BusinessMirror March 09, 2024

By Jonathan L. Mayuga

MEET Angelita Lee and Jesalyn

Guingging,

women miners whose careers in mining continue to shine and show that women are more than capable of simply blending in a maledominated industry.

Women in mining face various challenges as well as opportunities in a traditionally male-dominated industry, such as mining. While the sector has historically been dominated by macho males, the growing recognition of the importance of gender diversity and inclusivity in the workforce in the Philippines is opening the doors for women in mining.

The month of March is celebrated in the Philippines as Women’s Month. It is also during the month that the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, reputedly the most stringent mining law in the world—taking into consideration the well-being of communities through the implementation of the Social Development and Management Program (SDMP)—was enacted.

Mining leadership LITA LEE, President of Eastern Rizal Miners Association, is co-owner of the Rapid City Realty Development Corporation, a quarrying company based in Rizal Province. She is also currently the vice president and treasurer of Rapid City. She is one of the

Eastern Rizal Miners Association, an accredited non-governmental organization of the province of Rizal.

Beyond responsible mining UNDER her watch, she has made it a point to show the province that there is such a thing as responsible mining.

“I made it my goal to facilitate and maintain responsible mining through safety and health seminars, enhancement, and protection of the environment through reforestation, tree planting, and cleaning up of river tributaries. We also safeguard and care for our communities through free medical and dental missions, livelihood programs, sports development, medical activities, and education,” said Lee.

“Even before the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) was ordering companies to do reforestation, we were already doing it,” she said, citing the company’s Inarawan quarry site. “It used to be barren. But when we reforested, it is now thickly covered with forest,” she said. Through reforestation, Lee spearheaded community projects involving communities and the Dumagat-Remontados tribes.

“They are now in seedling production where we source our planting materials. And they earn from it,” Lee said.

According to Lee, women are empowered to blend with their male counterparts in the mining sector

and are performing quite well.

“There are more women who are into mining today. We have mining engineers and geologists who are women. Women are competent. They are meticulous, they are perfectionists. They want to perfect everything,” says Lee.

“Even today, we have women welders who are excellent in welding,” she added.

Environmental stewardship

GUINGGING, the chief environmental officer of the TVIRD Group, is one of the women leaders in the industry who advocate environmental stewardship through various programs. Called “GG” by colleagues, Guingging has been working with miners for 18 years now. Before that, she served in the DENR’s Caraga Regional Office. Today, Guingging is in charge of the Agata Nickel Project’s final rehabilitation program and also

the architect of Agata’s ridge-toreef approach—from upland reforestation activities, down to the successful coral relocation on its shores in Tubay, Agusan del Norte.

One of the components of the ridge-to-reef program is the installation of improvised silt curtains made from abaca which help keep the shores of Tubay clean. The company provided training to the women from the local community to enhance their skills in abaca weaving.

MOTHERS KNOW BEST

Women in a Masbate barangay champion education

By Myn Garcia Country Representative, The Asia Foundation (myngarcia.com)

AFTER household chores, eight mothers in a Masbate barangay come together to take on another role: literacy champions for themselves and their children.

Erlinda Cabarles, a mother of seven, rises at 3 in the morning to do her household tasks. While her family sleeps, she cooks, cleans, and prepares for the day. A barangay nutritionist by profession, she wears many hats: she’s also a teacher under the ABC+: Advancing Basic Education in the Philippines, a project of the Department of Education in partnership with USAID and implemented by RTI International along with The Asia Foundation. The project aims to improve learning outcomes for children in the early grades.

Erlinda is one of eight women behind the neighborhood parent support group (NPSG) of Barangay Tugbo in Masbate, an out-of-theway coastal town off the southeastern peninsula of Luzon, where the closest urban center is a 30-minute tricycle ride away.

In Tugbo, children aged 14 and below make up the lion’s share of the population at 40.5 percent,

according to government data. The barangay estimates some 45 percent of the labor force is unemployed, while school officials say most can neither read nor write.

This was something the NPSG felt they had to solve on their own. And so these women, their own education limited to the elementary level, took up the mantle of literacy champions with the help of their barangay, who made the initial call for volunteers to receive training.

There was a clear desire to learn, but the biggest barrier was often language in a time when there was a gap in the availability of books in the mother tongue in the community.

Through the support of USAID via ABC+, reading materials in the Minasbate language were developed and distributed to all elementary schools. The books, now in their mother tongue, are available in the schools and provided to their children.

Women-led collective action

IT took another woman in Kagawad Maria Cris Cos who lobbied for her district to have a space where children could read. She attended a few learning sessions and decided they needed somewhere they could call their own.

It started with the newly constructed Barangay Learning Center, which functions principally as the main space for the NPSG. For two hours, children read. They’re free to ask about words, stories, or everyday life. They work their way up on meanings, enunciation, and critical thinking day by day, story through story.

Today, the women clock in to

teach up to 30 students, and even their husbands have joined the project to help children love reading. Interest in reading is skyrocketing. Rose Sese, another NPSG member, says they are not just teaching reading—they are teaching the love of it. “We don’t want the kids to read, we want them to want to read,” Rose says in mixed Filipino and English. The most surprising improvement is that it changed their dynamics at home. “Reading was really bonding for me and my kids. We got closer at home. Because here, you really have to be friendly with the children so the environment is lighter,” she says.

And so by starting at home, the Tugbo NPSG earned the backing of DepEd and the local government. Their hope is that other

mothers realize they have the opportunity to do the same.

Erlinda says the impact grew beyond the confines of an educational setting. “I improved myself and the children here around us because before, they would just spend their time loitering around,” she says fresh off a reading session.

The community action of NPSG demonstrates the importance of partnerships and shared accountability between families, schools and communities to build conducive learning environments.

Moving forward

THE mothers have broached the idea of tapping publishing houses for printing books and nearby private sector to provide resources. The mothers envision a future where education is not a privilege

like it was for them but an accessible right. “As long as we’re here, our weekends will continue. This will go on as long as we’re able. As long as the children keep showing up, the learning center will go on,” Erlinda says of the project’s sustainability.

In a small sitio in Barangay Tugbo, the learning gap is soon closing because strong women took the lead together.

For Imelda Viterbo, another NPSG member, it is the children's keen interest in learning and reading that motivates them to pursue their work. “Our first priority will always be our children's literacy,” Imelda said.

Barangay Tugbo’s is a story of women coming together, supporting each other and amplifying their voice as literary champions.

Breaking the gender barrier

In addition to gainful livelihood, the program enables women to play an active role in the economic and environmental development of their community. While most of the men are employed in the company’s mining operations, the women are now given a choice to pursue an alternative source of income.

Guingging said it is difficult for a woman to survive in the mining industry. But with perseverance, the mind, and the heart of a woman, women in mining can even thrive, she stressed.

“We can blend because women have a heart. Not only the brains, but the heart to understand the communities. Because mining is not a widely accepted industry. But if women are sent to communities, we can talk heart-to-heart with the communities, and they understand,” says Guingging.

Respect for women

RESPECT for all women and a high regard for female colleagues is intrinsic to the TVIRD Group of Companies, as recognized by the MGB Central Office—particularly for its effort to promote gender equality in the field of mining at its Balabag Gold and Silver Project. This, according to Kaycee Crisostomo, corporate communications and marketing director at TVI Resource Development Philippines Inc. He noted that TVIRD was also chosen as a model company of the MGB’s Gender and Development Focal Point System (MGB-GADFPS).

Crisostomo said women have taken diverse roles across the organization—from truck drivers, equipment operators, and field personnel, to mining engineers, geologists, and the top post of chief financial officer. Of its 1,072 employees, some 126 or 12 percent are female.

“As an equal-opportunity employer, TVIRD ensures that

women have a dedicated space within the organization—one in which they can further harness their skills and pursue a lucrative career path while balancing both their respective professions and family life,” she said.

Women as backhoe operators

FOR its part, and as a commitment to gender equality, Zambales Diversified Metals Corporation (ZDMC) hires women for its growing workforce. Under its Gender Equality Program, 16 women underwent apprenticeships in Heavy Equipment Operation and Maintenance Courses.

The program included developing the trainees’ technical and analytical skills through a mixture of lectures, hands-on training, team building, coaching, mentoring, and other developmental programs.

Virginia Basa, community relations head of the company, said they saw an opportunity to employ women in the community.

“This program highlights the importance of creating an environment where women can thrive in the workplace and can be as successful as our male colleagues,” added Basa.

All 16 women are currently employed by ZDMC and the company is planning to run the same program this year.

Role of women in rural devt WOMEN play an integral role in their households and communities’ food security, income generation, and overall well-being. However, women and young girls face hurdles that dampen their efforts to improve their lives as well as those of others around them, especially in rural areas.

Knowing this, Philex Mining Corporation strives to support organizations and causes advocating women’s empowerment. One of these is the Saes Community Consumers Cooperative (SaCCCo).

Formerly known as the

Tapsan Women’s Association, SaCCCo is a cooperative focused on economic empowerment and development. When the organization started in 2014, it mostly tackled women’s issues and promoting sustainable livelihood by selling dry goods for the members’ benefit. It also conducted sports leagues and other social activities that strengthened the women in Tapsan in Ampucao, Itogon, and Benguet.

Through its Social Development and Management Program (SDMP), Philex extended a helping hand through training and a seed capital of P150,000 to the former Tapsan Women’s Association. This assistance enabled the association to transform into a cooperative.

With the need for a bigger establishment, Philex awarded a P1.4-million cooperative building and facilities to SaCCCo. Since then, SaCCCo has successfully launched another branch at Benguet Village in Barangay Ampucao, Itogon, and now has over 132 members.

The SDMP continues to support the cooperative to strive for greater heights. Sharing their experience-driven guidance and assistance, SaCCCo serves as one of the company’s partners in developing other livelihood associations.

As part of Philex’s Community Technical Working Group, SaCCCo contributes to leading and facilitating the SDMP community planning activities; reviewing and finalizing policies and guidelines per program; screening, assessing and validating beneficiaries and projects, and coordinating with the barangay local government unit and community members.

SaCCCo, in its efforts to promote rural development in these Benguet communities, strives to extend assistance in far-flung areas to provide communities, especially women, with the tools and resources they need to uplift the quality of their lives.

KAGAWAD Maria Cris Cos, Committee on Education chairperson, discusses the ABC+ program with parents from Tugbo.

ERLINDA CABARLES is a parent leader of the Neighborhood Parent Support Group (NPSG). She enjoys reading with her daughter.

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

Saturday, March 9, 2024

THE country’s domestic liquidity reached P17 trillion in January 2024, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

This marked a 6 percent growth rate compared to January 2023, but slower than the 6.2 percent posted in December 2023.

On a month-on-month seasonallyadjusted basis, BSP said M3 or domestic liquidity decreased by about 0.4 percent.

“Looking ahead, the BSP will continue to ensure that domestic liquidity conditions remain consistent with the prevailing stance of monetary policy, in line with the BSP’s price and financial stability objectives,” BSP said.

The data showed domestic claims expanded by 9.8 percent year-on-year in January from 9.2 percent in the previous month.

