BusinessMirror October 06, 2023

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

GIVEN the latest inflation print and risks that could further lead to price spikes for the country's food staple, there may be room to revisit its proposal to reduce rice tariffs, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda).

On Thursday, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that inflation rose to 6.1 percent in September on the back of a 17.9-percent increase in rice prices. While the average headline inflation rate was a four-month high, the spike in rice prices was the highest in 14 years. (Full story here: https://businessmirror.com.ph/2023/10/05/inflationposts-4-month-high-in-september/).

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said in a statement that if global rice prices keep rising, the government must respond to stabilize commodity prices nationwide.

As the country’s food staple, rice is heavily weighted in the country’s Consumer Price Index (CPI).

“Should the global price of rice continue to rise due to the impacts of El Niño and rice export bans among key rice-exporting countries, resulting in a need for a more robust response to stabilize local prices, the proposal to temporarily lower tariffs on rice, regardless of origin, may be revisited,” Neda said in a statement Thursday.

At the last Inter-Agency Committee on Inflation and Market Outlook (IAC-IMO) meeting on October 3, the committee recommended extending the lower Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rate on rice under Executive Order (EO) No. 10.

“To address the increasing price of rice and ensure enough supply through timely and adequate importation, the IAC-IMO recommends extending the lower MFN tariff rate on rice until December 2024, but subject to review in July 2024,” Balisacan said.

“This policy response must be complemented by efforts to improve the predictability and transparency of issuing the San -

itary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance for rice and all commodities,” he added.

However, Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) Senior Research Fellow Roehlano Briones said there may not be enough basis for reduced tariffs at this time given that rice prices are already on their way down due to the harvest season.

“Tariff reductions can increase consumption but can negatively reduce production unless an effective and practical government production strategy is established,” Ateneo de Manila University economist Leonardo Lanzona told BusinessMirror

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

THE retail price of rice could decline by as much as P3 per kilogram in the coming months as the country anticipates a “bumper” harvest, with pundits projecting a record-high grain output this year, an industry group said.

Orly Manuntag, cofounder of Philippine Rice Industry Stakeholders Movement, said they expect retail prices of rice to fall by P2 to P3 per kilogram in the last quarter of the year as the country starts its main harvest of palay.

The agriculture department is projecting a record-high milled rice output of 13.11 million metric tons (MMT) this year, surpassing the 2021 record of 13.054 MMT. In the second semester alone, the department projects that milled rice production would hit 7.2 MMT.

Bank of the Philippine Islands

(BPI) Chief Economist Emilio S. Neri said he expects a 25-basispoint (bps) increase in the Target Reverse Repurchase (RRP) Rate which was maintained at 6.25 percent last September.

Neri also noted that a rate hike is imminent given the still high core inflation rate. Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data showed that core inflation slowed 5.9 percent in September from the 6.1 percent in August, but remained higher than the 5 percent recorded in September last year.

“A 25-bps hike in November is now more likely after the surprise print as risks of spillover to other goods and services have intensified,” Neri told BusinessMirror “Bumabagal pagbaba ng core [but it] remains way above [the] 4-percent target for too long already.”

In a statement, BPI said core inflation could increase again and second-round effects may form again. This is in view of the P1

VG Cabuag

home to support their loved ones.

Results show 73 percent of respondents in the United States, 70 percent in the United Kingdom and 78 percent in

Australia reported an increase in the daily cost of living. Some 81 percent of them said they felt utility costs increased in recent months.

Housing costs continue to be impacted with 72 percent of respondents reporting an upswing in mortgage and rent payments, while 46 percent of respondents noted an increase in education and 74 percent in transportation.

“As international money senders report rising living costs both for themselves and their families, they are increasingly making the tough decision between supporting themselves and supporting their loved ones

back home. Receivers rely on the hard-earned money delivered by remitters for vital things like day-to-day expenses [such as food, transportation and clothing], healthcare and educational support,” said Mark Lenhard, CEO of Zepz, the group powering global remittance brands WorldRemit and Sendwave.

“Our data shows that as the cost of living crisis looms, many are making sacrifices in order to continue to provide that support to billions across the globe,” he said.

This year’s cost of living index indicates remittances sent

WITH the increase in commodity prices reaching the high end of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) inflation expectations for September, analysts are now more certain that the Monetary Board will decide to raise key policy rates by November.

Phl In MEn’S baSKEtball FInal the Philippines—thanks to justin brownlee getting unstoppable all night long—edged china, 77-76, on Wednesday to advance to the men’s 5x5 basketball gold-medal play in hangzhou. gilas Pilipinas faces jordan in the final on Friday. NONIE REYES

In the disputed South china Sea on august 22, 2023, a Philippine supply boat skillfully navigates around chinese coast guard ships attempting to obstruct its path near Second thomas Shoal, locally known as ay ungin Shoal. On Wednesday, October 4, 2023, two Philippine supply boats successfully breached a chinese coast guard blockade in a recurring confrontation near the disputed shoal. this area has been guarded for years by a small contingent of Filipino marines stationed aboard the long-marooned but still actively commissioned warship, the brP Sierra Madre. there are concerns that this situation could escalate into a larger security crisis, potentially involving the United States. AP/A AR ON FAVI l A

’23 OFW deployment seen to breach 2-M mark–DMW

By Samuel P. Medenilla sam_medenilla

FOLLOWING a resurgence in the demand for overseas Filipino workers worldwide, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said deployment figures are on track to once again breach the 2-million mark.

But, while deployment figures continue to pick up, there have been changes in the professions which are in demand in the aftermath of the pandemic.

Based on DMW's preliminary data, 1.29 million overseas Filipino workers (OFW) were deployed during the first semester of the year.

This was 37.46 percent higher compared to 939,466 OFWs deployed in the same period last year.

Support for farmers

Neda , meanwhile, said other efforts include help for the country’s farmers. Foremost is the National Food a u thority (NFa ) C ouncil’s decision to set a higher buying price for palay or unhusked rice.

The NFa Council raised the buying price of dry palay to P23 from P19 and the buying price of wet palay to P19 from P16. Neda said this increase aims to give Filipino farmers a higher income. The d e partment of Social Welfare and d e -

Total deployment last year reached 2,057,040.

The bulk or 966,479 of those deployed this year were land-based, while the remaining 324,941 were sea-based.

“I estimate this will reach prepandemic levels because in the first semester [land-based deployment] reached 966.479. If you reach 2 million [deployed] that is already prepandemic levels,” DMW Officer-incharge Hans J. Cacdac said partly in Filipino during his speech before the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Safe Migration last Thursday.

Top destinations

T H E t op destination countries for OFWs in the first semester are still the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (208,373), United Arab

v elopment ( d SW d) w ill also provide a P10,000 cash subsidy to 78,000 farmers listed in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

Neda said rice farmers are set to receive P5,000 as financial assistance to help sustain their productivity amid rising cost of production.

Rice price cap

Lo C a L e conomists believe the price cap imposed by the President at the start of September did not have any impact on rice prices.

The President’s e xecutive o r der 39 set a price ceiling for regular-milled rice (RMR) at P41 per kilo and well-milled rice (WMR) at P45 per kilo, which became effective in September 5.

o n e of these economists, Lanzona, told BusinessMirror such a policy was merely a waste of

Emirates (137,919), Singapore (101,218), Hong Kong (91,999), Qatar (70,685), Kuwait (43,332), Taiwan (35,232) and Japan (24,034).

While Kuwait is still on the list, the number of deployed OFWs to that Middle East country dropped by 9.86 percent this year from 48,073 in the same period in 2022.

This, after Kuwait suspended visa processing for Filipino nationals last May over its dispute with the country over worker protection and employer rights.

DMW also reported on the firstsemester deployment figures for Malaysia (17,289), United Kingdom (11,485) and others (171,532).

Emerging trends

C A CDAC n oted new emerging trends in terms of the demand for OFWs, brought about the new pri -

government resources.

“It was too short to cause any impact on rice prices but long enough to waste government resources. I don’t think hoarders kept their stock. Rice prices are lower now because of huge wet season harvest,” Lanzona said.

“This diminished whatever market power the hoarders had. Rice is perishable. o n e cannot keep it for too long. Because of the harvest, these hoarders have no choice but also [sell] their stock at a lower price. Something that rice price regulations could not do,” he added.

Briones told this newspaper some stalls may have decided to keep their stocks of good rice instead of selling them at a lower price or at the price cap.

He said this is possible given that stalls did

Rice…

Continued from A1

orities of their destination countries.

“The world was different four years ago. It is not the same world that we are living in,"”Cacdac said.

Healthcare workers, he said, are more sought after as countries prioritize universal healthcare.

Other-in-demand occupations abroad are those involved in tourism and construction.

“We are living in a more automated and more green economy. There are more challenges in terms of tourism, infrastructures and health,” Cacdac said.

He noted this has resulted in new challenges for DMW in terms of contracts processing and setting new standards.

“The world has transformed and it's up to us to keep up with the change,” he added.

not want to lose money. They may have also opted to stop ordering RMR and WMR in order to avoid selling rice that fell under the price cap.

In a press briefing on Thursday, National Statistician Claire d e nnis S. Mapa said the PS a s data collection, done twice in a month, yielded data pointing to some level of non-compliance of stalls with the price cap.

Mapa said, however, there was higher compliance during the second phase of their data collection. Based on their data, PS a collected information on 2,601 varieties of RMR and 3,498 varieties of WMR.

o f the RMR varieties, only 640 of these fell under price cap of P41 per kilo while 687 of the WMR varieties fell under the P45 price cap.

May mga outlets na nagsasabing inuubos nila yung stocks dito sa regular and well-millec rice kaya nagkaroon ng mas mataas na presyo doon sa karamihan, 41 for the RMR, 45 for WMR. Nung second phase, nagkaroon ng adjustment at mas marami yung masasabi nating mas compliant," Mapa explained.

Higher inflation

eC o N o MISTS d o not expect inflation, especially rice inflation, to cool any time soon. Lanzona said apart from the upside risks identified by Neda, there has been no effort to improve production.

No program has been put in place that will lead to higher food, and, consequently, rice prices in the coming months. “a l of these is coming from the ineptitude of the previous administration which has spilled into this one,” he said.

Briones, meanwhile, said, that food, especially rice, will have a larger impact on the country's inflation rate in the coming months and could spill over to 2024.

While the fourth quarter of the year usually sees an uptick in prices due to Holiday spending, this time the reason for the higher prices will still be rice.

a s a net food importer, the Philippines is greatly affected by global commodity prices.

Given this, efforts from other countries like India to ban the export of rice will affect domestic prices of the staple.

“Rice will remain a major driver [of inflation]. Holiday spending will only be a minor contributor,” Briones said.

Low incomes

Fo R Ib on Foundation Inc., this only showed that the “administration is failing to effectively address soaring prices and help poor and vulnerable Filipinos cope.”

The group noted that low incomes are making it difficult for Filipino households to keep up with rising prices, even with the recent wage hike approvals in some regions.

Year-to-date, inflation averaged 6.6 percent and remains above the government’s average inflation target of 5-6 percent for the year. In order to attain this target, Ibon said at least a monthly 4 percent inflation is needed for the remaining months of 2023 to meet this target.

Ibon said the National Capital Region (NCR) P610 nominal minimum wage falls short of the P1,186 family living wage (FLW) as of September 2023 for a family of five, with a wage gap of 49 percent or P576.

The Region IV- a wage increase by P50 to P520 also falls short of the region’s P1,108 FLW with a wage gap of 53 percent or P588.

“The toiling poor are bracing themselves for even higher prices with the administration’s removal of the otherwise ineffectual rice price cap and with higher fuel prices and transport fares,” Ibon said.

Ibon added the government could provide relief through substantial wage hikes, ayuda and support for small businesses and producers. It can also take initial long-term steps like significantly boosting domestic agriculture support and ayuda for all in need through the 2024 national budget. Cai U. Ordinario

Manuntag explained that the higher harvest coupled with the removal of pass-through fees within local government units would lead to the decline in retail prices of rice.

President Marcos Jr. earlier issued Executive Order 41 that suspended the imposition of passthrough fees among local government units for vehicles that are transporting goods.

“The bumper harvest and the removal of the pass-through fees are positive developments that can reduce prices by P2 to P3 per kilogram,” Manuntag said.

Manuntag disclosed that based on their initial estimates, EO 41 would easily reduce the prices of rice cavan by P10 to P20.

Because of these factors, Manuntag said there is no reason for domestic rice prices to further increase, especially since Marcos has already lifted the price ceiling on the grain.

“By law of supply and demand, we have abundant supply because of the harvest and therefore we do not see prices to further increase," he said.

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jeepney fare hike which placed the base fare at P13 starting this month.

“We expect a rate hike from the BSP in its November meeting considering the latest developments. We also cannot rule out an inter-meeting hike, especially if the Peso breaches the 57 level. The risk of further Peso depreciation is significant right now because of the recent behavior of oil prices and the surge in US yields,” BPI said.

Jonathan L. Ravelas, senior adviser at professional services firm Reyes Tacandong & Co., agreed with the possibility of a 25-bps rate hike in November. However, he expects the BSP to continue its monetary tightening stance.

Ravelas told BusinessMirror there is a possibility for BSP to raise interest rates to as high as 7 percent. This may be done in two tranches, the first being a 25-bps increase and the second will be a 50- bps increase.

However, he also said, the BSP can choose to raise rates to 7 percent by making a jumbo rate hike of 75 bps, similar to what happened exactly a year ago when the BSP moved in lock-step with the United States Federal Reserve.

In November 2022, the Monetary Board raised interest rates on the BSP’s overnight repurchase facility by 75 bps to hit 5 percent, from 4.25 percent. This is the highest overnight repurchase facility interest rate level since February 2009, when it was also at 5 percent during the Global Financial Crisis. (Full story here: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2022/11/18/inflation-risks-spurrecord-high-rate-hike/).

“It can be 50 and a 25, or a jumbo 75. I think they did that last year,” Ravelas said. He said the brunt of the rate hike will be felt by the economy in the first half of 2024.

BSP: Oil, agri drove inflation

Mea NWH IL e , in a statement, the BSP said the latest inflation print was driven mainly by the increase in prices for oil and key agricultural commodities.

Prices are expected to remain elevated due to supply shocks and the spike in global oil prices.

to family and friends remain the main reason for money transfers at 85 percent, with nearly a third of participants expressing a strong inclination to solely send money to their closest family members.

One in 10 remittance senders are feeling heightened pressure to send money home. Against this backdrop, the number of respondents who reported an increase in the cost of living for those they send money to grew by 73 percent since the start of 2023.

"The price of imported rice is also declining, and we are seeing more importers averse to importing,” he added.

Manuntag pointed out that they do not see farmers losing profit in the coming harvest because of the newly increased buying price of the National Food Authority (NFA) at P23 per kilogram.

NFA’s higher buying price can dictate the farm-gate prices offered by rice traders, he added.

“If the farmer would sell to private traders and the private traders would buy below P23 per kilogram, the farmer would just opt to sell to the NFA instead to the private traders,” Manuntag said.

The Federation of Free Farmers (FFF) said the lifting of the price ceiling would allow palay prices to “stabilize” in the ongoing harvest season and “provide incentives” to farmers to expand their production.

“As fresh harvests enter the market, we also expect retail prices of rice to go down without the need for price caps,” the FFF said.

“However, the government will have to pursue its campaign against smugglers and price manipulators whose illegal activities depress farmgate prices even as they keep retail prices high for consumers,” the FFF added.

BSP said inflation will decelerate back to within the inflation target by end-2023 in the absence of further supply shocks. However, risks to the inflation outlook remain skewed to the upside for 2023 to 2025.

The main factors for possible increases in inflation include petitions for transport fare adjustments, higher domestic prices of key food items facing persistent supply constraints, and higher-thanexpected minimum wage adjustments in areas outside Metro Manila.

The impact of e l Niño weather conditions on food prices and utility rates and higher electricity rates are also included, said BSP, among the major upside risks to the inflation outlook.

“The BSP stands ready to resume monetary policy tightening as necessary to prevent the renewed broadening of price pressures, as well as the emergence of additional second-order effects in view of the persistent upside risks to the inflation outlook,” BSP said.

The BSP reiterated its support for the timely and effective implementation of non-monetary government measures to mitigate the impact of persistent supplyside pressures on inflation. e a rlier, the BSP said the relentless onslaught of supply shocks would likely keep it hawkish until next year as conditions may merit more than one rate hike.

In an interview on Bloomberg TV, BSP Governor e li M. Remolona Jr. said BSP is considering a rate hike in November as mounting inflationary pressures are bound to increase.

Remolona said while Thursday’s vote to maintain policy rates was unanimous, the vote was “pretty close between hiking and not hiking.”

He said the Monetary Board’s primary consideration was the increase in fares and electricity rates as these could add 0.5 percent to the inflation forecast of the BSP, especially in 2024.

Remolona said that while supply shocks tend to be temporary, this is not the case in the Philippines right now, as petitions for transport fare hikes may be granted. This includes adjustments in commuter rail, jeepney, and taxi fares.

The Supreme Court also upheld the e ner gy Regulatory Commission’s (e R C) decision to allow power firms to pass on increases in their cost to consumers, likely leading to higher electricity costs.

International money senders living in the USA, Australia, and the United Kingdom, aged more than 18 years old, voluntarily responded to a 13-question survey between July 28 and August 3, 2023 about how the cost of living and inflation have changed behaviors when it comes to sending remittances. The survey took place on the Attest platform and resulted in 3,000—or 1,000 per country—responses from people who have sent remittances in the past year.

• Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

Authorities seize over 200 kilos of shabu at MICP from Mexico

By Rex Anthony Naval

GOVERNMENT anti-nar -

cotics operatives are now conducting an inventory and checking the more than 200 kilos of shabu intercepted and seized at the Manila International

Container Port (MICP).

This was confirmed by Philippine National Police (PNP) public information office head Col. Jean Fajardo at a news briefing on Thursday.

The inventory and accounting of the banned substance is still being conducted by the Inter-Agency Drug

Interdiction Task Group (IADITG), she added.

And as background, Fajardo said the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) last week received an intelligence report that a large illegal drug shipment will be coming through the MICP via Mexico.

She added that the PDEG then shared their information to the Bureau of Customs (BOC), which then conducted an inspection when a ship with the control numbers matching those of the intelligence report arrived.

Subsequent examination of some of the boxes or containers

through X-ray revealed the presence of the illegal drugs.

However, Fajardo said that they are still awaiting for the report to determine the exact quantity of the seized narcotics.

Initial reports placed the confiscated drugs to around 200 to 270 kilos but Fajardo said that there is a distinct possibility that there could be more.

Earlier, some 530 kilos of shabu were seized from a warehouse in Mexico, Pampanga last month.

These confiscated illegal drugs were worth P3.6 billion and were shipp ed through the Port of Subic.

Amid card shortage, LTO extends validity of expired driver’s license

By Lorenz S. Marasigan  @lorenzmarasigan

THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has introduced a staggered schedule for the renewal of driver’s licenses on Thursday.

At a news briefing, LTO Chief Vigor Mendoza II said effective immediately, drivers with licenses that expired between April 1 and April 30 of this year are required to initiate their renewal process between October 6 and October 31.

Those with licenses that expired from May 1 to 31 will have to renew their license starting November 1 until 30. The same pattern will apply for licenses that expired between June and September this year. They are scheduled for renewal application between December

2023 to March 2024.

“We made the schedule staggered because, first, the supply of plastic cards is staggered as well. Secondly, we don’t want an influx of applicants in our offices because chances are, they will just create a long queue in offices. We would like to avoid long queues at licensing centers,” Mendoza explained.

The LTO registered a backlog on the issuance of license cards as its previous administrators failed to acquire the needed supply for 2023. It then decided to extend the validity of licenses to arrest the demand for renewals.

It also decided to issue paper licenses for interim use.

Mendoza announced that the government now has “enough” supply of plastic cards to address the 2.4-million backlog as well as current usage.

“We now have enough driver’s license cards. By March 31, 2024, we are back on track—we won’t have any backlog. More or less around 2.4 million license holders were affected by the backlog, and we hope to address that in the next couple of months. LTO offices can now issue plastic licenses, catering to both the backlog and current usage,” he said.

Currently, the LTO has a supply of 1.2 million plastic cards, which were delivered by its supplier, Banner Plasticard Inc., after the injunction order lapsed on September 6.

To recall, a Quezon City Regional Trial Court issued a stay order against the LTO on the award of the license card supply contract.

Allcard Inc., the bidder that failed the post-qualification process for the said deal, sought the issuance of a stay order against the

deal, citing “grave abuse of discretion regulating in lack or excess of jurisdiction to post disqualify petitioner Allcard, despite being the lowest calculated bidder and consequently to question the award of the contract to respondent Banner Plasticard Inc.”  Allcard was disqualified during the post-qualification process of its bid after the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) Central Bids and Awards Committee (CBAC) found that it had “incurred delays in its ongoing contracts with the government.”

Banner Plasticard Inc. won the auction in June.

“We have 1.2M cards now. We are confident of the deliveries,” Mendoza said.

Meanwhile, the LTO also provided an update on license plates,

which is also in a state of delay in delivery.

“The license plate supply is already with the LTO. We’re starting to produce already. Our capacity is 32,000 to 33,000 a day, with full capacity reaching 42,000 to 45,000 a day. We are not yet at full capacity because we are fixing some machines,” Mendoza explained.

