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A broader look at today’s business

DOTR OPENS NAIA DEAL BIDS AMID QUESTIONS www.businessmirror.com.ph

B L S. M

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Thursday, December 28, 2023 Vol. 19 No. 76

P.  |     | 7 DAYS A WEEK

DBM pushes new law on government procurement

@lorenzmarasigan

ESPITE some arguments over the law governing the auction for the P170.6-billion privatization deal for the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia), the Department of Transportation (DOTr) pushed through with the opening of the bids on Wednesday.

At least four groups submitted their bids before the 10 a.m. deadline on Wednesday: Manila International Airport Consortium, Asian Airport Consortium, GMR Airports Consortium and SMCSAP and Co. Consortium. Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista explained that “today completeness of documentary requirements submitted by the bidders will be reviewed by BAC. After 10 days, the technical qualifications will be reviewed.” Manila International Airport Consortium is composed of GIP EM MIAC Pte. Ltd, Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc., AC Infrastructure Holdings Inc., Alliance Global Infracorp Development Inc., Asia’s Emerging Dragon Corp., Filinvest Development Corp., JG Summit Holdings Corp. Meanwhile, Asian Infrastruc-

B J E Y. A @jearcalas

ture and Management Corp., Cosco Capital Inc., Philippine Skylanders International Inc., and PT Angkasa Pura II make up the Asian Airport Consortium. GMR Airports Consortium is a partnership among GMR Airports International BV, Cavitex Holdings Inc., and House of Investments Inc. Lastly, SMC-SAP and Co. Consortium consists of San Miguel Holdings Corp., RMM Asian Logistics Inc., RLW Aviation Development Inc., and Incheon International Airport Corp. There were eight groups that bought bid documents for the project: GMR Airports International, San Miguel Holdings Corp., Manila International Airport Consortium, Spark 888 Management, Asian Airport Consortium, Cengiz Insaat S “DOT,” A

MAHARLIKA BEING BUILT ‘BRICK BY BRICK’–PCEO

TATE-OWNED Maharlika Investment Corp. (MIC) is now moving toward being operationalized within the first quarter next year as its officials may soon start building its management team, its President and CEO (PCEO) said. PCEO Rafael D. Consing Jr. said the first order of business for the MIC’s newly formed board of directors is to organize and eventually begin the hiring process for the governmentowned and -controlled corporation. “We have to organize the board and get the proper authorization to begin the hiring process,” Consing told the BM in a recent interview. Earlier this month, Presi-

dent Marcos Jr. appointed four regular and independent directors of the MIC, filling majority of the seats and leaving one regular director seat vacant. With the latest appointments, eight out of the nine MIC Board seats have been filled, including the ex-officio positions held by the Secretary of Finance, and the Presidents of the Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines. Consing said he has begun writing at least 23 technical job descriptions since he assumed the highest position of the MIC in October. Consing said the three priority frameworks that the MIC S “M,” A

TIMELESS THEME

The Philippine Postal Corporation celebrates Christmas 2023 with a special release of postage stamps featuring the timeless Mother and Child artworks by acclaimed visual artist Al Perez. The stamps capture the profound love and enduring bond between a mother and her child, echoing the sacred and noble vocation of motherhood. Al Perez, known for his meticulous watercolor renditions of old churches, brings his expertise to portray the motherly love through colorful artworks. With 20,000 copies of four unique designs and 800 limited first-day cover envelopes, these stamps, priced at P16, serve as both a collector’s item and a heartfelt representation of the Christian origin and symbolism of Mother and Child in art. Available at the Manila Central Post Office Annex Bldg., these stamps beautifully encapsulate the essence of Christmas and the artistry of Al Perez. PHILIPPINE POSTAL CORPORATION

HE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Wednesday pushed for the enactment of the new Government Procurement Reform Act (GPRA), arguing that the proposed legislation would address current gaps in the state’s procurement system. Some of the new features that the proposed amended GPRA would bring to the table revolve around the digitalization of existing government practices from bidding announcement to procurement and payment itself. “Towards efficiency, we will streamline processes through digitalization and innovation by adopting electronic [e]-bidding and by modernizing the centralized procurement system of the Procurement Service [PS]-DBM,” Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said. The DBM cited President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s earlier pronouncement urging the Congress to enact a new government procurement law and a new government auditing code to make procurement and auditing “more attuned to these changing times.” “The proposed new GPRA aims to promote transparency, competitiveness, efficiency, proportionality, accountability, public monitoring, procurement professionalization, and sustainability in government procurement,” Pangandaman said. “The Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System [PhilGEPS] offers innovative features and solutions, including e-reverse auction, e-shopping/esmall-value procurement, and the e-marketplace which will be expanded to include non-commonuse supplies with a registration facility for qualified suppliers,” Pangandaman added. Under the proposed new GPRA, the PhilGEPS would serve as the central electronic procurement portal of the government for all its needs and requirements, according to the DBM. “All government procuring entities are required to register with S “PHL,” A

PHL expects 571MT rice to come in till Feb

HE Philippines expects the entry of 571,000 metric tons (MT) of rice this month until February, with most of the volume coming in through private traders, as the country braces for the adverse effects of El Niño. The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Wednesday said the rice is the result of private traders’ commitment to government and some donations. Agriculture Undersecretary for Operations-OIC Roger V. Navarro said the private traders have committed to import at least 495,000 MT when they secured their respective sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPSICs). Navarro pointed out that the importation is in compliance with the agreement between Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu

Laurel Jr. and private traders and importers who are holding valid SPSICs. “We received reports that around 100,000 tons of imported rice has already arrived in the country. This is part of the 495,000 metric tons committed by import permit holders to Secretary Tiu Laurel,” Navarro said. Navarro disclosed that at least 75,000 MT out of the 295,000 MT of rice allowed by India to be exported to the Philippines will arrive within the last week of December and early January. Furthermore, Navarro said half of the 2,000 MT donated by Taiwan to the Philippines already arrived before Christmas day. “With the arrival of imported rice and the volume harvested by farmers in recent months, the country will have sufficient supply

of the national food staple until the next harvest which starts in March,” Navarro added. The country’s rice imports as of mid-December have breached the 3.2 million MT level, with over 130,000 MT arriving in the first 14 days of this month, according to the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI). Latest BPI data showed that total rice imports as of December 14 reached 3.223 MMT, some 603,000 MT lower than the 3.826 MMT recorded full-year import volume last year. The DA earlier projected that the country’s total rice imports this year could settle at around 3.65 MMT, if the remaining valid import volume arrives in the country.

(Related story: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2023/12/14/rice-importsto-fall-by-5-due-to-high-prices/)

BPI data also showed that Vietnam remained the country’s top source of imported rice, accounting for 87 percent of the total import volume as of December 14. The data also showed that BPI approved and issued 557 sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPSICs) in December for the importation of 444,270.4 MT of rice. Under the updated rules and regulations of the Department of Agriculture, the approved rice import volume must enter the country within 30 days after the corresponding SPSICs were issued. Agriculture officials earlier cautioned that without rice imports coming in the next few months, particularly in January and FebruS “R,” A

PESO EXCHANGE RATES US 55.3830 ■ JAPAN 0.3890 ■ UK 70.5026 ■ HK 7.0937 ■ SINGAPORE 41.8522 ■ AUSTRALIA 37.7934 ■ SAUDI ARABIA 14.8967 ■ EU 61.1761 ■ KOREA 0.0428 ■ CHINA 7.7540 Source: BSP (December 27, 2023)

News BusinessMirror

Thursday, December 28, 2023

DOTr...

C  A

www.businessmirror.com.ph

7 Pinoy tourists in ravine mishap Maharlika... discharged from hospital–MECO C  A

Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S., and Incheon Airport Corp.

ADB wanted deferment

THE government stuck to its December 27 deadline for the submission of bids despite the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) recommendation to extend the auction by a month. Reportedly, some industry stakeholders are questioning the law that will govern the bidding, as the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code took effect on December 23, overriding the Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) Law. The Naia Privatization Project is a Rehabilitate-Operate-ExpandTransfer (ROET) deal led by the DOTr and the Manila International Airport Authority (Miaa). Under the initial terms of reference for the deal, the winning consortium shall provide an upfront payment of P30 billion to the government as premium and another P2 billion in annuity payments. It is also required to remit a certain percentage of the revenues to the government. This will be the main bid parameter for the auction—the higher the proposed share of the government in the Naia’s revenues are, the better. The concession was initially set for 15 years with an option to extend by 10 years as long as the concessionaire is “not in flagrant violation of the concession agreement.” The Naia PPP seeks to rehabilitate and expand the current threeterminal gateway in Manila. Once completed, its capacity shall be expanded from 35 million passengers per annum (MPPA) to 62 MMPA.

B M T-B

@maloutalosig

HE seven Filipinos who fell into a 30-meter ravine in central Taiwan in a freak Christmas Eve vehicular accident have all been discharged from the hospital, the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) said.

Reports reaching former Labor chief now MECO chairman and resident representative Silvestre H. Bello III, said two of the Filipino casualties are factory workers in Taiwan, two are teachers from Vietnam, while three are tourists

from the Philippines. They were identified as: ■ Fidel Racho Bugarin, male, 31 ■ Georgette Azada, female, 30 ■ Claire Almediere Azada, female, 26 ■ Marphie Yusuke Santos Ta-

bata, male, 34 ■ Ralph Roland Gibas Banaag, male, 32 ■ Maribel Yagui Javier, female, 36 ■ Diane Mercado Drio, female, 31 According to the reports received by MECO, the Filipinos have engaged the services of a tour operator in Taiwan that would bring them to the Hehuan Mountain in the Congaing area of Ren’ai Township, Nantou County. Around 5 p.m. on December 24, the van carrying the Filipino tourists fell down a slope about 30 meters deep at 15.8 kilometers of Route 14A in Ren’ai Township. The Taiwanese driver on the van was driving through “sharp bend” of the road and “lost control.” The

reason for the accident is still unknown. Police, firefighters and rescue workers rushed to the scene and rescued the Filipinos and Taiwanese driver. The Azada sisters—Claire and Georgette—both sustained injuries in their right arms. Bugarin dislocated his right arm, and Tabata needed to undergo surgery for arm fracture, too. Banaag had bruises on both legs, while Drio had face contusion. Only Javier did not suffer from any injury. Bello told the BM that the tour operator will shoulder the medical and other related expenses of the Filipino tourists. “MECO will provide further assistance when necessary,” he assured.

BIZ GROUPS SET CAMPAIGN TO CREATE 1-M JOBS T HREE of the country’s most influential business organizations are setting in motion in January a massive employmentgeneration campaign that targets to yield over one million jobs in the span of about one year. Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr., president of the Employers’ Confederation of the Philippines (Ecop), on Wednesday said “Project Jobs” is being jointly pursued with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Indus-

try (PCCI) and Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (Philexport). Ortiz-Luis said the initiative has been in the drawing board since 2021, but it never materialized due to pandemic restrictions and a change in national leadership. He said an Ecop-led secretariat of Project Jobs will soon be established, followed by a digital platform intended to inform jobseekers how they can take part in the program. “We [Ecop, PCCI, Philexport] have

held several meetings on this [Project Jobs]...all that is left is to actually launch the program. Our member companies will soon conduct joint job fairs [as part of the initiative]. There are also plans to hold training and seminars to ensure that potential hires are qualified [for the jobs to be offered],” he told the Philippine News Agency. Ortiz-Luis, who is also Philexport’s president, said job matching mechanisms will be put together

Rice...

C  A

ary, the country would have thin grain stocks, especially amid the anticipated impact of El Niño on domestic rice production. “Without [rice] imports, we will have less than 39 days at the end of the first semester and 61 days at the end of March, which is very thin supply considering our archipelagic condition. We cannot spread the 61 days [stock level] evenly, so we need to import,” Agriculture Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development Leocadio S. Sebastian said earlier. (Related story: www.businessmirror.com.ph/2023/12/15/ da-sees-domestic-milled-rice-output-decline-in-h1-2024-amid-elnino-threat)

once the secretariat has been established, and from there, companies under the three business groups’ respective banners can lay out their respective workforce requirements. He said the objective is not only to create jobs to help the unemployed, but also to ensure that member companies gain access to the most qualified workers in the labor pool. “What makes Project Jobs unique is that now, we are targeting people from the informal sector. It is estimated that 86 percent of the country’s workforce are in the informal sector. There are many qualified workers out there who have never gotten the chance to work for a company. We want to tap this sector... and give them a chance to enjoy the stability of the formal sector,” OrtizLuis said. He further revealed that the weight of the SM Group, with its numerous retail businesses, is firmly behind the program. The business leader added Teresita Sy-Coson, vice chairman of SM Investments Corporation (SMIC), is one of the proponents of the private sector-led jobs campaign, and has committed to support it through companies under the SM banner. Ortiz-Luis said that once the 1 million jobs target has been attained, the allied business organizations may opt to maintain the Project Jobs secretariat to serve as a permanent office to help member companies with sourcing and cultivating talent. PNA

Board must undertake are the following: governance, investment, and risk management. “Those are the three most important tasks that the board [must do] in the first two months of our operations,” Consing said.

Organizational structure

NEX on the MIC Board’s to-do list is the organizational structure which would undergo scrutiny and approval by the Governance Commission on GOCCs (GCG) and the President himself. The MIC is under the purview of the GCG since it is a government-owned and -controlled corporation. Once the corporate structure is established, Consing said the hiring process ensues. “Once that is done, I can go back to our shortlist [of candidates]. I am putting together a shortlist of candidates,” he said. Consing said he plans to establish three key groups within the MIC to help in materializing the goals of the GOCC: investment management group, risk management group, and the finance group. Consing disclosed he has been receiving curriculum vitaes both online and offline since he assumed the MIC PCEO position. For the Chief Investment and Operations Officer (CIOO) position, Consing said he has already five curriculum vitaes (CVs) with two shortlists. For the senior investment officer who would be part of the MIC’s investment management group, at least six CVs have been submitted to him. Consing added that he has three CVs each for the finance management and risk management groups. Consing disclosed that MIC would also hire a special adviser to the PCEO regarding governance and compliance. He has one CV for the internal auditor position and none for the external auditor so far. “Many of them, I would say—70 percent—were sent to me via LinkedIn and I read all of them the moment there is a CV. I also have recommendees from friends as well as referrals,” he said. Consing described the majority of the applicants as “young” mid-managers who all “share” a “passion to serve the country.” “I am building Maharlika brick by brick,” he said.

DBM pushes new law on government procurement C  A

PhilGEPS for the purchase of common-use supplies and equipment [CSEs] and utilize its additional innovative features and solutions in accordance with the rules and procedures issued by the Government Procurement Policy Board [GPPB],” the DBM said. “All government procuring entities are required to register with PhilGEPS for access to an online network to facilitate the open, speedy, and efficient online transmission, conveyance, and use of electronic data messages or electronic documents,” it added.

Reverse auction, e-bidding

THE DBM revealed that some of the new features proposed under the new GPRA cater to the needs of the state from announcement of procurement opportunities to selection of bids until settlement of contracts. First, an electronic bulletin board would be established that would list online all the procure-

ment opportunities, notices, awards and even reasons for awarding from all state procuring entities. The state will also build a digital registry of all accredited and eligible manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, contractors and consultants that all government agencies can access online. Aside from the e-marketplace that the DBM disclosed earlier this year, the new GPRA would also lead to the implementation of digital reverse auction and bidding. “Electronic Reverse Auction [is] an online auction where a procuring entity invites suppliers to submit bids for specific goods and services on a specific date and time duration, based on defined specifications for design, quantity, quality, delivery, and related terms and conditions, and compete by outbidding each other through lower offers or amounts they are willing to accept,” the DBM said. “At the close of the reverse auction duration, to be defined by the procuring entity, the procurement contract shall be awarded to

the last complying bid,” the DBM added. Meanwhile, the digital payment system will now allow the state to pay suppliers of CSEs electronically through e-wallets or the use of credit cards. Likewise, bidders can may settle their payments for bidding documents and bid securities through the same system. The proposed new GPRA will also pave the way for the implementation of electronic bidding allowing the submission of annual procurement plan, conduct of prebid conferences and opening of bids electronically. “It covers the entire procurement process from planning, posting of bid opportunities and bidding documents, pre-bid conferences, receipt and opening of bids, evaluation of bids, post qualification, recommendation and award of contract, contract management, and implementation, including construction tract terminations, and payment which shall apply to goods, infrastructure, and consulting services,” the DBM said.

Thursday, December 28, 2023

www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

Groups intensify campaign against hazardous firecrackers, fireworks

ESS than a week before the New Year’s Eve revelry, environmental groups intensified the campaign against illegal firecrackers and fireworks. The group BAN Toxics, for one, is calling on the Philippine National Police (PNP) and local government units (LGUs) to address the rampant sale of prohibited and hazardous firecrackers and fireworks. Prohibited firecrackers have consistently been identified as a major culprit in firecracker-related injuries in recent years. Some of the illegal firecrackers and fireworks are Atomic, Piccolo in various sizes, Special Plapla packs of ten, Whistle Bombs, Bawang and Five-Star, and even a “Dugong”—a triangular firecracker measuring 12 by 8.5 inches. “We urge the PNP and LGUs to intensify on-site monitoring and confiscation of illegal firecrackers as New Year’s Eve approaches,” said Thony Dizon, Toxics Campaigner of BAN Toxics. The continuous sale of these illegal firecrackers poses a significant threat, especially to children. Firecrackers are not only hazardous to health but also detrimental to the environment, he said. Recent reports indicate a surge in firecracker-related injuries, with 52 cases recorded from December 22 to 26, just days before New Year’s Eve celebrations. The National Capital Region reported 20 cases, Region 3 logged six, and Region 12

recorded five. The Health Secretary highlighted 11 instances of Firework-Related injuries (FWRI) in residential areas, with other cases occurring on streets and at an assigned area for fireworks displays. The group launched the “Iwas paputok, Iwas disgrasya, Iwas polusyon” campaign in partnership with the school, local officials, and representatives from the Philippine National Police and Bureau of Fire Protection, urging the public not to use firecrackers and promote a toxicfree and waste-free New Year’s celebration. To prevent firecracker-related injuries, BAN Toxics expressed its support to the call of DILG Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos to totally ban the sale and use of firecrackers nationwide and urge the LGUs to enforce the existing firecracker ban and regulations as well as enact ordinances banning the use and sale of firecrackers. On December 19, the DILG issued a Memorandum Circular (2023-202) urging cities and municipalities to pass ordinances and issue regulations banning individual, personal, or household use of any kind of firecrackers. “We must shift away from the traditional harmful use of firecrackers. ‘Safety first, Health first’ for our children and the community is crucial to make our celebration of New Year’s Eve a safer one,” said BAN Toxics. Jonathan L. Mayuga

‘Largest investment scam in PHL history’: RTC sends 3 KAPA execs to life in prison By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox

AVAO CITY—The three identified masterminds of the “ largest investment scam” in the country were sentenced to life imprisonment for fraud and deceit to amass profit. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) announced i n a r e c e nt s t a t e m e nt t h a t Branch 33 of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Butuan City sent to life imprisonment Joel Apolinario, Cristobal R. Baradad, and Joji A. Jusay after the RTC found them “guilty beyond reasonable doubt of eight counts of syndicated estafa, as defined a nd pena l i zed u nder A r t ic le

315 (2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code, in relation to Presidential Decree No. 1689.” The SEC said Apolinario, who was also referred to as “Pastor Joel,” was the founder and president of Kapa Community Ministry International Inc. (Kapa), while Baradad and Jusay were among its incorporators. “All three were sentenced to suffer the penalty of life imprisonment, and to pay eight actual damages amounting to P195,000 to complainants,” the SEC said. The SEC described the operation of Kapa as the “largest investment scam in Philippine history.” The RTC decision was promulgated on December 12. It said the RTC “ found all

elements of estafa present in the case.” “Clearly, [Apolinario] together with [Baradad and Jusay] employed fraud or deceit by falsely pretending or misrepresenting that they are authorized by the SEC to engage in profit-making business when in truth and in fact, they are not authorized to do so being a non-stock corporation,” the RTC said. The accused promised investors a 30 percent monthly interest for life on their investments. “Relying on this false pretense, the complainants were duped to invest their money. As a result, they suffered damage since nothing was returned from their investments,” the RTC added.

PNP sees no security threat for ‘Traslacion’

HE Philippine National Police (PNP) is still to detect any security threats for the annual Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, also known as the “Traslacion,” which falls on January 9 of every year. Despite this, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said they would intensify their surveillance and intelligence operations in support of the annual religious event to

ensure that it would be concluded without any incident. She added that they are now coordinating with other security agencies to determine if there are any “vulnerabilities” and plan accordingly to address these. The PNP spokesperson also s a id t h at t he M a n i l a Pol ice Distr ict, whic h has jur isd iction over the Quiapo district, is now conducting “simulation,

communication e xercises, wa l k through ” starting at the Quir ino Gra nd st a nd in R i za l Pa rk and up to the Minor Basi lica of t he Bl ac k Na za rene of Qu i apo C hu rc h in Quezon Bou leva rd. The procession will start from Quirino Grandstand, turn left to Katigbak Street; pass through Padre Burgos Street; and along Finance Road, and Palanca, Arlegui, Fraternal, Vergara, Duque

The RTC said it “takes credence on the testimony of the witness from SEC, who testified that the means employed by K APA is akin to a Ponzi scheme.” The SEC said the court sentence “comes around six years after the SEC found K APA to have enticed the public to invest P10,000 in the guise of a donation, in exchange for a 30 percent monthly return for life dubbed as a blessing.” The SEC issued an advisory against K APA as early as March 2017, warning investors of its Pon zi-l i ke c h a rac ter ist ics. A cease and desist order was later issued on February 14, 2019, followed by an order of revocation of K APA’s certificate of incorporation on April 3, 2019. The SEC said it also sought the help of the Anti-Money Laundering Council to obtain a freeze order from the Court of Appeals on June 4, 2019 to preserve assets linked to KAPA. de Alba, Castillejos, Farnecio, Nepomuceno, Concepcion Aguila, Carcer, Hidalgo, Bilibid Viejo, Gil Puyat, and J.P De Guzman Streets; under the Quezon Bridge; and Villalobos Street en route to Plaza Miranda right outside the church. The 2020 Traslacion had about three million participants and lasted some 16 hours. In 2018 and 2019, the police estimated an average crowd of four million people, with both events lasting for nearly 24 hours. Rex Anthony Naval

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Exhibition sector to sustain growth in 2024, expert says T

Wage hikes in Taiwan, HK seen to benefit thousands of OFWs

By Roderick L. Abad @rodrik_28 Contributor

URTHER global exhibitions growth is projected in 2024 as industry stakeholders keep collaborating w ith local gover nments to build more event venues and usable spaces. According to Pamela D. Pascual, chairman and CEO of World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM) and Board Member of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), exhibits gain from the global economy mainly through the immense amount of trade that they facilitate or promote. “Exhibitions serve all of the vertical industries from manufacturing to construction, food and beverage, packaging, heavy equipment, agriculture, fisheries, and so on,” said the top executive, who was recently elected to the Board of Directors of Union des

Foires Internationales (UFI) for the 2023-2026 term. The global exhibitions sector is a big contributor to worldwide economic growth and cross-border trade, she said. In fact, the UFI noted in the annual report on the Trade Fair Industry in Asia it released in October of this year that all major exhibition markets in Asia, such as China, Japan, India, South Korea, and Hong Kong, which account for more than 80 percent of net space sold in the region, are all expected to match or surpass net space sold in 2023 compared to 2019 levels, and an uptrend is also seen in 2024. This is a welcome development for the regional economy, given the amount of trade receipts and spending that exhibitions can produce. UFI and Oxford Economics—in their analysis of the Global Impact of Exhibitions released last year—found that exhibitions generated $82.3 billion of direct gross domestic product (GDP) and

over 1.4 million direct jobs in 2019. Of these totals, the Asia Pacific region ranked third behind North America and Europe with $17.6 billion in direct GDP, supporting 394,000 direct jobs. “The demand is even much stronger today than it was two years ago. There is currently a lineup of shows available in the market, for instance, that are waiting for spaces to open up at the World Trade Center Metro Manila,” Pascual said. She added that the exhibition market has significantly surged over the years, such that even prior to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, both the public and private sectors in countries like the Philippines realized the urgent need to expand available exhibition spaces so as to meet the demand. With this in mind, Pascual pointed out that government support is needed to allocate land where exhibition venues can be developed and to attract

investors to finance the construction of capital-intensive facilities. “Through our work with UFI, we aim to sustain the growth of the exhibition industry in Asia and to further strengthen the level of professionalism, human capital, and technical expertise in order to serve a larger market,” she added. The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) will hold its 54th annual Global Business Forum (GBF) from March 3 to 6, 2024 in Bengaluru, India. This is a conclave of representatives from member World Trade Center businesses and leaders in business, government, and international organizations. Themed “EPIC: Empowering Progress through Innovation & Collaboration,” the 2024 GBF, hosted by World Trade Center Bengaluru, seeks to highlight the region’s economic potential and center on business and trade opportunities in 12 diverse industries.

Philippines-Kuwait OFW deployment talks hit snag By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

ALKS to resolve the labor row between the Philippines and Kuwait hit a snag following the visit of mid-level delegation from the Department of Migrant Workers and Foreign Affairs early this month. DFA Undersecretar y for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo De Vega told the BusinessMirror that both sides tried to resolve their differences that led to the suspension of deployment of Filipino workers and tourists to Kuwait. “There are still pending issues we need to resolve before we could mutually lift the suspension of deployment of household and other workers,” De Vega said. “First and foremost are issues on the welfare of our kasambahays in Kuwait, such as the issues of shelters or the employers’ holding on to the

passports of their household workers in contravention of our agreement,” he added.

Deployment suspended LAST January, Filipino maid Jullebee Ranara was brutally raped, burned and abandoned in the desert allegedly by the 17-year old son of her employer. The Juvenile Court in Kuwait convicted the young Kuwaiti national with a 15-year imprisonment. Despite the arrest and early resolution of the case, the DMW suspended the deployment of first-time domestic workers to Kuwait as the public clamored for justice. Kuwait then slapped a retaliatory ban of all Filipinos — first-time workers and tourists alike. Last October, at the sidelines of the Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council meeting in Riyadh, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with then

Kuwaiti Crown Prince and now the new emir, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Both leaders have committed to lift the ban and resolved their differences. A month later, a Philippine delegation from DMW and DFA flew to Kuwait during the first week of December for the resumption of labor talks. De Vega was also in Kuwait during the talks for a “consular audit,” but did not sit during the talks.

Shelter for distressed OFWs KUWAIT newspaper Al Jarida Daily quoted a Kuwaiti, Bassam Al-Shammari, a specialist in domestic worker affairs, as saying that the Philippine delegation “insisted ” to keep the shelter for runaway Filipino domestic helpers. “If the Philippine side continues to insist on the operation of these shelters, the negotiations could fail

Go pushes disaster resilience initiatives

ENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go’s Malasakit Team visited Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat on Thursday, December 21, to provide

support to victims still recovering from typhoon “Paeng.” Held at the municipal covered court, the Malasakit Team assisted

324 affected residents. The beneficiaries received grocery packs, shirts, vitamins, snacks, and balls for basketball and volleyball, while some of them received a watch, a cellular phone, and a pair of shoes. Aside from the assistance from Go, qualified beneficiaries also received housing assistance from the National Housing Authority under the agency’s Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EH AP). Go has introduced Senate Bill No. 188, advocating for the creation of a Department of Disaster Resilience. This proposal underscores the need for a dedicated and cohesive approach to managing disasters. He detailed the potential responsibilities of this proposed department, encompassing areas, such as preparedness before disasters, coordination with local government units, and initiatives for recovery after disasters. Go stressed the imperative nature of this initiative, taking into account the diverse array of disasters that frequently impact the country, including floods, typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and fires. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also offered assistance to those in need of medical care. The senator mentioned that there is a Malasakit Center located at Sultan Kudarat Provincial Hospital in Isulan. Under Republic Act No. 11463, which Go principally authored and

and the situation may revert to square one,” Al Shammeri said. Kuwait had earlier protested the setting up of a separate shelter for Filipino runaway workers, saying that this is illegal under international laws. De Vega said Kuwait wanted that the Migrant Workers’ shelter be situated inside the Philippine Embassy and not in another private facility. The DMW, meanwhile, complained that the Kuwait employers continue to keep the passports of Filipino domestic helpers, which was a violation in the employment contract.

New round of talks for 2024 DE VEGA said Manila and Kuwait would continue to find common ground to resolve the diplomatic and labor impasse. “We are hopeful that we can come to a mutually satisfactory solution in future talks to be held,” he added.

sponsored, Malasakit Centers ensure that medical assistance programs are within reach of poor and indigent patients. There are now 159 operational centers across the countries that have already helped more or less ten million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH). Meanwhile, Go also mentioned that he supports the construction of more Super Health Centers nationwide which shall offer basic health services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laborator y: X-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services in Super Health Centers are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) ser v ice; oncolog y centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation centers; and telemedicine. Through the collaborative efforts of fellow lawmakers, local government units, and the DOH, sufficient funds were allocated for 307 Super Health Centers nationwide in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, is tasked with identifying strategic areas for construction. Go, vice chair person of the Senate Committee on Finance, has likew ise supported the concreting of roads in Esperanza, Bagumbayan, Isulan, Lambayong, Lebak, Lutayan, and Tacurong City. Additionally, he supported the construction of multipur pose buildings in Columbio and Isulan, as well as the procurement of ambulance units for other tow ns.

HOUSANDS of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Taiwan and Hong Kong stand to benefit from new wage orders starting this fourth quarter 2023 to January 2024, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). “We thank Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Labor Department respectively for enacting wage legislation that recognizes the work of our OFWs and their contribution to the economic development of their host countries,” said DMW Officer-inCharge Hans Leo J. Cacdac. T he Ta iw a n M i n i st r y of L abor’s (MOL) new wage order mandates a 4.05 percent increase in the monthly minimum salary from NT$ 26,400 (P46,378.70) to NT$27,470 (P48,223.43). The same wage order also increases the minimum hourly wage by NT$7 from NT$168 (P295.14) to NT$183 (P321.48). The Ministry of Labor reports 151, 562 Filipinos are working in Taiwan as of October 2023. Of these 123,768 who work in the manufacturing sector stand to benefit from the new wage order once it takes effect on January 1st. The DMW projects another 17,721 workers in this category to be hired

by the end of the year. Meanwhile, OFWs working as foreign domestic helpers (FDH) or household service workers (HSW) in Hong Kong will benefit from similar wage legislation set by Hong Kong’s Labor department. OFWs working as FDH will receive a minimum allowable wage (MAW) of HK$4,870 or P38,010.35. This represents a HK$140 increase from the previous rate of HK$4,730 or P36,917.65. The Hong Kong wage order also mandates an adjustment in the allowable food allowance for FDHs raising it to HK$1,236 or P9,649.98 from the previous rate of HK$1,196 or P9,334.78. These wage increases in Hong Kong shall be applicable only to FDH contracts signed on or after September 30, 2023. The Migrant Workers Office in Hong Kong (MWO-HK) reports that as of August 2023, there are 196,364 OFWs working as HSWs or FDHs in Hong Kong. MWO-HK estimates some 40,000 HSWs representing new hires and those with renewed contracts will directly benefit from the new wage legislation. Additionally, by January 2024, MWO-HK estimates there will be around 205,000 Filipino HSWs working in Hong Kong.

Rep. Villafuerte cites ‘exemptions’ in House-approved right-sizing bill By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

SENIOR lawmaker said that teachers, health-care professionals, soldiers, and other uniformed personnel within state agencies are exempt from the Houseapproved plan aimed at right-sizing the bureaucracy and reducing unnecessary expenses. Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has endorsed this plan to enhance the skills of government workers and ensure a more seamless and responsive program and service delivery to the public. Villafuerte emphasized this exemption as he urged senators to act on their corresponding measure when the 19th Congress reconvenes on January 22 after its five-week yearend break. This rightsizing proposal shall be carried out over a three-year period and provides for retirement benefits and separation incentives for wouldbe affected workers, said Villafuerte, who is president of the National Unity Party (NUP) and one of the authors of this substitute bill. House Bill (HB) 7240, or “The National Government Rightsizing Act,” makes it optional for the Congress, Judiciary, state universities and colleges (SUC), Office of the Ombudsman, other Constitutional Commissions, and local government units (LGU) to implement their own rightsizing plans, Villafuerte said. Under HB 7240, rightsizing is also optional for state-run firms under the Governance Commission for Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations, or GOCCs (GCG), he added. This substitute bill was a consolidated version of 16 measures on government rightsizing or streamlining, including HB 4015, which Villafuerte had authored with fellow CamSur Reps. Miguel Luis Villafuerte and Tsuyoshi Anthony Horibata and the Bicol Saro party-list. Villafuerte highlighted the significant number of government workers, around 1.7 million according to 2022 data from the Civil Service Commission (CSC), spread across 187 government agencies and GOCCs with overlapping or redundant functions. Stressing the importance of optimizing the state’s financial resources, the lawmaker stated that rightsizing would contribute to the appropriate utilization of the national budget, where almost 30 percent is allocated to personnel services annually. The bill, aligned with Section 27, Article II of the 1987 Constitution, seeks to maintain honesty and integrity in public service while taking measures against graft and corruption.

Villafuerte explained that the legislation aims to rationalize operations, streamline positions, and empower the President to abolish, create, and transfer offices within the national government. To oversee the implementation of the streamlining plan, the bill proposes the creation of a Committee on Rightsizing the National Government, chaired by the Executive Secretary, with the Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) as co-chairperson and members including the DirectorGeneral of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda), CSC chairperson, and Director-General of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA). President Marcos, in his first State of the Nation Address (SONA), endorsed the National Government Rightsizing Program (NGRP) to enhance the government’s institutional capacity, optimize state resources, and improve service delivery. The DBM praised the House’s approval of HB 7240, calling it a timely and relevant measure for realizing President Marcos’ vision of a lean, efficient, and responsive government workforce. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman estimated that reducing the government workforce by 5 percent would save P14.8 billion, funds that could be allocated to priority projects. The bill covers all national government agencies, while LGUs, the Legislature, Judiciary, Constitutional Offices, and SUCs may also rightsize their offices within their authorized appropriations. Certain positions are excluded from streamlining, including teaching positions in schools, medical and allied-medical roles in hospitals, and military and uniformed personnel in specific government departments. The bill mandates the use of digitalization and e-governance to optimize government roles and provide efficient services. Section 11 of the bill requires agency heads to submit detailed organizational structures and staffing patterns to the DBM within 90 days of the proposed executive issuances’ approval by the President. Personnel affected by the NGRP are entitled to retirement benefits and separation incentives, with the option to retire or be placed in a manpower pool for retooling and redeployment. The bill emphasizes that those reemployed within the prohibited period must refund incentives received. Initial implementation costs will be sourced from applicable appropriation items under the current General Appropriations Act.

News BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph | Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

DOH reports decline in Chikungunya cases By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

EPARTMENT of Health (DOH) reported Wednesday the decline of Chikungunya cases recorded in the Philippines. Based on the most recent data as of December 16, 2023, only 57 cases were reported, a 51 percent decrease from the 116 cases reported two weeks prior. There have been a total of 2,928 Chikungunya cases reported, in the recent 3 to 4 weeks (November 19 to December 2, 2023).

‘Zero death’

BA SED on f ive-year d ata, Chikungunya cases usually increase during the rainy season, from June to September. This year, the trend is similar with cases currently at a downtrend after the higher numbers reported during the rainy season. Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes—including Aedes aegypti (which may also spread dengue) and aedes albopictus.

Its sy mptoms inc lude the following: fever, joint pain (back, ankle, knee, wrist), joint swelling, rashes, headache, body aches, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms appear 3 to 7 days after a mosquito carrying the virus bites the patient. Chikungunya, as well as dengue, can be prevented through the 5S Strategy:  Search and destroy mosquito nests such as old tires, clogged drains, and water containers;  Self-protection measures, such as wearing long sleeves and using mosquito repellant;  Seek early consultation with a doctor if you have symptoms;  Support fogging in hotspot areas; and  Sustain hydration or drinking enough clean water. “While there is no specific medicine for Chikungunya itself, a doctor can prescribe the patient medicines to reduce pain and inflammation,” the DOH said. Bathing with lukewarm water can also help someone with a fever, according to the DOH.

PBBM names 8 PNP camps, real properties after former policemen By Patrick V. Miguel

R ESIDEN T Ferd ina nd R. Marcos Jr. has named and renamed about eight Philippine National Police (PNP) camps and real properties after former police officers through Proclamation Nos. 429 and 430. Marcos stressed “it is fitting to give honor” to former police officers who have shown exemplary service and dedication in serving the provinces and municipalities where they were assigned. “It is fitting to give honor to former ser v icemen who have shown patriotism, courage, and dedication in serving the country and the provinces to which they are assigned, and distinguished themselves in their service to the nation by way of naming and renaming PNP facilities in their honor,” said Marcos. The President named the donated lot to the PNP in Pasacao, Camarines Sur as Camp Brigadier General Ludovico Padilla Arejola; the donated lot to the Police Regional Office (PRO) 5 as Camp Captain Salvador Jaucian del Rosaro Sr;

and the Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office as Camp Colonel Juan Querubin Miranda. The President also named the 50th Maneuver Company Regional Mobile Force Battalion 5 as Camp Police Max Jim Ramirez Tria, while he renamed the Camp Efigenio C Navarro, PRO MIMAROPA Headquarters as Camp Brigadier General Efigenio C. Navarro. In a separate issuance, Proclamation No. 430, the PRO 12 in General Santos City was renamed Camp General Paulino T. Santos, and the Biliran Police Provincial Office as Camp Private Andres P. Dadizon, PRO 8, respectively. T he President also named Camarines Sur 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company Headquarters as Camp 2LT Carlos Rafael Paz Imperial, PRO 5. In naming and renaming PNP camps and properties, President Marcos cited Section 2 of the Republic Act No. 10086, or the Strengthening People’s Nationalism through Philippine History Act, wh ic h st re ng t he n s p e ople’s nationalism, love of country and respect for its heroes and pride for people’s accomplishments.

Naia employee caught escorting 3 Dubai-bound ‘trafficking’ victims

HE Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Wednesday stressed that airport immigration areas are strictly off-limits to unauthorized personnel. BICommissionerNormanTansingco issued the warning after immigration officers intercepted three suspected human trafficking victims bound for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) Terminal 3 on December 22. An airport employee escorted the three to the immigration counters. “ I m m i g r at i o n s u p e r v i s o r s promptly intervened, signaling that such actions were unauthorized and against protocol,” Tansingco said. I n a te le v i s ion broadc a st int erview, BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said they have forwarded the case to the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) for further investigation and filing of appropriate charges. “We don’t have the details about the employee yet but we have forwarded the case to the IACAT. Since the National Bureau of Investigation [NBI] is part of the IACAT, the NBI will investigate this matter to know who

this individual is, why is he escorting trafficking victims, whether this already happened before and if there is a business in it,” she added. Sandoval said the employee is likely a part of a human trafficking syndicate. “It could be. Because recruiting an individual to work abroad is a big process. You would have to have connections here and abroad. This is why we want incidents like this to be thoroughly investigated. We’re very thankful that airport authorities have expressed their intent to look into this matter,” she added. Tansingco said the passengers initially posed as vacationing friends from General Santos City. BI officers subjected the three to a secondary inspection and it was revealed that they did not know each other’s names and lacked return tickets to General Santos. The victims are transiting in Thailand going to UAE and confessed to being recruited as household service workers in Dubai through Facebook, with no knowledge of their transit arrangements to the host country. PNA

Thursday, December 28, 2023

NSC exec says PHL welcomes China’s call for dialogue but...

