Edge Davao Vol. 15 Issue 304 | Thursday, April 13, 2023

Muslim women attend a gathering at Tionko Field along Quimpo Boulevard in Davao City in this undated photo. The National Commission for Muslim Filipinos-Davao Region (NCMF-Davao Region) said that an education and information campaign is needed on the wearing of hijab among Muslim women employees and students in their workplaces and schools. Lean Daval Jr.

NUTRIBUN COMEBACK

OVP distributes

‘Nutribun’ in Davao school pilot run

By MAYA M. PADILLO

That good old Nutribun, popular in the 1970s, is making a comeback.

The Office of the Vice President, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), pilot-tested the program “Pansarap”, which is a supplemental nutrition intervention by distributing nutritional buns for undernourished learners, in a public school in Davao City.

In a press statement, the OVP announced that the first recipients of the nutritional buns that were created by the

dernourished kindergartens to grade six students at Lower Tamugan Elementary School in Barangay Tamugan in Davao City. School principal Brembhot Eyas expressed gratitude to the OVP as the number of undernourished children in their school is alarming.

Undersecretary Zuleika T. Lopez of the OVP said the program is an initiative of Vice President Sara Duterte, who is also the Education Secretary.

Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), were the 733 un- F

PBBM, Sara enjoy high ratings in Pulse Asia’s March survey

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte enjoyed majority approval and trust ratings in March, results of a Pulse Asia survey showed Wednesday.

The survey results showed that Marcos had an approval rating of 78 percent, while Duterte had 83 percent.

“Majority approval scores are enjoyed by the President and the Vice-President in all geographic areas and socio-economic groupings,” Pulse Asia said. Their ratings were “virtually unchanged” between November 2022 and March 2023, the pollster noted.

Illegal mining, loose guns linger in Tampakan mining tenement

Illegal small-scale mining operations and loose firearms have proliferated anew within the mining tenement of the controversial $5.9-billion Tampakan project, authorities have found out after a series of raids last month.

Engr. Efren Carido, director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Region 12 (MGB-12), told MindaNews over the phone Tuesday that illegal activities in Southeast Asia’s largest undeveloped copper-gold minefield “include sluice and tunnel mining for gold deposits.”

Some of the illegal mining sites in Sitio Acacia in Barangay Danlag and Sitio Aspak in Barangay Tablu in Tampakan, South Cotabato have ball mill machines, an indication that these illegal miners are looking for the long haul until they were discovered, Carido added.

“It was good we busted them,” he said.

shovel, plastic pail, and cut nets and screens, among others.

He pointed out that about three hectares of the mountain have been destroyed by sluice mining, also known as banlas mining.

Banlas mining, which is considered a highly-destructive mining method, involves the pouring of large amounts of water using high-pressure water jets on a mountain’s surface to extract the rocks containing the gold ore, and then pan them with mercury.

Banlas operations were first uncovered in the gold-rush town of T’boli, South Cotabato in the early 2000s, particularly in Barangay Kematu.

Carido noted they already informed SMI about the resurgence of illegal mining operations within its tenement.

The mining firm is mainly responsible to protect its tenement from illegal mining activities, he stressed.

Both Marcos and Duterte are also “trusted by most of the country’s adult population,” Pulse Asia said.

Marcos enjoyed a trust rating of 80 percent, while Duterte scored 85 percent.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and House Speaker

Carido said a multi-partite team conducted three raids in the Tampakan project, which is being developed by Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI), since last month. The raids, he said, led to the confiscation of various equipment commonly used in illegal mining operations—flexible plastic pipe, collapsible hose, sledgehammer,

The official said ores containing copper were strewn over the illegal mining sites because the illegal miners were more after the gold ores.

Carido said the illegal mining sites are located far from populated communities, taking about two to three hours of trekking to FPBBM, P10 FILLEGAL, P10

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte graces 10th Santa Maria Marilag Festival at Laguna Town Plaza on Wednesday. FB page of Inday Sara Duterte

Need to dispose of unused electrical wires pushed in SP

Slight increase in COVID-19 cases seen in Davao Region

The Department of Health (DOH)-Davao reported on Wednesday that there is a “slight increase” in the number of confirmed coronavirus disease (COVD-19) cases in the region with a positivity rate of 12.2 percent.

Dr. Rachel Joy Pasion, head of the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of DOHDavao, said during a press briefing that the agency is closely monitoring the COVID-19 cases, most of them manifesting mild symptoms only.

The positivity rate, she noted, is way above the acceptable positivity rate set by the World Health Organization of 5 percent.

She said an increase was noted for the month of March with a total of 803 cases from 454 cases reported in February. From April 1 to 10, a total of 296 cases were recorded.

However, a 1.32-percent decline was seen in the weekly data of DOH-Davao between March 27-April 2 and April 3-9, Pasion said.

As of April 10, there were

By MAYA M. PADILLO

a total of 358 active cases. Out of this total, 208 were reported in Davao City, 53 in Davao de Oro, 37 in Davao Oriental, 27 in Davao del Sur, 21 in Davao del Norte, and 12 in Davao Occidental.

The increase could have been caused by the recent activities during Araw ng Dabaw in March, Pasion noted.

An advisory dated April 11 released by Regional Director Annabelle Yumang alerted that there “is a compelling need for hospitals to prepare for the possibility of surge, especially with the recent long holiday in celebration of the Holy Week, in which family and public gatherings were expected.”

It also reminded hospitals of Administrative Order No. 20210042 issued August 31, 2021 or the Guidelines for COVID-19 Response, mandating “all government and private hospitals to allocate at least 30 percent and 20 percent of their current authorized bed capacity, respectively, to accommodate and service COVID-19 patients.”

Aftera tragic electrocution incident that clained two lives, the Davao City Council is pushing for a new city ordinance to remove unused electrical wires in Davao City.

On April 7, 2023, four people were electrocuted due to a fallen power line in Purok 15, Brgy. Panacan, Davao City. Two of them died on the spot while the other two sustained injuries and were brought immediately by Central 911 to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) for treatment.

