BusinessMirror March 28-29, 2024

THE national government’s recent bond issuances contributed to the net liability position of the country’s net international investment position (IIP), according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Preliminary data showed the country’s net liability position of $51.3 billion as of end-December 2023, higher by 8.1 percent than the $47.5 billion recorded in end-September 2023.

BSP said total outstanding external fi nancial liabilities reached $292.8 billion, while total outstanding external fi nancial assets amounted to $241.4 billion.

“ is development was driven by the 4.9-percent expansion in the country’s external fi nancial liabilities, outpacing the 4.3-percent growth in external fi nancial assets,” BSP said.

BSP said the country’s total stock of external fi nancial liabilities as of end of the fourth quarter of 2023 rose, as all components registered an increase, except for fi nancial derivatives. e data showed that other investments in the form of foreign loans increased by 7.9 percent, from $72.5 billion to $67.2 billion.

BSP explained that the national government had issued Sukuk Bonds amounting to $1 billion in December 2023.

“Foreign portfolio

THE Philippine economy is seen to grow at 5.9 percent for 2024 despite growing the fastest in the Asean region by 5.6 percent in 2023, according to international credit watcher S&P Global Ratings which kept its real GDP forecast unchanged.

In a webinar on Wednesday, S&P Asia Pacific economist Vince Conti said Philippine growth will be a “tad under” this year at about 5.9 percent then at 6.2 percent for 2025.

“Our outlook is for the Philippines to do relatively well compared to the region, but kind of a little bit under where growth has been in the recent few years, especially outside of the Covid years,” Conti said. ere are two main headwinds that will keep the growth rate “relatively low,” Conti said: last year’s high infl ation and

TIEMOP for the fi nal evaluation and eventual approval of the proposed software for running the co-optimized market.

B S P. M @sam_medenilla

WITH the support of India and other countries, President Ferdinand R.

Marcos Jr. is more confident in upholding international rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

e chief executive made the remark during the courtesy call of Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Malacañang on Tuesday.

“We have many shared interests, primarily of, that is to maintain the peace in our areas and so this is a concern now, not only of India or of the Philippines alone, but the entire world,” Marcos said.

Jaishankar stressed the importance for India to support the Philippines in maintaining peace and order in the Indo-Pacific region. He said India continues to recognize the 2016 ruling of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos), which invalidated China’s claim in the WPS. Non-traditional partner MARCOS said New Delhi’s commitment to back the country in its territorial position against the claims of Beijing in the WPS is a significant development especially since the Philippines and India are “non-traditional partners on maritime issues.”

IIP net liability position traced to bond issuances

“

Hot money inflows rebound in Feb, up 137.6% to $613M

THE country’s portfolio investments more than doubled as hot money inflows rebounded in February, according to the latest data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

e data from the BSP showed foreign investments registered with the BSP, through authorized agent banks, yielded net inflows of $613 million as of February 2024. is represented a growth of 137.6 percent from the $258 million net outflows in the period of January to February last year.

assets of residents of an economy that are claims on non-residents or are gold bullion held as reserve assets, and the liabilities of

“ ese investments refer to the following inward foreign investments registered with authorized agent banks [such as] PSE-listed securities; Peso-denominated government securities; Peso time deposits with banks with minimum tenor of 90 days; other Peso debt instruments; unit investment trust funds; and other instruments such as Exchange Traded Funds and Philippine Depositary Receipts,” BSP said. In February 2024 alone, BSP data showed hot money net in-

MARKET SETTLEMENT

e Department of Energy (DOE) issued last January an advisory mandating the full implementation and commercial operation of the reserve market starting January 26, 2024. Subsequently, on February 13, the ERC directed PEMC and IEMOP to submit additional compliances, including the results of the software audit for the system for billing and settlement and the systems for the management of the reserve market.

IEMOP recently reported significant price increases in reserve costs for March compared to February. is significant price increase will have an impact on the total price of electricity that will be charged to the public.

Considering that PEMC and IEMOP have yet to comply with the ERC’s directives on the submission of the results of the software audit, the commission raised concerns on the reasonableness of such cost increases as well as on the mechanics of co-optimization in light of existing policies and regulations.

e ERC also noted the observation of IEMOP on the high volumes of ancillary services (AS) purchased from the market by

the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), as system operator, despite its contracted reserve volumes.

In view of this, the ERC directed the PEMC and IEMOP to suspend the implementation of Section 8, pertaining to the billing and settlement of the PDM. “ e Commission is constrained to direct this suspension at this time. We were initially encouraged by the fact that the reserve market was able to unveil reserve capacities that, for one reason or another, did not contract with or participate in the AS CSP conducted by NGCP. is meant the capacities are there to cover the system’s reserve requirements. However, we cannot ignore the fact that there are issues arising from the implementation of the system as currently designed that puts to question the resulting rates,” said ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta.

e ERC is also directing PEMC and IEMOP to submit the audit results of the software so the agency can identify and address issues and immediately resume normal operations of the market.

Dimalanta said the submission of the audit results should not be later than April 15, 2024 so her office could swiftly act on it.

(BSP) target range and they expect it to continue this year. is, Conti said, gives the country’s central bank “some leeway” to consider cutting rates as S&P expects the BSP to cut rates cumulatively by 75 basis points by the end of the year. e BSP’s infl ation target range has been retained at 3.9 percent for 2024 to 2028 set by the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC).

e credit rating agency also expects the Philippines’ policy rate at 5.75 percent by the yearend of 2024 from last year’s 6.50 percent.

“We would expect some Asia-Pacific central banks to start cutting rates in a few months even if the US Fed delays its fi rst cut further,” it said.

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto, who is also a member of the Monetary Board, said the BSP could cut interest rates by 50 basis points this year.

“Possibly, 50 basis points. Maybe two [cuts]. I’m not making a decision. ere’s a board. I’m just expecting,” Recto said.

e BSP’s Monetary Board kept its benchmark interest rates at a 16-year high of 6.5 percent during its fi rst ratesetting meeting in February.

PBBM hails India’s pitch of rules-based WPS regime

national shipping operations.

“It really is at a crisis point of shipping. And maybe we can fi nd something that we can do together to ease the situation at least a little bit until it becomes—the confl ict becomes less heated,” Marcos said.

During their meeting, both leaders also discussed trade, tourism, food security, development, healthcare and fi nancial technology collaboration.

India is the country’s 15th largest trading partner with bilateral trade between the two countries exceeding US$3 billion in 2023. After the Philippines, Jaishankar will also visit Singapore and Malaysia as part of India’s efforts to strengthen its ties with Southeast Asia.

are causing a crisis in inter-

More Pinoys traveling abroad for the Lenten break

By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo @akosistellaBM Special to the BusinessMirror

Many Filipinos are flying abroad for the Holy Week break because it’s less expensive, according to a leading organization of tour operators.

a rjun Shroff, president of the Philippine Tour Operators a ssociation (Philtoa) told the BusinessMirror , “There are more bookings for travels abroad rather than domestic destinations. In some a sean countries, a complete package costs just P18,000 to P20,000 per person, inclusive of air tickets, hotel for three days/two nights, inclusive of meals.” a sean, or the a ssociation of Southeast a sian nations, includes Brunei, Burma, c ambodia, Indonesia, l aos, Malaysia, Singapore. Thailand, and Vietnam, aside from the Philippines. a side from a sean, Filipinos are also traveling to South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, mainland c hina,

and Macau this Holy Week, he said. a number of clients are going for long-haul trips as well, for instance to Europe including Eastern Europe, Turkey, and the Holy l and. Despite the ongoing Israel war on g aza, he noted there are still Filipinos traveling to the Holy l and. “Regardless [of the war], tourists are still going there; they are diverted to Tel aviv and are avoiding border arrivals,” said Shroff. a t the start of the outbreak, following the attack of Hamas militants on some Israel kibbutzes, the Department of Foreign a ffairs advised tour organizers and Filipino travelers to postpone their trips to the Holy l and due to the volatile situation.

Hot local destinations

T HOSE holidaying in domestic destinations for the l enten break from March 28 (Maundy Thursday) to 31 (Easter Sunday), they

have chosen to head to c ebu, Bohol, l egaspi, c lark, Subic, Baguio, Iloilo, Siquijor, Siargao, Dumaguete, c amiguin and c agayan de Oro. “They are traveling for leisure, or as families, or for corporate [incentive tours],” said Shroff.

The Manila International a irport a uthority has projected some one million passengers traveling through the ninoy a quino International a irport’s four terminals from March 24 (Palm Sunday) to 31. The projected figure is 15 percent higher than last year’s Holy Week period, and 88.5 percent of the 1.13 million passengers in a similar period in pre-pandemic 2019. (See, “Semana Santa travel tips: Book with DOT-accredited hotels, be at Naia early,” in the BusinessMirror, March 25, 2024.)

Staycations are up

nOn ITO a ntonio cuizon, Marketing Director of Robinsons Hotels & Resorts, “We’re offering special l enten room rates and packages for this season of reflection. With the faith tourism offered in naga, our g o Hotels Plus and Summit Hotels naga have registered high occupancies this week. Other destination properties such as g o Hotels Plus Tuguegarao and g o Hotels Puerto Princesa are still showing growth in occupancy as tourists flock for a respite during the long weekend.”

He added, “Our city hotels nationwide are still open to accommodate those who would want to celebrate without the hassle of travel. Our Summit Hotels in g reenhills, c ebu, n aga and Tagaytay, and g rand Summit Hotel

Meanwhile, many hospitality chains are reporting almost full capacity for the Holy Week, usually considered a peak season for travel in the country.

New Delhi invites Marcos to visit India in July–PCO

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

Malacañang on Wednesday confirmed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has been invited by Indian Prime Minister narendra Modi to travel to India.

Presidential c ommunication Office (P c O) Secretary c heloy V. g arafil made the announcement when asked if Marcos is already scheduled for a state visit to India. This after India External a ffairs Minister Subrahmanyam

Gordon:

DJaishankar told Marcos during their meeting last Tuesday in Malacañang that Prime Minister Modi looks forward to welcoming the Philippine chief executive in India.

Jaishankar urged Marcos to schedule the trip during the 75th anniversary of the PhilippinesIndia diplomatic relations in July.

India is currently eyeing to strengthen its ties with members of the a ssociation of the Southeast a sian nations ( a SE an ), including Philippines.

If the President accepts the

invitation from India, it will be included in the long list of countries visited by the President this year, which now includes Brunei, Vietnam, a ustralia, g ermany and c zech Republic.

The President is scheduled for his four visits to the United States in a pril to attend the PhilippinesUS-Japan trilateral meeting in Washington D.c

Manila and n ew Delhi are negotiating a bilateral preferential trade agreement and are planning to upgrade the a sean-India Trade in g oods a greement.

Philippine exports to India have reached $1 billion for the first time. Indian exports to the Philippines have reached $2 billion.

“While this is undoubtedly a good progress, current data indicates that we still have over half a billion dollars of unrealized export potential to India,” said Foreign a ffairs Secretary Enrique Manalo.

“India, as the 5th largest economy, currently growing at about 7 percent annually, is preparing to step up its engagement with the Philippines,” Jaishankar said.

PHL Red Cross biggest contributor for Odette recovery

“I’m

ako dahil lahat kayo ay narito, may bago kayongtahanan with solar panels para hindi na kayo magbayad ng kuryentenamaymagandang view pangdagat,athigitsalahat,kinaya natin ang pasubok ng Odette. Buhay na buhay ang turismo rito sa alegria because you have a great Hon. Mayor Dr. g ilberto Magallon na kaibigan natin.

ConTriBUTeD PHoTo

Sa katunayan, ang Philippine Red c ross ang may pinakamalaking naitulong sa buong Pilipinas noong nanalasa ang Bagyong Odette. anim na raang milyong piso (P600 million) ang perang inilabas ng PRc para sa ating mga kababayan sa buong bansa, P110 million sa c ebu at umabot na sa isang bilyong piso [P1 billion] ang kabuuang tulong ng PRc sa probinsyang ito kaugnay ng iba’t ibang kalamidad (TY Odette, Ursula, and naga c ity landslide) at c ovid-19 pandemic,” said g ordon. Odette was the strongest typhoon that struck the Philippines in 2021 where more than half of c ebu’s population of 5 million were affected by the disaster according to the Department of

Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The Bureau of Fire Protection stated that in the province’s capital, c ebu c ity, the total damages brought by TY Odette to infrastructure, utilities, and agriculture in c ebu c ity has reached P1.7 billion.

in g eneral Santos c ity have Easter celebrations guests can enjoy.” For his part, Discovery World c orp. president Jose Parreño Jr. said, “Yes, the resorts are full: Boracay, c oron, Samal, and Manami [Sipalay, n egros Occidental].” He noted their city hotels such as Discovery Suites Manila and Discovery Primea are running high in terms of bookings as well this Holy Week, but Parreño said those making last-minute vacation plans “can still try to book because it’s a four-day holiday.”

Seda Hotels of the a yala g roup said, “We are pleased with the consistent patronage of both foreign and local tourists in our hotels and resorts. Our hottest properties in the group for this holiday break are Seda Resort l io [in El n ido], as well as popular staycation hotels like Seda Manila Bay and Seda n uvali.”

Elections in 2025 a significant milestone in BARMM–Hataman

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

Asenior lawmaker said on Wednesday that the 2025 elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous r egion in Muslim Mindanao (BA r MM) will represent the success of democracy and the benefits of peace in the region.

“The upcoming elections next year embody the essence of peace and democracy we fought for in Bangsamoro, as citizens now have the freedom to choose their leaders in the region,” said House Deputy Minority Leader and Basilan r ep. Mujiv Hataman on the 10th Anniversary of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that paved the way for the establishment of the BA r MM.

The true test of peace in BA r MM, Hataman stressed, is the exercise of the people’s democratic right to choose their own leaders.

“Let us work together for genuine peace in the Bangsamoro, which will be realized if democracy is vibrant and the freedom of the people to choose their leaders becomes a reality,” Hataman, former governor of the now-defunct Autonomous r egion in Muslim Mindanao, said in his message for the 10th anniversary of the CAB.

reminded of the significant strides BA r MM has made in the pursuit of lasting peace and development in Mindanao.

“This milestone in the peace process marks a pivotal moment in our history, one that has brought hope and optimism to the people of Bangsamoro,” he said.

“As a former governor of A r MM, i had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how the peace process evolved and flourished under the Aquino administration, culminating in its finalization during the Duterte administration,” he added.

Hataman said the establishment of BA r MM is a testament to the unwavering commitment of both the government and the M i LF to find a peaceful resolution to the decades-long conflict in the region.

“Peace is integral to the progress and development of BA r MM, and the CAB has provided the framework upon which we can build a more inclusive and prosperous society for all,” Hataman said.

“ t is crucial that we continue to uphold the principles and provisions outlined in the agreement, ensuring that the gains we have achieved are sustained and further strengthened in the years to come,” he added. He then thanked the o ffice of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, r econciliation, and Unity for its efforts in facilitating the peace process and ensuring the successful implementation of the CAB.

The 71 houses at the Red c ross Village at Barangay Poblacion a legria, c ebu that cost about P32 million have solar panels made possible through the collaborative efforts of the PR c , International Federation of Red c ross and Red c rescent Societies, and the local government of a legria, c ebu.

For the past five years, the leaders of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) that make up the Bangsamoro Parliament have all been appointed by the President. An election was supposed to be conducted in 2022, but Congress extended the life of the BTA for another three years.

Hataman said that since the signing of the CAB on March 27, 2014, he has been

The Full Shelter a ssistance project focuses not only in the Queen c ity of the South but also in Bohol—provinces severely affected by TY Odette. l ast May 2023, the PRc already turned over 70 full shelters in Talibon, Bohol.

BOC seizes shabu disguised as whey protein in Pasay City

By Reine Juvierre Alberto

THE Bureau of c ustoms (BO c ) said on Wednesday that it seized about P20 million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride, also known as shabu, disguised as whey protein.

In a statement, the BO c said the Bureau of c ustoms- ninoy a quino International a irport (BO c- naia) seized the 3,028 grams or 3 kilograms of shabu with an estimated street value of P20.59 million at the c enter Mail Exchange c enter (c ME c ) in Pasay c ity.

“As we celebrate this milestone, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a brighter future for the Bangsamoro people. Let us continue to work together, hand in hand, towards the realization of our shared vision of peace, prosperity, and unity in the region.”

Govt indicts alleged nPA members for financing terrorism

TThe shipment was physically examined by BO c- na I a on Monday, March 25, and was surrendered to the Philippine Drug Enforcement a gency (PDE a ), it added.

BO c said the claimant of the illegal drug shipment, Mohammad Bagatao, also known as Joseph a cogido, was promptly arrested. a corresponding criminal case will be filed against Bagatao for the violation of the c omprehensive Dangerous Drugs a ct of 2002.

The bureau said the illegal drug was labeled as whey protein, a nutrition supplement for building muscle mass, and was found inside transparent plastic vacuum pouches and self-sealing white pouches.

He will also face charges in violation of Section 118 (Prohibited Importation and Exportation) and Section 1400 (Misdeclaration) in goods declaration in relation to Section 1113 (Property Subject to Seizure and Forfeiture) of the customs Modernization and Tariff a ct (c MTa ).

Just this month, the BO c intercepted dried marijuana or kush originally declared as consolidated balikbayan boxes sent from Thailand.

The different boxes of dried marijuana that arrived in the Philippines cost an estimated P396 million and weighed more than 340 kilos.

l ast month, the BO c reported that it raked in a total of P70.601 billion, higher than its P66.207 billion target for February and generated a surplus of 6.64 percent or P4.393 billion.

“The seizure is part of an ongoing operation to further fortify the country’s borders against the entry of illegal drugs,” said na I a District collector Yasmin O. Mapa. c ustoms c ommissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio said that the Bureau will not tolerate such tactics, and ordered a nationwide intensified vigilance against substances disguised as health supplements.

By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

H e Department of Justice has recommended the filing of financing terrorism charges against two alleged members of the Communist Party of the Philippines- n ew People’s Army (CPP- n PA). i n a statement, the D o J identified the accused as Leonor Taguinod Dumlao and Valentin Cruz Tolentino, who are believed to be members of the n ational Finance Commission ( n FC) of the CPP- n PA. As members of the CPP- n PA- n FC, the D oJ said the two had direct involvement in demanding money from construction firms, telecommunication companies, bus companies, mining companies and businessmen in guised as “revolutionary taxes.”

They will be charged with violation of s ection 8 of r epublic Act ( r A) 10168, known as “The Terrorism Financing Prevention and s uppression Act of 2012” (TFP s A) before the r egional Trial Court of Batangas City.

“We will never let even an inch of terrorism’s tyranny sow fear among our

citizens, much more let the cowards behind this menace run free. This is a time when we Filipinos should fortify our resolve and show our resilience in fighting this evil,” Justice s ecretary Jesus Crispin r emulla said. i f proven guilty, we will not let them go unpunished,” r emulla added.

Prior to the filing of the complaint, the Philippine n ational Police-Criminal i nvestigation and Detection Group (P n PC i DG) received reports stating that the two accused possessed firearms and ammunition with no definite source of income or apparent purpose.

Authorities conducted background checks and collaborated with intelligence counterparts from the n ational Bureau of i nvestigation and i ntelligence s ervice of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to ask the court’s issuance of search warrants against the two individuals.

Consequently, authorities discovered firearms, ammunition, improvised explosive devices ( ie Ds), ie D components, and a significant sum of money in various denominations.

Thursday-Friday, March 28-29, 2024

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

THE National Irrigation Administration (NIA) on Tuesday said four new high dams are set to be built until 2028 to help secure the country’s water needs and address flood control needs.

NIA Administrator Eddie G. Guillen said the dams will be built in the the Tumauini River, Panay River Basin, Ilocos Sur and

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced on Wednesday the addition of 10,000 units for Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS), while hinting the possibility of “new ride hailing apps.”

LTFRB Chairman Teofilo E. Guadiz III said he hopes Filipinos “will see that opening up an additional 10,000 slots or new ridehailing apps will provide our people with the opportunity to earn additional income.”

Currently, there are a few ride hailing apps for four-wheel services: Grab; JoyRide; inDrive; and, AngCars. The latter has yet to be launched. Guadiz said it is important for the regulatory body to “diversify” transport options

in Mindanao in line with the instruction of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. “Because as he said, if you have a high dam, you have irrigation, flood control, power generation, domestic water and aquaculture. So what more can you ask for? You will get many returns if it is a high dam! So this is the focus of the President,” Guillen said. Based on NIA standards, he said high dams have a height of 100 meters.

Economy

Guillen noted that at least 20 high and medium-sized dams are expected to be completed by 2028. Ten of these will start construction this year.

Among those pending for completion are dams that have been subjected to a catch-up plan through their design and build manual. These dams, the NIA official said, are scheduled to be finished this year.

“Our design and build manual shortened the implementation of

for the Filipino riding public. “It wouldn’t hurt to give our commuters more options to choose from, where they feel more comfortable or where it’s more accessible,” he said in the vernacular.

Guadiz said the TNVS expansion would not encroach upon the markets targeted by traditional modes of transportation.

“We don’t see this affecting jeepney and tricycle drivers because the market for those who ride jeepneys, tricycles, taxis, and TNVS are different.”

Guadiz highlighted the unique role of TNVS, particularly in areas where other modes of transportation may be limited.

“Please understand the limitation of

the dam from conception to actual construction by three years,” Guillen said.

Among the possible sites for the said dams in the Visayas, NIA is building the Jalaur Dam and other projects in the Panay River Basin, in addition to smaller or mediumsized dams.

Aside from building new dams, he said the government is also targeting to rehabilitate major dams such as Magat and Pantabangan, which has existed for half a century.

tricycles: [hey] can only go within the subdivision. If you want to get out of your barangay, the tricycle won’t be able to do that. That’s where motorcycle taxis or TNVS come in.”

The addition of more TNVS slots is anticipated to contribute to a more efficient, convenient, and sustainable transportation system, ultimately benefiting the public by enhancing mobility.

Guadiz said that the increased availability of drivers would reduce waiting times for passengers and enhance overall accessibility, particularly in areas with high demand.

Moreover, he said that the expansion of TNVS slots would foster healthy competi -

‘State-built factory to meet textile-export demand’

GARMENT industry players are urging the government to build wearabletextile factories to keep up with export orders particularly from the European Union (EU), according to the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (Philexport).

