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Php20.00
•• 7 SECTIONS PAGES • VOL. 120 NO. 165 36
THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2019
Trusted since 1898
Duterte gives self ‘5’ or ‘6’ passing mark on governance
Senate cops out, Duterte left with budget decision
02%3)$%.4 2ODRIGO $UTERTE HAS GIVEN HIMSELF A PASSING GRADE FOR HIS PERFORMANCE AS THE NATION S LEADER IN HIS kRST THREE YEARS IN OFkCE )N HIS SPEECH DURING A CAMPAIGN RALLY IN +ORONADAL #ITY 3OUTH #OTABATO ON 4UESDAY $UTERTE SAID HE WOULD RATE HIMSELF gABOUT OR u FOR GOVERNING THE COUNTRY g) WILL BE THROUGH IN THREE YEARS Para sa akin ;&OR ME= ) AM IF ) RATE MYSELF NOW ) M ABOUT OR u THE 0RESIDENT SAID $UTERTE MADE THE STATEMENT AS HE VOWED TO CONTINUE TO SUSTAIN HIS CAMPAIGN PROMISES OF kGHTING ILLEGAL DRUGS
F i r s t word 3 WE near the climax of THE BUDGET BATTLE IT SEEMS THAT ALL THE SOUND AND FURY SERVE ONLY TO CONkRM THE PREGNANT OBSERVATION OF POLITICAL SCIENTIST 3AMUEL (UNTINGTON THAT IN THE 53 PRESIDENTIAL SYSTEM THE PRESIDENCY DOMINATES THE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS g4HE
OBSERVER YEN MAKABENTA
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ÂłGovernanceA8
ÂłMakabentaA4
Otso Diretso’s sacrilegious campaign graphic
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ON’T vote for candiDATES YOU feel like VOTING FOR That’s the latest advice from the Commission on Elections and the Catholic Bishops Conference of the 0HILIPPINES "OTH THE #OMELEC AND THE #"#0 TOLD VOTERS NOT TO BASE THEIR CHOICES ON VOTER PREFERENCE SURVEYS
REPUBLIC SERVICE RICARDO SALUDO
ÂłSaludoA5
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Respect
53TRA,)!. 3EN Frazer Anning WAS SILLY FOR BLAMING THE #HRISTCHURCH MASSACRE ON IMMIGRANTS )T WAS STUPID AND RECKLESS EVEN "UT ) WILL NOT SING THE PRAISES OF THE YOUNG MAN WHO RUDELY SMASHED AN EGG ON THE SENATOR S HEAD
FR. RANHILIO CALLANGAN AQUINO
ÂłAquinoA6 REACH US AT: E-mail: newsdesk@ manilatimes.net Tel. Nos.: 524-5664 to 67 Address: 2/F Sitio Grande, 409 A. Soriano Avenue, Intramuros, Manila 1002
ON THE TRAIL
President Rodrigo Duterte speaks during the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan campaign rally at the South Cotabato Sports Complex in Koronadal City on Tuesday. MALACAĂ‘ANG PHOTO
Duterte to fire more officials BY CATHERINE S. VALENTE
P
RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday announced he would fire more officials next week, as he vowed to give his “best shot� to get rid of corruption in government. )N REMARKS DURING THE $EPARTMENT OF 3OCIAL 7ELFARE AND $EVELOPMENT S DISTRIBUTION OF
11 ‘big actresses’ on drug list – PNP THE 0HILIPPINE $RUG %NFORCEMENT Agency (PDEA) on Wednesday said 11 FAMOUS ACTRESSES WERE ON THE AGENCY S WATCHLIST 0$%! $IRECTOR 'ENERAL !ARON !QUINO SAID THE AGENCY S DRUG LIST INCLUDED A TOTAL OF CELEBRITIES MOSTLY IN THEIR S TO S
g;/UR LIST HAS= BIG NAMES /F THE ONLY THREE OF THEM ARE OLD !LL OF THEM ARE YOUNG u HE SAID (E REVEALED THAT TWO OF THESE CELEBRITIES WERE DRUG PUSHERS ONE A PUSHER OF SHABU AND THE OTHER OF PARTY DRUG ECSTASY !QUINO SAID THERE COULD BE ABOUT CELEBRITIES ON THE DRUGS WATCHLIST
ÂłDrug listA2 FOR FAILING TO ESTABLISH ANTI-DRUG ABUSE COUNCILS
ÂłOfficialsA8
What’s inside
DILG files complaints vs 51 local execs
DUTERTE ORDERS REARREST OF SUSPECT USPECT IN TE TEE TEEN’S T E SLAY RegionsA7 CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION, A USELESS AGENCY
Ramon TulfoA6
STARSTRUCK WINNER ARRESTED FOR HIT AND RUN
NewsA8
IF ALL INTELLIGENCE UNITS FROM DIFFERENT AGENCIES MERGED THEIR LISTS 4HE Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police (PNP), .ATIONAL "UREAU OF )NVESTIGATION AND VARIOUS BARANGAY (villages) have their OWN WATCHLISTS
NEW EXPRESSWAY
Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar leads the groundbreaking of the new CaviteLaguna Expressway. PHOTO BY BOY JOSUE
THE DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Wednesday filed administrative complaints against 51 local ofkCIALS FOR HAVING LOW FUNCTIONING OR NONEXISTENT !NTI $RUG !BUSE #OUNCILS !$!#S 4HE COMPLAINTS FILED BEFORE THE /FkCE OF THE /MBUDSMAN ACCUSED THE LOCAL EXECUTIVES OF MISCONDUCT AND DERELICTION OF DUTY
ÂłComplaintsA2
Palace calls Justice Carpio ‘unpatriotic’ CLIPPERS, CELTICS CLINCH PLAYOFF BERTHS SportsC1
FROM ‘MISS SAIGON’ TO MRS. ZAMBRANO AND MORE
EntertainmentD1
MALACAĂ‘ANG on Wednesday hit BACK AT 3UPREME #OURT 3ENIOR !SSOCIATE *USTICE !NTONIO #ARPIO CALLING HIM gUNPATRIOTICu FOR SUPPOSEDLY SHOWING gLOOPHOLESu IN THE COUNTRY S LOAN AGREEMENT WITH #HINA
)N A TELEVISION INTERVIEW 0ALACE SPOKESMAN 3ALVADOR 0ANELO SAID #ARPIO WAS gUNPATRIOTICu BECAUSE HE WAS EFFECTIVELY GIVING #HINA AN IDEA THAT WOULD PUT THE 0HILIPPINES AT A DISADVANTAGE
g3IYA ANG LUMALABAS NA UNPATRIOTIC DITOw 0ARANG TINUTURUAN NIYA PA ANG #HINESE Wala namang loopholes, BINIBIGYAN NIYA PA NG loopholes (He IS COMING OUT TO BE UNPATRIOTIC IN THIS
³’Unpatriotic’A2
A2
News
˜ The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
‘Yellows’ using Acierto vs govt — Duterte P
BY CATHERINE S. VALENTE
YEAR THAT HE APPOINTED 9ANG AS ECONOMIC ADVISER (OWEVER A MONTH LATER 0ANELO ADMITTED THAT 9ANG WAS INDEED one of the President’s economic gCONSULTANTS u 9ANG WAS SEEN IN SEVERAL PHOTOS VISITING -ALACAÄAN 0ALACE AS WELL ACCOMPANYING $UTERTE TO #HINA IN
RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday claimed that dismissed policeman Eduardo Acierto, who linked his former economic adviser to the illegal drug trade, was being used by the opposition to discredit his administration. ‘Irresponsible )N REMARKS DURING THE $EPARTMENT OF 3OCIAL 7ELFARE AND $EVELOPMENT S DISTRIBUTION OF GRANTS TO BENEkCIARIES IN +ORONADAL #ITY 3OUTH #OTABATO $UTERTE TRIED TO DISCREDIT !CIERTO URGING THE PUBLIC NOT TO BELIEVE THE FORMER POLICE OFkCIAL TAGGED IN AN 0 BILLION SHABU SMUGGLING LAST YEAR g$ON T BELIEVE IN !CIERTO 4HIS SON OF A B
H ,ET ME ASK THE MILITARY AND POLICE WHY IS THAT SON OF A B
H STILL ALIVE u $UTERTE SAID $UTERTE SAID HE KNEW !CIERTO WAS gCORRUPT u CITING HIS DISMISSAL FROM SERVICE DUE TO AN ANOMALOUS PURCHASE OF RIlES WHICH ENDED IN THE HANDS OF .EW 0EOPLE S !RMY REBELS g(E WAS THE GUY WHO IMPORTED !+ S ONE THOUSAND SOMETHING PIECES 4HEN HE DELIVERED THEM TO THE .EW 0EOPLE S !RMY 4HIS FOOL IS A POLICE OFkCER u HE SAID $UTERTE ALSO ACCUSED !CIERTO OF BEING INVOLVED IN KIDNAP FOR RANSOM ACTIVITIES AS WELL AS IN THE SLAY OF +OREAN BUSINESSMAN *EE )CK JOO INSIDE #AMP #RAME 1UEZON #ITY IN
‘Plain businessman’ !CIERTO WHO ONCE SERVED AS THE OFkCER IN CHARGE OF THE NOW DEFUNCT Philippine National Police (PNP) !NTI )LLEGAL $RUGS 'ROUP EARLIER CLAIMED THAT -ICHAEL 9ANG A #HINESE BUSINESSMAN AND $UTERTE S ECONOMIC ADVISER WAS INVOLVED IN THE DRUG TRADE (E CLAIMED 9ANG WAS BEHIND A CLANDESTINE DRUG LABORATORY DISCOVERED IN $AVAO #ITY IN AND THAT 9ANG ALSO RECEIVED TWO FOOTER VANS FROM #OTABATO #ITY BROUGHT
Q ‘UNPATRIOTIC FROM A1
Palace calls CASE )T SEEMS LIKE HE IS EVEN TELLING THE #HINESE WHAT TO DO 4HERE ARE NO LOOPHOLES BUT HE IS MAKING SOME u 0ANELO ADDED DURING AN INTERVIEW WITH !"3 #". .EWS #HANNEL g*USTICE ka ng 3UPREME #OURT dapat protective ka nga sa ating INTERES PARANG KUMAKAMPI KA DOON SA KABILA IN A WAY 9OU ARE A 3UPREME #OURT JUSTICE SO YOU SHOULD PROTECT THE COUNTRY S INTEREST "UT IT SEEMS LIKE YOU ARE ALIGNING WITH THE OTHER PARTY IN A WAY u HE SAID Panelo made the statement afTER #ARPIO CLAIMED "EIJING COULD SEIZE THE COUNTRY S GAS RESERVES IN THE 2EED "ANK IN THE 3OUTH #HINA 3EA IF -ANILA WAS UNABLE TO PAY ITS MILLION LOAN IT OBTAINED FROM #HINA FOR THE #HICO 2IVER 0UMP )RRIGATION 0ROJECT Citing a provision of the agreeMENT #ARPIO SAID THE COUNTRY EXPRESSLY WAIVED IMMUNITY OVER ITS ASSETS INCLUDING gPATRIMONIAL assets and assets dedicated to comMERCIAL USE u He noted that these patrimonial assets and assets dedicated to comMERCIAL USE INCLUDE THE OIL RICH 2EED "ANK
remarks’
TO $AVAO #ITY Acierto also claimed that another #HINESE !LLAN ,IM WAS INVOLVED IN THE NARCOTICS BUSINESS BUT THE INFORMATION WAS IGNORED BY THEN 0.0 CHIEF 2ONALD g"ATOu DELA 2OSA !CIERTO CLAIMS TO HAVE SUBMITTED A CONkDENTIAL WRITTEN REPORT DETAILING THE SUPPOSED LINKS OF 9ANG AND ,IM INTO THE ILLEGAL DRUG TRADE TO HIS SUPERIORS IN THE 0.0 THE 0HILIPPINE $RUG %NFORCEMENT !GENCY 0$%! AND TO 3EN 2ICHARD 'ORDON CHAIRMAN OF THE 3ENATE "LUE 2IBBON #OMMITTEE AS WELL AS TO OTHER -ALACAÄANG OFkCIALS IN BUT THERE HAS NO ACTIONS !CIERTO SAID HE BELIEVES HE EARNED THE 0RESIDENT S IRE FOR SUBMITTING AN INTELLIGENCE REPORT ON 9ANG )N 4UESDAY S REMARKS THE 0RESIDENT DEFENDED 9ANG SAYING THE LATTER WAS A PLAIN BUSINESSMAN (E SAID 9ANG S SUPPOSED ASSOCIATION WITH HIGH RANKING #HINESE OFkCIALS INCLUDING 0REMIER 7ANG 9I SHOULD SPEAK VOLUMES ABOUT HIS INTEGRITY “3I 9ANG DUMATING 9ANG ARRIVED IN ) TOLD HIM DO BUSINESS BUT NOT DRUGS u THE 0RESIDENT SAID 9ANG HAS BEEN ONE OF $UTERTE S ECONOMIC ADVISERS BUT HIS CONTRACT WAS TERMINATED ON $EC 0ALACE SPOKESMAN 3ALVADOR 0ANElo said that if the allegations against 9ANG WERE TRUE gTHIS 0RESIDENT WILL not tolerate anyone regardless of STATURE OR RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM u "UT FOR NOW gUNLESS YOU CAN SHOW PROOF THAT HE 9ANG IS INVOLVED THE TRUST AND CONkDENCE ;OF THE 0RESIDENT= REMAINS u 0ANELO ADDED $UTERTE DENIED IN /CTOBER LAST
/PPOSITION 3ENATE CANDIDATES ON Wednesday decried the tirades of $UTERTE AGAINST !CIERTO “!LAM KAYA NI 0ANGULO zYUNG LUMALABAS SA KANYANG BIBIG (Does THE 0RESIDENT KNOW THE WORDS COMING OUT OF HIS MOUTH u SAID HUMAN RIGHTS LAWYER *OSE -ANUEL g#HELu $IOKNO IN A NEWS BRIEkNG IN 3AN *UAN #ITY g)F THERE S REALLY NO TRUTH TO WHAT HE IS SAYING WHY DOES THE 0RESIDENT IMPLICITLY WANT TO SILENCE HIM u HE ADDED URGING $UTERTE TO STOP DELIVERING IRRESPONSIBLE REMARKS -AGDALO PARTY LIST 2EP 'ARY !LEJANO REITERATED THAT THE 0$%! AND THE 0.0 SHOULD IMMEDIATELY RELEASE ACCURATE DATA ON THOSE INVOLVED IN ILLEGAL DRUGS TO kNALLY SHED LIGHT ON the effectiveness of the administraTION S DRUG WAR $ETAINED 3EN ,EILA DE ,IMA HAS URGED !CIERTO TO MAKE PUBLIC HIS INTELLIGENCE REPORT ABOUT THE ALLEGED LINKS OF THE TWO #HINESE TO THE ILLEGAL DRUG TRADE 4HE SENATOR SAID THE DOCUMENT THAT !CIERTO SUBMITTED TO HIGHER AUTHORITIES IN gSHOULD BE MADE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC SCRUTINY AND VALIDATION OF THE INFORMATION u “Almost three years since he LAUNCHED HIS ANTI NARCOTICS CAMPAIGN $UTERTE STILL FAILED TO APPREHEND BIG TIME DRUG USERS AND PUSHERS WHO CONTINUE TO PROFIT FROM ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES WHILE HE PERSISTENTLY TARGETS THE POOR u DE ,IMA SAID “The intel report of Acierto, if PUBLICIZED AND VERIkED WILL RAISE QUESTIONS AS TO $UTERTE S REAL
0ANELO WHO IS THE CHIEF LEGAL COUNSEL OF 0RESIDENT 2ODRIGO $UTERTE INSISTED THAT THERE WAS NO collateral in the loan agreement AND THAT THE 0HILIPPINES WOULD gNEVER DEFAULTu ON THE DEBT (E EXPLAINED THAT NATURAL GAS DEPOSITS IN THE 2EED "ANK COULD BE EXPLOITED AND SOLD TO PAY THE COUNTRY S LOAN FROM #HINA g9UNG NATURAL gas NA KINUHA MO SA LUPA @PAG IBINENTA MO NANG may share ANG GOBYERNO IYUN ANG KUKUHANIN NILANG KABAYARAN SA UTANG MO 4HE NATURAL GAS THAT YOU GOT FROM THE LAND WHEN YOU SELL THAT IN A WAY THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD GET A SHARE THAT S WHAT THEY WILL GET AS PAYMENT FOR YOUR LOAN u 0ANELO SAID “Hindi ka magde DEFAULT kasi palaging kasama sa BUDGET iyan 9OU WON T DEFAULT BECAUSE THE PAYMENT IS ALWAYS INCLUDED IN THE BUDGET u HE ADDED 4HE #HICO 2IVER PROJECT STRADDLING +ALINGA AND #AGAYAN PROVINCES BROKE GROUND IN *UNE )T WAS AMONG SIX BILATERAL AGREEMENTS SIGNED IN !PRIL LAST YEAR "AYAN -UNA #HAIRMAN AND CANdidate for senator Neri ColmenaRES EARLIER TAGGED THE 0 BILLION AGREEMENT AS A gONE SIDEDu DEAL SAYING IT COULD TURN OUT TO BE A gDISASTER FOR THE 0HILIPPINES u 4HE &INANCE DEPARTMENT HOW-
EVER SHRUGGED OFF THE WARNING SAYING THERE WAS NO BASIS FOR IT #ARPIO WORRIES TOO MUCH *USTICE 3ECRETARY -ENARDO 'UEVARRA TOLD REPORTERS (E SAID THE LOAN WAS TOO SMALL AND COULD EASILY BE PAID BY THE 0HILIPPINES g) THINK WE RE JUST REALLY JUMPING THE GUNw ) THINK WE REALLY DON T HAVE MUCH TO WORRY ;ABOUT= u HE SAID 'UEVARRA ALSO NOTED THAT THE $EPARTMENT OF &INANCE HAD SCRUTINIZED THE CONTRACT WITH #HINA AND IT SAID THERE IS gNOTHING UNUSUALu ABOUT IT BECAUSE IT IS LIKE THE OTHER LOANS ENTERED INTO BY THE COUNTRY WITH "EIJING /N THE ISSUE OF ARBITRATION #ARPIO SAID #HINA WAS ALWAYS ON THE WINNING SIDE BUT 'UEVARRA COUNTERED THAT ANY ARBITRATION SHOULD BE FAIR AND ANY AWARD MUST BE VALIDATED BY A 0HILIPPINE COURT The 20-year loan deal for the #HICO 2IVER 0UMP )RRIGATION 0ROJECT WAS SIGNED BY #HINESE AMBASSADOR :HAO *IANHUA AND &INANCE 3ECRETARY #ARLOS $OMINGUEZ RD ON !PRIL ! REPORT BY THE 5NITED 3TATES %NERGY )NFORMATION !DMINISTRATION SAID THE 2EED "ANK COULD HOLD UP TO BILLION BARRELS OF OIL AND TRILLION CUBIC FEET OF NATURAL GAS CATHERINE S. VALENTE AND JOMAR CANLAS
INVOLVEMENT IN THE DRUG TRADE IN THE COUNTRY u THE OPPOSITION SENATOR SAID 3EN !NTONIO 4RILLANES TH declined to comment on allegaTIONS THAT HE WAS CODDLING !CIERTO (E INSTEAD TURNED TO 4WITTER TO DEFEND !CIERTO g,IKE ALL HUMAN BEINGS #OL !CIERTO IS NO SAINT "UT LIKE ALL 0-!ERS HE KNOWS HIS DUTY TO HIS COUNTRY u 4RILLANES SAID !CIERTO BELONGS TO THE Philippine Military Academy Class OF $E ,IMA SAID THAT IF $UTERTE WAS gSERIOUS IN kGHTING ILLEGAL DRUGS HE SHOULD SEEK A PROBE INTO THE SUPPOSED INVOLVEMENT OF 9ANG INTO THE DRUG TRADE IF NOT FACE CHARGES AGAINST HIM u 3HE NOTED THAT THE 0RESIDENT IN /CTOBER ADMITTED TO RECEIVING A gDOSSIERu IDENTIFYING 9ANG AS A gDRUG USER OR A DRUG PUSHERu ‡ POSSIBLY IN REFERENCE TO !CIERTO S REPORT ‡ AND CLEARED 9ANG S NAME WITHOUT HAVING THE #HINESE INDIVIDUAL INVESTIGATED
Duterte ‘just angry’ Reacting to the criticisms, PNP CHIEF /SCAR !LBAYALDE TOLD REPORTERS $UTERTE WAS SIMPLY ANGRY AT !CIERTO g;$UTERTE= IS JUST ANGRY ;AND= WE do not take it that he means someTHING u HE SAID !LBAYALDE ON 7EDNESDAY CONkRMED THAT THE 0.0 WAS CONDUCTING VALIDATION OF 9ANG S ALLEGED INVOLVEMENT IN ILLEGAL DRUGS AFTER !CIERTO S STATEMENTS !LBAYALDE SAID THIS THE DAY AFTER HE CLEARED 9ANG OF INVOLVEMENT IN THE ILLEGAL DRUG TRADE g4HE 0RESIDENT DID NOT STOP US OR DID NOT TELL US TO STOP OUR VALIDATION 4HERE IS NO HARM IN VALIDATING ;9ANG= u HE TOLD REPORTS !LBAYALDE ADDED THAT CONDUCTING VALIDATION ON 9ANG COULD gBOOST THE statement of the President and even THE AMBASSADOR OF #HINA IF HE REALLY HAS NO INVOLVEMENT u WITH GLEE JALEA, BERNADET TE E. TAMAYO AND ROY D.R. NARRA
Ressa, 6 others post bail in Anti-Dummy Law case RAPPLER top editor Maria Ressa AND MEMBERS OF THE 2APPLER BOARD POSTED BAIL ON 7EDNESDAY AFTER BEING CHARGED WITH VIOLATING THE !NTI $UMMY ,AW BEFORE A COURT IN 0ASIG #ITY 'OVERNMENT PROSECUTORS ACCUSE Rappler of illegally raising capital FROM FOREIGNERS CITING THE #ONSTITUTION THAT BARS FOREIGN OWNERSHIP IN MASS MEDIA 4HE CASE IN THE 0ASIG COURT INVOLVES THE ISSUANCE OF 2APPLER INVESTMENT INSTRUMENTS TO 5NITED 3TATES BASED GROUP /MIDYAR .ETWORK &UND Named in the criminal informaTION DATED -ARCH WERE OFkCERS AND MEMBERS OF 2APPLER (OLDINGS #ORP ‡ -ANUEL !YALA .ICO *OSE Nolledo, Maria Angelita Ressa, Glenda Gloria, James Bitanga, FeLICIA !TIENZA AND *AMES 6ELASQUEZ 2ESSA WAS OVERSEAS 4HE CASE kLED BY THE .ATIONAL "UREAU OF )NVESTIGATION #YBERCRIME $IVISION WILL BE HEARD BY THE 0ASIG 2EGIONAL 4RIAL #OURT "RANCH WHICH RECOMMENDED A 0 BAIL FOR EACH OF THE RESPONDENTS 4HE CHARGE WAS SIGNED BY 3ENIOR !SSISTANT #ITY 0ROSECUTOR 2ANDY %STEBAN AND APPROVED BY 3ENIOR
!SSISTANT #ITY 0ROSECUTOR #AMILO $UMLAO ND 4HE PROSECUTORS ALLEGE THAT ON /CT 2APPLER ISSUED 0HILIPPINE $EPOSITARY 2ECEIPTS TO /MIDYAR 4HE CHARGE DESCRIBED THE INvestor “as a foreign corporation NOT ALLOWED PROSCRIBED BY THE #ONSTITUTION OR THE LAWS OF 0HILIPPINES TO ACQUIRE OR USE THE SAME THEREBY ALLOWING OR giving the right to Omidyar .ETWORK &UND ,,# TO INTERVENE in the management, operation, administration and control of 2APPLER )NC AND 2APPLER (OLDINGS #ORP IN VIOLATION OF THE OF THE ANTI DUMMY LAW u Rappler editor Miriam Grace 'O TWEETED THAT EDITORS AND BOARD MEMBERS OF THE ONLINE NEWS OUTkT HAD ALREADY POSTED OVER 0 MILLION IN BAIL g2APPLER BOARD MEMBERS HAVE JUST POSTED BAIL OF ALMOST 0 MILLION ‡ FOR JUST CASES u SHE TWEETED ON 7EDNESDAY g!ND THIS IS NOT AN ATTACK ON INDEPENDENT MEDIA u )N &EBRUARY 2ESSA POSTED BAIL AFTER AN ARREST WARRANT WAS ISSUED AGAINST HER IN A SEPARATE CYBER LIBEL CASE ARIC JOHN SY CUA AND PNA
Q DRUG LIST FROM A1
11 ‘big actresses’ g)MAGINE CELEBRITIES AND IT IS JUST ON THE 0$%! WATCHLIST )F WE COMBINE THEM ALL TOGETHER IT CAN REACH UP TO PROBABLY u the PDEA chief said in English AND &ILIPINO !QUINO HOWEVER SAID THEY WERE STILL VALIDATING THEIR OWN LIST CONtaining names of those allegedly INVOLVED IN DRUG ACTIVITIES ,EVI /RTIZ 0$%! 3PECIAL %NFORCEMENT 3ERVICE DIRECTOR PREVIOUSLY SAID THE TWO CELEBRITIES PUSHING SHABU AND ECSTASY WERE IN CONTACT WITH DRUG DEALER 3TEVE 0ASION WHO WAS KILLED IN A BUY BUST ON -ARCH "ASED ON TEXT MESSAGES UNCOVERED BY 0$%! OPERATIVES THE TWO CELEBrities ordered 200 pieces of ecstasy FROM 0ASION (E HOWEVER ADDED THAT THEY WOULD NOT PUBLICIZE THE NAMES OF THESE CELEBRITIES UNTIL THEY HAD
FULLY VALIDATED THE VARIOUS LISTS g)T WILL GO kRST THROUGH THE VALIDATION PROCESS 7E JUST CAN T DISCLOSE THE LIST TO THE PUBLIC WITHOUT EVEN UNDERGOING SOME PROCESS OF VALIDATION !GAIN IT S A LONG PROCESS AND ) JUST HOPE THAT TIME WILL COME THAT WE ;WOULD HAVE= VALIDATED ALL OF THEM INCLUDING ;THOSE IN= THE MEDIA ;WHO ARE ALSO ENGAGED IN DRUG ACTIVITIES= u !QUINO SAID He added that they already have a RAW LIST OF PEOPLE IN THE MEDIA WHO WERE ALSO INVOLVED IN DRUGS !QUINO SAID THE 0$%! HOWEVER HAD YET TO ORGANIZE THE MEDIA LIST 4HE GOVERNMENT PREVIOUSLY REleased a list of so-called narcopolitiCIANS AND VILLAGE OFkCIALS ALLEGEDLY DEALING IN DRUGS )T SAID THE MOVE WAS MEANT TO GUIDE VOTERS ON WHO TO CHOOSE IN MIDTERM ELECTIONS IN -AY THIS YEAR ROY D.R. NARRA
MADE IN CHINA The Armed Forces of the Philippines receives engineering equipment purchased from a Chinese company. The equipment will be used for the rehabilitation of Marawi City. PHOTO FROM AFP-PIO
Q COMPLAINTS FROM A1
DILG files The DILG and the DangerOUS $RUGS "OARD ISSUED *OINT -EMORANDUM #IRCULAR ON -AY gENJOINING ALL LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS ,'5S TO ACTIVATE STRENGTHEN AND ENSURE THE FUNCTIONALITY OF THE ,OCAL !NTI $RUG !BUSE #OUNCILS u g4HEREAFTER NUMEROUS $),'
-EMORANDUMS AND $ANGEROUS $RUGS "OARD 2EGULATIONS WERE ISSUED TO REMIND AND DIRECT THE ,OCAL #HIEF %XECUTIVES TO ORGANIZE THEIR RESPECTIVE ,OCAL !$!#S u ONE OF THE COMPLAINTS STATED g#LEARLY ASIDE FROM BEING A GROUND TO DISCIPLINE SUSPEND OR REMOVE AS PROVIDED UNDER 3EC of the Local Government Code, NON COMPLIANCE TO THE DUTIES provided in DDB-DILG Joint -EMORANDUM #IRCULAR
WARRANTS THE FILING OF NECESSARY ACTION (ENCE THIS ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT u IT ADDED 4HE $),' CITED OFkCIALS FOR FAILING TO ORGANIZE ANTI DRUG COUNCILS .INE FACE COMPLAINTS FOR ALLEGEDLY LOW FUNCTIONING COUNCILS %IGHT OF THE OFkCIALS WERE ON the narcolist of politicians inVOLVED IN THE ILLEGAL DRUG TRADE DISCLOSED EARLIER THIS MONTH BY 0RESIDENT 2ODRIGO $UTERTE REINA C. TOLENTINO
News
˜ The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
PRESIDENT TO SPEND BIRTHDAY SLEEPING ON his 74th birthday, President Rodrigo Duterte will do what he had done in past birthdays — stay at home and sleep. In a speech during a campaign rally in Koronadal City, South Cotabato on Tuesday, the President said he preferred to spend his birthday quietly with his loved ones. “I really do not want to celebrate. I just want to stay at home and sleep,� he said. “And if there is somebody welcome to me, it’s my children and grandchildren,� he added. Duterte, the oldest to be elected as Philippine president, has shunned grand parties even when he was mayor of Davao City. Last year, the President celebrated his birthday in a similar fashion, with a simple family get-together. His former top aide, Christopher Lawrence “Bong� Go, wished Duterte“50 more years to live to serve our fellow Filipinos.� “Tulad ng pangako ko, hanggang sa huling hininga ng aking buhay ay sasamahan ko siya at hindi iiwan (As I promised, until my last breath, I will stay with him),� Go said as he thanked the President for giving him the chance to serve the nation. Some members of the Cabinet also wished the President
a long life. Peace adviser Carlito Galvez Jr. and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia had warm words for their boss. “On behalf of the men and women of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, we would like to greet our No. 1 peacemaker a happy, happy birthday,â€? Galvez said. “Malipayon kaayong adlaw sa pagka-tao nimo, SeĂąor Presidente! (Happy birthday to our President!) The Filipino people sincerely hope that you feel fulfilled and happy about the good things you’ve done to transform the country,â€? Pernia said. The President was born on March 28, 1945 in Maasin, Southern Leyte to Vicente Duterte, who was governor of the province of Davao, and Soledad Roa, a teacher. Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana also greeted the President. “I wish that each and every Filipino will see how hard you work for them so they will understand how much you really love your country and your people. Iba ka, sir!â€? Medialdea said. CATHERINE S. VALENTE
THURSDAY
March 28,
2019
A3
Duterte will spare no one in drug war – Go S
ENATE hopeful Christopher Lawrence “Bong� Go said President Rodrigo Duterte would not spare anybody, including his friends and close associates, IN THE kGHT AGAINST ILLEGAL DRUGS
Go on Tuesday said the President would dissociate himself from friends or allies who would be found to have links with the illegal drug trade. “Sa mga narcopoliticians, sa mga nasa droga, kahit na sabihin na kaibigan namin kayo ni Pangulong Duterte, mas delikado po kung lumalapit kayo sa amin. Basta sangkot kayo sa ilegal na droga, mas delikado ang buhay ninyo (For narcopoliticians, for those who use drugs, even if you are our friends, it would be dangerous to seek our help. So long as you are into drugs, your life hangs in the balance),� Go said. He made the statement after Eduardo Acierto, former deputy director for administration of the Philippine
National Police’s Drug Enforcement Group, presented pictures showing Go with businessman Michael Yang and Allan Lim, who were allegedly involved in the drug trade. According to Go, the pictures with Yang and Lim do not prove anything because in the course of his public life, many people ask to have a picture with him. “Hindi ko po naman maiiwasan na maraming nagpapa-picture sa akin, hindi ko naman po pinipili lahat ng nagpapa-picture sa akin, lalong-lalo na po na isa akong kandidato ngayon (It cannot be helped that many would like to get their picture with me, especially now that I am a candidate),� he explained, adding that the President
HAD ALREADY CLARIkED THE 9ANG ISSUE Duterte brushed off Acierto’s allegations against Yang and disclosed that the dismissed police officer had been involved not only in the illegal drug trade, but also in other illegal activities such as extortion and gun-running. “Ang trabaho nitong si Acierto ‌ iyong mga Chinese na magpunta dito investor, alam na may pera, hinuhuli nila, ikukulong sa isang lugar tapos manghingi ng ransom kasi daw nahuli na may drugs (Acierto’s job was to arrest Chinese investors who come to the Philippines to invest and then ask for ransom, claiming they were caught with drugs),â€? Duterte said. Duterte said the group of Acierto was also involved in the killing of South Korean Jee Ick Joo. Go said Acierto was behind the importation of 1,000 pieces of AK-47 RIlES THAT ENDED UP IN THE HANDS OF THE New People’s Army. It was also Acierto’s group, ac-
cording to Duterte, who set up former drug-buster, Lt. Col. Ferdinand Marcelino and linked him to drug syndicates. The Department of Justice eventually dropped the charges against Marcelino. $UTERTE RECALLED kRST MEETING 9ANG in Davao in 1999. “Yang came here sa (in) Davao in 1999, sabi niya magnegosyo siya (he said he would go into business). I distinctly remember, I said: ‘You can come here, do legal business, but don’t do drugs because I will bury you alive’,� Duterte noted. He said Yang started by opening a small appliance and gadget store in Davao City. He eventually became the owner of the DCLA Mall. Go admitted that he knows Yang, but that he does not know Lim. Go questioned the timing of Acierto’s allegations, noting that the disMISSED POLICE OFkCER CAME OUT WITH his accusations with less than two months before the May 13 elections.