However, he noted that the LTO would be able to finish the machine upkeep by the first week of November.

“By the first week of November, we will already be running at full capacity. With that level of production, the backlog of motor vehicle plates, which stands at 80,000, will be wiped out by November this year. The backlog of 13 million motorcycle plates is expected to be wiped out by April 2025,” Mendoza said.

DESPITE harassment from China coast guard and maritime militia vessels, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) on Wednesday night announced another successful rotation and resupply (RORE) mission for the detachment aboard the BRP Sierra Madre standing watch over Ayungin Shoal.

“Upon instructions of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., a regular and routine RORE mission to deliver fresh provisions to our military personnel stationed at BRP Sierra Madre was conducted today [Wednesday] through the combined efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines [AFP] Western Command [Wescom] and the Philippine Coast Guard [PCG],” it added.

And despite attempts by a significant number of China coast guard and Chinese maritime militia vessels to block, harass, and interfere with this latest RORE, the NTF-WPS said resupply boats Unaizah May 1 and Unaizah May 2 and their PCG escorts, BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) and BRP Sindangan (MRRV-4407), successfully completed their mission.

“The NTF-WPS commends the dedication, determination, and professionalism exhibited by the men and women of our Armed Forces and Coast Guard,” it added.

Tensions off Ayungin Shoal have flared up recently following Chinese harassment against Filipino supply boats and their escorts in the last two months.

NTF-WPS added that the Philippines’ resupply missions and maintenance of BRP Sierra Madre are part of regular operations in line with domestic and international law and ensures safety and well-being of military personnel stationed there.

“These missions are a legitimate exercise of the administrative functions of the Philippine Government over the WPS, in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea [UNCLOS], the 2016 Arbitral Award, and domestic laws,” it stressed.

NTF-WPS also said Marcos Administration remains steadfast in adhering to a rules-based international order. Rex Anthony Naval

Another resupply mission for Ayungin Shoal in WPS detachment completed

Cagayan de Oro backs EO halting collection of pass-through fees on transport of goods

By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan

The Cagayan De Oro (CDO) local government unit (LGU), touted as a major gateway and logistics hub in Mindanao, said it will adhere to the measure which enjoins LGUs to suspend the collection of fees on vehicles transporting goods, stressing the measure is intended to “keep things moving.”

“That’s an issuance of [the] national leadership. Definitely LGUs will have to conform to it,” Roy h i lario P. Raagas, CDO city administrator, said on the sidelines of the Cagayan De Oro Investment Forum in Mandaluyong City.

The city government official underscored that the LGU fully comprehends the purpose of the executive order on the lifting of collection of pass-through fees on vehicles transporting consumer goods.

Raagas also said the CDO LGU won’t be

affected by the suspension of collection of pass-through fees on LGUs considering that the city is a logistics hub where a lot of traders pass through.

“CDO won’t be affected by that, there are much more cities that will be affected by that kasinamanas a highly urbanized city, CDO is blessed to have many local businesses that will contribute to its local revenues,” the city government official explained.

Speaking on behalf of CDO Mayor Rolando A. Uy, George Goking, CDO’s City councilor divulged during the investment forum that the LGU ranks 7th most competitive highly urbanized Philippine City ( h U C) by the National Competitiveness Council in 2023.

A document obtained from the investment forum explained that CDO, as a highly urbanized city, has a “well-developed” infrastructure backbone; excellent connectivity to major production areas and

markets through the presence of an international port and multi-berth base port, an international-standard airport, and extensive inter and intra-city road networks.

Moreover, the investment pitch document of CDO noted that the LGU has “rich agricultural resources; extensive pool of human resources; and, a diverse range of eco-tourism attractions including a dynamic culture and arts calendar.”

One of the factors that enable the city to bag the 7th spot as most competitive highly urbanized Philippine city is its “full automation” and end-to-end online processing of business permits, assessment and payment of real property taxes and other fees, including integration of barangay clearance and other regulatory fees, fully complying with the e a se of Doing Business ( e O DB) law and earning the Anti-Red Tape Authority’s (ARTA) recommendation.

Goking pitched CDO as a “major gateway

PCA bares plan to plant 100-M coconut trees in next five years

The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) proposed the planting 100 million additional coconut trees in the next five years to address the country’s reduced

production of the high-value crop.

At a meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Malacañang, PCA bared its Coconut Planting and Replanting project,

which aims to plant 20 to 25 million trees annually from 2023 to 2028.

The attached agency of the Department of Agriculture (DA) recommended the issuance of a memorandum circular to “direct all concerned national government agencies and instrumentalities and urge local government units [LGUs] to undertake efforts in support of the project.”

PCA already signed memorandum of agreement with several coconut-producing provinces and municipalities for the implementation of coconut planting and replanting, seed farm development, and coconut fertilization activities.

The President welcomed the proposal of PCA to help in the development and rehabilitation of the coconut industry.

h e instructed the agency to enhance its plan by making sure it continues even after his term in 2028.

“Don’t bother with political terms. If there is no [consideration on] politics and change in administration [in the plan], we can be assured

and transshipment hub in Mindanao.” In fact, the investment pitch document unveiled the trading gateways of Northern Mindanao.

One of these is the Mindanao Container Terminal located in Tagoloan, which is less than an hour from Cagayan de Oro and facilitates direct and cost-efficient movement of containerized cargoes to Manila, Cebu, and other international shipping hubs.

Another gateway, the document noted, is the “multi-berth in-city” Cagayan de Oro Baseport, which handles inter-island passenger travel with connectivity to the country’s nautical highway and the logistics corridors of Mindanao.

As for trade through aviation, CDO has the Laguindingan Airport, which services air logistics requirements, while an extensive inter- and intra-city road network leads to and from the major production areas and markets of Mindanao.

According to the investment pitch docu-

it [the tree-planting] will continue,” Marcos said partly in Filipino during the meeting.

Currently, PCA was only able to plant 1 to 3 million coconut trees, which is significantly lower than its 34 million target, due to lack of budget.

The massive replanting initiative, which was last done in the ‘70s or ‘80s, is expected to help offset the impact of tree senility, bearing tree losses due to pests and diseases, natural disasters, and climate change impact.

Local coconut production has significantly declined since 2012 when the country harvested 15.86 million metric tons (MMT) of coconut.

It dropped to 13.83 MMT in 2016 before rising to 14.73 MMT in 2018, and 14.93 MMT in 2022.

Despite the reduced production, the country was still able to export $3.22 billion worth of coconut products in 2022, which made it the biggest exporter of such commodities in the said year.

Coconut exports contributed an average of 35 percent to the country’s total agricultural export earnings from 2013 to 2022.

Samuel P. Medenilla

ment, Cagayan de Oro is the entry point for goods to a Mindanao market of 26.2 million and the “most efficient” exit for the island’s agricultural and industrial products to foreign and domestic markets.

“Supply chain companies have located their major depots or distribution centers in Cagayan de Oro and its immediate environs,” the document noted.

To help lower the price of goods and services, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. “urged” LGUs through e x ecutive Order ( e O ) No. 41, to suspend the collection of any form of fees upon all types of vehicles transporting goods under the Local Government Code of 1991.

The measure also prohibited the collection of pass-through fees on national roads.

Marcos signed the e O 41 last September 25 but only took effect last September 28 after it was posted in the Official Gazette.

Marcos tasked the Department of the Inte-

rior and Local Government (DILG) to coordinate with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Public Works and h i ghways (DPW h ) , Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) and Department of Finance (DOF) to make sure the existing ordinances of LGUs related to pass-through fees are consistent with the LGC.

The review will be done 30 days within the effectivity of the new order.

The DILG already issued a similar warning to LGUs against illegal collection of pass-through fees in 2018. h o wever, Vice President of Alliance of Concerned Truck Owners and Organization (ACTOO) Rina Papa told the B usiness M irror last Tuesday that there is a need to impose “definitive sanctions” for non-compliant LGUs considering that they had been “adamant” in the past. (Full story here: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2023/10/04/trade-groups-wantlgus-violating-ban-on-fees-sanctioned/

CDC updates trade process systems

CLARK FR e e P ORT—Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has launched two new systems to streamline and digitalize trade facilitation processes involving pertinent business processes and activities of its business locators.

This could be gleaned from a memorandum circular (MC) dated September 28, 2023 issued by Atty.

Agnes VST Devanadera, CDC president and C e O to all its registered locators and stakeholders.

The MC states that the CDC is determined to make trade processes more simplified and efficient by establishing the e l ectronic Multi

Use Gate Pass (eMGP) and e l ectronic

Monitoring of Capital e q uipment (eMonice) Systems.

Atty. Devanadera stated in the circular that the CDC’s focus on

streamlining systems is pursuant to the corporation’s efforts to further enhance the ease of doing business in Clark.

“In line with the Bureau of Customs [BOC] mandate to facilitate trade and commitment to improve delivery of services to the public, the BOC Collection District XIV—Port of Clark—shall be implementing the streamlined procedures in the Port of Clark,” she added. With this system, “manufacturing units, corporate offices, and industrial organizations can automatically record visitors’ data with gate pass management software. The software standardizes these processes with powerful dashboard functionality to manage visitors and ensure compliance and detailed reporting.”

Makati asks RTC to freeze SC award of 729-hectare Fort Bonifacio property

By Joel R. San Juan | @jrsanjuan1573 & Claudeth Mocon-Ciriaco | @claudethmc3

THE Makati City government on Thursday sought refuge before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Taguig City to stop the Taguig City government from implementing the Supreme Court’s (SC) December 1, 2021 decision awarding

I n an eight-page urgent motion, the Makati City government led by Mayor Abigail “Abby” Binay sought the issuance of a status quo ante order against the Taguig City government, which if granted, would stall Taguig’s takeover of the property.

A status quo ante order is an order to maintain the last actual, peaceable, uncontested state of things, which preceded the controversy.

The Taguig City government has decided to takeover the contested property after the SC’s Third Division denied the second motion for reconsideration filed by the Makati City government seeking the reversal of its December 21, 2021 decision, which attained finality on September 28, 2022, after the denial of the latter’s first motion for reconsideration.

The Court has also denied the appeal of the Makati City government to set the case for oral arguments and to allow the Court en banc to decide on the case.

forcement of said decision.

The petitioner insisted that under Section 11 of Rule 51 of the Revised Rules of Court, as amended by the 2019 Revised Rules of Civil Procedure, a motion for execution of a judgment must be filed unless the judgment expressly states otherwise.

“In the instant case, a mere perusal of the Decision dated 1 December 2021 would readily show that the dispositive portion does not expressly order any part thereof to be immediately executory. Ineluctably, a writ of execution is required under Section 11 of Rule 51 of the Revised Rules of Court, as amended by the 2019 Revised Rules of Civil Procedure,” the motion read.

Meanwhile, while it is willing to comply with the SC ruling, the Makati City government noted that both parties should be guided by the actual metes and bounds of the Parcels 3 and 4 as indicated in Psu-2031.

City of Taguig’s arbitrary, whimsical and capricious attempts to unilaterally and partially implement the decision dated December 1, 2021,” the motion stated.

T he Makati City government cited an alarming report from the local authorities that the City of Taguig, through its representatives, attempted to enter the premises of a housing project of Makati.

The move, according to Makati City, has caused panic and confusion among the residents and beneficiaries of the housing project.

It also cited attempts by Taguig City to take possession of several elementary and high school buildings and health and lying-in centers situated in barangays affected by the SC decision.

protect the public interest.

“ Indeed, the conservation of the status quo is desirable and essential in the present situation in order to prevent any serious prejudice to the people’s welfare and chaos in the delivery of basic services, as well as the proper turnover of local government power,” the motion stated.

In a statement released last April 2023, the SC said it had written “finis” to the territorial dispute between Taguig and Makati City in connection with the Fort Bonifacio Military Reservation where the Bonifacio Global City Complex is now located.

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) on Thursday directed its prosecutors in Antipolo City to assist in the investigation and case build-up on the incident involving a 14-year-old Grade 5 pupil who died of internal bleeding more than a week after his teacher allegedly slapped him.

In a statement, the DOJ, led by Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, also condemned any act of violence and abuse committed against children.

“Child abuse in any form is an abhorrent violation of children’s rights and a crime that should never be tolerated. Children, especially learners, deserve a safe and nurturing environment where they can grow, learn, and thrive without fear of abuse,” the DOJ said.

Initial investigation showed that Francis Jay Gumikib, a Grade 5 pupil of Peñafrancia Elementary School, experienced severe headache, dizziness, earache, and vomiting prior to his death.

By Patrick V. Miguel

COMMISSION on Elections (Comelec) Chairman

George Garcia clarified on Thursday that barangays on the “red category” list will not be automatically placed under Comelec control.

The poll body placed 242 villages under red category on Wednesday for security concerns for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

Just because a barangay [placed] under red category does not mean it is automatically under Comelec control,” said Garcia in Filipino at a news briefing with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

I t was discovered that on September 20, 2023, Gumikib was allegedly slapped by his teacher and was admitted to the hospital six days after his condition deteriorated.

The doctors found internal bleeding in the victim’s brain, which eventually caused him to go into a coma before he died on October 2, 2023.

The victim’s body is now being autopsied in the Philippine National Police (PNP) Forensic Laboratory.

“ The autopsy to determine the cause of death of Francis Gumikib is now ongoing. Nevertheless, the DOJ through the Committee on Special Protection of Children has already directed the Office of the City Prosecutor of Antipolo City to coordinate with law enforcement agencies on the investigation and case build-up on any offenses that may have been committed in relation to the death of and/or abuse perpetuated against

According to Garcia, Negros Oriental is the only municipality under Comelec control so far.

C omelec control means that the poll body has authority over law enforcement agencies, and supervision over officials and employees.

“ In the other areas of concern that are under red [category], there is a possibility that it may change depending on developments,” Garcia added.  H e said other areas may be placed under Comelec control should an electionrelated violence take place.  C omelec Commissioner Aimee Ferolino

However, in its motion filed before the Taguig RTC, the Makati City government said the status quo ante order should be issued pending the issuance of a clear guideline, particularly on the issue on whether a writ of execution is needed for the enforcement of the December 1, 2021 decision and on whether the exact metes and bounds of Parcels 3 and 4 of Psu-2031 must first be determined before any en-

Francis Gumikib,” the DOJ said.

The DOJ also reminded teachers “that they hold a position of trust and responsibility” in a child’s life, thus, any abuse of this trust “is a betrayal of the highest order.”

T he DOJ also stressed that under the Department of Education Child Protection Policy, there is a zero tolerance for any form of abuse and violence.

“Corporal punishment is prohibited, and the practice thereof may subject the erring teacher/educator to administrative and criminal proceedings,” it added. Joel R. San Juan

DOJ orders Antipolo prosecutors to help cops investigate death of Grade 5 pupil Garcia: ‘Red’ does not mean automatic Comelec control

said on Wednesday that four barangays in Region II are placed under the red category, five from Region XII, 21 from Region V, 60 from Region VI, and one each from Regions IX and III.

T he highest number of barangays marked by Comelec is in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) with 147 barangays placed under red category.  Nakahanda kaming mag action anytime, kasama ang aming security forces [We are ready to take action anytime, alongside with our security forces],” said Garcia.

The Makati City government, however, noted that none of the parties have submitted a legible and certified true copy of Psu-2031 from which the metes and bounds of Parcels 3 and 4 can be determined.

Th is lack of clear guidelines, according to Makati City, has created tension between the two cities, which warrants the issuance of a status quo ante order.

Worse, the people’s welfare has been unduly prejudiced by the

“ The City of Taguig cannot simply take the law into its own hands and act as it leases to forcibly execute the decision dated December 1, 2021,” it stressed.

With the alarming and highly confusing incidents primarily caused and/or initiated by the City of Taguig, Movant Makati is constrained to pray from this Honorable Court the issuance of a status quo ante order,” Makati City added.

It also pointed out that the SC has consistently ruled that a status quo ante order is warranted in order to promote common good as well as

The SC, in its 2021 decision, also made permanent the writ of preliminary injunction issued on August 2, 1994 by the Regional Trial Court of Pasig City enjoining the Makati City government “from exercising jurisdiction over, making improvements on, or otherwise treating as part of its territory” Parcels 3 and 4, Psu-2031, comprising Fort Bonifacio, including the so-called Inner Fort comprising of Barangays Pembo, Comembo, Cembo, South Cembo, West Rembo, East Rembo and Pitogo.

The Philippine Army headquarters, Navy installation, Marines’ headquarters, Consular area, Jusmag area, Heritage Park, Libingan ng mga Bayani, AFP Officers Village and the so-called six villages are situated in the said areas.

The Netherlands

naval industry ties with Philippines, envoy says

THE Netherlands is open to enhancing its defense ties with the Philippines and has proposed jump starting cooperation, the Department of National Defense (DND) announced Thursday.

T he proposal was extended by Ambassador of the Netherlands to the Philippines Marielle Geraedts during her courtesy call with DND Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. last October 2.

Noting the Philippines’ recent adoption of the National Security Policy 2023-2028, the Dutch Ambassador reiterated the proposal on establishing naval defense industry cooperation with the Philippines, underscoring its strategic and economic advantages in the long term.

Secretary Teodoro agreed and further proposed to develop broader defense cooperation, taking into consideration the importance of other areas such as cyber and artificial intelligence, as well as the Netherland’s potential to become a partner in these areas,” the DND said in a statement.

T his proposal is interesting

considering that the Philippines is modernizing its Navy and looking to acquire a variety of naval craft, which include corvettes, frigates, and submarines to enhance its fleet’s external defense capabilities.

I n response to this, Teodoro proposed greenfield opportunities in various industries, particularly in defense and security, with the Netherlands and the European Union.

Relatedly, the SND [Secretary of National Defense] shared about the recalibration of the Philippines’ defense strategy, which sees a shift in favor of territorial and external defense, and underscores the development of a credible defense posture that will effectively protect Philippine interests in the country’s exclusive economic zone.”

In a related development, the Philippines and Norway reaffirmed their commitment to the rule of law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

T he reaffirmation took place

during the courtesy call of Ambassador of Norway to the Philippines Christian Halaas Lyster to the defense chief last October 2.

As the Philippines and Norway celebrated the 75th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations on March 2, 2023, Ambassador Lyster proposed exploring maritime, energy, and fisheries industry cooperation with the Philippines. Secretary Teodoro, for his part, welcomed Norway’s support, noting that it would enable the country to refocus on deterrence, increase footprint in the West Philippine Sea, and assert sovereign rights for resource exploration and exploitation in the country’s exclusive economic zone,” the DND added.

Teodoro and Lyster also discussed non-traditional security concerns where the importance of the cyber domain and the seriousness of threats, such as fake news, as interconnectivity in information systems dramatically increases, were reiterated. Rex Anthony Naval

jurisdiction over the 729-hectare Fort Bonifacio Military Reservation, including the Bonifacio Global City complex and several barangays to Taguig City.

keen on beefing up

Friday, October 6, 2023 BusinessMirror A11 www.businessmirror.com.ph

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Assistant Regional Director

Pope challenges world leaders to slow global warming before reaching ‘point of no return’

By Nicole Winfield & Seth Borenstein The Associated Press

readily monitored.”

“What is being asked of us is nothing other than a certain responsibility for the legacy we will leave behind, once we pass from this world,” he said.

US climate scientist Carlos Martinez, a committed Catholic who heads a multifaith committee for the American Meteorological Society, said it reads like a report card for Earth and its people and “it appears from the language that he would give students a D, like a D-. Because there has been some progress, but it’s not where it needs to be.”

“He does not mince his words as to the state of the environment and its impacts to people and to communities,” Martinez said.

economic system where the rich exploit the poor, turning Earth into an “immense pile of filth.”

Even though encyclicals are meant to stand the test of time, Francis said he felt an update to his original was necessary because “our responses have not been adequate, while the world in which we live is collapsing and may be nearing the breaking point.”

He excoriated people, including those in the church, who doubt mainstream climate science about heat-trapping greenhouse gas emissions, sarcastically deflating their arguments and showing his impatience with their profit-atall-cost mentality.

for a papal exhortation and read more like a UN scientific report or a speech to a “Fridays for Future” youth climate rally. It carried a sharp, no holds barred tone and its footnotes had far more references to U.N. climate reports, NASA and Francis’ own previous encyclicals than Scripture.

In an unusually bleak update to his landmark 2015 encyclical on the environment, Francis heightened the alarm about the “irreversible” harm to people and planet already under way and lamented that once again, the world’s poor and most vulnerable are paying the highest price.

“We are now unable to halt the enormous damage we have caused. We barely have time to prevent even more tragic damage,” Francis warned. He took square aim at the United States, noting that percapita emissions in the US are twice as high as China and seven times greater than the average in poor countries. While individual, household efforts are helping, “we can state that a broad change in the irresponsible lifestyle connected with the Western model

By David Keyton, Christina Larson & Rodrique Ngowi

The Associated Press

STOCKHOLM—Three scientists won the Nobel Prize in chemistry Wednesday for their work on quantum dots—tiny particles just a few nanometers in diameter that can release very bright colored light and whose applications in everyday life include electronics and medical imaging.