Philexport Trustee Robert Young said a single factory is all that’s needed.

“Just one will be enough, we have to quickly start something so that these foreign investors will follow suit,” Young, also president of Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines (FOBAP), was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Philexport last Wednesday. “Garments, once it’s there, can be a lifesaver to any economy just like in Bangladesh and Vietnam, India, Laos [and] Cambodia.”

The trustee for Philexport’s textile, yarn and fabric sector said they have been requesting the government to build a pilot commercial-scale wearable textile factory. The request comes as the Philippine garments exported to the 27-member bloc

EU are slapped with a 12 percent or higher duty due to its “strict” rules of origin (ROO). The rules impose a ceiling for value-added inputs sourced from a non-Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) beneficiary country.

This, even as these goods enter into the EU market duty-free under its GSP Plus, Young said. “They [EU] prefer that the fabric we will be using will be sourced from the Philippines. So this is one way of saying the Philippines has to produce its own fabric,” he explained. “Which as everybody knows is not possible because we do not have the textile industry in the Philippines right now to be used for these products for exports and therefore, we have to import.”

Young added that the Philippines would not qualify for the EU GSP+ zero duty “if it’s imported fabric that we use.”

With this, the Philexport said building a pilot factory to produce the country’s own fabric or textile is “imperative,” especially

the benefits they will get under the regular social security program.

“Save your money with us through the WISP Plus and we will take care of it. When you reach the age of 60, you can get it back together with its investment earnings,” Macasaet said.

with the revival of talks for the Philippines’s bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) with the EU. The latter Young expects to “also prescribe the same ROO on textile usage for exported garments.”

Young said the industry players are expected to hit just 80 percent of their target garment and apparel exports of at least $1 billion this year with EU’s enforcement of these ROOs.

“We underperform now. How will we perform [if] you are not allowing us to use imported materials? There is another way to use the imported material but we have to buy from an FTA country, which has a bilateral agreement with the Philippines,” he said. “We have to look for these kinds of countries.”

Young said the EU currently accounts for only 10 percent of the country’s total export receipts of garments, textile and apparel.

The US is the main export destination, followed by Australia, Canada and Japan.

generate investment earnings, which will be credited to their individual accounts, tax-free.”

Young

the

Washington prohibits the importation of goods into its country that are manufactured with forced labor in China, especially from its Xinjiang region.

“The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, also known as the UFLPA, directs the Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force to develop a strategy for supporting enforcement of the prohibition on the importation of goods into the United States manufactured wholly or in part with forced labor in the People’s Republic of China, especially from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, or Xinjiang,” the US Customs and Border Protection website noted. Andrea San Juan

amount considering that if he put that in a bank savings account, he would only earn a little more than 1 percent or only P100. He said that members can check the status of their VRSP under WISP Plus online by logging in to their My.SSS account.

Editor:

Increase in real estate prices slowed as loans grew steadily

THE increase in real estate prices recorded a 6-month low in the fourth quarter of 2023, according to the Residential Real Estate Price Index (RREPI) released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The latest data showed real estate prices slowed to 6.5 percent in the fourth quarter of 2023. This is the same rate in the third quarter of 2023 and was the lowest since the 2.6 percent posted in the second quarter of 2023.

BSP also said the growth in real estate prices was slower than the 12.9 percent posted in the third quarter of 2023.

The data also showed on a quarter-onquarter (QoQ) basis, the index contracted by 3.6 percent, which is a reversal of the 3.4-percent growth registered in the third quarter of 2023.

Real estate prices in Metro Manila grew 4.3 percent in the last quarter of 2023 as higher prices of single-detached/attached houses and townhouses outweighed the decline in the prices of condominium units.

The data showed residential property prices in Areas Outside the NCR (AONCR) grew by 7.8 percent, driven by annual increases in the prices of all types of housing units, except for duplex housing units where growth contracted.

Given the increase in real estate prices, the BSP said the number of residential real estate loans (RRELs) granted for all types of new housing units in the Philippines grew by 30.5 percent year-on-year.

Data by the central bank also showed nationwide housing loan availments continued to grow by 26.9 percent on a quarter-onquarter basis.

RRELs in NCR or Metro Manila surged 38.5 percent while the same posted a growth of 26.6 percent in AONCR.

The BSP said the total number of RRELs granted in the Philippines rose by 25.2 percent. The pace of growth was almost the same in NCR at 25.8 percent and AONCR at 25 percent.

The total number of transactions grew by 14.4 percent on a quarterly basis due to the 10.5 percent and 16.2 percent increase in

the number of RRELs in the NCR and AONCR, respectively.

“(Majority or) 84.5 percent of residential real estate loan (RRELs) transactions were used to purchase new housing units,” the BSP said.

Most of the RRELs granted in the NCR were for the purchase of condominium units, while RRELs granted in AONCR were for the purchase of single-detached/attached houses.

On a regional basis, Calabarzon topped the number of RRELs granted at 33.1 percent followed by Central Luzon at 12 percent and Western Visayas at 5.8 percent.

The data also showed these were followed by Central Visayas at 5.3 percent; Davao Region, 5.2 percent; and Northern Mindanao Region, 1.9 percent.

“The said regions, including the NCR, comprised 94 percent of the total housing loans granted by banks,” BSP said.

Meanwhile, the appraised value of new housing units in the country in the fourth quarter last year averaged to P89,042 per square meter (sqm).

This represented a 19.1-percent growth over the comparable year-ago level as opposed to the 3.4 percent contraction from the quarter-ago level.

Further, the average appraised value per sqm in the NCR increased by 5.5 percent year on year but declined by 14.3 percent quarter on quarter to P134,178 per sqm.

Meanwhile, in AONCR, the average appraised value per sqm expanded by 31.8 percent year on year and 18.1 percent quarter on quarter to P65,186.

“It may be noted that the average appraised value of properties in the NCR is double that of AONCR,” BSP said.

The RREPI is a measure of the average change in the prices of various types of housing units, i.e., single-detached/attached houses, duplex housing units, townhouses, and condominium units, based on banks’ data on actual mortgage loans granted to acquire new housing units (excluding pre-owned or foreclosed properties). Cai U. Ordinario

Seaoil opens Zamboanga’s biggest depot

SEAOIL Philippines Inc. announced that its Zamboanga Bulk Terminal is now open. The facility is ready to better serve the fuel requirements of Seaoil customers in Zamboanga del Sur, the Filipino-owned fuel company said through a statement issued last Tuesday.

The firm said the depot “provides various opportunities for the local communities surrounding it.”

“Like in all of its depots, Seaoil will have its fuel and lubricant products more readily available to consumers, and commercial and industrial clients,” the company’s statement read. “Prior to the depot’s opening, fuel supply for Zamboanga del Sur and nearby islands was sourced from the company’s terminal in Irasan.”

better revenues and raise the collection of regional districts in Zamboanga City,” the company said.

The terminal is located on the property of the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority and Freeport. With the new terminal, Seaoil aims to reach its captive market in the Zamboanga region and serve more consumers and commercial industries including those in Tawi-Tawi, Jolo, and Sulu.

The

The official explained that the program was an affordable and flexible savings scheme as SSS members could contribute P500 (around SGD11.96 at current exchange rates) whenever they want. “Members can contribute for as low as P500 per payment whenever they want for this additional layer of social security protection,” he noted. “The members’ pooled contributions under WISP Plus will

“The program is off to a good start with an estimated 6.86 percent return on investment (ROI) in 2023. It outperformed the average 1-year Treasury bill rate, which stood at 6.01 percent in 2023,” he added. “It is an indication that members’ savings invested in the program will generate decent earnings, which will be added to their total contributions resulting to higher benefits when they retire.”

Macasaet said that for example, if a WISP Plus contributor invested P10,000 at the start of the year, he would have already earned P690, which was a reasonable

In 2023, Macasaet said the total member savings collection from the VPFP reached P386 million from more than 30,000 SSS members in its first year of its implementation.

The 2022 Survey on Overseas Filipinos of the Philippine Statistics Authority shows that five percent of the total 1.96 million OFWs in 2022 or around 98,000 Filipinos work in Singapore. They are mostly domestic helpers, nursing aides, nurses, teachers or IT specialists, according to an article by the National Anti-Poverty Commission.

With the economic boost to the community, Seaoil also eyes starting more corporate social responsibility projects in the area, according to the company. These include “potentially providing partners with free on-the-job training on tanker safety and marine environmental protection.”

Alongside the opening of the depot, more benefits will be available for consumers. PriceLOCQ, Seaoil’s mobility and fuel savings application, will be accepted in more stations in Zamboanga City, according to the company. The company’s loyalty rewards program will also be honored in these stations, it added.

“As a top taxpayer in the areas where its depots are present, Seaoil looks to bring

“As we continue to expand our retail and depot footprint across the country, we strive to make sure that we reach customers in as many areas as possible. Our locations are strategic in the sense that consumers and businesses can easily avail of our products and services, and experience the Alagang Seaoil that we are proud of,” Chief Operations Officer Stephen Yu was quoted in the statement as saying. The new terminal storage and berthing facility is a notable investment for Seaoil costing P822 million, with a maximum storage capacity of 30.5 million liters of fuel—the biggest in Zamboanga del Sur. It is strategically located along with three other terminals in the Mindanao region–Santa Cruz,

Thursday-Friday, March 28-29, 2024 A9

NBI nabs 8 ‘DBM’ poseurs in extortion try on supplier

By Reine Juvierre Alberto

THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) apprehended eight individuals pretending to be officials or connected to the DBM.

The DBM said on Wednesday the NBI arrested the individuals in an entrapment operation conducted in a restaurant in Mandaluyong City on March 26 after they accepted marked money worth half a million pesos from the NBI.

One of the suspects initially introduced herself as an Undersecretary of the DBM to the complainant, saying that she could assist in releasing funds for government projects, based on the initial report by the NBI.

The same suspect also claimed that she is in charge of the Depart-

ment’s special projects, the NBI added.

The complainant, a project contractor, was promised by the suspect access to P1.3 billion worth of government projects if they agreed to a deal, the details of the complaint said.

The project was related to the construction of a dam, which the DBM was supposedly funding, it added.

Before the project would be awarded to the complainant, the suspects asked to provide “grease money” first for the project’s “blueprint” to initiate the processing of documents for the project award.

The contractor conducted an initial verification with the DBM and discovered that there was no official by that name in the agency, the complaint stated. The mentioned project did not also exist in the agency’s records.

As a result, the DBM said it

collaborated with the NBI to carry out the entrapment.

Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said they strictly condemn these acts.

“We hope that with this successful entrapment, we are able to send a strong statement to the public that the DBM will never tolerate fraudulent activities like this. Seryoso po ang DBM sa paglaban sa katiwalian gaya po ng ganitong mga gawain. [The DBM is serious in fighting corruption similar to actions like this],” Pangandaman was quoted in the statement as saying.

The Budget chief urged the public to report to them promptly if they encounter individuals pretending to work for the government to solicit money.

The DBM said that according to the latest NBI report, two of the suspects expressed their willingness to be witnesses against the other suspects.

Comelec: Safeguards against foreign interference in ’25 polls are in place

THE Commission on Elections on Wednesday said measures are already in place to protect its Automated Election System (AES) against “foreign interference” in the 2025 polls.

Comelec Chairman George M. Garcia made the assurance after the National Security Council (NSC) called on the poll body to prepare against possible overseas cyber attacks, which can affect the outcome of the 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE).

“That is what we are doing. The reason why the preparation [for the 2025 NLE] is early. Procurement is timely. This ensures that the system is tested and all security measures are put in place,” the poll chief told reporters in a statement.

He noted they already included safeguards in the service contract for the hardware, software and transmission system they will use in the next polls.

This is on top of the readiness of Comelec’s information technology (IT) personnel in combating such attacks, with their past experiences.

In 2016, the Comelec website was hacked, prompting the poll body to strengthen its cyber security.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex C. Laudiangco said among their security features is that their Automated Counting Machines and servers will only be connected to the telecommunications firms after the Close Voting and Printing of the 1st 8 Election Returns, to ensure

the “digital results cannot be altered in any way.”

He noted the transmitted results, which will be posted in their election results website, can also be verified using the printed Election Returns.

“Also, the ACM is only enabled to transmit digital election results, and made intentionally to have NO RECEPTION capability further reducing points of vulnerability,” Laudiangco said.

The NSC issued the warning to Comelec after the United States and its allies accused China of hacking into US officials and other key democratic institutions. China denied the said allegations. Samuel P. Medenilla

Filinvest turns over first ready-built factory to EV battery manufacturer

By VG Cabuag

THE Filinvest Innovation Park in Filinvest New Clark City in Tarlac has turned over a ready-built factory to StB GIGA, the newly established Philippine entity of StBattalion Pte. Ltd.

The company said the handover signifies the commencement of StB GIGA’s move-in process, paving the way for their lithium iron phosphate battery manufacturing facility within the industrial park.

“We are very pleased to welcome StB GIGA to Filinvest Innovation Park. This partnership not only strengthens our commitment to attracting leading sustainable businesses but also generates substantial employment opportunities for the region, contributing to the overall economic growth of the Philippines,” said Francis Ceballos, FLI’s senior vice president and industrial business unit head.

Dennis Chan Ibarra, CEO of StB GIGA, said his company is “dedicated to pioneering a new era of sustainable development.”

“We are grateful for the support and collaboration extended by

Filinvest Innovation Park and its partners. With the official handover of the RBF unit, we are one step closer to realizing our vision of establishing a world-class LFP battery manufacturing facility in the Philippines. This facility will not only cater to the growing demand for electric vehicles but also contribute to a greener, digital and more sustainable future for the nation,” Ibarra said. The parent company of StB GIGA, StBattalion, is jointly owned by the St Baker Energy Innovation Fund, which is managed by StB Capital Partners.

StB Capital Partners is a leading Australian investment manager that incubates and invests in companies with disruptive solutions in the energy and e-mobility sectors. As an operator-led firm, with a long history in energy generation and distribution and advanced mobility technologies, the group leverages its breadth of experience, both technical and commercial, in fastgrowing markets to create value and generate meaningful, sustainable returns.

The said ready-built factory unit handed over to StB GIGA

encompasses 5,000 square meters of modern industrial space, designed for seamless integration and immediate operational use by businesses. These facilities, coupled with Filinvest New Clark City’s strategic location and advanced infrastructure, create an ideal environment for StB GIGA to establish a thriving electric vehicle battery production hub.

Developed on 120 hectares within the 288-hectare Filinvest New Clark City, FIP-NCC has a strategic location as it is 30 minutes away from Clark International Airport and 45 minutes away from the Subic Bay International Seaport, making it a key progress catalyst north of Metro Manila.

The company’s readybuilt factory compound will feature 10 units to be built on a 40,000-square-meter lot. Each of the 2,500-square-meter units is designed for logistics, e-commerce, and light manufacturing locators. Each unit is equipped with a twobay loading dock with dock levelers, roll-up doors, an 8-meter ceiling clearance, a floor load capacity of three tons per square meter, and a fire suppression system.

Netanyahu slams UN cease-fire resolution as war enters 6th month and US-Israel tensions escalate

By Tia Goldenberg, Jack Jeffery & Wafaa Shurafa The Associated Press

JERUSALEM—Israeli

Prime Minister

Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday blasted a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a Gaza cease-fire that his country’s top ally, the United States, chose not to block. He said the resolution had emboldened Hamas and he vowed to press ahead with the war.

As the war grinds through a sixth month, both Israel and Hamas have rejected cease-fire efforts, each insisting its version of victory is within reach. The passage of the UN resolution has also escalated tensions between the US and Israel over the conduct of the war.

Netanyahu has said Israel can only achieve its aims of dismantling Hamas and returning scores of hostages if it expands its ground offensive to the southern city of Rafah, where over half of Gaza’s population has sought refuge, many in crowded tent camps. The US has said a major assault on Rafah would be a mistake.

cease-fire on it. The Biden administration, which vetoed previous UN resolutions calling for a ceasefire, abstained in Monday’s vote, allowing it to pass.

In response, Netanyahu cancelled a planned visit by Israeli officials to Washington during which the US side was set to propose alternatives to a ground assault in Rafah.

The move raised criticism in Israeli media that Netanyahu was straining Israel’s most important alliance in order to placate hardliners in his governing coalition.

the hostages. Only a decisive victory will bring to an end of this war.”

Hamas’ top political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, said the UN resolution showed that Israel faces “an unprecedented (level of) political isolation” and was “losing its political cover” at the Security Council. He spoke at a news conference in Tehran after talks with officials in Iran, a key ally of Hamas.

Netanyahu said in a statement that the announcement “proved clearly that Hamas is not interested in continuing negotiations toward a deal and served as unfortunate testimony to the damage of the Security Council decision.”

“Israel will not surrender to Hamas’ delusional demands and will continue to act to achieve all the goals of the war: releasing all the hostages, destroying Hamas’ military and governing capabilities and ensuring that Gaza will never again be a threat to Israel.”

Israel has killed over 32,000 Palestinians, around two-thirds of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants in its tally. The fighting has left much of the Gaza Strip in ruins, displaced most its residents and

Hamas says it will hold onto the hostages until Israel agrees to a more permanent cease-fire, withdraws its forces from Gaza and releases hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants. It said late Monday that it rejected a recent proposal that fell short of those demands—which, if fulfilled, would allow it to claim an extremely costly victory.

‘Heroes’ scramble to halt traffic before Baltimore bridge collapse; construction crew feared dead

By Lea Skene The Associated Press

Bdirections. One said he was about to drive onto the bridge to alert a construction crew.

But it was too late. Lifeless and laden with huge containers, the vessel smashed into a support pillar.

“The whole bridge just fell down,” a frantic officer said. “Start, start whoever, everybody...the whole bridge just collapsed.”

When the shipping vessel Dali slammed into the pillar around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, it caused a long span of the bridge, a key cog in the region’s transportation infrastructure, to crumple into the Patapsco River. Six people are presumed dead, and the loss of the bridge is expected to snarl commuter traffic and disrupt a vital shipping port.

At least eight people went into the water.

Two survived but the other six, all identified as part of a construction crew that had been filling potholes on the bridge, were missing. A search for their bodies was to resume Wednesday morning.

Among the missing were people from Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico, according to diplomats from those countries. The Honduran man was identified as Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandova. Federal and state officials said the incident appeared to be an accident. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, and ship traffic entering and leaving the Port of Baltimore was suspended indefinitely.

Capt. Michael Burns Jr. of the Maritime Center for Responsible Energy said bringing a ship into or out of ports in restricted waters with limited room to maneuver is “one of the

most technically challenging and demanding things that we do.”

“So there really is few things that are scarier than a loss of power in restricted waters,” he said. And when a ship loses propulsion and steering, “then it’s really at the mercy of the wind and the current.”

Video showed the ship moving at what Gov. Wes Moore said was about 9 mph (15 kph) toward the 1.6-mile (2.6-kilometer) bridge. There still was traffic moving across the span, and some vehicles appeared to escape with only seconds to spare. The collision caused the span to break and fall into the water within seconds, and jagged remnants could be seen jutting up from the water later in the day.

Police said there is no evidence that anyone went into the water other than the workers, though they had not discounted the possibility.

A senior executive at the company that employed the crew, Brawner Builders, said they were working in the middle of the bridge when it came down.

“This was so completely unforeseen,” said Jeffrey Pritzker, the company’s executive vice president. “We don’t know what else to say. We take such great pride in safety, and we have cones and signs and lights and barriers and flaggers.”

Jesus Campos, who has worked on the bridge for Brawner Builders and knows members of the crew, said he was told they were on a break and some were sitting in their trucks.

“I know that a month ago, I was there, and I know what it feels like when the trailers pass,” Campos said. “Imagine knowing that is falling. It is so hard. One would not know what to do.”

Father Ako Walker, a Roman Catholic priest at Sacred Heart of Jesus, said outside a vigil that he spent time with the families of the missing workers as they waited for news of their loved ones.

“You can see the pain etched on their faces,” Walker said. Rescuers pulled two people out of the

driven a third of its population of 2.3 million to the brink of famine.

The Israeli military announced Tuesday that an airstrike earlier this month killed Marwan Issa, the deputy leader of Hamas’ armed wing in Gaza who helped plan the October 7 attack. Issa is the highest-ranking Hamas leader to have been killed in Gaza since the start of the war. Military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Issa was killed when fighter jets struck an underground compound in central Gaza between March 9 and 10.

An Israeli strike late Monday on a residential building in Rafah where three displaced families were sheltering killed at least 16 people, including nine children and four women, according to hospital records and relatives of the deceased. An Associated Press reporter saw the bodies arrive at a hospital.

water. One person was treated at a hospital and discharged hours later.

The crash happened long before the busy morning commute on the bridge, which was used by 12 million vehicles last year.

From 1960 to 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses worldwide due to ship or barge collisions, according to the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Tuesday’s collapse is sure to create a logistical headache along the East Coast for months, if not longer, shutting down shipping traffic at the Port of Baltimore, a major hub.

Paul Wiedefeld, the state’s transportation secretary, said vessel traffic in and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though the facility was still open to trucks.

“Losing this bridge will devastate the entire area, as well as the entire East Coast,” state Sen. Johnny Ray Salling said.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said it was too soon to give a time frame for clearing the channel, which is about 50 feet (15 meters) deep, while President Joe Biden said he planned to travel to Baltimore soon and expects the federal government to pay the entire cost of rebuilding.

Synergy Marine Group, which manages the ship, said the impact happened while it was under the control of one or more pilots, who are local specialists who help guide vessels safely in and out of ports. Synergy said everyone on board was accounted for, with no reports of injuries.

The ship is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd., and Danish shipping giant Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

The 985-foot-long (300-meter-long) Dali was headed from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and flying under a Singapore flag, according to data from Marine Traffic.

The Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report, including Sarah Brumfield, Rebecca Santana, Jake Offenhartz, Joshua Goodman, Ben Finley, Claudia Lauer, Brian Witte, Juliet Linderman, David McHugh, John Seewer, Michael Kunzelman, Mike Catalini and Sarah Rankin.

In the face of Hamas’ demands for a more permanent cease-fire, Netanyahu has vowed to resume Israel’s offensive after any hostage release and keep fighting until the militant group is destroyed. But he has provided few details about what would follow any such victory and has largely rejected a postwar vision outlined by the US.