By Rex Anthony Naval

HE Philippines welcomes China’s call for dialogue to address issues in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) but it must first stop its bullying and other aggressive actions for the talks to prosper, a ranking National Security Council (NSC) official said on Monday.

“We welcome China’s offer of dialogue, negotiation and consultation but for it to prosper China must immediately stop its bullying, aggressive actions, and illegal moves in the WPS, which seriously undermines regional peace and security,” NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said in a statement. China earlier said that its “door of dialogue” remains open with the Philippines but it will continue to protect its interests. “Dialogue can only succeed in an atmosphere of mutual respect and sincerity between two sovereign nations. The Philippines is ready to reciprocate provided the bullying, harassment, and aggressive actions are ended immediately,” Malaya said.

He added that China’s illegal exercise of maritime law enforcement powers, interference with Philippine vessels, harassment and intimidation of Filipino fisherfolk infringes upon the Philippines’ sovereignty and jurisdiction in the WPS. Malaya said such actions are “clear violations of international law.” “The root of all these tensions is its non-adherence to international law, UNCLOS, and the 2016 Arbitral Award. As the world has seen, it is not the Philippines that has been engaged in provocations, bullying and aggressive actions in the WPS. In fact, the Philippines has been very restrained and responsible but the same cannot be said of China,” he added.

AFP-EastMinCom probes truck ramming incident in Davao City

AVAO CI T Y—T he A r med Forces of the PhilippinesEastern Mindanao Command ( A F P - E a s t M i n C o m) ord e re d a thorough investigation into the ramming of its personnel truck into a public market here on Christmas Eve that killed two market-goers and injured three others. Lt. Gen. Greg T. Almerol, commander of EastMinCom directed the Joint Task Force (JTF) Haribon to instruct its special unit here, the Task Force Davao, to probe the incident at the Bangkerohan Market. A KM450 personnel truck rammed into the packed market area at 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, December 24. Killed were Jamie Lopez Cole, 63 and Rocel Luna Haspe, 34, who was waiting for a ride when the truck drove into their direction.

A 44-year-old suspect identified as a certain Crenenandy Cadiente was arrested. Two motorcycles and a parked car were damaged in the incident. Initial police reports said the Army truck unloaded a group of soldiers in the market area for security duties and it was parked temporarily along Magallanes Street by its driver, Private First Class Patrick Saguin Trumata, for personal necessity. The investigation would delve into the circumstance why Cadiente, a civilian, was able to board and drove the vehicle that eventually rammed into the crowd. The injured were brought to the Southern Philippines Medical Center for treatment, while Cadiente was sent for mental health assessment. Almerol assured the public and the

SC affirms conviction of 2 Manila cops in extort try

HE Supreme Court (SC) has upheld t he conv iction of two police officers who were sentenced to up to eight years in jail for robbery through extortion. In a statement Wednesday, the tribunal said its Second Division denied the petitions for review filed by then Police Officer 2 (PO2) Ireneo Sosas Jr. and Senior Police Officer 3 (SPO3) Ariel Salvador. “Law enforcement officers who abuse their authority to intimidate persons under their custody for money are guilty of robbery by extortion,” the Court said. The charges against the two had been originally filed by the Office of the Deputy Ombudsman for the Military and Other Law Enforcement Offices following a complaint from Janith Arbuez, a salesperson at a used mobile phones shop inside the Isetann Mall in Recto, Manila. She alleged that on November 10, 2010, Sosas escorted her from the shop to the mall’s administrative office to report her sale of stolen items. Sosas then brought her to the police station where she was led to a room with Salvador. Sosas then proposed that no criminal complaint for violation of the Anti-Fencing Law would be charged against Arbuez if she would give the officers P20,000. When Arbuez negotiated for a lower

amount, Sosas agreed on the condition they become “sweethearts.” Arbuez refused and called her sister-in-law to bring the money to the station. After 18 hours in detention, Arbuez was released the next day following Sosas’ receipt of the money. Sosas also stated that a complaint will no longer be filed against Arbuez. The SC said as police officers, the two were tasked to “implement the law.” “Hence, they could not demand and eventually receive any amount from private persons as a consideration for them not to pursue the case against them. Under such circumstances, the eventual receipt of the money by [PO2 Sosas and SPO3 Salvador] makes the taking unlawful,” the court said. “They are law enforcement agents, while Arbuez is an ordinary citizen. The incident transpired at the police station when Arbuez was already placed under their custody. Given these circumstances, the threats of continued deprivation of liberty, and the possibility of criminal prosecution, it is easy to conclude that [PO2 Sosas and SPO3 Salvador] intimidated Arbuez into giving them the money. They are, therefore, guilty of robbery,” it added. Aside from imprisonment, the police officers were also ordered to pay Arbuez P20,000 as actual damages. PNA

families of the victims for a speedy probe and promised to provide appropriate action. “While this incident is isolated, it is unfortunate that it happened while we are preparing for a

festive celebration of Christmas. We extend our condolences to families of the victims. Be assured that we will not rest until you get the justice deserved by your loved ones,” he said. Manuel T. Cayon

BusinessMirror

Thursday, December 28, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

ACCENTURE, INC. 7f Robinsons Cybergate Tower 1, Pioneer St., Barangka Ilaya, City Of Mandaluyong

GHOSH, ROHON Mc Delivery Senior Manager

Brief Job Description: Due diligence, solution design & process re engineering across f& a towers (ptp, otc and rtr) and enabling client to realize lower cost per transaction, consistent output quality, reduced turnaround times with cutting-edge & futuristic robotic/ai based applications. E2e value discovery for procurement tower for a gbs client across multiple countries. Designing intelligent automation center of excellence. Process design & transition support.

Basic Qualification: Due diligence, solution design & process re engineering across f& a towers (ptp, otc and rtr) and enabling client to realize lower cost per transaction, consistent output quality, reduced turnaround times with cutting-edge & futuristic robotic/ai based applications. E2e value discovery for procurement tower for a gbs client across multiple countries. Designing intelligent automation center of excellence. Process design & transition support.

YANG, XIAOJIAN Supply Chain Manager 10.

HE, LU AHS Specialist - Cn

11.

Brief Job Description: Preserves order and may act to enforce regulations.

ROKA, JHAKINDRA BAHADUR Bilingual Security Officer Brief Job Description: Preserves order and may act to enforce regulations.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

12.

Brief Job Description: A Procurement Specialist facilitates purchases from outside suppliers to keep a business running. Their primary responsibilities include researching key suppliers, negotiating purchase agreements, and ensuring all products and materials meet company standards.

HUANG, JIALIANG Procurement Specialist

LIN, JINZONG Procurement Specialist

LIN, NALI Procurement Specialist

QIU, CAIBAO Procurement Specialist

Brief Job Description: A procurement specialist facilitates purchases from outside suppliers to keep a business running. Their primary responsibilities include researching key suppliers, negotiating purchase agreements, and ensuring all products and materials meet company standards.

Basic Qualification: Strong verbal and written communication skills. The ability to plan, delegate and evaluate progress toward goals is necessary for managing these projects. Must have strong problem-solving skills.

13.

14.

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

15.

Brief Job Description: Supply Chain Managers are responsible for overseeing and managing company’s overall supply chain and logistics strategy and operations in order to maximize the process efficiency and productivity.

16.

No.

20.

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

Basic Qualification: Holder of a Master’s in Business Administration. With previous work experience in conducting in-person verifications. Proficient in ChineseMandarin language.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for making sure that products that are released and meet regulatory standards to help the company avoid legal trouble. Facilitate the process development initiatives to achieve the company’s business goals.

21.

CHEN, SHUHAO Project Coordinator 22.

23.

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

17.

Brief Job Description: Conducting market research to establish customer trends and habits.

24.

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

18.

Brief Job Description: Develop computer software using coding languages like HTML, JavaScript, etc., and Troubleshoot software problems.

BANG KIEM LIAT Operations Analyst 25.

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

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree with experience in business management, finance computer software, marketing sales, or related field. fluent in both written and verbal English, Mandarin, Korean language fluent Korean language communication skills is a plus.

Brief Job Description: Provide excellent support to various customers visa chat, email, and phone; Forward and escalate technical issues, resolve more complicated demanding issues with the team leader/manager.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree with experience in business management, finance computer software, marketing sales or related field. Fluent in both written and verbal English, Chinese, and Mandarin language fluent in Korean language is a plus. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

C’EST LA VIE EVENT MANAGEMENT INC. 230, Narra Street, Marikina Heights, City Of Marikina

Basic Qualification: Must be willing to attend meeting, sales events and trainings to keep abreast of the latest developments; Must be willing to work on field.

Basic Qualification: Must be willing to attend meeting, sales events and trainings to keep abreast of the latest developments; Must be willing to work on field. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Must be willing to attend meeting, sales events and trainings to keep abreast of the latest developments; Must be willing to work on field. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Must be willing to attend meeting, sales events and trainings to keep abreast of the latest developments; Must be willing to work on field. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Provide data analytics and data management job in actual business operation.

Basic Qualification: Has the extensive experience in data analytics and data management; is proficient and able to communicate in Mandarin or any Chinese language.

CEBGO, INC. Cebu Pacific Bldg., Domestic Road St., Barangay 191, Pasay City

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in mandarin, both oral and written.

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

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

LEE, JOOHWA Pilot

Basic Qualification: Licensed pilot.

Brief Job Description: Operates an ATR aircraft for commercial flight.

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

PAMUNGKAS ATMA SAPUTRA Pilot 27.

28.

Brief Job Description: Operates an ATR aircraft for commercial flight.

Basic Qualification: Licensed pilot. Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

SOMDAVANH, SOMSAVANH Pilot

Basic Qualification: Licensed pilot.

Brief Job Description: Operates an ATR aircraft for commercial flight.

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

CHINA HARBOUR ENGINEERING COMPANY 5/f Section E Ramon Magsaysay Center, 1680 Roxas Blvd., 076, Barangay 699, Malate, City Of Manila

ZHANG, WEI Mandarin Dredger Navigation Controller

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

MA, LIANGLIANG Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: The primary function of a project coordinator is to make sure projects run smoothly. Coordinating project schedules, resources, equipment and information.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With previous supervisory experience in a related industry.

Basic Qualification: Must be willing to attend meeting, sales events and trainings to keep abreast of the latest developments; Must be willing to work on field.

CASPO INCORPORATED 43/f, 45/f, 49/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

BRIGHT LUME IT SOLUTIONS INC. Unit 202 Erisha Condominium, 1142 P Ocampo Street, Barangay 757, Santa Ana, City Of Manila

WEI, YI Chinese Speaking Computer Programmer

Brief Job Description: The primary function of a Project Coordinator is to make sure projects run smoothly. Coordinating project schedules, resources, equipment and information.

HONG, YONGQIANG Project Coordinator

26.

QUACH THI QUE Marketing Specialist

Brief Job Description: The primary function of a project coordinator is to make sure projects run smoothly. Coordinating project schedules, resources, equipment and information.

DONG, XIAOJUN Project Coordinator

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

Brief Job Description: The primary function of a project coordinator is to make sure projects run smoothly. Coordinating project schedules, resources, equipment and information.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

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

Brief Job Description: The primary function of a project coordinator is to make sure projects run smoothly. Coordinating project schedules, resources, equipment and information.

CHEN, JIAJUN Project Coordinator

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proactive documentation of operational procedures, required to tackle known related risk.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION CAO, DAN Project Coordinator

BLUE-CHIP CENTRAL INC. 8/f Tower 6789, 6789 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries.

AHMED, ARIF Head of Operations

19. XU, SHENGJIA Supply Chain Manager

Basic Qualification: Strong organizational and management skills including problemsolving; Representational skills; Excellent verbal and written skills. Selfmotivated and creative.

BISMILLA FASHION TRADERS CORP. Unit No. Pas. J-15, Bac Terminal Plaza 1 Bldg., Taft Ave. Ext. St., Barangay 78, Pasay City

Basic Qualification: Strong organizational and management skills including problemsolving; Representational skills; Excellent verbal and written skills. Selfmotivated and creative.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires. SHEN, WEI-HAO a.k.a. SHEN, WEI-CHUNG Taiwanese Customer Service

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires. HAN, YINGHAO Chinese Customer Service Representative

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

Brief Job Description: Communicates effectively via email and/or telephone; Takes appropriate action to identify and help minimize the risk posed by fraud patterns and trends.

CHEN, ZHENGHUA Chinese Customer Service Representative

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

AM-PRO IMPORTS MARKETING CORP. 16e Residenza Suites, 429 Shaw Blvd., Addition Hills, City Of Mandaluyong

HONG, QINGLIN Procurement Specialist

Brief Job Description: Communicates effectively with buyers, merchants and internal customers. Take appropriate action to identify and help minimize the risk posed by fraud patterns and trends. Consistently achieves weekly productivity and quality standards. Participate in ad hoc projects/assignments as necessary. NGUYEN NHAT XUAN PHUONG Invest Spc - Rco [vnm]

ACSTREAM MANAGEMENT INC. 9/f Sterling Centre, 131 Dela Rosa Cor. Ormaza Sts., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin language.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

AMAZON OPERATION SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. B21 Three E-com Moa Complex, Harbour Drive Cor. Bay Shore, Brgy. 076, Pasay City

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

LAMA, BHIM BAHADUR Bilingual Security Officer

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

29.

Brief Job Description: The mandarin dredger navigation controller will be a strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as mandarin dredger navigation controller, familiarity, knowledge and awareness on equipment use by company, demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

LIU, JIANHUA Mandarin Quality Inspector 30.

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

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin quality inspector, familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Equipment use by company, demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

CHANG, GUICHENG Mandarin Reclamation Dredger Operator 31.

Brief Job Description: The mandarin reclamation dredger operator will be a strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Proven experience as mandarin reclamation dredger operator, familiarity, knowledge and awareness on equipment use by company, demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

VU NGOC HUNG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 43.

Brief Job Description: liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

CHEN, DEFU Mandarin Reclamation Dredger Operator 32.

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

WANG, WENHE Mandarin Reclamation Dredger Operator 33.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as mandarin reclamation dredger operator, familiarity, knowledge and awareness on equipment use by company, demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

CAO, SHIMIN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 44.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

CHAN KIEN MUN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 45.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

CHEN, YATING Chinese Speaking Program Designer 46.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

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

LI, JINHUA Mandarin Reclamation Quality Controller 34.

Brief Job Description: The mandarin reclamation quality controller will be a strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Reclamation quality controller, familiarity, knowledge and awareness on Equipment use by company, demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

HAN, XIAOLI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 47.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

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

XI, WENHUA Mandarin Reclamation Quality Controller 35.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as mandarin reclamation quality controller, familiarity, knowledge and awareness on equipment use by company, demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

HE, HAOHUI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 48.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

HE, JUN Chinese Speaking Program Designer

CRONYX INC. 6-12, 15-19/f Royal Peak Tower A, 485 Quirino Avenue, Tambo, City Of Parañaque 49. SHANIE LAU SHU WEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 36.

Brief Job Description: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written

37.

Brief Job Description: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

38.

Brief Job Description: liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials. keeping up to date with design and software trends. Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

HOANG VAN TIEN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 39.

Brief Job Description: liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

52.

40.

Brief Job Description: Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

PHUNG QUOC VINH Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 41.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

QIN, GUANGFEI Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 42.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written.

Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials. keeping up to date with design and software trends. Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

PHAM, NGOC PHUONG QUYNH Chinese Speaking Program Designer 56.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials, keeping up to date with design and software trends and perform retouching and manipulation of images.

LIN, JINZE Chinese Speaking Program Designer 53.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

WAN, CHUAN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 57.

54.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written

WANG, YONGQIANG Chinese Speaking Program Designer 58.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

WANG, ZERUI Chinese Speaking Program Designer

59.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

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

LIU, XIXUN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 55.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials, keeping up to date with design and software trends and perform retouching and manipulation of images

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components. Document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions. Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

WANG, ZHENGBING Chinese Speaking Program Designer 60.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

XING, ZHIHUA Chinese Speaking Program Designer 61.

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

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

XU, RUYUN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 62.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

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

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

YANG, JUN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 63.

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

YE, GENDONG Chinese Speaking Program Designer

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

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials, keeping up to date with design and software trends and perform retouching and manipulation of images

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

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials, keeping up to date with design and software trends and perform retouching and manipulation of images.

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

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

64.

LIU, WEIDONG Chinese Speaking Program Designer

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

No.

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

NGUYEN VAN HOANG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

KHIN MAUNG DWE Chinese Speaking Program Designer

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials. keeping up to date with design and software trends. Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

KENNY PANG ZHENG YAO Chinese Speaking Program Designer 51.

CAI, XIANQUAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

HE, XING Chinese Speaking Program Designer

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 50.

VOON YEN CHIN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as mandarin reclamation dredger operator, familiarity, knowledge and awareness on equipment use by company, demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan.

Thursday, December 28, 2023

YE, ZIXUAN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 65.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

A6 A8

BusinessMirror

Thursday, December 28, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ZHANG, YAJUN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 66.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

LIU, WEI Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 78.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

SHEN, JINLIN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 79.

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

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

D’SUPREME DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION U-g 17/f The Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati CHANTEM, SUDAPORN Mandarin Finance Supervisor

67.

Brief Job Description: Supervise financial and accounting processes and ensure adherence to the company laws. Prepare and distribute budget reports and financial statements to management in a timely fashion. Manage account payables and receivable activities in a timely manner.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With proven working experience in digital marketing, particularly within the industry. With excellent communication skills.

68.

Brief Job Description: Overseeing the training of Team Football Boys Aspirants B, following schedule approved by the Sports Development Office (SDO). Updating the SDO Head for revisions of the training program, the official lists of athletes, the grades of the athletes every quarter, training schedules, profess reports and other pertinent data concerning the team.

80.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

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

DE LA SALLE-SANTIAGO ZOBEL SCHOOL, INC. University Ave., Ayala Alabang Village, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa

AYI, NII ARYEE Head Coach, Football Boys Aspirants B

THANT ZIN HLAING Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: Holder of a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education. With at least 10 years of football experience. FIFA Grassroots certified. Sports Injury Prevention and Management Training certified. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

VICHADIYA Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 81.

Brief Job Description: liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

69.

70.

71.

Brief Job Description: Prepare airline and custom documentation.

JIANG, CHEN Chinese Cargo Office Agent Brief Job Description: Prepare airline and custom documentation.

JIANG, QINGLI Chinese Cargo Office Agent Brief Job Description: Prepare airline and custom documentation.

KUAN CHEE HORNG Chinese Speaking Hr Associate 82.

Brief Job Description: Contacting candidate references and verifying education listings.

72.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Chinese documentation. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

LIU, TE-CHIANG Chinese Speaking HR Associate 83.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Chinese documentation.

73.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

LOO KAR JUN Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 74.

Brief Job Description: Conducting research and identifying potential client / End to end partner management from opening to closing sales.

FRANCESCA DWI AYU Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 75.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

Brief Job Description: Managing HR records including, résumés, applicant logs, and employee forms.

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

76.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

SIN, TIENGKIMLEAN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 77.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

91.

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials. keeping up to date with design and software trends. Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

ZENG, MIN Marketing and Sales Agent 92.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Chinese documentation.

SAI SENG PHA Chinese Speaking HR Associate 84.

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

Brief Job Description: Contacting candidate references and verifying education listings.

Basic Qualification: End to end partner management from opening to closing sales. Conducting market research and identifying potential clients. Collating and maintaining client information.

CHEN, BO Chinese Speaking Program Designer

YE, YAWEI Chinese Human Resource Business Partner

93.

85.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

NGUYEN THI THU THUY Chinese Speaking Program Designer 86.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information. Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing. Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

Brief Job Description: Document all aspects of software for ongoing maintenance and revisions.

HUANG, FEI Chinese Operation Officer

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

WANG, XIN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 87.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

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

FU, JIN Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

JIANG, JUNJIE Chinese Speaking Sales Marketing Specialist 96.

Brief Job Description: Supporting the marketing team with marketing activities by demonstrating expertise in various areas, including optimization, advertising, social media, direct marketing, and event planning. LU, JUNYU Chinese Speaking Sales Marketing Specialist

97.

Brief Job Description: Building and maintaining relationships with new and existing customers through prospecting and networking.

HUANG, ZENQIANG Assistant to Hub Manager 98.

CHEN, SONGQING Marketing and Sales Agent 88.

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

99.

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

Brief Job Description: Provide administrative support to the hub manager in organizing and coordinating day-to-day activities.

LI, ZHONGHUA Marketing and Sales Agent 89.

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

100.

REN, XINZHENG Marketing and Sales Agent 90.

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

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

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Oversee the daily operations of the office, ensuring a well-organized and efficient working environment.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, or equivalent work experience. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

GAMMA INTERACTIVE INC. 21/f Alphaland Makati Place, 7232 Ayala Ave. Cor. Malugay St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

VO TRAN PHUONG THIEN Customer Service Vietnamese Speaking 101.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can contributes information, ideas, and research to help develop marketing strategies; can help to detail, design, and implement marketing plans for each product or service being offered.

Brief Job Description: Provide administrative support to the hub manager in organizing and coordinating day-to-day activities.

LI, YONGCHAO General Affairs Deputy Manager

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication.

FLASH EXPRESS SOFTWARE (PH) CO., LTD. INC. 11/f Cybersigma, Lawton Ave., West Mckinley, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

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

EASTERN GOLD CORPORATION 503, Nueva St., Barangay 289, Binondo, City Of Manila

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

EMPERIAL MERCHANDISE CORP. 292-c, Pascual Casal St., Barangay 646, San Miguel, City Of Manila

LIU, YICONG Assistant to Hub Manager

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

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

Brief Job Description: Daily management of sales, completing sales targets, and maintaining sales, sales and inventory of operator channels. Complete delivery management and store retail management.

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing in Chinese and English. Data analysis ability. Proficiency in Microsoft office.

EMN INTEGRA INC. Unit G & H 13th Floor Strata 100 Bldg., F. Ortigas Jr. Road Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Proven working experience in the Human Resources Field (Recruitment and Selection, Timekeeping/ Payroll, Employee Relations, Training and Development, Performance Management) Strategic thinking, creative problem solving, strong attention to detail, and drive to achieve results.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English language. Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration Management or equivalent. Should have at least 3-5 years’ experience in Business Administration and Human Resources or any other related filed. With an excellent network of connection in mobile Industry. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

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

EMERALD WIRELESS TECH INC. 28th/f Arthaland Century Pacific Tower, E-square Information Technology Park, 25th St. Cor 5th Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Basic Qualification: Communicating with potential job candidates. Contacting candidate references and verifying education listings. Issuing employment contracts and verifying completion. Issuing new employees with enrollment documents.

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

YU, SHUNPING Marketing and Sales Agent

95.

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

JIMMY HO SIONG LUNG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

No.

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

LIU, FEIFEI Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

94.

DYNAMIC STUDIO TECHNOLOGY INC. 5th To 8th/f & 10th/f Platinum Tower Building, Aseana Ave. Cor. Fuentes Street, Baclaran, City Of Parañaque

LI, YANQING Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

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

DEXIN INTERNATIONAL IMPORT AND EXPORT CORP. 534, Tomas Mapua St., Barangay 298, Santa Cruz, City Of Manila HE, SHUMEI Chinese Cargo Office Agent

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Brief Job Description: Employee shall perform duties such as reports on a daily operations of call center activities

NGUYEN NU YEN VY Learning & Development Vietnamese Speaking 102.

Brief Job Description: Identify the current and future skills requirements of an organization and create flexible learning interventions (through digital and other means) to meet the diverse needs of the workforce.

Basic Qualification: 21 years old and above with customer service experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Bachelor degree, with strong previous skills in the training administration and strong knowledge of training processes and procedures. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION GAUTAM, VARUN Marketing Executive Indian Speaking

103.

Brief Job Description: Manages the execution of different marketing strategies for a company and develops efficient and intuitive marketing strategies. TRAN THI THU THAO Marketing Executive Vietnamese Speaking

104.

Brief Job Description: Manages the execution of different marketing strategies for a company and develops efficient and intuitive marketing strategies.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

Basic Qualification: 21 years old and above with Marketing executive experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

HU, HONGYU Mandarin Contract Administrator 119.

Basic Qualification: 21 years old and above with Marketing executive experience.

120. GAO SHOU TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT, INC. 52/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

ZENG, DI Chinese Technical Support Representative 105.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customers by answering product and service questions; suggesting information about other products and services.

121.

GIGA INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT INC. 31/f Pbcom Tower 6795 Ayala Ave., Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

106.

107.

108.

AHMAD RAFIYUDIN Indonesian Account Specialist Brief Job Description: Accounting hardware and software installations.

ARDY WIRANATA CHANDRA Indonesian Account Specialist Brief Job Description: Accounting hardware and software installations.

MAULUTFI WIDYA NASTITY Indonesian Account Specialist Brief Job Description: Accounting hardware and software installations.

MUHAMMAD ANTHONI Indonesian Financial System Manager 109.

Brief Job Description: Provides ends user security management for citywide finance.

VELLIX KURNIAWAN MANALU Indonesian Financial Sytem Manager 110.

111.

112.

113.

114.

115.

Brief Job Description: Provides ends user security management for citywide finance.

MUHAMAD FAISAL GUNAWAN Indonesian It Support Specialist Brief Job Description: Maintaining hardware and software installations.

SOLIHIN SONY ABADI Indonesian It Support Specialist Brief Job Description: Maintaining hardware and software installations.

MALVINA JOCELYN Indonesian Quality Control Brief Job Description: Controlling quality hardware and software.

MARIANA SISILIA SASUE Indonesian Quality Control Brief Job Description: Controlling quality hardware and software.

SULAIMAN ZUHRI Indonesian Quality Control Brief Job Description: Controlling hardware and software installations.

ASMI WULANDARI Indonesian Retention Specialist 116.

Brief Job Description: Developing retention strategies based on customer feedback.

DENADA LEVINKI GOSAL Indonesian Retention Specialist 117.

Brief Job Description: Developing retention strategies based on customer feedback.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledge of compels system project management. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledge of compels system project management. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries.

118.

Brief Job Description: Creation and maintenance of Customer Data.

BASTAS, EREN Cost Control Manager 123.

Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

124.

Basic Qualification: Communicating with customers and sales representative. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Brief Job Description: Good teamwork skills and good communication skills and strategies.

125.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Marketing Officer is responsible for managing marketing and mainly focused on the practical application and management of an organization’s marketing operations. For marketing officer to be efficient and effective in performing their functions, they should have excellent communication and analytical skills. ZHANG, XIAOXIAO Mandarin Marketing Officer

126.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Marketing Officer is responsible for managing marketing and mainly focused on the practical application and management of an organization’s marketing operations.

LY BAO LONG Chinese Speaking Admin Associate 131.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin marketing manager, excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.

132.

Brief Job Description: Implements design, development, validation and support activities in the line with architecture requirements.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin site supervisor, excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.

NGO VAN NHAT Chinese Speaking Admin Associate 133.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin structural maintenance supervisor, excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.

134.

128.

LE THI THU Chinese Speaking Admin Associate 129.

Brief Job Description: Assist with drafting business plans, sales, pitches, presentations, reference material and other documents as required.

Basic Qualification: Spanish Speaking. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

LE TUNG LAM Chinese Speaking Admin Associate 130.

Brief Job Description: Provides administrative support to ensure efficient operation of sales training department.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

WANG, LIYOU Chinese Speaking Admin Associate 135.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 10 years of work experience in a related field.

Brief Job Description: Provides administrative support to ensure efficient operation of sales training department.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 ZHANG, BING Chinese Speaking Admin Associate 136.

Basic Qualification: College graduate, 1-year experience in customer service.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for providing overall administrative support to the team he/ she will be assigned to Chinese team.

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

DANG THI HIEN Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 137.

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Marketing Officer. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Basic Qualification: Excellent written and verbal communication skills. With strong organization and project management skills.

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

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

TRAN ANH TUAN Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

TRINH TIEN DAT Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 140.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

BUI KHAC NAM Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 141.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

BUZILO, KRISTINA Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 142.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

CHE THONG YEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 143.

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

NGUYEN TUAN VU Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 138.

Basic Qualification: Graduate in Bachelor of Engineering degree. Overall 5+ years of experience with 2 years’ relevant experience. Hands on experience in RPA (Automation anywhere/ Blue Prism/UiPath) or Phyton implementation (min. 1 year).

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Associate/Supervisor shall provide uncompromising quality support to improve the operation of the Admin Team. Performs administrative duties related to the operations of the human resource and business services office the Chinese team. Provides administrative support to ensure efficient operation of Sales Training Department. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

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

Brief Job Description: Responsible for providing overall administrative support to the team he/ she will be assigned to Chinese team.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

INFOVINE INC. 8th, 9th, 10th/f Aspire Corporate Plaza Bldg., Macapagal Blvd. St., Zone 10, Barangay 76, Pasay City 9/f Y Tower, Moa Complex, Coral Way Drive Cor. Macapagal, Barangay 76, Pasay City

Brief Job Description: Provides administrative support to ensure efficient operation of sales training department.

Brief Job Description: Assist with drafting business plans, sales, pitches, presentations, reference material and other documents as required.

PHAN THI MAI ANH Chinese Speaking Admin Associate

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

CAO THI QUYNH Chinese Speaking Admin Associate

Brief Job Description: Provides administrative support to ensure efficient operation of sales training department.

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

139.

127.

Brief Job Description: Provides administrative support to ensure efficient operation of sales training department.

LY VAN KIEN Chinese Speaking Admin Associate

INFOSYS BPM LIMITED - PHILIPPINE BRANCH 19th-23rd Flr., Bgc Corporate Center, 11th Ave. Corner 30th Sts., City Of Taguig

SHETE, PAYAL RAJENDRA Senior Systems Engineer

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

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

ZHANG, SHENG Mandarin Marketing Officer

Basic Qualification: Communicating with customers and sales representatives.

GUANGXI HYDRO ELECTRIC CONSTRUCTION BUREAU (GHCB PHILIPPINES CORPORATION) #58, Road 1, Project 6, Quezon City

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin contract administrator, excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.

No.

HUBEI SHUIZONG WATER RESOURCES AND HYDROPOWER CONSTRUCTION CO. LTD. PHILIPPINES BRANCH OFFICE Unit 702 State Condo I, 186 Salcedo St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Preparation and updating of budget and estimate at completion, including comparison with the tender. Preparation of periodic cost control reports. Preparation of a budget analysis during the procurement stage.

AN, HYUNJEONG Korean Customer Service

Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

HANKOOK PHILIPPINE BUSINESS CONSULTANCY GROUP INC. Unit 301 Prestige Tower Condo, F. Ortigas Jr. Road, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Brief Job Description: The mandarin structural maintenance supervisor will be a strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

GULERMAK AGIR SANAYI INSAAT VE TAAHHUT A.S. (PHILIPPINE BRANCH) Level 9/ Arthaland Century Pacific Tower, 30th Street Corner 5th Avenue Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

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

GRUNDFOS IS SUPPORT & OPERATIONS CENTRE PHILIPPINES INC. 25th & 26th Floors Robinsons Cyberscape Beta Ruby & Topaz Roads, Ortigas Ctr., San Antonio, City Of Pasig

ESPINDOLA, DANIEL ELISEO Customer Master Data Coordinator (Spanish Speaking)

122.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries.

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

ZHANG, SHAOYUAN Mandarin Structural Maintenance Supervisor

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries.

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

CHANG, SHUAI Mandarin Site Officer

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

Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries.

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

YANG, YANZHEN Mandarin Marketing Manager

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

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in English and their respective native language for the position applied for, Fluent in Chinese Mandarin is an advantage.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

CHI QUANG VI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 144.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

A10 A6 Thursday, December 28, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION DANG CONG MANH Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

145.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

DANG XUAN HANH Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 146.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

LAI, JINXIAN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 147.

Brief Job Description: Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. With good in oral and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NGUYEN THI MY LINH Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 159.

148.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

NGUYEN THI MINH TUYEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 149.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

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

160.

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

150.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

THAM YIP HON Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 151.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

152.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

VU TUAN ANH Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 153.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

DO DANG DAT Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 154.

Brief Job Description: liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

DUONG THI XUAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 155.

156.

157.

Brief Job Description: liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

HO THI MINH NGUYET Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer Brief Job Description: Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

NGUYEN ANH TUAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer Brief Job Description: Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

NGUYEN THI DUNG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 158.

Brief Job Description: Prepare rough drafts and present ideas and conceptualize visuals based on requirements.

Brief Job Description: Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 PENG, GAOFENG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 162.

163.

164.

Basic Qualification: have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Prepare rough drafts and present ideas and conceptualize visuals based on requirements.

ZHANG, QI Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 166.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

ZHANG, SITAO Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 167.

Brief Job Description: Prepare rough drafts and present ideas and conceptualize visuals based on requirements.

CAO TUAN LINH Chinese Speaking Program Designer 168.

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

Basic Qualification: have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

YU, JINGLONG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

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

Brief Job Description: liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

TRAN THI HUYEN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

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

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. With good in oral and written communication skills.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

PHAM THI HUE Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written.

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

Brief Job Description: collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

DANG QUOC PHUONG Chinese Speaking Program Designer 169.

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems. Verify and deploy programs and systems.

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

DAO VU TINH HAN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 170.

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proven graphic designing experience. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials, keeping up to date with design and software trends and perform retouching and manipulation of images.

No.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

HOANG THI THUY Chinese Speaking Program Designer 173.

Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials, keeping up to date with design and software trends and Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

JIAN, PENGFEI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 174.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

JULY ANTONI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 175.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

LE PHUONG THAO Chinese Speaking Program Designer 176.

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems. Verify and deploy programs and systems.

LE VAN QUOC VU Chinese Speaking Program Designer 177.

Brief Job Description: collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

165.

TRAN VAN TRUNG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

NGUYEN THI TRA Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

NGUYEN THI TRAM Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Basic Qualification: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information, correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing and entering and updating information into relevant databases.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

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

NGUYEN THI NAM Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. With good in oral and written communication skills.

161. NGUYEN THAO UYEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

LIN HA NAM XANH Chinese Speaking Program Designer 178.

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NGUYEN HUU HOA Chinese Speaking Program Designer 179.

180.

181.

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

171.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

GAO, XINCHENG Chinese Speaking Program Designer 172.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems. Verify and deploy programs and systems.

PHAM THI NHU QUYNH Chinese Speaking Program Designer 182.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/good in oral communication and written.

RUAN, YIPING Chinese Speaking Program Designer 183.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With experience in computer design. With good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With experience in computer design. With good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With experience in computer design. With good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With experience in computer design. With good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With experience in computer design. With good in oral and written communication.

TANG JIUN MING Chinese Speaking Program Designer 184.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/good in oral communication and written.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

TRAN THI LIEU Chinese Speaking Program Designer 185.

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

DUONG PHAT MY LINH Chinese Speaking Program Designer

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems. Verify and deploy programs and systems.

NGUYEN THI THANH THANH Chinese Speaking Program Designer

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written.

Basic Qualification: Proven graphic designing experience. Good in oral and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

NGUYEN THI THANH NGA Chinese Speaking Program Designer

Basic Qualification: Proven graphic designing experience. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems. Verify and deploy programs and systems.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

TRINH HOANG YEN NHI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 186.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. With good in oral and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

WANG, XING Chinese Speaking Program Designer 187.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

WONG MID SHI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 188.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians to deliver software solutions.

ZHAO, HAORAN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 189.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

No.

204.

205.

190.

Brief Job Description: Analyzing financial data, researching macroeconomic and microeconomic conditions and preparing the required reports and projections based on the analysis performed.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least a year of relevant work experience in a similar field.

206.

TRAN THI MY THANH Control Specialist 191.

192.

193.

Brief Job Description: Lead analysis on risk information to gain risk insights. DO, THI MINH TRI Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them. DOAN, TRUNG HIEU Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them. HA, DUY BAO Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking

194.

Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them.

207.

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

KNW TECHNOLOGY INC. 103 Equinox Plaza, Sierra Madre, Highway Hills, City Of Mandaluyong

208.

Basic Qualification: Create and develop PowerPoint slides for daily meetings. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

209.

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

210.

Basic Qualification: Vietnamese speaking. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NGUYEN, NGOC THANH Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them. NGUYEN, NHAT TRUONG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them. NGUYEN, QUANG HIEP Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking

INTERGENERATION PRIME HOLDING INC. 11/f Tower 1 The Enterprise Center, 6766 Ayala Ave. Cor, Paseo De Roxas, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati LI, MANMAN Financial Specialist

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

211.

Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them.

NGUYEN, THANH TOAN Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them. NGUYEN, THI TO NHU Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them. PHAM, HUU MINH Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them. PHAN NGOC DOAN TRANG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them. VO, TAN KEN Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them.

195.

196.

197.

198.

199.

Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them. HOANG, VAN LONG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them. LE, NHAT HUY Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them. LE, PHUOC HUNG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them. LE, QUANG DUNG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them.

Basic Qualification: Vietnamese speaking.

200.

201.

202.

203.

Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them.

NGO, THI THUY NHUNG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them. NGUYEN, HOANG LUAN Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer’s language preference as you assist them.

NGUYEN, NGOC DUONG Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking Brief Job Description: Confirm customer language preferred as you assist them.

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

No.

219.

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Good understanding of market research techniques, statistical and data analysis methods.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION LI, JING Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

LI, JINGSHI Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 220.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

Basic Qualification: Vietnamese speaking. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

221.

NGUYEN, THANH TAM Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate Brief Job Description: Collating and maintaining client information.

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience. PHUN, TU VINH Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 222. Basic Qualification: Vietnamese speaking.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

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

Basic Qualification: Vietnamese speaking.

223.

QIU, TANG Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate Brief Job Description: Collating and maintaining client information.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 SOI TAC QUAY Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

224.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

WILLIAM Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 213. Basic Qualification: With relative work experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

TANG, JUNJIE Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate

Basic Qualification: Excellent in both Mandarin and English (written and spoken). Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BUI THI BAO DIEP Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 214.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

Basic Qualification: Vietnamese speaking. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

DONG, YANDONG Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate

Basic Qualification: Vietnamese speaking.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

WANG, YANAN Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 226.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

WU, HUAQING Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 227.

FU, GUANG Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 216.

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

XIA, SHUANG Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 228.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: End to end partner management from opening to closing sales. Conducting market research and identifying potential clients. Collating and maintaining client information.

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience. 217.

Basic Qualification: Vietnamese speaking. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

YU, HAIFEI Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 229.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

218.

GAO, BAOJIAN Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate Brief Job Description: Collating and maintaining client information.

LE THI THUY DUONG Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate Brief Job Description: Collating and maintaining client information.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

Basic Qualification: End to end partner management from opening to closing sales. Conducting market research and identifying potential clients. Collating and maintaining client information.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written.

ZHANG, DONGDONG Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 230.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

ZHANG, XIN Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 231.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: End to end partner management from opening to closing sales. Conducting market research and identifying potential clients. Collating and maintaining client information. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

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

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience.

Basic Qualification: Graduate 4 years’ bachelor degree with critical thinking and problem solving skills.

NEO INCORPORATED North Tower Centrum Bldg., Aseana Avenue, Entertainment City, Baclaran, City Of Parañaque

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Provide product/services, information, answer questions and resolve emerging problems.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication.

Basic Qualification: With relative work experience.

MPOTECH DIGITAL SYSTEM INC. 2/f 331 Bldg., Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: Vietnamese speaking.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

215. LE, THACH HAI Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

225.

212.

