BusinessMirror June 02, 2022 by BusinessMirror

PHL to fix weak spots in path to $500-B dream B S A  A C Bloomberg News

HILIPPINES’S incoming economic planning secretary Arsenio Balisacan plans to bolster the economy’s weak spots as he targets at least 6-percent annual growth throughout the term of President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The next administration must boost investment in agriculture and manufacturing and build infrastructure to grow the economy between 6-8 percent annually to 2028, Balisacan said in an interview Wednesday. Farm and industry output currently account for less than 40 percent of gross domestic product, while

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services contributes the majority. “I would like to see those weakest points as the priority of the administration,” said the 64-year-old, who’s currently chairman of the nation’s antitrust commission. Consistently growing at the rate of 6 percent for six years will make Philippines a half-a-trillion dollar economy, according to Bloomberg calculations. The nation’s first-quarter expansion of 8.3 percent is already among Asia’s fastest, thanks to the reopening from the pandemic. Still, Marcos’s team faces immediate challenges: inflation is at its fastest in three years, budget deficit has widened and the global outlook has dimmed. Still, Balisacan said the economy can expand by at least 7 percent this

year, within the official growth estimate, riding the recovery from the record contraction in 2020 due to the pandemic. He said he will push for more targeted support measures to ease inflation’s burden on the poor while ensuring “tight” government finances are managed properly. “We can achieve more with less,” he said, adding that a review and streamlining of beneficiaries are needed. The nation also cannot afford removal of certain taxes on goods as proposed by some sectors, he said.

Experienced economist

BALISACAN will draw from his experience in crafting a new economic development plan. Before taking helm of the antitrust body, he served

as economic planning secretary of the late president Benigno Aquino from 2012 to 2016. To sustain economic growth of at least 6 percent, the next administration must address red tape and build infrastructure needed to attract investment in manufacturing and agriculture, said Balisacan, who holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Hawaii. Given a budget deficit inflated by pandemic-era support programs, companies and multilateral development agencies may be tapped to finance roads, rail and irrigation, he said. Balisacan helped manage the Aquino administration’s flagship public-private partnership infraS “PHL,” A

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Thursday, June 2, 2022 Vol. 17 No. 237

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ON NEW ECONOMIC TEAM’

THE BRP Melchora Aquino, the second of two multi-role response vessels procured by the Philippine government from Japan, is welcomed by the Philippine Coast Guard at the Port Area in Manila on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, completing its maiden voyage from Japan. Constructed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. in Japan, the ship, named after Tandang Sora, the Grand Woman of the Revolution during the Spanish colonial period, is part of the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project of the Coast Guard. ROY DOMINGO

B C U. O

@caiordinario

HE performance of the Philippine economy in the second half of the year will rest squarely on the shoulders of the incoming administration’s economic team, according to a local think tank. In its latest Market Call report, First Metro Investment Corp. and University of Asia and the Pacific (FMIC-UA&P) Capital Markets Research said the growth momentum which gave rise to the 8.3-percent growth in the first quarter will spill over to the second quarter. However, the performance of the economy in the third and fourth quarters will be determined by the policies to be implemented by the new economic team. Much uncertainty will greet the economic managers as the pandemic continues and commodity prices remain elevated. “The robustness in the economic recovery, founded heavily on employment gains, should spill over into Q2 [the second quarter]. And while a tighter fiscal space and inflation pose serious headwinds in H2 [second half], an economic team of high-quality technocrats in the new President’s

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cabinet can handle the emerging scenario,” the report stated. One of the major risks that post the most uncertainty to the economy is the Russia-Ukraine war which will mark its first 100 days. The war began in February 24 this year and will reach 100 days on June 3. FMIC-UA&P Capital Markets Research said commodity prices, particularly oil prices, could remain elevated until the war in Eastern Europe is resolved. This uncertainty will lead to an average inflation of above 5 percent in the country this year. In April, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that inflation nationwide increased to 4.9 percent in April 2022. The average inflation for the first four months of the year stood at 3.7 S “H,” A

Sotto closes ‘productive’ PANDEMIC CHALLENGE session; Zubiri next SP? MARKS 18TH CONGRESS B J M N. D C @joveemarie

HE House of Representatives on Wednesday ended the 18th Congress, highlighting its 3-year achievements, including laws to help the country navigate through and emerge stronger from the Covid-19 pandemic. In his valedictory speech, Speaker Lord Allan Velasco said the 18th Congress was a key and steady partner of President Duterte in passing laws that promoted economic development, strengthened the administration of justice and the rule of law, enhanced the protection of labor and social welfare, improved the quality of and increased access to education and information, enhanced our health and emergency response system,

and strengthened our political and governmental institutions. “Despite the many challenges that happened during my tenure as your Speaker, we have risen and proven ourselves to be One Congress, ready to serve our people,” Velasco told his colleagues. “One Congress, ready to scrutinize the national budget, to pass laws, to conduct hearings, to provide oversight on the implementation of laws, and to generally make it easier for the next Congress and its leadership, to continue the legislative work for the sake of our kababayans,” he added. He said the pandemic forced the House leadership to be dynamic, innovative and proactive. “Despite the lingering threat C  A

UTGOING Senate President Vicente Sotto III declared at 7:41 pm of Wednesday as adjourned sine die the third regular session of the 18th Congress on the part of the Senate, capping what Minority Leader Franklin Drilon described as “one of the most productive sessions” of the chamber, a feat made remarkable by the fact that much of it was in a pandemic. His peers heaped praise on Sotto for his leadership, and lauded and thanked as well the seven other “graduating” members of the chamber, including two other pillars—Drilon and Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto. As his “last official act,” Drilon introduced a resolution meant to prevent a month-long leadership gap in the Senate, as the terms of Sotto and Recto end at noon of June 30.

Drilon moved to elect Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri as the acting Senate President Pro Tempore from noon of June 30 until July 25, when the 19th Congress first convenes. Earlier in the day, colleagues signaled that Zubiri had secured the “votes” of majority of senators who will sit in the 19th Senate, a matter confirmed by Drilon. Zubiri appears now to be the only likely candidate to stand for election as the next Senate President, after Sen. Cynthia Villar, earlier touted as a strong contender, announced she was withdrawing from the race. “Wala nang [There is no] SP race,” she told reporters, adding, “I want a simple life” and explained she just wanted to “take care of my advocacy, agriculture,” signaling her desire to keep her chairmanship of that committee. Butch Fernandez

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Source: BSP (June 1, 2022)

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Thursday, June 2, 2022

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percent. The inflation in April is the highest recorded inflation since January 2019. Inflation in April 2021 was lower at 4.1 percent while March 2022 was at 4 percent. “The war remains unpredictable, but the second-round effects of unusually elevated crude oil prices have affected other commodities. With higher inflation comes higher interest rates which impinges on spending by consumers and borrowing by firms,” the report stated. Earlier, the Duterte administration may have posted the highest growth rate in over three decades but economists are not optimistic that this performance is sustainable this year and in the medium term. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) announced that the economy posted a growth of 8.3 percent in the first quarter of 2022. This is the highest GDP growth since the fourth quarter of 1988 when GDP grew 12 percent. However, economists believe that inflationary pressures which marked the skyrocketing oil prices in the second quarter, as well as the mobility restrictions that are still in place will prevent the country from posting higher growth after the first quarter. Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua said the single biggest contributor to the economy’s growth in the first quarter is the reopening of the economy. With many more Filipinos willing to go out and report to their workplaces, more economic activities were made possible. However, he recognized that the lockdown in January due to the Omicron surge and the absence of face-to-face classes prevented the economy from growing faster. He noted that the economy lost P31 billion per week due to the Alert Level 3 status and another P12 billion per week due to the absence of face to face classes.

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PHL joins US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Network of 13 states

B M T-B

@maloutalosig

HE Philippines joined the US-led regional economic grouping called Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), but downgraded its representation during the leaders’ virtual summit called in by US President Joe Biden from Tokyo, Japan.

IPEF is composed of 13 countries led by QUAD nations—US, Japan, India, and Australia—plus seven Asean members Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, as well as Asean partners South Korea and New Zealand. It represents 40 percent of the global gross domestic product, and 60 percent of the world’s population. The US estimates the IndoPacific region will be the biggest

contributor of global growth over the next 30 years. The elephant in the room— China—was excluded from IPEF. China has its own regional economic initiative called Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) which the Philippines is also a member of, although the Senate has yet to ratify the accession treaty. Among the IPEF members, the US and India are not members of

RCEP. It is not known why President Duterte snubbed the summit launch on May 23, which was held virtually online. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, who represented Duterte, read his statement last May 23. In a statement, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs said IPEF regional partners “placed emphasis on ensuring that the IPEF is open to all countries in the region, is mutually beneficial, translates to concrete action plans, and with Asean at its core.” US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan clarified that IPEF will be an “open platform” and would welcome other membercountries who would like to join them. However, unlike RCEP and the defunct US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership, US President Joe Biden wanted the US re-engagement to Asia with a twist. “IPEF is not a traditional free

trade agreement and is in fact a feature of IPEF, not a bug,” Sullivan stressed. The US said IPEF is a “21st century economic arrangement” that targets to address 21st century economic challenges that also transgresses governance issues—such as digital economy, supply chains, clean energy infrastructure, clean energy transition, transparency, fair taxation and anti-corruption. “Reading the remarks of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Secretary Lopez acknowledged the general alignment of the broad themes of the IPEF in advancing resilience, sustainability, inclusiveness and competitiveness and the Philippines’ economic and development priorities. The Philippines sees the IPEF as complementing individual and collective efforts towards inclusive recovery, and US support for Asean member-states in the pursuit of IPEF initiatives will be critical,” the DFA said in a statement.

PHL...

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structure program. Funneling investment into lagging sectors is also crucial in creating jobs and bringing down the poverty rate to 9 percent from 23.7 percent as of mid-2021, Balisacan said.

Farming family

THE incoming economic planning secretary is widely seen by analysts to bring poverty and rural development flavors into policy making, thanks to his background. Born into a tenant-farmer family in Ilocos Norte province, where the Marcos family also hails from, Balisacan took up agriculture in college before venturing into economics for his graduate degrees. His first job was to survey farmlands for an agriculture research agency, he said. “That exposed me to many problems of farmers around the country.” Asked why he accepted his new post, Balisacan, whose family was looking forward toward his retirement next year, said it was “call of duty.” He was adviser to Marcos when the incoming president was Ilocos Norte governor. “I was surprised,” he said about Marcos’s offer. “I don’t mix politics and my work. Politics is not in my DNA, fortunately or unfortunately.”

PANDEMIC CHALLENGE MARKS 18TH CONGRESS C  A

of Covid-19, we approved much-needed emergency pandemic response measures, and despite some political challenges, managed to pass the 2021 and 2022 national budgets on time.” Despite restrictions in the workplace, House Majority Leader and Leyte First District Rep. Martin G. Romualdez, for his part, said lawmakers worked relentlessly and managed to adopt and approve on third reading at least 1,600 legislative measures since the start of the 18th Congress on July 22, 2019. According to Romualdez, more than 300 of these measures had been enacted into law, a number of which were crafted to address the ill effects brought by the pandemic. He said the most significant of the laws passed were the Bayanihan 1 and 2, which allowed the release of billions of pesos for pandemic response. Moreover, Velasco also listed some of the vital pieces of legislation he labeled “Tulong, Tatag, Tapang and Malasakit.” He said the 18th Congress passed key economic laws or “Tulong” bills that are expected to facilitate the country’s recovery from the pandemic, including the amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, the Foreign Investments Act, and the Public Service Act. According to Velasco, the passage of these economic liberalization laws marks an important landmark meant to ease restrictions and will help bring in projected investment leads of $100 billion over a two-year period, and create more jobs for Filipinos that would help drive the country’s economic recovery. Aside from the Bayanihan laws, Velasco said the outgoing Congress also passed several laws as our “Tugon” measures for the pandemic, such as the vaccine procurement

law and the Streamlining Government Services in Times of National Emergency Act. He said the best “Tugon” for the pandemic remains the timely passage of the 2021 and 2022 national budgets, to fund the pandemic-response programs of the national government. The 18th Congress, he said, also passed other social and consumer protection laws such as Republic Act (RA) 11765, which gives more protection to consumers of financial services, and RA 11712, which grants mandatory continuing benefits to our health-care frontliners. Velasco also cited institution-building, or what he called the “Tatag” bills including RA 11768, strengthening the Sangguniang Kabataan; RA 11713, supporting teacher education; RA 11709, creating fixed terms for key officers of the armed forces; and RA 11697, paving the way for the development of electric vehicle industries. The House leader cited what he called “Malasakit” laws such as RA 11767, seeking to promote the rights of foundlings or abandoned children; RA 11650 ensuring inclusive education for learners with disabilities; and RA 11648 providing stronger protection for children against sexual abuse and exploitation by raising the age of sexual consent from 12 to 16. Velasco noted the enactment of laws that promote justice and peace, such as the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act, and RA 11696 or the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act. Romualdez, meanwhile, noted that no Congress in modern times had experienced a global pandemic that required people to stay indoors, limit their movement and prevent public gatherings. “I am in awe of the dedication to service and fortitude displayed by Members of Congress and our House employees. They worked beyond the call of duty, at times of uncertainty and abnormality, to make the 18th Congress one of the most productive ever,” Romualdez said. “The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic posed a big challenge for us here in the 18th Congress. How do we resume work and protect our people from the ravages of the pandemic when senior citizens and people with comorbidities are discouraged from going out of their residences?” he said. “It was a good move to embrace technology that allowed House members to participate in

all proceedings through electronic means including email, teleconferencing, and messaging apps,” he added. Despite the hybrid sessions, Romualdez said a number of congressmen and House employees still reported for work daily at the risk of catching the virus. For his part, House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Joey Sarte Salceda said the last day of the 18th Congress caps what has been one of the most difficult periods in the country’s recent history. “First, we stuck to the idea that tax breaks are tax expenditures, and should therefore justify their costs through overriding economic gains. Fiscal incentives reform has been a fight I have been doing since the 1990s, when I first proposed the Subsidy Council Act, which became the core of the CREATE Law. The idea that fiscal incentives should only be given when their benefits significantly exceed their costs, and only when they absolutely necessary to trigger a certain desirable economic outcome, is now in our law books,” he said. “We have also introduced the idea of accountability in tax incentives in the law. There is a clawback clause in CREATE: If you bloat your promised benefits to get tax incentives, you have to pay the state back when those benefits fail to materialize,” he added. Salceda said these tax reforms grew revenues significantly, to the tune of around P229 billion annually. “The idea that fiscal space should be expanded in good times [2019] so that we have something to lean on during bad times [Covid era in 2020-2022] is now a principle that fiscal and economic managers can abide in succeeding administrations. This was not the mindset during the Aquino era, or even prior. Back then, we only raised taxes once the crisis was impending,” he said. Congress also introduced taxes on POGO and proposed taxes on e-sabong, taking into account the increasingly digital nature of gaming. Meanwhile, the House also paid tribute to nine members who died while serving in the 18th Congress, saying they “served as our collective inspiration to continue our work for the people.” The nine are Representatives Resurreccion Acop (Antipolo City, second district), Rodolfo Albano (LPGMA Partylist), Marissa Andaya (Camarines Sur, first district), Carlos Cojuangco (Tarlac, first district), Francisco Datol Jr. (Senior Citizens Partylist), Raul del Mar (Cebu City, first district), Nestor Fongwan (Benguet), Marisol Panotes (Camarines Norte, second district), and Ditas Ramos (Sorsogon, second district).

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BBM urged to declare 1K key govt posts vacant

PCG files raps vs 4 MV ‘Happy Hiro’ officers over Palawan vessel collision By Rene Acosta

Islands’-registered vessel. The four were identified by the PCG as Croatian Meshay Amir, who is the ship master; Romanian Bogdan George Antonie, who is the vessel’s second mate, and ship officers Tyrone Albina Maquiling and Mckinley Panuncialman Amante, who are both Filipinos. The PCG said the ship, which is on hold in the waters of Lipata, Culasi, Antique, was also fined for leaving port without Coast Guard clearance and for its master’s failure to accomplish Master Declaration of Safe Departure (MDSD). The Happy Hiro was on its way to Australia from China when it fig-

@reneacostaBM

C RIDON

ITH the Commission on Appointments (CA) bypassing chairpersons and commissioners of constitutional commissions, a public policy think tank is calling on the incoming Marcos Jr. administration to similarly declare a vacancy on more than 1,000 “almost midnight” appointments made by the outgoing Duterte administration. “In March 2022, President Rodrigo Duterte made more than 1,000 presidential appointments to various executive agencies and government corporations. This includes appointments to constitutional offices, commissions with fixed terms and permanent appointments of Civil Executive Service Officers [CESO]. Consistent with the CA bypass of appointments in constitutional offices, the new President should be given the free hand to choose the replacement of these almost midnight appointments.” This was the statement of Terry Ridon, Infrawatch PH convenor and former chair of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor.

Clean sweep

RIDON said commissioners with fixed terms and CESOs appointed close to the appointment ban effectively ties the hand of the new administration from determining its policy agenda in various departments and commissions. “With the new government rejecting tax proposals from the outgoing economic team, it is clear that the new President seeks to undertake a clean sweep of current policy. Correspondingly, this requires a clean sweep of existing high-level personnel in various government agencies.”

Commissions with fixed terms

RIDON said one example of commissions with fixed terms is the Climate Change Commission, in which the current Vice Chairman with the rank of Secretary has been appointed only in March 2022. “As this position has a fixed term, the new President has essentially been deprived of his choice to lead the climate agency for the next six years.” Ridon said President Duterte also made almost midnight appointments to the Philippine Competition Commission and the Human Settlements Adjudication Board. Similar to the Climate Change Commission, the commissioners in these agencies have fixed terms.

CESO ‘backdoor’

RIDON also said that the new government should also look into the appointment of new CESOs who only joined government in the current administration and those who may have violated appointment regulations. “There is at least one almost midnight appointment of new CESOs in March 2022 who never had a track record of high-level executive service previous to the current administration. There is also one new CESO appointee who had been dismissed by the current President, in violation of career executive service rules. Under any measure, the new President should not allow these appointments to continue.”

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Thursday, June 2, 2022 A3

HARGES have been filed against four key officers of the MV Happy Hiro, the cargo vessel that figured in a sea collision with FB Jot -18, in the waters of Palawan over the weekend, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Wednesday. Charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple injuries and damage to property were filed on Tuesday before the prosecutor’s office in Antique against the four officers, two of them Filipinos, of the Marshall

THE cargo vessel MV Happy Hiro. PHOTO COURTESY OF PCG

Gordon to peers: Give Pharmally Blue Ribbon report formal closure By Butch Fernandez

@butchfBM

HE chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee made a final pitch for his colleagues to finally vote on the draft committee report prepared by his office into the Pharmally pandemic supplies fiasco, which probers estimate to have cost some P10 billion in anomalous contracts. Late Tuesday, Sen. Richard J. Gordon delivered a privilege speech to “inform the public of our findings of these matters of public interest investigated through 18 hearings throughout seven months, detailed in our Report, and I move that our Draft Report be inserted into the Senate’s Records.” The Senate chief prober lamented that as Congress was set to wind up Tuesday afternoon, before the 18th Senate was to adjourn (from June 4 to July 24), only eight members of the Blue Ribbon have signed the report, meaning, it lacked two more signatures to be tackled in plenary and voted on. Gordon said that the members should at least act either to endorse the draft as is or indicate their intent to raise reservations on some items or vote against it. But, he stressed, it was important for the plenary to tackle the report, given its subject matter is of “transcendental importance amounting to at least P11 billion of the people’s money,” and at stake is “the integ-

rity, dignity, and independence of the Senate.” He reminded that the Committee on Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations (Blue Ribbon) was created primarily “to make findings [or judgments], if you will, on malfeasance, or nonfeasance, committed by public officers and their cohorts, e.g., those in the private sector. Therefore, the Senate is accountable, too, to the people to report on its findings and to tell the people what we have done in this investigation. We owe them no less.” Gordon reminded his peers that the committee’s “findings or recommendations are of great persuasive nature, especially when seen in the light of the convictions of former Commissioners Argosino and Robles of the Bureau of Immigration; and the filing of criminal cases and eventual detention of the accused in the drug cases that we had previously investigated.” For this particular investigation on Pharmally, Gordon said, “We owe it to our constituents—the people of this Republic—whether or not we are in favor of the draft Partial Committee Report. Our mandates command us no less.” “At the onset, I was touched by our health-care workers, who,” he added, “despite being our frontliners, had to plead with the government just so they could receive the salaries, benefits, and allowances.”

Bicameral CA bypasses five Duterte nominees in Comelec, COA and CSC

IVE nominees of President Duterte were officially bypassed by the bicameral Commission on Appointments, which lacked a quorum to hold its last plenary hearing on Wednesday as the 18th Congress prepared to end its session. Bypassed were Commission on Elections Chairman Saidamen Pangarungan, and Commissioners George Garcia and Aimee Neri; as well as Civil Service Commission Chairman Karlo Nograles and Commission on Audit (COA) Chairman Rizalina Justol. Under the law, the bicameral CA must approve all the ad interim appointees, whom Duterte appointed in March when Congress was in recess. The three Comelec officials played key roles in the recent May 9 general elections. The confirmation of all five officials first hit a snag last Monday when Senate Majority Leader Juan

Miguel Zubiri said it is better not to confirm them to their 7-year term to give the incoming administration of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. a free hand. However, Sen. Koko Pimentel disputed Zubiri’s argument, noting that the five are appointees to constitutional offices, and are thus expected to be independent. Whoever appoints them should not really be a big issue, added Pimentel. In an interview with CNN Philippines, Comelec Commissioner Garcia said he was saddened by the bypass, but happy for the chance to serve in the last elections, where he stood out, often holding briefings. The veteran election lawyer said he may return to teaching, or practice election law. However, when asked if he would accept if President-elect Marcos nominates him to Comelec, Garcia said yes.

According to Sen. Imee Marcos, several senators like her did not sign the Blue Ribbon report, even if they participated in the hearings because they felt that Gordon’s conclusion of President Duterte among those to be held accountable—for betrayal of public trust—tended to weaken the report since the evidence was not strong in that regard. Gordon, however, noted in his privilege speech that the main players in the apparent scam were emboldened by their ties to the President, who also publicly bullied the senators, as well as the Commission on Audit, in a bid to discourage them from probing the matter. Particularly close to Duterte is Davao businessman Michael Yang, whom Gordon said had financed the operations of Pharmally. “But our investigation further led us to a clear, disconcerting, and evidence-based findings of fraud, waste, and abuse pursuant to the Report of the Commission on Audit. When we went further down that rabbit hole, the Executive viciously attacked COA and the Senate.” Since then, Gordon added, “issues of grave importance—the separation of powers among the great branches of government; the right of the Senate to exercise its oversight functions; and, the right of the public to know—have arisen.”

ured in a collision with the Filipino fishing vessel FB Jot-18 bearing 20 fishermen in the vicinity waters of Maracanao Island, Agutaya, Palawan at past 5 p.m. on Saturday. As a result, 13 of the fishermen were injured while the seven others remained missing. Their boat also sank. Almost all of the distressed fishermen were residents of Bantayan Island, Cebu while one of them is from Estancia, Iloilo. PCG Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu said on Wednesday that the Filipino fishing vessel was anchored as it encountered engine trouble when it was struck by the cargo vessel.

BBM, Sara told: Tap the best and the brightest in Cabinet

O help incoming administration build a solid foundation for economic rehabilitation and consistent growth in the postCovid-19 era, a vice chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations on Wednesday called on incoming President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte to continue what they have begun—tapping the best and brightest in government. In a speech, Northern Samar Rep. Paul R. Daza said the incoming President and Vice President should continue choosing only the best and the brightest and include the Bureau of Customs in their priorities for “cleansing.” He said that choosing the best ones for the job is critical to economic recovery, which is greatly reliant on efficiency in revenue collection. “Good governance begins with choosing the best and the brightest—and this includes choosing the right ones for critical agencies such as the Bureau of Customs. We must be wary of certain personalities and groups that may have plans to ‘hostage’ the chances of our country,” he said. In his speech, Daza also mentioned “There’s a so-called Samar group in the BOC—composed of insiders, brokers, and fixers. We’re giving Secretary [Benjamin] Diokno advance warning not to allow these people to sabotage the lofty goals of the government and BOC especially now—when revenue generation is critical to the economy.”

“Please don’t bring garbage anymore in the Bureau of Customs. Let’s listen to the people—linisin natin ang ating bakuran, let’s take the garbage out. Huwag na po tayong magpasok ng basura,” Daza said. Daza also highlighted that the quality, values, and commitment of people will dictate the efficiency and effectiveness of public service delivery. “We cannot expect to achieve our revenue targets if the people in our revenue-generating agencies are garbage,” Daza added. He also highlighted the growth projection of Asian Development Bank of 6.0 percent in 2022, with the potential to rise further by 6.3 percent in 2023. Moreover, he also stressed that the employment rate is stabilizing with an estimated rate of 93.6 percent in February this year, up from 91.2 in February 2021. The government also estimated a net employment of 2.9 million above prepandemic levels by the end of 2021. “Certainly, it will not be easy— there will be bumps along the way— but with a robust planning, revenue generation, budgeting, spending, and a united front between the legislative and executive branches, the economy is bound to recover and take off,” Daza said. “Let the historic win of presumptive President Bongbong Marcos and VP Sara Duterte be another important point in our history as a nation—where we, under One Flag, can improve revenue collection by ridding our bureaucracy of misfits and scalawags,” he added.

DENR cites progress on climate resiliency under Duterte admin

HE Cabinet Cluster on Climate Change Adaptation, Mitigation, and Disaster Risk Reduction (CCAM-DRR) chaired by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) believes that the Duterte administration made a significant progress towards a more climate resilient Philippines. Jim O. Sampulna, DENR Acting Secretary made this pitch during the “Duterte Legacy Summit: The Final Report to the People” on May 30, saying Duterte had made great strides in institutionalizing the centrality of environment to the country’s development. “The Duterte administration espoused that a healthy environment is the foundation for economic and social development,” said Sampulna, stressing the Duterte presidency has remained on track with its “Climate Action Pathway,” as a strategy to “enhance resilience and adaptive capacity of the ecosystems and vulnerable communities.” The DENR chief also mentioned the “impossible” cleanup of Manila Bay and the six-month rehabilitation of Boracay Island as two of the administration’s major achievements that define President Duterte’s

legacy on environment and climate governance to “foster a sustainable future for every Filipino.” “Our government has shown real resilience, great concern for the environment, for the people,” Sampulna said. He said that this highlighted how President Duterte has positioned his administration to take significant progressive actions on climate change and disaster resiliency with the creation of the Task Force Build Back Better (TFBBB) by virtue of Executive Order No. 120 to strengthen the climate resilience capacities of communities vulnerable to disasters and climate hazards, especially in Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, and Marikina River Basin. “Phase 1 of dredging in the Magapit Narrows, Cagayan, and Marikina River had been completed, while the removal of critical sandbars restricting the water flows of the Cagayan, Marikina, and Bicol Rivers is ongoing,” Sampulna pointed out. His report was capped with a testimonial from Beverly Calud, a Marikina resident. Calud attested to the marked absence of devastating floods along the Marikina River, which she at-

tributed to the TFBBB’s dredging and widening of the river and watershed rehabilitation along the riverbanks and the Upper Marikina River Basin. The TFBBB’s initiatives were done using a whole-of-government approach supported by the operation of a strengthened quick response mechanism to give immediate relief assistance to indigents living in hazard-prone areas and victims of typhoons and earthquakes nationwide. “Emergency Operations Centers in 17 regional offices and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Centers were established as command-andcontrol points for emergency operations and activities,” Sampulna said. The aspect deemed most salient in the report was the Duterte administration’s commitment to clean energy, which has resulted in the ambitious goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, impose a moratorium on coal power projects, and advocate for the phase-down of unabated coal power and end of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies during the 26th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Jonathan L. Mayuga

A4 Thursday, June 2, 2022 • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

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Group presents agri wish list to incoming BBM admin By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

HE Coalition for Agriculture Modernization of the Philippines (CAMP) has prepared a “wish list” for the incoming administration to boost the agriculture sector that included raising the budget and creation of a new department of fishery and oceans. Topping the CAMP’s preliminary wish list titled “Imperatives for the BBM Administration” is the appointment of an Agriculture Secretary “with proven creative and managerial skills.” The group also recommended the subsequent appointment for its proposed Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO). “The Secretaries must nurture a competent and dedicated bureaucracy that will implement a transformative plan for the Agri-fishery sector,” the document, a copy of which was obtained by the BusinessMirror, read.

The CAMP urged the incoming administration to raise the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) budget to at least 4 percent of the government’s annual budget, making it “comparable with those of our Asean neighbors.” The group also proposed the certification as urgent of a bill that would create the DFO that shall oversee the development of the country’s “modern blue economy.” Numerous bills have been filed at Congress for the creation of a Department of Fisheries, Department of Water, Department of Ocean, and the like. “The primary function of the new department is to develop and manage resources in the oceans and other aquatic ecosystems,” the group said. “Fully operationalize all Mariculture Parks to create alternatives for fisherfolk and anticipate the increased demand for fish products,” it added. The CAMP also proposed the creation of the Bureau of Agri-fish-

ery Industrialization Cooperatives under the DA, which will focus on ensuring that “farmers and fisherfolk get a fair share of the economic benefits from primary industries and lift them out of poverty.” The group added that the Land Bank of the Philippines must create a subsidiary dedicated to providing credit to smallholder farmers, fisherfolk as well as small and medium enterprises in the food system. The group called on the adoption and implementation by the incoming administration of the 10-year National Agri-fishery Modernization and Industrialization Plan (NAFMIP) as well as the Provinceled Agri-fishery Extension System (PAFES) to complement the former. The incoming administration must also hasten the shift of the agriculture sector to renewable energy to achieve energy security and “revive the nuclear energy program,” according to the group. The group added that the next administration must

mainstream crop diversification and digital technology in agriculture. CAMP also proposed the modernization of the Food Terminal Inc. to solve farmers’ perennial problems on high wastage and losses of products by providing facilities for processing and marketing. The next administration should also ratify the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) on “further enhancing efforts to make the agri-fishery sector internationally competitive.” Lastly, the group urged the next administration to curb agricultural smuggling and “rigorously” collect the correct tariffs from legitimate imports, which must be automatically allocated for the modernization of domestic industries. In a rejoinder to CAMP’s wish list, economist Pablito M. Villegas proposed that the next Agriculture Secretary should be a “pro-active member” of the economic team to harmonize agriculture develop-

ment with the “potential and effects and impact of macro prices [wage, inflation, interest and exchange rates].” Villegas, a former vice president of the Land Bank of the Philippines, said the incoming administration might consider creating a Public Private Partnership (PPP)-funded countryside banks that would focus on serving 3rd to 5th class towns. He added that the mandated Agri-Agra Credit Loan must be channeled to projects that are focused on agroindustrial development such as irrigation, logistics and agro-processing facilities, among others. Villegas also proposed the proper implementation of the Sagip Saka Law to ensure farmers’ market and income, as the government’s food needs are estimated at P40 billion and more. The Sagip Saka law allows the government to directly procure food requirements for its programs and projects from local farmers.