BSP said claims on the private sector grew by 8.8 percent. This was the same rate of growth in December.

It increased on the back of higher bank lending to non-financial private corporations and households.

“Consumer loans to residents rose by 25.2 percent in January from 23.9 percent in December, driven by the sustained increase in credit card and motor vehicle loans as well as salarybased general purpose consumption loans,” BSP said in a separate statement.

The data also showed net claims on the central government also rose by 15.9 percent from 14.3 percent due in part to the decline in the deposits of the National Government with the BSP.

Net foreign assets (NFA) in peso terms rose by 4.4 percent year-onyear in January from 4.6 percent in December.

The BSP’s NFA grew by 5.4 percent. Meanwhile, the NFA of banks contracted on account of higher bills payable.

Bank lending

THE BSP data showed outstanding loans of universal and commercial banks (U/KBs) grew 7.8 percent yearon-year in January 2024 from 7.1 percent in December 2023.

“On a month-on-month seasonally-adjusted basis, outstanding universal and commercial bank loans, net of RRPs [reverse repurchases], rose by 0.8 percent,” BSP said. Outstanding loans to residents, net of RRPs, went up by 7.8 percent in January from 7.4 percent in December 2023.

The data also showed outstanding loans to non-residents grew by 9.8 percent in January after declining by 2.9 percent in December.

Outstanding loans for production activities increased by 5.9 percent in January from 5.6 percent in December, mainly due to the increase in loans to major industries, such as real estate activities at 11.4 percent.

The data also showed wholesale and retail trade, and repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles at 7.4 percent; electricity, gas, steam, and air-conditioning supply, 7.3 percent; transportation and storage, 18.2 percent; and construction, 13.6 percent. Cai U. Ordinario

TBy Cai U. Ordinario

HE government’s foreign currency debt payments caused the country’s gross international reserves (GIR) to decline in February 2024, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The data showed the country’s GIR reached $102.671 billion as of February 2024, lower than the $103.27 billion posted at the end of January 2024.

However, compared to the previous year, the country’s GIR in February was higher than the $98.216 billion posted at the end of February 2023.

“The month-on-month decrease in the GIR level reflected mainly the National Government’s [NG] payments of its foreign currency debt obligations,” BSP said. The BSP also said the net international reserves slightly decreased by $0.02 billion to $102.66 billion as of end-February 2024 from the end-January 2024 level of $102.68 billion.

This refers to the difference between the BSP’s reserve assets (GIR) and reserve liabilities, which are short-term foreign debt and credit and loans from the International

Monetary Fund (IMF).

Nonetheless, BSP said, the latest GIR level represents a more than adequate external liquidity buffer equivalent to 7.7 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income.

By convention, BSP said the GIR is viewed to be adequate if it can finance at least three-months’ worth of the country’s imports of goods and payments of services and primary income.

Further, the data showed that the GIR is about six times the country’s short-term external debt based on

TBy Rex Anthony Naval

HE Task Force El Niño, which is chaired by Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” C. Teodoro Jr., requested the Department of Trade and (DTI) to tighten up their price and supply monitoring operations to protect consumers from possible profiteering amid the onslaught of the weather phenomenon.

“Let us ensure that [an] adequate supply of basic necessities and goods are available to the general public, especially those in areas hardest affected by El Niño,” the defense chief said in a statement Thursday night.

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

TTeodoro said this is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s marching orders to ensure that there will be no manipulation of basic goods and commodities.

“We must continue and intensify our close watch over possible fluctuation of prices and supply of basic goods,” he added.

The defense chief noted that such efforts are necessary as theremay be some unscrupulous individuals andgroups that will attempt to take advantage of the prevailing abnormal weather phenomenon.

Under President Marcos’ Executive Order No. 53, which directs the government to streamline, reactivate, and reconstitute the old El Niño task forces under EO No. 16 (s. 2001) and Memorandum Order No. 38 (s. 2019), Teodoro was appointed chairperson of the task force, with Science and Technology Secretary Renato U. Solidum designated as co-chairperson.

Signed on January 19, 2024, President Marcos’ EO directs the task force to develop a comprehensive disaster preparedness and rehabilitation plan for El Niño and La Niña to provide “systematic, holistic, and resultsdriven interventions” to help the public cope and minimize their devastating effects.

The President also designated the following officials as task force members: Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, Secretary of Agriculture Francis Tiu Laurel Jr., Secretary of Health Teodoro J. Herbosa,

and Secretary of National Economic and Development Authority Arsenio M. Balisacan.

The DTI regularly publishes the latest suggested retail price (SRP) bulletin of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPCs) to inform and guide producers, manufacturers, traders, dealers, sellers, retailers, and consumers.

NDRRMC: El Niño agri damage climbs to P1.2B

AGRICULTURE damage amid the ongoing El Niño weather phenomenon has now

original maturity and 3.9 times based on residual maturity.

Short-term debt based on residual maturity refers to outstanding external debt with original maturity of one year or less, plus principal payments on medium- and long-term loans of the public and private sectors falling due within the next 12 months.

The level of GIR, in a particular period, is considered adequate, if it provides at least 100 percent cover for the payment of the country’s foreign liabilities, public and private, falling due within the immediate 12-month period.

reached P1,236,853,305.08 in six regions, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported in its update late Thursday.

Regions whose agriculture had so far had taken a hit in the ongoing El Niño were identified as Regions 1, 2, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, and Regions 6, and 9.

Most of the damage was sustained by Region 6, which recorded P678,705,381.73, followed by Mimaropa at P319, 755,957.97 and Region 2 with P180,473, 413.82.

Meanwhile, Region 1 reported agriculture damage amounting to P54,450,077, followed by Calabarzon at P2,750,947.56 and Region 9 with P717,527.

The NDRRMC also estimated affected crop areas at 26,731.4 hectares as of this update.

Meanwhile, the number of affected farmers and fisherfolk were placed at 29,409.

Meralco power rate up in March due to transmission, ancillary charges hike

By Lenie Lectura

ELECTRICITY rates of the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) will slightly go up this month by P0.0229 per kilowatt hour (kWh), bringing overall rate for a typical household to P11.9397 per kWh this month from P11.9168 per kWh in February.

Meralco reported that generation charge indeed went down by P0.3518 per kWh but this was not enough to offset the upward adjustment in transmission charge.

Charges from Power Supply Agreements (PSA) went down by P0.3045 per kWh mainly due to lower energy payments for the South Premier Power Corp. (SPPC) emergency PSAs and the resumption of operations of the San Bue-

Power Ltd. Co. (SBPL)

power plant after undergoing scheduled maintenance.

Charges from Independent Power Producers (IPP) similarly decreased by P0.1443 per kWh, already reflecting deductions of incremental gas costs for FGPC–Sta. Rita under its new Gas Sale and Purchase Agreement (GSPA), as directed by the Energy Regulatory Commission. These were equivalent to generation charge reductions of P0.0447 per kWh and P0.0866 per kWh for the January and February 2024 supply months, respectively.

Charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) went down by P0.1131 per kWh as the supply situation improved.  Average capacity on outage in the Luzon grid decreased by more than 300MW.

PSAs, IPPs, and WESM accounted for 51 percent, 27 percent and 22 percent, respectively, of Meralco’s total energy requirement for this period.

Other charges also registered a net decrease of P0.0229 per kWh. Pass-through charges for generation and transmission are paid by Meralco to the power suppliers and the grid operator, respectively, while taxes, universal charges,

and the Feed-In Tariff Allowance (FIT-All) are all remitted to the government.

Meralco’s distribution charge, on the other hand, has not moved since the P0.0360 per kWh reduction for a typical residential customer beginning August 2022.

“Our earlier projection of a lower generation charge would have resulted to lower overall rates. However, the steep upward adjustment in the transmission charge effectively wiped out the reduction in generation charges causing a slight uptick in overall rates,” said Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga.

As summer approaches, Meralco reminded the general public to continue practicing energy efficiency for better management of their consumption, which historically rises by 10 to 40 percent during this period.

To better manage their electricity use, Meralco encourages its customers to use its Appliance Calculator (AppCal) available in the Meralco Mobile App. The AppCal provides information on the power consumption of various gadgets and major household appliances.

DBM releases 79.3 percent of ’24 budget as of end-Feb

By Reine Juvierre Alberto

THE release rate of the P5.767-trillion 2024 national budget inched up by 1.4 percent as of end-February, from the 77.9 percent recorded in the previous month.

According to the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) status of allotment release, the agency has released P4.574 trillion, or 79.3 percent of the budget allotted for this year. A total of P1.193 trillion or 20.7 percent of the budget remains undistributed.

Based on DBM’s latest data, the bulk of the budget disbursements were for the national government’s operations under the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and automatic appropriations.

The GAA for 2024, or the Republic Act (RA) No. 11975, was allocated P4.009 trillion of which 87.6 percent or P3.512 trillion has been released. The bulk of the releases, or 95.6 percent, has been allocated for the various government departments with a total of P3.346 trillion.

A total of P165.610 billion, or 32.6 percent, has been allocated for Special Purpose Funds, while P341.870 billion is yet to be released. Meanwhile, P1.091 trillion, or 59.2 percent, has already been distributed for automatic appropriations.

As part of the automatic appropriations, the national tax allotment of P871 billion, block grants worth P70 billion, and pension of former presidents or their widows worth P480,000 have been allocated 100 percent.

Furthermore, net lending worth P28.7 billion and interest payments amounting to P670 billion remained undistributed, while tax expenditures fund/custom duties and taxes have been released with 32.9 percent, or P4.769 billion, disbursed.

Earlier, Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman told the BusinessMirror that it halted the “for later issuance”

of the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) to expedite the release of budgets.

This, she said, would enable state agencies to commence their procurement process for their respective projects and programs.

SARO, as defined by DBM, is a “specific authority issued to identified agencies to incur obligations not exceeding a given amount during a specified period for the purpose indicated.”

“We want programs and projects to be implemented as soon as possible [so] we streamlined the process,” Pangandaman added.

P1.951B disaster fund released

THE DBM has also reported that it released P1.951 billion, or 8.6 percent, of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (NDRRM) fund as of end-February.

Based on the latest data from the DBM, P1.135 billion of the fund was distributed to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

DSWD was also given P875 million, which will cover the replenishment of the FY 2024 Quick Response Fund.

Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways was also allocated P815 million.

The DBM indicated that it distributed P721.503 billion for the implementation of various calamity-related infrastructure projects in Pangasinan and Palawan that were damaged by the Severe Tropical Storm “Maring” and typhoon “Odette” in 2021.

It will also cover the funding requirements for the implementation of various calamityrelated projects in Surigao del Norte damaged by typhoon “Odette” in 2021, which was allotted P93.703 billion.

The 2024 NDRRM fund is P22.735 billion, with a P2.235 billion carryover budget from the 2023 GAA.

A total of P20.784 billion, or 91.4 percent, remains to be undistributed.

Malaysia embassy, Malabon City lead cross-cultural art program

THE Malaysian Embassy led the staging of a cross-cultural art program designed for artists, youth and educators to discover new cultures and traditions.

