BusinessMirror October 25, 2023 by BusinessMirror

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BSP: OFF-CYCLE RATE HIKE IS ON THE TABLE www.businessmirror.com.ph

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 Vol. 19 No. 14

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SEA DISPUTES In an emergency meeting at Malacañang in Manila on October 23, 2023, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., along with

the defense secretary and top military officials, discussed the recent hostilities in the disputed South China Sea. Following the alarming escalation of territorial disputes in the South China Sea, the United States reiterated its commitment to defend the Philippines in case of an armed attack, invoking a 1951 treaty. This warning came after Chinese ships blocked and collided with two Filipino vessels. During a press conference in Quezon City on the same day, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela presented a video depicting an incident involving a Chinese coast guard ship with bow number 5203 and a Philippine military-run supply boat. The video and information shared heightened concerns about the potential for armed conflict in the region. The incident involved a Chinese coast guard ship and an accompanying vessel ramming a Philippine coast guard ship and a military-run supply boat off a contested shoal. MALACAÑANG PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE/AP/AARON FAVILA By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

HE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is considering an off-cycle rate hike as early as Thursday this week if the latest data shows that inflation is poised to worsen in October. BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. told reporters on Tuesday that an off-cycle rate hike “is on the table.” This may happen as early as Thursday this week or next week. Inflation has been rising since August at 5.3 percent and in September at 6.1 percent. Despite this, the BSP still expects inflation to hit the 2 to 4 percent target by this quarter. “If the data says inflation will go up very significantly and there’s a risk of affecting inflationary expectations, then we may go for an off-cycle hike,” Remolona said. If the BSP pushes through with an off-cycle rate hike this week or next week, this will be the second off-cycle rate hike implemented

since July 2022, when the Monetary Board raised key policy rates by 75 basis points to 3.25 percent. The off-cycle rate hike implemented in July 2022 was considered the most aggressive monetar y policy tightening move of the BSP since it adopted its inf lation-targeting framework in 2001, more than two decades ago. (https://businessmirror. com.ph/2022/07/14/phl-hikesrates-to-temper-inflation/). The next Monetary Board meeting is slated for November 17. If the key policy rate is raised this week, this will be four weeks ahead of the scheduled policy rate setting.

GOVT WANTS TO SHORTEN ‘TRIGGER PERIOD’ FOR FUEL SUBSIDY RELEASE By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

OARING oil prices have prompted President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to order the Department of Energy (DOE) and other concerned agencies to implement mitigating measures, including shortening the “trigger period” for the release of fuel subsidies, to minimize the impact of pump prices on consumers. Last Tuesday, the Chief Executive held a sectoral meeting to tackle measures that will help address high global crude oil prices. DOE Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla said the President called for the amendment of a provision in the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) so the “trigger period” for the release of the fuel subsidy will be cut to one month from the original three months. Under the existing rules, the fuel subsidy, which ranges from P1,000 to P10,000, can only be distributed if the average crude oil prices breach $80 per barrel

for three consecutive months. Congress is still deliberating the 2024 GAA, which is expected to be completed before the end of the year. Lotilla said the fuel subsidy program has been allocated a budget of P2.5 billion for next year. “So, with this simplification or shortening of the period, we will be able to release the subsidies in a shorter period of time,” the DOE chief said.

‘Supply-side interventions crucial to taming inflation’

OOLING inflation is the responsibility of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the national government,

according to a Monetary Board Member (MBM). See “MBM,” A2

List of beneficiaries

ASIDE from the shortened trigger period, Lotilla also said that they are trying to institutionalize the designation of concerned agencies in preparing the list of beneficiaries of the fuel subsidy to fast-track processing. “ The Department of Transportation will be responsible for the list for those which are under the LTFRB [Land Transportation Franchising See “Fuel,” A2

See “BSP,” A2

PESO EXCHANGE RATES n US 56.8210 n JAPAN 0.3796 n UK 69.5944 n HK 7.2620 n CHINA 7.7761 n SINGAPORE 41.5844 n AUSTRALIA 36.0075 n EU 60.6280 n KOREA 0.0423 n SAUDI ARABIA 15.1478 Source:

BSP (24 October 2023)

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

BusinessMirror

Hiking ethanol blend to cut pump prices by over ₧1 per liter–DOE By Lenie Lectura

@llectura

ASOLINE pump prices could be reduced by over P1 per liter with the proposed voluntary implementation of increasing the ethanol blend in gasoline products to 20 percent. The mandated blend for gasoline products being retailed at the pumps is at 10 percent. There has been clamor from the biofuels industry players to increase this to 20 percent. The lack of local feedstock to increase production, however, remains a challenge. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the proposal to raise the ethanol blend, which needs to be approved by the Biofuels Board, is meant to mitigate rising fuel prices. Oil firms implemented another round of price hikes this week, resulting in a year-to-date net increase of P13.75/liter for gasoline, P11.70/liter diesel and P6.25/liter for kerosene. Oil firms adjust their pump prices every week to reflect move-

ments in the world oil market. “The new policy we will be implementing is voluntary raising it to 20 percent. Increasing ethanol blend is more than one-peso reduction in gasoline pump price,” said Lotilla, who also chairs the Biofuels Board. According to the DOE, oil firms were already informed about this but since the implementation is purely voluntary Lotilla is hoping for their compliance. Lotilla stressed this is “a pricemitigation measure” because ethanol is cheaper than gasoline. “Right now, price of gasoline without ethanol is at P56.89…It will result in a price differential of around P1.28 or up to even P1.50 depending on prices.”

Lotilla and other concerned government agencies were convened by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to discuss ways on how to bring down pump prices. The possible increase of coco methyl ester (CME) content of biodiesel to 3 percent (B3) from 2 percent (B2) was also raised. “Another thing the President considered was the increase in B2 to B3 which can actually be accommodated by the supply of feedstock. The increase in the blend can also drive down the cost of CME because there will be a bigger market for it. Right now, we expect pure diesel to be at parity with CME per liter,” said Lotilla. The signing into law of Republic Act 9367 or the “Biofuels Act of 2006” paved the way for the blending of 1 percent (B1) cocobiodisel or CME in local diesel. It was last increased to 2 percent (B2) in 2007. The Philippine Biodiesel Association (TPBA), the country’s leading group of biodiesel stakeholders and industry advocate, earlier proposed for a phased implementation of the blending of CME in local diesel from the current B2 to B3 and then to B5. TPBA also proposed to government regulators a phased, yearly upshift starting with B3, then

eventually leading to B5 to cushion sudden adverse market reaction. TPBA said there is “more than enough” to meet the expected surge in demand. When sought for comment, the country’s biggest producer of premium CME, welcomed the new development. “It is wonderful news to hear the President’s support for B3. The feedstock is available and the capacities for making CME are ready to support the increase in mandate. We expect many benefits to come with a B3 mandate: mileage improvement; lower pollution; import substitution and value adding of coconut oil. These benefits will come with no practical cost to the government, yet have extensive benefits to the country,” said Chemrez Technologies Inc. President Dean Lao Jr.

Govt aims to ramp up use of EVs in mass transport By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

RESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. wants to ramp up the “electrification” of the country’s transport sector with the construction of more charging stations and electricity-powered vehicle (EV) manufacturing plants nationwide. During a sectoral meeting with the Department of Energy (DOE) on Tuesday in Malacañang, the Chief Executive said he wants to increase the number of EVs used for mass transport and light cargo vehicles. “So, the President gave emphasis on the need, one, for having the charging stations in place,” Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla said in a press briefing. Based on data from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), there are currently 29 accredited EV Charging Stations (EVCS). The EVCS provided service to 9,666 registered EVs from 2022. The number of registered EVs is expected to increase this year after the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) reported it sold 2,557 units from January to June, or more than double the 1,072 units, it sold last year. Lotilla said the President wants to further increase the number of local EVs by attracting EV manufacturers in the country. “The President also emphasized the need for preparing the economy for the eventual manufacture of electric vehicles in the country and linking this up with the local mining sector that will produce the minerals needed for the production of batteries and other components of electric vehicles,” the DOE chief said. Last week, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it is eyeing the creation of economic zones for EV manufacturing. DOE noted Marcos is pushing to popularize the use of EVs since it will allow motorists to reduce their transportation expenses from using vehicles, which use internal combustion engines. “For those using gasoline, the per kilometer run is at five pesos and thirty centavos, but for the light duty electric vehicles, it’s a range of one peso and 26 centavos to one peso and 90 centavos per kilometer; whereas, the cost for those running on diesel is at four pesos per kilometer,” Lotilla said. “Of course, these are based on assumptions of the cost of gasoline at 70 per liter and the cost of diesel at 66 pesos per liter,” he added.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

BSP. . . Should the Monetary Board decide to raise interest rates by 25 basis points, this will bring the country’s Target Reverse Repurchase (RRP) Rate to 6.5 percent. It will replace the current 6.25 percent RRP rate as the highest rate the country has had since May 2007 when rates were at 7.5 percent. In 2007, the rates were maintained for 16 months since November 2005 when it was raised by 25 basis points from 7.25 percent. Earlier, the BSP said it remained undeterred in its hawkish stance and still intends to raise interest rates in November. In a briefing on Wednesday, Remolona said he is not ruling out a 25-basis-point (bps) rate hike in November given the latest data, including the 6.1-percent headline

inflation rate recorded in September 2023. Inflation reached the high end of the BSP’s month-ahead inflation forecast due to more expensive rice prices which increased 17.9 percent, the highest in 14 years. (Full story here: https://businessmirror.com.ph /2023/10/06/ september-inf lation-rises-to6-1-rice-prices-blamed/) While headline inflation rate increased, Remolona said it was worth noting that core inflation slowed. Core inflation slowed to 5.9 percent, bringing the year-todate rate to 7.2 percent. While this was certainly “encouraging,” Remolona said one of the BSP’s main fears was the increase in transport fares, which has already happened. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) approved the P1 jeepney fare hike which was implemented last week.

Fuel. . .

Crude prices

Continued from A1

and Reg u lator y Board], then DILG [Department of the Interior and Local Government] will come up with the list for those which are with the tricycle drivers under the local governments and then, DTI [Department of Trade and Industry] will take care of the rest and that will simplify the process,” he said. T he DOE chief noted that the release of the previous fuel subsidies were delayed due to the vetting process for the list of beneficiaries from DILG and local government units. “Probably our experience this year will be a good guide for next year. So, we just need to clean-up the list, but we don’t need to start from scratch,” Lotilla said. The P3-billion fuel subsidy program this year is expected to benefit 1.36 million transport sector players.

MBM. . . Continued from A1

MBM Bruce J. Tolentino, in a recent briefing, said addressing inflation involves interventions from both the BSP on the demand side and the National Government on the supply side. The central bank sees average inflation settling at 5.8 percent in 2023, and further moderating to 3.5 percent in 2024 and 3.4 percent in 2025. Private sector analysts expect to see inflation reaching 5.9 percent in 2023, 3.7 percent in 2024, and 3.5 percent in 2025. “Managing inflation is the responsibility not only of the central bank. We share it with the rest of the government, particularly the fiscal authorities, especially at a time when issues driving the inflation rate are supply side-driven,” said Tolentino. On the part of the BSP, Deputy Governor (DG) Francis G. Dakila Jr. said the Philippine central bank is closely monitoring risks to inflation. The Monetary Board is expected to raise key policy rates in November. (full story: https://businessmirror.com. p h / 2 0 2 3/0 9/ 2 2 / b s p - k e e p s rates-but-signals-a-hike-innovember/). “We’re carefully watching the risks and remain hawkish. Before we consider any relaxation on the policy stance, we need to be very confident that inflation has been restored to the target,” Dakila said during meetings with investors in Morocco last week. Dakila also said the Philippines’s robust external position continues to cushion the country against global spillovers.

AS of writing, Brent crude was trading at $90.40 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude was priced at $87.02 per barrel. The high global oil prices caused gasoline prices in Metro Manila to reach as much as P85.45 per liter, while diesel prices ranged from P57.80 to P83.90 per liter based on the DOE’s price monitoring as of October 17. Lotilla said the government expects fuel prices to stabilize before the end of the year as long as existing conflicts in Israel and Ukraine will not spread to other countries. “The gap between supply and demand is going to narrow towards the end of the year and even continue in 2024 because there are additional supplies that are coming from other countries like Brazil and the US. And the US is lifting their embargo on Venezuela, so this will be adding to the supply,” Lotilla said. He noted that the country’s gross international reserves stood at $99.6 billion at the end of August this year and represented 7.4 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and primary income. Year-on-year, overseas Filipino remittances also grew by 2.9 percent to $18.8 billion in January to July, while business process outsourcing revenues rose by 8 percent to $13.6 billion as of June 2023. Dakila said domestic liquidity remains “sufficient” to support the funding requirements of households and business. He added that Philippine banks remain prudent in its lending activities, with the non-performing loan ratio remaining low at 3.4 percent at endAugust 2023. Due to the latest inflation print and risks that could further lead to price spikes for the country’s food staple, there may be room to revisit its proposal to reduce rice tariffs, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda). The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that inflation rose to 6.1 percent in September on the back of a 17.9-percent increase in rice prices. While the average headline inf lation rate was a four-month high, the spike in rice prices was the highest in 14 years. (Full story here: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2023/10/06/september-inf lation-rises-to-6-1-rice-prices-blamed/. Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said in a statement that if global rice prices keep rising, the government must respond to stabilize commodity prices nationwide. As the country’s food staple, rice is heavily weighted in the country’s Consumer Price Index. Cai U. Ordinario

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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

MDT cannot be invoked just yet despite China WPS harassments

he country cannot invoke its Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States despite increasing Chinese harassment in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). “Hindi pa po, yung ganitong mga sitwasyon, hindi pa po kailangang iinvoke yung MDT, yung mga mas malalang mga atake, a deliberate attack for instance on our Philippine ships or an attack dito sa ating teritoryo would necessitate yung paginvoke natin ng MDT. [For a situation like this, not yet, the MDT does not have to be invoke for this, it could only be invoked in a severe attack, a deliberate attack, for instance on Philippine ships or an attack in our territory, that would necessitate the invoking of the MDT],” by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said in broadcast interview Tuesday. Signed on August 30, 1951, the MDT is an accord that stipulates that the Philippines and the United States would support each other if either of them were to be attacked by an external party. However, Brawner believes that joint patrols or joint sails with like-minded allies in the WPS are more applicable as this will show that the country is “united” with its allies. “Tuloy-tuloy yung ating mga joint

exercises, joint patrols, joint sails dito sa WPS ng sa gayun ay makita ng kahit na sino man ano na talagang united tayo with our partners and allies. [Our joint exercises, joint patrols, joint sails in the WPS will continue, to show to anyone that we are united with our partners and allies],” the AFP chief said. Earlier, National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said China’s continuing efforts to impede and harass Filipino supply boats and their escorts on going about their lawful mandate in the WPS is increasing the tensions in the area as exemplified by the latest collision incident that affected two Philippine vessels last October 22. “The provocative actions are on the part of China. It is not the Philippines that is increasing tension, it is China that is increasing tension in the WPS ,especially by interfering and blocking our legitimate resupply mission,” National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said in a press briefing Monday. Malaya also called the collision that damaged Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel, PCG Cabra (MRRV-4409) and supply boat, Unaiza May 2 as “alarming.” Rex Anthony Naval

Poll hopefuls reminded: Keep last few campaign days garbage-free By Jonathan L. Mayuga @jonlmayuga

local waste and pollution watchdog on Tuesday urged barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan candidates to keep the last few campaign days free of litter, plastic, and smoke.

“As the campaign enters its final stretch, we urge all candidates to find ways to lessen the environmental impact of their bid to garner votes,”Ochie Tolentino, Zero Waste Campaigner, EcoWaste Coalition said in a statement. “Candidates and their supporters should see to it that activities during the remaining days of campaign will not disregard

Bulacan RTC asked to reconsider acquittal of Palparan, three others

HE National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL) asked the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Malolos, Bulacan to reverse and set aside its decision acquitting former Army Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan and three others on charges of kidnapping and torture of farmer brothers Raymond and Reynaldo Manalo in 2006. In a 35-page motion for reconsideration, the NUPL insisted that the prosecution evidence against Palparan and his co-accused Michael Dela Cruz, Marcelo Dela Cruz and Maximo Dela Cruz, all members of the Civilian Active Auxiliary (CAA), were sufficient to establish alleged conspiracy among the four and their alleged criminal liabilities. Malolos RTC Branch 19 Presiding Judge Francisco Felizmenio, in its October 6 decision, held that the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt the alleged conspiracy between Palparan and the three other accused.

It also noted the inconsistencies on the testimonies of the prosecution’s lone witness, Raymond, in connection with his experience when he was kidnapped and detained allegedly by the accused. Furthermore, the trial court said Raymond failed to sufficiently identify Palparan as the main perpetrator of the crime. The court expressed doubts on the claim of Raymond that he had an opportunity to see Palparan in a dark basketball court in Barangay Sapang, San Miguel, Bulacan, where they supposedly met between midnight and 3:00 in the morning. “It is important to note that accused Palparan is a public figure who is notorious for his substantial role in the bloody antiinsurgency campaigns of the government during former President Gloria MacapagalArroyo’s administration,” the motion read. “With this, it should not come as a surprise how an average Filipino could be familiar with the face of accused Palparan after having seen him many times on the news is in accord with ordinary human experience,” it added.

The trial court also gave credence to the claim of the defense that the structures near the basketball court described by Raymond were inexistent. “That Raymond was not completely accurate in his description of the entire compound wherein the barangay court was located only shows that Raymond was fully attentive to the identity of the person he was talking to at the time, who is none other than accused Palparan,” the motion stated. “What is paramount is that in his sworn statements and oral testimonies, Raymond was consistent in stating that it was accused Palparan whom he met in the middle of the basketball court at the compound of Barangay Sapang. Notably the existence of this basketball court and the compound in which the said court was located was not denied by the defense,” it added. The Manalo brothers claimed they were abducted by alleged military officers from their respective houses in San Ildefonso, Bulacan in 2006. Raymond said they were detained for more than one year in vari-

ous military camps in Southern Luzon before managing to escape on August 13, 2007. During their detention, Raymond said he met and managed to talk to the two missing UP students identified as Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeño, who were also being detained by Palparan’s men. Raymond further narrated that she saw Cadapan and Empeño being subjected to torture by their captors. The Court of Appeals (CA) had ruled in 2007 that his testimony was “clear, consistent and convincing”as it ordered the Armed Forces to produce the bodies of the students. In 2018, the Malolos RTC Branch 15 Presiding Judge Alexander Tamayo found Palparan and his co-accused guilty of kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the two missing UP students. The trial court sentenced them to reclusion perpetua or a maximum of 40 years in prison. It denied Palparan and co-accused’s motion for reconsideration a month after. The trial court has directed the Palparan and co-accused to pay P300,000 each in civil indemnity and moral damages to the families of Calapan and Empeño. Empeño and Cadapan, who are believed to be already dead, were abducted from a house in Barangay San Miguel, Hagonoy, Bulacan on June 26, 2006.

environmental laws, especially RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act and related local ordinances,” she stressed. “As the final rallies or ‘miting de avance’ are expected to draw large crowds, including beverage and food vendors, organizers should ensure that littering, an offense prohibited by RA 9003, is controlled and prevented,” Tolentino said. She also urged to keep rallies tobacco-free and vape-free, too. “Please refrain from lighting firecrackers and fireworks, throwing confetti, using party poppers, or releasing balloons to cap

your electoral campaign,” Tolentino added. “Aside from the resulting pollution, using them near overhead lines may cause power to trip or get interrupted.” According to EcoWaste, candidates and their supporters should strictly abide by the ban on the distribution of sample ballots, which often end up being littered, particularly at the entrance of polling places and adjacent street. “Children, or the elderly, should not be used to distribute sample ballots like we have seen in past elections,” the group said. The group also cautioned candidates from

using or giving away food and drinks served in styrofoam and other single-use plastics for the meals of poll watchers and other volunteers. “Cut down on plastic bottles by advising your teammates to bring their water in reusable containers. Remind them also to use the segregated waste bins for their discards,” Tolentino said. EcoWaste is also urging candidates to conduct post-campaign clean up the following day regardless of the poll results. This way, the group said candidates could reduce the volume of waste sent to disposal sites by recycling, reusing, or upcycling used or excess

campaign materials. “As plastic tarpaulins often contain hazardous chemicals like cadmium, lead, and phthalates, we do not recommend reusing or upcycling them as articles for children’s use or as packaging for food,” she added. “Finally, please do away with wasteful ‘thank you’ tarpaulins. You can express your appreciation to the electorate and Mother Earth by performing your responsibilities as a public servant to the best of your ability, and by not engaging in corrupt and dirty politics,” Tolentino concluded.

By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Economy

PHL’s blue economy posted 21.13% growth to ₧857.74B in 2022–PSA By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

H E value of the countr y ’s blue economy posted a double - digit growth in 2022 but remained below pre-pandemic levels, according to the latest data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The data showed the value of the blue economy reached P857.74 billion in 2022, a 21.13 percent growth from P708.1 billion in 2021. This is the fastest growth recorded

in the past five years. Based on the data, this accounted for 3.9 percent of the country’s P22.02 trillion-worth GDP in 2022, in current terms. This is the highest share in GDP that the ocean economy posted since the 4.6 percent share in 2019. “Ocean-based industries include ocean fishing, off-shore and coastal mining and quarrying, manufacture of ocean-based products, coastal construction, oceanbased power generation, [and] sea-based transportation and storage,” the PSA said. “(It also includes) marine insurance,

marine renting and business activities, maritime safety, surveillance and resource management, maritime education, coastal hotels, and recreation,” it added. Agriculture accounted for 51.4 percent, followed by services, which accounted for 43.2 percent, and industry, 5.4 percent of the blue economy in 2022. In terms of growth rates, the top three industries with the highest growths were Coastal accommodation and food and beverage services activities, which grew 248.3 percent; Coastal recreation, 161.7

percent; and Offshore and coastal mining and quarrying, 56.3 percent. Among the industries, Ocean fishing accounted for the largest share of 31.5 percent of the total ocean economy. This is the only industry under Agriculture. This was followed by the Manufacture of ocean-based products, 21.6 percent; Sea-based transportation and storage, 14.6 percent; and Ocean-based power generation, transmission, and distribution, 11.3 percent. The number of persons employed in ocean-based industries was 2.22 million in 2022. This was higher by 10.9 percent compared with 2.01 million persons employed in 2021. This accounted for 4.7 percent of the total employment in the country in 2022. Ocean fishing accounted for 51.4 percent of the total ocean-based employment.

PBBM approves creation of council for universal health care–Herbosa

O h e l p a d d re s s t h e c o u n t r y ’s “fragmented” medical ser vices, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday backed the creation of a Universal Health Care Coordinating Council (UHNCCC). “The President approved the Department of Health’s proposal of creating a Universal Health Care Coordinating Council through an executive order,” Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa said at news briefing in Malacañang. The Council will integrate the health-care services of local government units (LGU) and

standardize their health policies in line with the provision of Republic Act (RA) No. 11223 or the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act of 2021. It will also manage the special health funds under the UHC. “That’s why we created the council to watch the spending of the money on the special health fund and the implementation would be standard for all different LGUs (local government units),” As part of the integration process of province and citywide health system, the DOH chief said, the President tasked

DOH to compute how much it would cost to have equitable healthcare based on the demographics of the country. Herbosa noted that the delivery of medical service nationwide has become fragmented due to the implementation of the Local Government Code. “So, the President knows that there are diverse implementations of our LGUs, that our good implementers of health-care systems locally and there are those that haven’t put emphasis there,” the DOH chief said. Since the passage of the RA 11223, 71 local

government units (LGU) have “committed” to integrate their local health systems. Of which, 66 or 93 percent have initiated preparations for integration, “and are gearing for full functional implementation of the integration plans and access to an integrated health system by its constituents.” Herbosa said there are currently five UHC integration sites, which will become primary care provider network sandbox or trials or pilots. The said sites are Baguio, Bataan, Quezon, Guimaras and South Cotabato. Samuel P. Medenilla

Gatchalian: Poll shows 98% of Pinoys back free tuition in public universities

PULSE Asia survey commissioned by Senator Win Gatchalian revealed that 98 percent of Filipinos favor free tuition in public universities. This support extends across all economic classes: 99 percent in Classes ABC, 97 percent in Class D, and 100 percent in Class E; as well as across geographic regions such as the National Capital Region (NCR) at 98 percent, Balance Luzon at 96 percent, Visayas at 99 percent, and Mindanao at 100 percent. The survey was conducted from September 10 to 14 this year. Increase in the number of graduates is the top reason why Filipinos support free tuition in public universities, which Gatchalian said in news statement may highlight the

respondents’ belief that a college degree is the path towards a higher quality of life and better opportunities. When asked why they support free college tuition, more than half (51 percent) of the survey’s 1,200 adult respondents said that it results in more graduates. Specifically, 52 percent of respondents from Classes D and E, and 45 percent of those in Class ABC believe that free tuition in public universities leads to more graduates. Of the 1 percent who are not in favor of free tuition in public universities, nearly half expressed concerns about the quality of education, while another 47 percent mentioned the issue of underfunding in public universities.

Gatchalian has pointed out that because of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (Republic Act No. 10931) or the free higher education law, which he co-authored and co-sponsored, youth participation in higher education has increased. He noted that from 2018 to 2022, when the free higher education law was already in effect, the progression rate from senior high school to college has surged to an average of 81 percent. For Academic Years (AY) 2013-2014 and 20142015, before the Free Higher Education law was implemented, the progression rates from high school to college stood at 54 percent and 62 percent, respectively. “Marami na sa ating mga kababayan

ang nakinabang sa libreng kolehiyo, at mahalagang tiyakin nating patuloy nating mabibigyan ng dekalidad at abot-kayang edukasyon ang ating mga kabataan. Titiyakin nating matatanggap ng ating mga SUCs ang suportang kinakailangan nila upang makapaghatid ng dekalidad na edukasyon,” said Gatchalian. For fiscal year 2024, a deficiency of P4.1 billion looms over the budget of State Universities and Colleges (SUC) for free higher education. Gatchalian has vowed to work towards addressing this deficiency, noting how it would affect the capacity of SUCs to invest in facilities, laboratories, and other resources essential for ensuring quality education.