DAR, LandBank conduct land assessment and valuation in W. Visayas

HE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) recently conducted land assessment in Western Visayas to gather the necessary data for the appraisal of landholdings under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). Aside from conducting the join field investigation, the activity serves as a mentoring session passing on the necessary knowledge and skills—from the LandBank to the DAR personnel—on how to properly assess and evaluate landholdings covered under the scope of CARP, DAR Western Visayas Regional Director Atty. Sheila B. Enciso said in a news statement. “Field investigations [FIs] are a crucial part of the land valuation process. This activity is important to determine the necessary data required for the appraisal of the landholdings, which, in turn, is a key activity for determining the landowners’ compensation, as well as amortization schedules for payment by the agrarian reform beneficiaries [ARBs],” Enciso said. The activity also aims to orient and train newly created Field Investigation Teams of the regional and provincial offices on how to conduct FI and the preparation of reports. Likewise, it as a venue to discuss and address related issues and concerns on the assessment and appraisal of CARP-covered properties. Joining Director Enciso and Assistant Regional Director Lucrecia S. Taberna were representatives from LandBank Iloilo, Acting Agrarian Affairs Officer and resource speaker Ray H.R. Gonzalez, Property Valuation Specialist Joebert L. Navarra and LandBank Bacolod Head, Atty. Peter V. Cañoso and members of FIT. Jonathan L. Mayuga

Study cites reasons for HCW exodus By Roderick L. Abad

Contributor

@rodrik_28

MID the continued call for better compensation in the medical industry especially this time of pandemic, many of the health professionals or practitioners pursue working overseas mainly to enjoy better opportunities offered by employers in other countries, a study has revealed. Based on results of the new survey conducted by TrueProfile.io from March 10 to 24, 71 percent of 203 Filipino health-care worker (HCW) respondents cited “better career opportunities and prospects” as the top reason why they consider working abroad. Akin to a “greener pasture” as the main driver for the locals from any profession to work outside of the Philippines, 50 percent of those surveyed said they wanted to earn a higher salary, 20 percent were to support their family, and 11 percent wanted better quality of life. Career-wise, on the other hand, 29 percent go abroad for more opportunities for medical specialization, as 24 percent were looking for professional development. Meanwhile, 17 percent wanted to travel and see the world, as 15 percent were looking for personal growth. The results of the survey are not at all surprising, according to the overseas health-care jobs placement platform provider. It cited, for instance, that Filipino health-care workers working in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are given excellent training opportunities, which they can add to their credentials to make them attractive to future employers. They, likewise, enjoy numerous benefits, such as high salaries, housing and transportation benefits. In some cases, reputable hospitals in both Middle Eastern countries even offer bonuses upon contract completion and flight tickets yearly or bi-annually. Per the Department of Labor and Employment and Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, around 850 registered nurses and 50 registered midwives are now needed in Saudi Arabia. Qualified applicants are offered basic salaries of 4,110 Saudi riyal or over P60,000 with annual increase of P4,000. Deadline for application is in June. For updates, visit dmw.gov.ph. Other health-care career oppor t u n it ies a re av a i l able at https://www.trueprofile.io/. Interested applicants need to create an account at https://member.trueprofile.io/register, build a myTrueProfile page, and then set contact settings to the “Recommended” option in order to attract new career opportunities.

Senate ratifies bicameral report on PHL transport safety board

HE Senate on Wednesday ratified the final version of the bill seeking to establish the Philippine Transportation Safety Board (PTSB). Sen. Grace Poe, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Services, presented during Wednesday’s plenary session the bicameral conference committee report, which reconciled the disagreeing provisions of Senate Bill No. 1077 and House Bill No. 9030. “If signed into law, this will be an important milestone for this Congress. Ngunit ang totoong magtatagumpay dito ay ang mga komyuter [But the true victors here are the commuters]. And to this, I cannot thank enough both the Senate and House panels for prioritizing the overwhelming need of the many,” said Poe, who led the Senate contingent in the bicam panel. The PTSB shall be an independent investigatory agency and the primary government body to investigate and

determine facts, conditions, circumstances and causes or threats of all significant transportation accidents or incidents. In a news statement, Poe said that for every investigation, the Board would be required to report out both their factual findings in a Factual Accident Report, and their conclusions and recommendations in a Board Accident Report. The contents of the Factual Accident Report shall be binding on all government agencies and shall be taken judicial notice by the courts. The Board Accident Report, on the other hand, shall not be admissible except in administrative cases. Poe said the Senate and House conferees in the bicam agreed to give the PTSB a more pro-active role as a “standardsetting agency tasked with evaluating and developing evidence-based safety standards that are at par with international standards.”

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Army trains with USARPAC on cybersecurity operations By Rene Acosta @reneacostaBM

HE Philippine Army (PA) is beefing up its cyber defense capabilities as it trains with the US Army Pacific Command (USARPAC) on cybersecurity operations under an intensified defense and security cooperation between the two forces. The PA said the five-day bilateral activity, which will run until June 4, is aimed at developing its cyber capabilities and competencies in conducting defensive cyber-operations and active defense operations. The activity is part of the “agreedto-actions” under the five-year engagement plan of both armies. The cybersecurity training is being conducted through lectures, demonstration of various cyber tools and hands-on practical exercises. A total of 60 Army cyber work force and two personnel from the Communications, Electronics and Information Systems Service, Armed Forces of the Philippines (CEISSAFP)

as well as five USARPAC personnel are taking part in the activity. PA Commanding General Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said that the bilateral activity would help fortify the Army’s cyberdefense capabilities through the development of competencies and skills of the Army’s cyber work force. Brawner stressed that developing a credible and responsive defense posture that could effectively deal fast-evolving threats entails the continuous enhancement of the Army’s cyber-related capabilities. Meanwhile, the Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu with its Army, Air Force and Navy components conducted the Joint Training Exercise (JTX) “Lupah Sug 03-2022” in the island municipality of Siasi, Sulu to boost its war fighting skills and capabilities. “The JTX enhances teamwork. Through JTX, we were able to hone our basic core competency of war fighting and it strengthened our camaraderie as we perform our respective duties and responsibilities,” said Maj. Gen. Ignatius Patrimonio, commander of the 11th Infantry Division and JTF Sulu.

Incoming PCOO chief eyes vloggers’ accreditation for Malacañang events By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

LOGGERS may soon be accredited to cover Palace events during the incoming term of President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. In a televised interview last Wednesday, incoming Press Secretary Beatrix “Trixie” Cruz-Angeles announced this would be among her priority initiatives once she starts her term. “We are, however, pushing for the accreditation of vloggers to be invited to some of the briefings, especially those conducted by the Presidentelect,” Angeles said. During his election campaign, several social media users, who regularly produce personalized video content or vlogs in social media platforms, backed Marcos Jr.

Extortionists trail VP-elect Sara’s path on her way to DepEd post By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox Mindanao Bureau Chief

AVAO CITY—Extortionists continue to hound outgoing Mayor Sara DuterteCarpio, but this time they are using her office at the Department of Education to fleece new victims. Liloan, Cebu Mayor Christina Garcia-Frasco, Duterte-Carpio’s spokesperson, said the extortion has centered on alleged projects to be implemented by Duterte-Carpio. The incoming Vice President has been nominated to the DepEd post in incoming administration. “The office of Vice President-elect Sara Duterte has received informa-

tion about people presenting themselves as her representatives to allegedly collect advance payments for Department of Education projects,” Frasco said. She said the target of these collectors were contractors and suppliers of DepEd. “The incoming Secretary of Education has not nor will never designate anyone to talk to or negotiate with contractors and suppliers to engage in corrupt activities, smearing her reputation and tarnishing the image of the entire DepEd and the thousands of people working hard under the organization,” Frasco stressed. She said contractors, suppliers, and the general public “is strongly

urgedtoexerciseprudencewhendealing with individuals and/or groups claiming to represent the Vice President-elect and incoming DepEd Secretary.” “You may also report these suspicious activities to the authorities,” she said. Extortionists have been reported all throughout her political career, even as a mayor, and heightened anew during her campaign for Vice President. Meanwhile, Police Maj. Teresita Gaspan, spokesman of the city police office, said the city police have already prepared the security measures for the induction of Duterte-Carpio into the office of the Vice President on June 30.

BBM asks SC: Junk petition to cancel COC continued from a20 The group also asked the Court that in the event Marcos’s disqualification is granted, the candidate with the highest number of valid votes, in this case Vice President Leni Robredo, be allowed to assume as the next president. The Buenafe et al petition seeks to set aside the January 17, 2022 and May 10, 2022 resolutions of the Comelec which dismissed for lack of merit the petition they filed against Marcos Jr., for the denial or cancellation of his certificate of candidacy for the position of President, and denying his motion for partial reconsideration, respectively. The petition is anchored on Marcos Jr.’s alleged failure to file income tax returns from 1982 to 1985 while he was a public official in Ilocos Norte. The petitioners argued that the Comelec committed grave abuse of discretion when it gave weight to Marcos’s material representation that he is eligible for the position of President and that he has not been convicted of a crime punished with the penalty of perpetual disqualification from public office. The petitioners stressed that Marcos Jr., has been a public officer for more than 25 years and that he was charged in eight criminal tax cases before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 105 for violating the National Internal Revenue code (NIRC) of 1977, on his failure to file income tax returns for 1982, 1983, 1984 and 1985. The Quezon City RTC sentenced Marcos to nine years’ imprisonment for failure to pay his income tax returns and to pay the taxes for the years 1982 until 1985. Marcos then appealed the case

before the Court of Appeals (CA). On October 31, 1997, the CA reportedly affirmed Marcos’s conviction beyond reasonable doubt for violating Section 45 of the NIRC related to his failure to file income tax returns for the taxable years 1982 to 1985. The CA ordered Marcos to pay the BIR the deficiency income taxes due with interest at the legal rate until fully paid; to pay the fine of P2,000 for each charge in Criminal Cases Nos. Q-92-29213, Q-92-29212; and Q-92-29217 for the failure to file income tax returns for the years 1982, 1983, and 1984; and the fine of P30,000 in Criminal Case No. Q-9124391 for failure to file income tax return for 1985 with surcharges. Marcos appealed the appellate court’s decision before the SC, but later withdrew it. In the Entry of Judgment, the CA also certified that its October 31, 1997 Decision was final and executory. The petitioners said Marcos’s conviction has attained finality after he failed to challenge the CA ruling before the SC aside from his failure to comply with the criminal penalty imposed against him. However, Mendoza said the petition should be dismissed for lack of jurisdiction and lack of merit, stressing that only the Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET) has jurisdiction and may inquire into Marcos’s eligibility. He added that the petition has already become moot following Marcos’s proclamation as President-elect last May 23. “In the case at bar, the Commission correctly dismissed the petition for cancellation of COC. As found by the Commission, there was simply no ground to cancel BBM’s COC.

Thursday, June 2, 2022 A5

Furthermore, far from acting in an arbitrary or despotic manner, the Commission extended reasonable liberality to both parties during the proceedings to ensure that the case shall be resolved fairly and on its merits,” he added. Furthermore, even if the SC has jurisdiction over the petition, it must still be dismissed since the Comelec decision which found no false material representation in Marcos’s COC is a finding of fact that must be accorded respect, Mendoza said. He insisted that the newly elected President did not commit any false representation in his COC because the penalty of perpetual absolute disqualification was never imposed against him. He stressed that the grounds cited by the petitioners in questioning Marcos Jr.’s eligibility are not material since they do not pertain to any eligibility requirements under Section 2, Article VII of the Constitution. That provision states : “No person may be elected unless he is a naturalborn citizen of the Philippines, a registered voter, able to read and write, at least forty years of age on the day of the election, and a resident of the Philippines for at least ten years immediately preceding such election.” Also, the petitioners’ prayer to declare Marcos “to have never become a candidate” and for “the eligible candidate with the next highest number of votes to be proclaimed,” would defile the sovereign will of the Filipino people. “To allow the defeated and rejected candidate to take over is to disenfranchise the citizens representing 58.77 percent of the votes cast, without fault on their part,” the Marcos camp said.

Angeles said she would be reviewing the existing policies of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), including its policy for accrediting social media users.

No takers

IN 2017, the PCOO already issued a Department Order (DO) No. 15 entitled “Interim Social Media Practitioner Accreditation” which allows it to accredit social media practitioners. To qualify for the accreditation, the applicant must be a Filipino citizen, at least 18 years old and has at least 5,000 followers. Acting Deputy Presidential spokesperson Michel Kristian R. Ablan confirmed the DO 15 is currently still in effect. However, no social media user availed of the said accreditation, which would have allowed them to cover President Duterte together

with members of the Malacañang Press Corps. (MPC). Malacañang’s Media Accreditation and Relations Office [MARO] Assistant Secretary Florentino Y. Loyola Jr. said the accreditation was supposed to be handled by the designated Assistant Secretary for Social Media, a position which was previously held by Margaux “Mocha” J. Uson and is now left vacant. “We [MARO] were not able to accredit any bloggers or vloggers,” Loyola said in a phone interview.

Live coverage

ANGELES said she would also be looking into the possibility of finally allowing all media groups to physically cover presidential events amid the pandemic. “I think we’ll have to take a look at the existing policy first and determine, make a decision later on

as to how appropriate they are for the current time, other than that, we’ll have to wait and see pending, you know, a review of all existing policies regarding the coverage in Malacañang,” Angeles said. Currently, the physical coverage of President Duterte remains restricted to reporters, who will be able to test negative for novel coronavirus disease (Covid-19) before the actual event. Also since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, all briefings by Palace officials were held virtually due to concerns of the possible spread of infection in Malacañang. During her term, Angeles said she plans to conduct a regular news briefing once or twice every week. “We’re not going to limit it, of course. If it is necessary, we will have more briefings. But other than that, the plan is one or two at least,” Angeles said.

MMDA chief issues memo on use of unregistered personal vehicles by ‘errant’ agency personnel By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco @claudethmc3

ETROPOLITAN Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Romando Artes on Wednesday issued a memorandum on the use of unregistered personal vehicles and those without the required license plates following reported violations committed by the agency’s traffic enforcer recently. “The MMDA is mandated to strictly implement traffic rules and regulations. Hence, we should lead by example,” Artes stressed. The memorandum, addressed to

all traffic personnel, is in response to the Facebook post of Riders’ Safety Advocates of the Philippines (RSAP), which has gone viral on social media. The post showed an MMDA traffic enforcer, later identified as Wilfredo Ordoña, driving a motorcycle without a license plate on the northbound lane of EdsaBoni last Monday, May 30. According to the memo, MMDA personnel are reminded of their duties to the public, especially traffic enforcers tasked to apprehend motorists committing traffic violations. Artes instructed Atty. Victor Maria Nuñez, Director for Enforcement of MMDA Traffic Discipline

Office (TDO), to penalize Ordoña, currently assigned at TDO Parking Management Team, by issuing traffic citation tickets for his violations. Also, the MMDA chief reminded all employees to refrain from engaging in any unlawful activity. “Violators will not only be issued the corresponding citation ticket but could also face administrative sanctions such as suspension and outright dismissal for contract of service personnel,” Artes stressed. “If proven guilty, we will file the necessary administrative charges, whether permanent, casual, or on job order status, subject to applicable rules and regulations,” he added.

Tawi-Tawi solar project operational by Nov–MinDa

AVAO CITY—The 600-kilowatt (kW) solar project in Tawi-Tawi is set to operate by November this year, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said Wednesday. MinDA Chairperson Maria Belen Sunga-Acosta said the solar power project in the municipality of Sibuto, Tawi-Tawi, aims to strengthen the economicactivity,especiallyintheseaweed farming communities of the area. “This will help the seaweed farmers as they can now sell semi-proc-

essed seaweed products instead of raw materials, which have a lower value. With the help of the facility, the farmers can produce quality products which can be exported to the European countries and our neighboring Asean.,” Acosta said in a news statement. Acosta hopes the project would lead to the establishment of more processing facilities as it will reduce the expenses of the farmers and improve their income. “Hopefully by July, it can be tested

as we expect it will be fully operational by November this year,” she said, adding that the project has securing funding from the European Union Access to Sustainable Energy. In coordination with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and partner agencies, the project is seen to drastically improve the electric supply in the island province. Once completed, MinDA said the project can generate 600kW of renewable energy. PNA

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Thursday, June 2, 2022

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

24/7 CUSTOMER PHILIPPINES, INC. Bm-7/f Mj Plaza Bldg., 106 Valero St., Bel-air, City Of Makati GUJJAR, ROHITH SATYA Treasurer/chief Financial Officer 1.

Brief Job Description: Report directly to the Country Manager, and be responsible for partnering with him with all financial impacting issues of the Company

Brief Job Description: Diagnosing equipment malfunctions and performing repairs.

ZHAO, XIAOLONG Mandarin Site Technical Officer 3.

Brief Job Description: Diagnosing equipment malfunctions and performing repairs.

Basic Qualification: Advanced study and extensive experience in Finance and Accounting

12.

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

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin.

Brief Job Description: Communicates effectively via email and/or telephone in both Mandarin and English language, with our customer base - buyers, merchants and internal customers. SU, DONG Investigation Specialist I

Brief Job Description: Communicates effectively via email and/or telephone in both Mandarin and English language, with our customer base - buyers, merchants and internal customers.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

13.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

14.

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in Vietnamese Language

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

Brief Job Description: Take full responsibility for building product objectives from development until production deployment; Write Go/Python code that is clear, concise, performant, tested and easily understood by others; Ensure all code is covered by automated tests and that all features meet our quality checks before deployment; and Maintain and support core product team micro services written to Go and Python.

BAKKER, SANDRA ANTOINETTE Discipline Specialist 15.

Brief Job Description: Gives data management support on a large complex, on- and offshore dredging & land development project.

OVERMEER, JOHANNES NICOLAAS Discipline Specialist 16.

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

Brief Job Description: Evaluation of the systems’ problems to recommend enhancements.

SOMPRASERTSRI, NATECHANOK Customer Support Specialist - Thai Speaking 8.

Brief Job Description: Evaluation of the systems’ problems to recommend enhancements. WANGSUEP, YONLADA Customer Support Team Leader - Thai Speaking

Brief Job Description: Delegate different duties to team members to ensure a faster and smoother flow of operation through division labor.

Basic Qualification: Experience using help desk software and remote support tools.

Brief Job Description: Gives data management support on a large complex, on- and offshore dredging & land development project.

ANSARI, FIROZ Heavy Equipment Operator Specialist 17.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Experience using help desk software and remote support tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BETUR, INC. (COINS.PH) 30/f Union Bank Plaza, Meralco Ave. Cor. Onyx Road, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

SOBERI TIRTAWIROJI Heavy Equipment Operator Specialist 18.

10.

19.

11.

Brief Job Description: Acts as the company representative to support management and operations

Basic Qualification: Knowledge in Phyton and Go Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

20.

Brief Job Description: Resolves issues utilizing excellent customer service skills

21. Basic Qualification: Knowledge in Phyton and Go Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

22.

Brief Job Description: Install Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a and fiber optic cabling system

Brief Job Description: Assist / help customers, give customers information about product and services.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience; good in oral and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

DAXIFA CORPORATION Mpire Center 93 West Avenue, Project 7, 1, Bungad, Quezon City

Basic Qualification: Knowledge in Phyton and Go

23.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 24.

Basic Qualification: Knowledge in Phyton and Go

25.

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

Basic Qualification: Experience as Discipline Specialist of at least 3 years in dredging and land development industry

26.

27.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Experience as Discipline Specialist of at least 3 years in dredging and land development industry. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Minimum of 10-year experience in dry and wet sand fill in an international dredging and Land reclamation company.

28.

29.

30.

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999 Basic Qualification: Minimum of 10-year experience in dry and wet sand fill in an international dredging and Land reclamation company.

Basic Qualification: Benchmarking vessels performances

31.

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Mandarin and English with good communication skills and preferably 5 years of experience as Chinese speaking cabling infrastructure technician Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

CRONYX INC. No. 4th-10th Flr. Yinhope Bldg., Dela Rama Cor. Zoili Hilario St., Seascape Village, Ccp Complex Subd. Zone 10, Barangay 76, Pasay City

Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email. LIN, HANMING Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email. LIN, HUAYANG Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email. LYU, XINLIANG Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email. SU, ZHICAN Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email. TANG, YINGHAO Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email. TAO, CUIYUN Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email. WU, YUHAO Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email.

Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email.

YANG, HAIYANG Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative 32.

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

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Finish and in English

HUANG, DONGHAI Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative

XIN, CHAO Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative

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

CHINA COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES PHILIPPINES CORPORATION 21st Floor Menarco Tower, 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

YE, MINJUN Chinese Speaking Cabling Infrastructure Technician

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

TRAN THI THOA Chinese Speaking Admin Associate

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

CGI (PHILIPPINES) INC. 2/f One World Square, Mckinley Hill, Pinagsama, City Of Taguig MUURINEN, JOONA HERMAN Multilingual Service Desk Member

FATTAKHOV, LENAR Software Engineer Brief Job Description: Take full responsibility for building product objectives from development until production deployment; Write Go/Python code that is clear, concise, performant, tested and easily understood by others; Ensure all code is covered by automated tests and that all features meet our quality checks before deployment; and Maintain and support core product team micro services written to Go and Python.

Brief Job Description: Operating the company heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

IVANOV, VICTOR Operations Superintendent

AVDEEV, VLADIMIR Software Engineer Brief Job Description: Take full responsibility for building product objectives from development until production deployment; Write Go/Python code that is clear, concise, performant, tested and easily understood by others; Ensure all code is covered by automated tests and that all features meet our quality checks before deployment; and Maintain and support core product team micro services written to Go and Python.

Brief Job Description: Operating the company heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner.

Basic Qualification: Excellent communication and leadership skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Knowledge in Phyton and Go

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

Basic Qualification: Proficiency in Mandarin Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

APRICUS TECHNOLOGY INC. 8/f Aguirre Building, 107 Aguirre St. Legaspi Village, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati SHIN, SOOJUNG Customer Support Specialist - Korean Speaking

No.

SALNIKOV, ANDREI Software Engineer

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

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

MITROFANOV, SERGEI Software Engineer

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

AMAZON OPERATION SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. B21 Three E-com Moa Complex, Harbour Drive Cor. Bay Shore, Brgy. 076, Pasay City NGUYEN THI HOANG KIM Investigation Specialist I

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

KOSTAKOV, ANDREI Software Engineer

ALLIANTPRIME SERVICES INC. Unit No. Unit 2c Flr. No. 4f, One Ecom Center Building, Ocean Drive St., Moa Complex Subd., Barangay 76, Pasay City GU, FEIFAN Mandarin Site Technical Officer

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Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email.

ZHENG, QUAN Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative 33.

Brief Job Description: Addressing customer concerns and issues thru phone call and email.

Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Mandarin speaking customer service representative. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

DIAGEO ASIA PACIFIC SHARED SERVICES CENTRE LIMITED, INC. 10th Floor, Commerce & Industry Plaza Bldg., Mckinley Hill, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

AHN, HEE-YOUNG Customer Service Executive (Korean Speaking) 34.

Brief Job Description: Use the expertise on Korean language to ensure that all customer service related queries are followed up & resolved accurately & efficiently

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Thai both written and spoken. More than 3 years experience in procurement and related management experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

DIGICHROM INC. Unit 2602 & 2603 26/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

35.

KANG, WEI-EN Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Manage incoming and outgoing calls, chats and emails.

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

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

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

HU, HUANHUAN Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk 36.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months customer service experience/good in oral communication and written

No.

DANG BAO NGOC Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 49.

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

HUANG, TINGTING Marketing And Sales Agent 37.

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

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

50.

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

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

38.

Brief Job Description: Understanding Business requirements from various System requirement specification documents and interaction with client

SANDEEP, RAJENDRAN QA Lead 39.

Brief Job Description: Preparation and review of test scenarios, scripts and test cases

Basic Qualification: Business management and analytical thinking skills Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

HAP TIEN CAY Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 51.

OUYANG, SHUANG Account Manager 40.

Brief Job Description: The account 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.

CHEN, TAO Outsourcing Manager 41.

Brief Job Description: The outsourcing 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.

52.

42.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for setting regional goals such as sales estimates and revenue projections, ensuring that marketing efforts are consistent across each store, managing a regional budget, and ensuring that each store operates within the budget, among other duties

53.

CHUA JI LONG District Manager

43.

44.

Brief Job Description: To make sure all the jobs are being done, that basic needs are addressed, and significant decisions are discussed and agreed with the wider team. QIN, ZHONGYUAN Network Planning Deputy Manager

45.

Brief Job Description: Develops, plans, and implement the overall strategic goals of an organization’s network system. Evaluates and recommends changes to current and future network requirements to meet the organization’s needs JIN, MOYUAN Network Qc Manager

46.

Brief Job Description: Control and manage the quality of service, branch action plans by setting quality indicators, annual operation plan including establishing quality control standards for branches

PROMSURIN, KREANGSAK People Management Director 47.

Brief Job Description: Oversees company’s business operations, liaise with stakeholders, drive strategic company growth, and are responsible for the overall performance of the business

HU, LINXIANG Planning Officer 48.

Brief Job Description: Implement and monitor strategic and business plan/ develop organizational and department policies

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

LUONG THI HUYNH Y Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 54.

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

LY SAU LENH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 55.

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

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.

NGUYEN THI VY Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 56.

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

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

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

Basic Qualification: Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 yrs. Supervisory/ managerial experience in logistics or operations/ multilingual THAI NHUT THANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 57.

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

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

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

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

TRAN HOANG NGOC KHANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 58.

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

HAO, ZHUANGZHUANG Mandarin Human Resources Supervisor 60.

Brief Job Description: The mandarin human resources 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.

WEI, DONGHAO Mandarin Human Resources Supervisor 61.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as mandarin human resources supervisor, excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Proven experience as mandarin human resources supervisor, excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

J-NA ALLOUT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS CORP. 3/f Lipams Bldg., #48 President Avenue, B. F. Homes, City Of Parañaque

CHOI, SANGJIN Korean Marketing Consultant 62.

Brief Job Description: Track Main Industry Trends In Korean Through Blogs, Micro Blogs And Forums

Basic Qualification: College Graduate, Speaks And Write Fluently (Korean, English And Mandarin) Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

JAN DE NUL (PHILS.), INC. 302 3rd/f Aseana Power Station Macapagal Blvd., Cor. Bradco Ave. Aseana City, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

WITKAMP, MARIUS REINIER Operations Superintendent 63.

Brief Job Description: Acts as the company’s representative to support management and operations.

DE ABREU MENDES LEAL, TIAGO QHSSE Manager Brief Job Description: To develop, implement, and follow up the quality and safety management of the company and manage the QHSSE team.

Basic Qualification: Minimum 10 years of working experience on international dredging projects. Fluent in English and additional points for Dutch and French. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Minimum 10 years of working experience on international dredging projects. Fluent in English and additional points for Dutch and French. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

JAPANESE HELP DESK INC. S/lp-11 Medical Plaza Makati, 102 Amorsolo St. Cor. Dela Rosa, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

MAEDA, NAO Medical Assistant-interpreter Brief Job Description: Serves as interpreter to Japanese patients.

Basic Qualification: Japanese with good communication skills; and customer oriented. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

JARDINE SCHINDLER ELEVATOR CORPORATION 20th Floor, Insular Life Fcc Tower 1, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa YIN NYEIN THU General Manager

66.

Brief Job Description: Manages the business operation and lead the dynamic workforce in the Philippines. Ensures that business development, finance, installation, service, repairs and modernization work in the branch are professionally managed to meet and comply with the group strategies and company’s standards of safety customer excellence, people development. Quality and integrity & trust.

Basic Qualification: • 5 to 10 years’ experience in management operations head Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

JIU ZHOU TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL, INC. 31/f Tower 6789, 6789 Ayala Avenue, San Lorenzo, City Of Makati PUDCHAIYAPUM, CHUNCHULA Thai Customer Service Representative 67.

Brief Job Description: Maintains financial account; recommend potential products and services; attract potential customers

Basic Qualification: At Least 19 Years Old; Ability to Speak and Communicate in Thai Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

KYODO NEWS Unit 3 19/f Zuellig Bldg., Makati Ave. Cor. Paseo De Roxas, Urdaneta, City Of Makati

68.

SASAKI, KEN Bureau Chief Brief Job Description: Oversee the daily operation of the company

Basic Qualification: Excellent communication skills in Nihongo Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

LEEKIE ENTERPRISES, INC. 8/f Techzone Bldg., 213 Sen Gil Puyat Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati IRINE PUTRI Indonesian-customer Service Support

GHD PTY. LTD. (BRANCH OFFICE) 11/f Alphaland Southgate Tower, 2258 Don Chino Roces Ext. Cor. Edsa, Magallanes, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: At least 10 years relevant experience - excellent knowledge of project management systems related to the production of design documentation - superior design and drafting skills - strong knowledge of Australian building codes and standards - proven technical leadership and active formal mentoring -proven ability to build positive relationships both across our business and externally -relevant tertiary qualification.

HECTECHURE CORP. Units A&b 20/f Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

65. 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.

Brief Job Description: Working closely with the business group leader (bgl) and team leaders to manage the production and delivery of the design documentation and to be the conduit between the local offices and the dws host office throughout the employment lifecycle, including but not limited to recruitment, on boarding, workload coordination, performance planning and qa review, training and professional development and safety/wellbeing.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

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

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

Basic Qualification: Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 yrs. Supervisory/ managerial experience in logistics or operations/ multilingual

59.

