HO CHI MINH CITY OPENS FIRST METRO LINE AFTER YRS OF DELAY
www.businessmirror.com.ph
THE Philippine government signed over $6 billion worth of Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans and grants this year, according to the Department of Finance (DOF).
I n a statement on Monday, DOF said it signed 12 loan financing agreements amounting to $5.67 billion or P333.42 billion. These funds are intended to finance projects in infrastructure, transport, defense, digital technology, health, and agriculture.
Th e DOF has also secured $73.73 million or P4.34 billion worth of grants from bilateral and development partners for
13 projects in infrastructure, peace and development, climate adaptation and mitigation, water security, and ArtificialIntelligence (AI)-based systems in agriculture, among others.
The Department of Finance takes the responsibility over our people’s money very seriously. Because every peso that the Filipinos entrust to us is a symbol of the millions of dreams, sacrifices and hopes of our people,” Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said, partly in Filipino.
“ That is why we make sure that we enter into partnerships
with very trusted partners and that the terms of our agreements are very concessional and costeffective so we can deliver more projects that create lasting impact for generations,” he added.
For the loans, the financing agreement includes the third tranche of financing for the Metro Manila Subway Project (Phase 1), which is the country’s first-ever underground railway system.
A lso signed were the loan agreements for the Dalton Pass East Alignment Alternative Road Project; the first tranche of the financing for the Bataan-Cavite Interlink Bridge Project; Samar
Pacific Coastal Road II Project; the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network Project; the New Dumaguete Airport Development Project; the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phase III; and Infrastructure for Safer and Resilient Schools Project. Th e DOF also signed the financing for the Philippines’ First and Second Digital Transformation Program, Second Sustainable Recovery Program; the Build Universal Health Care (UHC) Program, Subprogram 2; the Value Chain Innovation for See “PHL,” A2
DEBT SERVICE BURDEN UP 16.8% IN 9 MONTHS
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE country’s debt service burden (DSB) increased 16.82 percent in the January to September 2024 period, according to the latest data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
NGCP, ERC FACE HOUSE PROBE OVER DELAYS, BILLING ISSUES
THE National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) came under scrutiny as the House Committee on Legislative Franchises investigated franchise compliance, project delays and practices burdening consumers.
Per the report of Energy Undersecretary Sharon Garin, out of 111 approved projects under the third regulatory period, 77 were delayed and 27 remain unfinished. For instance, the Hermosa-San Jose transmission line was rescheduled
See “Debt,” A2
By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla
ALACAÑANG said Monday President Ferdinand Marcos
eight times, which disrupted power supply and increased costs for consumers.
ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta, meanwhile, admitted to a regulatory gap after failing to finalize the fourth regulatory reset on schedule. At the House hearing, Dimalanta confirmed that “there were no rules after the third regulatory period had lapsed.” Originally intended for 2016 to 2020, the period was extended to 2022. Dimalanta acknowledged that “paglampas
See “NGCP,” A2
The January to March 2024 hearings of the House on senior and PWD discounts remains one of its most productive undertakings ever. We obtained at least P112 billion in benefits for these sectors, without even changing any laws yet. The removal of the booklet requirement is one of its major accomplishments.”
“ It was Speaker Romualdez’s idea to bring the committees together and make things right for seniors and persons with disabilities.”
“ Those hearings accomplished so much. We were able to get Starbucks to do a 40-percent discount to compensate for misapplication of the standard discount. We got Grab and Angkas to improve ease of access to SC [senior citizens] and PWD discounts. We got Meralco [Manila Electric Company] to make applying for the discount on electric bills easier. We got PhilHealth to expand benefits packages for PWDs. We got senior eligibility for TUPAD.”
“ We got DTI [Department of Trade and Industry], DA [Department of Agriculture], and DOE [Department of Energy] to expand the SC and PWD discount on basic goods from P260 a month to P500 a month.”
“ The House will continue this approach of critical collaboration with the executive department. It gets things done for the people.”
IMF to PHL: To exit FATF, reform bank secrecy law
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
IF the Philippines is keen on exiting from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, the government must continue its recent efforts and reform the bank secrecy law, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
In a report released after the 2024 Article IV consultations, the IMF welcomed the “initial determination” of the FATF to declare that the Philippines has substantially completed its action plan to exit from the grey list. However, recent efforts to strengthen its anti-money laundering/countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) should continue but more needs to be done, particularly in preparation for the next mutual evaluation in 2027. Going forward, keeping up with evolving FATF requirements will be important in the context of the next mutual evaluation in 2027,” IMF said. “Reforming the bank secrecy law will strengthen AML/
CFT effectiveness and enhance the BSP’s supervisory powers.”
I MF said, however, the national government remains optimistic that it will be able to exit the grey list in February next year. The FATF onsite visit is expected in January 2025.
The authorities have made significant progress in addressing outstanding AML/ CFT issues, which should continue,” IMF stressed.
In October 2024, the AntiMoney Laundering Council (AMLC) said the FATF found that the Philippines has already addressed the 18 action plan items that had kept the country in the watchdog group’s “grey list” since June 2021.
FATF President Elisa de Anda Madrazo, who started her term on 1 July 2024, said a site visit will be conducted to affirm the country’s progress and decide on its exit from the grey list. The visit will take place between now and February 2025. Madrazo explained that an
onsite visit will entail the arrival of a group of experts to a country to verify the progress that was reported to the FATF. After verification, the FATF will decide whether the country’s efforts merit an exit from the grey list.
The FATF flagged the country for supposed inadequacies in the effectiveness of the targeted financial sanctions framework (TFS) for both terrorism financing and proliferation financing.
L anding on the FATF grey list does not automatically result in sanctions kicking in, but could cause prolonged procedures in some financial transactions, which could affect not only Filipinos traveling abroad but also Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and migrants.
Reenacting…
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) again last Monday to review the proposed 2025 national budget.
“ The printed copy of the spending measure was only received late Friday afternoon. President Marcos Jr. hopes to act on the measure before the year ends,” Chavez said.
T he Palace official said that a reenacted budget is currently not among the options being discussed by the Marcos administration.
In the past two meetings that I attended with them, there was never discussion on that [reenacted budget],” Chavez said.
A mong the issues that the President wants to iron out in
NGCP…
po ng regulatory period na iyon, mayroon na talagang [once that regulatory period lapses, there’s really a] vacuum in the law.”
NGCP filed an issues paper for a reset, but Dimalanta pointed out that it didn’t address the lack of rules at the time.
She clarified that NGCP applied for an interim rate in 2020 because there were no valid rates from 2016 to 2020. Further, the ERC’s interim decision was temporary, with a full reset needed to establish the correct rates.
Based on the original timeline, NGCP’s fourth and fifth regulatory reset applications should have covered the years 2016 to 2020; and 2021 to 2025, respectively.
The ERC, however, modified the regulatory reset periods to 2016 to 2022; and 2023 to 2027.
W hile NGCP filed an issues paper to demonstrate its desire for a reset, Dimalanta stressed that “it doesn’t cure the fact that there were no rules at that time.”
In 2020, NGCP applied for an interim rate. It’s a recognition that there were no valid issued, approved rates from 2016 all the way to 2020, that’s why they
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the proposed 2025 GAA is how to increase the Department of Education (DepEd) after Congress slashed its budget by over P10 billion for next year. He also wants to remove the supposed inappropriate insertions made by some lawmakers in the budget of DPWH through his veto power since he can no longer return it to Congress for adjustments.
Under the 1987 Constitution, the President can use line-item veto for an appropriation, revenue or tariff bill. But it may be reversed by Congress if two-thirds of its members will vote against it. The House Bicameral Committee approved the proposed 2025 GAA on 11 December 2024.
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applied for interim,” Dimalanta explained, partly in Filipino.
W hen the ERC issued a decision on the interim maximum allowable revenue (MAR), its temporary nature was explicitly stated, and a full regulatory reset remained necessary to establish the correct rates.
A sked by Committee chair Rep. Gus Tambunting what rules NGCP must follow, Dimalanta admitted that the ERC should have resolved the 4th regulatory reset instead of relying on interim arrangements.
Cost recovery method
MEANWHILE , the ERC’s approval of NGCP’s “as-spent” cost recovery method has sparked further criticism, as this approach supposedly allows NGCP to pass on expenses for projects still under development to consumers.
Such practices could raise transmission rates by 12 centavos per kilowatt-hour over a year, critics warned. Alternatively, adopting an “as-completed” approach could result in refunds of more than P1 per kilowatt-hour for consumers.
The ERC plans to finalize its decision on the matter by January next year.
NGCP, a private company operating the country’s power grid, is 40 percent owned by the State Grid Corp. of China, with the remaining 60 percent held by the tandem of Filipino tycoons Henry Sy, Jr. and Robert Coyiuto Jr. With a report by Bless Aubrey Ogerio
to 30.3 percent in January to September 2024 from the DSB to export ratio of 26.7 percent in the same period last year. It may be noted that the highest full-year DSB to export shipment ratio was at 63.8 percent, which was recorded in 1986.
The BSP also said the DSB to Exports of Goods, and Receipts from Services & Primary Income ratio was at 11.6 percent in January to September this year, higher than the 10.4 percent in 2023. The DSB to GDP ratio increased to 3.9 percent in the ninemonth period this year from 3.5 percent last year, while the DSB to Gross National Income (GNI) ratio increased to 3.4 percent this year from 3.2 percent last year. Th e data also showed that in 2023, full-year debt service burden reached $14.807 billion, marking the first time the debt service burden breached $10 billion since 1985.
B SP explained that the debt service burden represents principal and interest payments after rescheduling.
P rincipal and interest payments on fixed medium- and long-term (MLT) credits including International Monetary Fund (IMF) credits, loans covered by the Paris Club and commercial banks’ rescheduling, and New Money Facilities.
A lso included are interest payments on fixed and revolving short-term (ST) liabilities of banks and non-banks. However, it excludes prepayments on future years’ maturities of foreign loans and principal payments on fixed and revolving ST liabilities of banks and non-banks.
Sustainable Transformation in Agrarian Reform Communities Project; and the Climate Change Action Program Subprogram 2.
Th e grants include the Capacity Development of Public Utility Vehicles (PUV) in Metro Manila and its Adjoining Areas and the Establishment of an Al-based Flood Forecasting and Warning System in the Laoag River Basin. Th e list includes the Master Plan on Comprehensive Sewerage System Development for Metro Cebu of the Metropolitan Cebu Water District; Partnership for Peace and Development in Mindanao; and the Integrated Urban Climate Action for Low-Carbon and Resilient Cities (Urban-Act) Project, among others.
G2G agreements
MEANWHILE , the DOF also forged government-to-government (G2G) agreements with the Government of the French Republic and the Government of Sweden, along with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Cooperation Arrangement with the Government of the Republic of Korea, through its Export-Import Bank of Korea.
A ll these will provide the Philippine Government access to grants, technical assistance, concessional official development assistance, and/or blended financing from the said governments for the priority programs and projects of the country.
W ith the DOF’s prudent debt management strategy, the country’s financing mix currently stands at 77:23 in favor of domestic borrowings as of the end of November 2024. The country’s debt remains manageable at 61.3 percent of GDP as of the third quarter of 2024. Cai U. Ordinario
Tulfo brothers maintain lead in Senate survey
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
THE Tulfo brothers Erwin and Ben continued to dominate the survey for senatorial preferences in the 2025 elections, but former Senate President Vicente Sotto III shared the rank 2-3 with Ben Tulfo, according to the latest results of “Tugon ng Masa” conducted by Octa Research.
Octa president Ranjit Rye shared with the media the outcome of the fourth quarter senatorial preferences survey conducted November 10-16, 2024.
The survey results indicated both the percentage of voters picking a particular personality and their rank.
The survey has a ±3 percent margin of error at a 95 percent confidence level.
Octa presented respondents with a list of personalities who may run for the May 2025 elections, and then posed the question: “If the May 2025 elections will be held today, who will you likely vote for as senator? You may choose up to 12 names.”
A total of 1,200 male and female respondents aged 18 years and above were interviewed for the study.
See “Tulfo,” A4
Go to DSWD: Ensure unhampered provision of medical assistance
SEN. Christopher Go, a health reforms crusader, stressed the importance of unhampered provision of medical assistance for Filipinos, particularly during the Christmas Season. “ Ang nabalitaan natin na deadline ninyo ng issuance of guarantee letters noong December 13, tuluy-tuloy pa ba ito ? Sabi ko nga na dapat po walang deadline ang pagtulong sa mga kababayan natin dahil hindi
naman napipili ang araw na nagkakasakit tayo ,” said Go. “What if panahon ng Pasko nagkasakit ang mga kababayan natin , hihintayin pa nilang mag -January 2 para maka -avail ng tulong mula sa DSWD [Department of Social Welfare and Development]. Sana naman walang deadline muna ito, walang cut-off-cut-off ang serbisyo natin ,” he asserted.
See “Go,” A4
PSA: Forest cover up 2.9%, reaches 6.91 million hectares
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
THE country’s open and closed forest areas totaled 6.91 million hectares as of 2020, or 23.4 percent of the total land area, reflecting a 2.9 percent increase, or 193,354 ha, from 6.72 million ha in 2015, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported.
The nation’s total land area of 29,588,367 ha includes forests (closed, open, and mangrove), brush and shrubland, barren terrain, grasslands, wetlands, both perennial and annual crops, fishponds, urban areas, inland waters and marine zones.
The closed forest category saw an increase of 9.3 percent, adding
189,356 ha to its 2015 total of 2.03 million ha. The largest regional contributions came from Central Luzon (1.8 percentage points), Mimaropa or Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan (1.4 percentage points) and Northern Mindanao (1.2 percentage points).
Open forests, on the other hand, experienced a modest rise of 0.1 percent, growing by 3,998 ha from the previous 4.69 million ha in 2015.
The built-up land area grew by 20.6 percent, expanding to 1.03 million ha from 850,249 ha in 2015. Central Luzon contributed 142,632 ha (13.9 percent), followed by Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) with 138,919 ha (13.5 percent)
and Central Visayas at 73,165 ha (7.1 percent).
Perennial crops, which thrive for over two years without replanting, accounted for the largest land cover share at 6.57 million ha (22.2 percent of total land cover). The Eastern Visayas region had the highest share with 888,378 ha (13.5 percent), followed by Bicol at 775,380 ha (11.8 percent) and Davao with 753,409 ha (11.5 percent).
The area dedicated to annual crops decreased by 2.84 percent, covering 5.94 million ha, down from 6.12 million ha in 2015.
Cagayan Valley led with 898,050 ha (15.1 percent), followed by Western Visayas with 805,693 ha (13.6 percent) and Central Luzon with 640,336 ha (10.8 percent).
“Generally, the country’s total area of land will remain unchanged, hence, land accounts will primarily encompass the changes between different land classes,” the PSA stated in its release. It also noted that land asset accounts contribute to five Sustainable Development Goal indicators: 6.6.1 (Change in the extent of water-related ecosystems over time), 14.5.1 (Coverage of protected areas in relation to marine areas), 15.1.1 (Forest area as a proportion of total land area), 15.3.1 (Proportion of degraded land over total land area), and 15.4.2 (a) Mountain Green Cover Index and (b) Proportion of degraded mountain land). This is the first time the PSA has compiled the Land Asset Accounts.
Bacolod City marks first 4PH housing turnover
BACOLOD became the first local government in the Philippines to hand over a completed Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) program building. The turnover ceremony took place at Building 1 of the Asenso
Yuhum Residences in Arao, where Bacolodnon families received their units.
Buyer-beneficiaries of Building 1 are the first to occupy units under the 4PH Program, while documentation is currently underway for additional beneficiaries set to receive
units in Buildings 2, 3 and 4. The project was completed through a partnership between the Bacolod Housing Authority and the private sector partner, WRS Holdings Consortium, which includes Scheirman Construction Consolidated Inc. and RS Realty
Developers, Inc.
Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee”
Senator wants all local govts to have BPLOs
By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM
SEN. Sherwin Gatchalian wants every local government to have a Business Permits and Licensing Office to help attract investments to support economic growth.
“By establishing a BPLO in every locality, we create a onestop shop for business-related transactions, reducing the burden on our entrepreneurs and making government services
more accessible and systematic. It complements the spirit of the Ease of Doing Business Act, which laid the groundwork for efficient service delivery,” said Gatchalian, a co-author of Senate Bill 1278 or the BPLO Act.
He explained that the measure seeks to ensure that every city and town will have a dedicated BPLO, enabling local governments to have the tools and mandate to serve their constituents better.
Realizing the challenges new businesses face in securing the necessary permits, Gatchalian, as mayor at the time, worked on establishing a BPLO in Valenzuela—a move he hopes will be
replicated by every local government nationwide.
Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, said institutionalizing BPLOs would provide a supportive and welcoming environment for businesses that will hope to attract much-needed investments, particularly in non-urban areas.
“Local governments need to be ready and equipped to respond promptly and effectively to investor needs particularly small businesses and startups to help generate employment opportunities for our people and underpin economic growth,” Gatchalian said.
Holiday air travelers seen to hit 2.3 million
By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan
NEW Naia Infra Corp.
(NNIC) is expecting the number of passengers to reach 2.296 million between December 20 and January 3, a 10.95 percent increase from last year, as Filipinos rush to go home or elsewhere this holiday season.
As such, NNIC is pulling out all the stops to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for passengers during what is expected to be the busiest holiday travel season yet at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia).
“Christmas is a time for connecting with family, friends, and
In a Senate Committee on Health hearing held on Wednesday, concerns were raised about the potential impact of the DSWD’s suspension of GLs starting December 13 on patients in need of medical assistance.
DSWD Assistant Secretary Ulysses Aguilar clarified the rationale behind the imposed
loved ones, and while this is one of the busiest seasons for NAIA, we are working hard to make the experience as safe and comfortable as possible for all passengers,” Ramon S. Ang, NNIC president, said.
He explained that the company is coordinating closely with stakeholders, including the Manila International Airport Authority (Miaa), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the National Police-Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup), and other agencies.
He added that enhanced staffing levels, optimized terminal operations, and stricter security protocols are part of a comprehensive plan to handle the
deadline during the discussion. He explained that the cut-off applied solely to the processing of guarantee letters, which the agency regularly conducts as part of its yearly clearing process for payments.
Aguilar assured that this limitation did not signify a halt in providing medical assistance to patients in need. He emphasized that even while the issuance of guarantee letters might be suspended, the DSWD continued to extend support for medical needs
The future of our forests could
By Henry J. Schumacher
HAVE you ever considered where the wood we rely on for furniture, construction, and even musical instruments actually comes from?
increased volume of passengers and flights.
Airlines have also been tapped to open more check-in counters earlier than usual to minimize queuing times, especially during peak hours.
Since assuming management of NAIA 90 days ago, NNIC has introduced key infrastructure and service improvements to enhance the airport experience.
Expanded curbside areas and a centralized transport hub at Terminal 3 are among the initiatives aimed at alleviating congestion and streamlining ground transportation.
Additional seating, upgraded airconditioning units, and free
through its satellite offices, ensuring that aid remained accessible to those requiring it.
However, Go pressed further on the limitations posed by the suspension. “So may limit po? Baka puwede sabi mo sa akin noon na tuluy-tuloy po ito pero magbibigay ka ng assistance pero may limit lang , unlike the GL na mas malaki . Am I correct?” he inquired.
Aguilar affirmed the arrangement, explaining that a limit had been set for cash assistance. He
high-speed Wi-Fi are also in place to ensure passenger comfort and convenience.
Ang advised passengers to plan their trips carefully during the holiday rush.
Travelers are advised to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before domestic flights and 3.5 to 4 hours before international flights. Passengers should also check flight updates through their airlines’ official websites and follow baggage restrictions to expedite security screening.
“We thank the public for their continued trust in Naia as we work to provide a welcoming experience that reflects the joy and warmth of the holiday season,” added Ang.
clarified that patients in hospitals who issue promissory notes to cover their remaining hospital balances could still receive assistance. This support would be processed by January, effectively treating the delay in their guarantee letters as a temporary setback rather than a complete cessation of aid.
Seeking an immediate resolution, Go proposed that the DSWD coordinate with hospitals to accept promissory notes during the GL suspension period.
Tagum Water wins Energy Efficiency Excellence Award
TBy Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga
AGUM Water, an operating unit of Manila Water Non-East Zone subsidiary Manila Water Philippines Ventures (MWPV) recently bagged the Department of Energy’s 2024 Energy Efficiency Excellence (EEE) Awards.
This consecutive win highlights Manila Water’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and energy-efficient operations, paving the way for a sustainable future, the company said in a statement.
Tagum Water received the award under the Energy Management in Industries category and Small and Medium Industries sub-category, following Boracay Water’s success in the 2023 under Special Awards category. These accolades solidify the Manila Water Group’s reputation for innovative energy efficiency practices.
Tagum Water’s success is driven by its adoption of the innovative Artificial Recharge technology for water extraction in 2020, a first of its kind in the Philippines, replacing traditional deep well methods. This advanced Japanese technology, coupled with other energy efficiency measures, has significantly reduced the Company’s energy efficiency index from 0.49 kWh per cubic meter to 0.22 kWh per cubic meter. Over three years, Tagum Water achieved energy savings of 5.21 million kWh, equivalent to $1.18 million or P68.9 million in cost avoidance, an average of 1.74 million kWh per year annual reduction, marking a 43 percent decrease in energy consumption, cost avoidance of P0.39 million or P23 million per year, equivalent to 43 percent annual cost savings, and GHG emission reduction
of approximately 1,250 tons of CO2 emissions annually, further strengthening its environmental impact.
Tagum Water, a bulk water supplier providing up to 38 million liters per day (MLD) to Tagum City, Davao del Norte, has aligned its operations with Manila Water’s Energy Policy. This commitment supports the company’s broader goal of becoming a global leader in water and environmental services while championing sustainable development and responsible energy use.
As the Philippines’ representative, Tagum Water will compete in the 2025 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Energy Efficiency Awards, showcasing the nation’s leadership in sustainable energy practices. Manila Water’s continuous efforts to integrate energy efficiency into its operations affirm its vision of driving transformative solutions for water and environmental challenges, setting a benchmark for sustainability in the industry. In 2023, Boracay Water, another Manila Water Non-East Zone operating unit, also received the accolade from DOE in the Special Awards in Energy Efficiency Excellence category, under the Energy Efficiency Projects Implemented and Other Best Practices subcategory for its remarkable energy policy. The DOE EEE Award is an annual recognition program that recognizes companies, projects, government sectors, and individuals for their exemplary best practices in energy efficiency.
“This award is a testament to our dedication not only to providing excellent water services but also to champion energy efficiency and sustainability,” says Melvin John Tan, Manila Water’s Chief Operating Officer for Non-East Zone.
The survey had Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo topping the group with 73 percent of respondents voting for him, putting him at Rank 1.
His older brother Bienvenido, “Ben” Tulfo had 66 percent voting for him, and he is Ranked at 2-3 place.
The third sibling, also a media personality, is incumbent Sen. Raffy Tulfo, who placed second in the last senatorial elections.
At the same time, the Octa survey showed 63 percent voting for former Senate President Vicente Sotto III, putting him at Rank 2-3. He was followed by incumbent Sen.
“By combining innovation, collaboration, and a focus on uplifting lives, Bacolod is setting the standard for urban housing development in the Philippines,” he said.
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), under Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar, played a
Christopher Go, with 52 percent voting for him, Rank 4-7; Incumbent Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla, with 49 percent voting for him, Rank 4-7, together with another incumbent, Sen. Pia Cayetano, who had 49 percent voting for her placing at Rank 4-7; Like Sotto, comebacking Sen. Panfilo Lacson entered the Magic 12, with 47 percent voting for him, Rank 4-8; Another sitting senator, Maria Imelda Josefa Remedios “Imee” Marcos, elder sister of the President, got 41 percent voting placing her at rank Rank 7-10; Former Sen. Emmanuel Pacquiao got 38 percent putting him at Rank 8-11, while Sen. Manuel “Lito” Lapid garnered 36 percent to place him at Rank 8-13.
vital role by providing subsidies to reduce housing costs for beneficiaries. This financial support reflects DHSUD’s commitment to equitable access to quality housing. The Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF), led by President Marilene Acosta, also contributed by extending development loans and fast-tracking documentation. HDMF’s dedication to the 4PH Program ensures seamless transitions for beneficiaries into their new homes. Bless Aubrey Ogerio
be in your hands–remember this when you hug your Christmas Tree now
It’s easy to assume there’s an endless supply from vast forests somewhere. But here’s the truth: those forests are far from infinite. They’re disappearing faster than we realize. Demand for lumber is set to quadruple by 2050. Meanwhile, native forests, the ones supplying trees, (including the Christmas Trees), are facing immense threats. Climate change, invasive pests, and raging wildfires have already put 30 percent of tree species at risk of extinction. It’s a dire situation, and it’s happening right now.
But what if there was a way to turn things around? Imagine being able to grow trees specifically for high-quality hardwood but in a fraction of the time traditional species take. What if these trees didn’t just meet the rising demand for lumber but also actively helped the environment? Absorbing carbon, enriching the soil, and supporting pollinators like bees?
It’s about more than preserving forests, it’s about restoring
balance.
Here’s something fascinating: not all trees take decades to mature. Some hardwood species grow three times faster than cedar, ready for harvest in just 8-12 years.
Think about that: a renewable, sustainable source of premium timber, all in the time it takes to launch a few tech upgrades.
And this isn’t just about trees. It’s about people; farmers, specifically. Farmers play a pivotal role in this system. By planting and nurturing these fast-growing trees, they create a sustainable income source while providing us with high-quality wood.
It’s a win-win-win: economic stability for farmers, sustainable resources for industries, and protection for native forests.
These trees go beyond providing timber.
They improve soil health, foster biodiversity, and absorb substantial amounts of CO2. In fact, just one acre of these trees can offset an entire decade of a person’s carbon footprint. That’s a tangible, measurable impact on the planet.
But can this approach really scale? The answer is yes.
The North American lumber market alone is projected to reach $170 billion by 2025. As industries prioritize sustainability, the demand for renewable materials like this will skyrocket. From furniture to paddleboards, sustainable hardwood is an untapped goldmine. This isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential. Initiatives like this create ripples of change, from empowering farmers to protecting ecosystems and ensuring businesses have access to sustainable materials. So here’s the real question: Is this a cause worth your time? Could this be something worth supporting, whether through your voice or your actions?
The future of our forests might just be in our hands, including yours! My request to you, as I said in the title of this article, remember this when you hug your Christmas Tree this Christmas. Preserve trees: remember, for instance, that all the paper you use is provided by trees!! Save forests from extinction!
I look forward to your comments; email me at hjschumacher59@gmail.com.
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Brief
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22. GONG, LIHUA Quantity Surveyor
Brief Job Description: Review construction plans and quantity requirements
23. HUANG, JIANGLONG Quantity Surveyor
Brief Job Description: Review construction plans and quantity requirements.
JABA TRAVELS AND TOURS INC. 25-a 3/f Baclaran Bagong Milenyo, F.b. Harrison St., Barangay 76, Pasay City
68. AHMED, SHIMA Reservation Coordinator
Brief Job Description: Address guest inquiries about availability, pricing, and policies.
KP JOEUN CONSULTANCY INC.
Unit 7 Goldland Millenia Tower, Escriva Drive Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig
69. KOOK, NAMGEUN Marketing Officer
Brief Job Description: Organize media platforms and create marketing plan in promoting tourism to Korean clients.
LAU PHILEX FREIGHT FORWARDING CORP. Kabatuhan Road, Deparo, Barangay 168, City Of Caloocan
70. CHARNJIT SINGH Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
71. CHEN, DAOSUO Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order request before processing.
72. CHEN, ZHICHAO Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
73. DAVINDER KAUR Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
74. GURNAM SINGH Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
75. GURWINDER SINGH Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
76. HARVINDER KAUR Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
77. JATINDERPAL SINGH Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
78. LI, SHENGZHI Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
79. MONIKA Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
80. PAN, JIAWEN Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order requests before processing.
81. PARMJIT CHAND Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check
82. RAJAN Freight Forwarding Specialist
Brief Job Description: Review and check all order
132. LIN, LIMENG Virtual Assistants
Brief
NAKAMURA BEAUTY INTERNATIONAL CORP.