Moungi Bawendi of MIT, Louis Brus of Columbia University, and Alexei Ekimov of Nanocrystals Technology Inc., were honored for their work with the tiny particles that “have unique properties and now spread their light from television screens and LED lamps,” according to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, which announced the award in Stockholm.

The suspense surrounding the academy’s decision took an unusual turn when Swedish media reported the winners several hours before the prize was announced. The advance notice apparently came from a news release sent out early by mistake.

What discovery won the Nobel Prize in chemistry?

QUANTUM dots are tiny inorganic particles that glow a range of colors from red to blue when exposed to light. The color they emit depends upon the size of the particle.

Scientists can engineer the dots from materials that include gold, graphene and cadmium, and create their color by controlling their size. The tiniest particles, in which electrons are most tightly confined, emit blue light. Slightly larger particles, in which electrons bounce around a longer wavelength, emit red light.

Chemists sometimes compare the size of the particle itself to a confining box.

The underlying “particle in a box” theory of quantum mechanics was first described nearly a century ago. But it wasn’t until several decades later that scientists could manufacture quantum dots in a lab.

In the 1980s, Ekimov, 78, and Brus,

would have a significant long-term impact,” he said.

The document, “Praise God,” was released on the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the pontiff’s nature-loving namesake, and was aimed at spurring negotiators to commit to binding climate targets at the next round of U.N. talks in Dubai.

Francis weighed in on a key and contentious point of negotiations— whether countries should agree to a phase out of coal, oil and natural gas, the fossil fuels that are causing climate change. He is for it. As fast as possible even, he wrote.

Using precise scientific data, sharp diplomatic arguments and a sprinkling of theological reasoning, Francis delivered a moral imperative for the world to transition away from fossil fuels to clean energy with measures that are “efficient, obligatory and

This is one of the least hopeful messages that Pope Francis has issued, Martinez said. But it is scientifically accurate, he and other scientists told The Associated Press.

“The tone is appropriate given the magnitude of the challenges we face,” Northern Illinois University climate scientist Victor Gensini said.

As it is, Francis’ 2015 encyclical “Praise Be” was a watershed moment for the Catholic Church, the first time a pope had used one of his most authoritative teaching documents to recast the climate debate in moral terms.

In that text, which has been cited by presidents, patriarchs and premiers and spurred an activist movement in the church, Francis called for a bold cultural revolution to correct a “structurally perverse”

happened,” he said. “This is very unfortunate and we deeply regret what happened.”

Shaming them for their reliance on “allegedly solid scientific data,” he said the doubters’ arguments about potential job losses from a clean energy transition were bunk. And he cited data showing that increased emissions and the corresponding rise in global temperatures have accelerated since the Industrial Revolution, and particularly in the last 50 years.

“It is no longer possible to doubt the human—‘anthropic’—origin of climate change,” he asserted.

While acknowledging that “certain apocalyptic diagnoses” may not be grounded, he said inaction is no longer an option. The devastation is already under way, he said, including with some already “irreversible” harm done to biodiversity and species loss that will only snowball unless urgent action is taken now.

The document was unusual

“To have a global religious leader like Pope Francis putting climate action in terms of defending life is huge,” said Evangelical Environmental Network President Jessica Moerman, a climate scientist turned pastor and board member of the National Association of Evangelicals. This, she said, is telling people that climate change “is causing human suffering and that as people of faith committed to defending life, this is something we can no longer ignore.”

“Praise God,” was issued ahead of the next round of UN climate talks, which begin November 30 in Dubai. Just as he did with his 2015 encyclical “Praise Be,” which was penned before the start of the Paris climate conference, Francis aimed to cast the issue of global warming in stark moral terms to spur courageous decisions by world leaders.

In the 2015 landmark Paris Agreement, countries of the world agreed to try to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) or at least 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) since pre-industrial times. It’s already warmed about 1.1 degrees (2 degrees Fahrenheit) since the mid-1800s.

Since 2015, the world has spewed at least 288 billion metric tons (317 billion US tons) of heat-trapping carbon dioxide in the air, not including this year’s emissions, according to the scientists at Global Carbon Project. In August 2015, there were 399 parts per million of carbon dioxide in the air and in August 2023 it was up to 420 parts per million, a 5 percent jump.

The record-hot summer of 2023 is one-third of a degree Celsius (six-tenths of a degree Fahrenheit) warmer than the summer of 2015, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Antarctica and Greenland have lost more than 2,100 billion metric tons (2,300 billion US tons) of land ice, since the summer of 2015, according to NASA.

And in the United States alone, there have been 152 climate or weather disasters that caused at least $1 billion in damage since the pope’s first climate message, with costs adjusted for inflation, according to NOAA.

Francis devoted an entire section of his document on upcoming climate negotiations in Dubai, saying a switch in the way the world gets its energy has to be “drastic, intense and count on the commitment of all.”

“’Praise God’ is the title of this letter. “For when human beings claim to take God’s place, they become their own worst enemies,” he wrote.

B orenstein reported from Washington.

80, honed the theory and developed early laboratory techniques for creating particles that emit varying colors by adjusting sizes. In 1993, Bawendi, 62, developed new chemical methods for producing the particles quickly and uniformly—which soon enabled a variety of scalable commercial applications, including in electronics displays.

Judy Giordan, president of the American Chemical Society, said she was thrilled at this year’s winners.

“What we care about a lot in chemistry is being able to make and tailor novel structures and architectures to solve problems that help people and the planet,” Giordan said.

Rigoberto Advincula, a materials chemist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, said the work helped bridge the fields of physics and chemistry, adding:

“This technology is very easy to reproduce— that’s why it became so popular and so widespread.”

Today quantum dots are commonly used in electronics displays and biomedical imaging. The florescent quality of the particles allows researchers to track how drugs are delivered within the human body, as well as to study the precise location and growth of a tumor, for example.

Were the winners announced prematurely?

SWEDISH media reported hours before Wednesday’s announcement that the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences had sent out a news release that identified Bawendi, Brus and Ekimov as the latest Nobel laureates.

Public broadcaster SVT said the release said they were receiving the prize for the “discovery and synthesis of quantum dots.”

After officially announcing the three winners, Secretary-General Hans Ellegren said the Swedish academy would investigate how the information got out in advance.

“There was a press release sent out for still unknown reasons. We have been very active this morning to find out exactly what

The academy, which awards the physics, chemistry and economics prizes, asks for nominations a year in advance from thousands of university professors and other scholars around the world.

A committee for each prize then discusses candidates in a series of meetings before presenting one or more proposals to the full academy for a vote. The deliberations, including the names of nominees other than the winners, are kept confidential for 50 years.

How did the winners react?

BAWENDI told a news conference he was “very surprised, sleepy, shocked, unexpected and very honored.”

Asked about the leak, he said he didn’t know he’d been made a Nobel laureate until he was called by the academy.

Bawendi said he was not thinking about the possible applications of his work when he started researching quantum dots.

“The motivation really is the basic science. A basic understanding, the curiosity of how does the world work? And that’s what drives scientists and academic scientists to do what they do,” he said.

Brus, a professor emeritus at Columbia, said he didn’t pick up the phone when the early morning call came from the Swedish academy to notify him.

“It was ringing during the night, but I didn’t answer it because I’m trying to get some sleep, basically,” he told The Associated Press. He finally saw the news online when he got up around 6 a.m.

“I certainly was not expecting this,” Brus said.

Brus said he was glad to see recognition for the area of chemistry he practices. The practical applications of quantum dots, like creating the colors in flat-screen TVs, are something he was hoping for when he started the work decades ago, he said.

Larson reported from Washington. Ngowi reported from Cambridge, Massachusetts. Mike Corder in The Hague, Netherlands; Maddie Burakoff and Shelby Lum in New York, and Daniel Kozin in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, contributed.

Flash floods kill at least 14 in India and leave more than 100 missing

By Ashok Sharma

The Associated Press

NEW DELHI—Rescue workers were searching for more than 100 people on Thursday after flash floods triggered by a sudden heavy rainfall swamped several towns in northeastern India, killing at least 14 people, officials said.

More than 2,000 people were rescued after Wednesday’s floods, the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority said in a statement, adding that state authorities set up 26 relief camps for more than 22,000 people impacted by the floods.

The Press Trust of India news agency reported that 102 people were missing and cited state government officials saying 14 people died in the floods.

Among the missing were 22 army soldiers, officials said. One soldier who had been reported missing on Wednesday was later rescued by authorities, local media reported. Some army camps and vehicles were submerged under mud following the floods.

Eleven bridges were washed away by the floodwaters, which also hit pipelines and damaged or destroyed more than 270 houses in four districts, officials said.

The flooding occurred along the Teesta River in the Lachen Valley in Sikkim state and was worsened when parts of a dam were washed away.

Several towns, including Dikchu and Rangpo in the Teesta basin, were flooded, and schools in four districts were ordered shut until Sunday, the state’s education department said.

A VEHICLE that got washed away lies atop a submerged building after flash floods triggered by a sudden heavy rainfall swamped the Rangpo town in Sikkim, India on Thursday, Oct.5. 2023.

Parts of a highway that links Sikkim, the state capital, with the rest of the country were washed away.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s office said in a statement that the government would support state authorities in the aftermath of the flooding.

The flooding was caused by cloudbursts—sudden, very heavy rains—which are defined as when more than 10 centimeters (3.9 inches) of rainfall occurs within 10 square kilometers (3.8 square miles) within an hour. Cloudbursts can cause intense flooding and landslides affecting thousands of people.

The mountainous Himalayan region where Sikkim is located has seen heavy monsoon rains this season.

Nearly 50 people died in flash floods and landslides in August in nearby Himachal Pradesh state.

Record rains in July killed more than 100 people over two weeks in northern India, as roads were waterlogged and homes collapsed.

Disasters caused by landslides and floods are common in India’s Himalayan region during the June-September monsoon season. Scientists say they are becoming more frequent as global warming contributes to the melting of glaciers there.

“This is, incredibly sadly, another classic case of a cascading hazard chain that amplifies as you go downstream,” said Jakob Steiner, a climate scientist with the International Center for Integrated Mountain Development, commenting on Wednesday’s flash flooding.

Earlier this year, Steiner’s organization published a report saying that Himalayan glaciers could lose 80 percent of their volume if global warming isn’t controlled.

In February 2021, flash floods killed nearly 200 people and washed away houses in Uttarakhand state in northern India.

The Associated Press Writer Sibi Arasu contributed to this report from Bengaluru, India.

VATICAN CITY—Pope Francis

shamed and challenged world leaders on Wednesday to commit to binding targets to slow climate change before it’s too late, warning that God’s increasingly warming creation is fast reaching a “point of no return.”

3 scientists win Nobel in chemistry for quantum dots research used in electronics, medical imaging

The World

IMF sees continuing US support for Ukraine despite Congress dropping $6 billion in aid

By David Mchugh & Hanna Arhirova The Associated Press

That’s despite Congress recently passing a short-term funding package that averted a US government shutdown but dropped $6 billion in aid to Ukraine. It’s not clear if, when or how that aid installment might be restored.

The US has already sent or committed $69.5 billion in military, financial and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, according to the Institute for the World Economy in Kiel, Germany.

“President Biden has made an announcement...that he is fully committed to supporting Ukraine,” Uma Ramakrishnan, IMF European department deputy director, said at a news conference Wednesday in Kyiv. “And so from our standpoint, the baseline assumption remains that the US remains committed.”

She added that “it is premature for us to comment on what will materialize or not, because we have

to wait for the process to play out.”

Officials from the Washingtonbased IMF also said Ukraine’s economy was showing surprising resilience despite widespread damage from Russia’s war.

The Ukrainian economy has shown improving growth and lower inflation this year after the disastrous loss in 2022 of around a

third of its output, including from war destruction and Russian occupation of key industrial areas.

Key to that improvement has been foreign financial aid, which gets less attention than military supplies but helps Ukraine keep paying civil servants and pensioners. It also has helped keep people’s savings

Fukushima nuclear plant starts 2nd release of treated radioactive wastewater into the sea

By Mari Yamaguchi

The Associated Press

TOKYO—Japan’s wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant said it began releasing a second batch of treated radioactive wastewater into the sea on Thursday after the first round of discharges ended smoothly.

Plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings said workers activated a pump to dilute the treated water with large amounts of seawater, slowly sending the mixture into the ocean through an underground tunnel. The wastewater discharges, which are expected to continue for decades, have been strongly opposed by fishing groups and neighboring countries including South Korea, where hundreds of people staged protest rallies. China banned all imports of Japanese seafood, badly hurting Japanese seafood producers and exporters.

The plant’s first wastewater release began August 24 and ended Septembera 11. During that release, TEPCO said it discharged 7,800 tons of treated water from 10 tanks. In the second discharge, TEPCO plans to release another

7,800 tons of treated water into the Pacific Ocean over 17 days.

About 1.34 million tons of radioactive wastewater is stored in about 1,000 tanks at the plant. It has accumulated since the plant was crippled by a massive earthquake and tsunami in 2011.

TEPCO and the government say discharging the water into the sea is unavoidable because the tanks will reach capacity early next year and space at the plant will be need -

ed for its decommissioning, which is expected to take decades.

They say the water is treated to reduce radioactive materials to safe levels, and then is diluted with seawater by hundreds of times to make it much safer than international standards.

Some scientists say, however, that the continuing release of low-level radioactive materials is unprecedented and needs to be monitored closely.

Japan’s government has set up a relief fund to help find new markets and reduce the impact of China’s seafood ban. Measures also include the temporary purchase, freezing and storage of seafood and promotion of seafood sales at home.

Cabinet ministers have traveled to Fukushima to sample local seafood and promote its safety.

TEPCO is tasked with providing compensation for reputational damage to the region’s seafood caused by the wastewater release. It started accepting applications this week and immediately received hundreds of inquiries. Most of the damage claims are linked to China’s seafood ban and excess supply at home causing price declines, TEPCO said.

Agriculture Minister Ichiro Miyashita promoted Japanese scallops at a food fair in Malaysia on Wednesday on the sidelines of a regional farm ministers’ meeting.

The International Atomic Energy Agency has reviewed the safety of the wastewater release and concluded that if carried out as planned, it would have a negligible impact on the environment, marine life and human health.

and salaries from vanishing due to price spikes.

The budget aid means Ukraine’s government can avoid using the central bank to print money to cover its bills—an emergency necessity it turned to in the first days of the invasion, but a practice that can lead to runaway inflation.

Annual inflation has fallen from 26 percent in January to 8.6 percent in August. The central bank on Monday was confident enough in the stability of Ukraine’s currency to drop a fixed exchange rate imposed at the start of the war.

The IMF is lending Ukraine $15.6 billion over four years. That should clear the way for a total of $115 billion from donor countries that is expected to cover the government’s financing needs. The IMF loan helps bring in funds from other donors who are reassured by the IMF’s review of Ukraine’s economic practices and requirements to improve governance and fight corruption.

Ukraine is “making good progress” on passing legislation on a specialized anti-corruption

prosecutor, said IMF Ukraine mission chief Gavin Gray. Bills were introduced in September ahead of a December deadline under the loan agreement.

IMF loan agreements with Ukraine before the war had stalled due to lack of progress in curbing corruption and the influence of politically influential business moguls. These oligarchs have kept a low profile since the invasion, and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has fired several top government officials suspected of misconduct to show he is serious in fighting corruption. Ukraine’s economy “is certainly adapting to the war environment and showing remarkable resilience,” with increasing consumer demand boosting growth, deputy mission chief Nathan Epstein said. He added that economic growth should be at the upper end of the IMF forecast of 1 percent-3 percent this year.

McHugh reported from Frankfurt, Germany.

Oil holds steepest drop in more than a year on demand worries

By Elizabeth Low & Alex Longley

OIL held its sharp decline from the previous session on concerns that a slowdown in global growth will erode away consumption.

West Texas Intermediate was steady near $84 a barrel after sinking 5.6 percent on Wednesday, the most since September last year. Crude’s drop was led by a plunge in gasoline after US data showed stockpiles surged in the US and demand fall.

Oil also tumbled through key technical levels Wednesday with both Brent and WTI plunging below their 50-day moving average for the first time since July. Market volatility also surged during the rout, bolstering options trading.

After rallying strongly in the third quarter—with the US benchmark topping $95 a barrel near the end of September— crude’s upsurge has faltered. While the gains had fueled speculation that a return to $100 oil was on the cards, others remained skeptical, with notable bear Citigroup Inc. making the case that prices were on course to reverse as the market returned to a surplus.

Oil’s sharp retreat has come

against a backdrop of rising worries about elevated interest rates and the global economy that has rattled equity and bond markets in recent weeks. If sustained, it will help to cool inflationary pressures as central bankers including those at the Federal Reserve debate whether they’ve hiked borrowing costs enough. Monthly US jobs data Friday will be scrutinized for clues on the economy’s health.

“The current rates environment along with the US dollar strength has only provided stronger headwinds to the market,” said Warren Patterson, head of commodities strategy at ING. Crude’s tumble came despite announcements from Saudi Arabia and Russia that voluntary production cuts would remain in place through the end of the year.

In addition, an Opec+ committee recommended no change to collective curbs.

The rally in oil has reversed as “bond markets have been signaling economic weakness, and US gasoline demand continues to lag,” Citi analysts including Francesco Martoccia and Ed Morse said in a note. “Collapsing prices likely informed the Opec+ decision to stay the course on output cuts to year-end.” Bloomberg News

WHO authorizes a second malaria vaccine: Experts warn it’s not enough to stop the disease spreading

By Maria Cheng AP Medical Writer

LONDON—The World Health Organization authorized a second malaria vaccine on Monday, a decision that could offer countries a cheaper and a more readily available option than the world’s first shot against the parasitic disease.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the UN health agency was approving the new malaria vaccine based on the advice of two expert groups, recommending its use in children at risk of the disease.

“As a malaria researcher, I used to dream of the day we would have a safe and effective vaccine against malaria. Now we have

two,” Tedros said.

Oxford University developed the new three-dose vaccine with help from the Serum Institute of India. Research suggests it is more than 75 percent effective and that protection is maintained for at least another year with a booster.

Tedros said the shot would cost about $2 to $4 and could be available in some countries next year if funders agree to buy it.

Earlier this year, regulatory authorities in Ghana and Burkina Faso approved the vaccine.

“This is one more tool we will now have, but it’s not going to replace bed nets and spraying insecticides,” said John Johnson with Doctors Without Borders. “This is not the vaccine that’s going to stop malaria.”

Johnson was not part of the WHO expert group that gave the Oxford vaccine the green light.

In 2021, WHO endorsed the first malaria vaccine in what it described as a “historic” effort to end the devastating toll the mosquito-transmitted disease has on Africa, home to most of the world’s estimated 200 million cases and 400,000 deaths.

But that vaccine, known as Mosquirix and made by GSK, is only about 30 percent effective, requires four doses and protection fades within months. WHO experts, however, said the data to date on the GSK and Oxforddeveloped vaccines does not show which one is more effective.

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, one of the GSK vaccine’s

biggest backers, stopped financially supporting Mosquirix directly in 2015, saying it was less effective than officials would like and that funding would be better used elsewhere. The foundation said it has continued helping with the vaccine rollout by supporting Gavi, a global vaccines alliance that is buying the GSK shots for distribution in poorer countries.

“The big difference with these two vaccines is access,” Johnson said, noting that only about a dozen countries are scheduled to get limited quantities of the GSK vaccine in the next few years.

GSK has said it can only produce about 15 million doses a year. The Serum Institute has said it could make up to 200 million doses of the Oxford vaccine a year.

Alister Craig, an emeritus professor at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, said he would recommend countries trying to get the GSK vaccine switch to the Oxford vaccine instead.

If the new vaccine is rolled out widely across Africa, it could dramatically reduce the amount of severe illness and deaths caused by malaria in a few years, Craig said.

Neither of the malaria vaccines stop transmission so immunization campaigns alone won’t be enough to stop epidemics. Efforts to curb the disease are also being complicated by increasing reports of resistance to the main drugs used to treat malaria and the spread of invasive mosquito species.

“You would be foolish to think that this vaccine is going to be the end of the malaria story,” Craig said.

In a separate decision, WHO’s expert group also authorized the dengue vaccine made by Takeda, which was previously approved by the European Union drug regulator.

There is no specific treatment for dengue, common in tropical Latin American and Asian countries. While most infections are mild, severe cases of the mosquito-spread disease can lead to internal bleeding, organ damage and death.

KYIV, Ukraine—Officials from the International Monetary Fund say they expect the United States will continue playing its key role in amassing multinational support that has helped keep Ukraine’s economy afloat during Russia’s invasion.

WORLD Bank President David Malpass speaks at a news conference during the World Bank/ IMF Spring Meetings at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) headquarters in Washington on April 13, 2023. IMF officials told reporters Wednesday in Kyiv that an announcement from US President Joe Biden of his commitment to supporting Ukraine is still the baseline assumption.

AP/JOSE LUIS MAGANA

MEMBERS of civic groups stage a rally to demand the stop of the Japan’s release of treated radioactive water from the damaged Fukushima nuclear power plant into ocean, in front of a building which houses Japanese Embassy, in Seoul, South Korea on Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023. The signs read “Oppose to release the second radioactive water into ocean.” AP/AHN YOUNG-JOON

How China shapes the content foreign audiences consume

THe United States last week warned of China’s global disinformation campaign that could undermine peace and stability. In a first-of-its-kind report, the State Department laid out Beijing’s information manipulation that includes the use of propaganda, disinformation, and censorship.