“Nanginahanglan pud ta ug

bag-ong balaod aning mga dead wires kasagaran ani mga telcos. Nasilip na dapat magkaroon ug ordinance dili lang sa pagkabit kundili pati sa pagbaklas sa mga wala nay gamit na mga wires/ lines kay they pose danger sa mga tao. I-revisit nato kining atong mga city ordinance sa wires and cables,” said Angel Sumagaysay, chief of the Public Safety and Se-

curity Office (PSSO) over Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on Wednesday.

Sumagaysay said this was recommended by Vice Mayor J. Melchor Quitain Jr. during their department heads meeting on Tuesday.

“Freak incident na maong dapat matan-aw ug balik ug ma-asses ang cables in coordination sa concern establishments. May mga action taken na ang city government of Davao,” he said.

He also said that the city ad-

Info campaign on wearing of hijab in establishments, schools needed: exec

An official of the National Commission for Muslim Filipinos-Davao Region (NCMF-Davao Region) emphasized that an education and information campaign is needed to generate awareness and understanding of the wearing of hijab among Muslim women employees and students in their workplaces and schools.

Samer Musa Allong, commissioner of NCMF-Davao Region,

said that Muslim women employees and students have to follow the said policy concerning their culture and tradition.

The NCMF is mandated to preserve and develop the culture, tradition, institutions, and well-being of Muslim Filipinos, in conformity with the country’s laws and consonance with national unity and development.

“Naa ta’y mga polisiya nato diri sa guidelines. Ang atong

mga kababaihan nga mu-trabaho sa mga establishments, tanggalon ang hijab, pasuoton ug fit na sinina, and atong mga estudyante nga naa na sa college naa’y mga security personnel na usahay ipatanggal ang ilahang veil, ang atong medical practitioners ug medical students naay mga laboratories nga kailangan tanggalon ilahang veil. Nahatagan nato na ug attention ug protek-

Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) chief Angel Sumagaysay says he thinks Davao City need a new city ordinance to remove unused electrical wires in the city to prevent the recent electrocution incident to happen again. Lean Daval Jr.

DICT discussing possible SIM registration extension

An official of the agency tasked to implement the SIM Registration Act on Wednesday said they are already discussing a possible extension of its deadline as registration figures remain low.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology said only 38.8 percent of the 168.9 million SIMs in the country have so far been registered, based on the latest figures from the National Telecommunications Commission.

Telco subscribers have only until April 26 to register their

SIMs or risk deactivation.

“Wala pang policy kung mag-eextend. Pinag-uusapan sa ngayon, and we are mindful of the April 26 deadline vis-à-vis the very low adoption, or registration statistics,” said DICT Assistant Secretary Jeffrey Ian Dy.

Telcos and government agencies are already studying how to

make the process of SIM registration easier, Dy said.

“Sa postpaid kasi madali. You just send a keyword to a number. Reply to their text lang. Maybe they have to try to also make it simpler, also for people na nasa prepaid na mag-register,” Dy noted.

Telcos have said that many subscribers are unable to register their SIMs as they lack valid government IDs.

“The e-government department ng DICT… is also developing

PH vehicle sales up 24.2% in March

Vehicle sales continued to post double-digit growth in March with the automotive industry eyeing to surpass pre-pandemic sales levels this year, data released by the manufacturers on Wednesday showed.

A joint report by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) showed that total new motor vehicle sales for the month hit 36,880 units.

This is 24.2% higher than the 29,685 units sold in March 2022, and 19.3% higher than the 30,305 units sold in February 2023.

“It is worth noting that the March 2023 sales performance is the second-highest monthly performance in a post-pandemic time, after the more than 37,000-unit sales level recorded in December last year,” CAMPI President Atty. Rommel Gutierrez said in an emailed statement.

The highest number of units sold was seen in commercial vehicles with 26,822 units; followed by light commercial vehicles (LCVs) with 20,644; passenger cars with 10,058; Asian utility vehicles (AUVs) with 5,205; light trucks with 453; and trucks and buses with 520 units.

“Indeed good news as the auto industry continues to hinge

PH-Turkey air service deal to boost tourism -- DOT

The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Tuesday welcomed a newly signed air services agreement that would double passenger flights between the Philippines and Turkey.

statement.

Frasco said the Turkish Airline (TK), Turkey’s flag carrier, has been Manila’s “longtime partner” in servicing European and Mediterranean source markets into the country.

on the thriving consumer demand for new motor vehicles, which hopefully will further improve in the coming months,” Gutierrez said.

“In the same way, favorable economic conditions are also an important factor for sustained growth,” he added.

The latest figures bring the first-quarter units sold to 97,824, translating to a 30.1% growth from the comparable period in 2022.

The manufacturers earlier this year said they are optimistic about recording 10% to 15% growth this year from the 352,596 units sold in the past year.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the deal would further position the Philippines as an ideal destination for international travelers, boosting the number of arrivals, especially during this summer season.

Under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Frasco said the DOT has identified the improvement of connectivity as one of its core objectives to strengthen the tourism industry.

“Thus, we recognize and commend the efforts of our counterparts from the transportation sector led by the Department of Transportation for helping us improve our air services partnerships that would give our would-be visitors the improved tourist experience that they deserve,” she said in a

Transportation Undersecretary Roberto Lim and Turkish Civil Aviation Acting Director General Dr. Kemal Yüksek earlier signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that improves the bilateral air services regime between the Philippines and Turkiye after air consultations between the Philippine and Turkish Air Panels in March 2023.

The air talks resulted in a doubling of passenger air service entitlements for the Philippines and Turkiye on the Manila-Istanbul route from the previous seven flights per week on each side to 14 flights per week.

Half or seven of the total Turkish entitlements to Manila will be on a co-terminal basis with Cebu, which Frasco sees

A man washes a motorcycle loaded on a pick up vehicle at a car wash along Loyola Street in Bo. Obrero, Davao City on Wednesday. Lean Daval Jr.

FDICT, P10

No extension for April 17 ITR filing deadline: BIR

3,000 ‘high level’ cyberattacks in PH from 2020 to 2022: DICT

At least 3,000 “high level” cyberattacks were recorded in the Philippines from 2020 to 2022, the Department of Information and Communications Technology said on Wednesday.