Unit Ground A, Best Western Premier F1 Hotel, 32nd St. Cor. Lane Q., Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig
133. ONO, AYAKA Consultant
Brief Job Description: Provide consultation services to the client in terms of the services that may need.
PHILGEULIN GROUP INC. (PHILGEULIN) 3rd Floor Silver Tree Building, San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig
134. KANG (SPOUSE OF CHO), SOHEE International Marketing Manager
Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing the marketing department and store operations and for handling Korean clients on their queries and complaints.
S-W TRADING CORP. Unit 101, #393 Mindanao Ave. 6, Talipapa, Quezon City
135. CHEN, LI Mandarin Account Manager
Brief Job Description: Stay on top of accounts, making sure they receive services that are within their budget and meet their needs.
136. CHEN, TIANHONG Mandarin Account Manager
Brief
137. SHI, ENDIAN Mandarin Account Manager
Brief Job Description: Stay on top of accounts, making sure they receive services that are within their budget and meet their needs. Basic
138. HUANG, WEIJIE Mandarin Account Supervisor
Brief Job Description: Stay on top of clients and campaigns, making sure everything will be executed perfectly. Basic Qualification: With
139. WANG, CHANGLI Mandarin Account Supervisor
Brief Job Description: Stay on top of clients and campaigns, making sure everything will be executed perfectly.
140. HUANG, ZECHENG Mandarin Document Controller
Brief Job Description: Perform regular audits on corporate documents in order to ensure that all documents are properly submitted to other departments.
141. LUO, MIN Mandarin Document Controller
Basic Qualification: With
Basic
Brief Job Description: Perform regular audits on corporate documents in order to ensure that all documents are properly submitted to other departments. Basic
142. BHUPINDER SINGH Quality Assurance Specialist
Brief Job Description: Plan, execute, and oversee product inspection and testing for quality and conformance
143. HARBHAG SINGH Quality Assurance Specialist
Continuing a pre-Christmas tradition: Palace’s ‘TSP’ opens doors to children
By Samuel P. Medenilla
FESTIVE sights and sounds filled the well-guarded Kalayaan grounds of Malacañang for one more time before Christmas with the last day of the “more special” Tara sa Palasyo (TSP) on Monday.
Office of the President (OP) Deputy Speaker Dina Arroyo-Tantoco said compared to last year, this year’s TSP features additional attractions including more free carnival rides and participating choirs drawing over 20,000 people.
“Actually what we have this year is a little bit more special because we’ve invited choirs to perform. I think we added one more ride. And then we added vendors also,” Tantoco told reporters in an interview on Monday.
Tantoco said this year’s TSP featured more rides compared to last year, including trackless train, carousel, space rocket, and a mini pirate ship. It also features arcade games including claw machine and basketball arcade as well as 14 food stalls, which sold popular Filipino street food like burgers, fruit shake and fried noodles, gotohan (rice porridge), grilled food, nachos, pasta, sandwiches, rice bowls, siomai (dumplings), lumpiang ubod (spring rolls).
The choirs, which performed in the TSP from December 16 to 23, are the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Choir, Bulacan Choir, University of the Philippines Manila Chorale, Sola Gratia Choir, Los Cantantes de Manila, Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra, Imusicapella, and the OP Chorale.
“ What happens is that there are 14 vendors, and we purchase a small, minimal amount from each of them every night to provide free samples for the public. We advertise this to support their small businesses, encouraging everyone to purchase so that it helps the vendors as well,” Tantoco said.
L aunched in 2022, the event has been held by Malacañang
Christmas tradition brought joy to their family.
“As you know, every Christmas we hold an open house because that is the tradition of our family, the Marcos family, when I was young and we are still living here. As long as it is Christmas, we hold a celebration for our little ones,” Marcos said during the gift-giving event.
More participants WITH the additional attractions and increased public awareness of the event, TSP was able to draw more people compared to previous years. We’re so grateful and happy to tell you that about 3,000 peopl visit us every night because it’s open to the public. So it was double of last year,” Tantoco said.
annually as part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s efforts to continue the tradition of his father, former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., of welcoming children at the Palace grounds during Christmas.
She said the President is happy with the implementation of the TSP and is willing to continue it until the end of his administration.
In his speech during the Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya Year 3: A Nationwide Gift-Giving Day on December 8, 2024, Marcos recalled how the
“So he wants to continue that because Christmas is for family, it’s for kids. That’s why there’s carnival rides so that the children can really enjoy Christmas,” Tantoco said.
“ Tonight is the last night of Tara sa Palacio until 11 pm and our final Simbang Gabi [Dawn Mass], which will be tomorrow at 4 am,” she added. Tantoco said TSP has now become well-known on its third year since it provides its participants a unique experience of celebrating the Christmas festivities within the country’s seat of power.
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomes visitors to the festive “Tara sa Palasyo” at Malacañang, continuing a beloved Christmas tradition. This
year’s event featured choirs, carnival rides, and food stalls, offering families a joyful holiday experience at the Palace. PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE
FAMILIES line up for carnival rides and games at Malacañang’s “Tara sa Palasyo,” as the Palace grounds come alive with festive cheer. The annual holiday event continues to draw crowds, offering a fun-filled Christmas celebration for all ages. SAMUEL P. MEDENILLA
A TOWERING Christmas tree lights up the Malacañang grounds, adding to the festive charm of the Palace’s “Tara sa Palasyo” celebration, where families gather to enjoy the holiday spirit.
SAMUEL P. MEDENILLA
THE “Tara sa Palasyo” welcome arch frames the festive spirit of Malacañang’s cherished Christmas tradition as a trackless train passes through, ferrying visitors into the heart of the celebration. SAMUEL P. MEDENILLA
Tseen importing more corn for animal feed
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
HE country’s corn imports will rise by 7.2 percent to 1.63 million metric tons (MMT) for marketing year (MY) 2024-2025 to meet the increasing demand of the domestic animal feed industry, according to an international report.
The United States Department of Agriculture-Foreign Agricultural Service in Manila’s (USDAFAS Manila) also projected that the Philippines’s corn production will grow by a measly 0.4 percent to 8.15 MMT from 8.119 MMT in
the previous MY. “The forecast production increase will not keep pace with feed demand and FAS Manila increases its forecast for corn imports in MY 2024/25, as the broiler, layer, and pet food industries continue
to grow,” its report read.
It added that the gradual repopulating efforts of the hog industry while waiting for the commercialization of the African swine fever (ASF) vaccine could further drive
up the demand for imported feed corn towards the latter part of MY 2024-2025.
The USDA-FAS Manila also increased its forecasts of feed and residual use by 2.7 percent to 7.6
‘High costs, lack of data hamper milkfish sector expansion’
THE local milkfish (bangus) industry is grappling with several challenges that have prevented it from achieving its full potential.
University of Asia and Pacific Center for Food and Agribusiness (CFA) Agribusiness Specialist Joy Kristel Orzales said one of the main issues confronting the sector is its continued reliance on imported fry.
Orzales noted that high dependence on imported fry tends to make local producers prone to supply disruptions and higher costs. Compounding their problems is the high prices of feeds.
“On top of that, poor farming practices are leading to environmental problems like siltation and mass fish deaths, harming both the environment and the industry’s productivity,” she said in a statement.
“Many fishponds and mariculture parks also remain underused or underdeveloped, which limit the industry’s ability to expand.”
Orzales said one major hurdle in the industry is the lack of reliable data on milkfish production and trade, saying this complicates planning and policymaking.
During a recently concluded dialogue for bangus, she said stakeholders had noted that the official data is only about 10 percent of the real production data.
“This is because the data only covers the landed number or total catch and does not include the inventory in farms.”
To address these challenges, Orzales said there is a need for coordinated efforts, better policies, and strategic investments to help the industry grow while remaining competitive in local and international markets.
She said the government, through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (Bfar), has set a roadmap for the sustainable development, global competitiveness, and climate change resilience of the milkfish industry.
“Production of fry can be increased with the help of private sector through private hatcheries and more public-private partnerships (PPP) on climate-resilient infrastructure,” Orzales said.
“Biosecurity can be enhanced by establishing and maintaining centralized quarantine facilities for milkfish fry near entry points as well as regulation of fry importation specific to quality assurance and disease prevention measures.”
To sort out the issue of data mismatch, Orzales noted that Bfar recognizes the importance of inventory and registration of
milkfish aquafarms completion.
“The private sector can help by working closely with the government in giving accurate inventory data of their farms.”
Orzales also noted a wider market for milkfish globally, citing boneless milkfish production which could be expanded for exports since “the Philippines is the only country that produces and markets this product.”
To widen the market for local milkfish, she said the government and private sector should work together and attend international seafood exhibits, trade fairs, and market forums.
“Much remains to be done to overcome the challenges in the milkfish industry and unlocking its full potential will require a unified and sustained effort from all stakeholders,” Orzales said. Ada Pelonia
Wood, paper trade post steep decline in 2023–report
GLOBAL trade in wood and paper products dropped steeply from record levels in 2021 and 2022, with the paper trade continuing to decline under pressure from digital media, according to data released by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
The report indicated that the worldwide wood and paper products trade saw a significant drop of 12 percent—exports fell by $64 billion to $482 billion in 2023.
“This level was still above the highest international trade value ever seen before 2021. But significantly, the fact that trade value declined faster than traded quantities for most of the products indicates a drop in forest product prices in 2023 amid a general slowdown in economic growth.”
Global production of paper and paperboard contracted by 3 percent, owing to a continuous replacement of printed media with digital products.
“What we have seen happening is a combination of factors, with production and trade declining due to global supply chain disruption, slowing consumer demand and trade restrictions, together with a longer-term decline for example in global paper production and trade along with the progress of digitalization,” said Zhimin Wu, Director of FAO’s Forestry Division.
Global production and trade of most major wood-based products recorded a decline in 2023 with only wood-based panels recording a marginal growth in production.
In 2023, global industrial roundwood removals declined by 4 percent to 1.92 billion
cubic meters. Global trade decreased by 13 percent to 100 million cubic meters (the lowest level since 2009).
As for sanwood (including planks, sleepers or cross-ties, beams, joists, boards, rafters and lumber), production decreased in all five regions around the world in 2023.
“Global production of sawnwood contracted by 4 percent to 445 million cubic meters (the lowest since 2014), and the decline in international trade was as twice a big—8 percent to 129 million cubic meters.”
FAO said global woodbased panel production grew by just 1 percent to 381 million cubic meters, owing to increased production in the Asia-Pacific that offset a decrease in other regions. However, international trade in wood-based panels followed
Fish unloading volume down in Nov–PFDA
REGIONAL ports registered a lower fish unloading volume in November, the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) said. Figures from the PFDA showed the fish unloading volume in November declined by 21.64 percent to 37,018.50 metric tons (MT) from the previous month’s 47,240.81 MT.
It said General Santos Fish Port Complex experienced a minor setback as its fish unloading volume was lower at 15,864.03 MT,
compared to the 20,184.63 MT recorded in October.
The PFDA said Navotas Fish Port Complex also registered a decline in November due to the arrival of fewer municipal fishing vessels. It said the largest regional fish port (RFP) in the country unloaded 14,386.14 MT, 30.24 percent lower than the 20,622.75 MT in October. Meanwhile, the Iloilo Fish Port Complex delivered 1,865.99 MT to consumers in November, lower than the 2,263.98 MT in
the previous month.
The government-owned and -controlled corporation attached to the Department of Agriculture reported that other RFPs recorded higher unloading volumes during the period.
For one, the PFDA said the Bulan Fish Port Complex “has been on a successful streak for three consecutive months” as it unloaded 1,614.95 MT of fish products to consumers, which is 27.62 percent higher than the 1,265.45 MT in October.
For four consecutive months,
MMT in the current MY from 7.4 MMT.
“Industry contacts report that the demand for chicken meat and eggs are expected to further increase within the current MY, as alternative sources of protein for the growing population,” it said.
“Additionally, industry contacts also report a positive outlook for pet food this MY.”
Meanwhile, the agency projects that food, seed, and industrial (FSI) consumption will rise by 1.4 percent to 2.23 MMT in the current MY from 2.20 MMT due to increased demand for corn-based food snacks and byproducts, such as cornstarch, oil, and syrup.
Rice production
MEANWHILE , the USDA-FAS Manila said it expects rice production in the current MY to
decline following the series of weather disturbances that struck the country.
The agency projects milled rice production to drop by 3 percent to 11.95 MMT from 12.325 MMT in the previous market year.
“The decline is driven by the combined effects of El Niño and La Niña on the MY 2024/25 crop, which negatively impacted domestic palay production.”
The agency also increased the country’s rice import forecast by 17.8 percent to 5.3 MMT from 4.5 MMT.
“The forecast increase is driven by the need to supplement supply, given the reduction in local palay output,” it said.
Data from the Bureau of Plant Industry showed that rice shipments from January 1 to December 12 have reached 4.48 MMT.
Farmers are still reeling months after Hurricane Helene ravaged crops across the South
By Russ Bynum The Associated Press
LYONS , Ga.—Twisted equipment and snapped tree limbs still litter Chris
Hopkins’ Georgia farm more than two months after Hurricane Helene made its deadly march across the South.
An irrigation sprinkler system about 300 feet (92 meters) long lay overturned in a field, its steel pipes bent and welded joints broken. The mangled remains of a grain bin sat crumpled by a road. On a Friday in early December, Hopkins dragged burly limbs from the path of the tractor-like machine that picks his cotton crop six rows at a time.
“I have wrestled with lots of emotions the past two months,” said Hopkins, who also grows corn and peanuts in rural Toombs County, about 75 miles (120 kilometers) west of Savannah. “Do we just get through this one and quit? Do we build back? It is emotionally draining.”
Hopkins is among farmers across the South who are still reeling from Helene’s devastation. The storm made landfall in Florida on Sept. 26 as a major Category 4 storm and then raced north across Georgia and neighboring states.
a downward trend similar to that of other products, falling by 7 percent to 84 million cubic meters, the lowest since 2016.
“Global production of wood pulp declined by 2 percent to reach 193 million tons. In contrast, trade in wood pulp increased by 3 percent to reach a record level of 71 million tons.”
The report noted that in 2023, paper production declined in Europe and northern America, while it stagnated in Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean. It grew only in Asia-Pacific.
“World paper production dropped by 3 percent to 401 million tons (trade by 7 percent to 104 million tons, the lowest since 2010). Global production of graphic papers declined by 9 percent while other paper and paperboard recorded a smaller decrease of 3 percent in 2023.”
the PFDA said Davao Fish Port Complex reported a “consistent performance” as it delivered 814.13 MT of fish in November, 18.88 percent higher than the 684.84 MT in the previous month.
The Lucena Fish Port Complex unloaded 1,503.63 MT of fish, which showed a 13.15 percent increase in its fish delivery from 1,328.94 MT in October.
PFDA said Zamboanga Fish Port Complex delivered more fish products to consumers in November. It registered an unloading volume of 969.22 MT, 8.93 percent higher than the 889.77 MT in the previous month. Ada Pelonia
Experts estimate the cost to farmers, timber growers and other agribusinesses from Florida to Virginia will reach more than $10 billion. The toll includes ravaged crops, uprooted timber, wrecked farm equipment and mangled chicken houses, as well as indirect costs such as lost productivity at cotton gins and poultry processing plants.
For cotton growers like Hopkins, Helene hit just as the fall harvest was starting. Many put most cleanup on hold to try to salvage what remained of their crops.
‘Staggering’ losses
GEORGIA farmers suffered storm losses of at least $5.5 billion, according to an analysis by the University of Georgia. In North Carolina, a state agency calculated farmers suffered $3.1 billion in crop losses and recovery costs after Helene brought record rainfall and flooding. Separate economic analyses of farm damage tallied losses of up to $630 million in Virginia, $452 million in South Carolina and $162 million in Florida.
Hopkins figures he lost half the cotton on his 1,400 acres (560 hectares).
“We were at the most vulnerable stage we could be,” he said. “The lint was open and fluffy and hanging there, waiting to be defoliated or picked. About 50 percent of the harvestable lint ended up on the ground.”
Even with insurance, Hopkins said, he won’t recoup an estimated $430,000 in losses from his cotton crop alone. That doesn’t include the cost of debris removal, repairing or replacing damaged machinery and the loss of two small pecan orchards uprooted by the storm.
The storm ripped through blooming cotton fields, pecan orchards laden with nuts and fields where fall vegetables like cucumbers and squash awaited picking.
Hundreds of large poultry houses used to raise thousands of chickens at a time got destroyed.
Farmers far from Helene’s center weren’t spared, as tropical-storm force winds reached outward up to 310 miles (499 kilometers).
“It was staggering,” said Timothy Coolong, a University of Georgia horticulture professor. “This may be just too much for some folks.” Helene was one of the deadliest US
hurricanes in nearly two decades, killing more than 200 people. It left more than 100,000 homes damaged or destroyed across the South.
Aid to farmers
GEORGIA’S government in November diverted $100 million that had been set aside for construction projects or paying off existing debt to fund emergency loans to farmers and cleanup in Helene’s aftermath. Republican Gov. Brian Kemp has made additional storm relief a priority for the upcoming legislative session. But Georgia’s constitution prohibits using state funds to give direct disaster aid to individuals and private businesses. In Congress, a spending bill passed early Saturday to avoid a government shutdown included $21 billion in disaster aid to US farmers.
“We need help, but we need it quick,” said Jeffrey Pridgen, a fifth-generation farmer who raises chickens in south Georgia’s Coffee County. Pridgen operated a dozen poultry houses, each large enough to raise up to 20,000 chickens at a time. Helene destroyed four of them, along with thousands of chickens. Only one of Pridgen’s houses remains in working condition, the others having been badly damaged. Pridgen said new chicken houses will cost about $450,000 apiece. Because most of his were decades old, he expects insurance to cover just half the cost.
“I was looking at retirement, but I lost my retirement and my income in one day,” said Pridgen, 62. “It’ll be two years before we get fully operational again. I’m basically starting over.”
‘Everybody lost something’ GEORGIA’S poultry industry took an estimated $683 million hit, with farmers having to rebuild about 300 chicken houses and repair hundreds more. The poultry processing plant that relies on Pridgen and other storm-impacted farmers for chickens is now operating just four days per week, he said.
“Now for at least a year, perhaps a little bit longer, we’re in rebuilding mode,” said Mike Giles, president of the Georgia Poultry Federation. “That affects production in an area for an extended period of time.” Helene’s devastation shouldn’t have much impact on consumer prices because crops grown elsewhere can make up for most shortages, said Michael Adjemian, a University of Georgia professor of agricultural economics. Pecans are one possible exception. Georgia is responsible for roughly one-third of US production.
“In most cases, even a terrible storm like this is going to have a relatively small impact,” Adjemian said. “And maybe it’s not even noticeable, depending on the product.” Helene cost Georgia cotton farmers roughly one-third of their crop, with direct and indirect losses valued at $560 million. Some were still recovering from Hurricane Michael in 2018.
Cotton growers also were facing low prices this harvest season of around 70 cents per pound (per 0.45 kilograms), said Taylor Sills, executive director of the Georgia Cotton Commission. That meant they needed a big yield to turn any profit.
“Times were awful, and then they got hit by a hurricane,” Sills said. “There are people who lost everything and there are people who didn’t. But everybody lost something.”
BUSINESSMIRROR FILE PHOTO
Comelec to DILG, PNP: Abolish private armies before campaign period starts
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
AMID rising threats against poll officials, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has urged the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to dismantle private armies before the campaign period for the 2025 elections begins.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia reiterated the call on Monday, warning that the existence of private armed groups poses a significant risk to the integrity of the elections and the safety of poll workers.
“I am once again calling on the DILG and PNP to dismantle private armies before the campaign period begins in February, especially before March 28, when the campaign period for local positions officially starts,” Garcia said in Filipino.
“We cannot ensure peaceful and orderly elections if private armies are allowed to be used by some to
intimidate, terrorize, and undermine the decisions and mandate of the people,” he added.
Garcia’s statement followed the ambush of Sulu provincial election supervisor Vidzfar Julie and his brother over the weekend in Zamboanga del Norte. While Julie survived the attack, his brother succumbed to fatal gunshot wounds.
The Comelec chair confirmed that the ambush was likely politically motivated.
He said some sitting politicians feel that Comelec is favoring their opponents when the commission denies requests for “favors,” like transferring polling precincts or giving out voter lists with photos.
“In reality, Comelec cannot grant these favors. Our duty is ministerial,” Garcia explained. This ambush marks the third attack on election officials in recent months, following the killings of poll workers in Lanao del Norte and Sultan Kudarat.
Garcia pointed out that the ambush in Lanao del Norte was
also politically motivated (See https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/11/25/election-officer-shot-dead-in-lanao-comelec-alarmed/), with the attack stemming from long-standing animosity between the victim and a public official involved in the previous barangay and sangguniang kabataan elections.
Despite the elections being over, the anger remains—highlighting that threats to election officials persist regardless of whether the elections are ongoing or have concluded.
“Just because the elections are over doesn’t mean our personnel are safe. The threats remain before, during, and even long after the polls,” Garcia said.
Not an area of concern
DESPITE the attack, Comelec clarified that Sulu is not a candidate yet to be placed under Comele’s areas of concern.
Garcia noted that the province has been relatively peaceful in
Oil firms announce another steep hike in pump prices ahead of Christmas
OBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
IL firms announced Monday another round of increase in pump prices.
Starting Tuesday, gasoline will go up by P0.50 per liter, diesel by P1.45 per liter, and kerosene by P0.75 per liter.
Petron, Shell, Caltex, Unioil, Seaoil, Total, PTT, Phoenix, Jetti, Cleanfuel said they will
adjust their prices on Tuesday, December 24.
The new pump prices will take effect at 6 a.m. on for all the firms except for Cleanfuel, which will hike prices at 4:01 p.m. the same day.
This is the fifth consecutive week of increases for gasoline, and the second for diesel and kerosene. Oil firms adjust their prices every week to reflect movements in the world oil market.
recent years, with no major contests at the gubernatorial level and only four municipalities facing mayoral races.
An “area of concern” under Comelec guidelines refers to a region or locality with a high potential for election-related violence, threats, or disturbances.
Such areas are typically marked by intense political rivalry, armed groups, or a history of electionrelated incidents like killings or intimidation.
Localities designated as areas of concern are placed under Comelec control, which allows the commission to implement enhanced security measures and other restrictions to protect the election process. While investigations into the ambush are ongoing, Comelec urged the PNP to expedite the identification and arrest of those responsible for the attack. The commission also vowed to conduct its own investigation to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
Last December 17, oil companies implemented an increase on the price of petroleum products. Both gasoline and diesel have increased by P0.80/liter, while kerosene has increased by P0.10/ liter. This brought the year-todate, total adjustment of gasoline and diesel at a net increase of P12.55/liter and P9.85/liter, respectively. On the other hand, kerosene has a total net decrease of P2.55/liter.
DOH reports surge in fireworks injuries: 17 cases in just 2 days
Claudeth S. Mocon-Ciriaco
T@claudethmc3
Of the number, males between 7-37 were injured the most.
The DOH said that it will continue to push for Filipinos to be healthier and safer from fireworks-related injuries.
HE Department of Health (DOH) reported a total of 17 fireworks-related injury (FWRI) cases from December 2223, 2024, with children who are mostly affected. According to the DOH the number is 113 percent higher as compared to the same period last year with only 6 FWRI cases reported.
The DOH reminds the public to use safer alternatives to firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices by participating in community fireworks displays and by using other noise and light producing devices such as sound systems, light emitting devices, percussion instruments, pans, tambourines, and bells.
DOLE to employers: Comply with 13th month pay deadline
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Monday urged employers to celebrate the holiday spirit not just with festivities, but by also fulfilling their legal duty to pay workers their 13th-month salary on or before the December 24 deadline.
In a text message, Labor Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma said that employers’ timely payment reflects their compassion and care for employees during the holiday season.
“It would have been very much appreciated if payment has already been made. In any case, paying it tomorrow will be a manifestation of their concern for the welfare of their employees,” Laguesma added.
The labor secretary also encouraged employers to comply voluntarily to avoid potential disputes, complaints, or penalties that may arise from non-compliance with the law.
“I would not want to make a warning but rather appeal to employers who have not yet paid the 13th month to show an act of love and ‘malasakit’ to their workers by voluntarily complying with the mandate of the law,” he added.
Under Labor Advisory No. 132024, all rank-and-file employees in the private sector—regardless of their employment status or payment method—are entitled to the 13th-month pay.
Even employees who have resigned, been terminated, or are on maternity leave qualify, provided they have worked at least one month during the calendar year. The benefit is calculated based on an employee’s total basic salary earned over the year.
The advisory also clarified that allowances and other monetary benefits are typically excluded from the computation unless specified in agreements, policies, or practices.
Employers are reminded that no exemptions or deferments will be granted for this mandatory payment.
“No request or application for exemption from payment of 13thmonth pay, or for deferment of its payment shall be accepted and allowed,” the advisory stated.
For workers whose employers fail to meet this requirement, DOLE assured that assistance is available through its field offices, which can mediate disputes and summon employers to address non-payment complaints.
“In any case, workers who did not get paid can seek the assistance of the nearest DOLE office having jurisdiction in their places of work. This way, their employers can be summoned by the DOLE to appear so that the issue of non-payment can be resolved,” Laguesma assured.
To ensure compliance, DOLE also requires all employers to submit a report confirming adherence to the policy by January 15 via its online portal.
The department warned that extensions for report submissions will not be granted.
Panama’s leader takes up feud with Trump over Canal control T
By Michael McDonald, Josh Wingrove & Gregory Korte Bloomberg News
PANAMA’S president rebuffed Donald Trump’s threat to reimpose US control over the Panama Canal, saying its shipping tolls aren’t inflated and that sovereignty over the waterway isn’t negotiable.
“Every square meter of the Panama Canal and its adjacent zones is part of Panama, and it will continue to be,” President José Raúl Mulino said Sunday in a video statement on X, the social platform.
Mulino’s defense of Panamanian control over the key commercial waterway shows how Trump is already exerting global influence after he brought control over the canal into play over the weekend, decrying “ridiculous” transit fees for US vessels and alleged Chinese encroachment.
Trump’s diplomatic hardball—
just less than a month before his inauguration—represents a new front in his attempt to ratchet up pressure on trading partners. After Mulino’s retort about continued Panamanian control, Trump said, “We’ll see about that!” on his Truth Social platform. China doesn’t control the canal, though a Chinese company— a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd.—has two of the five ports adjacent to the canal, one on each side.
Under Panama’s constitution, the canal is managed by the Panama Canal Authority, with some of
the tolls going into the national treasury. The authority said last week that it had deposited almost $2.5 billion in the last fiscal year.
And China’s influence has been growing in the region. In 2017, Panama severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan and declared that there was “only one China.”
After raising the issue on his social platform, Trump claimed Sunday that the canal was “falling into the wrong hands.”
“It’s not for China or any other country to manage,” he told a conservative audience in Phoenix.
“You see what’s going on there? China.”
In a post on his Facebook account later Sunday, Trump posted an image of a US-flagged vessel on a body of water with the caption “Welcome to the United States Canal!”
It’s unclear what circumstances would allow Trump to invoke control over the canal, which the US built at the start of the last century before returning it to Panamanian control 25 years ago under a set of 1977 treaties signed by then President Jimmy Carter. However, a US-Panamanian treaty establishing the canal’s permanent neutrality for transit by all nations remains in effect—
a fact cited by Mulino on Sunday. That treaty also says the US could use military force to defend the canal’s neutrality.
The 51-mile (82-kilometer) canal connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans is a major strategic asset—and has been a choke point for global trade as Panama has suffered a prolonged drought that has impeded crossings.
Mulino said the canal’s tolls aren’t excessive. Citing the USPanamanian treaties, Mulino said the canal is controlled exclusively by Panama and isn’t influenced by China, Europe or the US.
“Our country’s sovereignty and independence are not negotiable,” he said. Canal tolls are established transparently, based on operating costs and market conditions, he said.
While not making any specific demands, Trump’s statement served as a warning that the US reserved the right to “demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, in full, and without question.”
Mulino suggested that Trump’s comments were out of line.
“Panama respects other nations and demands respect,” he said. “The canal will remain in Panamanian hands as an inalienable patrimony of our nation.”
