LONG SHADOW OF MARAWI SIEGE
FARHANA HAJI HASSAN fled Marawi City in 2017 when the ISIS-linked Maute Group wreaked havoc for five months and intense gunfights broke out between government forces and terrorists.
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
Currency traders bet on market volatility returning with Trump
By Alice Atkins & Vassilis Karamanis | Bloomberg
CURRENCY traders are betting that Donald Trump’s policy agenda is about to jumpstart volatility in the $7.5 trillion-aday foreign exchange market.
A fter years of benign moves, a gauge of one-year volatility on the euro-dollar exchange rate surged after the election. Hedge funds are scooping up options contracts that pay out if currency swings increase and strategists have dramatically revised their currency forecasts.
W hile it’s not yet clear how quickly Trump will implement policies such as trade tariffs that could cause significant pain to currencies like the euro, investors are pretty certain that unpredictability will be a major feature of his term in office. There’s also the unknown factor of how countries will respond to Trump’s measures and what impact those countermeasures will have on markets.
“It’s an environment where FX becomes particularly interesting,” said Julian Weiss, head of G-10 vanilla FX options at Bank of America, adding that demand for longerterm products has picked up. “Any hedge fund across the globe, even if they have an equity focus, all of a sudden we’re seeing FX exposure being put on.”
The trend marks a sharp turnaround from the past few years when central banks raising and then cutting interest rates in tandem ushered
in a period of extreme calm. Now, with Trump’s America First policies expected to fuel inflation at home, traders expect a widening policy gulf between the Federal Reserve and its peers, which will break major currency pairs like the euro-dollar out of their tightest range in years.
Banks have slashed their forecasts for the currency pair in the wake of the US election, anticipating a slide toward parity.
We would expect Trump’s likely policies to create greater
“Currencies with the greatest perceived exposure to tariffs and Trump’s policies will continue to be favored from a volatility perspective,” said Henry Drysdale, co-head of currency options trading at NatWest. Of course there’s a risk that much of the expected turbulence gets so baked in to market pricing in the run up to Trump’s inauguration that swings in the longer term turn out to be softer than expected. That’s broadly what happened during Trump’s last presidency, partly because policies like trade tariffs ended up taking longer than expected to be implemented.
This time round, Republican control of the House and the Senate may mean that policies get implemented harder and faster. Then there’s the wild card of day-to-day currency moves in response to regular Tweets from the president, a state of affairs that traders remember all too well from his last term in office.
“2025 will be a year of volatility and uncertainty,” said Shahab Jalinoos, global head of currency research at UBS. “We don’t yet know what till transpire under Trump and there are so many crosscurrents.”
Long shadow of Marawi Siege
been approved, according to the board. The deadline for filing was July 3.
A s of November 15, the board touted in a press release that it has disbursed more than P1.8 billion to approved claimants since its establishment in 2022.
Republic Act (RA) 11696, or the “Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act of 2022,” was signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte two months before stepping down from office.
It offers tax-free monetary compensation for Marawi residents whose residential, cultural, or commercial properties were destroyed by the five-month clash, which began in May 2017 and ended in October that year.
The board will cease to exist in 2028.
A c laimant who has provided “substantial” evidence of property ownership would receive funds depending on the size of the structure and the materials needed for repairs.
The process of approving claims and disbursing money has been a slog, but Dandamun-Latiph, in an interview with Al Jazeera in August, asserted that the board needed to review the merits of each application or else “this office will fail.”
Fixing loopholes
THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has allocated P1.154 billion for the Marawi Compensation Board this 2025, which is still up for approval in the Senate. Still, it will not be enough for
the payout of July claimants, according to Dandamun-Latiph. This is why the board is considering requesting P3 billion worth of “unprogrammed funds” to replenish its coffers.
Per DBM, unprogrammed funds are “standby funds outside the approved government fiscal program” used for unforeseen expenses. The term has generated controversy in recent months after the government transferred excess funds from PhilHealth to unprogrammed appropriations.
Other issues have also surfaced during the budget hearing, such as overlapping claims.
A s stipulated by the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act, residents whose homes were demolished to clear out unexploded ordnance are not eligible to file for claims. Instead, they should follow the process set forth by the Rightof-Way Act (RA 10752).
“ We have to disaggregate all of these things so that we can avoid overlapping claims,” Nasser Pangandaman Sr., presidential adviser for Marawi rehabilitation, told senators. “This should be clarified because there may be legal repercussions in the future.”
They may be paying for claims that should not be paid,” he added.
The compensation law treats the demolition of properties to clear out undetonated explosives as a “national government project.”
In response to Pangandaman, Majority Leader Francis Tolentino said amendments to the Rightof-Way Act are now under way to make it easier for affected residents to get their claims.
The reelectionist senator stressed that, “it is now incumbent
upon you to get hold of a copy of the proposed law amending the Rightof-Way Act and perhaps harmonize it with what is happening on the ground insofar as the Marawi Rehabilitation is concerned so that it is exempted.”
“If not,” he added, “it will be different because it cannot be treated differently. We will make this a special case.”
The DBM also warned of “fiscal implications” if amendments sought to the compensation law will be applied retroactively.
Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa filed Senate Bill 2828 this September to change how the board will compute the amount of claim, from fair market value to “value of the total area per story of the structures or real properties equivalent to replacement or repair cost.”
The bill, if passed, would include Brgy. Bubonga Marawi among “other affected areas” where its residents could also file for compensation.
In May this year, a group of residents protested at Rizal Park in Marawi to denounce what they alleged was the board’s effort to slash compensation by deducting the depreciation cost to lower a property’s market value.
For the board, assessing replacement costs over fair market value would be much easier—and more favorable for Marawi residents. The replacement cost methodology will be easier for us and our work will be faster,” Dandamun-Latiph said. “If we take the fair market value...the payment will be smaller because of depreciation.”
PRESIDENT-ELECT Donald Trump gestures after speaking during an America First Policy Institute gala at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Thursday, November 14, 2024, in Palm Beach, Florida. AP/ALEX BRANDON
Editor: Angel R. Calso
The World
Sunday, November 24, 2024 A3
Donald Trump puts premium on loyalty, focuses on ‘America First’ policies in cabinet selections
By Bloomberg News
RESIDENT-ELECT Donald
PTrump is stocking his cabinet with people he wants to carry out his “America First” policies on the border, trade, national security, the economy and more.
Trump has put a premium on loyalty with his picks, selecting lawmakers and aides who defended him as he navigated the fallout from the January 6, 2021, attempted insurrection and multiple criminal trials.
He’s also prioritized those who have expressed an eagerness to hit the ground running as he prepares an expected flurry of executive actions and legislative proposals to quickly implement his agenda and roll back President Joe Biden’s policies. More choices are expected to be announced in the coming days—a big opening remains at Treasury—with Trump hoping to get as many nominees that require Senate confirmation in place ahead of his inauguration.
Meanwhile, one controversial pick has already withdrawn from consideration: Matt Gaetz, who had announced his intention to resign from Congress when Trump named him as his pick for attorney general earlier this month. He faced an uphill battle to be approved on the Hill amid allegations of sexual misconduct. He has continued to deny any wrongdoing, while the president-elect applauded his decision to avoid being a lingering distraction to the incoming administration.
Here’s a look at some of the people Trump has lined up so far:
Pam Bondi, Attorney General TRUMP’S new pick to lead the Department of Justice he’s vowed to overhaul is another longtime ally who publicly championed his baseless claims of voter fraud in 2020. In his first administration, Bondi worked out of the White House assisting in communications related to his first impeachment trial. She also worked on an opioid and drug abuse commission in Trump’s first term. As Florida’s attorney general, Bondi earned national attention for her efforts to overturn the Affordable Care Act and provisions banning health insurance companies from charging more to customers with preexisting conditions.
Linda McMahon, Education Secretary MCMAHON led the Small Business Administration from 2017-2019 during Trump’s first term, and stayed close to him afterwards, co-leading his transition team this year. She made her wealth as cofounder and chief executive officer of World Wrestling Entertainment. If confirmed for this latest post, McMahon will run a cabinet-level agency with a $114 billion budget that Trump and many of his allies say they’d like to see abolished, leaving its key responsibilities to the states. Such a move would require congressional approval.
Howard Lutnick, Commerce
Secretary
AS the tussle over who gets to head the Treasury Department wears on, one of the post’s contenders was assigned to another economic role, with Trump planning to install his transition co-chair Lutnick to the agency in charge of promoting US businesses and supporting economic growth.
The chairman and CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald LP is a Wall Street pick who would be expected to carry out policy around Trump’s avowed
favorite word—“tariffs”—and continue to tout a populist economic agenda. Among his comments berating the Biden administration on the campaign trail for Trump, Lutnick has said high inflation is “the meanest thing you can ever do to your people.” Trump also signaled Lutnick could have outsize responsibility for the office of US Trade Representative—typically filled by a separate appointment.
Sean Duffy, Transportation Secretary
EX-CONGRESSMAN and television personality Sean Duffy is set to be Trump’s point person when it comes to decisions about America’s transportation infrastructure, including the expansion and upgrading of highways, rail networks and airports. The former Wisconsin lawmaker is the second Fox News contributor Trump has tapped for a cabinet post. He’ll have to navigate the tricky issue of the presidentelect’s criticism of the electric vehicle industry, a focus of Biden’s administration, with the backing Trump has received from Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk.
Chris Wright, Energy Secretary A COLORADO-BASED oil and natural gas fracking services executive and Washington outsider, Chris Wright is Trump’s pick to lead the Energy Department. As CEO of Liberty Energy Inc., Wright has been a vocal proponent of fossil fuels and his company published a paper this year concluding there is “no climate crisis.” He is credited by Trump for being a “pioneer” of the “American Shale Revolution” and if confirmed, Wright would also sit on the newly formed National Energy Council. While the department’s mission includes helping to maintain the nation’s nuclear warheads, studying supercomputers and maintaining the US’s several hundred millionbarrel stockpile of crude oil, Wright can be expected to push Trump’s over-arching mission to boost domestic energy production.
Doug Collins, Secretary of Veterans Affairs
FORMER Georgia Congressman Doug Collins got Trump’s nod to run Veterans Affairs, the secondlargest federal government department with more than 400,000 employees tasked with providing health care and other assistance to military veterans and their families. Collins, who left Congress in 2021, would preside over sprawling operations—the department is one of the biggest consumers of medical equipment in the world. He’d also have to ensure the families get adequate support, especially in the wake of a 2014 scandal in which secret wait lists at VA hospitals shattered confidence in the system just as Iraq and Afghanistan veterans were needing fresh aid.
Doug Burgum, Secretary of Interior
NORTH Dakota Governor Doug Burgum is Trump’s pick to run the Interior Department, which oversees energy development, grazing and other activities on some 500 million acres of public land, as well as US federal waters. That includes national parks such as Yellowstone and the Everglades. The 68-year-old raised his profile by running for the Republican nomination, but dropped out early and backed Trump. If confirmed, Burgum would likely be responsible for ramping up the sale of oil and gas leases, including in the Gulf of Mexico, which had been constrained
under the Biden administration.
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Health & Human Services Secretary THE selection of Kennedy, a vocal vaccine skeptic, drew some worries for what it would mean for public health policy, and the news sent vaccine-makers’ stocks for a plunge. The Democrat-turnedindependent—who suspended his presidential candidacy in favor of Trump—has long fielded criticism for his controversial comments on vaccines and the Covid-19 pandemic. The son of former Senator Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of former President John F. Kennedy became a public face in recent months for Trump’s call to “Make America Healthy Again.” In the final days of his campaign, Trump said he would let Kennedy “go wild” with health policy in his administration.
Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence FORMER US Representative and one-time Democrat Gabbard got Trump’s nod to be his head of the office that overseas the country’s 17 intelligence agencies. In Gabbard, Trump is making another unorthodox pick, elevating a loyalist and skeptic of support for Ukraine. Gabbard is a veteran of the Iraq War and continues to serve as an officer in the Army Reserve. She’s another voice backing Trump’s “peace through strength” strategy, having advocated for fewer deployments of US troops abroad.
Pete Hegseth, Defense Secretary
An Army veteran and Fox News personality, Hegseth would oversee the US military amid Russia’s continuing war in Ukraine, conflicts raging across the Middle East and heightened tensions with China around Taiwan and the South China Sea. While he’s a loyalist, the 44-year-old Hegseth has little experience managing a bureaucracy like the Defense Department, with its 770,000 employees and 2 million men and women in uniform. Its budget is more than $840 billion, and its finances are so complicated it’s never successfully completed an audit.
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, Government Efficiency
TRUMP turned to his richest supporter and a former primary opponent to oversee what he calls the “Department of Government Efficiency” whose acronym, DOGE, is the same as a popular meme coin that Musk has promoted online. While “department” suggests a government agency, it’s more likely to be a presidential commission that looks at ways to cut spending. Musk—whose companies receive billions in federal contracts—at one point in the campaign suggested that $2 trillion in government outlays could be slashed from the budget.
John Ratcliffe, Central Intelligence Agency
Trump is turning to his former director of national intelligence, John Ratcliffe, to lead the CIA. The 59-year-old ex-congressman was a fierce defender of Trump during his first impeachment before winning Senate confirmation to oversee the intelligence services in 2020. Assuming he wins confirmation this time around, Ratcliffe is expected to bring a sharp focus on countering national security threats and foreign adversaries such as China and Iran to the role.
Marco Rubio, Secretary of State RUBIO is a one-time rival of the president-elect who later became one of his biggest supporters in the Senate. He’s also a longtime critic of China, and technically barred from entering the country under retaliatory sanctions. Rubio has defended Trump’s position to bring a swift end to Russia’s war in Ukraine, calling for talks that could result in Kyiv giving up occupied territory.
Mike Waltz, National Security Advisor
WALTZ is a former Army Green Beret and combat veteran of Afghanistan. As chairman of the House Armed Services Committee’s readiness panel, he criticized the Pentagon over teaching Critical Race Theory at military institutions and an overpriced bag of metal bushings for the Air Force, among other objections. Waltz has written that he views China as a “greater threat” to the US than any other nation.
Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Secretary SOUTH Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, once a potential VP pick for Trump, is now his choice to lead the Homeland Security De -
partment. Noem became the subject of intense criticism after she admitted in her book to shooting her own 14-month-old dog. Front a nd center for the 52-year-old in her expected new role will be implementing Trump’s policies on immigration, including his pledge to carry out mass deportations of undocumented migrants.
Elise Stefanik, UN Ambassador TRUMP has described Stefanik as “an incredibly strong, tough, and smart America First fighter.” Stefanik was among the House Republicans who voted against certifying Biden’s 2020 victory over Trump and was the first House member to endorse him in this third White House bid.
Tom Homan, border czar
THE man Trump has chosen to put “in charge of all Deportation of Illegal Aliens back to their Country of Origin” was the public face of the “zero tolerance” immigration policies during the Republican’s first term. That episode broke with the practice of keeping families together during detentions and deportations, resulting in thousands of undocumented migrant children getting separated from
family members and drawing widespread backlash.
Lee Zeldin, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator
THE former New York congressman was a member of Trump’s impeachment defense team and a vocal supporter in the aftermath of the January 6 riots. His environmental credentials are less robust, though he worked on Capitol Hill to protect the Long Island Sound from dredge dumping. Zeldin said he will seek to roll back regulations preventing energy development in the role, while also seeking to protect the air and water.
Susie Wiles, White House Chief of Staff
THE Republican political operative brought stability, order and financial discipline to a campaign whose 2016 and 2020 iterations were far more volatile. She’s set to become the first woman tapped to become chief of staff and will likely help set strategy for Trump’s first 100 days in office. With assistance from Kevin Dharmawan, Justin Sink, Daniel Flatley, Ramsey Al-Rikabi, Meghashyam Mali, Skylar Woodhouse, John Harney and Romy Varghese/Bloomberg
Bitcoin rally nears historic $100,000 mark amid speculation on Trump’s crypto-friendly policies
By Wyatte Grantham-Philips Ap Business Writer
NEW YORK—Bitcoin topped $98,000 for the first time Thursday, extending a streak of record after record highs since the US presidential election. The cryptocurrency has rocketed more than 40 percent in just two weeks.
Now, bitcoin is at the doorstep of $100,000, just two years after dropping below $17,000 following the collapse of crypto exchange FTX. The recent, dramatic rally arrives as industry players expect the incoming Trump administration to bring a more “crypto-friendly” approach toward regulating the digital currency.
Bitcoin traded as high as $98,349 early Thursday, according to CoinDesk, and was slightly below that level at 1:25 p.m. ET. As with everything in the volatile cryptoverse, the future is impossible to know. And while some are bullish, other experts continue to warn of investment risks. Here’s what you need to know. Back up. What is cryptocurrency again?
CRYPTOCURRENCY has been around for a while now. But, chances are, you’ve heard about it more and more over the last few years.
In basic terms, cryptocurrency is digital money. This kind of cur -
rency is designed to work through an online network without a central authority—meaning it’s typically not backed by any government or banking institution—and transactions get recorded with technology called a blockchain. Bitcoin is the largest and oldest cryptocurrency, although other assets like ethereum, tether and dogecoin have also gained popularity over the years. Some investors see cryptocurrency as a “digital alternative” to traditional money— but it can be very volatile, with its price reliant on larger market conditions.
Why is bitcoin soaring?