The Global Engagement Center (GEC), a State Department agency tasked with combating foreign propaganda and disinformation and which released the 58-page report dubbed “How the People’s Republic of China Seeks to Reshape the Global Information Environment,” warned that Beijing’s tactics and techniques for molding public opinion, such as buying content, creating fake personas to spread its message, and using repression to quash unfavorable accounts, could eventually sway how decisions are made around the world and undermine US interests.

“Unchecked, the Chinese government’s information manipulation could in many parts of the world diminish freedom to express views critical of Beijing,” said GEC head Jamie Rubin. “We don’t want to see an Orwellian mix of fact and fiction in our world. That will destroy the secure world of rules and rights that the United States and much of the world relies upon.”

“The PRC spends billions of dollars annually on foreign information manipulation efforts. Beijing uses false or biased information to promote positive views of the PRC and the Chinese Communist Party [CCP]. At the same time, the PRC suppresses critical information that contradicts its desired narratives on issues such as Taiwan, its human rights practices, the South China Sea, its domestic economy, and international economic engagement,” according to the report.

China’s approach to information manipulation includes leveraging propaganda and censorship, promoting digital authoritarianism, exploiting international organizations and bilateral partnerships, pairing cooptation and pressure, and exercising control of Chinese-language media, the report said.

Collectively, these five elements could enable Beijing to reshape the global information environment along multiple axes: Overt and covert influence over content and platforms, constraints on global freedom of expression, and promotion of digital authoritarianism, which “involves the use of digital infrastructure to repress freedom of expression, censor independent news, promote disinformation, and deny other human rights.”

“On issues it deems sensitive, the PRC has employed online and real-world intimidation to silence dissent and encourage self-censorship. The PRC has also taken measures against corporations in situations where they are perceived to have challenged its desired narratives on issues like Xinjiang. Within democratic countries, Beijing has taken advantage of open societies to take legal action to suppress critical voices. On WeChat, an application used by many Chinese-speaking communities outside the PRC, Beijing has exercised technical censorship and harassed individual content producers. Notably, data harvested by PRC corporations operating overseas have enabled Beijing to fine-tune global censorship by targeting specific individuals and organizations,” the report said.

Warning of the future impact of China’s disinformation campaign, the report said “the PRC’s global information manipulation is not simply a matter of public diplomacy —but a challenge to the integrity of the global information space. Unchecked, Beijing’s efforts could result in a future in which technology exported by the PRC, coopted local governments, and fear of Beijing’s direct retaliation produce a sharp contraction of global freedom of expression.”

China over the weekend criticized the report, calling it “in itself disinformation as it misrepresents facts and truth.” The Chinese foreign ministry said “it’s the US that invented the weaponizing of the global information space,” and called the US State Department “a source of disinformation and the command center of ‘perception warfare.’”

But US government officials said Beijing is advancing its agenda through coercion and lies. In one case outlined by the report, the Chinese government created a fake commentator named Yi Fan, whose pro-Beijing writings have appeared in publications in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

On social media, Beijing deploys armies of bots, trolls and coordinated campaigns to suppress critical content and boost pro-Beijing messages, the report said.

China’s propaganda and censorship degrade the quality of the international information environment. But this is the scariest part of the report: “China-made phones sold overseas have been found to come with censorship capabilities.”

Ensuring the rights and protection of Filipino seafarers worldwide

observing the terms and conditions of one’s employment contract and being diligent in the performance of one’s duties relating to the ship.

sonny M. angara

Better Days

Over a decade has passed since we first filed the bill pushing for the institutionalization of a Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. It was way back in July of 2007 when I was in my second term as the representative of the Province of Aurora when we filed the bill and since then, we have consistently filed this measure with the hope that this will finally be passed and our seafarers will receive the protection and benefits that they deserve as the backbone of the global maritime industry.

In 2022, there were close to half a million Filipino seafarers deployed, representing 25 percent of all seafarers around the world. With such a significant presence in the global maritime industry, we must ensure that the rights and privileges, as provided for under international conventions and local laws, are provided to them, no matter what the circumstance.

Just before Congress adjourned its sessions on September 29, 2023, we in the Senate approved the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers on third and final reading. The House of Representatives had already approved its own version of the measure on March 6, 2023 and now we will just await the convening of the bicameral conference committee to thresh out the differences between the two bills and come out with a unified version. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. certified the bill as urgent and with this we

are optimistic that we will finally see this long overdue bill become a law. The bill enumerates the rights of seafarers as follows: Right to just terms and conditions of work; Right to self-organization and to collective bargaining; Right to educational advancement and training at reasonable and affordable costs; Right to information; Right to information of a seafarer’s family or next of kin; Right to safe passage and safe travel; Right to consultation; Right against discrimination; Right to free legal representation; Right to immediate medical attention; Right to access to communication; Right to record of employment or certificate of employment; and the Right to fair treatment in the event of a maritime accident. For women in the maritime industry, the bill ensures that they are protected against acts of discrimination.

It states the duties of a seafarer, which includes complying with and

Except for cadets, the minimum age for employment or engagement to work onboard Philippine-registered ships operating domestically or internationally and onboard foreignregistered ships shall be 18 years old.

Seafarers are required to secure a medical certificate issued by a DOH-accredited medical facility after undergoing a pre-employment medical examination before they are allowed to start employment onboard a domestic or ocean-going ship. Only seafarers certified by appropriate government agencies according to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers will be allowed to work onboard a ship.

To protect the seafarers from possible exploitation, only duly licensed manning agencies shall be allowed to operate and engage in the recruitment and placement of seafarers, following existing laws, rules and regulations. A standard employment contract between the shipowner and the overseas seafarer shall be in writing and shall include information such as the duration of contract; maximum hours of work and minimum hours of rest; benefits; compensation and benefits for occupational injury, illness or death; separation and retirement pay.

Normal work hours shall be eight hours a day with one rest day per week and they are entitled to paid

annual leaves. Ships are required to have fair, effective and expeditious onboard and onshore grievance or complaint resolution mechanisms that are readily accessible.

As necessary, repatriation of seafarers shall be borne by the shipowners or the manning agencies. In cases of epidemic or pandemic, the shipowner or manning agency shall be responsible for the expenses of medical care, board and lodging for periods spent by seafarers in selfisolation or quarantine.

Seafarer welfare centers will be established by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in major crew-change ports to cater to the various needs of seafarers. The Department of Migrant Workers and MARINA will be required to maintain a registry of all seafarers, which will contain updated and relevant information to promote employment opportunities for seafarers, whether on board or ashore.

Seafarers deal with circumstances very different from mainstream or land-based OFWs and other sectors within the labor force. Once the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers becomes law, our men at sea will finally be ensured of treatment that befits their important status as the foundation of global shipping and logistics.

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

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

The country’s journey in minimum wage setting

1949, and Convention 99 (Minimum Wage Fixing Machinery) in 1951.

2) capacity to pay of enterprises, 3) comparable wages and incomes, and

MInIMUM wage started under the Commonwealth Act of 1936, which vested upon the judiciary the power to fix the minimum wage. Wage setting then became the remedy against industrial conflicts, and minimum wages were determined for farmers and tenants. Minimum wage fixing was suspended during the wartime in the 1940s but was resumed in 1951 under republic Act 602.

Before the concept of minimum wage fixing was introduced in the country in 1936, market forces determined wages. When supply is greater than the demand for labor, wages can be too low to sustain a household’s needs because workers compete over jobs, and employers can take advantage of the workers’

willingness to work at a lower wage. The Philippines had always been characterized by excess labor supply.

As a member of the International Labor Organization, the Philippines ratified the earlier conventions related to wages, namely, Convention 100 (Equal Remuneration) in 1928, Convention 95 (Protecting Wages) in

The Philippines did not ratify Convention 131 (Minimum Wage Fixing Convention of 1970), the conference that gave special attention to wage fixing in developing countries. Even if the Philippines did not ratify Convention 131 of 1970, the Philippines enforces the minimum wage law under the Labor Code of the Philippines (Articles 82-129, Book III), which was enacted on Labor Day, May 1, 1974, by the late President Ferdinand Marcos.

Moreover, the current minimum wage laws and provisions recognize the goals and intentions of Convention 131. This is manifested in the crafting and wording of the Wage Rationalization Act of 1989 (RA 6727), which is the minimum wage fixing mechanism now in place in the land. In consonance with the ILO criteria for minimum wage fixing, RA 6727 adopts the following internally accepted criteria: 1) the needs of workers and their families,

4) requirements of economic development. The specific data requirement for each criterion is obtained from the Philippine Statistics Authority.

The Philippines has adopted the tripartite and regional-level approach in its minimum wage setting for 33 years now since the amendment of the Labor Code of the Philippines through Republic Act 6727 in 1989. Since then, minimum wage setting has been devolved from the House of Representatives to the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards. The tripartite boards are seven-member bodies that determine the appropriate levels of wage adjustment taking off from the floor wage set by Congress.

The seven-member policy making tripartite board is composed of two representatives from the labor sector, two representatives from the management sector, and three from See “Eagle Watch,” A15

Rose Lacson Hancock Porteous: From housekeeper to heiress

Rose was hired by Gina Rinehart in 1983 as a housemaid to look after her aging and newly widowed father—iron ore mining magnate Lang hancock.

At that time, Rose was only 35 years old but came from two previous marriages: to Julian Teodoro and Patrick Kuan. She was born in Bacolod City in the Philippines to a relatively prominent military family and is believed to be a graduate of Maryknoll College.

Two years after her employment, Rose and Lang got involved romantically and were eventually married in Sydney on July 6, 1985. Lang’s daughter, Gina (Australia’s wealthiest woman today worth $26 billion) boycotted the wedding.

Because Rose was almost 40 years younger than Lang, she was portrayed to be an exploiter and a gold-digger. her husband showered her with copious money for her wardrobe, fancy cars and several real estate in the Sydney area of Double Bay.

Lang, entirely enamored by the young Rose, built her a lavish mansion called “Prix d’Amour” in Mosman Park in Perth in 1990. Some saw the estate as tacky and an obscene display of wealth. Still, it did not stop the couple from hosting parties, which cemented Rose’s new status as a socialite or for some, a caricature of new money within the Perth society. how Rose handled the media interest in her is quite interesting. She presented herself to be awash with money and openly discussed her over $40,000 allowance on clothes and expenditures of $600 to $800 a week on her poodles.

Canberra Times wrote, “during their high-profile marriage, Mrs. hancock purchased and destroyed a Bentley on the same day.” human interest stories are manna from heaven for reporters, and the housekeeper-to-heiress story of Rose hancock was difficult to ignore. Add to this her eccentricity, flamboyance and immoderate quotes, and you have an instant winner in her story.

Two years after the “Prix d’Amour” was built, Lang died. Three months later, Rose married William Porteous—a rich and much younger friend of Lang. Who does that? That is the curious thing about Rose. She does not care what others think and say. Surely with all the money at her disposal, she could have hired a public image consultant to soften a tarnished image, but it appears that she didn’t.

After Lang died, Gina Rinehart filed a case against Rose, thinking that her father’s death “was unlawful.” Thus begun a 10-year legal battle between the two women, which was featured prominently in

Eagle Watch . . .

continued from A14

the government sector. They are the seven signatories to the wage order issuances. The government representatives are the regional heads of the Department of Labor and employment (DOLe), National economic and Development Authority (NeDA), and Department of Trade and Indus-

Nostalgia for education

Tito Genova Valiente annoTaTions

Were our grandparents or, as the case may be, great-great grandparents better schooled than we are? A book titled Course of Study for Primary Grades with suggestions to teachers seemed to provide some answers. The said material was published in 1924 under the Bureau of Public Schools, particularly in its Curriculum Laboratory, a concept that appears to be current. In its Foreword, the authors spoke of the first time this kind of document came out was in 1915.

What was primary education during American rule?

Australian media.

Imagine two rich women costing the Australian legal system heaps of dough. Some called it the ultimate “bitchfest,” and it was wild. The media coverage was intense, and the readers loved the salacious details revealed in court.

One particular issue was Rose’s alleged use of the drug pethidine. In a Guardian story, Rose claimed she had “drug-induced lust.” She was quoted as saying to a tabloid: “I was too busy screwing everyone, the doctors, Willie, when I was on the pethidine for my back.”

Rose’s unfiltered and over-thetop answers kept reporters bemused and assured her of media coverage that ordinary mortals would likely avoid.

Perhaps the most painful thing to watch during the legal drama was when Rose’s daughter, Joana, said in a television interview that her mother deserved to be called a “gold-digger.”

It was around 2002 when finally the coroner said Lang hancock “died of natural cause”—thus concluding the decade-long legal battle between the daughter and the wife of the magnate. One thing that people would not want to learn from Rose hancock Porteous is the obvious self-belief on her beauty, brains and capabilities. Self-confidence is important, but too much of it can become laughable, kitschy and downright annoying. If you watch some of her videos on YouTube, one would think she is a rather unlikeable character. Try it.

In a 2002 interview with The Age, Rose said: “I can still go bra-less, you know,” to dispute rumors that the then 53-year-old underwent cosmetic surgery to maintain her figure.

Based on a Canberra Times article, Rose once gifted her aging husband, Lang, with a life-sized mannequin of herself for his 79th birthday. Talk about extreme self-love and selfadmiration.

The housekeeper-turned-heiress is now 75 years old, has since divorced her fourth husband William Porteous, reconciled with daughter Joana, demolished the 16-room mansion “Prix d’Amour” and built 10 properties on it for sale. She remains wealthy, eccentric, memorable and controversial.

So, what’s not to love about Rose h a ncock Porteous? While she is indeed strong-willed, maybe beautiful to some, articulate and perhaps smarter than other women, it appears Rose, despite her untold wealth, didn’t hire a PR/image consultant who could have helped her turn self-adulation into public admiration.

try (DTI). The regional director of the DOLe acts as the Board Chairperson, while the regional directors from the NeDA and DTI are the two Vice-Chairpersons.

The RTWPBs, together with the National Wages and Productivity Commission (its mother agency under DOLe) is still aiming at bringing the minimum wage as proximate to, if not above, the poverty threshold. Several regions in the country still

We all have wonderful stories about our grandparents who, finishing only Grade VI, could read newspapers, think critically, and engage in debates the level of articulation of which would be seen in university classrooms. Or of aunts who barely finished elementary grades but were reading english magazines and newspapers.

This material offering a systematic suggestion to teachers contains numerous revelations in terms of teaching methodology. For one, the table of contents shows rigor, not in the sense of rigidity, but in the consistency of offering cutting across the different grade levels. From Grade 1 to Grade IV, there are the common elements of oral, written, and conversation, the last one using lessons based on children’s experiences, nature study, stories suggested by pictures, manners and conduct. When the pupil reaches Grade IV, the conversational topic is added and this is about life and industries of the community.

Reading appears to be a central consideration in grade schools. An item on quantitative reading appears in the document. With two parts under it composed of readers as sources of materials and library as sources of materials, we can assume this part of the lesson is concerned with how many opportunities can be

created for the students to encourage them to read. There are other forms of reading mentioned in the table of contents—silent and oral reading as well as reading from the blackboard. Then finally, there is what is sorely missing now in this generation and the previous—the reading from books. There is almost a fastidious attempt to subject the pupil to varied positions and ways of reading. With the dynamics of oral reading introduced, another discipline appears and this is Phonics or Sound, where syllabication and accentuation are presented to grade schoolers. The guide says diacritical marks are to be taught and, finally, in almost a stroke of pedagogical genius, Phonics is correlated with Reading. To read is to listen to sounds.

Geography was taught in grade schools in the 1920s! In this course study, geography lessons include those that pertain to the Philippines and those of the world. What are geographical lessons without the maps? And how does one teach maps but asking the pupils to interpret maps.

Language is the next crucial element in this guide for grade school teachers. This aspect is most interesting knowing how we have always blamed the teaching of the en glish language—its use and dominant presence—as the factor that ruined the capacity of the Filipino to learn his national

language, Filipino. This theme can even be inverted to show that the reason for the cultural stasis in our midst is the fact that the en glish language has provided a seductive hindrance for Filipinos to be proud of his own language/s.

The paper says “for our primary pupils, we must give first consideration to our language problem.”

In that one sentence it says a lot— that in the 1920s, there was already a language problem. The solution seems to have been forgotten by the present-day experts. First, it says, we must consider the fact that in school the pupil is using the language differently from how he uses another language in his own cultural sphere.

To overcome this difficulty (language is different and the conversation that ensues from the same in his home and from the english language in the classroom) the guide says, we must provide as many possibilities as possible for the pupil to listen to english conversation. The language he uses and listens to becomes his tool. however, his mastery of another language must be compatible with the preservation of the social life of the home and the community, among many others. It is suggested that the teachers should observe

and learn about the child at home. The school should bring the pupil’s home and everything about it to the classroom and use all of it in the exercises to learn english. ex plicitly the instruction in the guide is so novel it startles—Formal schoolroom english should be avoided.

In the document, we learn about the rapid changes the schools during the American occupation were undergoing. On one page, there appears a comment that some years ago, the grade 1 pupils were aged 8 to 12; at that time of writing, the majority of the pupils entering grade school were less than 8 years old. The change necessitated shifts in activities, with a statement indicating how the teachers had opted to remove pupils from so-called home economics subjects, like weaving and sewing, into more language courses.

The first classes for Grade 1 to 4 pupils were acts of translating the children into the new language taught by the new colonizers. In the pre-war Philippines, translation became the tool for colonization. Ironically, it is through translation that an attempt for decolonization may be brilliantly achieved.

E-mail: titovaliente@yahoo.com

Climate destruction fuels growing sector of the US economy

By Tim Quinson

The cost of the climate crisis keeps going up.

I n terms of damage to the atmosphere and life on e a rth, this may seem obvious. But the overall price tag of global warming has long been the subject of debate.

Now, new data from Bloomberg Intelligence has put a number to the cost of burning fossil fuels. It’s averaged about $500 billion a year since 2016. That’s equal to about 2 percent of US gross domestic product, according to Bloomberg Intelligence senior e S G climate analyst Andrew John Stevenson. Those figures represent the combined expenses from property damages, power outages, government spending and construction-surge inflation at the state level, he says.

For broader context, the estimated financial damages related to global warming have totaled almost $7 trillion over the past 30 years, Stevenson says. And this tally excludes things like lost wages tied to wildfires or extreme heat, as well as rising property-insurance premiums.

While certainly a sober reminder of the destruction wreaked by humanity, Stevenson notes there’s another way to look at the financial impact of the climate crisis. “Climate-related spending has made

have minimum wages that fall short of the poverty threshold (NWPC, 2012).

The most recent wage reforms formulated within the ambit of Republic Act 6727 in 2012 is the two-tiered wage system (TTWS).

This is a layered pay scheme where workers will receive the mandatory first tier and the voluntary second tier. It is composed of the part fixed (mandatory minimum wage) and

up 32 percent of GDP growth since 2016,” he says. Climate events are “a growing, visible part of the US economy, creating tailwinds for a few companies.”  Stevenson acknowledges, of course, that such disasters create “headwinds for the overwhelming majority of individuals, companies and the government.”

Stevenson has introduced what he calls the BI Climate Damages Tracker, to help investors calculate the economic impact—in either direction— of severe weather. everything from the emergence of new businesses and changes in household spending to consumer credit and insurance risks.

The tracker is updated monthly with government and insurance data to estimate how the climate crisis is affecting public and private sector spending.

Investors have been diverting more funds to companies such as Aon Plc, Quanta Services Inc. and home Depot Inc. because they’re among those that help businesses and homeowners clean up after the last storm and prepare for the next one, Stevenson says.

The analyst tracks storms that cause damages of less than $10 billion, as well as those that cost more than $10 billion. It’s the smaller events that have historically forced insurers to retain more losses on

part performance-based (voluntary productivity-based incentives) pay. The first tier, the mandatory and fixed minimum wage is intended to be a family wage for a household size ranging from four to five, under the assumption of more than one minimum wage earner per family. This shall be pegged against the region’s poverty threshold. The Regional Boards shall issue Wage Orders for this mandatory floor

For broader context, the estimated financial damages related to global warming have totaled almost $7 trillion over the past 30 years, Stevenson says. And this tally excludes things like lost wages tied to wildfires or extreme heat, as well as rising property-insurance premiums.

their balance sheets, Stevenson says. The three states that have traditionally been hit the hardest in that regard are Texas, Florida and Louisiana.

Fallout from climate events tends to be highly inflationary at both the local and national levels, as goods and services are diverted to meet the immediate needs of affected areas, Stevenson says. The BI Repair Sector includes 37 companies that are focused on storage, rentals, waste removal, building products, materials and construction and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (hVAC) services.

The average stock in the group, which includes home Depot and Waste Management Inc., outperformed an equal-weighted S&P 500 by 96 percent on “a total-return, beta-neutral basis” over the past 10 years, Stevenson says.

For example, shares of Advanced Drainage Systems Inc. al-

wage covering the minimum wage earners only. The second tier shall be voluntary on the part of management and can be negotiated between and among the workers and employers based on productivity and profitability of businesses. The voluntary implementation will be at the firm level, and the additional pay will only become binding and mandatory once a mutual agreement has been forged by

most quadrupled since the first half of 2020 at the same time the company’s revenue almost doubled, partly due to the rising amount of flooding near rivers and coastal cities. Advanced Drainage makes storm-water management and drainage systems.