Almost half of the total attacked were systems and networks of government agencies and emergency response teams, DICT Asec. Jeffrey Ian Dy said during the DICT’s “Hack for Gov” competition for college students.

For the same period, DICT has monitored some 54,000 cyber threats, data showed.

Since January this year, 5 government agencies have been attacked, the DICT said.

“From the periods of 2020 to 2022, we recorded more than 3,000 incidents. These are high levels of attacks... The national computer emergency response team is on the top of the situation, and we’re trying to do our best to mitigate and to remediate these attacks,” Dy said.

Dy said the agency is push-

TheBureau of Internal Revenue said on Wednesday there would be no extension for the annual income tax return (AITR) filing and payment deadline on April 17.

ing for the passage of a measure for the mandatory reporting of hacking incidents.

“Ang kinakatakot namin dito is that these are all passive data. Passive, meaning we’re waiting for reports. Unfortunately, wala pa tayong batas that mandates the mandatory reporting or disclosure of information whenever there is hacking. We’re also trying to lobby for this particular law, Cybersecurity Act to be passed in Congress,” he said.

The country also needs more cybersecurity professionals, Dy said, adding that there are only 300 certified information security systems professionals here.

Some professionals also prefer private companies and opportunities overseas due to higher compensation, he said.

“There is asymmetry when it comes to salary, that’s one. Mas mataas ang pasweldo sa private sector. Pangalawa, I think there’s a misalignment of incentives. Hindi naman kinakailangan salary. We’re trying to work

Any extension will result in inadequate funding of government programs, the BIR said in a statement.

“We are all partners in nation-building. Timely payment of taxes results into immediate

funding of priority government programs. There will be no extension. The deadline for filing and payment of our 2022 AITRs is on the 17th day of April 2023, Monday,” Commissioner Romeo Lumagui, Jr. said.

Taxpayers are encouraged to use the “file and pay anywhere” process introduced earlier by the BIR as well as the tax assistance centers nationwide.

The BIR said there is no reason for non-compliance since the processes are now more convenient.

Payments beyond the deadline will entail interests, surcharges and penalties, the agency said.

IMF issues growth warning as it lowers 2023 forecast

The International Monetary Fund slightly lowered its outlook for the global economy, while predicting that most countries will avoid a recession this year despite economic worries and geopolitical strains.

Concerns over high inflation, rising geopolitical tensions and financial stability hang over the updated forecasts, with the impact of war in Ukraine continuing to dampen growth and drive up consumer prices in

many countries.

Persistent economic concerns could overshadow plans by the IMF and World Bank to promote an ambitious reform and fundraising agenda at this year’s spring meetings.

In its World Economic Outlook (WEO) report, the IMF predicts the global economy will grow by 2.8 percent this year and three percent in 2024, a decline of 0.1 percentage point from its January forecasts.

The IMF’s expectations for

the United States were slightly rosier: the world’s largest economy is expected to grow by 1.6 percent in 2023, marginally higher than previously predicted.

“The global economy remains on track for a gradual recovery from the pandemic and Russia’s war in Ukraine,” IMF chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas told a press conference Tuesday.

He added that “the massive

FIMF,

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco says the newly signed air services agreement between the Philippines and Turkey’s flag carrier, Turkish Airline (TK), is welcomed by the DOT as it would further position the country as an ideal destination for international travelers. Lean Daval Jr.

In showing his support for the local film industry by gracing the 1st Summer MMFF Gabi ng Parangal:

“The MMFF is an opportunity for us to showcase our country’s diverse and rich culture through the medium of film. It is also a chance for us to support our local filmmakers and actors

Senator CHRISTOPHER “BONG” GO

who work hard to create entertaining and meaningful movies for us to enjoy.”

A seafarer refers to any person who “is employed or engaged or works in any capacity on board a ship to which this Act applies”.

The definition is lifted from House Bill 7325 or the proposed Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers which the House of Representatives approved on third and final reading last March 6, 2023.

The same phrases appeared in the Coverage section : “This Act shall cover Filipino seafarers who are employed or engaged or work in any capacity on board foreign-registered ships and Philippine-registered ships operating internationally. This Act shall not cover seafarers on board the following categories of ships: (a) Warships and naval auxiliaries; (b) Government ships not engaged in commercial operations; (c) Ships of traditional build, as may be defined under existing rules and regulations; and (d) Fishing vessels.

The bill further noted that “Seafarers who are employed or engaged or work in any capacity on board merchant ships operating domestically shall be covered by the Labor

WHO IS A SEAFARER UNDER THE MAGNA CARTA?

Code of the Philippines, and by other applicable laws, executive issuances, rules and regulations.”

During the deliberation of Magna Carta version at the Senate, we proposed that the phrase “to be engaged” should be added in the coverage and definition sections.

The law should also cover those “to be employed/ engaged ” as not all seafarers are actively employed all the time. There are those who are still applying for work, undergoing trainings, recently repatriated due to contract termination or other causes, or are simply on vacation.

Legislative bodies are allowed to classify the subjects of legislation. If the classification is reasonable, the law may operate only on some and not all of the people without violating the equal protection clause. The classification must, as an indispensable requisite, not be arbitrary.

To be valid, it must conform to the following requirements:

(1) It must be based on substantial distinctions; (2) It must be germane to the purposes of the law; (3) It must not be limited to existing conditions only

and (4) It must apply equally to all members of the class. (People vs. Cayat, G.R. No. L-45987, May 5, 1939).

Applying the principle behind the Cayat case, the pending law must not be limited to existing conditions only and it must apply equally to all members of the class. The class refers to all seafarers, whether employed or not.

In fact, several provisions intend to include even those not “engaged, employed, or working” . The Magna Carta less effective due to the non-inclusion of those “to be engaged.”.

These include sections on

(a) Right to Self-Organization, to Engage in Collective Bargaining, and to Participate in Democratic Exercises; (b) Right to Educational Advancement and Training at Reasonable and Affordable Costs.

(c) Right to Information; (d) Right to Consultation ( e) Right against Discrimination (f) Right to Free Legal Representation and (g) Discrimination Against Women Seafarers.

