BusinessMirror March 06, 2020

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n Friday, March 6, 2020 Vol. 15 No. 148

P25.00 nationwide | 6 sections 56 pages |

‘February inflation eases on slower consumption’

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By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Thursday that inflation eased in February, but a local economist said this is not necessarily favorable for the country in view of the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

“I’ve checked the latest inflation data and there were declines all over. [This] suggests a fall in demand.

[This may mean that] consumption slowed in the first quarter.”

—Ang

The PSA reported that the inflation rate eased to 2.6 percent in February, from 3.8 percent last year and the 2.9 percent recorded in January.

See “Inflation,” A2

FACTORY OUTPUT SHRINKS THE country’s manufacturing output started the year with a contraction of 1.6 percent, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

And, with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) seriously impacting the travel a nd tour ism sectors, t he

With COVID-19 impact still unfolding, BSP may revisit monetary stance

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HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will have to rethink its monetary-policy direction in their upcoming monetary-policy setting meeting two weeks from now, as the ongoing development on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is likely to ease inflationary pressures but pull down growth prospects in the coming months.

In his statement following the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) announcement that inflation eased to 2.6 percent in February, BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno said the virus outbreak is one of the key risks they are looking at in the economy right now.

“The risks to the inflation outlook are expected to be weighted to the upside for 2020, but are seen as tilted toward the downside in 2021. Adjustments in utility rates, petitions for transport fare hikes, and the impact of African swine fever [ASF] on meat prices are the main upside risks to inflation,” Diokno said. “The ongoing spread of

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n

COVID-19 could have an adverse impact on domestic economic activity and financial market sentiment in the coming months.”

“The BSP will consider all the latest developments in the Monetary Board ’s monetary-policy meet ing on 19 Ma rc h 2020.

The BSP will ensure that the monetary stance remains consistent with its primary objective of maintaining price stability that is conducive to balanced and sustainable growth of the economy,” he added.

More economists believe that the recent global issues, including COVID-19, will open the door for a monetary-policy easing as early as the BSP’s March meeting this year.

ING Bank Manila senior economist Nicholas Mapa told the BusinessMirror that although Diokno’s comments regarding the efficiency of fiscal spending indicate that he will wait for May before cutting rates, he expects the governor to “remain open to easing in March.”

See “BSP,” A2

National Economic and Development Authority said this could only worsen in the months ahead. The recent Taal Volcano eruption will also have a temporary impact on the manufacturing sector, Neda said.

Story on page A13

PHL heads WTO fund review panel

A

CHIEF’S CHOPPER DOWN The badly damaged and burnt Bell 429 helicopter sits on a dusty road in Brgy. San Antonio in San Pedro, Laguna, on Thursday, after it crashed shortly after takeoff, bearing eight people, including National Police chief Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa and three other generals. Story on page A3. NONIE REYES

FTER heading the trade policy review panel in 2019, the Philippines is set to lead this year the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) budget committee tasked to review the funding and financial statement of the multilateral trading body.

The WTO General Council on Wednesday reached a consensus in electing the next chairmen of the 13 bodies comprising the organization.

Philippine Ambassador to the WTO Manuel A.J. Teehankee was voted to take charge of the Committee on Budget, Finance and Administration (CBFA), which was formerly headed

by Dagfinn Sorli of Norway.

As CBFA chairman, Teehankee will lead the review of the WTO budget and financial statement presented by the director general, as well as in making recommendations about these matters to the General Council.

He will steer the discussion on any financial and administrative issues referred to the CBFA by the General Council or the director general.

See “WTO,” A2

US 50.5820 n JAPAN 0.4705 n UK 65.1142 n HK 6.5083 n CHINA 7.3032 n SINGAPORE 36.5345 n AUSTRALIA 33.5156 n EU 56.3382 n SAUDI ARABIA 13.4806

Source: BSP (5 March 2020)

News

BusinessMirror

A2 Friday, March 6, 2020

PHL exports seen least hit by virus in Asean–Unctad

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By Elijah Felice E. Rosales

@alyasjah

HE Philippines could lose as much as $300 million worth of exports, mostly in communication equipment, due to the coronavirus outbreak, but it is the least to take damage from the crisis among Southeast Asian nations, according to a United Nations report.

The country’s exports are estimated to fall by roughly $300.4 million due to the spread of the coronavirus based on an analysis of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (Unctad).

The Philippines will likely endure significant damage in the production and shipment of communication equipment, office machinery and electrical machinery.

Ex ports of communication equipment could go down by $115 million, the Unctad projected, on disruption in the global value chains caused by factory closures in China, where the respiratory illness was first detected.

Further, shipments of office machinery are seen to drop by $76.8 million, while those of electrical machinery are anticipated to slide by $41.8 million. The Unctad also projected Philippine exports of auto parts and varis machinery to decrease by $22 million and $16.9 million, respectively.

Inflation. . .

Continued from A1

However, Ateneo Center for Economic Research and Development (Acerd) Director Alvin P. Ang noted that the latest inflation data showed that components exhibited slower price increases, indicating a weakening of demand.

“I’ve checked the latest inflation data and there were declines all over. [This] suggests a fall in demand. [ This may mean that] consumption slowed in the first quarter,” said Ang. Consumption spending is crucial for a country like the Philippines as 70 percent of its GDP relies on household and government consumption.

One “positive thing” about the latest inflation data, said Ang, is that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has more room to cut interest rates.

WTO. . .

Continued from A1

The committee, which is open to all WTO members, convenes between seven and 10 times annually.

Last year the WTO’s budget was at around $206.13 million—$198.2 million is allocated for the WTO Secretariat, while $7.94 million is designated for the Appellate Body.

The WTO sources most of the income for its yearly budget from contributions by its members, according to its web site. These contributions are computed according to a formula based on their share of international trade.

However, the multilateral trading body last year faced arguably its toughest financial challenge yet, as the United States—its largest contributor at 12 percent—tried to block the tabled $200-million budget for 2020 on frustrations against the Appellate Body.

The Appellate Body, the supreme court of world trade, is operating with just one seating judge of the seven available seats. The chamber can only hear cases with a quorum of three judges, and the US has been preventing the nomination of any new member.

In taking the helm of the CBFA, Teehankee

Export losses in precision instruments could decline, too, by $16.6 million, and damage is to be expected as well in chemicals, metals, leather goods, rubber and plastics, wood products and furniture, textiles and apparel, and paper products and publishing, although they will be in the single-digit level, the Unctad estimated.

This impact is relatively modest for Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez, as it can be offset by the seemingly inevitable relocation of some manufacturers from China.

Alternative site

HE bared that the government’s strategy is to now market the Philippines as a relocation site for these fleeing firms.

“Companies are quick to cope,” Lopez told the BusinessMirror.

“One important direction that companies would be focusing on would be the diversification of their sup-

The Monetary Board will hold its policy meeting on March 19. The BSP had earlier given assurances that developments, such as the inflation print, will be taken into consideration when it makes its decision.

“This is good for monetary policy but bad generally,” Ang said. “Even commodities that were expected to show an increase like meat and health expenditures did not reflect [the expected increase].”

Optimism SOCIOECONOMIC Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said commodity prices could still increase in the coming months, due to the continuous spread of African swine fever (ASF), thinning supply of Thai rice, and the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

Pernia said the possible delay in the arrival of imported products due to production and logistics disruptions could also cause commodity prices to rise faster.

will relinquish his post as head of the Trade Policy Review Body, now to be taken over by Harald Aspelund of Iceland.

New Zealand’s David Walker was selected as the new chairman of the General Council, while his former seat in the Dispute Settlement Body will be moved to Dacio Castillo of Honduras. On the other hand, Sweden’s Mikael Anzen was elected chairman of the Council for Trade in Goods, while Singapore’s Tan Hung Seng was voted head of the Council for Trade in Services.

Joining the roster of WTO leaders are: Xolelwa Mlumbi-Peter of South Africa (Council for the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights, shortly known as TRIPS); Mohammad Qurban Haqjo of Afghanistan (Committee on Trade and Development); and Refiloe Litjobo of Lesotho (Committee on Balance-of-Payments Restrictions).

Chad Blackman of Barbados will head the Committee on Trade and Environment, while Martins Kreitus of Latvia will take charge of the Committee on Regional Trade Agreements.

Meanwhile, the Working Groups on Trade, Debt and Finance and on Trade and Transfer of Technology were designated to Rashidi Said of Malaysia and Stephen Fevrier of Santa Lucia.

Elijah Felice E. Rosales

ply chain. As this is happening, opportunities are also emerging, as local and foreign companies now look at [the] Philippines as an important viable alternative location.”

When pitted against its Southeast Asian rivals, the Philippines is the least to accumulate export losses from the coronavirus outbreak. As such, Lopez argued this is the perfect opportunity for the country to benefit from the situation and lure the affected investors.

“With minimal impact on our manufacturing, we intensify efforts to attract companies to now consider the country as another source of their inputs,” Lopez said.

Asean damage

IN Southeast Asia, Vietnam is expected to take the most damage in terms of exports, by $2.29 billion.

Based on Unctad estimates, tripledigit reductions in value are anticipated in Vietnam’s shipment of communication equipment ($880.7 million), leather products ($368.2 million) and various machinery ($324.6 million).

Singapore comes second with a projected $2.16 billion in export losses, as it is seen to suffer a decline of $1.02 billion in communication equipment—the highest globally.

Moreover, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia follow lead with the Unctad reporting $1.07 billion, $733 million and $311.7 worth of export damage for these countries, respectively. Among all economies outside of China, the European

“We also need to closely monitor other developments particularly those that may cause disruptions in the global supply chains due to the spread of COVID-19,” Pernia said.

“We call on our colleagues in the government, both in the national and local levels, to stand ready in effectively managing the demand and supply of key agricultural commodities which will possibly be affected by these risks,” he added.

The latest PSA data brings year-todate inflation to 2.8 percent, within the government’s target range of 2 to 4 percent for the year.

PSA Assistant Secretary Lourdines C. Dela Cruz noted the slower price increases in Transportation at 1.2 percent, from 13 percent in January; and alcoholic beverages and tobacco, 23.4 percent from 25.3 percent.

The top contributor in February remained the heavily weighted food and nonalcoholic beverages. It posted an annual increase of 2.1 percent

BSP. . .

Continued from A1

“The world’s most strategic user of oil, China, has dropped out of the market with factories shuttered as workers remain at home, forcing crude oil prices to drop, dragging global inflation expectations with it. Curtailed air travel and limited movement of people and services across the globe also means less money is changing hands which translates to lower incomes on a global scale, which should depress demand further,” Mapa said. “Meanwhile, financial markets have also been ‘infected’ with risk aversion dominating trading, save for bouts of rallying whenever governments or central banks pledge some form of stimulus.”

Dampened growth

IN turn, the economist said COVID will likely have a downward pressure on commodity prices in the country but will also have a negative effect on local and global growth prospects.

In their February meeting, the BSP already cut the interest rate on the BSP’s overnight reverse repurchase (RRP) facility by 25 basis

$300.4M The estimated loss in the country’s exports due to the spread of the coronavirus, per Unctad’s analysis.

The Philippines will likely endure damage in the production and shipment of communication equipment, office machinery and electrical machinery

Union is likely to take the worst hit from the disruption in global value chain caused by the coronavirus outbreak at $15.59 billion.

Even if the business impact of the infection is mostly felt in China, the Unctad concluded that it will also affect firms outside of the country’s borders, as many multinationals buy their supplies and raw materials from Chinese manufacturers.

“European, American and East Asian regional value chains will be disrupted,” the Unctad said. “ The estimated global effects are subject to change depending on the containment of the virus and/or changes in the sources of supply.”

The coronavirus disease, now known as COVID-19, was first detected in Wuhan in the province of Hubei in China last year. There are 95,425 confirmed cases of the coronavirus worldwide, of which 3,286 resulted in deaths, as of Thursday afternoon. Most of the infections are located in mainland China, while there are now thousands of cases in South Korea, Italy and Iran.

and accounted for 33.2 percent of the inflation print.

Other top contributors to overall inflation were housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels and restaurant and miscellaneous goods and services.

Consumer price increases in the National Capital Region (NCR) slowed to 2 percent in February, from last year’s 3.8 percent. The figure is also lower than the 2.7 percnt recorded in January.

Data showed inflation in Areas Outside of NCR (AONCR) eased to 2.8 percent last month, from last year’s 3.8 percent and 3 percent in January.

The Bicol region recorded the highest inflation rate in the Philippines at 3.6 percent, but the figure is lower than the 3.9 percent posted in January.

Consumer price increases were slowest in Eastern Visayas at 1.9 percent. The figure is also lower than the 2 percent seen in January.

points to 3.75 percent amid geopolitical tensions, as well as the then emerging threat of the virus.

Economists at JP Morgan also revised their view of the BSP rate cut pattern for 2020, adding another 25-basis-point cut at the March 19 monetary policy meeting. This brings their forecast interest rate to 3.25 percent by the end of 2020.

The Philippines is not alone, though.

Similarly, JP Morgan revised the monetary policy direction of five other Asian economies to a more accommodative stance as well, reacting both to the virus outbreak as well as the Federal Open Market Committee’s rate cut direction.

For China, JP Morgan added another 10 basis points in its forecast rate cut in March. The bank also added another 25-basis-point cut to their projection in Indonesia and South Korea while seeing earlier-than-expected rate cuts in India and Thailand.

“The monetary easing complements the fiscal accommodation that we anticipate will amount to 0.4 percentage points of gross domestic product [GDP] in Emerging Markets [EM] Asia that comes on the heels of downward growth revisions in China and EM Asia due to COVID-19,” JP Morgan said.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

COVID-19 hinders voter listing abroad T

HE Commission on Elections and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) are still confident they will still hit their target of registering 2 million new voters abroad despite the effects of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on their ongoing overseas voter registration.

Comelec Commissioner Rowena V. Guanzon admitted they already have observed a significant decline in the number of registrant in areas abroad with confirmed COVID-19 cases like in South Korea.

“In [South] Korea, there are no one [people] going out of their homes,” Guanzon said.

As of March 4, the World Health

AMLC. . .

Continued from A12

defeat the purpose of the law.”

Addressing officials, he added, “You will meet one month and 10 days after your intelligence transpires. Huling-huli na. Nagastos na yung pera [You’re too late. The money has been spent]. I am shocked,” he said.

For his part, Racela said AMLC already found out that several foreign currencies were brought into the country as early as March 2019.

“We started profiling and asking information from counterparts abroad to ask for derogatory information on these individuals. We can’t probe money laundering without establishing the crimes first,” he said.

Cost vs benefit

ALSO at the hearing, Sen. Joel Villanueva said the P8 billion in collections from POGOs by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.

(Pagcor) pales in comparison to the P50 billion in uncollected taxes of the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the P14 billion in suspicious transactions monitored by AMLC. “To say that the economic benefits, which [are] minimal and negligible at best, are justification enough to keep POGOs in Philippine shores is flimsy and myopic,”Villanueva said, adding that Pagcor, the state gaming regulator,“cannot simply shift the blame to other agencies for their shortcomings, particularly tax collection.”

He reminded Pagcor that “it is their responsibility to ensure the entities they regulate comply with prevailing rules and

Jobless. . .

Continued from A12

activities, 16,000.

“The decline reflects the impact of the trade war between the United States and China on manufacturing,” said Ang. PSA data also showed that there was an increase of 775,000 employed Filipinos in the ranks of unpaid workers in family-operated farms or businesses nationwide.

Data showed there were a total of 2.66 million Filipinos who worked in family businesses for free in January, 41.22 percent higher than the 1.88 million recorded last year.

Most of these workers are in Agriculture (1.44 million) and Services (1.11 million). In Industry, only 107,000 workers are in familyowned businesses.

The latest figures are higher by 405,000 than the 1.3 million in Agriculture; by 345,000 than the 764,000 in Services; and by 25,000 than the 82,000 in Industry recorded in 2019.

“It simply tells us that there are not enough jobs for them. Hence, they have chosen to work without pay in family-operated enterprises.

This reflects the lack of quality paying jobs for many,” said University of Asia and the Pacific School of Economics Dean Cid Terosa.

Economist Calixto V. Chikiamco said given the latest developments, the outlook on the country’s employment situation will not be rosy. Chikiamco said apprehension about the spread of the 2019-novel coronavirus (COVID-19) could disrupt the local labor market.

However, he said it is diffi-

Organization (WHO) has recorded 93,090 confirmed COVID-19 cases in 77 countries. These include those with large numbers of Filipinos like Japan, Singapore and Malaysia.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Brigido Dulay, however, said they are banking on the long period of the ongoing voter registration, which will run from December 16, 2019, until September 30, 2021, to meet their registration goals.

“If they cannot register now, they still have more time in the coming months’ until next year there will be overseas voter registration,” Dulay said.

Comelec currently has 1.3 million registered voters. Samuel P. Medenilla

regulations of our country. They are the regulator of POGOs. They should be responsible for the actions of the companies and individuals they regulate.”

He added: “Just look at the number of estimated illegal POGO firms here. Having about 200 illegal POGOs—even more than the 61 Pagcor-licensed POGOs—is a clear indication that state gaming regulator cannot handle the regulation of POGOs. We’re dumbfounded that POGO firms continue to sprout despite the prevailing ban implemented by Pagcor.”

Villanueva admitted that “we are aghast by the fact that the P7 billion in net financial flows in the banking system covers a period of three years, an important detail withheld by the AMLC when it testified before to the Senate Committee on Labor last February 11, 2020. Is this deliberate to help cover up the real negative impact of POGOs in our country? We remind the AMLC and our other resource persons that all their statements have been made under oath.”

The senator pointed out what he described as undeniable: “allowing the continued operations of POGOs are already causing issues on peace and order situation in the country, as well as our economic stability, among others, recalling that last year, authorities arrested 6,678 illegal foreign workers at legitimate POGO firms.

“Our Committee also found that immigration officers allowed the entry of 733 international fugitives in 2019. $447 million in cold cash were allowed to be brought into the country,” he said noting that at least P1 billion have been collected from the so-called pastillas scam by unscrupulous immigration agents. cult to make conclusions about government employment data, as Filipinos who worked for only one hour in the past week are considered “employed.”

Preparations

NONETHELESS, Ang said there is a need for the government to prepare for possible job losses, but this could force Manila to borrow more.

He also said government must ramp up its infrastructure program, dubbed “Build, Build, Build,” and agriculture production to create more job opportunities for Filipinos.

Ang said government preparations should include the crafting of social protection measures, including lay off packages that can tide over local workers and overseas Filipino workers who could lose their jobs.

COVID-19 has spread to 60 countries and the US-China trade war affects multiple countries through global value chains.

PSA data showed that in January 2020, majority or 63.3 percent of the unemployed were male.

Of the total unemployed, the age group 15 to 24 years comprised 42.4 percent, while the age group 25 to 34, accounted for 32.1 percent.

By educational attainment, 26.9 percent of the unemployed were college graduates, 10 percent were college undergraduates, and 28.7 percent have completed junior high school. PSA said graduates of junior high school include those who were covered by the old curriculum.

Among the regions, Ilocos region (8.8 percent), Calabarzon (6.7 percent), National Capital Region (6.2 percent) and Central Luzon (6 percent), have unemployment rates higher than the national figure.

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Military validating reports of influx of Chinese ‘spies’

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HE military is in the process of validating reports about the reported presence in the country of some 2,000 to 3,000 members of China’s military, which it said is a serious concern.

“We are in the process of validating the report of Sen. [Panfilo] Lacson, that being a matter of serious concern,” said Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. “I have my staff for intelligence [to] confirm said reports in coordination with other relevant agencies of government,”he added.

Earlier, Lacson, chairman of the Senate’s Committee on National Defense and Security, said he got hold of the information that up to 3,000 members of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) are in the country on “immersion mission” and other for still unknown purposes.

He said the information, which he wanted to revalidated by the government, came from his source, whom he did not identify.

Sen. Richard J. Gordon, for his part, branded the members of the PLA, who may be in the country, as the “fifth column,” or intelligence personnel.

The reported presence of Chinese intelligence members followed the recovery of two PLA identification cards from two Chinese who shot and killed a compatriot at a restaurant in Bel-Air, Makati, last week.

The incident came as the Senate is investigating Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and the influx of Chinese online gaming workers into the country.

Gordon raised the possibility that POGOs are being used for spying activities as he also disclosed the smuggling into the country since December of at least $370 million in Chinese “dirty money.”

The smuggling, carried out with the help of corrupt policemen, soldiers and airport policemen, who acted as “escorts” of couriers, was confirmed by Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero.

Guerrero, in his report to the Department of Finance, said the money could be used for terrorism and other criminal activities. Rene Acosta

The Nation BusinessMirror

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Friday, March 6, 2020 A3

PNP chief, 7 others injured in Laguna chopper crash

By Rene Acosta @reneacostaBM & Recto L. Mercene @rectomercene

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ATIONAL police chief Gen. Archie Gamboa and seven other members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), including three generals, were injured on Thursday after a helicopter that they were riding crashed shortly after takeoff in Laguna.

An investigating body named Special Investigation Task Group Bell 429, headed by the PNP Deputy Chief for Operations Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar—with the heads of the various units of the PNP as members, was formed to investigate the incident.

The PNP grounded all its choppers, which, according to acting PNP spokesman and Director for Police Community relations Maj. Gen. Benigno Durana Jr., composed of a fleet of Airbus H-125, Bell 429 and Robinson R-44 multi-role police helicopters.

Durana was also designated as the spokesman of the special investigation task group.

The helicopter bearing Gamboa and his party had just taken off when it went down at the Laperal Compound, Barangay San Antonio, in San Pedro, Laguna, at around 8:10 a.m., official reports from the Police Regional Office 4A (PRO 4A) and Camp Crame said.

“The PNP Bell 429 helicopter with registry number RP-3086, piloted by PLTC [Police Lt. Col.] Zalatar and PLTC Macawili crash-landed upon takeoff…after an accidental contact with overhead power lines,” Durana said in a news statement.

Aside from Gamboa, Zalatar and Macawili, also on board the helicopter during the crash were PNP Director for Intelligence Maj. Gen. Mariel Magaway; PNP Director for Comptrollership Major Gen.

Jose Maria Ramos; PNP spokesman Brig.

Gen. Bernard Banac; and the chopper’s lone crewman, a certain Senior Master Sgt. Estona and Gamboa’s aide de camp identified as Capt. Gayamara.

Magaway and Ramos, who sustained head injuries, were reportedly pulled out from the helicopter unconscious; while the others, who suffered slighter injuries, including Gamboa, were conscious after the “freak accident.”

The eight were initially taken to two hospitals in Laguna before six of them, including Gamboa, were transferred to the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City. Magaway, on the other hand, was transferred to the Asia Hospital in Muntinlupa City.

“Those in critical condition are being attended to, but the rest are safe and secured,” Durana said of Gamboa and his party, noting that most of the crash victims—especially the PNP chief and Banac only sustained abrasions all over their body.

He said Gamboa’s hand was also swollen.

“His safety and his security is paramount as far as the PNP is concerned,” the acting spokesman said, adding it was a “miracle” that all of them survived the crash.

Durana said Magaway was also in a stable condition.

“The PNP is praying for the speedy and full recovery of the chief PNP and our colleagues,” Durana said as he called on Filipinos to also offer prayers for their swift recovery.

“We also request netizens to refrain from posting images of the injured passengers out of respect for their privacy, and discourage them from making speculations and passing on unverified information,” he added.

According to Durana, Gamboa and his party were in Santa Rosa, Laguna, to inspect the impounding area of the Highway Patrol Group for recovered vehicles. They were lifting off for Camp Vicente Lim in Canlubang, Laguna, for a “command visit” when the crash happened.

Durana and PRO 4A spokesman Lt. Col. Chitadel Gaoiran said visibility upon the helicopter’s takeoff was almost zero because of dust and sand swirls stirred by the Bell 429 rotor blades.

“It’s too dusty,” Durana said.

He said the pilot and copilot of the helicopter were highly experienced and have even trained abroad.

The helicopter was also brand new, having been purchased in 2017 when Gamboa was even the head of the PNP’s Bids and Awards Committee, and he had been using it in his visits to PNP camps around the country as PNP chief.

“Full-blown investigation will be conducted, and, definitely, the PNP will come out with its findings,” Durana said.

Dusty takeoff

THE Bell 429 chopper that was carrying ranking officials of the PNP took off in a heavy cloud of dust that may have rendered the pilot blind.

This condition also probably contributed to the crash, as the pilot took off and got entangled on heavy guy-wires, as videotaped by SMNI News, a television station of DZAR, making the rounds of social media. On the other hand, it is also possible that residual dust from the Taal Volcano eruption last January 20, had caused the engine to malfunction.

The videographer, in a serendipitous moment, focused on the helicopter, which was hovering a few feet above the ground while taking in passengers at the Laperal Compound.

The video took all of four minutes, from the time it was taken while the chopper was hovering a few feet, over a wide expanse of open ground without any grass cover to prevent the dust from being disturbed.

It is also possible that residual dust from Taal’s volcanic eruption last January pervades the ground since it has not rained much since then to carry the dust away.

Whether the dust entered the chopper’s engine and caused the crash is one area aircraft investigators from the Armed Forces, or the Philippine Air Force, should be looking into.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines is not involved in the investigation.

However, retired veteran air-traffic controller, Perry Casapao, who was able to view the DZAR video said on Messenger: “It seems that it was clear of any wires when it took off, but got entangled on the way down. That dust must have affected the engines and suffered a flame out. That’s like aircraft flying through ash from Taal.”

According to eyewitnesses and reported in the news, the chopper got entangled in electric wire when it took off at 8 a.m. after Gamboa attended an event there where he reportedly delivered a speech.

Others said the chopper got entangled in a guy wire.

Casapao gave his observation,thus: “It was not electric wire, otherwise it [chopper] would have burst into flames, [and] they would have been roasted had it been a live electric wire.”

Another retired air-traffic controller, Antonio Paglinawan, who resides in Pacita Subdivision, San Pedro, Laguna; not far away from the crash site said on Messenger: “The police have been warned before not to land choppers there because of the presence of so many wires.”

A4 Friday, March 6, 2020 • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

Economy BusinessMirror

BAI: Visayas remains ASF free as of March 2

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

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ISAYAS continues to remain free from the African swine fever (ASF) amid new confirmed outbreaks of the fatal disease in hog farms in Bicol region, which is Luzon’s gateway to Visayas, according to government’s zoning plan.

As of March 2, all provinces and regions in Visayas are still considered dark green zones, or free zones, based on the Bureau of Animal Industry’s (BAI) latest update of its national zoning plan.

Industry stakeholders have pointed out that it is crucial to keep the island provinces of Visayas free from ASF after Mindanao reported outbreaks of the swine disease in Davao Occidental.

However, industry sources expressed guarded optimism that Visayas would remain free from ASF for too long.

Some traders and industr y players noted that the lockdowns and movement bans imposed by local government units in Visayas may force unscrupulous traders to transport sick, or infected, hogs to take advantage of good prices.

Last week, BAI Director Ronnie D. Domingo said they are now investigating hog far ms in Visayas after they identified some “pigs under investigation” (PUIs) in the island that may be infected with ASF. “We are investigating PUIs in Visayas. At the moment, nothing is confirmed, yet,” Domingo, who is

also the country’s chief veterinarian, told reporters in an interview on February 24, 2020.

When pressed for specific information, Domingo decline to provide any further details. However, he said, areas in the Visayas that have PUIs are “really few.”

Nonetheless, Domingo said the PUIs in Visayas were identified earlier this year. He said the government is employing two types of surveillance in determining possible ASF cases in the country.

The latest iteration of the government’s zoning plan indicated that ASF has spread to hog farms in municipalities of Cabusao and Bombon in Camarines Sur, as well as in Naga City.

The zoning plan also confirmed ASF outbreaks in Cagayan province, particularly in the areas of Solana and Tuguegarao City.

In Metro Manila, the government has declared Muntinlupa as an ASF infected zone, according to the zoning plan.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is banking on its nationwide progressive ASF Zoning Plan to eradicate the fatal hog disease.

The DA issued Administrative Circular 12 dated December 10, 2019, that formally ordered the establishment of zones across the country depending on the level of risks of regions in relation to ASF. The DA noted that its progressive zoning approach “was instrumental in the successful eradication of foot-and-mouth disease in the Philippines through intensified surveillance and animal

movement management.”

The zones are defined and classified based on geographical limits established by the veterinary authorities upon identification of the infected zone and the quarantine zone, according to the order.

“Zone classification status will be reviewed regularly depending on the epidemiological changes of the disease,” the order added.

The implementation of a nationwide zoning plan is seen by the government as a way not to disrupt trade among provinces, particularly among ASF-free areas. This is to address the series of bans imposed by provincial governments on the trade and entry of hogs, and pork-related products within their jurisdictions.

Under the zoning plan, provinces and regions would be classified based on their ASF status, which entail corresponding guidelines on the extent that they can transport and sale hogs, pork and pork products.

The country’s provinces, or regions, would be classified under two general zones: containment zone and free zones.

The containment zone is further categorized into four zones depending on the area’s ASF status: red (infected zone), yellow (surveillance zone), pink (buffer zone) and light green (protected zone).

The zoning plan would also allow government to focus efforts to limit the spread of the disease as it allows a progressive control in the affected areas and reducing risks in free areas.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Bills on retail trade, road tax hike, OFW dept hurdle 2nd House reading

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

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HE House of Representatives has approved on second reading its three priority bills seeking to allow more foreignowned retail businesses to operate in the country, hike the rates of the Motor Vehicle Road Users’ Tax (MVRUT) and the creation of the Department of Filipino Overseas and Foreign Employment.

House Bill 59, or the amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act of 2000, House Bill 6136, which amends the MVRUT, and the House Bill 5832, or the bill creating the new department for overseas Filipino workers, were approved through viva voce voting late Wednesday.

The lower chamber is expected to approve these bills on third and final reading next week, or before the congressional break on March 11.

Foreign investors in retail sector

HB 59 seeks to remove the barriers to foreign investments in the local retail sector.

The bill opens up the Philippine retail industry resulting in greater variety of products, more choices of goods for consumers, inflow of new technology and employment of more Filipinos.

The bill allows foreign-owned partnership, associations and corporations formed and organized under the laws of the Philippines, upon registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Department of Trade and Industry, or in the case of foreignowned single proprietorships, with the DTI, to engage or invest in the retail trade business with a minimum paid-up capital of the equivalent in the Philippine peso of $200,000.

The measure removes the requirement under the Republic Act 8762, or the Retail Trade Liberalization Act of 2000, for foreign investors acquiring shares of stock of local retailers.

It also deletes the requirement under RA 8762 for public offering of shares of stock by foreign-owned retail enterprises.

The bill also eliminates the required net worth, number of retailing branches, and retailing track record conditions for foreign retailers to engage in retail trade in the Philippines.

It permits only nationals from, or judicial entities formed or incorporated in countries, which allow the entry of Filipino retailers to engage in retail trade in the Philippines.

The bill also reduces the required locally manufactured products carried by foreign retailers from 30 percent to 10 percent of the aggregate cost of their stock inventory.

Economist and Marikina Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo said opening the retail trade sector to foreign competition through passage of these amendments will lower the prices

When will we Filipinos break away from the mercy of foreign capital? When will we prioritize strengthening our local capacity to move up the value chains and support local businesses?”—Brosas

for Filipino consumers.

But Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Arlene Brosas said the bill will badly hurt small entrepreneurs—and even public market vendors—and workers in local retail enterprises.

“Intensified competition in the retail trade sector will not mean lower prices of goods and more jobs for Filipinos. Rather, it will push small local retailers to cut back on labor costs instead of cutting down on prices,” said Brosas.

“When will we Filipinos break away from the mercy of foreign capital? When will we prioritize strengthening our local capacity to move up the value chains and support local businesses?” she added.

Progressive policy

ALSO, the House of Representatives has approved on second reading House Bill 6136, which updates the rates of the MVRUT and significantly expands funding for the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Joey Sarte Salceda, principal author and sponsor of the bill, said the bill is expected to yield additional government revenues of P12.14 billion in 2020, P30.6 billion in 2021, P48.08 billion in 2022, P54.17 billion in 2023 and P60.9 billion in 2024.

“The cross-party consensus of the House, including the progressive groups and the minority, to move the bill forward validates the exhaustive efforts we have done to ensure that this is the most progressive transport tax in recent history,” he said.

The MVRUT rate adjustments are as follows: For Private and Government Vehicles, there shall be a 30 percent annual rate increase for passenger cars for three years. Rates for all other vehicles, namely utility vehicles, SUVs, buses, trucks and trailers is based on per kilogram of gross vehicle weight: 1.40 per kg of gross vehicle weight for first year, 2.50 per kg of GVW for second year, 3.40 per kg of GVW for third year.

A lower rate is charged for vehicles for hire is pegged at 50 percent of the MVRUT rate for private and government vehicles.

To ensure that inflation does not erode the value of revenues, an annual increase of 5 percent is imposed

by January 1, 2023, through revenue regulations to be issued by the secretary of finance.

Salceda said that the rich will primarily pay for the tax, saying “55.6 percent of all cars are owned by the top 10 percent of the popu-

lation, while only 1.7 percent are owned by the bottom 30 percent.

This makes this tax extremely progressive. Let’s make the primary road users pay for road use.”

“More important, 50 percent of incremental revenues will finance modernization of public utility vehicles and government programs to be undertaken for the prevention of death due to road accidents and accident victims’ assistance,” Salceda added.

OFWs

THE lower chamber has also approved House Bill 5832, or the proposed Department of Filipinos Overseas Act. House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said the proposed agency will ensure the safety and security of Filipinos abroad.

“There is an urgency to prioritize the creation of an agency that would manage, harmonize, and strengthen existing policies and programs on migration to address the needs of OFWs,” Cayetano said.

Cayetano said the absence of a single agency to address foreign employment concerns has made it difficult for the government to focus on the needs and demands of migration in general, and of OFWs, in particular.

Cayetano said this new department will be responsible for the promotion of welfare and protection of rights of Filipino migrant workers and other overseas Filipinos.

He noted the need for one department and secretary solely dedicated to address the OFW welfare and concerns.

Under the bill, the amount allocated for the Assistance to National Fund will be increased to P5 billion, which shall be used for repatriation, medical, legal expenses, legal retainers, legal fees and costs and other needs of the overseas Filipinos facing legal cases and/or detention or other forms emergencies where such costs and fees are not covered by existing funds and sources.

Also the bill said a computerbased management information system on Filipinos overseas, particularly on OFWs, shall be established in cooperation with other government agencies.

This system seeks to support the Department’s operations, as well as to have a relevant source of relevant data for programs and policy formulation. The DFO shall work to integrate the other agencies relevant database into its main management information system.

Pay hike order for Cagayan Valley workers takes effect this month

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

M

INIMUM-WAGE earners in Cagayan Valley will be getting a pay increase this

month.

This after Wage Order (WO) 0220 of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB)Region 2 is expected to take effect on March 16, 2020—15 days after its publication.

WO RTWPB-02-20 integrated the existing P10 cost-of-living-allowance (Cola) of minimum-wage

earners in Region 2 to their basic pay.

It also granted them a daily pay increase ranging from P5 to P12.50.

The new order was approved by the RTWPB-Region 2 after it completed the necessary public hearing and stakeholder consultations in the Cagayan Valley region from October to December 2020.

Upon the effectivity of the new wage order, workers in nonagriculture sector, as well as retail/service establishments employing more than 10 workers will be getting a P370 daily pay.

Those employed in the agricul-

ture sector and retail/service establishments employing 10 workers and below will receive daily pay of P345.

These new rates shall apply to all minimum-wage workers and employees in the private sector in the region, regardless of their position, designation or status of employment.

It will exempt the domestic workers and persons in the personal service of another, and workers of registered Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBEs) with valid Certificates pursuant to Republic Act 9178.

The World BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Friday, March 6, 2020

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China’s virus slowdown offers hope for global containment

By Lindsey Tanner

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Ap Medical Writer

HE slowdown in coronavirus cases out of China offers a sliver of hope that the global outbreak can be controlled, but whether that can happen anytime soon without drastic measures remains to be seen, public health authorities say.

With China accounting for the overwhelming majority of the world ’s 94,000 infections and 3,200 deaths since the virus first surfaced there in late December, it’s hard to see the country as a success story. But some experts believe the easing of the crisis— there are now more new cases being reported outside China than inside it—suggests containment is possible.

World Health Organization outbreak expert Maria van Kerkhove, who recently traveled to China as part of a team from the UN health agency, said the international experts noted a drop in cases there since the end of January.

“We scrutinized this data and we believe this decline is real,” she said, adding that the extraordinary measures undertaken in China—including the unprecedented lockdown of more than 60 million people—had a significant role in changing the direction of the outbreak.

“We believe that a reduction of cases in other countries, including Italy, Korea, Iran, everywhere, that this is possible,” she said.

But the path to containment outside China is sure to be rocky, and no one is predicting when the outbreak might end.

There is some consensus among public health experts: The virus is likely to be around for quite some time, perhaps many months, and will continue to spread to many places, but it can probably be controlled with standard public health measures, though not as quickly as in China.

There is another consensus: China’s outbreak has given other countries the advantage of knowing what they’re up against. The virus was an unknown entity when it appeared in China, and authorities there discounted the possibility of human-to-human transmission.

The Chinese experience has bought other countries time to prepare and knowledge to better understand the nature of the virus.

But Dr. Amesh A. Adalja, a se-

nior scholar at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, said there is a more ominous message from the Chinese outbreak: “Authoritarian, free-speech restricting, individual rights-violating policies can panic populations; make conditions in an outbreak zone worse; and still fail to contain worldwide spread of a virus of this nature.”

Emerge nc y me d ic i ne phy sician Dr. Leana Wen, a public health professor at George Wa sh i ng ton Un iversit y, sa id widespread quarantines, lockdowns and travel bans of the sort ordered by China’s regime are unlikely to be used in other countries. How those less-aggressive approaches will play out is unclear, she said.

As China’s numbers have stabilized, “we are seeing this rapid escalation around the world. At this point, I believe things will get much worse before they get better,” Wen said on Tuesday, “and we have no idea what the trajectory will look like now that there is person-to-person transmission around the world.”

While the crisis appears to be easing in China, alarming clusters have turned up in Italy, Iran, South Korea and Japan. The US has more than 120 cases in at least 15 states, with 11 deaths, all but one of them in Washington State.

Dr. Albert Ko, a professor and department chairman at the Yale School of Public Health, said there were signs that the spread in China might have started slowing down even before authorities there implemented a travel ban and closed off Wuhan, the epicenter, in late January. That’s an argument for more conventional public health measures, including widespread testing, limiting of social gatherings and the closing of some schools.

“Travel bans and lockdowns of cities, those are drastic measures that have really large costs with respect to social disruption, stigmatization and so forth,” Ko said.

Encouraging the public to take

A MASKED man looks out near a national flag outside a traditional medicine hospital in Beijing on Tuesday, March 3, 2020. Mushrooming outbreaks in the Mideast, Europe and South Korea contrasted with optimism in China, where thousands of recovered patients were going home and new virus cases drop to a new low. AP/NG HAN GUAN

action may be more effective, he said.

“The lowest-hanging fruit for us is really beefing up what people can do, why it’s important to stay home when you’re sick, why it’s important to do hand-washing” and other preventive hygiene, Ko said.

Dale Fisher of the University of Singapore said the four large outbreaks outside China suggest what the next few weeks of the COVID-19 epidemic might look like.

“I think the virus is behaving ver y much as we would expect it to,” he said. “ There are now four parts of the world w ith heav y transmission rates, and there will probably be one or two more next week. One or two of these might come under control, but there will likely be activity elsewhere.”

Mistakes and slowness in the US effort to start large-scale testing for the virus have limited officials’ ability for the moment to get a handle on the scope of its spread, said Dr. Carlos del Rio, a specialist in infectious diseases and chairman of the global health department at Emory University in Atlanta.

Many state labs have yet to develop their own tests because of early federal restrictions, since removed. It is still taking four to five days to get results back from tests that must be sent on to more distant labs, Del Rio said. And federal guidelines, though revised recently, continue to limit who gets tested, he said.

Federa l hea lt h of f icia ls “ d r o p p e d t he b a l l , p e r io d ,”

Dogs and cats can’t pass on virus, but can test positive H ONG KONG —Pet cats and dogs cannot pass the new coronavirus on to humans, but they can test positive for low levels of the pathogen if they catch it from their owners.

That’s the conclusion of Hong Kong’s Agr iculture, Fisher ies and Conser vation Department after a dog in quarantine tested weak positive for the virus Februar y 27 and 28, and March 2, using the canine’s nasal and oral cavity samples.

A unidentified spokesman for the department was quoted in a news release as saying. “There is currently no evidence that pet animals can be a source of infection of COVID-19 or that they become sick.”

Scientists suspect the virus known as SARS-CoV-2 that causes the disease originated in bats before passing it on to another species, possibly a small wild mammal, that passed it on to humans.

However, experts from the School of Public Health of The University of Hong Kong, the College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences of the City University of Hong Kong, and the World Organisation for Animal Health have unanimously agreed that the dog has a low level of infection and it is “likely to be a case of humanto-animal transmission.”

The dog, and another also in quarantine which has tested negative for the virus, will be tested again before being released. The

department suggested any pets, including dogs and cats, from households where someone has tested positive for the virus should be put into quarantine.

In general, pet owners should maintain good hygiene, including washing of hands before and after handling animals, their food and supplies, and no kissing of their pets. People who are sick should avoid contact with pets and a veterinarian’s advice should be sought if changes in a pet’s health conditions are detected.