A LOT of the recent action has to do with the outcome of the US presidential election. Crypto industry players have welcomed Trump’s victory, in hopes that he would be able to push through legislative and regulatory changes that they’ve long lobbied for—which, generally speaking, aim for an increased sense of legitimacy without too much red tape.
Trump, who was once a crypto skeptic, recently pledged to make the US “the crypto capital of the planet” and create a “strategic reserve” of bitcoin. His campaign accepted donations in cryptocurrency and he courted fans at a bitcoin conference in July. He also launched World Liberty Financial, a new venture with family members to trade cryptocurrencies.
How of this will actually pan out—and whether or not Trump will successfully act quickly on these promises—has yet to be seen.
“This is not necessarily a shortterm story, it’s likely a much longer-term story,” Citi macro strategist David Glass told The Associated Press last week. “And there is the question of how quickly can US crypto policy make a serious impact on (wider adoption).”
Adam Morgan McCarthy, a research analyst at Kaiko, thinks the industry is craving “just some sort of clarity.” Much of the approach to regulating crypto in the past has been “enforcement based,” he notes, which has been helpful in weeding out some bad actors— but legislation might fill in other key gaps.
Gary Gensler, who as head of the Securities and Exchange Commission under President Joe Biden has led a US government’s crackdown on the crypto industry, penalized a number of crypto companies for violating securities laws. Gensler announced Thursday that he would step down as SEC chair on Jan. 20, Inauguration Day.
Despite crypto’s recent excitement around Trump, McCarthy said that 2024 has already been
Desperation in Gaza: Many families
By Wafaa Shurafa & Fatma Khaled
The Associated Press
DEIR AL-BALAH, The Gaza Strip—Yasmin Eid coughs and covers her face, cooking a small pot of lentils over a fire fed with twigs and scrap paper in the tent she shares with her husband and four young daughters in the Gaza Strip.
It was their only meal Wednesday—it was all they could afford.
“My girls suck on their thumbs because of how hungry they are, and I pat their backs until they sleep,” she said.
After being displaced five times, the Eids reside in central Gaza, where aid groups have relatively more access than in the north, which has been largely isolated and heavily destroyed since Israel began waging a renewed offensive against the militant group Hamas in early October. But nearly everyone in Gaza is going hungry these days. In the north experts say a full-blown famine may be underway.
On Thursday, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his
former defense minister, accusing them of using “starvation as a method of warfare”—charges Israel adamantly denies. In Deir al-Balah, the Eids are among hundreds of thousands sheltering in squalid tent camps. The local bakeries shut down for five days this week. The price of a bag of bread climbed above $13 by Wednesday, as bread and flour vanished from shelves before more supplies arrived.
The United Nations humanitarian office warned of a “stark increase” in the number of households experiencing severe hunger in central and southern Gaza. It appeared to be linked to the robbery at gunpoint of nearly 100 aid trucks last weekend in southern Gaza, close to Israeli military positions. Israel blamed Hamas but appears to have taken no action to stop the looting, while Hamas said it was the work of local bandits. Aid groups say the looting is one of many obstacles to getting food and other vital aid to the territory’s 2.3 million Palestinians. They also have to contend with Israeli movement restrictions, ongoing fighting, and heavy damage wreaked by the Israeli bombardment of roads and critical infrastructure.
a “hugely consequential year for regulation in the US”—pointing to January’s approval of spot bitcoin ETFs, for example, which mark a new way to invest in the asset.
Spot ETFs have been the dominant driver of bitcoin for some time now—but, like much of the crypto’s recent momentum, saw record inflows postelection. According to Kaiko, bitcoin ETFs recorded $6 billion in trade volume for the week of the election alone.
In April, bitcoin also saw its fourth “halving”—a preprogrammed event that impacts production by cutting the reward for mining, or the creation of new bitcoin, in half. In theory, if demand remains strong, some analysts say this “supply shock” can also help propel the price long term. Others note it may be too early to tell.
What are the risks?
HISTORY shows you can lose money in crypto as quickly as you’ve made it. Long-term price behavior relies on larger market conditions. Trading continues at all hours, every day.
At the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, bitcoin stood at just over $5,000. Its price climbed to nearly $69,000 by November 2021, during high demand for technology assets, but later crashed during an aggressive series of Federal Reserve rate hikes. And in late 2022 collapse of FTX significantly undermined confidence in crypto overall, with bitcoin falling below $17,000.
starving as aid efforts dwindle amid
While its been a big month for crypto—and particularly bitcoin, which McCarthy notes has set record highs for 10 of the last 21 days—there’s always risk for “correction,” or seeing prices fluctuate back down some. Some assets may also have more restrictions than others.
“I would say, keep it simple. And don’t take on more risk than you can afford to,” McCarthy said— adding that there isn’t a “magic eight ball” to know for certain what comes next.
What about the climate impact?
Assets like bitcoin are produced through a process called “mining,” which consumes a lot of energy. Operations relying on pollutive sources have drawn particular concern over the years.
Recent research published by the United Nations University and Earth’s Future journal found that the carbon footprint of 2020-2021 bitcoin mining across 76 nations was equivalent to the emissions from burning 84 billion pounds of coal or running 190 natural gasfired power plants. Coal satisfied the bulk of bitcoin’s electricity demands (45 percent), followed by natural gas (21 percent) and hydropower (16 percent).
Environmental impacts of bitcoin mining boil largely down to the energy source used. Industry analysts have maintained that clean energy has increased in use in recent years, coinciding with rising calls for climate protections.
Investors began returning in large numbers as inflation started to cool—and gains skyrocketed on the anticipation and then early success of spot ETFs. But experts still stress caution, especially for small-pocketed investors. And lighter regulation from the coming Trump administration could mean less guardrails.
ongoing conflict
For the Eids, hunger is the daily routine FOR months, Yasmin and her family have gone to bed hungry.
“Everything has increased in price, and we cannot buy anything,” she said. “We always go to sleep without having dinner.”
She misses coffee, but a single packet of Nescafe goes for around $1.30. A kilogram (2 pounds) of onions goes for $10, a medium bottle of cooking oil for $15—if available. Meat and chicken all but vanished from the markets months ago, but there are still some local vegetables. Such sums are astronomical in an impoverished territory where few people earn regular incomes.
Crowds of hundreds wait hours to get food from charities, which are also struggling.
Hani Almadhoun, co-founder of the Gaza Soup Kitchen, said his teams can offer only small bowls of rice or pasta once a day. He said they “can go to the market on one day and buy something for $5, and then go back in the afternoon to find it doubled or tripled in price.”
Its kitchen in the central town of Zuweida operated on a daily budget of around $500 for much of the war. When the amount of aid entering Gaza plummeted in October, its costs climbed to around $1,300 a day. It can feed about half of the 1,000 families who line up each day.
The sharp decline in aid, and a US ultimatum
Israel says it places no limits on the amount of aid entering Gaza and has announced a number of measures it says are aimed
at increasing the flow in recent weeks, including the opening of a new crossing. It blames U.N. agencies for not retrieving it, pointing to hundreds of truckloads languishing on the Gaza side of the border.
But the military’s own figures show that the amount of aid entering Gaza plunged to around 1,800 trucks in October, down from over 4,200 the previous month. At the current rate of entry, around 2,400 trucks would come into Gaza in November. Around 500 trucks entered each day before the war.
The U.N. says less than half the truckloads are actually distributed because of ongoing fighting, Israeli denial of movement requests, and the breakdown of law and order.
Hamas-run police have vanished from many areas after being tar -
geted by Israeli airstrikes. The war started October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led fighters stormed into Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting around 250. Around 100 hostages are still inside Gaza, at least a third of whom are dead, and Hamas militants have repeatedly regrouped after Israeli operations, carrying out hit-and-run attacks from tunnels and bombed-out buildings.
Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed over 44,000 Palestinians, more than half of them women and children, according to local health authorities, who do not say how many of the dead were fighters.
The United States warned Israel in October that it might be forced to curtail some of its crucial military support if Israel did not rapidly ramp up the amount of aid entering Gaza. But after the 30-day ultimatum expired, the Biden administration declined to take any action, saying there had been some progress. Israel meanwhile passed legislation severing ties with UNRWA. Israel accuses the agency of allowing itself to be infiltrated by Hamas—allegations denied by the UN.
Israeli news outlets have reported that officials are considering plans for the military to take over aid distribution or contract it out to private security companies. Asked about such plans Wednesday, government spokesman David Mercer said, “Israel is looking at many creative solutions to ensure a better future for Gaza.”
Lyn Resurreccion
Coffee and muscovado: Innovations to boost yield, quality
By John Eiron R. Francisco
TO most Filipinos, breakfast is not complete without a cup of coffee, be it black, with sugar, or with sugar and milk/creamer. The popularity of coffee encouraged pricey coffee shops to mushroom around town, offering a menu of special blends.
However, the coffee and sugar, specifically muscovado, production in the country are suffering with low yields and other concerns despite the acknowledged ideal conditions in the country for growing the two crops.
The Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) is eyeing to increase the country’s sugarcane and coffee yields, reduce fertilizer and labor costs, and improve the quality of these two commodities through science and technology (S&T) innovations.
In a webinar titled “Kape at Asukal: A Webinar on S&T-based Coffee and Muscovado Sugar Production and Processing Technologies” on November 6, DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Dr. Reynaldo Ebora said the agency is set on a clear path for agricultural development from 2022 to 2028.
Central to their agenda is the implementation of technological interventions, resources, and policies designed to fortify the country’s agricultural economy, such as in sugarcane, including muscovado, and coffee production. Double yield for sugarcane SUGARCANE , a vital crop in the Philippines, ranks among its top five major agricultural products. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), its production reached nearly 21.7 million metric tons (MMT) in 2023, contributing an estimated P76 billion annually to the economy.
Ebora emphasized that the DOST-PCAARRD, through its Industry Strategic Science and Technology Plan Information System for sugarcane, has set ambitious targets: to double yields from 60 tons per hectare to 120 tons per hectare, while simultaneously cutting fertilizer costs by 25 percent and reducing labor requirements by 50 percent.
“We are happy to announce that through modern research, this objective is being fulfilled despite the
challenges,” he said.
Among the innovative technologies are Nutrio, a microbial-based foliar fertilizer, and Automated Furrow Irrigation System (AFIS).
AFIS comprises a main controller, field control nodes, soil moisture sensors, water advance flow sensors, and other components to boost productivity and reduce production costs.
Field trial results from a 1.5-hectare farm in Floridablanca, Pampanga, demonstrated that AFIS led to taller sugarcane stalks, yields 58 percent higher compared to conventional furrow irrigation, while water savings reached 47 percent. Additionally, sugar recovery per ton of cane was 1.98 Lkg/TC, compared to just 1.48 Lkg/TC in conventional irrigation. (Lkg/TC stands for 50 kg of sugar per ton of cane.)
Challenges in muscovado industry
HOWEVER , Jhoanna N. Bolencis, head of the Technology Transfer and Commercialization Section in DOST Region VI, shared that the local muscovado industry faces several challenges.
Muscovado is a type of partially refined to unrefined sugar with a strong molasses content and flavor.
One major issue is the high production cost mainly due to its labor-intensive process. The traditional vat method for cooking adds to the cost.
Weather conditions also create significant difficulties. The peak milling season runs from October to March, but heavy rains, especially in October, often disrupt production.
“Rain is the enemy,” Bolencis explained, as it damages crops, delays production, and causes problems in drying bagasse, a by-product used as fuel in muscovado production.
The quality of muscovado sugar is another concern. When it rains, the moisture content increases, requiring longer cooking time, but resulting in darker muscovado. While it’s difficult to standardize the color, it is kept within an acceptable range.
Searca journal to celebrate 20 years with seminar series
THE Asian Journal of Agriculture and Development (AJAD) will celebrate its 20th year with a seminar series by authors of its anniversary issue.
AJAD is a peer-reviewed journal that Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca) publishes twice a year with original research and review articles, and policy briefs on a wide range of topics related to agriculture and rural development in Southeast Asia.
Themed “Asian Agriculture and Development in a Dynamic and Volatile Landscape of Demands, Peoples, and Risks,” AJAD’s 20th anniversary issue this year features eight papers by prominent international experts. The seminar series will kick off soon on a date to be announced with a hybrid special seminar via Zoom and Facebook, and onsite at Searca in Los Baños, Laguna, that is open to the public.
The seminar series will give authors, researchers, and other stakeholders the chance to discuss research insights and real-world applications and impacts to agriculture. The inaugural seminar will be headlined by Filipino and American professors at top Philippine and US universities.
Prof. Alfredo Mahar Francisco Lagmay, a University Scientist III at the National Institute of Geological Sciences of the University of the Philippines Diliman as well as executive director of the University of the Philippines Resilience Institute, will discuss the topic, “An ImpactBased Flood Forecasting System for Citizen Empowerment.” The system is designed with real-time data analytics to encourage community participation by providing citizens with actionable information to prepare for and respond to flood events.
Improving
muscovado production
TO help improve production, new crushing equipment has been introduced by the Science department that assists millers for more efficient process, although the old machines can still extract cane juice.
Additionally, there are ongoing studies on the authenticity of muscovado sugar due to reports of fake or reprocessed muscovado being sold in the market. Bolencis finds this concerning, as many people choose muscovado for its reputation as a healthier alternative to refined white sugar.
She warned that fake muscovado could harm consumers, as it may not provide the same benefits.
Muscovado sugar has lower sucrose content (85 percent to 95 percent) compared to refined sugar (99.9 percent). It also has lower glycemic index (between 55 to 65), while refined sugar has 65 to 70.
Muscovado, being unrefined, retains its natural molasses—which contains the minerals potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron. Also, the molasses slows down the digestion and absorption of sugars into the bloodstream, aiding for a stable blood sugar levels.
The refined white sugar has virtually no vitamins and minerals as the refining process removes the molasses and nutrients.
The United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA FAS) reports that demand for muscovado sugar is expected to rise in the Philippines, driven by an increasing interest in healthy and organic foods, and already rank as the eighth largest muscovado producer globally, contributing 0.8 percent to the total world output, while India leads with 71.3 percent share.
Asked about the assistance the Science department can offer to small muscovado millers, Bolencis said that the DOST provides stepby-step support.
These are basic food hygiene under the Food and Safety Consultancy Program, and the assistance with Good Manufacturing Practices to help producers comply with the Food
Dr. Peter Timmer, Thomas D. Cabot Professor of Development Studies, Emeritus of Harvard University, USA, will discuss his retrospective essay “How I Learned to Stabilize Rice Prices and Why.”
The essay includes Timmer’s reflections on food price stability over the past 50 years, particularly in developing countries where rice is a staple food, as well as current stresses on the global food system and the relevance of historical lessons in addressing these challenges.
“AJAD’s 20th anniversary marks a significant milestone for Searca and the broader agricultural research community in Southeast Asia,” said Searca Director Dr. Glenn Gregorio.
National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, a former Searca director and the visionary behind AJAD, will offer insights into the journal’s early years and talk about its significance.
The AJAD editor, Dr. Cielito Habito, who also headed Neda and served as Socioeconomic Planning secretary, will unveil the 20th anniversary Issue of AJAD.
and Drug Administration standards for packaging and secure a license to operate.
She emphasized that these support prepare millers not only to meet local standards but also to eventually enable them to export their products.
“There are three main buyers for muscovado: households, institutions, and the export market,” she shared.
Coffee growing in PHL
ON improving coffee production, the goal, Ebora said, is to increase the yield from 0.54 kilograms of dried cherries per tree to 2.1 kilograms, while also enhancing the quality of local coffee to meet Grade 1 standards for green coffee beans and achieve a Q-grade score of at least 82 for cup quality.
Among the technologies for coffee developed by researchers are post-harvest machinery, such as the nondestructive moisture meter for coffee beans; a greenhouse-type solar dryer with a biomass-fired furnace designed for rainy or cloudy weather; and a village-level coffee depulper, Ebora said.
Additionally, molecular markers have been developed for pests, diseases, yield, and aroma of insectresistant Arabica and Liberica varieties, which can be used for future research, while efforts are ongoing to find faster methods in propagating coffee seedlings, he added.
According to the International Coffee Organization, global coffee production saw a slight increase of 0.1 percent, reaching 168.2 million bags during the 2022-2023 period.
However, consumption decreased by 2 percent, totaling 173.1 million bags. In its recent 2023-2024 report, coffee consumption is expected to grow by 2.2 percent, reaching an estimated 177 million bags.
Asst. Prof. Angelbert D. Cortez from the National Coffee Research, Development, and Extension Center at Cavite State University (CvSU) said during the forum that many coffee-producing countries, particularly those in the coffee belt, benefit significantly from the crop
as a vital source of income.
The top five coffee producers, the USDA-FAS revealed, are: Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Ethiopia, and Indonesia. These countries account for around 39 percent of global coffee production. Brazil leads the market, contributing 66.3 million bags, reflecting a 6 percent increase from 2020 to 2023.
In contrast, the Philippines ranks 22nd in global coffee production, with approximately 450,060 metric tons, or 0.3 percent of the global share.
According to the USDA FAS, local coffee production decreased by 5 percent from 2022 to 2023, despite the country’s ideal conditions for growing commercial coffee varieties, such as Arabica, Robusta, Excelsa, and Liberica. The country’s low self-sufficiency rate at only about 15 percent in 2021—means that imports remain high.
