BusinessMirror November 29, 2019 by BusinessMirror

NO SABOTAGE OF PHL GRID–BEIJING By Lenie Lectura @llectura

HE possibility of China remotely shutting off the Philippine transmission grid is baseless, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. According to a Global Times report, the Philippines is assured that National Grid Corp. of the Philippines’s (NGCP) partner, the State Grid Corp. of China (SGCC), continues to provide safe, efficient and quality grid services. “China supports Chinese firms developing pragmatic cooperation in the Philippines according to local rules and expanding mutual benefits,”

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said Geng Shuan, spokesman for the China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Shuan, who held a press conference in China, stressed that the Philippines is an important partner of China and that “there is no need to have groundless fears nor to make up things.” As a state-owned company, the SGCC takes the investment, construction and operation of power grids as core business. It also owns and operates overseas assets in the Philippines, Brazil, Portugal, Australia, Italy and Greece, among others. Shuan made the comment after Philippine lawmakers and a retired

Supreme Court Justice raised the possibility of China’s ability to control the Philippines’s power grid, saying this scenario should be a “cause for concern.” The SGCC has a 40-percent stake in NGCP, which took over the management and operation of the Philippines’s power grid since 2009. State-firm National Transmission Corp. (Transco) still owns the assets. Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said recently that he was informed by the Transco of the possibility that the power grid could be shut off remotely by the Chinese government. See “PHL grid,” A12

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Bankers bullish on GDP L By Bianca Cuaresma

@BcuaresmaBM

OCAL banks oozed with optimism for both the Philippine economy’s prospects, as well as their own businesses’ expectations in the coming years.

The BSOS, conducted for the first semester of 2019, provides insights of bank management on the strategic direction of the industry and emerging risks and trends. This is part of BSP’s surveillance tools in promoting the resilience of the banking system. According to the BSP, institutional risk was considered as the top concern to the banks’ operation which include cyber-security threat,

regulatory or compliance risk, credit risk, and market competition. Respondent banks also considered enhancing their risk management systems to strengthen the banks against potential shocks and external vulnerabilities. The survey also showed that banks planned to strengthen client relationships and upgrade personnel capabilities. See “Bankers,” A2

In a survey recently conducted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) called Banking Sector Outlook Survey (BSOS), most local lenders said they are expecting the gross domestic product (GDP) to grow between 6 percent and 7 percent within the next two years. (See also “PHL likely to hit growth goal for 2020” on A5). Similarly, the outlook on the Philippine banking system (PBS) remains stable, with most of the BSOS respondents projecting double-digit growth in assets, loans, deposits and net income. “The bullish outlook on the banking system indicates that banks will continue to provide an environment conducive to the sustained domestic economic growth,” the BSP said.

₧8.4B in addl funds for RTL-hit farmers By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

@joveemarie

LEADER of the House of Representatives has filed a bill providing for an P8.4billion supplemental budget for farmers affected by the impact of the rice tariffication law. Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Joey Sarte Salceda said his House Bill 5669 will reduce the risk of farmers moving out of rice farming. Salceda said the measure puts together an emergency fund of P8.4 billion in the form of conditional cash transfers, distributing P7,000 each to affected palay farmers. Continued on A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n

JOBS FAIR Job seekers flock on Thursday (November

28) to the Job and Business Fair, with the theme, “Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan [Jobs, Enterprises and Livelihood]” sponsored by the Department of Labor and Employment and the City Government of Pasay, in celebration of the 86th DOLE Anniversary and the 156th Foundation Day of the city. ROY DOMINGO

Power plant woes trim 5K MW off Luzon

VER 5,000 megawatts (MW) was shaved off from the Luzon grid Thursday because a number of power plants were still on scheduled shutdown, forced outage and could not deliver their full output. The total power generating capacity un-

available to the grid stood at 5,310 MW. Of this, 2,176 MW was brought about by planned outage, 1,716 MW from forced outage and 1,418MW from derated plants. This prompted the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) to issue a yellow alert See “Power plant,” A2

US 50.8570 n JAPAN 0.4643 n UK 65.6462 n HK 6.4973 n CHINA 7.2364 n SINGAPORE 37.2524 n AUSTRALIA 34.4607 n EU 55.9580 n SAUDI ARABIA 13.5619

Source: BSP (28 November 2019 )

News

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A2 Friday, November 29, 2019

‘Pawnshops, money service centers more careful now’

By Bianca Cuaresma

@BcuaresmaBM

AWNSHOPS and other money service businesses (MSB) grew more “conscious” in their transactions after the Bangladesh Bank cyber heist in 2016, according to a recent Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) study. The AMLC recently published the results of its study as part of its annual report for the last two years. The study performs a descriptive analysis on covered transaction reports (CTRs) and suspicious transaction reports (STRs) submitted from January 2013 to August 2018.

A covered transaction, as defined by the AMLC, is a transaction in cash or other equivalent monetary instrument exceeding P500,000, or a transaction involving jewelry dealers, dealers in precious metals, and dealers in precious stones in cash or other equiva-

$81M

The money of Bangladesh Bank, deposited with the New York Federal Reserve, that was siphoned out in February 2016 with the use of fraudulent instructions using the SWIFT system, believed to have emanated from still-unidentified hackers lent monetary instrument exceeding P1,000,000, or a casino cash transaction exceeding P5,000,000 or its equivalent in other currency. A suspicious transaction, meanwhile, is a transaction, regardless of amount, that is subject to special circumstances such as: the client is not properly identified, the amount involved is not commensurate with

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₧8.4B in addl funds for RTL-hit farmers Continued from A1

the business or financial capacity of the client, any circumstance relating to the transaction deviates from the profile of the client and/or the client’s past transactions with the covered institution, among others. The study showed that CTR and STR submissions increased after the Bangladesh Bank cyber heist and after the issuance of BSP circulars related to the heist. The Bangladesh Bank cyber heist stunned the world, as some $81 million of that country’s money, deposited with the New York Federal Reserve, was siphoned out with the use of fraudulent instructions using the SWIFT system, believed to have emanated from still-unidentified hackers. They were deposited in bogus accounts in a private Philippine bank, withdrawn and then found their way to Philippine casinos. Meanwhile, AMLC also said the timeliness of CTR submissions improved. AMLC also found out that majority of the bases for suspicion emanated from the institutions’ own monitoring of their customers rather than reactive reporting to news articles or government agencies. As such, to sustain the improvement in the pawnshops’ and MSBs’ anti-money laundering compliance, AMLC recommends continuous strengthening of partnerships through the public-private partnership program and the capitalization of emerging regulatory technology solutions. AMLC also said establishing industry associations, as well as more consolidation to lessen industry fragmentation will also be helpful to address money laundering in these sectors.

He said he will push for the inclusion of the P8.4-billion supplemental budget in the 2020 budget during the bicameral committee meeting on the proposed P4.1trillion General Appropriations Act, which will start on Friday (November 29). Moreover, Salceda said the enlisting of rice farmers can also be used as an opportunity to quickly update the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA) for a more effective targeting of the Department of Agriculture’s programs and interventions. Under the bill, farmers must belong to a cooperative which will hopefully step up and take advantage of the scale of economies for farm equipment and other production subsidies that will be distributed from the RCEF, product aggregation for marketing, and contest the market against existing rice cartels. The bill also said the fund distribution shall be guided by the following inclusive parameters: areas where palay prices have plunged below P17 a kilo at the farm gate; areas where palay farmers cultivate lands 2 hectares and below; and major rice-producing provinces. There is a proviso, however: they must committ to organize themselves into cooperatives that will continue to engage in building rice farming enterprises. The measure said the amount shall be released by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Department of Social Welfare and Development, in accordance with budgeting, accounting and auditing laws, rules and regulations. The DSWD, in coordination with DA, shall issue the guidelines for the proper implementation of the cash transfer

Bankers. . .

Dollars. . .

Banks also recognize the need to keep a high level of risk-based capital and liquidity; and to strengthen organizational conduct and risk culture in order to thrive amid the volatility and complexity of the operating environment, the BSP said. The report also noted that most of the banks planning or already employing technology in their operations find its most important application in areas of data security and privacy, know-your-customer (KYC) procedures and loan scoring.

“There is no need to ban it but it must be regulated. There must be a certification from the Central Bank and it must be clear where they will use it. When in doubt, the Bureau of Customs should have the power to seize the money. We should set parameters

Continued from A1

Power plant. . . Continued from A1

notice from 10:01 a.m. to 12 noon, from 1:01 to 4 p.m.; and from 5:01 to 6 p.m. This is the fourth consecutive day for the NGCP to issue a yellow alert notice. The power plants that are on scheduled shutdow n are CBK Power hydro plant, Pagbilao coal plant, Sual coal plant, SEM-Calaca coal plant, Panasia combined-cycle plant, Masinloc power plant and the coal plant of South Luzon Thermal Energy Corp. Those that went on forced outage include San Buenaventura Power Ltd. (SBPL) coal plant; Quezon Power Ltd. coal plant; Prime Meridian Power Corp. Avion natural gas plant unit 2; the gas plant of Millennium Energy Inc.; AP Renewables Inc. Makban geothermal plant and GN Power Mariveles coal plant. A yellow alert is issued when operating reserves have dropped below the required 647 MW contingency in Luzon, or equivalent to the largest unit in Luzon, which is the 647-MW coal-fired power plant in Sual, Pangasinan. The Manila Electric Co. has advised its ILP (Interruptible Load Program) participants to deload, if needed. Lenie Lectura

Continued from A12

SEA Games. . . Continued from A12

SEA Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) should perform better services expected of them,” he added. In the meantime, the Palace is asking the public to stop the “raucous bashing” and instead support the local athletes and warmly welcome foreign guests. Panelo also took the opportunity to call on media outfits to be “more prudent in reporting” following several items of fake news circulating in social media. “We ask everyone to be more circumspect in reading articles that may contain false information or fake news. Let us not believe them outright. Many of them turn out to be untrue,” he said. Timor-Leste and Myanmar football teams had to wait for hours at the airport before they were brought to the hotel while the Cambodian team had to sleep on the conference floor because their accommodation wasn’t ready. Singapore Chef de Mission Juliana Seow also wrote a letter to Phisgoc, complaining that their SEA Games delegation had to suffer from insufficient halal food and transportation problems. Thailand’s football contingent also had problems with food and water.

Incentives

AS for the winning Filipino athletes, the Palace said President

program for the benefit of small rice farmers. “Congress is deeply concerned with the loss of farmers’ incomes due to plummeting palay prices. While the entry of a record volume of rice imports is a major cause of the decline in the buying price of palay, the high cost of palay production is very much a contributor to this income loss too,” Salceda said. On February 2019, Republic Act 11203 entitled, “An Act Liberalizing the Importation, Exportation and Trading of Rice, Lifting for the Purpose the Quantitative Import Restriction on Rice, and For Other Purposes” was enacted to help support the local rice industry specifically by creating a “Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund.” Salceda noted that the rice tariffication law is designed to utilize revenues derived from tariffs on rice imports to fund programs that will modernize rice farming and address other factors that make palay farming costly. However, he said these programs have gestation periods that go beyond a single cropping season. According to Salceda, this high cost of production is due to a lot of factors, including: overdue farm modernization, high cost of inputs, lack of postharvest facilities especially drying facilities, lack of access to affordable credit, lack of farmers’ training especially in coping with climate change. “Passing this bill is most urgent. But admittedly, this short-term intervention will all come to naught if we fail to unite and support our rice farmers, help them increase their productivity and competitiveness and take our national and local agriculture officials to task in implementing our food security programs,” he added. [as] to what extent [is it] acceptable [to] hand-carry cash for specific purposes like casino, or business or otherwise,” he added. The BOC said that it was already investigating the incidents and is coordinating with the AntiMoney Laundering Council (AMLC). Also, the House Committee on Ways and means recommended that the BOC coordinate with Pagcor since bulk of the money was reportedly used for gambling. Duterte will give incentives, as well as the Order of Lapu-Lapu awards. Created by the President in 2017, the Order of Lapu-Lapu is conferred on individuals who have made significant contributions in the administration’s advocacies. Additional incentives from Malacañang await Filipino athletes bringing home medals from the upcoming 30th Southeast Asian Games. This was disclosed Thursday by Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go, confirming President Duterte’s desire to grant extra rewards for Pinoy medalists, on top of incentives provided by law. “Apart from what is mandated by law, the President is willing to give them awards as added incentive. [Maliban doon sa mandated by law, willing po ang Pangulo na bigyan sila ng award to encourage them]” Go said, adding this was conveyed during his talk with Duterte. Go did not say what rewards await SEA Games medalists but he recalled that during a meet-and-greet with Duterte in Malacañang last October 16, “recent gold medalists Yulo, Ernest Obiena [pole vault], and Nesthy Petecio [boxing] received P1 million each, while silver medalist Eumir Marcial [boxing] and bronze medalist Diaz [weightlifting] received P500,000 each.” He added that the additional rewards were given by the President on top of what the five athletes received under Republic Act 10699, or the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act. With Butch Fernandez

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The Nation BusinessMirror

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Friday, November 29, 2019 A3

Authorities dig deep into Australian bank’s alleged involvement in laundering child-porn money in PHL

By Joel R. San Juan

@jrsanjuan1573

USTICE Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Thursday said the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) is now coordinating with the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to look into reports that Australian bank Westpac has served as a conduit for its customers allegedly involved in child pornography in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines.

“IACAT is coordinating with AMLC on this matter,” Guevarra said in a text message to reporters. Guevarra said once there is sufficient evidence of money being laundered in the Philippines to facilitate crimes against children, the National Bureau of Investigation would be tapped to conduct further investigation. In fact, the DOJ chief said, the AMLC has been directly coordinating with its counterpart the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (Austrac) following an entrapment operation last month that led to the discovery by authorities that an Australian national allegedly involved in online sexual exploitation of Filipino children. “In the ensuing coordination between the Philippine and Australian police, it was discovered that Westpac [an Australian bank] was

also informed,” Guevarra said while noting that it was actually Austrac which uncovered Westpac’s alleged involvement. It can be recalled that authorities conducted an entrapment operation in Rizal, last month against a 45-year-old woman who had allegedly been livestreaming her 12-year-old daughter in various sexual positions for online viewers abroad in exchange for cash she received through money transfer. Further investigation showed that an Australian national was among those who patronized the illegal act. The controversy involving the bank led to Westpac’s CEO and Managing Director Brian Hartzer’s resignation due to allegations of failing to report international fund transfers, including payments to child pornographers in Southeast Asia.

Palace to Robredo: Disclose your ‘discoveries’ in drug war Comelec summons Cardema to answer By Bernadette D. Nicolas

@BNicolasBM

A L AC A Ñ A NG on T hu rsd ay slammed Vice President Leni Robredo’s supposed plan to bare to the public her so-called discoveries about the Duterte administration’s drug war following her recent firing as cochairman of Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-illegal Drugs (Icad). “What’s taking her [Robredo] so long? Is she trying to convey the message that she has kept her silence in recent past because she’s still part of the administration? Now that she’s no longer part of the same administration, she is inclined to disclose her revelations? That does not speak well with

the vice President,” Panelo told reporters in Filipino during a Palace briefing. Panelo added that “presumably” whatever comes out of Robredo’s report is fabricated. “If [Robredo] has discovered something, you should bring it out outright. But if all these are fabrications, it may take her time,” he added. Moreover, Panelo also criticized Robredo’s recent remark, questioning what the administration is hiding from the public. The presidential spokesman said the fact that the President appointed her as Icad cochairman meant that the administration has nothing to hide. “My question to VP Leni is if the admin-

istration is trying to hide something, you wouldn’t be appointed,” he added. It will be recalled that before she was fired, Robredo demanded access to information, among which was the list of highvalue targets, but this was denied. President Duterte has since maintained that Robredo cannot get full access to classified information. The Palace also maintained that Robredo was fired a little over two weeks after the President appointed her because of her “missteps” of talking to foreign institutions and personalities, as well as her failure to introduce new measures in fighting the drug menace.

material misrepresentation allegations By Samuel P. Medenilla

@sam_medenilla

HE Commission on Elections (Comelec) will soon start its hearing on the possible criminal case of former National Youth Commission (NYC) Head Ronald Cardema. This after the Comelec en banc issued a subpoena last Wednesday to Cardema requiring him to personally appear before the Comelec Law Department in Intramuros, Manila, on December 13 at 10 a.m. The Comelec Law Department directed Cardema to submit his counter affidavit and

other supporting documents or affidavits of witnesses as needed regarding his material misrepresentation case. The Comelec legal unit warned that Cardema’s failure to appear will forfeit his opportunity to present his defense before the Comelec. “Failure on your part to comply with this subpoena shall be considered as a waiver of your right to present your defense and the case shall be considered submitted for resolution based on the evidence on record,” the Comelec Law Department said in its subpoena.

Economy BusinessMirror

A4 Friday, November 29, 2019 • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

Manila, Seoul sign accord on farm mechanization and modernization By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

@joveemarie

HE Department of Agriculture (DA) on Thursday said the Philippines and South Korea have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) promoting the agricultural development of both countries in terms of mechanization and farm modernization. In a news statement issued on Thursday, the DA said Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar and Korea Agricultural Machinery Industry Cooperative (Kamico) Chairman Kim Shin-gil signed the MOU, reaffirming Manila and Seoul’s partnership to bolster the agricultural mechanization last Wednesday in Daegu, South Korea. The MOU seeks to promote technical collaboration on research and development, capacity enhancement and the establishment of an agri-machinery manufacturing complex in the Philippines. According to the DA, Kamico proposed to bring in about 30 agri-machinery companies to invest in farm equipment assembly and manufacturing. For his part, Kim also conveyed Kamico’s interest to strengthen the agricultural cooperation between the Philippines and South Korea through its partnership with the DA. “The increased agricultural mechanization would result in enhanced agricultural productivity so that the Philippines would be able to attain food security, raise the incomes of its farmers, and boost its capability to expand agricultural exports,” he said. The DA has vowed its support by investing in various manufacturing equipment, such as tractors, rice transplanters, rice mills, tillers and plows, cultivators, greenhouses, agricultural product dryers, balers and other equipment essential for the production of high-value crops, prevention of epidemics in livestock, among others. Kamico, recognized by the Korean government, is a special nonprofit cooperative with 580 agricultural machinery manufacturer-members in South Korea. Dar, meanwhile, expressed his appreciation to Kamico in assisting the Philippines as it develops its agricultural sector. “This renewed partnership with Kamico poses great opportunity for the Philippines as it paves the way for the Philippines and Korea to boost agricultural cooperation and to develop collaborative projects that would advance the Philippines’s agriculture sector,” said Dar. In February, through its Farm Equipment and Machineries Loaning Program, the DA has offered P400-million loan to farmers who want to buy modern machinery and equipment to improve their productivity.

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PHL’s bid to earn demographic dividend gains traction with signing of Popcom, UNFPA pact

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE Commission on Population and Development (Popcom) has recently signed a multiyear partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to boost the country’s bid to reap the demographic dividend. Popcom Executive Director Juan Antonio Perez III told the BusinessMirror the signing of the agreement means the government will receive around P2 million annually for population-related programs. Perez said this will be part of the Eighth Country Program between the government and UNFPA. The country program is between 2019 and 2023. “[The amount] will cover improved access to quality reproductive health and rights, promotion of adolescent

reproductive health and gender empowerment, and use of demographic intelligence for more effective policy and planning,” Perez said. There are three conditions in reaping the demographic dividend. First is the reduction of the total fertility rate (TFR) of 2.1 which, based on Philippine Statistics Authority estimates is already attainable by 2025. The other two conditions are that majority working age population and having a dependency ratio of 50 percent.

Popcom said these efforts are consistent with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022, which carries a dedicated chapter on “Reaching for the Demographic Dividend.” Through the memorandum of understanding (MOU), Popcom said they will be able to accelerate their joint work to implement a National Action Plan for Demographic Dividend to attain the PDP goal. “Popcom values this partnership with UNFPA, as both organizations have jointly been at the forefront of the country’s population management efforts in the last half-century, ensuring that the issue of the demographic dividend is given the necessary attention that it deserves,” Perez said. Aside from demographic dividend, the Popcom-UNFPA agreement also focuses on promoting private-sector engagement with family planning, as well as supporting the implementation of reproductive health and youth development programs in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in

Muslim Mindanao. This, Popcom said in a statement, will be done through internationally awarded South-South Cooperation initiatives with Indonesia and other countries. The signing of the MOU will also reinforce the partnership with UNFPA takes place less than two weeks after the 25th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD +25) Nairobi Summit from November 12 to 14, where Popcom played a pivotal role as a key member of the Philippine delegation. “Through this renewed and furtherempowered collaboration with Popcom covered by this MOU, UNFPA intends to support government efforts to effectively promote sexual and reproductive health and rights not just as an important health issue, but also as a crucial poverty alleviation strategy, in line with Agenda 2030, including sustainable development goals to leave no one behind, and to assist the national and local governments to finish the unfinished agenda of ICPD,” said Iori Kato, UNFPA country representative.

₧63.6-million allotted for FLEMMS and health responsiveness survey

HE Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) will be spending P63.6 million to conduct the Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) and the Health System Responsiveness survey. PSA said the FLEMMS will cost P61.8 million, while the Health System Responsiveness survey will cost P1.8 million. The FLEMMS will cover 45,000 sample households or 144,000 sample individuals, while the Health System

Responsiveness survey will cover a total of 1,700 individuals from 10 selected areas in the country. PSA said the FLEMMS would serve as basis in the formulation of policies and programs on the improvement of literacy and education status of the population. The survey will also estimate the proportion of the population 10 years old and over who are basically literate, i.e., those who can read, write and understand a simple message in any

language or dialect. It also intends to estimate the proportion of the population 10 to 64 years old who are functionally literate, i.e., those who can read, write, compute and comprehend, and to determine their socioeconomic characteristics. PSA said the FLEMMS will also determine the educational skill qualifications of the population in terms of formal schooling and the mass media exposure of the population.

Meanwhile, the Health System Responsiveness survey aims to provide a “comprehensive diagnosis” of the country’s health system responsiveness, as well as its strengths and weaknesses. It aims to describe the nonmedical perception and experience associated with seeking health care and determine health responsiveness across different sections of society, such as sociodemographic variables, health condition and other pertinent variables. Cai U. Ordinario

DILG rolls out Constitutional Reform Roadshow in Pampanga By Ashley Manabat | Correspondent

I T Y O F S A N F E R N A N D O — The Constitutional Reform (CORE) Roadshow of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) was rolled out in this province on Tuesday. DILG P rov i nc i a l D i rec tor My r v i Apostol-Fabia said the road show “aims to communicate clearly to our citizens the government’s comprehensive movement, or the effort to achieve our dream of having a progressive nation.” In line with this, Fabia gave an overview of the four main pillars of the socalled surgical provisions under CORE— Pagyamanin ang Probinsya, Paluwagin ang Metro Manila; Gobyerno para sa Tao, hindi para sa Trapo; Bukas na Ekonomiya nang Lahat ay may Pag-asa; and Bagong Konstitusyon para sa Bagong Henerasyon. DILG Pampanga CORE Program Manager Mark Jason Veran explained the first pillar, which focuses on constitutionalizing the Mandanas ruling of the Supreme Court and the revision of the Internal Revenue Allotment (IR A) sharing criteria, as well as the establishment of the Regional Development

Authority in the hope of decongesting Metro Manila and giving autonomy to the regions. Meanwhile, DILG Pampanga Cluster Team Leader Jose Algy Canlas explained the proposed political party reforms, campaign finance transparency, anti-turncoatism and anti-political dynasty under the second pillar. Cluster Team Leader Renalyn Iglesias explained the economic reform focusing mainly on the removal of the explicit foreign equity limitations under the third pillar. “This aims to prescribe a flexible setup and provide Congress with the power to enact changes as deemed necessary. This will drive more foreign investments which will result to more jobs for the Filipinos,” Iglesias said. In the fourth and last pillar, Iglesias stressed that the constitutional amendments will contribute in meeting the needs and reflecting the aspirations of the present generation. Activities in the road show include a media briefing, town hall meeting with local chief executives, CORE talk with the youth sector and the Balangayan 2019: CORE Convention Rally that was attended by barangay officials.

DOLE: Off-season job fairs yield fewer HOTS By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

HE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) admitted on Thursday that it is anticipating fewer workers to be hired on the spot (HOTS) in its remaining job fairs this year. Bureau of Local Employment (BLE) Director Dominique R. Tutay attributed the trend to the fewer job seekers for November and December, which she said are months considered as “off season” for job fairs. During an ‘off season,’ Tutay recalled HOTS in the job fairs they previously organized would only reach 10 percent. This was the case during DOLE’s 86th anniversary Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhay-

an (TNK) fair at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City on Thursday, where DOLE was only able register a 6.54 percent HOTs as of 3 p.m. that day. O n ly 8 47 job s e e k e r s at te nde d t he e vent , wh ic h of fered 15,0 0 0 job v ac a nc ie s f rom 20 0 pa r t ic ipat i n g employers. Of the said applicants, 59 became HOTS, while 133 became near-hires, or those who need to go through further interview or submit additional applications to be hired. In contrast, Tutay said, for the peak season for job fairs, HOTS usually reach as high as 15 percent to 20 percent. She said the peak seasons are during their Labor Day job fair on May 1 and Independence Day job fair on June 12.

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Friday, November 29, 2019 A5

‘PHL likely to hit growth goal for 2020’

By Bernadette D. Nicolas @BNicolasBM & Jove Moya @BMJoveMoya

HE government will find it easier to hit its GDP growth target for 2020 due to the timely passage of the proposed General Appropriations Act (GAA) for next year, Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said on Thursday. Dominguez said the country’s economic managers are banking on the bicameral conference committee’s swift approval of the P4.1-trillion budget after the Senate green lighted the money measure on third and final reading on Wednesday. “I am happy that the Senate has approved the budget. We now go into the bicam and I now trust this bicam would go quite quickly so we are very confident that by the end of the year we will have our full year budget approved for next year,” Dominguez told reporters in a press conference following the Economic Development Cluster (EDC) meeting. Asked about the chances of the country hitting its growth target next year following the developments related to the money measure, he said, “Of course, that will help greatly.”

However, he said it is not only the budget that is important; there are international risks that should be considered, such as the ongoing trade war between the United States and China. “So far although there are good reports about this trade war getting resolved, I think that’s the good news. I am not sure if those reports are accurate. We hope it will be,” he said.

6 percent goal

FOR this year, the government still hopes the country would at least achieve the lower end of its economic growth target of 6 percent this year despite the four-month delay in the passage of the 2019 budget. Dominguez remained optimistic this would be achieved due to the improvement in government spending in October.

“Well, there are two measures that we hope will get passed this year. First, the “sin” taxes on alcohol and finally the resolution on the taxes for e-cigarettes; and I hope there will be enough time to do the Citira,” —Dominguez

For January to October, total public spending rose by 5.1 percent to P2.94 trillion, from last year’s record. However, Dominguez also revealed that there was a 5.5-percent year-onyear contraction for the January-toOctober period in terms of government spending on infrastructure and capital outlays due to the delay in the passage of the 2019 budget and the election ban. “In the first 10 months of the year, total actual disbursements for infrastructure and capital outlays reached P628.5 billion. This is 73 percent of the 2019 full-year disbursement program of P859.5 billion but 5.5 percent lower than the actual disbursement for the same period of 2018,” he said. Nonetheless, he said the infrastructure agencies, as well as the bigspending departments committed to accelerate disbursements for the rest of the year. Thus, Dominguez said economic managers remain confident of hitting the country’s spending goal of P3.77 trillion for 2019.

To attain the spending goal for the year, Dominguez said the government needs to disburse a total of P832 billion in November and December.

Bullish on Citira

THE Department of Finance also expressed confidence that the proposed Corporate Income Tax and Incentives Rationalization Act (Citira) will be approved by the Senate before year-end. “I hope we can finish it before the end of the year—there are only a few days and there are lots of issues, that’s what might [delay] the implementation, but we think there’s still a fighting chance that the Citira might be approved this year,” said Dominguez. Aside from Citira, Dominguez said they are optimistic the measures increasing the excise taxes on alcohol and e-cigarettes would also be passed this year. “Well, there are two measures that we hope will get passed this year. First, the “sin” taxes on alcohol and finally the resolution on the taxes for e-cigarettes; and I hope there will be enough time to do the Citira,” Dominguez said. The Citira seeks to gradually cut cor porate income ta xes starting 2021, eventually bringing down the current 30 percent to 20 percent by 2029. It would also rationalize fiscal incentives allocated to businesses by putting specific time frames on them, and linking job generation and use of local inputs to certain parameters.

McDonald’s links up with Pasay’s LGU to hire senior citizens, PWDs

O give the elderly an opportunity to earn, McDonald’s Philippines signed a memorandum of agreement with the Pasay City government to hire senior citizens and people with disabilities (PWDs) in 14 restaurants in the city. “This is a shining example of corporate social responsibility. By hiring senior citizens and PWDs, they will be amply rewarded by their customers by patronizing their products,” Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano said following the signing of the agreement. Calixto-Rubiano also lauded the company for hiring the elderly and PWDs in all of their restaurants in the city. “McDonald’s will be attracting more customers because of what it gives back to the community,” the mayor said. Calixto-Rubiano was the principal author of Republic Act 10911, or the “Anti-age Discrimination In Employment Act,” during her term as congresswoman representing the lone district of Pasay. Under the agreement, the fast-food chain will hire 42 senior citizens and PWDs in 14 restaurants in Pasay City. They will all have the opportunity to earn and, at the same time, learn new skills through a training program approved by the Public Employment Service Office (Peso) of Pasay and the Department of Labor and Employment. Meanwhile, McDonald’s said they will also provide the same worldclass training to their directly hired employees. Under the agreement, hired senior citizens and PWDs will be assigned as order presenters, drink drawers and table managers from three to six months. Senior citizens will work for not more than four hours a day, while PWDs will work in shifts that are applied to regular crew members. Interested applicants may apply at the Pasay Peso located at the third floor of the Pasay City Hall. They must bring a medical certificate to prove they are still fit to work despite their age and disabilities. Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco

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Friday, November 29, 2019

Trump signs Hong Kong bill backing protesters; China threatens retaliation

ONALD J. TRUMP signed legislation expressing US support for Hong Kong protesters, prompting China to threaten retaliation just as the two nations get close to signing a phase one trade deal.

China summoned US Ambassador Terry Branstad, with Vice Foreign Minister Le Yucheng telling him to stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs. He warned that such actions would strain ties and risk affecting “cooperation in important areas,” according to a foreign ministry statement, which didn’t give more details. Earlier, the foreign ministry reiterated threats of retaliation with no specifics. The bill requires annual reviews of Hong Kong’s special trade status under American law, as well as sanctions against any officials deemed responsible for human-rights abuses or undermining the city’s autonomy. A second Hong Kong measure also bans the export of crowd-control items, such as tear gas and rubber bullets to the city’s police. While signing the bills, Trump signaled that he didn’t want the broader relationship with China to veer off track. He expressed concerns with unspecified portions of the new law, saying they risked interfering with his constitutional authority to carry out American foreign policy. “I signed these bills out of respect for President Xi [Jinping], China, and the people of Hong Kong,” the president said in a statement on Wednesday. “They are being enacted in the hope that leaders and representatives of China and Hong Kong will be able to amicably settle their differences leading to longterm peace and prosperity for all.” Asian stocks were mixed and US futures slid after Trump signed the bill, while the yen nudged higher and the yuan lower. Hong Kong shares were among the worst performers, though declines were still modest at the open. Investors are looking for any sign that measure will prevent the world’s biggest economies from reaching a deal that could deescalate a trade war that’s dragged on for 20 months. Trump on Tuesday said the two sides were in the “final throes” of a deal that would start to unwind tariffs on about $500 billion in products traded between them. Trump would like the agreement finished in order to ease economic uncertainty for his reelection campaign in 2020, and he has floated the possibility of signing the deal in a farm state as an acknowledgment of the constituency that’s borne the brunt of retaliatory Chinese tariffs. China is also looking to avoid further damage to an economy growing at the slowest pace in decades.