Duterte ‘in a hurry’ to strike a deal with Misuari PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday said he was “in a hurry� to forge a new peace agreement with Moro National Liberation Front Head Nur Misuari. In his speech during a campaign sortie in Koronadal City on Tuesday night, Duterte said that while the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) was “satisfactory� for Moro Islamic Liberation Front chief Al Hajj Murad Ebrahim, he has to deal with Misuari again. “Dito sa (here in) Mindanao, we were also grappling with so many fronts. I am dealing with the drug p problem and, at the same time, I am
in a hurry to strike a deal with Nurr Misuari,� Duterte said. “The BOL is satisfactory accordingg to Murad, as it is. So long as it is imple-mented correctly. Kay Misuari naman n (but with Misuari), we have to deall with him again. And I hope that wee COULD kND THE SPACE THE TIME AND THE E issues that would be more acceptablee to everybody, to both the Lumads thee Christian and the Moro,� he added. Duterte’s statement came days afterr he admitted that Misuari threatened d to declare war against the governmentt if the federalism measure is not passed d in Congress. CATHERINE S. VALENTE
NEW PORTRAIT Freddie Luna Cruz, great-grandson of Juan Luna, paints a portrait of President Rodrigo Duterte for the Chief Executive who turns 74 on Thursday. PHOTO BY ENRIQUE AGCAOILI
Threat groups use social media to spread extremism – Lacson SEN. Panfilo “Ping� Lacson on Wednesday said threat groups were using social media to spread violent extremism among young Muslim Filipinos. In a speech on Wednesday at the Youth Assembly on Violent Extremism and Interfaith Dialog organized by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), Lacson cited a report published by a nonprofit international development organization in February 2019, which showed “how social media is becoming a potent tool not only in spreading extremist causes, but also in reaching and recruiting young Filipino [Muslims] in Mindanao.� “Extremism sympathizers tried to exploit community sentiments on social marginalization, economic inequality
and rooted local grievances against the state,� said Lacson, a former Philippine National Police chief. “The first line of defense against violent extremism, I believe, is education; creating awareness and cultivating our young people’s critical thinking and resilience will equip them with skills they need to detect and reject violent extremism and make informed decisions and contest extremist ideologies,� he said. NCMF head Saidamen Pangarungan said the agency trained Filipino Muslim youth about the true values of Islam, “which is a religion of peace and that Islam demands love and respect.� “We warned them not to be swayed into the arms of the Jihadi-Salafist doctrine of radical Islam. We urge them to
report to the authorities at the first opportunity any movement or infiltration by ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) militants within their ranks,� he said. “We pursued these youth assemblies with interfaith dialog in Cebu and now in Metro Manila. If our budgetary support will permit, we shall replicate the same in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi and in other cities, which are potential targets of terrorism,� Pangarungan said. “What happened in Marawi should not be allowed to happen again in any other Philippine city. Never again. Marawi should be the first and last victim of violent extremism in the Philippines,� he added. The Islamic State-inspired Maute group seized Marawi City on May 23, 2017 to establish a caliphate in Mindan-
ao. Government forces ended the siege on October 23 of the same year. Pangarungan said the NCMF partnered with the United Nations Development Program and Japan in its peace-building project. Lacson said a more circumspect and proactive approach in countering extremism was needed. “Coming from the ranks of law enforcers, I have always been acquainted with serious challenges posed by the risks of terrorism and insurgency in our country,� he said. “Unfortunately, despite the continuous efforts of past and present governments to counter such security threats, recent events tell us that the Philippines remains bedeviled by senseless acts of
violence and terror,� he added. He said figures between 1969 and 2010 showed that the country suffered more than 593 attacks of varying degrees. From 2000 to 2007 alone, bomb attacks carried out by extremists claimed the lives of over 400 civilians and injured over a thousand more. He lamented that the global terrorism index of 2018 ranked the Philippines as the 10th country most negatively affected by terrorism. “It pains us to see the Philippines in the list of top 10 countries including Iraq, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Syria, Pakistan and Somalia. In fact, our country experienced the highest negative impact from terrorism among states in the Asia-Pacific region,� said Lacson,
chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs. In Marawi alone, the government reported the death of 900 Maute members and sympathizers, 168 government forces and 47 civilians. “Furthermore, the fighting in Marawi forced out 72,000 families or 395,000 individuals, many of whom remain displaced to this day,� Lacson said. “It is even alarming that we have reports of emerging radicalization and extremist armed movement in some parts of our country. One of its visible manifestation was the first confirmed suicide bombing in Jolo in January of this year, which resulted in multiple deaths and injuries,� he said. JAVIER JOE ISMAEL
Excessive tardiness can be a cause for termination Dear PAO, My best friend works as a probationary employee for an airline company. During her job offer, she mentioned to the company’s Human Resources representative that she desires to be assigned IN THE BRANCH OFkCE WHICH IS located in our town, because she knew that she might have a hard time since the schedule being given to her is from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. But she was told that there were no vacancies there and that they could place her application on hold until there were vacancies. Since she needed the job, she accepted the offer. Unfortunately, since she lives VERY FAR FROM THE OFkCE WHERE she was assigned, she incurred a lot of tardiness. Although she was reprimanded several times by her supervisor, they were still in good terms. That is why she
and 284 of the Labor Code of the Philippines, it is not entirely correct to say that those were the only bases DEAR PAO for termination. As a rule, a probationary employee may be terminated for a lawful cause or if he fails to qualify as a regular employee pursuwas shocked to receive a notice ant to the reasonable standards set last week that they no longer in- by the employer, which was made tended to continue her services known to the employee at the time after the end of the month due of his engagement. This is clearly to her excessive tardiness. Can provided for under our Labor Code: “Article 281. Probationary emthey validly do this? We did our research and learned that an em- ployment – Probationary employployee may only be terminated ment shall not exceed six months for just and authorized causes. from the date the employee start7E DID NOT kND ANYWHERE THAT ed working, unless it is covered tardiness could be a cause for by an apprenticeship agreement termination. Please enlighten us. stipulating a longer period. The Zanjo services of an employee who has been engaged on a probationary Dear Zanjo, While it is true that a private em- basis may be terminated for a ployee may be terminated for any just cause or when he fails to of the just and authorized causes qualify as a regular employee mentioned under Articles 282, 283 in accordance with reasonable
PERSIDA ACOSTA
standards made known by the employer to the employee at the time of his engagement. An employee who is allowed to work after a probationary period shall be considered a regular employee.� (Emphasis supplied) It is apparent that your best friend was terminated due to her excessive tardiness. To our mind, she failed to meet the reasonable standards set by the employer. Our Supreme Court ruled that habitual tardiness could be considered as gross or habitual neglect of duty, which is a just cause to dismiss an employee. Thus, her employer had a valid ground to terminate her. As explained by the Supreme Court: “A probationary employee, like a regular employee, enjoys security of tenure. However, in cases of probationary employment, aside from just or authorized causes
of termination, an additional ground is provided under Article 281 of the Labor Code, i.e., the probationary employee may also be terminated for failure to qualify as a regular employee in accordance with reasonable standards made known by the employer to the employee at the time of the engagement. Thus, the services of an employee who has been engaged on probationary basis may be terminated for any of the following: (1) a just or (2) an authorized cause and (3) when he fails to qualify as a regular employee in accordance with reasonable standards prescribed by the employer. “Punctuality is a reasonable standard imposed on every employee, whether in government or private sector. As a matter of fact, habitual tardiness is a serious offense that may very
well constitute gross or habitual neglect of duty, a just cause to dismiss a regular employee. Assuming that petitioner was not apprised of the standards concomitant to her job, it is but common sense that she must abide by the work hours imposed by the bank.� (Carvajal vs. Luzon Development Bank and/ or Ramirez, GR 186169, Aug. 1, 2012, Ponente: Associate Justice Jose Portugal Perez) We hope that we were able to answer your queries. This advice is based solely on the facts you have narrated and our appreciation of the same. Our opinion may vary when other facts are changed or elaborated.
Editor’s note: Dear PAO is a daily column of the Public AttorNEY S /FkCE 1UESTIONS FOR #HIEF Acosta may be sent to dearpao@ manilatimes.net
A4
Opinion
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
˜ The Manila Times w w w.manilatimes.net
E d i to r i a l OUR ECONOMIC AND CARBON FOOTPRINT DILEMMA:
To grow or not to grow much
A
JOLTING report released by The International Energy Agency (IEA) this week revealed that the Philippines is in at least one respect among the COUNTRIES SIGNIkCANTLY CONTRIBUTING TO THE PROBLEM of rising harmful carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. According to the IEA report, overall global energy demand grew 2.3 percent in 2018. About half of that increase was attributable to demand for electricity, which rose by 4.0 percent from the 2017 level. The report attributed the increase in energy demand to stronger economic growth. Renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power did meet some of the higher energy demand — solar power output alone increased by 31 percent in 2018 — but double-digit expansion was not enough to keep up with the world’s appetite. Nearly half of the increase in electricity generation, the biggest contributor of CO2 emissions, was fueled by natural gas, with the use of much more polluting coal decreasing in most parts of the world. Despite this, harmful emissions from coal increased in 2018, accounting for 10 billion of the estimated 33 billion metric tons (MT) of annual CO2 emissions. ,AST YEAR WAS THE kRST YEAR COAL EMISSIONS BREACHED the 10-billion MT threshold, and that was entirely due to the increased use of coal in Asia, primarily in just six countries: China, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam. To make matters even worse, improvements in ENERGY EFkCIENCY HAVE DECLINED TO AN INSIGNIkCANT level last year. Meanwhile, for each percentage point growth in global economic output, there was a corresponding increase in CO2 emission of 0.5 percent. Compare that with year 2010, when the increase in emissions was just 0.3 percent per percentage point of economic growth. The two key alarming takeaways from the IEA report are these: First, if the world continues on its current path, the ambitious goal of the 2015 Paris Accord to limit global warming to 1.5-2.0 degrees celsius over preindustrial levels is not only completely unobtainable, but man’s damaging impact on the climate is actually growing worse. 3ECOND FOR THE kRST TIME EVER THE 0HILIPPINES HAS BEEN IDENTIkED AS A CLEAR CONTRIBUTOR TO THE GROWing problem of harmful emissions. Until now, the common perception is that the Philippines is more of a climate victim than a source of harmful climate change, particularly when compared with more heavily industrialized countries, such as China. It is still true that our output pales in comparison, but no longer can we claim that we are not contributing to our own harm. It would seem that we are facing an insoluble dilemma. In order to improve the lives of all Filipinos and support a growing population, we must maximize our economic potential. Doing so, however, risks increasing harm to lives, property and the environment, and potentially puts our very survival at stake. The recent IEA report has shown us that we are not on the right path to safeguarding our future. It should be taken as a clear warning and challenge for us all, policymakers, businesses and private citizens alike, to take climate change seriously and change the way we live and work before it is too late. ~
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
The Manila Times
VOLUME 120 NUMBER 166
DANTE A. ANG, Chairman Emeritus RENE Q. BAS, Publisher Emeritus NERILYN A. TENORIO, Publisher-Editor ARNOLD E. BELLEZA, Executive Editor FELIPE F. SALVOSA II, Managing Editor LEENA C. CHUA, News Editor LYNETTE O. LUNA, National Editor TESSA MAURICIO-ARRIOLA, Lifestyle Editor PERRY GIL MALLARI, Sports Editor LEA MANTO-BELTRAN, Supplements Editor JOMAR CANLAS, Chief of Reporters RENE H. DILAN, Chief Photographer DANTE F. M. ANG 2ND, President and CEO BLANCA C. MERCADO, #HIEF /PERATING /FkCER RODA A. ZABAT, Advertising Director VICENTE P. CRUZ, JR., Circulation Director DENISE O. CALNEA, Marketing Communications and Services Director Telephone All Departments: 524-5665 to 66; Subscription: 524-5664 Local 222 Advertising: 524-5664 Local 121 Telefax: 310-5895 or e-mail advertising@manilatimes.net XXX NBOJMBUJNFT OFU t F NBJM OFXTEFTL!NBOJMBUJNFT OFU Letters to the Editor THE MANILA TIMES is published daily at 2/F Sitio Grande, 409 A. Soriano Avenue, Intramuros, Manila 1002 The owners, managers, publishers and editors do not necessarily share the opinions expressed and the statements made by individual authors of columns, commentaries and other articles published in The Manila Times.
Interrogating the mystery of Imee Marcos’ graduation from UP
H
ER critics have been incessantly attacking her credentials, almost like a scheduled appointment in its regularity. Not contented with casting doubt on the law degree she claims she obtained from UP, and her claimed undergraduate degree from Princeton, even Imee Marcos’ high school credentials are now being questioned as well. In the heat of their passionate desire to torpedo Imee Marcos’ senatorial ambitions, her critics and doubters don’t even bother to ask — if it was true that she did not even have a high school diploma, how can Princeton University, an Ivy League school at that, admit someone without a high school
waived its rules and gave Marcos’ daughter preferential treatment. In any case, it is now apparent that the damage from impugning Imee’s high school and bachelor’s degree credentials is not limited to her, but diploma? To date, Princeton has on IN FACT BEARS UNlATTERING COLLATERAL its records evidence of Imee’s actual damage on two prestigious academic enrollment, which is not contested. institutions, namely Princeton UniIt would also put into doubt versity and UP, for not doing their jobs UP’s diligence in having admit- and failing to diligently uphold their ted into its much vaunted law admissions standards. program someone who allegedly I am not familiar with Princeton actually doesn’t have the neces- University procedures, but I am with sary pre-law credentials. Either UP, where I taught for 18 years. It is THE ADMISSION PROCESS IS lAWED in this context that I am perplexed at or that despite UP’s image of THE FACT THAT ONE OF ITS OFkCIALS 4EDDY being the bastion of critical inde- Herbosa, has alleged that there is no pendence towards Marcos, it had record of Imee’s graduation from the
ON THE CONTRARY ANTONIO CONTRERAS
College of Law, even as there are images, further vouched by no less than those who were in attendance, of her participating in what now appears to be authentic graduation ceremonies. What has come out that is now unchallenged is that Imee Marcos was admitted to the law program, completed all her requirements, even had a weighted average that could have earned her Latin honors, and participated in the graduation rites. What is now alleged is that she was not given her diploma due to her DEkCIENCY OF NOT HAVING PRESENTED pre-law credentials. Any faculty member of UP will TELL YOU THAT THE PROCESS OF CONkRM-
ÂłContrerasA5
Q MAKABENTA FROM A1
Senate cops out, Duterte left with budget decision congressional role in legislation has largely been reduced to delay and amendment.� No matter how “strong� are the reservations of Vicente Sotto 3rd about signing the 2019 General Appropriations Bill, the man did not rise to his responsibility as Senate president. He abdicated when the reckoning came. With Senate Majority Leader Miguel Zubiri, Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, and Senate GADlY 0ANkLO ,ACSON BACKSTOPping Sotto like a chorus, the Senate in effect collectively ceded to President Duterte the responsibility for THE BUDGET AND ITS kNAL FORM The most that can be credited to the senators is that through their antics of harassing and manipulating the budget process, they managed to elevate the Senate’s secondary and concurring role in the process to the front row. In so doing, they presumably protected the earmarks or pork barrel of the senators while blackening those of the House representatives. At bottom, all that Sotto, Lacson, et al produced was “delay and amendment.� And a possible reduction by several percentage points of the gross domestic product (GDP).
large in the journal and proceed (if it decides) to reconsider it. If such reconsideration is supported by 2/3 of all the members of both chambers, it shall become law. The president shall communicate his veto of any bill to the house where it originated within 30 days after the date of receipt thereof; otherwise it shall become law as if he had signed it. Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo has said that the President and his advisers will fully scrutinize the enrolled bill, and Duterte will thereafter adopt one of the following courses of action: 1) sign the bill into law; 2) veto unconstitutional items in the bill; or 3) veto the entire bill. The President is on record as saying that he will not approve the budget if there are unconstitutional insertions in the budget bill, which was originally prepared by the Department of Budget and Management under his instructions and guidance, and has undergone considerable review and amendment by Congress committees. Duterte could apply a line-byLINE REVIEW AND THEN VETO SPECIkC provisions that do not meet constitutional standards and his approval. At this point, it is most likely that Duterte will use his line–item veto power. Neither blanket approval nor outright veto of the budget appears possible.
veto, provided by Wikipedia. It says: "The line-item veto, or partial veto, is a special form of veto power that authorizes a chief executive to reject particular provisions of a bill enacted by a legislature without vetoing the entire bill. Many countries have different standards for invoking the line-item veto, if it exists at all. Each country or state has its own particular requirement for overriding a line-item veto." In the case of the Philippines, the Charter framers provided the line item veto power to the presidency. In the case of the United States, the American president did not get similar support. There is reason for the discrepancy. It was not until the presidency of Bill Clinton that the US Congress passed line-item veto legislation to control pork barrel spending. The Line Item Veto Act of 1996 was held to be unconstitutional by the US Supreme Court in a 1998 ruling in Clinton vs City of New York 4HE COURT AFkRMED A lower court decision that the lineitem veto was equivalent to the unilateral amendment or repeal of only parts of statutes and therefore violated the presentment clause of the US Constitution. Before the ruling, President Clinton applied the line-item veto to the federal budget 82 times. Since then, the prospect of granting the president of the United States a line-item veto has occasionally resurfaced in Congress, either through a constitutional amendment or a differently worded bill. As things stand, President Duterte has considerably more power over the budget than President Trump.
pick and choose. Theoretically, DU30 can veto all the earmarks that do not meet the constitutional test laid down by the Supreme Court in its decision outlawing the PDAF (Priority Development Assistance Fund). Theoretically, the President could decide to reward one group of legislators and deny others, based on criteria that he can set. Theoretically, he could also rule out all earmarks for the projects of the representatives of the front organizations of the CPP-NPA in the congress. There is no constitutional provision that senators and representatives are entitled to equal shares of pork barrel.
Reform starts with Senate
The hard truth is that there was never any sound basis for the enjoyment by senators of pork barrel or earmarks. Before Cory Aquino and her successors, there was never any presumption that a senator must enjoy his or her share of pork barrel. Pork was reserved for the district representatives, who had real constituents to serve and projects to design and implement. Duterte vetoes or approves Our senators do not have speCIkC CONSTITUENTS TO SERVE "EING The action now shifts to MalacaĂąang elected nationally, their constituand the President, who has the powency is the nation. It makes no er to approve, veto or amend in a kSCAL SENSE TO ASSIGN TO THEM HUGE limited way the appropriations bill. Duterte more powerful sums of money so they can apporThe Constitution lays down spe- than Trump tion at will morsels of pork to any CIkC PROVISIONS FOR THIS PART OF THE place they wish. budget process, such as in Article, 3IGNIkCANTLY WITH RESPECT TO VETO POWWhen the senators started to get VI, Sec. 27 (2): “The president shall er, President Duterte has more power pork, the entire pork barrel system have the power to veto any particular than the leader of the most powerful expanded exponentially. item or items in an appropriation, country in the world, Donald Trump. And then it went bonkers during revenue, or tariff bill, but the veto They both have veto power in the time of Benigno Aquino 3rd and shall not affect the item or items to their constitutional systems. Power to pick and choose his budget secretary, Florencio Abad. which he does not object.â€? Duterte, however, has line-item As a result, senators like Jinggoy As a bill is passed, the Congress veto power, by explicit constitu- Congressional leaders ought to Estrada, Bong Revilla, Juan Ponce shall present the bill to the presi- tional provision. Trump does not. have been more mindful of this Enrile and Gringo Honasan, got dent for approval or veto. power when they concocted their into trouble with their pork barrel. If the president vetoes the bill, he The line-item veto SCHEMES TO lEECE THE BUDGET OF ALL The system must be brought shall return the same with his objecthe earmarks or pork barrel that back to sanity, tions to the House where it originated, 4O EXPLAIN THE MATTER LET US TURN kRST they could lay their hands on. which shall enter the objections at to an explanation of the line-item The line-item veto is a power to yenmakabenta@yahoo.com
˜ The Manila Times THURSDAY March 28, 2019
w w w.manilatimes.net
T
IN MY LINE OF SIGHT RAMON T. TULFO was being interviewed on television. The senator hit the boy back. And you know what? Scott Morrison, the Australian prime minister, backs the boy’s action. Scott said the “full force of the law SHOULD BE APPLIED TO THE SENATOR u The son of a gun is backing a LAW VIOLATORÜ And the Australian public has raised A$47,000 for the boy’s LEGAL DEFENSEÜ As the title of a 1963 movie says, g)T S A MAD MAD MAD MAD WORLD u **** 3EN &RASER !NNING THE SENAtor whose head was made an egg-breaker by the teenager, got the goat of the Australian public FOR HIS )SLAMOPHOBIC COMMENTS (E BLAMED THE MASSACRES AT TWO MOSQUES IN #HRISTCHURCH ON the mass migration of Muslims to New Zealand. 'RANTING !NNING MADE AN IRresponsible, racist comment, why SHOULD HE BE gEGGEDu IN THE HEAD when his colleagues could have censured him in the Australian parliament? )SN T THERE FREEDOM OF EXPRESsion in Australia? (AVEN T THE !USSIES HEARD OF THE philosopher Voltaire’s beliefs? !S %VELYN "EATRICE (ALL WROTE when she did Voltaire’s biography, Voltaire’s beliefs could be described by the following stateMENT g) DISAPPROVE OF WHAT YOU SAY BUT ) WILL DEFEND TO THE DEATH YOUR RIGHT TO SAY IT u **** 0RESIDENTIAL DAUGHTER 3ARA g)NDAY 3ARAu $UTERTE #ARPIO IS ENdorsing former Leyte congressman Martin Romualdez as Speaker of THE (OUSE OF 2EPRESENTATIVES (OW SURE IS 3ARA THAT 2OMUALdez will win? Leyteño voters are so sick and tired of the Romualdezes as public OFkCIALS THAT THEY WANT NEW FACES Sara’s father, President Digong, is endorsing two congressional candidates for speakership— should they win in their districts. &ORMER FOREIGN AFFAIRS SECRETARY !LAN 0ETER #AYETANO WHO S RUNning in Taguig, and Marinduque
Rep. Lord Allan Velasco both claim that the President has endorsed them. The other speaker-wannabes are Representatives Ronaldo :AMORA 3AN *UAN #ITY ,UCY 4O R R E S ' O M E Z T H D I S T R I C T Leyte), Alex Advincula (3rd disTRICT #AVITE "EMBOL 4OLENTINO TH DISTRICT #AVITE AND 2ICKY Sandoval (Malabon). All of them are with the President’s political party, PDP-Laban. A dark horse for Speaker is %FREN 'ENUINO THE FORMER CHAIR of the Philippine Amusement AND 'AMING #ORP 0AGCOR who’s running in the second district of Laguna. 'ENUINO WILL MOST PROBABLY be supported by very powerful personalities, notably the Villar COUPLE 3EN #YNTHIA AND FORMER Sen. Manny, who are his relatives by affinity. 'ENUINO S SON %RWIN IS MARRIED TO #AMILLE 6ILLAR THE DAUGHter of the country’s richest man, Manny Villar. /F COURSE 'ENUINO HAS THE BLESSINGS OF THE CURRENT (OUSE 3PEAKER 'LORIA -ACAPAGAL !Rroyo, who appointed him to Pagcor when she was president. -Y SOURCES IN THE (OUSE SAID THAT AS 0AGCOR CHAIRMAN 'ENUino had dispensed favors to many congressmen and senators. Many of these legislators will win in the May elections and 'ENUINO S PAST FAVORS WOULD NOT be lost on them. **** Secretary Silvestre Bello 3rd of the Department of Labor and %MPLOYMENT HAS RECALLED ,ABOR Attaché Jalilo de la Torre from his POST IN (ONG +ONG BECAUSE HIS three-year term ends on March 31 of this year. (OWEVER $E LA 4ORRE WAS RECALLED TO THE HOME OFkCE FOR SIX MONTHS LAST YEAR AND MANY &ILIPINOS IN (ONG +ONG FEEL THAT THOSE six months should not be counted as part of his three-year term. (IS RETURN TO THE HOME OFkCE was due to unfounded accusations, and he eventually returned TO HIS POST IN (ONG +ONG Jolly, as the labor attaché is familiarly known, is an exceedingly good lawyer, as well as a veteran administrator. (E HAS HELPED OUR FELLOW
COUNTRYMEN IN (ONG +ONG IN many ways. These include inserting a ban on dangerous window cleaning in contracts for domestic workers, and stopping third-country deployment FROM (ONG +ONG TO COUNTRIES WHERE OUR /&7S ARE UNPROTECTED SUCH AS Russia and Turkey. (E EVEN INTRODUCED ADDITIONAL training and livelihood proGRAMS SO THAT /&7S CAN UPGRADE their skills, and would have the knowledge and skills in preparation for returning home. &INALLY HE HAS STARTED 0ROJECT (EALTH7)3% )T PROVIDES FREE BASIC MEDICAL EXAMINATION FOR OUR /&7S 3ECRETARY "ELLO ) KNOW WE HAVE HAD our differences, but Labor Attaché de LA 4ORRE IS A GIFTED AND BELOVED OFkCIAL TO OUR /&7S IN (ONG +ONG At the very least, he should be given the remaining six months TO kNISH HIS TERM !ND AFTER THAT he should be given a position where he can do the most good FOR OUR &ILIPINO HEROES OVERSEAS )T WOULD BE A SHAME TO SEE A man with many good ideas for helping our people remain underutilized. Let the six months taken away be returned to his term as a labor attaché. **** Much has been said about one of President Digong’s economic advisers, Michael Yang. The problem, though, is that there is a Michael Yang in the PhilIPPINE $RUG %NFORCEMENT !GENCY S .ATIONAL $RUG )NFORMATION 3YSTEM 0$%! $IRECTOR 'ENERAL !ARON Aquino said that he received a report from former Senior SuPERINTENDENT %DUARDO !CIERTO in August 2018 that there was an alleged drug pusher named Michael Yang. Director Aquino says that it is a different Michael Yang. Aquino says that his people are still looking into the matter. Michael Yang is no longer an economic adviser to the President, as his contract expired on Dec. 31, ACCORDING TO %XECUTIVE 3ECREtary Salvador Medialdea. (OWEVER THERE WAS A -ICHAEL Yang in the drug information system; he shouldn’t have been ASKED TO SERVE IN THE kRST PLACE As it is, the whole issue can affect the government’s efforts against illegal drugs.
Otso Diretso’s sacrilegious campaign graphic ice — take the place of the letters g/u AND g)u 'OD HAS BEEN TURNED into letters in a campaign graphic. As a journalist, this writer would normally have run a picture of the sacrilegious poster. "UT AS A DEVOUT #ATHOLIC ONE is so offended by this unprecEDENTED MISUSE OF 'OD S IMAGES for partisan politics, that one cannot bear to see it reproduced and disseminated in a daily paper. Scour the countless election CAMPAIGNS IN #HRISTIAN COUNTRIES AND ONE WILL NOT kND A SIMILAR misappropriation of the divine "ODY AND "LOOD OF #HRIST AND (IS REDEMPTIVE SACRIkCE ON #ALVARY FOR political campaigning. 4HE #"#0 SHOULD DENOUNCE THIS sacrilege, which is at least as bad as, if not worse than, say, candidates being portrayed as Jesus, Mary, OR POPULAR SAINTS )F THE BISHOPS don’t speak up, then their silence gives license for other religious imagery to be exploited for political propaganda. )F THE MISUSED IMAGES WERE Using God’s images in vain )SLAMIC THERE WOULD SURELY BE A nationwide outcry from Muslims, That faction or its LP campaign considering how deadly fatwas cohorts have now resorted to were declared against cartoons sacrilege in an aggressive effort satirizing the Prophet Mohamed. to sway the faithful. "UT MANY #ATHOLICS DON T Now spreading online is a SEEM BOTHERED BY #HRIST CRUCIposter that aims to harness the kED AS THE LETTER 4 AND (IS "ODY religious vote for Otso Diretso. AND "LOOD AS / AND ) 7HEN THE And in the propaganda graphic graphic appeared in a chat group there are three of the holiest im- FOR ALUMNI OF A #ATHOLIC SCHOOL AGES OF *ESUS #HRIST THE 3ECOND there were even thumbs-up icons Person of the divine Blessed Trin- posted in response. ity, used in place of letters in the 7HETHER MOST BELIEVERS ARE WORD g#!4(/,)# u SCANDALIZED OR NOT #HURCH LEAD#HRIST CRUCIFIED REPLACES THE ers must stand up for this lack of LETTER g4u WHILE PICTURES OF THE RESPECT FOR SACRED IMAGES OF 'OD Blessed Sacrament — the conse- (IMSELF )T MAY NOT BE AS BAD AS crated host and the host and chal- CALLING 'OD STUPID BUT TURNING
7
).34/. #HURCHILL SAID g7E shape our buildings; thereafter THEY SHAPE US u &RANK 'EHRY S INSIGHT on the work of an architect is: “Architecture can profoundly affect a place, sometimes transform it. Architecture and any art can transform a person, EVEN SAVE SOMEONE u )N MY YEARS OF experience as an architect and urban PLANNER ) HAVE BEEN FORTUNATE TO SHARE many unforgettable and life-changing moments with clients and colleagues and in my speaking engagements. !S PROFESSIONALS IN THE kELD WE ought to familiarize ourselves with emerging trends in architectural design that are changing the way peoPLE EXPERIENCE THE WORLD )N OUR profession, this implies learning and practicing green architecture. Broadly speaking, green architecture minimizes harmful effects on human health and addresses environmental sustainability. Architects all over the world are incorporating green sustainable PRACTICES ).TO THE DESIGN PROCESS !S a result, more and more buildings include trees and use solar panels, and architects are seeking creative solutions to achieve natural lighting and ventilation with sustainable materials. 4HE 53 !USTRALIA )TALY 3INGAPORE and the Scandinavian countries are leading the way in green architecture. )T IS ABOUT TIME THAT WE EXPLORED THE possibilities of green architecture HERE IN THE 0HILIPPINES )T IS A TIMELY moment in our history to apply the principles of green architecture to building design and to add value to the urban renewal initiatives in our country today. To adopt green architecture we need to employ its principles in the design process. These include: energy, WATER AND LAND USE EFkCIENCY LOW ENvironmental impact and conservation of natural characteristics; material efkCIENCY LOW MAINTENANCE COST WASTE reduction; use of renewable energy; and indoor environmental quality. Let us take a look at some of the world’s most innovative green architecture designs to have an idea of where we can possibly innovate next. !N ENERGY EFkCIENT DESIGN IS NOT NECESSARILY COMPLEX )F WE STUDY THE natural environment well, we can identify opportunities to incorporate sustainable techniques and designs to THE BUILDING &OR INSTANCE THE #ENTER FOR 3USTAINABLE %NERGY 4ECHNOLOGIES #3%4 IN .INGBO #HINA USES UNIQUE
FELINO A. PALAFOX, JR. UNDER lOOR HEATING PANELS THAT USE geothermal energy to heat and cool the atmosphere depending on the season. Like many green buildings, it includes a photovoltaic system that provides energy to the entire structure. The Diamond Lotus Riverside in Vietnam, when completed this MONTH WILL BE THE kRST IN A SERIES OF APARTMENTS WITH A ,%%$ CERTIkCATION in the apartments category. The development boasts the highest density of plants with 8,000 square meters of trees in the balconies of the facade and will feature meditation gardens and an ecological park along the river. These locations provide residents clean fresh air and an enjoyable view of the waterfront development right in front of the building. 'REEN ARCHITECTURE IS SUSTAINABLE when it uses materials with energyEFFICIENT FEATURES AND BENEFITS 7E can recycle materials — create insulation from recycled newspapers and cardboards and incorporate cotton insulation from recycled denim, stone and steel. Renewable materiALS LIKE CERTIkED WOOD AND SOLAR TILES contribute to lower carbon emissions because they are durable, locally available, non-toxic, and with low volatile ORGANIC COMPOUNDS 6/# )F YOU ARE FAMILIAR WITH gTHE POOR MAN S TIMBER u A K A BAMBOO YOU may have realized how abundant and renewable a resource it is in THIS PART OF THE WORLD (ERE IN THE Philippines, poor communities will use bamboo to build houses until they have money to reconstruct with stone or concrete. Architects in Southeast Asia use bamboo to design modern, contemporary buildings like THE %COLOGICAL #HILDREN !CTIVITY AND %DUCATION #ENTER IN 4HAILAND 5SING bamboo in architecture contributes TO SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY )T GENERATES jobs for both the supplier farmers and construction workers who get a chance to extend their knowledge from traditional bamboo construction techniques to contemporary ways of building. )NDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY refers to comfortable interior space
³PalafoxA6
Q CONTRERAS FROM A4
Q SALUDO FROM A1
So, even if opinion polls are designed to show their top senatorial preferences, voters are supposed to disregard their own preferences, as INDICATED BY SCIENTIkCALLY CRAFTED surveys, and vote for those who are not their dominant choices. One cannot recall in any election over the past decade or more when ELECTION OFkCIALS AND #ATHOLIC PRELates gave this advice. They certainly did not tell voters to set aside surveyleading candidates in the last three elections. So, why now? One suspects it’s because administration candidates dominate the latest voter surveys, while the Otso Diretso line-up of the opposition Liberal Party (LP) has just one candidate securely in the Magic 12 winning circle for the Senate contest. !ND WITH THE #ATHOLIC #HURCH at odds with President Rodrigo Duterte over his bloody war on drugs and his tirades against clergy AND #HRISTIANITY THE ANTI $UTERTE FACTION IN THE #HURCH SEEMS SET ON giving the LP a big boost.