“Apart from maintaining good hygiene practices, pet owners need not be overly concerned and under no circumstances should they abandon their pets,” the spokesman said. AP

he sa id.

The high number of deaths in Washington State relative to the few dozen infected suggests that many people with the disease are being missed, he said. Aggressive testing is likely to reveal many more cases, del Rio said.

“I don’t think we’re going to limit community transmission, but my hope is that we’re not going to have community transmission everywhere,” he said.

The US Department of Health and Human Ser v ices said on Wednesday it is providing $35

million to 28 states and localities to help their public health departments respond to the outbreak, and increase their surveillance for the virus. Some of the funding is earmarked for such things as monitoring of travelers, lab equipment and surge staffing.

The W

Business

A6 Friday, March 6 , 2020

Global economy bludgeoned by rare supply-demand shock

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HE coronavirus is delivering a one-two punch to the world economy, laying it low for months to come and forcing investors to reprice equities and bonds to account for lower company earnings.

From one side, the epidemic is hammering the capacity to produce goods as swathes of Chinese factories remain shuttered and workers housebound. That’s stopping production of goods there and depriving companies elsewhere of the materials they need for their own businesses.

That supply shock was initially viewed as a short-term disruption, easily reversed once the virus was brought under control. Hence, the initial predictions that global growth would follow a V-shaped trajectory, sliding in the first quarter and rebounding in subsequent weeks.

Those early bets for 2020 are now in tatters because demand is slumping, too. With the virus no longer contained to China, increasingly worried consumers everywhere are reluctant to shop, travel or eat out.

As a result, companies are likely not only to send workers home, but also to cease hiring or investing—worsening the hit to spending.

How the two shocks will reverberate has sparked some debate among economists, with Harvard University Professor Kenneth Rogoff writing this week that a 1970s style supply-shortage-induced inflation jolt can’t be ruled out. Others contend another round of weakening inflation is pending.

The bottom line for central banks and governments is that there’s likely to be even more pressure to deliver economic fixes.

“A classic recession involves a shortfall of demand relative to supply,” David Wilcox, a former Federal Reserve official now at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, said in a report this week. “In that more ordinary situation, economic policy-makers know how to

help fill in the missing demand.

But this case is more complicated because it involves negative hits to both supply and demand.”

Worst since 2009

THE supply-cum-demand blows explain why the world economy is sliding toward its weakest expansion since the 2009 recession, with policy-makers’ inflation targets becoming all the more unreachable.

Companies including Hyatt Hotels Corp. and United Airlines Holdings Inc. have withdrawn their earnings outlooks, while manufacturers from Samsung Electronics Co. to Toyota Motor Corp. are battling to get production back online.

Those body blows explain why the Federal Reserve’s biggest cut to interest rates since 2008, in an emergency move on Tuesday, initially failed to spur the equity market. Rogoff ’s warning on product shortages notwithstanding, traders are now pricing inflation over the coming 10 years at just 1.48 percent, down from 1.80 percent at the start of 2020, Treasury securities show.

For central banks, the worry is that rate cuts won’t reopen factories or return workers to work. Even to support demand when the virus passes they likely need to be more inventive—combining rate cuts with targeted programs to cushion confidence and keep credit flowing.

Another reason for that is most central banks are already short of ammunition after past rate reductions.

With the Fed’s first move flopping, governments are under mounting pressure to do more. In the US, the House of Representatives passed a $7.8 billion emergency-spending bill to fund a response to the outbreak—helping deliver a rebound

in stocks lacking in the immediate aftermath of the Fed. “We’re only in the early innings of this crisis,” said former US Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers.

Some economists argue that what’s happened is mostly a supply side shock, others have highlighted the wallop to demand as well, to the degree that the distinction matters.

Supply shocks are inherently tougher for policy-makers to address, because of the difficulty of quickly restoring the production, transport or communication networks or natural-resource inputs affected by the surprise hit.

They most often involve fiscal authorities, who have up to now taken the back seat, leaving central bankers at the wheel. The US, Japan, Italy and South Korea are among those that have moved to assemble packages to address the virus, though in most cases they’re tied to the health-care industry and treatment and prevention specifically, not the broader economy.

Rates ‘hopeless’

“CERTAINLY, rate cuts will not help restock emptying grocery shelves,” said Seema Shah, chief strategist at Principal Global Investors. “Monetary policy is hopeless when supply simply cannot feed demand,” she said.

On the demand side, where central bankers are the natural firstresponders, the nature of the shock this time can make a broad-brush monetary response less effective.

While lower borrowing costs can help give households greater spending power, that aid is limited if millions are shut up at home due to antivirus measures—or simply because of fears of catching the disease.

That may help explain the People’s Bank of China’s preference to use targeted credit measures rather than large-scale interest-rate cuts since the virus erupted early this year. Among their steps, Chinese regulators have let banks run up larger totals of nonperforming loans, and loosened guidelines for bond sales.

The Fed too may need to get more expansive in its moves, Credit

Suisse Group AG analysts argue.

Zoltan Pozsar and James Sweeney said Tuesday that disruptions to the global supply chain could in turn cause payment failures, tightening financial conditions.

“The supply chain is a payment chain in reverse,” the duo wrote.

They urged “open-ended liquidity support through its balance sheet.”

The European Commission is also watching for potential turbulence in the case of a prolonged epidemic. “Cascading effects could stem from liquidity shortages in firms that have to stop production, amplified and spread out by financial markets,” a commission briefing note seen by Bloomberg said.

Last week saw the deepest slide in global equities since the credit crisis, a rapid turnaround from the record high of the MSCI All Country World Index just as recently as February 12. It remains about 8 percent down on that peak after a 2.7-percent gain Wednesday, spurred by the US spending move along with relief among some investors that the moderate Democratic candidate for president, Joe Biden, did well in the Super Tuesday primaries.

Still, the risk remains of further market disruptions.

“While the Fed’s insurance cuts did serve its purpose into late 2019, the continued lowering of rates may have limited support for markets at present,” said Jingyi Pan, market strategist at IG Asia Pte in Singapore.

It all puts the onus on policymakers to contemplate greater inventiveness. Government spending may not be able to contain the virus spread, but it can help replace freefalling consumer demand. Chetan Ahya, chief economist at Morgan Stanley projects fiscal deficits for the four major advanced economies plus China to rise to at least 4.7 percent of gross domestic product this year, the most since 2011 and up from 4.1 percent last year.

“COVID-19 is a particularly pernicious economic shock, as it is both a supply and demand-side shock,” said Mark Zandi, chief economist for Moody’s Analytics.

Bloomberg News

OPEC LOOKS TO CUT PRODUCTION Singaporean named to head AS VIRUS OUTBREAK HITS DEMAND intellectual-property agency

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V

IENNA—The oil-producing countries of the Opec cartel are considering slashing output to contain a plunge in prices that has been worsened by concerns about the virus outbreak’s disruption to the world economy.

Oil ministers from the group’s 14 countries were gathering in Vienna on Thursday as energy producers were taking a hit from a 25-percent slide in crude prices since January.

Since the new coronavirus outbreak began in China last month, air travel to the country— the world’s second-largest economy—has all but stopped. Demand for transportation fuel inside the country dropped dramatically and manufacturing was idled as cities with millions of residents locked down to contain the spread of the virus. Major companies around the world have halted business travel as meetings were canceled out of precaution.

Oil prices stabilized ahead of this week’s meeting on expectations that Opec and nonOpec members would agree to deeper production cuts. Some analysts predict the cartel will agree to slash production by 1 million barrels per day, on top of existing cuts.

In December, Opec oil-producing countries and Russia, which participates in the talks, agreed to cut production by 1.7 million barrels per day, up from the 1.2 million barrel per day cut they had been observing for the previous three years.

Iranian Oil Minister Bijan Zangeneh told the Shana news agency that “we have oversupply... and it’s necessary that Opec and non-Opec do something for the balance of the market.”

He noted, however, that Russia— which is

PRINCE ABDULAZIZ BIN SALMAN AL-SAUD, Minister of Energy of Saudi Arabia, arrives for an informal meeting of oil ministers of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, at the Opec headquarters in Vienna, Austria, on Wednesday, March 4, 2020. AP PHOTO/ROLAND ZAK

not part of Opec and would join the discussions on Friday—“would resist until the last moment” any production cuts.

Countries have been abiding by the cuts unevenly, with some nations quietly producing more than they agreed to. And Opec’s decisions to cut production have dwindling ability to boost oil prices, in part because the US has been flooding the market with cheaply produced crude.

By late Wednesday, the international benchmark for crude was trading at $51.25 a barrel, down from around $69 at the start of the year.

AP

ENEVA—A Singaporean official defeated a candidate from China in a leadership contest for the United Nation’s intellectual-property body, which was swept into a rift between Washington and Beijing over claims of Chinese theft of technological know-how.

Daren Tang, 47, the CEO of Singapore’s intellectual-property office, won a crucial nomination to become the next directorgeneral of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) over China’s Wang Binyang, a veteran at the agency.

The “coordination committee” handed a 55-28 victory to Tang in a final round of voting that began on Wednesday with five candidates vying to replace the agency’s outgoing chief, Francis Gurry of Australia.

The fight over the post pit the United States against Wang, prompting the Chinese ambassador to criticize an “attack” against a “competent” civil servant. She would have become the agency’s first woman chief at a time when the UN is promoting gender parity in high office.

WIPO’s general assembly has final say in May, but it has never rejected a committee nominee since the 192-country agency was created in 1967.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo offered congratulations to Tang, calling him “an effective advocate for protecting intellectual property.”

“We look forward to working closely with him during his tenure as director general to advance WIPO’s core mission

of safeguarding intellectual property as a means of driving innovation, investment and economic opportunity,” Pompeo said in a statement.

Top US officials including White House trade adviser Peter Navarro had spoken out against Wang, accusing Beijing of stealing intellectual property and arguing that China’s choice would reflect badly on an agency devoted to protecting it.

The stakes are high: WIPO is said to be the only UN specialized agency that consistently brings in a surplus, mainly through its patent- and trademark-filing process that costs companies money to help protect their intellectual property overseas.

The US and other Western allies have long expressed concern about China’s approach to intellectual-property, which has involved requiring companies that want to operate in its large, fast-growing market to share their technical savvy with local partners.

The standoff to replace Gurry, who was not standing for reelection, comes as China has been flexing its intellectual and diplomatic muscle in recent years. By WIPO’s own count late last year, China alone accounted for nearly half of all patent filings worldwide.

China’s ambassador in Geneva, Chen Xu, insisted Wednesday’s result was “not a defeat.”

“The whole process, I think, is a very strong indication of China’s readiness to make more contributions to the international community,” he said. “We tried our best.” AP

IN this Monday, March 2, 2020, photo, a worker wearing a mask works at a factory producing bicycle wheel rims in Hangzhou in eastern China’s Zhejiang province. Factories in China that make the world’s smartphones, toys and other consumer goods are trying to protect their employees from a virus outbreak as they resume production. Manufacturers are buying masks by the thousands and jugs of disinfectant.

The ruling Communist Party has told local officials to help reopen factories that were idled by the most intensive anti-disease controls ever imposed. CHINATOPIX VIA AP

China’s factories try to shield workers as output revives

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EIJING—To keep his 40 employees indoors and away from China’s virus outbreak, the manager of an electronics factory in Dongguan, near Hong Kong, says he hired a cook and arranged dormitories for them.

Cjtouch Electronic Co., which makes smartphone touch screens, is one of thousands of manufacturers trying to protect employees while they gradually reopen after anti-virus controls shut down much of the world’s second-largest economy.

“We have adopted strict prevention measures,” said its General Manager Zhang Feng.

Trying to curb the soaring cost of antivirus controls, the ruling Communist Party has told local officials in areas deemed at low disease risk to help reopen factories that make the world’s smartphones, toys and other consumer goods.

They were idled when Beijing extended the Lunar New Year holiday to keep workplaces empty in hopes of containing the virus that emerged in central China in December. Offices, restaurants, cinemas and shopping malls also were closed.

Officials have orders to prevent a spike in infections as millions of workers who returned to their hometowns for the holiday flow back to China’s southeastern factory belt and big eastern cities.

Following government instructions, factory operators are buying face masks by the thousands and jugs of disinfectant. Employees are scrutinized for the virus’s telltale fever.

Some manufacturers bar outsiders. Others remain closed due to a lack of employees or raw materials.

Cjtouch is in Guangdong province, home to thousands of exportdriven factories. It is back to 90 percent of normal production, Zhang said. In the three weeks since it reopened employees have used more than 3,000 masks, he said.

“We hired someone to cook for employees so they don’t need to eat outside, and persuaded them to stay in dormitories and not go out,” Zhang said.

The government has told anyone who can work from home to stay there, but factories need employees on their assembly lines.

Some still are stranded in their hometowns by the suspension of bus and train service or curbs on leaving areas deemed at high disease risk.

Mingliang Electronics Co. in the eastern city of Weifang in Shandong province resumed work this week with 20 of its 30 employees, said a manager who would give only her surname, Liu. The company makes circuit boards for US, European, South Korean and Japanese customers.

“The rest cannot make it due to restrictions on movement ordered by local authorities in the countryside,” said Liu. Those who are at work wear masks and are checked twice a day for fever, Liu said.

“We keep the place clean by disinfecting three times a day, mopping the floor and wiping computer screens with disinfectant,” she said.

“We ordered nearly 2,000 masks for employees.”

The Yayuan Toy Factory, which makes plastic cars in the southeastern city of Yiwu, a hub for export manufacturers, still is shut down due to virus fears and the difficulty of finding employees, according to its owner, Cui Ting.

Cui said his work force of 12 went home to Shanxi province in western China and Guizhou in the southeast for the holiday and have yet to return.

“We haven’t resumed production yet, because I still worry about the infection risk due to asking my employees to travel,” said Cui. Cui said he expects to get new orders in a few weeks but is in no hurry.

“Life matters more,” said Cui. Despite the renewed activity, forecasters say China’s economic growth will be flat to negative for the three months ending in March, a marked decline from the previous quarter’s 6-percent growth.

UBS estimates factory output expanded only 1.2 percent in January and February from a year earlier. UBS economists Ning Zhang and Tao Wang say exports probably fell 17 percent.

Travel disruptions also are raising costs for manufacturers that have to pay higher wages to get or keep scarce employees.

The government has promised tax breaks, low-interest loans and other aid, but it is unclear how many companies might shut down for good due to the burden of paying rent and other expenses with no revenue.

Yinhong Protective Product Co. in the city of Xiantao in Hubei, the province at the center of the outbreak, is paying “super high” wages of up to 1,800 yuan ($250) a day to attract workers, said its sales manager, Chen Jihao.

Demand for masks, protective clothing and disinfectant is soaring, but producers aren’t reaping a windfall. Chen said Yinhong’s output has increased by 20 percent to 1.2 million masks per day, but the government pays below-market prices.

Cjtouch in Dongguan kept paying employees during the shutdown, Zhang said.

Lesen Xiping Electronics Co. in the southern province of Hunan, which makes cosmetics equipment, is paying more for labor and for materials including LED display panels, said its sales manager, Flora Fang.

“We are paying extra to keep workers under the current circumstances,” Fang said.

The company, which exports to the United States, Germany and Mexico, requires its work force of 20 to wear masks and disinfects its factory daily.

“We do hope that everything will return to normal by the end of April,” she said. AP

World

sMirror

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Coronavirus outbreak delays Xi’s state visit to neighboring Japan D

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HYUNDAI JOINS KIA IN ANOTHER RECALL TO PREVENT ENGINE FIRES

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OKYO—Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Japan has been postponed so both countries can fight the coronavirus outbreak, Japan’s chief government spokesman said on Thursday.

The visit had been expected in April, but Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said it will be rescheduled when Xi ’s visit can be fruitful.

T he v ir us that emerged in

China late last year has infected 95,000 people in more than 80 countries and caused over 3,200 deaths. The vast majority of cases have been in China but Japan has also been badly hit. It

has confirmed 1,030 cases, including 706 from a cruise ship.

Twelve deaths have been confirmed in Japan.

Sweeping measures to control the spread of the virus have been taken around the world—closed schools, travel restrictions, emptied sports stadiums and offices.

Italy, Iran and South Korea have burgeoning outbreaks.

Iran reported 92 deaths among its more than 2,900 cases, though many fear the outbreak is far bigger. Among the ill are dozens of members of the government. The Islamic republic canceled on Friday prayers for the second week

to avoid public gatherings.

South Korea reported 145 new infections Thursday, raising its total to 5,766, second highest in the world.

China reported 139 new cases and 31 deaths, raising its totals to 80,409 cases and 3,012 deaths. The number of cases was higher than Wednesday’s figure, but new deaths were lower, as the illness continues to decline in the country.

W h i le ha rdest-h it Hubei province had most of the new cases and deaths, hospitals there released another 1,923 patients who were declared cured. AP

FBI working to ‘burn down’ cyber criminals’ infrastructure

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HESTNUT HILL, Massachusetts—To thwart increasingly dangerous cyber criminals, law enforcement agents are working to “burn down their infrastructure” and take out the tools that allow them to carry out their devastating attacks, FBI Director Christopher Wray said on Wednesday.

Unsophisticated cyber criminals now have the power to paralyze entire hospitals, businesses and police departments, Wray said during a conference on cyber security at Boston College. The ever-changing threat has forced law enforcement to get creative

and target the dark web sites and other tools at hackers’ disposal, he said.

“The reality is we are long past the days where we can fight this threat just one by one, one bad guy at a time ...one victim company at a time. We’ve got to figure out ways to tackle the cyber threat as a whole,” Wray told the crowd of FBI agents, university officials and others on the Chestnut Hill campus.

The US saw a nearly 40-percent increase in ransomware attacks between 2018 and 2019, said Joseph Bonavolonta, the head of the FBI’s office in Boston. There was an even

more dramatic uptick in such attacks in just the four states—Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island and New Hampshire—that the Boston office covers, he said.

“The threat of ransomware is continuing to grow and evolve, and we are seeing a shift to more sophisticated, smaller scale ransomware campaigns, which maximizes the impact on the victims to extort higher ransoms,” Bonavolonta told the conference.

Foreign actors, especially those from China, are also using cyber attacks to steal research from the defense contractors and

other companies to “avoid the hard slog of innovation,” Wray said, adding that the thieves are then turning around and using that information to compete against the very companies they ripped off.

“In effect, they are cheating twice over,” Wray said.

Wray stressed the importance of indicting cyber criminals, even when they are outside the grasp of US law enforcement in places like Russia, China or Iran, saying such criminals must be held accountable “no matter where they are.” AP

ETROIT—Hyundai is joining affiliated automaker Kia in yet another US recall for problems that could cause engine fires.

Hyundai said on Wednesday that it’s recalling nearly 207,000 Sonata midsize cars from 2013 and 2014 because a hose that connects one fuel pump to another can develop cracks, leak fuel and potentially cause a fire.

The South Korean automaker is still developing a fix. It expects to begin the recall on April 24.

The recall is the latest in a litany of problems that can cause engines to burn in models made by Kia and Hyundai. Past problems have triggered investigations by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Hyundai said in documents filed with the government that it has seen a spike in claims of fuel leaks on 2013 Sonatas. But it has no reports of fires, smoking, burning or melting parts, the documents said.

Last month Kia said it would recall over 142,000 Optima midsize cars for the same fuel hose problem. Kia said it has eight reports of fuel leaks in Optimas.

Earlier in February Kia recalled nearly 229,000 older Sedonas and Sorento SUVs because moisture can get into the antilock brake control computers,

causing an electrical short and, possibly, an engine fire. Hyundai recalled nearly 430,000 older Elantra small cars due to the same problem.

At the time, Kia had recommended the vehicles be parked outdoors until they’re repaired, but Hyundai did not. Hyundai said on Wednesday it’s now making the same recommendation.

Last April, NHTSA opened two new investigations into fires involving Hyundai and Kia vehicles after getting complaints of more than 3,100 fires and 103 injuries.

The agency granted a petition seeking the investigations by the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, a consumer advocacy group.

Engine failure and fire problems with Hyundais and Kias have affected more than 6 million vehicles since 2015, according to NHTSA documents. So far, Hyundai and Kia have recalled about 2.4 million vehicles to fix problems that can cause fires and engine failures.

In addition, the automakers are doing a “product improvement campaign” covering another 3.7 million vehicles to install software that will alert drivers of possible engine failures and send the cars into a reducedspeed “limp” mode if problems are detected. AP

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The World BusinessMirror

Friday, March 6, 2020

Russia-Turkey summit is last chance to avert Idlib calamity

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NKARA, Turkey—A summit between the Turkish and Russian leaders on Thursday may be the last chance to work out a deal that avoids further calamity in Syria’s northwest.

Faced with mounting losses for his troops in Syria’s Idlib province and a potential wave of refugees fleeing the fighting, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is eager for a cease-fire, and Vladimir Putin is ready to bargain.

With a looming new migration crisis at Europe’s borders, all eyes will be on Moscow, where the two main power brokers in Syria will see if they can hammer out yet another deal carving up northern Syria, tailored to their own agendas.

Whatever deal they can work out, it will likely bring only a temporary halt in the punishing Moscow-backed onslaught by the military of Syrian President Bashar Assad, which threatens continued suffering for the 3 million people trapped in Idlib.

“The main problem in Idlib is the desire of Assad...to establish full control of the area and block the border with Turkey, while also having pushed 3 million of the Sunni population, unfriendly to Assad, out onto Turkish soil,” said Vladimir Frolov, an independent Russian foreign affairs analyst.

The fight in Idlib, the last opposition-controlled region of Syria, has already been catastrophic for the population. Nearly a million people have fled their homes since December 1, when the latest government offensive began, in the biggest single wave of displacement since Syria’s civil war began nine years ago. With nowhere to go, many have crowded up against the border with Turkey, which already hosts 3.6 million Syrian refugees and has refused to let new ones in.

It has also brought Turkey, a Nato member, dangerously close to war with Russia.

In the past month, Syrian and Turkish troops have repeatedly clashed on the ground and in the skies, killing scores on both sides.

For Turkey, which sent thousands

of troops to Syria in the past few weeks, the intervention has been disastrous—58 Turkish troops killed in the past month, including 33 in one air strike last week.

Outraged, Erdogan threw open Turkey’s borders with Greece, declaring he would no longer hold back migrants and refugees wishing to go to Europe. Some European leaders have accused him of using refugees to blackmail the West into backing Turkey.

Analysts say the move showed Erdogan’s desperation, especially after failing to get the desired assistance from Nato, and is likely to backfire as dramatic scenes reminiscent of the 2015 migrant crisis play out at the gates of Europe.

“The Turkish side was compelled by necessity in the hope that the pressure created as such would twist Europe’s arm,” said Ahmet Kasim Han, professor of International Relations at Istanbul’s Altinbas University As his isolation deepens, Erdogan is likely to settle for less than what he aspires to at Thursday’s talks. Asked about his expectations, he told reporters Tuesday that the main topic will be to “rapidly achieve a cease-fire in the region.”

Moscow, too, appears keen on restoring some kind of status quo in Idlib.

“We expect to reach a shared view of the cause of the current crisis, its consequences and agree on a set of measures to overcome it,” Putin’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Erdogan and Putin met repeatedly the past few years to coordinate their moves in Syria.

In September 2018, they struck a de-escalation deal on Idlib that averted a Syrian offensive.

The agreement created a security zone free of heav y weapons and monitored by Turkish

IN this January 8, 2020 file photo, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (right) and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin (left), talk during a ceremony in Istanbul for the inauguration of the TurkStream pipeline. A summit meeting between the Turkish and Russian leaders scheduled for Thursday, March 5, 2020, may be the last chance to work out a deal that avoids a calamity in Syria’s northwest. Faced with mounting losses for his troops in Syria and a potential wave of refugees fleeing fighting in northwestern Syria, Erdogan is eager for a cease-fire and Putin is ready to bargain. AP/LEFTERIS PITARAKIS

troops to halt fighting. But the deal ultimately collapsed.

In October, a deal between the two leaders carved up the zone further east along the border, each deploying forces to fill the void after President Donald J. Trump’s abrupt order to withdraw US forces there.

Erdo g a n’s to p mot iv at ion now is to prevent a new wave of refugees into Turkey. His main leverage with Putin is Moscow’s desire for strong ties with Turkey to counterbalance US influence in the region.

Putin has signaled Russia’s willingness to accommodate Turkish security concerns. Having already secured Moscow’s interests and those of his Syrian allies by recapturing key cities and securing the country’s gas and phosphate reserves, he can afford to appease Erdogan to some extent on Idlib.

After last week ’s deadly air strike on Turkish troops, Russia stepped aside to allow Turkish drones and aircraft to pummel the Syrians temporarily, giving Turkey a chance to save face. But on Monday, Russia stepped back in, helping the Syrians to retake the strategic town of Saraqeb, which sits on the main Damascus-Aleppo highway. Russian military police quickly moved into the town, in a clear sign to Turkey not to attempt to retake it.

Soner Cagaptay, director at the

Washington Institute for Near East Policy, said the Moscow talks will likely come up with a deal based on the current situation on the ground, reflecting the major gains made by the Syrian government forces—thought it won’t be to the liking of Turkey, which wants Assad’s forces to roll back.

“Assad will take a good chunk of Syria. Erdogan will end up with a good chunk of the population,” he said.

Erdogan wants to return to the boundaries of the 2018 agreement and for Assad to halt attacks. It will be difficult for Russia to say yes to all of these demands. To get that, Erdogan would have to convince Putin that he’s risking deep damage in ties with Turkey—or even direct conflict.

Numan Kurtulmus, deputy leader of Erdogan’s ruling party, summed up the president’s thinking in an interview Tuesday with CNN-Turk television.

“The Russians must see that Turkey and Russia have great investments in this region. I don’t believe they would want Turkey as a total adversary for the sake of a regime that is on the verge of collapse.”

Han said Erdogan is playing an “escalated game of chicken.”

“The fundamental assumption of this brinkmanship is that Russia would not want to enter a conflict with Turkey,” he said. AP

World girds for months of trouble as virus pushes west

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ANGKOK—Nations around the world girded for months of disruptions from the new virus on Thursday as its unrelenting spread brought ballooning infections, economic fallout and sweeping containment measures.

“Countries should be preparing for sustained community transmission,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, leader of the World Health Organization (WHO), said of the twomonth-old virus outbreak. “Our message to all countries is: This is not a one-way street.

We can push this virus back. Your actions now will determine the course of the outbreak in your country.”

In places around the globe, a split was developing. China has been issuing daily reports of new infections that are drastically down from their highs, factories there are gradually reopening, and there is a growing sense that normalcy might not be that far off. Meanwhile, countries elsewhere are seeing escalating caseloads and a litany of cancellations, closures, travel bans and supply shortages.

There are about 17 times as many new infections outside China as in it, WHO said, with widening outbreaks in South Korea, Italy and Iran responsible for a majority.

“We are seeing this rapid escalation around the world,” said Dr. Leana Wen, a public health professor at George Washington University in the United States. “At this point I believe things will get much worse before they get better.”

Desperate to keep a crisis from expanding within their borders, countries have been further tightening travel restrictions.

Australia said Thursday that it is banning travel from South Korea by those who aren’t Australian citizens or permanent residents, following similar bans for China and Iran. Indonesia announced restrictions on travelers from specific parts of Iran, Italy and South Korea after previously banning travel from China. The United Arab Emirates warned its people not to travel anywhere abroad and said those who do could be subject to quarantines when they return.

No countr y has matched China’s willingness to turn to draconian measures to keep the virus from spreading, but around the world, governments took drastic steps.

Italy closed all schools and universities and forbade fans from attending sporting events. Saudi Arabia barred citizens from Islam’s holiest sites. In the United States, where 11 have died from the virus, hundreds

of people were placed in self-quarantines due to cases in a New York suburb.

In places around Europe and the US, anxiety was causing supplies of hand sanitizer and face masks to sell out, as people stood in snaking lines to stock up on food and water.

“A new risk is always scarier than one we’re familiar with because it has elements of the unknown,” said David Ropeik, who authored the book How Risky Is It, Really?

South Korea, which has the highest number of infections outside China, announced strict controls on face masks, which have been in such high demand that people have stood in line for hours to buy them. Beginning Friday, exports of masks will be prohibited and South Koreans will be limited to buying two masks a week, and only on specific days determined by the year of their birth.

“The supply side hasn’t been able to keep up,” said Kim Yong-beom, the vice finance minister in South Korea, which reported 467 new infections Thursday, bringing its total to 6,088.

Markets in Asia rose Thursday after a surge on Wall Street, but fear of economic fallout from the virus’ spread remained.

Ministers from the oil-producing countries in Opec were weighing slashing output to control plunging prices exacerbated by the outbreak. And the US Federal Reserve reported the virus has impacted tourism, lowered demand for aircraft and brought supply-chain disruptions.

The string of bad news related to the virus was weighing on people. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani urged state television to offer “happier” programs to entertain those stuck at home in a country with a worsening outbreak. Some 2,900 have been sickened and 92 have died in Iran.

“I urge all artists, scientists, psychologists and all who can bring smiles to people’s faces, come into the social media,” he said. “Today, words that make people tired are no longer advantageous.”

In China, where hospitals were releasing hundreds of recovered patients, officials reported 139 new cases of infection and 31 more deaths. In all, the country has reported 80,409 cases and 3,012 deaths.

A state visit to Japan by Chinese President Xi Jinping was postponed as both countries deal with the virus.

Worldwide, some 95,000 people in about 80 countries have been infected. AP

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Tensions rise between Greece and Turkey over migrant clashes

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ASTANIES, Greece—Greece countered accusations from Turkey on Wednesday that it was responsible for the death of a migrant, as its border authorities strove for a sixth day to keep thousands of migrants out by using tear gas, stun grenades and water cannons.

The border tensions followed last week’s decision by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to declare the country’s gateways to Greece open, in an apparent attempt to pressure Europe into offering Turkey more support in dealing with the fallout from the Syrian war to its south.

Turkish officials charged that Greek gunfire killed one migrant and wounded five others—a claim that Athens flatly rejected.

The office of Ekrem Canalp, governor for the Turkish border province of Edirne, said the death occurred on the Turkish side of the border close to the Kastanies—or Pazarkule in Turkish— crossing. An official at Edirne’s Trakya University Hospital confirmed the death and injuries.

Reporters on the Greek side heard what sounded like gunfire, though it was unclear whether live ammunition was used. People could be seen carrying what could have been a person between them, and running to the Turkish border post. Shortly afterward, at least one ambulance left.

Greek border authorities also said Wednesday that Turkish police were firing tear gas at them, and supplied video they said backed their assertion.

Greek government spokesman Stelios Petsas categorically denied any migrants had been wounded or killed by Greek authorities.

“The Turkish side creates and disperses fake news targeted against Greece,” he said. “There is no such incident with fire from the Greek authorities.”

Turkey had also claimed on Monday that a migrant was killed, which Athens again denied.

The crisis at the border of the two Nato allies—and historic regional rivals—comes at a time when tensions were already high over offshore exploration rights.

Erdogan’s decision to open the border encouraged thousands of people seeking a better life in Europe to try their luck by land and sea. He has warned that millions of migrants may be headed Europe’s way.

He has claimed more than 100,000 people have successfully crossed into Greece, vastly above the numbers being reported by Greece or observed by reporters at the border.

Greek authorities said Wednesday that more than 32,000 attempts to illegally cross the Evros border have been thwarted since Saturday morning, with 231 people—mostly Afghans— arrested. After a dip on Tuesday when top European Union officials visited the border, attempts roughly tripled to 4,600 Wednesday, while some 15,000 people were gathered along the frontier.

The European Union has accused Erdogan of blackmail.

Erdogan made the decision to open the border after a Russiabacked Syrian government offensive into Syria’s northwestern Idlib province killed dozens of Turkish soldiers fighting in Syria and prompted nearly a million Syrian civilians to head toward Turkey.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, “is very concerned about the situation on the border,” UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Wednesday.

As well as seeking to prevent migrants from crossing over land, Greece is having to patrol its waters as hundreds of migrants have headed for the eastern Aegean Sea islands from the nearby Turkish coast. Migrants cross in crammed and unseaworthy dinghies provided by smuggling rings. A child died when the boat he was in capsized off the island of Lesbos this week.

Gale-force winds and rough seas hampered sea crossings on Wednesday.

The Greek government has called the situation a direct threat to national security and imposed emergency measures to carry out swift deportations, and freeze asylum applications for one month.

Migrants have been reporting being summarily pushed back across the border into Turkey.

The mass movement toward Greece has appeared organized.

Buses, minibuses, cars and taxis were provided in Istanbul to ferry people to the border, while some of those who managed to cross have said they were told by Turkish authorities to go to Greece.

Meanwhile, Turkish officials closed the only other road crossing into Greece later Wednesday, citing “technical” work.

European Union interior ministers held emergency talks to show solidarity with Greece and to raise more equipment to bolster the 27-country bloc’s border with Turkey.

The European Commission has praised Greece as “the shield” on Europe’s external borders.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, speaking at the French Senate, said the “migratory pressure is at Europe’s door....

That migratory pressure is being organized by President Erdogan’s regime to blackmail the European Union. The EU won’t give in to blackmail.”

Turkey, for its part, accused Greece of mistreating refugees.

Erdogan on Wednesday called on Greece and other European nations to respect migrants’ rights. He also accused EU countries of hypocritical behavior, saying they had rushed to Greece’s help “with money, boats and soldiers” to prevent a new influx of migrants but ignored Turkey’s plight concerning 3.7 millions Syrian refugees on its territory.

Meanwhile, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia pledged to help Greece to deal with pressure along its border. The four countries have been known for their tough stance against migrants and rejected an EU plan to redistribute refugees in member-states.

European Council head Charles Michel was meeting with Erdogan in Ankara Wednesday, while EU Vice President Josep Borrell and Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic were holding talks with Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay.

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with Erdogan, Borell said that the EU delegation asked Turkey “not to encourage the further movement of refugees and migrants toward the EU borders.” AP

Agriculture/Commodities BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng • Friday, March 6, 2020 A9

Govt aims to keep rice imports at 1.6 MMT

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By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

@jearcalas

YEAR after the rice trade liberalization (RTL) law took effect, Manila said it is targeting to maintain imports at around 1.6 million metric tons (MMT)—the estimated shortfall in local output—to stabilize the farm-gate price of the staple.

Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar said the country’s rice production is capable of supplying only 85 percent to 87 percent of the requirements of Filipino consumers.

“That’s the direction [to keep imports at that level]. Managing importation and enhancing local pro-

ductivity equals better opportunity for rice farmers, and they are more productive and competitive and they have higher income,” Dar told reporters in an interview at the sidelines of the government’s celebration of the anniversary of the RTL law.

The Department of Agriculture

(DA) is aiming to hike local palay production to a record-high 19.6 MMT this year via the interventions bankrolled by the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) created by the RTL law.

The law deregulated the local rice industry and eased import rules to increase the supply of the staple and make it more affordable.

Dar also said the tightness in global rice supply due to the decline in the output of Thailand and Vietnam is an “opportunity” for local palay prices to recover. Thailand and Vietnam are currently grappling with the ill effects of a severe El Niño on their farms.

He said the government expects the arrival of rice imports to decline during harvest this month after the DA invalidated thousands of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearance (SPSIC) that were unused since last year.

“As what we have been saying,

From shore to soil: Former OFW discovers success in mechanized farming

FORMER seaman Melbert Fadrigo, 30, gave up his job to manage their family’s rice and corn farm in Antique. Through the Department of Agriculture and LandBank’s Acef Loan Program, he was able to improve the farm’s productivity through mechanized farming.

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AMTIC, Antique—Melbert Gabriel Fadrigo sailed oceans and seas for seven years before deciding to retire and return to his family’s rice and corn farm in this town. With the help of Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank), Fadrigo availed himself of the Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (Acef) for the acquisition of his brand-new four-wheeled tractor with rotavator.

“Sa una ang tingin mo sa farming, parang mahina ang kita. Pero habang tumatagal na, makikita mo na basta may tamang diskarte at equipment, malaki rin talaga ang kikitain.

Bakit ka pa magbabarko kung yung kikitain mo dun, kikitain mo rin dito sa lupa. [At first glance, you think there’s little money in farming. But in time you realize that, with the right moves and equipment, you can really grow a profit. Why do you have to keep sailing abroad when what you earn there, you can also earn here, on land]?” Fadrigo explained.

The youngest among three siblings, Fadrigo learned of the hardships of the manual tilling of land at an early age, accompanying his father plant rice and corn seeds in their 12-hectare agricultural land while he was still in high school. Back then, farming was laborious. Plowing a hectare of land took two to three days using a carabao. It also cost them more as their kuliglig or improvised tractors required more crude oil to run, more workers to operate, and more time needed to cultivate their land as compared to modern tractors. Before turning to full-time farming, Fadrigo first tried his luck as a cook in a cargo ship in 2010.

Even then, he knew that his father needed someone who could continue their family’s legacy in farming.

Fadrigo finally decided to take over the management of the family’s farm from his father in 2017. But he knew that he needed to adopt modern technology in order to increase their farm’s productivity.

“I persuaded my father to get a tractor

because we’re behind when we just use the kuliglig. At first, we were renting a tractor from a cooperative. There, we realized that having a tractor, really makes a difference because farming becomes fast and efficient,” he said in Filipino.

LandBank assisted Fadrigo in reaching for his aspiration to mechanize their farming methods. A year after he decided to become a full-time farmer, Fadrigo’s application for the Acef program was approved

by LandBank Antique Satellite Office, making him the first-ever Acef availer in the province. This enabled him to procure the P900,000-priced tractor.

Since Fadrigo acquired the tractor, their productivity and income significantly increased. From spending two to three days for land preparation, they can now complete the job in just two hours for 1 hectare of land.

Using his tractor, he was also able to earn extra income by servicing neighboring farms in the localities of Hamtic, San Jose, Sibalom and Tobias Fornier, which he charges for P3,000 to P6,000 depending on the land size.

A nd since availing of the Acef program, he has employed six regular farmworkers to man their farm and operate their equipment.

“Acef is really a big help; because of this.

Our work became light and most of all, we grew our profit. That’s why I’m grateful to LandBank for the assistance,” Fadrigo shared.

Moving forward, Fadrigo hopes to expand his business to rice trading by acquiring his own solar and mechanical dryers, and warehouse, also with the help of LandBank.

The Acef Lending Program is a joint program of the Department of Agriculture and LandBank which aims to provide necessary credit to farmers and fishers, their cooperatives and associations, and micro and small enterprises to increase their productivity, and to enhance the competitiveness of agricultural players.

it is managing the balance between enhancing productivity and competitiveness, and once you have some idea then you can target your importation,” said Dar. Dar noted that the nationwide rice stocks are good for 80 days. “After this main harvest we will open up the importation again during the rainy days starting June to ensure we have sufficient supply.”

Appeal

RICE industry traders and importers told the BusinessMirror that the DA, through the Bureau of Plant Industry, which oversees rice importation, has appealed to them in a recent dialogue to cut or if possible, totally stop buying imported rice during harvest.

However, a trader noted that everything will be “business as usual” for them since their operations depend on importing the staple unless the govern-

ment will again stop issuing SPS-ICs. The government stopped issuing SPSICs in September and October last year.

“We don’t over-purchase we just bring in whatever is the demand of our buyers,” a Manila-based trader told the BusinessMirror.

Another trader based in Metro Manila told the BusinessMirror that rice imports have been declining due to lower demand. This could cause the high carry-over stocks to increase further after harvest.

“There are reports in Vietnam that the Philippines will stop issuing SPSIC. What can we do if [Manila will] stop issuing it?” the trader said.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority obtained by the BusinessMirror indicated that the country imported 2.76 MMT of rice last year, 38 percent higher than the nearly 2 MMT recorded in 2018.

PSA data also showed that the value

of crops production, which accounted for 50.6 percent of total farm output, fell slightly to P402.894 billion in 2019 from P406.119 billion in 2018.

Despite a 5-percent expansion in the fourth quarter, total unmilled rice output in 2019 declined by 1.3 percent due to a series of contractions in the previous quarters.

Total palay output fell to a threeyear low of 18.814 MMT, PSA data showed.

The government said the typhoons that struck the country in December had reduced the production of rice and other crops.

Aside from the typhoons, the onslaught of African swine fever also slowed the expansion of farm output last year. The growth rate settled at 0.7 percent, lower than the government’s goal of 2 percent, but slightly higher than the 0.54 percent recorded in 2018.

A10 Friday, March 6, 2020 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

Believe the govt about COVID-19?

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ISTRUST in government is normal and in the 21st century is not only expected but also necessary. However, common sense should occasionally prevail over paranoia and political agenda.

Too often—and particularly on social media—we hear something along these lines: “It is impossible that the Philippines does not have more COVID-19 cases. Obviously, the government is lying.”

There is a general mindset that the odds of something happening are so high that we are missing something. It is “impossible” that planet Earth is the only place in the universe with intelligent life. Granted that the universe is a large place, our nearest living neighbor might be a long ways away. With all the supposed “unidentified flying objects” around, (and some very weird creatures we think as human beings) there must be aliens in our midst. But that does not make it true. The same goes for COVID-19 cases.

Just because the Philippines has avoided the epidemic does not mean that the government is lying to the people.

A brief examination of the global infections shows that they have tended to come from immediate visitors from China and locals that had contact with those visitors. Even with the large number of Chinese tourists, maybe the timing of the outbreak before the Lunar New Year did not see that many Chinese tourists in the Philippines.

