDC’s partner service providers that will be present during the activity are Joechem Environmental Corp., Dolomatrix Philippines Inc., Envirogreen Environmental Resources Inc., ADL Envirotechnology Inc., Semirecycling Co., Inc., and Envirocare Management Precision Inc., among others. CDC was able to secure a three-day clearance from DENR-EMB Central Office to hold this bi-annual event which aims to promote proper segregation and trade of recyclable materials to help address the country’s waste problem. Those who are interested may fill out the Inventory Form and submit to CDC EPD via email at environment@cdcepd.com or bring the form during the event. For large transactions or hauling, they may also call CDC EPD at (045) 499 1137 to 38 for the drive-by (locator’s area) schedule of collection or on-site (event place) delivery.

ness plan. She added that with new learning on basic business concepts, she sees the improvement they would have on their farming practices in handling and marketing their farm products. Evelyn Revilla, one of the graduates and president of the TUFA, said that on behalf of her fellow graduates they would like to thank the DAR for giving them the opportunity to learn about various entrepreneurial skills. “We will share these new learning with our fellow farmers,” she said. Among others who attended the graduation ceremony were Municipal Agrarian Reform Program Officer Liza Toroy, Development Facilitator Serviliano Del Mar of DAR Carcar Cluster, DAR Cebu FBS coordinator Marmee Padul, and other DAR personnel.

DOH logs addl 360 Covid cases on Monday; total PHL case count pegged at 2,836,803

TOTAL of 360 additional Covid-19 cases were logged by the Department of Health (DOH) on Monday, bringing the total number of infections in the country to 2,836,803.There were also 519 recoveries and 61 deaths. Of the 360 reported cases, 348 (97 percent) occurred within the recent 14 days (November 30 to December 13, 2021). The top regions with cases in the recent two weeks were National Capital Region (65 or 19 percent), Region 4A (32 or 9 percent) and Region 6 (32 or 9 percent). Due to late encoding of death information to COVIDKaya, of the 61 deaths, 9 occurred in December 2021 (15 percent), 26 in November 2021 (43 percent), 23 in October 2021 (38 percent), and 3 in September 2021 (5 percent). “This issue is currently being coordinated with the Epidemiology and Surveillance Units to ensure information is up to date,” DOH said. Of the total number of cases, 0.4 percent (11,083) are active, 97.8 percent (2,775,379) have recovered, and 1.77 percent (50,341) have died. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

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Tuesday, December 14, 2021

PHL, United States and Japan step up defense diplomacy By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

ANILA is stepping up its defense diplomacy with Washington, D.C., and Tokyo early next year by holding high-level talks among their respective foreign affairs and defense secretaries in the light of the increasing tension with China in the South China Sea and East China Sea. The PHL-US Two-Plus-Two Ministerial Dialogue will take place during the first half of 2022, before President Duterte steps down from office. Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana will meet their counterparts US State Secretary Anthony Blinken and Lloyd Austin. The Two-PlusTwo Ministerial Dialogue will also be complemented by other high-level visits and meetings, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said. “I was very pleased with their firm assurances that the United States continues to regard the Philippines as a crucial ally in the region, and that it stands ready to support the Philippines, including against armed attacks on our armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific,” Locsin said in a news statement. “We are proud to stand with you and we are very proud to see how you stood for international law,” DFA quoted the US official as saying. Meanwhile, in a phone call, Locsin spoke with his new Japanese counterpart Hayashi Yoshimasa last December 8. Both ministers agreed to promote “the early launch” of the 2+2 meeting or the Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting “for deeper security engagement and coordination” between the two countries. Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio agreed to hold

this 2+2 meeting. During the phone call, Hayashi “expressed his strong opposition to unilateral attempts to change by force the status quo in the East and South China Seas.” Locsin said that the Philippines “values Japan’s statements of support for the Arbitral Award”—which nullifies China’s claim for maritime rights over the South China Sea. Locsin said Japan’s support for international law-based order in South China Sea sends “a message of respect for outcomes of diplomatic and legal processes, as well as strengthen the legal order over the seas.” Locsin echoed President Duterte’s statement at the 13th Asem Summit Retreat that, “there can be no other acceptable basis for a just maritime order but the law, particularly the 1982 Unclos. All countries—big and small—must adhere to the rule of law faithfully and consistently. Otherwise, there will be chaos.” The two ministers also exchanged views on various regional and multilateral issues such as developments in Myanmar, the issue on North Korea, including support for measures to address the abduction of Japanese nationals, and the two countries’ commitment to the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons. Locsin recalled that he was actually the first to raise the abduction issue in the United Nations. He reiterated the contry’s support and cooperation on this issue. Advancing concrete cooperation to realize a Free and Open Indo-Pacific and on the Asean Outlook for the Indo-Pacific was, likewise, discussed. The ministers also agreed to cooperate on the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Asean-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in 2023.

NG told: Allow private sector to procure Covid-19 vaccines By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

O sustain the momentum of Covid-19 vaccination, the leader of the House of Representatives on Monday urged the national government (NG) to give the private sector a much wider role in the inoculation drive by allowing them to purchase vaccines directly from manufacturers. Speaker Lord Allan Velasco, in a news statement, said the national government could start by reviewing and revising the policy on Covid-19 vaccine procurement. “Since there is now ample supply of safe and effective Covid-19 vaccines globally, it is time that the national government consider allowing the private sector to deal directly with manufacturers to ensure a more sustainable and dependable supply of life-saving vaccines for Filipinos,” Velasco said. Citing Republic Act 11525, or the Covid-19 Vaccination Program Act of 2021, Velasco said private companies and local government units (LGUs) are authorized to procure vaccines which have been given emergency use authorization (EUA) through a tripartite agreement with manufacturers and the national government, represented by the Department of Health (DOH) and the National Task Force Against Covid-19 (NTF). Velasco, principal author of RA 11525, said he was open to amending the law to allow private companies to directly purchase vaccines for their workers and their dependents. The House leader said he was also amenable to devolving some responsibilities and functions in the Covid-19 vaccination program from the national government to LGUs. Velasco said that granting the private sector the authority to directly purchase Covid-19 shots will “relieve pressure on government resources considering that

vaccine procurement and administration entails a lot of logistical challenges.” “By granting the private sector greater participation in the vaccination campaign, the government can focus its resources on the inoculation of frontliners, uniformed personnel and vulnerable sectors,” Velasco said. “The amount the government will save can be channeled to efforts to help economic recovery post-pandemic,” he added. Given the high-level of efficiency associated with the private sector, Velasco said its greater involvement in Covid-19 vaccination would enhance government efforts to ensure rapid and efficient rollout of available vaccines. Earlier, several business groups also asked the government to allow them to use its Covid-19 vaccines as booster shots for employees and their families. The private sector groups said that boosters are a must in order to avoid another strict lockdown measures as vaccine efficacy wanes after six months.

Immunity

VELASCO also urged the DOH and NTF to make public any findings as to how long does Covid-19 vaccine-induced immunity last. “They should inform the public how long a certain vaccine brand lasts so that people would know when they get a booster or get inoculated again,” Velasco said. Velasco had earlier lauded the national government for its aggressive vaccination efforts, which resulted in the dramatic decline in Covid-19 infection rates, particularly in the National Capital Region where a good number of residents are already fully vaccinated. The government has conducted the National Covid-19 Vaccination Days, where an additional 9.9 million Filipinos were vaccinated from November 29 to December 3. The vaccination drive will have a second run from December 15 to 17.

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Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Pricier fireworks seen amid costlier production

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad @TyronePiad

ith the New Year celebration just around the corner, pyrotechnic manufacturers may be selling fireworks at a higher price tag now due to more expensive input for production. Philippine Pyrotechnic Manufacturers and Dealers Association (PPMDA) president Lea Alapide said at a Laging Handa briefing on Monday that the chemicals used in manufacturing the fireworks have gone up amid the pandemic. For example, she said that a sack of chloride now costs P10,500, which is markedly higher compared to the previous price of P3,700. Still, Alapide is banking on the Filipino tradition to drive the sales, especially after the strict regulations in the use of fireworks last year.

“Ang totoo po, dahil po sa last year medyo nahigpitan po tayo nang todo, talagang sabik naman din po ang mga individual na consumer [The truth is, because there were some restrictions last year, the individual consumers now are excited to buy],” she said. But retailers are having a hard time securing their licenses to sell from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the local government units (LGUs), she said, noting that many of their applications have remained pending. Alapide requested to ease the entire process so the retailers may be able to transact

immediately. This, in addition to asking for the approval of the application for licenses. The PPMDA official, meanwhile, assured the government that it is against the selling of illegal fireworks. “Ever since po talaga pong ayaw naman din po namin iyong mga malalakas na dati na pong nakakalusot at kaisa po namin ang gobyerno rin po sa pagmamanman noong mga iligal pong iyan (Ever since, we are against the selling of the banned fireworks and we are one with the government in monitoring the illegal activities),” she said. As such, she enjoined the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to strengthen the monitoring of fireworks being sold in the market as well as the enforcement of the related regulations. Doing so will help the licensed vendors to generate more sales, Alapide said. The DTI, for its part, oversees the quality of the products in the market, including the fireworks. As of December 9, the following companies have secured valid Philippine Standard Certification Mark licenses: Dragon Fireworks Inc. Diamond Fireworks Inc., Leegendary Fireworks, Inc. Pegasus Fireworks, Phoenix Fireworks and Double L Fireworks. Recently, the PNP said they are banning the use of firecrackers and similar devices amid the holidays again, which have resulted in lower cases of injuries last year. But the police stations will work with LGUs in identifying designated zones for firecrackers for safety.

OFW repat flights from Diego Garcia now arriving via Subic

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

Sen. Imee’s bill proposes cheaper Internet access for work and biz

enator Imee Marcos has proposed cheaper Internet access for lowincome groups so that more Filipinos can benefit from working, learning, and doing business online. “If lifeline rates are being given to water and electricity consumers, why can’t we give similar discounts for internet access?” Marcos said in a news statement. T he socia l i zed pr icing mec ha nism is a solut ion amid the slow expansion of free wifi access in poorer areas and can already be put in place by the government and telecommunications firms, according to Senate Bill 2102, named the “Public Telecommunications Policy Act of the Philippines.” The Marcos bill prescribes a lifeline rate for broadband and data use based on consumption thresholds of not lower t ha n one g igaby te

Unused Pfizer, Sinovac shots can still be used after 6 months–FDA By Samuel P. Medenilla

Contract workers from Diego Garcia arrive at the Subic Bay International Airport on Monday, Dec. 13.

By Henry Empeño

UBIC BAY FREEPORT—Filipino contract workers in the island military outpost of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean can now come home via repatriation flights by Philippine Airlines (PAL) to Subic. The first PAL flight from Diego Garcia to Subic arrived here on Monday, Dec. 13, after the Philippine flag carrier decided to expand its “Bayanihan” flights to bring home more overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in time for the holidays, said Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma. OFW flights via the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) began last July under

the government’s repatriation program to assist Filipinos stranded abroad because of the Covid-19 pandemic. “With this, Subic is now connected to 10 cities and major destinations in the IndoPacific area,” Eisma said on Monday. “We are now the gateway for OFWs coming from the Middle East, as well as Asian ports.” She said the areas with PAL connections to Subic now include Riyadh and Dammam in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, Doha in Qatar, Macau, Palau, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, and now Diego Garcia. The latest PAL flight brought to Subic a total of 303 passengers, who are mostly contract workers from Diego Garcia, said SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for

Operations Ronnie Yambao. One of them was Oscar Ebalan, a native of Masinloc, Zambales, who arrived with his son Aldean, also a contract worker employed by KBR Diego Garcia LLC, a military contractor which provides operations, maintenance, and logistics services in the island. Ebalan said the OFW flight from Diego Garcia to Subic took more than seven hours non-stop, a more difficult long haul compared to the usual flights that normally made a brief stopover at Singapore. “But we arrived safe and OK, and the arrival procedures at Subic went smoothly,” he said, adding that they expect to be home after the mandatory quarantine and the requisite RT-PCR test five days upon arrival here. Eisma said the SBMA expects more OFW flights via Subic before the yearend, but stressed that none of these would originate from countries that the Philippine government has placed on its red list in view of the emergence of the Omicron virus variant. “We can be assured that no passengers will be brought here from any red-listed country because the government has prohibited the inbound international travel of all persons from red-list areas regardless of vaccination status,” Eisma said. SBMA airport manager Zharrex Santos said that prior to the flight from Diego Garcia, the Subic airport also received recent arrivals from Dubai—a total of 280 passengers on Dec. 10, and 269 passengers on Dec. 12. Santos said that since July, the Subic airport has received a total of 45 OFW flights and processed a total of 12,262 passengers under the government’s OFW repatriation program.

(1GB) per month. “Low-income end-users need more than just the occasional mobile promo, with Internet access becoming a necessity just like water and electricity. Work-from-home arrangements, online education, e-commerce and internet banking are here to stay,” the Senate economic affairs committee chairman said. Although the Philippines ranked 48th overall out of 110 countries in the Digital Quality of Life Index 2021, its Inter net affordabilit y ranked 72nd—the lowest among the five criteria on wh ic h d ig it a l we l l-bei ng was assessed by the Netherlands-based cybersecurity firm Surfshark. In the other four criteria, the Philippines ranked 20th in internet quality, 30th in internet security, 63rd in einfrastructure, and 67th in e-government.

@sam_medenilla

ovid-19 vaccines manufactured by Pfizer and Sinovac Biotech could now be locally used beyond six months, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This after FDA approved the amendment of both pharmaceutical firms in their respective Emergency Use Authorization of their Covid-19 jabs last month. FDA Director General Enrique “Eric” D. Domingo said Pfizer was able to submit scientific proof that its vaccine will remain effective after 9 months. Meanwhile, Sinovac was able to ensure that its vaccines can still be used even after 12 months.

“All of their manufactured [Covid-19] vaccines products would be covered by the extension,” Domingo said in an interview with PTV last Monday. He noted prior to the amended EUAs, the Covid-19 vaccine jabs of Pfizer and Sinovac were only given a shelf life of 6 months since both were still fairly new in the market when these were used. Domingo said the Covid-19 vaccine brands being used in the country could also be given an extended shelf life if they will also be able to show needed scientific data. “They need to show evidence that with the extended shelf life their vaccine will still be useful, safe, and of good quality,” Domingo said.

Strong quake shakes Calatagan, Batangas

5.3 magnitude earthquake struck Calatagan, Batangas at exactly 5:12 p.m. on Monday, December 13, 2021, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported. In its Earthquake Information No. 1 released at 5:20. p.m., Phivolcs said the earthquake with a depth of 99 kilometers was strongly felt in Quezon City and as far as San Felipe, Zambales but the epicenter was in Calatagan, Batangas. It was also felt in Tagaytay City, Batangas City and Calatagan, Batangas which recorded Intensity I –strong earthquake. Phivolcs said no damage is expected but warned the public that aftershocks are likely to occur. Jonathan L. Mayuga

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Tuesday, December 14, 2021 A9

‘Ridiculous’: Calls to defer May polls not likely to fly–Comelec

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

HE Commission on Elections said a long-term postponement of the 2022 polls is unlikely to succeed for being unconstitutional.

At a virtual news briefing on Mond ay, Come lec s pokesm a n James Jimenez said attempts to reset the next elections to 2023 or

2025 are “ridiculous” as such will involve changing the Constitution. “When you call for suspension of elections of this magnitude, na-

tionwide and for at least a year, you’re basically saying ignore the Constitution,” Jimenez said. To implement such a proposal, the Constitution needs to be amended and go through a plebiscite, he explained. Another hindrance for such recommendation is the lack of any law to allow currently elected officials to extend their term beyond next year. “Which means that if you suspend elections for 2023, then that means you have an entire year with no elected officials,” Jimenez said. The poll official noted Comelec has the power to defer the conduct of an election, but usually in specific areas and only for a short time.

“Comelec can suspend elections when conditions for free and fair elections don’t exist. Example, if there is a fire or flood [which destroyed] the ballots or if all of the teachers become infected with Covid-19 [novel coronavirus disease]. We can suspend elections but only while the reason exists,” Jimenez said. Comelec issued the statement after the Coalition for Life and Democracy (NCLD) called for the deferment of the 2022 polls to a later year. Jimenez said Comelec en banc could still take up the matter one it gets a formal petition on the matter, but he noted it has a low chance of being approved.

Comelec rejects motions of intervention on petitions seeking BBM’s COC voiding T O expedite the resolution of pending cases against presidential aspirant Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., the Commission on Elections Second Division “rejected” all the motions for intervention on a petition seeking the cancellation of the Certificate of Candidacy (COC) of the former lawmaker. Among the interventions affected by the order from the Second Division are those from the group of Rommel D. Bautista (Bautista Motion), the group of Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr. (Tamayo Motion), and the Partido

Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP Motion), the political party which nominated Marcos. In the case of Bautista, the Comelec Second Division cited its “discretion” when it denied the said motion since it will “unduly delay” the resolution of the pending case filed by the group of Buenafe against Marcos. Buenafe’s group is petitioning to have Marcos’ COC canceled for making false claims in his COC, even though he was convicted of tax-related violations. Likewise, the Comelec Second Division noted that “allowing” the

intervention of Bautista will “encourage other possible intervention to file their own motions for interventions.” Last, it described the Bautista Motion as a crafty attempt to circumvent the reglementary period of filing a petition 25 days from the filing of the COC. In the case of Tamayo, the Comelec Second Division called out its petition for failing to furnish a copy of its case to the Marcos camp. It also noted that both the Tamayo and the PFP motions, if approved, will give undue advantage to respondent

Marcos by allowing him to get additional defenses in his case, which was not included in his original answer to the petition seeking the cancellation of his COC. Both cases were dilatory in nature, but also failed to justify the reason for their interventions. The Comelec Second Division concluded its order on the three motions that it will no longer accept additional intervention on the Buenafe case. The members of the Comelec Second Division are commissioners Antonio T. Kho, Jr. and Socorro B. Inting. Samuel P. Medenilla

DOLE and PRetA tighten watch on ‘employed’ foreign retirees

he Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is now looking into the status of “employed” foreign retirees in the country to make sure they are compliant with local labor regulations. This after Senator Richard J. Gordon expressed concern over t he a l leged i n f lu x of foreig n “young retirees” in the country, who are still capable to work. In an online news briefing on Monday, Labor spokesman Rolly Francia said DOLE signed a memorandum of agreement with the

Philippine Retirement Authority (PRetA) last week. Under the said data-sharing accord, PRetA will be able to check if holders of Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SSRV) also have an Alien Employment Permit (AEP), which are issued by DOLE. L a b or A s s i s t a nt S e c re t a r y Dominique R. Tutay said PRetA requested the said partnership for an ongoing Senate inquiry. An SSRV is issued by PRetA to foreigners, who would like to retire in the Philippines, while an AEP allows a foreigner to work in

the country for over six months. “ We are c losely monitor ing them because there might be some [foreigners] who retired but have no cash,” Francia said. “As I understand it, they are allowed to retire here in the hope they could substantially contribute to the community where they intend to retire. So this means they should have not only talent but also economic investment,” he added. Based on DOLE’s latest data, there are currently 366 SSRV holders, who also have AEPs this year.

Of which, 188 are new AEPs, while the remaining 178 are renewals. Francia said SSRV holders could have AEP as long as they are engaged in specialized jobs, such as an engineer consultant, and not in menial jobs. L a st ye a r, S en ator G ordon raised the issue over the entry of 28,000 “young” Chinese retirees in the country and urged PReta to conduct a probe on the matter since they could still participate in the countr y’s labor market. Samuel P. Medenilla

Toledo leads new set of newly-elected COMP officers By Jonathan L. Mayuga

@jonlmayuga

he Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) has elected former Press Secretary and lawyer Michael Toledo as its next chairman, replacing Nickel Asia Corp. chairman Gerard Brimo. COMP is composed of largescale metallic mines. The group represents the country’s big players in the mining industry. Brimo, who had been at the helm of COMP since 2017, remains in the Board of Trustees and assumes the post of vicechair alongside Gloria Tan-Climaco, chairperson of Filminera Resources Corp. Toledo heads the Govern-

ment and Public Affairs Group of the Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and is the chief operating officer of Silangan Mindanao Mining Co. He will steer COMP as the nation prepares to elect a new administration that the mining industry hopes will continue to promote business stability and investor confidence. Brimo helped COMP navigate through a challenging regulatory environment. He saw the government’s lifting of a nineyear moratorium on new mining permits and continues to advocate for the lifting of a ban on open pit mining. Under his stewardship COMP became the first mining association in Asia to adopt the To-

wards Sustainable Mining (TSM) program developed by the Mining Association of Canada. TSM is rapidly becoming a global environment, social, and governance standard for mining and has now been adopted by 10 national mining associations, including more recently the Minerals Council of Australia. Brimo, Tan-Climaco, and Philex Mining Corp. president and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Eulalio Austin will remain as ex-officio members of the TSM Advisory Panel to provide industry perspectives during deliberations in the 15-person multistakeholder policy-making body. Austin remains a COMP Trustee, together with Joan Adaci-Cattiling, OceanaGold

Phils., Inc president; Dante Bravo, Platinum Group Metals Corp. president; Antonio Co, Carrascal Nickel Corp. president; Isidro Consunji, Berong Nickel Corp. chairman & CEO; Masahiro Kamiya, Sumitomo Metal Mining Phils. Holdings Corp. chairman and president; Joaquin Lagonera, Sagittarius Mines, Inc. president; Yulo Perez, TVI Resource Dev’t Phils., Inc. president; Adrian Ramos, Atlas Consolidated Mining & Dev’t Corp. president; Horacio Ramos, Pacific Nickel Phils. Inc. president; Bryan Yap, Lepanto Consolidated Mining Co. president and CEO; and Martin Antonio Zamora, president and CEO of Nickel Asia Corp. and subsidiaries.

A10 Tuesday, December 14, 2021 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

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Taming PHL inflation

ark Twain said: “Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn’t.” As the world currently confronts surging inflation, here’s a fact that is hard to believe it’s not fictional. The hyperinflation of Hungary a year after World War II still holds the record for the most extreme monthly inflation rate ever— 41.9 quadrillion percent for July 1946. To fully understand what happened, prices in Hungary were doubling every 15 hours for the whole month.

As Covid lockdowns end and countries start easing restrictions, the sudden spike in demand has thrown the global supply chain into chaos. As a result, businesses and consumers have no choice but to suffer the squeeze of a global supply chain under duress. All over the world, prices surged for everything from gasoline to meat and other products, which put great financial weight on families still struggling with the economic fallout from the pandemic. In the US, consumer prices jumped 6.8 percent in November over the past year, the highest such inflation rate in 39 years. Americans were shocked that the largest cost spikes have been for such necessities as gasoline, food, energy, housing, clothing and cars. These are goods and services that millions of Americans regularly depend upon in their daily lives. Dean Sevin Yeltekin of the William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration said the pandemic has created an environment ripe for inflation: “We are witnessing a massive release of pent-up demand as retailers open their doors and airlines resume normal flight routes once again. It might seem counterintuitive that Americans are emerging from a pandemic with enough money in their pockets to demand more goods and services than producers can supply in the short-term, but there are a few unique factors at play. An extended period of lockdown, without access to restaurants, entertainment venues, and other common spending hotspots, has forced many people to increase their savings, even if they did offset a portion of these savings with the occasional online shopping splurge. According to Bureau of Economic Analysis and Barron’s, Americans have saved an extra $2.4 trillion since the pandemic hit.” In the Philippines, cheaper food items pushed the country’s average inflation rate down in November compared to the previous month, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. The PSA said inflation slowed to 4.2 percent in November 2021 compared to the 4.6 percent posted in October 2021. This was mainly due to the decline in prices of vegetables and fish. However, the rate is higher compared to the 3.3 percent posted in November 2020. It is also above the government’s inflation target of 2 to 4 percent this year (Read, Cheaper food slows inflation in November, in the BusinessMirror, December 7, 2021). “Pork prices continuously went down month-on-month from July to early-October. This means that our policy to temporarily import pork has been effective. However, the uptick in prices in November shows that we need to further ease administrative requirements for the unloading and distribution of stocks to encourage more importation and help bring back pork prices to their pre-African Swine Fever level,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua said. Inflation is often referred to as the “worst tax” because its effects go unnoticed by most people. In reality, it is eroding paychecks. An increase in inflation rate means we have to spend more for the same goods that we used to buy at a lower cost. For some people, this means a lower standard of living. If inflation surges too high, the economy can suffer. The inflation we’re witnessing in the country does not yet justify flat out panic, but it does merit careful scrutiny. With Christmas approaching, authorities need to act to ease the pain of soaring prices amid the pandemic. The big challenge facing our Central Bank officials and economic managers is taming the inflation rate to help create more jobs. If more consumers have more money to buy goods and services, the Philippine economy benefits and grows.