Dubbed “SENISKWELA,” the program was held last February 26 at the Tinajeros National High School in Malabon City, in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, Artdialogo Asia and the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Schools Division of Malabon City.

The program’s name is derived from the Bahasa Melayu term for art (seni) combined with the shortened Tagalog word for school (eskwela)

It featured a drawing-painting competition, art workshop, panel discussion and breakout sessions that served as platforms for collaboration, talent and leadership development, youth empowerment, and promotion of inclusive public and cultural diplomacy through an artistic and cultural education lens.

Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Mel-

vin Castelino of Malaysia; Mayor Jeannie N. Sandoval of Malabon City; Dr. Cecille G. Carandang, CESO V who is the city’s Schools Division Superintendent; and Charter Club president Joan A. Lagunda graced the event.

Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Malaysia Maria Angela Ponce and Tunku Zain ‘Al-Abidin Tuanku Muhriz of the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs or IDEAS also sent their video messages for the event.

Top multiculturalism expert Dr. Asma Abdullah, Tourism Attaché Yazlina Yahya of the Malaysian Embassy, arts professors Helena Sharon Malins of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde and Martin Jerome G. Gil-Cruz of the University of the Philippines-Diliman, Paper Cutters Guild Philippines found-

BBy Roderick L. Abad

ELIEVING that education is a birth right, Save the Children Philippines has called for more support to learners amid conflict, violence and poverty, particularly in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

BARMM’s Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education Monitoring and Evaluation Team said that poverty, early and forced marriage, as well as the peace and order situation in Sulu hugely impact student retention, resulting to dropouts.

“Most parents here cannot afford the cost of sending their children to school. Many of my students drop out or miss classes because they are forced to help their parents make ends meet,” said Nurin Abdurajan, who is a teacher in one of Save the Children Philippines’ partner schools in Sulu.

As of September 2023, the Bangsam-

oro Region has the biggest number of unschooled children because of the high cost of education at 23.2 percent, per data from the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Worse is that “they can’t even afford to buy…pens,” said Abdurajan. Early or forced marriages are also a common problem there, as shown in the recent consultation of Save the Children with parents and teachers, wherein many young girls tie the knot to ease their financial situation.

Further, many kids and youth were uprooted by family feuds or rido and armed conflicts in the region, which affect their school attendance.

“Because of all of these, many students are discouraged to go to school, and instead look for means to earn instead. They’d rather not study,” shared Abdurajan.

To help address these problems,

er Alberto Magsumbol, as well as visual artists Micah Hilotin and Ethan David Dailo were among the speakers.

Tourism Malaysia’s booth showcased traditional Malaysian costumes for the students to try on and pose for pictures, as they learned more on Malaysian ornaments and crafts that were on display.

Malik also seized the opportunity to visit the DepEd’s district office, and learn about the La Princesa Tabacalera Elementary School’s mangrove-conservation program, learn about the city’s

disaster-management system, as well as marvel the San Bartolome Church and Martinez house’s architecture.

Through SENISKWELA, the Embassy of Malaysia hopes the participants were able to gain exposure to help develop a better understanding of the world around them, including self and cultural awareness, as well as to learn to appreciate similarities and differences of Malaysia and the Philippines’s

Save the Children Philippines came up with “Project SiNDAO 2: Protecting Learning in Conflict and Complex Emergencies in Mindanao” that backs up its partner-schools in Sulu with return-to-learning sessions and semipermanent learning facilities to help affected learners.

Because of this initiative, local students are now 100-percent retained.

The European Union’s humanitarian aid-funded project has so far aided

more than 8,000 conflict-affected children and boys in Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Basilan.

“The Return to Learning Module is helpful in motivating children to learn in a fun environment,” said Abdurajan, as she confirmed that her students are now able to catch up with their lessons since the sessions are centered on enhancing their reading and numerical skills and socio-emotional learning. Also, they received back-to-school kits with new backpacks, raincoats, and contextualized learning materials.

“My parents will

Vicsal Foundation scholarship aims to empower future leaders

N

Iand opportuni-

to deserving individuals. Similar programs, mentorship opportunities, and educational partnerships not only alleviate financial obstacles, but also foster an environment conducive for continuous learning and development.

Vicsal Foundation Incorporated (VSF), operating as the philanthropic arm of Vicsal Development Corp., exemplifies this commitment by providing vital support to financially challenged yet deserving youths through the “VSF Scholarship Program.” Established in 2007, it has provided significant assistance to more than 260 graduates, facilitating access to education for aspiring scholars in the region.

According to Faith Baba, a graduate of the program and now employed as a financial analyst at Metro Retail Stores Group Inc., VSF was a helping guide in finishing scholars’ education: “It lifted the weight of financial worries. VSF enabled me to pursue my dream degree and embark on my career path by providing me the support I needed to focus on academic excellence without the burden of expenses.”

Marco Romano Corpus, another graduate of the program and currently excelling at Taft Properties under the umbrella of the foundation, attested to the influence of the scholarship on his personal development: “As a VSF scholarship recipient, I feel a deep sense of recognition for my efforts and achievements. This acknowledgment has boosted my confidence and motivation, driving me to excel academically and actively contribute to my chosen field.”

Beyond that, the scholarship provides scholars a supportive community and valuable resources that allow them to thrive academically and professionally. According to scholar-graduate Florence Marie Aton, who is now a reports specialist for Store Operations at Metro Retail Stores Group Inc., the program’s comprehensive support enabled scholars to pursue their career goals with confidence.

“Joining Metro Retail Stores Group Inc. was a direct result of

the support provided by the VSF foundation. Even before graduation, the company extended job offers to scholar-graduates, including myself,” Aton stated. “VSF shaped my career path and influenced my professional journey in profound ways.”

Similarly, Jenevive Comaingking who is a scholar-graduate and now a finance and accounting manager in a multinational company in Manila underscored the community and opportunities provided by the VSF scholarship program.

“VSF was the beacon of hope that illuminated my path to success. It provided not only financial support, but also invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth,” Comaingking reflected. “With VSF, I found a supportive community and gained experiences that shaped me into the person I am today. Participating in the foundation’s community outreach programs and environmental movements allowed me to see the power of giving back and inspired me to strive for excellence in all aspects of my life.”

These stories highlight the significant impact of corporate-sponsored scholarships, such as the VSF program, in empowering individuals to pursue their goals, overcome obstacles, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

By investing in education, businesses not only support aspiring scholars, but also contribute to the development of a skilled and innovative labor force vital for societal progress and economic growth. As the program continues its work, VSF remains dedicated to creating opportunities for future generations of students.

For more information about the Vicsal Foundation Scholarship program and ways to apply, visit http:// www.vicsalfoundation.com.

AMBASSADOR Dato’

Castelino (in suit) with students of Tinajeros National High School

SCHOLAR-GRADUATES Faith Krystal Baba (clockwise from top left), Florence Marie Aton, Jenevive Comaingking and Marco Romano Corpus

FLOWERS IN FULL BLOOM

ALL ROADS LEAD TO BAGUIO CITY FOR PANAGBENGA 2024

flowers sold in the city, as well as those which adorn Panagbenga costumes and floats, were grown in La Trinidad’s Sitio Bahong and in higher elevation Benguet towns like Atok.

bracteatum), the city’s official flower (garlands made with these dried strawflowers were among Baguio’s top-selling souvenirs as far back as the 1960s and 1970s). The festival has improved the local cut flower market as most of the

CALAGUAS ISLANDS

Started in May 16, 1996 by civic leaders led by the late lawyer Damaso E. Bangaoet Jr. of the John Hay Poro Point Development Corporation (JPDC), the flower festival was designed to help revive the economy by luring back tourists to a restored Baguio shortly after it was devastated by the July 16, 1990, earthquake. This festival was inspired by the United States’ Pasadena Rose Parade. It also took the best performative elements from festivals in the Visayas, the Rio de Janeiro Carnival in Brazil and the Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. Now on its 28th edition and the second after the Covid 19 pandemic, this year’s festival theme was “Let a Thousand Flowers Bloom.” The magnificent Street Dancing Parade, attracting 15,400 spectators, was organized by the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. (BFFFI).

A return long time coming

Story

IT has been over a decade since my exgirlfriend, a friend, and embarked on a memorable long weekend castaway trip to Calaguas Islands’ Mahabang Buhangin. During that time, the island was known only to avid backpackers. I vividly recall the confused expression on the fisherman’s face when we approached him in the town of Paracale and shared our plan to journey to the island.

“That’s far away.” He told us in Tagalog. “What will you do there? there’s nothing there. The island is bare,” he adds. While the mighty waves of the Pacific Ocean were still unbeknownst to us, we chartered his small boat. It didn’t take long before we started noticing the growing swells rocking and jerking our vessel. The three of us; myself, Lauren and Sharlyn immediately went silent reciting all the prayers we know while our boatman and his assistant remained calm all throughout.

That boat ride going to and from Calaguas’ Mahabang Buhangin, along with almost getting toasted by the sun and the beginning of my attachment to Lauren, remained as the highlights of my first trip to Calaguas.

After my romantic relationship with Lauren fizzled out a few years after she migrated to Canada, I believe it was time to create a new memory in Calaguas more

than a decade later.

Many things have happened since my first trip to the island. From my early days starting to embrace wanderlust in the summer of 2010, I’ve literally and figuratively amassed thousands of miles on the road charting a path escaping the corporate world and becoming a travel writer.

Lauren has chosen to stay in Montreal, while Sharlyn embarked on a new chapter of her life as a married woman and a mother. In Calaguas case, It has since turn into a popular destination among beach junkies. Despite its remote location, travelers have included it in their travel bucket list in the Bicol region.

The once barren island, which used to have a couple of small huts and a tiny well for water supply, has now undergone significant changes. Today, at least four resorts have been built on the island. Yet, despite the major changes that occurred, the island remains beautiful as ever. This became clear to me as soon as our boat docked on the island’s notable white powdery sands. “

Ganda pa ren ” (It’s still pretty), I mumbled to myself as I sunk my feet into the crystal-clear waters and gently weaved my way to the cool fine sands that stretched as far as both sides of the island.

The parade, depicting themes revolving around flowers and native Cordillera traditions, featured students outfitted in costumes depicting flowers or in flower-ornamented native attire. Music was provided by a modern drum and lyre ensemble as well as from gongs and other ethnic instruments.

This Saturday’s street dancing performers were made up of six teams of elementary school pupils; the Baguio City National High School; and six delegations from Gabaldon, Palayan City and San Carlos in Nueva Ecija province; Rizal town in Kalinga province; Bani town in Pangasinan province; and Narvacan town in Ilocos Sur. The parade also featured Philippine Military Academy’s (PMA) color guard, band and cadets; and delegations from Baguio’s sister cities—Gongju, Yeonsu-Go and Taebel in the Republic of Korea; and Honolulu in Hawaii, USA.

The next day, Sunday, was the highlight and crowning glory of the Panagbenga Festival—the Grand Flo-

ral Parade. The parade, from Session Road to the Melvin Jones Grandstand in Burnham Park, is a major crowd drawer, featuring eye-catching floats designed by the city’s imaginative minds and entered by schools, business establishments and other civic organizations. These are bedecked with thousands of indigenous Cordillera flora. Three floral carts, 14 medium-sized floats and 13 largesized floats floral carts rolled down Session Road towards Burnham Park for about two hours.