A5
Green architecture
Civil Service Commission, a useless agency
(% #IVIL 3ERVICE #OMMISSION #3# HAS ANNOUNCED IT WILL soon conduct a surprise inspection of different government OFkCES AND AGENCIES INCLUDING local government units. 4HE #3# WHICH SETS STANDARDS of public service in government agencies, said it wants to make sure government workers are doing their jobs courteously and efficiently. #OWDUNGÜ )F IT WANTS TO MAKE SURPRISE VISITS TO GOVERNMENT OFkCES AND agencies, why announce it? 7HY NOT JUST MAKE #3# PERsonnel to government offices incognito? 4HE #3# JUST WANTED TO MAKE the people know that it still exists. )T S ONE OF THE NON PERFORMING agencies in government. **** #IVIL 3ERVICE #OMMISSIONER Aileen Lourdes Lizada said that she would personally lead the surprise inspection. She said she expects government employees to be quick, COURTEOUS AND EFkCIENT IN GIVING service to the transacting public. (EY -A AMÜ /F COURSE THEY WILL SHOW HOW EFkCIENT AND COURTEOUS they are when you’re around. But when you’re gone, they revert to their old ways: using mobile phones and playing online GAMES DURING OFkCE HOURS AND making people transacting business with them wait for hours, days and even weeks. “ Bumalik ka na lang bukas COME BACK TOMORROW u is the stock answer of most government workers to citizens who follow up their papers in their agencies. And when poor Juan de la #RUZ ORDINARY CITIZEN COMES back the following day, the government worker tells him to COME BACK gNEXT WEEK u And so on and so forth. *UAN DE LA #RUZ kNALLY GETS THE message and greases the palm of the government worker who makes him wait. And his papers are processed AND kNISHED IMMEDIATELY **** 7HAT S THIS WORLD COMING TO A 17-year-old boy smashed an egg on the back of the head of an Australian senator while the latter
Opinion
THE CRUCIkX AND THE %UCHARIST INTO font designs remains sacrilegious. The Liberal Party and its candidates should denounce the graphic, and apologize for the DISRESPECT TO 'OD AND OFFENSE TO DEVOUT #ATHOLICS 4HE ,0 SHOULD also strongly reprimand those who conceived and designed the graphic, and institute steps for vetting campaign materials. Religious imagery should be totally avoided. !S THE ,ORD SAID RENDER TO #AESAR WHAT IS #AESAR S AND TO 'OD WHAT IS 'OD S
A record of LP sacrilege Defenders of Otso Diretso’s campaign graphic may point to President Rodrigo Duterte as committing far graver offenses against the #HURCH WITH HIS CUSSING AGAINST 'OD AND 0OPE &RANCIS AS WELL AS his invectives and even threats against bishops and priests criticizing his war on drugs. Those presidential excesses certainly deserve to be denounced BY #ATHOLICS BUT THEY DO NOT AT ALL excuse or justify exploiting the PasSION AND $EATH OF #HRIST AND (IS 2EAL 0RESENCE IN THE (OLY %UCHARIST for partisan campaigning. 7HAT S WORSE THE ,0 SEEKING TO HARNESS THE #ATHOLIC VOTE ALSO committed grave offenses against THE BISHOPS AND EVEN 'OD (IMself ( https://www.manilatimes. net/president-duterte-vs-god-almighty-whos-winning/492415/). Then President Benigno Aquino 3rd did his own bishop-bashing and even went so far as underMINING THE VOICE OF 'OD (IMSELF %ARLY IN HIS RULE HIS APPOINTED HEAD OF THE 0HILIPPINE #HARITY 3WEEPSTAKES /FkCE ACCUSED EIGHT
prelates of receiving luxury sports UTILITY VEHICLES FROM 0#3/ DURING the Arroyo administration. That was utterly false, but Aquino let his sweepstakes maven Margaret Juico publicly malign what she labeled as “Pajero bishOPS u 4HANKFULLY 3ENATORS *UAN 0ONCE %NRILE AND THE LATE -IRIAM Defensor-Santiago came to the prelates’ defense, and it emerged THAT 0#3/ FUNDS WERE USED TO BUY mostly used vans and pickups for #HURCH CHARITY PROJECTS ‡ ALL PERfectly lawful for non-government organizations aiding the poor. The bigger affront to heaven came during the deliberations on the reproductive health bill IN #ONGRESS !QUINO CALLED ON legislators to vote according to their conscience — which is the VOICE OF 'OD IN THEIR SOULS "UT when voting came in December 2012, solons were told to approve the contraceptive measure or lose their pork barrel. Thus, mammon was used to inDUCE LAWMAKERS TO DISOBEY 'OD S inner promptings. And in January 2015, right in the FACE OF VISITING 0OPE &RANCIS !QUINO falsely claimed that bishops criticizing his regime were silent during his PREDECESSOR 'LORIA !RROYO S RULE )N FACT THE #"#0 USED STRONGER LANguage in her time, even lamenting: g7E LOOK AT OUR LANDSCAPE AND SEE DARKNESS EVERYWHERE u Now, this political party wants TO GET #ATHOLIC VOTES MISUSING SACRED IMAGES OF 'OD IN ITS ELECTION propaganda, with the eager help of some prelates, priests and laity. -AY 'OD ENLIGHTEN ALL POLITICAL stalwarts to see and repent of their OFFENSES AGAINST (IM (IS #HURCH AND (IS MINISTERS
Interrogating the mystery ing the candidates for graduation is not a secretive process that can be manipulated to favor a presidential daughter, more so that UP prides ITSELF ON ITS ANTI -ARCOS PEDIGREE )T starts with the list of candidates being deliberated upon by the faculty of a college in its regular meetings at the END OF EACH SEMESTER #ANDIDATES WITH DEkCIENCIES ARE APPROPRIATELY MARKED and their cases are taken up and debated. Once approved, the faculty as a collegial body then endorses it to THE 5NIVERSITY #OUNCIL COMPOSED OF all faculty members with the rank of assistant professors and up. But before this, it passes through the executive COMMITTEE OF THE 5NIVERSITY #OUNCIL 4HE 5NIVERSITY #OUNCIL IS THE highest decision-making body on academic matters in any autonomous UP unit; aside from approving academic programs, its other main function is to approve the graduation of the candidates endorsed by their respecTIVE FACULTIES #ANDIDATES WHO ARE NOT endorsed by their colleges can appeal THE DECISION TO THE COUNCIL 7HILE technically the Board of Regents still CONkRMS SUCH LIST IT IS OFTEN MINISTErial, and only in controversial cases and upon appeal that the regents will exercise their power to reverse a council decision on graduation. 5NIVERSITY #OUNCIL MEETINGS ARE known to be open and often contentious. Animated debates on academic matters, and even political issues, have OFTEN ENSUED DURING ITS SESSIONS ) remember standing up in the council on several occasions to defend the graduation of students who had some DEkCIENCIES ) VIVIDLY REMEMBER kGHTing for the right of one of my advisees, who our college faculty had endorsed to graduate, over the objections of the Dean of Students on the grounds of a pending discipline case. The debate that ensued was so intense, but even-
tually the plenary voted to grant the motion to allow her to graduate. )T IS IN THIS CONTEXT THAT IT PERPLEXES ME SO MUCH WHY THE ISSUE OF )MEE -ARCOS DEkCIENCY ABOUT HER ALLEGED lack of pre-law credentials could have not surfaced in both the faculty MEETING OF THE #OLLEGE OF ,AW AND the deliberations of the University #OUNCIL OF 50 $ILIMAN )F SHE LACKED requirements, her name would have been appropriately tagged with a mark, and would have been cited WHEN THE $EAN OF HER #OLLEGE MOVED for the council to approve the list which the college had endorsed. )N FACT IT BEHOOVES US TO ASK WHY AN ISSUE SUCH AS A DEkCIENCY IN THE admission requirements would have even reached the stage where the focus should not have been about whether OR )MEE WAS QUALIkED TO ENROLL IN THE program, but whether she was qualikED TO GRADUATE FROM IT )T IS JUST ODD THAT )MEE S DEkCIENCY could have escaped the open scrutiny of a process that even tackles mere requests for the changing of grades, or that erupts in passionate debates over misplaced words and punctuation marks in minutes or in curricular PROPOSALS )T WAS AFTER ALL 4HAT time was already politically troubled. Martial Law had already been lifted, and political unrest was simmering, ready to explode. UP was at the epiCENTER OF ANTI -ARCOS ACTIVISM )T IS therefore beyond imagination that THE 5NIVERSITY #OUNCIL OF 50 $ILIMAN WOULD HAVE ALLOWED )MEE WITHOUT debate, had her name been appropriATELY TAGGED AS HAVING A DEkCIENCY TO ever set foot onstage wearing a toga. And if her name appeared on the list of candidates without being tagged, if indeed she had an admisSION REQUIREMENT DEkCIENCY THEN IT IS obvious that someone at UP simply did not exercise due diligence.
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Opinion
˜ The Manila Times THURSDAY March 28, 2019
w w w.manilatimes.net
Q AQUINO FROM A1 “Sir� and “Ma’am� by which we used to hold our teachers in esteem and regard? Since when has it been That was an act of arrant disrespect, deleterious to be polite? a commodity of which our current We are collectively contributing civilization is in short supply. It was to a culture of rudeness. There is a rude and unconscionable. And while link between this pervasive climate HECKLING WHEN AN OFkCIAL OF THE LAND of “entitlement� and the lack of OR A RELIGIOUS LEADER HAS THE lOOR respect. “Please,� “kindly,� “May I� may be protected as an exercise of are verbal expressions that do not free speech, it remains rude and unac- sit well with “Karapatan ko,� “I am ceptable. Legal, perhaps, but impolite entitled,� “I have the right to.� There still. There are distressing indicators should be no incompatibility with a of this rapid decline in politeness, its growing consciousness of rights and gradual demise. “Sir� and “ma’am� an abiding respectfulness with which have been proscribed in some societ- we treat each other, but the fact is that ies as expressions of servility — totally we have set these two at loggerheads incompatible with the peddled myth with each other. To many motorists, of an egalitarian society. Even in the yielding to another is losing one’s Philippines, pupils address their right. I do not say “please� when I ask teachers as “Ms� or “Mr.� sometimes a government functionary to perform “Teacher.� What was wrong with a duty — precisely because I think it
Respect
his duty to perform, and my right to demand performance. We stupidly confuse effrontery with frankness, rudeness with courage, discourtesy with frankness. I have to say my piece — and even if that should ruin another completely or reduce his self-esteem to smithereens. That is the ethos of rudeness: one of complete self-absorption and utter obliviousness of the demands of respect. (IGH OFkCIALS OF THE LAND SPEWING profanities have emboldened minIONS IN THE LOWER RUNGS OF OFkCIALDOM to do likewise. One demeans his OFkCE BY ACTING DISRESPECTFULLY AND one invites disrespect on oneself. As love begets love, respect begets respect. You may sow fear, you may send your foes cowering as the frightened do before a bully, you may silence opposition — but you never
win respect that way, and long after YOU HAVE LEFT OFkCE YOU WILL REAP ONLY the bitter harvest of spite and opprobrium unless you have sowed the seeds of respect. A disciplined society is a respectful society, and when you attempt to impose discipline without instilling the underlying respect, all that you get is the bland and insipid fruit of external conformity. Is that not the impoverished fare to which our country is at present treated? Parents who allow their children to answer back rudely, to disobey house RULES WITHOUT CONSEQUENCE TO ESCAPE from household chores without some kind of accountability are the early purveyors of irresponsibility and unacceptable conduct. When schools and teachers tolerate rudeness, a great battle for respect is lost. Such lessons in the now inexistent subject “GMRC� (good
manners and right conduct), as keepING QUIET WHILE SOMEONE ELSE IS SPEAKing, sitting upright and not slouching, greeting teachers when one meets them, where has all this gone? What was so precious about what we traded all this for? When Philippine society accepts, even applauds, the rudeness of its leaders, we lose another front in the crusade for respect. National and local leaders are the heroes of the people — at least, for those who do not see through the trappings of high OFkCE "UT WHEN CURSING BLASPHEMING insulting becomes the “new normal,� then the norms of decency by which we have constantly reminded ourselves of the dignity of the human person go the sad way of oblivion — at our expense as a people. There is nothing pedantic nor ornamental about respect. It is the reason
Finding one’s feet
L
AST Saturday, March 23, I was at the release party of Icelandic artist Bjarki’s debut album “Happy Earth Dayâ€? in Berlin, held at theTrauma Bar und Kino behind BATA Bar & Billiards, named after our beloved billiard player Efren “Bataâ€? Reyes. Eight electronic music artists played that night. An underlying coherence and complementarity were present in the ordering of artists. A diverse lineup that peeled the body, layer after layer until it reaches the inner well of nothingness. A beautiful and shattering aural and physical experience — wrenching, freeing, sublimating. In their study of rave music, political scientists Friedhelm BĂśpple and Ralf KnĂźfer said that “the body takes up the attacks of the music from both ends with both ears and feet. The MUSIC HAS TO lOOD THE ENTIRE BODY AS in an electric massage. The feeling to be all body, a being-in-the-world, is the experience of bliss...â€? To have that “all bodyâ€? feeling, I decided to be not just totally sober that night. I also fasted that day. I wanted to be an empty vessel so I could fully absorb and immerse in the experience — to let my body just be a tuning fork. I arrived on time to catch half the SET OF THE kRST ARTIST $REAM 3EQUENCE Like a cradle, his set moved to and fro familiar and foreboding beats. In this world, there was certainty, desire and redemption. True to his name, it was A DREAMY SEQUENCE LAYERED WITH A FEW unexpected turns.
T
FOR THE MOTHERLAND
SASS ROGANDO SASOT Those were all shattered by ZiĂşr’s set. A gorgeous mindfuck. She began and ended it with a track she sang with. Her set was unpredictable, DISCONCERTING AND EXQUISITE %VERY now and then, she dropped tracks that served as oases in the desert-like dimension she teleported us to. Her set was hard to dance to in a conventional way that follows reguLAR PHRASING 4HE DIFkCULTY DIDN T only lie in its unpredictability: it was physically demanding. At one point, I wanted to just mosh around, as if in a punk concert. I stood in a corner and just reveled. Then it dawned on me: the incalculaBLE BUTOH DANCE STYLE WOULD DEkNITELY complement her set. Like butoh, ZiĂşr’s set didn’t intend to charm but to stun. Both are physically exacting. “Butoh begins with a dance wherein the dancer tries in vain to kND HIS FEET u SAID BUTOH FOUNDER Tbatsumi Hijikata. And we were doing just that throughout ZiĂşr’s SET ‡ TRYING IN VAIN TO kND OUR FEET KyĂľka was next. I’m not really sure if this is what her name meant, but KyĂľka in Japanese literally means “wild or mad poetry,â€? a sub-genre of tanka that transforms the vulgar and
THE MUNDANE INTO EXQUISITE VERSES (ER SET WAS EXACTLY THAT ‡ EXQUISITE madness. If ZiĂşr’s madness was brutal and in-your-face, Kyoka’s was a subdued form, like zen at the tail end of a rollercoaster ride. While ZiĂşr made us FORGET OUR FEET +YOKA LET US kND THEM slowly to prepare us for another snap out of insanity. After this lucid interval came the stunning Bjarki. From start TO kNISH HIS LIVE AUDIO VISUAL SET was sexy, overwhelming, stupefying. It felt like several EyjafjallajĂśkulls erupted within us. “The Ecstasy of St. Teresaâ€? is one of the masterpieces of Italian sculpture Gian Lorenzo Bernini. In this sculpture, an angel holding a spear stands before St. Teresa in a state of ecstasy, HER TOES AND kNGERS SENSUALLY CURLED That night, we were St. Teresa and Bjarki’s music was that spear repeatedly THRUST THROUGH OUR lESH AND BONES While Bjarki brought us to our innermost space, the next artist, Volruptus, fetched us out of it and hurled as out to outer space. A crazy ride through a sonic wormHOLE ! COMMUNIQUÂź FROM ANOTHER universe. When he dropped his iconic track Mysantrophy — Big Bang all over again! Volruptus’ spacey set then transitioned to Kuldaboli’s numinous set. This was the last artist whose performance I fully experienced. It was rapture! Body pulled between
agitation and bliss. Then he dropped a very spellbinding track which would be released in two months, Bjarki told me as he urged me to go dance in the middle of THE DANCE lOOR 7HEN HE PULLED ME there, I fully experienced what BĂśpple and KnĂźfe called “electric massageâ€? as the force of sound waves kept pounding me from various directions. The closest experience I ever had to this WAS WHEN MY kRST BOYFRIEND WHO WAS a Buddhist, brought me to one of their weekly sessions in a temple, where they chant “Namu MyĂľhĂľ Renge KyĂľâ€? in exhilarating unison. The viBRATIONS WERE SO ENGULkNG THAT ) JUST SURRENDERED ALL OF MYSELF TO THE lOW The last set of the evening was two DJs. My body was already demanding for me to breathe fresh air and eat. So, I left. “Underground art turns into mere trendiness because of the people practicing it,â€? Hijikata once lamented. “They create a desert around them, then complain there is no water. Why don’t they try drinking from the well of their own bodies? Let them pluck THE DARKNESS FROM THEIR OWN lESH u Bjarki’s release party was a respite from that trendiness. And that evening’s lineup served as the soundtrack as we drank from the well of our bodies and plucked the darkness from our OWN lESH ) WASN T ENTERTAINED ) WAS strummed. Mesmerizing.
E-mail: srsasot@gmail.com
The No.1 question that scientists ask
primarily through academic salaries and applying for grants. 2. Government or military — These positions offer direct service to a country and being part of a larger program or mission. There can be opportunities for recognition within the government and positions can also offer credibility, promotion and prestige. Some jobs are by contract per project, while others are tenured posts. Financial rewards may vary, with funding by country and dependent upon government budgets or grants. 3. Private industry or corporation — This sector generally commands higher salaries, more freedom in terms of problem-solving approaches to a problem, and is more results-oriented with a focus on the application of research. Progress in practical application tends to be valued ahead of rigor in research. Intellectual property is generally owned by the company you work for. Funding is generally through salaries with potential bonuses such as PROkT SHARING OR STOCK OPTIONS 4. Start-up or consultancy — These opportunities usually offer the great-
est degree of intellectual freedom in PURSUIT OF A SCIENTIkC APPLICATION YET less time to pursue research. More TIME MAY BE REQUIRED TO BUILD ONE S COMPANY AND RAISE PROkTABILITY FOR A business. Workdays can offer schedulING lEXIBILITY AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY is usually held privately. Income has no “glass ceiling� but comes with the highest risk. Funding is generally through commercial sales of a product or service, applying for grants or business loans, investors, and mergers or ACQUISITIONS 5. Humanitarian or nonprofit — This route generally offers less kNANCIAL REWARDS BUT GREATER SOCIETAL rewards. There can be a high degree of intellectual freedom, with a focus on helping others rather than pulling in A PARTICULAR REVENUE STREAM FOR PROkTS Opportunities can present globally in DIVERSE PARTS OF THE WORLD TO BENEkT humanity and can also include an advocacy component. Funding is generally donor-based or grant-based. A scientist can even engage in multiple routes at the same time (as in the case of public-private partnerships). The key is in knowing what you value and what you need at a particular juncture in life. Ultimately, a scientist must make a personal decision that aligns with his or her individual preferences, as there are
Ria Persad is a scientist who is an alumna of Harvard, Princeton and Cambridge universities. She was a climate modeler at Lawrence Livermore Lab and performed earth and solar system modeling at NASA. Persad was a consultant to Goldman Sachs and a climatologist at Duke Energy. She modeled complex systems for the US space program and collaborates with NOAA to advance environmental intelligence. She is the founding CEO of StatWeather, ranked No.1 globally in climate technology, and was ranked among the top 7 “Lifetime Achievement� Leaders in the Platts Global Energy Awards. Persad has received citations from the US Secretary of Energy and THE 53 3ENATE ON 3CIENTIkC !CHIEVEment and was the International Power-Gen and Renewable Energy Woman of the Year.
to incorporate high-performance, sound-absorbing materials and carpeting. The Artists Retreat in Sri Lanka through natural temperature control, — which functions as a residence, proper ventilation, and the use of studio, art storage and gallery — was products that do not give off toxic or designed to provide artists and guests compound gases. a cordial space for interaction and 4HE HEADQUARTERS OF - IN )TALY RElECTION ! ROOFTOP POND WITH WATER is a good example. It uses interior LILIES AND FRESHWATER kSH KEEPS THE signs, lights, and colors to create a spaces beneath it cool, and a screen welcoming environment favorable to of perforated brickwork provides the synergy inside the building. It was air voids in the facade, allowing for clever of the architects and designers A COOLER MICROCLIMATE AND kLTERED
sunlight. This setting contradicts the city and noisy expressway outside it and allows art enthusiasts to experience culture and history undisturbed. In recent years, we have observed how the green design process reQUIRES A HIGHLY INTEGRATED APPROACH that involves all members of the development team — the developer, project manager, architects, landscape architects, engineers, contractors, facilities managers, and others. Experience has shown that
this collaborative approach leads to solutions that might not have been possible in a traditional development process. No architect is alone in his WORK 4HE DESIGNS HE CREATES BENEkT or harm end users. I remind the architects I work with to keep in mind the BENEkCIARIES OF OUR PROJECTS HELPING them realize that we do not inherit the earth from our ancestors — we borrow it from our children. Let us continue designing spaces for all to enjoy now and in the future.
(% TOP QUESTION THAT ) RECEIVE from scientists is, “What should I do with my invention or discovery?� Professors, investigators, researchers and technologists are looking for ways to bring their knowledge into the public for awareness and utilization and to be rewarded for their work. Wernher von Braun, the father of modern rocket science, was faced WITH THE SAME QUESTION EVALUATING whether a career in academia, government or private industry would most suit his life, his mission and his talents. He decided to pursue a directorship at NASA as the chief architect of Saturn 5 under the Apollo program, then later went into private industry and SCIENTIkC ADVOCACY Here are various paths for a scientist to consider when making the important decision of where and how to contribute to the world: 1. Academia or research institution — This path offers recognition, research placed into the public domain, and the opportunity for humanitarian contribution and building up the next generation of scientists. It also offers the potential for status and awards. Some positions are more focused upon teaching future scientists and others are more publications-driven with a focus on originality, thoroughness and rigor in research. Funding is
HARVARD VERITAS
RIA PERSAD
pros and cons no matter the choice. ) HAVE BEEN ENGAGED IN ALL kVE SECtors at different points in my life and have enjoyed them all enormously, as decisions were made based upon what was most suitable at the time. Scientists are needed in all strata of society, and young scientists should pursue their passions with knowledge of the multiple avenues where their talents are in high demand.
Q PALAFOX FROM A5
Green
we do not murder, rob, covet our neighbor’s partners and goods. It is the reason that we do not claim rights over our own bodies if a distinct life in the womb is involved. Because of respect, we do not harm others because they do not worship as we do, nor do we mistreat them because of the color of their skin or the language they speak, or their distinct culture. Respect is what sets us apart from the rest of the animal kingdom. It is an achievement of the evolution of human consciousness that gave the pivotal concept of “human dignity� — the cornerstone OF ALL ETHICS ‡ SIGNIkCANCE AND MEANing. No, there is no way we can and should compromise on respect.
RANNIE?AQUINO CSU EDU PH RANNIE?AQUINO SANBEDA EDU PH RANNIE?AQUINO OUTLOOK COM
Using a broken pencil is pointless
O
N third telco: The Office of the Solicitor General has asked the Supreme Court to dismiss the PETITION QUESTIONING THE AWARDing of the third telecommunications player slot to Mislatel. Here we go again. Winners and losers of every project are always at loggerheads. And we end up as victims always. *** On provincial bus terminals: The MMDA has announced that it will close all bus terminals along the 24-kilometer stretch of EDSA by June. They said that the Metro Manila Council will prohibit the issuance of business permits to bus terminals along EDSA. I have been hearing this for years and my eardrums are getting faulty from being used as echo chambers. *** On obstacles to progress: I am still hoping that our country will rise up, hurdling obstacles brought about by endless bickering. It’s alarming that our republic is fast becoming a Hogwarts of sorts , teaching our children witchcraft and sorcery. It is now much like the Potter movie where every scene has become a political battlefield among Gryffindors and Slytherins. We are still at the mercy of greedy and morally corrupt Voldemorts who used their wicked magic wand to banish anything good left in our souls. Our voters are forced to drink magic potions to commit the same mistakes over and over again, keeping our land in the deadly hollows for the longest time. Let us kick those corrupt witches off their broomsticks, snap our countrymen out of ideological trances, wave the magic wand to free the Filipino spirit, and let it soar like a phoenix to make our country prosper once and for all. *** Fake news and news reports with a spin — what’s the difference? *** Yes, the heat is on. The water crisis can be likened to finding your leather jacket in the summer, while forgetting where you kept it during the rainy season. *** It is always easier to find out what is wrong than finding out what is correct. The worst thing to do is to look for something better if there is really nothing wrong in the first place. *** Depresso is the feeling you get when you run out of coffee. *** I suggest that broadcast networks should post this before AN INQUIRY g7ARNING THIS PROgram is not for children and the faint-hearted as it may contain disturbing sounds and images.� *** Recent world events have once again caused the increase of oil prices in the local market. The Department of Energy has observed the continuing decline of oil production by members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries
MIRRORLESS
ROLLY G. REYES (OPEC), as well as by countries outside of OPEC. Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi said: “The nation, along with the majority of the globe, is facing the realities of socio-political turmoil in oil-producing countries, which, sadly, results in lUCTUATIONS OF OIL PRICES ) CANnot stress enough that, as an oil importing country, our market is susceptible to these effects, and it is up to us as a nation how we handle this challenge.� Tips from the energy chief: “The retail prices and services per retail station are different. Our consumers must compare the prices and services and choose the retail station that provides the best products and services that suit their needs. “Everyone must be aware of their respective energy consumption habits and continue to observe an energy efficient lifestyle, whether we have fuel price increases or not.� *** Why elections fail: We have a silent majority that remains “too silent,� a young population that’s lazy to vote, and a poor sector that’s prone to vote buying. Sorry, but it’s the truth and the candidates know this so well. *** “Flash Gordon� has done it again. I’ve been watching the water crisis for weeks now, and ) WAS AMAZED AT THE QUICK STEPS taken by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). As of March 18, PRC has distributed 1,033,000 liters of clean and safe water to an estimated 43,000 individuals from Rizal Medical Center, Quirino Memorial Medical Center, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, East Avenue Medical Center, Mandaluyong City Medical Center, and National Center for Mental Health. PRC has also started to provide water in communities, including Brgy. Old Balara and Brgy. Culiat in Quezon City; Brgy. Highway Hills in Mandaluyong; and Brgy. Tumana and Brgy. Nangka in Marikina. Chairman Richard Gordon said PRC had earlier prioritized hospitals and medical institutions to ensure that medical services would not be interrupted. *** To Nat Geo, Discovery Channel and History Channel: Why don’t you stick to your original competencies that made you big? I want to know more about the Cossacks, Mt. Everest, the fall of the Roman Empire, artists and artisans of Florence, the Boxer Rebellion, fishing villages of Hokkaido, the Taj Mahal, the Tabon Caves of Palawan, and migratory instincts of animals. Enough of those fake reality shows. *** Good work, good deeds and good faith to all.