“To be engaged” is also for the protection of those possible victims of illegal recruitment and other prohibited

ANTONIO V. FIGUEROA FAST BACKWARD

In later years, names like BHP Billiton, the world’s leading natural resources firm, part-nered with local firm Asiaticus Management Corp. Xstrata-Sagittarius Mining, Inc., at US$5.9 billion the country’s largest single investment, however, was hounded by security and political issues. US-based Oro East Mining Co. made its presence in Davao Oriental, while local outfit Nationwide Development Corp. (NADECOR) signed a joint venture with Toron-to-listed firm St. Augustine Gold and Copper Ltd. for the Kingking copper-gold project in Pantukan, Davao de Oro.

In 2008, JB Management Mining Corp. (JBMMC), a Davao firm that started in 1986 at Mount Diwata, Monkayo, Davao de Oro, became the first in southern Mindanao to officially seal a deal with the gov-

ernment through state-owned Philippine Mining Resources Corp. (PMRC), erstwhile Natural Resources Mining Development Corp. (NRMDC).

Despite the expanding list of gold-rush sites in Davao de Oro and Davao Oriental, the number of small-scale miners had exponentially climbed. By July 2012, the Mines and Geosci-ences Bureau (MGB) reported that only four registered small-scale mines, among the hun-dreds in gold-rush sites around Davao de Oro, were able to obtain permits. Around this time, as pro-environment advocacy became intense, the nagging issues affecting mining remained.

Though there were past encyclicals on the protection of Mother Earth, the 2016 papal bull of Pope Francis titled ‘Laudato Si’ has set seven goals to protect Nature from human depreda-tion: (i) the cry of

acts under the Amended Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act (AMWA) or R.A. No. 10022 and the POEA rules in relation to the recruitment and employment of Filipino seafarers wherein the company or persons can be held criminally or administratively liable.

A holder of an active Seafarer Identification and Record Book (SIRB) may not be considered a seafarer under the proposed magna carta.

However, there are oppositions to its inclusion as they argue that the definition and coverage should follow what is stated in the Maritime Labor Convention of 2006 (MLC2006)

The MLC2006 establishes minimum working and living standards for all seafarers working on ships flying the flags of ratifying countries. The Philippines deposited its instrument of ratification on August 20, 2012.

The proposed Magna Carta seeks to implement the standards set by MLC2006 to ensure protection of the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers by recognizing their rights, instituting mechanisms

for the enforcement and protection thereof, providing for compulsory benefits.

Ironically, employers and manning agencies are pursuing the inclusion of an escrow provision which is absent in MLC2006.

The provision in essence aimed to amend the Labor Code that will have significant impact on the “immediately final and executory” nature of decisions issued by National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) and the National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB).

The proceeds shall remain in escrow until such time the finality of the decision issued by the appropriate appellate court is obtained.

The amount in escrow shall not include claims for salaries, statutory monetary benefits, or those originally determined by the employer or manning agency to be legally due to the seafarer.

(Atty. Dennis R. Gorecho heads the seafarers’ division of the Sapalo Velez Bundang Bulilan law offices. For comments, e-mail info@sapalovelez. com, or call 09175025808 or 09088665786.)

A GOLD MINE CALLED DAVAO (3)

Earth, (ii) the cry of the Poor, (iii) ecological economics, (iv) simple lifestyles, (v) ecological education, (vi) ecological spirituality, and (vii) community involvement and participation.

A reviewer once wrote about the impact of the encyclical: “It invites people to protect God’s creation for future generations, to embrace a lifestyle change for their own good, and to take care of people who are poor and more vulnerable.”

That year, the state-owned PMDC was moved from the supervision of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and placed directly under the Office of the President, adopting a vision that “adheres to the ideals and standards of responsible mineral development and adopts the best practices in environmental protection and en-

hancement.”

Sec. Leo Tereso A. Magno, presidential assistant for eastern Mindanao, during the 29th Mindanao Association of Mining Engineers (MAEM) Symposium in March 2023, held at the Waterfront Insular Hotel, Davao City, reechoed the theme in his message, saying”

“Mining has always been the industry that is most controversial in all industries in the country… This is because some sectors view mining as a destructive threat to the environ-ment… But your team’s forging new heights in the integral mining industry, which manifests unity in rendering service to our people as we convene together to create immense immersive avenues of change in pursuit of the integral mining industry led by able leaders… Having these rich deposits of gold, copper,

gold, and nickel, it is a blessing from God. But like any other blessings, we must make use of them and take care of them.”

Engr. Constancio A. Paje, Sr., MAEM’s president, explains in simple terms the importance of mining in everyone’s lives, stating:

“Mining only responds to society’s demand. When you wake up in the morning, you face the mirror. That mirror comes from mining. When you brush your teeth, the glass you hold comes from mining. Even the toothpaste you use when you brush your teeth comes from mining. Our computers, our laptops, and the utensils we use daily come from mining. Imag-ine if there is no mining, we have almost nothing to use and we will go back to Stone Age. Whether you are anti-mining, we have to continue using the products of mining.”

ATTY. DENNIS R. GORECHO PINOY MARINO RIGHTS

Aeon Luxe hosts visiting Japanese business group

BY NEIL BRAVO

Davao City’s premier homegrown real estate developer Aeon Luxe Properties Incorporated (ALPI) rolled out its red carpet for a visiting Japanese business entourage recently at the iconic Aeon Towers in J.P. Laurel, Bajada, Davao City.

The delegates are in the city to explore possible business ventures, represented renowned Japanese companies including MOL Ship Management based in Singapore and Tokyo and the Daibiru Corporation based in Hanoi, Vietnam.

“We are honored to welcome our visitors from prominent Japanese companies engaged in various industries especially shipping which Davao City has tremendous potential as an expansion site for these companies,” said Cruz.

The visiting businessmen are in the city to have a “close look” and for exploratory business opportunities. Davao City has been visited by several groups of foreign investors since the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions.

“It’s an opportunity for Davao City and we are happy to be the bridge to create business opportunities for the city,” Cruz added.