Sen. Go extends aid to TESDA scholars in CamNorte, stresses importance of tech-voc in community devt

ENATOR Christopher “Bong”Go expressed his strong support and commendation to the 150 scholars currently enrolled in the Technical Education and Skills Development

Authority (TESDA) program in Daet, Camarines Norte. The educational venture was initiated in collaboration with the Philippine Academy of Technical Studies, Inc. (PATS).

As part of his support, Go provided them with masks, pens, and shirts on Friday, October 20, at the MT2 Events Place in Daet, Camarines Norte. Select beneficiaries also received shoes, a cellphone, and balls for basketball and volleyball. In a video message, Go underscored the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the country. He said TVET aims to bridge the skills gap and ensure that all Filipinos, regardless of their economic background, have the opportunity to gain relevant and in-demand skills that will allow them to secure gainful employment and contribute to the country’s overall economic growth. “The skills and knowledge you have acquired here will be your foundation for success in your chosen field,” said Go. “Your dedication, hard work, and determination have truly paid off, and you stand as shining examples of the power of education and skill development. Through your commitment, you have not only enhanced your own capabilities but also contributed to the growth and progress of our nation,” he added. Go also filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2115, which aims to institutionalize TVET as well as

livelihood programs for rehabilitated drug dependents. The bill aims to provide skills training to enhance the employability of former drug dependents and allow them to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. “Rehabilitation alone is not enough. By institutionalizing technical-vocational education and training programs, we empower rehabilitated drug dependents with skills for a better future,” he said. Meanwhile, as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go encouraged those with health concerns to seek the services of the Malasakit Center at the Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital in Daet. Institutionalized in 2019 under Republic Act No. 11463, which Go principally authored and sponsored, the Malasakit Center serves as a one-stop shop aimed at helping indigent patients minimize their medical expenses to the lowest amount possible by collaborating with various agencies offering medical assistance programs. “Sa mga pasyente, lapitan niyo lang ang Malasakit Center dahil para ‘to sa inyo. Kung may hospital bill kayo, nandiyan ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno na tutulong para mabayaran ito,” said Go.

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

Nlex girds for ‘Undas,’ election traffic surge

LEX Corp. said on Tuesday it is preparing for an anticipated surge in traffic volume during the upcoming “Undas” and barangay elections, with traffic expected to rise by as much as a tenth during the long weekend next week. Luigi Bautista, the company’s president, said with traffic volume expected to increase by 10 percent during the said season, motorists are advised to plan their trips and to travel during non-peak periods to avoid the expected surge of travelers. Bautista said high traffic periods for northbound journeys are the afternoons of October 27 (Friday), early afternoon of October 28 (Saturday), as well as the mornings of October 30 (Monday) and November 1 (Wednesday). Southbound traffic is expected to peak on the afternoons of November 4 (Saturday) and 5 (Sunday) and the early morning of November 6 (Monday). “With the huge volume of vehicles, Nlex is on high alert to ensure that we address every motorist’s needs immediately,” said Bautista. To mitigate the effects of the

traffic surge, Nlex Corp. will deploy over 1,500 traffic, toll, and systems personnel to provide increased patrol visibility and toll plaza assistance between October 27 and November 6. Bautista also announced the early completion of the San Simon pavementraising project, which, together with the Abacan bridge, will be finished before the Undas peak. “We are extremely happy to announce the early completion of the San Simon pavement raising project and Abacan Bridge safety repair. The availability of all the lanes will help improve the travel experience of every motorist plying the expressway, especially this coming long weekend,” he said. Additionally, from October 27 to November 6, construction and lane closures along the mainline road of North Luzon Expressway, Subic-ClarkTarlac Expressway, and Nlex Connector will be suspended, unless safety repairs are necessary. Bautista also urged motorists to check their vehicles before embarking on their journeys and ensure they are fit to drive to prevent any untoward incidents. Lorenz S. Marasigan

Exec: Logistics woes crimp banana shipments to Japan Continued from A16

Under the agreement, the MOU noted that “Each of the Parties shall assist the other Party in the organization of or participation in exhibitions, trade fairs, symposiums, seminars, conferences, study tours, business—matching, and other means of trade and investment promotion and similar events taking place in their territories that aim to expand business and economic cooperation.” PCCI President George T. Barcelon said

this agreement “is an opening for us..to look into some of the many sectors that would benefit us, like in the agricultural sectors we have a potential of increasing our export of fruits.” Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that Philippine exports to Japan in August reached $917.98 million, a 3.5-percent decline from the $950.81 million recorded last year while imports from Japan amounted to $786.65 million in August 2023, down 22.4 percent from the previous year’s $1.01 billion.

‘Right policy mix will entice investors in nuclear power’ Continued from A16

It’s just a matter of time when each technology will fit in to our needs,” said the AboitizPower official. An Executive Order to include nuclear power in the country’s energy mix was already signed in 2022. The government is now laying the groundwork that will satisfy the competency requirements based on the milestone approach of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), including stable government policy support with favorable public perception. Also, the National Policy and Strategy for Safety on Nuclear Energy is already being drafted. According to DOE Secretary Raphael Lotilla, this will set out the government’s long-term commitment to achieve the fundamental safety objectives and to apply the essential safety principles established by the IAEA.

“This policy document is intended to foster transparency in all related activities of our nuclear energy program, particularly on the protection of the people and the environment,” the energy chief said. Lotilla said the government is working with the private sector to see what investment framework can best be adapted by government taking into account the particular risk facing nuclear power. “Policy and regulatory reforms are ultimately needed to stimulate investments in nuclear power program. Its success will hinge on strong support from all stakeholders—from polic y makers, regulators, consumers, and the community. As we await on the progress of the regulatory bill currently being pushed in Congress, and the finalization of our nuclear energy roadmap, the Philippine Department of Energy will continue to participate in discussions, such as this, to enhance our current programs,” said Lotilla.

News

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

Japan firms put PHL on top of investment destination list By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

ALACAÑANG said the country’s booming economy and population has made it into a top investment destination for members of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI). Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy V. Garafil disclosed that JCCI chair Ken Kobayashi made the remark during his meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday. “The nation’s stable and high-level economic growth in recent years have attracted Japanese investors to develop their operations in anticipation of increased workforce population as well as domestic demand,” Garafil said in a statement issued on Tuesday. Kobayashi led the 70-person contingent of JCCI, which visited the country, its first economic mission since the pandemic. During their meeting with the President, they discussed potential investment opportunities in the country,

which are in line with the country’s priority agenda, namely, social security and the development of human capital, digital infrastructure, and the promotion of green economy. “And it is expected that in these fields that we can see the further promotion of the cooperation between our two countries,” the JCCI head told Marcos. For his part, the Chief Executive urged JCCI members to also consider investing in the country’s agriculture and climate change adaptation. “There is the overbearing issue of climate change. This is something that we really did not have to deal with in the past. But it is something that is here and present and we feel the effects of climate change, especially here in the Philippines already,” Marcos said. “Also, we have put great priority on the development of our agricultural sector. And again, we had some very interesting discussions with our Japanese counterparts concerning the areas of agriculture,” he added. JCCI is the largest business organization in Japan having 1.25 million member companies.

DND lauds France, South Korea, Japan support after WPS collision incidents By Rex Anthony Naval

HE Department of National Defense (DND) on Tuesday has acknowledged the statement coming from the governments of France, South Korea, and Japan that expressed support to the Philippines following the October 22 incidents where Chinese vessels hit Filipino ships engaged in resupply missions in the West Philippine Sea. “We wish to acknowledge the statements issued by the Governments of France, South Korea, and Japan supporting the Philippines in the latest incident wherein Chinese vessels, operating illegally, aggressively, and provocatively, hit Philippine ships in the WPS,” the DND said. Last October 22, Chinese coast guard and maritime militia vessels, in an attempt to interfere with a regular resupply mission to the detachment manning the BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57) in Ayungin Shoal, conducted aggressive and dangerous maneuvers that resulted in supply boat Unaiza May 2 and its escort, BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409), being hit and damaged.

The damage also prevented Unaiza May 2 from completing its mission of resupplying Filipino troops aboard the BRP Sierra Madre. Fortunately, the other supply boat, Unaiza May 1, was able to proceed and complete its missions. As this developed, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan called and spoke with Philippine National Security Advisor Eduardo M. Año and reiterated American support following the October 22 collision incident with Chinese vessels. “Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Año reaffirmed the enduring alliance and friendship between our nations and discussed upcoming US-Philippine engagements and ways to further strengthen our close partnership,” the White House readout dated October 23 said. Sul livan a lso emphasized the “ironclad” US alliance commitments to the Philippines under the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty. This extends to armed attacks on Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces—to include those of its Coast Guard—in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea.

AFP looking at ‘other options’ for WPS resupply missions

HE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said it is looking at using other means to transport equipment, provisions and other items to its various detachments in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This was emphasized by AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. when asked whether aircraft or helicopters can be utilized to transport items needed by troops aboard the BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57). “Sinubukan na po natin yan, pero ang problema kunti lang po yung supply na kayang dalhin, and of course yung mga helicopters natin hindi nya kaya yung mula dun sa Palawan hanggang dun sa Ayungin Shoal masyadong malayo po [We already tried that, but the problem is that aircraft could only transport a small amount of the items needed, and of course, helicopters do not have the range to fly from Palawan to Ayungin Shoal, it is just too far],” he added in a radio broadcast interview. The distance from Puerto Princesa, Palawan to Ayungin Shoal is around 315 kilometers. “But again we are looking into possibilities, marami pa tayong pwedeng gawin. [We can still other means of delivery],” Brawner said. Last October 22, Chinese coast guard and maritime vessels conducted a series of

aggressive maneuvers against Filipino ships conducting a resupply mission for troops aboard the BRP Sierra, hitting and damaging supply boat Unaiza May 2 and BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409). The AFP chief also dismissed China’s claim that the Philippines is doing provocative actions in the WPS and should be blamed for the October 22 collision incidents that damaged two Filipino vessels. He also said that China’s claims that the WPS is part of its territory is not true. “Sinasabi natin ano everytime na tsinachallenge tayo dun sa WPS na pinapaalis tayo dahil sa kanila daw yun, we also counter challenge them sinasabi natin na this belongs to the Philippines, this is our exclusive economic zone or kung nandito man sa territorial waters natin sinasabi natin this is part of the Philippine territorial waters ano. [We stand our ground very time they challenge or try to drive us away from the WPS]. We also issue a counter challenge and tell them that this territory belongs to the Philippines, this is part of our exclusive economic zone, and or if they are intruding in our territorial waters, we tell them that this is part of Philippine territorial waters,” Brawner said. Rex Anthony Naval

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

PSF Board okays release of ₧500M for LGU climate adaptation projects By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

HE People’s Survival Fund (PSF) Board has approved over P500 million worth of climate adaptation projects for various local government units (LGUs), according to the Department of Finance (DOF). The DOF said the PSF Board, chaired by Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno, recently approved P539 million worth of new climate adaptation projects. “ T he newly-approved projects will be implemented in the climate vulnerable areas of Mountain Province, City of Borongan, and Municipalities of Maramag, Cabagan, and Catanauan,” the department said in

a news release on Tuesday. The projects that were approved by the PSF Board were P126.4-million drainage and early warning systems installation and agroforestry industry development in Maramag Bukidnon, P21.28-million solar-powered irrigation project in Cabagan, Isabela and P2.63-million mangrove rehabilitation project in Catanauan, Quezon. The other projects approved by the board were the P118-million Lo-Om River flood control project in Borongan City, Eastern Samar and the construction of climate field school for farmers in Mountain Province worth P271.15 million, according to the DOF. “I commend the Board and its members for its efforts to expedite the approval of the new projects, allowing

us to fully utilize the disbursement of P1 billion allocated to the PSF,” Diokno said. “For our part, the DOF shall continue to address the delays in the current system by improving processing time and providing sufficient resources to assist our proponents,” Diokno added. The PSF was created under Republic Act No. 10174 to finance adaptation programs and projects of LGUs and accredited local and community organizations. The PSF Board sets a criteria for the selection and approval of projects in consideration of the level of risk and vulnerability to climate change of affected communities. The PSF has an initial capitaliza-

Omar Acosta: From a crusading newsman to graft fighter in QC grassroots politics

ETER A N newsman Omar Acosta does it again. Known for his strict adherence to the role of the journalist as watchdog of society for truth and honesty, he seeks to boost the fight against corruption as chairman of barangay Socorro in Quezon City. Journalists are traditionally bound by the profession to question and criticize, to make accountable for their actions those in power, like politicians. By going into the political fray, Acosta said he will bring to local governance the crusading spirit that drives newsmen to correct perceived wrongs in society. Interviewed over the weekend in the program Usapang Senado on radio station DWIZ, Acosta briefed program host Raul Esperas about

Comelec report confirms Masbate shooting incidents ‘poll-related’ By Patrick V. Miguel

HE recent shootings in the province of Masbate were related to the upcoming election, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia confirmed on Monday. Masbate City and the Municipality of Placer each have a recorded electionrelated violence, said Garcia, citing reports from the local Philippine National Police (PNP). In Masbate City, Barangay Maingaran a kagawad candidate was killed in a shooting incident on Sunday, while a barangay chairman aspirant was wounded. Meanwhile, in Barangay Cabangcalan, Placer, a campaign gathering was fired upon, leaving one dead and two others wounded. The incident in Placer, Masbate is still being investigated, said Garcia. The poll chief said there are also election-related violence that occurred in Pangasinan and Cotabato City. In Cotabato City, two barangay kagawad candidates were declared dead on arrival, another one casualty, and two were wounded, all coming from the same barangay. Garcia said there are more or less 25 confirmed election related violence as of Monday, citing PNP reports. Despite these figures, this is the lowest recorded number of violence in election history, he claimed. “Hahabulin naming lahat ng nagbabanta at nagbabalak gumawa ng krimen, lalo na patungkol sa mga magkakalaban patungkol sa eleksyon. [We will go after after those who are threatening and planning to commit a crime, especially rivals in the election],” said Garcia.

the 9-point program of government he envisions. Highlight of his agenda is a bid to curb corruption “that has resulted in a total breakdown in basic services.” “Barangay Socorro has a budget of P75 million that is more than adequate to deliver the people’s basic needs. We are fortunate that we have a constant source of income from a lot of big business establishments located in the barangay,” Acosta said. The community however “is mired in poverty because of corruption. It is the root of all the problems that afflict so many of us in the baran-

gay,” he said. Acosta sa he knows whereof he speaks, having served as barangay kagawad or councilman for five years and as secretary until three years ago, when he resigned in disgust over the corrupt transactions that he witnessed. “My background as a newsman kicked in, and I felt that I had to do something and I had better chances of fighting the system by being out of it,” he said. His envisioned anti-corruption drive involves promoting the return of morality and integrity in the barangay leadership. He will do away with

tion of P1 billion. The DOF said about P887.63 million out of the fund’s initial budget has been allocated to 11 projects and six project development grants, resulting in a fund balance of P110.36 million. The PSF is managed by a multisectoral board chaired by the Finance Secretary. The members of the board are the vice chairperson of the Climate Change Commission, Budget Secretary, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary, Interior secretary, and the chairperson of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW). Representatives from the academe and scientific community, the business sector, and the non-government organization sector are also members of the PSF board.

personalities tainted with anomalies in their public service, billed by the community as Kamag-anak Inc., supporters of the current administration who treat the barangay as their personal domain, and the elitist system that dictates who among residents deserve welfare assistance from the government. He also envisions having barangay personnel undergo skills upgrading training that will make them more effective community development workers and qualify them for higher salaries that he plans to implement once elected. Acosta, however, is resolved to serve only for one term. “Five years is more than enough for a good leader to bring about positive change. There are a lot of brilliant minds in barangay Socorro who can serve well,” he explained.

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

TheWorld BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

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BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

1D BUILDERS CORP. 12/f Robinsons Summit Center, 6783 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati HEAH CHONG HONG Operations Manager 1.

Brief Job Description: Ensure all operations are carried on in an appropriate, cost effective way. Improve operational management systems, processes and best practices.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Expert in foreign languages.

PARK, WON HEUM General Manager 2.

Brief Job Description: Overseeing daily business operations. Developing and implementing growth strategies.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Outstanding communication, interpersonal and leadership skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ACQUIRE ASIA PACIFIC PHILIPPINES INC. 32nd Floor, Robinsons Cyberspace Gamma, Topaz And Ruby Roads, Ortigas Center, San Antonio, City Of Pasig

HONBA MBENA, BLAISE EMMANUEL Subject Matter Expert 3.

Brief Job Description: Provide support and addresses consultation needs of the Tier 1 agents on all Ring Central Brands.

Brief Job Description: Maintain and drive program knowledge for self and team.

Brief Job Description: Communicates effectively via email and/or telephone both in Mandarin and English languages, with the company’s customer base - buyer, merchants and internal customers.

Brief Job Description: Perform all your duties diligently and with reasonable competence, and act in accordance with the instructions and directions given to you by the company through its authorized officers.

NGUYEN THI TUONG VY Client Advisory Bi Senior Executive 7.

SUN, DUXUN Client BPO Executive 10.

TRAN VIET ANH Client BPO Executive 11.

ONG PEI SIM, MERCHINA a.k.a. WANG PEIXIN Client BPO Manager 12.

TAN, KHENG Finance Senior Executive 14.

ANASTHASIA PRISKILA FREDERIK Associate-Indonesia 15.

Brief Job Description: Timely and accurate processing of specific transactions according to standard contribute to process improvements and documentation.

16.

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin language.

CHEN, XIAO Client Care Associate Mandarin Speaking

17.

Brief Job Description: Providing data analytics and data management for the company.

BAI, ZHONGZHI Costing Manager 19.

20.

Basic Qualification: College degree in any field.

Brief Job Description: Prepares and submits routine recurring and special reports to management.

WANG, ZHENGFA Electrician Brief Job Description: Install electrical wiring in project site.

HU, YANGBO Procurement Supervisor 21.

Basic Qualification: Must be a native Malaysian/ Taiwanese/ Korean/Singaporean/ Thai/Vietnamese.

Brief Job Description: Prepare purchase order and review ensuring accuracy and completeness.

LI, ZIKANG Reinforcing Ironworker 22.

Brief Job Description: Cutting bending and welding steel to create the structures required in job site.

FENG, CHENG Site Consulting Officer 23.

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

Brief Job Description: Coordinate with vendors to determine potential material costs.

Basic Qualification: Must be a native Malaysian/ Taiwanese/ Korean/Singaporean/ Thai/Vietnamese.

QIN, JIANLI Technician

Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999 Basic Qualification: Must be a native Malaysian/ Taiwanese/ Korean/Singaporean/ Thai/Vietnamese. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

Basic Qualification: Excellent verbal and written communications, English language skill is mandatory and any other language is beneficial. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Basic Qualification: Must be fluent in Chinese language (writing & speaking). Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

Basic Qualification: Has the extensive experience in data analytics and data management and is proficient and able to communicate in Mandarin or any Chinese language. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

CHINA ROAD AND BRIDGE CORPORATION Unit 2605, 2607, 2608, & 2609, High St. South Corporate Plaza, Tower 1, 9th Avenue Corner 26th St. Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Basic Qualification: Must be a native Malaysian/ Taiwanese/ Korean/Singaporean/ Thai/Vietnamese.

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

Brief Job Description: Providing data analytics and data management for the company.

TAN JIAN HAU Operations Analyst 18.

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

Basic Qualification: Must be a native Malaysian/ Taiwanese/ Korean/Singaporean/ Thai/Vietnamese.

No.

24.

Brief Job Description: Manages and operates all construction equipment.

Basic Qualification: Experience in costing management and fluent in Chinese and English languages. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: Experience in handling site equipment and fluent in Chinese and English languages.

26.

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: Experience as reinforcing ironworker and fluent in Chinese and English languages. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: Experience in site consulting operations and fluent in Chinese and English languages.

GABA, AJAY KUMAR Sr. Director, Financial Planning & Analysis 27.

28.

MICHAEL JORDAN JEVERLY Senior Process Executive - Data 25.

Brief Job Description: Provide support thorough media review of sports, entertainment and adult video content for Bahasa language.

Basic Qualification: Typing and communication skills and Bahasa language expertise. Salary Range: Php 90,000 - Php 149,999

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

Brief Job Description: Work with business leadership in setting goals and objectives for the function as well as in setting policies, programs, and procedures that are aligned with Concentrix business goals and objectives.

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in related field from a fouryear college or university, with twelve years of relevant experience, and with four to six years of Progressive Management experience preferred. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

AIKE LINT Chinese Cargo Office Agent Brief Job Description: Prepare airline and custom documentation.

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

EVERSTONE DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION INC. Unit A 20/f Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Ave. Cor. Rufino St., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati WU, JINLIANG Mandarin Finance Manager 29.

Brief Job Description: The Mandarin Finance Manager will be a strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Finance Manager, excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

FRONTIER TOWER ASSOCIATES PHILIPPINES INC. Unit E-3rd Floor Active Fun Building, 9th Avenue 28th Street Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

30.

RAMU, SURESH Assistant Vice President Procurement & Supply Chain Brief Job Description: Act as point contract between the company and suppliers.

Basic Qualification: Graduate of Master of Business Administration. Salary Range: Php 500,000 and above

GLOBAL DIMSUM FOOD CORP. 7th/f, One Corporate Central Bldg., 768 Boni Avenue Cor. San Roque 28, Barangka Ilaya, City Of Mandaluyong CHAN KOK PIN Malaysian Sous Chef 31.

Brief Job Description: Directs food preparation and collaborates with the executive chef and make sure that the authenticity of the Timhowan cuisine is implemented in the Philippine branches of the company.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 2 years of work experience as a chef and have undergone training for Kitchen Operations. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

HJ SHIPBUILDING & CONSTRUCTION CO., LTD. Unit 5-3 5th Floor One/neo Building, 3rd Avenue Corner 26th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig KIM, SOOHYUN Assistant Engineering Manager 32.

Brief Job Description: Determines project schedule by studying the project plan an specification and calculating time requirement.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 15 years of work experience in engineering and construction industry. 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 DAI, JIAO Account Manager For Network Project 33.

Brief Job Description: Establish healthy cooperation mechanism with company partners in accordance to company’s strategy. Ensure the implementation and localization of business process.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Chinese-Mandarin and English languages. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

INSPIRINGPG INC. Unit 1708-t 17th Floor Sm Aura Office Tower, 26th Street Corner Mckinley Parkway, Bgc, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig HU, CHENPEI Mandarin Warehouse And Logistics Manager 34.

Brief Job Description: Strategically plan and manage logistics, warehouse, transportation and customer services.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Mandarin Warehouse and Logistics Manager. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

KNW TECHNOLOGY INC. 103 Equinox Plaza, Sierra Madre, Highway Hills, City Of Mandaluyong

35.

36.

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

COGNIZANT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS PHILIPPINES, INC. 2nd, 3rd, And 4th Floors, Science Hub Tower 4 Bldg., Mckinley Hill Cyberpark, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig

Basic Qualification: Any Science/Technical Diploma or Bachelor Degree.

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

Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: Experience in handling site equipment and fluent in Chinese and English languages.

Brief Job Description: Provide first resolution for EUC and Business Applications.

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

CONCENTRIX DAKSH SERVICES PHILIPPINES CORPORATION Ground To 4th Floor Building F, Up Ayala Technohub, U.p. Campus, Quezon City

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Experience in procurement management and fluent in Chinese and English languages.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION GUARIN LLANES, EUDALDO ANIBAL Sr. Systems Engineer

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

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

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

Brief Job Description: Support our financial consultants in providing excellent customer service to our clients.

METTA LINA Operations Analyst

Basic Qualification: College graduate. With previous work experience in a similar role. Fluent in Chinese-Mandarin and English languages.

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

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

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

Basic Qualification: Must be native Singaporean, fluent in English & Mandarin and knowledgeable in data visualizations, ETL processes and warehouse concepts.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

BAYER BUSINESS SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC 6th Floor Science Hub Tower 1, Campus Avenue Corner Turin Street, Mckinleyhill Cyberpark, Pinagsama, City Of Taguig

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

AVANTICE CORPORATION 19/f Pbcom Tower, Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

LIM JINGDENG ALLEN Client Advisory BI Manager

C&I MARKETING CORPORATION 4/f 6780 Bldg., 6780 Ayala Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

AMAZON OPERATION SERVICES PHILIPPINES INC. 4/f Unit 2c, One E-com Center Building Ocean Drive, Mall Of Asia Complex St., Barangay 76, Pasay City CAI, SHULAN Invest SPC - TSE [CHI]

13.

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Aboveaverage knowledge of VOIP, networking, routers and modems. With previous work experience in a related position.

ALPHA CENTURY CONSULTANCY INC. 15/f Tower 2 Rcbc Plaza, 6819 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati DU, WEN Mandarin Team Leader

ZUO, JUNWEI Client Delivery Executive

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

A-WON’S AUTO SUPPLY CORPORATION 215 West San Francisco St., California Village, San Bartolome, Quezon City

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

37.

38.

LE THE DOAN Payment Specialist Brief Job Description: Handling matters regarding payment processes. LE THI THUY DUNG Payment Specialist Brief Job Description: Handling matters regarding payment processes.

NGUYEN DINH KHANH Payment Specialist Brief Job Description: Handling matters regarding payment processes. NGUYEN HUU PHUONG TRANG Payment Specialist Brief Job Description: Handling matters regarding payment processes.

Basic Qualification: College degree in a related field. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: College degree in a related field. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: College degree in a related field. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999 Basic Qualification: College degree in related field. Salary Range: Php 60,000 - Php 89,999

BusinessMirror

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ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

LUFTHANSA SERVICES PHILIPPINES, INC. 8th Floor Aeon Center, Northgate Cyberzone, Alabang, City Of Muntinlupa YOO, AHYOUNG Customer Service Consultant 39.

Brief Job Description: Assist customer with all related services & customer inquiries (Inbound and outbound).

Basic Qualification: College graduate. Fluent in Korean and English languages. Highly customer service oriented & computer literate.

TRAN AI QUYNH Mandarin Customer Service Representative 40.

Brief Job Description: Ensure customer satisfaction and provide professional customer service report.