˜ The Manila Times
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Jones town in Isabela declared poll hotspot SANTIAGO CITY, Isabela: The Commission on Elections (ComeLEC HAS IDENTIkED THE VIOLENCE marred town of Jones in this PROVINCE AS AN ELECTION HOTSPOT and an area of concern in the May 13 midterm polls. )N PAST VOTING THERE HAD BEEN ELECTION RELATED VIOLENCE IN *ONES TOWN INCLUDING KILLINGS THE BURNING OF THE TOWN HALL AND BALLOT SNATCHING /N !PRIL *ONES 6ICE -AYOR 2ONALDO ,UCAS WAS SHOT AND KILLED BY SUSPECTED New People’s Army (NPA) rebels. 0OLICE INVESTIGATION REVEALED THAT THE REBELS HAD A CAMPAIGN AGREEMENT WITH ,UCAS WHICH THE LATTER VIOLATED ,UCAS WAS SHOT SHORTLY AFTER he was detained by the rebels. (E WAS SERVING THE REMAINING TERM OF THEN VICE MAYOR &LORANTE 2ASPADO WHO WAS KILLED IN THE TOWN HALL ON
!PRIL !LSO IN -AY UNIDENTIFIED ASSAILANTS AMBUSHED AND KILLED THREE OF THE SUPPORTERS of the town’s mayoral candidate. Police Capt. Frances LitTAUA )SABELA 0OLICE 0ROVINCIAL Office (IPPO) information OFFICER SAID *ONES TOWN WAS CLASSIFIED UNDER #ATEGORY 2ED AND WOULD BE UNDER #OMELEC control. /N &RIDAY THE )00/ SPEARHEADED THE SIGNING OF A COVENANT FOR THE PEACEFUL CONDUCT of the midterm elections in this town. ,OCAL CANDIDATES AND VOTERS PARTICIPATED IN THE ACTIVITY g4HE COVENANT SIGNING IS A commitment to obey election LAWS AND SHED THE IMAGE OF A VIOLENCE MARRED TOWN u #ATHOLIC PRIEST 3ATURNINO 4ALOSIG OF the Holy Rosary Parish said. LEANDER C. DOMINGO
Regions Duterte orders rearrest of suspect in teen’s slay THURSDAY March 28, 2019
BY CATHERINE S. VALENTE
P
RESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the rearrest of the suspect in the brutal murder of Cebu student Christine Lee Silawan, who was found mutilated and her face skinned off in Cebu early this month. )N HIS SPEECH DURING A CAMPAIGN RALLY IN +ORONADAL #ITY 3OUTH #OTABATO ON 4UESDAY EVENING $UTERTE SAID HE PERSONALLY CALLED THE ,APU ,APU #ITY PROSECUTOR who ordered the release of the YEAR OLD SUSPECT WHO WAS EARLIER REPORTED TO BE THE VICTIM S former boyfriend. g4HE ONE WHO KILLED #HRISTINE THEY RELEASED HIM UPON THE ORDERS OF THE PROSECUTOR ) CALLED THEM IMMEDIATELY THE FOLLOWING MORNING u
$UTERTE DISCLOSED “3ABI KO i-recall MO @YANG ANO mo ORDER ninyo of dismissal (I told them to recall their dismissal ORDER AND HAVE THE GUY REARRESTED u HE SAID /N &RIDAY THE ,APU ,APU #ITY 0ROSECUTOR S /FkCE ORDERED THE RELEASE OF THE TEENAGED SUSPECT FROM the Social Welfare department’s CUSTODY BECAUSE THE .ATIONAL "UREAU OF )NVESTIGATION .") ARRESTED HIM WITHOUT A WARRANT
$UTERTE HOWEVER INSISTED THAT THE ARREST COULD STILL BE CONSIDERED UNDER HOT PURSUIT OPERATIONS “(INDI AKO PAPAYAG NA GANUNIN MO LANG ANG TAO especially oppression. 0ATAYIN MO ANG BATA "ALATAN MO TAPOS MAGSIBAT KA LANG -AHULI KA after six days tapos ma-release KA KASI HINDI HOT PURSUIT ) WILL NOT ALLOW THAT YOU KILLED THAT VICTIM AND YOU WILL JUST BE RELEASED 9OU are arrested and then be released six DAYS LATER BECAUSE IT WAS NOT A HOT PURSUIT u THE 0RESIDENT SAID g&OR AS LONG AS THERE IS SOMEBODY WHO CONDUCTED AN INVESTIGATION AND MADE A FOLLOW UP EVERYDAY THAT IS STILL HOT PURSUIT TO ME Imposible ‘YANG SABIHIN MO NA hot PURSUIT HOURS LANG NGAYON (It’s IMPOSSIBLE THAT IT SHOULD ONLY LAST FOR HOURS u HE ADDED 4HE .") ON -ONDAY SAID IT
A7
WOULD kLE A MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION TO NULLIFY THE ORDER OF THE PROSECUTOR S OFkCE 3ILAWAN A STUDENT OF THE -ARIBAGO (IGH 3CHOOL WAS FOUND DEAD IN ,APU ,APU #ITY #EBU ON March 11. (ER BODY WAS MUTILATED AND HER FACE SKINNED PEELED OFF 4HE SUSPECT WAS ARRESTED BASED ON SURVEILLANCE CLIPS LINKING HIM to the crime and a search warrant ON HIS ELECTRONIC DEVICES ACCORDING TO .") #ENTRAL 6ISAYAS $IRECtor Tomas Enrile. %ARLIER THE 0RESIDENT SAID 3ILAWAN WAS PROBABLY KILLED BY SOMEONE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ILLEGAL DRUGS NOT BY A CULT AS SOME PEOPLE SUSPECTED BECAUSE OF HOW THE VICTIM WAS SKINNED AND HOW HER INTERNAL ORGANS WERE TAKEN OUT
Marinduque declared free of insurgency CAMP EFIGENIO Navarro, Calapan City: Top officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Gov. Romulo Bacorro declared Marinduque insurgency-free in a ceremony at the provincial capitol in Boac on Tuesday. The declaration was announced after a Memorandum of Understanding on the Stable Internal Peace and Security of the Province of Marinduque was signed by the AFP, PNP and the provincial government, a milestone in Region 4 or Mimaropa. Mimaropa is composed of the provinces of Mindoro Oriental, Mindoro Occidental, Marinduque,
SPRAYING TECHNIQUE Vector-borne unit staff of the Department of Health Calabarzon supervises participants on proper spraying techniques during an actual demonstration of outdoor residual spraying on walls under the four-day training of sanitary inspectors held outside the Lima Park Hotel in Malvar, Batangas from March 26 to 29, 2019. PNA PHOTO
Romblon and Palawan. According to Police Regional Office-Mimaropa Regional Director chief Supt. Tomas Apolinario, the declaration of Marinduque as insurgncy-free was initially recommended in July 2009 since no insurgent activity, violent or nonviolent, had been recorded in the province. After a series of validations conducted by different intelligence units, the province was finally declared insurgency-free. Marinduque is now the third province nationwide to be declared insurgencyfree by the AFP and PNP next to Cavite, declared in 2017, and Romblon, declared in February 2019. ROSELLE R. AQUINO
More than 2,000 loose guns recovered in Maguindanao CAMP SIONGCO, Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao: ! TOTAL OF UNLICENSED kREARMS WERE RECOVERED IN -AGUINDANAO BY THE TH )NFANTRY +AMPILAN $IVISION TH )$ A MILITARY OFkCIAL SAID ON 7EDNESDAY -AJ !RVIN %NCINAS TH )$ SPOKESMAN SAID THIS WAS IN ADDITION TO THE ASSORTED HIGH POWERED LOOSE GUNS HANDED OVER TO THE RD )NFANTRY "RIGADE RD )" THROUGH THE TH )NFANTRY "ATTALION TH )" IN A CEREMONY AT THE 4ALAYAN -UNICIPAL (ALL ON 4UESDAY %NCINAS ADDED THAT THE TURNOVER OF THE kREARMS HAPPENED DURING THE EIGHTH REGULAR MEETING OF THE +APAMAGAYON )NTER !GENCY
4ASK &ORCE +)!4& AN ad hoc ORGANIZATION COMPOSED OF THE SIX MUNICIPALITIES OF +ABUNTALAN $ATU /DIN 3INSUAT $ATU !NGGAL -IDTIMBANG 4ALAYAN 4ALITAY AND 'UINDULUNGAN AND THE RD )" WITH THE TH )" AND TH 3PECIAL &ORCES "ATTALION 4HE +)!4& WAS ACTIVATED ON *UNE AS ONE OF THE INITIATIVES AND ADVOCACIES OF THE RD )" AND LOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVES %NCINAS SAID A MEETING WAS ALSO HELD TO DISCUSS SECURITY UPDATES criminality and preparations for the midterm elections on May 13. 4ALAYAN -AYOR $ATU 4UNGKANG -IDTIMBANG HOSTED THE EVENT AND ENCOURAGED THE LOCAL OFkCIALS TO
CONTINUE STRENGTHENING THEIR ADVOCACIES AS +)!4& MEMBERS AND TO PURSUE COMMON OBJECTIVES !T THE EVENT #OL 7ILBUR -AMAWAG RD )" COMMANDER TOOK HIS OATH AS THE NEW +)!4& co-chairman. g&ROM NOW ON THE MESSAGE MUST BE SPREAD AND THE COMMITMENT MUST BE TRANSLATED INTO ACTION TO ENSURE PEACE AND SECURITY IN THE COMMUNITY AND WE WILL WORK AS A TEAM u -AMAWAG SAID !S A SIGN OF THAT COMMITMENT THE +)!4& PRESENTED THE ASSORTED kREARMS FROM THE MUNICIPALITIES OF $ATU !NGGAL -IDTIMBANG 'UINDULUNGAN 4ALAYAN AND 4ALITAY (ANDED OVER WERE TWO GRE-
NADE LAUNCHERS SIX - GRENADE LAUNCHERS kVE GAUGE SHOTGUNS ONE 5ZI TWO CALIBER PISTOLS SEVEN CALIBER PISTOLS TWO CALIBER PISTOLS ONE - SNIPER RIlE AND TWO +' S g4HE HANDOVER OF kREARMS IS A CONTINUING CAMPAIGN AGAINST THE PROLIFERATION OF LOOSE kREARMS IN THE AREA OF THE RD )NFANTRY "RIGADE u ,T #OL #RIZANTO &ERNANDEZ TH )" COMMANDING OFkCER SAID -AJ 'EN #IRILITO 3OBEJANA TH )$ COMMANDER EXPRESSED HIS GRATITUDE TO THE +)!4& PARTICULARLY TO THE LOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVES FOR EXTENDING THEIR SUPPORT TO THE TH )$ S CAMPAIGN AGAINST LOOSE kREARMS JULMUNIR I. JANNARAL
Palace sustains suspension of mayor, vice mayor BANGUED, Abra: MalacañANG HAS SUSTAINED THE SIX MONTH SUSPENSION OF ,AGAYAN TOWN -AYOR *ENDRICKS ,UNA AND HIS WIFE 6ICE Mayor Joy Chrisma for dishonESTY AND GRAVE MISCONDUCT IN CONNECTION WITH AN UNkNISHED ROAD PROJECT WORTH OVER A MILlion pesos. 0RESIDENT 2ODRIGO $UTERTE THROUGH %XECUTIVE 3ECRETARY 3ALVADOR -EDIALDEA UPHELD the Abra 3ANGUNNIANG 0ANLALAWIGAN S 30 RULING AGAINST THE ,UNAS SAYING g4HE NATURE OF THE CASES INVOLVES CORRUPTION AND ILLEGAL DISBURSEMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS )T IS EVEN ALLEGED THAT AFTER 2EGIONAL $IRECTOR -ARIO )RINGAN $Epartment of the Interior and ,OCAL 'OVERNMENT #ORDILLERA !DMINISTRATIVE 2EGION ISSUED
THE ORDER STAYING THE EXECUTION OF THE 30 S DECISION APPELLANT -AYOR *ENDRICKS ,UNA WITHOUT AUTHORITY WITHDREW MILLIONS OF PESOS FROM THE BANK ACCOUNT OF THE MUNICIPALITY WITH THE ,AND "ANK OF THE 0HILIPPINES u g#ONSIDERING THE SERIOUSNESS OF THESE ALLEGATIONS ALLOWING THE STATUS QUO TO CONTINUE MAY RESULT IN THE DISSIPATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY S PUBLIC FUNDS SHOULD THE ACCUSATIONS AGAINST THE APPELLANTS BE PROVEN u THE President added. 4HE ,UNAS WERE SUSPENDED BY !BRA 6ICE 'OV 2ONALD "ALAO AS WITH EIGHT OF THE NINE MEMBER !BRA 0ROVINCIAL "OARD IN A RULING ON $EC FINDING THEM GUILTY OF DISHONESTY AND GRAVE MISCONDUCT IN CONNECTION WITH THE SUPPOSEDLY UNkNISHED
METER "AI .AGBA 2OAD IN "ARANGAY "A I ,AGAYAN WORTH 0 THAT THEY REPORTEDLY concreted. /N !UGUST LAST YEAR ,AGAYan 3ANGUNIANG "AYAN member .OEL #ORTEZ COMPLAINED THAT THE ROAD PROJECT FUNDED BY ,AGAYAN S )NTERNAL 2EVENUE !LLOTMENT HAD REMAINED gA PEBBLE AND DIRT ROAD u -AYOR ,UNA IN RESPONSE TO THE ORDER PETITIONED THE /FkCE OF THE 0RESIDENT TO STAY THE SUSPENSION CITING !DMINISTRATIVE /RDER !/ 3ERIES OF BY 0RESIDENT "ENIGNO !QUINO RD GIVING AN APPELLANT TO THE /FkCE OF THE 0RESIDENT DAYS TO STAY A PENDING kNAL DECISION !/ THUS EMBOLDENED ,UNA TO STAY IN HIS POST !LSO ON &EB )RINGAN
ISSUED A STAY ORDER AGAINST THE !BRA 30 ORDER OF SUSPENSION "UT THE 0RESIDENT RULED ON -ARCH TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION OF THE EXIGENCY OF THE SITUATION INVOLVING PUBLIC FUNDS gTO ;RESUME= THE SUSPENSION ALREADY IMPOSED AND BEING SERVED BY THE ;,UNAS= BEFORE THE same was stayed by the Department of the Interior and Local 'OVERNMENT 4HE PROHIBITION AGAINST SUSpensions within the election PERIOD COULD NOT APPLY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION WAS ISSUED PRIOR TO THE POLL PERIOD $UTERTE SAID WHILE DIRECTING THE IMMEDIATE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SUSPENsion order. %FFORTS TO REACH THE ,UNAS REMAINED FUTILE AS OF THIS kLING THOM F. PICANA
FMR in Sarangani gets P57M allocation !"/54 0 MILLION HAS BEEN ALLOCATED FOR THE OPENING OF THE +ANALO .OMOH FARM TO MARKET road (FMR) in Maasim town in 3ARANGANI PROVINCE 'OV 3TEVE #HIONGBIAN 3OLON SAID THIS WAS PART OF THE 0 BILLION FUNDED INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN 3ARANGANI UNDER THE 0HILIPPINE 2URAL $EVELOPMENT 0ROGRAM 02$0 /F THIS AMOUNT AROUND PERCENT OR 0 BILLION WAS SPENT FOR ROAD DEVELOPMENT PARTICULARLY CONCRETING OF &-2S IN 3ARANGANI 3OLON SAID OPENING OF &-2S WOULD HELP IMPROVE THE MARKETING OF FARMERS PRODUCTS AND PROMOTE AGRICULTURE POTENTIALS IN THE AREA (E ADDED THAT THE OPENING AND CONCRETING OF 3ARANGANI ROADS STARTED IN AND THE CONCRETING OF PERCENT OF THE TOTAL KILOMETERS OF PROVINCIAL ROADS HAD ALREADY STARTED WITH ABOUT PERCENT kNISHED 3OLON SAID 3ARANGANI S INVESTMENT PLAN FROM TO PRIORITIZED gMAJOR CORE ROADS THAT PROVIDE STRONG LINKAGES AND CONNECTIVITY TO THE EXISTING AND POTENTIAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE PROVINCE SUCH AS AGRICULTURE TOURISM kSHERY SERVICES TRADE AND INDUSTRY u 5NDER THE PLAN IT IS PROJECTED
THAT BY THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT WOULD HAVE ACCOMPLISHED PERCENT OF ROAD CONCRETING &UNDS FOR 3ARANGANI S INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS WERE MOSTLY SOURCED FROM the Department of the Interior and ,OCAL 'OVERNMENT S +ALSADA 0ROGRAM AND #ONDITIONAL -ATCHING 'RANT TO 0ROVINCES 0ROGRAM THE $EPARTMENT OF !GRICULTURE S &OOD 3ECURITY 0ROGRAM 02$0 AND THE $EPARTMENT OF (EALTH S Health Facilities Enhancement ProGRAM WITH CORRESPONDING COUNTERPART FUNDS FROM THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT S !NNUAL )NVESTMENT 0ROGRAM 3ARANGANI HAS CONSTRUCTED A TOTAL OF FARM TO MARKET AND PROVINCIAL ROADS AND FOUR BRIDGES 3OME OF THEM ARE STILL IN PROGRESS WITH A TOTAL OF 0 MILLION IMPLEMENTED IN 0 MILLION IN 0 MILLION IN AND 0 MILLION IN /THER INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IMPLEMENTED WERE HOSPITALS AND one early childhood care center at a COST OF 0 MILLION /NGOING ARE THE CONSTRUCTION OF WATER SYSTEMS lOOD AND RIVER CONTROL PROJECTS MULTIPURPOSE HALL AND THE 3ARANGANI 3PORTS #OMPLEX INSIDE THE CAPITOL COMPOUND WITH A 0 MILLION FUND JERRY N. ADLAW
News Poe tops Church senatorial survey A8
˜ The Manila Times
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
BY CATHERINE A. MODESTO
R
EELECTIONIST Sen. Mary Grace Poe is the top choice of lay Catholics, according to a survey of Church-run Radio Veritas.
!SIDE FROM 0OE #ATHOLIC VOT- g3ONNYu !NGARA 3EN #YNTHIA ERS ALSO CHOSE 3EN *UAN %DGARDO 6ILLAR 0ILAR g0IAu #AYETANO $R
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7ILLIE /NG 2ONALD g"ATOu DELA 2OSA 3EN -ARIA ,OURDES .ANCY "INAY 3EN 0AOLO "ENIGNO g"AMu !QUINO TH #HRISTOPHER ,AWRENCE g"ONGu 'O .ERI #OLMENARES !QUILINO g+OKOu 0IMENTEL RD AND &RANCIS 4OLENTINO #OLMENARES AND !QUINO ARE THE ONLY OPPOSITION CANDIDATES CHOSEN
BY THE RESPONDENTS 2ADYO 6ERITAS ASKED THE RESPONDENTS FROM ARCHDIOCESES AND DIOCESES FROM &EBRUARY TO -ARCH THIS YEAR WHO THEY WOULD VOTE FOR THE 3ENATE 4HE SURVEY HAD A PERCENT MARGIN OF ERROR #LIFFORD 3ORITA CHIEF STRATEGY OFkCER OF 2ADIO 6ERITAS SAID THE
SURVEY WAS CONDUCTED FACE TO FACE 4HOSE POLLED WERE AGED TO )N EARLY -ARCH LAY LEADERS FROM INTERFAITH BASED GROUP 0EOPLE S #HOICE -OVEMENT ENDORSED 3ENATE ASPIRANTS EIGHT OF WHOM WERE FROM THE OPPOSITION 4HESE CANDIDATES WERE -AGDALO PARTY LIST 2EP 'ARY !LEJANO
!QUINO *OSE -ANUEL g#HELu $IOKNO CIVIC LEADER 3AMIRA 'UTOC FORMER SOLICITOR GENERAL &LORIN g0ILOu (ILBAY ELECTION LAWYER 2OMULO g2OMYu -ACALINTAL FORMER SENATOR -ANUEL g-ARu 2OXAS ND FORMER DEPUTY SPEAKER ,ORENZO g%RINu 4AÄADA #OLMENARES AND 0OE
‘StarStruck’ winner nabbed for hit-and-run Lacson lauds Aquino’s work on free college law 0/,)#% ARRESTED '-! .ETWORK TALENT SEARCH WINNER -IGO !DECER LATE 4UESDAY OVER A HIT AND RUN INCIDENT THAT INJURED TWO EMPLOYEES OF THE -ETROPOLITAN -ANILA $EVELOPMENT !UTHORITY --$! IN -AKATI #ITY !DECER g5LTIMATE -ALE 3URVIVORu OF g3TAR3TRUCKu SEASON IN AND WHOSE FULL NAME IS $OUGLAS %RROL $REYFUS !DECER WAS ARRESTED AT P M AFTER BEING CHASED BY POLICE OFFICERS 4HE SUSPECT WHO WAS DRIVING A WHITE 3UBARU "2 REPORTEDLY HIT --$! WORKERS 2OGELIO #ASTILLANO AND -ICHELLE 'ALLOVA 0APIN AND SPED OFF TO-
WARDS .ICALICENSE AND NOR 'ARATTEMPTED C I A 3 T R E E T T O F L E E WHERE POH I T T I N G A LICE CORP A T R O L NERED HIM CAR IN THE 4 H E PROCESS M M D A / F F I C E R S EMPLOYS O U G H T E E S W E R E B A C K U P BROUGHT TO FROM 0OLICE /SPITAL NG #OMMUNI-AKATI FOR TY 0RECINCT Q Douglas Errol Dreyfus Adecer TREATMENT 0 # 0 ! P O L I C E PHOTO BY MAKATI CITY POLICE AND ITS 4ACREPORT SAID TICAL -O!DECER BELIEVED TO BE DRUNK TORCYCLE 2IDING 5NIT LEADING REFUSED TO SURRENDER HIS DRIVER S TO THE SUSPECT S ARREST (E WAS
BROUGHT TO 0#0 FOR DOCUMENTATION AND BOOKING !DECER WAS TAKEN TO THE /SPITAL NG -AKATI FOR MEDICAL INQUEST 4HE CASE WOULD BE REFERRED TO THE 6EHICULAR 4RAFFIC )NVESTIGATION 5NIT FOR INVESTIGATION AND PROPER DISPOSITION POLICE SAID (E IS DETAINED AT THE -AKATI #ENTRAL 0OLICE 3TATION DETENTION FACILITY WHERE HE FACES CHARGES OF RECKLESS IMPRUDENCE RESULTING IN PHYSICAL INJURIES D A M A G E T O P R O P E R T I E S A N D DISOBEDIENCE TO A PERSON IN AUTHORITY NEIL JAYSON N. SERVALLOS
3%. 0ANkLO g0INGu ,ACSON ON 7EDNESDAY LAUDED 3EN 0AOLO "ENIGNO g"AMu !QUINO TH FOR WORKING HARD TO MAKE THE &REE #OLLEGE ,AW A REALITY g+APAG NAPAPAG USAPAN ANG LIBRENG MATRIKULA SA KOLEHIYO ANG UNANG NAIISIP KO SI 3EN "AM !QUINO !LAM KONG SIYA ANG NAGTIYAGANG ITULAK ITO SA 3ENADO BILANG ;CO =AUTHOR AT PRINCIPAL SPONSOR NG &REE 4UITION ,AW )F WE SPEAK ABOUT FREE TUITION IN COLLEGE THE kRST THAT COMES TO MY MIND IS 3EN !QUINO WHO PERSEVERED IN THE 3ENATE AS ;CO =AUTHOR AND PRINCIPAL SPONSOR OF THE &REE 4UITION ,AW u ,ACSON SAID (E SAID !QUINO WORKED HARD FOR THE PASSAGE OF THE LAW AS ITS CO AUTHOR AND PRINCIPAL SPONSOR DEFENDING IT FROM THE SCRUTINY OF HIS FELLOW LAWMAKERS !QUINO SAID THE &REE #OLLEGE ,AW GIVES &ILIPINOS ESPECIALLY THE POOR AN OPPORTUNITY TO OBTAIN A BETTER LIFE THROUGH EDUCATION g!NG LIBRENG KOLEHIYO AY ISANG DAAN PARA MAGKAROON NG MAGANDANG BUHAY AT UMANGAT ANG KALAGAYAN NG ATING MGA KABABAYAN LALO NA ANG MAHIHIRAP &REE COLLEGE IS ONE WAY TO HAVE A BETTER LIFE AND UPLIFT THE
PLIGHT OF OUR COUNTRYMEN ESPECIALLY THE POOR u SAID !QUINO WHO WORKED FOR THE LAW S PASSAGE DURING HIS TIME AS CHAIRMAN OF THE #OMMITTEE ON %DUCATION IN THE TH #ONGRESS 4HE SENATOR SAID HE PUSHED FOR THE PASSAGE OF THE &REE #OLLEGE ,AW AFTER MEETING WITH PARENTS WHO COULD NOT AFFORD TO SEND THEIR CHILDREN TO SCHOOL g-ARAMING NANAY LALO NA IYONG MGA NAKASAMA KO SA MGA +ONSULTAHANG "AYAN NA NAIS MAPAGTAPOS SA KOLEHIYO ANG KANILANG MGA ANAK NGUNIT KAPOS SA PERA !NG TANONG NILA SA AKIN ANO PO ANG INYONG MAGAGAWA PARA KAMI Y MATULUNGAN -ANY MOTHERS ESPECIALLY THOSE WHOM ) MET DURING +ONSULTAHANG "AYAN WHO WISHED TO SEND THEIR CHILDREN TO COLLEGE BUT THEY WERE kNANCIALLY UNABLE u !QUINO SAID g+AYA HININGI NATIN ANG CHAIRMANSHIP OF THE #OMMITTEE ON %DUCATION AT PINURSIGE ANG BATAS SA LIBRENG KOLEHIYO PARA SA KANILANG KAPAKANAN .GAYON KAHIT KAPOS MAKAPAGTATAPOS 4HIS IS THE REASON WHY WE SOUGHT THE CHAIRMANSHIP OF THE #OMMITTEE ON %DUCATION AND PUSHED THE LAW ON FREE COLLEGE FOR THEIR SAKE .OW EVEN THE POOR CAN kNISH COLLEGE u HE POINTED OUT JAVIER JOE ISMAEL
Q OFFICIALS FROM A1
CERNED‡TO SUBMIT A REPORT BY !PRIL AND ) WILL DECIDE BEFORE !PRIL u HE SAID
Duterte GRANTS TO BENEkCIARIES IN +ORONADAL #ITY 3OUTH #OTABATO $UTERTE SAID HE WAS WAITING FOR REPORTS OF CERTAIN OFkCIALS BEFORE DECIDING ON THEIR FATE g,ESSEN ANG CORRUPTION ) WANT TO LESSEN THE CORRUPTION BUT ) WILL FIRE MORE NEXT WEEK (INIHINTAY KO LANG @YUNG REPORT NILA ) M JUST WAITING FOR THEIR REPORT u THE 0RESIDENT SAID g"UT SABI KO NA ) SAID @9OU GIVE ME YOUR REPORT AND IF ) kND IT JUSTIkABLE YOU CAN STAY 0ERO KUNG MAY CORRUPTION "UT IF THERE IS CORRUPTION ) M SORRY u HE ADDED 4HE 0RESIDENT DID NOT NAME THE THE OFFICIALS ALTHOUGH HE RECENTLY ISSUED SUCH WARNING TO OFkCIALS OF THE -ETROPOLITAN 7ATERWORKS AND 3EWERAGE 3YSTEM -733 OVER THEIR FAILURE TO PREVENT A WATER CRISIS IN PARTS OF -ETRO -ANILA AND 2IZAL PROVINCE ,AST WEEK $UTERTE REQUIRED THE -733 OFkCIALS TO SUBMIT A REPORT ON THE WATER SHORTAGE IN -ETRO -ANILA AND NEARBY AREAS THEN HE WOULD gDECIDE WHETHER HEADS WILL ROLL OR WHETHER THE CONTRACTS OF THE CONCESSIONAIRES WILL BE TERMINATED u g) WILL NOT MAKE A PREJUDGMENT ) ASKED THEM ‡ EVERYBODY CON-
More than 30 execs dismissed )N 4UESDAY S REMARKS $UTERTE SAID HE WAS TRYING HIS BEST TO CURB CORRUPTION IN GOVERNMENT CITING THE ONGOING PURGE OF ERRING PUBLIC SERVANTS g) WILL TRY MY VERY BEST GIVE IT THE BEST SHOT NA KAYA KO TO BRING DOWN CORRUPTION u THE 0RESIDENT SAID g) TRIED MAYBE THE kNAL JUDGMENT WOULD COME YEARS AFTER WHETHER ) WAS ABLE TO DO EVEN HALF OF THE EFFORT u HE ADDED $UTERTE HAS BEEN TRYING TO FULkLL HIS CAMPAIGN PROMISE TO CLEAN THE GOVERNMENT AS HE HAS ALREADY DISMISSED MORE THAN ALLEGED CORRUPT OFkCIALS SINCE HE CAME TO POWER IN *UNE 4HE 0RESIDENT HAD DECRIED CORRUPTION AND RED TAPE IN GOVERNMENT SAYING THE PROBLEM COULD PAVE WAY FOR A gFAILED GOVERNMENT u 4HE LATEST TO LEAVE AMONG HIS APPOINTEES WAS 0HILIPPINE #HARITY 3WEEPSTAKES /FkCE 'ENERAL -ANAGER !LEXANDER "ALUTAN 4HE 0ALACE INITIALLY SAID HE WAS kRED gDUE TO SERIOUS ALLEGATIONS OF CORRUPTION u BUT LATER BACKTRACKED SAYING HE RESIGNED
Q GOVERNANCE FROM A1 TO kNISH OFF DRUG TRAFkCKERS AND
Passing CRIME AND CORRUPTION FOR THE REMAINDER OF HIS TERM g,ET ME JUST STATE TO YOU BAKA HINDI NA AKO MAGTAGAL ) MIGHT NOT LIVE LONG "UT IT S VERY IMPORTANT THAT ) CONVEY TO YOU THE TWO MOST IMPORTANT THINGS THAT ) THINK THE COUNTRY SHOULD HAVE .ANDIYAN TALAGA KUPKOP NIYA SA DALAWANG KAMAY /NE IS FOR ONE TO USE HIS TWO HANDS AS A CRADLE FOR HOLDING THE PEOPLE TOGETHER u HE SAID g%VEN IF YOU GIVE A 0RESIDENT YOU CAN AMEND THE #ONSTITUTION A TERM OF kVE EVEN SEVEN TERMS SIX YEARS EACH YOU WOULD STILL HAVE NO PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT ;FOR &ILIPINOS= u THE 0RESIDENT ADDED (E RECOGNIZED THAT THE DRUG PROBLEM REMAINED THE gBIGGEST THREATu TO THE NATION g) THINK ;WE ARE= BEING SWALLOWED BY THE BIGGEST THREAT OF THEM ALL AND THAT IS THE DRUG PROBLEM WHICH IS WORLDWIDE u $UTERTE SAID RENEWING HIS THREAT
THEIR COHORTS g$O NOT DESTROY THE YOUNG AND FEED THEM WITH DRUGS TO NO END BECAUSE ) WILL REALLY KILL YOU u HE ADDED $UTERTE ROSE TO POWER IN RIDING ON A CAMPAIGN TO RID THE COUNTRY OF ILLEGAL DRUGS AND CORRUPTION (IS DRUG WAR HAS DRAWN WIDE CRITICISM OVER ALLEGED SUMMARY KILLINGS AND FAILURE TO NET MAJOR TRAFkCKERS )N HIS 4UESDAY SPEECH THE 0RESIDENT REITERATED THAT HE WAS READY TO DIE FOR THE COUNTRY g) RETIRE THREE YEARS FROM NOW ) WOULD HIT PAY DIRT (INDI NA AKO MAKATAKBO RETIRED NA AKO ) CAN T RUN ANYMORE ) LL BE RETIRED BY THEN -AYBE ) WILL BE ASSASSINATED RIGHT AFTER ALONG THE WAY OR MAYBE BIBIRAHIN AKO NIYAN ) WOULD BE RUBBED OUT 7ELL THAT IS ALWAYS THE DANGER u $UTERTE SAID g"UT TO ME DEATH IS ALWAYS THERE )T STARES AT ME EYEBALL TO EYEBALL ) GO WHEREVER ) WANT AT KUNG MAABUTAN UNTIL DEATH CATCHES UP WITH ME 0ERO TALAGANG UUNAHIN KO KAYO "UT ) WILL HIT YOU kRST u HE ADDED CATHERINE S. VALENTE
ASIAN STOCKS: V S h a n g h a i 0 . 8 5 %
W S i n g a p o re 0 . 0 6 %
PSEi 7,861.05 DOWN 0.58%
P52.61 TO $1
www.manilatimes.net W To k yo 0 . 2 3 %
W Jakarta 0.39%
ERC URGED TO FURTHER CUT FIT-ALL
ÂťBusinessB2
PALAY FARMGATE PRICE STILL FALLING
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BY MAYVELIN U. CARABALLO
GT CAPITAL PROFIT DOWN 9% TO P13.7B
M
ONETARY policy easing and continued imports growth could lead to the peso closing weaker against the dollar by yearend, ANZ Research said.
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BDO PLANS TO RAISE P5B FROM LTNCDS
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KOREAN AIR CHIEF FORCED OFF BOARD BY SHAREHOLDERS Foreign BusinessB4
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CATHAY PACIFIC TO BUY BUDGET CARRIER FOR $628M Foreign BusinessB4
V H o n g Ko n g 0 . 1 5 %
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W B a n g ko k 0 . 1 8 %
Peso seen weakening to P53:$1 by yearend
What’s inside
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W Seoul 0.15%
MANAGEMENT ACTION
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THURSDAY MARCH 28, 2019
Business Times
CURRENCY RATE
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“We expect the Philippine peso to weaken to 53 [to the dollar] by end 2019,� it said in a report on Wednesday. 4HE RESEARCH kRM S LATEST EXCHANGE rate forecast is a downgrade from the previous P52:$1 outlook. In particular, ANZ Research warned that expectations of interest rate and reserve requirement ratio (RRR) cuts “will undermine the local currency.� “Policy easing is supportive for
growth, but this also increases the risk OF STOKING INlATION u IT NOTED !FTER kVE CONSECUTIVE RATE HIKES IN TO ADDRESS ABOVE TARGET INlATION THE "ANGko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) policymaking Monetary Board has since kept key interest rates unchanged and is widely expected to begin relaxing policy as early as May. g! MORE BENIGN INlATION OUTLOOK will allow the BSP to ease the overnight reverse repurchase rate (RRP) to
counter recent tightening in monetary conditions while providing some support to growth,� ANZ Research said. It expects a 25-basis points (bps) rate cut to be ordered during a May 9 policy meeting, to be followed by two more 25-bps cuts that would bring the RRP to 4.00 percent by the end of 2019 from 4.75 percent. 4HE RESEARCH kRM ALSO SAID THE "30 could quicken the pace of reducing banks’ RRR by as much as 400bps over the next four quarters. The RRR is the proportion of deposits that banks need to keep with the Bangko Sentral against the sum they can loan out to borrowers. Currently at 18 percent following two cuts last year, it is still considered as one
of the highest in the region. There is also a risk that import growth will stay strong and delay the correction in the country’s external imbalance, ANZ Research continued. “These ultimately will result in further Philippine peso weakness,� it added. Latest available data showed that imports were up 5.8 percent to $9.03 billion in January, resulting in a trade gap of $3.76 billion. A wider trade gap last year dragged THE COUNTRY S CURRENT ACCOUNT DEkCIT TO an all-time high of $7.9 billion. The currency ended 2018 at P52.58 versus the greenback, down sharply from its 2017 close of P49.93:$1. It closed 17 centavos weaker at P52.61 to the dollar on Wednesday.
PSEi drops to 7,800, Tall hurdles as Europe looks to close ranks on China profit-taking blamed THE stock market pulled back to the 7,800 level on Wednesday as INVESTORS TOOK PROkTS FOLLOWING the previous day’s gains. The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) dropped by 0.58 percent or 45.98 points to close at 7,861.05. The wider All Shares decreased by 0.51 perCENT OR POINTS TO kNISH AT 4,835.90. Timson Securities Inc. trader Jervin de Celis said the market retreated as investors cashed in following Tuesday’s slight rebound from Monday’s nearly 2-percent plunge. “Market players may also have [traded] in the absence of fresh catalysts to push back the index back above the 8,000 level,� he added. Eagle Equities Inc. research head
PARIS: Europe’s top leaders tried to project a united front when they met China’s Xi Jinping, but their desire to push back against Beijing COULD PROVE DIFkCULT TO PUT INTO practice, analysts say. Tuesday’s joint meeting in Paris between Xi and Emmanuel Macron, Angela Merkel and EU Commission president JeanClaude Juncker was an innovation of sorts. Xi usually prefers bilateral talks, but host Macron, a fervent pro-European, was intent on sending a message: that EU leaders were stronger together. Q French President Emmanuel Macron (2ndL) welcomes With Xi sat next EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker (L), to him at a press German Chancellor Angela Merkel (C) and Chinese conference, the President Xi Jinping (R) before a meeting at the Elysee
Christopher Mangun said the market would likely trade sideways UNTIL THE RELEASE OF -ARCH INlATION data next week. The PSEi’s dip came during a day of mixed results for Asian markets. Hong Kong rose 0.6 percent AND 3HANGHAI kNISHED PERCENT higher with Sydney adding 0.1 percent and Singapore up 0.4 percent. Mumbai rose 0.5 percent and Wellington surged 1.3 percent after the New Zealand central bank hinted at an interest rate cut. However, Tokyo and Seoul each slipped 0.2 percent, while Taipei and Bangkok also retreated. Regional advances were attributed to overnight gains
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Palace in Paris on March 26, 2019. AFP PHOTO
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MORE TO FOLLOW (MTF)
Filinvest Group profit grows 30% Another disappointment
EUNEY MARIE MATA-PEREZ
GOTIANUN-LED Filinvest Development Corp. (FDC) reported a 30-percent jump in 2018 net income, to P13.4 billion from P10.3 billion a year earlier, as gains from its property and POWER BUSINESSES OFFSET A PROkT drop from banking. Revenues increased by 8.4 percent to P73.3 billion from P67.6 billion, of which 43 percent was attributed to property, 41 percent to banking, 13 percent to power generation and 3 percent to the sugar business. On a stand-alone basis, Filinvest Land Inc. posted a 4-percent
A more powerful SEC R
EPUBLIC Act No. 11232 or the Revised Corporation Code (RCC) has expanded the role and increased the powers of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Senator Franklin Drilon, the main author of the law, said during the very well-attended joint forum of the RCC, spearheaded by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), held on March 26, 2019, the RCC has four reform clusters: 1) set policies that will enhance the ease of doing business in the Philippines, 2) strengthened stockholder protection and institutionalized good governance, 3) institutionalized provisions that will instill corporate social responsibility and 4) strengthened the country’s policy and regulatory corporate framework. The reforms resulted in granting the SEC expanded powers. In his speech, however, Senator Drilon REMINDED THE 3%# NOT TO @STIlE business in the exercise of its expanded powers. SEC Chairman Emilio B. Aquino, who was also a speaker at the forum, assured the audience they will do what is right and bear in mind the lawmaker’s
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increase in net income, to P6.08 billion from P5.83 billion in 2017, as revenues rose by 10 percent to P22.21 billion. Rental revenues alone jumped by 27 percent to P5.61 billion from a year earlier. FDC Utilities Inc. meanwhile, contributed P2.1 billion, which was said to have been driven by higher energy sales from its 3x135megawatt Misamis power plant. EastWest Banking Corp. saw a 12-percent drop in profit to P4.5 billion from the P5.1 billion posted in 2017. The decline was blamed on higher interest costs
and lower trading bains. Revenues were flat at P25.5 billion from P25.7 billion a year earlier. In a statement, FDC President Josephine Gotianun-Yap expressed confidence that new business ventures would contribute to the kRM S BOTTOMLINE “The Filinvest group’s entry into airports, hospitality and logistic parks marks the start of a new phase for FDC, as we kick off our involvement in tourism and infrastructure,� she said. “This adds another layer of
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PPA accused of appropriating land THE Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is threatening TO kLE A CASE AGAINST THE 0HILIPPINE Ports Authority (PPA) over the latter’s appropriation of a North Harbor property. In a statement on Wednesday, the state-owned pension fund claimed the PPA had allocated the land for use as a squatter resettlement site without its knowledge and consent. It noted that the PPA executed a memorandum of understanding with the National Housing Authority (NHA), the City of Manila, International Container Terminal Services Inc. and Manila North Harbor Port Inc. covering a 5-hectare lot without indicating nor disclosing that the GSIS owned about 1.2 hectares. “GSIS supports the government’s social housing program
but it has to be done within the purview of the law. The property is registered under the name of the pension fund. PPA cannot commit a property that it does not own,� GSIS President and General Manager Jesus Clint Aranas said. In a letter to PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago, Aranas demanded that agency rescind, modify or revise the agreement to exclude the land owned by the pension fund. )F NOT RECTIkED THE '3)3 SAID IT WOULD BE CONSTRAINED TO kLE THE appropriate legal action to protect the interest of pension fund and its members. It noted that Santiago questioned the validity of the GSIS title but Aranas replied that the “PPA’s argument questioning the validity OF '3)3 S ORIGINAL CERTIkCATE OF TITLE is a collateral attack not allowed
by law.� 00! OFkCIALS WERE NOT IMMEDIately available for comment. Aranas claimed that the GSIS, from the very start, was made to understand that its property would not be included in the land committed by PPA for the resettlement of informal settlers along Isla Puting Bato and surrounding areas. He added that it had long been established that the 5-hectare land partly covered GSIS property. Furthermore, the GSIS said the property had been discussed repeatedly during interagency committee meetings where where the PPA, GSIS, the NHA and other government agencies sit as members/ “In fact, in one of said meetings, .(! CONkRMED THE OVERLAPPING OF the properties based on its ocular inspection,� it claimed. MAYVELIN U. CARABALLO
T
in the making
HE Department of Transportation (DoTr) has apparently run out of patience with the footdragging of the so-called NAIA Consortium, and set a deadline of April 30 for a deal to be reached for the rehabilitation of the country’s overworked and badly outdated main airport. While the government’s ambition is in some ways admirable and justified, there may be historic reasons for slowing the pace of development. The NAIA Consortium is an unusual grouping of several of the country’s conglomerates: AC Infrastructure Holdings; Aboitiz InfraCapital; Alliance Global Group; the Ramos-era relic Asia’s Emerging Dragon Corp.; Filinvest Development Corp.; JG SumMIT (OLDINGS AND -ETRO 0ACIkC Investments Corp. The strange bedfellows were given original proponent status by the government upon presenting a proposal to upgrade and operate NAIA, a 35-year, P350-billion deal that was later reduced to 15 years and P102 billion. An alternative proposal was made by the GMR-Megawide partnership for an 18-year concession with a price tag of P155.9 billion, but the DoTr favored the NAIA Consortium’s 15-year plan, since it was nearly P2 billion per year cheaper than the GMRMegawide offer. The DoTr’s frustration is understandable; presenting an unsolicited project proposal and asking for original proponent status should indicate readiness
ROUGH TRADE BEN KRITZ to do a deal. Why the consortium has been stalling has no logical explanation, unless it is the natural result of the grouping itself, which on its face looks like something that would be about as cooperatively productive as a box of scorpions. That the Manila International Airport is in serious need of renovation is obvious. It has been operating well beyond its design capacity for years, and while it MAY NOT OFkCIALLY BE THE WORST airport in the world any longer, it is not far enough above the bottom of the list to be worth mentioning, and it won’t even be able to hold on to being judged as merely mediocre for very long if something isn’t done about it. Even if the longer-term vision is to relegate the airport to a secondary role like Tokyo’s Haneda, Osaka International, or Taipei’s Songshan, the Manila airport is quickly approaching a point of uselessness. Luck and a rather incredible display of talent on the part of controllers and air crews have so far prevented a major disaster; time will not improve the odds, however. Given the current atmosphere, there is real reason to worry it
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Business Times
˜ The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
ERC urged to further cut FiT-All BY JORDEENE B. LAGARE
A
consumer group claimed the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) could have further lowered the feed-in tariff allowance (FiT-All) used to subsidize renewable energy developers to save power consumers from being overcharged. In a statement on Wednesday, Laban Konsyumer Inc. (LKI) said the FiT-All paid by all electricity consumers nationwide could be further decreased to P0.1875 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from the approved P0.2226 per kWh.