Cortez said the government should work to expand this gap to 50 percent by enhancing local production—a goal aligned with the Science department’s vision to increase yield through innovation.
He added that it is essential to expand the total land area devoted to coffee plantations, which involves increasing the number of coffee trees, boosting the yield of coffee cherries, and improving green coffee beans production.
On a local scale, the Philippines holds an advantage, as the USDA FAS mentioned, as it can cultivate viable coffee varieties commercially. Among the varieties, Robusta dominates the production, contributing 73.3 percent, followed by Arabica at 19.8 percent, Excelsa at 6.1 percent, and Liberica at just 0.8 percent.
Coffee production varies across the country’s regions. From 2019 to 2023, coffee production saw a modest average annual increase of 0.004 percent. In 2023, production rose by 0.2 percent.
The total area planted to coffee also increased by 0.2 percent, while the number of bearing trees grew by 1.1 percent.
While the increase is small, it has the potential to significantly
impact the local coffee industry, Cortez said.
R&D in coffee processing
MOREOVER , Cortez shared some of the technologies that CvSU—one of the institutions in the country engaged in research and development of coffee—is using, including the cultivation of Liberica coffee plantlets through somatic embryogenesis.
He explained that cultivating Liberica presents unique challenges because it is a cross-pollinated variety, where the seeds from cherries cannot be used for planting.
“We need to plant from the stem cuttings taken from the mother trees to maintain the genetic diversity or characteristics of Liberica,” he explained.
Cortez highlighted the automated temporary immersion bioreactor system housed in a growth chamber. It helps control time, light, temperature, and humidity, aiding in the growth of tissue-cultured embryos. Another is the Cellular Plant Tissue Culture Growth Chamber that is designed to create ideal conditions for growing tissue cultures.
CvSU also uses a portable automated coffee depulper, which helps remove the outer layer of the cherries before the next processing steps. A demucilager is used to speed up the removal of mucilage, reducing fermentation time.
Additionally, CvSU uses a hauler for hulling and a spray dryer for creating instant coffee. These technologies aim to produce locally made instant coffee, in addition to beans and ground coffee.
The roasting machine at CvSU can roast up to 10 kg of beans in just 20 minutes. The center uses an in-site soil parameter estimation system with a near-infrared soil texture classifier, paired with a drone system. This technology helps monitor the soil’s nutrient levels and determines whether it’s suitable for growing specific coffee varieties.
According to Cortez, CvSU engineers are working to profile the ideal soil for cultivating different types of coffee across the country.
Data gaps hinder full sustainability evaluation of LGUs
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
DATA limitations in economic and environmental metrics hinder local government units (LGUs) in the Philippines from fully evaluating their sustainability performance, a recent study has found.
Congressional Research Fellows of the HRep-Ateneo Project, including Jefferson Arapoc, Asa Jose Sajise and Charina Lyn Amedo-Repollo, recently presented “Scorecards for Livable and Sustainable Communities,” which introduced “blue and green economy scorecards.”
B oth concepts promote sustainable practices, with the blue economy focusing on water-based resources and the green economy encompassing land-based activities and industries.
The comprehensive scorecard system the team developed was designed to measure LGUs’ sustainability progress across economic, environmental, social, and governance dimensions. It is adopted under the sustainability framework proposed by the European Climate, Infrastructure, and
Environment Executive Agency. Results showed that environmental metrics make up 60 percent of the total score, with economic, social, and governance metrics each representing 13.33 percent. Baguio City in Benguet province in the Cordillera Administrative Region emerged as the top overall performer in the pilot project, scoring 51.63 percent, followed by Davao City, Davao del Sur (31.35 percent); and Naga City, Camarines Sur (31.23 percent).
In the environmental dimension, Baguio scored the highest with 42.59 percent, while Parañaque in the National Capital Region had the lowest at 12.94 percent. For economic performance, Baguio again led with 5.68 percent, and Legazpi City in Albay province scored the lowest at 0.66 percent.
In the social dimension, Naga and Davao tied as top performers, each scoring 2.22 percent, while several cities, including Parañaque; Lucena City, Quezon province; Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur; Iligan City, Lanao
del Norte; and Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, scored zero. F or governance, Naga scored the highest at 3.81 percent, with Butuan scoring zero and Davao trailing with 1.39 percent. Despite these records, the study found that lack of data, especially on blue economy indicators, restricts a complete assessment of LGU sustainability. Further, the lack of coastal management and climate resilience information hamper evaluations, particularly for coastal LGUs.
As the researchers suggested, these scorecards could guide policy-makers in resource allocation, regulatory enhancements, and incentives for sustainable practices. If ever implemented, they stressed the need for accessible, transferrable templates to ensure continuity in future leadership.
“It’s very important [that] we ensure [the] scorecards [have organized] templates or documents that will make it easier to transfer a particular document to the next batch of leader of a particular LGU,” Arapoc noted during the session.
Pope approves simple papal funeral rites when he dies
ROME—Pope Francis has revised the funeral rites that will be used when he dies, simplifying the rituals to emphasize his role as a mere bishop and allowing for burial outside the Vatican in keeping with his wishes.
The Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano on Wednesday published details of the updated liturgical book, which Francis approved on April 29 and which replaces the previous edition that was last published in 2000.
Francis turns 88 in December and, despite some health and mobility problems, appears in fine form.
On Wednesday, he presided over a spirited general audience that featured children who spontaneously rushed the stage.
While popes often tinker with the rules regulating the conclave that will elect their successor, a revision of the papal funeral rites became seemingly necessary after Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI died on December 31, 2022.
The Vatican had to work out a funeral for the first retired pope in 600 years, and a few months later Francis revealed he was working with the Vatican’s master of liturgical ceremonies, Monsignor Diego Ravelli, to overhaul the papal funeral rites to simplify them.
In the 2023 interview with Mexican Televisa broadcaster N+, Francis also revealed that he had decided he would be buried in Santa Maria Maggiore basilica in Rome, not in the grottoes underneath St. Peter’s Basilica where most popes are buried.
Ravelli said the new reform simplifies the funeral rites, including eliminating the requirement that the pope be placed on an elevated bier in St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing.
Rather, he will be on view in a simple coffin, and the burial no longer requires the traditional three coffins made of cypress, lead and oak.
The simplification, Ravelli was quoted as saying, is meant “to emphasize even more that the Roman Pontiff’s funeral is that of a shepherd and disciple of Christ and not of a powerful man of this world.”
Since his 2013 election, Francis has eschewed the pomp often associated with the papacy to emphasize his role as the bishop of Rome and a servant of the “church of the poor.”
The Argentine Jesuit lives in the Vatican hotel, not the Apostolic Palace, and travels in small Fords or Fiats, not fancy SUVs.
His desire to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore reflects his veneration of an icon of the Virgin Mary that is located there, the “Salus populi Romani” (Salvation of the people of Rome).
After every trip, Francis goes to the basilica to pray before the Byzantine-style painting that features an image of Mary, draped in a blue robe, holding the infant Jesus who in turn holds a jeweled golden book.
“It’s my great devotion,” Francis told N+ in revealing his future burial plans. “The place is already prepared.”
Nicole
Winfield/ Associated Press
Canonizations of Carlo Acutis, Pier Giorgio Frassati set in 2025
ROME—Pope Francis announced on Wednesday that Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, two young Catholics beloved for their vibrant faith and witness to holiness, will be canonized during two major Jubilee celebrations dedicated to young people.
The surprise announcement came at the conclusion of the pope’s weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square as Francis celebrated World Children’s Day.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni later confirmed that Carlo Acutis’ canonization will occur during the Church’s Jubilee of Teenagers taking place from April 25 to 27, and Pier Giorgio Frassati’s canonization will take place during the Jubilee of Youth from July 28 to August 3.
According to the Diocese of Assisi, Acutis’ canonization Mass is expected to take place on Sunday, April 27, at 10:30 a.m. local time in St. Peter’s Square. Both soon-to-be saints are beloved by many Catholic young people for their enthusiastic pursuit of holiness. The two canonizations are expected to bring many young people to the Eternal City in 2025 for the Catholic Church’s Jubilee of Hope.
Carlo Acutis: the first Millennial saint CARLO ACUTIS , an Italian computer-coding teenager who died of cancer in 2006, is known for his great devotion to the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
Born in 1991, Acutis is the first millennial to be beatified by the Catholic Church. Shortly after his First Communion at the age of seven, Carlo told his mother: “To always be united to Jesus: this is my life plan.”
To accomplish this, Carlo sought to attend daily Mass as
Bishops, bankers meet to help Catholics seeking to ethically invest
VATICAN CITY—Religious communities are increasingly seeking to invest in companies tha t match their faith values and ethical concerns, but experts say the financial market lags in providing the appropriate options.
A conference in London on November 11 and 12 sought to bridge that gap by bringing together financial service industry experts with Anglican and Catholic leaders, who represent dioceses and congregations all over the world and an estimated portfolio of $1.75 trillion.
“What we are seeing is that there’s increasing interest from religious organizations, not just Catholic, but also other Christian denominations, to make sure money is indeed managed in an aligned way with their faith,” Peter Hugh Smith, chief executive of London-based CCLA Investment Management, told Religion News Service (RNS) in an interview.
CCLA, a London-based organization that manages funds for the Church of England and other religious charities, hosted the conference.
The Mensuram Bonam Summit, from the Latin meaning “for good measure,” was named after a document published in 2022 by the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, which laid out guidelines for Catholic companies and investors seeking to invest their money for good.
The document, inspired by Pope Francis’ teachings, followed dozens of regional guidelines issued by Catholic bishops’ conferences
around the world and suggested a practice of “engagement” with investment companies and, when necessary, to offer a faith-based perspective to “enhance” their portfolios.
Only if these two methods failed, the document called for Catholics to “exclude” investing with those companies.
While Muslims have created sophisticated methods to promote investment in Shariah-compliant funds—ones that aren’t, for example, involved in pork, tobacco or alcohol—Christians lack similar resources.
“I think people of faith are becoming more aware that they actually do have a choice with where they invest their money, and not a very good choice at the moment, and that’s what we’re trying to fix,” Smith said.
“Just generally, the industry is not servicing that demand particularly well,” he added.
To achieve this goal, the conference focused on educating financial services providers about the demands and concerns of Christian and especially Catholic investors.
Mensuram Bonam listed 24 ethical questions Catholics should ponder before they invest, including abortion, the environment and social issues.
“We’re continuing down a road of education to try and inform financial advisers that there are other things besides the financial return on investment,” said the Rev. Séamus Finn, an expert in faith-based and socially responsible investing and a priest of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate,
speaking to RNS.
Finn noted that even among Catholics there are diverging opinions about what should disqualify an investment, citing different positions on the death penalty or on animal rights in different regions of the world. But most Catholics agree on core issues of the faith, he said.
“It’s important that you feel that through the money that you’re investing, what you are building is a better and a more sustainable future on the planet for your grandchildren and for those who are marginalized, the poor and the thousands of migrants that we have crossing the world every day with barely enough to survive,” Finn said.
The conference was supported by US firms and organizations, including the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Investment Services and CBIS Catholic Responsible Investments, as well as other organizations in Europe.
Cardinals from the bureaucratic offices at the Vatican, the Roman Curia, attended the event, as well as Jean-Baptiste de Franssu, the president of the Institute for Religious Works, commonly referred to as the Vatican bank.
Plagued by financial scandals in the past, the newly reformed Vatican bank has made an effort to set itself as an example of transparency and efficiency for Catholic institutions, which are often led by clerics with limited understanding of financial issues and are dependent on outdated reporting and budgeting systems. Claire Giangravé/ Religion News Service via AP
often as he could at the parish church across the street from his elementary school in Milan.
Carlo called the Eucharist “my highway to heaven,” and he did all in his power to make this presence known. His witness inspired his own parents to return to practicing the Catholic faith and his Hindu au pair to convert and be baptized.
Carlo was a tech-savvy kid who loved computers, animals, and video games. His spiritual director has recalled that Carlo was convinced that the evidence of Eucharistic miracles could be persuasive in helping people to realize that Jesus is present at every Mass.
Over the course of two and a half years, Carlo worked with his family to put together an exhibition on eucharistic miracles that premiered in 2005 during the Year of the Eucharist proclaimed by Pope John Paul II and has since gone on to be displayed at thousands of parishes on five continents.
Many of Carlo’s classmates, friends, and family members have testified how he brought them closer to God. Carlo was a very open person and was not shy about speaking with his classmates and anyone he met about the things that he loved: the Mass, the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, and heaven.
He is remembered for saying, “People who place themselves before the sun get a tan; people who place themselves before the Eucharist become saints.”
Carlo died at the age of fifteen
in 2006, shortly after being diagnosed with leukemia. Before he died, Carlo told his mother, “I offer all of my suffering to the Lord for the pope and for the Church in order not to go to purgatory but to go straight to heaven.”
Thousands of people visited Carlo’s tomb in Assisi following his beatification in the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi on October 10, 2020.
Since his beatification, Catholic schools from the Australian outback to England have been named after Acutis, as well as countless ministries and parish initiatives.
Pope Francis encouraged young people to imitate Blessed Carlo in prioritizing “the great gift of the Eucharist” in his message for the upcoming diocesan World Youth Days.
Pier Giorgio Frassati: “To the heights” of holiness
PIER GIORGIO FRASSATI , who died at the age of 24 in 1925, is also beloved by many today for his enthusiastic witness to holiness that reaches “to the heights.”
The young man from the northern Italian city of Turin was an avid mountaineer and third-order Dominican known for his charitable outreach.
Born on Holy Saturday on April 6, 1901, Frassati was the son of the founder and director of the Italian newspaper, “La Stampa.”
At the age of 17, he joined the St. Vincent de Paul Society and dedicated much of his spare time to taking care of the poor, the homeless, and the sick, as well as demobilized servicemen returning from World War I. Frassati was also involved in the Apostleship of Prayer and Catholic Action. He obtained permission to receive daily Communion.
On a photograph of what would be his last climb, Frassati wrote the phrase “Verso L’Alto,” which means “to the heights.” This phrase has become a motto for Catholics inspired by Frassati to strive for the summit of eternal life with Christ. Frassati died of polio on July 4, 1925. His doctors later speculated that the young man had caught polio while serving the sick. John Paul II, who beatified Frassati in 1990, called him a “man of the eight beatitudes,” describing him as “entirely immersed in the mystery of God and totally dedicated to the constant service of his neighbor.”
The Vatican has yet to announce the recognition of the second miracle attributed to Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, which made his canonization possible.
The confirmation of the miracle from the Vatican, along with the announcement of the specific date of Frassati’s canonization Mass, are expected in the future. Courtney Mares/Catholic News Agency via CBCP News
Vatican designates Ilocos Sur’s
Assumption Shrine as minor basilica
POPE Francis has granted an 18th-century church in Ilocos Sur the title of minor basilica, recognizing its historical and cultural significance.
The Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Sta. Maria town is the second in the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia to receive the designation.
The designation, made through the Vatican’s Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, was announced by the parish on Monday.
Built by the Augustinians in 1765, the church was declared an independent parish in 1769 under the patronage of Our Lady of the Assumption.
The bell tower, added during a renovation in 1810, was completed with a bell the following year.
In 1822, the church and its convent became a mission center for the Augustinians, serving as a base for outreach to nearby towns, including Pidigan and La Paz in Abra province.
In 1993, the church was designated a Unesco World Heritage Site as part of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines. In August 2022, Archbishop Marlo Peralta elevated the church to the status of archdiocesan shrine. It is currently ministered by priests from the archdiocese. The other
in the
Nationwide, there are about 24 churches, including some cathedrals, that carry the “minor basilica” designation. The title represents a bond between the institution and the pope. CBCP News
BLESSED Carlo Acutis (left) and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati.
POPE Francis greets a group of children during his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican, on November 20. AP/GREGORIO BORGIA
basilica
archdiocese is the Minor Basilica of St. Nicholas de Tolentino in Sinait town.
THE Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur. SANTUARIO DE NUESTRA SEÑORA DE LA ASUNCION CHURCH/FACEBOOK
Editor: Lyn Resurreccion
‘Science communication key to conservation efforts’
SBy Bless Aubrey Ogerio
CIENCE communication is increasingly recognized as vital for conservation efforts, transforming complex research into accessible messages that inspire understanding and action.
This principle was at the heart of the recent “Commservation Workshop,” a two-day event focused on the basics of science communication and conservation.
Selected students and researchers from the University of the Philippines Diliman learned essential communication skills to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public awareness in conservation.
The workshop provided training in core science communication skills, such as data visualization, public speaking, and grant writing, specifically tailored for conservation work.
The need to make conservation not only understandable but also impactful for policy-makers, local communities, and the general public was also emphasized.
“Science communication is
an essential skill for scientists, whether professional or aspiring. By communicating our research outputs and findings to a broader audience like policy-makers and communities, we have the potential for greater impact,” said Anna Oposa, executive director of Save Philippine Seas (SPS).
The 3M’s Global State of Science Index showed public trust in science reached 91 percent in 2021, with an equal percentage viewing scientists as crucial to humanity’s future.
Additionally, 91 percent also believe science should influence policy decisions, surpassing the global average by 6 points.
However, a generational divide exists in climate change awareness. A WR Numero survey found that 2 percent of Baby Boomers and the Silent Generation, along with 18 percent of Gen X, are unsure about climate change impacts.
In contrast, 79 percent of Millennials and 78 percent of Gen Z express concern.