Putin meets Slovakia’s Fico before expiry of gas deal
SBy Bloomberg News
LOVAK
Prime Minister
Robert Fico said he discussed the looming end of a natural-gas supply deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a rare visit to Moscow by a European leader on Sunday. In a Facebook post, Fico said Putin confirmed that Russia was ready to continue delivering gas to the West via Ukraine, but this would be “practically impossible” after Jan. 1 given Kyiv’s stance. The premier’s trip came a little more than a week before the expiry of a transit contract between Moscow and Ukraine that allows about 15 billion cubic meters of Russian pipeline gas per year to be shipped to a number of European nations.
Several European buyers, including Slovakia, are trying to put together a deal that would work for Kyiv. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy indicated on Thursday that Ukraine won’t transit Russianorigin gas unless he has assurances the Kremlin won’t benefit financially while the war continues.
Fico is only the second European Union leader to visit Moscow since Putin began his full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago. The other is Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who traveled to the Russian capital earlier this year in a visit that was heavily criticized by Western allies.
Fico’s trip drew a sharp rebuke from the Czech Republic, Slovakia’s former federation partner. Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky was quoted by the CTK
news agency as saying that his country has taken steps to decrease its energy dependence on Russia “so that we don’t need to crawl in front of a murderer.”
This was the first one-on-one meeting between Fico and Putin since 2016, according to Russia’s state-run Tass news service.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state television earlier Sunday that the visit had been agreed “some days ago” for the two leaders to discuss international matters, including Russia’s gas transit.
Slovakia’s largest gas company SPP has diversified its supply contracts, but shipments from Russia’s Gazprom PJSC remains the most affordable option. The country also earns approximately €500 million ($522 million) annu -
ally from fees for transporting the fuel to nations such as Austria, the Czech Republic and Italy.
Last week, Fico held talks with Zelenskiy about the possibilities of gas transit and said he was surprised by the Ukrainian leader’s resistant stance. Orban said Saturday that his country is still seeking a solution that would allow flows to Europe via Ukraine to continue.
Slovakia, a member of the EU and NATO, shares a border with Ukraine. Fico earlier criticized his European allies for providing military support to Kyiv, arguing that it only prolongs the war.
He’s also opposed sanctions against Russia, stating that after the war ends, he aims to “do everything possible to restore economic and standard relations with the Russian Federation.”
Ho Chi Minh City opens first metro line after yrs of delay
By Nguyen Dieu Tu Uyen Bloomberg News
ABritain’s £2 billion shoplifting spree sparks security overhaul
HE explosive rise of shoplifting in the UK is reshaping the retail security sector as personnel numbers grow and stores turn to new—sometimes controversial—technology.
Almost £2 billion ($2.5 billion) of stock was stolen between September 2022 and August 2023, according to the British Retail Consortium’s latest crime survey—the most on record and nearly twice as much as in the preceding 12 months. The number of violent or abusive shoplifting incidents also rose to more than 1,300 a day, up from 870 a year earlier, the BRC said.
The wave of retail crime is not just a British problem: Post-pandemic price rises have also driven demand for discounted and often stolen goods in the US and parts of Europe and Asia. But the effects of runaway inflation in the UK were compounded by a light-touch approach to tackling low-value thefts, which retailers say has emboldened shoplifters and discouraged police attendance.
Britain’s retailers, who have traditionally had few effective ways to tackle shoplifting, believe they will be able to turn the tables in 2025.
Spending millions
RICHARD Walker, chief executive officer of frozen food retailer Iceland, told Bloomberg News that the company plans to become the first major UK supermarket to run a trial of facial recognition technology next year. While civil rights campaigners say the tech poses a threat to privacy and personal freedoms, Walker sees it as a useful tool for tracking serial shoplifters.
“We’ve never spent more on in-store security,” he said. “It’s millions.” Other grocers including Tesco Plc, the country’s biggest, are pouring millions of pounds into equipping staff with body cameras and other tools. The industry spent about £1.2 billion on crime prevention measures last year, up from £720 million in 2022, the BRC has found. Iceland plans to become the first major UK supermarket to run a trial of facial recognition technology next year.
While some criminals steal to survive, organized shoplifting gangs have become more common in recent years, swiping items in bulk to resell at a discount. Retailers and police are working to share more information and CCTV images of the most prolific offenders in a partnership known as Project Pegasus. One large supermarket has identified a woman who was responsible for a shoplifting spree across 80 stores, from Exmouth to Durham, according to a person familiar with the matter.
Private security plays a role in the project too. Mitie Plc, which supplies surveillance and guards to retail businesses, is sharing intelligence with police to catch prolific offenders.
“We don’t want police spending weeks and months doing work that we could have already done,” said John Unsworth, Mitie’s director of crime and intelligence. Information supplied by the facilities management company led to the jailing of a gang in 2022 that had stolen about £50,000 of goods from Co-op and Spar shops in northwest England, according to police.
Identifying key offenders will be critical as UK law changes to reclassify thefts of less than £200 as crimes and to make assault of a shop worker a standalone offense, punishable by six months in jail. Since the launch of a specialist national policing unit in May, 93 gang members responsible for more than £4 million in losses have been arrested.
Organized shoplifting “does a huge amount of harm, in terms of not only the volume but the cost to the public, because clearly the prices go up,” said Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman, who heads the unit.
Growing hostility
SECURITY staff remain an important line of defense for retailers.
The overall number of security licenses rose to 497,000, up 2 percent compared to a year earlier, according the Security Industry Authority, which regulates the sector.
The Co-op Group, which runs about 2,400 stores in the UK, has increased its budget for security personnel by about 50 percent in the last two years, said Paul Gerrard, the group’s director of campaigns. Guards are expected to act as a visual deterrent to would-be thieves and to gather information that can be shared with police and other retailers. Like all members of the public, they can perform a citizen’s arrest, but they have no additional legal right to detain a suspect. Most retailers tell staff to avoid engaging with potentially dangerous criminals for their own safety and that of their customers.
Security staff remain an important line of defense for retailers.
“We’ll never ask colleagues to physically intervene,” said Gerrard. A Co-op employee lost the sight in an eye after an assault, he said, while others broke bones.
While licensed UK security guards are trained to intervene physically, much of their instruction is focused on verbal tactics.
FTER years of funding shortages, ballooning costs and bureaucratic foot-dragging, Ho Chi Minh City is opening the first metro line to serve its 10 million residents. Years of start-and-stop construction means the seemingly new ticket vending machines are partly obsolete: they accept coins that are no longer in circulation. Fortunately, passengers can also pay with paper money and credit cards. The 19.7 kilometer (12.2 miles) metro line was green-lighted in 2007 with an initial cost estimate of about 17.4 trillion dong ($683.4 million)—which eventually swelled to 43.7 trillion dong— and a planned 2018 opening. The project, whose construction began in 2012, received substantial financing aid from the Japanese government, according to the city’s transport department. Obstacles included a funding shortage from the Vietnam government that caused Japanese contractors to complain through the Japanese embassy in Vietnam, according to local media and government reports. The soaring costs needed to be continually re-approved by Vietnam’s parliament, a painfully slow process.
from 6,000 dong to 20,000 dong. Rides are free for the first 30 days of official operation that began Sunday. The line will operate 200 trips a day.
The metro line runs from the historic Ben Thanh Market in the city’s District 1 center to the suburban Thu Duc City and Suoi Tien Amusement Park in District 9. Individual trip fares range
Anticipation for its opening stirred excitement among trafficweary residents in the nation’s financial hub. Hundreds lined up in front of the Ben Thanh underground station on Thursday to wait for a free test ride.
“I’m so happy and proud that the city now has a metro line and becomes more modern and con -
venient,” said Nguyen Thu Trang, who was among hundreds of students enlisted to help people navigate the new metro stations on Sunday. “Some of my friends came early this morning and were waiting in line for almost two hours but they didn’t leave until they could get on board. I myself also tried a short ride and I must say it’s amazing,” Trang added.
Road mayhem IN a city with 8.4 million motorbikes clogging narrow streets— and a growing number of automobiles and trucks hauling cargo containers adding to the road mayhem—a mass rapid transit line is desperately needed.
“It’s so beautiful,” wrote one reader of an article about the metro on VnExpress news website in the comments section. “I can’t wait to try it.”
The sound of swishing metro cars also triggered snarky remarks on social media. “The world has gone to the moon, but in Vietnam we now just have MRT to travel on,” one Facebook user quipped.
One security guard at home-improvement chain B&Q said that politely saying hello to potential shoplifters meant he could signal that he was watching without making accusations. The 23-year-old guard, who didn’t want to be named as he works undercover, said his best catch was preventing a theft of £730 worth of screwdrivers, hammers and other hand tools earlier this year.
But shoplifters’ growing hostility is making retail jobs more challenging.
One sales assistant at Pepco Group’s Poundland, a discount store chain, described being taunted by thieves because they were confident police wouldn’t arrive in time to arrest them. The 60-year-old, who didn’t want to be named as he feared reprisal from his employer, said he had also been assaulted by shoplifters who smashed his glasses and left him winded.
Iceland’s Walker says the government should consider giving more powers to security guards.
“You go to Spain and they’ll have handcuffs and pepper spray,” he said. “It’s a bit of a losing battle if, in this country, in-store security guards have as much power as a civilian.”
Police response times have improved since the launch of the previous Conservative government’s Retail Action Plan last October, which offers guidance on how to respond to shoplifting. Officers attended 66 percent of callouts to Co-op stores where a suspected thief had been detained in the year to October, according to the chain’s security provider Mitie. That’s up from 22 percent of incidents between January and September 2023. The Co-op’s Gerrard says rehabilitating repeat offenders, rather than handing them ineffective short sentences, should be a goal. But for the time being, “investment by businesses, both in cash and in time with the police, produces positive results.” Bloomberg News
French Embassy opens new office
By Malou Talosig-Bartolome
FRANCE’S new deputation in the country was inaugurated by no less its secretary general of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs Anne-Marie Descôtes.
The embassy relocated from the Pacific Star Building along Sen. Gil Puyat (Buendia) Avenue to the 21st floor of the Ayala Triangle Gardens Tower along Paseo de Roxas cor. Makati Avenue in Makati City last January 2024.
Its inauguration ceremony was held on December 9 during the first day of the “Philippine Week in Paris” celebration, which aimed at exploring new avenues for cooperation across a range of sectors including maritime cooperation, trade, tourism, development, higher education and research.
Chinese influencers feted with Pinoy noche buena
“The new, modern premises aim to upgrade the quality of service being rendered by the Embassy of France to the public, as well as the working conditions of the embassy teams, which have expanded over the last few months with the opening of a full-fledged defense mission,” according to a statement from the embassy.
The deputation, however, does not house the visa-application center in the new site. Those who are applying for visas should first enlist online with TLS Contact, which has visa-processing locations at the Proscenium Tower in Makati and Cebu Business Park in Cebu City.
The opening and the Philippine Week in Paris also coincided with
The inauguration ceremony took place in the presence of Asst. Sec. Ariel Peñaranda of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo of Makati, Ayala Corp. chair Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala II, as well as heads of missions of European Union member-states.
‘Remarkable
the resumption of the Paris-Manila direct flights. Descôtes led the French delegation who boarded the maiden direct flight of Air France from the French capital last December 7. She arrived in Manila on December 8.
Officials from the Department of Tourism, Department of Transportation, National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Science and Technology, and Philippine Coast Guard also took the first air travel that left Manila on the same
night for high-level meetings with their counterparts in the European republic.
The French minister also engaged in a bilateral meeting with Usec. Ma. Theresa Lazaro of the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila.
“We look forward to an exciting Philippines-France partnership in the year ahead, including in the defense, energy, climate, agriculture, health and maritime sectors,” Lazaro posted in her X account.
breakthroughs’ bond five decades of UAE-PHL relations
On the occasion of the of the United Arab Emirates’ 53rd National Day
DISTINGUISHED excellencies, honorable guests, ladies and gentlemen: Magandang gabi!
Good evening!
As we celebrate the 53rd United Arab Emirates National Day, we take pride in celebrating the 50 years of diplomatic bilateral relations between the UAE and the Republic of the Philippines.
Eid Al Etihad or “Feast of the Union” is to honor the spirit of unity [among the seven] emirates, championed by the founding father of our nation: His Highness, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Today, the UAE is under the lead-
ership of our president: His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. His leading rule and initiatives promote the principles of human fraternity, solidarity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
The UAE is home to more than 200
nationalities. However, Filipinos have a special place in the Emirates’ hearts.
Our special people-to-people ties are a key factor of our flourishing relations with the Philippines.
Over the past 50 years, the UAE and the Philippines have embraced a close relationship built on solid and historic ties. Recently, we reached a new milestone as our leader welcomed in UAE
His Excellency Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Madame First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and have signed nine memoranda of understanding.
Truly, it was a historic visit that will further strengthen our bilateral relations.
This year is a culmination of our shared efforts toward successful partnership, commenced by the visit to the Philippines last June 4 of His Highness
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who is the UAE’s deputy prime minister and minister of Foreign Affairs, followed by the exceptional working visit of Madame First Lady Louise AranetaMarcos from June 27 to 29. Indeed, a remarkable breakthrough.
On this special day, I congratulate the UAE leaders: our president, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; our vice president, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; our prime minister and ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan; vice president, deputy prime minister and chair of the Presidential Court, and their Highnesses, members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates, wishing further progress and prosperity to our nation.
Maraming salamat!
Australia supports Fil. indigenous leaders with cross-cultural conservation fellowship
NINE Filipino indigenous leaders have received a prestigious fellowship from the Australian government.
Leaders from Bagobo Tagabawa, Bagobo Klata, Obu Manuvu, Manobo Tinonanon, Manobo Tigwahanon, Higaonon-Bukidnon and Isnag will participate in a four-week Australia Awards Fellowship at Charles Darwin University in Australia’s Northern Territory. They will exchange knowledge and practices on biodiversity conservation with First Nations leaders and experts from Australia. The fellowship is a collaboration between Charles Darwin University and the Philippine Eagle Foundation, led by Director for Operations and Australia Awards alumnus Dr. Jayson Ibanez.
Amb. HK Yu PSM, FCPA (Aust.) was upbeat in witnessing the new partnership between the Philippine Eagle Foundation and Charles Darwin University, and the two institutions being part of the transformative Australia Awards Fellowships program: “Equally as exciting is this powerful, professional learning opportunity for Filipino indigenous leaders to develop, implement and inspire reforms that benefit communities. We are very proud of our alumnus Dr. Jayson Ibanez for leading this initiative.”
The indigenous fellows are traditional leaders from communities in Luzon and Mindanao which host ancient nesting sites of the critically en-
dangered Philippine Eagle, covering 150,000 hectares of forests and home to 100,000 indigenous residents. The fellowship also aims to build competencies in gender equality, disability and social inclusion; sensitive natural resource management; as well as climate resilience and disaster-risk reduction.
On their return, the fellows will implement a “Re-Entry Action Plan” to use their learnings from Australia to initiate genuine, positive change in their ancestral domains.
For Dr. Ibanez, the fellowship
compliments his work over the past decade since completing his PhD in Australia in 2014: “I am grateful that even beyond my scholarship, the Australian government continues to support my advocacy for the natural environment and indigenous development. Now, I am paying it forward by bridging opportunities for my Filipino Indigenous colleagues to experience the same high-quality cross-cultural training and learning that I gained in Australia.”
The Australia Awards alumnus
completed his PhD at Charles Darwin University where he developed a culture-based conservation framework that integrates indigenous knowledge and scientific techniques in natural resources conservation. He collaborates with various indigenous communities across the Philippines in his conservation work with the Philippine Eagle Foundation.
In May 2025, experts from Charles Darwin University and Australian First Nations’ leaders will travel to the Philippines for a reciprocal learning exchange.
BEIJING—Philippine ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz opened a three-week culinary festival here last month, where Chinese media and food influencers experienced early Christmas treats with Pinoy noche buena dishes.
Classic Filipino menu that consisted of lechon, menudo, hamon, kare-kare, inasal, morcon, ginataang alimango, lumpiang sariwa, pancit palabok, as well as Christmas desserts puto bumbong and bibingka were served for guests of the Philippine Embassy in the Chinese capital city.
“By introducing…the flavors of the Philippines, we hope that you will find another reason to visit our beautiful, bountiful country—to ‘Love the Philippines,’” FlorCruz said.
Filipino chef Michelle Adrillana prepared the menu, as she coupled each dish with storytelling that highlights the cultural significance behind these culinary traditions.
Aside from Chinese media, key opinion leaders and hotel guests attended the festival.
The event aimed at engaging food lovers in Beijing and building a vibrant community experience for Filipino expatriates. Diners also had the chance to win a roundtrip ticket to the Philippines, among other exciting prizes. The Philippine Embassy partnered with the Department of Tourism-Beijing and Grand Hyatt Hotel-Beijing for the food festival that will run until December 21, 2024. The event was also in coordination with PTIC-Beijing. At the gathering, the Filipino envoy thanked the embassy’s partners: “[Other than introducing Philippine food and culture to all of you, our partners, this] is also about expressing our gratitude for your never-ending support. Please consider tonight’s gastronomic fiesta as a gesture of our heartfelt thanks and an invitation for each of you to visit the Philippines and get to know our country even more.” He remarked that, “If Filipino food is a beautiful blending of different flavors, then our event tonight is similarly an intermingling of friendship, history and cultures.” Malou Talosig-Bartolome
THE Kingdom of Norway has bolstered its support on human rights in the Philippines via a multilateral cooperation agreement with the United Nations (UN).
The project seeks to strengthen legal and justice institutions and protect civic space in the country. The agreement was signed between the Norwegian Embassy and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). It was commemorated through a signing ceremony at the UN Office in Manila.
Amb. Christian Halaas Lyster said the program is an ideal example of cooperation that will strengthen national human rights-protection mechanisms and protect civic space: “Norway recognizes the progress and the accomplishments by the Philippines on human rights.”
He added that his country also takes this opportunity to commend the policy pronouncement delivered during the third State of the Nation Address, where President Ferdinand R. Marcos declared that his administration’s fight against dangerous drugs is “bloodless and does not involve extermination.”
UN resident coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez cited Norway too for its continued support: “Good governance is a pillar of the ‘Philippine Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.’ Our partnership with national institutions that promote and protect human rights helps ensure that our approaches are aligned with national priorities. It is an integral part of the broader development agenda.” Meanwhile, Commission on Hu-
man Rights (CHR) chairperson Richard Palpal-latoc said the Philippines is set in a complex and evolving humanrights landscape: “The last decade alone has been marked by significant challenges, [which saw] extrajudicial killings, erosion of press freedom, shrinking civic spaces, systemic issues impacting indigenous peoples, the Covid-19 pandemic’s exacerbation of socioeconomic inequalities, and the devastating effect of natural disasters linked to climate change.”
He expressed the CHR’s deepest gratitude to the Norwegian government and to the OHCHR for their support, commitment and invaluable partnership in supporting a shared vision of a more just, inclusive and rights-respecting Philippine society: “We look forward to an enduring and fruitful collaboration, united by our common goal of making human rights a reality for everyone.”
Adviser of the UN Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights Senior Human Rights Signe Poulsen and country manager of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime Daniele Marchesi joined the signing ceremony. Both acknowledged the importance of continuing the rights-based approaches and building on the gains achieved through previous human-rights partnerships and cooperation. According to its embassy, Norway is a strong supporter of human rights and democracy in the Philippines and around the world. It recognizes the importance of human rights and rule of law as fundamental to functioning democracies.
SEC. Gen. Anne-Marie Descôtes and Amb. Marie Fontanel inaugurated the new premises of the Embassy of France to the Philippines and Micronesia.
AMB. HK Yu (seated, second from right) and the indigenous leaders who will take part in the cross-cultural fellowship
Speech by Amb. Mohamed Alqataam Alzaabi
AMB. Mohamed Alqataam Alzaabi
AMB. Christian Halaas Lyster (left) and Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzales
AMB. Jaime FlorCruz with Filipino chef Michelle Adrillana (right) and executive chef Luca Pulese PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN CHINA
DSWD’s ‘Walang Gutom Kitchen’: A Christmas feast of compassion editorial
The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s recent launch of “Walang Gutom Kitchen” is more than just a timely initiative; it’s a powerful testament to the spirit of compassion and the potential of collaborative action. Coming on the heels of Christmas, the program’s unveiling resonates deeply, offering hope to those grappling with involuntary hunger. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “DSWD launches drive vs involuntary hunger,” December 16, 2024).
This initiative, housed in a repurposed space previously occupied by a POGO hub, transforms a symbol of potentially exploitative industry into a sanctuary of sustenance.
The program’s success hinges on a crucial public-private partnership. The impressive list of private sector partners—including major food corporations, charitable organizations, and industry associations— demonstrates a remarkable commitment to addressing a critical social issue. This collaborative effort not only provides immediate relief in the form of hot meals but also tackles the pervasive problem of food waste, a significant ethical and economic concern. By diverting surplus food from landfills to those in need, “Walang Gutom Kitchen” models a sustainable and responsible approach to resource management.
Secretary Rex Gatchalian’s vision for “Walang Gutom Kitchen” as an “open kitchen” for vulnerable populations, including street families and individuals under the Pag-Abot Program, is commendable. It moves beyond mere charity to address the systemic issue of hunger as a matter of social justice. The program’s focus on sustainability and innovation ensures its long-term impact, aligning with the DSWD’s broader mission of alleviating hunger.
The presence of First Lady Marie Louise Araneta-Marcos at the launch underscores the government’s commitment to this crucial initiative. Her participation, alongside key DSWD officials and representatives from partner organizations, symbolizes a united front against hunger, sending a strong message of solidarity and hope to the beneficiaries.
The quote by an unknown author, “In a hundred years, your bank account won’t matter...but the world could be significantly changed because you made a difference in a child’s life,” beautifully underscores the enduring significance of simple acts of kindness.
“Walang Gutom Kitchen” is not just a kitchen; it’s a symbol of hope, a testament to the power of collaboration, and a practical demonstration of the commitment to alleviate hunger.
During this season of joy and giving, let us remember those who are facing involuntary hunger and hardship. As we gather with our loved ones around festive tables laden with abundance, there are many in our communities who struggle to put even a simple meal on the table. The gift of nourishment is one of the most profound acts of generosity we can offer, as it not only sustains bodies but also uplifts spirits and restores hope.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those experiencing hunger by extending a helping hand and sharing whatever we can. Whether it’s donating to a feeding program or simply reaching out to those in need, each act of kindness, no matter how small, can have a ripple effect of compassion and care. Let us embody the true spirit of Christmas by opening our hearts and giving generously to ensure that no one in our community goes to bed hungry this holiday season.
BusinessMirror
Opinion
TTHE BUILDER
heR e were many challenges that we faced this year. The drought in the early part of 2024 constricted the agriculture production of our farmers while the series of strong typhoons in the latter part of the year wreaked havoc on properties and flooded several communities in Luzon.
On the economy, our kababayans contended with high inflation rate and elevated rice prices at the onset of 2024 while businessmen had to deal with high interest rates.
Through it all, Filipinos persevered and showed their patented resilience against adversities. We survived the odds and remain optimistic for the coming year.
Our economy remains intact and fundamentally sound. The gross domestic product (GDP) grew 5.8 percent in the first three quarters of 2024, surviving the prolonged dry season and El Niño, and the fierce typhoons brought by La Niña.
Our GDP growth rate, despite global challenges and extreme weather, makes as one of the fastestgrowing economies in Asia. I have to congratulate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his economic team and the whole Cabinet, for that matter, for keeping the Philippine economy
T. Anthony C. Cabangon
Lourdes M. Fernandez
Jennifer A.
D. Edgard A. Cabangon
afloat and on course to achieving its goals.
I am confident that the economy will perform better in the last quarter of year. Holiday spending, more stable commodity prices and the usual robust remittance inflows from our overseas Filipino workers will boost the economic performance further toward the end of the year.
Our labor market, meanwhile, remains strong, with the unemployment rate at 3.9 percent as of October 2024. International credit rating agencies are on our side and are impressed with our economic strides.
S&P Global Ratings upgraded its outlook on the Philippines to positive from stable, reflecting the economy’s above-average growth potential and its significant improvements.
S&P took note of the strong economic recovery of the Philippines in the last two years and the ongoing reforms to support business and investing conditions. The agency said
the ratings may be raised, “if the government achieves more rapid fiscal consolidation.”
The Philippines, is indeed, edging closer to an A credit rating after recent upgrades from three international debt watchers.
“I have always been confident that we can achieve an ‘A’ rating for all credit rating agencies and now, with this latest upgrade from S&P, we are getting closer to achieving this dream,” says Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman.
S&P affirmed the Philippines’ “BBB+” long-term and “A-2” shortterm sovereign credit ratings, with the transfer and convertibility assessment remaining at “A-.”
The S&P report cited the “country’s solid economic outlook anchored by the government’s infrastructure drive and pro-business policies.”
Infrastructure spending reached P1.143 trillion from January to September this year, up 11.9 percent from P1.021 trillion in the same period last year. The outlay is expected to contribute to attaining the 6 percent to 7 percent growth target for 2024.
The government still holds the key to pump-priming the economy.
Per our economic managers, government spending is expected to hit P5.908 trillion (22.3 percent of GDP) by the end of the year.
It is also keeping infrastructure spending at 5 percent to 6 percent annually over the entire plan period.
The Philippines needs more roads and bridges, seaports and airports,
and digital infrastructure projects to bolster the economy and compete with our neighboring economies.
President Marcos is pushing reforms to make the Philippines more business-friendly and attractive to investors. These include laws that now allow foreign investors to bet more in areas like telecommunications, power generation and transportation. In addition, renewable energy sectors such as solar and wind allow 100 percent foreign ownership, The enactment of several laws in recent months, such as the CREATE MORE Act, the VAT Refund Mechanism for Foreign Tourists and the Amendments to the Agricultural Tariffication Act, are the reforms that we need to propel the Philippine economy.
The standard VAT refund system will encourage foreign tourists to spend more in our country, stimulating our domestic economy. As Finance Secretary Ralph Recto summed up, the increased tourism spending would result in higher state revenues, which in turn, could create more jobs, raise incomes and accelerate economic growth.
Combined with the widely known Filipino resilience, I am upbeat the Philippine economy will weather every challenge that will come its way. To our readers, MERRY CHRISTMAS!
For feedback e-mail to senatormarkvillar@ gmail.com or visit our web site: https://markvillar. com.ph
Plan to ban foreign fossil fuel finance collapses at OECD
TALKS on a plan by wealthy nations to throttle tens of billions of dollars in public support for oil and gas projects have broken down without agreement, weeks before President-elect Donald Trump takes office.
The EU, UK, US and other countries had sought the deal to limit export-credit agency finance for global fossil-fuel projects under the umbrella of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, a group of market-based economies. While improving transparency in export financing remains a target, the likelihood of a broader deal to curb support for hydrocarbon projects is now remote, said senior US officials, who asked to speak anonymously as the deliberations are private.
The failure is a blow for climate activists, who saw the proposed finance curbs as a critical way to free up funding for emission-free energy projects around the globe. Where the US under departing President Joe Biden had rallied behind additional restrictions, these are unlikely to win support under Trump, who has campaigned on promises to unleash American oil and gas development and is pushing allies
to buy more US energy.
“Transparency measures are not good enough,” said Adam McGibbon, a campaign strategist at the Oil Change International advocacy group. “We cannot afford another penny for fossil fuel expansion if we want to preserve a liveable planet.”
Although the EU advanced a plan last year, talks only began in earnest on a new, US-proffered compromise approach in November, after Trump won the presidential election. The negotiations had previously stalled for months because of concerns from the US Export-Import Bank, an independent agency whose charter prohibits denying financing against any particular industry, sector or business.
During a meeting in Paris in November, the US proposed incorporating a technology-neutral, emissions-based threshold for financing that was seen as compatible with the charter. That policy innovation
allowed the US to support the EU proposal while still maintaining fidelity with the statutory constraints imposed on the US bank, one of the officials said.
Troubled talks
BUT it wasn’t enough. Weeks of frenzied negotiations—including a session in Paris and subsequent virtual meetings—couldn’t overcome concerns about national security, competition and emissions accounting advanced by South Korea and Turkey. Countries also wrestled with technical questions around the appropriate methodologies for calculating the emissions of various energy projects, necessary to ensure transparency and national-level compliance, one of the officials said.
