BusinessMirror October 18, 2023 by BusinessMirror

PHL to lose ₧60B in ’23 from illicit cigarette trade

HE country stands to lose at least P60 billion this year due to the proliferation of illicit cigarettes in the market that could reverse gains from the state’s sin taxes in curbing smoking, the head of the House Committee on Ways and Means said. Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda pointed out that the country’s problem with illicit cigarette trade is worsening with the advent of the internet, which made the sale of illegal products more accessible to everyone. “The elephant in the room is that we have a cigarette excise tax collection problem,” Salceda said in his speech in a forum organized by the Sin Tax Coalition on Tuesday in Manila.

Citing his team’s computations, Salceda said the state’s revenue losses this year due to illicit trade in cigarettes would amount to at least P60.6 billion with the total illicit cigarettes circulating in the market reaching about 2.02 billion sticks. The proliferation of illegal cigarettes would also drive the country’s health costs by about P29 billion since smoking prevalence would not be curtailed, Salceda added. “If this continues, [the health] cost [of smoking-related diseases] swells to P217 billion this year,” he said, noting that last year’s health costs were pegged at about P188 billion. Salceda emphasized that the

national government’s cigarette excise tax collections have been declining in recent years at an alarming rate. In 2021, he noted that collections were at 173.9 billion before declining to P160.4 billion in 2022. “ The 2022 decline was the largest ever since the 2012 Sin Tax Reform. The only other time revenues declined over the same period was in 2016, when revenues went down from P100.0 billion in 2015 to just P94.5 billion in 2016,” he said. “The decline in revenues in 2016 was a wake-up call for the government, which decided to strike heavily against Mighty Corporation, which eventually

settled for a P25-billion tax payment. That restored the uninterrupted upward trend in revenue collections, so much so that even in 2020, during the height of the pandemic, revenues still grew,” he added. Salceda said pieces of evidence point to a reduced cigarette consumption due to higher sin taxes. He noted that removals of cigarettes from factories declined from 4.3 billion sticks in 2019 to 3.3 billion sticks in 2020. However, citing the World Bank, Salceda pointed out that the decline in legitimate removals of cigarettes “should not have been that high.” See “Cigarette,” A2

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SLASHING FIRB POWERS, BOOSTING IPA’S, EYED n

SBMA employees welcome tourists from the cruise ship Blue Dream Star, which started its series of port visits in Subic last Thursday. The Philippines on Monday was named Asia’s best cruise ship destination at special awards rites in Dubai, a timely recognition for hubs like Subic. SBMA PHOTO By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

@jearcalas

RESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. wants to reduce the powers of the Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB) and restore the mandate of the investment promotion agencies (IPAs) to grant incentives as part of the amendments to the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act (CREATE), according to a senior lawmaker. See “FIRB,” A2

SUBIC AGOG OVER CRUISE SHIPS’ COMEBACK By Henry Empeño

UBIC BAY FREEPORT— The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is looking forward to regular visits of the cruise ship Blue Dream Star, as the agency revved up its post-Covid 19 pandemic promotions to rev ita lize the loca l tour ism industry. The seven-decked, 24,318ton Liberian-f lagged cruise liner made its second voyage to Subic from Xiamen, China

on Monday, October 16, after becoming the first cruise sh ip to v isit t h is por t si nce t he Cov id pa ndem ic st a l led t he t h r i v i n g c r u i s e s h i p i ndu st r y he re. SBM A Tour ism Depar tment manager Jem Camba said Blue Dream Star, operated by Blue Dream Cruises China, has scheduled 11 port visits to Subic from October 12 to November 21, 2023. “ We a re h appy to we lcome Blue Dream Star to Subic Bay,” Camba said, as

the SBMA Cruise Ship Committee welcomed disembarking passengers at the Boton W harf here. “We expect around 1,000 passengers and more than 300 crew members in Subic Bay each time that Blue Dream Star arrives here every four days,” Camba added. Meanwhile, operators of local tourism establishments here expressed hope that this would spark another surge of See “Subic,” A2

In AI tools use, PHL must ensure fair access

ANILA should come up with policies that ensure equitable access to technology and digital learning resources for all students in its bid to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, according to an official of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). See “AI,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 56.8360 n JAPAN 0.3801 n UK 69.4138 n HK 7.2705 n CHINA 7.7743 n SINGAPORE 41.5468 n AUSTRALIA 36.0170 n EU 60.0245 n KOREA 0.0422 n SAUDI ARABIA 15.1526 Source:

BSP (17 October 2023)

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

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Solon threatens ban on Shopee, Lazada on cigarette sale to kids By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

@jearcalas

OR allowing the sale of illegal cigarettes even to minors, e-commerce platforms like Shopee and Lazada have incurred the ire of the House Ways and Means committee chief.

Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda said he will file a bill that would block them. Salceda said an “outright ban” on e-commerce platforms is necessary to curtail the proliferation of illegal cigarettes as they have made these items more accessible to the public, worse, even to minors. “We will block Lazada and Shopee once and for all for selling cigarettes to minors and not collecting the right taxes because they have the responsibility under the registration that they should be withholding agents also, and

they are not doing that,” Salceda told reporters in an interview on Tuesday. “We will definitely go after them. They allowed it. They have accountability and responsibility for the products that are sold through their platfor ms,” he added. Salceda said they are already drafting the bill what would implement such stringent measure. Nonetheless, Salceda challenged e-commerce platforms like Lazada and Shopee to “prove” that they can “pre-select” their merchants.

“We have been monitoring them. I am challenging Lazada and Shopee to come out,” he said. Salceda said he would also tap the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into the sale of cigarettes through Facebook’s Marketplace. Salceda explained that his staff was able to access fake cigarettes across various online channels, including e-commerce platforms and Facebook. “We succeeded with unbelievable ease. From online shopping websites, we were able to see unstamped cigarettes sold in the open at prices less than half those of licit counterparts,” he said. Salceda said his team found out that brands like H&P Gold were being sold at P380 per ream while President and Two Moon retailed at P399 in the online channels. “Online shops categorize them under everything from ‘Asian herbs’ to ‘T-shirts.’ In the review page, buyers indicated that they bought these cigarettes for their sari-sari stores, indicating that the purchase of these cigarettes online is meant for resale to the

retail market,” he explained. “We also tried to buy on Facebook marketplace. Again, in the open, illicit cigarettes are sold. San Marino, Casablanca, Cannon, Fort, and Bravo brands sell for P350 per ream. Modern, Hotjoy, and J&J sell for P450 per ream. For comparison, a ream of Marlboro reds is at around P1,750,” he added. Salceda added that fake premium brands are “ becoming easier to come by” as they are being

AI. . . Continued from A1

During the 10th Asian Development Bank (ADB) International Skills Forum held in Ortigas on Tuesday, DTI Undersecretary for Competitiveness and Innovation Group Rafaelita M. Aldaba unveiled the challenges that hound the Philippines as it aims to keep pace with the evolution of Artificial Intelligence. The Trade official pointed to a “divide” in the country in terms of access to technology and the internet. “Not all students have equal access to technology and the internet. Some lack the necessary devices or internet connectivity, creating disparities in their ability to benefit from AI-powered educational resources,” Aldaba said at the forum. Aldaba recounted the events during the pandemic, when children would have difficulty obtaining signals in their phones just to download the materials that they need for online classes. On the issue of equity, the Trade official said AI should be used to “ bridge educational disparities, not exacerbate them.” She noted that AI tools should be made accessible and beneficial to all students, including those with disabilities. Apart from addressing issues on equity, Aldaba also highlighted the need to develop and enforce ethical guidelines for the usage of AI. “In education, [it’s] emphasizing

Subic. . . Continued from A1

interest among cruise ship operators in the Asia-pacific region and revive Subic’s eminent brand as a top cruise destination in the country. The Philippines was recently named Asia’s Best Cruise Destination for 2023 at the 3rd World Cruise Awards in Dubai. Subic has launched a successful cruise ship program in 2018 under then SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma Eisma, who had brought into Subic the colossal Spectrum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, which, at 18 decks, are reputed to be two of the biggest and the most expensive cruise ships to sail in Asia. SBMA had already confirmed

sold at half their legitimate price in the same online shopping sites that they looked into. “In other words, in every segment of the market, and in practically every venue for selling, illicit cigarettes are extremely easy to come by,” he said. “There is no challenge to buying these brands. And they sell at as low as 1/5th the price of licit cigarettes. Walang kalaban-laban ang matino [The compliant can’t compete],” he added.

fairness, transparency, accountability, and responsible data-handling,” she said. In research ethics, Aldaba underscored the need to address “considerations” in educational research involving AI and ensuring that participants’ rights and well-being are protected. As for utilizing AI in education, the Trade official said while this tool “holds the promise” of personalized learning and improved outcomes, it must be implemented responsibly with careful consideration of the digital divides, ethical issues and appropriate policies that would safeguard students and educators. Meanwhile, Aldaba revealed that a skills divide is another issue in the country which should be addressed, noting that “Students and educators may have varying levels of digital literacy and proficiency which would affect their ability to effectively use AI tools.” To address these issues, Aldaba underscored the need for the government to craft a “comprehensive plan and a lot of collaboration between and among government, academia, industry, and other stakeholders.” W hile there are challenges hounding the country in terms of utilizing AI, Aldaba said that based on the calculations of EDBI and Kearney for the Philippines, if successfully implemented, AI could result in a US$92-billion contribution to the countr y’s economy, which translates to around 12 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Andrea E. San Juan

38 cruise ship arrivals and two tentative bookings for 2020, as well as four confirmed bookings for 2021 when the Covid-19 pandemic practically aborted all cruise travels around the world in early 2020. Following the emergence of Subic as top cruise ship destination in 2018, Malacañang issued Executive Order 72 in December that year to allow foreign nationals granted visa-free privilege to depart from Subic piers and wharves. This amended E.O. 271 issued in 1995 that covered visa-free departure by foreign visitors at the Subic Bay International Airport. Tourism has traditionally been a major industry in Subic, which boasts of several sea ports, natural attractions, and theme parks. Incumbent SBMA Chairman a n d A d m i n i s t r at o r Jonathan D. Tan, who has anchored his Subic agenda on jobs, development and tourism, said that the freeport has recorded a 99-percent increase in tourist arrivals in 2023, with a cumulative record of 5.15 million visitors and 436,000 tourist arrivals as of June this year.

Cigarette. . . Continued from A1

“Smoking prevalence only declined from 23.4 percent in 2019 to 23.0 percent in 2020. A decline of 1 billion sticks could not have been accounted for by an incidence decline of just 0.4 percentage points alone,” he said. “Something else happened, and it is more logical to suspect that illicit trade accounted for much of the decline in licit removals. While revenue recovery helped mask the problem in 2021, 2022 figures stare us in the face, with the problem becoming more undeniable,” he added. Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

FIRB. . . Continued from A1

Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda said the Executive Branch has reached a “consensus” to remove the right of the FIRB to grant incentives and restore it within the purview of the IPAs. “We will restore the powers of IPAs like SBMA [Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority] and PEZA [Philippine Economic Zone Authority]. They are the ones to grant the incentives,” Salceda said in a press briefing on Tuesday. “It is a consensus policy decision. I get direct instructions from the President to return FIRB back to what it was when it was created—a policy-making body, an oversight body,” Salceda added. Salceda said they plan to pass the bill restoring the powers of the IPA to grant incentives next month. He noted that a counterpart bill in the Senate has been filed already by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri. Salceda described the CREATE law as a “work in progress,” with lawmakers and policy-makers now seeing the necessary improvements to make the legislation more responsive to the needs of investors. Salceda added that the forthcoming amendments to the CREATE law are all geared toward addressing the concerns of investors in the country, particularly foreign ones. Under the Republic Act 11534 or CREATE, the powers and functions of the FIRB were enhanced as part of its oversight mandate. “The FIRB structure under CREATE ensures that apart from tax subsidies, tax incentives are also granted and monitored properly by relevant agencies,” the FIRB said on its website. The FIRB was an interagency body created under Presidential Decree 776 in 1975 with the original mandate of “determining what tax should be withdrawn, revoked or suspended under certain fiscal parameters.” In July, the Department of Finance said the FIRB has approved the grant of incentives to 25 various projects nationwide, with total investments of P287.947 billion during the first year of the Marcos Jr. administration. The projected amount of incentives or the foregone revenues by the state was at nearly P30 billion. (Related story: https:// businessmirror.com. ph/2023/07/31/govtgrants-various-perks-toprojects-of-top-phl-firms/)

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

On alert: Senate also reports ‘spike’ in cyber attacks lately By Butch Fernandez

@butchfBM

DAY after senators sought a formal congressional inquiry into the hacking spree victimizing government agencies, the Senate itself was reported to be “on alert” after seeing a surge in cyber attacks on Sunday, when the House of Representatives reported its website having been defaced. “As soon as we learned of the House of Representatives website hacking, our team went on alert and continuous monitoring,” Senate Secretary Renato Bantug Jr. said on Tuesday, according to a CNN Philippines report. According to Bantug, the Senate already has an application firewall, which helps protect the website, but its technology team “made adjustments” to bolster security. “Per our IT, we recorded a spike in attacks last Sunday,” he said in the CNN Philippines report. Earlier on Monday, senators pressed for quick, decisive action from authorities to put a stop to the alarming hacking spree victimizing government a ge nc ie s, comprom i s i n g t he personal data of millions and jeopardizing public ser vice. Senator Grace Poe prodded concerned agencies led by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to promptly deal with the problem. “The DICT and concerned agencies must put a halt to what is turning out to be a hacking spree of government websites,” Poe stressed, reminding, “at stake are not only important government records, but sensitive data that could compromise the country’s security.”

For her part, Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros filed Senate Resolution 829 calling for the appropriate committee to conduct an investigation in aid of legislation “into the troubling series of hacking and data breach incidents involving government agencies, the sufficiency of prevailing cybersecurity measures in government, and government preparedness for malicious cyber attacks.” At the same time, Poe pointed out “data breaches also jeopardize personal information of the people, whose own accounts may be subjected to hacking or unwanted exposures.” Moreover, Poe suggested that departments and agencies must invest in strong cyber security infrastructures to safeguard public records.” In a previous Senate public service panel hearing she presided, Poe reminded that the so-called business as usual is long gone, saying: “Hindi na pwedeng business as usual at maghintay na lang sa susunod na biktima ng data breach.’ Before the House of Representatives website hacking, PhilHealth was victim of a massive theft of personal data of millions of members, whose data was offered for sale on the dark web. After PhilHealth, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) also reported falling victim to hackers. The series of hackings have prodded lawmakers to rethink the budget cuts earlier made to the 2024 appropriations of the Department of Information and Communications Technology with officials saying cyber security was just as important as beefing up the West Philippine Sea units.

AFP chief, UK envoy meet to discuss defense relations amid WPS tension

RMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and United Kingdom (UK) Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils met Monday to discuss the defense partnership of the two nations amid pressing issues in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). “The two agreed on being more vocal in common defense and diplomatic positions particularly in the situation in the WPS and agreed to explore other means to demonstrate and enhance the partnership between the Philippines and the UK,” AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Enrico Gil Ileto said in a statement. Beaufils visited AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Monday and was welcomed by Brawner and other ranking military officials. “The Ambassador also shared that London notices the ‘strong position and bold moves’ being made by the present administration in addressing the security challenges in the WPS amid China’s

dangerous, coercive, illegal, and disruptive actions,” Ileto said. Beaufils also said that the collective effort of like-minded nations to shed light on what’s happening in the region resonates with the UK. “The CSAFP [Chief of Staff, AFP] likewise thanked the ambassador for their government’s non-military assistance and support like UNCLOS [United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea] education and in confronting climate and environmental issues,” Ileto added. As this developed, ranking officials of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) conducted its first “Air Staff Talks” (AST) on October 12 and 13 in Tokyo. “The AST reaffirmed the strong bilateral relations between the PAF and JASDF and served as a platform to discuss ways to further strengthen cooperation on matters of mutual interests at the Air Force level,” PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said. Rex Anthony Naval

Proposed Hamas inclusion in PHL terror group list not meant to curry favor–NSC

HE Philippines is not seeking the approval or any concessions from the United States and Israel in deciding to have Hamas included in the country’s terrorist group list. “Ito pong ginagawa nating pag-deklara sa [the decision to include] Hamas as a terrorist organization [in our list of terrorist groups] ay para protektahan din ang ating mga kababayan [was done to protect our citizens] This is also a domestic act on the part of the Philippines para masiguro natin iyong seguridad ng ating mga kababayan at hindi maulit iyong mga nangyayari sa Gaza sa ating mga kababayan [to ensure the security of all Filipino citizens and to ensure that what happened in Gaza won’t happen to our fellow Filipinos],” National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said in a “Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon” briefing Monday.

He also clarified that this decision was not instigated either by the US or Israel. “We are doing it, again, because of our national interest. So, irrespective kung makapuntos tayo sa Estados Unidos o sa ibang mga bansa [it is irrespective of whether we gain points or favor from the US or any other country],” Malaya clarified. National Security Adviser (NSA) and NSC chair Eduardo Año earlier announced that he will push for the designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization under the country’s anti-terrorism law. “In solidarity with the people of Israel, we will push for the designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization under RA [Republic Act]11479 as a priority agenda of the AntiTerrorism Council,” he said. RA 11479 is also known as the “AntiTerrorism Act of 2020.” Rex Anthony Naval

Watchdog records 87 percent jump in online child sexual abuse cases

By Rex Anthony Naval

CHILD exploitation watchdog on Tuesday reported an 87 percent increase in child sexual abuse material cases since 2019.

WeProtect Global Alliance, in its fourth Global Threat Assessment Report, said there are over 32 million reported cases globally. The report, quoting the Internet Watch Foundation, also found out there has been a 360 percent increase in self-generated sexual imagery of 7-10-year-olds from 2020 to 2022. The findings underscore the pressing need for a coordinated, multi-faceted response to protect the world ’s children from this escalating threat. “Shockingly, it was also revealed that conversations with children on social gaming platforms could escalate into high-risk grooming situations within 19 seconds, with an average grooming time of just 45 minutes. Social gaming environments that facilitate adult-child intermingling, exchanging virtual gifts, and public ranking systems significantly increase these risks,”

the group noted. The research found a significant rise in financial sexual extortion, with reports of the harm jumping from 139 in 2021 to over 10,000 reports in 2022. These involve per petrators grooming and manipulating children into sharing sexual images and videos of themselves and then extorting them for monetary gain. Many extortionists pose as young girls online and predominantly approach boys aged between 15-17 years old via social media. WeProtect Global Alliance said the phenomenon has resulted in a string of cases where children commit suicide. “New technology is heightening the threats that children face online. Since early 2023, cases of perpetrators also using generative artificial intelligence [AI] to create child sexual abuse material and exploit children

have been increasing. (It was also) found that while less than 1 percent of child sexual abuse material files shared in a sample of offender communities are currently photorealistic computergenerated imagery (CGI) of child sexual abuse, the volume has increased consistently since August 2022,” it added. In a related development, Australia last month, and in a global first, put in place measures that require big tech companies to take steps to ensure AI products cannot be used to generate deepfake images and videos of child sexual abuse. “Our latest report shows the scale of the threat children face online. Online-facilitated child sexual exploitation and abuse worldwide demands our attention and action right now. New technological capabilities further exacerbate existing risks, and the situation is no different in The Philippines,” WeProtect Global Alliance executive director Iain Drennan said. He added that children’s safety must be non-negotiable. “ To prevent more children from coming to harm, governments, online service providers, charities, and companies must step up their efforts and work together to drive change and

Bill mandates stringent requisites in pawning of 2nd hand cell phones

LAWMAKER has filed a measure mandating establishments accepting used smartphones as pawned goods to require proof of ownership or purchase before acquiring them as a means to prevent street crimes involving the theft of these items. Under House Bill (HB) 7969 filed by Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan, pawnshops or other establishments buying second-hand telecommunications equipment, such as mobile phones are also required to ask

the seller to obtain the necessary clearance from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to sell or pawn the article. The establishment should also secure a clearance or permit from the station commander of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the town or city where it is located before buying the item. “These requirements may appear to be cumbersome, but they are necessary to prevent the rise in street crimes involving the stealing of smartphones, which not only lead to loss of property

but, in some unfortunate cases, to loss of lives as well,” said Yamsuan, a former assistant secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Street crimes involving cellphone theft appear to have increased when pawnshops started accepting smartphones as pawned items, Yamsuan said. In 2019, the NTC received a total of 34,353-cell phone blocking requests and concerns, which indicated that these goods were lost or stolen. This number corresponds

protect children,” Drennan said Meanwhile, IJM’s Centre To End Online Sexual Exploitation Of Children, International Justice Commission executive director John Tanagho, said reports of child sexual abuse online is escalating is a reminder that the time for change is now. “Its finding that sexual imagery of 7-10-year-old children is on the rise should outrage policymakers and corporate executives alike. The report underscores IJM’s recent Scale of Harm finding that nearly half a million Filipino children were sexually abused to create images, videos, and livestreams for sale to offenders globally in 2022 alone,” he added. Tanagho also said children everywhere urgently need tech companies to deploy safety by design to augment justice system responses and prevent abuse at scale. “Online safety regulation, especially in countries home to offenders fueling demand for abuse, is critical to create industry-wide action to protect children online. The Philippine Survivor Network and other survivors are advocating for online safety bills, and their voices remain central in d r i v i n g e f f e c t i v e re s p o n s e s globally,” he added.

to an average of 2,863 cell phone blocking requests per month. HB 7969, which Yamsuan filed with Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte, aims to amend Presidential Decree No. 1612, or the AntiFencing law, to include provisions requiring establishments to be stricter and more circumspect in accepting smartphones and other telecommunications gadgets being sold or pawned. Any establishment that fails to get the necessary clearance and proof of purchase or ownership before accepting or buying a second-hand mobile phone shall be held liable for violating the AntiFencing law, and its permit or license to operate shall be revoked, as proposed under the bill. Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

Creation of humanitarian corridor in southern Gaza pushed in House

SENIOR law maker has strongly supported the establishment of humanitarian corridors in southern Gaza to facilitate the safe evacuation of innocent civilians, including overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), as he called on government agencies to enhance their reintegration and assistance plan for OFWs working in the Gaza Strip or Israel who wish to return home amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte said this evacuation is particularly crucial given the impending ground assault by the Israeli military, which aims to dismantle the militant Islamist group Hamas, located in the northern part of the besieged Palestinian enclave. A humanitarian corridor is a designated entry or exit point where both conflicting parties agree to a temporary ceasefire to allow the safe passage of civilians. Currently, the primary exit route available is the Rafah Crossing on the border of northeast Egypt, which leads to Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. Villafuerte, along with Speaker Martin Romualdez, expressed deep concern for the safety of OFWs in Gaza and Israel. They

suggested that mercy flights for the evacuation of Filipino migrant workers don’t necessarily have to land directly in Israel, as there are alternative safe airports in Egypt and Jordan. According to a media report, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega stated that Egyptian authorities have agreed to allow Filipinos to cross into Egypt as soon as the passage for Gaza residents is opened. The DFA plans to repatriate OFWs and the remains of three Filipino caregivers who have lost their lives in the conflict through Egypt. As of now, at least 92 OFWs in Gaza and 22 in Israel have expressed their desire to return to the Philippines, and their repatriation expenses will be covered by the DMW and its Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. Villafuerte emphasized the importance of creating a humanitarian corridor in southern Gaza, led by international institutions like the United Nations, to ensure the safety of innocent civilians, especially OFWs, before the Israeli Defense Forces initiate their land incursion into Gaza City, controlled by Hamas. This will also enable the prompt repatriation of the three Filipino casualties.

Gaza is one of the two Palestinian territories, situated between Israel and Egypt along the Mediterranean coast, and home to over 2 million people. The other Palestinian territory is the West Bank, bordering Jordan.

Go calls for swift action

SENATOR Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, meanwhile, voiced his concerns on the dangers faced by the Filipino community in Gaza and Israel due to the continuing hostilities between Israel and Hamas. Go underscored the indiscriminate nature of the crisis stating, “Bullets know no color nor creed. The urgent need of the hour is to support de-escalation and peace.” Being a vice chair of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, he voiced specific apprehensions regarding the dangerous situation of Filipinos caught in the crossfire, and stressed the immediate necessity to facilitate safe exit pathways for those desiring to leave Gaza, or to establish recognized sanctuaries as mandated by international humanitarian law. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Advisory Level 4 is issued in severe situations where there is either a “ large-scale

internal conflict or full-blown external attack ” in a particular region or country. Upon the announcement of Alert Level 4, a phase of evacuation or mandatory repatriation is initiated to ensure the safety and security of individuals, especially Filipinos abroad, by moving them out of harm’s way. Go firmly said that the advisory should be accompanied by prompt actions from the government to safeguard the Filipino community. “The latest DFA advisory is a stark reminder of the harsh realities on the ground. It’s imperative that we, as a government, act with speed and deliberation to keep our fellow countrymen out of harm’s way,” said Go. Acknowledging his role as a legislator, Go pledged to work alongside his Senate colleagues in supporting any and all endeavors aimed at ensuring the safety and security of Filipinos in the troubled regions. “I, alongside my esteemed colleagues in the Senate, am fully committed to supporting any initiatives aimed at securing the well-being of our fellow Filipinos in these affected areas,” affirmed the senator. Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • www.businessmirror.com.ph

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

DTI aims to create warehouse database DOST-funded biomass power plant to also benefit Davao IPs amid agri products smuggling, hoarding D By Manuel T. Cayon @awimailbox

By Andrea E. San Juan

six months because there’s only a onetime harvest and you have to store the harvest and sell over time,” the Trade chief noted. Pascual also agreed that this has to be understood better by the public. The three-year food logistics action agenda has been developed by DTI in collaboration with the Departments of Agriculture, Transportation, Public Works and Highways and Information and Communications and other partners. It is in compliance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision to make the Philippines a logistics hub in Asia. Marcos approved this plan in August. According to Pascual, this is a program developed by the DTI to mitigate

inflation on a “medium-term” basis, particularly designed to cut down the number of intermediaries between farmers and consumers. This plan also involves the setting up of food hubs and making the country’ logistics system more efficient and having enough cold chain storages for agricultural products. The logistics action agenda also underscored the intensified drive against hoarding, smuggling, overstaying food imports, and the monitoring of warehouses or cold storage facilities. (Full story here: https://businessmirror. com.ph/2023/08/31/three-yearfood-logistics-plan-also-seeks-tobolster-drive-vs-hoarders/)

Singapore-based tutorial start-up ready to hire 100 Filipino tutors

ERC urged: Complete WACC reset, help poor

@andreasanjuan

HE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is aiming to establish a database for warehouses across the country under the three-year logistics action agenda to enable the government to monitor goods stored inside warehouses to combat smuggling of agricultural goods. Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual said the country currently does not have a “registry” of warehouses. With this, he pointed out the need to develop such, as it is difficult to collect data from each municipality. “Part of the three-year food logistics

AVAO CITY—A Singapore-based tutorial company announced it was ready to hire “high-quality, online tutors” for clients across the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific immediately after it also disclosed a successful round of seed funding for its operation. The educational technology start-up in Singapore, Edge Tutor International, said it has more than 100 openings for both team members and tutor roles and those interested may “explore opportunities on their LinkedIn and Kalibrr pages.” “Currently, Edge Tutor has successfully trained over 1,300 licensed teachers in evidence-based methodologies and strategies for online teaching,” it said in a statement sent to the BusinessMirror on Monday. It said its current crop of teachers “undergo a rigorous screening process, with only 5 percent of applicants being accepted. All teachers possess the necessary certifications and participate in regular training to continuously enhance their skills.”

action agenda that we developed is the establishment of a warehouse registry,” Pascual said in a televised interview on Monday. The Trade chief said the objective of this database is to “know where the warehouses are and what they are for, and hopefully in due time we will also be able to track what’s inside the warehouse.” Pascual said there has been a finding in some cases where a number of warehouses could be raided because a lot of products are stored within the warehouses. “That has been the finding in some cases or you know it’s because they’re keeping supply like it’s cold storage for

The company said “these engaged and competitively priced tutors are made available to tutoring companies across 20+ countries in the Americas, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region.” It said beefing up its work force of tutors came after it announced the successful completion of its seed round, “securing an undisclosed amount in funding,” according to founder and CEO Henry Motte-de la Motte. It said Motte-de la Motte has a team of “seasoned professionals with a combined experience of five decades in recruiting, training, managing, and developing worldclass Filipino teachers from distinguished organizations such as Education First, 51Talk, and VIPKID.” The company said the seed round was led by M V Partners and Seaborne Capital. Additionally, Kaya Founders, Ideaspace, Or vel Ventures, Lorinet Foundation, PayMongo CEO Jojo Malolos, Kalibrr CEO Paul Rivera, and Foxmont Co-founder Mark Kooijman participated in the round.

It said the “secured funds will be utilized to expedite growth in these markets, expand tutor operations, and enrich the product lineup.” “We are thrilled about the rapid growth of Edge Tutor and remain intensely focused on scaling up with both existing and new clients, reinforcing tutor operations, and aiming for profitability by the next year,” Motte-de la Motte said. The company also announced the hiring of one Cecilia Calvo as its chief operating officer. “Calvo attributes the growth of Edge Tutor to the dedication of tutors who have been passionately supporting students since day one.” “We strategically partnered with global tutoring leaders who share our deep appreciation for educators, recognizing their scarcity as a valuable resource. Our approach to addressing the global teacher shortage is centered on unleashing the potential of Filipino teachers worldwide,” Calvo said. Manuel T. Cayon

DOLE tells employers to ‘properly’ pay workers in Oct, Nov holidays

HE Department of Labor and E m p l o y m e n t ( D O L E ) re m i n d e d employers to observe proper payment of workers’ wages on declared holidays in October and November. In Labor Advisory 24-23, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma specified the proper wage computation for the declared special, non-working holidays on October 30, November 1 and 2, including the regular holiday on November 27. The “no work, no pay” principle shall apply, unless there is a favorable company policy or

collective bargaining agreement granting payment on a special day. For work done during the special day, employees shall be paid an additional 30 percent of their basic wage on the first eight hours of work. Meanwhile, for overtime work, the employee shall be paid an additional 30 percent of the hourly rate on the said day. The employer shall pay an additional 50 percent of the basic wage on the first eight hours of work if an employee works on a special day but falls on a rest day.