And then there’s the BI Prepare Sector, which includes 40 companies involved in mitigating risks related to supply-chain disruption, heat stress, wildfire pollution and infrastructure planning. This group, which includes Aon, MSA Safety Inc. and Dycom Industries Inc., exceeded the equalweighted S&P 500 by 107 percent in the same 10-year period, according to the analyst’s calculations. Dycom is a standout, Stevenson says. The company provides engineering, design and planning services to ensure that critical infrastructure can perform under all conditions.

Other surprising beneficiaries of a warming planet are “installment” lenders like World Acceptance Corp. and FirstCash holdings Inc., Stevenson says. Climate events cause significant short-term, highcost spending that are not included in the budgets of most Americans.

The result is people turn to “alternative lenders” to avoid larger future bills, he says. “After all, the money has to come from somewhere.” Bloomberg

both labor and management on the amount, duration, and mode of payment of incentives.

The implementation of the minimum wage law set by the Regional Boards is lodged to the Department of Labor and employment of each geographic region in the country.

From a $250-a-week housekeeper to one of Australia’s wealthiest women, what’s not to like about rose Lacson Hancock Porteous?

Anti-inflation panel pitches extending low tariffs on food

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

THE state's inter-agency council on inflation has proposed to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. the extension of the lower tariff rates on rice, pork and corn to combat the quickening increase in food prices, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

T he disclosure of the proposal made by the Inter-Agency Committee on Inflation and Market Outlook (IAC-IMO) was made by the PCO on Thursday after the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that inflation in September hastened to 6.1 percent.

During the last IAC-IMO meeting on October 3, 2023, the committee recommended extending the lower Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rate on rice under Executive Order (EO) No. 10,” the PCO said in a press release.

T he PCO said Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan proposed that the lower tariff rate of 35 percent on rice be extended until December 2024, but subject to a mid-year review by July 2024.

Q uoting Balisacan, the PCO added that the extension of lower rice tariffs must be “complemented” by more transparent and predictable issuance of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance (SPS-IC) for rice and all commodities.

T he PCO revealed that the Marcos administration is “revisiting” the proposal by the economic managers and certain quarters of the private sector to further reduce the tariffs on rice.

The administration is also considering revisiting the proposal to temporarily lower rice tariffs regardless of origin if the global price of rice continues to rise due to the impacts of El Niño and rice export bans among key rice-exporting countries, resulting in a need for a more robust response to stabilize

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

LAWMAKERS see inflation, which peaked in September, normalizing soon, but said the government still needs to mitigate risks.

House Committee on Ways and Means Chairman Joey Sarte Salceda traced the reported year-onyear inflation rate of 6.1 percent in September to oil and rice price shocks during the month, but said this is expected to dissipate in the October figures with the sharp decline in global oil prices during the end of September, and compliance with the rice price ceiling imposed by the President.

“ The September inflation figure is due almost entirely to rice price spikes and the global oil price spike. The PSA collects data on the first five days of the month and on the 15-17th days, so it captured a lot of the speculative rise in global oil prices but not the sharp declines that followed September 27,” he said.

So, this is a snapshot of the past, and we have to analyze it in that light. The weeks after data collected were entirely better, and we’ll catch that next month,” Salceda added.

I n other words, Salceda said this is probably the worst inflation rate the country will record for the “ber months, and it gets better from here.”

S alceda said the estimates he released to fund managers last month were actually 6.2 percent, using modeling he has used since the 1990s.

“ This inflation is imported. Rice prices went up 17.9 percent yearon-year in September, but world prices of rice also sharply declined on September 27 and are now at their August lows,” he added.

“ So, the September figures also do not capture the sudden decline in world prices. Correctly, President Marcos has also already lifted the rice price cap under EO 39, as both global and local conditions have since become more manageable,” Salceda said.

local prices,” it said.

M arcos issued EO 10 earlier this year, extending until the end of December the lower tariff rates on rice, pork and corn. Marcos explained that extending the lower tariff rates on the concerned commodities was part of his administration’s anti-inflation measures.

Under EO 10, rice tariffs would be at 35 percent while pork imports would be levied with 15 percent for in-quota volume and 25 percent for out-quota volume. The tariff for corn was lowered to 5 percent (inquota) and 15 percent (out-quota) from its regular rates of 35 percent and 50 percent, respectively.

Corn tariffs

IN a related development, the Philippine Association of Feed Millers (Pafmi) backed the extension of lower corn tariffs, arguing that it would help fulfill Marcos’s directive of “strengthening and supporting local production of meat, eggs and fish.”

With corn as the most preferred feed energy source, it is crucial that we ensure that the demands of the industry are met so we can produce quality meat, poultry, and eggs for Filipino consumers at affordable prices. One of the ways we

can achieve this is by keeping the tariffs low and allowing importers to help fill our supply gaps,” Pafmi President Edwin Mapanao said.

Focusing on making yellow corn more widely available, affordable, and accessible will help the food value chain in our country grow more sustainably and the reduction of tariffs will not have any adverse effects on local corn farmers since as long as the quality of domestically produced yellow corn adheres to the prescribed standards, feed millers will continue to prioritize locally sourced produce,” Mapanao added.

PAFMI said the country’s yellow corn production remains insufficient to meet the demand of the local feed milling industry.

C iting the Department of Agriculture data, Pafmi said 84 percent of the country’s 7 million metric tons (MMT) of output goes to the feed milling sector. However, the industry’s yellow corn requirement is pegged at nearly 9.5 MMT, according to Pafmi.

While the Philippines is 64 percent corn-sufficient, the country still needs the help of importation to support the three million metric ton deficit,” the group said.

Check e-visa policy, focus

H e also noted a sharp decline in the sugar inflation rate as the milling season started in September.

“ Sugar inflation is back in the single digits, most likely due to the start of the milling season. I expect better prices in the October and November inflation figures, as milling also peaks during that period,” he said.

“ I am also pleased with the corn and meat figures. Corn is down to 1.6 percent inflation, and meat, its most correlated food product, is down to 1.6 percent inflation. As I frequently emphasize, we have a future in these areas. Maybe even better prospects, long-term, than the rice industry. Combined, it’s a bigger share of the economy anyway,” he added.

D espite the optimistic predictions for inflation in October and beyond, Salceda said that, “we still need to mitigate risks.”

I think the risk of further oil spikes has come to pass. Weak demand has undercut the efforts of OPEC countries to boost prices with supply cuts. So, expect oil to be in the neighborhood of just 70 to 80 USD per barrel over the coming weeks,” he added.

Still, “food prices still need to be watched out for, especially because the ber months typically tend to be bonus season, which is naturally inflationary,” he said.

Enverga’s take HOUSE Committee on Agriculture and Food Mark Enverga expressed optimism inflation had peaked in September, expecting prices of all major agricultural products to soon decline.

Enverga based his optimism to the upcoming harvest season and the transformative agricultural initiatives implemented by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the concurrent Agriculture Secretary.

“ We believe that inflation has peaked, and we expect it to be on a downward trend because of the forthcoming harvest season. As the earth yields its bounty, we anticipate a steady decline in inflation rates,” Enverga stated.

on

Indians –Sen. Nancy

THE government should pilottest its electronic visa (e-visa) platform service with India instead of China, in the light of ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, and the possible abuse of entry visas into the country, according to Sen. Nancy Binay.

A t the Senate Committee Finance (Subcommittee “J”) hearing on the budgets of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and its attached agencies, Committee chair Binay urged Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco to “prioritize India first in light of our current situation, since that market is also large, right? Maybe it’s better that India be the pilot first, considering we haven’t gotten that market.”

D OT data showed 52,867 tourists from India arrived between January and September 29, making it the 12th source market for tourists this year. Prior to the pandemic, India was the 11th source market for tourists with arrivals having reached 134,963, an 11.43-percent increase from the arrivals in 2018.

Overstaying Chinese

BINAY also suggested that DOT coordinate with national intelligence agencies on current security concerns regarding Chinese travelers to Manila. “There have been many Chinese who have entered the country using tourist visas, then they overstayed. Some of them have become involved in illegal activities. What security measures would be implemented the mistakes implemented to get the Chinese market?” she asked.

A nd, with the current diplomatic tensions between the Philippines and China, “Is it prudent for us to get that market? We’ve survived this year without the Chinese market,” she noted, adding, “Maybe we really need to get feedback from the National Security Council or Nica (National Intelligence Coordinating Agency) if they really do have the capability to check these people to whom we are issuing e-visas.” Chinese maritime forces have recently stepped up the harassment of Filipino fishermen and the Philippine Coast Guard in the West Philippine Sea. Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo

Inflation normalizing soon, but govt must mitigate risks–solons

PEZA AND ROTARIANS Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Director General Tereso

Panga receives a plaque of appreciation from the Rotary Club of Manila, through its President Rafael M. Alunan III (left) and District Governor Jackie Rodriguez, for guesting at its regular weekly meeting on Thursday, October 5, at Manila Polo Club in Makati City. NONOY LACZA

Companies

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Friday, October 6, 2023

‘New sustainability rules will reflect global developments’

By VG Cabuag

t h e agency issued for public comment the draft memorandum circular on the revised s r guidelines, seeking to update current rules on sustainability reporting provided under s e C Memorandum Circular No. 4, s e ries of 2019.

“In keeping with the commitment to be at the forefront of promoting good corporate governance, and aligned with international best practices, the s e C

c onsiders it imperative to keep s r regulations responsive to latest global developments,” s e C C hairman e m ilio B. a q uino said. t h e further development of the s r framework in the country contributes to the creation of a green and blue economy, as well as the establishment of sustainable communities.”

Under the revised guidelines, listed firms will be mandated to

submit sustainability reports in two formats—the s r Narrative and the sustainability report form.

For the s r narrative, a listed firm will submit a narrative report following the format outlined in MC 4, which will be submitted in conjunction with the company’s annual report.

Meanwhile, listed firms will be required to submit their duly answered s u r e Form through the s e C e l ectronic Filing and s u bmission to ol (eFast ). Its template comprises three major sections: sustainability and climate-related opportunities and risks exposures; cross-industry standard metrics; and industry-specific metrics.

s e parate guidelines for industry-specific metrics which largely considered the existing Philippine s t andard Industrial Classification will be released later, the s e C said.

t h e said form aims to elevate

the quality of sustainability reporting and ensure the consistency of non-financial information submitted by listed firms.

t h e revised guidelines consider the latest global advancements in sustainability reporting frameworks, notably the IF r s s 1 on General r e quirements for Disclosure of s u stainabilityrelated Financial Information and IF r s s 2 on Climate-related Disclosures. Both of these are fully aligned with the recommendations of the ta sk Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures, the s e C said.

t h e s e C institutionalized sustainability reporting among corporations in 2019 through MC 4, which mandated listed firms to submit sustainability reports on a comply or explain approach. t h is allowed listed firms to disclose corporate sustainability data, when available, and provide explanations for items where there are none.

Telstra opens service hub in Manila

Telstra International announced on t h ursday the opening of the new te lstra s e curity s e rvice Center ( t ss C ) in Manila to meet the growing cybersecurity needs of firms not only in the Philippines but also in other countries.

a c cording to research firm

IDC, global investments in hardware, software and services related to cyber security are projected to reach almost $300 billion in 2026 on the back of the constant threat of online attacks, the demands of providing a secure hy-

brid work environment, and the need to meet data privacy and governance requirements.

“Customers are demanding real-time and effective cyber protection to get ahead of an increasingly complex cyber security environment. a s the trusted technology partner to corporates outside of a u stralia, te lstra International is committed to offering robust security protection to our customers,” said a l an Coburn, cyber security technology lead of te lstra International. te lstra’s newest facility in the

country will work as one with its international counterpart in the United Kingdom. t h is is aimed at improving and widening the delivery of its managed cyber security services with its 24/7/365 follow-the-sun coverage model.

Offering a suite of services, the t ss C will help customers strengthen their “protection posture” to avoid, detect, analyze and respond to and address online security incidents, as well as stay ahead of potential risks.

Complementing the hub is the consulting expertise of te lstra

Purple, giving support to customers through threat assessment, advisory, compliance and assurance. “ e v ery part of this center has been designed to let us deliver advanced cyber security services to our customers,” Coburn said.

a t present, the multinational telecommunications and technology company has more than 3,000 employees based in over 35 countries outside of a u stralia, providing services to thousands of business, government, carrier and over-the-top (O t t ) customers. Roderick L. Abad

RAC bullish on growth prospects

S&P Global r atings warned of the risk of company defaults in emerging markets ( e M s), as firms struggle to stomach higher funding costs.

Debt maturities in eMs, excluding China, will average $47 billion from 2024 to 2027, compared with $20 billion this year, according to data obtained from s&P.

“Issuer competition for liquidity will be fierce in the next two years,” s&P analysts led by el ijah Oliverosrosen wrote in a report published on Wednesday. “It is highly unlikely that issuers will wait until 2025 to refinance, and they will probably tap the market in 2024 with interest rates still high. t hese conditions could be unsustainable for many issuers, leading to defaults and bankruptcies.”

Higher-for-longer interest rates, slowing global growth and a strong dollar will put more pressure on the weakest firms. l atin a merica is the pressure point in eMs, with the region accounting for 13 of the 14 corporate defaults as of august, s& P said in september.

average borrowing costs for highyield eM issuers in dollars climbed to their highest since November 2022 this week at about 11.8 percent, according to a Bloomberg index. Bloomberg News

ROBIN s O N s a p pliances Corp. ( r a C ), a subsidiary of publicly listed r o binsons r e tail Holdings Inc., is confident of hitting its growth target for its newly renovated outlet at the lower ground level of r o binsons Place Magnolia in Quezon City.

“ t h e old store opened last 2012. Because we were able to get additional space from the mall, this is actually our relaunching after maybe around three months of renovation,” r aC a ssistant Vice President for Operations a nthony

P. Caliwag told the BusinessMirror on the sidelines of the opening of the renovated store.

“It’s a ‘deliberate’ opening for us because we would like to cater to our customers’ [needs], especially this October, November and December. Based on historical trend, the buying potential of the customers is really high [during these months] because they have additional money to use in order to buy their dream or preferred appliances.”

e x pecting a positive market response, Caliwag said r a C is optimistic of growing sales by as much as 40 percent in the fourth quarter, which will enable the branch to hit its full-year sales growth goal of 30 percent.

t h e r a C official said the store will get a boost from more global brands, the increased assort-

ments of premium home equipment and gadgets, plus the overall improved shopping experience in its 800-square meter branch.

“It now has a modern design, well-lighted [ambience],” Caliwag said. “It’s really aligned [with the trend] because the appliances right now are not anymore small. Unlike before, you can only buy around 30 to 43 inches t Vs, right now, you are looking at around 55 or 98 inches t Vs. We did not carry that wide range of appliances previously. But right now, because we have the luxury of the space, we can all carry them.”

Caliwag said the renovated store in r o binsons Magnolia befits its patrons, who mostly reside in exclusive subdivisions and high-end condominiums in the area.

“In this particular place, r o binsons Place Magnolia, the com-

munities here are from Classes a and B. a f ter the pandemic, we see a significant improvement in the buying preference of our customers,” he said.

“ t h ey’ve already started to change their old models, particularly because of the newer technology like the inverter technology, more particularly for the refrigerators and air conditioners. s o we align with the types of community here via the most premium items that we think they would prefer.”

Given the customers’ priorities, r a C expects that t V (45 percent), air conditioners (20 percent) and refrigerators (20 percent) will remain as the bestsellers of the relaunched outlet. t h e remaining 15 percent of sales will come from other categories.

r a C said the store will multiply by five the Go r e wards points earned by customers who will purchase items during its monthlong promo.

Caliwag also disclosed that the company will also relaunch the store in r o binsons Galleria on October 13, to be followed by the opening of two new stores, such as r o binsons a p pliances Digital that sells gadgets in a n tipolo and r o binsons a p pliances in Centrio Mall in Cagayan de Oro by end of this year.

r a C is planning to open a store in Gateway Mall and in Vermosa in Cavite next year. Roderick L. Abad

B1

MPH invests in Antipolo hospital

Metr O Pacific Health (MPH), the largest group of private hospitals in the Philippines, announced its latest venture, a 94.2-percent investment share in a n tipolo Doctors Inc., the owner and operator of a n tipolo Doctors Hospital ( a D H).

s i tuated along Manuel l Quezon e x tension, a n tipolo, r i zal, a D H is a l e vel 2-ready facility with 77 beds. s i nce its foundation in 1992 by an enterprising group of 11 doctor-founders, a DH has maintained a record of medical proficiency. While primarily serving the healthcare needs of a ntipolo City, the hospital’s reach spans various regions in r i zal Province such as ta ytay, te resa, and a n gono, driven by a pool of over 200 physicians.

t h is acquisition marks MPH’s inaugural hospital in r i zal, the country’s most densely populated province.

“By expanding its presence to r i zal, MPH not only brings toptier medical services closer to the province’s residents but also continues its journey of nation-building through health,” the company said in a statement.

“a d dressing the healthcare gaps in such a vital region amplifies MPH’s dedication to fortify the nation’s health landscape. a s t he province continues to grow and evolve, MPH is right there alongside it, ensuring quality medical care is within reach of every resident.”

t h e company noted that a D H

also holds “potential golden avenues for growth.” Plans are already underway for an expansive renovation of its e m ergency r o om and Operating r o oms, and the introduction of a new Out-Patient Care Center.

“With these envisioned expansions and improvements, a D H will be able to increase its capacity to serve r i zal’s burgeoning population.”

t h is recent investment makes a D H the 22nd hospital under the Metro Pacific Health umbrella. MPH said this solidifies its position as the largest group of private hospitals in the country, including the likes of Makati Medical Center, a s ian Hospital and Medical Center, Cardinal s a ntos Medical Center, r i verside Medical Center, and Davao Doctors Hospital.

t h e MPH network consists of 26 outpatient care centers, 2 allied health colleges, and its centralized laboratory, Medi l i nx l a boratory.

“Guided by a compass that points towards sustainability, accessibility, and affordability, Metro Pacific Health remains unyielding in its commitment to deliver excellent and compassionate healthcare services to the Filipino populace,” said a u gusto P. Palisoc Jr., Vice Chairman and President of Metro Pacific Health.

“We will continue to expand so we can reach out and address the healthcare needs of Filipinos all across the country, and this latest inclusion is further testament to that commitment.”

The Securities and exchange Commission (SeC) on Thursday said it is revising the Sustainability Reporting (SR) Guidelines for publicly listed companies to reflect the latest developments in global sustainability frameworks.

DOF still ‘seriously studying’ tax hikes

By Butch Fernandez @butchfBM

DESPITE pitching it earlier as a vital cog in its revenuesharing program, the Department of Finance is still “seriously studying” hiking the current tax on sugary beverages and impose a new tax on salty foods or “junk” food.

Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno gave the assurance to Senator Rafael “Raffy” T. Tulfo, who pointed out to him the “anti-poor” impact of proposed salt-and-sugar tax.

Tulfo asked Diokno about the status of the tax proposal at the hearing this week on the 2024 budget of DOF and its attached agencies. The DOF chief replied that while the proposal remains on the table, it is still under “serious study” after various sectors raised a howl about its implications.

Tulfo told Diokno that while junk food may seem unhealthy in the eyes of “steak-eating” affluent people, what is called “chichirya” is actually a crucial part of the diet of many poor people, who, he said, often buy salty snacks as “ulam” (viand) to go with their rice. An ill-considered tax could, therefore, end up hurting the poor consumers, besides denting the bottomline of manufacturers and retailers and, thus, leave government with a self-defeating scenario as declining demand makes it unable to reach the revenue target it has set.

Earlier, business groups, including one led by Jose Maria “Joey” A. Concepcion and the Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines, cautioned economic managers against rushing the salt-and-sugar tax.

According to Concepcion, many small businessmen, especially in the provinces, would be adversely impacted by such taxes. He urged government to “junk” the junk food tax proposal.

The DOF has been pushing to increase the rate for sugar-sweetened beverages under Republic Act 10963, or the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (Train) law, to P12 per liter, regardless of the type of sweetener used. The higher, singletier rate would replace the current two-tier setup that depends on the type of sweetener.

Per DOF estimates, government can draw P53.7 billion in the first year of implementation, in 2025, by expanding the sugar tax.

In addition, the DOF eyes tax on salty snacks, citing the rising incidence of “lifestyle” diseases, especially cardiovascular and metabolic disorders.

PHL secures $300M loan from ADB

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

will ensure government assistance can reach people faster during crises and emergencies; help raise climate resilience of farmers and micro, small, and medium-scale businesses through expanded insurance; and promote improved financial stability,” Hattel explained.

The new loan builds on ADB assistance provided under the IFDP Subprogram 1 and Subprogram 2 delivered in October 2018 and August 2020, respectively.

the population by income to 34 percent in 2021 from 18 percent in 2017.

The government wants to raise the number of Filipinos holding an account with financial institutions or mobile money providers to 70 percent by 2024, aided by streamlined requirements with the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys).