64.

Basic Qualification: Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 yrs. Supervisory/ managerial experience in logistics or operations/ multilingual

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

FORTU MARC EVANZ Senior Technical And Direct Workshare Coordinator

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

Basic Qualification: Job-relevant degree/ 5-10 yrs. Supervisory/ managerial experience in logistics or operations/ multilingual

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.

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

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

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

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

LAM THANH NO Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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

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.

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

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

LAM HAN TOAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

FIBERHOME PHILS., INC. U-19d 19/f Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: The account 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.

No.

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

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree or associates with experience in the field; Technical proficiency is a must Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

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.

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

EASTVANTAGE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS INC. Unit 2400 24/f Fort Legend Tower, 3rd Ave. Cor. 31st St., Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig ELANGOVAN, SIVAKUMAR Lead Business Analyst

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

GIP PHAT MINH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

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

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Thursday, June 2, 2022

69.

Brief Job Description: Reports on the daily operations 0f all call center activities performing customer oriented-telephone and activities

Basic Qualification: Possesses bachelor’s degree in any field. Fluent in Bahasa. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

Thursday, June 2, 2022

A6 A8

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

MARUBENI PHILIPPINES CORPORATION L.v. Locsin Building, Ayala/makati Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

CHRISTIAN KISSEHANDLES ANTONIO Indonesian Customer Service Representative 90.

KAKIUCHI, TOMOYUKI Executive Vice President 70.

Brief Job Description: Lead and direct the Plant Department of Marubeni Philippines Corporation

Basic Qualification: Confidential Employee Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above 91.

71.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires AUNG AUNG Burmese Customer Service Representative

72.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires KHIN KHIN LATT Burmese Customer Service Representative

73.

Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming calls and customer service inquires. MYO ZIN WIN Burmese Customer Service Representative

74.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires CHEN, ZHIHONG Chinese Customer Service Representative

75.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires DENG, LEI Chinese Customer Service Representative

76.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires HU, YUNFENG Chinese Customer Service Representative

77.

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

78.

Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming calls and customer service inquires. JING, JU Chinese Customer Service Representative

79.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires KANG, JINBIN Chinese Customer Service Representative

80.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires LAN, PENG Chinese Customer Service Representative

81.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires LI, ZHIMIN Chinese Customer Service Representative

82.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires LYU, XIAN Chinese Customer Service Representative

83.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires WANG, ZHIGANG Chinese Customer Service Representative

84.

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

85.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquiries WU, SHUAI Chinese Customer Service Representative

86.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires YU, JIAJIA Chinese Customer Service Representative

87.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

ZHOU, XIUMING Chinese Customer Service Representative 88.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

ANGELICA CHAROLYNE PHANGESTU Indonesian Customer Service Representative 89.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires HENDRA Indonesian Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 4th-11th Flr. Nexgen Tower, C4 Rd. Edsa Ext., Barangay 76, Pasay City ARR KHWE Burmese Customer Service Representative

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires NG ZHI PENG Malaysian Customer Service Representative

92.

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

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

Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

RUVY HSIEW LU VUI Malaysian Customer Service Representative 93.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

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

TAN CHOON ANN Malaysian Customer Service Representative 94.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

BUI DANG HA Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 95.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

DO QUOC BAO Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 96.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

DOAN MANH HUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 97.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

HOANG THI NHUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 98.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

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

LE BA ANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 99.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming calls and customer service inquires

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

LE VAN QUY Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 100.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming calls and customer service inquires. LE VAN TIEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

101.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming calls and customer service inquires.

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

LUU CONG THANH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 102.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming calls and customer service inquires.

Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

LUU DUC THAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 103.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming calls and customer service inquires

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

LUU THI HUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 104.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming calls and customer service inquires

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

LY VAN HUAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 105.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing Incoming calls and customer service inquires.

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

NGO THI TU Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 106.

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

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

Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

NGUYEN HOANG CHAT Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

107.

NGUYEN MANH DUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 108.

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires. NGUYEN THI HIEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

109.

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

Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

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

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires. NGUYEN THI THANH PHUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

110.

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

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ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

No.

NGUYEN THI TUYET TRINH Vietnamese Customer Service Representative 111.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to Speak, Read, and Write Chinese Language

112.

113.

114.

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires PHAN THU HUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

115.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires PHAM THI THU HIEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires. NGUYEN VAN TRUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires NGUYEN TRONG NHAN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Brief Job Description: Managing incoming calls and customer service inquires

VIJAYAN, SRIJIT Sr. Director, People Services AMEA 116.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

117.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language.

118.

119.

120.

121.

122.

123.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Deep knowledge and awareness of external trends in your area of expertise and ability to translate insights into actionable talent. Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Basic Qualification: Graduate 4 years bachelor degree with critical thinking and problem solving skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Graduate 4 years bachelor degree with critical thinking and problem solving skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

Basic Qualification: Can speak mandarin

Brief Job Description: Enforcing business strategies

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

Brief Job Description: Monitoring and maintaining computer systems and networks

CHANDA, MALIKA Data Analyst Officer 124.

Brief Job Description: Multilingual customer support, specifically for other Asian language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language.

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

Basic Qualification: Can speak mandarin Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

PACIFIC SEA BPO SERVICES, INC. 16/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language.

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

OOI QI RUI Mandarin Director

NI, MINGYANG Mandarin Technical Support

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

CHAI, ZHIHAO Mandarin Technical Support

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language.

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

OCEANIC SYMPHONY SERVICES INC. 3/f Salcedo One Center, 170 Salcedo St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

AUNG AUNG Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate

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

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

PAN, XUNRU Chinese Speaking Admin Associate

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

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

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

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

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

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

OKTAVIANDI Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language.

Brief Job Description: Develop the overall strategy, policies, procedures and approach for a specific area of expertise.

ASIH WINARNI Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

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

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

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

MONDELEZ BUSINESS SERVICES AP PTE. LTD. PHILIPPINE BRANCH 6th Flr. Cyberpod Centris Three North Tower, Eton Centris Edsa Cor. Quezon Ave., Pinyahan 4, Quezon City

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read, and write Chinese language

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

Basic Qualification: Must be 21 years old and above; graduate of any vocational or bachelor’s degree course; at least 1 year experience as data analyst or customer service; with good oral and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

SA RIVENDELL GLOBAL SUPPORT, INC. 2/f Star Cruises Ce Bldg., Andrews Drive, Newport City St., Barangay 183, Pasay City JACKSON SIA YEW FONG Customer Service Representative 125.

Brief Job Description: Knowledgeable in computer application with good oral and written communication skills

Basic Qualification: Customer support and data base services Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

SKYLUCK CORPORATION #360, Unit 243 Shaw Center Mall, Shaw Blvd. Penthouse Shaw I.t. Center, Addition Hills, City Of Mandaluyong

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ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION JEONG, YONGHEE Korean Customer Support Staff

126.

127.

Brief Job Description: Field Incoming Help Requests from End Users via both Telephone And Work Orders In A Courteous Manager

KIM, BYEONG CHAN Korean Technical Support Staff Brief Job Description: Apply diagnostic utilities to aid troubleshooting

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Can speak and write fluent Korean language and preferably six months of experience in the office staff. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Can speak and write fluent Korean language and preferably six months of experience in the office staff.

128.

Brief Job Description: Coordinate md oversee implementation of corporate-driven creative and globally recognized visual merchandising strategies across all merchandise business units in the stores nationwide to ensure alignment and compliance

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business/marketing; minimum of 20 years of experience; must have strong experience on various retail business across Asia Pacific in global markets; adept on global standards for Visual Merchandising

129.

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

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Vietnamese (Verbal and written skills)

DUONG THUY VY Mandarin Field Marketing Officer 138.

Brief Job Description: Define a region-specific marketing plan that supports the regional sales strategy.

WOO CHON KIT Mandarin Field Marketing Officer 139.

Brief Job Description: Define a region-specific marketing plan that supports the regional sales strategy.

BHATIA , RITESH Executive Vice President, Business Development 140.

Brief Job Description: Develop an overall sales strategy, which addresses the needs of individual local markets and drives success in winning new business from regional and global prospects. Negotiate contracts with potential clients.

130.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services.

VERTEX DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1439 Adriatico Cor. Sta. Monica St., 072, Barangay 669, Ermita, City Of Manila

NGUYEN THI NGA It Specialist 141.

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

FENG, YU Chinese Speaking Sales Marketing Specialist 131.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

WU, JINGWEN Chinese Speaking Sales Marketing Specialist 132.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

SONG, YAN Chinese Speaking Trade Marketing Specialist 133.

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, give customers information about product and services

134.

Brief Job Description: In coordination with the project manager and the relevant project team members, contributes to the overall execution strategy of the project regarding its planning, efficiency, and control aspects. Especially in directing project methods and integrated management systems.

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

135.

Brief Job Description: Customer support/service function for all client projects, in line with client contractual requirements via email and/or phone callbacks, through the use of the required local language (Vietnamese)

PHAM THI CHI It Specialist 143.

136.

Brief Job Description: Provide level 1 support to the Technidata’s client in France and Canada and direct sites in the Philippines

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

144.

137.

Brief Job Description: In-charge of the company’s business strategy to grow a sustainable business

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

TRAN THI QUY It Specialist 145.

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

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

Basic Qualification: Minimum 10 years with extensive site experience in construction project management; experience on water treatment plants is a plus. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Basic Qualification: University degree or the equivalent; Fluent in Vietnamese language

VIEN VAN MINH It Specialist 146.

Basic Qualification: Competent in Unix, Linux, and Windows

147.

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices; fluent in mandarin and English speaking.

ALVIN Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 148.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties ARRYANTO Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

149.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties. CALVIN VALENTINO Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

150.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties. DIKI ROBY MUSTAKIM Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

151.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties GERI APREDO Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

154.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties GUSTIA ARDIWINATA Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

155.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties. JACKSEN TEO Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

156.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties. JOSSHEN LUCU Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

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

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties

Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices; fluent in mandarin and English speaking.

JUFRIYANTO WIJAYA Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

157.

158.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices; fluent in mandarin and English speaking.

159.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices; fluent in mandarin and English speaking.

160.

161.

162.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties

WILLIAM Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 163.

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

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties

RORI VERBIAN NAINGGOLAN Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices; fluent in mandarin and English speaking.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties. MULIANTO Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices; fluent in mandarin and English speaking.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer-oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties

LUIS ANTONIO Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintain gaming devices; fluent in mandarin and English speaking.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

LOIKIE Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

ZAPPORT SERVICES, INC. 36/f Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil J. Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

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

Basic Qualification: University graduate with 15 years of experience in the group or oil industry. Ability to have a long term vision develop group’s activities

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

VU DUY DONG It Specialist

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

TOTAL (PHILIPPINES) CORPORATION 11th Corporate Center 7th Floor, 11th Avenue Corner Triangle Drive North Bonifacio, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

ALVAREZ, DANIEL EMILIO President And Managing Director

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

PHAM VAN HUNG It Specialist

TECHNIDATA INC. U1401-1402 Liberty Center, H.v Dela Costa St., Bel-air, City Of Makati KOMEDJA, KOSSIVI ANANI ELOM Bilingual Support Specialist

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

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

SYKES ASIA, INC. G/f, 3/f, 4/f Worldwide Corporate Center, Edsa, Cor. Shaw Blvd., Highway Hills, City Of Mandaluyong NGUYEN THAO HOANG MY Customer Service Agent

142.

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

SUEZ INTERNATIONAL PHILIPPINE BRANCH Unit Lz-2 19f Tower 1 Highstreet South Corporate Plaza, 9th Ave. Cor. 26th St., Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig GUILLOSSOU, GREGORY DAMIEN Deputy PM – Methods & IMS

NGUYEN VAN TIEN It Specialist

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

153.

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

Basic Qualification: Mentoring key talent within an account. Be responsible for and deliver service level agreements with world class benchmarks. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Over 20 years of experience in operations management.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

FERNANDO TASLIM Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION ERMAN Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer

Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

SPRITZER TRADING CORP. 37/f Lkg Tower, 6801 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

WANG, RONGLEI Chinese Speaking Digital Marketing Specialist

No.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in mandarin.

TPPH-FHCS, INC. Teleperformance Center, Ayala, Corner Sen. Gil J Puyat Avenue, City Of Makati

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

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

152.

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

SOMI UNLIMITED SOLUTIONS, INC. 10/f Tower 2 Double Dragon Plaza Bldg., Edsa Corner Macapagal Ave. St. Zone 10, District 1, Barangay 76, Pasay City NGUYEN THI HAI YEN Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

TOTAL CREST BUSINESS SUPPORT, INC. 26/f & 27/f Alphaland Corporate Tower, Ayala Ave. Extn. Cor. Malugay St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

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

SM RETAIL INC. Sm Retail Headquarters Bldg., J.w. Diokno Blvd Cor Bayshore Ave St., Moa Subd., Barangay 76, Pasay City

CHONG WOOI KIAT Consultant

No.

Thursday, June 2, 2022

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

YUDA PRATAMA Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer 164.

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

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

YUWIKA FITRI AMARINDA Indonesian-speaking Customer Service Officer Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

165.

Brief Job Description: Indonesian written reports on a daily operation of call center activities performing customer oriented telephone activities and various background operation duties.

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

*Date Generated: Jun 1, 2022 Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Indonesian speaking and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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.

A10 A6 Thursday, June 2, 2022

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

Biden says US sending mediumrange rocket systems to Ukraine C

China denies stoking geopolitical competition with US in Pacific

By Lolita C. Baldor

The Associated Press

ASHINGTON—The Biden administration announced on Tuesday that it will send Ukraine a small number of hightech, medium-range rocket systems, a critical weapon that Ukrainian leaders have been begging for as they struggle to stall Russian progress in the Donbas region.

In this May 23, 2011 file photo, a launch truck fires the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) produced by Lockheed Martin during combat training in the high desert of the Yakima Training Center, Wash. The Biden administration is expected to announce it will send Ukraine a small number of high-tech, medium range rocket systems, US officials said Tuesday. One official said the plan is to send Ukraine the HIMARS. Tony Overman/The Olympian via AP

The rocket systems are part of a new $700 million tranche of security assistance for Ukraine from the US that will include helicopters, Javelin anti-tank weapon systems, tactical vehicles, spare parts and more, according to two senior administration officials. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the weapons package that will be formally unveiled on Wednesday. The US decision to provide the advance rocket systems tries to strike a balance between the desire to help Ukraine battle ferocious Russian artillery barrages while not providing arms that could allow Ukraine to hit targets deep inside Russia and trigger an escalation in the war. In a guest essay published Tuesday evening in The New York Times, President Joe Biden confirmed that he’s decided to “provide the Ukrainians with more advanced rocket systems and munitions that will enable them to more precisely strike key targets on the battlefield in Ukraine.” Biden had said Monday that the US would not send Ukraine “rocket systems that can strike into Russia.” Any weapons system can shoot into Russia if it’s close enough to the border. The aid package expected to be unveiled Wednesday would send what the US considers medium-range rockets—they generally can travel about 45 miles (70 kilometers), the officials said. The Ukrainians have assured US officials that they will not fire rockets into Russian territory, according to the senior administration officials. One official noted that the advanced rocket systems will give Ukrainian forces greater precision in targeting

Since the war began in February, the US and its allies have tried to walk a narrow line: send Ukraine weapons needed to fight off Russia, but stop short of providing aid that will inflame Russian President Vladimir Putin and trigger a broader conf lict that could spill over into other parts of Europe. Over time, however, the US and allies have amped up the weaponry going into Ukraine, as the fight has shifted from Russia’s broader campaign to take the capital, Kyiv, and other areas, to more close-contact skirmishes for small pieces of land in the east and south. To that end, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been pleading with the West to send multiple launch rocket systems to Ukraine as soon as possible to help stop Russia’s destruction of towns in the Donbas. The rockets have a longer range than the howitzer artillery systems that the US has provided Ukraine. They would allow Ukrainian forces to strike Russian troops from a distance outside the range of Russia’s artillery systems. “We are fighting for Ukraine to be provided with all the weapons needed to change the nature of the fighting and start moving faster and more confidently toward the expulsion of the occupiers,” Zelenskyy said in a recent address. Ukraine needs multiple launch rocket systems, said Philip Breedlove, a retired US Air Force general who was NATO’s top commander from 2013 to 2016. “These are very important capabilities that we have not gotten them yet. And they not only need them, but they have been very vociferous in explaining they want them,” said Breedlove. “We need to get serious about supplying

Russian assets inside Ukraine. The expectation is that Ukraine could use the rockets in the eastern Donbas region, where they could both intercept Russian artillery and take out Russian positions in towns where fighting is intense, such as Sievierodonetsk. Sievierodonetsk is important to Russian efforts to capture the Donbas before more Western arms arrive to bolster Ukraine’s defense. The city, which is 90 miles (145 kilometers) south of the Russian border, is in an area that is the last pocket under Ukrainian government control in the Luhansk region of the Donbas. Biden in his New York Times’ essay added: “We are not encouraging or enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders. We do not want to prolong the war just to inflict pain on Russia.” It’s the 11th package approved so far, and will be the first to tap the $40 billion in security and economic assistance recently passed by Congress. The rocket systems would be part of Pentagon drawdown authority, so would involve taking weapons from US inventory and getting them into Ukraine quickly. Ukrainian troops would also need training on the new systems, which could take at least a week or two. Officials said the plan is to send Ukraine the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS, which is mounted on a truck and can carry a container with six rockets. The system can launch a medium-range rocket, which is the current plan, but is also capable of firing a longer-range missile, the Army Tactical Missile System, which has a range of about 190 miles (300 kilometers) and is not part of the plan.

this army so that it can do what the world is asking it to do: fight a world superpower alone on the battlefield.” US and White House officials had no public comment on the specifics of the aid package. “We continue to consider a range of systems that have the potent i a l to be ef fec t ive on the battlefield for our Ukrainian partners. But the point the president made is that we won’t be sending long-range rockets for use beyond the battlefield in Ukraine,” State Department Ned Price said Tuesday. “As the battle has shifted its dynamics, we have also shifted the type of security assistance that we are providing to them, in large part because they have asked us for the various systems that are going to be more effective in places like the Donbas.” Russia has been making incremental progress in the Donbas, as it tries to take the remaining sections of the region not already controlled by Russian-backed separatists. Putin has repeatedly warned the West against sending greater firepower to Ukraine. The Kremlin said Putin held an 80-minute telephone call Saturday with the leaders of France and Germany in which he warned against the continued transfers of Western weapons. Overall, the United States has committed approx imately $5 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the beginning of the Biden administration, including approximately $4.5 billion since the Russia invaded on February 24. AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee and Associated Press writer Aamer Madhani contributed to this report.

Asian factories remained under pressure in May as China slowed

ey gauges of activity at Asia’s factories remained under pressure in May from China’s economic slowdown. Exporters across trade-heavy Asia are juggling an increasingly complex set of risks, as China’s Covid-19 lockdowns stifle activity, supply issues emanate from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and demand-side worries emerge as accelerating inflation dents consumption in the world’s biggest economies. While central bankers charge ahead with fighting price gains, economists are tracking a more subdued trajectory ahead for global goods trade. The Taiwan Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index fell to 50 last month, according to S&P Global, its lowest reading since June 2020 and down from 51.7 in April as both output and new orders declined. Gauges for Malaysia, the Philippines and Australia also slid. “The latest PMI data continues to highlight a challenging second quarter

China’s economic slowdown affected Asia’s factories in May. Bloomberg. for Taiwanese manufacturers, who are facing further supply chain disruption due to lockdowns in mainland China as well as a general weakening of client demand amid strong global inflationary pressures,” Annabel Fiddes, Economics

Associate Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence said in a release. Malaysia’s manufacturing PMI slipped to 50.1 from 51.6 in April with output and new orders also falling. The Philippines index dipped to 54.1, from 54.3, while

Thailand was unchanged at 51.9. Australia’s gauge fell to 55.7 from 58.8. Vietnam bucked the softening with its reading leaping to 54.7, from 51.7 in April, the highest since April 2021 and its eighth consecutive month of expansion. “Vietnamese manufacturers are increasingly able to operate normally as pandemic disruption fades, with May seeing sharp accelerations in growth of output and new orders, in turn boosting employment and purchasing,” Andrew Harker, Economics Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said in a release. Data released Tuesday showed that China’s factories continued to contract in May, though at a slower pace as some of the country’s tightest Covid restrictions began to loosen. The official manufacturing purchasing managers index rose to 49.6 from 47.4 in April, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics. That compares with the median estimate of 49 in a Bloomberg survey of economists. Bloomberg News

hinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said his country has no desire to engage in “geopolitical competition” over influence of Pacific islands nations, during his marathon tour of the region. “China has no intention of competing with anyone, let alone engaging in geopolitical competition, and has never established a so-called sphere of influence,” Wang said Tuesday after meeting Tongan Foreign Minister Fekitamoeloa Utoikamanu, according to a Chinese government readout. He added that “some people” had attacked and tried to discredit China’s engagement in the region, in an apparent veiled reference to the US and Australia, and denied Beijing was trying to deepen its military engagement in the Pacific. Tensions between China and US allies in the Pacific have increased since Beijing said in April it had signed a security agreement with the Solomon Islands. While the final wording of the deal hasn’t been released, a leaked draft said it would allow Beijing to deploy security personnel to the Solomon Islands in the wake of domestic unrest.

Wang’s 10-day tour of eight Pacific countries has been seen as evidence of Beijing’s growing ambitions in a region where the US and Australia are the traditional partners. That outreach was dealt a setback Monday when several nations rejected a sweeping trade and security deal proposed by Wang. There had been signs that some Pacific nations were uneasy with China’s expanding role. Micronesian President David Panuelo had criticized Beijing’s plans, warning they could spark a Cold War, Australia’s ABC News reported. Fiji joined the US in a wideranging economic initiative last week, making it the first Pacific Island nation to do so. It then signed three economic pacts with China on Monday, a sign that Pacific nations may seek ways to balance relations with the world’s two largest economies. Wang’s visit coincided with the trip by Australia’s new Foreign Minister Penny Wong to Fiji, where she pledged her country would “remain a critical development partner” with a “no strings-attached” approach, in what appeared to be a veiled jab at the Chinese government. Bloomberg News

A customer pumps gas at this Madison, Miss., Sam’s Club, after filling up a gasoline container, Tuesday, May 24, 2022. Wholesale retail chains stores like Costco and Sam’s Club tend to price their gas and diesel competitively against one another while major gas chain prices are usually higher. AP/Rogelio V. Solis

US consumer confidence slips in May amid stubborn inflation

ILVER SPRING, Md.—US consumer confidence edged lower in May as Americans’ view of their present and future prospects dimmed in the midst of persistent inflation. The Conference Board said Tuesday that its consumer confidence index dipped to 106.4 in May—still a strong reading—from 108.6 in April. The business research group’s present situation index, which measures consumers’ assessment of current business and labor conditions, also fell in May to 149.6 from 152.9 in April. The expectations index, based on consumers’ six-month outlook for income, business and labor market conditions, also declined in May, to 77.5 from 79 in April. It was above 80 in February and remains a weak spot in the survey. President Joe Biden met with Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell on Tuesday as soaring inflation continues to carve up Americans’ earnings. The meeting Tuesday will be the first since Biden renominated Powell to lead the central bank and weeks after the Senate confirmed a second term. The White House said the pair would discuss the state of the US and global economy and especially fourdecade high inflation, described as Biden’s “top economic priority.” The Federal Reserve raised its main borrowing rate by a half point in early May, the main mechanism for combatting inflation. Multiple rate hikes, with the possibility of more half-point increases, are expected this year. Inflation soared over the past

year at its fastest pace in more than 40 years, with rising costs for just about everything negating Americans’ pay raises. The Labor Department reported earlier in May that consumer prices jumped 8.3 percent last month from a year ago. That was below the 8.5 percent year-over-year surge in March, which was the highest since 1981. On a monthly basis, prices rose 0.3 percent from March to April, the smallest rise in eight months. US producer prices soared 11 percent in April from a year earlier, a hefty gain that indicates high inflation will remain a burden for consumers and businesses in the months ahead. Consumers were again slightly less optimistic about the labor market, even as US employers have added at least 400,000 jobs for 12 straight months, pushing the unemployment rate down to 3.6 percent. That’s the lowest rate since the pandemic erupted two years ago and just above the half-century low of 3.5 percent that was reached two years ago. Purchasing intentions for bigticket items—cars, homes and major appliances—all cooled slightly, the Conference Board said. Rising costs remain the top concern for consumers, as their inflation expectations were mostly unchanged from April’s elevated levels. “Looking ahead, expect surging prices and additional interest rate hikes to pose continued downside risks to consumer spending this year,” said Lynn Franco, the Conference Board’s senior director of economic indicators. AP

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Editor: Jennifer A. Ng • Thursday, June 2, 2022 A17

NIA: Projects expanded PHL’s irrigated areas By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

HE Nat iona l Ir r igat ion Administration (NIA) on Wednesday said it expanded the country’s irrigation development by 311,265 hectares to 2.042 million hectares at the end of the term of President Duterte. NIA Administrator Ricardo R. Visaya claimed that the expansion made under the Duterte administration from 2016 to 2021 was the highest in the NIA’s history. From 2016 to 2021, NIA’s irrigation development averaged at 51,877.5 hectares, faster than the 31,865.16 hectares recorded during the Aquino administration, covering the years 2010 to 2015, based on historical data. The country’s irrigation development status at the end of 2021 is now at 65.28 percent out of the 3.128 million hectares of estimated total irrigable area nationwide. NIA data showed that the national irrigation system remained the major provider of irrigation as it serviced 955,653.79 hectares

PHOTO shows the P645-million Benliw Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in Ubay, Bohol. FROM WWW.NIA.GOV.PH

while those under the communal irrigation system were estimated at 737,402.32 hectares. NIA data also showed that the private irrigation system as of end-2021

services a total of 180,501.21 hectares while 168,835.34 hectares are serviced by other government agencies. Visaya said various irrigation projects were completed during

Duterte’s term such as the “P631million Barbar Small Reservoir Irrigation Project (SRIP) in Ilocos Sur, benefiting 1,156 farmers, the P645-million Benliw SRIP in Bohol,

covering 400 hectares of agricultural land, and the P1.391-billion Upper Malitubog Service Area in North Cotabato, benefiting 2,004 farmers and their families.” Visaya added that the country currently has 10,401 irrigation systems nationwide. “NIA pursued to optimize dams not just for irrigation purposes but also for agro-tourism, aquaculture, and hydroelectric power generation. On the Solar-Powered Irrigation Project, NIA has 333 solar-powered irrigation projects nationwide with an aggregate cost of P1.517 billion,” he said in a statement. “These projects can generate up to 4,214.33 horsepower and irrigate 6,482.62 hectares of agricultural land, benefitting 8,467 farmers and their families.” Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said as of December 2021 about 1.033 million farmers tilling 1.189 million hectares of agricultural land benefited from the government’s free irrigation program. Duterte signed into law the Free Irrigation Service Act or Republic Act 10969 last 2018.

Visaya said the NIA, now an attached agency of the DA, will continue to fulfill its mandate by developing, constructing, operating and maintaining irrigation systems nationwide, especially with the “devolution of Communal Irrigation Systems to the local government units.” “With the transition to the next administration, NIA has ongoing Infrastructure Flagship Projects under the ‘Build Build Build’ program of the government that are targeted for completion such as the P4.372-billion Chico River Pump Irrigation Project in Kalinga to be inaugurated this June 25, 2022, the P11.21-billion Jalaur River Multipurpose Project-Stage II in Iloilo, and the P5.444-billion MalitubogMaridagao Irrigation Project - Stage II in North Cotabato.” For 2022, the NIA aims to develop 24,462 hectares of new irrigation areas while restoring irrigation to an additional 12,356 hectares of land. This year, NIA has a total budget of P32.468 billion of which P22.646 billion is being used for its irrigation systems development and restoration programs.

Senate okays bicam report on bill ‘Marcos scrutinizing qualifications improving farmers’ access to credit of candidates for next agri chief’ By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

HE Senate has ratified a bicameral conference committee report endorsing the passage of an enabling bill that will expand farmers’ access to financial services. Acting on the endorsement of Sen. Cynthia Villar, senators adopted the bicameral conference committee report on the bill repealing Republic Act 10000 or the Agri-Agra Reform Credit Act of 2009. Villar, chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, sponsored the report reconciling the disagreeing provisions of Senate Bill 2494 and House Bill 6134 or the Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development Financing Enhancement Act of 2022. The senator recalled that concerns were raised because banks would rather pay penalties than lend money to farmers, fisherfolks and other agricultural stakeholders. More than increasing penalties to ensure bank compliance, she said in a statement that she finds merit in the proposal to consolidate the loan allocation for farmers and fisherfolks and agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARB).

The enabling legislation mandates under the bill that agriculture, fisheries, and rural development financing system through government and private banking institutions are expected to improve productivity, income, competitiveness and welfare of the rural community beneficiaries, including farmers, fishers and agrarian reform communities. As provided in the enabling legislation, the financing system shall consist of loans and investments to finance activities that enhance productivity and increase income of an agricultural and fisheries household, thereby promoting agricultural sector productivity and competitiveness, as well as sustainable development of rural communities. Toward this end, it further provides that all banking institutions, whether government or private, except newly-established banks for a period of five years from date of commencement of the banks’ operations, shall set aside a credit quota, or a minimum mandatory agricultural and fisheries financing requirement of at least 25 percent of their total loanable funds. Moreover, banks may comply with the mandatory credit requirement

by lending to rural community beneficiaries to finance agricultural and fishery-related activities or comply with the requirement through other means, such as lending for the construction and upgrading of infrastructure, including but not limited to, farm-to-market roads, as well as the provision of post-harvest facilities and other public rural infrastructure that will benefit the rural community. A salient feature of the reconciled version of the bill is the creation of a special fund collected from penalties wherein 20 percent would be allocated for agricultural- and fishery-related organizational—capacity—and institution- building programs and activities. This will be implemented by the Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines with the help of training providers as well as the Agricultural Credit Policy Council and the Cooperative Development Authority. Villar noted that these training programs will equip ARBs, as well as members of their household and the MSMEs, agrarian reform communities with the appropriate knowledge and skills to improve their welfare, competitiveness, income and productivity.