A11

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

LUCKY365 CONSULTING LIMITED CORP. U/18a 18f 18/f Trafalgar Plaza, 105 H.v. Dela Costa St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

DENG, YUHONG Chinese Speaking Customer Service Supervisor HA, THI THU HIEN Customer Service Representative - Vietnamese Speaking

Thursday, December 28, 2023

ZHANG, YUAN Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 232.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: End to end partner management from opening to closing sales. Conducting market research and identifying potential clients. Collating and maintaining client information. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

A12 A6 Thursday, December 28, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

AN, NING Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 233.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information. Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing. Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

No.

HU, SHIYI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 246.

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

CAO, JINLONG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 234.

Brief Job Description: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information.

CAO, JUNSHUAI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 235.

Brief Job Description: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information.

CHAN JIA YONG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 236.

Brief Job Description: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information.

CHEN, XINLIN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 237.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

238.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

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

HUANG, BAOQIAN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 247.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written

HUANG, JINFA Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 248.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information. Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing. Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

239.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

CUN NHOC PHUC Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 240.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

FU, HUAQIN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 241.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

HUANG, WENLIN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 249.

Basic Qualification: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information, correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing AND Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

Brief Job Description: Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing.

JIANG, YONGXIANG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 250.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

KHONG JIA JUN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

251.

242.

Brief Job Description: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information.

GUAN, RIYOU Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 243.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

LANG THI THI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 252.

244.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

HU, JINGFENG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 245.

Brief Job Description: Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

LE, THI THAO MY Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees.

LEE, CHEN-HSUAN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 254.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

260.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

LUONG THI HUONG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 261.

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

Basic Qualification: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information. Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing. Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

LUO, SHIQIANG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Brief Job Description: Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing.

MEI, TAO Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 262.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

NE CHI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 263.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

NGUYEN THI HONG HANH Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication.

264.

Brief Job Description: entering and updating information into relevant databases

NGUYEN THI HUYEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

NGUYEN THI THU HIEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

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

LI, CHENGREN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 255.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

LI, WEI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 256.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written.

267.

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

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees.

NGUYEN YEN MINH Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 268.

Brief Job Description: Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing.

NGUYEN, THI THUY Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 269.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information. Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing. Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in verbal and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/ good in oral and written communication Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information, correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing and entering and updating information into relevant databases. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

259.

NGUYEN VAN DAI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

LUC KIM ANH Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

266.

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

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/ good in oral and written communication.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

265.

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

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

LIU, PENG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

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

HOANG TRONG VU Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/ good in oral and written communication.

257.

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION LI, YANG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

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

253.

FU, YANMEI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

No.

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

CUI, YIHAO Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

258.

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

CHEN, YONGPENG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

NONG VAN VINH Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 270.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

OU, ZHAOCHEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 271.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

PENG, JIELI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 272.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

PHAM VAN TUAN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 273.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION TIAN, JIN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

284.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

TRAN KIM THANH Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 285.

Brief Job Description: entering and updating information into relevant databases.

TRAN, THI BINH Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 286.

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

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

SHAO, JIANYONG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 274.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

287.

WANG, YEMIN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

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

SHAO, JINGWEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 275.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

288.

SHEN, QIANGGUO Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 276.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees.

SIM CHEE HUNG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 277.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

SU, CHAN KIT Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 278.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

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

289.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

YANG, JIANYING Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 290.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

YU, XUE Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 291.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

WEI, XUANYAN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

ZENG, XIANGSHENG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 292.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

ZHANG, CONG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

SUN, BIN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 279.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

TAN, BOWEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 280.

Brief Job Description: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information

TANG, LIN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 281.

Brief Job Description: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information THIDA NAING Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

282.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

TIAN, JIAHUI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 283.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

293.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

ZHANG, WENXUE Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 294.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written.

Brief Job Description: Gather data and capture the information into databases.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in verbal communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ZHOU, BAOTAO Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 295.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

No.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ZHOU, TAO Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 296.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees, other departments and clients.

298.

297.

DU, HUI Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer Brief Job Description: Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Scanning through information to identify pertinent information, correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing and entering and updating information into relevant databases.

HAN, PENG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 299.

300.

301.

302.

304.

305.

306.

307.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

NIU, HAOBO Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 308.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

POLLY Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 309.

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

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

NGUYEN THI MINH TAM Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

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

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/good in oral and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

MA, LILI Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

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

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

LY THI THUY Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

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

Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials. keeping up to date with design and software trends. Perform retouching and manipulation of images.

Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials. keeping up to date with design and software trends. Perform retouching and manipulation of images. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven graphic designing experience. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials, keeping up to date with design and software trends and perform retouching and manipulation of images. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

LU, BAOKUN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

LIU, SHAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/good in oral communication and written.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written.

Brief Job Description: Prepare rough drafts and present ideas and conceptualize visuals based on requirements.

LI, QINGLONG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

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

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

HUANGFU, ZIYU Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

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

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

HE, XI Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

Brief Job Description: Prepare rough drafts and present ideas and conceptualize visuals based on requirements.

QIAO, ZHINAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 310.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

TAN, JIN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 311.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

TANG, YUQING Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 312.

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

DUONG TRUNG HOAI Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: ability to concentrate for lengthy periods/good in oral and written communication.

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

303.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Entering and updating information into relevant databases.

A13

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 VONG TO QUYEN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

VOONG NHIT BAU Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 313.

Brief Job Description: liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven graphic designing experience. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent oral and written communication skills and be able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Ability to concentrate for lengthy periods. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials. keeping up to date with design and software trends. Perform retouching and manipulation of images Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

A14 A6 Thursday, December 28, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION VY THI LIEN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

314.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

WEI, HUAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 315.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

YANG, BOCHAO Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 316.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

YANG, YIFENG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 317.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

BUI QUANG LONG VU Chinese Speaking Program Designer 318.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

KYAW WAI YAN OO Chinese Speaking Program Designer 329.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

LAM VINH KHIENG Chinese Speaking Program Designer 330.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience and good in oral communication and written.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

LE THANH VAN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 331.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

LIU, YUHUA Chinese Speaking Program Designer 332.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

CHENH CA HOI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 319.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

LUC THI ANH Chinese Speaking Program Designer 333.

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems, verify and deploy programs and systems.

GUO, YUNLU Chinese Speaking Program Designer 321.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

HOANG THI PHUONG Chinese Speaking Program Designer 322.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With experience computer aided design. Good in oral and written communication.

323.

HU, XIONG Chinese Speaking Program Designer 324.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

HUANG, CHENG Chinese Speaking Program Designer 325.

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems, verify and deploy programs and systems

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

MA, ZHIWEN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 335.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

NGUYEN, TRUNG LUC Chinese Speaking Program Designer 336.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

NONG, YOUFU Chinese Speaking Program Designer 337.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written

No.

PHAM, QUANG TUAN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 338.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

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

TANG LY SANG Chinese Speaking Program Designer 341.

326.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

SHANG, XU Chinese Speaking Program Designer 339.

HUANG, HUA Chinese Speaking Program Designer 327.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

JIANG, JINJING Chinese Speaking Program Designer 328.

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems. verify and deploy programs and systems.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written.

THAI BA KIEN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 342.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication.

343.

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

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team. TRAN THI HOA Chinese Speaking Program Designer

344.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

TRAN THI MINH LE Chinese Speaking Program Designer 345.

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems. Verify and deploy programs and systems.

TRIEU, THI MAI Chinese Speaking Program Designer Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

WIN HTET ZAW Chinese Speaking Program Designer 347.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

YANG KWAY CHIN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 348.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions. YANG, CHENGHAO Chinese Speaking Program Designer

349.

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

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written.

Brief Job Description: Testing and deploying programs and systems. Verify and deploy programs and systems. THAN THI LIEN Chinese Speaking Program Designer

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

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

YE, DANNI Chinese Speaking Program Designer 350.

Brief Job Description: collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

ZHOU, YIJIAN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 351.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With experience computer aided design. Good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience, good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: with at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Review requirement and design changes, determine what parts of software are affected, and direct programming to meet requirements; determine specific components, document all aspects of software, for ongoing maintenance and revisions and collaborate with other it specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ZHU, XINGYU Chinese Speaking Program Designer 352.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialist, technicians, et., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience/Good in oral communication and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NEW WORLD INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PHILIPPINES, INC. (NEW WORLD MAKATI HOTEL) Cor. Arnaiz, Makati Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

353.

NG CHEE KIN Executive Chinese Chef Brief Job Description: Lead the Chinese culinary restaurant operations.

Basic Qualification: MBA holder. With at least 5 years of culinary management experience with demonstrated leadership in an international five-star or luxury hotel. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

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

Basic Qualification: With experience computer aided design. Good in oral and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 HUANG, HAIHAN Chinese Speaking Program Designer

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months’ experience. Good in verbal communication and written.

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

HOANG, THANH TIEP Chinese Speaking Program Designer Brief Job Description: Communicate overall design and approach to a team of programmers; create flowcharts, diagrams, other models, and programming instructions to guide programming team.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

LUONG NGOC TUYET Chinese Speaking Program Designer 334.

320.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

346.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 DINH HUU THANH Chinese Speaking Program Designer

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

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

www.businessmirror.com.ph

SUN, LE Chinese Speaking Program Designer 340.

Brief Job Description: Collaborate with other IT specialists, technicians, etc., to deliver software solutions.

Basic Qualification: with at least 6 months’ experience. Good in oral communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NOCMAKATI, INC. 8,9,10,11,12,14,15,16,17,18 & 19 Floors, Century Diamond Center, Poblacion, City Of Makati

354.

LI, JIA-LENG Call Center Agent Brief Job Description: Customer service.

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in mandarin/ basic English. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION STIBEN Call Center Agent

355.

356.

357.

358.

Brief Job Description: College graduate/level and fluent in mandarin/ basic English.

WANG, JUN-YANG Call Center Agent Brief Job Description: Customer service.

WEN, GUANG-WEI Call Center Agent Brief Job Description: Customer service.

YANG, PO-FANG Call Center Agent Brief Job Description: Customer service.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Customer service. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in mandarin/ basic English.

No.

ROJAMANI BERCHMANS, KENNETH JEYSEELAN Head - Talent Development Asia Pacific (APAC) 369.

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

ZHAO, YUQIAN Technical Specialist for Steel Structure 370.

359.

Brief Job Description: Resolve customer inquiries and supervise escalated issues, providing efficient and effective customer service to clients. Identify opportunities to offer value added products and services. Facilitate training based on needs of staff within the department and assist with answering staff questions within Disputes, as needed.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Chinese-Mandarin language. With excellent verbal and written communication skills.

LEE, SIWON Customer Service Representative 360.

Brief Job Description: Field incoming help requests from end user via both phone and work orders. Document all pertinent end user identification information, including name, department, contact information and nature of problem or issue.

RRA ONE GLOBAL CONSULTANCY CORP Blk 1 Lot 6 Progressive St.,, Lucky Homes Subd,, Barangay 168, City Of Caloocan LIN, DEAN Mandarin Speaking Consultant 361.

Brief Job Description: Identifying and addressing problems. Collecting and interpreting relevant information and data. Reporting to the management.

371.

372.

373.

362.

Brief Job Description: Serves as primary contact for problem resolution and information gathering regarding customer complaints and work assignments.

VO, LE TUONG VI Customer Support Staff - Vietnamese Language 363.

Brief Job Description: Serves as primary contact for problem resolution and information gathering regarding customer complaints and work assignment.

ARYA SHEARER Indonesian-language Customer Support Staff 364.

Brief Job Description: Serves as primary contact for problem resolution and information gathering regarding customer complaints and work assignment.

HENDRA JAYA Indonesian-language Customer Support Staff 365.

Brief Job Description: Serves as primary contact for problem resolution and information gathering regarding customer complaints and work assignment.

Basic Qualification: A native speaker of Vietnamese and fluent in English language (spoken and written).

374.

366.

Brief Job Description: Holding frequent meetings with various sales teams.

Basic Qualification: A native speaker of Indonesian and fluent in English language (spoken and written).

367.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with service partners in LSC, OTD & Credit. Accountable for a certain customer portfolio to take ownership, drive accountability, and demonstrate and communicate improvements for our customer journey. Own the end-to-end disputes process for quantity, pricing, tax and master data disputes.

CHEN, XIAOMEI Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist 375.

Brief Job Description: Assisting with the analyses of marketing data, including campaign results, conversion rates, and online traffic in order to improve future marketing strategies and campaigns. GUAN, XIAOLONG Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

376.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to identify current customer trends and benchmark competitor offerings.

GUO, QIAN Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist 377.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: A native speaker of Indonesian and fluent in English language (spoken and written).

378.

Brief Job Description: Assisting with the analyses of marketing data, including campaign results, conversion rates, and online traffic in order to improve future marketing strategies and campaigns. LEI, QIANQIAN Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

379.

Basic Qualification: Impressive leadership, communication and presentation skills.

Brief Job Description: Assisting with the analyses of marketing data, including campaign results, conversion rates, and online traffic in order to improve future marketing strategies and campaigns.

TAO, HUILAN Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist 380.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to identify current customer trends and benchmark competitor offerings.

ZHANG, HAOTIAN Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist 381.

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

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to identify current customer trends and benchmark competitor offerings.

SMARTMONETA INC. 6/f Iacademy Plaza, 324 Sen Gil Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

YOSHE Indonesian Language - Support Supervisor 368.

Brief Job Description: Identifies issues and gaps in current processes of documents

Basic Qualification: Fluently speak and write Indonesian language to cater foreign markets Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Basic Qualification: High school graduate. With previous work experience in a related industry.

383.

384.

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

385.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Creating marketing materials for our website and other marketing platforms

PENG, SONG Chinese Speaking Sales Marketing Specialist

386.

WANG, QIANG Chinese Speaking Sales Marketing Specialist 387.

YANG, XUEYAN Chinese Speaking Sales Marketing Specialist 388.

Basic Qualification: Nursing Sciences graduate. With at least 1 year of relevant work experience in a related field. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Brief Job Description: Building and maintaining relationships with new and existing customers through prospecting and network.

LIU, JUN Chinese Speaking Sales Marketing Specialist

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

Basic Qualification: Holder of a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Sustainable Development. With at least 1 year of relevant work experience in a related field.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to identify current customer trends and benchmark competitor offerings.

CAI, TINGTING Chinese Speaking Sales Marketing Specialist

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

Basic Qualification: Civil Engineering graduate. With at least 1 year of relevant work experience in a related field.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

Brief Job Description: Creating marketing materials for our website and other marketing platforms.

Brief Job Description: Gives inputs in the analysis of program results and gives recommendations for improvement.

SYED, ASIM SALMAN Business Execution Director 390.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for managing day to day operations, transitions, operations insights, and analysis. Manage monthly operations review and strategic operations projects.

IWATA, RYOSUKE Nihongo Skilled Project Coordinator Bridge Se

391.

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

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Master’s Degree in Management. Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Brief Job Description: Coordinate with Japan counterpart, get training/ acquire knowledge and re-echo them to the offshore team. Implementation and support of Japanese projects. Perform translation of documents from Japanese to English, and vice versa as need in the projects. Software and Technical documentation.

Basic Qualification: Holder of a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. With at least 3 years of interpretation and translation work experience. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, particularly in Japanese and English languages. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

YUANEFFULGENCE CORP. 14/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati LI, LANG Mandarin Speaking Admin Team Leader 392.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

WESERV SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC. 11f Net 2 Square, 3rd Ave. Crescent Park West, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

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

WELLS FARGO INTERNATIONAL SOLUTIONS LLC-PHILIPPINES Wells Fargo Center, 1180 Wells Fargo Drive, Mckinley Hill Cyberpark, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

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

Basic Qualification: Excellent communication skills. With experience as Trade Marketing Specialist.

LI, GUORONG Chinese Speaking Trade Marketing Specialist 389.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for employee’s training and development. Monitor and improved quality standard of Administrative Services. Delegate task and set deadlines.

LIN, CHUN-HUNG Mandarin Speaking Admin Team Leader 393.

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

Brief Job Description: Responsible for employee’s training and development. Monitor and improve quality standards of Administrative Services. Delegate task and set deadlines.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With previous related experience in a similar industry. Fluent in Chinese and English languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Chinese-Mandarin and English languages. Excellent in handling simultaneous task. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

GOODYIELDS SERVICES INC. Unit ug-08 ug/f cityland 10 tower 2, 154 h.v. dela costa cor. valero sts., bel-air, city of makati

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

Basic Qualification: Tertiary education. Fluency in Spanish language. Experience in Customer Service. Knowledgeable in GSAP/R3 is required.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to identify current customer trends and benchmark competitor offerings.

HONG, BIN Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

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

SHELL SHARED SERVICES (ASIA) B.V. 16/f-25/f Solaris One Bldg., 130 Dela Rosa St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati MORA MORENO, YULIANA Customer Success Specialist

Brief Job Description: Assisting with the analyses of marketing data, including campaign results, conversion rates, and online traffic in order to improve future marketing strategies and campaigns.

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

RUNTO TECHNOLOGY INC. Unit 2601, And 2602 26th Floor One World Place, 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

QU, CHAOFAN Regional Sales Head

Brief Job Description: Responsible for monitoring multiple sites concurrently while delivering a high-level of customer service to the company’s clients.

CHEN, KE Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: A native speaker of Vietnamese and fluent in English language (spoken and written).

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION ZHAO, FAN Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist

WELL SOLUTION CORP. Unit 1100-d 11/f Vicente Madrigal Bldg., 6793 Ayala Avenue, Bel-air, City Of Makati

RUNNINGMAN CORPORATION 8/f Techzone Bldg., 213 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati NGUYEN, DUC TUYEN Customer Support Staff - Vietnamese Language

Brief Job Description: Responsible for monitoring multiple sites concurrently while delivering a high-level of customer service to the company’s clients.

MAYALA, CHRISTIE VITULUA-LINA Remote Concierge Specialist Iii

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Vietnamese and ChineseMandarin languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Responsible for monitoring multiple sites concurrently while delivering a high-level of customer service to the company’s clients.

MASSAI, JONATHAN Remote Concierge Specialist Iii

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Excellent communication skills, multilingual, computer literate. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Responsible for the management and fulfillment of the technological process, and works to improve the applied technologies.

COULIBALY, MEGNORO HAMED Remote Concierge Specialist Iii

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

ROYAL GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES INC. 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, Ph Flr., Bpo Global Link Center, Shaw Blvd., Wack-wack Greenhills, City Of Mandaluyong

Basic Qualification: Holder of a Master’s Degree in Philosophy. With at least 20 years of experience specializing in Human Resources - Training and Development and Talent Management.

No.

UCIT PHILIPPINES INC. Unit 1001 Hanston Square Bldg., San Miguel Ave., Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

ONWARD WORLDWIDE MANAGEMENT & CONSULTANCY SERVICES CORP. 5/f Greensun Bldg., 2285 Chino Roces Ave. Ext., Magallanes, City Of Makati YE, FEI Client Support Agent

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

TRIPLE J GO’S CONSTRUCTION AND MACHINERY INC. N 1803 A Vasquez St., Corner Julio Nakpil St., Barangay 697, Malate, City Of Manila

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in mandarin/ basic English.

Brief Job Description: Design and deploy Initial Learning Program (ILP) across the APAC region. Training identification across vertical and horizontal sets of the pyramid associates in the organization. Review and fine-tune the training content to match the business requirements.

A15

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

TATA CONSULTANCY SERVICES (PHILIPPINES) INC. 8th-12th, 14th & 15th Floor, Panorama Tower, 34th Street Corner Lane A, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/level and fluent in mandarin/ basic English.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Thursday, December 28, 2023

ZHAO, DONGE Chinese Speaking Brand Marketing Specialist 382.

Brief Job Description: Conduct market research to identify current customer trends and benchmark competitor offerings.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

LI, PENG Mandarin Customer Service Representative 394.

Brief Job Description: Ensuring that procedures are being followed, while also suggesting ideas for stream lining processes.

Basic Qualification: College Graduate. Computer Proficiency. Fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese and Taiwanese Language. Excellent Interpersonal and communications skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

*Date Generated: Dec 27, 2023 In the ad material of Notice of Filing of Application for Alien Employment Permits published on DECEMBER 19, 2023, the Company OCEAN MIGHT SUPPORT INC., of the three Foreign Nationals LY NGOC VAN, LI, MINGYUE & CHEN, JUNLUN should have been read as OCTAGON PRIME OUTSOURCING SERVICES INC. and not as published. Any person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired may file an objection at DOLE National Capital Region located at DOLE-NCR Building, 967 Maligaya St., Malate Manila, within 30 days after this publication. Please inform DOLE National Capital Region if you have any information on criminal offense committed by the foreign nationals.

A16 Thursday, December 28, 2023

TheWorld BusinessMirror

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

Israeli army says Gaza ground offensive has expanded into urban refugee camps By Najib Jobain, Wafaa Shurafa & Samy Magdy The Associated Press

AFAH, Gaza Strip—Israeli forces on Tuesday expanded their ground offensive into urban refugee camps in central Gaza after bombarding the crowded Palestinian communities and ordering residents to evacuate. Gaza’s main telecom provider announced another “complete interruption” of services in the besieged territory. The military’s announcement of the new battle zone threatens further destruction in a war that Israel says will last for “many months” as it vows to crush the ruling Hamas militant group after its October 7 attack. Israeli forces have been engaged in heavy urban fighting in northern Gaza and the southern city of Khan Younis, driving Palestinians into ever-smaller areas in search of refuge. The US said Israel’s minister for strategic affairs, Ron Dermer, was meeting with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivan to discuss topics including transitioning to a different phase of the war to maximize focus on highvalue Hamas targets, improving the humanitarian situation, and planning for governance and security in Gaza after the war. Despite US calls for Israel to curb civilian casualties and international pressure for a cease-fire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the military was deepening the fighting. “We say to the Hamas terrorists: We see you and we will get to

you,” Netanyahu said. Israel’s offensive is one of the most devastating military campaigns in recent history. More than 20,900 Palestinians, two-thirds women and children, have been killed, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza, whose count doesn’t differentiate between civilians and combatants. The agency said 240 people were killed over the past 24 hours. The UN human rights office said the continued bombardment of middle Gaza had claimed more than 100 Palestinian lives since Christmas Eve. The office noted that Israel had ordered some residents to move there. Israel said it would no longer grant automatic visas to UN employees and accused the world body of being “complicit partners” in Hamas’ tactics. Government spokesman Eylon Levy said Israel would consider visa requests case by case. That could further limit aid efforts in Gaza. Residents of central Gaza described shelling and airstrikes shaking the Nuseirat, Maghazi and Bureij camps. The built-up

MEDICS unload the bodies of Palestinians killed in fighting with Israel and turned over by the Israeli military during a mass funeral in Rafah, Gaza Strip on Tuesday, December 26, 2023. AP/FATIMA SHBAIR

towns hold Palestinians driven from their homes in what is now Israel during the 1948 war, along with their descendants. “The bombing was very intense,” Radwan Abu Sheitta said by phone from Bureij. The Israeli military ordered residents to evacuate a belt of territory the width of central Gaza, urging them to move to nearby Deir al-Balah. The UN humanitarian office said the area ordered evacuated was home to nearly 90,000 people before the war and now shelters more than 61,000 displaced people, mostly from the north. The militar y later said it was operating in Bureij and asserted that it had located a Hamas training camp. The telecom outage announced by Paltel follows similar outages through much of the war. NetBlocks, a group that tracks Internet outages, confirmed that network connectivity in Gaza was disrupted again and “likely to leave most residents offline.” Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan said several countries had sent proposals to resolve the conflict following news of an Egyptian proposal that would include

Sweden closer to Nato membership after approval by Turkey’s parliament By Suzan Fraser

The Associated Press

N K A R A , Tu rk e y—T he Turkish parliament’s foreign affairs committee gave its consent to Sweden’s bid to join Nato on Tuesday, drawing the previously nonaligned Nordic country closer to membership in the Western military alliance. Sweden’s accession protocol will now need to be approved in the Turkish parliament’s general assembly for the last stage of the legislative process in Turkey. No date has been set. Turkey, a Nato member, has delayed ratification of Sweden’s membership for more than a year, accusing the country of being too lenient toward groups that Ankara regards as threats to its security, including Kurdish militants and members of a network that Ankara blames for a failed coup in 2016. The Turkish parliament’s foreign affairs committee had begun discussing Sweden’s membership in Nato last month. But the meeting was adjourned after legislators from Erdogan’s ruling party submitted a motion for a postponement on grounds that some issues needed more clarification and that negotiations with Sweden hadn’t

TURKEY’S President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, left, shakes hands with Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, right, as NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg looks on prior to a meeting ahead of a NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania on July 10, 2023. The Turkish parliament’s foreign affairs committee was poised on Tuesday, December 26, 2023, to resume deliberations on Sweden’s bid to join NATO, days after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan linked the Nordic country’s admission on US approval of Turkey’s request to purchase F-16 fighter jets. YVES HERMAN, POOL PHOTO VIA AP

“matured” enough. On Tuesday, the committee resumed its deliberations and a large majority of legislators in the committee voted in favor of Sweden’s application to join. Briefing the committee members before the vote, Deputy Foreign Minister Burak Akcapar cited steps Sweden had taken steps to meet Turkish demands, including lifting restrictions on defense industry sales and amending antiterrorism laws in ways that “no one could have imaged five or six

years ago.” “It is unrealistic to expect that the Swedish authorities will immediately fulfill all of our demands. This is a process, and this process requires long-term and consistent effort,” he said, adding that Turkey would continue to monitor Sweden’s progress. Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström welcomed the committee’s decision on a message posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. “The next step is for parliament

a transitional Palestinian government in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. He did not offer details of the proposals.

Regional spillover

DEFENSE Minister Yoav Gallant said Israel faces a “multi-arena war” on seven fronts—Gaza and the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Iran. “We have responded and acted already on six of these,” he told the Knesset’s Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. Iranian-backed militia groups around the region have stepped up attacks in support of Hamas. Iranian-backed militias in Iraq carried out a drone strike on a US base in Irbil on Monday, wounding three American service members, according to US officials. In response, US warplanes hit three locations in Iraq connected to a main militia, Kataib Hezbollah. Almost daily, Hezbollah and Israel exchange missiles, airstrikes and shelling across the Israeli-Lebanese border. On Tuesday, Israel’s military said Hezbollah struck a Greek Orthodox church in northern Israel with a missile, wounding two Israeli Christians, and fired again on arriving soldiers, wounding nine. to vote on the matter. We look forward to becoming a member of Nato,” he tweeted. Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg also welcomed the development, saying that he counts on Turkey and Hungary “to now complete their ratifications as soon as possible. Sweden’s membership will make Nato stronger.” Hungary has also stalled Sweden’s bid, alleging that Swedish politicians have told “blatant lies” about the condition of Hungary’s democracy. Hungary hasn’t announced when the country’s ratification may occur. Earlier this month, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had openly linked ratification of Sweden’s Nato membership to the US Congress’ approval of a Turkish request to purchase 40 new F-16 fighter jets and kits to modernize Turkey’s existing fleet. Erdogan also called on Canada and other Nato allies to lift arms embargoes imposed on Turkey. The White House has backed the Turkish F-16 request but there is opposition in Congress to military sales to Turkey. Sweden and Finland abandoned their traditional positions of military nonalignment to seek protection under Nato’s security umbrella, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Finland joined the alliance in April, becoming Nato’s 31st member, after Turkey’s parliament ratified the Nordic country’s bid.

“Hezbollah is risking the stability of the region for the sake of Hamas,” said Israel’s military spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari. In the Red Sea, attacks by Houthi rebels in Yemen against commercial ships have disrupted trade and prompted a US-led multinational naval operation to protect shipping routes. The Israeli military said a fighter jet on Tuesday shot down a “hostile aerial target” above the Red Sea that the military asserted was on its way to Israeli territory. The USS Laboon, a Navy destroyer, and American fighter jets shot down 12 drones, three antiship ballistic missiles and two land-attack cruise missiles in the southern Red Sea that were fired by the Yemen-based Houthis over a 10-hour period Tuesday, according to the Pentagon. US Central Command said there was no damage to ships in the area or reported injuries.

A mass grave

MORE than 85 percentof Gaza’s 2.3 million people have been driven from their homes. UN officials say a quarter of the territory’s population is starving under Israel’s siege, which allows in a trickle of food, water, fuel, medicine and other supplies. Last week, the UN Security Council called for immediately speeding up aid deliveries, but there has been little sign of change. In an area Israel had declared a safe zone, a strike hit a home in Mawasi, a rural area in the southern province of Khan Younis. One woman was killed and at least eight were wounded, according to a cameraman working for The Associated Press at the nearby hospital. In response, Israel’s military said that it wouldn’t refrain from operating in safe zones, “if it identifies terrorist organization

activity threatening the security of Israel.” Hamas’ October 7 attack in southern Israel killed around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took about 240 others hostage. Israel aims to free the more than 100 hostages who remain in captivity. President Joe Biden and Qatar’s ruling emir, Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, spoke on Tuesday, discussing the urgent effort to secure the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens. The leaders also discussed the ongoing efforts to facilitate increased and sustained flows of life-saving access to humanitarian aid into Gaza. Israel blames Hamas for the high civilian death toll in Gaza, citing militants’ use of crowded residential areas and tunnels. Israel says it has killed thousands of militants, without presenting evidence. At the Kerem Shalom border crossing, UN and Gazan medical workers unloaded a truck carrying about 80 unidentified bodies that had been held by Israeli forces in northern Gaza. They were buried in a mass grave. Medical workers called the odors unbearable. “We cannot open this container in a neighborhood where people live,” Dr. Marwan al-Hams, health emergency committee director in Rafah, told the AP. He said the health and justice ministries would investigate the bodies for possible “war crimes.” The Israeli military announced the deaths of two more soldiers, bringing the total killed since the ground offensive began to 161. Wafaa Shurafa reported from Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip, and Samy Magdy from Cairo. Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel, and Kareem Chehayeb in Beirut contributed to this report.

Ukrainian warplanes damage Russian landing ship in the Black Sea after battlefield disappointments By Hanna Arhirova The Associated Press

YIV, Ukraine—Ukrainian warplanes damaged a Russian ship moored in the Black Sea off Crimea, both countries said Tuesday, bolstering Ukrainian morale after battlefield disappointments and doubts about the future of Western aid. The planes fired guided missiles at the landing ship Novocherkassk, which is moored at a base in the city of Feodosia, Russia’s Defense Ministry said. Video on Russian and Ukrainian social media showed an explosion in the port. Ukrainian authorities claimed the ship was destroyed. They said it was likely carrying ammunition and possibly drones. The 360-foot Novocherkassk can carry 10 tanks and 225 sailors. “We saw how powerful the blast and detonation were. It’s extremely difficult for a ship to survive something like that,” Ukrainian air force spokesman Yurii Ihnat said on US-backed Radio Liberty. “The Russian fleet has become smaller,” Ukrainian air force Cmdr. Mykola Oleschuk said in a mocking message on the social media app Telegram. He urged Russians to leave Crimea “while it’s not too late.” Over the last few months, Ukrainian forces have conducted a string of attacks around Crimea, a Black Sea peninsula invaded and illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy credits those attacks, mostly with naval drones, with allowing Ukraine to restore navigation in the Black Sea and export of millions of tons of grain. In September, a Ukrainian attack hit

the headquarters of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet in the Crimean city of Sevastopol, killing one serviceman. Ukraine launched more missiles against the city the following day. But despite high hopes for a broader Ukrainian summer counteroffensive, the front line barely moved, and political disputes in allied countries have left billions of dollars of aid in doubt. This week, President Joe Biden is struggling to secure congressional support for continuing American assistance to Ukraine. Even though he’s repeatedly promised that the United States would back Ukraine for “as long as it takes” to defeat the Russian invasion, there’s no sign of a bipartisan deal to maintain the flow of supplies as the war approaches its third year. Showing Ukrainian forces’ difficulties on the battlefield, commander-in-chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi said Tuesday that his troops had retreated to the northern outskirts of the city of Marinka. Russia said Monday that it had taken Marinka, which sits about 20 kilometers (12 miles) west of Donetsk, the largest city in Russian-held territory. Zaluzhnyi told journalists Tuesday that Ukrainian troops had held Marinka for almost two years but Russians “were destroying it street by street, house by house.” “Our forces prepared a defensive line beyond this settlement. But I can say that this town no longer exists,” Zaluzhnyi said. He compared Russian tactics in Marinka to its tactics in Bakhmut, which was reduced to rubble by the time the Russian army captured the city.

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Thursday, December 28, 2023 A17

China sanctions US research firm, 2 individuals over reports on human rights abuses in Xinjiang

EIJING—China says it is banning a United States research company and two analysts who have reported extensively on claims of human rights abuses committed against Uyghurs and other Muslim minority groups native to the country’s far northwestern region of Xinjiang.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning was quoted as announcing late Tuesday night that Los Angeles-based research and data analytics firm Kharon, its director of investigations, Edmund Xu, and Nicole Morgret, a human rights analyst affiliated with the Center for Advanced Defense Studies, would be barred from traveling to China. Also, any assets or property they have in China will be frozen and organizations and individuals in China are prohibited from making transactions or otherwise cooperating with them.

In a statement on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, Mao said the sanctions against the company, Xu and Morgret were retaliation for a yearly US government report on human rights in Xinjiang. Uyghurs and other natives of the region share religious, linguistic and cultural links with the scattered peoples of Central Asia and have long resented the Chinese Communist Party’s heavy-handed control and attempts to assimilate them with the majority Han ethnic group. In a paper published in June 2022, Morgret wrote, “The Chi-

CHINESE Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning gestures during a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing, on July 26, 2023. China says it is banning a United States research company and two analysts who have reported extensively on claims of human rights abuses committed against Uyghurs and other Muslim minority groups native to the country’s far northwestern region of Xinjiang. AP/NG HAN GUAN

nese government is undertaking a concerted drive to industrialize the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), which has led an increasing number of corporations to establish manufacturing operations there. This centrallycontrolled industrial policy is a key tool in the government’s efforts to forcibly assimilate Uyghurs

and other Turkic peoples through the institution of a coerced labor regime.” Such reports draw from a wide range of sources, including independent media, non-governmental organizations and groups that may receive commercial and governmental grants or other outside funding. China has long denied such al-

legations, saying the large-scale network of prison-like facilities through which passed hundreds of thousands of Muslim citizens were intended only to rid them of violent, extremist tendencies and teach them job skills. Former inmates describe harsh conditions imposed without legal process and demands that they denounce their culture and sing the praises of President Xi Jinping and the Communist Party daily. China says the camps are all now closed, but many of their former inmates have reportedly been given lengthy prison sentences elsewhere. Access to the region by journalists, diplomats and others is tightly controlled, as is movement outside the region by Uyghurs, Kazaks and other Muslim minorities. “By issuing the report, the United States once again spread false stories on Xinjiang and illegally sanctioned Chinese officials and companies citing so-called human rights issues,” Mao was quoted as saying. “If the United States refuses to change course, China will not flinch and will respond in kind,”

Mao was quoted as telling reporters at an earlier news briefing. The US has slapped visa bans and a wide range of other sanctions on dozens of officials from China and the semi-autonomous city of Hong Kong, including the country’s former defense minister, who disappeared under circumstances China has yet to explain. China’s foreign minister also was replaced this year with no word on his fate, fueling speculation that party leader and head of state for life Xi is carrying out a purge of officials suspected of collaborating with foreign governments or simply showing insufficient loyalty to China’s most authoritarian leader since Mao Zedong. Hong Kong’s government has cracked down heavily on freedom of speech and democracy since China imposed a sweeping national security law in response to massive anti-government protests in 2019. Neither Xu or Morgret could immediately be reached for comment, and it wasn’t clear what degree of connection, if any, they had with the US government. AP

Wild weather leaves 10 dead in Australian states of Queensland and Victoria: Officials

RISBANE, Australia—Wild weather has left at least 10 people dead in the eastern Australian states of Queensland and Victoria, officials said on Wednesday. Three men, aged 48, 59 and 69, were killed after a boat with 11 people on board capsized in rough weather in Moreton Bay off the south Queensland coast on Tuesday, police said. Ambulances took eight survivors to a hospital in stable conditions. The men were aboard the 39foot pleasure craft on an annual fishing trip, The Courier Mail newspaper reported. Queensland Police Acting Chief Superintendent Andrew Pilotto said those rescued were lucky to survive. “The storm was still raging when they were rescued,” Pilotto said. “It would have been very difficult to survive in those conditions anywhere.” Elsewhere, a 59-year-old wom-

A TREE fell on a camping trailer near the Gold Coast, Australia on Tuesday, December 26, 2023. At least 10 people have died in wild weather in the Australian eastern states of Queensland and Victoria, officials said on Wednesday. DAVE HUNT/AAP IMAGE VIA AP

an was killed by a falling tree in the Queensland city of Gold Coast on Monday night. The body of a 9-year-old girl was found on Tuesday in the neighboring city of Brisbane hours after she disappeared in a flooded stormwater drain. The bodies of a 40-year-old

woman and a 46-year-old woman were found in the Mary River in the Queensland town of Gympie. They were among three women swept into the f looded r iver through a stormwater drain on Tuesday. Another 46 -year-old woman managed to save herself.

TEPCO’s operational ban lifted, putting it one step closer to restarting reactors By Mari Yamaguchi The Associated Press

OKYO—Japanese nuclear safety regulators lifted an operational ban Wednesday imposed on Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, the operator behind the Fukushima plant that ended in disaster, allowing the company to resume preparations for restarting a separate plant after more than 10 years. At its weekly meeting, the Nuclear Regulation Authority formally lifted the more than two-year ban imposed on the TEPCO over its lax safety measures, saying a series of inspections and meetings with company officials has shown sufficient improvement. The decision removes an order that prohibited TEPCO from transporting new fuel

into the plant or placing it into reactors, a necessary step for restarting Kashiwazaki-Kariwa’s reactors. The plant on Japan’s northern coast of Niigata is TEPCO’s only workable nuclear power plant since the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami put its Fukushima Daiichi plant out of operation. Now the company is burdened with the growing cost of decommissioning the Fukushima plant and compensating disaster-hit residents. The NRA slapped an unprecedented ban on the operator in April 2021 after revelations of a series of sloppy anti-terrorism measures at TEPCO’s Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant, the world’s largest nuclear power complex housing seven reactors. The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant was partially damaged in a 2007

earthquake, causing distrust among local municipalities. The March 2011 disaster caused stoppages of all 54 reactors Japan used to have before the Fukushima disaster, and prompted utility operators to decommission many of them due to additional safety costs, bringing the number of usable reactors to 33 today. Twelve reactors have been restarted under tougher safety standards, and the government wants to bring more than 20 others back online. TEPCO was making final preparations to restart the KashiwazakiKariwa plant’s No. 6 and No. 7 reactors after regulators granted safety approvals for them in 2017. But in 2018, regulators gave the plant’s nuclear security a “red” rating, the lowest given to any operator, resulting in the operational ban.

Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll blamed “extraordinarily difficult weather” for the tragedies. “It has been a very tragic 24 hours due to the weather,” Carroll told reporters. Severe weather has lashed parts of southeast Australia since Monday including Queensland and Victoria. A woman, who is yet to be identified, was found dead late Tuesday after flash flooding receded at a campground in Buchan in regional Victoria. The body of an unidentified man, who had been camping with the woman, was found late Wednesday, police said. Also on Tuesday, a 44-year-old man was killed by a falling branch on his rural property in Caringal in eastern Victoria. T hunderstorms and strong winds have brought down more than 1,000 power lines in parts of Queensland and left 85,000 people without electricity. AP

The case raised questions about whether TEPCO learned any lessons from the 2011 Fukushima crisis, which was largely attributed to the utility’s lack of concern about safety. NRA Chair Shinsuke Yamanaka told Wednesday’s meeting that the lifting of the restrictions is just the beginning, and TEPCO is still required to keep improving its safety precautions. Before TEPCO can restart the reactors, it needs the consent of nearby residents. Prior to the NRA decision Wednesday, Niigata Gov. Hideyo Hanazumi told reporters that the will of the voters he represents must be taken into consideration. The Japanese government recently began a push to restart as many reactors as possible to maximize nuclear energy and meet decarbonization targets. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s government has reversed Japan’s nuclear energy phaseout plan, instead looking to use atomic power as key energy supply accounting to more than onefifth of the country’s energy supply.