In a statement, ADB said it has approved $300 million loan to finance the “Inclusive Finance Development Program (IFDP)-Subprogram 3,” which aims to expand Filipinos’ access to financial services, particularly the vulnerable segment of the population, and to promote economic growth. The program aims to help widen the digital-financing ecosystem and support efforts to increase the capacity of financial service providers, including rural banks and nonbank financial institutions, to offer qual-

ity products and services accessible through various delivery channels.

“Through this loan, [the] ADB is expanding its partnership with the Philippines in ensuring all Filipinos will have access to financial products and services, including via digital platforms, to help improve their lives and livelihoods,” said ADB Senior Financial Sector Specialist Kelly Hattel.

“Considering the significant impact of climate change on the vulnerable segments of the population, the reform actions supported by the loan

Reforms pursued under this loan will complement other ADB programs in the Philippines, such as the “Competitive and Inclusive Agriculture Development Program-Subprogram 2” approved in January 2023.

According to the 2021 Global Findex Database, the number of Filipino adults holding an account with a financial institution or mobile money provider has risen from 34 percent of the population in 2017 to 51 percent 2021.

Hastened by the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns, the Philippines nearly doubled the number of financial institution or mobile money accounts for the bottom 40 percent of

Market slowdown to hit Insular Life’s bottomline

By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

THE Insular Life Assurance Co.

Ltd. (Insular Life) said its bottomline would be below the P5.2 billion it posted last year due to “growth” investments amid market slowdown.

Insular Life officials explained that it would be challenging to “replicate” the net income posted by the insurance firm last year due to present market conditions.

Nonetheless, the officials noted that they would be able to hit or even exceed their internal net income target for 2023.

“In terms of net income that will be very difficult to replicate,” Insular Life President and CEO Raoul Antonio E. Littaua said in a news briefing last Thursday. “Basically, in terms of investments, equities are also down; as you all know, the stock market has been down for quite a while.”

“Now that’s going to be difficult to replicate [the P5.2 billion],” Littaua added.

The insurance firm’s consolidated net income last year rose by more than a third to P5.2 billion from P3.87 billion in 2021, which it attributed to “strong” consumer spending fueled by the reopening of the country’s economic post-Covid-19 pandemic.

Based on documents published by Insular Life on its website, the insurer’s consolidated net income last year was the highest in at least 22 years or since 2006.

Elation

STILL, Insular Life Chief Transformation Officer Efren C. Caringal Jr. pointed out that the firm would “exceed” its “planned income for the year.”

“One of the drivers for the lower net income is because we are investing heavily on growth. Generally, at the start of the product there would be higher distribution costs, etc. And then the profit will emerge over the later period,” Caringal explained.

“So when you see significant growth, it means we’re investing heavily. Therefore, our short term profits will be lower. But the long term profitability is going to be good - it will be realized over time,” Caringal added, noting that there were “one-off items last year” that contributed to the firm’s higher net income.

The Insular Life executives disclosed that the firm continues to grow its new business annualized premium equivalent (NBAPE) this year despite the country’s elevated inflation.

The insurance firm said its NBAPE more than doubled to P1.706 billion in the first half from about P751.5 million last year. Insular Life saw its NBAPE for the full year of 2022 growing by an annualized rate of 43 percent to P1.9 billion.

“So, that one [NBAPE],… I think we will end the year almost double what we did,” Littaua said.

“We’re very happy about what we are seeing in our new business,” Caringal added.

Inflation

CARINGAL further said the year-onyear growth of NBAPE insulated the insurer’s client base from inflation.

“We are not seeing [detrimental impact] in our portfolio. We are seeing growth even in the lower-middle income class because they need it more due to [market] uncertainty,” he said.

Caringal added the insurer is leveraging the high interest rate to offer products with higher yields.

“Insurers are able to introduce much higher-yielding investment products and that is where we see a significant growth or at least the last year for us,” he added. “We offer endowment products not just [for] pureprotection benefits but we are able to give higher yields [and] higher coupons because of the higher interest rate.”

Nonetheless, Caringal noted that the faster inflation rate does have a “possible” impact on certain income segments since insurance products are not in the top priority of consumers. The faster inflation would also trim Filipinos’ savings in general, he added.

“Still, the reality in the Philippines is that we have a low-insurance penetration rate so there is really room [for us] to grow. It is a matter of increasing Filipinos’ financial literacy,” he said.

“For me, the more pressing need is to protect [savings]. Your dollar today will not have the same foreign exchange in the future. So that is the value of insurance—not just to provide protection but to give you a very good savings mechanism,” Caringal added.

GoTyme Bank to launch several lending products

By VG Cabuag @villygc

GOTYME Bank Corp. is set to launch its lending product as its executives also expect to end the year with two million customers.

Albert Raymund O. Tinio, the company’s co-CEO, said in a news briefing last Thursday that the payment system operator will offer lending for small-scale and medium-sized enterprises. Tinion added GoTyme will also offer salary loans, first for employees of JG Summit Holdings Inc. before offering it to the public.

The company will also offer a “buy-now, pay later” scheme, just

like what Neuroncredit Financing Co. Inc. (doing business as Atome Philippines) is doing. That product still needs approval from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, according to Tinio.

According to CEO Nathaniel Clarke, GoTyme Bank would be launching in November its first merchant-lending product, in partnership with a fintech company.

“We have something planned for the next year around credit; consumer credit that we haven’t announced yet,” Clarke said adding “there’s basically three lending products coming in the next nine months.”

Clarke, the founding member of

Singapore’s digital bank Tyme Group, said they hope to reach 2 million customers by year end, after just more than a year of starting operations in the Philippines. GoTyme Bank, a partnership between the Gokongwei group and the Tyme Group, started its operations in October 2022.

Clarke said that the company is now 11th-top Instapay platform by volume, will become seventh in active debit cards according to Euromonitor International Ltd. by yearend and fourth-largest user-based application as of July according to Data.Ai Inc.

“So while we’re not yet the largest retail bank in the country, our

As of September 1, the government has registered nearly 88 percent of the population under PhilSys after launching the program in 2020 amid the pandemic, as part of efforts to widen financial inclusion in the country.

The ADB noted that key reforms pursued by the government to eliminate barriers to access financial services and mainstream gender across its policies include updating and providing action plans for the “National Strategy for Financial Inclusion 2022–2028.”

The Philippines also passed and implemented key legislation on financial consumer protection under Republic Act (RA) 11765 (Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Law), and rules encouraging digital platforms to provide

Laser focus

Ioften hear the term “laser focus” when business leaders talk about their approach to meet their objectives, so I did some research.

The term originated from the field of physics, specifically in the development and application of lasers. The word “laser” is an acronym for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.” Unlike conventional light sources that emit light in multiple directions, a laser beam travels in a straight line with minimal divergence, covering great distances without significant loss of intensity.

Metaphorically, the term “laser focus” has begun to be used in the late 20th century to describe the concentrated and intense dedication individuals and organizations exhibit when pursuing their goals. Since then, the term has become a common phrase used across various fields, from business and personal development to sports and goal setting.

Associations have limited resources and competing priorities, so it is essential for them to adopt a laser-focused approach to maximize their impact. By concentrating efforts on critical areas, associations can efficiently allocate resources and drive significant progress in their pursuit of their mission, as follows:

financing to agriculture value chain members in support of RA 11901, or the “Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development Financing Enhancement” law of 2022. The government also implemented a regulatory sandbox framework for financial solutions to test new business models and facilitate the adoption of innovative technology approaches.

In terms of development partners, the ADB emerged as the leading provider of ODA in the country in 2022, surpassing Japan which was the country’s top creditor for the preceding seven consecutive years.

The ODA provided by ADB accounts for a 33.47 percent share or $10.85 billion of the active ODA portfolio in 2022. ADB has also taken the lead in terms of new commitments in 2022, with a total of $2.51 billion composed of $2.5 billion for four loans and $10.2 million for seven grants.

Meanwhile, Japan secured the second spot with 30.75 percent worth $9.96 billion, followed by WB with $6.86 billion; China, $0.98 billion; and Korea, $0.91 billion.

progress has been astounding,” he said adding that the firm now has more than 1.35 million customers in under a year.

“We’re growing it over 200,000 new customers a month; and every month that’s actually getting faster,” Clarke said.

He added they are laser-focused on their mission of providing “nextlevel banking to all Filipinos so they can unlock their financial potential.”

Clarke said the firm vows “that in in every customer touchpoint, a helpful human will be there for you.”

“This will allow us to deliver the best customer service in the banking industry,” he added.

1. Identify clear objectives. Associations need to consider setting specific, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. Whether it’s increasing membership engagement, improving member benefits, or advocating for policy changes, welldefined objectives provide a sense of direction and purpose. Avoiding distractions and side projects that do not align with the primary objectives allows associations to channel their energy into activities that yield tangible results.

2. Streamline processes and workflows. Associations can regularly assess their operational efficiency and identify areas where improvements can be made. Automating repetitive tasks, optimizing communication channels, and embracing technology can free up valuable time and resources that can be redirected towards critical initiatives. In addition, delegating responsibilities based on individual strengths and expertise can enhance productivity

and ensure that the right people are focused on the right tasks.

3. Engage members and other stakeholders. Associations can actively engage members in the decision making process. By seeking input and feedback from key stakeholders, i.e., board members, staff, and members, associations gain valuable insights into their needs and priorities. Engaging members also cultivates a sense of ownership and loyalty to the association’s mission. Members who feel invested in the association’s success are more likely to actively support its initiatives, leading to increased participation and achievement of goals.

4. Monitor progress and adapt. Regularly tracking key performance indicators allows the association to identify areas of success and areas that need improvement. Associations need to prepare to adapt and pivot when necessary. In a rapidly changing environment, the ability to reassess strategies and adjust course is vital. Being nimble and responsive to emerging opportunities and challenges ensures that the association remains on track to achieve its goals.

5. Celebrate success and learn from failure. Acknowledging the efforts of individuals and teams cultivates a sense of accomplishment and motivates continued focus on the mission. Similarly, associations can view failures or setbacks as learning opportunities. Analyzing what went wrong and why, provides valuable insights that can inform future decision making. A growth mindset that embraces learning from mistakes helps the association evolve and improve over time.

Octavio Peralta is currently the executive director of the Global Compact Network Philippines and founder and volunteer CEO of the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives (PCAAE), the “association of associations.” The PCAAE will hold its 11th Associations Summit at the PICC on December 6, 2023. E-mail: bobby@pcaae.org.

Palace sees inflation easing as rice harvest season expected to increase supply

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

MALACAÑANG expects inflation to ease after the ongoing harvest season, which is expected to increase rice supply.

“We are pleased to report that our economic managers anticipate a moderation in rice prices, as local production increases due to the onset of the harvest season and the entry of rice imports previously ordered. This will further alleviate the burden on our citizens,” read a brief statement

issued last Thursday by the Presidential Communications (PCO).

The PCO issued a statement after government statisticians reported that September inflation accelerated to 6.1 percent from 5.3 percent in August. High prices of food, particularly

rice, were the primary cause for the inflation uptick. Inflation for the food staple in September soared to 17.9 percent from 8.7 percent in the previous month.

This despite the government’s imposition of a month-long P41 per kilogram (kg) price ceiling for regular

milled rice (RMR) and P45 per kg for well-milled rice (WMR).

The PCO said the government will provide the necessary intervention to minimize the impact of high inflation to vulnerable groups.

The said interventions include the digital Food Stamp Program, fuel

subsidies, and targeted assistance for farmers.

“The President and his cabinet are actively working to alleviate transportation costs and make long-term investments in irrigation and modern farming practices to support our agricultural community,” PCO said.

THE Philippines has secured a new policy-based loan to support the government’s efforts on inclusive finance from its biggest lender to date, the Manila-based multilateral development bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Octavio Peralta Association World

Can we move beyond ‘pa-pogi’ points

SOMETIME in 2011, my friends and I visited Saigon and it floored me how much—or should I say, very little?—locals spent on their food. They could eat well for less than P70 a meal, which consisted of a cup of rice, soup, a small piece of fried fish, and vegetables. It was the same for a bowl of pho; its ingredients so fresh, making each spoonful of broth and every forkful of beef, noodles, and vegetables such a comfort.

And their economy has been booming. Their tourism industry has been growing with more hotels rising and tour operators bringing an increasing number of foreign travelers around the capital and to nearby villages. The retail sector has been extremely active with foreign fashion houses putting up stores, while more department stores were being built. Small food eateries, cafes and high-end restaurants were aplenty (with our very own Jollibee being among the early beneficiaries of Vietnam’s opening to foreign investments).

One economist told me that Vietnam’s economy has been growing by leaps and bounds because government has managed to keep their food prices low. Its government has invested heavily in the agriculture sector that its rice farms record very high yields of six tons per hectare. Cost of production is quite low that beef, once considered a luxury in that country, is now produced locally, supplying half of its consumer demand. Aquaculture is prevalent, and so is chicken and pork production.

For a long time, Vietnam was considered among the poorest nations in the world, just after its 20-year civil war ended in 1975. But in 1986, its government

the rest of their income for other consumer purchases (e.g, appliances and other modern conveniences, better motorcycles, etc., including travel beyond their shores). As per the latest data from the Department of Tourism, Vietnam is in fact our number 14th source market for tourists this year, with 52,590 having visited from January to September 29. Prior to the pandemic, in 2019, there were some 67,000

TODAY’S HOROSCOPE

By Eugenia Last

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS

DAY: Jeremy Sisto, 49; Amy Jo Johnson, 53; Elisabeth Shue, 60; Britt Ekland, 81.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Take the edge off, learn to relax and incorporate something into your routine that challenges you, stretches your imagination and satisfies your soul. Put things in perspective, address what bothers you and adjust your life. Take control of your happiness, choose not to let others interfere and take on a challenge that makes you feel good about yourself and your contributions. Let go of the past and declutter your life. Your numbers are 8, 12, 23, 27, 31, 40, 48.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Let go of situations you cannot control, and put your focus where it counts. Recap what you’ve accomplished and set new goals that entice you. A partnership looks inviting, but before you consider such a venture, clear up anything that may cause a problem. ★★

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Put everything you’ve got into something meaningful to you. Refuse to tie up your time with chitchat and pastimes that don’t interest you. Make decisions that offer something new and exciting and bring you in contact with like-minded people. Put yourself first.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Socialize, network and explore possibilities. Listen, but verify what you hear before you agree to get involved in something time-consuming. If you make intelligent decisions, you will stifle anger and anxiety. Know what you want and pursue your dream. Self-improvement is favored. 3 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Problems will surface if you rely on others. Don’t let emotions escalate; go about your business and put effort into something you enjoy. A creative outlet will spark your imagination, encourage new beginnings and deter you from letting others take advantage of you.

★★★

Meanwhile, as I’m writing this, President Ferdinad rice at P41 per kilo, and well-milled rice at P45 per kilo, aid to cover their losses, and traders from withholding their stocks, according to a few published reports. At my suki rice vendor near our community talipapa, rice in all their varieties—including brown rice, which I usually purchase, along with black and red rice—continued to be as plentiful as before the

Okada Manila demonstrates Bayanihan spirit with coastal cleanup, donation drive

IN an incredible display of unity and commitment to environmental stewardship, Okada Manila, the leading Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star rated integrated resort in Asia, partnered with the City Government of Parañaque to conduct a coastal cleanup drive on September 15, 2023, in celebration of World Cleanup Month.

This initiative, dubbed “Bayanihan CleanUp Drive Para sa Kalikasan,” showcased the unwavering Bayanihan spirit and the power of community service with an inspiring turnout of over a thousand volunteers.

Esteemed organizations joined the feat, including the International Coastal Cleanup, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, Philippine Marine Corps (PMC), Bureau of Fire Protection, Parañaque’s City Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO), and Parañaque’s Cleanliness Beautification and Sanitation.

“Our participation in this coastal cleanup and donation drive reflects our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and community welfare. The overwhelming

support and dedication shown by our Okada Manila team members exemplify the spirit of Bayanihan, and together we are making a meaningful impact on our planet and in our community,” Okada Manila president and chief operating officer Byron Yip said.

Volunteers, including Okada Manila team members, rallied together for a common

cause of environmental protection. CENRO deployed 80 swimmers to aid in the cleanup, while Okada Manila contributed eight bangkas, and PMC provided rubber boats to facilitate the operation.

The results of their collective efforts were astounding with CENRO recording a staggering 19 tons of trash removed from

The

the coastal area, including plastics, rubbers, styrofoam, tree branches, and driftwood. Waste segregation was carried out to ensure the responsible disposal of collected debris.

“As a staunch advocate of environmental sustainability, I believe that the urgency to eradicate plastic is undeniable. I express profound gratitude for the dedicated endeavors of Okada Manila and our esteemed agency partners. While the process of reversing the decades—even centuries—of neglect starts at a personal level, it is necessary for all of us to band together to make a bigger difference to our environment,” said Aileen Olivarez, first lady of Parañaque City and environmental advocate. As a responsible corporate citizen, Okada Manila remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental sustainability and community development. Through initiatives like the “Bayanihan Clean-Up Drive Para sa Kalikasan,” Okada Manila strives to leave a lasting positive impact on the environment and the lives of those it serves.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Shop around; don’t put everything you’ve got in one place. Diversity will help you avoid making costly mistakes. Use your intelligence and physical power to get your way and make things happen. Become the driving force behind your plans. ★★★

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Call on those you know and trust for backup. Discuss your intentions, mull over the input you receive and adjust your plans. Change is inevitable, and structuring what you want to happen instead of letting nature take its course is in your best interest. ★★★★

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Take your frustrations out by doing something that will make you feel and look your best. A physical outlet will clear your head and offer insight into the possibilities. Refuse to let the changes others make push you in the wrong direction. ★★

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Evaluate your situations at home and work, then consider your options. Don’t let your emotions interfere with your decision to change your lifestyle, location or direction. Consider your strengths and take the path that suits you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Push yourself to participate in activities that require you to use your strengths to get ahead. A physical challenge will be more significant than anticipated. Prepare diligently to avoid falling behind. ★★★

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Take the time to observe what others do and say before sharing your intentions. Emotional conversations will spin out of control, and anger will mount over discussions about money, contracts or unverified information. ★★★

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Concentrate on what’s important to you, and refrain from getting involved in other people’s business. Go over financial, medical and contractual matters to ensure everything progresses according to plan. ★★★

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Do something you enjoy. Entertaining, socializing and networking are worthwhile. You can set a precedent for what you want, but you can expect resistance if you don’t offer incentives.

BIRTHDAY BABY: You are insightful, concerned and proactive. You are dedicated and loyal.

‘game faces’ BY PARKER HIGGINS

PHOTO BY HANS ISAACSON ON UNSPLASH

Show BusinessMirror

Kurosawa lives on in the 2023 Tokyo International Filmfest

Julia OrmOnd sues Harvey Weinstein saying He assaulted Her; accuses caa, disney, miramax Of enabling

NEW YORK—Julia Ormond, who starred in films alongside the likes of Brad Pitt and Harrison Ford in the 1990s before her spotlight faded, filed a lawsuit on Wednesday accusing disgraced movie producer Harvey Weinstein of sexually assaulting her in 1995 and then hindering her career. Ormond, who also accuses The Walt Disney Co., Miramax and her former agents of knowing Weinstein was a problem but doing nothing about it, filed the case in state Supreme Court in Manhattan under the Adult Survivors Act, a law passed last year that allows a temporary window for those who allege sexual assault to file past the state’s normal deadlines.

In her suit, Ormond says she was a star on the rise when she met Weinstein in 1994. She says she kept in touch with him to discuss scripts and projects, and in 1995 entered into a production agreement with Miramax, where he was co-chairman. She accuses him of committing sexual battery against her in December 1995 after a business meeting, and then retaliating against her and negatively affecting her career after she confronted him weeks later.

The British actress says she told her US agents at the time, Creative Artists Agency, but received no support and was advised not to take any legal action or other steps. She accuses CAA, Disney and Miramax, saying that they knew Weinstein presented a danger to women but did nothing to stop him or to help her.

According to the filing, “none of these prominent companies warned Ormond that Weinstein had a history of assaulting women because he was too important, too powerful, and made them too much money.”

The lawsuit marks the first time Ormond has publicly accused Weinstein of sexual assault. The Associated Press generally doesn’t name the alleged victims of sexual assault, but is in this case because Ormond has spoken publicly about it, including in an interview with Variety.

Weinstein, 71, was convicted of rape and sexual assault in New York in 2020 and is in prison in the state. Last year, he also was convicted of another rape in Los Angeles. He has appealed both convictions. Weinstein attorney Imran Ansari said his client “categorically denies the allegations made against him by Julia Ormond and he is prepared to vehemently defend himself.”

E-mails seeking comment were sent to CAA, Disney and Miramax. Ormond’s films, include Legends of the Fall with Pitt; Sabrina with Ford, and First Knight with Sean Connery and Richard Gere. a P

‘Pa-pogi’...

Continued from B4

price caps went into effect. Even when there were growing complaints that rice prices were rising—that eventually forced the government price caps—my suki ’s prices remained stable. (I noticed my brown rice is still selling at P70 per kilo since the beginning of the year.)

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, with the Philippine population at some 110 million, it estimated that Filipinos consume an average of 133 kilos per year, per capita. Although our consumption of bread and instant noodles have been growing over the years, rice is still our basic source of carbohydrates, providing our bodies the fuel to accomplish our activities for the day. As the kids say, “Kanin is life.”