Spearheading the Japanese delegation were Yo Ishizaki, Chief Executive Representative, MOL in Singapore; Yasunori Takamatsu, General Manager, Associated Business Division, MOL in Tokyo; Teiichiro Shinoda, Chief Country Representative, MOL in Manila, Philippines; and Yudai Suzuki, Representative, Daibiru in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Welcoming the Japanese entrepreneurs is the ALPI team led by no less than President and CEO Ian Y. Cruz, Almira Mariano, Chief Operating Officer, Jester Hospital, VP-Sales and Marketing; and Garret Tepaurel, Project Development Manager.

The group were treated to a guided tour of Aeon Towers and the ongoing construction of Aeon Bleu in nearby Dizon Farms in Bacaca.

First stop of the tour was at the Aeon Towers. Guests were ushered into the Aeon Towers Showroom,

Club Aeon, and the Sky Deck which provides the best 360-view of the city’s panorama from the majestic Mt. Apo on one side to the pristine waters of Samal Island on the other.

The entourage then went for a site visit of Aeon Bleu, an upscale six-tower development project currently under construction at Bacaca Road, Poblacion, Davao City. The guests were given a preview of the upcoming towers and were amazed at the construction’s attention to detail and quality.

The Japanese investors also noted the city’s overall economic potential during interactions with ALPI’S Team.

It was the second major visit of a Japanese delegation to ALPI.

In March 2021, Japan Consulate General in Davao Yoshiaki Miwa and an enturage of Japanese executives also visited the Aeon Towers.

The Japanese delegation was composed of Yo Ishizaki, Chief Executive Representative, MOL in Singapore; Yasunori Takamatsu, General Manager, Associated Business Division, MOL in Tokyo; Teiichiro Shinoda, Chief Country Representative, MOL in Manila, Philippines; and Yudai Suzuki, Representative, Daibiru in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Welcoming the Japanese entrepreneurs is the ALPI team led by no less than President and CEO Ian Y. Cruz, Almira Mariano, Chief Operating Officer, Jester Hospital, VP-Sales and Marketing; and Garret Tepaurel, Project Development Manager.

Harley Davidson celebrates 120th year with launch of 2023 collection in PH

Established since 1903, Harley-Davidson will be celebrating their 120th year with a slew of launches and activities, starting with new models from their new 2023 line-up.

From 22 April, customers can check-out the 2023 Harley Davidson® motorcycle fleet across all dealerships in The Philippines, including the CVO Road Glide Limited in a serialized Anniversary model, and five additional limited-edition motorcycles in exclusive 120th Anniversary commemorative paint, finishes and details as well as carryover models in new colorways.

The 2023 offering from the world’s most desirable motorcycle brand includes a refreshed Harley-Davidson Breakout® performance cruiser model, the new Nightster® Special middleweight sport motorcycle, and a 2023 limited-edition restyled and blacked-out Freewheeler® Trike model.

The line-up also includes carryover models in new colorways, such as the Sportster® S, Street Glide®

Special, Street Glide® ST, Fat Boy® 114, Road King® Special, Road Glide® Special, Road Glide® ST, Ultra Limited and the Pan America™ 1250 Special.

Fans and newcomers to this iconic brand can have a first look at the limited-edition motorcycles, 2023 editions and carryover models in new colorways, with prices for the new models starting from PHP 1,030,000 and carry over model prices starting from PHP 990,000 respectively.

The complete line of 2023 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Genuine Harley-Davidson® Accessories and Harley-Davidson® MotorClothes® gear and apparel are now available at authorized Harley-Davidson® dealerships and can be viewed at H-D. com. New Models for the 2023 Fleet

Gearing up riders in pursuit of timeless adventure, a range of models will see new features and additions for Harley-Davidson riders and bike enthusiasts.

The Breakout® model is upgraded in 2023, flexing more muscle and flashing bright new styling over its long-and-lean chopper profile. The muscle is provided by the Milwaukee Eight® 117 V-Twin engine, the pinnacle of torque and displacement in a factory-installed, regular-production Harley-Davidson® powertrain that gives the Breakout rider instant bragging rights on the street. Enhancing the rider’s experience, the Nightster® Special’s performance will be delivered by the Revolution® Max 975T liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, tuned to make tremendous torque at low RPM. To minimize over-

all motorcycle weight the engine is integrated into the vehicle as the central member of the chassis.

120th Anniversary Paint Schemes and New Colorways for Carryover Models

Celebrating 120 years of craftsmanship, and to showcase the mastery of aesthetics and a homage to their classics, a Special 120th Anniversary paint will be available in different schemes and offered on six limited-production Harley-Davidson® models, where the color and design combinations are inspired by early Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

Featuring one of the most intricate paint schemes ever offered by Harley-Davidson. The bikes are adorned with panels of their signature Heirloom Red applied over a base coat of Anniversary Black, each outlined with a bright red pinstripe and a hand-applied gold paint scallop with subtle details within the panels to portray the head and wings of a soaring eagle. The Anniversary Collection includes the Street Glide® Special, the Ultra Limited, the Road Glide® Special, Fat Boy, Heritage Classic, and the very limited-edition, super premium CVO™ Road Glide® Limited model.

Airbnb sees strong travel rebound in the Philippines, nights booked doubled in 2022 from 2020

Manila, Philippines — Latest data from Airbnb has revealed that nights booked in the Philippines on Airbnb more than doubled last year from 2020. Domestic travel led the way as the Philippines ranked as the

#1 travel destination among locals in 2022*.

Traveling with loved ones is on the rise in the Philippines, as travel continues to be an avenue for many to connect with families and barka-

das especially during longer holidays and local festivals. While travel in pairs made for the most common booking type for Filipinos on Airbnb, group travel saw a significant surge with nights booked jumping by almost

180% year-on-year in 2022*. The average length of stay for guests on Airbnb was approximately three nights*.

Filipinos are also expanding their travel horizons and eager to explore destinations both near and far. The United States and Canada ranked first and second respectively on Filipinos’ most booked overseas destinations on Airbnb — while popular Asia Pacific destinations Japan, Korea, and Thailand rounded out the top five*. Last year, Filipinos’ most booked overseas cities were Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, London, New York, and Toronto*.