LIU, ZHANMING Assistant Supervisor 53.

54.

Basic Qualification: Able to speak Mandarin/ Chinese and English languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

MARCANO LEON, ALCALIDE JOSE Senior Specialist, OTC 41.

Brief Job Description: Suggest improvements and provides data for decision making.

55.

HYUN, SUKJUNG Korean Sales Support Specialist 42.

Brief Job Description: Helps troubleshoot problems with costumer’s accounts and other related issues; provide the sales team with data reports and sales guide; and work with sales manager to create and implement targeted sales strategies. KIM, JUNSUNG Korean Sales Support Specialist

43.

44.

45.

46.

47.

48.

49.

Basic Qualification: 2 years’ experience; and can speak and relate well especially to Korean nationals.

50.

Brief Job Description: Executive manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities and operations, also have to report the department’s progress to managing director.

56.

LIU, RUI Financial Consultant 57.

51.

Brief Job Description: To guide clients through all procedures required and responsible for furnishing clients with relevant information. LIU, CONGMIN Assistant Supervisor

52.

Brief Job Description: To guide clients through all procedures required and responsible for furnishing clients with relevant information.

Brief Job Description: To guide clients through all procedures required and responsible for furnishing clients with relevant information. WANG, TING International Consultant

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: 2 years’ experience; and can speak and relate well especially to Korean nationals.

ZHANG, TIANQI International Consultant

58.

59.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: 2 years’ experience; and can speak and relate well especially to Korean nationals. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: 2 years’ experience; and can speak and relate well especially to Korean nationals.

60.

CHUNLAHUN, KANJIMAT Customer Service Representative 61.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: 2 years’ experience; and can speak and relate well especially to Korean nationals.

Brief Job Description: To guide clients through all procedures required and responsible for furnishing clients with relevant information.

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

LAM, DUY KHANH Customer Service Representative 62.

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 LE VAN HANH Customer Service Representative Basic Qualification: 2 years’ experience; and can speak and relate well especially to Korean nationals.

63.

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 LE, TRONG TRI Customer Service Representative Basic Qualification: 2 years’ experience; and can speak and relate well especially to Korean nationals.

64.

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

Basic Qualification: College/bachelor degree with excellent communication skills, can work with minimal or without supervision and at least 1 year working experience.

MOLAEKU, KAMONPAN Customer Service Representative 65.

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

NGUYEN, THANH TRUNG Customer Service Representative 66.

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

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written.

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

PHAM, THI HUYEN TRAN Customer Service Representative 67.

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

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

PHAM, VAN BANG Customer Service Representative 68.

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

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written.

No.

69.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written.

LA THI LICH Chinese Speaking Business Development Associate 70.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written.

71.

72.

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

73.

Basic Qualification: College graduate/ level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/ level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English language.

74.

75.

76.

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

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

PHAN CONG QUY Chinese Speaking Program Designer 77.

Basic Qualification: College graduate/ level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

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

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

NORTH TIDE INTERNATIONAL TRADE INC. 2nd Floor Bachrach Bldg. Ii, Corner 23rd And Railroad Streets Zone 68, Barangay 653, Port Area, City Of Manila YAN, TING Customer Service Representative 78.

Brief Job Description: Serves customers by providing product and service information and resolving product and service problems. LI, XUAN Marketing Consultant

79.

Brief Job Description: Assists companies in creating and implementing the best possible strategies to reach their target audience. CHEN, SHANG-CHIH a.k.a. CHEN, PO-TSUN Purchasing Manager

80.

Brief Job Description: Studying the market to identify price trends and future availability of materials and goods; locating vendors; negotiating prices; preparing requisitions and purchase orders; and maintaining purchase records. KONG, XIAO Purchasing Manager

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/ level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English language.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees and other departments. NGUYEN DINH KHANH Chinese Speaking Program Designer

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/ level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English language.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees and other departments. TIAN, HONGSHENG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/ level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English language.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees and other departments. QIN, DONGLIANG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees and other departments. LUO, XIAOWEI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written.

Brief Job Description: Gathering invoices, statements, reports, personal details, documents and information from employees and other departments. CHIN KAM WEI Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written.

Brief Job Description: Identify and maintain new business opportunities and existing partners. BU, LINGGANG Chinese Speaking Data Entry Clerk

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written.

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

NEO INCORPORATED North Tower Centrum Bldg., Aseana Avenue, Entertainment City, Baclaran, City Of Parañaque

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. Excellent communication skills verbal or written.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION SHI, QINGHUA Customer Service Representative

MOA CLOUDZONE CORP. 4th-11th Flr. Nexgen Tower, C4 Rd. Edsa Ext., Barangay 76, Pasay City

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: 2 years’ experience; and can speak and relate well especially to Korean nationals.

Brief Job Description: To guide clients through all procedures required and responsible for furnishing clients with relevant information.

ZHENG, GUOQIANG International Consultant

MCP BUSINESS CONSULTANCY INC. 207b 2nd Floor, 409 A. Soriano Ave., Barangay 656, Intramuros, City Of Manila LIU, JUN Assistant Consultant

Brief Job Description: To guide clients through all procedures required and responsible for furnishing clients with relevant information.

MCM MODERN CHICKEN MANILA HOLDINGS CORPORATION U-1101, Antel Seaview Towers Bldg., Roxas Blvd. St., Barangay 76, Pasay City

PARK, HAEYOUNG Executive Manager

Brief Job Description: To guide clients through all procedures required and responsible for furnishing clients with relevant information. YU, CAN Assistant Supervisor

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

MAIMAI INFO TECH. INC. 9/f Double Dragon Plaza Tower 3 Bldg., Macapagal Ave. St. Zone 10 District 1, Barangay 76, Pasay City

Brief Job Description: To guide clients through all procedures required and responsible for furnishing clients with relevant information. SUN, YUE Assistant Supervisor

MAERSK GLOBAL SERVICE CENTRES (PHILIPPINES) LTD. Levels 6-8 North Wing, Estancia Offices, Capitol Commons, Meralco Ave., Oranbo, City Of Pasig Basic Qualification: Manage technical issues, investigates, raised and perform root cause analysis technical incidents.

Brief Job Description: To guide clients through all procedures required and responsible for furnishing clients with relevant information. ROHIT Assistant Supervisor

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

LUO DA TRADING CORPORATION Unit No. 403-p 4/f Five E-com Center Bldg., Harbour Drive St. Moa Complex Subd., Zone 10, District 1, Barangay 76, Pasay City

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

81.

Basic Qualification: College graduate, at least 1-year work experience, and good communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate, at least 1-year work experience, and good communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate, at least 1-year work experience, and good communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate, at least 1-year work experience, and good communication skills. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

ONE BORDERLINE CREATIVES INC. Unit 11-ij3, 11/f Burgundy Corporate Tower, 252 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Pio Del Pilar, City Of Makati CHEN, JUNHUI Mandarin Operations Specialist

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

Brief Job Description: Maintain accurate sales record.

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

JIAN, JING Mandarin Operations Specialist

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

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

Brief Job Description: Maintain accurate sales record.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/ level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English language.

RAO, SONGHUA Mandarin Operations Specialist

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

Brief Job Description: Maintain accurate sales record.

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

YE, JIASHENG Mandarin Operations Specialist

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

Brief Job Description: Maintain accurate sales record.

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

ZHANG, RONGQIN Mandarin Operations Specialist

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

Brief Job Description: Maintain accurate sales record.

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

Basic Qualification: College graduate/ level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English language.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate/ level, preferably with customer service or sales experience, and fluent in Mandarin and basic English language. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

82.

83.

84.

85.

86.

www.businessmirror.com.ph • Editor: Angel R. Calso

TheWorld BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 A11

Hamas frees two Israeli women as US advises delaying ground war to allow talks on captives By Najib Jobain, Samy Magdy & Joseph Krauss

The Associated Press

AFAH, Gaza Strip—Hamas on Monday released two elderly Israeli women held hostage in Gaza as the United States expressed increasing concern that the escalating Israel-Hamas war will spark a wider conflict in the region, including attacks on American troops.

The death toll in Gaza rose rapidly as Israel ramped up airstrikes that flattened buildings in what it said was preparation for an eventual ground assault. The United States advised Israel to delay the expected invasion to allow time to negotiate the release of more hostages taken by Hamas during its brutal incursion two weeks ago. A third small aid convoy from Egypt entered Gaza, where the population of 2.3 million has been running out of food, water and medicine under Israel’s sealed border. With Israel still barring entry of fuel, the United Nations said its distribution of aid would grind to a halt within days when it can no longer fuel trucks inside Gaza. Hospitals flooded by a constant stream of wounded are struggling to keep generators running to power lifesaving medical equipment and incubators for premature babies. T h e t w o f r e e d ho s t a g e s , 85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz and 79-year-old Nurit Cooper, were taken out of Gaza at the Rafah crossing into Egypt, where they were put into ambulances, according to footage shown on Egyptian TV. The two women, along with their husbands, were snatched from their homes in the kibbutz of Nir Oz near the Gaza border during Hamas’ October 7 rampage into southern Israeli communities. Their husbands, ages 83 and 84, were not released. “While I cannot put into words the relief that she is now safe, I will

remain focused on securing the release of my father and all those— some 200 innocent people—who remain hostages in Gaza,” Lifshitz’ daughter, Sharone Lifschitz, said in a statement. Lifschitz, an artist and academic in London who uses a different spelling for her name, told reporters last week that her parents were peace activists, and her father would drive to the Gaza border to take Palestinians to east Jerusalem for medical treatment. Kindness, she said last week, could somehow save them. “I grew up, you know, with all these Holocaust stories about how all my uncles’ lives were saved because” of acts of kindness, she said. “Do I want that to be the story here?” she asked. “Yeah.” Hamas apparently received nothing in exchange for the release of the two hostages, who were freed days after an America n woma n a nd her teenage daughter were also freed. Hamas and other militants in Gaza are believed to have taken roughly 220 people, including an unconfirmed number of foreigners and dual citizens. On Monday, Hamas released a video showing the handover of the two elderly hostages, with militants giving drinks and snacks to the dazed but composed women, and holding their hands as they are walked to Red Cross officials. Just before the video ends, Lifshitz reaches back to shake one

THIS image taken from video released by Al Qassam brigades on its Telegram channel, shows Yocheved Lifshitz, 85, center, and Nurit Cooper, 79, being escorted by Hamas as they are released to the Red Cross in an unknown location on Monday, October 23, 2023. AL QASSAM BRIGADES VIA AP

militant’s hand. Around the same time, Israel’s internal security service, Shin Bet, released a recording showing a series of prisoners from the Hamas attack—most in clean prison uniforms, but one in a bloody tshirt and at least one wincing in pain—sitting handcuffed in drab offices talking about the October 7 attack. The men said they were under orders to kill young men, and kidnap women, children and the elderly, and that they’d been promised financial rewards. The videos were both clearly intended to shape the war’s narrative—with Israel focusing on Hamas’ brutality, and Hamas trying to show a humane side. The Associated Press could not independently verify either video, and both the hostages and the prisoners could have been acting under duress. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas. Iranian-backed fighters around the region are warning of possible escalation, including the targeting of US forces deployed in the Mideast, if a ground offensive is launched in Gaza. The US has told Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon and other groups not to join the fight. Israel and Hezbollah have traded fire almost daily across the Israel-Leba-

non border, and Israeli warplanes have struck targets in the occupied West Bank, Syria and Lebanon in recent days. Nat ion a l Sec u r it y Cou nc i l spokesman John Kirby said there has been an uptick in rocket and drone attacks by Iranian-backed militias on US troops in Iraq and Syria, and the US was “deeply concerned about the possibility for any significant escalation” in the coming days. He said US officials were having “active conversations” with Israeli counterparts about the potential ramifications of escalated military action. The US advised Israeli officials that delaying a ground offensive would give Washington more time to work with regional mediators on the release of more hostages, according to a US official. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because they were authorized to reveal sensitive negotiations. Israeli tanks and ground forces have been massed at the Gaza border, and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told troops there Monday to keep preparing for an offensive “because it will come.” He said it will be a combined offensive from air, land and sea, but he did not give a time frame.

A ground offensive is likely to dramatically increase casualties in what is already the deadliest by far of five wars fought between Israel and Hamas since the militant group took power in Gaza in 2007. More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed—mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack. At least 222 people were captured and dragged back to Gaza, including foreigners, the military said Monday, updating a previous figure. More than 5,000 Palestinians, including some 2,000 minors and around 1,100 women, have been killed, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said Monday. That includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week. The toll has climbed rapidly in recent days, with the ministry reporting 436 additional deaths in just the last 24 hours. Israel said its forces had struck over 400 militant targets over the last day, killing several Hamas commanders and dozens of fighters preparing to fire rockets into Israel. The official Palestinian news agency WAFA said many residential buildings had been hit in the overnight Israeli airstrikes, and many people had been killed or in-

jured. Rescuers were still searching the rubble for survivors. Israel says it does not target civilians, and that Palestinian militants have fired over 7,000 rockets at Israel since the start of the war. But inside Gaza, the civilian death toll continued to mount. Fifteen members of the same family were among at least 33 Palestinians buried Monday in a shallow, sandy mass grave at a Gaza hospital after being killed in Israeli airstrikes. The bodies were laid to rest side by side in the courtyard of al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah. Men discussed where to fit the shrouded corpse of a small child. “Bring them all,” a gravedigger called out. Israel continued to carry out out limited ground forays into Gaza. On Monday, the Palestinian Red Crescent said 20 trucks entered Gaza carrying food, water, medicine and medical supplies through the Rafah crossing with Egypt, the only way into Gaza not controlled by Israel. It was the third delivery in as many days, each around the same size. The aid coming in so far is “a drop in the ocean” compared with the needs of the population, said Thomas White, the Gaza director of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA. At least 1.4 million Palestinians in Gaza have f led their homes, and nearly 580,000 of them are sheltering in UN-run schools and shelters, the UN said Monday. No aid will be distributed in Gaza City and other parts of the north, where hundreds of thousands of people remain. Gaza City’s main al-Shifa Hospital, with a normal capacity of 700 patients, is currently overwhelmed with 5,000 patients, and around 45,000 displaced people are gathered in and around its grounds for shelter, the UN said.

Magdy reported from Cairo and Krauss from Jerusalem. Associated Press writers Wafaa Shurafa in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip, Aamer Madhani in Washington, Amy Teibel in Jerusalem, Brian Melley in London, contributed to this report.

Pentagon rushes defenses to Middle East as Israel’s ground assault in Gaza looms By Tara Copp & Aamer Madhani The Associated Press

A S H I N G T O N —T h e Pentagon has sent military advisers, including a Marine Corps general versed in urban warfare, to Israel to aid in its war planning and is speeding multiple sophisticated air defense systems to the Middle East days ahead of an anticipated ground assault into Gaza. One of the officers leading the assistance is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, according to a US official who was not authorized to discuss Glynn’s role and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Glynn will also be advising on how to mitigate civilian casualties in urban warfare, the official said. Israel is preparing a large-scale ground operation in an environment in which Hamas militants have had years to prepare tunnel networks and set traps throughout northern Gaza’s dense urban

blocks. Glynn and the other military officers who are advising Israel “have experience that is appropriate to the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said Monday. The advisers will not be engaged in the fighting, the unidentified US official said. The military team is one of many fast-moving pieces the Pentagon is getting in place to try and prevent the already intense conflict between Israel and Hamas from becoming a wider war. It also is trying to protect US personnel, who in the last few days have come under repeated attacks that the Pentagon has said were likely endorsed by Iran. Kirby said Iran was “in some cases actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good, or for that of Iran. We know that Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here. But we’re not going to allow them to do that.” The White House said President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday to update

THIS image provided by the US Marine Corps shows US Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn speaking during the Wounded Warrior Regiment change of command at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle, Va., July 14, 2023. The Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to aid in its war planning and is speeding multiple sophisticated air defense systems to the Middle East days ahead of an anticipated ground assault into Gaza. One of the officers leading the assistance is Glynn, who previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, according to a US official who was not authorized to discuss Glynn’s role and spoke on the condition of anonymity. CPL. MITCHELL JOHNSON/US MARINE CORPS VIA AP

him on “US support for Israel and ongoing efforts at regional deterrence, to include new US military deployments.” On Monday, the US military garrison at an-Tanf, Syria, came under attack again, this time by two drones. The drones were shot

down and no injuries were reported. It was the latest episode of more than a half-dozen times in the last week that US military locations in the Middle East had come under rocket or drone attack since a deadly blast at a Gaza hospital. Last Thursday the destroyer

USS Carney shot down four landattack cruise missiles launched from Yemen that the Pentagon has said were potentially headed toward Israel. In response, over the weekend the Pentagon announced it was sending multiple Patriot missile defense system battalions and a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system to the Middle East, as well as repositioning the Eisenhower strike group to the US Central Command area of responsibility. The ship had previously been en route to the Eastern Mediterranean. The shift means that the Navy will have a carrier strike group off the shore of Israel—the Ford carrier strike group—and another, the Eisenhower, potentially maneuvered to defend US forces and Israel from the Red Sea or the Gulf of Oman. “We’re going to continue to do what we need to do to protect and safeguard our forces and take all necessary measures,” Ryder said. “No one wants to see a wider regional conflict. But we will not hesitate to protect our forces.” The US has also advised Israeli

officials to consider a delay in any ground assault, saying it would give more time to allow the US to work with its regional partners to release more hostages, according to a US official familiar with Biden administration thinking on the matter. The official, who requested anonymity to discuss the private discussions, said it was unclear how much the argument will “move the needle” on Israeli thinking. The official noted that with the help of Qatar mediating with Hamas, the US was able to win the release of two captives, Judith and Natalie Raanan. The process that led to their release—just two of more than 200 people in Israel who were taken hostage in the Oct. 7 attacks—started soon after the Hamas operation. The official noted arranging for the release of the Raanans took longer to come together than many people realized. Asked during a brief exchange with reporters at the White House on Monday if the US would be supportive of a ceasefire-for-hostage deal, Biden replied, “We should have those hostages released and then we can talk.”

BusinessMirror

A10 A6 Wednesday, October 25, 2023

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS No.

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

No.

PHILIPPINE FULL DEGREE COMMUNICATIONS CORP. 18/f Yuchengco Tower 1, Rcbc Plaza, 6819 Ayala Ave., Bel-air, City Of Makati

87.

SHAO, CHUANQI Mandarin Operations Specialist

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

Brief Job Description: Maintain accurate sales record.

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

MA, DACHUN Recruitment Associate (Chinese Speaking) 101.

SEAGULL-WORLD INC. 24/f Philamlife Tower, 8767 Paseo De Roxas, Bel-air, City Of Makati DENG, AOYANG Mandarin Speaking Technical Support 88.

Brief Job Description: Monitoring and maintaining computer systems and networks.

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

LI, HAIQUAN Mandarin Web Developer 89.

Brief Job Description: Create website layout/user interface by using standard HTML/CSS practices. Integrate data from various back-end services and databases. WANG, MAOMING Mandarin Web Developer

90.

Brief Job Description: Create website layout/user interface by using standard HTML/CSS practices. Integrate data from various back-end services and databases.

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

91.

Brief Job Description: Provide day-to-day leadership, project management, partnership development and operational oversight.

Basic Qualification: Graduate of any bachelor’s degree, and fluent in Spanish language both verbal and written.

GAO, QIYU Mandarin Team Leader 103.

104.

105.

92.

106.

CHAKAROV, IVAN Senior Vice President For Plant Operations 93.

Brief Job Description: Responsible for the control and supervision of the overall plant operations. Collaborate with other departments to create coordinated plans for business growth.

108.

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

TREVI FOUNDATIONS PHILIPPINES INC. U-2301 88 Corporate Center, 141 Valero Cor. Sedeno Sts., Bel-air, City Of Makati Basic Qualification: College graduate. With 15 years of work experience in supply chain management with executive role in the construction industry. Salary Range: Php 150,000 - Php 499,999

109.

110.

111.

VERTEX DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 1439 Adriatico Cor. Sta. Monica St., 072, Barangay 669, Ermita, City Of Manila ZHANG, YONGHONG Chinese IT Specialist 94.

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

MAI THI AN IT Specialist 95.

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

NGUYEN THE TRUNG IT Specialist 96.

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

NGUYEN THI KIM THUY IT Specialist 97.

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

NGUYEN THI TUONG VI IT Specialist 98.

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

NGUYEN XUAN LOC IT Specialist 99.

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

TSAN A MUI IT Specialist 100.

Brief Job Description: Maintain the operations of electronic gaming devices.

Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintaining gaming devices, and fluent in Mandarin and English languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintaining gaming devices, and fluent in Mandarin and English languages.

112.

113.

114.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintaining gaming devices, and fluent in Mandarin and English languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintaining gaming devices, and fluent in Mandarin and English languages.

115.

116.

117.

118.

119.

120.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate with experience in maintaining gaming devices, and fluent in Mandarin and English languages.

121.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 122.

VISSIONARIES INC. 20/f Salcedo Towers, 169 H.v. Dela Costa St., Bel-air, City Of Makati 15/f Salcedo Towers, 169 H.v. Dela Costa St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 6 months of work experience in a similar role/industry.

No.

123.

Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 Basic Qualification: College graduate. With at least 6 months of work experience in a related position. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

Brief Job Description: Monitoring and maintaining computer systems and networks.

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

124.

125.

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

VALENTINO Bilingual Support Service Brief Job Description: Provide support services and resolves the issues. CHEN, JINZHI Chinese Language - Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results. CHANG, KUANG-HSIN Chinese Language - Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

126.

127.

128.

129.

130.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Chinese language.

Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

131.

132.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Chinese language.

LIN, CHING-HUNG Chinese Language - Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results. LIN, KE-YEN Chinese Language - Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results. LO, CHIAO-LI a.k.a. JOLLY WANG GALLARDO Chinese Language - Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results. SUN, SHUAIPENG Chinese Language - Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results. LI, YUN-CI Chinese Language Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results. XU, NING Chinese Language Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

ZHAI, LIJIA Chinese Language Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

CHANG, ZHI-HAO Chinese Language Data Analyst Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

133.

134.

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Chinese language. 135.

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

136.

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

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

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

Brief Job Description: Conduct research on design and development.

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

Brief Job Description: Conduct research on design and development.

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

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

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

Brief Job Description: Provide support services and resolves the issues.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in bilingual languages. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999

XAVIER SCHOOL, INC. (ALSO KNOWN AS KUANG CHI SCHOOL) #64, Xavier St., Greenhills, City Of San Juan WEI, QINGKAI Chinese Language Tutor 137.

Brief Job Description: Assist the Local Chinese teacher in terms of preparation and implementation of the Chinese curriculum.

ZHOU, LISHA Chinese Language Tutor 138.

Brief Job Description: Assist the Local Chinese teacher in terms of preparation and implementation of the Chinese curriculum.

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

XSPACE SERVICE OFFICE INC. U-a&b 20/f Rufino Pacific Tower, 6784 Ayala Ave., San Lorenzo, City Of Makati

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

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

TAT VI THANH Vietnamese Language Support Service

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

Basic Qualification: Can speak Vietnamese language.

NGUYEN TRAN PHUONG HONG Vietnamese Language Research Analyst

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Chinese language.

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

HA TUYET MI Vietnamese Language Research Analyst

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

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Chinese language.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Vietnamese language.

GIANG HAI DAO Vietnamese Language Research Analyst

CHEN, SI-HUA Chinese Language - Data Analyst

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

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

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

Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Indonesian language.

Brief Job Description: Conduct research on design and development.

Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Chinese language.

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

DAN HUU DIEN Vietnamese Language Research Analyst

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

LIN, CHIEN-MING Chinese Language - Data Analyst

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Indonesian language.

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

CHEN, LEI Chinese Language - Data Analyst

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

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

HA KIM LINH Vietnamese Language Research Analyst

Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

Basic Qualification: Excellent in Indonesian language.

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

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

KANG, QIAOYUN Chinese Language - Data Analyst

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

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

Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

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

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Chinese language.

Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

Brief Job Description: Conduct research on design and development.

Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

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

YAO, JIAQI Chinese Language Data Analyst

Basic Qualification: Can speak Mandarin.

HU, MIN Chinese Language - Data Analyst

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Chinese language.

HU, DI Chinese Language Data Analyst

CHEN, CHIA-MING Chinese Language - Data Analyst

Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

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

DUONG HUNG CUONG Vietnamese Language Research Analyst

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

Brief Job Description: Provide ongoing reports and optimize results.

CHENH SENH KIN Vietnamese Language Research Analyst

Basic Qualification: Excellent in bilingual languages.

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

Basic Qualification: Proficient in Chinese language.

CONG, LIPING Chinese Language Data Analyst

SURIADI TSAI Indonesian Language Research Analyst

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

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

RIVA VINOLYA Indonesian Language Research Analyst

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

ALEX GUSNAIDY Indonesian Language Research Analyst

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

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

107. Basic Qualification: Japanese language advance level, written and verbal communications skills.

Brief Job Description: Monitoring and maintaining computer systems and networks. YU, KAI Mandarin Technical Support Specialist

TRANSCOM WORLDWIDE (PHILIPPINES), INC. Silver City 5, Office Lane, Ortigas East, Ugong, City Of Pasig

Brief Job Description: Content moderator will identify and address ambiguous situations for the client’s platform quality team to resolve and over communicate when issues bugs arise. Plus, identify workflow improvements. Content moderator will learn complex policies quickly with curiosity and openness and should be comparable with viewing disturbing content and discussing difficult subjects clearly and calmly.

Brief Job Description: Maintain and drive program knowledge for self and team. FANG, JIN Mandarin Technical Support

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

SUGAWARA, KENYA Bilingual Content Moderator (Japanese)

Brief Job Description: Assigned to the company for scheduling interviews, changing the calendar as needed, returning phone calls and checking mails.

ESTABLISHMENT / ADDRESS

WIKITECH SERVICES INC. 10/f Alphaland Corporate Tower, 7232 Ayala Avenue Ext. Corner Malugay St., Bel-air, City Of Makati

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

TEDAGUA PHILIPPINES, INC. Penthouse 312 Marajo Tower 26th Street Corner 4th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Fort Bonifacio, City Of Taguig LUCAS PAREDES, JOSE LUIS Account Manager

102.