Unfortunately, the Philippines’ agriculture sector has faltered in meeting our staggering demand for the commodity. I was an agriculture reporter back in the late ‘80s, when Corazon Aquino was the President, and even then I was writing about problems in rice farming (e.g. irrigation, postharvest facilities, farm-to-market roads); rice imports; and the National Food Authority’s buying price for palay and how its purchases from the farmers helped beef up its buffer stock. Rice farm yields have moved very little from the mid-1980s at 3.4 tons per hectare, to the current 4 tons per hectare.

Which goes to show, very little has changed in the Department of Agriculture and government rice policies, and policies on the agriculture sector in general. It’s not just in rice that we have been wanting, but even in sugar, onions, fish, beef, coffee, to name a few. And because the country keeps importing these products to cover for local shortfalls and we have a weak peso, they continue to be expensive and out of reach of many. Instant noodles and 3-in-1 coffee have become the go-to diet of the masses.

So this is why, even as goverment economists like boasting how robust the growth is of our economy, nearly half of Filipino families, or 12.5 million households, rate themselves as poor, according to a survey of a well-regarded national pollster in July. Inflation, or the rate of increase in prices of consumer goods and services, has been speeding up because food and transport costs keep rising, while wages have hardly kept up with the increases in cost of living. And with Christmas coming, expect food prices to reach their peak.

It’s great that our economy is supposedly expanding by 6 to 7 percent. But unless our government leaders can institute real reforms that transform the agriculture sector into a powerhouse that can meet and sustain the growing food and nutritional needs of Filipinos, those growth figures are mere pa-pogi points of our leaders to justify their existence, and convince each other they are accomplishing a lot. They don’t fool us into believing the same.

WITH his genius, Kurosawa Akira remains in the consciousness of all cineastes both in Japan and outside. But the filmmaker, who is the most “inter-national” of all of the Japanese directors, is the face of honor given to other filmmakers who excel in their own cinematic journey. This recognition cuts across nationalities.

The award named after the maker of enduring classics like Rashomon and Seven Samurai has been revived after 14 years. In this regard, the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) has announced the recipients of the award. They are Chinese director Gu Xiaogang and Indonesian director Mouly Surya.

The award, according to TIFF, is a way of honoring Kurosawa’s “legacy and ongoing influence” and is presented to “filmmakers who have made waves in cinema and are expected to help guide the industry’s future.”

The 2023 selection committee was composed of Yamada Yoji, Dan Fumi, Narahashi Yoko, Kawamoto Saburo and TIFF Programming Director Ichiyama Shozo.

For the selection committee, Gu Xiaogang’s directorial debut Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains showed his excellence. The film was noted for its depiction “of a large family with humanistic observation and fluid camerawork” and “had shown the world that a new generation of directors is emerging from the Chinese film industry.”

Gu Xiaogang was doing documentaries and short films before he ventured into his first feature, which took some two years to finish. Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains premiered in the Cannes Festival in 2019, where it closed the Critics’ Week; it also won the Special Jury Prize in Tokyo Filmex. Not bad for an artist whose original ambition was to study animation and manga courses in a university.

For Mouly Surya, the committee pointed to the filmmaker’s third feature Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts for its “powerful portrayal of a woman’s actions with a touch of Western cinema.” For them, the film presented a different portrayal of Indonesian women, “overturning the conventional image of Indonesian film.” The selection committee also stated how “her international acclaim has also given hope to so many Southeast Asian female filmmakers.” Surya’s debut feature Fiction won four awards including Best Picture at the Festival Film Indonesia in 2008. What They Don’t Talk About Me When They Talk About Love, her second feature, was invited to TIFF in 2013. It was the first Indonesian film to be selected for the Sundance Film Festival. Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts was awarded the Grand Prize at Tokyo Filmex and was

Indonesia’s entry to the Oscars.

The report from TIFF quotes a comment from Gu Xiaogang: “This honor, awarded to me with the care and trust of the 36th Tokyo International Film Festival, is actually a bit like a stern admonition from Director Kurosawa Akira. It’s like he is saying to me: ‘Gu Xiaogang, you need to find out what cinema is really all about. I’m asking you this so that you can be qualified to make movies in the future.’ I hope I can work on ‘finding out what cinema is all about’ in the years to come.”

The speech from Mouly Surya is no less piquant: “As someone who loves stories, manga, anime and, later in life, cinema—I had never ever dared to dream of having my name be mentioned in the same sentence with Kurosawa Akira. After all, I was just a young girl then. A very different image of someone you’d imagine leading a film set. Decades later, I get to receive this award, and I think this perception has changed. It is a great honor for me....”

In 2022, the recipients of the award were directors Alejandro González Iñárritu and Fukada Koji.

An endearing tribute to Kurosawa will happen in this year’s edition of TIFF: the festival will present cinematic masterpieces beloved by the auteur. These are: City Lights (director: Charles Chaplin), 1931/86 minutes/USA; The Lower Depths (director: Jean Renoir) 1936/93 minutes/France; The Quiet Man (Director: John Ford), 1952/129 minutes/USA; The 400 Blows (director: Francois Truffaut) 1959/99 minuntes/France; Throne of Blood (Director: Kurosawa Akira) 1957/110 minutes/ Japan.

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ANOTHER commendable project is coming to fruition: this is the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival. The project is expected to provide film directors

the chance to showcase their own ideas through narratives portraying their own “kwentong panalo ng buhay” (freely translated as “life’s little triumphs”).

Puregold is giving away millions worth of production grants to help fund the works of filmmakers that will participate in it. Vincent Co, president of Puregold Price Club Inc., explained the project as having the aim of “uplifting the spirits of young and gifted filmmakers who are just waiting for a break.”

The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival is looking for inspirational and heartwarming stories, creations that “reflect timeless Pinoy values about love, family, and hope.”

Festival director Chris Cahilig affirms this purpose as he cites films that provide “the warm and fuzzy feeling that truly great cinema can inspire.”

Five amateur and professional directors shall be awarded P2,500,000 each to produce a feature film for the festival. Twenty-five student filmmakers will be given P100,000 each to create shorts.

The completed films will be screened at a threeday festival to be held at Gateway Cinemas from March 8 to 10, 2024. The short films will also be posted on Puregold’s official social media pages such as the Puregold Channel on YouTube. These shorts will be featured next to Puregold’s successful retailtainment series, such as GV Boys, Ang Babae sa Likod ng Face Mask and Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile.

A selection committee will go through all applications to find the exceptional directors who will make up the festival’s lineup in March.

Interested participants may e-mail thesecretariat@ cinepanalo.com to receive the materials needed to apply. All applications and requirements must be emailed back by October 27, 2023. n

Championing Filipino talent, top network scores multiple creative wins

PHILIPPINE media giant GMA Network continues to champion Filipino talent on the global stage, emerging as national winners across various categories at the 2023 Asian Academy Creative Awards. Taking home back-to-back national awards is GMA Integrated News’ flagship newscast 24 Oras, which won in the Best Documentary Series and Best News / Current Affairs Programme or Series categories.

Anchored by Mel Tiangco, Emil Sumangil and Vicky Morales, 24 Oras is set to represent the Philippines in the Best Documentary Series category for its Climate Change series (“Banta ng Nagbabagong Klima”). The special report series presented by GMA Integrated News’ roster of award-winning reporters pushed the conversation on climate change in the national agenda. The series not only shone a spotlight on the palpable impact of extreme weather conditions on ordinary Filipinos, but also showcased tales of resilience and innovation in adapting to the threat of climate change.

24 Oras will also represent the country in the Best News / Current Affairs Programme or Series category, for its Typhoon Doksuri (Supertyphoon Egay) coverage. In 2021, the nightly newscast was declared the Grand Winner in the same category.

Set to raise the Philippine flag once more is multiplatform leader and multi-awarded public affairs program Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS), winning the Best Infotainment Programme for “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho

Original: Titikman.”  Host Jessica Soho, together with GMA artists and popular food vloggers, explored the latest food trends from various regions

across the country. This is the fifth time that KMJS was named the winner for the category. For covering South Korea’s Itaewon Tragedy, GMA Public Affairs’ daily news magazine show Dapat Alam Mo! emerged as the winner in the Best Single News Story category. Host Kim Atienza gave a firsthand account of the stampede that happened in Itaewon on Halloween weekend. Atienza and his team were in Korea to shoot for the show’s first anniversary but arrived in Itaewon just when the crowd crush was happening. Multi-awarded documentary program The Atom Araullo Specials won the award for Best Documentary Programme for its documentary “Anak.” The winning entry shows Atom Araullo as he explores how hunger in some places in the Philippines forces parents to give up their children.

Winning the award for Best Single Drama/ Telemovie/Anthology Episode is Tadhana for its “Beautiful Revenge” episode. The award-winning drama anthology by GMA Public Affairs is hosted by Marian Rivera.

From making history, bringing world-class entertainment, and showing Pinoy pride on a global scale, GMA Network’s groundbreaking live-action adaptation Voltes V: Legacy is representing the Philippines in two categories: the Best Animated Programme or Series (2D or 3D) and Best Visual or Special FX in a TV Series or Feature Film. The series was produced by GMA Network in partnership with Toei Company, Ltd. and Telesuccess Productions Inc. Acclaimed local animators from GMA’s Post Video Graphics and Audio team and Riot Inc. handled the

program’s heavy CGI and other visual effects.

Further, GMA Entertainment Group’s groundbreaking TV series Maria Clara at Ibarra took home the award for Best Theme Song. Titled “Babaguhin Ang Buong Mundo,” the song was sung by Julie Anne San Jose who also portrayed the role of Maria Clara in the hit series. It was written and arranged by Simon Peter Tan and Rocky Gacho. The series also stars Barbie Forteza as Klay, David Licauco as Fidel, and Dennis Trillo as Ibarra.

As winners, these GMA shows will represent the Philippines in the Grand Awards and Gala Final on December 7. The AAA’s honors excellence in craft and technical disciplines across multiple platforms including television, digital, mobile, streaming, and any other emerging technologies.

SM Foundation helps farmers take a step towards becoming agripreneurs

SM Foundation recently marked the graduation of the beneficiaries of its Kabuhayan Sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSKSAP) farmers’ training in Laguna.

Three batches of farmers from Brgy. Banlic, Calamba, Laguna, Brgy. San Lucas 1, San Pablo, Laguna, and Brgy. Tagapo, Sta. Rosa, Laguna has successfully completed the 14-week training in multiple facets of agriculture.

Through the collaboration of the SM Foundation and its partners, participants gained valuable knowledge in the cultivation and management of diverse crops, along with the adoption of modern farming techniques and practices for planting, nurturing, and harvesting produce.

The training culminated in a market tour, harvest festival and graduation ceremony, where over 60 farmers from the said batches passed their TESDA National Certificate II in Organic Agriculture Production assessment. This milestone opens doors for the farmers, enabling them to explore agripreneurship

or pursue employment opportunities in the thriving organic farming sector, all while applying their skills in sustainable agriculture and food production in accordance with organic farming standards and principles.

The SM Foundation’s KSK-SAP in Laguna was conducted in close collaboration with SM group’s SM City Calamba, SM City San Pablo, SM City Sta. Rosa, and SM Markets; DA, DSWD, DTI,

Brewed to Success: The Story of Fast-Growing, award winning Mountaintop Coffee Beans

WHILE Dalgona coffee was enjoying huge popularity at the height of forced lockdowns during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, young businesswoman Marie Antonette Medina was taking a sip, starting a new local coffee brand, which has grown rapidly to attract attention and become among the recipients of Philippine Finest Business Awards & Outstanding Achievers 2023.

From a small home-based business that started with just five kilos of freshly ground coffee from the Cordilleras in June 2020, Mountaintop Coffee Beans is now a fastgrowing organic coffee drip brand selling more than 1,000 kilos overall each month.

Medina admits that she did not expect the business to perform this well, but reiterates that since the beginning, she has always been confident of the organic coffee’s potential. “With so many coffee products and brands in the local market, I knew that coffee from the Cordillera mountains will always stand out because of its unique texture and smooth taste,” she says.

DOST, TESDA, DOT, Local Government Units (Calamba, San Pablo, Sta. Rosa), and partner school MoCa Family Farm RLearning Center, Inc.

Since 2007, the KSK-SAP has fueled the farming and entrepreneurial capabilities of over 28,000 marginalized rural and urban farmers nationwide. Some of the farmers’ training graduates have become seasonal suppliers within the SM group and other local markets.

The 29-year-old entrepreneur started the business in their family residence in San Fernando, Pampanga by herself. She ordered coffee beans from some Cordillera-based farmers she met before, did the repacking, and sold and delivered the first batch of packs initially to her friends. Through word-of-mouth and social media marketing, orders increased until Medina decided to upgrade packaging.

Mountaintop Coffee Beans has the best organic coffee since day one, but Medina knew investing in high-grade packaging would further work wonders. She commissioned a freelance graphics artist to do the logo based on her ideas and found an international supplier to produce the premium product packs in different variations and order sizes.

In no time, Mountaintop Coffee Beans drew market attention. Coffee lovers can easily choose among fine grind, medium coarse, or wholebeans options in either 250-gram or 500-gram pack. Though the products are available online through the major e-commerce platforms, corporate clients and coffee shops still account for a greater pie of its monthly sales.

Medina is also not ruling out the possibility of putting up her own Mountain Coffee Beans’ coffee shop but says, “For now, we are focusing

on making the brand grow more until we export our products to other countries. I have to be careful in making business decisions because there are many other families that are relying on it, not just mine.”

A single mom since she was just 16, Medina is keeping her staff, some also single moms, with the commitment to help them grow their own careers as well along with the business. This early, she reveals that she is grooming each member of the team to eventually lead various operations or aspects of the growing business.

“I know how hard life could be especially to single moms. That is why as much as possible, I want everyone in the team to stay and grow with the business as we share the successes of each milestone. They are family,” she says.

Medina is also grateful for having a supportive family “despite the disappointments in the past.” She recalls that she was a consistent honor student until she became a teenage mom. While in college, she managed the pressure of finishing studies while thinking of ways to earn for her daughter.

“My parents continued to support me, but I knew I had to strive harder for my daughter,” she recalls. That’s when she got into online selling—going to Divisoria in Manila regularly to buy stuff—and eventually putting up her own home-based travel agency. But just like most entrepreneurs during the start of pandemic lockdowns, Medina lost income opportunities, which gave her stressful days thinking of ways to make ends meet—until the coffee business idea knocked at her door.

Aside from the success of Mountaintop Coffee Beans, Medina gets the fulfillment from sincere feedback from its growing fan base. She is also glad to take another milestone this month as the brand gets recognized by the Philippine Finest Business Awards & Outstanding Achievers 2023, which will have its formal awarding rites at the Hexagon Events Place in Quezon City on September 8, 2023.

“I am overjoyed and would like to share this milestone with my team and my family, especially to my brother in Singapore who has believed in me and backed me up during the trying times. Mountaintop Coffee Beans is proud to bring the best organic coffee fresh from the Cordilleras to the most discerning coffee enthusiasts across the country,” she ends.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Campaign Unveils Art Exhibit Showcasing Renowned Contemporary Artists

KASUSO Foundation in partnership with Araneta City is thrilled to announce its Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign. This year’s campaign, themed “Let’s Bridge the Breast Cancer Care Gap: Fair and Square,” aims to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer education and support.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, celebrated annually in October, provides a platform to spotlight the importance of early detection, access to care, and the ongoing need for research breakthroughs in breast cancer treatment. This year, Kasuso has partnered with Araneta City to bring together 35 renowned and upcoming contemporary artists and 15 photojournalists to create a unique and impactful experience for supporters.

Event Highlights include

“Susuportahan Kita: A Benefit Art Exhibit: Bridging the Gap in Breast Cancer Care in the Philippines;” Kasuso Stories of Survival Against All Odds: A Photo Exhibit and KasusoCon: Merging Craft and Cause: A Benefit Art Convention

As the centerpiece of this campaign, Kasuso Foundation in partnership with Araneta City is proud to present “Susuportahan Kita” a one-of-a-kind contemporary art exhibit featuring the works of some of today’s most celebrated artists. It is a cross-disciplinary art exhibit that celebrates the strength and resilience of women and families affected by breast cancer. With works from both new and established Filipino artists, the exhibit explores a wide range of themes related to the disease, including the physical and emotional challenges, the importance of family and community support, the power

of hope and resilience, and the need for early detection and access to treatment.

More than an invitation to ponder the personal stories of those impacted by the disease, the exhibit is also a critique on the broader societal challenges faced by Filipina women, including the lack of inclusive healthcare.

The artworks on display were chosen for their diversity in terms of art style, practice, and background. Some of the artists are themselves breast cancer patients or survivors, while others were inspired to create their work by the stories of loved ones affected by the disease.

Established and new artists in the art scene such as Mideo Cruz, Raquel De Loyola, Jef Carnay, and Jun Sabayton, Isha Naguiat, Hannah Nantes, Corrine Fernandez Garcia, Lilay Sarreal, Kevin Roque, Jomari Caya, and Naburok, have generously contributed their artwork, weaving different modes of creative expression, each with a unique perspective on the theme of bridging the breast cancer care gap. From powerful sculptures to thought provoking paintings, this exhibit promises to engage, inspire, and ignite important conversations about breast cancer care disparities.

The “Susuportahan Kita” exhibit will have a grand opening on October 7 and will be open to the public throughout the month of October at Gateway Mall in Araneta City. Visitors will have the opportunity to view and purchase these exceptional artworks, with proceeds going toward Kasuso’s initiatives to provide support and assistance to women affected by this disease.

Esteemed photojournalist Jimmy Domingo will portray the everyday

challenges that breast cancer patients experience in his photo exhibit. His masterful storytelling will give the public a deeper understanding of the current breast cancer situation in the country.

Throughout the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Kasuso Foundation will host a Benefit Art and Photo Exhibit, Kasuso-Con Art Convention, Breast Health Talk, Floristry Workshop in partnership with Gathered Creative Co., and two patient-focused parties celebrating the life of breast cancer survivors one in partnership with Ogie Diaz and the other with Tupperware Brand. The goal is to not only emphasize the importance of early detection but also to advocate for equitable access to healthcare resources for all women affected by breast cancer.

Kasuso Foundation invites friends from the media to this vital campaign to help spread the foundation’s advocacy so that everyone can help provide greater access to care so that no Filipina will die of breast cancer in the future.

“We believe that art has the power to inspire change and ignite conversations around important issues,” says Georgia M. Pangan, President of Kasuso Foundation.

“Through the ‘Susuportahan Kita’ exhibit and our entire Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign, we aim to create a meaningful impact in the fight against breast cancer and ensure that no one is left behind in their journey to receive the care they need.”

For more information about Kasuso Foundation’s Breast Cancer Awareness

“Susuportahan Kita” exhibit, please visit our social media pages at facebook.com/kasusongpinay or contact 09173181048.

EMPOWERING FAR FLUNG SCHOOLS. One Meralco Foundation (OMF) once again partnered with Lenovo Philippines Inc. for its school electrification program. Seen in the photo are, from left, Meralco Chief Revenue Officer and OMF Trustee Ferdinand O. Geluz, Meralco FVP and Head of Information, Communication, Technology and Transformation Rocky D. Bacani; Meralco Chief CSR Officer and OMF President Jeffrey O. Tarayao; Lenovo Philippines President and General Manager Michael Ngan; Meralco EVP and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho; Meralco VP and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga; Lenovo Philippines Marketing Manager Anna Maria Abola; One Lenovo Client Manager Janine LaygoLibrea; Lenovo Philippines Enterprise Segment Lead Raymond Remoquillo; and Lenovo Philippines Small Medium Business Segment Lead Clark L. Popple.

ONE Meralco Foundation (OMF), the corporate foundation and social development arm of the Manila Electric Company (Meralco), has once again partnered with Lenovo Philippines Inc. for its school electrification program that aims to enhance the learning experience of students in off-grid areas in the country.

OMF and Lenovo Philippines signed a Deed of Donation involving Lenovo laptops for school beneficiaries in Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, Palawan, and South Cotabato.

Lenovo Philippines President and General Manager Michael Ngan said the partnership with OMF would help empower schools in the digital age.

“Our company has always been driven to provide smarter technology for all. However, we understand that without power, the potential of technology remains untapped. By providing laptops to electrified schools, we light the way for students and educators to access a world of knowledge.” Ngan said during the signing event.

In 2022, Lenovo Philippines also teamed up with OMF to provide laptops to Baliguian Elementary School, Polopiña Elementary School, and Canauillan Elementary School in the province of Iloilo, as well as back-toschool kits in these schools.

“Being able to reach the most distant island schools in the country gives an even

deeper meaning to our work in One Meralco Foundation. We are happy that even our partners like Lenovo join us in these areas and contribute to the meaningful change that help improve communities,” OMF President and Meralco Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer Jeffrey O. Tarayao said.

OMF’s school electrification program aims to provide solar power to remote, off-grid public schools across the country to enable multimedia learning for students residing in the most underserved communities. Since 2012, OMF and its partners have successfully energized 290 offgrid public schools in remote communities in the country, directly benefiting 89,235 students and 2,903 teachers.

To enable the productivity of teachers and students, and their immediate communities by providing energy access to many underserved communities in the country is a great part of Meralco’s advocacy, according to Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho.