Concurrently, international travelers are planning their overseas getaways with renewed enthusiasm, with many eyeing tropical island destinations such as the Philippines. Notably, the United States also ranked as the #1 country of origin for international Airbnb guests in the Philippines last year, followed by Australia, Canada, United Kingdom and Korea.*

Summer travel is on the rise

Filipinos are undeniably raring to travel this summer, especially as the Philippine government announced a five-day long weekend this Holy Week. Notably, Airbnb has seen almost 400 percent growth in searches for stays in the Philippines**.

The top five most searched cities this summer by Filipino travelers are: Santa Maria in Bulacan, Malay in Aklan, Baguio City in Benguet, Cebu City in Cebu, and Pasay City in Manila***. Meanwhile, Manila emerged as the most sought-after domestic destination for international travelers, followed by popular travel hotspots Cebu City, Malay, and El Nido****.

Group-friendly villas on Airbnb

include Vendali Villa and Asteria Villa in Santa Maria

Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong and Taiwan, said, “With the Philippines aiming to become a tourism powerhouse in Asia in the next few years, we are delighted to see the current travel rebound across the country. Traveling with loved ones remains a significant priority for Filipinos, and Airbnb is well-placed to welcome travelers with our variety of unique stays at all price points. The enthusiasm among Filipinos and international travelers alike to visit the country’s amazing beaches, experience the richness of Philippine culture, and enjoy world-renowned Filipino hospitality, is extremely encouraging. It means more tourism dollars flowing into more communities, which in turn supports more local businesses and jobs. We are committed to working closely with the government and industry stakeholders to support and further drive travel as it returns.”

*Based on internal Airbnb data for 2022

**Based on searches made in 2022 for check-ins between 1 Mar30 Apr 2023 compared to the same period in 2022

***Based on growth in searches for Philippine cities made in Q42022 for check-ins between 1 Mar - 30 April 2023 by domestic travelers in the Philippines

****Based on growth in searches for Philippine cities made in Q42022 for check-ins between 1 Mar - 30 April 2023 by international travelers in the Philippines

NUTRIBUN... FROM 2 PBBM... FROM 2 ILLEGAL... FROM 2 MALACAÑANG... FROM 11

The nutritious bread, which is Halal certified, comes in 10 flavors and will be distributed to students from Mondays to Fridays for 120 days.

NUTRIBUN HISTORY

The Nutribun of the 1970s was a bread borne out of good intentions. Nutribun was designed as a convenient “readyto-eat complete meal” for public elementary school feeding programs to combat child malnutrition in the Philippines. Schools in economically depressed areas where children weighed below the normal weight for their age were the priority consumers of the Nutribun.

The baking of the Nutribun was done in schools with facilities for baking or by commercial bakeries, as reported by Maura M. Bean of the U.S. Department of Agriculture research center, which developed the soy-fortified flours for donations under the Food for Peace program. The Catholic Relief Services, the School Health Division, the Bureau of Public Schools, and the Department of Education and Culture took care of the distribution and coordination on the ground.

NATIONWIDE PROGRAM

The OVP statement said it is planning to bring the program to other parts of the country with high cases of malnutrition among children and will be soon implemented in Upi, Maguindanao, targeting 1,893 undernourished schoolchildren.

The Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) conducted the first-ever online soft launching of “Ang Pagbabalik ng Nutribun” on July 29, 2020, via Zoom.

DICT... FROM 4

a system which we can offer to telecommunications providers na mayroon na siyang parang KYC or know your customer, so it becomes easier for you to know your SIM card… at least kung naka-smart phone ka mas madali,” dagdag niya.

The DICT meanwhile continued to appeal to the public to register their SIMs, saying this will help curb text scams.

“SIM card registration, though, not necessarily preventive, is a deterrent sa cybercrime, specifically sa phishing and scam, because it will help us attribute scammers and phishers,” he said.

Both Globe and Smart have already appealed to the government to extend the deadline for SIM registration.

Dy however said he is personally not in favor of a 120-day extension.

“Ako, personally, hindi ‘to DICT, I wouldn’t want 120 days (extension), kasi magiging complacent na naman ‘yung mga tao,” he said.

IMF... FROM 5

and synchronized tightening of monetary policy by most central banks” had begun to bring inflation lower.

But serious risks relating to financial stability have emerged, he said, referring to banking turmoil unleashed last month after the dramatic collapse of Californian lender Silicon Valley Bank.

Martin Romualdez, meanwhile, tied in their approval ratings after they both got 51 percent. Their trust ratings slightly differed, however, with Zubiri gaining 48 percent and Romualdez obtaining 44 percent.

Among the country’s top national officials, Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo recorded the lowest approval and trust ratings with 43 percent and 39 percent, respectively.

The pollster further noted that public assessment of the administration’s performance was “generally positive,” with very few changes recorded between the March survey and the previous poll it held last November.

The 3 most urgent issues that respondents felt the government needed to address were controlling inflation (60 percent), increasing workers’ pay (44 percent), and creating more jobs (30 percent).

The survey results showed that 52 percent of Filipinos disapproved of the administration’s performance in addressing inflation. But majority of respondents approved of its performance in addressing other national issues such as calamity response and protecting the welfare of migrant workers.

The Pulse Asia survey was conducted between March 15 and 19, using in-person interviews with 1,200 adults aged 18 above across Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao. It had a ± 2.8 percent error margin.

Some of the key developments that took place at the time the survey was held included the assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, the House of Representatives’ approval of a bill calling for a convention to amend the 1987 Constitution, the Mindoro oil spill, and the naming of 4 additional military bases the United States can use under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

PH-TURKEY...

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as a recognition of the “services and sustainability efforts made in the award-winning Mactan-Cebu International Airport.”

Beginning the International Airport Association (IATA) Summer Season 2023, TK will be allowed to fly 12 times a week from Manila to Istanbul, five of which will also have a stop in Cebu as a co-terminal before flying back.

This will increase to 14 weekly flights in the IATA Summer Season 2024, seven of which TK should co-terminalize.