‘Xi wants a deal’

CHINA is irked that the bill will bolster Hong Kong protesters who have become increasingly violent in their bid to secure demands including an independent inquiry into police abuses and meaningful elections, but it probably won’t affect trade talks much, said David Zweig, an emeritus professor at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and director of Transnational China Consulting Ltd. “This is not a fundamental challenge to US-China trade negotiations,” he said. “It’s another notch in US-China hostility, it’s Congress being more assertive than usual, but I think it will be a short-term response, not even a medium-term response. Xi wants a deal, I think.” Hong Kong’s protesters cheered the bill’s passage, and plan to rally in the central financial district on Thursday evening. Joshua Wong, one of the most high-profile activists, lauded Trump for signing it into law and also called on police to retreat from Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where a few demonstrators are left after a nearly two-week siege. Police have said they aren’t sending in officers in riot gear. Trump had little choice but to sign the bill: The House cleared it 417-1 on November 20 after the Senate passed it without opposition, majorities that would allow lawmakers to override any veto by the president. Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican, said the law, S. 1838, would give the US “meaningful tools to deter further influence and interference from Beijing into Hong Kong’s internal affairs.” Speaker Nancy Pelosi said it was crucial for the US to speak up. “If America does not speak out for human rights in China because of commercial interests, we lose all moral authority to speak out elsewhere,” she said in a statement. “In an overwhelming display of bipartisan unity, Congress passed our Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, and I applaud President Trump for signing this critical legislation into law,” Rubio said in a statement. “I look forward to continuing to work with the administration to implement this law.” While many members of Congress in both parties had voiced strong support for the protesters who are demanding greater autonomy for the city, Trump stayed largely silent, even as the demonstrations have been met by rising police violence. Last week, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, called on the president to speak out, saying that “the world should hear from him directly that the United States stands with” the protesters. China’s foreign ministry had repeatedly urged Trump to prevent the legislation from becoming law, warning the Americans not to underestimate China’s determination to defend its “sovereignty, security and development interests.” Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zheng Zeguang summoned the US ambassador, Terry Branstad, on Monday to express “strong opposition” to what the country’s government considers American interference in the protests, including the legislation, according to statement. US and Chinese trade negotiators will continue communicating closely and work toward a phase one deal, Ministry of Commerce Spokesman Gao Feng said at a briefing in Beijing on Thursday. Before a speech at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in Beijing last week, China’s Vice Premier Liu He—the country’s chief trade negotiator—said that he was “cautiously optimistic” about reaching the phase one accord, according to people who attended a dinner and asked not to be identified.

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Editor: Angel R. Calso

US economy looking durable despite risks from trade conflict

ASHINGTON—A series of government reports on Wednesday cast a picture of a steadily growing US economy, fueled by solid consumer spending and defying threats—at least for now—from a US-China trade war and a global slowdown. The Commerce Department estimated that the economy grew at a moderate 2.1 percent annual rate over the summer, slightly better than it had previously estimated. Other reports showed stronger consumer spending and a rebound in orders for big-ticket manufactured goods. For the July to September quarter, the rise in the gross domestic product (GDP), the economy’s total output of goods and services, exceeded the government’s initial estimate a month ago of a 1.9 percent annual rate. A key reason is that businesses didn’t cut back on investment spending as much as first estimated. The economy had begun the year with a sizzling 3.1 percent GDP rate, fueled largely by the now-faded effects of tax cuts and increased government spending. Many analysts worry that GDP growth is slipping in the current October to December quarter to a 1.4 percent annual rate or less as business investment weakens further. But most say the slowdown won’t likely be as severe as it might have been because consumers, who drive about 70 percent of the economy, are signaling that they will likely keep spending through the holiday shopping season and into next year. That spending is being supported by rising incomes and an unemployment rate that is near the lowest levels in a half century. Consumer spending gained some momentum entering the final three months of the year, with spending rising by a 0.3 percent annual rate in October, the fastest monthly pace in three months. And in the US manufacturing sector, which has been struggling with global economic weakness

and damage from the Trump administration’s trade conflicts, orders for high-cost items rebounded in October by a 0.6 percent annual rate after having declined in September. Economists said the flurry of reports depict an economy that is regaining its footing after absorbing threats this year, from the global slowdown to the intensifying trade war with China, which has perpetuated uncertainties for businesses. Many companies have suspended plans to expand and invest. Still, the stock market has set record highs on optimism that at least a preliminary USChina trade agreement can be reached soon. “We still expect GDP growth to slow a little further over the coming months, but the latest data suggest that the slowdown in the fourth quarter won’t be quite as bad as we had previously feared,” analysts at Capital Economics said in a note on Wednesday. The GDP report showed that business investment fell at a 2.7 percent annual rate in the Julyto-September period, the second consecutive decline. Yet, that drop was offset by a solid 2.9-percent gain in consumer spending. Residential investment did rebound to an annual growth rate of 5.1 percent after six consecutive quarters of falling home investment. Analysts attribute that rebound in part to falling mortgage rates. For the full year, economists think GDP w il l ex pand 2.3 percent, down sharply from a 2.9-percent GDP gain in 2018. Last year’s increase had been fueled by the $1.5 trillion tax cut that President Donald J. Trump

pushed through Congress and billions in additional spending for the military and domestic programs. For 2020 as a whole, many economists envision growth of around 2 percent. That would be roughly the annual average that has prevailed since the Great Recession ended in 2009. But it is well below the 3 percent-plus economic growth rates that Trump pledged to achieve with his program of tax cuts, deregulation and America-first trade policies. As recently as several months ago, as US-China trade tensions were escalating, global growth was slowing and financial markets were suffering losses, many analysts worried that the economy might be on the verge of recession. But the Federa l Reser ve, which had raised rates four times in 2018, began cutting rates in July, giving a boost to interest-rate sensitive sectors of the economy. This month, after its third rate cut of the year, the Fed signaled that it would likely keep rates unchanged in coming months unless it saw signs of significant economic weakness. In a speech on Monday, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell expressed an optimistic view about the economy, saying with unemployment near a 50-year low of 3.6 percent, there’s still “plenty of room” for wages to rise and for more Americans to join the work force. Trump has attacked Powell and his colleagues for raising rates last year and for being slow to cut them this year. Heading into the 2020 presidential election, Trump may keep up his Fed attacks, seeing the central bank as a convenient target if the economy starts to falter. But the Fed is widely thought to have achieved its goal of a soft landing in which it’s slowed growth enough to keep the tightest job market in a half century from igniting inflation but not so much as to cause a downturn. “We are in sort of a Goldilocks situation, with an economy that is not too hot or too cold,” said Sung Won Sohn, a professor of economics and finance at Loyola Marymount University. “We are sailing along at a nice pace, and we should enjoy it.” AP

French farmers protest stagnant revenues, unfair competition

ARIS—Rumbling two by two down the ring road around Paris, disgruntled French farmers drove their tractors to the capital on Wednesday to protest stagnant revenues and what they say is unfair global competition. The protest snarled traffic in the Paris area from daybreak to nightfall, as farmers from across the country attempted to use 1,000 tractors to block off access to Paris. It was among several recent farmer protests around Europe driven by growing concerns about maintaining European agricultural traditions and standards. The tractors will remain parked on the highway circling the city until French President Emmanuel Macron agrees to meet with protesters, regional farmers’ union Spokesman Elisa Despiney told The Associated Press. They could remain there for “hours, or maybe days,” she added. By mid-morning, blue and green tractors bearing signs reading “Respond, Macron!” had advanced toward the southwestern edge of the city, taking up two lanes of the highway as police escorted them on motorcycles. They then stalled on the Paris ring road, where some protesters pitched tents and lit fires. Protesters on foot inside the city,

FARMERS block the Paris ring road on Wednesday, November 27, 2019. French farmers are driving tractors into Paris and Lyon to protest stagnant revenues and unfair competition. AP PHOTO/THIBAULT CAMUS meanwhile, blocked off the ChampsElysees and scattered hay across the famous Paris avenue. Police surrounded a group of farmers beneath the Arc de Triomphe, but the actions were peaceful. The French presidency said no meeting between Macron and a delegation of farmers was planned at this stage. However, Agriculture Minister Didier Guillaume agreed to meet with a group of farmers Wednesday evening. Farmers’ grievances include freetrade agreements they say put them at a disadvantage, a government reform that failed to increase their revenues,

and regulations they say hinder the sector’s performance. Damien Greffin, president of the farmers’ union for the Paris region, placed the blame for farmers’ woes squarely on Macron, whom he called the “instrument of these divisions” in an interview with BFM TV. He called on Macron to rally French citizens to support agricultural workers. Farmers have specifically criticized a law passed last year that intended to bolster French agriculture. They say they haven’t seen the increased revenues the government promised. AP

It’s getting more expensive to eat, and economists are worried

OOD prices are climbing fast in the world’s biggest emerging markets, posing a possible inflation threat after months of dormant pressures. Asia’s two largest developing economies face a price surge for staple products—pork in China and onions in India—that are central to consumers’ diets. In Turkey and Nigeria, supply problems are driving up costs, while United Nations data show global food prices rose at the fastest pace in October in more than two years. While the spike is painful for poorer consumers, it hasn’t reached a level to convince central banks to pull the brake on policy easing, as they remain focused on boosting economic growth amid a global slowdown. Average inflation across emerging markets is still at an all-time low, according to a Bloomberg gauge of consumer price indexes. “We think it’s likely they would look through food inflation that is concentrated on a handful of products and driven by idiosyncratic factors,“ said Taimur Baig, managing director and chief economist at DBS Bank Ltd. in Singapore. “Bias toward further monetary and fiscal easing will remain in 2020, in our view.”

Price shock

NEVERTHELESS, the threat of a price shock is real. Nomura Holdings Inc. economists recently warned of three potential triggers of higher food costs—weatherrelated shocks, higher oil prices and a sharp depreciation in the dollar—saying emerging and frontier markets are most at risk since food costs make up a larger portion of their consumers’ income. The key will be whether the increases begin to feed into consumers’ longerterm inflation expectations, which could drive up wages and core inflation in a

spiral, said Sonal Varma, Nomura’s chief economist for India and Asia ex-Japan. “This is a big policy dilemma for central banks, to have supply-side driven higher food inflation while growth is weakening,” Varma said. “The question is: Do central banks believe that this is durable or that it’s transitory?” Here’s how the phenomenon is playing out in key emerging markets:

China

PORK prices doubled in October following massive livestock culls to protect against swine fever, pushing up consumer inflation to 3.8 percent, the highest level since January 2012. Though pork prices have since come off their recent highs, economists expect inflation to peak at 5 percent or 6 percent in January. Inflation at that level could impede central bank efforts to ease monetary policy and boost an economy amid an ongoing trade war and weak domestic demand. In the meantime, swine fever is jumping borders, with neighboring Vietnam culling almost 6 million pigs to prevent the spread of the disease. It hasn’t showed up yet in Vietnam’s CPI—partly because high food prices a year ago have skewed the statistical base—but the impact likely will be reflected in coming months, said Alex Holmes, an Asia economist at Capital Economics Ltd. in Singapore. Live pig prices in November are up almost 30 percent from a year earlier, according to an industry group.

India

IN India, where spikes in the cost of onions have sparked social unrest in years past, a 26 percent year-on-year rise in vegetable prices pushed October headline inflation above the Reserve Bank’s

threshold of 4 percent for the first time in 15 months. That runs up against a central bank intent on easing policy to spur growth. Data due Friday is likely to show India’s gross domestic product grew 4.5 percent in the July to September quarter, its slowest pace since early 2013, according to a Bloomberg survey of economists. The latest Bloomberg survey shows consumer price inflation expected to peak at 4.8 percent in the OctoberDecember period, before tapering off.

Turkey

FOOD inflation hovered near 30 percent in the first quarter and has remained above 15 percent for much of the year, due to a currency crisis in August 2018 coupled with supply-chain issues and a heavy reliance on natural irrigation. The government has taken to buying produce directly from farmers and selling it in cities, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan denouncing alleged pricegougers as traitors and terrorists. Recent droughts in grain-producing provinces raise concerns about possible supply constraints next year, with the central bank expecting food inflation at 11 percent by the end of 2020.

Africa

A REGIONAL drought has curbed food output in some southern African countries. Driven by increases in the cost of corn products, food-price growth has pushed Zambian inflation to a threeyear high, and monthly food inflation in Zimbabwe has reached almost 50 percent as supplies dwindle. In Nigeria, the price of imported rice has surged 7.3 percent since August after President Muhammadu Buhari ordered border closures, partly to counter widespread food smuggling. Bloomberg News

Friday, November 29, 2019

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Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opec+ watchers see extension of deal but no deeper output cuts

NY expectations that Opec and its partners will make deeper cuts to oil production have all but evaporated.

Just one out of 35 analysts and traders in a global survey by Bloomberg predicted that the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies will agree a further reduction when they meet next week.

Most of them expect the 24-nation coalition—which cut output by 1.2 million barrels a day this year to prevent a glut—will decide to prolong their existing supply limits until the middle of 2020. That’s a shift from the start of

this month, when the group’s promises to do “whatever it takes” to balance markets inspired expectations of further action in a more sizable minority. Back then, 9 out of 38 were anticipating a deeper cutback. Much has changed in the meantime. Saudi Arabia, which has been one of the driving forces in the coalition, hasn’t made an attempt to corral fellow members into taking more vigorous action. Riyadh remains frustrated that it has cut output more than twice as much as the kingdom pledged in this year’s agreement, while others such as Iraq and Nigeria have failed to comply with their commitments. Russia, Opec’s largest ally, has been failing to keep its side of the bargain for much of this year. The country pumped an average of 11.244 million barrels a day of crude and condensate from November 1 to 26, according to government data seen by Bloomberg. That’s 54,000 barrels more than its Opec+ cap and, assuming there won’t be a sharp cut in output in the remaining days of November, this will become the eighth month in 2019 of Russia’s noncompliance with the Opec+ deal.

Opec Secretary-General Mohammad Barkindo also signaled that the organization’s outlook for next year has changed. Even though the producer group still sees a surplus of about 650,000 barrels a day in the first half of 2020, Barkindo said that the economic backdrop is “brighter” and estimates shale supplies from the US—the cartel’s main rival—may be lowered substantially. The group and its allies, which pump about half the world’s oil, will meet at Opec headquarters in Vienna on December 5 and 6 to decide on policy going forward. Twenty out of the 35 who responded to this week’s survey predicted that the curbs would be prolonged to June 2020, when the organization will likely meet again for a review. Eight predicted a longer extension, to either September or December. The results were submitted anonymously. The sole respondent expecting a deeper cutback predicted a further reduction of 300,000 barrels a day, which would bring the collective Opec+ oil output curbs to 1.5 million barrels a day. Bloomberg News

New EU Commission chief promises ambitious agenda

RUSSELS—The EU Commission president said on Wednesday her ambitious agenda at the head of the European Union’s executive will center on the “existential issue” of battling climate change. Ursula von der Leyen told the EU plenary in Strasbourg, France, shortly before she and her team of commissioners were approved in vote of 461/157 with 89 abstentions, that she would work on “a European Green Deal” so the EU can continue to be a global leader on the climate-change issue. Von der Leyen said that “climate change is about all of us. We have the duty to act and the power to lead.” She has said that she will come forward with a comprehensive plan within the first 100 days of her tenure, which is set to start on Sunday. Von der Leyen’s move into the position of European Commission, previously held by Jean-Claude Juncker, was delayed after the European Parliament delayed a vote on the appointment of her team because of displeasure with several of the candidate Commissioners on the 27-strong team. The European Commission, the powerful executive arm of the European Union, proposes laws and ensures they are implemented throughout the bloc. On December 1, the same day that von der Leyen takes office, Charles Michel will take over from EU Council President Donald Tusk. And after years when the European Union was on the defensive and had to center on emerging from the financial crisis and the impending departure of the United Kingdom from the bloc, von der Leyen hopes she can center on more positive policies. “Our greatest achievements have come when

EUROPEAN Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivers her speech at the European Parliament on Wednesday, November 27, 2019, in Strasbourg, eastern France. The EU chief will present her team of Commissioners-designate to the European Parliament and discuss the new Commission’s objectives with MEPs AP PHOTO/JEAN-FRANCOIS BADIAS

we are bold,” she said. One issue where she already made major strides is gender balance. The first female Commission president got close to achieve gender balance among her team of commissioners and vowed that “every commissioner will have a gender-balanced Cabinet.” “It will change the face of the Commission,” she said. The major parties backed the new Commission even though the legislature had already flexed its muscle by forcing von der Leyen to change her team and delay the start of her tenure by a month. AP

Germany’s Merkel says it’s essential to preserve Nato

ERLIN—Nato is at least as essential today as it was during the Cold War, Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Wednesday, renewing a pledge to keep raising Germany’s defense spending and arguing that it is important to keep Turkey in the alliance. Merkel told the German parliament before a Nato summit in London next week that “Europe cannot defend itself alone at the moment; we rely on this trans-Atlantic alliance.” “The preservation of Nato is in our very own interest today, more strongly than during the Cold War—or at least as strongly as during the Cold War,” she said. Merkel added that it’s “right for us to work for this alliance and take on more responsibility.” French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent public criticism of Nato—notably a perceived lack of US leadership, concerns about Turkey since it invaded northern Syria without warning its allies, and the need for Europe to take on more security responsibilities—has shaken the alliance. President Donald J. Trump has repeatedly criticized alliance members for not spending enough on defense, and in the past has called Nato “obsolete.” Nato members in 2014 agreed to “aim to move toward” increasing defense spending to 2 percent of gross domestic product by 2024. The US has been particularly critical of defense spending in Germany, which has Europe’s biggest economy. Merkel noted that Germany’s spending has risen

from 1.18 percent at the time of the 2014 decision to a planned 1.4 percent next year. It aims to reach 1.5 percent by 2024 and Merkel said that “people can rely on” Germany hitting 2 percent in the early 2030s. The chancellor acknowledged that “Turkey has become alienated as a member-state within Nato” and that “the United States no longer automatically takes responsibility when things are on fire in our neighborhood.” While there haven’t been any serious suggestions that Turkey should leave Nato, despite a string of differences between Ankara and its partners, Merkel addressed its continued membership head-on. AP

GERMAN Chancellor Angela Merkel delivers a speech during a meeting about the budget 2020 of the German federal parliament, Bundestag, at the Reichstag building in Berlin, Germany on Wednesday, November 27, 2019. AP PHOTO/MICHAEL SOHN

Friday, November 29, 2019 A9

BusinessMirror Special Feature

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ALVEO INTRODUCES FIRST PRIME CONDO IN CLOVERLEAF

time to Makati and BGC down to a 20-minute drive. An integrated transport terminal and proximity to LRT Station Balintawak allows commuters to gain more ground in less time. Centrally located within a 3-kilometer radius from Caloocan, Quezon City, Valenzuela and Malabon, with access via the NLEX-SLEX Skyway, Cloverleaf is a highly strategic location linking the best of Metro Manila to the rest of North Luzon. At the heart of access, worklife balance is within reach.

IVING in the city puts us in a constant state of flux that we often yearn for the comforts of a middle ground—a place to reconnect and recharge. In Chinese philosophy, our life force is the energy that permeates all things, connecting each of us to a greater whole. It is the vital essence that joins all facets of life in the fullness of experience. As with yin and yang, it is in a state of balance that we can tap into our unlimited potential. Life opens doors that lead us to where we can truly flourish, with spaces that immerse us in the flow of every day. Alveo Land sets your sights to a refreshing environment amidst the busy metro in Ayala’s Northern Manila Gateway—harmonizing home, work and play where every turn is an opportunity to thrive.

AYALA’S FIRST POCKET DISTRICT

EASING you into the lifestream of Quezon City, Alveo Land expands its presence in the first pocket urban district of Ayala Land. Cloverleaf is a complete lifestyle des-

HOME RADIATES WITH LIFE

tination where you’re only a few strides away from everything you need. A full range of possibilities unfolds within the 11-hectare mixed-use development, integrating residential communities, business environments and recreation settings in a dynamic whole. Masterplanned for vitality, the district opens new shopping and entertainment concepts at Ayala Malls Cloverleaf. This 2.2-hectare regional mall is fully equipped with a supermarket, cinema complex, and a department store. Highlighting seamless walkability, the pedestrian promenade provides spaces for gathering and leisurely strolls in a refreshing locale. From near to ‘already here’ – you have more time savoring the day-to-day. Dubbed as Ayala’s Northern Manila Gateway, Cloverleaf merges two major thoroughfares of EDSA and A. Bonifacio, with the Skyway Stage 3 Project bringing travel

RIGHT at the center of Cloverleaf, Alveo Land introduces its first development in the area with Sentrove, a 44-storey residential community with prime amenities for dynamic city living. Home imbues life with heightened wellbeing within a secure environment. Bringing balance to every day, Sentrove gives a fresh take to your routine with shared spaces for indoor and outdoor activities. A place to catch up with friends during a lively workout, hang out after office hours, or walk through the meditation garden to unwind. A landscaped amenity deck offers an invigorating atmosphere, ideal for get-togethers or some muchneeded me-time. Retail spaces at the ground level open up to the pedestrian promenade, leading you to wider selections for shopping and leisure at Ayala Malls Cloverleaf and its extension. A seamless retail experience right outside your door. Relax into the comforts of city life and let your energy flow through a full deck of lifestyle choices that refresh mind and body. Every day uncovers life’s treasures at Sentrove, a place to nurture vibrant connections with family and friends in a neighborhood that keeps you close to your roots.

A10 Friday, November 29, 2019 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

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editorial

Irresponsible journalism; not just for ‘kikiam’

F you think that “fake news” and irresponsible journalism are only found on the front pages, you are mistaken. What the public was subjected to this past week with all the unverified and then proven false stories about the Southeast Asian Games is only one example of the “journalism” problem. One journalist stated this week that members of the profession “have to take sides with truth and justice.” Unfortunately, we are witnessing more situations where the press and media have—in their own minds—journeyed for justice. The unfortunate part is that in their quest they have sacrificed truth. Repeated surveys in the past few years have confirmed that the public has lost faith in the press and media. According to a recent Infratest poll, 38 percent of Germans consider the media politically driven and 33 percent consider the media unbelievable. Infratest is a German institute and company that offers psephological (the examination and statistical analysis of elections and polls) and political research that has been in business since 1996. Depending on the country, between 30 percent and 40 percent of the public do not believe and do not trust the press and media. That is a problem. But the more serious problem is that the journalists do not accept the reality and are continuing down a long-term path of bias and promoting a not-so-hidden political agenda. Because the press and media often accept any comment or commentary that supports their political and social bias, truth is not always searched out. Then again maybe chicken sausage does look like kikiam. This sort of journalism is not limited to how many toilets might occupy one comfort room stall. It rears its ugly head in the economic world. In this realm the issues become more clouded. Economic issues are much more complex than if a stadium has plastic chairs or professionally made grandstands. The truth is often not as apparent because of its complexity. Further, economics is a subject that the public is not as familiar about, and someone who sounds like he knows what he is talking about can easily sway public opinion. Here is an example: One Forbes magazine contributor lists his qualifications to speak about the Philippine economy as the chairman of the Department of Economics of a New York college. Earlier this year he wrote that “President Rodrigo Duterte could turn the Philippines into the land of easy money.” That is a reasonable thought if interest rates were pushed too low to accommodate cheap government borrowing. But then he writes, “President Duterte appointed political ally Benjamin Diokno to head the country’s Central Bank, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas [BSP].” The writer then says that the “markets have been unsettled by Diokno’s appointment” using only our local stock market as proof. That is blatantly false. In fact, the stock market went up for several days after the Diokno appointment. Further, it would not matter if Duterte and Diokno were twins separated at birth, as the man is eminently qualified for the position as have been all previous BSP Governors. What is only important to this journalist is “Duterte ally bad.” If someone thinks it is kikiam, then it is kikiam as long as it fits the political agenda narrative. Since 2005

BusinessMirror A broader look at today’s business

‘Pinyapel:’ How innovation works Sonny M. Angara

BETTER DAYS

HE pineapple has a unique place in Philippine tradition. Aside from being a delicious food source, we have the myth of the pineapple’s origin, or how it used to be a girl who loved to procrastinate and lazy enough to look for things—hence its thousand eyes. Its leaves are also the source for piña fabric, specifically the stiff fibers in the leaves. It is a labor-intensive process, but from this comes what has been called the “Queen of Philippine fabrics.” Thankfully, as of February 2018, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts was organizing stakeholders so that piña production will be included in the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. There’s more: our country’s love affair with the pineapple has now reached a new level, so to speak, with the production of “pinyapel.” It is a specialty reinforced paper developed by the Design Center of the Philippines’s Materials Research and Development, in conjunction with local raw material suppliers and converters. It is print-viable, and can be used for some packaging applications, such as gift bags, paper cup sleeves and corrugated paper. It is produced from discarded pineapple leaves, which go through a pulping process. Reinforcing solutions are then added to improve the pinyapel’s mechanical

properties. After the pinyapel products are discarded, they can be used again as raw materials, in turn, for brown bags and cardboard products. Pinyapel has already won a Wood Pencil at the 2019 Design & Art Direction Future Impact Awards in New York City, because of its positive effect on the environment and overall sustainability. Specifically, it can be used as an alternative to single-use plastic in food packaging. It will also be placed on the D&AD Future Impact Accelerator program, which will hasten development so that the material can be rolled out with tangible results within a year. Winning

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to create more alternatives, then not only has our country improved itself, it is also helping address a serious global concern. This, too, is the essence of “Tatak Pinoy.” Pinyapel highlights the ingenuity, creativity and capacity for innovation of the Filipino. It has the potential to create a global demand for a Filipino product. If the industrial push is successful, it will improve the company’s economic productivity and competitiveness, and will address, in part, poverty and inequality through the generation of jobs. As I have said before, we have a wealth of resources that have yet to be tapped or fully utilized. We just have to innovate and promote our products and services to the world. I fully encourage that all stakeholders in various provinces talk about how local resources can be seen in a new light, and how the process of innovation and new production techniques can be applied to create improved products, or utterly new ones. In doing this, the country can move forward to address the challenge of becoming a larger presence in the global economy. Sen. Sonny Angara has been in public service for 15 years—nine years as representative of the Lone District of Aurora, and six as senator. He has authored and sponsored more than 200 laws. He recently won another term in the Senate. E-mail: sensonnyangara@yahoo.com|Facebook, Twitter and Instagram: @sonnyangara.

When one picks the wrong house to break into

✝ Ambassador Antonio L. Cabangon Chua Publisher

the award also attracts the eyes of creatives and investors. The Design Center began with the idea of maximizing agricultural waste, with the intent of offering profits for the farmers, making efficient use of natural resources, coming up with an alternative to plastics and, finally, collaborating with stakeholders to come up with a material that creatives and designers can use. It is a very good example of how our local knowhow in using pineapple leaves was developed and extended into a new production space, that of recyclable materials—and even better, a recycled material that can be recycled one more time after its use. It is hard to imagine how our knowledge of using pineapple leaves for a luxurious fabric for barongs could have been applied in another way to produce a replacement for single-use plastics, but that is innovation—to come up with new ideas. In this case, our national knowledge of pineapple-based fabric allowed us to think of how to use pineapple leaves in a new and environmentally meaningful way. To put it in perspective, the United Nations Environment Programme estimates that single-use plastics make up 36 percent of more than 400 million tons of plastic produced every year. If pinyapel can make meaningful inroads into lowering single-plastic use, either as an alternative product or as an inspiration

RECENT news reported that an intruder broke into the house of an 82-year-old grandmother in Rochester, New York, last week while she was preparing for bed. She narrated to the investigators that she heard heavy pounding on her door close to midnight and when she refused to let the man in, the man was incensed and forced his way inside. Hiding in the dark, she whacked the intruder with a table as the man walked around the house. She also hit him several times with a piece of metal. The responding police officers found the poor guy severely beaten black and blue. The grandma who works out in the gym everyday is a former champion bodybuilder and can lift objects double her weight. Explaining her situation to the police, she said: “It’s kind of semidark and I’m alone, and I’m old. But guess what, I’m tough; he picked the wrong house to break into.” This Christmas, when Santa Claus comes to Rochester neighborhood, he should knock and identify himself properly when he brings gifts to the tough lady. nnn

INSUR ANCE claimants can do various ways to make insurers pay their claims. Some complain to the

regulator or media while others resort to threats. It is also common to seek the intervention of influential personalities like government officials, including Malacañang to facilitate the settlement of the claim. On the other hand, some companies engage in unfair claims settlement which is actually an offense under the Insurance Code. A common gripe raised by claimants against insurers is the imposition of unreasonable requirements to establish the occurrence of the risk

or contingency insured against. For instance, there was a time when the submission of the death certificate alone was not sufficient to prove the fact of death of the deceased insured. Some years back, a syndicate operated in one remote municipality which manufactured death certificates used to document the dubious death of a nonexistent insured person. Several life companies had been victimized resulting to stricter claims settlement procedures. Companies employed claims investigators that looked into suspicious claims to combat insurance fraud. Thus, it was not unusual for the claim investigators to interview attending physicians and neighbors of the alleged deceased and even take photographs of the corpse and the tomb. While this is now a thing of the past in our country, it seems that insurance claimants in other parts of the world are still grappling with this problem. In KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa, relatives of a deceased person were filmed taking the corpse into the office of Old Mutual Insurance when their claim for death benefit was not acted upon on time. The body was placed inside a body bag. The insurer explained that they needed more evidence that the insured was dead before settling the claim. The company apologized and

immediately paid the claim. nnn

THANKSGIVING, which is held every fourth Thursday of November, is perhaps the most celebrated annual holiday in the United States. It is nondenominational and secular so it is probably more popular than Christmas. The first recorded Thanksgiving was the harvest feast shared by the pilgrims at Plymouth in Massachusetts, and the native Wampanoag people in 1621. The first Thanksgiving feast was served by five women who arrived aboard the Mayflower the previous winter. The five prepared and served the food with the help of the native women. About 50 pilgrims and 90 natives joined the celebration, which lasted for three days. Thanksgiving was traced to the earlier harvest festival to celebrate a bountiful harvest. Later, favorable political and military events became occasions for Thanksgiving proclamations. The traditional fare of the Thanksgiving meal consists of roast turkey, potatoes, cranberries and pumpkin pie. The bread stuffing is a delicacy that you may not like the turkey, but for sure you will like the bread it ate. Vehicular traffic during the Thanksgiving week is the busiest of the year since family members who live far apart gather with their See “Dooc,” A11

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Resiliency and sustainability Some triumphs and the solitude of Kristian Cordero in the face of industry 4.0 Tito Genova Valiente

ANNOTATIONS

Marjorie Muyrong

EAGLE WATCH Conclusion

AST week, the link between the economy and ecology was explored as premise to answering the question of how the Philippines must rethink its development strategies. After all, adaptation and mitigation to climate change is most urgent in a country directly facing the Pacific. However, equally valid is the country’s desire to adapt new technologies already available abroad as part of its growth agenda. It is also hopeful that the Filipino people are concerned about potential labor displacement with industry 4.0. The question that remains is whether these new technologies set to be adopted all over the world support sustainable development and would not further aggravate the situation of those populations already vulnerable to climate change.

Dilemma of sustainable development

THE dilemma of sustainable development in the Philippines lies in the fact that our climate-change problems are caused by the warming of the entire planet, and this worldwide warming is caused by the actions of everyone in this planet. Unfortunately for the Philippines, our contribution to global warming in terms of greenhouse-gas emissions does not compare to the damage caused by typhoon exposure. While the Philippine emissions in 2014 was at 106.9 metric tons, China contributes the most at 10,328.7 MT, which is around 30 percent of all emissions. However, even if the Philippines remains to be a low carbon-emitter, our country experiences the brunt of climate-change impacts. In February 2013, an empirical study linking windspeed exposure to socioeconomic variables was published. The study found that, on average compared to families who did not experience typhoons, income of families exposed to typhoons is lower by 6.6 percent, thereby leading to human capital disinvestments. In November that year, Supertyphoon Yolanda (Haiyan) hit the Philippines, causing impacts that Filipinos in Leyte and Samar provinces have not fully recovered from until now. In December 2015, the Philippines, led by then Ateneo School of Government dean Tony La Viña, sent a 158-member delegation to the 21st Conference of Parties (dubbed as COP21) in Paris, France, that ultimately led to the Paris Agreement. During these negotiations, the country’s negotiators fought to set the limit of global warming only until 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial age and not until 2.0°C. Unfortunately, this year, the Duterte administration had announced that it will no longer send delegates to climate talks, even when a more recent empirical study in 2018 from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies links rainfall shocks with poverty.