The event was organized by UP Diliman College of Science in collaboration with SPS.
Sustainable paper mulch developed for agri, reduction of plastic
AN eco-friendly material was developed that supports sustainable agriculture by helping improve soil health, enhance crop yield, and reduce plastic waste.
The paper mulch that the Department of Science and Technology’s Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) has developed is using waste materials that was designed to reduce reliance on synthetic and polymer materials in farming.
The Institute recently entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with JC Del Mundo Sustainable Farming School in Brgy. Bangin, Agoncillo, Batangas. The school serves as a demonstration farm to help train the barangay’s residents interested in organic farming. Currently, the paper mulch is being field-tested at the school, with preliminary promising results.
The paper mulch is made from locally sourced, biodegradable materials wherein 20 percent is from abaca stripping waste and 80 percent from old corrugated cartons. It easily breaks down naturally into the soil, providing nutrients to crops while suppressing weed growth and pest inhabitation, conserving soil moisture and maintaining a stable temperature of 35 degrees Celsius (C) compared to synthetic mulch which temperature shoots up to 39°C to 40°C. This contributes to better crop management
and lessens the environmental impact associated with traditional plastic mulches.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said: “The paper mulch technology is one of the innovations that is set to address the increasing demand for sustainable materials and practices in agriculture in our country. It will particularly help address the rising concerns on plastic pollution and soil degradation.”
For his part, DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon said: ”The Institute is currently working with various agricultural stakeholders to conduct field tests and ensure the product’s adaptability to different farming environments.”
This innovative product is part of the Institute’s continued efforts to harness natural materials in creating environmentally friendly solutions. It is poised to contribute to more sustainable and productive agricultural systems in the Philippines.
The DOST-FPRDI is the research and development arm of the DOST and is part of the Philippine government’s efforts to build a strong science and technology ecosystem in the country. It remains at the forefront of scientific research on wood and non-wood utilization and conservation, pioneering initiatives that promote the responsible use of forest resources while safeguarding the biodiversity. Idohna Leah B. Jomao-as and Samuel Balmedina/S&T News
Biodiversity Sunday
Dr. Theresa Mundita S. Lim: Asean’s staunch biodiversity conservation leader ends term
By Jonathan L. Mayuga
DR. Theresa Mundita S. Lim, Asean Center for Biodiversity’s (ACB) fourth and first female executive director, ended her six-year term on a high note, and passed the torch, through a simple turn-over ceremony at the ACB’s headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna, on November 13.
While the ACB is in the process of selecting its new executive director, Clarissa Arida, current senior director of the ACB Programmes Department, will serve as the acting executive director of the Centre.
A licensed veterinarian and an expert in biodiversity conservation, Lim took the helm of the ACB in 2018.
With passion and a wealth of knowledge in biodiversity conservation, Lim’s visionary leadership carried out Asean’s mandate to ACB and coordinated the region’s response to biodiversity loss.
Through the Asean Heritage Parks (AHP) Program, the ACB aggressively promoted protected area management as a conservation strategy—building networks of protected areas and empowering communities to become part of the solution rather than the problem.
Under her leadership, the ACB also partnered with international organizations and funding institutions, promoting and mainstreaming biodiversity, and heightening awareness about the importance of protecting and conserving the endangered plant and animal wildlife and their ecosystem.
Jumping to uncharted territory
BEFORE joining the ACB, Lim spent many years as a government employee—as an environmentalist and conservation advocate— working in the Protected Area Management Bureau (PAWB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). She started working in the field, conducting research in Tawi-tawi as part of the effort to conserve marine turtles.
She rose from the ranks and became the DENR-PAWB Director, subsequently becoming the longest-running director of what is now known as the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB).
“Six years, six months, and 28 days ago, I took the leap from my comfort zone into uncharted territory. I had never managed an international organization before, as most of my career had been dedicated to serving in the national government. This shift was both daunting and exciting, pushing me to navigate challenges that came with leading on a regional scale and adapting to a broader, more complex landscape of international collaboration,” Lim said in her farewell speech.
Overcoming Covid-19
DESPITE the lockdowns throughout the pandemic, Lim’s term was marked by significant milestones, such as enhancing biodiversity conservation efforts in the region, declaration of 22 new AHPs, exploring innovative ways of mainstreaming biodiversity; promoting science-based policy and decision-making for biodiversity through knowledge management and reviving the Scientific Advi -
sory Committee; and increasing stakeholder engagement by using creative means for more active engagement with key stakeholders and the general public, among many others.
“We really went through a lot together—weathering the challenges of the Covid pandemic, finding creative ways to keep the office running, and giving each other the emotional and mental support we needed during the lockdowns. It was a time that tested us, but we made it through together,” Lim said.
She thanked each of the ACB departments and their respective directors for standing by her and supporting her mission to facilitate regional cooperation and collaboration for Asean biodiversity.
Notable accomplishments
UNDER Lim’s leadership, the ACB portfolio was further strengthened—from forging new partnerships to conducting creative and impactful communication campaigns by engaging with wellknown storytellers, as well as concluding big-ticket projects that activated youth participation and non-traditional allies.
Earlier this year, the ACB was designated as one of the world’s 18 regional and sub regional technical and scientific support centers for the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
The region likewise launched its own regional biodiversity strategy and action plan, or the Asean Biodiversity Plan, under Lim’s leadership.
During her time, the ACB was likewise accredited as an official observer in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the United Nations Environment Assembly, and consequently, in the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution.
Revitalizing ACB Fund
LIM also revitalized the Asean Biodiversity Fund and has initiated several institutional reforms to enable the ACB to become the Asean region’s center of excellence in biodiversity.
This includes the creation of the Resource Mobilisation Unit intended to promote sustainable financing for projects and programs of the Centre.
In 2022, she was elected as the chairman of the Global Partnership for Business and Biodiversity, a global network aiming to foster partnerships with the private sector to achieve global biodiversity targets.
This inspired her to work closely with Indonesia, as Asean Chair in 2023, and the Asean Business Advisory Council, to launch the Asean Business and Biodiversity Initiative.
This initiative further strengthened efforts to inte -
grate nature into business sustainability plans and encouraged the private sector to contribute meaningfully toward humanity’s goal of living in harmony with nature.
Thank yous and good lucks VARIOUS partners, representatives from the Asean member states, former colleagues, and notable personalities sent their messages of support and birthday greetings via recorded videos to the outgoing executive director, who is also well-known for her strong management capabilities, and tireless work.
“On behalf of the Singapore Embassy in Manila, I want to wish you a very very happy birthday and warmest congratulations on the successful completion of your remarkable term as ED [executive director] of the Asean Centre for Biodiversity. Thank you for your dedication and perseverance in promoting biodiversity in Asean.
We truly appreciate your contributions,” said Ambassador Constance See from Singapore.
“On behalf of the Singapore Embassy, I want to express our heartfelt appreciation to you and your outstanding team in the ACB for the invaluable support that you gave to us during the recent visit of His Excellency, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam last August,” See added.
Indonesian Deputy Director of Species Preservation and Genetics, Badiah Achmad Said, likewise expressed her high regard for the ACB’s outgoing executive.
“I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for your big contribution while leading the ACB. You have greatly helped Indonesia and other Asean member states in implementing biodiversity conservation programmes— making our unity as an AMS truly meaningful,” she said.
Environmentalist Gregg Yan, founder and executive director of Best Alternatives, described Lim as a staunch defender of biodiversity.
“Doc Mundita has always been one of the leading ladies of the Asian environmental movement. We wish her luck on her next adventures,” says Yan.
Environmental lawyer Gloria Estenzo Ramos, vice president
of ocean conservation nongovernment organization Oceana, described Lim as an outstanding public servant.
“ACB ED Mundita Lim is an outstanding public servant and I’m sure she brought ACB to greater heights, mainstreaming biodiversity protection among key decision makers at the Asean region and institutionalizing policies for the protection of our vastly threatened flora and fauna in the region amid the climate, biodiversity and pollution crises we face,” said Ramos, also a staunch defender of marine mammals and their habitats.
‘Extraordinary steward of nature’ WE were privileged to have worked closely together when Oceana was still the new kid in the block among NGOs in the country. So many milestones were reached with her as then-BMB director who was all out to be a key partner in this challenging but most rewarding journey to protect and rehabilitate our ecosystems and improve the well-being of our people,” Ramos added.
She acknowledged that the long overdue Tañon Strait Protected Seascape first general assembly happened under Lim’s watch. Same with the approval of the Tañon Strait Management Plan, where the impacts of climate change had to be integrated.
“She stood strong not to allow commercial fishing in Tañon Strait, notwithstanding strong pressures for her to be silent about it. The artisanal fisherfolk attribute the outstanding interagency collaboration to the enforcement of our laws in Tañon Strait, where species of fish they have not seen for years came back,” she explained.
“It was also under her watch that the Philippine Rise, including Benham Bank, was declared a marine resource reserve under the presidential proclamation signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte. She inspired us with her courageous and brilliant leadership, and I must say those were the golden years of DENR leadership for marine habitat protection in the country. Thank you, Mundita, for being the extraordinary steward of nature that you were, are, and always will be,” Ramos said.
Service
The paper mulch experimental setup inside the greenhouse remains intact despite multiple watering, demonstrating its durability as a sustainable alternative in agricultural applications. DOST-FPRDI
OUTGOING ACB Executive Director Dr. Theresa Mundita S. Lim (left) hands over a moss plaque symbolizing Asean biodiversity to Clarissa C. Arida, ACB’s senior director of the Programmes Department, and now the Center’s acting executive director. ACB PHOTO
League One Volleyball lands additional investment with first pro season nearing launch
T$100 million boost for new pro league Sports
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A8 SundAy, november 24, 2024
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Editor: Jun Lomibao
Tennis stars share thoughts on Nadal’s career and retirement
MALAGA, Spain—As Rafael Nadal retires from tennis, current and former players—from Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic to Iga Swiatek and Taylor Fritz and so many more—have been sharing their thoughts on what the owner of 22 Grand Slam titles meant to them and to their sport.
n “He was pretty much the perfect role model for younger tennis players, for kids. And it’s been an honor to just get the chance to play him and to play someone who I obviously grew up watching. I mean, it’s crazy that it’s kind of just like an end of an era here.”—Taylor Fritz, this year’s US Open runner-up and currently ranked No. 4.
n “It’s been such an honor to see him play. I’ve been to his matches and watched him live. He’s a really special athlete who motivated me to fight for every point. His attitude is something…iconic.”—Elina Svitolina, three-time Grand Slam semifinalist.
n “What a legend. What a great ambassador for the sport. One of the greatest athletes ever—not just in tennis.”—Thanasi Kokkinakis, 2022 Australian Open men’s doubles champion.
n “From what I heard, off the court, he didn’t change at all with success. And that’s something that sometimes is not easy to do. I respect that.”—Daniil Medvedev, 2021 US Open champion and twice the runner-up to Nadal in Grand Slam finals.
n “What an amazing champ, no? Amazing person. Always willing to get better.”—Conchita Martinez, 1994 Wimbledon champion and Billie Jean King Cup tournament director.
n
“We all know how special he was to the sport, and I think he will continue to be super special to the sport.... You couldn’t help but admire the way that he went about everything.”—Tommy Paul, 2023 Australian Open semifinalist.
n “We’re going to always love you. We’re going to always miss you.”— Serena Williams, 23-time Grand Slam champion.
n “I feel very lucky to have experienced moments on and off the court with him. And I’ve said it many times before that I would have liked to have shared many more.”— Carlos Alcaraz, four-time Grand Slam champion.
n “Honestly, he was the only player I watched, so I don’t know if I’m going to watch tennis at all now.”—Iga Swiatek, five-time major champion.
n “He has this ferocious energy on the court, but off the court, he’s this really humble, really nice, person.... He’s an incredible role model for anyone to look at—and not try to be him, because that is very difficult, but try to take some of the things.”— Yannick Hanfmann, a German once ranked 45th.
n “The way he competes, he could maybe be down 6-0, 5-0, 40-Love, and still have a chance to win. He’s one of those guys you never think is out of it, one of those almost-perfect competitors. For me to meet him for the first time was pretty crazy. I got to practice with him a few times, which was an amazing experience for me. Obviously, I never got to play him. Probably lucky that I never got to play him.”—Ben Shelton, 2023 US Open semifinalist. AP
TBy Doug Ferguson The Associated Press
HE PGA Tour is making the most sweeping changes to its eligibility in more than 40 years by eliminating 25 tour cards, along with shrinking the size of its fields.
T he all-exempt tour had been in place since 1983, meaning the top 125 players from the official money list— now the FedEx Cup standings—kept a full PGA Tour card the following season. That changes in 2026 after the PGA Tour policy board approved a new priority list on Monday.
O nly the top 100 players will earn full tour cards for the following year. The top 30 from the developmental Korn Ferry Tour used to advance to the PGA Tour. That number now goes to 20.
TOKYO—Shohei Ohtani is going to save the newspaper industry in Japan— singlehandedly.
Five players from qualifying school will get cards—it previously was the top five and ties.
e tour also is doing away with 156-man fields except for two tournaments held on multiple courses. Most tournaments will have 120 players before Daylight Saving Time, then 132 players in spring and a maximum of 144 players in the summer months.
Here’s a look at what’s behind the changes and what it means:
Why is there a need to reduce the number of full PGA Tour cards?
The all-exempt tour led to a bloated membership in which nearly 200 players were on the membership rolls through one exemption or another, and those toward the bottom of the priority list could not get into all the tournaments they wanted to play.
T hose who graduated from the Korn Ferry Tour, for example, could only get in three or four tournaments over the first few months of the season, giving them a disadvantage.
T he PGA Tour believes that limited full status to the top 100 instead of the top 125 will give everyone who earns a card a fair chance at getting into regular tournaments.
How does the PGA Tour priority list work?
P riority to get into tournaments starts with winners of the majors and The Players Championship over the last five years; winners of the Arnold
T he Japanese and Los Angeles Dodgers superstar won his third Most Valuable Player award, this time picking up his first MVP in the National League. He’d already won two in the American League—in 2021 and 2023—playing with the Los Angeles Angels.
T he award triggered Japanese newspapers to print special editions, given out on Friday morning in central Tokyo. Japan is 14 hours ahead of New York and the east coast of the United States.
“ Every year Ohtani has set records that probably no one else can break,” Yoshio Inoue, a student, said while getting his copy.
Th is comes less than a month after Ohtani and the Dodgers won the World Series, which also
Palmer Invitational, Memorial and Genesis Invitational the last three years; tournament winners the last two years and career money leaders.
Next are the top 125; players who have been given a medical extension; and then the 45 players who earned cards from the Korn Ferry Tour, European tour and Q-school. After that are those who finished from No. 126 to No. 150 in the FedEx Cup.
A ll of them have PGA Tour cards. But there’s not room for them in every tournament.
Who benefits from the PGA Tour changes?
T he most common refrain in golf is to play better to get better status. Those who perennially finish in the top 100 should have no trouble keeping their cards, and they will have fewer players to beat because the fields will be smaller.
It also helps newcomers from the Korn Ferry Tour, European tour and Q-school. They can expect to get into every regular tournament, increasing their odds of getting into some of the $20 million signature events.
T he PGA Tour, already the strongest circuit in golf, is likely to be even more competitive with a greater chance of the top names in contention.
The tour also hopes—this is still to be determined—it will improve the pace of play and keep rounds from spilling over into the next day.
Who is hurt by the new PGA Tour rules?
Players like Peter Malnati and Taylor
prompted the special editions that are fought over as collectors’ items. Several newspapers offered their own renditions, but every one highlighted “MVP” in large letters and an image of Ohtani in Dodgers blue. Ohtani grew up in rural northern Japan where is deeply revered. I was reading the newspaper thinking he’s amazing,” said Yuko Shimamoto. “I’m very happy to have him representing Japan in MLB.” C alled “gogai” in Japanese, the single-page editions are a tradition in Japan to mark special events, and are also used to
Pendrith come to mind. Under the new system, neither would have had a full PGA Tour card this year and likely would not have been in the fields for the tournaments they won—Malnati at the Valspar Championship and Pendrith at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson. Those wins make them exempt through 2026. Players who have not performed consistently well, who seem to struggle each year just to finish in the top 125, will have to be at their best to stay on tour.
What happens to the dreamers of pro golf?
The PGA Tour also is reducing the four spots from Monday qualifiers at open tournaments. Now there will only two spots for the 132-man fields and none for fields of 120 players. O ne of golf’s charms is how one week can change a career. Then again, there has been only one Monday qualifier to win in the last five years— Corey Conners in the 2019 Texas Open. When do the PGA Tour changes start?
The new eligibility starts in 2026, so that puts a huge emphasis on playing well this year knowing that only the top 100 will keep full status.
Does this affect golf’s majors?
The four majors are not run by the PGA Tour. The Masters has the smallest field, typically fewer than 100 players. The US Open, British Open and PGA Championship have 156-man fields.
T he Players Championship, the premier event run by the PGA Tour, is reducing its field from 144 players to 120.
Is stress turning your hair gray?
NOVEMBER 24, 2024 | soundstrip.businessmirror@gmail.com
REINVENTED AND RAW
Story and photos by Justine Xyrah Garcia
ELY Buendia’s Method Adaptor concert at 123 Block in Mandaluyong on November 8 offered fans more than new music. It also gave them a chance to reconnect with an artist they’ve grown up with, celebrated, and maybe even missed a little.