IN this photo provided by the North Korean government, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center, holds a year-end plenary meeting of the ruling Workers’ Party in Pyongyang, North Korea on Tuesday, December 26, 2023. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event depicted in this image distributed by the North Korean government. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. Korean language watermark on image as provided by source reads: “KCNA” which is the abbreviation for Korean Central News Agency. KOREAN CENTRAL NEWS AGENCY/KOREA NEWS SERVICE VIA AP

North Korea’s Kim boasts of achievements as he opens key year-end political meeting By Hyung-Jin Kim The Associated Press

EOUL, South Korea—North Korean leader Kim Jong Un praised what he called achievements and victories that strengthened national power and boosted the country’s prestige this year, as he opened a key political meeting to set new policy goals for 2024, state media reported Wednesday. Experts said that during this week’s year-end plenary meeting of the ruling Workers’ Party, North Korea would likely hype its progress in arms development because the country lacks economic achievements amid persistent international sanctions and pandemic-related economic hardships. In his opening-day speech at the meeting that began Tuesday, Kim defined 2023 “as a year of great turn and great change both in name and reality, in which (North Korea) left a great trace in the glorious course of development in the efforts to improve the national power and enhance the prestige of the country,” according to the official Korean Central News Agency. KCNA said North Korea achieved a rapid advancement in its defense capabilities this year in the wake of the launch of its first military spy satellite in November and the introduction of other sophisticated weapons. KCNA said North Korea also reported a rare good harvest this year as the country finished building new irrigation systems ahead of schedule and met major agricultural state objectives. It said that modern streets, new houses and other buildings were built in Pyongyang and elsewhere across the country. According to a recent assessment by South Korea’s state-run Rural Development Administration, North Korea’s grain production this year was estimated at 4.8 million tons, a 6.9 percent increase from last year’s 4.5

million tons, thanks to favorable weather conditions. But the 4.8 million tons are still short by about 0.7 million tons of sufficient annual levels, as experts say North Korea needs about 5.5 million tons of grain to feed its 25 million people each year. The Workers’ Party meeting, expected to last several days, will review state projects from this year and establish new objectives for next year. In recent years, North Korea has published the results of its meeting, including Kim’s closing speech, in state media on January 1, allowing him to skip his New Year’s Day address. The meeting comes after North Korea launched its most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile, the solid-fueled Hwasong-18, which is designed to strike the mainland US, into the sea last week. North Korea said the Hwasong-18 launch, the third of its kind this year, was meant to warn the US and South Korea over their confrontational moves against North Korea. On November 21, North Korea put its first military spy satellite into orbit, though outside experts question whether it can send militarily useful high-resolution imagery. The launches of the Hwasong-18 missile and the spy satellite were part of an ongoing run of weapons tests by North Korea since last year. Kim has maintained he was forced to expand his nuclear arsenal to cope with increasing hostilities from the US and its allies toward the North, but foreign experts say he eventually hopes to use an enlarged arsenal to win greater outside concessions when diplomacy resumes. Last Thursday, South Korean Defense Minister Shin Wonsik told lawmakers that North Korea appeared to be speeding up its weapons testing activities to highlight its achievements in defense sectors because it lacked major progress in the economy and public livelihoods.

A18 Thursday, December 28, 2023 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

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editorial

Making PHL an ideal cruise destination

lobally, the cruise industry generates over $150 billion in economic activity every year, supporting 1.17 million jobs spanning a wide variety of sectors, including hospitality, aviation, agriculture, retail, entertainment, manufacturing, information services, health care and, of course, tourism.

The Department of Tourism has identified cruise tourism as an important product for the Philippines, which can help the agency attain its inbound arrivals targets under the National Tourism Development Plan from 2023 to 2028. DOT data showed 23,275 arrivals by sea from January to December 12, 2023. Of the total, 23,238 were foreign tourists and 37 were overseas Filipinos or Philippine passport holders permanently residing abroad. The Philippines has all the ingredients to become an ideal cruise destination— pristine beaches, world-class dive sites, vibrant coral reefs, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality. In October, the Philippines was recognized as “Asia’s Best Cruise Destination in 2023” at the World Cruise Awards in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. In an increasingly interconnected world, a country’s reputation as a tourist destination is a valuable asset that contributes significantly to its economy and global standing. However, the impact of a single isolated untoward incident can have far-reaching consequences, tarnishing the nation’s image and devastating its tourism industry. With their ability to instantly share opinions, experiences, and visuals, social media platforms have the power to either promote or destroy a country’s reputation as a tourist destination. For example, cruise passenger Nelson Terible detailed on Facebook his account of their arrival at Pier 15, South Harbor, aboard the MV Norwegian Jewel on November 30. He noted the lack of porters, cramped conditions at the passenger terminal, and disorderly checking of travel documents by government authorities, including unscrupulous individuals preying on foreign tourists trying to get a ride from the port’s parking area. The Philippine Ports Authority on December 21 suspended the ship and cruise agents of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), following the reported chaotic disembarkation of the liner’s cruise passengers who arrived on November 30 in Manila. In a news statement, PPA said it has suspended the permits to operate of Ben Line Agencies and TravelPeople Ltd. for 30 days, following its “thorough investigation” of the disorder reported by a cruise passenger on MV Norwegian Jewel. (Read the BusinessMirror report, “PPA suspends ship, shore-ex agents of Norwegian Cruises,” December 22, 2023). PPA General Manager Jay Santiago said the suspension period “will give the operators more time to review their processes to further improve their services and ensure that a similar incident does not recur.” He added: “This kind of incident is unacceptable especially since there were pre-arrival meetings to prepare for the turnaround call, where about 2,300 passengers will disembark and 2,500 passengers will also board the cruise ship.” The PPA statement, however, failed to address the other complaints of the cruise passenger regarding government ports personnel not assisting to resolve the chaos at the terminal, as well as confusing inspections by authorities of passengers’ travel documents. Following this incident, a tourism leader reiterated the need for a dedicated cruise port and terminal in Manila to accommodate cruise ships and ensure an organized transfer of passengers. However, tycoon Enrique K. Razon, whose company had proposed to the Duterte administration in 2018 the building of a cruise terminal behind Solaire Resort, is no longer sure about the project. (See, “Razon group holding off on cruise terminal pending market conditions,” in the BusinessMirror, December 21, 2023.) Perception plays an important role in shaping the reputation of a tourist destination. Travelers rely on media reports, social media posts, and word-of-mouth recommendations to form an opinion about a country. When an untoward incident occurs, like the reported chaotic disembarkation of the cruise passengers who arrived in Manila on November 30, it often receives significant media coverage, amplifying its impact on public perception. Unfortunately, negative news tends to linger longer in the minds of potential visitors, casting a shadow over the entire country. Concerned authorities need to manage this crisis well, and actively work to rebuild trust and confidence in the country as a sought-after tourist destination. They should also invest in long-term strategies for reputation recovery. To attract cruise lines and offer a seamless experience to passengers, it would do well for the government to invest in developing the country’s infrastructure. This includes modernizing and expanding existing ports to accommodate large cruise ships, improving airport connectivity to major tourist destinations, and enhancing transportation networks between ports and popular tourist sites. We cannot overstate the significance of the global cruise industry to the growth of the country’s tourism and related industries.

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Road resolutions for 2024 Thomas M. Orbos

STREET TALK

E are at the tail end of the year and just like any previous year, it is the time to be thankful for whatever the year has brought us, regardless of how difficult and downtrodden was the 2023 road we took. It is also the time to look forward to a better life journey for 2024, amidst the chaos and uncertainty we have at the present. There is hope, and many blessings to be thankful for in our lives. In the real journeys we take everyday on our roads in Metro Manila, I am sure we feel the same. Despite the congestion, long drive, commuting time, the potholes, and the increasing road rage amongst motorists, we can only wish for a better situation next year. Listed below are my wishful thoughts for 2024 for us on the roads, where we practically spend a good part of our daily lives: PUVM: We wish for a mutually beneficial resolution to the consolidation deadline for our jeepneys. No matter who is at fault, there are those who will be harmed. We still need to find a way forward for them. One way would be to roll out a reasonable government subsidy. A model for this is the Davao high capacity transport model funded by the ADB. It can be done. Roadworthiness: The program is there and all it needs is an honest to goodness implementation. A lot of road accidents can be prevented, not to mention the important aspect of resolving the long-term problem of pollution. Lack of driver’s licenses and vehicle plates: Can we please already resolve what is supposedly a

very simple problem, with a very simple solution? This has been going on for at least three administrations already, affecting proper enforcement, road safety and contributing to crime. The problem always involves government procurement processes. Can we not just have government agencies do it themselves or have a long-term government-to-government arrangement? Driver-roadworthiness: If there is such a thing as vehicle roadworthiness, then there should also be a gauging of driver roadworthiness. Everyone on the road knows the traffic jungle out there, leading to a lot of instances of road rage and altercations. There is wisdom in reviewing present policies of testing driver capability. A vehicle is as deadly a

weapon as a firearm if a person who is not physically, intellectually and mentally fit drives it. Traffic signages, lighting and traffic aid devices: We understand and appreciate the many road improvements and new transport infrastructures that are currently ongoing. We have the trains, the subway, the many bypasses, etc. But down the wire, let us not let go of maintaining the streetlights, pedestrian lanes, barriers, cat- eyes, etc. Cheaper to maintain as these are already there, yet serious accidents can happen without them. Going back to the basics: Yes, despite the many plans, projects and programs, it seems that our transport authorities are leaving behind a number of basic orders of the day, and allow me to name a few: banned prepandemic, provincial bus stations are back along Edsa. I don’t mind the large ones wherein they can maneuver in their own areas, but adding to traffic are the one-bus stations where they use Edsa to navigate. Check the Baclaran-Edsa area. Senior citizen and handicapped people’s consideration for transport and infrastructure: There is a law and again, all we need is to be guided by it. Yet roads are being built without the marginalized in mind. The same goes with transport guidelines. Part of the modernization program has this in mind, though I am most certain we are lacking insofar as compliance is concerned. Full-automation: Following the directive of the President, we expect that the first sector that will have a

Ghost ships at reawakened North Korea port put Ukraine in peril By Jon Herskovitz

dormant North Korean port near the border with Russia has sprung back to life, fueling what experts say is a burgeoning trade in arms destined for the frontlines in Ukraine that is simultaneously bolstering the anemic economy managed by Kim Jong Un. Satellite imagery of the Najin port taken from October to December shows a steady stream of ships at the facility, hundreds of shipping containers being loaded and unloaded, and rail cars ready to transport goods. The activity appears to have picked up since early October, when the US accused North Korea of sending munitions to Russia. The White House provided imagery it said showed weapons later being delivered thousands of miles away to a depot in the Russian town of Tikhoretsk for use in Ukraine.

The flow of munitions that the US and South Korea say have included hundreds of thousands of artillery shells could grow far greater in importance as divisions in the US Congress and European Union over military aid threaten Kyiv’s ability to repel Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion. “Pyongyang’s decision to deliver munitions at scale once again underscores the grave threat that North Korea poses to international security, this time feeding a conflagration on European soil that has already cost the lives of tens of thousands of

The activity appears to have picked up since early October, when the US accused North Korea of sending munitions to Russia. The White House provided imagery it said showed weapons later being delivered thousands of miles away to a depot in the Russian town of Tikhoretsk for use in Ukraine.

Ukrainians and consumed tens of billions of dollars in Western military support,” according to a report by the Royal United Services Institute, a UK security think tank. Pyongyang, which has been banned from arms sales for about 15 years, has repeatedly rejected accusations it is supplying Russia. Analysis of the satellite data suggests otherwise. In a recent example, an image from December 9 seems to

heartfelt imposition of this will be the transport sector. And there are a lot of applications waiting to be tried in this sector—the seamless tollways, the online registrations, single ticketing for motor violations, digital payments. Immediate showcase of this government for digitalization will be the transport sector. It can be done easily and quickly. Political will is the key. Transport completion deadlines: We, the public will not mind who takes credit for this whether it is the “Build, Build, Build” program of the previous administration or the current one’s. But it will matter if deadlines of these projects are again extended. Let us then have defined deadlines, whether these are the airports, the terminals, subways, railways and ports. The list does not end here. As soon as I started listing down my thoughts, I realized that there are more on the table to wish for—tricycles modernization, more pedestrian and bike lanes, commuter safety, etc. And just like our own personal experiences with doing New Year’s resolutions of our own, we can list as many as we want but what will matter will be the attitude of change, even if it will only lead to a few victories. And that will be my wish for this 2024; that this attitude of change will be in all of us on our journey—from the drivers, operators, builders, regulators, commuters, passengers and everyone else. That alone is worth hoping for this 2024. The author may be reached: thomas_orbos@ sloan.mit.edu

show the Russian container ship Angara, sanctioned by the US, in Najin’s port unloading cargo while containers from North Korea await loading at an adjacent pier. “Satellite imagery shows that round trips of cargo vessels between Najin, North Korea, and Dunay, Russia, have continued unabatedly despite additional US sanctions and widespread reporting on this activity in the past few months,” said Jaewoo Shin, an analyst at the Open Nuclear Network in Vienna. Shin said that while the nature of the cargo can’t be confirmed with available imagery, the number of round trips and transferred containers suggest a significant and ongoing exchange, possibly including weapons and other military supplies. As the North Korea-Russia trade picks up, the flow of US military aid to Kyiv has been increasingly under See “Ghost” A19

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India’s crackdown on financial risks puts industry on watch By Preeti Singh, Saikat Das & Advait Palepu

week after India barred lenders from investing in alternative investment funds that hold stakes in their borrowers, the market is counting the cost.

The Reserve Bank of India said the move is designed to prevent an unstable build up of assets in the country’s financial system. But, lawyers and analysts say alternative investment fund (AIF) managers could see costs ramp up and the rules will make it harder to raise cash in the future. “This is a sledge hammer to the industry,” said Vinod Joseph, partner at Economic Laws Practice, a legal firm. The top seven shadow lenders in the country had invested around $1.35 billion in these so-called AIFs, according to their most recent annual reports. Shares of these firms dived after the new rules, which directed existing investments to either be liquidated in 30 days or for lenders to provision their investment in the AIFs. The RBI’s move added to jitters in the market. Sentiment was already shaken after the central bank last month imposed stricter rules to stem the relentless rise in risky consumer loans, actions called “draconian” by one analyst. Its report on financial stability risks is set to be released this week. RBI has been concerned about round-tripping of potentially bad loans, rise of unsecured lending and heavier linkages between AIFs and regulated entities, all of which can “potentially build up stress in the financial sector,” said Abizer Diwanji, financial services leader at Ernst & Young India.

Risks

The Securities & Exchange Board of India, the country’s capital markets regulator, had identified several dozen cases involving billions of dollars where AIFs were being used to get around rules, Ananth Narayan, a whole-time member at SEBI, told Bloomberg News. The new rules are coming at a time when India’s economy and financial system have remained resilient despite global headwinds of geopolitical tensions, elevated interest rates and inflation. Soured-debt ratios have narrowed to their lowest in a decade, with banks and shadow lenders boasting strong balance sheets as they reap gains from the rising demand for credit. Still, “seeds of vulnerability often get sown during good times when risks tend to get overlooked”, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das wrote in the financial stability report in December. “We do not wait for the house to catch fire and then act,” Das said separately while presenting the country’s monetary policy earlier this month. “Prudence at all times

Ghost . . .

continued from A18

threat, with the Pentagon saying it will run out of money to replace weapons sent to Ukraine by Dec. 30 unless Congress approves additional funding. That’s unlikely now, with most lawmakers out of Washington for the year-end holidays. With an effective stalemate on the battlefield, the Kremlin is increasingly confident Russia can consolidate its control over occupied regions of eastern and southern Ukraine and wait for international support for Ukraine to erode. Putin said this month that “there’ll be peace when we achieve our goals.” For many US partners, the flagging support for Ukraine is tied in part to a much-vaunted counteroffensive during the spring and summer that failed to deliver on the high

The top seven shadow lenders in the country had invested around $1.35 billion in these so-called AIFs, according to their most recent annual reports. Shares of these firms dived after the new rules, which directed existing investments to either be liquidated in 30 days or for lenders to provision their investment in the AIFs. should be the guiding philosophy, both for the regulators and the regulated entities.” The regulations are already taking effect. Piramal Enterprises Ltd for example said more than 80 percent of its 38.2 billion rupees ($459 million) investment in AIFs went to debtor companies it had previously given loans to. The firm planned to adjust this amount via capital funds or provisions, the firm said in a filing. Another shadow lender IIFL Finance said 9.1 billion rupees in outstanding investments in AIFs will not be impacted by the RBI rule. However, its housing finance arm will need to liquidate or make provisions for 1.6 billion rupees worth of investments in AIFs, it said in a filing.

Impact

Opinion BusinessMirror

Poverty isn’t really falling, government can do more By IBON Foundation

he last big release of official statistics for the year is sobering and preempts the revelry that, somehow, Filipinos will find a way to have in the closing days of the year.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) released the preliminary 2023 first semester official poverty statistics. The results seem favorable at first glance with the incidence and magnitude of poverty reported to decline from the last reporting year in 2021. That is, until we remember that the country was still suffering the pandemic lockdowns of the Duterte administration in 2021. The reopening of the economy is the main factor in the reported decline between the first semester of 2021 and the same period in 2023. But it has to be stressed that this isn’t a constructive action to reduce poverty and is just a passive lowering of restrictions on economic activity that were too harsh and too long to begin with. Poverty only seems lower because it’s compared to when the economy was locked down. Compared to the first semester of 2018, there are three million more poor Filipinos or 472,000 more poor families – even by the unrealistically low poverty line of just P91 per person per day. This

is a better indicator of the structural direction that poverty is taking given the preferred obsolete “free market” policy thrusts of consecutive administrations. While falling poverty should always be taken as good news, policymaking shouldn’t be driven by what’s good for economic propaganda. After a year-and-a-half already of the economy reopening, and despite growth hyped as among the fastest in Asia, the government should be asking why poverty is still above pre-pandemic levels. Like New Year’s resolutions, aspirational targets always give an endorphin rush especially for Filipinos who are always portrayed as a hopeful lot. The Marcos administration is playing that game and audaciously still declared its goal of single-digit poverty by 2028. Poverty incidence even according to the much too low poverty threshold will not be reduced to single-digit levels by 2028. The rate of poverty reduction from reopening after 2021

is already at an artificially fast pace but even this isn’t fast enough – what more how poverty incidence actually increased between 2018 and 2023. Poverty is stubborn from high disguised joblessness and because there is so much informality in the economy. It’s also important to stress how the first semester poverty results confirm the incorrectness of using headline unemployment figures to claim a “bright jobs market,” as the government is so insistent on saying. The incidence and magnitude of poverty increased between the first semester of 2018 and the first semester of 2023 despite unemployment falling from some 5.4% to 4.6% over that same period. Substantial amounts of cash assistance will provide momentary relief for poor families and can reduce officially reported poverty. This is the biggest achievement of the likes of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), which has grown 20fold from P5 billion in 2009 to P103 billion this year. That kind of statistical improvement in poverty figures is artificial though and sustainable poverty reduction comes from more jobs and better incomes for every Filipino. This can only come from structural transformation of the economy with

Houthi attacks and US strikes heighten risk of wider Middle East war By Iain Marlow

S strikes on targets in Iraq and fresh attacks by Houthi militants on shipping in the Red Sea provided the latest warning signs that the war in Gaza risks expanding into a wider conflict destabilizing the Middle East.

from Anup Roy and Adam Haigh /Bloomberg

The Pentagon said late Monday that its forces launched strikes on three installations in Iraq linked to Kataib Hezbollah. Washington said the Iraqi insurgent group that’s backed by Iran was behind an attack that injured three US personnel, leaving one in critical condition. “While we do not seek to escalate conflict in the region, we are committed and fully prepared to take further necessary measures to protect our people and our facilities,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement. He called it a “necessary and proportionate” response. Then on Tuesday, Yemen-based Houthi rebels, also backed by Iran, renewed their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. MSC Mediterranean Shipping Co. confirmed that the container ship MSC United VIII was hit while en route to Pakistan. It said no injuries were reported. And US Central Command said in a social media posting on X that a US destroyer and F/A-18 fighter jets shot down 12 attack drones, three anti-ship ballistic missiles and two land attack cruise missiles fired by the Houthis over the Southern Red Sea on Tuesday. It said there was no damage to ships or reported injuries. The US and a number of other nations have formed a maritime

task force to respond to the Red Sea attacks. With that assurance, A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S, the world’s second-largest container line, said over the weekend that it was preparing to resume shipping through the sea. Still, oil rose Tuesday as tensions remained high over the shipping disruptions. Although Iran has denied helping militants attack commercial ships, the Islamic Republic has vowed that Israel will pay a price for an airstrike in Syria on Monday that killed a senior commander of its Revolutionary Guard. “Clearly, the longer the IsraeliHamas war goes on with this sort of kinetic intensity, the more likely there would be some escalation,” said Aaron David Miller, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a former US official who has advised secretaries of state on the Middle East. The number of non-state groups, as well as the unpredictability of both Israeli military operations and Iran’s potential responses, makes it difficult to forecast when specific incidents might flare up into a broader escalation. But Miller said the US would probably be forced to act more assertively if a regional group kills US service members. “If we’re attacked

expectations of allies. While satellite imagery shows steady activity at Najin, the vessels docking there appear to have turned off international maritime transponders that give their location, effectively turning them into ghost ships as they make the relatively short trip between Najin and Dunay—also written as Dunai—about 180 kilometers (110 miles) away. The Central Intelligence Agency identified the port as a Soviet submarine base during the Cold War, according to a document obtained by RUSI, the UK think tank. RUSI’s October report analyzed dozens of high-resolution images that it concluded showed a few cargo vessels repeatedly making the trip between Najin and Dunay, likely packed with North Korean arms that are then sent across Russia. That trade appears to have continued in the time since the report

was published, according to Joseph Byrne, a research fellow at RUSI and co-author of the report. “There has been a continuation of deliveries by these vessels,” he said, adding there is “a continuation of the unloading of boxes loaded in Russia and delivered to North Korea and then the loading of containers that have seemingly comes down from rail cars from other places in North Korea to apparently be shipped back to Russian military facilities.” South Korea’s National Intelligence Service told lawmakers in November there had been about 10 shipments of weapons from North Korea to Russia since August, likely encompassing more than 1 million rounds of artillery. North Korea holds some of the world’s largest stores of munitions, much of it interoperable with weapons Russia has on the front lines.

“About six weeks later, I’ve seen no signs of the transfer rate slowing down — so for all we know that’s another half million shells,” said weapons expert Joost Oliemans, who coauthored the book The Armed Forces of North Korea. Oliemans said he’s identified four types of munitions that have been a part of recent deliveries: 120 millimeter mortars, 122mm and 152 mm artillery shells and 122 mm rockets based on an analysis of what is making its way to the front lines. “The situation on the battlefield is impacted” by those deliveries, he said. “Rather than seeing a notable change in tactics or swaths of land suddenly changing hands, it will allow Russia to keep up much higher pressure for longer on Ukrainian forces.” An extra one million shells means about 2,700 rounds more per day Russia could fire at Ukraine,

SEBI’s Narayan said that any circumvention of financial rules by large lenders need to be addressed without imposing lopsided restrictions on those who comply. There can be unintended consequences however. It’s highly unlikely that lenders can find buyers for their stakes in the next 30 days, which would lead to losses as they make full provisions and take mark-to-market losses, EY’s Diwanji said. Some of these entities, especially the shadow lenders, may have to raise fresh funds after their capital gets depleted by the provisioning, he added. Future fundraising and deployment could however be impacted as banks and shadow lenders figure out how to avoid conflicts with their AIFs’ investments, according to Joseph, the partner at Economic Laws Practice. Already, some fund managers are pushing back and want the rules to be modified. These provisions “should be applicable to only investments in companies where the end use is towards refinancing existing debt and not towards growth,” said Eshwar Karra, chief executive officer at Kotak Strategic Situations Fund. With assistance

Thursday, December 28, 2023 A19

“Clearly, the longer the IsraeliHamas war goes on with this sort of kinetic intensity, the more likely there would be some escalation,” said Aaron David Miller, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a former US official who has advised secretaries of state on the Middle East.

directly and Americans die, then there’s going to have to be a much, much heavier response,” he said. The attacks, and other developments around the region, highlight an increasingly difficult balancing act for the Biden administration, which is trying to support Israel in its battle against the militant group Hamas, which killed 1,200 Israelis on Oct. 7 and took more than 200 hostages. Hamas has been designated a terrorist organization by the US and the European Union. The US has deployed aircraft carrier strike groups in an effort to deter Iran-backed forces in the region from striking Israel as it pursues an increasingly deadly ground war in densely populated urban areas in Gaza. But US officials also have put pressure on Israel to wind down its high-intensity operations in Gaza, which have killed about 20,000, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Washington visit

Filipino industrialization astride modernized agriculture. Poverty is paradoxically helpful for politicians and their populist propaganda. The default mode of most Filipinos is of a government absent from economic activity so their livelihoods are their personal responsibility. In this context, amid the chronic poverty that inevitably accompanies such an economy, politicians twist government welfare programs as patronage given benevolently as charity by caring leaders. The current administration is very much in this mold. But poverty persists not because there aren’t enough welfare programs but because the economy isn’t creating enough jobs and incomes for most Filipinos. While our economic managers insist on obsolete “free market” economics because this is their dogma, many of our politicians likely prefer their constituents to be poor because the dependence this creates helps keep them in power. Instituting a radical rethink of the country’s economics and politics in government is long overdue.

IBON Foundation, Inc. is an independent development institution established in 1978 that provides research, education, publications, information work and advocacy support on socioeconomic issues.

Washington with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. The discussions, according to a White House official, involved the war itself, efforts to release the hostages in Gaza, limiting civilian casualties and planning a future for the region. The conversation regarding the conflict centered on Israeli forces shifting their focus to the main Hamas targets, the official said. Separately, President Joe Biden spoke with the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, on efforts to gain the release of hostages being held in Gaza and to bolster humanitarian assistance to the territory, the White House said Tuesday evening. For Israeli officials worried about Hezbollah militants in neighboring Lebanon and other groups in the region, the current conflict already looks like the wider war the US says it’s trying to prevent. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said in the Knesset that Israel was in the midst of a “multi-front war,” having already been attacked from seven different arenas — Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, Iraq, Yemen and Iran. “We have already taken action against six of these seven, and I will say now in the clearest manner possible, that anyone who takes action against us will become a potential target,” he told the foreign affairs and defense committee. “There will be no immunity for anyone.” With as-

Israel’s Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer met Tuesday in

sistance from Gwen Ackerman and Justin Sink/ Bloomberg

which is already having trouble procuring artillery and may face more difficulty if aid from the US isn’t secured. “How much exactly North Korea will be able to deliver is anyone’s guess,” Oliemans said, adding that deliveries will likely slow down once inventories become depleted, with North Korea’s manufacturing capabilities insufficient to keep up with the pace of demand. Russia’s importance to North Korea had waned after the end of the Cold War, with China becoming Pyongyang’s biggest benefactor. Trade between Russia and North Korea slowed to a trickle when Kim shut the borders at the start of the pandemic. But as Covid protections eased, and international sanctions hung over Moscow and Pyongyang, the two rekindled ties, finding they each had something the other wanted and

could trade without real repercussions from the outside world. The assistance Kim receives from Russia is easing the pressure of years of sanctions over his increasing nuclear arsenal and potentially making the already-tense situation on the Korean Peninsula worse. “With both Kim and Putin recognizing the utility and benefits of partnership, cooperation is likely to continue between North Korea and Russia into next year,” said Soo Kim, a former Korea analyst at the Central Intelligence Agency, who now works at US-based management consulting firm LMI. “The give-and-take between the two countries is unlikely to be stopped so long as the international consequences—sanctions, reputational shaming—remain symbolic and largely insufficient to deter bad behavior,” she said. With assistance from Kevin Varley /Bloomberg

A20 Thursday, December 28, 2023

FFW: AMEND HOUSE BILL ON MANAGING AI IN WORKPLACE By Patrick V. Miguel

House bill seeking to regulate the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace needs to be amended, a labor group leader said on Wednesday. Federation of Free Workers (FFW) President Atty. Sonny Matula explained that House Bill No. 9448“may give a lower safety net than existing provision,” citing existing laws under Article 283 of the Labor Code of the Philippines. Article 283 authorizes an employer to terminate an employee due “to the installation of labor-saving devices.” “Under our jurisdiction, the installation of these devices is a management prerogative, and the courts will not interfere with its exercise in the absence of abuse of discretion, arbitrariness, or maliciousness on the part of management,” Matula told the BusinessMirror. House Bill 9448 or the Protection of Labor Against Artificial Intelligence Automation Act seeks to address the “fear that the use of AI will result in displacement by substituting human workers who will then lose their jobs.” The bill will enforce employers to use AI in a“legally compliant manner” through an AI governance policy, with guidelines on its adoption and usage, collection and storage of data. Moreover, the bill prohibits the use of AI to“replace human workers resulting in displacement, loss of security of tenure, diminution of existing salaries or benefits and unemployment” unless an“equivalent alternative employment opportunity for affected human workers is made available.” In the event of a “valid retrenchment,” employers may justify their decision before the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)

through a written report. Matula highlighted the issues on retrenchment, saying that AI is “not a ground for retrenchment” but an authorized cause under Article 283. He added, retrenchment gives a lower separation pay than installation of labor saving devices. “The introduction of AI is not a valid ground for retrenchment but covered by institutions of ‘new methods or more efficient machinery, or of automation,’”he explained.“Such is technically a ground for termination of employment by reason of installation of labor-saving devices.” The bill was filed by Quezon City Rep. Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde earlier in November. AI is more likely to augment than destroy jobs through automating tasks instead of taking over a role entirely, according to a study the International Labour Organization (ILO) discovered in August. (Related story: https:// businessmirror.com. ph/2023/08/23/ai-likely-to-augment-not-destroy-jobs-ilo/) According to the study “Generative AI and Jobs: A global analysis of potential effects on job quantity and quality,” the use of AI “depends” on how the diffusion of AI is managed through certain policies. The study states: “Without proper policies in place, there is a risk that only some of the well-positioned countries and market participants will be able to harness the benefits of the transition, while the costs to affected workers could be brutal.” “It is humans that are behind the decision to incorporate such technologies and it is humans that need to guide the transition process,” the authors noted.

Govt vows ‘sufficient’ PUVs despite Dec. 31 deadline

By Lorenz S. Marasigan

@lorenzmarasigan

HE government on Wednesday said it will ensure that there will be a “sufficient” supply of public utility vehicles (PUVs) in 2024, even as operators and drivers are set to have their franchises revoked. In a statement, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), the Office of Transportation Cooperatives (OTC) and other government agencies, are laying out “necessary measures” in preparation for the full implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) after the December 31, 2023 deadline for consolidation. “Focus of LTFRB under the PUVMP is the welfare of commuters so that come January 15, 2024, sufficient number of PUVs are expected to continue plying their routes, considering the ongoing application for consolidation of numerous transport groups with LTFRB and OTC, trying to beat the deadline,” the DOTr said. President Marcos Jr. earlier di-

rected the DOTr to expedite the implementation of the PUVMP, staying firm with a December 31 deadline for industry consolidation. Those who fail to consolidate into cooperatives or corporations will have their franchises revoked, according to the DOTr. Transport groups Piston and Manibela have mounted transport holidays throughout the year to protest against the consolidation. Piston also filed for a temporary restraining order against the PUVMP before the Supreme Court. The Passenger Forum (TPF) even cautioned the government that it in itself will effectively implement a nationwide “strike” in 2024 should it push through with the deadline, given the acute lack of transport units that will remain on the road. However, t he gover nment

COMMUTERS are stranded in Quezon City in this December 14, 2023 file photo, following the transport strike initiated by PISTON to protest the December 31 deadline for franchise consolidation and the phaseout of traditional jeepneys. NONOY LACZA

remained firm with the deadline. Now, it is moving to the “next phase of the program—route rationalization,” wherein LGUs will continue to assist LTFRB in planning the local routes according to the passenger demand and required PUV units. These LGUs will also assist the LTFRB and DOTr after the December 31, 2023 deadline in the implementation of PUVMP in their jurisdiction, particularly ensuring the adequate supply of PUV services. “After December 31, 2023, all consolidated units will continue

to operate on their existing routes and wil be allowed to apply for Special Permits on routes without consolidation pursuant to LTFRB MC No. 2023-052. “Data shows that in the National Capital Region alone, all major routes or thoroughfares are being operated by consolidated transport groups; while secondary routes without consolidated entities will be served by other modes of Public Transport,” the DOTr said. The LTFRB said it will provide updated data on the nationwide consolidation efforts on December. 29.

BARMM okays ₧98.4-B ’24 budget, rushes reso on unused 2023 funds By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox Mindanao Bureau Chief

AVAO CITY—The Bangsamoro Parliament on Wednesday unanimously approved the P98.4-billion budget for next year as it also rushed a resolution to authorize the autonomous government to still get hold of the unspent funds this year. The approval of both bills of the regional government’s general appropriations and the extended utilization of the unspent funds this year were described as swift although the Bangsamoro Information Office said the deliberations were “extensive just before the year ends.” “The swift approval, certified as urgent by Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim, [makes] it the fastest deliberation since the interim government’s transition in 2019,” the information office said. It said the Committee on Finance, Budget, and Management “thoroughly scrutinized” budget proposals of all ministries, agencies, and offices “leading to unanimous parliamentary approval, including increased allocations for various ministries.” Next year’s budget reflects a substantial 15.36-percent increase compared to the current year’s budget of P85.3 billion, if added. It said the 2024 budget would “still prioritize education with P30.2 billion, infrastructure with P17.7 billion, and health with P6.65 billion.” “These sectors are expected to receive a boost to enhance the overall well-being and development of the region,” it said. The other agencies in the top 10 budgeted offices were the following: Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) P4,831,206,302; Office of the Chief Minister (OCM) P3,884,118,344; Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) P3,702,389,285; Ministry of Interior and Local Government (MILG)

P2,359,893,235; Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (Mafar) P1,913,541,274; Ministry of Human Settlements and Development (MHSD) P1,132,845,944; and Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (Menre) P834,206,301. Minister Ubaida Pacasem of Finance, Budget, and Management said the budget would be funded from the P70.5 billion from the Annual Block Grant as outlined in the 2024 National Expenditure Program; P5.08 billion from shares in national taxes collected within the BARMM as provided in the National Expediture Program; P5 billion for the Special Development Fund; P471 million from the projected regional taxes; and P17.3 billion from the declared savings from prior years. Meanwhile, in another swift move to get hold of unused funds from this year’s appropriation and from the national government’s Special Development Fund (SDF), the BTA or its parliament approved Bill Nos. 265 and 266, which granted the Bangsamoro government “an extension for the utilization of the 2023 budget and until December 2024.” Government Bill No. 265, which received a 46-1-1 vote, ensures the continued validity of the Special Development Fund for 2020–2023. The BARMM did not say how much was unspent or unused from both funds, but it disclosed that “as stated in the Bangsamoro Organic Law, the national government will grant the Bangsamoro government an SDF of P50 billion over a 10-year period for the rebuilding, rehabilitation, and development of its conflictaffected communities in the region.” The information office said the bill “emphasizes that all appropriations will be available for release and obligation until December 31, 2024, and available for disbursement until fully expended.” Unspent and undisbursed funds will be reverted to the Bangsamoro Treasury and allocated to the Special Fund for reappropriation.

CRUISE TRAINING The Republic of Korea Navy's helicopter training ship, ROKS Hansando (ATH-81), received a warm welcome from the Philippine Navy at Pier 15 in Manila on Wednesday (December 27, 2023). Scheduled for its 2023 ROKN Cruise Training in Manila from December 27 to January 3, 2024, this event will see the active participation of guests from the Filipino Navy team. NONIE REYES

PRRD still top-of-mind senatorial bet–survey

ORMER President Rodrigo Roa Duterte emerged as the top-of-mind candidate in the senatorial race, according to the latest results from the PAHAYAG End of Year survey, conducted from November 29 to December 4, 2023. Duterte obtained a significant voting predisposition of 48 percent and an impressive trust rating of 59 percent, according to a press statement on the survey. Following closely is ACT-CIS Representative Erwin Tulfo, with a 44-percent voting predisposition and a parallel 44-percent trust rating. Tulfo’s older brother, broadcaster Raffy Tulfo, placed No. 2 in the 2022 Senate race despite being

a neophyte politician. Dr. Willie Ong, the former vice-presidential candidate and cardiologist, secured a substantial 43-percent voting predisposition and a 50-percent trust rating. It was noted that Erwin Tulfo experienced a drop in support in Mindanao, sliding from 50 percent to 44 percent. Likewise, Dr. Willie Ong witnessed a decline in trust in Mindanao, from 50 percent to 42 percent, along with a decrease in support from 44 percent to 39 percent. Reelectionist Senators Christopher Bong Go (40 percent), Imee R. Marcos (38 percent), and Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa (36 percent) are also notable figures in the early

electoral landscape. The National Capital Region (NCR) sees an increase in voting predisposition for Go, rising from 29 percent to 38 percent; and for Marcos, climbing from 35 percent to 41 percent. Other prominent figures in the survey include former Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto at 33 percent, former Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso at 31 percent, former Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson at 31 percent, and former Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo at 27 percent. Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro stands at 26 percent, and re-electionist Senator Pilar Juliana “Pia” Cayetano at 25 percent.

PAHAYAG 2023 End of the Year Survey (P-EOY2023), conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc., is an independent and non-commissioned survey. The survey period was from November 29 to December 04, 2023 using purposive sampling composed of 1,500 respondents randomly drawn from the market research panel of over 200,000 Filipinos maintained by the Singapore office of PureSpectrum, a US-based panel marketplace with multinational presence. The sample was restricted to registered Filipino voters maintained by PureSpectrum, a US-based panel marketplace with a multinational presence.

Companies BusinessMirror

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Upper Wawa Dam project on track, to start water supply by end 2025

By Jonathan L. Mayuga

@jonlmayuga

HE Upper Wawa Dam, the second phase of the Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project, is making significant progress and is on track to begin commercial operations by the end of 2025, the proponents said on Wednesday. In a statement, Prime Infra-led Wawa JVCo Inc. said overall progress is over 70 percent as of December 2023, with the 85-meter roller-compacted concrete dam to be finished

in a few months, followed by the completion of the rest of the plant. The project is the largest privately-led water supply infrastructure project in the country’s history.