That approach has brought him into increasingly open conflict with President Joe Biden’s administration, which has expressed mounting concern over civilian casualties—though it has continued to supply Israel with crucial military aid and back Israel’s aim of destroying Hamas. The passage of Monday’s resolution by the UN Security Council resolution further deepened the divisions. The resolution called for the release of all hostages held in Gaza but did not condition the

“He is prepared to sacrifice Israel’s relations with the United States for a short-lived politicalmedia coup. He has completely lost it,” Ben Caspit, a prominent columnist in the Israeli newspaper Maariv, wrote.

He said Netanyahu has been trying US patience by dragging his feet on ensuring more humanitarian aid gets into Gaza and on drawing up post-war plans. “Now, instead of doing everything to placate them, he is flailing about like a baby throwing a tantrum.”

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, in Washington on a separate trip, held talks Tuesday with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and with top US defense leaders.

Ahead of the meeting, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin described civilian casualties in Gaza as “far too high” and aid deliveries as “far too low.” But he also repeated the belief that Israel has the right to defend itself and the US would always be there to help.

Gallant said he told Blinken “that Israel will not cease operating in Gaza until the return of all

The war began on October 7, when Hamas-led militants stormed across the border and attacked communities in southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250 others. It is still believed to be holding about 100 hostages and the remains of 35 others, after most of the rest were freed in November in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners.

The United States, Qatar and Egypt have spent several weeks trying to negotiate another ceasefire and hostage release, but those efforts appeared to have stalled.

Majed al-Ansari, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Qatar, which is currently hosting the talks, told reporters that the negotiations were ongoing, without providing details.

Hamas has previously proposed a phased process in which it would release all the remaining hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the opening of its borders for aid and reconstruction, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including top militants serving life sentences.

Shurafa reported from Rafah, Gaza Strip.

Indonesia’s top court begins hearing appeals of 2 losing candidates alleging election fraud

By Niniek Karmini & Fadlan Syam The Associated Press

JAKARTA, Indonesia—Indonesia’s top court began hearing appeals Wednesday against the presidential election results lodged by two losing candidates who allege widespread irregularities and fraud at the polls, demanding a revote.

The February 14 presidential election results were announced March 20. The winner, Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto, received more than 96 million votes, or 58.6 percent, according to the General Election Commission, known as KPU.

Former Jakarta Gov. Anies Baswedan, who received nearly 41 million votes, or 24.9 percent, filed a complaint with the Constitutional Court on March 21, a day after the official results announcement. Another candidate, former Central Java Gov. Ganjar Pranowo, who was backed by the governing Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle, received the smallest share of votes at 27 million, or 16.5 percent. His legal team filed a complaint to the court on March 23.

Baswedan’s lawsuit claimed that irregularities occurred before, during and after the election that resulted in Subianto’s victory, and his legal team will reveal its evidence and arguments in the court hearings.

Subianto chose as his running mate Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the son of the popular outgoing president Joko Widodo. The Constitutional Court had made an exception to the minimum age requirement of 40 for candidates. Baswedan and Pranowo both criticized 37-year-old Raka’s participation in the election.

Anwar Usman, who was the court’s chief justice when the exception was made, is Widodo’s brother-in-law. An ethics panel later forced Usman to resign for failing to recuse himself and for making last-minute changes to the candidacy requirements, but allowed him to remain on the court as

long as he does not participate in electionrelated cases.

The election complaints were heard separately Wednesday by the court, where Baswedan had the first turn in the morning and Pranowo was slated in the afternoon.

“We witness with deep concern a series of irregularities that have tarnished the integrity of our democracy,” Baswedan told the court. He specifically pointed to the court’s decision allowing Raka to run despite the previously established criteria.

He said there are also disturbing practices where regional officials are pressured or given rewards to influence the direction of political choices, as well as misuse of the state’s social assistance, which is actually intended for people’s welfare, “is instead used as a transactional tool to win one of the candidates.”

“If we do not make corrections, the practices that occurred yesterday will be considered normal and become habits, then become culture and ultimately become national character,” Baswedan said before the eight-judge panel. “The Indonesian people are waiting with full attention, and we entrust all this to the Constitutional Court who is brave and independent to

uphold justice.”

The verdict, expected on April 22, cannot be appealed. It will be decided by eight justices instead of the full nine-member court because Usman is required to recuse himself.

In the past two elections, the Constitutional Court has rejected Subianto’s bids to overturn Widodo’s victories and dismissed his claims of widespread fraud as groundless. Subianto refused to accept the results of the 2019 presidential election, which pitted him against Widodo, leading to violence that left seven dead in Jakarta.

Widodo has reached his term limit and could not run again this year. He has faced criticism for throwing his support behind Subianto, who has links to alleged human rights abuses. Indonesian presidents are expected to remain neutral in elections to replace them.

Hefty social aid from the government was disbursed in the middle of the campaign—far more than the amounts spent during the Covid-19 pandemic. Widodo distributed funds in person in a number of provinces, in a move that drew particular scrutiny.

Ukrainian navy says a third of Russian warships in the Black Sea have been destroyed or disabled

KYIV, Ukraine—Ukraine has sunk or disabled a third of all Russian warships in the Black Sea in just over two years of war, the navy spokesman said Tuesday, a heavy blow to Moscow’s military capability.

Ukraine’s Navy spokesman Dmytro Pletenchuk told The Associated Press that the latest strike on Saturday night hit the Russian amphibious landing ship Kostiantyn Olshansky that was resting in dock in Sevastopol in Russia-occupied Crimea. The ship was part of the Ukrainian navy before Russia captured it while annexing the Black Sea peninsula in 2014. Pletenchuk has previously announced that two other landing ships of the same type, Azov and Yamal, also were damaged in Saturday’s strike along with the Ivan Khurs intelligence ship. He told the AP that the weekend attack, which was launched with Ukraine-built Neptune missiles, also hit Sevastopol port facilities and an oil depot.

Lawmakers in Thailand overwhelmingly approve bill allowing same-sex marriage

BANGKOK—Lawmakers in Thailand’s lower house of Parliament overwhelmingly approved a marriage equality bill on Wednesday that would make the country the first in Southeast Asia to legalize equal rights for marriage partners of any gender.

The bill passed its final reading with the approval of 400 of the 415 members of the House of Representatives who were in attendance, with 10 voting against it, two abstaining and three not voting.

The bill amends the Civil and Commercial Code to change the words “men and women” and “husband and wife” to “individuals” and “marriage partners.” It would open up access to full legal, financial and medical rights for LGBTQ+ couples.

The bill now goes to the Senate, which rarely rejects any legislation that passes the lower house, and then to the king for royal endorsement. This would make Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to pass such a law and the third in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal.

Danuphorn Punnakanta, a spokesperson of the governing Pheu Thai party and president of a committee overseeing the marriage equality bill, said in Parliament that the amendment is for “everyone in Thailand” regardless of their gender, and would not deprive heterosexual couples of any rights.

“For this law, we would like to return rights to the (LGBTQ+ group). We are not giving them rights. These are the fundamental rights that this group of people… has lost,” he said.

Lawmakers, however, did not approve inclusion of the word “parent” in addition to “father and mother” in the law, which activists said would limit the rights of some LGBTQ+ couples to form a family and raise children.

Thailand has a reputation for acceptance and inclusivity but has struggled for decades to pass a marriage equality law.

The new government led by Pheu Thai, which took office last year, has made marriage equality one of its main goals. AP

didn’t acknowledge any damage to the fleet.

Russian authorities reported a massive Ukrainian attack on Sevastopol over the weekend but

that Russian had in the Black Sea before the war have been destroyed or disabled. At the same time, he acknowledged that just two of about a dozen of Russian missile carrying warships have been sunk and pledged that Ukraine will continue the strikes.

“Our ultimate goal is complete absence of military ships of the so-called Russian Federation in the Azov and Black Sea regions,” Pletenchuk told the AP.

Successful Ukrainian drone and missile strikes have provided a major morale boost for Kyiv at a time when its undermanned and undergunned forces are facing Russian attacks along the more than 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front line.

Challenging Russia’s naval superiority also has helped create more favorable conditions

for Ukrainian grain exports and other shipments from the country’s Black Sea ports. Moscow officials have kept mum on most of Ukrainian claims, but previous navy losses have been confirmed by Russian military bloggers and media who have harshly criticized the military brass for its slow and sloppy response to the threat.

Earlier this month, Russian media reported that the navy chief, Adm. Nikolai Yevmenov, had been fired and replaced with Adm. Alexander Moiseyev, the commander of Russia’s Northern Fleet. The Kremlin hasn’t yet announced the reshuffle, but last week Moiseyev was presented as the new acting navy chief during a ceremony at a Russian naval base. AP

New Jersey resident claims $1.12 billion Mega Millions jackpot, ending 30-draw winless streak

DES MOINES, Iowa—Someone in New Jersey overcame the odds Tuesday night and won the $1.12 billion Mega Millions jackpot, breaking a winless streak that dated to last December.

The numbers drawn were: 7, 11, 22, 29, 38 and 4. The winning ticket was sold in New Jersey, according the Mega Millions website.

Until the latest drawing, no one had matched all six numbers and won the Mega Millions jackpot since Dec. 8. That amounted to 30 straight drawings without a big winner.

It’s tough to win the Mega Millions jackpot because the odds are so long, at 1 in 302.6 million.

The prize is the 8th largest in US lottery history.

The $1.12 billion jackpot is for a winner who is paid through an annuity, with an initial payment and then 29 annual payments. Most winners choose a cash payout, which would be $537.5 million.

The next big US lottery drawing will be Wednesday night for an estimated $865 million Powerball jackpot. No one has won that prize since New Year’s Day, making for 36 drawings without a winner.

Mega Millions is played in 45 states plus Washington, D.C., and the US Virgin Islands. Powerball also is played in those states as well as Washington, D.C., the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. AP

China triumphs in WTO dispute with Australia over steel tariffs

SYDNEY—China has won a nearly three-year-long dispute with Australia at the World Trade Organization over tariffs on steel products that began during a low point of bilateral relations between the countries, and Australia’s trade minister said Wednesday his government accepted the ruling.

Beijing took its complaint to the WTO in June 2021 over Australia’s extra duties on railway wheels, wind towers and stainless steel sinks imported from China. Trade in these products was worth 62 million Australian dollars ($40.4 million) in 2022.

On Tuesday, the WTO panel adjudicating the case in Geneva, Switzerland, found that Australia’s investigating authority, the Anti-Dumping Commission, had acted inconsistently with some articles of the anti-dumping agreement.

Australia’s Trade Minister Don Farrell said in a statement Wednesday that Canberra accepted the WTO’s ruling and supported a rules-based trading system.

“Australia will engage with China and take steps to implement the panel’s findings,” Farrell said.

the tariffs cost the Australian economy 20 billion Australian dollars ($13 billion). Most of the tariffs have since been lifted as the relationship thawed, but tariffs on wine, rock lobster and some abattoirs still remain.

In April, Australia suspended a complaint to the WTO in a bid to reopen the Chinese market to Australian barley, which had been one of the products targeted by the tariffs and was widely seen as the new Australian government’s attempts to repair relations with Beijing.

Trade tariffs have been a hot topic between Beijing and Canberra in recent years after China imposed a raft of sanctions on Australian goods in 2020 during the most recent nadir in the bilateral relationship. It is estimated that

“Australia remains committed to a fully functioning WTO dispute settlement system so that the rights and obligations of all WTO members can be enforced,” he added.

The Australian government has also halted another WTO dispute against China over sanctions on Australian wine worth about 1.1 billion Australian dollars ($720 million) in exchange for a review by China to be completed by the end of March. AP

Spraying manure, farmers again rock Brussels as agriculture ministers seek crisis resolution

By Raf Casert & Mark Carlson

The Associated Press

BRUSSELS—Farmers threw beets, sprayed manure at police and set hay alight on Tuesday as hundreds of tractors again sealed off streets close to the European Union headquarters, where agriculture ministers sought to ease a crisis that has led to months of protests across the 27-member bloc.

The farmers protested what they see as excessive red tape and unfair trading practices as well as increased environmental measures and cheap imports from Ukraine. “Let us make a living from our profession,”read one billboard on

a tractor blocking a main thoroughfare littered with potatoes, eggs and manure.

As the protests turned into violence again, police used tear gas and water cannons to keep farmers and some 250 tractors at bay, even as ministers met to push through measures meant to calm the crisis. Authorities asked commuters to stay out of Brussels and work from home as much as possible.

Farmers, police and firefighters all had to nurse injuries, but none were life threatening. The government lambasted the farmers for failing to contain violent elements that threw e-bikes off a bridge and set the entry to a subway station aflame.

“The violence, arson and destruction during

the protests are unacceptable,” said Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden and insisted the guilty would be prosecuted. With protests taking place from Finland to Greece, Poland and Ireland, the farmers have already won concessions from EU and national authorities, from a loosening of controls on farms to a weakening of pesticide and environmental rules.

A major EU plan to better protect nature in the 27-nation bloc and fight climate change was indefinitely postponed Monday, underscoring how the protests have had a deep influence on politics.

“In order to have a strong Europe, there is a need for a strong agriculture. So we are here

to remind them that their farmers should be a priority,”said Belgian farmer Yolin Targé. “We have to deal with a lot of administrative tasks. We have to deal with a lot of environmental restrictions. We are in favor of doing our best for the environment, but still, agriculture should be a priority.” EU member states on Tuesday gave their provisional blessing to proposals that amount to weakening or cutting rules in areas like crop rotation, soil cover protection and tillage methods. Small farmers, representing about two-thirds of the workforce and the most active in the protest movement, will be exempt from some controls and penalties. The EU parliament is expected to decide on the proposals in late April.

Pletenchuk said that with the latest attack, a third of all warships

A SEA drone cruises on the water during a presentation by Ukraine’s Security Service in Kyiv region, Ukraine on March 5, 2024. AP/EVGENIY MALOLETKA

A12

Thursday-Friday, March 28-29, 2024

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Marcos: India rice to beef up PHL food supply

PresidenT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. welcomed the arrival of more rice imports as the country is now in the “critical” phase of El Niño.

During the courtesy call of India External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Malacañang on Tuesday, the chief executive thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for authorizing the export of 295,000 metric tons of non-basmati white rice to the Philippines.

Marcos said the additional rice supply will help ensure the country’s food supply amid the ongoing effects of El Niño, which is expected to worsen next month.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said the number of provinces affected by -

drought and dry spell in April is expected to rise to 72 by April from 54 this month, and this can affect local food production.

“The [rice from India comes at] a very crucial time since we are right now suffering the effects [of] drought,” Marcos said.

The Bureau of Plant Industry reported that rice imports from January to March rose to 886,963 metric tons (MT) from 801,732 MT in the same period last year, which helped keep rice prices stable. Of the latest rice imports, 235.5 MT came from India.

expand the country’s trade with India beyond agricultural products. India is the country’s 15th largest trading partner, with bilateral trade between the two countries exceeding $3 billion in 2023.

Hybrids

Th E Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) introduced four public hybrid varieties that are cheaper than private hybrids in a technology demonstration farm called “rice derby,” during the recent 17th National Rice Technology Forum (NRTF) in Sto. Domingo, Nueva Ecija.

Department of Agriculture (DA) said public hybrid varieties offer farmers savings of around P100 or more per kilogram compared with the higher-priced private hybrids.

Among the varieties — PSB Rc 72 h (Mestizo 1), NSIC RC 204 (Mestiso 20), NSIC RC 446 h (Mestiso 73), and NSIC RC 544 h (Mestiso 99) showcased in the derby, PhilRice said Mestiso 73 stood out for its good performance.

Based on price monitoring by the Department of Agriculture (DA), the average price of local well-milled rice and regular milled is P52.17 per kilogram (kg) and P49.66 per kg, respectively.

To keep food prices affordable, India, the world’s largest rice exporter, banned the export of nonbasmati rice in July 2023.

In October, however, India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry granted some countries an exemption from the ban. Among them are the Philippines, Nepal, Cameroon, Côte d’ Ivore, Malaysia, Seychelles, and the Republic of Guinea.

Marcos said he wants to further

Govt all set to begin construction, rehab of fisheries infra

By Reine Juvierre Alberto

Th E Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released over P6 billion to the state-run Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) to construct and rehabilitate fisheries infrastructure in the country.

Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman cleared the issuance of a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) amounting to a total of P6.037 billion to implement the fisheries infrastructure development program of the PFDA.

The DBM added that the P1.1 billion of the allocated funds, which represent the CongressIntroduced Changes in Appropriations, will be used for the construction, rehabilitation and improvement of fish ports and

other post-harvest facilities in the country.

The authorized appropriation to the PFDA serves as the National Government (NG) subsidy for fiscal year 2024, the DBM said. The budget will be released to the PFDA under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Pangandaman signed the release of the SARO for the purpose on February 28, according to the DBM.

“Enhancing and maintaining strategic and globally competitive fish ports would allow our ships and crews access to essential supplies and services, and for vessel operators to successfully bring in their catches, safeguarding the livelihood of our fishermen,” Pangandaman said in a statement.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed the

local fisheries production in 2023 stood at 4.26 million metric tons (MMT), lower than the 4.34 MMT produced in the previous year.

The PSA noted that commercial, marine municipal fisheries, and inland municipal fisheries production also declined, adding that only the aquaculture subsector reported an annual increment in production.

Meanwhile, the World Bank said the country’s fisheries sector contributes 1.3 percent to the country’s GDP and provides approximately 1.6 million jobs or around 4 percent of the labor force.

“Kapag maayos at napangangalagaan ang ating mga fish port, malaking pakinabang ito sa kabuhayan ng mga mangingisda at sa kaunlaran ng komunidad [When our country’s fish ports are prop -

erly maintained, this will greatly benefit the livelihood of our fisherfolk and in the community development],” Pangandaman added.

The PFDA is a governmentowned and -controlled corporation attached to the Department of Agriculture (DA) and was created to promote the development of the fishing industry through the provision of post-harvest infrastructure facilities and essential services that improve efficiency in the handling and distribution of fish and fishery products.

The PFDA sustains the operation of the nine Regional Fish Ports particularly in Navotas, Iloilo, Zamboanga, Camaligan, Lucena, Sual, Davao, General Santos, and Bulan Fish Port. It also jointly manages the Tacloban Fish Port with the municipality of Leyte.

Law reviving salt industry to strengthen PHL food security—group

Th E signing into law of a measure that aims to revitalize the salt industry will bolster the efforts of the country to achieve food security, according to nonprofit organization Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives Inc. (Coop Chamber).

The group said salt is an important ingredient in food and is essential to certain industries.

Coop Chamber also said that it shares the views of the Salt Industry Networks which declared that salt self-sufficiency will contribute to the agro-industrial development of the Philippines.

“Salt is, therefore, a national food security issue—and without salt, we believe that the Philippines is vulnerable to a food supply chain crisis,” it said in a statement.

The Philippine Salt Industry Development Act was signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. last March 11, a move that is aligned with the administration’s food security agenda.

“It should be noted that the Philippine salt industry was in a dire situation because despite the country being archipelagic, it relies upon its salt through importation coming from China and Australia,” the group said.

Citing data from the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute the group noted that the production of salt in the Philippines is only 114,623.29 metric tons, which represents less than 20 percent of the country’s annual salt requirement.

As part of efforts to revive the salt industry, the law mandated the creation of the Philippine Salt Industry Development Council to be headed by the Department of Agriculture and co-chaired by the Department of Trade and Industry and representatives from the cooperatives in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The council will formulate the Philippine Salt Industry Devel -

opment Roadmap containing the short-term, medium-term, and long-term development plans, including specific and priority programs and projects.

“The role of cooperatives in the council is very much welcome as well, as we all know that cooperatives have a lot of experience on the ground in promoting programs and projects in partnership with the government to alleviate the poor and create livelihood activities for the upliftment of the lives of its members and the communities where they operate,” said the group’s chairman Noel Raboy.

Apart from the creation of the council, Republic Act (RA) 11985 also stipulated the imposition of a 9-percent tariff on imported salt. Prior to the new law, the government slaps a tariff of 1 percent on table salt.

The new ad valorem rate will be applied on all imported salt, including table salt, denatured salt,

pure sodium chloride, whether or not aqueous solution of containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agent, as well as sea water.

After 90 days from the implementation of RA 11985, the collected salt tariff will be credited to the Salt Industry Development and Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (Sidcef) to be created in the special accounts of the National Treasury.

The law mandates the Agriculture Secretary and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Director to manage Sidcef. Its beneficiaries include salt cooperatives/associations of subsistence and small farmers and fishers.

The fund will exist for 10 years and will be used to provide the machinery and equipment for salt production, establish a salt farm warehouse, provide extension services and develop modern salt production and processing technology in line with the roadmap.

“Farmers are always searching for ways to reduce rice production costs. This forum promotes affordable, accessible governmentfunded hybrid varieties available for use,” said Science Research Specialist Jerry D. Batcagan.

Priced at P212 per kilogram (kg), the agency attached to the

Maturing in 113 days, it exhibits moderate resistance to blast, sheath blight, and green leafhopper, hitting an average yield of 6.6 tons per hectare (t/ ha) and a maximum yield reaching 11.6t/ha.

Miniature displays of PhilRicedeveloped direct-seeding machines were also displayed while IEC materials and planting guides for Mestizo 1 and Mestiso 20 were distributed to the more than 500 participants. Samuel P. Medenilla

Displaced Atis in Boracay to get

land from DAR

By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) will allocate government-owned land (GOL) to 44 Ati individuals from Boracay who were displaced when a collective Certificate of Land Ownership Award (CLOA) issued by the previous administration was canceled.

The allocation of land was ordered by Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado e strella

III. DAR Undersecretary for Legal Affairs

Napoleon U. Galit stated said e strella issued the directive immediately after the owners of the 1,282 square meter land, which the Atis, all members of the Boracay Ati Tribal Organization (BATO), had been occupying, reclaimed the property on March 26. e strella expressed serious concern over the displacement of the Ati individuals, who were among the indigenous peoples granted CLOAs during the term of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

“DAR will extend all assistance and support services to all our agrarian reform beneficiaries, but we must uphold the law,” said Galit. The 44 BATO members preferred the subdivision of the 1,282 square meter property among themselves, thus, giving them only about 30 square meters each to own.

h owever, e strella wants the affected Atis to get back to farming by giving them their own agricultural land to cultivate, according to Galit.

Records of the case indicated that Digna elizabeth Ventura, whose property covered the 1,282 sqm of land occupied by the BATO members, filed a protest on April 10, 2019, against the inclusion of her property in the CLOA granted to the BATO members in 2018.