Overtime work on a special day that also falls on the employee’s rest day shall privilege workers an additional 30 percent of their hourly rate on the said day. The advisory also specified the proper computation of wages for employees who will report for work on November 27, a regular holiday. Employees who will not report for work will receive 100 percent of their daily wage, provided they are on leave of absence with pay on the day immediately preceding the regular holiday, the advisory read. Patrick V. Miguel

Continued from A18 While ERC officials recently assured senators that its reset process for the WACC rate for the NGCP is now complete, Hontiveros still hopes that the full reset report will be made public “sooner than later,” since the lowering of NGCP’s WACC “has been especially long overdue.” She also wants an end to the “passon” charges to consumers among the NGCP expenses that have “nothing to do with its transmission operations,” Hontiveros added. Likewise, Hontiveros asked ERC to prioritize the completion and release of the review and reset process for the WACC of Meralco and other distribution utilities, which the ERC also confirmed to be underway. “For the sake of our consumers, ERC should not allow anything to slow down or halt the WACC reset process for Meralco and the distribution sector. We need the WACC reset for a fair transmission and distribution [playing field],” Hontiveros said. “It’s time for ERC to get its act together, and use its regulatory powers to protect the interests of consumers who are dealing with high prices of basic goods and services. Ordinary Filipino households try to stretch meager incomes for rising costs of food, fare and schooling costs. Let’s prioritize the welfare of those who bear the burden of expensive electricity,” Hontiveros concluded.

Butch Fernandez

AVAO CITY—A biomass-ran power plant eyed for operation in Davao del Norte would provide electricity to the tribal communities in the province, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), which would fund the project, said. It said its biomass power plant project is set to operate in Kapalong, Davao del Norte and would provide electricity and livelihood to Manobos and neighboring indigenous people’s (IP) communities. The biomass power plant would have a capacity of 10 kilowatts, enough to light up the scattered households of IP communities in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro. The areas are those in the geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, where tribal communities such as the Manobos live. Senator Francis Tolentino led the groundbreaking of the Microgridterprises project in Kapalong town and assured the community that the national government, including DOST, “is committed to extending services to the remote areas of the country.” “I hope that when this facility opens, you can truly benefit from it,” he said.

DOST Davao Assistant Regional Director, Ms. Mirasol Domingo, who represented DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., also assured the community that the project “is only one of the many initiatives that the DOST is doing to ensure inclusive development.” “Soon we will bring more programs of the DOST for the good of all,” she added. The DOST said that the technology would have economic and environmental advantages for the community “as it produces electricity without costs and is also a sustainable energy option.”It added that the project is also aligned with the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goal 7, “which ensures access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.” Datu Ledio Man-Akil, one of the community leaders, said “Tanan na kakulangan namo diri inyoha nang nakita, busa ipaabot gyud namo among pasalamat sa pagtuman sa among pangandoy ilabi na ang pasuga. [You have already seen our situation here so we extend our gratitude for granting our hopes for our community especially the electrification project].” The project tapped the Oro Energy Resources Corporation, AGAK Marketing Cooperative, University of Southeastern Philippines, and Ateneo de Davao University as partners.

Group calls for clean, ‘eco-friendly’ polls

N advocacy group for a zero waste and toxics-free society appealed to candidates running for elective Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan posts to think of Mother Earth as the campaign leading to the October 30 elections begin on Thursday. The group gathered outside the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Intramuros, Manila on Tuesday morning for a last-minute reminder to all poll aspirants to commit to a clean and eco-friendly campaign. “Amid the triple planetary crises—climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss—we ask those aspiring to serve our communities to demonstrate their commitment to protecting the environment by campaigning in a way that will not worsen the problems that our communities are facing, especially on plastic and garbage,” said Ochie Tolentino, Zero Waste Campaigner, EcoWaste Coalition. “Candidates, in their strong drive to win, usually forget that they have a responsibility to ensure that campaign activities do not lead to the further degradation of our environment,” she noted. “We therefore ask all candidates, as well as their supporters, to be respectful of the environment and avoid practices that squander resources, generate trash, and bring about pollution that can endanger the health and wellbeing of their constituents,” she emphasized. During the short program, speakers drew attention to common practices that can put the health of the people and the ecosystems at risk, such as the 1) reckless use and disposal of plastic

tarpaulins laden with hazardous chemicals, 2) excessive production of campaign materials beyond what is legally allowed, 3) nailing and hanging of campaign posters on trees and other forbidden spots, 4) throwing confetti, releasing balloons and lighting firecrackers in rallies, 5) littering in campaign events and during the polling day itself, 6) dumping and burning of campaign waste, and 7) failure to take down campaign materials and clean up after the elections. They also put forward some reminders to make the campaign less stressful for Mother Earth, including 1) using recyclable and non-toxic campaign materials, 2) avoiding single-use plastics, 3) practicing ecological solid waste management in campaign events, 4) zero tolerance on acts prohibited by Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, such as littering, open burning and dumping, 5) finding appropriate uses for used campaign materials, and 6) conducting rapid post-campaign clean up, win or lose. “The eco-friendly conduct of the synchronized elections for barangay and youth leaders will surely yield tangible benefits for Mother Earth, especially if resources are judiciously used and environmental pollution is avoided, among others,” said Tolentino. Finally, the group urged voters to be more discerning in choosing whom to support and to vote for candidates who have the heart to serve the people and the environment in words and deeds. Jonathan L. Mayuga

www.businessmirror.com.ph | Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug

News BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Republic of the Philippines

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

Lot 3 & 4, Block 12, First Cavite Industrial Estate, Langkaan I, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite

October 18, 2023 NOTICE OF FILING OF APPLICATION/S FOR ALIEN EMPLOYMENT PERMIT/S (AEP/S) Notice is hereby given that the following companies/employers have filed with this Regional Office application/s for Alien Employment Permit/s:

NO.

ESTABLISHMENT

3A FOUNDATION CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION Centenial Road, Marulas, Kawit, Cavite

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL, POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

FAN, LYUJIA

Basic Qualification:

Mandarin Field Service Coordinator

Must have proven experience as a Field Coordinator; familiar, knowledgeable and aware of machinery and heavy equipment used by the company.

Brief Job Description: Manage their work schedules that ensure they complete all their jobs on time

HARADA AUTOMOTIVE ANTENNA (PHILIPPINES), INC.

LEADEN PHILIPPINES, INC. Lot 5 Block 9-B, Phase III, Lima Technology Center, Bugtong Na Pulo, City of Lipa, Batangas

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Salary Range:

3A FOUNDATION CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION Centenial Road, Marulas, Kawit, Cavite

SUN, QI

Basic Qualification:

Mandarin Project Coordinator

Must be College graduate and fluent in Mandarin and familiar with risk management and quality assurance control

Brief Job Description: Assist the Project Manager in the development of project management documents such as project budgets, project schedules, scope statements and project plans

3A FOUNDATION CONSTRUCTION CORPORATION Centenial Road, Marulas, Kawit, Cavite

AL-BAYT CIVIL ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION 50, Esligue Street, Poblacion, Malvar, Batangas

Php30,000 Php59,999

Mandarin Project Coordinator

Must be College graduate and fluent in Mandarin and familiar with risk management and quality assurance control

Salary Range:

Basic Qualification:

Project Manager

Brief Job Description:

Must have Bachelor’s degree and with 4 years work experience as Project Manager

Collaborate with engineers, architects etc. to determine the specifications of the project

Salary Range:

Basic Qualification:

Project Manager

Must have Bachelor’s degree and with 4 years work experience as Project Manager

COVAC PHILIPPINES, INC. Blk 6-13 and 6-15, Amplefield SME Park, J.P. Rizal Avenue, Lima Technology Center, Bugtong Na Pulo, City of Lipa, Batangas

Basic Qualification:

Engineering Manager

With knowledge in synthetic and silicon rubber and must have 10 years’ experience in rubber manufacturing industry

Assist and support the President in the administration and direction of the dayto-day affairs of the corporation

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Block 3, Cavite Economic Zone II, Bacao II, City of General Trias, Cavite

FUKUNAGA, TOSHIYUKI

Basic Qualification:

Adviser-Kouzou Panel

Must be fluent in Japanese language and can possess managerial and supervisory skills

Brief Job Description: In charge of product research of panel items, deal and communicate with other Japanese to coordinate product developments and new ideas

H.R.D. SINGAPORE PTE LTD Block 3, Cavite Economic Zone II, Bacao II, City of General Trias, Cavite

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Brief Job Description: Develop and implement purchasing strategies

Salary Range:

SAI WATHAN NAY WIN

Basic Qualification:

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Adviser-R&D Sheet Metal

Can possess managerial and supervisory skills

Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Salary Range: Php150,000 Php499,999

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

YU MAW THWE

Basic Qualification:

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Burmese language

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

SUN, HAO

Basic Qualification:

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

WAN, WENQIANG

Basic Qualification:

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

WANG, BAOCHEN

Basic Qualification:

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

WANG, MINGFENG

Basic Qualification:

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Brief Job Description:

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Salary Range:

TUN TUN OO

Brief Job Description:

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Php150,000 Php499,999 Basic Qualification:

Salary Range:

THUREIN TUN

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Php30,000 Php59,999

Burmese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Php60,000 Php89,999

SAN MYINT WIN

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

HARA, TOMOHIRO

Supervise sheet metal system functions and improvement

Must have excellent communication skills in Nihongo

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Php90,000 Php149,999 H.R.D. SINGAPORE PTE LTD

Purchasing Manager

Brief Job Description:

Php90,000 Php149,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Salary Range:

HASHIMOTO, KAZUYUKI

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

Provides advisory role to production engineering with regards to new product design

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

OKUYAMA, HITOSHI

Brief Job Description:

Php30,000 Php59,999 6

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

XU, YAN

Collaborate with engineers, architects etc. to determine the specifications of the project

Must have knowledge in product design

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Php30,000 Php59,999

LUO, QINGZHENG

Brief Job Description:

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Php30,000 Php59,999 5

Production Engineering Senior Advisor

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

Basic Qualification:

Assist the Project manager in the development of project management documents such as project budgets, project schedules, scope statements and project plans

Basic Qualification:

Brief Job Description:

TAN, JINQING

Brief Job Description:

KOMIYAMA, FUMIO

Brief Job Description:

Php30,000 Php59,999 2

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph 20

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

SIA CHAI YUNG

Basic Qualification:

Malaysian Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Malaysian language

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Brief Job Description:

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Salary Range:

CHEN, BIN

Basic Qualification:

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 22

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Php30,000 Php59,999

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Php30,000 Php59,999

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Php30,000 Php59,999

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Php30,000 Php59,999

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Basic Qualification:

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Php30,000 Php59,999

LIU, CHUANSHUN

Basic Qualification:

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

LYU, CHENG Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. Island Cove II, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

ZHANG, KAIXUAN

Basic Qualification:

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

ZHANG, QIWEI

Basic Qualification:

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

ZHANG, ZIQIANG

Basic Qualification:

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

ZHOU, DONGCHAO

Basic Qualification:

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Brief Job Description: Brief Job Description:

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

XU, ZIXU

Brief Job Description: Salary Range:

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

XIONG, FENG

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Salary Range:

WU, FENG

Brief Job Description:

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

WANG, YADONG

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

LI, JIANXIN

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Brief Job Description:

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Salary Range:

LI, GUOHUI

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Php30,000 Php59,999

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description:

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Salary Range:

WANG, NING

Brief Job Description:

LI, CHUANG

Brief Job Description:

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description:

LI, BIYING

Brief Job Description:

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

37 26

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Salary Range:

WANG, BOLONG

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP.

Brief Job Description:

JIANG, GUANWEN

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Brief Job Description:

HUANG, GANWEI

Brief Job Description:

Php30,000 Php59,999 Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range:

Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description:

Basic Qualification:

Brief Job Description:

Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 23

Php30,000 Php59,999

HUANG, BINGRONG

Brief Job Description:

TANG, XIANGMAO

Brief Job Description:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Brief Job Description:

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

The World Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Editor: Angel R. Calso

Palestinians report intense bombardments in south Gaza where civilians seek refuge By Najib Jobain, Ravi Nessman The Associated Press

H A N YOU N IS, Ga z a Str ip—Pa lestinians in Gaza reported intense bombardments near the southern towns of Khan Younis and Rafah, where Israel ordered civilians to seek refuge, early Tuesday. Details of causalities were not immediately available. Israeli bombs hit areas west and southeast of Khan Younis and west of Rafah, according to local reports. Thousands of people trying to escape Gaza are gathered in Rafah, which contains the territory’s only border crossing to Egypt, as international mediators press for a deal to allow aid in and refugees with foreign passports out. The US hoped to break a deadlock over delivering aid to increasingly desperate civilians in besieged Gaza following a brutal attack by Hamas militants, as President Joe Biden was set to head to Israel and Jordan on Wednesday. Aid workers warned that life in Gaza was near complete collapse because of the Israeli siege, with hundreds of thousands of people seeking shelter, ever-decreasing water supplies and power running out at hospitals. At the Rafah crossing, Gaza’s only connection to Egypt, truckloads of aid were waiting to go into the tiny, densely populated territory, and trapped civilians— many of them Palestinians with dual nationalities—were hoping desperately to get out. Mediators were trying to reach a cease-fire to open the border, which shut down last week after Israeli airstrikes, but by early Tuesday it was unclear who was keeping the crossing closed. Gen. Erik Kurilla, the head of US Central Command, arrived in Tel Aviv for meetings with Israeli military authorities ahead of a Biden visit planned for Wednesday to signal White House support for the country. Biden will also travel to Jordan to meet with Arab leaders amid fears that the fighting could expand into a broader regional conflict. US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, who had returned to Israel after a six-country tour through Arab nations, said in Tel Aviv that the US and Israel had agreed to develop a plan to enable humanitarian aid to reach civilians in Gaza. There were few details, but the plan would include “the possibility of creating areas to help keep civilians out of harm’s way.” Israel maintained punishing

airstrikes across Gaza as a ground invasion loomed, while Hamas militants kept up a barrage of rocket attacks, and tensions mounted near the Israel-Lebanon border. At least 2,778 people have been killed and 9,700 wounded in Gaza, according to the Health Ministry there. More than 1,400 Israelis have been killed, the vast majority civilians massacred in Hamas’ October 7 assault. The combination of airstrikes, dwindling supplies and Israel’s mass evacuation order for the north of the Gaza Strip has thrown the tiny territory’s 2.3 million people into upheaval and caused increasing desperation. More than 1 million Palestinians have fled their homes, and 60 percent are now in the approximately 14-kilometer-long (8 mile) area south of the evacuation zone, according to the UN In Gaza, hospitals were on the verge of losing electricity, threatening the lives of thousands of patients, and hundreds of thousands of Palestinians displaced from their homes searched for bread. With taps dry, many have resorted to drinking dirty or sewage-filled water, risking the spread of disease. The Israeli military says it is trying to clear civilians for their safety ahead of a major campaign against Hamas in Gaza’s north, where it says the militants have extensive networks of tunnels and rocket launchers. Much of Hamas’ military infrastructure is in residential areas. Those fleeing northern Gaza still faced airstrikes in the south. Before dawn Monday, a strike in the town of Rafah collapsed a building sheltering three families who had evacuated from Gaza City. At least 12 people were killed and nine others remained buried under rubble, survivors said. Israel evacuated towns near its northern border with Lebanon, where the military has exchanged fire repeatedly with the Iranianbacked Hezbollah group. Israel fought a vicious month-long war with Hezbollah in 2006 that ended in a stalemate and a tense detente between the two sides. Speaking to the Israeli Knesset, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Iran and Hezbollah, “Don’t test us in the north. Don’t make the mistake of the past. Today, the price you will pay will be far heavier.” Soon after he spoke, the Knesset floor was evacuated as rockets headed toward Jerusalem. Sirens in Tel Aviv prompted US and Israeli officials to take shelter in a bunker, officials said.

Iran’s foreign minister, meanwhile, warned that “preemptive action is possible” if Israel moves closer to a ground offensive. Hossein Amirabdollahian’s threat followed a pattern of escalating rhetoric from Iran, which supports Hamas and Hezbollah. The Israeli military said Monday that at least 199 hostages were taken into Gaza, more than prev iously estimated. Hamas said it was holding 200 to 250 hostages. Hamas’ military wing released a hostage video showing a dazed woman having her arm wrapped with bandages. The woman, who identified herself as Mia Schem, 21, rocked slightly as she spoke, the sound of explosions reverberating in the background. Schem was taken from Kibbutz Reim, where she was attending a rave. Hamas said she had undergone a three-hour operation. The plight of the hostages has dominated the Israeli media since the attack, with interviews with their relatives playing on telev ision a lmost constantly. Israeli officials have vowed to maintain the siege of Gaza until the hostages are released. In Gaza, more than 400,000 displaced people in the south crowded into schools and other facilities of the UN agency for Palestinians. But the agency said it has only 1 liter of water a day for each of its staff members trapped in the territory. “Gaza is running out of water, and Gaza is running out of life,” said UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini, calling for a lifting of the siege. “We need this now.” Hospitals are expected to run out of generator fuel in the next 24 hours, meaning life-saving equipment like incubators and ventilators will stop functioning and putting thousands of lives at risk, the UN said. Yet doctors and many hospital staff have refused to evacuate, saying it would mean death for critically ill patients and newborns on ventilators. In northern Gaza, unknown numbers remained, either unwilling or unable to leave. Hamas urged people to ignore the evacuation order. The Israeli military on Sunday released photos it said showed a Hamas roadblock preventing traffic from moving south.

Kullab reported from Baghdad. Krauss reported from Jerusalem. Associated Press writers Julia Frankel and Amy Teibel in Jerusalem, Abby Sewell in Beirut and Samy Magdy in Cairo contributed to this report.

President Biden didn’t make Israeli-Palestinian talks a priority, region now pays the price–Arab leaders By Ellen Knickmeyer The Associated Press

ASHINGTON—From its first months in office, the Biden administration made a distinctive decision on its Middle East policy: It would deprioritize a halfcentury of high-profile efforts by past US presidents, particularly Democratic ones, to broker a broad and lasting peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians. Since Richard Nixon, successive US administrations have tried their hands at Camp David summits, shuttle diplomacy and other big-picture tries at coaxing Israeli and Palestinian leaders into talks to settle the disputes that underlie 75 years of Middle East tensions. More than other recent presidents, Joe Biden notably has not. Instead, administration officials early on sketched out what they called Biden’s policy of quiet diplomacy. They advocated for more modest improvements in

Palestinian freedoms and living conditions under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s hardline government, which has encouraged settlement in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and which includes coalition partners that oppose the US-backed two-state solution. The less-ambitious approach fit with Biden’s determination to pivot his foreign-policy focus from Middle East hotspots to China. But the long-term risks of sidelining the Israeli-Palestinian conflict exploded back into view with the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7 and Israel’s heavy bombardment of Gaza in response. The United States’ angry Arab partners are pointing to America’s failure to actively engage as Israeli-Palestinian violence roars back to center stage. Hamas militants’ bloody breakout from Gaza and Israel’s military escalating response have killed thousands of civilians in Israel and Gaza, prompted Biden to deploy carrier strike groups to the region, and threatens to spill conflict and flows

of Palestinian refugees across borders. In Cairo this weekend, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi was one of a succession of Arab leaders to warn Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is scrambling through Middle East capitals to try to contain the conflict, that the Israel-Gaza war threatens the stability of the entire Middle East. Biden is likely to hear the same as he meets with leaders of Jordan, Egypt and the Palestinian Authority in Jordan on Wednesday, after he travels to Israel. Sissi, who fears the Israeli military offensive will push Gaza’s 2.3 million people across the border into Egypt, cast blame on the near-disappearance of any international pressure on Netanyahu’s government and Palestinians to return to negotiations. Sissi cited “a buildup of outrage and hatred for more than 40 years”and the lack of any “horizon to solve the Palestinian cause; Continued on A15

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

3M SERVICE CENTER APAC, INC. 17th, 18th, 19th Floors, Bonifacio Stop Overcorporate Center, 31st Street Cor., 2nd Avenue, E-square Information Technology Park, Bgc, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

IGNATIUS DWI INDRA PRAYUDHATAMA SUTIKNO PRANJONO Digitization Specialist (Bahasa Indonesia) Brief Job Description: Provide guidance to local teams on product catalog, prioritization across all content need.

Brief Job Description: Interact with the customer on behalf of the organization. Provide information about the products and services, respond to customer complaints as well.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls and handle customer concerns.

BOBY Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 4.

Brief Job Description: Prepares product or service reports by collecting and analyzing customer information.

DAVID Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 5.

Brief Job Description: Prepares product or service reports by collecting and analyzing customer information.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls and handle customer concerns.

WILLIAM SUCIPTA Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 14.

Brief Job Description: Prepares product or service reports by collecting and analyzing customer information.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

PHAM KHAI HOAN App/Cloud Support Senior Analyst

15.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in foreign language.

Brief Job Description: Communicate with the client functional design incharge about the detail of requirement definition and function design; explain development status and issue with team leads of the client; understand the client’s original develop/runtime architecture and develop standards (including deliverable flow, template, description level); and perform knowledge transfer about business requirement/functional design written in required language to team lead and members.

KANUGA, ASHISH Cloud Solution Architect Executive

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

16.

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

Brief Job Description: Translate buyer requirements into a standard solution that includes the deal approach, solution plan, proposal and cost estimate; leverage standard process methods and deliverables to shape services to meet requirements; and define the service delivery locations and related costs for the solutions. Ensure that delivery architecture is implemented according to policies and standards.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls and handle customer concerns.

KRISTINA FEBRIANI Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 7.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls and handle customer concerns.

NATASJA NAOMI MAKINGGUNG Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 8.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls and handle customer concerns.

YANG, SHUN-SHENG Mandarin Speaking Operations Specialist 22.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or other relevant fields, must be able to communicate effectively, verbally and written, in both English and required language, experienced in any of the following: o java (java ee, java se, spring, nodejs) o javascript o sap o .Net o cobol o angular, knowledgeable in back-end programming language/ framework, and willing to work on holidays, weekends, shifting schedules and extended working hours.

Basic Qualification: Deal shaping. Sales enablement. Solution architecture. Value analysis and prioritization. Go-tomarket strategies. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Prepares product or service reports by collecting and analyzing customer information.

PITER DEVIANTO Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 10.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls and handle customer concerns.

RISKY WIJAYA Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 11.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls and handle customer concerns.

SEMAD Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer 12.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of calls and handle customer concerns.

Brief Job Description: Provide business operations support on the financial aspects.

ANSELL KENNARDO Mandarin Speaking Risk Control Specialist 23.

Brief Job Description: High level risk assessment and feedback for new initiatives.

LIN, JHENG-LING Mandarin Speaking Risk Control Specialist 24.

Brief Job Description: High level risk assessment and feedback for new initiatives.

YUNARSI Mandarin Speaking Risk Control Specialist 25.

Brief Job Description: High level risk assessment and feedback for new initiatives.

OUYANG, XU Mandarin Speaking Technical Support Manager 26.

Brief Job Description: Develop and maintains emergency plans to address equipment.

WANG, ZHUO Mandarin Speaking Technical Support Specialist 27.

Brief Job Description: Achieves computer system objectives by gathering pertinent data.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Good verbal and written communication skills in Mandarin. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Good verbal and written communication skills in Mandarin. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BAOLONG TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY GROUP LIMITED INC. 24th-27th/f Century Diamond Tower, Kalayaan Ave. Cor. Salamanca St., Poblacion, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in foreign language.

17.

Brief Job Description: The Quality Documentation Manager (QDM) is responsible for managing a team of Quality Documentation Specialists (QDS).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

CHAN CHEW HOR Mandarin Speaking Customer Service 28.

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

KWON, MBADU PARFAIT SW/App/Cloud Tech Support Analyst

18.

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

Brief Job Description: Advise clients team leads of development status and issues; help in knowledge by explaining business requirement/functional design to team lead and members; improve auto translation process, and request onshore counterparts to unify description of functional design, if necessary.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree graduate. Undergraduates are welcome to apply; can communicate effectively in both verbal and written English and required language; knowledgeable or with experience in service desk management and willing to work on holidays, weekends, shifting schedules and extended working hours, as needed.

29.

MAKANDAR, YASAR RAMJAN Tech Writing & Translation Specialist 19.

Brief Job Description: Create support documentation for technical products. Translate critical technology documents and materials.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in foreign language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

30.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

20.

Brief Job Description: Provides services relating to products.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in foreign language.

HA KIEU GIANG Mandarin Speaking Operations Specialist 21.

Brief Job Description: Develop and maintain standard operating procedures for all business functions.

Basic Qualification: Good verbal and written communication skills in Mandarin.

CHEN, ZIWEI Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

HSIEH, YU-HSUAN a.k.a. HSIEH, PEI-YING Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant 33.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Good verbal and written communication skills in Mandarin.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering products and services questions.

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BEAUTIFUL PHILIPPINE TRAVEL AND CONSULTANCY SERVICES, INC. Unit Ug-50 Cityland Dela Rosa Condo., Dela Rosa St., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati

32.

LUI KHA AN Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering products and services questions.

MUHAMMAD TAQIYUDIN FADHILAH Mandarin Speaking Customer Service

ACSTREAM MANAGEMENT INC. 9/f Sterling Centre, 131 Dela Rosa Cor. Ormaza Sts., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or other relevant fields.

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering products and services questions.

KAMWANG, KAMONTHIP Mandarin Speaking Customer Service

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Attracts potential customer by answering products and services questions.

CHUPINA, ELIZAVETA Mandarin Speaking Customer Service

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in foreign language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able and willing to work U.S. time (Cyclical work shift including work hours at night) as needed.

31. NICO YEN Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 SACHDEVA, RAHUL Health Admin Advisory Associate Manager

IRNA SUHERNAWATI Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer

Basic Qualification: Excellent in reading, writing and speaking in foreign language.

No.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

ACCENTURE, INC. 7f, Robinsons Cybergate Tower 1, Pioneer St, City Of Mandaluyong

Basic Qualification: Fluent in English and Norwegian languages.

7 PRIME TECH, INC. 10/f Ewestpod, Eton Westend Square, Yakal St. Cor. Don Chino Roces Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati

ADE PUTRA Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer

13.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

STEFANUS ROY Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Officer

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent, excellent English communication skills and knowledge of the Bahasa language.

3O BPO INCORPORATED 2/f Lcs Bldg South Super Highway, San Andres Cor Diamante St., 087, Barangay 803, Santa Ana, City Of Manila

JOHANSEN, SINDRE Customer Service Agent Norwegian

No.

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

LAO, MENGYUN Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant 34.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

Basic Qualification: At least 1-year experience in BPO/Travel/Sales industry. Fluent in Mandarin and English languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

A10 A6 Wednesday, October 18, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

LI, DAOJING Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant 35.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

LIANG, LIXUAN Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant 36.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: At least 1-year experience in BPO/Travel/Sales industry. Fluent in Mandarin and English languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

No.

WANG, MINGQIAO Booth Fabrication Specialist Consultant 46.

37.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

Brief Job Description: Co-ordinates sub-contractors involved in the assembly stages. Ensures compliance with safety procedures and quality standards. Searches for the most efficient technical solutions.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Can coordinate and interface between fabrication/installation and pre-fabrication activities. Able to speak and communicate using Mandarin is an advantage. Must be willing to work on field.

No.

WEI, LIZHI Field Sales Consultant

Basic Qualification: At least 1-year experience in BPO/Travel/Sales industry. Fluent in Mandarin and English languages.

Brief Job Description: The one responsible to “get the sale” using various customer sales methods.

58.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

DUONG THANH THANH Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: Can research accounts and generate or follow through sales leads; can valuate customers’ skills, needs and build productive long lasting relationships; and can meet personal and team sales targets. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

DOAN ANH SANG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

59.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: At least 1-year experience in BPO/Travel/Sales industry. Fluent in Mandarin and English languages.

47.

SU, MINGSHU Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

HA THI DIEP Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 60.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

C&I MARKETING CORPORATION 4/f 6780 Bldg., 6780 Ayala Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati HA THI TRUYEN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

TANG, LI-WEI Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant 38.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

TANG, XUEFENG Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant 39.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

YIN, CHIN-HUI Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant 40.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

YU, JIANWEI Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant 41.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Sales Travel Consultant provides support and intermediation in the sale of airline tickets to the Chinese clients.

Basic Qualification: At least 1-year experience in BPO/Travel/Sales industry. Fluent in Mandarin and English languages.

FAN, JUNLI Client Care Associate Mandarin Speaking 48.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: At least 1-year experience in BPO/Travel/Sales industry. Fluent in Mandarin and English languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: At least 1-year experience in BPO/Travel/Sales industry. Fluent in Mandarin and English languages.

MICHEAL WONG MING SHIN Operations Analyst 49.

42.

Brief Job Description: To control and oversee all business operations, people and ventures. To ensure the company is constantly moving forwards fulfilling its short-term and long-term objectives and does not diverge from its strategic guidance.