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he phrase “when it rains, it pours” has taken a positive meaning in current developments in the Philippines. Our Covid-19 data are improving significantly while recent economic figures suggest the business reopening in the Philippines is a success. All these numbers point to a healthier nation and a robust economy in the coming months. A healthy and more mobile population means wider participation in the economy that we are trying to open up. And as consumers spend more, we can expect an increasing number of small and medium scale entrepreneurs to re-surface and make their own contribution to the rebounding economy. Increased economic activities in the Philippines are a result of declining Covid-19 cases. We are now the envy perhaps of many nations following our success in containing the Covid-19 infections. Daily cases in the Philippines have significantly fallen to below 400 on the average last week. Active cases dropped to below 12,000 as of last Friday. Metro Manila, once the epicenter of the pandemic, averaged 105 new Covid-19 cases a day from December 1 to 7, 17 percent down from the 126 cases a day from November 24 to 30. All 16 cities and one municipality

are now classified as either very low risk or low risk for infection. The National Capital Region reported a reproduction number of 0.34 in the second week of December, from 0.3 recorded from November 29 to December 5. The reproduction number refers to the number of people who can be infected by one case. A reproduction number that is below 1 indicates that transmission of the virus is slowing down. These declining numbers are very impressive when we compare them to what is happening in Europe, where the daily Covid-19 cases are over 10,000 in many countries. The low Philippine figures have increased people mobility and allowed business establishments to accommodate more people, as opposed to Europe, which ordered the mask mandate back and restricted the movement of their population. Filipinos are luckier in a sense because we can

The coming Panic Chaos John Mangun

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Positive health and economic data point to a strong rebound

olitical Chaos followed by Economic Chaos followed by Panic Chaos. The first two are inevitable. The third depends on how deep and wide the first two were and who is running the circus.

Bad economic policies resulting in bad economic results lead to Political Chaos. The duration and severity of those bad policies determine the extent of the Political Chaos. “Chaos” is not an event. It is a process that led to Brexit and Trump and is still being played out. The UK and the EU still have not figured out how to make Brexit work as evidenced by the recent British/French “Fishing War.” The political upheaval that brought Trump has now given the US the worst Presidential approval rating for Joe Biden since World War 2 (except briefly for Trump) and the lowest approval for Kamala Harris of any modern US vice president. While

Angela Merkel may have been the longest serving German Chancellor, her CDU/CSU conservative bloc decidedly lost the last election to name her successor. Of course, it is easy to dismiss the idea of these cycles as the ramblings of an old man. And we are told it is all Covid’s fault. But, these same cycles occurred about 700 years ago. The political chaos came as the feudal system of the nobility, the vassals who owed allegiance to the nobility, and the peasantry started crumbling. The nobles left the “economy” to the serfs while the lavish parties in the castles continued. When the Great Famine of 1315–1317 hit, the

spend and enjoy the Christmas season more freely. Our positive Covid-19 data have given the economy more room to maneuver and opportunities to create jobs. Some data emerging in December are giving us a clear picture of how the economy is performing in the fourth quarter. Exports in the first 10 months jumped 16.1 percent year-on-year to $62.10 billion, per the data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority last week. Export-oriented companies were able to operate at 100 percent capacity amid the enhanced community quarantine and stricter alert levels. As a result, many of our exporters fulfilled their commitments to the global market despite logistical challenges here and in their foreign market. Philippine imports, on the other hand, are rebounding. Imports in the first 10 months reached $95.31 billion, up nearly 30 percent from $73.48 billion a year earlier. More shipments from abroad will translate into increased factory production and exports in the coming months. Factory output, meanwhile, climbed 24.7 percent in October from a year ago on higher production of fabricated metal products, per separate data from the PSA. The growth in the volume of product index in October this year was slower than the 123.1-percent rise in September, but it marked a reversal of the 25.4-percent drop recorded in October last year.

200-year period of prosperity ended. The European economy turned even worse with the Black Death Pandemic from 1346 to 1353. With some 30 percent of the population dead, there was no one left to grow the crops. Economic chaos. Then came the Panic Chaos when, because of the shortage of workers, the nobility had to actually pay people to be farmers. The military also decided that salaries were good and “lifetime” allegiance went to the highest bidder. Capitalism was born. Our panic cycle is being fueled by inflation. For the US, inflation has no end in sight. Gasoline prices are up 58 percent in 12 months. Food/ energy prices rose at the most rapid pace in 13 years. Price increases are an economic event. Inflation—a general continuing increase in prices—is psychological, reflecting lack of trust in government. We expect vegetables from the North to be more expensive after a typhoon. But if prices do not go down, something systemic is wrong. US inflation is being blamed on high oil prices. Pick any number of reasons why oil is “high.” But oil is actually cheap by historic standards of comparison to other assets. There

These emerging positive data are making our economic managers more optimistic on the prospects of the economy. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin Diokno now expects the full-year economic growth to exceed the target range of 4 percent to 5 percent, with his forecast of the gross domestic product expanding by about 7 percent in the fourth quarter. Governor Diokno has confidently predicted a GDP growth rate of around 7 percent in the fourth quarter with the easing of quarantine restrictions, faster vaccination rollout, improved mobility and the resulting increased economic activities in the three-month period. His optimism is not unfounded. Even the World Bank raised its 2021 growth forecast for the Philippines to 5.3 percent from its previous estimate of 4.3 percent after the 7.1-percent third-quarter expansion that topped market expectations despite the Covid-19 pandemic. The financial institution recognized the economic expansion in the third quarter despite the implementation of several localized lockdowns. I share the optimism of Governor Diokno and the World Bank. The expanding vaccination coverage in the Philippines, better Covid-19 numbers and increased business activities are indications of a firmer economic recovery. For comments, send e-mail to mbv_secretariat@vistaland.com.ph or visit www.mannyvillar. com.ph

is no shortage of oil. But by comparing the ratio of oil prices to other major asset classes over 20 years, oil appears cheap. Relative to broad levels of various asset prices like global stocks, bonds, and commodities, to trade at the historical median of 50 percentile of price ratio, oil should be $120 per barrel. If compared to “expensive assets” such as central bank balance sheets and global “speculative” stocks, oil should trade at $400 per barrel. Oil is “cheap” because of Covidreduced demand. But because of governments doing all they can to reduce oil production to “save” the planet, and as Biden’s catastrophic oil and gas policies fail, prices will rise. This oil inflation will continue as people realize government policies to help keep oil supply and demand in balance—which government can and is supposed to do—have crashed and burned. Trust in government will continue to deteriorate and there will be a Panic Chaos caused by inflation. E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.

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NFTs: Why are people buying jpegs?

Dr. Jess P. Estanislao: A Quintessential Filipino Manny F. Dooc

TELLTALES

Lyca Balita

Onwards

FTs are selling for millions of pesos. This week, an NFT artist earned around P4 billion after hosting a sale. To buy a collectible NFT from Bored Ape Yacht Club, one of the most popular NFT collections right now, you’d need to spend almost P11 million to own the cheapest, which was once priced at less than P20,000. In the gaming world, several players of NFT games such as Axie Infinity are earning six figures a month. The NFT industry is undoubtedly very profitable. What does it all mean and why are people buying them? NFT stands for Non-Fungible Token. Put very simply, an NFT is a digital token that can be owned exclusively by one person, and anyone can check whether that token is an original and whether one actually owns that NFT. The token can represent a digital asset like a photo, video, or an item in an online game. Essentially, exclusive ownership over digital things. If you own an NFT, you exclusively own that digital asset. For instance, Bored Ape Yacht Club NFTs are represented by digital photos of illustrated apes. It’s initially difficult to comprehend why people would “buy digital photos [or jpegs]” when anyone can right click and save photos for free, but three factors seem to appeal to those who can afford these NFTs: utility, community, and exclusive ownership. First, utility. As for “photo NFTs,” many collectibles come with realworld utility. Some NFTs entitle owners to exclusive events, international flights, physical items like clothes, and for one project, even access to any Disneyland worldwide. A recently launched collection called Alpha Girl Club, supported by Pia Wurtzbach, allows its NFT holders to have free access to a mental health app, psychotherapists, a chance to win a flight to Japan, and even access to exclusive events like cooking with a Michelin-starred chef. It’s sort of like a membership card to an exclusive community that rewards its holders, so what was once worth P20,000 can be worth millions of pesos in a span of weeks or months. Most “photo NFT” collections that succeed for a long time have this kind of real-world utility that appeals to buyers. Furthermore, other than “photo NFTs” the technology behind NFTs has led to the creation of NFT games like Axie Infinity, which is currently the most popular play-to-earn NFT game globally. Axie Infinity allows players to earn cryptocurrency by playing, and the cryptocurrency they earn can easily be converted to Philippine peso. The digital characters used in this game are NFTs. Thus, players can buy stronger NFT axies for better chances of winning and therefore, higher chances of earning more. Second, NFTs appeal because they create communities. NFTs aren’t usually sold alone. They tend to be part of collections, wherein owners of NFTs from a collection become members of an exclusive community of fellow owners. For instance, the Bored Ape Yacht Club collection has holders such as Stephen Curry, Jimmy Fallon, and Mark Cuban, so owning an ape from that collection means the ability to network with these personalities. Being a part of exclusive communities means access to good networks, helpful friends, and even a bigger following. Lastly, exclusive ownership. NFTs per se, being digital, don’t really have physical-world use unless the project grants utility. But some NFTs are really just collectibles, and collectibles, such as physical paintings or Funko pops, aren’t meant to be useful. They’re meant to be originals, and most of the time, they are status symbols or just something we enjoy owning. Just look at the physical art collection industry. Originals are

certainly more valuable than copies, and NFTs have allowed the creation of original and limited digital assets. The NFT world has created huge potential for artists to earn. Many photographers, painters, and digital artists sell NFTs of their photos for six to seven figures in a few months. NFTs are slowly becoming mainstream, with brands such as Pepsi, Adidas, and even Miss Universe already making their own. We can earn from NFTs by buying them low and selling them high, also called “flipping” NFTs. There are good and bad sides to this flipping culture because it can often end up like a game of hot potato when the projects aren’t made to last, leaving some at a loss with expensive NFTs worth nothing anymore. But NFTs have huge potential when used ethically—good utility, community, and support for artists, without taking advantage of anyone. It’s a technology that may seem intimidating from afar, but the best way to learn is by actually starting. NFTs come with a high risk, as in all profitable endeavors, and there are certainly many scammers in the space, the same way there are many in industries in the physical world, so it’s essential to do diligent research and to find someone to help you out to enter this industry. FOMO or ‘Fear of Missing Out’ is rampant in the space, so researching projects and the teams behind them is key before shelling out money. Maybe ask: is this project actually good or is it overhyped and susceptible to a pump and dump? NFTs live on different blockchains, so this is one essential consideration, too. The most popular NFTs are based on Ethereum, which is expensive and currently has earthfriendly issues. But there are other blockchains such as Avalanche, which claim to be cheaper and better for the environment, so they are also something to consider. Concededly, I initially had my doubts about the industry primarily because of the potentially harmful effects of short-term flipping and pump and dumps, and the environmental damage of some blockchains. But I researched more and learned about the other side: there are projects meant for the long run which build helpful communities and genuinely and financially support causes such as mental health and education, and there are moves to improve the technologies to make them significantly better for the environment. Plus, I’ve seen the lives of good people being changed because of the good side of the industry. The cool thing about this technology is that users decide which practices, projects, and blockchains succeed. If more good people come in, the culture changes for the better. The technology becomes a force for good. Each purchase is really a vote for what kind of future NFTs will have. The NFT industry is at its early stages, so there are inevitably more changes, improvements, and debates to come, but whether or not we intend to join the industry, learning the technology and the cultures behind it will allow us to understand the market, opportunities, and future of the digital world. Nothing beats doing our own research and deciding independently based on what we learn. For feedback, send an e-mail to lyca.balita@ gmail.com

Tuesday, December 14, 2021 A11

oday is the birthday of Jesus P. Estanislao—the foremost advocate of good corporate governance in our country. Jess, as his colleagues fondly call him, graduated summa cum laude from the University of San Carlos in his native Cebu with a degree in Philosophy. He earned his Master’s Degree in Economics at the Fordham University in New York and his Ph.D. in Economics at the Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts where he was also a Teaching Fellow and Research Fellow. A scholar and a revered member of the academe, he was honored with several doctoral degrees from various leading institutions. A trained economist, he has published several books, which are regarded by experts as authority on the subject of economics, finance and governance. As early as 1997 while he was the President of the University of Asia and the Pacific, he delivered a lecture in Singapore where he described the Philippines as an emerging Asian tiger. He affirmed that the macroeconomic fundamentals of the country bear out the expectation that the Philippines is finally out of the woods. He cited the numbers that “those statistics that are supposed to come down—such as inflation—have come down; those that are supposed to go up—such as real GDP growth—have gone up; those that are supposed to stay generally where they are—such as the exchange rate— have remained surprisingly stable and strong; and those that are supposed to stay within bounds—such as the fiscal deficit and the current account deficit as a ratio of GDP—have stayed within conventional norms of prudence.” He astutely observed at that time that the excellent economic performance was only recorded during the past five years when relative

calm was restored after a series of disruptive coup attempts rocked our fragile democracy. Reflecting on the Edsa revolution, he assailed that “wrong policies, not just wrong personalities” had caused our economic ills for decades under the Marcos regime. And that we needed to purge the dictator and his cronies, even by way of radical political reforms, if only to rebuild and redirect our economy. The President Cory years addressed the political problems which required strengthening the democratic institutions. In the process, President Cory’s administration shed blood and tears but it weathered several attempts of the putschists and military adventurers to oust President Cory from office. The succeeding Ramos administration enjoyed peace and quiet and President Fidel V. Ramos was able to focus on the serious business of building our economy. Vital reforms were introduced to dismantle monopolies, discourage crony capitalism, and reject trade protectionism. Transparency, fair market competition and a culture of good corporate governance became the new paradigm. Again, sounding prophetic, Jess worried that the gains made under the Cory and Ramos administrations would be imperiled if the people failed to elect their successors who will safeguard and pursue the

Now long retired from government service, Jess champions governance in the Philippines. His mission is to instill a governance culture in both public and private institutions to promote integrity, weed out corruption and promote governance reforms.

democratic and governance reforms introduced by their predecessors. During the critical years after President Cory was installed into power, Jess played prominent roles in the government. Initially, Jess joined President Cory as the Chairman of the Development Bank of the Philippines, which he successfully rehabilitated. After completing his work at the DBP, he then served as the Socio-economic Planning Secretary and concurrently as Director General of the National Economic and Development Authority from 1989 to 1990. Later on, Jess was tapped by President Cory as Secretary of Finance from 1990-1992 when Secretary Vicente Jayme left the Cabinet. There was no question that as the finance chief, Jess was the head of President Cory’s economic team. He presided over the recovery efforts and reform program of the new government, severely reeling from the economic misrule of the preceding administration. It is not stretching the fact if I say that Jess helped lay the foundation for our economic recovery. And we are fortunate that an honest, pious and incorruptible man was at the helm of our economic and finance team during that crucial period in our history. When President Cory’s term ended, President Ramos did not totally let him go. Jess was designated as the Philippine representative to the Apec Eminent Persons Group. W hen the Philippines hosted the Apec Summit in 1996, Jess served as its adviser. And again, when the Asean Eminent Persons Group on Vision 2020 was convened, Jess ably represented our country. For his distin-

Clarifying VAT zero-rated transactions Atty. Rodel C. Unciano

Tax Law for Business

S you may be aware, Republic Act 10963 or the TRAIN Law mandates that certain transactions under subsections 3, 4 and 5 of Section 106(A)2(a) and Sections 108(B)1 and 108(B)5 of the Tax Code shall be removed from the coverage of Value Added Tax zero-rating upon the satisfaction of two conditions, namely: 1) The successful implementation of an enhanced VAT refund system that grants and pays refunds of creditable input tax within 90 days from the filing of the VAT refund application with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR); and 2) All pending VAT refund claims as of December 31, 2017 shall have been refunded. As a refresher, the transactions that will no longer be accorded VAT zero-rating upon the satisfaction of the two above conditions are as follows: 1) Sale of raw materials or packaging materials to a nonresident buyer for delivery to a resident local export-oriented enterprise to be used in manufacturing, processing, packing or repacking in the Philippines of the said buyer’s goods and paid for in acceptable foreign currency and accounted for in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP); 2) Sale of raw materials or packaging materials to export-oriented enterprise whose export sales exceed 70 percent of total annual production; 3) Those considered export sales under Executive Order 226, otherwise known as the Omnibus Investment Code of 1987, and other special laws; 4) Processing, manufacturing or repacking goods for other persons doing business outside the Philip-

pines which goods are subsequently exported, where the services are paid for in acceptable foreign currency and accounted for in accordance with the rules and regulations of the BSP; and 5) Services performed by subcontractors and/or contractors in processing, converting, or manufacturing goods for an enterprise whose export sales exceed 70 percent of total annual production. According to Revenue Regulations (RR) 9-2021, which was issued in June, the two conditions have already been satisfied. Thus, following RR 9-2021, the above transactions shall already be subject to the 12 percent VAT. Subsequently, however, RR 15-2021 deferred the implementation of RR 9-2021. These two issuances gave confusions on the VAT treatment of the covered transactions. Recently, the BIR issued RR 212021, clarifying transactions that are considered VAT zero-rated. Thus, pursuant to RR 21-2021, the following sales of goods or properties by VAT-registered persons shall be

So, as it now stands, these are the transactions that are currently within the coverage of VAT zero-rating, subject to compliance and satisfaction of certain requirements as provided under RR 21-2021. Transactions that are not covered by any of the items enumerated above shall not be entitled to VAT zero-rating.

subject to zero-percent VAT. a) Export sales. This includes sale of goods, supplies, equipment, and fuel to persons engaged in international shipping or international transport operations, provided that the goods, supplies, equipment and fuel shall be used exclusively for international shipping or air transport operations; b) Sales to persons or entities whose exemption from direct and indirect taxes under special laws or international agreements to which the Philippines is a signatory effectively subjects such sales to zero rate; c) Sales of raw materials, inventories, supplies, equipment, packaging materials, and goods to a registered export enterprise, to be used directly and exclusively in its registered project or activity. On the other hand, the following services performed in the Philippines by a VAT-registered person shall be subject to zero-percent VAT: 1. Services other than processing, manufacturing or repacking of goods rendered to a person engaged in business conducted outside the Philippines, or to a non-resident person not engaged in business who is outside the Philippines when the services are performed; 2. Services rendered to persons or entities whose exemption from direct and indirect taxes under special or international agreements to

guished services to our country, Jess was awarded the Philippine Legion of Honor, one of the highest decorations given to both civilians and members of the military established in 1947 by then President Manuel A. Roxas. In 2009, the Management Association of the Philippines conferred on him the “Management Man of the Year” for his superb management skills. Now long retired from government service, Jess champions governance in the Philippines. His mission is to instill a governance culture in both public and private institutions to promote integrity, weed out corruption and promote governance reforms. To achieve these lofty objectives, he founded the Institute of Corporate Directors, which focuses on corporate governance and the Institute for Solidarity in Asia, which aims to develop national governance. As the acknowledged leader on governance issues, Jess is the chairman of the President’s Governance Advisory Council. No man is best suited for this role than Jess. He is a silent worker who delivers the goods. He abhors the “noise and blabber” of those who are full of pretensions but lack the substance and dedication to pursue the tasks. Good governance is a difficult challenge confronting leaders in government and business. By itself, it is not the panacea for all our ills. Quoting Jess, he himself admitted that “governance does not provide the silver bullet by which we can hit and smash all the long term, systemic and closely related problems that we have been facing as a nation. But the discipline it imposes and the good practice it demands provide a roadmap that leads to the delivery of transformative outcomes, which address effectively and minimize the systemic problems that have been bugging us down.” But with Jess leading the initiative, I have little doubt that we can achieve the transformation that we dream of. Happy birthday, Jess.

which the Philippines is a signatory, effectively subjects the supply of such services to zero-percent rate; 3. Sale of services, including provision of basic infrastructure, utilities, and maintenance, repair and overhaul of equipment, to a registered export enterprise, to be used directly and exclusively in its registered project or activity; 4. Services rendered to persons engaged in international shipping or air transport operations, including leases of property, provided that these services shall be exclusively for international shipping or air transport operations; 5. Transport of passengers and cargo by domestic air or sea vessels from the Philippines to a foreign country; and 6. Sale of power or fuel generated through renewable sources of energy such as, but not limited to biomass, solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal and steam, ocean energy, and other emerging sources using technologies such as fuel cells and hydrogen fuels. So, as it now stands, these are the transactions that are currently within the coverage of VAT zero-rating, subject to compliance and satisfaction of certain requirements as provided under RR 21-2021. Transactions that are not covered by any of the items enumerated above shall not be entitled to VAT zero-rating. The author is a partner of Du-Baladad and Associates Law Offices (BDB Law), a member-firm of WTS Global. The article is for general information only and is not intended, nor should be construed as a substitute for tax, legal or financial advice on any specific matter. Applicability of this article to any actual or particular tax or legal issue should be supported therefore by a professional study or advice. If you have any comments or questions concerning the article, you may e-mail the author at rodel.unciano@ bdblaw.com.ph or call 8403-2001 local 140.

A12 Tuesday, December 14, 2021

BIDEN INVITES DUTERTE TO U.S., ASEAN SUMMIT NEXT MONTH

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

HE US State Department has extended the invitation for President Duterte to attend the “special” US-Asean Summit in Washington DC next month. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the preparation for the Special US-Asean Summit has been discussed during the meeting between Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and the US Undersecretary of State for political affairs Victoria Nuland. The two met at the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) Ministerial Meetings in Liverpool, United Kingdom over the weekend. The DFA did not elaborate on the specifics of the meeting. A few weeks ago, news reports from Hanoi quoted sources saying the US is proposing for the summit to be an “in-person” meeting among the heads of states of Asean and President Joe Biden sometime in the third week of January 2022. The proposed US-Asean Summit will propel the pivot of the US foreign policy back Asia under the “Indo-Pacific Economic Framework” which will start next year US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken is in Liverpool,

UK this week to promote the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework with his counterparts in Asean during the G7 meeting. This is the first time Asean ministers were invited to the G7 meetings. Biden is also scheduled to fly to Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand later this week. Locsin, meanwhile, congratulated the US for hosting of the Democracy Summit. Duterte has not yet visited the US since he became President. In his previous pronouncements, Duterte openly ranted about US imperialism and threatened to abandon its treaty alliance with the US. However, recently, relations have improved, with President Duterte reviving the Visiting Forces Agreement and participating during the virtual Democracy Summit hosted by Biden. Locsin also thanked the US for the 20-million donated doses of Pfizer, Moderna and Janssen vaccines that the Philippines received from the United States, so far, through the Covax Facility. “Secretar y Locsin also sought the United States’ continued support for the PH as it administers booster shots for its population, as well as in the Philippines’ efforts to build its capacity for local vaccine development, manufacturing and distribution,” the DFA said in a statement.