In 2020, the DAR-Regional Office 6 archived the case after ordering Ventura to show a soil analysis test regarding the suitability of the questioned land for agricultural purposes.

In 2023, Ventura presented a certification issued by the Agricultural Land Management and e valuation Division of the Bureau of Soils under the Department of Agriculture, confirming that the subject land is “not suitable for agriculture.”

Acting on the DA findings, DARRO-6 Regional Director Sheila B. e nciso upheld the

protest filed by Ventura on March 15, 2023. enciso also directed the property claimant to file an application for CLOA cancellation before the Office of the Secretary.

Galit said that the Office of the Secretary, in a March 5, 2024 order, issued a final order of CLOA cancellation as it noted that the 44 claimants failed to show proof that would invalidate the DA certification that the questioned land is not suitable for agriculture.

“The petitioners representing BATO were unable to present any controverting evidence that would have prompted us to overrule the DARRO’s ruling. They lacked evidence to support their claim of occupancy of the area covered by the CLOA.”

Galit also said the filing of the motion for reconsideration was in default.

Farm machines

DAR also said its office in South Cotabato turned over farm machinery worth P300,000 to the Traankini Farmers Association (TKFA) in Brgy. Lamlahak, Lake Sebu.

The farm machinery includes 2 units of abaca stripping machine, 10 units of 2-in-1 e -knapsack sprayer, and 30 pieces of shovel procured under the DAR’s Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Project (CRFPSP). The project aims to enhance and sustain the agricultural productivity of agrarian reform communities as a measure to adapt to climate change resiliency.

TKFA President Allan Freyra, who received the farm machinery, accepted the challenge to maintain the project with the utmost care, as he thanked the DAR for the support.

A Certificate of Turnover and Trust Agreement was signed by the DAR and the TKFA representatives to formally convey the ownership and responsibility to the farmers’ organization, as witnessed by representatives from the local government of Lake Sebu.

DAR Assistant Regional Director Roldan A. Ali encouraged the recipients to enrich, take care of, and sustain the project so that other members and people in the community could benefit from it.

Ali also encouraged the members of the ARB organization to recruit more farmerbeneficiaries so they could also enjoy the benefits of the support services entrusted to them.

has continued to soar.

“When we’re at this price, it’s hard to tell whether these prices are justified,” said Paul Joules, an analyst at Rabobank in London.

“Whenever we have a dip in the market, it seems to shoot straight back up, which is

more to do with the commercials, they’ve been net buyers.”

Reaching the $10,000 level could spur some profit taking, as price action “has gotten very steep, and traders could be concerned that the rally has reached exhaustion,” analysts at the h ightower Report said

There’s

Light heavy suits me pretty well–Eumir

EUMIR FELIX MARCIAL is getting more comfortable as a light heavyweight and he is convinced he can deliver in the Paris Olympics.

Bronze medalist in men’s middleweight class in the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, Marcial moved up in weight after the 75-kg division was scrapped by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for Paris.

Marcial adjusted well and bagged silver in the 80-kg division at the Hangzhou Asian Games last October and four months before Paris, Marcial said he’s in a perfect spot.

“I have to gain five kilos or add more muscles heading to the Paris Games, but it’s so perfect for me because my natural weight is around 165 kgs, which is 80 kilos,” he said. “That 81 kgs is the exact weight in Paris so that’s perfect for me.”

The Paris Games are set July 26 to August 11.

Marcial’s weight in professional bouts was 160 kgs but in his homecoming fight at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium against Thailand’s Thoedsak Sinam over the weekend, he weighed 165 pounds or exactly 80 kgs.

It was a great weekend for the 28-year-old Marcial as he knocked Sinam out cold to keep his professional go undefeated in five professional fights with three knockouts.

After the Holy Week break, Marcial and his team will return to Las Vegas to resume their Olympic training camp under American trainer coach Kay Koroma.

They will focus more on improving fundamentals particularly jabs.

2025: A big event–Marcial

By Josef Ramos

FANS remain loyal to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), according to Commissioner Willie Marcial, as evidenced by the growth in television ratings and the league hopes more fans will

The pro league has 12 provincial games scheduled outside Metro Manila.

Expansion in the mix of discussions WILLIE MARCIAL, 62, said the league is also looking to expand ahead of the 50th anniversary celebration.

“We have been talking to different companies, but we have to know their financial capabilities and we have to find out if they are not competing products unless the board of governors allow it,” he said. “But let’s see.”

“The US is the best place for boxing training because everything is there,” Marcial said. “From quality and tall sparring partners to training techniques, you can find it there. So my training for the Olympics will be in the US.”

Aspiring Olympians from the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) will train in Colorado Springs in April before their training camp in Bangkok, where the final World Olympic Qualification will be held from May 23 to June 3. Marcial has yet to hook up with ABAP’s plan but there’s a possibility he will be in Colorado Springs but not in Thailand—he already qualified for Paris with his silver in Hangzhou. Koroma’s assistant DJ Zamora believes Marcial can win gold in Paris.

“I think so. Eumir has the power and he’s a good boxer so he can bring gold,” the 44-year-old Zamora said. “Just getting back in boxing, working on his jabs and refining his defense, and be more patient, I think overall he can really do it.”

“I’d love to continue working for him heading into Paris and helping him to become a complete boxer, but it’s really up to Eumir,” Zamora added. Josef Ramos

CHANDLER, Arizona—Caitlin

Clark makes pulling up from the midcourt logo look easy, routinely hitting shots most players would consider a heave.

The Iowa star’s deep range has expanded the scope of possibilities for upand-coming women’s basketball players, much the way National Basketball Association star Stephen Curry changed the men’s game more than a decade ago.

“Guys will say the game is not as fun to watch, but Caitlin Clark is fun to watch,” said Shay Ijiwoye, one of Arizona’s top high school players and a Stanford commit. “I think she’s inspiring a lot of young kids my age, older, younger, that you can have that confidence and do it just as well as any guy could.”

Clark’s ability to shoot 3-pointers from midcourt logos at arenas across the country has changed the sport and the perception of it.

“The opener [Philippine Cup] was really challenging because most teams were still resting especially those who played in the semifinals,” Marcial told BusinessMirror in a recent interview at the Big Dome’s OC lounge. “We also expect people to come during playoff games or Ginebra games.”

The opener on February 28 featured TNT against Rain or Shine, while Meralco battled Blackwater.

“It’s a very challenging task to fill the arena during regular games because of many factors like economics plus the horrible traffic in Metro Manila,” Marcial said. “There are

many challenges now like new entertainment stuff like Netflix and YouTube, among others. That’s why it’s hard.”

Last season and the past few years, Marcial said the PBA regular games averaged 4,000 to 5,000 spectators in various arenas. But during the playoffs, more than 10,000 fans went to watch the games live.

“Every time and anytime the fans are really a big factor that’s why we, the PBA, are prioritizing them because they are the ones who give life to the league,” the six-year commissioner said. “But attracting the fans to watch the games live is always a challenge for us and doable.”

Asked how the fan base of each team can be improved, particularly the non-San Miguel Corp. and Manuel V. Pangilinan (MVP) bloc, Marcial answered: “They really need to solidify and strengthen their lineups to attract more diehard fans.”

Gearing up for golden anniversary

THIS early, Willie Marcial and the

league officials are preparing for the 50th golden anniversary celebration of the PBA on April 9, 2025.

“We’ve been starting to prepare and drum up for the league’s biggest 50th birthday since last year,” he said. “We want to involve Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. I also talked to our PBALlegends and to others so that they see what’s happening and they agreed.”

“It’s going to be a big event,” he stressed.

Besides Legends like Allan Caidic, Vergel Meneses, Johnny Abarrientos and others traveling from north to south promoting the event, he also confirmed that 10 more players will added to the PBA Greatest Players.

“That’s a priority because we are on 50th anniversary. Last time, we have 40 a decade ago so we will be having our selection and nomination committees handling that,” Marcial said. “And we’re so optimistic that the 50th anniversary will be the biggest celebration.”

The last time the PBA expanded its membership was when it welcomed then Kia (Terrafirma) and Blackwater in 2014 plus the entry of NLEX after the MVP franchise bought Air21 Express.

Marcial added that the league is also working on new rules such as the head coach challenge, some changes in team fouls and transition take foul, among others.

“About new innovations let’s see in how we will improve the conference format, but for the new set of rules that’s what they are for now,” said Marcial, noting that they are hoping to attract a team abroad to increase the competition just like in 2022 when the Hong Kong Bay Area Dragons played in the Commissioner’s Cup.

Barangay Ginebra won the Commissioner’s Cup against the Bay Dragons in a Game 7 where 56,589 fans—the biggest—watched it live at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue in January last year.

Creamline leads All-Filipino table, but 5 teams pose tough challenge

CREAMLINE is in familiar territory but Choco Mucho, PLDT, Chery Tiggo, Petro Gazz and Cignal are in for a big fight as the race to the semifinals promises to be fierce and intense when the Premiere Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference (AFC) resumes on Easter Tuesday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

The contenders didn’t only reflect during the Lenten break but also strategize for the crucial phase of the single-round eliminations.

Despite a frontrunning 6-1 wonlost card, the Cool Smashers face a challenging stretch ahead—they take on the Angels on April 6, a clash with the Nxled Chameleons on April 13 and a showdown with the title contender Flying Titans on April 18.

They wrap up the preliminaries against the High Speed Hitters on April 25.

The 6-foot senior from West Des Moines became Division I’s alltime leading scorer this season—a 3-pointer clinched it—a first-team AllAmerican and has filled up the record book during one of the best careers in women’s college basketball history.

Clark’s reach has gone beyond the basketball court in the form of endorsement deals and fan interest, everyone wanting a part of the transcendent player.

Young female players want some of her game, too.

Clark’s shooting from well beyond the college 3-point line—the NBA line, for that matter—has been unlike anything seen in the women’s game before. Combined with her confidence, court vision and awareness, work ethic and team-first mentality, Clark has set a standard that’s hard for young players to miss. AP

With noticeable parity in the league, Creamline no longer holds the same intimidating aura as in its past title runs with the other five teams in contention now possessing talent and resources to compete with the seventime champions. The recent defeat to the Crossovers exposed dents in their game and signaled that any team can defeat Creamline on any given day.

Cignal nearly matched that Chery Tiggo feat Tuesday night but the HD Spikers squandered a 2-0 set lead and a 14-11 advantage in the deciding fifth set to eventually yield the match at 14-16.

Choco Mucho, meanwhile, is eager for a rematch with its sister team after falling short in the Second AFC Finals last year.

Led by the dynamic Sisi Rondina, the Flying Titans, tied with the High

love to return to the top of the table.

Speed Hitters with a 5-1 record, are again poised to contend for the championship. They have relatively easier matchups against Galeries

Tower on Tuesday, Capital1 on April 6 and Strong Group on April

13. After its April 18 face-off with Creamline, Choco Mucho closes out its elims campaign against Farm Fresh on April 23.

PLDT, meanwhile, faces Akari on April 2 and Strong Group on April 9, before taking on contenders Chery Tiggo, Cignal and Creamline on April 16, 20 and 25, respectively.

Petro Gazz, tied with Chery Tiggo at 5-2, will also run into

The recent addition of Iloilo Kisela Knights stalwart Karl Viktor Ochoa on Board Two makes for a tough 1-2 combination with Barcenilla now on Board 1.

The former Board One players included GM Oliver Barbosa, Rolando Nolte and Arden Reyes. Now, Barcenilla is on top of the order.

With holdovers Woman International Master (IM) Jodi Fronda, IM Ricky de Guzman, Reyes brothers Arden and Archie, Narciso Gumila, Arena GM Gavin Ong and Randy Segarra, it’s a retooled squad. Two additions that make the top two boards highly competitive and a chance to grab a point or two with every match.

“Banjo brings a steadying presence while Karl is a giant killer,” noted San Juan team owner Michael Angelo Chua. “Although we tempered expectations this season, we still have a good shot at competing.”

With Barcenilla in the fold, they have a vocal leader. One who not only talks, but will really prepare before matches in terms of tactics, team meetings, and the discipline to get the right amount of

tough rivals in Creamline on April 6 and against Cignal on April 16 but hopes to secure key victories over Galeries Tower on April 20, and against Nxled on April 27.

The Crossovers, riding a three-game streak, aim to continue their momentum

against the HD Spikers on April 11 before squaring off with the High Speed Hitters on April 16. They play against the Chameleons on April 20 before closing out against the Highrisers on April 25.

Cignal (4-2), on the other hand, hopes to bounce back against Farm Fresh on April 4 and gain confidence for their April 11 duel with Chery Tiggo, against Petro Gazz on April 16, and versus PLDT on April 20. They end their eliminations stint against Galeries on April 25.

SHAY IJIWOYE, one of Arizona’s top high school players and a Stanford commit, is a top Caitlin Clark fan. AP

RISA SATO and Kyle Negrito defend the net against Cignal HD’s Ces Molina during their previous match the Cool Smashers won in five tough sets, 26-28, 22-25, 25-22, 25-21, 16-14.

A duty to the public: Education as the key to reducing recidivism

IN a society that values justice and aims for the betterment of its citizens, the successful rehabilitation of prisoners should be a paramount concern. It is heartening to see initiatives such as the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology’s (BJMP) continuing education programs, which have provided over 19,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) with valuable skills and knowledge during their incarceration. This holistic approach to rehabilitation is commendable and holds the potential to significantly reduce recidivism rates among PDLs. (Read the BusinessMirror story: “BJMP drive for continuing education to reduce recidivism gets solon’s nod,” March 27, 2024).

The overcrowding of municipal, city, and district jails has been a long-standing issue in the country. Addressing this problem requires not only physical expansion but also a focus on addressing the root causes of criminal behavior. By equipping PDLs with education and vocational training opportunities, the BJMP is empowering them with the tools necessary for successful reintegration into society upon their release.

The collaboration between the BJMP and various private learning institutions, non-governmental organizations, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) is a testament to the power of partnerships in achieving meaningful change. By providing educational opportunities at different levels, from elementary to college, the BJMP is catering to the diverse needs of PDLs and fostering a sense of hope and possibility for their future.

The benefits of these initiatives extend far beyond the individual prisoners themselves. Reducing recidivism rates has a positive ripple effect on society as a whole. When PDLs are given the chance to transform their lives and become productive members of society, the burden on our overcrowded jails diminishes, and the doors of opportunity open wider for others who may have made mistakes in the past.

It is crucial to recognize that every person deserves a second chance. By investing in the rehabilitation and education of PDLs, we are not only fulfilling our duty to them but also to the public. It is in our best interest to ensure that those who have served their time are equipped with the necessary skills and support to reintegrate successfully. When we neglect the rehabilitation process, we risk perpetuating a cycle of crime and missed opportunities.

The leadership of BJMP Director Ruel S. Rivera and the commitment of individuals like Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan, who recognizes the transformative power of education, are instrumental in driving these positive changes. Their dedication to providing PDLs with opportunities for growth and self-improvement deserves our appreciation and support.

As David Lidington wisely noted, prisons may be out of sight for most, but the impact of what happens inside them reverberates throughout our communities. By prioritizing successful rehabilitation, we can create safer communities, reduce the burden on our correctional facilities, and uplift individuals who have the potential to contribute meaningfully to society.

It is our collective responsibility to support and advocate for these rehabilitation programs, ensuring that they receive the necessary resources and attention they deserve. Only through a comprehensive and compassionate approach can we break the cycle of reoffending and pave the way for a brighter future for both prisoners and society as a whole.

Let us seize this opportunity to embrace rehabilitation, empower those who seek to change, and foster a society that believes in the transformative power of second chances.

A

Tatak Pinoy:

TWhat it is and what it’s not

BETTEr DayS

hEr E is growing excitement about the implementation of republic Act 11981 or the Tatak Pinoy (TP) Act—the law that will pave the way for stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector towards the development of Philippine industries, sustainable economic growth, and greater opportunities for our people in their own country.

Under the law, the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) must be issued within 60 days from the effectivity of the law. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the law on February 26, 2024 so the Department of Trade and Industry and the TP Council should have the IRR ready by April 26, 2024. As a background, the TP Council is the policy and advisory body to the President and is composed of the Secretary of Trade and Industry as its chairperson; the Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and Secretary of Finance as its vice chairpersons; and the Secretaries of Agriculture, Budget and Management, Information and Communications Technology, Interior and Local Government, Labor and Employment, and Science and Technology; and four private sector representatives as its members.

Even before the issuance of the IRR, the agencies that are part of the TP Council are already mandat-

ed to start its call for private sector representatives while the DTI-Competitiveness and Innovation Group should be working on constituting an interim secretariat for the TP Council. One of the initial tasks of the TP Council is the issuance of a list of Philippine products and services that will be given preference and priority, pending the formulation of the TP Strategy. This TP Strategy is a multi-year, multi-stakeholder strategy, approved by the President to expand and diversify the productive capabilities of our domestic enterprises and to empower them to produce and offer increasingly diverse and sophisticated products and services.

There are some misconceptions about Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino)—what it is about and what it aims to accomplish. One of the goals of Tatak Pinoy is to help our industries become globally competitive. It is not about protecting

Monkey in the mirror

ScIENTIfIc American: “Looking in the mirror and recognizing oneself was long thought to be an ability reserved for humans. recently, however, researchers have found that other apes seem to show signs of self-awareness, including recognizing themselves in a mirror.”

“The standard measure of selfawareness is known as The Mark Test. In this experiment, researchers anesthetize an animal and attach a small red dot to the middle of its forehead. The dot will go unnoticed unless the animal can recognize itself in a mirror. When the chimps woke up and were given a mirror, they peered into the mirror while touching the red dot, indicating that they noticed the change in their appearance.”

Neuroscientists have used mirrors for many decades to measure

self-awareness in all different types of animals. The majority of the time in most species, the individual is not aware that it is looking at an image of itself and thinks that it is actually gaining new information from another animal. However, Luis Populin, a neuroscientist at the University of Wisconsin, noticed that the Southeast Asian macaques in his lab appeared to be looking in mirrors to view their genitals. Maybe we are descended from monkeys.

The Turing Test: If a machine

Tatak Pinoy is not about being hard-lined for local brands per se. It is about emphasizing our desire to upgrade our capabilities to such a level where Filipino workers are making world-class products HERE in the Philippines.

local companies from competition. Neither is it using patriotism to forgive products of poor quality or shoddy workmanship, as well as services that are sub-par of global standards. The confusion is understandable given that the term Tatak Pinoy connotes nationalism. But at its very core, Tatak Pinoy is about trying to provide whole-of-nation support to Filipino enterprises that have exhibited the potential and the commitment to become world-Class and globally recognized. It is also about trying to learn as much as we can from wherever we can, updating ourselves to the world’s most advanced technologies and imbibing the most forward of horizons in our development plans.

Tatak Pinoy is not about being hard-lined for local brands per se. It is about emphasizing our desire to upgrade our capabilities to such a level where Filipino workers are making world-class products HERE in the Philippines.

There are several ways of going about this. One avenue is through education, by ramping up investments in our education system, and pushing through with policy reforms that ensure our students get the best

can engage in a conversation with a human without being detected as a machine, it has demonstrated human intelligence. Perhaps that is why “bots” on Social Media often display more common sense than real humans.

However, for man or beast, mirrors can be tricky. Apes, exactly like humans, need to learn how to use a mirror. Babies, like animals, really enjoy looking at themselves in the mirror once they realize it is their own image.

Yet as author Linda Woolverton wrote, “Mirrors can be tricky things. Sometimes they display the truth, sometimes only a piece of it.”

American psychologist Abraham Maslow said: “I suppose it is tempting, if the only tool you have is a hammer, to treat everything as if it were a nail.” Abraham Kaplan, an American philosopher, perhaps said it better.

“I call it the Law of the Instrument, and it may be formulated as follows: Give a small boy a hammer, and he will find that everything he encounters needs pounding.”

A problem that we face is that too many of the people we turn to for

quality education. Some thought should be paid to our country emulating what others like Vietnam, Indonesia, China, and India did, when their respective governments sent so many of their scholars to pursue advanced degrees abroad.

The downside to such course of action however is time. It takes decades before interventions in education actually redound to the benefit of our economy. That is why a second, but complementary avenue, is for us to court foreign investments and companies into the Philippines now, on the assumption that there will be technology spillovers, and talent upskilling.

This jives with what President Marcos said before the executives of top German companies during his recent visit to Germany where he presented a proposed solution to the labor issues hounding the European nation. “If Germany lacks workers, why not establish factories in the Philippines? They will have many brilliant, hard-working and trustworthy Filipino workers to choose from,” the President said while adding that several German firms that are already present in the country are keen on expanding their operations.

While we upskill our people through better education, we want German companies—among whom are the world’s best engineering and technology firms—to locate here in the Philippines to give our people better opportunities to be exposed to world-class technology and pro -

See “Angara,” A15

economic analysis and even advice spend—in my opinion—too much time looking in the mirror. Economist Paul Samuelson compared these analysts, and particularly central bankers to a monkey who “discovers his reflection in the mirror and thinks that by looking at the reactions of that monkey—including its surprises—he is getting new information.”

Then the Turing Test kicks in when the ‘expert’ thinks he or she is talking to a real live person when in fact, they are talking to themselves in a “mirror.”

Here is the example I have used so many times to explain why benchmark interest rates are of less concern to the average Filipino and to consumer spending. The vast majority of adults in the US—82 percent— have at least one credit card. In the Philippines, the percentage of people aged 15 years and above with a credit card is 8.75.

While ‘Online Loans’ and ‘Payday Loans’ are becoming more prevalent, these short-term loans are at typically higher interest rates because

See “Mangun,” A15

John Mangun

Sonny M. angara

Incompetence

and inefficiency

as grounds for dismissal This ethos of suffering

WDennis Gorecho

Pinoy Marino Rights

here a penalty less punitive would suffice, whatever missteps may have been committed by the worker ought not to be visited with a consequence so severe such as dismissal from employment.

Poor or unsatisfactory performance of an employee does not necessarily mean he is guilty of gross and habitual neglect of duties, which can be a ground for dismissal.

As a general concept, poor performance is tantamount to inefficiency and incompetence in the performance of official duties. An unsatisfactory rating can be a just cause for dismissal only if it amounts to gross and habitual neglect of duties.

To ascribe gross neglect, there must be lack of or failure to exercise slight care or diligence, or the total absence of care in the performance of duties. In other words, there is gross neglect when the employee exhibits thoughtless disregard of consequences without exerting effort to avoid them.