Basic Qualification: At least 1-year experience in BPO/Travel/Sales industry. Fluent in Mandarin and English languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Twenty (20) years or more experience in Business Operations. Outstanding negotiating skills. Proven outcome in a managerial role and strong working. Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

43.

Brief Job Description: With oversight function over the maintenance activities of the Company’s feed mill operations. Submits weekly report which includes all repairs or hazards that the consultant have come across at the company sites.

ZHANG, PENG Project Director 50.

Brief Job Description: Assist with the project financial planning and analysis; and will handle SAP functionality and BW reporting.

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

Brief Job Description: Overseeing of overall project operation and implementation.

Basic Qualification: Can speak fluent in Mandarin and English languages and has 1-year experience in managing overall project operation.

LE DUC ANH Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 63.

DUAN, AILING Consultant - Mandarin Speaking 51.

Brief Job Description: Research as required to supplement and support in delivering solutions to clients.

DUAN, XIAOSHU Consultant - Mandarin Speaking 52.

Brief Job Description: Research as required to supplement and support in delivering solutions to clients.

64.

65.

Basic Qualification: Expert in Mandarin language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BUI DUC MANH Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 53.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Brief Job Description: Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing.

BUI THI YEN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Basic Qualification: Expertise with SAP functionality and BW reporting. Knowledgeable with Windows operating system & Microsoft office software.

Brief Job Description: Liaising with clients to determine their requirements, timescale and budget.

CHONG FUNG LING Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 55.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

LUONG, VAN KHAI Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

NGUYEN THI CAM VAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 66.

Brief Job Description: Prepare rough drafts and present ideas and conceptualize visuals based on requirements.

Basic Qualification: Expert in Mandarin language. NGUYEN THI THUAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

CRONYX INC. 6-12, 15-19/f Royal Peak Tower A, 485 Quirino Avenue, Tambo, City Of Parañaque

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

LE DUC UOC Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

COTECH CONSULTANCY CORP. 9/f 6780 Bldg., 6780 Ayala Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

54.

44.

Basic Qualification: Has extensive experience in data analytics and data management; is proficient and able to communicate in Mandarin or any Chinese language.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

COMMSEC INC. House No. 2259, Aurora Blvd. St., Barangay 148, Pasay City

BOUYGUES TRAVAUX PUBLICS PHILIPPINES, INC. U-708, 7/f, 3/f Tower One & Exchange Plaza, Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

MESSIER, NICOLAS ALAIN HENRI MICHEL Junior Financial Analyst

62.

67.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With previous work experience in installation, operations and maintenance of plant machineries.

Brief Job Description: Correcting errors and organizing the information in a manner that will optimize swift and accurate capturing.

HO NGOC DOAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BOUNTY FRESH FOOD INC. 179 M. Ponce Street,, District 1, Barangay 134, City Of Caloocan

ZHANG, YANZHEN Technical Consultant

Brief Job Description: Assist in providing business operations solutions and in the development of new business solutions for complex and diverse data management systems.

61.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

CASPO INCORPORATED 43/f, 45/f, 49/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave. Cor. V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

BMSNP, INC. Unit 705 7/f Diplomat Condo, Roxas Blvd., Cor. Russel St., Barangay 76, Pasay City

KIM, DUCKJIN Managing Director

Brief Job Description: Support the financial consultants of the company in providing customer service to its clients.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Chinese-Mandarin language.

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

NGUYEN VAN DUNG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 68.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

NGUYEN VAN TRUONG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 69.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months of experience and good in verbal communication and written.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

NONG HIEN NHU Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 70.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months of experience and good in verbal communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months of experience and good in verbal communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proven graphic designing experience. Good in verbal and written communication. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months of experience and good in verbal communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

C’EST LA VIE EVENT MANAGEMENT INC. 230, Narra Street, Marikina Heights, City Of Marikina DANG VAN KIM Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer

REN, MINGZI Booth Fabrication Specialist Consultant 45.

Basic Qualification: Can coordinate and interface between fabrication/installation and pre-fabrication activities. Able to speak and communicate using Mandarin is an advantage. Must be willing to work on field. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

56.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

DO TUYET TRINH Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 57.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months of experience and good in verbal communication and written.

PHAM HUY THOAN Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 71.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

PHAM THI MINH ANH Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 72.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months of experience and good in verbal communication and written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

TRAN DINH TIEU PHUNG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 73.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

TRAN THI THAM Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 74.

Brief Job Description: Prepare rough drafts and present ideas and conceptualize visuals based on requirements.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months of experience and good in verbal communication and written.

No.

NGUYEN THI ANH TIEN Vietnamese Speaking Customer Service Representative 87.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proven graphic designing experience. Good in verbal and written communication.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Brief Job Description: Responding to Vietnamese customer queries via email, live chat, video, phone, and social media channels.

NGUYEN, THI HAI YEN Vietnamese Speaking Customer Service Representative 88.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Responding to Vietnamese customer queries via email, live chat, video, phone, and social media channels.

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Vietnamese language.

No.

VO DUY TRUNG Chinese Speaking Graphic Designer 75.

Brief Job Description: Planning concepts by studying relevant information and materials.

HOANG THI QUYEN Chinese Speaking Program Designer 76.

Brief Job Description: Document all aspects of software for ongoing maintenance and revisions.

NGUYEN, THI MI MI Vietnamese Speaking Customer Service Representative 89.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Have excellent verbal and written communication skills and able to organize their work using tools.

Brief Job Description: Responding to Vietnamese customer queries via email, live chat, video, phone, and social media channels.

102.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

LIAO, CHENGYU Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 90.

DELIGHTFOOD INC. Unit 239, Avida Cityflex Soho Building, 7th Ave. Cor. Lane T., Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Brief Job Description: Assist/help customers, and give customers information about product and services.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Vietnamese language.

103.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Vietnamese language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

77.

Brief Job Description: Listening to clients’ needs to determine their preferences.

Basic Qualification: Fluent in Korean and English languages.

91.

DEXIN INTERNATIONAL IMPORT AND EXPORT CORP. 534, Tomas Mapua St., Barangay 298, Santa Cruz, City Of Manila

78.

DING, MEIYING Chinese Cargo Office Agent Brief Job Description: Prepare airline and custom documentation.

LEE, SEUNGJAE Head Chef

106.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Chinese documentation. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Assist in hiring and recruiting foreign employees. Overseeing daily business activities. Improving overall business functions and training head of departments.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Korean language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

79.

LEI, JUNFEI Chinese Cargo Office Agent Brief Job Description: Prepare airline and custom documentation.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in Chinese documentation.

92.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of incoming phone calls.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

FERY TANDOKO Indonesian Account Specialist

Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries.

ANJELI FRANSISKA SUSANTO Indonesian Marketing Officer 108.

YULIANA Indonesian Speaking Customer Service Representative 80.

Brief Job Description: Recommends potential products or services to management by collecting information and analyzing customer needs.

CHEN, XINTAO Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative 81.

Brief Job Description: Recommends potential products or services to management by collecting information and analyzing customer needs.

GAN, GUOCHAO Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative 82.

Brief Job Description: Recommends potential products or services to management by collecting information and analyzing customer needs.

XIONG, JIANBO Mandarin Speaking Customer Service Representative 83.

Brief Job Description: Recommends potential products or services to management by collecting information and analyzing customer needs.

HO VAN SU Vietnamese Speaking Customer Service Representative 84.

Brief Job Description: Responding to Vietnamese customer queries via email, live chat, video, phone, and social media channels.

93.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in Indonesian language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

94.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in Mandarin. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in Mandarin.

95.

96.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proficient in speaking, reading and writing in Mandarin.

97.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Vietnamese language.

98.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

85.

Brief Job Description: Responding to Vietnamese customer queries via email, live chat, video, phone, and social media channels.

NGUYEN TAT TUAN Vietnamese Speaking Customer Service Representative 86.

Brief Job Description: Responding to Vietnamese customer queries via email, live chat, video, phone, and social media channels.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Vietnamese language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Brief Job Description: Maintaining hardware and software installations.

Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

AZRIEL MEHRU PANJAITAN Indonesian Quality Control

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of incoming phone calls.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

CERVIN PUTRA KUSUMA Indonesian Quality Control

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of incoming phone calls.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

GABRIEL IMANI JANE HANDOJO Indonesian Quality Control

Basic Qualification: Exceptional ability to provide technical support and resolve queries.

Brief Job Description: Maintaining hardware and software installations.

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

Brief Job Description: Supervises the performance of training activities.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

ANGELINE Indonesian Trainer

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

Brief Job Description: Supervises the performance of training activities.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

BRAM ADHA Indonesian Trainer

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

100.

Brief Job Description: Supervises the performance of training activities.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

KIM, JONGWOO Korean Account Specialist 101.

Brief Job Description: Working with accounts payable, account receivable and payroll.

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Brief Job Description: Plan & execute all digital marketing strategies, including SEO and social media display.

Basic Qualification: Graduate of a bachelor’s degree. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES PHILS. INC. 53/f Pbcom Tower, 6795 Ayala Ave., Cor., V.a. Rufino St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

CHNG SHU QING Service Bidding Manager 112.

Brief Job Description: In charge of Service Bidding Planning and management in accordance with the bidding strategy.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Malaysian language. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

INVECH TREASURE PROCESSING CORPORATION 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 5th Floor Building E, Six West Campus, Le Grand Avenue, Mckinley Hill, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

WIRYANA Indonesian Customer Support Representative 113.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

ANDREW WIJAYA PUTRA Indonesian Trainer

Brief Job Description: Plan & execute all digital marketing strategies, including SEO and social media display.

MIKAEL APRILLEO Indonesian Marketing Officer

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

FENDY Indonesian Customer Support Specialist 114.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

NELSON Indonesian Customer Support Specialist 115.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Vietnamese language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ARIYA SAPTA PUTRA Indonesian It Support Specialist

Brief Job Description: Plan & execute all digital marketing strategies, including SEO and social media display.

MARJOKI Indonesian Marketing Officer

111.

99. LE VAN THANH Vietnamese Speaking Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Manage large amount of incoming calls.

Brief Job Description: Plan & execute all digital marketing strategies, including SEO and social media display.

HARTONO Indonesian Marketing Officer

110. EASYTECH SUPPORT INC. 9-11/f, 14/f Capella Bldg., Asean Drive Filinvest, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa

Brief Job Description: Answering employee questions regarding computer system.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

GOLDEN ARROW DIGITAL SOLUTION INC. 4/f 331 Bldg., Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

109. Basic Qualification: Foreign language speaking.

Brief Job Description: Answering employee questions regarding computer system.

ZHANG, DAN Korean IT Support

GIGA INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT INC. 2/f Lipam’s Building, 40 Presidents Avenue, B. F. Homes, City Of Parañaque 31/f Pbcom Tower 6795 Ayala Ave., Cor. V.a. Rufino St.,, Bel-air, City Of Makati

QUAN, BO Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Answering employee questions regarding computer system.

LEE, YOONHO Korean IT Support

GENESIS BBQ CHICKEN ASIA INCORPORATED Unit 1507 Ibp Tower, Jade Drive, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

Brief Job Description: Working with accounts payable, account receivable and payroll.

KIM, HYUNHO Korean IT Support 105.

Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months of experience and good in verbal and written communication.

Brief Job Description: Working with accounts payable, account receivable and payroll.

YOO, NAMSUN Korean Account Specialist

107. PARK, KYUNGTAEG Korean Senior Consultant

Brief Job Description: Working with accounts payable, account receivable and payroll.

SIM, MIKYEONG Korean Account Specialist

EMN INTEGRA INC. Unit G & H 13th Floor Strata 100 Bldg., F. Ortigas Jr. Road Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION LEE, YOUNGSU Korean Account Specialist

104. Basic Qualification: With at least 6 months of experience and good in verbal communication and written.

A11

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

SUGATO SADHARMA PUNDARIKA Indonesian Customer Support Specialist 116.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Indonesian and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

A12 A6 Wednesday, October 18, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

NG KAI YEE Malaysian Customer Support Representative 117.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

KER WI WERN Malaysian Customer Support Specialist 118.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

MO, CHENGDE Mandarin Customer Support Representative 119.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

XIAN, SHULIN Mandarin Customer Support Representative 120.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

ZHANG, QIAN Mandarin Customer Support Representative 121.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

ZHAO, YANG Mandarin Customer Support Representative 122.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

GAO, JIALI Mandarin Customer Support Specialist 123.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

LI, HONGJIE Mandarin Customer Support Specialist 124.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

LIN, FUYI Mandarin Customer Support Specialist 125.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Malay and at least college level with related BPO experience.

No.

TRAN DUC SANG Vietnamese Customer Support Representative 131.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Malay and at least college level with related BPO experience.

132.

133.

134.

135.

136.

137.

138.

126.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

OKTVIANI SIAUW Indonesian-customer Service Support

SAI KHIN MAUNG LIN Myanmari Customer Support Specialist 127.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

DANG VAN HUNG Vietnamese Customer Support Representative 128.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Vietnamese and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Brief Job Description: Reports on the daily operations of all call center activities performing customer oriented-telephone and activities.

ZHAO, LIJIE Chinese Speaking Customer Service Representative 140.

Brief Job Description: Provide clients with business solutions tailored to their company and industry needs.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Vietnamese and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Brief Job Description: Provide product/services, information, answer questions and resolve emerging problem.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Vietnamese and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

143.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Vietnamese and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

144.

145.

146.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Vietnamese and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

147.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Vietnamese and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

148.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Vietnamese and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Ensuring that food are of excellent quality and authentic taste are consistently achieved, modifying menus or create new ones that meet quality standards, estimating food requirements and food/ labor costs, and supervise kitchen staff’s activities.

Basic Qualification: Possesses bachelor’s degree in any field. Fluent in Bahasa.

Brief Job Description: Provide product/services, information, answer questions and resolve emerging problem.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Ability to assist and direct kitchen staff in meal preparation, creation, plating, and delivery and ensure that kitchen activities operate in a timely manner, and ability to work with minimal to no supervision. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Ability to assist and direct kitchen staff in meal preparation, creation, plating and delivery and ensure that kitchen activities operate in a timely manner. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NEW ORIENTAL CLUB88 CORPORATION Sky Garage Bldg., Aseana Avenue, Entertainment City, Tambo, City Of Parañaque 1331 Pearl Plaza Bldg., 133 Quirino Ave., Tambo, City Of Parañaque

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Vietnamese and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Ensuring that food is of excellent quality and authentic taste is consistently achieved, modifying menus or creating new ones that meet quality standards, estimating food requirements and food/ labor costs, and supervise kitchen staffs activities.

KONG CHIONG LOONG Chinese Chef

149.

150.

FANG, YIXUAN Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NI, MIAOMIAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

WANG, YU Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

XIAO, ZHIJIE Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

XIE, JING Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

XING, LONGYU Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer application with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Experience in technology, business, marketing, or client relations. Fluent in Mandarin and English; both written and spoken.

151.

152.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Graduate of 4 years’ bachelor degree with critical thinking and problem solving skills.

YANG, HAO Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

YANG, KAI Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

ZHAN, WENQIANG Chinese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

154.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

142.

130.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

CHEN, JIANQIAO Chinese Chef

153.

HARTANTO Indonesian Customer Service Representative

NGUYEN KHAC THAO Vietnamese Customer Support Representative

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Vietnamese and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

141.

129.

No.

MPOTECH DIGITAL SYSTEM INC. 2/f 331 Bldg., Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

FERDINAND CHANDRA Indonesian Customer Service Representative

DAO, THI NHAN Vietnamese Customer Support Representative

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

LUCKY365 CONSULTING LIMITED CORP. U/18a 18f 18/f Trafalgar Plaza, 105 H.v. Dela Costa St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Burmese and at least college level with related BPO experience. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

LEEKIE ENTERPRISES, INC. 8/f Techzone Bldg., 213 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati

139. MAO, KEQIN Mandarin Customer Support Specialist

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

TRAN THI BICH NGOC Vietnamese Customer Support Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

PHAO CUN KIU Vietnamese Customer Support Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

NGUYEN THI HUYEN TRANG Vietnamese Customer Support Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Brief Job Description: Experts at their product, and their primary duty is to resolve customer issues quickly and efficiently.

BUI MINH THONG Vietnamese Customer Support Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

A YEN LINH Vietnamese Customer Support Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

TRAN THI VAN Vietnamese Customer Support Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin and at least college level with related BPO experience.

Brief Job Description: Supports customers by providing helpful information, answering questions, and responding to complaints.

TRAN THI HA GIANG Vietnamese Customer Support Representative

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Able to speak and write in Mandarin and at least college level with related BPO experience.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Basic Qualification: Graduate of 4 years’ bachelor degree with critical thinking and problem solving skills.

ANDRADE IANTORNO, MARIA FERNANDA Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 155.

NATURAL9 CORPORATION Unit 8c-1, 8 Rockwell Building, Hidalgo Drive, Rockwell Center, Poblacion, City Of Makati

MELO DE CARVALHO, JOAO ANNES Customer Service Representative Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

156.

157.

158.

159.

160.

161.

162.

163.

164.

165.

166.

167.

168.

169.

170.

171.

172.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

HERMAWAN Indonesian Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

LEE KAH CHUN Malaysian Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

AUNG KYAW NYEIN Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

AUNG NAING Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

AUNG NAING OO Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

CHIT MIN HTET Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

CHU KYI Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

HTOI AUNG Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

KHANT HTET AUNG Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

KYAW HTAY Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

MARLAR AYE Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

MIN SWE OO Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NAR HTAW Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NYI NYI LATT Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

PHOO PWINT WAI Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

SANDAR WIN Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

SHAN WAI WAI AUNG Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

No.

173.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

174.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

175.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

176.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

177.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

178.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

179.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

180.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

181.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

182.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

183.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

184.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

185.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

186.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

187.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

188.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

189.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

WIN SAUNG HLAING Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

YI YI HTIN Myanmari Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

CHONG TU HUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

DAN MY LINH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

DANG, THI HONG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

DINH THI HA Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

DO TUAN ANH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

DONG PHUC TAI Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

DUONG, THI HONG NGUYET Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

HA, MINH ANH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

HO THI NAM Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

HO, CONG QUANG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

HO, THI THUY Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

HOANG, KIM QUY Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

LE THI MINH PHUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

LE THI NGA Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

LE, THI HOA Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

A13

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

No.

190.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

191.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

192.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

193.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

194.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

195.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

196.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

197.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

198.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

199.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

200.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

201.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

202.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

203.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

204.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

205.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

206.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

LE, VAN TU Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

LIU KHANH THUAN Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

LUC, VAN SON Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

LUONG THI VINH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

LUONG, THANH HUYEN Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

MAC CHI THANH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NGO, DUC TAI Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NGUYEN TAN HOI Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NGUYEN TRI QUANG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NGUYEN VAN CUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NGUYEN, MY VI Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NGUYEN, TRONG TRUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NGUYEN, VIET BANG KIEU Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NGUYEN, XUAN TINH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

NONG THI MO Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

PHAM THI THAO Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

PHAM, THI HOA HUE Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

BusinessMirror

A14 A6 Wednesday, October 18, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

207.

208.

209.

210.

211.

212.

213.

214.

215.

216.

217.

218.

219.

220.

221.

222.

223.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

PHAM, THU NGUYET Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

PHAN, THI XUAN DIEU Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

PHUI A SENH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

THI, THI VE Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

TO, THI DINH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

TRAN VAN NGUYEN Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

TRAN, THI KIM DAO Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

TRINH, THI ANH Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

TRUONG, HUU DAI Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

TRUONG, HUU HONG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

VI, DIEU THUY Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

VI, HOANG LINH CHI Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

VONG HONG LIEN Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

VONG, THUY NGOC VY Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

VU, THI MINH LUONG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

VU, VAN DUC Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

VU, XUAN HUNG Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

No.

224.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

WOONG VINH NHAT Vietnamese Customer Service Brief Job Description: Customer support and data base services.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ZHUKOVA, EKATERINA Bilingual Software Developer

Basic Qualification: Excellent bilingual.

225.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

ODFJELL TECHNOLOGY PHILIPPINES CORP. 27/f Zuellig Bldg., Makati Ave. Cor. Paseo De Roxas, Urdaneta, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

226.

Brief Job Description: Manage and administrate activities in engineering department.

Basic Qualification: BSC/MSC degree in Engineering Project and Engineering Experience and Management Experience from engineering environment

227.

EVERLY ANGEL Indonesian Language - Support Officer Brief Job Description: Assist in planning of the organization’s daily operation. QIN, YANSHUI Mandarin Language- Support Officer

228.

229.

Brief Job Description: Assist in the planning & administration of the organization’s daily operation. Providing information, assistance & support to customers. Assist with the preparation of reports. Escalating complex issue to management. NGUYEN THI NGOC LIEU Vietnamese Language - Support Officer Brief Job Description: Assist in planning of the organization’s daily operation.

TRAN THI BICH NGOC Vietnamese Language- Support Officer 230.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ISOGAI, BETTSU Japanese Coordinator

231.

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

Basic Qualification: Degree holder; must fluently speak and write Mandarin language; and can work under pressure.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

SHIMOMURA, KOJI Multilingual Customer Service Specialist 238.

JARUWORAPONG, PHURIS Thai-language Customer Support Staff 232.

Brief Job Description: Serves as primary contact for problem resolution and information gathering regarding customer complaints and work assignment.

SRIBOONRUANG, JUKKRAYUT Thai-language Customer Support Staff 233.

Brief Job Description: Serves as primary contact for problem resolution and information gathering regarding customer complaints and work assignment.

240.

234.

Brief Job Description: Answer customer inquiries completely and accurately through live chat, emails and inbound/outbound calls to resolves customer complaints.

235.

Brief Job Description: Coordinate and oversee implementation of corporate driven creative and globally recognized visual merchandising strategies across all merchandise business units in the stores nationwide to ensure alignment and compliance.

Brief Job Description: Define a region-specific marketing plan that supports the regional sales strategy.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in business or related field of study. Excellent communication skills. He shall have been proven to possess integrity and probity.

Brief Job Description: Provide cost estimates for body damage and internal repairs. Create and maintain a process to effectively manage warranty, customer paid, and internal repair orders.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

MANE, MANDAR Director, Operations

242.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Business/ Marketing. Advertising and merchandising: minimum 20 years of experience and must have strong experience working in various retail business across Asia pacific and in global markets. Adept in global standards for business operations. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Manage and develop multiple specialized teams of less experienced managers and professional individual contributors with focus on delivering highly complex tasks and risk services for cross functional stakeholders, internal partners associated with the function or affected by its outcome.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 8 years of work experience in leading and managing operations in a global banking/financial services industry. Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

WISHLAND SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGY INC. 28/f Techzone Condo Corp., 213 Buendia Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati

SAIFUL ROMDON Indonesian Language Research Analyst 243.

Brief Job Description: Conduct research on products and services as specified.

HONG, TU TRINH Vietnamese Language Research Analyst 244.

Brief Job Description: Conduct research on products and services as specified.

NIM KIM LIEN Vietnamese Language Research Analyst 245.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proficient in writing, reading and speaking in Mandarin.

Brief Job Description: Provide cost estimates for body damage and internal repairs. Create and maintain a process to effectively manage warranty, customers paid, and internal repair orders.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in business or related field of study. Excellent communication skills. He shall have been proven to possess integrity and probity.

WELLS FARGO INTERNATIONAL SOLUTIONS LLC-PHILIPPINES Wells Fargo Center, 1180 Wells Fargo Drive, Mckinley Hill Cyberpark, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

SM RETAIL INC. Sm Retail Headquarters Bldg., J.w. Diokno Blvd Cor Bayshore Ave St., Moa Subd., Barangay 76, Pasay City

NUR SHUHADA BINTI JAFFAR Consultant

Basic Qualification: Proficient in multilanguages.

ZHAO, YUE Service And Parts Director

Basic Qualification: Degree holder; must fluently speak and write Mandarin language; and can work under pressure.

Basic Qualification: A native speaker of the Thai and fluent in English language (spoken and written).

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

LIU, LU Service And Parts Director

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: A native speaker of the Thai and fluent in English language (spoken and written).

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Mandarin language.

VEHICLE MASTER SERVICE CORP. #27, T. Santiago St.,, Canumay West, City Of Valenzuela

SINCERELY SERVICES INC. Units 2 & 3 24/f Tower 6789, 6789 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

WEN, XIAOYAN Mandarin Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Utilize product knowledge to augment sales and resolve customer objections.

Basic Qualification: Fluently speak and write Vietnamese language.

Basic Qualification: Must have at least a bachelor’s degree or higher, in any degree; with a minimum experience in the field of one (1) year; must be fluent in both Japanese and English languages and possess the capability to read and write both languages fluently; preferably a Japanese national; must be able to present professionally and provide outstanding customer service; and with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Proficient in foreign language.

AOYAGI, SHOJI Multilingual Marketing Specialist

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Mandarin language.

TOTAL CREST BUSINESS SUPPORT, INC. 26/f & 27/f Alphaland Corporate Tower, Ayala Ave. Extn. Cor. Malugay St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

RUNNINGMAN CORPORATION 8/f Techzone Bldg., 213 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., San Antonio, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

Brief Job Description: Provide interpretation and translation services to the administration and language support to Japanese visitors; provide general clerical support and comply with the company’s rules and regulations; responsible for delving into knowledge about Japanese culture and overseeing the handling of Japanese inquiries; and responsible for preparing materials to be presented to consumers or agencies during presentations.

Brief Job Description: Create website layout/user interface by using standard HTML/CSS practices.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

237.

ROHM LSI DESIGN PHILIPPINES, INC. 9th -12th Floor Ansons Centre, 23 Adb Ave., Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Create website layout/user interface by using standard HTML/CSS practices. YUAN, KANG Mandarin Web Developer

241.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

236.

239.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

LIU, CHENGLIN Mandarin Web Developer

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

Basic Qualification: Fluently speak and write Vietnamese language.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

SOLIDLEISURE SOLUTIONS INC. Unit 1803a, 1803b, 1804a, 1804b & 1805a West Tower, Psec Exchange Road, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

PHOENIXFIELD, INC. 7/f Iacademy Plaza, 324 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave, Bel-air, City Of Makati

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

Brief Job Description: Implement design, installation, testing and maintenance of software systems.

GAREN, LARS Engineering Manager

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

No.

NOONA BUSINESS CONSULTING SERVICES INC. 10th & 31st Floor Ore Central Tower, 9th Ave. Cor. 31st St., Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Knowledgeable in computer applications with good verbal and written communication skills.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

246.

Brief Job Description: Conduct research on products and services as specified.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Vietnamese language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Vietnamese language.

PHUN KIM HOA Vietnamese Language Research Analyst Brief Job Description: Conduct research on products and services as specified.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

*Date Generated: Oct 17, 2023 In the ad material of Notice of Filing of Application for Alien Employment Permits published on October 11, 2023, the position of NATALIE under the company GIGA INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT INC., should have been read as INDONESIAN FINANCIAL SYSTEM CONSULTANT and not as published. In the ad material of Notice of Filing of Application for Alien Employment Permits published on September 15, 2023, the name YANG, MENGFENG under the company DGM BUSINESS CONSULTANCY INC., should have been read as YANG, MENGFEI and not as published. Any person in the Philippines who is competent, able and willing to perform the services for which the foreign national is desired may file an objection at DOLE National Capital Region located at DOLE-NCR Building, 967 Maligaya St., Malate Manila, within 30 days after this publication. Please inform DOLE National Capital Region if you have any information on criminal offense committed by the foreign nationals.

The World BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Wednesday, October 18, 2023 A15

Putin’s China visit underscores ties amid Ukraine war, Hamas-Israel war By Christopher Bodeen

The Associated Press

AIPEI, Taiwan—Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing on Tuesday for a visit that underscores China’s support for Moscow during its war in Ukraine as well as Russian backing for China’s bid to expand its economic and diplomatic influence abroad.