Fuel marking nets govt over ₧330B in 25 months–DOF

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE national government has collected P330.286 billion in duties and taxes through the fuel-marking program it began more than 25 months ago. The latest data released by t he D e p a r t me nt of Fi n a nce ( D OF ) s ho w e d t h i s co v e re d 33. 539 bi l l ion l iters of f uel marked between December 10

and September 2019. As of December 9 this year, the Bureau of Customs raked in P300.47 billion while the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s tax haul hit

P29.81 billion. Petron Corp. still cornered the lion’s share of volume of marked fuel at 23.79 percent or 7.979 billion liters of the total. Trailing Petron in the list of 26 participating companies are: Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. with 6.16 billion liters; Unioil Pe t r o l e u m P h i l i p p i n e s I n c . (3.38 billion liters); Insular Oil Corp. (2.76 billion liters); and, Seaoil Philippines Inc. (2.63 billion liters). By fuel type, diesel comprised the biggest chunk of marked fuel at 60.92 percent or 20.43 billion liters. This was followed by gasoline at 38.55 percent or 12.93 billion liters) and kerosene (0.58 percent or 178.69 million liters). Most of the marked fuel was

in Luzon, with 73.46 percent or 24.637 billion liters of the total. Next to Luzon is Mindanao with 21.05 percent or 7.06 billion liters and Visayas with 5.49 percent or 1.84 billion liters. T he fuel-mark ing program was launched with the aim of halting illegal importation, manufacturing and other fraudulent activities relating to the use and sale of petroleum products in the country. Fuel marking makes use of a unique chemical marker that can be embedded at a molecular level in petroleum products— gasoline, diesel and kerosene— thereby enabling authorities to test, identify and distinguish petroleum products with paid excise taxes.

‘Livestock-related units need revamp’ to ensure lower-cost meat products By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

@jearcalas

HE gover nment mu st strengthen and harmonize its various livestock-related units to ensure that programs are integrated with the goal of producing lower-cost meat products, experts said. Monetary Board member V. Bruce J. Tolentino stressed the need to “reorganize” the government’s livestock-related units to ensure that the necessary attention is given to the concerned industries. Tolent i no a l so noted t h at there is no specific agency or unit focusing on the countr y’s corn industr y, a vital sector in ensuring the growth of livestock production. “It has grown up to a kind of haphazard fashion: you have BAI [Bureau of A nimal Industr y], NMIS [National Meat Inspection Service], livestock development council, etc. It is so cluttered that there is no agency focusing on corn,” he told the BusinessMirror.  “We need to reorganize all the livestock agencies into a coordinated set,” he added. Tolentino proposed that the government have just one unit focusing on productivity and technology, and another unit dealing with trade and policies-related matters. “You really need a unit in the Department of Agriculture (DA) that focuses almost purely on corn technology as well. It could be attached to the Bureau of Plant Industry, which is okay, or within the BAI that focuses on livestock feeds,” he said. At present the DA has a corn

prog ram t hat oversees t he implementation of cor n pro duction-related projects of the government. Industry players, particularly the Philippine Maize Federation Inc. (PhilMaize), have been pushing for the creation of the Philippine Corn Development Authority to oversee the development of the corn sector since they have been “orphaned ” following the deregulation of the state-run National Food Authority (NFA). “We agree with Tolentino’s proposal. The corn industry has been orphaned after the NFA was deregulated. There is no entity supporting the corn sector. What we have right now is just a banner program that is lumped in with the livestock program,” Danilo V. Fausto, president of the Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc., told the BusinessMirror. Fausto proposed that the President issue an executive order (EO) to create a unit that would oversee and consolidate all the livestockrelated units and programs of the government. “This could be done as an interim measure while waiting for passage of a law that would create the corn authority or a bureau focusing on livestock,” he said. Fausto arg ued that the devastation caused by the A fr ican sw ine fever (A SF) to the hog industr y is a wake-up ca ll for the gover nment to create a bureau that will focus on livestock development. “We agree that the bureaus must be specialized. One focuses on the corn industry, one on livestock and another on trade measures,” he added.

THE North Triangle Common Station, also called Grand Central Station, a rapid transit terminal and transport hub that will connect LRT Line 1, MRT Line 3 and MRT Line 7, is seen under construction in Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City. The Department of Transportation wants to close the North Avenue portion of Edsa to vehicular traffic for at least 30 days to facilitate its completion. NONIE REYES

Senate approves 2021 budget extension bill

HE Senate passed on third and final reading Monday a remedial legislation extending the validity of the 2021 General Appropriations Act until a new national budget is passed. Voting 22 in favor with no negative vote, senators approved the 2021 budget extension bill in hybrid plenary session adopting House Bill 10373, as amended by the Senate, to be known as An Act Extending the Availability of the 2021 Appropriations to December 31, 2022. Sponsored by Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara, chairman of the Senate

Committee on Finance, the remedial legislation extends the current budget until a new appropriations bill is enacted into law next year. Angara, acknowledging timely approval of the remedial measure, said this is “crucial in the government’s recovery efforts, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic is expected to persist throughout next year in light of the looming threat of the Omicron variant.” Angara added: “The approval of the measure will allow the government to provide more social services and implement more projects for the benefit of more of our countrymen,

BOC auction... This was followed by Lot 1 or the 2001 Porsche Boxster with a f loor price of P1.798 million; L ot 5 or t he 2011 Mercedes E220, P1.492 m i l l ion; L ot 4 or the 2001 Mercedes SLK55, P1.324 million; and Lot 2 or the

Continued from A1

2001 Mercedes SLK350 worth P1.248 million. After declaring the bidding as failed for each of the cars, the auction committee said they will prepare for the second bidding of the same vehicles which will commence

and to a certain extent, provide some stimulus for jumpstarting our economic recovery.” Angara assured the public that the remedial legislation extending the 2021 budget’s validity until a new annual appropriation law is enacted next year will benefit 2.5 million indigent patients of government assistance, given a significant portion of the budget under Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients (MAIP) has yet to be obligated. Moreover, the senator listed other implications of the extension: ■ With the Omicron variant threatening to reach the country,

the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) gets enough leeway to use unobligated appropriations to hire up to 8,000 more contact tracers for one month; ■ The government may help boost economic recovery by ramping up its spending, particularly in infrastructure, as the private sector reels from the effects of the pandemic. ■ The government may help boost the country’s economic recovery by ramping up its spending, particularly in infrastructure, as the private sector reels from the effects of the pandemic. Butch Fernandez

five days after the committee has made a new announcement. T he Inter -A genc y Auc t ion Committee is composed of representatives from the BOC, the BTr and the Land Bank of the Philippines. This was created through a Memorandum of Agreement among the agencies signed in December 2021. The BOC earlier said this will

help ensure transparency of the process and promote competition through broad dissemination of auction information. Through the added network of the BTr and Landbank, the notice of auction and other key information on the vehicles will be made available to the wider public, thus enhancing the competitive nature of the process. Cai U. Ordinario

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

8 STONE BUSINESS OUTSOURCING OPC 5-10/f Tower 1, Pitx Kennedy Road, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

HTUN AUNG KYAW Customer Service Representative Mandarin Speaking 1.

Brief Job Description: Build sustainable relationship of trust through open and interactive communication in Mandarin speaking

CHEN, SHUDUO Marketing Staff Mandarin Speaking 2.

Brief Job Description: Monitor, review and report on all Marketing activity and result

OU, GUOQIANG Marketing Staff Mandarin Speaking 3.

Brief Job Description: Monitor, review and report on all Marketing activity and result

PANG, YUWEN Marketing Staff Mandarin Speaking 4.

Brief Job Description: Monitor, review and report on all Marketing activity and result

Basic Qualification: Knows how to recommend potential products or services to management by collecting customer information and analyzing customer needs. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Analyze the productivity of the Marketing plans and projects, recommend to Senior Management Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Analyze the productivity of the Marketing plans and projects, recommend to Senior Management Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Analyze the productivity of the Marketing plans and projects, recommend to Senior Management Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ABSOLUTE STAFF SOLUTIONS CORP. Unit 1710 Entrata Condo Tower 1, Fcc, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa

JIN, JINGZHU Chinese Client Relation Specialist 5.

Brief Job Description: Good in solving problem and resolving complaints with full understanding of our administrative procedures. He is in charge in developing business growth and dealing with the difficult customer issues.

LIM, HYEONJUN Korean Client Relation Specialist 6.

YOON, PAUL Korean Client Relation Specialist 7.

11.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience, experience leading a team and managing people and ability to speak and write in English and Chinese fluently.

12.

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience, experience leading a team and managing people and ability to speak and write in english and korean fluently. Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

13.

SHARMA, RAJESH Operations Account Lead 8.

Brief Job Description: Own client relationship for operations contract which covers one or more of the OPS offering. Manage client relationship, profit and loss management of the account, quality and risk with services provided to the client. Strategic positioning for growth and people management of the account.

RAMANI, ARVIND Service Delivery Operations Executive (SDO Executive) 9.

Brief Job Description: Delivering flawless delivery through operational discipline and proactive actions. unlock growth opportunities to scale our operations in network service operations and take it the next lever; drive the innovation and transformation agenda by picking

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: The right opportunities where large transformation can be applied keeping in mind the strategic and visionary business outcomes. 10-20 years’ experience in senior managerial role; with bpo contact center experience. College graduate or undergraduate with relevant experience and trainings. Experienced in talent management and succession planning. Extensive knowledge of instructional design theory and learning principles. Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

ADENIYI, SOUROU WILFRIED Tech Writing & Translation Sr Analyst

10.

Brief Job Description: These professional speak the language of technology. They provide translation support services across technology programs and projects using strong verbal and written communication skills. They translate critical documents and materials to ensure our global business can run without issue. They contribute to overall cultural awareness and diversity through their understanding of language.

Basic Qualification: 1-2 years’ experience in an analytical or customer service role. Strong, effective written and oral English/language communication skills. Impeccable attention to detail ability to multitask under pressure in an everchanging environment professional knowledge of android os, ios and mac os desired. Ability to keep up to date in a very fast paced environment, staying on top of policy, procedure and workflow changes and evolutions Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ALTERA KARNA BUSINESS CORP. Unit No. Unit A & O Flr., No.5/f Eighty One Bldg. Newport Bldg. St., Barangay 183, Pasay City

Brief Job Description: Provide suggestions to clients.

ZHOU, LI E-commerce Consultant (Chinese Speaking) Brief Job Description: Provide suggestions to clients.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications / can multitask and keen to details / able to speak Chinese and English fluently.

WEI, ZEYOU Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

DOAN THI KIM YEN Telesales Marketing Officer- Vietnamese Speaking 14.

Brief Job Description: Pro-active selling of products to both existing and new customer in order to achieve and exceed weekly, monthly and annual sales revenue targets and other performance target

No.

23.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications / can multitask and keen to details / able to speak Chinese and English fluently. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

15.

Brief Job Description: Ensures the agreed availability and reliability of the designated Equipment and Fleet in the most efficient, safe and environmental way

GU, XIANG Marketing And Sales Agent 24.

16.

Brief Job Description: Diligently and faithfully serve the company by performing the job duties and responsibilities that are reasonably necessary and incidental to the same

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

GUO, HAO Marketing And Sales Agent 25.

Basic Qualification: Excellent communication and presentation skills

17.

Brief Job Description: Overall responsibility for the group of employees and for the clients and portfolios assigned to them and is accountable for the department’s financial performance, which includes revenue, client competitive rankings, and profitability

TANG, ZHENLONG Marketing And Sales Agent 26.

XU, JING Marketing And Sales Agent 27.

Brief Job Description: Provides technical support in Dutch

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 CHINA HARBOUR ENGINEERING COMPANY 5/f Rm 501 Ramon Magsaysay Center, 1680 Roxas Blvd., 076, Bgy. 699, Malate, City Of Manila

ZHANG, YI Mandarin Operations Supervisor 19.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Operations Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Operations Supervisor , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

20.

Brief Job Description: Expand communication skills and negotiation skills within company, customers and suppliers

28.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

21.

Brief Job Description: Investigate user problems and prepare reports for developers. SU, TING Mandarin Speaking Computer Support Specialist

22.

Brief Job Description: Investigate user problems and prepare reports for developers.

EASTERN GOLD CORPORATION 503, Nueva St, , Binondo, City Of Manila

Basic Qualification: Excellent speaking, writing and reading in Chinese Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas.

ZHOU, HUASHENG Marketing And Sales Agent 29.

Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas and researches to help develop marketing strategies; Can help to detail, design and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas.

ERICSSON TELECOMMUNICATIONS, INC. 22/f Two/neo Bldg., 3rd Ave. Cor. 28th St. Crescent Parkwest, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

KARIM, MD MONJURUL Customer Project Manager 30.

Brief Job Description: Lead assigned customer projects securing that project goals are met, customer’s expectations are fulfilled and that the customer relation is handled in the best possible way within the scope of the contract.

Basic Qualification: Degree in telecommunications engineering, electrical engineering or related major. At least 12 to 15 years experience in telecommunications industry. Strong knowledge of managing project lifecycle. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

FABROS LTD. INCORPORATED (YOYOMARKET) 2nd Floor South Global Forum, 7th Avenue Corner Federacion Drive, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig REN, JIALONG Mandarin Admin Officer 31.

Brief Job Description: Develop, implement and review operational policies and procedures. SHI, YANBEI Mandarin Store Manager

32.

Brief Job Description: Motivate the sales team to meet sales objectives by training and mentoring staff

Basic Qualification: Excellent in speaking, reading and writing in Mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Excellent in speaking, reading and writing in Mandarin Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

FIBERHOME PHILS., INC. U-19d 19/f Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati DENG, XUAN Account Manager 33.

Basic Qualification: Excellent speaking, writing and reading in Chinese Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Japanese nationality

DIGIVIRTUAL TECH CORPORATION 7/f Ba Lepanto Bldg., 8747 Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati QIN, JIWEI Mandarin Speaking Computer Support Specialist

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas.

ZHAO, YU Marketing And Sales Agent

DENSO PHILIPPINES CORPORATION 9/f & 10/f Filinvest One, Northgate Cyberzone, Filinvest City Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa ONO, MASUTERU Manager-design Engineering Department

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

CGI (PHILIPPINES) INC. 2/f One World Square, Mckinley Hill, Pinagsama, City Of Taguig

18.

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

Basic Qualification: Proficient in written and verbal communication in English language and excellent knowledge of Dutch. Proficient computer and technical skills

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Degree in business management or a masters in business administration

Basic Qualification: Minimum 5 years Off Shore Operations Management experience and proven experience in strategic planning, financial analysis, forecasting and capacity planning, operational performance management and strong knowledge of laws and regulations relating to the employment of personnel

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

BLOK, ANNA CHRISTINA Multilingual Service Desk Manager

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Extensive technical and operational experience of at least 20 years in maritime industry in an international Dredging and Land reclamation project environment

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

CBE COMPANIES PH, INC. 16/f W Fifth Avenue 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

MAYER, TYLER WESLEY Director, International Operations

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

BYD PHILIPPINES CORP. 2407 24/f Bgc Corporate Center, 30th Cor. 11th Ave. Bgc, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig ZHAO, TIANYAN General Manager / Treasurer

Brief Job Description: Researches and develops various marketing strategies for products and services and implements marketing plans and works to meet sales quotas.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BOSKALIS PHILIPPINES INC. Unit 3701, 3801 The Orient Square, F. Ortigas Jr. Road, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

KAMSTEEG, ARIE WILLEM Package Manager Fleet And Equipment

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

DING, BAOMIN Marketing And Sales Agent

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

APRICUS TECHNOLOGY INC. 8/f Aguirre Building, 107 Aguirre St. Legaspi Village, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

ACCENTURE, INC. 7f, Robinsons Cybergate Tower 1, Pioneer St, City Of Mandaluyong Basic Qualification: Complexity (degree of difficulty of an assignment or the level of problem solving assessment and resolution required. As measured by degree of problem-solving, strategic vs routine focus and stakeholders interactions.

YUN, JIANFEI E-commerce Consultant (Chinese Speaking)

A13

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

ANOC99 CORPORATION 5/f To 10/f Ayala Malls Manila Bay Building D., Macapagal Blvd. Cor. Aseana Street, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing and growing key customers of Fiberhome in the Philippines HUANG, NANCHUAN Account Manager

34.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing and growing key customers of Fiberhome in the Philippines

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

A14

BusinessMirror

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION LI, MENGDI Account Manager

35.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing and growing key customers of Fiberhome in the Philippines LU, YONG Account Manager

36.

Brief Job Description: The Account Manager will be strategist and leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals WANG, QIUCHENG Account Manager

37.

38.

Brief Job Description: Recommend optimal transportation modes, routing, equipment or frequency JIANG, DIKANG Marketing Manager

39.

Brief Job Description: The Marketing Manager will be strategist and leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals HE, SHOUYI Project Manager

40.

Brief Job Description: The Project Manager will be strategist and leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals LI, QIAN Project Manager

41.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing technical issues on materials, EQUIPMENT being used on projects MA, CHAO Project Manager

42.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing technical issues on materials, equipment being used MA, MINGYANG Project Manager

43.

44.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing technical issues on materials being used on projects QIAN, WEIQI Project Manager

45.

46.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing technical issues on materials, equipment being used XIONG, YIXIANG Project Manager

47.

48.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing technical issues on materials being used ZHANG, CHUNYU Project Manager

49.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing technical issues on materials, equipment being used on projects XU, LEI Technical Manager

50.

Brief Job Description: Delegate technical responsibilities and monitor the progress of project XU, TAO Technical Manager

51.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

Brief Job Description: Delegate technical responsibilities and monitor the progress of projects

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written.

No.

54.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

52.

Brief Job Description: Delivery of administrative transactional processes including human resource servicing, travel operations, finance, vendor

53.

Brief Job Description: Responsible in answering customer questions about product and services of the company

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in English, Mandarin and other multilingual language

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

55.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Account Manager. Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English languages both verbal and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Marketing Manager. Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills

LAWRENCE CHARLES LOPEZ Assistant Vice President - Risk Brief Job Description: To lead a team of risk professionals and to educate the management team in risk.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor Degree graduate, obtain strong analytical skills. background experience in banks on the risk/fraud fields.

56.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of incoming phone calls

FU, DONG Mandarin Travel Consultant 57.

Brief Job Description: Book tickets, reserve accommodations, organize travel rental transportations. ZHU, LIGUO Mandarin Travel Consultant

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written.

ZHU, ZHIKANG Multilingual Customer Service Representative 60.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Project Manager. Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills

WANG, YIHUI Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative 61.

62.

LAM LE LE It Support Specialist

63.

Brief Job Description: Manages the talent acquisition process

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Project Manager will be strategist and a leader abe to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

CHEN, YONGSHENG Mandarin Customer Support Representative 64.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

LIU, XIAOJUN Mandarin Customer Support Representative 65.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

WU, MEI-RU Mandarin Customer Support Representative 66.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written

ZHAO, SHAOLUO Mandarin Customer Support Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 yrs. Supervisory/managerial experience in logistics or operations/ multilingual Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in English, Mandarin and other multilingual language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in English, Chinese and other multilingual language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

75.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in Mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

67.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

TAN, XIAOLONG Mandarin Customer Support Specialist 68.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience.

76.

WEI, CHUANG Chinese Accountant 77.

69.

Brief Job Description: The Chinese customer service representative will provide information to the company’s Chinese clients or customers in response to inquiries.

Brief Job Description: Provides financial information to management by researching and analyzing accounting data; preparing reports. Summarizes current financial status by collecting information; preparing balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and other reports. Recommends financial actions by analyzing accounting options. LIU, TING General Manager

78.

Brief Job Description: Work with different marketing departments to generate new ideas and strategies. Create communication and marketing strategies for new products, launches, events, and promotions. Respond to communicationrelated issues in a timely manner. Motivating employees, planning events and promotions, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

RHANI Indonesian/Bahasa Customer Service Representative 79.

Brief Job Description: Gather information, researches and resolves inquires and log customer calls LI, XIONGJIE Mandarin Speaking It Specialist

80.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing and analyzing the effectiveness of software of the company

HE, MIN Cebu Branch Manager 81.

Brief Job Description: You will provide leadership + direction to your teams at a branch level with a focus on customer.

TSHERING, ALEXANDER PENJOR Chief Growth Officer 82.

Brief Job Description: Ensure all marketing activities are of value and oversee product development

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak and Read Cantonese, Mandarin and Fukein Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak and Read Cantonese, Mandarin and Fukein Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak and Read Cantonese, Mandarin and Fukein Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak and Read Cantonese, Mandarin and Fukein Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak and Read Cantonese, Mandarin and Fukein Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field. Understanding of mathematics and accounting and financial processes. Ethical behavior. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Good knowledge of different business functions. Strong leadership qualities & good interpersonal skills. Highly organized & strong work ethics. Meticulous attention to detail & proactive nature. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: College Graduate. At least 6 months to 1 yr related experience Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficiency in Mandarin and any other multilingual language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Depending on local structure, this role may take direct responsibly for the customer care team in the same location. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

Basic Qualification: 15 years of solid marketing experience and 10 years senior leadership role Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

MAKATISOFT INC. Unit-t 2406 To 2408 Sm Aura Tower 26th St. Cor. Mckinley Parkway, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

BLEIMUTH, THOMAS Chief Asset Management Officer 83.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for the overall direction & strategy of fund of the company

Basic Qualification: Must have several years of experience in trading financial markets such as stock market, FOREX, cryptocurrencies, etc. Several years of experience in building, developing and managing high performance teams/departments Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

MC CONNELL DOWELL PHILS., INC. Level 4 Nol Tower, Commerce Ave., Mbp, City Of Muntinlupa

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: A Chinese and fluent in Chinese writing and speaking language

Basic Qualification: Can Speak and Read Cantonese, Mandarin and Fukein Language

KUMU INC. 6th Floor, Robinsons Cybergate 3, Pioneer, Barangka Ilaya, City Of Mandaluyong

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

KUEHNE + NAGEL, INC. 5/f 501h-507-508h, Five E-com Harbor Drive, Brgy. 076, Pasay City

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Basic Qualification: Can Speak and Read Cantonese, Mandarin and Fukein Language

KONGANBUDDIES MARKETING INC. 12/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

ITECHNO SPECIALIST INC. U-608 Eastfield Ctr., Moa Comp. Macapagal Ave., Brgy. 076, Pasay City LIU, YUJUN Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: The IT Support Specialist (ITSS) is an integral member of the company infrastructure, Application Support, and of the IT division and is responsible for providing IT support of enterprise throughout the Chinese clientele

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

JIDA COMMUNICATION (PHILIPPINES) INC. 99 Comclark Reliance Center, E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Ugong, City Of Pasig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in Mandarin

INVECH TREASURE PROCESSING CORPORATION Ground, 2nd, 3rd And 4th Floor, Eight West Campus Mckinley West, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written

74.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written.

PUA JUIN YEE Mandarin Speaking Marketing Officer

LI, XIAO Mandarin Project Manager

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written.

Basic Qualification: Must have masters degree at least 5 yrs extensive work experience , and the analytics field at least 3 yrs management experience leading multiple

INSPIRING PG INC. 3f Filhome Builders Center, #68 Dona Soledad Avenue Better Living Subdivision, Don Bosco, City Of Parañaque

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Project Manager. Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills

Brief Job Description: Identify and assess customers needs to achieve satisfaction

INQUICK SERVICES INC. Unit 606 6/f Itc Bldg., 337 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English both verbal and written.

Brief Job Description: Responsible in assisting customer on products and services of the company

73.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

HEIGH IT SOLUTIONS AND SERVICES CORP. 20/f Zuellig Bldg., Makati Ave. Cor. Paseo De Roxas, Urdaneta, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Project Manager. Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills

Brief Job Description: Management and Suspense flames of Cams Analysts Data scientist and specialist to achieve department and company

HO TIEN DUNG IT Support Specialist

Basic Qualification: Able to speak mandarin Chinese and English.

HC CONSUMER FINANCE PHILIPPINES, INC. 15th Floor, Ore Central, 9th Ave. Cor 31st. Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

59.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Project Manager. Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak mandarin Chinese and English.

58.

JANOS, ANDREJ Crm Analytics Manager

71.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Basic Qualification: Track record of overachieving quota

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Book tickets, reserve accommodations, organize travel rental transportations.

70.

72.