Earlier, the ERC said it had authorized the National Transmission Corp. (TransCo) to collect a FiT-All amounting to P0.2226 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for 2018. This translates to a P0.0337/ kWh reduction from the current
P0.2563/kWh. It would take effect in the next billing cycle from receipt of the decision, either in April or May. Although the ERC has yet to release the official copy of its decision, LKI commended the agency for transforming into a “pro consumer welfare regulatory body.� But the group did not comment as to whether or not the ERC authorized a refund of P0.0337 per kWh for the previous year and in the next since consumers had already paid the higher amount of P0.2563 per kWh in 2018 and in the first three months of 2019.
Prior to the ERC’s announcement, ,+) RECENTLY kLED A PETITION TO CLAIM a rollback to P0.1875 per kWh. LKI President Victorio Mario Dimagiba said the updated data submitted by TransCo showed that at the current rate of P0.2563 per kWh, the STATE RUN kRM gPRACTICALLY PAID THE RE developers their FiT-All under recovery by the end of 2018.� Dimagiba explained that the actual FiT differential balance is P122.7 million in December 2018, much lower than the actual FiT differential balance of P3.7 billion in May last year. “On a monthly basis, Transco paid the RE developers the sum of P504 million from June to
December 2018,� he said. Dimagiba argued that maintaining the current approved FiT-All rate of P0.2563 per kWh, it would show that TransCo would have been able to more than fully collect the remaining FiT All under recovery worth P122.7 million in one month.. He added that in the succeeding months, by using the approved FiT-All rate of P0.2563 per kWh, TransCo effectively over-collected P504 million a month from consumers from January to March this year. To prevent this, Dimagiba said that TransCo’s re-computed FiT-
ALL rate of P0.2471 per kWh should be thoroughly reevaluated and, in lieu thereof, the current approved rate of P0.2563 per kWh be further reduced by P0.0688 per kWh which is the calculated rate necessary to offset the state-led corporation’s P504 million over recovery, translating to a new rate of P0.1875 per kWh. “The reduced under recoveries is a good indicator of TransCo management of the FiT collection and payment to RE suppliers. However, the FiT-All rate must not overcharge the consumers, even at the reduced amount of Php 0.227/ kWh,� he said.
Necessity of govt Agriculture Palay farmgate price still falling relations (Part 2) deal inked MANAGEMENT I by PH, ACTION Hungary IRA PAULO THE Philippines has strengthened agricultural ties with Hungary to boost farm production by focusing on higher agricultural investment, particularly in farm mechanization. This came after a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on cooperation in agriculture was signed between the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Ministry of Agriculture of Hungary on Wednesday. The MoU, which was signed by Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel PiĂąol and Minister of Agriculture of Hungary Istvan Nagy, seeks to promote the two countries’ investment in agriculture, market access concerns and the proposed cooperation in the field of crop and livestock biotechnology research, food safety and agricultural mechanization. During the bilateral meeting, PiĂąol recognized Hungary’s advanced technologies for water purification. “They have a formula of ensuring that water can be absorbed greatly by the soil. It’s a pump they have invented. They have also shared with us the same problem they are suffering from right now, El Nino. Just like us they are also drafting solutions on how to combat such climate conditions,â€? PiĂąol told reporters. “I am happy that Hungary is also offering their technology on clean water,â€? he added. Nagy said Hungary’s modern farm technologies were some of the well-known practices worldwide which enable unpurified and unclean water to produce drinking quality water in large capacities. “We have developed technologies and techniques regarding irrigation as well as water management. We have highly progressed technology regarding water purification. We are more than happy to provide the Philippines and [its] government the technologies as well as the tools available,â€? Nagy said. Meanwhile, the Philippines’ has also expressed interest to further diversify its exports to Hungary by exporting high value coconut products, fishery products, fresh mango, fishmeal, copra meal and seaweeds-based animal feeds, carrageenan and abaca. Hungary, on the other hand, said it was planning to increase its export of poultry meat products to the Philippines. Furthermore, Nagy has invited PiĂąol to attend the Hungarian Agricultural and Food Industry Fair Exhibition on September 26 to 29 this year to introduce some of the Filipino products into the Hungarian public “so that the Hungarian market could also serve as a gate to the European market for the Philippines.â€? EIREENE JAIREE GOMEZ
THE average farmgate price of palay (unmilled rice) further dropped to P19.03 per kilo in the second week of March compared to week- and year-ago levels. In its weekly update on palay, rice and corn prices, the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA) said the latest quotation was 1.91 percent lower than the previous week’s P19.40 per kilo. Likewise, it was lower by 6.39 percent from P20.33 per kilo in the same period in 2018. On a weekly basis, PSA said the prices of well-milled and regular milled rice fell at the wholesale and retail trades. The average wholesale price of well-milled rice was at P40.79 per kilo, down 0.78 percent from the previous week’s P41.11 per kilo. Year-on-year (yoy), however, the price was up by 0.37 percent.
At the retail, the average price declined by 0.07 percent to P44.42 per kilo a week ago but was up by 2.40 percent yoy. For regular milled rice, the average wholesale price was P37.31 per kilo, down by 0.74-percent from the previous week’s P37.59 per kilo. Yoy, however, it climbed 0.67 percent. Its retail price also fell by 0.49 percent to P40.40 per kilo from P40.60 per kilo a week earlier but was up by 1.89 percent from P39.65 per kilo a year ago. Meanwhile, farmgate prices of yellow corngrain in the second week of March was up by 1.02 percent to P13.84 per kilo from P13.70 per kilo in the previous week. Yoy, it rose by one percent. The equivalent price for white corngrain was at P14.94 per kilo, nearly one percent higher from P14.80 per kilo a week earlier, but
was lower by 13.19 percent from the previous year’s P17.21 per kilo. During the second week of March, the wholesale price of yellow corngrain went down by 0.11 percent to P18.37 per kilo. It was also down by 7.60 percent from the previous year’s P19.88 per kilo. Its retail price of P23.99 per kilo was also down by 1.72 percent from P24.41 per kilo a week ago but was up by 1.57 percent from P23.62 per kilo a year earlier. For white corn grain, the average wholesale price was P21.38 per kilo, up 1.18 percent from a week earlier but was up by 4.96 percent from the previous year’s P20.37 per kilo. The average retail rice of white corn grain was P28.52 per kilo, up by 0.71 percent from P28.32 per kilo a week earlier but was down by 4.68 percent from year-ago’s P29.92 per kilo. EIREENE JAIREE GOMEZ
Q PROFIT FROM B1
diversity to our income mix while also complementing investments in the region.� FDC is a party to the NAIA Consortium seeking to rehabilitate the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
FDC shares ended down 2 centavos or 0.13 percent to P15.96 apiece on Tuesday amid a 0.58-percent drop for the benchmark Philippine Stock Exchange. ANGELICA BALLESTEROS
arose or is discovered subsequent to an election. The SEC may also impose sanctions on the board of directors or trustees who, with knowledge of the disqualikCATIONS FAILED TO REMOVE SUCH director or trustee. 1UALIkCATIONS DISQUALIkCATIONS of directors - The SEC may also imPOSE ADDITIONAL QUALIkCATIONS OR OTHER DISQUALIkCATIONS OF DIRECTORS in its promotion of good corporate governance or as a sanction in its administrative proceedings. Election of directors and trustees - The SEC has the power to call an election of directors and trustees in case no stockholders meeting is held for election of new directors and trustees, and no new date has been designated, or if the rescheduled election is likewise not held. In such cases, the SEC may, upon the application of a stockholder, member, director or trustee, and AFTER VERIkCATION OF THE UNJUSTIkED NON HOLDING OF THE ELECTION summarily order that an election be held. Power to prescribe forms – The SEC is empowered to prescribe the form and substance of the financial reporting required by the commission, reports on compensation, and other reports, including contents of minutes of meeting. Expansive investigative powers and powers to impose sanctions– The RCC has added an entire new section on offenses and penalties, and in relation thereto, the SEC is empowered to investigate an alleged violation of the RCC, rule, or regulation, issue subpoena and subpoena duces tecum, take testimony in any inquiry or investigation, perform other acts necessary to the proceedings or to the investigation, and of course, impose sanctions permitted under the RCC. These sanctions include the imposition of huge penalties, suspension or revocaTION OF CERTIkCATE OF INCORPORAtion, imposition of permanent DISQUALIkCATION FOR DIRECTORS AND OFkCERS AND CITING IN CONTEMPT any person who unjustifiably
fails or refuses to comply with any subpoena issued or lawful order. Power to issue cease and desist orders; contempt - Whenever the SEC has reasonable basis to believe that a person has violated, or is about to violate the RCC, a rule or regulation, it may issue cease and desist orders .It may also issue a cease and desist order ex parte to enjoin an act or practice which is fraudulent or can be reasonably expected TO CAUSE SIGNIkCANT IMMINENT and irreparable danger or injury to public safety or welfare. Aside from proceeding administratively against the guilty person, the SEC can also transmit evidence to the Department of Justice for preliminary investigation or criminal prosecution for any violation of the RCC, rule or regulation. The above enumeration is not exhaustive, but the bottom line is that the SEC has been granted more powers to regulate and impose sanctions on corporations, their stockholders, directors AND OFkCERS !LL OF THESE POWers are aimed at protecting not just minority shareholders, but also creditors and the public in general. However, as mentioned by Senator Drilon, such powers should be exercised with cauTION SO AS NOT TO STIlE BUSINESS Indeed, the SEC will be playing a very critical role in our country’s future business environment.
Filinvest Group Q MTF FROM B1
A more reminder. Chairman Aquino has conkRMED THAT NO CONSOLIDATED RULES will be issued; instead the SEC will ISSUE RULES ON SPECIkC TOPICS SUCH as rules on the one-person corporation (OPC), the use of electronic data message, as well as participation and voting through remote communication or in absentia of stockholders. So, what do the expanded powers of the SEC under the RCC include? Power to interpret the RCC The RCC has given the SEC room to interpret several major provisions of the RCC. For instance, WHILE THE 2## HAS DEkNED WHAT constitutes corporations vested with ‘public interest’, it provides that the SEC has the power to determine what ‘other corporations’ may be deemed to be engaged in businesses vested with public interest similar to those IDENTIkED IN THE 2## AFTER TAKing into account relevant factors which are germane to the objective and purpose of requiring the election of an independent director, such as the extent of minorITY OWNERSHIP TYPE OF kNANCIAL products or securities issued or offered to investors, public interest involved in the nature of business operations and other analogous factors. Also, the SEC can set the parameters when OPCs, for instance, are required to be ‘adequately kNANCED OR WHAT IS @IRREPARABLE injury’ for purposes of issuing cease and desist orders against fraudulent acts or violations of the RCC. Removal of directors - The RCC provides that the SEC shall, motu proprio (on its own) or upon VERIkED COMPLAINT AND AFTER DUE notice and hearing, order the removal of a director or trustee ELECTED DESPITE THE DISQUALIkCATION OR WHOSE DISQUALIkCATION
Euney Marie J. Mata-Perez is a CPA-Lawyer and the Managing Partner of Mata-Perez, Tamayo & Francisco (MTF Counsel). She is a corporate, M&A and tax lawyer and the president of the Asia-Oceana Tax Consultants Association. This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice where the facts and circumstances warrant. If you have any question or comment regarding this article, you may email the author at info@mtfcounsel. com or visit MTF website at www. mtfcounsel.com.
N the previous column on the importance of government relations, I discussed how practitioners are effectively advocates and educators, working with, not against government, on behalf of their clients. Today, I elaborate more on other key functions of the practice of government relations.
Government relations and public policy In many instances, the job title is indicated as ‘government relations and public policy’. In some cases, these roles are kept separate. In practice, the two concepts are joined as they complement each other. Although this will not be a complete description, think of public policy as something that would likely be the back-end actor--conducting research, compiling data, drafting statements and policy papers. They are all the government relations person--as your front-end actor--would need in dealing directly with stakeholders, legislators, regulatory bodies, opposition lobbyists, etc. The concepts are separated depending ON THE COMPANY S SIZE ,ARGER kRMS tend to have more workload for each job function, justifying the separation of the roles. In my experience however, the best system is for both roles to be in one person. The two roles are so synergistic in nature that for an effective government relations campaign to be successful, the policy person and the advocate should work as one, or at the very least, they should work very well together.
Raconteur of sorts
POZON
incredibly useful in formulating the right strategy in discussing and advocating the client’s position. Also, data made it so that the impact of policies and laws can be QUANTIkED AND THEREFORE USEFUL TO corporations in tactically dealing with government. In an article by Tom Guthrie, he mentioned that the use of data in government relations is expected to transform the function from a risk-mitigating ONE TO A PROkT GENERATING ONE 4HIS is because companies can now foresee risks and opportunities as well as changes in government and the people within.
Customer is king Lastly, and quite interestingly, the tech startups have shown that by getting your customers to love you, by changing the way people do things on a daily basis, the customers themselves become your advocates. Consider the suspension of Uber in 2017, which caused an uproar among drivers and passengers alike, all calling for the lifting of the suspension in the interest of the riding public. In a more glaring fashion, Uber in New York faced regulation that would cap the number of drivers on the road, a measure led by New York City Mayor de Blasio. In a somewhat cheeky move, Uber’s app had a “de Blasio’s Uber� feature alongside the usual other options, which indicated an empty map with no available cars or a wait time of around a half hour. It GAVE CUSTOMERS A kRST HAND LOOK into the future if the regulation HAD PASSED THOUGH IT kNALLY DID last year). Customers saw how the regulation will affect them, and they rallied against the measure on behalf of Uber, emphasizing that by getting your customers to love you, they also become your ambassadors in dealing with government. Government relations is a challenging work. It requires a multitude of skills and resources. But it is for those with passion for this line of work (myself included). )T IS DEkNITELY A WORTHWHILE ONE
For a government relations practitioner to be successful, he has to be able to communicate well. He has to communicate in a unique manner fit for those in power. Much like the public relations practitioners, those in government relations deal with people, and thereby need to be able to communicate as well as anticipate and interpret the potential outcomes of that discourse. Unlike public relations which often focuses on the general or consuming public or a sector of such, government relations relies on dealing closely with fewer inDIVIDUALS SPECIkCALLY THOSE WITH whom one will deal with depend- The author is the Founder and ing on the needs of the client or CEO of Caucus, Inc., a multithe industry. industry, multi-disciplinary manAGEMENT CONSULTANCY kRM (E Role of data graduated MBA (De La Salle University), Juris Doctor (Far The advancements of technology, Eastern University), and LLM the rise of social media and the ad- in International Commercial vantages of digitization enhance Law (University of Nottingham, the functions of a government United Kingdom). He also studrelations practitioner. The rule of ied Mandarin Chinese Language thumb is to never, ever, go to a and Culture in Fuzhou, China, meeting unprepared. The practitio- was a Chevening-HSBC UK Govner must conduct research on the ernment Scholar, a Confucius key persons he needs to meet, dis- Institute Scholar, an alumnus cuss with and eventually convince. of the US State Department’s Enter stage right, news articles, International Visitor Leadership archives and social media. These Program, and a Fellow of the Asia help in establishing which persons Global Institute - University of have positions on certain issues Hong Kong. The author may be and why. This information is emailed at iap@caucusinc.com.
Corporate News GT Capital profit down 9% to P13.7B
˜ The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
BY ANGELICA BALLESTEROS
G
T Capital Holdings Inc. reported on Wednesday that its core net income dipped to P13.7 billion last year on lower sales from its automotive business.
!T A BRIEkNG IN 4AGUIG #ITY '4 Capital President Carmelo Ma. Luz Bautista said the amount was a 9-percent drop from P15 billion in 2017. The Ty-led holding company’s consolidated net income hit P13.4 billion, 5.6 percent lower than P14.2 billion year-on-year. Revenues, meanwhile, fell by 10 percent to P215.8 billion from P239.8 billion.
Its banking arm Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co. (Metrobank) saw its net profit expand by 22 percent to P22 billion in 2018 from P18.2 billion a year earlier on the back of strong loan growth, This was complemented by margin expansion; higher service charges, fees and commissions; and manageable expense growth. Its loan portfolio increased by 10 percent to P1.4 trillion year-on-
BDO plans to raise P5B from LTNCDs LISTED BDO Unibank Inc. is planning to raise as much as P5 billion from the issuance of long-term negotiable certificates of deposit (LTNCDs). In a disclosure on Wednesday, the Sy-led banking giant said it had the option to upsize the P5-billion OFFER WHICH HAS A TERM OF kVE AND a-half years with indicative pricing of 5.125 percent to 5.50 percent. g4HE kNAL COUPON RATE WILL BE SET prior to or at the end of the offer period. Interest will be paid quarterly in arrears,� it added. The offer will run from March 27 until April 5, but the bank said it reserved the right to adjust the timing of the offer as needed. The issuance, it added, is part of “efforts to lengthen the maturity of its funding sources and support business expansion plans.� Deutsche Bank AG, Manila Branch is the sole lead arranger and selling agent. BDO and BDO Private
Bank are the other selling agents. BDO Capital and Investment Corp. IS THE BANK S kNANCIAL ADVISOR The P5-billion issuance followed the P8.2 billion worth of LTNCDs the lender issued last May. Banks sell instruments like LTNCDs to raise capital without having to sell shares. The bank is obliged to redeem the face value of THE CERTIkCATE UPON MATURITY AND PAY out periodic coupons or interest payments during the life of the deposit. The notes are similar to time deposits but have longer maturities and higher yields. They are negotiable and are insured with the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. up to P500,000 per depositor. LTNCDs are also tax-exempt on THE INTEREST INCOME FOR QUALIkED individuals or institutions if held FOR AT LEAST kVE YEARS "$/ SHARES ENDED lAT AT 0 each on Wednesday. MAYVELIN U. CARABALLO
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
year, while deposits inched up by 2 percent to P1.6 trillion as of endDecember. Insurance unit AXA Philippines’ net income rose by 25 percent to P3.1 billion last year from P2.5 billion in 2017, driven by a 10-percent increase in premiums. Infrastructure affiliate Metro Pacific Investments Corp. saw a 7-percent growth in its net income to P15.1 billion from P14.1 billion. This was due to its expanded investment in the power sector after acquiring an additional stake in Beacon Electric Asset Holdings Inc. in 2017. #ONTINUED TRAFkC GROWTH ON ALL domestic roads, steady volume growth across the portfolio and
INlATION LINKED TARIFF INCREASES AT Maynilad Water Services Inc. also CONTRIBUTED TO THE PROkT INCREASE Property units Federal Land Inc. and Property Company of Friends Inc. posted a combined net income of P2.4 billion, a 13-percent jump from P2.1 billion year-on-year. Their consolidated revenues stood at P23.8 billion last year, a 30-percent improvement from P18.2 billion in 2017, while their combined real estate sales also grew by 30 percent to P20.1 billion from P15.4 billion. Only automobile subsidiary Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. saw its net earnings decrease, declining by 40 percent to P8 billion in 2018 from P13.2 billion in 2017.
This drop, Bautista explained, was blamed on frontloading in 2017, HIGHER INlATION AND DAMPENED CONsumer spending last year, and the zeroed-out of its best-selling brand Vios, among other factors. Toyota’s consolidated revenues decreased to P159.2 billion last year, 14 percent lower than 2017’s P185.3 billion. The car distributor registered retail sales of 153,004 units in 2018, compared with 183,908 the year before, in line with the industry’s decline in total sales to 400,298 from 473,376.
Joint venture firm for auction business In a disclosure on Wednesday,
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GT Capital said it had signed an agreement with Japan Bike Auction Co. Ltd. (JBA Co. Ltd) to form a joint venture company called JBA Philippines, which will handle the operations of its new auction business. Under the deal, GT Capital will own 60 percent of the new firm, and JBA the rest. “Through JBA Philippines, GT Capital extends the value chain for its customers and complements the conglomerate’s Toyota and AXA businesses,� the holding company said. GT Capital shares shed 3.28 percent or P32.50 to finish at P959.50 each on Wednesday.
Branded units boost Century Pacific Food profit CENTURY Pacific Food Inc. saw its net income grow by 9 percent to P2.8 billion in 2018 on the back of strong sales from its branded products. In a filing on Wednesday, the listed food manufacturer said its marine, meat and milk brands contributed P29.8 billion or 75 percent of its full-year sales. The amount was a 20-percent improvement from the sales they generated in 2017, it added. The company’s original equipment manufacturer units contributed the remaining 25 percent or P9.9 billion in 2018, representing a 4-percent increase from the year-earlier figure.
Overall revenues rose by 15 percent to P39.7 billion last year, which reflected the “affordability and quality� of its products, Century Pacific Food Chief Finance Officer Oscar Pobre said. “Despite some headwinds last year in consumer sentiment due to inflation, demand for our products remained robust, exhibiting even faster than expected growth,� he added. According to him, the revenue boost could also be attributed to the firm’s improving product distribution and availability in provincial areas, especially in the Visayas and Mindanao. Earnings before interest, taxes and
depreciation (ebitda) rose by 14 percent to P4.5 billion last year. Century Pacific Food noting that the ebitda margins, despite being down by 10 basis points to 11.4 percent, were “fairly steady� amid high inflation and operating costs last year. “Our margins in 2018 remained flattish year-on-year, thanks to our diversified business, with softer input prices in certain parts of the portfolio offsetting pressure from other raw materials and packaging costs,� Pobre explained. “On operating expense, however, higher fuel prices and faster growth in fartherflung areas translated to increased freight
and logistics costs,� he said. For 2019, Century Pacific Food said it would continue to innovate and invest in brands, facilities and the supply chain to have better topline and bottomline results. Incorporated on Oct. 25, 2013, Century Pacific Food is a wholly owned subsidiary of Century Pacific Group Inc. Through its business segments, the company handles brands that include Century Tuna, 555, Blue Bay, Fresca, Lucky 7, Argentina, Swift and Birch Tree. Century Pacific Food shares lost 18 centavos or 1.13 percent to finish at P15.70 apiece on Wednesday. TYRONE C. PIAD
Businessinbriefs
0.85 percent to close at P58 each on Wednesday.
AUB NET INCOME UP 17% TO P3.3B
EPSON is optimistic that it would sustain its growth momentum in the Philippines and register 20-percent growth this year. According to Jester Cruz, Epson’s senior manager for product management and business development, the Japanese electronics company has been posting 20-percent growth year-on-year for the past five years. He disclosed this on the sidelines of Epson’s launch of its LightScene projector, which was first introduced in Japan and the United States. “We actually talked to a lot of our existing clients using projectors, and we showed the product and they were quite responsive and we were very happy about it. Its [best feature] is [that] it’s not intrusive. It takes into consideration the interior of the place. So it blends with the environment,� Cruz said, adding that the new project would hit the local market next month. LISBET K. ESMAEL
ASIA United Bank’s (AUB) consolidated net income increased to P3.3 billion last year, buoyed by its core lending businesses. The listed bank told the Philippine Stock Exchange on Wednesday that the figure was a 17.8-percent improvement from 2017’s P2.8 billion, and also translated to a return on assets of 1.5 percent and return on equity of 11.8 percent. AUB President Manuel Gomez credited the growth to the core lending businesses of the bank and its subsidiaries, which he said remained robust, despite growing competition within and outside the industry. Total assets rose by 19 percent to P238 billion in 2018 from P200 billion the year before. Total net interest income rose by 19 percent to P7.8 billion. AUB shares slid by 50 centavos or
MAYVELIN U. CARABALLO
EPSON SEES 20% GROWTH IN PH MARKET THIS YEAR
B4
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
Foreign Business
Korean Air chief forced off board by shareholders
S
EOUL: The head of South Korea’s flag seat on the board, Cho will not be to wield power over key mancarrier Korean Air — whose family have able agement issues such as appointing been embroiled in multiple scandals directors and CEOs. Shares of Korean Air closed up including one involving a “nut rage� tantrum 2.47 percent on Wednesday. — lost his board seat after shareholders voted against extending his term as director, the Criminal probes airline said Wednesday. Cho Yang-ho, who is currently on trial for corruption, failed to secure a required two-thirds majority, becoming the first controlling shareholder of a South Korean conglomerate to be forced off the board. The super-wealthy owners of chaebols — the sprawling conglomerates that dominate the world’s 11th-largest economy — are no strangers to controversy, but A STRING OF HIGH PROkLE SCANDALS have vaulted the Cho family to notoriety in South Korea, even sparking protests by their employees. The 70-year-old tycoon is the chairman of the Hanjin Group, which used to own the nowbankrupt Hanjin Shipping line. Cho controls around 30 percent of Korean Air through its parent
company Hanjin Kal. But the National Pension Service, the airline’s second-biggest shareholder, had said Tuesday it will oppose Cho’s re-election, citing his records of “undermining corporate value and infringing upon shareholder rights�. “It is correct that he has lost his seat as the director of the board,� a Korean Airspokesman told AFP. The vote had put “slight brakes� on Cho’s management of the airliner, she said, but stressed that he still had control over the company. “He maintains his post as the chairman and is the biggest shareholder of Korean Air so he will continue participating in the management,� she added. But analysts say that without a
The Cho family has been under scrutiny in recent years after being embroiled in multiple criminal probes over charges ranging from assault, embezzlement and smuggling luxury goods. Cho is on trial for embezzling more than 20 billion won and unfairly awarding contracts to companies controlled by his family members. His two daughters, who held management positions at Korean Air, previously became viral sensations for temper tantrums dubbed the “nut rage� and “water rage� scandals, forcing Cho to issue a public apology and remove them from their posts. “Korean Air has suffered tremendously under Chairman Cho Yang-ho’s imperial-style management since the ‘nut rage’ incident,�
Yonhap cited lawmaker Chae I-bae as saying at Wednesday’s general shareholder meeting. Chae was referring to an incident involving the elder daughter Cho Hyun-ah, who made global headlines in 2014 for kicking a cabin crew chief off a Korean Airplane after she was served macadamia nuts in a bag rather than a bowl. She later served a short prison sentence. Last year, her younger sister Cho Hyun-min was accused of throwing a drink into an advertising AGENCY MANAGER S FACE IN A kT OF rage during a business meeting. She was not indicted as the victim did not want to press charges. Their mother, Lee Myung-hee, has been questioned by police several times in connection with allegations of assault against her employees including cursing, kicking, slapping and even throwing a pair of scissors. Cho himself received a suspended jail sentence for tax evasion in 2000 and is awaiting a separate trial for using 30 billion won of company funds to renovate his house. AFP
Judge recommends partial ban on iPhone imports SAN FRANCISCO: A US trade judge ruled Tuesday that Apple had violated a Qualcomm chipmaker patent and said she would recommend banning imports of some iPhones. International Trade Commission Administrative Law Judge MaryJoan McNamara wrote that she would be recommending a “limited exclusion order together with a cease and desist order� against Apple. The company will not be required to post a bond while the order is reviewed by a panel of judges and then possibly US President Donald Trump because the iPhones don’t directly compete with any Qualcomm products, according to the ruling. “We appreciate Judge McNamara’s recognition of Apple’s infringement of our hardware patent and that she will be recommending an import ban and
cease and desist order,� Qualcomm general counsel Don Rosenberg said in released statement. The patent at issue in the ruling involved managing power and extending battery life. The case is one of two complaints by Qualcomm against Apple the commission is considering. The judge found that Apple did not violate other Qualcomm patents listed in the complaint. The ITC also released a finding siding with Apple in a separate Qualcomm patent complaint. Apple said it was “pleased� the ITC found Qualcomm’s latest patent claims invalid and described it as an “important step� to make sure US companies can compete fairly in the marketplace. “Qualcomm is using these cases to distract from having to answer for the real issues, their monopolistic business practices,� Apple said in a statement.
“They are being investigated by governments around the world for their behavior and we look forward to detailing the many ways they’re harming consumers and stifling innovation when we present our case in San Diego next month.� Apple shares were down a little more than a percent to $186.79 at the close of official trading in New York that followed release of the ruling. Meanwhile, Qualcomm shares were up 2.4 percent to $58. The Californian tech giants have been locked in a long-running battle over patents and royalties that has played out in courts and administrative bodies worldwide. Apple accuses Qualcomm of charging for invalid patents and claims the chipmaker was seeking a disproportionate amount for a single component.
Q BLAMED FROM B1
PSEi drops to 7,800 on Wall Street but traders were said to be still on edge about the global economy. Still, OANDA senior market analyst Jeffrey Halley said the reaction to last week’s so-called yield curve inversion
— which was last seen ahead of the kNANCIAL CRISIS A DECADE AGO ‡ HAD been “quickly consigned to history.� He added that “the volte-face in sentiment suggests to me that despite all THE NOISE MARKETS ARE lIP lOPPING ON
Last week, Qualcomm won a $31 million verdict in its multi-front war with Apple over patented technology used in iPhones. A jury in a federal court in southern California ordered Apple to pay Qualcomm for patent infringement for chips used on iPhone 7, 8 and X models. Patents at issue in that case involved “flashless booting� that allows devices to quickly connect to the internet after being turned on and technology that lets smartphone apps move online data efficiently. A third patent is related to promoting rich graphics in games while protecting battery life, according to Qualcomm. On another front, a federal judge in California issued a preliminary ruling that Qualcomm owes Apple nearly $1 billion in patent royalty rebate payments the chipmaker is withholding, according to US media reports. AFP
short-term data as we await the conclusion of the only real game in town: the US-China trade talks.� Top-level negotiators will on Thursday meet up again to try to hammer out an agreement with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer telling National Public Radio: “If there’s a great deal to be gotten, we’ll get it. If not, we’ll find another plan.�
Q CHINA FROM B1
Tall hurdles as Europe looks to close ranks 41-year-old French leader pointedly reminded his Chinese visitor that “we expect our major partners to respect the unity of the European Union.� Steven Blockmans, a foreign policy expert at the Centre for European Policy Studies in Brussels, told AFP that the meeting should be seen as part of EU efforts to be more assertive. “There is a feeling that member states need to come together in unison to be able to stand up to China,� he said. The change has been sparked in large part by concerns about China’s “Belt and Road� infrastructure venture, also known as the “New Silk Road�, which has seen Beijing disperse billions of dollars on investments abroad. The idea is to improve infrastructure to link Chinese manufacturers in the east to European consumers in the west along a route of around 60 countries. But China’s push deep into Europe, where it has snapped up strategic assets such as ports and promised lucrative contracts for some of the bloc’s cash-strapped economies, has sounded alarm bells.
Days before Xi’s visit, the European Commission released a sharply worded plan for balancing ties with China, warning that Beijing was a “systemic rival� as well as the bloc’s biggest trading partner. The list of European grievances is long. The Commission raised the longstanding problem of forced technology transfers, in which European companies must transfer technology to China to win contracts. It also outlined issues such as Chinese subsidies for its industrial companies, which distort global competition, as well as the closed public procurement market in China. European officials have long CHAFED AT THE BLOC S HUGE TRADE DEkcit with Beijing — it imported 375 billion euros of goods in 2017 while exporting just 198 billion euros. There is also mounting anxiety about cybersecurity, particularly over new 5G mobile phone technology from China’s Huawei that the US has warned could be used for spying. “In my opinion, this is the beginning of a long-term adjustment of EU-China relations,� said Alice Ekman, head of China studies at the French Institute of Interna-
tional Relations.
‘Being realistic’ Both Macron and Merkel insisted Tuesday on the need for “reciprocity� in relations with China and a level playing field regarding trade and business ventures. Last month, EU lawmakers voted in new methods for screening foreign investments in Europe which will LIMIT #HINA S ABILITY TO BUY kRMS IN the strategic technology and infrastructure sectors. And last week, European leaders devoted time during a meeting in Brussels to discuss their policies towards China — a rare step that many observers saw as a belated awakening to the risks. “I really think that Europe is getting its act together,� said Philippe Le Corre, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. This will be put to the test next month when Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang touches down in Brussels for another summit with EU leaders.
‘Carrot and stick’ But the problem for leaders such
˜ The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
Cathay Pacific to buy budget carrier for $628M HONG KONG: (ONG +ONG lAG CARRIER #ATHAY 0ACIkC SAID ON 7EDNESDAY it will buy budget airline HK Express for more than US$600 million as it moves to counter competition from the increasing number of low-cost carriers in the region. 4HE MOVE IS ITS kRST FORAY INTO the budget sector and will leave Cathay controlling three of the four airlines at one of Asia’s busiest airports at a time of huge growth in the region’s air industry. It comes weeks after the carrier said it had swung back into the black in 2018 following two years of losses and will help ease concerns after an embarrassing DATA BREACH THAT DENTED THE kRM S reputation and could prove costly. “HK Express captures a unique market segment,� Cathay said in a statement. “This represents an attractive and practical way for the Cathay Group to support the longterm development and growth of our aviation business and to enhance the competitiveness of the Hong Kong hub during a time of intense regional competition.� Cathay will stump up HK$4.93 billion (US$628.15 million) for the airline in a deal that is expected to be completed by $ECEMBER ACCORDING TO A kLING announcement. 4HE kRM SAID IT WILL CONTINUE TO operate HK Express as a “standalone airline using the low-cost carrier business model�. “The transaction is expected to generate synergies as the businesses and business models OF #ATHAY 0ACIkC AND (+% ARE largely complementary,� it added. Cathay shares rose almost three percent after the announcement but later retreated to end the day almost 2.5 percent lower at HK$13.34. HK Express is the city’s sole budget carrier — a sector that premium-focused Cathay has struggled to compete against despite rivals such as Singapore Airlines making inroads years ago.