FAO: Doubling global potato production in 10 years is possible

OTATOES could contribute even more to world history and global food security, and total production of the food crop could double in the next 10 years, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. FAO noted that potatoes are the world’s third most important food crop and are regularly consumed by billions of people. “Potatoes also generate income for small-scale producers, offer a low-fat, high-fibre source of healthy carbohydrates rich in antioxidants and nutrients, and also generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions than other major crops,” Qu Dongyu, FAO director-general, said in his keynote presentation during the 11th World Potato Congress (WPC) convened recently in Dublin, Ireland. Qu, according to FAO, is an acclaimed expert on the food crop. Earlier in his career, he inter alia helped organize the 2015 WPC in China and served as a Trustee of the International Potato Center. Today potatoes, whose genetic origins are in South America, are

cultivated on more than 20 million hectares in 150 countries for a total global output of 359 million tons in 2020. By focusing on improving yields and making full use of historic potato cultivation areas, worldwide production can be raised to 500 million tons in 2025 and 750 million tons in 2030, the Director General said. “Potato will become one of the advantage crops in the global food security system when the yield of other cereal crops is close to the limit,” Qu said. While hailing the genius of the peoples of Peru and Bolivia who domesticated the potato, the director-general noted that Asia and Africa are the regions with the fastest growth of potato production today, while output is declining in Europe and North America. Globally, potato output has grown even as the land devoted to their cultivation has decreased, highlighting the role of improved yields, said Qu.

The road ahead

THE director-general called on multiple partners to help “greatly improve” potato agrifood systems

on the national, regional and global levels. Noting the importance of providing decent rural employment, offering nutritious food and emphasizing the need for inclusive policies, plans and actions, he called for increasing support for potato genetic improvements and shorter breeding cycles for potato varieties, and the potential value of virus-free potato seed systems. The International Potato Center gene bank in Lima has conserved more than 7 000 different native varieties and wild relatives, which have a wide range of traits, including the ability to adapt to different production environments and to resist various pests and diseases. Qu said the relatively low natural resource requirements of potatoes make them an important food crop for people to survive during famine and disaster relief. In China, potatoes are regarded as the preferred crop for increasing income and reducing poverty, he said, noting the plant’s spatial distribution in the country closely maps that of formerly poor areas, especially in mountainous areas.

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

RESIDENT-ELECT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has not yet named his nominee for agriculture chief because of the large number of applicants, according to his incoming press secretary. In a televised interview last Wednesday, incoming Press Secretary Rose Beatrix CruzAngeles said Marcos is taking his time in selecting the next head of the Department of Agriculture. “One of the priority agenda of the President-elect is agriculture and therefore the selection has to be done carefully.” After the announcement of Marcos’ win in the elections earlier this month, Angeles said he has received a lot of applications for the position. “So to be fair, we have to go through all [of the applications], which is prolonging the selection [process],” Angeles said. Marcos had said stabilizing the price of food, particularly by helping farmers and

fisherfolks, will be among his priority agenda. The President-elect had earlier announced the nominees for his economic team, including Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin E. Diokno as finance secretary, former University of the Philippines (UP) President Alfred E. Pascual as trade secretary, and BSP Assistant Governor Amenah F. Pangandaman as budget secretary.

Bypassed officials

MEANWHILE, five officials who were appointed by President Duterte to the Commission on Elections (Comelec), Civil Service Commission (CSC) and Commission on Audit (COA) face uncertainty during the Marcos administration. This after the Commission on Appointment (CA) was unable to reaffirm the appointments of the said officials last Wednesday due to lack of quorum. A mong those affected are Comelec Chair man Saidamen B. Pangar ungan

and Comelec Commissioners A imee S.Tor refranca-Ner i and George M. Garcia; CSC Chair man K arlo B. Nogra les; and COA Chair person R iza lina N. Justol. Duter te appointed Justol to head COA last Febr uar y, while Nogra les, Pangar ungan, Ner i and Garcia assumed their new assig nments last March. Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel F. Zubiri disclosed that some lawmakers feel that Marcos should be given the choice to pick the heads of the three Constitutional bodies. When asked if Marcos will consider reappointing the said officials, Angeles said she has still no information on the matter. But she lauded the leeway provided by lawmakers, when it comes to the appointment of officials for Comelec, CSC, and COA. “We are only appreciative of the gesture that the Presidentelect’s opinion or choices on the officials are taken into consideration.”

Grain futures plummet on Ukraine export prospects

HEAT in Chicago plunged the most allowed by the exchange on improved prospects for Ukraine grain shipments and United States crop weather. Corn and soybeans also tumbled. Russia discussed Black Sea exports with Turkey on Monday and said it is willing to help ensure Ukrainian exports, though the Kremlin provided no details and some analysts expressed doubts. In the US, a June weather forecast looked favorable for much of the Farm Belt, and a report showed wheat planting progress ahead of expectations. Grains have traded at near-record levels since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine upended trade routes, adding to rampant inflation of food and livestock feed. Weather woes, including drought in some parts of North America and flooding in others, have intensified worry about supply shortages. Traders are watching for signs of how conditions may look over the next few months as growing season begins. “We are not seeing confirmation yet of a threatening summer forecast,” Rich Nelson, chief strategist

at commodity brokerage Allendale Inc., said in an email. Also, a 30day weather outlook released by the US government Tuesday afternoon shows “no yield threat” to crops, he said. The US Department of Agriculture’s latest crop planting report also could weigh on prices. Corn seedings as of last week were 86 percent complete, matching the average Bloomberg survey estimate. Sowing of spring wheat, which has been severely delayed due to rains and cool temperatures in the northern Plains, exceeded expectations at 73 percent. That

compares to 49 percent planted the prior week. The improved prospects for world supplies sent most-active Chicago wheat futures down as much as 6.1 percent to their daily price limit of $10.875 a bushel, settling the day at the lowest level since May 4. The July contract tied to hard red winter wheat also fell by the exchange limit. Corn fell 3.1 percent to settle at $7.535 a bushel, the lowest since April 7. Soybeans retreated 2.8 percent, the biggest drop since April 11, to end the month little changed at $16.8325 a bushel. Bloomberg News

A18 Thursday, June 2, 2022 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

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editorial

Peacefully untying geopolitical knots

hina has been bullying the Philippines and other countries in Asia for years—harassing, ramming and sinking Philippine fishing boats, building artificial islands in disputed areas in the South China Sea, and arming them with anti-ship and anti-aircraft missile systems and jamming equipment. Although President Duterte has declared China a friend of the Philippines, the Department of Foreign Affairs has filed hundreds of diplomatic protests against China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea since the start of the Duterte administration. One of the earliest Philippine protests was against the swarming of hundreds of Chinese militia vessels near the Julian Felipe Reef, an act that also elicited reactions from several countries, including the United States, Japan and Australia. On Monday, the DFA announced it filed another diplomatic protest against China’s May 1 imposition of an annual fishing ban lasting more than three months in “areas in the West Philippine Sea over which the Philippines has sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction.” The DFA said: “Paragraph 716 of the final and binding Award on the South China Sea Arbitration rendered on July 12, 2016 states that China, by promulgating its moratorium on fishing in the South China Sea without exception for areas of the South China Sea falling within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines and without limiting the moratorium to Chinese flagged vessels, breached Article 56 of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) with respect to the Philippines’s sovereign rights over the living resources of its exclusive economic zone.” The declaration of a moratorium on fishing that extends to the West Philippine Sea has no basis in law, and undermines the mutual trust, confidence, and respect that should underpin bilateral relations, as affirmed most recently by President Rodrigo R. Duterte and President Xi Jinping during their Telesummit on April 8, 2022, according to the DFA. “The Philippines calls on China to comply with its obligations under international law, particularly the 1982 UNCLOS and the final and binding Award on the South China Sea Arbitration; cease and desist from the conduct of illegal actions that violate the Philippines’s sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in its maritime zones; and adhere to its commitments under the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea,” the DFA said. Earlier, China reportedly harassed marine research and hydrological exploration activities inside the Philippine exclusive economic zone. The US-based think tank Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative said “Chinese coast guard and militia dangerously harassed Philippine and Taiwanese vessels in the Philippine EEZ in three separate showdowns in March and April. Beijing giving the incoming Marcos administration a preview of what it can expect,” Greg Poling, senior fellow and director of AMTI wrote on Twitter. (Read, “China ‘harasses’ PHL research, exploration ships US think tank,” in the BusinessMirror, May 30, 2022). “All three incidents demonstrate Beijing’s determination to control maritime activity within the nine-dash line, and to create a high risk of collisions at sea to do so. In one instance, its tactics clearly succeeded, convincing the Philippines to backpedal on an October 2020 decision to lift a nearly decade-old moratorium on oil and gas exploration in areas of its continental shelf that fall within the ninedash line. This follows a complete lack of progress on joint exploration despite a 2018 memorandum of understanding with Beijing, making it unclear whether the Philippines will ever be able to access its hydrocarbon resources at Reed Bank,” the AMTI said. Incoming President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. has said he will use diplomatic means with China over the West Philippine Sea issue, the same approach adopted by President Duterte. He can negotiate from a position of strength with the 2016 UNCLOS ruling, which is certainly a legal victory for the Philippines over China. But China does not recognize the arbitration ruling and continues to defy it. Worse, China blatantly disrespects its neighbors’ sovereignty. Under current realities, the challenge for the next president is how to protect national interests in the West Philippine Sea. Marcos Jr. thinks he can do this by forging a bilateral agreement with China. We support pragmatic ways to peacefully untie geopolitical knots. If the incoming administration can negotiate an agreement to pursue, for example, joint use of resources in disputed areas—not only for exploitation but also for marine environmental protection and the protection of Filipino fishermen—that, in itself, will be a remarkable achievement.

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PHL is not the Titanic John Mangun

OUTSIDE THE BOX

E have this idea that “we are all in the same boat” and usually that boat is the Titanic. The Titanic was designed and built badly. The watertight compartments did not reach high enough and were insufficient because higher compartments would have decreased first-class cabin space. It was built with second-rate rivets used to hold the hull together that would eventually fracture from the collision. It was Captain E. J. Smith’s retirement trip and he ignored seven iceberg warnings from his crew and other ships. Finally, Bruce Ismay, White Star Line chairman, wanted to make the crossing in six days and said the ship could not afford to slow down. But notice this. There is no single cause and therefore no one to blame. In fact, both US and UK inquiries eventually put the responsibility for the deaths on the captain of the nearby vessel Californian whose captain was told there were rockets coming from the Titanic and he assumed they were having a party. Remarks By President Biden on the Economy—May 10, 2022: “There are two leading causes of inflation today. The first cause is a once-in-a-century pandemic that threw the supply chain completely out of whack. And

this year we have a second cause: Mr. Putin’s war in Ukraine.” Damned icebergs! In the Philippines—and normally to support a political agenda—we are told that our “boat” is a broken bangka without paddles and every other country is sailing a Russian oligarch-style mega yacht. The countries that are actual “broken bangkas” like Pakistan, El Salvador, and Argentina are only mentioned like “The Philippine is going to be like Sri Lanka! Get life jackets!” The world is not all in one boat, Titanic or otherwise. Lack of information is mis-information, and the amount going around could fill an ocean. Being ignorant in 2022 is the most dangerous thing you can be unless you want to be played for a fool. There are 223 central banks in the world like a massive fishing fleet. The Philippines even calls it the “Bangko Sentral.” But ours is substantially

In every country, inflation and the global crude oil price track each other, as there is both correlation and causation. So why is Philippine inflation at 4.9 percent year-on-year and not at 8.3 percent like the US? The annual inflation rate in Brazil jumped to 12 percent in April 2022. Taking a typical barrel of crude oil, 90 percent is used as gasoline and diesel fuel. Since April 2020, transportation spending in the US is up 36 percent versus 16 percent in the Philippines. Brazilians are spending 33 percent of the monthly minimum wage to fill up a 50-liter fuel tank. different from the Federal Reserve, ECB, and the People’s Bank of China. The big three have the mandate of “price stability” (inflation control) and currency stability, as does the Bangko Sentral. But those three must also “promote effectively the goals of maximum employment and economic growth.” And for the politicians that control the central banks, it is “maximum employment and economic growth” that wins elections. The un/ mis-informed public has no understanding of “currency stability” and are told that historic high inflation is “Putin’s fault.” Therefore, when an equally un/ mis-informed member of the media challenges a genuine monetary ex-

pert, the media crashes and burns. “Diokno was recently named the best central banker in the world by The Banker, an international business, banking, and finance magazine owned by the Financial Times.” In every country, inflation and the global crude oil price track each other, as there is both correlation and causation. So why is Philippine inflation at 4.9 percent year-on-year and not at 8.3 percent like the US? The annual inflation rate in Brazil jumped to 12 percent in April 2022. Taking a typical barrel of crude oil, 90 percent is used as gasoline and diesel fuel. Since April 2020, transportation spending in the US is up 36 percent versus 16 percent in the Philippines. Brazilians are spending 33 percent of the monthly minimum wage to fill up a 50-liter fuel tank. However, 80 percent of Brazilian households own a car, but about 10 percent of Philippine households own a car, jeep, or van. The majority of Filipinos commute to work and shopping on public transportation. That keeps transportation spending/inflation lower. The point is our national spending on transportation is lower compared to other places that some of the “experts” have relatives living. We are not all in the same boat and all our boats are different. Thinking otherwise leads to wrong impressions and very bad decisions. E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.

Climate change is behind weird rainfall patterns in Europe

missions of planet-warming greenhouse gases caused by human activities are directly responsible for long-term dry conditions in the Mediterranean basin and the increasing rainfall over the rest of Europe during winter, according to a study by the UK’s Met Office. The research, published in Journal of Climate, is the first to show the direct link between seasonal rainfall trends in Europe and climate change, the Met Office said in a statement. Scientists compared climate scenarios with and without human influence. “With this clear identification of the role of greenhouse gasses, this study provides further evidence that changes to our rainfall patterns in Europe will continue as our atmosphere warms,” said Nikos Christidis, lead author and Met Office climate scientist. “Even though countries are used to these kind of extremes, the increase in frequency, severity and intensity is going to demand greater adaptation to a new kind of climate regime.” Scientists are highly confident that man-made climate change has

an influence on precipitation patterns on land, according to the conclusions of the latest report from the UN-backed Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. But the regional effects of this global trend have been more difficult to detect, making it harder to come up with mitigation strategies to help vulnerable populations and the environment. The study looked at seasonal precipitation in Europe since the beginning of the 20th century. It found that the Mediterranean basin is getting drier, while the rest of the continent is becoming wetter. This trend is stronger in winter and weaker in summer, when drying is more widespread across the whole of Europe. As the planet warms, water evaporates and water vapor increases by 6 percent to 7 percent, according to research cited in the study. The higher

“With this clear identification of the role of greenhouse gasses, this study provides further evidence that changes to our rainfall patterns in Europe will continue as our atmosphere warms,” said Nikos Christidis, lead author and Met Office climate scientist. “Even though countries are used to these kind of extremes, the increase in frequency, severity and intensity is going to demand greater adaptation to a new kind of climate regime.” moisture in the air leads to changes in rainfall patterns. The Met Office’s findings fit with attribution studies of single events like the floods that devastated Germany last year. Human emissions of greenhouse gases are making such events more intense and more frequent. Using a new generation of climate models, scientists were able to create a scenario where human influence on the climate was removed, another

where the climate was influenced only by aerosols and a third where it was influenced by aerosols and greenhouse gases. They concluded that greenhouse gas emissions were the main contributor to the trend, but that it was also weakened by aerosols, which have a cooling effect on the planet. Ironically, as the world—and particularly Europe—seek to improve air quality in cities and restrict emissions from industrial activity, changes in rainfall will accelerate, the study concluded, because of a decrease in the amount of polluting aerosols. That, coupled with the continuing warming of the planet, means there’s an increasing risk of extremely dry seasons in the Mediterranean and extremely wet seasons elsewhere in Europe. Even in countries with a relatively high capacity to adapt to the changing climate, communities may still be greatly vulnerable, Christidis said. “The climate will shift to something that we’re not experiencing now and these changes will all come with a raft of impacts.” Bloomberg Opinion

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Biden plots inflation fight with Fed chair as nation worries

Seafarer’s single consultation with his personal doctor and disability benefits

By Josh Boak, Christopher Rugaber & Zeke Miller

Dennis Gorecho

The Associated Press

ASHINGTON—Focused on relentlessly rising prices, President Joe Biden plotted inflation-fighting strategy Tuesday with the chairman of the Federal Reserve, with the fate of the economy and his own political prospects increasingly dependent on the actions of the government’s central bank. Biden hoped to demonstrate to voters that he was attuned to their worries about higher gasoline, grocery and other prices whiles still insisting an independent Fed will act free from political pressure. Like Biden, the Fed wants to slow inflation without knocking the US economy into recession, a highly sensitive mission that is to include increasing benchmark interest rates this summer. The president said he would not attempt to direct that course as some previous presidents have tried. “My plan to address inflation starts with simple proposition: Respect the Fed, respect the Fed’s independence,” Biden said. The sit-down on a heat-drenched late-spring day was Biden’s latest effort to show his dedication to containing the 8.3% leap in consumer prices over the past year. Rising gas and food costs have angered many Americans heading into the midterm elections, putting Democrats’ control of the House and Senate at risk. Biden is running out of options on his own. His past attempts—oil releases from the strategic reserve, improving port operations and calls to investigate price gouging—have fallen short of satisfactory results. High prices have undermined his efforts to highlight the low 3.6% unemployment rate, leaving a growing sense of pessimism among Americans. Tuesday’s meeting was the first since Powell was renominated in November by Biden to lead the central bank and came two weeks after his confirmation for a second term by the Senate. It also represented something of a reversal by Biden as inflation weighs heavily on voters’ minds. The president asserted in April 2021 that he was “very fastidious about not talking” with the independent Fed and wanted to avoid being seen as “telling them what they should and shouldn’t do.” The White House, along with the Fed, initially portrayed the inflation surge as a temporary side effect caused by supply chain issues as the US emerged from the pandemic. Republican lawmakers were fast to criticize Biden’s $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package from last year as pumping too much money into the economy and causing more inflation. That narrative also has held some sway with leading economists who say the financial support was excessive even though it helped the job market roar back. The administration has walked back its previous statements. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told CNN on Tuesday evening that she did not fully understand the impact that unanticipated large shocks and supply bottlenecks would have on the economy. “Look, I think I was wrong then about the path that inflation would take,” she said. “But we recognize that now the Federal Reserve is taking the steps that it needs to take. It’s up to them to decide what to do.” Inflation has shown signs of moderating but is likely to remain far above the Fed’s 2% target through the end of this year. Gas prices are expected to keep rising, particularly now that the European Union has agreed to cut off 90 percent of its oil purchases from Russia. That will force the EU to buy more oil from elsewhere, and it drove oil prices to $115 a barrel Tuesday. This was only the fourth meeting between the president and the Federal Reserve chair, though Powell breakfasts as often as once a week with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen,

who also attended Tuesday’s meeting along with Brian Deese, the White House National Economic Council director. Ahead of the meeting, Biden suggested that he and Powell were aligned on addressing inflation. “My predecessor demeaned the Fed, and past presidents have sought to influence its decisions inappropriately during periods of elevated inflation,” Biden said in an op-ed posted Monday by The Wall Street Journal. “I won’t do this. I have appointed highly qualified people from both parties to lead that institution. I agree with their assessment that fighting inflation is our top economic challenge right now.” In contrast, President Donald Trump repeatedly attacked Powell after the Fed chair oversaw moderate interest rate hikes in 2018 and continued his public criticism even as Powell cut rates in 2019. Biden’s endorsement of the Fed’s policies—a stance echoed by congressional GOP leaders—gives Powell important political cover for a series of sharp interest rate hikes intended to rein in higher prices. Yet the higher rates could cause layoffs, raise the unemployment rate and even tip the economy into recession. Amid worries that the US economy may repeat the high, persistent inflation of the 1970s, the cooperation between Biden and Powell represents a crucial difference from that time and could make it easier for the Fed to restrain higher prices. In the early 1970s, President Richard Nixon pressured Fed chair Arthur Burns to lower interest rates to spur the economy before Nixon’s 1972 reelection campaign. Nixon’s interference is now widely seen as a key contributor to runaway inflation, which remained high until the early 1980s. “That’s why comparisons to the 1970s are wrong,” said Sebastian Mallaby, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and author of a biography on former Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan, “The Man Who Knew.” “The president’s essay was striking because he explicitly backed the Fed.” Biden faces an increasingly global challenge as energy and food costs have jumped after Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine in February. Simultaneously, China imposed lockdowns tied to coronavirus outbreaks that further strained supply chains. This has left the European Union nursing record inflation and the risks of a recession, while US consumers are increasingly disgruntled by gas prices averaging a nominal record of $4.62 a gallon. Powell has pledged to keep ratcheting up the Fed’s key short-term interest rate to cool the economy until inflation is “coming down in a clear and convincing way.” But those rate hikes have spurred fears that the Fed, in its drive to slow borrowing and spending, may push the economy into recession. That concern has caused sharp drops in stock prices in the past two months, though markets rallied last week. Biden, in his op-ed, indicated that the record-setting pace of job creation in the aftermath of the pandemic would slow dramatically, suggesting more moderate levels of 150,000 jobs per month from 500,000. That, he said, would be no warning of weakness but “a sign that we are successfully moving into the next phase of recovery—as this kind of job growth is consistent with a low unemployment rate and a healthy economy.”

Thursday, June 2, 2022 A19

Pinoy Marino Rights

he diagnosis of a seafarer’s personal doctor, even if made only after a single consultation, may be used as basis for the grant of disability benefits.

The Supreme Court discussed in the case of Luisito Reyes v. Jebsens Maritime (GR 230502 February 15, 2022) the weight of the conflicting medical certifications between the company-designated physician and the seafarer’s personal doctor, which will be evaluated on its merits and not solely on the frequency of consultations. Halfway through his contract, the seafarer was medically repatriated back to the Philippines due to back pain, which he allegedly suffered due to an accident on board the vessel. He was diagnosed to have suffered “compression fracture L1 secondary to osteoporosis.” After physical therapy sessions 108 days from repatriation, the company doctor issued a medical certificate declaring him fit to work The seafarer then consulted two personal doctors who, after thorough history taking and physical examination, issued medical reports with

the findings that the seafarer had lost his pre-injury capacity and was unfit to go back to his previous work due to the said impairment. Due to recurring lower back pain, the seafarer was declared to have permanent disability and permanently unfit in any capacity for further sea duties. The seafarer filed a complaint before the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) for disability benefits, which was dismissed because, among others, the diagnoses and findings of his personal doctors were issued much later and after single consultations with the seafarer without adequate tests to support the same. Medical findings of the company-designated physician are given weight as such physician is, under the law, obligated to arrive at a definite assessment of the seafarer’s fitness or degree of disability within a period of 120 days from repatriation, sub-

ject to extension of up to 240 days when further medical attention is necessary. It is the company-designated physician’s duty to issue a final medical assessment of the seafarer’s disability grade or his fitness to work. As corollary, the seafarer may also consult a physician of his choice. The Supreme Court, in the instant case, gave more weight to the certifications of the seafarer’s personal doctors than the company-designated physician. Even if the diagnoses of the seafarer’s second physicians were made only after single consultations, the Supreme Court still found them to be properly supported; as they were based on the very same results of the extensive tests, procedures, and physical therapy sessions of the seafarer, which the company-designated physician relied upon. While the final diagnosis of the company- designated physician deemed the seafarer fit for work, it was also noted therein that the seafarer still reported episodes of numbness in the affected area. Although these episodes were rare, tolerable, and would be resolved at the end of the day, this observation is not insignificant in determining the seafarer’s fitness for sea duty, especially in view of the fact that he sought a second medical opinion less than two weeks after his last treatment with the company-designated physician.

As the certification of the company-designated physician would defeat the seafarer’s claim while the opinion of the independent physicians would uphold such claim, the Court stressed that the law looks tenderly on the laborer. Thus, where the evidence may be reasonably interpreted in two divergent ways, one prejudicial and the other favorable to him, the balance must be tilted in his favor consistent with the principle of social justice. The Supreme Court noted in Magsaysay v. Buenaventura (GR 195878. January 10, 2018) that the judicial bodies should not adopt the declaration hook, line and sinker as it may be set aside if it is shown that the diagnosis of the company doctor is attended with clear bias, has no scientific basis or is not supported by the medical records of the seafarer. In Magsaysay v. Bengson (GR 198528, October 13, 2014), the Court disregarded the company doctor’s categorical declaration that the seafarer’s illness is not work-related for being self-serving. The Court sustained the illness’ work-connection as the facts of the case clearly showed the contributory factor of the seafarer’s daily working conditions to the illness suffered, even in the absence of a contrary opinion of other doctors. Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez.com, or call 0917-5025808 or 0908-8665786.

Sendai framework: The impact of the past on the present in the aftermath of Typhoon Odette By Ricardo Jalad & Dr. Selva Ramachandran

ituated along both the Pacific Typhoon Belt and the socalled ring of fire, the Philippines has a long history of dealing with the devastating impacts of typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other natural hazards. The country has the unfortunate distinction of being hit by an average of 21 tropical cyclones annually. Being an archipelago with long stretches of coastal areas makes the Philippines highly vulnerable to the impact of climate change as well. The consequences have been devasting, with thousands of lives lost over previous decades, and economic losses in the hundreds of billions in terms of direct losses alone. But each disaster has also brought with it lessons on how to better prepare, avoid the loss of life, and reduce economic devastation and damage to infrastructure. These lessons have served to make a dramatic difference in recent years, saving thousands of lives. Regretfully, however, the loss of infrastructure and economic devastation persists. Learning from risk assessments, data, and action building back better in recovery from disasters, is crucial to building resilience for the future.

So, in the aftermath of Typhoon Odette, there must be an even stronger resolve for risk-informed development. In March 2015, with the benefit of hindsight, the move by the government of the Philippines, along with 187 member states, to help lead the approval of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction during the World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction was vital. The shift from managing disasters to managing disaster risk by bringing a greater focus on preparedness and prevention has paid off massively. The devastation following the Great East Japan Earthquake and its cascading economic effects beyond the country’s borders; the impact of Cyclone Pam on the Pacific Island state of Vanuatu, the fury of the 2015 earthquake in Nepal; and the memories of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 were impetus enough to build back better in recovery, and for ensuring that no one is left behind. At 315 kilometers per hour, the strength of Typhoon Yolanda exceeded most existing coping mechanisms and capacities, ripping apart infrastructure, devastating communities, and public and private institutions. Stakeholders including UNDP

knew that rebuilding must focus on enhancing resilience. While typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions among other natural hazards are inevitable, the high death tolls and huge economic impact should not be. The actions and policies taken by the Philippine authorities to protect people and infrastructure is evidenced by investments made since Typhoon Yolanda in science-based risk assessment, improved early warning systems, coordinated approach from national agencies, and reinforcing the important leadership role of local officials. While the impact of Typhoon Yolanda resulted in unwanted outcomes, this also provided an opportunity to incorporate resiliency measures, including strengthening risk governance, in the rebuilding process. More importantly, it helped restore immediate access to government services both to national and local, crucial to sustaining lives and livelihoods. This all paid off when typhoon Odette hit recently. Working ahead of landfall, authorities pre-emptively evacuated a total of 828,704 individuals and provided assistance to a total of 1,816,603 individuals in evacuation centers, hence saving many lives.

Even now the lessons from the Yolanda experience have served as a reference point for both the Philippine government and UNDP Philippines as we continue to enhance the effectiveness of resilient recovery measures. As the midterm review of the Sendai framework kicks off, the Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, in collaboration with UNDP, is taking stock of progress. With Typhoon Odette devastating many provinces, the retrospective review can help guide future policies and strategies. The mid-term review sought to consider the complexities of recovery for communities exposed to systemic and multidimensional risks. With the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and high exposure to geological hazards, there is a need to build resilience to historical events, as well as future climate change risks. Given our experience from the pandemic and global warming, we know that building resilience is primordial to achieve sustained national growth and security. Ricardo Jalad is the Administrator, Office of Civil Defense, and Undersecretary of the Department of National Defense, and Dr. Selva Ramachandran is the Resident Representative, UNDP Philippines.

Saudi Arabia is planning the largest buildings ever constructed By Vivian Nereim Bloomberg Opinion

audi Arabia is planning the world’s largest buildings in a mostly unpopulated part of the country as part of an entirely new $500 billion development called Neom, according to people familiar with the matter. Neom, the brainchild of Saudi Crown Prince and de facto ruler Mohammed bin Salman, aims to build twin skyscrapers about 500 meters (1,640 feet) tall that stretch horizontally for dozens of miles, the people said. The skyscrapers would house a mix of residential, retail and office space running from the Red Sea coast into the desert, the people said, asking not to be identified as the information is private. The plan is a shift from the

concept announced last year of building a string of developments linked by underground hyper-speed rail, into a long continuous structure, the people said. Designers were instructed to work on a half mile-long prototype, current and former Neom employees said. If it goes forward in full, each structure would be larger than the world’s current biggest buildings, most of which are factories or malls rather than residential communities. Announced in 2017, Neom is Prince Mohammed’s plan to turn a remote region of the country into a high-tech semi-autonomous state that re-imagines urban life. It’s part of his plans to attract foreign investment and help diversify the Saudi economy away from a reliance on oil sales. The Line, as the

car-free linear city that will form the backbone of Neom is known, could cost up to $200 billion to build, the prince said last year, though that was before the plan changed to include gigantic horizontal buildings. “The Line is an out of the box idea,” Neom chief executive office Nadhmi Al-Nasr said in an interview, declining to comment on the specifics of the plan. “What we will present when we are ready to will be very well received, and will be viewed as revolutionary.” To plan The Line, Neom worked with a California-based architecture firm called Morphosis, according to current and former employees at the Saudi project. Morphosis -- founded by Thom Mayne, once dubbed “the bad boy” of American architecture -- didn’t respond to requests for comment.