The two countries have forged an informal alliance against the United States and other democratic nations that is now complicated by the Israel-Hamas war. China has sought to balance its ties with Israel against its relations with Iran and Syria, two countries that are strongly backed by Russia and with which China has forged ties for economic reasons as well as to challenge Washington’s influence in the Middle East. Putin’s plane was met by an honor guard as the Russian leader began his visit that is also a show of support for Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s signature “Belt and Road” initiative to build infrastructure and expand

China’s overseas influence. In an interview to Chinese state media, Putin praised the massive but loosely linked BRI projects. “Yes, we see that some people consider it an attempt by the People’s Republic of China to put someone under its thumb, but we see otherwise, we just see desire for cooperation,” he told state broadcaster CCTV, according to a transcript released by the Kremlin on Monday. Putin will be among the highest profile guests at a gathering marking the 10th anniversary of Xi’s announcement of the BRI project, which has laden countries such as Zambia and Sri Lanka with

RUSSIA’S President Vladimir Putin, rear center, arrives at Beijing Capital International Airport to attend the third Belt and Road Forum in Beijing on Tuesday, October 17, 2023. PARKER SONG/POOL PHOTO VIA AP

heavy debt from contracts with Chinese companies to build roads, airports and other public works they could not otherwise afford. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has praised the Chinese policy as bringing development to neglected areas. A sked by repor ters Fr iday about his visit, Putin said it would encompass talks on Belt and Road-related projects, which he said Moscow wants to link with efforts by an economic alliance of former Soviet Union nations mostly located in Central Asia to “achieve common development goals.” He also downplayed the impact

600 days into the war, Russia’s assault on key eastern Ukraine city appears to be weakening By Illia Novikov

The Associated Press

YIV, Ukraine—A dayslong attempt by Russian forces to storm a strategically important city in eastern Ukraine appears to be running out of steam, Kyiv officials said Monday, as the Kremlin’s war entered its 600th day. Ukrainian forces repelled 15 Russian attacks from four directions on Avdiivka over the previous 24 hours, the Ukrainian General Staff said. That compared with up to 60 attacks a day in the middle of last week, according to Vitalii Barabash, head of the city administration. The slackening suggests the Russian effort to capture Avdiivka has “deflated,” Barabash said. A Washington-based think tank broad ly concur red w ith that assessment. “Russian forces continued offensive operations aimed at encircling Avdiivka… but have yet to make further gains amid a likely decreasing tempo of Russian operations in the area,” the Institute for the Study of War said in analysis

published late Sunday. Russia’s ambassador to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, told a U.N. Security Council meeting last Friday that the ramped-up attacks in the east amounted to a new stage in Moscow’s campaign in Ukraine. With the looming onset of wintry conditions that will limit military operations, both sides have been seeking battlefield breakthroughs that could invigorate their efforts and raise morale. Ukraine launched its own counteroffensive about four months ago. It has made some headway but the limited success has underlined the daunting challenge of taking on the Kremlin’s more numerous forces. Kyiv’s Western allies insist that their military and financial support for Ukraine will continue, even as the Israeli-Hamas war rages and competes for resources. US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Sunday the Biden administration will ask Congress for a combined aid package for Ukraine and Israel worth more than $2 billion. Ukrainian officials have said

their troops are hold ing out against fierce Russian efforts to wrest control of Avdiivka, a heavily fortified city. Avdiivka lies in the northern suburbs of the city of Donetsk, in a region of the same name that Russian forces partially occupy. Avdiivka’s location grants Ukrainian forces artillery advantages over the city and could serve as a springboard for them to liberate Donetsk. It is not possible to verify battlefield claims by either side. Misinformation and disinformation have played a central role in the war. Ru ssi a n Defense Mi n i ster Sergei Shoigu, speaking during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, claimed Ukrainian forces have failed to make any sig nif icant ga ins dur ing their counteroffensive. Kyiv’s troops are trying to make headway without air cover and have encountered multi-layered Russian defenses. Putin, in an interview with the China Media Group released Monday, claimed that Ukraine’s counteroffensive has achieved “no

of China’s economic influence in a region that Russia has long considered its backyard and where it has worked to maintain political and military clout. “We don’t have any contradictions here, on the contrary, there is a certain synergy,” Putin said. Putin said he and Xi would also discuss growing economic ties between Moscow and Beijing in energy, high-tech and financial industries. China has also grown in importance as an export destination for Russia. A lexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said that from China’s view, “Russia is a safe neighbor results so far, only massive losses.” Moscow can expect more diplomatic pressure from the 57-nation Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in coming months, according to the chief diplomat of North Macedonia, which currently holds that body’s rotating presidency. The country’s foreign minister, Bujar Osmani, urged Russia to cease its attacks on Ukraine and withdraw its forces. He spoke at a press conference in Kyiv on Monday. The OSCE was created during the Cold War to help to defuse tensions between East and West. Meanwhile, Russian children’s rights ombudswoman Maria Lvova-Belova claimed Monday that her office has helped 35 Ukrainian children reunite with their relatives in Ukraine and other countries. Lvova-Belova, who was indicted along with Putin by the International Criminal Court for war crimes connected to the deportation of children from Ukraine, claimed Russia never opposed reuniting children with their families. Qatar’s foreign ministry issued a statement saying it had been involved in recent family reunifications through its embassy in Moscow but it provided no details.

US to tighten rules aimed at keeping advanced processors out of China By Jenny Leonard, Mackenzie Hawkins, Ian King and Debby Wu

HE Biden administration is refining rules aimed at keeping advanced chips and manufacturing gear out of China, seeking to close loopholes that might help its geopolitical rival gain cutting-edge technologies. The latest regulations are an attempt to streamline export curbs announced last October, according to people familiar with the matter. The new rules will strengthen controls on selling graphics chips for artificial intelligence applications and advanced

chipmaking equipment to Chinese firms, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the information isn’t yet public. The move will set new guidelines for companies like Nvidia Corp., which has been selling a weakened version of its flagship processor to Chinese companies to abide by the current rules. The tighter standards may make those kinds of workarounds more difficult for American exporters. The US unveiled the original chip restrictions a year ago in an aggressive attempt to curtail China’s technological development, a step the Biden administration argued is necessary for national security. China has bristled at the restrictions and

accelerated investments in building its own domestic capabilities. As part of the new rules, the US will impose additional checks on Chinese firms attempting to evade export restrictions by routing shipments through other nations. It also will add Chinese chip design firms to a trade restriction list, requiring overseas manufacturers to gain a US license to fill orders from those companies. The updated restrictions will be published early this week, people familiar with the deliberations said. A spokesman for the National Security Council declined to comment, as did a spokeswoman for the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry

and Security. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Monday at a regular press briefing in Beijing that her nation opposed “the US politicizing, instrumentalizing and weaponizing trade and tech issues.” She added: “We will continue to monitor the developments, and firmly safeguard our rights and interests.” Chip-related stocks fell in Asia after Bloomberg’s report on the latest restrictions. In Japan, Tokyo Electron Ltd., Advantest Corp. and Disco Corp. all retreated at least 1.7 percent, while South Korean stocks such as Hana Micron Inc. also slid. With assistance from Shiyin Chen and Philip Glamann/Bloomberg

that is friendly, that is a source of cheap raw materials, that’s a support for Chinese initiatives on the global stage and that’s also a source of military technologies, some of those that China doesn’t have.” “For Russia, China is its lifeline, economic lifeline in its brutal repression against Ukraine,” Gabuev told The Associated Press. “It’s the major market for Russian commodities, it’s a country that provides its currency and payment system to settle Russia’s trade with the outside world— with China itself, but also with many other countries, and is also the major source of sophisticated technological imports, including dual-use goods that go into the Russian military machine.” Gabuev said that while Moscow and Beijing will be unlikely to forge a full-fledged military alliance, their defense cooperation will grow. “Both countries are self-sufficient in terms of security and they benefit from partnering, but neither really requires a security guarantee from the other. And they preach strategic autonomy,” he said. “There will be no military alliance, but there will be closer military cooperation, more interoperability, more cooperation on pro-

jecting force together, including in places like the Arctic and more joint effort to develop a missile defense that makes the US nuclear planning and planning of the US and its allies in Asia and in Europe more complicated,” he added. The Chinese and Soviets were Cold War rivals for inf luence among left-leaning states, but China and Russia have since partnered in the economic, military and diplomatic spheres. Just weeks before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last February, Putin met with Xi in Beijing and the sides signed an agreement pledging a “no-limits” relationship. Beijing’s attempts to present itself as a neutral peace broker in Russia’s war on Ukraine have been widely dismissed by the international community. Xi visited Moscow in March as part of a flurry of exchanges between the countries. China has condemned international sanctions imposed on Russia, but hasn’t directly addressed an arrest warrant issued for Putin by the International Criminal Court on charges of alleged involvement in the abductions of thousands of children from Ukraine.

The Associated Press writer Jim Heintz in Tallinn, Estonia, contributed to this report.

President Biden didn’t make Israeli-Palestinian talks a priority, region now pays the price–Arab leaders Continued from A8

one that gives hope to the Palestinians” for a state with a capital in East Jerusalem. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, pointed to Saudis’ “repeated warnings of the danger of the explosion.” Arab leaders “are very aware this is going to keep blowing up. And they might ride it out this time, they might ride it out next time, as they have in the past,” said Yezid Sayigh, a senior fellow at the Malcolm H. Kerr Carnegie Middle East Center in Beirut, Lebanon. “But it’s not actually a comfortable position for them to be endlessly living in,” with endless cycles of Israeli and Palestinian wars that threaten the region’s peace and economies, said Sayigh, who accused the US of encouraging Netanyahu to think there was no need to address Palestinian concerns. Underscoring his administration’s diminished emphasis on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Biden’s call to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas this past weekend amid the building Gaza war was the American leader’s first since taking office. In 1973, Arab nations’ surprise attack on Israel, and Arabs’ devastating oil embargo on the US and other countries for their support of Israel in that fight, convinced US leaders that a lasting resolution to Palestinian demands for statehood was in America’s strategic interest. But after some early successes, recurring violence, the disappointments of past failed mediation efforts, and the scale of the disputes helped derail the US push. By the time Biden, a strong supporter of the state of Israel, took office, any support for major negotiations among Israelis was faint. To be sure, there’s little to suggest ambitious engagement by Biden on Israeli-Palestinian issues would have made immediate progress, or done anything to discourage the attack by Hamas, whose charter calls for the destruction of Israel. Even after a 2021 burst of fighting between Hamas and Israel, administration figures argued that a big push on peace efforts would undermine more easily won goals, like cease-fires with Hamas. Instead, Biden has enthusiastically followed the new path that predecessor Donald Trump had laid out on Middle

East peacemaking: lobbying for so-called normalization deals with Arab countries, absent any Israeli-Palestinian accord. U n d e r Tr u m p, t h e U n i te d A ra b Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco all signed normalization deals establishing diplomatic relations with Israel. Up until October 7, Biden appeared to be fast closing in on brokering a normalization deal with the biggest prize of all, regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia. Then, Hamas’s breakout from Gaza shattered what National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had hailed as a period of Middle East calm. The violence has been the deadliest of five wars between Hamas and Israel, killing more than 1,400 people in Israel and nearly 2,800 in Gaza. It’s not clear what happens to Biden’s normalization push now. Despite their angry comments and varying degrees of popular support among their public for the Palestinian cause, America’s Arab partners are pragmatists, and like the US and Israel, adversaries of Hamas and other Iran-backed groups. Additionally, the Biden administration’s immediate and all-in rallying to Israel’s mounting defense after Hamas’s October 7 massacres may only heighten Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s desire to lock in that kind of security alliance with the US for the kingdom, many analysts are arguing. “I think Gulf partners are looking at the quick, decisive response that the US has provided Israel, and are incredibly jealous,” said Jonathan Lord, director of the Middle East security program at the Center for a New American Security think tank. Brokering those alliances would stabilize the Middle East in themselves, no IsraeliPalestinian peace accord needed, supporters have argued. The nightmare unfolding now for Israeli and Palestinian civilians argues differently, when it comes to Biden’s approach, critics say. “As long as the core issues stay unresolved, ignoring them does not make them go away,” said Yousef Munayyer, who heads the Palestine-Israel program at the Arab Center, a Washington think tank. “And I think that’s a lesson for everybody.” The Associated Press writer Sam Magdy in Cairo contributed to this report.

A16 Wednesday, October 18, 2023 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

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editorial

An efficient agri system helps PHL to save water

ice, the staple food of Filipinos, is a crop that requires huge amounts of water. The International Rice Research Institute estimated that the production of a kilo of unmilled rice would require an average of around 2,500 liters of water. The volume of water would depend on other factors, including soil properties and weather, but it is widely recognized that water inputs to rice fields are 2 to 3 times those of other major cereals.

The production of rice and other crops require water on a regular basis. According to the United Nations, agriculture accounts for 72 percent of global freshwater withdrawals. Unfortunately, the UN noted that only 2.5 percent of water is fresh, suitable for drinking, agriculture, and most industrial uses. The increase in global population and rapid urbanization are putting a stress on freshwater, a resource that is finite. Despite the increasing competition for this crucial resource, the world continues to waste vast amounts of food. According to a UN study, around 13 percent of food produced is lost between harvest and retail, while an estimated 17 percent of total global food production is wasted in households, in the food service and in retail all together. The Food Waste Index Report 2021 published by the UN Environment Programme found that in nearly every country that has measured food waste, it was substantial regardless of income level. The report noted that most of the waste comes from households, which discard 11 percent of total food available at the consumption stage of the supply chain. Food services and retail outlets waste 5 percent and 2 percent, respectively. Households, food services and retail outlets continue to waste food at a time when 821 million people are hungry and 3 billion are unable to afford a healthy diet. It happens while nations are struggling to find other sources of freshwater and implement measures that will encourage their citizens to save water. The wasting of food did not stop even when institutions, such as UN, warned that hunger is on the rise and most nations will not be able meet the Sustainable Development Goal of eliminating it by 2030. It would do well for the Philippine government to heed the call of the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to immediately transform its agrifood system. (See, “Current agrifood models wasteful, unsustainable–FAO,” in the BusinessMirror, October 4, 2023). We agree with the UN agency that the priorities of nations must be to prevent and reduce food loss and waste at source considering the postharvest losses incurred by Filipino farmers. In rice alone, the Philippines loses some 35 percent of its annual output due to inefficient milling practices. Aside from increasing food supply, an efficient agrifood system will allow the Philippines to save water. There’s an urgent need for the government to work with the private sector and local communities to find ways to produce more food using less water to reduce the stress on a rapidly declining resource. Since 2005

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Israel: Center of New World disorder Zoilo ‘Bingo’ P. Dejaresco III

Finex Free Enterprise

‘T

his land is mine, God gave this land to me. This brave and golden land to me. If I must fight, I’ll fight to make this land our own. Until I die, this land is mine.”

Brave, poignant lyrics from the movie “Exodus” tell about the birth of the nation of Israel in 1948 and the “wandering Jews” finally finding their own home. The history of the Israelites started in 931 BC when the Kingdom of Judah was divided into Israel and Judea. After centuries of religious conflict and political persecution, the Israelites had transformed their nation (Israel) into one of the most scientifically adept and militarily strong nations—defeating far superior odds in the past. Two-thirds of the Israeli Jews believe they are the “Chosen People.” Since 2007, on the other hand, the Hamas Party has ruled Gaza and the animosity toward Israel remained. Iran, likewise, also remains dedicated to the goal of annihilating Israel. Hamas stealthily did a “Pearl Harbor” on Israel last week—attacking and slaughtering civilians

and carting away 199 hostages. Israel responded with air and missile attacks on Gaza and denying food, power, and water, punishing 2.3 million innocent non-Hamas Palestinian citizens. Thousands on both sides (2,600 in Gaza alone) have died and more wounded in the worst war outbreak Israel has faced in decades. As of this writing, some one million Gaza residents were asked to move south—before a massive landair-sea attack of Israel against the remaining Hamas. Israel, however, fears developing worldwide hatred for Israel if too much “collateral damage” on civilians is done to obliterate maybe just 50,000 fanatical Hamas members. Israel does not want to appear “burning an entire house to kill one rat.” There are overtures to open the gates of say Rafah in Egypt as a safe corridor for civilians to avoid armed conflict. Likewise, talks of exchang-

ing Hamas’ hostages with Palestinian political prisoners. Hamas, however, is not expected to agree to either since both are their only insurance for survival—as “human shields.” Israel’s Gaza attack, meantime, is not the moral equivalent of that of Ukraine, which, despite over a year of Russian territorial usurpation, never crossed the borders of Russia to retaliate. Of course, Ukrainians are not Israelites. Israel is categorically intent on revenge and punishing Gaza to ashes and is a country that is not known to negotiate with terrorists. Israel is supported by two standby American super aircraft carriers in the vicinity. However, the European Union has asked for consistency that while it condemns the Hamas attack, it will not condone an Israel blockade of food, medicine, water and power—as this is violative of international law. Assuming Hamas is exterminated, who will rule Gaza? Certainly, Israel wishes nothing to do with the disputed Gaza, and a United Nations force temporarily taking over—prior to a Gaza general election—would seem to be, at the moment, the only viable alternative. No way will Israel allow Hamas to rule again.

Minimizing the consequences

Analysts project that unless the major Arab oil-producing nations get involved in the Israel fray, there will not be much effect on the prices of

Evergrande wind-up hearing opens bumpy path toward liquidation By Dorothy Ma

hearing for China Evergrande Group in a Hong Kong insolvency court later this month will lay bare the onceunthinkable possibility of liquidating the property developer’s assets. A wind-up order from Judge Linda Chan after the October 30 hearing would wreak havoc on the struggling company that’s trying to finalize a restructuring plan to pay back creditors. Any effort to wind up the world’s most indebted developer—even if difficult to enforce in mainland China—would provide a roadmap for other developers and creditors on how a liquidation of such magnitude may play out. Evergrande, the poster child of China’s real estate debt crisis with about $327 billion of liabilities, comes to the hearing when more liquidations have been ordered. The Hong Kong court has issued at least three wind-up orders for Chinese property developers since the debt crisis began in 2021, de-

spite thorny jurisdictional issues and China’s interest in keeping developers afloat to ensure homebuyers are made whole. “A liquidation order would have wide repercussions,” said Daniel Margulies, a partner at Dechert LLP who specializes in restructuring matters in Asia. The developer’s collapse “would show that problems of this size and complexity in China seemingly cannot be restructured and will likely end up in some form of liquidation, whether onshore or offshore.” The hearing originates from a wind-up lawsuit filed by a creditor, Top Shine Global Limited of Intershore Consult (Samoa) Ltd., who was a strategic investor in Evergrande’s online sales platform. Top Shine’s case was the first

The face of the company, billionaire chairman Hui Ka Yan, also has been subject to “mandatory measures” related to “suspicion of illegal crimes,” according to a company statement. wind-up lawsuit against Evergrande and became the consolidated class action for other frustrated creditors. What happens if a liquidation order is issued? If Chan’s court decides to issue a wind-up, Evergrande could still appeal the decision. But that wouldn’t stop the liquidation process from moving forward. However, a liquidation order may not necessarily lead to an immediate suspension of Evergrande’s construction work, housing delivery and other activities. After the order, the court could appoint a liquidator, who would seize control from directors and management to make major business decisions and seek gains for creditors

oil since Israel is not an oil-producing nation. In fact, many Arab nations had already started the road to peace with Israel before the Hamas attack. Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco had, in fact, already signed peace overtures with Israel while Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were set to sign their own with Tel Aviv. Some suspect that Iran (whose frozen assets were recently set free by President Joe Biden) precisely helped plan the Gaza assault to sabotage the Israel-Middle East peace plan. The presence of American war carriers (Ford and Eisenhower ships) is meant as a deterrent for any foolish nation that tries to get involved in the recent Israel imbroglio. News has it that some token missile firing at Israel was done in southern Lebanon from the Syrian border, and the Hezbollah. The Taliban in Afghanistan also voiced their willingness to fight Israel with the $7 billion worth of military equipment that the US left behind when they abandoned Afghanistan a few years ago. Though militarily prepared to the teeth, defense analysts do not expect major involvement of other Middle Eastern nations in the Israel war. For instance, Iran is embroiled in too much political instability, the Taliban is in disorganized chaos and Lebanon has been crushed by a severe four-year economic crisis to bundle enough political will to dare See “Dejaresco,” A17

from existing assets. That’s not an easy process in dealing with Chinese developers. Most Evergrande projects are operated by local units, which could be hard for the offshore liquidator to seize. “It’s impossible to expect liquidators to take control over every subsidiary of Evergrande. There could be a thousand of them,” said Nigel Trayers, managing director of restructuring at Grant Thornton LLP. “But the size alone is not the only thing that will prevent the liquidators from taking control onshore. China’s system is more focused on protecting the onshore stakeholders.” The process of taking over companies could last for years for even routine cases. And none of the three wind-up orders involving the developers—including the first one in a case involving a Yango Group unit last year—comes close to Evergrande in complexity, asset size, and the number of stakeholders. “The property market hasn’t been good and it made liquidation works See “Evergrande,” A17

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Opinion BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 18, 2023 A17

Israeli bid to cast Hamas as Through a looking glass, darkly ISIS hurt by Gaza deaths By Ethan Bronner

fter US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Sunday, both posted a similar photo—but with contrasting descriptions.

Blinken said they talked about “the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel,” in his post to X, formerly Twitter. The prince said they were looking for ways “to stop the military operations that have claimed the lives of innocent people,” a reference to Israel’s bombing of Gaza. The disconnect isn’t limited to the Saudis. Just a few governments in the region have publicly denounced the October 7 Hamas massacre of 1,300 Israelis. Instead, the focus of much of the rest of the world has shifted to civilian casualties in Gaza, where daily Israeli airstrikes have killed more than 3,000. Even allies like the US and UK have publicly called on Israel to protect noncombatants as it prepares for a massive ground invasion. Israeli officials can’t believe it. They have spent every day since the attacks bringing foreign leaders and journalists to the unbearably grim sites of the killing, gathering testimonies from survivors and splicing together video of gruesome beheadings and eye-gougings recorded—often gleefully—by the perpetrators. The aim of these presentations is to get the world to agree that Israel now has not only license to destroy Hamas—designated a terrorist organization by the US and European Union—but a collective responsibility to do so, just as the US won international support after the September 11 attacks to eradicate al Qaeda and later against ISIS. “There are no two sides to this conflict,” said Lior Haiat, spokesman for Israel’s Foreign Ministry in a Zoom presentation that included two survivors on Monday. “If someone is not standing with us today, he is standing with monsters who murder babies and old people. If you are not standing against terror, you are part of terror.” For Israel, the mobilization of 360,000 soldiers and demand that 1.1 million Palestinians in Gaza move south within 24 hours as it pounded the area from the air count as justified responses to unspeakable acts. “Let me tell you, Mr. Secretary, this will be a long war, the price will be high,” Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned Blinken Monday. “But we are going to win for Israel and the Jewish people, and for the values that both countries believe in.” But elsewhere, Israel’s preparations are fueling more alarm than resolve. Even as US President Joe Biden has publicly sided with Israel’s view that Hamas should be eliminated entirely, he’s repeatedly called on the government to limit civilian casualties. “The overwhelming majority of Palestinians had nothing to do with

Hamas,” he said Friday. UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly told Sky News, “It is in Israel’s interest to avoid civilian casualties and Palestinian casualties, because Hamas clearly wants to turn this into a wider Arab-Israeli war, or indeed a war between the Muslim world and the wider world. And none of us, including Israel, want that to be the case.” In the Middle East, Hamas isn’t seen as a global terror force the way ISIS and al Qaeda were. Instead, it’s often portrayed as an awful product of decades of oppression by Israel. Officials across the region—in Kuwait, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan and elsewhere—say their populations are restive as they watch Israel pound Gaza. Their citizens display a high degree of support for Hamas, making it hard for them to even condemn the October 7 attacks. They are pressuring the US for humanitarian aid to Gaza. Israeli officials chafe at what they see as hypocritical lecturing. “When the Americans went to Fallujah after 9/11, they didn’t ask questions about the humanitarian needs of Fallujah,” said Yaakov Amidror, who was Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s national security adviser a decade ago, speaking to foreign journalists. “The best example is the Second World War in which the whole free world fought against German Nazis, and no one asked about the humanitarian needs of the enemy. It’s a war against an enemy state.” In Israel, there is a sense that no matter what has happened before— settlement building, military incursions—history turned a new page on October 7 because of the level of savagery on display. The impact has been deeply personal in a small country where almost no one has been unaffected, and where many come from countries of pogroms and Holocaust. The Israeli military on Monday brought a dozen foreign correspondents to see a 42-minute compilation of the horrors of October 7, showing attackers stopping cars and shooting passengers, axing a dead body, burning a house and resting to drink water on a porch. The military’s chief spokesman, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, said, “We see this as a war against humanity, not just Israel.” In the coming days, visits by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and probably by Biden are likely to delay Israel’s invasion of Gaza. The more time passes, the wider the gap is likely to grow between the view held firmly by Israel and much of the rest of the world. With assistance from Henry Meyer and

Dejaresco . . .

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. His unpopularity had scaled up even before the Hamas attack. And now the total ineptitude of Israeli intelligence that allowed Hamas to attack so decisively. History may not be too kind to Netanyahu. Reading history—after any major battle that Israel engages in, the Prime Minister always loses his position. As in Golda Meir (after the You Kippur War), Menachem Begin (in 1982 after the first Lebanon war), and Ehud Olmert (2006 after the second Lebanon war). Will the Gaza problem be dramatically resolved and Netanyahu stay in power? The clock is indeed ticking and the world is watching Israel with stunned attention.

continued from A16

do military experiments abroad, like a violent engagement against Israel. On the sidelines, it is Russia who is secretly enjoying the scene since America’s attention will be divided now between Israel and Ukraine.

The aftermath

After Hamas’ obliteration, Israel is expected to insist that any future settlement of Palestinians, after that, will have to be outside the current boundaries of Israel. Worldwide support is also present for Palestine to finally have its own place as a nation. Post-Gaza and seeing the futility of violence in their region (as a consequence of the Hamas-foreseen defeat), many Arab nations will likely resolutely pursue the path of peace with Israel—after the gun smoke has settled. But not all will be well for Israel’s

Galit Altstein / Bloomberg

Bingo Dejaresco, a former banker, is a financial consultant, media practitioner, and author. He is a Life and Media member of Finex. His views here, however, are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of Finex. Dejarescobingo@yahoo.com

Dr. Rene E. Ofreneo

LABOREM EXERCENS

he lifting of EO 39 ordering the price caps on rice does not end the conflict between the proponents of “free trade” or the all-out liberalization in the market for agricultural products and the farmer leaders who are demanding the government’s adoption of a “fair trade” policy to govern the sector, meaning a policy supportive of the Filipino farmers. The two sides denounced the EO for different reasons. The “free trade” liberalizers found the EO repugnant because it is seen as a subversion of the free market, a disruption of the dynamic interplay of supply and demand forces. Accordingly, the all-out liberalization of the market for agricultural products, including their importation, is the best way to stabilize prices and secure ample supply of rice and other commodities at reasonable price for the consumers. In fact, through Neda, they even put pressure on the Tariff Commission to hear a petition for the lowering of tariffs for rice in order to lower the cost of imported rice. Failing on this, the “free trade” liberalizers shifted their attention on how to extend an earlier EO (10) lowering the tariffs on pork and corn beyond December 2023. As articulated by DOF Secretary Ben Diokno: All agricultural commodities, including rice, should eventually be levied lower tariffs. On the other hand, the “fair trade” farmer leaders were aghast at the timing of the EO 39 issuance. Why should the government cap rice prices during harvest season? The price cap would be seized by the big rice traders as the reason why they cannot buy palay at a higher price from the rice farmers. Hence, the collective anger of the leaders of farmer organizations against the EO. Subsequently, the anger was heaped on the efforts of Neda Secretary Ar-

senio Balisacan to prod the Tariff Commission to hold a hearing on the possible lowering of tariffs for imported rice. Such a tariff reduction would have the same impact as the EO 39: weakening the farmgate prices for palay produced at home. They added that lower rice tariffs would only benefit the elite buyers of specialty rice like the jasmine rice because the specialty rice constitute the bulk of the country’s imports. The conflict between the “fair trade” farmer leaders and the “free trade” agricultural liberalizers is really a battle of development frameworks. The two camps are using differing lenses. Below is a summary of how they differ: On food security for the nation. Both camps agree that national food security is attained when the country has enough supply of safe, nutritious and affordable food. To the “free trade” proponents, this is achieved by ensuring that supply deficits do not happen. A free market where weak production at home is balanced by timely importation is the solution. To the free traders, food security does not distinguish where food comes from or where it is grown. The point is to have enough supply of critical food items at affordable prices for the consumers. But the free traders are also concerned about the development of

farming at home. This they explain can happen if the farmers are nudged to compete in a liberalized market and to find their market “niches” by shifting production to other crops, especially to “high-value” crops. Let the market dictate on what are the best uses for the land. Let the market be the guide of the farmers to become more productive, that is, by being capable in responding to market competition. And yes, open up the market for competing foreign products. On the other hand, the “fair trade” farmer leaders argue that the free traders are blind to the realities obtaining in the global agricultural market, including the anti-liberalization policies taken by the developed countries, which preaches “free trade” on developing countries. The United States (through a Farm law) and Europe (through a Common Agricultural Policy) have been very protective of their domestic producers, pouring billions of dollars and euros into farm subsidies that make their farmers not only viable but also over-productive to the point that these countries have been dumping excess agricultural produce in the world market. Furthermore, in Asia, there is no model for a “free trade” agricultural regime that can be cited by Filipino free traders. India, which roiled the global rice market, has aggressive protectionist policies such as export controls of certain products (e.g., rice, sugar and wheat), fertilizer subsidy and lower excise taxes for fuel used by the farmers. Thailand, a major rice exporter, also has price controls and gives their farmers fertilizer and fuel subsidy. Indonesia and Malaysia have very strong food protectionist policy. And so is China, which is reported to maintain a buffer stock for cereals good for over half a year or so. Even the import-dependent Singapore has imposed strict rules on its food importers such as the requirement for importers to source imports from over a hundred countries to minimize dependence on

a few sources, the requirement for rice importers to maintain a rice buffer stock in government-designated warehouses, and a call for the citizenry to join the government in building food self-sufficiency (up to 30 percent in a city state with no agricultural land!) through verticalrooftop agriculture. On rural poverty. To the free traders, rural poverty is due to low farm productivity and low investments. Their solution: more liberalization to allow the more capable domestic and foreign investors to come in. They are even pushing for land market liberalization to enable these investors to come in. Their battle cry: “Let the efficient farmers buy out the inefficient ones.” To the fair traders, rural poverty is rooted in socio-economic inequality. Farmers and their families are weak or disempowered because they have no security on the land (due to the unfinished land reform), limited access to credit (which makes them dependent on informal usurious lenders), and limited education (which prevents them from mastering the science of nurturing the land). On value chains. Both appreciate the importance of value chains, from seed development to market development. For the free traders, the chains are best developed with the help of the big agribusiness integrators, especially the agribusiness multinationals. For the fair traders, the small and under-capitalized farmers can not develop the chains if the government does not come in and help them compete with the big corporations in the movement, processing, storage and distribution of agricultural produce. The above is a short outline of the differences in the looking glasses that the free traders and fair traders are using. Now the big question: which side will PBBM favor? Dr. Rene E. Ofreneo is a Professor Emeritus of the University of the Philippines. For comments, please write to reneofreneo@ gmail.com.