For those who have followed Ely through his extensive career—from his iconic work with Eraserheads to his time with The Mongols, Pupil, Oktaves, and Apartel—probably already know that he’s always evolving and rarely staying within the confines of one genre or sound.
With Method Adaptor, Ely himself described this as his “first and official” solo debut where fans can hear something different. For an artist who has already gifted the country countless anthems, such a promise felt exciting and intriguing at the same time.
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“I wanted to do something new... I don’t want to consider the first one, Wanted Bedspacer, sort of an official release dahil parang laro-laro lang yun,” Ely shared in an interview with BusinessMirror and other media organizations.
“But now this is, I think I consider this the official Ely Buendia album,” he added.
During his concert, the 52-year-old artist performed all the ten tracks that make up his new album, with each song offering a glimpse into his musical evolution.
He kicked off the night with Sige Lang, an angsty, high-energy anthem that set a rebellious tone for the evening.
Tracks like Espirit de Corpse and Deadbeat Creeper showcased his signature guitar riffs and unmistakable vocals, while Faithful Song and Chance Passenger revealed his more introspective and introspective side.
Throughout the hour-long performance, Ely blended raw energy with emotional depth— reminding fans that this was not a typical showcase of a legendary artist’ hits.
Instead, it was more of a testament to an artist who is unafraid to start anew, open up, and share his evolving journey with his supporters.
Finding method in passion CREATING Method Adaptor wasn’t easy for Ely Buendia.
Ely Buendia brings fresh sound in ‘Method Adaptor’
After stepping away from songwriting and dealing with a mild case of writer’s block, he needed time to find his rhythm again.
“There was something in the back of my head na ‘Should you be doing this?’ or ‘Will you be able to pull it off?’” Ely shared, describing the doubts that initially stalled his process.
The pressure from fans, especially those who’ve followed him since his Eraserheads days, only made it harder.
“With all the pressures kasi from the fans of the Eheads, I kind of shied away from writing materials,” he admitted. “So once I got that out of the way and just said, ‘bahala na.’ All you can really do is be yourself and do your best, then medyo nag-flow na yung ideas.”
The album itself is deeply personal, with most of the songs carrying strong thematic elements that touches on “a lot of personal subjects.”
“In a way, you can say na I’m still telling stories through these songs—it’s just not that overt; it’s just more subtle,” he said.
Unlike most artists, Ely didn’t stop at writing; he also played a hands-on role in shaping the album’s sound.
Working with producers Jerome Velasco and Audry Dionisio, he aimed for a balance between raw energy and polished production.
“I just tried to set the stage like a director in a movie. I wanted it to be raw but not too raw, raw
and polished kumbaga. I wanted it to be up to par with current music standards,” he explained.
Making a mark
EVEN after decades in the industry, Ely admitted that audience reception still matters to him.
“I would be lying if I said I didn’t care about how other people think… I find more satisfaction in communicating and being able to somehow touch audiences,” he shared.
This sense of connection has been a constant in Ely’s career, even as his music has evolved and his persona remained enigmatic.
At 52, his commitment to reaching his audience hasn’t waned—it continues to push him to explore fresh ideas and express himself in meaningful ways.
“I can’t say I don’t put any thought into the new songs because I did… mainly because I want it to be unique… because there’s just so many things going on out there and parang you have to make your mark and set yourself apart,” he said, This desire to carve out something original goes beyond technical perfection or lyrical finesse. It’s about leaving an impression that lingers.
“That’s the reason I do it. I can write songs for myself, but what will be the point of that if it’s just me enjoying it?” he asked.
Ely also expressed his hope that his new album would reignite a sense of wonder among his fans.
“I just want them to go back to the joy of hearing new music for the first time that they like even though… they have preferences on what they like about me... I hope that I will still be able to surprise them,” he said.
“This album is sort of reaching out to that community where I was in and just saying na ‘I’m still here,” Ely added.
More than a statement, Method Adaptor is a promise: that no matter how much time passes, Ely will continue to push boundaries, break expectations, and creating music that speaks not just to the past, but to the future as well.
JOEY G’s DILEMMA
How to avoid singing ‘Forevermore’ and not disappoint his fans
WHAT keeps Side A alive and kicking, even when almost all its original members have left the band?
The group continues to draw a full-house crowd at its regular weekly gig at 19 East — that is, if it’s not out of town or overseas for special concerts.
One reason is that its current lineup — guitarist Leevon Cailao, bassist Ned Esguerra, lead singer Yubs Esperat, drummer Ernie Severino, and keyboardist Naldy Gonzalez — is known as one of the tightest, most dynamic bands hereabouts.
Another factor — and this is probably what matters most — is that the legions of Side A fans never tire of hearing the band’s old hits, aside from enjoying its wide repertoire of classic and contemporary pop-rock covers.
One original track in particular, “Forevermore,” has recently made the news due to a rather unusual issue. The song’s composer, former Side A bassist Joey Benin, had requested ex-Side A lead vocalist Joey Generoso to refrain from singing the song in the latter’s live performances.
Benin explained the reason in a lengthy post on social media. This is how he summarizes it when I asked him about the issue:
“Main concern ko yung conflict sa pagkanta ni JG ng ‘Forevermore (and other Side A songs na arranged/ produced by Side A). Kinakanta niya kasi at his solo shows. It brings confusion to people. May existing Side A pa kasi. To honor din yung bandmates ko na part din in making all those songs.
“Yes, malaking factor talaga yung voice ni JG, kaya lang umalis na siya e :( Dapat hindi niya bitbit yung pinaghirapan ng banda sa solo act niya. Sabi ko nga, puwede naman niyang kantahin yun basta with Side A. As long as may Side A, it remains a Side A song.”
To my follow-up question on how Benin communicated with Generoso:
“I messaged him and Girlie, his wife/manager [by phone] … My message was so loving and politely written.”
Apparently, what made Benin bring up the issue was that after Generoso left Side A in 2015 to go solo, the latter’s set list still included the band’s songs.
“I encouraged him to co-write with other songwriters, work with
arrangers, para makatulong sa kanya in establishing his own identity. Because I truly believe kayang-kaya niya naman to go solo, especially since he has such a beautiful, distinct voice. Who wouldn’t love Joey G’s voice? He can sing anything and make it sound good,” Benin said in his post.
However, Generoso won’t stop. He was still singing “Forevermore” as late as 2023 at his concert at the New Frontier Theater.
And so, Benin had to message him.
To be fair, Generoso was the voice of Side A at its peak in the 1990s.He took over as lead singer when the band’s cofounder and frontman Rodel Gonzalez quit. After its debut album in 1989, all of Side A’s succeeding songs were sung by Generoso, including the hits “Hold On” (written by Dingdong Eduque), “So Many Questions” (Raymund Villaroel, Louie Ocampo), “Tell Me” (Louie Ocampo, Allan Ayque),, and Benin’s “Forevermore.”
The dilemma Generoso has to deal with each time he performs in public is, how to avoid singing any track in any Side A album, for that matter, without disappointing his audience.
A weird thing happened at his recent show in the United States. Perhaps to accede to the crowd’s clamor, Generoso performed “Forevermore” — but only on guitar while his co-performer, Noel Cabangon, sang the lyrics, with True Faith’s Medwin Marfil joining onstage.
Benin owns the publishing rights That’s when the public came to know about the issue.
A lawyer tried to weigh in on Generoso’s problem by saying that whoever owns the publishing rights to “Forevermore” has the power to control it.
Benin provides the answer: “I own the publishing rights.” (He has assigned House of Tunes to administer the rights.)
He only has good wishes for his tukayo:
“First, I hope Joey G will have a good solo career that would not affect Side A, meaning he will be known to have his own songs as Joey G and not singing Side A songs. Parang Steve Perry na nagka-‘Foolish Heart’ after Journey. (When Steve Perry left Journey, he didn’t sing or perform any Journey songs, even with the songs he co-wrote with the band.)
“Second, that Joey G and Side A would get to settle their differences and be reconciled.
“Third, all members of Side A will be on one stage someday performing and creating that wonderful music that God has gifted all of us.”
But what about this question from my editor: “Can we imagine Rico Blanco asking Bamboo to stop singing ‘Kisapmata’ and ‘Himala’ in his solo shows?”
Maybe the answer lies in between the lines of Benin’s second wish for Generoso.
SIDE A today (from L): Naldy González, Leevon Cailao, Yubs Esperat, Ned Esguerra, Ernie Severino
JOEY Generoso
JOEY Benin
Is stress turning your hair gray?
by Theresa Larkin University of Wollongong
WheN we start to go gray depends a lot on genetics.
Your first gray hairs usually appear anywhere between your twenties and fifties. For men, gray hairs normally start at the temples and sideburns. Women tend to start graying on the hairline, especially at the front.
The most rapid graying usually happens between ages 50 and 60. But does anything we do speed up the process? And is there anything we can do to slow it down? You’ve probably heard that plucking, dyeing and stress can make your hair go gray—and that redheads don’t. Here’s what the science says.
What makes our hair turn gray?
As we age, it’s normal for cells to become less active. In the hair follicle, this means stem cells produce less melanin—the pigment that colors your hair and skin—and less keratin, causing hair thinning and loss.
As less melanin is produced, there is less pigment to give the hair its color. Gray hair has very little melanin, while white hair has none left. Unpigmented hair looks gray, white or silver because light reflects off the keratin, which is pale yellow. Gray hair is thicker, coarser and stiffer than hair with pigment. This is because the shape of the hair follicle becomes irregular as the stem cells change with age.
Interestingly, gray hair also grows faster than pigmented hair, but it uses more energy in the process.
The big question: Can stress turn our hair gray?
Yes, stress can cause your hair to turn gray. This happens when oxidative stress damages hair follicles and stem cells and stops them producing melanin.
Oxidative stress is an imbalance of too many damaging free radical chemicals and
not enough protective antioxidant chemicals in the body. It can be caused by psychological or emotional stress as well as autoimmune diseases. environmental factors such as exposure to UV and pollution, as well as smoking and some drugs, can also play a role.
Melanocytes, the stem cell that produce melanin, are more susceptible to damage than keratinocytes because of the complex
1Does plucking a gray hair make more grow back in its place?
No. When you pluck a hair, you might notice a small bulb at the end that was attached to your scalp. This is the root. It grows from the hair follicle. Plucking a hair pulls the root out of the follicle. But the follicle itself is the opening in your skin and can’t be plucked out. each hair follicle can only grow a single hair. It’s possible frequent
Scientists have been able to link less pigmented sections of a hair strand to stressful events in a person’s life. In younger people, whose stems cells still produced melanin, color returned to the hair after the stressful event passed.
steps in melanin production. This explains why ageing and stress usually cause hair graying before hair loss.
scientists have been able to link less pigmented sections of a hair strand to stressful events in a person’s life. In younger people, whose stems cells still produced melanin, color returned to the hair after the stressful event passed.
4 popular ideas about gray hair, and what science says
plucking could make your hair gray earlier, if the cells that produce melanin are damaged or exhausted from too much regrowth.
2
Can my hair can turn gray overnight?
Legend says Marie Antoinette’s hair went completely white the night before the French queen faced the guillotine—but this is a myth. Melanin in hair strands is chemically stable, meaning it can’t transform instantly. Acute psychological stress does rapidly deplete mela-
nocyte stem cells in mice. But the effect doesn’t show up immediately. Instead, gray hair becomes visible as the strand grows, at a rate of about 1 cm per month. Not all hair is in the growing phase at any one time, meaning it can’t all go gray at the same time.
3
Will dyeing make my hair go gray faster?
This depends on the dye. Temporary and semi-permanent dyes should not cause early graying because they just coat the hair strand without changing its structure. But permanent products cause a chemical reaction with the hair, using an oxidizing agent such as hydrogen peroxide. Accumulation of hydrogen peroxide and other hair dye chemicals in the hair follicle can damage melanocytes and keratinocytes, which can cause graying and hair loss.
4
Is it true redheads don’t go gray?
People with red hair also lose melanin as they age, but differently to those with black or brown hair. This is because the red-yellow and black-brown pigments are chemically different. Producing the brown-black pigment eumelanin is more complex and takes more energy, making it more susceptible to damage. Producing the red-yellow pigment (pheomelanin) causes less oxidative stress, and is simpler. This means it is easier for stem cells to continue to produce pheomelanin, even as they reduce their activity with ageing. With ageing, red hair tends to fade into strawberry blonde and silvery-white. Gray color is due to less eumelanin activity, so is more common in those with black and brown hair.
Your genetics determine when you’ll start going gray. But you may be able to avoid premature graying by staying healthy, reducing stress and avoiding smoking, too much alcohol and UV exposure.
eating a healthy diet may also help because vitamin B12, copper, iron, calcium and zinc all influence melanin production and hair pigmentation. The Conversation
n Cover photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com
Blue health: How the sea benefits our physical and mental wellbeing
HAV e you ever gazed out at the sea and felt the world become smaller? Perhaps you have swum in its waters and felt that time stood still, that the noise and chatter of the world faded away to a distant whisper, or you have marveled as the sun slid gently beneath its horizon.
Being near natural bodies of water, especially the sea, has proven health benefits. This effect has been dubbed “blue health,” which scientists have offered a number of explanations. Being near water often means we do more physical activity, while natural surroundings also have a restorative effect on our mental wellbeing and social lives,
meaning they also have mental health benefits. Furthermore, blue spaces can improve overall environmental quality, which brings indirect health benefits.
The biophilia hypothesis explores how the sea is our biological point of origin. It is one of the three main theories that explain humans’ attraction to the body of water. The other two are the theory of psychophysiological stress recovery, and attention restoration theory. These ideas are not mutually exclusive, and all three contribute to the sense of wellbeing that the sea gives us.
Be it walking on the sand, in a boat on its surface, diving beneath the waves, or just observing or meditating on it, the sea allows us to set our mental struggles to one side and to feel free. It can help us to find what psychologists call “restoration,” and this sense of
wellbeing is something we often struggle to find on our own.
Blue health can be a powerful tool in reducing stress and improving our moods. Our connection to nature helps us to put our own worries in perspective–it restores our attention by warding off the preoccupations that dominate our attention in our daily lives.
Not only do they bring physical and emotional wellbeing, reconnecting with the sea also allows a person, regardless of their limitations, to experience the freedom and connection that it can offer. The sea belongs to everyone, and we all deserve to feel its immense, transformative power. The Conversation
STreSS can, indeed, turn your hair gray, according to science.
PHOTO BY RON LACH ON PEXELA
PHOTO BY SEBAST AN VOORTmAN ON PE XELS COm
A TRIP TO ONE OF THE WORLD’S BEST
IN ITALY – ANTINORI NEL CHIANTI CLASSICO
By Brian K. Ong (@briankingong)
ITALY is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It left a lasting impression on me the first time I visited in 2017, which made me want to return. And so, this year, I did go back, with our traveling group, which is getting bigger and bigger every year.
They say the second time’s a charm, and Italy charmed and surprised me yet again with new and memorable experiences—landscapes, scenery, architecture, heritage, and food.
The first time we went, we visited Milan, Venice, and Rome, before flying to Greece and Santorini. This time, with the same traveling group (plus and minus some people), we returned to explore more of this beautiful country, traveling through the regions of Trentino-Alto Adige, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, Tuscany, and Lombardy. Specifically, we visited San Genesio Atesino (Jenesien), Bolzano, and the Italian Alps, as well as Verona, Modena, Florence, San Gimignano, Pisa, Siena, and finally ending at the tranquil Lake Como.
Each of these places offers exciting adventures and food discoveries! Our travels, especially in Europe, usually include a mix of exploring local markets for the freshest ingredients to bring back and cook our meals, along with planned visits to well-known restaurants and food experiences, sometimes including Michelin-starred establishments.
Marchesi Antinori
THIS trip was no different! One of the highlights of the entire trip to Italy was visiting Antinori nel Chianti Classico (Marchesi Antinori), which won “The Best Vineyard in the World 2022” and “The Best Vineyard in Europe 2022” from The World’s Best Vineyards. The World’s Best Vineyards annually curates a prestigious “Top 50” list of the most amazing vineyard experiences. These are described as “the best places to taste terrific wines and learn about winemaking and grape-growing.” The list spans five continents, showcasing the finest vineyard experiences from around the globe, and is chosen by 500 travel and wine tourism experts.
Antinori is already included in The Hall of Fame, a collection of vineyards that have topped the annual poll. These vineyards are no longer eligible to be voted on in new editions of the list.
The Winery
MARCHESI Antinori is a special winery, as the Antinori family has been making wines in Tuscany since 1385. The winery was inaugurated in October 2012, affirming the historical bond between the Antinori family and their ancestral territory.
The winery was built entirely with locally sourced materials, respecting the surrounding environment and the Tuscan landscape. It represents an important milestone in the history of the Antinori family. Six hundred years and 26 generations later, this family passion extends to a portfolio of estates in Italy, the United States, and Chile.
Beyond its sustainable design, Antinori nel Chianti Classico winery was also designed to be an ideal space for producing truly great wines. The winery operates on several levels, with grapes and wine flowing by gravity to the next stage of the vinification process. The cellars are naturally maintained at the perfect temperature for aging wines once they are made. It is here that Antinori produces its Chianti Classico wines, such as Peppoli, using historical grape varieties of Tuscany—principally Sangiovese, but also Ciliegiolo, Colorino, Malvasia Nera, and Mammolo.