The buildings would be “different heights as you go,” adapting to the landscape, with their final size determined by engineering considerations and the terrain, Al-Nasr said. The Middle East is already home to the world’s tallest building, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. Long before the rise of Prince Mohammed, Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal had announced plans to build the world’s tallest building near Jeddah. The skyscraper remains only partially completed. Some of Saudi Arabia’s financial windfall from higher oil prices is likely to end up going toward building Neom. Government officials have said one beneficiary of surplus funds could be the powerful Public Investment Fund, which is chaired by Prince Mohammed and the owner of Neom.

A20 Thursday, June 2, 2022

D.A. FIRM IN POLICY VS. CORRUPTION, SAYS DAR By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

GR ICULTUR E Secretar y William D. Dar on Wednesday said the Department of Agriculture (DA) remains firm in its “no to corruption” policy following a House hearing on the accusation of an agriculture official allegedly involved in extortion. In a statement, Dar said he condemns in the “strongest terms” smuggling and all other forms of illegal entry of agricultural products in the country, since these “deprive” Filipino food producers of “much-needed livelihoods and income.” “We call upon everyone in the ‘OneDA Family’ particularly those who transact business as part of their functions at the DA regulatory agencies, to come forward if they have knowledge of any misconduct, especially of corruption, and present evidence so we can act on them with urgency,” he added. “The DA remains steadfast in our drive against graft and corruption,” he added. Dar noted that Jesusa Ascutia of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) was accused of extortion by a Cambridge Consumers’ Cooperative, an importer, during a House Committee on Agriculture and Food hearing last Monday. Citing its internal investigation, Dar pointed out that Ma. Wilma Ocampo of Cambridge filed an extortion complaint against Ascutia at the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office. The complaint was dismissed by the prosecutor’s office due to “insufficient evidence.” “As part of our thorough investigation on the matter, we studied the complaint and administrative records of Ms. Jesusa Ascutia of the Bureau of Plant Industry Quarantine Office, the

one being accused of extortion by Cambridge,” he said. “The 2022 extortion complaint filed by Cambridge was dismissed by the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office due to insufficient evidence, quoting its resolution: The records show that the case is bereft of evidence that would prove the validity of the complaint,” he added. Furthermore, Dar revealed that Cambridge is currently facing allegations of technical smuggling. “ T he compla int of Ms. Ocampo was a result of the apprehension of their shipment of two container vans of vegetables, which Ms. Ascutia and BPI Quarantine Team found misdeclared,” Dar said. However, Dar said Ascutia already has a history of reassignment due to “allegations of corruption.” In 2017, Ascutia was transferred to the DA Office of the Secretary but appealed her reassignment before the Civil Service Commission (CSC). “The CSC decided in her favor due to lack of merit for reassignment, thus ordering her reinstatement at the BPI,” Dar said. “In closing, the DA Legal Service continues its thorough internal investigation on the allegations, including possible lapses and administrative violations. We reiterate our drive to purge this agency completely of corruption,” he added. During the House hearing, Ocampo claimed that certain employees of the BPI led by Ascutia tried to extort P500,000 in exchange for the release of their imported vegetables. Quezon Rep. Wilfrido Mark M. Enverga, who chairs the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, urged the DA to take necessary actions regarding the complaints and allegations against their “questionable” personnel.

Manufacturing firms grow employment levels in May

By Bianca Cuaresma

@BcuaresmaBM

ANUFACTURING firms were seen to have increased their employment levels in May for the first time since February 2020, despite the slightly weaker overall performance of the manufacturing sector during the month. In a report, S&P Global announced that the Philippines’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell “fractionally” from 54.3 in April to 54.1 in May. Despite the slower growth, this is the second-fastest rate of PMI in the country since November 2018. “The latest survey data signaled a further expansion across the Philippines manufacturing sector.

Growth remained strong despite output and new orders increasing at slightly softer rates,” Maryam Baluch, Economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said. A country’s PMI is meant to gauge the health of its manufacturing sector. It is calculated as a weighted average of five individual subcomponents. Readings above 50 show growth in the industry while

readings below the 50 threshold signal a contraction in the manufacturing sector. A reading of 50, meanwhile, showed no change to the sector. According to S&P Global, the ongoing Covid-19 recovery and the relaxation of the pandemic restrictions in the Philippines resulted in improved domestic demand conditions, which lead to the continued growth in the PMI. More notable is the increase in employment rates for manufacturing companies during the month, which was previously in continuous decline since the beginning of the pandemic in February 2020. “Demand recovery and greater production requirements resulted in a rise in payroll numbers in May. Workforce numbers increased for the first time since February 2020, and at a moderate pace. Job creation in May follows unchanged staffing numbers

seen in April,” S&P Global said. Baluch also said strong demand conditions, coupled with expectations of continued positive performance in the manufacturing sector, led to the increase in hiring activity for the first time since early-2020. The economist, however, warned of “persistent inflationary pressures” and supply chain disruptions which have been further exacerbated by the war in Ukraine and China’s zero-Covid policy. According to Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort, the country’s PMI “could still improve further” going forward, in view of the continued return to normalcy in the country—which spurs a further pick-up in local and foreign tourism, resumption of in-person schooling after the accelerated administration of vaccine/booster doses vs. Covid-19, among others.

BBM asks SC: Junk petition to cancel COC By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

RESIDENT-ELECT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Wednesday asked the Supreme Court to dismiss the petition seeking to cancel his certificate of candidacy (COC) and prevent him from assuming his post as the country’s 17th President. In a 45-page comment on the petition, Marcos through his lawyer, former Solicitor General Estelito Mendoza, said the dismissal is warranted in order to protect the free choice of more than 31 million Filipinos who elected the former senator as President. “Even after every public effort made to discredit him prior to the elections, the overwhelming majority of the Filipino people was steadfast and in no uncertain terms stated that BBM is their President,” Mendoza said. “Thus, to cancel BBM’s certificate of candidacy for any reason let alone such flimsy basis as imaginary ‘misrepresentation’ would be to inflict the ultimate indignity on the will of the sovereign Filipino people, a massive affront to our democracy and complete negation of republicanism of our government,” he added. Marcos was proclaimed last week as the duly-elected President by the two chambers of Congress after the Supreme Court failed to grant the petitioners’ plea for the issuance of

a temporary restraining order (TRO) to enjoin his proclamation. Instead, the SC gave the Marcos camp, the Commission on Elections, the Senate and the House of Representatives 15 days to comment on the petition filed by several human rights groups. The resolution covers only the petition filed by Fr. Christian Buenafe, Fides Lim, Ma. Edeliza Hernandez, Celia Lagman Sevilla, Roland Vibal, and Josephine Lascano, representatives of various human-rights groups namely the Task Force Detainees of the Philippines (TFDP), Kapatid-Families and Friends of Political Prisoners (Kapatid), Medical Action Group, Inc. (MAG), Families of Victims of Involuntary Disappearance Inc. (FIND), Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates Inc. (Pahra) and Balay Rehabilitation Center Inc. (Balay). A similar petition was filed by the Campaign Against the Return of the Marcoses and Martial Law (CARMMA) before the SC but no action has been issued by the Court yet. CARMMA is also seeking the issuance of a TRO/writ of preliminary injunction to enjoin the Senate and the House from canvassing the votes cast in favor of Marcos and reverse the Comelec resolution dismissing their petition to disqualify Marcos on the ground of his previous criminal conviction. Continued on A5

HIGH ALERT Manila Police District Command's Special Weapons and Tactics unit beefs up its security patrol in populated areas such as Divisoria market on Wednesday, June 1, 2022. Security within Metro Manila was ramped up following two recent bombings in Mindanao, on orders of the regional director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), Maj. Gen. Felipe Natividad.

ROY DOMINGO

New tourism chief: In ‘unity’ there will be fun By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo

@akosistellaBM Special to the BusinessMirror

HE incoming Secretary of Tourism hopes to shine a spotlight on the lesser known leisure destinations in the country to spread out the benefits of economic growth. In an interview with CNN Philippines’s The Source on Wednesday, re-elected Liloan Mayor Christina Garcia Frasco did not say if she would keep the country’s current branding campaign, “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” but added, she will “consult with President [Ferdinand Marcos Jr.] on his vision and direction for our country, and we will surely agree on the branding approach that we will have in time to come. But I think what’s important is that with this new administration, the essentials of branding as a country are made quite clear as far as inculcating a deep love of country and unity as a foundation

for peace and progress.” She also batted for financial assistance as a social net for tourism stakeholders badly affected by the pandemic and other calamities. “I believe that it’s very, very important that in times of crisis, they feel the hand of government extends to them as far as cushioning the blow of these negative circumstances that have befallen the tourism industry.” Pushing for the promotion of lesser-known tourism destinations in the country, Garcia Frasco said, “Our country is blessed with such a beautiful wealth of natural resources from north, south and towards our islands as well. And each region carries its own distinct character. So if you talk about beaches, we have a lot of beaches, but what many don’t know is that in neighboring towns there are also beautiful churches that can be promoted as well as products that have not yet been marketed.” She cited her mother, Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia’s “Suroy, Suroy

Sa Sugbu” program as a template for such a program which had been successful in showing tourists less known destinations in the province. Prior to the pandemic, Cebu attracted the most number of foreign tourists compared to other destinations.

Giving up spox post

GARCIA FRASCO also said she “did not seek the post” of Tourism Secretary, but had a previous opportunity to discuss with Marcos Jr. “his vision for tourism” and how Cebu tourism managed to survive the pandemic and Typhoon Odette. She will relinquish her position as spokesperson for Vice Presidentelect Sara Z. Duterte once she assumes her post at the Department of Tourism (DOT). Mea nwh i le, Ga rc i a Frasco thanked incumbent Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo Puyat “for her service to our country… and I congratulate her on all of her accomplishments as Secretary of the DOT. I thank her as well for

the very warm welcome that she has extended by way of a statement and I look forward to receiving all the plans and accomplishment reports in relation to her time in the DOT.” Romulo Puyat had kept the country’s current branding campaign, “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” saying in 2018 that it was “successful” and “it works.” It was conceived by advertising agency BBDO Guerrero, and launched in January 2012 under then Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez Jr., an advertising veteran. In 2016, Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo was intent on changing the slogan, but decided to keep it after being encouraged by then World Tourism Organization Secretary General Taleb Rifai to keep it as it was effective. Tourism stakeholders also echoed their support for the retention of the “fun” branding. (See, “Stakeholders to DOT: Let’s keep ‘It’s More Fun…’ tourism slogan,” in the BusinessMirror, September 14, 2016.)

Companies

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Thursday, June 2, 2022

DMCI Mining core income hits record in Jan-March

By Jonathan L. Mayuga

@jonlmayuga

MCI Mining Corp. said its core net income in the first quarter rose by 14 percent to P543 million from P477 million, its highest for any given quarter.

The company said its revenues grew faster at P25 percent to P1.4 billion, from P1.1 billion, on account of higher nickel ore shipments and favorable foreign exchange rates, according to DMCI Mining President Tulsi Das C. Reyes. Despite the depletion of its Berong mine, DMCI Mining boosted its total shipments by 26 percent from 494,000 wet metric tons (WMT) to 620,000 WMT on the back

of its robust beginning inventory of 389,000 WMT. “We had a very good start to the year. Unfortunately, without a second operating asset, it would be impossible to maintain our output,” Reyes said. “Our main challenge now is securing the necessary permits to expand our operations.” From January to March, total production plunged by 43 percent to 318,000 WMT from 555,000

WMT on the nil production of Berong Nickel Corp. (BNC) and a 5-percent uptick in the output of Zambales Diversified Metals Corp. (ZDMC), to 318,000 WMT from 313,000 WMT. The average selling price slipped by 5 percent as BNC sold lower-grade nickel amid higher shipments from ZDMC. DMCI Mining is looking to expand its mining operations by another 3,500 hectares, which have a potential nickel resource of over 200 million WMT. Once fully permitted, these additional operating assets can sustain the company for at least 50 years. In March, the company reported that it posted a net income of P1.7 billion in 2021, nearly three times the P575-million profit it booked in 2020. The company said its net income in 2021, its highest ever, is due to the

record high shipments of nickel ore. DMCI shipped 1.9 million WMT of nickel ore in 2021, 18 percent higher than the 1.6 million WMT the prior year. This is also an “alltime high” for the company. “2021 was a banner year for us. We were able to take advantage of the strong China demand and elevated nickel prices because our two mining assets were operational the whole year,” Reyes said in a statement. Of the total nickel ore shipments, more than 1 million WMT came from BNC while ZDMC accounted for nearly 900,000 WMT. Average selling prices jumped 40 percent to $42 from $30 on low global inventory amid a strongerthan-expected recovery in stainless steel production, steady build-up in electric vehicle battery demand, and the continuing Indonesian nickel ore export ban.

ERC amends 2006 OATS rules

he Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has amended the Open Access Transmission Service (OATS) rules to synchronize with the commission’s existing rules. ERC Chairperson and CEO Agnes VST Devanadera said the 2006 OATS rules need to be revised to integrate more recent regulatory policies and, at the same time, to address concerns raised by electric power industry stakeholders. “The Commission deemed it appropriate to amend the 2006 OATS Rules to harmonize it with relevant rules and guidelines that we have promulgated. The amended OATS Rules will

also clarify concerns from the various transmission customers, the Department of Energy (DOE), and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), particularly on the computation of Transmission Charges. In addition, we have also set the Transmission Charges that will be applicable to Embedded Generators (EGs) that are mandated to register with the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM),” said Devanadera. The significant provisions of the 2006 OATS rules that were amended include the Billing Determinant; System Impact Studies (SIS); Penalty Provisions; Interruption and Curtail-

ment Billing Adjustment; and Force Majeure Adjustment. The OATS rules provide that the ERC may choose to initiate amendments. “The Open Access Transmission Service (OATS) rules 2022 Edition seeks to ensure a more transparent Electricity Market, along with the provision of safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the Power System,” Devanadera stressed. The rules, terms and conditions for the provision of OATS rules spells out the services provided by the Transmission Network Provider that operates the high voltage backbone transmission system. It outlines the responsibilities of the Transmission

Network Provider and the functions of the System Operator as specified in the Philippine Grid Code (PGC) and the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) Rules. The OATS Rules also set out the responsibilities accepted by Transmission Customers as a condition for receiving the services. Further, the ERC said the OATS rules are grounded on the Implementing Rules and Regulation of Republic Act 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, the PGC and the WESM Rules. The OATS Rules complement the Rules for Setting Transmission Wheeling Rate and the WESM Manuals. Lenie Lectura

SEC bags global awards

he Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has been recognized by international organizations for its efforts in upholding transparency in its function as the country’s corporate regulator. The agency recently bagged the Global Good Governance (3G) Advocacy and Commitment to Corporate Governance Award from London-based Cambridge International Financial Advisory (IFA) for the second straight year. The SEC also received the 3G Transparency Award during the seventh installment of the annual 3G Awards Ceremony held by the London-based finance advisory on May 18 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. “We take these awards as an affirmation of our unwavering effort to champion good governance, transparency and social responsibility in the Philippine corporate sector with the end goal of a better future for Filipinos,” SEC Chairperson Emilio B. Aquino said, as he received the awards. “As we receive these recognitions, we hope to inspire more meaningful changes in corporations’ governance and business practices, and unlock their potential to contribute to sustainability and development in the Philippines and in the world.” VG Cabuag

ISUZU MAKATI VISIT Noboru Murakami, newly appointed Isuzu Philippines Corp. President, along with Yasuhiko Oyama, Vice President for Sales, recently visited the Isuzu Makati. Led by Chairman D. Edgard A. Cabangon, the Isuzu Gencars group gave the IPC officials a tour around Isuzu Makati's showroom and service shop that follows the new Isuzu Outlet Standard design. Murakami recently took over IPC's presidency last May 16, 2022. Above, he and Mr. Cabangon pose in front of the memorabilia set up in honor of the latter’s father, the late Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua. Mr. Murakami also posed for a group shot with Isuzu Gencars officers and staff: From left, Albert Zata, the VP for Sales and Marketing; Lerma Nacnac, President; Sharon Tan; Giannina Eunice Cabangon, Special Assistant to the President; Mr. Cabangon; Mr. Murakami; Mr. Oyama; Ma. Elena Perez, Service and Parts Manager, and Ma. Victoria Albaña, Sales and Marketing Manager, both of Isuzu Gencars.

‘Okada regains control of integrated resort’ By VG Cabuag @villygc

he group of Japanese pachinko billionaire Kazuo Okada on Wednesday declared that it is once again managing Okada Manila, the $2-billion integrated resort and casino in Entertainment City. The camp of the Japanese businessman said in a statement that regulator Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) has recognized that Kazuo Okada is the controlling entity behind the resort and casino. “Through its legal representatives, Pagcor has made it clear through formal correspondence that they fully recognize Kazuo Okada as Okada Manila’s controlling entity and that all legal and financial transactions by Okada Manila should go through Kazuo Okada’s officially designated representatives,” Okada said in a statement. “All operations remain business as usual.” Okada is the founder and former chairman and president of Universal Entertainment Inc., the company that owns Tiger Resorts, Leisure and Entertainment Inc. (TRLEI), which in turn operates Okada Manila. On Tuesday, a group identified with Okada took over the casino’s premises with the help of private guards and Paranaque policemen, sparking a protest from TRLEI, which already denounced the move saying it was “illegal and violent” takeover (Related: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2022/05/31/storm-overokada-tiger-resorts-slams-illegal-violenttakeover-of-premises-of-casino-hotel/). Okada’s camp claimed that in April, the Supreme Court issued a status quo ante order that recognized Japanese mogul Kazuo Okada as sole representative of Hong Kong’s Tiger Resort Asia Ltd in TRLEI, and directed his immediate reinstatement as shareholder, director, chairman and CEO of the local company. Tiger Resorts, meanwhile, filed an urgent motion for reconsideration to ask the Supreme Court to revoke or reconsider its status quo order. While waiting for the SC decision Okada then re-installed the board of di-

rectors and officers of TRLEI, which was recognized by Pagcor as the legitimate board and officers of the local company. The board designated Okada as chairman, Antonio Cojuangco as president and Dindo Espeleta as vice chairman. “The wheels of justice may grind slowly for Kazuo Okada but he hopes to vindicate himself from all the unfair, unjust and underhanded treatment that he has suffered from people whom he calls ‘rogue employees’ at Universal Entertainment,” Okada’s statement read. “He now works to seek justice against those who have wrongfully claimed what is rightfully his, the crown jewel of his life’s pursuit and the Philippines largest integrated resort, Okada Manila.” Okada sued the officials of TRLEI in 2019 for qualified theft, estafa among other charges for kicking him out of the company that he helped build. The TRLEI explained that, “Prior to his removal, Mr. Kazuo Okada only held one share of stock in the corporation,” adding that, “therefore [he] did not have the authority to take control of the corporation in such unceremonious fashion. There is nothing in the SQAO [Status Quo Ante Order], which remotely authorizes Mr. Kazuo Okada to take over the premises of the corporation, much less with the use of force.” In using the SQAO for their takeover, the Okada group “abused court processes, thereby making a mockery of the administration of justice,” said TRLEI. “The SQAO is a temporary or provisional order, while the assigned division of the Supreme Court is still studying the case and has yet to decide on the merits of the case,” it added. TRLEI claimed the Okada faction forcibly brought officials led by Mr. Hajime Tokuda out of the hotel. “We are appalled at the blatant disregard of authority by the group of Mr. Cojuangco. Without the necessary court order, they arrived with a private security group who forcibly carried the legitimate members of the TRLEI Board out of the property premises,” the statement quoted Atty. Estrella Elamparo, Senior Partner of Divina Law, as saying.

Companies BusinessMirror

Thursday, June 2, 2022

Converge customers to get free speed upgrades–exec

By Lorenz S. Marasigan

@lorenzmarasigan

onverge ICT Solutions Inc. said Tuesday that more than 80 percent of its customers will benefit from the free speed upgrades for its existing subscribers.

In a media briefing, Converge COO Jesus Romero said Converge customers under FiberX Plan 1500 will get a free speed boost, doubling the maximum speed from 50Mbps to 100Mbps. “Majority of our customers are

on the entry level FiberX Plan 1500. All of them will get the free speed upgrade. They represent more than 80 percent of the total subscriber base,” he said. As of end-March, Converge has about 1.8 million subscribers.

“We are just making sure that our customers experience the service that they deserve. Our network can handle it. So we give it [speed boost] to the customers. It’s not going to cost us more money and it’s not going to ruin the experience of other customers,” Romero explained. Converge, as of the first quarter, has laid down over 500,000 kilometers of total fiber assets, expanding its pure fiber network across the country. On top of this, the company has doubled the data transmission capacity of its metro backbone from 400Gbps wavelengths to 800Gbps. This, Romero said, allows Converge users to make full use of the company’s connections to the content distribution networks, peering

partners, and other international exchanges, easily doubling the bandwidth they have for any of their online activities. He added that this initiative is geared towards creating a more loyal base of customers for Converge as opposed to gaining new ones. “We at Converge know how essential it is to have a fast and consistent internet connection for work, school, and even personal use. We’ve expanded our network and equipped it with the latest technology, to ensure Filipinos get the quality internet connection they deserve,” Romero said. All FiberX Plan 1500 subscribers will automatically have their speeds double up to 100Mbps starting June 1.

Yakult to double output capacity of hit drink

akult Honsha Co. plans to double the output capacity of its hit probiotic drink Y1000, Nikkei reports, after a plug by a celebrity vaulted the already popular product on social media, exacerbating shortages across Japan. The company plans to build another line at a domestic factory as soon as July, allowing it to double daily output to 400,000 units from 200,000, Nikkei reported without saying where it obtained the information. Shares of the Tokyo-based company rose as much as 2 percent after the report. The buzz over the drink exploded in April after being featured by the television personality Matsuko Deluxe, who said it could help with sleep and stress. The drink has been sold out at convenience stores and supermarkets, and a version for home delivery has also been in short supply, prompting the company to issue an apology Tuesday. Even before the mention on national television, the product was hard to come by due to increased interest in health-related products amid the coronavirus pandemic.

According to the Nikkei report, the bulk of Yakult’s 11.7 billion yen capital spending budget for the year ending March will go to-

ward buffering the 1000 brand. The product’s name comes from it containing 100 billion (expressed as a thousand hundred

of millions in Japanese) Shirota lactic acid bacteria, named after the company’s founder Minoru Shirota. Bloomberg News

HP’s revenue rises on thriving demand

P Inc. reported sales and profit that topped analysts’ estimates on steady demand by companies upgrading computer systems. Still, the results pointed to some potential issues ahead for the hardware company as consumer spending fell for personal computers and printers. Fiscal second-quarter revenue increased 3.9 percent to $16.5 billion, Palo Alto, California-based HP said Tuesday in a statement. Analysts, on average, projected $16.1 billion. Most of the gains came from business demand for desktop computers. Fiscal second-quarter profit, excluding some items, was $1.08 a share, topping estimates. HP said Personal Systems division revenue increased 9.2 percent to $11.5 billion, led by commercial sales. But consumer sales declined 6 percent and notebook units declined 23 percent in the period, which ended April 30. Printing revenue declined 7 percent to $5 billion, with total hardware units down 23 percent. The consumer slowdown was particularly acute on lowend products and in Europe and China, while premium machines and gaming saw “strong demand,” HP Chief Executive Officer Enrique Lores said in an interview. PC shipments industrywide declined 6.8 percent in the first three months of the year, spurred by reduced demand particularly for Chromebooks used by schools. Rival PC-maker Dell Technologies Inc. reported earnings that beat analyst estimates last week. “The difference is Chromebook exposure. Dell didn’t have as much Chromebook exposure – HP does,” said Bloomberg Intelligence’s Woo Jin Ho. HP is also more exposed to the consumer market, which may be more affected by macroeconomic concerns like inflation, Ho said. Bloomberg News

www.businessmirror.com.ph

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

June 1, 2022

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 PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL MANULIFE NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH SUN LIFE

8,990 191,751,988 1,188,153 170,869,409.50 829,095 1,252,515 50,184,593 9,100 1,358,192 40,167 524,222 60,306,670 9,362,210 2,713,560 505,410 104,500 198,690 114,910 60,000

-8,990 38,754,522 -47,309,741 8,100 336,504 -14,539,707.50 -43,194 -61,812 19,895,326 -599,127.50 352,960 19,060 -

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY 7 7.04 7.17 7.25 7 7 14,366,200 101,485,954 ALSONS CONS 1 1.02 1 1 1 1 21,000 21,000 ABOITIZ POWER 30.95 31 31.8 31.8 30.95 31 1,725,900 53,627,040 0.445 0.45 0.45 0.47 0.445 0.45 14,170,000 6,504,350 BASIC ENERGY 19.2 19.7 19.5 19.78 19.16 19.2 4,174,100 80,848,560 FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG 67.85 67.9 67.9 68 67.85 67.85 50,520 3,430,327 MERALCO 362 366 373.2 373.2 360.4 362 198,670 72,587,222 17.9 17.98 18.3 18.8 17.92 17.98 210,900 3,814,874 MANILA WATER 3.28 3.29 3.22 3.32 3.22 3.29 1,432,000 4,703,120 PETRON 4.75 5 5 5 5 5 10,000 50,000 PETROENERGY PHX PETROLEUM 9.04 9.99 9.99 9.99 9.99 9.99 3,000 29,970 SYNERGY GRID 12.12 12.26 12.56 12.56 12.08 12.12 1,893,000 23,127,768 18.68 18.8 19.2 19.38 18.5 18.68 134,400 2,530,160 PILIPINAS SHELL SPC POWER 11.64 11.68 12.8 12.8 11.52 11.68 1,564,200 18,632,294 SOLAR PH 1.82 1.83 1.81 1.83 1.8 1.83 10,941,000 19,849,760 AGRINURTURE 4.6 4.72 4.61 4.72 4.56 4.72 12,000 55,590 2.27 2.29 2.28 2.29 2.27 2.29 53,000 121,180 AXELUM 21.6 21.7 22.1 22.7 21.7 21.7 457,100 10,031,345 CENTURY FOOD 13.02 13.2 13.36 13.36 12.98 13 90,300 1,174,716 DEL MONTE DNL INDUS 7.12 7.13 7.15 7.2 7.08 7.12 517,500 3,701,552 EMPERADOR 17.9 18.1 17.82 18.14 17.78 18.1 258,400 4,638,646 59.05 60.95 60 61.4 59 60.95 71,990 4,336,000.50 SMC FOODANDBEV 0.485 0.495 0.495 0.5 0.485 0.49 910,000 447,750 FIGARO COFFEE ALLIANCE SELECT 0.58 0.59 0.6 0.6 0.58 0.58 62,000 36,000 FRUITAS HLDG 1.11 1.12 1.11 1.12 1.1 1.12 14,442,000 16,139,080 106.5 109.8 109.8 110 108.4 109.8 17,310 1,898,198 GINEBRA 208.4 208.6 209.6 210 208.4 208.6 564,920 117,959,760 JOLLIBEE 1.16 1.18 1.18 1.18 1.16 1.17 643,000 750,800 KEEPERS HLDG LIBERTY FLOUR 18.8 23 23.3 23.3 23.3 23.3 300 6,990 MACAY HLDG 4.37 6.22 4.32 4.32 4.32 4.32 100 432 5.4 5.59 5.52 5.6 5.4 5.4 159,800 873,826 MAXS GROUP 0.12 0.126 0.124 0.125 0.124 0.124 800,000 99,300 MG HLDG MONDE NISSIN 14.34 14.36 14.5 14.74 14.06 14.34 23,699,100 340,911,442 SHAKEYS PIZZA 7.1 7.3 7.15 7.2 7.15 7.15 73,900 530,085 0.54 0.56 0.56 0.56 0.53 0.56 1,456,000 785,760 ROXAS AND CO 1.08 1.12 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 20,000 22,000 ROXAS HLDG UNIV ROBINA 106.8 107 107.4 108 106 107 548,120 58,720,912 VITARICH 0.61 0.62 0.62 0.62 0.61 0.62 1,033,000 640,330 VICTORIAS 2.5 2.79 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 5,000 14,000 45.5 59 59 59 59 59 30 1,770 CONCRETE B CEMEX HLDG 0.72 0.73 0.72 0.73 0.71 0.72 1,213,000 872,040 EAGLE CEMENT 12.12 12.58 12.2 12.2 12.1 12.1 31,100 376,640 EEI CORP 3.45 3.49 3.55 3.6 3.49 3.49 608,000 2,132,700 5.35 5.36 5.39 5.4 5.35 5.36 71,800 384,934 HOLCIM 4.37 4.38 4.33 4.43 4.31 4.37 74,000 322,330 MEGAWIDE 19.9 19.94 19.9 19.94 19.9 19.94 52,700 1,048,778 PHINMA VULCAN INDL 0.87 0.88 0.9 0.9 0.86 0.87 2,031,000 1,767,100 CROWN ASIA 1.77 1.84 1.84 1.84 1.84 1.84 1,000 1,840 1.02 1.09 1.03 1.11 1.02 1.11 38,000 39,290 EUROMED MABUHAY VINYL 5.2 5.37 5.36 5.37 5.3 5.37 4,400 23,562 PRYCE CORP 5.35 5.5 5.4 5.4 5.35 5.35 21,100 113,010 CONCEPCION 18.26 18.98 18.98 18.98 18.98 18.98 100 1,898 1.71 1.73 1.74 1.78 1.71 1.73 9,157,000 16,032,160 GREENERGY 6.87 6.89 6.87 6.87 6.87 6.87 31,100 213,657 INTEGRATED MICR IONICS 0.59 0.61 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 95,000 57,000 PANASONIC 5.66 6.1 6.12 6.12 5.61 6.1 2,400 14,629 CIRTEK HLDG 2.85 2.9 2.8 2.9 2.8 2.85 870,000 2,497,840

7,590,078 -11,244,530 1,000 -2,239,794 -3,414,688.50 -9,959,934 -184,150 556,420 -6,409,586 -416,840 -68,780 -27,780 -22,840 3,706,970 278,200 -780,856 -835,318.00 -2,875,343.50 15,000 3,330 244,132 -13,253,664 -44,460 -432 -272,257 -124,202,570 -331,730 -128,280 -24,366,366 -138,690 -1,739,540 72,510 -91,320 -19,900 -60,900 -1,074 -3,678,950 6,000 -5,700