Thailand had several cases initially, which were all from Chinese tourists that infected several locals. But since then, there have been virtually no new cases reported. Singapore got hit, but again the cases could be traced from, for example, a large meeting of international business people.

The reality is that the “local” cases around the world have been clustered. Italy is being attacked by COVID-19 and has just canceled all school classes in the country “until further notice.” There was one reported case and suddenly three towns had many people falling ill that the area was put under quarantine.

In just three days, the number of infected cases went up to more than 230 from an initial three. At last count, Italy has over 3,000 cases and 100 fatalities.

The point is that any government can contain and lie about even a few isolated cases. However, as the contagion rate is high with COVID-19, it is probable that one infection would lead to several if not many other cases rapidly. It would be almost impossible to conceal several cases of severe pneumonia even in a small regional hospital. Word would spread as quickly as the virus.

It is necessary to question the government’s words and actions.

It is necessary to be skeptical and cautious. We have an obligation to make sure that truth is being told. But we also have an obligation to be sensible and realistic.

If the COVID-19 takes hold in the Philippines, the people will be the first to know; not the government. And the people will tell the truth.

Since 2005

BusinessMirror A broader look at today’s business ✝ Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Founder Publisher Editor in Chief Associate Editor News Editor Senior Editors

Online Editor Creative Director Chief Photographer Chairman of the Board & Ombudsman President VP-Finance VP Advertising Sales Advertising Sales Manager Group Circulation Manager

Ser Percival K. Peña-Reyes, Ph.D.

EAGLE WATCH

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IGITIZATION is a buzzword nowadays, so there might be a need to discuss its meaning. Doing so requires a distinction between analog and digital technologies.

Analog technology precedes digital technology. In the former, information is translated into electric pulses of varying amplitude. In the latter, information is translated into binary format (i.e., zero or one), where each bit is representative of two distinct amplitudes. Examples of analog technology are old radios, megaphones, and volume control on old telephone handsets, while examples of digital technology are modern electronic products, such as computers and smartphones.

Digitization, as Techopedia defines, is the process of converting analog signals, or information of any form, into a digital format that can be understood by computer systems or electronic devices. The term is used when converting information, such

as text, images, and sounds, into binary code. Digitized information is easier to store, access, and transmit, and digitization is used by a number of consumer electronic devices.

In its report on Philippine media trends for 2020, Kantar Media notes that digitization is accelerating in the country. Digital television, in particular, is quickly becoming the norm among Filipino households.

The share of television homes using cathode ray tube TV sets decreased from 58 percent in 2018 to 51 percent in 2019. By contrast, the share of TV homes using plasma TV increased from 46 percent in 2018 to 53 percent in 2019. These trends suggest that there are currently more flatscreen homes than CRT homes.

Lourdes M. Fernandez

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Digitization has the potential to provide much wider access to knowledge and information.

Basic education can more easily reach children in remote areas that are otherwise beyond the access of schools and teachers.

Poor households, especially those in rural areas, can gain access to formal financial services through digital means.

Moreover, digital television transition continues to grow across all areas. In urban areas, from 2018 to 2019, DTT incidence, which is measured as percent of TV homes, climbed in the following: Mega Manila (from 56 percent to 66 percent), Metro Manila (from 60 percent to 67 percent), Suburbs (from 51 percent to 65 percent), Urban North Luzon (from 7 percent to 13 percent), Urban Central Luzon (from 22 percent to 39 percent), Urban South Luzon (from 8 percent to 16 percent), Urban Visayas (from 7 percent to 14 percent), and Urban Mindanao (from 1 percent to 5 percent). So, for Urban Philippines as a whole, DTT incidence increased from 33 percent in 2018 to 40 percent in 2019. For Rural Philippines, DTT incidence, likewise, increased,

The integrity of public servants

T. Anthony C. Cabangon

BusinessMirror is published daily by the Philippine Business Daily Mirror

MEMBER OF

Digitization as development driver

SERVANT LEADER

B

ROTHERS and sisters, when Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa was asked about his position on the issue of the ABS-CBN franchise renewal, this is what he said: “Ako ay totoong tao, sabi ko may bias ako towards my President. [I am a real person, I said I have a bias towards my President].” While the senator claims he has his own decision when it comes to this issue, he confessed of his bias for the President, despite the seeming attack against press freedom and threat to the jobs of thousands of employees of the network if its franchise will not be renewed. It can be remembered when President Duterte was angry with the management of the network because they didn’t air his campaign ads in 2016. The President has many times threatened the network won’t be able to renew its franchise.

Bato has garnered much criticism, but it’s no surprise that he claims his loyalty is to the President. In truth, this kind of character of our public officials has been a disease in our government for a long time—our leaders are loyal to the people above them with power, not to the people that they should serve.

Last week, we celebrated the

34th anniversary of the Edsa People Power Revolution. This peaceful revolution ended the tyranny of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

His regime is now described as one of the darkest chapters in our history. From 1975 to 1985, over 3,000 were reportedly slain, an estimate of 35,000 people were allegedly tortured, and 70,000 were illegally

arrested. Aside from this mass violation against human rights, 6 out of 10 Filipino families suffered during the last years of the Marcos regime.

The livelihoods of farmers and laborers also plummeted, along with the prices of goods rising up to almost three times as before. Added to this is the inflation of foreign debt.

After over three decades, why does the suffering and abuse of human rights in the country still continue?

We moved forward without learning from history.

This is not only because of the Marcos family or even President Duterte; this is because of the public officials who chose to give their loyalty to whoever is at the seat of power, instead of doing their sworn duties to the public. It is the public servant’s responsibility to uplift the people.

According to the social teachings of the Church, “The subject of political authority is the people considered in its entirety as those who have sovereignty.” The power accompanying the title or position held by public officials came from the people. The people bestow this upon them when they were elected. Therefore, the true sovereign of our public officials is not the president, but the people. As the

albeit at a more modest pace, from 2018 to 2019.

With respect to Internet usage, as reported by Internet World Stats, the number of Internet users in the Philippines increased from about 69.6 million (65.3 percent of total population) in 2018 to about 79.0 million (73.1 percent of total population) in 2019. This implies that the number of Internet users grew much faster than the total population did from 2018 to 2019 (13.5-percent growth in the number of Internet users versus 1.4-percent growth in the total population).

In 2019, across countries, the Philippines was at 11th place, with about 73.1 percent of its population being Internet users. At 10th place was Iran, with about 76.0 percent of its population being Internet users, while Vietnam was at 12th place, with about 70.4 percent of its population being Internet users. Comprising the top 5 were Germany (95.8 percent of population), the United Kingdom (94.9 percent of population), Japan (93.5 percent of population), Italy (92.5 percent of population), and France (92.3 percent of population).

What is remarkable is that the Philippines has exhibited such See “Eagle Watch,” A11

focus of leadership, the interest of the people must be the most important agenda of public officials, not the whims of one person.

One big act of treason to the people is a public official becoming an instrument of vengeance and self-interests. We saw this during the Marcos regime, which People Power sought to end. We may have succeeded then in dethroning the dictator, but as long as there are public servants who are not loyal to the people, the suffering of the people, and abuse of power in the country will not cease.

Brothers and sisters, let us remind our public officials about the lessons from the book of Psalm 78:72, “And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.” Where is the loyalty of our shepherds? Have they been leading greatly? We the people give power to our public servants. Let us hold them accountable for their duties to serve us.

Make it a habit to listen to Radio Veritas 846 Ang Radyo ng Simbahan in the AM band, or through live streaming at www.veritas846.ph, and follow its Twitter and Instagram accounts @veritasph, and YouTube at veritas846.ph. For your comments, e-mail veritas846pr@gmail.com.

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A message for Emma and Sam

Friday, March 6, 2020 A11

Documenting the documentarians Tito Genova Valiente

ANNOTATIONS

Manny F. Dooc

TELLTALES

M

Y youngest daughter, Emma, got married a couple of weeks ago and below was my message to the new couple and the guests:

I’m the father of the bride. I’m emphasizing that because when Emma was in grade school, I was already over 50 years old. Every time we participated in Family Day, her classmates would ask Emma why she brought her grandfather to join the games, but she would be the proudest student every time I finished the sack race. Luz and I were both over 40s when the Lord gave us Emma.

And indeed, our lives began again. I was then working in Hong Kong as an expat and my family “harem” was living with me—my wife and Emma’s three elder sisters. We were on our third year abroad, when my wife Luz missed her period. We went to a lady pediatrician who had a thriving medical practice in Hong Kong Central District. After confirming Luz’s pregnancy, the doctor took us aside and said to Luz: “[G]iven your age, do you still want to bear a child? There are attendant risks if you decide to keep the baby. She may be born with some abnormality.” Aghast of what we heard, we firmly told her that we would keep the baby no matter what and that we would love the child with all our heart. Today, we are giving her to Sam who everyone in my family knows will love her even more.

When she was a baby, she would fall hard from the bed every night even though she sleeps between Luz and me. So we decided to sleep on the floor—to make her more comfortable since we did not have an extra mattress—she lay on my tummy with her two long pillows placed on my sides to give her more bedroom and her feeding bottles arranged next to me. Both of us would get a good sleep until my shirt got damp by her warm pee. Luz would change her diaper while I changed my pajama, but the affection we had for her never changed.

Sam and Emma, some matters may dampen your relations in the course of your married life; you may change your ways but never change your love for each other.

Remember, Emma, when you were very young and just barely learning how to walk and run around. Every evening after my work, you and your mom would meet me at the huge football field at the back of the Serene Court where we lived. It was next to the Hong Kong Victoria Harbor where the Hong Kong cruises passed by. We would wave at the passengers on the deck and wondered which foreign ports they would call, what exotic places and interesting people they would meet in their voyage.

Eagle Watch. . . continued from A10

positive trends despite lagging behind its Southeast Asian neighbors in terms of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure. As reported in the Philippine Development Plan 20172022, despite increases in service coverage (cellular mobile at 99.4 percent and broadband Internet at 76.4 percent of cities and municipalities), Philippine ICT infrastructure is still inadequate and pales in comparison with competing economies in Asia in terms of quality and affordability. In 2016, broadband download speed in the Philippines was among the slowest at 4.3 megabits per second vis-à-vis the Asean-5 average of 9.6 Mbps, while the cost of fixed broadband as a percentage of gross national income (GNI) was at 7.5 percent,

Emma must have known then that life is a journey; that it is a neverending saga of joys and sorrows, of successes and failures. Today, you have achieved another happy milestone by entering into married life.

You’re fortunate that you only kissed one frog to find your prince.

You both graduated Magna Cum Laude at UP—a perfect match made in heaven. As a couple, you’ll set up some rules to keep order in the house: call whenever you’ll come home late, never forget anniversaries and don’t keep secrets from each other. Follow your rules. Fall in line but always fall in love with each other.

I commissioned a young artist to do your portraits and your sisters’. On each portrait was written a word—HEAL for Dra. Karen, LEAD for corporate leader Penny, PROTECT for lawyer Ria and CREATE for you as an artist. I did not support your move to shift to Fine Arts from Business Administration where you were doing very well in academics.

But you prevailed with your mom’s approval over my objection. Talking to your school dean to dissuade you did not help. You redeemed yourself by graduating at the top of your class.

As a young professional, you’ve done creative works that we are all proud of, but your greatest creation, and definitely with Sam’s collaboration, will only happen when you deliver us your magnum opus, a young Samuelito, who will call me Lolo and your mom Lola. Sam, let Emma’s spirit soar. Let her dreams fly and scale the highest mountains.

Love is a word that is most difficult to define. You can consult lexicons but even the genius of Webster will fail you. Many songs and poems have attempted to capture its essence, but they were never enough.

It’s more than the many splendored things; it’s greater than the promise of a rose garden. Last Valentine’s Day, a lover sent his sweetheart a funeral wreath with the inscription: “Patay na patay ako sayo.” But true love is immortal; it never dies. So let’s celebrate love with this young couple by offering them a toast. Sam and Emma, remember this hard and remember it always—the true measure of love is to love without measure. I said exactly the same words when your elder siblings got married. For these words are constant and sacrosanct.

And as in every fairy tale, our collective wish is: may you live happily ever after. God bless you and the beautiful children you will bring forth unto this world. Congratulations! way above the 5.0-percent affordability threshold.

Indeed, digitization has the potential to provide much wider access to knowledge and information. Basic education can more easily reach children in remote areas that are otherwise beyond the access of schools and teachers. Poor households, especially those in rural areas, can gain access to formal financial services through digital means. Government services that are otherwise difficult to access for geographic or logistical reasons can become more available, accessible and prompt.

Digitization is already happening organically. Pursued more deliberately, digitization can become a development driver the country urgently needs.

The author teaches economics at the Ateneo de Manila University. He thanks Mr. Jay Bautista, managing director at Kantar Media, for sharing data and valuable insights.

I

S it possible to have a rape-less society?

It was one of the nights in the recently concluded Cinema Rehiyon in Naga City, and re-runs were happening in Savage Mind, a bookstore and cultural hub in the city. Returning to Naga was an award-winning documentary called Walang Rape sa Bontok by Clara Pulido Ocampo and Lester Valle.

It is a thick description of not only rape but gender relations informed by ethnography, immersive filmmaking and political psychology.

Ocampo is the narrator, writer and the researcher. She is in search of a society that has no incidence of rape cases. Her quest has brought her to Bontoc because of Dr. June PrillBrett, an anthropologist whose study has shown that, for many years, the said place was a land where there was no rape.

What made the study exciting and problematic is the statement that in Bontoc, there is no name, no concept of rape. If there is no existing name for a thing, then that thing does not exist.

The theory behind this claim comes under many names—Cognitive Anthropology, Ethnosemantics, Ethnoscience, Folk Taxonomy…

Implicit in the theoretical assumptions is the idea that culture and societal change can create a shift in behavior and social mores. Slowly, a term for the act of rape can enter the Bontoc society and, from then on, alter whatever has been there.

The documentary brings us around the many groups in the Bontoc society. Old men and old women, tribal leaders, cohort groups are made into focused group discussions.

Their responses appear to validate the study of the anthropologist.

Every now and then, expression of doubts—and sadness—sweep across the respondents as they realize they are talking about an era long gone. Many other non-Bontok groups have entered their society and have brought with them different concepts.

Perhaps, there is already rape in Bontoc?

There is an overwhelming nostal-

gia in the recollection of these key informants of a time when society had rules governing relations between sexes. It was a society where codes of conducts were enforced given how small, isolated and circumscribed the people and the land were.

Both Bontok men and women are amused, puzzled and admiring of the old society, which has reared them up.

That night though, in Savage Mind, many were not amused but were rather shocked at the reason why the documentary was made. Ocampo who was there for the conversation with the mostly young audience disclosed the reason for her search for a land where no rape existed: she herself was a rape victim at a very young age.

Her research assistant who accompanied her in the course of the investigation and filmmaking was also a rape victim.

There was, however, another critical issue facing the documentary.

This arose when Ocampo declared that she is not a Bontok, and that she has only lived there for five years.

A young film critic approached me a day after the screening and asked how reliable the account of the documentarian was. Isn’t she an outsider?

This position of who has the right to imagine one’s land or region has always branded regional filmmakers. The Mindanaoan filmmaker, for example, can claim that mainstream, Manila-based directors can fetishize—obsessively objectify— the issues or problems felt and faced by those who are of and from the region. That in the final reckoning, the mainstream artist wins by prestigious default and with the region—or

the area—reduced to the wild imaginings of an outsider.

The debate is valid. For many years, Manila has been plundering the peripheral regions for their tales and myths mainly because the Center has power and fund. During these latter years, however, homegrown filmmakers and artists have privileged the position of their own languages and perspectives to create new worlds that are sincerely of the regions. The horizons caught by cameras are aimed at displacing and replacing the postcard-pretty and malignant memories inflicted on the past that may not even have existed in non-Tagalog/Filipino fields and battlefields.

Never has the struggle between the outsider and the insider been violently real than in the rise of regional cinema vis-à-vis the mainstream movies.

The documentary with its sense

of the actual and real is at the crux of what regional filmmaking can do to our search for identities or the identity of our searches for the truth. A documentary, to quote Raymundo Gleyzer, the Argentine documentarian and desaparecido, “must be a summons for action. It must appeal to our people’s capacity for tears and anger, enthusiasm and faith...”

We can argue on perspectives but we cannot sit idly by and consume a documentary questioning the existence of a place where no woman— or man—is safe from any physical assault or rape.

The question next time should not be about a place where there is no rape but about why there is rape at all. The question should be about the act to end man-made systems enabling rape and all kinds of violence against persons.

What to expect from a UK-US trade deal

By Therese Raphael Bloomberg Opinion

T

HROUGHOUT the 2016 Brexit referendum campaign and at many points during the Brexit debates that followed, a free-trade deal with the US was dangled by Brexiters as the prize that beckoned if only they’d hold their nerve. That prize may soon be there for the taking, but the closer it gets, the less impressive it looks.

This week Boris Johnson’s government published a weighty document setting out the UK’s objectives for a deal that would bring “better jobs, higher wages, more choice and lower prices for all parts of the UK.” Donald J. Trump welcomed the start of talks, enthusing about the “fantastic and big” trade deal the two countries will do. In reality, it will probably be neither.

The overall impact of a trade deal can only be described as modest. In the best of the two scenarios set out in the UK paper, a free-trade agreement would add £15.3 billion to the UK economy over 15 years, or a 0.16 percent boost to GDP. For the US, the elephant in this negotiation, the rewards require a magnifying glass—the best-case scenario delivers a boost of five-hundredths of a percent of GDP. That’s not to say a trade-opening agreement isn’t worth having. The two economies are closely linked, with 19.8 percent of UK exports going to the US and £221 billion ($282.9 billion) of trade between them. Each employs over 1 million of the other’s workers. And in this age of protectionism, even small measures to reduce trade barriers

are to be applauded.

For both countries, however, the chief motivation is political.

Johnson sees the US deal as the first major purchase using Britain’s much-vaunted Brexit dividend, sovereignty. Should trade talks with the EU break down, as is very possible, the US ones offer a handy distraction. While Johnson has been clear that no deal with the EU is better than a bad deal, almost any deal with the US will do, so long as Britain’s carefully protected National Health Service isn’t on the table. For Trump, an early supporter of Brexit, a trade deal with Britain is a way of widening Washington’s sphere of influence and countering the EU’s trade juggernaut.

While Johnson has gushed about potential trade benefits for a range of goods from Welsh lamb to Scottish salmon, ceramics from Stoke and cars, it is in the services sector—which is over 80 percent of the UK economy and 46 percent of UK exports—that Britain clearly hopes a deal will provide real marketopening benefits. It’s a good goal, but Britain’s negotiators will need a crow bar and a measure of luck to get what they want there.

The US is very good at throwing regulatory obstacles in the way of foreign service providers. Measured by the OECD’s Services Trade Restrictiveness Index (STRI), the US puts up more nontariff barriers than the UK across a number of services areas, from air and maritime transport to legal services, commercial banking and logistics. The US has more barriers to trade than the average advanced country in 18 out of the 22 services sectors that the OECD measures.

The costs of these barriers— ranging from a tax equivalent of about 3 percent on road freight transport to 40 percent in broadcasting—exceed the average tariff on goods most of the time. These are amplified for small- and medium-sized firms, as compliance with regulatory hurdles imposes an additional 12-percent cost on them compared to what large firms face.

Here’s a sense of the gap in barriers for services between the two countries in 10 sectors: These barriers come in different guises, from restrictions on foreign entry into the market to licensing requirements. As former Tory MP Chris Leslie correctly noted, many appear at state level. For example, lawyers coming to the US must pass local bar exams (though since 2016 foreign attorneys can get temporary authorization to practice law in New York). In the US maritime sector, the CEO, board chairman and a majority of directors must be US citizens. For US air transport firms, 51 percent of the nonvoting shares and 75 percent of voting

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equity must be held by US citizens.

Those restrictions are jealously guarded by industry lobbies.

Even with two highly motivated trade partners, there are plenty of areas of disagreement where Britain will come under pressure.

Johnson has repeatedly said the National Health Service “is not for sale,” but finding a way to liberalize pharmaceutical pricing and lengthen patent protection have been key American demands. So is opening the British market to American agricultural products and lifting a ban on chlorine-washed chicken.

Trump will likely also put pressure on Johnson to water down the digital services tax that comes into force in April.

The US election also complicates the calculations. Trump could lose, jeopardizing the likelihood of any deal he approves to get through. Or he could back away from a concession that carries domestic political costs out of fear it would anger his base. Trade talk is not usually dinner table conversation, but contentious issues—whether pharma or chicken—can blow up.

Meanwhile, disagreements over Huawei, policy toward Iran and other issues are a reminder that however special the relationship with the US, interests are not always aligned.

Trade negotiations also have a habit of simply getting dragged out. Johnson has again postponed his visit to Washington, now due this summer. One way or another, he may eventually have a trade deal to announce, but many will wonder what all the fuss was about.

A12 Friday, March 6, 2020

PSA survey: 2.39 million Filipinos jobless in January

F

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

IVE out of 100 Filipinos who are part of the country’s labor force are jobless, according to the results of the January round of the Labor Force Survey (LFS) released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Thursday.

The PSA said the country’s jobless rate remained at 5.3 percent, the same level posted in January 2019. There were 2.39 million unemployed during the period, higher than last year’s 2.28 million. The figures, PSA assistant national statistician Wilma A. Guillen said,

were adjusted using 2015 population estimates. “[The] population [of Filipinos] 15 years old and over was estimated at 73 million in January 2020.

This estimate was placed at 71.89 million last year of the same period,” Guillen told reporters in a

news briefing in Quezon City onThursday.

“Out of this population, 45.04 million were part of the labor force in January 2020 compared to 43.31 million last year of the same month,” she added.

PSA data also showed the underemployment rate fell to 14.8 percent in January 2020, from last year’s 15.4 percent. Guillen said the rates correspond to 6.32 million underemployed workers, lower than last year’s 6.33 million.

Ateneo Center for Economic Research and Development (Acerd) Director Alvin P. Ang said the decline in underemployment is a “positive development.”

Underemployment reflects the quality of jobs available in the country. PSA said underemployed persons who worked for less than 40 hours in a week are called visibly underemployed persons.

163,000

Industry job losses from January 2019 to January 2020. The employment data show that industry jobs created during the period declined to 8 million in January 2020 from 8.17 million

Industry jobs

HOWEVER, Ang said a closer look at the employment data show that industry jobs created during the period declined to 8 million in January 2020 from 8.17 million. This translated to 163,000 job losses during the period.

Jobs in construction declined by 109,000; manufacturing, 50,000; and water supply, sewage, waste management and remediation See “Jobless,” A2

House ‘order’ to NTC on ABS-CBN ‘illegal’

A

PETITION was filed on Thursday before the Supreme Court seeking to enjoin the National Telecommunications

Commission (NTC) from issuing a provisional authority to media giant ABS-CBN. In his petition, lawyer Larry

NORTHEAST MONSOON AFFECTING NORTHERN LUZON LOW PRESSURE AREA 325 KM SOUTHEAST OF HINATUAN, SURIGAO DEL SUR as of 4:00 pm - March 5, 2020

Gadon argued that respondents House Speaker Alan Cayetano and House Committee Palawan Rep. Franz Alvarez violated the

principle of separation of powers when they directed the NTC, which is under the Executive branch, to issue a provisional authority to ABS-CBN pending the renewal of its franchise which is set to expire this coming May. Gadon, through his law yer Al Vitangcol, said while waiting for the SC’s resolution on the 20-page petition for prohibition, he asked the SC to issue a TRO against NTC Chairman Gamaliel Cordoba to restrict him from complying with the order issued by Cayetano and House Committee on Legislative Franchise chaired by Alvarez.

Gadon also asked the High Court to issue a writ of prohibition that would direct Cayetano and Alvarez to recall their February 26 letter to Cordoba asking the latter to issue a provisional authority. Such would have reportedly allowed ABS-CBN to operate effective from May 4 until such time that the House of Representatives has made a decision on its application for Legislative Franchise.

Last Wednesday, the House leadership announced that it would take up the 11 bills renewing ABS-CBN’s franchise on March 10, a day before Congress adjourns for Lent.

“The NTC cannot usurp the power of Congress to grant or extend ABS-CBN’s Legislative Franchise. It is only Congress, which can extend ABS-CBN’s franchise.

This power cannot be passed on or delegated to an administrative agency, such as NTC, under the Executive branch,” Gadon argued.

The lawyer explained that under Article XII of the Constitution, Congress is tasked to grant, amend or repeal public franchises, such as radio, television and communications broadcasting systems. While the NTC’s functions are merely regulatory and supervisory.

“The supposed authority of the NTC to extend an existing broadcast franchise, or to issue a provisional permit to operate sans a valid franchise, is nowhere in the said mandate,” Gadon said.

The letter sent by the two legislators to Cordoba to grant a provisional authority to the network, according to Gadon, “is tantamount to extending the franchise of ABSCBN, through an undue delegation of powers.” Joel R. San Juan

THE QUICK BROWN FOX JU P14-B POGO-ASSOCIATED OVER THE LAZY DOG. THE TRANSACTIONS FOUND LAZY DOG SUSPICIOUS–AMLC CHIEF

By Bernadette D. Nicolas @BNicolasBM

& Butch Fernandez

A

@butchfBM

BOU T a qu a r ter of the P54-billion transactions linked to the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) industry were linked to “suspicious” activities, the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) revealed on Thursday.

In a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Hearing, AMLC Secretariat Executive Director Atty.

Mel Georgie B. Racela said this was part of the findings in their risk-assessment study on the industry.

“Our study revealed that P14 billion out of P54 billion are related to suspicious transactions,” Racela said at the hearing, citing data from 2017 to 2019.

Pressed by Senate Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon on whether these suspicious activities include the recently reported kidnap-for-ransom cases, Racela said this is not included in the list, but the activities they tracked entailed more of violations of the electronic commerce act, as well as drug trafficking.

In the same hearing, Racela also said the net inf low from POGO transactions only reached P7 billion or equivalent to 0.29 percent of the P18.6trillion economy.

“Less than one-third of one percent—that is what POGO generates? Is it worth the problems that we face?” Drilon said.

Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Chairman Richard J. Gordon said during the hearing that a total of 60 individuals brought in foreign currencies amounting to P633.029 million or P32.02 billion from September 2019 until Thursday, March 5, 2020.

The senator said these individuals mostly came from Hong Kong and Singapore, including the so-called Rodriguez Group as these countries “lack foreigncurrency controls.”

Gordon a lso named the members of the Rodriguez Group—one of the money couriers identified by the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

Gordon’s presentation showed information on the amount of foreign currency declared by the Rodriguezes every time they arrived at the country from either HongKong or Singapore.

The senator said a certain Elizabeth S. Rodriguez brought in three foreign currencies amounting to a total of $42.57 million in 58 transactions from September 26, 2019, to February 27, 2020.

John Joshua G. Rodriguez brought in a total of $36.27 million in 47 transactions from September 25, 2019, to March 1, 2020; while Janet S. Rodriguez made 38 transactions for cash amounting to $28.51 million from September 27, 2019, to February 27, 2020.

Simon John G. Rodriguez made four transactions from July 17, 2019, to September 26, 2019, amounting to $2.9 million; while Natasha S. Rodriguez had 16 transactions amounting to $12.03 million from September 5, 2019, to January 17, 2020.

Most of the Rodriguezes named by Gordon specified forex as the purpose for bringing in the huge amount of cash.

The AMLC could not confirm the information presented by Gordon immediately as all the foreign currency declaration forms that are gathered by the BOC are submitted to AMLC within 10 days after the month.

However, Racela said the top currencies for 2019 that were brought into the country were US dollars amounting to a total of $336 million, Japanese yen (¥2.749 billion), and Hong Kong dollars (HK$215 million).

Gordon also lamented the slow process of looking into “suspicious” influx of foreign currency, saying “this is bureaucracy at its worst form.”

He asked aloud, “Did AMLC sit down on this? Napakatagal naman [That’s too long]. You See “AMLC,” A2

Duterte awaits hard proof POGOs a root cause of crime in PHL–Panelo

By Samuel P. Medenilla

M

@sam_medenilla

ALACAÑANG on Thursd a y s a i d P r e s i d e nt Duterte is unlikely to suspend the operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) unless there is solid proof that it is the root cause of several illegal activities.

In a press briefing, Presidential spokesman Salvador S. Panelo said Duterte is still awaiting the results of the assessment by relevant government agencies of reports that POGOs have spawned a manyheaded monster before he considers temporarily suspending their operations.

“You know, when the President decides on something, he has the goods to back up his decision. If he has not received a comprehensive report on these illegal practices, then you cannot hurry him up [on the suspension],” Panelo said.

Duterte has yet to issue any statement indicating he will suspend or stop the operation of POGO despite the alleged illegal activities

that comes with it.

During the Senate investigations on POGOs, lawmakers blamed the sector for the rise of criminal activities in the country, including money laundering, prostitution, kidnapping, human trafficking and bribery.

One Senate prober, Sen. Panfilo Lacson, also cited reports that the POGO sector provided cover for members of China’s Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) to infiltrate the country. Panelo said the possible national security concern is now being validated by authorities.

He urged the Senate to share its information on POGO with the Executive department so it could come out with a better policy regime for POGOs. “If there is anything wrong with the system on POGO then we have to review it, evaluate it and then streamline it, improve it. And all the agencies involved must do their job, so that any corruption, any unlawful acts can be either neutralized or completely stopped,” Panelo said. “If you can stop all these illegal practices, then POGO is good,” he added.

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DOE fast-tracking release of ER 1-94 funds to LGUs

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

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HE Department of Energy (DOE) said it is expediting the release of funds identified under the Energy Regulation 1-94 program to host communities of energy generation firms and energy resource developers.

Under the program, energy generation companies and energy resource developers are required to directly provide their ER 1-94 benefits, equivalent to 1 centavo per kilowatthour (kWh) of total electricity sales, to their host communities.

Collected funds would then be used by local government units (LGUs) for socioeconomic development and provide more efficient utilization of the funds, which used to be released by the DOE. “Notable progress has been made, particularly in the administration of financial benefits to host communities. We will continue to ensure the speedy and sustained regulation; settlement; and full remittance of these funds, which are urgently needed

by LGUs to help address their respective needs,” Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said.

Cusi said the agency is continuously working to expedite the settlement of previously stranded ER 1-94 funds, and is aiming to complete remittances by June 2020.

Of the existing P6.4 billion, a total of P5.2 billion has already been earmarked by the DOE’s ER1-94 Reconciliation Team to the concerned LGUs and will be remitted upon their compliance with the requirements. Meanwhile, P432 million is currently being processed for immediate fund transfer.

The DOE has already remitted a total of P750 million to the host beneficiaries’ accounts nationwide.

The DOE’s ER1-94 Reconciliation Team, co-led by the Financial Services and the Electric Power Industry Management Bureau, is tasked to ensure the proper settlement and remittance of funds to

“Notable progress has been made, particularly in the administration of financial benefits to host communities.

We will continue to ensure the speedy and sustained regulation; settlement; and full remittance of these funds, which are urgently needed by LGUs to help address their respective needs.”— Cusi

the designated program beneficiaries.

Earlier, Energy Development Corp. (EDC) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with its beneficiaries in Ormoc City in compliance with DOE Circular 2018-08-0021 that requires energy generation companies and energy resource developers to directly provide their ER 1-94 benefits.

“While the exact amount is still being computed, EDC will be able to directly remit this benefit to its beneficiaries on a quarterly basis beginning this year once they have opened the trust accounts,” the company said.

Under Rule 29(A) of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001’s implementing rules and regulations, 25 percent of the P0.01/kWh of the total electricity sales shall be set aside for Development and Livelihood Fund (DLF) and another 25 percent shall be set aside for the Reforestation, Watershed Management, Health and Environment Enhancement Fund for use by the host region, province, city or municipality and its barangays, which are required to establish the corresponding trust accounts.

The MOA specifies that the host barangays are to submit their annual work program for the tangible projects where the funds will be used, as well as report on the status of the said projects at the end of each year.

Hot Air Balloon festival all set on March 6-8 amid virus scare

By Roderick L. Abad @rodrik_28 Contributor

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MID the global coronavirus scare, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, the most highly anticipated and longest-running sports aviation event in Asia, is still pushing through at the San Lazaro Leisure Park in Carmona, Cavite from March 6 to 8.

Capt. Joy Roa, director of the event, gave assurances that they are taking all precautions to ensure the safety of both the local and foreign delegates and spectators.

“We have thermal scanners as people coming in, and we have [The] Medical City on standby so that we can take care of everybody in case there’s any doubt if anyone is feverish, or whatever,” he told reporters at a media briefing for the upcoming festival and welcome cocktails with the Balloon Pilots held on Wednesday at Okada Manila in Parañaque City.

Part from the Philippines, the 23rd hot-air balloon festival will be participated in by representatives from Belgium, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Roa confirmed that Indonesian delegates have already canceled their participation to the event. He pointed out, though, that this is not because of the issue on COVID-19.

“There was a government policy and they are working with the Indonesian air force. So they had a difficult time getting the approval to travel,” he explained.

The three-day spectacle will

show nonstop flying exhibitions— paragliding, skydiving, helicopter, demonstrations and kite flying.

New activities include Paramotor Slalom Races and First Person View Drone Racing.

Festivalgoers can have a chance to experience a hot-air balloon ride, tandem paragliding or skydiving, and helicopter flights. They may also visit the fly markets, food booths and family entertainment areas.

Those considering a profession in the airline industry may attend the Aviation Career Seminars to be given by renowned aviators and industry practitioners.

“Aviation is a very difficult industry. It will depend on the economy of the country [or state of] the business [community]. It takes also very long to train somebody to be a competent pilot [or] a competent mechanic. If we don’t start them young, we don’t start them now, when the peak comes, we have nobody to depend on,” Roa said.

The event’s director also sees the festivity as a boon to both the aviation and tourism sectors since they expect to draw around 15,000 viewers a day and about 50 pilots from abroad.

“It brings in people to travel from the provinces to see this place. The reason why the airline is [at] a low era is because people are afraid to travel. They’re afraid of this virus issue,” he stressed. “But when there are activities [like this] happening, it is a tourism activity, and people like to go and see. So I’m sure it helps a little bit in the economy and with the airlines.”

Friday, March 6, 2020 A13

PHL manufacturing output shrinks 1.6 percent in January

FILE PHOTO BY NONIE REYES

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By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE country’s manufacturing output started the year with a contraction of 1.6 percent, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Based on the latest results of the Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries, the Volume of Production Index contracted from a growth of 4.2 percent in January 2019.

With the coronavirus disease

2019 (COVID-19) seriously impacting the travel and tourism sectors, the National Economic a nd De ve lopment Aut hor it y (Neda) said this could only worsen in the months ahead.

“Concerns over coronavirus dis-

ease affecting tourism and travel activities in the country could dampen production of consumer-related manufactures, such as food and beverages,” Neda said.

Apart from COVID-19, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said the recent eruption of Taal Volcano will also have a temporary impact on the manufacturing sector, given that the Calabarzon region accounts for about 31 percent of the country’s industry output. “ Thus, over the immediate term, [the] government will need to fast-track the rehabilitation of public infrastructure to ensure speedy recovery of firms, establishments and households located

in the area,” Pernia said.

In January, data showed the Value of Production Index also contracted 6.3 percent in January 2020 from a growth of 0.3 percent in the same period last year.

Despite the decline in manufacturing output and value, average capacity posted a slight increase to 84.4 percent in January 2020 compared to 84.3 percent last year.

In order to help the manufacturing sector, Pernia said there is a need to implement mitigating measures to temper the potential negative impact of COVID-19 on the manufacturing industry.

Pernia added that as the epidemic scare lingers, output of firms that produce intermediate goods to overseas market will also be affected.

The Neda chief also cited a need to map out the entire value chains across primary, secondary and tertiary players in the economy.

This, Pernia said, will allow government to know where critical parts are sourced, identify alternative market sources, and beef up inventory capacity to insulate against vulnerabilities.

“Government needs to work closely with the industry in crafting and implementing strategies to effectively mitigate the possible impacts of COVID-19 on production,” Pernia said.

“To help the manufacturing industry become more competitive and resilient, relevant government agencies need to swiftly implement measures that would streamline processes, facilitate trade and reduce transactions costs,” he added.

Pernia also said there is a need to reinforce business continuity plans. Government support will be needed for facilitating partnerships between micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and large domestic and/or foreign enterprises.

He said this will help in leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies to enable greater resilience of firms and MSMEs amid the challenges posed by COVID-19.

ALLOTS P244-MILLION EMERGENCY NEA tasks deputy G.S.I.S. LOANS FOR TYPHOON URSULA VICTIMS administrator to supervise Masbate S power cooperative

By Bernadette D. Nicolas @BNicolasBM

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HE National Electrification Administration (NEA) has appointed its deputy administrator for legal services to supervise the management and operations of the Masbate Electric Cooperative Inc. (Maselco).

NEA Administrator Edgardo Masongsong, who issued Office Order 2020-044 dated February 24, 2020, designated Rossan Rosero-Lee as the project supervisor of Maselco.

“In the exigency of the service and pursuant to Sections 4(e) and 5(a) of PD 269 as amended by Republic Act 10531, Deputy Administrator Rossan Rosero-Lee is hereby designated as Project Supervisor of Maselco in addition to her functions as deputy administrator for legal services, effective immediately,” the order stated.

Rosero-Lee is tasked to oversee the management and operations of Maselco and perform the functions of a regular board in the absence of the board of directors.

Masongsong added that the deputy administrator is also mandated to countersign checks, withdrawal slips and other banking transactions, as well as perform other tasks that may be assigned by the NEA for the purpose of operational efficiency.

Rosero-Lee replaced Romeo Acuesta, who was designated last year as Maselco’s project supervisor and acting general manager (AGM).

NEA said Acuesta remains the AGM of the electric cooperative. He will lead the day-to-day operations of Maselco and ensure the efficient delivery of electric service to consumers.

He is also authorized to review financial, institutional and technical reports, including action plans for operational improvement, as well as exercise powers to hire, transfer, discipline and terminate personnel of the electric cooperative.

Earlier, Maselco was placed under NEA management in 2017 due to the power distribution utility’s failure to settle its overdue obligations to DMCI Masbate Power Corp. Lenie Lectura

TATE-RUN Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) allotted P244 million for an emergency facility for members and pensioners affected by Typhoon Ursula in Eastern Samar.

In a statement on Thursday, the state pension fund said a P20,000 emergency loan may be availed of by a total of 12,197 active members working or residing in the province as well as old-age and disability pensioners until March 13, 2020. However, this does not include those in Guiuan, since the same loan window was already opened earlier in the area, which ran from January 21 to February 19, 2020.

Loan proceeds are electronically credited to the borrower’s GSIS electronic card or unified multi-purpose ID (UMID) card.

The emergency loan is payable in 36 equal monthly installments at 6-percent interest rate computed in advance. It is covered by a loan redemption insurance, which deems the loan fully paid in case of the borrower’s demise, provided that loan repayment is up to date.

Renewal of a previous emergency loan that is being amortized is allowed only if the current emergency loan account is up to date. The outstanding emergency loan balance of the previous loan, including penalties, if any, shall be deducted from the proceeds of the new loan.

For active members to be qualified for the loan, they must be working or residing in Eastern Samar, and they must have also updated their premium payments within the last six months prior to application and they must also have no unpaid loans for more than six months.

They should not be on leave of absence without pay and have no pending administrative case or criminal charge.

Likewise, they should have a minimum net take-home pay of P5,000 after monthly premium contributions and loan amortizations have been deducted.

Old-age and disability pensioners may apply for the loan if they are residents of the calamity area and their resulting net monthly pension after loan availment is at least 25 percent of their basic monthly pension, according to GSIS. Pensioners should also personally apply for the loan. Members may apply through the GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System (GWAPS) kiosk or over the counter in any GSIS office.

GWAPS kiosks are located in all GSIS branch and extension offices; provincial capitols; city halls; selected municipal offices; large government agencies, such as the Department of Education; Robinsons Malls; and selected SM City branches in North Edsa, Manila, Pampanga, Cebu, SM Aura in Taguig, SM Southmall in Las Piñas, and SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

BusinessMirror

A14 Friday, March 6, 2020 Republic of the Philippines

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT Regional Office No. IV-A 4th Flr. Andenson Bldg. II, Brgy. Parian, Calamba City Telefax No.: (049) 545-7362

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. YUANYUAN ZHU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. XIAOCHEN XU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WENWEI LYU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. LU RA / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. PHAM THI LAN / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. MYIN KYU / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

44

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. PHAN VAN HIEP / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. PHOO PWINT SU WAI / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

March 06, 2020

NOTICE OF FILING OF APPLICATION FOR ALIEN EMPLOYMENT PERMIT (AEP) Notice is hereby given that the following employers have filed with this Regional Office application/s for Alien Employment Permit/s.