Most of the floats favored fantasy designs. The Baguio City entry, with Miss Baguio 2022 Krishna Gravidez on board, featured the head of a horned ram or deer (called Lampong, the “guardian of animals”) leaning up from a forest backdrop. By melding the animal’s torso with the mountain contour, the Baguio float could depict “how nature and wildlife are connected.”

Celebrities, lending their star power to the flower-decked carriages, were the eye candies for spectators. Singer-

actress Lovi Poe was on the Ever Skin Care Depot (SCD) float filled with giant mushrooms made of flowers while basketball legend Benjie Paras, with his son, athlete-turned-actor Andre, rode a float commissioned by Palawan Pawnshop. Senator Lito Lapid, with son Mark Lapid (Chief Operating Officer of Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority or TIEZA), were on board the agency’s eco-friendly float featuring the rich biodiversity of the Balicasag Island Dive Resort in Panglao (Bohol).

The cast (former senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., Carmi Martin, Beauty Gonzales, Lianne Valentin, Maey Bautista, EJ Falcon and Nino Muhlach) of the GMA 7 sitcom Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis (“No Such Thing as a Tough Cop with a Crafty Wife)” were atop the television network’s vibrant float which featured large birds made of pink, red and yellow flowers.

Other floats also served as a platform for social issues and call to action by some government agencies. The

Commission on Elections (Comelec) float, displaying a flower-encrusted ballot box, had a “ Magparehistro ka (Register)” banner to remind people to sign up for the next polls. Another float, called the “Guardians of Hope,” carried a giant Superman-like figure made of blue and red flowers. It was commissioned by the newlyformed National Authority for Child Care (NACC) to encourage families to adopt abandoned or neglected children and foundlings. The float also featured NACC mascots “Super Ampon” and “Wonder Foster.” The month-long festival also featured an exhibition of ornamental plants and flowers (Panagbengascapes: A Garden Exhibit); plant and flavor fair (Baguio Blooms: A Market Encounter); professional and school-based competitions in landscaping and flower arrangement; fluvial parade (with eight competing floats) at Burnham Lake; art contest; family fair; cultural dance presentations; kite-flying challenge, a sponsors exhibit and a grand aerial fireworks display.

it by indulging in a leisurely swim, going for long walks, or simply relaxing on soft cushions or a hammock beneath a tree.

Balagbag Island Side Trip

UNLIKE my first Calaguas Islands trip, this time got to go on a side excursion to another island in the cluster called Balagbag Island where a panorama view of the surrounding waters and islands awaited us.

While the sands of Balagbag are less refined than in Mahabang Buhangin, it compensates for this with its picturesque rolling terrain. A winding trail, lined with tall swaying grass, leads to rocky cliffs with a breathtaking view of the ocean’s azure-colored waters and its foamy swells.

After making my way down from the tallest rocky outcrop, found a flat ground and sat there to take in the view before flying my drone to get a bird’s-eye perspective of the jaw dropping landscape.

Just before sundown, our little party of travel journalists returned to Mahabang Buhangin. Since it was a weekday, we had the whole stretch of the beach to ourselves. With the cool powdery sands on my feet and the warm waters swallowing my body, I allowed myself to get lost in the embrace of Mahabang Buhangin one more time.

While would prefer the naked Calaguas Island’s Mahabang Buhangin of old, the present-day

with its aptly

As the sun gradually sets on the horizon, the memories of my 2010 trip to Calaguas begin to blend seamlessly with my current experience of the place. I find these two remarkable episodes taking place in this stunning part of Camarines Norte as timestamps reminding me of how far I’ve come—literally as a traveler.

A8 Saturday,

www.businessmirror.com.ph

YE R a o, I attended a roundtable dis ussion hosted by a tel o. The panelists ere millennial do- ooders ho pro eeded to say they only anted to or ith youn people li e themselves be ause old people ere slo , not reative, and too ons ious of the time they put in at or No su h thin happened hen tarbu s hilippines hosted a tron Li eCo fee onversation at its bad antos Community tore featurin four omen, in ludin amie ilva, senior mana er for mar etin , di ital ustomer e perien e and loyalty at tarbu s hilippines. This time, there ere no tal s about boomers bein la y. The four omen and my friend Charisse Vil he tarbu s mar etin and lobal responsibility mana er , ho moderated the dis ussion, simply shared their e perien es and dished out pra ti al tips for the audien e, youn omen a ed to from Youn o us oundation and Learnin Center. Throu h the bad antos store in Tondo, anila, tarbu s hilippines dire tly supports youth edu ation. portion of every pur hase ontributes to s holarships and a ter-s hool learnin pro rams of its nonpro it partners.

side from ilva, the tron Li eCo fee panelists in luded Lynn inu u, the ofounder of ano mi a hilippines, an or ani ation that provides edu ation opportunities and ommunity development servi es, and he Tal s sia, a omen empo erment ommunity and advo a y a en y visual artist nina ubio and ntoinette adaone, a multia arded ilipina ilmma er and dire tor.

The ladies tal ed about many topi s and amon the sub e ts ta led ere mental ellbein , professional ro th, and the importan e of environmental ste ardship. They also shared some of their s hool e perien es. inu u shared that as a youn irl, she as madungis and burara un empt and unor ani ed I love s hool, hi h is hy I run a s hool no , but I am the type na I did my home or pero naiwan ko sa bahay I le t it at home . I on e tried puttin otton

andy in prite and pi ed it up ith my hands to eat it. f ourse, hat happened as that I made a bi mess. No I am a tea her kahit na madungis at burara ako o you an be anythin you ant to be, said inu u. I as a ilm student in olle e and I really en oyed hat I as doin . I loved oin to s hool and doin hat I loved, li e learnin about ilm and holdin a amera. I ent to s hool be ause I anted to learn. It as a plus fa tor that the people I spent my time ith also li ed the thin s that I did, said adaone. ilva spo e about the importan e of havin a lear areer vision and the le ibility to navi ate diversity. rior to oinin tarbu s, I e plored various industries to broaden my perspe tive. There is no sin le pres ribed areer tra e tory. y embra in the transformative po er of edu ation and a for ardthin in mindset, no limitations an onstrain your ourney. or e your path as a oman empo ered to shape her o n destiny, said ilva, hose ourney e empli ies the si ni i an e of ontinuous learnin adaptability, and the pursuit of one’s passions to arve out a ful illin areer path. inu u shared that she used to dream of be omin a ournalist. I didn’t stop ritin . I didn’t stop readin ood boo s be ause I heard that’s the best ay to learn ho to rite. inally, inu u’s dream of ritin for a ne spaper ame true hen she be ame an opinion olumnist for a broadsheet.

It’s easy to ompare our ourney to others but e need to stop that. It is important to as , hat is it

that you ant to stren then in yoursel ’ hether it’s publi spea in , be omin a leader, or ritin , pra ti e and do hat you an to be ood at it. The onstant pra ti in as really helpful to me. ubio shared her personal advo a y for sustainability and environmental onservation. e an all ta e are of the planet in our o n, small ays. personal e ample is hen I order my favorite tarbu s drin , I ma e sure to al ays brin a reusable up to minimi e my usa e of plasti . These little a ts of servi e for the planet ill o a lon ay, said ubio.

ur Community tore’s dedi ation to youth edu ation unders ores our mission to ma e a meanin ful impa t on the ne t eneration ithin our lo al ommunities. s e elebrate International omen’s Day and honor our future leaders, it’s ru ial to re o ni e the pivotal role edu ation plays in shapin pro ressive thin ers and empo erin omen to brea free from so ietal onstraints, allo in them to e el in their endeavors and pursue their passion, said ilva. The four ladies also tal ed about the importan e of mental health. ilva said e all need to ta e are of our body and mind to ether. e ta e are of our bodies but e’re not ust bodies, e have our mind too, said inu u. or more information on tarbu s hilippines’ initiatives, visit and follo tarbu s hilippines on their so ial-media pa es a eboo , formerly T itter , Insta ram, and Ti To

It’s easier and more onvenient to turn plans into a tual dates throu h superapps li e Grab not to mention the ost-e fe tiveness it o fers. ith the savin s I ot throu h Dine-In, I as able to ma e my date ith my partner more spe ial by addin a fe more additional t ists to our elebration, shares olle e student at.

ID the need for di ital transformation ithin private ban s and ealth mana ement in the ountry at present, e urity an Corp. has partnered ith valo to di itali e further its operations hile meetin the e pe tations and enhan in the e perien e of ustomers.

o hile the hilippine e onomy ontinues to ro e e pe t the ealth mana ement proposition to outpa e that. hat e need from here is not ust a s ale of addin more people. e have an advanta e no to reate ourselves an opportunity here e use te hnolo y to fa e those demands of the lients, e urity an inan ial mar ets head rnold en o told reporters in an intervie durin their re ent si nin of a reement in a ati City.

Given today’s di ital a e, the overnment and the ban in industry need to brin the unban ed or underserved more into the inan ial e osystem hile levera in on di ital tou hpoints that are available to everyone.

The ban in e osystem in the hilippines has a lon ay to o in di itali ation if you ompare it ith mature mar ets in outheast sia, said e urity an e e utive vi e president, and head of enterprise te hnolo y and operations Lu ose Eralil.

This holds true also for the ealth mana ement here ompared to those abroad, li e in in apore and on on no the t o main boo in enters in sia for many multinational ban s sin e they have been o ferin su h servi e for a number of years already and, re ulatory- ise, have also one throu h those y les in terms of understandin hat are the ri ht ris ontrols in pla e, a ordin to valo ommer ial head for sia a i i , the iddle East and fri a Gery Da hlan.

hen it omes to this mar et, there is also obviously still some ay to o in terms of the re ulators. Clearly, it’s on the ban ’s ourney in terms of o ferin ne produ ts and servi es. nd that ill obviously spur the re ulators to ensure they have the ri ht ris ontrols in pla e, he unders ored. Re o ni in the need for di ital shi t, e urity an has laid out a three-year te hnolo y roadmap that ill allo it to be ome a ame- han er and di ferentiator in the inan ial industry.

art of this plan is the ne partnership aimed at helpin the di itali ation of its ealth mana ement business ith the valo Core latform that is also apable to standardi e or lo s and enable the o ferin of a full spe trum of bespo e investment advisory servi es and produ ts to hi h net orth and a luent lients. Due to the platform’s operational e i ien y ains li e the hi h strai ht-throu h pro essin T and servi e a ura y rates for payments, se urities and fund pro essin , the ban an fo us more resour es on providin personali ed servi e, reatin ne innovative o ferin s, and e pandin into ne mar ets and lient se ments. lso in luded in the ollaboration is the rollout of valo ’s

When well-hearing means well-being

WHEN I was growing up, some of the funniest bits of comedy in movies and TV I could remember o ten involved people with hearing disabilities. And though it makes me feel quite guilty now for being insensitive, back then any sort of disability was once considered a goldmine for comedy.