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

Brief Job Description: Assigned to the company’s branch office for scheduling interviews, changing the calendar as needed, returning phone calls, and checking mails. LIM WENG SOON Recruitment Associate (Malaysian Speaking)

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

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

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL , POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

www.businessmirror.com.ph

LIU, QINGYUAN Marketing Manager 139.

Brief Job Description: The Marketing Manager will be a strategist and a leader able to steer the company to the most profitable direction while also implementing its vision, mission and long term goals.

Basic Qualification: Proven experience as Marketing Manager, familiarity, knowledge and awareness on machinery and heavy equipment used by company. Demonstrable experience in developing strategic business plan. Salary Range: Php 30,000 - Php 59,999 *Date Generated: Oct 24, 2023

In the ad material of Notice of Filing of Application for Alien Employment Permits published on October 24, 2023, the name WIN MYINTH THAN under the company OCEAN MIGHT SUPPORT MANAGEMENT INC., should have been read as WIN MYINT THAN 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.

A12

BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 Republic of the Philippines

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

K & K MOLDING, INC.

MIYAKAWA, HIROBUMI

Basic Qualification:

Gregorio H. Del Pilar Street, Lima Technology Center, Santiago, Malvar, Batangas

Parts Engineering General Manager

Must have at least 10 years managerial experience in Japanese manufacturing company and must be Engineering course graduate

October 25, 2023 Notice is hereby given that the following companies/employers have filed with this Regional Office application/s for Alien Employment Permit/s:

ESTABLISHMENT

ADVANCE ABILITY ASSISTANCE TRAINING CENTER, INC. Unit 215, 2nd Floor, Crosstown Mall, 8005 National Road, Pulong Santa Cruz, City of Santa Rosa, Laguna

ANOC99 CORPORATION POGO 1 Building, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

NAME OF FOREIGN NATIONAL, POSITION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATION AND SALARY RANGE

GEN, HIROYUKI

Basic Qualification:

Technical Adviser for Language and Cultural Development

Must have Bachelor’s degree in any course.

Brief Job Description:

Salary Range:

Brief Job Description:

Provide guidance and coaching to the Local Japanese Language Instructor on a regular basis and discuss the curriculum CHEN, ZIYOU

Php30,000 Php59,99

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 3

ANOC99 CORPORATION

XIAN, YAOHUA

POGO 1 Building, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 4

ANOC99 CORPORATION

YANG, LIN

POGO 1 Building, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 5

ANOC99 CORPORATION

ZHANG, QINGHUA

POGO 1 Building, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 6

ANOC99 CORPORATION POGO 1 Building, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

CANDERA Indonesian Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 7

ANOC99 CORPORATION

HOO CHUN KEAT

POGO 1 Building, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Malaysian Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 8

ANOC99 CORPORATION

PHAM VAN TUAN

POGO 1 Building, Covelandia Road, Pulvorista, Kawit, Cavite

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 9

GAIN CITY SOLUTION PHILIPPINES CORPORATION 1025, ME Toclong, Toclong, Kawit, Cavite

ZHANG, JUNZHI Project Manager

Brief Job Description: Assume all responsibility and accountability for the day-to-day operations

Basic Qualification:

Salary Range:

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

GAIN CITY SOLUTION PHILIPPINES CORPORATION 1025, ME Toclong, Toclong, Kawit, Cavite

WANG, JIANFENG Project Supervisor

Brief Job Description: Supervise and stimulate procurement activities as required ensuring on time delivery of components and equipment

CHEN, ZHENGYIN Chinese Customer Service Representative

HE, JING Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 14

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

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

LIU, PENG Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 15

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

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

LIU, YANG Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 16

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

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

LUO, WEIJIAN Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 17

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Indonesian language

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

SHI, JUNYAO Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 18

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Malaysian language

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

WU, WEIGANG Chinese Customer Service Representative

Brief Job Description: Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification: Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Vietnamese language

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries 19

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

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification: Must have Bachelor’s degree in Project Management and able to manage complex project and can speak Chinese Mandarin and English language.

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

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification: Must have experience in Leadership and supervisory skills and can speak English and Chinese Language

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

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

Able to speak, read and write Chinese language

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

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

Taiwanese It Specialist

Fluent in Mandarin and English language and with experience in BPO industry

Brief Job Description: Handle customer complaints, provide appropriate solutions and alternatives within the limits.

Salary Range:

LAU CAM XIN

Basic Qualification:

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Vietnamese language

Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Php30,000 Php59,999 Basic Qualification:

HU, BO-SHENG

Brief Job Description: Salary Range:

Brief Job Description: Leads product development activities and initiate quality, cost and delivery improvements in the process of molds/tooling

NOTICE OF FILING OF APPLICATION/S FOR ALIEN EMPLOYMENT PERMIT/S (AEP/S)

NO.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Php30,000 Php59,999

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

LE THE VIET

Basic Qualification:

Vietnamese Customer Service Representative

Able to speak, read and write Chinese and Vietnamese language

Brief Job Description: Manage incoming calls and customer service inquiries

Salary Range: Php30,000 Php59,999

TheWorld

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 A13

Growing gang violence is devastating Haitians, with major crime at a new high, UN envoy says By Edith M. Lederer The Associated Press

N I T E D N AT I O N S — Growing gang violence in Haiti is devastating the lives of its people, with major crimes rising to a new high, the UN special envoy for the conflict-wracked Caribbean nations said Monday. Maria Isabel Salvador told the UN Security Council that every day sees gangs engaging in killings, sexual violence including collective rapes and mutilation, and kidnapping. She pointed to last week’s incident in which gang members dressed as police officers kidnapped the secretary general of the High Transitional Council, which is responsible for ensuring that long-delayed elections are held. Salvador said the security crisis is even more complex because vigilante groups that have taken to fighting the gangs are still active. Between April 24 and Septepter 30, she said, the UN political mission “registered the lynching of at least 395 alleged gang members across all 10 departments of Haiti by the so called `Bwa Kale’ vigilante movement.” Catherine Russell, head of the UN children’s agency UNICEF, echoed Salvador, telling the council: “The crisis in Haiti grows worse by the day.” A n est i m ate d 2 m i l l ion people, including 1.6 million

women and children, live in areas under gang control, she said, and children are getting killed and injured in crossfire, some on the way to school. “Others are being forcibly recruited or they are joining armed groups out of sheer desperation,” Russell said. She said half of Haiti’s population, including 3 million children, need aid—and half of those in need aren’t getting it because of insecurity and a lack of funding. So far, this year, she said, the UN has received barely 25 percent of the $720 million it needs for humanitarian needs in the country. Since 2022, Russell said, UNICEF has seen “an unprecedented 30 percent increase in the number of Haitian children suffering from severe wasting”—to more than 115,000. Severe wasting is the most lethal type of malnutrition, in which food is so lacking that a child’s immune system is compromised, according to UNICEF. “The malnutrition crisis coincides with an ongoing cholera outbreak—in which nearly half of the more than suspected cases are children under 14,” Russell added. Salvador stressed “the enormous significance” of the Security Council’s October 2 approval of a resolution authorizing a multinational force led by Kenya to deploy in Haiti to help combat gangs. Kenya’s Cabinet gave its approval October 13, but its

Parliament still must sign off. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in a report to the council circulated Monday welcomed Kenya’s offer and thanked Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas and Jamaica for publicly committing to contr ibut ing personnel to t he mission. T h e c o u n c i l ’s a p p r o v a l came nearly a year after Haiti’s prime minister called for t he immed iate deploy ment of an armed force, in hopes it could quell gang violence and restore security so Haiti can hold elections. Haiti lost its last democratically elected institution in January, when the terms of 10 remaining senators expired, leaving not a single lawmaker in the House or Senate. Since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, Prime Minister Ariel Henry has been governing with the backing of the international community. Salvador told the council she continues to engage with a wide range of Haitians, “encouraging their full commitment to national dialogue efforts to get onto a path to elections to fully re-establish democratic institutions and the rule of law.” But, she said, “significant differences persist, all of which are critical to placing Haiti on a clear path to elections,” adding that “the efforts towards elections are not moving at a desired pace.”

Turkey’s president submits protocol for Sweden’s admission into Nato to parliament for ratification By Suzan Fraser

The Associated Press

NKARA, Turkey—Turkish P resident R ecep Tayyip Erdogan has submitted a protocol for Sweden’s admission into Nato to Turkey’s parliament for ratification, his office said Monday, bringing the Nordic country a step closer to membership in the military alliance. Erdogan had been delaying ratification of Sweden’s membership, accusing Stockholm of being too soft on Kurdish militants and other groups his country considers to be security threats. Turkey also was angered by a series of Quranburning protests in Sweden. All 31 Nato allies must endorse Sweden’s membership. Turkey and Hungary are the only two allies that have yet to ratify it. A brief statement from the presidential communications directorate said Erdogan had signed the protocol on Sweden’s Nato accession, which was then submitted to the Turkish Grand National Assembly. It was not known when

Sweden’s membership would come to the f loor. Sweden welcomed the move. “Glad to hear that Turkish President Erdoğan has now handed over the ratification documents to the Turkish Parliament,” Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. “Now it remains for Parliament to deal with the issue. We look forward to becoming a member of Nato.” Sweden and its neighbor Finland abandoned decades of military non-alignment and sought protection under Nato’s security umbrella after President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian troops to invade Ukraine in February 2022. Finland joined the military alliance in April after Turkey lifted its objections to its membership, saying Helsinki had taken steps to address Ankara’s security concerns. Nato S e c re t a r y G e ne r a l Jens Stoltenberg , who had u r g e d Tu r k e y e a r l i e r t h i s month to quickly ratify Sweden’s membership, also hailed the moves Monday. “I look forward to a speedy vote to ratify, and to welcoming

Kremlin foe Alexei Navalny refuses to leave his cell and skips court hearing as a protest

OSCOW — Imprisoned Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny on Monday refused to leave his cell and skipped a court hearing, protesting after prison officials took away all of his writing supplies, his allies said. Navalny, who is serving a 19-year prison term, was due to participate via video link in a court hearing on one of many lawsuits he had filed against his prison. His ally Ivan Zhdanov said the politician refused to leave his cell after prison officials took away all of his writing supplies. After that, “security operatives in

helmets entered the cell and, using force, dragged him to the investigator,” Zhdanov said, as the politician was also expected to attend unspecified “investigative procedures.” He didn’t clarify why Navalny’s supplies were taken away and didn’t say whether he was then returned to his cell. Russia’s independent news site Mediazona reported that after Navalny’s refusal to appear, the court hearing was adjourned until November 2. Navalny is President Vladimir Putin’s fiercest foe, campaigning against official

Sweden as a full Nato ally very soon,” he said in a statement sent to The Associated Press. “As I told President Erdogan when we spoke on the weekend, this will make the whole Alliance stronger and more secure.” Erdogan had dropped his opposition to Sweden’s membership at a Nato summit in Lithuania’s capital in July, but still delayed sending the protocol to parliament for ratification. Turkey lifted its opposition after US President Joe Biden’s ad m i n ist rat ion sig n a led it would let Turkey buy 40 new F-16 fighter jets and modernization kits from the United States. Ankara also received assurances from Sweden that it would help revive Turkey’s own quest to join the European Union. Under the deal, Nato as an organization agreed to address Turkey’s concerns about terrorism. Stoltenberg said he had appointed an assistant secretary general to serve as his special coordiNnator for counter-terrorism. Jan M. Olsen in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Lorne Cook in Brussels contributed to this report.

corruption and organizing major antiKremlin protests. He was arrested in 2021, after he returned to Moscow from Germany where he had recuperated from nerve agent poisoning that he blamed on the Kremlin. He has since been handed three prison terms, most recently on charges of extremism, and has faced unrelenting pressure, including months in solitary confinement after being accused of various minor infractions. Navalny, who is currently held in a special punitive facility in Penal Colony No. 6 in the Vladimir region east of Moscow, is due to be transferred to a “special security” penal colony, a facility with the highest security level in the Russian penitentiary system. AP

A14 Wednesday, October 25, 2023 • Editor: Angel R. Calso

Opinion BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

editorial

Farmers, fishers lost trillions to disasters

armers and fishers—two of the poorest basic sectors in the Philippines—have incurred more than a trillion pesos in losses due to typhoons and other disasters. That is according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, which recently published a report that estimated the impact of disasters on agriculture. (See, “Disasters cost farm sector $23-billion damage in 30 years–FAO,” in the BusinessMirror, October 17, 2023).

The report, titled “The Impact of Disasters on Agriculture and Food Security 2023,” said damages caused by typhoons and other disasters in the past three decades reached at least $23 billion or P1.26 trillion using the current exchange rate. FAO looked at the impact of 565 disasters that struck the Philippines since 1990. Despite this, there were “none or very few figures” reported for the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. This means that the final tally on the impact of disasters on agriculture production could have been much higher if data on those sectors were available. The lack of comprehensive data on the impact of typhoons and disasters on the fisheries and aquaculture sectors is lamentable as coastal communities, including fishers, are most vulnerable to coastal flooding and coastal erosion. Measuring the extent of the damage inflicted by these disasters would allow policymakers to craft suitable interventions that would allow affected fishers to strongly bounce back from the horrors caused by strong typhoons. The report also noted that 85 percent of the sources of the country’s production are susceptible to disasters, and 50 percent of the country’s territory is considered economically at risk. Most of the damages included in the report focused on those related to crops and losses incurred by farmers. And this comes as no surprise for the Philippines as its rice sector usually bore the brunt of strong typhoons and erratic weather patterns. Unfortunately for a country like the Philippines, which has remained as a net food importer, FAO warned that disaster events have increased from 100 per year in the 1970s to around 400 events per year worldwide in the past 20 years. Aside from this, disaster events are becoming more intense and complex and their impact is expected to worsen. These disaster events threaten some of the progress made by the Philippines in the past to increase farm productivity and raise food output despite the meager resources it allocates for the sector. It would do well for our policymakers to heed FAO’s prescription to immediately transform the agrifood systems to minimize the threats posed by typhoons, droughts, and even transboundary animal diseases like the African swine fever. FAO said governments must implement a program that will make it a norm for farmers and other stakeholders to incorporate disaster risk management into agricultural practices and policies. It said this must be done if only to prevent natural disasters and other disruptions to agricultural production from robbing farmers and fishers of trillions of pesos in potential income. Since 2005

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Beyond the persistent revamp rumors LITO GAGNI

HERE are rumors galore and a while back, somebody shared with me the rumor that Rep. Ralph Recto, veteran lawmaker and former Neda chief, is to replace Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno in the Department of Finance. There’s more to the rumor: Recto is now reportedly doing the rounds of recruiting his team. In the process, there is anxiety in the department that results in a rather confusing setup—impairing its focus and, sad to say, perhaps causing some paralysis, in a crucial agency whose avowed main thrust is the economic well-being of the nation.

But wait: there’s more. Another persistent rumor that has been making the rounds says businessman Frederick Go is bound be the head honcho of the Department of Trade and Industry, to replace Sec. Alfredo Pascual; while another tags Vince Dizon to take the helm of the Department of Transportation that is now headed by the mild-mannered, widely respected Secretary Jaime Bautista. The former two are lead entities in the economic team. The latter, well, essential to the economy. Sources say the rumors have been going around for quite some time already, and this is what’s trouble-

some: regardless of the personalities involved, allowing such sense of uncertainty and anxiety to fester is unhealthy for the country now beset by so many problems. With economic issues hounding everyone in the country, a persistent rumor certainly aggravates the already daunting tasks of the incumbents. Respective programs and policies will definitely be clouded with uncertainties. Stakeholders in the respective Departments most likely will wonder—possibly be anxious— because of apprehensions about continuity and stability. With present economic challenges

Sources say the rumors have been going around for quite some time already, and this is what’s troublesome: regardless of the personalities involved, allowing such sense of uncertainty and anxiety to fester is unhealthy for the country now beset by so many problems. to mount, like the huge loans of P14 trillion, rumors of this kind are not helping. But the question remains: Are they mere rumors? If not, letting it linger longer is not helping. It leads to impasse, a key point in Sun Tzu’s Art of War, which disdains impasse. Indecisiveness is definitely not good for business. Then, there are some reactions as rumors are normally responded to. Bystanders are not undermining the portfolio of Rep. Recto. There’s just this itching preference that the DOF may be better with a technocrat. Recto may be foremost considered a politician now, notwithstanding his earlier stint as head of the National Economic and Development Authority. There’s just this preconceived notion that running the DOF is better in the hands of pureblooded technocrats. Then, the bystanders are worrying about Go being in DTI—not because of questions on his com-

petence, but his affinity. Everyone knows he belongs to a family that runs a conglomerate, one of the biggest in the country. But having been a journalist himself, we know that Go is very much capable of objectivity and impartiality. Still, perceptions are often wayward. His being part of the family that runs a conglomerate, with its subsidiaries’ activities linked with DTI in many instances, may create an unfair impression of him being the Secretary. Go is competent, and it will be unfair to him to be subject of suspicion. As for the DOTr, there’s a saying that goes, “if it ain’t broke, why change it?” As we stressed earlier, the competence of the names involved in this rumored revamp are not in any way questioned. It’s just that many quarters are expressing their apprehensions and unsolicited remarks. Among some of the remarks, the value of “respect” is touched. Two of the incumbent secretaries (Diokno and Pascual) are highly esteemed individuals in their respective fields, with decades of experience backing their exceptional capabilities. They accepted their posts for patriotic motivations. The naysayers believe that the whole economic team is very solid. Diokno is its captain. The last thing that this country needs, at this point in time, is a demoralized economic team.

China affirms Israel’s right to self-defense, shifting stance By Jacob Gu

hina acknowledged that Israel has the right to self-defense against Hamas after being criticized over its stance on the war—and as Foreign Minister Wang Yi prepares for a highprofile visit to Washington. “Every country has the right to self-defense but should abide by international humanitarian law and protect civilians,” Wang told his Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen in a telephone call Monday, according to China’s state-run Xinhua News Agency. The remarks seem to represent the first time Beijing has acknowledged that Israel has the right to take action against Hamas—designated as a terrorist organization by the US and European Union. China’s president, Xi Jinping, called last week for an immediate cease-fire while offering to coordinate with Egypt and other Arab nations “to push for a comprehensive, just and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue as soon as possible.” China has refrained from condemning Hamas, which killed 1,400

people, many of them civilians, in an assault on Israel that began on October 7. US congressional leaders confronted Xi over the issue on a visit to Beijing. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer asked China to stand with Israel and condemn the attacks, hours after he assailed Wang for showing “no sympathy or support for Israel during these tough, troubled times.” The Israelis also openly rebuked China. “Israel is deeply disappointed at China’s official statements and media reports,” Deputy DirectorGeneral in charge of Asia-Pacific Affairs Rafi Harpaz told Special Envoy on the Middle East Issue Zhai Jun during a call, according to an October 13 statement in Chinese by the Israeli Embassy in Beijing. Wang reiterated in Monday’s call that China is “deeply concerned by

China has refrained from condemning Hamas, which killed 1,400 people, many of them civilians, in an assault on Israel that began on October 7. US congressional leaders confronted Xi over the issue on a visit to Beijing. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer asked China to stand with Israel and condemn the attacks, hours after he assailed Wang for showing “no sympathy or support for Israel during these tough, troubled times.”

the continued escalation of the conflict and the intensification of the situation” and “deeply saddened by the large number of civilian casualties caused by the conflict,” according to Xinhua. He once again condemned all acts that harm civilians and opposes any violations of international laws. The pivot occurred shortly before Wang’s planned visit to US this week for high-level meetings. He will be in Washington October 26 to Octo-

ber 28 and will meet with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, senior Biden administration officials said on a briefing call with reporters on Monday. In an interview with Bloomberg Television last week, Ambassador Nicholas Burns in Beijing said the US and China had differing views on the Israel-Hamas war. President Joe Biden affirmed the US’s strong support for Israel during a visit to the country this week, while China has aligned with the Palestinian cause and avoided condemning Hamas. Wang said Monday China does not pursue any selfish interests on the issue and sincerely hopes that differences between Israel and Palestine can be comprehensively and fairly resolved on the basis of the twostate solution, so that the legitimate security concerns of all parties can be truly and thoroughly addressed. “China will firmly support anything that is conducive to peace and will do its best as long as it is conducive to the reconciliation between Palestine and Israel,” he added. Bloomberg

www.news.businessmirror@gmail.com

Opinion BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 A15

Why Venezuela is about Calling on UCAP: Fight this battle against palm olein smugglers I am now appealing to UCAP to to lose its oil crown jewel show the same vigor as what the By Fabiola Zerpa, Nicolle Yapur & Jef Feeley

enezuela is entering the final stage of a long legal battle in which its most valuable foreign asset, Citgo Petroleum Corp., will be auctioned off to settle claims against the government and its oil company. The sale starts on Monday with the expected distribution of marketing materials to potential buyers, setting off a bidding process expected to last several months. Citgo had been shielded by US sanctions against Venezuela that prevented creditors from seizing the refiner. But a US judge ordered the process for the sale of its parent company, PDV Holding Inc., to begin this month after Washington signaled it wouldn’t stand in the way. More than 20 plaintiffs are now seeking to collect on the auction, scheduled for June 6, while navigating legal roadblocks Venezuela has thrown up. They include bondholders, commercial lenders and companies whose Venezuela assets were taken over by former President Hugo Chavez, who died in 2013. 1. Who controls Citgo and why does Venezuela have to sell it? The Venezuelan opposition currently controls the refiner. Citgo has been trapped in a battle between two political factions since 2019, following the US government’s recognition of Juan Guaido as the country’s legitimate president. Guaido’s appointees were then authorized by the US to act as representatives of the company in US courts. By then Venezuela’s creditors— a varied group that holds a mix of arbitration awards, unpaid loans and defaulted bonds—had begun to seek compensation in the courts, and Citgo had emerged as the most valuable asset in the mix. The sanctions bar any transfer or sale of assets belonging to Venezuela’s state-owned energy company Petroleos de Venezuela SA, or PDVSA, which owns PDV Holding, Citgo’s parent. But the US said in May that it wouldn’t block the court-ordered sale of PDV Holding or take action against companies participating in the process. That bolstered creditor optimism. The Venezuelan opposition, which includes Guaido but is splintered, has tried to settle the most pressing claims, including by Canadian mining company Crystallex International Corp., but negotiations have been overtaken by the now imminent sale of the company. The economic backdrop of the fight over Citgo includes Venezuela’s seven-year recession and one of the longest bouts of hyperinflation in world history, which were sparked by a steep drop in oil prices and the tough US sanctions. The country’s oil exports, responsible for more than 90 percent of its income, collapsed amid industry mismanagement, corruption and restrictions on international trade. Even as Venezuela’s oil industry crashed, Citgo thrived under better refining margins and as market conditions improved. 2. How do creditors line up for the sale? Creditors seeking payment from the sale of the shares of Citgo’s parent need to take a number of steps required by US Circuit Judge Leonard Stark, who is in charge of the process leading to the sale. He has favored a first-come, first-served basis for companies to participate in the auction, and all requirements must be fulfilled by May. More than 20 plaintiffs have filed for compensation, bringing the total claims to about $20 billion. Only Crystallex, which won a $1.2 billion award against Venezuela, has completed all the requirements, from proving that Venezuela owes it money to obtaining a writ of attachment from the court against the shares of PDV Holding.