Name and Address of Company/Employer

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position/s

www.businessmirror.com.ph

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHICHAO CHENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIAN SONG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

3

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. NINGPEI YANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

4

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YUANZHI ZHU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

5

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WENHAO JIANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. SHANYAN YAN / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

6

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. HOULIN HU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

47

Ms. YINGYU GU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Ms. THIN THIN NWE / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

7

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHUHANG ZHOU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

48

8

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. LIEW YEN FUNG / Malaysian

Malaysian Customer Service Representative

9

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. XIAOBO ZHU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

49

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. LUONG THI GIANG / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. KUN DONG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

50

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. CHIENG TIEN DAT / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

11

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIAJIA LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

51

Mr. KUN RAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Ms. HUAN LU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

13

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WENZHONG WU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

52

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIANJUN CHEN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

14

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. GUOLIANG HOU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

53

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. LEI HE / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

15

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. ZEZHI LUO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

54

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. GANG PAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

16

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. MINGYONG MAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

55

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SANWEN QI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. HEYONG ZHU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

56

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

KE WEI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. LEE LAY GUAT / Malaysian

Malaysian Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. KE XU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHIQIN ZHONG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

58

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. QINGHUA ZHENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

59

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WEIQIANG ZHAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. ZHONGHUA XU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. NGUYEN HUU DUNG / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. NGO TRUNG HIEU / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

63

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. KAUNG NYEIN / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

64

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. TINGTING LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

65

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. CHIYE HE / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YUHAO LEI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

67

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. DANFENG ZHAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

68

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. YANBO ZHENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

69

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. XIAOHUI YANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

70

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. HAIYANG WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YANG CHEN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. ZHIJIE SUN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. HAOLONG SUN / Chinese

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. AUNG KYAW HTWE / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

22

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. TE KIM THANH / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

23

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. XIAOLU LIN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. ZIHAO HU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JUNPING DANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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26

27

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Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. ZEHAO REN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIE WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. YA ZHANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. HOANG HAI YEN / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. ZHANQIANG JIN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WEI CHEN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

32

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIANING ZHANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

73

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. ZHIWEN WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

33

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. NING HE / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

74

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. TIANYUAN XU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

34

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WEI XU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

75

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. YINGLI BAI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

35

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. QINGCAI MENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

76

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. DAOJUN LIU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

36

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. JINFENG JIANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. QIUJIN WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

37

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. LINGJUN YUE / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

78

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YADONG XIN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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BusinessMirror

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Name and Address of Company/Employer

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position/s

Name and Address of Company/Employer

Friday, March 6, 2020 A15

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position/s

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIANCONG ZHU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. LIYI HUANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

80

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. GUOHUA ZHAI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

118

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHUAI LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

81

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. TRAN DUC TRUONG / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

119

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. JIAJIE YAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

120

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIE LIAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. KYAR TIE LE / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

121

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. KYAW THU / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. TRAN THI THUY TRANG / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

122

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. AUNG KYAW ZAW / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. KHAING KHIN AYE / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. HONGQUAN WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JUNHUA LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

125

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YANHUA XIONG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. ZONGYING CHEN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

127

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YINGQIANG GU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. DAJIANG XU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

129

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. FEI WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

85

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. YINLI LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. XUAN XIAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

87

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. LEI LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

88

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIE TIAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

89

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. LIANGGUANG LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YANG ZHOU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Mr. LIUHE LUN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. NANYU PENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Mr. GENMING SU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YANG YANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. ZIHAO LIU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

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MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WENWU LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

135

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. DONGYING DENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

90

91

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

92

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIAXING SUI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

93

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. LIJUAN HAO / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

94

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. LEI WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

136

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. LEI WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

95

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. HUI XIA / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

137

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHUAI YANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

96

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SUNHUA WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

138

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHIBO LIU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

97

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. JIAXIN SONG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

139

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. LAIZHI YANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

98

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. HE WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

140

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHIZHENG LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

99

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. MENGQI QI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

141

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. MIN XIANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

100

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. TINGTING LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

142

Mr. YOUJING ZHENG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

101

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. NGUYEN THI QUYNH TRAM / Vietnamese

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

143

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. LEI ZHU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

102

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. MYAT SAI SEING / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

144

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SENG SAI LAO / Burmese

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. SHUJUAN WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 104 Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. VAN THAO PHAM / Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 145 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. XIONGJUN XU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 105 Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. SHIPENG LI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 146 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. JIABIN ZHANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 106 Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. YU HUANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 147 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. JIANWEI CHEN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 107 Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. XIN ZHANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 148 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. XIANGDENG LIN /

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 108 Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. QINSHENG CAI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 149 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. JIAOMEI CHEN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

103

109

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. BING HAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 150 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. XIAOQIONG QIU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

110

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. WENJIAN FU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 151 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. YI LIANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

111

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. JIELONG SHEN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Ms. QINGLING YUAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

112

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. JUAN LAI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 152 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. XIAOQING DAI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

113

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. ZAICHUAN WANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 153 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Mr. ZHENGPEI LAI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Mr. HAIHONG RUAN / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

114

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 154 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 115 Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. DANDAN BAI / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 155 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. XIONGPING YOU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 116 Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

Ms. HAIYAN YANG / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 156 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. DEZHENG LIU / Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

BusinessMirror

A16 Friday, March 6, 2020

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SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 157 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

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SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 158 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

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SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 194 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YUYONG HU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Mr. ZHILIANG CHEN / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 195 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. MING LI / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 159 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. MENG ZHANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 196 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. FANLONG MENG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 160 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. XI WANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 197 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. MENGEN XING / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 161 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. KUN YANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 198 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. GUANG WEI / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 162 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YAJUN ZHENG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 199 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. XINQI LIU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 163 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. HAOHONG LI / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 200 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. KUI ZHANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 164 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. GUIYU ZHANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 201 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. CHUNZHU XIAO / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 165 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YONGLIANG MEI / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 202 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. DONG YANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 166 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. LEI ZHANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 203 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. HAO DAI / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 167 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. DOUJIANNAN LUO / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 204 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. XIANHUI LAI / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 168 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. GUOHUA HUANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 205 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. JIAHUI LIN / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 169 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. ZENING WANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 206 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. SHISHU XIAO / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 170 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. TAN LIU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 207 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YIRONG MO / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 171 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YUEHUA QIU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 208 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. DELIANG ZHANG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 172 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. QIUYUN TAN / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Mr. ZHENG LIU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 173 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 209 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YINGCHI YU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 174 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. BO ZENG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Mr. BINGQIAN FAN / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 210 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 175 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. FUMING LUO / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 211 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YAO YAO / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 176 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. HUANG YI / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 212 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YONG MU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 177 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. DONG LU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 213 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. JIAN QIN / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 178 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. CHUNJIAN LIU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

PHIL-NIPPON TECHNICAL 214 COLLEGE INC. Brgy. Batino, Calamba City, Laguna

Mr. MAKOTO KURAUCHI / Japanese

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 179 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. LIHUA DENG / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENT 215 TECH. PHILS. CO. Tambo, Parañaque, Metro Manila

Mr. DAISUKE KAWABE / Japanese

Technical Advisor

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 180 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. JINLIN WU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 181 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. CHIHARU YOSHIDA / Japanese

Mr. PING RAN / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

NIDEC PHILIPPINES CORPORATION 216 SEZ, Laguna Technopark, Biñan City, Laguna

Assistant ManagerProduction Control Division

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 182 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. QINGLIANG LU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

CAL-COMP PRECISION (PHILIPPINES), INC. 217 FPIP II-SEZ, Sta. Anastacia, Santo Tomas, Batangas

Mr. ONG TOUN WEI / Malaysian

NPI Assistant Manager

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 183 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. XIN JIN / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

WORLD OF OPTICS 218 Unit A MCG Bldg. KM. 17 Aguinaldo Highway, Bacoor, Cavite

Ms. BINEETA DAS / Indian

Training Manager PSD

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 184 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. XIAOQIANG LUO / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

219

Mr. FLAVIO FRANCHI / Brazilian

Head of Technical Operations Philippines

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 185 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. GUO ZHOU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 186 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. XIAOJIAO WEI / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 187 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. QIANG HOU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 188 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. PING LUO / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 189 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Ms. ZHOU XU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 190 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. GUORUI LU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 191 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. ZHENG ZHU / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 192 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. HONGBIN CHEN / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

SMART WIN TECHNOLOGY, INC. 193 4-12F Southwoods Tower 2, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. YONGSHENG CHEN / Chinese

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

ENTEL HK PHILIPPINES LTI Annex, Biñan City, Laguna

ASIA SCOPRO OPTICS CO., INC. 220 CIP I, Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna

General Manager

Mr. IAN CHESHIRE / British

Manufacturing Manager

PAOYI MANUFACTURING INCORPORATED 222 LTC-SEZ, Brgy. Santiago, Malvar, Batangas

Ms. HAIQING TANG / Chinese

Buffing Department Supervisor

DENSO PHILIPPINES CORPORATION 223 CIP I, Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna

Mr. NAOKI FUJITA / Japanese

General ManagerBusiness Planning Department

FURUKAWA AUTOMOTIVE 224 SYSTEMS LIMA PHILIPPINES INC. LTC, Lipa City, Batangas

Mr. JIRO SANO / Japanese

221

ENTEL HK PHILIPPINES LTI Annex, Biñan City, Laguna

Mr. CHING-SHAN HUANG / Taiwanese

Japanese Adviser III

Equipment Deputy Department Manager

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First Gen unit seeks DOE nod C to build LNG terminal in May

Friday, March 6, 2020

B1

DNL to hike capex to ₧3 billion

F

By Lenie Lectura

@llectura

GEN LNG Corp. (FGEN LNG) is seeking the Department of Energy’s (DOE) approval to allow it to start the construction of its planned liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal.

The wholly owned subsidiary of Lopez-led First Gen Corp. (First Gen) filed Thursday an application for a Permit to Construct, Expand, Rehabilitate and Modify (PCERM) an Interim Offshore LNG Terminal within the First Gen Clean Energy Complex in Batangas City.

The permit, when issued, will allow the company to modify an existing liquid fuel jetty that will enable it to become multiple-use, allowing the receipt of large and small-scale LNG vessels, as well as liquid fuel vessels, and build an adjunct onshore gas receiving facility.

“FGEN LNG anticipates that, if the PCERM is granted by the DOE, it will be able to commence construction as early as May of this year, in order to be able to receive LNG as early as the third quarter of 2022,” it said.

The plan is to modify First Gen’s existing jetty to enable LNG to be brought in via a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) on an interim basis and, thus, accelerate FGEN LNG’s ability to introduce LNG to the Philippines.

An FSRU is an LNG storage ship that has an onboard regasification

plant capable of returning LNG back into a gaseous state.

“FGEN LNG believes that the Project, and the early entry of LNG, will play a critical role in ensuring the energy security of the Luzon Grid and the Philippines, particularly as the indigenous Malampaya gas resource is expected to be less reliable in producing and providing sufficient fuel supply for the country’s existing gas-fired power plants, and even less so for additional gas-fired power plants,” it said.

Also, First Gen’s LNG project will serve the natural gas requirements of existing and future gasfired power plants of third parties and FGEN LNG affiliates. “The entry of LNG will encourage new gas-fired power plant developments, as well as industrial and transport industries to consider it as a replacement to more costly and polluting fuels,” it said.

First Gen already operates four gas-fed power plants with an aggregate capacity of about 2,000 megawatts. These are the

1,000-MW Santa Rita, 500-MW San Lorenzo, 414-MW San Gabriel and 97-MW Avion.

The gas contracts inked between the Malampaya consortium and gas power plants will expire in 2021. Thus, gas plants must look for other sources before their contract expires.

FGEN LNG’s application is required by the Philippine Downstream Natural Gas Regulation (PDNGR), and in compliance with the conditions of the notice to proceed granted by the DOE in March 2019.

The planned LNG Terminal has been declared as an Energy Project of National Significance, under Executive Order 30, by the Energy Investment Coordinating Council through the DOE. The company has completed predevelopment work to make the site construction-ready. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in May last year at the First Gen Clean Energy Complex in barangays Santa Clara, Santa Rita Aplaya and Bolbok, Batangas City.

HEMICAL firm D & L Industries Inc. (DNL) on Thursday said it is doubling its capital expenditures (capex) this year to about P3 billion, from P1.55 billion in 2019.

DNL President Alvin D. Lao said the capex will be spent mainly for its ongoing P8-billion plant in Batangas.

It may have the same amount of capex through 2021 as it completes its plant.

“As a company, we continue to focus on initiatives that will allow us to grow the business while building resilience. The construction of our next generation expansion facilities, which will be the foundation of our next leg of growth, is on-track and set to be operational by the second half of 2021,” he said.

“We continue to believe in the long-term prospects of the business and we see the current sell-off in the stock as a limited window of opportunity for shareholders who, like us, seek long-term value,” he added.

The company said it is expecting its businesses to recover this year on the back of stronger macroeconomic fundamentals, such as the early passage of the 2020 budget, further interest rate cuts and softer inflation outlook.

However, the firm faces some uncertainties due to the 2019 novel coronavirus, though Lao maintained

that it will have a net benefit since it can earn the business that it will lose from China to somewhere else.

Of all its imports of raw material, around 10 percent to 15 percent come from China, but Lao said the company can find other suppliers for these items.

“So some of our customers who have been buying from our competitors have turned to us and we are gaining some market share,” he said.

Lao said the company remains wary of possible supply-chain disruptions, negative consumer sentiment and port congestion.

The company reported a recurring income of P2.6 billion for 2019, 18 percent lower than the previous year’s P3.18 billion.

“The company faced a tough year in 2019, brought on by a confluence of external factors,” Lao said.

Sales fell 16 percent to P22.38 billion from the previous year’s P26.54 billion. Lao said there are emerging signs of recovery starting the third quarter of 2019 for their food and aerosols businesses, and these are seen to continue in 2020. DNL is a Filipino company engaged in product customization and specialization.

It manufactures various products, ranging from food ingredients, chemicals for personal and home care use, raw materials for plastic, and aerosol products. VG Cabuag

B2

Companies BusinessMirror

Friday, March 6., 2020

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

March 5, 2020

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

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK PHILTRUST RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK COL FINANCIAL FIRST ABACUS MEDCO HLDG MANULIFE NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH SUN LIFE

43.2 141 77 24.9 10.7 56 11.66 28.15 50.35 110.3 19.88 154 57.45 17.74 0.53 0.375 750 0.71 155 1730

50.95 141.4 77.7 24.95 10.9 56.1 11.98 28.2 51.4 125 19.9 154.3 57.95 18 0.63 0.395 829.5 0.74 165 1839

51 137.8 78.45 24.75 11.18 56.1 11.8 28.2 50.35 110.3 19.82 158 57.45 17.9 0.63 0.38 752.5 0.7 155 1750

51 142.2 78.95 24.9 11.18 56.75 11.8 28.35 51.4 110.3 19.9 159 57.5 17.9 0.63 0.395 752.5 0.73 165 1750

51 137 75.75 24.75 10.68 55.5 11.5 28.1 50 110.3 19.82 154 57.45 17.8 0.63 0.38 752 0.7 152.9 1721

51 141 77 24.9 10.7 56 11.5 28.2 51.4 110.3 19.9 154 57.45 17.8 0.63 0.395 752 0.7 153.1 1721

20 1466110 1718180 43800 246100 1248130 12000 482600 360 10 1100 423080 23360 36300 3000 30000 180 38000 5200 25

1020 206405159 132346235.5 1088210 2653952 69936649.5 139100 13586935 18143.5 1103 21866 65349543 1342035.5 646444 1890 11550 135385 26900 798542 43605

66852138 -57401458.5 -382665 -2104218 -10991653.5 5083145 -13929.9998 -46022876 -900819.5 -626841.9998 5600 -4585 -

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY 2.04 2.05 2.08 2.18 2.04 2.04 4369000 9106320 ABOITIZ POWER 27.4 27.5 28.3 28.3 27.3 27.4 2480700 68362925 BASIC ENERGY 0.2 0.208 0.2 0.208 0.2 0.208 180000 36670 FIRST GEN 16.44 16.5 17.5 17.5 16.36 16.44 4429900 73635212 FIRST PHIL HLDG 61.75 61.9 61.6 62.05 61.6 61.75 8390 518779 MERALCO 266.8 267 269 269.8 265 267 288340 77001880 MANILA WATER 11.98 12 11.94 12.08 11.94 12 2058900 24715216 PETRON 3.37 3.38 3.38 3.4 3.37 3.38 1075000 3628450 PETROENERGY 3.51 3.73 3.75 3.75 3.74 3.74 6000 22470 PHX PETROLEUM 10.22 10.5 10.18 10.5 10.18 10.5 164000 1717896 PILIPINAS SHELL 26.6 26.9 26.6 27 26.35 26.6 103000 2742380 SPC POWER 8.88 8.9 8.76 8.98 8.76 8.9 20200 179872 AGRINURTURE 6.87 7.11 6.99 7.19 6.86 7.11 2157500 15334881 AXELUM 2.4 2.41 2.38 2.41 2.3 2.4 2749000 6,485,880( CNTRL AZUCARERA 14.42 15.86 15.8 15.9 15.8 15.9 2000 31660 CENTURY FOOD 14.3 14.4 14.22 14.34 14.22 14.3 458400 6548614 DEL MONTE 4 4.4 4 4.2 4 4.2 12000 50000 DNL INDUS 7.04 7.05 7.45 7.5 7.05 7.05 1758000 12517818 EMPERADOR 8.09 8.1 8.12 8.12 8.09 8.09 914400 7402906 SMC FOODANDBEV 70.3 70.5 70.2 71.6 70.2 70.5 300210 21159497 ALLIANCE SELECT 0.62 0.63 0.64 0.64 0.62 0.63 130000 81830 FRUITAS HLDG 1.7 1.71 1.68 1.75 1.67 1.71 19586000 33685550 GINEBRA 33 35.5 36.25 36.25 36 36 900 32575 JOLLIBEE 182.4 184 175 184 171.3 184 1144230 207505372 MACAY HLDG 6.12 6.49 6.14 6.49 6.12 6.49 2600 16364 MAXS GROUP 8.09 8.15 8.1 8.36 8.09 8.09 210900 1720299 MG HLDG 0.14 0.142 0.142 0.142 0.142 0.142 280000 39760 PEPSI COLA 1.82 1.84 1.82 1.84 1.81 1.82 174000 317740 SHAKEYS PIZZA 7.86 7.95 8 8.06 7.84 7.95 260600 2068512 ROXAS AND CO 1.5 1.54 1.47 1.57 1.47 1.54 391000 584300 RFM CORP 4.95 5 4.95 5 4.95 5 6100 30394 SWIFT FOODS 0.117 0.12 0.12 0.12 0.117 0.117 30000 3540 UNIV ROBINA 132.3 133.5 133 135 131.7 132.3 1435730 190310032 VITARICH 1.13 1.14 1.1 1.17 1.1 1.14 6112000 6990660 CEMEX HLDG 1.26 1.27 1.28 1.29 1.25 1.27 5007000 6354580 EAGLE CEMENT 10.18 10.2 10.22 10.68 10.18 10.18 479100 4883672 EEI CORP 7.75 8 7.73 8.39 7.7 7.75 167200 1334536 HOLCIM 13.32 13.36 13.1 13.38 13.1 13.36 2805400 37267920 MEGAWIDE 11.78 11.9 12.14 12.4 11.72 11.9 1367200 16356066 PHINMA 9.43 9.5 9.75 9.8 9.4 9.49 39600 377020 TKC METALS 0.84 0.88 0.86 0.88 0.83 0.88 13000 11140 VULCAN INDL 0.94 0.96 0.95 0.96 0.93 0.96 474000 445920 CHEMPHIL 171.1 218 218 218 218 218 210 45780 EUROMED 3.65 3.66 3.9 4.06 3.51 3.65 10327000 38700500 LMG CHEMICALS 4.9 5 4.94 5 4.71 5 74300 367966 MABUHAY VINYL 3.22 3.3 3.39 3.4 3.3 3.31 26000 87100 GREENERGY 1.22 1.25 1.26 1.27 1.23 1.23 1584000 1960600 INTEGRATED MICR 4.72 4.74 4.61 4.74 4.48 4.72 673000 3162940 IONICS 1.11 1.13 1.13 1.13 1.13 1.13 60000 67800 SFA SEMICON 1 1.02 1 1.04 0.99 1 357000 360330 CIRTEK HLDG 7.05 7.08 7 7.42 6.82 7.08 1042400 7394656

-429430 -17986795 -46592092 -272153 -4257964 -9759206 933670 -1185105 4435 -641473 1,049,660.0003) 2264160 -3275515 104143.9997 -959630.5 -923320 21750 67058101 -16675 -39759.9998 -29110 -1182588 -19500 -1200 -35925130 1319439.9997 -1738510 213254 1128844 10341442 -12914040 -960 221220 -6680 28520 536430 10000 12511

HOLDING & FRIMS ABACORE CAPITAL 0.7 0.71 0.69 0.71 0.67 0.7 3928000 2720670 ASIABEST GROUP 9.61 9.7 9.66 9.75 9.62 9.62 12700 122546 AYALA CORP 675 677 676 684.5 670.5 677 222060 150509875 ABOITIZ EQUITY 45.6 45.95 45.95 46.05 44.9 45.95 277500 12728170 ALLIANCE GLOBAL 9.93 9.95 9.93 10.1 9.86 9.93 10440200 103448802 AYALA LAND LOG 2.11 2.18 2.08 2.27 2.08 2.11 782000 1706030 ANSCOR 6.12 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 500 3190 ATN HLDG A 0.88 0.9 0.89 0.9 0.88 0.9 794000 706110 ATN HLDG B 0.88 0.93 0.9 0.93 0.9 0.93 311000 285370 COSCO CAPITAL 6.1 6.19 6.12 6.24 6.1 6.19 87200 540854 DMCI HLDG 5.29 5.31 5.36 5.39 5.18 5.29 12017000 63351215 FORUM PACIFIC 0.218 0.235 0.216 0.216 0.216 0.216 10000 2160 GT CAPITAL 722 725 735 748 720.5 722 72260 52386605 HOUSE OF INV 4.51 4.58 4.59 4.59 4.59 4.59 5000 22950 JG SUMMIT 69.9 71.25 69.95 71.25 69.1 71.25 780630 55158684.5 JOLLIVILLE HLDG 5.89 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.39 100 639 LODESTAR 0.465 0.47 0.455 0.465 0.45 0.465 40000 18300 LOPEZ HLDG 3.7 3.74 3.71 3.73 3.7 3.7 1220000 4532290 LT GROUP 8.8 8.99 9.34 9.35 8.76 8.8 1539000 13684070 MABUHAY HLDG 0.57 0.6 0.57 0.6 0.57 0.6 2000 1170 METRO PAC INV 3.44 3.45 3.48 3.5 3.39 3.44 51475000 177293770 PRIME MEDIA 1.01 1.04 1.06 1.06 1.02 1.02 23000 23620 SOLID GROUP 0.98 1.08 0.98 1 0.98 0.98 20000 19670 SYNERGY GRID 155 175 175 175 175 175 110 19250 SM INVESTMENTS 950 955 954.5 972 948.5 950 531700 509440440 SAN MIGUEL CORP 126 126.5 126.5 127.5 125.7 126 140390 17721513 SOC RESOURCES 0.8 0.81 0.77 0.8 0.77 0.8 240000 188970 SEAFRONT RES 2 2.38 2 2 2 2 4000 8000 TOP FRONTIER 148.9 158 135 156 135 156 11800 1751233 WELLEX INDUS 0.217 0.228 0.228 0.228 0.211 0.228 400000 91020 ZEUS HLDG 0.166 0.169 0.17 0.17 0.165 0.169 3060000 510540

29378640 7019040 30883663.9993 6100 225920 242957 -36608737 -14724970 -22950 16438631.5 639 -2218750 -7061434 56254320 -10983930 -3085581 -823319 -

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.72 0.73 0.72 0.74 0.71 0.72 836000 602440 AYALA LAND 40.4 40.45 40.75 40.85 40.25 40.4 5641200 228590430 ARANETA PROP 1.35 1.4 1.35 1.36 1.35 1.35 39000 52720 BELLE CORP 1.6 1.61 1.6 1.61 1.59 1.6 1068000 1711360 A BROWN 0.87 0.88 0.75 0.9 0.75 0.88 74198000 63605620 CITYLAND DEVT 0.77 0.79 0.79 0.79 0.79 0.79 1000 790 CROWN EQUITIES 0.163 0.177 0.166 0.166 0.163 0.163 230000 38090 CEB LANDMASTERS 4.5 4.55 4.55 4.55 4.5 4.55 290000 1317810 CENTURY PROP 0.49 0.5 0.49 0.5 0.49 0.5 3980000 1950900 CYBER BAY 0.325 0.335 0.32 0.32 0.32 0.32 40000 12800 DOUBLEDRAGON 17.18 17.2 16.9 17.2 16.9 17.2 118500 2028544 DM WENCESLAO 8.5 8.6 8.35 8.63 8.35 8.6 27100 228695 EMPIRE EAST 0.37 0.38 0.37 0.37 0.37 0.37 20000 7400 FILINVEST LAND 1.25 1.26 1.28 1.28 1.25 1.25 3977000 5010790 GLOBAL ESTATE 0.98 1 0.98 1 0.97 1 182000 179810 8990 HLDG 14.18 14.2 14.2 14.2 14.18 14.18 620000 8801600 PHIL INFRADEV 0.94 0.95 0.93 0.95 0.92 0.95 872000 810140 CITY AND LAND 0.72 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 0.75 1000 750 MEGAWORLD 3.46 3.47 3.53 3.59 3.44 3.46 26322000 91059970 MRC ALLIED 0.183 0.184 0.181 0.187 0.18 0.184 3350000 615900 PHIL ESTATES 0.405 0.43 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 10000 4000 PRIMEX CORP 2.05 2.06 2.06 2.09 2.05 2.06 2079000 4262660 ROBINSONS LAND 24.1 24.2 24.5 24.5 23.85 24.1 1572900 37895795 PHIL REALTY 0.335 0.34 0.325 0.34 0.325 0.34 1980000 658800 ROCKWELL 1.96 1.97 1.96 1.97 1.96 1.97 40000 78750 SHANG PROP 3.02 3.07 3.02 3.02 3.02 3.02 47000 141940 STA LUCIA LAND 2.33 2.35 2.35 2.35 2.35 2.35 5000 11750 SM PRIME HLDG 39.45 39.5 39.5 39.5 39.2 39.5 29866600 1,174,556,7559 VISTAMALLS 4.9 5.05 4.91 5.14 4.91 5.05 35600 177647 SUNTRUST HOME 1.67 1.68 1.64 1.7 1.61 1.68 4579000 7692060 VISTA LAND 6.46 6.49 6.77 6.77 6.44 6.49 2416700 15703443

12105415 -39150 -35000 -114150 -4550 -60530 -47382 -3178990 5640 29317920 11132700 81540 69492324.9998 -340000 -5133262

SERVICES ABS CBN 21.85 21.95 22.8 23 21.7 21.95 558300 12452755 GMA NETWORK 5.25 5.3 5.3 5.32 5.24 5.25 263900 1391877 MANILA BULLETIN 0.45 0.46 0.49 0.49 0.445 0.45 1650000 750700 MLA BRDCASTING 10.54 11.48 10.54 11.48 10.54 11.48 600 6418 GLOBE TELECOM 1841 1866 1850 1889 1841 1841 45250 84187330 PLDT 1041 1043 1015 1059 1002 1043 282670 294289040 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.045 0.046 0.046 0.046 0.045 0.046 700000 32000 DFNN INC 3.43 3.99 3.99 3.99 3.99 3.99 3000 11970 IMPERIAL 1.19 1.56 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.3 10000 13000 ISLAND INFO 0.09 0.094 0.094 0.095 0.09 0.09 1160000 107150 ISM COMM 1.7 1.71 1.75 1.77 1.67 1.71 26519000 45247510 NOW CORP 1.96 1.98 2 2.01 1.96 1.96 494000 978320 TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.207 0.21 0.205 0.21 0.205 0.21 910000 189890 PHILWEB 2.3 2.34 2.35 2.37 2.29 2.3 591000 1375860 2GO GROUP 7.21 7.3 7.2 7.35 7.2 7.21 9700 70003 ASIAN TERMINALS 17.5 18.48 17.5 17.5 17.5 17.5 10000 175000 CHELSEA 3.5 3.52 3.4 3.58 3.4 3.52 183000 644560 CEBU AIR 74.9 74.95 74.75 75.65 74.75 74.95 17660 1326958.5 INTL CONTAINER 105.1 105.2 107 109 104.1 105.1 2457610 259522021 LBC EXPRESS 12.4 12.58 12.38 12.4 12.36 12.4 18300 226738 MACROASIA 8.05 8.08 8.15 8.26 8.06 8.08 787900 6382213 METROALLIANCE A 2.8 2.82 2.76 2.99 2.54 2.8 19407000 53755760 METROALLIANCE B 2.76 2.77 2.88 3.09 2.57 2.76 314000 884120 PAL HLDG 6.7 6.8 6.8 6.8 6.7 6.8 4900 33310 HARBOR STAR 1.02 1.03 0.99 1.02 0.98 1.02 333000 330290 ACESITE HOTEL 1.4 1.43 1.43 1.43 1.4 1.4 3000 4230 BOULEVARD HLDG 0.037 0.038 0.037 0.039 0.037 0.037 5800000 217700 WATERFRONT 0.55 0.57 0.55 0.58 0.55 0.58 57000 32200 IPEOPLE 7.25 8.17 7.21 8.17 7.21 8.17 2200 16054 STI HLDG 0.52 0.54 0.53 0.53 0.52 0.52 2480000 1309350 BERJAYA 2.47 2.5 2.45 2.5 2.44 2.47 72000 177830 BLOOMBERRY 7.32 7.34 7.89 8 7.15 7.32 10505600 76845953 LEISURE AND RES 1.88 1.9 1.95 1.95 1.87 1.88 58000 108820 MANILA JOCKEY 2.85 2.93 2.85 2.85 2.85 2.85 17000 48450 PREMIUM LEISURE 0.465 0.47 0.475 0.475 0.465 0.47 8660000 4056400 ALLHOME 9.97 9.98 9.98 9.98 9.82 9.98 962100 9596863 METRO RETAIL 1.57 1.58 1.58 1.6 1.56 1.57 1333000 2103440 PUREGOLD 35.5 36 35.5 36.8 35.35 35.5 4259400 151300395 ROBINSONS RTL 61.4 61.5 64.55 64.55 61.5 61.5 246110 15258777 PHIL SEVEN CORP 142 154 155 155 152 153 19550 2988558 SSI GROUP 1.78 1.79 1.8 1.86 1.77 1.79 1774000 3189880 WILCON DEPOT 18.08 18.12 18.08 18.12 18.04 18.08 3419500 61,886,116( APC GROUP 0.41 0.42 0.4 0.42 0.4 0.42 4000000 1630350 EASYCALL 6.72 6.99 7 7 6.61 6.71 6000 40465 GOLDEN BRIA 404 414 404 429.8 403.2 414 80660 33608020 PAXYS 2.66 2.93 2.67 2.94 2.67 2.94 7000 19050 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.275 0.28 0.28 0.285 0.27 0.28 5570000 1549600 SBS PHIL CORP 8.31 8.9 8.6 8.9 8.6 8.9 3200 27970

49837095 -55379885 993870 9850 50140 -40050 735 175000 92220 -399053.5 -6030555 -325411 -27900 9520 64280 -404920 -2470 932695 1921450 221304 -163340 -1328030 6262357.5 94046 -396430 5,800,679.9997) -212000 -

MINING & OIL ATOK 10.62 10.98 11.42 11.42 10.8 11 5200 56404 APEX MINING 1 1.01 1.01 1.01 0.99 1 659000 659600 -150410 ABRA MINING 0.0012 0.0013 0.0012 0.0013 0.0012 0.0013 15000000 19000 ATLAS MINING 2.19 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 103000 236900 -13800 BENGUET A 1.07 1.23 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 100000 115000 COAL ASIA HLDG 0.27 0.275 0.27 0.27 0.27 0.27 140000 37800 CENTURY PEAK 2.69 2.83 2.69 2.84 2.69 2.84 206000 584140 DIZON MINES 6.41 6.43 6.47 6.47 6.37 6.42 4400 28112 FERRONICKEL 0.9 0.91 0.9 0.92 0.89 0.91 3076000 2767710 -1016710 GEOGRACE 0.197 0.2 0.196 0.197 0.195 0.197 250000 49000 LEPANTO A 0.089 0.09 0.09 0.09 0.09 0.09 520000 46800 LEPANTO B 0.089 0.094 0.095 0.096 0.095 0.096 300000 28700 MANILA MINING A 0.0073 0.0077 0.0075 0.0077 0.0075 0.0077 5000000 38200 MARCVENTURES 0.59 0.61 0.61 0.61 0.57 0.61 135000 79370 NIHAO 0.94 0.98 0.93 0.95 0.93 0.95 26000 24200 NICKEL ASIA 2.1 2.11 2.14 2.18 2.08 2.11 8656000 18292860 -10533130 OMICO CORP 0.425 0.46 0.45 0.45 0.425 0.425 50000 21700 ORNTL PENINSULA 0.61 0.63 0.59 0.64 0.58 0.63 186000 113790 3000 PX MINING 2.82 2.85 2.8 2.89 2.79 2.85 446000 1269940 SEMIRARA MINING 19.44 19.46 19.6 19.84 19.42 19.46 1930200 37749434 -14314678 ACE ENEXOR 7.7 7.78 6.41 7.98 6.4 7.78 3904500 29555120 -41826 PHILODRILL 0.0097 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.0094 0.0095 485300000 4852590 PXP ENERGY 6.25 6.32 6.2 6.34 6.18 6.32 180800 1131540 76819

PREFFERED HOUSE PREF A 99.5 100 99 100 99 100 56090 5607910 ALCO PREF B 100.5 104.7 104.7 104.7 104.7 104.7 10 1047 AC PREF B2R 502 503 503 503 503 503 700 352100 CPG PREF A 101.3 103 103 103 103 103 90 9270 DD PREF 101.1 102.8 101.1 101.1 101.1 101.1 2000 202200 FPH PREF C 490 505 502 502 502 502 1000 502000 GLO PREF P 502 505 502 502 502 502 2000 1004000 GTCAP PREF B 983 1000 1000 1000 983 983 50 49440 MWIDE PREF 100.1 102.9 100.1 100.5 100 100.1 378510 37887787 PNX PREF 3A 100.1 101.5 101.5 101.5 101.5 101.5 500 50750 PNX PREF 4 1035 1040 1030 1044 1029 1044 3030 3119600 PCOR PREF 3A 1050 1052 1050 1050 1050 1050 1010 1060500 PCOR PREF 3B 1060 1100 1065 1065 1060 1060 200 212400 SMC PREF 2C 77.6 77.7 77.7 77.95 77.7 77.7 10430 810414.5 SMC PREF 2D 75.1 75.75 75.15 75.15 75.05 75.05 22700 1703852 SMC PREF 2E 75.3 76 75.3 75.3 75.3 75.3 5400 406620 SMC PREF 2F 77 77.25 77 77.2 77 77.2 410 31632 SMC PREF 2H 76.3 76.5 76 76.3 76 76.3 16470 1252320 SMC PREF 2I 75.6 76.2 75.3 76.2 75.3 76.2 1252840 95465958

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR 18 18.2 18.38 18.4 18 18.2 124600 2264298

WARRANTS LR WARRANT 0.88 1.02 1.02 1.02 1.02 1.02 1000 1020

SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES ITALPINAS 2.55 2.6 2.52 2.6 2.52 2.55 130000 333570 KEPWEALTH 8.69 8.7 8.02 8.81 8.02 8.69 193700 1645106 4290 XURPAS 0.76 0.77 0.75 0.77 0.75 0.76 736000 558000

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

FIRST METRO ETF 104.7 104.8 104.8 105.2 104.6 104.8 13220 1387072 40950

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ICTSI net income declines by half to $100.4M in 2019

I

By Lorenz S. Marasigan

@lorenzmarasigan

NTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) saw profits declining by half in 2019 due to a “one-off non-cash impairment” in its Argentinian port, its chief reported on Thursday.

Enrique K. Razon Jr., who chairs the global port operator, said the company’s net income attributable to equity holders dropped by 52 percent in 2019 to $100.4 million, from

$207.5 million, even as its gross revenues grew by 7 percent to $1.48 billion, from $1.38 billion the year prior.

The decline in profits could be attributed to the $158.7-million non-

recurring charges in its Argentinian subsidiary Tecplata SA. This brought consolidated financing charges and other expenses for 2019 to $284 million, a 121-percent surge, from $128.6 million the year prior.

“Owing to the one-off non-cash impairment of the concession right assets of Tecplata SA which we revalued in light of prolonged difficult economic conditions in Argentina, net income fell,” said Razon.

It, likewise, recorded a $2.7-million debt acceleration charge due to its partial prepayment of eurodenominated term loan.

For 2020, it plans to spend $270 million in capital expenditures to fund ongoing expansion projects

in Manila, Mexico, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and other modernization initiatives.

The company hopes to improve its financial standing this year.

“The outbreak of COVID-19 has had an impact on volumes particularly in Asia and we are closely reviewing developments across the regions in which we operate,” said Razon.

“While we cannot be certain how long this situation will last; we are seeking to mitigate this impact through rigorous cost control and increasing market share. ICTSI is an agile business and able to act swiftly to ensure the business remains robust during these uncertain times,” he added.

PLDT to spend ₧83B to improve service

W

HILE it recorded its highest top line in its 92 years of existence, thanks to increased demand for data connectivity, PLDT Inc. is not resting on its laurels just yet. Its bigwig said the company has taken a fresh approach to further increasing its profits—focusing on the needs of its customers and clients This initiative involves the deployment of new technologies, enhancements in network capability and capacity, and the extension of its reach—both for fixed line and mobile. It may sound like a simple task for a huge company, but Manuel V. Pangilinan, who chairs the digital services provider, said this would entail a capital expenditures (capex) program that could reach P83 billion for this year alone.

Over the last five years, the company has been increasing its capital expenditures at double digit rates. Since 2015, it has spent roughly P257.7 billion in capital outlays, most of which are used to improve its networks.

Last year alone, PLDT spent P72.9 billion to support the dramatic growth in data traffic, and the turn of the new decade will see the telco becoming more aggressive with the introduction of 5G technologies in the first half of the year.

“To raise even further our service quality standards and attain unmatched customer experience or CX, PLDT has allocated a larger capex budget of P83 billion for 2020. This will allow us to serve better the fast-growing data usage of our customers and continue to provide superior data CX,” said Pangilinan.

Funded through a mix of internally generated funds through a very healthy Ebitda (earnings before interests, taxes, depreciation and amortization), the amount is 14 percent higher

than that of 2019. Broken down, P64.6 billion are earmarked for network and IT projects, while P18.5 billion, inclusive of P5.5 billion carried over from 2019, are to be spent for broadband installations. The amount also includes investments in 5G infrastructure and equipment.

“It does bear fruit, the higher capital expenditures—us focusing on building the proper network, the kind of cable and fiber facilities,” Pangilinan said.

Last year saw the company recording a net income of P22.5 billion, a 19-percent rise from P18.91 billion on the back of a huge increase in service revenues, which was mainly driven by its data businesses.

Consolidated service revenues reached P157.7 billion, or 8percent higher than its previous peak of P153.5 billion the year prior. Its wireless business contributed P72.1 billion to the total revenue pie, growing by 20 percent versus the previous year, while its enterprise and home businesses contributed P39.2 billion and P37.2 billion, respectively.

Further complementing the increase in service revenues is the 13-percent decline in expenses, which reached P129.79 billion from P149.14 billion.

As such, the company reported a telco core income of P27.1 billion, increasing by 13 percent from P22.5 billion in 2018.

With these developments, Pangilinan said the company is now back on the saddle.

“We used to be riding on the back of an ass— a donkey—now it’s probably a race horse,” he said. “Despite continuing challenges, 2019 was a productive year, with revenues reaching record levels on the back of robust growth of our consumer wireless business. This was achieved

McDonald’s Philippines sustains growth in 2019

Q

UICK-SERVICE restaurant (QSR) giant McDonald’s Philippines, majority owned and led by its chairman and founder, Dr. George T. Yang, sustained its double digit growth last year through the continued expansion and innovations enhancing the customer experience.

The company did this while strengthening its commitment in making a positive difference in society through employment opportunities, and continuing support for the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

As part of the company’s vision to lead, McDonald’s in 2019 increased its capital expenditure to over P3 billion geared toward initiatives founded on elevating the customer experience, value and convenience.

The company opened 58 new stores across the country, expanding to new territories to reach more Filipinos in areas, such as Camarines Sur, El Nido, Coron, Mangatarem in Pangasinan, Digos in Davao del Sur, Mati in Davao Oriental, Lagao in General Santos, Silay and Cadiz in Negros Occidental, Danao in Cebu and Caibaan in Tacloban.

McDonald’s ended the year with 669 stores nationwide. With majority of the newly opened stores having Drive-Thru, 2019 marked strong growth for this business segment. Another growth driver for the Yang-led QSR was its McDelivery service with the opening of more delivery hubs and its

growing partnerships with major food aggregators, such as GrabFood and FoodPanda.

It was also a year of growth for McDonald’s new store format NXTGEN—ending 2019 with over 140 NXTGEN stores, allowing more Filipinos all over the country to experience modern day, stateof-the-art convenience with a modernized menu board, dual point service platform equipped with a visual board that enables customer to track the status of their orders, self-ordering kiosks, cashless payment options and table service.

“The continued rollout of NXTGEN is a strategic investment as we continue to grow in the Philippines. It has always been our priority to constantly evolve and introduce innovations for our customers to enhance their experience across different touch points,” Kenneth S. Yang, president and chief executive officer of McDonald’s Philippines said in a statement.