You’ve probably seen those funny clips on YouTube or Tiktok where a character mishears a dramatic confession as something mundane, leading to a cascade of awkward, yet humorous situations. Or, when someone shouts exaggeratedly slow and loud to a character with hearing loss, as if volume alone could bridge the communication gap. Another comedic but clichéd scenario features the old trope of the hearing aid malfunction, turning a quiet room into a feedback screech concert, or perhaps picking up radio signals at the most inopportune moments.

You know what isn’t funny, though? The fact that many of us will develop some form of hearing disability as we age.

HAVE YOU HEARD?

I AGINE a world where the so t whispers of a loved one, the joyful laughter of a child, the soothing sounds of nature, or—to make it more relatable to the current generation—hear Taylor wi t songs...imagine not being able to hear any of that for the rest of your life?

According to the World Health Organization, nearly 2.5 billion people are projected to have some degree of hearing loss, and at least 700 million will require hearing rehabilitation by 2050.

Even more disturbing is that it’s not just the elderly who are at risk. Over a billion young adults are teetering on the brink of irreversible hearing loss due to reckless listening habits. A striking two-thirds of individuals over the age of 60 experience hearing loss, indicating its prevalence among the aging population.

Notably, there’s a trend toward people adopting hearing aids approximately two years earlier than in previous generations.

This shi t underscores a growing awareness of hearing loss’s broad implications and the bene its of early intervention. Despite common misconceptions, hearing loss is not merely a sensory issue but a comprehensive health concern that necessitates attention and care. The signi icance of hearing health extends far beyond the basic ability to sense sound; it can profoundly a fect one’s ability to engage socially and emotionally, gradually eroding the capacity for e fective communication and connection with others. It can diminish feelings of safety and participation in the community, impacting one’s social life and overall sense of well-being.

HEARING CARE FOR GENERATIONS

LA T week, we lew to Cebu as anila Hearing Aid (MHA), and Phonak, a global player in innovative hearing solutions, introduced the Lumity series, the next generation of lifestyle-centric hearing aids that are designed for all kinds of lifestyle.

The event gathered hearing care advocates alongside key stakeholders involved in bringing the Lumity Slim Hearing Aid to the Philippines. Doctor Liza Abaño-Robles, president of MHA, underscored the company’s legacy and highlighted the signi icance and features Phonak Lumity Shine had to o fer modern consumers.

“Many Filipinos tend to downplay hearing loss or even consider it as unnoticeable. That’s why our main goal is to send a message that hearing wellness is just as important and should be considered as part of one’s overall health,” said Abaño-Robles, further stressing that MHA’s partnership with Phonak is part of their commitment “to provide top-of-the-line and the most advanced and strategically tech-driven audiological products that enhance the quality of life through improved hearing.”

Manila Hearing Aid, the leading hearing care

provider in the Philippines, is a pioneer in hearing care since 1976. For over 47 years, it took the mantle of providing the latest in hearing solutions and diagnostic testing to the nation. Today, Manila Hearing Aid has 16 clinics nationwide and has partnered with numerous international hearing solution provider brands to achieve its long-term vision of making hearing health more accessible for Filipinos.

“Phonak Lumity Shine is designed with a focus on enhancing speech clarity and minimizing background noise, o fering a premier solution aimed at enriching the lives of individuals with hearing challenges. Featuring innovative rechargeable options and advanced functionalities like auto-scans, speech sensors, and steer-zoom, Phonak demonstrates a deep commitment to improving the auditory experience through its latest o ferings,” explained Abaño-Robles.

To highlight the profound impact of acquiring an assistive listening device, Andrea Kyra Mahinay, a renowned commercial model, in brand advocate for MHA, shared her inspiring story. She detailed her transition from coping with the di iculties posed by hearing loss to experiencing a world illed with clarity and equilibrium. Andrea even recounted the joy of fully enjoying a Taylor Swi concert, made possible by the advanced technology of Phonak hearing aids.

Tze Peng Chua, the managing director of Sonova Singapore, delved into the rich history of the brand, underscoring the collaborative endeavors that fuel Phonak’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in the realm of hearing care.

MAKING CONVERSATIONS SHINE

THE Lumity series has positioned itself as an all-around hearing care solution by e fectively addressing the diverse quality-of-life needs and varying degrees of hearing loss experienced by consumers.

Speci ically tailored to navigate the intricate challenges that individuals encounter in their daily lives, Lumity shines with its distinctive feature: an ability to have a much-improved speech understanding, especially in noisy environments. Seamlessly integrating improved hearing into daily activities and conversations is the central ideology of an e fortless auditory experience. Whether engaging in meaningful conversations or amid ambient noise, Phonak Lumity empowers users to concentrate on the sounds that truly matter, contributing signi icantly to an improved quality of life.

The hero product in the Lumity line is the Phonak Slim Lumity, an award-winning hearing aid with a sleek ergonomic design. It earned the prestigious title of Hearing Technology Innovator 2023 in the hearing aid design category as recognized by Hearing Health & Technology Matters (HTTM).

The modern and state-of-the-art design of Phonak Slim is cra ted to naturally match the contour of the ears, serving not only clinical purposes but also as a stylish hearing solution, combining functionality and style in one powerful device. Phonak Slim addresses the stigma toward traditional bulky design by bringing in sleek and stylish-looking hearing aids. The Phonak Slim is a unique, premium device available in four colors to match individual styles and boost con idence.

The Phonak Slim seamlessly integrates with the myPhonak app and Bluetooth-enabled devices, enhancing your connection to the surrounding world. The myPhonak app is designed for ease of use and o fers several valuable features along with customization options. It empowers you to manage your hearing experience actively, supports your well-being, and e fortlessly complements your daily routine. The latest update introduces Optional TwoFactor Authentication for enhanced security and a new Widget for swi t navigation to your favorite app features. It establishes a direct link with your Phonak hearing aids, o fering a tailored hearing experience.

As a testament to its commitment to expanding its o fering to the ever-changing consumer needs, the Lumity series also introduces the Phonak Naida Lumity, referred to as one of its most powerful hearing aids tailored for moderate to severe hearing loss. With customizable settings for speci ic listening situations and improved noise cancellation, it promises resilience in virtually every scenario.

Phonak Audéo Life Lumity also stood out as one of the best-selling products from Manila Hearing

Aid. It holds the distinction of being the world’s irst waterproof rechargeable hearing aid and pioneering the new SmartSpeech technology. As an addition to the Lumity lineup, the Phonak C OS Lumity is built for individuals facing unaidable hearing loss in one ear. This model seamlessly integrates with compatible Phonak hearing aids, amplifying environmental awareness by transmitting sounds from the unaidable ear to the hearing aid- itted good ear, resulting in an uninterrupted listening experience.

Following the launch, Sng LayChoo, senior audiologist and brand champion for Phonak Asia, guided us through a demonstration of the Phonak Lumity Slim. She also introduced us to “Roger,” an innovative wireless technology designed to transmit speech directly to hearing aids and cochlear implants, e fortlessly bridging the gap created by distance and ambient noise.

Roger microphones, functioning akin to an additional auditory input, signi icantly enhance the ability of individuals with hearing loss to engage in learning, working and social activities with ease. This technology creates a seamless connection, transmitting the speaker’s voice from a Roger microphone directly to the listener’s hearing device. Although it is not required to be used with the Phonak devices, the Roger mic works best for meetings,

conferences and making presentations allowing the user to focus on every conversation.

Our “ears-on” experience extended to a guided city tour of Cebu, wearing the Phonak Slim. The hearing aids remarkably isolated background noise, enabling us to concentrate on our tour guide’s narrative despite being 10-15 meters away. LayChoo explained that with a clear line of sight, the hearing aids could e fectively capture the transmission from the Roger microphone from as far as 20 meters.

Our unique experience concluded with a “silent” yoga session the next day. Again, equipped with the Phonak Slim, we listened to the yoga teacher who voiced her instructions via the Roger microphone, ensuring that we were the only ones to hear her voice, so as not to disturb the other guests during the very early morning.

With the launch of the Lumity series in the Philippine market this month, Manila Hearing Aid and Phonak are poised to rede ine excellence in the hearing care sector by providing tailored hearing solutions for every individual’s needs. This initiative rea irms Manila Hearing Aid’s commitment to enhancing the holistic well-being of Filipinos through superior hearing care solutions.

For more information, visit www.manilahearingaid. com.ph

INSPIRED by the success of the film Wonka which captivated global audiences when it was released in December, Globe At Home is offering its postpaid subscribers a complimentary viewing experience via HBO GO and special goodies when they upgrade their plans online at glbe.co/ GAHPlanUpgradeForm.

Starting March 8, customers who upgrade to GFiber Plan 2699 will enjoy an array of benefits, including a free 12-month HBO GO subscription,

FROM left: Dr. Liza Abaño-Robles, president of Manila Hearing Aid; Susan Javier, Manila Hearing Aid Clinic training consultant; Sng Lay Choo, senior audiologist and brand champion of Phonak Representative Services Sonova Singapore; Kyra Mahinay, Manila Hearing Aid’s brand ambassador; and Tze Peng Chua, managing director of Sonova Singapore.

Major French union threatens Olympics

followed huge demonstrations last year against the rise in retirement age. Binet said thousands of workers will be impacted by the hosting of the Games, forced to work longer hours and postpone their holidays.

“What are the social conditions of this work? ” Binet posed. “How are we going to accommodate all the workers who will have to come to [the Paris region] for the Olympics? How are we going to take care of their children when they’re the ones who have to work? What kind of bonuses will they get? Paris Olympics organizing head Tony Estanguet said last month he

Pacquiao’s return vs younger Benn under negotiation

MANNY PACQUIAO’S potential return to the ring is shaping up in Saudi Arabia as the former eighth-division’s team is negotiating a fight with England’s Conor Benn. And because the deal has yet to be finalized, no specific date or venue were announced while both camps are on the negotiation table.

“It’s

British Boxing Board of Control for failing a doping test and marked his return with a majority win over Mexico’s Orozco last September 23 in Orlando, Florida, before beating American Peter Dobson last February 3 in Las Vegas. Pacquiao and Gibbons met with Benn and Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn on Thursday during the weigh-in for the Anthony Joshua-Francis Ngannou heavyweight showdown Friday at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.

Pacquiao was invited to be at ringside for the fight by Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority. Pacquiao owns a 62-8-2 win-lossdraw with 39 knockouts while Benn is undefeated in 23 fights with 14 knockouts. Josef Ramos

HE Spikers’ Turf is all set to elevate its game with a promising new season featuring nine formidable teams led by defending champion Cignal that kicks off with the Open Conference on March 13 at the Paco Arena in Manila. The organizing Sports Vision Management Group Inc. said that games will be held not only at the Paco Arena but also at the PhilSports Arena and Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila and at the

hopes trade unions will not “ruin the party” by calling strikes during the Games.

Disruptions are, however, already expected in the transportation network since the CGT announced a seven-month strike notice over pay issues at transport operator RATP from February 5 to September 9.