Way forward

ECONOMIC growth has always been linked with capital accumulation and technological advancement. Understandably, countries would want to be part of the industry 4.0 bandwagon. Economic growth is simply the expansion of production. It therefore relies on the ability of labor and capital in transforming raw materials into higher-value goods. Economists have always ignored the role of natural resources

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folks. It’s the time for family bonding, good food and fine drinks and football. Thanksgiving was not an official holiday until the editor of a popular magazine, Sarah Josepha Hale, convinced President Abraham Lincoln to proclaim the fourth Thursday of November as the National Thanksgiving Day to promote unity. Every president after Lincoln annually proclaimed the holiday on the same day but President Franklin Delano Roosevelt changed it to

in the equation, and its perceived abundance has been the usual explanation for ignoring the role of natural resource capital in production. However, ignoring land as another factor of production like labor and capital ignores how land is also able to transform seeds into crops. Ignoring marine resources means forgetting how the vast blue seas allow fish to grow from fingerlings. Mother Earth has always been an economic producer herself. In September this year, Pope Francis sent a video message to the participants of the UN Climate Action Summit held in New York. In his message, the Pope linked our climate and environmental problems “with the human, ethical and social degradation that we experience every day.” He then called us to “think about the meaning of our models of consumption and production, and the processes of education and awareness, to make them consistent with human dignity.” There is also the Ling Jiou Mountain Buddhist Society, a Taiwan-based group of Buddhist monasteries founded by Chan Master Hsin Tao, which aims to establish the University for Life and Peace in Myanmar, as an educational institution that would respond to the ecological crisis. In January 2019, they invited a group of professors and researchers from various fields of study from across the world for the first Experimental Winter School at Yangon, Myanmar. At the end of two weeks, there was agreement among the researchers that changing economic behavior would require changing mentality in everyday life. The dilemma of sustainable development is understandably difficult. Rethinking our development strategies, therefore, require strategies beyond economic planning. It requires changing economic thinking at the global scale. People across the world must change their consumption behavior if we hope to lessen the climate-change impacts at home. We must, therefore, rethink our participation in climate talks. We must also rethink how we teach basic economics. Perhaps, most important of all, we must rethink the power of the ordinary people in bringing about change. So, how do we harness that power? Marjorie Muyrong is a PhD Sociology student at La Trobe University. She is currently on-leave from Ateneo de Manila University as an instructor of the Economics Department. In January 2019, she joined the two-week 2019 Experimental Winter School at Yangon, Myanmar.

the third Thursday of November to extend the Christmas shopping season and boost the economy, which was then suffering from depression. Eventually, this effort resulted in a nationwide shopping spree that is now called Black Friday, the day when all shops conduct sales at substantial discounts. But not all states complied, so FDR returned the date to the fourth Thursday of November. A teacher asked her students: “What should you be thankful for?” Joseph raised his hand, and answered: “I am thankful that I’m not a turkey.” Happy Thanksgiving to all!

HE night before he left for Manila, and then for Bangkok, Kristian Sendon Cordero was talking about translating a poem. It was his poem. “An old one,” he said, perhaps to excuse in advance about the old form and old theme. It reeked of the scent of that old book called Bible. Someone has requested from him any poem to include in an anthology. But the poem must be translated in English. He was looking at me and then to Jusan, one of the younger writers who frequented Kristian’s bookstore, Savage Mind. Before we could reply to his gaze, he told us he would read the poem. The title was: “An Kapungawan kan Babaying Raot-Raot an Payong.” Without telling him, right there I translated the title to “The Loneliness of the Woman Carrying a Battered Umbrella.” That was some nights ago. Tonight, I am writing about Kristian because he is the recipient of the Southeast Asian Writer’s Award this year. For three years, the award was not given in Thailand. This year, it was announced it would be given, and it was. Because of the delay, the recipients for the last three years were together facing the Thai royalty. From the Philippines, the SEAWrite awardees are Bien Lumbera, already our National Artist for Literature, Ricardo de Ungria, poet and academic, and Kristian. I would not have written this essay about Kristian until I saw the photos of the awardees receiving with humility (for that was vivid on photo) the Prize from the Princess. This was big deal, the real deal. This was grand. And a writer writing in a regional language—Bikol—was to be given the recognition. Here are some passages from the citation given to Kristian: An opulence of talent, a consistency of excellence, and a seemingly bottomless wellspring of energy, all in his chosen arts of poetry, fiction, essay, translation, film and scholarship, in the context of Filipino multilingual culture and artistic production from the regions and away from the socioeconomic center of Manila, distinguish Kristian Sendon Cordero’s literary and artistic accomplishments at quite a young age of 34. The citation continues: Cordero fortifies and enriches his multifaceted cultural leadership role in his various capacities as an academic and arts advocate, a deputy director

of a university press, a translator and scholar, and as poet and filmmaker, among others. The citation proceeds from hereon to articulate each facet of Cordero: It states that, as an academic and arts advocate based in the region, apart from teaching literature in the Ateneo de Naga University, Cordero actively performs in the Bikol literary and cultural scene… It also says how, in many a sense, he continues to be one of the moving spirits in the Bikol literary and cultural renaissance now acknowledged as taking place in his region, which is one of the firsts in contemporary Philippine culture. The long citation mentions Kristian’s work as a translator: Cordero is indefatigable in searching out translation and multilingual projects through international networking and liaison that have involved various foreign embassies and resulted in joint publications in such languages as Czech, Spanish, and German, among others, with either Bikol or Filipino translations. It then concludes by stressing: Finally, as one of the Philippines’s leading poets writing in the Filipino national language and in his regional Bikol, Cordero is an exemplar in exploring and stirring the Filipino imagination through his distinctive use of language and various means of poetic expression, and his unflagging literary production. With the award, Kristian follows an eminent list of other Bikolano writers who were honored with the SEAWrite Award. They are: Marne Kilates, poet and translator from Daraga, Albay, who received it in 1998; fictionist and critic Elmer Ordoñez, critic and fictionist from Juban, Sorsogon, who was honored in 2008; and Abdon M. Balde Jr., fictionist and essayist from Oas, Albay recognized in 2009. Contrary, however, to the impression and expectation of many, the award considered to be one of the most prestigious literary prizes in the region, makes the poet, writer or artist more accessible. It allows us to see the writer in society. Writing being solitary, any prize or recognition allows the writer to be caught with his art. It enables the

Living as one Rev. Fr. Antonio Cecilio T. Pascual

SERVANT LEADER

ROTHERS and sisters, on November 20, we commemorated “Red Wednesday” to remember our fellow Christian brothers and sisters who were abused and slain because of their faith. In the previous week, the Catholic Church in the Philippines opened the Year of Ecumenism, Interreligious Dialogue and Indigenous Peoples with the theme “Dialogue Towards Harmony.” We can say the two events are our Church’s observance to Jesus’ prayers in the book of John 17:21, “that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that You have sent me.” According to Religious Freedom in the World Report 2018, 19.3 percent, or 38 of the 196 countries included in the report, had religious freedom violations. From the 38 countries, 17 were included in the discrimination category because of the institutionalization of intolerance or having policies that outwardly strangle citizens based on their religion and faith. Meanwhile, 21 countries fall under the persecution category because of

evident attacks from groups using their religion to ruin possessions of those who do not share their belief, in order to expel these people from their homes and to take their lives. Added in the report, 80 percent of all acts of tyranny rooted from religion in the world is directed against Christians. We continuously see this in countries, such as Syria and Iraq. Here in the Philippines, some of the harsh incidents in parts of Mindanao are being related to the Christians

reader to see the writer as contributing to his communities. The writer does not need—let it be said—to form a society or craft a community so that he could observe and write about social affairs. He remains singular by being single and in solitude. Separate, he avoids the hierarchy that regional writers’ group burden themselves inconsolably. No more “Mother of that Literature;” no more “Father of that Form.” I see it in his writings, this rupture. I sense it in his intimacy with perspectives, those lenses that change the world not out of language but of position. We all could see it that night, as he read the poetry about the woman carrying a battered umbrella. That night, he read in his Bikol tongue the lines that were neither poetry or prose. “Form is an illusion,” he said once. Formalism does not help form art. In his poem, the woman appears to observe the shifting of seasons. But there are many other voices. “Multivocalic.” And there are many meanings. “Polysemy.” He heeds his grandfather who once cautioned him about animals that are varicolored: they are most poisonous. And, in his poetry, the woman with umbrella disappears and in her place is the First Woman who listen to the Snake and from where burst forth the terrible beauty of the beginning of our mortality. Kristian, in his poetry, talks about

how long time ago, the season started consuming beauty. Will the season or Time spew the allure it ingested? Kristian asks terrible questions because he is alone. His solitude is a lonesomeness that has nothing to do with the heart. It has something to do with setting out, the pagtandayag. The Serpent/Tandayag sees the Cave has become too small for him. He pushes the rocks and they crumble as the Serpent makes it way to the deep sea. Tonight, I look at the poem again, the verse about Kapungawan and decide that it has nothing to do with loneliness. It is all about a majesty of distance, when in severance, one sees everything and asks everything about the universe, the universe where flowers cast shadows, and clotheslines are skeletons splattered with mud and where rains fall like purutol na gigis or amputated little fingers. Noah is here in the poem, too, and the prophetic rainbow. Kristian sees the covenant and, if it is not there, he invents it, imagines it and writes about it. He tells us that, not Art, but Time is long and the woman in her lonesomeness, the woman with an umbrella beaten and broken, pleads to all to seek shelter because—dakul pang uranon—there are more rains to come. That we are to seek refuge from many things— from growing old, from the longing, hunger and memories of this Earth. Kristian, you deserve the Prize. Congratulations, my dear friend.

who live there. Although Christianity is said to be the religion with the biggest number of faithful in the world, it also has the biggest number of persecuted faithful. Nevertheless, Christians aren’t the only ones who experience discrimination. From the independent international peacebuilding organization International Alert, there are countries that prohibit Muslim women from wearing their hijab in schools and offices. Some Muslims are also required to replace their names in their résumés to have job opportunities. Here in our country, there is a barrier in freedom of speech regarding their culture and faith from the closing of over 60 Lumad schools in Mindanao because of accusations that these facilities are being used for terrorism. Because of this, almost 1,000 Lumad youth have stopped schooling. Brothers and sisters, the Holy Church’s calling is the dialogue between all religions and faiths. Being open in dialogue unfolds the chance to find the space for unity and cooperation. Different religions share a great responsibility in achieving world peace, and this comes from the truth of celebrating our hopes to further advocate the dignity and

wellness of man. Let us realize the hopes of Pope Francis and Grand Imam AhmadTayyeb in their letter, entitled “A Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together,” published in February. In this letter, the two leaders call upon us to become instruments of their united voice in reconciliation of all faithful, even those who do not belong to any religion. Their resolution through this letter hopefully becomes the way to overthrow cruelty, and enrich sympathy and empathy that all religions propagate. They also hope that all religions reconcile with the belief that we are all created by God to understand, help, and love one another. Brothers and sisters, in the end, the similarities of religions are far greater than their differences. And hopefully one of these similarities is eliminating any form of discrimination and persecution. Let us believe that understanding, connecting, and living with one another is possible.

E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com

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A12 Friday, November 29, 2019

‘Hand-carrying’ of millions of dollars probed ₧6B

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz

@joveemarie

HE chairman of the House Committee on Games and Amusements has disclosed that some individuals are easily “hand-carrying” millions of dollars into the Philippines.

ACT-CIS Rep. Eric Go Yap, the panel chairman, claimed this has been happening for the past several months. “The money, which entered the country in September and October, have reached P6 billion and this is a possible money-laundering scheme,” he said during the Bureau of Customs (BOC) briefing before the House Committee on Ways and Means on Wednesday. However, the lawmaker sees nothing wrong with the huge amount of cash being hand-carried

The peso equivalent of the millions of dollars that supposedly entered the country in September and October, according to a lawmaker who flagged a “possible moneylaundering scheme,” at a Bureau of Customs briefing for the House

by Filipinos but added, “we should be wary of what it’ll be used for.” “The P6 billion were hand-carried by Filipinos [with same surname]

from Hong Kong and Singapore, and they were on economy class flight. They declared that the money will be used for casino [playing],” Yap said. Currently, Yap said carrying more than the allowable cash limit into the country is not entirely illegal under Philippine laws. He said a passenger only needs to declare it and sign up forms including questions about their identity and the reasons for carrying that much amount. “It would be okay to spend here

in our country, it would help the country’s economy. But what if they use it for destablization or terrorism?” he said. With this, Yap said it is high time to introduce reforms to regulate the bringing in of cash in the country. He said he will ask the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the Bureau of Customs to set parameters, as well as draft a bill on hand-carried cash entering the Philippines. See “Dollars,” A2

SEA Games probe: ‘No sacred cow’ Senate OKs ISKO’S VOW: TO FINISH FIRST ISLAMIC CEMETERY pay hike IN MANILA BY MID-2020 for nurses By Bernadette D. Nicolas

@BNicolasBM

ALACAÑANG on Thursday vowed that there will be “no sacred cow” in the Office of the President’s investigation on the alleged incompetence and fraud surrounding the country’s hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games. This, as it also sided with critics in calling out the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) to “perform better” in the country’s hosting of the biennial multisport event following complaints of several athletes not being fed properly, as well as the inconvenience they had to go through

because of logistical problems. “There is no sacred cow in this government. We have been repeatedly saying that. Those who transgress the law would be accountable,” Panelo said in a Palace briefing when asked if the Palace is also willing to punish Phisgoc Chairman and House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, a close ally and running mate of the President in the 2016 elections. Moreover, the Palace said the President’s track record of firing his friends and allies in the Cabinet speaks for itself. Panelo said a separate probe will be conducted by the Office of the President “immediately after the Games” even as the Senate also intends to conduct an inquiry on the

NORTHEAST MONSOON AFFECTING NORTHERN AND CENTRAL LUZON as of 4:00 pm - November 28, 2019

issues hounding the organization of the event. “An array of criticisms has been made on how Phisgoc has handled the logistics of this momentous event, and these should be accepted and considered in order to rectify the errors it has committed. The critics have a point. There is indeed something wrong with the preparations,” Panelo said in a separate statement. “While organizing multisport events has always been complex for host countries, with inevitable problems arising before and during the Games due to the number of athletes, staff and sporting officials participating, the Philippine See “Sea Games,” A2

HE Senate approved Wednesday a long-awaited basic salary increase for nurses in state-run hospitals. Saying the pay hike was “welldeserved,” Sen. Richard Gordon confirmed that P3.173 billion “shall be appropriated to upgrade the salaries of Nurse I and Nurse II positions.” In a statement, Gordon lauded the Senate action, saying “nurses deserve the approval to properly implement Section 32 of Republic Act 9173 or The Philippine Nursing Act of 2002.” The proposal is to set the minimum base pay for nurses working in government hospitals and health institutions so that they start at salary grade 15 or P31,545 per month. “For a long time, the nurses of the country have been clamoring for the adjustment of their salaries,” the senator said, adding: “They are given low-paying jobs with no benefits, and hospitals have taken advantage of this system in a way that these hospitals become stepping stones for nurses to work abroad.” He said the Senate action manifests the lawmakers’ support for the nursing sector, recognizing “its vital role to public health and realizes the need for health-care workers in the country, especially in the countryside.” Gordon filed the enabling bill in July, to amend Republic Act 9173 or The Philippine Nursing Act of 2002, stressing the need for “a new comprehensive policy for Filipino nurses that will give them opportunities to advance themselves in the nursing field while they serve the country’s growing needs for healthcare professionals.” The senator added: “ We’re so much closer to giving that justice not just to our nurses, but to our people in need of better health care.” Butch Fernandez

PHL grid. . . Continued from A1

Another lawmaker, Sen. Risa Hontiveros, called for a full-blown investigation. NGCP President and Chief Executive Officer Anthony L. Almeda suggested a visit by legislators and an independent party to personally see how the power grid is managed and operated. “We are happy to welcome our senators and congressmen, as well as an independent third party to visit our facilities in order to dispel any security concerns that had been raised these past few days,” Almeda said. “There is nothing to be alarmed about the stake by the SGCC in NGCP as its investment is limited only to being a technical adviser,” he said.

DOE: Healthy discussion MEANTIME, the Department of Energy (DOE) welcomed the strong public attention, as well as the ensuing discussions on national security concerns surrounding the NGCP. Together with Transco, the DOE said Thursday that it will actively take part in the Senate inquiries that will be scrutinizing these issues.

By Roderick L. Abad

@rodrik_28

ANILA Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso vowed on Thursday that the city government will finish the construction of his proposed cemetery exclusively for Muslims by June of 2020. “God is merciful and I’m keeping my fingers crossed that He will give me strength so I can really finish it at least mid-part of next year,” he said in both Filipino and English during a forum held at the Far Eastern University (FEU) in Sampaloc. The local chief executive thought of putting up a resting place dedicated for the Islamic faithful when he assumed office in July of this year. “I don’t understand that there are Chinese and Filipino cemeteries, but not a Muslim cemetery in Manila. Ironically, we, Manileños, are maharlikans [or of royal-blooded],” he said of the city residents’ descent, while referring to Rajahs Matanda, Lakandula and Sulayman, among others, the native rulers of Maynilad, then a Muslim Kingdom on the southern delta of the Pasig River. “It’s saddening that we tend to forget our past. We still have Muslim brothers and sisters living in Manila. Where are they? They are in Tondo, Parola, Baseco, San Andres, Quiapo, San Miguel and portions of Santa Ana,” he noted. Quiapo hosts one of the country’s biggest mosques. “We do not want to preempt the outcome of the Senate inquiries. In addition, we would also like to highlight that since matters of national security are involved, the proper protocol to be observed is to have our National Security Council [NSC] as the primary source of information,” the DOE said. The agency also said that it is in close coordination not only with Transco, but with all relevant government agencies, most especially the NSC, to ensure that all crucial data, as well as potential measures to be undertaken are reported to the President accordingly. The DOE and Transco said that they are fully supportive of the Senate’s interest to take a closer look at the administrative, operational, and procedural structures existing within the NGCP. “We consider the Senate hearings as a positive development toward the long overdue and much needed audit of NGCP, as well as the comprehensive reexamination of the Franchise Agreement, which is part of the Presidential directive to review all government contracts that appear to be onerous. These steps would facilitate the introduction of all necessary amendments to uphold our national security and the welfare of our citizens and consumers,”

According to Domagoso, he also considered building a resting place for them since those Muslims who passed away would have to be transported to burial sites, either in Bulacan, Taguig, or Mindanao because there is no such kind of cemetery in Manila, at present. “It’s literally unfair,” the mayor said. “It doesn’t have to be big since we lack space. But they have to feel it. They have to notice it so that they will not feel that they are always neglected. Don’t give them a reason to hate us. Don’t give them a reason to find an excuse. Make them feel that they are part of the City of Manila.” A first for the country’s capital, the planned Muslim graveyard will have its own entry gate and a mosque. It will also have a washroom since part of an Islamic ritual of burying is to wash the dead’s body. Domagoso clearing operations within the vicinity of the Manila South Cemetery, where the Muslims’ resting place will be built, are about to be finished. Soon to follow is the construction. This will be funded by the city government for an unisclosed amount. “We can hire imams [or Muslim religious leaders],” he said, as they will guide the project, the public auction together with other community members. Likewise, they will be consulted to guarantee that Muslim traditions will be followed in the whole process and, eventually, tapped to take care of the place once it is operational. said the DOE. Since 2009 when NGCP took over the operations and management of the national transmission system, the average transmission rates have dramatically gone down from 79 centavos per kilowatt-hour (P0.79/kWh) to 56 centavos per kilowatt-hour (P0.56/ kWh) in 2018. Recently, NGCP announced that it has set aside P463 billion in fresh capital for the modernization and expansion of the power grid in the next 10 years. It brings its total investment to P651 billion from P188 billion in the past 10 years of linking power generators and distribution utilities to deliver electricity through the network of interconnected transmission towers and substations. It has also built 5,626 transmission structures and 2,472 circuit-kilometers of transmission lines and installed 10,978 MegaVolt-Amperes of substation capacity. Should there be an investigation, consumer advocate Laban Konsyumer Inc. commented on Wednesday that “this issue should not be a distraction to the more mundane issue of additional supply of power which is more urgent for resolution.”

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A24 Friday, November 29, 2019

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If you have any information / objection to the above mentioned application/s, please communicate with the Regional Director thru Employment Promotion and Workers Welfare (EPWW) Division with Telephone No. 400-6011.

ATTY. SARAH BUENA S. MIRASOL REGIONAL DIRECTOR

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph Republic of the Philippines

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT Regional Office No. IV-A 4th Flr. Andenson Bldg. II, Brgy. Parian, Calamba City Telefax No.: (049) 545-7362 November 29, 2019

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. QINGLIANG HE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. LONG ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. LEE PEI YE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XUEWEI WU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. YUNPIAO WU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. DONGWEN LIAO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. YANG FU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. DEYOU XIE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. KUNMING ZHENG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. BING GU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. HAIBING CHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. YUANHAO DU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XU HAN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. ZHENGYING XIE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. SHUANG LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. BAOYAN WEN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. MENGNAN NIU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. GUANGLONG CHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. FULEI ZHENG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JING XU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. ERRUI DONG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. PEIXIN HE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XIAOGANG LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. ZHIRONG HE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. WEIJIE LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. HAORAN CHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. JIARONG HE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JIXIANG LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. ZHENGWEI HE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. GUOYAN WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

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

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Brief Description of Functions

KINPO ELECTRONICS (PHILIPPINES), INC. LTC-SEZ, Lipa City, Batangas

MR. PO-WEI WU / Taiwanese

SCHLEMMER PHILIPPINES INC. GAP-SEZ, Brgy. Don Jose, Santa Rosa City, Laguna

MR. GEGE NIE / Chinese

FRANKHAUS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION Philec Road Brgy. Dolores, Taytay, Rizal

MR. FANGQI LIU / Chinese

DAELIM PHILIPPINES, INC. (MAUBAN) Brgy. Cagsiay 1, Mauban, Quezon

MR. HYUN SONG / Korean

CHINA SOUTHEAST ASIA ELECTRICAL POWER CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION San Rafael, Calaca, Batangas

MR. SHENGCHUAN LIANG / Chinese

CHINA SOUTHEAST ASIA ELECTRICAL POWER CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION San Rafael, Calaca, Batangas

MR. XITANG LI / Chinese

YEGA GARDEN RESORT INC. Brgy. San Jose, Mabini, Batangas

MR. HYO SEUNG CHOI / Korean

Sales Marketing Manager

YEGA GARDEN RESORT INC. Brgy. San Jose, Mabini, Batangas

MR. JONG YEOL SEO / Korean

Chief Operating Officer

ECORENEW PHILIPPINES INC. LT-SEZ, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. ASHLEY THOMAS CONNOLLY / British

Web Development Manager

NISSEN PHILIPPINES, INC. SEZ, Maguyam Road., Silang, Cavite

MR. TATSUYA GO / Japanese

Admin Supervisor

CASTEM PHILIPPINES CORPORATION CEZ, Rosario, Cavite

MR. YOSHIHIDE NAGAKUBO / Japanese

LUK FOO INTERNATIONAL CUISINE Mr. KAT MING HO / INC. Chinese Magdalo (Putol/Potol), Kawit, Cavite

JT INTERNATIONAL ASIA MANUFACTURING CORP. LTC-SEZ, Malvar, Batangas

MR. RAMY HIRMY BIN BOSTAMIN / Malaysian

Electronics Instructor

C-JOY POULTRY MEATS PRODUCTION, INC. Brgy. Sta. Teresita, Santo Tomas, Batangas

MR. JUGAL KISHORE SHARMA / Indian

Value Realizations Office Lead

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. TIAN YU/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. HONGLIANG JIANG/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XIN CHEN/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. LIJIANG XIE/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. BING TANG/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. BIN WENG/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JIANHUI LIAO/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. XIAODAN ZHAO/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. BAO ZHANG/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. GUILIN LIU/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. BO HU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. YICHONG LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. LIN LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JINGSONG HE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

Senior Deputy Administrator

Assistant General Manager

Technical Patter Maker

Commissioning Operation Specialist

Boiler Fabrication Supervisor

Position(s): Site Supervisor Nationality

Vice President- Treasurer/ Plant Manager Chinese Cuisine Specialist

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

Friday, November 29, 2019 A25

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A26 Friday, November 29, 2019

Name and Address of Company/Employer

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Brief Description of Functions

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. GONGYUAN SHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. MINGDAI WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. YONGJIU WU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. ZHIHANG HOU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. KUN WU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. DEHAI HE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. SHENG LIAO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. CHAO JIAN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. WEIQIANG GUO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. QIHUI LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JIE CHENG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. HAO CHEN/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

Name and Address of Company/Employer

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Brief Description of Functions

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. YINGYA LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JIAHAO HE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XIAOYU DIAO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. YUZHU PENG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. LINLIN LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JINQIANG LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. YANLING CHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JIAXING LIN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. HAIYANG LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. RUIGUI PAN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XU CHENG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. FENGJU GAO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

MR. YONGHENG ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 100 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XIAOHUI GUO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. KANG LIANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 101 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. MINMIN XUE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XIN LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 102 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. MEI LUO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. BIN ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 103 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. MEILU QIN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. ZHIYAO ZENG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 104 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JUNJIE PENG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JIANBO MI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 105 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. HUAN YU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. YANQIN WU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 106 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XIN WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. ZHENYU LIN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 107 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. YANYAN SHI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. YI ZHONG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 108 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. YOUNAN WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JINAN LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 109 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. LIANLE JIANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. JINTIAN YU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 110 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. ZHUOYAN MENG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. SONG LUO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 111 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. DONG JIAO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. CHAO LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 112 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. YALING JIANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. ZHUAN LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 113 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. YIYUAN QIN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. CHAOWEN LYU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 114 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XINCE JIANG/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. BIN HE/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 115 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. KUNLI XIAO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XINGHAI GAO/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 116 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. FAQI LI/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Name and Address of Company/Employer

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Brief Description of Functions

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 117 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. KUNXIONG CHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 118 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MS. XIAOLU ZHONG/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 119 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

Name and Address of Company/Employer

Friday, November 29, 2019 A27

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Brief Description of Functions

147

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. WENSHENG CHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

148

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. MINGQIANG WEI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MR. CHENGUI WU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

149

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. HAILONG QU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 120 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

MR. XIAOJIAO WU/ Chinese

Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative

150

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. ZHIWEI WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 121 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

151

MR. YANLING WU/ Chinese

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. ZONGPING SUN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 122 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

152

MR. WENFENG PENG/ Chinese

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. QIAO XIANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 123 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

153

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. JIAXIN ZUO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MR. BAOLIN XU/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 124 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

154

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XUDONG LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MS. BEI ZHANG/ Chinese

LANCE EXPERT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. 125 Brgy. San Francisco, Biñan City, Laguna

155

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. FANGYUN LUO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

MR. LEI YU/ Chinese

156

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. SIYUAN YE/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

157

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. FAN ZHOU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

158

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. BAOYAN HUANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

159

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. TING YANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

126

127

MINEBEA PHILIPPINES, INC. FPIP, Santo Tomas, Batangas MINEBEA PHILIPPINES, INC. FPIP, Santo Tomas, Batangas

PROCTER & GAMBLE PHILIPPINES, INC. 128 LISP I, Brgy. Diezmo, Cabuyao, Laguna

MR. INHO JIN / Korean

MR. JONG HAK PARK / Korean

Division Representative

MR. LIEW LI JUN, VALERIE / Singaporean

Group Manager, Product Supply

129

SUNG HYUNG PRECISION CO., INC. MR. YONGHYUN CHO / CEZ, Rosario, Cavite Korean

130

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. MINGJUAN LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

160

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. LE CHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

131

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. BIAO GENG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

161

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. HOUXIN HUANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

132

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. QIZHU WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

162

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. WEIPENG ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

133

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. SHILIN LUAN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

163

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YAO LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

134

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. HAICHANG MA/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

164

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. NGUYEN VAN TOAN/ / Vietnamese

135

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YI LIN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

165

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YANG WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

136

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. WEI HUANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

166

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. WUSI YANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

137

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. DEZHI LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

167

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. DEHE SHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

138

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. QINGHUA HUANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

168

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. QING YANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

139

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. AGUDAMU LI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

169

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. WIN PAPA/ Burmese

140

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XUEFEI ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

170

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YANG LI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

141

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. BINYUAN MO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

171

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. HONGWEI CHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

142

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. HAN WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

172

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YI ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

143

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. QUANWEI OU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

173

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XINGXING HU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

144

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. SONGQING YANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

174

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XIANGCHENG BI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

145

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YOUSUFU ZHAO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

175

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XINGFU LUO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

146

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. RENBANG LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

176

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. PENG YAO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Mold Design Manager

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Myanmari Customer Service Representative

BusinessMirror

A28 Friday, November 29, 2019

Name and Address of Company/Employer

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Brief Description of Functions

Name and Address of Company/Employer

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Name and Citizenship of Foreign National

Position and Brief Description of Functions

177

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. ZHENZHEN WAN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

207

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. CHAO HUANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

178

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. JING LI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

208

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. XUE WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

179

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. FAN PENG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

209

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. YING TAO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

180

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. JUAN HUANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

210

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XIZU GUO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

181

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. TING LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

211

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. MENGTAO WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

182

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. LE LUO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

212

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. GUANGDONG HUANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

183

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YUANHE WU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

213

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. CHAOYANG ZHAO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

184

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. NGUYEN NGOC BACH/ Vietnamese

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

214

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YABING WANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

185

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. BIN HE/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

215

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. SHANGJIE HE/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

186

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YUNZHONG LI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

216

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. JIONGAN WEI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

187

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. BINBIN SONG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

217

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. NGUYEN THI NGOC VAN/ Vietnamese

188

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. JUNMING MU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

218

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. QIAOSHA ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

189

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XINCHENG YANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

219

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. LIYONG XU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

190

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. WENJUAN ZHENG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

220

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. JINYING FU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

191

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. ZHE YI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

221

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. CHENGTAO LAI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

192

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YUBO TIAN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

222

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. CONG JIA/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

193

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. CHENGJUN SUO/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

223

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XUEYOU CHEN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

194

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. JIE XIE/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

224

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. ZHAOYUN ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

195

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XIAOLIANG WU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

225

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. WEI LIU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

196

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. XINGQI ZHOU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

226

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. HUI WEI/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

197

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. JIANLONG XIA/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

227

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. YA FANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

198

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. SUOLONG PAN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

228

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. CHENGHAO YANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

199

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. ZERONG MENG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

229

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. RENJIE ZHOU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

200

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. YAOJUN HOU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

230

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. DONGLIN MA/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

201

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. MEIMEI WU/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

231

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. LINXIAO ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

202

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. ZILONG WAN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Any person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired may file an objection at the DOLE Regional Office within 30 days from the date of publication. Please inform the DOLE Regional Office if you have an information of any criminal offense committed by the foreign nationals.

203

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. BOYAO ZHANG/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

204

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MR. WEIHUA XIN/ Chinese

Chinese Customer Service Representative

205

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. YULING XU/ Chinese

206

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Brgy. Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite

MS. EI KHINE MYO/ Burmese

Chinese Customer Service Representative Myanmari Customer Service Representative

HENRY JOHN S. JALBUENA Regional Director

To avail of free job referral, placement, and employment guidance services, visit the nearest Public Employment Service Offices (PESO) or log on at http://www.philjobnet.gov.ph AEP20191007277

Companies BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Friday, November 29, 2019

Store milestone marks Fruitas PSE debut By VG Cabuag

@villygc

RUITAS Holdings Inc., which will list at the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) on Friday, said the number of stores it has opened has crossed the 1,000 mark following its aggressive network expansion. As of November 26, Fruitas has 1,036 stores across the country, with new kiosks having recently opened

in Metro Manila and key provinces like Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Bulacan, Tarlac, Zambales, Cebu, Iloilo, Aklan,

Davao and Cagayan de Oro. Fruitas also relaunched “Coffee Talk,” a coffee and tea kiosk concept. With its relaunching, the group said it will create new brands and concepts to cater to the evolving demand of Filipino consumers. The company also recently started to sell some of its bottled fruit juices on open refrigerator shelves inside the supermarkets of Landmark. Fruitas ended 2018 with 930 stores nationwide. It ended June 2019 with 949 stores, but has since added 87 stores in less than five months. The company will debut on the

PSE under the ticker symbol “FRUIT.” Proceeds from the initial public offering will finance the company’s store network expansion and the improvement of existing stores. Raised funds will also pave the way for the introduction of new concepts and in the acquisition of future brands, commissary expansion and debt repayment. “We are happy with the results of the offering of Fruitas. The broker tranche was more than 2.5 times oversubscribed, while the local small-investor tranche was a record amount for a Philippine IPO,” said First Metro Investment Corp.