OECD members have a longstanding agreement that effectively allows them to use export-credit agencies to give preference to domestic companies in international deals without running afoul of World Trade Organization rules. The club’s 38 countries have an incentive to abide by OECD policies governing the practice since they help ensure a level playing field.
For years, the group has precluded support for unabated coal projects; the latest effort would have put most oil and gas limits off limits too. Export-credit agencies in OECD countries financed an average of $41 billion annually in oil and gas projects, according to data compiled by environmental advocates. Even in the US, that finance has continued to flow, despite Biden’s pledges to cut it off. Seven days into his presidency, Biden directed US agencies to “promote ending international financing of carbon-intensive fossil fuel-based energy.” And in December 2021, the US signed onto an international declaration committing to “end new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector,” except in very limited circumstances. Just this week, the US export-import bank is set to vote to approve a loan potentially worth $527 million to help Guyana develop
Mark Villar
Norway companies rush to put women on boards before deadline
NORW eGIAN companies are nearing a key year-end deadline to populate their boards with women. But they’re short by thousands.
The push for increased equality at the echelons of corporate power dates back almost two decades in Norway, and late last year a law was introduced mandating no more than 60 percent of one gender on boards of directors. In practice, that often means ensuring at least 40 percent of executives are women.
Of the about 8,000 companies which will need to comply by December 31, many have been dragging their feet. With only days to go until it’s 2025, they’re speeding up recruitment.
“Many companies have been in a rush in the past months,” said Hege Rodland, founder of Matae AS, a company that works with strategy and recruitment to male-heavy boards.
She says having women on boards broadens discussions and ensures better decision making— and women usually come more prepared to meetings. Still, there is resistance. “Some companies are planning to reduce the size of their boards” to comply with the new rules, she says.
The law is applied gradually: This first year, it only concerns the largest companies with revenue of more than 100 million kroner ($8.8 million). That means about 5,000 more women will have to join boards in the coming days, according to government figures.
The consequences of non-compliance are potentially dire: a court can ultimately shut the company down. In practice, it’s more likely that companies will eventually conform even if they miss the deadline, Rodland said.
In September, Rodland went through the gender composition of
Opinion
Riddle me this: What are digital services?
Tboards in her region Vestlandet, on the country’s west coast, and found that only roughly one in four companies were in compliance. Most companies had about 20 percent women board members, she said. There’s no updated national data available.
The bigger issue for companies still looking to beef up their boards is that “there will be tough competition for the most qualified ones,” Rodland said, adding the challenge for many companies is to look outside their traditional recruiting grounds. By 2028 the law will apply to roughly 20,000 companies, according to estimates by Norway’s business association, NHO. Another 8,000 women are needed by that year, the government has calculated.
One company that’s been working on pipelining women for leadership roles is DNB Bank ASA, Norway’s biggest bank. It’s not a coincidence that women hold its top jobs, Chief Financial Officer Ida Lerner said.
The bank is focused on always having a qualified pool of women ready to step up, she said in an interview with Bloomberg, adding that equality needs to be kept high on the agenda.
“Once you stop engaging with this, you fall behind,” Lerner said.
Rodland, who works to source women board members, said companies will eventually come around, even if they’re reluctant to comply now.
She compares it to banning smoking inside restaurants, a law Norway introduced in 2004, saying “everyone was skeptical” at first, but “now we love the clean air.”
“Companies, too, will come to see the benefits of diversity,” she said. Bloomberg News
EU’s gold standard for green bonds seen to create new market segment
By Greg Ritchie | Bloomberg
THE European Union’s longawaited rules for green bonds took effect over the weekend, though the strict criteria mean only a limited pool of borrowers may adopt them for now.
The European Green Bond Standard is designed to help stamp out greenwashing in the burgeoning market for bonds that fund climatefriendly projects. Going forward, the EU says alignment with the rules is necessary if issuers want to market their debt as a “European green bond.”
It’s the bloc’s effort to provide a gold standard for a market that has a mishmash of industry guidelines and labels, led by the International Capital Market Association’s Green Bond Principles. The EUGBS remains voluntary as well, and bankers say it’s likely most debt issuers will refrain from meeting its more-stringent conditions in the coming year.
“The larger part of the market will keep using the ICMA green bond standard,” said Hans Biemans, head of sustainable markets at ING Groep NV. Issuers with large volumes of “relatively simple green assets” such as renewable energy utilities are the most likely to take it up, he said.
The rules became available to borrowers on December 21 after being agreed by lawmakers in early 2023, following years of negotiations. The market is continuing to expand globally, defying a US pushback against ESG investing, with around $560 billion of green bonds issued this year alone.
Some of the key criteria of the EUGBS are that at least 85 percent
of bond proceeds are aligned to the EU’s green taxonomy, a separate and overarching rule book for sustainability. All of the projects must abide by a “do no significant harm” condition, and must be certified by a designated EU green bond reviewer approved by the European Securities and Markets Authority.
While the extra work required may deter many, it’s possible the lure of potentially lower borrowing costs will convince those with enough eligible projects. Money managers may favor bonds adhering to the standard given their alignment with the taxonomy, as that could help to attract inflows from investors with sustainable mandates.
“It may be that EU sovereigns, supranationals and agencies, together with pure-play green companies, are the first” to use the label, wrote a team at law firm A&O Shearman. After that, it “may become increasingly popular as more issuers get used to the growing environment of sustainability reporting.” Tammo Diemer, co-director of the German Finance Agency, said earlier this month that while it will “take up the suggestions of the taxonomy and increase transparency,” it has no intention to apply the green bond standard.
Austrian Treasury Managing Director Markus Stix also said his country has no intention to issue EUGBS bonds next year, saying there remain questions about its compatibility with a national green framework.
That will leave market participants watching to see how many green bond issuers decide to align with it, and how their debt prices relative to peers.
atty. Jomel n. Manaig
Tax Law for Business
he imposition of VAT on digital services is not considered as a new tax. Nonetheless, the law provided for a variety of new concepts for taxpayers: the expansion of what is considered as being performed in the Philippines, the reverse-charge mechanism, and the automated registration for nonresident service providers, to name a few.
There is a slew of complicated topics that may be probed. But for today, let me invite you to take a step back and focus on a more fundamental and rudimentary aspect of this new law. Before we even think about imposing VAT on digital services, let’s first ask ourselves: what are digital services?
The law provided a definition for digital services but let me break it down into two simple elements. The first element requires that digital services must be “supplied over the Internet or other network with the use of information technology.” On the other hand, the second element insists that digital services must be “essentially automated”.
This definition was copied verbatim in the draft Revenue Regulations (RR) seeking to implement the new law. However, the RR included a range of services it deems as digital services but lacked one or both of the elements. This may lead to confusion and the erroneous characterization of what digital services really cover.
These two elements must be clarified further in the RR to avoid confusion and erroneous implementation of the law.
First element: Supplied over the Internet or other network with the use of information technology.
There is much confusion here due to the simple reason that the Internet is ubiquitous in modern business transactions. But should anything and everything done with the use of the Internet be labeled as digital services? I proffer that it should not.
A clear distinction must be made between using the Internet as mode of “supplying the service” and its use as a mere mode of communication. In other words, if the service may be supplied without the use of the Internet (or other network), then the service should not be considered as digital service for purposes of imposing VAT.
The mere fact that the Internet was used should not be the ultimate determinant of what is a digital service. For example, the services of a nonresident service provider transmitted via the Internet (e.g. e-mail) should not automatically be considered as a digital service if the same could have been transmitted through other means such as through couriers or other physical delivery services.
The supply over the Internet should be of such importance that the digital service could not have been performed without it. Other-
The law provided a definition for digital services but let me break it down into two simple elements. The first element requires that digital services must be “supplied over the Internet or other network with the use of information technology.” On the other hand, the second element insists that digital services must be “essentially automated”.
wise, its use as a mode of communication is merely incidental and has nothing to do with the performance of the service itself.
Second element: Essentially automated.
Considering the nature of digital services, I believe it should mean that the service should require minimal or even no human intervention. So much so that the service provider does not have to interfere, carry, or perform any activity but the consumer will still be able to acquire or download the digital service.
In other words, if a human had any substantial active input in the actual performance of the service, then such service cannot be considered as essentially automated. Consequently, it should likewise not be considered as a digital service. I do realize that with the advancement of technology, more and more services are requiring less and less human intervention. What was once the sole domain of human activity may now be performed by chatbots and other artificial intelligence (AI) platforms – thus, transforming services traditionally performed by humans into digital services. Which is why it is extremely important to delineate what is considered as “essentially automated.”
For example, if a customer sought the opinion of a nonresident service
provider, the rendering of the opinion may be considered as a digital service or not depending on who/what performed the actual service. If the opinion was made and prepared by a human, then the service should not be considered as a digital service due to the person’s active intervention. On the other hand, if the opinion was made by the customer prompting his question through a chatbot or an AI assistant, then it is rightly considered as a digital service since the supply of the service was essentially automated (lacking any human interference from the nonresident service provider).
It is interesting to note that we share the same basic definition of digital services (including the two elements) as some of our neighbors, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. The only difference is that they clarified, either in the law itself or in the implementing rules and regulations, the scope and limitations of those two elements. This has led to our neighbors having consistent and reliable implementation of their respective digital service taxes.
We hope the Bureau takes note of these clarifications and includes the recommendations in the final version of the RR. This would promote a standard and fair implementation of the new law at par with our regional counterparts.
The author is a junior partner of Du-Baladad and Associates Law Offices (BDB Law) (www. bdblaw.com.ph), 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 jomel.manaig@ bdblaw.com.ph or call 8403-2001 local 140.
Trump upending global politics a month before taking office
hIS second term doesn’t start for a month, but Donald Trump is already sending shock waves around the world. his trade threats helped set off a cabinet crisis in Canada that has Prime Minister Justin Trudeau teetering. In europe, tariff fears have weakened already-wobbling governments.
Allied leaders are racing to find ways to keep up support for Ukraine as Trump drives for a quick deal to end Russia’s invasion. The prospect of talks has both sides pushing on the battlefield, with Moscow using its most sophisticated missiles and Kyiv taking the fight to the Russian capital with the brazen assassination of a general.
In the Middle East, the Trumpfriendly leaders of Israel and Turkey are pressing for advantage as Iran, a perennial target of the incoming president, reels from setbacks for its proxies Hezbollah and Hamas and the abrupt fall of the dictator it backed in Syria.
China, which has largely avoided Trump’s post-election social media spotlight so far, is shoring up its trade defenses ahead of what’s expected to be an onslaught from the new administration.
“We’re on Trump time and we want to get stuff done in a hurry,” Keith Kellogg, the retired general Trump has named as his special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, told Fox Business on Dec. 18 as he prepared for his first trip to the region - even before the inauguration. “He made promises on the campaign trail and we’re going to fulfill those promises.”
While it’s not unusual for political leaders at home and abroad to jockey for the ear of an incoming president, the scale of Trump’s preinauguration influence is vast.
“There’s new light all over the world, not just here,” Trump claimed in a Phoenix speech Sunday.
That came after he’d warned Panama that the US objects to rates to use the Panama Canal and is concerned about growing Chinese influence over the conduit—going so far as to say he might demand its return to American control. Panama’s president retorted that his country’s
sovereignty over the canal is nonnegotiable.
Domestically, he spent the last week steering talks on a spending bill to avoid a government shutdown. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said policymakers are beginning to factor in some of the president-elect’s potential moves, such as tariffs. The US stock market and Bitcoin have rallied since the election, something Trump likes to take credit for. President Joe Biden, meanwhile, has all but vanished from the stage.
For the world, the turmoil is a taste of what the new Trump term is likely to bring, as the incoming president pushes his “America First” agenda without many of the guardrails that constrained his first term. Populist forces are on the rise in many countries, with Trump allies challenging establishment leaders.
Fresh from a tweet storm that influenced the spending-bill talks in Washington, billionaire Trump confidant Elon Musk Friday turned his attention to Europe, endorsing the far-right AfD party as the only way to “save Germany.”
That earned him a rebuke from embattled Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who faces snap elections in February with support for his party dropping amid deepening economic woes. Musk stepped up the pressure Saturday, calling on Scholz to resign after a deadly attack on a Christmas market.
In the UK, Trump’s ascent has emboldened Nigel Farage of the populist Reform UK party, who met with Musk at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate last week. UK lawmakers are weighing changing donation rules to prevent Musk from barging in.
The stakes are possibly highest for Ukraine, where Russia’s full-scale invasion is nearly three years old and allied support for Kyiv is showing signs of flagging.
Trump isn’t promising to deliver a deal to end the fighting even before he takes office as he did on the campaign trail, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has already given up his earlier demand that Russia cede all the land it’s taken as part of any ceasefire deal.
Germany’s Scholz held his first direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in two years last month, drawing fierce criticism from Zelenskiy. Until now, it’s largely been Hungary’s Viktor Orban—a Putin sympathizer whom Trump is fond of - seeking to act as an intermediary.
On Sunday, Trump himself left the door open to meeting the Kremlin leader, who he claimed “wants to meet me as soon as possible.” Scholz said this month he’s “confident that we can develop a joint strategy for Ukraine.” He has continued to decline to provide Ukraine with long-range Taurus missiles, breaking from Biden’s policy—one Trump thinks is a mistake.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with Trump by phone and picked Peter Mandelson, a Labor Party veteran and trade specialist, as envoy to Washington. That choice drew criticism from Trump’s former campaign co-manager, Chris LaCivita, who called Mandelson “an absolute moron.”
Trump’s impending arrival has also buoyed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has aligned himself with Trump, who faces fewer political pressures than Biden over the death toll from fighting in Gaza.
Netanyahu also sent troops further into Syria after the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime. Turkey, whose leader is another Trump ally, is expanding its reach Syria through groups it supports.
“All of these leaders in the Middle East, they know the former president, now the president-elect, they know his team, so it’s kind of a unique moment in history where you have two presidents, and their teams, working on the ceasefire at the same time,” Morgan Ortagus, a former State Department spokeswoman during Trump’s first term,
said on Bloomberg Television’s Balance of Power, referring to talks on a deal in Gaza.
In India, Trump’s arrival has coincided with an emboldened Narendra Modi preparing to host Putin for the first time since Russia invaded Ukraine. Modi is one of the world leaders Trump has cultivated through praise and shows of friendship. China is preparing tools for a potential trade war in the form of limits on exports of critical minerals to the US. China has embarked on something of a charm offensive, including with US allies, ahead of Trump’s return—while also preparing tools for a potential trade war in the form of limits on exports of critical minerals to the US and by signaling a warming with both Japan and India.
“In 2016, there was this constant sense of uncertainty, of alarm,” said Jon Alterman, director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “Now there’s a fairly robust data set of how Trump behaved and how other countries behaved in reaction to him, and what worked well and what didn’t.” But leaders are already learning that the carefully crafted strategies for dealing with the incoming president don’t always play out as planned. After Trump threatened to slap a 25 percent tariff on imports from Canada, Trudeau hopped on a plane to Trump’s Florida estate to talk the issue over at dinner. Then he offered a border-security plan to assuage Trump’s concern (even though Canadian officials say migrant flows across the frontier are tiny).
Trump’s camp touted that as an early victory. “President Trump is already acting as the president,” Karoline Leavitt, his incoming press secretary, said on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures. For his part, Trump offered no concessions and has spent the weeks since the dinner trolling Trudeau, suggesting Canada should become the 51st US state and complaining about the trade imbalance between the countries. Bloomberg News
Tuesday-Thursday, December 24-26, 2024
‘BSP’s gradual approach in cutting rates is right call’
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) believes the gradual approach taken by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in reducing rates is the right call to better manage supply shocks.
I n a report released after the 2024 Article IV consultations between the Philippines and the IMF, the Washington-based lender said along with a “datadependent” monetary policy approach and forward guidance, the country will have a better chance of weathering shocks.
The BSP earlier said that it will maintain an easing posture next year, but it considers as “excessive” a 100-basis-point (bps) reduction in key policy rates, because inflation could rear its ugly head again in 2025. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/12/20/bsp-unlikely-tocut-key-rates-by-100-bps/).
“ The BSP has room to ease the policy rate gradually towards a neutral stance. With inflation and inflation expectations returning towards target and the output gap
turning negative, a continued gradual reduction in the policy rate is appropriate,” the IMF also said.
However, the IMF said that while Philippine banks have sufficient liquidity, capital buffers, and bad loans are low, the BSP should be ready to “adjust macroprudential policy” to mitigate the buildup of pockets of vulnerabilities.
“Parts of the commercial real estate sector have seen persistently high vacancies and falling rents, and non-performing housing loans remain elevated. The rapid growth in consumer loans warrants close monitoring,” IMF said.
Realty gaps from POGO exit NONETHELESS , IMF said the BSP observed that the real estate vacancies created by the exit of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators
FAO: Tie-ups among govt, academe, private sector vital to agrifood’
By Ada Pelonia
STEADY communication between the government, academe, and the private sector could improve the country’s agrifood system, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) said.
FAO Representative in the Philippines Lionel Dabbadie said addressing the agrifood system, which involves the capacity to deliver food to consumers, requires unwinding the coil of complexities in food production.
Working on the food system is important because it’s not a chain. We talk about value chain, but in reality, it’s not value chain. There are a lot of complexities in the middle and we need to tackle these complexities,” Dabbadie told the BusinessMirror in an interview.
For one, he expressed concern over the seeming disconnect between the academe and the production sector, particularly with innovations that do not reach the latter.
“ One thing that is not working very well, I think in the Philippines, is the connection between the academe and the production,” Dabbadie said.
H e noted that the country’s agriculture sector is brimming with inventions that are being applied by other countries but not the Philippines.
W ith the food system that encompasses the academe, consumers, and government, Dabbadie stressed the need “to make sure that the things are working well so that the inventions from the academe can reach the production sector.”
‘Innovation system’
“THE academe has inventions, they have a lot of inventions, but most of these inventions do not translate into practice,” Dabbadie said.
H e noted that for these inventions to turn into reality, there should be an environment
that is favorable to the emergence of innovation.
Th is system could be created through investing in the knowledge network between people, he added.
“ You make sure that the people, they know what is available, they know each other, they talk to each other, they brainstorm [...] that’s what we call the innovation systems,” Dabbadie said, noting that this comes part and parcel of the agrifood system.
A mong the programs he mentioned that favor innovation in the country are the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Agri-Industrial Business Corridors (ABCs) and the FAO’s Farmer Field School (FFS).
D abbadie said ABC is an “interesting model” since it clusters farmers and orients public investment. To improve the innovation system, he said the ABCs could be maximized.
With FFS, he explained that it is part of agricultural extension which is also crucial for innovation. Unlike a top-down extension system where farmers only listen, FFS gravitates toward hands-on group learning.
I really believe that innovations [are] the result of the connections between the people,” Dabbadie said.
“In the Philippines, I think you have almost all the elements. It’s just about making the connections.
If you create the connections, then the system will start working well and operate well.”
(POGOs) can be absorbed by traditional residents.
Further, IMF noted that the BSP disclosed that developers also possessed the flexibility to adjust project completion timelines.
IMF, however, said two stateowned banks, the Land Bank of the Philippines and Development Bank of the Philippines, should pursue capital-management strategies that strengthen their capital position.
The multilateral lender said that while the banks have capital requirements that are well-above the regulatory minima, the banks should avoid “non-payment of dividends to the national government.”
Better supervision THE IMF called for better financial supervision, especially with the DBP and LBP both invested in the Maharlika Investment Corporation’s (MIC).
“ Implementing capital restoration plans for two stateowned banks following their contribution to the Maharlika Investment Corporation’s [MIC] start-up capital and exiting regulatory relief as soon as possible is important,” IMF said.
“ While the establishment of the MIC can help address the
country’s investment needs; it should not come at the cost of a resilient financial system, sound regulatory framework, and levelplaying-field,” it added.
Earlier, the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) said it will come up with guidelines for the MIC highly technical positions and compensations as its organizational structure is still being finalized.
GCG Chairperson Marius P. Corpus told reporters the governing body has yet to establish the guidelines for highly technical positions and their compensation.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved the interim staffing pattern of non-highly technical positions and their compensation, he added. Corpus said the guidelines will likely be approved next year, but still not definite. “Anything can come up. So, we have to really finalize and refine the guidelines.”
Despite the slowdown in arranging MIC’s organizational structure, Corpus said the staterun corporation could already proceed with its investments.
(See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2024/11/26/gcg-readies-guidelines-for-maharlikaskey-positions/).
GOODBYE, BOOKLET! DOH LIFTS RULE FOR SENIOR DISCOUNTS
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3
JUST in time for Christmas!
E lderly persons can still avail themselves of the 20-percent discount for medicines even if they fail to present their purchase booklet to drugstores.
The Department of Health (DOH) is making it convenient for senior citizens to avail their discount when buying medicines sans a purchase booklet.
Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa on Monday signed a new DOH administrative order (AO) removing the requirement of a purchase booklet for senior citizens availing of tiscount on medicines following the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010. I am also a senior citizen. I know it is hard to always bring a purchase booklet with you. Seniors need the discount on their medicines, and we must make it easy for them to get that,” said Herbosa. DOH AO No. 2024-0017 deletes the requirement for seniors to present a purchase booklet to drugstores, which before accompanied valid identification and a doctor’s prescription, in order to get a discount.
“On behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we at the DOH give this gift of convenience and more affordable medicines to all of our senior citizens. Merry Christmas po!” Herbosa said.
‘Bye-bye booklet’ HOUSE Ways and Means Chair Joey Sarte Salceda (Albay, 2nd district) lauded the DOH for heeding House’s call to remove the purchase booklet requirement.
“Byebye booklet. I thank the DOH for making permanent the change we requested in the House’s joint committee hearings on senior citizens’, PWD, and solo parents’ benefits. It’s a long overdue change. Salamat PBBM and salamat, Secretary Ted Herbosa.”
During the House hearings, it was brought up that the booklet requirement often causes senior citizens to get denied essential medicines. Senior citizens often forget these documents, or lose them.”
“ The 20-percent medicine discount, along with the VAT-free treatment for a significant number of medicines, has been a lifesaver for many senior citizens.”
Trading of RE certs starts Dec. 26, says DOE
TBy Lenie Lectura @llectura
HE trading of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will officially commence on December 26, marking the full commercial operation of the Renewable Energy Market (REM), the Department of Energy (DOE) announced Monday.
The RECs are market-based instruments representing one megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generated from eligible renewable energy (RE) facilities, such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass. Issued to mandated participants, the REC is currently capped at a price of P241.56 per MWh as determined by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).
The REM provides a platform for trading these certificates, en-
abling participants to meet their renewable energy compliance obligations under the Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS). The RPS, meanwhile, requires distribution utilities (DUs), electric cooperatives (ECs) and retail electricity suppliers to source 2.5 percent of their energy supply from eligible RE resources. Under existing rules, renewables should account for at least 11.4 percent of the total energy sales of mandated participants.
The full commercial operation of the REM is pivotal in advancing the country’s clean energy transition,” said DOE Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla. “It supports compliance with the RPS, fosters investment in renewable energy, and ensures a robust framework for sustainable energy trading.”
He stressed that the REM is a cornerstone mechanism un-
der the Renewable Energy Act of 2008, designed to drive the development of renewable power projects and bolster the country’s transition to clean energy. The initiative aligns with the government’s ambitious RE targets of achieving at least 35 percent in the power generation mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040. Cu rrently, around 285 participants, including generators, distribution utilities, and end-users, are anticipated to register with the REM. The participants represent 90 percent of the expected 328 on-grid participants that had registered in the REM. The DOE projects that REC trading will significantly contribute to meeting RPS requirements and stimulate growth in RE capacity.
L otilla expressed his appreciation to the ERC, the Independent Electricity Market Operator
of the Philippines, the Philippine Electricity Market Corporation, and private stakeholders for their collaborative efforts with the DOE in ensuring the readiness and operationalization of the REM. He noted that the trading and usage of RECs are expected to become more frequent as renewable energy demand continues to grow. O n-grid participants include RE generators and mandated participants such as distribution utilities, electric cooperatives, retail electricity suppliers and generators serving directly connected customers. The REM’s full operation is expected to provide a significant boost to the government’s target of expanding the share of renewables in the country’s energy mix to 35 percent by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040. It has been in interim operation since 2022.
LIGHTING UP THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT In Las Piñas City, carolers serenade a street merchant selling colorful parol lights, adding a radiant touch to the holiday spirit. NONIE REYES
See “Goodbye,” A2
Editor: Jennifer A. Ng
Tuesday-Thursday,
Natural gas deal of tycoons secures approval of PCC
By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia
The country’s antitrust body has given the green light to the joint acquisition of power facilities and a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal by Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGen), Therma Natgas Power Inc. (Therma) and San Miguel Global Power holdings (San Miguel Power).
The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) announced on Monday that it has approved the transaction. The deal, which is considered critical for strengthening the country’s energy supply, is subject to conditions aimed at ensuring fair competition and promoting transparency.
The transaction involves MGen and Therma, through their joint venture Chromite Gas Holdings Inc. (Chromite), acquiring a 67-percent equity interest in South Premiere Power Corp. (SPPC), Excellent Energy Resources Inc. (EERI), and Ilijan Primeline Industrial Estate Corp.
In addition, MGen and Therma, through Chromite, along with San Miguel Power, will jointly acquire
NNIC,
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
@lorenzmarasigan
R100 percent of Linseed Field Corp. (LFC), which operates the LNG terminal in Batangas City. As a result of these acquisitions, MGen and Therma, through their 60/40 ownership of Chromite, will control 67 percent of SPPC, EERI, and Ilijan Primeline, while San Miguel Power retains a 33-percent stake in these three entities and gains a corresponding interest in LFC.
During the review process, PCC said it identified “potential competition concerns,” including risks of coordination in the national power generation market and foreclosure in power supply deals with Distribution Utility Companies (DUs).
“In response, the ultimate parent companies—Pilipinas Enterprise
Management Holdings Inc. (PEMHI), Aboitiz & Company Inc., and Top Frontier Investment Holdings Inc.—submitted voluntary commitments on October 18, 2024 to address these issues.”
These commitments were reviewed and validated by the PCC, with input from industry players, stakeholders, the Department of Energy (DOE), and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). The PCC approved the resulting voluntary commitments on December 20.
“While the transaction supports the country’s energy security, the imposed conditions are vital to maintaining a competitive market. Key safeguards include PCC oversight of the Competitive Selection Process (CSP) to ensure power supply agreements are awarded through a transparent and competitive bidding process. This oversight aims to prevent collusion or unfair practice,” PCC said.
The acquired companies must also operate independently of their parent companies, with strict measures to separate IT systems, offices, and management to prevent coordination or undue influence. Boards of directors will include independent members, and internal trading units will operate independently of affiliates.
To promote transparency, power plants must submit reports on
unplanned outages to the PCC within seven days of reporting to the DOE. Additionally, Competitive Retail Electricity Market (CREM) reports must also be shared with the PCC. The parent companies are also required to appoint a competition compliance officer to monitor the fulfillment of these commitments.
The PCC will communicate to DOE and ERC the conditions imposed, as well as coordinate on the alignment of existing guidelines and policies with competition law and policy to curb competition concerns that may arise from similar transactions.
The agency said the conditions will remain in effect for five years, with possible extensions depending on market conditions. Violations could result in daily fines of up to P2 million per infraction, until the entity fully complies, in addition to other penalties and sanctions.
“These safeguards strike a balance between encouraging investments in critical energy infrastructure and ensuring a fair and competitive market that benefits consumers, businesses, and the broader economy. By addressing potential competition issues while supporting energy security, the approved transaction represents a key step toward bolstering the Philippines’s energy landscape.”
JoyRide tie up for taxi service
IDE - HAILING p latform
JoyRide PH Corp. said it has partnered with New Naia Infra Corp. (NNIC) to launch the Super Taxi Airport Edition— a metered, on-site taxi service designed to provide arriving passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Terminal (Naia) Terminal 3 with a new transportation option.
Unlike traditional ride-hailing services, JoyRide’s Super Taxi Airport Edition offers metered, on-site taxi services that eliminate the need for apps or prior bookings.