GREAT ESCAPE TRAVEL CONSULTANCY CORPORATION Unit No. 2c Flr. No. 4, One E-com Bldg. Ocean Drive Moa Complex St. Zone 10 District 1, Barangay 76, Pasay City

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION DA, XIAOFANG Chinese IT Support Specialist

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

GO HUGE CAR RENTAL CORP. 7/f Ba Lepanto Bldg., Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati YU, GUILIN Service Agent

No.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

GHL SYSTEMS PHILIPPINES INC. 601-606 6/f One Corporate Plaza Bldg., 845 A. Arnaiz Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

FRONTIER POINT MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS INC. 29/f Techzone Bldg., Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati HO NGOC BINH Mandarin Accounts Staff

Brief Job Description: Responsible in answering customer questions about product and services of the company

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Account Manager. Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills

FLASH EXPRESS SOFTWARE (PH) CO., LTD. INC. 9th Flr. Arthaland Century Pacific Tower, 5th Avenue 30th Street Cor. 4th Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig LYU, TONGFANG Shared Service Center Manager

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION LEONG RONG TAU Mandarin Marketing Specialist

www.businessmirror.com.ph

SMITH TONY LESLIE Construction Manager 84.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for the management of all construction activities of the company’s projects

Basic Qualification: Minimum 10 years’ experience in the construction industry, with minimum 2 yrs in a leadership position, proven record in planning, organizing & leading a diverse labour force Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION DAVID WONG YOU KING Design Strategist

85.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

Brief Job Description: Develop appropriate construction methods together with the appropriate plant selection & temporary/ permanent work solution

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Minimum of 10 yrs’ experience in the construction industry with significant exposure to design

No.

DU, JUQI Mandarin Planning Engineer 101.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

86.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for demonstrating the value of the product, service and customers

Basic Qualification: Civil Engineer / 5-10 years work experience in form works industry

102.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

87.

Brief Job Description: Conducting research and marketing strategies to develop areas of the business

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in Mandarin

103.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

88.

89.

90.

FANG, SHUAI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

NGUYEN VAN TUAN Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

PHAM THI HIEN Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services

104.

105.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

106.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

91.

Brief Job Description: Developing and Implementing purchasing strategies. Managing supplier relations and negotiating contract prices.

Basic Qualification: College Graduate, With 3years experience on Purchasing Manager

107.

92.

Brief Job Description: Implement Design, Installation, Testing and Maintenance if software system YIN, XIN Mandarin Customer Service Representative

93.

Brief Job Description: Identify and asses customer needs to achieve satisfaction CHANG, HAI-YEN a.k.a. LISA CHANG Mandarin Human Resource Officer

94.

Brief Job Description: Delivery of relevant HR administrative and operational activities

108.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking reading and writing in mandarin

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

109.

95.

Brief Job Description: Monitor and evaluate customer service strategies, analyzing results and implementing necessary changes.

Basic Qualification: Preferrably 1-2years working experience ; should be fluent in madarin and english speaking

110.

111.

OMNIWEALTH ENTERPRISE INC. 17th Flr. Citibank Square Bldg., No. 188 Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Eastwood City Cyberpark, Bagumbayan 3, Quezon City

YEH, CHENG-HAO Customer Service Representative 96.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amounts of incoming calls. Generate sales leads. Identify and assess customers’ needs. Handle customer complaints. Follow communication procedures, guidelines and policies.

112.

97.

Brief Job Description: Research & target prospects clients

113.

114.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

98.

Brief Job Description: Determine and Formulate the most suitable and economical engineering construction method. Plan and develop construction procedures, Estimate a schedule of project activities to ensure that the deadlines are met DENG, CHAOYU Mandarin Planning Engineer

99.

Brief Job Description: Determine and Formulate the most suitable and economical engineering construction method. Plan and develop construction procedures, Estimate a schedule of project activitiesto ensure that the deadlines are met DONG, DOUDOU Mandarin Planning Engineer

100.

Brief Job Description: Determine and formulate the most suitable and economical engineering construction method. Plan and develop construction procedures. Estimate a schedule of project activities to ensure that the deadlines outlined are met.

Basic Qualification: Can Speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above

115.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

116.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above

POWERCHINA PHILIPPINES CORPORATION Unit 2101 21/f Bdo Equitable Tower, 8751 Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati CHEN, XUANRONG Mandarin Planning Engineer

OPERATION MDSERVICES INC. Unit 19-c Jmt Condo. Corporation, Adb Ave., Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: Highly experienced in the field

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

YAPI, LINDA LUISELLE BABA Lead Generation Specialist

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

Basic Qualification: Must be a College graduate; Can Prepare product or service reports by collecting and analyzing customer information; Can contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed; Can Manage large amounts of incoming calls

NOVATECH (PASAY) LIMITED, INC. 4th Flr. W Mall Bldg., Diosdado Macapagal Ave. St., Zone 10. Barangay 076, District 1, Pasay City CHAI WEN YAO Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Manager

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient in Speaking , Reading and writing in Mandarin

NOONA BUSINESS CONSULTING SERVICES INC. 10th & 31st Floor Ore Central Tower, 9th Ave. Cor. 31st St., Bgc, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig LIN, HAO-FENG Bilingual Software Developer

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Basic Qualification: Proficient in special, reading and Writing of Bilingual Languages

NOBLE HOUSE DISTRIBUTION ENTERPRISE INC. 4/f Pcci Corporate Centre, 118 L.p. Leviste St., Bel-air, City Of Makati GEKOSKI, AARON EDWARD Purchasing Manager-foreign Suppliers

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

NEW ORIENTAL CLUB88 CORPORATION 1331 Pearl Plaza Bldg., Quirino Ave., Tambo, City Of Parañaque Basic Qualification: knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

MIGHTY-MERCHANT BUSINESS TRADING INCORPORATED Unit 2505- E The Finance Centre, 26th St., Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig LIU, XIANXI Mandarin Speaking Marketing Specialist

MEVA PHILIPPINES, INC. Level 6 The Forum Bldg., No.71-a Sct., Borromeo South Triangle 4, Quezon City MOHD SYAZWAN GUNALAN BIN ABDULLAH Product Specialist

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

117.

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Can Speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above

No.

CUI, SHIZHUN Mandarin Planning Engineer (Construction ) 118.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above.

119.

120.

121.

122.

123.

124.

125.

126.

127.

128.

129.

130.

131.

132.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: shall determine and formulate the most suitable and economical engineering construction method. Plan and develop construction procedures. Estimate a schedule of project activities to ensure that the deadlines outlined are met. Determine the appropriate engineering techniques and sequence of activities for the project. Monitor project procedures, solve problems and ensure efficiency. ZHANG, TAO Mandarin Planning Engineer (Construction)

133.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above

Brief Job Description: Determine and formulate the most suitable and economical engineering construction method. Plan and develop construction procedures, Estimate a schedule of project activities to ensure that the deadlines are met LA, PENG Mandarin Planning Engineer (Construction)

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can Speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

134.

Brief Job Description: Determine and formulate the most suitable and economical engineering construction method. Plan and develop construction procedures. Estimate a schedule of project activities

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Can speak write, type in Mandarin language, Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

A15

A16

BusinessMirror

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION ZHAO, ZHENGPING Mandarin Planning Engineer (Construction)

135.

Brief Job Description: Determine and formulate the most suitable and economical engineering construction method. Plan and develop construction procedures. Estimate a schedule of project activities

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

Basic Qualification: Can speak, write, type in Mandarin language. Technical skills in software as stated above Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

147.

PRINCETECH MARKETING SOLUTIONS OPC 23f Tower 6789, 6789 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati NAKKHIAO, KAMONCHANOK Customer Support 136.

Brief Job Description: Handle Team, Monitor and Motivate each member, In charge of Training the team, Answer customer quires and complains, Coordinate customer feedbacks to management, Chat Support PATHUMPAIROT, THASSANEE Customer Support

137.

138.

Brief Job Description: Handle Team, Monitor and Motivate each member, In charge of Training the team, Answer customer quires and complains, Coordinate customer feedbacks to management, Chat Support

Basic Qualification: College graduate, preferably 3 years of relevant experience, Must be fluent in English and Thai

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Quality Inspector will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goal.

Basic Qualification: College graduate, preferably 3 years of relevant experience, Must be fluent in English and Thai

MISHRA, ANURAG Principal

148.

Basic Qualification: College graduate, preferably 3 years of relevant experience, Must be fluent in English and Thai

Brief Job Description: Deliver profitable growth while focusing passionately on client key business strategies and issues, including achieve consistent pipeline and team targets; drive strategic initiatives while demonstrating business acumen, promoting changes that create value and contribute to the future of ey while focusing on the drivers of financial performance; and provide exceptional client service to ensure a high standard in professionalism and consistency.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

HE, GUOKUAN Marketing Specialist 139.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for developing and managing all aspects of the company’s marketing strategy.

YANG, CAOSONG Marketing Specialist 140.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for developing and managing all aspects of the company’s marketing strategy.

YANG, SHUYI Marketing Specialist 141.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for developing and managing all aspects of the company’s marketing strategy.

149.

142.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for developing and managing all aspects of the company’s marketing strategy.

Brief Job Description: Handle service support calls, emails and chats related to inquiry from clients and/or customers through Mandarin to English translation YAW CHIA JING Customer Relation Representative (Mandarin Translation)

144.

Brief Job Description: Handle service support calls, emails and chats related to inquiry from clients and/or customers through Mandarin to English translation

150.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

151.

CHEN, QINGLI Mandarin Customer Support Representative

Brief Job Description: Handle and monitor purchasing department

152.

153.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Deputy Project Supervisor will be strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals.

155. Basic Qualification: Through extensive and fluency in Mandarin language and characters

Brief Job Description: Handle service support calls, emails and chats related to inquiry from clients and/or customers through Mandarin to English translation. WU, ZONE-ZHE Customer Relation Representative (mandarin Translation)

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin/Fukien and at least college level with related BPO experience

161.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Handle service support calls, emails and chats related to inquiry from clients and/or customers through Mandarin to English translation.

Basic Qualification: Through, extensive and fluency in Mandarin language and characters.

162.

163.

SUN, WEIMIN Cloud Technical Director

164.

Brief Job Description: Set-up, manage and develop the Cloud technical teams. Deliver and maintain public projects; take charge of the integration verification deliverability review, develop resource coordination, support the technical team, take charge of the training, development and improvement.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

VPC CORPORATE SOLUTIONS INCORPORATED 11/f 100 West, Sen Gil Puyat Ave. Cor., Washington St., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

TANG TIN NGUYEN Vietnam-speaking Customer Service Officer 158.

Brief Job Description: Prepares product or service reports by collecting and analyzing customer information

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

WIKITECH SERVICES INC. Unit 25d 2/f Zeta Ii Bldg., 191 Salcedo St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

Brief Job Description: Undertake a market analysis to include on the market characteristics and competitor characteristics

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficient Language skills and skills match to job

Brief Job Description: Undertake a market analysis to include details on the market characteristics and competitor characteristics

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in speaking writing and reading in mandarin

Brief Job Description: Responsible for organize the book keeping of the company

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficiency speaking, reading and writing in mandarin

Brief Job Description: Responsible for checking and reporting on the campaign progress

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficiency in speaking writing and reading in mandarin

Brief Job Description: Responsible for organize the book keeping of the company

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

WU, JIAN Chinese Interpreter Brief Job Description: Responsible for analyze transactions, corrects, records, and adjust errors.

166.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for research required information using available resources

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in speaking writing and reading in mandarin

Brief Job Description: Responsible for organize the book keeping of the company

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

LIU, JUNJIE Mandarin Audit Associate 168.

Basic Qualification: Proficiency speaking, reading and writing in mandarin

Brief Job Description: Responsible for completes allocated tasks to a high standards which meet set reporting and auditing standards

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

LIU, TINGTING Mandarin Audit Associate 169.

Basic Qualification: Proficiency speaking, reading and writing in mandarin

Brief Job Description: Responsible for completes allocated tasks to a high standards which meet set reporting and auditing standards

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficiency in speaking writing and reading in mandarin

HU, ZEPENG Mandarin Frontdesk Associate 170.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for organize the book keeping of the company

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficiency in speaking writing and reading in mandarin

HUANG, ZHILI Mandarin Frontdesk Associate 171.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for organize the book keeping of the company

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

FENG, JING Mandarin Marketing Assistant 172.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for assisting with the setup, facilitation and completion of marketing events WAN, XIUMEI Mandarin Marketing Assistant

173.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for assisting with the setup, facilitation and completion of marketing events

Brief Job Description: Responsible for organize the book keeping of the company

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proficiency in speaking, writing and reading mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ZI, CHUNYAN Mandarin Marketing Assistant 175.

Basic Qualification: Proficiency speaking, reading and writing in mandarin

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in speaking writing and reading in mandarin

WANG, KE Mandarin Marketing Assistant 174.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

CHEN, MINGJIE Mandarin Account Associate 167.

Basic Qualification: Proficiency speaking, reading and writing in mandarin

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in speaking, writing and reading mandarin

PENG, SUOSUO Chinese Technical Support Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: To provide consulting, technical and advisory services

Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job

GAO, PENG Chinese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Through, extensive and fluency in Mandarin language and characters.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ZOU, YUHUANG Chinese Consultant

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Through, extensive and fluency in Mandarin language and characters.

Brief Job Description: Organize promotions & events for company clients

LI, QINGTIAN Chinese Consultant

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College Graduate: Preferably 6 months -1-year as Sales Consultant & Fluent in Vietnamese and English Language

Basic Qualification: Proficient language skills and skills match to job

HUANG, KUN Mandarin Marketing Specialist

YOUBIN CONSULTANCY INC. 7/f Ba Lepanto Bldg., Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: College Graduate: Preferably 6 months -1-year as Sales Consultant & Fluent in Vietnamese and English Language

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

WANG, SONGQI Mandarin Marketing Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

VOLENDAY INC. U1406 14/f Pacific Star Bldg., Sen. Gil Puyat Cor. Makati Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

SNPDRI PHILIPPINES CORP. Unit 622 Bsa Twin Tower Bldg., J. Vargas, Wack-wack Greenhills, City Of Mandaluyong

Brief Job Description: Handle service support calls, emails and chats related to inquiry from clients and/or customers through Mandarin to English translation. WONG SOO HUEG Customer Relation Representative (mandarin Translation)

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Research industries, markets, demographics, trends, sales results, and other data related to the Vietnamese client’s services. Works as an independent consultant or as part of consultancy firm to provide sales expertise to Vietnamese clients. Create detailed reports with research findings and analysis to with sales strategies

LIFA VENETTA Customer Relation Representative (mandarin Translation)

157.

146.

160.

VICCI BUSINESS CONSULTANCY CORP. 10/f Liberty Plaza, 102 H.v. Dela Costa St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: Through extensive and fluency in Mandarin language and characters

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Deputy Project Supervisor, excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.

SINOMA CBMIPH CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION 37b Rufino Pacific Tower, Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

MA, JINZHONG Mandarin Deputy Project Supervisor

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints

PHAM HOANG LAM Vietnamese Sales Consultant

SHAHANAZ FASHION INC. Unit No. Stall 08 Flr. No.2/f Baclaran Bagong Milenyo Bldg., F.b. Harrison St., Barangay 076, Pasay City

145.

Basic Qualification: Manage the business affair of the company, initiate and develop company policies, projects, plans and programs.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

MA, HONGPING Mandarin Marketing Specialist

165.

UNITED MOTION BUSINESS CONSULTANCY INC. U-2215 22f Cityland 10 Tower 2, 154 H.v. Dela Costa Cor. Valero Sts., Bel-air, City Of Makati

154.

Basic Qualification: College graduate and fluent in English.

159.

TRIVES TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION Tower 4 Bayport West, Naia Garden Residence, Naia Road, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

156.

ISLAM, REDWAN Purchasing Staff

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Basic Qualification: Can Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends; Can Brainstorm and develop ideas for creative marketing campaigns; Can Assist in outbound or inbound marketing activities by demonstrating expertise in various areas.

SEEKTOP SERVICE MANAGEMENT INC. 25/f Alphaland Corporate Tower, 7232 Ayala Ave. Extn. Cor. Malugay St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

143.

Brief Job Description: Centre of experience for outage , contract & project

Brief Job Description: The Technical Consultant must be seen with high standard of professionalism and to be embodied the ideal of the company.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

CHUONG TAC DIN Customer Relation Representative (Mandarin Translation)

Basic Qualification: NHDIP elect engineering

TORN YANG PHILS. INC. Mabato Road, Ibayo, Tipas, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ZHANG, YU Marketing Specialist

Basic Qualification: At least 15 years of experience in technology and digital transformation, and in building, managing and leading a team with proven record; with indepth understanding of the marketplace, as well as industry trends and issues that will create opportunities to add value to the client’s business, with specialized knowledge and extensive project experience in one or more segment-al areas; and with ability to facilitate resolution of conflicts and politically sensitive issues internally and with client teams;

BALDWIN, GARY CARL Outage Project Management Manager

LIU, CHUN-YI Technical Consultant

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

THERMA LUZON INC. 14/f Nac Tower, 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as a Mandarin Quality Inspector , Familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Machinery and Heavy Equipment use by company, Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

No.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

S&P CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY & DEVELOPMENT CO., INC. U-1168b G/f Veca Bldg., Chino Roces Ave. Cor. Estrella St., San Antonio, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: Can Conduct market research to find answers about consumer requirements, habits and trends; Can Brainstorm and develop ideas for creative marketing campaigns; Can Assist in outbound or inbound marketing activities by demonstrating expertise in various areas.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

SYCIP, GORRES, VELAYO & CO. 6760, Ayala Avenue, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

HAO, XIN Mandarin Quality Inspector

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Brief Job Description: Responsible for assisting with the setup, facilitation and completion of marketing events

Basic Qualification: Proficiency speaking, reading and writing in mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

*Date Generated: Dec 13, 2021 In the ad material of Notice of Filing of Application for Alien Employment Permits published on November 26, 2021, the name of CHEN, HUNG-CHUN under MEGA-WEB TECHNOLOGIES INC., should have been read as CHEN, HUNG-CHUN a.k.a. CHEN, TSE-YUAN and not as published. In the ad material of Notice of Filing of Application for Alien Employment Permits published on December 02, 2021, the name of WANG, YUFEI under JIANGSU DIBANG CONSTRUCTION PHILIPPINES CORPORATION, should have been read as WANG, YUEFEI and not as published. Any person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired may file an objection at DOLE National Capital Region located at DOLE-NCR Building, 967 Maligaya St., Malate Manila, within 30 days after this publication. Please inform DOLE National Capital Region if you have any information on criminal offense committed by the foreign nationals.

ATTY. SARAH BUENA S. MIRASOL REGIONAL DIRECTOR

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Companies BusinessMirror

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Cautious optimism as car sales expand in Jan-Nov

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

@TyronePiad

ocal automotive manufacturers sold 240,642 vehicles in January to November, which exceeded the full-year volume in 2020, sparking optimism that the economy is on its way to recovery. The 11-month sales is about 8 percent more than 223,793 units sold by car makers last year, according to a joint report by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (Campi) and Truck Manufacturers Association. “Surpassing our last year’s sales

performance gives the industry a renewed hope that recovery is underway as restrictions started easing, and economic activities have resumed at improved levels,” Campi President Rommel Gutierrez said in a statement. The year-to-date figure is 22.7 percent better than 196,197 units

sold in the same period last year. Broken down, the commercial vehicle (CV) segment accounted for the bulk of the sales with 163,829 units, which grew by 21 percent from last year’s 135,340 units. Passenger car (PC) sales rose by 26.2 percent to 76,813 in the past 11 months from the previous year’s 60,857 units. In November alone, industry sales rose by 14.2 percent to 26,456 units from 23,162 units in the same month last year. Sales of CV improved by 18.7 percent to 18,251 units while PC sales were up 5.3 percent to 8,205 units in November. Toyota Motors Philippines Corp. retained market leadership, accounting for nearly half of industry sales. Its year-to-date sales surged by 34.6 percent to 116,165

units from 86,303 units in 2020. Following the Japanese automaker are Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. and Ford Motor Company Phils. Inc. with sales of 33,483 units and 18,154 units, respectively. Gutierrez sees the shift to online platforms as a continuing trend, describing it as a “viable strategy” for the car industry to cater to the needs of customers. Despite the optimism, the Campi official noted the local sector is always on the lookout for any pandemic-related events moving forward. “[The] industry remains cautious and on guard at the same time on the uncertainties brought by the Covid-19 mutations, which hopefully will not undermine our recovery,” he added.

Ayala unit to secure ₧300-M loan By Lenie Lectura @llectura

CE Enexor, Inc., the oil and gas arm of the Ayala Group, will borrow a total of P300 million to partly finance its projects including the planned 1,100 megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant in Batangas. Of t he P300 mi l l ion, ha lf will come from banks and the other half from AC Energy Corp. (ACEN). ACE Enexor Board of Directors approved a short-term loan from ACEN of up to P150 million to fund the initial subscription by the former to shares in Batangas Clean Energy Inc. (BCEI). BCEI is ACE Enexor’s joint ven-

ture company with Red Holdings B.V. for the development of an integrated liquified natural gas (LNG) terminal and a combined cycle natural gas and hydrogen power plant. The board also authorized ACE Enexor to secure bank loans of up to P150 million to be guaranteed by ACEN subject to the payment of a guarantee fee. ACE Enexor disclosed that it has appointed former SPEX (Shell Philippines Ex ploration B.V.) managing director Rolando Paulino as the company’s new president effective January 1, 2022. He will replace Raymundo A. Reyes, Jr., who, in turn, will be the company’s general manager effective January 1 next year.

Last month, an investment agreement was signed among ACE Enexor, Buendia Christiana Holdings Corp. (BCHC), US-based Red Holdings B.V., Gen X Energy L.P., and Batangas Clean Energy (BCE). Red Hold ings is a whol lyowned subsidiary of Gen X Energy, which, in turn, is a portfolio company of Blackstone Inc., the world’s largest alternative asset manager. BCHC is an ACEN’s special purpose vehicle that will own the land for its development projects. Under the deal, BCE will be the special purpose vehicle company where ACE Enexor and Gen X will each own a 50 percent interest in the power project, which will use natural gas and/or green hydro-

gen as its fuel to provide firm to power the grid to meet the country’s growing energy demand. “The transaction will potentially add 1,100MW of natural gas and/or green hydrogen power to the Company’s power generation portfolio,” said ACE Enexor, adding that the arrangements on management and operations will be finalized upon the execution of the shareholders agreement on closing. The investment deal also involves ACE Enexor’s subscription of 150,002 BCE shares for P150,219,040. BCE shall file an application for the increase in its authorized capital stock with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Fruitas Concession for Madagascar port sales up extended by 15 years–ICTSI in Nov

ood and beverage kiosks operator Fruitas Holdings Inc. on Monday said it posted its highest monthly sales in November. The company anticipates the seasonal uptick from the Christmas season, including lechon sales, will contribute to a better performance in December. “We are glad to see the results of our efforts to pivot our business during the pandemic. The introduction of community stores diversified our channels and complements our presence in high foot traffic locations such as malls, offices and terminals,” said Lester Yu, the company’s president and CEO. “We expect to benefit from the continuing recovery of the economy and further easing of quarantine restrictions.” Outlet sales in November were 59 percent ahead the figure last year. Average daily sales per company-owned store in November were 88 percent higher than last year and also 26 percent higher than November 2019. The company attributes the increase in average daily sales per store to the introduction of community stores and the permanent closure of unprofitable kiosks. VG Cabuag

Port of Toamasina in Madagascar. Photo from www.ictsi.com

nternational Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) said on Monday the concession for its port in Madagascar has been extended by 15 years, claiming that the extension “guarantees the presence of modern port capacity over the long term.” ICTSI and Société de Gestion du Port Autonome de Toamasina (SPAT) agreed to extend the concession for the Madagascar International Container Terminal from 2025 to 2040. Through Madagascar International Container Terminal Services Ltd. (MICTSL), ICTSI has been operating the Port of Toamasina since 2005. “When ICTSI, working with SPAT, first established a container terminal operation in Toamasina, it quickly became widely recognized as a center of excellence in the region. Today, in this new

phase of development, we aim to maintain this momentum, drawing on our industry expertise, new technology, attention to sustainability and applying the principles of good corporate citizenship,” ICTSI SVP Hans-Ole Madsen said. The Port of Toamasina is the main maritime gateway for Madagascar and MICTSL is the dedicated provider of state-of-theart container handling services. Throughout its tenure MICTSL, working in conjunction with SPAT, has capacity and streamlined services in line with the needs of Madagascar’s diverse import and export community. Madsen said the concession e x te n sion comple me nt s t he $639-million port expansion project now underway in Toamasina – with $411 million provided by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and $227 million

Globe spends $70M to fight cybercrime

by the government of Madagascar. Major container sector improvements include comprehensive quay and yard capacity expansions. A new 756-meter container berth, with a draught of -16 meters alongside and equipped with ship-to-shore container gantries, is central to plans to provide for increases of vessel size up to a capacity of 14,000 TEUs, Madsen said. Meanwhile, land side infrastructure include the addition of a 15-hectare container yard as well as a new gate complex, a modern workshop and extensive security infrastructure. Reefer capacity will be extended from the present 120 plugs to over 400 plugs. “Working with all stakeholders, we are very confident we can play a leading role in future proofing the port and ensuring the success of the port expansion project,” Madsen said. Lorenz S. Marasigan

Photo from www.globe.com.ph

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

lobe Telecom Inc. assured customers on Monday that it continues to invest in cybersecurity even as it has spent $70 million since 2015 to strengthen measures to fight cybercrime. In an online discussion, Globe Chief Information Security Officer Anton Bonifacio said the group puts prime importance to cybersecurity, noting that Globe has been investing in threat intelligence, identification, and vulnerability management tools to protect consumer data since 2015. Part of the $70 million investment also includes manpower training, awareness campaigns, and compliance. “What Globe has done is always captive to us, building our capabilities to prevent attacks and protect our customers. Since 2015, we have invested $70 million in security and privacy and we continue to invest in that space,” he said. For 2021, Globe’s cybersecurity team has blocked one billion

spam and scam messages and deactivated 5,600 mobile numbers that are related to cybercrime. Last month, an organized international crime group attacked unsuspecting Filipinos with SMS phishing, luring them to send money to a bank account in order to “cash out” a larger sum. This has been proven to be fake. Since then, telcos and government agencies are working together to address this issue. “Our security operations are a 24/7 thing,” Bonifacio noted. In February, the company announced that invested in a content-filtering system, costing the company $2.7 million to support its advocacy program, targeting illegal/pirated content and online child pornography. Globe also partnered with the National Privacy Commission to promote digital responsibility and data privacy among the Filipino youth through “Kabataang Digital.” The program launched in December 2020 aims to provide age-appropriate support for children to help them understand the nature of privacy and the digital environment’s implications on their privacy rights.