Meanwhile, Philippine Airlines will continue to codeshare with TK on the latter’s Istanbul-Manila flights and vice versa.

To help stir the growth of direct traffic, both sides also agreed to allow third-country code-sharing.

This means the Philippine and Turkish carriers can put their airline code and sell flights on third-country carriers that have the right to operate and carry traffic on international routes that include the territories of the Philippines and Turkey.

reach the place.

“Before we could even reach the place, the illegal miners would know we are coming through their informants who alert them using text messages or calls,” he said.

Carido said the illegal smallscale mining operations have gone beyond the Tampakan project tenement, apparently in the neighboring town of Columbio in Sultan Kudarat province.

Siegfred Flaviano, South Cotabato Provincial Environment Management Office chief, sounded the alarm on the presence of armed men allegedly involved in the illegal mining operations within the Tampakan project.

“[We can hear] warning shots every time we conducted monitoring and surveillance in the area,” he said in a statement.

Flaviano said he already brought the matter during the Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting held last month.

At least two sources from communities within SMI’s mining tenement separately confirmed the resurgence of illegal mining activities as well as the proliferation of loose high-powered firearms in the area.

Requesting anonymity for security reasons, they revealed the firearms were bought allegedly using money from the illegal small-scale mining operations or from the payment of the lands the villagers leased to the mining company.

The company rents land at P160,000 per hectare for 25 years, or P6400 annually.

Flaviano said the alleged financier of the illegal smallscale mining is known to them but he did not name the individual pending results of investigation.

He said they learned the name of the supposed financier from the only suspect they arrested during one of the raids they conducted.

The Tampakan project has yet to start commercial operations since it was officially launched in the town on January 17, 2003.

Since then, it has been facing staunch opposition from the local Catholic church and allied organizations on concerns over the environment, food security, health and human rights.

The firm is reportedly eyeing to commence full swing operations in 2026.

In a study, SMI revealed the Tampakan project has the potential to yield an average of 375,000 metric tons of copper and 360,000 ounces of gold per annum in the expected 17-year life of the mine.

Open-pit mining is the most viable method to extract the shallow deposits of the largescale mining project, the firm said.

South Cotabato banned open-pit mining in 2010.

However, in a ruling known only last month, the Court of Appeals said that the provincial ban on open-pit mining method applies only to small-scale mining operations, and does not cover large-scale mining operations, including the Tampakan project.

South Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr., following a meeting with Marbel Bishop Cerilo Casicas, had vowed to appeal the CA decision.

The diocese has been spearheading the campaign to stop the open-pit mining project of SMI. (Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews)

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ministration has tasked the City Engineer’s Office (CEO) to coordinate with the Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) concerning unused and dangling wires.

Meanwhile, DLPC has reached out to the family members of the victims to provide them with the immediate support they need.

In a statement, DLPC regretted the accident despite proactive measures to ensure safety.

“The company is working closely with local government authorities to investigate the cause of this incident,” it said.

INFO... FROM 3

tahan sila,” Allong said during the AFP PNP Press Corps media forum on Wednesday at the Royal Mandaya Hotel.

Allong said a serious education and information campaign is needed because there are still many students who are asking for the help of the commission.

According to him, these students and employees have to submit the guidelines or policy to the school administration and their company for them to be fully aware of the policy.

“After sa resolution ginahatag nato na sa mga implementing agencies like TESDA, DepEd, ug Dole, aron ipa-ensure nga ma-implement na nga mga polisiya,” he said.

Allong said all schools in Davao City have implemented and followed the wearing of hijab policy.

“Diri sa Davao City nagapasalamat ang Muslim community sa paghatag ug respeto sa atong mga igsoon na Muslim. Ang Muslim wala gapangayo ug special attention or treatment pero isip usa ka citizen sa Pilipinas just like other tribes and culture importante nga mahatagan ug respeto ang culture ug tradition,” he said.

He also thanked the companies and schools that allowed students and women employees to wear hijabs, especially during Ramadan.

“Ang mga students ug empleyado kailangan nila i-perform they have to pray 5 times a day and usahay maigo nila ang schedules sa regular class or working hours. Naay mga considerations nga ginahimo ang ubang companies pero uban na wala nakahibalo niani, we can still adjust,” he said. By Maya M.

Padillo

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on that. That’s why the National Cybersecurity Strategy for 2028 will try to address that. We can incentivize people to work in the government, especially cybersecurity personnel,” he said.

Among the measures eyed is the NSTP scholarships for cybersecurity professionals, Dy said.

Despite the limited professional network in the country, Dy said 95 percent of recorded attacks in the country in 2022 have been “remediated.”

“When I say remediated, it could be the attack was successful, but we were able to inform the government agency, for them to do something about it,” he said.

The Philippines ranked 4th in Kaspersky’s 2021 study that examined global cybersecurity and digital privacy companies that are targeted by hackers.

alike.”

PSC and Inter-Agency Task Force Chairman Richard Bachmann arranged the FBWC gathering attended by the Office of the Executive Secretary, leaders and representatives of various government agencies, FBWC Committee, and PSC Commissioners Olivia “Bong” Coo, Matthew “Fritz” Gaston, Walter Francis Torres and Edward Hayco.

“Today, we move one step closer to fulfilling our goal of bringing the best World Cup hosting in the history of FIBA Basketball,” said Bachmann.

“I also thank our national government for Administrative Order No. 5 issued by Malacanang last March 27th directing all government agencies and instrumentalities to extend their support for this hosting.”

Bachmann also expressed optimism in the hosting of the prestigious basketball event while assuring everyone that, “all timelines, concerns and deliverables expected from each of us here will be met, as we, at the PSC, continue to work hand-in-hand with the SBP and other vital agencies. Our Team Pilipinas needs the team within us.”

On August 25-30 this year, the group phase of the competition will be hosted simultaneously by the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia. The final phase is slated September 5-10.

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Dr. Gerna Manatad, DOHDavao assistant regional director, said that the situation is manageable, assuring the public that the current facilities for COVID-19 patients in the region are sufficient and not overburdened.

“We are at a very much controlled number of cases,” she said.