Passengers simply need to head to the designated lounge near the Multi-Level Parking Building at Terminal 3, where staff are ready to assist with their travel needs.
“We’ve observed that many travelers find it frustrating to navigate ride-hailing apps after a long flight, often facing delays
for driver matching. Inspired by dedicated premium airport taxi services in international hubs, the JoyRide Super Taxi Airport Edition simplifies the process— allowing passengers to secure a ride quickly and efficiently,” said Noli Eala, JoyRide SVP for Corporate Affairs. He cited recent reports from the Department of Tourism (DOT), which recorded 5.65 million foreign arrivals as of December 17, noting that this reflects the need
for more airport transfer options.
The JoyRide Super Taxi fleet is composed of Toyota Veloz vehicles, which accommodate up to four passengers and six pieces of luggage.
Eala noted that the partnership will help improve passenger experiences and elevate the airport’s image.
“With the Super Taxi Airport Edition, we are committed to changing perceptions and proving that Naia can deliver a worldclass transport service.”
Honda, Nissan formalize merger talks, aim to combine by 2026
HONDA Motor Co. and Nissan Motor Co. took their first historic steps toward merging and creating a new force in the world’s automotive industry, as aggressive competition from China forces legacy carmakers to rethink their business models.
The two Japanese auto manufacturers signed a basic agreement for merger talks on Monday, according to a joint media briefing held in Tokyo. Honda also said it will buy back as much as ¥1.1 trillion yen ($7 billion) of its own shares.
A holding company will be created to house the new entity and should be listed by August 2026, the firms said, adding that Honda will be able to nominate a majority of directors of the holding company.
Mitsubishi Motors Corp., which is 24.5 percent owned by Nissan, also signed the memorandum of understanding and will likely be part of the group with a final decision on that expected by the end of January. Honda’s buyback cancels a previously announced buy back of ¥100 billion and will start on Jan. 6 and run through most of 2025, according to Monday’s announcement. The company plans to repurchase as many as 1.1 billion shares, or al-
most 24 percent of its stock excluding treasury securities. Honda Chief Executive Officer Toshihiro Mibe said synergies from the combined company should lead to an increase in operating profit of more than ¥1 trillion, climbing to ¥3 trillion eventually. “Both companies will continue as wholly owned subsidiaries of the joint holding company with their respective brands in place,” Mibe said. The holding company will include the brands of both Honda and Nissan, and wrap in Honda’s large motorcycle unit.
Such an alliance would give rise to one of the world’s largest carmakers, pitting the trio against Toyota Motor Corp. at home and Chinese automakers including BYD Co. and Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. abroad. Toyota has stakes in Subaru Corp., Suzuki Motor Corp. and Mazda Motor Corp., creating a powerhouse of brands backed by its top-notch credit rating.
All three Japanese companies are to some degree facing an existential threat brought on by the global automobile industry’s breakneck shift to battery-powered electric vehicles
B1
By Lenie Lectura @llectura
SN Aboitiz Power Group (SNAP), a joint venture between Scatec and Aboitiz Power Corp., signed construction agreements for the expansion of its battery energy storage system (BESS) facility co-located at the Magat hydroelectric power plant in Ramon, Isabela. SNAP formalized engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) agreements with GEDI China Energy for the development of the 16-megawatt (MW) Magat BESS Phase 2. GEDI is a subsidiary of China Energy Engineering Group. This expansion builds on the 24MW Magat BESS Phase 1, which began commercial operation in January 2024. Construction for the second phase is set to begin in the first half of 2025, with commercial operations targeted to commence by the first half of 2026. “It is a great honor for us to provide contracting service to SNAP Magat BESS Phase 2 Project. In
return for your trust, we will fulfill our philosophy of careful planning, scientific management and well organizing, our working style of pragmatism, diligence and efficiency, to deliver the project with high quality performance,” said Chuangang Guo, deputy general manager of GEDI international branch.
SNAP Group President and CEO Joseph Yu said the company remains committed to providing innovative and sustainable energy solutions.
“The Magat BESS expansion underscores our mission to lead in the renewable energy space and accelerate the country’s transition to a more sustainable energy future,” said Yu. SNAP plans to build up to 1,000 megawatts of solar power capacity by 2030, a move that will further boost its RE goals. The Magat Hydroelectric Power Plant is one of the largest hydro facilities in Luzon, with a maximum output of 380 megawatts (MW). It draws water from the Magat river through the multi-purpose Magat dam.
and hybrid drivetrains and away from combustion engine cars.
In China, the soaring popularity of locally made EVs has foreign brands fighting for survival, and Japanese carmakers there are stuck with too much capacity. Honda and Nissan have both had to pare back staffing and production, while Mitsubishi Motors Corp. has all but extricated itself from China, the world’s biggest car market.
Meanwhile, a rebound in sales of hybrid gas-electric cars in North America has left Nissan on the backfoot while Toyota, a pioneer in hybrid technology, has received a welcome boost. Nissan missed that window of opportunity due to its outdated product lineup that was missing attractive options for hybrids, much less any competitive EVs.
For Nissan, the merger with Honda could provide much-needed relief after paltry sales in the US and China triggered a massive drop in revenue, forcing the battered carmaker to cut jobs, slash production capacity and lower its annual profit outlook by 70 percent. “Partnering with Honda isn’t a sign that we’re giving up on our plans to turn Nissan around,” Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida said Monday. Bloomberg News
Banking&Finance Finance chief sets higher bar for BIR, BOC
By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario
THE national government aims to post double-digit growth in revenue collections from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC), according to the Department of Finance (DOF).
In a recent interview with reporters, Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said faster economic growth and “efficiency gains” will boost BIR and BOC collections, respectively.
Recto said that the government is also expected to hit this year a revenue-to-GDP (gross domestic
product) ratio of 16.7 percent, which the Finance Secretary said would be the highest in 27 years.
“[The] BIR and BOC both will be challenging [because] the …average growth of the BOC is about 5 percent to 6 percent. Next year their target is at 11-percent growth, more
or less, 10 percent to 11 percent; the BIR, [around] 11 percent too. So we want to maintain [the momentum],” Recto said.
“This year I think we will hit an all-time high in 27 years, about 16.7 percent revenue to GDP. Average in the region [to note], the benchmark, is about 16 percent; so we’re not bad. I think next year we want to maintain at least 16.5 percent revenue-to-GDP [ratio],” the DOF chief added.
BIR collection, Recto said, will benefit from the expected improvement in the country’s GDP growth as well as efficiency in tax administration. He is also hoping that new tax measures will be passed to boost these efforts.
The Finance Secretary mused that if revenue growth target for the BIR is at 11 percent, there would be a 2-percent efficiency gain if GDP is at 6 percent and inflation is 3 percent,
assuming there’s no tax or revenue measures.
“That’s how we’re looking at it.”
For the BOC, Recto said the slowdown in inflation may reduce the BOC’s tariff collections next year. However, he remains confident that collection efficiency at the BOC will continue to improve next year.
“If you’re growing by 6 percent plus inflation of 3 [percent], 9 [percent], for example, and you grow by 11 [percent], 2 percent yung efficiency gain mo dun sa Customs. I would assume if the economy grows by 6 [percent], more or less, your imports will also grow by 6 [percent],” the Finance Chief explained.
“If the import numbers are lower, then there’s more efficiency gain.
Siguro kayang-kayang ng Customs yan; dapat,” he said.
According to Recto, the DOF’s non-tax revenue this year will help
End the year strong with a solid financial plan
AS the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and take control of your finances. The holiday season may be a time of giving and celebration, but it’s also the ideal moment to assess your financial health and prepare for the year ahead. By reviewing your progress, identifying areas for improvement, and setting new goals, you can start 2025 on solid ground, confident and ready to achieve even greater financial success.
Review your current budget
THE first step toward financial clarity is understanding how you’ve managed your money throughout the year. Start by evaluating your spending habits. Look closely at your monthly expenses and pinpoint areas where you’ve overspent, such as dining out, unnecessary subscriptions, or impulse buys. Next, analyze your cash flow. Compare your income to your expenses to determine whether you’ve been saving consistently or simply breaking even. If you notice any imbalances, now is the time to adjust your budget. Reflect any changes in your income, expenses, or priorities. Budgeting tools and apps can make this process more manage-
THE national government plans to secure over P600 billion from the domestic market in the first quarter of next year, according to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr). The BTr released its auction schedule for the first three months of 2025 for Treasury bills (T-bills) and Treasury bonds (T-bonds) with a total amount of P629 billion. This is 7.52 percent or P44 billion more than the P585 billion set in the same period last year (See: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2023/12/22/government-eyes-p585-billion-fromdomestic-market-in-q1/).
Based on the notice signed by the Treasurer of the Philippines
Sharon P. Almanza, the government intends to auction a total of P264 billion worth of T-bills and
able and help you stay on track.
Update your savings goals YOUR savings goals act as a roadmap for your financial future, and the end of the year is the perfect time to reassess them. Review the goals you set for 2024. Did you meet your targets? Whether it’s building an emergency fund, saving for a vacation, or preparing for a major expense, evaluate your progress and identify areas for improvement. If your emergency fund isn’t at three to six months of expenses, prioritize adding to it. Consider automating your savings to ensure consistency. As you plan for 2025, set new savings goals and break them into smaller, achievable targets to stay motivated.
Clear outstanding debts
DEBT is one of the biggest barriers to financial freedom, so tackling it should be a priority. Begin by listing all your debts, including credit cards, personal loans, and payment plans. Note their interest rates and due dates. Focus on paying off high-interest debts first to minimize costs, but don’t ignore the importance of staying current on all payments. If you’re struggling, reach out to creditors to negotiate better terms or explore debt consolida-
P365 billion worth of T-bonds. For the T-bills, the BTr announcement stated that P22 billion worth of T-bills will be auctioned every week in January through March 2025. The BTr will auction P7 billion worth of the 91-day and 182-day T-bills and P80 billion of the 264day bills.
The issue dates are January 8, 15, 22 and 30 followed by February 5, 12, 19, and 26 as well as March 5, 12, 19, and 26. Meanwhile, for T-bonds, the BTr will auction a P125 billion worth of debt papers in January; P115 billion in February; and P125 billion in March.
This will be composed of 5-year bonds with a volume offering of P30 billion slated for auction in January 9; 7-year
tion options. Commit to a repayment strategy, whether it’s the snowball method (paying off smaller debts first) or the avalanche method (targeting debts with the highest interest rates).
Prepare for taxes
TAX season may still be months away, but preparing in advance can save you time and headaches later.
Start by organizing important documents, such as pay stubs, receipts for deductible expenses, and records of charitable donations. Check if you’re eligible for year-end tax-saving opportunities, like making additional contributions to your retirement fund or donating to charity.
Take time to review your tax withholding to avoid surprises. If you’re self-employed, ensure your quarterly tax payments are up-to-date. If needed, consult a tax professional to identify strategies to reduce your liability and maximize your refund.
Reflect and set financial goals for 2025
REFLECTION is an essential part of growth.
Celebrate your financial wins from 2024, whether it was paying off a debt or hitting a savings target. At the same time, acknowledge any challenges you faced and think about how you can overcome them moving forward.
Set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals for 2025.
Whether it’s saving a certain percentage of your income, paying off a specific debt, or starting an investment portfolio, writing down your goals will make them more concrete and actionable.
Plan for future investments
INVESTING is a critical step to-
T-bonds worth P30 billion in January 16; 10-year bonds at P30 billion in January 23; and 3-year and 25-year bonds worth P35 billion in January 30.
For February, the BTr will auction P30 billion 5-year bonds on the 6th; P30 billion 7-year debt papers on the 13th; P30 billion 10-year bonds on the 20th; and 20-year T-bonds worth P25 billion on the 27th.
For March, BTr will issue 5-year bonds with a volume offering of P30 billion on the 6th; 7-year debt papers worth P30 billion on the 13th; 10year bonds worth P30 billion on the 20th; and 3-year and 25-year bonds worth P35 billion on the 27th.
Earlier, the national government’s borrowings drew close to the P2.570-trillion full-year program as it climbed by double digits
revenue-collection agencies meet their targets.
The target of the BIR is to collect P3.050 trillion while the BOC aims to collect P1.05 trillion this year. However, both agencies may fall short of their targets set by the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC).
Recto said the BIR could end the year with a total tax collection of P2.85 trillion while the BOC is expected to collect P940 billion this year.
“Kung kulang ang BIR at BOC ng 250 [billion]. We made it up with the DOF on non-tax revenue. So we surpassed our target this year, the DOF,” Recto said.
“The target was roughly P4.22 trillion thereabouts. [For the] BESF (Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing) this year, we achieved something like P4.42 trillion,” he added.
ward long-term wealth building.
Take time to evaluate how your current investments performed in 2024 and whether they align with your financial goals. Rebalancing your portfolio may be necessary to optimize returns and manage risks.
Explore new opportunities, such as stocks, mutual funds, or real estate, to diversify your portfolio. If you’re new to investing, consider starting small with beginner-friendly platforms or seeking advice from a financial professional.
Protect your finances
YOUR financial health isn’t just about earning and saving. It’s also about safeguarding what you’ve built.
Review your insurance policies to ensure your health, life, and property coverage is adequate and up-to-date. Take a moment to update the beneficiaries on your accounts and policies, especially if there have been changes in your personal circumstances. Address any gaps in your coverage, and don’t hesitate to upgrade your policies if needed.
Every step you take now, no matter how small, brings you closer to the freedom, stability, and opportunities you deserve. Don’t wait for the perfect time to act.
Start today! Let 2025 be the year you achieve your financial dreams and build the life you’ve always envisioned.
Janice Sabitsana is a Registered Financial Planner of RFP Philippines. The views she expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror’s. For more personal finance tips, visit her blog at www.pinayinvestor.com. Learn more about personal finance by attending the 109th Registered Financial Planner (RFP) program this January 2025. To know more about the program, please e-mail info@rfp.ph.
to P2.429 trillion as of the first 10 months of the year, to finance the fiscal deficit.
Latest data from the BTr showed that the government’s gross borrowings reached P2.429 trillion from January to October 2024, up by 23 percent from P1.975 trillion during the same period in 2023.
During the 10-month period, total borrowings accounted for 94.51 percent of the P2.570-trillion target for the year. Broken down, the bulk of the borrowings or 76.69 percent were sourced locally while the remaining 23.31 percent came from foreign lenders.
Domestic borrowings increased by 22.64 percent yearon-year to P1.863 trillion from P1.519 trillion. Cai U. Ordinario
Earlier, the DBCC said revenue collections increased by 16.8 percent reaching P3.77 trillion in the January to October 2024 period. This is expected to increase to P4.383 trillion or 16.5 percent of GDP by the end of the year. On average, the DBCC said revenue collections are expected to remain at 16.5 percent of GDP from 2025 to 2028, reaching P6.25 trillion or 17 percent of GDP by the end of the administration.
“This means that over the medium term, the government will be collecting a billion more in revenues a day annually,” the DBCC said. These will be supported by recalibrated legislative measures that will provide a significant revenue boost to the government, such as the recently enacted VAT on Digital Services Act, and by tax administration reforms centered on digitalization.
LGU gives 2nd tranche of cash aid to senior citizens
By John Eiron R. Francisco
IÑAN, LAGUNA—Over 18,650
Bsenior citizens in this city received the second wave of cash assistance from the local government unit (LGU) during the weekend, from December 21 to 22, at the Alonte Sports Arena.
City Mayor Walfredo R. Dimaguila Jr. told the BusinessMirror that the Local Social Pension Program, administered by the City Social Welfare and Development Office, provides qualified beneficiaries with an annual total of P6,000. This amount is divided into two distributions: P3,000 for the first half of the year (January to June) and P3,000 for the second half (July to December), effectively giving pensioners P500 per month.
Dimaguila said that the city allocates nearly P120 million annually on various programs for senior citizens.
“We prioritize our senior citizens, as well as persons with disabilities (PWDs) and solo parents,” Dimaguila said. In a separate interview, City Vice Mayor Angelo B. Alonte emphasized that, while they aim to increase the cash distribution for each local pensioner, their current priority is to ensure that as many people as possible benefit from the assistance.”
“Gusto natin mabigyan muna silang lahat, bago tayo mag isip na i-adjust o itaas ’yung ipamimigay,” he said. [We want to make sure everyone receives help first before we consider adjusting or increasing the amount given.] Echoing Alonte’s sentiments, Dimaguila explained that while national pensioners receive significantly higher amounts—around double what the local government provides—the number of recipients is much smaller. In contrast, the local government, he said, aims to assist a larger number of pensioners, even if the amount per individual is not as high as that given at the national level.
Support for indigents
DIMAGUILA also mentioned that in line with the Republic Act 11982, which amended RA 10868, senior citizens who reach milestone ages are eligible for additional benefits. The Expanded Centenarians Act (RA 11982) provides P10,000 to seniors at the ages of 80, 85, 90, and 95. Those who reach 100 years old continue to receive a cash benefit of P100,000 from the Philippine government. In line with this, Dimaguila confirmed that the city will provide an additional P100,000 to residents who reach 100 years old.
In addition to senior citizens, Dimaguila mentioned that groups such as solo parents, PWDs, and those living near train tracks have also received assistance. However, he acknowledged that the city cannot provide for everyone. He explained that it would not be sustainable if the LGU simply gives out assistance like the national government’s programs such as AKAP (Ayuda sa Kapos sa Kita Program) and AICS (Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation).
This was underscored when Dimaguila addressed concerns raised by some residents who questioned why not everyone received a Christmas basket from the LGU this year. He clarified that the provincial government allocated only P50 million for the baskets, but distributing them to all residents would cost an estimated P200 million or four times the original budget.
Sustainability first
THE mayor further clarified that local officials decided not to distribute the Christmas baskets to all residents as long-term projects were prioritized. These include the construction of colleges, two campuses of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), five science high schools, and the soon-to-open city hospital.
“Imagine if we spent all of it giving out baskets that would be gone in a week,” he emphasized, adding that the senior citizen program they implemented is a way to recognize and honor them.
Dimaguila, however, made clear that the local social pension program is unrelated to the upcoming 2025 mid-year election. He explained that the initiative has been in effect since 2021, with Alonte being the author of the local ordinance. Alonte, in turn, expressed optimism that the monthly distribution of P500 to senior citizens would increase. He extended his gratitude to local taxpayers for enabling the program and ensuring that assistance reaches the community.
In addition, Alonte encouraged potential investors to consider Biñan for their business ventures, assuring them that the city would take care of their needs.
“We will make sure to take good care of you. We can help you more, and we won’t make things difficult for you,” he said. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of paying the right taxes to ensure the community continues to benefit: “We just want to ensure that we pay the right taxes so that our constituents can benefit,” he said in a mix of Filipino and English.
This December 21, 2024, photo shows some senior citizens who received cash assistance from the local government of Biñan, Laguna. CREDIT: John E Ron R. FR anC sCo
Parentlife
The love in family festivity
FAMILY is one of life’s greatest gifts, but in today’s world, its definition has evolved far beyond traditional boundaries. Family is not just about who shares our DNA; it’s about who shows up, who loves us unconditionally, and who helps us grow. For many, family includes a blend of personalities—parents, siblings, and extended relatives, but also close friends, mentors, and even pets. Blended families, co-parenting arrangements, and “family by choice” are becoming more common as society embraces the reality and diversity of human relationships. The friend who checks in on you regularly, the neighbor who invites you over for dinner, or the pet that greets you with wagging its tail after a long day—all these connections embody the spirit of family.
I have learned a lot about the growing importance of inclusiveness, especially from my children. By welcoming friends, neighbors, or even our children’s classmates into our family circle, we teach them that love and support are what truly define a family. This inclusiveness fosters stronger communities and reminds us that family is more about connection than convention. The holiday season offers a special opportunity to pause and embrace the simplicity of life. Christmas is a time when the world slows down, allowing us to focus on what truly matters:
togetherness. For my family, Christmas has always been marked by traditions. Growing up, it was the clattering of mahjong tiles around the table that brought us together. I still remember all of us kids in our seats at the mahjong table, with our respective elder coaching us on our next moves. My grandfather would be my default mahjong coach. A big part of our Christmas tradition is also to my sister’s birthday.
As life evolved, so did our traditions. My dad started the tradition of Christmas travels—exploring new places while creating memories as a family. These adventures taught us the joy of discovering how Christmas was spent in other countries as our small family unit with my family, my sister and Dad. Now, with my daughter studying abroad, we’re pivoting once again. This year, our family tradition goes back to being cozily home. It’s a reminder that traditions don’t have to stay the same to be meaningful.
I would always spend Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve as a time for personal reflection. I encourage my children to do the same...to acknowledge all the gains and pains for the year and reflect on how lucky each of us are to have our own unique journeys. Below are some meaningful activities we can do as a family this season:
■ CREATE A GRATITUDE JAR: Set up a jar where every family member writes down something they’re grateful for each day. On Christmas or New Year’s Day, take turns reading them aloud. This simple activity fosters appreciation and positivity.
■ PLAN A FAMILY STORY NIGHT: Share stories from your childhood or ask your children to recount their favorite memories from the past year. Storytelling is a powerful way to connect across generations and preserve family history.
■ HAVE A SCREEN-FREE DAY: Dedicate one day to being completely unplugged. Use the time to play board games, bake cookies, or go for a walk together. Without the distraction of screens, you’ll find deeper
opportunities for conversation and connection.
■ START A NEW TRADITION: Whether it’s a holiday movie marathon, a family bike ride, or writing letters to each other, starting a new tradition creates excitement and strengthens bonds.
■ VOLUNTEER TOGETHER: Use the holiday break to give back to your community. Volunteering as a family teaches children empathy and the importance of helping others, while also creating shared memories. The warmth and joy of family festivities shouldn’t be confined to the holiday season. Here are some ways to continue nurturing that sense of connection throughout the year:
■ MONTHLY FAMILY CHECK-INS: Schedule a regular time each month to gather as a family, whether in person or virtually. Use this time to share updates, play games, or simply enjoy each other’s company.
■ CELEBRATE SMALL WINS: Don’t wait for big occasions to celebrate. Acing a test, completing a project, or even just surviving a tough week are all reasons to come together and cheer each other on.
■ KEEP TRADITIONS ALIVE: Whether it’s a weekly family dinner or an annual vacation, maintaining traditions helps create stability and continuity in your relationships.
■ STAY INCLUSIVE: Remember to keep the doors open for friends, neighbors, and other loved ones who may not have family nearby.
The love in family festivity is about more than just the holidays—it’s about cultivating a spirit of connection, gratitude and joy that lasts all year. By redefining family, embracing the simplicity of shared moments, and fostering traditions that adapt with time, I have evolved each year compiling not a wish list but a gratitude list “with no limits”, which for me is truly a priceless tradition to pass to my children.
Here’s to a year of love, laughter and limitless family festivity! ■
Are you catching holiday blues instead of cheer? Here are some ways to find peace
BY DEVNA BOSE The Associated Press
BELLS are ringing. Snow is glistening. But you’re bummed out. You could be suffering from a case of the holiday blues, which experts say is not uncommon. A strained relationship with family, for example, can make this time of year pretty lonely. The holidays are expensive, and financial woes can cause major stress. Anxiety about holiday anything can fuel depression and worsen existing mental health concerns.
“A lot of people at certain years can
find the holidays to be more challenging than they have experienced in past years,” said Shilagh Mirgain, a psychologist at UW Health in Madison, Wisconsin. “It’s important to recognize the common humanity that others, too, are struggling.
“You’re not alone.”
Here’s what experts say you can do to make your holiday season a little more bearable, if not cheery.
IF FAMILY TIME ISN’T SUPER FUN, SET BOUNDARIES SPENDING an extended amount of time with family is hard to avoid around the
holidays, Mirgain said, but there are ways to make it a little easier. “Certainly this year, I think with the recent election, there’s a lot of divisiveness and discord, and you’re probably having to interact with family members that have really opposing beliefs,” she said. “That can bring up strong emotions.”
Think about the boundaries you want to set: What kind of contact do you want to have with your family and how long are you prepared to be around them?
It’s also important to give yourself permission to exit the event—and have some strategies in place, she said. For
example, if you need some space, go on a walk or run some errands. And if stressful conversations come up, have some language ready to go to draw your boundaries quickly and firmly.
“You could say, ‘Gosh, thanks for asking, but I don’t talk politics over the holidays,’” Mirgain suggested.
IF YOU HAVE GRIEF OR ARE LONELY, CONNECT WITH OTHERS
THE holidays can be difficult for people who are grieving or don’t have anyone nearby
SEE “HOLIDAY,” B5
By Eugenia Last
can shed light on what is reliable and what is not. ★★★★★
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Kick back and enjoy the festivities. Get into the spirit of the season and consider what you are grateful for. Volunteering to help those less fortunate will give you a broader scope of how you want to live and what you can accomplish. ★★
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Don’t tempt fate. It’s important to digest what’s happening around you and determine how to protect yourself from getting swept up in someone else’s melodrama. Put your energy into self-evaluation and make a to-do list that encourages you not to leave anything standing between you and your goals. ★★★★
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Uncertainty will surround your connection to people you don’t see often. A supportive and attentive discussion will help you enhance your position and build trust that erases any doubt someone might have regarding your intentions. Be straightforward about your lifestyle and the changes you plan to incorporate. ★★★
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Get out and socialize or spend time with someone you love. Romance, commitment and plans are yours to pursue, and the chance to make a move or a personal change will lead to new beginnings. Cast your fate to the wind. ★★★
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Dig in and commence with the final touches that will make a difference as you put the past behind you to welcome what lies ahead. Accept an invitation or sign up for an event that is unique and offers an introduction to people who spark your interest.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Lean on your looks, friendly demeanor and effervescent qualities to win favors. Consider what’s possible and stretch your mind to accommodate whatever you need to know to reach your destination. Preparation is vital to outdo and outlast anyone trying to compete with you. ★★★★
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Heading to a place where you can congregate with people you love will make you think and discover what’s important to you. A shift in how you head into the new year is apparent; discarding what you no longer use will allow you to follow your dreams.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Expect to reap rewards. It’s your turn to shine and to feel good about your achievements. An updated look will appeal to someone you love, offering special attention and a renewed interest in you. A home improvement or move will enhance your bank account,
PISCES
Crossword
Edited by David Steinberg/Anna Gundlach/Adrian Johnson/Jared Goudsmit/Taylor
Love and kindness, comfort and joy
with whom to celebrate.
“Loneliness and isolation can feel exacerbated during the holiday season when you look around and it seems like everyone’s getting together and you don’t have plans, or you’re not looking forward to your plans,” Mirgain said. Find ways to connect with people if that’s something you’re craving, like scheduling calls with people across the country or volunteering in your community.
“There’s so much opportunity to give back during this time, and I think generosity is one of the best things we can do for our own well-being,” she said. And if you’re grieving the death of someone close to you, the holidays can be the perfect time to reflect on that person’s legacy, said Dr. Ellen Lee, a geriatric psychiatrist at UC San Diego Health.
“Try to honor that person by visiting their grave site or doing something they really loved to do, and then find people to share those memories with,” Lee said. She also advises people not to tamp down feelings but let yourself grieve.
IF MONEY IS MAKING YOU ANXIOUS, REACH OUT GIFTS, dinners, decorations—it’s all a lot to keep track of around this time of year, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Those extra expenses and get-togethers can put more stress on your mental health. For milder symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood issues, lean on tried-and-true methods of self-care, experts said, such as spending time doing something you love or watching a movie.
But it’s important to reach out for help if you start to feel mounting financial anxiety or intensifying symptoms that impair your ability to function. Early intervention can keep them from intensifying, Mirgain said, adding that if you have suicidal thoughts, reach out to your provider.
IF YOU ARE OVERWHELMED, SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS REMEMBER, your holidays don’t have to be a Hallmark movie. Give yourself permission to do it differently this year, Lee said.
“We have so many goals, so many targets,” she said.
“Getting all the gifts, decorating the house perfectly… sometimes it’s helpful to sort of focus on the most important part of it.” That can look different depending on who you are: The most important part may be spending time with people you don’t get to see often, or having a nice meal with your favorite foods. Lee emphasized that it is fine to have a low-key celebration.
“I ask people, ‘What’s the best part of the holiday?’” she said. “It’s not usually about the decorations or all these extra things that we all spend a lot of time worrying about.”