Once in operation, the dam will have a yearlong water supply capacity of over 700 million liters per day (MLD), benefiting residents of the greater Metro Manila area, including the province of Rizal. Currently, Metro Manila, including parts of Rizal and Cavite, rely on raw water supply coming from Angat. Maynilad Water and Manila Water also extract water from Laguna de Bay to augment the supply from Angat, a 60-yearold dam that is the source of more than 90 percent of water supply to over 12 million water consumers in Metro Manila and the Greater Manila Area. Apart from providing a reliable water supply source, the Upper Wawa Dam will also help mitigate the pe-

rennial problem of flooding in the downstream areas and localities of the Marikina River, the proponents pointed out. “The exceptional construction pace at Upper Wawa Dam showcases Prime Infra’s commitment to delivering on our commitments in developing water supply infrastructure at this scale. We are pleased that the project continues to be materially ahead of schedule. We take great pride in ensuring that we sustain this pace and do so safely by 2025,” said Prime Infra President and CEO Guillaume Lucci. “The Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project aims to secure sufficient capacity to meet the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System

ACEN arm Belenos inks deal with Asean RE firm Yoma Micro Power By Lorenz S. Marasigan

ing development costs of certain energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.” YMP Telecom Power and YMP Industrial Power are part of the Yoma Micro Power Group, a renewable energy company based in Myanmar. They aim to spur telecom operators, tower companies, commercial entities, and industrial companies towards adopting renewable energy solutions. According to its website, Yoma Micro Power has successfully completed pilots involving telecommunications towers and villages in the Sagaing Region.

At present, ACEN has about 4,500 MW of attributable capacity from owned facilities in the Philippines, Australia, Vietnam, Indonesia and India, with a renewable share of 98 percent, which is among the highest in the region. ACEN’s aspiration is to be the largest listed renewables platform in Southeast Asia, with a goal of reaching 20 GW of renewables capacity by 2030. ACEN is committed to transition the company’s generation portfolio to 100-percent renewable energy by 2025 and to become a net zero greenhouse gas emissions company by 2050.

CEN Corp. said on Wednesday its recently-acquired subsidiary Belenos Energy Corp. has signed a share purchase agreement with Yoma Micro Power (S) Pte. Ltd., an Asean renewable energy company, for the acquisition of YMP Telecom Power Inc. and its affiliate YMP Industrial Power Inc. In a disclosure to the stock exchange, ACEN said it is acquiring 100 percent of the outstanding shares previously held by Yoma Micro Power in the two companies

for “less than 10 percent” of ACEN’s book value. The strategic acquisition is geared towards the development and operation of solar-powered solutions, specifically targeting building and operating solar-powered solutions for telecommunication towers and commercial and industrial solar power solutions in the Philippines. In the same regulatory filing, ACEN said it has also signed a facility and security agreement, providing a credit facility of up to P200 million to YMP Telecom Power “for the purpose of fund-

FLI inaugurates new amenity area in Tanauan residential development

AI adoption in PHL retail still nascent, but Zalora leads way

@lorenzmarasigan

ROPERTY developer Filinvest Land Inc. said it inaugurated the latest amenity area of its Sandia Homes residential development in Tanauan City, Batangas. “The unveiling of our amenity area at Sandia Homes is a testament to our dedication to providing not just homes, but a complete living experience that enhances the well-being of our residents. These amenities are more than just recreational spaces; they are designed to foster a sense of community, promote wellness, and enrich the lives of those who call Sandia Homes their home,” Ethel Balicanta, FLI vice president-brand product head for housing, said. Sandia Homes has picked amenities to serve as focal points for community engagement, offering residents a space to unwind, socialize and stay active within the comfort of their neighborhood. The clubhouse, it noted, provides an environment for gatherings and social events, while the basketball court encourages a healthy lifestyle and camaraderie among neighbors. The playground area is envisioned as a vibrant hub for children to play and explore, fostering growth and development in a safe environment. The swimming pool offers a refreshing escape. VG Cabuag

By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio

HE adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Philippine retail industry is still in a nascent stage, according to a leading official of Southeast Asia’s leading fashion and lifestyle e-commerce player. Nevertheless, Achint Setia, Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer of Zalora, told the BusinessMirror in an email interview that the company has seen a growing adoption and interest over the last year. “Following the e-commerce boom in the Philippines during the Covid-19 pandemic, more local retailers are looking at ways to sustain this growth and stand out from the increasingly competitive e-commerce landscape,” Setia explained. Setia pointed out that current retailers have started to leverage AI to provide a personalized shopping experience through data analytics and targeted marketing. He also observed the adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) into supply chains, which allows for more efficient supply chain management and product deliveries to meet customer’s growing demands for quick deliveries. “At Zalora, we’ve also made use of AI to enhance operational

efficiencies. One of the features powered by TITAN includes automated attribute tagging, which encompasses a wide range of attributes, such as colour, style and occasion—all derived from product images. A s a resu lt, stock keeping units (SKUs) are automatically generated along with detailed product descriptions. This automation not only enhances search accuracy and eliminates hours of manual entry but also elevates the quality assurance of our product offerings,” Setia explained. Zalora, he added, has also implemented AI-powered chatbots, which engage across digital touchpoints. He stressed that the AI’s ability to interpret and automatically respond to conversational prompts not only improves customer service but also increases employee productivity internally. Setia said this is achieved by eliminating the task of addressing frequently-asked questions repeatedly, thus enabling employees to focus on more critical and important matters. “By implementing these across various layers of the ZALOR A ecosystem, spanning production processes—such as manual tasks currently undertaken by teams at the SKU level—to post-purchase journeys, such as the automation

of customer support, we are on our way to achieving comprehensive optimization and efficiency in our operations,” he said. Since the pandemic ended and as reported in their 2022 TRENDER report, Setia said Zalora had observed that consumers in the region are increasingly shifting between reality and virtual landscapes. While they rely on the Internet for inspiration and to shape their opinions, he said they still seek immersive experiences off line. Even as e-commerce surged in the Philippines during the pandemic, Setia said in-store shopping experiences continue to remain popular in the Philippines, as customers frequent these for immediate purchases and quality assurance. “It is t herefore impor tant for brick-and-mortar establishments to create an integrated experience for customers across traditional and online stores, maintaining the efficiency of the customer shopping journey and the quality of products on both fronts. To stand out from competitors, it would help to create a unique and memorable experience for shoppers at the brick-and-mortar, especially as most of these shoppers spend the majority of their time online,” Setia pointed out.

(MWSS) and its concessionaires’ water needs. Phase 1 became operational in record time since October 2022,” Lucci said.

Infra flagship project

The Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project in Rizal is one of the national government’s infrastructure flagship projects that will address water security, specifically in the MWSS service area. The project is the largest water supply dam to be constructed in over 50 years, since Angat Dam was built. It will increase Manila Water Company’s (MWC) capacity by over 30 percent of its current water supply allocation from the Angat Dam of approximately 1,600 MLD. Phase 2 or the Upper Wawa Dam

can deliver over 700 MLD of water by end-2025. The project’s first phase or the Tayabasan Weir has been delivering an initial 80 MLD since it began operations. Together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), WawaJVCo is also implementing a watershed management plan that includes reforestation activities around the site of the Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project covering 1,800 hectares. “In developing this project, we aim to build a legacy by prioritizing environmental sustainability and fostering long-term partnerships with our host communities,” said Prime Infra Market Sector Lead for Water Melvin John Tan, also the president of WawaJVCo.

Globe celebrates non-telco businesses as 2023 ‘wins’

LOBE Telecom Inc. on Wednesday bannered its non-telco businesses, celebrating them as “wins” for the year 2023. Ernest Cu, Globe Group president and CEO, listed the company’s highlights for four of its subsidiaries, namely: STT GDC Philippines, Gogoro Philippines, GCash, and 917 Ventures. He said these companies helped the Globe Group fortify its position as a purveyor of digital solutions in the Philippines. “Despite the challenges we faced, 2023 was another banner year for Globe, as we continued to cement our standing as the foremost digital solutions provider in the Philippines, with an unrivaled ecosystem of products and services that make life better,” Cu said. A joint venture between Globe, Ayala Corp., and ST Telemedia Global Data Centres of Singapore, STT GDC Philippines embarked on aggressive expansion by breaking ground on two major infrastructure projects. This includes the STT Fairview data center campus, set to become the largest interconnected data center in the Philippines, and the STT Cavite 2 project, complementing their enterprise-grade data center in General Trias, Cavite. Meanwhile, Gogoro Philippines, a collaboration between Globe’s 917Ventures, Ayala, and Gogoro

Taiwan, launched its electric mobility and battery-swapping technology in Metro Manila. This initiative aims to provide sustainable transport option for the congested city roads in Metro Manila. GCash, Cu said, expanded its global footprint by offering its services to Filipinos in several countries, including Japan, the United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, Canada, and the US. The app also introduced Global Pay, allowing users to make QR-based payments in 17 countries. Lastly, 917Ventures, the corporate venture builder under Globe Group, introduced new startups in various sectors: Housify, a proptech platform for real estate brokers, and PetPal, a digital pet care solutions provider. Cu said going into 2024, the Globe Group is set to “sustain its changemaking and trendsetting pace to bring even more life-enabling digital solutions to Filipinos here and abroad.” “Our wins in 2023 fuel our momentum going into the new year, as we continue to innovate to drive digital transformation in the country,” he added. As of the first nine months of 2023, Globe’s non-telco revenues grew by 44 percent to P4.1 billion from P2.8 billion in the same period in 2022. Lorenz S. Marasigan

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Companies BusinessMirror

MVP set to become SPNEC chair, CEO after MGreen investment

By VG Cabuag

corporate secretary. MGreen is the renewable energy development arm of Meralco Powergen Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Manila Electric Co., the country’s largest private sector electric distribution utility company. SPNEC, meanwhile, is the developer of a planned 3.5 GW solar and 4.5 GWh battery project centered in Nueva Ecija, which will be the world’s largest single contracted solar project. SPNEC is currently majority-owned by Leviste’s Solar Philippines, prior to MGreen’s entry. Prior to the transaction, Solar Philippines sold 1.6 billion secondary shares of SPNEC for P2 billion to Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and entered into an option agreement to sell up to 7.4 billion secondary shares for up

@villygc

USINESSMAN Manuel V. Pangilinan is set to become chairman of SP New Energy Corp. (SPNEC), after MGen Renewable Energy (MGreen) completes its P15.9-billion investment in the solar energy firm founded by Leandro Leviste.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, SPNEC said MGreen made its balance payment of P8.9 billion to complete the acquisition. As a result, MGreen will own 15.7 billion common shares and 19.4 billion preferred shares in SPNEC, translating to a total voting interest of 50.5 percent. SPNEC’s board of directors also approved the election of Pang-

ilinan as its chairman, president and CEO, while Leviste will serve as SPNEC’s vice chairman. The company also appointed Amanda Roselle A. Bengson as director, chief compliance officer, and corporate secretary; Pedro Emilio O. Roxas as independent director; Dominador M. Camu Jr. as COO; Anthony Matthew N. Co as assistant treasurer; and Jo Marianni P. Ocampo as assistant

to P9.25 billion. Based on 50.1 billion shares outstanding, this would value SPNEC at P63 billion. The estimated total investment for the company’s planned Nueva Ecija solar project has been pegged at around P200 billion. “This will be one of the largest solar projects not just in Asia, but in the world,” Pangilinan said. “It’s a big project. It has attracted a lot of interest from foreign investors because it’s big. It’s transformative for the Philippines,” he said. “All of us shareholders are extremely fortunate for this opportunity. We are optimistic that becoming the newest member of the MVP group of companies will help SPNEC grow even beyond what we have planned, for the benefit of all shareholders and other stakeholders,” Leviste said.

MUTUAL FUNDS

December 27, 2023

NAV

One Year Three Year

Five Year

Y-T-D

per share Return*

Return

Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a

Damosa Land completes, to turn over 177 sold units of Ameria in Q1

EGIONAL real estate company Damosa Land Inc. (DLI), announced the completion of its township project, Ameria, and the turnover of its 177 units sold by the first quarter of 2024. This is deemed good news for future residents this holiday season as they look forwardto celebrate the New Year with a bang at their brand-new homes. The developer, likewise, unveiled the initial phase of its clubhouse, featuring a range of amenities such as a multipurpose hall, playground, and a half olympicsize swimming pool. Such facility is expected to be fully operational in February 2024. Since Ameria is nestled within the Agriya community in Panabo, Davao del Norte, agriculture is at the core of this community: every homeowner will be oriented with the basics of cultivating their “mini farm” that can yield fresh produce for their own consumption and serve as the seedbed of experiential learning for the family. Making this possible are the generous lot offering and wideopen spaces for each unit. Ameria also boasts of other developments such as open parks, community garden patches, and

landscaped setback from the main road. “Damosa Land is dedicated to creating havens where cherished memories are made, and what better time for this to come to fruition than during the magical Christmas season. We take pride in providing a new sanctuary for happy families and individuals to celebrate life’s most special moments,” DLI President Ricardo “Cary” Lagdameo said. Welcoming the new development, Julius Macalino, a tenant living with his wife and two kids at Ameria, noted: “Having envisioned this home in my dreams and now witnessing it come true is, without a doubt, the most exceptional Christmas gift I could ever receive. It’s the realization of a cherished dream, bringing profound joy and gratitude during this festive season.” Another resident, Eric So, who also lives with his wife and two children, also shared their new home experience, “We feel that this community is perfect for our family. On top of the open spaces, we were also given a plant box and gardening kit, which we gave to our kids to teach them patience in tending to their plants and harvesting the fruits of their hard work!” Roderick L. Abad

212.45

-2.49%

-3.32%

-0.25%

1.88%

9.68%

3.2%

0.45%

1.73%

7.77% -2.06%

ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 2.9782

2.75%

-2.01%

-5.19%

Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.6953

1.37%

-4.99%

-4.86% n.a

First Metro Consumer Fund, Inc. -a

-5.84%

-5.24% n.a

-3.56%

-2.29%

-2.36%

0.06%

0.6255

-3.61%

First Metro Save and Learn Equity Fund, Inc. -a 4.65310.51%

-0.16%

First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.695-0.57%

-3.28% n.a n.a

MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a

-6.59% n.a

84.34

12.74%

-5.97%

PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a 43.2571

0.51%

-2.91%

-2.51% n.a

0.16%

451.36

1.91%

-2.91%

-2.53%

-0.17%

1.57%

Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a

1.1964

4.27%

0.61%

-0.9% n.a

1.81%

Philequity Fund, Inc. -a

2.22%

-1.06%

-1.52%

1.6%

Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.87343.36%

-1.73% n.a n.a

2.9%

4.5458

1.48%

-2.04%

-1.69%

1.44%

1.12%

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

756.36

1.36%

-2.21%

-1.76%

1.47%

0.99%

Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a 0.6918

3.49%

-1.65%

-4.21% n.a

2.63%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.3789

0.72%

-2.64%

-3.55%

-0.29%

Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Stock Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.8578 1.05%

-2.52%

-2.07% n.a

3.1057

1.01%

-2.47%

-2.33%

0.8%

-0.87%

1.66%

Philequity PSE Index Fund, Inc. -a

United Fund, Inc. -a

2.17% -0.57%

11.98%

Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a 33.85

0.17% 0.69%

0.38%

Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) COL Equity Index Unitized Mutual Fund, Inc. -a 1.06381.08% n.a n.a n.a

0.72%

COL Strategic Growth Equity Unitized Mutual Fund, Inc. -a,2 1.0087 n.a n.a n.a n.a n.a Philequity Alpha One Fund, Inc. -a

1.01

Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a

918.12

-2.1%

-2.43% n.a n.a

-3.48%

1.31% n.a n.a n.a

0.94%

Exchange Traded Fund (shares) First Metro Phil. Equity Exchange Traded Fund, Inc. -a,c102.72051.96% -1.81%

-1.45%

2.15%

1.58%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) ATRAM AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b

$0.8086

-4.96%

-11.94%

-2.47%

-1.64%

Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.6437

15.57%

-0.31%

8.55% n.a

-5.09% 15.43%

Balanced Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ATRAM Dynamic Allocation Fund, Inc. -a

1.522

4.06%

-3.03%

-1.6%

-1.32%

2.51%

ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 2.2314

6.63%

-0.92%

0.29%

0.63%

5.99%

First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 2.5047

0.21%

-1.76%

-0.22%

-0.64%

First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.1897

-0.99%

-1.68% n.a n.a

-0.03%

-1.96% NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a

1.9421

-0.07%

-0.51%

1.07%

1.72%

PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a

3.5753

3.85%

-2.07%

0.27%

0.93%

3.93%

Philam Fund, Inc. -a

15.6467

2.97%

-2.75%

-0.3%

0.57%

3.35%

Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a

2.0382

2.72%

-1.06%

-0.29%

1.28%

2.6%

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.4153

2.79%

-1.68%

-1.28%

0.14%

Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.9059

0.39%

-0.33% n.a

3.07%

3.33%

2.92%

2.57%

Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2028, Inc. -a 0.942 3.12%

-2.8% n.a n.a

2.93%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a 0.85162.27%

-3.81% n.a n.a

1.91%

Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a 0.83041.39%

-4.08% n.a n.a

0.96%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. -a $0.03323

2.4%

-5.33%

-1.16%

0.24%

PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b$0.8951 -0.92%

-7.84%

-2.84%

-1%

6.56%

2.56%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $4.2542

10.3%

-1.7%

5.24%

2.9%

10.62%

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a $1.0347

5.87%

-3.76%

1.65% n.a

6.49%

Bond Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ALFM Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a 390.27

3.39%

1.7%

2.59%

2.23%

3.24%

ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a

1.9082

1.88%

0.15%

0.53%

0.03%

1.78%

Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a

3.3262

3.43%

1.16%

2.3%

3.76%

3.66%

Ekklesia Mutual Fund, Inc. -a 2.2827

4.82%

-0.21%

1.38%

1.37%

4.45%

First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a 2.4584 Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a

4.3057

2.66%

0.1%

2.17%

3.02%

-2.4%

1.89%

0.91%

1.22%

Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a

1.3733

3.85%

1.33%

3.06%

1.77%

4.08%

Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a

4.0348

4.17%

0.41%

2.85%

1.64%

4.29%

Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a

3.28%

0.33%

3.3% n.a

3.24%

1.0495

Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a

1.7692

3.3124

5.14%

1.18%

3.7%

2.2%

4.3%

0.38%

2.84%

1.53%

4.33%

2.81%

5.3%

Corporate Debt Vehicle (units) ATRAM Unitized Corporate Debt Vehicle, Inc. -a,3

1.0061 n.a n.a n.a n.a n.a

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) ALFM Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $494.73

3.06%

0.76%

2.53%

ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a Є213.87

1.94%

-0.81%

0.12%

0.85%

ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b$1.04082.71% -6.64%

-1.54%

0.16%

First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.0248

4.2%

-2.31%

-0.08% n.a

PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc. -b$0.8558

-1.33%

-7.83%

-1.6%

-3.04%

-4.91%

Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a

$2.3095

5.81%

-3.05%

1.24%

1.95%

5.94%

1.52%

-0.8%

1.33%

1.6%

-4.36%

-0.36%

Philequity Dollar Income Fund, Inc. -a $0.0608954

Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $2.8217

3.04% 3.11%

0.65%

4.64%

3.68%

Money Market Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 136.78

2.73%

1.77%

2.51%

2.04%

2.65%

First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 1.1076 3.22%

1.87% n.a n.a

Sun Life Prosperity Peso Starter Fund, Inc. -a 1.37492.79%

2.44%

1.99%

2.02%

3.17%

2.73%

Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 104.48

4.08% n.a n.a n.a

3.99%

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Starter Fund, Inc. -a $1.0964

2.52%

1.38%

1.54% n.a

2.54%

Feeder Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund, Inc. -a 43.19271.46% n.a n.a n.a Sun Life Prosperity World Equity Index Feeder Fund, Inc. -a 1.4511

19.78%

1.2%

9.43% n.a n.a

17.77% Sun Life Prosperity World Income Fund, Inc. -a,1

0.9918 n.a n.a n.a n.a n.a

Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (Units) ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund, Inc. -a $0.80381.08%

-6.39% n.a n.a

a - NAVPS as of the previous banking day. b - NAVPS as of two banking days ago. 1 - Launch date is August 22, 2023.

2 - Launch date is October 6, 2023.

1.75%

c - Listed in the PSE.

3 - Launch date is May 25, 2023.

“While we endeavor to keep the information accurate, the Philippine Investment Funds Association (PIFA) and its members make no warranties as to the correctness of the newspaper’s publication and assume no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions. You may visit http://www.

pifa.com.ph to see the latest NAVPS/NAVPU.”

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

December 27, 2023

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

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK COMMERCE BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PHIL NATL BANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL FERRONOUX HLDG MANULIFE NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH

495,705 497,609,462 7,601 163,530,296 652,025 711,089 229,192,974 1,151,826 6,420 4,977,939.50 7,289,075 67,700 110,370 69,550 137,500 3,750 62,910

-83,560 87,177,371 2,073 -15,822,556 52,230 288,742 -47,024,189 -1,665,882.50 -136,815 137,500 -

INDUSTRIAL ACEN CORP 4.16 4.17 4.2 4.27 4.07 4.16 30,802,000 128,103,260 ALSONS CONS 0.53 0.56 0.54 0.54 0.54 0.54 215,000 116,100 ALTERNERGY HLDG 0.7 0.72 0.7 0.73 0.7 0.72 548,000 386,530 ABOITIZ POWER 37 37.5 37.15 37.6 37 37 485,800 18,083,165 RASLAG 1.16 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.16 1.16 215,000 256,000 BASIC ENERGY 0.177 0.178 0.176 0.178 0.176 0.178 210,000 37,000 FIRST GEN 16.84 17 17.26 17.54 17 17 362,900 6,183,786 FIRST PHIL HLDG 62.5 63 62.4 63.45 62 62.5 57,700 3,606,441.50 JOLLIVILLE HLDG 4.14 6.28 6.27 6.28 6.27 6.28 1,000 6,273 MERALCO 387 393 388 393 384.2 393 122,920 47,956,236 MANILA WATER 18.16 18.5 18.4 18.58 18.16 18.16 306,300 5,625,066 PETRON 3.48 3.49 3.48 3.48 3.46 3.48 388,000 1,349,370 PETROENERGY 4.39 4.62 4.59 4.75 4.59 4.75 2,000 9,340 PHX PETROLEUM 4.4 4.9 4.9 4.9 4.9 4.9 2,000 9,800 REPOWER ENERGY 6.87 6.99 6.99 6.99 6.94 6.99 22,400 155,581 SEMIRARA MINING 29.05 29.5 28.6 29.5 28.1 29.5 4,738,700 137,014,665 SYNERGY GRID 6.3 6.39 6.47 6.55 6.3 6.3 775,500 4,968,365 SHELL PILIPINAS 10.94 10.96 11 11 10.9 10.94 171,600 1,876,508 SPC POWER 6.88 6.9 7.1 7.1 6.89 6.89 54,900 384,034 SP NEW ENERGY 1.25 1.26 1.12 1.25 1.12 1.25 34,370,000 41,744,310 AGRINURTURE 0.67 0.68 0.66 0.72 0.66 0.68 20,582,000 14,332,120 AXELUM 2.3 2.35 2.38 2.38 2.31 2.35 80,000 186,960 CENTURY FOOD 30.95 31 31.8 31.8 30.65 31 754,100 23,364,440 DEL MONTE 6.46 6.5 6.5 6.5 6.46 6.46 11,200 72,688 DNL INDUS 6.17 6.2 6.23 6.23 6.15 6.17 222,100 1,372,764 EMPERADOR 20.7 20.75 20.75 20.95 20.7 20.7 757,100 15,712,730 SMC FOODANDBEV 50 50.3 50.4 50.4 50 50.3 4,910 246,635.50 FIGARO COFFEE 0.59 0.6 0.61 0.61 0.59 0.59 2,296,000 1,370,330 ALLIANCE SELECT 0.46 0.465 0.465 0.465 0.465 0.465 150,000 69,750 FRUITAS HLDG 0.95 0.96 0.97 0.97 0.95 0.95 592,000 566,800 GINEBRA 168 169.9 169 169.9 169 169.9 1,510 255,728 JOLLIBEE 246.4 247 247.2 249 245 247 102,100 25,207,698 KEEPERS HLDG 1.45 1.48 1.48 1.49 1.44 1.48 1,715,000 2,478,210 MAXS GROUP 3.23 3.32 3.3 3.32 3.16 3.32 60,000 195,480 MONDE NISSIN 8.15 8.3 8.37 8.37 8.13 8.15 2,776,800 22,789,540 SHAKEYS PIZZA 9.7 9.75 9.56 9.7 9.56 9.7 13,900 134,760 ROXAS AND CO 0.46 0.475 0.46 0.475 0.46 0.475 7,260,000 3,440,100 RFM CORP 2.94 2.99 2.99 2.99 2.95 2.95 289,000 854,530 ROXAS HLDG 0.55 0.6 0.65 0.65 0.6 0.6 5,000 3,100 UNIV ROBINA 115.7 116.1 115 116.3 114.6 115.7 621,770 71,884,830 VITARICH 0.49 0.5 0.49 0.49 0.49 0.49 10,000 4,900 CEMEX HLDG 0.94 0.96 0.98 0.98 0.91 0.93 80,000 74,800 EC VULCAN CORP 0.6 0.61 0.6 0.63 0.6 0.61 237,000 146,760 EEI CORP 5.6 5.69 5.79 5.85 5.53 5.69 298,500 1,686,810 MEGAWIDE 3.08 3.09 3.09 3.09 3.06 3.09 177,000 545,530 TKC METALS 0.41 0.425 0.415 0.425 0.41 0.415 420,000 173,050 CROWN ASIA 1.5 1.54 1.52 1.56 1.49 1.5 194,000 291,980 EUROMED 0.7 0.71 0.71 0.75 0.71 0.71 14,000 9,980 MABUHAY VINYL 5.7 5.96 5.96 5.96 5.96 5.96 200 1,192 PRYCE CORP 5.13 5.29 5.12 5.12 5.12 5.12 2,500 12,800 CONCEPCION 14.44 14.5 14.46 14.5 14.44 14.5 3,200 46,286 GREENERGY 0.228 0.232 0.219 0.234 0.219 0.232 6,410,000 1,472,210 INTEGRATED MICR 3.07 3.1 3.04 3.15 3.04 3.06 46,000 142,010 IONICS 0.96 0.98 0.99 1.04 0.96 0.98 2,167,000 2,100,760 PANASONIC 4.67 5.8 5.92 5.92 5.9 5.9 1,400 8,284 SFA SEMICON 1.95 2.05 2.05 2.05 2 2.05 495,000 1,011,470 CIRTEK HLDG 1.52 1.56 1.52 1.57 1.52 1.57 292,000 448,920

-12,891,810 2,880 -6,269,005 2,320 -3,497,038 -95,617 11,467,764 -484,074.00 -9,800 -16,033,620 -875,399 -1,597,160 -14,200 14,669,020 -355,850.00 14,040 829,265 -815,169 -9,159,060 -39,120.50 1,200 69,750 8,550 -2,125,242 273,600 -29,220 -9,788,936.00 5,750 -257,600 -656,120 -29,317,748 15,870 277,360 1,520 -596 -7,250 -332,660 -15,750 -168,510 -16,400 -

ABACORE CAPITAL AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ATN HLDG A BHI HLDG COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL JG SUMMIT LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP PACIFICA HLDG PRIME MEDIA SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP TOP FRONTIER

48,000 -8,780,405 -5,234,024.50 -11,829,555 26,928 -562,780 474,713 532 -8,850,300 -3,869,920 -3,085,691 10,576,570 17,469,377 -

HOLDING & FRIMS

2.28%

ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 1.4486

www.businessmirror.com.ph

33.1 128.6 6.92 103.5 30.6 8.4 51.3 18.4 21.3 71.4 49.55 1.4 2.65 2.75 1,100 0.36 170.3

0.8 693.5 49.3 10 11.1 0.38 4.87 9.39 5.35 573 40.2 4.25 8.85 1.16 2.73 888.5 109.9 96.5

33.4 130.5 7.04 104 30.65 8.46 51.5 18.42 21.4 72 49.6 1.41 2.66 2.86 1,130 0.385 175

0.81 699.5 50.05 10.1 11.64 0.385 4.95 9.4 5.45 576 40.6 4.44 8.95 1.39 2.84 889 110 102.6

33.5 130 6.91 104.1 30.05 8.35 50.7 18.4 21.4 71.65 49.9 1.41 2.66 2.73 1,100 0.375 175

0.85 710 50.15 9.8 11.22 0.38 680 4.87 9.4 5.32 580 40.7 4.25 8.94 1.17 2.8 899 110.5 96.5

33.65 130.8 6.91 104.3 30.6 8.47 51.75 18.42 21.4 72.9 49.9 1.42 2.66 2.86 1,100 0.375 175

0.85 710 50.95 10.1 11.64 0.38 680 4.95 9.42 5.35 580 40.8 4.25 8.99 1.17 2.88 903 111 96.5

33.05 128.5 6.91 103 30.05 8.32 50.55 18.36 21.4 71.4 49.3 1.41 2.51 2.73 1,100 0.375 170.2

0.8 692 49.3 9.76 11.1 0.38 680 4.75 9.39 5.32 562.5 40.1 4.25 8.84 1.17 2.72 886.5 109.8 96.5

33.1 128.6 6.91 103.5 30.6 8.46 51.5 18.4 21.4 71.4 49.55 1.42 2.65 2.86 1,100 0.375 170.2

0.8 693.5 49.3 10 11.64 0.38 680 4.95 9.4 5.35 573 40.2 4.25 8.85 1.17 2.88 889 109.9 96.5

14,800 3,843,420 1,100 1,579,780 21,500 84,500 4,477,640 62,600 300 69,380 147,100 48,000 42,000 25,000 125 10,000 360

3,546,000 121,670 268,980 2,499,600 46,400 40,000 20 476,000 488,900 4,500 138,650 306,600 2,000 1,382,000 2,000 255,000 298,610 389,910 5,180

2,857,910 84,933,385 13,368,328.50 24,852,300 521,752 15,200 13,600 2,338,400 4,597,189 24,072 79,262,700 12,383,445 8,500 12,301,721 2,340 713,680 266,179,860 42,996,706 499,870

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.415 0.435 0.43 0.44 0.43 0.44 50,000 21,700 AYALA LAND 34.3 34.35 34.1 34.7 33.85 34.3 10,818,600 372,111,785 AYALA LAND LOG 1.7 1.71 1.7 1.78 1.7 1.71 2,822,000 4,910,560 ALTUS PROP 8.97 9.35 9.35 9.35 9.35 9.35 1,400 13,090 ARANETA PROP 0.99 1.01 1.03 1.03 0.99 1.01 2,790,000 2,815,410 AREIT RT 33.1 33.2 33.4 33.4 33 33.1 257,100 8,512,470 CROWN EQUITIES 0.06 0.067 0.068 0.068 0.068 0.068 20,000 1,360 CEB LANDMASTERS 2.48 2.53 2.47 2.55 2.47 2.53 100,000 249,840 CENTURY PROP 0.28 0.285 0.285 0.285 0.28 0.285 170,000 48,200 CITICORE RT 2.56 2.57 2.56 2.57 2.55 2.56 3,199,000 8,181,150 DOUBLEDRAGON 7.53 7.71 7.71 7.72 7.51 7.53 119,300 908,780 DDMP RT 1.19 1.2 1.19 1.2 1.17 1.19 1,502,000 1,772,490 DM WENCESLAO 5.5 5.99 5.8 5.8 5.8 5.8 33,000 191,400 EMPIRE EAST 0.121 0.124 0.128 0.128 0.122 0.122 6,560,000 802,380 EVER GOTESCO 0.28 0.29 0.275 0.29 0.275 0.29 380,000 108,300 FILINVEST RT 2.58 2.6 2.67 2.68 2.55 2.6 1,244,000 3,246,760 FILINVEST LAND 0.56 0.57 0.57 0.58 0.56 0.57 1,696,000 967,720 GLOBAL ESTATE 0.74 0.8 0.74 0.74 0.74 0.74 2,000 1,480 8990 HLDG 8.5 8.97 8.58 9 8.5 8.99 182,100 1,552,743 PHIL INFRADEV 0.51 0.53 0.51 0.53 0.51 0.53 393,000 207,920 CITY AND LAND 0.73 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.73 0.75 40,000 29,600 MEGAWORLD 1.95 1.96 1.96 1.97 1.95 1.95 6,070,000 11,863,710 MRC ALLIED 1.32 1.35 1.4 1.42 1.32 1.37 308,000 427,680 MREIT RT 12.3 12.44 12.48 12.48 12 12.44 191,300 2,354,776 PHIL ESTATES 0.32 0.34 0.32 0.32 0.32 0.32 180,000 57,600 PREMIERE RT 1.53 1.54 1.54 1.54 1.53 1.54 70,000 107,700 RL COMM RT 4.86 4.87 4.85 4.87 4.84 4.86 1,393,000 6,766,590 ROBINSONS LAND 15.64 16 15.84 16 15.58 16 5,218,600 82,320,140 PHIL REALTY 0.138 0.156 0.142 0.142 0.138 0.138 1,960,000 277,040 ROCKWELL 1.35 1.41 1.36 1.41 1.35 1.35 19,000 25,970 SHANG PROP 3.65 3.69 3.69 3.69 3.65 3.69 19,000 69,830 STA LUCIA LAND 3.18 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.4 41,000 139,400 SM PRIME HLDG 33.3 33.4 33.2 33.4 33 33.4 5,003,200 166,481,685 VISTAMALLS 2.26 2.41 2.41 2.41 2.41 2.41 5,000 12,050 SUNTRUST RESORT 0.75 0.8 0.85 0.9 0.73 0.8 264,000 207,270 VISTA LAND 1.65 1.66 1.58 1.67 1.57 1.66 1,503,000 2,470,510 VISTAREIT RT 1.67 1.68 1.7 1.7 1.67 1.67 177,000 296,840 SERVICES ABS CBN 4.6 4.62 4.5 4.64 4.5 4.6 319,000 1,467,510 GMA NETWORK 8.29 8.3 8.31 8.31 8.29 8.29 162,400 1,347,757 GLOBE TELECOM 1,702 1,715 1,715 1,734 1,702 1,702 20,495 35,046,795 PLDT 1,273 1,275 1,300 1,300 1,268 1,273 50,070 63,877,105 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.012 0.013 0.014 0.014 0.012 0.013 1,090,400,000 13,202,900 CONVERGE 8.49 8.5 8.3 8.54 8.29 8.49 6,251,800 52,860,753 DITO CME HLDG 2.35 2.36 2.4 2.42 2.34 2.35 2,780,000 6,560,950 IMPERIAL 0.55 0.78 0.55 0.55 0.55 0.55 10,000 5,500 NOW CORP 1.1 1.12 1.09 1.13 1.09 1.12 219,000 241,710 TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.136 0.144 0.136 0.136 0.136 0.136 30,000 4,080 ASIAN TERMINALS 14.92 15 15.5 15.68 14.92 15 1,021,500 15,363,636 CHELSEA 1.46 1.54 1.46 1.54 1.46 1.53 60,000 90,960 CEBU AIR 32.55 32.75 32.5 32.8 32.3 32.75 101,000 3,298,285 INTL CONTAINER 238.4 239 240.4 247 239 239 727,370 176,206,370 LBC EXPRESS 16.96 18.22 16.98 16.98 16.98 16.98 100 1,698 LORENZO SHIPPNG 0.55 0.65 0.55 0.55 0.55 0.55 5,000 2,750 MACROASIA 3.91 3.95 3.93 3.95 3.9 3.95 287,000 1,120,840 PAL HLDG 5.06 5.34 5.06 5.06 5.06 5.06 4,500 22,770 HARBOR STAR 0.73 0.78 0.79 0.79 0.73 0.78 7,000 5,220 BOULEVARD HLDG 0.058 0.06 0.062 0.065 0.058 0.06 15,250,000 895,670 DISCOVERY WORLD 1.06 1.21 1.22 1.22 1.22 1.22 1,000 1,220 WATERFRONT 0.365 0.42 0.37 0.37 0.365 0.365 170,000 62,650 FAR EASTERN U 590 610 598.5 599 590 590 130 77,745 IPEOPLE 7.01 7.36 7.3 7.3 7.01 7.01 300 2,132 STI HLDG 0.485 0.49 0.49 0.495 0.485 0.49 5,940,000 2,908,350 BELLE CORP 1.17 1.19 1.19 1.19 1.17 1.17 72,000 84,860 BLOOMBERRY 9.78 9.79 9.86 9.86 9.77 9.79 1,536,900 15,050,497 PACIFIC ONLINE 4.73 4.9 4.88 5.05 4.78 4.9 932,000 4,610,250 PH RESORTS GRP 0.91 0.92 0.93 0.93 0.89 0.91 6,784,000 6,061,120 PREMIUM LEISURE 0.59 0.6 0.6 0.61 0.59 0.59 6,301,000 3,771,390 DIGIPLUS 7.77 7.78 7.27 7.78 7.27 7.78 11,420,900 87,642,138 PHILWEB 1.68 1.73 1.68 1.71 1.68 1.71 66,000 112,100 ALLDAY 0.156 0.16 0.16 0.16 0.156 0.156 2,130,000 335,940 ALLHOME 1.12 1.15 1.14 1.15 1.12 1.12 590,000 671,840 METRO RETAIL 1.22 1.27 1.25 1.25 1.25 1.25 1,000 1,250 PUREGOLD 27 27.05 27.65 27.65 26.8 27 3,003,200 81,011,700 ROBINSONS RTL 39.2 39.45 39.95 39.95 38.9 39.45 87,400 3,444,355 PHIL SEVEN CORP 75 76.25 76.25 76.25 76 76.25 34,040 2,594,542.50 SSI GROUP 2.42 2.43 2.38 2.47 2.38 2.43 643,000 1,568,940 UPSON INTL CORP 1.57 1.67 1.64 1.68 1.64 1.68 3,000 5,000 WILCON DEPOT 20.6 20.8 21.5 21.6 20.6 20.6 1,993,400 42,122,765 APC GROUP 0.215 0.221 0.21 0.223 0.21 0.221 2,080,000 457,120 EASYCALL 2.26 2.97 2.21 2.52 2.21 2.52 2,000 4,730 MEDILINES 0.315 0.33 0.31 0.33 0.31 0.32 190,000 60,500 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.163 0.165 0.164 0.164 0.163 0.163 380,000 62,090 SBS PHIL CORP 4 4.25 3.81 4.25 3.8 4.25 296,000 1,184,070 MINING & OIL APEX MINING 3.06 3.07 3 3.11 2.98 3.07 11,713,000 35,872,390 ATLAS MINING 3.42 3.45 3.45 3.45 3.42 3.42 201,000 690,450 BENGUET A 4.73 4.74 4.79 4.79 4.72 4.74 117,000 555,800 BENGUET B 4.75 4.8 4.71 4.85 4.71 4.85 19,000 89,900 CENTURY PEAK 3.34 3.52 3.45 3.52 3.3 3.52 2,031,000 7,094,910 FERRONICKEL 2.02 2.04 2.06 2.06 2 2.04 145,000 294,990 LEPANTO A 0.08 0.084 0.082 0.083 0.082 0.083 1,580,000 130,760 LEPANTO B 0.078 0.08 0.079 0.079 0.079 0.079 370,000 29,230 MANILA MINING A 0.0044 0.0047 0.0045 0.0045 0.0045 0.0045 7,000,000 31,500 MANILA MINING B 0.0044 0.0046 0.0046 0.0046 0.0046 0.0046 2,000,000 9,200 MARCVENTURES 1.05 1.07 1.06 1.07 1.05 1.07 159,000 170,000 NICKEL ASIA 5.14 5.15 5.05 5.14 5.05 5.14 1,013,300 5,178,219 ORNTL PENINSULA 0.62 0.65 0.62 0.66 0.62 0.66 34,000 21,540 PX MINING 3.22 3.24 3.23 3.26 3.18 3.22 1,356,000 4,377,300 UNITED PARAGON 0.004 0.0044 0.0044 0.0044 0.0044 0.0044 1,000,000 4,400 ENEX ENERGY 5 5.4 4.81 5.4 4.81 5.4 47,000 231,980 ORNTL PETROL A 0.008 0.0082 0.0082 0.0082 0.0081 0.0081 2,000,000 16,300 PHILODRILL 0.0075 0.0082 0.0075 0.0075 0.0075 0.0075 1,000,000 7,500 PXP ENERGY 3.91 3.95 3.66 4.1 3.66 3.95 526,000 2,062,840 PREFFERED HOUSE PREF B 94.05 95 95 95 95 95 2,000 190,000 ACEN PREF B 1,052 1,078 1,080 1,080 1,080 1,080 35 37,800 BRN PREF A 96.2 97.95 96.15 96.15 96.1 96.1 1,310 125,941 CEB PREF 32.4 32.45 32.45 32.45 32.35 32.45 19,900 645,410 DD PREF 94.5 94.6 94.5 94.65 94.5 94.5 12,240 1,156,820.50 GTCAP PREF B 939.5 994.5 940 940 940 940 10 9,400 MWIDE PREF 4 87.05 91.5 87 92 87 92 3,010 261,920 MWIDE PREF 5 100 101.3 101.3 101.5 101.3 101.5 310 31,415 PNX PREF 3B 23.25 24.9 24.9 24.95 24.9 24.95 800 19,950 PNX PREF 4 212 233.8 211 233.8 211 233.8 70 15,188 PCOR PREF 3A 970.5 980 970.5 970.5 970 970 1,000 970,025 PCOR PREF 3B 978 980 980 980 980 980 10 9,800 PCOR PREF 4C 990 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 100 100,000 SMC PREF 2F 72.5 73 72.5 72.5 72.5 72.5 6,080 440,800 SMC PREF 2I 71.1 71.5 71.5 71.5 71.5 71.5 8,980 642,070 SMC PREF 2J 65.25 67.9 67.9 67.9 67.9 67.9 100 6,790 SMC PREF 2K 65.2 68.8 67.95 69 65.15 68.8 34,540 2,363,267 SMC PREF 2O 77.6 78.45 78 78 77.5 77.5 32,300 2,518,925