Apart from new store openings and NXTGEN expansion, innovations in menu offerings like Flavors of Japan, Rice Bowls, Iced Coffee and Choco Pie, and reinforced local store marketing activities paved way for McDonald’s Philippines to achieve over 55 billion system wide sales in 2019 reaching over 15 percent increase over the previous year (2018). McDonald’s posted a systemwide sales compounded annual growth rate of 14 percent over the past 10 years.

in large part by making the needed investments in our data and IT networks.”

He declined to disclose internal targets and outlooks, but said the company hopes to sustain the growth momentum for 2020.

“We are quite optimistic that 2020 will be a

MUTUAL FUNDS

better year for us than 2019. We are hoping for a double digit growth in revenues this year—ceteris paribus—despite the novel coronavirus and Taal, and all other issues. The issues that may arise because of Pogo will have minimal impact on us,” he said. Lorenz S. Marasigan

March 5, 2020

NAV ONE YEAR THREE YEAR FIVE YEAR Y-T-D

PER SHARE RETURN* RETURN STOCK FUNDS ALFM GROWTH FUND, INC. -A 222.84 -13.39% -4.03% -4.79% -11.53% ATRAM ALPHA OPPORTUNITY FUND, INC. -A 1.1138 -29.21% -7.28% -7.16% -19.41% ATRAM PHILIPPINE EQUITY OPPORTUNITY FUND, INC. -A 3.0987 -22.74% -8.26% -7.31% -15.75% CLIMBS SHARE CAPITAL EQUITY INVESTMENT FUND CORP. -A 0.7749 -15.34% N.A. N.A. -13.62% FIRST METRO CONSUMER FUND ON MSCI PHILS. IMI, INC. -A 0.7589 -9.29% N.A. N.A. -10.64% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN EQUITY FUND,INC. -A 4.7283 -11.84% -2.74% -4.49% -11.26% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN PHILIPPINE INDEX FUND, INC. -A,6 0.7472 -12.09% -6.59% N.A. -12.46% MBG EQUITY INVESTMENT FUND, INC. -A 90.73 -26.53% N.A. N.A. -12.19% PAMI EQUITY INDEX FUND, INC. -A 44.9985 -10.83% -2.07% N.A. -12.25% PHILAM STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND, INC. -A 473.76 -10.59% -2.63% -4.06% -11.08% PHILEQUITY ALPHA ONE FUND, INC. -A,D,8 0.9522 N.A. N.A. N.A. -7.56% PHILEQUITY DIVIDEND YIELD FUND, INC. -A 1.1415 -10.68% -2.26% -3.16% -11.3% PHILEQUITY FUND, INC. -A 33.5479 -10.92% -1.28% -3% -11.48% PHILEQUITY MSCI PHILIPPINE INDEX FUND, INC. -A,1 0.9036 -9.83% N.A. N.A. -11.25% PHILEQUITY PSE INDEX FUND INC. -A 4.5876 -10.06% -1.42% -2.43% -12.17% PHILIPPINE STOCK INDEX FUND CORP. -A 765.94 -10.02% -1.45% -2.6% -12.17% SOLDIVO STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND, INC. -A 0.7185 -19.51% -5.4% -6.5% -15.61% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY PHILIPPINE EQUITY FUND, INC. -A 3.6747 -12.27% -2.06% -3.3% -12.7% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY PHILIPPINE STOCK INDEX FUND, INC. -A 0.879 -10.26% -1.68% N.A. -12.17% UNITED FUND, INC. -A 3.2621 -9.15% 0.29% -1.41% -10.71% EXCHANGE TRADED FUND FIRST METRO PHIL. EQUITY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND, INC. -A,C 102.8025 -9.7% -0.8% -1.69% -12.1% ATRAM ASIAPLUS EQUITY FUND, INC. -B $0.9576 -4.66% 1.71% -1.15% -6.88% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY WORLD VOYAGER FUND, INC. -A $1.309 4.53% 6.07% N.A. -5.06% BALANCED FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES ATRAM DYNAMIC ALLOCATION FUND, INC. -A 1.4962 -11.59% -4.41% -5.32% -4.26% ATRAM PHILIPPINE BALANCED FUND, INC. -A 2.0529 -9.32% -3.29% -3.08% -5.88% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN BALANCED FUND INC. -A 2.4774 -4.23% -0.26% -3.49% -5.86% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN F.O.C.C.U.S. DYNAMIC FUND, INC. -A,5 0.2049 N.A. N.A. N.A. -10.33% NCM MUTUAL FUND OF THE PHILS., INC. -A 1.8825 -0.08% 1% -0.79% -4.11% PAMI HORIZON FUND, INC. -A 3.5726 -0.09% -0.32% -1.93% -5.71% PHILAM FUND, INC. -A 15.9719 -1.3% -0.47% -2.03% -5.83% SOLIDARITAS FUND, INC. -A 1.9977 -5.22% -0.93% -1.51% -6.03% SUN LIFE OF CANADA PROSPERITY BALANCED FUND, INC. -A 3.5618 -5.24% -0.36% -1.91% -7.82% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY ACHIEVER FUND 2028, INC. -A,D,2 0.9599 -1.07% N.A. N.A. -5.49% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY ACHIEVER FUND 2038, INC. -A,D,2 0.9051 -5.81% N.A. N.A. -9.16% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY ACHIEVER FUND 2048, INC. -A,D,2 0.8944 -6.79% N.A. N.A. -9.95% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DYNAMIC FUND, INC. -A 0.8817 -7.34% -1.56% -3.53% -9.55% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES COCOLIFE DOLLAR FUND BUILDER, INC. -A $0.03934 10.23% 3.69% 2.32% 2.9% PAMI ASIA BALANCED FUND, INC. -A $0.9972 1.4% 2.73% -0.07% -3.92% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR ADVANTAGE FUND, INC. -A $3.8082 5.06% 5.3% 2.89% -2.62% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR WELLSPRING FUND, INC. -A,7 $1.1221 5.19% 3.38% N.A. -0.59% BOND FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES ALFM PESO BOND FUND, INC. -A 359.97 4.09% 2.8% 2.33% 0.61% ATRAM CORPORATE BOND FUND, INC. -A 1.9114 2.52% 0.48% -0.49% 0.49% COCOLIFE FIXED INCOME FUND, INC. -A 3.1451 4.97% 5.19% 5.17% 0.92% EKKLESIA MUTUAL FUND INC. -A 2.2479 4.59% 2.37% 1.96% 1.03% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN FIXED INCOME FUND,INC. -A 2.3773 6.65% 2.4% 1.53% 0.77% PHILAM BOND FUND, INC. -A 4.4305 12.94% 2.79% 1.78% 1.32% PHILEQUITY PESO BOND FUND, INC. -A

3.8069 6.28% 3.06% 1.51% 0.49% SOLDIVO BOND FUND, INC. -A 0.9844 8.16% 1.98% 0.57% 2.08% SUN LIFE OF CANADA PROSPERITY BOND FUND, INC. -A 3.1157 9.91% 4.61% 2.74% 1.29% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY GS FUND, INC. -A

1.7159 9.02% 3.99% 2.25% 0.87% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES ALFM DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -A $472.6 4.61% 2.77% 2.73% 0.94% ALFM EURO BOND FUND, INC. -A Є220.99 2.84% 1.68% 1.28% 0.57% ATRAM TOTAL RETURN DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -B $1.2154 5.33% 3.01% 2.46% 0.68% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -A $0.0261 4.4% 1.58% 1.36% 1.16% PAMI GLOBAL BOND FUND, INC -A $1.1255 7.26% 1.93% 0.4% 2.77% PHILAM DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -A $2.4762 11.45% 4.16% 3.17% 3.01% PHILEQUITY DOLLAR INCOME FUND INC. -A $0.060932 5.8% 2.34% 1.91% 1.02% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR ABUNDANCE FUND, INC. -A $3.2896 12.65% 3.93% 3.09% 3.6% MONEY MARKET FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES ALFM MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. -A 126.65 3.89% 2.99% 2.26% 0.69% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. -A,3 1.0327 2.9% N.A. N.A. 0.62% PHILAM MANAGED INCOME FUND, INC. -A 1.2647 6.41% 3.28% 1.8% 0.64% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. -A 1.2716 3.61% 2.96% 2.46% 0.55% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR STARTER FUND, INC. -A $1.0407 1.99% N.A. N.A. 0.34% FEEDER FUND PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES ALFM GLOBAL MULTI-ASSET INCOME FUND INC. -B,D,4 $0.97 N.A. N.A. N.A. -2.02% A - NAVPS AS OF THE PREVIOUS BANKING DAY. B - NAVPS AS OF TWO BANKING DAYS AGO. C - LISTED IN THE PSE. D - IN NET ASSET VALUE PER UNIT (NAVPU).

1 - LAUNCH DATE IS JANUARY 3, 2019. 2 - LAUNCH DATE IS JANUARY 28, 2019. 3 - LAUNCH DATE IS FEBRUARY 1, 2019. 4 - LAUNCH DATE IS NOVEMBER 15, 2019.

5 - LAUNCH DATE IS SEPTEMBER 28, 2019. 6 - RENAMING WAS APPROVED BY THE SEC LAST OCTOBER 12, 2018 (FORMERLY, ONE WEALTHY NATION FUND, INC.).

7 - ADJUSTED DUE TO STOCK DIVIDEND ISSUANCE LAST OCTOBER 9, 2019. 8 - LAUNCH DATE IS DECEMBER 09, 2019.

"While we endeavor to keep the information accurate, the Philippine Investment Funds Association (PIFA) and its members make no warranties as to the correctness of the newspaper’s publication and assume no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions. You may visit http://www. pifa. com.ph to see the latest NAVPS/NAVPU."

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Banking&Finance BusinessMirror

Friday, March 6, 2020 B3

DBP aims to grow assets to ₧817B in 2020

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By Bernadette D. Nicolas

@BNicolasBM

TATE-RUN Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) is targeting to grow this year its assets to P817 billion as it remains on track to hit its P1-trillion goal by 2022.

In a report to Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III, DBP President-Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Herbosa said they aim to grow their assets by 7 percent this year to reach P817 billion, from P762.17 billion in 2019.

Herbosa said the DBP remains on track to achieve its P1-trillion asset goal, as it was able to expand its assets by 14 percent in 2019 compared to the 2018 level of P669.59 billion, or better than the 10-percent increase over the 2016-2018 period.

“We project an average growth in assets of 10 percent per year to meet our goal of P1 trillion by 2022,” Herbosa said.

At least 54 percent of DBP’s 2019 total assets of P762.17 billion, or P414.06 billion were in loans, consistent with its role as a development bank. The remaining percentage is composed of P205.56 billion for investments in treasuries and other ventures, while P141.55 billion were investments in other assets.

DBP is also aiming to book a higher net income this year to P6.1 billion, from P6.06 billion in 2019.

In terms of gross income, the state-run bank’s goal is to increase it by 5 percent to reach P35 billion. This is higher than the bank’s gross income of P32.87 billion in 2019,

a 26-percent surge from P26.06 billion the previous year.

Herbosa said this is also higher than the average growth of 6.75 percent over the 2016-2018 period.

Loan portfolio

ASIDE from this, DBP also wants its loan portfolio to reach P419 billion this year, up from P414.06 in 2019.

Moreover, it aims to increase its deposits by 7 percent to P594 billion from P554.63 billion in 2019.

As of November 2019, P223.9 billion or 65 percent of the DBP’s total loan portfolio went to the infrastructure and logistics sector. The bank lent P58.9 billion to the agriculture sector, released P16.7 billion in salary loans, lent P43.7 billion to the environmental sector, and released P45.3 billion for other development loans.

Over 50 percent of countryside

“WE have exceeded our target of reaching 50 percent of the countryside, as we have already achieved 53-percent reach in 2019,” Herbosa said.

Compared to the top 10 universal and commercial banks like BDO Unibank, Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank)

Made by Adelaide

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HEN good friend John Peacock, owner and CEO of Associations Forum Pty Ltd (Australia), invited me as one of his international guests to attend the 14th Annual CEO & Chair Symposium last February 20 and 21, 2020, in Adelaide, I readily accepted. It helped that I was already in Melbourne earlier for another event—the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME)—which I wrote about in this column last week.

As an association executive, I consider two key elements in attending MICE events (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions): content and destination/venue. The symposium for 120 high-level C-suite attendees at the Adelaide Convention Centre (ACC), a top-class conference facility, gave me more reasons not to miss the event.

The two-day symposium had a content-laden and networking-full program agenda. It had 20 practitioner-speakers, panelists and moderators, who covered 16 plenary and seven breakout sessions on current events, case studies, and practical tips on association governance and management. There were also exhibitors who augmented the learning sessions with solutions that ranged from membership and event management software to association management outsourcing options.

The visit to Adelaide was my second. In July 2015, I was invited by John as one of the international panelists for the Associations Forum’s Annual Conference 2015 also held at the ACC, with over 350 attendees from associations and charities in Australia.

The ACC is a large convention facility located on North Terrace of the city and the first purpose-built convention center to be built in Australia. In 2001, ACC won the Royal Australian Institute of Architects 2002 Awards of Merit. In 2018, ACC’s commitment to innovation was celebrated at the prestigious 2018 MEA National Awards, claiming top honors in the Banqueting & Catering category. The ACC also affirmed its global sustainability leadership during 2018-2019, becoming the world’s first convention center to achieve EarthCheck’s coveted Platinum certification.

Behind the impressive credentials and accomplishments of ACC are the people

Association World Octavio Peralta managing it. I witnessed its customer service excellence first hand during the symposium where ACC’s general manager, Simon Burgess, was visible and engaged the participants, and so were its sales and marketing personnel.

At one of the event’s many networking activities, I met Ashley Caspers, a representative from the Adelaide Convention Bureau with whom I explored the possibility of having one of our international events organized in the city. Immediately the following day, I was impressed to receive an e-mail detailing how ACB may be of help to bring our event to Adelaide.

The ACB is the peak, independent body for business events in South Australia. Its purpose is to attract business events to South Australia which have been generating growth and legacies for the State, and helped create memorable conference experiences for delegates.

ACB’s promise to delegates reads: “Adelaide, Australia, an inspiring and innovative destination, which brings people together to share in the exceptional.”

All these years, I have noted that tourism promotion and MICE campaigns are successful only when they are made by institutions and people coming together and helping each other as one unit, one brand. This was the case in Adelaide. It was very much made by Adelaide!

The contributor, Octavio Peralta, is concurrently the secretary-general of the Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific, founder and CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives, and president of the Asia-Pacific Federation of Association Organizations. The purpose of PCAAE is to advance the association management profession and to make associations well-governed and sustainable. The PCAAE enjoys the support of ADFIAP, the Tourism Promotions Board and the Philippine International Convention Center. E-mail: obp@adfiap.org

UnionBank, Microsoft bring RBs to cloud

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NION Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) has partnered with Microsoft and Swiss software company Temenos to bring Filipino banking to the cloud platform Azure and expand opportunities for financial inclusion and innovation in the Philippines.

Under the tripartite agreement, UnionBank’s fintech arm, UBX, now has the capability to enable rural banks, microfinance entities, and cooperatives in the Philippines with technology to power their financial operations quickly and bring finan-

cial services within the reach of more Filipinos.

In recent years, the adoption of technology in the Financial Services Industry (FSI) has grown exponentially, with recent strides on various innovations, such as blockchain, virtual currency, instant payments and robotic process automation.

Under the partnership, UBX’s partner financial institutions gain access to Temenos’ integrated and highly scalable core banking software, hosted on Microsoft Azure, an open, flexible, enterprisegrade cloud computing platform.

and the Bank of the Philippine Islands, Herbosa said DBP’s loan portfolio growth was much higher at 26 percent compared to the industry average of 11.9 percent as of the third quarter of 2019. This feat was achieved despite the absence of consumer loan products, unlike most of the private universal and commercial banks.

DBP’s deposits, which grew 17 percent, was likewise better than the industry’s 5.7-percent growth rate last year; and its asset expan-

sion of 14 percent was faster than the industry average of 11.57 percent, Herbosa said.

“Compared to the industry’s 1.14 percent, DBP’s return on assets ratio at 0.85 percent, and the industry’s return of equity of 10.6 percent compared to our 10.82 percent, show that DBP is mostly developmental lending. This is also reflected in our higher non-performing loan ratio of 2.37 percent as against the industry’s 1.88 percent. Thus, margins are not as high as

the others and the Bank takes a little more risk,” Herbosa said.

“We will continue to help spur the development of micro, small and medium enterprises, assist the newly formed Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, as well as the rest of Mindanao, and forge partnerships in fintech [financial technology] to increase manpower productivity and the digitalization of our operations,” Herbosa added.

B4 Friday, March 6, 2020

Thrift banks brace for headwinds as new decade begins

PayMaya wins Anvil Awards for driving ‘Cashless for All’

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AYMAYA brings home Anvils anew for its successful 'Cashless for All' campaigns. Executives and officers of PayMaya's Marketing Group, People Group, and Public Affairs and Communications Team at the 55th Anvil Awards.

For the fourth succeeding year, digital financial services leader PayMaya Philippines was recognized with major awards for its ‘Cashless for All’ campaigns, highlighting its pioneering and highimpact work in spurring financial inclusion through digital payment technologies.

Through a combination of cashback incentives, promos, new features, and

widest availability, PayMaya’s successful flagship program ‘Don’t Pay Cash. PayMaya!’ has encouraged millions of Filipinos to go cashless for their everyday life--whether it is for shopping, sending money, paying bills, buying digital goods, transferring money to banks, and many more.

The campaign supports the government's goal of increasing the share of digital transactions by value in the country to 30% by the end of 2020.

In its latest report based on the study of the United Nations-based Better Than Cash Alliance (BTCA), the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said that the volume of digital payments usage in the Philippines grew from 1% in 2013 to 10% in 2018, while the value of

digital payments rose from 8% to 20% during the same period.

PayMaya is the only financial technology company in the country that offers end-to-end payment solutions with the widest on-ground branch network. It is the first to give millions of Filipinos an e-wallet that allows them to pay cashless transactions at any time of the day, anywhere in the world, and from any device.

It has enabled local government units and national government agencies to more efficiently deliver service to the public for government transactions.

These include the Social Security System (SSS), the Home Development Mutual Fund (PAG-IBIG Fund),) the Department of Science and Technology, as well as the Cities of Manila and Valenzuela, among many others.

To ensure that no one is left behind, PayMaya’s on ground presence through Smart Padala is bridging the underserved and unbanked to the digital economy.

With its widest network with over 27,000 partner agents nationwide, Smart Padala centers act as “digital hub” touchpoints in their communities, offering services such as bills payment and digital goods purchase on top of remittance.

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HE Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB), the umbrella organization of the country’s thrift banks, is calling upon its members to fortify its operations as the new decade began with environmental, social and geopolitical issues affecting the world’s economies.

The Philippines took an unexpected hit at the start of 2020 as the country faced several crises brought on by the eruption of Taal, the outbreak of the African Swine Fever (ASF) and a possible contagion from the novel corona virus (COVID-19). Adding to these domestic concerns, well known economists around the world predict a global recession in 2020.

“CTB is taking a proactive stance with the view that risks are unavoidable but can be managed. We hope to prepare our member thrift banks to better address these risks,” said CTB President Cecilio D. San Pedro.

The Finance Department had earlier said that the Philippine economy would be able to sustain its momentum of growth this year

despite these challenges. “We, together with the whole banking sector, will have to play our part in sustaining the country’s social and economic stability and growth,” added San Pedro.

J&T Express bags customer award

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&T Express, the number one e-commerce delivery company in Southeast Asia, was recently recognized in the National Customers' Choice Awards ceremonies last January 17 at the Diamond Hotel. The company was named Best Newcomer of the Year in the courier services industry.

"We are honored and humbled by this recognition. This award has proven to us that all our efforts in making J& T Express worthy of such an acknowledgement was worth it," said Dean Ding, chief executive officer of J& T Express Philippines. "We owe this to our loyal customers, partners and online resellers who trust us to be a part of their business success."

Choice Annual Awards is an awardgiving body that aims to push companies to work harder to ensure that the standards of excellence are maintained for the end benefit of the customers who patronize these companies.

Companies that have earned the distinction of being recognized are given the privilege of using the logo, which is a mark that sets them apart from all others. The awards is given to professionals, companies, products and services.

"This award means that as a partner toecommerce businesses, we will double our efforts to improve how we do business. It is what we believe our commitment is to the public and our partners." Ding added.

J& T Express is an e-commerce delivery company that is dedicated to assisting the growth of the local e-commerce sector by providing top-notch express delivery services.

The company applies advanced technologies as well as efficient customer services to enable online businesses to take better advantage of today's online business environment. To date, J& T Express has 400 branches across the Philippines. To know more about J&T Express and its services, visit their official FB Page at https://www.facebook.com/jntexpressphilippines.

Hitachi celebrates 20th years in PH, launches new products

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OHNSON Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning Products (Phils.) Inc. recently showcased its newest products during the Hitachi Dealer’s Convention held at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. The event coincided with Hitachi's 20th year of manufacturing and distributing high-quality air conditioning units in the Philippines.

Yang, Yi Chih-CEO of Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning Philippines welcomed the dealers who came from all over the country.

He also led in recognizing the top dealers and awarding them with special trophy.

To spice up the night, Hitachi raffled off 100 remote-controlled stand fans and 30 various air conditioning units.

Masson D. Linsangan, the company’s project department manager, shared with the company’s numerous dealers the latest additions to Hitachi’s line up of air conditioning units.

Johnson Controls and Hitachi Appliances, Inc. have completed

their global joint venture agreement in October 2015 and immediately commenced operations of Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning to provide global customers with a full range of world class air conditioning products and technology.

HARI Foundation partners with sisters of Mary School

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USTAINING its commitment to empowering underprivileged Filipino youth through education, H.A.R.I. Foundation, Inc. (HFI), the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), turned over a generous cash donation to its

newest partner, the Sisters of Mary School (SMS).

Said HFI President Ma. Fe PerezAgudo, “Through this donation, we reaffirm HFI’s advocacy for education as the most effective and long-term way of empowering our youth. But this is not just a one-off CSR campaign, H.A.R.I. Foundation

HFI’s symbolic check donation to further the training of Sisters of Mary School students was handed over to SMS representatives. At the turnover ceremony, from left: Atty. Maricar Bautista and HFI President Maria Fe Perez-Agudo, SMS Girlstown Biga Campus Principal Sr. Gertrudes Dayag and Local Superior Sr. Mela Sim.

partnered with the Sisters of Mary School Girlstown and Boystown because of the excellent voc-tech training that they receive in high school. Once they graduate, we can further hone the skills of their students undergoing the automotive training courses that we offer at Hyundai Dream CentrePhilippines.”

“This education to employment program fulfills our aim to give dignified careers to our youth.

Unlike other programs that stop at graduation, we strive to bring these skilled technicians to our growing number of Passenger Car (PC) and Commercial Vehicle (CV) dealerships. This in turn benefits our customers who deserve worldclass quality services,” Agudo concluded.

HARI has over 50 PC and CV dealerships across the country.

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By Graham Dunbar The Associated Press

AUSANNE, Switzerland—Despite worldwide concern and speculation about whether the fast-spreading virus outbreak will affect the Tokyo Olympics, the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) leadership is not joining in the debate.

“Neither the word cancellation nor the word postponement was even mentioned,” IOC President Thomas Bach told a news conference Wednesday about the second day of executive board meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Bach sought to project calm assurance after holding a conference call with local organizers. In Tokyo, officials then briefed local media, some of whom wore protective masks.

Asked how he could be so confident the July 24-August 9 Olympics will go ahead as scheduled, Bach replied: “Because we talk to the experts.”

“We are a sports organization and we follow the advice of the World Health Organization,” Bach said, referring to the United Nations agency based around 60 kilometers (40 miles) away in Geneva.

The coronavirus that emerged in China late last year had infected more than 90,000 people globally

by Wednesday and caused over 3,100 deaths. Serious outbreaks have been experienced in Iran and Italy.

Federal authorities in the IOC’s home country Switzerland, which shares a border with Italy, have banned public gatherings of 1,000 people until midMarch to help contain the virus spreading.

Around 100 people were in a conference room at IOC headquarters to hear Bach use broadly similar answers to bat away virus questions from different angles.

“I will not add fuel to the flame of speculation,” Bach said when asked about deadline for deciding whether to postpone the Tokyo Games.

Asked if the WHO declaring a pandemic would change the IOC’s position, Bach said: “I will not take part in any way of such kind of mere speculations.”

Bach said he took confidence from having met the WHO’s director general and other leading officials last Friday. A task force of officials from the WHO, IOC and Japanese sports and public officials has also been working together for around three weeks.

The virus has affected qualifying competitions for many of the 33 sports on Tokyo’s medal program, which some postponed, venues changed, and travel issues for athletes from China and elsewhere.

“This is challenging, yes,” Bach acknowledged, “but I must also say I’m pretty proud of the Olympic movement, for the great solidarity and flexibility everybody has shown so far.”

Bach, who won a gold medal in fencing at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, was also asked if he had experienced

I.O.C., BACH UNWAVERING Sports BusinessMirror

C1

| Friday, March 6, 2020 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

a period as stressful as this in his 50 years as an athlete and sports official.

“Many,” he said, citing concerns of nuclear war with North Korea before the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea, and the Zika virus before the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. He also noted boycotts at each Summer Games from 1976 to 1984 and the terrorist attack at the 1972 Munich Olympics.

“Do you need more?” he said.

In IOC board decisions on Wednesday: n The Olympic push toward gender equality means a change in flag-bearing protocol for the opening

ceremony at the Tokyo Games. Each country will be encouraged to pick one man and one woman who jointly carry their national flag. n The IOC’s annual meeting of members, known as the Session, will be held in Mumbai, India, in 2023.

Bach said Olympic sports wanted to tap into the potential of youth in the world’s second-most populated nation. India has a population around 1.3 billion people. n The IOC now formally aims to be “climate positive” by 2030, with carbon savings exceeding the impact of its operations. The goal will be included in contracts with Olympic host cities.

FRENCH LEAGUE BANS HANDSHAKES

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INTERNATIONAL Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach and Toshiro Muto (center left), CEO of the Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee, and the committee’s president, Yoshiro Mori (center right) talk to reporters during a news conference in Tokyo on Wednesday. AP

‘Host City Contract’ gives IOC much leeway to cancel Olympics

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OKYO—Japanese Olympic Minister Seiko Hashimoto suggested in Parliament this week that the Tokyo Games could be postponed by a few months from the planned July 24 opening and still meet a contract agreement with the International Olympic Committee.

It’s not that clear cut and seems unlikely.

The IOC has said repeatedly the Olympics will open as planned in just under five months despite a virus outbreak that started in China and has spread to at least 70 countries.

The 81-page “Home City Contract” signed in 2013 by the IOC, the city of Tokyo, and the Japanese Olympic Committee, gives the IOC wide latitude to terminate.

Reading from a prepared text on Tuesday, Hashimoto said: “The IOC has the right to cancel the games only if they are not held during 2020. This can be interpreted to mean the games can be postponed as long as they are held during the calendar year.”

Under a section titled “Termination,” the IOC has the right to terminate for many reasons: state of war, civil disorder, boycott, and others. It also says the IOC can terminate if it has “reasonable grounds to believe, in its sole discretion, that the safety of participants in the games would be seriously threatened or jeopardized for any reason whatsoever.”

The same section says the IOC can terminate if “the games are not celebrated during the year 2020.” The contract says the IOC has to give local organizers, the city, and the national Olympic committee 60 days notice to terminate.

The section also says the city, local organizers. and the national Olympic committee “waive any claim and right to any form of indemnity, damages or other compensation.”

The modern Olympics have been canceled only three times, all during wartime.

On Wednesday, organizers postponed announcing any measure that might limit crowds for the torch relay, which

begins on March 26 in Fukushima prefecture located 250 kilometers northeast of Tokyo.

Organizing committee President Yoshiro Mori and CEO Toshiro Muto talked by a teleconference call with the IOC executive board. They said they did not talk about postponing or canceling the Olympics. “There were no such talks at all,” Muto said, speaking Japanese to more than 100 reporters at the committee headquarters.

In a statement, organizers said they “will take all necessary and appropriate measures to prevent the spread of infection among runners, spectators, and operational staff” during the relay.

The torch relay is promoted by Toyota and Coca-Cola, two key Olympic sponsors. The statement said organizers would consult with local governments “and partnercompanies” about the possibility of limiting the number of runners and fans as the torch moves around the country.

Muto said organizers hoped to decide about a week before each leg of the torch relay—it runs for almost four months all over Japan—on the need for “restricting the entrance of spectators to the celebration venue or asking visitors along the route to cooperate to prevent the spread of infection.”

Any change to the July 24 opening date would have to be approved by international broadcasters.

Tokyo is spending about $12.6 billion to organize the Olympics, although a national government audit says it’s twice that.

“I don’t know, I am not God,” Mori replied when asked when a final decision would have to be made on the Olympics.

The IOC gets 73 percent of its $5.7 billion income in a four-year Olympic cycle from selling broadcast rights. About half of that TV income is from American network NBC. AP

PARIS Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe (right) celebrates with teammate Juan Bernat after scoring his side’s fourth goal during their French League One match against Dijon at the Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris recently. AP

HERE will be no handshakes between players and officials at upcoming French league matches, as a precautionary measure against the virus spreading around the world.

The French league said in a statement Wednesday that pre-match protocol has been modified to help prevent the “spread of the coronavirus.”

Players and the match referee will hold young mascots by the shoulder, and not by the hand as usually happens, when the teams enter the field.

Players from each side will line up without their traditional pre-match handshakes, while handshakes between the coaches and match officials are also scrapped.

These measures are valid until further notice, said the LFP, which is working in conjunction with the health, sports and interior ministries.

The virus outbreak that started in China has spread to at least 70 countries.

The total number of cases in France reached 257 by Wednesday, with four deaths, the health ministry said. AP

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Business

C2 Friday, March 6, 2020

CURRY BACK IN HARNESS S

AN FRANCISCO—Stephen Curry is scheduled to return from a more than four-month absence with a broken left hand to play for Golden State against the Toronto Raptors on Thursday night.

The Warriors announced Wednesday night that Curry had been medically cleared to play and would be in the lineup Thursday in a rematch of last year’s National Basketball Association (NBA) Finals won in six games by Toronto. The two-time NBA MVP missed 58 games after falling on his left hand October 30 versus Phoenix.

He practiced Monday with the G League Santa Cruz Warriors, then was recalled back to the NBA team later in the day in a most expected promotion.

Curry, who turns 32 on March 14, had hoped to return last Sunday against Washington but his timeline wasn’t too far

delayed. He is averaging 20.3 points, 6.5 assists and 5.0 rebounds over just four games this season. Golden State Curry’s initial game back from injury also will be his first on the court with Andrew Wiggins, who was acquired by the Warriors from Minnesota on Feb. 6 for guard D’Angelo Russell, guard Jacob Evans and forward Omari Spellman.

“I’m very excited. I feel like everybody is,” Wiggins said. “He’s the type of player that single handedly he’s going to come and change the way everyone plays for the better.

So, I’m excited. He’s a game-changer.”

Wiggins is scoring 20.1 points in his first nine games with the Warriors.

The Warriors have already ruled out Curry’s Splash Brother, Klay Thompson, for the entire season as he recovers from surgery last July 2 to repair a torn ACL in his left knee suffered in the decisive Game Six last June 13. AP

EALA WINS PRO DEBUT IN TUNISIA

T STEPHEN CURRY is set to return for the Warriors against the Toronto Raptors on Thursday night. AP

Doncic, only 21, sets new Mavs’ triple-double record

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ALLAS—Just five days after his 21st birthday, Luka Doncic continued to etch his name in the Dallas Mavericks’ record

book.

And in his first matchup against fellow young star Zion Williamson, Doncic got the last word—and the win.

The second-year star scored 30 points and broke Jason Kidd’s franchise record for career triple-doubles with his 22nd, helping the Mavericks hold off the New Orleans Pelicans, 127-123, in overtime Wednesday night.

The nationally televised matchup between Doncic and Williamson lived up to the hype.

Doncic had 17 rebounds and 10 assists, and his 3 with 1:10 to play in overtime snapped a 118-118 tie and gave the Mavericks the lead for good.

And he did it with a nagging thumb injury that required X-rays after the game.

“It hurts, but you’ve got to get through it,” Doncic said. “You’re probably going to get hit every game, almost every game, so you’ve just got to fight through it.”

Kristaps Porzingis had 34 points and 12 rebounds for Dallas, and his dunk off a feed from Doncic gave Dallas a 123-119 lead—and gave Doncic his triple-double.

Williamson scored 21 points in 35 minutes while playing back-to-back games for the first time in his young National Basketball Association (NBA) career. He has scored double figures in all 17 games he’s played in and has 20 points or more in his last 13.

“I think my game is progressing,” Williamson said. “Still getting my legs under me, just learning the game. The NBA, these are the best players in the world. They’re smart. They have high IQs for the game. They have scouting reports, so I think it’s just bringing something new to the table every game.”

Brandon Ingram led New Orleans with

FIBA POSTPONES 3X3 QUALIFIER IN INDIA T

THE Mavericks’ Luka Doncic is fouled by the Pelicans’ Derrick Favors (22) during the first half of their game on Wednesday. AP

HE International Basketball Federation (FIBA) announced on Thursday the postponement of the 3x3 Olympic Qualification Tournament in Bengaluru in India because of the coronavirus outbreak.

The event is one of several FIBA competitions which have been impacted by the outbreak, including the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cups. The 3x3 Olympic qualification event is setfrom March 18 to 22.

FIBA expressed hope last month that the competition would be able to take place as planned, but the governing body have now been forced into a postponement.

FIBA said it is working in “close collaboration with the International Olympic Committee on the best solution possible in the circumstances.”

The FIBA statement acknowledged the tournaments need to take place before the Universality Olympic Qualifier Tournament in Budapest from April 24 to 26.

A total of 20 men and women teams, including the Philippines, were set to compete in Bengaluru. The Philippines is bracketed with Slovenia, France, Qatar and the Dominican Republic in Pool C. The Philippine team is composed of Joshua Munzon, Alvin Pasaol and pro players CJ Perez and Moala Tautua. They are deep in training

under Serbian coach Stefan Stojacic.

Mongolia, Poland, Brazil, Turkey and the Czech Republic are in Pool A o, with the United States, Lithuania, Belgium, South Korea and New Zealand in Pool B. Pool D is composed of The Netherlands, Latvia, Canada, Croatia and hosts India are in Pool D. Three Olympic berths for men and women are at stake in the tournament. One spot per gender at Tokyo 2020 will also be up for grabs at a Universality Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

Serbia, Russia and China automatically qualified for the men’s tournament via their world rankings, where they will join hosts Japan. Russia, China, Mongolia and Romania qualified for the women’s tournament.

Japan was only given one automatic berth at Tokyo 2020, with its women’s team having to compete in qualifying.

FIBA also announced the 3x3 Asia Cups have been rescheduled. The competition at Changsha in China has been moved from May 13 to 17 to September 9 to 13.

The FIBA 3x3 Under-17 Asia Cup at Cyberjaya in Malaysia was rescheduled from June 4 to 7 to October 8 to 11. The men’s and women’s FIBA Under-16 Asian Championships in Beirut and Canberra respectively, were cancelled. Insidethegames

Steeplechase champion Jebet banned four years for doping

Olympic advice on transgender athletes due after Tokyo Games

ONACO—Olympic steeplechase champion Ruth Jebet was banned four years for doping on Wednesday.

The Kenya-born Jebet, who competes for Bahrain, tested positive for the staminaboosting drug EPO in a sample she gave in December 2017. She won the Olympic gold medal in 2016 and was the world record holder at the time she tested positive.

The verdict follows a lengthy legal battle that was partially delayed because Bahrain’s track federation stopped funding Jebet’s defense.

A disciplinary panel said Jebet offered contradictory explanations of how the EPO entered her system.

The verdict says she claimed she was

AUSANNE, Switzerland—The International Olympic Committee (IOC) will wait until after the Tokyo Olympics to publish new guidelines on transgender athletes that are meant to protect inclusivity, safety and fairness in sport.

The IOC had hoped to finish complex consultations ahead of this year’s Tokyo Games, where at least three transgender females could be among the 11,000 athletes. But it decided to wait in order to avoid disrupting qualifying events.

The IOC’s medical and scientific director, Richard Budgett, said Wednesday that changing the policy so close to Tokyo would not be “ethically or legally fair.”

Transgender women who could compete at

M

L RUTH JEBET tests positive for the staminaboosting drug EPO in a sample she gave in December 2017.

NHL keeping close eye on virus, limits employee travel B OCA RATON, Florida—The National Hockey League (NHL) is not allowing its employees to make work-related trips outside of North America in response to the global fears over the coronavirus, and if any of those employees go on their own to a country where the virus has been found they will be quarantined before being able to return to work.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said

Wednesday the league has told its 31 teams they were free to adopt a similar policy, though he stopped short of saying it would be a mandate as concerns of the virus continue to grow.

“We barred all travel outside of North America for business purposes,” Bettman said on the final day of general managers’ meetings. “People at a personal level or people in their households are still free to do what they want to do. If you go to

EEN sensation Alex Eala kicked off her pro career with a 1-6, 7-6, 3-2 (retired) victory over American-Venezuelan Nadia Echevarria Alam in the International Tennis Federation Women’s Future in Monastir, Tunisia, on Thursday.

The 14-year-old tennis prodigy struggled in the first set but quickly found her rhythm against the 25-year-old, world No. 772nd Alam.

Eala will meet tournament third seed Nina Stadler of Switzerland in the next round.

She jumped to No. 4 in the world junior rankings after her triumph with her Indonesian partner in the Australian Open.

She became the second Filipino to achieve the feat after Francis Alcantara partnered with Hsieh Chen-peng of Chinese Taipeito win the boys’ doubles crown in the 2009 Australian Open.

Ramon Rafael Bonilla

27 points, but fouled out in overtime. Lonzo Ball added 25, including shooting 7 of 9 on 3-pointers.

The Pelicans’ Nicolo Melli sent the game to overtime with a tying 3 with 7.4 seconds left after missing his first six 3s of the game.

The Mavericks led by as many as 11 in the first half, but New Orleans kept it close. Dallas led by two at the end of each of the first three quarters.

Williamson gave New Orleans its first lead at 75-73 when he drew contact with Maxi Kleber, who fell to the ground without a call, giving the Pelicans rookie a clear path for a dunk. AP

injected by a person “variously described by her as her husband or boyfriend” and that she said on different occasions that she had thought the substance was either vitamins or painkillers.

She also suggested that her former physiotherapist had misled her about the substance, though the panel found her allegations against him “somewhat bizarre” and “pregnant with unresolved questions.”

Jebet’s ban is dated from February 2018.

It doesn’t affect her gold medal from the 2016 Olympics because she won that before testing positive.

Jebet can appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. AP

EALA

a place that’s on the list of countries that have an issue or while you’re there the country comes on the list, then when you come back we want you quarantined, out of the office for two weeks until we can see if symptoms develop.”

That even applies to those who work for the NHL’s central scouting service: Scouts who are in Europe are staying in Europe, and if they return to North America they will be

quarantined. Bettman said the NHL is in regular communication with the other three major North American sports leagues, as well as health experts in both the U.S. and Canada.

Through Wednesday, there have been more than 94,000 confirmed cases of people contracting the virus worldwide, with more than 3,200 deaths.

“We’re constantly updating the clubs based on what we’re hearing from our experts and the

Tokyo include BMX freestyle rider Chelsea Wolfe of the United States, Brazilian volleyball player Tifanny Abreu and weightlifter Laurel Hubbard of New Zealand.

The IOC-led talks are separate from Caster Semenya’s legal case in Switzerland that challenges track and field’s rules on naturally high testosterone in female runners with “differences in sex development (DSD).”

The 800-meter champion from South Africa could get a ruling within weeks in an appeal case at the Swiss supreme court.

Budgett said the IOC listened to hundreds of athletes, doctors and human rights experts for input on guidelines that will help individual sports governing bodies decide their own rules.

CDC and Canada’s equivalent,” Bettman said. “It’s day by day. We’re going to continue to monitor things. It’s business as usual. We’re going to keep everybody completely informed.”

The NHL hasn’t gone as far as the NBA did earlier this week. The NBA sent a memo to teams on Sunday suggesting that players limit highfives with fans and be hesitant to touch markers and items in autograph-seeking situations.

Some NBA players have said they are stopping autographs altogether for the time being, and others are carrying their own markers to group-signing scrums. AP

UST slips past NU in UAAP football

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OOKIE Stephen Marasigan and goalie Ralph Logronio rose to the occasion to lift University of Santo Tomas (UST) to a 1-0 squeaker over National University (NU) in University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 82 men’s football action onThursday at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Marasigan, brought in as a substitute, delivered an instant impact with a fine strike in the 81st minute that turned out to be all the Golden Booters needed to snare the win.

It was the first goal of the season.

“At least, we got the win 1-0, even though the players played tightly,” UST coach Marjo Allado said.

“We need to reorganizethe team, especially on the players’ match fitness.”

Both sides went close to breaking the ice in the first half.

The Golden Booters were awarded a free kick right at the edge of the NU box near the end of the period, but Glen Ramos hit the goalpost.

On the other end in stoppage time, Bulldogs forward Angelo Paring was through on goal but his attempt his the side-netting.

A commotion broke out and the Bulldogs were cunning enough to take advantage with quick throwin. Rookie Bryan Ybanez was through on goal, but Logronio parried the Bulldog’s attempt.