The rest of the creditors have yet to complete all the steps. Some of them have had their proceedings slowed by Venezuela’s appeal. 3. How much is Citgo worth? The value of Citgo, the parent company’s sole asset, has increased in the past few years as crude prices soared during the pandemic and now amid high energy prices driven partly by the war in Ukraine. Experts have valued the firm from $8.1 billion to $23.5 billion. EMFI Securities estimates that Citgo is worth between $13.3 billion and $14 billion. Citgo has said it could tap its $3 billion cash pile to settle claims. Under these valuations, the share sale would be enough to satisfy at least the most immediate creditors, including Crystallex. But Venezuela has about $160 billion in outstanding debt, including defaulted bonds, loans and arbitration awards. 4. Who might buy Citgo? The purchase of Citgo could be an attractive proposition for various potential buyers. The refiner owns three refineries and has 38 fully or jointly owned terminals, as well as a network of about 4,200 gas stations. Its assets were highly profitable last year, with each site earning between $1.6 billion and $3 billion, and are “highly competitive” in North America, with two ranking in the second 25 percent in 2022, said Alan Gelder, an analyst for refining markets at the consultancy Wood Mackenzie. It could interest buyers seeking to expand their businesses or as a financial investment, according to Jorge Piedrahita, the chief executive officer of Gear Capital Partners in New York. Companies such as Marathon Petroleum Corp. and Valero Energy Corp. would be in the first group, Piedrahita said, while private equity funds may be interested because of Citgo’s competitiveness and ability to generate cash. Independent refiners might be interested, too. Given the sanctions, any share transfer will require a license from the US Treasury. The buyer would have to pass government scrutiny as well. 5. What’s the timeline for Citgo’s sale? An initial schedule set in July by Special Master Robert Pincus was modified on Monday, the launch date, nearly a week after US sanctions on Venezuela were eased. Pincus changed the selling procedure from a so-called stalking horse bidder to a traditional two-round bidding process, customary for merger-and-acquisition sales “in an effort to increase competition among potential bidders.” Creditors must complete some steps to be eligible to bid by January 12, and first round of bids is set for January 22. The second one is to be determined. The final hearing to approve the sale is set for July 15. The new key dates reflect a less restrictive calendar compared to the one approved in July of this year. Remaining litigation could slow the process. Last week, the Biden administration issued a set of licenses to suspend some sanctions against Venezuela’s oil and gas sector, bonds and gold. US Treasury also extended a protection on Citgo that prevents holders of the PDVSA 2020 bonds from seizing the shares of the refiner’s parent until after January 2024. However, as the US still doesn’t recognize Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate ruler, the company remains under the opposition’s control. Bloomberg

Dr. Jesus Lim Arranza

MAKE SENSE

or several decades now, coconut stakeholders have been very fortunate to have a vanguard that is always ready to take the cudgels for the industry—the United Coconut Associations of the Philippines (UCAP). UCAP is the mother organization of all coconut-related associations, including those of coconut farmers, refiners, millers, coco chemicals, virgin coconut oil, desiccated coconut, etc. When trouble comes knocking at the door, UCAP is always the first to meet it head-on. For instance, some 30 years ago, the United States soya association tried to malign coconut and other tropical oils and wanted to make American legislators mandate that all labels clearly say that tropical oils are hazardous to health. UCAP went to the US to fight that battle and won. When the smuggling and illegal importation of edible oil became rampant in the country, UCAP fought that battle and won. Indeed, countless battles were fought by UCAP under the guidance of its former chairmen, including yours truly and Pepot Eleazar, to name a few. It has been the practice of the group that when there are problems affecting the coconut industry, the officers and members of UCAP would immediately rise up and collectively bring the matters to the attention of

the proper authorities. Lately, however, there’s been nothing but deafening silence from UCAP amid the problems and controversies surrounding the illegal use of imported palm olein that are being shipped into the country by unscrupulous traders duty- and tax-free in the guise of using them as compounding for animal feeds. This anomaly was uncovered by members of the Coconut Oil Refiners Association (CORA), a member of UCAP and where I’ve been serving as the lifetime president. The technical smuggling of palm oil was also exposed by House Ways and Means Committee Chair Joey Salceda, who revealed that the government has lost about P45 billion in taxes and duties because of these illegal importations over a period of six years. Based on the documents given to me by my members at CORA, I wrote a letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to seek Malacañang’s assistance. I also subsequently made this a subject of my column here in the BusinessMirror and discussed

group is known for. Let us join forces and pursue the investigation of the illegal importation of palm olein up to its resolution, and I’m sure UCAP will be recognized and welcomed by PBBM for being an active partner of the government against illicit trade.

it frequently with former Senate President and now Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile in our weekly radio/TV program “Dito sa Bayan ni Juan” over SMNI. Thankfully, PBBM, through the Presidential Management Staff, has taken cognizance of the matter and instructed the Department of Agriculture (DA) to immediately address the problem. Malacanang’s letter to Agriculture Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban was furnished to me. Eventually, Panganiban and I had a meeting along with other DA officials, including the head of the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), the agency that’s been issuing the tax-free exemptions to palm olein importers purportedly for compounding of animal feeds. It turned out, however, that these palm olein importations are being redirected to the market as cooking oil or as substitute for coconut oil in the production of bio-diesel. It was, I should say, a fruitful meeting with Panganiban. It followed an earlier meeting I had with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) where I turned over the related

documents forwarded to me by my CORA members. The BAI officials also informed me that the NBI already reached out to them to subpoena the documents they have. Right now, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is also already involved. Indeed this is a serious problem that Malacanang, the DA, NBI, and BIR are now acting on the matter. Note that the coconut industry is one of only five net dollar earners in the country. Just imagine the negative impact on the coconut farmers and industry. These technical smugglers of palm olein are unfairly competing with us, the members of UCAP. Huge volumes of palm olein are flooding the market and their importers are not paying the proper duties and taxes. I’m sure several members and officers of UCAP are aware of this by now. Some of them have called me already. I am now appealing to UCAP to show the same vigor as what the group is known for. Let us join forces and pursue the investigation of the illegal importation of palm olein up to its resolution, and I’m sure UCAP will be recognized and welcomed by PBBM for being an active partner of the government against illicit trade. Let’s fight this battle against palm olein smugglers and—as in the past —I know we will win.

Dr. Jesus Lim Arranza is the chairman of the Federation of Philippine Industries and Fight Illicit Trade; a broad-based, multisectoral movement intended to protect consumers, safeguard government revenues and shield legitimate industries from the ill effects of smuggling.

Global oil demand to reach its peak this decade, IEA says By Bloomberg News

lobal demand for oil will reach its peak this decade, the International Energy Agency predicted for the first time, amid growing popularity of electric cars and the cooling of China’s economy. The predicted peak, which the agency also anticipates for coal and natural gas, doesn’t mean a rapid plunge in fossil fuel consumption is imminent. It will probably be followed by “an undulating plateau lasting for many years” with demand remaining too high to limit global warming to 1.5C, the IEA said. The world will consume as much as 102 million barrels a day of oil by the late 2020s, with the volumes dropping to 97 million barrels a day by mid-century, according to the base-case, called the Stated Policies Scenario, laid out on Tuesday in the IEA’s annual World Energy Outlook. “The transition to clean energy is happening worldwide and it’s unstoppable,” IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said in a statement. “Claims that oil and gas represent

safe or secure choices for the world’s energy and climate future look weaker than ever.” Oil demand in the petrochemicals, aviation and shipping industries will continue to increase to 2050 but it won’t be enough to offset lower demand from road transport amid “astounding rise in electric vehicle sales,” the IEA said. China, which has for years driven the growth in global crude consumption, will see its appetite weakening over the next few years, with total consumption declining in the long run, according to the report. Global oil consumption will follow the same path as demand for other hydrocarbons. “We are on track to see all fossil fuels peak before 2030,” the IEA said. It’s the first time all scenarios drawn up by the Paris-based agency for global energy markets point to a near-term decline in hydrocarbon consumption. The IEA’s base-case reflects energy policies currently pursued by governments worldwide and the continued ramifications of last year’s energy crisis. The IEA’s second scenario, which assumes all governments meet

The world will consume as much as 102 million barrels a day of oil by the late 2020s, with the volumes dropping to 97 million barrels a day by mid-century, according to the base-case, called the Stated Policies Scenario, laid out on Tuesday in the IEA’s annual World Energy Outlook.

their energy and climate pledges in full and on time, envisions global oil demand peaking at 93 million barrels a day in 2030, with a decline to 55 million barrels per day in 2050. The third, a net zero emissions scenario in which global warming is limited to 1.5C, would see global demand plunging to 77 million barrels a day in 2030 and just under 25 million barrels a day in 2050.

Opec’s grip

The process of decarbonizing the global economy “will be a long one and fossil fuel producers remain influential” in the years to come, according to the report.

In the base-case, Russia and the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries will keep their combined share of the oil market at 45 percent to 48 percent until the end of this decade. By the middle of the century, that will rise above 50 percent thanks to higher production in Saudi Arabia, the de-facto Opec leader. Russia, on the other hand, is set to lose some 3.5 million barrels a day, or roughly a third, of its oil production by 2050, “as it struggles to maintain output from existing fields or to develop large new ones,” the IEA said. The IEA also assumes that in the years to come Iran and Venezuela will be able to grow their output thanks to a gradual relaxation of international sanctions. However, over time the market power of major oil producers will decline, the agency warned. “In exercising this influence they reduce it, because consumers have an increasing range of mature clean energy options that become more attractive,” according to the report. Bloomberg

House Republicans plan another vote to choose a new speaker By Billy House & Erik Wasson

ouse Republicans plan to try on Tuesday to choose a nominee for speaker after the party’s two previous candidates failed to secure enough support to win the job. The House has been paralyzed without a speaker since Kevin McCarthy was ousted on October 3, unable to act on any legislation, including emergency aid for Israel and Ukraine or an agreement to avert an impending US government shutdown on November 17. GOP members emerged from a question-and-answer forum of eight new candidates late Monday night with Tom Emmer of Minnesota seen as the frontrunner for the nomination. Yet no contender was viewed as having a firm hold of the party’s majority to win. Multiple rounds of voting is expected Tuesday behind closed doors before the party’s official designee for speaker will emerge. Even then, lawmakers said, that person will have more work to shore-

The succession battle that began when eight GOP rebels ousted McCarthy has heightened ideological tensions and personal grudges in a party already riven by divisions among an emerging populist wing linked to Trump, traditionalist conservatives and more moderate lawmakers elected from areas that voted for President Joe Biden in 2020.

up the almost unanimous support in disunified party—at least 217 votes —needed to win the gavel in a floor election that includes Democrats. Representative Byron Donalds of Florida was among those making a strong late push, exiting the meeting saying he was heading to a late night of more calls and discussions with colleagues on why he should be chosen. But like several of the other hopefuls, Donalds said, “Whoever it is, I will support.” Another strong bid was being made by Representative Kevin Hern of Oklahoma, who said after

the meeting he expected to win. “I didn’t get in this to come in second or to lose.” Winning the nomination is no guarantee of ultimate success, as both hardline conservative Jim Jordan and Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana have been forced to abandon their candidacies for speaker after winning the nomination. Neither could lock up enough unified party backing to win on the floor. Jordan failed in three floor votes. Scalise did not even try. The succession battle that began when eight GOP rebels ousted McCarthy has heightened ideological tensions and personal grudges in a party already riven by divisions among an emerging populist wing linked to Trump, traditionalist conservatives and more moderate lawmakers elected from areas that voted for President Joe Biden in 2020. The candidates made their cases at a closed-door session on Capitol Hill Monday night. “We’ve got a black box and we don’t know what’s inside it,” Representative Mike Garcia of California said

afterward. “We’ll find out when we open it tomorrow.” Party rules call for nomination of the first Republican to win a majority of GOP lawmakers. Election as speaker, however, requires a majority of the entire House, which means the nominee can only lose four House Republicans against what’s assumed to be a unified Democratic opposition. Also in the running are No. 5 Republican Mike Johnson of Louisiana, former campaign chairman Pete Sessions of Texas and high profile Floridian of the conservative House Freedom Caucus. This group is complemented by a group of lesser-known men who could become the consensus candidate if agreement cannot be reached on the others. These include Jack Bergman of Michigan, Austin Scott of Georgia and Gary Palmer of Alabama. Representative Dan Meuser of Pennsylvania dropped out of the race on Monday night. With assistance from Jonathan Tamari and Maeve Sheehey/ Bloomberg

A16 Wednesday, October 25, 2023

‘RIGHT POLICY MIX WILL ENTICE INVESTORS IN NUCLEAR POWER’ By Lenie Lectura @llectura

HE government should put in place appropriate policies that will send the “right signals” to the private sector to bolster the role of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix. During a roundtable discussion on financing mechanisms and the commercial viability of nuclear energy, the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) convened a consortium of industry experts and policymakers on Tuesday. “I think it will start with the amendment or the passing of laws that are in the Lower House today, that is the first step for us. Once that is done, it requires setting up the regulatory body and for that regulatory body to build its capability and come up with regulations, policies and guidelines for us developers to follow. The DOE [Department of Energy] has to put it in their policy, the energy mix of the Philippines and come up with the right signal for developers to come up with their own plans to make sure that we build accordingly,” said Elino Bernando, Aboitiz Power Corp.’s Chief Operating Officer-Thermal Business Group.

For instance, power supply contracts for nuclear energy is significantly different from other fuel source. “The current CSP [Competitive Selection Process] policies are only for 15 years. Now, nuclear power plants can live as long as 40, 60 years and some probably 80 years so you have to match the two,” he said. “There’s a dissonance between the current policies and what nuclear can do.” Having said that, the power firm said various nuclear technologies must be cautiously reviewed. “I believe that large nuclear, SMRs [small nuclear reactors] and even MMRs [micro modular reactors] have a place in our economy because we need all of them and we will need a lot of them. Developers will have to see what is out there, match it with our current needs and make sure that they will be able to deliver them on time, safely,” added Bernardo. MMRs are smaller nuclear plants with less than 20 megawatts (MW) of capacity and are ideal for energizing island provinces. “Nuclear will be a big portion of the Philippines’ energy mix because I think the technology ticks all the boxes.

Exec: Logistics woes crimp banana shipments to Japan

By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan

ANILA should improve its logistics infrastructure to “optimize” the Philippines’s shipments of bananas and pineapples to Japan, according to Sembikiya Fruit Co. Ltd. The company, considered one of Japan’s oldest fruit shops that imports from the Philippines, said it is experiencing logistics issues and is having difficulties importing local fruits. Company President Hiroshi Oshima made this pronouncement during the economic dialogue between the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) held in Makati City last Tuesday.

“Recently, the Filipino banana is not being stably transported or imported into Japan. So Ecuadorian bananas are gaining more share in the Japanese banana market,” Oshima said in Japanese. He said the fruit company processes imported fruit, adds value to it then turns it into a “Sembikiyabranded product.” Oshima said it is important that the original fruit is of “high quality” and that the supply is stable throughout the year.

Currently, he said 95 percent of the pineapples being processed by Sembikiya are from the Philippines. “Pineapples and bananas in the Philippines are of top quality.” As for pineapples being imported from the Philippines, the president of the Japanese fruit importer said these are “well received by consumers thanks to its high ripeness, sweetness, and rich aroma and we are using it in a wide range of menu due to its stable quality and availability.” As for the local bananas it imports, the company described Philippine bananas as having “more sweetness, richness and flavor compared to those produced in other countries.” The company sells bananas as fresh fruit. However, Oshima said he met with Trade Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual to discuss not only the supply of Philippine fruits but also his concerns about quality in light of climate change. “We met with Minister Pascual of [Department of Trade and Industry] DTI and I actually made two requests

to the minister that due to climate change, the quality is quite unstable. Due to the climate, we want more improvement in the variety which is less susceptible to the impact of climate change,” he said. Due to the impact of climate change, Oshima said flowering is not happening according to plans. As such, appropriate timing for harvesting by natural flowering is disrupted. This, he said, has resulted in “reduction of production situation remains to be quite difficult…unable to satisfy our desired trading volume.” Meanwhile, at the same economic dialogue, the PCCI and JCCI inked a memorandum of understanding (MOU) as both chambers aim to increase trade and expand investments between the two nations in the areas of information and communications technology and innovation, agriculture, manufacturing, franchising, tourism, services, and small and medium enterprise development, among others. Continued on A4

Continued on A4

Govt urged to fortify cybersecurity laws

HE IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) said it is “deeply alarmed” by the recent surge in cyberattacks targeting the government’s critical information and communications technology (ICT) systems, saying this can inflict “lasting damage” on businesses. In a statement on Tuesday, IBPAP President and CEO Jack Madrid said the flagship organization of the IT and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) industry recognizes the need to maintain a “heightened state of alertness,” as there are “inherent” risks from its dependence on digital technologies and systems that host substantial volumes of sensitive data. “The Philippine IT-BPM industry, which is projected to generate revenues of $35.4 billion by the end of 2023, acknowledges that a successful cyberattack could potentially lead to substantial losses,” the IBPAP head said in a statement on Tuesday. More importantly, Madrid said the “ramifications” of cyberattacks extend beyond immediate financial losses. “They can inflict lasting damage on businesses, leading to client attrition, reputational harm, and long-term financial implications,” he added. Given the vital contribution of technology and the IT-BPM industry to the economy, the organization is urging the government to ensure that robust data privacy and cybersecurity laws are established to deter cyberattacks and threats across sectors. Among these recommendations, Madrid noted, is for the government to approve and implement the National Cybersecurity Plan 2023-2028, which he said outlines the Philippines’s overall strategy in combating cyber threats that could “cripple” the economy and national security. According to the IBPAP chief, there is also a need for the government to “certify as urgent” the passage of the proposed Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Act, which provides a clear reporting mechanism and policy framework for public and private

institutions in safeguarding the ICT systems of critical information infrastructures from cyber threats and attacks. Further, Madrid said there is a need to amend the Cybercrime Law to facilitate the legal proceedings against cybercrimes perpetrated by employees that damage the reputation of Philippine IT-BPM and other industries. “IBPAP has taken the lead in communicating the urgency of addressing fraud within our sector and the inability of our members to take legal action against culpable individuals due to constraints set by current laws and regulations,” Madrid said. At the organizational level, Madrid also laid out IBPAP’s recommendations to combat cyber threats. He said there is a need to invest in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)-led threat hunting. “Utilize AI and ML technologies to proactively identify and mitigate potential threats.” He also emphasized the need for the organization to “enhance” threat intelligence capabilities such as developing “robust” threat intelligence capabilities to include monitoring and analyzing threat intelligence needs, collaborating with peers in the sector, and leveraging threat intelligence platforms. Firms or businesses should regularly update and patch systems by keeping all software, applications, and systems up to date with the latest security patches and updates. He added that firms should regularly scan for vulnerabilities and apply necessary patches to mitigate potential risks. Madrid said companies can strengthen their cybersecurity skills by investing in training and upskilling programs for employees. As to making employees aware of cyber threats, he said there is a need for firms to educate employees on cybersecurity best practices by conducting training programs about common cyber threats, phishing attacks, password hygiene, and other best practices to ensure a security-conscious workforce. Andrea E. San Juan

RAPS FILED VS EX-PRESIDENT On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, Alliance of Concerned Teachers Party-list Representative France Castro (center), accompanied by her legal counsel Atty. Tony La Viña and Atty. Rico Domingo (left), filed a legal complaint against former President Rodrigo Duterte at the Quezon City Prosecutors Office. The complaint stems from reported concerns regarding a significant threat allegedly posed by the former head of state. NONOY LACZA

PHL wants to expand MICE market; holds first roadshow in S. Korea By Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo

@akosistellaBM Special to the BusinessMirror

HE Philippines hopes to see more MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions) tourists from South Korea, after the Department of Tourism (DOT) conducted the first Philippine MICE Roadshow 2023 from October 11 to 18, 2023. Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita M. Nograles said the Philippines is an ideal “Bleisure” destination, where tourists can combine their work-related activities (business) and leisure travel. “The Philippines, also well known in Korea as a country with beautiful beaches and warm hospitality,

has all the conditions to attract various MICE groups from Korean companies and institutions.” TPB is the marketing arm of the DOT. The MICE Roadshow traveled to Busan, Yeosu, Suwon, and Seoul, and provided a platform for networking between Filipino sellers and Korean buyers. Margie Munsayac, vice president for sales and marketing at Bluewater Resorts, told the BusinessMirror, “We are targeting the Incentive [travel] market. A few who I interacted with were interested in Bohol, as well Boracay, Cebu, and Manila.” Bluewater has three properties in Maribago and Sumilon in Cebu, and on Panglao Island in Bohol. Other MICE destinations promoted during the road show were

Clark, Palawan, Bacolod, and Davao, according to DOT-Korea.

‘Roadshow must be sustained’

MUNSAYAC expressed optimism for the opening of new MICE markets: “This project [roadshow] must be sustained to get traction.” MICE organizers and venues in the Philippines have long depended on China as a major MICE market, which has yet to rebound. Under the DOT’s MICE Roadmap 2030, the Philippines is targetting to earn some P25 billion in revenue by 2030. It aims to position the Philippines as a leading MICE destination in Asia Pacific and the Middle East by that year. (See, “PHL aims to earn P25B from MICE hostings,” in the BusinessMirror, December 27, 2022.)

Prior to the pandemic, the Philippines welcomed close to 2 million South Korean visitors in 2019. From January to October 2, 2023, the Philippines received some 1.07 million travelers from South Korea, accounting for 26.3 percent of total international visitors, and making the latter the top source market for tourists. About 600 Korean MICE and travel-related agencies including banks, companies purveying credit cards, cosmetics, cars, information techonology and ecommerce, financing and investment, among others, attended the MICE roadshow. “This signifies the growing interest by Koreans in traveling to the Philippines,” said Maria Corazon Jorda-Apo, Tourism Director of DOT-Korea, in a news statement.

Companies BusinessMirror

Editor: Jennifer A. Ng

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Nasdaq keen on expanding ICTSI subsidiary buys 2 gantries workforce in PHL by a third

By VG Cabuag

@villygc

ASDAQ Philippines Inc. announced plans to expand its workforce to 400 employees by the end of 2024, an increase of about a third from the current number, as the company said it is committed to help advance the country’s economic growth through job creation and the development of a talented and skilled workforce. Nasdaq, a global provider of trading, clearing, exchange technology, listing, information and public company services, rang the opening bell at the Philippine Stock Exchange last Tuesday in celebra-

tion of its 10th anniversary in the Philippines. “Nasdaq is proud of its 10-year track record in the Philippines, and it would not have been possible without our employees who

have been instrumental in helping to fuel our success while delivering exceptional service to clients,” Nelson Griggs, president of Capital Access Platforms at Nasdaq, said. “We look forward to building on all of the team’s tremendous accomplishments, as well as doubling down on our existing efforts to deliver continued growth for our clients locally and across the globe,” Griggs added. Nasdaq’s Manila office started with about a hundred employees when it opened a decade ago. Currently, the number of highly-skilled Nasdaq employees in the Philippines has grown to more than 300 people. The company anticipates hiring new roles across its three divisions, including Griggs’s unit. Many of the new roles will focus on capital markets, private markets, indices, ESG and general financial data analysis, the company said. Yasser Fattah, Nasdaq advisory

vice president and Philippine senior site lead, said the roles that the company bringing here are in terms of skill set, financial analysis, data engineering and data science. “When we hire here, we build up teams here at Nasdaq. We don’t just bring in analysts that often we think about. We’re looking at where’s that role going to be in two [years] or three years. So there’s career progression for that person, so that we build a depth of their experience,” Fattah said. Specific to helping drive economic growth in the Philippines, the company has led several initiatives to empower the local community by investing in education, supporting charities and promoting entrepreneurship in the region. Nasdaq said it continues to dedicate significant resources in Asia, emphasizing the importance of education in fostering investor confidence and paving the way for greater investor participation.

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

HE International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) announced last Tuesday that its unit, South Pacific International Container Terminal (SPICT), has acquired two new Mitsui hybrid rubber tired gantries (RTG). SPICT, operating in the Port of Lae in Papua New Guinea, recently added the new equipment, which are powered by a combination of a smaller diesel engine and lithiumion battery, a statement issued by ICTSI read. The Mitsui hybrids are expected to contribute to more efficient landside operation resulting in faster turnaround time for outside trucks. Additionally, the hybrid mechanism helps reduce the terminal’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission.

Aboitiz Construction tapped by Monde for Davao builds

Phoenix divests $19.2M from PNX A P By Lenie Lectura

hoenix Petroleum Philippines Inc. (PPPI) on Tuesday disclosed the value of the 85-percent stake it divested from its Singapore-based trading arm, PNX Petroleum Singapore Pte. Ltd. (PNX SG). At $0.85 apiece, the 22.6 million shares are worth $19.2 million or about P1.089 billion. “This transaction shall raise an

immediate $19.2 million in cash for PPPI, which can be utilized to meet the immediate needs of the business for working capital to purchase inventory for its B2B customers,” the listed oil firm said Tuesday, adding that “this is a self-help given the difficulty in raising additional working capital bank lines.” PPPI did not previously disclose the value of the transaction. It only said that the divestment, via share buyback, is “pursuant to the Liability Management Exercise (LME) in

Alternergy’s wind power project OK’d

Puregold income inched up G

@llectura

HE Provincial Development Council (PDC) of the Province of Quezon has issued its green light to the development of Alabat wind-power project of Alternergy Holdings Corp. (Alternergy). The endorsement from the PDC is one of the remaining pre-construction clearances for the Alabat windpower project, which is expected to be issued a “notice to proceed construction” by the second half of 2024. The Quezon PDC noted that the wind power project “is seen to be beneficial to the socio-economic development of the province and its constituent.” The local government council added it considers the project as consistent with the province’s vision and mission of a progressive Quezon Province through optimized utilization of resources and provision of infrastructure and support services. “We welcome the favorable support from the Quezon Province. We will be long-term partners for the development of not just the Alabat Island but the entire province. Our Alabat Wind Power Project is committed to delivering sustainable energy and growth to our community,” Alternergy President Gerry P. Magbanua said. Alternergy is accelerating the development of its wind power projects, the Alabat and Tanay Wind power projects, with a capacity of up to 164 megawatts, both recently awarded under the Green Energy Auction 2 (GEA 2) program of the Department of Energy. Lenie Lectura

rocery chain operator Puregold Price Club Inc. (PSE: PGold) on Tuesday said its net income in the nine months of the year through September rose 2 percent to to P6.61 billion from the previous year’s P6.47 billion. The company owned by businessman Lucio L. Co said its growth was tamed by compressed margins and higher operating expenses. The company said it had a 4.7-percent in net margin for the period, a slowdown from a 5.1-percent net margin last year.

COLA OUTLOOK

order to generate additional working capital to support core business operations.” The remaining 15-percent stake is owned by Libra Investments Pte Ltd. “The valuation is based on the net book value as of July 31, 2023 reduced by the outstanding receivables from PPPI, PLPI [Phoenix LPG Philippines Inc.], PGV [Phoenix Gas Vietnam], and Udenna Corp. totaling to $20.2 million,” the disclosure added.

Consolidated revenues for the period rose 9 percent to P139.29 billion from P127.56 billion in the same period last year. For the period, the company said it experienced positive same store sales growth of 4.8 percent from Puregold Stores and 4.1 percent from S&R Warehouse clubs driven primarily from higher traffic. “Same store sales growth trends continued to normalize starting in the second quarter as a contrast to the more flattering base effects felt in the first quarter of this year. The company continues to see a buoyant

The same disclosure stated that the transaction shall also offset and settle the outstanding obligations of PPPI, PLPI, PGV and Udenna Corp. totaling to $24.6 million. Based on PPPI’s website, PNX SG’s trading office was opened in November 2017 to expand its business in the region. Prior to this, PNX SG trades and supplies a wide range of refined products to serve customers from retailers, shipowners, mining to transport companies and airlines, among others.

trajectory in topline growth for the balance of the year,” it said. Operating expenses increased by almost 12 percent to to P17.8 billion from P15.92 billion last year. As of end-September, the company has opened 30 new Puregold stores, two S&R Membership Shopping Warehouse stores and two S&R New York Style fast food. The group had a total of 558 stores nationwide. T hese include 481 Puregold stores, 24 S & R Membersh ip and 53 S&R New York Style fast food. VG Cabuag

Bottles of Coca-Cola. Coca-Cola Co. raised its full-year outlook, citing strong year-to-date performance despite price increases and other pressures on the consumer’s wallet.With the ongoing willingness of consumers to pay steadily increasing prices for beverages, the company said it now expects 2023 full-year organic revenue growth of 10 percent to 11 percent, and adjusted profit growth of 7 percent to 8 percent. Photographer: Paul Yeung/Bloomberg

Aside from getting new hybrid RTGs, SPICT also took delivery of two post-Panamax ship-to-shore (STS) cranes late last year. The STS cranes are the first of their kind and currently the largest port equipment in Papua New Guinea. “The receipt of two electric STS cranes for the berth was the first big step of our terminal decarbonization journey, and we are very excited to receive these Hybrid RTG cranes, which show SPICT’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint from yard operations,” ICTSI South Pacific Ltd. CEO Robert Maxwell said. ICTSI is investing almost $55 million in Papua New Guinea’s terminal this year, according to the listed port operator. The stock price of ICTSI closed last Tuesday at P202 apiece after opening at P208.