Winery Tours
THE winery offers three types of tours. The Tinaia Tour (EUR 45) introduces you to the Antinori family history and their longstanding passion for winemaking. You also get to taste three wines that are most representative of the Antinori estates: Villa Antinori Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva, Cont’Ugo Bolgheri DOC, and Bramasole Cortona DOC Syrah. The second tour, The Bottaia Tour (EUR 70), is a more in-depth experience for
DOCG Riserva, and Badia a Passignano Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione. The most extensive tour is The CRU Tour (EUR 180), which offers a full immersion experience of Marchesi Antinori’s winemaking philosophy. It also gives guests an exclusive and intimate wine tasting of the Pinot Nero della Sala Umbria IGT, Badia a Passignano Chianti Classico DOCG Gran Selezione, Maggiarino Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, and Tignanello Toscana IGT. This is done either in the Bottaia room or in the suspended glass tasting room overlooking the barrel cellar. Afterward, you will be led to Rinuccio 1180 for a lunch featuring traditional Tuscan dishes paired with A Toscana Rosato IGT, Poggio alle Nane Maremma Toscana DOC, and Muffato della Sala Umbria IGT. Unfortunately, we were unable to do any of the tours, as they were not available for reservation on the day we visited. Nonetheless, we were able to reserve at the estate’s restaurant—Rinuccio 1180.
Rinuccio 1180
Cantina Antinori nel Chianti Classico Via Cassia per Siena, 133 Loc. Bargino, 50026 San Casciano Val Di Pesa, Firenze, Italy +39 055 2359720, rinuccio@antinorichianticlassico.it
RRinuccio 1180, the stylish rooftop restaurant at Marchesi Antinori, is named after and dedicated to Rinuccio Antinori, the forefather of the Antinori family. The restaurant boasts of panoramic windows that offer breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside, peppered with olive groves and ancient churches, alongside exquisite local dishes and a wide selection of Antinori wines.
For starters, we got the Le Donzelle (EUR28), Tuscan DOP prosciutto and salami from Duado al Tassi with Donzelle (fried bread dough), stracchino creamy cheese, and vegetables in oil; Tartare di manzo, uovo, cipolla e capperi (EUR21), beef tartare with egg, onion, and capers; and the Carabaccia di cipolle (EUR18), onion soup, croutons, marinated egg, which is an Antinori family recipe.
Our mains consisted of both Primi (first courses) and Secondi (main courses), which include Tagliatelle al capriolo (EUR21), Tagliatelle pasta with roe deer; Peposo di guancia, fagioli e cipollotti (EUR26), “Peposo” stew beef cheek with beans and onions; Antinori family recipes such as Agnello, nocciole, verza e scalogni glassatti (EUR27), wild lamb chops with hazelnuts, savoy cabbage, and glazed shallots; Pollo al mattone, castagne, olive e cipolle (EUR26), grilled chicken, chestnuts, olives, and onions; Tagliata di manzo
alla griglia e patate arrosto (EUR26), grilled and sliced beef sirloin steak with roasted potatoes; and Il Polpo (EUR65), roasted octopus served with seasonal vegetables and roasted potatoes.
Since it was a special celebration of love and friendship, and traveling together to Italy for the first time, we popped open a bottle of Marchesi Antinori Tignanello Toscana IGT 2012 vintage and a magnum Antinori Pian delle Vigne Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2019—two of the winery’s famed wines.
Tignanello is considered the “the wine that changed Tuscany forever,” beginning the “Super Tuscan revolution” by introducing a new style of Tuscan wine characterized by deep color, rich concentration, and significant oak usage.
It was the first Sangiovese to be aged in barriques and the first contemporary red wine blended with untraditional varieties (specifically Cabernet). Tignanello is a milestone in the wine world, according to Antinori. It’s produced with a selection of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Everything was superb and delicious, with the wines being rich, complex, spicy, and perfect for the occasion. To end the sumptuous meal at Rinuccio 1180, we ordered Tiramisu (EUR 8) and Caffe (EUR 3) before heading to our next destination.
The Wine Shop at Antinori nel Chianti Classico IN addition to the restaurant and tours, be sure to check out The Wine Shop at Antinori nel Chianti Classico, which offers a wide selection of wines from the Antinori family’s estates in Tuscany, other parts of Italy, and other estates worldwide, including special formats and tasting by the glass. It’s a good opportunity to taste the wines before deciding
Editor: Anne Ruth Dela Cruz |
Photo of Florence and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore from Piazzale Michelangelo
Rinuccio 1180, the stylish rooftop restaurant at Marchesi Antinori
Marchesi Antinori Tignanello Toscana IGT 2012 vintage
Tagliata di manzo alla griglia e patate arrosto, grilled and sliced beef sirloin steak with roasted potatoes
Peposo di guancia, fagioli e cipollotti, “Peposo” stew beef cheek with beans and onions Tartare di manzo, uovo, cipolla e capperi, beef tartare with egg, onion, and capers Carabaccia di cipolle, onion soup, croutons, marinated egg Tagliatelle al capriolo, Tagliatelle pasta with roe deer Pollo al mattone, castagne, olive e cipolle, grilled chicken, chestnuts, olives, and onions;
The writer with his family and friends in Marchesi Antinori – Jason Ong, Rose Ann Alabastro, Jamaica Puti, Joshua Chua, Gel Gomez, Winston Jin, Christine Jean Chua-Jin and baby Iggy Jin.
Il Polpo, roasted octopus served with seasonal vegetables and roasted potatoes.
Agnello, nocciole, verza e scalogni glassatti, wild lamb chops with hazelnuts, savoy cabbage, and glazed shallots
Sunday, November 24, 2024
A GUSTATORY JOURNEY IN BUTUAN
By Benjamin Layug Contributor
THE Philippines is an archipelago consisting of diverse cultures and traditions; with each region having its own set of cuisines and delicacies as well. There’s no denying that Filipinos love to eat. Having three square meals a day plus snacks in between meals is a must and there are a lot of mouthwatering foods and recipes native to the Philippines. Butuan City, in Agusan del Norte, is no exception.
The three-star Almont Inland Resort, my home for my four-day stay in Butuan, introduced me to this unique cuisine, both inside and outside the resort. Carl Ballesteros and Debra Tanginan, Sales and Marketing Manager and Media Marketing Officer, respectively, of the resort, assisted us with this culinary tour.
At Barangay Banza, one of the oldest communities in Butuan, we dropped by Natad ni Olympia, the home of Butuanon cuisine since 2019 and Best of Butuan (BOB) 2020-2023 winner in the “Best Butuanon Food Restaurant” category. Their signature dish is the bunta’a which consists of fresh crabs tied in aromatic pandan and bathed in coconut milk, seasoned to perfection with local spices.
Traditional superfood HERE, we tried out the moist, chewy and silky palagsing, pawo (a
local root crop that’s similar to kamote or yam) served with latik (coconut jam) and the rich, earthy kayam (Polynesian chestnuts), a traditional superfood treasured by Butuanons. These we savored with a cup of their thick and not too sweet native hot chocolate. Palagsing is a Butuanon delicacy that looks like suman from the Visayas except that it has a gelatinous consistency. The city’s Langihan Public Market is the place to be for those
craving native and sweet delicacies, also known as kakanin, which are sold at the side entrance. It is best to pay a visit during Sunday mornings when the kakanins are still fresh and warm. It is also the time when there are still a lot of options to choose from, but some of these kakanin are specially made by older Butuanons (called lumad butuanons) who are experts in crafting these delicacies. Some of these delicacies may be similar to other regions but
Butuanon delicacies have their own twist as well and have become a part of the historical story and unique culture of Butuan. Some are only made on special occasions. Here, you can try out the inisab, nilambiran (a suman-like dessert) and tinumpi (a flat cake, made with sago, that looks like calamay). A nother Butuan staple is laksoy one of the best tasting local wines on the island. This traditional Filipino distilled nipa palm li -
quor is derived from tubâ (palm toddy) made from nipa palm sap that has been aged for at least 48 hours. Nipa grows in abundance in the low, swampy area northwest of the city where many distilleries make it. At Almont Inland Resort’s Magallanes Bar, they also serve a cocktail called Batyag (meaning “awaken”) that features locally sourced laksoy infused with lemongrass and calamansi (Philippine lemon).
Sentro 1771: Where Filipino comfort food feels like home—with a fresh spin
By Bless Aubrey Ogerio
Dculture, and interior?
Enter Sentro 1771, tucked away in Pasig, where Filipino comfort food meets a warm, earthy atmosphere.
From the moment you step inside, the area is a seamless blend of wood accents and lush greenery, giving the restaurant a distinct “Pinoy core”
chasing trends — and frankly, it doesn’t need to. It’s all about quiet charm, with the food doing the talking. In fact, since the pandemic, Sentro has expanded its reach, offering delivery all over Metro Manila. From bento boxes to meal packages for large events, they have made sure you can bring the Sentro experience home.
And take note: every two years, they refresh the menu, keeping the core flavors you love while introducing exciting new takes on Filipino dishes. Also, aside from its Pasig location being the main go-to for family gatherings, Sentro has outposts in Greenbelt and High Street.
As Chef Vicky herself puts it, “Sentro is the place where you find unique dishes that are really good. You crave them, and you experience good service.”
But what’s cooking on that menu that
FoodTray2Go is a family-owned business with roots dating back to 1956. Founded by Anna Lok, the company began as a way to share delicious heirloom recipes with close family and friends. Over the years, this passion for cooking has transformed into a thriving business that now serves households, offices, and school cafeterias throughout Metro Manila. As the digital age progresses, FoodTray2Go has embraced modern technology to
It’s like a leveled-up version of the classic togue roll, with extra flavors and textures to make it more exciting.
Tomato Kesong Puti Salad A REFRESHING mix of lettuce, tomato, and kesong puti topped with a vinaigrette that’s a bit on the sharper side. It’s light and zesty, making it a great starter for the rest of the meal.
MAIN COURSE
Crispy Kangkong Rice HERE’S a twist on fried rice that’s worth a try. The star is the crispy kangkong, which adds a nice chichirya-like crunch with every bite. There’s a hint of tomato mixed in as well, giving a balance to the flavors.
Sinigang na Corned Beef HEADS up: This is not your typical sinigang. Instead of the usual pork or shrimp, you get chunks of corned beef. Some might find the signature fatty missing, and that is because of the trimmed fat for a clean taste. Still, it gives that familiar comfort. It’s hearty and flavorful, packed with labanos, okra, and other vegetables that bring a balanced, fresh taste to the broth.
Blissful Bangus Belly
Two words: Deep and bold. Served in an oyster sauce that’s slightly on the salty side, this dish has a deep, bold flavor. It might feel a bit strong, but it is balanced somewhat by the tenderness of the fish itself.
carrots, and togue.
Eight fruit flavors DON Egmedio, the first and only local brand of laksoy, is bottled with eight fruit flavors (mango, pineapple, strawberry, langka, etc.). They also market Dona Violeta’s Laksoy which is specially blended for ladies who want to have a taste of this local wine.
On another day, Debra brought us to Almont City Hotel, the sister hotel of Almont Inland Resort, where we tried at their coffee shop, three dishes that were winners of their “Taste of Amuma” competition held last October 18, 2022. Incorporating some of the abovementioned Butuanon staples, all are featured in the menus of all three Bluewater Resorts (two in Cebu and one in Bohol) and Almont Hotels and Resorts properties (which, aside from the two Butuan properties, also includes Almont Resort in Surigao). The exquisite and savory Smoked Lapu-Lapu Bunta’a, second place winner in the Main Course category, is their version of bunta’a. It consists of smoked lapulapu (grouper) stuffed with succulent crab meat, complemented by a laksoy-infused coconut pineapple sauce, all served over a bed of turmeric adlai risotto. The Almont Trio Medley, winner in the Appetizer category, consists of Chicken Inasal Taco, Sisig Panipuri and Lumpiang Hubad Lettuce. The Coconut Kaffir Lime ice cream, winner in the Ice Cream category, is a waffle topped with grilled pineapple and loaded with palagsing bits.
Sentro
purist, it’s a delight for those open to fusion flavors.
Chewy Suman with Mango A LOVELY pairing of mango and suman, this dessert has a slight crispiness on the outside of the suman while staying soft inside. The latik sauce is a classic addition, and the mango is just sweet enough, though it could be better served cold.
Buko Pandan SENTRO’S version includes shaved buko, small chewy sagos, macapuno, and pandan gelatin. It’s refreshing, with that familiar
Pawo with latik, Kayam and Palagsing (PHOTO BY DEBRA TANGINAN) Smoked Lapu-Lapu Bunta’a
Kesong Puti
Smoked Fish Spring Rolls Rated GG
Kangkong Rice Blissful Bangus Belly Fried Vegetable Spring Rolls
Wine Dine&
A SLICE OF SPAIN
TOP 6 FOOD RECOMMENDATIONS AT BUENO TAPAS
By Justine Xyrah Garcia
Ytender meat is infused with the flavors of red wine, herbs, and spices, creating a rich and deeply satisfying dish. It’s a prime example of Bueno Tapas’ dedication to traditional Spanish cooking.
for those who crave indulgent, slow-cooked flavors with a luxurious touch.
Enjoy a Fusion of Tropical Flavors at Waterside
6. Gambas Al Ajillo
5. Chicharron (Two-Way Crispy Pork Belly)
FOR a dish that redefines indulgence, the Chicharron at Bueno is unparalleled. Imagine pork belly slow-cooked to tender perfection, then fried until the skin crackles with crispness. Served on a cloudlike bed of whipped potatoes and finished with a glossy demi-glace, this dish delivers a symphony of textures: the crunch of the pork, the creaminess of the potatoes, and the silky richness of the sauce. Each bite is an explosion of umami, making it a must-order for pork lovers .
4. Estofado de Res (Catalan-Style Braised Beef) Slow-cooked for eight hours, this Catalan-style braised beef is the ultimate comfort food. The
3. Paella Alcachofas (Artichoke Paella) Bueno’s Paella Alcachofas is a celebration of earthy, vegetal flavors. The saffron-hued rice, cooked in a rich vegetable stock, is dotted with tender artichokes and other seasonal vegetables, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. The crowning glory is the socarrat— the crispy, caramelized layer of rice at the bottom of the pan that adds texture and a smoky depth of flavor. Paella lovers looking for something unique will find this version irresistible
2. Arroz Meloso de Rabo de Toro (Oxtail in Creamy Risotto) Here’s another excellent recommendation if you prefer meat over vegetables in your Spanish rice dishes. The Arroz Meloso de Rabo de Toro offers a hearty, comforting alternative to the lighter Artichoke Paella. This creamy, risotto-style dish is packed with the bold, gelatinous flavors of slow-cooked oxtail, which is simmered until tender and infused into every grain of rice. Unlike the traditional dry texture of paella, this dish leans toward a rich, stew-like consistency that melts in your mouth with every bite. Each spoonful delivers an irresistible combination of savory, meaty depth balanced by the creamy texture of the rice. It’s a dish designed
1. Biscoff Tarta de Queso (Basque Burnt Cheesecake with Biscoff)
Bueno Tapas elevates the beloved Basque burnt cheesecake with a bold twist, adding alcohol to balance its sweetness. The cheesecake’s signature creamy interior is contrasted by its deeply caramelized, slightly smoky top, creating a complex flavor profile that feels indulgent but never cloying. The addition of alcohol—subtly infused into the mix—introduces a warm, aromatic layer that cuts through the richness and complements the spiced sweetness of the crumbled Biscoff topping.
It’s an exceptional way to end your meal, leaving a memorable impression of Bueno’s innovative take on Spanish cuisine.
With dishes like the decadent Biscoff Tarta de Queso down to the artfully executed Gambas Al Ajillo, Bueno Tapas showcases the diversity and depth of Spanish cuisine that balances tradition with innovation.
Every dish on their menu reflects the skill and thoughtfulness of Chef Alfonso, who brings the flavors of San Sebastián to life in the heart of BGC.
Whether you’re a lover of bold, hearty flavors or prefer delicate, refined bites, Bueno Tapas offers something for everyone.
Pair these unforgettable dishes with a glass of their carefully curated Spanish wines, and you’ll leave with memories of a meal worth revisiting.
SINCE time immemorial, mankind has used firewood to cook meals. Over the centuries, various cultures have developed unique methods for cooking with wood. From the open fires of primitive tribes to the sophisticated wood-fired ovens of the Romans and Greeks, this age-old technique has connected civilizations through a shared love of food.
This thought lingered in my mind when was invited to an exclusive dinner at Waterside in Solaire Resort Entertainment City last November 7, 2024. Dubbed “Four Hands,” the event promised a fiery culinary experience as two seasoned chefs teamed up for an exclusive dinner.
The two chefs behind this collaboration were Michelin-trained and Waterside’s very own Chef Alfred Santiago, alongside multiawarded French-trained Chef Aaron Isip of Kasa Palma. They offered media guests a preview of a one-night-only, four-course dinner happening today, November 24, 2024, at 6 PM at Waterside. Symphony of flavors
THE dynamic collaboration highlighted each chef’s distinct styles. For the amuse-bouche,
Chef Aaron served yellowtail scad with ube tapioca, dragonfruit, and aquachile—a symphony of flavors that left me wanting more. Meanwhile, Chef Alfred presented his alamang seaweed meringue topped with tuna and taba ng talangka, a delightful interplay of salty and sweet notes.