Executive Vice President Daniel D. Camacho. “The exceptional performance and positive response from the market prove that the public believes in Fruitas’ strong fundamentals and aggressive expansion plans in the country,” he added. The company started from a single kiosk stand in SM Manila back in 2002. Fruitas has slashed its offer price to P1.68 per share, cutting its proceeds to just P1 billion. The company earlier gave a ma ximum price of P1.99 per share for its offering of up to

533.66-million firm shares with an over-allotment option of up to 68.34 million. “The company agreed to price the issue at P1.68 per share in order to ensure a healthy performance of the stock upon listing,” Eduardo V. Francisco, president of BDO Capital and Investment Corp. said. The offer shares account for up to 28.2 percent of the company’s total issued shares. BDO Capital and First Metro Investment are acting as joint issue managers, lead underwriters and bookrunners. RCBC Capital is a participating underwriter.

AirAsia revenues in Q3 get boost from Boracay By Recto Mercene @rectomercene

& Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

ESPITE a 40-percent increase in revenues in the third quarter, Philippines AirAsia Inc. was still in the red, but its losses contracted after it cut back on a few items in its operating expenses. Data from AirAsia Bhd., its Malaysian parent company, indicated that the budget carrier

posted losses of P367 million in the third quarter. However, the figure is 78 percent lower than the P1.69 billion in losses it recorded a year ago. Its revenues rose by 40 percent to P6.22 billion, from last year’s P4.45 billion, as the number of passengers it ferried rose by 33 percent to 2.11 million, from 1.58 million. Its fares, however, rose by only 2 percent. Philippines AirAsia’s operating expenses stood at roughly P5.30 billion, a little lower than last

year’s P5.78 billion. “AirAsia Philippines delivered strong operational performance by narrowing losses in a seasonally weak quarter,” AirAsia Group Bhd. President Bo Lingam was quoted in a statement as saying. “AirAsia Philippines clearly benefited from the aggressive capacity expansion and aided by the re-opening of Boracay Island,” Lingam added. The budget carrier is gunning to sustain its profitability, after bleeding for about seven years straight. It is expected to post

Isuzu PUVs turned over to group By Elijah Felice E. Rosales @alyasjah

RUCK manufacturer Isuzu Philippines Cor p. (IPC) has delivered 25 units of modern public-utility vehicle to a shuttle services group as part of the firm’s compliance with the government’s PUV modernization program. In a statement on Thursday, IPC said it turned over the third batch of brand-new Isuzu PUVs to MetroExpress Connect Inc. (MCI). This batch is made up of 25 units of modern PUVs that will service the routes of Las Piñas to Daang Hari; Kawit, Cavite to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange; Tanza, Cavite to PITx; and General Trias, Cavite to Daang Hari. IPC’s modernized units were assembled using the Isuzu QKR77 platform, while its body was designed and manufactured by Almazora Motors Corp. The units are equipped with Euro 41 compliant diesel engine that delivers better fuel economy, as well as cleaner emissions than traditional jeepneys. As such, IPC said these units provide its clients, like MCI, “quality and reliable transportation, connecting passengers and communities to their destinations the easy way.” IPC President Hajime Koso encouraged transport firms to make the jump to modern PUVs, as he said the vehicles provide safer, cleaner, more convenient and reliable services. “I have always believed that the Isuzu PUVs are truly a vehicle made by the Filipinos, for the Filipinos. We are confident that these units will be able to provide a more durable, comfortable and safe transport solution for the riding public,” said Koso. MCI is a shuttle services group that started operations with a fleet of roughly 20 units servicing private subdivisions, providing transportation to communities, connecting them to commercial developments and city centers.

As the years progress, MCI began acquiring large-scale projects and expanding its operations, and that’s when it selected Isuzu PUVs as its transportation partner. The firm is committed to provide its customers a “safe, seamless and

reliable transportation.” IPC, for its part, is a member of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc., and is the country’s seventhleading vehicle assembler in terms of sales.

a P2-billion profit by the end of 2019 with revenues projected to reach P29 billion, as it aims to serve some 10 million passengers throughout the year. The consolidated group’s earnings in the third quarter reached RM3.1 billion, up 18 percent from RM2.6 billion in the same period last year despite a reduction in lease income. AirAsia said the double-digit growth in revenue was driven by a 20-percent year-on-year increase in passengers carried to 13 million.

Ancillary revenue also grew by 26 percent year-on-year to RM686 million, with traditional airline ancillary revenue up 16 percent, while non-airline ancillary revenue up 72 percent. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization for the consolidated group was up 119 percent to RM691 million. Non-airline Ebitda was down 33 percent to RM29 million, as BigPay and AirAsia.com saw larger Ebitda losses as BigPay expands user base and AirAsia.com ramps

up operations. Nonetheless, Teleport reported Ebitda of RM62 million in the third quarter, up 15 percent. All Asean airline entities of the company reported a positive Ebitda. Net operating profit was RM2 million, down from RM69 million. The weaker year-on-year performance was due to the accounting impact from the restructured aircraft ownership, from owning to leasing aircraft, even though similar cash outflow in either financing method.

Companies BusinessMirror

Friday, November 29, 2019

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

November 28, 2019

Net Foreign Stocks Bid Ask Open High Low Close Volume Value Trade (Peso) Buy (Sell) FINANCIALS

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BDO LEASING COL FINANCIAL MEDCO HLDG NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH SUN LIFE

53.7 154 87.55 25.1 12.84 67.9 12.7 38.2 57.6 24.85 199.9 59 1.88 18.54 0.385 0.83 173.2 1805

53.9 154.3 88 25.2 12.88 68.2 13 38.25 57.75 25 204 59.2 1.99 18.56 0.4 0.84 175.8 1881

54.65 154.2 89 25.15 12.82 68.4 12.7 39.15 58.7 24.85 201.6 59 1.88 18 0.4 0.85 175.8 1807

54.65 157 89 25.3 12.96 68.4 12.7 39.7 58.7 24.95 204 59.4 1.88 18.54 0.4 0.85 175.8 1807

53.8 154 87.1 25 12.82 67.75 12.7 38.1 57.8 24.85 199 59 1.88 18 0.4 0.85 173.1 1800

53.8 154 88 25.2 12.88 68.2 12.7 38.2 57.8 24.85 204 59 1.88 18.54 0.4 0.85 173.1 1800

5800 1443620 4336060 36600 43100 1664890 3500 3172600 570 18900 453430 15710 8000 2400 270000 11000 290 115

312074 223138135 380203984.5 919960 556156 113204976.5 44450 123832665 33042 470685 91880024 926902 15040 44338 108000 9350 50238 207360

INDUSTRIAL AC ENERGY ABOITIZ POWER BASIC ENERGY FIRST GEN FIRST PHIL HLDG MERALCO MANILA WATER PETRON PETROENERGY PHX PETROLEUM PILIPINAS SHELL SPC POWER AGRINURTURE AXELUM CNTRL AZUCARERA CENTURY FOOD DEL MONTE DNL INDUS EMPERADOR SMC FOODANDBEV ALLIANCE SELECT GINEBRA JOLLIBEE LIBERTY FLOUR MACAY HLDG MAXS GROUP PEPSI COLA SHAKEYS PIZZA ROXAS AND CO RFM CORP SWIFT FOODS UNIV ROBINA VITARICH CONCRETE A CONCRETE B CEMEX HLDG EAGLE CEMENT EEI CORP HOLCIM MEGAWIDE PHINMA TKC METALS VULCAN INDL CROWN ASIA EUROMED LMG CHEMICALS MABUHAY VINYL PRYCE CORP GREENERGY INTEGRATED MICR IONICS PANASONIC SFA SEMICON CIRTEK HLDG

HOLDING & FRIMS ABACORE CAPITAL ASIABEST GROUP AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL AYALA LAND LOG ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG ATN HLDG A ATN HLDG B COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV FJ PRINCE A FORUM PACIFIC GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT KEPPEL HLDG A LODESTAR LOPEZ HLDG LT GROUP MABUHAY HLDG METRO PAC INV PACIFICA PRIME MEDIA SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP TOP FRONTIER WELLEX INDUS ZEUS HLDG

309350 -66633974 -72822799 -147374 45765101 -11370120 -4056.5 -3048182 -853742 -0 -19080 -

2.51 34.45 0.227 23.5 75.05 314.8 18.42 4.46 4.03 10.88 32.75 8.89 13.36 3.57 18 15.1 5.1 8.7 7.2 88.1 0.59 40.5 194.8 46 7.96 12.32 1.37 10.82 1.99 5.46 0.121 150.5 1.14 64.65 67.9 2.31 15.02 10.4 13.7 16.92 9.14 1.02 0.98 2.02 1.6 4.85 3.26 4.97 1.95 7.84 1.34 5.26 0.95 5.24

2.55 34.65 0.237 23.95 75.75 315 18.5 4.5 4.1 11 33.15 8.9 13.9 3.58 18.68 15.22 5.3 8.77 7.21 89.9 0.6 41 195 46.05 7.98 12.58 1.38 10.9 2.02 5.47 0.122 151.7 1.15 69 70 2.36 15.18 10.42 13.9 17.1 9.5 1.06 0.99 2.09 1.78 4.96 3.48 5.17 1.99 8 1.39 5.67 1 5.28

2.57 34.65 0.239 23.9 75 322.6 18.42 4.68 4.07 11.06 32.75 8.89 13.9 3.68 17.78 15.38 5.05 8.7 7.23 89.8 0.62 41 198 46.05 8.02 12.1 1.39 11 2.05 5.47 0.126 154 1.16 66 67.9 2.31 15.1 10.4 13.98 17.2 9.6 1.04 1.01 2.02 1.6 4.46 3.41 4.98 2.01 8 1.39 5.67 0.95 5.43

2.59 34.9 0.239 23.95 75.75 322.6 18.84 4.69 4.1 11.06 33.2 9.3 13.96 3.68 18.68 15.38 5.45 8.78 7.23 89.9 0.63 41 198.6 46.05 8.7 12.7 1.42 11.1 2.05 5.47 0.126 154 1.16 70 67.9 2.38 15.1 10.42 13.98 17.2 9.6 1.06 1.01 2.02 1.6 4.9 3.56 5 2.04 8.1 1.39 5.67 0.95 5.43

2.51 34.05 0.226 23.5 75 315 18.42 4.46 4.03 10.88 32.5 8.85 13.3 3.58 17.76 15.1 5.05 8.65 7.21 88.1 0.6 40.5 194.5 46.05 7.96 12.1 1.34 10.8 1.95 5.46 0.121 150 1.13 65 67.85 2.31 15.1 10.4 13.7 16.9 9.6 1.02 0.98 2.02 1.6 4.46 3.4 4.95 1.95 7.8 1.34 5.26 0.95 5.23

2.51 34.45 0.237 23.95 75.75 315 18.5 4.46 4.1 11.06 32.75 8.9 13.94 3.58 18.68 15.22 5.3 8.7 7.21 89.9 0.6 41 195 46.05 7.98 12.6 1.38 10.82 2.02 5.46 0.121 151 1.15 70 67.9 2.32 15.1 10.4 13.9 17.1 9.6 1.06 0.99 2.02 1.6 4.85 3.56 4.97 1.99 8 1.39 5.67 0.95 5.24

1418000 1820600 1220000 1466300 375030 185420 299300 2274000 11000 3200 122500 1174900 139700 1109000 1100 39500 1600 465800 8000600 105460 143000 4700 674160 600 65900 62700 2960000 212300 1546000 3700 740000 1123340 1947000 4220 280 175000 300 71200 63500 271700 700 77000 706000 61000 1000 47000 11000 757000 6927000 39800 17000 300 132000 245400

3569350 62782655 276940 34510680 28144618 58713226 5531734 10307380 44550 35204 4026505 10635369 1925724 3991600 19646 601568 8369 4053847 57689797 9428831 86580 191100 131780152 27630 527348 781082 4112070 2319308 3103320 20218 91100 169116554 2229090 274963.5 19008.5 407830 4530 740510 880342 4,630,840( 6720 79240 700380 123220 1600 216250 37570 3782710 13891600 319473 22930 1660 125400 1293290

-615699.9998 -18544990 1172420 -27245780.5 -21546482 -685952 -3977680 998970 1028012 155084 -350800 393856 -3029141 -50413255 747758 -134300 -18832734 95800 -0 1903250.0003 -761762 36179.9998 -49142825 -90480 16350 -5200 -477848 4,244,627.9999) -1500000 5185420.0002 8836 -31483

0.79 12.3 804 48.7 11.1 3.39 6.89 0.71 0.92 0.95 6.98 6.83 13.2 3.84 0.21 889.5 5.4 76.3 5.2 0.485 4.06 11.5 0.56 4.26 0.039 1.25 1070 159.8 215 0.223 0.212

0.8 12.5 804.5 48.95 11.2 3.4 6.9 0.72 0.94 0.96 7 6.85 13.38 3.99 0.224 893.5 5.99 76.9 5.81 0.5 4.15 11.76 0.58 4.28 0.04 1.34 1077 160 219 0.224 0.226

0.79 12.54 803 49 11.08 3.49 6.89 0.71 0.93 0.97 7.07 6.88 13.28 3.99 0.21 875 5.4 77.65 5.21 0.51 4.03 12.04 0.56 4.3 0.043 1.28 1089 160 216 0.22 0.213

0.8 12.54 806.5 49.4 11.18 3.49 6.9 0.72 0.94 0.97 7.07 6.92 13.38 4 0.21 895.5 5.4 78.45 5.21 0.51 4.08 12.06 0.58 4.36 0.044 1.28 1095 160 219 0.223 0.216

0.78 12.3 802.5 48.05 11.04 3.39 6.88 0.7 0.93 0.95 6.98 6.71 13.18 3.99 0.21 875 5.4 76.3 5.21 0.48 4.03 11.5 0.55 4.26 0.039 1.25 1060 158 215 0.22 0.212

0.8 12.3 804.5 48.95 11.1 3.39 6.9 0.72 0.94 0.97 7 6.85 13.38 3.99 0.21 893.5 5.4 76.3 5.21 0.485 4.06 11.5 0.56 4.26 0.039 1.25 1070 160 219 0.223 0.212

1926000 3200 294120 1965600 39623300 566000 17000 234000 1446000 960000 766600 39619600 261600 20000 50000 35410 7200000 1274200 1100 226000 107000 3999000 220000 22571000 233900000 464000 324795 37840 180 90000 360000

1517540 39484 236743715 95882315 440387928 1929950 117139 166940 1357110 912240 5363494 271299907 3457408 79900 10500 31556725 38880000 97980189.5 5731 109255 433990 46,112,266( 122320 97073780 9563900 583230 349684960 6049328 38860 19920 76900

1600 -33363125 -62180465 -18335314 25940 -68900 -86490 -1467100 -87671697 -1722668 -1587135 -19548078.5 -315850 9,448,555.9996) 28560 -22196310 182900 12500 -84599560 -607086 -

PROPERTY

ARTHALAND CORP 0.85 0.86 0.86 0.88 0.83 0.87 1305000 1117450 ANCHOR LAND 8.85 9.2 8.85 8.85 8.85 8.85 1000 8850 AYALA LAND 44.7 44.75 44.05 44.7 44.05 44.7 9193300 408014860 28234090 ARANETA PROP 1.52 1.57 1.59 1.59 1.59 1.59 2000 3180 BELLE CORP 1.98 2 2 2 1.98 1.98 635000 1261630 198000 A BROWN 0.72 0.74 0.72 0.74 0.72 0.74 140000 102850 CITYLAND DEVT 0.84 0.87 0.87 0.87 0.87 0.87 310000 269700 169650 CROWN EQUITIES 0.189 0.19 0.19 0.19 0.188 0.19 2670000 503660 CEBU HLDG 6.4 6.47 6.47 6.47 6.45 6.47 45100 291435 -174043 CEB LANDMASTERS 4.68 4.73 4.73 4.73 4.7 4.7 170000 799620 CENTURY PROP 0.58 0.59 0.59 0.6 0.58 0.59 8974000 5280580 CYBER BAY 0.415 0.425 0.425 0.425 0.415 0.415 140000 58900 DOUBLEDRAGON 19.16 19.6 19.7 19.7 19.02 19.16 70000 1367468 -591852 DM WENCESLAO 10.2 10.24 10.18 10.36 10.18 10.24 43200 446472 EMPIRE EAST 0.44 0.445 0.45 0.45 0.445 0.445 1120000 498500 FILINVEST LAND 1.55 1.56 1.56 1.57 1.55 1.56 3977000 6198370 323700 GLOBAL ESTATE 1.21 1.24 1.2 1.24 1.2 1.24 174000 209400 8990 HLDG 14.84 14.9 14.84 14.86 14.84 14.84 405400 6016176 -13356 PHIL INFRADEV 1.28 1.3 1.3 1.32 1.28 1.3 1218000 1572220 258000 CITY AND LAND 0.61 0.76 0.76 0.76 0.76 0.76 28000 21280 21280 MEGAWORLD 4.51 4.55 4.61 4.61 4.48 4.55 12819000 58331290 -35258710 MRC ALLIED 0.228 0.229 0.235 0.235 0.229 0.229 19330000 4484930 PHIL ESTATES 0.395 0.415 0.395 0.395 0.395 0.395 20000 7900 PRIMEX CORP 2.01 2.02 2.02 2.02 2 2.02 434000 870810 ROBINSONS LAND 26.15 26.2 26.85 26.85 25.75 26.2 445200 11613880 -3019650 PHIL REALTY 0.34 0.35 0.345 0.345 0.34 0.34 350000 119250 SHANG PROP 3.18 3.25 3.24 3.25 3.24 3.25 30000 97450 STA LUCIA LAND 2.42 2.45 2.45 2.45 2.42 2.42 215000 520330 -2450 SM PRIME HLDG 39.1 39.15 39.4 40 39.1 39.15 4864400 191759610 -37002470 VISTAMALLS 5.21 5.48 5.5 5.5 5.49 5.49 1500 8240 SUNTRUST HOME 1.37 1.39 1.44 1.45 1.37 1.37 8398000 11582940 PTFC REDEV CORP 45 46 45.15 46 45.05 46 12030 547277 VISTA LAND 7.57 7.6 7.6 7.61 7.56 7.6 2180500 16546996 -8701299 SERVICES ABS CBN 17.2 17.4 17.44 17.48 17.2 17.2 21000 363282 GMA NETWORK 5.2 5.21 5.25 5.25 5.2 5.2 122200 637400 MANILA BULLETIN 0.405 0.42 0.41 0.42 0.405 0.42 150000 61700 GLOBE TELECOM 1900 1930 1897 1930 1897 1930 23630 45257535 -7276920 PLDT 1082 1087 1100 1100 1075 1087 99675 108115235 417085 DFNN INC 5.35 5.59 5.7 5.7 5.64 5.64 1500 8466 ISLAND INFO 0.103 0.106 0.103 0.106 0.103 0.103 820000 84880 ISM COMM 4.25 4.26 4.23 4.31 4.2 4.26 3261000 13915780 86000 JACKSTONES 2.05 2.28 2.28 2.29 2.28 2.29 10000 22860 NOW CORP 2.93 2.94 3.04 3.1 2.93 2.94 1685000 5085050 -144280 TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.29 0.295 0.295 0.3 0.295 0.295 5290000 1562200 73750 PHILWEB 2.75 2.79 2.79 2.79 2.75 2.79 94000 259100 -27500 2GO GROUP 9.84 10.08 10.1 10.1 9.8 9.84 7300 71972 ASIAN TERMINALS 18 18.58 18 18 18 18 110000 1980000 1800000 CHELSEA 5.92 5.93 5.85 5.97 5.85 5.93 422600 2504552 -121289 CEBU AIR 91.45 92.6 91.9 92.6 91.1 92.6 196810 17976602 -4655038.5 INTL CONTAINER 122.8 123.2 121.5 123.5 121 123.2 1208070 148570069 21875437 LBC EXPRESS 13.98 14 13.98 13.98 13.98 13.98 2000 27960 LORENZO SHIPPNG 0.9 0.91 0.9 0.9 0.9 0.9 18000 16200 MACROASIA 18.1 18.24 18.3 18.4 18 18.24 166900 3050302 -1012382 METROALLIANCE A 1 1.05 0.99 1.05 0.99 1.05 18000 18450 PAL HLDG 7.8 7.9 7.8 8 7.77 7.79 5100 39769 HARBOR STAR 1.17 1.19 1.26 1.3 1.17 1.17 2857000 3449070 47400 ACESITE HOTEL 1.52 1.58 1.52 1.59 1.52 1.52 31000 47330 WATERFRONT 0.62 0.63 0.62 0.63 0.62 0.63 179000 110990 CENTRO ESCOLAR 6.9 7.08 7.09 7.09 7.08 7.08 4000 28321 FAR EASTERN U 892 910 910 910 910 910 70 63700 STI HLDG 0.66 0.68 0.67 0.68 0.66 0.67 963000 646820 13200 BERJAYA 2.92 2.93 2.85 2.94 2.85 2.92 1333000 3876780 -87000 BLOOMBERRY 11.4 11.46 11.18 11.46 11.18 11.46 1672100 19132172 10890490 PACIFIC ONLINE 2.52 2.54 2.6 2.6 2.53 2.53 32000 81540 -30660 LEISURE AND RES 2.81 2.82 2.84 2.84 2.8 2.82 416000 1168040 PREMIUM LEISURE 0.62 0.63 0.64 0.64 0.62 0.63 431000 270730 -145950 ALLHOME 11.5 11.52 11.5 11.52 11.44 11.52 1487400 17117754 -1281870 METRO RETAIL 2.24 2.29 2.29 2.29 2.23 2.24 452000 1016850 -455690 PUREGOLD 39.9 39.95 40 40 39.65 39.95 100200 4002330 -2109790 ROBINSONS RTL 74.7 76 76 76 74.7 76 279670 21254052 -446641 SSI GROUP 2.61 2.65 2.68 2.68 2.61 2.65 696000 1843380 132520 WILCON DEPOT 17.96 18.1 18.34 18.34 17.96 18.1 475800 8616890 -2290662 APC GROUP 0.47 0.48 0.475 0.475 0.47 0.47 540000 255900 9500 EASYCALL 8.82 9.13 9.13 9.13 8.81 9.13 6500 57655 GOLDEN BRIA 421 425 422 425 422 425 60 25350 IPM HLDG 4 4.5 4 4 4 4 59000 236000 236000 PAXYS 2.78 2.9 2.78 2.78 2.78 2.78 5000 13900 -13899.9999 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.495 0.5 0.52 0.52 0.495 0.5 16379000 8264815 -515810 SBS PHIL CORP 9.04 9.05 9.05 9.05 9.05 9.05 2300 20815 MINING & OIL ATOK 10.12 11.36 11.46 11.46 11.46 11.46 100 1146 APEX MINING 1.06 1.07 1.06 1.07 1.06 1.06 631000 669760 -183880 ABRA MINING 0.0015 0.0017 0.0016 0.0016 0.0016 0.0016 16000000 25600 ATLAS MINING 2.54 2.55 2.56 2.56 2.55 2.55 218000 556030 CENTURY PEAK 2.52 2.53 2.53 2.53 2.53 2.53 100000 253000 DIZON MINES 7.26 7.55 7.59 7.59 7.28 7.55 3900 28858 FERRONICKEL 1.72 1.74 1.83 1.83 1.72 1.72 11672000 20543510 -10537810 GEOGRACE 0.201 0.21 0.213 0.213 0.199 0.21 4710000 948430 62850 LEPANTO A 0.098 0.099 0.101 0.103 0.099 0.099 1960000 195880 LEPANTO B 0.097 0.104 0.106 0.106 0.099 0.099 5370000 544180 MANILA MINING B 0.0087 0.0097 0.0087 0.0097 0.0087 0.0097 10000000 92000 MARCVENTURES 1 1.01 1.01 1.02 1.01 1.01 188000 190060 NIHAO 1.02 1.05 1.04 1.06 1.04 1.05 22000 22920 NICKEL ASIA 3.26 3.27 3.5 3.51 3.25 3.27 8277000 27397440 -7837180 OMICO CORP 0.51 0.53 0.51 0.53 0.51 0.51 56000 28760 ORNTL PENINSULA 0.8 0.81 0.81 0.81 0.81 0.81 46000 37260 PX MINING 3.28 3.39 3.4 3.4 3.27 3.28 853000 2895710 -124710 SEMIRARA MINING 21.85 21.95 21.9 22 21.8 21.85 3639900 79724110 -9749660 AC ENEXOR 9.72 9.75 9.46 9.82 9.44 9.75 1129400 10940088 -20812 ORNTL PETROL A 0.011 0.012 0.012 0.012 0.012 0.012 15000000 180000 PHILODRILL 0.01 0.011 0.011 0.011 0.011 0.011 40000000 440000 PXP ENERGY 10.68 10.72 10.62 10.98 10.62 10.68 316800 3411682 -605332 PREFFERED AC PREF B1 509 510 509 509 509 509 80 40720 ALCO PREF C 100.6 104 101 101 101 101 1480 149480 DD PREF 100.1 101 100.1 100.1 100.1 100.1 27000 2702700 SMC FB PREF 2 973 999 998 998 998 998 10 9980 FGEN PREF G 109.5 112 112 112 112 112 120 13440 GLO PREF P 497 506 500 503 500 503 11960 6004390 GTCAP PREF A 971 1000 999 1000 999 1000 14170 14163000 GTCAP PREF B 995 1000 1000 1000 982 995 20010 19934820 MWIDE PREF 100.5 101 101 101 101 101 10 1010 PNX PREF 4 1024 1029 1025 1025 1024 1024 805 824370 PCOR PREF 2B 1026 1049 1026 1026 1026 1026 1765 1810890 PCOR PREF 3A 1027 1050 1049 1049 1048 1049 12065 12654185 PCOR PREF 3B 1066 1070 1066 1066 1066 1066 2000 2132000 SMC PREF 2C 78.2 78.4 78.4 78.4 78.2 78.2 266010 20802016 SMC PREF 2D 75.05 75.5 75.1 75.1 75.05 75.05 13400 1006170 SMC PREF 2E 75.95 76 75 75.95 75 75.95 370720 28155234 SMC PREF 2F 76.6 77.4 76.6 76.6 76.6 76.6 1047350 80227010 SMC PREF 2G 75.2 75.8 75.6 75.6 75.6 75.6 1300 98280 SMC PREF 2I 75.2 75.5 75.4 75.4 75.2 75.2 300 22580 -

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS GMA HLDG PDR

5.04

5.05

5.08

5.05

350000

1771002

WARRANTS LR WARRANT

1.33

SMALL & MEDIUM ENTERPRISES ITALPINAS 4.42 KEPWEALTH 11.68 XURPAS 0.88

1.45

1.4

1.33

51000

69400

4.48 11.7 0.89

4.6 12.04 0.9

4.64 12.2 0.9

4.36 11.64 0.88

4.47 11.7 0.89

221000 805400 1210000

999680 9513418 1074310

-64020 -57640 -

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS FIRST METRO ETF

116.5

-808566

116.7

117.4

116.5

8830

1032460

458952

www.businessmirror.com.ph

‘Grab penalized for failure to fulfill fare pledge to PCC’

By Lorenz S. Marasigan

@lorenzmarasigan

HE Land Transportation and Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Thursday said the fine that the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) imposed on Grab is “outside the fare structure guidelines.” Ronaldo Corpuz, who sits as board member at the regulatory body, clarified that the fares that LTFRB approved is different from the PCC’s sanctioned fare levels after Uber exited the Philippines last year. “To put it in proper context, the fine issued by PCC in its decision recently rendered pertains to the failure of Grab to fulfill its commitment to PCC as embodied in Grab’s undertaking which it voluntarily submitted to PCC. It has nothing to do with the LTFRB’s fare structure,” said Corpuz.

He did not, however, categorically said that Grab fares were within the fare matrix that was approved for it. To recall, the PCC ordered Grab to disburse roughly P5.05 million to its customers who booked Grab rides from February to May, after it found that the fares were higher than the levels that it approved. Under the LTFRB’s fare matrix, Grab is allowed to collect the following for each GrabCar ride: P40 as base fare, P15 for each kilometer traveled, P2 per minute, and a surge

rate of up to 2x. It is also allowed to charge P80 as minimum fare for shorter distances. Corpuz said the agency’s primary concern remains to be the welfare of the riding public, as such it will “conduct a review to monitor Grab’s fare setting in order to determine any violation on the existing fare structure issued by the board.” Grab earlier maintained that it has always been compliant of the fare structures stipulated under its approved matrix. Sought for comment, a Grab spokesman said: “We respect and welcome the LTFRB’s intent to conduct a review to monitor our fare setting. Grab continues to work with our regulators, and we maintain our position that our fares remain to be compliant with the LTFRB’s fare matrix.” Grab Philippines insisted on Tuesday that it never overcharged its users, contrary to a statement made by a lawmaker, who called on transport regulators to slap a P15-billion fine on the company.

Brian P. Cu, the company’s president, clarified that Grab “has no liability to pay any fine,” as it only collects fares within the matrix set by the LTFRB. On Monday, Party-list Rep. Jericho B. Nograles of Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta called out the transport regulator for not penalizing Grab for supposedly “overcharging” users in the Philippines. He said Grab should be slapped with P15 billion in total fines, after its “direct admission of 3 million offenses.” “These statements are incorrect, misleading, irresponsible and will only hurt the morale of drivers who only want to make a decent living by serving the riding public,” said Cu. The lawmaker based this statement on Grab’s apparent lack of legal initiatives to counter the P5million fine that the PCC ordered from Grab, after it found “standard deviations”—either up or down— in fare collections from February to May 2019.