ABACORE CAPITAL AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG ATN HLDG A COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP METRO PAC INV PRIME MEDIA SOLID GROUP SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS

25,512,310 -14,553,815 10,518,193.50 -2,010,556 85,500 9,040 817,730 4,842,416 -26,200,370 -290,200 -1,802,715 10,600 -2,990,000 -7,646,979 -23,553,740 -45,646,545 678,121 -

HOLDING & FRIMS

43.75 130.4 9.75 95.8 26.9 7.36 53.9 7 18.76 56.5 19.94 92.05 81 2.02 3.45 920 0.66 195 2,200

1.41 700 51.5 10.68 9 0.9 0.465 4.78 8.99 6.87 501.5 3.53 53.75 0.55 2.97 8.26 3.72 2 0.88 850 105 111.8 0.27

44.95 131.9 9.79 96 26.95 7.37 54.3 7.79 18.78 57.45 19.98 92.15 81.3 2.04 3.48 950 0.69 199 2,400

1.42 701 52.25 10.7 9.1 0.93 0.475 4.8 9 7.08 502 3.6 54 0.56 2.99 8.3 3.73 2.07 0.89 851 105.3 115 0.3

44.95 132 9.71 98.7 27 7.2 54.9 7 18.8 56 20.05 92.95 80.3 2 3.47 950 0.69 206 2,400

1.45 700 53 10.7 9 0.93 0.49 4.82 9 7.08 512 3.67 54 0.54 2.99 8.3 3.75 1.82 0.88 858 104 114 0.27

44.95 132.9 9.83 98.8 27 7.38 54.9 7 18.82 57.5 20.05 93.4 81.05 2.05 3.48 950 0.69 206 2,400

1.47 705 53.5 10.98 9.1 0.93 0.49 4.89 9.13 7.08 512 3.67 54.4 0.55 2.99 8.44 3.77 2.07 0.89 858 105 115 0.27

44.95 128.4 9.7 95.1 26.8 7.2 53.5 7 18.76 56 19.88 91.9 80.3 1.9 3.46 950 0.66 190.5 2,400

1.39 691 51.2 10.68 9 0.9 0.465 4.75 8.95 7.08 500 3.6 53.35 0.5 2.99 8.22 3.7 1.82 0.87 850 102.1 114 0.27

44.95 131.9 9.79 95.8 26.95 7.36 54.3 7 18.78 57.5 19.94 92.15 81 2.02 3.46 950 0.66 195 2,400

1.42 700 51.5 10.7 9.1 0.9 0.475 4.8 8.99 7.08 501.5 3.6 54 0.55 2.99 8.3 3.72 2.07 0.88 850 105 115 0.27

200 1,468,610 122,400 1,776,780 30,800 172,100 930,860 1,300 72,300 700 26,200 651,970 115,910 1,355,000 146,000 110 301,000 590 25

31,076,000 451,430 1,120,410 806,400 10,500 86,000 210,000 487,000 21,868,200 100 194,040 80,000 511,180 200,000 1,000,000 5,562,300 17,680,000 1,616,000 460,000 152,870 61,960 2,230 30,000

44,297,040 315,863,180 58,257,730 8,649,294 94,600 77,690 99,000 2,345,020 197,704,522 708 97,569,735 290,200 27,605,993.50 105,890 2,990,000 46,056,863 65,813,500 3,158,600 404,380 130,391,190 6,478,885 256,179 8,100

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.54 0.56 0.53 0.53 0.53 0.53 10,000 5,300 AYALA LAND 29.55 29.6 29.75 29.95 29.3 29.55 8,795,200 259,300,410 AYALA LAND LOG 4.06 4.1 4.13 4.13 4.05 4.1 328,000 1,340,390 16.2 16.5 16.2 16.5 16.2 16.5 600 9,810 ALTUS PROP ARANETA PROP 1.69 1.72 1.58 1.73 1.58 1.72 1,131,000 1,901,240 AREIT RT 39.8 40 40.5 40.65 39.55 40 465,400 18,662,495 A BROWN 0.79 0.81 0.82 0.83 0.8 0.8 48,000 38,680 0.71 0.72 0.73 0.73 0.71 0.71 86,000 62,500 CITYLAND DEVT 0.089 0.09 0.096 0.096 0.09 0.09 980,000 88,410 CROWN EQUITIES CEB LANDMASTERS 2.69 2.7 2.68 2.7 2.68 2.7 221,000 594,090 CENTURY PROP 0.415 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.41 0.42 360,000 149,500 CITICORE RT 2.55 2.57 2.55 2.58 2.55 2.55 5,220,000 13,333,060 7.91 8.09 8.1 8.15 7.9 7.91 176,400 1,405,965 DOUBLEDRAGON 1.63 1.64 1.63 1.65 1.63 1.64 1,942,000 3,186,170 DDMP RT DM WENCESLAO 6.76 6.8 6.85 6.85 6.77 6.8 41,600 282,886 EMPIRE EAST 0.215 0.217 0.222 0.222 0.216 0.216 470,000 102,400 0.28 0.285 0.285 0.285 0.27 0.285 9,170,000 2,559,650 EVER GOTESCO 7.3 7.32 7.39 7.39 7.12 7.32 1,156,500 8,282,086 FILINVEST RT 0.93 0.94 0.93 0.95 0.92 0.94 9,423,000 8,780,540 FILINVEST LAND GLOBAL ESTATE 0.85 0.89 0.86 0.89 0.85 0.85 702,000 599,780 8990 HLDG 10.32 10.46 10.5 10.5 10.32 10.46 32,200 337,352 0.92 0.96 0.95 0.95 0.95 0.95 28,000 26,600 PHIL INFRADEV CITY AND LAND 0.78 0.79 0.82 0.82 0.78 0.79 53,000 42,330 MEGAWORLD 2.77 2.78 2.77 2.81 2.77 2.78 3,223,000 8,975,660 MRC ALLIED 0.206 0.21 0.21 0.21 0.205 0.21 1,620,000 335,000 16.4 16.7 16.6 17.02 16.4 16.4 2,896,100 48,426,440 MREIT RT 0.395 0.405 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 30,000 12,000 PHIL ESTATES PRIMEX CORP 1.95 1.96 2.02 2.07 1.96 1.96 664,000 1,320,980 RL COMM RT 6.79 6.8 6.88 6.91 6.8 6.8 7,382,700 50,521,819 ROBINSONS LAND 19.46 19.48 19.4 19.46 19.04 19.46 973,200 18,831,464 0.224 0.239 0.223 0.24 0.223 0.24 220,000 51,230 PHIL REALTY ROCKWELL 1.28 1.3 1.27 1.27 1.27 1.27 2,000 2,540 SHANG PROP 2.45 2.55 2.5 2.56 2.45 2.56 46,000 112,910 STA LUCIA LAND 2.78 2.9 2.95 2.95 2.9 2.9 80,000 232,650 36.7 37.05 37.35 37.35 36.6 37.05 13,873,500 511,694,740 SM PRIME HLDG 0.55 0.62 0.55 0.55 0.55 0.55 15,000 8,250 SOC RESOURCES VISTAMALLS 3.24 3.38 3.38 3.38 3.37 3.37 9,000 30,390 VISTA LAND 2.43 2.46 2.42 2.47 2.4 2.46 656,000 1,605,600 SERVICES ABS CBN 9.82 10.26 10.42 10.42 9.8 10.28 92,100 916,382 GMA NETWORK 11.78 11.8 11.9 11.9 11.8 11.8 343,700 4,070,688 MLA BRDCASTING 7.83 8.95 8.96 8.96 8.96 8.96 200 1,792 2,404 2,408 2,466 2,486 2,400 2,404 206,465 499,418,560 GLOBE TELECOM 1,907 1,912 1,933 1,939 1,902 1,907 87,760 168,062,235 PLDT APOLLO GLOBAL 0.045 0.046 0.046 0.046 0.044 0.046 207,300,000 9,349,000 CONVERGE 25.9 26.05 26.45 26.45 25.8 26.05 15,683,900 407,957,250 3.26 3.35 3.3 3.42 3.16 3.26 512,000 1,681,370 DFNN INC DITO CME HLDG 4.55 4.59 4.45 4.6 4.43 4.55 3,955,000 17,784,990 1.58 1.64 1.58 1.58 1.58 1.58 2,000 3,160 JACKSTONES NOW CORP 1.42 1.43 1.47 1.49 1.41 1.42 3,166,000 4,543,200 TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.32 0.325 0.32 0.33 0.31 0.32 8,920,000 2,883,500 7 7.38 7.1 7.3 7 7.3 15,600 112,442 2GO GROUP ASIAN TERMINALS 13.3 13.88 13.5 13.88 13.22 13.88 1,600 21,820 CHELSEA 1.46 1.48 1.48 1.48 1.47 1.48 27,000 39,840 CEBU AIR 45.1 45.5 45.2 46.9 45.1 45.1 262,400 11,891,295 210.2 214.6 217 218 210.2 210.2 1,211,350 256,797,110 INTL CONTAINER 24 26 25.05 27 25.05 26 8,300 216,060 LBC EXPRESS 0.62 0.84 0.65 0.65 0.61 0.62 137,000 84,570 LORENZO SHIPPNG MACROASIA 4.9 4.91 5.03 5.03 4.84 4.9 439,000 2,153,720 PAL HLDG 6.1 6.18 6.19 6.19 6.1 6.1 1,800 11,037 0.99 1.01 1.02 1.04 0.99 1.01 355,000 358,330 HARBOR STAR 0.091 0.092 0.092 0.093 0.091 0.091 26,220,000 2,394,420 BOULEVARD HLDG DISCOVERY WORLD 1.65 1.68 1.68 1.68 1.68 1.68 5,000 8,400 WATERFRONT 0.435 0.45 0.42 0.435 0.42 0.435 260,000 110,550 531 540 530 530 530 530 300 159,000 FAR EASTERN U STI HLDG 0.345 0.35 0.345 0.345 0.345 0.345 10,000 3,450 1.26 1.27 1.27 1.27 1.26 1.26 727,000 921,290 BELLE CORP BLOOMBERRY 6.3 6.45 6.36 6.5 6.3 6.3 2,336,300 14,857,517 PACIFIC ONLINE 1.31 1.39 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.4 4,000 5,600 1.31 1.34 1.31 1.34 1.31 1.34 2,654,000 3,499,820 LEISURE AND RES MANILA JOCKEY 1.79 1.98 1.9 1.9 1.79 1.79 11,000 20,460 PH RESORTS GRP 1.15 1.16 1.15 1.18 1.15 1.16 780,000 910,480 PREMIUM LEISURE 0.41 0.415 0.415 0.42 0.415 0.415 3,180,000 1,321,500 4 4.05 3.74 4.15 3.67 4.05 6,467,000 25,861,330 PHILWEB 0.405 0.41 0.41 0.415 0.405 0.41 6,870,000 2,813,150 ALLDAY 5.43 5.45 5.39 5.45 5.2 5.45 3,456,700 18,263,022 ALLHOME METRO RETAIL 1.43 1.44 1.43 1.43 1.43 1.43 215,000 307,450 PUREGOLD 33.55 33.6 33 34.15 33 33.6 850,300 28,629,090 53.2 53.4 53.4 53.5 52.05 53.2 312,370 16,607,160.50 ROBINSONS RTL 53.8 54 54 54 54 54 7,910 427,140 PHIL SEVEN CORP SSI GROUP 1.38 1.4 1.41 1.42 1.37 1.4 4,361,000 6,095,670 WILCON DEPOT 26.6 26.9 26.4 26.9 26.4 26.6 689,900 18,360,185 0.22 0.223 0.22 0.223 0.22 0.223 300,000 66,780 APC GROUP EASYCALL 4.01 4.59 4.01 4.01 4.01 4.01 2,000 8,020 IPM HLDG 6.6 7 6.85 7 6.8 7 7,100 48,400 MEDILINES 0.67 0.68 0.68 0.69 0.67 0.68 390,000 264,370 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.43 0.435 0.425 0.435 0.42 0.435 2,190,000 930,450 3.95 3.98 3.98 3.98 3.98 3.98 5,000 19,900 SBS PHIL CORP MINING & OIL ATOK 7.6 7.9 7.98 7.98 7.65 7.9 66,600 521,153 APEX MINING 1.6 1.61 1.61 1.61 1.58 1.61 400,000 640,720 5.93 6 6.03 6.03 5.93 5.93 65,800 391,947 ATLAS MINING 7.06 7.1 7.04 7.45 7.04 7.1 64,400 454,911 BENGUET A BENGUET B 6.95 7.19 7.1 7.19 7 7.19 58,200 410,747 CENTURY PEAK 2.72 2.78 2.78 2.78 2.78 2.78 3,000 8,340 2.58 2.63 2.65 2.67 2.56 2.63 808,000 2,110,200 FERRONICKEL 0.175 0.183 0.175 0.175 0.175 0.175 240,000 42,000 GEOGRACE LEPANTO A 0.135 0.136 0.134 0.134 0.134 0.134 140,000 18,760 LEPANTO B 0.134 0.14 0.134 0.134 0.134 0.134 300,000 40,200 MANILA MINING A 0.0095 0.0097 0.0094 0.0094 0.0094 0.0094 6,000,000 56,400 0.0093 0.01 0.0097 0.0097 0.0097 0.0097 2,000,000 19,400 MANILA MINING B MARCVENTURES 1.7 1.71 1.75 1.77 1.68 1.7 2,414,000 4,140,390 NIHAO 0.94 1.01 1 1 0.93 0.94 59,000 57,860 NICKEL ASIA 7.04 7.07 7.25 7.25 6.97 7.04 5,683,700 40,070,863 0.79 0.81 0.8 0.84 0.8 0.81 1,763,000 1,429,610 ORNTL PENINSULA 4.43 4.5 4.47 4.49 4.39 4.44 361,000 1,595,220 PX MINING 35.2 35.25 33.7 35.55 33.7 35.25 14,598,700 507,643,335 SEMIRARA MINING ACE ENEXOR 12.44 12.58 12.6 12.62 12.4 12.58 91,300 1,145,938 ORNTL PETROL A 0.011 0.012 0.012 0.012 0.011 0.011 22,400,000 251,600 0.009 0.0091 0.0091 0.0091 0.0091 0.0091 2,000,000 18,200 PHILODRILL PXP ENERGY 4.8 4.82 4.89 4.9 4.75 4.8 100,000 480,740 PREFFERED HOUSE PREF B 97.5 100 100 100 100 100 640 64,000 ALCO PREF D 501 518 519 519 519 519 20 10,380 CPG PREF A 100.8 102 102 102 100.8 102 1,010 101,916 99.2 100 99.15 99.15 99.15 99.15 240 23,796 DD PREF JFC PREF B 965 991 990 994 965 965 270 267,200 MWIDE PREF 2B 100 100.5 100.4 100.5 100.4 100.5 890 89,442 PNX PREF 3B 100.4 101 100.9 101 100.9 101 330 33,300 972 985 970 985 970 985 170 166,680 PNX PREF 4 PCOR PREF 3A 1,040 1,051 1,052 1,052 1,051 1,051 70 73,620 PCOR PREF 3B 1,080 1,083 1,082 1,083 1,081 1,083 565 611,640 SMC PREF 2H 75.3 76.8 75.25 75.25 75.25 75.25 660 49,665 SMC PREF 2J 74.55 75.15 74.55 74.55 74.55 74.55 1,800 134,190 54.3 58.35 54.8 54.8 54.8 54.8 4,000 219,200 TECH PREF B2D PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 9.39 10.36 10.32 10.32 9.39 9.39 72,100 743,979 GMA HLDG PDR 11.2 11.3 11.5 11.5 11.3 11.3 12,500 141,410 WARRANTS TECH WARRANT 0.52 0.54 0.55 0.55 0.52 0.54 22,000 11,690

-75,092,285 -94,330 6,194,055 50,820 -21,000 5,314,430 -39,657 357,400 -1,120,000 690,093 -6,978,250 -87,348 402,750 -11,856,250 -13,674,697 -3,960,170.00 -4,258,460 464,950 -39,211,970 -4,012,395 4,500 -43,845,530 -3,342,610 334,180 23,500 -4,516,045 -130,486,246 -2,700 9,880 -1,920 13,950 -3,450.00 -669,290 6,368,386 -292,500 498,000 -171,200 463,300 -328,941 5,999,155 3,118,222.50 -427,140 1,856,240 49,865 13,600 -21,050 19,950 -65,770 -39,574 129,660 -20,750 10,670,983 4,150 330,590 80,738,110 -66,398 -

SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES

CTS GLOBAL HAUS TALK ITALPINAS MERRYMART XURPAS

0.81 1 0.83 1.61 0.32

0.82 1.03 0.85 1.62 0.33

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS FIRST METRO ETF

103.5

104

0.84 1.01 0.83 1.61 0.325

0.84 1.05 0.86 1.62 0.33

0.82 1 0.81 1.58 0.32

0.82 1 0.85 1.6 0.32

1,452,000 104,000 201,000 679,000 880,000

1,193,240 104,680 167,730 1,088,920 284,650

99,400 () 58,860 -1,660 -

105.9 106 103.5 103.5 12,750 1,330,578 91,532

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Banking&Finance

Customs bureau donates seized fuel to govt troops

HE Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) donated over 47,000 liters of seized fuel to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). In a statement last Wednesday, the Department of Finance (DOF) said 47,356.8 liters of fuel were seized by the BOC and forfeited in favor of the government following the agency’s enforcement activities under the fuel marking program. Of the total volume of seized fuel, 41,356.8 liters will be turned over by the BOC to PCG while another 6,000 liters will be given to the military. About 11,000 liters of unmarked diesel fuel were seized in February 24 last year inside the premises of Joycel Bus Lines in Caloocan City. No duties and taxes were paid for unmarked fuel. The forfeiture order for this unmarked fuel became final and executory on January 27 this year, paving the way for its donation to the Coast Guard. Apart from this, unmarked diesel fuel was also found stored in the facilities of Lemiz Fuel Station and Star Oil/Min Ley Gasoline Station, both located in Meycauyan, Bulacan, and at the Fuel Source Gas Station in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija during several field testing operations done in Metro Manila and nearby provinces late last year. Unmarked fuel stocks with a volume of 23,999 liters were, likewise, forfeited in favor of the government on January 5 this year and will be turned over to the PCG. In September last year, the BOC also confiscated 6,357.8 liters of fuel at a retail gas station in Arayat, Pampanga, operated by Luzon Petromobil Integrated Service Stations Inc. As part of its mutual assistance agreement with the Armed Forces of

the Philippines (AFP), the BOC will also donate 6,000 liters of automotive diesel fuel to the military. Under the agreement, the AFP will provide the manpower to assist the BOC in its law enforcement activities while the latter will, upon forfeiture of its seized illegal fuel, donate them to the AFP. Under Section 7 of the DOFBOC-Bureau of Internal Revenue Joint Circular 001-2021, petroleum products that are unmarked, with diluted markers or have counterfeit fuel markers shall be subject to duties and taxes, inclusive of the appropriate fines and penalties. This is without prejudice to the confiscation and forfeiture of such products and the filing of the appropriate criminal cases against those liable for violating the law. Section 1141 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act allows goods that are subject to forfeiture proceedings to be donated to another agency, upon the approval of the DOF Secretary. Since the fuel marking program was implemented in September 2019, the government has so far collected P429.77 billion in duties and taxes on fuel as of mid-May this year as it marked 41.33 billion liters of fuel. The fuel-marking program was launched with the aim of halting illegal importation, manufacturing and other fraudulent activities relating to the use and sale of petroleum products in the country. Fuel marking makes use of a unique chemical marker that can be embedded at a molecular level in petroleum products—gasoline, diesel and kerosene—thereby enabling authorities to test, identify and distinguish petroleum products with paid excise taxes. Bernadette D. Nicolas

Senate probe into ₧843.9B losses of SSS in ’21 pressed By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

ENATOR Francis N. Tolentino has pressed for a Senate inquiry into the reported net loss amounting to P843.9-billion incurred by the Social Security System (SSS). In filing Resolution 1006, Tolentino picked up the cudgel for SSS members contributing to the pension funds paving the way for Senate probers to look into the huge SSS losses. The Resolution cited the 2021 unaudited financial statement of SSS stating it incurred multi-billion net losses adding up to more than P843 billion worth. Also mentioned in the Resolution were “legal and technical” explanations by the SSS in attempting to clarify how the losses came about. For instance, it cited reforms in the Philippine Financial Reporting (accounting) Standards (PFRS) and the consideration of benefits SSS was to pay in the future. In a statement issued last Monday, the SSS said its adoption of the PFRS 4, which recognizes Social Benefit Liabilities and the Margin for Adverse Deviation, “resulted in an increase in policy reserves of P872 billion that contributed to the accounting net loss of nearly P844 billion for 2021.” Resolution 1006 emphasized the need for SSS to ensure the cash flow is “secured and robust” to respond to the need of its members.

Need to scrutinize

IN the statement, SSS President and CEO Michael G. Regino clarified “that the increase in policy reserves is not actual cash that went out of the fund in 2021.” “These are simply estimates of the required reserves to fund future benefit claims,” Regino said. “We recognize these future liabilities as early as now to be more transparent in managing the SSS fund and to create a clearer view of

our long-term financial standing,” the SSS chief added. “We assure our stakeholders that this does not affect our current cash flows and we remain financially viable in terms of providing benefits to our members.” Still, Tolentino says that even if the explanation on the losses was sufficient, there was still a need to scrutinize and verify the effect of the losses on the financial viability of the SSS to pay the members’ benefits. At the same time, the senator noted there is also a “need to assess the security benefits” of the growing number of SSS members, adding this may ‘provide the basis if there is need for a new enabling law and regulation in order to secure the financial stability of the SSS.”

BusinessMirror

Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Thursday, June 2, 2022

IC allows pre-need firms to use 34% of trust fund for investment

By Bernadette D. Nicolas

@BNicolasBM

HE Insurance Commission (IC) gave pre-need companies a wider berth in the use of their respective trust fund for investments.

Through its issuance of Circular Letter 2022-25 signed by IC chief Dennis B. Funa, the regulator mandated an additional 2-percent increase in the investment threshold allocation of pre-need companies “to provide additional flexibility and to maximize gains on higher-yield investments of the trust fund.” The upward adjustment shall apply to the following: long-term commercial papers; direct loans to corporations and planholders; eq-

uities; and, real estate, the circular letter dated May 19 read. The order, to note, was only uploaded on the IC web site last Wednesday. The first time that the IC increased the investment threshold allocation was in 2017, also by 2 percent, amid the trend of flat and declining investment yields. With the additional increase in investment threshold allocation, pre-need companies may now set aside 34 percent of the total amount of the trust fund to equi-

ties from 32 percent. Likewise, the cap on investments in long-term commercial papers is now raised from 17 percent to 19 percent of the total amount of trust fund; in direct loans to planholders from 12 percent to 14 percent; in real estate from 12 percent to 14 percent, and, in direct loans to corporations from 7 percent to 9 percent. In 2021, the pre-need industry’s investment in trust funds grew by 8.95 percent to P97.2 billion from P89.2 billion in the previous year. The industry’s total premium income also climbed by 11.06 percent year-onyear to P19.76 billion in 2021 from P17.79 billion in 2020 as it sold more plans during the period. Under the Pre-Need Code, companies engaged in preneed business are required to establish a trust fund to pay for the cost of benefits and services, termination

values payable to planholders and other costs necessary to ensure the delivery of benefits or services to planholders as provided for in the contracts. All investments of preneed companies are limited to fixed income instruments, equities and real estate. The limits were put in place to ensure the liquidity of the trust fund and, thereby, guaranteeing the delivery of benefits provided under the contract and to obtain sufficient capital growth to meet the growing actuarial reserve liabilities of a preneed company. The failure of a preneed company to cover any deficiency in the trust fund may result in the imposition of a penalty, in addition to other remedies determined by the IC. These remedies include suspending or revoking the license of a preneed company or placing such company under conservatorship.

Lender fetes SEA Games medalist, BPI Unibanker Sy

HE 31st SEA Games silver medalist and BPI Unibanker Marie Alexis Sy was welcomed with warm cheers as she paid a courtesy visit recently to BPI President and CEO Jose Teodoro K. Limcaoco at the company’s head office in Makati City. “The full support of BPI and Ayala Corp. has been really overwhelming. That is why I make sure to find a balance between work and sport to show them that even though I am an athlete, I can still do well at work. I want to give back to the company and my workmates because they supported my bowling career,” Sy was quoted as saying in the statement the lender issued. “We want to make you all proud that we are Filipinos. What we have accom-

This undated photo courtesy of the Bank of the Philippine Islands shows BPI President and CEO Jose Teodoro K. Limcaoco and 31st Southeast Asian Games Silver Medalist Marie Alexis Sy. According to the lender, Sy received a warm welcome from the BPI family. Photo courtesy

plished is not just ours but it’s for the whole country,” she added. Limcaoco said BPI takes pride in Sy’s relentless effort and perseverance in effectively managing her responsibilities as an athlete and as a BPI Unibanker. “We are immensely proud of Alexis for bringing glory to our country and to BPI. She works a full-time banking job, helping large corporations grow, and at the same time, excels in a sport that requires discipline, strength and mental focus. Alexis earned our respect, and we will continue to support her,” Limcaoco said. Sy is currently a Cebu-based marketing associate under BPI’s Corporate Banking group.

OF Bank of the Philippine Islands

Diokno leads FSB-RCGA meeting US Fed sets experiment on climate-related financial risks of letting portfolio shrink

Need to scrutinize

IN its statement dated May 30, the SSS said it registered earnings of P28 billion in 2021 from its operations, with contributions and investment income exceeding benefit payments and operating expenses. In its 2021 unaudited financial statement, its cash inflows of P262 billion surpassed its cash outflows of P234 billion. The SSS said that in the last six years, it recorded cumulative earnings of P202 billion, even with a record-breaking P1.1 trillion benefit payments and P254 billion loan releases to its members and pensioners. The SSS said its fund life is estimated to last until 2054. The estimated fund life of the social security institutions of other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) countries such as Vietnam and Thailand are until 2027 and 2054, respectively, while the United States Social Security Administration fund is expected to last only until 2034. Regino was quoted in the statement as saying they are “always open to dialogues with policymakers, which can be a platform to help the pension fund’s stakeholders understand the current accounting standard it follows for the reporting of its financial performance.”

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin E. Diokno (middle, first row) is shown here during an online meeting of the Financial Stability Board Regional Consultative Group for Asia.

ANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin E. Diokno led the Financial Stability Board Regional Consultative Group for Asia (FSB-RCGA) in tackling climaterelated financial risks during a recent online FSB-RCGA meeting. FSB-RCGA members shared their progress on actions to address financial risks from climate change, provided updates on the FSB’s overall work program, and identified areas where RCG Asia members can contribute. The meeting also convened senior representatives of financial and supervisory authorities from key Asian economies to discuss financial market developments related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, including elevated and highly volatile commodity prices and the implications for financial stability. The FSB RCG Asia is cochaired by Diokno and Reserve Bank of India Deputy Governor Rajeshwar Rao. Some of the senior officials who attended the meeting include RBI Executive Director Saurav

Sinha, FSB Deputy Secretary-General Rupert Thorne, Bank Indonesia Deputy Governor Juda Agung, Bank Negara Malaysia Deputy Governor Jessica Chew Cheng Lian and Ministry of Finance (India) Senior Economic Adviser Shashank Saksena. More than 60 participants from 16 jurisdictions attended the meeting. Members of the RCG Asia include financial authorities from Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. The FSB has six Regional Consultative Groups, established under the FSB Charter, to bring together financial authorities from FSB member and non-member countries. These groups serve as platforms for the exchange of views on vulnerabilities affecting financial systems and on initiatives to promote financial stability. Typically, each Regional Consultative Group meets twice a year.