US plans to push other countries not to pay hacker ransoms By Katrina Manson

he US is pushing a group of governments to publicly commit to not make ransom payments to hackers ahead of an annual meeting of more than 45 nations in Washington later this month. Anne Neuberger, deputy national security adviser, told Bloomberg News that she is “incredibly hopeful” about enlisting support for such a statement but acknowledged it’s a “hard policy decision.” If members can’t agree to the statement in advance of the meeting, then it will be included as a discussion point, she said. Ransomware is a type of malicious code that encrypts a victim’s computer files, essentially rendering them useless. The hackers then demand a payment to provide a key to unlock them. Another popular type of extortion attack involves hackers stealing sensitive documents from a victim and demanding payment to not post them online. Such ransom attacks have grown in popularity in recent years, in part

Evergrande . . . continued from A16

more difficult,” according to Derek Lai, the global insolvency leader at Deloitte, whose team was appointed as the liquidator of Yango’s unit. What are some Evergrande assets in focus? Evergrande has more than 1,200 projects for sale, along with tourist resorts and land, according to its 2022 annual report. Chinese developers use a maze of subsidiaries to locally hold real estate projects, and Evergrande has over 100 major units onshore. The company also has a new energy vehicle unit, property service arm, and online housing sales platform. Fewer offshore real estate as-

preparedness and stronger interventions from law enforcement mean it’s now more feasible not to pay ransoms. She said more companies are now making backups so they can restore their systems if they are hacked, and that insurance company policies are incentivizing higher cybersecurity standards. The UK, which is co-leading the effort to counter illicit finance with Singapore under the counter ransomware initiative, didn’t reply to a request for comment. The Record, a publication by the cybersecurity firm Recorded Future Inc., previously reported the US push for a statement from governments not to pay ransoms. Neuberger, who is attending this week’s Singapore International Cyber Week, is also making a push for greater disclosures in cryptocurrency transactions to help curb money laundering. She wants to expand the number of countries that implement “Know Your Customer” rules for cryptocurrency firms, at least on a voluntary basis. With assistance from Ja-

because they are so profitable for hackers. That’s because victims often conclude that it’s easier to pay the ransom and restore operations than push back against the hackers’ demands. The aim of the statement is to change that calculus, Neuberger said. “Ransom payments are what’s driving ransomware,” she said. “That’s the reason we think it’s so needed.” “You’ve got to go to the root cause,” Neuberger said. “The root cause is money.” The statement is expected to apply to governments rather than companies that regularly fall victim to ransomware attacks. Neuberger indicated it would be a first step toward a broader effort to curb ransom payments to hackers. The Biden administration established an annual international summit to address ransomware in 2021, a gathering of cybersecurity leaders from different nations that were brought together to collaborate on ways to curb the attacks. The first summit came months after a cyberattack against Colonial Pipeline Co.

disrupted fuel supplies along the US East Coast and served as a broad wake-up call about the dangers of ransomware. Since the first meeting, the number of participants has expanded from 31 countries to more than 45. But more than two years after the Colonial Pipeline hack, a string of disruptive ransomware attacks on hospitals, manufacturing and casinos in recent months shows more still needs to be done to curb the crime, Neuberger said. “We’re going to eradicate the ghost of Colonial Pipeline,” she said, explaining the intention behind the October 31 meeting. Charles Carmakal, chief technology officer at Mandiant Consulting, is among those who argue that an outright ban is still far from feasible. “There’s so much more that needs to be done before you could outlaw extortion payments,” he told Bloomberg in September. “Law enforcement has to get more aggressive with threat actors and impose pain onto them.” But Neuberger argues that advances in cybersecurity standards,

mie Tarabay / Bloomberg

sets are up for grab. Evergrande’s prized tower in Hong Kong has been taken over by a lender. A land plot in the city’s Yuen Long area was sold for $637 million after it was seized by a receiver, an annual report shows. Another factor that would complicate a possible liquidation is Evergrande’s Chapter 15 bankruptcy filing in the US earlier this year. The filing enables the company to tap the US legal process designed to administer cross-border insolvencies and protect the debtor’s assets to a certain extent.

liquidation of onshore developers, and it may choose to shrug off the Hong Kong court order. And the vast majority of Evergrande assets—and other Chinese developers—are located onshore. “There is a layer of complexity as to whether China would actually recognize or assist foreign liquidators,” said Alan Tsui, a partner at JunHe Law Offices. “The recognition of Hong Kong wind-up order in mainland has been very limited.” In 2021, the courts of China and Hong Kong agreed to an arrangement to recognize the appointment of liquidators. So far, the Hong Kong court allowed five cases to seek mainland’s recognition, and two of them were successfully recognized

by Chinese courts, according to Deloitte’s data. But it could be a challenge to both jurisdictions to handle what would be the largest insolvency case in recent years. Mainland courts could also appoint “administrators” to local jurisdictions where a distressed developer’s main properties are located, Tsui said. “Hong Kong-appointed liquidators will have to see if they could gain control,” he said. The China government also has other priorities, such as appeasing a mass of homebuyers by helping to deliver what they bought from developers. “Delivering houses is one of our jobs,” Deloitte’s Lai said. “Social welfare is what the government cares about the most.”

How would China react to a Hong Kong court order? The Chinese government also would play an outsize role in any

A18 Wednesday, October 18, 2023

5 more business pledges from PBBM trips to bear fruit soon

By Samuel P. Medenilla

@sam_medenilla

N additional four to five business pledges from President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s overseas trips are expected to materialize soon after the government implemented “businessfriendly” measures and policies since last year, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

“There are two BPO (Business process outsourcing) companies offices, which will be inaugurated soon. So I would say, there will be four or five more [which will be inaugurated],” DTI Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo said in Filipino during a press briefing in Malacañang.

Since he started his term last year, the chief executive was able to visit 11 countries, which resulted in investment pledges for 130 project leads. Rodolfo said 11 of the project leads were realized, including two newly inaugurated manufactur-

ing factories. DTI made the disclosure after its sectoral meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. in Malacañang last Tuesday morning to update him on the investments pledges, which resulted from his overseas travels.

FDI surge

FROM January to September this year, DTI’s Board of Investments (BOI) reported that it approved P734 billion worth of investments--102 percent higher than the P362 billion worth of investments it approved in the same period in 2022. The bulk or P427 billion of the registered amount is accounted for by foreign direct investments (FDI), while the remaining P307 billion are from local sources. “If you compare it to the same period last year, it’s (FDI increase) actually a 4,150-percent increase,” Rodolfo said. “We are counting that really as having been significantly related to the [overseas] visit of the President,” he added.

Top FDI sources

Of the registered FDIs, 80 percent came from Germany. The

other top sources of FDIs include Japan and South Korea, according to Rodolfo. DTI attributed the spike in FDIs to the government’s removal of foreign equity restrictions (FER) on renewable energy projects before his participation in the Association of Southeast Asian Nation-European Union (Asean-EU) Summit in Brussels, Belgium last year. During the first nine months of the year, 90 percent of the approved FDIs are for renewable energy, while the other investments are in telecommunications, mineral processing among others. “So you can see the direct correlation between when the Department of Energy, as instructed by the President, removed that [foreign equity restriction], you can immediately see the entry of foreign investments,” Rodolfo said. He noted that while the FER was still in place, the country received minimal FDI for renewable energy. Other measures which help draw more FDI investments in the country, Rodolfo said, are the passage of Republic Act No. 11534 or the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act and the creation of green lanes for FDIs under Executive Order No. 18.

ERC URGED: COMPLETE WACC RESET, HELP POOR

HE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) was prodded on Tuesday to “complete and release the results of its long promised” reset of the Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) for both transmission and distribution charges that directly contribute to the rising power costs charged to consumers. Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros issued the statement after distribution utility giant Meralco confirmed that its power rate had gone up for the second consecutive month in October, warning it was “a move that may add P84 to the monthly power bill of a Filipino household consuming 200 kilowatt per Hour (kWh).” “Now that electricity charges went up again, we hope the ERC will release soon its report for the reset of the WACC of transmission operator National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), and end the WACC reset of distribution utilities like Meralco,” Hontiveros added, speaking mostly in Filipino. Moreover, the senator noted: “In this economic crisis, fixing the WACC rates will go a long way in lowering the transmission and distribution costs being passed on to consumers every month.”

Hontiveros, who has been calling for a review of WACC rates since 2019, explained that the WACC is one of the “building blocks” for computing power costs under the government’s rate-setting methodology called the “Performance-Based Regulation (PBR).” She noted that the WACC rates set for NGCP (15.04 percent) and distributors like Meralco (14.97 percent) are “shockingly excessive,” when compared to WACC rates allowed in neighboring countries like Malaysia (7.5) Thailand (7.2 percent) and Indonesia (2.3 percent). “In the 3rd Regulatory Period in 2015, the 15.04 percent WACC for NGCP allowed it to obtain a 66-percent profit, while the 14.97 percent WACC for Meralco allowed it to obtain a 48-percent profit,” the senator noted. That meant, she said, that “only 34 percent of NGCP’s collections and 52 percent of Meralco’s collections went to capital recovery, operation costs and maintenance.” If WACC were brought down to a “reasonable rate of 8 percent, the big profits of NGCP and Meralco will be reduced, and the transmission and distribution charge imposed on consumers will also go down,” she explained. Continued on A4

GEARING UP Personnel of the City Treasurer's Office (CTO) in Quezon City rush the cleaning of the ballot boxes for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) at Quezon City Hall compound on Tuesday (October 17, 2023). The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday reiterated the strict prohibitions for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) campaign period, from October 19 to 28. NONOY LACZA

Eternal Gardens workers released after 3 days of ‘illegal detention,’ company vows legal action

WO employees of Eternal Gardens whom the company said were the victims of “unjust arrest” and “illegal detention” were released on Monday (October 16) after three days in detention on the basis of a complaint filed by an officer of the Batangas City Prosecutor’s Office for alleged theft of a marble marker. However, the company said it will “pursue legal actions available under the circumstance to guarantee the protection of its employees’ rights, and ensure that those responsible for these unjust actions will be held accountable.” It called on the Department of Justice and the Philippine National Police “to take prompt action and support a thorough, impartial investigation into the blatant violations of established protocols and legal procedures.” The employees were taken in by Batangas cops on a warrantless arrest after a client of Eternal Gardens took the issue with a missing marker (lapida) that was being cleaned ahead of the ‘Undas’ commemoration. Despite explanations by company officials, the client, a city prosecutor, caused the arrest of two employees, and had them detained until Monday, when the company posted bail for them.

BELOW IS FULL STATEMENT OF ETERNAL GARDENS: SIGNIFICANT developments have occurred since the incident involving the unjust arrest of two of our employees by the PNP Batangas City on Friday, October 13, 2023 pursuant to the complaint filed by a member of the Batangas City Prosecutor’s Office regarding an alleged theft of a marble marker. Early this evening, October 16, 2023, after having been detained for three days, both of our employees have been released from custody after we posted bail on their behalf. These employees, who were simply trying to assist a client with her concerns, have been wrongly accused and illegally detained, suffered trauma and were emotionally and physically affected by the events that transpired. The impact of this incident extends not only to them but also to their families and our company as a whole. We want to assure everyone that the management of Eternal Gardens is fully committed to ensuring that justice is served

in this matter. We wish to reiterate our serious concern about the blatant misuse of power carrying out a warrantless arrest in a situation that did not warrant such actions. Additionally, we condemn the violation of our workers’ rights, especially their right to be secured from illegal arrest and the denial of their right to legal representation during the custodial investigation and the inquest. The company continues to condemn the blatant disregard of these rights and will pursue legal actions available under the circumstance to guarantee the protection of its employees’ rights, and ensure that those responsible for these unjust actions will be held accountable. Once again, we call on the Department of Justice and the Philippine National Police to take prompt action and support a thorough, impartial investigation into the blatant violations of established protocols and legal procedures. We thank you for your continued trust in Eternal Gardens.

Companies BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Alternergy will start building new projects in 2024—exec

By Lenie Lectura

@llectura

lternergy Holdings Corp. (Alternergy) said construction of its renewable energy (RE) projects would go full blast in the next two years. “A lternergy is entering the next phase of our growth momentum. We will build on past year’s successes. For next two years, we will be on full-swing construction mode for our wind and solar projects and at the same time completing the construction of our run-of-river hydro projects,” said Alternergy Chairman Vicente S. Pérez Jr. The power firm’s run-of-river hydro projects are expected to

be completed in 2024 while the construction of the Tanay and Alabat wind power projects with a combined capacity of up to 164 megawatts (MW) will also commence in 2024. Two of Alternergy’s solar portfolio, Solana and Apulid solar projects, with a combined capacity of up to 109MW/80MW, will also commence construction in 2024 and 2025, respectively. The listed firm posted a consol-

idated net income of P38 million for its fiscal year ended June 30, 2023 due to increased revenues, recovering from its net loss of P145.2 million for the six-month period ended June 2022. Alternergy group’s cash ballooned by 113 percent to P1.2 billion as of June 2023 boosted by the proceeds from the initial public offering (IPO) in March. From the IPO proceeds, P720 million was allocated to the predevelopment of 6 RE projects totaling 183 MW under the group’s triple play pipeline of wind, solar, and hydro projects. As a result, consolidated assets surged by 41 percent to P4.9 billion as of June 2023, up from P3.4 billion from June 2022, as continued investments were injected into the group’s three projects under construction. These projects are the solar farm and

battery project in Palau and two run-of-river hydro projects in Nueva Ecija and Ifugao. One of the group’s solar power projects is near completion. The 13.2-megawatt (MW) Palau solar farm and battery project is on schedule to achieve formal commercial operations by the last quarter of 2023. “In 2023, we reached new heights as the first company to go public. Alternergy also entered the international landscape with the completion of our solar PV + battery energy storage system project, the first in the Republic of Palau and the largest to date in the Western Pacific region making it one of the most significant foreign direct investments in the island nation. The project will meet more than 20 percent of Palau’s energy needs,” Alternergy President Gerry Magbanua said.

‘Malampaya plant hits safety milestone’

he subsidiary of Enrique Razon’s Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. has recorded another year of zero incidents of harm at the Malampaya Onshore Gas Plant (MOGP). The MOGP receives the gas from the platform for further processing before it is sent to four gas powerplant customers—1000MW Sta. Rita, 500MW San Lorenzo, 414MW San Gabriel, and 97MW Avion. The natural gas extracted is processed in a nearby shallow water production platform and transported across three provinces through an underwater pipeline before it is sent to the MOGP. Prime Energy Resources Development B.V., operator of the Malampaya Deepwater Gas-to-Power project,

said it has hit a milestone on safety in more than two decades of operating at the gas field. For 22 years, Prime Energy Managing Director and General Manager Donnabel Cruz said its “goal zero” program has “brought no harm to people, the community, or the environment, and no significant process safety incidents.” “This achievement sets a precedent for our unyielding commitment to our core values of safety, honesty, integrity, respect, value creation, and tenacity. It underscores not only our dedication to these principles but also our responsibilities as an energy provider, assuring our stakeholders of our utmost commitment to excellence in all we do,” said Cruz. Lenie Lectura

MUTUAL FUNDS

October 17, 2023

NAV One Year Three Year Five Year Y-T-D per share Return* Return Stock Funds ALFM Growth Fund, Inc. -a 201.22 5.77% 1.08% -3.33% -1.73% -3.51% ATRAM Alpha Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 1.4509 16.62% 10.37% 1.21% 1.34% 7.94% ATRAM Philippine Equity Opportunity Fund, Inc. -a 2.7683 5.85% 1.61% -5.65% -3.34% -5.03% Climbs Share Capital Equity Investment Fund Corp. -a 0.6754 2.69% 0.15% -4.68% n.a -2.65% First Metro Consumer Fund, Inc. -a 0.6265 1.95% -2.4% -4.44% n.a -3.41% First Metro Save and Learn Equity Fund, Inc. -a 4.4571 4.72% 2.14% -1.87% -1.45% -4.15% First Metro Save and Learn Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.663 4.52% 0.53% n.a n.a -5.43% MBG Equity Investment Fund, Inc. -a 85.45 13.13% 0.22% -4.9% n.a 13.54% PAMI Equity Index Fund, Inc. -a 41.1253 5.98% 1.67% -2.32% n.a -4.79% Philam Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a 426.81 5.34% 0.56% -2.41% -1.79% -3.97% Philequity Dividend Yield Fund, Inc. -a 1.1777 6.26% 5.66% -0.29% n.a 0.22% Philequity Fund, Inc. -a 32.3103 6.86% 3.34% -1.44% 0.19% -2.96% Philequity MSCI Philippine Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.819 7.64% 2.08% n.a n.a -3.51% Philequity PSE Index Fund, Inc. -a 4.3215 7.14% 2.64% -1.45% 0.11% -3.87% Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a 719.11 6.86% 2.48% -1.51% -0.08% -3.99% Soldivo Strategic Growth Fund, Inc. -a 0.6451 6.75% 1.98% -4.4% n.a -4.3% Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Equity Fund, Inc. -a 3.2131 5.93% 1.6% -3.5% -1.74% -4.75% Sun Life Prosperity Philippine Stock Index Fund, Inc. -a 0.8158 6.49% 2.15% -1.83% n.a -4.24% United Fund, Inc. -a 3.0024 6.38% 2.29% -1.95% -0.95% -2.97% Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) COL Equity Index Unitized Mutual Fund, Inc. -a 1.0125 4.18% n.a n.a n.a -4.14% COL Strategic Growth Equity Unitized Mutual Fund, Inc. -a,20.9985 n.a n.a n.a n.a n.a Philequity Alpha One Fund, Inc. -a 0.9921 7.13% 3.09% n.a n.a -5.19% Philippine Stock Index Fund Corp. -a 872.8 6.67% n.a n.a n.a -4.04% Exchange Traded Fund (shares) First Metro Phil. Equity Exchange Traded Fund, Inc. -a,c97.5831 7.55% 2.87% -1.22% n.a -3.5% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) ATRAM AsiaPlus Equity Fund, Inc. -b $0.7988 3.1% -9.66% -3.18% -1.97% -6.24% Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, Inc. -a $1.5205 15.39% -1.26% 4.53% n.a 6.78% Balanced Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ATRAM Dynamic Allocation Fund, Inc. -a 1.4467 -2.6% -2.35% -1.89% -2.16% -2.56% ATRAM Philippine Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 2.1179 5.24% 1.33% -0.12% -0.22% 0.6% First Metro Save and Learn Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 2.4354 2.91% 0.72% 0.09% -1.61% -2.79% First Metro Save and Learn F.O.C.C.U.S. Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.1887 2.33% 1.45% n.a n.a -2.48% NCM Mutual Fund of the Phils., Inc. -a 1.8792 4.13% 0.88% 1.12% 0.36% -3.36% PAMI Horizon Fund, Inc. -a 3.4179 4.91% -0.25% 0.38% -0.57% -0.69% Philam Fund, Inc. -a 14.9828 3.24% -0.91% -0.16% -0.87% -1.05% Solidaritas Fund, Inc. -a 1.9707 4.66% 1.16% -0.25% 0.47% -0.96% Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Balanced Fund, Inc. -a 3.2828 4.45% 0.51% -1.37% -0.97% -1.41% Sun Life Prosperity Dynamic Fund, Inc. -a 0.8676 5.62% 3.19% -0.62% n.a -1.29% Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2028, Inc. -a 0.9165 5.13% -0.52% n.a n.a 0.14% Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2038, Inc. -a 0.8117 5.77% -0.47% n.a n.a -2.86% Sun Life Prosperity Achiever Fund 2048, Inc. -a 0.792 5.4% -0.33% n.a n.a -3.71% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) -6.9% -1.81% -0.05% -2.47% Cocolife Dollar Fund Builder, Inc. -a $0.03162 1.12% PAMI Asia Balanced Fund, Inc. -b $0.8565 7.32% -7.08% -1.71% -1.74% -4.41% Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Advantage Fund, Inc. -a $3.9382 8.48% -2.81% 2.21% 2.5% 2.4% Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Wellspring Fund, Inc. -a $0.9601 3.1% -5.26% -0.68% n.a -1.18% Bond Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ALFM Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a 386.99 3.09% 1.63% 2.54% 2.13% 2.45% ATRAM Corporate Bond Fund, Inc. -a 1.8944 1.22% -1% 0.45% 0.01% 1.05% 0.86% 2.24% 3.76% 2.37% Cocolife Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a 3.2871 2.15% Ekklesia Mutual Fund, Inc. -a 2.2361 3.33% -0.84% 1.11% 1.11% 2.69% First Metro Save and Learn Fixed Income Fund, Inc. -a 2.4176 1.24% -0.44% 1.8% 1.13% 1.1% Philam Bond Fund, Inc. -a 4.1869 0.57% -3.34% 2.17% 0.5% 0.95% Philam Managed Income Fund, Inc. -a 1.3562 2.93% 1.12% 2.96% 1.64% 2.76% Philequity Peso Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.9758 3.16% 0.15% 2.86% 1.46% 2.77% Soldivo Bond Fund, Inc. -a 1.0392 2.88% 0.04% 3.63% n.a 2.22% 1.84% Sun Life of Canada Prosperity Bond Fund, Inc. -a 3.2349 3.8% 0.54% 3.31% 2.83% Sun Life Prosperity GS Fund, Inc. -a 1.7317 2.88% -0.25% 2.51% 1.24% 2.12% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) ALFM Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $489.41 2.33% 0.59% 1.89% 2.48% 1.95% ALFM Euro Bond Fund, Inc. -a Є211.24 1.63% -1% -0.18% 0.74% 0.76% ATRAM Total Return Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -b $1.019 2.52% -6.58% -1.88% -0.06% 0.95% First Metro Save and Learn Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a $0.024 0.42% -3.25% -0.65% n.a 1.27% PAMI Global Bond Fund, Inc -b $0.8291 -1.25% -8.81% -4.15% -3.44% -4.18% $2.1535 2.95% -5.12% 0.17% 1.27% -1.24% Philam Dollar Bond Fund, Inc. -a Philequity Dollar Income Fund, Inc. -a $0.0606169 1.57% -0.66% 1.29% 1.59% 1.2% Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. -a $2.5717 -0.5% -7.23% -2.23% -0.26% -5.51% Money Market Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (shares) ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 135.9 2.31% 1.68% 2.54% 1.99% 2% First Metro Save and Learn Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 1.1005 3% 1.71% n.a n.a 2.51% Sun Life Prosperity Peso Starter Fund, Inc. -a 1.3675 2.61% 1.92% 2.47% 1.94% 2.17% Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) ALFM Money Market Fund, Inc. -a 103.63 3.73% n.a n.a n.a 3.17% Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (shares) Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Starter Fund, Inc. -a $1.0884 1.98% 1.2% 1.47% n.a 1.72% Feeder Funds Primarily invested in Peso securities (units) ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund, Inc. -a 41.5027 -5.97% n.a n.a n.a -3.33% 9.06% n.a n.a Sun Life Prosperity World Equity Index Feeder Fund, Inc. -a 1.3636 14.04% 10.67% Sun Life Prosperity World Income Fund, Inc. -a,1 0.9585 n.a n.a n.a n.a n.a Primarily invested in foreign currency securities (Units) ALFM Global Multi-Asset Income Fund, Inc. -a $0.7537 -2.22% -7.43% n.a n.a -4.98%

a - NAVPS as of the previous banking day. b - NAVPS as of two banking days ago. c - Listed in the PSE. 1 - Renaming was approved by the SEC last July 8, 2021 (formerly, Sun Life Prosperity Money Market Fund, Inc.). 2 - Adjusted due to stock dividend issuance last November 25, 2022. 3 - Re-classified into a Index Fund starting December 5, 2019 (formerly an Equity Fund) 4 - Renaming was approved by the SEC last October 14, 2021 (formerly, First Metro Consumer Fund on MSCI Phils. IMI, Inc.). 5 - Launch date is October 4, 2022. 6 - Launch date is August 22, 2023. “While we endeavor to keep the information accurate, the Philippine Investment Funds Association (PIFA) and its members make no warranties as to the correctness of the newspaper’s publication and assume no liability or responsibility for any error or omissions. You may visit http://www.

pifa. com.ph to see the latest NAVPS/NAVPU.”

www.businessmirror.com.ph

PSE STOCK QUOTATIONS

October 17, 2023

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

ASIA UNITED BDO UNIBANK BANK COMMERCE BANK PH ISLANDS CHINABANK CITYSTATE BANK EAST WEST BANK METROBANK PB BANK PHIL NATL BANK PSBANK RCBC SECURITY BANK UNION BANK BRIGHT KINDLE COL FINANCIAL FIRST ABACUS FERRONOUX HLDG MEDCO HLDG MANULIFE NTL REINSURANCE PHIL STOCK EXCH SUN LIFE

44.2 135 7.3 107.7 30.4 5.09 9.4 52.4 8.4 18.7 54.5 23.25 78.1 62.25 1.38 2.89 0.57 2.77 0.086 1,020 0.39 174.5 2,600

46 135.3 7.44 107.8 30.5 6.96 9.42 52.95 8.6 18.76 55 24 78.75 62.75 1.41 2.9 0.7 2.82 0.127 1,098 0.465 175 2,650

46 134 7.3 106.8 30.5 6.6 9.28 53 8.4 18.66 55.55 23.5 78.5 63.5 1.43 2.89 0.56 2.77 0.085 1,098 0.39 175 2,650

46 135.9 7.3 108.5 30.6 6.96 9.4 53.5 8.4 18.8 55.55 24 78.85 63.5 1.53 2.94 0.57 2.77 0.085 1,098 0.39 175 2,650

46 133.6 7.3 106.5 30.4 6.6 9.12 52.4 8.4 18.66 55.55 23.5 78.1 62.1 1.36 2.88 0.56 2.77 0.085 1,098 0.39 174.1 2,600

46 135.3 7.3 107.8 30.5 6.96 9.4 52.4 8.4 18.7 55.55 23.95 78.1 62.75 1.41 2.9 0.57 2.77 0.085 1,098 0.39 175 2,600

2,000 10,092,250 800 926,030 161,700 1,400 389,300 1,310,290 2,000 76,600 50 30,000 45,000 243,750 739,000 503,000 10,000 57,000 10,000 20 1,560,000 1,890 475

92,000 1,363,144,890 5,840 99,786,907 4,925,200 9,276 3,642,224 69,272,313.50 16,800 1,432,410 2,777.50 719,675 3,526,401 15,279,721 1,035,750 1,451,960 5,690 157,890 850 21,960 608,400 330,714 1,253,750

INDUSTRIAL

-41,845,915 9,417,495 6,130 1,962,000 -27,012,777 -607,200 755,273 -4,582,635 -294,780 78,000 -175,000 -

ACEN CORP 5.26 5.27 ALSONS CONS 0.58 0.61 ALTERNERGY HLDG 0.85 0.86 ABOITIZ POWER 36.75 36.85 RASLAG 1.38 1.39 BASIC ENERGY 0.197 0.199 FIRST GEN 18.3 18.7 FIRST PHIL HLDG 60.7 62.6 MERALCO 378 380 MANILA WATER 18.04 18.1 PETRON 3.39 3.4 PETROENERGY 4.31 4.68 PHX PETROLEUM 5.71 6 5.6 5.7 REPOWER ENERGY 7.92 7.93 SYNERGY GRID 13.46 13.48 SHELL PILIPINAS SPC POWER 7.9 7.92 AGRINURTURE 2.48 2.49 1.92 2 AXELUM CNTRL AZUCARERA 11.04 12.36 CENTURY FOOD 29.4 29.75 7.55 7.7 DEL MONTE DNL INDUS 6.36 6.38 20.8 20.85 EMPERADOR 51.95 52 SMC FOODANDBEV FIGARO COFFEE 0.68 0.69 ALLIANCE SELECT 0.51 0.52 FRUITAS HLDG 1.07 1.08 GINEBRA 166.9 170 JOLLIBEE 219 219.4 KEEPERS HLDG 1.44 1.45 MACAY HLDG 8 8.1 MAXS GROUP 4.25 4.27 MG HLDG 0.1 0.114 MONDE NISSIN 8.3 8.33 SHAKEYS PIZZA 9.29 9.5 ROXAS AND CO 0.52 0.53 3.01 3.09 RFM CORP 0.65 0.73 ROXAS HLDG UNIV ROBINA 114.6 114.9 0.53 0.54 VITARICH CONCRETE A 40.05 44.55 CEMEX HLDG 0.92 0.96 0.83 0.85 EC VULCAN CORP 4.8 4.81 EEI CORP MEGAWIDE 3.17 3.19 PHINMA 20 20.4 CROWN ASIA 1.55 1.59 PRYCE CORP 5.18 5.22 CONCEPCION 14.82 15.3 GREENERGY 0.455 0.46 INTEGRATED MICR 3.69 3.72 IONICS 1.37 1.38 PANASONIC 4.61 4.89 SFA SEMICON 2.17 2.21 CIRTEK HLDG 1.91 1.93

5.23 0.58 0.8 37 1.33 0.199 18.4 60.65 375 18.14 3.45 4.33 5.49 5.55 7.86 13.5 8 2.58 1.92 11.04 29.6 7.7 6.28 20.8 51.7 0.67 0.51 1.11 169.5 218 1.43 7.42 4.28 0.101 8.25 9.3 0.53 3.09 0.72 114.2 0.55 40.15 0.92 0.81 4.72 3.15 20 1.59 5.17 15.3 0.455 3.72 1.29 4.93 2.18 1.9

5.3 0.58 0.88 37.05 1.42 0.199 18.42 62.7 380 18.14 3.45 4.33 6 5.7 7.99 13.5 8 2.6 1.92 12.46 29.95 7.7 6.39 21 52 0.69 0.52 1.13 171 220.6 1.47 8.08 4.3 0.114 8.33 9.3 0.53 3.09 0.73 115.7 0.55 40.15 0.93 0.85 4.9 3.2 20 1.59 5.22 15.3 0.465 3.72 1.38 4.93 2.22 1.95