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR GMA HLDG PDR

WARRANTS

TECH WARRANT

-8,700 140,002,205 5,100 -2,215,555 26,780.00 5,140 58,787 -575,830 8,540 -17,400 -2,642,600 -191,300.00 -8,840 -6,421,060 210,732 57,600 -3,445,500.00 -944,734 16,200 -115,600 30,300,295 -455,970 23,590 478,765 8,986,255 19,722,224 -30,830 -1,100 -1,148,162 1,328,540 4,150,082 23,490 1,220 -10,050 -19,990 -8,297,945 25,250 185,400 27,763,363 1,560 -244,360 -7,488,705 -1,511,160 -307,042.50 -1,034,250 1,720 -12,588,165 -18,600 -6,560 1,210,710 5,595,450 -52,840 9,200 3,420,402 -6,640 -900 288,505 32,575 -

4.17 4.3 7.67 8.32 8.3 8.32 8.3 8.32 68,000

564,640

0.29

190,800

34,800

0.31

0.3

0.32

0.285

0.31

660,000

SMALL, MEDIUM & EMERGING

0.4 0.4 0.38 0.38 390,000 149,100 41,800 0.77 0.77 0.77 0.77 1,621,000 1,248,170 1 1.02 0.95 1.02 714,000 706,890 0.69 0.7 0.69 0.7 186,000 128,450 1.01 1.02 1.01 1.01 787,000 797,550 5,050 0.22 0.22 0.218 0.218 60,000 13,180 -

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

102.5 102.7 102.2 102.2 18,440 1,888,232

BALAI FRUITAS CTS GLOBAL HAUS TALK ITALPINAS MERRYMART XURPAS

FIRST METRO ETF

0.38 0.74 0.98 0.69 1 0.191 102

0.385 0.77 0.99 0.7 1.01 0.215 102.2

5,290

www.news.businessmirror@gmail.com

BDO wraps up Podium takeover

ENDER BDO Unibank Inc. on Wednesday said it completed its buyout of the interests of Keppel Philippines Properties Inc. and Opon-KE Properties Inc. in SM Keppel Land Inc., the owner of Podium complex in Ortigas Center. This follows the announcement last March 27, of the Keppel group’s decision to divest its 50-percent stake in SM Keppel and BDO’s agreement. SM Keppel is a company engaged in developing, operating and managing the Podium Complex. “By this acquisition, BDO will now fully own the Podium Complex, consisting of BDO’s Corporate Center Ortigas, the West Tower and the Podium Mall,” the bank said. The acquisition consists of 217.91 million common shares and 36.4 million redeemable preferred shares equivalent to 50 percent of the outstanding capital stock of SMKL at adjusted net asset value at closing. “By this acquisition, BDO will consolidate its ownership of the Podium Complex, presently 50 percent owned by SMKL, consisting of BDO’s Corporate Center Ortigas, the West Tower and the Podium Mall. The Podium Complex currently houses BDO’s offices in Ortigas and BDO already occupies approximately 63 percent of the office spaces in the Podium Complex,” BDO said earlier. SMKL, a joint venture between the lender and listed firm Keppel Philippines Properties Inc., will cease to exist at the close of the deal. Its primary business is to operate the Podium complex in Mandaluyong, which includes its retail and office spaces. In 2021, it reported earnings of P1.15 billion, a turnaround from the P83.8-million loss in the previous year. Gross revenues for 2021 reached P2.1 billion, more than three times from the P673.8 million in 2020. “This divestment is in line with Keppel’s Vision 2030 asset monetization plans to unlock capital which can be channeled towards new growth opportunities,” Keppel said. “The consideration was arrived at on a willing-buyer, willing-seller basis, taking into account, among others, the agreed value of the Podium West Tower and the Podium Mall and the net asset value of the sale shares,” it said. VG Cabuag

Banking&Finance BusinessMirror

SEC okays FDC’s shelf registration of ₧32-B bonds, Dagupan Electric

By VG Cabuag

@villygc

HE Securities and Exchange Commission has approved the public offerings of Filinvest Development Corp., the holding firm of the Gotianun group, and Dagupan Electric Corp.

In its en banc meeting, the SEC approved the registration statement of FDC covering P32 billion of fixed rate bonds, and of Dagupan Electric for 14.66 million common shares. FDC will offer the peso-denominated bonds in tranches within a period of three years. For the first tranche, the company will offer up to P7 billion, with an oversubscription option of up to P3 billion. Assuming the oversubscription option is fully exercised, FDC could net up to P9.87 billion from the of-

fering. Proceeds will be used to partially finance the redemption of its maturing bonds and capital expenditures, as well as for general corporate purposes. The bonds will be issued at face value from January 25 to 31, in time for listing on the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. by February 7, according to the latest timeline submitted to the Commission. FDC has picked BDO Capital and Investment Corp., BPI Capital Corp., China Bank Capital Corp., East West

Bank, First Metro Investment Corp, Land Bank of the Philippines, RCBC Capital Corp., and SB Capital Investment Corp. as joint lead underwriters and bookrunners for the transaction. Dagupan Electric, meanwhile, will conduct its public offering consisting of 2.2 million shares at P533 apiece. Net proceeds from the offer could amount to P1.12 billion, which the company will use to finance capital projects related to its electricity distribution services over a three-year period. This includes the construction of a new substation in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan and line extension, rehabilitation, and upgrades, among others. The offer will run from January 8 to 12, based on the latest timeline submitted to the SEC. Dagupan Electric has tapped Penta Capital and Investment Corp. as the sole underwriter for the offer. Incorporated in 1961, Dagupan Electric is engaged in the distribution of electricity in certain areas in the province of Pangasinan. It services

Projects under unprogrammed funds could spur tax reform bills approval

HE fate of projects that state agencies asked Congress to line up for unprogrammed funds will rest on how quickly lawmakers enact scheduled revenue measures, as past experience has shown, Senate Ways and Means committee chairman Sherwin Gatchalian said. While these projects—usually quite vital, but still sadly without any “corresponding income”—are just hanging in the pipeline, a good majority of them get to be implemented any way for as long as the revenue from new sources flows in, he explained. Thus, lawmakers will be under strong pressure in 2024 to pass the still unenacted bills in the pipeline under the Comprehensive Tax Reform Proggram (CTRP), as Gatchalian’s counterpart, House Ways and Means panel chair Joey Salceda, had earlier indicated. So, what is important, Gatchalian said partly in Filipino, is that “there must be discussions, there must be

debates on the source of this unprogrammed fund. Typically, sources for that come, from example, from state assets sold by the government, or new revenue measures.” Gatchalian was also asked in a recent freewheeling interview with reporters about the view of Minority Leader Koko Pimentel that the addition of P450 billion to the 2024 budget’s “unprogrammed appropriation” is “unconstitutional.” “The way I understand it, these appropriations, this covers everything we agreed to spend on,” the senator said. “So that’s about P5.7 trillion. The unprogrammed, since we don’t know yet if the funds will come in, that is placed temporarily under unprogrammed funds.” The simple definition of unprogrammed, he added, is “it is contingent, to let’s say, there is an additional tax measure that will come in, in the middle of the year then the unprogrammed will come in. But in terms of appropriations, what is appropriated is

P5.7 trillion. So that’s the way I understand the budgeting.” Asked if a Supreme Court ruling to clarify unprogrammed appropriations – on whether these can breach the budget ceiling set by the Executive – would help, Gatchalian replied, “If someone will file a case to clarify this or whether to challenge the unprogrammed funds, then, that can also help in a way because there will be a final resolution.” Earlier, Pimentel warned that the addition of the P450 billion in unprogrammed funds could face a legal challenge, but Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara, who as Finance committee chair is lead sponsor of the 2024 budget, said he was confident their move was legal. He received unsolicited support from former Senate President Franklin Drilon, who also saw nothing wrong in adding the P450 unprogrammed funding, since the projects or items this covers will not move up unless the money comes in. Butch Fernandez

Makati city govt suspends NHSB caps next year’s amusement tax collection rental rate hike at 4% AKATI Mayor Abby Binay on Wednesday commended the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Makati for heeding her request to suspend the collection of amusement taxes to boost tourism and support local artists in the city. The city council on December 27 approved City Ordinance No. 2023269 suspending the collection of amusement taxes in the city. Under Section 3F.01 of City Ordinance No. 2004-025, also known as the Revised Makati Revenue Code, the city collects taxes in the form of amusement fees for any theatrical, musical, or other performance and for the use of public entertainment areas. In a letter addressed to the Sa ng g u n i a ng Pa n lu ngsod of Makati, the mayor said the suspension of this tax is seen to encourage more investments in creative projects and provide more room for economic growth in the tourism sector. “By suspending amusement taxes, we are promoting economic sustainability and empowering the creative force within our city. I see a Makati that positively buzzes with

Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Thursday, December 28, 2023

creativity and innovation, a city that appreciates and fully supports the ingenuity of the Filipino artist,” Mayor Abby said. The initiative is an unprecedented move and affirms the mayor’s commitment to developing the creative industries in Makati City. The mayor’s call echoes efforts from the national government. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently launched the project “Lungsod Lunsad: A Call for Creative Proposal towards Building Creative Cities” under the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act or Republic Act No. 11904. “Given this nationwide initiative and its promising potential for Makati City, I believe it is in our best interest to support and encourage this project. By suspending the amusement tax, we can foster the growth and sustainability of the creative industries within our city, thereby stimulating economic activity and attracting tourism,” the mayor’s letter further said. Mayor Abby is keen to demonstrate how cities can foster economic growth through thoughtful policy and strategic initiatives while nurturing their cultural heritage.

O avoid unwarranted increase in rental rates among lower income families, the National Human Settlements Board (NHSB) has approved a 4-percent increase cap for monthly residential rental rates of P10,000 and below, effective January 1 to December 31, 2024. NHSB Resolution No. 2023-03, approved on October 13 and published on December 16, 2023, provides for the continuous implementation of rental regulation under the terms and conditions set forth in its predecessor policy, NHSB Resolution No. 2022-01, but with modification in rate increase. The decision was based on the recommendation of the National Economic and Development Authority to set a uniform maximum percentage increase at the upper bound of the inflation rate target of the current Administration. Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Undersecretary Henry Yap, representing Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar as the NHSB chairperson, said the policy was reviewed and revised according to latest empirical studies, such as the Annual Family Income and Expenditure Survey and

Census of Population and Housing. “These data guided the decisionmaking process of the multi-agency NHSB to come up with the most sound, feasible and fair figure to represent the cap in rental increase,” Yap said. Republic Act No. 9653, known as the Rent Control Act of 2009, declares the State’s continuing program of encouraging the development of affordable housing to protect housing tenants in the lower-income brackets and other beneficiaries from unreasonable rent increases. The law authorized the thenHousing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) to regulate rental rates of certain residential units, among other related functions. When Republic Act 11021 was enacted, NHSB assumed this responsibility as the single-policy making body to provide overall directions and program development to attached shelter agencies of DSHUD. A fine of P25,000 to P50,000 or imprisonment of not less than one month and one day to not more than six months, or both, shall be imposed on any person found guilty of violating any provision of the Act.

The SEC main building FILE PHOTO

a total of 135,445 customers in the City of Dagupan, Municipalities of Calasiao, Sta. Barbara, San Fabian, San Jacinto and Manaoag, and barangays Bolingit and Cruz in the City of San Carlos. The SEC has also, previously, approved the public offering of

Pampanga-based Angeles Electric Corp., conducted in compliance with the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, which states that generation companies shall offer and sell to the public a portion not less than 15 percent of their common shares to the public.

BPI’s BanKo celebrates 7th merger anniversary

PI Direct BanKo Inc. (BanKo), the microfinance arm of the Bank of the Philippine Islands, has celebrated its seventh merger anniversary with focus on its mission to become the most trusted microfinance partner of self-employed microentrepreneurs. “Our anniversar y signifies BanKo’s enduring vision to help build a better Philippines – one family, one community at a time. This commitment resonates in every financial service we provide to the public, with the hope of contributing to making their lives better,” BanKo chairman Josephine Ocampo said. As part of the celebration, BanKo held a blessing ceremony in December for its newly-renovated headquarters in Greenhills, Ortigas Avenue. The four-storey building will be the permanent workplace of BanKo’s executive management and key managerial and support staff. BanKo said it continues to show growth while it ramps up efforts to have a wider reach. In 2023, the bank fast-tracked its expansion and opened 26 new branch-lite units in different locations across the country, bringing the total number of BanKo branches and BLUs to 346. “We believe the opening of these new BLUs will usher in new and more opportunities to advance financial inclusion and deliver on our promise of better banking experience for the public,” BanKo president Jerome Minglana said. Minglana said that while BanKo continues to accelerate its digital transformation agenda to simplify banking experiences in branches, increasing its branch network is es-

sential in ensuring and improving customer satisfaction. “Although we have been working hard to integrate the human touch on the BanKo Mobile App to replicate the branch experience, there are clients who are still reliant on traditional channels. We aim to be more customer-centric, providing them with a personalized experience they need,” he said. Rod Mabiasen Jr., BanKo’s head of financial inclusion and microfinance, announced that starting December, in time with BanKo’s anniversary month, self-employed microentrepreneurs can now borrow up to P500,000 without collateral. “We recognize the expanding requirements of the businessmen in growing the business. With the higher loan amount, NegosyoKo loan gets better in matching the need for additional working capital, and stay true to our brand of service,” he said. The launch of the new and improved features of NegosyoKo Loan caps the year that also saw the introduction of InstaCashKo Line, a ready-credit line made available to existing and new clients of BanKo which allows them access to cash anytime. Year-to-date, BanKo has released P14.2 billion worth of business loans in 2023. BanKo also offers PondoKo Savings, an ideal starter for those who want to save. The deposit product can be opened via BanKo Mobile app with just P1, has no required maintaining balance and offers 2 percent rebate for every purchase of prepaid load on the app. Depositors can send money to other banks and e-wallets via InstaPay for free. VG Cabuag

SSS e-Wheels goes to remote areas in Zambales

HE Social Security System (SSS) Olongapo Branch recently conducted an SSS e-Wheels program at Sitio Parola Cawag in Subic, Zambales to extend SSS services and coverage in far-flung areas. SSS Olongapo Branch Head Marites A. Dalope and other branch personnel went on a 90-minute boat ride from Bulungan to Sitio Parola, marking the SSS’ commitment to providing services closer to the fisherfolk community. The e-wheels program started with an orientation on SSS benefits, programs, and services. The

Accounts Management Section personnel actively engaged with and assisted over 120 participants during the activity. SSS e-Wheels services include issuing Social Security (SS) Number and Payment Reference Number (PRN), My.SSS registration and online payment assistance through Gcash/Maya and other SSS-related inquiries. Employees from the Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council and the Public Relations Department of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority also participated in the event.

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Thursday, December 28, 2023

‘Low tariffs punishing local food producers without cutting prices’ T

Govt hikes 2024 spending for farm-to-market roads to ₧19B

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

@jearcalas

OCAL food producers are being “penalized” by the Marcos Jr. administration with its decision to extend lower tariff rates on key food items until the end of 2024, the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (Sinag) said on Wednesday. “It is very unfortunate that the economic team led by Secretaries Ben Diokno and Arsenio Balisacan had succeeded in the issuance of EO [Executive Order] 50; penalizing local producers while promoting the interests of a few privileged importers and favored traders,” the group said in a statement. Sinag was referring to the latest executive issuance by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last Tuesday that formally authorized the extension of the lower tariff rates on imported pork, rice and corn until December 31, 2024. (Related story: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2023/12/27/pbbm-issues-eo-extending-lower-foodtariffs/) Marcos, in issuing EO 50, argued that keeping the tariffs on the three commodities is critical in ensuring the country has sufficient food supply while averting unnecessary price spikes because of volatile global market conditions, including El Niño.

“The present economic condition warrants the continued application of the reduced tariff rates on rice, corn, and meat of swine (fresh, chilled or frozen) to maintain affordable prices for the purpose of ensuring food security, managing inflationary pressures, help augment the supply of basic agricultural commodities in the country, and diversify the country’s market sources,” Marcos, who is a former agriculture secretary himself, said in EO 50 issued on December 22 but was only made public recently. This is not the first time that Marcos kept the lower tariff rates on imported commodities. Earlier this year, Marcos issued EO 10, the precedent of EO 50, to extend the tariff rates until the end of this year. The industry group said local food producers “have nothing to do with the spiraling costs of staple crops,” particularly rice. “Extreme weather situations [like El Niño, La Niña, stronger

typhoons, droughts] and global pandemics (Covid-19, ASF [African Swine Fever], avian flu, walking pneumonias) are the new normal that have prodded the rest of the world to be food self-reliant,” Sinag said. “Even Singapore, the poster boy of food imports, has been pursuing a food self-reliant economy,” it added. Sinag, led by Engr. Rosendo So, emphasized that local producers are “penalized” while importers are “rewarded” and “pampered” with four straight years of reduced tariffs on rice, pork and corn. “Ang mga taga-Neda na lang ang naniniwala sa biyayang dulot ng unlimited imports at benevolence ng importers. [It is only those in Neda who still believe in the benefits of unlimited imports and the benevolence of],” it said. “It is this mindset of ‘importation as the only solution’ that has put us in this dire situation,” it added. The group challenged the administration on the benefits of extending the lower tariff rates, arguing that prices of commodities did not drop in the past three years under the reduced tariff regime. Citing its own price monitoring, Sinag said the price of well-milled rice in 2021 ranged between P40 and P42 per kilogram while it is now ranging from P48 to P54 per kilogram. Sinag added that prices of pork liempo were between P230 a nd P250 per k i log ra m l a st 2021, but are now at P360 to P400 per kilogram. “Who really benefited from the

lower tariffs? Worse, we’ve lost billions in foregone revenues, further crippling the capacity of the government to provide public support to the agriculture sector,” it said. “Countries that have relied on their own capacity to produce food have not been impacted by any new developments in the global market,” it added. Two weeks ago, the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Board approved the extension of reduced tariff rates on key commodities until the end of 2024 to keep local food prices stable amid the volatile supply situation. (Related story: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2023/12/15/ lower-tariffs-on-key-food-itemsextended-till-end-2024/) With the approval, the tariff rates on the following commodities will remain until end-2024: 15 percent and 25 percent for inquota and out-quota pork imports, respectively; 5 percent and 15 percent for in-quota and out-quota corn imports; and a 35-percent uniform rate for rice imports. The extension of the lower tariff rates on the three commodities was seen in some quarters as a step in the right direction to stabilize domestic food prices and arrest any possible price spikes. “That is great, a much-needed move given that international prices of key food items are elevated. There is also continued uncertainty due to the combined impacts of conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, plus the worsening threat of drought,” Monetary Board member V. Bruce J. Tolentino earlier told the BusinessMirror.

Gold inches higher on expectations for Fed rate cuts in 2024

OLD ticked higher as the final week of the year got under way, with traders looking ahead to interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve in 2024 and a weaker United States currency. Bullion is trading near a record high, heading for its first annual increase in three years, as data showing US price pressures easing reinforces expectations for multiple rate cuts in 2024. A report last week showed the Fed ’s preferred gauge of underlying inf lation barely rose last month and—by one measure— even trai led polic y ma kers’ 2 percent target. Swaps markets are now pricing in a more than 80 percent chance of a cut by March, which would be bullish for non-interest bearing assets like gold, though some central bank officials have pushed back on the prospect of early easing. G old rose 0. 2 p erce nt to $2,057.28 an ounce as of 10:38 a.m. in New York on December 26.

Iron ore prices

MEANWHILE, iron ore rallied

BLOOMBERG NEWS

to its highest since June 2022, showing Beijing’s efforts to stem the property market’s decline in recent months may be paying dividends. Futures in Singapore rose above $140 a ton amid thin trading on Tuesday. Optimism is building

that China’s economic recovery and its steel-intensive property sector are finally gaining momentum, after a subdued post-pandemic reopening in the past year disappointed investors. On Thursday, China’s biggest state-owned banks launched this

year’s third round of rate cuts as authorities boost efforts to lift economic activity. The salvo comes after Beijing in November announced a 1 trillion yuan ($127 billion) plan to boost urban revitalization, providing relief for the steel-intensive property sector amid a wave of developer defaults. With heightened anticipation for better demand, steel mills that have depressed iron ore stockpiles to keep operations lean may now face restocking pressure should needs exceed supplies. The recent weekly commercial housing transaction data showed positive improvement and bolstered bullish sentiment, said Atilla Widnell, managing director at Navigate Commodities Pte in Singapore. “We maintain that Iron Ore futures should quite easily target $145-158 a ton at least by next quarter.” said Widnell. Iron ore climbed 1.5 percent to $140.55 a ton at 3:58 p.m. in Singapore on December 26. Futures in Dalian were 1.3 percent higher, while steel rebar and hot-rolled coil both advanced in Shanghai. Bloomberg News

NEDA urged to put up digital agri database

OCAL food producers have urged the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) to establish in 2024 a long-delayed agricultural statistics database that will be available to all stakeholders online. In an interview on Tuesday, Elias Jose Inciong, president of the United Broiler Raisers Association (UBRA), said having easy access to crucial information will guide poultry farm managers in

setting production targets that accurately reflect prevailing consumer demand. He partially attributed the current oversupply in chicken meat to uninformed decision-making by local growers and importers. “Poultry farms produced aggressively in anticipation of higher demand during the holidays. Importation of frozen chicken was just as aggressive for the same reason. But the expected high demand

did not materialize…resulting in the oversupply of chicken we are seeing today,” Inciong said. He said the glut in chicken meat has caused farm gate prices to drop to levels where poultry farmers are hardly breaking even with their investments. Inciong said having a digital repository of agriculture data will help both entrepreneurs and government policy-makers make better decisions, drawn from the

same vetted body of information. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. underscored the importance of digitalization in the improvement of government services during his last State of the Nation (SONA) address in July. “Digitalization will support the government’s data-driven, science-based planning and decision-making. It is the greatest and most powerful tool, not just to improve ease of doing

HE Marcos Jr. administration is hiking its spending for the rehabilitation and construction of farm-to-market roads (FMR) nationwide by 35 percent year-on-year to over P19 billion—the highest on record— according to the state’s budget documents. The General Appropriations Act of 2024 (GAA) showed that the national government allotted P19.596 billion for various FMR projects next year, about 35.36 percent higher than the P14.476 billion it earmarked this year. The GA A indicated that the state increased the budget for all regions with FMR projects except for one: Mimaropa region. In terms of budget allocation, the Bicol Region cornered the highest funding at P2.812 billion or about 14.35 percent of the national government’s total earmarked allotment for FMR projects. Budget documents also showed that the Bicol region got the highest increase for FMR funding on an annual basis. The region’s allotment for next year is more than double or about 140 percent higher than its P1.171 billion allotment this year. With the increase, Bicol region surpasses Ilocos region next year in terms of FMR budget allocation. Nonetheless, the Ilocos region, which would receive P2.186 billion next year for FMRs, ranked second across the 15 regions with FMR budget allocation. The region’s funding next year is about 7.24 percent over its P2.038 billion budget this year, according to the 2024 GAA. Central Luzon ranked third in terms of FMR budget allocation, which also stood above the P2billion level, next year. The region would receive P2.056 billion next year, 46.40 percent more than its P1.404 billion allotment this year. Only Mimaropa region saw a drop in its FMR budget allocation next as it suffered a 6.8-percent year-on-year cut to P538.833 million from this year’s P578.150 million funding. Six regions would also have an above P1-billion budget allocation for FMRs next year: Northern Mindanao (P1.11 billion), Central Visayas (P1.117 billion), Cagayan Valley (P1.263 billion), Calabarzon (P1.404 billion), Western Visayas (P1.52 billion) and Eastern Visayas (P1.915 billion). All these six regions received higher budget a l locat ion for FMRs next year with a growth rate ranging between 18.8 percent to as much as 36.56 percent on an annual basis, according to the 2024 GA A. The FMR budget allocation of the other regions were as follows: Cordillera Administrative Region at P548 million, SOCCSKSARGEN at P682.046 million, Caraga at P710 million, Davao region at P866 million and Zamboanga Peninsula at P876 million.

2024 NEP vs GAA

STATE documents also showed that the national government’s business, but also against many forms of graft and corruption,” the President said. Marcos told agencies that “consistent with this transformative policy direction, all government offices must then ensure that their vital services are digitalized immediately.” Meanwhile, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) highlighted the need to embrace digitalization with the allocation of P38.75 billion in the 2024 budget, representing a 61-percent increase from its P24.93-billion funding this year.

budget for FMRs next year is 13.47 percent higher than the P17.268 billion proposed by the administration under the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP). The increase between the actual and the proposed 2024 funding benefitted 12 regions that saw their budget rise while three regions suffered a cut. In terms of difference, the Northern Mindanao region saw the highest increase in its FMR budget by 39.62 percent from its proposed funding to the actual approved allocation under the 2024 GAA. Bicol Region saw its FMR budget allocation under the 2024 GAA rise by 33.39 percent from what was initially allotted for it under the 2024 NEP. Western Visayas’s approved budget for FMRs next year is also 33.92 percent over what the administration initially proposed to the Congress. The only three regions that saw their FMR budget slashed under the 2024 GA A versus their allocations under the 2024 NEP were SOCCSK SA RGEN (-1.8 4 percent), Zamboanga Peninsula (-5.55 percent) and Eastern Visayas (-12.08 percent), according to state documents. Marcos earlier said the FMR projects of the national government are critical in facilitating the “seamless” transport of goods at a lesser cost, particularly for the country’s food growers. Under the 2024 GAA, the budget for the FMR projects will be released directly by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the construction, improvement, rehabilitation and repair of FMRs in accordance with the approved network plan. For its part, the Department of Agriculture (DA) must ensure that the FMR network plan contains the scope of work, estimated length in kilometers and specific location for each FMR project. Furthermore, the DA must provide a list of priority FMR projects that lead to arterial or secondary roads and key production areas. The FMRs must also be “properly” geo-tagged. “The approved FMR network plan shall be regularly updated to prioritize: [i] major rice, corn, high value commercial crops, livestock and fishery producing provinces; [ii] areas where the majority of small farmers and agrarian reform beneficiaries registered under the RSBSA (Registry System for the Basic Sectors in Agriculture) are located; and [iii] provinces or regions where the absolute number of poor farmers and the incidence of poverty are high as identified in the latest official poverty statistics of the PSA,” the 2024 GAA read. “Upon completion of the construction, improvement, rehabilitation and repair of FMRs, the DPWH shall turn over the management and ownership thereof to the LGUs concerned, which shall commit to shoulder the maintenance and repair costs,” it added. Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

“Technological advancement has given rise to a growing digital economy which continues to create new forms of work, transforming the employment landscape. Hence, investing in the digitalization of the bureaucracy is crucial not only in enhancing its efficiency but also in generating quality jobs for Filipinos,” DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said in a previous statement. With a digitalization budget of over P2 billion in 2024, Neda is among the 10 government agencies with the highest allocations for the program. PNA

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Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • Thursday, December 28, 2023

PHOTO BY REBECCA SMITH ON UNSPLASH

ULTRAMAN Since 1966, the Ultraman series has been a vehicle of courage, hope, and compassion, expressed through Ultraman’s love for Earth and a cast of unique Kaiju. This design features the text “PEACE FOR ALL” alongside Ultraman Cosmos, a hero balancing strength and kindness who fought for a world in which people and monsters are able to coexist in peace.

UNIQLO LAUNCHES HOLIDAY COLLECTION FOR PEACE FOR ALL CHARITY T-SHIRT PROJECT

GLOBAL apparel retailer Uniqlo has announced the worldwide release of four new designs for its ongoing Peace For All charity T-shirt project. Arriving just in time for the holiday season, the latest collection features chic designs from four creative collaborators with close ties to Uniqlo now available. All profits from the sales of Peace For All T-shirts are donated to projects undertaken by UNHCR (the UN refugee agency), Save the Children, and Plan International. For this new collection, contributors include celebrated Japanese artist Yu Nagaba, Pritzker Prize-winning Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, Tokyo-based French architect, artist and designer Emmanuelle Moureaux, and Ultraman, the legendary Japanese hero who is beloved around the world. The UNHCR (www.unhcr.org), the UN refugee agency, leads international action to protect people forced to flee because of conflict and persecution. Established in the UK in 1919, Save the Children (www. savethechildren.net) is an international NGO that works to save and improve children’s lives around the world and ensure children’s rights to survival, education and protection are a reality worldwide. Finally, Plan International (www.plan-international.org) is an independent development and humanitarian organization that advances children’s rights and equality for girls in more than 75 countries. More information about Uniqlo is available at www.uniqlo. com.

NEWEST OFF-ROAD ICON AWAITS HOLIDAY SHOPPING

LET the new year usher in new adventures. Breeze through familiar cityscapes and conquer unfamiliar terrains as Shangri-La Plaza brings back its most awaited holiday giveaway. This year, one lucky mall guest will make their wish come true and drive home the newest Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2024 with “Wishes and Wheels Shang Holiday Raffle Promo” happening until January 31, 2024. Hailed by some experts as this year’s best car design, Toyota’s latest iteration of the beloved Land Cruiser line embraces retro design combined with modern innovation. To join, shop for gifts and all holiday needs at any qualified Shang store and earn one digital raffle coupon for every single receipt of P2,500. Redeem it by scanning the QR code at the Concierge or by submitting details at raffle.shangrila-plaza. com/raffle. The promo is open to mall guests aged 18 and above with a Philippine address. The Grand Raffle Draw takes place on February 2, 2024, at 5 pm, and the lucky winner will be notified through registered mail and phone call and announced on Shang’s official website. More information is available at www.facebook.com/ shangrilaplazaofficial.

Let’s start our child’s new year growth watch T

HE New Year is just around the corner. I remember when we were kids that we would be asked to jump our highest when 12 midnight hits on January 1. My kids also followed that same practice when they were growing up. But physical growth, like height, is only one of the indicators of growth for our children. As a parent, I am sure we all share the goal of our child’s healthy progress in body, mind and emotions. According to the Department of Health, one in four children aged five and below are short for their age or stunted (www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1209158). Health brand Abbott is increasing awareness and working together with mom celebrities and communities to tackle stunting among children in the Philippines. It aims to empower parents to screen for and recognize stunting in their children so they can improve their children’s nutrition, if needed. Stunting can challenge a child’s development, impact their overall health and limit their future potential. Children affected by stunting can be at risk of significant immune deficiencies, compromised cognitive function, behavioral problems, diminished bone health, and decreased muscle mass. The Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition 2023-2028 identified poor feeding practices and low nutrition literacy among the causes

of malnutrition in the country (Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition 2023-2028). Additionally, two in three Filipino moms don’t recognize stunting as an important child development issue (Smart Parenting Mom Village Survey 2021). “There is a clear need to educate parents on the prevalence and impact of childhood stunting on growth and development,” explains Dr. Jose Dimaano Jr., nutrition medical affairs director for Abbott in Pacific Asia. “Early identification of growth issues and quick intervention for children found to be at risk of nutrition deficiency can have a profound impact on the fight against stunting. This is why Abbott is taking a multidisciplinary approach in supporting parents by working with communities and health-care practitioners to provide tools and information to spot the signs of malnutrition and take action.” In collaborating with celebrity moms Chesca Kramer, Nadine Samonte, Divine Lee, Nina Corpuz, plus influencers and online mom communities, Abbott intends to increase awareness of stunting and support parents with tools and educational resources that can help children reach their full growth potential. “Since its inception in 2021, Growth Watch has educated and reached more than 161,000 families, and the goal is to double the reach by the end of next year,’’ said Angelico Escobar, general manager of Abbott’s nutrition business in the Philippines. “Abbott is driven by our mission to help children have a healthy start and reach their optimal growth. We know that malnutrition is complex and affects children’s growth across all socioeconomic classes. The work of Growth Watch is one of Abbott’s efforts to fight global malnutrition and to help children achieve their growth potential through measurement and proper nutrition.’’ In 2021, Abbott launched the Abbott Center

for Malnutrition Solutions, an initiative to reduce malnutrition. The center, a collaboration between Abbott and external experts and partners, is focused on the identification, treatment and prevention of malnutrition for the most vulnerable populations in the world including children, aging adults and underresourced populations. The Growth Watch initiative also contributes toward Abbott’s 2030 Sustainability Plan goal to transform care for malnutrition, chronic and infectious diseases. As part of the Growth Watch initiative, parents and guardians are invited to join mom communities to establish the habit of measuring their children’s height, and provide proper nutrition to safeguard the growth, well-being and development of children across the country. Tools and resources available include PediaSure Plus growth calculator, PediaSure Plus height chart, and free growth assessment and nutrition counseling. Nutrition plays a crucial role in addressing malnutrition and stunting challenges. Addressing undernutrition early can help mitigate growth issues and ensure children reach their full developmental capacity. For children who do not get enough nutrients through food alone, nutrition supplements, such as PediaSure Plus, can help fill some of the gaps. The oral nutritional supplement, recommended by doctors, is formulated with 37 key growth nutrients including natural vitamin K2 and arginine to support 1.5 times faster growth in 8 weeks and strong bones (Prado EL, Dewey KG. Nutrition reviews. 2014;72:267-284). ■ For more information on the growth tools and resources, visit www.family.abbott/ph-en/pediasure/tools-andresources.html. For free growth assessment and nutrition counseling, register online or by calling Abbott’s CarelineMetro Manila: 8995-1555 and PLDT toll-free hotline: 1-80010-995-1555.

YouTube mom who gave parenting advice, Ruby Franke, pleads guilty in child abuse case BY AMY BETH HANSON The Associated Press A UTAH mother of six who gave parenting advice on YouTube pleaded guilty Monday to child abuse charges and will go to prison for trying to convince her two youngest children they were evil, possessed and needed to be punished to repent. Ruby Franke stood shackled in gray and white jail clothing as she closed her eyes and took a deep breath before pleading guilty to each of her first three charges. On the fourth, she fought back some emotion before saying: “With my deepest regret and sorrow for my family and my children, guilty.” Judge John J. Walton scheduled sentencing for February 20, 2024 after accepting the plea agreement, which described new details of the abuse the children endured, including the claims that they were possessed. Under the plea agreement, Franke agreed to serve a prison term and the sentences will run consecutively. Sentencing would be up to the judge. Franke pleaded not guilty to two other counts, court records said, and was returned to custody after

the hearing. Under Utah law, second-degree aggravated child abuse can be charged if that person knowingly or intentionally inflicts serious physical injury to a child or causes or permits another to inflict serious physical injury to their child. Each charge carries a sentence of one to 15 years in prison. Winward Law said in a statement Friday that the abuse occurred while Franke was influenced by a relationship counselor who led her to “a distorted sense of morality.” “Ruby Franke is a devoted mother and is also a woman committed to constant improvement,” Winward Law said in a statement. Franke initially believed that her co-defendant Jodi Hildebrandt “had the insight to offer a path to continual improvement,” but said that Hildebrandt “took advantage of this quest and twisted it into something heinous.” In the plea agreement, Franke admits that she tortured her son from May 22 through August 30 by forcing him into hours of physical tasks, summer work outdoors without adequate water and “repeated and serious sunburns” that blistered. He was denied

food or given very plain meals, and he was isolated from other people without access to books, notebooks or electronics. After he tried to run away in July, his hands and feet were regularly bound, sometimes with handcuffs. At times, ropes were used to tie together handcuffs that secured his hands and feet as he lay on his stomach, lifting his arms and legs off the ground and injuring his wrists and ankles, the plea agreement said. Franke also admitted to kicking her son while wearing boots, holding his head under water and smothering his mouth and nose with her hands, according to the plea agreement. “He was also told that everything that was being done to him were acts of love,” the agreement states. Franke acknowledged similarly abusing her 9-year-old daughter by forcing her to work outside, run on dirt roads barefoot, and go without food and water. “She was also repeatedly told she was evil and possessed, the punishments were necessary for her to be obedient and repent, and these things were being done to her in order to help her,” the plea agreement

said. The girl “was convinced” what her mother said was true, the agreement said. Franke and Hildebrandt were arrested on August 30 after Franke’s 12-year-old son escaped from Hildebrandt’s house in the southern Utah city of Ivins and asked a neighbor to call police, according to the 911 call released by the St. George Police Department. The boy was emaciated and had duct tape around his ankles and wrists but wouldn’t say why, the caller reported. “I think he’s been...he’s been detained,” the caller said, his voice breaking up. “He’s obviously covered in wounds.” The boy and Franke’s daughter, who was also found at Hildebrandt’s house, were taken to the hospital. Eventually, Franke’s four youngest children were taken into state custody. Franke and Hildebrandt were each charged with six felony counts of aggravated child abuse. They have remained jailed since their arrests. The YouTube channel, which started in 2015, ended after seven years. Franke’s husband, Kevin Franke, has filed for divorce.