Vivant units to buy shares from JV firm

IVANT Corp.’s two subsidiaries are buying more shares in ET-Vivant Solar Corp., the listed firm told the exchange on Thursday. The company said Vivant Energy Corp. (Vivant Energy) executed a deed of sale with assignment of subscription rights with ET Energy Pilipinas Holding Corp. for the latter to sell the 8,858,484 paidup preferred shares, and to assign its rights over the 9,141,516 subscribed but unpaid preferred shares of ETEPHC in ET-Vivant Solar Corp. In addition, Vivant Renewable Energy Corp. executed a deed of sale with assignment of subscription Rights with ETEPHC to sell to VREC the 984,276 paid-up common shares, and to assign its rights over the 1,015,724 subscribed but unpaid common shares of ETEPHC in ETVivant Solar. “We have not acquired ETEPHC. We purchased ETEPHC’s shares in a previous joint venture, ET-Vivant,” said Vivant Assistant Vice President for Corporate Communications

Shem Jose Garcia. The transaction will result in Vivant Energy and VREC collectively owning 99.99 percent of ET-Vivant Solar. The remaining shares are shares held by members of the Board of Directors. “The main reason for this is that we are currently working on a new brand that consolidates all our business-to-business customer-facing energy solutions. The brand is launching next year. So, it’s not too early to give all the details, but the purchase of remaining shares of ET-Vivant was to have complete control over our rooftop solar offering, which will be just one of the services offered,” said Garcia. ET-Vivant Chief Operating Officer Mark Habana added that the acquisition would help improve Vivant Energy’s renewable-energy portfolio. “ETEPHC was our partner in a joint venture to develop rooftop solar projects. We acquired shares of the joint-venture company,” he explained. Lenie Lectura

Investors cool to biggest China IPO since 2015

HAT’S poised to be China’s biggest listing since 2015 faces a headwind: investors are losing interest in mainland stocks. State-owned lender Postal Savings Bank of China Co. is looking to raise around 28.4 billion yuan ($4 billion) in what would be the largest onshore share sale since 2015. It follows a flurry of initial public offerings (IPO) that have faded quickly, amid slumping trading activity and a steady decline in new stock accounts that signals a lack of exuberance in China’s market. It contrasts with the start of the year when turnover surged beyond 1 trillion yuan for the first time in years and multiple gauges roared into bull markets. Such confidence has since been eroded by the twists and turns of US-China trade negotiations, a slowing economy and weakness in corporate earnings. Lackluster debuts on Shanghai’s new STAR Market haven’t helped, with the board losing its shine amid a flood of issuance. Of the 37 stocks listed in the A-share market since October 29, seven have dropped

below their IPO price, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. “Investors are leaving the stock market, because the market is lacking in money-making opportunities,” said Jiang Liangqing, a money manager at Ruisen Capital Management in Beijing. “It has become more common for new listings to flop.” Turnover on mainland exchanges was down 74 percent from March’s high as of Thursday. The Shanghai Composite hasn’t moved by more than 2 percent since August, while 30-day volatility is at its lowest since early 2018. The number of new stock trading accounts dropped 18 percent in October from September, the third monthly decline in a row. One of China’s largest state-owned lenders, Postal Bank, would potentially be the world’s fourth-largest listing this year behind Alibaba Group Holding Ltd.’s $11-billion share sale this month, Uber Technologies Inc.’s $8.1-billion IPO in May and that of Budweiser Brewing Co. in September. The date for subscription for Postal Bank’s Shanghai listing is Thursday, according to a filing to the stock exchange. Bloomberg News

MUTUAL FUNDS

November 28, 2019

NAV ONE YEAR THREE YEAR FIVE YEAR Y-T-D PER SHARE RETURN* RETURN STOCK FUNDS ALFM GROWTH FUND, INC. -A 252.99 1.45% 1.5% -0.84% 0.31% ATRAM ALPHA OPPORTUNITY FUND, INC. -A 1.4785 7.29% 2.97% -0.29% 2.62% ATRAM PHILIPPINE EQUITY OPPORTUNITY FUND, INC. -A 3.7911 -1.95% -0.73% -2.82% -2.87% CLIMBS SHARE CAPITAL EQUITY INVESTMENT FUND CORP. -A 0.8989 0.42% N.A. N.A. -0.23% FIRST METRO CONSUMER FUND ON MSCI PHILS. IMI, INC. -A 0.8535 4.12% N.A. N.A. 4% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN EQUITY FUND,INC. -A 5.3416 2.8% 2.75% -0.59% 1.3% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN PHILIPPINE INDEX FUND, INC. -A,6 0.8573 3.05% -1.2% N.A. 2.46% MBG EQUITY INVESTMENT FUND, INC. -A 109.25 -2.48% N.A. N.A. -5.95% PAMI EQUITY INDEX FUND, INC. -A 51.4722 5.19% 4.06% N.A. 4.57% PHILAM STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND, INC. -A 535.49 4.7% 2.77% -0.36% 4.03% PHILEQUITY DIVIDEND YIELD FUND, INC. -A 1.2972 4.03% 3.29% 0.68% 3.44% PHILEQUITY FUND, INC. -A 38.0941 4.63% 4.17% 0.51% 3.99% PHILEQUITY MSCI PHILIPPINE INDEX FUND, INC. -A,1 1.0196 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. PHILEQUITY PSE INDEX FUND INC. -A 5.2369 6.32% 4.69% 1.58% 5.61% PHILIPPINE STOCK INDEX FUND CORP. -A 874.22 6.28% 4.59% 1.5% 5.53% SOLDIVO STRATEGIC GROWTH FUND, INC. -A 0.8774 2.73% 2.34% N.A. 2.02% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY PHILIPPINE EQUITY FUND, INC. -A 4.2342 4.37% 3.91% 0.57% 4.32% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY PHILIPPINE STOCK INDEX FUND, INC. -A 1.0039 5.91% 4.4% N.A. 5.2% UNITED FUND, INC. -A 3.6676 5.64% 5.94% 2.37% 4.76% EXCHANGE TRADED FUND FIRST METRO PHIL. EQUITY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND, INC. -A,C 117.2083 6.63% 5.33% 2.49% 5.83% ATRAM ASIAPLUS EQUITY FUND, INC. -B $0.9921 4.04% 5.09% -0.31% 6.78% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY WORLD VOYAGER FUND, INC. -A $1.3463 14.34% 9.46% N.A. 21.82% BALANCED FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES ATRAM DYNAMIC ALLOCATION FUND, INC. -A 1.5772 -4.32% -1.99% -3.97% -4.48% ATRAM PHILIPPINE BALANCED FUND, INC. -A 2.2269 1.72% 0.11% -1.05% 0.8% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN BALANCED FUND INC. -A 2.6282 4.68% 2.73% -1.22% 3.35% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN F.O.C.C.U.S. DYNAMIC FUND, INC. -A,5 0.2321 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. GREPALIFE BALANCED FUND CORPORATION -A 1.3308 2.24% N.A. N.A. 2.03% NCM MUTUAL FUND OF THE PHILS., INC. -A 1.9596 6.84% 3.37% 0.96% 6.32% PAMI HORIZON FUND, INC. -A 3.7837 7.78% 2.72% 0.13% 7.21% PHILAM FUND, INC. -A 16.9342 7.05% 2.51% 0.05% 6.45% SOLIDARITAS FUND, INC. -A 2.1351 3.79% 2.13% 0.9% 3.18% SUN LIFE OF CANADA PROSPERITY BALANCED FUND, INC. -A 3.8608 5.84% 3.62% 0.43% 5.74% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY ACHIEVER FUND 2028, INC. -A,D,2 1.0133 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. SUN LIFE PROSPERITY ACHIEVER FUND 2038, INC. -A,D,2 0.9952 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. SUN LIFE PROSPERITY ACHIEVER FUND 2048, INC. -A,D,2 0.9927 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DYNAMIC FUND, INC. -A 0.9776 5.46% 2.95% -0.51% 6.06% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES COCOLIFE DOLLAR FUND BUILDER, INC. -A $0.03819 9.65% 2.96% 1.98% 8.19% PAMI ASIA BALANCED FUND, INC. -A $1.0038 6.69% 4.39% 0.18% 9.86% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR ADVANTAGE FUND, INC. -A $3.8449 11.61% 7.4% 3.36% 16.21% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR WELLSPRING FUND, INC. -A,7 $1.1168 9.09% 4.5% N.A. 11.12% BOND FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES ALFM PESO BOND FUND, INC. -A 356.38 4.03% 2.79% 2.24% 3.76% ATRAM CORPORATE BOND FUND, INC. -A 1.9268 4.48% 0.84% -0.34% 3.64% COCOLIFE FIXED INCOME FUND, INC. -A 3.1071 5.04% 5.23% 5.22% 4.4% EKKLESIA MUTUAL FUND INC. -A 2.2099 3.9% 2.46% 1.75% 3.79% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN FIXED INCOME FUND,INC. -A 2.3439 6.29% 2.11% 1.36% 6.29% GREPALIFE FIXED INCOME FUND CORP. -A P 1.6081 2.79% 1.64% -0.3% 2.79% PHILAM BOND FUND, INC. -A 4.3305 11.24% 2.8% 1.37% 10.48% PHILEQUITY PESO BOND FUND, INC. -A 3.7562 7.72% 2.91% 1.29% 6.8% SOLDIVO BOND FUND, INC. -A 0.9545 7.5% 1.49% N.A. 7.1% SUN LIFE OF CANADA PROSPERITY BOND FUND, INC. -A 3.0359 9.94% 5.05% 2.28% 9.77% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY GS FUND, INC. -A 1.6786 9.38% 4.57% 1.72% 9.01% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES ALFM DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -A $466.84 4.45% 2.6% 2.76% 4.11% ALFM EURO BOND FUND, INC. -A Є219.71 3.41% 1.6% 1.37% 3.31% ATRAM TOTAL RETURN DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -B $1.2035 7.2% 3.02% 2.56% 6.91% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -A $0.0258 4.03% 1.46% 1.37% 4.03% GREPALIFE DOLLAR BOND FUND CORP. -A $1.71 1.44% -0.21% 0.18% 1.17% PAMI GLOBAL BOND FUND, INC -A $1.0959 7.03% 1.29% -0.96% 5.75% PHILAM DOLLAR BOND FUND, INC. -A $2.3957 12.11% 3.37% 3.01% 10.36% PHILEQUITY DOLLAR INCOME FUND INC. -A $0.0602976 5.94% 2.27% 1.99% 5.79% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR ABUNDANCE FUND, INC. -A $3.1706 10.63% 2.88% 2.62% 10.39% MONEY MARKET FUNDS PRIMARILY INVESTED IN PESO SECURITIES ALFM MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. -A 125.42 4.17% 2.79% 2.14% 3.76% FIRST METRO SAVE AND LEARN MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. -A,3 1.0286 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. PHILAM MANAGED INCOME FUND, INC. -A 1.2494 6.07% 2.56% 1.61% 5.71% SUN LIFE PROSPERITY MONEY MARKET FUND, INC. -A 1.2612 3.8% 2.85% 2.28% 3.44% PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES SUN LIFE PROSPERITY DOLLAR STARTER FUND, INC. -A $1.0357 2.09% N.A. N.A. 1.95% FEEDER FUND PRIMARILY INVESTED IN FOREIGN CURRENCY SECURITIES ALFM GLOBAL MULTI-ASSET INCOME FUND INC. -B,D,4 $0.99 N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. A - NAVPS AS OF THE PREVIOUS BANKING DAY. B - NAVPS AS OF TWO BANKING DAYS AGO. C - LISTED IN THE PSE. D - IN NET ASSET VALUE PER UNIT (NAVPU). 1 - LAUNCH DATE IS JANUARY 3, 2019. 2 - LAUNCH DATE IS JANUARY 28, 2019. 3 - LAUNCH DATE IS FEBRUARY 1, 2019. 4 - LAUNCH DATE IS AUGUST 1, 2019. 5 - LAUNCH DATE IS SEPTEMBER 28, 2019. 6 - RENAMING WAS APPROVED BY THE SEC LAST OCTOBER 12, 2018 (FORMERLY, ONE WEALTHY NATION FUND, INC.). 7 - ADJUSTED DUE TO STOCK DIVIDEND ISSUANCE LAST OCTOBER 9, 2019. "While we endeavor to keep the information accurate, the Philippine Investment Funds Association (PIFA) and its members make no warranties as to the correctness of the newspaper’s publication and assume no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions. You may visit http://www. pifa. com.ph to see the latest NAVPS/NAVPU."

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Banking&Finance BusinessMirror

Dollar peg, banks remain strong amid protests–HK central bank

ONG Kong’s de facto central bank said confidence in the city’s currency peg to the dollar remains strong and the banking sector is robust, despite almost six months of pro-democracy protests that have roiled the financial hub’s economy. “The peg has proven that it will survive different times and different challenging periods for Hong Kong,” Howard Lee, deputy chief executive at the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), said in an interview with Bloomberg Television Thursday. “The benefit is clearly visible and the confidence in the linked exchange rate is very strong among Hong Kong residents and also international investors. We see no need to change it.” Hong Kong’s trade-dependent economy has been pushed into recession this year, as political turmoil shuttered businesses and kept tourists away at a time when output was already slowing due to weaker global demand. Even so, the risk of large scale capital outflows hasn’t materialized, and local banks have reported strong profits. Lee said that the signing into law Wednesday of a bill backing Hong Kong protesters by US President Donald J. Trump was “not welcome news” for financial markets, and echoed his government’s line that the law is unwarranted.

“But as you can see, the market reaction so far has been pretty calm,” Lee said. “A lot of bankers and market practitioners that I have talked to, they feel that the immediate impact of the bill is not going to be huge for the time being.” Lee outlined the actions that Hong Kong’s government has taken to support the local economy amid the downturn, and said that the government could consider further measures if needed. The city’s more than three-decade-old currency peg to the dollar has been the bedrock of its status as a financial hub. Authorities have intervened to defend it consistently over the years, and have this year been forced to push back against renewed attacks by investors, such as Hayman Capital Management founder Kyle Bass. The Hong Kong dollar’s peg is officially set at 7.80 per dollar, but the currency is allowed to trade 5 cents to either side. The HKMA keeps a reserve pile of around $440 billion to maintain it. “There are always people selling Hong Kong dollar, shorting Hong Kong dollar and buying Hong Kong dollar. This is what we have seen for the past 36 years,” Lee said, adding that he hasn’t seen any unusual activity in the local currency. “Everyone sees that the net flow is pretty balanced in the past few months.” Bloomberg News

KPMG South Africa makes headway in rebuilding image

PMG South Africa is winning back customers and no longer bleeding staff as the auditing firm rebuilds an image tarnished by a series of scandals. “The market is beginning to acknowledge and accept the changes that we have made,” Chief Executive Officer Ignatius Sehoole said in an interview at KPMG’s Johannesburg office. More companies no longer fear they are “taking a risky bet by doing business with us. Everyone is also concerned about their own reputation.” The firm has secured a number of new mandates in industries, such as telecommunications, mining and information technology, he said. KPMG has spent the past two years increasing the independence of its board, adding layers of security to its auditing processes and reviewing the risk profiles of clients, the CEO said. A third of KPMG South Africa’s 3 billion rand ($204 million) in revenue has evaporated since late 2017, when the company came under increasing fire for work done for a politically connected family accused of plundering the South African

government’s coffers. The company also audited a bank that collapsed due to alleged fraud and published a misleading report on the nation’s revenue service. The company’s work force has dropped by about 1,000 over the past two years to roughly 2,000 people after clients including Absa Group Ltd., the country’s third-largest bank, South Africa’s Auditor-General and clothing retailer The Foschini Group Ltd. terminated KPMG as their auditors. The firm’s push to reform has seen it part ways with even more clients, while also turning down some new assignments that fall outside its revised risk assessment criteria, Sehoole said. “In that process we are probably seen to be quite schizophrenic,” he said. “We lost quite a number of clients so we are in a space where it is expected that we are looking for more. We are heartened by the fact that our remedial actions are starting to be recognized in the important quarters, by old and new clients, industry bodies, government and by civil society.” Bloomberg News

In Deutsche Bank’s giant yard sale, Goldman Sachs is an eager buyer

EUTSCHE Bank AG has found a willing partner in Goldman Sachs Group Inc. as the German lender tries to quickly off-load billions of euros worth of unwanted assets. The US bank bought securities with a notional value of about £40 billion ($51 billion) from the German firm, people briefed on the matter said. It’s at least the second time Goldman Sachs has taken advantage of the sweeping deleveraging effort underway since Deutsche Bank Chief Executive Officer Christian Sewing unveiled a new turnaround plan in early July. In September, the US investment bank purchased the Asian portion of a portfolio of equity derivatives that the German lender had put up for sale, people familiar with the matter said at the time. Barclays and Morgan Stanley each bought a portion too, the people have said. And BNP Paribas previously agreed to take over the hedge fund business. The assets bought by Goldman in the latest deal are tied to emerging market debt and were previously housed

in Deutsche Bank’s wind-down unit, one person said. They asked not to be identified discussing the private deal. Representatives for Deutsche Bank and Goldman Sachs declined to comment. Deutsche Bank shares rose as much as 1.9 percent on the news, paring this year’s decline to about 4.4 percent. That compares with an increase of about 5 percent for the wider industry. Deutsche Bank’s wind-down unit is a cornerstone of the July revamp under Sewing. Its goal is to release tied-up capital by reducing assets quickly while avoiding deep write-downs on them. Ultimately, that’s expected to help the bank replenish its capital buffers, which the CEO is currently drawing down to cover the costs of the restructuring. For Goldman, it’s an opportunistic move that allows the firm to help burnish its brand and could aid in its expansion of market share. The move isn’t designed to be a major profit driver but allows Goldman to expand its scale and take advantage of a competitor shrinking its trading presence.

Bloomberg News

Friday, November 29, 2019 B3

Govt borrows ₧15.24B from WB for cash transfer for poor program

By Jove Moya

@BMJoveMoya

HE national government borrowed $300 million (P15.244 billion) from the World Bank purportedly to provide additional funding for the program that gives cash to poor families that meet education and health goals. In his speech on Thursday, Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said the World Bank’s “sustained funding support for the government’s conditional cash transfer [CCT] program for the country’s poorest households will go a long way in helping the Duterte administration achieve its agenda of reducing poverty incidence to 14 percent by 2022, and delivering a comfortable life to every Filipino. “ The World Bank has been a strong and reliable partner in the implementation of our [CCT]

initiative called the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, or 4Ps,” Dominguez said. The additional World Bank funding seeks to support the country’s CCT program until 2022. This, according to Dominguez, would be realized “by continuing to support the delivery of CCTs to millions of beneficiaries, improving the project’s implementation performance, monitoring and evaluation procedures and upgrading key dimensions of the 4Ps’ program management.” It will also help boost early

childhood development and fight malnutrition among 8.7 million children from some 4.2 million families currently benefiting from the 4Ps program, a statement from Dominguez’s office said. Dominguez cited the World Bank for its assistance in strengthening the capability of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) as a social protection agency and the setting up of a database for the 4Ps national household targeting system, “which has already gone a long way toward providing public services and support to those who really need it.” As the database is gradually linked to the National ID system, the targeting of beneficiaries and the efficiency and effectiveness of the 4Ps and other social protection initiatives will dramatically improve, Dominguez noted. According to World Bank Executive Mara Warwick, the lender is pleased that the government continues to strive to achieve even greater impacts from the program, including through innovations and investment in strengthening the household

targeting system; sharpening the program’s focus on children’s health and nutrition to reduce childhood stunting; and improving the payment system through introduction of digital technology for timely payments. A World Bank study “estimated that the country’s cash transfer programs are the second most significant contributor to poverty reduction in the Philippines after individuals’ wage earnings from nonagricultural activities,” Warwick, the WB country director for Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines, said. The 4Ps was institutionalized in April, when Republic Act 11310 was enacted. Dominguez said the 4Ps is “an indispensable component of the more comprehensive effort to combat cross-generational poverty.” “The [government’s] economic program has the ultimate goal of bringing down our poverty incidence from 27.6 percent in the first half of 2015 to just 14 percent by 2022, expanding economic inclusion, and making real the dream of a comfortable life for every Filipino,” Dominguez said.

Fund manager plans to plow more money into China market

NE of the largest US fund managers says China’s domestic bond market offers a healthy dose of diversification, and plans to keep plowing money there, even amid tensions between the two nations. “There is nothing obvious that would stop us continuing to put more money over time to work in China,” James Blair, investment director for Asia-Pacific fixed income at Capital Group, said in an interview in Sydney. “We like the China story. We will continue to add assets to the China domestic market.” That makes Capital Group, which oversees more than $1.8 trillion, part of the record inflow into China’s local bond market, which Beijing has increasingly opened up to lure foreign investors and balance pressures on the yuan. It also cuts against rising concerns about any financial decoupling between the

world’s two largest economies. Former US Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson last week blasted the “delusions of decoupling,” speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in Beijing. He warned politicians and bureaucrats against telling “private American players how to deploy private capital for private ends.” Even so, escalating tensions between the US and China have seen diminished demand for China’s sovereign dollar bonds. Allocations to offshore US investors were in the single-digit percentage range in this week’s record issuance, a similar performance to 2018 and a marked contrast to 2017, before the trade war erupted. Blair declined specific comment on the China dollar bonds. A threedecade veteran in the bond market, he said Capital Group owns Chinese sovereign and policy-bank securities, in addition to a small amount

of credit among its $350 billion in fixed-income assets. China’s bonds offer notable premiums over those of other large economies, and they often move less in lockstep with counterparts, such as Treasuries. Ten-year government notes yielded about 3.29 percent last Wednesday, against 1.74 percent for Treasuries, negative 0.13 percent for Japanese bonds, and -0.38 percent on German bunds.

Attractive yields

“IN a low yield world, for a high credit-grade country, there are pretty attractive yields” in China, Blair said. “Also, something that is a bit rare in the bond space, it’s not that correlated with the rest of the bond world. We always like to have some diversifiers.” Blair also likes other local-currency emerging-market debt, including Malaysia’s and Thailand’s. Capital

Group has favored India, where the central bank has done “the right things for investors in the debt,” he said. Heading into next year, global economic growth should remain anemic despite a small pickup in data, and investors should keep a strong tilt toward places that can hand them income, Blair said. “We’ve pushed out recession risk and if it’s lower for longer, people are thinking where do you find pockets of yield where you’ve got reasonable liquidity and valuations are on your side?” Blair said in the interview earlier this week. “Emergingmarket debt is one of the few places where that pops its head above the parapet.” And if any uptick in US inflation did emerge, an attractive way to take advantage of that in the US would be Treasury inflation-protected securities, he said. Bloomberg News

ECB review seen to reset inflation aim to 2% but struggle to do more

UROPEAN Central Bank (ECB) policy-makers expect to tweak their inflation target in an upcoming review of their strategy but will struggle to go much further than that, according to officials with knowledge of the matter. The institution’s first fundamental assessment in 16 years might conclude with a goal of 2 percent— instead of the current “below, but close to, 2 percent,” which some governors worry risks leaving inflation too weak. But achieving a more radical change in measuring and achieving price stability is probably too ambitious, said the people, who asked not to be identified because discussions on the matter are private. An aim of stabilizing price growth at 2 percent in the medium term would have the advantage of removing any pressure to start tightening policy as soon as inflation moves north of 1.5 percent. Ideally, it would also boost expectations—a critical factor for generating actual price growth—by creating room to overshoot for a while, one person said. An ECB spokesman declined to comment. ECB Chief Economist Philip Lane said on Wednesday that it’s a “bad idea” to anticipate the outcome of the review which is soon to be inaugurated by new President Christine Lagarde. Still, the early speculation by insiders reflects the reality that there’s no consensus in understanding the forces shaping

the euro-zone economy, nor what to do about them.

Inflation uncertainty

DESPITE eight years of monetary stimulus with measures including bond purchases and negative interest rates, the previous president, Mario Draghi, was unable to reignite inflation. Price growth has slipped below 1 percent and forecasts for coming years have repeatedly been cut. The chief problem, the officials said, is that no one is really sure how inflation—and associated models, such as the Phillips Curve, which describes the link with unemployment and wages—works any more. For that reason, the review will build on earlier research into why inflation has stayed so low for so long. While a common view is that globalization and technology have put downward pressure on prices, an ECB working group found in 2017 that cyclical factors, such as global shocks and commodity prices have played a bigger role. That report concluded that ECB stimulus, such as quantitative easing helped support inflation expectations. The topic has long puzzled central banks. The US Federal Reserve, which has a dual mandate to keep prices stable and the economy at maximum employment, and which has set itself an inflation goal of 2 percent, plans to complete its own strategic review in mid-2020. One solution advocated publicly by Austrian Gov. Robert Holzmann

would be to lower the goal, making it easier to hit and so reducing the need for stimulus. That view isn’t accepted at the top of the ECB though, amid concerns that interest rates would stabilize at too low a level to provide a buffer against future downturns. Likewise, there are divergent views internally over how much flexibility around the target there should be. Typically hawkish governors, such as Bundesbank President Jens Weidmann see no obvious need to make a change at all. His Dutch colleague Klaas Knot has proposed a band around the goal. Lane advocates “symmetry”— suggesting the ECB would give equal weight to boosting weak inflation and countering too-strong price growth and that a range would therefore be inappropriate. “We care about failing downward as much as failing upward,” he said in Luxembourg, on Wednesday.

Mediocre measure

THE topic of what inflation gauge to target looks even thornier. The ECB acknowledges the flaws of the harmonized index produced by the European Union‘s statistics office—which is based on input from the 19 members-states and which dramatically underweights housing costs—but there is no clear alternative, the officials said. While one of the people said

they couldn’t rule out the central bank constructing its own measure, another warned that it would be crazy to change the yardstick now, when the ECB hasn’t met its objective. The review will also evaluate the ECB’s policy instruments, and could branch into related matters. Bank of France Gov. Francois Villeroy de Galhau said on Thursday in Tokyo, that he wants it to focus on three issues: clarification of the symmetrical approach to the inflation target; a “soft coordination” between monetary policy and financial stability tools; and climate change. That final request will almost certainly be met—Lagarde said in a letter to a European Parliament member last week that the study is an opportunity to reflect on how to address sustainability. It’s a potentially divisive issue though, with officials worried that it could muddy the price-stability mandate and compromise the ECB’s independence. Bloomberg News

B4 Friday, November 29, 2019

Fashion designer Leilani Kate Yalung debuts on her own runway show

EILANI Kate Yalung is an 18-yearold award-winning fashion designer and creative director based in Manila. With her self-titled fashion house, Leilani Kate Yalung Manila, she creates stunning custom and RTW gowns that embody the French philosophy of parfaitement inegal or “perfectly unequal” all while drawing inspiration from our beloved country. Kate began her journey as a budding creative at age 14 by taking Saturday

workshop classes during her 2nd year of high school. Later, she completed courses from the country’s top fashion institutes (Style Studio, SoFA, SLIMS, and ICEFDS), helping her to evolve her design ethics and skill alongside her list of accolades. On June 2019, Kate championed the Dress-Up Barbie Competition with her Ibong Adarna-inspired creation. This put her at the center of media buzz, where her styling prowess enchanted audiences all over

the metro, inevitably leaving the people clamoring for more. Last November 16, Kate celebrated her 18th birthday with a runway show held in Buddah Bar Manila, Makati City. Aptly titled, #K8teenRunway, Kate celebrated her own debut by debuting an 18 piece collection inspired by her all-time favorite muse: the Philippine culture. Entitled Hiwaga ng mga Bulaklak, the haute couture line was set as the visual transition to the traditional 18 Roses segment. The collection was laden with stunning natural color schemes centered around white, off-white, and nude tones. To achieve that hyperfeminine and ethereal touch, tulle and organdy became the star fabrics of the show. The debutant’s own gown is a Filipiniana fairytale, with the beautiful structured butterfly sleeves and an intricately embroidered train. Her second gown, which she donned to introduce her “Pag-Ibig sa Tinubuang Lupa” collection, was a hot red pantsuit that featured a custom-painted train by local artist Carissa King. The Carabaoinspired gown is an ode to Fernando Amorsolo’s female portraits, as well as the Philippine flag’s primary colors.

Wilcon showcased topnotch products at PHILCONSTRUCT 2019

XHIBITING its wide array of home building products, Wilcon Depot participated in the PHILCONSTRUCT: 30th Philippine International Construction Equipment, Building Materials, Interior & Exterior Products Exhibition and Technology Forum held recently at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. Being a regular exhibitor of Philconstruct, Wilcon Depot displayed innovative, high-quality, and trusted home construction products with its well-designed booth. Wilcon gives every visitor a realistic approach of its booth for them to have a hands-on experience of their products. Through this exhibit, Wilcon has introduced new products and innovations among its clients and other industry professionals. The exhibit showcases products like building materials and components, construction equipment and materials, building accessories, construction accessories and essentials, interior design materials, exterior design products, building and construction machinery and other related range of products in the Building Construction, Industrial Products industries. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Philconstruct makes the biggest edition of the show to date—with over 100,000 square meters of exhibition

UJI-HAYA Electric Corp. (FHEC) and LSIS Korea joins hands with the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers (IIEE) of the Philippines, Inc. for the organization’s 44th Annual National Convention on November 27-30, 2019 at the SMX-MOA in Pasay City. IIEE started in 1975 with 500 members. It is composed of the country’s power experts and now has a membership of 47,000 and counting. FHEC was established in 1979 and has become the biggest manufacturer of top-quality power protection systems providing a full spectrum of electrical engineering services to leading commercial and industrial corporations in the country. FHEC’s strategic partner, LSIS Korea (Leading Solution Industrial Systems) provides world-class electrical components

and maintains a global presence thru 9 international ventures, 11 overseas branches, and 224 partners in 77 countries. To see more of LSIS and Fuji-Haya Electric Corp.’s industry innovations, visit Booths 71-76 at IIEE’s 44th Annual National Convention. For details, check out Fuji-Haya's Facebook page or their website at www.fujihayaelectric.com.

Goldilocks Opens 743rd Store

OLDILOCKS, the country’s number one bakeshop continues their mission of “having a store on every corner” with the opening of their 743rd store located at LNBC Imelda Avenue cor Felix Ave., Cainta Junction, Rizal. Goldilocks franchisees Niko Espiritu, Nitrie Espiritu, and Macy Espiritu Tan led the momentous occasion with the customary opening spiel, ribbon cutting ceremony, cake cutting, and motorcade. Another highlight of the store’s official grand opening were Goldilocks Mamon freebies which were given to the first 100

customers of the establishment which garnered a thunderous applause by the patrons in attendance. The opening of Goldilocks 743rd not only brought smiles to the people within the community, it also aims to strengthen the resolve of the Goldilocks family, who continue to strive to be a part of the everyday Filipino celebrations. For more information, you may also follow Goldilocks on Twitter or Instagram at @GoldilocksPH, on the Goldilocks Facebook page, or at the official Goldilocks website at www.goldilocks.com.ph

500 Pasig residents benefit from weekend medical mission space including its expansion tents at the World Trade Center and the outdoor display for heavy equipment in Ipil-Ipil lot at the CCP Complex Grounds. Philconstruct is a 4-day event that attracted more than thousands of exhibitors, which aims to strengthen the country's various structures and infrastructures introducing building materials and construction equipment from 23 countries. It serves as an annual gathering of hundreds of leading suppliers and thousands of trade buyers in one room.

Wilcon will continually share its contribution to help in innovating the construction industry in the Philippines. Discover something new and learn more about what Wilcon has in store for you by visiting any Wilcon Depot store nationwide. You can check out their website at www.wilcon.com.ph and follow them on their official social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram at @wilcondepot.ph. You can also now shop online with Wilcon by visiting www.shop. wilcon.com.ph.

Pfizer Philippines employees volunteer as part of 65th anniversary celebration

S part of Pfizer celebrating 65 years in the Philippines, Pfizer set a goal to reach 300 hours of volunteer time at non-profit otganizations in Manila, with actual volunteer time suprassing 800 hours over the course of September. With the help of Pfizer Philippines Foundation Inc., employees were able to volunteer their time at non-profit organizations that included SOS Children’s Villages Philippines, ICanServe Foundation, Kythe Foundation, and Rise Against Hunger Philippines. Employees challenged themselves during their anniversary month to support organizations with the corporate social missions of promoting sustainability, advancing health outcomes, and improving lives of Filipinos. Over the month of September, Pfizer employees at the company’s

Fuji Haya/LSIS Electrifies the IIEE 44th Annual National Convention

administrative operations, management, and sales teams across the country departments were encouraged to pledge their volunteer hours to an organization of their choosig; specifically, organizations that focus their efforts on health, children welfare, and senior care. The goal of this year’s community month program was to give a minimum of 300 hours to the community, in which Pfizer aims to match the pledged hours into monetary donations toward SOS Children’s Village. “At Pfizer Philippines, each and every one of our employees believes that we can add value to the communities where we live and work. Rendering our time is a beautiful expression of our personal and professional values in action,” said Andres Riedel, Pfizer Philippines country manager.

“As we celebrate our 65th year here in the Philippines, we are working to make a positive impact on society, not just today but in the next 65 years as well. Through this effort we are reminded that the needs of our community extend far beyond what can be accomplished in a single day or even a month,” he furthered. Donating time to our community is part of Pfizer’s ongoing effort of paid time off for volunteer work. Through company alone here in the Philippines, through their Engage Community Service Program, reached more than 2,500 volunteer hours as of September 2019. The volunteer efforts reinforce Pfizer’s commitment to improve lives through improving health in the communities that it serves.

ORE than 500 residents from Pasig benefitted from the medical mission that was held on November 16 at the Karangalan Park in Pasig City. Organized by the Pasiguenas Organization for Women’s Empowerment and Recognition (POWER), the medical mission was dubbed “Most Requested Services (MRS) for Pasiguenos” and was spearheaded by POWER Chairwoman Maribel Andaya-Eusebio. The POWER MRS medical mission, which was held in cooperation with We Care, offered general consultations, laboratory services, blood pressure check ups, eye refraction, cataract evaluation, diabetic retinopathy screening. Free medicines and vitamins were also given away during the medical mission. Free eyeglasses were also given to those who needed them.

“Sa medical mission na ito, marami pong nabigyan ng tulong, kasama na po diyan ang mga bata at mga senior citizens,” Mrs. Eusebio said. To show their concern for those in need, POWER gave away wheelchairs, quad canes, walkers and crutches to PWDs and senior citizens who attended the medical mission. Other services that were offered on that day were free haircut, manicure, back massage as well as activities for children like coloring face painting. “I would like to express my wholehearted gratitude to the barangay officials, POWER coordinators, We Care colleagues, Sangguniang Kabataan and of course to former Pasig City Mayor Bobby Eusebio and to may family,” Mrs. Eusebio said. The goal of POWER MRS is to help families, especially women and children, who have not been able to avail of medical attention.