5.2 0.58 0.8 36.75 1.29 0.197 18.2 60.65 375 18 3.39 4.33 5.49 5.55 7.86 13.46 7.89 2.47 1.92 11.04 29.4 7.7 6.28 20.8 50.9 0.66 0.51 1.08 166.5 217.4 1.43 7.42 4.27 0.1 8.2 9.26 0.52 3.01 0.72 113.3 0.52 40.1 0.92 0.81 4.72 3.14 20 1.55 5.17 14.82 0.445 3.71 1.29 4.93 2.17 1.88

5.26 0.58 0.86 36.85 1.39 0.197 18.3 60.7 380 18.1 3.39 4.33 5.71 5.7 7.93 13.48 7.92 2.49 1.92 12.44 29.75 7.7 6.36 20.8 51.95 0.68 0.52 1.08 170.5 219 1.43 8 4.27 0.114 8.33 9.29 0.53 3.01 0.73 114.9 0.54 40.1 0.92 0.85 4.81 3.19 20 1.55 5.18 14.84 0.46 3.71 1.37 4.93 2.17 1.93

4,419,900 120,000 3,750,000 1,346,700 1,313,000 830,000 217,200 2,790 257,580 47,500 334,000 764,000 5,400 10,000 193,600 71,400 53,200 958,000 15,000 600 475,700 29,000 2,504,100 319,200 35,370 23,567,000 5,000 10,558,000 3,350 402,750 526,000 9,401,000 65,000 210,000 10,628,400 5,400 342,000 59,000 3,000 1,478,930 374,000 400 811,000 1,820,000 585,000 99,000 1,500 18,000 18,300 1,400 16,360,000 28,000 5,423,000 1,000 581,000 205,000

23,221,113 69,600 3,193,910 49,659,305 1,807,690 164,680 3,971,542 170,195 97,747,324 857,302 1,134,290 3,308,120 31,076 56,660 1,536,268 963,278 421,485 2,390,270 28,800 7,182 14,148,840 223,300 15,890,162 6,646,090 1,824,019 15,968,560 2,590 11,544,570 570,630 88,279,622 758,810 69,756,328 278,720 21,280 87,971,234 50,136 181,020 178,630 2,170 169,914,617 195,970 16,050 747,220 1,523,220 2,809,290 312,720 30,000 28,300 94,841 20,912 7,452,850 104,030 7,326,250 4,930 1,273,540 389,510

-655,244 6,086,345 -1,246,212.00 -17,595 16,139,378 -46,750 -71,460 19,985 5,650 -258,661 -306,570 3,473,620 -847,688 -3,838,535 -263,520 -298,820 -38,710 511,500 -8,236,566 -38,090 -69,745,032 34,400 -11,393,548 21,378 -138,460 -99,933,598 -596,820 17,000 3,102 -1,482 358,200 -760,490 -436,160 -150

ABACORE CAPITAL ASIABEST GROUP AYALA CORP ABOITIZ EQUITY ALLIANCE GLOBAL ANSCOR ANGLO PHIL HLDG ATN HLDG A COSCO CAPITAL DMCI HLDG FILINVEST DEV GT CAPITAL HOUSE OF INV JG SUMMIT LODESTAR LT GROUP PRIME MEDIA SOLID GROUP SM INVESTMENTS SAN MIGUEL CORP TOP FRONTIER

1.1 3.02 617 49.7 11.8 11 0.5 0.4 4.67 10.48 5.5 562.5 3.9 38 0.44 9.05 2.81 0.92 808 103.5 112.2

1.12 3.02 623.5 50 11.9 11.06 0.5 0.4 4.69 10.56 5.5 571 3.9 39.15 0.465 9.1 2.95 0.92 817.5 104 121

1.09 3.02 615 49.6 11.72 11 0.5 0.38 4.64 10.48 5.5 562 3.9 38 0.44 9.01 2.81 0.92 807 103 112.2

1.09 3.02 620 49.75 11.8 11.06 0.5 0.38 4.64 10.54 5.5 564 3.9 39 0.455 9.01 2.85 0.92 817 104 121

6,996,000 1,000 113,340 793,300 3,947,300 2,700 1,579,000 90,000 77,000 4,567,500 6,000 140,870 10,000 1,250,700 40,000 1,100,600 225,000 1,950,000 346,260 17,000 1,810

7,708,410 3,020 70,289,900 39,525,815 46,468,992 29,742 789,500 35,800 359,730 48,006,684 33,000 79,635,565 39,000 48,717,625 18,150 9,951,970 651,140 1,794,000 281,370,710 1,760,090 216,314

-2,982,450 7,294,475 5,298,250 -2,813,298 -191,350 982,932 -17,753,540 10,628,645 -2,656,256 4,600 6,299,475 -863,389 215,192

HOLDING & FRIMS

1.09 3.02 620 49.75 11.78 11 0.495 0.38 4.64 10.52 5 563 3.58 38.8 0.45 9 2.85 0.92 816 103.1 113

1.11 3.66 622 49.85 11.8 11.06 0.53 0.4 4.68 10.54 5.5 564 3.76 39 0.48 9.01 2.9 0.97 817 104 119

PROPERTY ARTHALAND CORP 0.445 0.46 0.445 0.465 0.445 0.465 520,000 232,250 AYALA LAND 29.3 29.35 29 29.45 28.95 29.3 10,096,400 294,437,225 AYALA LAND LOG 1.83 1.84 1.8 1.84 1.8 1.83 1,103,000 2,019,300 ALTUS PROP 8.8 9.49 9.49 9.49 9.49 9.49 100 949 ARANETA PROP 1.05 1.08 1.09 1.09 1.05 1.09 465,000 489,750 AREIT RT 33.15 33.2 33.65 33.65 33 33.15 194,100 6,464,060 A BROWN 0.67 0.7 0.68 0.68 0.68 0.68 290,000 197,200 CROWN EQUITIES 0.071 0.074 0.071 0.074 0.071 0.074 30,000 2,160 CEB LANDMASTERS 2.54 2.58 2.54 2.59 2.54 2.58 152,000 387,580 CENTURY PROP 0.32 0.325 0.32 0.32 0.315 0.32 260,000 82,600 CITICORE RT 2.54 2.55 2.55 2.55 2.53 2.54 1,005,000 2,545,160 DOUBLEDRAGON 7.01 7.05 7.11 7.11 7 7.01 35,000 247,297 DDMP RT 1.29 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.29 1.3 581,000 752,680 6.3 6.49 6.38 6.38 6.3 6.3 146,400 923,120 DM WENCESLAO EMPIRE EAST 0.152 0.153 0.147 0.155 0.143 0.152 30,470,000 4,527,430 0.285 0.295 0.275 0.3 0.275 0.295 900,000 266,250 EVER GOTESCO 2.99 3.03 3.02 3.03 2.99 2.99 512,000 1,535,580 FILINVEST RT 0.62 0.63 0.62 0.63 0.61 0.63 2,058,000 1,271,410 FILINVEST LAND 8.92 9.37 9.09 9.45 8.71 9.45 288,400 2,586,572 8990 HLDG 790.5 810 810 810 810 810 10 8,100 GOLDEN MV PHIL INFRADEV 0.55 0.57 0.6 0.61 0.55 0.57 1,041,000 599,710 CITY AND LAND 0.78 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 21,000 16,800 MEGAWORLD 2.07 2.08 2.07 2.09 2.07 2.08 5,930,000 12,323,890 0.188 0.193 0.189 0.196 0.188 0.193 3,270,000 625,730 MRC ALLIED MREIT RT 12.18 12.3 12.22 12.22 12.18 12.18 1,550,900 18,902,144 PREMIERE RT 1.53 1.54 1.57 1.57 1.53 1.54 279,000 431,480 RL COMM RT 4.88 4.89 4.9 4.9 4.86 4.89 289,000 1,412,120 ROBINSONS LAND 14.96 15.04 15.16 15.16 14.96 14.96 738,200 11,097,522 PHIL REALTY 0.157 0.179 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18 200,000 36,000 ROCKWELL 1.4 1.45 1.35 1.4 1.35 1.4 12,000 16,350 SHANG PROP 3.5 3.58 3.5 3.58 3.5 3.58 26,000 92,300 STA LUCIA LAND 3.06 3.18 3.18 3.18 3.18 3.18 5,000 15,900 SM PRIME HLDG 31.7 31.85 31 31.85 31 31.85 6,063,900 192,061,060 VISTAMALLS 2.26 2.47 2.47 2.47 2.47 2.47 1,000 2,470 SUNTRUST RESORT 0.79 0.83 0.85 0.85 0.79 0.79 89,000 71,700 VISTA LAND 1.67 1.69 1.67 1.69 1.67 1.68 48,000 80,510 VISTAREIT RT 1.66 1.69 1.69 1.69 1.62 1.69 713,000 1,188,470 SERVICES ABS CBN 4 4.09 4 4.1 3.95 4.1 85,000 338,640 GMA NETWORK 8.34 8.35 8.26 8.37 8.26 8.35 166,000 1,384,561 MLA BRDCASTING 7.2 7.25 7.2 7.2 7.2 7.2 300 2,160 GLOBE TELECOM 1,792 1,800 1,790 1,810 1,790 1,792 36,045 64,701,560 PLDT 1,230 1,234 1,229 1,235 1,217 1,230 44,830 55,151,580 APOLLO GLOBAL 0.016 0.017 0.018 0.018 0.016 0.017 706,700,000 12,026,700 CONVERGE 10.24 10.26 9.87 10.3 9.87 10.24 10,609,900 107,751,493 DITO CME HLDG 3.59 3.6 3.64 3.85 3.58 3.6 30,959,000 115,524,900 NOW CORP 1.39 1.4 1.34 1.44 1.34 1.4 3,562,000 4,993,410 TRANSPACIFIC BR 0.151 0.156 0.152 0.156 0.151 0.151 620,000 94,040 ASIAN TERMINALS 14.86 15.46 15.5 15.5 14.86 15.46 2,900 44,714 CHELSEA 1.31 1.33 1.25 1.34 1.25 1.33 1,182,000 1,550,050 CEBU AIR 33.05 33.2 33.1 33.3 33.05 33.05 148,300 4,909,660 215 215.4 209.4 215.6 209.4 215 3,125,750 670,143,454 INTL CONTAINER 3.96 3.97 4.01 4.01 3.97 3.97 403,000 1,608,560 MACROASIA 0.5 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.5 0.5 9,000 4,600 METROALLIANCE A PAL HLDG 5.24 5.28 5.27 5.28 5.2 5.2 6,900 36,125 HARBOR STAR 0.75 0.79 0.79 0.79 0.79 0.79 2,000 1,580 WATERFRONT 0.4 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 220,000 92,400 CENTRO ESCOLAR 8.47 8.95 8.9 8.9 8.6 8.6 5,400 46,500 555.5 589 575 590 575 589 100 58,530 FAR EASTERN U IPEOPLE 6.56 7 7.4 7.4 7 7 12,100 85,100 STI HLDG 0.415 0.42 0.415 0.42 0.41 0.42 1,070,000 442,050 1.19 1.22 1.22 1.22 1.18 1.22 32,000 38,840 BELLE CORP BLOOMBERRY 10.26 10.3 10.24 10.3 10.2 10.26 5,012,200 51,370,052 PACIFIC ONLINE 3.75 3.79 3.78 3.83 3.69 3.79 211,000 795,490 PH RESORTS GRP 0.83 0.84 0.79 0.87 0.78 0.84 12,290,000 10,329,550 PREMIUM LEISURE 0.56 0.58 0.56 0.58 0.56 0.57 6,048,000 3,439,030 DIGIPLUS 6.58 6.59 7 7.07 6.59 6.59 7,114,200 47,855,775 PHILWEB 1.83 1.87 1.86 1.9 1.82 1.87 107,000 197,330 ALLDAY 0.178 0.184 0.181 0.185 0.176 0.184 11,300,000 2,031,080 BERJAYA 7.04 8 7.03 7.99 7.03 7.99 200 1,502 ALLHOME 1.66 1.68 1.67 1.73 1.64 1.68 2,473,000 4,134,430 METRO RETAIL 1.16 1.2 1.21 1.21 1.2 1.2 72,000 86,680 PUREGOLD 29.55 29.6 29.4 30.15 29.4 29.6 12,548,800 373,232,915 ROBINSONS RTL 45.4 45.45 46 46 45.35 45.45 242,000 11,037,220 PHIL SEVEN CORP 76.1 79 79 79 76.1 76.1 20 1,551 2.9 2.92 2.92 2.92 2.89 2.9 235,000 682,540 SSI GROUP 1.64 1.69 1.73 1.73 1.63 1.64 150,000 250,500 UPSON INTL CORP 22.3 22.45 22.1 22.6 21.9 22.45 930,800 20,809,665 WILCON DEPOT 0.229 0.234 0.235 0.235 0.231 0.233 300,000 70,020 APC GROUP MEDILINES 0.41 0.425 0.425 0.425 0.41 0.41 70,000 29,200 PRMIERE HORIZON 0.197 0.2 0.195 0.2 0.195 0.2 310,000 61,670 MINING & OIL ATOK 4.67 4.99 5.49 5.49 5.49 5.49 1,000 5,490 APEX MINING 2.59 2.6 2.6 2.64 2.56 2.6 2,195,000 5,726,730 ATLAS MINING 3.36 3.45 3.34 3.47 3.34 3.34 816,000 2,737,490 BENGUET A 4.33 4.71 4.29 4.72 4.21 4.71 498,000 2,161,650 BENGUET B 4.29 4.47 4.29 4.55 4.26 4.47 126,000 551,500 CENTURY PEAK 3.11 3.2 3.19 3.2 3.19 3.2 100,000 319,780 FERRONICKEL 2.7 2.72 2.75 2.75 2.69 2.7 537,000 1,456,220 GEOGRACE 0.04 0.042 0.04 0.04 0.04 0.04 3,700,000 148,000 LEPANTO A 0.089 0.09 0.09 0.09 0.089 0.089 6,480,000 583,100 LEPANTO B 0.088 0.092 0.092 0.092 0.088 0.088 3,760,000 331,360 MANILA MINING A 0.0045 0.0046 0.0046 0.0046 0.0046 0.0046 89,000,000 409,400 MARCVENTURES 0.98 1.01 0.98 1.01 0.98 0.98 2,055,000 2,046,510 0.55 0.59 0.62 0.62 0.6 0.6 53,000 32,800 NIHAO NICKEL ASIA 5.94 5.95 5.95 5.99 5.88 5.94 3,161,300 18,779,799 0.7 0.71 0.7 0.71 0.69 0.7 296,000 207,150 ORNTL PENINSULA PX MINING 2.91 2.93 2.9 2.97 2.9 2.91 387,000 1,133,310 35.1 35.15 35.8 35.8 35.1 35.1 3,549,800 125,789,810 SEMIRARA MINING 0.0044 0.0048 0.0048 0.0048 0.0048 0.0048 1,000,000 4,800 UNITED PARAGON ENEX ENERGY 5.95 6.09 6.09 6.09 5.95 6.09 4,100 24,689 ORNTL PETROL A 0.0087 0.009 0.0087 0.0087 0.0086 0.0086 6,000,000 51,900 ORNTL PETROL B 0.0085 0.0089 0.0089 0.0089 0.0085 0.0085 41,000,000 364,500 PHILODRILL 0.0084 0.0085 0.0085 0.0085 0.0083 0.0084 35,000,000 296,800 PXP ENERGY 3.6 3.68 3.73 3.78 3.6 3.68 370,000 1,378,720 PREFFERED ACEN PREF B 1,031 1,035 1,035 1,035 1,035 1,035 3,665 3,793,275 AC PREF AR 2,466 2,468 2,466 2,466 2,466 2,466 70 172,620 AC PREF B1 499.6 500 499.6 499.6 499.6 499.6 20 9,992 BRN PREF A 97 99 99 99 99 99 520 51,480 CEB PREF 33.2 33.45 33.3 33.3 33.2 33.2 800 26,610 DD PREF 91.75 92 92.5 92.5 91.75 91.75 55,300 5,084,810 EEI PREF B 96 98 98 98 98 98 100 9,800 GTCAP PREF B 917 939.5 916.5 916.5 916.5 916.5 50 45,825 JFC PREF B 920 925 920 925 920 925 720 663,500 MWIDE PREF 5 100.8 101 101 101 101 101 1,260 127,260 PNX PREF 4 254 269.8 272 272 269.8 269.8 40 10,836 PCOR PREF 3A 965 970 970 970 970 970 1,840 1,784,800 PCOR PREF 3B 991 995 1,001 1,001 995 995 260 258,760 935 999 930 999 930 999 60 56,490 PCOR PREF 4A SMC PREF 2F 73.2 73.65 72.55 73.2 72.4 73.2 15,640 1,134,172 SMC PREF 2I 70.7 73.6 73.6 73.6 70.7 70.7 1,410 103,457 SMC PREF 2J 67.1 67.15 67 67.15 67 67.15 4,400 294,815 TECH PREF B2D 49 49.8 48.5 49 48.5 49 200 9,750

PHIL. DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ABS HLDG PDR GMA HLDG PDR

WARRANTS

TECH WARRANT

3.64 3.8 3.7 3.7 3.64 3.64 59,000 7.44 8.2 7.43 7.43 7.43 7.43 300 0.35

0.375

0.36

0.375

0.36

0.375

20,000

84,560,975 27,600 -1,409,120 -230,200 31,945 -264,800 -9,000 -36,000 -35,800 123,280 -722,460 2,163,660 -70,818 4,620 -531,680 -2,120,198 91,257,070 -8,430 -329,460 31,469,425 17,165,090 -217,600 -21,747,663.00 1,673,780 -103,680 6,040 -39,300 -3,614,335 376,367,520 27,830 -12,900 -205,000 -43,092,252 193,880 431,480.00 -4,128,961 -55,470 -570,450 -111,475 -2,456,705 -790 -345,450 -76,070 2,484,155 505,780 310,050 -4,390 319,780 -539,270 920 3,030 2,169,066 47,050 -20,501,305 7,370 16,650 460,000 -

215,960 2,229

-99,480 -

7,350

SMALL, MEDIUM & EMERGING

0.445 0.45 0.445 0.45 170,000 75,750 0.77 0.81 0.76 0.81 462,000 358,360 -93,480 0.91 0.92 0.88 0.92 2,291,000 2,084,660 0.76 0.77 0.73 0.77 252,000 190,640 -15,020 0.065 0.065 0.065 0.065 60,000 3,900 1.17 1.19 1.16 1.18 654,000 767,220 -234,000 0.24 0.24 0.24 0.24 160,000 38,400 -

EXHANGE TRADE FUNDS

98 98.8 98 98.8 12,580 1,240,870 -29,685

BALAI FRUITAS CTS GLOBAL HAUS TALK ITALPINAS LFM PROP MERRYMART XURPAS

FIRST METRO ETF

0.44 0.78 0.88 0.73 0.065 1.17 0.232 98.3

0.45 0.8 0.92 0.77 0.068 1.18 0.24 98.8

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Companies BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

SMC is said to be in talks with banks for $2-B loan T

Ayala pledges funds for Hero Foundation

an Miguel Corp. (SMC), the Philippines’s most indebted company, is in talks with at least 10 banks for a $2-billion loan as it looks to refinance a similar-sized facility maturing in December next year, according to three people familiar with the matter. The food-to-power conglomerate is looking for a 5-year debt and aims to mandate banks and start marketing the deal before year-end, said the people who asked not to be identified as they aren’t authorized to speak publicly. San Miguel officials didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment. The loan discussions come amid the Philippine central bank’s push for the nation’s largest business groups to disclose their foreign-debt levels,

an effort to head off potential economic risks tied to such borrowing. San Mig uel had tota l outstanding debt of 1.4 trillion pesos ($24.7 billion) at the end of June, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The company faces its biggest debt redemptions in 2024, with over $3 billion of the total due next year. The banks in discussions with San Miguel include Australia & New Zealand Banking Group Ltd., Bank

of China Ltd.’s Hong Kong branch, CTBC Bank Co., DBS Bank Ltd., ING Groep, Maybank Kim Eng Securities Pte, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc., Mizuho Bank Ltd., Rabobank Group and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp., the people said. The group earlier this year raised $1.33 billion, 5-year loan at 198.5 basis points over the benchmark Secured Overnight Financing Rate. In a statement it issued last June, San Miguel said its debt level is a result of a strategic decision to undertake a range of projects. The firm’s “financial position remains healthy, allowing us to support our expansion and honor our commitments,” it said. San Miguel said 40 percent to 45 percent of its total debt is in foreign currency. Philippine-listed companies have been increasing their reliance on cheap borrowed capital, S&P Global Ratings said last June. Pressure though will mount on the firms to service or refinance that debt due

to rising global interest rates, and with the peso weakening 4.5 percent against the dollar over the past 12 months. The changing macro environment may be one reason why the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is exercising the amended New Central Bank Act enacted in February 2019, which gives it the right to require local firms to disclose their debt exposure. “We will be writing letters to the important companies and say, can you please fill up this form. Now, will they tell us? I think they will,” former BSP Governor Felipe Medalla said. At present, the central bank’s prior approval is required for private-sector foreign borrowings only if they are government guaranteed. Companies taking out loans without a state guarantee only have to notify the central bank and register if they plan to buy foreign currency from the banking system to service the loan. Bloomberg News

Rolls-Royce set to cut 2,500 jobs worldwide

olls-Royce Holdings Plc plans to eliminate as many as 2,500 positions worldwide and will streamline operations, enacting the deepest job cuts yet under Chief Executive Officer Tufan Erginbilgic. The reductions will target 2,000 to 2,500 employees, or about 6 percent of the global staff, the company said in a regulatory statement, confirming reports of job losses late on Monday. As part of the corporate overhaul, Chief Technology Officer Grazia Vittadini will leave the company in April next year, Rolls-Royce said. She was in the position since November 2021, having joined from Airbus SE. Erginbilgic is driving his turnaround effort deeper into the company after already switching some key management positions, including the head of the civil engine subsidiary. The engineering technology and safety businesses will be unified and run by Simon Burr, a senior manager at the civil aerospace subsidiary who is joining the executive team as part of the shift, the company said. “All this seems pretty obvious, and it is surprising this hadn’t already been done,” Nick Cunningham, an analyst at Agency Partners, said of the announced changes. “The net effect should be to help to prevent costs growing as fast as sales and this should better enable incremental revenues to drop down to profits and cashflow.” Having joined Rolls-Royce from

A Rolls-Royce aircraft jet engine production and repair facility. Bloomberg News

BP Plc, Erginbilgic brought in consultants to advise on streamlining the organization. Rolls makes engines for the largest commercial aircraft and earns money based on their hours of use as well as with lucrative service contracts. Rolls-Royce rose as much as 2.3 percent to 218.4 pence in London trading. The stock is the best performer on the FTSE 100 Index this year. The CEO, who likened the company to a “burning platform” shortly after taking over at the start of the year, has presided over a more than doubling of the stock price, as longdistance travel rebounds from pandemic lows, reigniting demand for large aircraft like the Airbus A350, for which Rolls-Royce is the sole supplier. About half of Rolls-Royce em-

ployees are in the United Kingdom, 11,000 work in Germany and about 5,500 are located in the United States. The last time the company cut a large number of positions was in the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, when aircraft around the globe were largely grounded. The company’s last round of major job cuts took place in March of 2020, when the manufacturer said it would eliminate 3,000 jobs in the UK to adjust to the pandemic-related downturn. Cash flow at Rolls has risen rapidly this year, lightening the burden of interest payments just as rate increases make borrowing more expensive. Accelerating its debt-reduction plans could lead to credit-rating upgrades for Rolls, Bloomberg Intelligence said in a report. Bloomberg News

PHL Seven chief elected chair of US-based group

ose Victor Paterno, the president and CEO of Philippine Seven Corp. (PSC), the license holder for 7-Eleven convenience stores in the country, has been elected as chairman for the 2023-24 term of the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) based in the United States. The said association is the leading global trade group dedicated to advancing convenience and fuel retailing, serving as a trusted advisor to over 1,300 retailers and 1,600 supplier members from more than 50 countries. The election took place at the NACS board of directors meeting held last October 3, during the annual NACS trade show in Atlanta. “I am deeply honored and hum-

bled to take on the role. It is a tremendous privilege to represent not only PSC but also the broader convenience store industry. I take pride in what we’ve been able to accomplish in the Philippines with technology and market share, and am excited to take things to the next level in collaboration with some of the best retail and tech minds I’ve met at NACS and its partners,” Paterno said. NACS, founded in 1961, started in the US, where it represents over 150,000 convenience stores, but later expanded globally, covering 350,000 stores in total. Paterno is only the second non-US retailer to assume the post, and the first from Asia. His advocacy during his term, as outlined in his ac-

ceptance speech, was to build out an industry-wide technology platform that would allow retailers big and small to participate in growing digital ad spend from the manufacturers of fast-moving consumer goods. This is something that is happening in other retail formats, but not in convenience, due to its fragmented industry structure, he said. He cited his experience in the Philippines, which in many respects was ahead of the US as a more consolidated industry structure allowed for more technological innovation. A member-driven organization, NACS is led by a 30-member board, which includes the largest US convenience retailers, including 7-Eleven US. VG Cabuag

he Ayala Group will continue to bankroll Hero Foundation Inc. in its bid to provide educational support to the children of Filipino soldiers who died during conflict. Ayala Corp., Ayala Land Inc., Bank of the Philippine Islands, Globe Telecom Inc. and ACEN Corp. have officially pledged their support to the Hero Foundation, an organization dedicated to offering educational assistance to children who have lost their parents in the military. The said Ayala firms have collectively pledged to contribute P2.5 million per year for the next five years. “It is a huge honor for the Ayala group of companies to continue being the Hero Foundation’s partner... I am confident that together, we can continue to make a profound impact in the lives of many young Filipinos,” Fernando Zobel de Ayala, chairman of Hero Foundation, said. “Our collective aim is to reach a level of self-sufficiency for the Hero Foundation in the coming years, and every step we take today brings us closer to that goal.” Since 1988, the foundation has been supporting the children and siblings of fallen soldiers. Their mission is to ensure that these

young individuals receive the necessary educational opportunities to build a brighter future. Over the past 35 years, the foundation has provided secure and consistent educational support to military orphans. The support aims to establish a sustainable trust fund that will provide for the current and future orphan scholars from the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This trust fund will ensure that these children have access to quality education and necessary resources. The funds will bolster the R.E.A.C.H Program, which goes beyond traditional college scholarships. This program provides additional support to top students by offering opportunities for personal and professional growth. The R.E.A.C.H Program equips scholars with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their chosen fields. Since its inception, the foundation has made a significant impact on the lives of military orphans. To date, the foundation has supported a total of 2,733 scholars, with 1,240 of them successfully graduating from college. These graduates have gone on to pursue various professions, including engineering, nursing, medicine, aviation, law enforcement, and the military. VG Cabuag

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Solon eyes exempting teachers from taxes By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

senior lawmaker has proposed the grant of tax exemptions to public school teachers as a non-wage benefit. In House Bill 9106, Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus B. Rodriguez emphasized the importance of adequately compensating teachers to attract the most qualified individuals to the education sector. Rodriguez also highlighted the challenging teacher-to-student ratios, which underscore the difficulties teachers face in delivering quality education to students. “The latest report also shows that the teacher-to-student/pupil ratio is 1:29 in the elementary level, 1:25 in high school, and 1:29 in senior high school. This highlights the difficulties our teachers face in providing quality education to our students,” he said. Despite the crucial nature of their work, teachers are among the lowestpaid government employees. “It is vital that the government attract the most competent and efficient teachers for the benefit of our students. To do this, the government must provide compensation and benefits, whether monetary or otherwise, commensurate with the work they perform and the contribution they make to society,” he stressed. The bill provides that “all salaries, wages, allowances, and benefits granted to public school teachers, including those in state colleges and universities at all levels, shall be exempted from the withholding taxes as provided for by pertinent laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to withholding taxes.” The measure mandates the commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue to implement the provisions of the proposed law if and when it is enacted. It further provides that “all laws, decrees, executive orders, letters of instruction, letters of implementation, rules and regulations, and other issuances inconsistent with any provision of this Act are hereby repealed, modified, superseded, or amended accordingly.” The proposed law is to take effect 15 days after its publication in any two newspapers of general circulation. The entry-level salary in the public education sector is Salary Grade 11 (P27,000, Step 1). This salary grade pays up to P29,075 (Step 8), depending on the holder’s length of service. Data from the Department of Budget and Management shows there are approximately 880,000 public school teachers in the country. There are several proposals in the House of Representatives to raise the hiring rate in public schools to Salary Grade 15 (P36,619, Step 1), or an increase of P9,619 from SG 11. SG 15 pays up to P39,367 (Step 8). Under the law, in addition to their monthly compensation, all government personnel are entitled to a midyear pay equivalent to a one-month salary and a year end bonus, also equivalent to one month’s salary, plus a P5,000 cash gift.

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@lorenzmarasigan

ESPITE the so-called “crypto winter,” the Philippines remains as the epicenter of adoption of the Web 3.0 technology in the world, according to crypto advocates. To further cement this title and to encourage more developers to build more Web3-based games and solutions, decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) Yield Guild Games is launching a week-long summit in November.