Companies BusinessMirror

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

SCG PHL revenue up in Q3 despite costly raw materials

By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

@TyronePiad

iam Cement Group (SCG) Philippines registered doubledigit revenue growth in the third quarter despite the lockdown measures and more expensive energy and raw materials.

The cement manufacturer reported that the revenue of its local unit for the period reached P3.89 billion, which showed a 17 percent year-on-year increase. This, however, is lower than the P4.55-billion revenue it booked in the previous quarter. SCG Philippines’ total assets, meanwhile, grew by 10 percent to P19.934 billion due to its cement building material business. In the third quarter, SCG Marketing Philippines Inc. launched a hardware business for local brands in five major Ceramic Ti les a nd More bra nc hes i n Batangas, Antipolo, Balintawak, Bacoor and Calamba. The company seeks further expansion before the year ends, in addition to finalizing the product portfolio for more and diversified offerings. United Pulp and Paper Co. Inc., an SCG packaging subsidiary, was able to maintain a robust operation despite the rising cost of raw materials amid the supply chain disruptions. “Despite esca l at ing bu i lding materials demand, bottlenecks in the global supply chain restricted supply and hindered shipping activities in key industries,” SCG said. “However, the trend is expected to turn in the

coming months, in time for the December holidays with rebounds forecasted.” Despite the delays in shipments, SCG said the subsidiary was able to continue catering to several manufacturers, including the food and beverage, personal care items and pharmaceutical industry, among others. Total revenues booked by SCG for the period was flat at $4.004 billion while the “normalized” profit slid by 47 percent to $275 million from the previous quarter amid “lower chemicals product spreads and equity income.” The third quarter profit includes the set impairment of cement plant in Myanmar and gain from fair value adjustment of investment was 60 percent lower at $207 million. Excluding Thailand, the SCG’s Asean operations ended the period with $1.012 billion. Total assets for the regional segment amounted to $10.981 billion, representing 44 percent of SCG’s total consolidated assets. “SCG’s financial position remains strong despite a dip in profits as a result of regional lockdown and higher fuel and raw material costs,” SCG President and CEO Roongrote Rangsiyopash said.

Shakey’s reopens Project Pie store

isted pi zz a rest au ra nt chain operator Sha key’s Pizza Asia Ventures Inc., on Monday said it re-opened a Project Pie store and will expand the brand in the country in the coming years. Project Pie is an artisan pizza concept brought to the Philippines in 2013. The chain is well-known for its build-your-own pizzas but it many of its stores, which were mostly in shopping malls, were shuttered. A Project Pie branch has opened at Shopw ise Hy per market in Makati, which is a rebirth of the brand, the company said. Shopwise is a retail chain by Gokongwei-led Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc.(RRHI). “We are delighted to reopen Project Pie at Shopwise. It is a well-loved brand with a solid patronage clamoring for us to bring it back. We are launching with a couple of stores, Antipolo and Makati, and are looking to build another handful of outlets next year,” Vicente Gregorio, Shakey’s president and CEO said. The Gokongweis are strategic investors of Shakey’s through JE Holdings, a private investment company of the family. JE Holdings has diverse interests across several industries including banking and retail. This year, RRHI has embarked on a store modernization program for its Shopwise outlets to elevate the guest’s shopping experience through a facelift of the outlet and the “premiumization” of its products, services, and food selections. “Pizza is immensely popular

among Filipinos, and we are excited for the launch of Shakey’s Project Pie in Shopwise. The concept of an artisan and upscale pizzeria is very much in line with our strategy to reinvigorate our hypermarket to serve customers better through delightful complements to their shopping experience,” Robina Gokongwei Pe, RRHI president and CEO, said. “We’re making a lot of changes to reposition Shopwise to become the go-to premium hypermarket for shoppers, and our direction is headed towards making shopping more enjoyable. Aside from the diversity of our merchandise and updating the look of our stores, our partnership with Shakey’s for Project Pie is a collaborative effort to achieve this,”Stanley Co, Managing Director of Shopwise Hypermarket, said. Shakey’s has been accelerating its store expansion program, exceeding its initial plan of opening 30 new stores for the year. The company has been rolling out proven store formats with faster payback, such as ghost kitchens, DelCo, and drive-through stores, strengthening its off-premise business. “Our store formats are designed to capture specific dining occasions. Nowadays, family shopping trips to the supermarket are often accompanied by eating out. Situating in a hypermarket with a high foot traffic is a great way to provide this captured market a convenient dining option. We believe that Project Pie is perfect for this occasion,” Gregorio said. VG Cabuag

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PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

December 13, 2021

Net Foreign Stocks Bid Ask Open High Low Close Volume Value Trade (Peso) Buy (Sell) FINANCIALs

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PBCOM PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK PHILTRUST RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL FIRST ABACUS IREMIT MANULIFE NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH VANTAGE

145,100 384,087,190 347,599,874 6,338,985 1,276,207 58,606,706 195,560 86,000 2,967,710 13,234 26,982 4,768,565 32,566,868 14,003,641 136,280 69,530 119,610 27,500 9,950 14,400 17,056 810

-8,800 137,217,544 154,408,053.50 -67,640 -13,676,673 -71,702.00 -10,364,287 -6,471,217 -83,000 20,250 9,000 -

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY 10.84 10.88 10.8 10.94 10.76 10.88 19,573,900 212,599,712 1.05 1.09 1.05 1.1 1.05 1.05 33,000 34,780 ALSONS CONS 30.2 30.5 30.7 30.7 30.2 30.2 1,111,300 33,800,715 ABOITIZ POWER 28.15 28.3 28.35 28.5 28.15 28.15 631,200 17,851,545 FIRST GEN 71.95 72 71.95 72.6 71.95 71.95 119,280 8,582,922 FIRST PHIL HLDG 296 297.8 297 298.8 295 297.8 165,140 49,188,944 MERALCO 26.35 26.4 25.2 26.6 25.15 26.35 5,870,300 154,633,995 MANILA WATER 3.22 3.23 3.25 3.25 3.21 3.22 3,905,000 12,575,310 PETRON 4 4.2 4.01 4.01 4.01 4.01 37,000 148,370 PETROENERGY PHX PETROLEUM 10.7 10.92 10.7 10.94 10.7 10.94 30,100 328,830 20.45 20.5 20.5 20.55 20.1 20.45 92,100 1,885,950 PILIPINAS SHELL SPC POWER 14.5 14.52 14.54 14.54 14.46 14.5 797,400 11,573,230 AGRINURTURE 3.95 4.12 4.18 4.18 3.9 4.13 57,000 228,630 AXELUM 2.88 2.97 2.84 2.97 2.83 2.97 3,580,000 10,424,830 13.2 13.78 13.18 13.78 13.18 13.78 200 2,696 CNTRL AZUCARERA 27.1 27.25 27 27.5 27 27.25 800,200 21,828,535 CENTURY FOOD DEL MONTE 14.76 14.8 14.5 14.8 14.5 14.76 41,100 603,674 9.1 9.11 9.02 9.1 8.8 9.1 2,737,700 24,686,468 DNL INDUS 17.86 17.9 17.88 18 17.76 17.86 2,952,400 52,984,506 EMPERADOR 73.5 73.7 73.9 73.9 73.5 73.7 157,710 11,602,647 SMC FOODANDBEV 0.58 0.6 0.57 0.59 0.57 0.59 80,000 46,800 ALLIANCE SELECT 1.22 1.23 1.24 1.25 1.22 1.23 4,558,000 5,594,750 FRUITAS HLDG 107 107.5 107.8 107.8 105.1 107 70,720 7,561,274 GINEBRA 227.8 228 233 234.8 226 227.8 593,520 135,716,414 JOLLIBEE 6.6 6.62 6.6 6.6 6.5 6.6 54,400 355,286 MAXS GROUP 0.16 0.167 0.16 0.164 0.16 0.164 260,000 42,400 MG HLDG MONDE NISSIN 16.1 16.12 16.14 16.32 16 16.12 56,205,900 906,121,164 SHAKEYS PIZZA 9.28 9.5 9.3 9.5 9.1 9.5 701,500 6,637,098 ROXAS AND CO 0.62 0.64 0.64 0.64 0.64 0.64 8,000 5,120 4.59 4.72 4.72 4.72 4.6 4.6 1,459,000 6,885,520 RFM CORP ROXAS HLDG 1.1 1.26 1.18 1.18 1.1 1.1 9,000 10,050 0.105 0.11 0.108 0.108 0.105 0.106 1,090,000 115,970 SWIFT FOODS 128.3 128.5 129.5 129.6 128.3 128.5 1,453,950 187,178,014 UNIV ROBINA VITARICH 0.74 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.74 0.75 1,567,000 1,167,450 2.35 2.52 2.52 2.52 2.52 2.52 40,000 100,800 VICTORIAS 46.35 48 48 48 48 48 3,000 144,000 CONCRETE A 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.14 1.12 1.13 967,000 1,085,560 CEMEX HLDG 14.5 14.6 14.5 14.6 14.5 14.5 13,700 198,668 EAGLE CEMENT 6.38 6.44 6.45 6.55 6.38 6.44 48,300 311,503 EEI CORP 5.11 5.12 5.17 5.17 5.12 5.12 787,200 4,042,239 HOLCIM 1.4 1.41 1.4 1.43 1.37 1.41 20,051,000 27,891,300 KEEPERS HLDG 5.2 5.23 5.22 5.28 5.2 5.2 284,700 1,484,960 MEGAWIDE PHINMA 19.68 19.78 19.9 20.2 19.5 19.68 462,600 9,287,578 TKC METALS 0.78 0.85 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 10,000 8,000 0.95 0.96 0.99 0.99 0.95 0.95 590,000 568,450 VULCAN INDL CROWN ASIA 1.71 1.74 1.73 1.73 1.73 1.73 4,000 6,920 EUROMED 1.44 1.5 1.42 1.5 1.42 1.44 58,000 86,480 5.66 5.75 5.75 5.75 5.66 5.75 3,900 22,398 PRYCE CORP CONCEPCION 20.15 21.65 20.45 21.65 20.45 21.65 1,000 21,170 2.38 2.4 2.42 2.42 2.36 2.4 3,533,000 8,475,480 GREENERGY INTEGRATED MICR 8.15 8.3 8.5 8.5 8.15 8.15 589,800 4,863,730 0.68 0.7 0.69 0.7 0.68 0.7 1,152,000 793,830 IONICS 5.59 5.93 5.95 5.96 5.88 5.88 7,500 44,511 PANASONIC 1.07 1.1 1.09 1.1 1.06 1.1 23,000 25,020 SFA SEMICON 3.66 3.69 3.7 3.7 3.64 3.68 676,000 2,478,780 CIRTEK HLDG

47,526,120 -5,034,855 4,699,170 -7,648,961 2,268,494 22,701,450 -109,510 -903,325 -1,013,686 -31,800 -3,694,360 7,073,221 871,568.00 -2,612,162.00 2,480 -11,839 -65,000,876 79,580 -36,338,508 3,878,838 -240 -133,063,934 20,160 112,500 172,550 -65,500 -3,514,589 2,097,580.00 -162,617 7,069,808 9,900 3,460 -1,698 16,830 1,143,569 42,440 103,280

HOLDING & FRIMS ABACORE CAPITAL AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL AYALA LAND LOG ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG ATN HLDG A COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT KEPPEL HLDG B LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP METRO PAC INV PACIFICA HLDG PRIME MEDIA REPUBLIC GLASS SOLID GROUP SYNERGY GRID SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP TOP FRONTIER ZEUS HLDG

43.9 123.9 93.15 25.9 9.3 50.85 8.74 16.66 19.82 57.5 108.5 20 118 103.8 1.61 4.05 0.62 0.88 922 0.6 208.4 0.81

0.98 849 58.2 12.2 6.24 7.3 0.9 0.39 5.17 7.81 7.6 570.5 3.5 54.9 6.1 0.63 2.96 10.04 3.85 2.92 1.16 2.27 1.12 13.92 944.5 111.1 119.6 0.167

44.5 124.5 93.5 25.95 9.31 50.9 9.3 17.9 19.84 57.55 109.7 20.25 118.5 104.5 1.66 4.13 0.64 0.92 995 0.69 213 0.82

0.99 854.5 58.4 12.24 6.25 7.4 0.91 0.415 5.18 7.86 7.95 574 3.88 55.2 6.8 0.65 3.04 10.06 3.88 3.26 1.25 2.9 1.19 13.94 948 111.3 121 0.176

43.85 121.2 90.65 25.7 9.4 51.5 9 17.2 20 57.55 107.9 20.3 117.5 104.9 1.79 4.15 0.62 0.92 995 0.6 213.4 0.81

0.99 869 57.5 12 6.37 7.3 0.91 0.39 5.2 7.9 7.5 570.5 3.5 57 6.1 0.63 3.08 10.12 3.9 3.27 1.25 2.32 1.11 14 940 111.1 122 0.167

44 124.5 93.9 25.95 9.43 51.5 9.85 17.2 20 57.55 108.5 20.3 118.5 105 1.79 4.15 0.62 0.92 995 0.6 213.4 0.81

1 876 58.5 12.3 6.55 7.4 0.91 0.39 5.22 7.95 7.99 577 3.5 57 6.1 0.65 3.08 10.14 3.92 3.27 1.25 2.32 1.12 14.2 950 111.6 122 0.167

43.85 121 90.6 25.45 9.31 50.75 9 17.2 19.82 57.5 107.9 20 116.8 101 1.66 4.05 0.61 0.87 995 0.6 213 0.81

0.96 841 56.5 11.8 6.2 7.28 0.9 0.385 5.15 7.75 7.5 568 3.5 54.9 6.1 0.63 2.96 9.99 3.85 3.27 1.18 2.27 1.11 13.9 940 111 120 0.167

43.9 124.5 93.5 25.95 9.31 50.9 9.3 17.2 19.84 57.5 108.5 20 118.5 103.8 1.66 4.05 0.61 0.87 995 0.6 213 0.81

0.99 849 58.4 12.2 6.25 7.3 0.91 0.39 5.17 7.86 7.99 574 3.5 54.9 6.1 0.65 2.96 10.04 3.85 3.27 1.25 2.27 1.12 13.94 944.5 111.3 121 0.167

3,300 3,123,370 3,727,040 245,500 136,600 1,150,960 20,700 5,000 149,300 230 250 237,200 276,400 134,860 81,000 17,000 196,000 30,000 10 24,000 80 1,000

4,434,000 389,750 1,471,380 8,079,600 8,163,500 31,700 328,000 250,000 2,321,700 5,223,200 11,400 155,880 129,000 2,162,560 2,000 11,000 4,000 3,322,200 13,069,000 1,000 26,000 13,000 3,000 5,932,100 118,170 261,170 8,700 410,000

4,377,200 332,716,910 85,256,137 97,564,148 52,142,227 231,801 295,230 97,300 12,004,506 41,016,906 85,549 89,327,655 451,500 119,553,485 12,200 6,950 11,980 33,288,293 50,630,600 3,270 31,100 29,870 3,350 83,058,912 111,604,210 29,056,533 1,047,550 68,470

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.62 0.63 0.63 0.63 0.62 0.62 405,000 251,350 6 6.47 6.47 6.47 6.47 6.47 600 3,882 ANCHOR LAND 35.8 36 35.55 36.25 35.55 36 11,333,000 407,652,190 AYALA LAND 1.01 1.03 1.03 1.04 1.01 1.01 72,000 74,470 ARANETA PROP 46.1 46.95 45.9 46.95 45.85 46.95 201,100 9,266,810 AREIT RT 1.34 1.37 1.37 1.37 1.34 1.34 88,000 117,950 BELLE CORP 0.8 0.81 0.8 0.82 0.8 0.82 4,000 3,220 A BROWN 0.74 0.77 0.75 0.75 0.74 0.74 19,000 14,090 CITYLAND DEVT 0.096 0.104 0.1 0.105 0.094 0.104 11,170,000 1,051,470 CROWN EQUITIES CEB LANDMASTERS 2.82 2.83 2.85 2.87 2.82 2.82 498,000 1,419,120 CENTURY PROP 0.395 0.4 0.395 0.4 0.395 0.395 1,450,000 578,750 DOUBLEDRAGON 7.1 7.11 7.03 7.15 7.03 7.12 142,200 1,012,560 DDMP RT 1.78 1.79 1.8 1.8 1.78 1.78 2,087,000 3,735,850 DM WENCESLAO 6.65 6.7 6.84 6.9 6.7 6.7 2,977,800 20,386,865 0.255 0.265 0.265 0.265 0.255 0.255 120,000 30,900 EMPIRE EAST 0.33 0.335 0.315 0.33 0.315 0.33 18,670,000 6,098,550 EVER GOTESCO FILINVEST RT 7.57 7.58 7.6 7.6 7.51 7.58 3,414,200 25,840,993 1.11 1.12 1.12 1.12 1.11 1.12 2,179,000 2,438,950 FILINVEST LAND 0.84 0.85 0.83 0.85 0.83 0.85 39,000 32,840 GLOBAL ESTATE 10.98 11.2 11.3 11.32 11 11.2 99,500 1,110,090 8990 HLDG 1.14 1.16 1.14 1.16 1.14 1.14 1,833,000 2,125,720 PHIL INFRADEV 0.91 0.97 0.91 0.93 0.91 0.91 40,000 36,420 CITY AND LAND 3.2 3.21 3.22 3.22 3.16 3.2 16,535,000 52,720,600 MEGAWORLD 0.26 0.27 0.27 0.27 0.26 0.265 5,020,000 1,321,650 MRC ALLIED 18.3 18.32 18.32 18.34 18.28 18.32 2,784,800 50,968,594 MREIT RT PHIL ESTATES 0.51 0.52 0.485 0.51 0.485 0.51 3,670,000 1,813,000 1.99 2.01 2.01 2.02 1.89 2 1,694,000 3,272,460 PRIMEX CORP 7.38 7.4 7.35 7.4 7.28 7.38 5,540,700 40,565,762 RL COMM RT ROBINSONS LAND 18.5 18.52 18.8 18.8 18.36 18.5 1,053,200 19,516,456 PHIL REALTY 0.21 0.219 0.21 0.21 0.21 0.21 500,000 105,000 2.57 2.62 2.6 2.62 2.54 2.62 234,000 600,460 SHANG PROP 35.35 35.6 35.2 35.95 35 35.6 5,304,800 187,452,830 SM PRIME HLDG VISTAMALLS 3.6 3.79 3.79 3.79 3.79 3.79 1,000 3,790 SUNTRUST HOME 1.12 1.17 1.17 1.17 1.11 1.12 74,000 83,100 3.64 3.72 3.7 3.72 3.63 3.72 535,000 1,975,320 VISTA LAND SERVICES ABS CBN 12.56 12.58 12.68 12.68 12.54 12.58 69,000 868,132 13.62 13.64 13.68 13.68 13.54 13.64 569,500 7,751,726 GMA NETWORK 0.41 0.445 0.445 0.445 0.415 0.445 130,000 57,500 MANILA BULLETIN 3,400 3,414 3,450 3,458 3,348 3,400 91,060 309,154,930 GLOBE TELECOM 1,729 1,730 1,721 1,730 1,710 1,730 72,010 124,034,510 PLDT 0.08 0.082 0.077 0.084 0.075 0.08 609,890,000 49,277,800 APOLLO GLOBAL 31.25 31.35 33 33.1 31.25 31.25 8,464,100 267,102,925 CONVERGE 2.62 2.68 2.7 2.73 2.61 2.62 391,000 1,056,390 DFNN INC 5.9 5.95 6.22 6.23 5.9 5.9 6,281,000 38,048,611 DITO CME HLDG NOW CORP 1.5 1.51 1.52 1.52 1.5 1.51 882,000 1,333,120 TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.3 0.305 0.305 0.305 0.3 0.305 1,340,000 408,650 1.83 1.88 1.83 1.88 1.82 1.88 92,000 167,970 PHILWEB 7.6 7.7 7.7 7.7 7.6 7.6 13,900 105,940 2GO GROUP ASIAN TERMINALS 13.8 14 13.9 14 13.8 14 8,300 115,990 CHELSEA 1.71 1.74 1.71 1.75 1.64 1.74 561,000 973,880 46.35 46.45 45.6 46.6 45.6 46.45 274,200 12,681,520 CEBU AIR INTL CONTAINER 195.3 195.5 197.4 198 195.5 195.5 716,140 140,356,823 20.55 22.5 22 22 22 22 1,000 22,000 LBC EXPRESS 0.9 0.95 0.96 0.96 0.95 0.95 13,000 12,450 LORENZO SHIPPNG 5.47 5.49 5.41 5.72 5.41 5.49 1,197,000 6,705,803 MACROASIA 1.2 1.21 1.22 1.22 1.15 1.2 58,000 69,210 METROALLIANCE A 0.89 0.92 0.9 0.9 0.89 0.89 158,000 141,620 HARBOR STAR 1.41 1.45 1.41 1.41 1.41 1.41 12,000 16,920 ACESITE HOTEL 1.8 1.9 1.76 1.9 1.76 1.9 148,000 262,340 DISCOVERY WORLD 10.9 14.76 11 14.76 11 14.76 900 10,756 GRAND PLAZA 0.48 0.495 0.475 0.48 0.475 0.48 370,000 177,500 WATERFRONT CENTRO ESCOLAR 6.52 6.77 6.52 6.52 6.52 6.52 800 5,216 6.98 7.68 7.68 7.68 7.68 7.68 1,600 12,288 IPEOPLE 0.35 0.36 0.35 0.355 0.35 0.35 950,000 335,600 STI HLDG BERJAYA 6.05 6.2 5.99 6.27 5.82 6.2 239,700 1,437,727 BLOOMBERRY 7.05 7.08 7.19 7.24 7.05 7.05 1,798,000 12,751,290 LEISURE AND RES 1.5 1.53 1.53 1.53 1.5 1.5 35,000 52,860 PH RESORTS GRP 0.85 0.86 0.83 0.88 0.83 0.86 2,498,000 2,138,520 PREMIUM LEISURE 0.44 0.445 0.445 0.445 0.435 0.44 1,750,000 762,450 0.63 0.64 0.68 0.69 0.62 0.63 155,366,000 100,445,860 ALLDAY 9.7 9.9 9.92 10.1 9.8 9.9 632,600 6,261,653 ALLHOME 1.44 1.45 1.42 1.45 1.42 1.44 260,000 373,470 METRO RETAIL 38.2 38.45 38.7 39.25 38.2 38.2 1,513,800 58,293,225 PUREGOLD 65.4 66.5 66 66.5 65 66.5 364,750 23,958,858 ROBINSONS RTL 89 91 88.5 89 88.5 89 37,940 3,376,650 PHIL SEVEN CORP 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.15 1.13 1.13 1,256,000 1,426,080 SSI GROUP 33.3 33.35 33.2 33.7 32.1 33.3 8,096,900 268,383,190 WILCON DEPOT APC GROUP 0.229 0.237 0.229 0.238 0.22 0.238 270,000 62,100 523 540 520.5 540 520 540 800 425,200 GOLDEN MV 7 7.04 7.02 7.04 7 7.04 16,100 112,974 IPM HLDG 1.59 1.6 1.58 1.64 1.56 1.6 30,421,000 48,744,950 MEDILINES PRMIERE HORIZON 0.61 0.62 0.62 0.64 0.6 0.61 13,608,000 8,350,330 MINING & OIL ATOK 6 6.03 5.55 6 5.55 6 98,000 585,606 1.36 1.39 1.36 1.4 1.36 1.39 282,000 389,710 APEX MINING 5.99 6 6 6 5.98 5.99 189,100 1,133,220 ATLAS MINING 5 5.1 4.92 5.02 4.92 5 15,100 75,448 BENGUET A 0.265 0.28 0.265 0.27 0.265 0.27 110,000 29,650 COAL ASIA HLDG 2.7 2.8 2.69 2.8 2.69 2.8 429,000 1,185,350 CENTURY PEAK 5.11 5.5 6.45 6.45 5.5 5.5 2,700 15,185 DIZON MINES 2.07 2.1 2.08 2.1 2.07 2.07 1,218,000 2,532,000 FERRONICKEL LEPANTO A 0.125 0.127 0.125 0.128 0.125 0.127 810,000 101,300 0.128 0.14 0.128 0.128 0.128 0.128 390,000 49,920 LEPANTO B MANILA MINING A 0.0086 0.0088 0.0087 0.0087 0.0087 0.0087 1,000,000 8,700 0.009 0.0091 0.009 0.009 0.009 0.009 10,000,000 90,000 MANILA MINING B 1.19 1.21 1.24 1.25 1.18 1.21 645,000 789,910 MARCVENTURES 1.01 1.05 1.05 1.06 1.01 1.01 31,000 31,960 NIHAO 5.1 5.12 5.06 5.17 5.04 5.12 2,573,300 13,168,458 NICKEL ASIA OMICO CORP 0.325 0.335 0.35 0.35 0.35 0.35 50,000 17,500 0.73 0.76 0.77 0.77 0.77 0.77 1,000 770 ORNTL PENINSULA 4.9 4.95 4.98 5.02 4.97 4.98 137,000 685,570 PX MINING 21.7 21.85 21.5 22.45 21.5 21.7 433,600 9,468,845 SEMIRARA MINING 0.0062 0.0063 0.006 0.0062 0.006 0.0062 13,000,000 79,800 UNITED PARAGON 36.2 36.3 37 37 34.8 36.3 1,304,800 46,523,410 ACE ENEXOR 0.01 0.011 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 26,100,000 261,000 ORNTL PETROL A 0.01 0.012 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 382,400,000 3,824,000 ORNTL PETROL B 0.0086 0.0087 0.0086 0.0087 0.0086 0.0087 22,000,000 189,800 PHILODRILL PXP ENERGY 6.26 6.27 6.31 6.32 6.26 6.27 161,300 1,011,740 PREFFERED HOUSE PREF B 99.2 99.6 99.6 99.6 99.6 99.6 100 9,960 100.5 101 101 101 101 101 1,000 101,000 HOUSE PREF A 516.5 532 526.5 538 526.5 530 1,010 537,955 AC PREF B1 505 509 505 507 505 507 6,750 3,416,980 ALCO PREF D 512 525 525 525 525 525 2,020 1,060,500 AC PREF B2R 100.6 101.8 100.8 100.8 100.5 100.5 12,000 1,209,100 BRN PREF A 45.95 46 45.05 45.95 45.05 45.95 7,100 325,320 CEB PREF 102.5 103 102.5 103 102.5 103 550 56,400 CPG PREF A 100.5 101 100.6 101 100.6 101 39,660 4,005,620 DD PREF FGEN PREF G 105.4 111 109 111.6 108 111.6 51,000 5,599,253 1,010 1,015 1,010 1,017 1,010 1,017 10,000 10,105,685 GTCAP PREF A 1,015 1,040 1,035 1,040 1,035 1,040 2,000 2,075,700 GTCAP PREF B 1,000 1,010 1,010 1,010 1,010 1,010 15 15,150 JFC PREF A JFC PREF B 1,015 1,032 1,015 1,015 1,015 1,015 10,050 10,200,750 99 100 100 100 100 100 1,100 110,000 MWIDE PREF 4 102.3 102.5 102.5 102.5 102.5 102.5 560 57,400 PNX PREF 3B 998 999 999 999 999 999 210 209,790 PNX PREF 4 1,080 1,100 1,058 1,100 1,058 1,070 940 1,032,180 PCOR PREF 3A 1,100 1,124 1,090 1,124 1,090 1,100 65 71,240 PCOR PREF 3B 1.52 1.99 1.5 1.52 1.5 1.52 6,000 9,060 SFI PREF 79.25 79.5 79.5 79.5 79.25 79.25 2,220 175,990 SMC PREF 2F 76 76.1 76 76.1 76 76 80,900 6,148,550 SMC PREF 2H 78 79.8 79.8 79.8 79.3 79.3 35,270 2,797,046 SMC PREF 2I 76.7 77 76.7 76.7 76.7 76.7 600 46,020 SMC PREF 2J 75.6 76 75.6 75.8 75.6 75.8 1,000 75,700 SMC PREF 2K PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 12.2 13.4 12.2 12.2 12.2 12.2 2,000 24,400 13.04 13.4 13.02 13.08 13.02 13.04 190,000 2,483,656 GMA HLDG PDR WARRANTS TECH WARRANT 0.82 0.83 0.83 0.83 0.8 0.83 40,000 32,560