HE Federal Reserve is about to start shrinking its $8.9 trillion balance sheet, deploying a second tool along side higher interest rates to curb inflation, though officials don’t know just how effective it will be. After doubling in size through asset purchases in the first two years of the pandemic, the balance sheet will be reduced at a pace that’s almost twice as fast as after the last financial crisis. While the process officially commences on Wednesday, the first US Treasury securities won’t run off until $15 billion mature on June 15. Treasury securities held by the Fed are maturing in June, totaling $48.25 billion, leaving $18.25 billion over the $30 billion runoff cap to be reinvested. The Fed is capping monthly runoff at $47.5 billion—$30 billion for Treasuries and $17.5 billion for mortgage-backed securities—until September. Those thresholds will then double to a combined $95 billion. That compares to a peak of $50 billion a month when the Fed performed the exercise starting in 2017. Officials say the reduction will work in tandem with interest-rate increases to cool price pressures by tightening financial conditions. But it’s not clear how much impact the balance sheet will have. As Fed Governor Christopher Waller put it in a speech on Monday, estimates “using a variety of models and assumptions” are “highly uncertain.” The Fed deployed massive asset purchases during the 2008 financial crisis for the first time since World War II, expanding the balance sheet to about $4.5 trillion by the time it stopped buying at the end of 2014. It then waited three years before allowing it to begin shrinking at the end of 2017, reducing it to about $3.8 trillion by September 2019. Uncertainty over the course of the balance sheet was said by commentators to have contributed to the market turmoil that ultimately helped bring an end to the Fed’s last rate-hike campaign, which concluded in December 2018. Now, the Fed is also raising its benchmark rate at a faster pace in a bid to tighten financial conditions and tame inflation, which in recent months has reached the highest levels in four decades. Minutes of the Fed’s most recent policy meeting, on May 3-4, said that, “Regarding risks related to the balance-sheet reduction, several participants noted the potential for unanticipated effects on financial market conditions.” The next meeting is scheduled for June 14 and June 15. Bloomberg News

Envoys&Expats BusinessMirror

Thursday, June 2, 2022

PRRD receives credentials of four new ambassadors

RESIDENT Duterte received the credentials of four diplomats who expressed their intentions to improve bilateral ties between their respective countries and the Philippines. The president recently welcomed ambassadors from the Kingdom of Cambodia, Republic of Indonesia, Argentine Republic, and the Hellenic Republic in a ceremony at Malacañan Palace in Manila. Upon receiving the credentials of Cambodian Ambassador Phan Peuv, Duterte said the envoy will begin his tour of duty on a “promising note,” as the Philippines and Cambodia commemorate 65 years of diplomatic relations. He expressed hopes that high-level exchanges between their countries will continue and chart the future course of their growing engagement beyond his term. “Cambodia can count on the Philippines’s continued support and cooperation on its Asean Chairman-

ship this year. [We remain committed to strengthening] relations with all its partners in the region,” he said, as he also lauded the Southeast Asian nation on its successful chairmanship of the Asia-Europe Meeting in 2021. Peuv, for his part, sees the further strengthening of PhilippineCambodian relations, and looks forward to bringing their peoples and nations closer. With Ambassador Agus Widjojo, Duterte described Indonesia as among the country’s closest friends and regional partners: “Our shared commitment to peace in our region and the development of our peoples have made us natural allies.” He told Widjojo his utmost es-

teem for President Joko Widodo, and is pleased to have witnessed the strengthening of PhilippineIndonesian cooperation despite challenges: “[We look] forward to a more bilateral engagement with Indonesia, as we advance our shared interest in the promotion of security in our region, and work toward postpandemic recovery.” Widjojo vowed for continued cooperation in strengthening and expanding economic linkages through close coordination between the two countries with bilateral and regional mechanisms in various fields. During the presentation of Argentine envoy to the Philippines Ricardo Luis Bocalandro’s credentials, Duterte told him that his arrival comes at an “auspicious time” as their countries celebrate the 75th anniversary of their two-way ties. The Chief Executive anticipates increasing partnership within the framework of the Philippine-Argentina Agreement on Technical Cooperation: “We look forward to enhancing cooperation in the regional and multilateral fronts.” Duterte also expressed gratitude

to the government of Argentina for the excellent treatment of Filipinos working and residing there. Bocalandro promised to continue improving Philippine-Argentine relations, and the development that has existed between the two nations. When Duterte received the credentials of Greek ambassador Ioannis Pediotis, he cited ways their countries are set to mark the 72nd year of the establishment of their diplomatic ties this year: “Let us further deepen bilateral engagement for the mutual benefit of our two peoples.” Duterte also thanked Greece for the hospitality extended to Filipinos living there, and its continued support to Filipino seafarers. He likewise congratulated the Greek government for successfully hosting the first Defense Exhibition in Athens in July 2021, and looked forward to developing defense cooperation with the Mediterranean country. Pediotis hopes to promote a more advanced bilateral cooperation during her tour of duty. Azer Parrocha/PNA

Two diplomats honored for promoting, strengthening PHL-China cooperation By Roderick L. Abad @rodrik_28

WO of the country’s former diplomats to Beijing are among 10 laureates of the 2022 Awards for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (APPCU), which will be conferred at a formal rite on June 10. They are the late Ambassador Jose Santiago “Chito” Sta. Romana and Cebu philanthropist Ambassador Francisco Benedicto. APPCU pays special tribute to Filipinos who initiated to strengthen friendly ties and promote mutual understanding between the two neighboring countries using their respective advocacies and expertise in the fields and disciplines of mass media and public service, trade and commerce, arts, culture and the sciences.

BENEDICTO

STA. ROMANA

Since the launch of APPCU’s second year in January, members of the board and the committee have streamlined their search for individuals whose efforts aided the fostering and promotion of understanding, appreciation, and the strengthening of amity between the Philippines and China. Nominees passed a three-stage selection and judging process. Currently, there

are three categories for the award. First is the Hall of Fame, which cites the prestige and stature of the individual, as well as the immense effort of work done over time, as may be evidenced by the extent of reach, impact, and reception of the work/s by communities and societies. The Outstanding Contributions segment honors individuals of less-

er prominence, but has nonetheless made notable contributions in promoting and strengthening bilateral relations, friendship, cooperation, and understanding between the two nations. The Major Contributions category recognizes individuals whose works have increasing reach and impact on the lives of specific groups or communities of people at the grassroots level. Also, APPCU’s organizing committee this year will be extending a Special Award: the Gawad Sultan Paduka Pahala to the late Filipino envoy Sta. Romana. This year’s APPCU Hall of Fame awardees include Benedicto, who is the former ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to the People’s Republic of China, and former Philippine president Joseph Ejercito Estrada.

EU envoy engages Marcos Jr. on enhanced ties, rights, etc.

MBASSADOR Luc Véron on May 30 relayed the congratulatory messages of European Union leaders to president-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. through the letters of the presidents of the European Council and the European Commission.(Related stories on the BusinessMirror, May 30, 2022: Boosting diplomatic, trade ties tackled at courtesy visits on BBM by envoys from Singapore, UK, France and EU; Envoys from Singapore, UK, France, EU tackle diplomatic, trade ties in BBM courtesy visits.)

Véron likewise conveyed the wishes of all EU member-states ambassadors to meet Marcos at the earliest opportunity. The ambassador welcomed the importance the president-elect attached to the enhanced partnership between the Philippines and the EU, as the former presented the scope of the two states’ bilateral relationship ranging from trade and investments supported by the Generalized System of Preferences-Plus, or GSP+, to the extensive cooperation on a variety of areas covering justice system, socioeconomic development, sustainable energy, as well as governance and normalization in Mindanao and

VÉRON and Marcos Jr.

vaccination against the pandemic. He recalled the importance of accountability and rule of law, including the respect for human rights in the overall context of the mutual ties. Both sides agreed that addressing climate change and the green economic recovery from the pandemic must be at the forefront of the partnership. The EU side conveyed its readiness to stay engaged, at the government’s wishes, to fur-

ther consolidate the peace process in the Bangsamoro Region. The EU envoy concurred with Marcos Jr. on the need to respect international law in the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS, and its dispute-settlement mechanisms. Further, Véron highlighted the importance of multilateral institutions, respecting the UN charter

and the shared interest between the Philippines and the EU to continue defending peace and a rules-based multilateral order in Europe, Asia and the world. “I am grateful for the opportunity to meet President-elect Marcos ahead of his inauguration. We had an excellent conversation about the state of the world, and his ambitions for the Philippines in the coming years,” Véron said. “I am also heartened to hear that [he] is willing to work with the EU and its memberstates. I do not doubt that the EUPhilippines cooperation based on shared values and objectives will deepen under the Marcos administration.” The ambassador highlighted the EU’s importance attached to its Strategic Partnership with Asean. He recalled that Marcos would be invited to attend the 45th year of EU-Asean relations commemorative summit in Brussels on December 14. The EU’s High Representative Josep Borrell had previously congratulated the Philippines and its president-elect on May 12.

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THREE QUESTIONS

Sweden seeks to champion sustainable solutions, smart cities, and so much more

HEAD of Sweden’s National Day festivities on June 6 as well as the 75th year of its bilateral ties with the Philippines, ENVOYS&EXPATS recently caught up with Ambassador Annika Thunborg to better appreciate her country’s multifaceted work at the local front.

Envoys&Expats: What are the Swedish Embassy’s priority programs in the Philippines?

THUNBORG: Trade promotion is a priority area for our embassy. I am pleased to see policies and reforms put in place by the Philippine government over the last several years that have made it easier to do business here and, most important, that have moved more people out of poverty and into the middle class, thus contributing to economic growth and improved quality of life. We hope this reform policy will continue and be strengthened under the new government, which has made it attractive for Swedish companies such as IKEA and H&M to invest in this country, for manufacturing companies such as Swedish Match or OSM Group to expand or arrive here, respectively; and for client-services companies such as Transcom International to acquire and expand. Swedish companies offer direct employment to more than 17,000 Filipinos, with Transcom being the biggest of them, employing almost 10,000 in Metro Manila, Davao City, Bacolod City, and Iloilo City. Moving beyond the pandemic, it is important to prevent any further lockdowns, and to simplify unnecessary bureaucratic rules. To assist in this effort, Team Sweden, consisting of the embassy, Business Sweden and Swedish companies, have embarked on a booster-vaccination campaign, which ensured all their employees and families are fully inoculated and boosted. We are concerned to learn that only 15 percent of the Philippine population has taken a third shot despite the easy access to vaccines, many of them donated through the COVAX mechanism where Sweden is one of the largest per capita contributors. My country has donated 10 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines, mostly through COVAX. Over 1.5 million vaccine doses were donated to the Philippines. It has also provided a total of $260 million in vaccine support. In light of the global crises we face: the pandemic, the Russian aggression against Ukraine, and the climate crisis, it is important to build back better, greener and more inclusively, and to build resiliently and sustainably for future generations.

Which sectors in this country will Sweden focus on for its local work?

Sweden has much to offer in the areas of smart transportation and smart energy solutions with world leading companies such as Volvo, Scania, digitalization giant Ericsson and Swedish-Swiss ABB, as well as many small and medium enterprises. It has been particularly rewarding to work with the Department of Transportation in the development of the Edsa Busway, and we look forward to working with more cities interested in developing their public-transportation systems such as Davao City. We hope more medium-sized and small Swedish companies will find the local market attractive, especially those that can offer sustainable solutions in the area of renewable energy. The Philippines has notable potential in this area—let’s turn natural calamities into positive energy-generators for the welfare and benefit of its population! Swedish firms rank high on innovation and sustainability: two priority areas of the embassy. For us, sustainability includes environmental, social, and economic sides: the commitment to a clean and green environment through circular economy solutions, good labor conditions, gender equality, capacity-building opportunities for all employees, sound economic practices, and freedom from corruption. For us, this is “corporate social sustainability,” which is key to doing good business.

THUNBORG

Further, special initiatives are carried out by the Sweden Alumni Network, which leads projects like the Sea Mariners Program for coastal cleanup, the Fashion Revolution—a sustainable fashion exhibit, and programs for gender equality. Sweden is also a large core funder to international organizations and the United Nations. Over 25 UN agencies are active on the ground in the Philippines. We support both humanitarian and developmental programs, such as those connected with Typhoon “Odette” last December, and the peacebuilding process in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). We also work on specific projects, such as supporting the women, peace and security agenda in the BARMM with the United Nations Development Programme, as well as the empowerment of women in disadvantaged communities in remote areas there, together with the nongovernment organization (NGO) Islamic Relief.

Conversely, which areas in this country do Sweden feel hold much promise for improvement, and how can your country contribute substantially?

I have visited the BARMM, and I cannot cease to underline the importance of the continued peacebuilding process, as well as the international and national support for the work done by the BARMM transitional authority. The decommissioning process must continue and include all parties and the respect of human rights—including those indigenous people, which must be upheld. This is not only important for national security, but also for regional and global security. Sweden was the first country to adopt a feminist foreign policy in 2014. Gender equality and women’s rights are major priorities for our embassy. We focus in particular on women’s sexual health and reproductive rights: the right for women to decide if and when they would like to have children, free access to contraceptives, importance of sexual education in school, since this is a pressing issue for improving the health and well-being of the Philippine population, and for reducing poverty. Together with the European Union and the UN, the embassy is a keen observer of issues related to the respect of universal human rights, be it civil and political, social, economic or cultural that all nations have adopted, the enhancement of the rule of law, and the upholding of democracy—including press freedom, the freedom of expression and organization. We welcome the UN Joint Programme on Human Rights, which seeks to affirm the Philippines’s commitment to the primacy of human rights, the importance of a free democratic space for civil society, and the principle of international cooperation. We expect that this will continue to render important and immediate results, as well as concrete changes on the ground. In 2022 Sweden and the Philippines are commemorating 75 years of bilateral relations, and it is particularly important to highlight the strong mutual ties between our two countries, the unwavering support we have shown for the UN Charter, and for international law and humanitarian law over the years. We look forward to moving forward together, in cooperation with the private and public sectors, with NGOs, academia and civil society, together with the EU, the UN and the Asean.

Parentlife BusinessMirror

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Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

• Thursday, June 2, 2022

Let’s discover our child’s digital world: Part II Save the Children Philippines wins UN Sasakawa Award for Disaster Risk Reduction SAVE the Children Philippines has won the prestigious UN Sasakawa Award for its innovative programs on disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) that support Filipino children’s meaningful participation and protection from emergencies. The 2022 UN Sasakawa Award, which promotes inclusive and accessible DRR practices in line with the Sendai Framework, recognized Save the Children’s Comprehensive School Safety (CSS) Ecosystems and Quality Assurance System (QAS) programs that have been rolled out to more than 21,000 schools and 12,000 barangays, respectively, to ensure that the vital needs of children, schools and communities are addressed with responsive programs and accountability from the government. “Save the Children envisions a world where children are protected every day and in times of crisis. It is essential that we strengthen our work to improve risk reduction and response mechanisms to protect children’s rights to survival, education and protection, and build community resilience,” said Atty. Alberto Muyot, Save the Children Philippines CEO. Marlon Matuguina, program manager for Risk Reduction and Resilience in Education and Governance, received the award on behalf of the child-rights organization. The Philippines ranked ninth in the 2020 World Risk Index and 17th in the 2021 Global Climate Risk Index among countries most affected by extreme weather events, natural disasters, and numerous complex emergencies due to armed conflict. In response, Save the Children Philippines’s CSS Ecosystems program uses technology to help develop the Department of Education’s DRR information system by combining digital tools for data collection, analysis, planning and decisionmaking. Save the Children Philippines works with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and other government agencies for the QAS for Barangay DRRM Planning, and with the DepEd and Prudence Foundation for the CSS Ecosystems program. For over 40 years, Save the Children Philippines has been delivering life-saving programs for and with children. The child-rights organization remains committed to empower children through its DRRM programs and mechanisms, and in ensuring better informed, prepared and resilient communities.

A SNIPPET of my weekly “Alone Time with Marcus” where my son gets to share his digital world with me.

ERE is the continuation from last week on how, based on data from Kaspersky Safe Kids, we can flip or utilize our children’s digital world toward learning 21st-century learning skills. 3. DIY (DO IT YOURSELF): A popular category of videos which shows how to create a product with a step-by-step guide. It can be anything from a birdhouse to assembling a computer or garden furniture. These videos are very popular, as they can be used to start an interesting hobby, or discover likeminded people. Among the most frequent requests in the children’s category includes 5-Minute Craft, a channel with a large number of subscribers (76.3 million). 4. EDUCATIONAL: Modern social networks and platforms contain a wide variety of educational content. So it is worth getting to know the subjects your children are interested in, so that you can better relate to them. Among the most popular queries in the education category are Geometry Dash, a popular 2D computer game that consists of passing a level with many obstacles to rhythmic music. Apart from the built-in levels, players can create their own and upload them for other players to complete; and Kurzgesagt, a YouTube channel explaining science and the world we live in with fun and interesting graphics. 5. GAME-RELATED REQUESTS: n MrBeast—a popular gaming blogger with almost 93.6 million subscribers on YouTube, credited with pioneering a genre of YouTube videos that centers on expensive stunts. Now the content is mostly entertainment. n Minecraft—one of the most popular games among children because it’s very simple. The players are in a simple three-dimensional world and can build freely, creating complex structures from these cubes. There is a huge community of fans around this game, and many popular blogs on various platforms, such as YouTube or Twitch. For instance, DanTDM, Jelly, theAtlanticCraft. For Twitch, the most popular are TommyInnit, LyonWGFClub, RanbooLive. n Roblox—an online multiplayer platform that allows users to play games they have created as well as games from other users. The platform features user-created games and virtual worlds, ranging from traditional racing and role-playing games (RPGs) to simulations and obstacle courses. This game is also devoted to a large number of blogs and bloggers, such as Noquia2013, Ulove 11, and Sasseh. n Brawls Stars—a multiplayer game that aims to advance along the gaming trophy road, where users participate in battles with other players, as well as discovering and improving new playable characters with unique abilities and characteristics. Popular Twitch channels for this game include BrawlsStars, TheAlvaro845 and Trebor.

n Memes—“Animation memes” are the most popular meme requests among kids. They are typically short animations of a character dancing or sometimes singing along to music with the intent to be spread or repeated by other animators with their own characters. An example of a most searched meme is Beluga cat. Lots of people will have seen this meme at least once. My son Marcus has always been a hobbyist. At three, he started to like Disney Cars. I remember him having all the sizes you can imagine of Lightning McQueen. When he started his digital world around the age of six, his favorite screen-time character or his latest favorite game would be the topic of our once-aweek alone time. At six, when he liked Yokai, he would explain the differences of each discs, as well as the stories that played out onscreen. There was an evening when he told me this super long story of Naruto. When he was into NBA Y2K, he explained to me the rationale on how he was trading players. I remember asking him why he did not get the top players to fill up his team. He explained to me that he wanted to bet on certain players because they still cost low so he earned more when they got better. At 10, he played with Fortnite

and I saw him develop his leadership skills whenever he would lead team games. He also explained the “skins” he chose. Having related my son's screen-time hobbies above, I have had regular reminders and cautions with him on the detrimental effects of too much video games. He is an avid basketball player, so I would often joke with him and say, “If you just spend the hours you spend on your video games on basketball....” He would defend and declare that playing video games is a good thing. Thus, it was a funny incident when he shared to me a speech of his chosen topic that he had to write and share in class last schoolyear: “Hello, and today I will be talking about how video games can help you in school. “My parents, like many others, often blame things on ideas they don’t understand. For me, it was always about video games. Whenever I tell my mom that I’m tired, she (would say), ‘Oh it’s the video games.’ If I said that my head hurt, ‘Oh, it’s the PS4.’ And if I say that I get a bad grade, can you guess what my mom would say? Yes, ‘It’s because of the video games.’ I am here to prove them wrong, by talking about how video games can actually help you in school....” To be continued.... n

How important is the Covid-19 booster shot for 5-to-11-year-olds? 5 questions answered By Debbie-Ann Shirley University of Virginia COVID-19 case numbers are rising again in the US— including among children. In mid-May 2022, the Food and Drug Administration authorized a booster shot of the Covid-19 vaccine for US children ages five to 11, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention followed by recommending a booster shot for this age group. Naturally, many parents are wondering about the importance and safety of a booster shot for their school-age children. Debbie-Ann Shirley, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the University of Virginia, answers some common questions about Covid-19 and booster shots in kids that she hears in her practice and explains the research behind why booster shots are recommended for children ages five to 11. 1. How important is a booster shot for children? Covid-19 is generally milder in children than adults, but severe disease can occur. As of late May 2022, more than 15,000 children ages five to 11 have been hospitalized with Covid-19 and 180 children have died. During the height of the recent winter surge of the highly transmissible Omicron variant, 87 percent of the children in the five-to-11 age

group who became hospitalized with Covid-19 were unvaccinated. In addition, the rare but serious condition that can follow in the weeks after Covid-19 infection, known as Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children, or MIS-C, most commonly occurs among children ages five to 11. Over 3,800 cases of MIS-C have been reported in that five-to-11 age group, and 93 percent of the children who developed this complication were unvaccinated. 2. How well is immunity holding up from the initial Covid-19 shots? When administered to children five to 11 years old, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine generated levels of antibody response similar to that in 16-to-25-year-olds in a clinical trial, which was the basis for the FDA’s initial authorization of the shots in October 2021. But studies after the shots were authorized found that vaccine effectiveness rapidly waned in the fiveto-11 age group during the Omicron surge. Despite that, the shots continued to be protective against severe disease and hospitalization. Vaccination has also been shown to be highly protective against Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. 3. Does a third dose make a difference in children? In a clinical trial, researchers tested

the Pfizer vaccine in children five to 11 using a 10-microgram booster dose, which is the same dose children received for the primary series and is onethird the dose used for adolescents and adults. When tested among 401 children, no new safety concerns arose, and in the smaller subset of children in which the immune response was tested, the third shot significantly increased antibody responses, including against the Omicron variant. Hence, a third dose seems beneficial for boosting immunity in this age group, similar to older age groups. The booster dose can be given five months or more after the second shot. But as of late May 2022, fewer than one-third of children ages five to 11 had received two shots, meaning that only about 8 million school-age children were eligible to start receiving the booster. This could prove an important layer of protection for them and help limit disruptions on schooling and summer activities, particularly as mask mandates have gone by the wayside. Children with weakened immune systems who were at first authorized to receive three initial doses of Covid-19 vaccine may now also receive a booster shot—or a fourth dose—as soon as three months after their third dose. 4. Is the Covid-19 vaccine safe for kids? As of

late May 2022, more than 18.5 million doses of the Covid-19 vaccine had been administered to children in the five-to-11 age group. Most Covid-19 vaccine side effects—such as pain at the injection site—have been mild and short-lived in children. Fatigue, headache and muscle aches are other common side effects. Reports suggest that most cases of myocarditis that follow vaccination typically improve quickly with medicine and rest. Rates of myocarditis have been lower in children ages five to 11 than in teens. In any age group, myocarditis is more likely to occur after infection than vaccination. 5. What about the kids under 5? For parents of kids ages six months to five years, Covid-19 vaccines are also finally within sight. On May 23, 2022, Pfizer released new data for this age group, stating that three shots generated strong antibody responses, were well tolerated with no new safety concerns and, based on preliminary data, the series was 80 percent effective at preventing Covid-19 infection. In late April 2022, Moderna released similar data showing that two doses of its vaccine stimulated good antibody responses and were tolerated well by kids under age six. The FDA is set to meet in June 2022 to discuss new low-dose formulations of the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines for this group. THE CONVERSATION

B6 Thursday, June 2, 2022

Get 5G with these deals from Motorola!

Zadara expands presence in the Philippines and SE Asian market

ADARA, the recognized leader in edge cloud services, continues to expand its presence in different parts of the world with its fullymanaged cloud services - compute, networking, storage and more, and designed for service providers and the modern enterprise. Dani Naor, Senior Vice President for Business Development at Zadara, recently visited the Philippines as part of the series of meetings with brand partners in the Southeast Asia region. Zadara operates across the globe maintaining clouds in hundreds of data centers with public and private cloud partners being managed by an expert team that provides excellent services and support and is the official cloud supplier of Alfa Romeo F1 Team ORLEN in the Formula One world championship. With a headquarter in Irvine, California, Zadara also have strategic locations in Cirencester (UK), Tokyo, Tel Aviv, Yokneam (Israel), and Bangalore. Since 2011, Zadara’s Cloud Platform (ZCP) has simplified operational complexity through automated endto-end infrastructure provisioning of compute, storage and network resources through solutions available on-premises and through cloud and colocation providers. Zadara’s turnkey hardware/ software, combined with its pay-onlyfor-what-you-use model, help companies shift to a more agile business process without disrupting the features and functionality of existing systems being handled by IT teams of organizations. Naor said, “The Philippines is a very important market. Sandz Solutions, our local partner in the country, has been with us for years. We have a lot of combined knowledge and innovations to meet customer’s need for cloud service in this fast-changing world. Zadara is the technology supplier while Sandz Solutions is the hybrid solutions service provider to customers.” Sandz Solutions, a trusted advisor in data center optimization, offers Managed Services that enable IT groups

OUR 5G dreams are no longer hard to reach when Motorola is designed to meet what you need. Stay upto-date with all the latest happenings and keep connected with family and friends from all around the world with your very own 5G device. Get blazing-fast speed with Motorola’s moto g 5G plus and moto g50 5G now at discounted prices! Currently the most affordable 5G-capable devices in the market, the moto g 5G plus is now priced at PHP 9,995, while the moto g50 5G is priced at only PHP 7,995 until June 30. Paired with their powerful processors and upgraded features, these phones are sure to offer the most bang for your buck.

moto g 5G plus

ENRIQUE Velasco, Managing Director of Sandz Solutions Philippines Inc., and Dani Naor SVP Business Development of Zadara to support the changing and increasing and requires easy monitoring with 24/7 demands of the business. The company customer service and support. provides enterprise solutions that help zCompute is an elastic cloud compute transform clients’ data centers to provide that scales to meet enterprise demands the necessary flexibility and agility to that is secured, dependable, and available support their business requirements. It anywhere, anytime. It delivers access currently provides services to SMEs and to cloud compute capacity and scale on large corporations in various industries demand where clients only pay only for the like financial institutions, manufacturing, resources used. retail, food and beverage and a number of zStorage is an award-winning enterprise government institutions. storage service designed to support any Sandz Solutions Philippines Managing data type (block, file, object), any protocol Director Enrique Velasco explained, “While (NFS, CIFS, FC, iSCSI, iSER, S3, Swift and we are a primary provider of Zadara since more), in any location (on-premises, across 2016, we are also looking at an ecosystem clouds or in a hybrid environment) and of partners. You cannot do everything. The dependable even with the most demanding opportunity is there. To be able to scale workloads and complex data protection this, we need to work with other partners. requirements. I think in the end, we will work hybrid via Federated Edge (FE) is a program 100% channels.” designed to help Managed Hosting As a strong advocate of software Service Providers (MHSPs) win on a global defined data centers, disaster recovery and scale, with fully managed, distributed business continuity with over 35 years of cloud architecture. By leveraging a global experience in the IT industry, Velasco has network of MHSPs, the FE unlocks new use led the transition of the local team from cases and revenue models made possible being an IT reseller to a premier managed for its MHSP members without requiring services provider with proven expertise investments in hardware, technology or in infrastructure optimization and IT human capital. business resiliency. Visit www.zadara.com or send an Zadara offers zero-risk on-demand email at marketing@sandz.com for more cloud services, hybrid-ready, centralized information.

MAKING unbelievably fast 5G more accessible, the moto g 5G plus allows users to be in the moment, at every moment. Experience only the best in entertainment (lag-free!) with its ultra-wide 6.7" CinemaVision Full HD+ display and two-day strong battery perfect for binge-watching or gaming with friends. The moto g 5G plus also features an ultra-wide 16 MP Quad Pixel selfie camera system on top of its 48 MP sensor for brighter, breathtaking photos. Its Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 765 processor comes 5G-optimized for a fast and smooth experience inside and out. Get more bandwidth with lower latency and lag time so you’ll never miss a thing! Save PHP 5,000 off the mighty moto g 5G plus when you purchase today until June 30, 2022.

moto g50 5G

This next-generation phone is not only fast but also features specs ideal for on-the-go users and gamers.

The moto g50 5G features a 6.5” HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate for seamless play. With its high-definition graphics and smooth response, leveling up your gameplay and entertainment experience are sure to come without a hitch. Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 700 2.2 GHz octa-core processor, the moto g50 5G is four times faster than the average smartphone. It also comes with a 48 MP camera with Quad Pixel technology that ensures crystal clear and high-definition shots day or night. With 5G speeds, the sky’s the limit with the moto g50 5G. Get this all-rounder phone at only PHP 7,995, down from PHP 10,495 until June 30, 2022. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to get your own 5G device, this is it! Don’t miss out on your chance to get a hold of these awesome devices availab le at authorized mobile resellers nationwide. Limited stocks are also available on the official Motorola PH stores on Lazada and Shopee so check out now before they run out! Follow Motorola Philippines on Facebook for more info.

Hit the road for a long weekend ride with Supra GTR 150

ITH the summer season winding down, it’s best to make the most out of dry roads and clear skies by going out on relaxing and exciting long rides. Skip your regular routes for something new with your perfect road partner, the Honda sports riding underbone Supra GTR150, one of Honda’s premier models that's perfect for daily use. It’s also a hit with riders who are looking into satisfying their inner wanderlust with its tried-andtested fuel efficiency, lightweight handling, speed, and safety features. Here are the top three underrated destinations that will allow you to experience the joy of mobility in style: Mount Samat in Pilar, Bataan (distance from Manila: 135 km). Craving for a bit of everything where you can go on a long ride, taste trip-worthy food, and experience local culture and national history, Mount Samat in Bataan is your best bet. You’ll pass by Bulacan and Pampanga heading to Bataan, where you can enjoy

a chock-full of famous delicacies. When you reach Bataan’s Roman Highway, it won’t take long before a giant cross perched atop a mountain reveals itself. That is the iconic, 555-meter Memorial Cross at the Mount Samat Shrine, overlooking the rolling hills where Filipino and American soldiers made their last stand during World War II. From there, you can make a side trip to nearby Dunsulan Falls, the many beaches at Bagac town, or several scenic restaurants in Subic Bay. Daranak and Batlag Falls in Tanay, Rizal (Distance from Manila: 57 km). Daranak, which means “to flow,” offers a wide catch basin that’s perfect to dip in if you want to cool off from all the heat driving. Just upstream is the more serene Batlag Falls, nestled in the middle of a dense forest surrounded by wooden tree houses. Imagine that. To reach these picturesque views, you can snake through the Marilaque (Marikina-Rizal-Laguna-Quezon) mountain road. But conquering sharp turns and

going off-road en route to Daranak and Batlag Falls is not something for every motorcycle. Luckily, these pose no challenge for the Supra GTR150. It comes with a built-in bank angle sensor that automatically turns off the engine when your bank angle exceeds 51° on either side. It's superior stability is also something worth noting thanks to its big front telescopic suspension (31mm diameter), giving you control and comfort all the time. Paete, Laguna (Distance from Manila: 111 km). Paete is known as the Carving Capital of the Philippines, and its name is derived from “paet,” the Tagalog term for a chisel. The historic lakeside town paints a picture of the country’s proud heritage surviving into modern times, with rows of old bahay na bato lining up the streets along with new establishments. Other stops here include the Paete Church for a spiritual reflection and Kape Kesada to refuel on snacks before you head home. Supra GTR150’s reliable and efficient performance makes for a smooth travel companion in traversing highways and navigating traffic going to Bataan. It features a 6-Speed DOHC 4-Valve Liquid-Cooled Engine for maximum performance, great handling, and better fuel efficiency of 42 km/liter, ensuring a rewarding yet budget-friendly trip. For more information, visit www.hondaph.com. Follow Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook and Instagram (@hondaph_mc), or contact (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and 0917-884-6632.

THE SKY LINE AT SM CITY CLARK. Spectacular fireworks light up the sky to celebrate the opening of the Sky Line, a 9,000 square meter elevated connector at the north edge of SM City Clark. Inspired by New York’s iconic Highline, it will give shoppers a brand new state-of-the-art urban experience as a vibrant location for performances, retail, restaurants, park-like oases, and cutting-edge art.