‘Goodbye to its worst time’ But analyst Dickie Wong of Kings-
In early trade, meanwhile, London rose 0.3 percent, Frankfurt added 0.2 percent and Paris put on 0.1 percent. Back in Manila, only the services SECTOR kNISHED HIGHER UP PERCENT All others slipped. More than 1.2 billion shares valued at P5.6 billion were traded. Losers led winners, 139 to 71, while 49 issues remained unchanged. ANGELICA BALLESTEROS AND AFP
as Macron who want to see a more coordinated EU strategy is individual members states pursuing narrower national interests. “Overall there is a very fractured, fragmented approach by EU member states vis-a-vis China, at a bilateral and regional level,� Blockmans said. He says members states have “old habits of trying to strike the best deal they can with this rising superpower.� /NE lAGRANT EXAMPLE WAS )TALY S decision to sign up to Beijing’s “New Silk Road� infrastructure initiative last week — despite scowls of disapproval from its EU partners. And while Xi praised multilateralism and EU cooperation during his kVE DAY VISIT TO )TALY -ONACO AND France, few expect China to change course in how it deals with the EU. “They like talking to countries individually — it’s not so different from (US President) Donald Trump — and they’ve been shaping EU-China relations in that way,� said Le Corre. Just days after the EU-China summit on April 9, Croatia will hold this year’s meeting of the so-called “16+1� forum of Central and European countries, which was formed by China. -ANY %UROPEAN OFkCIALS BELIEVE IT is designed to split the EU. Of the 16 countries which have partnered with Beijing in the forum, 11 are EU members. AFP
ton Securities said it is now rectifying its “shortcoming.� “I think Cathay has said goodbye to its worst time when it lost money from fuel-hedging contracts, faced an unclear business outlook and competition with budget airlines,� he added. Wong said the falling share price was “just a normal pullback after a recent gain.� HK Express is owned by HNA Group, a struggling Chinese conglomerate that has been looking to lower its debt pile. The group also owns Hong Kong Airlines, another Cathay competitor that HAS FOUND ITSELF IN kNANCIAL DIFkCULTIES IN RECENT MONTHS (+ %XPRESS lIES TO SEVERAL REgional cities including in Japan, South Korea, mainland China, Thailand and Vietnam. Cathay has been overhauling ITS BUSINESS AFTER POSTING ITS kRST LOSSES FOR EIGHT YEARS IN kRing more than 600 workers and PARING OVERSEAS OFkCES AND CREW stations as it faces stiff competition from budget rivals in China. It has also added international routes and better on-board services in a bid to compete with well-heeled Middle Eastern longdistance carriers. The overhaul appears to have paid off. Earlier this month #ATHAY 0ACIkC ANNOUNCED A NET profit of HK$2.35 billion last year, ending two successive annual losses. However, chairman John Slosar raised concerns about the strength of the US dollar, geopolitical uncertainty and global trade tensions, which he said could dampen passenger and cargo demand in the coming year. It is also potentially facing a big bill after admitting in October to A MASSIVE DATA BREACH kVE MONTHS after hackers made off with the information of 9.4 million customers, including some passport numbers and credit card details. 5+ BASED LAW kRM 30' ,AW has already launched a group action against the carrier over the breach to help customers seek compensation. AFP
Q KRITZ FROM B1
Another disappointment might actually take a disaster to catalyze the needed improvements. As things stand now, the best-case scenario is that the kNAL APPROVAL OF THE UPGRADE PROJECT CAN HAPPEN SOMETIME in the third quarter, with substantial work getting underway in the early part of next year. The airport essentially needs a new, higher-capacity terminal — proper renovation of Terminal 1 would amount to the same thing — and an additional runway; anything less would be a complete waste of time and money. Those are formidable undertakings, however, and likely could not be completed in less than three to four year. Unless the airport was completely shut down and construction resources diverted from the conglomerate’s other projects, neither of which will happen. The likely completion date of the NAIA upgrade is pushed even further into the future by the simple fact that it is being initiated in the midst of the government’s “build, build, build� infrastructure frenzy. While a great deal of work has gotten underway, the outcomes so far have shown that the government’s reach exceeds the country’s grasp by a considerable distance. There just simply aren’t enough skills and resources to go around, which is slowing things down. Progress is also being hindered by problems that should be considered normal and should have been anticipated at the outset of projects. For example, disputes over right-of-way have caused additional lengthy delays in the construction of both the LRT-1 rail extension to Cavite, and the new MRT-7 to Bulacan. In addition to all that, the ongoing delay in the enactment of the 2019 budget, which as of now will not be possible before June, is slowing progress generally. It likely does not have a direct impact on ongoing projects apart from being another distraction, but the delay does affect anything new — which includes the NAIA project, the proposed new airport to be located in Bulacan, the Makati and Metro Manila subway projects, and the critically needed new water supply project, wherever it is to be located. With half his term past, President Rodrigo Duterte’s Mussolini-like ambitions to leave a legacy of large-scale public works increasingly risks turning into the equally -USSOLINI LIKE RESULT OF A COLLECTION OF HALF kNISHED DISappointments. White elephants make lousy monuments; the government ought to reassess its priorities, shorten its horizons, and make sure that it isn’t actually building any.
Email: ben.kritz@manilatimes.net
˜ The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
Achieving water security (second of two parts) E never learn. All the while we all knew that an El NiĂąo episode was coming this year and what did we do in advance? Almost nothing. Or absolutely nothing. In contrast, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam as early as August last year issued a directive to rice farmers in the Mekong River Delta (MRD) to adjust their planting calendar to avoid the impact of salinity intrusion. The directive took into account climate-risk related maps and adaptation plans covering the provinces comprising the MRD. The article “Vietnam adopts pre-emptive measures in the Mekong River Delta against El NiĂąoâ€? posted in the CGIAR portal stated that rice farmers in the MRD have made adjustments to their planting calendar, enabling them to avoid the adverse effects of the dry spell, including seawater intrusion. “Based on the reports of the 13 provincial DARDs (Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development), areas planting earlier (November 2018) reached 802,702 hectares (from 174,538 ha in 2017) and a reduction in later planting (December to February) to 596,543 ha (from 1,226,961 ha). This covers more than 600,000 ha, which enable the farmers to avoid the adverse effects of salinity intrusion during winterspring rice planting season being exacerbated by the ongoing El NiĂąo,â€? it stated. Indeed, we never learn. In 2015-2016, the country experienced one of the worst El NiĂąo episodes that affected our agriculture sector severely. And we chose to wallow in amnesia. Eventually, we pay the price. Rice imports are set to arrive into the country as the Rice 4ARIFkCATION ,AW HAS ALREADY been signed last month. And rice farming has the highest water requirement among crops. So, this is actually the worst time for smallholder rice farmers to be hit by El NiĂąo, as they will be facing competition from imports from Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam. I heard cloud seeding opERATIONS ARE IN THE OFkNG "UT when the rains from the cloud seeding operations arrive, where do we store the rainwater when our rainharvesting rate is an anemic 4 percent? Worse, heavy downpour will easily wash away dried up top soil, affecting longterm crop productivity. Now that another El NiĂąo episode is here, let us start learning lessons anew and make sure we don’t forget them. More importantly, we should try new and innovative solutions and technologies to help avoid water shortage not only during El NiĂąo occurrences but also when water is scarce, like the dry seasons. Also, there were a lot discussed during the National Water Summit (NWS) held on March 21 at the Novotel in Cubao, Quezon City. I was the one who delivered the situationer and solutions for Agriculture and Economics during the NWS, and I will discuss, among others, part of those in this second installment.
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The way forward Groundwater extraction remains a prevalent practice in many areas in the Philippines, which can be made sustainable if aquifers are recharged during the rainy season. Failure to recharge aquifers, which is hardly
WAYS OF THE OASIS DR. WILLIAM DAR done in this country, can lead to saltwater intrusion that can MAKE FARMING AND INLAND kSHery production impossible. The areas in the country where groundwater extraction is practiced and saltwater intrusion is happening are Metro Manila and Bulacan, according to experts. O n e g o o d way t o m a k e our aquifers healthy anew is through artificial recharging, which is not rocket science. )NDIA IS A COUNTRY ARTIkCIAL REcharging of aquifers is practiced with numerous systems/models in place that can be easily duplicated in the Philippines. We edo not even need foreign HELP TO DEVELOP ARTIkCIAL AQUIfer recharging systems, as local research institutions and state colleges and universities (SCUs) can take the lead. The most brilliant students of SCUs, particularly those that offer agriculture and related courses, can even BE MOBILIZED DESIGN ARTIkCIAL aquifer recharging systems for the local setting. There is also a need to build more cascading water catchment ponds in areas that host the large dams to help promote more economic activities in the lowlands. The prevalent practice today is to simply unload all the excess water from the dams and let them lOW OUT TO THE SEAS WHICH RESULTS IN ALMOST ZERO ECONOMIC BENEkTS If there were cascading water catchment ponds or systems in place, the excess water could be impounded or stored to raise CROPS AND kSH AND USED TO CLEAN establishments, among others. Flood control infrastructure should also be designed in a way to promote economic activities, or the excess water saved through encatchments or ponds, which ALSO PREVENTS THE lOODING OF LOWland areas especially farmlands. But for dams to have water, we should invest in reforestation and watershed rehabilitation and desilting, so the capacity of the dams will reach 100 percent and have enough water for irrigation, household, industry and power generation. Illegal logging operations, which is usually followed by slash-andburn (kaingin) farming, should be completely stopped. As for irrigation, about 1.89 million ha are already covered under the National Irrigation System (NIS) of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA). But the NIS only functions at 40 percent from issues ranging from dilapidated structures to low water supply. Another 1.24 million ha need to be placed under the NIS, and NIA cannot do it alone. So, it makes sense to invite the private sector to invest in national irrigation systems following the Build-Transfer mechanism. Solarpowered irrigation is OK, so as long as there is water supply in our rivers and remain functional during the dry season. For small water impounding systems (SWIPs), the Bureau of Soils and Water Management should be given as much as P10 billion from the current P1 billion to establish such systems. SWIPs can also serve as water catchment systems linked to the big dams. It is hard to write about all the solutions that were discussed during the NWS, but the presentation of the NEDA during the summit showed one thing — the country is already “water stressed.� Should we wait until our water resources run dry? As Benjamin Franklin said: “When the well is dry, we know the worth of water.� It is really time to learn lessons.
Agribusiness
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
B5
Searca assists upland Leyte women for agribusiness BY LEANDER C. DOMINGO
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OMEN from the upland communities of Inopacan town in Leyte province are now into banana and takudo (gabi) chips production and enterprise development, thanks to the efforts of the Philippine government-hosted Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca).
Q The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (Searca) trained women from the upland communities of Inopacan town in Leyte province in making banana and takudo (gabi) chips. Lower photo shows the processing plant that Searca established for the project. SEARCA PHOTOS
The University of the Philippines Los BaĂąos-based Searca, a treaty organization, has been helping women in Inopacan town to start a fruit and rootcrop chips processing enterprise through its Inclusive and Sustainable AgriCultural and Rural Development (Isard) action research project. The Searca-funded Isard project facilitated chips production trainings, the construction of a chips processing plant, and microlending. The project was led by Jose Bacusmo, Visayas State University (VSU) former president, and coordinated by Jose Medina of Searca and jointly
implemented by VSU, the Visayas Consortium for Agriculture and Aquatic Resources Program and the Inopacan local government. Bacusmo said the project provides assistance through participatory approaches in developing social enterprises focused on banana and three other commodities by linking farmer organizations with various institutions and entrepreneurs to do business. In collaboration with the VSU Food Processing Center, Searca said the Hinabay Women Workers’ Association was trained in processing banana chips, as well
as takudo chips. “The women’s group added takudo, a rootcrop widely grown in the area, as another frying chip material because it is cheaper than banana,� Bacusmo said. Searca said the establishment of a chips processing plant in Inopacan was facilitated by the project with funding from the local government of Inopacan, enabling the women’s group to train on-site with hands-on exercises that easily helped them start chips production right right away. The Department of Science and Technology was tapped to provide
a banana chip cutter and fryer to better equip the processing plant. Meanwhile, the project is also working on improving the production of jackfruit and tilapia culture to contribute to household food security and environmental sustainability through an integrated coconut farming system. Searca has embarked on upscaling effective models of Isard to strengthen the linkages among farmers, industry players and government institutions in achieving Isard outcomes of food and nutrition security and poverty alleviation.
Belarus tractor firm eyes PH ‘Crab A BELARUS-based farm tractor company has expressed interest in putting up an assembly plant in the country and grow its agro-machinery partnerships in the Philippines, Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel PiĂąol said on Monday. The potential for bilateral investment was discussed by a visiting Philippine delegation led by the Department of Agriculture (DA), WHO MET WITH THE OFkCIALS OF THE Minsk Tractor Works, makers of the iconic Belarus farm tractor. While PiĂąol noted that the agromachinery partnership with Minsk Tractor Works could provide employment to Filipino engineers and skilled workers, the DA assured the Belarusians “ease of doing business without corruptionâ€? in the Philippines. “Assured that the Duterte Administration has initiated a campaign to check corruption in government, especially in the procurement of equipment, machinery and supplies, Minsk 4RACTOR 7ORKS OFkCIALS SAID THEY WILL immediately send a delegation to the
Philippines to scout for possible local distributors,â€? PiĂąol said in a statement. “The Minsk Tractor Works said opening up an assembly plant could make the company more competitive in the sale of their farm tractors,â€? he added. Founded in 1946, Minsk Tractor Works has turned into one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural machinery worldwide, employing more than 17,000 people. Under President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, the Philippines is moving towards achieving maximum agricultural output through mechanization to boost food production amid a fast-growing population. PiĂąol earlier said that the country lags behind in productivity from postharvest losses of about 16.4 percent of total production, observed mainly in harvesting and milling. At present, the country’s mechanization rate is at only 2.2 horsepower per hectare (hp/ha), significantly lower than Vietnam and Thailand’s level that ranges between 4 to 7 hp/ha. In June last year, Korean Agri-
culture Machinery Industry Cooperative also announced its plan to construct a facility in a 50-hectare location within Clark Airbase that would allow them to assemble tractors and fabricate implements and tools for farming sector. The Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) is the leading institution for farm mechanization in the Philippines, as mandated by Republic Act 10601 or the “Agriculture and Fisheries Mechanization Act.� The agency develops protocols and processes, wherein technologies produced by the agency and locallyavailable equipment are tapped for easier adoption by farmers, cooperatives and agribusiness enterprises. The agency has been encouraging Filipino farmers to embrace farm mechanization amid labor displacement issues. It said farm mechanization does not only lower production cost, but has attract younger people into the agriculture sector. EIREENE JAIREE GOMEZ
SSNM can increase corn yields THE precise application of fertilizers to produce corn can almost double on-farm yields, according to results from a program implemented by the Department of Agriculture (DA). More than 200 farmers, mostly corn farmers from Barangay San Vicente and neighboring barangays (villages), attended the “Farmers’ Field Day on Communitybased Participatory Action Research (CPAR) on Yellow Corn Using 3ITE 3PECIkC .UTRIENT -ANAGEMENT (SSNM) Approach� in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro on March 20, where they claimed they got as much as 7.9 tons per hectare (t/ ha). The average corn yield in the barangay prior to utilizing SSNM was 4 t/ha. Organized by DA-Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon AND 0ALAWAN THE kELD DAY AIMED TO showcase the impact of technologies generated from the CPAR project fOR THE BENEkT OF CORN FARMERS in the region. One of the major highlights of the activity were the testimonials of the farmer-cooperators, wherein they claimed that their yellow corn production increased from an average of 4 t/ha to 7.9 t/ha. They attributed the yield increase from the adoption of the SSNM best practices and the use of the Quick Guide for
Q Louella Rowena Lorenzana, regional technical director for Research and Regulations of the Department of Agriculture-Mimaropa (Region 4A) (wearing blue blouse), leads corn farmers during the harvest festival � in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, on March 20. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Fertilizing Hybrid Yellow Corn. The CPAR Yellow Corn SSNM project is funded by the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR), an agency under the DA. “The SSNN is an approach which promotes the optimal use of fertilizers, existing nutrients from the soil, crop residue, manures and timely application of fertilizers,� DA-Mimaropa said in a statement. The BAR-Applied Communication Division in collaboration with PTV 4’s “Mag Agri-Tayo� program, DOCUMENTED THE kELD DAY
33.- WAS kRST UTILIZED IN RICE FARM ing with the aim of precisely utilizing inputs. The usual method of applying fertlizers is the “blanket� method, which can result in overuse of inputs. “The SSNM approach does not specifically aim to reduce or increase fertilizer use. It aims to apply nutrients at optimal rates and times to achieve high yield and high efkCIENCY OF NUTRIENT USE BY THE RICE crop, leading to high cash value of the harvest per unit of fertilizer invested,� BAR said.
CONRAD M. CARIĂ‘O
Capital’ boosts production CALLED the crab capital of Cagayan province, the coastal town of Buguey, is one of the major aquaculture areas in Cagayan Valley (Region 2), with vast areas of brackishwater fishponds and a vibrant fish cage industry within the United Nations (UN)-recognized Buguey Lagoon. According to the Municipal Agriculturist (MA) office, this town’s fisheries industry recently had a major boost with the soft opening of the fish hatchery in the town. Danilo Rumpon, MA officer, said that while fish farmers in the area still have to go to or order tilapia fingerlings from as far as Isabela province, the availability of fingerlings here could improve productivity and profitability of fish farmers by way of reduced transport costs and higher survival rate. Rumpon said that with Buguey’s extensive fishponds and fish cages within the lagoon, fish farmers could culture species of siganids, bangus, tilapia, talakitok and snapper. Also within the lagoon, oysters could thrive naturally. Recognized by the UN in 1998, the 14-kilometer Buguey Lagoon is rich in aquatic resources, habitats of endemic species in the area, especially siganids, shrimps and shellfish as well as crabs and crablings. It was declared “a land of international importance� by the UN Educational, Scientific and Educational Council. Rumpon said tilapia fingerlings were being given free at the moment from the Buguey Municipal Fish Hatchery (BMFH). “We are still on the initial stages. The hatchery is soon to be fully operational as we are still on the process of procuring needed equipment,� he said, adding that fingerlings would be sold and only part of total order would be subsidized. A pet project of Mayor Lloyd Antiporda, the hatchery facility, located near the municipal town hall, has several covered and uncovered circular and rectangular tanks, storage room and staff house. In 2016, the project was initially funded under the Bottom-Up Budgeting system with P1.75 million from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 2 office and P250,000 equity from the local government unit (LGU). Rumpon said the LGU had continuously made investments for the project, enabling it to fully operate. “In addition to the present saline tolerant tilapia, we will go into mudcrab hatchery later. In that case, the hatchery will become the very first mudcrab hatchery in the Cagayan Valley region,� he said. LEANDER C. DOMINGO
B6
Classified Ads
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
MARKETS AND SECURITIES REGULATION DEPARTMENT IN THE MATTER OF
: :
SEC MSRD Order No. 5 Series of 2019
CENTURY PROPERTIES GROUP, INC. : Registration of Securities - Registrant : x---------------------------------------x
NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT
NOTICE OF SELFADJUDICATION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ESTATE OF THE LATE FERMIN NISPEROS AND EUFEMIA NISPEROS WAS EXTRAJUDICIALLY SETTLED WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS AMONG THEIR HEIRS AS PER DOC. NO. 2076; SERVICE NO. 4527; O.R. NO. 1613; SERIES OF 2019 UNDER VANESSA G. BAGO-LLONA, CONSUL OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES IN SAN FRANCISCO, U.S.A.
Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late Maria /X] 5H\HV 0HQGR]D was WKH VXEMHFW RI DQ DIÂżGDYLW RI self-adjudication executed by her sole heir Maria 6RILD 5H\HV 0HQGR]D on March 14, 2019 and acknowledged as Doc. No. 409 on Page No. 83 of Book No. 3 Series of 2019 before Atty. Leila Mae M. Estabillo, a notary public for and in the City of San Fernando.
MT – Mar. 21, 28 & Apr. 4, 2019
In this regard and after determining that the company has complied with the required submission, as directed in the PreEffective Letter issued on March 21, 2019, the subject Registration Statement is now rendered effective. /HW D &HUWLÂżFDWH RI 3HUPLW WR 2IIHU 6HFXULWLHV IRU 6DOH EH LVVXHG in favor of CENTURY PROPERTIES GROUP, INC. DXWKRUL]LQJ the sale and distribution of the above-mentioned securities. Let this Order be published at the expense of the Issuer in a newspaper of general circulation and uploaded in its website within (2) business days from its issuance. The corporation is hereby directed to furnish the Commission with a copy of the DIÂżGDYLW RI SXEOLFDWLRQ RI WKLV 2UGHU SO ORDERED.
HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD ([SDQGHG 1DWLRQDO &DSLWDO 5HJLRQ )LHOG 2IÂżFH 6WK )ORRU 6XQQ\PHGH ,7 &HQWHU 4XH]RQ $YHQXH 4XH]RQ &LW\ NOTICE Notice is hereby given that HORIZON LAND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, RZQHU GHYHORSHU KDYH ÂżOHG ZLWK this Board a sworn registration statement for the sale of SIENA TOWERS located at Toyota Ave. corner Marquinton Drive, Brgy., 6WR 1LQR 0DULNLQD &LW\ VSHFLÂżFDOO\ described as Lot 5-B (LRA) Psd00-093521 covered by 7LWOH 1R 009-2017010249 with a total area of 5,473 square meters. This project was issued Temporary License to Sell No. ENCRFO-17-08-017 dated September 16, 2017. 7KH IRUHJRLQJ SURMHFW LV XWLOL]LQJ BALAI housing project located at Bo. Binanagan, Pujida & Wood, Municipality of Mati, Davao Oriental, under MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT between HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD , THE CITY GOVERNMENT OF MATI, DAVAO ORIENTAL, THE HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND and FEDERAL LAND, INC. as its compliance pursuant to Section 18 of Republic Act No. 7279, All papers relative thereto shall upon request and payment of processing fee, be available for inspection during business hours by any person having legal interest thereon Absent any legal impediment, the above-cited project is deemed registered and a certificate, in evidence thereof, shall forthwith be LVVXHG DIWHU ÂżYH GD\V IURP WKH ODVW day of publication.
Pasay City, Philippines. March 27, 2019. .
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HOUSING AND LAND USE REGULATORY BOARD ([SDQGHG 1DWLRQDO &DSLWDO 5HJLRQ )LHOG 2IÂżFH 6WK )ORRU 6XQQ\PHGH ,7 &HQWHU 4XH]RQ $YHQXH 4XH]RQ &LW\
LORETO MUYOT AND TERESA SOLIS, Plaintiff, - versus -
This is to notify the public that APEX (PHILIPPINES) EQUITIES CORPORATION has changed its SULQFLSDO RIÂżFH DGGUHVV IURP Mary Bachrach Bldg., corner 25 th & Railroad Streets, Port Area, Manila Philippines Unit 1, 21 )ORRU 3KLOLSSLQH 6WRFN ([FKDQJH 7RZHU WK $YHQXH FRU WK 6WUHHW %RQLIDFLR *OREDO &LW\ 7DJXLJ &LW\ 3KLOLSSLQHV
All papers relative thereto shall upon request and payment of processing fee, be available for inspection during business hours by any person having legal interest thereon
The public is hereby informed of the loss of Stock &HUWLÂżFDWH 1R IRU RQH (1) share of TAGAYTAY MIDLANDS GOLF CLUB, INC. issued in the name of EDUARDO C. DE LUNA. If no contest is presented to the Corporation regarding the above-mentioned stock certificate within one (1) year from this notice, the right to contest shall be barred and the Corporation VKDOO LVVXH D QHZ FHUWLÂżFDWH in lieu of the lost one subject to and in accordance with the provisions of Sec. 73 of the Corporation Code.
4XH]RQ &LW\ 0HWUR 0DQLOD MAR. 13, 2019 (SGD.) ATTY. NORMAN JACINTO P. DORAL 2IÂżFHU LQ &KDUJH M.T.-March 21 & 28, 2019
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FRANCISCO CHANLIONGCO, VICTORINO CHANLIONGCO, CARMELITA CHANLIONGCO, LUCILA CHANLIONGCO, REDENTOR CHANLIONGCO, SOLEDAD CHANLIONGCO, ANTOLINO CHANLIONGCO, ARNULFO CHANLIONGCO, FIDELA M. CHANLIONGCO, AMOR CHANLIONGCO, ALEGRIA C. BARBA, ADORACION M. CALUMA, CLARITA LIM, GINA LIM, AND REGISTER OF DEEDS FOR CITY OF MANILA, Defendants. x-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------x
TAGAYTAY MIDLANDS GOLF CLUB, INC.
MT – March 28, April 1 & 8, 2019
1.
The Government of the Republic of the Philippines through the Department of 3XEOLF :RUNV DQG +LJKZD\V KDV UHFHLYHG ÂżQDQFLQJ IURP WKH -DSDQ ,QWHUQDWLRQDO Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the Arterial Road Bypass Project and intends to apply part of the proceeds of this loan to payment under the contract for the Consulting Services for the Construction Supervision of the Arterial Road Bypass Project, Phase Ill, Contract Packages 1, 2 and 4 under JICA Loan Agreement No. PH-P266.
2.
The Department of Public Works and Highways now calls for the submission of SUHTXDOLÂżFDWLRQ GRFXPHQWV IRU
ALIAS SUMMONS
Project: Location: Objective:
GREETINGS: <RX DUH KHUHE\ UHTXLUHG ZLWKLQ ÂżIWHHQ GD\V DIWHU VHUYLFH RI WKLV VXPPRQV XSRQ \RX WR ÂżOH ZLWK WKLV Court and serve on plaintiff your answer to the complaint, copy of which is hereto attached together with WKH DQQH[HV ,I \RX IDLO WR DQVZHU ZLWKLQ WKH WLPH Âż[HG WKH SODLQWLII ZLOO WDNH MXGJPHQW E\ GHIDXOW DQG PD\ be granted the relief applied for in the complaint. Manila, 11 March 2019. (SGD.) ATTY. NEIL ANTONIO R. ESTIL Branch Clerk of Court Republic of the Philippines National Capital Judicial Region REGIONAL TRIAL COURT %UDQFK 0DQLOD LORETO MUYOT AND TERESA SOLIS, Plaintiff, - versus -
Civil Case No. R-MNL-18-03801-CV For: $118/0(17 2) 7,7/( &$1&(//$7,21 OF TITLE AND ISSUANCE OF NEW TITLE
FRANCISCO CHANLIONGCO, VICTORINO CHANLIONGCO, CARMELITA CHANLIONGCO, LUCILA CHANLIONGCO, REDENTOR CHANLIONGCO, SOLEDAD CHANLIONGCO, ANTOLINO CHANLIONGCO, ARNULFO CHANLIONGCO, FIDELA M. CHANLIONGCO, AMOR CHANLIONGCO, ALEGRIA C. BARBA, ADORACION M. CALUMA, CLARITA LIM, GINA LIM, AND THE REGISTRY OF DEEDS FOR THE CITY OF MANILA, Defendants. x---------------------------------------------------------------------------------x
Outputs/ Deliverables:
RESOLUTION Submitted for resolution are plaintiffsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (1) Motion to declare defendant Chanliongcos, Alegria Barba and Adoracion Caluma in default; and, (2) Motion to Serve Summons (through publication for defendants Clarita and Gina Lim). On the courtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 24 September 2018 order, it directed defendants Francisco, Victorino, Carmelita and Lucila Chanliongcos, Alegria Barba, and Adoracion Caluma to comment on the motion to declare them in GHIDXOW 1R FRPPHQW ZDV ÂżOHG Acting on the pending incidents, with respect to defendants Francisco, Victorino, Carmelita and Lucila Chanliongcos, Alegria Barba, and Adoracion Caluma, insofar as the motion to declare them in default, it is hereby GRANTED ,W LV QRWHG WKDW WKH\ KDYH QRW ÂżOHG WKHLU UHVSHFWLYH DQVZHUV $V WR WKHP HYLGHQFH IURP plaintiff will be received ex-parte on 0DUFK DW LQ WKH DIWHUQRRQ
Applicable Experience 4XDOLÂżFDWLRQ RI 3HUVRQQHO Job Capacity 7RWDO
SO ORDERED. 11 February 2019, Manila.
Copy Furnished: ATTY. ALYSHA GRACE M. ZULUETA Counsel for the Plaintiff ZULUETA LAW OFFICE Unit 7Q, 7F Manila Executive Regency 1200 Jorge Bocobo Street, Ermita, Manila 1000
CLARITA LIM GINA LIM Defendants %RWK DW &RUGLOOHUD FRUQHU $OFDUD] 6WUHHWV 6WD 0HVD +HLJKWV 4XH]RQ &LW\
REGISTRY OF DEEDS FOR CITY OF MANILA Defendant 2nd Floor, Manila City Hall
_________________________________________ 1
Service upon defendant whose identity or whereabouts are unknown. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; In any action where the defendant is designated as an unknown owner, or the like, or whenever are unknown. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; In action where the defendant is designated as an unknown owner, or the like, or whenever his whereabouts are unknown and cannot be ascertained by diligent inquiry, service may, by leave of court, be affected upon him by publication in a newspaper of general circulation and in such places and for such time as the court may order. MT - Mar. 28, 2019
35 pts. SWV 25 pts. SWV
4.
The Procuring Entity shall evaluate bids using the Quality Cost Based Selection (QCBS) procedure. The Technical and Financial Proposals shall have weights of 80% and 20%, respectively. Only bids whose technical proposals pass the PLQLPXP WHFKQLFDO HYDOXDWLRQ VFRUH RI VHYHQW\ ÂżYH SHUFHQW VKDOO KDYH WKHLU ÂżQDQFLDO SURSRVDO RSHQHG DQG HYDOXDWHG 7KH FULWHULD DQG UDWLQJ V\VWHP for the evaluation of bids are provided in the Instructions to Bidders.
5.
The contract shall be done and completed within WZHQW\ VHYHQ PRQWKV
6.
The Department of Public Works and Highways reserves the right to reject any and all bids, annul the bidding process, or not award the contract at any time prior to contract award, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected bidder or bidders.
7.
For further information, please refer to:
LORETO MUYOT TERESA SOLIS Plaintiff 1782-C Antonio Rivera, Tondo, Manila
FRANCISCO CHANLIONGCO, VICTORINO CHANLIONGCO, CARMELITA CHANLIONGCO, LUCILA CHANLIONGCO, REDENTOR CHANLIONGCO, SOLEDAD CHANLIONGCO, ANTOLINO CHANLIONGCO, ARNULFO CHANLIONGCO, FIDELA M. CHANLIONGCO, AMOR CHANLIONGCO, ALEGRIA C. BARBA, ADORACION M. CALUMA Defendants All at 817 Endaya Street, Binondo, Manila
7KH 3UHTXDOLÂżFDWLRQ )RUPV ZLOO EH DYDLODEOH DW ZZZ GSZK JRY SK The BAC shall draw up the shortlist of Consultants from those who have submitted ([SUHVVLRQ RI ,QWHUHVW DQG 3UHTXDOLÂżFDWLRQ 'RFXPHQWV 7KH VKRUWOLVW VKDOO FRQVLVW RI DW OHDVW WKUHH WR PD[LPXP RI ÂżYH SURVSHFWLYH ELGGHUV ZKR ZLOO EH HQWLWOHG WR submit bids. The criteria and rating systems for shortlisting are:
As regards Clarita and Gina Lim, let the summonses be served through publication, as their whereabouts are unknown.1
JEAN MARIE A. BACORRO-VILLENA Presiding Judge
Consulting Services for the Construction Supervision of the Arterial Road Bypass Project, Phase Ill, Contract Packages 1, 2 and 4 under JlCA Loan Agreement No. PH-P266 '3:+ &HQWUDO 2IÂżFH %RQLIDFLR 'ULYH 3RUW $UHD 0DQLOD 7R HQJDJH WKH VHUYLFHV RI D TXDOLÂżHG DQG H[SHULHQFHG Consulting Engineering Firm (the Consultant) to provide the necessary engineering services that involves Construction Supervision of the Arterial Road Bypass Project, Phase III (ARBP Ill), Contract Packages 1, 2, and 4 with the following scope of CS: 1. Construction Supervision 2. Project Management Support 3. Monitoring in the implementation of the Environmental Management Plan and monitoring to the compliance to the (QYLURQPHQWDO &RPSOLDQFH &HUWLÂżFDWH (&& FRQGLWLRQV 4. Assistance in the implementation and monitoring of the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) 5. Monitoring of impact of project on the standard of living of the Project Affected Person/Families (PAP/F) and strengthening of related livelihood programs. 6. Assistance to the DPWH in coordination activities with the concerned Local Government Units (LGU) &RQGXFW 7UDIÂżF 6XUYH\ FRQVLVWLQJ RI PDQXDO WUDIÂżF FODVVLÂżFDWLRQ FRXQW DV ZHOO DV YHKLFOH RULJLQ GHVWLQDWLRQ surveys/interviews as a basis to revalidate and reassess previous studies by considering Phase I, Phase Il and Phase Ill. DPWH shall require the Consultant to render other technical support services which are deemed necessary/relevant to the implementation of the Project. 1. Inception Reports 2. Monthly Progress Report 3. ECC compliance monitoring report 4. Annual Progress Report 5. Loan Disbursement Schedule 6. Submission of As-Built Plans 7. Final Report 8. Project Completion Report (PCR) 9. Service Completion Report
,QWHUHVWHG &RQVXOWDQWV PXVW VXEPLW WKHLU SUHTXDOLÂżFDWLRQ GRFXPHQWV QRW ODWHU than 30 RQ $SULO at Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) for Consulting Services, Room 502-A 5th Floor, DPWH Building, Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila, with an Application Letter or Expression of Interest for Eligibility to participate in the bidding.