OLYMPIAN EXPERIENCE TO BENEFIT ATHLETES Sports BusinessMirror

| Friday, November 29, 2019 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

THE Airbnb Experiences platform already offers tens of thousands of special experiences for its customers visiting cities all over the world. AP

HE “vast majority” of income generated by the planned Airbnb Olympian Experiences venture will go to participating athletes, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has disclosed. The initiative was launched last week as part of a new worldwide sponsorship agreement between the IOC and the 11-year-old Internet-based room rental service. The value of the nine-year deal has been widely reported as $500 million (£386 million/€452 million), although Airbnb Chief Executive and Cofounder Brian Chesky claims this figure is “not correct.” Asked by insidethegames what percentage of income generated by Airbnb Olympian Experiences would go to participating athletes and the IOC, the IOC said this breakdown was “confidential.” It added, however, that “the vast majority is for the participating athlete,” with Airbnb taking a commission. The Airbnb Experiences platform already offers tens of thousands of special experiences for its customers visiting cities all over the world. Offers currently range from yoga with goats in Pattersonville in the United States, to a mole cooking class with an indigenous cook in Mexico City. Olympian Experiences is expected to be launched on the Airbnb platform early next year. According to the IOC, offers will include “everything from the chance to train with an Olympian to exploring a city with an elite athlete.” In the coming months, Airbnb and the IOC are to provide support and training to athletes interested in becoming a host on the platform. The IOC says that athletes involved “would be Olympians, Paralympians or elite athletes recognized through the Athlete 365 platform.” This platform now carries a basic explanation of the concept and an opportunity to open a personal Athlete 365 account under the headline, “Turn your Olympic experience into a business on Airbnb.” Targeted sports experiences aimed at enthusiasts appear to be a growing segment of the international leisure and tourism business at present. Another service provider—letsdothis.com—which aims to connect consumers with a wide range of endurance events in sports such as cycling, running and triathlon, identifies megastars Serena Williams, Usain Bolt and Paula Radcliffe on its web site as Let’s Do This investors. A quote from Radcliffe states: “The work Let’s Do This is doing to encourage more people to take part, from deeply personal support, to giving you a full refund for any reason if you no longer feel you can do it, is truly awesome and so when the opportunity arose to invest I was delighted to be involved.” Bolt is quoted as saying that Let’s Do This is “a company that is totally committed to changing the world and inspiring more people to get out there.” These developments are hitting the market at a time when the earning power of elite athletes away from the richest sports has been in the news via discussions over appropriate prize money and the Rule 40 guidelines covering sponsorship at Olympic Games-time. Paris 2024 also remains free to negotiate a sponsorship agreement with a hotel partner, in spite of the new

worldwide sponsorship deal with room renting platform Airbnb, according to the IOC. The deal with the United States tech firm, unveiled on Monday, has sparked instant controversy in France, with hoteliers saying they will suspend participation in the organization of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games and are being backed up by local politicians. Tourist-oriented, Internet-based, short-term room rentals are believed by many to be a factor in pushing up residential rents in a number of European cities, including Paris. Housing is expected to be a key issue in municipal elections in the French capital, scheduled for next March. Asked by insidethegames for a response to the negative reactions to this week’s deal on the part of French politicians and hoteliers, the IOC pointed out that “while the global agreement with Airbnb includes providing sustainable and affordable accommodation solutions for all Olympic Games through to 2028, including Paris 2024, it does not affect each Olympic Games organizer’s ability to work with hotel partners, or reach a sponsorship agreement with a hotel partner.” Asked whether it would send someone to talk to French

hoteliers, the IOC provided no direct answer, but said: “Regarding Airbnb’s operations in France, the company is working with the local authorities in Paris and France to ensure responsible home sharing.” Help pages on the company’s French web site appear to indicate that from the start of 2019, main residences in a total of 18 French cities may only be rented out entirely for a maximum of 120 nights in the calendar year. Paris is among cities on the list, as are the nearby towns of Versailles and Neuilly-sur-Seine. It is explained that the measure is among commitments made to French authorities by a body called the National Union for the Promotion of Holiday Renting (UNPLV) in June 2018. The value of the IOC/Airbnb deal has been widely reported as $500 million (£386 million/€452 million) in cash and value in kind. However, Chesky has Tweeted that “the $500m number cited is not correct.” He went on: “I can’t disclose the actual number, but it’s not $500m, despite what ‘sources say.’” Insidethegames

PARIS Mayor Anne Hidalgo has been extremely critical of the plan. AP

THE International Olympic Committee notes the World AntiDoping Agency panel’s report did not indicate any wrongdoing by the sports movement in this regard, in particular the Russian Olympic Committee or its members.

IOC backs ‘strongest sanctions’ against cheats in Moscow lab

HE International Olympic Committee (IOC) claims it will support the toughest sanctions possible for those responsible for manipulation of the Moscow Laboratory data, welcoming the opportunity for Russian athletes to compete should they demonstrate they are not implicated by noncompliance. A statement from the IOC condemned the “flagrant manipulation” as “an attack on the credibility of sport itself and is an insult to the sporting movement worldwide.” The IOC also noted the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) panel’s report did not indicate any wrongdoing by the sports movement in this regard, in particular the Russian Olympic Committee or its members. The statement from the IOC followed the publication of

recommendations made by the Wada Compliance Review Committee (CRC) to the organization’s Executive Committee. Wada’s CRC recommended a four-year sanction against the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (Rusada), following “an extremely serious case of noncompliance with the requirement to provide an authentic copy of the Moscow data, with several aggravating features.” The Wada had demanded the Russian Sports Ministry and Rusada explain “inconsistencies” it found in the data when it opened a compliance procedure against the body, first suspended in 2015 before being reinstated last year, in September. Russia was ordered to address the differences between the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

database provided by a whistle-blower in October 2017 and the version Wada extracted from the facility in January. The Wada CRC determined the data was “neither complete nor fully authentic” after reports from experts, adding further significant deletions and/or alterations had been made in December 2018 and January 2019. It was also determined that fabricated evidence had also been added into the LIMS database to support the argument now being advanced by the Russian authorities that it was Grigory Rodchenkov and two co-conspirators who falsified entries in the Moscow LIMS database. Should a four-year sanction come into force the sanctions would cover both the 2020 and 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo and Beijing.

“Russian athletes and their support personnel may only participate in major events staged in the four-year period where they are able to demonstrate that they are not implicated in any way by the noncompliance,” the Wada CRC recommendation states. This would include the athletes not being mentioned in “incriminating circumstances in the McLaren reports, there are no positive findings reported for them in the database, and no data relating to their samples has been manipulated.” The Russian flag would be prohibited from major events during the four-year period. The IOC has called for Russian authorities deliver fully authenticated raw data to ensure that justice can be achieved, with guilty athletes punished and the innocent competitors protected. IOC President Thomas Bach suggested in an interview last week they would be against a blanket suspension on Russian athletes from Tokyo 2020. The organization has welcomed the opportunity for Russian athletes to compete, while noting the Russian sports movement were not found to have been involved in the manipulation of data. “We note that the report proves that any manipulation of the data is the sole responsibility of the Russian authorities: ‘The Russian authorities were responsible for preserving the integrity of the Moscow Data’,” the IOC statement read. “At the same time, we also note that the report finds that the sports movement has not been involved in any of this manipulation, and that the report does not indicate any wrongdoing by the sports movement in this regard, in particular the Russian Olympic Committee or its members. “In this context, the IOC welcomes the opportunity offered by Wada to Russian athletes to compete, ‘where they are able to demonstrate that they are not implicated in any way by the noncompliance.’ “With regard to the sanctions following this manipulation, we will still have to evaluate these in detail.” Insidethegames

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Friday, November 29, 2019

Phisgoc defends SEAG expenditures T HE organizers of the 30th Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) said on Thursday that state spending for the Philippines’s hosting of the regional sports competition are all accounted for and were made in compliance with Commission on Audit (COA) rules. Ramon Suzara, chief operating officer of the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) made this assurance as he decried the statement made by Sen. Panfilo Lacson erroneously comparing the manner of spending done for the country’s hosting of the SEA Games to the multibillionpeso pork-barrel scam. Suzara noted that the funds spent by the Phisgoc for the SEA Games cannot be compared in any manner whatsoever to the shameless pork-barrel racket perpetrated by Janet Napoles, who utilized so-called private foundations to siphon state funds to ghost projects. “Every centavo spent by Phisgoc were all used for the benefit of the athletes and to ensure the Philippines’s successful hosting of the SEA Games,” Suzara said. “Senator Lacson is welcome to inspect the world-class facilities and other requirements that were prepared for this year’s SEA Games so that he can see for himself how the funds were prudently spent by the organizers.”

He issued the statement in response to Lacson’s allegation that the transfer of P1.5 billion in public funds to Phisgoc, a private foundation, was questionable and could be compared to Napoles’s pork-barrel scam. Suzara said that while Phisgoc is a private foundation, 80 percent of its members come from the government. Both the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) are well represented in the Phisgoc. He also recalled that during the Senate plenary deliberations on the PSC budget, Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, who chairs Phisgoc, provided senators with a breakdown of the P1.5-billion fund. Suzara also pointed out that it was Lacson himself who said that Cayetano assured senators that Phisgoc consulted COA every step of the way in spending funds for the SEA Games. Phisgoc’s job of overseeing the preparations for the SEA Games is nothing new, Suzara said, as this was the same strategy done when the Philippines hosted the SEA Games in 2005. Other Asean members also formed organizing committees to oversee the preparations of the sports event in their countries. Suzara said Lacson might have forgotten that due to the delay in the approval of the

2019 national budget, Phisgoc had to race against time in procuring the necessary equipment and other requirements for the SEA Games. “The 2019 budget was only signed into law by the President in April because Congress was unable to approve the budget bill on time. This gave the government less than six months to procure all that was needed to ensure the Philippines’s seamless hosting of the SEA Games,” Suzara noted. While Speaker Cayetano recommended to the President that the procurement be done by the Department of Budget and Management, Phisgoc had no choice but to do part of this job because of the lack of time, Suzara said. “It takes several months to get things moving in compliance with procurement rules before either the DBM or PSC can bid out contracts. We had less than six months to mobilize to ensure that the SEA Games would push through,” Suzara said. Suzara said Phisgoc is ready to face any investigation or post-audit of the spending done for the SEA Games as earlier made clear by Cayetano. He also welcomed the suggestion of Albay Rep. Joey Salceda for the Senate to conduct the legislative inquiry to ensure that it would be impartial and transparent.

CAYETANO: I’M READY TO FACE INQUIRY P

CAYETANO

HILIPPINE Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) Chairman Alan Peter Cayetano assured that he will participate in any investigation should anyone file a formal complaint after the 30th Southeast Asian Games. Allegations of corruption and organizational blunders have hounded Cayetano, and the House Speaker sounded ballistic on Thursday when he retaliated against his critics and told media that he will also expose those who are deliberately tarnishing the country’s hosting of the Games. “Basta ako ay handa sa investigation after the SEA Games. Humanda rin kayo sa imbestigasyon kasi I will unmask those who shamelessly o mga walang hiya na gusto talagang sirain ang ating bansa,” Cayetano said. “Hindi ako magtatago. I’d like to tell you, December 12, make me accountable,” he added. Cayetano made the remark two days before the opening ceremony of the Games, which the organizers say as the most

Bucks snatch 9th straight win on hot Middleton comeback

ILWAUKEE—Without Khris Middleton’s productive return, the Milwaukee Bucks might not have outlasted the Atlanta Hawks. Giannis Antetokounmpo had 30 points and 10 rebounds, Middleton scored 16 points in his return from injury and the Bucks beat the Atlanta Hawks, 111-102, for their ninth consecutive victory in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Middleton, who had been out since November 10 with a thigh contusion, didn’t start and played 20 minutes. He helped the Bucks rally after they trailed through three quarters. “I think guys were trying to pull it together and trying to fight through a little bit of fatigue or [being] banged up,” the AllStar forward said. “We’re still figuring out ways to win ballgames, which is the most important thing.” Antetokounmpo followed his season-high 50 points on Monday by notching his 18th consecutive doubledouble. The reigning MVP’s streak of double-doubles is the longest to begin a season since Bill Walton opened with 34 straight in 1976-1977. Antetokounmpo was 5 for 13 from the free-throw line for the Eastern Conference leaders, on their longest winning streak since winning 10 straight in 1985-86. Former Bucks forward Jabari Parker scored a season-high 33 points for the Hawks and added 14 rebounds, also a season high. Trae Young scored 29 points as Atlanta (4-14) dropped its eighth straight. “It’s always going to be about putting that complete game together and understanding from a strategic standpoint,

from a game-plan standpoint, from an effort standpoint, how to do that,” said Atlanta Coach Lloyd Pierce. “The makes and misses aren’t the issue.” Parker, who played for Milwaukee from 2014-18, scored the Hawks’ first eight points on their way to a 17-15 lead. Then Milwaukee scored 18 straight, getting seven from Middleton, to jump to a 33-17 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Hawks battled back in the second period, behind Parker’s 15 points and Young’s 14. By the time Young drained a 3-pointer at the buzzer going into halftime, they had shaved the Bucks’ lead to 60-59. The Hawks took an 82-81 lead into the fourth, but Antetokounmpo

extraordinary ceremony where Filipino culture takes the spotlight. It will be held at the Philippine Arena, where the customary parade of delegations will take place. Simultaneously, boxing pride Manny Pacquiao and world champion Nesthy Petecio will light the cauldron at the worldclass New Clark City. How the show will run remains a question as Phisgoc encouraged the public to “wait and see” the spectacle on Saturday. The cauldron, located near the 20,000-seater Athletics Stadium, is allegedly overpriced billing at P55 million. Logistical problems also rose since the day thousands of foreign delegates started arriving in the country. But Phisgoc maintained that the organization has provided relief to every glitch. “We have resolved those things. It’s normal for any host to have those problems especially before the opening ceremony,” Phisgoc COO Ramon Suzara said.

THE Philippines’s Michelle Anne Cruzado (70) and Jerlou Berdan (21) square off with Singapore’s Mindy Lim (6) and Amanda Yeap (22) in floorball action at the Univers

COO SEES 2 GOLDS FOR PINOY N ATIONAL bowlers vowed to come up strong when they see action in the 30th Southeast Asian Games. Philippine Bowling Federation (PBF) Secretary-General Bong Coo said they are looking at winning at least two gold medals in the competitions set from December 3 to 8 at the Coronado Lanes inside Starmall in Mandaluyong City. A legendary bowler who won six gold medals in the country’s first hosting of the Games in 1981, Coo said

Ramon Rafael Bonilla

sparked the crowd by scoring over Parker on a drive to the hoop and drawing Parker’s fourth foul. Robin Lopez tipped in Antetokounmpo’s missed free throw, giving Milwaukee an 87-84 lead with just over 10 minutes left. “The fourth quarter is where we lost, so I’d rather have the momentum at the right time,” said Parker, who scored only two in the fourth. The game stayed tight until Middleton hit a three-point basket with just under four minutes left to put Milwaukee up 102-93. Milwaukee held Atlanta to 43 points in the second half. AP

she is pinning her hopes on veterans Liza del Rosario and Frederick Ong, as well as rising star Merwin Tan. Del Rosario has been campaigning internationally for more than two decades while Ong is the last player to win a gold medal in the SEA Games after ruling the men’s singles event of the 26th SEA Games in Indonesia in 2011. The 19-year-old Tan is the Asian youth champion and is tipped to give the keglers from powerhouse countries like Singapore and Malaysia

Fiba conducts draws for Olympic hoops qualifying tourneys

ATLANTA’S Evan Turner swats the ball out of the hands of Milwaukee’s Khris Middleton. AP GIANNIS ANTETOKOUNMPO and Greece will have to win a few games in Canada first if they want to qualify for the Olympics. AP

F Giannis Antetokounmpo is going to compete in the Olympics next summer, Greece will have to win a few games in Canada first. The draws to see which countries will grab the remaining basketball berths in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics—four men’s spots and 10 women’s spots in the 12-team fields—were held Wednesday in Switzerland, and a Greece-Canada matchup in one of those tournaments is guaranteed in the early stages of the event next June. And there’s a chance that the turnaround for some players and coaches could be incredibly quick. The men’s qualifiers start on June 23, just two days after a possible Game Seven of the National Basketball Association (NBA) Finals. Canada drew Greece as one of the five teams coming into Victoria, British Columbia, next summer—so there will be some player and coaching star power. Greece will be coached by Rick Pitino, Canada is being coached by Nick Nurse of the defending NBA champion Toronto Raptors and some top Canadian players already are starting to commit to the event. “I want to play my part to help push our team into the Olympics and compete at the highest world stage. Let’s go Canada,” Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets wrote Tuesday on Twitter. Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, New Orleans’ Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Toronto’s Oshae Brissett also have committed, and Miami’s Kelly Olynyk said earlier this fall that he would consider it, as well. It’s unclear if Antetokounmpo intends to play in the qualifiers. His Milwaukee Bucks are one of the top teams in the NBA, with a good chance of reaching the NBA Finals or at least making a long playoff run.

Canada, Serbia, Lithuania and Croatia are the host sites for the men’s qualifiers. There are six teams in each, split into a pair of three-team groups at each site. Teams in the same group will play each other once to determine two semifinalists from each side. Those four teams will play a single-elimination tournament to decide the winner, and each of the four winners will get an Olympic berth. “Being able to host a Fiba Olympic qualifying tournament at home is a great opportunity for our team on the road to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games,” Canada Basketball CEO Glen Grunwald said when his nation was announced as a host for the qualifiers. The women’s qualifiers to be held in France, Serbia, China and Belgium are not as daunting as the men’s events. AP

OVERALL GROSS WINNER

Justine Tambunting (with trophy) shoots a three under 69 to bag overall low gross honors in the 25th anniversary golf tournament of real-estate firm PA Properties dubbed 10th Pelagio Alvarez Foundation Tournament. PA Properties President Jonathan Lu awards Tambunting at the Legends course of Manila Southwoods recently.

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Friday, November 29, 2019

PSC CHIEF TO ATHLETES:

GO ALL OUT FOR GOLD P

HILIPPINE Sports Commission William Ramirez wants Filipino athletes to settle for no less than the gold medal especially that the sports agency has invested in them a total of P1 billion for the international training and exposure, equipment, hiring of foreign coaches, education and nutrition. “Go for the gold as if your life depends on them and an entire nation will be grateful,” said Ramirez, who is also the chef de mission of Team Philippines. “The Government has been very supportive of our national athletes. And it’s

high time that such support gets the results expected from the athletes’ all-out campaign in the SEA Games. We expect nothing less than a 100 percent effort from our national athletes in front of their fellow Filipinos, who I am very sure, will come out in droves to support them,” the sports chief added. As expected, the Philippines is fielding the largest delegation in the SEA Games—1,115 athletes and 753 coaches and officials for a total of 1,868. The athletes will be shooting for most of the 530 golds at stake in 56 sports, scattered in 44 venues spread across Metro Manila and Southern Luzon, Subic and New

Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. Combat sports account for most of the gold-medal projection, with arnis tipped to get at least 15 golds from the 20 events on tap. There are at least five golds each from judo, kickboxing, jiu-jitsu, sambo, wrestling, according to research by sports leaders. Outside of combat sports, dancesport is projected to get 10 gold medals, while athletics and gymnastics are confident of getting nine. This is the fourth time the Philippines is hosting the event. The first one was in 1981, when it was still called the

Southeast Asian Peninsular Games. Filipinos placed second during their second hosting in 1991, before finally winning the overall championship in what is now known as “The Miracle of 2005.” That year, the Philippines asserted its supremacy in the region by harvesting 291 medals (113 golds, 84 silvers, 94 bronzes), with Thailand securing second spot, and Vietnam placing third. “Nobody expected us to win in 2005, but we did,” said Ramirez. “For nine days that year, Filipinos were united by our athletes’ sporting achievement. We did it once, let’s do it again, for flag and country.”

BEACH VOLLEY UNWRAPS IN SUBIC T

HE beach volleyball pair of Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons ushers the start of the Subic Cluster action of the 30th Southeast Asian Games at the Subic Bay Tennis Court on Friday. Four-time University Athletics Association of the Philippines beach volleyball champion Rondina, Pons, together with Dzi Gervacio and Dji Rodriguez banner the flag against TimorLeste at 9 a.m. Seventeen of the 56 sports will be held in Subic. The beach volleyball games mark the

official opening of hostilities in the area since action at the Metro Manila, Clark and Southern Luzon Clusters have already kicked off. Rondina and Pons hope to match the successful campaign of Filipino-Americans Heidi Ilustre and Diane Pascua when the country hosted the Games in 2005. Meanwhile, the Edmar Bonono-Jude Garcia and Jaron Requinton-James Buytrago tandems will represent the country in the men’s side. Subic will also host windsurfing,

canoe/kayak, traditional boat race, dragon boat race, duathlon, triathlon, modern pentathlon, beach hand ball, muay thai, pencak silat, table tennis, sailing, sepak takraw, aquatics (open water swimming), chess and rowing. Triathlon could be the first source of gold medal for the host nation with John Chicano and Edward Macalala in the men’s category, and reigning champion Kim Mangrobang and Filipino-American Kim Kilgroe in the women’s side. Ramon Rafael Bonilla

sity of the Philippines Human Kinetics Gym in Quezon City on Thursday. NONOY LACZA

Y BOWLERS

a run for their money. Rounding out the team are Patrick Nuqui, Kenneth Chua, Lara PosadasWong, Alexis Sy and Bea Hernandez. “We’re not promising anything, but we will surely give other teams a very good fight,” said Coo, whose wards had an intensive international buildup courtesy of the Philippine Sports Commission and the PBF headed by Chairman Sen. Tito Sotto and President Steve Robles. “What we have is a solid and fighting team that is capable of winning at least

two gold medals,” she added. Coo said playing on their home floor would not be a factor in the tournament. “Bowling is an immeasurable sport. A lot of factors would be in play once the tournament started,” said Coo, who is regarded as the greatest Filipino bowler of all time together with Paeng Nepomuceno. “Playing at home could even be a disadvantage as players tend to get conscious and nervous. But our team is ready. They have trained hard and long enough to brush off distractions and focus on winning the gold.”

Azkals, Malditas face Malaysians

T SISI RONDINA and Bernadeth Pons get their first acid test in the Games.

LPGA commish wants companies to ‘walk the talk’ in sponsorship

APLES, Florida—Not even Commissioner Mike Whan is clear on the length of the contract extension the Ladies Professional Golfers’ Association (LPGA) Tour gave him. That’s the least of his concerns. Whan says his contract has been structured in such a way that his departure—either leaving or getting fired—is not tied to whatever income is left on the deal.

What drives Whan as he enters the second decade is getting more companies to show support for women in their marketing dollars. In a strong letter to LPGA members announcing his extension last week, he raised the question that if a company’s stated values are to provide equal opportunity for women, why wouldn’t that be reflected in the marketing and sponsorship money it spends?

“How is it that nearly every company claims equal opportunity is a cornerstone of their business, but 95 percent of all corporate sports sponsorship dollars are spent on male sports?” he wrote. Whan was equally bullish on the weekend of the CME Globe Tour Championship, which offered $5 million in prize money with a record $1.5 million for the winner. The new mantra: Live your values.

“I’ve had this conversation with a lot of CEOs. Some like it and some hate it,” he said. “Don’t call it a value statement unless you’re going to hold that mirror up to everything. You can’t just decide it’s a value statement and it really works for this employee meeting, but it doesn’t work for this marketing meeting, it doesn’t work for this sponsorship discussion. “That doesn’t mean everybody is going to agree with me,” he said. “In fact, I can tell you that 95 percent of the companies disagree with me, evidently. But I do think it’s coming.... There’s investors that will only invest now

in companies that have these kind of values reflected in everything they do. When money stops flowing to you because you’re not walking the talk, the world is going to change.” The LPGA Tour will have a 33-tournament schedule this year with a record $75.1 million in prize money. The PGA Tour offered $81.75 million from its nine tournaments in the fall. For the season, the total purse is $374.7 million for 48 official events, not including the $15-million bonus for the Tour Championship. The European Tour has 44 tournaments with total prize money of just over $200 million.

HE Philippines seek redemption when the Azkals face Malaysia in a Group A match of men’s football on Thursday in the 30th Southeast Asian Games. The Azkals third match in the Games is set at 8 p.m. at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium. Tha Malditas will also look for their first win in the tournament when they face also Malaysia in women’s play at the Biñan Stadium in Laguna also at 8 p.m. The Azkals failed to bring the momentum of a 1-1 draw with Cambodia and lost to Myanmar, 2-1, on Wednesday. Philippines fell to third spot for one point. The Azkals occupy the cellar in their group. Myanmar stayed in strong contention after drawing Malaysia, 1-1, also in the group stage. “We can be lucky. In life, you need to be deserving to be lucky. But now for sure, we deserve to be lucky. We will play offensively and believe truly that we can,” Azkals Coach Goran Milojevic said. Milojevic still believes that the national team could pull something from their sleeves and upset the Malaysians. “Generally, I’ve been working on my players and I believe in them. And my perception is always like a coach they can’t or can. But these boys will give 100 percent of their abilities both matches and they were good. They pushed me to believe in a successful match again.” “Some situation keeps happening on the match. We must do planning but for sure we will try to play offensively.”

New Davis Cup proves exciting but calendar still a challenge

ADRID—Despite its flaws, the new Davis Cup got a passing grade on its first edition, with its modern look being accompanied by plenty of excitement on the court. But despite the mostly positive reviews, the future success of the revamped tournament still depends on making it fit on a crowed tennis calendar that already has two other team competitions trying to establish themselves—the Laver Cup and the Association of Tennis Professionals Cup. The top-ranked players on tour—Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic—don’t think the Davis Cup and the ATP Cup can coexist. Both suggest a merger would be the best solution. “I don’t see two World Cups in one month on our calendar. That’s something that I personally don’t see,” said Nadal, who on Sunday led Spain to its sixth Davis Cup title with a win over first-time finalist Canada. The inaugural ATP Cup, to be played with 24 teams, will take place in January in Australia. The Davis Cup debuted in Madrid with 18 teams. “We have an opportunity to finally have a great competition,” Nadal said. “There is no other way than have only one big, big competition. I think Davis Cup is the right name because it’s part of the history of our sport. And it will be great

if we are able to put everything together.” Djokovic talked about the possibility of a “Super Cup” of tennis. “Scheduling was always an issue, for both ATP Cup and Davis Cup,” he said. “An idea was the merge between the two. Looking long term, I personally don’t think that the two events can coexist six weeks apart. It’s just a little bit too congested.” The International Tennis Federation signed a 25-year partnership with the Kosmos group cofounded by Barcelona star Gerard Piqué to make the Davis Cup more attractive and lucrative. It transformed the year-long tournament into a one-week event played in a World Cupstyle format in a single venue. “We have to remember, there’s 119-year history that the Davis Cup has and a very important place within tennis and the calendar. The calendar is the challenge. It always has been,” ITF President David Haggerty said. “But again, we can only control what we can control, and that is Davis Cup. And we’re doing the best that we can. And again, we’ll sit down with other tennis bodies, but can’t make any promises on what might happen with other events.” Piqué said the opinion of players like Nadal and Djokovic needs to be heard.

“It makes no sense to have right now two different competitions that are very similar,” he said. “In the next few months I think we will start talking again with the ATP. And I hope in the next few months we can announce something.” Piqué said talks with Roger Federer, who co-owns the Laver Cup event that is played between European and world teams, have not advanced recently. “It’s his baby, his competition, and he wants to protect [it]. And I totally understand,” Piqué said. “What we will try to do is to try to put the Davis Cup obviously in another level because we are talking about 119 years of history. You cannot compare both events. But we will try to do the best we can for our competition to make it as big as possible.” Kosmos and the ITF hope to play the new Davis Cup in September instead of making it the season-ending tournament in November. Djokovic said that would make the competition more attractive to players. “It is the last week of the year. It’s definitely a tough schedule for a lot of players,” Djokovic said. “It’s really difficult because you have a whole season and then you have to push yourself for another week and then eventually play singles, doubles every day.” AP

RAFAEL NADAL and his teammates celebrate their Davis Cup victory. AP

Ryniel Berlanga

U.E.F.A. SOFT ON RUSSIA D

By James Ellingworth The Associated Press

ÜSSELDORF, Germany—UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin visited Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saint Petersburg on Wednesday after the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) confirmed that Russia will be allowed to host European Championship soccer games. Wada’s compliance review committee has proposed banning Russia from hosting “major events” as part of a package of sanctions for Russia over alleged tampering with doping records. Wada’s executive board will vote on the recommendation December 9. However, the four European Championship games and the 2021 Champions League final, also in Saint Petersburg, aren’t covered. “As regards UEFA, the Euros is not a multisport major event or a world championship but rather a regional/continental single-sport event,” Wada Spokesman James Fitzgerald told The Associated Press by e-mail. “So it is not affected by this recommendation.” Putin discussed European Championship hosting plans with Ceferin ahead of a Champions League game in the city. “We will do everything so as not to let you down and not to let down the fans, the players,” Putin said, according to a Kremlin transcript. UEFA said the meeting had been “planned for a long time” and was not brought about by the Wada recommendations. UEFA did not comment when asked whether Putin and Ceferin had discussed the doping issue. Ceferin complimented Russia for its hosting of last year’s World Cup, according to the Kremlin transcript. The European Championship mean Saint Petersburg will be hosting a major international event for the third time in four years after the 2017 Confederations Cup and 2018 World Cup. Incoming Wada President Witold Banka, who takes office January 1, agreed with Fitzgerald’s assessment that the Euros shouldn’t be part of any sanctions, and expressed shock at Russia’s behavior. “The report is truly frightening because, in fact, a manipulation has taken place, some of the data has been removed,” Banka told Polish radio station RMF FM. “Russia had a state system of supporting doping and manipulating data. Wada forensic experts have proven that, at the

time when Russia was offered a chance to cleanse the situation, a manipulation took place.” The European Championships are widely expected to be the second most-watched sporting event in the world next year after the Olympics in Tokyo, based on TV viewing. Research into the 2016 tournament found that the final attracted 284.4 million as an “average in-home global audience”—the industry-standard audit tracking viewers minute-by-minute—and that 600 million viewers watched at least some of Portugal’s 1-0 win over France. UEFA is not a signatory to the World Anti-Doping Code, but Europe’s soccer governing body is a subsidiary of Fifa, which has signed up to the code. UEFA also runs its own anti-doping program. Instead of the European Championship or Champions League, Russia could lose the right to host lower-profile events like the 2021 beach soccer World Cup, the 2022 wrestling world championships or the 2023 ice hockey world championships. Russia is accused of altering lab data to remove positive tests, at a time when the data was held by Russian law enforcement. Handing over the data was meant to clear up past cover-ups and smooth Russia’s way back into global sports after years doping scandals. The Wada committee has proposed a package of sanctions including a four-year ban on hosting major events in Russia and a similar four-year sanction on Russians competing in top events like the Olympics, though they could enter as neutrals. Putin’s Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday the recommendation are “unpleasant for us,” but it would wait for them to be confirmed by Wada. “Let’s remain sober-minded. This information causes concern, we regret that,” Peskov told reporters. “The Russian sports authorities have always been and will be fully open for cooperation with the international sports community and Wada. A detailed explanation has been given on the questions that have been asked.”

RUSSIAN President Vladimir Putin speaks to UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin (back to a camera) in Strelna in Saint Petersburg on Wednesday. AP

Sports BusinessMirror

| Friday, November 29, 2019 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

MESSI PLAYS 700TH MATCH, LIFTS BARCA VS. DORTMUND

ARCELONA, Spain—Lionel Messi celebrated his 700th appearance for Barcelona by putting on another dominant performance as the Spanish club won its Champions League group for a 13th consecutive season.