Grab holds road safety ambassador boot camp

RAB Philippines — with the support of the MMDA, HPG, LTO, and road safety experts — rolls out the pilot driver training and education program. It's the first Ka-Grab Safety Ambassador Boot Camp for 150 Grab drivers and deliverypartners in the newest Grab Driver Training Center in Marikina City. In celebration with this year’s Road Safety Month themed “Drive Safe: Kalsadang Ligtas, Happy Ang Lahat” Campaign, the Boot Camp offers training and educational program for drivers and delivery-partners with the support of road safety experts and government agencies. Based on data from the Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System (MMARAS), in 2020 alone—cars and motorcycles accounted for the majority of the 65,032 traffic-related incidents recorded in Metro Manila. Reinforcing Grab Philippines’ ongoing commitment to road safety, drivers and delivery-partners will get exclusive access to specialized road safety training and education programs, such as: 1. Road Safety Webinars via Ka-Grab Kamustahan: Weekly for drivers and delivery-partners covering vital road safety topics such as Road Safety and Defensive Driving: Experts will share important pointers on road safety and defensive driving to equip drivers with the necessary knowledge and prevent and avoid road accidents; Transportation Rules and Regulation: Essential traffic and transportation rules and regulations will be discussed to instill discipline among drivers and deliverypartners; and Proper Behavior and Attitude

on the Road: This session aims to help drivers be on their best behavior and practice road courtesy and proper driving demeanor at all times; 2. Weekly quiz games through the Grab Academy: Ka-Grab Henyo: All active drivers and delivery partners, including Grab users can participate in a weekly quiz game on road safety. Exclusive prizes such as laptops, tablets, gas and grocery vouchers will be given to lucky winners of the Ka-Grab Henyo quiz games, which will be available in-app and on social media. 3. Theoretical and Practical Training Sessions through the Ka-Grab Safety Ambassador Bootcamp: Open for all Grab driver- and delivery-partners, the yearlong Training Boot Camp program will provide participants with road safety training, as well as exclusive perks and benefits for a year. Training sessions include Tactical Skills Training for deliverypartners, LTO Practicum Tests, and theoretical training sessions simulating different traffic conditions. Through this Training Boot Camp, Grab drivers and delivery-partners will undergo a 1-day comprehensive training with Road Safety Experts and become certified as a Road Safety Ambassador. “We are empowering our drivers and delivery-partners to be road safety stewards within their communities while continuing to strengthen our ongoing advocacy for a safer and and more efficient use of our thoroughfares,” says Grab Philippines Driver Operations Head Wayne Jacinto. Know more about Grab’s Road Safety Programs, visit https://www.grab.com/ph/ blog/driver/drive-safe-kalsadang-ligtas/.

Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz

Health&Fitness BusinessMirror

Rainy season increases risk of getting skin diseases–experts By Rory Visco Contributor

he state weather agency Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) already declared the official start of the rainy season two weeks ago. Many heaved a sigh of relief, knowing that the rains bring a big respite to the sweltering heat. However, while taking care of the skin during the dry season is difficult, skin care during the wet (rainy) season also brings with it a plethora of health problems, like skin allergies. Bacteria and fungi flourish with the onset of high humidity and too much perspiration that may result in itchiness, redness and other skin maladies. For Dr. Maria Rowena AguilarJoven from the Dr. Chio Aesthetic and Laser Center in Quezon City and Beauty on Call in Manila, rainy days expose the skin to increased humidity, dampness and high levels of moisture in the atmosphere. “W hen rainfall happens more than usual, the transmission of disease-causing microorganisms affect the body’s depleting immune system even more, making skin problems more prevalent.”

The common ones She said the rainy season can be unforgiving to the skin and becomes the favorite breeding ground for bacteria, v iruses, parasites and fungus. Among the most common skin problems people experience during the wet season, she said, include eczema, which can be triggered by high

humidity levels and changes in temperature, including contact with other skin irritants. “The skin loses its ability to retain moisture, thus causing skin dryness, scaling and/or blistering, redness and itchiness. In severe cases, the skin may develop secondary skin infection when bacteria set in and may cause open wound and pain,” Dr. Aguilar-Joven explained. Athlete’s Foot (tinea pedis) causes moist, red and itchy feet, especially between the toes, with cracked or discolored toenails, burning sensation and bad odor. This fungal infection, she pointed out, can also be contracted when wading through puddles of water in a flooded area. Though highly contagious, it is not a serious condition. Ringworm infection happens during a moist climate. It is a very itchy, circular reddish patch that spreads rapidly and easily through contact to other body parts like the face, scalp, neck, underarms, buttocks, groin, hands and feet and caused by fungus. Don’t think that prickly heat, or “bungang-araw” in local parlance, happens only during the dry season. One can get it during rainy months when humidity is high. It starts with a small blister

that develops into deep inflamed lumps and itchy, prickly feeling. “ This is uncomfortable but is usually harmless and gets resolved after a few days,” Dr. Aguilar-Joven narrated. Finally, something that the youth abhor are the acne breakouts (acne vulgaris), which involves the oil glands at the base of the hair follicle that produces sebum. With warm and humid weather, it encourages the skin to produce more oil. “When the skin cells, sebum and hair clump together and get blocked, the plug gets infected with bacteria, hence the worsening of acne,” she said.

Skin problems going skin deep Dr. Aguilar-Joven also said that over-population or living in crowded areas can also contribute to skin problems during the wet season, like scabies. This extremely contagious water-related disease, she said, caused by parasitic mites, brings discomfort with intense itching and skin rashes. If left untreated, it may persist for several months. It spreads through skinto-skin contact with an infected individual especially in densely populated areas through shared clothing, bedding, etc. However, just like any skin problems, she said most are preventable through simple topical and/or oral medications. However, some may persist from several days to months or worse, incur a secondary bacterial infection. If left untreated, it may require “debridement” or thorough cleaning and removing thickened, infected and dead tissues for help good healing outcome. Dr. Aguilar-Joven advised to keep the skin clean by using mild soaps and moisturizer with natural ingredients and less chemical

compounds, exfoliate gently and regularly at least once a week, take vitamin supplements like Vitamin-E and food rich in Omega-3 to nourish and to keep skin healthy from within. Dusting with powder and/or with zinc oxide on often moist body parts help keep irritation and infection away. “Avoid scratching the skin to avoid worsening and spreading the disease, but most importantly, don’t self-medicate. It’s always best to consult a skin doctor.” For Armie Tabug, a skin and beauty advisor at Naturale Hub at West Insula along West Avenue, Quezon City, acne breakouts, folliculitis and post-acne marks are the most common problems treated at the clinic, where they recommend Photo Dynamic Treatment for these problems. Tabug also echoed Dr. AguilarJoven in saying that cream and oral medication work but not with all skin problems. A visit to a doctor at the clinic for skin assessment and treatment procedures are the best options. Likewise, Tabug said it is important to care for the skin regardless of season by continuing with the skin-care routine, to keep skin always clean and well hydrated, use sunblock (yes, even during the wet season) and moisturizers and best of all, consult a doctor or acknowledged skin expert for any skin problem. Many people grapple with skin allergies during the monsoons. However, with the right measures like washing hands and feet frequently, wearing clean clothes, staying away from a polluted and dusty environment and consulting a dermatologist in case of severe difficulties, one can easily avoid these skin allergies and enjoy the rainy season to its fullest.

Delhi hospital marks 100 liver transplants on Pinoy children

hospital based in New Delhi, India has performed a landmark 100 liver transplants on children from the Philippines. Aged between four months and 15 years, the Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals performed this life saving surgery on children who suffered from various diseases that resulted in liver failure and required liver transplantation. The Indraprastha Apollo Hospital opened its doors in 1983 with a mission to bring health care of international standards within the reach of very individual. It is one of the largest integrated health-care group in the region with 9,850 beds across 64 hospitals across nine countries. Despite the challenges posed by Covid in the last two years, Apollo made sure that the children and their families were provided with end-toend assistance in terms of aligning travel permissions while also ascertaining patient safety by arranging

special charter flights with a medical team on board to manage any emergencies. “Apollo Hospitals lead the way in delivering cross-border care for children. Our approach is aligned with Apollo’s overarching objective of providing prompt delivery of health-care services, notwithstanding myriad constraints. This becomes even more important when it comes to caring for children. We believe there is no greater joy than seeing the smiles of children who have been saved by our timely medical intervention,” said Mr. P Shivakumar, Managing Director of Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, in a press release.

Five years

For his part, Dr. Anupam Sibal, Group Medical Director and Senior Pediatric, Gastroenterologist of the Apollo Hospitals Group, stated that Apollo Hospitals has been receiving children with liver failure from Phil-

ippines for the past five years. “Fortunately, we have been able to help many families from different parts of the Philippines. We would like to thank the families for their trust as we mark the landmark of 100 liver transplants in babies and chi ldren f rom Phi lippines,” Dr. Sibal said. Dr. Sibal added: “Despite Covid restrictions, we have transplanted 53 children in the last two years. The youngest child to be operated on was four months. Significantly, babies weighing barely 3.5kgs have also had liver transplants at Apollo Hospitals.” “Our initiative has been facilitated by the immense support from the Embassies which helped in easing travel formalities for patients,” Dr. Sibal added.

Liver transplant program

The Apollo Liver Transplant Program, the first successful program in

India which was established in 1998, has now performed more than 3,950 liver transplants including 458 in children from 20 countries. Senior Liver Transplant Surgeon at the Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Dr. Neerav Goyal said, “In liver transplant, surgery is performed when patients have a high risk of dying from their disease in the ensuing weeks to months.” Dr. Goyal said that since Covid-19 is not going away anytime soon, many of these patients were unlikely to survive the pandemic without liver transplant. “We are happy that we can help them in easing their pain and provide a new lease of life,” Dr. Goyal said. Dr. Goyal noted that out of the 100 patients, mothers were the donors of 65 of the patients, fathers were the donors of 30 patients while the remaining five received the liver of their blood relatives. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

Therma Luzon, UPLB to use research to improve nutrition in host communities By Roderick L. Abad Contributor

O help improve the health situation w ithin the communities where it operates, Therma Luzon Inc. (TLI) has signed an agreement with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) for the implementation of a community baseline program in its host areas in Pagbilao, Quezon province. The research initiative will be conducted by UPLB-Barangay Integrated Development Approach for Nutrition Improvement (BIDANI) and UPLB Foundations Inc. (UPLBFI) in Barangays Ilayang Polo and Ibabang Polo.

“This baseline assessment will allow us to implement more sustainable community programs based on the actual needs of our host communities,” said Therma South Inc. Reputation and Stakeholder Management Supervisor JK Huyatid. According to him, this partnership is their proactive communitybased strategy in social development. “We will be capacitating the barangay local government unit [LGU] in collecting, encoding, and analyzing community data, with the goal of establishing a barangay management information system that can be input to both their government programs and TLI’s CSR programs,” he noted.

Improved nutrition

UPLB-BIDANI Project Leader Dr. Marites G. Yee said the team will use the systematic and community-driven approach research to determine the needs of the community members and enhance their nutrition status. “In attaining nutrition improvement, we would need to take into consideration various factors, such as agriculture and food security, health, education, family services, livelihood, gender and development, infrastructure, sports and youth development, peace and order, environmental management, and disaster risk reduction and management [DRRM], ” she explained. Experts from the university will

be joining the project team, said UPLBFI Executive Director Dr. Enrico P. Supangco. “For us, it is a very good opportunity because one of our objectives is to have partners outside of the university, with private institutions like yours, so that we can also be able to provide your industry with the expertise coming from UPLB,” he said. “I am very happy for this project, I know that the people working here are experts in their own field,” Supangco added. TLI is AboitizPower’s 700 megawatt coal-fired power plant in Pagbilao, Quezon Province. TeaM Energy Corp. operates the facility under a Build-Operate-Transfer scheme.

Thursday, June 2, 2022 B7

Govt told not to let down guard vs Covid variants By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

group of physicians have urged the government not to lower its guard against the new variants of Covid-19. “Covid and influenza are here to stay. We must manage respiratory infections as we return to normal life,” said Dr. Ralph Villalobos, a Pulmonary Medicine Specialist of the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital, during the recent convention of the Philippine College of Chest Physicians. Villalobos also warned the public against being complacent amid relaxed mobility restrictions and increased economic activity in the country, He also stressed that the government should pursue an aggressive vaccination program to protect the population against new variants and future surges. The Department of Health reported that it had detected its first case of Omicron BA.2.12, a Covid subvariant responsible for the rise in the number of cases in the United States.

Treatment options

At the convention aptly titled “Innovating with the Speed of Need,” Dr. Rontgene Solante, Chairman of the Adult Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine Department and Fellowship Program at the San Lazaro Hospital, identified the various treatment options for influenza. Among the antiviral medications recommended for influenza treatment are oseltamivir, baloxavir, zanamivir and peramivir, he said. Moreover, Solante said they have no significant drug-todrug interactions with Covid-19 drugs, especially with tocilizumab, remdesivir, or any drugs like steroids. “It is important to control influenza, especially at the viral phase,” Solante said. “When you miss that opportunity of treating the viral phase, treatment may not be effective anymore.” “When you have patients with influenza, over that of Covid-19, the risk of superimposed infections is higher in influenza than in Covid-19,” Solante added.

Monoclonal antibodies

Meanwhile, monoclonal antibodies available in the Philippines like Casirivimab and Imdevimab, a drug granted emergency use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration, can be given anytime once the patient has the symptoms within seven days

from its onset. The drug has been proven to prevent the development of severe infections among patients by as much as 50 to 60 percent, Dr. Solante said. “Early interventions can keep patients out of the hospital or can keep high risk patients from developing severe Covid-19,” he added.

Co-circulation of Covid, flu

Dr. Jubert Benedicto, Vice-Chair for Patient Service, Department of Medicine, University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital, said the World Health Organization has recommended that countries prepare for the co-circulation of influenza and Covid-19. “Clinicians in the frontline need to decide if they are dealing primarily with an influenza infection,” he said. “Surveillance studies are needed since both diseases can present in a similar manner. Only testing can distinguish between the Covid and influenza virus infections and identify the viruses’ coinfection.” Moreover, additional testing is especially important for patients with influenza as they have a high risk of acquiring bacterial superinfections, he said. He emphasized the importance of access in terms of making the proper diagnostic tests available to the public. “We need to mobilize everything,” he said. “The whole gamut of the health system.” Earlier, Dr. Anna Ong-Lim, Associate Professor and pediatrician at the University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital and Current President of the Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines, said in an interview with an online news portal that people should think twice before taking antibiotics for flu-like symptoms, because recurrent exposure and sub-optimal treatment can contribute to drug resistance. “This can lead to other health threats and be a contributor to the next pandemic,” she said. She believes that in the event of another Covid outbreak, the public can count on the healthcare professionals to carry the country through any crisis. “Life doesn’t stop because these diseases are around,” she said. “We will shift from a pandemic emergency response to a mindset that thinks about Covid-19 as something that will stay and learning to live with it to the best extent possible,” she said.

Anti-smoking campaign a success in Davao City, says VP-elect Duterte By Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

s the world marks “World No Tobacco Day” on May 31 every year, Davao City mayor and Vice President-elect Sarah Duterte underscored how the city’s anti-smoking campaign has been instrumental in “promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.” In her message during a seminar organized by HealthJustice Philippines titled “Smoke-free Davao City: Promoting a Healthful Environment for Davaoeños” held at Waterfront Insular Hotel, Davao City on May 27, Duterte said the campaign has fulfilled the city’s vision of becoming a “globally” livable city. “Since the passage of the Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance of Davao City in 2002, and the New Comprehensive Anti-Smoking Ordinance of Davao City in 2012, we have seen extensive changes in the Dabawenyo way of life, strengthened by the people’s care for their health, the community’s discipline and compliance and the city government’s commitment to ensure that mechanisms are in place for the implementation of the law,” Duterte said. For his part, Davao City Vice Mayor and mayor-elect Sebastian “Baste” Duterte assured HealthJustice Philippines, that Davao will continue to be its partner in “enriching the quality of human life in Davao City and reducing the health and socioeconomic impact of tobacco-related diseases in the country.”

Smoke-free initiative

Recognized as one of the most successful and pioneering smoke–free ini-

tiatives in the Asean, Davao City is a leading example of a city that has effectively implemented a smoke–free legislation. It started 10 years ago, when President Duterte was still the mayor of the city. The campaign also protected its residents and tourists against the danger brought about by exposure to secondhand smoke. According to the World Health Organization, the celebration of “World No Tobacco Day” aims to raise awareness of the negative health, social, economic and environmental impacts of tobacco production and use. This year’s theme, “Tobacco: Threat to our environment,” aims to highlight the environmental impact of the entire tobacco cycle, from cultivation, production and distribution to the toxic waste it generates. Meanwhile, Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan said that “smoke-free nation is best achieved once there is strong implementation of effective tobacco control.” Dr. Galvez Tan also highlighted that the success of Davao in enforcing its smoke-free ordinance can be attributed to strong political will and allotting resources for its smoke-free campaign. He encouraged “other local government units to also earmark a portion of their budget for smoke-free programs to promote public health and ultimately achieve the vision of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to have a smoke-free Philippines.” In 2017, President Duterte issued an executive order directing the implementation of stringent smoke-free policies all over the Philippines.

Cua targets sweep of age group tennis tilt’s Cotabato swing

HEA CUA hopes to cash in on her rich vein of form as she goes for a third straight twotitle romp in the Palawan PawnshopPalawan Express Pera Padala Pigcawayan national age-group tennis tournament which unwrapped on Wednesday in Cotabato. The 14-year-old rising star from Kidapawan dominated her category in the Kabacan stop and at home and added the 16-under title in both legs to remain the marked player in the five-day tournament capping the Cotabato swing of the country’s longest-talent search. But while Cua is tipped to reassert her mastery over the 14-under field at the Pigcawayan courts, Cua faces a stiff challenge in the 16-under division with the likes of Saschena Francisco, Jilian Manangking, Janah Mamac, Gwyneth Dino and Jeanne Rayray going all out to foil her sweep bid in the five-day competition put up by Palawan Pawnshop president and CEO Bobby Castro. Manangking and Francisco also brace for a showdown in the premier 18-under side while Divine Collado from Libungan, Cotabato, and Carl Eduarte, also from Kidapawan, likewise shoot for third straight wins in the 12-under class of the eight-division tournament presented by Dunlop and backed by ProtekTODO, PalawanPay, Unified Tennis Philippines and Universal Tennis Rating. For details, contact event organizer Bobby Mangunay at 09154046464. Action in the boys’ side is also expected to be tight with second seed RJ Saldivar out to snap a string of failed bids in the centerpiece 18-under division led by Vince Serna with Ben Flores and Aiki Abasolo also in the fold.

ARIS—Rafael Nadal insists he can’t know for sure whether any match at Roland Garros might be his very last at a place he loves, a place he is loved. For now, if he keeps winning and keeps performing the way he did during his monumental quarterfinal victory over longtime rival Novak Djokovic that began in May and ended in June, Nadal will have more chances to play. With a mix of brilliant shotmaking and his trademark resilience, Nadal got past the top-seeded defending French Open champion Djokovic, 6-2, 4-6, 6-2, 7-6 (4), to move a step closer to his 14th championship at the clay-court Grand Slam tournament and what would be a 22nd major trophy overall, adding to records that he already owns. “One of those magic nights for me,” Nadal said. For anyone lucky enough to be there, too—provided they were able to stay awake—or even anyone watching from afar. The match began a little past 9 p.m. Tuesday and concluded more than four hours later, after 1 a.m. Wednesday. “TV decides,” Djokovic said about the late start. “That’s the world we are living in.” The bracket said this was a quarterfinal, yes, but it felt like a final, from the quality of play to the quality of effort, from the anticipation that preceded it to the atmosphere that enveloped it. The only missing ingredient: There was no trophy handed to the winner. Nadal turns 36 on Friday, when he will face third-seeded Alexander Zverev in the semifinals. When the subject of Nadal’s future was brought up during his on-court interview, he smiled. “See you, by the way, in two days,” Nadal said. “That’s the only thing that I can say.” It’ll be difficult for any match the rest of the way to live up to this one. Nary a game, a point, a stroke or, indeed, a step came with a hint of

ONE MAGICAL NIGHT FOR NADAL IN PARIS

Sports BusinessMirror

| Thursday, June 2, 2022 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

RAFAEL NADAL tops Novak Djokovic in quarterfinal thriller at the French Open. AP

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte is flanked by athletes led by Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz and Senator Bong Go, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez and Philippine Olympic Committee President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino. PHOTO COURTESY OF PSC

PRRD FULFILLS PROMISE TO PHL ATHLETES ANEW

By Josef Ramos

T’S night of another promise fulfilled as President Rodrigo Duterte rewarded extra cash bonuses to Filipino athletes who clinched medals at the Vietnam 31st Southeast Asian Games. And what a way to be true to his word once more as President Duterte received the athletes in the Palace exactly a month before he turns the government over to president-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong”Marcos Jr. “I’m so proud of you. You did a good job,” President Duterte told the medalist athletes who were accompanied in the eventful night by Philippine Olympic Committee President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez at the Rizal Hall. “Please know that I really recognize all the tedious preparations you have made to perform your best in this regional sports competition,” he said. “Just like a father to every Filipino, I am very proud of you.” Under the Athletes and Coaches

Incentives Act, the 52 gold, 70 silver and 105 bronze medalists in Vietnam received from the President incentives of P300,000, P150,000 and P60,000, respectively. But as what he has made into a tradition during his six-year administration, President Duterte added another P250,000, P150,000 and P100,000 for the podium finishers in the SEA Games. “I’m very happy that we collected a lot of medals. We should be proud of our athletes regardless if they won a medal or not,” he said. “It’s not just about winning but giving the country [positive] image.” The medalist athletes—227 of them—were grateful to the President. “We’ll surely miss this when his term expires. President Rodrigo Duterte has totally appreciated the hard work and sacrifices of the Filipino athletes,” boxer Ian Clark Bautista told BusinessMirror after receiving a total of P550,000 from his gold medal. Tolentino thanked President Duterte for his act of generosity even when he’s about to finish his term.

“He [Duterte] is always there for our athletes even in the last few days of his term,” Tolentino said. “We’re thankful that we have a leader like him who support the athletes very much.” Ramirez, too, was grateful to the Chief Executive. “President Duterte was very pleased by their performance in the Vietnam SEA Games and doubling their incen-

tives is his way of recognizing and showing his appreciation for their efforts,” Ramirez said. Also present during the ceremony were Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Senate Committee on Sports Chairman Senator Bong Go, PSC Commissioners Ramon Fernandez, Celia Kiram, Charles Maxey and Arnold Agustin and Rep. Faustino Dy III, Chairman of the House Committee on Youth and Sports.

Must-watch NBA Finals

clash between the NBA’s original royalty, the Boston Celtics and its current ruling elite, the Golden State Warriors. The Celtics have ruled NBA hoopdom from the late 50s through practically all of the 60s (except 1967), two years in the 70s and three in the 80s, with the last crown added only in 2008. Golden State is aiming for its seventh crown in the modern era and hopes to break the tie with the Chicago Bulls that will land it in solo third for most number of NBA titles won. The Celtics have been chasing after Banner 18 for 14 years already. And the Warriors? They’ve been absent from the NBA fans for two straight years and many NBA fans have not felt quite right about it. So here we are. The hungry Celtics and the reclaiming Warriors are the last two teams standing. Why should we care? Here’s why.

AS we are fond of saying in the native language, “Isang tulog na lang, NBA Finals na!” Just one more peaceful shuteye tonight, and tomorrow, 9 a.m., adrenaline overflows as Game 1 of the National Basketball Association’s Diamond Year Finals comes alive on our screens, on whatever platform that may be. This is a most interesting NBA Finals to watch, truly apropos for the global league’s milestone year. Imagine: a

1. Awesome Storylines—Look at how these angles give this series a whole lotta drama: n Finals Experience (GSW) vs. Championship Hunger (BOS) n The league’s top two defensive teams using their vaunted weapons on each other, which is better? n Golden State’s Beautiful Offense vs. Boston’s Pace and Space Offense

insouciance. Both men gave their all. Nothing came easily. Nadal’s 3-0 lead in the second set did him no good; Djokovic ended up taking it and would say later, “I thought, ‘OK, I’m back in the game.’” But Djokovic’s 3-0 lead in the fourth did him no good, even though he served for it at 5-3, even standing one point from forcing a fifth twice. Nadal saved those set points and broke there, then ran away with the closing tiebreaker, seizing a 6-1 edge and and never losing focus after his first three match points went awry. “I lost to a better player today,” said Djokovic, who had won 22 sets in a row until the 49-minute opener against Nadal. “Had my chances. Didn’t use them. That’s it.” This showdown was their 59th, more than any other two men have Dustin Johnson, whose last victory was the Saudi International in 2021, is No. 13 in the world, the highest-ranked player in the field. AP

played each other in the Open era. Nadal narrowed Djokovic’s series lead to 30-29 while improving to 8-2 against his rival at Roland Garros. Nadal is now 110-3 for his career at the place. Two of those losses came against Djokovic, including in last year’s semifinals. This time, Nadal made sure Djokovic remains behind him in the Slam count with 20. Nadal broke their three-way tie with Roger Federer at that number by capturing the Australian Open in January, when Djokovic was not able to play because he had not been vaccinated against COVID-19. Before Nadal advanced to his 15th semifinal in Paris, Zverev reached his second in a row by holding off 19-year-old rising star Carlos Alcaraz, 6-4, 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (7). “Not really getting easier from

here,” Zverev said after putting an end to Alcaraz’s 14-match winning streak. “I told him at the net, ‘You’re going to win this tournament a lot of times, not just once,’” said Zverev, the runner-up at the US Open in 2020 and the gold medalist at the Tokyo Olympics last summer. “I hope I can win it before he starts...beating us all.” In women’s action Tuesday, 18-year-old American Coco Gauff and 28-year-old Martina Trevisan of Italy reached their first Grand Slam semifinals. The 18th-seeded Gauff beat 2017 US Open champion and 2018 French Open runner-up Sloane Stephens, 7-5, 6-2, while the 59thranked Trevisan eliminated US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez, 6-2, 6-7 (3), 6-3. The nightcap was saved for two players who know each other so well. The tendencies and tactics. The mannerisms and moods. So it should come as no surprise they engaged in points so involved, so lengthy—57 of at least nine strokes, with one that went 25—that before some were concluded, folks in the stands would let out a gasp or an “Aaaah!” or “Awwww!”, drawing rebuking hisses of “Shhhhh!” in response. Chair umpire Damien Dumusois might have set a record, were such records kept, for most times saying “S’il vous plait,” to plead with spectators to settle down and allow play to continue. Nadal heard far more support in the form of yells of “Ra-fa!” or “Vamos!” or “Te quiero!” Only once Djokovic began to assert himself in the second set was his nickname “No-le!” heard with any frequency. As time passed and the air became colder—below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 Celsius)—Nadal and Djokovic embodied the words in clay-colored capital letters in French and English along the facing of the lower level of the arena, attributed to Roland Garros, the World War I fighter pilot for whom the facility is named: “Victory belongs to the most tenacious.” AP

Johnson defies PGA Tour, joins Saudi Arabia-funded series

UBLIN, Ohio—Three months after declaring he was “fully committed” to the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) Tour, Dustin Johnson is among 42 players in the field for next week’s LIV Golf Invitational, which offers a $25 million in prize money that’s backed by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund. Phil Mickelson was missing from the list that was released Tuesday night. It was his damaging remarks in February that led to Johnson and other top players to say they would stay on the PGA Tour. The LIV Golf Invitational is scheduled for June 9 to 11 at Centurion Club outside of London. The PGA Tour and European tour denied releases for players, meaning they risk punishment—possibly a loss of tour membership—by competing. “Dustin has been contemplating the opportunity off and on for the past couple of years. Ultimately, he decided it was in his and his family’s n Steph Curry and Klay Thompson vs. Jason Tatum and Jaylen Brown; which pair will rule?

2. Divergent Pathways—The two teams got to where they are now using contrasting scripts and following different routes. Golden State had an easier time staying on top of the pack, but their season had suspense and drama as well. Klay Thompson was out of the game for two and a half years (941 days) and returned only on January 9. Steph Curry suffered a torn ligament towards the end of the regular season and caused a lot of worry. But he returned refreshed, rejuvenated, and was on a tear during the playoffs. As for Boston, no one even believed they would make the playoffs the way their early season went. But they flipped the script in January and became a totally different team, zooming up the charts until they finished No. 2 in the East. They went through a crucible in the playoffs, and against all odds knocked off the Nets, the Bucks and the Heat in succession. “We took the toughest route and it worked out,” said Jayson Tatum. 3. Homegrown Teams—Maybe we didn’t notice. But a Celtics-Warriors Finals is a testament to homegrown NBA

best interest to pursue it,” David Winkler, Johnson’s manager at Hambric Sports, told The Associated Press in a text message. “Dustin has never had any issue with the PGA Tour and is grateful for all it has given him but in the end felt this was too compelling to pass up.” That was a turnaround from his comments in February when Johnson issued a statement that he was committed to the PGA Tour and that he was “grateful for the opportunity to play on the best tour in the world and for all it has provided me and my family.” Johnson, whose last victory was the Saudi International in 2021, is No. 13 in the world, the highestranked player in the field. He had held the No. 1 spot in the world longer than any player since Tiger Woods. Greg Norman, in his second try to create an alternative circuit to the PGA Tour, had made a strong push for Johnson. Still to be determined is how much Johnson is being paid to join the Saudi venture. AP

teams. The Golden State dynasty was built from the ground up with talent acquired through the draft. The same is true for Boston. “We will have ten guys on the court playing in an NBA Finals for the team that drafted them. That’s why we should all go out and really make this the biggest battle for an NBA trophy by tuning in to every game. Regardless of who wins, NBA basketball scores a vital point,“ Inquirer sports ed Francis Ochoa said on Facebook. What a refreshing contrast to super teams and big-bucks acquisitions. 4. Fear Factors—We should also consider these intervening variables. Homecourt Advantage. Will it really work on the Boston Road Warriors? Rest. Will it favor Golden State? Injuries. Who’s hurting more? Who’ll stay invincible? Finals Experience. Is it superior to the thirst and adventure of youth? 5. Coincidences—Following are just my uncanny personal observations as a Fighting Maroons fan and a hopeful Celtics fan. Both UP and the Celtics were No. 2s who went up against No. 1’s and won. Both waited long for their moment of glory: 36 and 14 years. Both teams were/are mentored by rookie coaches who went to the Finals on their first years. Now let’s wait for the exciting part.