On the other hand, habitual neglect involves repeated failure to perform duties for a certain period of time, depending upon the circumstances, and not mere failure to perform duties in a single or isolated instance.

It is settled that the employer has the burden to prove that the dismissal of a seafarer is based on a valid cause. To discharge this burden, the employer must present substantial evidence—or such amount of relevant evidence that a reasonable mind might accept as adequate to support a conclusion— that the cause of the seafarer’s dismissal was valid.

Specifically, the employer must comply with the following requisites:

(1) The dismissal must be for a just or authorized cause, and

(2) The employee to be dismissed must have been afforded due process of law.

Accordingly, the following factors should be considered in relation to incompetence:

(1) The workload of the seafarer should be consistent with the position agreed upon in the labor contract or with the workload of similar other seafarers;

(2) The reasons a seafarer is identified as incompetent should be based on his personal performance, rather than objective factors beyond his control;

(3) Methods for assessing competence must be lawful;

(4) Whether the seafarer is deemed competent or not should be measured against specific standards, and cannot be judged by qualifications or rank;

(5) When declaring a seafarer to be incompetent, corresponding evidence should be obtained in addition to legal and applicable standards.

Under the “two-notice rule,” an erring seafarer is given a written no -

Mangun . . . continued from A14

of the short approval time and that rate is not determined by the national benchmark rate but by how high the loan demand is.

If you are a traditional central bank mirror watcher—in the US —with the idea that ‘low rates are good and high rates are bad’, times are tough. Risk appetite is high. Net worth is at all-time highs, stock prices are at all-time highs, housing prices are at all-time highs, economic activity is at all-time highs, air travel is at all-time highs, and

tice of the charge against him and is afforded an opportunity to explain or defend himself. Should sanctions be imposed, then a written notice of penalty and the reasons for it shall be furnished the erring seafarer. It is only in the exceptional case of clear and existing danger to the safety of the crew or vessel that the required notices are dispensed with; but just the same, a complete report should be sent to the manning agency, supported by substantial evidence of the findings (Skippers Pacific, Inc. vs. Mira 440 Phil. 906 (2002).

When a seafarer commits such violations, he may be penalized by the master of the vessel with dismissal and be made to pay the cost of repatriation and his replacement.

Additionally, an administrative complaint or disciplinary action against the seafarer may be filed before the POEA, who, after due investigation, may impose penalties ranging from suspension to delisting, depending on the frequency of the violation(s).

In the case of INC Shipmanagement Inc. v. Camporedondo (GR 199931, September 7, 2015), the Supreme Court noted that the dismissal report against the seafarer did not describe the specific acts that would establish his alleged poor performance, or his want of even slight care in the performance of his official tasks as chief cook for a certain period of time; hence, even assuming that seafarer’s performance was unsatisfactory, the company failed to show that his poor performance amounted to gross and habitual neglect of duties.

Even when an employee is found to have transgressed the employer’s rules, in the actual imposition of penalties upon the erring employee, due consideration must still be given to his length of service and the number of violations committed during his employ. Where a penalty less punitive would suffice, whatever missteps may have been committed by the worker ought not to be visited with a consequence so severe such as dismissal from employment (PLDT vs NLRC, 303 SCRA 9).

In case of an illegal dismissal, a seafarer is entitled to receive from his employers his salaries for the unexpired portion of his employment contract, not merely his salaries for three months for every year of the unexpired term.

Atty. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez.com, or call 09175025808 or 09088665786

you can now earn 5 percent on your cash bank deposit. If you are a traditional central bank mirror watcher—in the Philippines—with the idea that ‘low rates are good and high rates are bad’, you appear mainstream. Risk appetite is low even if your forecasts for the inflation rate and for GDP growth are way off. “Monkey in the Middle” is a children’s party game, also played in economic circles.

E-mail me at mangun@gmail.com. Follow me on Twitter @mangunonmarkets. PSE stock-market information and technical analysis provided by AAA Southeast Equities Inc.

Are we a suffering people?

annoTaTions

the question of suffering as ethical is most felt in this holy Week. It begins for us during Palm Sunday, when we welcome the redeemer—or that man we thought was our Savior. We replicate that event by making sure we have our own version of the palm that greeted him as he rode into Jerusalem.

This is part of the tale that is disheartening as we are told how we, the people who welcomed him on Sunday, will then see ourselves forgetting the palm of royal welcome and replacing it with the Cross of Suffering.

This is the opening discourse of the Holy Week, the legend of the ungrateful people. And we feel sad about that change of heart. This shift in our loyalty to the Redeemer is a slow burn, taking days in fact. Tuesday sees us wondering who will be with us as we relive the Passion and Suffering of Christ. Wednesday arrives and then Maundy Thursday.

But what does the word “maundy” connote? Cursory research will tell us how that old English word “maundy” derived itself from the Latin “mandatum,” which means “command.”

What was this entreaty? This was the command, not request, from Christ that all his disciples should love each other. And the symbolic ritual of this is Christ washing the feet of his disciples and the sharing of the last meal, the tender communion made bitter and sweet by the fact that it was the last human act of the quotidian Christ would share with his brothers. And sisters, if we are to believe the tales of the women staying in the shadows as the men partook of that banquet.

All this would lead to Calvary, on Mount Golgotha where the death of God took place and our redemption would be validated.

We, for many reasons a significant part of it we owe to colonialism and

geopolitics, are part of this tapestry of narrative. Every Holy Week, we relive this plot and great chunks of the population are into this story. No one could ever refuse to listen to the repeated storytelling of the life and death of Christ. Much as this story begins at Christmas, when Good Friday comes, our memories neglect the recall of that most joyous season as we bask in the dark festival that ends with the tremor at three in the afternoon, Friday.

Why must God die to save us? If there is for eternity a battle between evil and good, does the annihilation of the Divine—the destruction of the Incarnate—a symbolic triumph finally and, for good, of that Good?

We know at heart the Seven Last Words.

Growing up in a house behind the old church in San Fernando in the island of Ticao, in Masbate, I was close to the drama of Salvation, which was always preceded by thunder and gore. Moving to Naga, my grandmother Emilia could not let Good Friday pass by without listening to the monumental interpretations by priests and, later by adaptations,

the laymen chosen to mouth the dying words of Christ. And when the song “Ya Murio del Redentor” (My Redeemer has died) was intoned, introduced by the distinctly funereal chords, my grandmother would begin to weep. This I would learn later: those lyrics and the melody, the heartbreaking atmosphere were bringing her back to the island of her birth, to her dear sisters who used to sing with her the lachrymose ditties. Suffering for my Grandmother Emilia was suffused with the kamingaw—the longing.

The ethos of suffering is all about that mingaw, the longing, the separation, the breach. The death of the Savior is about loneliness, not so much the theological complexity of who gets redeemed and why but the

desire to be back in a beautiful place, in the Garden once more. And because desire brings about an active force, we do not succumb merely to silent prayers. We call upon

ourselves to act on redemption as memory, as an element in the collective unconscious of a human group exposed to errors, flawed perhaps but not fatally, but ready to rise, to follow the path to what could be Paradise. This ethos of suffering has always relegated us to the passive, the morbid. But can we not acknowledge one fact: that we, in our attempt to understand a new faith, have reaffirmed the so-called positive model of suffering following J. Davies? For this author, suffering can have positive effects. It is not a retreat but a coping, a confronting, even an act of acceptance. There is a lesson in the small book written by Diego Yuuki, SJ, titled The Twenty-Six Martyrs of Nagasaki. In that account, the martyrs are described as arriving at the hill of their own crucifixion, where they “hastened happily to the instruments of their death and of their victory.”

Here are more details:

“As soon as the last martyr arrived...the executioners began their task of attaching the bodies to the crosses. They did not use nails, but fastened iron clamps around the neck, hands, and feet. A cord tied around the waist helped to keep the body steady. In this way, the victim remained tightly fastened to his cross. But an iron clamp was not enough for Fray Pedro Bautista; pointing to the palm of his hand, he asked the executioner, “Brother, nail me here.”

In our case, we do not need a nail to fasten ourselves to the imagined crosses. There is the society, the conquest and the memories that have arisen from years of erasures and struggles, which in all cases have produced the desirable ethos, that much desired light at the end of sorrows.

E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com

Exodus from Thai stocks worsens on deepening corporate setback

Anuchit Nguyen & Eduard Gismatullin

By

AmArket revival for thailand just isn’t coming.  the nation’s first election since 2019 was supposed to be the catalyst to drive economic growth and bring back foreign investors. Instead, the benchmark stock index is set for its fifth quarterly decline, foreign funds are selling, and the baht is the second worst-performing currency in Asia.

“Thai stocks will have to wait for a clear rebound in corporate earnings to spur any big rally,” said Narongsak Plodmechai, chief executive officer of SCB Asset Management Co., which oversees about $50 billion of assets.

“It’s very unlikely to see earnings growth gaining momentum” given the sluggish economy, he said.

The slowing growth—both in the economy and corporate earnings— means Thailand is becoming the least attractive market in Southeast Asia. Analysts have cut corporate earnings estimate to a two-year low, data compiled by Bloomberg show, while a much-touted fiscal stimulus has been delayed.

Bualuang Securities Pcl, a unit of Bangkok Bank, expects the benchmark equity index to hover in the range of 1,320 to 1,450 points in the second quarter, around the current level.

Foreign funds sold a net $5.5 bil-

Angara . . . continued from A14

lion of Thai stocks in 2023, the most since 2020. While more than half of the $1.9 billion exodus this year was due to the transfer of assets controlled by the Charoen family for estate planning, the outflows were already the biggest in Asia before that, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

“Thai stocks have lost their charm for some time even with domestic investors,” said Jessada Sookdhis, chief executive officer of Finnomena Co., which manages about $1 billion of assets. “The outflows of foreign funds will further weaken the sentiment on Thai stocks because any major rally is unlikely without the buying of international investors.”

Corporate earnings dropped 11 percent last year, data from the stock exchange showed. The decline was mostly triggered by poor demand from consumers struggling with high household debt, according to Kitpon

also reflected this in the committee report of the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA) or the measure that will amend R.A. 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act that is being tackled presently in plenary at the Senate. These provisions give the government a policy instrument to use public procurement—estimated to be a significant portion of our total GDP annually—as a tool for indus-

Praipaisarnkit, a strategist at UOB

Kay Hian Securities Thailand Pcl.

The fortunes of Thai Credit Bank Pcl is telling of the broader economic malaise. The lender, which is focused on small businesses including food stall owners, has fallen 10% from its initial public offering price since its debut last month. Meanwhile, leading retailer Central Retail Corp. has slid 12 percent this year, while Bangkok Bank fell 11 percent.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been calling for a rate cut, as manufacturing production fell for a 16th month. Bank of Thailand Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput has said that was no panacea for the economy’s structural problems, and kept the policy rate unchanged in the February meeting.

Investors are siding with the BOT, with global funds selling $612.5 million worth of bonds in March, suggesting they don’t expect a reduction from the 2.5 percent rate. That’s a fourth straight month of net outflows.

“BOT has remained split on a rate cut possibility which has meant a less favorable environment for Thai bonds,” said Aditya Sharma, a strategist at Natwest Markets.

Meanwhile, analysts at Goldman Sachs Group Inc. said there is signifi-

cant scope for the baht to underperform against its peers. Thai exports have lagged competitors, as the country isn’t part of the high-tech semiconductor supply chain, they said.

The nation’s Election Commission submitted a petition in March to disband the nation’s largest opposition party for breaching a charter over efforts to amend the royal defamation law.

The case “is likely to be the most important event to monitor, as it could prompt street protests,” Nomura Holdings Inc. economists, including Charnon Boonnuch and Euben Paracuelles wrote in a note earlier this month. Move Forward Party was the most popular one based on last year’s election results, they added.

That may disrupt the economy further. The government expects annual growth of 2.2 percent to 3.2 percentthis year.

“The key reason why Thailand is underperforming versus peers ultimately is because of weak macroeconomic growth outlook in the short term,” said Tanawat Ruenbanterng, an analyst at Tisco Securities Co. “The market also is disappointed by the lack of government stimulus measures.” With assistance from Ishika Mookerjee, Hooyeon Kim, Marcus Wong and Lee Miller /Bloomberg

trial development. Once enacted, the NGPA will complement the Tatak Pinoy Act in helping local industries become the driver of growth and enhancing investor confidence in the Philippines by ensuring transparency, fairness, efficiency and predictability in the processes when dealing with the government. We have a lot to look forward to with these two laws. The dream of the Philippines joining the ranks of industrialized nations is no longer far-fetched. These are exciting times indeed.

Senator Sonny Angara has been in public service for 19 years—9 years as Representative of the Lone District of Aurora, and 10 as Senator. He has authored, co-authored, and sponsored more than 330 laws. He is currently serving his second term in the Senate.

E-mail: sensonnyangara@yahoo.com| Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @sonnyangara

Tito Genova Valiente

DEUS by Marco Marco

A16 Thursday-Friday, March 28-29, 2024

RIVALRY, SEASONALITY, SEXUAL HARASSMENT BUG TOURISM WOMEN WORKERS

frameworks.

IBy Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

NFORMAL jobs for women in the tourism sector present challenges such as stiff competition, seasonality and sexual harassment, according to a study released by the state-owned think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).

PIDS Philippine APEC Study Center Network Project Development Officer Jean Clarisse T. Carlos, Central Luzon State University-College of Home Science and Industry former Assistant Professor Marie Jel D. Bautista, and Asian Institute of Management-Andrew L. Tan Center for Tourism Research Manager Eylla Laire M. Gutierrez, found these challenges from their study of the informal tourism sector in Boracay.

The researchers said women’s contribution in the tourism sector in Boracay makes in necessary to address gaps through better data collection, gender sensitivity training, and appropriate support.

“We found that while informal workers are organized in associations, there are challenges related to seasonality and competition with formal establishments,” Guttierez said in a recent briefing. “Issues of sexual harassment are also more prevalent in certain sectors.”

Women workers were in subsectors like souvenirs, food and beverages, excursions and emerging tourism segments such as beach mat vending.

Unfortunately, the researchers said, the challenges of women in these subsectors are often overlooked due to the informal nature of their work.

The study also noted inconsistencies in government efforts across regions, making their effectiveness difficult to measure.

Some areas prioritized initiatives specifically for women workers, while others integrate gender considerations into broader

Compounding the above challenges is the difficulty in collecting and sharing data on informal tourism workers. Carlos, co-author of the study, elaborated that, “while there is available data, the sophistication of data gathering and sharing remains a challenge.”

Streamlining data collection and collaboration among different organizations, the researchers said, are essential for establishing a more comprehensive understanding of the informal tourism sector and its specific needs.

“Collaboration among different members of the tourism sector, as well as gender sensitivity training, are critical for driving the empowerment of women,”

Carlos and Gutierrez aptly concluded.

Nonetheless, positive signs of a shift toward recognizing their critical role within the industry are emerging. Department of Tourism (DOT) Western Visayas’s Karen Joy Sargado said in the forum that DOT initiatives demonstrate a growing awareness of the contributions made by this vital workforce.

“Despite regulations often favoring the formal sector, the DOT recognizes the crucial role played by informal tourism workers,” Sargado explained. “This recognition is evident in initiatives providing technical assistance, livelihood programs, and support for small businesses within this sector,” she highlighted.

The PIDS researchers also said there is a strong desire among women informal workers to be included in the formal economy for its attached benefits and security.

In order to achieve this, the study recommends education and training, capacity building, creating gender and development indicators for tourism, community organizing, and private sector involvement.

Connectivity woes still bite 30 yrs after PHL got internet access

CONNECTIVITY in the Philippines remains inadequate, 30 years since the Philippines first connected to the internet, on March 29, 1994, according to Senator Sherwin Gatchalian.

Gatchalian, presiding chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, conveyed growing public concerns that such can “potentially hamper economic development if left unaddressed.”

Citing data from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) based on the 2022 Women and ICT Development Index (WIDI) Survey and the 2019 National ICT Household Survey (NICTHS), the senators said, “there has been a significant rise in household internet access from 17.7 percent in 2019 to 76.90 percent in 2022.”

However, it was also noted that a substantial portion of the country’s population being excluded from internet-based technologies may hinder essential economic advancement, particularly in rural areas.

“Without a doubt, the internet is the most game-changing technology that continues to reshape the way we live our lives. It is unfortunate that even after 30 years of internet presence in the country, a sizable portion of our population continues to miss out on its benefits,” the lawmaker laments.

“The internet has become a necessity in the area of education, research and development, business

EU-Asean council sees 3-yr timeline for PHL-EU pact

By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan

WITH no major roadblocks seen, the free trade agreement (FTA) between the Philippines and the 27-member bloc European Union (EU) could be signed within three years, according to the EU-Asean Business Council (EU-ABC).

“So we’re probably looking at a two and a half to three-year timeline perhaps to get this deal over the line. That is already extremely rapid for an FTA negotiation,” Chris Humphrey, Executive Director of the EU-Asean Business Council (EU-ABC) said in a televised interview on Wednesday.

promotion and innovation, communication, and financial management, among others,” he added. In order to “realize inclusive economic development, particularly in poorer areas of the country,  the government, he said, needs to double down on its program to provide internet access to all.”

The senator suggests that in order to help, “propel internet connectivity in the country, the use and development of satellite-based technologies should be encouraged and promoted.”

Gatchalian has filed Senate Bill No. 814 or the Satellite-based Technologies for Internet Connectivity Act, which aims to ensure universal access to the internet, especially in critical areas such as e-government and the delivery of basic services, education, health, trade, finance, disaster preparedness and public safety. He explained that satellitebased internet technology uses a satellite to get an internet signal from the Internet Service Provider (ISP) to the user. The ISP sends a fiber internet signal to a satellite in space. The satellite dish is connected to the modem of the user, which then connects the user to the internet.

Meanwhile, the DICT recently bared plans to double the number of free WI-FI sites in the country with the aim of bridging the digital divide.  Butch Fernandez

the announcement, Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual told reporters that the formal start for face-to-face negotiations could happen in the early part of the second half of the year.

Allan B. Gepty, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary for International Trade Policy Group (ITPG) earlier told this paper that the goal of the trade negotiating team is “to conclude negotiations the soonest possible time” as they have to factor in that the Philippines may soon reach the upper middle income status.

administration than it was with his predecessor.”

Moreover, Humphrey said the supply chain disruptions brought by the Covid-19 pandemic and the conflict between Ukraine and Russia underscored the importance for the EU to de-risk or seek partners from different parts of the world.

“Europe itself…I think, spurred on by the Covid pandemic, then by the Russia Ukraine war, realized it needs to be closer to partners elsewhere in the world,” he said.

With this, the EU-ABC official explained that the bloc has started to bolster trade ties with Southeast Asian countries.

Humphrey noted that Europe is “really keen to get this deal over the line.”

Last week, the European Commission (EC) on Monday night, EC Executive Vice President (EVP) Valdis Dombrovskis and Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual formally announced the resumption of FTA negotiations between the EU and the Philippines. In a chance interview days after

“The view is shared by the European chamber in the Philippines is that these talks could actually move pretty swiftly. We’re not seeing any major roadblocks that you might see in other countries in the region,” Humphrey said, highlighting that the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has agreed to move on sustainability issues and green economy issues.

“Eventually, if this will be sustained consecutively for 3 years, then it will not qualify anymore under the EU GSP+. Hence, before this happens, we have to make sure that the FTA is already in place,” he told the BusinessMirror in a Viber message last week.

Humphrey said one reason why the talks would recommence is the “high level of alignment” in ambition between the 27-member bloc EU and the Philippines.

On why the timing is right for the two parties to resume talks for a free trade deal, the EU-Asean Business Council official said candidly that, “Europe is obviously a lot more comfortable with the Marcos

“Southeast Asia is a natural place to come to and if we look at the broader region, not only [have we] recommenced with the Philippines we have recommenced with Thailand, [there are] ongoing negotiations with Indonesia, digital trade agreement is on the cards with Singapore and [there’s] ongoing work at the region-to-region level,” Humphrey pointed out.

“And the Philippines is seen as a country that was really to do a big deal with Europe,” he further noted.

Meralco customers to reach 8M in November

customers at 7.2 million last year.

TBy Lenie Lectura @llectura

HE Manila Electric Company (Meralco) will register a customer count of eight million this year, an increase of about 2.5 percent from last year’s 7.8 million.

During a recent news briefing, the utility firm reported that it expects to reach 8 million customers by November 2024. “We expect to hit 8-million mark in terms of customer count this year,” said Meralco chief operating officer Ronnie Aperecho.

Meralco’s growth in customer count was sustained as it ended 2023 with 7.8 million from 7.6 million in 2022, up 3 percent. Residential customers still comprised bulk of Meralco

Meralco is the country’s largest electric power distribution firm. Its franchise area includes Metro Manila, Rizal, Cavite, parts of Bulacan, Pampanga, Batangas, Laguna, and Quezon.

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

Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga said the utility firm is in constant coordination with the Department of Energy (DOE) in working to ensure the delivery of stable, reliable, and continuous electricity service to customers during the summer months.

These include the Interruptible Load Program (ILP) and procurement of additional power supply, among others. “Meralco also proactively obtained additional power supply via a series of competitive selection processes [CSPs] to meet the growing electricity demand of its customers. Recently, we secured an additional 400-megawatt [MW] interim power supply through a recently concluded CSP, subject to the approval of the Energy Regulatory Commission [ERC],” Zaldarriaga added.

Likewise, Meralco continues to advocate for the expanded participation in the ILP as it urged businesses and industrial establishments to collectively alleviate the strain on the grid by participating in the program.

The ILP is an energy demandside management program through which large-load customers are asked to use their generator sets or reduce their operations, instead of drawing power from the grid, to spare households from power interruptions during instances of Red Alert or when supply is insufficient to meet the demand.

Currently, there are 105 companies enrolled in the ILP within the Meralco franchise—equivalent to 530 MW of total de-loading capacity. More participants are being urged to participate through a series of engagement initiatives.  “We remain steadfast in our commitment to deliver continuous and stable power supply to our 7.8 million customers at the least cost possible,” Zaldarriaga said.

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Commercial vehicles boost auto industry sales—Campi

By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan

Strong consumer appetite for new vehicles allowed the local auto industry to increase sales by double digits in the first two months of the year, according to the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (Campi).