B OI T I Z Con s t r uc t ion Inc. announced last Tuesday it bagged a project for Monde Nissin Corp. (PSE: Monde). The former said the project involves the construction of nine ancillary structures and external works for Monde’s expanded bakery plant in Baranggay Ilang in Davao City. T h i s pro j e c t i s p oi s e d to i m p r o v e Mo n d e ’s f a c i l it i e s , streng thening t heir commitment to enhancing food security in the region and providing local job opportunities. “We are very thrilled to start a new construction project with Monde Nissin Corporation, one of our valued repeat clients. This collaboration stands as a testament to the trust and confidence they have in our capabilities. As

we embark on this journey, we will ensure to bring our expertise, dedication, and teamwork to the forefront once again,” Aboitiz Construction Vice President for Business Development Construction Levi B. Agoncillo said. For complet ion ne x t yea r, Aboitiz Construction will spearhead tasks such as earthworks, str uctura l, and architectura l work s to bui ld t he anci l lar y structures. The external works include civil works, site development, and building of roads and drainages. The establishment of the new facilities will help strengthen Monde’s sustainability commitment of making eco-efficiency possible and making better food accessible to their consumers. VG Cabuag

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Companies BusinessMirror

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Chinese firms to infuse $4B in PHL RE sector

By Andrea San Juan

@andreasanjuan

WO companies from the People’s Republic of China are expected to infuse $4 billion worth of investments in the Philippines’s wind-energy industry. On the sidelines of a forum last Tuesday, Trade Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo told reporters they expect the investment would be confirmed before the year ends. “Hopefully, we can close this year,” said Rodolfo, managing head of the Board of Investments (BOI). While

the official declined to name the firms, he said the investors are into wind energy equipment. “They have already gone to the Philippines to look at different locations and I think they are already closing in on one particular location where they might be close to each

other,” Rodolfo said. The BOI managing head said one of the Chinese firms is into manufacturing monopile towers while the other is into manufacturing turbines and blades. If the investments are approved, Rodolfo stressed that these firms will manufacture products from within the Philippines. The BOI official underscored that the opportunity for the Philippines in the area of renewable energy (RE) goes beyond service projects and the development of the projects to deliver RE. “But very important also is the hub for manufacturing of equipment and components needed for [RE],” Rodolfo added.

Currently, there are already about 79 service contracts that were issued by the Department of Energy (DOE), according to the BOI official. “So those would be the prospective buyers for them. That’s also one of the attractions,” Rodolfo added. He explained that when it comes to RE, the Philippines is “one of the best locations because of our geographic situation.” Rodolfo said these Chinese companies “want to invest here because [of] local demand and then the opportunity to make us as their hub for the region and also the other big markets like the US and the EU.” He also noted that these Chinese firms manufacture very large equip-

ment. Rodolfo cited as an example the blades used in offshore wind equipment, which he estimates at 80 meters per blade. He added that to set up a manufacturing facility for monopile towers, turbines and blades, the facility should be located near a port where it should be easy to transport from the manufacturing base to project areas. “And we’re perfectly suited [because there are] areas [in the] Philippines that have that [near ports], plus, have the human resource talent for these types of activities,” Rodolfo said adding these areas can accommodate shipbuilding. “You need a port with shipbuilding activity, which should have weld-

ers; and then you should also have access to Europe, within the region or in the US,” he added. Rodolfo said the Philippines also has “tariff advantage.” “If you’d look at, for example, tariffs on these types of products as they access the US and the EU there are additional tariffs if these products are produced there, sa atin wala,” he said. From January to September this year, the BOI reported having approved P734-billion worth of investments. The bulk, or P427 billion, of the registered amount is accounted for by foreign direct investments (FDIs). During the first nine months of the year, 90 percent of the approved FDIs are for RE.

www.businessmirror.com.ph

Entrepreneur BusinessMirror

Editor: Vittorio V. Vitug • Wednesday, October 25, 2023 B3

Entrepreneurs narrate challenges in scaling, highlight essence of newfound ‘bayanihan’

uring the peak of the pandemic, aspiring entrepreneurs took a chance at building their own businesses within the comfort of their own homes.

A common “happy problem” for successful ventures is finding their garage-turned-warehouseturned-office too, small and no longer enough to accommodate their products, and when a one-man team is not efficient enough to meet the demands of picking, packing, storing, dispatching orders, and managing their digital presence in their e-commerce platforms. These were the problems that FullFill (We Empower Ecommerce Solutions Inc.) found when they started their business in 2022, led by Founders Joy Chua, CEO, and Che Secillano, COO. Noting an uptick in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) from the past year, the company saw an opportunity to support growing entrepreneurs in their operations through order fulfillment, microwarehousing, and digital content support. Fur parents Ali De Torres and Edsel Sobrevinas witnessed these challenges firsthand when they founded Leilo Pet Care in 2020—a

pet care product line made from locally farmed ingredients and sustainable packaging materials. As a start-up, the financial cost of operations forced them to separate fulfillment locations in Pasig and Cavite. This set up made it difficult for Ali and Edsel to efficiently manage their inventory—monitoring movements from two separate locations. Onboarding FullFill helped them streamline all sales channels and their warehousing location. “It’s easier for us now in terms of inventory management, and order fulfillment,” shares Edsel. “This allowed us to focus on our marketing and business development efforts.” Since then, Leilo Pet Care aims to further grow its product portfolio and make it more accessible to more fur-families nationwide. RJ Magpantay, owner of apparel brand for seafarers called “Travel Clothing,” echoed similar challenges before partnering with FullFill. A seafarer based in Canada, he was initially struggling to maintain his

The growing community of MSMEs in FullFill

business in the Philippines, but his passion to create a signature apparel to be recognized within the maritime community is what drove him to pursue this venture. “Since I operate abroad and don’t have the manpower to handle my daily operations, FullFill takes over in inbounding, storing, picking, packing, dispatching my products to consumers, and even reverse logistics.” Travel clothing started out renting only one rack from the FullFill warehouse, now it occupies multiple shelves to accommodate the growing demand for the apparel line.

From start-ups to established companies

Finding his niche in the industry is Jaime Tuaño, owner of 210 Trading, another partner tenant of FullFill. He’s been in the trading business for

more than a decade, but found scaling to be a problem due to the limited space that he had working from his own residence. “Our garage was always messy. With products spilling over inside our living space, even family members not active in the business suffered the consequences of turning our home to a warehouse,” shares Jaime. 210 Trading supplies finished goods to a big box retailer with branches nationwide. Being based in Aklan, Jaime is able to manage his business remotely, “With FullFill as our operations partner, I no longer have to fly in and out of Manila. I now have a competent extension of our management, and we can focus on our other businesses that need more hands-on attention,” he shares. FullFill supports Jaime in his B2B operations—receiving and

storing his finished goods from partner suppliers abroad, labeling, barcoding, repackaging, and ensuring that the goods reach the retailer on time. Loose-leaf tea manufacturer based in Agusan Del Norte, Nature’s Apothecary, also found its new home at the FullFill headquarters. Carrying and distributing boxes of tea packets nationwide, owners JJ and Danica Fabre found it important to have a partner that was keen on proper sanitation. Apart from this, meeting Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) through fast turn-around of orders was crucial, especially on its ecommerce platforms. “Our most significant challenge was finding a dependable fulfillment partner, especially for same-daydeliveries,” Danica shares. “Being based in Mindanao, we faced logistical hurdles that required a partner to ensure efficient and timely order fulfillment.” Outsourcing the operations leg of their business helped both JJ and Danica to start focusing on scaling with plans to now venture into making their products present in retail stores. Among the other companies that FullFill supports are Nutrichews (producer of kids’ multivitamins), Bloom Era (personal care product producer), Messy Bessy (baby, personal care, and household product producer).

With 110+branches, ‘But First, Coffee’ slates The Psychology of Targets participation in Franchise Asia PHL in Oct

rom its humble beginnings as a digital coffee shop just three years ago, “But First, Coffee” (BFC) has emerged as a unique and inspiring coffee shop franchise chain with more than 110 branches. This October, they’re set to take part in the biggest franchise event in the country—Franchise Asia Philippines at the SMX Convention Center—offering exclusive discounts, games, and exciting prizes! Back in 2020, during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Anna Magalona, the CEO and founder, took the brave step of entering the coffee industry where most traditional coffee shops had well-established footprints. Their journey has been a testament to the power of effective mar-

keting, innovation and dedication. Since Magalona started franchising in 2021, BFC has since become a member of the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA), the country’s premier franchising organization dedicated to assisting entrepreneurs in achieving success. It has

been growing and expanding, all the while maintaining its commitment to delivering quality and affordable coffee for everyone. BFC’s mission goes beyond just being a successful coffee chain. They are dedicated to empowering local farmers and sourcing their coffee beans directly from them. This unique approach not only elevates the coffee quality but also contributes to the livelihood of these farmers and their communities. For aspiring entrepreneurs and coffee lovers, you may kick start your journey on owning your dream coffee shop by visiting But First Coffee booth from October 27 to 29, 2023 during the Franchise Asia Philippines 2023 at the 2nd floor-Booth A30 of SMX Convention Center.

The pain, glory of a successful beauty enterprise By Roderick L. Abad Contributor

‘N

@rodrik_28

O pain, no gain” may be a hackneyed catchphrase in the beauty and aesthetics sector, but it’s also what business players like the tandem of husband and wife John Philip and Luisa Lipnica had gone through in penetrating this very tough industry. Their company, Idara Aesthetics, was established in 2017 as the wellness clinic in the Philippines of Idara, a manufacturer of skincare products in Thailand that exports to neighboring Southeast Asian countries like Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The latter is a business owned by the family of Philip’s auntie based in Thailand. It was incepted 21 years ago with the old corporate name 3P Cosmetic changed to Idara in 2010. “Then came the time that she wanted to penetrate the Philippines. So she asked if we could market Idara Thailand here. I said we didn’t have any idea on cosmetic products,” he told the BusinessMirror in mixed Filipino and English. Both nurse by profession, the couple decided to put up a drip business instead six years ago—thanks to the P200,000 loan from Philip’s credit card provider. Called Idara Wellness Lounge located in a commercial space of the condominium they reside in Timog, Quezon City, their first beauty venture offered gluta drips

for whitening, slimming and detox. Also, it served as a distribution channel for Idara Thailand products. Like other businesses, the lounge also had a fair share of challenges along the way. That’s when the owners started to notice that their sales would go down during summer. So they bought aesthetic machines for hair removal, which, eventually, became a hit for them to quickly achieve a return on investment. “I saw an opportunity to expand because this business is promising,” he said of their move to name it Idara Aesthetics in 2018, with added and upgraded services, such as facials, laser and slimming treatments, and a doctor’s procedure catering to both men and women. “Then my target is [to expand in the] mall.” Such goal the Lipnicas began to work on in 2019 with their acquisition of more premium machines, however, was put on hold when the enhanced community quarantine was implemented by the government in Metro Manila at the onset of the Covid-19 in March 2020. But with the easing of lockdown periods and pent up demand, Idara Aesthetics finally opened at Robinsons Galleria in Ortigas early 2021, followed by two more branches at Robinsons Las Piñas and Ayala Feliz Mall in Marikina in June and December of the same year. The pioneer Timog outlet was transferred to SM North The Block in Quezon

City in June 2023, alongside the opening of another branch at the National University in Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Authentic care

GUIDED by its “Experience the Real Care” slogan, Idara Aesthetics offers unique ways to address the beauty and wellness requirements of every patient through its quality treatments, conducive clinic setup and impeccable service. Upon entry to any branch, customers already feel the warm welcome with the “Mabuhay” gestures of the staff. The clinic’s vibe is simple yet relaxing with its minimalist industrial design. Its interior’s clean white lines and a play of earth colors make the place not intimidating for customers of any gender. A bevy of high quality treatments await them, including the top doctor’s procedures HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound), Botox and lip fillers; as well as the most sought-after non-medical category like gluta drip, intensive underarm whitening, and CO2 fractional for deep acne scars—all performed by highly-competent medical doctors and well-trained staff. “Our process to customers will not end after the procedures or sessions. We still have a follow-up text, which we call ‘Care Texts,’” noted Philip, who now serves as the chief executive officer (CEO) of JPL Group of Companies.

ne of the things that successful sales professionals have in common is their penchant for planning. They make plans for their annual, quarterly, monthly, weekly and daily sales targets. And with these targets in mind, they craft strategies in order to achieve what they set out to do. During my early years in selling, our leaders kept reminding us that “sales success is 90 percent planning and only 10 percent execution.” As the saying goes, “If you don’t have a plan, you plan to fail.” Regularly setting your sales targets is important. This will keep you sharp and on the lookout for opportunities. Targets will also help you gauge your level of success. As a rule of thumb in setting targets, you may simply use the SMART objectives—specific, measurable, ambitious, realistic, and time-bound.

Set specific, measurable targets

Always be clear with what you want to achieve by setting specific targets that you can fully quantify. Instead of simply saying that you will sell Brand A products, quantify it by clearly stating that you will sell 100 units of Brand A products. Don’t settle with declaring that you will sell to 10 customers, rather, state your specific and measurable targets like this—“I will sell Brand A worth P50,000 each to 10 customers this week.” Having specific and measurable targets will enable you to effectively screen the right prospects, and zero-in on the most appropriate type of sales presentation.

Set ambitious yet realistic targets

Successful sales professionals al-

ways set ambitious targets. This does not refer to high and lofty goals that most would eventually translate as mere dreams and fantasies. I’m referring to realistically ambitious goals. As effective sellers, continually endeavor to achieve better than your previous performance. Remember this—even the best can still get better. If you can already comfortably sell 10 units of Brand A per week, why not increase it by another 10 units? This is the ambitious part. The next step is to check if your ambitious target is a realistic one—if you know that your current customer base can actually accommodate more than what you are currently selling, and if the market potential still has enough room for additional sales volume, then perhaps your new target is doable and may even increase over time. However, if your current customer base can only allow for an increment sales of only a couple of units per product, then adjust accordingly based on a realistic scenario.

Set a time frame for your targets

Successful sales professionals always work on a time table. This means that sales targets are time-bound all the time. Always know what you intend to sell for a given period. This will allow you to effectively strategize and schedule enough number of days to prepare for and achieve your goals. Having a time frame will also keep you disciplined in efficiently carrying-out specific tasks essential for sales success. This will likewise push you to prioritize and segment your market in order to achieve targets within specific time periods. But there is more to setting targets than just doing SMART objectives. Successful sales professionals also

An all-in-one operations hub

FullFill is a community of MSMEs that support each other through their own expertise. Being a lean team of less than 10 employees, FullFill believes in the power of outsourcing and collaborating with like-minded entrepreneurs in building their goal to create an all-in-one operations ecosystem with the support of their partner collaborators. “Starting the business already comes with a handful of challenges—maintaining one is another story. We are here to simplify the daily grind of our MSMEs as their partner for fulfillment and operations support,” shares FullFill COO Che Secillano. FullFill strives to cater to the unique challenges that these businesses face in their day-to-day operations. Their headquarters serves as a space where business owners can network, learn from one another, scale, and adapt to the shifting market landscape. “FullFill aims to revive and redefine the bayanihan culture that Filipinos are most known for. We work hard to find gaps and create accessible solutions to the needs of our partners in order for them to grow in their own industries,” concludes FullFill CEO Joy Chua. For more information on FullFill and its services, you may visit their website at https://www.fullfill. com.ph/.

know how to set the “right” targets. To do this, just answer the following basic questions: What is my sales target and when do I achieve them?; Who are my target customers and where can I find them?; Why will my customers buy what I offer?; and How will I influence them to make a purchase? Please note that the first 2 sets of questions may already be addressed by your SMART objectives, while the last two sets of questions are all about strategies. Yet the most important question that will allow you to break barriers and become a successful sales professional is this: Why am I doing what I’m doing? If you know exactly why you’re doing what you’re doing, then your sales plan and performance will revolve around your personal plan for success. This is especially true for sales professionals in the direct marketing industries like insurance, real estate and network marketing. The reason they shifted to this industry was mainly due to the fact that their income is dictated by the amount of effort they pour in, and strongly guided by their intense passion to succeed. Unfortunately, most succumb to the minimum targets imposed upon them by their group leaders. Although these are minimal targets that are easy-enough to achieve, it is not based on their personal whys, and as a result, their minds tend to repel it, and often fail to achieve it. Besides, even if they do achieve these imposed targets, the returns will still not be enough to get to where they eventually want to be, financially speaking. Such is The Psychology of Targets—if we plan sales targets based on our deepest whys, we will work on achieving it with grit. However, if targets are simply imposed upon us, we tend to become complacent at best and mediocre at the very least. So wherever you are in your sales career, use your personal goals as high-octane fuel that will boost the achievement of sales targets, and eventually attaining personal success. Alexey Rola Cajilig is the President of ARCWAY Consultancy Inc. and Executive Director of ARC DOCENDI. He is a Sales Leadership Coach, Strategic Sales Operations Consultant, Christian Motivational Speaker, Human Ecologist and Author of The effective Seller. If you have questions and suggestions, you may send an email to salesleadershipcoachlex@gmail.com.

Banking&Finance BusinessMirror

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 • Editor: Dennis D. Estopace

‘Despite gaining grounds, BSP needs to do more in inclusion’

By Cai U. Ordinario

@caiordinario

ore Filipino households already have accounts, and almost half made digital payment transactions in 2022, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

In his keynote speech at the Digital Financial Inclusion Awards on Tuesday, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr. said 65 percent of households already had accounts in 2022, higher than the 56-percent posted in 2021. Remolona also said 65 percent of households have accounts in 2022 and 42 percent of Filipino adults have made digital transactions. “Our goal is to convert 50 percent of the total volume of retail payments

into digital form and to onboard 70 percent of Filipino adults to the formal financial system,” Remolona said. “Yes, we are gaining ground, but there is still so much more that we can do.” The goals, Remolona said, are linked to the BSP’s Digital Payments Transformation Roadmap and the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion. “When digital transformation is achieved, it offers the chance to de-

liver rapid, responsive, and differentiated financial and social services to clients in a way that has never been done in the past,” Citi Philippines CEO Paul Favila said in his welcome message on Tuesday. Favila said microfinance institutions (MFIs) play a significant role in digital inclusion, particularly in reaching more Micro, Small, and Medium-enterprises (MSMEs). He said MFIs can encourage these enterprises and entrepreneurs to adopt digital technologies. The Citi Philippines executive also said convincing MSMEs to innovate and adopt digital technologies is an advantage of MFIs given that they are more familiar with their clients in the regions where they operate. However, the first step is for MFIs to adopt digital technologies first. “MFIs have their work cut out for them as they harness the potential of their legacy of experience and relationships, work with fintechs to deliver personalized, digitally-enabled

services, and re-educate their staff and agents to provide the human touch and assistance that their clients still seek,” Favila said. For this year’s Digital Financial Inclusion Awards, five microfinance institutions and 20 microentrepreneurs were recognized and awarded cash prizes worth P100,000 and laptops. The five microfinance institution winners were: CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions; Kabalikat para sa Maunlad na Buhay Inc.; Kabuhayan sa Ganap na Kasarinlan Credit and Savings Cooperative; RAFI Micro-Finance Inc.; and, Rural Bank of Guinobatan. They each received P100,000, which could be used to improve their digital financial services program. The 20 microentrepreneurs, who each received P100,000 and a laptop, were engaged in various businesses such as in food production and processing, poultry, organic products to handicrafts, and weaving and printing.

Total Oct borrowings off P10B of NG’s ₧150-B target

HILE the national government (NG) successfully borrowed over P140 billion from the domestic market in October through sale of debt papers, it still missed its target of P150 billion. The Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) was able to raise P141.641 billion this month or about 94.42 percent of its target amount from the auction of Treasury bills (T-bills) and Treasury bonds (T-bonds). The higher asking yields by investors for short-term T-bills bothered the Treasury from raising its target

borrowing for October. Treasury data showed that it only awarded 86 percent or about P51.641 billion out of its target amount of P60 billion this month. The Treasury did not record a full award across the four tenders of Tbills this month, settling for either mixed or partial awards. The highest amount raised by the Treasury in a single T-bills auction was P14.26 billion, recorded last October 23. The rates for the T-bills were influenced by local and global politi-

cal and economic factors including the escalating war between Israel and Hamas. The possibility of a looming local policy interest rate hike and sudden acceleration in domestic inflation print were factored in by investors in their asking yields. Meanwhile, the Treasury raised the full P90 billion target from three auctions of T-bonds with a value of P30 billion each this month. The Treasury made a full award of its final T-bonds tender on Tuesday that saw total bids reaching P48.872

billion while yields nearly touched the 7 percent territory. The reissued government security had a maturity of 10 years. The Treasury has been struggling to meet its programmed borrowings target from the tender of T-bills and T-bonds this year as investors continuously sought for higher yields amid volatile market conditions. For the whole year, the national government plans to borrow P2.207 trillion with a 75:25 mix in favor of domestic sources. Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas

BPI shortens offer period Norway’s sovereign wealth for peso fixed-rate bonds fund posts losses as financial markets rattled by issues T HE Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) decided to shorten the offer period for its 1.5year Peso Fixed-Rate Bonds due in 2025 on the back of strong demand. In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) last Tuesday, BPI said the offer will now end on October 25, 2023—nine days earlier than the original end date of November 3, 2023. However, the planned issue and listing date of November 13, 2023, remains unchanged. The offer period began last October 17. “The bonds have been met with strong interest from institutional, high-net-worth, and retail clients. As such, BPI will condense the bonds’ offer period to manage the overwhelming demand,” BPI said in a statement. Applications to purchase the bonds require a minimum investment amount of P1 million and additional increments of P100,000. The net proceeds of BPI’s offering will be used for general corporate purposes, including funding source diversification. BPI Capital Corp. (BPI Capital) and ING Bank NV, 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. Last Monday, the lender said the Philippine Competition Commission released to BPI the signed decision clearing the proposed merger between BPI and Robinsons Bank Corp. Pursuant to the comments of the BSP, the BPI said the word “substantially” was deleted under the Special Provisions section of the “Plan of Merger” and replaced with “approved by at least a majority of.” The word “substantially” was, likewise, deleted under Article I of the Articles of Merger. The principal business address of BPI and the date of execution of the “Plan of Merger” and “Articles of Merger” were, likewise, updated. At the Special Stockholders’ Meeting held on 17 January 2023, stockholders representing at least two-thirds of the outstanding shares of BPI approved the merger between BPI and RBC, with BPI as the surviving bank. Cai U. Ordinario

ORWAY’S $1.4 trillion sovereign wealth fund reported a loss of 2.1 percent, or $34 billion, in the third quarter after financial markets were dented by global growth concerns. The world’s biggest single owner of listed companies lost 2.1 percent on stocks in the period and 2.2 percent on fixed-income investments, according to a statement on Tuesday. Overall, the fund’s total return was 0.17 percentage points higher than that of the benchmark against which it measures itself, despite declines in all asset classes. It last reported a quarterly loss a year ago. “You can point to the rising interest rates through the quarter,” Deputy Chief Executive Officer Trond Grande said in an interview Tuesday. Energy stocks performed best, he said, while technology, industrials and consumer discretionary dragged down the return. The loss comes after tech stocks including Apple Inc, Microsoft Corp and NVIDIA Corp helped fuel a 10 percent return for the investor in the first half of the year, a rebound from a year earlier when surging inflation weighed on global markets. Inflation remains problematic, Chief Executive Officer Nicolai Tangen said in August, adding that heat

and extreme weather linked to climate change make it harder to bring prices under control. “We were coming from a long period of ultra-low rates and abundant liquidity,” Grande said Tuesday. “When rates start to rise, that takes some adjustments to business models that were used to the lower rates,” he said. “That, in the shorter run, is what needs to work through the global economy.” Created in the 1990s to invest Norway’s oil and gas revenues abroad, the fund—also known as Norges Bank Investment Management—owns about 1.5 percent of global equities, largely tracking a benchmark index based on a framework handed down by parliament. “We have had 15 or 20 years of globalization and increased cooperation between nations, longer supply chains,” Grande said. “That is now changing— there’s a lot of talk about derisking, about near-shoring and home-shoring. That’s going to have consequences for the companies and their profitability.” The investor has been asked by Norway’s finance ministry to provide advice on whether private equity should be added to its portfolio, a possibility last explored by the fund in 2018. Bloomberg News

JPMorgan CEO criticizes CBs for wrong forecasts

PMorgan Chase & Co. Chief Executive Officer Jamie Dimon said the fact that central banks got financial forecasting “100 percent dead wrong” about 18 months ago should prompt some humility about the outlook for next year. Speaking on a panel at the Future investment Initiative summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dimon voiced doubts that central banks and governments around the world could manage the economic fallout from

rising inflation and slowing global growth. “Fiscal spending is more than it’s ever been in peacetime and there’s this omnipotent feeling that central banks and governments can manage through all this stuff,” he said in the discussion moderated by Carlyle Group Inc. co-founder David Rubenstein. “I am cautious about what will happen next year.” Dimon likened today’s situation to that of the global economy in the

1970s, with high spending and lots of wastage, and brushed off the impact of further rate hikes. “I don’t think it makes a piece of difference whether rates go up 25 basis points or more,” he said. “Whether the whole curve goes up 100 basis points, be prepared for it. I don’t know if it’s going to happen.” On the same panel, Bridgewater Associates CEO Ray Dalio struck a gloomy note, saying his outlook for the global economy in 2024 is “pes-

simistic,” citing several risks such as high levels of public debt, conflicts and disorder. Dimon also slammed policymakers’ approach to tackling climate change, likening current efforts to inefficient “whack-a-mole” with little discernible strategy. “We will make the breakthroughs we need, but its going to be later and longer than we think due to our own basic incompetence,” he said. Bloomberg News

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PHL’s financial assets at ₧17.93T–Allianz SE By Jasper Emmanuel Y. Arcalas @jearcalas

HE country’s financial assets last year rose by nearly 13 percent year-on-year to almost 300 billion euros on the back of higher securities and bank deposits propelled by economic recovery, according to a report by Allianz SE. In its latest Global Wealth Report, the Munich, Germany-headquartered insurer said the Philippines’s financial assets in 2022 reached 297 billion euros (roughly P17.93 trillion), or 12.9-percent higher than the 263 billion euros recorded in 2021. Allianz said the growth in gross financial assets of Philippine households last year was faster than the 7-percent increase recorded in 2021. “The Philippines is one of the very few countries in the world where growth in financial assets accelerated in 2022,” Allianz said. The German financial services multinational attributed the increase in the Philippines’s gross financial assets to expansion in securities and bank deposits. Allianz noted that securities rose by 26.3 percent year-on-year while bank deposits increased by 6.5 percent on an annual basis. “It’s safe to attribute the increase in asset securities and bank deposits to the opening up of the economy

post-pandemic and improvement in the performance of foreign investments, remittances, and capital market,” Allianz PNB Life Chief Financial Officer Fang Siong Chong told the BusinessMirror. “The behavior is reflective of how businesses/individuals are working to recover from the impacts of the pandemic,” Chong added. Despite the increase in gross financial assets, the Philippines remained at the 50th rank in terms of financial assets per capita. The country’s net financial assets were estimated at 199 billion euros as it registered gross liabilities of 99 billion euros. The country’s net financial assets per capita was at 1,750 euros, according to Allianz. “The Philippines remains a developing nation, hence, there’s still a lot of work to be done to improve our economy and move up our ranking,” Chong said. “The growth in financial assets in 2022 is an indication of our economy’s resilience despite the difficulties experienced during the pandemic.” Nonetheless, Chong remained optimistic that the growth in the country’s gross financial assets would be sustained this year. “Historically, economic activities that drive the Philippines are remittances, foreign investments, and capital market performance,” he said.