THE actress who is embroiled in a controversy involving a family member is said to be not nice at all. In fact, she is notorious for not doing even the bare minimum when it comes to dealing with people. In fact, those who work with her say they wouldn’t be surprised if she made up the controversy just to be in the limelight. Through the years, she has shabbily treated handlers and staff and crew of the shows and movies she has worked on. She also abuses them verbally when she doesn’t get her way.
A DIVA
IT will definitely be a beautiful Christmas for some of our celebrities and we share their happiness.
Janine Gutierrez has found love again and she is not hiding the fact that she more than enjoys the company of actor Jericho Rosales. Her bashers are puzzled about why Gutierrez continues to fall for actors who already have children like Rosales (and her former beau Paulo Avelino), when she is fully aware that she is a prized catch—a good actress, a trusted endorser, comes from a family of showbiz royalty, and also a graduate of the Ateneo de Manila University. But love is love and she’s old enough to decide on matters of her heart. It will be her first Christmas together with her new boyfriend.
Rigodon de amor is ever present in show business.
Gutierrez’s loss is Kim Chiu’s gain. The Cebuanese (Cebuana-Chinese) star is so smitten with her new man, Paulo Avelino, and although they have not categorically admitted to the public that they are together, everyone in the industry knows the truth.
The couple will star in a Valentine movie, titled My Love Will Make You Disappear, and we will see them busy promoting when the new year starts.
Olympian medalist Carlos Yulo and his love Chloe San Jose will surely have a most unforgettable double golden festive season now that the live-in lovers are multimillionaires. And we just have to be happy for them since they found love and seem very happy with each other.
Well-respected couple Nonie and Shamaine Buencamino are in cloud nine these days after winning coveted Aliw Awards. Nonie won as Best Lead Actor in a Play for his tour de force performance in Tanghalang Pilipino’s Balete, while Shamaine got the jury’s nod for her solid and emotional performance in Floy Quintos’s Grace, giving her the Best Featured Actress in a Play plum. We are also glad that Aliw Awards have upped the ante by recognizing most of the really deserving ones this year.
Former couple Jun Lana and Perci Intalan are head over heels in excitement now that thespian Hilda Koronel is back in town to shoot her comeback film with them, titled Sisa Koronel, who lost her husband last year, was last seen on the big screen 12 years ago, in a movie titled The Mistress, where she acted with Bea Alonzo, John
THIS Christmas season, GMA Network lights up the screens and hearts with Kapuso Christmas Stories: A Season of Gratitude —a compilation of touching short films that celebrate the true meaning of the holidays.
More than just festive entertainment, Kapuso Christmas Stories inspires viewers to reflect on the blessings in their lives and embrace the spirit of gratitude. Each story, brought to life by talented Sparkle artists, will resonate with the audiences as they navigate the joys and challenges of the holiday season.
Lloyd Cruz and the late Ronaldo Valdez. We are so happy that despite their separation, Intalan and Lana continue to be professional business partners. Lana has already found his new love while Intalan told us he is not in a hurry to find love.
The movies that will top the ongoing festival box office race will send their producers laughing their way to the banks. And the champions for this weekend’s scheduled Gabi ng Parangal will surely treasure their victories since this year featured quite a number of wonderfully-crafted movies.
Fighting for the top festival prize are Zig Dulay’s Green Bones and Pepe Diokno’s Isang Himala. Last year, Diokno (for Gomburza) edged out Dulay (for Firefly) for the festival director plum and it’s either he does a back-to-back win or Dulay avenges his loss should he be declared the winner this year.
The buzz is so loud that Dennis Trillo (Green Bones) and Sid Lucero (Topakk) will take home the lead and supporting actor trophies unless politics rear its ugly head again just like in many past film festivals. The lead actress plum will be a close fight between superstars Vilma Santos (Uninvited) and Judy Ann Santos (Espantaho), but we will not be surprised if the jury decides on giving it to Aicelle Santos who sang,
by a true event, highlights the profound impact of kindness and the power of human connection. Viewers can watch “Reliever Doctor” for free at tinyurl.com/3asarm8h
“The Secret to a Yummy Noche Buena,” starring Jenzel Angeles and Brent Valdez, follows a newlywed couple on a culinary adventure as the husband attempts to cook his wife’s favorite dishes for their first Christmas together. “The Secret to a Yummy Noche Buena,” is available for viewing at tinyurl.com/yz7yp3z6
acted and gave her own amazing take on the iconic film character Elsa in Isang Himala
As many of us are celebrating this season with love, joy and merrymaking, let us also not forget that not everyone is happy this Christmas. Some have pressing needs, and are lacking and wanting. There are those who will be spending the holidays without their loved ones, too.
We remember with fondness our dear friend, theater director and producer Bobby Garcia who quietly passed away recently and we condole with his family and closest friends who are in deep grief this season of love.
We are also praying for a dear actor-friend of ours who is battling a rare form of illness in one of the metro’s hospitals for the past few weeks now. A wellloved, very kind and celebrated artist, we fervently hope that he will survive this medical challenge that caught him, and everyone dear to him, by surprise. Whatever emotions we may have or aspire for this Christmas, let us remain kind and sensitive to others, and may we continue to be grateful for festive occasions, happy reunions, and the love, comfort and joy we will give and receive.
We wish our reader’s the season’s best. Cheers! ■
Viewers will be enchanted by a grandfather and his family in “Lolo Rey’s Holi-Slay,” as they laugh and enjoy happy moments while the grandpa tries to stay up to date with the newest dancing trends initiated by the grandson, played by Jeff Moses. This serves as a reminder that maintaining good health and strength is essential to preserving the holiday magic. Watch “Lolo Rey’s Holi-Slay” at com/2mkkbbme
Rey’s up to date with the newest dancing by tinyurl. with
Network Facebook (tinyurl.com/3ptzz4sj ) or YouTube (tinyurl.com/zksy8dcb). More information is available at www. gmanetwork.com. NO LOVE LOST
A POPULAR creative was approached by a network for him to possibly work on the launch of some of their talents. However, the creative refused, saying the talents didn’t meet his standards of sophistication. This is what a lot of people know about the creative. He chooses who he works with, even if he is paid handsomely for his efforts. He is also quite the diva, contrary to the belief that he is nice and sweet. He is only nice and sweet to superstars and rich people. All the others are equally treated with disdain.
3 BABY MAMAS
THE actor has had two wives, both of whom bore his children. He cheated on his second wife with another celebrity. The relationship of the actor and the third girl lasted for a while until they broke up. The rumor is that the actor cheated on the girl with a starlet. Another rumor states that the third girl and the actor have a baby together. If this is true, the girl is the actor’s third baby mama. Another issue against the actor is that he doesn’t support his kids and pretty much ghosts them once his relationship with the mom is over.
CONFIRMED
SO, yes, the sexy actress and the controversial figure are a confirmed couple. However, the house being built by the controversial figure in a posh village is not for the actress. At first, there were talks that it was for another girlfriend (the controversial figure usually has a girlfriend or two). These days, the sexy actress is his main girl. She actually asked the controversial figure if he could buy her a house in the same village but he said renting would do for now.
In “Reliever Doctor,” featuring Sparkle artist Matt Lozano as the dedicated doctor, viewers will surely be moved by the inspiring story of a public school teacher who receives unexpected care from a former student. This heartwarming tale, inspired
In “Danny’s Secret,” a husband tries to win over his mother-in-law with his twist on her favorite sisig recipe, but he finds that being genuine is the key to her affection. This culinary tale features Sparkle artist Gabrielle Hahn. The public can watch “Danny’s Secret” for free at tinyurl.com/ mrt6ndwm
KEIRA KNIGHTLEY starred in one of the most popular Christmas films of the 21st century, the 2003 romantic comedy Love Actually Her new Netflix series Black Doves is also set during the holidays, but in this, she plays a spy alongside Ben Whishaw’s assassin. Knightley says the show, now streaming on Netflix, falls under the Die Hard category of Christmas fare.
“It’s like, ‘I’ve spent too much time with my family, I hate them all, I need to watch something blow up,’” Knightley said during a recent interview alongside Whishaw. “If you’re having a nice time, you can watch Love Actually. And if you’re feeling quite cross, you can watch Black Doves. Christmas entertainment is provided. You’re welcome!”
Knightley’s character Helen is a spy for a secret agency called Black Doves, which has no alliances but is
In partnership with BingoPlus, Knorr, Lady’s Choice, and Ensure, Kapuso Christmas Stories: A Season of Gratitude celebrates the spirit of giving, compassion, and heartfelt appreciation. Kapuso Christmas Stories: A Season of Gratitude can be seen for free on GMA
contracted by the highest bidder. When Helen’s lover is murdered, an old friend, Sam (played by Whishaw), who calls himself a “trigger man,” is brought in to protect her. He also vows to help Helen get revenge.
“It’s appealing to do something you’ve never done before,” said Whishaw. “I felt like the character had this sort of core truth, even though they all are in a quite heightened world where it is possible to be sort of blasted out of a five-story building and not get a scratch.”
Knightley also found something relatable about her character—everyone has different sides of themselves that they show to different people.
“I have two kids. My identity as a mother is very big, but I also hold quite contradictory identities within myself, which are also true but don’t necessarily exist at the same time as I am being a
mother,” she said. She also loved that Sam and Helen’s friendship is “between these two very strange characters,” said Knightley. “They can’t be themselves with anybody else in the world, but they can be their whole selves with each other.”
The roles on the show are atypical for a spy series. Sam and Helen report to a woman as their stoic spy director, played by Sarah Lancashire. Women were also cast to play the heads of crime syndicates. Sam is a lethal killer who happens to be gay.
“It’s always more interesting doing things which are less expected,” said the show’s creator Joe Barton of his casting choices.
The job gave Whishaw the opportunity to learn stunts and appear in action sequences which he found “frightening” in the beginning. AP
CLOCKWISE: Carlos Yulo and Chloe San Jose, Dennis Trillo and Sid Lucero, Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino, Janine Gutierrez and Jericho Rosales, and Nonie and Shamaine Buencamino.
TSMX Convention Center Bacolod, Park Inn by Radisson celebrate a decade of milestones
SMX Bacolod and Park Inn by Radisson
Bacolod joined forces to commemorate a decade of excellence with “Salamat Guid: A Festival of Milestones in the City of Smiles,” held on November 22, 2024. This collaborative celebration not only marked SMX Bacolod’s 10th anniversary but also officially introduced Park Inn as its premier catering partner, underscoring their shared vision to elevate Bacolod’s status as a destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), as well as life’s most cherished celebrations.
Over 350 guests, including government officials, loyal clients, and regional media, were welcomed with a captivating performance by the Domingo Lacson National High School Rondalla. Guests enjoyed cocktails, a Filipino-themed grazing table, and a coffee station, all thoughtfully curated by Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod.
The evening’s highlight was the grand unveiling of SMX Bacolod’s expansive dining hall, featuring four themed setups: Children’s Party, Debut, Wedding, and MICE events. Each vignette came alive with vibrant dance performances and matching
themed décor, demonstrating the venue’s versatility for a wide range of occasions.
bar offering unlimited cocktails added to the evening’s vibrant atmosphere.
Walid Wafik,
Key executives shared inspiring messages during the event.
Senior Vice President for Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp, praised SMX Bacolod’s pivotal role in the events industry.
Sherwin Lucas, Area General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod and Iloilo, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration’s potential to elevate client experiences.
Michael Albaña, Vice President-General Manager of SMX Convention Center, affirmed, “SMX Bacolod is integral to Bacolod’s growth as an emerging MICE and celebrations hub. Our partnership with Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional service and innovative events for the region.”
Guests were treated to a diverse dining experience with themed food stations that echoed the event setups. From kidfriendly bites to sophisticated gourmet selections, the dishes showcased the culinary expertise of Park Inn’s team.
Carving stations, food carts, and a mobile
SMX Bacolod, the largest indoor event venue in the city, boasts 4,629 square meters of flexible space that accommodates everything from intimate meetings to grand productions. Located within SM City Bacolod and seamlessly connected to Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod, it ensures convenience and accessibility for all guests.
The venue has recently hosted notable events such as Miss Universe Philippines – Negros and Bacolod and a concert by the legendary Air Supply, further solidifying its position as a key player in Bacolod’s burgeoning MICE and entertainment industries.
With its dynamic economy, cultural vibrancy, and renowned hospitality, Bacolod is poised for continued growth as a rising MICE and celebrations destination. The collaboration between SMX Bacolod and Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod is set to play a crucial role in driving this progress, creating transformative events and elevating the city’s appeal on the national stage.
The Travel Club+ Second Branch is Now Open in Power Plant Mall
FOR three decades, The Travel Club has been a go-to store for all things travel. When they opened the flagship The Travel Club+ ShangriLa Plaza early this year, it thrilled travelers with its upgraded interior, an array of exclusive brands, travel curations and more. But just when you thought it was the highlight of the year, they’ve done it again with another equally elevated branch—this time, in Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati.
To celebrate this yet another milestone, The Travel Club+ held an elevated launch where travel enthusiasts, top media editors, and distinguished guests gathered. Guests were treated to an exclusive tour of The Travel Club+ Power Plant Mall and through the experiential activities of the event, a taste of the elevated experiences awaiting travelers when they shop in-store.
To commemorate this special day, the talented artist Della De Leos also painted The Travel Club’s 30th Anniversary Limited Edition luggage with art encapsulating the limitless possibilities the new concept has to offer. A ceremonial toast was also led by Sheena Valencia, Brand Manager and special guests, marking the occasion with so much excitement.
Since The Travel Club+ has an in-store viennoiserie and cafe powered by Everyday Coffee Roasters, guests were able to sample their menu from pastries, cakes and coffee. Guests also enjoyed creating their own mocktails, crafting their own flower bouquets from Canvas of Praise, customizing pet tags from Pupperwear and experiencing the Custom Corner of the store by personalizing their The Travel Club+ totes with heatpress stickers, their Delsey luggage tags with the monogramming
Food Packages for Every Celebration WHETHER it’s an intimate dinner or a year end office party, Cravings offers Medium (serves three to four) and Large (serves six to eight) food packages to suit your needs. These packages feature a variety of festive mains— Cravings Classics—including the tender Roast Beef with Mushroom Sauce, American Baked Spareribs, and Baked Salmon with Mustard Cream and Garlic Pasta. Other favorites include Chicken Cordon Bleu, Parmesan-Crusted Fish Fillet, and Prawns Thermidor. For a more traditional touch, the Roast Stuffed
Celebrate Christmas in Full Bloom at Holiday Inn & Suites Makati
THIS festive season, Holiday Inn & Suites Makati invites you to embrace the magic of Christmas, filled with warmth, joy, and a festive array of experiences.
From sumptuous feasts to relaxing stays and unforgettable celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Embark on a culinary adventure with our specially crafted Christmas Platters, ideal for intimate gatherings with family and friends. For those with a sweet tooth, indulge in our delightful selection of holiday treats, including decadent cakes, breads, and seasonal confections.
Celebrate with loved ones at Flavors Restaurant, where you can savor a Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet for P3,200 nett per person, or enjoy a Christmas Day Lunch or Dinner Buffet at the same price. Welcome the New Year in style with our Countdown Dinner Buffet for P3,800 nett per person, complete with live entertainment, party favors, a sparkling mocktail, and exciting raffle prizes. Continue the celebration with a New Year’s Day Lunch Buffet for P2,500 nett per person, or a New Year’s Dinner Buffet for P3,200 nett per person.
Turn the holiday hustle into a relaxing escape with our Holiday Room Package. Starting at just P7,500 nett per night, you’ll enjoy a luxurious stay and easy access to Makati’s premier shopping destinations. As an added treat, every booking gives you the chance to win an overnight stay at another IHG property.
Make your celebrations truly special with our all-inclusive event packages. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or corporate gathering, we’ll ensure your event is filled with festive cheer and holiday magic.
machine and a lot more!
Just like in their first flagship, this Power Plant branch offers an unmatched shopping experience for those who would like to add more to their travel moments. Customers can shop exclusive and premium brands here such as France’s Oumos, Italy’s Piquadro, South Korea’s Rawrow, USA’s Briggs & Riley and Japan’s Ace and Proteca. Quality local travel brands are also now available in The Travel Club+. Against the beautiful backdrop of the store’s elevated design, a Smart Concierge will greet guests with ready assistance for the products they need. When they enter the store, there’s also an in-store viennoiserie and a community lounge where they can relax while shopping or even use it as a venue to plan future trips with friends. The crowd-favorite Custom Corner, where travelers can personalize their gear and add a unique flair to their travel essentials, is also a staple in the new branch.
The Travel Club+ is designed thoughtfully for adventurers of all kinds. Special curations for moms traveling with babies or toddlers, people traveling with pets, and artsy travelers, are on display in-store.
The Travel Club+ at Power Plant Mall is located at R2 Level, ready to bring your travel experience to new heights. With its perfect fusion of style, functionality, and personalized service, The Travel Club+ is yet again ready to elevate your every journey. Watch out also for The Travel Club+ TriNoma’s opening.
Classic Beef Lasagna is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a giveaway. Available in Small, Medium, and Large pans, this dish is a must-have for any gathering and promises to satisfy everyone at the table.
Delights from the Bakeshop KNOWN for their decadent cakes, Cravings has a lineup of sweet treats that will add a touch of magic to the holidays. Choose from a variety of whole cakes, including the luscious Chocolate Caramel, the Devil’s Food Cake, Cherry Walnut Cheesecake, and the
ala Madrileña, Prawns Thermidor, the flavorful Paella-Stuffed Chicken, and the Chocolate Caramel Cake in a Tin Can. Every dish is created in Cravings’ kitchen with love and flavor that makes Christmas dinner unforgettable.
Looking for the perfect gift? Explore our selection of Christmas goodies and treats—your one-stop solution for effortless holiday shopping. Visit our online store or browse through our Christmas e-brochure for inspired gift ideas. At Holiday Inn & Suites Makati, we believe this season is all about creating cherished memories. Let’s come together in celebration and look forward to a brighter, joy-filled year ahead!
Reserve your holiday magic today! NOT yet an IHG One Rewards member? Sign up now at https://bit.ly/IHGOneRewards2024 or visit the reception at Flavors Restaurant to join for free. For more details on our promotions and offerings, visit https://ihg.com/holidayinn/makati. To place an order or inquire, call +63 2 75068132 or Viber +63 9175968897. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram at HolidayInnMakati.
CHRISTMAS platters
Celebrate Christmas with Mang Inasal’s ready-to-serve party platters
THE holidays are here, and so is the season of festive gatherings and delicious feasts! This year, skip the kitchen chaos and bring the magic of Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya to your table with Mang Inasal’s readyto-serve Fiesta bundles. From school Christmas parties and office year-end events to Noche Buena and family reunions, Mang Inasal has all the flavors you need to make every holiday gathering unforgettable. Why spend hours cooking when you can savor the holidays with ready-to-serve Fiesta bundles? Enjoy iconic Filipino favorites like Chicken Inasal, Pork BBQ, and Grilled Liempo, paired perfectly with Java Rice, Palabok,
MANG Inasal’s Ready to Serve Platters. and Lumpiang Togue. Whether it’s the Solo Fiesta or Buddy Fiesta for smaller groups or the Family Fiesta for larger celebrations, there’s something for every occasion. Make your holiday spread unforgettable with Mang Inasal’s party platter delivery. From intimate dinners to big reunions, these platters are designed to bring people together without the hassle of meal prep. Add a sweet touch with Extra Creamy Halo-Halo or Crema de Leche Halo-Halo for a celebration that’s truly memorable. Make this Christmas all about what truly matters — cherished moments with the ones you love. With Mang Inasal’s Fiesta bundles, you can skip the stress of cooking and savor the joy of the season. Visit your nearest branch or order online at https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for ready-toserve platters delivered conveniently to your doorstep. Because the best holiday ingredient is time spent together — and Mang Inasal has the rest covered! Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal.ph for the latest news, https:// manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!
NEW HOTEL101. Hotel101-Libis, the upcoming largest hotel in Quezon City with 702-rooms and 24-floors, is fast taking shape. Hotel101-Libis is located right beside the new Robinsons Opus Mall in Bridgetowne Libis, Quezon City.
Editor: Tet Andolong
Ayala Land Inc. puts premium in quality learning
By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio
An educational institution plays an important part in a community. It provides fundamental education necessary for individuals to become productive members of society, social interaction, build friendship, social and cultural development, cultural enrichment, and safe spaces among others.
ALI’s template
Pro P erty colossus Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) made sure that schools would be a part of any development of their master-planned communities.
For instance, there is Colegio de San Agustin in Dasmariñas Village and Assumption College in San Lorenzo Village. In Nuvali, you could find Xavier School Nuvali, Miriam College, e v erest Academy, Acacia Waldorf School and MindChamps International School. In Westgrove, Manila-based schools Saint Scholastica’s College and De La Salle University Laguna Campus are present to provide quality education in that area.
Anchor school in Parklinks I N ts joint venture with the tan f amilycontrolled e t on Properties, ALI tapped the Multiple Intelligence International School (MISS) as “the anchor” school of the 36-hectare master-planned community.
“Having a school is a trademark of all Ayala Land e s tates. We always reserve space for a learning institution as we recognize the value of making education easily accessible to the young members of our community,” said Mel Ignacio, Senior e s tate Development Head of ALI. It is an advantage for residents to have access to quality education because this reduces the stress of
commuting, especially of the burgeoning traffic situation. Moreover, schools are equipped with modern structures and green spaces that offer learners the opportunity to interact with their peers in a conducive environment enjoying nature within master-planned communities.
“As a school, we have always embraced the o d African Proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Parklinks will be the ideal environment to raise the next generation of leaders to be futureready. We are proud to share in the vision of ALI e t on Parklinks e s tate to put prime importance on the total wellness of individuals by providing 50 percent open space in the development,” MIIS Founding Directress Joy Abaquin shared. ALI is committed to developing sustainable projects. It also aims to be a catalyst contributing to the growth of the provinces where their developments are located.
Teaching the other skills Ab A q U IN s aid MIIS has a strong formation program that equips students with Socio- e motional Learning (S e L ) skills. t h is enables them to learn self-awareness, relationship skills, and responsibility which are foundational skills for success. In addition, student well-being is a priority through helping students learn
value with eco-conscious living. As the only e D G e - certified condominium in b r idgetowne, it features eco-friendly fixtures and systems that reduce water usage by up to 34 percent and energy consumption by up to 45 percent. t
about growth mindset and grit, according to Abaquin.
t h e school in Parklinks will be ready for School ye ar 2025-202 “We are excited to open our doors in the new campus for S y 2 025-26. Construction is well underway and we are inviting the business community to get involved in our advocacy of raising the next generation of Leaders for Sustainable Development. t h is is much needed by the Philippines to be globally competitive and relevant,” said r am on Abaquin, MIIS Chairman of the b o ard.
t h e school’s next big event is the MI Green Family Festival, happening in early 2025. t h is much-anticipated annual schoolwide event provides families with a chance to bond, create lasting memories, and support the school’s sustainability initiatives. Hands-on entrepreneurship MIIS recently held the MI Kids Can! For Kids,
b y K ids b a zaar at the UP to wn Center mall in q ue zon City.
t h e bazaar offered hands-on entrepreneurship experience, bringing their classroom lessons to practice. Students learned how to create products which eventually evolved to learning how to create businesses in the High School. “ t h e bazaar served as a platform to raise the next generation of leaders who will want to care to use their smarts to make a difference and make the world a better place for all,” said Dr Abaquin, the author who wrote the best -selling book for Go Negosyo entitled, “8 Simple Secrets to r ai sing e ntrepreneurs.” MIIS was awarded with the Go Negosyo yo uth e nabler Award for b a sic e d ucation.
t h e MI Kids Can! b
sidences offers enhanced living in a master-planned community. t his dynamic hub features sustainable office buildings, green spaces, and retail and commercial establishments.
Aside from the iconic 60-meter t h e Victor statue and a premium shopping center o P US Mall, b r idgetowne will also be the home to Fili, the first authentic 5-star Filipino hotel. Strategically situated between Pasig and q u ezon City, the estate provides easy access to major business districts and key roads like C5 and o r tigas Avenue.
A smart, sustainable investment Le Pont
Philippine golf in 2024: About Rianne & Bianca
By Aldrin Quinto
RAssociation (USGA) leaderboard with two huge titles in three weeks.
M alixi faced a familiar foe in the US Women’s Amateur, beating California’s Asterisk Talley, 3 and 2, to claim the title at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
A fter a split on the 30th with pars, Malixi birdied the next three holes and closed out the match with a par halve on the par-five 34th. Malixi won the US Girls’ Junior in record fashion just weeks before, defeating the 15-year-old Talley,
the final and second to win the title. Princess Superal was the first Filipina to win the US Girls Junior, topping the event in 2014, three years after Dottie Ardina took second place. The previous mark for championship match winning margin was 7-and5 when the titles were disputed over 18 holes—Nancy Lopez winning in 1974 and Michelle McGann in 1987.
“I know being USGA champion means a lot,” Malixi said. “Being able to do that is a huge honor for me and I’m very grateful.”
The sweet victory erased bitter memories of a narrow loss just a year ago to Kiara Romero, who won 1 up at the US Air Force Academy’s Eisenhower Golf Course in Colorado Springs.
“It was such a heartbreak last year because I was so close,” Malixi said. “After that US trip I just practiced a lot. I spent a lot of hours training in Manila.” Malixi is only the second player to win both the US junior golf and the US Women’s Amateur in the same year. South Korea’s Eun Jeong Seong completed the double in 2016.
Malixi, who had beaten professionals on the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour, now gears up for the National Collegiate Athletic Associa-
By Eddie Pells The Associated Press
tion with Duke, which was eighth in the women’s division in 2024.
Birdies, controversies in Paris
BIANCA PAGDANGANAN and Dottie
Ardina also raised the Philippine flag prominently on the Olympic leaderboard in Paris after finding ways to keep the flag patches on their blouses.
The two Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) players did fine in a Philippine stint at Le Golf National marred by uniform and equipment issues.
Pagdanganan came up with an electrifying finish, falling just short of a playoff for a medal to shift focus to the fine play after the controversy of the past few days as the two Filipinas made do with uniforms and playing gear they sourced on their own.
Golf officials later said logistical issues caused the uniform and equipment troubles.
The 26-year-old Pagdanganan, who made her Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020 where she placed 43rd at Kasumigaseki Country Club, rose from outside the top 10 on moving day to a chance at the medals in the finale on L’Albatros course.
The sizzling 68 wasn’t enough, though, as Pagdanganan—with earlier rounds of 72-69-73—wound up with a six-under 282 total, a shot off bronze medalist Xiyu Lin of China, who closed with a 69 for 281.
A lso finishing at 282 were Australia’s Hannah Green (69), Amy Yang (69) of South Korea and Japan’s Miyu Yamashita (73).
Lydia Ko of New Zealand bagged the gold with a 10-under 278 as Esther Henseleit of Germany claimed silver at -8.
Ardina had an impressive final 36 holes, registering rounds of 69-68, although the tough start of 76-72 proved too much to overcome and she ended up at 3-under 285 for joint 13th place with double major champion Brooke Henderson of Canada, major winner Ashleigh BUhai of South Africa, Spain’s Azahara Munoz and Switzerland’s Albane Valenzuela.
Pagdanganan’s finish was the best by a Philippine entry in the Olympics.
final step of a journey that has felt inevitable since 2021.
T hat’s when the Supreme Court laid the foundation for paying college players in exchange for promotions—on social media, TV, video games, you name it—featuring their name, image or likeness (NIL).
T he changes have come in spasms so far, not always well thought out, not always fair and not regulated by any single entity like the NCAA or federal government, but rather by a collection of state laws, along with rules at individual schools and the leagues in which they play. But on April 7, the day final approval
New Zealand sports salad
TAUPO, a three-hour drive from Auckland CBD where I’m basically based here in New Zealand, hosted the recent Ironman 70.3 World Championships. Taupo hosted the cream of the crop of professional and age group triathletes from all over the world—New Zealand hosted the world championship for the first time as Taupo provided the country’s breath-taking scenery.
T he race featured one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes and a bike route which took competitors through renowned rural landscape. The run course gave the participants a view of the lakefront.