BARCELONA’S Antoine Griezmann celebrates with teammate Lionel Messi (top) after scoring his side’s third goal against Dortmund. AP

BROOKS

Eagles guard Brooks talks about anxiety

HILADELPHIA—Two-time Pro Bowl right guard Brandon Brooks said pressure of trying to live up to a new contract led to an anxiety attack that forced him out of the Philadelphia Eagles’ game last Sunday. Brooks has dealt with anxiety for several years but has started 50 straight games, including the playoffs. He recently signed a four-year, $54.2 million contract and it weighed on his mind. “When I got the new contract, I tried to talk myself down about it,” Brooks said Tuesday. “‘Hey look, you’re playing great, keep doing what you’re doing, no issues.’ I talked to my therapist about it, it started

Messi led Barcelona to a 3-1 victory against Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday by scoring one goal and setting up two more for strike partners Luis Suárez and Antoine Griezmann. The Argentina forward took full advantage of the time and space Dortmund’s slack defense gave him, repeatedly dribbling past their helpless defenders to thrill the home crowd. He took his club-record tally to 613 goals after he set up Suárez, who returned the assist to help Messi make it 2-0 before halftime. Griezmann’s goal from a pass by Messi put the game beyond doubt before substitute Jadon Sancho pulled one back for Dortmund. With 700 games for Barcelona, Messi trails only Xavi Hernández, who made 767 appearances for the Spanish club. “Seven hundred matches for Barcelona is not normal and neither is what [Messi] did on the pitch,” said Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Messi’s goal in the 33rd minute let him set another milestone by becoming the first player to score against 34 different opponents in the Champions League. He also went close to another goal when he curled a free kick off the crossbar. Messi has 114 career goals in the tournament. Barcelona has 11 points in Group F and secured the top spot with one game remaining. Dortmund has seven, but is behind Inter Milan on goal difference after the Italian team won 3-1 at Slavia Prague. Prague has two points. Only the top 2 teams advance. The thirdplace finisher goes to the Europa League. Ernesto Valverde’s team extended its competition record to 35 consecutive home matches without a defeat going back to 2013. Dortmund had outplayed Barcelona in Germany in their 0-0 draw in September.

On Wednesday, Lucien Favre’s Dortmund made a promising start when Ivan Rakitic, who was making his first start in two months for Barcelona, lost the ball and Barcelona needed Samuel Umtiti to clear a shot from Nico Schulz. But Barcelona had little trouble imposing its will after that. Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele had to be replaced with a right thigh injury in the 25th, adding to the former Dortmund player’s long list of injuries since joining the five-time European champions three seasons ago. After replacing Dembele, Griezmann started a move that led to Barcelona’s 29th-minute opener. Messi continued it when, instead of firing on goal as the defense expected, he slipped a pass through for the unmarked Suárez to drive between the legs of goalkeeper Roman Burki. Suárez became the playmaker after Dortmund defender Mats Hummels made a poor pass. Seconds later Suárez found Messi all alone to slot a left-footed shot into the far corner of the net and double the lead. “Today we take away the feeling that we have played a great match,” said Suárez, who said he and Messi combined well through years of experience. “I have said many times that given the way we get along together, and all the many matches we have played together over the years, I know when he starts one of his runs where I should be to receive the ball,” Suárez said. Favre sent on Sancho to try to spark his team’s attack. But he would only get his goal after Messi had helped Griezmann to put the result beyond doubt. Messi played a perfectly weighted pass to meet Griezmann in stride on a counterattack in the 67th. The France forward did the rest by firing a low shot past Burki. Sancho’s goal 10 minutes later was the one moment of class from Dortmund. The English forward cut back before firing into the top corner. He then forced Ter Stegen into stretching to redirect another of his shots just enough so it met the upright. “We were not good enough to beat Barcelona today. We only created three or four real chances,” Hummels said. “In top form, Messi is the best footballer I have ever seen. Period.” AP

setting in my head, ‘Hey, you’ve got to show everybody you’re worth the money,’ instead of, ‘Just go out there and play. No need to change what you’ve been doing or anything like that.’ That’s what kind of brought it on. That’s just the person I am. That’s my double-edged sword. It’s something that’s always driven me, to try and be the greatest at whatever I do.” Brooks played only 12 snaps in a 17-9 loss to Seattle and had to leave. He was vomiting all morning and between series during the game before he exited. “We’re people. We’re human beings. We go through the same things that everybody else goes through, everyday

issues that 40 million Americans go through,” Brooks said. “We’re no different and when we have issues, the only difference is that it’s front-page news. There are a lot of people who go through the same issues that we all go through. I just encourage athletes who do go through things, whether it’s something like a mental illness or really anything, to speak about it. You never know who you might help. You might be helping yourself.” Brooks said he’s thankful for support from coaches, teammates and fans. He plans to practice Wednesday and play Sunday at Miami. AP

Most High God

OST High God, Your love is everlasting and thanksgiving. With grateful hearts we pray: We thank You, God! You give us life and crown us with Your mercy and kindness. You bless us with faith and strengthen us in times of affliction and sorrow. You reveal Yourself to us through the love and care of others. On Thanksgiving Day, we offer You all the goodness we have in life. May You bless us with grateful and loving hearts and wisdom-full minds, and fill us with joyful song. Amen. GIVE US THIS DAY, SHARED BY LUISA LACSON, SF, MFC

Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • lifestylebusinessmirror@gmail.com

HELEN MIRREN

Life BusinessMirror

GAB FAB: A PLETHORA OF NEW DISCOVERIES D4

Friday, November 29, 2019 D1

Always wickedly good fun I

T is an intriguing look at the dark side of human nature but often with a glimmer of macabre humor,” says Director and Producer Bill Condon of his new film, The Good Liar, a gripping tale where so little is what it seems to be. “It’s a thriller with a Hitchcockian feel, weaving in elements of mystery, crime and a human drama. And at its heart are two beautifully complex characters played by two of the greatest actors of all time, at the top of their form, who can keep you guessing like a classic whodunit till the very end. It’s all wickedly fun.” Beyond that, and because he knows that people likely expect to have the rug pulled out from under them in a story like this, Condon adds, “What excites me most is how audiences will be able to piece together this intricate puzzle with all its twists and turns. It’s not just the twists themselves that might surprise you but the motives and the sheer depth of where they come from and why.” In the film, consummate con man Roy Courtnay has set his sights on his latest mark: the recently widowed Betty McLeish, worth millions. And Roy means to take it all. From their very first meeting, Roy begins plying Betty with his tried-and-true manipulations, and Betty, who seems quite taken with him, is soon going along for the ride. But this time, what should have been a simple swindle escalates into a cat-and-mouse game with the ultimate stakes—revealing more insidious deceptions that will take them both through a minefield of danger, intrigue and betrayal. Helen Mirren stars as Betty, who accepts that first tentative meeting between her character and Ian McKellen’s dapper Roy. “You want characters that have substance and complexity,” says Mirren. “Still, Betty is quite sweet. She doesn’t appear to be strong or tough at all. Like a lot of people, she feels there’s something missing in her life. She’s looking for companionship, someone to go out to dinner with or to the theater, and along comes this man, Roy, who’s funny and engaging, and could be exactly what she’s looking for.” In fact, it soon seems that these two have made a connection— two people in search of something special who have decided to take a chance on each other. Exploring not only the art of deception but that of relationships, The Good Liar offers the tacit, somewhat cynical acknowledgment that success at either so often depends upon those involved having the same skill set. Are suspense thrillers among your favorite kinds of film? Very much so. They are my go-to movie. I just love a good story, and I love a story where I get that “really didn’t see that coming” feeling. So often in movies, you can think, “Oh, he’s gonna die. Oh, they’re gonna get together.” Often you know within the first five frames what’s going to happen to a character. I love a movie that doesn’t let you do that, that takes you by surprise. If I’m scrolling through my movie channels and I see a good thriller, I’m always up for it. And then I like to watch them again and again, actually. Do you think it’s fair to say that everyone has secrets, no matter who they are? Yes. Absolutely, without doubt, because we all have a private life and a public life, don’t we? All of us. We have our own private, totally individual personal life, then we have our family life, and then we have our work life. And I think within your personal, private life inevitably you hold secrets. Maybe secrets that you’re not even aware that you’re holding, psychological secrets that are so buried you don’t really know they’re there, unless some occasion brings them out. We’re very, very, very complex creatures, aren’t we? And we’re all liars. I mean, I try not to consciously lie but, of course, I must tell a million white lies in a day—to myself as much as to other people. (Laughs) What did you like about your character? I liked her intelligence, her sweetness and kindness and sense of empathy, and her fundamental decency. But what I really loved was that she’s in the story. She’s not extraneous to the story. She’s not on the sidelines, watching the story unfold and evolve, as very often female characters

Continued on D4

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Friday, November 29, 2019

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Holiday splendor

Today’s Horoscope

CHINOISERIE-INSPIRED centerpiece with golden eventails, opulent feathers and a resplendent phoenix—.a golden bird cage with an interactive light show where one can see a phoenix take flight above their heads—and swing sets at the Skypark that glow with vivid colors and firefly-like lights. These are some of the highlights that make for a dazzling and festive holiday experience at SM Aura Premier until January 7, 2020. This year’s holiday theme takes inspiration from the phoenix, the legendary majestic bird that lives for several hundred years before it dies by bursting into flames. It is then reborn from the ashes to start a new long life. SM Aura brings the magic and radiance of the phoenix in “Flight of Lights,” which features two interactive light displays, in partnership with Huawei Philippines. The first is a golden bird cage that the public can enter and experience an interactive light show. As participants form their hands into a particular shape, a phoenix will emerge and take flight above their heads. Swing Sets at the Skypark, on the other hand, glow with vivid colors and moving lights that mimic fireflies. The launch of this year’s Yuletide celebration at SM Aura drew not a few prominent personalities eager to jumpstart the spirit of the season, which will also be marked by chorale performances by Everest Academy Singers from December 1 to 8. Kids can also visit Santa’s Workshop on December 6 and 7, and take part in Santa’s Meet and Greet on December 24 and 25.

By Eugenia Last

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Anna Faris, 43; Don Cheadle, 55; Andrew McCarthy, 57; Howie Mandel, 64. HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Quantify what’s important to you. Consider what you can walk away from and what you must keep. An overall cleansing will liberate you from being tied to the past, allowing you to take full advantage of what lies ahead. Make wise decisions based on what will serve you well and encourage you to follow your heart and your happiness. Your lucky numbers are 6, 13, 21, 25, 33, 38, 44.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Focus on the positive. Refuse to let someone agitate you or make you feel guilty or bad about the decisions you make. Take care of personal business, and spend time with someone you enjoy being around. Make a healthier lifestyle a priority. ««

b SM COO Steven Tan (third from right) with SM Aura Premier AVP for Operations Bernice Baculi (left), Shereen Sy (second from left), SM Supermalls VP for Business Development Gino Borromeo (second from right) and SVP for Marketing Jon Jon San Agustin (right) during the Christmas launch at SM Aura Pemier

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Personal change will turn out well if you push to become the best version of you. Don’t expect things to happen without having a little input. You have a host of opportunities at your fingertips. Recognize what’s available, and take action. «««««

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Look at the big picture, and size down. Be reasonable and responsible, and take on only what’s doable. You stand to make progress if you are steadfast in your pursuits and you don’t let anyone lead you astray. «««

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Stretch your mind, consider the possibilities and entertain people who have something to offer. You will excel. Stop doubting what you are capable of doing; start making a difference. An unusual partnership will turn out to be rewarding. «««

e SHOPPERS are greeted by Chinoiserie-inspired Christmas décors at the entrance of SM Aura Premier.

SM AVP for Marketing for Premier 4 Stephanie Henares (from left), Belo Group’s Cristalle Belo, top model and beauty columnist Rizza Mananquil-Trillo and TV host Phoem Baranda

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Socialize with people who are heading in a similar direction. Share ideas and discuss possibilities. A change that is stifling your creativity may seem daunting at first, but with a few adjustments, it can turn out to be quite favorable. «««

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Precision, detail and sticking to what’s doable will help you excel. Curb too much spending, indulgence or excess before it causes a problem. A social event or spending time with someone you love will brighten your day. «««««

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Don’t lose sight of your goals because someone pressures you to participate in something that doesn’t interest you. Make your position clear, and follow the path that brings you the most joy. Honesty is the best policy. ««

h MOVIE actress and commercial model Alice Dixon (right) with Katrina Ponce Enrile (left) and Tanya Gomez

INTERNATIONAL footballer Chris Greatwich, with wife Sammy and kids

FOOTBALL players Chris Greatwich, Simon Greatwich and Graham Caygill

A toast to Austrian-Filipino relations H. E. Bita Rasoulian, ambassador of the Republic of Austria to the Philippines, hosted a reception in celebration of the National Day and excellent Austrian-Filipino relations last October 23 at The Peninsula Manila. In addition to commemorating the adoption in 1955 of Austria’s constitutional law on permanent neutrality, the event also celebrated the inclusion of the Viennese Coffeehouse Culture and Austrian Pastry Culture in the Unesco List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The Austrian ambassador emphasized the Austrian-Philippine relations in her welcome speech, stating the strong person-toperson ties between the two nations. In partnership with BDO, Boston Homes, Artisan Wine Cellars and Thai Airways, the guests also had the chance to experience a taste of Austria through wine, food and music that filled the evening. The evening was a celebration of delight, national significance and continued support of Austria and committed cooperation with the Philippines.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): A break will open your mind, your emotions and possibilities you never knew existed. Taking a trip, having a conversation or being subject to something you’ve never experienced will change your perspective, as well as your direction. Romance is in the stars. ««««

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Take a deep breath, and make your move. It’s time to wheel and deal your way into the position you want to be personally or professionally. Stand tall, present what you have to offer and move forward. «««

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Make a strategic change to the way you live or the way you earn your living. How you handle such matters will enhance your life by obtaining freedom and peace of mind. Take a positive step into the future, and do what makes you happy. «««

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Say less and do more. Don’t be caught up in someone’s drama or project. Do whatever will benefit you. Taking the initiative to make personal improvements that will help you get ahead should be your priority. «««

l A LUCKY guest won one round-trip ticket to Vienna after taking the most authentic coffee house photo at the Mini Café Central photo booth.

H. E. Bita Rasoulian, ambassador of the Republic of Austria to the Philippines

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You’ve got more options than you realize. Don’t sell yourself short or sign up for something that will not allow you to reach your full potential. Follow your heart and intuition, and do something that makes you feel good about your life. «««« BIRTHDAY BABY: You are engaging, high-spirited and fair. You are progressive and intuitive.

‘flower people’ BY ROBERT WEMISCHNER The Universal Crossword/Edited by David Steinberg

ACROSS 1 Myanmar, once 6 Country that’s an anagram of Peru’s capital 10 History book chapters, perhaps 14 Castaway’s home 15 Yard sale warning 16 Colombian city 17 Actor Black, while sermonizing? 20 “Eureka!” 21 Small tastes 22 “Common Sense” pamphleteer 23 Cassette contents 24 Remarks an audience hears 25 Muckraker Riis’ way up? 30 New Orleans’s Smoothie King Center, e.g. 31 Not worth debating 32 ___-a-cake 35 Department with belts and ties 36 Weeps 38 Marie Curie, by birth 39 Softball implement 40 Indian flatbread 41 Finalize, as a deal

42 “The Talk” host Osbourne’s eponymous pink shade? 45 Reproductive cell 48 Moisturizer choice 49 Makes more concise, say 50 Leftover for the dog 52 Recede 55 Actress Tomlin, when visiting Napa? 58 Like a low voice 59 Neighbor of Cambodia 60 Mark over a certain “n” 61 Deodorant brand 62 The “U” of ICU 63 Bridge declaration DOWN 1 Tijuana locale, informally 2 Six-sided Western state 3 Almond ___ (candy) 4 Jan. holiday figure 5 Chinese e-commerce conglomerate 6 Barbie’s brand 7 Queens stadium name 8 Commits perjury 9 AOL, e.g.: Abbr.

0 Cream-filled pastry 1 11 Fleet 12 Flared dress style 13 Places on the Web 18 Chills in the air 19 Surprise result of a game 23 A lot 24 Commotions 25 Doorframe part 26 Kind of rug 27 Red coin? 28 Essential-acid link 29 “___, a deer, a female deer ...” 32 Describing a “D” grade 33 Furthermore 34 Many anew driver 36 Lawyer’s assignment 37 Actress Issa 38 Stage production 40 Untrue 41 Indian flatbread 42 Key in again 43 Black ___ cake 44 Croat, e.g. 45 Neuters

6 French farewell 4 47 Long-distance runner 50 Ollie’s partner 51 Golfer K.J. 52 Fitzgerald dubbed the First Lady of Song 53 They’re often raised in gardens 54 Tournament passes 56 Swine ___ (2009 pandemic) 57 Sass Solution to yesterday’s puzzle:

Relationships BusinessMirror

Friday, November 29, 2019

Event organizing 101 SOMETHING LIKE LIFE MA. STELLA F. ARNALDO @akosistellaBM

’VE organized parties, get-togethers, reunions with friends and family over the years. Modesty aside, I seem to have a particular talent for it. It’s difficult, but someone has to do it. When you want events to go your way and almost perfectly, you must take up the task instead of expecting others to do it. Before anything else, I first need to compute how much the entire party or event will cost. The largest share of event costs will likely be the food and beverages. (Unless you are hiring some entertainers, the likes of Bruno Mars!) So, we should first determine what kind of food to be served. Will it be cocktail or finger food? Is it a sit-down dinner? Will the event be held at noon? Should we have a buffet spread? Or go pot luck instead and “force” Inday Baby to bring her famous pancit molo? Should I make my lasagna? Do I have time? Who else can be counted on to bring food? As for the drinks and refreshments, the questions are similar. Do we/should we serve liquor? If yes, what kind/s? Which tito or kuya can be counted on to bring some bottles of single malt? How many cases of beer and soft drinks should we buy? Who can go on ice patrol? Are we going to do a theme party? What kind of decor should adorn the venue? Do we need balloons? Will there be some entertainment numbers? If so, what equipment do we need? How many mics? Will there be dancing after? Where do we hold the party? Which relative or friend can we cajole into hosting it at his or her home? Maybe do it at the club house? Or close a restaurant for the private party? With all these details to attend to, I can’t imagine anybody organizing this alone. Once the guest headcount goes over 30 pax, it simply isn’t tenable to manage an event by one’s lonesome. I will likely pull in help from friends and other people who I know can be relied on to deliver the goods, so to speak. At this point, there will be a lot of delegating involved. One person is assigned to handle the food, another the drinks, someone to coordinate the guests, another to collect the funds or resources needed to mount the event, and so forth and so on. And because in this country, people rarely follow the RSVP request on invitations, someone should also be assigned to follow-up on who and how many are coming to the party. This will help finalize the

PHOTO BY NONOY LACZA

amount of food and drinks to be served. Despite our seeming inability to RSVP, a trait that most of us Filipinos seem to share that helps us become better party hosts or organizers, is that we will pull out all the stops to ensure our guests are comfortable, entertained and are having fun. “Hospitality” or “hospitable” is our collective middle name. So when I got wind of complaints in the Philippines’s hosting of the Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) starting last weekend—such as snafus in collecting foreign athletes from the airport, messy hotel bookings, and the poor quality of food for some athletes—it really got my goat. The frustration was shared by others on social media. I admit that organizing a party for 30-100 people may be somewhat different from handling a sports event with more than 8,000 athletes. But the procedures and systems should be basically similar: Determine how many pax are coming (athletes, coaches, sports officials, performers, etc.); food and accommodations needed; venue/s of the separate events; what is the expected welcome program and other ceremonies; transportation and logistics; and from there, how much funds are

National Gifted Week 2019 launch takes flight HAS your child ever experienced the joy of running across an open field, the wind blowing on his face, to fly a kite? In celebration of National Gifted Week 2019, the Philippine Center for Gifted Education Inc. (PCGE) and the Kite Association of the Philippines, in partnership with Promil Four, children and their parents delighted in just that as they designed and let soar their respective colorful kites at the “Let Your Gift Soar” event, which was held at Luneta Park last November 24. Promil Four i-Shine Art Mentor and Arts Director of Masterpiece Movement Kara Escay facilitated the kite-making activity. PCGE and Promil Four will also be holding a two-day Giftedness Conference on November 29 and 30 at Hive Hotel, Quezon City, where various experts

from different fields will discuss the 8 different gifts: Linguistic, Musical, Bodily-Kinesthetic, LogicalMathematical, Naturalist, Interpersonal, Intrapersonal, and Spatial-Relation. Families are invited to participate in the conference to further understand a child’s strengths and how these can be discovered and nurtured as he grows. The panel of experts include Shaira Luna, Kara David, Roselle Ambubuyog, Dr. Carlos Arcilla, Ryan Tumbocon and Kim Atienza. “Through this event, we would like everyone to realize that giftedness is multifaceted. A kid who can play the piano is equally great as a kid who can paint, sing, or dance. What we want to do is for them to maximize these gifts,” said Dr. Leticia Peñano-Ho, president of PCGE. More information is available at bit.ly/37I9J6c.

Solane donates trash cans to Rosario LGU AS part of Solane LPG’s commitment to supporting communities, its containers—which were initially used for replacement of vapor cargo line— were converted to trash cans and duly donated to the Rosario local government unit, along with used paint cans. A total

of 30 fuel drums and 20 paint cans have been redesigned into trash receptacles that will benefit the people of Rosario. Enrique Estolas Jr. (left), the official representative of Solane LPG, officiated the turnover to Municipal Councilor Raul Flores (right).

needed to mount the affair. Decor and clothing should rate a far second to the more important aspects of organizing an event. Which is why many netizens are irate that some P56 million was spent for a cauldron that would be used only for the duration of the Games and close to P9,000 was spent for sports officials’ uniforms, when vehicles for use of the athletes were cramped or were inadequate, and food was wanting in some hotels where the different delegations were billeted. (We have yet to find out how much was spent for the Phisgoc officials’ wardrobe for the Games, which include two barong Tagalogs—one for daytime, and another for a gala event.) The SEA Games is a gigantic and expensive event. So huge that even a rich country like Brunei Darussalam decided to waive its right to host it. While the Philippines is certainly known for rolling out the red carpet for foreigners and going all out in hosting events of this nature, of which we had been successful (e.g, Apec Leaders Summit, World Economic Forum, Asean economic ministers meetings, ADB annual meeting, etc.), our hosting of

this year’s SEA Games left so much to be desired. It quickly unraveled, looking like a poorly organized high school intramurals. Which is why, mercifully, the Department of Tourism had to force itself on Phisgoc, and push them to accept the help the agency was offering. (I imagine DOT Secretary Berna Romulo Puyat pulling her hair out over reports of disorganized hotel check-ins, and inadequate food for the athletes. This just after her successful hosting of the Fil-Am chefs food tour.) From the hot mess we’ve come to know as #SEAGames2019fail, we learn the most important lessons: whether you are organizing a small dinner party or a huge sports event, assess your capability as a host, and know your limits. After determining these, don’t be afraid to ask for help. And when it is offered, accept. We hope these difficult issues are ironed out, for the sake of the country’s reputation as a fun destination. And that our athletes get the gold and ascend the podium to make us forget the bitterness over the Games. Well, until the Commission on Audit publishes its report on Phisgoc next year.

Avon Philippines opens breast care clinic in Davao CONTINUING its longtime crusade against breast cancer, Avon Philippines witnessed the unveiling of Southern Philippines Medical Center Surgical Oncology-Avon Breast Clinic on October 25 to assist and care for more women and patients in Davao City and the rest of Mindanao. Avon Philippines, one of the biggest corporate supporters of breast cancer awareness, has donated P2.2 million for the renovation of the clinic and the procurement of an additional ultrasound machine through its partner, Philippine Cancer Society. With this additional equipment, SPMC—the biggest hospital in Mindanao—will be able to service up to 50 patients a day for breast cancer ultrasound diagnostics. “The inauguration of SPMC Surgical Oncology-Avon Breast Clinic comes at such an opportune time as we observed the Breast Cancer Awareness Month last October. We consider our partnership with SPMC as another historic milestone in our crusade against breast cancer since this is our first clinic outside Metro Manila,” said Avon Philippines General Manager Razvan Diratian. “With the new facility, we can reach out to more Filipinas in Mindanao and make sure they lead healthy, happy lives now that SPMC can expand its breast care services and strengthen its collaborations with other local medical and civic organizations,” he added. “This project further reinforces Avon’s commitment in making sure that every woman knows about breast cancer and the importance of early detection in surviving this disease, while actively making significant contributions to this crusade.” “We have a lot of kababayan who have no access to the medical help they need to diagnose and treat breast cancer. Through the SPMC Surgical OncologyAvon Breast Clinic, the hospital and its doctors, as well as NGOs and

FROM left: DR. Mark Edward Anthony Maruya, chairman, Department of Surgery; Dr. Ricardo Audan, OIC, Chief of Clinics; Jasmine Mendiola, PR and Communications manager for Avon Philippines; Dr. Rachel Rosario, executive director of the Philippine Cancer Society; and Dr. Alex Tan, chairman, Surgical Oncology Section, Mindanao Surgical Oncology Fellowship Training Program, DRMC-SPMC

corporations, can reach out and offer help to women and other breast cancer patients,” added Dr. Rachel Rosario, executive director of Philippine Cancer Society (PCS). The inauguration of the new facility was attended by Avon Philippines Executive Team Member Jasmine Mendiola, Avon Philippines PR and communications manager, on behalf of Ces Francisco, Avon Philippines CSR Lead; and Rosario. Several officials and representatives from SPMC also graced the event: Dr. Mark Edward Anthony Maruya, chairman of the Department of Surgery; Dr. Alex Tan, chairman of the Surgical Oncology Section, Mindanao Surgical Oncology Fellowship Training Program; Dr. Borje, Dr. Fabiosa-Reyes, Dr. Acosta, Dr. Encarnacion-Rongo, Dr. Managaoil and Dr. RV Chiu, consultants of the Surgical Oncology Section; and Dr. Ricardo Audan, chief of Clinics who

represented Dr. Leopoldo J. Vega, SPMC’s medical chief. “On behalf of Dr. Vega, Dr. Maruya and Dr. Tan, and all of us here at SPMC, we thank Avon Philippines and Philippine Cancer Society for providing quality medical assistance to our breast cancer patients in Davao and other provinces. The renovated facility and the new ultrasound are a big help for SPMC to serve more women and save more lives,” said Dr. Audan in his message. “We’re very grateful to Avon and PCS for their unconditional support.” The launch of the new facility was held less than a year after Avon, PCS and SPMC signed a partnership on November 12, 2018. For the past 25 years, Avon has been at the forefront of the fight against breast cancer, organizing annual initiatives to raise awareness on the disease and the breast self-exam as the surest way to detect it early.

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BusinessMirror

D4 Friday, November 29, 2019

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A plethora of new discoveries GAB FAB JET VALLE

@jetvalle

OR a number of years now, ABS-CBN has dominated the weekend prime-time ratings with different crowd-pleasing talent competition shows. Your Moment is their latest attempt. It’s another celebrity-anchored and -judged program with a sprinkling of reality-show elements that ABS-CBN dreams will equal or even surpass the juggernaut ratings of their past efforts which include The Voice (and its various editions), Pinoy Big Brother, Idol Philippines, Your Face Sounds Familiar, World of Dance and a lot more. So what’s different this time? For one, it’s a twoin-one competition show. There are dance acts and then singing acts featured in one show. There’s no cattle call-type of auditions like in Idol, or competitors getting divvied up to judges to form their own teams like Pilipinas Got Talent or The Voice, and this is a good call as it won’t distract viewers much with bickering or their amusing but sometimes annoying banter. It’s just pure talent and that is what should matter. The show also boasts of a revolving immersive set where the live audience and the judges witness performance from the singing to the dancing stage and vice-versa. Each performance starts in black-andwhite, and bursts with light and color as it progresses, while the judges have to input their scores three times using an emotion-meter knob, ranging them from zero percent as the lowest to 100 percent, the highest. An emotion meter also appears onscreen reflecting the scores given by the judges every time a performance reaches the three time markers (20, 60, and 90 seconds), which indicate the time they can score. But Your Moment being an ABS-CBN show, they also want viewers to get to know the contestants—a formulaic move but at least it introduces the competitors in an intimate way. Personal backstories help and while that means we might hear more about a person’s heartfelt journey to get to where he or she is now, or their devotion to an ailing Kapamilya, viewers will also get a lot of stories that will inspire. Currently being aired now is Level 1 of the show, which is dubbed as “Your First Moment” wherein each episode features three dancing and singing acts. Standouts in singing so far are Lez2Men, and Juan Gapang who just dazzled. Showcasing their fabulous terpsichorean skills are Kenyo, Ruthless Comrades, Streecacy and the Fabulous Sisters, the latter I would

BILLY CRAWFORD (from left), Nadine Lustre, Boy Abunda and Luis Manzano of Your Moment on ABS-CBN.

like to audition for as they are indeed fabulous. Anyway, to be aired soon in the succeeding weeks are the next levels of the competition. These are Level 2: “Your Moment of Choice” (the highest ranking acts from Level 1 will get to pick their opponents in a three-way showdown), Level 3: “Your Moment of Power” (Level 2 winners will be given a chance to be coached by prime local and international mentors) and finally, Level 4: “Your Grand Moment” (the top 3 acts per category will compete in a series of rounds that will determine one grand winner in each category). Your Moment is hosted by Luis Manzano and Vhong Navarro with Boy Abunda, Nadine Lustre and Billy Crawford as judges. It is aired every Saturday and Sunday night. The grand prize is at P2,000,000.

awards by winning the MOR Philippines’s Choice award, the MYX Choice for Best Music Video plum, Star Music’s Choice for Best Produced Track and Listener’s Choice for Most Streamed Track. Daniel and Moira were also One Music PH’s Choice for Favorite Interpreters. Meanwhile, Davey Langit, winner of Himig Handog 2016 for his song “Dalawang Letra,” won again this year for his entry “Simula ng Dulo.” The singer-songwriter cowrote the song with his girlfriend Therese Marie Villarante and bagged P500,000 cash prize. From one past winner to another, “Please Lang,” a song by Aikee and interpreted by Alex Gonzaga, was named as the third Best Song, winning P200,000. Aikee also placed third in 2017’s Himig Handog for his song “Ekstensyon.” Another pair of young composers, Rex Torremoro and Elmar Jann Bolaño, won fourth Best Song for their entry “Nung Tayo Pa,” brought to life by Janella Salvador. They took home a cash prize worth P150,000. Seventeen-year-olds Jerome Arcangel and Cee Jay del Rosario took home P100,000 for bagging the fifth Best Song for their composition “Panandalian,” interpreted by TJ Monterde, about a romance cut short.

nnn THE unique and refreshing sound of Dan Tañedo’s “Mabagal” emerged as the Best Song in this year’s edition of ABS-CBN’S Himig Handog songwriting competition. The slow but soothing duet, interpreted by Daniel Padilla and Moira de la Torre, bested over 4,000 entries and took home the much-desired P1 million cash prize. “Mabagal” also swept the competition’s special

more so when they are together as the UH barkada. “Kumbinasyon ng maraming bagay kaya nagtatagal ang show—ang husay nila individually at ‘yung nadadala nilang kasiyahan at impormasyon. Magandang umpisahan ang umaga kasama sila. Individually, they are highly talented and great people, so ngayon 20 years, baka sa susunod pang 20 taon makakasiguro tayo na ang pinakamahusay na barkada sa umaga ay magpapatuloy,” he said. “[Sa] Unang Hirit, sa mga kasamahan nito, tayo ay nagpapasalamat sa patuloy nilang tiwala. Sila’y tumatayong ehemplo ng kaisahan at integridad at maraming bagay na kahanga-hanga. So maraming salamat sa kanila,” he added. This week until December 6, loyal followers will be treated with special episodes and surprises with former hosts visiting to join in the fun. The show will be giving away special prizes, such as home appliances, furniture, negosyo packages and gadgets. One lucky loyal viewer will even have a chance to win a brand-new house and lot. Unang Hirit, which airs weekdays beginning at 4:55 am on GMA, prides itself for having bagged the Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) Best Live Special Event Coverage Award for “Unang Hirit sa Vatican and Italy” and “Live sa Holy Land” hosted by Susan Enriquez and Rhea Santos, respectively. It was a rousing win for two consecutive years.

COINCIDING with the show’s anniversary is the contract renewal of its hosts last November 26

‘Unang Hirit’ celebrates 20 years of great mornings IT’S been 20 years of great mornings with Unang Hirit (UH) on GMA. Viewers will be in for a super fun week as the country’s longest-running morning show marks its 20th year on Philippine television. Since 1999, UH continues to be the Filipinos’ companion as they jump-start their day. They turn to UH for the latest weather updates, breaking news, and other special features to keep them informed and entertained. Over the years, the UH barkada has grown. Pioneer hosts Arnold Clavio, Suzi Entrata-Abrera, and Lhar Santiago are joined by Lyn Ching, Love Añover-Llanko, Susan Enriquez, Connie Sison, Ivan Mayrina, Mariz Umali and Luane Dy. The program also has its team of experts: Nathaniel “Mang Tani” Cruz, Atty. Gaby Concepcion and Mareng Winnie Monsod. Now the group is made extra colorful with the presence of regular UH katambays Boobay, Juancho Triviño and Joyce Pring, plus Mga Batang UH Yuan Francisco, Angelica Ulip and Leanne Bautista.