“We

-

he said.

the January to February period at 29.2 percent year-on-year.

This was followed by heavy-duty trucks and buses at 24 percent; passenger car, 23.1 percent; commercial vehicle, 18.2 percent; light commercial vehicle,15.5 percent; light-duty trucks and buses,14.9 percent and medium-duty trucks and buses, 3.2 percent.

In terms of market share, however, commercial vehicles occupied the largest chunk in the auto sales pie in the two-month period, as it accounted for 75 percent or 54,048 units.

“Year-on-year growth was observed across all CV [commercial vehicle] sub-segments but light commercial vehicles continue to be the main driver with 40,201 units sold, equivalent to 74 percent share of total CV sales,” Campi said.

Meanwhile, passenger car sales reached 18,084 units or 25 percent of total vehicle sales.

Among car brands, Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. continued to dominate the market with 45.9 percent share, followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. with 18.4 percent, Ford Group Philippines with 7.2 percent, Nissan Philippines Inc. with 7.1 percent, and Suzuki Philippines Inc. with 4.1 percent.

The auto industry group said it is looking at a “very strong performance” in 2024, especially with the staging of the 9th Philippine International Motor Show this year. Gutierrez said last month that the auto industry group sees new model introductions and the expansion of the electrified vehicle line-up especially in the hybrid electric vehicle segment and more brands coming into the market.

The local automotive industry has set its sights on growing auto sales by 9 percent year to attain its “conservative” forecast of 468,300 vehicle units.

SMIC buys stake in CREIT for ₧5B SMC deploys more toll personnel for Holy Week exodus

By Lenie Lectura @llectura

SM Investments Corp. (SMIC) is acquiring a 28.79-percent stake in Citicore Energy REIT Corp. (CREIT) for P5 billion.

On Wednesday, Citicore Renewable Energy Corp. (CREC), together with its wholly owned subsidiary Citicore Solar Tarlac 1 Inc., sold a total of 1,884,374,000 common shares, equivalent to a 28.79-percent interest, in CREIT at P2.6534 per share to SMIC.

CREIT is the largest renewable energy real estate investment trust (REIT) landlord in the country having approximately 7.1 million square meters of gross leasable area.

“We believe that the SM group’s entry and investment into CREIT and the partnership with CREC unlocks

J&T Express, the Philippines’s leading logistics and delivery service provider, proudly commemorates its fifth anniversary, reflecting on an extraordinary journey marked by exponential growth, unwavering commitment to service excellence, and significant contributions to the community.

Since its inception in 2019, J&T Express Philippines has experienced phenomenal expansion, currently operating an extensive network of over 2,200 branches and warehouses nationwide. The company takes pride in its dedicated workforce of 60,000 service personnel to back up its operations and a fleet of 3,000 owned trucks and vehicles, solidifying its position as a key player in the logistics industry.

“As we rely on our advanced logistics facilities while continuing to accelerate the company’s digital transformation, this will enable us to create a reliable, efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly supply chain service system to meet e-commerce demands. Through this, J&T Express can continue delivering smiles and trust to our Filipino customers nationwide,” said Dean Ding, CEO of J&T Express Philippines.

With sharing and responsibility as part of its core values, J&T Express Philippines keeps the Bayanihan spirit alive in the previous year through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) “J&T

SAN Miguel Corp. (SMC) said on Wednesday it is ready to accommodate the expected 10-percent surge in traffic flow across its network of expressways, as Pinoys gear up for the annual exodus of travelers during the Holy Week.

Ramon S. Ang, president and CEO of SMC, said the conglomerate has deployed additional tollways personnel to key points along its expressways, including the South Luzon Expressway (Slex), Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (Star), Skyway System, Naia Expressway, and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (Tplex).

These personnel will be tasked with managing traffic and aiding motorists, particularly during peak hours.

To expedite processing and alleviate congestion, SMC has also stationed extra ambulant tellers equipped with handheld RFID card readers at toll plazas’ entry and exit points. This measure aims to stream-

line transactions and reduce waiting times for drivers.

Moreover, Ang said the company has intensified patrol surveillance to ensure swift emergency responses and aid for motorists in distress, noting that SMC is working closely with local government units to coordinate traffic management efforts and minimize disruptions along the expressways.

“We urge motorists to plan their trips in advance for a smoother, safer drive along expressways. Ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained and roadworthy is important for your convenience and safety. This will help prevent common issues like tire blowouts and engine overheating. Such problems can cause considerable delays and inconvenience, affecting not just you but others as well,” Ang said.

Ang also reminded motorists to maintain sufficient balance in their Autosweep RFID accounts to prevent toll plaza delays. Lorenz S. Marasigan

potential synergies given the energy requirements of the SM group,” CREC President Oliver Tan said in a statement.

CREC will continue to be the single largest stakeholder in CREIT with a 32.88-percent effective ownership post-transaction.

Proceeds from the sale will contribute to the further development of CREC’s 1,583MW ready-to-build solar power projects across eight site locations nationwide. CREC’s goal is to build a portfolio of one gigawatt of solar energy capacity per year as part of its five-year pipeline rollout roadmap.

BDO Capital & Investment Corp. acted as transaction adviser for the sale.

“As part of our group-wide sustainability agenda to prioritize environmental responsibility and sup -

port a low-carbon economy, we are investing in CREIT to increase SM’s footprint in the renewable energy sector,” said SMIC President Frederic DyBuncio.

The sale comes ahead of CREC’s initial public offering targeted to take place in the second quarter of 2024.

SMIC, the holding firm of the Sy family, reported last month that its net income grew 25 percent to P77 billion in 2023 from the P61.7 billion recorded in 2022.

Consolidated revenues rose 11 percent to P616.3 billion from P553 billion in the previous year.

In terms of net income contribution, banking provided the largest share at 47 percent, while property accounted for 25 percent, retail contributed 19 percent and portfolio investments delivered 9 percent.

PHL reaches new horizons

Cares,” extending support to communities affected by natural disasters such as Typhoon Egay, the Mayon Volcano eruption, and the jolting earthquakes in Surigao del Sur. Through these initiatives, J&T Express has provided critical assistance to thousands of families, emphasizing its commitment to making a positive impact on society. Recognizing that dedicated employees are the backbone of its success, J&T Express Philippines launched the “1 Family, Juan J&T” campaign in 2023. This nationwide initiative connects the company with its employees across all regions in the country, reinforcing the message that each employee is valued and integral to J&T Express’ achievements.

“Now that we are already in our fifth year, J&T Express aspires to continue to

work with employees and our business partners, further elevating our business to new heights and enhancing how we can keep up with the growing demands of our consumers,” Mr. Ding concludes.

J&T Express is known for its corporate excellence such as its mobile application, a VIP platform, free doorto-door pickup, cash-on-delivery payment option, 24/7 customer service, and 365-day operations, all complemented by its nationwide coverage that continues to expand as it celebrates its fifth anniversary in the Philippines.

J&T Express is a global logistics provider founded in 2015, currently operating in 13 countries worldwide: Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, China, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Brazil, and Egypt. Contributed photo

BIR issues digital TIN IDs to improve tax payment

a Digital TIN ID may enroll first in its “Orus” (https://orus.bir.gov.ph), the tax collecting agency said.

last Wednesday, the BIR said it issued a total of 102,046 Digital TIN IDs, as of March 25, 2024, through the bureau’s “Online Registration and Update System,” or “Orus,” reaching a “significant milestone” in the first quarter of the year.

Internal Revenue Commissioner

Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. said the digitalization of TIN ID is in line with the national government’s thrust to promote the “ease of doing business.”

“Reaching the 100,000 mark for Digital TIN IDs issued by the BIR shows our effort to promote excellent taxpayer service and expand our digital services to taxpayers,” Lumagui was quoted in the statement as saying.

The BIR said the process of securing a TIN was “streamlined and made easier” by providing “convenient” online access to taxpayers that is available 24/7.

It added that taxpayers can get their TIN in the comfort of their own homes or offices and need not go and line up in the Revenue District Offices (RDO) anymore. The BIR added that taxpayers with Digital TIN IDs are not required to secure a physical TIN card.

Individual taxpayers with existing TIN, with or without issued physical TIN card, who wish to apply for

Taxpayers with existing TIN are required to update their email addresses by sending an accomplished BIR Form S1905 through email to their concerned RDO or through the BIR’s “Taxpayer Registration Related Application” portal at www. bir.gov.ph

The BIR noted that the Digital TIN ID is free and not for sale, and further warned that taxpayers are at risk of the possibility of getting an invalid or fake TIN and incorrect taxpayer type classification when availing the services of online sellers of TIN ID assistance, which may affect their future transactions with the BIR.

The Bureau further said the Digital TIN ID is not a temporary TIN ID as both the physical TIN card and Digital TIN ID are valid and can be presented as proof of TIN ownership, subject to authentication and verification online.

The Digital TIN ID is a valid government-issued identification document that taxpayers can use for their transactions in government agencies and institutions, local government units, employers, banks, financial institutions and other relying parties, subject to authentication and verification, the BIR said.

The authenticity of the Digital TIN ID can be verified online through the Orus by scanning the Quick Response Code appearing in the Digital TIN ID using a mobile device camera, it added. Reine Juvierre Alberto

SC orders review of tax case vs Malampaya contractor

By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

THE Supreme Court (SC) has directed the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) to determine the civil liability for unpaid taxes of a private contractor from Palawan in relation to the projects funded by the Malampaya funds.

In an 11-page decision penned by Associate Justice Mario V. Lopez, the Court’s Second Division granted the petition filed by the government seeking the reversal of the rulings of the CTA on June 9, 2022, and November 4, 2022. In these the CTA found no civil liability on the part of Rebecca S. Tiotangco, owner of Anilos Trading and Construction, despite finding her guilty of the criminal offense for tax evasion.

Citing the lack of a valid assessment, the CTA refused to impose civil liability on Tiotangco for unpaid taxes amounting to about P22 million despite the finding of guilt in the criminal case.

According to the CTA, the failure of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to prove that Tiotangco received the assessment notices was tantamount to violating her right to due process, which would invalidate the assessment.

Under Section 205 of the 1997 Tax Code, a formal assessment is required

IBy Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

N a move to bolster entrepreneurship and support micro-sized, small-sized and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), the House of Representatives has given its nod to House Bill (HB) 10049, which aims to strengthen and empower financing and other support programs for these vital economic contributors.

The bill, endorsed for Senate approval after its passage on its third and final reading in the lower chamber, underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for MSMEs to thrive.

One of the key provisions of the bill is the periodic review and adjustment of the definitions of micro, small, and medium enterprises by the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Council every three years. This ensures that the classification remains relevant and reflective of prevailing economic conditions.

Moreover, eligible MSMEs stand to benefit from various government assistance, incentives, and benefits outlined in the bill. These include streamlined permit and license application processes, reduced issuance costs, and preferential treatment in government procurement opportunities.

Among the notable provisions are mandates for local government units to allocate space for MSME stores in public areas, discounts on shipping and delivery fees, and incentives for private establishments to provide free or discounted space for MSMEs within their premises.

The bill also addresses access to finance, with provisions mandating lending institutions to allocate a percentage of their loan portfolios to MSMEs. It encourages cash flow-based lending, simplified loan application processes, and reporting of credit information to the Credit Information Corp.

The bill expands the membership of the MSMED Council, enhances the role of the Small Business Corp. (SB Corp.), and imposes penalties for noncompliance with mandated provisions, with the collected penal-

ties allocated to the MSMED Council Fund.

The proposal amends the name of the “Small Business Guarantee and Finance Corporation” to “Small Business Corporation.” The bill also deletes the guarantee function of the SB Corp., replacing it with the “Enterprise Rehabilitation Fund” for calamity-stricken MSMEs. This fund must not exceed P500 million.

The bill also mandates the SB Corp. to submit an annual report to the MSMED Council, the Congress of the Philippines, and the GCG on the performance and financial condition of the corporation.

The proposal stipulates that the SB Corp. shall not be subject to the supervision and examination of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The bill also exempts the SB Corp. from securing prior BSP authorization for engaging in quasi-banking activities.

HB 10049 increases the authorized capital stock of the SB Corp. to P50 billion, saying the national government equity in the SB Corp. shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act. It also stipulates that the initial amount of at least 10 percent of the equity contribution of the national government to the capitalization of the Small Business Corp. but not more than P500 million, shall be set aside to fund the venture capital and microfinance trust fund. It extends the mandatory allocation of credit resources to MSMEs for another 10 years.

The bill also mandates all lending institutions to allocate 10 percent of their total loan portfolio for MSMEs for an additional period of 10 years, but only a maximum of 3 percent thereof shall be allocated for medium enterprises.

Meanwhile, the bill mandates all lending institutions to actively support and participate in programs that form part of the priority initiatives under the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion that promote access to finance for MSMEs while ensuring that they have adequate and effective credit risk management systems.

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

EMERGING risks to inflation and a tentative outlook for export growth may push back any decision of the Monetary Board to cut key interest rates in the country this year, according to ANZ Research.

In its latest Asian Economic Outlook, ANZ Research said the gradual retreat in the increase in commodity prices was largely due to “favorable base effects.”

Inflation has been within the BSP’s 2 to 4 percent target for the past three months. Inflation was above eight percent starting December 2022 until February 2023.

“We do not see any urgency for the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to cut rates, considering the renewed current account pressures and the domestic inflation situation,” ANZ Research said. The data showed inflation slowed to 3.9 percent, 2.8 percent, and 3.4 percent in December 2023, January 2024, and February 2024, respectively.

Inflation was at 8.1 percent, 8.7

GLOBE Fintech Innovations Inc.

(GFII), operator of the electronic wallet GCash, has joined a dozen financial technology (fintech) firms based in Asia in the launch of “Programme Sirus.”

In a statement issued from Tokyo, Japan, last Tuesday, Ant International Pty. Ltd. announced that GFII is one of 13 Asian fintech firms that signed it for the program whose acronym stands for “Sustainability Innovation for Regenerative & Inclusive Purpose.” The statement added that the program seeks to “empower” micro-sized, small-sized and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) “in their transition towards sustainability, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.”

According to Ant International, “Programme Sirius” is an “industry-led knowledge initiative that aims to support MSMEs operating on digital platforms

to award civil liability in criminal cases. Thus, the tax appeals court said that without a valid assessment, there is no basis for the CTA to rule on (Tiotangco’s) civil liability.

However, the SC ruled that a valid assessment for deficiency taxes is not prerequisite for collecting the taxpayer-accused’s civil liability for unpaid taxes in the criminal prosecution for tax law violations.

Citing its recent ruling in People v. Mendez, the SC clarified that with the advent of Republic Act (RA) 9282 (An Act Expanding the Jurisdiction of the CTA), a formal assessment is no longer a condition precedent to the imposition of civil liability for unpaid taxes in relation to the criminal tax case.

It added that Section 7 (b) (1) of RA 9282 gives the CTA “exclusive original jurisdiction” over all criminal offenses from violations of all tax-related laws.

The said provision further states that “the criminal action and the corresponding civil action for the re-

percent, and 8.6 percent in December 2022, January 2023, and February 2023, respectively

“The sequential momentum, however, remains elevated at 0.6 percent [January- February 2024 average]. If persistent, this could push the annual print above 4 percent, near term,” ANZ Research said.

“For headline inflation to be sustainably below 4 percent, month-onmonth gains in both food and core prices need to retreat,” it added.

In terms of the current account, ANZ Research said, is expected to moderate compared to the “trade shock” experienced in 2022 and 2023. However, export performance remains to have a tentative outlook.

While services exports are expected to remain robust on the back of higher revenues from the tourism and business process outsourcing sectors. However, due to the uncertainties in goods export performance, ANZ Research said the 2024 current account deficit is forecast to slow to 2.4 percent of GDP versus 2.6 percent in 2023.

“We are wary of the real strength

in their journey towards sustainability.”

“It will foster open industry dialogues where like-minded industry partners can exchange ideas on sustainability innovations and share best practices to support MSMEs on their sustainability journey, helping their transition into a low-carbon economy, advancing their accessibility to sustainability financing, and uplifting MSMEs with new growth opportunities.”

Ant International added that the International Finance Corp., the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, will collaborate with the Singapore unit of the Ant Group “to develop and promote a set of Digital Sustainability Impact Management Toolkits in the next two years.”

“These toolkits aim to empower MSMEs to adopt environmentally and socially friendly practices to improve MSMEs’ access to sustainable finance through digitalization while driving the

The

Division to determine [Tiotangco’s] civil liability in CTA Criminal Case 0-602 and CTA Criminal Case 0-605 for willful failure to file to supply correct and accurate information in her income tax returns for the taxable years 2010 and 2008,” the SC added.

In a statement issued nearly a decade ago, the Department of Finance (DOF) said the BIR filed on November 9, 2014, a criminal complaint with the Department of Justice against Tiotangco “for Willful Attempt to Evade or Defeat Tax, and Deliberate Failure to Supply Correct and Accurate Information in her Annual Income Tax Returns (ITR) and in her Quarterly Value Added Tax (VAT)

in this recovery. In level terms, exports continue to decline. The global semiconductor upcycle has not yet benefited the Philippines’ technology exports and is indicative of the weakening relationship between the two,” ANZ Research said. Given these, ANZ Research said the economy’s growth is still expected to be below 6 percent this year and next year. The think tank said GDP is expected to post a growth of 5.7 percent this year and 5.9 percent next year. In 2023, the economy grew 5.6 percent.

The target of the government is to attain a growth of 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent this year. However, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan believe a GDP growth of 6 percenrt remains feasible for the year. (See: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2024/03/13/ global-slowdown-justifies-lowergrowth-targets/).

Earlier, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said inflation in March may have been around 3.9 percent. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/03/21/bsp-inflation-

entire economy towards a low-carbon development path,” the statement read.

At the launch, 13 industry partners from 11 economies have committed to be part of “Programme Sirus.” These are: Alipay Hong Kong Holding Ltd. (Hong Kong SAR, China), ANEXT Bank Pte. Ltd. (Singapore), Bigpay Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Malaysia), bKash Ltd (Bangladesh), DANA by PT Espay Debit Indonesia Koe (Indonesia), GCash (the Philippines), Hipay LLC (Mongolia), Kakao Pay by Kakao Corp. (Republic of Korea), MPay by Macau Pass S.A (Macao SAR, China), TNG Digital Sdn Bhd (Malaysia), TossPay by Viva Republica Inc. (Republic of Korea), True Money Co. Ltd. (Thailand) and Zalopay by VNG Corp. (Vietnam).

“We always talk about financial and digital inclusion, but sustainability inclusion for MSMEs is becoming one of the most pressing challenges,” Ant International Chief Sustainability Officer

Returns, for taxable years 2008 and 2010, all in violation of Sections 254 and 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended (Tax Code).” (See https://www.dof.gov. ph/bir-nets-another-malampayafund-infrastructure-projectscontractor-and-cpa-lawyer/)

The DOF said “investigation showed that Tiotangco declared in her ITRs for taxable years 2008 and 2010 gross income amounting to only P16.49 million and P20.05 million, respectively.”

“However, a Certification issued by the Provincial Government of Palawan in reply to an access letter sent by the BIR showed that Tiotangco received income payments from the said local government unit amounting to P76.19 million in 2008 and P31.63 million in 2010,” the DOF statement read.

The DOF added that a comparison of Tiotangco’s gross income declaration in her ITRs as against income payments she received from the Provincial Government of Palawan disclosed that she substantially underdeclared her correct taxable income by P59.70 million or by 362 percent in 2008 and by P11.58 million or by 57 percent in 2010.

“As a consequence of her acts and omissions, Tiotangco was assessed an aggregate deficiency tax liability of P82.36 million, inclusive of surcharges and interests, broken down as follows: 2008—P69.14 million [Income Tax— P50.08 million; and VAT—P19.06 million]; and 2010—P13.22 million [Income Tax—P7.56 million; and VAT—P5.66 million],” the DOF said.

could-have-hit-3-9-in-march/).

The BSP’s inflation target is 2 to 4 percent for 2024. Inflation in February increased to 3.4 percent from 2.8 percent in January. Inflation was at 7.6 percent in March 2023.

However, the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) does not expect inflation to exceed 3.4 percent in March 2024, given the slower-than-expected progress on the legislated wage.

Balisacan told reporters that the legislated wage being proposed by the Senate of the Philippines and the House of Representatives has the potential to fan inflation. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/03/22/wage-bills-delaymay-temper-march-inflation/).

The Neda Secretary reiterated the oversight agency’s position that wages should be set through a tripartite decision between the government, employers, and workers.

Balisacan added that the recent growth of the economy has benefited workers nationwide, indicating that wages have somewhat caught up with the needs of workers.

Leiming Chen was quoted in the statement as saying. “As these merchants play an increasingly important role in the global and local economies, there is a need to provide them with the right mindset, knowledge, and resources to take climate action. Given the complexities of the task, ranging from taxonomy and governance framework to cost and education, it requires collective effort across public and private sectors, industries, and markets to drive this change.” “MSMEs are the backbone of any growing economy. With this, GCash has become their bridge to digital by providing essential tools—transforming the way they do business. We remain committed to helping Filipino MSMEs achieve progress through democratized financial services, especially with easy access to credit,” GFII President and CEO Martha Sazon was quoted in the statement as saying. Lorenz S. Marasigan

MONGOLIAN PARLIAMENTARY MEMBER VISITS Senate President Juan

Miguel F. Zubiri (right) received early in March Honorable Ganzorig Temuulen who is the chairman of the Standing Committee on Budget of the State’s Great Hural (Parliament) of Mongolia, and president of the Mongolia-Philippines Parliamentary Group. Temuulen and the members of the delegation are visiting the Philippines to study the country’s fiscal and taxation system, as well as related policies. During the call, both officials agreed to forge stronger interparliamentary collaboration,

WORKING WITH GLOBAL PARTNERS The Department of Labor and Employment

STRONG TIES Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa of South Korea (top row, center) receives Senate Resolution 946 that recognizes the enduring amity and cooperation between his nation and the Philippines on March 11. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri (sixth from left) said the ceremony also recognizes 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. PNA/AVITO DALAN

AGRI MEET Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Human Resource Development Foundation president Dr. Alberto Fenix (from left), with the Czech Republic’s Chamber of Commerce vice president Jana Havrdova and Minister of Agriculture Marek Výborný deliver keynote addresses during the Czech Chamber of Commerce’s business-to-business seminar on Agriculture on March 21. Výborný said his office and the Department of Agriculture are aiming for a cooperation deal in the areas of agriculture, water management and forestry. PNA/AVITO DALAN

THE United States government and the Health Department announced additional funding to combat the persistent threat of tuberculosis (TB) in the Philippines.

forts of local nongovernment organizations and private-sector partners in fighting TB, such as providing payment vouchers for early TB screening; utilizing advanced technologies in TB testing; enhancing the ability of health advocates to find cases and support survivors; increasing the use of TB preventive treatment; as well as integrating TB screening with the testing of other lung diseases, HIV, and diabetes. These efforts will help screen at least a million Filipinos for TB and ensure proper treatment of those afflicted.

current chief of staff, jointly led the ceremonial signing of the partnership at the TB Active Case Finding Summit in Manila on March 21. The additional funding consists of P550 million ($10 million) from the aid agency and private-sector partners for the “Support Wide-scale Interventions To Find TB (SWIF-TB)” initiative, and a matching pledge by DOH worth P605 million ($11 million).