B elgium’s Jelle Greens was the overall winner in the men’s division. He came into this year’s edition of the Ironman 70.3 with a lot of momentum.
T he decorated triathlete is a three-time Olympian at Rio, Tokyo and Paris and is the only
Jelle is looking to make a successful transition to Ironman
O
ORLANDO, Florida—Tiger Woods never had so much fun losing in a playoff. For the 67-year-old Bernhard Langer, it never gets old winning the PNC Championship with his son.
T hey all delivered a riveting show Sunday, from 15-year-old Charlie Woods making his first hole-in-one to Langer hitting the shot that ultimately mattered, an 18-foot eagle putt on the first playoff hole for his record sixth title in the tournament where everyone leaves happy.
Juvic Pagunsan placed 55th in Tokyo, while Miguel Tabuena wound up 53rd in the Rio de Janeiro Games in 2016. Yuka Saso placed ninth in Tokyo when she played for the Philippines before switching allegiance to Japan.
Harmie: Constant contender ON the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT), it was Harmie Constantino who made the biggest waves.
With four victories in a 10-leg season, Constantino topped the LPGT Order of Merit for the second time in her career. Constantino won three straight tournaments—Palos Verdes, Caliraya Springs and Villamor—and had a midseason slump before ending the run of futility with a sizzling victory in the storm-hit Negros Occidental Classic. That made it 10 professional titles for the 22-year-old Constantino, who was also the best-placed Filipina in the International Container Terminal Services Inc. Luisita Ladies International at second behind Patcharajutar Kongkraphan of Thailand.
Sarah Ababa won in Davao and Iloilo, while Daniella Uy claimed the Bacolod crown, gaining a share of the spotlight with Korea’s Jiwon Lee, who topped the Lakewood Championship in Cabanatuan as an amateur and claimed her first win as a professional at Splendido Taal in Laurel, Batangas.
A familiar guy, meanwhile, dominated the men’s tour as Tony Lascuña returned to the top of the Order of Merit.
L ascuna has topped the money list for the fifth time, adding to victories in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2016.
is expected for the landmark, $2.8 billion lawsuit settlement that lays the foundation for players to receive money directly from their schools, what was once considered anathema to the entire concept of college sports will become the norm.
David Schnase, the NCAA’s vice president for academic and membership affairs, acknowledges that maintaining the unique essence of college sports is a challenge in the shifting landscape.
“ You can use the word ‘pro,’ you can use the word ‘amateur,’ you can attach whatever moniker you want to it, but those are just labels,” Schnase said. “It’s much less about labels and more about experiences and
triathlon team. If there’s any doubt about her mental and physical toughness, she qualified for two sports at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics in triathlon and cycling.
“I’ve always been fascinated about the sport of triathlon. Like other sports, it is a sport of many sacrifices and one of the toughest if not the toughest sport,” she said.
Like what the title of this piece says, which is sports salad, we now move on to the game between the Philippines and the Tall Blacks of New Zealand on February 23 next year. Tickets are selling like hot cakes so expect the 13,000-seat Spark Arena to be rocking as the Tall Blacks look to even things up after a 93-89 disappointment at the Mall of Asia Arena last month. In Australian A-League action, Auckland FC plays the Melbourne Victory on New Year’s Day. The Black Knights are looking to stay undefeated after struggling but managing to salvage a draw against Melbourne City in their previous outing. Finally, the 2025 edition of the ASB Tennis Classic kicks off on December 30 here in Auckland at the Manuka Doctor Arena. According to their website: “The winners of seven Grand Slams, a world no.1 for five straight months, a Billie Jean
“ That was the thrill of a lifetime to be able to have that moment with Charlie, make his first hole-in-one, [daughter] Sam on the bag, just our family and friends. That’s what this event is about. It’s about bonding and family,” Woods said.
“I k now we didn’t win, but it was the fact that we competed,” he said. “No one really made a mistake out there. We had to earn it, and that’s what you want to have. Hats off to Langers. They played amazing.”
L anger and 24-year-old son Jason won for the second straight year, and Langer became the only player to win the PNC Championship back-to-back with two sons as partners. He won twice (2005 and 2006) with Stefan, who caddied Sunday for his little brother.
W hat made this one special was the opponent.
Woods, playing for the first time since a sixth surgery on his lower back in September, was moving well and delivering key shots in a duel at such a high level that both teams made only four pars and shot 15-under 57 in the scramble format.
Woods hit driver off the deck on the par-5 14th. Langer followed by hitting driver out of a bunker on that hole and nearly finding the green, landing in a greenside bunker.
“One of the best shots I’ve ever seen,” Woods said of Langer, who turned pro three years before Woods was born.
J ason Langer, who played college golf at Penn, is an investment banker in New York who doesn’t play all that much. But he handled the stage—
playing with Tiger Woods isn’t easy for seasoned pros—like he had been there before.
“I’m just so proud of him,” Langer said. “First time playing with Tiger in the spotlight. It’s not easy. A lot of people are moving. They are really not always interested in what we do. But very proud of him the way he handled himself. He hit a couple of fantastic iron shots into 18 to give us the opportunity to make birdie and then eagle.”
T he two-time Masters champion was equally impressed with Woods and son for embracing the spirit of this tournament amid competition so tight that neither team led by more than one shot the entire round. They broke the tournament scoring record at 28-under 116.
Woods broke into a big smile when Langer made the winner. The real thrill was watching Charlie hit 7-iron from 175 yards on the par-3 fourth that covered the flag, took a few bounces and rolled in. Woods hugged his son as hard as he did when winning the Masters in 2019, giving him a playful shove and then reminding the high school sophomore that he had to buy a round of drinks for everyone.
“I’m broke,” Charlie replied. Even in defeat, Charlie said the hole-in-one, the great closing round, the playoff, everything, was the most fun he’s had on the golf course.
“It’s not even close,” he said. In th e playoff, Langer had the advantage on the par 5 because of his age. Anyone over 65 played the third set of tees, which were 82 yards ahead of where Woods had to play and 52 yards ahead of where the two sons were hitting. Charlie just reached the front of the green with his second shot. His 25-foot eagle putt hit the edge of the hole but had too much pace. Woods missed low. Jason Langer hit his approach to 18 feet, narrowly missed the putt and left it to his ageless father to make the winner. For Woods, it was his first time in a playoff since Zach Johnson beat him at Sherwood in the 2013 World Challenge. AP
circumstances. Circumstances are different today than they were last year and they are likely going to be different in the foreseeable future.”
Do athletes get rich off these new deals?
FEW would argue that college athletes should get something back for the billions they help produce in TV and ticket revenue, merchandise sales and the like.
But is everyone going to cash in? Are college players really getting rich?
Recent headlines suggest top
quarterback recruit Bryce Underwood was lured to Michigan thanks to funding from billionaire Oracle founder Larry Ellison, and that a top basketball recruit, AJ Dybantsa, is heading to BYU—not a hoops powerhouse—for the reported price of $7 million.
RIANNE MALIXI’S star shines brightest in 2024 with Bianca Pagdanganan showing resiliency with a big fighting heart.
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
Health& Fitness
3 in 4 Filipinos say a healthier diet important to support mental, physical health–survey
Herbalife , a premier health and wellness company and community, recently released findings from its asia Pacific “New Year, New Me” survey, which revealed that 76 percent of filipino consumers say a healthier diet is important to support their mental and physical health.
Four in five Filipinos (82 percent) plan to have healthier habits in the coming year and will measure the success of a healthier diet as achieving better overall wellbeing, feeling more energetic and sleeping better.
As part of this, 66 percent plan to make a New Year’s resolution for 2025. When asked about their resolutions, the top three were to focus on self-care (60 percent), exercise more (57 percent) and eat healthier (57 percent).
Talker Research surveyed 5,500 Asia Pacific consumers in 11 countries - Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, s i ngapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. The survey was commissioned by Herbalife and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Oct. 25 to 29, 2024and it looked at how people viewed the importance of healthy habits and what steps they were taking to live healthier in the longer term.
“New Year’s resolutions offer a fresh start to prioritize health, and Filipinos are known
for their determination and family-centered values, which can be great motivators. Begin with small, achievable steps and incorporate them into your daily routine, whether it’s focusing on practicing self-care or choosing healthier meals. With consistency and commitment, those resolutions can grow into lasting habits that support a healthier and more fulfilling life,” said Allan Domingo, General Manager, Herbalife Philippines.
Less healthy
M OR E t han half (60 percent) of the people surveyed said they are less healthy than usual as the end of the year approaches—and 53 percent said they use the end of the year as an excuse to postpone eating healthily.
This varied by generation, too: 61 percent of Gen Z respondents admitted to using this as an excuse, compared to 47 percent of Gen Xers surveyed.
Regardless of age, the results also found that 70 percent have broken a diet at the end of the year, with 35 percent admitting
it was due to the temptation of holiday food.
Many respondents are pausing their healthy habits so they can best enjoy the holiday season. s i xty-one percent of respondents said the end of the year is more enjoyable if they are not worried about healthy habits and their weight.
Again, younger respondents were more likely to agree—68 percent of Gen Zers, compared to 57 percent of Gen Xers.
Give into temptation
T HEY w ere also more likely to give into temptation this year: overall, 58 percent of respondents were more likely to give in this year than other years, and this increased for younger generations—61 percent of Gen Z, versus only 44 percent of Gen X.
When asked why they’re more likely to give into temptation this year, respondents said they are more grateful to be with family and friends this year, and therefore expect their self-control to be lower (53 percent) and as they have gotten older, they are more willing to give in and just enjoy the moment (36 percent).
“Embracing the holiday season means celebrating with loved ones, and it’s possible to enjoy it while keeping your health in focus. Enjoy those festive treats but consider balancing them with nutritious options and staying active. It’s all about making mindful choices that let you savor the joy of the season while still feeling great. With a little planning, you can celebrate and maintain your healthy habits,” added Allan.
Seniors told to get flu shots for safe, healthy holiday celebration
By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco
s the holidays bring families togeth -
Aer, timely flu vaccinations are key to ensuring seniors can celebrate safely and free from the fear of severe illness. People 65 years and older are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications compared with young, healthy adults, the Centers for Control and Prevention (CDC) said.
This, the CDC said, increased risk is due in part to changes in immune defenses with increasing age that is why flu vaccination is especially important for people 65 years
and older because they are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications.
In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) provides free influenza and pneumococcal vaccines for indigent seniors as mandated under the Expanded s e nior Citizens Act of 2010.
As holiday season fast approaches, marked by increased face-to-face gatherings and the cold “Amihan” season, United s e nior Citizens Partylist Rep. Milagros Aquino-Magsaysay is urging regional and provincial health offices to pri oritize the swift acceptance and distribution of flu vaccines.
Increased vulnerablity
T HI s c all comes at a critical time, as unvaccinated seniors face heightened vulnerability to severe illness due to cooler temperatures and greater exposure to large crowds.
With the DOH having finalized the procurement, vaccines are set to reach regional offices soon.
While DOH data shows a 17 percent nationwide decrease in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases compared to last year, certain regions, including Cordillera, Bicol, Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, have experienced an uptick in cases.
Magsaysay emphasized the need for proactive measures, urging regional health offices to expedite vaccine distribution to protect vulnerable seniors and prevent further spread.
Regional health offices are instrumental in ensuring our beloved lolos and lolas receive the care and protection they deserve.
“Libre ang flu at pneumonia vaccines sa mga health center. Magtanong lamang sa inyong healthcare workers para sa schedule (Flu and pneumonia vaccines are free at the health center. Just ask the healthcare workers for the vaccination schedule),” the DOH said.
Rely on better, trusted information about sexual, reproductive health this Christmas
By Rory Visco Contributor
The “amihan” season, which features slight to m oderate rainfall and prevailing cold wind, was declared by the state weather agency middle of last month, which means an increase in atmospheric pressure and cooler surface air temperature. This translates into longer and colder nights, a welcome respite after the hot summer months.
The colder nights, however, may ignite more intimacy and passion among people. In an article that appeared at Smithsonianmag.com, the magazine that places a Smithsonian lens on “subject matters researched, studied and exhibited by the Smithsonian Institution like science, history, art, popular culture and innovation,” it cited some research that shows “the seasonality of births correlates with changes in local temperature and day length.”
It also said that those living in rural areas “tend to have a more dramatic seasonal birth pulse” than those in urban settings, “probably because country dwellers may be more subject to environmental conditions, including changes in temperature and day length. e nvironmental factors like these could influence human sexual behavior.”
Meanwhile, in an article posted on yah oo.com several years ago, it said “Good times to make a baby include moments when you’re not stressed, when you (or your partner) are ovulating—and, apparently, when it’s Christmas or New ye ar’s e v e, which ranked No. 1 and No. 2, respectively,” a statement that cited findings from MooseRoots, a leading genealogy research website, that talked about which holidays have the highest rates of conception.
The yah oo.com article also cited comments from h e len Fisher, a biological anthropologist and researcher with the Center for h u man e v olutionary Studies at Rutgers University in New Jersey, USA.
“It makes sense from an evolutionary perspective.”
She adds that “men in North America have their highest testosterone activity in November and December, a factor that ‘makes expression of sexuality more likely.’”
As to why the Christmas season is a favorite time of the year to be more intimate, “There’s no question about it: It’s a very festive time of year, and that drives up the dopamine system, which drives up the testosterone system, which is linked with a time of higher sex drive,” Fisher noted.
Better to be safe than sorry
W h I L e the Christmas season is a time for increased sexual intimacy, observing sexual health and safety is still of paramount importance, that prevention is still better than treatment, whether it’s about protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), avoiding an unintended pregnancy, or simply wanting to feel more informed on all sexual and reproductive health options available. It’s about looking for trusted measures on contraception and the right tools to track fertility to support sexual well-being and making empowered decisions.
The 2022 Philippine National Demographic and h e alth Survey (PND h S ) revealed that 98 percent of the women surveyed, aged 15 to 49 years old, said that they know at least one contraception method, the most popular method of which is pills at 97 percent, condoms at 96 percent, female sterilization at 86 percent, and injectables at 85 percent.
It is good that there is already awareness about methods on sexual health and well-being, but knowing only one may not be enough. Thanks to advancements in the medical field, several options are now available to keep everyone’s sexual health not only robust but also pleasurable. These options should be well understood by many, what are its benefits, and how these align with personal health goals and lifestyle choices for a positive and
holistic experience.
Arsenal of sexual health products
AWA R e N e S S is good but it also vital that people should learn more about the various sexual health products available so that they can be confident and in control of their sexual health decisions.
Condoms are perhaps the most popular among forms of contraception and is widely available. It is 98 percent effective at preventing pregnancy when used properly, and also lowers the risk of STI contraction. Birth control pills, or oral contraceptive pills, is another popular choice to prevent pregnancy. It has hormone-containing medications to safely inhibit ovulation and thicken the mucus lining of the cervix which makes it harder for the sperm to enter the uterus. There are two variants: combination pills (COCs) which contain estrogen and progestin, and progestin-only pills (POPs or mini pills) which, as the name suggests, exclusively contain progestin and are best for breastfeeding women as they don’t affect lactation and infant growth.
Pills must be taken daily in order to be effective. There is an emergency approach, however, called the yu zpe” method that involves taking a higher dose of oral contraceptive pills within 72 hours, followed by a second dose after 12 hours to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. But this is more of a backup plan and not as a recurring practice to avoid potential side effects.
To make intercourse more pleasurable and satisfying, there are the lubricants, slippery fluids to reduce dryness and friction, and comes in water-, oil-, or silicone-based forms. Water-based is more versatile, while oil-based ones should not be used with latex condoms since latex tears when in contact with oil-based substances.
Ovulation Test Kits, meanwhile, help women know when they’re likely to be fertile by detecting the presence of luteinizing hormones (L h ) in urine,
New UP-PGH equipment ensures advanced care for poor patients
Twhich is released when a woman is ovulating. Generally, this method is accurate but can be influenced by medications, medical conditions, and irregular menstrual cycles. For women who are actively trying to either conceive or avoid pregnancy, tracking ovulation cycles is crucial.
Finally, Pregnancy Test Kits, available at most drugstores and clinics, have a 99-percent accuracy, with the most accurate results typically showing within the first two weeks after a missed menstrual period. The kits analyze a sample of the urine to detect a hormone known as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced by the placenta during pregnancy. When it detects that the hCG levels are high, it shows a positive result. In this case, it is advised to see a doctor, midwife, or local health center to confirm the pregnancy and receive guidance on what steps to take next.
The value of trustworthy information A SI D e f rom having a broad array of products on sexual and reproductive health, it is also vital to seek information and expand one’s knowledge about this issue from trusted and reliable sources. And what better to source important information about sexual and reproductive health through the Trust.ph website.
This online platform provides clear, dependable, and accurate resources concerning sexual and reproductive health. Apart from health articles and expert studies, it also offers other useful and helpful features such as an empathetic AI chatbot named ai-Thea, who can answer all Sexual and Reproductive h e alth and Rights (SR h R) questions, interactive quizzes to explore contraception methods or to assess the likelihood of a pregnancy, and a directory of trusted stores and clinics for quick reference and access to contraceptives.
So before you decide what to do when it comes to your sexual health, consult the Trust.ph website.
four-year wait for the first-ever P e T-CT scan facility to be procured by the Philippine government. “But now that it’s here, we have leveled the field for poor patients, who will be using this machine 80 percent of the time versus 20 percent for paying patients,” Legaspi said, adding that the P e T-CT scan procedure can accommodate up to eight patients a day at present and will be scaled up to 15 once operations become more regular. “We need this machine badly because it has become central to the diagnosis of cancer, a major concern of our healthcare system.”
Radioactive material
A T y P ICAL P e T s can uses small amounts of radioactive material injected into the bloodstream to helps detect diseases like cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders at an early stage by showing how tissues and organs are functioning. A CT scan, on the other hand, uses x-rays to show cross-sectional images of the body’s internal structure, helping pinpoint the exact location of abnormalities detected by the P e T s can. A combined P e T-CT scan can provide both functional and structural information in a single session for doctors to get a more comprehensive inside view of what’s happening in the patient’s body.
PG h is coordinating with the Department of h e alth (DO h ) on how to make this service available to non-PG h patients. DO h p ersonnel will also be trained on its use alongside doctors under the UP-PG h residency program, Legaspi said. h e a dded that the facility will be operated in collaboration with specialists and experts from other hospitals.
Legaspi noted the steady expansion of UP-PG h ’s capabilities from basic healthcare to advanced medical interventions that have benefited poor patients in particular. “A market vendor in Paco, Manila who had a heart attack was wheeled into the emergency room, went through angiography, and had a stent implanted to prevent his artery from blocking up again—all in one to two hours, free of charge.” h e ac knowledged that many public hospitals around the Philippines are now able to deliver similar services.
“The first patient to undergo robotic surgery in UP-PG h was a jeepney driver,” he recalled. “Furthermore, cochlear implants worth a million pesos each are now available to indigent children who will be able to hear clearly for the first time in their lives.”
Breast cancer patients
A LSO n the growing list of UP-PG h interventions are those for breast cancer patients who can have a tumor removed followed by a one-time radiation treatment through intraoperative radiotherapy or IORT, foregoing the need for the usual 10 to 20 days of radiation therapy.
Additionally, the neurosurgeons of PG h are implanting deep brain stimulation devices on patients suffering from the rare Lubag disease or X-linked dystonia parkinsonism (XDP) that occurs almost exclusively on males from Panay island, which stops the disease’s debilitating effects; and perform high frequency focused ultrasound ( h FU) treatment for tremors related to parkinsonism as an additional option for Lubag patients. The h I FU for brain intervention is only found in UP-PG h in the country and only the second in Southeast Asia.
The hospital also has a transcranial magnetic stimulation unit, which sends electromagnetic waves to the brain for faster healing of patients with depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and addiction. Recently PG h installed a robotic gait trainer machine in its rehabilitation medicine department to further improve the capability of disabled patients to recover their functions.
Expensive medical procedures
Le G ASPI s aid the new equipment allowed UP-PG h to do medical procedures that were otherwise expensive to obtain from private hospitals or may not even be available in most of them. h e thanked the Philippine government for its continuing attention to UP-PG h . The hospital’s P7.72-billion outlay in 2024 is a large portion of the UP budget, comprising one-third of the total amount allocated
N E w Year’s resolutions offer a fresh start to the new year.
BusinessMirror Tuesday-Thursday, December 24-26, 2024
Keep kids healthy this Christmas season with these eight tips for using food labels
The holiday season means family gatherings, special meals, and often more sugary, processed foods on the table. Besides too much sugar and fats in their diets, many children do not receive the variety of food and nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy. They are eating fewer fruits and vegetables while consuming more sugary, salty, and fatty foods, making balanced nutrition even harder to achieve.
In the Philippines, the number of overweight children—those weighing more than what’s healthy for their height and age—has almost tripled since 2003. Obesity is even more concerning, with a weight that is far above the healthy range, thus increasing the risk of problems like diabetes. Both overweight and obesity levels in the country are already considered “high” by global standards.
h e alth experts and the UN child rights agency UNIC e F a re advocating for the government to introduce front-of-package nutrition labels, simple symbols on food packages to quickly show if a product is high in sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats.
Understanding food labels
Wh I le mandatory front-of-package nutrition labels are being pushed, parents can still make smart choices by checking food labels at the back of every product. With so many baby snacks and convenient, ready-to-eat foods available, this small step can go a long way in keeping children healthy and happy. h e re’s how you can make smarter picks at the grocery store this season
1. Start with the serving size. The serving size tells you how many servings each product contains and how many grams or pieces is considered as one serving. Take note that nutritional information will be based on just one serving. Consider this when serving your kids the product. For example, the label might say “four cookies” but a typical threeyear-old child only needs about 1,350 calories daily. If one serving (four cookies) contains 160 calories, and your child eats eight cookies (160 calories per serving x 2 servings = 320) for the day, that’s already almost one-fourth of the daily energy needs.
2. Check the calories. Th I s n umber shows the energy your child gets from each serving. h e re’s a quick guide to what children typically need per day:
1 to 3 years old: 920 to 1,000 kcal
4 to 6 years old: 1,200 to 1,400 kcal
7 to 9 years old: 1,400 to 1,800 kcal
10 to 12 years old: 1,800 to 2,200 kcal
13 to 18 years old: 2,000–2,600 kcal (boys) and 1,800 to 2,000 kcal (girls)
While having a snack is okay, keep in mind their other meals for the day. For example, serving eight cookies is already equivalent to 320 calories, which may be fine for a teenager but may be too much for a four-year-old.
3. Limit unhealthy fats, added sugar, and salt.
FaT s sugar, and salt are fine in small
amounts but should stay low to prevent unhealthy weight gain. Opt for snacks with less than 5g of saturated fat; 10g of added sugar and 200mg of sodium per serving
4. Don’t just check the amount of fats, also the type.
sO me food labels list “calories from f at,” or how much of the total energy in one serving comes from fats. For instance, if a snack has 160 calories per serving, and 70 come from fats, nearly half might not have come from healthy sources.
When it comes to fats, the type of fat is just as important as the amount. h e althy fats, like those from nuts, fish, and seeds, are important for brain development and energy. They even protect you from unhealthy saturated fats, often found in fried or processed foods. The World h e alth Organization recommends keeping saturated fats under 10% of daily calories and avoiding trans fats entirely to keep your child healthy.
5. Check the ingredients list. WaT C h out for hidden sugars in the ingredients list. Often, these are called “sucrose” or “corn syrup.” Take note, as well, that the ingredients are listed in descending order of weight. This means that the first one or two ingredients mentioned in the list are the ones that make up the largest portion of the product.
6. Look for good nutrients.
Ch I l dre N n eed fiber, vitamins, and minerals (like iron and calcium) to grow strong and healthy. While some
Quality Sleep PH strengthens campaign on
‘More Filipinos have sleep apnea today.”
This is what Dr. Jimmy Chang, a sleep specialist and Vice President of the sleep experts’ professional organization Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine (PSSM), shared in the roundtable discussion with doctors and stakeholders, at the Club Filipino, San Juan City, on December 10, 2024. The roundtable discussion is part of a campaign of Quality Sleep Philippines (QSPH), which raises awareness of obstruct ive sleep apnea (o SA), a chronic disease that involves repeated collapse of the upper airway during sleep.
QSPH is a company specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea. It was put up by Cox Tan-Ngo who previously established the largest CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) therapy group in British Columbia, Canada, marked by the introduction of Dr. Michael Sarte, a distinguished and pioneering sleep specialist, and one of the founders of PSSM.
High prevalence of OSA
W H I l e there is no local research on the current number of o S A cases in the Philippines, Dr. Chang said “the prevalence of o SA is very high—to the point that most facilities cannot handle the demand of sleep testing
ACC o r D ING t o data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the trend of girls aged under 15 giving birth has been on the rise since 2016 with the highest number recorded in 2022 with 3,135 for year 2022, making childhood pregnancy an urgent concern. In the same year, PSA data also revealed that an average of 425 babies were born to young mothers aged 15 to 19 in the country everyday, increasing the probability of rapid repeat pregnancies with a subsequent pregnancy occurring less than two years after the previous one. In response to this concerning trend,
anymore.” He added that “in Metro Manila alone, all sleep centrers have at least three months of waiting time.”
Philippine Heart Association (PHA) Hypertension Council Chair Dr. Frederic Cheng emphasized the clear relationship of sleep disordered breathing and cardiovascular conditions. “Patients with sleep-disordered breathing or o SA are at high risk of developing hypertension and other related cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks.”
Dr. Cheng added that “sleep apnea, in particular, is a condition that is often under diagnosed yet significantly contributes to increased morbidity and mortality, as well as a diminished quality of life.” In light of the health crisis, QSPH partnered with a reputable institution MyHealth Clinic, a multi-specialty, full-service clinic, for its newly launched “Sleep Program,” which is designed to embrace a holistic approach to patient care.
Collaboration
QSPH Managing Director Charles Cheung shared that this collaboration reinforces their commitment to understanding the profound impact of sleep on overall health. “We are raising national awareness of sleep apnea and are aiming to encourage more undiagnosed
the Department of Health (D o H ), in collaboration with the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) and the Forum for Family Planning and Development, Inc. (The Forum), forged strategic directions to strengthen reproductive health during the 2024 National Conference on Family Planning (NCFP). The D o H s ees this collaboration as an avenue to discuss recommendations on strengthening sexual and reproductive education with innovative approaches to prevent unwanted and childhood pregnancies. The discussion in optimizing modern Family Planning (FP) use to avert maternal
patients to understand this chronic disease and seek treatment,” added Cheung.
Given that many Filipinos remain unaware of their condition or lack access to proper screening and treatment, QSPH and MyHealth Clinic, committed to strengthen the promotion of the early detection and effective management of sleep disorders by offering accessible and comprehensive solutions.
At the roundtable event, QSPH launched the sleep testing device called WatchPAT o n e, a home sleep apnea test (HSAT) device that can diagnose o SA and central sleep apnea (CSA). The test consists of three sensors: a wrist sensor for actigraphy recoding, a pulse oximeter worn on the finger for PAT (peripheral arterial tonometry) signal, and a chest sensor for snoring and body position and for data collection on seven bodily metrics. o n ce data is collected, it is sent via Bluetooth to an app on a smart phone, which transmits it to the cloud to allow the doctor to review these metrics for diagnosis. The PAT sensor is the main technology that allows for the device to be simple to use. Compared to the traditional polysomnography (sleep study) conducted at a sleep clinic, this innovative device is highly recommended for its ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and rapid results.
snacks add these nutrients, it’s best to find foods that naturally have them, like fruits and whole grains. For instance, children four to six years old need 300 mg of calcium and 10mg of iron daily. s o , if a product offers at least 10 to 20 percent of these daily requirements, it’s a helpful addition to your kids’ meals.
7. Check the footnote.
The footnote explains the % d a ily Value ( d V ), which is based on an adult’s daily nutrient needs. While children need fewer calories, you can still use the % dV t o estimate the amount of nutrients in a product. For example, the image shows 0% dV f or calcium, meaning the product does not provide it. Preschoolers need about 550 mg of calcium daily, so make sure their other snacks or meals can provide this.