Notice is given to the public that 2UFKDUG *ROI DQG &RXQWU\ &OXE Stock FHUWLÂżFDWH 1R % LVVXHG LQ IDYRU of Mr. Chiu Huang Shih a.k.a. James 6KLK ZDV GHFODUHG ORVW LQ WKH $IÂżGDYLW RI Loss executed by Mr. Chiu Huang Shih and recorded in the notarial register of Atty. Concepcion Villarena last January 30, 2019. MT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mar. 21, 28 & Apr. 4, 2019
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION REGIONAL TRIAL COURT NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 88, QUEZON CITY
NOTICE OF LOSS OF STOCK CERTIFICATE
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REI) FOR CONSULTING SERVICES FOR THE CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISION OF THE ARTERIAL ROAD BYPASS PROJECT, PHASE Ill, CONTRACT PACKAGES 1, 2 AND 4 XQGHU -,&$ /RDQ $JUHHPHQW 1R 3+ 3
TO: &/$5,7$ /,0 DQG *,1$ /,0 173 CORDILLERA NEAR CORNER ALCARAZ STREETS, STA. MESA HEIGHTS, QUEZON CITY
NOTICE OF LOSS
MT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mar. 21, 28 & Apr. 4, 2019
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND HIGHWAYS CENTRAL OFFICE Manila
Civil Case No. R-MNL-18-03801-CV )RU $QQXOPHQW RI 7LWOH &DQFHOODWLRQ RI 7LWOH DQG ,VVXDQFH RI 1HZ 7LWOH
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NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late JOSE CONRADO B. BENITEZ has been extrajudicially settled by and among his heirs as per Deed of Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate with Waiver of Rights executed on March 22, 2019 and entered as per Doc. No. 523; Page No. 106; Book No. 899; Series of 2019 of the notarial registry of $WW\ 5XEHQ 7 0 5DPLUH] QRWDU\ SXEOLF IRU DQG in Makati City.
MT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mar. 14, 21 & 28, 2019
NOTICE
M.T.-March 21 & 28, 2019
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH 28, MANILA
NOTICE OF LOSS 1RWLFH LV KHUHE\ JLYHQ WKDW 6WRFN &HUWLÂżFDWH 1R 045 issued by 6DPVXQJ (OHFWUR 0HFKDQLFV &RPSDQ\ /WG 6(0&2 to Mr. Chul Soon Kah on June 4, 2014 was declared lost as per DIÂżGDYLW RI ORVV H[HFXWHG E\ -RQJ :RR /LP &KLHI )LQDQFH 2IÂżFHU RI 6(0&2 RQ )HEUXDU\ 7, 2019 and acknowledged as Doc. No. 179 on Page No. 037 of Book No. 121 Series of 2019 before Atty. Dante M. Manguiat, a notary public for and in Pasig City.
Notice is hereby given that XIANGFA REALTY, INC. (Owner/Developer), KDV ÂżOHG ZLWK WKLV %RDUG IRU the sale of condominium units at HONGFA TOWER located at Jaboneros corner Camba St., Binondo, Manila, described as Lots No. 1, del Block No. 1856, de la Medicion Cadastral de la Ciudad de Manila, TCT No. 002-2018000922 with a total area of 559.10 square meters.
(SGD.) ATTY. NORMAN JACINTO P. DORAL 2IÂżFHU LQ &KDUJH
MT - Mar. 28, 2019
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MT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mar. 21, 28 & Apr. 4, 2019
ORDER Upon consideration of the Registration Statement and other papers and documents attached thereto which were ÂżOHG RQ EHKDOI RI CENTURY PROPERTIES GROUP, INC. the Commission resolved its meeting of March 21, 2019 to render effective the same for the registration of its 7ZR %LOOLRQ 3HVRV (P2,000,000,000.00) with an 2YHUVXEVFULSWLRQ 2SWLRQ RI XS WR 2QH %LOOLRQ 3HVRV 3 )L[HG 5DWH <HDU %RQGV due on 2022 at 7.8203% p.a.
Ë&#x153; The Manila Times
$VVLVWDQW 6HFUHWDU\ 0$;,02 / &$59$-$/ Chairperson, BAC for Consulting Services Department of Public Works and Highways *URXQG )ORRU '3:+ &HQWUDO 2IÂżFH Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila Tel No. (+632) 304-3226 (+632) 304-3076 (SGD.) MAXIMO L. CARVAJAL Assistant Secretary Chairperson, BAC for Consulting Services MT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mar. 28, 2019
ERRORS & OMISSIONS Any incorrect advertisement published in The Manila Times Classified Ads must be brought to our attention on the same day the advertisement came out. We will not be held liable for any incorrect ads not reported to us immediately.
IN THE MATTER OF THE DECLARATION OF PRESUMPTIVE DEATH OF KRISTINE SALAS CRUZ, CIVIL CASE NO. R-QZN-19-01428-CV CONRAD CRUZ, Petitioner. x-----------------------------x ORDER & NOTICE OF HEARING 7KLV LV D YHULÂżHG SHWLWLRQ IRU GHFODUDWLRQ RI SUHVXPSWLYH GHDWK ÂżOHG E\ &RQUDG &UX], alleging inter alia that: the petitioner was married to Kristine Anne C. Salas on March 27, 2006 in civil rites; the\ KDYH D VRQ QDPH -RVK &RQUDG -DPHV 6DODV &UX] ZKR ZDV ERUQ on May 21, 2006; petitioner and Kristine both worked on a cruise liner where they fell in love; the petitioner was a Sommelier or wine steward and Kristine was a bartender server; WKH\ FRQWLQXHG WR ZRUN RQ D FUXLVH OLQHU XQWLO 'HFHPEHU ZKHQ .ULVWLQH ÂżJXUHG in a â&#x20AC;&#x153;man overboardâ&#x20AC;? incident; she was not found since and was declared missing since then; Kristine was last employed at Celebrity Cruises, Inc. 1050 Caribbean Way, Miami. )ORULGD ZLWK D 3KLOLSSLQH RIÂżFH RQERDUG &HOHEULW\ 6XPPLW D SDVVHQJHU FUXLVH ship where Kristine went on board in 2011; it was the eve of Christmas day, there were a lot of merrymaking on board as the cruise ship left San Juan, Puerto Rico on its way to Barbados for the continuation of its Caribbean Sea cruise; Celebrity Summit left the San Juan Port before 00:26 am of December 25, 2011 on a clear night with good visibility at a speed of 1403 kts; a distress call was sounded after midnight of a man overboard; immediately after the incident was known and an emergency alarm was sounded, the Master of the ship, Captain Konstantinos Nestoroudis released two (2) lifebuoys and contacted â&#x20AC;&#x153;Serenade of the Seasâ&#x20AC;? on VHF CH 16 requesting assistance; the shipsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speed was reduced to bH DEOH WR UHVFXH DQG ÂżQG .ULVWLQH ZKR ZDV UHSRUWHG WR KDYH â&#x20AC;&#x153;jumpedâ&#x20AC;? overboard; rescue and search efforts were immediately underway; a helicopter from the U.S. Coast Guard also joined the search and rescue of Kristine; another ship M/T Torn Helvig also took part of the search and rescue operation per advice of the U.S. Coast guard of San Juan, Puerto Rico; thereafter the helicopter spotted the second lifebuoy and FRQÂżUPHG WKDW QR SHUVRQ ZDV LQVLGH; the search and rescue operation continued even after daylight broke and more personnel from Bosun and six (6) more sailors were put on thH EULGJH IRU PRUH ORRNRXW WKH 7RUQ +HOYLJ VLJKWHG DJDLQ WKH ÂżUVW OLIHEXR\ EXW QR RQH ZDs inside; the operation continued but no person was inside the lifebuoys even until 8:30 in the morning; eventually, the U.S. Coast Guard. San Juan released the Celebrity Summit from the Search and Rescue Operation; the chain of events that took place during the man overboard incident was logged and reported by the Captain Nestoroudis; after the incident, the investigation continued; Daisy Prayco, a purported witness in the incident, wrote down her statement on December 28, 2011; based on the manner by which Kristine has gone missing in the sea and her body not found, iW LV ÂżUPO\ EHOLHYHG WKDW LW ZDV impossible for her to have survived the conditions thereof; there was no way for her to have lived after falling from the ship onto the sea; even a strong swimmer is not believed capable of surviving the conditions thereof; after more than seven (7) years of diligent waiting and searching, it is believed that Kristine has passed on leaving her son and husband behind; the petitioner, before his marriage to Kristine, was able to buy and pay in full a piece of property in Sta. Maria, Bulacan covered by TCT No. T-495967 (M) and the same was registered on May 31, 2007; after Kristine went missing on 2011, the petitioner was able to acquire two (2) more real properties in Las PiĂąas covered by TCT Nos. 005 DQG WKH SHWLWLRQHU KDV ÂżOHG D FODLP IRU GHDWK EHQHÂżWV before the National Labor Relations Commission from the local company and Philippine 7UDQVPDULQH &DUULHUV ,QF WKH FRPSDQ\ VHWWOHG DQG SDLG WKH EHQHÂżWV DULVLQJ IURP WKH death of Kristine; Kristine also owns a Philamlife Insurance with Policy No. 5000140090 and was a Social Security System (SSS) member as well as Pag- IBIG member over ZKLFK KHU KXVEDQG DQG VRQ ZHUH WKH QDPHG EHQHÂżFLDULHV WKH SHWLWLRQHU QRZ VHHNV WR have Kristine Anne C. Salas declared presumptively dead considering that she has been absent for seven (7) consecutive years in accordance with Article 390 of the Civil Code of the Philippines, without prejudice to her subsequent reappearance and also for purposes RI UHPDUULDJH RI &RQUDG &UX] EHIRUH FLYLO ULWHV Wherefore, let this case be set for hearing on April 8, 2019 at 8:30 in the morning at which date and time all interested persons may appear and show cause why the petition VKRXOG QRW EH JUDQWHG DQG RU ÂżOH KLV RSSRVLWLRQ WKHUHWR ZLWKLQ ÂżIWHHQ GD\V IURP receipt of this order or from the last day of publication of this order. Let a copy of this order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines and in the province or City where Kristine Anne C. Salas resides or was last seen at the expense of the petitioner, and furnished together with a copy of the petition the 2IÂżFH RI WKH 6ROLFLWRU *HQHUDO WKH 2IÂżFH RI WKH &LW\ 3URVHFXWRU WKH /RFDO &LYLO 5HJLVWU\ RI 4XH]RQ &LW\ 3KLOLSSLQH 6WDWLVWLFV $XWKRULW\ DQG DOO NQRZQ KHLUV OHJDWHHV GHYLVHHV DQG FUHGLWRUV SO ORDERED. 4XH]RQ &LW\ 0HWUR 0DQLOD )HEUXDU\ (SGD.) ROSANNA FE ROMERO-MAGLAYA Presiding Judge
MT - Mar. 21, 28 & Apr. 4, 2019
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World
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THURSDAY March 28, 2019
B7
Cambodia PM Hun Sen slams EU, US over democracy IN response to calls from the European Union (EU) and the US for Cambodia to respect democracy and human rights, Prime Minister Hun Sen said Wednesday the Kingdom had its own laws, noting that â&#x20AC;&#x153;you eat bread and I eat rice.â&#x20AC;? The EU in February launched its six-month-long period of intensive monitoring and engagement period that could lead to the temporary suspension of Cambodiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
preferential access to the market under the Everything But Arms (EBA) trade scheme. US lawmakers have also made a move to introduce the Cambodian Trade Act 2019 in order to request the administration of President Donald Trump to review the Kingdomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Generalized System of Preferences status. The statement came a week after an EU fact-finding team ended
their two day visit to the Kingdom to discuss the EBA. The EU and the US have been demanding that the government â&#x20AC;&#x153;restore democracy and the rule of law, and respect human rights and fundamental freedoms,â&#x20AC;? referring to the dissolution of the Cambodia National Rescue Party and crackdowns on press freedom and civil society. Speaking during the 2019 Cam-
bodia Outlook Conference in Phnom Penh yesterday, Sen said Cambodia had its own laws in ensuring democracy and human rights. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your concern is not in line with us, neither does it require to be mentioned in Cambodian laws,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cambodia has its own laws different from other countries. You recognise this for other countries,
why donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you recognize this for Cambodia?â&#x20AC;? He questioned whether the world had ever seen another genocidal regime like Pol Pot and urged critics to cease applying double standards. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You recognise the system of other countries, but why donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you recognise the system in Cambodia as well,â&#x20AC;? Sen said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are too many standards in the world, but
they must respect justice and the principles of our country.â&#x20AC;? The EU team that recently visited the Kingdom consisted of members of the European Commission and the European External Action Service. In a statement issued last week, the delegation said the EU was still willing to continue political dialogue and engagement with the government. KHMER TIMES
British parliament weighs Brexit options L ONDON: British lawmakers were preparing to blow open the Brexit process and put a host of rejected options back on the table â&#x20AC;&#x201D; including keeping the UK close to the European Union (EU) or even remaining a member â&#x20AC;&#x201D; as 0RIME -INISTER 4HERESA -AY DEkANTLY INSISTED THAT Parliament should approve her twice-defeated divorce deal instead. Lawmakers are scheduled to VOTE 7EDNESDAY ON MULTIPLE lAvors of Brexit, after the House of Commons voted to wrest the parliamentary timetable away from
Mayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weakened government and hold votes on alternatives to her rejected withdrawal agreement. The largely pro-EU legislators behind the unprecedented move
HOPE TO kND A FORM OF "REXIT THAT can command a majority in Parliament. Votes are due to be held Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) on options that could include remaining in the EUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s single market and customs union, calling a new membership referendum and canceling Brexit â&#x20AC;&#x201D; all ideas that May has repeatedly rejected. They plan to see which ideas have the most support, and then hold another day of votes next WEEK TO TRY TO kND AGREEMENT ON a proposal. The government, which usually controls the scheduling of votes
in Parliament, said the lawmakersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; move â&#x20AC;&#x153;upends the balance between our democratic institutions and sets a dangerous, unpredictable precedent for the future.â&#x20AC;? The votes will not be legally binding, and Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the BBC that the government would not â&#x20AC;&#x153;precommitâ&#x20AC;? to accepting the option backed by lawmakers because they might come up with a plan that is impractical. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also possible lawmakers could support contradictory options, or none at all. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If the Commons voted for the sun to rise in the west, the govern-
ment would not be able to implement that,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The best way through this impasse is the one deal that has been negotiated with the EU that can be delivered quickly now,â&#x20AC;? Hancock said, referring to the Prime Ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s agreement. But government officials acknowledged they were no longer in control of Brexit. Mayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s authority was hanging by a thread after 30 members of her Conservative 0ARTY DEkED HER INSTRUCTIONS AND voted late Monday for Parliament to take control of the process. Three government ministers re-
India joins space race
Worldinbriefs FIRE HITS HYATT SINGAPORE SINGAPORE: About 500 people were evacuated Wednesday after a fire at a luxury hotel in downtown Singapore, but there were no injuries, emergency services officials said. Television footage showed thick black smoke billowing from the Grand Hyatt Hotel near the Orchard Road shopping district, but the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said the fire was quickly put out. The blaze involved a kitchen stove and an exhaust duct in a restaurant on the second floor, the SCDF said, adding it was extinguished by water sprinklers before firefighters arrived. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation,â&#x20AC;? it said. AFP
BIG-TIME CONTRACTOR STRANDED IN RIYADH RIYADH: Nearly two years after the collapse of the construction giant Saudi Oger rendered thousands jobless, Lebanese worker Mohammed remains stranded in limbo in Riyadh â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and desperate to avoid arrest. The demise in 2017 of the once-mighty company owned by the family of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri forced thousands of its expatriate workers to exit the kingdom without months of unpaid wages and end-of-service benefits. But many like 60-year-old Mohammed, who worked for the company for 35 years, are still stuck in Saudi Arabia. The expiration of Mohammedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residence permit makes his presence in Saudi Arabia illegal, but he is also legally barred from leaving due to an outstanding bank loan taken while he was employed. AFP
GUAIDOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WIFE TO BRING VOTES CARACAS, Venezuela: With her youthful energy and globetrotting, the 26-year-old wife of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido is emerging as a prominent figure in his campaign to bring change to the crisis-wracked country. Fabiana Rosalesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; age and informal dress, often jeans, while touring Latin America belie an inner toughness and maturity cultivated with her activist husband during violent street protests in Venezuelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital. Her husband has since claimed Venezuelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interim presidency with the support of dozens of nations including the US, setting up a standoff with President Nicolas Maduro, who refuses to step down amid what he calls an attempted coup. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Look, I am the wife of President Juan Guaido and I will accompany him on whatever route he takes, and we will overcome whatever obstacles we face as we have done through all our years together,â&#x20AC;? Rosales said during an interview in Peruâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital of Lima. AP
FORWARD MARCH
Myanmarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soldiers march in a formation during a parade to mark the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 74th Armed Forces Day in Naypyidaw. AFP PHOTO
US to return to moon in 2024 THE US plans to land astrounauts TO THE MOON WITHIN THE NEXT kVE years, Vice President Mike Pence announced. The nation had been shooting for a 2028 lunar touchdown, but â&#x20AC;&#x153;thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just not good enough,â&#x20AC;? Pence said DURING THE kFTH MEETING OF THE .Ational Space Council (NSC), which he chairs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re better than that.â&#x20AC;? 3O IT IS NOW THE OFkCIAL POLICY OF
the US to return astronauts to the surface of the moon by 2024, the vice president stressed, invoking a 21st-century space race with China and Russia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Urgency must be our watchword,â&#x20AC;? Pence said at the NSC meeting, which was held at the US Space and Rocket
Center in Huntsville, Alabama. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The United States must remain first in space in this century as in the last, not just to propel our economy and secure our nation but, above all, because the rules and values of space, like every great frontier, will be written by those who have the courage to get there first and the commitment to stay.â&#x20AC;? AFP
NEW DELHI: India on Wednesday destroyed a low-orbiting satellite in a missile test that puts the country in the space â&#x20AC;&#x153;super league,â&#x20AC;? Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. India became the fourth country after the US, Russia and China to have carried out the feat. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A while ago our scientists shot down a live satellte at a low-earth orbit,â&#x20AC;? Modi said in a rare televised address to the nation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a proud moment for India,â&#x20AC;? he added. The satellite was in orbit at 300 kilometers (185 miles). â&#x20AC;&#x153;India has registered its name in the list of space superpowers. Until now, only three countries had achieved this feat.â&#x20AC;? The satellite was in orbit at 300 kilometers (185 miles) when it was destroyed. Modi said the mission was peaceful and not designed to create â&#x20AC;&#x153;an atmosphere of warâ&#x20AC;?, adding it was â&#x20AC;&#x153;not directed against any countryâ&#x20AC;?. The announcement comes ahead of a national election in which Modi IS SEEKING A SECOND TERM IN OFkCE Voting starts April 11 and will last nearly six weeks, with close to 900 million Indians eligible to vote in the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest election. AFP
Tibet fortifies ethnic unity
7 KILLED IN YEMEN AIRSTRIKE UNITED NATIONS: A hospital in a rural area of northwest Yemen was hit by an airstrike Wednesday, killing seven people and wounding eight others, Save the Children said. The international aid organization, which supports the hospital, said in a statement sent to the Associated Press that four of those killed were children and two adults are unaccounted for. Save The Children said a missile struck a petrol station near the entrance to Kitaf rural hospital, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the city of Saada. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The missile was said to have landed within 50 meters of the facilityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main building,â&#x20AC;? it said. AP
BOEING MAKES EMERGENCY LANDING ORLANDO, Florida: A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 Max made a safe emergency landing Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) in Orlando, Florida after experiencing an engine problem, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said. The crew declared an emergency after taking off from Orlando International Airport around 2:50 p.m., and returned to the airport safely. No passengers were on board, and the aircraft was being ferried to Victorville, California where southwest is storing the airplanes. The 737 Max was grounded in the US on March 13 after a deadly crash involving a Max in Ethiopia on March 10. It was the second fatal crash involving the airplane. US airlines are allowed to shuttle the planes but cannot carry passengers. The FAA says itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investigating, but the emergency was not related to anti-stall software that is suspected as a cause of the two fatal crashes including one last year involving a plane from Indonesia. AP
signed rather than vote with the government. Almost three years after Britons voted to leave the EU, the date and terms of its departure are up in the air. Last week, the EU granted Britain a delay to the scheduled March 29 exit date, saying that if Parliament approved the proposed divorce deal, the UK would leave the EU on May 22. If not, the government has until April 12 to tell the 27 remaining EU countries what it plans to do â&#x20AC;&#x201D; leave without a deal, cancel Brexit, or propose a radically new path. AP
ARTISTIC PERFORMANCE
Totonac natives perform the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Voladoresâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (flyers) ritual during a training session at Papantla Indigenous Arts Center ahead of the Tajin Summit Festival in Papantla, Veracruz state, Mexico. The tradition has been modernized by creating a school for the flyers and incorporating legal and labor protection for its participants in order to preserve it. AFP PHOTO
TIBET has built a new type of socialist ethnic relationship featuring equality, solidarity, mutual assistance and harmony since its democratic reform 60 years ago, said a white paper released by the State Council Information Office Wednesday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tibet has fully implemented the ethnic policy of the Communist Party of China to enhance the awareness of ethnic solidarity and the sense of community of the Chinese nation, and strengthen ethnic communication and integration,â&#x20AC;? said the white paper, titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Democratic Reform in Tibet â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sixty Years On.â&#x20AC;? Over the past 60 years, the central government and all ethnic groups have been committed to the coordinated development of Tibet and the nation, it said. KHMER TIMES
US: Nothing to do with NKorea embassy raid MADRID: A US State Department spokesman says that the government had nothing to do with last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assault on the North Korean Embassy in Madrid. Spain has issued two international arrest warrants for members of a selfproclaimed human rights group that
allegedly led a mysterious attack on the North Korean Embassy on February 22 before offering data stolen during the raid to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). When asked if Washington had anything to do with the raid, US State
Department spokesman Robert Palladino said â&#x20AC;&#x153;the United States government had nothing to do with this.â&#x20AC;? He also said that â&#x20AC;&#x153;regarding the speCIkCS OF WHAT S GOING ON THE 3PANISH authorities are investigating. The investigation is still underway. For any details
on their investigation, I would have to refer you to Spanish authorities.â&#x20AC;? A Spanish court has accused an American, Mexican and South Korean of an attack on the North Korean Embassy in February, saying the FBI was offered stolen data. AP
Business Partners ηϭϬ ZĞƐƚŚĂǀĞŶ ^ƚ͘ ^ĂŶ &ƌĂŶĐŝƐĐŽ ĚĞů DŽŶƚĞ͕ ĂƌĂŶŐĂLJ ƵŶŐĂĚ YƵĞnjŽŶ ŝƚLJ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ ϭϭϬϱ dĞů EŽ͗ нϲϯϮ͘ϯϳϭ͘ϭϭϭϭ &Ădž EŽ͗ нϲϯϮ͘ϯϳϭ͘ϭϮϴϴ tĞďƐŝƚĞ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ƐďƐƉŚ͘ĐŽŵ
zĂƐŚĂŶŽ DĂůů &͘ /ŵƉĞƌŝĂů ^ƚƌĞĞƚ ĐŽƌŶĞƌ dĞƌŵŝŶĂů ZŽĂĚ ŝƚĂŶŽ͕ >ĞŐĂnjƉŝ ŝƚLJ͕ ůďĂLJ ϰϱϬϬ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ tĞďƐŝƚĞ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ůŽƚƵƐďůƵŚŽƚĞů͘ĐŽŵ
Ğ >Ă ^ĂůůĞ hŶŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJ DĞĚŝĐĂů ĞŶƚĞƌ dĞů͘ EŽ͗͘ ĂǀŝƚĞ ůŝŶĞ ;ϬϰϲͿ ϰϴϭͲϴϬϬϬ DĂŶŝůĂ ůŝŶĞ ;ϬϮͿ ϵϴϴͲϯϭϬϬ
/ŵŵĂĐƵůĂƚĞ ŽŶĐĞƉĐŝŽŶ ĐĂĚĞŵLJ / ŽŶ WůĂĐŝĚŽ ĂŵƉŽƐ ǀĞ͕͘ WŽďůĂĐŝŽŶ͕ ŝƚLJ ŽĨ ĂƐŵĂƌŝŹĂƐ͕ ĂǀŝƚĞ ϰϭϭϰ нϲϯͲϰϲͲϰϭϲͲϯϲͲϯϲ Žƌ нϲϯͲϰϲͲϴϱϬͲϯϭͲϯϭ ŝŶĨŽΛŝĐĂͲĚĂƐŵĂƌŝŶĂƐ͘ĞĚƵ͘ƉŚ ŽŽŬ ŶŽǁ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ŵLJƐƚĞƌLJŵĂŶŝůĂ͘ĐŽŵ
ϭϱϴϴ D͘,͘ ĚĞů WŝůĂƌ Žƌ͘ WĞĚƌŽ 'ŝů ^ƚƐ͕͘ DĂůĂƚĞ͕ DĂŶŝůĂ ϭϬϬϭ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ dƌƵŶŬůŝŶĞ͗ ;нϲϯϮͿ ϮϰϮͲϬϭϮϭ ǁǁǁ͘ƉĂŐĐŽƌ͘ƉŚ ͮ ǁǁǁ͘ĨĂĐĞŬ͘ĐŽŵͬƉĂŐĐŽƌ͘ƉŚ
ϵϭϮͲϵϮϴ ZĞŝŶĂ ZĞŐĞŶƚĞ ^ƚ͕͘ ŝŶŽŶĚŽ͕ DĂŶŝůĂ dĞů͘ ;ϬϮͿ ϯϴϱͲϵϵϵ ͮ ;ϬϮͿ ϮϱϮͲϭϵϵϵ DŽďŝůĞ͗ ;ϬϵϭϳͿ ϭϯϵͲϱϵϵϵ
ĞŶƚƵƌLJ ŝƚLJ DĂůů ͮ :ƵƉŝƚĞƌ ͮ LJĂůĂ DĂůůƐ dŚĞ ϯϬƚŚ ͮ >ŝďŝƐ
ZŝŐŚƚ ĂƌƐ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ dĞů͗ нϲϯϮ ϲϮϲ ϯϴϮϱ DŽď͗ нϲϯϵϭϳ ϴϰϵ ϳϮϳϰ tĞďƐŝƚĞ ͗Ͳ ŚƩƉ͗ͬͬǁǁǁ͘ƌŝŐŚƚͲĐĂƌƐ͘ĐŽŵ
WŽůĂƌŝƐ ĞŶƚĞƌ ƵŝůĚŝŶŐ͕ϯƌĚ &ůŽŽƌ͕ϰϴ WŽůĂƌŝƐ ^ƌĞĞƚ͕DĂŬĂƟ ŝƚLJ
ĚĚ͗͘ ϭϮϬϬ ZŝnjĂů ǀĞŶƵĞ džƚĞŶƐŝŽŶ͕ KůŽŶŐĂƉŽ͕ ĂŵďĂůĞƐ WŚŽŶĞ͗ ϬϵϮϵ ϯϭϰ Ϭϵϲϯ
/D^͕ D d ůĚŐ͕͘ ͘ ƌŶĂŝnj ǀĞŶƵĞ ĐŽƌ͘ &͘ ͘ ,ĂƌƌŝƐŽŶ ^ƚƌĞĞƚ͕ WĂƐĂLJ ŝƚLJ WŚŽŶĞ͗ ;ϬϮͿ ϴϯϰ ϱϳϴϯ
Ϯϴ sĂůĞŶĐŝĂ ^ƚ͕͘ ^& D͕ YƵĞnjŽŶ ŝƚLJ ϱϯϯͲϯϭϭϴ ͮ ůŬƚĂĚǀĞƌƟƐŝŶŐΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ 'Ğƚ hŶůŝŵŝƚĞĚ >ŝƐƟŶŐƐ͕ hŶůŝŵŝƚĞĚ >ĞĂĚƐ ĂŶĚ ZĞĂů ƐƚĂƚĞ ZD ĨŽƌ &Z ͘
d͗ ϰϱϬͲϭϮͲϭϯ dK ϭϱ ͮ ͗ ŬĞŶƐƚĂƌƚƌĂǀĞůΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ ͗ ϲϬϬ EĂŬƉŝů ^ƚ͘ DĂůĂƚĞ͕ DĂŶŝůĂ ͮ &ĂĐĞŬ͗ <ĞŶƐƚĂƌ dƌĂǀĞů
ǁǁǁ͘ŚŽƵƐĂů͘ĐŽŵ ͮ DŽďŝůĞ͗ ;нϲϯͿ ϵϭϳ ϳϳϭ ϳϭϳϭ ͮ ŝŶĨŽΛŚŽƵƐĂů͘ĐŽŵ
ϮŶĚ &ůŽŽƌ͕ &ŽƌĂ DĂůů dĂŐĂLJƚĂLJ ͮ ϬϵϬϵ͘ϴϮϳ͘ϰϮϴϳ ͮ ϬϵϮϳ͘ϱϱϯ͘ϲϰϴϱ D ZZ/Kdd ,Kd >^ dZ s > Z/>>/ Ed>z ůĂƌŬ DĂƌƌŝŽƩ ,ŽƚĞů ͮ ϱϰϬϬ DĂŶƵĞů ͘ ZŽdžĂƐ ,ŝŐŚǁĂLJ͕ ůĂƌŬ &ƌĞĞƉŽƌƚ ŽŶĞ͕ WĂŵƉĂŶŐĂ͕ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ ϮϬϮϯ
ϰƚŚ >ĞǀĞů dǁŽ Ͳ Žŵ ĞŶƚĞƌ͕ KĐĞĂŶ ƌŝǀĞ DĂůů ŽĨ ƐŝĂ ŽŵƉůĞdž͕ WĂƐĂLJ ŝƚLJ dĞů͘ нϲϯϮ ϴϳϰϴϴϴϴ DŽďŝůĞ͗ нϲϯϵϭϳϮϰϯϴϬϬϬ ǁǁǁ͘ůĂũĞƵŶĞƐƐĞ͘ƉŚ ĚĚƌĞƐƐ͗ ϮϭϬϴ D͘, Ğů WŝůĂƌ͕ DĂůĂƚĞ͕ DĂŶŝůĂ dĞů͘ EŽ͗͘ ;ϬϮͿ ϱϮϲ Ϭ ϴϴϴͬ ϱϱϵ ϵ ϴϵϬ DŽďŝůĞ͗ ϬϵϭϳͲϱϵϱͲϴϬϲϬ ŵĂŝů͗ ƌĞƐĞƌǀĂƟŽŶΛĂƌŵĂĚĂŵĂŶŝůĂ͘ĐŽŵ ͮ tĞďƐŝƚĞ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ĂƌŵĂĚĂŵĂŶŝůĂ͘ĐŽŵ WĞŶƚŚŽƵƐĞ͕ ůĂďĂŶŐ ŽƌƉŽƌĂƚĞ ĞŶƚĞƌ <D Ϯϱ tĞƐƚ ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ ZŽĂĚ ůĂďĂŶŐ͕ DƵŶƟŶůƵƉĂ ŝƚLJ͕ ϭϳϳϬ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ ;ϬϮͿ ϴϱϲͲϳϳϬϬ ͮ ϴϴϲͲϲϵϭϲ ŝŶĨŽΛƋƵĂŶƟƚLJƐŽůƵƟŽŶ͘ĐŽŵ ǁǁǁ͘ƋƵĂŶƟƚLJƐŽůƵƟŽŶ͘ĐŽŵ
ϱ& &ĞůŝnjĂ ůĚŐ͕͘ s͘ ͘ ZƵĮŶŽ ^ƚ͕͘ >ĞŐĂƐƉŝ sŝůůĂŐĞ͕ DĂŬĂƟ ŝƚLJ͕ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ ϭϮϮϵ ͮ н ϲϯ Ϯ ϳϱϭ ϰϵϮϵ
d͗ ;нϲϯϮͿ ϵϳϱ ϮϮϭϱ D͗ ;нϲϯͿ ϵϭϳ ϴϰϭ Ϯϴϴϯ t͗ ŬŵĐŵĂŐŐƌŽƵƉ͘ĐŽŵ ϱƚŚ &ůŽŽƌ͕ D'& ŚĂŵƉĂĐĂ ůĚŐ͘ ϭϱϲ ŵŽƌƐŽůŽ ^ƚƌĞĞƚ͕ >ĞŐĂƐƉŝ sŝůůĂŐĞ͕ DĂŬĂƟ ŝƚLJ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ͕ ϭϮϮϵ ,ŽƚůŝŶĞ͗ нϲϯ ;ϬϮͿ ϴϭϳͲϯϮϮϯ ͮ ǁǁǁ͘ĚĞƌŵĐůŝŶŝĐ͘ĐŽŵ͘ƉŚ
ϳϬϲ ^ŚĂǁ ŽƵůĞǀĂƌĚ WĂƐŝŐ ŝƚLJ dĞů͗͘ н ϲϯ Ϯ ϯϭϴ ϱϴϴϴ ǁǁǁ͘ƉƌŝǀĂƚŽŚŽƚĞů͘ĐŽŵ
sŝĂ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ dƌĂǀĞů ŽƌƉŽƌĂƟŽŶ ϰ& &ŝǀĞ ͲĐŽŵ ĞŶƚĞƌ ůĚŐ͕͘ WĂĐŝĮĐ ƌŝǀĞ͕ DĂůů ŽĨ ƐŝĂ ŽŵƉůĞdž͕ ϭϯϬϬ WĂƐĂLJ ŝƚLJ
dĞů͘ EŽ͘ ;ϬϮͿ ϱϱϱ͘ϵ͘ϰϰϰ ͮ ŚƩƉ͗ͬͬƉŚ͘ǀŝĂ͘ĐŽŵ
ϰϱϲ hŶŝƚĞĚ EĂƟŽŶƐ ǀĞ͕͘ ƌŵŝƚĂ͕ DĂŶŝůĂ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ
ϭϭͬ& ^ƵŶ >ŝĨĞ ĞŶƚƌĞ͕ ϱƚŚ ǀĞŶƵĞ ŽƌŶĞƌ ZŝnjĂů ƌŝǀĞ ŽŶŝĨĂĐŝŽ 'ůŽďĂů ŝƚLJ͕ dĂŐƵŝŐ͕ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ͕ ϭϲϯϰ
ϭϬϯ &͘ ĂůĚĞƌŽŶ ^ƚ͕ ĂŐƵŝŽ͕ ĞŶŐƵĞƚ >ĂŶĚůŝŶĞ ͗ ;ϬϳϰͿ ϰϰϮ ϳϬϲϲ ͬ ϰϰϮͲϴϲϰϱ DŽďŝůĞ͗ ;ŐůŽďĞͿ ϬϵϮϲϳϯϱϴϴϰϬ ͬ ;ƐŵĂƌƚͿ ϬϵϭϴϯϬϰϳϯϭϱ ͬ ;ƐƵŶĐĞůůͿ ϬϵϯϯϱϴϬϰϲϳϭ ŵĂŝů͗ ďĞŶŐƵĞƚƉƌŝŵĞŚŽƚĞůΛLJĂŚŽŽ͘ĐŽŵ
^ŵĂůůǀŝůůĞ ŽŵƉůĞdž͕ ƋƵŝŶŽ ǀĞ͕͘ ^ĂŶ ZĂĨĂĞů͕ /ůŽŝůŽ ŝƚLJ ; ĂƉŝƚĂůͿ͕ /ůŽŝůŽ͕ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ ϱϬϬϬ EŽ͘ ;ϬϯϯͿͲϯϮϬͲϳϵϳϮ ͬ нϲϯϵϱϱϯϲϰϮϴϱϲ ͬ нϲϯϵϮϭϴϬϬϵϵϲϰ ͬ нϲϯϵϮϵϱϯϴϲϯϱϵ ͗ ŝůŽďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐŚŽƚĞůΛLJĂŚŽŽ͘ĐŽŵ͘ƉŚ ͬ ŝůŽŝůŽďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐŚŽƚĞůΛLJĂŚŽŽ͘ĐŽŵ͘ƉŚ tĞĚƐŝƚĞ ͬ &ď WĂŐĞ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ŝůŽŝůŽďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐŚŽƚĞů͘ĐŽŵ͘ƉŚ ͬ ŚƩƉƐ͗ͬͬǁǁǁ͘ĨĂĐĞŬ͘ĐŽŵͬ ŝďŚ͘ůŽĐŬŚĞĂƌƚ ͬ ŚƩƉƐ͗ͬͬǁǁǁ͘ĨĂĐĞŬ͘ĐŽŵͬ/ůŽŝůŽ ƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ,ŽƚĞůͬ ,ŽƚĞů <ŝŵďĞƌůLJ dĂŐĂLJƚĂLJ ƌŝƐĂŶƚŽ D͘ ĞůŽƐ ZĞLJĞƐ ǀĞ͘ ;ĨŽƌŵĞƌůLJ ŵĂĚĞŽ ZĚ͘Ϳ ƌŐLJ͘ <ĂLJďĂŐĂů EŽƌƚŚ͕ dĂŐĂLJƚĂLJ ŝƚLJ dĞů͘ ;ϬϰϲͿ ϰϴϯͲϴϴϴϴ ͮ ͗ ƚĂŐĂLJƚĂLJΛŚŽƚĞůŬŝŵďĞƌůLJ͘ĐŽŵ
ŽŶƐƚƌƵĐƟŽŶ ŽƐƚ ƐƟŵĂƟŶŐ WƌŽĐƵƌĞŵĞŶƚ WƌŽũĞĐƚ DĂŶĂŐĞŵĞŶƚ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌŝŶŐ
BAYVIEW BARBER SHOP AND REFLEXOLOGY
'ƌĞĞŶ ĞĂĐŚ ϭ͕ ZĞĚŽŶĚŽ WĞŶŝŶƐƵůĂ͕ ƌŐLJ ĂǁĂŐ͕ ^ƵďŝĐ ĂLJ &ƌĞĞƉŽƌƚ ŽŶĞ͕ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ ϮϮϮϮ dĞů EŽ͗͘ ;ϬϰϳͿ ϯϬϲ ϱϭϬϬ ͮ &Ădž EŽ͗͘ ;ϬϰϳͿ ϮϱϮ ϮϳϬϮ