PHL to test pure cashless transaction

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

ILIPINOS wanting to participate in the first “Cashless Expo” next month will get a taste of what it is like to buy and sell items at a trade fair without using any physical currency. As the country’s first cashless trade fair, Trade and Industry Assistant Secretary Mary Jean T. Pacheco said this is the first trade fair of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) that will not allow the use of neither bills nor coins in buying and selling items. Pacheco said this is where the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and its partners will come into play. If merchants and consumers do not yet have a digital wallet, they can create a wallet during the expo to make their transactions. “This is the first time that we will conduct a fair, a consumer fair where it will only be digital payments. This

this is one way by which we will encourage micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to adopt digital payments,” she said during the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the BSP and the DTI last Tuesday. “We always say that the DTI and the BSP, we are the Robin to BSP’s Batman relative to the digital transformation roadmap.” Pacheco added the government wants to capitalize on the findings of a recent Visa Inc. study, which found that 60 percent of Filipinos reduced the cash they carry around in their wallets. The data also showed 84 percent of Filipinos made cashless transactions.

“We want to take advantage of this momentum and we believe that the ‘Cashless Expo’ will be a great venue to provide them with experience and also the confidence in digital transactions,” Pacheco said. “The Expo is not just about selling and buying products, we want the merchants and the consumers to take advantage and to learn more about the use of digital payments,” she added. BSP Deputy Governor Mamerto E. Tangonan said monetary authorities expect that the expo will help achieve the objectives set under the central bank’s Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap (DPTR). The DPTR aims to convert 50 percent of the total volume of retail payments into digital form. The roadmap also aims to expand the financially included to 70 percent of Filipino adults. The financial inclusion efforts, the roadmap said, will be done by onboarding Filipinos to the formal financial system through the use of payment or transaction accounts from banks, non-banks, and e-money issuers.

“We continue to share with [the] DTI our vision to have a digitally empowered Philippine commerce ecosystem. We believe that we can achieve this vision through continuous developments in ecommerce, proactive promotion of consumer welfare, and targeted capacity building especially to the marginalized sectors,” Tangonan said. He explained that based on the data fron BSP’s annual measurement of e-payments adoption, merchant payments continue to comprise almost 58 percent of the total retail payment volume of which 54 percent is digital payments. Tangonan said that given this data, BSP’s support to the “Cashless Expo” is aligned with the central bank’s focus to pursue initiatives that can transform retail payments in the country into digital form. The expo will also provide opportunities to MSMEs to make the important leap to growing their business digitally, the BSP official added. Apart from digital payments and financial inclusion, Tangonan said

the expo will also feature products that are “Proudly Pinoy.” These are steps that will also boost financial inclusion and grow the economy in the process. “I am sure you all heard the saying ‘Malayo Pa, Pero Malayo Na’ [still far but gained distance]. This perfectly describes our journey towards embracing digitalization, transforming into a cash-lite society, and enhancing financial inclusion,” Tangonan said. “The collective efforts of the BSP and the DTI, along with other agencies and stakeholders, will continue to open financial opportunities for more Filipinos, redefine the way we do business, provide avenues to improve the quality of our lives, and ultimately help shape the future of our country,” he added. The “Cashless Expo” is a 3-day trade show that will feature Philippine-made goods and services bought and sold via digital payments-only transactions. The expo will also introduce cutting-edge solutions and innovative approaches to cashless payments, read documents provided by the DTI.

Investors ease up on asking-yields stand BIR to digitally monitor sale in tobacco goods By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

HE national government raised its full programmed amount from the sale of Treasury bonds for the second straight week as investors’ asking yields settled within secondary market benchmark level. The Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) awarded the P30-billion reissued T-bonds with an average yield of 6.675 percent, a little higher than the 6.520-percent benchmark Bloomberg Valuation Service (BVAL) rate for the debt paper. The government security, which has a remaining life of 6 years and 9 months, fetched rates between 6.5 percent and 6.74 percent.

A statement issued by the Treasury after the auction read that the auction attracted P46.1 billion in total tenders, 1.5 times the P30.0 billion offer. “With its decision, the committee raised the full program of P30.0 billion, bringing the total outstanding volume for the series to P64.7 billion,” the statement further reads. The Treasury has been seizing opportunities in making full awards of T-bonds as it struggles to raise the programmed amount for the Treasury bills, the auction of which was marked by investors stubbornly seeking higher asking yields. Tuesday’s tender was the second T-bonds auction for the month of October. For this month, the Treasury plans to raise P90 billion from

the auction of T-bonds. The Treasury is set to hold its last two auctions for the month next week: one for P15-billion T-bills and another for P30-billion T-bonds with a 10-year tenor. For October, the Treasury planned to raise P150 billion from the domestic market through the auction of P60 billion T-bills and P90 billion T-bonds. For the whole year, the national government plans to borrow P2.207 trillion with a 75:25 mix in favor of domestic sources. About P1.653 billion of this year’s programmed borrowings would come from domestic sources, bulk of which being T-bonds at P1.599 billion followed by T-bills at P54.050 billion.

Unionbank’s thrift bank subsidiary enhances disaster-reduction tack By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes @brownindio

HE thrift bank subsidiary of the Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) announced having enhanced its disaster preparedness for community beneficiaries it serves through a disaster risk and reduction (DRR) program. According to City Savings Bank Inc. (CitySavings), it has conducted 106 training sessions nationwide on weather and tropical cyclone since 2015. A statement issued by the lender explains that the program “ensures that beneficiaries of public schools in the Philippines have the proper equipment to help them prepare for possible disasters or calamities in the future.” In the aftermath of disasters and calamities, one of the most vulnerable sectors in the country is the education sector, the lender added. The

thrift bank referred to a Department of Education (DepEd) issuance last year that revealed the agency needs around P18 million to repair, rehabilitate and reconstruct schools damaged during disasters and calamities that hit the country. CitySavings’s statement read that its program aims to strengthen educators’ capability on disaster preparedness through basic weather knowledge, empower them to prepare and protect their communities and create their own disaster preparedness programs to reduce the impact of weatherrelated disasters. The lender said it has donated emergency and medical equipment to 16 School Division Offices (SDOs) through its DRR program. The donations, it added, also addressed the SDOs’ call for help in “alleviating the impact of the global pandemic.” Donating to disaster preparedness means investing in systems that will allow the schools to deploy staff

and resources quickly and effectively once a disaster strikes, the bank explained. It added it sees its DRR program contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11 (“Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable”). The bank said it considers the DRR as an “integral part of social and economic development.” The bank quoted the DepEd as saying that schools usually function as evacuation centers during and after a disaster. However, this changed in 2016 after the enactment of Republic Act 10821 (An Act Mandating the Provision of Emergency Relief and Protection for Children Before, During, and After Disasters and Other Emergency Situations) that year. The law beefs up the mandate of the local government units to provide and/or construct adequate evacuation centers for community members.

Play-to-earn gaming guild sees Web3 growth in PHL By Lorenz S. Marasigan

Editor: Dennis D. Estopace • Wednesday, October 18, 2023

The event will feature over-90 international and local speakers who will share insights about Web3 gaming, esports, content creation and player adoption. “The Philippines has consistently been among the top countries with the highest interest in Web3. Most of this interest is driven by the roster of engaging Web3 games that are currently in the market. The fact that global leaders from the Web3 gaming industry are coming all the way to the Philippines for the Web3 Games Summit shows that the world recognizes

us as one of the leading countries in Web3 adoption and home to a thriving market for new and upcoming Web3 games,” YGG Country Head Menchie Dizon said in a news briefing last Tuesday. Dizon added that the group “strongly believes that games will continue to be the impetus for Web3 adoption.” Web3 gaming boomed during the height of the pandemic when blockchainbased online game Axie Infinity became popular in the Philippines. With its play-to-earn model, Axie Infinity became an instant hit for many

Filipinos until its popularity dwindled due to lower returns on investment. Despite this, Dizon believes that Web3 gaming is still at its “nascency.” Now, games are being developed to become “more sustainable,” requiring players to “skill up before the economic benefits,” she explained. “There are different levels of economic participation. The reason why there is a shift of how development is being done is because it allows for a more sustainable approach and sustain participation,” Dizon added.

HE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) announced the roll out in 2025 of a digital trackand-trace system for tobacco-based products and vape products to boost the government revenues while curbing illicit trade of these goods. In a news briefing last Tuesday, BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. said the bureau is currently working on the purchase of the system that, he said, would allow wider monitoring of the sale of tobaccobased and vapor products. According to Lumagui, the digital system the BIR would procure would replace the current system of putting excise tax stamps on cigarette packs and cases. The goods, he said, would now sport QR codes that can be scanned by the consumer to determine if the product being sold is legitimate or illegal. “What we have now is the stamp on the cigarettes. It is used to determine the validity on whether the excise taxes are paid and it is being monitored using a specific device that only [the] BIR has,” Lumagui said during the briefing. “Now we are shifting and improving the system to a digital track-andtrace solution. It is not just a stamp anymore. It will be digitalized and everyone can monitor the products even just using ordinary cellphones,” added the BIR chief. Lumagui said the digital trackand-trace system would allow the state to monitor the movement of tobacco products in the country, including those manufactured for exports. He pointed out the BIR is aware that some tobacco products tagged

as for export end up being sold in the local market. “It will address issues of certain manufacturers that pretend to be exporters to evade paying taxes; but the products will just be sold in the local market,” Lumagui said. “[Through] the digital track-and-trace system, we will be able to monitor the movement of the shipment, the entire distribution channel.” The BIR official said the system would also address the agency’s lack of manpower and limited devices in monitoring products levied with excise taxes. “We are now formalizing the procedures and soon we will undergo the procurement process. We want to start as early as possible so we are already conducting the study to determine the system that we want to procure,” Lumagui added. The BIR chief also disclosed that the bureau is set to issue a new revenue memorandum circular that would clarify and refine the implementation of penalties for sellers of tobacco-based products who did not pay any excise taxes. Ensuring the strict implementation of penalties at the retail side would deter the purchases of illicit tobacco products, thereby curbing its presence in the market, according to the BIR. Citing a study by the University of Asia and the Pacific, Lumagui noted that the country stands to lose about P30.57 billion in revenues this year from the illicit tobacco trade. The amount is nearly 20-percent higher than the estimated foregone revenues last year of P26.19 billion. Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

BPI eyes raising ₧5B via 1.5-yr peso-bond float

HE Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) aims to raise an additional P5 billion from its 1.5-year peso-denominated bonds. In a disclosure at the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), BPI said this is the second tranche of its P100 billion Bond Program. The bonds will be issued at par value, bearing an interest rate of 6.425 percent per annum and paid quarterly. Bonds require a minimum investment amount of P1 million and in additional increments of P100,000. “BPI will use the net proceeds of the offer for general corporate pur-

poses, and the Offer will contribute to BPI’s funding source diversification,” BPI said. The Offer period started on October 17 and will end on November 3. The Bonds are expected to be issued and listed with the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. on November 13, 2023. BPI Capital Corp. (“BPI Capital”) and ING Bank N.V., Manila Branch are the Joint Lead Arrangers and Selling Agents of the Offer. BPI and the Joint Lead Arrangers reserve the right to update the Offer terms, the periods, and the dates prescribed above, as deemed appropriate and with due notice. Cai U. Ordinario

Wednesday, October 18, 2023 • Editor: Gerard S. Ramos

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Taylor Swi�t’s ‘The Eras Tour’ dances to No. 1 at the box office, eyeing ‘Joker’ film record TAYLOR SWIFT arrives at the world premiere of the concert film Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour on October 11, 2023, at AMC The Grove 14 in Los Angeles. AP

BY LINDSEY BAH� The Associated Press

OVIE theaters turned into concert venues this weekend as Swifties brought their dance moves and friendship bracelets to multiplexes across the country. The unparalleled enthusiasm helped propel Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour to a massive, first place debut between $95 million and $97 million in North America, AMC Theatres said on Sunday. It’s easily the biggest opening for a concert film of all time, and, not accounting for inflation, has made more than the $73 million Justin Bieber: Never Say Never earned in 2011. In today’s dollars, that would be around $102 million. And if it comes in on the higher end of projections when totals are released on Monday, it could be the biggest October opening ever. The one to beat is Joker, which launched to $96.2 million in 2019. A unique experiment in distribution, premium pricing, star power and loose movie theater etiquette—more dancing and shouting than a Star Wars premiere—have made it an undeniable hit. Compiled from Swift’s summer shows at Southern California’s SoFi Stadium, the film opened in 3,855 North American locations starting with “surprise” Thursday evening previews. Those showtimes helped boost its opening day sum to $39 million—the second biggest ever for October, behind Joker’s $39.3 million.

Internationally, it’s estimated to have earned somewhere between $31 to $33 million, bringing its global total in the range of $126 million to $130 million. “This is a phenomenal number,” said Paul Dergarabedian, the senior media analyst for comScore. “To have a blockbuster style opening weekend for a concert film is unprecedented.” Swift, who produced the film, went around the Hollywood studio system to distribute the film, making a deal directly with AMC, the largest exhibition company in the United States. With her 274 million Instagram followers, Swift hardly needed a traditional marketing campaign to get the word out. Beyoncé made a similar deal with the exhibitor for Renaissance: A Film By Beyoncé, which will open on December 1. The two superstars posed together at the premiere of The Eras Tour earlier this week in Los Angeles. It was a needed injection of star power with Hollywood actors over 90 days into a strike that has left most red carpets void of glamourous talent and resulted in several high-profile films being pushed to next year. The film scored well with both critics and audiences, who gave it an “A+” CinemaScore, a metric that typically signals a film will continue to do well after its first weekend. Elizabeth Frank, the executive vice president of worldwide programming and chief content officer for AMC Theatres, said in a statement that they are grateful to Taylor Swift. “Her spectacular performance delighted fans, who dressed up and danced through the film,” Frank said. “With tremendous recommendations and fans buying tickets to see this concert film several times, we anticipate Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour concert film playing to big audiences for weeks to come.” The stadium tour, which continues internationally, famously crashed Ticketmaster’s site and re-sale prices became astronomical. Pollstar projects that it will earn some $1.4 billion. The concert film offered fans both better seats and a much more affordable way to see the show for the first or fifth time. Prices are higher than the

had been present as early as the 1800s. Reyes describes her version of Carmen as “a woman fully aware of her feminine nature. She is not a prostitute but is an ideal type of the genuinely emancipated woman—free, sovereign, and mistress of all her decisions. She would rather die than live with a man she no longer loves and respects.” In typical Romanticist form, the drama and the passion make for a riveting dance creation. Shifting from their comedic turn as the evil duo, Ravana and Soorpanakha, in Alice Reyes, Rama, Hari, this year’s staging of Reyes’ Carmen will have Richardson Yadao as the conflicted Don Jose and Macel Dofitas as the fiery Carmen. Edna Vida, who originated the titular role in Reyes’ Carmen, commented on the pair: “All through the years, I’d been hoping that Alice herself would restage Carmen, but I kept telling her that the lead must be Macel Dofitas. It’s her that I see as Carmen

By Eugenia Last

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Zac Efron, 36; Esperanza Spalding, 39; Freida Pinto, 39; Wynton Marsalis, 62. HAPPY BIRTHDAY: Bide your time, take care of details, and refuse to let emotions or outside interference cloud your vision or disrupt your plans. Embrace domestic changes that help stabilize your financial situation and give you breathing space to enjoy your life and loved ones and to acquire peace of mind. Your security depends on making intelligent decisions, avoiding unnecessary expenses and taking advantage of financial opportunities. Your numbers are 4, 17, 22, 25, 34, 46, 48.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Search for the information you need to validate what you want to pursue. Knowledge is vital when it comes to getting what you want. Don’t forgo what’s necessary; a safety check, verification or promo code will make a difference and save time and money. ★★★★★

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Don’t give up on your dreams prematurely. Look into the cost involved and consider the difference it can make to your life before deciding to move. Having a plan ready to go when opportunity knocks will encourage success. ★★★

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Review every detail before presenting your offer. Someone will look for any reason to redirect or take advantage of you. Attend a seminar, talk to experts and devise a solid plan to avoid unnecessary setbacks. ★★★

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Don’t start something without getting the go-ahead from anyone who may object. Having the proper documents or a blessing from a neighbor, colleague or loved one will determine your success. An incentive or perk will help move your plans forward. ★★★

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Put on blinders and focus on what you are trying to achieve. Don’t let anyone redirect or tempt you to point your attention to something that isn’t directly beneficial. Invest your time and money in yourself, your skills and your long-term plans. ★★★★★

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Look to experts, institutions and self-reliance for answers, and make changes that will help you turn something you enjoy doing or excel at into something lucrative. Someone you encounter will inspire you, but verify the information you receive before you proceed. ★★

national average, at $19.89, which references her birth year and 2014 album, and ran closer to $29 a pop for premium large format screens like IMAX. Even so, they are significantly less than seat at one of the

SEE “BOX OFFICE,” B5

After ‘Rama, Hari’ comes ‘Carmen and Other Spirits’ AFTER the success of Rama, Hari, Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) presents Carmen and Other Spirits. A mixed bill, it features four choreographies that confront current issues in society. Running from October 20 to 21 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, the program is top-billed by Carmen, another masterpiece by National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes. Springing off from Propsper Merimeé’s 1845 novella of the same title, Reyes takes a unique perspective telling the narrative from the point of view of Don Jose: “His story is a grim account of ‘Low’ life, pungent and raw...a tale of a man who has lost everything, his rank, his livelihood and now his life because of an uncontrollable infatuation with a woman,” Reyes said. The woman of Jose’s infatuation was none other than our titular Carmen, a GypsySpanish woman whose persona could be defined as a feminist, a term and issue that

TODAY’S HOROSCOPE

in talent, presence, and physique...and, Richardson Yadao must be her Don Jose, because he can certainly work the muscle of deep pathos. They are a fantastic pair onstage.” The “other spirits” are comprised of three choreographic works by the country’s top Filipino choreographers: Alden Lugnasin echoes synchronized swimming movements in his piece, “Swimming the Ilog Pasig.” It is a provocative social and environmental commentary recalling the relationship between people and the once rippling clear waters of the River Pasig which has now become a dumping site for trash. Lugnasin’s piece utilizes his unique style of movement and storytelling, as he costumes the dancers in the popular 1980s brand of swimwear, Speedo. Ronelson Yadao, artistic director of ARDP, essays the importance of interdependency of two individuals in his

work Two. Lester Reguindin’s Now draws inspiration from young environment activist, Greta Thurnberg, and her bold speech at the UN Climate Action Summit in 2019, where she challenges the powers-that-be to make a change for the sake of her generation. The piece which was originally choreographed for film transitions to a stage adaptation. Carmen and Other Spirits is presented by Alice Reyes Dance Philippines, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program (PASP), with the generous support of Samsung Performing Arts Theater and Birch Tree Adult Boost. It features dance trainees from Guang Ming College, Philippine High School for the Arts, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde, and other independent performers. The show schedule is: October 20, 2023, 7:30 pm, Samsung Performing Arts Theater; October 21, 2023, 4 pm, Samsung Performing Arts Theater.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Monitor situations before engaging in talks that prompt changes you aren’t ready to accept. Take time to digest what’s available and devise a way to get the most out of what you’ve got before you move. ★★★★

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Follow the money, evaluate every expenditure and sell what you no longer need. A tight budget and game plan for prospects will put you in a good position. Discipline and ingenuity combined will create opportunities and a positive lifestyle change. ★★★

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t share personal information. Hide your true feelings from anyone who might take advantage of your vulnerability. Listen carefully to what’s said and act accordingly. A poker face will help you navigate your way past anyone trying to get in your way. ★★★

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Pay attention to contract negotiations and medical issues. Ask questions and look for alternatives that suit your lifestyle. An opportunity to gain financial ground is apparent if you make domestic changes that lower your monthly payments. ★★★

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Concentrate on what’s at stake, and do whatever it takes to live up to your promises. A simple lifestyle will help you save and encourage better stability. Refuse to let anyone convince you to take on debt or make a questionable professional move. ★★★★

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Don’t believe everything you hear or get involved in someone else’s dream. Focus on what brings you the highest return. Put your emotions aside and adopt ideas that are dependent on you and your skills, not paying someone to do things for you. ★★ BIRTHDAY BABY: You are hesitant, systematic and persistent. You are resourceful and dedicated.

‘musical quartet’ BY GREGORY SMITH

The Universal Crossword • Edited by David Steinberg/Anna Gundlach/Jared Goudsmit ACROSS 1 Biscayne or Hudson 4 Apt rhyme of “chop” 7 With 67-Across, very healthy 13 Decorated, as a cake 15 Prefix with “logical” or “tourism” 16 Fester and Scar 17 Like some summer school courses 19 Kind of balloon or therapy 20 Easy to hear 22 Good at home repairs, say 23 Wrath 24 Adjust the fit of 28 Moo ___ gai pan 30 ___ an egg (fail) 32 Big name in kitchen utensils 33 Scott known as the “King of Ragtime” 37 Listing on Indeed 38 Saudi or Syrian 39 Spotless 42 Boxing venue 43 ___ Not Okay With This (coming-ofage series) 44 Initial stages

45 Singer ___ Cassidy 46 Go “Boo-hoo!” 47 Boat with lions and tigers and bears? 48 Language in Cardiff 50 Egyptian cobra 52 Lifeguards guard them 57 Taut 60 Relaxed 63 World of education 64 Leather worker 65 CBD relative 66 Slumps 67 See 7-Across 68 “A centipede!” 69 Medical research agcy. DOWN 1 Tree with flaky bark 2 Fastest Amtrak train 3 Oman neighbor 4 Princess who said, “Into the garbage chute, flyboy” 5 The “O” of AOC 6 The ___ Express (children’s book) 7 A hothead has a short one 8 Like a live ball

9 Immune system defender 10 ___ or Nothing (punny name for a pub) 11 Jiffy 12 Sakurajima output 14 ___ Poets Society 18 Drink such as Tanqueray 21 Opposite of above 25 Rich layer cake 26 Place on a pedestal 27 Wizards’ garments 29 TV studio sign 31 Despise 33 Preppy clothing chain 34 Tapenade ingredient 35 Punishment-related 36 Twitch user’s woe 37 Sticky spread...or a sticky situation 38 Obnoxious person 40 Doctor’s request 41 Item that wets rubber stamps 46 Wood-carving tool 47 Group that includes the Jicarilla tribe 49 Rise to one’s feet 51 Ohio or Oregon

53 Poems of praise 54 Finance pro Suze 55 ___’s Mansion (game in the Mario franchise) 56 Break into pieces 58 Primal Fear star Richard 59 Hacky ___ (game) 60 DOJ org. 61 ___ chi 62 Draw to a close Solution to today’s puzzle:

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Editor: Gerard S. Ramos • Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Being heard in meetings PHOTO BY SMARTWORKS COWORKING ON UNSPLASH

F you were invited by your manager to join a meeting, it means that you are expected to participate. But it is not always easy to engage, especially if it is a big meeting or an online conference. Worse, as soon as you offer any suggestion or recommendation, your ideas get shot down by more prominent voices. When being heard and making a point is a challenge, what can you do? If you doubt yourself when speaking in meetings, you need to realize that you have as much right to be in it as the next person. You need to speak up because people cannot read minds and you just might have the appropriate solution. Any great idea, if not shared, remains just that – an idea. If you are to be heard, you need to start speaking up. If you have a good idea, speak up in the first few minutes of the meeting. The start of the meeting is crucial because you set the tone of the entire discussion. There was one meeting I attended where I thought the question would yield similar answers from others. I volunteered to answer and true enough, everyone thought the same thing, but I was the one who said it aloud first. People thought I had a good grasp of the issues involved and it became easier for me to steer the discussion toward an agreement. To be heard, you also need to be confident in what you are saying. People know when you are only trying to make a good impression. Speak with conviction and commitment because people are drawn to listen to those who know what they are talking about. And the only way to be confident about what you are saying is if you understand the issues being discussed, and to contribute to it by drawing from your own experiences. If you are unfamiliar with the issue, prepare for the meeting by doing your research. You cannot go to a meeting without first understanding what the agenda is and knowing the relevant issues about it. You also need to identify how your expertise can help the team resolve the issue. By knowing how you can help, you are in a better position to clarify the challenges and negotiate how you can participate in the agenda’s resolution. When speaking, keep your ideas direct to the point. This does not only respect other people’s time but also their intelligence. Be very intentional in your communication by sharpening your point of view with examples that attendees can relate to. Avoid flowery words as these may detract from your

meaning and confuse others. The best communicators can clearly make their point in as few words as possible. So, keep your point direct and your language concise and understandable. In terms of tone, make it conversational. If it becomes too formal, your words might fly over people’s heads, and they will start shutting down. Even in formal meetings, your tone should always be friendly and conversational so that those in the meeting can engage with you in discussion to address the meeting’s agenda. To be heard, you need to be engaging and pleasant so that people will listen. If you are unsure of your idea, present it in a question form so that people will be more open to what you are saying. This takes care of those who have bigger voices because instead of directly going against your idea, they will tend to think about what you just said. If they see it as a good idea, they will get behind it and actively support your idea. Saying what you think in a question form will also make people start thinking about your suggestion, and how they can apply it in what is being discussed. Once they see your point of view, they will start building on your idea until it becomes the group’s decision. But they will never forget that you were the one who started the discussion. On the other hand, if you think somebody said something good, get behind them. After someone speaks and you agree, use “yes, and” as your transition to acknowledge what the other person has said and then build it up by adding your comments to further the discussion. Agreeing with someone helps build

camaraderie with others so that when you also have an idea, they will tend to look at it in your favor. You need to build the foundations where trust can flourish and agreeing with other people’s ideas is one way to go. You can also summarize all of the ideas into a concrete action plan. Meetings tend to become a brainstorming session where nothing is resolved. This is an opportunity for you to synthesize the discussion and recommend a way forward. This way, you get the best input from everyone, but you will be the one remembered for pushing the team forward. This especially works when everyone has lost sight of what needs to get resolved. A voice that represents everyone’s idea gets you heard in a meeting. You also need to actively listen to what people are not saying. Learn how to read people through their body language. The way they look at you, the direction they are facing, mannerisms, and a host of other things indicate what people are thinking. You can also use body language to your advantage. One trick is to slightly nod your head when you are speaking to get people to agree with you. Another is to maintain positive eye contact and to be as genuinely friendly as possible. All these contribute to how receptive people are to you. If you have an issue with being heard in meetings, remember that to be heard, you need to actively listen to others in the meeting. While it is good to be confident in what you know, being heard also entails knowing how to listen because you discuss not for discussion’s sake but to come to an agreement. n

Box office... Continued from B4 stadium shows. The Eras Tour accounted for over 70 percent of the total weekend box office grosses. The Exorcist: Believer placed a very distant second in its second weekend with $11 million, followed by the Paw Patrol movie in third with $7 million. Rounding out the top five was Saw X with $5.7 million and The Creator with $4.3 million. Here are the estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at US and Canadian theaters, according to comScore: 1. Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, $95 to $97 million 2. The Exorcist: Believer, $11 million 3. Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie, $7 million 4. Saw X, $5.7 million 5. The Creator, $4.3 million 6. A Haunting in Venice, $2.1 million 7. The Blind, $2 million 8. The Nun II, $1.6 million 9. The Equalizer 3, $960,000 10. Dumb Money, $920,000. n

Sekaya highlights local superfoods; supports Filipino farmers Sekaya’s long-standing partnership with the Moringaling Philippines Foundation Inc. (MPFI) has not only produced a high quality moringa supplement, but also contributed significantly to the development of a globally competitive Philippine moringa industry. Malunggay, familiar and beloved by Filipinos, is many things: a galactagogue to help boost milk production for breastfeeding moms; a nutrient powerhouse with vitamins C and A, calcium and potassium; and a rich source of disease-preventing antioxidants, amino acids, and anti-inflammatory agents. The Filipino plant-based brand under Synnovate (the natural products division of Unilab) produces an EU-certified organic moringa supplement, keeping its sourcing 100 percent local through farms under the MPFI network which pushes the research, development and standardization of moringa grown in the country. Sekaya Organic Moringa’s impact covers consumers who reap the benefits of this local superfood, and farming communities that benefit from the support and promotion that showcases local farmers’ capability in organic moringa farming. “We are extremely proud to partner with Sekaya [www.sekaya.com.ph] in providing the local market with a high quality moringa supplement that is safe for anyone who takes it,” says Bernadette “Bernie” Estrella Arellano, founder and chairman of Moringaling Philippines Foundation, Inc. ‘’Through this partnership, we are also showcasing the capabilities of our very own Filipino organic malunggay farmers who meet the stringent standards of international bodies like the European Union.’’ Aside from big retailers like Mercury Drug and Watsons, and e-commerce sites Lazada and Shopee, Sekaya proactively works on getting its moringa supplement into more distribution channels, particularly provincial ones like Carlos Superdrug in Lucena City, Quezon, and Jhunbelle Drugstore in Coron, Palawan. Recently, Sekaya and RiteMed Philippines inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with

Grandest wedding destination ashore bagged two awards

RiteMed Philippines president Jose Maria Ochave and Plantsville founder November Canieso-Yeo sign a MOU to work together to save Philippine cinnamon.

social enterprise Plantsville Health to save 16 native cinnamon species, encourage farming of the local spice, and develop natural health products to boost the industry. Cinnamon is one of the most important spices used all over the world, and at one point in Europe considered at par with how oil is valued globally today. Studies have shown that cinnamon may help control blood sugar by making insulin efficient, moving glucose to cells. It is also known to have other medicinal benefits for its antioxidant, antiinflammatory and anti-microbial properties. According to Plantsville Health founder November Canieso-Yeo, she discovered that the country not only has its own local cinnamon species but these are also in the threatened species list of the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN). “It’s a shame because our country imports more than 95 percent of its current cinnamon consumption. How meaningful it would be if we could help grow back the Philippine cinnamon, while earning for the farmers and its suppliers,” she says.