531,550 15,414,265 37,729,447.50 1,440,518 1,143,161 110,903 966,263 -2,808,354 -799 -59,397,375 -56,241,122.50 3,080 4,089,282.00 -29,748,330 -29,870 -8,136,410 10,632,735 -7,230,842 36,100 81,366,750.00 3,711,860 -361,280 -23,900 65,088 128,970 -261,500 17,042,297 1,145,560 165,230 2,088,000 -10,263,070 5,200 -2,002,208 3,475,195 808,634 -9,718,995 -3,790 1,284,100 -5,153,240 54,265,100 -52,510 -5,693,490 5,400 -490,501 -1,690 8,470 -2,760 5,212,155 -21,421,281 570,045 -73,500 5,990 -5,041,877 25,410 6,210 -73,950 4,420,650 799,343 -26,433,060 -7,314,424.50 0 -924,020.00 395,330 -1,070,050 -168,890 2,810 1,160,150 -290,750 17,920 3,018,758 -14,910 71,710 1,270,030 17,200 95,498 -10,100 99,900 - -1,950,228 -

SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES ALTUS PROP ITALPINAS KEPWEALTH MERRYMART

20.25 2.17 2.85 2.5

FIRST METRO ETF

109.7

20.3 2.18 3.18 2.52

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

110.1

21.1 2.34 3.2 2.54

21.2 2.38 3.2 2.63

20 2.18 3.11 2.43

20.25 2.18 3.18 2.5

99,300 3,490,000 57,000 7,101,000

2,023,065 7,911,650 180,230 17,947,650

-6,360 148,020 -23,030 1,214,230

110 110 109.4 109.7 13,820 1,516,550 -109,813

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Banking&Finance

Tripartite OK in design of coins, notes backed By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

ENATOR Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay on Monday pressed for tripartite concurrence in changing designs of coins and notes, as she lamented booting out Philippine heroes in the P1,000 bill in favor of flora and fauna. Deploring the removal of three World War II-Filipino martyrs in the redesigned P1,000 banknote, Binay emphasized the need for congressional concurrence “before any major redesign is made in coins and notes” by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Binay suggested that designs for the legal tender should first be cleared and endorsed by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) and concurred by Congress before being released for circulation. “Baka dapat ’yung design ng pera hindi BSP lang ang mag-decide. ’Yung magpalit nga ng name ng school at kalsada kailangan may congressional imprimatur, bakit kailangang exempted ang BSP?” the Senator posed. Binay further emphasized that “redesigning our money should have the concurrence of Congress and the NHCP given its “relevance and implications in history,” reminding that “there is a higher purpose to what image or content should be printed on notes and coins.” Moreover, the Senator reminded concerned authorities that if even naming streets, schools and other things of historical significance pass through Congress, “notes and coins should also be accorded the same treatment.”

The Senator conveyed disappointment over the decision of the Bangko Sentral to expunge iconic Filipino heroes in its fresh design series in favor of Philippine flora and fauna. “Taking down heroes for an eagle?” Binay bemoaned. “Sadly, it is like saying that our martyrs and heroes are no longer worth our money,” she rued. The Senator aired misgivings after the BSP announced the issuance of new polymer P1,000 bills as part its direction to shift to a plastic synthetic material instead of cotton and abaca. The lawmaker laments that the BSP is “slowly silencing memories of heroism and patriotism.” Binay bemoaned that the BSP “did not only erase our heroes in the P1,000 bill, it also diminished Philippine history by focusing on plants and animals.” “Literal na nawalan na ng papel ang ating mga bayani,” the Senator said. [Literally, our heroes were removed on paper.] Nakakalungkot [It’s sad] that Josefa Llanes-Escoda, Jose Abad Santos, and Gen. Vicente Lim have become the first casualties of retail revisionism and hero de-legitimation.” “For some strange reason, the BSP is slowly silencing memories of heroism and acts of patriotism,” Binay further said. As a matter of policy, the BSP regularly re-designs and updates features of coins and banknotes as an anti-counterfeiting measure. The BSP’s fresh note series will be made of polymer material, which is said to be more hygienic, sustainable, durable and cost-effective.

FIRST ATM The state-owned Development Bank of the Philippines announced it has installed the first and only automated teller machine in Quinapondan, a fifth-class municipality in the province of Eastern Samar, to bring its services closer and more accessible to clients. This brings DBP’s ATM network to a total of 979 nationwide. Located in the lobby of the Quinapondan municipal hall, the DBP ATM will provide banking convenience to residents and businesses in the area that generally rely on non-bank intermediaries for their financial needs. Shown in photo are DBP Manager Zosimo Z. Isanan Jr. (left) with Quinapondan Municipal Councilor Elmer Ripalda. Photo courtesy of

Development Bank of the Philippines

BusinessMirror

@Tyronepiad

HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is urging trust companies to incorporate environment, social and governance (ESG) standards with their management of risks and allocation of capital amid the government’s campaign in promoting sustainable financing. BSP Governor Benjamin E. Diokno told members of the Trust Officers Association of the Philippines in a recent forum that implementing differentiated investment strategies for sustainable funds are crucial. “At the minimum, there must be sufficient evaluation of the issuers’

sustainability-related commitments and the sustainable impact of their products,” Diokno said. The central bank has been pushing for further implementation of sustainable finance. It incorporates the ESG standards in the assessment of the value, performance and longterm growth of an asset. Diokno has said that the BSP is enabling the regulatory environment to boost sustainable finance in the country. Earlier this year, the central bank issued a “sustainable finance framework,” or SFF and an “environmental and social risk management framework,” or the ESRMF. These are seen as benchmarks for the succeeding

Treasury raises ₧10B despite rejecting most bids for T-bills

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE national government raised P10 billion from its auction of Treasury Bills (T-bills) on Monday after investors showed “strong participation” for Philippine shortterm securities, according to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr).

The auction was more than fivetimes oversubscribed as the tenors attracted total bids of P52.758 billion. Average rates during Monday’s auction were lower at 1.125 percent for 91-day T-bills and 1.428 percent for the 182-day short-term securities. However, the 365-day T-bills saw a higher average interest rate of 1.649 percent compared to the

previous auction. “[We] saw strong participation with today’s auction being last for T-bills [for the year] and redemption of P28.56 billion this week, including maturing Premyo bonds,” National Treasurer Rosalia V. De Leon told reporters after the auction. De Leon was also asked about the possibility of the continuation of the

Premyo bond offerings in January to which she said the BTr is “making plans” but will still determine if the offer could be done in the first month of the new year. The Treasury reported that for the 91-day T-bills, P2-billion worth of offers were accepted. A total of P14.757 billion were rejected. For the 182-day T-bills, a total of P3 billion offers were accepted by the BTr. Some P16.36 billion were rejected. In terms of the 364-day shortterm securities, P5 billion were accepted and P11.641 billion were rejected. For this month, the Treasury programmed to borrow P70 billion from the local debt market. The amount is smaller than previous months as the government slows down in taking up debt and to stick to its annual borrowing program. Likewise, the state attempts to maintain its debt-to-GDP ratio “at “sustainable levels.” The ratio

measures the proportion of the country’s national debt to its gross domestic product (GDP). As of the end of the third quarter, the debt-to-GDP ratio is already at 63.1 percent, zooming past the projected 59.1 percent target for this year. Government economists forecast the debt-to-GDP ratio to peak next year at 60.8 percent—slightly above the internationally-accepted threshold—before gradually tapering off to 60.7 percent and 59.7 percent in 2023 and 2024, respectively. The Department of Finance (DOF) sees the national government returning to its pre-pandemic debt and budget deficit levels only by 2024 or by 2025, two or three years after the Duterte regime. This, however, would be achieved if the recommended fiscal measures are passed early by the next administration and if the economy quickly recovers, according to the DOF.

Ensure fertilizer-making 8 wise money management given incentives, DTI told tips this holiday season By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

ITH the looming global shortage of inorganic fertilizers and its adverse impact on the country’s food supply and prices, the House Committee on Ways and Means on Monday asked the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to ensure that the production of fertilizers is an incentivized activity under the Strategic Investment Priorities Plan (SIPP). During the committee hearing, Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda chided the DTI and the Board of Investments for delays in the release of the SIPP. He said the delay in issuing the list drags investor-uncertainty over tax incentives to four years already and “this is unacceptable.” The SIPP is the list of sectors that are qualified for tax perks under the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (Create) Act or Republic Act (RA) 11534. “Mark my words, there will be a global shortage of synthetic fertilizers,” Salceda said at last Monday’s hearing of the House tax panel. “Along with corn prices, this is the major threat to Philippine food supply. These are the most important inputs to both livestock and plant food,” the lawmaker added. Last week, Salceda also gave the DTI and BOI a deadline for the release of the SIPP, which is March next year. Failure to meet that, he said, would force the Lower Chamber “to use the committee’s oversight powers over [the] Create [law].” “We have oversight powers over the entire tax code. The SIPP is in the tax code. We will be compelled to call in the DTI and BOI by March,

2022, if we don’t see meaningful results in the issuance of the SIPP,” Salceda said.

Need to diversify

SALCEDA said in a statement that the production of organic fertilizers, topsoil preservation and other practices to ensure that agricultural productivity doesn’t decline when inorganic fertilizers become unaffordable to small farmers. “We need to diversify our fertilizer mix. That includes the production of organic concoctions, which we have already trained thousands of Albay farmers for, anticipating this global shortage of inorganic fertilizers,” he said. “I think the production of inorganic fertilizers for commercial use should also be included in the SIPP, as fertilizers are. If we will mitigate the effects of the potential shortage and price surges in inorganic fertilizer on food production, we need to have substitutes,” Salceda added. The senior lawmaker said the fertilizer price index has increased more than 200 percent over the past year. “I don’t see it abating to pre-pandemic levels anytime soon.” The lawmaker explained that if the Philippines wouldn’t have enough domestic fertilizer production, “our food supply [would be] at the mercy of the global market.” Salceda further said that nearly a hundred-percent of the world’s reserves of phosphate, the main ingredient to inorganic fertilizer, is in just five countries. Morocco, South Africa, Algeria, Senegal and Tunisia possess 98 percent of the reserves of phosphate. “Any instability in their supply chains makes us very vulnerable,” Salceda added.

BSP urges trust companies to enforce ESG standards By Tyrone Jasper C. Piad

Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Tuesday, December 14, 2021

BSP policy issuances in sustainable finance. The BSP explained that the SFF tackles integrating sustainability and ESG considerations in banks’ corporate and risk governance frameworks, business strategies and operations. The ESRMF, meanwhile, provides supervisory expectations on the management of environmental and social risks in the context of credit and operational risks. “The BSP will remain steadfast in leading sustainability principles in the banking sector consistent with our national aspirations for sustainable development,” Diokno said. Apart from trust companies, the central bank previously urged banks

and other financial institutions to “understand and manage climate change and ESG risks to fully maximize opportunities behind lending or investing in green or sustainable projects.” Banks are being encouraged to be “innovative” in crafting sustainable finance instruments that can boost funds for economic recovery amid the pandemic. Trust entities are BSP-supervised financial institutions that perform investment management services. The total assets under management of the trust industry grew by 18.4 percent to P4.8 trillion in June. These are about a quarter of the banking system’s total assets.

RE you excited for the upcoming celebrations this Christmas season? Here in our country, the holiday season starts in September: as we all say, we have a long Christmas season; the so-called “Paskong Pinoy.” This is a very joyful moment with our families, friends, colleagues and acquaintances in the workplace; from the “Monito Monita” to buying presents for all our relatives. However, despite of the joyous moment, it can also be a financial burden to most of us. If we are not aware of the costs of expenses just to celebrate, we might end the season with debts. I would like to share some hacks on how we can avoid overspending during the holidays. 1. Create a budget and stick to it. Once you start buying stuff for gift-giving, you may not notice that your expenses are piling up. Considering that you have other bills as well is the reason why we should also set a budget for the gifts we will buy. This will allow you to set limitations and prioritize value over cost. There are items that will help you be remembered by your families and/or friends without spending too much. This is a good time to practice your budgeting skills. 2. Consider personalized gifts. Sometimes the best presents are homemade or crafted by your own hands. It gives us a chance to show our creativity and thoughtfulness. To give you an idea, here are some homemade Christmas gifts: baked goods (cookies, cupcakes, brownies); scented soap; and, custom-made mugs or coasters. 3. Shop early. With so many people buying gifts, we need to be strategic to avoid increase in prices. By doing early shopping, you can look for promos and/or sale of ecommerce platforms and malls. This way, you can save a portion of your budget so you can have excess and look for bargains. 4. Look for holiday-related gigs. If it’s not possible for us to save money, why not earn instead this holiday season? If we really need to increase our budget, having a side hustle is a good option. Here are some side gigs that you might consider or a skill and/or passion to monetize: selling unused gadgets online; doing some online events (could be a webinar, hosting, singing etc.); preparing some cookies and sell them to your friends; and, selling some pre-loved clothing. 5. Consider smaller scale celebrations. At this point in time, big celebrations are not encouraged

Karlo Biglang-Awa

personal finance since majority are still prioritizing safety protocols. Having a smallscale gathering can also reduce our expenses. Some are doing online celebrations so we can still interact with our love ones. 6. Maximize promos and/or coupons. There are a lot of online transactions nowadays that provides coupons or discounts. Every time we use our credit card, we can accumulate points that we can use to buy other stuff as well. Take note of these benefits because these can still save you a portion of your expenses. 7. Save a portion of your bonus and/or profit. Most of the time, we may overlook saving our bonuses this season. Since most of us are busy buying gifts and preparing for celebrations, our savings can be the least priority. But then, if you can set aside it first, you may develop discipline as you start the new year. I remember when I used to receive a bonus from our company, I saved 30 percent of my income and just used 70 percent for gifts and celebrations. While this may not be possible to most of us, it is still better to target saving a portion of your income. Eventually you will carry this over as we face a new year. 8. Start investing your income. Some of us may have surplus income this season as well. It may come from your bonus or, if you’re an entrepreneur, you have more customers buying your products or availing your services. If you have excess, this is a good time to also start investing. Consider investing in mutual funds, the stock market or even real estate. Consider the investment as your gift to yourself and your love ones, because money invested today, will be something useful for the future. I am declaring a prosperous season to all of us. Aside from the tips that I mention, I would like to encourage everyone also to prioritize our health and remember the true meaning of this season, which is remembering our Lord Jesus Christ. God bless us all! Karlo Biglang-Awa is a registered financial planner of RFP Philippines. To learn more about personal-financial planning, attend the 93rd RFP program this January 2022. To inquire, e-mail info@rfp.ph or text at 0917-6248110.

Art

BusinessMirror

Tuesday, December 14, 2021 • Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Today’s Horoscope

❶ MIRROR

Mirror on the Wall, Distort Monsters, 2021, acrylic and spraypaint on canvas, 48”x36”

By Eugenia Last

❷

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Vanessa Hudgens, 33; Sophie Monk, 42; Beth Orton, 51; Dee Wallace, 73.

❸

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: A liberated attitude will help you prepare for unexpected changes this year. Rise to all occasions, and display your ability to adjust. Use your resources to overcome any obstacle and turn it into an opportunity. Rely on your intuition, not what someone tells you. Think and do for yourself. Honesty is the quickest path to peace of mind. Your numbers are 9, 17, 22, 24, 37, 41, 46.

DUALITY, Distort Monsters, 2021, acrylic and spray paint on canvas, 36”x36” IMPOSTOR, Distort Monsters, 2021, acrylic and spray paint on canvas, 36”x36”

❶

❷

❸

Distort Monsters hits back and reclaims what’s his

VERYTHING was set for the next solo exhibition of visual artist Distort Monsters. He had the dates secured and the pieces in place for a showcase that would further his transition from doing street art into gallery exhibits, while retaining his credibility as a street artist. A little over a month before the opening, however, a collector tipped him off that a certain gallery was selling works that bore an uncanny resemblance to his signature style. A mob of mischievous monsters, wearing the same menacing blank stares shot from round eyes. But instead of having the original dashed lines all over the body, which implied fur and texture, they had solid lines, as if the broken segments were dotted together.