Reckless imprudence

E cannot let this episode just pass by and be obscured as trivial. For the Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) to contribute billions of their funds to the Maharlika Investment Fund (Maharlika), and soon thereafter hasten to go to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for regulatory relief because their contributions to Maharlika could impair their required capitalization—this is the height of imprudence. DBP President Michael O. de Jesus is reported to have explained: “the relief is related to the fact that under the BSP regulations, our contribution to Maharlika must be deducted from the computation of capital. We seek relief that our contribution not be deducted from capital.” Landbank remitted P50 billion and the DBP remitted P25 billion to Maharlika. View this against Landbank’s authorized capital of P200 billion and DBP’s authorized capital of P35 billion. Sure, Landbank and the DBP are not yet in violation of BSP’s capital requirements, we are assured. In extenuation, the banks reason out that their request for regulatory relief is simply a pre-emptive measure, a defensive anticipatory move to avoid becoming non-compliant, well, just in case. Simply put, it’s asking for exemption from the BSP rules on capital adequacy. Obviously, the fat contributions to Maharlika have weakened the required capitalization position of the two banks where, by the way, government agencies, including LGUs, are required to deposit their funds. BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr.’s comment—warning, really— sounds like a gentle voice but is fraught with meaning: “For now they’re still compliant, even after their contribution to Maharlika. In principle, we can provide forebearance, which allows them not to comply for a period of time. But they will be expected to comply at some point. Forebearance is always temporary.” The board of directors of Landbank and DBP certainly should have known that their act of “investment generosity” to Maharlika would impair or weaken their capitalization, for which reason they had to run for regulatory relief, i.e. run for cover. And if they knew, why did they proceed with this act of imprudence? Let us admit, this is probably a “behest” contribution imposed by “higher authority.” But couldn’t the top management of the banks have

Finex free enterprise Santiago F. Dumlao Jr. raised objections and warnings? Notably, the chairman of Landbank is a former BSP Governor. Of course, the whole idea of the Maharlika Fund and contributions to it are attributable to the genius of Congress. In fact, Congress pushed this special piece of legislation against the opposition of many in academe, business and media. Responding to this issue of capitalization impairment, the President ordered that the Landbank would be exempted from remitting 50 percent of its 2022 cash dividends to the national treasury, as is required of government corporations. But how could this be enough rectification? And now, the President follows through on October 12, 2023, by ordering the suspension of the implementation of the Maharlika Investment Fund’s IRR, (implementing rules and regulations) pending further study. It’s an embarrassing admission of a big mistake somewhere, that could have been avoided in the first place. Bank capitalization requirements have a good reason for being there and are not to be taken lightly. They assure liquidity. They assure financial stability, not just of the bank but of the whole financial system of which they are a part. And nowhere is this more important than when you are a big bank with large deposits and number of depositors. So what shall this mean to Maharlika? And to Landbank and DBP top management? And to the President’s pet project? As we write this piece (October 19, 2023), the President, on his departure for a foreign trip, is reported to be surprised with the news reporting that the Maharlika’s implementation is suspended. On the contrary, he says, Maharlika is moving on. They just have discovered some other things about Maharlika that can be improved. Ano ba yan kuya? Santiago F. Dumlao is the Secretary General of the Association of Credit Rating Agencies in Asia and chairman of the market governance board and market policy committee of the Philippine Dealing & Exchange Corp. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the BusinessMirror’s.

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US Veep Kamala Harris lauds Fil-Am awards body By Malou Talosig-Bartolome UNITED States Vice President Kamala Harris hailed the community of more than 4 million FilipinoAmericans for their “enduring” shared history with America, as she congratulated the 25 outstanding Filipinos and Fil-Ams who will be honored this year. The honorees for The Outstanding Filipino Awards (TOFA) will be led by former Vice President Leni Robredo for courage of conviction. The other TOFA awards this year include: n TV broadcast journalist Jessica Soho, whose newsmagazine program Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho enjoys a global audience n Filipina nurse in the United Kingdom May Parsons for administering the breakthrough Covid-19 vaccine in December 2020 n Miss Universe R'Bonney Gabriel for women empowerment n Broadway run of Here Lies Love with an allFilipino cast n Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo of the Philippine Supreme Court “Our nation’s shared history with the Philippines is enduring. The Filipino community has made America stronger, more prosperous, and more vibrant for many generations. President Biden and I recognize the remarkable contributions of the Filipino community, and we are dedicated to advancing social justice and securing opportunity for all,” Harris said in a message. In her message, Harris acknowledged TOFA as a momentous event for honoring members of the Filipino community “who have broken barriers and inspired millions of people across our nation and around the world.” She named California Attorney General Rob Bonta, the first Filipino American to serve in the role, as one of the community’s outstanding members. Bonta is now one of the highest ranking FilAm officials in the US. Harris also served as California attorney general from 2011 to 2017 before she became senator of California and now, as the second highest ranking US official. Bonta will be joining TOFA gala as keynote speaker. Headlining the event for the 10th time in TOFA history is acclaimed talk show host, Dr. Boy Abunda. “To the awardees, thank you for proving that— through big dreams, hard work, and unwavering optimism—we can secure a future filled with prosperity for us all. I am proud to join you in celebrating Filipino American History Month this October, as well as the incredible contributions of members of the Filipino community whose creativity, voices and vision have given us joy and blazed a trail for generations to come. On behalf of our nation, thank you for all that you do,” Harris concluded in her special message to TOFA. The 13th annual TOFA will be held October 27 for the first time in Los Angeles, at the Zipper Hall in downtown LA. The venue is across the popular Walt Disney Concert Hall. Coproduced by Starlink Promotions, the event will be copresented by the National Federation of Filipino American Associations, whose national chairman Brendan Flores serves as TOFA board chair this year.

Avoiding quiet promotion

HERE will come a time in a leader’s life when they need to ask their teams to do more because of extraordinary demands from clients, or when there are sudden changes in the organization. This is understandable and will require a leader to prioritize and delegate properly. But when work demands pile up and leaders give more work to team members simply because they can take in more, this becomes a problem. This workplace issue is called quiet promotion. This happens when a team member is forced to take on more work but without any change in job position or remuneration. While there are instances when team members are given stretch assignments to develop their professional skills, quiet promotion happens because of lack of planning on the part of the team manager. This normally happens when somebody resigns and the workload is given to one team member who now has more work on his plate, but without the title they deserve or the compensation that goes with it. The worst part is when the team member takes on the task as part of their regular workload, and no new manpower is added to the team. If not addressed, quiet promotion affects team engagement and morale. It increases dissatisfaction within the team, which will foment a toxic work environment because a team member is forced to extend work hours to meet deadlines. If the work environment continues to be toxic, it can lead to

burnout. In the end, it takes a toll on the team member who is forced to take on more tasks, which will lead to decreased productivity, or even attrition. If you are handling a team, you need to draw the line between pushing someone for them to improve, and forcing them to take on roles they were not meant to play. It all depends on how work is equitably distributed among your team members. If somebody resigns, evaluate who can take on the work temporarily but proactively work with your human resources to look for a replacement as soon as possible. If needed, pick up the slack for your team and be the role model of how it is to take one for the team. Set clear expectations on tasks you assign. When asking someone to take on more work, both of you should have an agreement on how long it will go, and what is required from each other. You need to agree on how the added work benefits them in the long run. If the added work will take some time, you need to be prepared to reflect it in their performance evaluation, and how their contribution ultimately benefits the entire team. This should translate to additional incentives based on your organization’s performance management system. If your organization does not have one, you can agree on other incentives like additional overtime pay, training opportunities, or more vacation leaves. An important aspect of setting clear expectations is to involve your team in workload delegation. Give them the opportunity to choose, which tasks they can take on as additional workload. This will help them take ownership of the tasks, and help them recognize how they significantly contribute to the team’s goals. Your team needs to know how workload is managed within the team so that when they are given additional tasks, they will understand why. Effective workload management helps you avoid overtaxing just one person because work is distributed equitably, and your team can negotiate for tasks they can own. This way, you become accountable to your team on the

workload, and you do not unnecessarily overburden only a few. Part of workload management is giving them uninterrupted time for focused work. Pockets of conversation among your team is a healthy indicator that they are getting to know each other better and developing good working relations. Give them the liberty to manage their own time as long as they turn in what they need to accomplish for the day. But encourage your team to have a dedicated time where everyone can just focus on the work they need to do and leave them uninterrupted during that time. One thing you can do so your team will have more time to do their work is to shorten meetings. There are a lot of meetings I have attended where it could have been just an e-mail. If you are going to ask more from your team, you need to give them the time to do the work you assigned. I had a manager before who would meet with us the entire afternoon and after the meeting would ask me for updates on tasks he assigned at the start of the meeting. Similarly, how can your team do their work when you keep them in meetings for most of their workday? When you have established clear and equitable workloads, you need to regularly communicate it so that everyone knows what everyone else is doing. Updating your team in a quick meeting, or huddle, keeps everyone in the loop and helps the team understand what they need to do to move forward. The huddle can also tell you which team member needs more time for coaching so you can set a different meeting just for them and leave the other team members to do their work. Ultimately, quiet promotion reflects a leader’s inability to manage workload and their inadequate leadership skills. A significant role of a leader is to ensure that their team’s work environment allows them to succeed, and to give their team the reward, position, or renumeration they deserve. When leaders do not acknowledge their team’s effort, team members will look for it somewhere else. n

mental health and behavioral science: 1. Make room for your past. Trust that you handled your life the best you could with the tools you had. You have not only gone through hard times, you have also grown through them, too. 2. Prioritize yourself. Genuine personal development comes from looking inward. Know and look after yourself. It is not selfish, it is science.

3. Become aware using a holistic approach. Reflect on how you can get closer to the person you want to become physically, emotionally, intellectually, socially, environmentally, financially, occupationally, and spiritually. 4. Limit social comparison. Theodore Roosevelt once said: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” It is valuable to be inspired by others. But be mindful that the trajectory forward will not be the same for everyone. 5. Establish healthy habits consistently. Commit to one activity that will bring you closer to your goal. Do it every day. This will maintain your drive and give you a sense of fulfillment. 6. Embrace the discomfort. Being comfortable does not help you develop. If it does not challenge you, it will not transform you. 7. Notice your allies. Some people may not agree with your choices. Do not let them deter you. Real allies want to see you living your best life. 8. Build the team to support the dream. There are guaranteed roadblocks, times of low motivation, and other curveballs. When your foundation is solid, you create the space needed to improve. 9. Take it slow. Give yourself permission to rest along the way. After all, growth is a lifelong quest— not a destination. 10. Celebrate your progress. Can you handle or approach situations better today than you would have just a year ago? Acknowledge even the smallest wins.

10 ideas to support personal growth THE human condition naturally desires growth. There is a constant wish and pressure to be more and do more. Resiliency and wellness scholar and speaker Robyne Hanley-Dafoe, EdD, the author of Calm Within the Storm, explains that persons tend to feel dissatisfied, unfulfilled, and even unhappy if they are not learning. “To be able to function in a world that is constantly evolving, we need to be able to adapt,” she states. She likewise recognizes that despite the variety of materials on topics such as healthy eating, fitness, relationship repair, stress and emotion regulation, organization, and time management, one might still find it hard to figure out where to start. “Change is complex and there is no one-size-fits-all solution,” she admits. “We know that knowing better does not equal doing better.” Hanley-Dafoe, an award-winning instructor and adjunct professor at Trent University in Canada, emphasizes that one must trust the process in their pursuit to reach their truest potential. “It is important to prepare yourself for the journey ahead—and all its messiness and beauty—by building the proper foundation on which to base your change,” she says. She also underlines the significance of selfcompassion and grace. “Instead of drowning in all the things you are told you should be doing and could be doing, my invitation is for you to pause and reflect,” she recommends. “Take inventory of all the things you are already doing

right.” To guide the general public in this venture, the Benilde Well-Being Center (BWC) of the De La SalleCollege of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) shares the expert’s methodology toward self-growth. Here are the 10 ideas as published on www. psychologytoday.com, one of the world’s largest publishing enterprises exclusively dedicated to

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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FOUNDEVER™ IS RED CROSS HALL OF FAMER

COMMITMENT AND COMPASSION: Foundever™ receives the Hall of Fame Award from the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) in recognition of their 13-year partnership in Baguio. Pictured are Human Resource Business Partners at Foundever, Haidee Sanjorjo and Lisa Bajo, receiving the award from members of the PRC team.

OUNDEVER™, a global leader in the customer experience (CX) industry, has received the Hall of Fame Award for its 13-year partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and its consistent promotion of voluntary blood donation in Baguio City. The Foundever hubs in Baguio have regularly partnered with PRC to hold bloodletting activities. Over the years, the Foundever associates have donated a

total of 1,202 units of blood. “We are honored to receive this prestigious recognition,” said Foundever Human Resource Business Partner (HRBP) Haidee Sanjorjo during the awarding ceremony. “This award is a testament to our commitment in giving back and making a lasting impact to the communities where we are present.” According to the PRC, the primary beneficiaries of the blood donations were

patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). During the awarding ceremony last August, a CKD patient shared how blood donations have helped manage her condition. This showed how vital a unit of blood was to patients like her. Also present at the awarding ceremony was Foundever HRBP Lisa Bajo. “Our partnership with the PRC has been transformative, and we’re proud to be part of their cause,” she said. “This recognition motivates us to do even more for our community and reinforces our belief that businesses should be a force for good.” The company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) goes beyond its partnership with the PRC. Foundever has launched several CSR programs which aim to empower their associates to regularly engage in volunteer work and charitable activities including tree-planting, plogging and coastal clean-up activities. Aside from activities promoting environmental sustainability, Foundever frequently promotes accessible education with several initiatives including book donations, via their Big MAX Book Drive for the Library Renewal Partnership, and language and career readiness training sessions in partnership with Children International Incorporated, among others. Foundever has consistently proven that their commitment to social good goes beyond lip service, and their holistic approach to corporate citizenship has underscored their belief that positive change starts from within.

Crystal Blue Exec receives ‘Man of Exemplary Influence’ award from Philippine Cancer Society

N a remarkable tribute to his outstanding commitment and selfless contributions, Richard Cariño was recently honored with the prestigious “Man of Exemplary Influence” award by the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS) on September 27, 2023. This esteemed recognition acknowledges his remarkable achievements, including his role as the past president of the Rotary Club of Makati GEMS District 3830 and his inventive Healing Pool, which utilizes minerals to treat pool water without harsh chemicals. Cariño also serves as the second-generation president of Crystal Blue Enterprises. It is worth noting that his entrepreneurial journey started when he ventured out on his own, separating from his family’s pool construction business established in the 1970s. He founded Crystal Blue Enterprises 20 years ago. Known for his unwavering dedication to public service despite demanding corporate commitments, Cariño has consistently stood out as a humanitarian leader. During his Rotary Club presidency, he spearheaded initiatives like distributing water bucket filters to

120 flooded barangays in Isabela, running a “Christmas in July” gift-giving campaign for the children of Covid-19 front-liners, and sending laptops to Mindanao to bridge the digital divide. This innovative spirit also extended to his invention of the Healing Pool, replacing harsh chemicals with therapeutic minerals and active oxygen. Apart from his exemplary contributions to the Rotary Club, Cariño’s innovation shone through his invention of the Healing Pool, a device that utilizes minerals like magnesium, potassium, copper, and sulfur for their therapeutic properties and active oxygen to treat swimming pool water, replacing harsh chemicals and eliminating skin allergens. Cariño’s commitment to public service, his past presidency at the Rotary Club of Makati GEMS District 3830, his Healing Pool invention, and his leadership at Crystal Blue Enterprises exemplify a true Man of Exemplary Influence. Through his actions and dedication, Richard has left an indelible mark on society, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps and make a meaningful difference in the world.

PASCO, prime mover of micro-retail sector, to hold national convention

HE Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners, Inc. (PASCO), an organization of microretailers in the country, is organizing a national convention this October. With the theme, “Teknolohiya sa Kaunlaran ng Kabuhayan at Kalikasan”, the convention aims: 1) To re-launch and recognize PASCO as an organization of micro-retailers; 2) To learn and be informed on business trends and digital e-commerce; 3) To strengthen environment-responsive micro-retailers ready in the new normal; and 4) To build a network of support to PASCO chapters and members for sustaining and growing the micro-retail sector. The Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners or PASCO is an organization of micro-retailers nationwide. It was founded by graduates of the Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources (STAR) Program of Coca-Cola Philippines and TESDA in 2016. In 2017,

it was registered as a non-profit organization with the SEC. Since its establishment, PASCO and its officers built their advocacies and implemented projects to help and empower its members. T he last convention organized by PASCO was held in August 2019, months before the world was thrown into a state of uncertainty. The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in early 2020 brought unprecedented challenges not only to the micro-retail industry but also to all businesses in general. However, against all odds, PASCO members and other entrepreneurs have found innovative ways to adapt and survive. The upcoming convention will serve as a platform for micro-retailers to share stories of resilience and success and to meet and connect with suppliers and partners. The participants can look forward to a series of insightful discussions, engaging workshops, and networking op-

portunities. The convention will feature distinguished speakers from various industries who not only survived but thrived in the face of adversity. They will assist in navigating new strategies to aid the everchanging landscape of micro-retailing. In addition to the informative sessions, the micro-retail convention will also showcase booths, where participants can explore the latest products, services, and technologies for microretailers. This will be a unique opportunity for businesses to connect with suppliers, discover new trends, and forge partnerships. Supporting the event are Coca-Cola, Gcash. BPI BanKo, Puregold, The Zeal Coaches, Kopiko, Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies Incorporated (BEST), Meralco Bizz, Marca Pina, Mondelez, Lemon square, Universal Robina Corporation (URC), Blue Star Printing Shop and Prulife UK.

OUT-OF-SCHOOL YOUTHS COMPLETE MASONRY COURSE. With the support of Aboitiz Power Corporation subsidiary Hedcor and in partnership with Aboitiz Foundation, 20 out-of-school youths from Barangay Lingion, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon completed their masonry course. The beneficiaries finished their month-long TESDA-accredited National Certification I at the local Public Employment Service Office Municipal Training Center where they learned how to prepare masonry materials and perform basic masonry works. The initiative aligns with the UN SDG of delivering “Decent Work and Economic Growth” as it sought to open up opportunities for livelihood and support for families and the community. The scholars’ first project was the construction of a hand washing facility for Gaboc Elementary School in Manolo Fortich which was meant to address the need for proper hygiene infrastructure in educational institutions.

Enjoy Nostalgic Dopamine Art with Pac-Man-inspired Pop x Hyperrealism acrylic on canvas series

RTIST Carlo Tanseco presents yet another series of paintings that promises to take us on a stunning visual journey into our reservoirs of nostalgia in his 7h solo exhibit until November 4, 2023 at the J Studio Gallery. The show is doubly significant as it is also the gallery’s 10th anniversary offering. Aptly called Waka Waka, the series features acrylic on canvas artworks depicting the artist’s take on the beloved legendary world of video game Pac-Man. In what has become his signature painting style, Tanseco meticulously detailed the all-too familiar maze and super-imposed hyper realistic images that are closely linked to the game’s different spell-binding levels and origins. Tanseco’s art has been said to have the ability to transport one to another world. In Waka Waka each painting becomes a portal to the past: the image of the classic yellow insatiable circle gleefully chomping its way through a maze filled with vibrant ghostly adversaries and dreamy vivid rewards, inviting art enthusiasts to relive the thrill of their gaming youth, bringing in the rush of countless hours spent chasing high scores, and resurrecting the thrill of the classic arcade (or home console!) game. The artist admits he embarks on a nostalgic trek with every series of artworks he creates, relishing his creative flow while re-experiencing the joy of losing track of time exploring different worlds in his formative years. It was no different for this series. “I grew up playing and loving this game, its characters,

its challenges, elements, and even the back story of this arcade favorite,” he shares. And just as national history, pop culture greats, magical realism novels, and robots of his previous works, the enduring worldwide and multi-generational appeal of this computer game must also have taken part in the development of many a mind explorer among today’s art enthusiasts. Creating intricate and elaborate designs with a paintbrush to serve as backdrop is no easy task, especially in today’s copy-paste digital age, but it’s a phase in Tanseco’s painting process that he enjoys. “It has a Zen effect on me,” the artist who has been known as a perfectionist reveals. Like his past works, the repetitive pattern in each canvas in this set is as much of an eye-drawer as the finely detailed images superimposed. Tanseco explains,” the main element of the game is the maze. I have always been drawn to the form of the maze and labyrinth, often drawing them as a kid. I think it’s because of the thrill and sense of adventure they represent, for their structure, and in this case, their graphic nature. I like the idea of the quest that comes with the stories of mazes in historical myths. I also liked that it symbolized that the choices you make, as simple as ‘do I turn left or right’, can spell your success or failure. Just like the maze which is life.” He adds, “Another element of the game that is iconic to me are the fruits that the player, as Pac-Man, must eat for extra points. For me, they were irresistible. I

ADAM and Eve (The First Fruit) - 48 x 36 inches

have chosen the fruits as one of the main elements to highlight in these works. So, most of my paintings show a re-interpretation of the game’s maze and various fruits as goals.” The hyper-realistic images on some pieces depict parallelism which Tanseco had made between the game’s various elements—and with life—while others pay homage to the history of the game’s

creation. They represent where the artist’s mind free associates the game’s memorable aspects with familiar real-life figures. IYKYK, as they say—lovers of the game would get it at the very least, but even more interestingly, these captivate and prod one into a unique explanation or even spark a debate. Just like the sold-out paintings and installations in his past shows, the artworks in Waka Waka don’t stop at being depictions of a pop culture icon; they are a transcendental experience that taps into the very essence of nostalgia. Scientific research has revealed that seeing an image, especially one that evokes positive emotions, triggers a rush of the happy hormone Dopamine. One can argue that choosing to be enveloped by this feeling, especially in the past years that we have spent relatively unprecedented periods of time at home has spurned a growing popularity. The trend of filling personal spaces with pieces that resonate with one emotionally, reflect one’s personality, spark happy recollection, or as trend forecasters have described,” reclaim the jolt of jubilation once felt in possessing so much unabashed freedom,” is currently called to be more than a passing phase. As dopamine fashion and decor have found a captivating niche in the world of art, Tanseco’s paintings have definitely transcended mere wall décor, in this particular case, becoming windows to the past that flood the viewer with feelings of happiness and yearning for that stage when joy meant hours of chasing rewards,

skillfully capturing the essence of a cherished life phase, where Pac-Man was king of the arcades and chasing ghosts and gobbling pellets was the ultimate source of enjoyment. In creating and completing the 17 Waka Waka paintings and nine sculptural objet d’art, I relived the many years of my life I frequented the video arcades in Greenhills and Makati, particularly playing Pac-Man, and even more particularly the moments when the fruit which corresponded to bonuses appeared. These moments were fleeting, and I had a second to gobble each bonus up before it disappeared—sometimes at the risk of losing a life. I guess this attraction to acquiring this fruit before it disappears reveals a side of me that seizes the moments or the opportunities life offers despite some possible risks. This collection brought me back to happy times when, at the cost of a peso coin, you are transported into an 8-bit universe (not yet metaverse) where you lose yourself in the thrill of an adventure before you go home and do your homework,” Tanseco shares. Grownups at the heyday of the famous game would shake their heads and wonder if their kids’ brains were getting gobbled up while absorbed in the intricacies of levelling up. That is, until perhaps they themselves got hooked, because those moments had to mean more than blinking lights and managing tricky maneuvering of joysticks. The artist muses, “That’s what Pac-Man meant to me then and now, in retrospect. What did it mean for you?”