8. Try balancing the % Daily Value.
The % dV s hows how much one serving of the product provides toward our specific daily need of calories or certain nutrients. a i m for high percentages (20 percent or more) in nutrients like fiber, calcium, and iron, but keep sugar, salt, and fat low (five percent or less). If a snack has 25 percent dV o f sugar, it might be too sweet for younger kids, so consider a healthier alternative. Visit www.unicef.ph to know more about the work we’re doing for every child, everywhere. Or follow us on FB/ unicefphilippines, X/@unicefphils, IG/@unicefphils, TikTok/@unicefph, and YouTube/@unicefphilippines.
sleep health
Elevating care
T H e launching of the new product is aligned with QSPH’s mission to innovate and transform the industry by providing effective therapies and elevating care standards for individuals affected by o SA and other sleeprelated disorders. QSPH is the pioneering CPAP therapy provider in the Philippines. For almost a decade, it has been helping thousands of Filipinos regained their footing in terms of sleep and improved their well-being.
“We believe that every Filipino deserves quality patient care. Now, we are broadening that vision by embracing a more holistic and integrative approach to patient health. This approach is anchored in our commitment to treating the whole person—addressing not only individual symptoms but also the full spectrum of factors that influence health and well-being,” said MyHealth Clinic o f ficer-inCharge Dr. Sherry Gallardo.
Are you ready to start your sleep test?
Quality Sleep Philippines (QSPH) is located at 2/F High Pointe Medical Hub, 241 Shaw Boulevard, Brgy Bagong Silang, Mandaluyong City. Feel free to contact Neil Maypa, r N or Mark Jimenez, r N at mobile no.: 0917 133 2135, telephone number (632) 8994 3210 or email: info@qualitysleepph.com. You may also visit website: www.qualitysleepph.com.
The 2024 Global h e ath e x penditure r e port by the World h e alth Organization (W h O) showed that the average per capita government spending on health in all country income groups fell in 2022 from 2021 after a surge in the early pandemic years.
The report titled, “Global spending on health e merging from the pandemic” has been published in alignment with the Universal h e alth Coverage (U h C ) d a y campaign marked annually on d e cember 12. The campaign’s focus for 2024 is on improving financial protection for people everywhere to access health services they need.
Government spending on health is crucial to delivering U hC . Its deprioritization can have dire consequences in a context where 4.5 billion people worldwide lack access to basic health services and two billion people face financial hardship due to health costs.
“While access to health services has been improving globally, using those services is driving more and more people into financial hardship or poverty. Universal he alth Coverage d a y is a reminder that health for all means everyone can access the health services they need, without financial hardship,” said d r Tedros a d hanom Ghebreyesus, W hO d i rector-General.
Who’s paying for healthcare?
Pr O T e C TING p eople from financial hardship due to out-of-pocket health costs is fundamental to achieving health for all. Yet, W h O ’s report shows that out-of-pocket spending remained the main source of health financing in 30 low- and lower middleincome countries. In 20 of these countries, more than half of total health spending in the country was paid for by patients out of their pocket, which contributes to the cycle of poverty and vulnerability.
The challenges posed by the lack of financial protection for health are not limited to lower-income countries.
e v en in high-income countries, outof-pocket payments lead to financial hardship and unmet need, particularly among the poorest households. m o st recent health accounts data show that in over a third of highincome countries, more than 20 percent of total health spending was paid out-of-pocket.
On the occasion of U h C d a y, W h O called on leaders to make U h C a n ational priority and eliminate impoverishment due to health-related expenses by 2030. e f fective strategies to strengthen financial protection include minimizing or removing user charges for those most in need, including people with low incomes or chronic conditions, adopting legislation to protect people from impoverishing health costs and establishing health financing mechanisms through public funding to cover the full population. Public funding needs to budget for an affordable package of essential health services—from health promotion to prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and palliative care—using
a primary health care approach. Lessons from the pandemic dU r IN G t he Covid-19 pandemic in 2020–2022, public spending on health, mainly via government health budgets, enabled health systems to respond quickly to the emergency. This reflects the advantage of government budgets in financing public health functions, in particular population-based public health interventions, versus other health financing schemes, during times of health emergencies. Government funding ensured that more people were protected and more lives were saved. e m erging from the pandemic, countries are at a crossroads. Governments face difficult decisions as they work to strengthen the resilience of health systems against future health threats while addressing their populations’ healthcare needs in a challenging economic environment.
Tracking global health spending
The key to making better choices on future health investments is timely and reliable evidence on the level and pattern of health spending. For 25 years the W h O h e alth e x penditure Tracking program has had a major influence on how critical information on health spending is compiled and reported at the country level and globally. a m ong its most notable achievements are the establishment of the Global h e alth e x penditure d at abase—the world’s richest source of health expenditure data covering more than 190 countries since 2000-and the Global h e alth e x penditure r e port, which has been published annually since 2017. These global public goods drive informed policymaking, transparency and accountability worldwide.
Efforts for UHC impact
Th I s year’s U h C d a y also provides a platform for a milestone discussion in W h O ’s efforts to advance support and collaboration with countries in reorienting their health systems to advance U h C a nd achieve health security in countries, regions and globally. From d e cember 11 to 13, national health representatives, heads of W hO country offices, and health policy advisers from over 125 countries met in ly on, France to take stock of progress and challenges, agree on priority areas and working methods, and set the agenda for the next phase of the U h C Partnership from 2025-2027. The U h C P artnership is W h O ’s flagship initiative on international cooperation for U h C , which brings W h O and partners together to support concrete actions to achieve U hC It is funded by the e u ropean Union, Belgium, Canada, the French m i nistry for e u rope and Foreign a f fairs, Germany, Irish a i d, the Government of Japan, and the United KingdomForeign, Commonwealth & d e velopment Office.
deaths which can result from unintended pregnancies and unsafe abortions were vital items in the synergy as well.
Focused on making FP services accessible and convenient for Filipinos, especially mothers and the youth, the conference presented innovations and science-based interventions that optimizes achieving national and international targets related to FP, gender equality, and sustainable development.
Based on the Philippines FP 2030 Progress r e port, about 8.7 million (67 percent) women aged 10 to 49 years were using modern FP methods in 2023, which is four
percent higher than the number of users of m odern FP in 2022 and corresponds to an increase of 311,037 women.
As a result of increased “demand satisfied” for modern FP, around three million unintended pregnancies and 800,000 unsafe abortions have been avoided. This has also prevented almost 970 maternal deaths due to complications during childbirth because of risky pregnancy.
“The Commission on Population and Development is committed to enabling an environment for every individual and couple to achieve their family aspirations by upholding their reproductive rights - in -
cluding the right to decide on the number, timing and spacing of children. Through family planning, let us realize our vision of Matatag, Maginhawa at Planadong Pamilyang Pilipino,” said r l i sa Garec S. Bernales, CPD e x ecutive Director V. The 2024 NCFP marks the third iteration of the conference attended by 600 key stakeholders from public and private sectors, with the first held last 2026 and the second last 2017.
& Fitness
The Year ThaT Was:
asian hospiTal promises
The year 2024 has been a remarkable year for premier medical institution Asian h o spital and Medical Center
(A h M C) as it fulfilled its promise to provide world class quality healthcare to more Filipinos through its Alagang Deserve, Alagang Sulit 2.0 campaign. Through the campaign, Asian h o spital introduced value-based packages including Coronary Angiogram and Kidney Transplant Packages. The Coronary Angiogram is offered at P64,500 for the standard package and P67,500 for the conditional usage package. A Colonoscopy costs P12,500, while the Kidney Transplant Package is priced at P1.48 million. Other offerings include Arthroscopic ACL Repair at P72,000, the ILD Pulmonary Test and CT Chest at P22,900, Lap Sleeve Gastrectomy at P510,000, and the Z Benefit Total Knee Replacement Package at P335,000. Asian h o spital also developed cataract packages for their patients. A h M C also developed special maternity packages designed to make very moment as comfortable and as beautiful as possible. The Uncomplicated Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery costs P160,500 for a standard private room exclusive of professional fee of P56,000. For a four-bedded wardroom, package cost is P99,000. For Caesarean Delivery, the package for standard private room is P226,850 exclusive of P77,350 professional fees. The package for four-bedded wardroom is P150,000. The packages for both Uncomplicated Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery and Caesarean Delivery cover delivery room services, newborn screening test, screening for congenital heart diseases, first dose of h e patitis B Vaccine and BCG Vaccine.
Expanding Partnerships, Accessibility
A h MC and Intellicare inaugurated an exclusive wing for Intellicare and Avega h MO members. Located on the 10th floor of A h M C, the wing ensures that Intellicare members requiring admission will have access to dedicated rooms. A h M C also developed surgical packages with Intellicare to bring affordability to their patient members. A referral program that targets private and government institutions is another way that A h M C is making sure that more Filipinos can avail of its services. The he A L or h o spital e ngagement and Alliance Linkage Program is A h M C’s referral program that is designed to establish impactful partnerships with private and government hospitals, clinics, lying ins, dialysis centers and other healthcare providers. The program’s goal is to enhance patient care continuity by providing access to specialized services. The program also offers preferential rates to partner hospitals as well as a direct billing arrangement to he A L partners.
Asian h o spital also takes care of patients from nursing homes and hospital partners with close collaboration with the e m ergency Department, Outpatient/Inpatient Navigation Team to address patients’ emergency needs.
This year also saw the launch of the Nora D. Castro Funds to assist charity patients who are suffering from stroke and undergoing dialysis. Through this initiative and in partnership with the Asian h o spital Charities Inc., A h M C extends compassionate care to the most vulnerable, embodying the values of empathy, generosity and unity.
Community engagements
I T also launched the A h M C Senior Wellness
Club which provides a supportive environment where members can share wellness tips, personal stories, and engage in a variety of activities designed to enhance their quality of life.
For a joining fee of P1,800, members can enjoy a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment, Bio-electrical Impedance Analysis, enjoy monthly activities and food and refreshments during these monthly activities.
To increase its presence in nearby communities and increase awareness specially
in detecting emergencies, Asian h o spital conducted the “Stop h ea rt Attack in Its Tracks” Community Caravan at Ayala Alabang Village. The residents learned about heart attack prevention, underwent health screening, and participated in hands-on CPR training.
The same caravan was conducted in Verdana h o mes in Bacoor, Cavite where it raised awareness and empowered the community to prevent heart attacks. From the lecture of Dr. Marc Louie Del Rosario on heart attack prevention to life-saving CPR training, every moment of the event brought the community one step closer to a healthier, heart-smart future.
In partnership with the City h e alth Office I of Sta. Rosa, Laguna, A h M C conducted the “ h e art Attack and Stroke Community Caravan” at the Sta. Rosa Auditorium. To reach out to the local communities, barangay health workers and City h a ll employees gathered to receive vital, lifesaving information on heart attack and stroke prevention as well as emergency response. The seminar aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge necessary to prevent these medical emergencies and to guide them on the appropriate steps to take should they occur.
Meanwhile, the Nutrition and Dietetics Department of Asia Pacific Medical Center Iloilo (APMCI) recently conducted a benchmarking activity with two renowned Joint Commission International (JCI)-accredited hospitals in the Philippines, including Asian h o spital and Medical Center in Muntinlupa. This strategic initiative is designed to gath -
The Department of Internal Medicine at Asian h o spital successfully held its 15th Post-graduate Course, titled “Advances in h e alth and Medical Care in Internal Medicine: A Multidisciplinary Perspective and Intersections,” at the Grand Ballroom, Acacia h o tel. The event featured a diverse lineup of medical professionals, with notable speakers and experts from various fields.
Doctors engagement D OCTORS eng agement was also a top agenda for Asian h o spital this year. The hospital opened a Doctor’s Lounge
er insights into best practices, innovative approaches, and operational efficiencies in the field of Nutrition and Dietetics. By learning from these JCI accredited institutions APMCI aims to raise its own standards and continue providing world-class Nutrition and Dietetics services to its patients and stakeholders.
New facilities, equipment
A h M C expanded its services this year with major investments in facilities and cuttingedge equipment to be able to serve different patient needs across all sectors.
The new 9th Floor Infusion & Transplant Services facility provides specialized care for infusion therapies and transplants. To combat tuberculosis, A h M C launched the TB DOTS Center, focused on screening, diagnosis, and treatment adherence.
New imaging equipment includes the SP e CT-CT, which creates 3D images to monitor brain disorders, heart conditions, and bone diseases. A h M C also introduced the 256-slice CT Scan, which delivers results within four hours, along with a new MRI machine and Bone Mineral Densitometry
unit to improve diagnostics and accommodate more patients.
In November, A h M C launched and announced that the newly renovated facilities can now cater to more patients and address their healthcare needs. Patients can now have their checkups at the upgraded spaces of the Center for e x ecutive h eal th, Asian Diabetes Center, Asian Brain Institute and Asian Weight Management and Bariatric Center.
Digital innovation
A h M C enhanced patient experience through digital platforms. The Online Concierge, initiated by Metro Pacific h eal th, allows patients to request housekeeping, dietary needs, and other non-medical services, freeing nurses to focus on medical care. The inhouse Patient Portal provides a convenient way for patients to access results and select hospital procedures online.
A h MC relaunched the Asian Diabetes Center’s JAD e Program in celebration of Diabetes Awareness Week. It is a web-based program that uses information technology to improve diabetes care through targeted management, informed by risk assessments
available on the JAD e Portal.
Enhanced training
I T w as also a busy year for the hospital in terms or training programs. It kicked of the year with the 7th Clinical Innovation Summit titled “Faster, Better, Safer: Medicine @ the Speed of Life” at the Acacia h o tel in Muntinlupa City.
Nursing care and healthcare excellence was brought to the next level with the opening of the Florence Lim-Chan Simulation Lab. Located on the 7th floor of Tower
2, this state-of-the-art facility is designed as a premier training ground for nurses in the aim to provide excellent patient care consistently.
The lab enables nurses to hone their skills and expand their knowledge in a simulated, real-world environment. e q uipped with the latest technology and realistic medical scenarios, the lab provides hands-on experience, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Several postgraduate courses were also conducted during the year. Asian h o spital conducted the 3rd Postgraduate Course of the Asian Cardiovascular Institute. Titled “InnovAsian: e merging Treatments and Technologies in Cardiovascular h eal th” took place last September 7.
This was followed on September 11 by the Department of Neurosciences 7th postgraduate course titled “Looking through a Kaleidoscope of Neurology: A Multi-facted Case Approach”
to Planet Care” sustainability initiative, which implemented energy-saving measures to advance environmental responsibility.
It also received the Gold Award for Clinical e f fectiveness Improvement at the h M A Awards, for its groundbreaking «B e FAST for STROK e » program. This prestigious honor highlights our unwavering commitment to providing safer and more effective care, distinguishing us from 307 entries across 113 hospitals in 15 countries.
A h M C was also recognized as one of the Philippines’ Best e mp loyers by the Philippine Daily Inquirer and international market research firm Statista. This recognition highlights Asian h o spital’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional patient care while fostering an outstanding work environment for its employees. The hospital has excelled in key areas such as employee welfare, career development, workplace culture, and
Commitment to Accessibility and Excellence AT t he
Tamesis said he
of
pected more patients and patrons to avail of the hospital’s services through more strategic partnerships, more service flow enhancements and new equipment. “Asian h o spital really wants more patients to access our services because we have the best doctors in the world practicing here. Our philosophy has really been let’s make sure we are accessible, that people get what they deserve. h e nce, the tagline, ‘Alagang Deserve, Alagang Sulit’ was born,” Dr. Tamesis added.
With its continuous pursuit of innovation, accessibility, and excellence, Asian h o spital looks forward to serving more Filipinos in the years to come.
IN the photo are, from left, Asian Hospital President and CEO Dr. Beaver Tamesis, Jose Mari Chan, Asian Hospital Director of Nursing Dr. Carolina Buhain and Muntinlupa City Mayor ruffy
The Medical City Clark Secures Gold Seal® of Approval from JCI
he Medical City (TMC) proud -
Tly announces The Medical City Clark’s (TMC Clark) accreditation by the globally renowned Joint Commission International (JCI), earning the Gold Seal of Approval® and establishing itself as a leader in healthcare excellence in North and Central Luzon. JCI sets the gold standard in healthcare quality and safety, granting accreditation only to organizations that meet its rigorous benchmarks. Achieving this accreditation signifies that TMC Clark adheres to global best practices and is leading the way in redefining healthcare delivery in the region.
Dr. Noelito M. Lacsamana, President and C e O of TMC Clark, expressed heartfelt gratitude for this historic achievement, acknowledging the contributions and dedication of its employees to excellent healthcare.
“This accreditation represents our hospital’s dedication to providing safe, high-quality patient care, and reflects the collective effort of every team member who has worked tirelessly to raise the bar for healthcare in the region. We are shaping the future of healthcare in North and Central Luzon together.”
The journey to JCI accreditation spanned years of rigorous preparation, with every hospital department,
along with its doctors and staff, playing a vital role in implementing global safety protocols and enhancing patient care processes.
Advancing Healthcare in North, Central Luzon Th IS r emarkable achievement positions TMC Clark as a referral center of choice in North and Central Luzon, bringing world-class care closer to communities in the region. It also aligns with enterprise-wide mission of TMC of providing top-tier healthcare services across the Philippine. TMC Ortigas recently received its 7th JCI re-accreditation in October 2024.
The Gold Seal of Approval® symbolizes TMC’s alignment with global standards. This recognition assures patients of the hospital’s dedication to implementing robust protocols that adhere to patient safety, continuously improving healthcare delivery and outcomes, and operating with efficiency, transparency, and accountability.
The Medical City Clark, located within the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga, is a 103-bed hospital that combines state-of-the-art facilities with patient-centered healthcare. In 2024, it became the first hospital in North and Central Luzon to achieve the prestigious TMC Clark is part of The Medical
City network, the largest healthcare network in the Philippines, which serves over 2 million outpatients and 33,000 inpatients annually. This network includes the flagship hospital in Ortigas, Pasig City; provincial hospitals in South Luzon, Iloilo, and
Pangasinan; and nearly 70 outpatient clinics nationwide. As a member of this prestigious network, TMC Clark is poised to become the referral center of choice for North and Central Luzon, bringing world-class care closer to the communities it serves.
Did They Get Hacked? 5 celebrities speak out about this ‘Viral Attack’
VIDe O S o f beloved stars—Kim Atienza, Ian Veneracion, Marc Nelson, Julie e i genmann, and Jackie Lou Blanco—left fans in shock when their usual fun and engaging clips suddenly glitched, only to be interrupted by an ominous message about an “ h Z _90 virus.”
To clear the air, actor Ian Veneracion addressed the buzz in a video, stating, “Akala nila, baka na-hack na yung account ko. h i ndi po ako na-hack [They thought my account might have been hacked. I was not hacked].” So, if there was no hacking involved, what’s the real story behind this viral takeover? The actor revealed that he took part in a campaign that raises awareness about a serious disease.
h i s fans often catch glimpses of him on his big bikes, embarking on road trips that reflect his dedication to a healthy lifestyle, one of the ways he maintains his looks and charm as one of the industry’s leading men. This focus is why Ian is raising awareness about this serious disease.
Like him, TV host Kim Atienza, popularly known as “Kuya Kim,” recognizes the importance of taking care of one’s health. h i s journey is particu -
This holiday season, Listerine and Operation s m ile Philippines (O s P) are spreading hope and transforming lives with the Gift A s m ile Campaign. Through this inspiring initiative, five s p eech Camps have been launched across the country, offering free speech therapy and oral health education to children who underwent corrective cleft surgeries. These camps not only help children rediscover their voices but also empower them with healthy, confident smiles, making the season brighter for families nationwide. With cleft conditions affecting 1 in 700 babies born globally, the challenges go beyond physical appearance. Children with cleft palate often struggle with speech and are more vulnerable to oral health issues. While surgery addresses structural concerns, comprehensive cleft care, such as speech therapy, is essential for their development.
larly inspiring, especially considering the health scares like stroke and being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that once led him to step back from the public eye on TV. But Kuya Kim continues to inspire his followers by promoting an active lifestyle, with his Instagram feed filled with snapshots of him conquering triathlons. Now he used his platform to inform about the serious disease that the campaign aims to highlight.
In his signature informative style, he explains, “Ang shingles ay nagpepresenta bilang paltos o di kaya’y mga pantal-pantal or painful rashes sa balat. Nakakabahala, diba? Ang virus na ito ay nananatili sa system mo at hinihintay na lamang na mareactivate bilang shingles ng walang ka-warning-warning kahit feeling mo healthy ka[Shingles presents as blisters or perhaps hives or painful rashes on the skin. Worrying, isn’t it? This virus remains in your system and is just waiting to be reactivated as shingles without warning even if you feel healthy.]”
The real viral attack TV host Marc Nelson shared his per -
As part of its mission to transform lives, Listerine partnered with Operation s m ile Philippines to donate ₱10 per bottle sold from s ep tember 22 to December 31, 2024. These contributions funded five s p eech Camps in Cavite, Pampanga, Laoag, Naga, and Batangas, offering speech therapy to 20 children and equipping their families with oral health education.
The program kicked off in a heartwarming s p eech Camp in Batangas, held at the Rotary Center - Rotary Club of Lipa City. The event brought together 20 speech pathologists and the Listerine® team to create a day filled with therapy exercises, games, and learning sessions on proper oral care.
“Listerine believes that healthy smiles are meant for all, and we thank our partners at Watsons and Operation s m ile for helping us realize this mission,” said Robierina Carlos, s ho pper Marketing Manager
spective on shingles, drawing from a personal experience involving someone close to him. “I remember one of my best friends got shingles a few years ago, and he was in so much pain and itchy discomfort for weeks. he w as one of the lucky ones—some people deal with it for months.”
As someone who values fitness and enjoys outdoor adventures like hiking, Marc understands the importance of staying in tune with his body. h e b ecame acutely aware that shingles can bring debilitating pain, leaving individuals unable to engage in activities they love.
So, what exactly is shingles? Shingles, also known as herpes zoster ( h Z ), is a painful viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus responsible for chickenpox. e v en after recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate later in life as shingles, especially in adults over 50. So the hZ_90 campaign cleverly employs digital glitches as a metaphor for how shingles can suddenly disrupt life, much like a digital interruption. Being aware by this, Julie e i genmann, the wife of actor Michael De
Mesa, expressed her concerns about being at risk. “I had chickenpox as a teen, which means I’m at risk of getting shingles.” Just like her, who shares valuable advice on tackling home projects and lifestyle hacks, there are effective ways to prevent this disease.
Veteran actress Jackie Lou Blanco previously shared that embracing change and making necessary adjustments is key to aging gracefully and maintaining good health. She emphasized the importance of discussing prevention and treatment options with healthcare providers. “A proper diet, good sleeping habits, regular exercise, and getting vaccinated are effective ways to maintain strong immunity and prevent diseases like shingles. ”
The h Z _90 campaign aims to empower individuals to recognize the signs of shingles and take preventive measures before this unexpected invader strikes. Taking preventive steps now can help you avoid the pain and discomfort of shingles in the future. Consult your doctor for shingles treatment and prevention or visit whatisshingles.ph for more information.
ExPErT TIPS fOr HEALTHy SkIN DurINg CANCEr TrEATMENT
By Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
MAN y c ancer treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can lead to uncomfortable skin side effects, such as rashes, dryness, and itchiness. While these issues may resolve on their own, proactive skin care measures can help prevent complications and enhance a patient’s quality of life during treatment.
Dr. Claire Marie Reyes- h a bito, Supportive Onco Dermatology Section h e ad at h e althway Cancer Care h o spital ( h C C h ), recommended consulting a dermatologist before starting cancer treatment. This can help address pre-existing skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis and minimize potential skin discomfort during treatment.
“We can assist you on what to expect on the medications that we’ll be given to you. One of the things that I try to tell patients or my colleagues is, sana not just a reactive way, yung pag andyan na yung rash saka tayo magrerespond (Let us not just be reactive, that we’ll only respond once the rash is there). There are ways prophylactically to try to minimize the reactions as much as we can,” said Dr. Reyes- h a bito.
Supportive care
D R Reyes- h a bito is a member of the e u ropean Association of Dermato Oncology and the e u ropean Academy of Dermatology Task Force for Cancer Patients. She is also part of the Oncodermatology Study Group of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer which promotes clinical guidelines in management of targeted and radiation therapy adverse events in skin.
She authored and published a book “Staying Beautiful and h o peful: A Cancer Patient Skin Care Guide” to help cancer patients with their skin concerns. She is also the President and C e O o f Skin Care for h o pe, a local skin care line for sensitive skin especially for cancer and elderly patients.
During a recent forum held at h C C h , D r. Reyes- h a bito advised patients to incorporate a daily moisturizing routine using a mild soap to help protect their skin during cancer treatment. Patients should apply moisturizer to their face and body every day to keep their skin hydrated.
Dermatologists recommend a basic skincare routine for chemotherapy patients. This includes using a mild, SLS-free shampoo for the hair
and coconut oil for the scalp, a gentle moisturizing soap for the body, a fragrance-free moisturizer for the face and body, and sunscreen. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a common ingredient in many personal care products, including shampoos. SLS-free shampoos can help maintain moisture and reduce irritation for sensitive skin or hair.
Dr. h a bito-Reyes likewise advised patients to wait until their hair grows to one to three inches before dyeing it. When dyeing their hair at this length, they should only use natural hair dyes.
Caring for the skin during radiation therapy
R A DIATION t herapy can make the skin very sensitive. It’s important to be gentle with the skin and take extra care of it during treatment.
Dr. h a bito-Reyes cited skin care tips for individuals undergoing radiation therapy. To gently cleanse the irradiated area, a mild cleanser should be used, avoiding harsh scrubs. To keep the skin moisturized, a thick, fragrance-free moisturizer should be applied at least two to three times daily, and whenever the skin is itchy or dry. Additionally, topical steroid creams, prescribed by a doctor, can help alleviate discomfort and itching. She also advised patients to take care of their nails by having a manicure or pedicure every two to four weeks. h o wever, to minimize the risk of infection, she recommended doing these procedures at home using personal nail tools.
Supportive Oncodermatology Program
O N e of the distinct features of h h C h , t he country’s first dedicated cancer hospital, is its Quality-ofLife Department that collaborates with the hospital’s Centers of e x cellence and multidisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive supportive care for cancer patients. Upon diagnosis, patients are referred to this department to access a range of services, including Rehabilitation, Nutrition, Symptom Management and Palliative Care, and Supportive Oncodermatology among others. Dr. h a bito-Reyes said the Supportive Oncodermatology Program under the h C C h - Q OL Department helps patients complete their cancer treatments with less interruptions by minimizing the impact of skin-related side effects. The program offers a range of dermatological services, including treatment of skin reactions to cancer therapy, wound care, skin cancer screening, and biopsy.
for Oral Care, Kenvue Philippines. “We are proud to have funded these s p eech Camps in 2024, where we’ve helped bring back smiles to these kids while educating families on protecting their mouths with proper oral health.
Until December 31, every Listerine special Operation s m ile pack available at Watsons will continue to fund speech therapy sessions. Please visit Watsons to support this meaningful partnership.”
The backlog of children awaiting cleft care in the Philippines remains at a staggering 200,000. With the holidays upon us, Listerine and Operation s m ile call on the public to embrace the spirit of giving by:
1. Referring cleft patients for free comprehensive cleft care, including surgery, dental services, and speech therapy.
2. Volunteering as medical professionals or support staff.
3. Donating to sustain life-changing
initiatives like the Gift A s m ile Campaign.
“The s p eech Camp is O s P s p eech-Language Pathology Unit’s testament to staying truthful to our mission to provide comprehensive cleft care,” said Anton De Leon, O i C- h e ad, O s P s p eech-Language Pathology Unit. “This initiative ensures children and families from local surgical activity sites receive the training, assessment, and therapy they need, with home instructions provided by our dedicated speech-language pathology volunteers.”
For children with cleft conditions, oral health goes beyond appearance; it’s a vital part to overall well-being. At the s p eech Camps families discovered the power of proper oral hygiene, guided by the Listerine team, to protect and celebrate children’s new and healthy smiles. This holiday season, ignite the spirit of giving and help ensure every child’s smile shines bright with confidence and joy.
TMC Clark joins the ranks of world-class hospitals with its first JCI accreditation, celebrating dual success with TMC Ortigas on its 7th.