In reaction to protests, the government agreed this year that police officers deployed during the Olympics will receive bonuses of up to 1,900 euros ($2,050). Asked specifically about the strikes in hospitals, Binet said it’s urgent for the government to inject more funding into those located in

the Paris region if France wants to be able to deal with the influx of visitors.

“The state of hospitals is catastrophic,” she said. “We are very, very, very worried about how it will be this summer. It won’t be possible to blackmail staff once again by asking them to work more overtime and call into question their paid leave. They are exhausted, and can’t take it anymore. We need a recruitment plan.”

French health workers have for years demanded more hiring and better salaries in public hospitals. Years of cost cuts left medics submerged when the Covid-19 pandemic hit. AP

Chan tops PGT Q-school with final round 68

AMATEUR standout Aidrid Chan marked his transition to the professional ranks with a remarkable victory in the Philippine Golf Tour (PGT) Q-School as he overhauled a four-stroke deficit with a 68 and secured the low medal honors by three shots at the South Pacific Golf and Leisure Estates in Davao City on Friday.

Kuresh Samanodi initially hiked his lead to five strokes with a birdie-birdie feat against Chan’s bogey-eagle start, but the tide shifted as Chan, displaying resilience and skill, recorded four birdies against two bogeys in the next 14 holes.

In contrast, the two-day leader struggled with six bogeys in the same stretch and wound up with a 75, enabling Chan to wrest the lead.

Chan held sway to the finish, matching Samanodi’s birdie on No. 17 to spike a pair of 34s for a four-day total of four-under 284 to clinch the top spot and lead 29 others who earned spots in this year’s PGT. The 10-leg circuit kicks off with a two-leg Davao swing on March 12 for the Internaitonal Container Terminal Services Inc. Apo Golf Classic, followed by the Palos Verdes Championship from March 19 to 22, alongside the 54-hole Ladies PGT.

“My game has really been peaking lately and I feel everyone has been a part of the journey,” said Chan, express ing gratitude to his family, to God, supporters, pal Paolo Wong and coaches J3 Altea and Tony Lascuña.

Despite being four shots behind Samanodi after 54 holes, Chan focused on putting up a low score rather than catching up, underscoring his strategic

approach to the game.

Needing to bounce back from an early slip, Chan did just that, coming through with a solid 5-iron second shot that landed just before the second green. He then knocked down a 60-degree wedge chip for eagle.

While the outcome resulted in a rout, Chan said it was practically close throughout, stressing: “At some point, we were all in contention, there were only two or three shots separating us.”

But Samanodi failed to recover and limped with a three-over card, slipping to second at 287 while Korean amateur Min Hyeok Yu fired a 71 for third at 288, and Japanese Ozeki Kakeru placed fourth at 292 after a 74.

also closed out with a two-over card while Kristoffer Arevalo shot a 75 as they shared fifth place at 293, while Korean Gwon Minwook rallied with a 70 for joint seventh at 294 with Japan’s Toru Nakajima, who regained his Tour card with a 74.

Joseph Labajo turned in a 73 for ninth at 295 while Japanese Kota Fukuyama and Daiya Suzuki charged back with 69 and 71, respectively, to tie for 10th at 296 in the tournament organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments Inc.

MAGNOLIA teammates Paul Lee and Aris Dionisio emerged this early as the prohibitive favorites to top the first ever twin three-point shootout contest in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) All-Star festivities.

Lee is out to defend the title he won in spectacular fashion last year in Passi City, Iloilo, while Dionisio appeared to be the early frontrunner in taking the crown in the special three-point contest featuring 12 of the league’s big men.

The 35-year-old Lee scored 28 points during the finals and bested Marcio Lassiter of San Miguel Beer and Juami Tiongson of Terrafirma in winning his first long distance shootout title.

Lassiter will again crowd the Magnolia guard in this year’s edition of the All-Star weekend in Bacolod City on March 23 and 24, together with twotime champion James Yap (Blackwater), Maverick Ahanmisi (Barangay Ginebra), Aleck Stockton (Converge), Chris Newsome (Meralco), Tyler Tio (Phoenix) and Arvin Tolentino (Northport).

Completing the cast among the guards and wingmen are Andrei Caracut (Rain or Shine), Rob Herndon (NLEX), Javi Gomez de Liano (Ter -

rafirma) and Calvin Oftana (NLEX).

Meanwhile, the 6-foot-4 Dionisio, averaging 38 percent career shooting from beyond the arc, will try to become the first player to win the three-point shooting among the bigs—an event which took the place of the traditional slam dunk contest.

Entered in the event together with Dionisio are veterans Sean Anthony (NLEX), Mo Tautuaa (San Miguel), and Jason Perkins (Phoenix), together with young guns Brandon GanuelasRosser (TNT), Isaac Go (Terrafirma), Keith Datu (Rain or Shine), JM Calma (Northport), Brandon Bates (Meralco), Keith Zaldivar (Converge), Christian David (Blackwater) and Ralph Cu (Barangay Ginebra).

DHEA CUA sets her sights on a fourth consecutive “double” victory in the Ronald Barrios Cup National Juniors Tennis Championships which got under way Friday at the Kidapawan City Club in Cotabato.

Cua targets 4th ‘double’ in Kidapawan

Universal Tennis Ranking (UTR).

Meanwhile, Daiki Ueda of Japan leaned on a strong frontside 33 to cushion the impact of a bogey-par-bogey finish, his 71 earning him the last spot at joint 29th with Jelbert Gamolo, who put in a 74 for a pair of 308s.

Brent Sumampong missed forcing a playoff for the last berth as he double bogeyed the last hole, ending up with a 76 for 31st at 309.

The Top 30 thus earned Category 6 status while those outside the Top 30 settled for Category 7 level.

Also making it to this year’s 10-leg PGT circuit slated at the country’s championship courses are Randy Garalde (72), Ramil Bisera (74), and Korean Chon Koo Kang (75), who matched 298s; American Collin Wheeler (74) and amateur Edmar Salvador, Jr. (75), who assembled 300s; Elmer Saban (66), Carlos Packing (74) and Paul Echavez (75), who carded identical 301s; Korean amateur Tae Won Kim (72), amateur John Michael Uy (77) and Japan’s Kei Matsuoka (77), who pooled 302s; Eric Gallardo (74) and Emilio Panimdim, Jr. (75), who carded 305s; amateur Ryan Monsalve (73) and Magno Arancon, Jr. (74), who posted 306s; and Ivan Monsalve (75) and Japanese Koji Inoue (77), who finished with 307s.

Spikers’ Turf set to open with bigger, better serving

Santa Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna. Tournament director Mozzy Ravena expressed enthusiasm about the growth and vision for the men’s league while emphasizing the organization’s commitment to provide fans with a more extensive and thrilling tournament. “It’s going to be a bigger and more exciting men’s tournament. To many of us here, it was just a dream before—as much as we appreciate the women’s game that has risen in popularity,” said Ravena during the league’s inaugural press confer-

ence at Discovery Suites Ortigas Friday. “That is the vision that we’ve always had years and years ago. Internationally, the men’s game is really popular, so it’s about time that we do the same,” she added.  Challenging Cignal are D’Navigators, Maverick, PGJC-Navy, Philippine Air Force, RichMarc Sports, Savouge Aesthetics, VNS Nasty and the newly-formed Criss Cross. Spikers’ Turf president Alyssa Valdez, Creamline’s ace player in the

Premier Volleyball League, said the teams this year are solid. “One thing that’s different this year is the teams are very solid…definitely quality games. Hopefully, the fans will appreciate men’s volleyball,” Valdez said. Play will be a single round preliminaries with the top four advancing to the semifinals, also a single-round robin phase, with the top two disputing the championship and the bottom two clashing for the bronze, both best-of-three.

Cua is a standout contender in the tournament’s Group 2 category presented by Dunlop and a vital part of the Palawan Pawnshop (PPS)-Palawan Express Pera Padala junior circuit.

Although seeded fourth No in the girls’ 16-and-under and awaiting updated rankings in the 18-andunder category, Cua remains the player to beat in Kidapawan.

Out to foil her drive in the premier class are Chelsea Bernaldez, sisters Althea and Aika Salahuddin and doubles partner Sanschena Francisco with Aika Salahuddin also providing the challenge in the 16-and-under division, alongside Camille Clar and Jamnah Otico.

The boys’ side promises intense battles with top seed Chad Globasa also eyeing a sweep of the top two titles.

He faces in the 18-and-under category Randy Pausanos, Iñigo Barrios and Pete Cua, while Mohammad Mosaid, Shalimar AbaConding and Barrios go all-out to stop Globasa in the 16-and-under play of the tournament sanctioned by the Philippine Tennis Association, PPS-National Training Center and

Close to 250 entries across nine age-group divisions are disputing top honors in the week-long tournament backed by UTR and Slazenger with the four boys’ categories and three in the girls’ division drawing full-packed 32-player rosters, underscoring the enthusiasm of young players from the host city and nearby provinces.

Meanwhile, action in the longrunning talent-search, sponsored by Palawan Pawnshop president and CEO Bobby Castro, shifts to Lucena next week at the Inigos Resort. For details, contact event organizer Bobby Mangunay at 0915-4046464.

Leading the charge in the 14-andunder side are Krelz Jan Gecosala, Julius Otoc, Axlejeal Cubelo and Krisnel Batilo (boys) and Jamnah Otico, Princess Placa, Jhuane Flores and Pat Bonilla (girls), while Kresthan Belacas, Jaycee Compa, Gabriel Francisco and Jon Roceta (boys) and Daneea Sinsuat and Justine Gumbao (girls) top-bill the 12-and-under division.

But as the action unfolded in Cotabato, the anticipation for another dominating performance from Cua is evident, given her recent triumphs in the Gov. Edwin Jubahib Cup in Davao del Norte, the Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas Championship in Digos CIty and the Gov. Yvonne Cagas tournament in Davao del Sur over the past three weeks.

PBBM to visit Germany, Czech Republic next week

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will be pushing for stronger maritime, labor, and business ties with Germany and the Czech Republic during his visit to Europe next week.

“These trips are all in support of the President’s development agenda for the well being of our country and the progress of the Filipinos,” Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant SecretaryMaria Elena P. Algabre said in a news conference in Malacañang Friday.

The President will be on a working visit in Germany on March 12 and 13, 2024, upon the invitation of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

While in Germany, Marcos will witness the signing of aJoint Declaration of Intent (JDI), which will facilitate maritime trade and mobility of Philippine and German-owned commercial vessels.

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the German Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training will also be signing a cooperation program ontechnical and vocational education and training (TVET).

Labor agreement

ALGABRE said the President is then scheduled to a state visit at the Czech Republic on March 14 and 15, 2024 where he will meetCzech President Petr Pavel and Prime Minister Petr Fiala, as well as the heads of the Czech parliament: the Senate President Miloš Vystrčil and the president of the Chamber of Deputies Markéta Pekarová Adamová.

During the state visit, a joint communique will be signed for the establishment of a labor consultations mechanism, which aims to enhance cooperation between the Philippines and the Czech Republic for the safe and orderly migration of Filipino workers, as well as for the provision of higher protection of their rights and welfare.

“There are also other agreements in the pipeline that we are closely working on with the Czech side,” Algabre said.