Through SWIF-TB, USAID and its partners will help expand ongoing ef-

THE United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) will mark its 60th anniversary with a Global Leaders Forum on June 12 and 13 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland under the theme: “Charting a new development course in a changing world.”

The forum will unite leaders from across countries and industries to catalyze a new course for development, according to a statement from the agency.

“This is not just a funding opportunity—it is a call to action. Combating tuberculosis demands a unified effort from the entire society, including civil society, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations. We are proud to partner with the Philippines to combat TB,” Adams-Allen said.

“The [DOH] stands firm in its dedication. To this end, we are pledging the government's matching amount of around $11 million to strengthen primary health-care services, en-

Secretary-General António Guterres of the UN will open the two-day event, which will unite heads of state and institutions, representatives of governments and civil society, as well as leading economists and experts. Participants from across the globe will convene to advance new development thinking and actions in the current era of “polyglobalization” marked by growing economic diversity and decentralization, even as countries become ever-more in-

hance capacities, and fortify infrastructure. Our goal is to accelerate universal access to TB care, leaving no one behind,” David said.

The Philippines and Ethiopia were the only two countries selected to receive SWIF-TB funding. WHO’s “2023 Global TB Report” estimates that 106 Filipinos die of TB daily.

“Together, the Philippine government and USAID will amplify existing efforts, implement innovative case-finding strategies, expand preventative therapies, and ensure that everyone, especially the most

terdependent at a global level.

“As we adapt to changing times, charting a new development course provides a framework for building a future that is resilient, equitable and sustainable,” said Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan of UNCTAD.

In exploring new strategies for development, the forum will focus on UNCTAD’s integrated treatment of trade and development, and the interrelated issues of finance, technology, investment and

vulnerable, has access to the care and treatment they need,” Adams-Allen remarked. “We will ensure that community health workers are paid a fair wage, another innovation under this critical project.”

SWIF-TB aims to help achieve the target set by the United Nations to find and treat 2.1 million TB cases in the Philippines by 2027. As the world’s largest bilateral TB donor, USAID has invested more than P260 billion ($4.7 billion) in combating TB since 2000, saving more than 75 million lives globally since 2000.

PART of the celebrations of the 60th year of bilateral relations between Malaysia and the Philippines, the embassy of the former introduced on March 18 the local community to bubur lambuk. It is a hearty porridge made of rice, meat, spices and various vegetables, and is often distributed to the public during the holy month of Ramadan. The recipe includes a variety of spices such as cinnamon, star anise, and cardamom, giving the porridge a warm, fragrant aroma. The dish may also be made with chicken, beef, or lamb, depending on personal preference.

The embassy’s chef Ammar Syafiq Ayob prepared the dish at the official residence of the Malaysian ambassador Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, together with the staff and spouses of the deputation, as well as kitchen personnel of Berjaya Hotel-Makati.

sustainable development. It will pay special attention to the needs of developing nations, particularly the least-developed countries, small-island developing states, and landlocked developing countries.

Facing development challenges

IN the sixty years since UNCTAD’s creation, the world economy has seen the rise of the Global South, the creation of a vast digital economy, and unprecedented reductions in global poverty and hunger.

AMBASSADOR Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino prepares some samples of bubur lambuk

The program was conducted in collaboration with Perwakilan Manila, Berjaya Hotel Makati and Maybank Philippines.

The Embassy of Malaysia said it is “dedicated to promoting cultural exchange and strengthening diplomatic relations [with the Philippines]. Through various initiatives and events, it strives to foster mutual understanding and respect between different cultures.”

The ambassador hopes that the initiative will not only promote cultural exchange, but also provide “an opportunity for people to come together and enjoy a delicious meal. To be able to share Malaysian traditional cuisine with the local community is also a wonderful way to celebrate the essence of Ramadan, the spirit of togetherness and share our cultural heritage with others which encapsulates the embassy’s aim of ‘bubur lambuk diplomacy.’”

Japan empowers Bohol farmers, fisherfolks livelihood post-‘Odette’

THE Embassy of Japan in the Philippines led the ceremonial turnover of agriculture and fishery inputs to the beleaguered communities of Bohol Province on March 19.

The embassy’s first secretary and Agriculture attaché Jumpei Tachikawa led the turnover held in the Municipality of Ubay. Said initiative by Japan aims at restoring livelihoods and enhancing the resilience of farmers and fisherfolks affected by Typhoon “Odette” (international name Rai).

The past decades, however, have also witnessed worsening inequalities within and among countries, more frequent boom and bust trade and finance cycles, and a growing threat of climate catastrophe, especially in the countries that have done the least to cause it.

Mayor Constantino Reyes of Ubay, Mayor Fernando, Estavilla of President Carlos P. Garcia City, Representative in the Philippines Lionel Dabbadie of the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Department of Agriculture officials, local government officials, and project beneficiaries also graced the event.

The Covid-19 pandemic has laid bare the world’s diminishing capacity to recover inclusively from crises—evident in rising poverty and hunger, leading to consecutive reductions in the Human Development Index. The systems of global economic governance have not kept pace with these shifts, leading to a contradiction at the heart of globalization. This can be measured in ever-more frequent crises meeting everweaker international responses, a worrying trend toward economic slowdown and geopolitical fragmentation, and a world system that simultaneously connects and divides, enriches and impoverishes, empowers and marginalizes.

USAID Deputy Administrator Paloma Adams-Allen (right) joins Undersecretary Lilibeth David (left) at the ceremonial signing of a partnership to fight tuberculosis at the TB Active Case Finding Summit in Manila on March 21.

Life

Giving focus on our kidneys

EASILY, DELICIOUSLY

GET YOUR SNACK GAME ON

FOR many Filipinos who love to eat, three meals a day simply aren’t enough—we happily have snacks for midmorning and a merienda in the afternoon. This is because having a light but delicious snack is perfect to get us through the hours while waiting for the next full meal.

Thankfully, Kenny Rogers Roasters—a brand known for its exciting and deliciously healthy innovations—continues to excite and satisfy the Filipino palate with the introduction of its New Awesome Snacks, a fun snacking experience customers will surely love.

Now vailable in all Kenny Rogers Roasters stores nationwide, customers can choose from various deliciously healthy snack selections. There’s the Mac and Cheese Burger (P260), a fusion of their mac and cheese layered with grilled beef patty, mayo, lettuce, and tomato sandwiched between slightly roasted buns. For those who are always onthe-go, the Nacho Wrap (P235) is perfection. It’s made up of freshly prepared tomatoes, onion, lettuce, and chicken with a spread of yogurt and salsa and a layer of colorful nacho chips wrapped in a flour tortilla. It’s the ideal choice for a delicious and convenient on-the-go snack.

Another snack offering is the Wrap and Roll Steak (P260) made of grilled steak slices, romaine lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, onions and mushrooms mixed with sweet honey mustard dressing and wrapped in a soft tortilla. This snack comes with chips and a drink. Another Awesome Snack is the Truffle Pasta—al dente pasta shells with creamy truffle sauce and served with two pieces of toasted garlic bread.

Finally, completing the lineup are the Stuffed Baked Rolls (P180). These rolls come in three awesome flavors: Spam, Bacon, and Cheese Stuffed Baked Roll; Hawaiian Stuffed Baked Roll; and Spinach Cheese Stuffed Baked Roll. The Spam, Bacon, and CheeseStuffed Baked Roll features a soft dough generously packed with savory spam luncheon meat, bacon slices, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. The Hawaiian Stuffed Baked Roll consists of a combination of ham, juicy pineapples, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, all nestled within a tender roll. Lastly, the Spinach Cheese Stuffed Baked Roll offers a creamy and savory filling comprised of

The

THE holidays over the Holy Week are coming up soon. We all get a few days off our daily schedule to reflect and recharge. In November last year, I shared my learning from Prevention’s The Guide to Aging Slower: Your Body’s Complete Owner’s Manual

Recently, I learned that chronic kidney disease, or CKD, is one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines. According to the National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI), one Filipino develops chronic renal failure every hour, and it is estimated to be at least 2.3 million Filipinos currently diagnosed with CKD. Meanwhile, other recent projections show that one in 10 Filipinos will develop this deadly disease.

CKD is a condition where the kidney’s functions have gradually decreased over a period of time, and it can no longer filter blood as properly as before. As a result, excess waste and fluid remains in the body and causes other health problems such as heart disease and stroke.

“The problem with this is that it has no early signs. Symptoms will only show when your kidneys have deteriorated already,” shares Dr. Greta Cortez, head of medicine, Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines) Inc.

“Fortunately, there are a number of ways we can keep our kidneys healthy and prevent CKD such as early screening, lifestyle checks, and understanding your family’s medical history.”

There is a simple two-step screening process to check kidney health. First is the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eFGR), a blood test that measures the waste called creatinine in your blood; second is the urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR) test that uses a urine sample to measure albumin, or protein level present in your urine. The two primary conditions that often lead to CKD are diabetes and hypertension.

Lifestyle factors such as age, smoking, family history of CKD, and obesity also put individuals at risk of CKD. Unhealthy lifestyles are also considered because they might cause you to eat foods high in sugar and sodium, be exposed to constant stress, or keep you from moving your body.

Keeping our kidneys healthy means keeping our whole body healthy. It is highly recommended to make sure you’re getting enough exercise every day even if it’s just walking. Eat foods less in sugar and salt and eat more fruits and vegetables. Remember to incorporate healthy stress management habits into your lifestyle such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep to prevent high blood

pressure or diabetes. If you start incorporating these healthy habits in your daily life, CKD can be the least of your worries.

“Cultivating a healthy lifestyle within your community is key to maintaining them. We can hold each other accountable,” shares Reynaldo Abacan Jr., founder and president of Dialysis PH, a support organization for renal failure patients and their families. “We encourage everyone to check their kidney health as chronic kidney disease is a lifelong condition that affects the quality of life, not just of the patient but of their loved ones as well.”

Remember, getting your kidneys checked is the most straightforward way to find out if your kidneys are healthy. Reach out to your doctor as soon as possible and make sure your loved ones do too.

According to the resource I mentioned above from Prevention, although high-protein diets have become popular for weight loss, this has a negative effect on our body. It states that research suggests that a superhigh protein diet can boost your risk of developing kidney disease or stones. Animal protein produces an acidic environment in the body, increasing the formation of kidney stones and leeching calcium from bones, says Brill. “Plant proteins don’t have the same effect,” she says. Try to eat lots of fruits and vegetables because they’re high in potassium, which helps

protect against kidney stones.

Below are other tips from the same resource to prevent kidney stones:

n Drink plenty of water. These hard deposits are typically made up of calcium, oxalate, and other minerals that are absorbed from food and excreted through your urine. When urine gets too concentrated because you are dehydrated, those minerals can crystallize to form these painful pebbles. Make a point to drink six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day to help keep your urine diluted.

n Get moving. Light exercise can cut your risk by more than 33 percent, according to a study in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Three hours a week spent walking or one hour jogging changes how your body handles dietary minerals in ways that lower your chances of developing a stone.

n Amp up your calcium intake. Because kidney stones usually form from calcium, doctors used to think that avoiding this mineral could prevent them. Now they know dietary calcium may actually help protect against stones by binding with oxalate in the intestines and preventing it from reaching the kidneys.

n Go easy on the protein. Experts say too much dietary protein can create an ideal environment for kidney stones to flourish. n

life of the mysterious Signora Frola and her son-in-law Signor Ponza, who, due to a devastating tragedy, move to a new town. Driven by the desire to uncover the new settlers’ family secrets, the villagers create conflicting versions of the truth and accusations of madness against Frola and Ponza. The group of enthusiastic residents led by Amalia, Agazzi, Cini, Dina, and Nenni likewise portray absurd and unreasonable acts to unravel the peculiar life of the newcomers.

Yun Na Nga! (Kung ’Yun Na Nga) is directed by Roobak Valle, ad hoc chairman of professional staging company Gantimpala Theater Foundation.

The two-hour show is produced by Novel:Theater, a group of young talents from the Theater Arts Program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) School of Arts, Culture, and Performance (SACP).

It showcases the performances of thespians, namely Aidan Angan, Faith Baclig, EJ Bautista, Lenard Bulosan, Aira Caliao, Dara Estioko, Katrina Gamba, Edith Garcia, Boom Gonzales, Daryl Greñas, Philip Macabantad, Niezel Nicolas, Pia Nuñez, Dave Palomo, Erica Prado and Ron Villanueva. The production design team, on the other hand, is comprised of Mei Abendan, Coleen Aldana, Rose Ansay, Sophia Barroga, Carleen Calamba, Alec Del Rosario, Kiarra Garcia, Samantha Guerrero, Ciara Guillermo, Nacho Mendoza, Andrea Resurrecion, Gero Rojas, Anya Sanchez, and Ysabel Suaybaguio.

Tickets are available at P350. More information is available at www.facebook.com/novel.theater.

By David Bauder The

Associated Press

NEW YORK—The internal furor over NBC News’ decision to hire former Republican National Committee head Ronna McDaniel as a paid contributor spread on Monday, with MSNBC personalities Rachel Maddow, Jen Psaki, Nicolle Wallace, Lawrence O’Donnell and Joe Scarborough all using their shows to publicly object.

Maddow, MSNBC’s most popular personality, compared it to putting a mobster to work in a district attorney’s office.

“I find the decision to put her on the payroll inexplicable and I hope they will reconsider that decision,” she said on her weekly program on Monday night. There was no immediate comment on Monday from NBC News or McDaniel about the extraordinary public revolt against network management that began with former Meet the Press moderator Chuck Todd a day earlier. Todd said that many NBC News journalists were uncomfortable with the hiring because of McDaniel’s “gaslighting” and “character assassination” while at the RNC.

The network announced McDaniel’s hiring on Friday, two weeks after she stepped down as the RNC leader, saying McDaniel would add to NBC News’ coverage with an insider’s perspective on national politics and the future of the Republican Party.

Maddow said she’d been told that MSNBC management had signed off on the hiring, but that when staff “expressed outrage,” it was made clear that McDaniel would not appear on the cable network, which appeals primarily to liberal viewers. Since then, she said there’s been an effort in other parts

of the company to “muddy that up in the press” and make it seem like that’s not what happened.

“I can assure you, that is what happened at MSNBC,” she said.

Maddow told her viewers—and presumably her bosses—that “it is a sign of strength, not weakness, to acknowledge that you’re wrong.”

The on-air MSNBC rebellion stretched from predawn to late in the evening, starting with Morning Joe hosts Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski promising viewers they would not see McDaniel in her NBC News capacity. Brzezinski said it’s fair to seek Republican voices to balance election coverage, but “not a person who used her position of power to be an anti-democracy election denier.”

Wallace said that with the hiring, NBC has said to election deniers “not just that they can do that on our airwaves, but that they can do that as one of us, a badge-carrying employee of NBC News, as a paid contributor to our sacred airwaves.”

Said O’Donnell: “There is an easy way to avoid the controversy that NBC News has stumbled into. Don’t hire anyone close to the crimes.”

Psaki said she decided to speak up because, as a former press secretary to President Joe Biden, her name has been used by McDaniel supporters to point out that a former Democratic political appointee was hired by MSNBC without internal objection.

She said that for a television personality, that kind of experience in government “only matters and only has value to viewers if it is paired with honesty and good faith.” One of those GOP critics was US Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, who mentioned Psaki among several others who switched to news after working in politics for Democrats, including the late Meet the Press moderator Tim Russert.

“But NBC hired a Republican??!!” he wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “It’s the end of the world.”

In a social media posting on Monday, Todd said that those who are trying to make it an issue of left vs. right were being intentionally dishonest. “This is about whether honest journalists are supposed to lend their credibility to someone who intentionally tried to ruin ours,” he said.

The Morning Joe hosts aired an exchange from McDaniel’s interview the day before on Meet the Press with current moderator Kristen Welker, who wondered why the former RNC chairman didn’t speak up earlier after saying Sunday she disagreed with Trump’s contention that people jailed for their part in the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol should be freed.

“When you’re the RNC chair you kind of take one for the whole team, right?” McDaniel said. “Now I get to be a little bit more myself, right? This is what I believe.” It’s not unusual for television news outlets to hire politicians as analysts and commentators. One of McDaniel’s predecessors at the RNC, Michael Steele, is an MSNBC contributor who hosts a weekend news program there.

CBS News faced some backlash for hiring two former officials in the Trump administration, Reince Priebus and Mick Mulvaney, as analysts. Alyssa Farah Griffin, a former White House communications director during the Trump administration, became a CNN political commentator.

But McDaniel’s tacit endorsement of Trump’s false claims that the outcome of the 2020 presidential election was fraudulent makes her hiring even more sensitive, given the continuing legal and political ripples of the January 6, 2021, siege at the US Capitol that was an outgrowth of the fraud allegations.

COCA-COLA PHILIPPINES CELEBRATES WORLD WATER DAY AT WATER SECURITY FORUM

THE

IN celebration of World Water Day, Coca-Cola Philippines and the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) convened stakeholders to discuss the critical challenges surrounding water resource management in the Philippines. Held on March 7, 2024, the “Sip & Sustain:

Water Security for the Philippines” event brought together industry leaders, experts, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) represented by Undersecretary Carlos Primo C. David to discuss strategies aimed at ensuring water security for all Filipinos. Participants shared their thoughts on

IN

of SM Store CSR

the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for collaborative efforts to tackle water-related challenges effectively. Topics ranging from data collection and planning to governance and accountability were explored, emphasizing the significance of transparent and accountable water management systems.

In addition to fostering dialogue among stakeholders, the event underscored the role of public-private partnerships in driving innovation and investment in water management initiatives, such as The Coca-Cola Company’s 2030 Global Water Security Strategy, where the company aims to:

n Achieve 100 percent regenerative water use across 175 facilities in different countries identified as facing high levels of water stress by 2030;

n Work with partners to help improve the health of 60 watersheds identified as most critical for the system’s operations and agricultural supply chains by 2030; and

n Return a cumulative total of 2 trillion liters of water to nature and communities globally, between 2021 to 2030.

For more information on Coca-Cola Philippines’ sustainability efforts, please visit www.coca-cola.com.ph or follow @ CocaColaPhilippines on Facebook and @ cocacolaph on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.

girls to comfortably navigate their journey to womanhood and manage their menstrual health. This advocacy program garnered overwhelming support from loyal shoppers, generating the donation of 5,000 menstrual hygiene kits to various NGO partners nationwide.

On March 12, 2024, 500 kits were distributed to the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) National Headquarters in Ermita, Manila, and an additional 500 kits were sent to an SM Foundation partner school in Tungkong Mangga Elementary School, City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.

The succeeding turnover conducted last March 14, 2024 where the young women of Girl Scouts of the Philippines Visayas in Cebu City and Jugan Elementary School in Consolacion, Cebu, each received 1,000 curated hygiene kits. The final distribution happened last March 21, 2024, with 1,500 kits delivered to GSP Eastern Mindanao in Toril, Davao City, and another 500 kits to Talikala Davao, a United Nations (UN) Women partner NGO in Mindanao.

As International Women’s Month comes to a close, SM Store encourages everyone to continue supporting initiatives that empower women. From SM Store, Happy International Women’s Month to the amazing Filipinas

a seasoned auto industry professional with over two decades of experience, was elected as President and Chairman of ATMAI. A diverse group of officers who each bring a wealth of knowledge and commitment to the association complement his leadership, including: Odessa Escartin, Treasurer, brings her insightful experience from the event management and insurtech industries to oversee the association’s financial health. Atty. Marlon Valderrama, Corporate Secretary, a startup lawyer and a legal tech founder, lends his

extensive legal expertise to ensure governance and compliance.

This dynamic team is further supported by a board of directors comprised of Jayvee De Leon of Forent, Olive Escartin of Oseas Tech, Kevin Abalos of AutoServed, Zes Martinez of Fame Technologies and Homer Nievera of Negosentro Group, all distinguished professionals from various sectors within the auto tech and mobility industry, all committed to driving forward the association’s mission.

“The introduction of our new officers at the Roundtable ATM marks a historic moment for our association, signaling the beginning of a new era of leadership committed to pioneering innovation in the auto tech and mobility space.” said Saberola. “With the collective expertise and vision of our leadership team, ATMAI is poised to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities of the future, making significant contributions to the industry.”

The Roundtable ATM event provided an engaging platform for discussions on the latest trends, challenges, and advancements in the auto tech and mobility sectors, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving the industry forward.

ATMAI extends its gratitude to the participants of the Roundtable ATM and invites all stakeholders in the auto tech and mobility industry to join in its mission to innovate and advocate for a future defined by sustainable mobility and technological excellence.

For more information about ATMAI and how to get involved, visit www.autotechmobility.org.

ONE

Bukidnon’s award-winning coffee farmers get livelihood boost from One Meralco Foundation

AROUND 150 coffee farmers in Talakag, Bukidnon have received a muchneeded boost for their livelihood through One Meralco Foundation (OMF), the social development arm of Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco), after it energized their postharvest coffee bean processing facility using solar power.

The coffee farmers are now benefitting from the five-kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) system that was turned over to the Milalittra Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (MILFACO), whose members are from the Miarayon-Lapok-Lirongan-Tinaytayan-Talaandig Tribal Association, Inc. (Milalittra), one of the indigenous groups of Bukidnon.

The group is known for its award-winning coffee beans, cited as the best washed processed coffee by the Philippine Coffee Quality Competition.