One of the evening’s standout dishes was the Raw Bar on Kansi Ice, which featured Chef Aaron’s oyster with green mango relish and warm bone marrow, as well as prawns with red bell pepper sauce, alongside Chef Alfred’s scallops with kamias kosho and razor clams with lambanong calamansi jelly. Served on edible kansi ice, this dish offered a refreshing prelude to the courses ahead.
A surprising treat came in the form of tupig with smoked caviar and tinapa mascarpone.
As a fan of this traditional Ilocos rice cake, I was thrilled to see it reimagined as a savory dish.
Small plates Next came small plates featuring crab pinangat with smoked gata and pulpo with cherry tomatoes and smoked yogurt. The pulpo (grilled octopus) was incredibly tender, complemented beautifully by the tangy tomatoes and creamy yogurt.
The evening’s main courses were the true showstoppers:
of
Greening Your Tablescapes
WITH sustainability becoming increasingly important, it is now a necessity to create an eco-friendly home.
Living green is about supporting a lifestyle that values sustainability. In greening your home, the dining table is a good place to start. This is where gatherings take place over a sumptuous meal and unforgettable conversations take place. You can elevate your dining experience and celebrations while making eco-conscious choices.
Sustainable tablescapes are a beautiful way to make your home greener while still expressing creativity and style.
Kultura found inside SM Store and SM Malls, carries a full range of tablescaping accessories that are under the Green Finds label made of responsibly sourced raw materials such as acacia, nito (a type of vine), rattan and lupiz. Not to be outdone, SM Home also has its own line of Green Finds accessories that come in acacia, borosilicate glass, soda lime glass and rattan as well. Using wooden tableware is a conscious decision to help save the environment. Labeled as part of the Green Finds category, these are also very durable and can withstand the heat. Responsibly sourced acacia was used to manufacture the various items that are on display in Kultura. Check out the aca -
cia plates that come in different shapes. There is also a ramen bowl set as well as chopsticks and a single sauce container. There is also a line of acacia/ mango wood products. Check out
the Kuksa Mug with either Ambon or Rice Groove and the Kuksa Cup with the Lukob or Bigas Groove. These items are not only environmentally friendly; they also look good with anything you pair them with.
C heck out the Kea line of wooden products that SM Home has to offer. Kea offers a wide range of items including rectangular and oval plates, bowls, fruit stands, charger plates and trays, among others. Kultura also has products made of rattan and these include multi-purpose trays that come in different sizes, stained coaster set, a bread tray with handle and place-
mats. There are also placemats that are made of lupiz and they come in sets of six in different colors. Another material to consider is nito. It also has a line of placemats in round and oval shapes. At SM Home, get your hands on those Borosilicate Glass Bowl, Borosilicate being a very resilient material that does not crack under extreme temperature change, or
Kultura's Nito Rectangular Placemat
Kultura's Nito Utensils Tray with four compartments
Kuksa Cup with Rice Groove from Kultura
Kultura's Nito Rectangular Bread Tray
Rattan Big Charger Plate from
Estofado de Res (Catalan-Style Braised Beef) Paella Alcachofas (Artichoke Paella)
By Anne Ruth Dela Cruz
Chef Alfred Santiago and Chef Aaron Isip
36hrs confit beef short ribs, peanut sauce
Wine Dine& BusinessMirror
Sunday, November 24, 2024
DELIGHTFUL DINING OPTIONS TO INCLUDE IN YOUR SINGAPORE ITINERARY
REVISITING certain places doesn’t always have to give you a sense of déjà vu. Not when you can still find something new to discover about them.
Take Singapore, for instance. Due to the numerous events that I have to cover there, it’s the one country that I travel to most often. But as much as I’m already very familiar with many of its streets, sought-after tourist spots, popular attractions, and yes, shopping malls, there are still times when it feels like I’m in unfamiliar territory when I come here.
Dining experiences are easily among the things that always feel new to me when I come here. My most recent sojourn as part of a media fam trip hosted by the Singapore Tourism Board is no exception. Having been to several STB fam trips dating back to the late 1990s, I can attest to STB’s wellcurated “food trips” now including the following dining options.
Chatterbox
Perhaps it’s because I usually save my pennies when I travel to the Lion City that it’s only recently that I get to experience this lovely dining option that opened way back in 1971. Located at Hilton Singapore Orchard, Chatterbox is best known for its legendary Mandarin Chicken Rice, its popular version of the more popular Hainanese Chicken Rice. Chatterbox’s version truly stands out because only plumper, juicier, and more flavorful free-range chickens cooked in aromatic stock and slowly steamed until tender are served.
The must-try chicken goes in harmonious tandem with fragrant, buttery rice and is accompanied by a trio of house-made sauces: ginger, chili, and dark soy, each enhancing the dish’s flavors.
A s for other popular menu items, there’s the Lobster Laksa with Boston lobster, quail eggs, fish cake, thick vermicelli noodles, and dried beancurd, served in a flavorful coconut broth of spices and fresh coconut milk.
A nd then there’s also the Seafood Hokkien Mee, an umami-rich and stir-fried dish that combines fresh prawns, squid, pork belly, eggs, bean sprouts, and chives with thick bee hoon (rice vermicelli) and yellow noodles, all simmering in homemade seafood broth.
The concept behind Chatterbox is to bring Singapore’s authentic hawker culture from its traditional street setting into a posh environment, hence its location inside a five-star hotel. The restaurant’s modern interior feels cozy and in local parlance, maaliwalas, thanks in large part to the bright and airy ambiance of its elegant and minimalist design. Premium ingredients and refined preparation justify the higher price tags compared to hawker centers like Lau Pa Sat where our group also chowed.
True Blue Peranakan Cuisine
“Peranakan” is a term that generally refers to people of mixed Chinese and Malay heritage. No surprise
then there are several restaurants that honor Singapore’s rich Peranakan heritage. As gleaned from its name alone, True Blue Peranakan Cuisine is an acclaimed dining spot that offers exactly just that. Located on Armenian Street right next to the iconic Peranakan Museum which we also visited, this restaurant’s interior has the look and feel of an ancestral Peranakan home complete with old-school antique furniture, traditional ceramics, and even old family photos. Said to be based on recipes passed down through generations, the menu fare at True Blue Peranakan is pretty much “lutong bahay” Singapore style. Easily the must-try here is Ayam Buah Keluak, a rich and flavorful chicken stew made with the unique buah keluak nut. Babi Pongteh is another popular dish—a tender braised pork dish with potatoes, slow-cooked in a sauce made of fermented soybeans and garlic. Given that it’s best paired with steaming white rice, I won’t be surprised if this is popular with Filipino expats and tourists. For drinks and desserts, one can’t go wrong with the uber-popular Chendon, served with shaved ice, coconut milk, palm sugar, and green pandan jelly. The more traditional Kueh Pie Tee consists of crispy pastry cups filled with a sweet mix of turnips, carrots, and prawns. The beverage selection includes Bandung, a rose syrup milk drink, and something we’re all familiar with here at home, Calamansi Juice.
W hile it’s a little on the pricey side, the immersive Peranakan experience and “historical” setting that goes beyond food makes True Blue Peranakan, in my opinion, a worthy inclusion to any Singapore itinerary.
Kee Eng Kee Seafood
I’m willing to bet that people come here for one reason and one reason alone: because they’re hungry. Also known as simply KEK Seafood, this no-frills, no-nonsense restaurant is all about the food. Located in the heart of Bukit Merah, this familyrun eatery has been delighting customers with savory, flavorful dishes for over five decades. KEK Seafood is a testament to Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, offering a down-to-earth dining experience that draws both locals and tourists alike.
The spacious, open-air dining area is ideal for families and large groups but even solo diners looking for good food in a hawker-style setting won’t feel out of place here.
K EK Seafood specializes in stir-fry dishes or zi char as locals prefer to call them. Pretty much everything is good here but easily standing out is their famous Chilli Crab, another famous Singapore dish done very well here. Fresh, meaty crabs cooked in a rich, tangy chili sauce that’s sweet, spicy, and
savory all at once and paired with fried and chewy mantou buns. What’s not to like? A nother must-try is the Moonlight Hor Fun, a smoky flat rice noodle dish stir-fried with prawns, squid, and vegetables, topped with raw egg. And then
SAVOR THE GOODNESS: THE WHOLESOME TABLE OPENS AT
By Candy P. Dalizon Contributor
WHO says healthy food can’t taste delicious? A recent study published by an insurance company revealed that many people think healthy food isn’t always appetizing, but The Wholesome Table is challenging that notion.
With this restaurant, you do not have to sacrifice your taste buds to eat healthily. From invigorating coffee and superfood smoothies to fresh salads, hearty sandwiches and burgers, delectable pizzas and pastas, satisfying main courses, and mouthwatering desserts, The Wholesome Table offers a diverse menu that satisfies every craving.
Ten years ago, The Wholesome Table first opened its doors in BGC, driven by a simple philosophy: to serve fresh, clean food that nourishes the body and soul. Today, they continue to redefine healthy eating, offering a relaxed dining experience where taste and wellness are prioritized.
Sustainable, organic, flavorful MOMPRENEUR Bianca AranetaElizalde and husband Juan’s vision of a healthier lifestyle has expanded. The Wholesome Table’s newest branch at Shangri-La Plaza Mall brings their commitment to sustainable, organic, and flavorful dining to the heart of Ortigas.
There is a misconception that organic food is, number one vegetarian only, and two, it’s bland,” said Bianca, adding that The Wholesome Table corrects this misconception by offering tasty meat and plant-based comfort food.
I figured Filipinos will enjoy this because they can still have the many dishes they’re used to eating such as burgers, pork, and pizza, but they’re less guilty because they come from good sources, made with better and healthier ingredients,” Bianca shared.
The Wholesome Table remains committed to serving farm-to-table, organic meals made with ethical and sustainable ingredients as it was a decade ago. From comforting classics to innovative, gluten-free, and plant-based options, every dish and beverage is crafted to be both delicious and nutritious, free from artificial additives, refined sugar, and harmful preservatives.
“Our mission is to bring people together over good, honest food that supports a healthy way of life. We are thrilled to extend our food philoso-
phy to the Ortigas crowd with this new location at Shangri-La Plaza. We want to inspire our community to eat well, live well, and embrace a mindful way of eating,” said Bianca.
“ The Wholesome Table is not just a for profit business that we went into, This is more of an advocacy for us to teach people how to eat healthier and to give people the opportunity to eat organic food which is basically healthier for the body,” added Juan.
Informed food choices
THE brand aims to empower people to make informed food choices by educating them about natural, organic food, nutrition, and the environment.
After all, it is one of the few things consumers can control in life,” shared Bianca. As their brand motto goes, “Eat consciously. Live consciously.”
Juan also said they have been teaching their own staff, their own team about healthy eating. He explained that by educating their staff, they aim to create a ripple effect as they want their team to share their knowledge of healthy eating with their families, ultimately contributing to a healthier community.
Bringing back the classics to the menu
OPENING their newest branch in one of the metro’s central business districts is all part of their growth plans. Having cultivated a loyal following at their Salcedo and BGC locations, The Wholesome Table is excited to bring their community-driven approach to new areas. The pandemic may have forced them to shut down a couple of branches, but it is now the brand’s season to rebuild.
Located on the ground level of the newly renovated Streetscape at Shangri-La Plaza, The Wholesome Table offers a modern farmhouse dining experience. With a focus on
PLAZA
fresh, organic ingredients sourced directly from trusted local farms, the restaurant provides a diverse menu perfect for casual lunches, business meetings, or weekend brunches.
To celebrate this milestone, The Wholesome Table is bringing back classic favorites to their menu, offering a delightful dining experience for the whole family. These include the Truffle Burger (grass-fed beef patty, dijonaise, sharp cheddar cheese, truffle cream), Paella Mariscos (wild caught snapper, Chilean mussels, Valencian style rice, aioli), Orzo Salad (arugula, orzo, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, mint, dried cranberries, red wine vinaigrette), Buddha Bowl (vegan bagoong rice, stir-fried vegetables, roasted potatoes, chickpeas, sweet potato curry sauce, tamarind glaze), and its latest dish, the Pan-seared Duck (freerange duck breast, pomme puree, blackberry sauce).
Blend of flavors THE Orzo Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a burst of flavor from the tangy vinaigrette-soaked orzo, peppery arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, tangy feta, refreshing mint, and chewy cranberries.
The Paella Mariscos is a feast for the senses. With its fresh, wildcaught snapper and plump Chilean mussels, and the Valencian-style rice, every spoonful is a delightful experience.
The pan-seared duck breast is a culinary delight. The rich, tender meat is perfectly balanced by the tangy blackberry sauce and the creamy pomme purée (rich and creamy mashed potatoes). Experience the joy of healthy eating at The Wholesome Table’s newest branch in Shangri-La Plaza. For more information, visit thewholesometable.com/.
Photos by Ginger Franz S. Ocampo
True Blue Peranakan Cuisine’s Ayam Buah Kelak
Kee Eng Kee Seafood Restaurant
Chatterbox’ famous Mandarin Chicken Rice
True Blue Peranakan Cuisine
Chatterbox Kee Eng Kee Seafood’s famous Chili Crabs
Paella Mariscos Pan Seared Duck
Orzo Salad
By Pablo A. Tariman
Edited by Jose F. Lacaba
By Seymour Barros Sanchez
CeCile liCad at Carnegie Hall on dec. 5
THe new Clara and her Toy Soldier in the Philippine Ballet Theater's The Nutcracker, dec. 1 at Samsung Theater for Performing ar ts
MarTiN Nievera, le a Salonga and Bituin escalante in New Year’s eve concert on dec. 31
CaP TaiN Hook in Ballet Philippines' Peter Pan at Solaire Theater from dec. 6 to 8
PiaNiST Jonathan Biss at ay ala Museum on dec. 9
SoPr aNo angeli Benipayo with the Manila Symphony o r chestra at MiraNila in Quezon City on dec. 4
2 Sunday, November 24, 2024
Toasting the Season with Cecil Licad, Andrea Obiso, Grzegorz Nowak, Jonathan Biss, Lea Salonga, Martin Nievera, and Bituin Escalante
By Pablo A. Tariman
Christmas! here once more is the happiest month of the year and what better way to celebrate it than by watching the best dance and music treats you can all enjoy during the Yule season.
For Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 at the Samsung Theater for Performing Arts, both kids and seasoned balletomanes can enjoy the perennial Christmas favorite, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. It is mounted by the Philippine Ballet Theater (PBT) which is one of two resident companies of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).
The Nutcracker is presented by PBT which will relive a night of pure Yule magic in a world of sugar plum fairies and dancing toy soldiers.
Danseur Mathew Davo is PBT's resident prince and Clara’s holiday hero. Sugar Plum Fairy in a role debut is Gabrielle Jaynario who is described as “sugary sweet on and off stage and that her lightness of movement will take your breath away.” Dancing one of the lead roles is Sophie Tiangco who will reprise the innocence and wonder of Yule kid Clara.
(Get your tickets at Philippine Ballet Theatre secretariat@pbt.org.ph or call 09688708887.)
YULE CONCERT
ON Dec. 4 and Dec. 5, violinist Alessio Benvenuti is the featured soloist in the MSO concert called The Majesty of Christmas: A Yule Concert. Program includes Handel’s Messiah, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons (“Winter”).
Featured soloist is soprano Angeli Benipayo. Venue is the St. Michael The Archangel Church located at 1928 10th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City.
Funds raised through this concert will help sustain the Manila Symphony Orchestra’s mission to inspire and nurture future generations of musicians while bringing world-class performances and educational programs to the public. (Secure tickets at https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/shows/ show.aspx...)
PETER PAN
Ru NNING at Solaire Theater Dec. 6 to Dec. 8 is the reimagined version of the classic tale
Peter Pan with a totally revised libretto, original music, sets and brand-new choreography.
Ballet Philippines president Kathleen Liechtenstein said the production offers something entirely new while still preserving the heartwarming essence of the familiar story.
“We are gearing up toward entertainment value. We aim to get the highest for that and expect more families to enjoy, come, and celebrate Christmas together with the entire family still within the context of Filipino culture and tradition,” Liechtenstein said.
Ballet Philippines artistic director Mikhail Martynyuk emphasized that the new production represents a unique interpretation of classical ballet.
Continued on page 3
CeCile liC ad at Carnegie Hall on dec. 5
Soprano angeli Benipayo with the Manila Symphony o r chestra at Miranila in Quezon City on dec. 4
Captain Hook in Ballet philippines' pe ter pan at Solaire theater from dec. 6 to 8
Toasting the Season with Cecil Licad, Andrea Obiso, Grzegorz Nowak, Jonathan Biss, Lea Salonga,
Martin Nievera, and Bituin
Escalante
Continued from page 2
“Peter Pan is absolutely classical ballet. This is my new version and interpretation. This is really new ballet for our dancers,” he said.
The production will transport viewers to Neverland, a magical realm that transcends cultural boundaries while celebrating the universal themes of childhood, imagination, and community. It embodies the joy and wonder that everyone shares in the Philippines where family and togetherness are at the heart of the country’s culture.
(For tickets, visit the website, www.ballet. ph, or purchase tickets through www.ticketworld.com.ph)
SOLO RECITAL
Over in New York City on Dec. 5, the country’s national treasure Cecile Licad returns to Carnegie Hall in a solo recital.