Currently, the Czech Republic has an annual quota of accepting 5,000 overseas Filipino overseas workers (OFW), which it is set to increase to 10,000 by May.

Algabre said the European country is opening its doors to more OFWs due to its booming tourism sector.

Expanded defense agreement

DEFENSE matters and preserving rules-based order, Algabre said, will also be discussed by the President while he is in Germany and the Czech Republic.

“For Germany, we already have a defense cooperation agreement. It is primarily...it was signed in 1974 if I may but it focused initially on training of our armed forces. So now, we would like to convey our interest to expand the cooperation,” Algabre said.

“With the Czech Republic, we are also exploring/discussing with them on how we can also expand cooperation in areas including defense,” she added.

Both countries, Algabre said, have expressed their support for the Philippines amid its ongoing maritime territorial dispute with China in the West Philippine Sea.

Investment deals

MARCOS will also be attending business forums in both countries, where partnership agreements will be signed, and meet with major companies to discuss investment opportunities.

“There are [scheduled] meetings with the companies that are interested in renewable energy, in manufacturing, healthcare, aerospace and innovation,” Algabre said.

The President will also meet with members of the Filipino communities in Germany and the Czech Republic to keep them abreast of the developments in the country.

Germany hosts 36,000 Filipinos, while the Filipino community in the Czech Republic comprises around 7,000 members.

Samuel P. Medenilla

Restos not affected by new rules on Service Charge law

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo Special to the Businessmirror

MANY local restaurants are chill about the expanded coverage rules on the Service Charge law, as they mostly have regular employees, not contractuals. However, a few of them may also stop collecting service charge (SC) and instead give their employees a share of the restaurant sales, like a commission. Chef Robby Goco, who pioneered Greek cuisine through Cyma restaurants, told the B USINESS M IRROR , “The reason we have service charge is that most employees are paid minimum wage. A share of the service charge gives them a higher take-home pay.” He added though, “Many restaurants, like ours, actually have regular employees. We don’t hire through agencies. And we’ve always given our employees a share of the service charge.”

The same is true with the The Moment Group, which operates popular restaurants, such as Manam, Din Tai Fung, 8 Cuts Burgers, Ooma, among others. In a Viber message, the Group’s co-founder and managing partner Eliza Antonino said, “[The new SC rules] won’t affect us. We don’t have contractual or agency-hired employees in any of our restaurants. We have always distributed the service charge [with our employees] as the law tells us to.”

Sales commission, instead FOR his part, Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou (Azadore, Pandan Asian Café) said, “For small businesses like ours we rarely have agencyhired workers and few casual staff, so we manage to include them in the distribution of the SC. However, for large-scale operators, it’s a different story.” Many hotels, for instance, also operate their own restaurants staffed by agency-hired kitchen staff and chefs.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on February 19 began implementing Department Order 242-2024, which instructs hotel, restaurants, and similar establishments to include casual, contractual, and agency-hired employees in the distribution of the service charge.

Many

by 30-40 percent, with more non-regular employees getting a share from the pooled SC. (See, “Service charge must not be used as ‘reward’ to keep good hotel staff—DOLE,” in the BusinessMirror, March 5, 2024.)

Despite being unaffected by the new DOLE order, Goco said his restaurants will do away with the service charge and just give their employees a “sales commission,” or a portion of the restaurant’s sales. To do this, they will have to increase the prices of their dishes by 10 percent, “and we will make sure what our employees were receiving as shares of the SC before, will be the same under the sales commission scheme.”

Over 272K work in restos, food kiosks

BASED on their internal computations, “If we increase our prices by 10 percent, then take out the SC, then allot 8.5 percent as sales commission and 1 percent service retention [for breakages, theft, etc.], our value-added tax output will increase by 10 percent, but our income tax will decrease. Dine-in guests will just pay 2-percent more on their total bill. Employees will still take home the same pay,” Goco explained.

But with the new scheme, their restaurants’ expenses will also increase by 10 percent

PSA: Over 1-M women left workforce in January as holiday spending

OVER a million women left the workforce in January as opportunities linked to holiday spending dwindled, according to the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The PSA reported that there were 2.15 million Filipinos who were considered unemployed in January 2024. There was a 228,000 decline in the ranks of jobless Pinoys in January.

However, PSA data also showed persons in the Labor Force contracted 1.64 million to 48.09 million in January 2024 compared to 49.73 million in January 2023. There was an even larger decline of 1.8 million compared to October 2023’s 49.89 million.

“Ang nakikita na rason, ang nagbigay ng rason dito ay yun nga yung household duties. Mga 1 million yun. Plus schooling, mga 500,000. So, bulk of this, sinasabi nila

household duties and schooling, mga 1.5 million na kaagad dun sa 1.8 million,” National Statistician Claire Dennis S. Mapa said.

Disaggregated by sex, majority of those who dropped out of the labor force were women at 1.56 million, Mapa said. Male workers who left the labor force only reached 875,000.

The labor force participation of women only reached 49.3 percent, not even half the women aged 15 to 64 years who could work. Most of these women who dropped out of the labor force were also young or in their prime.

Nearly half a million women or 470,000 were between the ages of 15 and 24 years old, while another 393,000 women aged 25 to 34 years old left the workforce.

“Yung actual economic opportunity ang magti-trigger noon (increase or decrease in

wanes

women’s participation). So, nakikita natin yun na pag medyo maganda yung economic activities, ay dumadami yung ating kababaihan na nagpaparticipate sa labor force. Ganoon din sa kalalakihan. But ano yun, mas nakikita natin yung increase doon sa kababaihan,” Mapa explained.

Meanwhile, the PSA reported that in terms of average daily basic pay, women were paid more than men, based on the January Labor Force Survey results. Data obtained from the PSA showed the average daily basic pay of women reached P610, while men only received P582 in January 2024.

However, this does not mean women workers were better paid in general. The PSA said the average daily basic pay of women in the Armed Forces pulled up the average pay of women.

Based on the latest data from PSA, workers in the Armed Forces were among the top five major occupations that received the highest average daily basic pay.

The average daily basic pay of workers in the Armed Forces reached P1,088 in January 2024, making workers in this occupation the third highest paid nationwide.

The top occupations who received the largest average wages were managers with P1,221 followed by professionals, P1,115.

PSA said technicians and associate professionals followed after the military with an average daily basic pay of P780 followed by clerical support workers, P710 per day.

Occupations with the lowest average daily basic pay were elementary occupations with P402; skilled agricultural, forestry and fishery workers, P417; and service and sales workers, P508 in January 2024.

Other occupations with low pay are craft and related trade workers who received an average daily basic pay of P533 and plant and machine operators and assemblers, P556 in January 2024. Cai U. Ordinario

Make sure every woman feels safe to speak up, PBBM says

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said empowering women in the marginalized sector is the next step in the government’s efforts to promote women’s rights and achieve inclusivity.

In his message for the National Women’s Month, the Chief Executive admitted that the “path” for empowering women in the marginalized sector remains “uncharted.”

“Knowing this, it is imperative that

conscious efforts are consistently being taken to ensure that every Filipina has equal opportunities and is actively engaged in nation-building,” Marcos said.

“I enjoin every Filipino to embrace their civic and moral obligation to make sure that every Juana’ feels free and safe to use her voice with courage and compassion,”he added. He also stressed the importance of safeguarding the gains the country had

‘Gibo’ says CADC to protect entire PHL, along with EEZ

THE Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), which is now being undertaken by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), aims to protect the country’s entire territory along with its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“In plain language, we are developing our capability to protect and secure our entire territory and EEZ in order to ensure that our people and all the generations of Filipinos to come

shall freely reap and enjoy the bounties of the natural resources that are rightfully ours within our domain,” Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” C. Teodoro Jr. said in a statement Friday. He added that the CADC is a “strategic action” and will not need constant directives to carry out.

The DND chief earlier introduced the CADC during a January forum with foreign

‘Develop PHL’s natgas industry to drive investments, enhance energy security’

THE Senate Committee on Energy Technical Working Group (TWG) said that developing the country’s natural gas industry is critical to driving investments that will enhance national energy security, reduce electricity costs and create more jobs for Filipinos.

During the TWG meeting on Senate Bill No. 2247, Atty. Gareth Tungol, special legal counsel of Senator Raffy Tulfo, said that developing the country’s natural gas industry will open up a larger market share for investors as government policy shifts towards clean energy.

Senate Bill No. 2247 authored by Tulfo seeks to promote the development of a comprehensive, and integrated legislative policy that aids in the rapid development of the Philippines’ natural gas sector.

The urgency of the bill’s passage arises from the critical need to extend the life of Malampaya gas, which provides about 40 percent of the country’s natural energy needs since 2001.

The TWG also noted that the bill added “priority” dispatch for indigenous natural gas to encourage more investments in the development of indigenous gas resources.

“Pagdating sa mga gagamit ng fuel for gas-fired power plants, mauuna yung gas ko kapag galing dito yung gas ko, di ba?...We are not prioritizing blindly; we are prioritizing Filipino gas first. ‘ Yun ang

policy naming because naniniwala kami na dapat hindi ang first step ay importation,” Tungol, who presided over the TWG meeting on behalf of Tulfo.

“I think yun ‘yung best driver ng investment natin dahil instead na mag-invest sila sa importation, mag-invest sila sa facilities, sa mga infrastructure. So may trabaho plus may foreign investment,” he added.

The Department of Energy (DOE) was present during the TWG meeting and has expressed its support for the development of the country’s natural gas industry, which also aims to promote growth in the power generation industry.

Tungol also said that using coal is “a lot more ecologically damaging” and more expensive than natural gas.

“When you fire up a coal power plant, hindi yan parang light switch no, it takes a while to ramp up, to heat up, to generate energy. It also takes a while to adjust that energy, so pag nag-iba yung energy demand, minsan naiiwan yung production ng coal, nagkaka-brown out tayo. Ang natural gas, kasi yung planta niyan, mabilis ang transition, so mabilis tayong makaagap, kung kulang yung kuryente sa isang lugar, as long as the grid is connected, pwede ka magbato agad ng excess kuryente dun sa kabila,” he added.

The TWG has yet to release the exact amount of reduction of prices once the law

made in women empowerment by combating past gender biases, prejudices and discrimination.

“Throughout history, we were blessed with an impressive list of remarkable advocates who marched and fought, and sacrificed to uphold women’s rights and foster a culture of respect that transcends gender differences,” Marcos said.

Last year, the country improved its ranking

journalists.

“I, thus, urge our commanders and units in the AFP to exert all efforts to operationalize the CADC,” Teodoro said. Earlier, the DND upheld its mandate to secure the sovereignty of the state and integrity of the national territory as enshrined in the Philippine Constitution. “As such, we are pursuing a CADC to address our vulnerabilities and enhance our capability to defend our national interest through certain long term plans, which include upgrades in our facilities and deployment of personnel,” it added.

Rex Anthony Naval

takes effect because pricing will depend on the market. However, Tungol assured that “the end goal of all our energy bills is to drive down the [energy] prices.”