BusinessMirror

Editor: Tet Andolong

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 B7

Public-private partnership to boost development of green building By Rizal Raoul S. Reyes

Last of two parts

anglao, Bohol—One of the highlights of the Building Green 2023 Conference, organized by the Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC) and held in Modala Resort was the update on the Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE), the Philippine Green Building Council’s (PHILGBC) green building rating system, ANZ/PH, the net zero certification program, and the Health and Well-being for Buildings Program. Engr. Reniel English presented the latest update on BERDE, ANZ/ PH, the net zero certification program, and the Health and Wellbeing for Buildings Program during Session 5. In his presentation, English provided attendees with an overview of the latest PHILGBC green building certification programs, offering insights into their development process and the benefits they bring to the industry. Green building advocates were able

to get and learn about the most recent updates and advancements in sustainable building practices attended the session. Arch. Rowena Ramos, a member on the committee draft of BERDE v5, told the audience that the development of BERDE follows a robust comment process to ensure stakeholder input and continual improvement of the system. By engaging industry professionals and stakeholders, she says the draft

Arch. Rowena Ramos

has been approved by members of the PHILGBC and now serves as a council draft. The milestone is an important step toward finalizing the BERDE v5.0.0 framework. Now, Ramos said the PHILGBC wants to get comments from the rest of the industry for their valuable feedback. “We are excited to showcase the latest developments in our green building certification programs at the Building Green 2023 Conference. Through our BERDE rating system, ANZ/PH net zero program, and Health and Well-being for Buildings Program, we continue to lead the way in promoting sustainability and advancing the green building industry in the Philippines,” Ramos explained. “By engaging industry stakeholders and encouraging their

Engr. Reniel English

feedback, we are confident that these programs will drive positive change and contribute to a more sustainable future for all,” Ramos added. English said the latest green building certification programs and the development process for BERDE presented during the Building Green 2023 manifests PHILGBC’s a commitment to fostering sustainable practices in the industry. “These programs offer a comprehensive framework and guidance for developers, designers, and building owners to achieve sustainable and net-zero goals while prioritizing human health and well-being,” English said. “PHILGBC’s a green building certification programs play a significant role in driving industry

transformation and promoting sustainable building practices in the Philippines. BERDE provides a holistic approach to green building certification, taking into account various environmental, social, and economic factors,” English added. Meanwhile, the ANZ/PH program focuses on net-zero energy and carbon emissions, enabling buildings to achieve a high level of energy efficiency and sustainability. Moreover, the Health and Well-being for Buildings Program emphasizes creating spaces that enhance occupant health and productivity. Ramos pointed out that the presentation of the Committee Draft of BERDE v5.0.0 for council comment epitomizes PHILGBC’s commitment to a participatory approach in building a consensus,

developing the system, and ensuring that the voices of industry professionals and stakeholders are heard. “The development of BERDE is a collaborative effort, and we value the input and feedback from the industry,” said Ramos. “We encourage all stakeholders to contribute and provide valuable insights that will help shape the final version of BERDE v5.0.0 and enhance its effectiveness in driving sustainable building practices.” Established in 2007, PHILGBC seeks to consolidate and be a national movement promoting green building practices towards mitigating climate change. As a member of the World Green Building Council, PHILGBC actively contributes to global efforts to create a sustainable built environment.

₧500,000 cash prize up for grabs in Avida Sta. Lucia Land cements partnership with DOTr, LRTA

South Park District Mural Competition

staggering P500,000 cash prize awaits a team of talented visual artists who will bring their creativity to life on a massive canvas as Avida Land marks its 33rd anniversary with a creative showdown in their South Park District Mural Competition. Envisioned with the theme “Part City, Part Nature, Pure South,” this competition underscores Av ida’s commitment to creating inspired living spaces that harmoniously merge urban comfort with the vibrance of natural landscapes. All participating artists must adhere closely to the designated theme when submitting their entries. Apart from the cash bounty, the winning team will get the chance to leave their indelible mark on South Park District’s captivating landscape. “In our drive to make South Park District a destination, we want to showcase the talents of Filipino artists,” Tess Tatco, Marketing Head of Avida Land Corp., said of the exciting opportunity the mural competition offers participants. “The winning mural will take up a highly visible section in the district. It is our hope that this Pinoy-made art will serve as a strong draw for visitors who wish to appreciate the creative masterpiece, first-hand.” Located in Alabang in Muntinlupa, South Park District is a 6.6-hectare master-planned community that encompasses the Avida Towers Ardane and Avida Towers Altura, the sprawling Central Park, the South Park Center mall, and the South Park Corporate Center. Known for its thoughtful design and collection of art installations by Reginald Yuson, South Park District is now ready for a stunning mural created by Filipino talents. The competition is open to all amateur and professional artists aged 18

A P500,000 cash prize awaits the winner of the Avida South Park District Mural Design Competition. and up, and residing in the Philippines. Each participant must form a team with one group leader and a minimum of nine members. Each group must submit a digital copy of their proposed mural design in PDF format along with their group details and design rationale. The allocated space for the mural is 20.5 (H) x 40 (W) meters. The entries must be eye-catching and Instagram-worthy. Participants are encouraged to include interactive features in their design to further entice the public to come see the work. Completion of the mural design must be achievable within fourteen working days. All submissions must be sent to spdmural@gmail.com on or before November 3, 2023. From the pool of initial applicants, 10 groups will be shortlisted as finalists. The finalists will be announced on November 10, 2023. These 10 groups will then present their proposed designs to a panel of judges, including Avida officials and representatives, who will then select the winning design and greenlight it to begin production at the South Park District.

The winning artists will be given a 20.5m x 40m space to work with. Davies Paints will provide materials to the winning team. “We encourage all gifted artists to participate in the Avida South Park District Mural Competition,” said Ms. Tatco, who forsees their art turning into a must-see attraction in the south. “We are thus thrilled to give them this opportunity to showcase their work.” Celebrate Avida’s 33rd anniversary by leaving your artistic imprint on South Park District. This competition is not just about creating the best mural art; it’s a chance to be part of a visionary movement that blends urban living and creative passion. Join us in transforming South Park District into a living canvas of art and inspired living! For more infor mation on the competition guidelines, please visit htt ps://www.avidaland.com /newsand-events/south-park-district-muralcompetition/ Avida Land is a residential brand of Ayala Land, the Philippines’ leading developer of sustainable estates offering a diverse mix of properties such as residential, retail, office, hotels, and leisure developments that support local economic growth and nation-building.

t was another solid testament to Sta. Lucia Land’s steadfast commitment to help enhance and uplift the local community. On Wednesday, the publicly listed property developer signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) to formally establish the partnership of the three stakeholders for the construction and development of certain parts of the LRT Line-2 East Extension. Held at the lay-by connecting LRT 2 Marikina-Pasig Station and Building 1 of the Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall, the signing ceremony was graced by Transportation Assistant Secretary for Railways Jorjette Aquino, LRTA Administrator Atty. Hernandez T. Cabrera, LRTA Project Manager Engr. Joseph Dexter Buenconsejo, SLI President Exequiel Robles, SLI Chairman Vicente Santos and SLI Director Orestes Santos, among other officials. Under the MOA, a parcel of land belonging to SLI which is the publicly listed arm of the Sta. Lucia Group was used for a lay-by area of the LRT2 East Extension and for permanent and temporary work activities in relation to the construction of the project. In turn, the LRTA, along with the DOTr, constructed an interconnection facility access that links the LRT-2 Marikina-Pasig Station to the office spaces at Sta. Lucia Business Center and to the Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall.

Another milestone “We consider this event as another milestone for the company. It serves as a testament that we, at Sta. Lucia Land, continue to look for ways to improve the lives not only of our homeowners but also the communities where we are present,” Mr. Robles said. “Ease of travel, convenient access to public transport, as well as safety and comfort are what we hope to provide the people with this interconnec-

Present at the MOA signing were (from left) Engr. Joseph Dexter Buenconsejo - LRTA Project Manager, Atty. Hernando T. Cabrera-LRTA Administrator, ASec. Jorjette B. Aquino-Department of Transportation for Railways, Mr. Exequiel D. Robles-Sta. Lucia Land Inc. President, Mr. Vicente Santos-Sta. Lucia Land Inc. Chairman, Mr. Orestes Santos-Sta. Lucia Land Inc. Director

The DOTr, LRTA and Sta. Lucia Land signed a MOA to formally establish the partnership of the three stakeholders for the construction and development of certain parts of the LRT Line-2 East Extension. tion access facility or direct pathway that readily connects the commuting public to the Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall and Sta. Lucia Business Center,” he added. Opened in April this year, the direct link currently provides convenient access to the LRT-2, which covers 13 stations, spanning 17 kilometers from Rizal to Manila, and has two sub connection stations in Cubao for the MRT, and in Recto for LRT 1. It serves an estimated 30,000 commuters daily.

Pioneer players “As one of the pioneer players in the Pasig-Cainta area, Sta. Lucia Land has long been giving residents in the eastern corridor of the metro access to a convenient and safe shopping experience. With the opening of the interconnection facility, we will be able to further provide mallgoers and commuters a safer way to reach their destination,” added Sta. Lucia Land

chairman Vicente Santos. For decades now, trusted developer Sta. Lucia Land has been known to create master-planned, livable communities not only city centers but across provinces, including the so-called fringe areas, providing Filipinos with subdivisions, lakeside communities, golf courses and country clubs, hotels, resorts and condominiums. As one of the country’s leading developers, it has always been at the forefront of providing modern, convenient lifestyle not only to its residents, but also to the valued customers of its mall and office, as well as the public. “You can expect Sta. Lucia Land to continuously work with the government and other private stakeholders to further enhance the lives of the people. We remain true to our promise of helping build a better tomorrow for the Filipinos by creating world class communities across the country,” Mr. Robles concluded.

Sports F

Team Obiena: Publicly apologize or we’ll sue

BusinessMirror

By Josef Ramos

B8 | Wednes

RNEST JOHN “EJ” OBIENA wants Frenchwoman Anaïs Poumarat Lavillenie to publicly apologize for her damaging Facebook comment against the world No. 2 pole vaulter. “And we’ll no longer file a case against her,” Jim Lafferty, Obiena’s confidante, told BusinessMirror on Tuesday. “If this simple and valid request is granted, this case shall be closed as far as EJ is concerned.” Lavillenie—herself a former pole vaulter—is the wife of Rio 2012 Olympics men’s pole vault gold medalist from France, Renaud Lavillenie. She commented in the Facebook page Vaulter Magazine-Vaulter Club Inc. on October 13 that Obiena and his coach, Vitaly Petrov, are doping. The comment has been deleted but Obiena’s team managed to take screenshots. “EJ has no desire to prolong this debate and to disrupt in any way his Olympic preparation—nor does he wish to disrupt the close-knit dynamics of the pole vault community,” Lafferty said. “Accountability is important, and a proper apology and retraction is an acceptable form of accountability,” he added. Lafferty said that Obiena is “a class act in this situation”but is compelled to respond in a strong manner to protect his reputation. “Staying silent given who the accuser is, was never an option,” Lafferty said. “Obiena has requested a formal apology and retraction to be published by his accuser, exonerating both EJ and his Coach Vitaly Petrov.” Lafferty said that a legal option in multiple jurisdictions is on the table if Lavillenie doesn’t publicly apologize. “The legal advice given thus far suggests the evidence at hand, including voluntary polygraph and EyeDetect tests, supports a positive legal outcome for EJ,” Lafferty said. “It’s clear that EJ Obiena is a clean athlete who has built his success on hard work and hard work alone.” Obiena and Petrov are back training in Formia after spending a week of functional training in Dubai. Obiena also had a brief Manila vacation from the Hangzhou Asian Games where he won gold in record fashion.

Rick Olivares bleachersbrew@ gmail.com

Bleachers’ Brew

Wiser to replace Brownlee–now

S I write this, there is no word yet on whether or not Justin Brownlee has been conclusively found guilty of doping. Likewise, what punishment awaits him—if guilty beyond doubt—has remained unknown. In short, everything is still up in the air days after Brownlee had tested positive for taking a cannabis-laced medication. It was found in his urine sample after he spearheaded Gilas Pilipinas’70-60 victory over Jordan in the battle for the Asian Games basketball gold on October 6 in Hangzhou, China. While cannabis, a marijuana derivative, is no longer banned in the National Basketball Association as many parts in America now consider the use of marijuana legal, not in competitions sanctioned by the Fiba (World Basketball Federation). The Asian Games is under Fiba rules. It might be too obvious to say that Brownlee took the cannabis-laced medicine to ease the pain that bothered him after having undergone a bone spur surgery before the Asiad. Cannabis is a known muscle relaxant. Initially, Brownlee’s camp had wanted to submit his Sample B urine to contest the first test. But Alfrancis Chua, the Gilas team manager, was not amenable to it. “The Sample B comes from the same urine specimen where Brownlee tested positive, so it will only be an exercise in futility if we do it again,” said Chua, also the team manager of Ginebra San Miguel, Brownlee’s squad in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). Brownlee, who is vacationing with his family in the US, will remain the Ginebra import in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup set to start on November 5. “He’ll be with us whether he can play or not,” Chua said. “But just in case he gets suspended, we’ll look for a replacement.” Recall that when Kiefer Ravena of NLEX tested positive for doping in 2018, he was suspended for 18 months. So, it is almost as sure as night follows day that Brownlee is going to be canned. When, and for how long, that is the question. It might be wiser than wise then for Ginebra to replace Brownlee now as suiting him up for Ginebra’s first game on November 17 against Converge might incur the ire of Fiba. Chua would not want to jeopardize Brownlee’s career, let alone the fate of Ginebra, which is defending the crown it had won valiantly against the Hong Kong Bay Area Dragons in seven dramatic games. If Brownlee plays and he gets suspended next by the Fiba, that would result to forfeiture of Ginebra games that the import had played in. Painful. As unbearable as losing all your money to a scammer, including the last peso in your pocket. To play or not to play? You need not be a rocket scientist to know the correct answer.

day, October 25, 2023 mirror_sports@yahoo.com.ph sports@businessmirror.com.ph Editor: Jun Lomibao

Para wheelchair racer bags silver for Team PHL R Ernie Gawilan swims his way to the Philippines’ first of two bronze medals on Sunday night. PSC Media Pool

UNNING a brilliant tactical race, Jerrold Mangliwan surged past South Korea’s Jeon Jeongdae in the last 30 meters to snatch the silver medal in the men’s 100-meter T52 of the 4th Hangzhou Asian Para Games at the Huanglong Sports Stadium in China on Tuesday. Racing on the outside lane, Mangliwan bided his time before putting on a burst of speed in flashing past the South Korean in a personal best time of 18.65 for his first medal in the continental meet after placing fourth in the same event in the 2018 edition in Jakarta. Japan’s Ito Tatsuya retained his title with a new games record of 17.41 seconds, while Jeon (18.67), settled for the bronze in Mangliwan’s fourth straight Asian Para Games appearance backed by Philippine Sports Commission. “I thank God for this opportunity. First time to get a medal in the Asian Para Games, I couldn’t ask for more,” said the delighted athlete of his unexpected silver in the event that he acknowledged was not his strong suit. “Our hard work with coach Joel [Deriada] and Bernard [Ebuen] finally bore fruit,” added the Tokyo Paralympic Games veteran, who dedicated his silver

to cousin Handsome Magdiwang, who figured in an accident back home. Ernie Gawilan and Gary Bejino produced a pair of third-place finishes in swimming on Monday night for the country’s first medals in the games. The legless Gawilan clocked two minutes and 52.82 seconds in checking in third behind two formidable Chinese foes, who both swam with one arm and two legs. Huang Xianquan clocked 2:48.34 to pocket the gold while compatriot Yang Huaqiang (2:50.73) settled for silver in the event in front of a banner hometown crowd at the ultra-modern 6,000-seat facility. A Tokyo Paralympic Games veteran like Gawilan, Bejino, who lost one arm and one leg after being electrocuted at a young age, also had to play third wheel behind two Chinese bets, copping the bronze with a time of 1:12. 76 in the men’s 100-meter freestyle S6 finals. Encouraged by his performance, Mangliwan, who won two golds in the Cambodian ASEAN Para Games last June, is expected to figure prominently for another medal in his pet event, the men’s 400-meter T52 contest, scheduled later in the week. Hoping to add to the country’s medal tally later in the

evening was swimmer Gawilan, who finished a strong second in the heats in the men’s 400-meter freestyle S7 event with a time of 5:11.16 behind Singaporean topnotcher Soong Too Wei (5:09.82). Gawilan was apparently preserving his strength for the finals since he owns the current Asian Para Games mark of 4:51.00 when he won the event in the Indonesian capital five years ago. Also making it to the finals of the men’s 100-meter backstroke S14 event Tuesday night was APG rookie Joseph Ariel Alegarbes, who clocked 1:01.16 in finishing sixth among the eight finalists in the event. On the other hand, Cambodia ASEAN Para Games quadruple gold medalist Angel Mae Otom finished a distant fourth in the women’s 200-meter freestyle S5 finals in a time of 3:32.34. Otom’s teammates, Marco Tinamisan (men’s 100-meter freestyle S4) and Roland Sabio (men’s 200-meter IM SM9) failed to go beyond their respective heats. Veteran powerlifter Achelle Guion missed out on a podium finish, winding up in fourth place with a lift of 83 kilos in the women’s -45-kilogram division.

PBBM leads grand heroes’ ceremony for Hangzhou Asian Games medalists P RESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will honor the country’s medal winners in the 19th Asian Games in an elaborate ceremony at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Wednesday afternoon. Dubbed “Gabi ng Parangal at Pasasalamat para sa Bayaning Atletang Pilipino,” the grand heroes’ welcome will feature video presentations and production numbers to highlight the stories and great service of national athletes and their coaches. President Marcos will also award Presidential citation and other incentives. “This celebration is a testament to the national government’s unwavering support to each of our national athletes,” said Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Richard Bachmann said. “We thank the President for personally coming over here at the historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum to honor our medalist, their coaches and their families.”

The Philippines clinched four gold, two silver and 12 bronze medals in Hangzhou with Ernest John“EJ”Obiena setting a games record in pole vault. Meggie Ochoa and Annie Ramirez reigned supreme in Marcos jiu-jitsu and Gilas Pilipinas ended 62 years of championship drought in men’s 5x5 basketball for the country’s other gold medals. Also to be honored are silver medalists Eumir Felix Marcial of boxing and Arnel Mandal of wushu, along bronze medalists’ Patrick King Perez of taekwondo, Jones Inso, Gideon Padua and Clemente Tabugara Jr. of wushu, Alex Eala and Francis Alcantara of tennis, Patrick Coo of cycling, Elreen Ando of weightlifting, Kaila Napolis of jiu-jitsu, Sakura Alforte of karate and the men’s sepak takraw team.

Heading Gilas Pilipinas in the event are Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio, Philippine Basketball Association chairman Ricky Vargas, commissioner Willie Marcial and vice chairman Bobby Rosales and San Miguel Corp. sports director and Barangay Ginebra governor Alfrancis Chua, Gilas team manager. Also expected are SBP chairman emeritus Manny V. Pangilinan, chairman of Metro Pacific Investments Corp., and Ramon S. Ang, president and CEO of San Miguel Corp. Welcoming the president’s entourage and the athletes and their families are officials of the PSC and the Philippine Olympic Committee under president Abraham Tolentino. Concluding the event is the presentation of the Asian Games 2023 souvenir and the official Molten FIBA basketball to the President.

NBA opens new season with new look

AMIAN LILLARD went to Milwaukee, Bradley Beal went to Phoenix, Jrue Holiday ended up in Boston and Chris Paul ended up with Golden State. Victor Wembanyama arrived in San Antonio, Nick Nurse took over in Philadelphia and LeBron James is now the oldest player in the league. Asalways,theNationalBasketballAssociation(NBA)isopening a new season with new looks. The Denver Nuggets are hoping this season doesn’t end with another new champion. The NBA’s 78th season starts Tuesday, with a ring ceremony in

PBA MEDIA DAY Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner Willie Marcial talks with San Miguel

Beer players during the league’s Media Day ahead of its opening on November 5 at One Esplanade in Pasay City on Tuesday. RUDY ESPERAS

Denver—thetraditionalcelebrationofthereigningchampions— highlighting the opening-night celebration. The Nuggets beat Miami last June to become the league’s fifth different champion in the last five years, a run of parity the likes of which the league hasn’t seen in more than 40 years. “We’vegonefrombeingateamthat’shuntingtheteamsinfront of us to now we’re going to be the hunted,” Denver coach Michael Malone said.“And hopefully our guys understand the responsibility that comes with being a defending champion. There can be no off nights, because we’re getting everybody’s best 82 times this year.” The last five winners: Toronto, the Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee, Golden State and Denver. The last time there was a five-season stretch with no duplicate champion was 1977 through 1981, and it was a very different NBA back then. For context on what the league was like in those five years: Seattle had a team, Washington was the Bullets, the 3-point line didn’t exist when that run started, the league had 22 or 23 teams instead of its current 30, the Nets played in New Jersey, the Jazz werewrappinguptheirNewOrleansrun,theKingsplayedinKansas City, the Clippers played in San Diego and four players were the top earners at exactly $1 million a year each. During this regular season, the NBA has at least 56 players who’ll make $1 million a week. “There’s still the elite teams: Denver, Milwaukee, Boston,” Charlotte coach Steve Clifford said. “But there’s a lot of really, really good teams that if they evolve the right way, they can get there too.” The offseason included several major transactions. Lillard’s quest to get traded to Miami wound up with him getting traded to Milwaukee and instantly forming a championship-caliber duo with Giannis Antetokounmpo. BealgottradedtotheSuns,formingthenewestBig3alongside Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. The Lillard and Beal moves led to others—Holiday eventually joining Boston, Paul eventually joining Golden State. Everybodyischasingthering.Whichmeans,fornow,everybody is chasing the Nuggets. “I just know when you have a team that can be one of those teams that’s going to compete for a title,”Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said. “And we have one of those teams.” For the first time, there are two titles for teams to

NUGGETS head coach Mike Malone (right) speaks with guard Jamal Murray during the first half their pre-season game against the Los Angeles Clippers in Los Angeles. AP go after this season. The In-Season Tournament—something Commissioner Adam Silver wanted for years—is now a reality. It starts on November 3 with group play, and ends with a Final Four in Las Vegas on December 7 and 9. The winner gets the NBA Cup and around $18 million in prize money will be awarded, with $500,000 going to each player on the winning team. AP

Lacsina, Baron anchor Cargo Movers victory against Chameleons

2 LOGISTICS disposed of Nxled, 25-20, 25-14, 25-16, to join a crowded group at fourth place in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference eliminations at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City on Tuesday. With Ivy Lacsina on the firing end, the Cargo Movers crushed the Chameleons on attacks, 42-27, and with the former National University standout also at the defensive helm, F2 Logistics thwarted several Nxled assaults, leading to a glaring 12-1 difference in blocks. “I’ve been working extra hard in defense. I just wanted to give what the team needs, so I always play all-out,” said Lacsina, after claiming the game’s top honors following a 19-point effort she spiked with four kill blocks. Majoy Baron also came away with four blocks on her way to a 10-point output as she and Lacsina virtually formed a wall that the Nxled hitters found too tough to pierce, particularly in the third set, enabling the Cargo Movers to rally from three-point deficits and complete the straight-set romp in one-hour and 22 minutes. F2 Logistics also pounced on Nxled’s shaky service reception by scoring seven aces while giving up two of their own. But while they were able to cut their unforced errors by six after yielding 26 in their five-set shock loss to the Akari Chargers last week, the Cargo Movers could only draw 14 points from the Chameleons’ miscues. “We still have a lot of things to work on and we cannot be complacent,” said F2 Logistics coach Regine Diego, one of the few coaches in the league blessed with a star-studded crew, including a band of rising stars. “This win is a big boost but we have to work more.” Jolina dela Cruz fired 11 points and posted 11 excellent receptions, Aby Maraño added seven markers, mostly on her signature running attacks, while Ara Galang also finished with seven points for the Cargo Movers, who will next play the Galeries Tower Highrisers in another PVL on Tour match in Candon, Ilocos Sur this Saturday. F2 Logistics thus tied Nxled, one of the two newcomers in the season-ending conference of the league organized by Sports Vision which debuted with a straight-set win over Gerflor last week, at fourth with Choco Mucho, PLDT, Cignal and Akari. Petro Gazz, Chery Tiggo and defending champion Creamline paced the record 12-team cast with two wins apiece. Lycha Ebon led Nxled with 11 points while Jho Maraguinot scored seven points and Krich Macaslang and Camille Victoria finished with five markers apiece. But the Chameleons’ offense suffered a snag in the last two sets after keeping it close in the opening frame before losing steam in the face of the Cargo Movers’ strong windup. After a stroll in the second, F2 Logistics trailed by three three times in the early going of the third, the last at 7-10 on a Victoria ace. But Victoria gave up the point in the ensuing play with a service miscue and the Cargo Movers took six of the next seven points, highlighted by Baron and Lacsina’s blocks. After Ebon scored on a through-theblock hit that cut F2’s lead to 12-17, Lacsina and Baron combined for two more blocks with the former adding to two hits and the latter also scoring with a power swipe, leading to a 22-15 Cargo Movers’ lead. Kim Fajardo then scored back-toback aces before stalling their romp with a service error. But Judith Abil also fouled up on the service line to IVY LACSINA goes all yield the match. out for F2 Logistics.

Show of force by Army boxers in ROTC Games

INCE LOMBOY won via referee stopped contest to lead seven other Army cadets to the semifinals of the boxing competitions on Tuesday in the Reserved Officers Training Corps. National Championships at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila. Lomboy beat Air Force’s James Kert Valdez in the second round to move a win shy of the flyweight (48-5 1kgs) gold medal. “It’s my dream to be a national boxer,” said the 24-year-old Lomboy, an Education junior at the Tarlac State University. His teammate, Joeler Efondo, won on points, 5-0, over Navy’s Roland Medez to also advance to the division semifinals, along with Justin Laurezo and Jade Cabaya, whose opponents from Navy and Air Force didn’t show up. Another Army standout, Florence Sumpay, beat Navy’s Archie John Hernandez in the second round for a semifinals seat in the featherweight (57 kgs) division. Sumpay’s teammate Renz Puyong also advanced following a 5-0 victory over Air Force’s Ric Baron, while Rodrigo Lumogda won by default over fellow Army Bryl Bayogos. Joerge Lamigo Jr. kept Air Force afloat with an RSC win against Navy’s Edcel Vilar. In volleyball, University of Negros Occidental Recoletos whipped Tarlac State University, 25-20, 25-8, 25-20, at the Technological University of the Philippines gym. Adamson University also disposed of Jose Rizal Memorial State University, 25-16, 25-13, 25-23, while Rizal Technological University bounced back from a third-set hiccup to defeat Guimaras State University, 25-14, 25-20, 16-25, 25-17.

VINCE LOMBOY waits in the neutral corner as James Kert Valdez gets a mandatory count.