That’s the aim of Canieso-Yeo’s social enterprise – save the Philippine cinnamon and other aromatic indigenous species by planting them in partnership with small landholder farmers, buy their produce, and develop these into healthful products for consumers. And with collaborations and support from brands like Sekaya and RiteMed, she sees more concrete ways forward. “To be able to direct the supply of cinnamon for natural health products to local sources would be a big win for the industry,” Kamille Iris Abapo, marketing manager of Synnovate, points out. “As a brand, Sekaya continues to work hard to support local farmers and suppliers while developing high quality natural health products that help set standards for the industry and benefit consumers, community and country.” With partnerships that benefit Filipino consumers and emerging Filipino enterprises whose businesses support local resources, Sekaya continues to champion the power and health benefits of native superfoods to help optimize our own natural resources for both local and global markets.

IN a dazzling display of creativity, elegance and business acumen, Discovery Samal, the newest five-star luxury resort, emerged as the undisputed star of the recent Davao Wedding Fair. The resort not only secured the coveted 2nd Top Grosser award but also clinched the prestigious Most Creative Booth’ award, solidifying its reputation as the newest luxury destination in the wedding and event industry. The event, held at Ayala Malls Abreeza, drew attention from engaged couples, families, and industry professionals alike. Discovery Samal’s booth stood out as a visual masterpiece, showcasing Greecian concepts with a bright local touch. The booth’s fresh flower-filled and intricate decorations, coupled with its inviting ambiance, captured the essence of weddings in an awe-inspiring manner and drew the attentioGraced by esteemed guests, including prominent figures in the wedding and events organizing industry, Discovery Samal’s recognition as one of the best despite being new in the local industry marks the beginning of modern bride’s dreams coming to fruition. “The Discovery Samal booth was a snippet of what a dream wedding could be,” commented one fairgoer. “It was like stepping into an opulent wedding scene by the beach. Every corner exuded elegance and creativity, taking us to what a wedding scene would be at the luxurious resort.” The success of Discovery Samal went beyond aesthetics; it was a display of their capacity to bring their client’s ideal wedding to life. The resort’s stunning scenery and gorgeous vistas, as well as its award-winning cuisine and luxurious accommodations for newlyweds, undoubtedly appealed to attendees looking for a smooth and unique experience on their special day. For reservations and inquiries, more information is available at www.discoverysamal.com.

B6 Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Hotel101 Global opens corporate office, sales hub in Singapore

OUBLEDRAGON Corporation’s subsidiary Hotel101 Global Pte. Ltd. officially opens and formally started the operations of both its Global Corporate Office and Global Sales Hub in Singapore last October 10, 2023. DoubleDragon has purchased a prime office space located at the 4th floor of PLUS Building, 20 Cecil Street at the heart of Raffles Place in Singapore for Hotel101 Global Pte Ltd’s Global Corporate Office. The Global Sales Hub is also located in the same building at the Ground Floor of PLUS Building. The Hotel101 Global Sales Hub in Singapore has the newest version of Hotel101’s signature 21 square meter HappyRoom equipped with its worldwide standard features such as the Queen bed and Single bed using Emma Sleep mattresses, IOT (Internet Of Things) App operable smart lighting using one single type of bulb, 55 inch smart TV, work desk, universal power outlets, electronic device charger ports, kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave, and an ensuite modern pre-fabricated bathroom. The new Hotel101 Global look has been designed for construction and operational efficiency, optimizing the use of modular furniture and fixtures as well as the use of prefabricated bathrooms. Hotel101 is expected to become known as one of the most technologically advanced hotel chains across all parts of its value chain. The next version of the Hotel101 App is set to integrate the fully automated self-check-in system with IOT capability. For its signature look, Hotel101 has chosen the “banig,” the traditional handwoven mat of the Philippines. Banigs are where Filipino families would gather, form lasting bonds and shape memories. The banig symbolizes home, and that’s how we want you to feel when you are staying at Hotel101. The Hotel101 banig colors were carefully chosen to radiate happiness and intended to evoke a Filipino touch in all Hotel101 projects across different countries worldwide. The Hotel101 signature modern banig was designed by AI (Artificial Intelligence) to symbolize that Hotel101 will always stay ahead of the curve in technological advances.

“If there is one hotel chain that can optimize the use of modern technology in the global hospitality space, we believe it will be Hotel101, given its pioneering standardized signature 21sqm HappyRooms and asset-light concept globally,” said DoubleDragon Chairman Edgar Injap Sia II. “Eventually, when you stay in any Hotel101, no matter what country you are in, for the first time you will know exactly what to expect,” added Sia. “The Hotel101 Global Corporate Office functions as the hub for our team members

that are based in different countries as we form the right mix of experienced team members that will efficiently lead the expansion of the Hotel101 Unique and Asset-Light business model simultaneously in various countries,” said Hotel101 Global CEO Hannah Yulo-Luccini. “We invite everyone to drop by the Hotel101 Sales Hub at the Ground Floor of PLUS Building in Singapore and grab some complimentary Filipino Blend Coffee, just download the free Hotel101 Global Booking App for entry and that’s it,” added Yulo-Luccini .

GCash, PasaJob launch new job matching platform GJobs

UNWND Hotels, where every corner is a snapshot of artful living

NWND Boutique Hotels, known for its immersive and artistic experiences, invites guests to create your next profile pictuers at its stunning locations. With every corner curated to embody artful living, UNWND Boutique Hotels offer guests a visually captivating and Instagram-worthy stay, allowing them to capture memorable moments and create stunning profiles that reflect their unique style and taste. At UNWND Boutique Hotels, art and design take center stage. Each of the boutique hotel’s interior is thoughtfully designed to create visually stunning spaces that serve as the perfect backdrop

UNWND Boutique Hotel Makati

BANKING ON TRENDS Banking professionals were enlightened on the major developments now happening in their industry in the recently held Temenos Cloud Forum 2023. The participants learned about the changing landscape and the challenges in the banking sector in various discussions focusing on Cloud Banking. Temenos is the world’s leading open platform for composable banking, serving 3,000 banks from the largest to challengers and community banks in 150 plus countries by helping them build new banking services and state-of-the-art customer experiences. The company’s software-as-a-service (SaaS) offering, Temenos Banking Cloud, is used by over 700 clients across more than 30 jurisdictions. Photo shows (from left) Temenos SaaS Principal Consultant for Asia Pacific Zannettos Zannettou, Temenos Collections Product Manager for Asia Pacific Adam Suhartanto, Temenos Business Solution Lead for ASEAN Rishi Sarin, Temenos Principal Solution Consultant for Digital Banking Solutions for Asia-Pacific Bala Carcharla, Microsoft Philippines Client Technology Lead Mik Carpio, RedHat Application Platform Specialist Jerome S. Gotanco, and Temenos Country Director for the Philippines Pallav Malik.

for guests’ profile pictures. From specially commissioned artwork to meticulously curated furniture and decor, UNWND Boutique Hotels provide an immersive and art-filled environment that inspires and delights guests at every turn. With a myriad of visually striking locations, UNWND Boutique Hotels offer endless unique opportunities for guests to capture their most memorable moments. From vibrant murals to chic, stylish lounges, each corner of the hotels is meticulously designed with creativity and intention, providing guests with one-ofa-kind settings for their profile pictures. Whether it’s a glamorous selfie in front of

an art installation or a candid shot in a beautifully appointed room, UNWND Boutique Hotels ensure that every photo captures the essence of living the art of being chill. UNWND Boutique Hotels pride themselves on their unique and distinct design concepts that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. From minimalistic and sleek interiors to opulent and ornate decor, each location offers an aesthetic unique to the destination, ensuring that guests can find a setting that best aligns with their personal style. In addition to the visually captivating environments, UNWND Boutique Hotels also provide exceptional service that ensures guests’ stays are memorable and personalized. The passionate and attentive staff are dedicated to creating an unparalleled guest experience, offering guidance on the best photo spots, arranging professional photoshoots, and providing local insights to help guests capture the essence of their destination and create truly remarkable profile pictures. UNWND Boutique Hotels is a collection of unique and immersive boutique accommodation that redefine contemporary hospitality. With locations in Poblacion, Makati City; Calatagan, Batangas; Dumaguete City; and soon in Camiguin Island, UNWND Boutique Hotels pride themselves on being part of Araw Hospitality Group. Book your next chill stay at UNWNDStays.com or find us on Instagram: @unwndmakati, @unwndcalatagan, and @ unwnddumaguete.

CASH is partnering with PasaJob to introduce a brand new job matching platform housed within the GCash superapp called GJobs. The feature was formally made available to the public last September 25, 2023 and was developed by the two partners. GJobs powered by PasaJob is a unique job matching platform supercharged with a patented longchain referral system which simplifies and accelerates the hiring process. This solution aims to solve the problem faced by both employers and job seekers. A 2017 study by Glassdoor showed that a top barrier for many companies when it comes to recruiting people is the quality of candidates, while many job seekers find it difficult to find jobs that fit their training, skills, and knowledge. With GJobs and its network of referrers, information can flow through social networks. Each job posting on the GJobs platform comes with a referral fee that is visible to every person using the platform. As such, people are incentivized to reach out to family, friends, or colleagues to share the job opportunity. Once the person is hired, the referrer or referrers get the referral fee. “The launch of GJobs is an extension of our ‘Finance for All’ vision. Not only are we helping Filipinos find their dream jobs, we are also helping people earn by referring their friends or family to these job vacancies. GJobs not only helps job seekers and employers connect, we are making the entire hiring process rewarding even for the referrers,” said GCash Chief People Officer, Robert Gonzales. This partnership between GCash, the country’s leading name in fintech, and PasaJob, the first long-chain referral-based job platform in the Philippines, is especially significant as they are bringing together their expertise to directly benefit GCash’s millions of customer base. “We are proud to work with GCash to make GJobs powered by PasaJob available on their

superapp,” PasaJob Co-Founder and CEO, Kristen Mariano said. “With GJobs now, quite literally in the palm of millions of Filipinos, we know that we can connect job seekers to their dream jobs, build bridges for employers and the best talent in their respective industries, and reward referrers who help employers find the right candidates for them.” This process of using referrers to find the best candidates has been shown to be effective in various studies conducted overseas. Reports point that 88 percent of employers say that their most preferred recruitment is through the process of referral1. Referred employees are also proven to stay longer with the companies that hire them. In fact, they are shown to stay 70 percent longer than other employees2. Referrals also dramatically shorten the hiring period. Zippia reports that the average hiring. process can take up to 42 days, but it can be reduced by up to 29 days3. “Referring friends or family to a job is a very Filipino trait. It’s something inherent to us. So, what we’re doing with GJobs is taking this insight and creating an intuitive job board that is propelled by referrals. We know that this solution will redefine job hunting and job posting, so we hope that people sign up for this service within the GCash superapp,” Robert Gonzales said. To sign up for a GJobs account, you may download the GCash app from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. For more information, please visit https:// pasajob.com/gjobs.

Grill Expert Mang Inasal celebrates nationwide Ihaw Fest this October with Ihaw-Sarap deals, freebies

ANG Inasal, the Philippines’ Grill Expert, is treating all its customers this October with delicious freebies through the nationwide Ihaw Fest.

“As we continue our year-long celebration of our 20th anniversary, Mang Inasal is not only offering the best Ihaw-Sarap deals but also giving our customers free Extra Creamy Halo-Halo for the first two weeks and free Palabok on the second half of our Ihaw Fest,” said Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro. From October 1 to 15, every purchase of two Chicken Inasal Value Meals (Paa or Pecho) entitles Mang Inasal customers to one free Halo-Halo small (either Extra Creamy Halo-Halo or Crema de Leche Halo-Halo). While from October 16 to 31, every order of Family Fiesta bundles – a bilao of Chicken Inasal and/or Pork BBQ with Java Rice platter and drinks good for up to six people – affords customers the chance to enjoy two free Palabok solos. All offers are available for dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Want Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www. manginasal.com for the latest updates and https:// manginasaldeliver y.com. ph for delivery deals.

BusinessMirror

Editor: Tet Andolong

Wednesday, October 18, 2023 B7

Public-private partnership to boost development of green buildings By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

First of two parts

anglao, Bohol—Public-private partnership would push the growth of green buildings in the Philippines. In his opening address, Christopher de la Cruz, CEO of the Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC) said the collaboration between the two sectors is a sign that the stakeholders are quite aware of the importance of sustainable development in our lives. “We are thrilled to witness the overwhelming support and engagement from both the public and private sectors at the Building Green 2023 Conference. It is a testament to the growing commitment towards sustainable and resilient development in the Philippines,” said dela Cruz. “Together, we can create innovative solutions and forge strong partnerships that will lead us towards a net-zero future through green building technologies,” dela Cruz added.

Green building champs in the Visayas Bohol Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite and Mandaue Mayor Jonas Cortes of Mandaue City are strong advocates of sustainability and green buildings the Visayas. In his address on the first session of the recently concluded Building Green 2023 Conference held in Modala Resort in Panglao, Balite emphasized Panglao’s commitment to strike a balance between development and the environment, opportunity and sustainability.

Philippine Green Building Council CEO Christopher dela Cruz

Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes exchanges pleasantries with participants after receiving the award for the city’s green building initiatives.

One of the innovative programs implemented in Pangl ao is t he Cent ra l i z ed Se w a ge Treat ment and Septage Management System. Through the Public-Private Cooperation and Initiative Agreement, Panglao was able to establish a centralized system for efficient wastewater management. While finalizing negotiations with the service provider through a public-private partnership (PPP), Panglao’s local government requires hotels, resorts, and other establishments to have their own wastewater treatment facilities. Furthermore, establishments are required to train pollution control officers to effectively manage these facilities. “In line with coastal development, Panglao strictly adheres to the mandates under the Water Code of the Philippines. All construction projects along the coastline must observe a 20-meter setback from the highest sea tide,” Balite said. Furthermore, the Comprehensive Land Use Plan of the municipality adds another 10 meters to provide

ample pathways and convenience for beachgoers and strollers. To maintain clear and accessible public spaces, the municipality passed an ordinance in 2019 to clear sidewalks, streets, parks, and other public areas of all illegal structures and obstructions. Panglao also implemented an ordinance in 2013, prohibiting the use and sale of plastic bags and containers as packaging materials. The municipality emphasizes the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle, and recovery in managing materials through regulations on businesses dealing with scrap iron, junk materials, and second-hand items. Hormachuelos stressed that Panglao’s commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in the 2016 Municipal Environment Code, which establishes regulations and policies for protecting the environment. Furthermore, the municipality is currently conducting public hearings for the crafting of the Bohol Panglao International Airport Safety Ordinance.

Mandaue City keeps on greening Mayor Jonas C. Cortes of Mandaue City has been instrumental in advancing the green building movement in the city. Cortes, the chief executive of the city since 2007, with a short stint as its Congressman from 2016 to 2019, always looked for ways to balance progress with sustainability. In 2013, he led the efforts to integrate sustainable practices in Mandaue City’s built environment. Today, through his dedicated commitment and leadership, he continues to inspire the younger generation to champion the cause of building green. During his speech at the Building Green 2023 Conference, Cortes highlighted the urgent need to address the challenges of the climate crisis and find sustainable solutions. “As a densely populated, highly urbanized industrial city, Mandaue City was experiencing the effects of the urban heat island phenomenon due to its concrete jungle. This realization ignited the Mandaue movement towards building green.

Bohol Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite receives the award from the PHILGBC for Panglao’s accomplishments in promoting development of green buildings.

Over the past decade, Mandaue City has created its own Green Building Ordinance, fully adopting the Philippine Green Building Council’s (PHILGBC) BERDE rating system. To further support sustainability in the city, the Mandaue Green Building Board has been established, aiming to innovate, engage stakeholders, and create policies for building green. The Office of the Building Official also transformed into the Green Building Office as part of their commitment to the cause. To encourage developers to join the advocacy, Mandaue City offers incentives for BERDE-certified buildings beyond what is mandatory, such as additional floor area or tax rebates. through amendments to the green building ordinance, which were passed earlier this year. The city also incorporated its Green Building Ordinance into the City’s Landmark Environmental Code. Several buildings in Mandaue City, including those in Mandani Bay has achieved BERDE certification, some even receiving a 5-star rating. The

city walks the talk as its upcoming landmark government projects, the socialized low-rise housing project for 500 fire victims and the new government center, are targeted to be certified as BERDE buildings. To ensure the knowledge and competency of personnel, Mandaue has trained and certified several employees as BERDE Professionals, with the support of PHILGBC. Currently, the city boasts 34 Certified Green Building Professionals and 6 consultants who are also CBPs. In fact, most members of the Green Building Board are Certified BERDE Professionals. “We are thrilled to witness the overwhelming support and engagement from both the public and private sectors at the Building Green 2023 Conference. It is a testament to the growing commitment towards sustainable and resilient development in the Philippines. Together, we can create innovative solutions and forge strong partnerships that will lead us towards a netzero future through green building technologies,” dela Cruz pointed out.

Sports

Olympians rally behind Obiena

ILIPINO Olympians threw their support behind world No. 2 pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena who was bashed online by the wife of a former top athlete from France. “Don’t bother with the unimportant noise being thrown at him,” Philippine Olympian Association (POA) president and former swimmer champion Akiko Thomson told BusinessMirror Tuesday. “Stay focused on your goal, that’s what’s important,” said Thompson, also a former commissioner at the Philippine Sports Commission. “Hard as it is, we have to learn how to block out what we know is false and untrue and keep moving forward toward your goal.” “Be like a duck and shrug off the water,” she added. Anais Lavillenie, wife of London 2012 Olympics pole vault gold medalist Renaud Lavillenie of France, accused Obiena of taking performance enhancing drugs on the Facebook page Vaulter Magazine-Vaulter Club Inc. which has a follower of 93,000. The post was deleted Monday after the BusinessMirror came out with an article on the issue. A three-time (1988, 1992 and 1996) Olympian, Thomson advised Obiena to shrug off the “nonsense slandering.” Roel Velasco, boxing bronze medalist at the 1992 Barcelona Games, also advised Obiena that “bashing is subjective and cannot be avoided even before during their time.” “It’s not new and even during our time, there were envious and jealous people in your surroundings,” Velasco said. “But you must keep your focus, don’t be distracted and work very hard to reach your goals.” Senate Sports Committee chairman Christopher “Bong” Go blasted the false accusation saying he will always protect the integrity of Filipino athletes. “We take very seriously the allegation made by Anais Lavillenie against EJ Obiena purporting that Obiena used performance enhancing substances,” Go said. “It’s a serious allegation against our national sports hero. We should not tolerate such baseless accusations.” Josef Ramos

Crossovers rally past Foxies, earn share of PVL lead

HERY TIGGO flashed veteran form to frustrate Farm Fresh, 25-21, 25-23, 25-22, for a share of the early lead in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum Tuesday. The Crossovers used their smarts to fluster the Foxies in the stretch run of all three sets, turning a 15-20 deficit in the opening frame into a resounding four-point victory behind a crippling closing 10-1 run. They broke away from a tight second set and warded off the Foxies’ fightback at 23-24 to pound the two-point win then rose from a 10-18 hole in the third on a swirling 8-0 roll before outlasting their rivals in the clutch to complete the straight-set win. While Chery Tiggo’s did look forward to hurdling their initial match in the season-ending conference of the league organized by Sports Vision, the Crossovers hardly expected to go through a wringer in the one-hour and 31-minute

B8 | W

BusinessMirror

ednesday, October 18, 2023 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

PHILIPPINE Basketball Association commissioner Willie Marcial (seated, center) makes the thumbs up sign with (from left, seated) Raymond Zorilla (Phoenix), league chairman Ricky Vargas (TNT) and vice chairman Bobby Rosales (Terrafirma) and Alfrancis Chua (Ginebra) and (standing, from left) Rene Pardo (Magnolia), William Pamintuan (Meralco), Momerto Mondragon (Rain or Shine), Robert Non (San Miguel Beer), Eric Arejola (Northport), Siliman Sy (Blackwater) and Guido Zaballero (TV5). NONIE REYES

Waiting game on Brownlee I

By Josef Ramos

T’S wait and see for both Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) on the Justin Brownlee doping issue. “We’re just waiting for the official communication on the sanction or to what they are going to say,” said Alfrancis Chua, Ginebra’s representative to the PBA board and also San Miguel Corp.’s head of sports. Brownlee is Ginebra’s import for the

Commissioner’s Cup for the incoming 48th season which the PBA launched on Tuesday at the Diamond Hotel. There will only be two conferences for the league in the coming season—the Commissioner’s Cup opening on November 5 and the All-Filipino, which the tournament where teams could field imports with a height limit of 6-foot-9. But the conversation

revolved more on Brownlee, who’s currently on vacation with his family in the US but is expected to be on the bench when Ginebra debuts against Converge on November 17. “He’ll be with us whether he can play or not,” Chua said. “But just in case his suspension stays, we’ll be looking for a replacement.” Ginebra won last season’s Commissioner’s Cup in a classic duel with the Hongkong Bay Area Dragons that wrapped up with a massive crowd showing up for Game 7 at the Philippine Arena. Brownlee has yet to officially announce if he’ll have his B sample tested in defense of the A sample

taken after Gilas Pilipinas’s gold medal-winning game against Jordan last October 6 in Hangzhou. “But for me, I won’t have the B sample tested anymore because it’s from the same urine,” Chua said. Samples were taken from Gilas and Jordan players after the game, a standard procedure by the International Testing Agency and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Mountain bike athlete Ariana Evangelista also yielded a positive result from her A sample after a random testing before her cycling event also at the 19th Asian Games, while a Jordan basketball player also failed the test. The prohibited substance from Brownlee’s urine was a derivative of cannabis, which is banned but not classified as performance enhancing. Chua said San Miguel Corp. big boss Ramon S. Ang (RSA) is always

behind Brownlee. “Knowing RSA, he will not stop helping Brownlee especially in this kind of situation,” he said. PBA chairman Ricky Vargas, meanwhile, said they would only respond once they received an official communication from the Hangzhou Asian Games Organizing Committee which they expect this Thursday. PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, on the other hand, said the league’s anti-drug program with the Department of the Interior and Local Government remains active. But the program covers cannabis, cocaine, lysergic acid diethylamide, opium and methamphetamine, among others, and not those on WADA’s list. Magnolia and TNT Tropang Giga kick off the Commissioner’s Cup in a 4 p.m. game right after the opening ceremony and Leo Prieto Awards at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Chan named secretary-general as POC raises issue on simul PNG, Batang Pinoy

TOLENTINO

EJIYA LAURE tries to score for the Crossovers against the Foxies’ Cloanne Mondonedo (8) and Kim Estenzo (4). encounter while ranged against a team that didn’t score a win in five games in its PVL Invitational debut. “Our first two sets were okay but I think we had a slow start in the third. But because of their [Crossovers] determination, we managed to get through,” said Chery Tiggo coach Aaron Velez, whose wards tied opening-day winners Creamline, Cignal and Nxled in the early lead of the single round robin eliminations among a record 12-team field. Cess Robles came off the bench to fire 10 points, all but two she delivered in the Crossovers’ blistering run to tie the count at 18 in the third. Although she made an attack error in the next play that enabled the Foxies to regain the lead, Robles came through with another hit to force another deadlock then the Crossovers went to sisters Eya and EJ Laure, Pauline Gaston and middle Imee Hernandez to overcome a 19-20 deficit on a decisive 6-1 finish. “I just grabbed the opportunity

Meralco golfest

Meralco EVP and COO Ronnie Aperocho (second from left) poses with friends (from left) Engineer Roy Bayani Lachica, South Cotabato Rep. Peter Miguel and Jun Torres during the 10th Meralco Golf Cup held Monday at the Sta. Elena Golf Club in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

given to me and banked on the trusts of my coaches and to myself,” Robles said. Eya Laure topscored for Chery Tiggo with 14 points, EJ came up with 13 points and Hernandez finished with eight points while Gaston and Shaya Adorador chipped in four points apiece and setter Jasmine Nabor added three points for the Crossovers. “We had a slow start but our character was tsted,” said EJ Laure, whose off-the-block hit wrapped up their scrambling win. Chery Tiggo, which placed fifth here in the first conference, played without injured top gun Mylene Paat. But the Foxies came into the match brimming with confidence, seizing control late in the first set before the Crossovers scored seven straight points

ICKBOXING’S Atty. Wharton Chan sits as the new secretary-general of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), an appointment that comes less than a year before the Paris Olympics and amid a tension between the organization and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). “Atty. Wharton has shown dedication and energy and his familiarity with the operations of the POC in relation to the International Olympic Committee and the national sports associations [NSAs] fits him to a ‘T,’” said POC president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino on Tuesday. Chan is the secretary-general of the Samahang Kickboxing ng Pilipinas and is the POC’s head of legal. He replaced Atty. Edwin Gastanes, whose resignation as secretary-general of the Philippine Football Federation automatically disqualified him from continuing his

Cricket’s return draws enthusiastic response

UMBAI, India—Cricket’s return to the Olympic program for the 2028 Los Angeles Games drew an enthusiastic response from around the world. Cricket, a bat-and-ball game that is hugely popular in south Asia, was one of five sports added to the LA Games by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Monday. Flag football, baseball-softball, lacrosse and squash were also included. “After a wait of more than a century, our beloved sport is back on the Olympic stage,” former India captain Sachin Tendulkar wrote on

Gilas hero on ‘trial’ I WAS not totally surprised that Justin Brownlee tested positive for a banned substance. With the massive dose of medicines he had been taking in the run-up to the Asian Games, chances were almost bright he’d stumble into a prohibited component (cannabis aka marijuana). Among his health issues was a bone spur surgery that sidelined him for quite some time. While recovering, he took various medicines to nurse him back to his fighting form. It paid off—handsomely. Brownlee, now holding dual citizenships as an American and a naturalized Filipino, anchored Gilas Pilipinas’s amazing victories over Iran and China. They were short of being miraculous.

to fuel their fiery comeback. Held to a see-saw battle in the second, the Foxies again lost their poise and steam in the stretch before crumbling in a third set meltdown. Still, the Foxies hoped to have learned their lessons from the sorry setback with Trisha Tubu, Jade Gentapa, Kate Santiago, Sam Nolasco and Rizza Cruz, among others, expecting to get better and stronger when they set out against the Choco Mucho Flying Titans tomorrow. Tubu unleashed a 15-point game while fellow lefty Santiago finished with nine markers and Gentapa produced a 10-hit game. Cruz and Nolasco combined for 15 points with the Foxies also flashing their superb defense upfront by coming through with seven blocks, five more than the Crossovers.

CHAN

Against Iran in the quarters, we appeared set for a strollin-the-park win as we led by 20 points. But by some dint of voodoo-woodoo, Iran mightily rallied. It was a wonder of wonders that we pulled it off by snatching an 84-83 win. Against China in the semifinals, we appeared doom

CRICKET, a bat-and-ball game that is hugely popular in south Asia, is one of five sports added to the LA Games by the International Olympic Committee. AP after we trailed by 20 points. A hostile crowd made it worse, booing us almost each time we had ball possession. But by some dint of luck, we stole a spine-tingling 77-76 win from the so-called jaws of defeat. The biggest hero in that looming China catastrophe? None other than Brownlee, whose back-to-back threes erased a 76-71 deficit in the dying seconds of the game for the titanic win that deposed defending champion China. The Chinese crowd never forgave Gilas—and Brownlee for that matter—as they came back to cheer for Jordan in the battle for gold between Gilas and Jordan. And Gilas had an embarrassment to endure during its return bout with Jordan. Just days ago, Jordan routed Gilas by 25 points, 87-62, in a Group stage result that seemed to have dashed all hopes of recovery for our embattled crew. But as fate would have it, Gilas got the one miracle that

duty at the POC. Chan’s appointment will be officially presented to the NSAs during the POC General Assembly next Friday (October 27) at the East Ocean Restaurant in Parañaque City. The POC is at odds with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) on an unliquidated financial assistance worth P10 million that was given to the POC as financial assistance 25 years ago in the country’s campaign in the 10th Asian Games in Bangkok. The POC, meanwhile, will discuss at the sidelines of the General Assembly the conduct of the Batang Pinoy (BP) and Philippine National Games (PNG), which the PSC simultaneously scheduled from December 17 to 23 in Metro Manila venues, Tagaytay City and Batangas. The PNG and BP are the PSC’s flagship events with the PNG hailed as the combined national championships or opens for all NSAs while the BP is the certified national juniors program. The POC believes holding both programs simultaneously raises questions on the overall integrity of the conduct of the programs with NSAs pressed to manage and supervise numerous competitions in several age brackets in each of the six days of the PNG and BP. X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. “This marks the dawn of a new era for cricket as it will be a golden opportunity to foster inclusivity and showcase new talent from emerging cricketing nations. A start of something truly special!” Monday’s decision was made at an IOC meeting in Mumbai, the Indian city that will host five matches at the ongoing Cricket World Cup. “Our beautiful game of cricket has a rich heritage and diverse international following,” said Pakistan captain Babar Azam, the world’s top-ranked one-day international batsman. “It has the potential to enhance the spirit of Olympics even further. Cricket in the Olympics will inspire new generation, athletes and fans around the globe.”AP

nearly overshadowed the parting of the Red Sea: a 70-60 victory over Jordan behind Brownlee yet again, and a clutch of late-blooming heroes like Ange Kouame, Chris Newsome, Scottie Thompson, Kevin Alas and CJ Perez to name but a few. There is no word yet from Brownlee on his doping dirge. It is not a conclusive result pending the outcome of a re-test. The worst case could be a suspension of two years if Brownlee fails a second test. Prayers for him. Meanwhile, word has it that the basketball gold stays with us. Rules say only when two players or more from a winning squad in a team sport are drug positive can the medal be possibly stripped. We are the champions, yes. Good job, Justin. THAT’S IT Did China have a hand in the drug test of Justin Brownlee? In fairness, none. At least that’s on record. Isport lang.