The newly energized post-harvest production facility improved the Talaandig coffee farmers’ productivity by enabling them to run their pulping machine for four hours—an essential step to postharvest production. From previously pulping coffee cherries for 10 minutes per kilo manually, they can now pulp 60 kilos per hour, which is expected to result in about 43 percent increase in their income.

“With electricity, our coffee beans will be of high quality so that we can find the right buyers at a right price point. The electrification has helped us give justice to the hard work of our coffee farmers,” according to Joannah Dumaquita, General Manager of MILFACO.

Through OMF’s agriculture and livelihood electrification program, rural cooperatives, and community organizations like MILFACO are given an opportunity to

improve their micro-enterprise through solar PV systems.

“Through our years of implementing community electrification programs, we have discovered and realized that many in these last-mile communities are still left wanting basic services. Lack of electricity continues to be a perennial hurdle to progress which many communities, especially in rural Philippines, deserve. Through our Agriculture and Livelihood Electrification, we have witnessed that solar power is not only a fundamental tool for productivity but also a great equalizer to enable last mile Filipinos to become productive actors of their community and country,” said OMF President Jeffrey O. Tarayao.

The installation of the solar PV system was also made possible by the generosity of Meralco employees, who donated a combined P560,000 for the energization project that benefitted MILFACO.

The project serves as an important part of OMF’s electrification for development portfolio. To date, the Foundation has energized 300 schools, four rural health centers, three water access facilities, and three agriculture and livelihood facilities. As a contribution to the universal aspiration of sustainability and inclusive growth, electrification for development aims to bring the benefits of electrification to those who need it the most.

“One Meralco Foundation’s work is an ever-evolving journey to understand the daily realities of Filipinos in need, address their gap and initiate interventions to better their situation. The community electrification program is a testament that we are ready to support them until they are able to stand on their own and become agents of change for others,” said Manuel V. Pangilinan, Meralco Chairman and CEO.

Editor:

‘Hit the Mark’ campaign highlights biomarker testing, personalized lung cancer treatment

Precision medicine involves delivering the appropriate cancer treatment to the right patient at the right time. This approach can lead to significantly better patient outcomes by avoiding ineffective therapies and reducing unnecessary healthcare costs.

Biomarker testing is a powerful tool in precision medicine. Dr. Herdee Luna, president of the Philippine s ociety of o ncologists (P so) and pathologist Dr. Jasper Andal said that through biomarker testing, doctors can look for genes, proteins, and other substances that may provide crucial information about how one’s cancer behaves. By analyzing these markers, doctors can make informed decisions about personalized treatment plans, potentially including targeted therapies or immunotherapies.

Dr. Luna and Dr. Andal served as resource speakers at a health forum launching healthcare company M s D’s “Hit the Mark” campaign on March 21, 2024. The campaign aims to raise awareness on the value of lung panel testing (biomarker test focused on lung cancer) and personalized treatment to achieve better patient outcomes.

Championing equitable access TH e “Hit the Mark” campaign unites patient groups, medical societies, laboratories, and healthcare companies to champion equitable access to biomarker testing and other innovative treatment options for lung cancer patients in the Philippines.

Health experts agree that lung cancer treatment benefits greatly from biomarker testing. i n the Philippines, lung cancer is the top killer among cancers, which remains as the second leading cause of death. The high smoking rate in the country, with nearly a quarter of the population aged 15 and above lighting up, is a significant contributor to the nation’s alarming lung cancer statistics.

Thanks to advances in early detection, innovative therapies, and increased understanding that lung

cancer treatment is not “one size fits all,” lung cancer care has improved dramatically over the past decade.

However, in the Philippines, many cancer patients may still potentially miss the appropriate treatment, probably foregoing greater survival and quality of life opportunities.

Dr. Luna advised lung cancer patients to inquire about biomarker tests and other details of the disease from their healthcare providers. “Ask about what additional tests that you need to undergo. The doctors will guide you if it will be a tissue-based analysis or blood test analysis and so on. Ask your doctor regarding all possible treatment options.”

“As we have mentioned, each patient is unique so the management is also different from another patient. Know more information about your tumor, its stage, sequencing of your treatment, to optimizing your health outcomes,” said Dr. Luna.

Accessible biomarker tests for lung cancer

Ano TH er guest speaker, Melissa o ngsue-Lee, Vice President of s ales and Marketing at Hi-Precision Diagnostics (HPD), discussed how to make nationwide coverage for cancer testing possible through HPD clinics. For the first time, three biomarkers—PD-L1, e GF r , and ALK—in a lung panel test have been put together for the benefit of the patient.

“This is the first time that we are unifying these three important

biomarkers, so that patients can get the result as quickly as possible and get treated as soon as possible,” said o ngsue-Lee.

Previously, patients had to undergo separate tests for each of these three biomarkers.

s tarting April 1, we will be distributing the forms to our doctors and partners and they can just submit it to any HP [Hi-Precision] branch near their locations and we’ll do the test for them.”

“The great news here is the test for the three biomarkers are actually free, you just have to go to your doctor, get the form, then go to HP and have yourself tested,” shared o ngsue-Lee.

Multi-stakeholder collaboration s H e added that this multi-stakeholder collaboration aims to bridge the gap between the hassle of testing and the long wait times for results.

This initiative likewise addresses some of the barriers that prevent patients from benefiting from biomarker-driven cancer treatments such as sequential or no biomarker testing, lack of funding, and low awareness.

“The goal here is for people to take the test, ang mahirap kasi makita pa lang ang presyo ayaw na nila. The price alone can hinder them from taking the test so now it’s accessible for all,” said o ngsue-Lee.

“Hit the Mark” aims that soon, more partner laboratories and the inclusion of more biomarkers will

TESDA urges training institutions to register, offer aesthetic services training programs

By Roderick L. Abad Contributor

seein G the big potential in the beauty and wellness industry here and abroad, the Technical e ducation and s kills Development Authority (T es DA) is calling for further capacity building in this sector that will not only open business and employment opportunities, but also bring aesthetic services to more people.

“The increasing demand and standards for aesthetic and beauty care services presents a great opportunity for Filipino workers and entrepreneurs to capitalize on the trend,” said s ecretary suharto T. Mangudadatu, director general of T esDA.

Leveraging on this, the agency created last year the competency benchmarks in Aesthetic s ervices Level iii , according to him.

OUR l ady of l ourdes Hospital successfully hosted the second b rainiac inter-school quiz bowl and robotics challenge at Philippine Science High School on March 16, 2024. Over 738 students from 81 schools across the n ational Capital Region joined the finals of the academic competition for a chance at the P352,000 prize pool. a fter a day filled with examinations, contests, and panel defenses, Manuel g a raullo High School, Philippine Sci -

ultimately help all eligible patients get tested and potentially benefit from precision medicine.

Also present during the launch was e ngr. e mer r ojas, a laryngeal cancer survivor and president of the n ew Vois Association of the Philippines ( n VAP) which is a cancer prevention, person with disabilities (PWD), and tobacco control advocacy group. r ojas emphasized the need for the full implementation of the n ational i ntegrated c ancer c ontrol Act ( nicc A) and the adequate funding of the c ancer Assistance Fund (c AF) so that more patients can benefit from accessible diagnostic and laboratory services.

Driving equity for testing

Gi V en the complexity of the precision medicine landscape, only an intersectoral multi-stakeholder approach including patients as partners can unlock and realize the potential of precision medicine for patients who could benefit.

FT3 e xecutive Director Helena Harnik explained the From Testing to Targeted Treatments (FT3) Program during the launch through a video message. FT3 is a not for profit, open and global community of practice dedicated to better patient outcomes by bringing to life the potential of personalized healthcare.

As a collaborative program, FT3 is trying to identify potential collaborative solutions and replicable global best practices to enable more equitable access to precision medicine for those who could benefit.

As a global convenor, FT3 is working towards local impact. To implement locally, FT3 brings these global learnings and resources to support champions who can apply them to the local context.

After launching its first two pilots in s pain and Hungary last year, FT3 is embarking on an important journey with the launch of the Philippines pilot program for cancer care. Dedicated to better patient experiences, this initiative works to overcome obstacles that prevent people from accessing personalized healthcare.

Unilab Foundation (UlF) recently launched the Unilab Center for Health Policy (UCHP), a venue for stakeholders to examine health policy issues.

“UCHP is intended to provide a platform for policy makers, the private sector, implementors and other concerned stakeholders, at the national and local levels, to discuss, distill and dissect health policy issues,” Unilab Foundation President Clinton Campos Hess said.

With a fragmented healthcare landscape, the Philippines grapples with obstacles that hinder the upliftment of marginalized Filipinos.

Out-of-pocket expenses, uneven distribution of human resources, and limited access are among the persistent challenges that the newly established UCHP aims to tackle.

Collective responsibility

Re CO gnizing the monumental task of achieving universal health care, UCHP emphasizes a collective responsibility shared by the government and private sectors.

“UCHP does not presume that it can help solve all the issues at hand. i t is a modest attempt to bring together like-minded individuals and institutions desirous of nourishing our nation’s health care system. i t is premised on government and the private sector working together,” Campos Hess explained.

“UCHP seeks to spawn ideas anchored on research and grounded on experience. Such an approach will help forge the appropriate interventions to the exigent health concerns of access, equity, quality, service delivery, UHC implementation, and the interphase of health with technology,” he added. UCHP has an a dvisory Council, which will aid in crafting policy agendas and in ensuring the meticulous oversight of project implementation. t is chaired by former Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Dr. e nrique T. Ona and includes Philippine Medical a ssociation President Dr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag, former University of the Philippines School of e conomics Dean Dr. Orville Jose C. Solon, former DOH Undersecretary Dr. leopoldo J. Vega, and ateneo De Manila School of Medicine and Public Health Founding a ssociate Dean Dr. Maria e ufemia C. Yap.

Priority areas

UCHP has identified four priority areas that will become the focus of its initial policy recommendations.

The first one revolves around the direction of the n ational Health a ccounts from 1991 to 2022, wherein the UCHP embarks on

a sonorous analysis of the data, offering a time-series impact analysis of the reforms. a n ongoing project, the initial report will be presented in May 2024.

UCHP has also started the ball rolling on its study on the governance of provider payment mechanisms. a s complex as the transition to a “performance-driven, prospective system” is as mandated by the UHC law, the UCHP proposes to examine global best practices to craft a governance framework tailored to the Philippines. The initial report, also slated for May 2024, aims to enhance the credibility, transparency, and accountability of provider payments.

The third priority area is the initiative to develop a manual of operations in implementing the Philippine Health i nsurance Corporations’s (PhilHealth) Outpatient b enefit Package called Konsulta. The manual aims to fill the gaps in Konsulta’s expansion, covering accreditation, organizational aspects, membership, benefits availment, financial management, reporting, and monitoring. The first draft of the manual is expected to be finished at end of May 2024. This is particularly important as the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth continue to expand the benefits being covered by Konsulta. The manual will be of particular use to health care providers, lg Us and covered members. l astly, UCHP aims to create a framework for a referral system in the over 6,000 geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (gi Da) in the Philippines, where access to health services is a persistent challenge. The UCHP’s fourth project aims to come up with models for residents of a gi Da access to a continuum of care on a sustainable basis. b y assessing both the demand and supply sides, the UCHP endeavors to develop a comprehensive framework that considers inputs, processes, and minimum standards. With a draft manual due by May 2024, the study aspires to be a blueprint for improving healthcare accessibility in marginalized areas.

“Together, let us pursue our shared vision where health is not determined by income level, geographic location or social status. Together, let us work to shape a healthier and more equitable future,” Campos Hess added.

UCHP was formally launched on March 20, 2024 at The Peninsula Manila witnessed by officials of the DOH, PhilHealth, non-government organizations such as US ai D and J i C a , civil society, public and private hospitals, members of the Diplomatic Corp, development partners like the a sian Development b ank, health care industry organizations, local government executives, patient groups, academe and health providers.

Beauty and wellness program

B ec AU se quality and safety are paramount in providing beauty and wellness services, T es DA’s  Aesthetic s ervices Level iii qualification will teach trainees advanced facial treatment, chemical skin peel -

“T es DA, with its commitment to providing quality technical education, has developed these competency standards with the industry to increase the country’s capability to provide quality training and produce workers with the necessary skills to thrive in the field of aesthetic services,” he noted. The T es DA chief, likewise, urged the country’s training hubs to start catering training programs on the qualification. “ i encourage training centers to use these standards as the bases in offering their Aesthetic s ervices Level iii courses. This industry is among the emerging contributors to economies worldwide,” he pointed out. “By offering these courses we are not only supporting the individual growth of our kababayans but we are also strengthening an industry that can generate more jobs, stimulate innovation, and attract investments,” he added.

ence High School, Cielito z amora Senior High School, and Marikina

healthcare in the Philippines.

TH e Philippine Health i nsurance Corporation (PhilHealth) officially awarded Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) as a designated healthcare facility for the Coronary a rtery b ypass g raft (C abg ) z- b enefit Package. This gives patients an expanded access to quality and affordable cardiac care for PhilHealth as the hospital becomes the 11th facility in the n ational Capital Region to offer the package.

The C abg z- b enefit Package provides financial assistance of up to P550,000 to eligible PhilHealth members undergoing C abg surgery, a complex procedure to treat blocked coronary arteries. This means that patients can now expect to have more options in receiving expert cardiac care and high-quality treatment while significantly minimizing worries about medical expenses.

Healthier life

PH il H ealTH Vice President for n CR Regional Of -

fice Dr. b ernadette C. l ico said that Filipinos affected by the high cost of cardiac healthcare need not fight the disease alone as both PhilHealth and Cardinal Santos Medical Center offer the treatment and hope to a healthier life.

CSMC President and CeO Mr. Raul Pagdanganan remarked that this development affords more opportunities for Filipinos to access state-of-the-art facilities to perform the required and life-saving procedures included in the package so they can return to their productive and normal lives again.

CSMC is one of the few hospitals in the country that is equipped with a coronary flowmeter, a device that helps cardiothoracic surgeons measure the blood flow in the grafts to make sure that the patient leaves the operating room with a working bypass graft.

For more information about Cardinal Santos Medical Center’s C abg z- b enefit Package, visit the Cardiovascular i nstitute at the g round Floor, Main Hospital building or call (02) 8727-0001 ext. 4218.

AFTER its successful launch last year, it is time to experience the all-electric BYD Atto 3 Crossover for a drive. Not just any out-of-town drive, but, all the way to Baguio, to prove that range anxiety is not an issue.

So, BYD Philippines recently hosted a drive event for select media members to drive the allelectric crossover to the country’s summer capital. Commissioned were eight brand-new Atto 3 Premium top-spec variants. We drove over 400 kilometers to and from various road conditions and put the Atto 3 to the demanding task, without worrying about battery charge level.

e-Platform 3.0

BUT first, let us talk about the design and platform. The exterior look utters a sporty and aerodynamic design, emphasized by the headlights, echoing with the continuous taillights, having a wider beam of light exposure, for better illumination. The frame silhouette has an expressive upward-slopping waistline, complementing the selection of dynamic alloy wheels. Platform-wise, the all-new BYD e-Platform 3.0 was utilized—a technology designed exclusively for pure electric vehicles. Giving full play to the advantages of intelligence, efficiency, safety, and aesthetics, BYD claims that the e-Platform 3.0 aims to promote NEVs’ performance in safety and low-temperature driving range as well as improve intelligent driving experiences, to build more efficient and safer new intelligent EVs.

Moreover, the Atto 3 is fitted with the world’s first mass-produced 8-in-1 electric powertrain. The design dramatically optimizes space utilization and energy efficiency by incorporating the VCU, BMS, MCU, PDU, DC-DC controller,

onboard charger, drive motor, and transmission. Apart from the allnew BYD e-Platform 3.0, the Atto 3 is also fitted and powered by BYD’s proprietary lithium iron phosphate (LFP) Blade Battery. With this battery technology, up to 480km range is achievable.

Fit for fun

EVERYTHING inside is about uniqueness. But the deal is the

cabin’s blissful environment, free from engine vibration and sound. Its user-friendly functions and playful interior give a unique and distinctive style. The vibrant, streamlined central console highlights the first-in-class 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment display. Here, we accessed all the controls, modes, and functions, basically everything about the vehicle itself, except for some

physical buttons clustered near the gear shifter to switch on the fly.

As if the idea of having a rotating display panel is not interesting enough, even the driver’s instrument panel is unified with the steering section. Whenever the helm is adjusted, so is the panel screen. The display size is enough for the driver to see information through the steering wheel. Another plus factor is the contoured seats, particularly the front ones. The bolsters, contoured all over provided the needed comfort from the long ride and drive. Even the combination of synthetic materials utilized is visually pleasing and soft to the touch.

But perhaps one of the most impressive elements is the very low, almost zero, level of road noise and harshness inside. The usual boring freeway ride became otherwise for passengers and even more relaxing for the driver. The even weight distribution also became a factor in terms of a stable ride with minimal bounces, particularly at the back.

Green power and agility

MOTIVATION comes from an electric traction motor generating over 200 hp and 310 N-m of instantaneous torque. Trust us, we felt every bit of it while pressing the accelerator pedal. The absence of any sound associated with the acceleration was uncanny, at times, but fun! But, kilometers after, it sunk in—it was all-electric, after

Like watching the NBA without LeBron James; RSA listens

Trecognizes Campi’s show as the official motor show in the Philippines,” said a rabid automotive observer.

Another said: “When it started, MIAS was considered a trade show so it was meant mainly for dealers or traders.  Over time, distributors came in who wanted merely to use MIAS to promote sales.”

Basketball Association (NBA) without its top draw, LeBron James. Half of the fun is missed— sorely.

RSA listens

WHO said Ramon S. Ang (RSA) doesn’t listen to public opinion?

all. But like any system drawn by power, whether electric or fuel, pushing the throttle means more electric consumption. While freeway runs were a walk in the park, the ascents and winding roads proved to be the vehicle’s playground. Again, combining pure electric power and balanced weight distribution was an advantage, especially in these road conditions and situations. Imagine having an instantaneous torque registration at your disposal, plus impressive handling. Excellent form is achieved with zero body rolls, at best. Even the steering feedback, on curves, enabled the vehicle to maneuver effortlessly.

Range anxiety-free, really IN terms of charging, the vehicle

uses a free CCS2 (AKA Type II) charging system rated at 7kW. Upon reaching the end of the freeway in La Union, we stopped over at a Shell station to charge up the battery. At 43 percent current state of charge, we opted for a quick top-up using the 22 kW fast charger. After a few minutes, it bumped the level to 52 percent. In over 200 kilometers traveled the theoretical efficiency rating was so far at 15.3 kWh/100 km in about three hours, nonstop.

Interestingly, other groups even opted not to charge with over 40 percent battery level. Of course, this was already validated by the organizers during their initial ocular—anything not less than that level will still make it to Baguio.

After over 50 kilometers of ascents, bends, and overtaking, we reached the Forest Lodge in Camp John Hay. Despite the constant push to catch up with lost time, the remaining battery charge level was still at 17 percent. Not bad, at all.

Regenerative wonder

LEAVING Baguio, we took the Asin route. It was to capitalize on the series of steep bends to activate the regenerative braking and earn back that lost charge.

Starting with over 60 percent battery charge level, we hit it off with swift acceleration. By the time we reached the descents, all we did was brake at exact points and let the momentum do the regenerative braking. Surprisingly, the system quickly started earning back lost charge levels.

Planning the route is the key to maximizing the full battery charge level. More importantly, to know exactly where and when to use the regenerative process to earn back some lost battery juice.

Safety hallmark

THE Atto 3 Premium (up to 480 km range) variant comes standard with Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and front/side curtain airbags, among others.

Exclusive to the top-spec is the ADAS Package with Stop & Go Full Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC-S&G), Automatic Emergency Braking System (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Emergency Lane Keeping Assist (ELKA).

cost RSA nearly P17 billion to finish it in two-to-three years’ time.

Here’s a glass to reason.

But did the aborted venture cause a dent on RSA’s penchant to build highways in his aggressive mission to connect towns, cities and provinces to spur economic growth and nation-building?

Not at all.

generate jobs for the townsfolk this side of llocandia.

HE MIAS (Manila International Motor Show) will unfurl its 19th staging in a little while, with the usual promise of

or so are Chinese brands. So, has “Chinafication” in motoring arrived in the country?

have

automotive show—the

Meanwhile, many auto aficionados are asking anew:  Why is Toyota, the world’s No. 1 car maker, absent again in the MIAS? “I think the simple reason is that as a Campi (Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc.) member, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) only

A TMP top gun said:  “A real motor show costs a lot so two shows in one year is difficult to support.  Toyota spreads its budget over a wide spectrum of media/sponsorships.  Others focus on sales events and social media.  TMP still values media ads [print/broadcast].”

So there.

But painful as it may seem, a motor show without Toyota (Honda is also absent) is like watching the US’s National

The pro-people billionaire, in a move deemed highly admirable by his peers and rivals alike, has scrapped the Pasig River Expressway (Parex) to obey public clamor calling the 19.37-kilometer project as potentially harmful to Mother Nature, specifically the waterway’s ecosystem.

The planned six-lane road network will cover, literally, the Pasig River from west to east of the metropolis, and was designed to decongest traffic in that southeastern board of the city.  It would have

For, hardly has the happy noise of the Parex junking had died down, in comes RSA again breaking ground for the 76.8-km Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEx) from Binalonan to the provincial capital of Lingayen via Manaoag.

The multi-billion joint project between RSA and the Pangasinan government headed by Gov. Ramon V. Guico III will drastically cut travel time by more than one hour.

Targeted to be completed between 2026-2027, the PLEx will considerably trigger giant economic strides in the region and

“Pangasinan has always had a special spot in my heart and I enjoy helping its people gain progress and stability,” said RSA, whose landmark TPLEx (Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway) has consistently made the folk reap the benefits of financial progression.  I should know.  I am a true-blue Pangasinense.

PEE STOP Andrea Vitug says HEAT (Honda Emergency Assistance Team) will offer free assistance to motorists through Honda’s 22 dealerships nationwide from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday, March 31. Cheers!…From Allana Faith Rufo, this: Discounts/ benefits of 111k for Hi-Lux, 143k for Vios, 80k for Corolla Cross and 145k for Innova on all Toyota dealerships nationwide. Hurry! Stocks limited…Happy Easter!

INSIDE the “Fit for Fun” cabin

CHARGING demonstration at Shell station in Rosario, La Union

THE BYD Atto 3 Premium in radiant Surf Blue color made it to Baguio, effortlessly.