“Ang masasabi lang namin, hindi siya kasing volatile as coal. Hindi siya pumuputok, hindi rin siya nagdi-dip ng sobrang baba, magmi-middling siya towards lower energy costs talaga,” Tungol said.

Aside from energy security, the TWG chair noted that the development of the natural gas industry in the country has a “trickle-down effect” through generation of jobs.

“Kapag nag-invest yung malaking corporation, they will need people to work for them, Filipinos ‘ yan most likely ang magtatrabaho para sa kanila. It’s not only income generating for the investors, but it’s also job generating for our country,” Tungol said.

“Marami tayong skilled engineers dito sa Philippines, marami tayong OFWs [overseas Filipino workers] na nagtatrabaho sa LNG plants sa ibang bansa, so we have the capacity as a Filipino people to actually support the industry pero wala lang tayong industry dito. So yun yung ginagawa namin...bigyan mo sila ng opportunity to invest, mayroon tayong opportunity to work,” he added.

in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Gender Gap Index report (GGGR), which covered 146 countries.

From being 19th place in the index in 2022, the country advanced to its 16th place last year.

The GGGR is based on the following factors: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and educational empowerment.

Samuel P. Medenilla

Iran to release 17 Filipino seafarers

By Malou Talosig-Bartolome

IRAN has decided to release the remaining 17 Filipino crew of oil tanker M/T St. Nikolas, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced.

DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo de Vega said the Filipinos were freed after the owners of the oil tanker assured Tehran that they will be replaced by seafarers from other countries.

“The contracts of our seafarers have also expired,” De Vega said.

A total of 18 Filipino seafarers and one Greek cadet were on board the M/T St. Nikolas when Iran’s Navy seized their ship while transiting the Gulf of Oman last January 11. Iran said the seizure was in retaliation for the US confiscation of 980,000 barrels of crude oil last year.

In 2023, the US seized the ship (erstwhile named Suez Rajan) for allegedly bringing Iran’s oil, a violation of the oil embargo sanction by the US against Iran.

The Greek cadet was initially released and last month, a Filipino seafarer had requested to be repatriated immediately.

Iran did not charge the Filipino crew for alleged piracy, but set a condition that they can be released if they have replacement to maintain the ship anchored off Bandar Abbas in southern Iran.

The first batch who were released consists of 11 seafarers.

Nine of them will arrive on Sunday, while the two others will fly to Manila next week.

Xi urges coordination of military and economic strategy devt at sea

CHINESE President Xi Jinping called on the military to dovetail its maritime strategy with economic development, comments that came in a meeting with defense lawmakers at the country’s annual legislative session.

The armed forces “should coordinate the preparation for maritime military conflicts, the protection of maritime rights and interests, and the development of the maritime economy,” Xi said at the meeting on Thursday, according to a report by state broadcaster China Central Television.

Xi’s comments came as tensions have flared in the South

China Sea. Coast guard vessels from China and the Philippines collided this week during the Southeast Asian nation’s resupply mission. The two countries have been locked in a territorial dispute in the waters, with Beijing claiming nearly all of the resource-rich sea, including areas that Manila says are pa rt of its exclusive economic zone.

“The phrase ‘development of the maritime economy’ appears to be Beijing’s implicit acknowledgment that one of its primary motives there is guided by the desire to monopolize the energy reserves and other marine resources in those waters,” said James Char, a research fellow at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated at a Thursday news conference that the nation has always maintained a high degree of restraint, warning other countries against taking sides in the South China Sea.

In his meeting with military lawmakers, Xi also urged the army to push forward the building of the aerospace sector, improve its ability to safeguard cybersecurity, and step up coordination and implementation of major smarttechnology projects.

Gunmen abduct 287 students in latest school attack in Nigeria’s northwest

ABUJA, Nigeria—Gunmen attacked a school in Nigeria’s northwest region Thursday and abducted at least 287 students, the headteacher told authorities, marking the second mass abduction in the West African nation in less than a week.

Abductions of students from schools in northern Nigeria are common and have become a source of concern since 2014 when Islamic extremists kidnapped over 200 schoolgirls in Borno state’s Chibok village.

In recent years, the abductions have been concentrated in northwestern and central regions, where dozens of armed groups

often target villagers and travelers for huge ransoms. Locals told The Associated Press the assailants on Thursday surrounded the governmentowned school in Kaduna State’s Kuriga town just as the pupils and students were about to start the school day at around 8 a.m.

Authorities had said earlier that more than 100 students were taken hostage in the attack. Sani Abdullahi, the headteacher, however, told Kaduna Gov. Uba Sani when he visited the town that the total number of those missing after a headcount was 287.

“We will ensure that every child will come back. We are working

with the security agencies,” the governor told villagers in the area located 55 miles (89 kilometers) from the capital.

No group claimed responsibility for Thursday’s attack though blame fell on armed groups that mostly constitute herders who have been accused of carrying out violent attacks and kidnappings for ransom following decades-long pastoral conflict with host communities.

Security forces arrived with the governor several hours later as a search operation widened, while community members and parents gathered to wait for news.

The attack occurred days after more than 200 people, mostly

Xi called for innovation and reforms to the defense tech industry to unleash “new quality fighting forces.” That appeared to allude to “new productive forces,” a term he recently started using to encourage “high technology, high efficiency and high quality” as economic drivers.

Lawmakers at the meeting discussed issues from “the application of artificial intelligence to the development and utilization of unmanned combat capabilities,” the official Xinhua News Agency reported.

The US has campaigned to curb China’s access to highend semiconductor technology, partly due to concerns advances in artificial intelligence could have military uses. Wang criticized that effort by Washington in his briefing, saying it was intended to suppress his nation.

Bloomberg News

women and children, were abducted by extremists in northeastern Nigeria.

Women, children and students are often targeted in the mass abductions in the conflict-hit northern region and many victims are released only after paying huge ransoms.

Observers say both attacks are a reminder of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis, which resulted in the deaths of several hundred people in 2023, according to an AP analysis.

Bola Tinubu was elected president of Nigeria last year after promising to end the violence. But there has been “no tangible improvement in security situation yet” under Tinubu, said Oluwole Ojewale, West and Central Africa researcher with the Africa-focused Institute for Security Studies. AP

6 dead after mass stabbing at Ottawa home, teen student who lived with family arrested

TORONTO—A 19-year-old student from Sri Lanka is accused of stabbing and killing six people he lived with, including a 2 1/2-month-old baby girl and three other kids from a Sri Lankan family, Ottawa police said Thursday.

Ottawa police chief Eric Stubbs said an “edged weapon” or “knife-like object” was used by the suspect, who was identified as Febrio De-Zoysa. He has been charged with

six counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder. Mass killings are rare in Canada.

Stubbs said the deceased are Sri Lankan nationals who recently came to Canada. He said they include a 35-year-old mother, a 7-year-old son, a 4-year-old daughter, a 2-year-old daughter and the 2 1/2-month-old baby girl as well as a 40-year-old acquaintance of the family.

The police chief said when the first officers arrived at the home the family’s father was outside and screaming for someone to call 911. Police received two emergency calls at 10:52 p.m. Wednesday.

The father is in hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening, injuries.

“This was a senseless act of violence perpetrated on purely innocent people,” Stubbs said.

Sri Lanka’s high commission said that it is in touch with relatives in the country’s capital, Colombo.

De-Zoysa made a brief appearance in court Thursday and mumbled his assent as the justice of the peace ordered him not to speak to the father who survived the attack or to four other witnesses who provided statements to the police. His case was adjourned until March 13 to give him time to find a lawyer. Police were called to the home in the Barrhaven area just before 11 p.m. Wednesday night. The suspect was arrested quickly after that, and police said there was no continuing threat to public safety.

Don Perera, a neighbor, said he met the family that lived in the home last fall at a Halloween party at the nearby Catholic elementary school. He said the father was from Sri Lanka.

Shanti Ramesh, who lives across the street, was alerted to a commotion late Wednesday. From her balcony, she saw a man sitting on the driveway of the home and yelling before two police officers arrived and carried him away.

On Thursday morning, five marked police cars were parked on the street and in driveways near the home, which is a middle unit of a row of brick townhouses.

Several people in white jumpsuits were going in and out of the home throughout the early morning, while parents and kids walked and biked by on their way to a nearby elementary school.

“Our first reactions are all ones of shock and horror at this terrible violence,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said.

Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe called the news distressing for all the city’s residents. “It’s hard to believe,” he said. “It’s devastating and heartbreaking.”

WASHINGTON—A bill that could lead to the popular video-sharing app TikTok being unavailable in the United States is quickly gaining traction in the House as lawmakers voice concerns about the potential for the platform to surveil and manipulate Americans.

The measure gained the support of House Speaker Mike Johnson and could soon come up for a full vote in the House. The bill advanced out of committee Thursday in a unanimous bipartisan vote—50-0.

The White House has provided technical support in the drafting of the bill, though White House press secretary Karine JeanPierre said the TikTok legislation “still needs some work” to get to a place where President Joe Biden would endorse it.

The bill takes a two-pronged approach. First, it requires ByteDance Ltd., which is based in Beijing, to divest TikTok and other applications it controls within 180 days of enactment of the bill or those applications will be prohibited in the United States. Second, it creates a narrow process to let the Executive branch prohibit access to an app owned by a foreign adversary if it poses a threat to national security.

“It’s an important, bipartisan measure to take on China, our largest geopolitical foe, which is actively undermining our economy and security,” Johnson said Thursday. Some lawmakers and critics of TikTok have argued the Chinese government could force the company to share data on American users. TikTok says it has never done that and wouldn’t do so if asked.

The US government also hasn’t provided evidence of that happening.

Critics also claim the app could be used to spread misinformation beneficial to Beijing.

President Donald Trump attempted to ban TikTok through an executive order, but the courts blocked the action after TikTok sued, arguing such actions would violate free speech and due process rights.

TikTok raised similar concerns about the legislation gaining momentum in the House.

“This bill is an outright ban of TikTok, no matter how much the authors try to disguise it. This legislation will trample the First Amendment rights of 170 million Americans and deprive 5 million small businesses of a platform they rely on to grow and create jobs,” the company said in a prepared statement.

The bill’s author, Rep. Mike Gallagher, the Republican chairman of a special House committee focused on China, rejected TikTok’s assertion of a ban. Rather, he said it’s an effort to force a change in TikTok’s ownership. He also took issue with TikTok urging some users to call their representatives and urge them to vote no on the bill.

The notification urged TikTok users to “speak up now—before your government strips 170 million Americans of their Constitutional right to free expression.”

The notification also warned that the “ban” of TikTok would damage millions of businesses and destroy the lives of countless creators around the country.

TikTok users responded by flooding the offices of lawmakers with telephone calls. Some offices even shut off their phones because of the onslaught. A congressional aide not authorized to speak on the matter publicly said that lawmakers on the committee voting on the bill Thursday as well as others were inundated with calls.

“Today, it’s about our bill and it’s about intimidating members considering that bill, but tomorrow it could be misinformation or lies about an election, about a war, about any number of things,” Gallagher said.

“This is why we can’t take a chance on having a dominant news platform in America controlled or owned by a company that is behold to the Chinese Communist Party, our foremost adversary.”