The artworks’ title: Funny Monsters. “Being that this is the first time something like this happened to me, I was initially unsure about how to feel,” Distort Monsters wrote in an Instagram post, adding that he considered simply writing off the issue as a “decision done in poor taste by an aspiring young artist.” He reached out to the artist, before piecing together the bigger picture. Distort Monsters realized that the gallery selling the works in question reached out to him a month prior. He did not respond, feeling something was up. “That gut feel was proven right today when they posted the plagiarized works for sale,” he wrote in the post. “To make things even worse, it was the gallery who secretly commissioned the artist for those pieces.” The gallery received about as much backlash as Distort Monsters did got support. So much so the artist decided to replace the entire concept of his scheduled solo at the last minute, with one that serves as his response to the issue. On view at Village Art Gallery in Alabang Town Center is FUNNY BU$INESS. The exhibition opened on December 4 and runs until December 16. “I switched it up because it was something relevant at the time and it was a way for me to put out a

statement without having to talk with the gallery,” Distort Monsters said in an interview. “The show is about me reclaiming my identity.” nnn SkATEBOArDING. Punk rock. Street Art. Distort Monsters considers these as his personal trinity, being all deeply rooted in “counter-culture” and on a “do-it-yourself ethos.” Skateboarding was something he always wanted to do as a kid, drawn by its aggressiveness and tenacity. The passion bled into punk rock, a music genre featured in most skate videos, and he ended up playing in a hardcore punk band, something that he still does to this day. He was also drawn to the rich images used in skateboard decks, inspiring him to create his graphics. “I’d make my own characters, hand-draw them on sticker paper, and I would slap them everywhere,” Distort Monsters said. “I eventually met other skaters who turned out to be graffiti writers and street artists, and was invited to join them for some sessions. The moment I picked up my first spray can, I knew that it was what I wanted to do with my life.” As the artist carved his own niche, he began to look at other street artists who began gallery work. He tried to teach himself to draw better, but could

Continued on B5

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Inconsistency will rear its ugly head if you are gullible or lack initiative. Think matters through, budget wisely and don’t let outsiders interfere with your plans. The road to success requires patience, insight and trust in your ability to succeed. HHH

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Be careful what you say and do. Someone in a position of power can make or break your plans. Choose your words carefully, and execute your plans with precision. A perfect launch will carry weight and lead to success. HHH

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Call those you know and trust to do as you ask. Set a goal, and relay your message with precision. You stand to gain mentally, physically and financially if you are direct and take control. Romance is favored. HHHH

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Emotions will stand between you and what you want. If you overreact, take on too much or let someone steal your thunder, you will backpedal your way to the starting line. Put your feelings aside and be practical. HH

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): It’s up to you to make things happen. Don’t wait for someone to make the first move. Wasted time will lead to disappointment, regret and anger. There is nothing you can’t achieve if you concentrate on what’s important to you. HHHHH

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Pay attention to personal matters instead of getting involved in what’s happening to others. A steady pace will lead to the perks you want and the chance to meet people heading down a similar path. HHH

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You can take control of any situation you encounter if you speak from the heart. An energetic approach will help you build a better life. Let go of the past, and move forward with the momentum to finish what you start. HHH

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Keep your personal and professional lives separate. Indulgent behavior will make you look bad. Don’t share too much information with your peers, relatives or lover. An emotional response will leave you in a vulnerable position. Don’t limit what you can achieve. HHH

Art in the time of Covid-19 THE social development arm of the Araneta Group, the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF) is conducting a series of online art therapy sessions to select youth participants and medical frontliners in response to ill effects of the pandemic. Titled I am Visible: Mental Wellness Through Art Therapy, the project—which was organized via a grant from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)— started with its first online session via Zoom just recently. I am Visible aims to acknowledge the mental health crisis happening in the country today which is being exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic. Among those affected are students who deal with stress and depression given the current online learning set-up, and doctors and community health workers who deal with burnout and anxiety from longer working hours and various work hazards. “This is one of the bold and major undertakings of JAAF for 2021. We have taken steps to help address a growing issue of the society—mental health. We have targeted vulnerable groups, which happen to be within our circle of influence, and even beyond,” JAAF executive director Diane Romero remarked. JAAF partners with the Makati Medical Center Foundation

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Don’t give in or give up. Anger will make you look bad. Pour your energy into something worthwhile. Focus on what you want to do and how you can turn it into a lucrative goal. Baby steps will help you reach your destination. HHH

for I am Visible, with the latter providing facilitators and identified doctor-participants. Joining the program as art coaches are veteran artists Rene Canlas and Julius Legaspi, who will introduce the medium of drawing and painting: pencil, pastel, watercolor, and acrylic paints. The program includes an online exhibit launched last October 10, which is designated as World Mental Health Day. The exhibit is curated by art teacher Jonah Mari Valenzuela, who has 15 years of art teaching experience with Xavier School Manila. The virtual exhibit is hosted on the web site of Araneta City’s art museum, the Gateway Gallery, which spearheads the I am Visible project. The exhibit will be up until January 10, 2022. Most of the time, mental health problems are dismissed and swept under the rug. With I am Visible, participants are given voice, listened to, acknowledged, and made visible. With I am Visible, mental health becomes legitimized, discussed and supported because healthy communities start with holistically-healthy individuals. JAAF and Gateway Gallery is thankful to the NCCA, Makati Medical Center Foundation, and CANVAS for supporting I am Visible and the mental health cause.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Embrace change, and make it work for you. Invest time and effort into how you live and making your domestic situation better. An open discussion will lead to positive change. Honesty is the best policy, and romance will enhance your life. HHHHH

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Be observant, but don’t interfere. Pushing your beliefs or thoughts on others will backfire. Diplomacy will allow you to maintain your status quo without being blamed for what occurs. Do what you can without ultimatums. Put your energy into professional gains. HHH

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Don’t get angry; get moving. Take the initiative and make things happen. A change in how you approach your livelihood will make a difference in the way others treat you. Be smart and use your skills, and you will excel. HHHH BIRTHDAY BABY: You are sensitive, unpredictable and questioning. You are passionate and generous.

‘define your boundaries’ BY PAUL COULTER The Universal Crossword/Edited by David Steinberg

ACROSS 1 Ease up 6 Blown away 10 Word after “welcome” or “yoga” 13 Early wake-up time 14 Pink, like a steak 15 “Rocks” 16 Goes too far 19 Baby seals 20 Sell 21 Express lane unit 22 Slice of history 23 Mr. Rogers’ first name 25 Enjoy some egg rolls 27 Herding dog with rough hair 29 Factions 33 Ticket parts that might be scrapbooked 34 Get ready, for short 37 Be behind on bills 38 ___ I’m a Cheerleader (1999 satirical comedy) 39 ___ Field (home to the Mets) 40 Chess pieces 41 Boxer Ali 43 Train a boxer?

44 45 47 49 50 52 53

Common retirement spot? *Chalk drawings on pavement Legendary people Knee part: Abbr. Leave speechless ___-cone Painter whose name anagrams to “yoga” 55 Bluish green 57 Girl in Edinburgh 61 Caused a feeling of irritation 65 Hash browns ingredient, informally 66 Competed 67 Music genre that might give you the feels 68 Wipe from a chalkboard 69 Caesar’s words to Brutus 70 “You’ve ___ your match!” DOWN 1 Makes certain 2 Cameo role 3 Things that might be on the chopping block? 4 (Is this thing on?) 5 Middle of summer? 6 Curved like a rainbow

7 8 9 10 11 12 17 18 19 23 24 26 28 30 31 32 34 35 36 41 42 45 46 48 51 52

Advise of danger Wear away ___ Plaines, Illinois Catcher’s catcher Feeling after leg day Abound State confidently Location Cat or ferret, e.g. Calf bones Begin again Pain-relieving pill Creator of a 3D puzzle cube Sandwich, chips and drink, e.g. 11- or 12-year-old Puts in the mail Classic IBM products Tear “Wheels down” info: Abbr. Brand with a green crocodile logo Not just seasonal Move like a dog’s tail Ballerina’s skirt Young stallion Audacity Cold shower?

54 56 58 59 60 62 63 64

“___ boy!” Butting heads “Uh...excuse me” ___ Places More Than Other (Renee Watson novel) Little twerp Word that establishes consent Get a lode of this! Campus e-mail ender

Solution to today’s puzzle:

Show BusinessMirror

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Distort Monsters hits back and reclaims what’s his Continued from B4 never overcome his difficulty drawing proportionally or realistically. Frustrated, the artist began to draw things “badly on purpose.” Weird proportions, extra body parts, the works. Thus came the name “distort.” Meanwhile, “Monsters” came later on in college, when he dealt with terrible bouts of anxiety and turned to drawing as a coping mechanism. “every time i would feel an anxiety attack coming, i’d pull out a pen and paper and draw,” he said. “after accumulating stacks of drawings, my best friend was going through them and asked me why i kept drawing monsters.” The artist never really intended the characters to come off as monsters, but realized that these creatures must be the voices in his head. drawing them, he rationalized, must be a way for letting these monsters out, freeing himself of their control, helping him to calm down. “it’s been years since then and i’m in a much better place now,” distort Monsters said. “i feel like i cope with my anxieties well enough. i’ve embraced my monsters and accepted that they are a part of me. From being actual monsters, i’ve had to battle, they now represent who i am.” nnn PresenTed in FUNNY BU$INESS is personal commentary of distort Monsters on the issue: a mockery of the imitation. There are several pieces in which the artist presents his characters interacting with their versions. in Impostor!, the artist recreates the popular meme with startled spider-Men pointing at each other. in Mirror Mirror on the Wall, standing on each end of the reflection are the original and the copycat. “This show is about distort Monster channeling all the stress and frustration from the plagiarism issue,” said anton Lorenzo, Gallery Manager of Village art Gallery. “[it’s] a way for him to make light of the situation, and a way to reclaim what he has been working so hard on these past couple of years.” n

JUDGE OKS REGULATORS’ SUBPOENA FOR ‘RUST’ ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

SANTA FE, New Mexico—The assistant director who handed Alec Baldwin a prop gun that killed a cinematographer on a New Mexico film set must make himself available for an interview with state workplace safety regulators, a judge has decided. District Judge Bryan Biedscheid on Friday granted a request by the Occupational Health and Safety Bureau of the state Environment Department to issue a subpoena to Dave Halls, assistant director for the movie Rust, local news outlets reported. Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was killed and director Joel Souza was wounded in the October 21 shooting on the Bonanza Creek Ranch film set near Santa Fe. Safety officials tried twice since November 2 to interview Halls for their investigation but he declined both times through his attorney and said he wouldn’t agree to an interview until a criminal investigation into the shooting is complete, a compliance officer wrote on Wednesday in an affidavit in support of the subpoena request. The interview with Halls is needed because he had responsibilities for set safety, knew who was present during the shooting and had handled the gun, the application said. Rebecca Roose, deputy cabinet secretary of the Environment Department, told the Santa Fe New Mexican that the department proposed a Tuesday interview but that the judge could set another date or Halls’s attorney could fight the subpoena. Halls’s attorney, Lisa Torracco, on Saturday did not immediately respond to a voicemail left by The Associated Press seeking comment. However, KOB-TV reported that Torraco told the station that Halls will cooperate with state investigators. Baldwin has said he didn’t know the gun contained a live round and that investigators must find out who put it in the weapon. AP

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

• Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Believe picks Viva Music as strategic partner

aris-based music company believe has acquired a 15-percent stake in Viva Music and artists Group (VMaG), the current leading music label in the Philippines and touted as one of the biggest labels in southeast asia today. That 15 percent is approximately worth around $26 million and the del rosarios are elated over the sealed partnership. “it is with great pleasure and honor that i welcome believe’s entry into Viva. being one of the world’s leading digital music companies, believe brings with it its unparalleled track record in music technology advancements and superior industry-leading label and artists services. With this partnership, opportunities will become boundless as the Viva Music and artists Group will be definitely be pulled higher to the next level,” remarked Vic del rosario, the top honcho at Viva Holdings inc. He added, “With Viva’s 50 strong years in local entertainment, the entry of believe will solidify our stronghold in the music scene and escalate our roster of very talented artists to a more competitive level, making their dreams of being internationally renowned closer to reality.” For his part, sylvain delange, managing director for asia Pacific of believe, is excited with the many possibilities this acquisition will bring to the table of the world’s leading digital music company. “i am extremely happy to establish this long-term partnership between our company and the Viva Music group, touted as the most established and most innovative music company in the Philippines. i am very confident that leveraging each other’s expertise, this joining of forces will enable both believe and Viva to seize all the available opportunities in the Philippine market and contribute to the steady rise of

your exceptionally talented artists.” VMaG is controlled by Viva Holdings, the familyowned media company that owns the oldest and the richest back catalogue in the Philippines. among its esteemed roster of music artists are sarah Geronimo, regine Velasquez and sharon Cuneta. The asian continent is the fastest-growing digital music market and experts say that it will become the largest recording music market globally by the end of the decade. believe started investing in the region as early as 2013 and is now the leading digital player in 14 territories. We learned that believe has been collaborating

with VMaG since 2019 on the regional development of its artists and this timely and well-planned partnership will expand the existing alignment and reinforce the many strengths of VMaG’s unique catalogue. Vicente eduardo “Verb” del rosario, Vic’s grandson, is a major player in VMaG. as the president of Viva records, he has been calling the shots to continue searching for avenues so that local artists will be able to penetrate the international music scene faster. “This partnership with believe is very exciting. it will definitely push Viva artists, Filipino artists, further up in the international music arena.” n

GMA execs chosen as jury members in Intl Emmys, NYF Awards SEVERAL GMA Network executives were selected to be part of the 49th International Emmy Awards and the 2021 New York Festivals (NYF) TV and Film Awards juries. Senior vice president for news and public affairs Marissa L. Flores was invited as one of the Final Round jurors at the 49th International Emmy Awards. She evaluated this year’s entries in the News and Current Affairs category. Flores has been instrumental in GMA becoming the Philippines’s most awarded and most credible broadcast news organization over the years. Joining Flores as Final Round jurors were first vice president for program management Jose Mari R. Abacan and vice president of worldwide division Roxanne J. Barcelona. Since 2007, Abacan has been invited by the Emmys to share his expertise. This year, he judged entries from four countries in the Comedy category during the final round. Barcelona, who has been a judge for the International Emmys for 15 years, was a judge in the finals of the Drama Category in this year’s Emmys. In charge of the worldwide distribution of GMA’s drama and entertainment programs, Barcelona paved the way for the network to be recognized as the primary source of Filipino content in over 26 countries and four continents. The Emmys also recognized the expertise of multiawarded GMA News anchor Jessica Soho, who was tapped to be part of the Emmys’ First Round Jurors. A two-time recipient of the highly prestigious George Foster Peabody Award, Soho hosts the network’s top-rating and trending

JOSE MARI R. ABACAN

program Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho. Earlier this year, both Flores and Soho were named to the 2021 New York Festivals TV and Film Awards Grand Jury together with GMA first vice president for public affairs Nessa

Valdellon. Over the years, Flores has been regularly invited to join the Grand Jury. She has been a longtime member of NYF’s Advisory Board, as well. As head of GMA’s Public Affairs, Valdellon led the organization that produced some of the country’s most groundbreaking and compelling public affairs programs and specials. She was at the helm of GMA News TV’s launch in 2011, which was rebranded to GTV this year. Aside from judging for NYF Awards for TV, Valdellon has been invited as well as to evaluate entries in Asian Academy Awards (AAAs). The international award-giving body recognizes programs and personalities that excel in representing and promoting Asian content and creativity. Valdellon in now on her third year as juror for the AAA’s. Flores, Valdellon, and Soho joined award-winning directors, producers, writers, actors, and other creative media professionals from across the globe during this year’s NYF Awards. Meanwhile, The World Between Us director Dominic Zapata and GMA Entertainment Group head writer John Roque were likewise part of the International Emmy Awards’ First Round and Semi-Finals Jurors, respectively. The International Emmy Awards is an annual event organized by the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, while the New York Festivals TV and Film Awards competition recognizes TV programs and films from all over 50 countries.

New theaters, exclusive screenings, new ways to watch movies aFTer nearly two years of being shut down because of the global pandemic, sM Cinema (www.smcinema.com) reopens its doors to movie enthusiasts with new cinemas, exclusive screenings, and new ways to watch movies. selected cinemas have been opened around the country since november 17, along with a new Cineplex at the newly opened sM City Grand Central. sM Cinema Grand Central houses four state-of-the-art cinemas and two director’s Clubs that offer a premium movie experience, leather recliners, and a crystalclear laser projection system. Missing those prepandemic blockbusters? Eternals, Black Widow, Venom: Let There Be Carnage, Resident Evil: Welcome to Racoon City, and No Time to Die are just some of the movies

waiting for cinephiles at sM Cinemas. sM Cinema also has exclusives that will delight K-Pop fans. Blackpink, The Movie celebrates the 5th anniversary of the beloved K-pop girl group. it is also a special gift for bLinKs—blackpink’s beloved fandom— to revisit old memories, and enjoy their performances. and of course, Filipino film enthusiasts will love Encanto and Kunwari Mahal Kita, and the Metro Manila Film Festival will run from december 25 to January 7, 2022, with more Filipino movies to enjoy. Moviegoers can also book an entire theater for a change. Get your own exclusive movie space with the current movies you like. reserve an exclusive cinema perfect

for a private movie screening by treating family and friends to a truly movie theater experience. as it reopens, sM remains committed to the safety and wellbeing of mallgoers, with all sM Cinemas certified safe with safety seals awarded by its local government. in partnership with Hygieia innovations and Technology inc., the theater chain has installed MerV filters and air purifiers to ensure safe and clean cinema for everyone. a health and safety officer will be present for every screening while movie theaters will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized regularly. sM Cinema employees are fully vaccinated and will be at your service in full PPe gear.

FROM left: Sylvain Delange and Vic del Rosario

B6 Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Nurture creativity by doubling your child’s immunity

Discovery Suites offers bountiful feasts with ‘Home for Christmas Holiday’ favorite wine. Our grazing boxes make for delightful picnics or perfect gifts for friends and loved ones. Rates start at PHP 1,000 nett and available for preorder two (2) days before the pick-up/ delivery date.

Holiday Appreciation Boxes

LET your friends and colleagues know that you truly care. Surprise them with a special 3-course meal perfect for team building, meetings and virtual Christmas parties. Each Holiday Appreciation Box includes a salad, specialty rice bowl and dessert. Rates start at PHP 1,100 nett per box. Preorder at least two (2) days before the pick-up or delivery date.

ISCOVERY Suites, one of the Top 30 Hotels in Asia: Readers' Choice Awards 2021 by Conde Nast Traveler, is giving hotel patrons more reasons to celebrate small triumphs and new beginnings with its theme, “Home for Christmas,” highlighting heartfelt Filipino service and bountiful feasts that feel like home. As the holidays draw near, make Discovery Suites a part of your holiday merry-making with sumptuous feasts and thoughtful gifts that can make the season worth remembering.

Festive Dining at 22 Prime (Set Menu for Dine-in and Takeaway)

TREAT your loved ones to an exquisite dining experience at one of top steakhouses in the metro. Feast on a delightful holiday set menu curated to satisfy your cravings for top notch gastronomic experiences for your senses. Our set menus start at PHP 1,300 nett per person that includes Clam Chowder, Lemon Garlic Chicken Supreme and Strawberry Cheesecake. Available for dine-in and takeaway.

Holiday Feast (Platter)

CELEBRATE the season in the safety and comfort of home with a bountiful feast. Leave the holiday preparations to us as we bring platter-style selections straight from our kitchen to your dining tables.

Choose from four (4) set menus starting at PHP 3,550 nett for six (6) delectable holiday dishes that serve 4-6 persons. Our Roasted Beef with Mushroom Sauce, Seafood Paella, and Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Sauce are must-try. Available for pick-up and delivery. All set menus can be ordered in platters good for groups of 8-10 persons. Make holiday brunches, lunches and dinners a little extra with 22 Prime’s Signature Steak Platter - USDA Rib Eye, Wagyu Hanger Steak, and Striploin, Turkey Roulade, Prawns Thermidor and Festive Dessert Platter good for 4-6 persons. It's a bountiful Christmas feast you can’t resist. Pre-order this premium set for only PHP 9,400 nett.

Holiday Hampers and Gift Boxes A BOX of gourmet treats for a perfect Christmas gift! This year, each gift box comes with sweet discoveries and savory items for all occasions. Choose your combination of freshly baked goodies and Discovery Suites’ well-loved homemade sauces. Holiday hampers are priced from Php 1,200 nett and above depending on the product combination of your choice. Orders should be placed at least two (2) days before pick-up or delivery date. .GRAZE by Discovery Suites is a party in a box.Cherish the holidays with laidback evening conversations with delectable charcuterie selections to accompany your

Gift of Discovery

Power USA cited the 2022 Hyundai Accent as Best in Resale Value for 2022 in the subcompact category; the 2022 Hyundai Kona in the Micro Utility category; and the 2022 Hyundai Kona EV in the mass-market electric category. According to JD Power USA, these models topped their respective segments for providing owners that sought-after peace of mind with their new vehicle purchase. Locally, the Hyundai Accent remains Hyundai’s top-selling passenger sedan for its outstanding fuel efficiency, while the Hyundai Tucson is the best-loved Hyundai SUV for its sensible balance of power, sporty style, and drivability. The multi-awarded Hyundai Kona has been making waves for its head-turning looks and beastly performance on long drives. While the Hyundai IONIQ is one of the first electric vehicles introduced to the Philippine market. Meanwhile, Top Gear UK hailed Hyundai Motor Company (HMC)

toys and art materials. Just the feeling of “going into my nook” can spark their imagination and encourage creativity. Allot time for unstructured play. This is because creativity often sparks and doubles when children have quiet time alone. Creativity needs room to breathe. Maybe twice a week let the kids dump a box of random toys and play with them, or maybe play a different album from a completely different genre than they’re used to, or read a book that’s not their usual go-to. Let the kids express what's on their mind and never shoot down their ideas. Still, the most important aspect of nurturing your child's gift is keeping them healthy so they have the strength and energy to focus on being creative. Give your child a daily glass of the new and best-ever* Promil® Four NutriGift System™. It now has the NutriGift System™ with MOS+ (Milk Oligosaccharides). It helps support growth by improving calcium absorption. The new reformulation contains 4x higher DHA levels contributing to overall brain growth or mental development plus 37 other mind and body nutrients, like Selenium, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D and more.

GIFTS don’t always come in boxes. Sometimes, it’s in a nicely sealed envelope, or better yet, a special email in this digital era. Give the gift of experience with special room vouchers for your loved ones.Aside from more than 50% savings, guests can use the vouchers for stays until December 30, 2022. “It’s been a challenging year for the whole world. For us, it has always been our culture of resilience, bayanihan, and hospitality that helped us come through strong and wiser. This is why as we mark yet another year-end, we at Discovery Suites wish you and your family a joyous and wonderful Christmas. Here’s to all of us -- the ones we love, the ones we lost but forever in our hearts, the ones who selflessly stand in the front lines. And most of all, here’s to better days ahead,” says General Manager, Janice Tiambeng.

Christma Eve and New Year’s Eve Dinner

GET your appetite ready for Steak Out’s holiday edition! We are offering more choices and more value for money with the addition of salmon, turkey, ham, sides and other holiday staples to our unlimited menu selection. Book a table on or before December 20, 2021 to get the Early Bird Discount of 15%. Regular rate is Php 2,800 nett per person. Limited seats available.

Hyundai scoops global acccolade

YUNDAI is finishing the year with a bang, grabbing top honors in consumer satisfaction across the globe. Said Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo, “These new honors cement Hyundai’s clout as a global automotive leader. They highlight the progress and relentless work of Hyundai Motor Company to be a leader in smart mobility for all. We join the entire Hyundai global community in celebrating this.” The Hyundai Accent ranked best small car in the JD Power USA 2021 Initial Quality Study. The study, now on its 35th year, is based on the responses of 110,827 new car owners to a 223-point questionnaire on vehicle safety, driving experience, dealership experience, and resale value. The same study saw the Hyundai Tucson finishing second in its segment. In addition, ALG, a division of JD

VERY child is born with a gift, and it's the task of every parent to nurture this gift and help the child reach their full potential. An important but sometimes overlooked way to help your child nurture the gift is to ensure they don’t get sick, and this requires giving their immunity a boost. Fewer sick days means more opportunities to rehearse dance moves, practice brush strokes, or master their scales. Maximize your home environment to increase opportunities for creativity. Dust off old clothes and turn them into costumes, use old blankets as theater curtains, and stuffed toys forgotten inside the toy box can be their audience. Delivery boxes can become pets, hideouts, getaway cars, and more. Have plenty of paint, pens, and craft items accessible to your child. Playing with everyday things you find at home helps not just to support their natural gifts, but also adds a dash of creativity and helps them realize that anything can be repurposed. Create creative nooks at home: in your child's bedroom, in the living room, and even in the dining room if possible. If you have yard space, let your child take out their

Manufacturer of the Year at its annual awards held on November 30, 2021, in Offenbach, Germany. HMC was recognized for its breadth in producing a “diverse cast of characters” across its model lineup. The Hyundai i20 N was crowned overall Car of the Year 2021, topping 25 contender brands and bagged the subaward of Performance Car of the Year. Jack Rix, editor of Top Gear, said, “You don't win the top prize in our annual Awards without proving your all-round brilliance. Having shone on British racetracks and B-roads, we decided to throw it in at the deep end to prove its greatness, with an adventure across the Australian outback…. A little Hyundai hatchback that did so well, so far out of its comfort zone.… it was impossible to do anything but make it our overall Car of the Year.” For further information, visit www. hyundai.ph and www.facebook.com/ HyundaiPH.