Thursday, December 28, 2023

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ROBOT MACHINE THAT UNITES AESTHETICS, TECHNOLOGY IN HAIR CARE NOW IN THE PHL

EDDY KIM, inventor and owner of Scatter

OW there’s a way to minimize the effects of hair loss and bald spots in men and women. Hair loss often translates to the loss of confidence, sometimes with devastating results. There are very few treatments that successfully bring hair back or reduce hair loss and the results are often temporary. “Help is on the way for those who are experiencing bald spots and hair loss. At

the forefront of technology, we are bringing Scatter to the Philippines as an innovative, affordable, simple and safe solution to these issues,” assured Michael Hortaleza, CEO of MOHS Dermatology, exclusive distributor of Scatter in the Philippines.“ Scatter, the groundbreaking way of minimizing the unsightly effects of bald spots and hair loss, was introduced at the 11th Annual Convention of the Phil-

ippine Academy of Aesthetics and Age Management Medicine Inc. (PA A AMI). Eddy Kim, inventor and owner of Scatter and master scatter from Korea, conducted a live demo and lecture, providing attendees with a firsthand look at this transformative technology. In his demonstration, Kim showed how the Scatter machine can be used here in the Philippines. “Scatter is the blending of art and technology,” remarked Kim. The Scatter machine is an innovative Scalp Micropigmentation Technolog y from Korea combining computer technology with the art and science of aesthetics. Essentially, Scatter is programmed like a computer to tattoo hair-like spots on the scalp to darken bald spots and areas of thinning hair. The spots are precisely placed so that they simulate actual hair to give the illusion of a full head of hair. Scatter treatment will be available at select dermatologists, who will receive the necessary training to use this gamechanging technology. MOHS Dermatolog y is the professional dermatolog y arm of MOHS Analytics, a fast-growing diversified company that prides itself on providing quality health and wellness solutions though technolog y that addresses what is needed by Filipinos nationwide.

SUN LIFE GREPA SUPPORTS RURAL BANK EVENT Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc., one of the major

life insurers in the country, participated in the 66th Charter Anniversary Symposium and Special General Membership Meeting of the Rural Bankers Association of the Philippines (RBAP) at the Rizal Park Hotel Manila in November 22 to 23, 2023. A Sun Life Grepa booth was set up to entertain inquiries and give advice to rural bankers on the merits of life insurance for their different business needs. Additionally, free medical check-ups, doctor consultations from Grepa Medical Diagnostic Clinic, as well as fun games were offered to attendees during the event. In the photo, from left to right, are Julie Estares, President, ACM Business Solutions, Inc.; Sun Life Grepa Business Development Manager Andrei Vegas; Head of Sun Life Grepa Group Sales and Strategies Justine Daguman; current RBAP President Rafael Francisco Amparo, incoming RBAP President and Executive Director Anacleta Dayola-Aboyme; and Sun Life Grepa Affinity Marketing Sales Head-Partnership Distribution Marge Estrera.

Conti’s Pays it Forward with Sweet Act of Kindness

CONTI’S pays it forward with its Mango Bravo

ONTI’S Bakeshop and Restaurant upped the sweet spirit of Christmas by surprising random customers with free Mango Bravo cakes and a heartfelt request to share the joy with a stranger. Diners who received a complimentary Mango Bravo were given another whole cake and were encouraged to pass the kindness forward by giving the second cake to a random person.

“The act of paying it forward fosters a sense of connection and community. Sharing Mango Bravo with a stranger is a simple yet powerful way to bridge gaps and strengthen the bonds between people,” Patricia Marañon-Tan, one of the daughters of Conti’s founders, said. “In a world that can sometimes feel chaotic, simple acts of kindness stand out. It has the power to create a positive and

BingoPlus draws a fun-filled 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival

INGOPLUS, the first and only live streaming bingo in the Philippines, brought another year of fun and entertainment to the highly anticipated annual Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Parade of Stars last December 16, 2023 at Valenzuela People’s Park.

The MMFF is an annual event that celebrates and promotes Filipino-produced films. Earlier this year, BingoPlus joined the organization in making the 1st Summer MMFF Summer happen. As the year ends, thousands of MMFF fans gathered once again on the streets to show

uplifting environment.” Conti’s chose to give away Mango Bravo cakes because it is the most sought-after delicacy from the beloved food brand’s roster of delectable dessert offerings, and has been a part of many family’s Noche Buena for the past 26 years. “Our signature cake represents indulgence and celebration. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds but a symbol of joy and festivity,” Marañon-Tan said. “Christmas is a season of giving, and what better way to celebrate it than by sharing the joy our beloved Mango Bravo brings. It’s a small gesture that we hope will inspire a chain of kindness that will make a lot of people’s holiday season brighter.” The special project was captured in a video that had been getting a lot of attention and spreading warm holiday cheer on Conti’s Facebook page (https://bit. ly/3tsAyLc) where it was posted. To know more about Conti’s Bakeshop & Restaurant visit http://www.contis.ph/ or check out the Facebook (@contisph), Instagram (@contis_ph), and Tiktok (@ contisph) pages.

their support and catch a memorable glimpse of their favorite artists. The event was made extra special with the BingoPlus float joining the parade, along with premium merchandise distributed to fans and dance performances by the brand’s very own “Bing Girls.” Among the film entries that prepared grand and colorful floats were the comedy film starring Eugene Domingo and Pokwang, “Becky and Badette”; romance drama film “Rewind” starring real-life couple Marina Rivera and Dingdong Dantes; and the horror-thriller movie “Mallari” starring Janella Salvador and BingoPlus’ newest male endorser Piolo Pascual. Recently, the brand proudly launched its newest BingoPlus TV commercial with Piolo Pascual and BingoPlus girl Maine Mendoza. The MMFF has been a Christmas staple for every Filipino family. As the leading online bingo platform in the country, BingoPlus aims to ensure that this year’s festival is extra special and entertaining, staying true to its commitment to provide quality and fun-filled Christmas celebrations for all, anytime and anywhere. BingoPlus and ArenaPlus proudly stand as flagship brands under Digiplus Interactive Corp, solidifying its position as a leading gaming and leisure provider in the country. For more updates, visit www.bingoplus.com and www.arenaplus. net or download the apps now via the App Store and Google Play.

Hong Kong Disneyland, Make-A-Wish treat critically ill children at new World of Frozen

OR the first time in forever, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) teamed up with Make-A-Wish® to grant life-changing wishes at the all-new themed land World of Frozen. Eleven children living with critical illnesses and their families from around the world traveled to Hong Kong to visit World of Frozen and have their wishes granted. They were among approximately 130 guests traveling from local Make-A-Wish affiliates including the Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore and Taiwan to join the Summer Snow Day Wishes Celebration. “Making wishes come true is some of the most important work that we do at Disney,” said Jill Estorino, President and Managing Director of Disney Parks International. “In fact, Disney is the largest wish-granter in the world for Make-A-Wish. Hong Kong Disneyland joined that journey when it opened in 2005 and has been bringing Disney magic to the local community and beyond ever since.” Rhianne, a wish child from the Philippines, had her wish captured by the end of 2019. She was ready to travel during early 2020 but then the pandemic hit. During the wait for travel to be safe, Make-AWish Philippines continued to engage with her over three years through Disney-themed care packages, a surprise birthday party, and a special invitation to the first Wish Ball to give a testimonial. Throughout the last three years, Rhianne has been bravely going through her medical treatment while patiently waiting for her wish to come true. “This is my first visit to Hong Kong Disneyland and also my first trip abroad, which is so exciting. I can’t wait to visit World of Frozen and experience Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs,” Rhianne said. The entire event was inspired by one child’s wish to meet the Imagineers involved with the all-new World of Frozen. Dominic, a wish child from Singapore, was diagnosed with hemophilia seven days after birth. Despite facing an incurable condition that requires a lifetime of treatment, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of knowledge, fueled by a passion for mathematics, science, engineering, and space. After watching the documentary“The Imagineering Story” on Disney+ during the pandemic, Dominic was deeply inspired by the Imagineers’ creativity and innovative use of technology to build Disney parks and attractions. “While many Disneyland guests may only see what is presented, I am drawn to explore the rationale behind the scenes,” he said. “The work of Imagineers combines robotic techniques,

architecture, engineering and other disciplines, turning imagination into reality through numerous trials and experiments. I am thrilled to meet them to learn more about their work.” Jo Phoa, Director of Creative Development of Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong, and Angus Chan, Principal Ride Control System Engineer of Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong, were touched by Dominic’s thirst for knowledge and excitement about Imagineering. They designed a special exploratory tour for Dominic, guiding him through the new attraction Frozen Ever After, which utilizes state-ofthe-art Audio-Animatronics technology. Additionally, Dominic learned about the electric motion simulator system of Iron Man Experience, the first at any Disney park, and had the unique opportunity to witness the design process. Dominic, who visited a Disney park for the first time, expressed his thrill at exploring the new World of Frozen and learning about its technology and operations. His conversations with Phoa and Chan reaffirmed his passion for science, inspiring him to become an Imagineer. “This is a remarkable day for Make-A-Wish. For the first time ever, we are granting wishes from the Southeast Asia region at Hong Kong Disneyland,” said Dr Kevin Lau, Board Director of Make-A-Wish International. “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Hong Kong Disneyland for inviting us to this special event celebrating the power of wishes at the kingdom of Arendelle and joining hands with Make-A-Wish in bringing hope to children from all around the world.” To commemorate the opening of World of Frozen and the 25th anniversary of Make-A-Wish Hong Kong, the resort will donate HK$10 for every transaction made at Tick Tock Toys & Collectibles in the kingdom of Arendelle to Make-A-Wish Hong Kong until Jan 10, 2024. Combined with the proceeds from the recent “Wish Upon A Chocolate Cake” charity sales at the resort, HKDL plans to contribute a total of HK$600,000 to support the development of MakeA-Wish Hong Kong. For over 40 years, Disney and Make-A-Wish have together fulfilled more than 150,000 Disney-inspired wishes around the world. The bravery, tenacity, and optimism displayed by the wish children are an inspiration for all cast members at HKDL, and the resort will continue to work with Make-A-Wish Hong Kong and other Make-A-Wish International affiliates to support the wishes of wish children living with critical illnesses and their families, creating magical memories that last a lifetime..

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Thursday, December 28, 2023

RADAR SYSTEM TURNOVER The Embassy of Japan officially turned over on Decem-

ber 20 an air surveillance-radar system to the Philippine Air Force at Wallace Air Station, San Fernando City in La Union. The delivery of the Japan-made radar system is based on the contract signed between the Defense Department and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation in August 2020. It aims to enhance the Philippine Army’s air-surveillance capabilities as part of its modernization program. At the event were Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (third from left) and Chargé d’affaires Kenichi Matsuda of the Embassy of Japan (third from right).

DONATION TO O.F.W. The Israel Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, with the assistance of Ambassador Ilan Fluss (left), gave monetary assistance on December 18 to overseas Filipino worker Gelienor “Jimmy” Pacheco (second from left), who was kidnapped by Hamas for 49 days. According to ICCP president Yoray Ofek (right), “extending a helping hand to those in need is a testament to the strength of community and shared humanity.”

PRESENTATION OF CREDENTIALS Ambassador Neal Imperial (left) pledges to pursue

closer political, economic, and cultural ties with Malta during his meeting with President George Vella as part of the presentation of credentials ceremony on December 6, 2023 at the Grand Master’s Palace in Valletta. Malta and Albania are interested in forming a bilateral labor agreement with the Philippines, with talks already in their early stages. (See story below.) OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALTA/PNA

Skilled Migration Act to boost Germany’s relations with PHL T

Malta, Albania keen on forging bilateral labor accord with PHL

s two-way ties betweeen Germany and the Philippines reach 70 years, Ambassador Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke sees a lot of promise for collaboration between the two nations.

“[Both] have a huge potential in increasing their cooperation in the fight against climate change and the promotion of renewable energy,” said Pfaffernoschke. “We are united in our commitment to a rules-based international order. The stable macroeconomic environment offers promising perspectives for trade and investment.” The envoy added that “we will foster cooperation on the migration of skilled workers to Germany in technical professions.” Highly encouraging on the list are the robust people-to-people ties— something that can be strengthened even further through Germany’s new “Skilled Migration Act.” The new legislation will introduce novel channels for skilled workers from countries outside the European Union (EU)— including the Philippines—to migrate to Germany. The act significantly broadens opportunities for individuals seeking entry into Germany and the EU for the recognition of their foreign professional qualifications. The phased implementation of these new regulations began in November. Notable enhancements for skilled workers from non-EU nations have been put in place. For those with higher education qualifications, im-

migration possibilities are broadened through the “EU Blue Card,” featuring lowered salary thresholds, expanded eligibility, an extended list of professions, and facilitated family reunification. Notably, information technology (IT) specialists can secure the said card based on professional experience alone without a formal qualification. Additionally, the act ensures that skilled workers with professional or academic training are entitled to a residence permit—provided all requirements are met. Those with completed professional qualifications or higher education can engage in any qualified employment within the non-regulated sector, and the connection between training and employment is no longer mandatory. The employment process for drivers is also streamlined. For the German Embassy, these amendments mark a pivotal moment in its country’s commitment to fostering inclusive immigration and strengthening ties with skilled workers from around the globe. “Germany is welcoming skilled workers with open arms and full support,” said Economic Counsellor Dr. David Klebs. “This law creates even better incentives for Filipino skilled workers to consider

DR. ANDREAS PFAFFERNOSCHKE, ambassador of Germany GERMAN EMBASSY

working in [our country].” Working closely with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority or Tesda, Commission on Higher Education or CHED, and the Department of Migrant Workers or DMW, the embassy wants to ensure that immigration is fair and sustainable, with a high standard of protection and equality for Filipinos starting to work in Germany.

Why Germany?

ASKED what makes Germany attractive for skilled workers, Dr. Klebs highlighted the excellent working and living conditions, equal pay, full health insurance, and legal access to permanent residence and citizenship. He emphasized the family-friendly policies, joint government and company-run programs, as well as the positive impact on the Filipino labor force in terms of remittances, work experiences, and skills development. With the Skilled Migration Act, the migration process is also made much easier. Georg Leube of the Visa Department explains that the act simplifies immigration for skilled workers with vocational training and practical knowledge. It also in-

troduces new provisions for the EU Blue Card visa, facilitating work migration, especially for highly qualified workers in “MINT,” or mathematics, IT, natural sciences, and technology-based professions and medical doctors. Leube also pointed out the significance of health-care workers, as he highlighted new provisions for assistants in nursing recognized in Germany that also enhance the Triple Win program: “With the…program or the existing work migration of recognized nurses or nurses going to Germany for recognition measures, we already have made good experiences. They are needed and welcomed in Germany’s health-care sector.” The embassy official shared that “for work migrants, even the settlement permits will be eased, so they can apply for this in a shorter time than before.” Administrative procedures, such as online applications, are available and aimed at speeding up the immigration process. However, it is also crucial to note that individuals aspiring to practice regulated professions in Germany must still undergo the recognition process. Even in non-regulated professions, recognition proves advantageous, providing numerous benefits for long-term professional integration and a promising future in Germany. The Skilled Migration Act signifies a progressive step in Germany’s bilateral relationship with the Philippines, promoting collaboration, fair immigration, and mutual benefits. As the two nations look forward to celebrating 70 years of diplomatic ties, the act emerges as a pivotal element fostering shared prosperity and understanding.

French Embassy launches ‘Make It Iconic’ campaign

HE French Embassy introduced its government’s “Make It Iconic” campaign last month, which coincided with the occasion of one of its most iconic cultural events: the French Film Festival. Now in its 26th year, the French Film Festival, in partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Cinemas, featured contemporary movies for Filipino audiences. Renowned actress Emmanuelle Béart–a French icon herself–was the guest of honor for the festival’s premiere, which ran from November 25 to December 3. One of the movies featured was Béart’s documentary: “Un silence si bruyant (Such a Resounding Silence),” which prompts victims of incest to speak out—a topic to which French society pays great attention. A special screening commem-

orated the “International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women,” followed by a roundtable discussion on opening day. On November 26, the French Embassy held a gala dinner for Filipinos who studied in France, as they were recognized for their iconic contributions to their respective fields and in the society. This year’s honorees were multiawarded filmmaker and film historian Nick Deocampo, internationally recognized chef Aaron Isip, Design Center of the Philippines executive director Rhea Matute, and SM Supermalls president Steven Tan. The “Make It Iconic” campaign showcased France’s assets in terms of industrial and economic momentum, potential for innovation, and cultural and artistic vitality.

President Emmanuel Macron said: “The French spirit continues to astonish, fascinate and change the world. Let’s bring out this spirit, this ambition, this desire to combine excellence and freedom. Let’s make it iconic.” With the daring French spirit, France aims to highlight its assets through: Economy (#ChooseFrance): In 2022, France has placed first, for the fourth consecutive year, for foreign investment projects in Europe—thanks to its top-notch infrastructures, highly qualified

labor force, cutting-edge technologies, and a business-friendly environment that makes it attractive to entrepreneurs and innovators. At the same time, France pays special attention to striking a balance between competitiveness and sustainability, as its low-carbon energy consumption illustrates. Tourism and gastronomy (# E x p l o re F r a n c e , # Ta s t e France): The European country offers very diverse travel and culinary experiences, through its rich culture, its unique landscapes and humanist spirit. Tourism in France is responsible and environmentally friendly, as is its innovative and sustainable agricultural sector. All Filipinos know landmarks such as Notre Dame and Mont SaintMichel, and there are many more territories to explore that feed both the soil and people.

WO Southern European governments are interested in establishing a bilateral labor agreement (BLA) with the Philippines, with talks already in their early stages. The Philippine Embassy in Italy, which has concurrent jurisdiction over Malta and Albania, said it plans to recommend to the Department of Foreign Affairs or DFA and the Department of Migrant Workers or DMW the proposal given the number of Filipinos working in the two countries. For Ambassador Neal Imperial, a possible labor deal with the two states would not only address their labor shortages, but also protect the rights of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). “The Philippines’s paramount consideration has always been the protection of the rights, and promotion of the welfare of our [OFWs],” the ambassador stated. “Therefore, any BLA signed with another country must have provisions that adequately ensure the well-being of our [Filipino laborers], and protect them from possible abuses.” The Philippines first proposed the agreement with Malta, considering that several OFWs there were hired from third countries, making them susceptible to illegal recruitment and labor trafficking. “In the embassy’s high-level meetings with officials of the government of Malta, the latter expressed their

openness to the idea of negotiating a BLA,” Imperial said. Albania, meanwhile, expressed its interest in signing a similar accord with the country, amid its labor shortage brought about by a boom in its tourism sector. Its government aims to mediate among businesses, employers and potential migrant workers to ensure that the rights of both parties are protected. Imperial said the embassy expected to receive a proposed draft of the labor deal with Albania “in the coming days,” while talks with Malta are still in the initial phases. Workers in the tourism and service sectors, including hotels, restaurants, and spas, are in demand in Albania. Employment opportunities available in Malta, on the other hand, are those in accounting, information and technology, tourism and retail, and caregivers. Albania hosts at least 400 OFWs, while around 10,000 are working in Malta as accountants, engineers, managers, chefs, hotel staff, entrepreneurs, bus drivers, nurses and caregivers, the Filipino diplomat shared. Imperial discussed forging stronger labor and economic relations with the two European countries this month upon his presentation of credentials to President George Vella of Malta, and President Bajram Begaj of Albania. Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA

Taiwan hospital conducts medical mission in Davao

HE Noordhoof Craniofacial Foundation (NCF), in collaboration with the Craniofacial Center team from Taiwan’s Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, organized a medical mission with the Craniofacial Foundation Phils., together with the United Davao Specialists Hospital and Center Inc., which provided free medical services to local congenital craniofacial-defect patients. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines (Teco) welcomed the medical mission team, which has been providing free reconstructive surgeries for Filipino craniofacial patients since 1999. It aims to alleviate human suffering through medical services. T he team, after a 10 -hour transit flight, conducted its 13th medical mission in Davao City. It assisted 18 craniofacial defect patients and completed surgeries: nine cleft palate reconstructions, five cleft-lip reconstructions, and four craniofacial-defect reconstructions. Minister Teng-shi Yang from Teco attended the medical mission last month, as he expressed his gratitude for the fruitful results of the long-term collaboration between the NCF and Taiwan’s

Chang Gung Memorial Hospital that helped deepen Taiwan-Philippines health-care cooperation. At the gratitude tea party, Yang mentioned that, besides conducting cleft-palate and lip surgeries with seed doctor Dr. Dax Pascasio in Davao City, the medical mission team also assisted in establishing the first craniofacial center in southern Philippines. This initiative ensured that impoverished local patients can receive comprehensive craniofacial team treatment without having to travel to Manila. According to Teco, it “allowed Taiwan’s compassion to take root and sustainably develop in the Philippines, vividly embodying the spirit of ‘Taiwan can help and Taiwan is helping.’” The NCF initiated the “Cleft Lip and Palate International Aid Program” in 1998. Including the recent one in the Philippines, they have conducted 90 missions in nine countries and assisted 2,273 underprivileged craniofacial patients. The foundation has also trained 183 craniofacial medical professionals from 21 countries, with seed doctors establishing teams or treatment centers in the Philippines, Mongolia, Cambodia, Vietnam, and China.

Sports

‘Tapales fought like a warrior’

BusinessMirror

B8 | T

hursday, December 28, 2023 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

Yulo: I’ve learned a lot in 2023 C By Josef Ramos

CARLOS YULO says he wants to avoid repeating the same mistakes he committed in the year about to end.

ARLOS YULO aims for nothing less than a gold medal at the Paris Olympics and vowed to rid the mistakes he committed in the year about to end. “My ultimate goal this coming new year is to capture an Olympic gold,” Yulo told BusinessMirror on Wednesday. “And avoid repeating the same mistakes [in 2023].” “I want to move on,” he said. “I learned a lot from it.” Yulo parted ways in June with Japanese Munehiro Kugiyama, his long-time coach who nurtured him from an unpolished gem to a two-time world champion and Tokyo Olympian. He has made the Intramuros gym in Manila as his training base and no longer Tokyo where he trained at least for the past five years while he was on academic scholarship. Those

We’re here to continue writing the story of basketball–MVP

O say that 2023 was an eventful year for Philippine sports is an understatement as the country witnessed many great feats of national athletes in international tournaments capped by the country’s historic co-hosting of the FIBA Basketball World Cup (FIBAWC) 2023 that was supported by Smart Communications Inc. “We’re here to continue writing the story of basketball. The game we love has changed rapidly since the early days; just look at the challenge even the greatest basketball nations face—with millions of kids playing in tens of thousands of courts all over Asia, South America and Oceania,” said PLDT Chairman and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Chairman Emeritus Manuel V. Pangilinan. Pangilinan, the key figure in bringing the FIBAWC to the Philippines, called the co-hosting “a gift to the Filipino people who adore the sport.” For Pangilinan, the FIBAWC was a chance for Philippine basketball to plow more fertile ground for legends to grow. “To have our hard courts, our backboards and hoops, our fans bear witness to the story of Philippine basketball as it is written—to emphasize that this basketball— crazy country of our belongs to the league of basketball nations and for the Philippines to be a cradle of enduring legends,” Pangilinan said. As head of the Local Organizing Committee of the FIBAWC 2023,

PLDT and Smart president and CEO and president of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Alfredo Panlilio said the country’s hosting reaped benefits beyond basketball. “We not only witnessed world-class athleticism, but also showcased the capability, hospitality, and Puso of Filipinos to orchestrate a global event. With the record-breaking turnout of 38,115 fans during the final phase opener at Philippine Arena, we demonstrated that our nation is not only a powerhouse in basketball enthusiasm, but also a formidable host that can elevate the standards of international sports events,” Panlilio said. The Philippines’ hosting duties also helped boost massive tourism and consumer spending brought about by the event, and aided in

privileges given by government to elite athletes are gone, but the 23-year-old’s spartan training for Paris continues. And he has a new coach, also a Japanese, according to Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion-Norton. Carrion-Norton told BusinessMirror that Tomoharu Sano took over Kugiyama, who steered Yulo to a total 17 gold medals during their athletecoach tandem that started in 2016. Sano is a former member of Japan’s artistic team having won a gold medal in parallel bars, a silver in the individual all-around and bronze in horizontal bars at the 2006 Asian championships in Surat, India, in 2006. “They like each other and it’s okay with coach Mune [Kugiyama],” Carrion said. “Coach Tomo is not an Olympian but a good gymnast before.” Yulo, along with Aleah Finnegan, already qualified for Paris and Carrion-Norton said that training camps abroad have been lined up for the elite athlete from Leveriza. Sano and the GAP picked England, Spain and Japan for Yulo’s training camp. “These are for his exposures

strengthening international relations with other nations. “The FBWC presented a chance to show the viability of our country as an investment destination for global businesses, and provided livelihood opportunities for micro, small, medium, and large enterprises in the country,” said Panlilio, a member of the FIBA Central Board and second vice president of the FIBA Asia Board. The successful hosting of the whole FIBA event led to the renewal of FIBA and Smart’s Global Partnership until after the FIBAWC 2027 in Qatar. Besides the World Cup, the Philippines also saw commendable performances of national athletes in the Southeast Asian Games and Asian Games led by the recordbreaking achievement of EJ Obiena and Gilas Pilipinas’ inspiring gold medal win in Hangzhou. The national women’s football team, or known as the Filipinas, also created history with their fighting performance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

SPORTS patrons PLDT chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan and PLDT and Smart Communications president and CEO Alfredo Panlilio meet the Filipinas.

Samboy, Star Walker AT a festive event for the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons at the official home of the UP President, Angelo “Jijil” Jimenez, on December 18, Samboy Lim’s wife, Lelen Berberabe, newly installed Dean of the UP College of Law, shared some concerning news with our group. Samboy, she said, was back in the hospital and the signs don’t look good. They are hoping for the best. And so it was that five days later, Avelino “Samboy” Lim, The Skywalker, left the earth plane to literally skywalk his way up to his real home. Sad news, indeed. But also comforting in a way that after almost 10 years of being immobile and unable to use his full faculties, he is finally free, his spirit soaring homeward. It was a good time to remember who he was and what he had contributed to our lives. He brought so much color and excitement to the game of basketball. Nothing halfway with Samboy. His spirit always reached for the heights— figuratively and literally. His body sometimes held him

back, and so he often fell, suffered injuries, stayed in the sidelines. But he always came back. He played all his 11 seasons in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) with one team—San Miguel—where he was a nine-time champion and Grand Slam winner. He won no Most Valuable Player Award during his career even if he was the most electrifying hardcourt personality. But Samboy’s worth cannot be defined by awards. His game was in a different dimension. His “stats” were intangibles, his impact was immeasurable in terms of figures, but when he played, the crowd went on a roller coaster ride. You kept your eyes open when Samboy was in the game. His performance was a combination of Evel Knievel’s exploits with the awesomeness of Cirque De Soleil. There was simply no one like him. Off the court Samboy was a soft-spoken, humble guy— friendly and accommodating, patient and generous with his time. His teammates would also attest to his endearing little boy-naughtiness. He was the type of person who would hide his teammate’s shoe just to see his reaction. He would bring a rubber mouse in his basketball bag so he could spring surprises in the locker room. Anything for a

and skills-honing, to enhance his skills and knowing who his competitors are,” Carrion said. Sano, Carrion-Norton said, is currently remotely coaching Yulo. “He’s teaching children in Japan, by April, he’ll be free to coach Caloy,” she said. Yulo said he won’t have difficulty switching to Sano’s methods. “We already met many times before and it’s okay with me,” he said. “We’re still waiting for his set up, but of course I’m excited to work with him.” Yulo bagged gold medals in parallel bars, floor exercise and vault to go with a silver and a bronze at the Asian championships in Singapore last June and also won two golds and two silvers at the Cambodia Southeast Asian Games in May. The Paris Summer Olympics are from July 23 to August 11.

ARLON TAPALES lost his two world titles to Japanese “Monster” Naoya Inoue after he was knocked out in the 10th of their scheduled 12-rounder on Tuesday night in Tokyo. But there’s nothing to be ashamed of for the boxer from Lanao del Norte who carries the monicker “The Nightmare,” according to MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons. “The strategies, the plans were all there, but he [Tapales] got a little bit excited in the fourth round and got knocked down,” said Gibbons the morning after the fight at the Ariake Arena Wednesday. “He gave his best and didn’t surrender despite the odds.” “Marlon Tapales didn’t embarrass himself and the whole Filipino people, he fought his very best,” Gibbons said. “I believe in 2024 to 2025, Marlon will become a three-time world champion.” Tapales, 31, couldn’t get Inoue’s numbers and added his World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation super bantamweight belts to the Japanese’s collection. “Shout out to Tapales for fighting me. He was a tough adversary,” said

the 32-year-old Inoue, who improved to 26-0 won-lost with 24 knockouts. He now has four belts, including the World Boxing Organization and World Boxing Council crowns. A right straight from Inoue spelled Tapales’s doom athough Inoue was ahead 89-81, 88-82, 90-80 in the three judges’—American Robin Taylor and Raul Caiz and Canadian Craig Metcalfe—cards after nine rounds. Only four-division world champion Nonito Donaire Jr. lasted 12 rounds against Inoue in 2019, losing by a unanimous decision but injuring the Japanese’s left eye socket. Inoue got his revenge in July 2022 when he knocked out the aging Donaire in the fourth round of their rematch. Inoue also knocked out four other Filipinos earlier in his career—Michael Dasmariñas (first round, 2021), Warlito Parrenas (second round, 2015), Jerson Mancio (fifth round, 2013) and Cris Omayao (fourth round, 2012). Inoue entered the fight a -2000 favorite while Tapales was a +950 underdog. Team Tapales flies home Friday. Josef Ramos MARLON “THE NIGHTMARE” TAPALES is a surreal image in the foreground as Naoya Inoue celebrates with his belts. COURTESY OF WENDELL ALINEA

Trae Young’s stat lines look like empty calories

TRAE YOUNG’S supposed to be an MVP material. AP

By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press

HE numbers that Atlanta guard Trae Young are putting up are notable, averaging 28.1 points and 11.3 assists per game so far this season. Keep that up for an entire season, and he’ll do something that only Oscar Robertson, Tiny Archibald and James Harden have accomplished. Stats like those typically get a player at least mentioned in an MVP conversation. With Young, it might not even be a guarantee that he’ll be in the All-Star conversation. The Hawks opened their postChristmas schedule at Chicago on Tuesday night, when Young was trying to do something that nobody has ever pulled off in National Basketball Association (NBA) history. He had at least 30 points and 10 assists in each of his last seven games, tying Robertson’s league-record stretch done in the 1964-65 season. Nobody other than Robertson, until now, had ever managed that in more than five consecutive games. “Yeah, yeah, yeah, I’m going to stop you right there,” Young said after

he tied Robertson’s mark over the weekend. “Let’s go to another question. I don’t want to talk about my stats. Let’s talk about something else. Thank you, though. Appreciate you.” He had to settle for tying Robertson’s record of 30-10 pointassist games: Young had 21 points and 13 assists in Atlanta’s 118-113 loss at Chicago on Tuesday. But maybe the way Young didn’t want to talk about tying the mark is a sign of maturity from someone who has a confident swagger that can be perceived as arrogance. To his credit, he’s 6-foot-1 and might be the lightest guy in the league; the Hawks list him at 180 pounds, which seems generous. He doesn’t often let being the smallest player on the floor impede him in any way when it comes to putting up numbers. But sometimes, his numbers get looked at as empty calories. Young’s stretch of 30-point, 10-assist games seemed barely noticed, what with the league going into its Christmas schedule and with Detroit on a 26-game slide that tied the worst single-season run in NBA history going into its matchup Tuesday against Brooklyn. And it should be noted, the bangedup Hawks went 3-4 in those seven games with Young on this 30-10 tear. Great numbers, not great results. “You can’t evaluate a player’s performance necessarily based on their stat line,” Hawks coach Quin Snyder said. “That’s particularly true when you have a playmaker or a leader on the court.” While Young’s intangible leadership skills also might get lost in the shuffle, if people did evaluate him solely on the numbers, he’d be far more revered. Young averaged 26.7 points and 10.3 assists before the All-Star break last season—and didn’t make the All-Star Game. In the formula used to determine the starters, Young finished fifth among Eastern

laugh with fun-loving Samboy Lim. He was a blessing—to his friends, to the teams that he played for—Colegio de San Juan De Letran in the National Collegiate Athletic Association, Lhuiller in the Philippine Basketball League, Northern Consolidated and San Miguel Beer in the PBA. Long before he passed away, his greatness had already been extolled and literally carved in stone as early as 2018 when Congressman Eric Martinez of Valenzuela—who loves to immortalize basketball greats with commemorative

Conference guards in the fan voting, sixth in the media voting and, maybe most damning, 12th in voting among fellow players. There were 375 players who returned All-Star ballots last season (player voting counts as 25 percent of the formula) and 13 (3.5 percent) of them listed Young as someone who should start. Those who got more votes among players in the East guard category last season: Kyrie Irving, Donovan Mitchell, Jaylen Brown, DeMar DeRozan, Harden, Tyrese Haliburton, Darius Garland, Jalen Brunson, LaMelo Ball, Jrue Holiday and Zach LaVine. Coaches picked the reserves and he fell short there as well. “Let me say this: We have a tendency to put Trae under a microscope and that’s a credit to who he is as a player,” Snyder said. “And that’s a good challenge for him.... Players want to improve and they want to be coached.” Snyder points out some of the things that he believes Young doesn’t get enough credit for, like taking charges—no small feat since basically everyone in the NBA is bigger than he is. Young has helped the Hawks make the playoffs in each of the last three years as well, though at 12-18 now, Atlanta has some work to do if it will extend that streak next spring. In fairness, there are things that go unnoticed. There are also things that are noticed. People in Miami still haven’t forgotten how Young told the fans there that “it’s over” when the Hawks went up 117-111 with 59.9 seconds left of a game in 2019. It, indeed, was over: The Heat scored the next 22 points and won by 14 in overtime. Fans in New York won’t forget how Young took a theatrical bow there when the Hawks were beating the Knicks in the 2021 playoffs, either. He played up to his newfound supervillain status by appearing in a WWE event at Madison Square Garden later that summer.

basketball courts—put up a statue of the Skywalker in action at the Gilas Pilipinas Basketball Court in Marulas. Samboy is hailed there as “Isang Dakilang Pilipino.” That he left us on December 23, just two days before Christmas is sad and poignant and a bit ironic. But not really. When you think about it, Samboy is very much like Christmas. He was a gift—to Philippine basketball, to Philippine sports in general, to all of us Pinoys who always held out for things that will both astound and inspire us. He gifted us with his talent, his fearlessness and his love for the game. He was one of the best things that ever happened to us, basketball fans. On the side he and Lelen gifted us with progeny— their daughter Jamie—who like her father exhibits the same character, the same determination, and pursuit of excellence that would give us pride as a nation with her achievements in international competitions. In her, Samboy’s greatness lives. So farewell, Samboy. Thank you for being you. You have chosen to leave us at Christmas, but that seems OK. During this sparkly, twinkly Season, we will think of you as our Christmas star.

Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

Health&Fitness BusinessMirror

Thursday, December 28, 2023 C1

TMC promotes preventive, pre-emptive health care through longevity program By Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

he Medical City (TMC), one of the country’s premier hospitals, has always been an advocate of preventive health care through its Wellness and Aesthetics Institute (WAI). The Institute offers preventive health check packages that are customized and personalized to meet the patient’s needs. TMC is taking healthcare checks to the next level with the introduction of The Wellness Longevity Program. Described as “a symphony of cutting-edge medical science and research,” the program weaves together precision medicine, lifestyle interventions and proactive health strategies to craft a treatment approach. “When we take a look at the patient profiles of our returning patients, we do have a lot of patients who come in every year for several years, carrying the same risks and problems despite our advice on lifestyle management. They don’t get a better dashboard. Some of them get sick actually,” noted Dr. Christian Flores, WAI Director.

Better dashboard This was a trigger for Dr. Flores and his team to come up with a better dashboard, “a better tool that will give a better analysis of where a patient is in terms of his health.” “The important point here is that instead of waiting for someone to get sick and have his life at risk and if he survives that, he might have some disability. We want to preempt it earlier. Before, we used conventional tests but now we have a better tool to evaluate. It is personal-

ized and unique for that individual in terms of food, medication and type of exercise, for example,” he said. Dr. Raul Destura, Director of TMC’s Clinical and Translational Research Institute, explained this further by describing The Longevity Program as a “well-curated set of technology platforms where scientific evidence is attached to everything to make sure that what we are doing is actually based on science.” “Each of these platforms have actually been pre-validated by top universities all over the world, condensing them into a precision technology suite that can actually be accessed by our patients here at WAI. It’s something about empowering an individual to be able to know how to live his life once he gets information about himself, on how his gene interprets and interacts with the environment,” he said.

Precision medicine Through Precision Medicine, which delivers the right treatment for the right patient at the right time, experts can unlock the potential of the patient’s DNA to tailor patient healthcare. This will help them make medical decisions that truly align with each individual’s needs.

Dr. Christian Flores, Director of The Medical City’s Wellness and Aesthetics Institute, offers a toast at the launch of The Longevity Program. Under the umbrella of precision medicine are biological age testing, pharmacogenomics and nutrigenics. Biological age testing unveils the secrets of a patient’s inner body workings. The test will review the patient’s unique body rhythm, encouraging choices that are in sync with the patient’s biological essence. This test is the key to unlocking “a vibrant, energized and resilient life.” Pharmacogenomics, on the other hand, is a field of medicine that investigates how a person’s genetic makeup may affect how their body processes certain medications. In involves genetic testing that looks for changes in specific genes. the study of how genes after a person’s response to drugs. This can help doctors to prescribe a medication that leads to fewer side effects or that may work better for the patient. Nutrigenetics studies the relationship between genes and diet with the aim of achieving

optimal health through diet. It is the science the bridges the gap between the food you consume and your distinct genetic makeup. Genetic variations determine the body’s nutrient response, influencing crucial lifestyle factors like physical function, cognitive performance and overall well-being. Under the expert guidance of TMC-WAI, this program not only incorporates lifestyle interventions but also encourages patients to embrace preventive health-seeking behaviors, ensuring a holistic approach to fostering a longer and healthier life. Dr. Kathrina Bundalian, a Lifestyle Medicine specialist and Head of the Preventive Health Section at WAI, emphasized that “making positive choices in lifestyle, such as getting good sleep, staying connected, and keeping an active lifestyle, along with taking preventive steps like regular check-ups, adds an extra layer, boosting the chances of a longer health span.”

Dr. Abigail San Pedro-Garcia

A dermatologist for marginalized women By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes Contributor

here’s one dermatologist who is determined to empower marginalized women and that’s Dr. Abigail San Pedro-Garcia, the CEO of Derma Circles. Dr. Abigail San Pedro-Garcia, the chief executive officer of Derma Circles, is one healthcare practitioner who has also included empowering women in her community to uplift their own lives in her own little way. According to San Pedro-Garcia, Derma Circles’ mission is to provide inexpensive aesthetic and dermatology services backed by scientifically based treatment procedures and therapies. The clinic also aims to employ marginalized women and giving them decent and respectable jobs so they can improve their lives. “I hired marginalized women from the very start. I witnessed the struggles of my mother as a single parent and it compelled me to help disadvantaged women, especially single mothers. I would personally train them for about a month not just on dermatological care but also on dealing with people and on cross selling our services,” she said. “I would observe if they’ve acquired the necessary skills before I make them permanent employees. I’m very frank but I’m also careful not to offend people. If I have to let go of people, I explain to them that I have a standard to maintain,” she added. San Pedro-Garcia has a burning desire to offer inexpensive professional dermatological services to classes B, C and D to reduce the practice of people turning to pseudo-dermatologists. Her clinic’s unique selling proposition has always been effective dermatological treatment and care or skin improvement because of expertise and well-researched medicines. For her, clients are not hard to come by because they know Derma Circles provides excellent results, including healing from the damage caused by pseudo-dermatologists. “My staff are well-trained and are aware that it is safe to dispense any of our skincare products or combinations of these,” she said.