Defending champion Nazareth School of NU and Far Eastern University-Diliman, meanwhile, begin their best-of-three boys’ basketball series at 3 p.m. on Friday at the Filoil Flying V Centre.

Adamson University and UST, on the other hand, clash in Game One of the league’s first-ever girls championship, also a best-of-three, at 12 noon.

“Somehow we have got to find a fair balance,” he said, between the views of transgender athletes who have faced harassment and those who argue it is unfair to allow women who transitioned to compete with physical advantages from being born male.

“Whatever is put in place will undoubtedly upset a lot of people,” Budgett told reporters at IOC headquarters.

He said the talks have been “a very difficult process, a very sensitive process, and there’s no easy answer.”

Previous guidelines from 2015 set a permitted level of testosterone level in serum at below 10 nanomoles per liter for one year. That had seemed likely be halved. AP BETTMAN

orts

sMirror

Friday, March 6, 2020

NESTHY PETECIO A VICTORY AWAY FROM TOKYO 2020 BERTH

GUIDO VAN DER VALK blows a huge lead with a floundering finish but hangs on to the lead with Clyde Mondilla making a significant stride in the second round on Thursday. NONIE REYES

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EIGNING women’s featherweight world champion Nesthy Petecio powered through to the quarterfinals with a convincing victory over Sri Lanka’s Krismi Lankapurayalage in day two of the Asia-Oceania PETECIO Olympic boxing qualifier on Wednesday in Amman, Jordan.

Petecio overpowered Lankapurayalage, 5-0, in the one-sided contest that luckily for the Sri Lankan, she avoided a knockout or a standing 8-count.

Petecio needs one more victory—against Japanese Sena Irie on Sunday—to secure a spot in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

“I focused on this tournament because this could be my last chance to become an Olympian,” the 27 yearold from Davao de Sur said.

Petecio, who also won gold in the 30th Southeast Asian Games last December, has an even 1-1 record with Irie.

Former Olympian Reynaldo Galido, who took over as women’s head coach from the indisposed Nolito Velasco, is confident about the Sunday showdown.

“Nesthy’s showing excellent signs of winning here.

The last time they fought, in last year’s worlds in Russia, Nesthy won 4-1 over the Sri Lankan. This time, it’s a shutout.”

Diminutive Riza Pasuit made it 3-of-3 for the Philippines following her 3-2 win over Saya Hamamoto of Japan in a lightweight match.

Pasuit doggedly stayed with the taller Japanese, exchanging punches and scoring repeatedly with clear right hooks and snappy combinations.

On Thursday, World Championships silver medalist Eumir Felix Marcial, the men’s middleweight top seed, sees action for the first time against Australia’s Kirra Ruston, who beat Hongkong’s Tai Leong Kan on Wednesday.

Lightweight James Palicte goes up against Elnur Abduraimov of Uzbekistan after drawing a bye in the first round of preliminaries.

Indonesia’s Aldoms Suguro beat Pakistan’s Muhammad Asif in the men’s flyweight also on Wednesday, setting up a second-round clash with Uzbekistan’s reigning Olympic gold medalist and world champion Shakhobidin Zoirov.

Thailand enjoyed a strong day with Sudaporn Seesondee upsetting China’s world silver medalist Wenlu Yang in women’s lightweight.

Thitisan Panmot dominated Bhutan’s Tashi Wangdi in men’s flyweight and Wuttichai Masuk ousted South Korea’s Hyunchul Lim in welterweight.

The event was initially set in Wuhan, China, but was relocated due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Thirty-five countries—221 boxers—are competing at the event that offers 41 men’s and 22 women’s berths for Tokyo 2020.

NAVYMEN BASK IN CYCLING GLORY

VAN DER VALK HANGS TOUGH

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UIDO VAN DER VALK stumbled at the finish but still held on to a two-stroke lead over a charging Clyde Mondilla despite a 74, enabling a host of others to stay in the hunt halfway through the rich The Country Club Invitational at the course in Santa Rosa, Laguna, on Thursday.

Bucking the heat and the wind that blustered rather late at the back for the second straight day, the Dutchman hit four birdies against two bogeys and threatened to pull away with a two-under card after 13 holes. But just when he thought he had the Tom Weiskoph-designed course all figured out, it bit back and he closed out with what he termed as a “shameful” finish—four bogeys in the last five holes.

From 6-up in one stretch, van der Valk saw his lead slash down to two with that 35-39 card and a one-over 145 as Mondilla endured a rollercoaster backside start to shoot a 70 and assume the challenger’s role at 147, well within sight of another TCC triumph following his breakthrough Solaire Philippine Open victory here last year.

“Bad finish,” rued the 40-year-old Van der

Valk. “But here at TCC, if you sort of start making a few bogeys, it’s so easy to keep on making them because there is not a single easy hole on this course. But making four bogeys in the last five is a shame.”

But TCC is simply living up to its toughness where survival is a major concern, a test not only of shotmaking but also, of will and character, and where the only predictable thing is its unpredictability.

Mondilla fought back strong from a harrowing 77 start but birdied two of the first four holes, yielded a stroke on No. 5 then went on a birdie-bogey-birdie-bogey-birdie roll to start the last nine holes and muffed a couple of birdie chances.

“My ball-striking was quite okay and hit all greens. But I struggled with my putting and missed a lot of chances,” said Mondilla, who headed straight to the practice green to polish his stroke as he steps up his drive for a crack at another major crown in this event put up by International Container Terminal Services Inc. President and chairman Ricky Razon in 2003 to honor the memory of his father and ICTSI founder Don Pocholo, himself an avid golfer.

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IGAN CITY—Team Philippine Navy-Standard Insurance swept the individual and team trophies of the 10th Ronda Pilipinas that ended on Wednesday, winning the domestic tour at the expense of at least two teams with international experience.

But going continental remains far in the horizon for the team composed of personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“It will be hard [to be a continental team] because the GHQ [General Headquarters] prohibits us to go on

character in every swirl of the wind.

Keanu Jahns shot the tournament-best 69 with a best-start ever made at TCC—four straight birdies. But like the rest of the select 30-player field, he wobbled the rest of the way although he gunned down two more birdies against three bogeys for that 32-37 for joint 11th at 152 with Spain’s Marcos Pastor, who double bogeyed the first two holes but eagled the parfive 10th to salvage a 74.

TEAM PHL TO SEAG HOISTS HIGHEST SPORTS AWARD T EAM Philippines basks in the glory of its amazing triumph in the 30th Southeast Asian Games, with the Games gold medalists hoisting the biggest trophy in the San Miguel Corp.-Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Annual Awards Night at the Centennial Hall of the historic Manila Hotel on Friday night.

Leading Team Philippines in receiving the coveted Athlete of the Year award are world champion and SEA Games double gold winner Carlos Yulo, women’s world boxing champion Nesthy Petecio and Olympic silver medalist

Hidilyn Diaz.

Top sports officials led by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, International Olympic Committee (IOC) representative to the Philippines Mikee Cojuangco Jaworski, and Deputy House Speaker and NorthPort team owner Mikee Romero join the country’s oldest media organization headed by its president, Manila Bulletin sports editor Tito Talao, in honoring the men and women who did the country proud in their respective

MEMBERS and supporters of the victorious Philippine Navy-Standard Insurance team—including sportsman Ernesto “Judes” Echauz—savor their conquest during the awarding ceremony on Wednesday.

By Ramon Rafael Bonilla

Two thousand four champion Tony Lascuña, multititled Jay Bayron and young Rupert Zaragosa all pooled 148s after matching 73s while erstwhile second-running Ira Alido, likewise, stayed in contention at 150 after a 76 marred by back-to-back closing bogeys.

The diminutive Zaragosa eagled No. 10 and birdied the 13th to offset a bogey on the first and earned a shot at the lead with one-over overall card. But he dropped three straight strokes from No. 14 and ended up with that 73.

Unheralded Albin Engino, who opened with a 76 Wednesday, birdied three of the first six holes in impressive fashion but made a triplebogey on the par-4 No. 7 then bogeyed three of the next nine before drilling a birdie on No. 17 to save a 74 and tie Alido at sixth.

Despite assembling identical 151s, Jhonnel Ababa (72), Michael Bibat (73) and Reymon Jaraula (73) still got a shot at the top P1.5 million purse in this kickoff leg of the 2020 Philippine Golf Tour, given the course conditions and where each hole varies in

overseas trips on a regular basis,” Navy Head Coach Reinhard Gorantes said. “But if they will allow us, and our sponsor gives us the chance, we will surely get it.”

George Oconer joined the roster of fabled tour winners with his general classification victory that became imminent after Stage 4 of the 10-stage race, towing with him his fellow Navymen to the team championship.

The Navymen emerged best team with a flourish, beating continental teams Go For Gold, which wound up second more than half-an-hour behind, and 7-Eleven-Cliqq-air21,

which finished fourth behind Army Bicycology, a squad composed of 30-something riders.

Both Go For Gold and 7-Eleven riders compete abroad in no less than five International Cycling Union (UCI) races a year.

A continental team is a professional squad registered with the UCI and obliged to race in UCI-calendared races in various countries.

So dominant were the Navymen that they made Standard Insurance Group Chairman Ernesto “Judes” Echauz even prouder by occupying the first six spots in the overall general classification—

fields in 2019.

The revered Efren “Bata” Reyes, a major member of Team Philippines to the SEA Games at 65 years old, will be the special guest speaker in the gala night presented by the PSC, Milo and Cignal TV. The legendary pool icon will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the sportswriting fraternity.

A record haul of 149 gold, 117 silver and 121 bronze medals propelled the Philippines to the overall title of the biennial multisport competition for the second time after 2005 since the country joined the SEA Games 42 years ago.

The collective effort that gained for Team Philippines the unanimous nod for the prestigious Athlete of the Year trophy in the twohour program also supported by the Philippine Basketball Association, AirAsia and Rain or Shine.

Citations will be given to all gold-medal winners in the SEA Games—they make up the bulk of the close to 200 awardees on the 2019 honor roll.

Also invited in the annual event, to be hosted by veteran broadcaster Sev Sarmenta and Rizza Diaz, is House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, chairman of the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee.

Yulo, who earned a berth to the Tokyo Olympics after becoming the first Filipino and male gymnast from Southeast Asia to win a gold in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, will also be accorded the President’s Award, while Ramirez will be honored with the Executive of the Year honors for his duty as Team Philippines chef de mission to the SEA Games.

The Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippine headed by Ricky Vargas will receive

Oconer, Ronald Oranza, Ronald Lomotos, John Mark Camingao, Junrey Navarra and El Joshua Carino in that order.

Three of the four individual awards went to Navy—Morales in Points and Cariño in Mountain—with only Carino’s younger, Daniel Ven of Go For Gold, grabbing the Under 23 trophy.

Philippine Navy-Standard Insurance has made its mark in cycling with the elder Cariño winning the Le Tour de Filipinas, a UCI Category 2 race, in 2018; and Jermyn Prado bagging the women’s individual time trial gold medal in the 30th Southeast Asian Games last December.

the National Sports Association of the Year title, while special awards will be given to Thirdy Ravena and Jack Danielle Animam (Mr. and Ms. Basketball), Bryan Bagunas and Sisi Rondina (Mr. and Ms. Volleyball), Bianca Pagdanganan (Ms. Golf), Stephan Schrock (Mr. Football) and a firstever Coach of the Year to multititled women’s mentor Patrick Aquino.

A separate Milo Junior Athlete of the Year awardwill be handed out to Alex Eala, Daniela Dela Pisa, Miguel Barreto and Daniel Quizon, while the Philippine men’s 3x3 basketball team will be recognized with the Chooks-To-Go Fan Favorite award.

Diaz and Petecio meanwhile, banner the list of major awardees that also include Tokyo Olympic qualifier and Asian Athletics Championships gold winner Ernest John Obiena, world boxing champions Jerwin Ancajas and Johnriel Casimero, five-time Philippine Basketball Association MVP June Mar Fajardo, five-time Philippine Cup champion San Miguel Beer, undefeated six-time University Athletic Association of the Philippines women’s basketball title holder National University and golfers Juvic Pagunsan, Princess Superal and Aidric Chan, as well as the Horse of the Year Union Bell.

Swimmers Micaela Jasmine Mojdeh and Marc Bryant Dula join Eala, and six others who will receive the Tony Siddayao awards that is named after the late Manila Standard sports editor Tony Siddayao, acknowledged as the Dean of Philippine sportswriting, and given to promising athletes aged 17 or younger.

Also to be remembered with a prayer departed athletes, officials, and friends of the PSA. Those who failed to personally receive their Awards Night invitations could get theirs at the reception area of the Centennial Hall.

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SLOW DAY FOR S’WOODS

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ANILA Southwoods couldn’t dominate on a day it was supposed to be playing an easier course, shooting just 115 points at Binitin in Murcia town on Thursday to allow two Founders Division bets to creep into contention for the overall championship of the 73rd Philippine Airlines Interclub Men’s tournament in Bacolod City.

Sean Ramos scored a four-over-par 74 worth 32 points as Southwoods tallied 237 after 36 holes, just three points ahead of Forest Hills and seven in front of another Founders entry in Tagaytay Highlands, and regular Championship division bet Del Monte.

The Bukidnon-based squad made the biggest move of the day by shooting 124, also at Binitin, after Romeo Jaraula shot 35 and Crispin Aparilla accounted for 32, even as defending overall champion Cebu CC faded even more with just 109 points at Marapara to be 12 off Southwoods and nine behind Forest Hills in the Founders class.

Tournament format counts any team coming from the lower divisions as eligible to win the overall title.

But with tournament organizers penciling the schedule for the Championship and Founders classes on different courses the whole week, they won’t be playing side-by-side in the last two rounds.

“I just think that it’s unfair for all of the teams in contention, because we will all be playing under different conditions,” Southwoods nonplaying captain Thirdy Escano, after getting 29 points each from Kristoffer Arevalo and Masaichi Otake and 25 from Jun Jun Plana, said.

Iñigo Raymundo suited up for the second straight day and led Forest Hills with 34 points, with former US NCAA standout Jude Eustaquio accounting for 30 to make up the bulk of the club’s second round 116 points.

Jenz Tecson scored 30 points and Jolo Magcalayo 29 for Tagaytay Highlands, which pooled a second straight 115 to wheel into contention with a 230 aggregate like Del Monte.

Bayani Garcia fired 34 points and Harvey Sytiongsa scored 30 for Cebu CC, which is trying to become the first team to win this coming from a lower bracket for the second time after pulling it out last year on home soil.

Lim kicks off Davis Cup bid vs Greek world No. 6 Tsitsipas

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HE Philippines plays David when it battles the Goliath Greece led by world No. 6 Stefanos Tsitsipas in their Davis Cup World Group II playoff tie at the Philippine Columbian Association’s Plaza Dilao courts starting on Friday in Paco, Manila.

AJ Lim, 20, drew Tsitsipas in the opening singles at 10 a.m., while Jeson Patrombon clashes with Tsitsipas’s younger brother Petros.

Lim is the underdog against Tsitsipas, who is riding the crest of a runner-up finish to Novak Djokovic in Dubai over the weekend.

Lim could draw strength from the fact that he once defeated Tsitsipas in a doubles tournament in their junior days.

But that was eons ago as the 21-year-old Tsitsipas had won four titles since turning pro to zoom to the top 10 in the world.

“It was in the past and very long time ago,” Lim said. “I will just give it my best when we play tomorrow [Friday].”

For Tsitsipas, he will not take Lim lightly.

“We’ll just take it match by match,” said Tsitsipas, who at 6-foot-4 towers above the 5-foot-7 Lim. Francis Casey Alcantara and Ruben Gonzales will team up as they tackle Petros Tsitsipas and Markos Kalovelonis in the doubles on Saturday.

The reverse singles will pit Lim and Patrombon against the Tsitsipas brothers on Sunday.

This will be the first time that the Filipinos are clashing with a non-Asian country since the Felix Barrientos-led squad battled the Swedes in World Group Qualifiers 29 years ago.

THE protagonists in the tie pose for posterity. They are (from left) the Philippines’s Ruben Gonzales, Alberto Lim Jr., Francis Alcantara, Jeson Patrombon, Jed Olivarez and captain Cris Cuatro; and Greece’s captain Dimitris Chatzinikolaou,Stefanos Tsitsipas, Marcos Kalovelonis, Michail Pervolarakis and Petros Tsitsipas. ROY DOMINGO

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BU DHABI, United Arab Emirates—Six more people with links to the canceled UAE Tour cycling race have been infected with the virus spreading around the world.

The Ministry of Health in the United Arab Emirates said in a statement that two Russians, two Italians, one German and one Colombian have been diagnosed with the virus. They were all linked to two previous cases involving Italians, it said.

Rider Igor Boev of the Gazprom-RusVelo team told Russian news agency RIA Novosti that he was in the hospital after being diagnosed. Boev said he was waiting for more test results and said the hospital food was “more than fine for a normal person but not enough for a pro rider.”

Riders from other teams are staying in isolation in case they develop symptoms. Arnaud Demare of Groupama-FDJ posted a video of makeshift fitness routines in his hotel room and eating food delivered in a paper bag.

The International Cycling Union said Abu Dhabi authorities ordered riders and staff from Groupama-FDJ, Gazprom-RusVelo and Cofidis to be isolated until March 14. They’re all staying on the same floor of a hotel.

Cofidis team President Thierry Vittu said Wednesday it was a relief to have a deadline for when riders and staff could leave, even if it’s still some time away.

“Now we know where we stand, and even if the confinement in the room continues, everyone will manage to find occupations, distractions, activities,” he said on the team web site. “We are going to stay in solidarity with each other, conscious that we are living a collective adventure, that we would have liked not to live, but which will teach us about ourselves and others.

We already tell ourselves that in a few months, we will be laughing about it among ourselves.”

The last two stages of the UAE Tour were canceled on February 28 after two virus cases among team staff members. British rider Adam Yates was declared the winner because he was leading after the first five stages.

Team Ineos, the British powerhouse that includes Tour de France winners Chris Froome and Geraint Thomas, announced it was pulling out of all races until the start of the Volta a Catalunya on March 23, citing both the uncertainty surrounding the virus outbreak and the death of former rider Nicolas Portal.

In Italy, the government declared that all sporting events for the next month must take place without fans, while soccer officials said the second leg of the Italian Cup semifinals between Napoli and Inter Milan scheduled for Thursday in Naples has been postponed indefinitely.

The other semifinal match, Juventus-AC Milan, scheduled for Wednesday had already been postponed.

Ten Serie A matches scheduled over the past two weekends have also been postponed.

German soccer club Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday canceled a preseason tour of Asia because of the virus outbreak, while some fans have been asked not to attend a Bundesliga game this weekend.

Dortmund apologized to fans in Asia, saying that the planned tour of China and other countries couldn’t go ahead because it is “not possible to make safe travel arrangements.”

Dortmund is to play at title challenger Borussia Mönchengladbach on Saturday. That is the closest Bundesliga team to the area of Heinsberg, where a cluster of virus cases have been reported.

Following talks with regional government officials, Gladbach said the game would go ahead but asked fans from Heinsberg not to attend. They will be offered a refund and a free ticket to a European home game next season.

The French league is trying to reduce players’ physical contact at games. The league said players won’t have to shake hands with their opponents, and the players and referee will hold child mascots by the shoulders, not by the hands.

In tennis, players will have to handle their own towels at an Italy-South Korea Davis Cup qualifier scheduled for this weekend—freeing ball kids of the duty.

The match in Cagliari, Sardinia, could be called off or

VIRUS INFECTS MORE CYCLISTS

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played in an empty stadium, however.

“We’re awaiting government orders,” Italy captain Corrado Barazzutti said. “We’ll play if we can. We’ll play without fans if they tell us to. And we won’t play if they tell us not to.”

The International Boxing Association (Aiba) postponed its congress from March 20 to June 20, citing concerns by Hungarian authorities about delegates from countries with virus cases. The Hungarian capital of Budapest remains the host despite the delay.

Italian sports to take place without fans until April 3 ILAN—All sporting events in Italy will take place without fans present for at least the next month due to the virus outbreak in the country, the Italian government announced on Wednesday.

That will likely see the Italian soccer league resume in full this weekend with the calendar pushed back a week.

Italy is the epicenter of Europe’s coronavirus outbreak.

More than 100 people have died and more than 3,000 have been infected with COVID-19.

The Italian government issued a new decree on Wednesday evening, with measures it hopes will help contain the spread of the virus.

All sporting events throughout the country must take place without fans present until April 3. Schools and universities have been ordered to close until March 15.

Premier Giuseppe Conte posted a five-minute video on his Facebook page, reassuring people and saying that the decree was a way of assuring “responsible behavior.”

He said banning crowds at sporting events would help “prevent further opportunities of infection.”

Key games during the period includes Juventus’ Champions League game against Lyon. The second leg of the round-of-16 match is scheduled for March 17 in Turin.

Inter Milan and Roma also have Europa League games scheduled, against Getafe and Sevilla, respectively. Inter played Ludogrets inside an empty stadiu m last week in the previous Europa League round.

The decree also calls into question Italy’s Six Nations rugby match against England in Rome on March 14. That match will either have to go ahead in an empty stadium or be postponed. Italy’s match against Ireland, which was scheduled for March 7, had already been postponed.

In tennis, Italy is set to play South Korea in a Davis Cup qualifier this weekend in Cagliari, Sardinia.

The Italian soccer federation confirmed in a statement that all Serie A and Italian Cup matches would be played without fans for the duration of the decree.

The Italian soccer league’s governing body has yet to release a revised schedule but reports say the six Serie A

Sports

THE pack pedals during the fourth stage of the Tour of United Arab Emirates from Zabeel Park to Dubai City Walk in late February. AP

soccer matches that were postponed last week will now be played this weekend. That includes one of the biggest matches of the season—the Juventus-Inter game, known as the “Derby d’Italia” or Italy’s derby.

Inter’s match against Sampdoria was one of four matches postponed the previous weekend. And the club’s president Steven Zhang is facing disciplinary action for insulting Serie A president Paolo Dal Pino in an Instagram post reacting to the way the Italian league is handling the fallout from the virus outbreak.

Inter chief executive Giuseppe Marotta also publicly criticized the league but tempers appeared to have cooled

by Wednesday.

“Playing in empty stadiums could be the only way to keep the league going until the end in light of the restrictions that the government is rightly indicating,” Marotta said after a meeting at the Serie A headquarters in Rome, but before the decree was announced.

Four Serie A matches went ahead last weekend with fans present as they were taking place in areas that had not been affected by measures to control the outbreak.

A decree on Sunday extended the suspension of all sporting events in Lombardy, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna until March 8. The region of Lombardy is the epicenter of Italy’s outbreak and there are further clusters in the other two northern regions. AP

FAN TIME

Gabriel Barbosa of Brazil’s Flamengo listens to a young fan who walks into the pitch at the end of Flamengo’s Copa Libertadores match against Colombia’s Junior at the Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez Stadium in Barranquilla, Colombia, on Wednesday. AP

The congress was a key step for the association, known as AIBA, to restore confidence after years of infighting and financial crises.

AIBA was barred last year from running the Tokyo Olympic boxing tournament after the International Olympic Committee criticized its leadership, and questioned the integrity of its judging and refereeing.

AIBA said interim President Mohamed Moustahsane, a former ringside doctor, would remain in office until the new June congress. AP MBAPPÉ

Mbappé hat trick as PSG routs Lyon to reach French Cup final

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YLIAN MBAPPÉ’S hat trick and Neymar’s assured penalty helped Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) win 5-1 at Lyon on Wednesday to reach a sixth straight French Cup final.

Winger Pablo Sarabia added the other goal for PSG, which lost last year’s final to Rennes on penalty kicks. Rennes is at struggling Saint-Étienne in Thursday’s second semifinal.

Mbappé’s second goal, with 20 minutes remaining, came in the form of a stunning run from deep inside his half followed by a sharp move inside a bamboozled defender and a firm strike past goalie goalkeeper Anthony Lopes. His first and third goals were tap-ins.

Neymar sent Lopes the wrong way from the spot with a staggered run-up after Lyon defender Marcal

needlessly conceded the penalty. He handled Mbappé’s cross from the left, which was destined for Edinson Cavani, and was sent off for a second yellow card.

As Neymar prepared to take the kick in the 64th, he

complained to the referee that a laser from the crowds was being shone in his eyes. He then casually placed a low shot past Lopes.

Objects were thrown from the home crowd at Neymar, who picked them up and juggled with them. Neymar was partially to blame for Lyon’s opening goal in the 11th, pulling out of a tackle in midfield.

Lyon moved the ball to forward Karl Toko-Ekambi, whose low cross from the right was turned in by the alert Martin Terrier. But the lead lasted only three minutes as PSG left back Layvin Kurzawa headed on a corner and Mbappé poked it in at the back post.

Poor Lyon defending in injury time enabled PSG to break from near its own defense, with Neymar helping set up Mbappé to beat Lopes at the second attempt.

Players and officials did not shake hands before the game, following new precautionary measures against the virus spreading around the world.

Pre-match protocol has been modified in France to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, which by Wednesday had claimed the lives of four people among more than 250 nationwide cases. AP

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God of salvation

OD of salvation, You alone conquer death with life. In confidence we pray: Lead us to Your light, oh God. Open our hearts and minds to the Scripture, and help us to make time for prayer and silence.

Help us to recognize You in the Word, in the breaking of the bread and in one another. Bring all the faithful departed to eternal life with You. May God shower us with blessings and strengthen us in faith, hope, and love, through Jesus our saving hope. Amen.

GIVE US THIS DAY SHARED BY LUISA LACSON, HFL Word&Life Publications • teacherlouie1965@yahoo.com

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • lifestylebusinessmirror@gmail.com

Life BusinessMirror

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Today’s Horoscope

By Eugenia Last

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Shaquille O’Neal, 48; Connie Britton, 53; D.L. Hughley, 57; Rob Reiner, 73.

UNILEVER CEO Benjie Yap and Pia Wurtzbach

STORES Specialists Inc. Head of Marketing Communications Mich Suarez

CREAM Silk Senior Brand Manager Raiza Revilla and Unilever Marketing Director for Haircare Ann Estevez

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: You’ve got more going for you than you realize. Don’t be afraid to try something new or to do things differently. Follow the path that calls to you, not the one everybody else is taking. You’ll gain respect if you stand independent and determined to make a difference. Your choice of words and your actions will make a difference. Your lucky numbers are 1, 9, 17, 22, 33, 42, 45.

a

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Be secretive about how much you are worth or how in debt you are. Set a goal and don’t discuss your plans until you are satisfied with your progress. Pour your energy into physically making things happen. Your tenacity will pay off. HHH

b

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Open discussions are in your best interest. If something concerns you, bring it to the attention of the people involved and make suggestions that can encourage better relationships, as well as future prospects. HHH

c

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Getting involved in something will lead to disappointment.

Don’t let anyone take advantage of you. New acquaintances will turn out to be more of a drain than an asset. Avoid insult, injury and arguments. Be secretive regarding personal changes. HHH

ISSA LITTON (from left), Edukasyon.ph CEO and founder Henry Motte-Muñoz, Anne Gauthier and Michiko Soriano

d

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Socializing with your colleagues will help you get ahead.

Share ideas with your peers. A united front will encourage success. Personal gains and updating your image are favored. Romance will lead to a better relationship with someone special. HHHHH

ALEX GODINEZ and Ria Atayde

e

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Look over your investments, assets and possessions, and see where you can cut costs or budget your lifestyle to fit your income. Be smart and less willing to give in to the selfish demands being put on you. HH

f

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Partnerships should be your priority. Taking care of pressing matters before they have a chance to escalate will save you a lot of time and help you avoid an argument. Be open to suggestions and share your thoughts. HHHH

g RACHEL PETERS, Patricia Henson and Michelle Gumabao

FATIMA RABAGO, Amina Aranaz-Alunan and Pauline Juan

NADINE LUSTRE with Unilever Head of PR Apples Aberin

Conditioning for greatness

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N a once male-dominated society where women had to work twice as hard to get the recognition they deserved, the modern world is finally starting to empower women to take center stage. Now, more women are realizing their potential and beginning to step up to find opportunities for greatness. This was the central theme of Cream Silk’s latest event, #ConditionedForGreater.

Celebrating the modern Filipina woman, the haircare brand partnered with Edukasyon.Ph to launch Conditioned for Great Academy—a collection of free online courses created to be accessible to anyone. Both the event and the project focused on encouraging women to excel at what they do and not settle for anything less.

Cream Silk ambassadors Heart Evangelista, Pia Wurtzbach, Catriona Gray, and Nadine Lustre kicked off the event and invited some of the most successful Filipino women onstage to talk about their career journeys, including Emmy Award-winning journalist from CNN and president of Nine Media Corp. Armie

Jarin Bennett.

“If defining your purpose is the start, trying to be great is the finish line,” Bennett shared with the audience. She described the simple beginnings of her career where she spent most hours behind the camera, doing administrative work. She underscored that entry-level of jobs are not to be underestimated, as it is then that people find their purpose in the long career path ahead.

Often, one of the biggest setbacks of one’s career can be spurred by self-doubt. As Unilever Vice President for Beauty and Personal Care Dorothy Dee-Ching stated, a study revealed that a shocking 7 out of 10 Filipinas feel like they have settled in their careers because of a lack of skills, means and opportunities.

In a panel discussion facilitated by renowned fashion designer Amina Aranaz-Alunan, Citem executive director Pauline Juan, and social entrepreneur Lynn Pinugu, they spoke about selfdoubt in their careers and how they overcame it.

Having all come from cutthroat industries, the

women agreed these feelings of insecurity are natural and come from the fear of failure and judgment.

However, in order to succeed, they had to let go of their apprehensions and use it as fuel to reach their maximum potential.

“Reframe the way you see failure and setbacks as a way to learn. It’s an opportunity for feedback and way for you to strategize,” Pinugu said. Although fear is inevitable and failures are a possibility, Filipinas have to take the leap of faith and continue on to their journey. It is only then that they can learn and reach their potential.

Companies like Cream Silk (www.creamsilk.com. ph) and the inspiring women that were part of the #ConditionedForGreater event have always been a strong advocates of encouraging the Filipino woman to strive for greatness.

In this modern era, it is time for women to finally break through their own self-doubts, make waves and transform society in their chosen path. It is only when more Filipinas catalyze this change that future generations will reach for their fullest potential. n

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Discipline and hard work will pay off. Use your energy to get ahead, not to argue with someone who is trying to slow you down. Be specific and concentrate on what’s important to you. A personal change will do you good. HHH

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SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Take a chance and enjoy the ride. Your insight, intensity and determination coupled with your beliefs and integrity will help you crush anyone who stands in your way. Live life to the fullest and enjoy what you love to do most. HHH

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): No matter how hard you try, you’ll meet with complaints and discord. The only way to handle people who are giving you a hard time is with diplomacy. Listen and offer a reasonable solution. HHH

j

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Show stability and you will gain respect. If opportunity knocks, a chance to get ahead should not be ignored. Negotiate on your own behalf and don’t be afraid to ask for what you are worth. HHHH

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Be careful who you share your emotions with.

Someone is likely to leak information if you are too trusting, putting you in a vulnerable position. If you want to make a personal change, stop talking and start making it happen. HH

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PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Charm and diplomacy will help you get your way. Less talk and more action will make a difference to the outcome of any situation that requires you to work with others. HHHHH BIRTHDAY BABY: You are selective, original and compassionate.

You are sensitive and perceptive.

‘nonstarter’ BY AMY SCHECTER The Universal Crossword/Edited by David Steinberg

ACROSS 1 Head of the college one attended?

5 Reputation, slangily 9 Cut up, in Bio 101 13 Superman character Lane 14 Helper on the Hill 15 In good health 16 Taking of land, say 19 Flower that may be purple 20 Blender filler 21 Spotted wildcat 23 Picnic spoiler 24 Shape with no straight edges 25 Gross 28 Pheasant hunter’s pooch 32 The Little Mermaid princess 33 Type of type 34 Egg cells 35 Told a whopper 36 Something to grow out of 38 Article-clipping sound 39 Fall behind 40 J.Lo’s partner 41 Do penance

2 Jim’s role in The Big Bang Theory 4 44 Found out 46 Roof overhang 47 Poetic “before long” 48 Seed type that often gets stuck in your teeth 51 Paintings and sculptures 55 Trim, as a photo 56 Releasing from class, or a hint to the starred answers?

58 Water, in Quito 59 Nonbinary pronoun 60 Costar of SVU 61 Skew 62 “Auld Lang ___” 63 ___ Candies (California-based chain) DOWN 1 European ski destination 2 Fruit of the ___ 3 Edible Japanese paste 4 Like some truffles in boxes 5 Return one’s chips 6 Getting up 7 Emmy winner Falco

8 “Gloria in excelsis ___” 9 Knight’s protection 10 Noble rank that’s also a first name 11 Muse of history 12 Teacher’s writing assignment?

17 Online business 18 Potential nun 22 Irene of Fame 24 Kimono sashes 25 Vexes 26 “David Copperfield” clerk 27 Military blockade 29 One may fund a scholarship 30 Sheepish 31 Stared in wonder 33 Word after “sketch” or “stamp” 36 Demonstrated the validity of 37 Sharpen 38 Spinal affliction 40 Driver of Marriage Story 41 Swears 43 Accept eagerly 44 Fictional superthief Sandiego 45 Unlike many subways, sadly

8 “Shoo!”

4 49 And so 50 Go bad, as relations 51 Like skin that needs lotion 52 Brown or white food 53 ___-high socks 54 Cpls.’ superiors 57 Part of TGIF Solution to yesterday’s puzzle:

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Relationships BusinessMirror

Friday, March 6, 2020

Pursuing the path to profitability

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INANCIAL-WISE, we’ve all had our good and bad years. We immediately recall the terrific times when there were a lot of funds to go around, when it seemed that we could go on endless family vacations here and abroad, or just buy the next new fashion statement introduced in the market, with a just enough leftover to tuck away in our nest eggs.

The years of financial inadequacy, we’d like to forget—when there were just too many mounting unexpected expenses that made us feel so hard up; when we ended up swiping the credit card much too often, or ran to our parents, siblings or friends to borrow money to just tide us over until the next pay check. (Or worse, the next job.)

When those difficult days of financial despair come around, it’s advisable to sit down, gather our thoughts by writing down our expenses versus our income, then make a plan for action.

I remember a time in my youth when I was so overwhelmed with debt, I literally froze my credit cards. Yes! I wrapped each card tightly in plastic, put all in a sealed ziplock bag, and submerged them in a small Tupperware filled with water, then stuck the container in the freezer, turning it into a block of ice.

Those babies stayed in the freezer for almost a year.

It becomes easier to pay off those debts when one doesn’t incur any more. And I always made it a point (even to this day) to pay more than the minimum payment that was due. (These days, I use my credit card only when traveling abroad, or as “bridge financing,” i.e., paying for much-needed products or items, while waiting for payday. And almost always, when the card debt comes a calling, I try to pay said expenses, bought on credit in full.)

I also stopped eating out. No matter how tempting a restaurant’s menu was, or how tired I was from the day’s events or work, I would go home and cook my own food. Or if immensely exhausted, there would be a bottle of sardines in the cupboard to open and eat with rice. (Sardines and tinned chicken Vienna sausage are usually my go-to “emergency food,” so when I have extra funds, I buy a bottle/can or two for those difficult days.)

When money is tight, going to the supermarket becomes tricky. There are just so many items that one needs to avoid, so it’s always a good idea to write down a list of must-purchase items. When on a limited budget, the snack food aisle is a definite no-go zone.

Also, I would only choose one protein (either pork, fish/seafood or beef) for the week, and while I go around pushing my cart, there I was already thinking of the most minimal recipes for that protein of the week, so I wouldn’t have to buy any fancy ingredients.

Shopping in department stores or specialty retail

shops was also a definite no-no! I physically steered away of my favorite clothing and shoe shops. And if I absolutely needed to buy something, because, say, I had an upcoming dressy affair, I plowed into my cabinet looking for old outfits to reuse, or readjusted to my size. Or I headed straight to a clothing store’s sales bin. (Today, I hardly buy new clothes or shoes unless the stores are on sale. Only when I have extra funds do I indulge in my “go-crazy-and-buyanything” mode.)

Entertainment was kept to a minimum. Unless there was a huge must-see movie, I would avoid the movie house. Our cable TV channels show enough films or TV series, it’s not difficult to choose to stay at home to veg on the sofa instead. (These days, Netflix is really the cheaper entertainment alternative; for less than P500 a month, we have a pick of any TV anthologies, feature films, documentaries, comedy shows, reality TV series and cartoons, which we can watch at our own pace. On the other hand, the cheapest movie ticket these days is P300. And that’s just for one movie.)

Gimmicking with friends or catching meals with them were also kept to a minimum, unless one of them volunteered to pick up the tab. The great thing about real friends are, you can be upfront with them about your financial status without being judged.

I would imagine that if we, individuals, take the

time to tighten our belts and look for ways to cut down expenses when funds are difficult to come by, companies which find themselves in similar dire financial straits will do the same and more.

Unfortunately, in many family-run corporations, especially here in the Philippines, one of the most obvious mistakes a business owner is wont to make is to hire deadwood relatives who lack the skills or intelligence to contribute to the actual improvement of the company’s well-being.

Instead of leaving the firm to professional managers, some business owners to this day still choose family members to run things because the latter are supposed to be more trustworthy and won’t steal from the company coffers. Because, well, “blood is thicker than water.” Of course, one only needs to Google “thieving relatives” or “family fraud” to show news stories of family-owned firms brought down by the relatives.

So it’s really important to choose the right professional manager to run the company, especially one that is undergoing restructuring. Of course, cutting expenses should be one of the firm’s major goals.

For instance, management can rule out extravagant client parties even as they cut down the work force, or retrench the laborers. Or the CEO foregoes his usual début-like birthday celebrations,

while his loyal lieutenants try to find more ways to earn profit from new products.

Companies have more choices to right themselves up into profitability. Unlike individuals, they can take in new partners to infuse the necessary capital, or take out a loan to invest in creating a new consumer item or idea or, say, purchase that new equipment that promises to cut down on manufacturing expenses in the long-run. (If in debt, they can always ask the bank to restructure their loans and ask for better payment terms.)

Management can also encourage the marketing or sales staff to create cost-efficient, innovative plans to hawk their company’s products to would-be customers, and outsell their competition.

And while layoffs are always an option for a company to return to profitability, perhaps it should really be only the last path to be pursued.

I remember a news story in 2007, about the then-CEO of Japan Airlines, Haruka Nishimatsu, who slashed his own salary and received less than the carrier’s pilots. It was a move that was wellappreciated by the employees because it made them feel that their boss empathized with their difficult work conditions, and gave them more importance over his own financial comfort.

I wonder how many CEOs of troubled companies in our country would do the same? n

Superhero dad supporting community heroes in earthquake-affected North Cotabato

By Marge Francia “IT’S good I was home that night, or else I don’t know if my family would have survived.” Reyland Pepito was cooking dinner for his family the night of October 16 when the first in a series of strong earthquakes rocked Makilala, North Cotabato. He remembers running from the kitchen to the living room while the doors and walls of the house crumbled, burying his wife and two children inside.

“It was completely dark, so I used my phone as a flashlight. I tried to find my wife and children. I found them buried under the debris and got them out. We were trapped, I couldn’t open the door, but I managed to get them out somehow,” Reyland continued.

Once he managed to get them outside, Reyland realized the extent of his injury. His right foot had been badly hit by a door and he could no longer stand.

His family shouted for help and his neighbors used the very same door as a stretcher.

NEIGHBORS TO THE RESCUE SANTO NINO, Purok 2 Barangay Captain Glenn Romero was the one who helped Reyland get to the hospital and facilitate financial support for his medical expenses. “My neighbors and I carried Reyland to the hospital. In this community we do bayanihan [community spirit]. We’ve all lost our homes.

The families here need all the help they can get,” he says.

Reyland was able to get the medical care to mend his leg, all the while worrying about how he could provide for his family. His employer at the rubber plantation allowed his wife to take his place while he watched over the children. His children, even at their tender age, bring him comfort and support.

UNICEF WASH Officer Rasul Abdullah hands over construction materials to a resident in Makilala, North Cotabato. Earthquake affected families whose toilets were damaged or destroyed receive toilet repair kits containing toilet bowls, cement, roofing and other construction materials.

UNICEF PHILIPPINES/2020/FRANCIA

“My children tell me, ‘Papa, be strong and don’t let sadness get you down, you’ll get well soon.’ Despite everything that happened to my family, there are many people who didn’t abandon us and continue to support us until now,” he adds.

NO-BUILD ZONE THE village has been declared a no-build zone, so the

families are now living in an evacuation camp. Living in an open space in tents presents many challenges to the families, especially when it comes to keeping themselves healthy and free from sickness.

To help families, like Reyland’s, through this period of recovery, Unicef, through support from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), responds to needs in Child Protection, Health and

Nutrition; Water, Sanitation and Hygiene; and Education. For WASH, apart from establishing water points in camps, Unicef also provides children with three liters of water a day for drinking and handwashing. Hygiene kits containing soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, towels and sanitary napkins are also distributed to the families.

To prevent diseases, Unicef conducts hygiene promotion and focus group discussions to help keep communities healthy.

Families whose toilets were damaged are given hardware supplies, such as toilet bowls, cement, doors, steel bars and nails.

So far, Unicef has reached 4,123 families with hygiene messages; provided 3,000 families with hygiene and dignity kits; gave 552 families access to sanitary latrines and handwashing facilities in evacuation centers; provided 232 home-based with household latrine repair kits; and reached 400 families with improved access to safe water.