Her program includes Scriabin’s Two Impromptus, Op. 12, Chopin’s 24 Preludes, Beach’s “Hermit Trush at eve,” Op. 92 No 1, Schelling Nocturne, “r agusa” and r avel’s Alborada del Gracioso including selected works by Joplin. Licad is slated to do a national outreach tour in the Philippines in March 2025.
(Tickets for the Dec. 5 Carnegie Hall recital of Cecile Licad can be purchased online at https://www.carnegiehall.org and at the Box Office at 57th Street and 7th Avenue. Student and Senior tickets are available at the Box Office.)
ORCHESTRAL OFFERING
ON Dec. 6 at the Samsung Theater for Performing Arts, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Grzegorz Nowak mounts its last orchestral offering for the year with a program consisting of rossini’s William Tell Overture, Saint Saens’ violin Concerto No.3, Op.61 in B minor and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No.5 Op.64 in e minor. Soloist in the Saint-Saens cello concerto is Italian violinist Andrea Obiso who is a winner
of the 66th A r D International Competition in Munich Germany where he also won the special prize for the best performance of the world-premiered work “For Solo violin” written by Avner Dorman.
Obiso also garnered prizes (First Prize and Public Prize) at the 2017 Prix r avel 2017 and second prize in the Khachaturian International violin Competition and the special prize for virtuosic Performance at the “6th Tchaikovsky Competition for Young Musicians” in Korea.
He made his debut in Moscow and Kremlin with the Moscow virtuosi Chamber Orchestra under v l adimir Spivakov who was a frequent Manila visitor late 70s to early 80s.
Obiso plays on a “Joseph Guarneri del Gesù 1741 violin loaned by NPO Yellow Angel and uses a “e Pajeot” bow loaned by “Nippon
PIANO RECITAL & MORE CONCERTS
LIK eLY to be cited as the Piano event of the Year on Dec. 9 at the Ayala Museum is the Philippine debut of American pianist Jonathan Biss in a solo recital.
The all-Schubert program includes Impromptu in f minor, D. 935 no. 1; Impromptu in B flat Major, D. 935 no. 3; Piano Sonata in A Major D.959 and the Philippine premiere of Alvin Singleton Bed-Stuy Sonata.
“Schubert has become central to my life in the last few years. There is a combination of grandeur and terrible loneliness in his music that is unique, and moving in the extreme. The more I work on his music, the more layers I see in it—at first, the sheer beauty masks some of the more complicated qualities. Liv-
ing with him has been one of the great gifts to my life,” Biss said.
(For tickets, call CA eO at 0920-9540053, 0918-3473027 or email at josephuy2004@ yahoo.com).
After her Dec. 4 engagement with MSO, soprano Angeli Benipayo is the next attraction at MiraNila on Dec. 22 with pianist Gabriel Allan Pagurigan. venue address is 26 Mariposa St. Cubao, Quezon City.
On Dec. 31 at the Solaire Grand Ballroom, Lea Salonga welcomes the New Year with Martin Nievera and Bituin escalante. 7:30 p.m. onwards.
(ea rly bird price starts at P13,888. Ticket details at https://sec.solaireresort.com/ offers/entertainment/stars-collide-the-solaire-nye-party)
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
violin Co. Ltd.”
The new Clara and her Toy Soldier in the Philippine Ballet Theater's The Nutcracker, Dec. 1 at Samsung Theater for Performing Arts
M ArTiN Niever A, Lea Salonga and Bituin escalante in New Year’s eve concert on Dec. 31
PiANiST Jonathan Biss at Ayala Museum on Dec. 9
4 Sunday, November 24, 2024
Sleigh the holiday
Pre-Christmas errands to check off your
Hoping to make this Christmas the best one yet? SM Supermalls’ pre-holiday checklist will help ensure that you get just that! Here's your ultimate Christmas checklist for a magical holiday experience.
1. Go Christmas Gift Shopping
'Tis the season of giving! Start your holiday shopping at the nearest SM mall! We’ve got an exclusive Christmas gift guide that’s brimming with ideas for every personality on your list. Whether it’s a gift for mom and dad, luxury treats, or quirky finds, you’ll surely be spoiled for choice. Make sure to check it out to find that perfect gift for everyone here!
Nespresso x Jean Imbert Advent Calendar – A luxe countdown to Christmas, the Nespresso x Jean Imbert Advent Calendar contains daily coffee pods from Nespresso’s Original line, including exclusive flavors created with Chef Jean Imbert. This festive calendar is adorned with elegant foil relief and inspired by the art of travel. Behind its final door, you’ll find a limited-edition porcelain mug—a stylish keepsake to enjoy your favorite brews well beyond the holiday season.
d. A LDO Welcometooz Advent Calendar – Uncover chic accessories and goodies all season long! The ALDO x Wicked “Welcometooz” Advent Calendar is a holiday treat filled with 12 chic accessories inspired by the magical world of Oz. Each day reveals a unique, wickedly stylish piece— from sparkling earrings to glam hairpins and bold bracelets—bringing a dash of enchantment and style to every outfit.
2. Countdown to Christmas Day with an Advent Calendar Extend the joy of the holiday season with an extravagant and unique advent calendar! Count down each day to Christmas with exciting surprises. Here are some of our festive picks:
a. L ancôme Advent Calendar—This limited edition piece awaits you. Packed with luxurious skincare and beauty treats, you'll surely want to get your hands on this! Check it out here.
b. Auro Chocolate Advent Calendar There’s no better way to celebrate each day towards Christmas with premium chocolates! Unlock an assortment of Auro Chocolate with your very own Filipino Holiday Advent Calendar crafted using sustainably sourced cacao beans.
c.
3. Decorate Your Christmas Tree Head over to the SM Store for a wide range of Christmas trees and decorations. From classic reds and greens to trendy metallics and pastels, you’ll find everything you need to bring your tree to life. And for those looking to make their tree truly stand out, the SM Store even offers tree decorating services to give your home that extra festive sparkle!
holiday S ea S on!
your list with the help of SM Supermalls
4. Get Creative with Christmas Cards for Your Loved Ones!
Give your holiday greetings a dash of personality! Whether you’re into super cutesy designs or prefer a simple, elegant vibe, the National Book Store has the perfect Christmas cards to match. Add a heartfelt note, sprinkle on some stickers, and make each card a keepsake they'll treasure.
5. Cozy Up at the Cinema
Relax and enjoy a holiday movie with your loved ones at the SM Cinema. With the latest blockbusters and cozy seating, it’s the perfect way to unwind and share a few laughs or tears together.
6. Go Ice Skating
For a truly unique experience, go ice skating and enjoy a winter wonderland right here at SM! Whether you’re a pro or trying ice skating for the first time, it’s a fun way to embrace the season's festive spirit with friends and family.
7. Celebrate Noche Buena Dinner with your Family Ring in Christmas Day with a hearty feast at the SM malls. Select from a variety of cuisines, whether classic Filipino, hearty Italian, or comforting Chinese.
visit your favorite SM mall and check out the Merriest Christmas Bazaar to find the perfect gifts to give your loved ones while also supporting local businesses.
For kids and kids at heart, see Santa and his squad come to life through the magic of the Christmas Village AR—he might even give you special shopping vouchers as a surprise gift! Finally, to celebrate the season of giving, show support for the Bears of Joy initiative. For every bear purchased, another will be donated to a child in need, spreading warmth and comfort to those craving the magic of Christmas.
Music lovers can also enjoy the Joyful Voices Chorale, where the best choir groups from all over the country serenade mall goers with stunning vocal performances, just in time for the holidays. And in celebration of World Choir Day on December 8, SM will be holding the first grand simultaneous gathering and performance of choir groups in solidarity with the global chorale community. Enjoy the holiday season and countdown to Christmas day with this checklist from SM Supermalls.
To know more about the holiday activities you can do at SM, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.
LOLA Cafe at S Maison and The Podium Cibo at SM Aura, SM Bacolod, SM Megamall, MOA Square, and SM Seaside City Cebu
8. Experience Christmas Joy Witness Christmas Spectacles through SM’s Christmas Parades, Santa Meet and Greets, musical performances, and spectacular firework shows happening from November to December! Or
Paradise Dynasty at S Maison, The Podium, and SM Aura
6 Sunday, November 24, 2024
DokyumentaDo filmfest gets personal with stuDent Docus on chilDhooD memories
SBy Seymour Barros Sanchez
tudent filmmakers focus on childhood experiences, both good and bad, in Set B of the documentaries lined up for dokyumentado, the inaugural documentary film festival of the Film development Council of the Philippines (FdCP), which runs from november 23 to december 7 in FdCP cinematheques nationwide.
FDCP Chair and CEO Jose Javier “Direk Joey” Reyes stressed the importance of documentary filmmaking “most especially at a time of information overload and alternative truths.
The FDCP emphasizes the significance of this genre especially among the young in order to bring about a generation rich with thought, courage and dedication to the value of truth.”
ATE SI BUNSO
In Ate Si Bunso, filmmaker Raphaela “Rapha” Dominguez sums up the daily life, struggles, and joys of her family as they raise Andre, her eldest brother who has au-
tism. As the younger sister, Rapha recounts her thoughts, feelings, and musings about her brother and the relationship she has with him now that she ultimately comes to terms with the reality that she will be his guardian for life.
Produced as her undergraduate thesis at De La Salle University (DLSU) Manila in 2019, Rapha’s major student project received the Outstanding Thesis Award during her recognition rites. Rapha, who now works at a public relations and public affairs firm, realized the true impact of her and her family’s story.
ATE BUNSO
On the other hand, Mapúan filmmaker Angelica Llanera tells the story of her family's experience in raising his brother who has Down Syndrome and how she took the role of being an older sister despite being the youngest in Ate Bunso.
The film won Best Documentary and Best Work on/by/for Children at the 35th Gawad Alternatibo Film Festival and was nominated for Best Short Film at the 47th Gawad Urian.
NANAY TATAY
In na nay Tatay directed by Antonio “Toni” Agregado and produced by Angel Sampaga, four young adults probe into the absence of their parents while growing up.
Old photos and video clips reveal how their parents’ absence in different aspects of their lives affected their upbringing, and how they processed different life experiences.
REMNANTS OF THE LOST CHILDHOOD
MEA n W hILE, in an abandoned house, three young people try to reminisce about their childhood lives and the community they were once part of in Remnants of The Lost Childhood directed by Belle Samson and produced by Yuan Amandy.
As they continue telling their stories, remnants of tragedy and trauma from their past will be revealed.
“na nay Tatay” was awarded Special Jury Mention while “Remnants of the Lost Childhood” bagged the Special Jury Prize and Best
Cinematography award in two different editions of the TAM DokyuFest, the student documentary festival of the Far Eastern University (FEU) Department of Communication.
MARIPOSA
L A ST but not the least, a young girl reclaims her life after a year of rehabilitation, only to confront her past abusers in Mariposa directed by Melanie Faye and produced by Alecx Literal and Zairah Jimenez of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.
Mariposa won Best Screenplay at the Las Vegas Filipino Short Film Festival and was a short film finalist of the recent Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival.
SHOWING DATES
D Ok Y UME n TADO ’ S “Set B: Childhood Memories” will be shown in FDCP Cinematheque Centres— no vember 24, 1 p.m., and no v. 27, 4:45 p.m. (plus talkback session with the filmmakers), Manila; no v. 27 and December 4, 12:30 p.m., ne gros; no v. 29, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., Iloilo; no v. 29 and Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m., na bunturan; and Dec. 3 and 5, 3 p.m., Davao.
Apart from screening in FDCP Cinematheque Centres nationwide, Dokyumentado will also stream a curated lineup of documentaries at JuanFlix: The FDCP Channel.
For more information and updates on Dokyumentado, follow the FDCP on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Ate si Bunso Ate Bunso NANAy tatay
RemNANts of the Lost Childhood
mARiposA
8 Sunday, November 24, 2024
PH cinema stakeHolders converge at FdcP ’s Film industry conFerence 2024
The Film Development Council of the Philippines organized six hybrid sessions on various topics at the Film Industry Conference last October 24 and 25 at the Saffron Grand Ballroom, Lanson Place, Pasay City.
The event brought together filmmakers and media practitioners to talk about the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities the audience can explore for the development, production, and distribution of their talents and projects.
FIC 2024 Program Head Floanne Taiño said that the conference is “not only a gathering for film industry experts, professionals, and educators in the field. For years, its impact has extended to aspiring filmmakers and media practitioners who are part of our motion in championing the Philippine Cinema.”
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
In Session 1, “Here’s the Tradecraft: How to Safeguard the Intellectual Properties of Filipino Filmmakers,” Atty. Louie Calvario of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines introduced the intellectual property rights attached to the works of the filmmakers, including key players like writers, musicians, and others.
Joining the discussion online, Department of Trade and Industry Consumer Affairs and Legal Services Group USec. Atty. Amanda Marie nog rales and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde Center for Intellectual Property Management Director Atty. Ma. Janice Tejano dissected the layers of rights that relate to the different elements of film production as well as the rights of the creative contributors as to their inputs in a film. Director Paul Sta. Ana of the Filipino Screenwriters Guild served as moderator.
REGIONAL CINEMA
HUnDr eD Islands Film Festival Director Dr. r aquel r a rang r ivera, national Committee on Cinema (nCC) Vice Head and Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino member Tito Valiente, and Provincial History, Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office (PHACTO) History and Heritage Head and SInel iksik Bulacan Festival Coordinator May Arlene Torres tackled the distinct regional realities, such as language and culture, that have been depicted in regional films over recent years.
nCC Head Butch Ibañez moderated the second session, entitled “Highlighting reg ional Cinema: Dissecting the Diverse Films
of the Philippine Islands.”
STREAMING
UnI T eL Straight Shooters Media, Inc. President and CeO Madonna Tarrayo and VMX Head of Content Aggregation ronald Arguelles presented the chain and process of cinema-to-streaming distribution release and how it can improve the marketing of films to the general audience in Session 3, or “Screen to Stream: ex amining the Cinemato-Platform release Model.”
nCC member Jag Garcia moderated this talk on how film distribution has adapted with the rise of streaming services by introducing a hybrid model.
FILM ARCHIVING
ABS-CBn Film restoration Head Leo Katigbak, FPJ Productions Vice President Jeffrey Sonora, and FDCP Philippine Film Archives Head Don Gervin Arawan navigated the role of film archiving and the opportunities it brings to the industry in Session 4—“Future from Film Past: The role of Film Archiving and restoration in the Progress of Philippine Cinema.”
MOW eLFUnD Audiovisual Archive Head and Southeast Asia-Pacific Audio Visual Archives Association Secretary-General r icky Orellana participated in the session online.
Celebrity host and filmmaker rodolfo “Jun” Sabayton moderated the session, as the speakers also shared the challenges in film archiving and why this is an important national endeavor.
GOVERNMENT & CINEMA
Se SSIOn 5, entitled “Cinematic Support: Insights on the Intersection of Government and Cinema,” highlighted the significant roles government agencies play by encouraging production through funding and grants, fostering cultural exchange through international relations and co-productions, developing talents and projects through education and training, and creating economic growth through tourism.
Movie and Television review and Classification Board Vice Chairperson Atty. Paulino e Cases, Jr., MT rCB board member JoAnn
C. Bañaga, Film Academy of the Philippines
Director General Paolo Villaluna, and FDCP Chairman and CeO Jose Javier "Direk Joey" reyes, and Ibañez talked about programs and regulations established by their respective agencies in shaping the film industry.
FDCP Technical Consultant for Academic Linkages and film educator Seymour Sanchez moderated the discussion.
INTERNATIONAL CO-PRODUCTIONS
ePICMeDIA Productions, Inc. co-founder and producer Bianca Balbuena, FDCP FilmPhilippines Office executive Director Joierie Pacumio, and Digital Dreams, Inc. President Danzen Santos Katanyag emphasized how international co-production strengthens filmmaking by combining financial resources, accessing government incentives, making
envisioned locations attainable, and reaching broader markets.
In Session 6, or “Co-Production and Globalization: The Future of International Filmmaking,” FUSee Media founder Wilfredo Manalang joined the discussion online as Film Producers Guild of the Philippines and The IdeaFirst Company President and Director Perci Intalan served as moderator.
FDCP executive Director Dan Morales and education Division Head r ica Arevalo presented the certificates and tokens of appreciation to the speakers and moderators during the two-day conference.
FIC, which was established in 2017, aims to provide Philippine cinema stakeholders a platform to discuss the state of the film industry with the goal of improving the quality of Filipino films.
FDCP offered the audience the flexibility to interact with industry professionals both onsite and online.
—Seymour Barros Sanchez
Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Chair and CEO Jose Javier Reyes
SESSiOn 1: Here's the Tradecraft—How to Safeguard the intellectual Properties of Filipino Filmmakers
SESSiOn 2: Highlighting Regional Cinema— Dissecting the Diverse Films of the Philippine islands
SESSiOn 3: Screen to Stream—Examining the Cinema-to-Platform Release model
SESSiOn 4: Future from Film Past—The Role of Film Archiving & Restoration in the Progress of Philippine Cinema
SESSiOn 5: Cinematic Support—insights on the intersection of Government and Cinema
SESSiOn 6: Co-Production and Globalization - The Future of international Filmmaking
SESSiOn 5 moderator Seymour Sanchez with FDCP Executive Director Dan morales