Her original plan San Pedro-Garcia did not initially plan to be a dermatologist. The turning point came when a dermatologist friend of hers suggested that she specialize in dermatology so that she would not be pressured by her studies. This would also enable her to personally take care of her son. Moreover, she started to develop an admiration for dermatologists because of their ability to boost the confidence of the people. On a personal level, her mother’s visit to the dermatological clinic to treat her severe acne gave her a closer view of how a dermatologist can make a difference in an individual’s life.

The early stages San Pedro-Garcia started her entrepreneurial journey at the young age of nine doing menial work in their family business of gasoline refilling stations. She then ventured into buying and selling candies which were popular with her classmates. Later on San Pedro-Garcia helped in another family business, a 24-hour drugstore in Surigao City. She and her siblings were expected to man the store during the weekends and after school. Being the eldest of four children, she was tasked to purchase supplies and monitoring sales. This was the start of her vision of having a business of her own. After graduating from Far Eastern University-Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation (FEUNRMF) medical school in 1991, she later earned her specialization at the Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center. She became a board-certified dermatologist in 1996. In 1998, she joined the first Healthway multi-specialty clinic in SM North EDSA. She worked for six years for Healthway, initially as a general practitioner and later as a full-fledged dermatologist. Healthway opened San Pedro-Garcia’s eyes to the possibility of having her own clinic that offers reliable, convenient and affordable dermatological treatment and care to people beyond the usual affluent patients.

The realization of a dream In 2004, she opened her own clinic in a building

on J.C. Aquino Avenue in Butuan City. With two facialists and five beds, San Pedro-Garcia would provide dermatological services to people from all walks of life. From the onset, she would hire marginalized women. “I was confident to have my own clinic because I’m a board-certified dermatologist. Aside from that I know that I’m a people person. When I worked for Healthway, patients would prefer me over other dermatologists so I thought I was doing an effective job. I also built contacts with suppliers of medical equipment and supplies,” San Pedro-Garcia said. “All these plus the experience I had in managing our family drugstore contributed to a fast-learning experience in running my own business,” she added. “I established my first clinic with P1.5 million. I spent it mostly on purchasing medical equipment from reputable companies because I wanted only the best for my customers. Thankfully, the rent for my first clinic wasn’t expensive,” she pointed out. Now, she has Re-Enhance Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Clinic in Robinsons Place Butuan and Papa’s Building in San Francisco, Agusan del Norte; and Derma Circles in SM City Butuan. San Pedro’s Derma Circles has started seeking franchisees to expand its footprint. In the recently held Franchise Asia Philippines 2023, a one-stop exhibit for homegrown and international brands in the food, retail and service sectors held last month in SMX Mall of Asia, Derma Circles was the lone franchise from Butuan City.

Scaling up San Pedro-Garcia’s goal has always been to professionalize the practice of dermatology. Her mission is to provide a safe way to provide skincare. “To promote my vision and spread my mission, I decided to franchise Derma Circles,” she pointed out. To start the ball rolling, she consulted Francorp, a leading franchise consulting company, and encouraged her to pursue her lofty goal. “I had the right training and education: four years in medical school, passing the physician licensure board exam, another three years for

Dr. Abigail San Pedro-Garcia checking out one of her clients. specialization training on dermatology and its subspecialty cosmetic dermatology, and passing the diplomate board exam under the Philippine Dermatological Society. I keep abreast of trends by attending annual conferences on dermatology here and abroad,” she pointed out.

The driving forces There are two things that motivate San PedroGarcia to grow Derma Circles: the ability to make people feel good about themselves as well as the ability to empower the disadvantaged by giving them employment and hope. “I plan to start with a franchisee or two, preferably in Mindanao, to focus on ensuring their business success. Once we’ve proven that our franchising model leads to profitable business, it will be easy to scale and expand to different parts of the country,” she said. Although profit is the growth driver of any business, Derma Circles is focused on its mission of making people look and feel good by providing quality and personalized services and customer experience with excellent results. San PedroGarcia said the staff or technicians are encouraged to cross-sell their products and services but never compromise the welfare of the client for the sake of sales. “We make sure that we apply integrity in the workplace for our clients to trust us,” she said. “It is my goal to democratize dermatological treatment and care so that people are not forced to resort to cheap services and products that entail high risks to their skin’s health. An equally important part of our mission is providing jobs to women who are not given many opportunities for a job,” she added.

UP researchers caution against parasites in raw vegetables, seafood

cientists from the University of the Philippines (UP) are gently reminding the public to thoroughly wash and cook their market-bought fresh produce and seafood as a precautionary measure against parasites. The parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, called Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), is one of the most infectious parasites in the world. It affects almost a third of the world’s population, most especially vulnerable groups such as the pregnant and immunocompromised. While most people infected with the disease do not present any symptoms, some may suffer flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and muscle aches. But in severe cases, toxoplasmosis can cause inflammation of the brain and blurry vision. Infected parents’ newborn infants may suffer from excessive fluid in the brain and developmental issues. Fortunately, treatments are available for toxoplasmosis, hence symptomatic individuals are advised to seek timely medical attention. Cielo Emar M. Paraoan, Ren Mark D. Villanueva, and Marie Christine M. Obusan of the UP Diliman College of Science’s Institute of Biology (UPDCS IB) found that T. gondii is fairly common in vegetables and oysters that they sampled from local markets in Central Luzon. Among the vegetables tested were lettuce, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, and mung bean sprouts. Six out of 60 or 10 percent collected vegetable samples contained traces of T. gondii, with leafy vegetables found to be more contaminated than root vegetables. Similarly, for oysters, 9.09 percent or four out of 44 samples were also contaminated. The researchers noted that the T. gondii traces found on both vegetables and oysters are of Type I genotype. The researchers aim to investigate further the genotypes of T. gondii that will be detected in the country, as Asia is reported to have a high degree of genetic diversity. The study provides evidence that T. gondii may be transmitted through vegetables and oysters that are being sold in supermarkets and public markets. However, the researchers noted that they only tested a small sample size, and more studies with bigger sample sizes must be conducted. At present, they have an ongoing study that detects the parasite in environmental samples. The study also underscores the importance of adequately preparing fresh produce and seafood to eliminate not just T. gondii but also other parasites that may be present. The authors also emphasized the need for better management of biological pollutants. “The most sustainable approach for reducing the risk of T. gondii exposure through the consumption of seafood should focus on reducing T. gondii contamination at its source, as well as mitigating the flow of contaminated runoff to water bodies,” the authors said in their paper, published in the October 2023 issue of the Philippine Journal of Science.

Health&

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C2 Thursday, December 28, 2023

PhilHealth to adjust benefit package rates in 2024

he Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is set to adjust the rates of most of its benefit packages starting 2024.

PhilHealth must adjusts its rates in order for members to cope with the increasing cost of medical care, PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. said in a statement. “We want our members to feel the value of their benefits which translates to meaningful financial risk protection. Our fellowmen must be able to feel their benefits from Phil-

Health,” he added. The state health insurer first implemented the case rate payment system in 2013, where it reimbursed a fixed amount for a specific medical condition or surgical case. With the set adjustment, the case rates are likely to increase to a maximum of 30 percent across all cases, resulting to lower out-of-pocket expenses during hospitalization and

even during outpatient care.

Inflationary effects To minimize untoward inflationary effects after rate adjustments, PhilHealth will prescribe a cost-sharing mechanism where health facilities and the members will have fixed copayment rates on top of what is being paid for by PhilHealth. This way, health facilities will be more efficient in the use of resources to achieve desired health outcomes while members can predict how much they should pay for amenities and other extra services availed of beyond those provided in basic or ward accommodations. Other strategies to control the untoward effects of this adjustment

include measures to prevent insurance fraud and doctor moral hazard. “This will be our way of controlling healthcare costs, in making member’s expenses predictable, and in discouraging irrational use of healthcare services among facilities,” Ledesma said.

Variable inflation PhilHealth shall adopt a variable inflation adjustment across types of health facilities, which means that higher-level facilities shall get higher adjustments in rates up to a maximum of 30 percent. Ledesma said the upward adjustment in case rates is on top of the ongoing benefit expansion and rationalization that was already approved by the PhilHealth Board.

Measles, rubella cases up by 335%–DOH

he country has logged 2,594 measles and rubella cases for the first 11 months of this year. In a message to reporters, the Department of Health (DOH) said data from January 1 to November 25 translates to a 335-percent increase, or from 596 cases in the same period last year. “Cases are currently showing a steady uptrend, with cases in the recent three to four weeks (October 29 to November 11) at six percent higher. Additionally, a total of 442 cases were reported in the recent four weeks,” the DOH said.

At the regional level, Ilocos Region, Calabarzon, and Zamboanga Peninsula showed continuous increase in the recent six-week period (October 15 to November 25), while the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, Bicol Region, Davao Region, Socsksargen, and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao showed case increases in the recent three to four weeks, reporting two to 253 new cases in the recent four weeks.

Deaths reported For the same period, there were also

16 deaths related to measles and rubella, compared to zero deaths for the same period last year. Measles and rubella can be prevented by vaccines. Children from nine to 59 months or under five years old should be protected through vaccination to keep cases low. Last May, the DOH implemented Measles-Rubella-bivalent Oral Polio vaccine supplemental immunization activity for a month to mitigate the impending risk of a measles outbreak among children under five years old.

The agency was able to vaccinate 8,164,031 or 84 percent of the target population. Meantime, partial unofficial data on the coverage for two doses of measles-containing vaccine is at 45.52 percent as of September 2023. Since quality supplemental immunization activity requires 90 percent coverage of the target population, the DOH urges all sectors and units of government to work together, using primary health care as a platform to reach and vaccinate every missed child. Ma. Teresa Montemayor, PNA

Colgate brings bright smiles, future to Filipino children By Roderick L. Abad

of discipline when it comes to oral health. She said: “I always taught her to keep her teeth clean. It’s important that her mouth is healthy.” For Princess, Dr. Olbez’s dedication to help her classmates maintain good oral health is moving. In fact, she noted that “whenever she has free time, she always checks our teeth.”

Contributor

RAL care provider Colgate Philippines has not only brought beautiful smiles on the faces of children, but also a brighter future ahead of them. Through its Bright Smiles Bright Futures (BSBF) program, Colgate Philippines’ efforts to teach millions of Filipino kids of the value of proper oral hygiene has had a big impact on their dreams. Just like 11-year-old Princess B. Espera who hails from Sorsogon Province, this initiative has inspired her professional aspirations and the path she wishes to follow in the years to come. “When I grow up, I want to become a nurse so I can help people get their smiles back,” she said in mixed Filipino and English.

Start them young

MARY Grace Espera, together with her daughter, Princess Espera. Princess also credits her mother Mary Grace Espera and school nurse Dr. Wilma P. Olbez, who both serve as her role models and supporters in pursuing her dream. Her mom instilled in her a degree

THE school nurse believes it is important to teach children on how crucial oral health is to enhance overall well-being, as recent studies from the Department of Education show cavities are the main reason why kids miss school, thus affecting their learning capacity. Colgate keeps its commitment to ensure a healthier and brighter future for children worldwide via the BSBF program. In the Philippines,

it has so far reached 37,000 public schools and 700 daycare centers in 319 cities and municipalities for 25 years, benefiting 40 million children nationwide. Recently, Colgate returned to Sorsogon Province, increasing the number of orally fit children from 12 percent rate in 2015 to 80 percent in 2022, according to the Field Health Service Information System report. With this continuous partnership, Princess and her counterparts in Sorsogon learn the importance of a healthy smile in numerous facets of life. “Brushing your teeth shouldn’t be scary! The Bright Smiles Bright Futures program helped me realize that smiling makes me more confident to pursue my dreams. Let’s all smile together for a better future!” Princess said.

The Medical City South Luzon holds its 3rd Annual Red Gala

he Medical City South Luzon (TMCSL) held its 3rd Annual Red Gala with the theme “Red Gala Revealed: Walk the Runway for a Cause,” on December 3, 2023, at the Paseo Premiere Hotel in Santa Rosa in commemoration of World AIDS Day. With more than 50 participants who walked the runway in their attractive and creative expression of the Gala theme, the event was also a celebration of TMCSL’s awards in the international awards’ arena in 2022 and 2023, namely the Healthcare Asia’s ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) Award, Hospital Management Asia’s Community Award, and ESG Business Award for Health Equity and Inclusion. The event was organized by various departments and units led by the leaders of the Hospital Infection Control and Epidemiology Center (HICEC) and Center for Reproductive Health and

In the photo are, Dr. Mark Kristoffer U. Pasayan (left), Dr. Monica Pia I. Montecillo, and Dr. Jesus Julio S. Ancheta (right) with PAFPI representatives during turnover of donation STI Treatment (CREST), composed of Dr. Jesus Julio S. Ancheta, Dr. Mark Kristoffer U. Pasayan, and Dr. Monica Pia I. Montecillo. It featured TMCSL’s doctors and staff, other healthcare professionals, beauty queens, and guests who came together to help raise funds for the event beneficiary Posi-

tive Action Foundation Philippines Incorporated (PAFPI), a non-profit organization that offers HIV testing, treatment, care, and support services to persons living with HIV/AIDS in the Philippines. T he event a lso featured song numbers from Guang Ming Cuerdas

of Guang Ming College Tagaytay and TMCSL’s talents. The beneficiary, PAFPI, received a P50,000 donation from the event proceeds. In his virtual message, Dr. Cesar G. Espiritu emphasized the relevance of TMCSL’s Red Gala to the community. “In addition to the monetary aid, an important offshoot of this event is the awareness of the plight of those afflicted with HIV/AIDS. Education is necessary in the elimination of biases and stigma brought about by ignorance. It is through endeavors like this that compassion is encouraged to those who should be treated and cared for just like any other human being,” he said. Truly, TMC South Luzon’s Red Gala has not only become an annual celebration of creativity and style, but a testament to TMC South Luzon’s community involvement and social responsibility.

For 2023, PhilHealth has implemented the expansion of dialysis coverage to 156 sessions from the previous 90 sessions and rationalized the rates for conditions mostly availed of among Filipinos. Through Circular 2023-0021, it increased the coverage for ischemic stroke from P28,000 to P76,000, and hemorrhagic stroke from P38,000 to P80,000. It is set to release a circular before yearend to widen its coverage for pneumonia high-risk from PHP32,000 to PHP90,100. In 2024, Z Benefits for breast cancer shall likewise be expanded, which will include coverage of targeted therapy of up to P1 million per patient per year.

Z Benefits cover 20 catastrophic illnesses and health conditions requiring expensive treatments and hospitalizations: acute lymphocytic leukemia, early breast cancer, prostate cancer, kidney transplant, standard risk coronary bypass graft, tetralogy of Fallot, ventricular septal defect, cervical cancer, Z MORPH (Mobility, Orthosis, Rehabilitation and Prosthesis Help), selected orthopedic implants, peritoneal dialysis, colon cancer, rectal cancer, expanded mobility orthosis rehabilitation help, premature and small newborns, children with developmental disabilities, children with mobility impairment, children with visual impairment, children with hearing impairment, and rheumatic heart disease. Ma. Teresa Montemayor, PNA

Abbott’s Growth Watch empowers parents to beat childhood stunting

lobal statistics show childhood malnutrition is still a persistent health burden, including in the Philippines. According to the Department of Health, one in four children aged five and below are short for their age or stunted. Abbott is increasing awareness and working together with mom celebrities and communities to tackle stunting among children in the Philippines. Abbott’s Growth Watch initiative shines a light on childhood stunting, a form of malnutrition. It aims to empower parents to screen for and recognize stunting in their children so that they can improve their children’s nutrition, if needed. Stunting can challenge a child’s development, impact their overall health and limit their future potential. Children affected by stunting can be at risk of significant immune deficiencies, compromised cognitive function, behavioral problems, diminished bone health, and decreased muscle mass. The Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition 2023-2028 identified poor feeding practices and low nutrition literacy among the causes of malnutrition in the country. Additionally, two in three Filipino moms don’t recognize stunting as an important child development issue. “There is a clear need to educate parents on the prevalence and impact of childhood stunting on growth and development,” explains Dr. Jose Dimaano Jr., nutrition medical affairs director for Abbott in Pacific Asia. “Early identification of growth issues and quick intervention for children found to be at risk of nutrition deficiency can have a profound impact on the fight against stunting. This is why Abbott is taking a multidisciplinary approach in supporting parents by working with communities and healthcare practitioners to provide tools and information to spot the signs of malnutrition and take action.”

Collaborations In collaborating with celebrity moms Chesca Kramer, Nadine Samonte, Divine Lee, Nina Corpuz, influencers and online mom communities, Abbott intends to increase awareness of stunting and support parents with tools and educational resources that can help children reach their full growth potential. ‘’Since its inception in 2021, Growth Watch has educated and reached more than 161,000 fami-

lies, and the goal is to double the reach by the end of next year,’’ said Angelico Escobar, general manager of Abbott’s nutrition business in the Philippines. ‘’Abbott is driven by our mission to help children have a healthy start and reach their optimal growth. We know that malnutrition is complex and affects children’s growth across all socioeconomic classes. The work of Growth Watch is one of Abbott’s efforts to fight global malnutrition and to help children achieve their growth potential through measurement and proper nutrition,” Escobar added. In 2021, Abbott launched the Abbott Center for Malnutrition Solutions, an initiative to reduce malnutrition. The center, a collaboration between Abbott and external experts and partners, is focused on the identification, treatment and prevention of malnutrition for the most vulnerable populations in the world including children, aging adults and under-resourced populations. The Growth Watch initiative also contributes toward Abbott’s 2030 Sustainability Plan goal to transform care for malnutrition, chronic and infectious diseases.

Habit of measuring As part of the Growth Watch initiative, parents and guardians are invited to join mom communities to establish the habit of measuring their children’s height, and provide proper nutrition to safeguard the growth, well-being and development of children across the country. Nutrition plays a crucial role in addressing malnutrition and stunting challenges. Addressing undernutrition early can help mitigate growth issues and ensure children reach their full developmental capacity. For children who do not get enough nutrients through food alone, nutrition supplements, such as PediaSure Plus, can help fill some of the gaps. The oral nutritional supplement, recommended by doctors, is formulated with 37 key growth nutrients including natural vitamin K2 and arginine to support 1.5 times faster growth in 8 weeks and strong bones. For more information on the growth tools and resources, visit https://www.family.abbott/ph-en/pediasure/tools-and-resources.html. For free growth assessment and nutrition counseling, register online or by calling Abbott’s CarelineMetro Manila: (02) 8995-1555 and PLDT toll free hotline: 1-800-10995-1555.

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sMirror

Thursday, December 28, 2023 C3

Innovation, collaboration, shared commitment to health needed vs the next pandemic—PHAP By Rory Visco

Contributor

EGARDLESS of economic and political stature, no country in the world was spared by the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, with varied effects on diverse sectors and industries. Countries closed their borders and imposed travel restrictions to prevent the virus from spreading further, which triggered a massive dip in economic performance even in major and powerful economies since trade was halted. Luckily, all that is in the past now as the global number of Covid-19 patients dropped dramatically. Countries have opened their borders for travel and tourism, international trade commenced once again, and everything, including people’s social activities went back to normal.

The Philippines’ own story of triumph DESPITE the challenges faced by the Philippines, a Third World country, during the pandemic, it never backed down from the fight against Covid-19. The country relied much on the power of innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to health to de-

stroy the dreaded disease. In its report titled “The Power of Innovation,” the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) provided a detailed and insightful perspective of the lessons learned and ways forward coming from a global crisis such as the Covid-19 pandemic. One such insight was how the Philippines, particularly the Philippine biopharmaceutical industry, stood strong and resilient, where it relied on ingenuity and likewise displayed an extraordinary ability to forge strong partnerships and innovative mindset amid the adversity. It also showed how PHAP and its member-companies bonded together and acted swiftly to ensure that essential supplies like testing kits, vaccines and antiviral treatments were accessible and available and that the supply chain was maintained even during the lockdowns in order to protect public health. “Capturing these insights ensures that the knowledge gained from our experiences can serve as a valuable resource for current and future challenges as we fully navigate our way out of the impact of the pandemic. In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, documenting our successes becomes a crucial compass guiding us towards

effective strategies and resilient responses. The ultimate power of innovation lies in its ability to save and improve lives so that the people can contribute to social and economic progress,” said Dr. Diana Edralin, President of PHAP.

Key report highlights AMONG those highlighted in the report was how the Philippine pharmaceutical industry and PHAP members helped the country in the fight against Covid-19 by increasing access to medicines, drive economic growth, and how it fostered collaboration to build healthcare ecosystems. PHAP members also supported frontline workers and worked with the government to facilitate the swift entry of medical innovations such as test kits, vaccines, and even treatments. The organization assisted in helping deliver 245.54 million Covid-19 vaccines as of June 2022. It also fasttracked the launch of diagnostic kits so that companies and families can conduct antigen testing. From antibacterial treatments to monoclonal antibodies, working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), innovative, clinically proven anti-Covid drugs were also made available to minimize severe infections and

improve overall health outcomes for Covid-19 patients. This resulted in better patient load management in hospitals, shorter hospitalization, and reduced strain on the country’s healthcare system. PHAP also partnered with the Department of Health to increase awareness on the safety and efficacy of vaccines and beat vaccine hesitancy. Since 2020, PHAP members also worked tirelessly to make the Philippines a priority country to receive supplies of medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics. It even collaborated with the government in monitoring the supply of needed medicines for both Covid and non-Covid conditions like hypertension, diabetes, antibiotics and cancer, among others, and organized chartered flights to make these life-saving innovations available to Filipino patients amid the global demand and strict lockdowns. The report also stressed the link between health and economic development, particularly investments in health not just for sustaining economic growth but to promote creativity, innovation, and improved quality of life. The PHAP also pointed to the pharmaceutical industry’s vital role to the country’s economic health, reaching P238 billion in contributions to the country’s Gross Domestic

Product, and even in employee development and healthcare professional education. The organization also helped to advance medical research, where it completed and continued over 154 clinical trials in the past two years, where companies introduced 575 novel drugs over the last five years in critical areas such as cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, oncology, and others, as part of its role to propel the nation forward through comprehensive healthcare contributions. The report also showed how digital technology was also vital to help navigate through the numerous complexities of vaccine supply and distribution and empower local government units and enable individuals to monitor their vaccination records. Additionally, pharmaceutical companies actively engaged in multi-channel communication to disseminate critical medical information, while supply chain providers developed apps to streamline vaccine distribution.

Innovation and collaboration were keys THE report highlighted collaboration, where PHAP member-companies collaborated closely with the government and various organizations, and placed high value on building bridges

and partnerships where it worked closely with patient groups, medical societies, hospitals, and healthcare professionals in dealing with the pandemic’s intricate challenges. PHAP also expressed its commitment to collaborative efforts in four key areas, such as support to the country’s journey to universal healthcare, plus sharing of best practices with regulatory bodies like the FDA and Health Technology Assessment Unit with the aim of establishing a world-class healthcare system in the country. It also aims to place the Philippines as a Center of Excellence in Clinical Research in ASEAN through collaborative research for medical advancements. Finally, PHAP will also advance knowledge and technology transfers to strengthen the DOH’s capabilities, such as on pandemic preparedness, human capital development, and supply chain optimization. “The Power of Innovation is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Philippines in the face of adversity. It serves as a poignant reminder that innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to health are powerful tools that can help us prepare for the next pandemic and build resilient healthcare systems as no one sector can do it alone,” said PHAP Executive Director Teodoro Padilla.

Asian Hospital

ends 2023 on a high note

t has been a busy and eventful year for Asian Hospital and Medical Center, one of the leading hospitals located in the south of Metro Manila.

The doctors and staff of the Asian Diabetes Center and Asian Weight Management and Bariatric Center

Officials from Medical Center Imus and Asian Hospital recently signed a memorandum agreement for Asian Hospital’s Engagement and Alliance Linkage Program.

Here are some of the activities that the hospital undertook during the last few weeks of the year:

Asian Diabetes, Asian Weight Management and Bariatric Center ASIAN Hospital formally opened the Asian Diabetes Center and Asian Weight Management and Bariatric Center (AWMB) last November 23, 2023 with activities like the launch of the selfie contest to free blood sugar testing. Dr. Margarita Victoria H. Galicia, endocrinologist and AWMB program director, said the center is dedicated to transforming lives through excellence in healthcare and with the help of a multidisciplinary team of medical specialists. “We understand the unique challenges of weight management and offer a comprehensive set of services to help you achieve your wellness goals,” she said, adding that a decrease in body weight delays the onset, lowers the risk, and prevents complications of diabetes. “It is not necessary to achieve the normal weight. Health and quality

A medical technologist examines a blood sample as part of the HIV Rapid Test. of life begin to improve even with modest weight loss,” Dr. Galicia said.

Brain Attack Team The hospital’s Brain Attack Team recently received platinum status from the WSO (World Stroke Organization) Angels Awards. The WSO is committed to improve outcomes for stroke by ensuring that patients worldwide get access to stroke care that optimizes their survival. As part of this work, WSO has partnered with the Angels Initiative to increase the number of patients treated in stroke ready hospitals and to optimize the quality of treatment in all existing stroke centers. The WSO Angels Awards aims to provide practical support to improve

Asian Hospital’s Clinical Nutrition Services was recognized as best-in-class in Quality Improvement Programs to improve health outcomes of patients with Malnutrition Risk.

stroke care globally, recognize and promote best practice in stroke care and share key leading around implementation of quality stroke care.

Partnership with Medical Center Imus Asian Hospital recently signed a memorandum agreement with the Medical Center Imus (MCI) for Asian Hospital’s Engagement and Alliance Linkage (HEAL) Program. Both hospitals share a common vision of providing the highest quality of care at a reasonable cost to their patients and the community. Asian Hospital was represented by its president and chief executive officer, Dr. Beaver Tamesis, while MCI is represented by its deputy chief

The new and improved Blood Bank and Blood Donation Center is now open to serve patients.

executive officer, Dra. Jo Eileen Suzanne Ringler-Pama during the MOA signing.

Asian Hospital raises HIV Awareness Asian Hospital observed World AIDS Day last December 1 by offering free HIV Rapid Testing at the General Medicine Clinic. Dr. Joseph Adrian Buensalido, an infectious disease specialist, said the hospital, through the General Medicine Clinic, offers hope and compassionate care to people living with HIV. “Our expert team of doctors is committed to providing life-saving treatment and ensuring that all eligible patients have access to free HIV medications. We understand the fi-

nancial burden of healthcare and in collaboration with the Department of Health, we offer free medications to all our patients regardless of their circumstances,” he said. Dr. Buensalido added that everyone deserves to take control of their health and future and that the clinic will empower patients to do so. “We are here to make a difference. Let us remember those we have lost and commit to empowering lives and defeating HIV by getting free HIV Rapid Testing at General Medicine Clinic,” he said.

Asian Hospital Nutrition recognized as Best in Class Asian Hospital’s Clinical Nutrition Services was recognized as best-in-

class in Quality Improvement Programs to improve health outcomes of patients with Malnutrition Risk. The Clinical Nutrition Services was recognized for its relentless drive, passion, and commitment to provide Quality Nutrition Management for all the hospital’s patients. The service was also acclaimed as a trailblazer in providing top notch training for registered nutritionistsdietitians in the Philippines. The team is an accredited provider of trainings for continuous professional development of registered nutritionistsdietitians in the country.

Improved Blood Bank and Blood Donor Center opens The new and improved Blood Bank and Blood Donor Center opened last November 16, 2023, marking a momentous event for selflessness and community welfare. Attended by leaders and healthcare professionals, the inauguration highlighted a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to saving lives and fostering community unity. “The center is not just a structure, it’s a symbol of hope, health, and humanity, emphasizing the collective power of individuals to save lives through blood donation,” said Asian Hospital in a social media release.

Health&Fitness

C4 Thursday, December 28, 2023

BusinessMirror

What’s Best for Brain?

Pfizer’s Rimegepant is first and only medicine approved for acute, preventive migraine treatment

Your Brain Matters P

By Dr. Michael Louis A. Gimenez

of the brain. It is a focal treatment that is not invasive and done on an outpatient basis. It is revolutionary and, has a reputed high efficiency rate of controlling the growth of a tumor that had extended the lives of so many patients for the past three decades.

hat’s in this three-pound mass we all have at the top of our head that invites our curiosity and incites scientists to dig more knowledge into it? A lot, of course, are in this organ we call the brain. It is so complex that it controls our thought, memory, emotion, touch, movement, vision, breathing, hunger, temperature, and what we have that makes our body and soul intact. Together with the spinal cord that extends from it, medicine defines this function as the Central Nervous System or CNS. To deal with not just the great mystery but more so of the immense work involved in it, the Brain and Spine Institute of Cardinal Santos Medical Center was conceived two decades ago as a neurosurgical unit that, over time, has now evolved into a multi-specialty and comprehensive Institute. To understand how complex the Institute works, let us count the ways. Well, we deal with both adult and pediatric brain tumors, different types of stroke, movement disorders, diseases of the spine and the peripheral nervous system, memory problem, insomnia, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and many more. Such conditions can be caused by genetic disorders, congenital abnormalities, infections, or lifestyle issues, among others.

Breaking down of types of patients These are then broken down to as many types of patients and unique cases from as many varieties of

the neuro-diseases. We may have refractory patients or those that do not respond to medications and are difficult to manage. We can have those patients who can be cured in a short span while there can be others whose conditions can be controlled long-term. Along with, and because of, this great length of tasks, the evolution of the Brain and Spine Institute happened so that it has now become a collaboration among multi-specialty experts that brought great strides and wonder in treating patients and improving outcomes. The collaboration and synergy afford us doctors with what we call our own checks and balances. For example, I have my own biases as a neurosurgeon since that was how I was taught and trained. However, when placed alongside the biases of other specialties, we achieve a more extensive insight into a certain condition. Experienced neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic doctors, radiation oncologists, neuro pathologists, and neuro oncologists for both pediatrics and adult patients work hand in hand to come up with the best approach in treating or managing the patients.

Tuesday meeting In Cardinal Santos, we have what we call a Tuesday Meeting among ourselves for the discussion of all

Monitoring symptoms Dr. Michael Louis A. Gimenez, Chairman of the Brain and Spine Institute of Cardinal Santos Medical Center

the cases in our hands. We lay out our best chips to come out with a consensus not only for the treatment or management scheme but also to better educate the patients and their families. To stress this point, if I have taken out a tumor from a patient, for example, and presented it to the team, my neuropathologist will tell me what kind of tumor or grading tumor it is. Then, the other doctors can present their advice and solution based on the contexts of their specialty, training and experience. Then we come out with a formula that is presented to the patient and his family. Patients, especially their families, will generally never be comfortable with any treatment approach unless you educate them first. Alongside this teamwork, the availability of advanced technical and medical armaments at our disposal has also impacted treatment outcomes for the different types of neurological disorders, including malignant tumors. For example, we now have at Cardinal Santos the country’s only Philippine Gamma Knife Center that is a stereotactic radiosurgery unit for brain tumors. It gives a high dose of targeted radiation to the tumor without hitting the rest

Yet, what exactly can people who think they are well and above brain disease do to best take care of their brain? The first thing is for them to be on their toes for any symptoms, especially those that can appear to be quite common like headaches, nausea, and vomiting. There can be pressure signs related to brain problems like the blurring of the vision, weakness or numbness of one side of the body, forms of seizure and epileptic attacks, or, movement disorders like incoordination or imbalance. While most of times these can be common episodes in our lives, we must note that there are cardinal manifestations that gives one a red flag to see a neurologist, a neurosurgeon or an allied specialist immediately. In a nutshell, the progressive nature of these symptoms whether headache, backpain, imbalance, seizure, or blurring of vision will be a clear indication for the need to see a doctor. To illustrate, when a headache, for example, leads into the blurring of your vision, or nausea or weakness in one side of your body, that is a clear sign of a brain problem and the best time to see a doctor. Let’s all mind our brain and let our lives continue to matter.

Redesigned interior, new layout The interior was re-designed and a new layout was followed for more efficiency in delivering health services. Like other SM Foundation-renovated health centers, LED lights, inverter air-conditioning units and a rain catchment system were installed with special faucets in toilets as sustainability solutions while paints used were environment-friendly. To ensure the comfort of waiting patients, SM Foundation equipped

The reception area of the Sta. Cruz Rural Health Unit. the center with new furniture and fixtures, a play cabinet for young patients, and a breastfeeding room for nursing mothers. An added feature of the health center was the provision of a pharmacy with SM Foundation donating basic and essential medicines. The health center was turned over by SM Foundation Executive Director for Health and Medical Programs Connie Angeles to the municipality of Sta. Cruz local government led by Mayor Edgar San Luis who expressed his gratitude to SM Foundation. Dr. Elmina De Luna Monteza, Municipal Health Officer of Sta. Cruz, shared that the health center is manned by two full-time doctors, eight full-time nurses, 28 midwives, two doctors from the Mayor’s office and six sanitary officers. These medical and healthcare pro-

The reception area of the Lucban Health Center. fessionals are responsible for dispensing health services to the constituents. These include child health program (immunization and newborn screening), nutrition health program, oral health program, adolescent and youth health program, maternal health program, reproductive health program, infectious disease prevention and control, healthy lifestyle and smoking cessation program, disaster risk reduction management for health, epidemiology and surveillance, among others.

Gift to Baguio City Meanwhile, SM Foundation gifted Baguio City with a newly renovated and refurbished Lucban Health Center. It was turned over by Angeles to Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. The 2-storey Lucban Health Center

fizer Philippines recently announced the availability of Rimegepant, a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist, for both the acute treatment of migraine and the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in adults who have at least four migraine attacks per month. More than one billion people worldwide live with migraine and the World Health Organization classifies migraine as the second leading cause of disability in the world. In the Philippines, there are approximately 12 million people living with migraine. Migraine disproportionately affects women, occurring two to three times more in females than in males. Migraine is characterized by debilitating attacks lasting four to 72 hours with multiple symptoms, including pulsating headaches of moderate to severe pain intensity that can be associated with nausea or vomiting, and/or sensitivity to sound (phonophobia) and sensitivity to light (photophobia). “We at Pfizer take pride in bringing our breakthrough anti-migraine treatment in the country today as we believe migraine is not just a headache but a chronic, painful disorder that takes away many days and hours that are supposed to be spent in meaningful and productive engagements. Migraine is associated with significant impact on daily living, such as work and personal activities. Based on an article published at the

Journal of Headache and Pain by Haw, et al 2020 migraine poses a significant threat to work productivity in the country,” said So-Myung Lim, Pfizer Philippines Country Manager. Results from the Phase 3 study published in Lancet demonstrated that a single dose of Rimegepant provided superior pain reduction and associated symptoms of migraine at two hours compared to placebo. The prevention study, also published in Lancet, demonstrated that Rimegepant taken every other day provided superior reduction in the number of days per month with migraine in Weeks 9 to 12 of the 12-week treatment period compared to placebo, that was maintained with continued dosing during the 12-month open-label extension period. “Believe it or not, headaches are disabling! Migraine affects people in the most productive years and unable to fully enjoy their lives. The launch of a novel anti-migraine treatment such as Rimegepant in the country can be a game-changer, especially for those with incapacitating attacks of migraine. This is indeed a welcome development that we hope can provide solutions to many of our patients.” said Dr. Artemio A. Roxas Jr., President of Philippine Headache Society. Rimegepant is approved in over 20 markets to date and is now available in the Philippines. Healthcare professionals will be able to decide how they want to prescribe Rimegepant based on the locally approved dosing.

MakatiMed nurses dominate inaugural Soledad Velez-Pangilinan Nursing Excellence Awards

Dr. Michael Louis A. Gimenez is a Neurosurgeon, and the Chairman of the Brain and Spine Institute of Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC). To inquire about the Institute’s services, call +02 87280001 ext. 5303.

SM Foundation inaugurates 200th and 201st renovated health centers he last few weeks of 2023 were busy ones for SM Foundation as it inaugurated the 200th and 201st renovated health centers in Sta. Cruz, Laguna and in Baguio City respectively. At the site of the once tumbledown and gloomy health center in Sta. Cruz, Laguna now stands a polished health center with its cheerful and comforting atmosphere. The transformation was made possible by SM Foundation as part of its commitment to help the government ensure adequate health services to residents at the barangay level. The health facility, Sta. Cruz Rural Health Unit, is the 200th health center refurbished and renovated by SM Foundation. According to SM Foundation Senior Project Manager Albert Uy, the health center had to be completely renovated with the replacement of its parts: from the roof, ceiling, walls, down to the floor. It is a PWD friendly facility with special toilets and ramps specially made for them.

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located in Brgy. Teodora Alonzo with a total population of 38,000 is the 201st wellness center rehabilitated by SM Foundation. It serves an average of 20 to 30 patients daily. It is one among the 16 health centers in Baguio City. Health officials of Baguio welcomed the renovation undertaken by SM Foundation. Dr. Ma. Lourdes Pakoy, Acting Assistant City Health Officer and Medical Officer of the Lucban Health Center said the repair and renovation done by SM Foundation has provided a comforting atmosphere for the patients and has given them the privacy when seeking consultation and treatment. “There is now a clear delineation of work areas” and activities can be planned with enough space even if these are scheduled simultaneously, she added.

wo exceptional nurses from Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) were recently honored at the inaugural Soledad Velez-Pangilinan Nursing Excellence Awards (SVP-NEA), the Metro Pacific Health (MPH) Nursing Excellence Award. This recognition celebrates nurses who exemplify the values of MPH in providing exceptional and holistic care with compassion to patients. To be eligible for the Soledad Velez-Pangilinan Nursing Excellence Awards, nurses must have worked in MPH hospitals for at least three years. The performance period for these awards covers the full year 2022 to August 2023. Recipients must also exemplify MPH’s values as a clinical nurse, nurse educator, or nurse leader, and exhibit good moral character and professional standing. Out of the three awards presented by MPH, Makati Medical Center managed to secure two titles: the Excellence in Nursing Education Award and Excellence in Nursing Leadership Award. The hospital has a long-standing tradition of excellence in patient care and nursing services. It is in this esteemed environment that two of their remarkable nurses have thrived and demonstrated their outstanding skills and dedication.

The awardees Daryl Jeremiah R. Gaba, MAN, RN, CLSSYB, Assistant Director of Nursing and Patient Care Services (NPCS), received the “Excellence in Nursing Leadership 2023 Award ” for his exemplary leadership and the positive impact he has on the nursing team and the hospital. Gaba embodies

the values of MPH as a clinical nurse and nurse leader, contributing significantly to the hospital’s commitment to patient care and well-being. He has spearheaded various programs that helped improve operations in Ma k atiMed and boost employee morale, with programs such as the Hospital-wide Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Project–Nursing, Emergency Department, Inpatient & Admitting (NEIA) Project for the significant reduction of Emergency Department boarding time for patients, Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification for Nurse Leaders, Excellence, Professionalism, Integrity, Compassion, and Teamwork (EPICT) Performer of the Month (Core Values based Employee Reward); and many more. Joshua Jaime P. Nario, MA, RN, CLDP, Senior Program Manager in NPCS-Nursing Education, Research, and Development (NERD), was recognized with the “Excellence in Nursing Education 2023 Award.” Nario’s dedication has had a profound impact on the learning and development of nurses at MakatiMed, making him a deserving recipient of this esteemed award. He initiated various education programs for MakatiMed Nurses such as the Competency Enhancement program for Clinical Care Associates (formerly called Nursing Assistant program), Graduate Studies Assistant Program, and MakatiMed Nursing Learning and Development Program, among others. Gaba and Nario represent the very essence of MakatiMed’s dedication: delivering the highest standards of patient care and continuously striving for excellence in the field of nursing.