Coinciding with the show’s anniversary is the contract renewal of its hosts last November 26, attended by GMA Network Chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, President and COO Gilberto R. Duavit Jr., Senior Vice President for News and Public Affairs Marissa L. Flores, and First Vice President for Public Affairs Nessa Valdellon. Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications Angela Javier Cruz, Senior AVP for Public Affairs Arlene Carnay, and Program Managers Queenie Dimapawi and Mon Torres were also present. Gozon underscored the contribution of the longest-running morning show to Philippine TV. “Institusyon na sila sa Unang Hirit kaya tayo talaga ay nagagalak na hanggang ngayon at sa mga dadating pang taon ay mananatili sila [hosts] sa Unang Hirit,” he said, congratulating the program on this milestone. “Dalawampung taon na ang UH sa atin, I wish them another 20 successful years.” Meanwhile, Duavit gives credit to the UH hosts who are individually talented and

Dimples Romana levels up this holiday season THE cool breeze, the twinkling lights, the hustle and bustle of buying gifts. Yes, Christmas is here and the spirit of noche buena is on full blast with thoughts of creating the most perfect of memories, giving the perfect gift, and serving the best during this season of love and joy. For actress Dimples Romana, the new brand ambassador for CDO Premium Holiday Ham by CDO Foodsphere Inc., noche buena and ham come hand-in-hand when it comes to creating memories during Christmas festivities. “Hindi buo ang Christmas handa namin kapag wala ang CDO Premium Holiday Ham. ’Yung salu-salo na sama-sama kayo, magdarasal kayo, kakain kayo, parang parte na rin talaga ’to have ham there.’” It’s a tradition she grew up with and something that she carries on as a wife and mother of two. If you check her socialmedia posts, you will know that her whole family, the Romanas and the Ahmees, always celebrate together at home during noche buena. “We make it a point to be together no matter how

busy we are,” she shares. In fact, they make sure they have a theme for the year: “Minsan Pinoy, minsan Spanish, pero ang hindi nababago ay ’yung CDO Premium Holiday Ham. Favorite siya no matter what theme we do for Christmas.” More than just a celebrity endorser, Dimples is very choosy about what she gives her family. The delicious smoky flavor with pineapple sweetness of CDO Premium Holiday Ham fits her choice because it is made from tender pork pigue, the finest cut in making a ham, and has absolutely no extenders. Plus, it is guaranteed ASF-safe as it is pork that was carefully sourced from credible suppliers. As someone who knows her way around the kitchen, Dimples is excited about how CDO Premium Holiday Ham has leveled up the pineapple flavor by adding even more pineapple glaze. “You don’t need to bother boiling CDO Premium Holiday Ham in pineapple juice as it has already been cooked in the sweet indulgence of pineapple,” she shares. Recognized recently as one of the best by the Asian Academy

Creative Awards for her role as Daniela in Kadenang Ginto, what got Dimples most excited about shooting her CDO Premium Holiday Ham commercial was not the acting. “Siyempre, ang pinakaunang tinanong ko ay kung meron bang CDO Premium Holiday Ham sa TVC shoot? [Laughs] Naghanap talaga ako.” A certified foodie, Dimples confesses, “Hindi ko alam if it’s the Capampangan in me, but bukod sa masarap akong magluto, masarap din akong kumain. Iba kasi kapag ini-enjoy mo talaga. It shows how passionate you are about things—not only for food but for life. Alam mong ini-enjoy mo ang buhay mo at kumakain ka ng gusto mong kainin at nasi-share mo sa pamilya mo.” That’s Dimples Romana for you. A premier actress who only wants the best for her career and her family.

Always wickedly good fun Continued from D1 are—especially older female characters. She’s right in the center of the story. That was what really made me want to do the movie. In terms of Roy and Betty, it might be said that a new relationship is the perfect scenario to run a con if that’s someone’s purpose. You’re getting up close and personal quickly and you must take a great deal on trust. Do you agree? Yes, it is easy to abuse people’s trust. I think the default position for humans is to be trusting. I’m incredibly trusting. My husband gets very cross sometimes because I am very, very trusting. But it seems to me it’s a much more pleasurable way to live your life than being constantly suspicious of people and their motivations. Are they telling the truth? Should it really be costing that much money? Are they cheating me on this bill? You know, it’s exhausting. It’s much better just to be trusting and, yes, occasionally it comes back and bites you on the bum. But mostly, actually, people are very, very decent.... Until they become absolute monsters. Chemistry is vital for a movie like this. How would you describe your rapport with McKellen while making it? I think my rapport with Ian is built on all kinds of layers that can only exist if you’ve lived the lives that Ian and I have lived. We both started off as theater actors, classical theater, on a high level, and lived and worked in the theater for many years. Also we both had very substantial film careers, worked on television and film, and over a long period of time. We’ve actually only worked together once before, and that was on Broadway, but we’ve swum in the same pond, or the same sea, for a long time, and that history has made our relationship what it is. Could you cut loose and have a laugh together after an intense scene? Oh, I can always cut loose and have a laugh. I mean, there are certain scenes, certain movies, that you really don’t want to break out of psychologically. You have to keep yourself in that psychological world to a certain extent, but I don’t take it home with me. I hardly take it into the trailer with me! But some roles you have to just maintain your concentration, really. So to do that, I just keep myself quiet, you know, just go off in a corner, quietly study lines or something, or just keep quiet. Other roles you can swan around, chat and, laugh and joke, and have a good time, and then go back and do the scene. Did playing Betty require keeping yourself in her psychological world, or swanning around and having a good time? It depended which part of Betty I was playing. There were little bits of Betty where I had to maintain a mind-set of where I was. And other bits of Betty where it was, you know, better not to think too much. n Now showing in Philippine cinemas, The Good Liar is

DIMPLES ROMANA

distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Motoring BusinessMirror

Henry Ford Awards Best Motoring Section 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 2011 Hall of Fame

Editor: Tet Andolong

Friday, November 29, 2019 E1

VOLKSWAGEN LAMANDO 280 TSI DSG SEL

LUSCIOUS LAMANDO Straightforward elegance

Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino

THE Volkswagen’s design signature today is an example of how to quickly identify the brand’s absolute identity from its wide range of model lineup. While the cues are almost identical, there is still subtle differentiation for every model’s individuality. Like the stylish fascia bearing the brand’s signature slender halogen headlamps aligned to the grille with chrome accents and pronounced emblem in the middle. Just like its two other sedan siblings, the exterior frame has that definite three-box configuration only with more sharp profiles. These character lines all over created a sleeker aura to justify its more premium and sportier character. Similar to the Lavida, every top section of headlights and grille provide emphasis to the bonnet and the beltline. These include the wheel arcs design which complement the contours at the door bottom panels and bumpers. Overall, you get a chiseled body more into sporty rather than purely luxurious and boring.

O matter how dominating the likes of the crossovers and SUVs segments today, there will always be that special space for the once ever prime choice—the premium sedans. Demand may have since diminished, but the affinity attached to this vehicle platform is still very much alive. At least to those who have experienced the rewarding, premium and all-rounder character it offers. Despite the shifting vehicle segment preferences, European car manufacturers still offer various sedan lineups in different sizes. In the case of Volkswagen, the German automaker still provides an array of sedan models globally. Other car companies, meantime, still believe

that there are still customers out there who are still into sedans and there is no replacement for this ever-universal vehicle platform. Among the five new models, Volkswagen Philippines introduced last year the premium sedan Lamando 280 TSI DSG SEL.

THE front end bearing the Volkswagen’s design cues with sharper profiles

Continued on E4

Moto

Business

E2 Friday, November 29, 2019

The 2019 Tokyo Motor

Hino: Fut

Villar inaugurates main route to SEA Games opening venue

AYS before the grand kickoff of the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games at the Philippine Arena, Public Works Secretary Mark A. Villar inaugurated on November 26, the Ciudad de Victoria Interchange Overpass Bridge and Bypass Road in Bocaue, Bulacan, which will be used by the delegates as the main route going to the 55,000-seater indoor stadium. The Ciudad de Victoria Interchange Overpass Bridge and Bypass Road will also address the usual heavy traffic situation and queuing of vehicles entering the Bocaue interchange to reduce travel time to the town of Santa Maria, Bulacan, from the usual 50 minutes to 15 minutes via Ciudad de Victoria. Villar said that the construction of the bypass road and bridge which started January this year was fast-tracked in time for the opening ceremony of the 30th SEA Games on November 30, at the Philippine Arena, which is considered as one of the largest indoor mixed-use facilities in the world. The ceremonial opening of the road project was also attended by Senators Joel Villanueva

and Francis Tolentino; Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando; Representatives Apol Pancho, Miro Quimbo, Alfred Vargas, Feliciano Belmonte, Precious Hipolito Castelo and Mike Defensor; Atty. GP Santos of Maligaya Development Corp.; Public Works Assistant Secretary Eugenio Pipo Jr. and Region 3 Director Roseller Tolentino; Bocaue Mayor Joni Villanueva, Santa Maria Mayor Russel Pleyto, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian; DPWH Bulacan first District Engr. Henry Alcantara and Assitant District Engr. Aris Ramos; and Nlex officials. “Efficient roadways and increased road capacity will do a great deal in the success of the opening rites for the Philippines hosting of biennial multisport event involving participants from the 11 countries of Southeast Asia,“ Villar said. A game - changing projec t , C iudad de Vic toria Interchange Overpass Bridge and Bypass Road connec ting the Manila Nor th Road and Santa Maria-Bocaue Bypass Road

will ser ve as an alternate road to the heavily congested Governor For tunato Halili Road in Santa Maria, Bulacan. “With our anticipation on the volume of vehicles and traffic jams during the opening ceremony, the bypass road shall provide ease of transport to delegates who will be competing for the pride of their respective countries,” Villar added. Scope of works include concreting of four-lane road, construction of 80.80-linear meter overpass bridge crossing Nlex, and acceleration/deceleration lane with 42.80-linear meter concrete bridge and 757-linear meter road. The P260-million project was funded under the 2018 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and implemented by the DPWH Regional Office 3 under the leadership of Director Tolentino. Eventually, a 1.91-kilometer road from MacArthur Highway to Bocaue Municipal will be improved and a 1.3-km road from the Philippine Arena to the existing Patubig Road in Marilao, Bulacan, will be constructed.

Story & photos by Patrick P. Tulfo

he recently concluded 46th edition of the famed Tokyo Motor Show, which ran from October 23 to November 4 was everything as I expected it to be. But the motor show was just the icing on the cake. As the perennial event was the last part of a very educational trip. T hat gave us a deeper understand ing of what t he Hino brand is a l l about and why it ’s Japan’s No. 1 tr uc k manufact u re r for s e ve r a l y e a r s a nd counting. The trip was even more eventful as we learned that we were the first batch of journalists invited by Hino Japan to visit their office, as well as their plant, where we got a crashed course on everything about the company. The well-organized trip did not only focused on Hino or the Tokyo Motor Show but also gave firsttimers like me to be enchanted

Nissan conducts annual

road safety event

Is the Philippines ready to run motorcycle taxis safely? By George Royeca

Antonio Mauricio, Nissan Philippines assistant general manager for sales (from left); Celine Pialago, Metropolitan Metro Manila Development Authority assistant secretary and spokesman; Lindy Magnaye, road safety advocate; Mike Potenciano, veteran race and rally car driver, and road safety advocate; and Raymond Mariano, Nissan Philippines corporate sales manager

S part of the company’s ongoing commitment to create a zero fatality society, Nissan recently conducted a Road Safety Advocacy event for its corporate customers in the Philippines in Filinvest Tent, Alabang, Muntinlupa City. Through lectures and practical driving exercises, participants learned about proper vehicle handling, road courtesy, situational awareness, knowledge of local traffic rules, road signs and basic vehicle knowledge. Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Assistant Secretary and Spokesman Celine Pialago graced the event as the guest speaker. She delivered a short talk on government programs on traffic discipline and safety, and

engaged the participants in a question and answer session. The Road Safety Advocacy is part of the company’s vision of a society with virtually zero fatalities in avoidable traffic accidents. “Nissan’s zero fatality mind-set is an important part of our mission to enrich people’s lives and the way we do business with our customers. Road safety is a guiding principle in developing Nissan Intelligent Mobility features in our products, and it is also a way for us to engage communities through events like this,” said Atsushi Najima, president and management director for Nissan in the Philippines. Star ted in 2016, the Nissan’s Road Safet y Advoc ac y event is conduc ted annually with the suppor t of Nissan dealer s.

The Muhlach family loves the Toyota Innova

L ASSIFIED as a multißpurpose vehicle (MPV), the Innova is a hardworking car that has been well-loved since its first debut in 2005. From humble beginnings, the Innova has definitely come a long way in providing the best ownership and driving experience. The spacious interior comfortably accommodates up to seven, providing convenience with ample leg room in every row. It’s never a boring trip with the Innova’s entertainment system. Share playlists, take photos, and never run out of power with USB outlets on the second row (V variant only). Love the journey even more when you can do anything with ease on the seat back trays (V & G variants only) from playing on your tablet, working on your laptop,

or simply holding your cup of coffee. Of course, safety is never compromised as the Innova has seven air bags, vehicle stability control, traction control, and hill start assist (V variant only). Reliable from quick errands to long road trips, who better to test the vehicle than the adventurous Muhlach family? They’re definitely loving every moment with their new Innova. Check out what they have to say about the driving experience: http://bit.ly/InnovaTVC. For more information on the Toyota Innova, visit www.toyota.com.ph or check out Toyota’s of ficial social-media pages at ToyotaMotorPhilippines (Facebook and Instagram), and @ToyotaMotorPH ( Twit ter).

Photo by Gadget Pilipinas

HESE days, it feels like we have hit critical mass. Even I’m surprised at how frequently I see Angkas bikers on the road riding in their black and blue uniforms. Depending on where you are, sometimes half of the motorcycles in a given intersection are all Angkas. For better or worse, we’ve made motorcycles much more accessible and visible to the general public. What used to be a mode of transport used by those who had fewer means is now used by everyone from college students to millennial yuppies to even politicians and celebrities who need to beat the traffic. With that widespread adoption come a new set of challenges. Have our standards for motorcycle safety, specifically for taxi use, caught up? Let me speak from our experience in Angkas. We used to think background checks and training were ever y thing. The idea was simple. Find capable motorc ycle drivers with clean backgrounds, give them qualit y training they never had access to, and you can more or less ensure safe motorc ycle taxis. This wasn’t from naivety or glibness— we know for a fact that most accidents are due to driver error, and being ver y stric t with our process (only about 30 percent of Angkas applicants pass) was a good way to address a big chunk of the problem. It’s hard to confirm this hypothesis for a fac t given the complexity of road safet y, but based on our accident rate of 0.003 percent (recently as low as 0.002 percent), we are of f to a good star t. But accidents still happen,

and eliminating the long tail of accidents (in our case the last 0.002 percent to 0.003 percent of rides) can of ten require the largest ef for t. The accident rate gives us a small sample size to work with and an even smaller sample size if you further categorize them into different subtypes. Moreover, some instances are factors that is outside of our immediate control: SUVs driving recklessly, truck drivers falling asleep, a pothole hidden by a puddle, a jeepney driver braking suddenly or a passenger jaywalking across a major road. To a certain extent, these are things that no matter how well we train our bikers, it will continue to affect the overall safety of motorcycle taxis. There’s only so much you can do to prevent

by the beauty of Tokyo, better appreciation of Japanese cuisine and a lot of things that makes one crave for more, but that is a different story altogether. Hino, like I said earlier, extended an invitation to several motoring journalists to cover the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show which had a theme “Open Future,” and since it was on a short notice, we found out that the motor show coverage played just a sma l l part of the activities that were prepared for us. After getting settled down in the cozy JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom in downtown

reckless driving or to ensure that all roads are of top-notch quality. These require major structural and cultural changes. What does this mean for motorcycle taxis? From a public policy perspective, the government is on the right track with programs like the LTO’s more stringent driver licensing requirements that acknowledges overall road safety as something that cannot be pinned down to just one type of road user (in this case, motorcycle drivers). We are also seeing various agencies reconsider road infrastructure like bike and motorcycle lanes. While these have had varying success rates, it’s heartening to know that the government is taking steps to address these problems. As for the regulatory bodies, there are several processes that need to be instituted in order to properly track operators’ compliance with set regulations. For fourwheel app providers, car owners would need to secure a franchise from the LTFRB before being accredited by an operator. It would have to be the reverse for motor-

The Hino headquarters at Hino-shi City

cycle taxis as they need to undergo safety training and pass a written and practical exam before being allowed on the platform. In either case, the manpower required to assess and evaluate potentially millions of bikers nationwide would need to be considered. There is also the issue of appbased and non app-based motorcycle taxis. Amending the law would simply allow all motorcycles to be used for hire, regardless whether they are accredited in an app. For non app-based motorcycle taxis, who provides their training and safety monitoring? From a private company perspective like that of Angkas, no matter how stringent our self-imposed regulations are, we will still have a certain amount of accidents. While 99.998 percent of rides are safe, we still need to ensure the long tail is properly managed, which means minimized damage when something does happen, and quick relief to minimize pain and stress. In the last five months of the pilot alone, we have taken strides in upgrading our internal Emergency Response Team to ensure

oring

sMirror

Friday, November 29, 2019

r Show

ture of delivery The view from above the assembly line at the Hino Koga Plant

rapid response times and quality, cost-efficient care. Our ERT team is staffed with full-time employees and augmented by a network of medically trained biker-volunteers to ensure we can reach any reported incident in Metro Manila within about 30 minutes. We have an in-house medical director (who specializes in emergency and trauma) and a network of on-call doctors specializing in surgery, orthopedics and others across several hospitals around the Metro. This network of medical professionals and hospitals ensure that all Angkas bikers and passengers, if involved in an accident, get rapid and quality care under minimal duress. Even if someone is sent to a hospital outside this immediate network, the doctors ensure we have a consultant one call away ensuring that Angkas patients are receiving the most appropriate medical attention. On top of this, we have worked hard to ensure that we have sufficient working capital to ensure all bills are paid for. While all our bookings include medical accident insurance, constraints prevent us from processing claims immediately, especially when urgent medical procedures are involved. This means Angkas always pays upfront first to ensure patients are treated immediately and then takes on the risk of being unable to claim against insurance later on. This isn’t ideal for our bottom line, but it is what we have to do in pursuit of a better public service. Are we ready to run motorcycle taxis safely in the Philippines? It’s not an easy question to answer, but given what we’ve achieved in the last six months, we are making great progress. As long as all parties involved hold themselves up to high standards and the ideal of continuous improvement, we should be able to provide more mobility without compromising safety.

The first Hino truck manufactured way back in 1918.

This cute minibus will be Hino’s entry in the PUV modernization program of the government.

The Hino500 Series, the company’s entry to the grueling Paris Dakar Rally

The futuristic Hino “FlatFormer” which is an electric platform that will have a wide array of body configurations

Shinjuku on the first day then, it was work for the next two days.

Tour of the Hino headquarters and manufacturing plant

It was a long trip to the trucks company’s headquarters located in Hino-shi City, which is more than an hour drive from our hotel. The headquarters was very impressive to say the least. There is a Zen-like garden at the rear of the building, complete with mini waterfall and a pond full of koi fish. We were also shown a minibus which, according to local Hino officials, who were with us on the trip, will be the company’s entry in the PUV modernization program of the government. Hopefully we will also get the same unit on display or with only minimal changes. The culmination of that trip was the seminar conducted by Hino officials who shared with us the company’s current and future direction. Hino’s current generation of trucks and buses in Japan

boasts of features that have yet to reach our shores. The plethora of high technology features include sensors and cameras that monitors the environment around the vehicle helping to avoid accidents from happening in the first place. Meanwhile, sensors on the engine and all the mechanical parts of the vehicle will continuously send information on the health of the vehicle. This feature avoids unexpected breakdowns as the owner will be informed if there is a need to replace a part before it happens. But what’s impressive is that all the above features on each truck and bus are handled individually by a central system run by Hino, which charges a minimal service fee. Most unfortunate, though, is there are no words from the company if these impressive features will be available in the Philippines as every market are tailored according to their market needs.

Visit to the Koga Plant

After that fruitful visit and a quick lunch on a nearby hotel, we then went to the company’s latest manufacturing plant located in Koga. The Koga Plant has an expansive area of 850,000 meters or 85 hectares. Most of it are still open space which boasts of endemic flora and fauna being nurtured by the company as part of their corporate social responsibility. The Koga Plant churns out 199 units daily of heavy- and mediumduty trucks, as well as KD sets. It employs 2,500 personnel, now on two shifts. Most of the trucks are exported to other countries including ours that come from Koga. Here we witnessed how a Hino truck is assembled from the start to finish. The whole system was very systematic and, most of the time, automated. According to plant managers, plans are already in the pipeline that will make some of dangerous task for human employees to be a fully automated

affair like welding, for example. When asked about if the whole procedure might be fully automated soon, Hino executives said that the human component on the whole process will not be removed and will continue to play a vital role in the company’s production line in the years to come.

Glimpse of the past and future

The activities prepared on the following day are best summed up as the “Glimpse of the Past and the Future.” The past is the visit to the Hino Auto Plaza, which houses the museum located in Minamino, Hachioji City, also in Tokyo. The museum displays the first Hino truck manufactured way back in 1918. It also houses other interesting finds such as cars which Hino manufactured in its early years before they shifted their focus— on trucks alone. And surprisingly, Hino also tried their hands on plane production at one point in the past. This museum is often visited by locals including children as part of their education. The culmination of invitation was the visit to the Tokyo Motor Show wherein we saw the futuristic “FlatFormer platform,” this concept aims to change mobility

forever. It was designed for greater efficiency in the mobility of people and goods, but aside from being environment friendly as it features a fully electric motors run by batteries. The possibilities offered by the platform are almost endless as shown by a short anime story on the big screen. The FlatFormer can be moving business bus, a driverless bus and even an automated delivery truck complete with an automated drone truly futuristic. A l so, on d i s pl ay w a s t he Hino500 Series Rally Truck which is the official entry of the company to the grueling Paris Dakar Rally series. Hino is the first Japanese truck manufacturer to enter the popular rally event and has finished all the 28 races it started. But it was in 1997 that Hino astonished the world when it took the one, two and three spots thereby sweeping the overall truck category. The Hino500 Series is powered by an inline six-cylinder, fourcycle diesel engine that produces an astonishing 670 hp and 236 kgm/1200 rpm. Aside from these two crowd drawers, Hino also displayed the good-looking Profia truck that is powered by a hybrid engine.

Motoring BusinessMirror

E4 Friday, November 29, 2019

Bong dreamed of stitching all of us families–Vivienne

ROM speeches, let’s shift to eulogies. Let me start with Vivienne Tan’s tribute to her departed brother, Bong. Bong, whose passion for basketball was second only to his love for cars, was a dear friend of mine for many years. Vivienne’s piece: “I was born after Ahia. There were seven of us. Bong was the fifth and only son. I came two years after him. As you can see, he has always been surrounded by girls since he was young. “Ahia Bong was a beautiful person both inside and out. I remembered the many valued and meaningful roles that Bong has played throughout our lives together. “Given that we were the closest in age, I ended up being his default playmate and partner in crime. All our horseplay were definitely not for a girl or the faint of heart for I was his sparring mate in kung fu and karate. I was not much of a challenge but I guess the reason he loves sparring with

me was that I never gave up. I’m sure he won’t forget the times nabatukan siya when he was in his most vulnerable position— watching basketball. “Ahia was both brains and brawn. We would always play intellectual games like chess, Chinese checkers and Master Mind since we were kids. I had always hoped those brain exercises rubbed off on me somewhat. “We got separated in high school but reunited in college. We were together living in the States where we both studied. Being my Ahia, I got demoted from sparring mate to the roles of cook, maid and labandera. I remember how Bong would rush me to iron

BONG TAN

his clothes before every date. In time, I had to pass on this role to his loving wife, Julie. Julie is the best! “After graduation, Ahia Bong returned to work for the family business while I chose to strike out on my own and extend my stay in the US. Ahia Bong was a comfort for our mom and dad. Knowing Ahia was there made me feel that it was OK for me to extend my stay in the US after college. “When I returned to the Philippines, I realized the challenges he was facing. Bong wanted nothing else but to prove himself to my father but as the heir apparent, not everyone wanted him to succeed. That’s the sad fact. “Still, Bong never gave up and in his own way tried to do his best despite the forces that waged war against him. Despite all attempts of many parties to derail Bong, he never kept a grudge against these people. He was never a vindictive person. That’s the kind of heart Bong had. “When I joined the family business, I saw how Ahia wanted noth-

ing else but to continue the legacy of our father. And in the past few years, all of us saw how he tried hard to make things work for everybody. “Since college, Bong wanted that everything be maayos despite our peculiar family situation. Very few of you know but my brother went to Baclaran every week to pray. I know having peace and harmony for our families were in his prayers “He passed away at his peak working on making things maayos within our families. His ways might not have always been perfect, but his intentions were always pure. I now pray and ask that may his death not be in vain. His most fervent wish was for peace and harmony for all of us family members. As rumors go around these days about how things will be divided, my appeal to all sides who believe in our father’s legacy is for us to see and do things differently. This is not a time to start planning on whose side you will be, but on helping our families unite once and for all. “Someone said, ‘What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.’ “Bong dreamed of stitching all of us families together in one united, peaceful whole. “I strongly believe his dream of peace and harmony is a good dream for all of us to share. Let’s not let his dream die with him. Together, let’s honor him by taking his dream and turning it into a reality. “Ahia, I know you are watching all of us and I promise you that we will not give up in continuing your

efforts. Rest easy Ahia. Till we meet again. “You always told me I got this. Now that you are leaving us behind, I want you to be at peace. Do not worry about Mom and Dad, Julie and the kids and all your loved ones. We got this. I love you and miss you so very, very much.” nnn LIKEWISE, touching was the eulogy of Cielo Villaluna, the famous face of PAL’s public relations. Here: “Bong was a sweet son who walked and sat beside Mrs. Tan during milestone PAL events. He was a proud father, and in last year’s special lifestyle feature with the Philstar, he talked about his children and how academically outstanding they were. He respected his father, Chairman Lucio Tan, and talked about how he was sent to China in high school and lived the spartan life. “He loved playing basketball with his Tanduay Distillers employees. He would nudge them at the start of the workday and say “Laro tayo mamaya...” He would tell his staff to play basketball sans inhibition as his staff would, at times, temper their moves while playing with him. “In business meetings, Bong stood out literally because he wore bright, if not pastel, colors, minus socks. “In over two decades of his life, he served in the LT Group as president of PAL Holdings; vice chairman of Philippine Airlines; president of Tanduay Distillers Inc. and Eton Properties Philippines Inc.; director/executive vice president of Fortune Tobacco Corp.; and director of Alliedbankers Insurance

Corp., Philippine Airlines Inc., Philippine National Bank, LT Group Inc. of MacroAsia Corp., Victorias Milling Co. Inc., PMFTC Inc., Lucky Travel Corp., Air Philippines Corp., Absolut Distillers Inc., Asia Brewery Inc., Foremost Farms Inc., Himmel Industries Inc., Progressive Farms Inc., The Charter House Inc., Grandspan Development Corp. and Shareholdings Inc. “But when asked to describe himself, he said, ‘lover of life.’ He loved life, a good bottle of red wine, and a cup of tea to cap his day. He loved helping PAL choose the best wines for our flights. “When I visited Cardinal Santos last night and waited for my turn to catch a glimpse of you Bong, I had to remind myself that this is real. Amid the sadness unraveling, my spirits perked up each time a group of supporters, basketball teammates, high-school friends showed up in droves. “Most important, I witnessed your family’s love for you. “I pray for the strength of all who were caught by surprise and are now mourning your death. Oh my, you’re very much alive—in our hearts and minds. Sorry, it hasn’t sunk in, yet. “As I bid you goodbye with great difficulty, I know you’re in an eternally happy place from where you’re looking at us with your signature smile. “No goodbyes Bong...never. Only...see you around.”

PEE STOP My own brother, Kuya

Vicente, had passed on just days before Bong Tan died. May Dear God give their souls eternal peace.

GENTLE ON THE PAINT WITH A GLOSSY SHINE

ONAX Gloss Shampoo Concentrate is a phosphate-free car wash that cleans the toughest road grime and dirt from your vehicle. Specially developed with anionic surfactants, Sonax Gloss Shampoo Concentrate lathers into rich foam that traps dirt and rinses clean, giving your ve-

hicle a radiant, spotless, streakfree shine. Sonax Gloss Shampoo Concentrate is safe for all paint finishes and will not strip away the wax already applied. The nonalkaline, non-acidic formula gently removes dirt, grime and oil without diminishing the existing paint protection. The special anionic sur-

factants within, simultaneously adhere and distribute dirt particles and act as emulsifiers absorbing and dissolving oil droplets. Lubricating oils protect paint and glass from abrasion as dirt rolls off in the rinse water. Sonax Gloss Shampoo Concentrate produces rich foam with slip-

pery oils that make this shampoo a pleasure to use. The ample lubrication in the formula is apparent by the way water sheets off the paint! For the best results, rinse your wash mitt or sponge often to release any dirt. Wash from the top down and rinse frequently. Sonax Gloss Shampoo Concentrate rinses

clean and leaves minimal water spots. Dry with a Sonax Microfiber Drying Towel to remove any remaining moisture. The clean finish will have an enhanced shine and slickness. Sonax Gloss Shampoo Concentrate produces a brilliant, clean shine every time!

VOLKSWAGEN LAMANDO 280 TSI DSG SEL

LUSCIOUS LAMANDO THUMBS UP

n Minimalist yet imposing exterior design n Responsive engine n Seamless shifting DSG gearbox n Excellent handling and control n Quiet and smooth ride

THUMBS DOWN

MONOCHROMATIC, sporty and well-laid out dashboard Continued from E1

Still monochromatic but livelier

HAVING that known monochromatic themed interior from most Volkswagen vehicles, touches of sporty trims and materials brought more life and convenience. It already had us at the straightforward layout yet sporty and sophisticated at the same time. The D-shaped chunky helm with piano-black inserts and integrated controls are still present. Seats are not only wrapped with leather material but also well-padded with numerous sections. But what we like is the bigger and better touch-operated audio system equipped with phone connectivity and other functions. One of its useful features is its ability to control the surround sound distribution through your fingertip. That, along with the eight-way speaker system, everything inside was like listening to studio version music files.

TSI power and efficiency

SIMILAR to the Lavida, this car is also powered by the same 1.4-liter four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. So, we knew exactly where that fun in driving was coming from. The only difference was the Lamando’s mill is tuned to have a higher output. No wonder that despite the bigger frame, the power delivery was still there, albeit more linear. What’s impressive about this TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) motors is that it allows you to enjoy the best of both

THE responsive 1.4-liter Turbo Fuel-injection engine with Bluemotion Technology

worlds. That’s power and fuel efficiency combined. Another is the outstanding torque delivery starting at a low engine rpm range just like diesel mills. But what aided in the smooth, linear and unrelenting output is the mated seven-speed DSG transmission.

Super comfy, downright nimble and safer to drive

JUST like its siblings, the Santana and the Lavida, we can all agree that one of the Lamando’s highpoints is how it behaves on the road. As expected, the noise, vibration and harshness suppression were simply superb. The midsize-like ride was present throughout our test period. From how the damping system reacted to every road imperfection, the fast-cooling dual-zone climatronic air conditioning system, plus the minimal rebounds, everything was like how riding in a premium vehicle should be. For its size, the car was still downright nimble on curves, even on higher speeds. The steering provided soft handling yet with good response on turns—such a good performer during drives through zigzags. As for the safety features, it has airbags for driver, front and rear passengers, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ISOFIX for child seats, and immobilizer, among others. Moreover, this version of Lamando is also equipped with electronic parking brake, cruise control, tire pressure monitor, electronic stabilisation program (ESP), and hill hold control functions.

n Similar steering wheel design with

lower models n Single 12-volt socket for gadget charging

SPECIFICATIONS n Vehicle Volkswagen Lamando 280 TSI

DSG SEL n Type Compact sedan n Engine 1.4-liter, inline four-cylinder, Turbocharged Stratified Injected with Bluemotion Technology, petrol fed n Maximum power 148hp at 5,000rpm n Maximum torque 250N-m at 1,750- 3,500rpm n Transmission Seven-speed DSG transmission

DIMENSIONS n Length

4,598 mm

n Width 1,826 mm n Height

1,425 mm 2,656 mm n Tire size 225/50 R17 n Price as tested P1.703 million n Wheelbase