DOLE@88 Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III (left) and Undersecretary Renato L. Ebarle, are among the first customers of the DOLE 88th anniversary bazaar. With the theme “@88: Tuloy-Tuloy na pagTUPAD sa serbisyong tapat!”,this year’s celebration is highlighted by week-long activities in honor of the hard work and dedication of DOLE employees. The livelihood bazaar and the hybrid job fair are among the activities that jump started the week-long celebration, held at the DOLE central office in Intramuros, Manila.on Decenber 6, 2021.(Photo by Dodong Echavez/IPS)

CSC chief addresses civil servants in year-end message

N a year-end message to civil servants, Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairperson Alicia dela Rosa-Bala highlighted the sacrifices of civil servants amid the pandemic and thanked them for their service. She said that civil servants continued to face challenges this year. “Nananatili ang epekto ng pandemya habang patuloy na umaasa ang taumbayan sa ating serbisyo. Marami din ang sakripisyo ng serbisyo sibil—hindi natin makakalimutan ang lahat ng ating kasamahan, ang mga nag-alay ng buhay para sa bayan.” She added that these challenges in the midst of adversity can be a source of strength as they carry on. “Lalo lamang tayong mapapalakas ng ganitong mga

karanasan, kaya patuloy tayong maghahanda para sa mga hinaharap pang mga sitwasyon.” Chairperson Bala also expressed gratitude for the blessings received amid the public health crisis. “Tayo rin ay nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng biyayang ating natanggap sa kabila ng krisis. Isa na rito ang ating kalusugan… Kaya manatiling malusog at masigla bilang malasakit sa sarili at sa kapwa, hanggang magwakas itong pandemya.” Lastly, the CSC chief thanked civil servants for their continued commitment to public service. “Taos-pusong pasasalamat sa bawat kawani ng pamahalaan sa inyong paglilingkod sa bayan. Sama-sama tayong umasa sa matagumpay na bagong taon, at patuloy na pag-unlad ng serbisyo publiko.”

Enjoy the holiday with Subway’s Mint Choco Chips

PREAD a little holiday cheer with Subway®'s New and festive Mint Choco Chip Cookies! Get five (5) delicious treats for only Php 125 until January 18, 2022.

The Mint Choco Chips Cookies come in a festive Christmas Cookie Box. It includes a blank message card on which you can write your own seasonal greetings for family, friends, coworkers, and loved ones. The cookies are also sold in 1-pc for only Php 35, 3-pcs for only Php 85, 6-pcs for only Php 175, and 12-pcs Php

350. Purchases of 3’s, 6’s or 12’s can be mixed with other cookie flavors. This exclusive offer is valid for dine-in and takeout transactions only. Not available for delivery. Order now and send a short and thoughtful message along with some delectable dessert that will undoubtedly make the recipient smile.

www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Angel R. Calso

The World

Inflation is painfully high, but relief may be coming

EW YORK—Inflation is painfully high, but this hopefully is close to as bad as it gets. Consumer prices rose 6.8 percent for the 12 months ending in November, a 39-year high. Many economists expect inflation to remain near this level a few more months but to then moderate through 2022 for a variety of reasons. And they don’t see a repeat of the 1970s or early 1980s, when inflation ran above 10 percent for frighteningly long stretches. Households could even see relief in some areas within weeks. Prices have dropped on global markets for crude oil and natural gas, which is filtering into lower prices at the pump and for home heating. That should keep inflation somewhat in check, even if prices keep rising elsewhere in the economy. To be sure, economists say inflation will likely stay higher than it was before the pandemic, even after it eases through 2022. More often than not in the last 10 years, inflation was below 2 percent, and it even scraped below zero during parts of 2015. The bigger danger then was too-low inflation, which can also lead to a weak economy. “This is not going to be an easy fix,” said Nela Richardson, chief economist at ADP. “Just because inflation will eventually moderate doesn’t mean that prices are going to go down. They’re up. We’re just lowering the rate of change, not the level of prices.” Russell Price, chief economist at Ameriprise, expects inflation to peak at 7.1 percent in December and January, for example. After that, he expects the inflation rate to fall toward 4 percent by the summer and below 3 percent by the end of the year, but to stay above 2 percent through 2023. One reason for the moderation, he said, is improving supply chains. They had become ensnarled when the global economy suddenly returned to life following its brief shutdown, and economists hope increasing availability of everything from computer chips to shipping containers will help inflation to ease. “It’s in no one’s interests to have the supply chain as disruptive as it has been,” Price said. Then there’s the Federal Reserve. Wall Street expects the Fed to say this upcoming week that it will accelerate its exit from a monthly bond-buying program meant to support the economy. That would open the door for it to begin raising short-term interest rates. Both the bond buying and low rates are intended to spur borrowing, which gets people and companies to buy more things. That can help drive inflation higher, as demand outstrips supply. The US government will also potentially offer less aid to households in 2022, whether that’s through child tax credit payments or beefed-up unemployment benefits. That could also lead to fewer purchases by Americans, further lessening the pressure on inflation. Most immediately, Americans should see swings in inflation via energy costs. A gallon of regular gasoline has fallen about 2.4 percent over the last month, to a little less than $3.35 per gallon on Friday, according to A A A. That’s progress, though drivers are still paying far higher prices than last year, when a gallon of regular was only $2.16. The US Energy Information Administration forecasts gasoline will drop again to an average of $3.13 in December and to $2.88 for all of 2022 after averaging $3.39 last month, the highest since 2014. “That should provide some relief for consumers when they go to fill up their tanks. Now how much relief? That’s really hard to tell,” said Andrew Gross, spokesman for A A A. “It’s really hard to gauge what sort of world events are happening. And it really doesn’t take much to spike oil prices.” Oil prices have dropped for a number of reasons. On one side, nations have made agreements to boost oil supplies. On the other, the Omicron variant of the coronavirus dented expectations for demand on worries it would cause lockdowns and canceled travel. Benchmark US crude oil has fallen nearly 15 percent since the start of November. Home heating costs are also likely to be lower than projected, although bills will still likely be higher than last year, as prices for natural gas fall with other fuels on global markets. The average cost to heat a home this winter will be an estimated $972, according to Mark Wolfe, executive director of the National Energy Assistance Directors Association. That’s less than the $1,056 his group was projecting in October, but still higher than the $888 consumers paid to heat their homes last year. “This is a consumer beware situation,” Wolfe said. “Don’t get your hopes up that prices are going to come down to last year’s levels.” Perhaps the biggest wildcard in where inflation is heading is what happens with workers’ wages. Workers across the country are fighting for higher pay. Deere & Co. employees recently won a deal that will deliver 10 percent raises immediately, for example. Usually, companies will try to pass such increases along to their customers through higher prices. And with the unemployment rate low and companies chasing after workers—there were nearly 1.5 job openings at the end of October for every person on unemployment—the pressure may be building for faster wage gains. On top of that is whether the spike already seen in inflation will scare US households into speeding up purchases to get ahead of any further price increases. That could create its own feedback loop, driving prices higher. “We’ve seen a real awareness on Main Street that prices have gone up,” ADP’s Richardson said. “It’s a concern because when you’re battling inflation on multiple fronts—it’s not just the supply chain, it’s not just the labor market shortages, but now you’ve got the consumer who’s in the mix—it just increases the difficulty in bringing inflation under control.” AP

BusinessMirror

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Boris Johnson: UK faces ‘tidal wave’ of Omicron infections

ONDON—Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned Sunday that Britain faces a “tidal wave” of infections from the Omicron coronavirus variant, and announced a huge increase in booster vaccinations to strengthen defenses against it. In a televised statement, Johnson said everyone age 18 and older will be offered a third shot of vaccine by the end of this month in response to the Omicron “emergency.” The previous target was the end of January. He said cases of the highly transmissible variant are doubling every two to three days in Britain, and “there is a tidal wave of Omicron coming.” “And I’m afraid it is now clear that two doses of vaccine are simply not enough to give the level of protection we all need,” Johnson said. “But the good news is that our scientists are confident that with a third dose—a booster dose—we can all bring our level of protection back up.” He announced a “national mission” to deliver booster vaccines, with pop-up vaccination centers and seven-day-a-week getting extra support from teams of military planners and thousands of volunteer vaccinators. Johnson’s December 31 target applies to England. The other

parts of the UK—Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland—are also expected to speed up their vaccination campaigns. The UK Health Security Agency says existing vaccines appear less effective in preventing symptomatic infections in people exposed to Omicron, though preliminary data show that effectiveness appears to rise to between 70 percent and 75 percent after a third vaccine dose. More t h a n 8 0 p e rce nt of people age 12 and up in Britain have received two doses of vaccine, and 40 percent of adults have had three doses. Giving the rest a booster in the next three weeks will be a huge challenge, requiring almost 1 million doses delivered a day. Johnson acknowledged that many routine medical procedures would have to be postponed to meet the goal. Johnson’s announcement came hours after the government raised the country’s official coronavirus threat level, warning the rapid spread of the Omicron variant had pushed the UK into risky territory.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson records an address to the nation at Downing Street, London, to provide an update on the booster vaccine program on December 12. Kirsty O’Connor, Pool via AP

The chief medical officers of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland said the highly transmissible new strain “adds additional and rapidly increasing risk to the public and health care services” at a time when Covid-19 is already widespread. They recommended raising the alert level from 3 to 4 on a 5-point scale. The top level, 5, indicates authorities think the health care system is about to be overwhelmed. The doctors said early evidence shows Omicron is spreading much faster than the currently dominant Delta variant, and that vaccines offer less protection against it. British officials say Omicron is likely to replace Delta as the dominant strain in the UK within days. “Data on severity will become clearer over the coming weeks but hospitalizations from Omicron

are already occurring and these are likely to increase rapidly,” they said. Concerns about the new variant led Johnson’s Conservative government to reintroduce restrictions that were lifted almost six months ago. Masks must be worn in most indoor settings, Covid-19 certificates must be shown to enter nightclubs and people are being urged to work from home if possible. Many scientists say that’s unlikely to be enough, however, and are calling for tougher measures, which the government so far has resisted. Scientists in South Africa, where Omicron was first identified, say they see signs it may cause less severe disease than Delta, but caution that it is too soon to be certain. AP

South Africa president tests positive for Covid

outh African President Cy r i l R amaphosa tested positive for Covid-19 and is receiving treatment for mild symptoms. “The president, who is fully vaccinated, is in self-isolation in Cape Town and has delegated all responsibilities to Deputy President David Mabuza for the next week,” the presidency said in a statement on Sunday. “The president is in good spirits but is being monitored by the South African Military Health Service of the South African National Defense Force.” R amaphosa, 69, was vaccinated against coronavirus with the single-dose Johnson & John-

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is receiving treatment for mild Covid symptoms.Bloomberg photo

son inoculation in February. The presidency didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment on whether he has received a booster shot.

South Africa is in the midst of a fourth wave of coronavirus infections fueled by the Omicron variant. Health authorities on Sunday recorded 18,035 new cases of the illness that has killed more than 90,000 people in the country. The president this month traveled to West Africa, where he held talks with Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara and Senegalese President Macky Sall. Ramaphosa was tested for Covid-19 in all of the countries he visited, and returned to South Africa on December 8 after ob-

taining negative test results, the presidency said. “ T he president also tested negative on his return to Johannesburg” on December 8, it said. Earlier on Sunday, Ramaphosa spoke at a memorial service for former apartheid-era President F.W. de Klerk, who died last month. The proceedings were “undertaken in compliance with health regulations pertaining to hand hygiene, the wearing of face masks and social distancing.” The presidency urged anyone who had contact with Ramaphosa on Sunday to watch for symptoms or to have themselves tested. Bloomberg News

Australia to buy South Korean weapons in defense-tie boost

ustralia agreed to buy K 9 T hu nder a r t i l ler y from South Korea and increase ties between their defense industries as the nations cemented a new comprehensive security partnership amid increasing tensions with China. The countries also pledged to boost critical minerals and c le a n - e ne rg y t r ade i n pac t s signed by President Moon Jaein and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in Canberra on Monday. It was the first visit by an international leader to the nation since it started reopening its border this month. “We share a view about the role of liberal democracies in today’s world and particularly in the Indo-Pacific,” Morrison told reporters after signing the four pacts. “We understand how important it is for the rule of law, for multilateral organizations that are based on a world

order that favors freedom, that countries in our own region can have choices, choices in their economy, choices for their peace and security.” The K9 Thunder is a self-propelled 155mm howitzer, manufactured by Hanwha Defense of South Korea and the contract is worth A$1 billion ($716 million). The weapon has also been sold to six other countries including India and Turkey. Moon said he and Morrison agreed to work together to boost regional peace and stability. But the two nations are taking different paths when it comes to the Beijing Winter Olympics, with Australia backing the USled diplomatic boycott of the games. Moon said South Korea was not considering a similar move against China, its biggest trading partner. The talks come as Morrison seeks stronger security ties with

“like-minded democracies” to act as a counter to what he sees as China’s increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific. Beijing was angered by Australia’s pact with the US and UK announced in September to help build a new fleet of nuclear submarines, saying the new partnership would stoke an “arms race” in the region. Australia’s ties with Beijing have deteriorated dramatically, with China imposing a range of trade reprisals on the nation in the wake of calls by Morrison’s government last year to send independent investigators into Wuhan to probe the origins of the coronavirus pandemic. South Korea has been worried about Chinese naval activity near its islands in the Yellow Sea, also known as the West Sea on the Korean Peninsula. The moves could indicate that Beijing is also worried about a scenario in which the US imposes a blockade close

to its shores. While South Korea was Australia’s fourth-largest trading partner in 2020, worth A$34.9 billion ($25 billion), coal and natural gas make up more than a third of its exports to the Asian nation. The terms of that trading relationship will need to change as both nations pledged to cut carbon emissions in coming decades. Morrison is seeking to establish a green hydrogen export market. He’s also inked initial deals with the US to develop a critical minerals industry, with the metals used in clean-energy technology such as battery storage in high demand in a market dominated by China. Moon’s v isit to Aust ra l i a, which includes a trip to Sydney on Tuesday for meetings with political leaders, coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties being established between the nations. Bloomberg News

Sports

IM Quizon draws De Guzman, keeps nationals solo lead

BusinessMirror

NTERNATIONAL Master (IM) Daniel Quizon opted to play it safe and drew with veteran IM Ricky de Guzman in only 23 moves of a Queen’s Gambit Declined to remain on top after eight rounds of the Philippine National Chess Championship at the Solea Hotel and Resort in Mactan, Cebu, on Monday. Less than a day after escaping with a draw from a hopeless losing position to unrated Allan Pason, Quizon played a little timid and cautiously forced his way to a standoff with de Guzman to keep his grip of the lead with 7.0 points. It kept the World Cup veteran unflappable at No. 1 with a 1.5-point lead over No. 2 IM Ronald Dableo, who also ended up with a draw against IM Jan Emmanuel Garcia in 31 moves of a King’s Indian encounter. Dableo supplanted de Guzman at No. 2 after stunning top seed IM Paulo Bersamina with a masterful 30-move triumph of a King’s Indian Attack in the seventh round Sunday. The GM candidate and University of Santo Tomas coach scored 3.5 points in the last four rounds after drawing his first four outings to pile up a total of 5.5 points. And while he still trails Quizon by 1.5 points, Dableo has a legitimate title chance since they would only tackle each other in the 11th and last round Tuesday in this 12-player event backed by National Chess Federation of the Philippines president Prospero “Butch” Pichay, Philippine Sports Commission chairman William “Butch” Ramirez, Philippine Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Chess Movement Inc. chairman Dr. Ariel Potot and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office vice chairman and general manager Royina Garma and Atty Roel Canobas. At joint third with 5.0 points apiece were De Guzman and Grandmaster Darwin Laylo. Laylo caught up with De Guzman after a 36-move win over Pason of a Queen’s Gambit duel for the round’s lone win. The rest were draws between GM Joey Antonio and IM Joel Pimentel, Woman GM Janelle Mae Frayna and IM Michael Concio Jr. and Bersamina and IM John Marvin Miciano. The winner pockets the champion’s purse of P80,000 and a berth to the Hanoi Southeast Asian Games next year and 2023 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Bangkok and Chonburi, Thailand.

CHED Oks training for UAAP, NCAA

CHOOL sports returns amid the waning Covid-19 pandemic after the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) announced on Monday that fully vaccinated student athletes could go back to training—and no longer in a bubble environment. CHED Chairman Prospero de Vera III said 18 schools in Metro Manila—from the University Athletic Association of the Philippines and National Collegiate Athletic Association—could now reactivate their varsity squads whose training were shuttered for 20 months. “Before, bubble training was essential, but now, they can train without a bubble setup,” De Vera said. “Student-athletes can return now because most of them are now fully-vaccinated.” De Vera and Health Secretary Francisco Duque III inspected NCAA school Emilio Aguinaldo College’s gym on Monday and held a memorandum signing ceremony that approved the return of school sports. The next step, according to de Vera, is for a technical working group to work on the return of collegiate competitions. Both UA AP and NCA A are hoping to start their seasons in March 2022. Claudeth Mocon-Coriaco

| Tuesday, December 14, 2021 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

DONAIRE WANTS ‘THE MONSTER’ By Josef Ramos

NONITO “THE FILIPINO FLASH” DONAIRE JR. celebrates on the ring with his kids Jarel and Jarel Logan. COURTESY PBC

UNIFICATION fight with Japanese sensation Naoya Inoue is now tops in Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire Jr.’s mind after proving that his 39-year-old body still packs power and impact. “It’s my team’s job to work on the rematch with Naoya Inoue,” said Donaire moments after his fourth-round knockout victory against erstwhile unbeaten compatriot Reymart Gaballo on Sunday in Carson City, California. “I believe my team is going to make it happen,” he said. “I’m able to keep fighting at this age because I just have faith in myself and a lifestyle that’s good for me.” “There is no such thing as a cheat day. It’s a choice day and it’s my choice to train and to be me,” added Donaire, who kept his World Boxing Council (WBC) bantamweight title with that convincing win over Gaballo. Donaire and Inoue—called “The Monster” for his vicious record of 21 straight pro victories with 18 knockouts—already met in November 2019 with the Japanese winning by unanimous decision. Describe as the best boxer so far to come out of Asia after the legendary Manny Pacquiao, Inoue fights Thailand’s Aran Dipaen (12-2 record with 11 knockouts) on

ARWIND SANTOS is short of getting fed up after NorthPort goes 0-3, the last against his former team San Miguel Beer on Sunday.

Santos wants new teammates to keep focus at crunch time

Tuesday in Tokyo. It will be Inoue’s third defense of his International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Association bantamweight belts after beating Filipino Michael Dasmariñas last June 19 and Australian Jason Moloney in October 31, 2020, both by knockouts in the US. The oldest bantamweight world champion with a 42-6 record (28 knockouts), Donaire wanted Inoue’s scalp anytime and anywhere next year. Donaire’s father, Nonito “Dodong” Sr., said his son looks prime for

HE Athletics Stadium in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac, received the Highly Commended recognition from the World Architecture Festival (WAF) in the Completed Buildings-Sport Category, cementing its status as one of the world’s best architectural structures in recent years. Atty. Aristotle Batuhan, officer-in-charge of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority’s (BCDA) Office of the President and CEO, expressed elation over the award and congratulated its architectural consultant Budji+Royal Architecture+Design, development partner MTD Philippines Inc., and the hundreds of Filipino workers who worked tirelessly to construct the stadium. “This recognition from internationally acclaimed jurors of the most prestigious architectural festival is affirmation that New Clark City’s Athletics Stadium is not only a state-of-the art sports facility, but a work of art,” Batuhan said. “The modern sustainable design, natural surroundings and inspiration from Central Luzon’s heritage all came together in constructing a stadium that is truly unique, and truly Filipino.”

another showdown with Inoue. “It’s going to be Inoue and Nonito,” the elder Donaire said. “I don’t see any reason why that fight won’t happen.” “Nonito is fine and wasn’t hurt, so I think he can return to training anytime he likes after a few weeks of rest,” added Donaire Sr., who was the four-division’s cutman in Sunday’s fight. Donaire Sr. praised his son’s wife Rachel for keeping the world champion in top fighting condition. “I credit Rachel for that, they did a great job,” Donaire Sr. said. “Nonito’s physique looks great.”

NCC Athletics Stadium receives WAF ‘Highly Commended’ nod

OSING three straight isn’t what veteran Arwind Santos wanted as a brand new Batang Pier at NorthPort. “It’s time to learn from those failures so enough is enough,” Santos told BusinessMirror on Monday, a day after he scored 23 points, grabbed 11 rebounds and made two steals in a losing effort to San Miguel, his team for 12 seasons, on Sunday. “I hope that defeat to San Miguel Beer’s our last and finally get our first victory.” The Batang Pier aren’t starting on the right foot, having lost to Alaska (85-87) and NLEX (115-120) I a week’s span. Santos, who’s expected to contaminate his new teammates with his veteran smarts, wanted the Batang Pier to develop a fiercer “killer instinct.” He said it’s time for them, particularly Robert Bolick, to learn when and where to attack and not to give up the fight and learn from those bitter failures. “I told him [Bolick] that he has the talent, ability and the skills. All

THE New Clark City’s Athletics Stadium is not only a state-of-the art sports facility, but a work of art.

‘Do Bronx’ does it again

Wild chase for year-end ladies golf tour title on at Midlands

HE Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT) concludes its five-stage swing spread over two months in its third restart back in Tagaytay starting Tuesday with the compact field gearing up for another punishing week given the wind condition at Midlands. That makes the International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI) Midlands Ladies Classic doubly

he needs is the killer instinct when and where to finish his rivals,” Santos said. “He must know how to score with a higher percentage at times.” “But I cannot blame him if he takes those shots because I know he’s done those before,” Santos said. Santos stressed he’s no fan of new generation stars like Golden State’s Stephen Curry or Brooklyn’s James Harden who love to take a shot from mid-court in crunch time. “I always look up to the great Michael Jordan whose perimeter shots gave him a lot of winning and championship moments during his era,” he said. “He [Bolick] should remember that everybody’s watching him and understand basketball, so he must know what’s the best decision to make at crucial times,” Santos said. “And this is not only for Robert but also for the rest of the team.” Santos, 40, and the Batang Pier will be up against the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel Gin Kings on Friday at the Araneta Coliseum. Josef Ramos

interesting with Harmie Constantino gunning for a third championship in her maiden pro campaign, and Sunshine Baraquiel, Chanelle Avaricio and Daniella Uy setting out for a follow-up to their breakthrough wins at Highlands, Couples and Langer courses, respectively. Constantino, who swept the two Eagle Ridge-Aoki legs in March and last month but got thwarted at Highlands and Riviera, has opted to tone down expectations, expressing her concerns more on learning and making the most of the chances in the next three days of the P750,000 championship held under the bubble setup.

“I have no expectations. But it’s been fun getting to play competitively and honestly, there’s been a lot of lessons to learn so I’m just hoping to play well and enjoy the last tournament of the year,” said Constantino, who has flourished in her first crack the pro circuit, humbling Princess Superal no less at Aoki last March and edging amateur Mafy Singson by one last month. Baraquiel, on the other hand, hopes to sweep the Tagaytay legs of the circuit put up by ICTSI after ruling the Highlands stop and realizing a dream win the way Avaricio and Uy did at the Couples and Langer courses, respectively.

HARMIE CONSTANTINO is gunning for a third championship in her maiden pro campaign.

STYLES make fights not only in boxing, but also in MMA. Dustin Poirier is known more for his striking and still UFC lightweight champion of the world, and Charles Oliveira is known more for his grappling and jiujitsu and both went at it on Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena with Oliveira emerging winner via rear naked choke at one minute and two seconds left in the third round to successfully defending his lightweight strap. Reportedly, Oliveira will next fight the human highlight reel of the UFC, Justin Gaethje, sometime next year. After the fight, a very gracious Dustin Poirier offered to donate $20,000 to Charles Oliveira’s favorite charity. The gesture speaks volumes about the kind of human being the “Diamond” from Louisiana is. Justin Gaethje offered his congratulations to Oliveira after the fight to perhaps, sort of, kind of, jumpstart promotions of their fight which will probably be scheduled for next year. With the win, according to ESPN.com, “A native of Brazil, Oliveira has the most finishes (18) and most submission wins (15) in UFC history. He has a 20-8 (1 NC) record in the UFC going back to his debut in 2010 and is one of only nine fighters in history to win 20 UFC fights.” Poirier himself is no pansy, being the lightweight with the most number of KO and TKO wins at eight. Going into the fight against Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, may want to work on his stand up, maybe incorporate some boxing into his repertoire and some head movement to add to his UFC best ground game which, in my opinion, is second to none in MMA.