“Through our electrification initiatives, Meralco and OMF hope to continue changing more lives for the better and contributing to sustainable and inclusive development of communities beyond our franchise area,” Aperocho concluded.

PROMOTING DIGITAL BANKING. Senate Committee on Banks, Financial Institutions and Currencies chairman Sen. Mark Villar (center) receives a token of appreciation from Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB) and Sterling Bank of Asia president Cecilio "Paul' San Pedro (second from left) during CTB’s annual convention at Dusit Thani Manila in Makati City, where he talked about his committee’s legislative initiatives to encourage digital banking while minimizing digital scams and frauds, particularly the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act. Also in photo are (from left) CTB treasurer and trustee and Malayan Savings Bank president Alberto Emilio Ramos, CTB trustee and convention co-chair and First Consolidated Bank vice chairman Argeo Melisimo, and CTB trustee and convention co-chair and Bank of Makati president Luis Chua.

Meralco levels up partnership with Lenovo Philippines to empower more teachers, students in far-flung areas

Editor: Jun Lomibao

GILAS EYES 1ST ASIAN GAMES GOLD MEDAL IN 6 DECADES

HANGZHOU—The Philippines goes for one more victory to bring home that most precious basketball gold medal from the Asian Games.

B ut Jordan stands in the way of Gilas Pilipinas, which aims to end six decades of waiting for that Asiad gold that last went into Filipinos’ hands in 1962 in Tokyo.

It was just a miracle win,” said Gilas head coach Tim Cone on Gilas’s Justin Brownlee-orchestrated come-from-behind 77-76 win that ousted China from the gold medal match in Wednesday’s semifinal.

“ This is special,” Cone said. “Twenty-five years ago, China beat me. And, I tell you, to this day that’s the only game where I cried. To come back here and get this victory now is to come full cycle. It’s an emotional time for us and, I think, for everybody.”

The Philippines-Jordan gold medal game is set at 8 p.m., on Friday at the Hangzhou Olympic Centre Gymnasium.

For Filipinos, it won’t be a mere Philippines-Jordan showdown. On the side, it’s also a Brownlee-Rondae Hollis-Jefferson duel, an extension of their rivalry in the Philippine Basketball Association.

They’re to clash right after the Asian Games with Brownlee again donning a Barangay Ginebra San Miguel jersey, and Hollis-Jefferson the colors of TNT Tropang Giga in the Commissioner’s Cup.

But it’s the battle in Hangzhou that matters most tonight.

C hina opens the day’s skirmish with its game for the bronze medal against Chinese-Taipei, a match that perhaps could carry some tinge of geopolitics.

Th at showdown for third would be the toast of the local fans. The match a few hours after that would be for both finalists and the rest of Asia.

Jordan has yet to win an Asian Games gold medal, finishing fourth twice, including in 1986 in Seoul when it bowed to an all-amateur Philippine team coached by Joe Lipa in the battle for bronze.

T he Philippines?

It last ruled in 1962, the last in an 11-year reign as champions— Cone was only seven years old then and two years away from moving to the Philippines with his

Sports

parents. Jordan beat the Philippines, 87-62, in the preliminaries that sent Gilas into must win games against Iran in the quarterfinals and China in the semifinals.

Jordan, on the other hand, secured an outright quarterfinal berth after beating Gilas, Saudi Arabia Chinese-Taipei.

But Gilas survived the Iranians enormous rally, 84-83, and then found itself doing an Iran but successfully completing the task on Brownlee’s countless heroics.

Cone did savor that win over China, but his task isn’t complete.

I’m trying to keep an even keel because we got another game, and our goal still is to win the gold,” he said.

“We said that from the beginning. I’m not sure we believe we’d get here, but we did say that from the beginning. We also kept saying we want to get back and play Jordan, so we’re back to play them. Now we’ll see what we can do on Saturday.”

Cone was all praised of Brownlee— he took one unbelievable three-pointer after another he highlighted with a stepback three he took in front of China’s bench that cut the lead to 76-74.

Then came another amazing pull-up three against two defenders for the goahead, 77-76, with 23 seconds left.

Those last two shots were like impossible,” Cone said. “Guys were right on his face, and I thought there’s no way either of those would go in and both of them go…Boom! Boom! And I was like, wow, we have a shot!

Whew! Those last two shots… they’re unforgettable. People will remember them forever.”

It will be the first Asian Games final for the Philippines since 1990 when the legendary Robert Jaworski coached an all-PBA team to the silver medal against China in Beijing. By reaching the final, Cone also already surpassed his 1998 Bangkok Asiad achievement where he steered the Centennial Team to a bronze finish.

MEGGIE GETS GOLD

By Jun Lomibao

HANGZHOU—Meggie

Ochoa transformed her sick body into one gold medal-clinching machine to give Team Philippines a third reason to rejoice in the 19th edition of the Asian Games that comes to a close in three days.

My prayers got answered,” said the two-time world champion as tears rolled down from her wary but sparkling eyes following her 1-0 victory over Balqees Abdulla of United Arab Emirates in jiu-jitsu’s women’s -48kg category.

Her gold medal was only the second for Team Philippines that hinged its campaign for five days now Ernest John “EJ” Obiena’s expected victory in record fashion in men’s pole vault.

This victory is different from the rest, because here, I represent our country,” said the 33-year-old Ochoa, bronze medalist in the Indonesia Asiad five years ago.

O choa wasn’t feeling well when he arrived here three days ahead of

Asiad road cycling too much for Filipino riders in Chun’an

HANGZHOU—Kazakhstan

riders finished 1-2 with a Mongolian completing the podium in the men’s road race that capped the cycling competitions of the 19th Asian Games.

The Philippines’ Ronald Oranza and Jomel Carcueva, two of the more notable veterans back home, and Asiad newcomer Joshua Pascual, on the other hand, finished way behind in the 210-km event raced under cool conditions in picturesque Chun’an.

O ranza and Pascual got OTLS for over the time limit across their names in the results list and Carcueva, the reigning national champion, was DNF for did not finish.

No excuses,” said head coach Reinhard Gorantes, who admits to frustration but not disappointment over his wards dismal finish in the 64-rider race among 16 Asian nations.

There are a lot of things that are needed to be done—first is exposure and second, keep the national team as intact and together as possible at all times,” he said.

A sian cycling has progressed by leaps and bounds with the Kazakhs among the strongest in the region

with their well-funded World Pro Tour and continental team programs.

They proved that through Yevgeniy Fedorov and Alexey

Lutsenko winning gold and silver with identical times of four minutes and 25.29 seconds.

Mongolian Janbaltsamts

Sainbayar ruled a sprint finish for the bronze medal against 10 rivals but they crossed almost six minutes after the Kazakhs.

V irgilio Espiritu, also PhilCycling’s coach for road, agreed with Gorantes on more foreign races for local riders.

“ The more races, the better for training,” he said.

Gorantes, the most veteran among the three athletes and double bronze winner in the Cambodia Southeast Asian Games last May, said they rode as a team and poured everything they got.

It was a top level race, so fast and so technical,” said Gorantes adding everyone in the field were wore down by the pace that went between 50 to 60 kph.

Forty riders made it to the allowable time of finish, six got OTL and 14 were DNF. Jun Lomibao

her campaign.

Ochoa had a slight fever when she arrived here but went down to 36.7 the morning after.

She had itchy eyes and felt cold, she also had a sore throat,” Michael Magpantay, a member of the Team Philippines medical staff headed by Dr. Charles Corpuz, said. “When Dr. [Jojo] Gaddi checked on her, she was capable of fighting.”

With two gold, one silver— courtesy of wushu sanda warrior Arnel Mandal—and 10 bronze medals, the Philippines was 22nd on the medal tally board and still two golds short of matching its haul in Indonesia 2018.

C hina was unreachable with its haul of 177 gold medals, followed by Japan with 41-52-59 gold-silverbronze tally at second, South Korea with 33-47-75 at third, India at fourth with 21-32-32 and Uzbekistan at fifth with 17-16-22.

M eanwhile, Sakura Alforte pocketed a bronze medal in the individual kata event of women’s karate.

The Southeast Asian Games

gold winner tallied 41.90 points in defeating Chien Hui Hsuan of Chinese Taipei (41.30) for a place at the medal podium.

The 20-year-old FilipinoJapanese is fast becoming a household name in the continental scene after claiming a bronze medal in the 2021 Asian championships in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

This is one tournament

“

I’m really looking forward to [competing]. I’m very happy,’’ Alforte, who qualified to the second round after kicking off her bid at third and compiling 40 points, said.

A lforte landed on third among four competitors in the second round with 40.70 points to set up in a collision course for third place against Chien.

Tapales to Inoue: ‘I’ll be your biggest nightmare’

By Josef T. Ramos

UNIFIED super bantamweight champion Marlon Tapales warned Japanese Monster Naoya Inoue that he would be his biggest nightmare this coming December in Tokyo, Japan.

Tapales, the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) and International Boxing Federation (IBF) super bantamweight champion, said he would make his undefeated opponent as his fifth victim in Japan.

I’ll be his biggest nightmare in December,” Tapales, 31, said while finishing his training session at the Knucklehead boxing gym in Las Vegas, Nevada along with trainer Ernel Fontanilla. “I am training hard everyday. I will come for the Monster.”

Not known to many, Tapales is undefeated in four fights in Japan.

He debuted with a fourth round technical knockout triumph

over Ruben Manakane of Indonesia in Kanazawa in May 2013, before returning to Kanazawa in April 2014 and then scored a fifth round technical decision victory over Japanese Hayato Manakane.

H is biggest break came when he posted a second round knockout win against Japanese Shohei Omori in Kyoto, Japan in a non-title bantamweight bout in 2015.

Tapales conquered Thai fighter Panya Uthok via 11th round technical knockout win in 2016 in Thailand to seize the World Boxing Organization (WBO) bantamweight belt.

But despite losing the WBO bantamweight belt in the scale after failing to make weight, he still scored an 11th round technical knockout win over Omori in their bantamweight rematch in April 2017 in Osaka, Japan.

Th at was his last bout in Japan six years ago.

A nd now, he’s willing to relive those memories once again in a very important match of his career. “ So glad my everyday training always goes smoothly. My condition looks good, as well as my stamina, durability, punching power and quickness. So by December during the fight night, I will be better than ever. I will be ready to be Inoue’s worst nightmare,” Tapales added.  İ nternational matchmaker

Sean Gibbons expressed his faith with the Tapales also known as the “Nightmare.” “ Marlon is known for his never give up attitude despite the tall odds. He fights at any given situation, he adjusts, and never fear. He will be coming for the Monster,” Gibbons said. “He’s been in Japan four times, he is also 4 and 0, and he’s going to be 5 and 0 in Japan when he beats Inoue.”

Pickleball

volleys way to Ayala Malls

AYALA Malls redefines lifestyle with Picklemall, bringing in Pickeball into its chain of centers as part of its continuing effort to promote health and wellness through the staging of the fastgrowing sport across the globe.

K icking off the campaign, Ayala Malls is hosting a Pickleball match between chairman Jaime Zobel De Ayala and Lizzie Zobel De Ayala at 10 a.m. today (Friday, Oct. 6) at Greenbelt Fashion Walk, marking the start of a new era as Ayala Malls becomes the home not only for the sport but also for the community Picklemall stands for.

A racket sport, Pickleball has gained a mainstream appeal for its simple rules, engaging gameplay and variation of techniques. It mingles the thrill and accuracy of tennis and the dexterity and quickness of badminton.

It is played with a paddle and a ball over a net and close to a size of a badminton court.

rules are similar to tennis with a few

Brodeth aims for PPS Fiesta Cup sweep

N-FORM Kimi Brodeth expects to bump into a set of rivals so pumped up to stop her run as she shoots for another “double” in singles play in the Lapu-Lapu City Juniors Fiesta National Tennis Championships Leg 2, which gets going Friday in Cebu City. rodeth trounced Kate Imalay from Bato, Leyte and Cavite’s Sandra Bautista to complete a sweep of the 16- and 18-and-under titles in the opening leg of the two-part series presented by Dunlop last week in Cebu. But the multi-titled campaigner from Ormoc City braces for a stiffer challenge this time with Samantha Ortega and AJ Acabo joining Imalay in the 16-and-U title hunt.

A cabo, from Zamboanga Sibugay, Ortega and Imalay also head the compact list of challengers in the premier division of the Group I tournament that includes Lea Balacuit, Mae Parangan, Faith Banico and Niña Torrejos.

Meanwhile, Lanao del Norte’s Mcleen Gomera, who matched Brodeth’s two-title romp in Leg 1, has opted to skip this week’s tournament hosted by Rep. Cindi Chan, guaranteeing a wide-open battle for top honors in the boys’ 16and 18-and-under classes. Gio Manito and Nicholas Ocat gain the top two seeding in the centerpiece division that also drew RB John Lataza, Aaron Tabura, Juvels Velos, Jan Docor, Andre Namocatcat and Cloyd Canoy while Kenzo Brodeth banners the 16-and-U cast that includes Manito, Tabura, Namocatcat, Velos, Daniel Neri, Christian Laguna and Jay Laguna.

K enzo Brodeth also guns for back-to-back title feat in the 14-and-U division with David Sepulveda, Leg 1 12-and-U winner Claudwin Tonacao, Christian Laguna, Xian Calagos, Al Jose Gairanod, Jr., Gil Niere and Neri making up the core of challengers.

Hongqiofficiallyopensits first-everpremierdealersHip

S. Peregrino

CHINESE luxury car brand Hongqi recently opened its first-ever premier dealership in the Philippines.

The country’s official distributor, EVOxTerra, established the newly opened facility with nobility and sustainability in mind. Located on the ground floor of the Asian Century Center, Bonifacio Global City, the expansive showroom showcases eco-friendly elements from the materials used and lighting to the presence of green plants inside. According to the distributor, the showroom design promises an immersive experience that fosters interaction between customers, cars, and the brand.

Operated by First Automotive Works (FAW) of China, the Hongqi brand was established in 1958. It is one of China’s most prestigious luxury automobile brands with a long, rich, illustrious history. Its line of limousines and SUVs continues to be the vehicle of choice for high-ranking government officials, visiting heads of state, influential leaders of industries, prominent business personalities, and opulent celebrities.

Hongqi claims that its pursuit of elegance and innovation has propelled it to spearhead China’s automotive evolution by consistently showcasing its engineering prowess, shaping the landscape of Chinese automobile brands. The name “Hongqi,” which means “red banner,” is more than a name; it embodies the nation’s pride, symbolizing resilience, strength, and grandeur. Hongqi revealed its current lineup by parading each model for guests.

E-HS9 all-electric SUV

FIRST to be showcased was the brand’s flagship all-electric SUV, the EHS9. Previewed last summer, it exudes that familiar guise of an opulent English-made SUV at a glance. The E-HS9 is offered in Executive (P4.78 million),

Deluxe (P5.38 million), and Flagship (P5.98 million) variants. According to Hongqi, batteries are large-capacity from CATL powering high-performance dual-electric motors dishing out 544 hp to an all-wheel drive drain. The vehicle’s battery is capable of a 10-minute supercharge to deliver a 100-kilometer driving range.

The E-HS9 represents the brand’s pinnacle engineering marvel and serves as the flag-bearer of the brand’s commitment to excellence in the field of new energy vehicles.

H9 luxury sedan

A NOTHER flagship model is the H9 luxury sedan, which looks reminiscent of that other known English luxury car brands. This Dsegment sedan has all the bells and whistles in every opulent vehicle. It features premium leather, exquisite surfaces, and trim embellished with brushed aluminum accents. Available in two variants, the entry spec is powered by a 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with a 48V permanent magnet synchronous motor producing a combined 245 hp and 380 N-m of torque. It retails at P5.15 million. On the other hand, the top-spec boasts a 3.0-liter V6 supercharged motor generating 272 hp and 400 N-m and retails significantly higher at P8.08 million.

E-QM5 all-electric sedan

THE E-QM5 is the other all-electric model in the lineup. Utilizing a permanent magnet synchronous motor, it generates 140kW (188 hp) with a maximum range of up to 431km on a full charge. With a more toned-down cabin design, the exterior somewhat reminds us of

the popular American EV brand.

Hongqi claims that the E-QM5 EV is positioned as the next-generation mobility solution to a broader audience. The Hongqi E-QM5 stands as the perfect electric vehicle for individuals searching for a harmonious blend of opulence and practicality, offering generous space, an impressive long-distance range, and a suite of cutting-edge driver assistance features. Hongqi’s affordable EV retails at P1.78 million.

H5 midsize sedan

PR ESENTED third was the H5 premium midsize sedan offered in two editions. The entry-level variant powered by a 1.5-liter tur-

bocharged gasoline engine generating 156 hp is priced at P1.65 million. Buyers opting for the higher trim with a more potent 2.0-liter turbocharged motor generating 224 hp, the top-spec retails at P2.68 million.

According to Hongqi, the H5 continues the brand’s grand appearance, featuring a panoramic sunroof and comfortable seats with an eight-point pneumatic massage system. Every driving experience is elevated. With an intelligent ecosystem and a design that pays homage to tradition, the H5 captures the essence of the Hongqi brand.

Hongqi’s Dual-Power Approach

ACCORDING to EVO Xterra, Hongqi’s en-

Lexus Premium wave of the future

LEXUS unveiled last week a radicalized view of car acquisition.

“That’s Lexus Premium for you,” said Raymond T. Rodriguez, president of Lexus Manila Inc. “It takes care of everything—from step one of purchase up to the finish line.”

Vince S. Socco, the affable Lexus chairman, said: “Its hospitality factor has been enhanced further with the triple crucial intervention of Lexus Financial Services, Lexus Insure and Lexus Certified Pre-Owned.”

The much-ballyhooed KINTO One, said Toyota EVP Jing Atienza, also comes into play in the Lexus Premium, the package not requiring a down payment, and allowing customers to enjoy VIP treatment from Day One up to customer service and after-sales assistance.

Customers can also enjoy trade-in perks with speedy assessment of the vehicle’s value. Likewise, your old car of any brand can be quickly upgraded to a Lexus model of your choice.

Here are major excerpts from the speech of Atsuhiro Okamoto, the Lexus PHL presi-

dent, during the launch of Lexus Premium:

“Since 2009, when Lexus first arrived in the Philippines, the brand has made a promise to deliver beyond reliable and beautifully crafted luxury vehicles.

“Today is another testament to that belief and philosophy.

“First off is the launch of Lexus Financial Services. LFS will offer a wide range of financial solutions for clients purchasing any of our Lexus models done The Lexus Way.

“Financing options such as auto loan and finance lease are available whether it’s a brand-new Lexus model or even a Lexus Certified Pre-owned vehicle.

“Customers who prefer a more convenient, hassle-free first-class service can choose KINTO One—an all-inclusive full-service lease. Apart from the inviting and personalized offers curated for each guest—there will also be exclusive benefits tailor-fit to the lifestyles of every Lexus owner.

“In the same suite of services, we will also be introducing Lexus Insure—the solution

trance into the Philippine market signifies the profound commitment to offering diverse mobility solutions to cater to a broad spectrum of preferences and needs. As a brand deeply rooted in tradition yet ceaselessly innovating for the future, Hongqi introduces a captivating blend of battery-electric and petrol-powered vehicles.

The country’s official distributor further claims that the dual approach ensures customers can choose from cutting-edge, ecoconscious electric models or indulge in petrolpowered vehicles’ classic sophistication and performance. Whether the quiet efficiency of electric driving or the exhilaration of traditional combustion engines, Hongqi’s diverse fleet promises to deliver a driving experience that transcends expectations.

Design Excellence LEADING Hongqi’s design transformation is Giles Taylor, the brand’s Global VP of Design and Chief Creative Officer. With a storied career in the automotive industry, Taylor’s name resonates with innovation and excellence. His creative guidance ensures Hongqi’s design philosophy harmoniously blends heritage and modernity, resulting in vehicles that embody craftsmanship and engineering marvels. Under Taylor’s influence, Hongqi’s future design promises to captivate discerning tastes, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to elegance and prestige.

crafted to give a higher and more premium level of protection and assurance to each guest.

“For us, Omotenashi goes beyond the regular insurance package—this will also include superior benefits such as lower premium rates under Lexus Insure.

“To cap it all off, there will also be Lexus Certified Pre-Owned or Lexus CPO available at our premier dealership Lexus Manila.

“This service will offer pre-owned Lexus vehicles, and does not just ensure high quality standards on the car’s condition but also seamless ownership experience…each certified pre-owned client will get the same benefits like every new Lexus owner.

“At Lexus, we take pride in giving our Lexus guests not just a premium ownership but an amazing experience each time they visit us.

“Today, we further stress that in every touch point is granted a luxury experience that is crafted in a personalized manner, and thoughtfully done the Lexus way. Thank you very much for your time and enjoy the rest of the day!”

Seemingly, Lexus does not stop putting premium to excellence.

PEE STOP Shaina Mae Semana reports that Indonesian Andika Rama and Filipino Luis Moreno finished 1-2 in the recent windup of the three-leg GAZOO Racing GT Cup Asia E-Motorsports races. The duo will represent the region in the Global Finals in Barcelona, Spain, in November. All the best, fellas!

Story & photos by Randy

The hongqi e-hS9 full-electric luxury SUV on display

The façade of the new premier dealership