“People affected by disasters are more at risk to diseases especially diarrhoea, which can be lifethreatening for children. We need to make sure that risks of water-borne diseases are reduced and give this high priority as part of our emergency response,” Rasul Abdullah, Unicef WASH Officer says.

‘BAYANIHAN’ SPIRIT IN Purok 2, residents are now benefiting from 14 toilets, a bathing facility or laundry area and a water point. As the community waits for their relocation, they help each other recover and rebuild their lives.

“We appreciate the help that Unicef has given us.

We like the toilet because it is well-constructed. This is a big deal for us in Purok 2. We want to thank all the people who helped us,” the village captain said.

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VIN DIESEL stars as Ray Garrison, a soldier recently killed in action and brought back to life as the superhero Bloodshot by the RST Corporation.

Steven Seagal fined

by SEC for touting token offering

By Matt Robinson Bloomberg News STEVEN SEAGAL may have starred in Above the Law, but it turns out he isn’t in real life.

The 67-year-old Hollywood actor, who also appeared in Under Siege, became the latest celebrity punished by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for failing to disclose that he was being paid to promote a digital token.

Seagal was promised $250,000 in cash and $750,000 worth of tokens for touting an initial coin offering (ICO) from a company called Bitcoiin2Gen, the SEC said in a Thursday statement. In socialmedia posts, Seagal urged fans not to miss out on the token offering. A press release also identified him as Bitcoiin2Gen’s brand ambassador.

He agreed to settle the SEC’s allegations without admitting or denying wrongdoing, and will pay a $157,000 fine and the same amount in disgorgement, the regulator said.

REPRESENTING RUSSIA SEAGAL now lives in Moscow, according to the SEC’s order. In August 2018, the Russian Foreign Ministry named him a special representative to improve relations between Russia and the US, according to a posting on Facebook.

The actor agreed to let his likeness be used to promote Bitcoiin2Gen’s token after consulting with counsel, according to a Thursday e-mail from his lawyer. Later on, Seagal became concerned that the project wasn’t legitimate and terminated the relationship.

“Mr. Seagal cooperated fully with the SEC’s investigation, and this matter is now behind him,” the e-mail said. “He looks forward to continuing his life’s work as an actor, musician, martial artist and diplomat.”

CELEBRITY ENDORSEMENTS CELEBRITY endorsements of ICOs—in which companies raise money by selling digital tokens instead of shares—became increasingly common as Bitcoin surged to a record high in 2017. All the hype prompted the SEC to publicly warn that pitches could be unlawful if the famous backers’ compensation wasn’t disclosed.

In 2018, the SEC accused boxer Floyd Mayweather and music producer DJ Khaled of failing to disclose that they had received payments for hyping ICOs. Mayweather, one of his sport’s most recognizable personalities, agreed to pay more than $600,000 to settle with the regulator, while DJ Khaled agreed to pay more than $150,000.

Vin Diesel again flexes his box-office muscles T HE movies have never seen a warrior like Bloodshot.

Based on the best-selling comic book, Ray Garrison is an elite soldier recently killed in action, brought back to life as the supersoldier Bloodshot by the RST Corporation. With an army of nanotechnology in his veins, he’s an unstoppable force—the strongest fighter the corporation has ever created—and able to heal instantly. But in upgrading his body, the company is also manipulating his mind and memories. As he begins to remember his past life, Ray isn’t sure what’s real and what’s not—but he’s determined to take back control. A hero not just trying to get the bad guys, but trying to figure out if he can trust what’s in his own mind? That’s heavy stuff—and that was precisely the draw for Vin Diesel.

After creating unforgettable big-screen characters in such movies as the Fast and Furious series, XXX, and The Chronicles of Riddick, among many others—not to mention his vocal turns in The Iron Giant and Guardians of the Galaxy—Diesel was drawn to the opportunity to create a character just as memorable with Bloodshot.

Not to mention that bringing to life the most popular character in Valiant’s lineup provided a once-in-alifetime opportunity.

With a wide readership of over 81 million comics sold, the Valiant books possess a diverse array of characters encompassing a wide variety of genres, tones and demographic groups. Famed for presenting characters who are ordinary people in extraordinary situations, these heroes are complex characters that reflect contemporary society, politics, and diversity of the modern world.

In that way, Diesel says that Bloodshot is unique because while his skills as a super-soldier are striking and fun to watch, it’s what’s going on inside that counts. “His mind has been controlled,” says the actor.

“He’s a badass soldier with unique abilities due to the nanites in his blood, but what’s fascinating about the character is that he’s motivated by something we’ve all been motivated by—the love he can’t forget. And

what’s tragic about the character is how that love is manipulated into betrayal.”

For Diesel, a powerful character exhibiting a real Achilles’ heel feels very grounded—and the actor says that the character’s heroic side is just as grounded. “If you ask guys in the military who their favorite comic book character is, it’s Bloodshot,” he notes. “Ray’s core values are the core values of anyone that’s ever served.” Because of that, Diesel says, the audience feels a deep empathy for the character that is completely unique. “I’ve never seen a character like this—someone who can be focused exclusively on the mission, but you in the audience are feeling for him, because you know that the company is exploiting him.

His motives are good, so you just want to see him get what he wants.”

And that feeling of being manipulated—the injustice of it—is something that maybe we can all relate to, Diesel says. “I feel that anyone can identify with feeling manipulated,” he says. “As we watch the news in our daily lives, there are so many moments that we’re feeling force fed or being manipulated. I like the idea of a hero with powers whose real battle is against that.”

For Bloodshot director Dave Wilson, the character—a soldier augmented and evolved through technology and science—was also a chance to explore the intersection of technology with our daily lives.

“Bloodshot’s abilities come from technology,” he notes. “In that way, it’s very grounded; we are all affected by—even controlled by—the tech around us. Or, I should say, technology gives us an illusion of control over our lives. There’s a great parallel there to the way Bloodshot is manipulated.”

Wilson points out that everything Bloodshot experiences might not be all that far off from reality— for better or worse. “Obviously we’re already seeing people with advanced prosthetics,” he says. “Right now, those prosthetics are still inferior to human limbs—but the day will come when they’re superior.

You’ll be able to buy strength. What’s more terrifying is when you can buy intelligence, because we’ll be

defined by what we can afford. There’s a term for it—‘transhumanism’—where we’re able to alter ourselves beyond the physical and neurological limits we’re born with. And those are some of the questions of the film.”

Ray has been turned into a super-soldier by the RST Corporation, led by Dr. Harting, played by Guy Pearce. “From his point of view, everything he does is in service of some future battle,” says Diesel. “He’s not necessarily nefarious—he really believes he’s doing something worthwhile. I imagine anybody that sends people to war has a conscience and wonders if they’re doing the right thing, and I don’t think Harting is any different. But he is willing to put Ray’s stability at risk to create this effective weapon.”

Harting’s assistant—and another of his experiments, an ex-Marine with a life-threatening injury—is KT, played by Eiza Gonzalez. The actress says that the role required a complex balance.

“KT is already starting to have misgivings about what they’re doing to Ray, but she’s at the mercy of Harting—he has control over the apparatus keeping her alive,” she says. Because of that—even as she starts to develop feelings for Ray—she can’t betray her true motivations. “It was really tricky—in every scene, I had to find an undertone within the scene that was the opposite of what was happening on the surface.

I’d be playing a moment where I’m relaying pieces of information to Ray, but really, I’m bothered and hurt.”

Another part of Harting’s team—and another enhanced soldier—is Jimmy Dalton, a.k.a. Chainsaw.

“He’s been given new legs and a new exoskeleton, a second set of arms that give him great power,” notes Outlander’s Sam Heughan, who plays the role. “He’s had a lot of work done—and he’s a piece of work.

He’s ex-Navy SEAL, the best of the best, and he’s got an attitude. It’s nice to play something completely different.”

Moviegoers can follow Bloodshot’s journey to figure out what’s real and what’s just in his mind when the film is released in Philippine cinemas on March 11. n

GMA’s original musical competition ‘Centerstage’ a hit among netizens GMA’s newest and all-original musical competition, Centerstage proved to be a world-class talent reality game show as it raked in glowing reviews all over social media during its premiere on February 16.

Viewers commented on the show’s fun overall concept set in a high-tech and visually appealing stage.

“Nice concept, ang fresh sa mata. Good job GMA for this original show here in the Philippines,” Facebook user Robin Matranas said.

On Twitter, #GMACenterstage trended nationwide where users also commended the program. @iammackulit tweeted out, “What a great show!

Super well-crafted and conceived format. Kudos to GMA for giving us again a very fresh concept and an original singing contest that Filipinos can truly call their own.”

Meanwhile, @JustRoseA aired her congratulations to the show’s first Bida Kid, “Congrats Hargie! You deserve to be the first winner on #GMACenterstage!”

On Instagram, netizens were impressed with the contestants, as well. Angeles Cañete commented, “Magagaling ang mga bata, parang mga professional singers.”

Likewise, on streaming platform YouTube, viewers also found Centerstage to be both entertaining and exciting. Johnroy Rodrigi said, “Nakaka-amaze ang

CENTERSTAGE is hosted by Alden Richards.

FROM left: Centerstage judges Aicelle Santos, Pops Fernandez and Mel Villena

talent ng mga bata. Congratulations sa bagong concept na ito!” Maria Napugan, on the other hand, applauded the first set of kids. “Singing with a live band is difficult but these children showed us how to do it.

Very well done!”

The pilot episode featured four powerhouse belter kids racing to the most coveted spot of all— the Centerstage. Twelve-year-old Hargie Ganza from Calamba, Laguna, emerged as the first Defending

Bida, after impressing the judges with her rendition of the Aegis hit, “Luha.”

“Masaya po ako ngayon dahil nakakanta po ako dito sa Centerstage. Nagpapasalamat po ako sa lahat ng sumuporta sa akin. Inaalay ko po ang laban na ito para sa pamilya ko,” Hargie shared.

Centerstage is hosted by Alden Richards together with Side Stage host Betong Sumaya. Aicelle Santos, Mel Villena and Pops Fernandez make up the panel of

Celebrity Judges.

Under the helm of director Louie Ignacio, witness Bida Kids race for their dreams on Centerstage, every Sunday after Daig Kayo Ng Lola Ko on GMA. Viewers from across the globe can also catch their favorite GMA shows via the network’s international channels GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV and GMA News TV International. More information is available at www.gmapinoytv.com.

Motoring BusinessMirror

Henry Ford Awards Best Motoring Section 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 2011 Hall of Fame

Editor: Tet Andolong

Friday, March 6, 2020 E1

ISUZU TURNS OVER BRAND-NEW

FIRE TRUCKS TO BFP

CYZ52 heavy-duty trucks fitted with body and equipment built by Nanomedics .

I

Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino

SUZU Philippines Corp. (IPC), the country’s leading manufacturer and distributor of brand-new trucks for 20 consecutive years, recently turned over 74 units of fire trucks to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

A FVR34 trucks fitted with body and equipment built by Hanseo.

Deemed as the initial batch of many, this is just the first batch of fire trucks for BFP modernization program. Finally, after decades, BFP will be able to operate brandnew trucks equipped with better and updated firefighting setup.

During the formal turnover ceremony held at the parade grounds of Camp Emilio Aguinaldo, none other than President Duterte was present along with BFP Chief Jose Embang Jr. “I hope that with these fire trucks, the BFP will be more capable and effective in ensuring the safety of our community and industry. I am confident that with the BFP’s leadership, we can further boost people’s confidence in their gov-

ernment, and create an environment where our people can live and work in peace,” said Duterte.

Also present during the event, were IPC President Hajime Koso and Isuzu Motors Ltd. Japan (IML) General Manager Koichi Ito. “IPC, and the Isuzu brand in general, has always been on a mission to contribute to the society by providing the most durable, reliable trucks— may it be for building bridges, airports and, this time, in protecting the community against fire. With the recent country situation—the big fire in the Metro, ashfall and cleaning operations in Calabarzon and, of course, the upcoming Fire Prevention Month, we feel that these trucks may be in the right

PRESIDENT Duterte delivering his speech during the formal ceremony held at Camp Emilio Aguinaldo. (Seated from left) Sen. Bong Go, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, BFP Chief Jose Embang Jr., and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. ISUZU PHILIPPINES

timing, as BFP now more than ever needs to continue to protect and serve the country against fire and other calamities,” said Koso.

Ito, who flew in from Japan to witness the momentous event, expressed that Isuzu has always been supportive of providing the best vehicles to the society. “In Japan, in particular, you will see a lot of private and government trucks produced by Isuzu, like these fire trucks and, just recently, high-performance ambulances for the recent virus prevention, which is why we are very happy that the Philippines is doing the same,” he said. “It is very humbling that the BFP has put in their confidence in our brand and, in return, we promise never to let them down. As our client,

we will provide to bureau not just quality product but full customer service,” Ito added.

As part of the BFP modernization program, the first 74 Isuzu fire trucks procured will be distributed to different regions nationwide.

Likewise, this program aims to hire more firefighters and to provide intensive training, including operating a modern fire truck and equipment to upkeep their firefighting capabilities.

Meanwhile, Senior Superintendent Jerry Candido, BFP director for Logistics, expressed pride in the bureau’s acquisition of brand-new units. “Basically, there are three main components we look for in a fire truck; its platform—engine and chassis, water tank and fire pump.

When we saw that the engine and chassis brand of this truck was Isuzu, our first comment was ‘Wow, that’s a quality truck!’ he said.

Of the first batch of delivery, 54 units are FVR34 trucks fitted with body and equipment built

by Hanseo. This 16-tonner, which can carry 1,000 gallons of water, is perfect for medium to heavy operations. It is powered by the 6HK1-TCL turbodiesel engine, which generates 237hp and 706 N-m of maximum torque. The other 20 units, meantime, are CYZ52 heavy-duty trucks fitted with body and equipment built by Nanomedics. It can carry a total of 2,500 gallons of water. The truck is powered by Euro V compliant 6WG1-TCN turbodiesel engine

delivering 414hp and a staggering 1,863 N-m of maximum torque.

As the No. 1 truck brand in the country, IPC, for its part, assured the BFP of full support wherever the trucks may be deployed in the country. With 43 dealerships nationwide, IPC is more than capable of offering excellent after-sales support and guaranteed parts availability. Additionally, IPC extends its service via its “Mobile Medic.” These trucks are built on a light-duty platform and are fully equipped to provide complete service for PMS, rescue or repowering services, especially to far-flung areas. For more information about Isuzu trucks log on to www.isuzuphil.com.

Moto

MOTORING ’minder

The right oil

for the right ride

U

SING the right products for one’s motorcycle can be tricky, since every owner has specific riding needs. Passionate motorcycle owners need to keep their bikes in top shape and find the right product for their specific use like more power, longer endurance or better mileage for their journeys.

According to Lorrie Ramirez, brand manager of Shell Advance, the line was developed to provide specific benefits to a customer’s motorcycle engine. “They use 99.5 percent pure natural gas-based oil and are fully synthetic, so they can provide many benefits to the customer,” Ramirez said. “This new range of motorcycle oils provide all the five benefits of complete protection, such as maximized horsepower, enhanced fuel economy, protection against high temperature, clean pistons and superior wear protection, but with one enhanced benefit,” she added.

The three new produc ts are Shell Advance Power, Shell Advance Long Ride and Shell Advance Fuel Save, with their names explicitly stating what their enhanced benefits are. Here is how each of the three can help riders have safe and effective motorcycle journeys:

Shell Advance Power

Motorc ycl e engines ’ per formance ideally need to be preserved even after they’ve been in use for some time. Unfortunately, degeneration can happen when motorcycle users don’t use highquality oil thus oxidation and deposit formation occur.

Because of this, the right kind of motorcycle oil must be used so the bike’s per formance doesn’t decline. One of the benefits of Shell Advance Power is thermal oxidation stability. It helps keep the engine piston clean and free-running, making sure that it has a long-lasting performance.

Another benefit of Shell Advance Power is there is no power loss. Based on two separate field trials covering up to 20,000 kilometers (km), motorcycles lubricated with Shell Advance Power did not experience any power drop compared to when they were new. When motorists use this oil, performance will be preserved without power loss, even with age.

Shell Advance Long Ride

The motorcycle engines being used in long rides can be subject to highly unfavorable conditions. For example, when the oil inside a motorcycle’s running

A day of go

Business

E2 Friday, March 6, 2020

engine is subject to high temperatures, it will evaporate, causing oil levels to drop. Oil viscosity will also increase and affect the oil’s ability to lubricate the engine. During long rides, loss of oil will become substantial and this could cause lubrication failure that leads to engine breakdown.

To specifically address this, Shell Advance Long Ride has oil volatility control, which makes sure that there are enough oil levels to maintain effective lubrication to the engine, with less top-up required. It is expertly formulated to give more endurance during long rides of up to 6,000 kilometers.

Shell Advance Fuel Save

There are also motorcycle riders whose priority is to save fuel, such as those who use their motorcycles every day to go to work and back.

Shell A dv ance Fuel S ave is per fec t f or t he s e r ider s. W i t h i t s Pur ePlus Te c hnolo gy- der ive d ba s e oil, mole c ule s are unif or mly size d whic h make it ea sier to slide over c reat ing le s s er f r ic t ion an d sm o o t h er c omp on en t s movement hence, le s s f uel consump tion. T his is not normally experienced in a miner al - ba s e d motorc yc le pro d uc t . Even if f uel consumpt ion is re duce d wit h Shell A dv ance Fuel S ave, engine dur abilit y is not af fe c te d and an addit ional 5 k m per liter w a s real ize d a s compare d to miner al - ba s e d motorc yc le oil af ter 12,0 0 0 - k m te s t under realis t ic dr iving condit ions.

Next time motorcycle enthusiasts get on their bikes, they know that they can now have better journeys with the new line of Shell Advance fully synthetic motorcycle oils addressing their need, be it for a more powerful ride, a long journey, or several fuel-saving trips.

Ford expands operations

of Customer Relationship Center

and goo

G

Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino

OOD drives need not be long distance or last for days. It could be just a day of a quick trip to the outskirts of the Metro.

Usually, it goes with a destination and a purpose. That’s precisely what Peugeot Philippines had in mind when they recently staged a rather quick media ride and drive dubbed “Bonne Route et Appetit.” The idea was to take a quick drive to Pampanga featuring its current SUV lineup, the compact 3008 and the seven-seater 5008. Joining the small motoring media group was Peugeot Philippines executives Maricar Parco and Dong Magsajo.

The band of Peugeot 3008 and 5008 SUVs at the Pasig dealership

Enjoy and feel good while driving with the i-Cockpit cabin design

The good drive

Champs Automobile Corp. (Peugeot Pampanga) Executive Director Carisa Laus

Every thing star ted on an early morning assembly at the Peugeot Pasig dealership.

There, waiting for us to board were several unit s of the SUVs. These t wo models are quite identical for the most par t except for the 5008’s longer wheelbase, extra third

row, rear-end design and the chrome trim bet ween the roofline and windows, among others. Teamed up with Manila Time editor Dino Direc to, we boarded the 3008 1.6-L, THP Ac tive version.

Just when we thought that the exterior look is nothing shor t of what an alluring

Suzuki offers exciting promos for the upcoming launch of the All-New XL7 and the All-New S-Presso

S

uzuki Philippines, the pioneer compac t c ar dis tributor is set to introduce the XL7, and the S-Presso. With it s uniquely Suzuki features, the new vehicles are set to exceed the expec t ations of the modern Filipino f amily and those who appreciate qualit y driving experience that c ater also to their want s, and not jus t their needs.

The XL7: Bold, robust and dashing

F

ORD Philippines is extending the operating hours of its Customer Relationship Center (CRC) as part of its efforts to enhance the customer experience.

Starting March 1, 2020, the Ford CRC will be open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to assist customers on after-sales and service transactions beyond its usual operating hours during weekdays.

“We recognize that our customers have varying lifestyles and work schedules so extending the operating hours of the Ford CRC to

Saturday is a great initiative to improve the Ford ownership experience,” shared PK Umashankar, Ford Philippines managing director. “We look forward to serving and assisting our customers on the CRC, which is now available to take calls six days a week.”

The Ford CRC can be reached at +63-28866-9408 or 1-800-10-736-3673 on Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Alternatively, customers can send an e-mail to e-mail us@ford.com for concerns about their Ford vehicles.

Be ready to have that commanding presence as you s tep out of the XL7 with it s bold f ace and front fender s with garnish that creates a bold and robus t s t yling for the handsome SUV. The model is powered by a 1.5-liter K15B engine and has enough room for seven passenger s with jus t the right leg room even in the third row leaving ever yone at ease during long drives, not to mention it s f lexible seating arr angement s. Luggage space is not a problem as you c an feel free to t ake both big and small luggage with a c apacit y of 153 liter s. Take this with you to new adventures. Reser ve from March 1-18, 2020 and get a discount of P30,0 0 0 from the P1,068,0 0 0 price t ag.

The athletic and powerful profile of the S-Presso

The S-Presso champions the per fec t fusion of a bold and prac tical design that takes af ter Suzuki’s classic SUV trademark look, making the S-Presso a sight to behold that makes heads turn with it s athletic profile and tall power ful stance. Inside, the 1-liter S-Presso is just as impressive as

it s exterior profile with it s high seat position, providing comfor t and convenience in ever y drive with ample luggage space. Get the S-Presso for P518,000 and with an early reser vation promo from March 1 to 18, 2020, customers

may avail themselves of the P15,000 discount with just a down payment of P5,000.

Visit any of the 77 Suzuki dealerships nationwide to avail of this promo. For more details, visit www.suzuki.com.ph.

oring

ood drive

sMirror

od food

Friday, March 6, 2020

E3

Honda Extends its Promos this March

H

ONDA Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) Honda’s automobile business unit in the Philippines announces the extension of its February promo entitled Drive to 2020. This promo covers the City, BR-V, Brio and CR-V with the following updated cash discounts and all-in low downpayment offers:

Newly opened Peugeot dealership in San Fernando, Pampanga, situated at the Levy P. Laus corporate center.

French signature st yling should be, we were fur ther astounded by what ’s inside. We were greeted by Peugeot ’s proprietar y i-Cockpit design presented on a per fectly laid out dashboard designed to uplif t the driving experience. Let alone the position and size of the grippy steering wheel where you look over it to see the instrument display. Ever y thing inside is finely detailed to exude spor tiness.

Believe us when we say that being inside to see and feel it is far bet ter than reading about it. Tr y it.

On the highway, ever y thing was blissful thanks to the vehicle’s superb NVH proofing.

A s for the ambient temperature, it matches well the audio quality emitted from the touchoperated audio head-up display—crisp and cozy. Now for the driving par t, it was pure fun.

Just imagine being propelled by a 1.6 -liter engine with t win-scroll turbo high pressure (THP) generating 167hp and 240 N-m of maximum torque. Ever y push was unrelenting.

The torque registr y above the low-end rpm range was unquestionably linear.

The good food

Just like that , we reached the L aus Group automotive hub in San Fernando, Pampanga. There we were greeted by none other than Champs Automobile Corp. E xecutive Direc tor C arisa L aus. Under her helm is the newly opened and fully func tional Peugeot dealer ship in the region, which also repre sent s the of ficial dealer par tners of Peugeot in Nor th Luzon.

T hen c ame t he nex t sc he dule of t he event—to experience good food. The group then headed to The Souq, Pampanga, to ex-

perience gastronomic Kapampangan dishes with a t wist. There, our food was ser ved in the highly rated rus tic res taurant in San Fernando where all the signature dishes of Pampanga were showcased.

Diesel power

On our way back to Manila, we managed to experience the 3008 2.0L HDi Ac tive variant.

While exterior-wise is pret t y much identical, the interior of the diesel variant was scaled down, trim-wise. According to Magsajo, the move was to create a levelled price point s for the t wo options considering the high cost of turbodiesel engines.

On t he road, t he t ur bodie s el v ar iant w a s a dif ferent bea s t . T hat 2.0 - liter wit h dire c t exc hanger t ur bo inje c t ion dishing out higher r at ings at 150 hp and 370 N -m of ma ximum tor que at a low - end r ange, ever y s tep on the accelerator was like unlea shing a ma s sive amount of tor que, s wif t ly and uninter r upte d. Pa s sing ever y vehic le w a s ea s y, and we got bac k at t he

Pasig dealer ship in no time.

The good deal

P eugeot i s c ur r en t l y o f f er in g t h e mul t i a w ar d w innin g 3 0 0 8 SU V — in b o t h di e s e l an d p e t r o l gui s e s — a t 0 p er c en t in t er e s t over t wo year s. T he seven-seater 50 08 SU V, m e anw hil e, f or i t s uni que b l en d o f c la s s l e a din g f e a t ur e s an d s t an d - o u t d e si gn a t an a t t r a c t i v e pr i c e t a g, t h er e i s c ur r en t l y a w ai t li s t f or t h e v e hi c l e. W ha t i s m or e, b o t h vehic l e s c om e w i t h an ex t en d e d w arr an t y p a c k a g e o f up t o f i v e y e ar s . T h er e ’s a l s o Pe u g e o t ’s uni qu e o f f e r in g o f f r e e R F I D p a c k a g e f or b o t h N or t h an d S o u t h L u zon’s e x pr e s s w ay s .

Finally, the 24 / 7 ser vice oper ation at the Pasig dealer ship, Peugeot c us tomer s c an come to the showroom any time and any day to have their c ar s ser viced—allowing for added convenience and f as ter t ur naround t ime s . Peuge ot Philippine s i s c ur r ent l y enjoying renewed vigor thank s to it s ap proach of put ting cus tomer satis fac tion and convenience at the fore f ront of it s e f for t s.

Model with Variant

Suggested Retail Price

Cash Discount

All-in downpayment for as low as

City 1.5 VX Navi CVT

P985,000

P22,000

P10,000

New BR-V 1.5 V CVT

P1,155,000

P30,000

P10,000

All-New Brio 1.2 S MT

P598,000

-

P28,000

CR-V Touring Diesel 9AT

P1,738,000

P107,000 *additional Php 10,000 worth of fuel

P10,000

The City 1.5 VX Navi CVT, New BR-V 1.5 V CVT, and All-New Brio 1.2 S MT are all available through a 10 percent special all-in cash-out with payment terms of 36 up to 60 months through BPI Family Savings Bank, RCBC, Security Bank Corp., China Bank Savings and Bank of Commerce only.

The CR-V Touring Diesel 9AT is available through 15 percent or 20 percent low net cash out with payment terms of 36 up to 60 months through BPI Family Savings Bank, RCBC, Security Bank Corp., East West Banking Corp., Philippine National Bank, Philippine Savings Bank, China Bank Savings, Bank of Commerce, Sterling Bank of Asia, Maybank Philippines Inc., BDO Unibank Inc., United Coconut Planters Bank and Robinsons Bank only.

Other financing promo option offers are the free one month amortization, available for 60 months payment term only and the low monthly amortization, available for 15 percent and 20 percent all-in downpayment for 36 to 60 months payment term.

All these of fers include three year LTO Regis tr ation and Chat tel Mor tgage. Free one year Comprehensive Insurance with Ac ts of Nature is also available through selec t bank par tners.

To learn more about the latest news and promos, visit your nearest Honda dealership, or Honda Cars Philippine Inc.’s official web site at www.hondaphil.com. Hurry, offers are available until March 31, 2020 only.

Hyundai hits over 2,000 unit sales in January

H

YUNDAI Asia Resources Inc. (Hari)—the official distributor of the country’s No. 1 selling Korean automotive brand­— recorded 2,045 units in sales for the first month of the year amid reduced consumer demand.

Lean demand was felt across the majority of automotive brands in the industry due to the Taal ashfall and COVID-19.

“The Taal ashfall and COVID-19 later in the month caused a temporary setback, dampening demand and supply chain disruptions, making 2020 a less resilient year. But given the Philippines’s stable economic fundamentals—a stable exchange rate, strong private consumption, lower inflation and interest rates, and robust public spending—the impact of these factors can be well managed,” Hari President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo said.

The Taal ash fall caused many automotive dealerships and facilities to close in the NCR

and Calabarzon for several days in January due to safety reasons. Consumers have, likewise, taken a conservative approach to COVID-19, cutting down on big-ticket items like vehicles while staying in their homes.

The company reported that delays in shipments are beginning to affect sales volumes as extra health precautions were initiated in both international and local ports. International shipping lines are also cutting down on available seaborne vessels in response to weak global demand.

“Hyundai has experienced several boombust cycles and disruptions in the industry but one thing has never changed—our unwavering commitment to provide quality vehicles, premium services and worry-free ownership. We will work doubly hard to catch up in the next few months while rolling out new products and promos relevant to customers,” Agudo added.

Year-on-year January, the Passenger Car (PC) segment contracted by 33 percent with 967 units from 1,443 units the previous year. Hyundai’s dynamic duo—the Hyundai Reina (PC-Segment A) and Hyundai Accent (PC-Segment B) continued to hold court, comprising most of PC sales. Both models are known for their segment-topping performance, innovative design and fuel efficiency.

Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) sales were reduced by 19.9 percent in January 2020 to 1,053 units compared to the same month last year. Despite the drop, Hyundai H-100 light truck sales increased by 15.3 percent equipped with Hyundai’s powerful Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi) diesel power plant. The H-100 is the leader in its segment. Resolute, Hari continues to expand its presence with the opening of PC dealerships in two Next Wave cities, Hyundai Angeles and Hyundai Baguio. Hari’s Commercial Vehicles (CV) sales dropped to 25 units for the

month but the company remains optimistic that sales will pick-up significantly as it has begun delivering units of Hyundai H-100 Modern Jeepney Class 1 and HD50S Modern Jeepney Class 2 to key transport cooperatives all over the country.

In mid-January, Hari delivered the initial batch of Hyundai HD50S Class 2 Modern Jeepneys to the Public Transport Alliance of Gensan. PTAG ordered over 300 units.

In the last day of January, the company debuted the Hyundai HD50S Class 3 Modern Jeepney making it the first player of the national PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) to complete its lineup of PUJ offerings.

“Our Hyundai Modern Jeepneys will provide the public with a comfortable, safer and efficient means of transport. We are proud to be part of this advocacy since we believe that every Filipino should experience the Hyundai brand,” Agudo ended.

Go on to adventures this summer with the GLC I F you hear the word ”adventure” and it makes you think of out of town road trips, hiking around the majestic mountains or just roaming around the beach and surfing the big waves, then it probably is time pack your bags and go on to adventures!

You can now enjoy your summer adventures in luxury with a new Mercedes-Benz GLC. The Auto Nation Group, the official distributor of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the Philippines introduces a new variant—the GLC 200 Limited which is available on a limited stocks, for a limited time only for as low as P3,990,000.

The GLC is regarded as one of the most popular and highly sought-after luxury SUV in the Philippine market. It is not just luxurious, but highly reliable and versatile, and possesses everything that you’re looking for in a Mercedes-Benz SUV—comfor t, luxur y, performance, cutting-edge technology and

design—and, thus, sets a new standard for the luxury compact SUV segment.

The GLC embodies true SUV strength—the perfect match for confident go-getters in life who are determined to achieve goals and adventurers who seek to experience different things. It delivers the right amount of power when you need it yet rides with refinement and comfort, ideal for your adventures this summer.

The exterior of the GLC reflects a muscular profile and modern off-road look with an urban design. The clear, smooth lines, and distinct contours give the GLC its sporty yet elegant aesthetics. It is equipped with LED High Performance headlights and 18-inch light-alloy wheels in 5-spoke design.

Inside the GLC, the sportiness, spaciousness, and luxury continue with high-grade materials, precise f inishing and f lowing contours. The new-generation multifunction

steering wheel with touch controls improves the driving and maneuvering experience. The GLC steps up in bring ing the infotainment system with MBUX, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GLC comes with generous leg room in the rear passenger seats, which can be split-folded to accommodate more cargo space if needed.

Just like any other Mercedes-Benz vehicle, the GLC is the epitome of safet y and technology with it s many features like Adaptive Brake Light s, At tention A ssist System, Reversing Camera and Ac tive Parking A ssist with Park tronic.

Avoid the lines and test drive a GLC today.

Visit Mercedes-Benz showroom today located at any of the following areas: Edsa Greenhills, Bonifacio Global Cit y, Alabang and Cebu.

You may also visit www.mercedes-benz.ph for more details.

Motoring BusinessMirror

E4 Friday, March 6, 2020

PHL a fast-growing economy globally–Suzuki

I

’M proud to say that I was particularly close to the last two presidents of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP)—Michinobu Sugata and Satoru Suzuki.

Sugata-san I christened “The Rocker” for his love for sounds, rock ‘n’ roll being his staple. Oh, how I adore his rendition of “Hotel California.”

Suzuki’s moniker was “Cool Cat” for his measured moves and gentlemanly mien all the way.

Together, they made the Sugatafounded Vios Cup Races, a yearly success since 2014. And together, they accounted for 10 straight astonishing Triple Crowns out of the 18 consecutive No. 1 standing of TMP in the auto industry. The Rocker accumulated six straight from 2010-2015 and Cool Cat a

four-year streak from 2016-2019.

What a feat, indeed.

Needless to say, I was touched by the poignant farewell speech recently by Suzuki-san. Here:

Great milestones

“TONIGHT, I feel that Toyota Motor Philippines is now prepared to set the pace in the new and exciting future of mobility.

“TMP has truly achieved great milestones in the last three decades, and I am greatly honored to have become a part of it—first in the late ’90s as vice president of Marketing Division, and, most es-

SUZUKI

pecially, in the past four years with a bigger and tougher role as president.

“I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all of you for making my stay as TMP president a memorable one.

Thank you very much!

“To Toyota Motor Corp., wellrepresented today by Asia Region CEO Nakata-san, thank you for the opportunity to lead a dynamic market in Asean.

“To TMP Founding Chairman George S.K. Ty and Chairman Alfred V. Ty, my heartfelt thank you for giving me the opportunity to lead TMP. It has been a privilege and honor to be entrusted a company that you have established, which, for years, has become—and continues—to be an undisputed market leader.

“To the Philippine government, please accept my deepest gratitude for being our partner in enabling the automotive manufacturing in-

dustry to grow and develop in this country. It is worth mentioning that with your approval back in 2016 of TMP’s participation in the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy or CARS program, TMP, as a vehicle manufacturer, together with our network of auto parts makers, was given the opportunity to take part in revitalizing local manufacturing capabilities and boosting regional competitiveness.

CARS program

“TO our suppliers, thank you for your strong commitment, especially during our busy times in preparing for the production and final roll-off of the all-new Vios under the CARS program. Now, TMP proudly produces the Philippinemade Vios with increased localization, made possible by a highly competent Filipino work force using new technologies and capabilities. With steadfast cooperation and dedication to excellence, you remained committed in consistently attaining the high quality standard of auto parts needed for the locally manufactured Vios and Innova, which are well-loved by our customers.

“To our dealers, we are grateful for your passion in creating an always delightful experience for Toyota customers. Toyota has gained our customers’ trust because of

how you deliver not only quality vehicles to customers, but also in providing them reliable after-sales service. I am confident that you will carry on the Toyota tradition of providing the best sales and service experience in your respective market areas.

“To my fellow TMP officers and Team Members—you are one great team and family...and I will always be proud of you! Team Toyota Philippines has a great amount of talent. Truly, people remains to be the most valuable assets of the organization. The hardworking dealers, suppliers and TMP Team Members—you are the ones who drove TMP to achieve milestone after milestone.

“Lastly, but more importantly, I would like to thank all Toyota customers who put their trust in the Toyota brand. You are the reason for Toyota’s passion to be always better.

Four solid years

“AS I look back at my time as TMP president, I cannot deny the fact that my heart has grown fond of this country, which I already considered my second home. Aside from this, I find Filipinos to be among the most hospitable, resilient and family-centric people I can think of. Such traits are truly admirable.

“It has been four solid years,

and the business environment changed significantly in that short span of time. The Philippines is, at an opportune time, a fast-growing economy, not just in Asia but globally. I am assured that TMP is capable and ready to seize new opportunities with its new president at the helm.

“At this moment, I would like to humbly ask all of you to please extend the same support to Mr. Atsuhiro Okamoto, my successor.

I am confident that he will lead TMP in achieving more challenging feats, especially in steering TMP into becoming a mobility company, which will provide solutions for better quality of life for everyone.

“As I move on to my next assignment, I will treasure all the lessons and memories we have made in the past years.

“Again, I deeply appreciate all of you for coming to this special occasion.

“Thank you very much! ‘Till we see each other again!”

Be cool with your new life, Suzuki-san.

PEE STOP We love telling our may-

ors to enforce the law banning tricycles from using major roads nationwide, only to see the DILG directive—first issued in 1991 yet—being deliberately unenforced and wantonly ignored, as well.

Who is to blame?

CITIMUBER PREPARES FOR MOTORCYCLE TAXI OPERATIONS W

ITH bills pending in both houses of Congress, a law legalizing and regulating motorcycle taxis is expected to pass within the next few months.

Anticipating this development, Filipinoowned Citimuber is preparing to join the ranks of players now offering motorcyclefor-hire services.

Set up in 2017, Citimuber has been quietly preparing its operations and software infrastructure to gear up for the anticipated legalization of motorcycle taxis. According to founder Rommel Villaroman, “We were hoping to join the second pilot run when it was opened up to additional players last De-

cember. We were not given the opportunity then, but we appreciated the feedback from the technical working group so we could further improve our operations. We believe this will help us emerge stronger by taking the necessary steps to make sure we will be ready to go full blast once the law is passed.”

As part of its preparations, Citimuber has set up a 1,600-square-meter training facility in Caloocan City, where safety riding seminars and rider skills assessments are held. Since they opened the center last December, they average about 60 riders daily. The center can accommodate up to 300 riders per day

once operations are in full swing.

Citimuber has set up strict requirements for its rider-partners. Before being accepted into the platform, riders have to undergo a professional third-party background check, including NBI and police clearances. Appli-

cants also go through a riding skills evaluation to ensure they have proper knowledge of traffic laws, road safety guidelines, as well as the proficiency to handle all types of road and traffic conditions.

The app itself is designed to have accu-

rate location tracking. To ensure the safety of both riders and bookers, there are designated areas where no bookings are accepted because of dangerous conditions, such as high-crime locations.

Both the rider and booker have a panic button that is automatically enabled once the ride starts. The panic button can be activated to send an emergency call or SMS, either to a police number or to immediate relatives.

Both rider and booker are asked to rate each other after every delivery/ride. A rating of three stars or below means you’ll never be matched to that person again. Bookers can record favorite riders on their dashboard or ban those they don’t want to use.

At the moment, it has a complement of about 10,000 riders already enrolled, with more signing up daily. Recruitment and screening are ongoing for Metro Manila, and the adjoining provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Quezon. Those interested may visit the web site www.citimuber.com or Facebook page CitimuberPhilippines.

THE NEW VESPA S

I

N 1946, the first Vespa was born as a simple, practical, but also unique and elegant vehicle for daily commute. Being a perfect follower of the Vespa heritage since 2007, Vespa S has allured many young generations with its perfect shape for easy urban mobility, energetic design and dynamic character.

In 2019, Vespa brings a lively breeze to the new Vespa S, both from an aesthetical and functional point of view. The updated model stands out for a completely new front tie that conveys an even more vital look, the introduction of the LED technology (and the LED daytime running lights for Indonesia only) on the rectangular headlight, and the dynamic single-seat saddle (Indonesia) and the double-seat saddle (all other countries) with special finishing. Particular attention was given also to the details of the new instrument panel with its revamped graphics which provides higher visibility in any lighting conditions. The panel of Vespa S is a combination of speedometer and LCD digital screen, that gives the rider accurate information about the fuel level and clock time.

Big news come with the design of the saddle, now having a flatter and narrower tip, yet keeping enough padding and size to ensure a comfortable ride for the ones with modest height. Moreover, the new materials further enhance the premium look of

the vehicle, keeping up with the sporty and energetic touch.

On the Vespa S, the movement of the swinging arm is structured on roller boxes that reduce operating friction to a minimum. With a new structure design, connecting the engine and the body and a damping absorber, Vespa S 2019 is further improved in clearing vibrations. Vespa S is equipped with a single cylinder 4-strokes 125cc air cooled I-get engine with electronic injection and 3-valves timing, improving efficiency and fuel consumption.

The 2019 color range is composed of five powerful shades: Grey Titanio (matt), Yellow Sole (glossy), White Innocenza (glossy), Black Vulcano (glossy) and Blue Vivace (matt).

Vespa S comes with the immobilizer anti-theft system as standard, indicated by the light in the instrument panel, when active.

Vespa S is also equipped with a functional glove box, extremely handy for daily use to store small objects like rain gear, sunglasses or gloves. The load capacity is also ensured by the helmet compartment, as well as the bag hook, indispensable for taking full advantage of the footboard.

Another feature highlighted in this model is the USB charging port which enhances convenience for riders when they want to charge their phones, tablets and small electronic devices.

A BusinessMirror Special Feature

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Friday, March 6, 2020 F1

BUSINESSMIRROR SAID ‘THANK YOU’ TO THE FILIPINOS’ TRUE FRIENDS, AND ANVIL SAID, ‘YOU’RE WELCOME!’ Mission: PHL, The BusinessMirror Envoys & Expats Awards, bags a Gold at the Emerald Anvils 2020

T

HE night of what has been called the “Emerald Anvils,” February 28, 2020, was history in the making for BusinessMirror, the country’s premier national business broadsheet that in past years had swept awards from the most prestigious bodies for its cutting-edge, prescient reportage.