Manatad said the utilization rate for the health care facilities devoted for confirmed COVID-19 cases and symptomatic patients is still at moderate-risk.

A data released by DOHDavao showed that 33 out of 51 mechanical ventilators are used while 251 out of 635 non-ICU beds and 58 out of 129 ICU beds are occupied.

Manatad said the agency has prompted other private hospitals to open up COVID-19 beds in the event cases continue to rise.

She explained that the positivity rate might have appeared high because of the changes in the testing protocols of DOHDavao.

Manatad urged the public to keep observing the minimum health standards, particularly the physical distancing and mask in crowded and enclosed spaces, and to avail of the free vaccination to get an additional layer of protection against the disease.

Pasion said that only those patients who are symptomatic and immunocompromised would be swabbed while the asymptomatic close-contacts don’t need to undergo reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test.

She said that at least 248 samples are being processed daily. (Antonio L. Colina IV / MindaNews)

Malacañang leads meeting for 2023 FIBA World Cup hosting

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. extended his support to the hosting of FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 and the Philippine Sports Commission-led Task Force by calling a meeting Wednesday, April 12 at the Malacañang Conference Room in Manila.

“This administration is committed to providing the Inter-Agency Task Force with all the necessary support and assistance it needs in order to fully achieve its objectives and to secure the safe, orderly, and successful conduct of the

CHITO MALABANAN JABONG!

And so after the two days of heavy rains that battered Augusta have settled down, and after the sun have shone brightly on Sunday afternoon for a new king to be crowned, only one golfer stood alone after a magnificent back nine run. Viva John Rahm. No doubt, Rahm’s win proved only one thing. He is the best golfer in the world.

Meanwhile, Brooks, Phil and Patrick’s strong showing also proved that they are not a bunch of has-beens as labeled them to be, but still are in the peak of their game. They erased the idea, the myth that LIV players, because of their different format and limited schedule and smaller field couldn’t handle a major like the Masters. They did. The trio finished among the top four and twelve among the 18 from their tribe made the cut.

In the same sense The Masters also proved that even the top golfers in the world are not spared from the punishing conditions at the Augusta. Nobody is guaranteed of making the cut even though you are ranked among the top ten in the world just like what happened to Justin Thomas and Rory, the poster boys of the PGA.

tournament,” said Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Hubert Guevara who represented PBBM in the meeting.

Guevara encouraged all those involved to work together for a successful FBWC staging, saying, “Let us all take this en-

deavor both as an opportunity and as a challenge—an opportunity to showcase what the Philippines has to offer and a challenge to make the FIBA Basketball World Cup a great experience for athletes and fans

FMALACAÑANG, P10

WHAT MAKES THE MASTERS INTERESTING

Freddie Couples surviving the cut is a proof that age is not a hindrance in making it to the weekend in a major while Tiger’s withdrawal is a testament that mind, will and skill are not enough to finish the race but health is a major factor in his case.

This year’s Master’s edition proved once again the dreaded unwritten code. The final round doesn’t start until the back Nine.

The myth and now becoming a tradition cum superstition among the golfers lives on. Nobody is assured of green jacket after leading at the 54th hole mark. Ironically, Greg Norman’s monumental collapse of 1996 Master’s was refreshed once again after Brooks meltdown on the first 9 hole of the final round.

Do the best golfers in the world able to participate in the 2023 Masters? Yes, they did.

This becomes possible since the Masters format in their invitation is different from the other majors where much weight is given to OWR (Official World Golf Ranking). Here in the Masters, the best players from the LIV were able to compete with the top guns of the PGA.

The Masters is unique in the sense that even unranked play-

ers were invited though they lack points in the OWR just like some of the LIV golfers who are mostly past Green Jacket winners and are ranked in the top four in the other three majors of previous year. Can the other majors followed suit? They cannot. Even though they are independent in the sense from the PGA , the other majors have put so much emphasis on the OWR and the ranking of the golfers and that’s a big blow to the LIV golfers.

What makes past Green Jacket sentimental?

By tradition, the Masters is the perfect place for past Masters champions to savor their past glories and to reconnect with their old chums and with new champs, a fraternity of past champions. They feel emotional with the wild cheers and adulation engulfing the 18th green as they approached until after finishing their last putt.

This year’s edition put some lump on my throat seeing Larry Mize and Sandy Lyle making their final march on the 18th green ,waving their cap teary eyed for the last time to their adoring fans. Retiring from competitive golf after years of competitive golf highlighted by their green jackets in 1987 and

1988 respectively.

QUESTION : Do the fans enjoyed the undeclared war among the PGA and LIV players in Augusta?

The splintered factions of professional golfers who convened in Augusta, Georgia this year have brought with them so much storylines bursting from every angle. If only the profes-

sional golf is like a movie, then everybody would have loved its storylines, the drama and the pivotal moments, but golfing fans deserve more than that. They want to see the best golfers competing against each other sans of politics. They love to see golf played in each its purest form. They deserve only the best.

Justin Brownlee leads the way for Gilas Pilipinas. It’s still a question if he will be picked as the naturalized player for the Philippines.

HOW SWEEP IT IS

Filipinas sweep OQT first round after drubbing HK 4-0

The Philippine women’s football team completed a three-match sweep of Group E action in the first round of the Paris Olympics Qualifying Tournament (OQT) after drubbing Hong Kong, 4-0, in Dushanbe, Tajikistan on Tuesday night.

A brace from Sarina Bolden set the tone for the Filipinas as they clinched a place in the second round of the qualifiers in November.

Bolden struck first in the 5th minute after driving from the midfield into the box for the goal.

She then drilled in another goal from just outside the penalty in the 41st minute to make it 2-0.

Merryl Serrano then converted a free kick in

the 44th minute as the Filipinas finished the first half ahead, 3-0.

Quinley Quezada eventually sealed the deal in the 53rd minute with her own strike from longrange.

The Filipinas will turn their attention now to the gear-up for the Southeast Asian Games next month as they continue their road to their maiden appearance in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in July. (PNA)

Sarina Bolden scores a brace for the Philippine women’s football team. (Photo from Philippine Women’s National Football Team Facebook page)