That Friday night, at the 55th Anvils Award organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines, the BusinessMirror went beyond offering the “Broader Look at Today’s Business.” It undertook a trailblazing initiative to recognize the Philippines’s outstanding development partners, and for pursuing that challenging task of saying a big “thank you” to the foreign governments, peoples and

development agencies who have for decades helped the Philippines up the ante in human progress, BusinessMirror got, in turn a huge, resounding “You’re welcome!” from the Anvil jurors.

The jurors for what has been dubbed the “Emerald Anvils” recognized the country’s premier business daily for “pioneering the recognition of nations and international Continued on F4

BUSINESSMIRROR Publisher T. Anthony C. Cabangon and ALC Media Group Chairman D. Edgard A. Cabangon (7th and 8th from left) pose with the Gold Anvil trophy for “Mission: PHL, the BusinessMirror Envoys & Expats Award” at the 55th Anvil Awards night on Friday (Feb. 28). With them are (from left): Aldwin Tolosa, Bim Mauricio, Mike Policarpio, Britney Kang, Mila Molina-Lumactao, Psyche RoxasMendoza, Sharon Tan, Chuchay Fernandez, Czarina Blancaflor and Marvin Estigoy. BERNARD TESTA

A BusinessMirror Special Feature

F2 Friday, March 6, 2020

www.businessmirror.com.ph

THE 55TH ANVIL AWARDS:

CHAMPIONING EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC RELATIONS

I

By Leony R. Garcia

chosen were: on sustainable livelihood program (Baslay Coffee/EDC/ Page One); education/literacy (STI/ Page One; Learn Smart Apps/Smart Communications); international community relations (Mission Phils./Business Mirror); consumer healthcare (Philcare Healthcards/ CommSense); advocacy campaign (Outstanding Filipinos/Metrobank Foundation); financial literacy (Kaakbay Sunlife Phils.; How to be Rich Po/BPI); road safety campaign (Kaligtasan sa Daan/NLEX Corp.); internal communication (Happy Here Campaign/Telus Intl. Phils.); crisis-risk communication (Meralco Electric Co.); culture, heritage, tourism (Iloilo of Contemporary Art/Megaworld Corp.); on entrepreneurship (Digital Farmers/ Smart communications); and care for the environment (Binhi/EDC).

T’S an awards night like no other.

The who’s who in various sectors and companies as well as their public relations agencies gather together for a night of camaraderie and sharing the joy of winning. One of the most awaited events of the year, the Anvil Awards is presented annually by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP). The Anvil is the symbol of excellence in Public Relations for outstanding PR Programs and Tools. standards of public service, playing an active role in all matters affecting the practice of public relations, and strengthening the relationships of public relations professionals with stakeholders such as employees and clients, government at all levels, educators, media and the general public.

Aside from the Anvil, considered the Oscars of public relations practice in the Philippines, PRSP also holds three other major annual events: the National Public Relations Congress, Professional Development Seminars and Student Congress and Grand Prix Competition.

According to PRSP, the 55th ANVIL goes down in the orga-

NONOY LACZA

The PRSP is the country’s premier organization for public relations professionals. It is a nonstock, non-profit organization established on February 19, 1957 by leading PR practitioners in the country. In its roster are practitioners who represent business and industry, government, non-profit organizations, foundations, entrepreneurs and the service sector.

The Society’s mission is to advance the practice of public relations by uniting those engaged in the profession, encouraging continuing education of practitioners, generating public confidence in the profession by promoting high ethical practice and encouraging high

Smart, PLDT, PayMaya PH gather 32 trophies

GCash named as Company of the Year in Emerald Anvils, wins 21 gold and silver metals G Cash, the leading mobile wallet in the Philippines, was hailed as the Company of the Year in the 55th Anvil Awards, dubbed the Emerald Anvils, after its collective public relations initiatives and tools proved to be the best in the industry.

For its maiden year of joining the much-coveted Anvil Awards, considered as the “Oscars” of the local public relations industry, GCash won the accolade “for its excellence and innovation in its public relations, digital, and marketing communications programs.”

This is the first time that a homegrown financial technology (fintech) firm was honored as the Anvil’s Company of the Year, which is often awarded to big conglomerates, veteran companies with large teams of corporate affairs practitioners, and established household names across different industries.

“We are extremely humbled to be awarded by the premier award-giving body in the country, the Anvil Awards, and we are thankful that all our hard work is validated by the awards that we scored for our relatively-young organization. Receiving these awards is an affirmation that we are effectively complementing our initiatives to promote finance for all,” GCash Corporate Affairs Chief Ney Villasenor said.

GCash won a total 21 Anvil trophies, eight of which are gold and 13 are silver, all falling under different award categories namely: PR Program on a Sustained Basis for Consumer Welfare, PR Program on a Sustained Basis for Good Governance, PR Program on a Sustained Basis for Arts and Culture, PR Program on a Sustained Basis for Children’s Welfare, PR Program Directed at Specific Stakeholders - Employees, PR Program Directed at Specific Stakeholders - Students, PR Program Directed at Specific Stakeholders - Communities, PR Program Directed at Specific Stakeholders Consumers, Public Relations Tools - Exhibit and Special Event Launch, and Public Relations Tools - Digital Tool.

Gold Anvils were awarded to the fol-

lowing PR programs: Financial Inclusion Among Filipino Deaf Community; GCash Manila: Bringing Financial Inclusivity to Local Government Units; GCash Talks: Strengthening Stakeholder Relations through Thematic Thought Leadership Dialogues; and GCash for Good: Going Beyond Financial Inclusivity.

It also won Gold Anvils for PR Program and Tools such ad GCash Brand Love through Effective Media Relations Campaign; #WeAreGCash: Empowering the Workforce of the Country’s Leading Mobile Wallet; and We Are GCash Facebook Page: Utilizing Effective Social Media Strategies in Promoting Corporate Reputation.

Silver Anvils were awarded for GCash PR programs and tools like GCash For Good, GCash Talks, GCash Enterprise, GCash Forest, G!, the Official Newsletter of GCash, and GCash Media Initiatives.

“Working on these programs were already rewarding, and being awarded for implementing them is only a bonus. These citations challenge us to implement more effective communication strategies that not only promote our organization, but

also create an impact on communities, consumers, and our internal and external stakeholders,” Villasenor said.

GCash won these laurels after it proved to an esteemed panel of judges that its PR programs and tools were able to raise brand awareness and loyalty while effectively educating stakeholders and serving higher community needs. Being awarded accolades, the communication programs of GCash were considered to be “innovative, trailblazing, and transformative.”

“We are blessed to be supported and backed by award-winning organizations, Globe Telecom Inc., Ayala Corp., and Ant Financial, all of which have been great inspiration for us in working towards campaigns that promote financial inclusivity, good corporate citizenship, and environmental awareness,” Villasenor said.

With deep emphasis on the huge contribution of PR in brands, companies, and groups, the Anvil Awards is an annual selection and awarding ceremony that recognizes the best PR programs in the country.

It is presented by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP).

nization’s history as the most participated edition which garnered more than 500 entries of PR Programs and Tools.

BusinessMirror champions outstanding phl development partners, clinches first gold

THE trailblazing initiative of the BusinessMirror aimed at recognizing outstanding development partners of the Philippines and their best projects, won an Anvil Gold at the 55th Anvil Awards night held on February 28.

Aptly titled, “MISSION: PHL, the BusinessMirror’s Envoys & Expats Awards,” it was the lone entry from the country’s premiere business newspaper which won under international community relations.

It was also the first Anvil for the paper which marks its 15th anniversary in October 2020.

The award serves a fitting tribute to the newspaper’s late founder, former Philippine Ambassador to Laos Antonio L. Cabangon Chua, who thought of the Envoys & Expats page in the BusinessMirror, as a way of recognizing the work of the Philippines’ foreign partners and allies; as well as outstanding expatriate personalities in industry and other sectors, and in nongovernment and volunteer organizations.

Later, the secrion expanded to a full-blown search and awarding for such outstanding foreign partners, notably embassies, aid agencies and projects utilizing official development assistance (ODA). A biennial search, “Mission: PHL, the BusinessMirror Envoys & Expats Awards,” had its first awarding rites on April 4, 2019 at the SM Aura.

The major awards for the first “Mission: PHL” were: the Australian Embassy for the Outstanding Development Partner government; the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as Outstanding Development Aid Agency; and the European Union’s novel rehabilitation program for former drug users, as the Project of the Year.

Mission PHL., was among the stand-outs in this year’s Anvil Awards edition. Other programs

FOR their programs that help improve the lives of Filipinos worldwide, PLDT, its wireless unit Smart Communications, and mobile money and payments pioneer PayMaya Philippines were once more recognized at the recent Anvil Awards.

Among those given Gold Anvils were Gabay Guro Grand Gathering, PLDT Enterprise’s online publication Hot Joe Online, and #VoxNow Talks: An Employee Forum on Cyberbullying for PLDT; Digital Farmers Program, LearnSmart Apps Program: Enhancing Mother Tongue-Based Learning Through Collaboration and Innovation, Safe PH for Smart Millenniors, FindHer online series, TNT Giga Video 50 Summer Campaign for Smart, Don’t Pay Cash. PayMaya! Campaign, and #PayMayaPaMore: Giving Filipinos 10 million reasons to pay cashless using PayMaya.

Included in the 32 trophies is the Platinum Award — given to the most outstanding PR tool among the Gold Award winners in the same category — for PLDT’s Gabay Guro which supports and honors teachers through scholarship grants, training, livelihood, and housing among other programs.

RWM clinches 2 Silver Awards

Resorts World Manila, the integrated resort located in Newport City, opposite the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, in Pasay City, also made it to the 55th Anvil.

"We're always thrilled to be recognized for the things we do as part of our vision to thrill the world. Thank you to the 55th Anvil Awards for our two Silver Anvils," RWM posted on its official FB page.

A perennial winner, RWM received Silver Anvil Award in Specialized Public Relations Program Corporate/Organizational Identity Program for Thrillmakers Creed: Vision-Mission-Values Like No Other.

It also clinched another Silver Anvil Award in Public Relations Tool: Milestones for RWM: 10 Years of Thrills.

GCash bags 21 trophies

FOR GCash, winning the Anvil is beginner’s luck. The leading mobile wallet bagged 21 gold and silver medals --8 gold and 13 silver -- in its maiden year of joining the Anvil.

GCash won the Company of the Year award for its “excellence and innovation in its public relations, digital, and marketing communications programs.”

“We are extremely humbled to be awarded by the premier awardgiving body in the country, the Anvil Awards, and we are thankful that all our hard work is validated by the awards that we scored for our relatively-young organization,” GCash corporate affairs chief Ney Villasenor said.

“Receiving these awards is an affirmation that we are effectively complementing our initiatives to promote finance for all,” Villasenor added.

A BusinessMirror Special Feature

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Friday, March 6, 2020 F7

THE ODA TRAIL: WHY MISSION PHL NEEDED TO FIND A WAY TO THANK FRIENDS

FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr., flanked by BusinessMirror president Benjamin V. Ramos and publisher T. Anthony C. Cabangon, leads a toast to the Philippines’ decades-long robust relations with its development partners, the spirit that gave birth to Mission PHL. Continued from F6

Hanoi in 2007 which appeared in 2010.

Meanwhile, the 2015 report highlighted efforts to transition to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) from the MDGs, and included a portion of projects to be restructured in 2015.

A key reporting change in the 2015 report was the inclusion of the Alert Mechanism, introduced in 2010 but excluded from the ODA Portfolio Review.

The 2017 report also bore a summary of where the ODA loans and srants are located, so we see what regions benefit from development cooperation. The 2017 report also included the Flagship projects included in the Build, Build, Build program.

In the 2018 report, the Neda documented its development effectiveness initiatives, including its efforts to update and localize regional development plans as well as its participation in the 3rd Monitoring Round of the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

Efforts to emphasize monitoring and evaluation of ODA projects is one of the major changes in past few years. These activities are being undertaken to improve efforts to implement ODA. All these efforts and the long history of ODA partnerships between the Philippines and multilateral and bilateral institutions has improved the lives of many Filipinos. And it is the country’s hope that soon, it will be able to repay its debt

of gratitude to its partners by becoming a donor and help other nations achieve their development objectives.

“The story of development cooperation is many decades old.

And it is a continuing and evolving story — one made up as it goes along,” Locsin said. “Ending Part I and starting the first chapter of a second part which I think will be a thin volume; because the story of development should soon be coming to its end here as we cross over into a developed nation. And then another story will begin of the Philippines as a major donor nation. For there is no return on investment, no recompense for good deeds done, that is so satisfying as that which comes of giving with no thought of return.”

THE much-acclaimed Bohol-Panglao International Airport, a beneficiary of Japanese assistance. CAAP FILE PHOTO

Media Wise two-peats with Gold and Platinum

H

OMERUN! Media Wise Communications / Muse Books raced out into 2020 with a rare repeat of last year’s trophy haul with a gold and a platinum at the 55th Anvil Awards held at the historic Manila Hotel on February 28, 2020. The gold and platinum Anvils were for the coffee-table book The Manila Jockey Club: The Front Runner that Media Wise produced for the Manila Jockey Club, Inc. for its 150th anniversary.

The Platinum Anvil, the rarest and most coveted of

the Anvils, is given only to the cream of the year’s crop of Gold Anvil awardees. Normally, just one or two are given by the awards body per year out of hundreds of entries. Media Wise’s platinum last year was for the award-winning coffee-tablebook On the March: The Jesuits in the Philippines Since the Restoration.

The Front Runner chronicles the evolution of horse racing in the Philippines, as embodied in the 150-year history of the Manila Jockey Club. It celebrates a century and a half of local horse-racing history, nostalgia,

and excitement.

Media Wise’s The Front Runner bagged the Platinum Anvil in the PR Tools Publications category. Although a boutique publication house, Media Wise has won many awards in PR and publications from various prestigious awardgiving bodies locally and abroad.

Manila Jockey Club president Alfonso Reyno III and Media Wise president Ramoncito Cruz, together with their respective teams, received the gold and platinum trophies at this year’s Anvil awarding ceremonies.

DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry Assistant Secretary Emmanuel W. Ang hands the Category award for Trade and Investment to Japanese Ambassador Koji Haneda. ROY DOMINGO

A BusinessMirror Special Feature

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Friday, March 6, 2020 F3

Building a Better World through Public Relations

T

By Jones T. Campos, APR

HE 55th Anvil Awards of 2019 goes down in the Public Relations Society of Philippines’ (PRSP) history as the most participated Anvil Awards with more than 500 entries of PR Programs and Tools.

My reckoning date is 2004, during the Ruby Year of the PR Society, where there were only 135 entries.

That year was also a turning point in the PR Society.

We were confronted with a disruptive “rogue faction” - who were not supported by the entire well-meaning corporate and individual members of the organization – and we prevailed. Fifteen years later, today, the Anvil Awards prides itself as the ultimate awarding body in Philippine PR and provides the bench mark of PR excellence in the industry and profession. It is backed up by veteran PR professionals who are staunch and loyal stewards of competent and ethical PR practice.

In this Age of Information, real, truthful and persuasive communication have become a “luxury.” If one is not careful and on guard, chances are we become victims of disinformation or fake news. The PR Society therefore is vigilant especially in determining what is authentic and beneficial for societal consumption.

The PR practitioner’s main function remains basically the same which is “doing good and telling it well.” It is heavy on human relations, whether we talk about traditional or non-traditional;new media or digital means. The improvement lies in the pervasiveness of the Internet, where doing things have become more “sophisticated, fast and reliable.” Because of this, those of us in PR have become more creative and grounded delivering relevant social responsibility programs designed to alleviate immediate needs and concerns relevant to nation-building or in the upliftment of social conditions.

Today, more companies have shifted their PR involvement, not by dole outs, but towards engaging target publics. Among the stand-outs in this year’s edition of the Anvils include: on sustainable livelihood program (Baslay Coffee/EDC/ Page One); education/ literacy (STI/Page One; Learn Smart Apps/ Smart Communications); international community relations (Mission Phils./Business Mirror); consumer healthcare (Philcare Healthcards/ CommSense); advocacy campaign (Outstanding Filipinos/Metrobank Foundation); financial literacy (Kaakbay Sunlife Phils.; How to be Rich Po/BPI); road safety

campaign (Kaligtasan sa Daan/NLEX Corp.); internal communication (Happy Here Campaign/ Telus Intl. Phils.); crisisrisk communication (Meralco Electric Co.); culture, heritage, tourism (Iloilo of Contemporary Art/Megaworld Corp.); on entrepreneurship (Digital Farmers/Smart communications); and care for the environment (Binhi/EDC).

The perennial “scorecard reporting” through annual reports and sustainability initiatives continue (Ayala Land; PLDT).

W hile the big winners in PR tools are the coffee table books of The Manila Jockey Club (The Front Runner/Media Wise Communications) and Victorias Milling’s 100th Year. The PLDTSmart Gabay Guro 12th Anniversary Grand Gathering is also a big winner on the digital category.

What is very observable nowadays and It has become SOP is monitoring and measurement of PR effectiveness of PR programs and tools. Thus, more often than not, these are no longer totally reflected as “cost” in the organization. Instead, PR programs have become enablers or enhancers of the company reputation that bring about goodwill and corporate inspiration, apart from being a marketing tool; as such, are tangible component of a company’s triple bottom line.

In my more than three decades of being actively involved in the PRSP, especially with the Anvil or the PR Congress, I have witnessed and proven that PR is the heart and soul of a caring organization. In fact, doing sustainable PR programs that involve its employees and managers strengthens and builds the team to be more productive as everybody is encouraged to be volunteers. There is that feeling that when one is out there in the field serving and doing Brigada Eskwela or tree planting, or on a medical mission, or donating blood, or doing relief operation in calamity-stricken areas – one can only empathize and be fulfilled in doing such missions. Actually, building a better world.

In the words of Hollywood icon Kirk Douglas, (ICYMI) who passed away recently, he had wished during his last birthday: “A world where weapons, big and small, are symbols of weakness, not strength. A world where religion informs values, not governments.

A world where the air is breathable, the water drinkable and the food is healthy and plentiful. A world where poor people are the smallest percentage of the population. A world

where education and health care are available to everyone. A world where prejudice based on race, religion and nationality is non-existent.

A world where smoking tobacco is

considered a ridiculous practice by a bygone era. A world where all diseases are curable and physical pain is no longer a part of life. A world where we control technology,

not the other way around. And a world where greed is never considered good (at all)”

Thus, a better world through public relations.

A BusinessMirror Special Feature

F6 Friday, March 6, 2020

THE ODA TRAIL: WHY MISSION PHL NEEDED TO FIND A WAY TO THANK FRIENDS

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Teachers, farmers, seniors among beneficiaries of PLDT Group’s 32 Anvil Awards winners

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OR programs that help uplift the lives of Filipinos all over the world, PLDT, its wireless unit Smart Communications, and mobile money and payments pioneer PayMaya Philippines have been recognized anew at the recently concluded Anvil Awards.

Presented by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), the Anvil Awards recognizes excellent PR programs and tools.

The three companies took home a total of 32 trophies at the 55th Anvil Awards, including the Platinum Award for PLDT’s Gabay Guro. The Platinum Anvil Award is given to the most outstanding PR tool among all the Gold Award winners of the same category.

Gabay Guro is PLDT’s advocacy program which supports and honors teachers through scholarship grants, training, livelihood, housing, and other programs.

PLDT also received Gold Anvils for the following PR tools: Gabay Guro Grand Gathering, PLDT Enterprise’s online publication Hot Joe Online, and #VoxNow Talks: An Employee Forum on Cyberbullying.

Smart, for its part, won gold for programs that link communities to the benefits of using online tools: Digital Farmers Program, LearnSmart Apps Program: Enhancing Mother Tongue-Based Learning Through Collaboration and Innovation, Safe PH for Smart Millenniors, FindHer online series, and TNT Giga Video 50 Summer Campaign.

PayMaya, meanwhile, took home 3 Gold Anvils for Don’t Pay

THE Mission PHL trophies, designed by acclaimed sculptor Julie Lluch.

A

By Cai U. Ordinario

LL’S well that ends well, as the old cliché goes. Where Official Development Assistance (ODA) is concerned, the Philippines chose to rely on time-tested friendships and strong relationships.

In late February, Executive Secretary Salvador C. Medialdea issued a memorandum lifting the suspension of negotiations for and signing of all loan and grant agreements with governments of countries that co-sponsored and/or voted in favor of the United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution in July last year.

This can only cement the bond between the Philippines and its development partners, especially as the Duterte administration is in the thick of undertaking its massive infrastructure push to address a primary development constraint that prevents the economy from reaching greater heights.

Many of the administration’s Build, Build, Build (BBB) projects and the 100 Flagship projects are being funded by ODA from various countries. Based on the latest list of the flagship projects, around 49 of the projects worth P2.32 trillion will be funded through ODA. Based on the 2018 Portfolio Review of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda), the country’s total ODA portfolio amounted to $16.86 billion. This is composed of 76 loans worth $14.46 billion or 86 percent of the total and 338 grants worth $2.4 billion or 14 percent of the total.

Of this amount, the bulk of ODA commitments or 51 percent or $8.62 billion was allocated for

infrastructure development. This includes 41 loans and 19 grants.

This was followed by 7 loans and 105 grants under the Social Reform and Community Development (SRCD). This amounted to $3.43 billion which represented 20.36 percent of the total ODA as of December 2018.

“Year-on-year (2017-2018) comparison shows that aside from having the highest share for both years, the INFRA sector also significantly increased by $1.99 billion in 2018,” the report stated.

“This is mainly due to the entry of seven (7) new infrastructure loans amounting to $2.15 billion, three (3) of which are part of the Build, Build, Build Program with net commitment amounting to a total of $1.31 billion,” it added.

Long history

THE country’s reliance on ODA has not been a secret. The Philippines has been a recipient of concessional financing from its development partners, to not only move the economy forward but to also free millions of Filipinos from the shackles of poverty.

From the Neda report of the years between 1970 and 1979, we see that the country's total ODA -- then a whopping $4.57 billion -- had posted an impressive average annual growth of 34.8 percent.

The Neda attributed this rapid rate

of increase in ODA to higher absorptive capacity “made possible by increased project preparation, implementation capacity and improved government revenue performance.”

Of the total amount, more than 90 percent or $4.127 billion were concessional loans; the remaining $446.5 million were grants.

As of June 1989, or a decade later, the country’s total ODA amounted to $9.29 billion, the jump in aggregate data apparently a result of the Philippines being the darling of the democratic world after the 1986 Edsa People Popwer revolt. The amount covered 498 loans and grants used to finance ongoing or new programs and projects.

Total ODA loans reached $7.404 billion while grants amounted to $1.886 billion.

By the June 1991 review, one sees there were 156 active ODA loans, albeit a continuing struggle with availment rate. As of 30 June 1991, the country posted overall availment rate of 77 percent, or a decline of 6 percentage points from the 30 June 1990 report.

The total loan amount as of 30 June 1991 was $8.113 billion covering the 156 active ODA projects.

This is composed of 144 project loans worth $6.592 billion and 12 program loans worth $1.52 billion.

As of the First Quarter 1999, total ODA commitments reached $11.171 billion, covering 180 loans, with the OECF of Japan as the largest source of ODA loans -- or $5.127 billion or 46 percent of the total; followed by ADB with loans worth $3.048 billion or 27 percent of the total; then World Bank with $2.681 billion or 24 percent of the total.

Infrastructure received the highest loan amounts, with $7.549 billion covering 114 projects. The largest subsector was transportation with 36 projects worth $2.85 billion followed by energy, power, and electrification, $2.757 billion for 34 projects and water resources,

$1.671 billion for 34 projects.

It is worth noting that many of the development partners of the country in the 1970s have remained the Philippines’ allies in its fight against underdevelopment and poverty.

“The little I know about development aid is that it is a great deal of money, though nothing that a country cannot provide for itself; and there is quite a lot of talk concerning matters that no country could know on its own,” Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. said in his Keynote Speech at the Awarding Ceremonies of Mission: PHL, The BusinessMirror Envoys & Expats Awards last year.

“Behind it is a philosophy of development that is behind the most recent success story today: China’s. Don’t reinvent the wheel or struggle at great cost and much loss of precious time to learn to the way to do things better that is already known elsewhere and has only to be accessed, adapted and adopted,” he added.

Changes

THROUGH the years, the Philippines has improved the way that it has undertaken its partnerships for development, as reflected in Neda’s ODA Portfolio Reviews not only to document the changes but also to institutionalize them.

Some of the reforms in the past decade included dedicating a portion of the ODA Portfolio Review to the country’s efforts to adhere to the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness, a global compact that seeks to improve the extension and use of ODA in 2009 and discussing International Commitments on Aid and Development Effectiveness such as the MDGs, the Financing for Development (FfD), the High Level Forum (HLF) on Aid Effectiveness (which created the Paris Declaration), and the Managing for Development Results conducted in Morocco in 2004 and Continued on F7

Cash. PayMaya! Campaign, #PayMayaPaMore: Giving Filipinos 10 million reasons to pay cashless using PayMaya, and Maya Launch: A fresh take on digital payments.

PRSP also conferred Silver Anvils for the following programs and tools: PLDT Global’s 12/12 Free Bee Day and 2019 Free Bee “’Nay, ’Yan Ay Pangako,” PLDT At Your Service, The Round Up, and PLDT-Smart Omega, and PLDT Enterprise’s Philippine Digital Convention 2019 (Digital Grounds Tour); Smart’s Free Roam Chat, Giga with Video Every Day, LearnSmart Apps: Improving Literacy and Preserving Local Culture through Mother Tongue-based Apps, ONEBoarding: A Digital Onboarding Experience for New Hires, PLDT-Smart Netflix Stranger Things Partnership, Sun Prepaid Para Nimo Cebu, The Good Fiber: PLDT 2018 Sustainability Report, TNT Free YouTube For All, TNT SurfSaya Campaign, and TNT Tropang Ready; and PayMaya’s Make It Count: Finding Purpose In the Everyday, VHub: Creating a Connected Workplace through an Always-On Communications Hub, PayMaya Tara!: Elevating the travel experience of Filipinos through convenient cashless transactions, and PayMaya’s Battle Cry: Make It Count.

Through these Anvil Awardwinning programs, PLDT, Smart, and PayMaya work to enhance education, community preparedness, financial inclusion, improved access to online services, and livelihood opportunities with the help of technology.

SM wins big at the 55th Anvil Awards

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HE SM Group scored 23 Anvils during the Public Relations Society of the Philippines’ (PRSP) 55th Anvil Awards Gabi ng Parangal last February 28, held at the Manila Hotel.

SM won seven Gold Anvil Awards for: SM Cares and Global Peace Foundation’s Global Youth Summit (Tool), SM Cares’ Emergency Preparedness Forum for the Disabled and Elderly (Program), SM Supermalls’ Employee Experience Journey (Program), SM Prime’s “Pride in My Purpose” Video (Tool), SM Investments Corporation’s 2018 Sustainability Report (Tool) and Global Reporting Initiative Sustainability Summit 2018 (Program), and the SM Development Corporation (SMDC) “Protect our Community” (Program).

Among the 16 Silver Anvil Award winners from SM include: SM Supermalls’ #VoteForMom Program and Tool), #SMforSMEs (Program), Unplugged and Play (Tool), SM City Angono’s Art Walk (Program), SM City Marikina’s Junior Firefighters Camp (Program), SM City Taytay’s Barbie in the East Wedding Edition (Tool), SM Cares’ Disaster Preparedness Forum (Tool); SMDC’s “Love ko si

Lolo, Love ko si Lola” (Program) and “Protect our Community” (Tool); SMIC’s 2018 Annual Report (Tool), “So Many Stories” (Tool), and Sustainability Microsite (Tool); SM Prime’s 2018 Sustainability Report (Tool); and SM Foundation’s Spreading #SocialGood (Program) and 2018 Annual Report (Tool).

“We owe our success to our customers and stakeholders who continue to recognize the value of our public relations campaigns and initiatives. These wins continue to fuel our passion for innovation and commitment to taking customer experiences to a notch higher,” the company said.

Conferred annually by the PRSP, the Anvil is a symbol of excellence in public relations in the country. Considered as the Oscars of public relations and the most coveted prize in the industry, the Anvil Awards recognize outstanding public relations tools, programs, and practitioners discerned by select PR professionals and assessed by a distinguished multi-sectoral jury.

For more info about SM Supermalls, visit www.smsupermalls. com, or follow its social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@SMSupermalls).

F4

Friday, March 6, 2020 | www.businessmirror.com.ph

55th Anvi

A BusinessMirr

BUSINESSMIRROR SAID ‘THANK YOU’ TO THE FILIPINO’S TRUE FRIENDS, AND ANVIL SAID, ‘YOU’RE WELCOME!’ Mission: PHL, The BusinessMirror Envoys & Expats Awards, bags a Gold at the Emerald Anvils 2020 Continued from F1

organizations that have truly helped Filipinos here and abroad.”

It was the first time for BusinessMirror, which marks its 15th anniversary in 2020, to join the Anvil, although its journalistic work has earned numerous awards for the paper and its staff.

Receiving the Gold Anvil trophy for the BusinessMirror in marathon rites at the jampacked Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel were: ALC Media Group Chairman D. Edgard A. Cabangon; BusinessMirror Publisher T. Anthony C. Cabangon; BM Editor in Chief Lourdes Molina-Fernandez; and Mission: PHL Project Director Psyche Roxas-Mendoza, also managing editor of the Philippine Graphic magazine.

They were joined by BusinessMirror VP for Sales Marvin Estigoy, Advertising Manager Aldwin M. Tolosa and BM’s Envoys & Expats page editor Mike Policarpio.

THE AWARDEES FOR MISSION: PHL 2019 MAJOR AWARDS

MAJOR awards were given out to the Embassy of the Year (Australian Embassy, represented by Ambassador Steven O. Robinson, center); Project of the Year (EU Delegation to the Philippines, represented by Ambassador Franz Jessen), and Development Aid Partner of the Year (Japan International Cooperation Agency, represented by its chief Representative Yoshio Wada).

JICA

Development Aid Partner of the Year

EUROPEAN UNION

Project of the Year (establishment of Model Recovery Clinics (Voluntary Outpatient-Based Medical Treatment Facilities for Drug Users)

JAPAN

Agriculture and Fisheries Award Transportation Infrastructure Support Award Trade and Investment Award Infrastructure Support Award

USA

Biodiversity Award

AUSTRALIA

Education of the Nation Award

UNITED KINGDOM

Science, Technology, and Innovation Award

REPUBLIC OF KOREA

Visit the Philippines Award

and developed Philippines.

PHL government partners

SIX of the seven members of the Mission PHL Panel pose for posterity after receiving their plaques of appreciation for their signal service to the program (from left): Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Private Sector Representative Henry Schumacher, Director Hazel Baliatan for the National Economic and Development Authority, Civil Society Representative Filomeno Sta. Ana III of Action for Economic Reform, Youth Representative Cristina Aquino and BusinessMirror representative John Mangun. Not in photo is AIM Dean Jikyeong Kang.

Biennial awards

MISSION: PHL, the BusinessMirror Envoys & Expats Awards, shall be given every two years, beginning in April, 2019. The next Mission: PHL shall be in April 2021.

Mission: PHL gives due recognition to the development efforts of countries as represented by their embassies, as well as bilateral and multilateral development aid partners.

It is the first time that recognition awards were given to countries—represented by their embassies—and the bilateral and multilateral agencies.

Mission: PHL is NOT a competition. The awards are in recognition of the strong and enduring partnerships fostered between the Philippines and a nation or embassy in particular areas of growth.

It also recognizes specific projects that boost the Filipino people’s aspirations for a truly progressive

Embassy of the Year

CATEGORY AWARDS

Where it all began

THE BusinessMirror has an Envoys & Expats section—the brainchild of the late Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua, former ambassador to Laos and former Chairman Emeritus of BusinessMirror.

Ambassador Cabangon Chua saw in Envoys & Expats a platform for the ideas, aspirations, plans, and programs of the diplomatic community for a better Philippines. In his job as diplomat and as a longtime business leader and philantropist before that, he knew there were very concrete programs and project in the works that helped enliven the socioeconomic, humanitarian, and cultural partnerships between the Philippines and the nations of the world.

And the BusinessMirror, in realizing the late Ambassador’s vision, supported these laudable efforts of the diplomatic community with reportage—its way of making readers, the average Filipino, aware of these efforts and their significance in helping achieve national development.

In late-2017, the BusinessMirror decided to level up on its commitment of support, this time to focus on the important partnerships forged between the Philippine government, which for decades had received big flows of Official Development Assistance (ODA) in concessional loans and grants, and the diplomatic community.

Conceived by Mission: PHL Special Projects Director and Philippines Graphic managing editor Psyche Roxas-Mendoza, the Mission: PHL program was officially launched six months later, on March 22, 2018 at the City Garden Grand Hotel in Makati.

AUSTRALIA

FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. is flanked by DFA’s Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya, a panel member of Mission PHL, and Project Director Psyche Roxas Mendoza.

IN going about this endeavor, the BusinessMirror forged government and private sector partnerships that led to the creation of eight Technical Working Groups and a seven-man Mission: PHL Panel.

The Mission: PHL Panel was composed of: Director Hazel Baliatan for the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Academe Representative (Dean Jikyeong Kang/Asian Institute of Management); Private Sector Representative (Henry Schumacher); Civil Society Representative (Filomeno Sta. Ana III, Action for Economic Reforn); Cristina Aquino (Youth Representative); and John Mangun (BusinessMirror representative). The panel was chaired

by AIM Dean Kang.

The Neda and the DFA joined the eight other departments in the long, arduous task of helping Mission PHL select those to be listed for special appreciation.

The specific government agencies involved in the 2019 debut of Mission PHL were: Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Tourism (DoT), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The year-long work of the eight TWGs and the 7-man Mission: PHL Panel culminated in the recognition awards for Embassy Awardee and Development Aid Partner Awardee across eight categories.

Such category awardees were selected with the indispensable help of the eight Philippine government agencies that joined Neda and the DFA early on.

The 8 Category Awards and the agencies that handed them out were: Agriculture and Fisheries Award (DA); Biodiversity Award (DENR); Science, Technology, and Innovation Award (DOST); Infrastructure Support Award (DPWH); Education of the Nation Award (DepEd); Visit the Philippines Award (DoT); Trade and Invest-

ment Award (DTI); and Transportation Infrastructure Support Award (DOTr).

Memorable awards night

MAJOR awards for Project of the Year, Development Aid Partner of the Year, and the Embassy of the Year were handed out at the first recognition rites held at the SM Aura in Taguig City on April 4, 2019, a memorable night keynoted by Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. and attended by dozens of ambassadors, embassy staff, development aid agencies, and four Cabinet secretaries. Besides Secretary Locsin, there were: DOST Secretary Fortunato dela Pena, Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones and Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark A. Villar.

Ambassadors Han Dong-Man (Korea), Koji Haneda (Japan), Steve Robinson (Australia), Daniel Pruce (United Kingdom), EU Ambassador Franz Jessen, Papal Nuncio and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Archbishop Gabriele Giordano Caccia, Jana Sediva (Czech Republic), Jan Top Christensen (Royal Danish Embassy), Win Naing (Myanmar), Hamad Saaed Hamad Obaid Alzaabi (UAE), and Aman Rashid (Pakistan) led other members of the diplomatic community in gracing the April 4, 2019 SM Aura rites.

They were joined by development aid partners Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), KEXIM, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), World Bank, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Delegation of the European Union, to name a few.

In attendance at the first Mission: PHL awards were government sector representatives from the DOST, DepEd, DPWH, DOT, DOTr, DA, DENR, and DTI; DPWH Build Build Build chairman Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo, DOST Assistant Secretary Leah Buendia, DOSTPCIEERD deputy executive director Engr. Raul Sabularse, DA Assistant Secretary Lerey Panes, DOTr Undersecretary Ruben Reinoso, DOT Assistant Secretary Roberto Alabado, DTI Foreign Trade Services Executive Director Emmanuel Ang, and DENR Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez.

vil Awards

ror Special Feature

www.businessmirror.com.ph | Friday, March 6, 2020

DEPED Secretary Leonor Briones hands out one of the Category awards, the “Education of the Nation Award,” to Australian Ambassador Steven O. Robinson.

In his keynote speech on April 4, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. hailed “Mission: PHL” as a fitting initiative to express concrete appreciation to the Philippines’s ODA partners, who for decades have helped the country ramp up vital infrastructure and boost public services that advance human progress.

It takes a village

Sister media agencies supported BusinessMirror in the Mission: PHL program: Philippines Graphic, CNN Philippines, Pilipino Mirror,

DWIZ, and Home Radio. Billboards, through Globaltronics, served to better project the program, which the government’s PTV4 also covered.

In its first time to join the Anvils in its 14-year existence, the BusinessMirror relied on its entire organization who enthusiastically met the challenge.

This is what it internally took to mount Mission: PHL.—BusinessMirror publisher T. Anthony C. Cabangon, ALC Media Group chairman D. Edgard A. Cabangon, BM president Benjamin Ramos, chairman of the

board and ombudsman Judge Pedro T. Santiago, editor-in-chief Lourdes Molina-Fernandez, HRD VP Loida Virtudazo, Finance VP Adel Gasmin, VP for Advertising Sales Marvin Nisperos Estigoy, Advertising Sales Manager Aldwin Maralit Tolosa, Circulation Manager Rolando Manangan, Group Creative Director Ed Davad, Chief of Photographers Nonie Reyes, Online Editor Ruben Cruz, Jr., Envoys & Expats Editor Mike Policarpio, Social Media producer Sari Osorio, and the Journalists who sat on the

PenserQ’s “Protect Our Community” forum for SMDC bags Gold and Silver honors at the 55th Anvil

DOUBLE WINS. PenserQ bags Gold and Silver honoers at the recent 55th Anvil Awards Gabi ng Parangal for its “Protect Our Community” forum for SMDC. In photo are (from left) PenserQ President Ana Bautista, Corazon Pagsibigan (Corporate Communications Manager), Allan Quicho (Brands Senior Manager), and Rosita Jimenez (Marketing Senior Manager) and PenserQ’s Candace Umbay.

I

NTEGR ATED marketing communications agency and events management firm PenserQ Multimedia Company has added another feather to its cap after winning awards at the 55th Anvil Awards' Gabi ng Parangal on February 28 at the Manila Hotel.

"Protect Our Community", the forum it organized for SMDC and its communities, was awarded with a Gold Anvil Award for Specialized Public Relations Program (Crisis/ Risk Communication) and a Silver Anvil Award for Public Relations Tool - Exhibit and Special Events Forum.

"We've organized many events in the past. But this particular one is close to our hearts because it is about

people helping people, and it promotes the power of the community in ensuring the safety and security of its residents," said Ana Liza Bautista, PenserQ Multimedia Company president.

"We've also learned a lot from this forum and we had a great time working with our partners at SMDC, who are always on their toes when it comes to keeping their communities safe," she furthered.

The "Protect Our Community" forum was held to educate and enlighten SMDC communities on how to remain vigilant in preventing potentially dangerous situations.

With the help of the Philippine National Police,

Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Philippine National Red Cross, SMDC, with the assistance of PenserQ Multimedia Company, launched this community forum to help residents understand their role in keeping their communities safe and secure.

Presented by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), the Anvil is the symbol of excellence in public relations awarded by a distinguished jury to outstanding public relations programs and tools. This year marks the emerald year of the award-giving body, which is considered as the Oscars of public relations and the most coveted prize in the industry.

F5 x

BUSINESSMIRROR Publisher T. Anthony C. Cabangon and DOST Secretary Fortunato dela Pena are joined by South Korean Ambassador Han Dong-Man, who received for his government the “Visit the Philippines” award, for leading visitor arrivals to the country. Dela Pena handed out the Science, Technology, and Innovation Award to the United Kingdom.

agency TWGs for the Category Awards: Foreign News and OpEd editor Angel Calso for the DPWH-TWG, Associate Editor and DA-TWG representative Jennifer Ng, News Editor and representative to the TWGs of DOT and DOTr Vittorio Vitug, Senior Editors Lorenzo Lomibao, Lyn Resurreccion (DOST-TWG member), the late Efleda Campos (TWG member for DepEd and DTI); award-winning reporters Recto L. Mercene, Cai Ordinario, Jasper Arcalas, Elijah Felice Rosales, and Jonathan Liwanes Mayuga; videographer Bernard

Testa and photographers Nonoy Lacza and Roy Domingo.

The BusinessMirror advertising team— Bims Mauricio, Mags Santos, Maynard Moises, Boyet Nicasio; senior account manager Rodel A. Suarez, Events Organizer Carlo Modesto Abalos; BusinessMirror staff Emm Paraiso, Nerliza Nobleza, April Sarabia, Natasha Pangilinan and Dio Reloban; and the night’s hosts Tet Andolong and Migs Anzures helped make the first Mission PHL awards truly successful.

The project also got very capable support from Alas Oplas, CPAs,

the official audit partner of Mission: PHL. Donnies T. Alas (Chairman and CEO) and Marycris S. Oplas (Managing Partner) and their highly competent staff, led by Loraine San Pedro, Sarah Jane Estillore, Myrell Esguerra, Fernan Santos selflessly lent their considerable accounting and auditing expertise to systematize award results.

R&A Events Specialist served as the events company for Mission: PHL 2019 Awarding Ceremonies.

They include Ricci Ang, Mark Joseph “Mr. Super Cool” Bakuteza, Yñigo Ocampo, and their super staff.