D /E K&&/ ͗ Zŵ͘ ϮϬϱ ĂŶƚĞ ͘ ŶŐ Θ ƐƐŽĐŝĂƚĞƐ ůĚŐ͘ ϰϬϵ ͘ ^ŽƌŝĂŶŽ ǀĞ͕͘ /ŶƚƌĂŵƵƌŽƐ͕ DĂŶŝůĂ͕ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ ǁǁǁ͘ǀŝĐƚŽƌƐĨƌĞŝŐŚƚ͘ƉŚ ͮ dĞů͗ ;ϬϮͿ ϱϮϰͲϭϮϬϮ͕ ϱϮϯͲϭϱϴϲ͕ ϱϮϯͲϰϯϴϲ͕ ϱϮϱͲϴϴϬϱ͕ ϱϮϴͲϬϱϭϳ͕ ϱϮϴͲϬϰϭϮ
,ŽƚĞů <ŝŵďĞƌůLJ DĂŶŝůĂ ϳϳϬ WĞĚƌŽ 'ŝů ^ƚƌĞĞƚ DĂůĂƚĞ͕ DĂŶŝůĂ dĞů͘ ;ϬϮͿ ϱϮϭͲϭϴϴϴ ĞŵĂŝů͗ ŵĂŶŝůĂΛŚŽƚĞůŬŝŵďĞƌůLJ͘ĐŽŵ tĞďƐŝƚĞ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ŚŽƚĞůŬŝŵďĞƌůLJ͘ĐŽŵ
dĞůƐ͘ ϱϮϭͲϯϬͲϴϱ ϱϮϰͲϬϳͲϮϮ Ğůů EŽ͗͘ ;ϬϵϭϴͿ ϱϯϱͲϬϰͲϵϵ
D E/> ͗ ϱƚŚ &͘ dŝŵĞƐ WůĂnjĂ ůĚŐ͘ dĂŌ ĐŽƌ͘ h͘E͘ ǀĞ͕͘ ƌŵŝƚĂ͕ ϬϳϮ ƌŐ͘ ϲϲϲ DĂŶŝůĂ ;ϬϮͿ ϯϱϯͲϲϴϬϴ W ^ z͗ ^ĐĂƉĞ ůĚŐ͕͘ DĂĐĂƉĂŐĂů ǀĞ͘ ĐŽƌ͘ WĞĂƌů ƌŝǀĞ͕ ĞŶƚƌĂů ƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ WĂƌŬ ϭ͕ ^ĂŶ ZĂĨĂĞů͕ ƌŐ͘ ϳϲ WĂƐĂLJ ŝƚLJ ͮ ;ϬϮͿ ϱϰϭͲϱϲϰϱ
ĚĚƌĞƐƐ͗ ϭϬϭ DĂƌďĞůůĂ ϭ ŽŶĚŽŵŝŶŝƵŵ͕ ϮϮϮϯ ZŽdžĂƐ ŽƵůĞǀĂƌĚ͕ ϭϯϬϬ WĂƐĂLJ ŝƚLJ͕ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ
KZd/' ^͗ hŶŝƚ ϭϲͬϭϴͬϭϵͬϮϬ 'ƌŽƵŶĚ & / 'ƌĂŶĚĞ dŽǁĞƌ ^ĂƉƉŚŝƌĞ ZĚ͕͘ KƌƟŐĂƐ ĞŶƚĞƌ WĂƐŝŐ ŝƚLJ ͮ ;ϬϮͿ ϱϴϰͲϮϰϯϬ
ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ĞƚĂŝůƐ͗ DŽďŝůĞ EŽ͘ Ͳ ;нϲϯͿ ϵϭϴͲϴϰϱͲϬϬϬϴ >ĂŶĚůŝŶĞ Ͳ ;нϲϯϮͿ ϱϱϭͲϴϴϴϴ
h z Z' d ͗ >ĞǀĞů ϯ͕ Zŵ͘ ϬϬϯϬϵ Θ ϬϬϯϬϮ ZŽďŝŶƐŽŶƐ LJďĞƌŐĂƚĞ͕ ŽŶ '͘ 'ĂƌĐŝĂ ^ƚ͕͘ ĂƉŝƚŽů ^ŝƚĞ͕ ĞďƵ ŝƚLJ ͮ ;ϬϯϮͿ ϮϯϲͲϵϬϮϴ
EKZd, ^ ͗ ϮŶĚ &͘ WŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞ ŽůůĞŐĞ ŽĨ ^ƵƌŐĞŽŶƐ ůĚŐ͕͘ ϵϵϮ ^ YƵĞnjŽŶ ŝƚLJ ;ϬϮͿ ϯϱϮͲϰϲϳϲ ^d ZK^ ͗ ϮŶĚ &͘ hŶŝƚƐ ϱͲϵ ĂƌǀĂũĂů ůĚŐ͘ Ϯ͕ ƌŐ͘ DĂĐĂďůŝŶŐ͕ EĂƚŝŽŶĂů ,ŝŐŚǁĂLJ͕ ^ƚĂ͘ ZŽƐĂ >ĂŐƵŶĂ ͮ ;ϬϮͿ ϱϭϵͲϰϯϳϳ h /d W Z<͗ hŶŝƚƐ ϮϬϯ ϮŶĚ &͘ d'h dŽǁĞƌ͕ ůŬ͘ϭ >ŽƚƐ ϲΘϳ͕ WŚĂƐĞ ϭ ƐŝĂƚŽǁŶ͕ /͘d͘ WĂƌŬ ƉĂƐ ĞďƵ ŝƚLJ ͮ ;ϬϯϮͿ ϰϳϵͲϵϮϲϭ
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Sports
TTHURSDAY MARCH 28, 2019 M
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www.manilatimes.net
Clippers, Celtics clinch playoff berths L
Q Boston Celtics’ Marcus Smart, left, and Cleveland Cavaliers’ Jordan Clarkson battle for a loose ball in the second half of an NBA basketball game on Wednesday in Cleveland. AP PHOTO
OS ANGELES: The red-hot Los Angeles Clippers clinched an NBA playoff berth on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) with their sixth win in a row, Danilo Gallinari scoring 25 points in a 122-111 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Clippers are back in the postseason after missing out last year, beCOMING THE kFTH 7ESTERN #ONFERENCE team to punch their ticket. In the East the Boston Celtics’ PLAYOFF SPOT WAS CONkRMED WITH A 106 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, coupled with the Detroit Pistons’ 9592 loss to the Denver Nuggets. Al Horford and Marcus Smart came up big for the Celtics in the fourth quarter in Cleveland. Boston were clinging to a 96-94 LEAD AT THE MARK OF THE kNAL period when the veteran Celtics duo exploded, combining to outscore the Cavaliers 15-6 over the next 4min 20sec and putting the visitors up 111-100. Smart delivered a dagger with 2:19 remaining, connecting on a layup and converting a free throw to put the Celtics up by nine.
Lower in the table the battle continued to rage for the last remaining berths, the Orlando Magic leapfrogging the Miami Heat for THE EIGHTH AND kNAL SPOT WITH A 104-99 victory at Miami. The Heat squandered an early 17 point lead and lost for the third time in four games this season against Orlando — which gives the Magic the playoff tiebreaker. The defeat spoiled Miami’s celebrations honoring former Heat star Chris Bosh, whose jersey No. 1 was retired at an emotional halftime ceremony. But more importantly it dropped the Heat out of playoff position in ninth place in the East, just one game ahead of the 10th-placed Charlotte Hornets — who downed the San Antonio Spurs 125-116 in overtime.
Kemba Walker scored 11 of his 38 points in the extra session as the Hornets notched a fourth straight win. They had lost all four of their previous overtime games this season.
Hornets ‘still trying’ Charlotte withstood a 30-point game from Spurs guard DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge’s 20 points and 15 rebounds. “This was an unbelievable team effort,” Walker said. “We executed our game plan, especially defensively, just to make it tough on DeMar and LaMarcus as much as possible.” With the regular season wind-
ing down, he called the win “super-important.” “We’ve still trying to accomplish a goal here,” he said of keeping the Hornets’ playoff hopes alive. “Anything is possible.” The Clippers’ win cemented a spot that was clearly on the cards. Lou Williams added 20 points off the bench for the Clippers, whose reserves out-scored Minnesota’s bench 53-25. The playoff-bound Rockets dropped to fourth in the West with a 108-94 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks in a game billed as a clash between Most Valuable Player candidates James harden and Giannis Anteokounmpo.
Kai Sotto vows to play for PH team THE towering 7’2 young cager Kai five basketball clubs interested will study in Spain.” immediate goal is to be physically Sotto promised to return and play to sign Sotto, namely Real 3OTTO CLARIkED THAT PLAYING IN and mentally stronger. for the Philippines anytime. Madrid, Barcelona, Baskonia, the US National Collegiate Athlet“The pressure is always there Sotto’s father, former profes- Estudiantes and Alba in Spain ic Association is not in their plan. every time I play. I cannot earn all sional player Ervin Sotto, told and Berlin in Germany. The young Sotto said that his the beautiful things if I’m not goreporters in a news conference “He needs speing to work hard and work smart. on Tuesday that that is his son’s CIkC TRAINING AND NEEDS I need to be challenged in order to unwavering commitment. to get stronger,” become a great player,” said Sotto “That’s an assurance. Itaga mo added Ervin, in separate interview. sa bato,” the elder Sotto said. “In stressing that educa“I want to play in the NBA the contract we signed with Kai, tion will remain his son's and I’m willing to give my best,” and to any club contract that we priority while training with added Sotto, who is eyeing to will sign, the number one priority ."! AFkLIATED TEAMS meet his goal in 2021 or 2022. “I is Gilas (PH National Team). Any- in the US. also want to be an inspiration to time that the Philippines needs “He will the youth.” the service of my son, expect my still go to Choose-to-Go and East West kid to be there.” school. If we 0RIVATE WILL HELP kNANCE 3OTTO S He said Kai would be rep- go to Europe, he stay in the US. JOSEF T. RAMOS resenting the country in the 2019 International Basketball Federation (FIBA) Under-19 World Cup on June 29 to July 7 in Greece, and will also be available to play for the country in any FIBA tournament, the Southeast Asian Games or the Asian Games if he will be required by the national team. Sotto, 16, will be flying to Atlanta, United States next month to pursue his dream of becoming the first Filipino homegrown player to play in the National Basketball Association. Q Kai Sotto (No. 12) displays his prowess against the Singapore team during the 2017 Southeast Asia Basketball Reports said there are Association Championship at the Araneta Coliseum. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Bosh ‘at peace’ as Heat retire his number MIAMI: Chris Bosh, who joined LeBron James and Dwyane Wade as the Miami Heat’s “Big Three” before blood clots ended his NBA career, saw his jersey No. 1 retired by the Heat on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila). Bosh turned up with his two NBA championship rings to be feted at AmericanAirlines Arena, where his jersey was raised to the rafters to hang alongside those of Heat greats Alonzo Mourning, Tim Hardaway and Shaquille O’Neal. No doubt those of Wade, James and Udonis Haslem will one day join them. In the meantime Wade, playing what he says is his final NBA season, was content to introduce Bosh during the halftime ceremony, which followed video montages of some of Bosh’s signature moments in a Heat uniform. Bosh, who turned 35 on Sunday, said that in 2016, after blood clots returned in his leg after first appearing on his
Q Former Miami Heat player Chris Bosh reacts to the crowd during his jersey retirement ceremony at halftime of the game between the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic at American Airlines Arena on Wednesday in Miami, Florida. AFP PHOTO lungs, he would not have contemplated a night like Tuesday. “I didn’t even think of retirement,” he said. “I was more so concentrated on
what was next for the team, what was next for myself, the next practice the next day, the next game, to get better. That was my mindset at the time. “For everything to happen so fast, it just shows you how things can change. “I’m humbled, I’m grateful for the experience that I’ve had here and in the league as a whole, and I have a different mindset now. “Although we all do something and we get to experience things, you’ve got to cherish it because you never know when it’s going to stop.” For a time Bosh stubbornly resisted the idea that he would have to retire, but he said that now he is “100 percent at peace” with retirement. Bosh spent his first seven seasons with the Toronto Raptors, and when he joined superstars James and Wade in Miami in 2010 he was no longer the face of a franchise. His individual stats declined as he became one of a leading trio, but the Heat contended
for titles and Heat coach Erik Spoelstra still appreciates the adjustment Bosh made. “You’re talking about somebody that was 25, 26 years old that was face of the franchise for his team that drafted him, goes into free agency, could’ve gotten full max contracts from multiple teams, but he chose to come here, sacrificed financially and — just as importantly — sacrificed a role,” Spoelstra said. Bosh said that even more than the titles, he’ll remember the camaraderie of his Heat years. “A lot of the older guys say, ‘Oh yeah, you’re going to remember the bus rides,’ and it’s true,” he said. “Because those are the times when guys are trying to figure things out, picking guys up when guys are down, usually getting through the tough moments and having those moments of vulnerability with some of the best to play the game and share those experiences — not only do that, but prevail.” AFP
4HAT SHOWDOWN kZZLED AS -ILwaukee’s Eric Bledsoe imposed himself, leading the Bucks with 23 points. Antetokounmpo added 19 points and 14 rebounds for the Bucks, but didn’t score as Milwaukee seized control in the third quarter. He didn’t need to as Bledsoe erupted on an 11-0 run of his own early in the third on the way to 16 points in the period. Harden led the Rockets with 23 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists. Clint Capela added a 17-point, 11-rebound doubledouble, and Chris Paul added 19 points and nine assists. Although the Rockets led by 11
IN THE kRST HALF ONCE -ILWAUKEE took the lead they wouldn’t relinquish it, out-scoring the Rockets 28-2 on fast-break points and 46-36 in the paint and making the most of 13 Rockets turnovers. “We got open shots, we couldn’t knock them down,” Harden said. “We competed. They went on a run in that third quarter and that was it.” Harden wasn’t discouraged, noting that with seven games left in the regular season the Rockets, after a stuttering start to the season, can still snatch the second seed in the West. “Who would have known after being in the 14th spot,” he said. AFP
NBA early summer predictions: Kevin Durant T BASKETBALL
HE NBA season is on the homestretch and the biggest story is how LeBron James, the most dominant player in the world for the better of the past decade will be on the outside looking in. With the game’s best player looking ahead, the NBA media has run amuck with predictions, scoops and fake news. There are calculated hunches on one end and wild conspiracy theories on the other. Here’s a look at what’s buzzing around the NBA stratosphere.
The future of Kevin Durant Along with LeBron’s dominance in the East, there was the biggest collaboration to beat him in the West. When the second best player in the world joined the NBA’s record breaking team, even the King had to acknowledge that he is facing a monster he can’t defeat. Kevin Durant’s decision to join the best shooting team in the NBA that already won a ring and set the highest regular season record clipped off the “favorite” tag from the Golden State Warriors and replaced it with “ridiculously unbeatable.” The rest of the league, except perhaps the Houston Rockets’ GM Daryl Morey, are left waiting for the storm from the Bay Area to end — and that might arrive this summer. Durant was a free agent last season but there was hardly any conversation about him. The tone drastically changed and it came to a head with the shouting match at the huddle between KD and Draymond Green. Green spilled the beans: The Warriors are bothered by KD’s free agency. 4HE UNOFkCIAL CONSENSUS AROUND NBA circles is that Durant is leaving. They cite various reasons: he’s gotten tired of winning (unlikely), he is frustrated at how the Warriors will always be Steph Curry’s team (likely) and in a podcast with Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports, he stated that he wants to “stack money” on his next contract.
The face of the NBA’s most valuable franchise NBA players earn more money now than just their salary for playing basketball. Michael Jordan set this tone in the 90s and the trend never slowed down. Shoe deals, endorsements, movie and TV appearances — all augment an athlete’s paycheck,
SLEUTH
MICHAEL ANGELO B. ASIS sometimes amounting even more than the player’s actual salary. Such is the case for transcendent stars like James, Durant, Curry and the like. There is a vacant space for the NBA’s money making throne, and that is being the superstar for the New York Knicks. Forbes appraised the Knicks as the most valuable NBA franchise for several years in a row. Even the Lakers are just second. Simply being in the top markets is enough to drive up the price. As the old saying goes, the key to big business is “Location, location, location.” If Durant is offered the reins of the Big Apple, Madison Square Garden’s savior — that may just be too tempting to refuse. No matter his stats or awards, Finals MVP or what not, the Warriors are Curry’s team and he is the face of the Bay Area. This summer, KD will get the chance to take over New York AND pick a sidekick with their cap space. Suddenly, it all makes sense to leave a (possible) three-time defending champion team, and Durant is now rising to tycoon status in the same way LeBron did before him.
One big clue Ideally, the bond between athletes and agents should be close to brotherhood. A seamless partnership could make top athletes and agencies even more powerful than they already are. In the NBA, the model — again — is LeBron James and Rich Paul. Durant has a similar bond with Rich Kleiman. Kleiman doesn’t consider KD as just a client — he is a business partner and they even referred to each other as “brothers.” Sounds familiar. James moved his business Headquarters to LA in the summer of 2017. Then came the house purchase, the kids enrolling in an LA school. Now, LeBron is a Laker. In a case of Déjà vu, KD, with partner Kleiman recently moved their Thirty Five Ventures HQ to New York last February. Take a lucky guess on how this story ends. Next: Twice Upon A Time in Hollywood?
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Sports
Ë&#x153; The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
Golden Tigresses shred Adamson U BY JEREMIAH M. SEVILLA
NIVERSITY of Sto. Tomas (UST) made short work of cellar-dweller Adamson University, 25-15, 25-12, 25-16, as it reclaims its winning form in Season 81 University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s volleyball on Wednesday at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City. The Golden Tigresses banked on a balanced attack as they bounced back from a painful 25-19, 25-22, 25-27, 22-25, 11-15 loss to idle leader Ateneo De Manila University. UST climbed to No. 2 with an improved 6-3 record. A win by defending champion De La Salle University (5-3) over National University (2-6) at press time will forge a two-way tie at the second spot. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are happy because our standing is still good,â&#x20AC;? said UST head coach Kungfu Reyes, whose Tigresses also notched a repeat of its 25-21, 25-21, 24-26, 24-26, 2426, 15-6 win over the Lady Falcons IN THE kRST ROUND Rookie spiker Eya Laure sizzled with a game-high 17 points anchored
on 15 attacks and two blocks. But it was third-year middle blocker Caitlyn Viray who shone the brightest with her career-best 14 markers highlighted by nine blocks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m glad I was able to provide support for them (Laure and Sisi Rondina),â&#x20AC;? said Viray. Dimdim Pacres added 12 points while graduating skipper Rondina only contributed 10 markers this time following her league record-tying 35 points in the previous outing. Pacres scored on a soft touch as UST coasted to an early 18-11 lead EN ROUTE TO AN EASY kRST SET VICTORY After trailing 3-6, Rondina, Laure and Viray joined forces to spark a 22-5 blast, giving the Tigresses a comfortable two-set advantage.
UST sustained its blazing offense from then on to post the striking rebound win. No Adamson player scored in double figures with Joy Dacoron kNISHING WITH A MEASLY EIGHT POINTS The tough-luck Lady Falcons plummeted to their fifth consecutive defeat for an overall 1-8 slate. In the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s division earlier, reigning titlist National U seized the solo lead after thrashing University of the East, 25-7, 25-21, 25-15. Ace spiker Bryan Bagunas pumped in 22 points on 15 kills, four aces and three blocks to carry the Bulldogs past erstwhile co-leader Far Eastern University with their eighth straight win against a season-opening loss. The No. 7 Red Warriors, who had Clifford Inoferio as the top scorer with six markers, suffered their second straight defeat and an overall 2-7 card. Ateneo crushed archrival La Salle, 25-22, 25-20, 2520, to tighten its grip of No. 3. Antony Koyfman erupted for 22 points while Ron Medalla and Chumason Njigha added 14 and
Q USTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sisi Rondina (No. 16) blocks Adamsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Joy Dacoron (No. 5) during a UAAP womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s volleyball game on Wednesday at the Fil Oil Flying V Centre in San Juan City. PHOTO BY ROGER RAĂ&#x2018;ADA 13 markers, respectively, to power Chris Bernard Dumago was the the Green Spikers, who fell to No. the Blue Spikers to 6-3. lone bright spot with 15 points for 6 with 3-6 sheet.
6 PSL tankers ready for Phuket action Conor McGregor under THE Philippine Swimming League (PSL) will be parading six young promising tankers in the 2019 Thanyapura International Swimming Championship slated on March 29 to April 2 at the Thanyapura Swimming Pool in Phuket, Thailand. Reigning Male Swimmer of the Year Marc Bryan Dula of Masville Elementary School-ParaĂąaque will be leading the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campaign in the four-day meet that drew more than 800 tankers from different parts of the region. Dula, a veteran of international competitions, is fresh from a successful campaign in the 2019 Batang Pinoy Luzon Qualifying held in Isabela. He swept all his five events to become the tournamentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Bemedalled Athlete. The Phuket meet also serves a Dulaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s build up for the 2019 Palarong Pambansa scheduled next month in Davao City. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good opportunity for me to further hone my skills in preparation for the Palarong Pambansa next month.
Q Philippine Swimming League standouts Marc Bryan Dula, Jenn Albreicht Sermonia, John Paul Salibio, Albert Sermonia II and Maika Montecillo pose for a photo with coach Alex Papa before they fly to the 2019 Thanyapura International Swimming Championship slated on March 29 to April 2 at the Thanyapura Swimming Pool in Phuket, Thailand. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m ready and at the same time excited and extra motivated since we are all swimming here for coach Susan Papa. We want to dedicate this campaign to her,â&#x20AC;? said Dula, who will see action in
the boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 11-12 category. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My focus right now is this Phuket competition since I am now representing not only my school, my city but our country. I will do my best to bring honor
to our country again,â&#x20AC;? added Dula. Joining Dula in the team are Trump Christian Luistro of Hope Christian School-Legazpi (boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 9-10), Diliman Preparatory School standouts Jenn Albreicht Sermonia (girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 9-10), John Paul Salibio (boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 15-17) and Albert Sermonia II (boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 13-14), as well as Dipolog City pride Mary Maika Montecillo (girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 9-10), who also expected to deliver gold medals in their respective age-groups. Veteran coach Alex Papa will mentor the team along with assistant coaches Luisito Luistro and Jen Sermonia. The team left for Phuket on Wednesday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These kids have trained hard for this competition. These are the product of our grassroots development program in the PSL. A few years ago, they started as beginners and now, they are ready to compete against their foreign counterparts. We are looking forward to another victorious campaign in Thailand,â&#x20AC;? PSL president Susan Papa said. EMIL C. NOGUERA
Kvitova â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;glad itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; after attacker sentenced
MIAMI: Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova says she was happy to learn that the man who attacked her with a knife at her Czech home in 2016 had been sentenced to eight years in prison. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I heard that this morning,â&#x20AC;? Kvitova said after falling to Australian Ashleigh Barty in THREE SETS IN THE QUARTER kNALS OF THE -IAMI /PEN IN A MATCH THAT kNISHED AFTER MIDNIGHT thanks to a lengthy Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) night rain delay. The 33-year-old Radim Zondra, who is currently in prison for another crime, was sentenced on charges of serious battery and illegal ENTRY INTO +VITOVA S lAT IN $ECEMBER OF Eva Angyalossy, a spokeswoman for the regional court in the southern Czech city of Brno, told Agence France-Presse that Zondra, who pleaded not guilty had two weeks to appeal the verdict. Kvitova, 29, said she was glad to put the incident further behind her. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am happy for the news and I am glad that it is over,â&#x20AC;? she said. Kvitova suffered career-threatening injuries to her playing left hand as she fought off the intruder at her home in the eastern Czech town of Prostejov. Despite grim forecasts by doctors, who EVEN WARNED SHE MIGHT LOSE HER kNGERS THE 2011 and 2014 Wimbledon champion has recovered and continued her successful career. After slipping to as low as 29th in the world after the attack, Kvitova entered the Miami Open ranked second in the world, having REACHED THE !USTRALIAN /PEN kNAL IN *ANUARY Her hopes of overtaking Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Naomi Osaka atop the rankings in Miami, however, ended with her loss to Barty. AFP
investigation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; report NEW YORK: Mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor is under investigation in his native Ireland on an accusation of sexual assault, the New York Times reported Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila). The report, in which the Times cited four unnamed sources, came a day after the trash-talking star of the Ultimate Fighting Championship wrote on Twitter that he had decided to retire from his career inside the octagon. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hey guys quick announcement, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve decided to retire from the sport formally known as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mixed Martial Artâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; today,â&#x20AC;? McGregor wrote. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wish all my old colleagues well going forward in competition.â&#x20AC;? The New York Times noted that McGregor has not been charged with a crime and the fact that an investigation is continuing â&#x20AC;&#x153;does not imply that McGregor is guilty of a crime.â&#x20AC;? But the newspaper said he had been questioned by law enforcement authorities in January after a woman accused him of sexual assault in December. A spokesman for Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s police service would not confirm to the newspaper that McGregor was a suspect in the alleged assault. The woman making the accusation said it occurred at the Beacon Hotel, where McGregor has been an occasional guest, according to the Times. McGregor and the UFC have not commented on the allegations. Karen J. Kessler, a publicist for McGregor based in New Jer-
sey, issued a statement that said the Times report and McGregorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s retirement were not related. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This story has been circulating for some time and it is unclear why it is being reported now,â&#x20AC;? the statement said in part. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The assumption that the Conor retirement announcement today is related to this rumor is absolutely false.â&#x20AC;? The Dubliner, one of the most bankable stars in UFC, had previously vowed to retire in 2016 in a move that was widely seen as a negotiating gambit. The 30-year-old has not fought since being well beaten by rival Khabib Nurmagomedov in October of last year. McGregor was later handed a six-month suspension for his ROLE IN A POST kGHT MELEE AFTER the Nurmagomedov bout, a ban that would have left him eligible TO kGHT AGAIN IN EARLY !PRIL He was arrested in Miami earlier this month after allegedly smashing a phone outside a Florida nightclub. He was later charged with criminal mischief and strongarmed robbery after police said he had slapped the phone out of a fanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hand and then stomped on it. McGregor was also arrested last year in New York after police said he attacked a charter bus carrying several rival martial arts fighters. Video footage of the altercation showed McGregor throwing a steel dolly through a AFP window of the bus.
Q Mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor poses for cameras following a news conference on October 4, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. AFP PHOTO
Ë&#x153; The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
SuBIT gets added prestige 4(% .44 !34# 3UBIC "AY )NTERNATIONAL 4RIATHLON 3U")4 !SIAN #UP SLATED ON !PRIL AND GAINED MORE PRESTIGE AS IT USH ERS IN THE /NE "ELT /NE 2OAD 4RIATHLON SERIES 4HIS ARRANGEMENT HIGHLIGHTS THE ENDURING RELATIONSHIP FOR DECADES BETWEEN THE 4RIATHLON !SSOCIATION OF THE 0HILIPPINES 42!0 THE #HINESE 4AIPEI 4RIATHLON !SSOCIA TION #44! AND THE #HINA 4RIATH LON 3PORTS !SSOCIATION #43! &URTHER #43! FOR THIS YEAR WILL DISPATCH THE #HINESE NA TIONAL TEAM TO COMPETE IN THE 3U")4 WITH 42!0 RECIPROCATING WITH A TEAM OF TRIATHLETES SEEING ACTION IN THE ,IANYUNGANG !34# 4RIATHLON !SIAN #UP AND *IAYUGUAN !34# 4RIATHLON !SIAN #UP 4HE LATTER EVENTS SERVE AS THE SECOND AND THIRD LEGS OF THE /NE "ELT /NE 2OAD 4RIATHLON SERIES g&OR THE PAST YEARS 42!0 AND #43! HAVE BEEN KEEPING A GOOD RELATIONSHIP AND COMMUNICATION 4HANKS FOR THE INVITATION AND HELP FROM 42!0 #HINESE .ATIONAL 4RIATHLON 4EAMS PARTICIPATED IN 3UBIC "AY !34# 4RIATHLON !SIAN #UPS FOR MANY TIMES AND GOT GOOD RESULTS -EANWHILE OUR TWO NATIONAL FEDERATIONS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN SUPPORTING EACH OTHER DUR ING !34# #ONGRESS ELECTIONS AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES u #43! 3ECRETARY 'ENERAL #HEN 8IAORAN SAID &OR ITS PART THE #44! IS SEND ING THE #HINESE 4AIPEI NATIONAL TEAM AND A GOOD NUMBER OF AGE GROUPERS TO THE 3U")4 2EGISTRATION FOR THE 3U")4 IS ONGOING WITH ENTRY FEES NOW SET AT 0 PER PARTICIPANT FOR 3TANDARD $ISTANCE 0 FOR 3PRINT $ISTANCE 0 FOR 3UPER 3PRINT $ISTANCE AND 0 FOR 4EAM 2ELAY ,IST UP ENDS ON -ARCH OR EARLIER WHEN ALL SLOTS HAVE BEEN kLLED UP /NLINE REGISTRATION CAN BE DONE AT HTTPS REGONLINE AC TIVEGLOBAL COM SUBIT /RGANIZED BY THE 42!0 IN COOPERATION WITH THE 3UBIC "AY -ETROPOLITAN !UTHORITY 4OURISM $EPARTMENT THE .44 !34# 3UBIC "AY )NTERNA TIONAL 4RIATHLON 3U")4 !SIAN #UP IS SUPPORTED BY 0HILIPPINE 3PORTS #OMMISSION .44 0HIL IPPINE /LYMPIC #OMMITTEE 3TANDARD )NSURANCE !SIAN #EN TRE FOR )NSULATION 0HILIPPINES AND 'ATORADE &OR DETAILS VISIT 4RIATHLON ORG PH OR SEND EMAIL AT TRAPSECRE TARIAT GMAIL COM
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
C3
McIlroy counts on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;little thingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; with No. 1 on horizon L Q Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland waves after putting on the 18th green during Round Two of the 94th PGA Championship at the Ocean Course on August 10, 2018 in Kiawah Island, South Carolina. AFP PHOTO
OS ANGELES: Northern Ireland star Rory McIlroy says he canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to focus on a possible return to world No. 1 as he prepares for this weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s WGCDell Match Play.
- C ) L R OY S A I D H E WON T EVEN ALLOW HIMSELF TO PONDER THE POSSIBILITY OF A LAST CLASH WITH 4IGER 7OODS PREFERRING TO CONCEN TRATE ON THE POOL MATCHES HE MUST GET THROUGH TO SET UP A POSSIBLE MEETING WITH THE TIME MAJOR CHAMPION g4HERE S A LONG WAY TO GO u -C)LROY TOLD REPORTERS IN !USTIN 4EXAS WHERE THE EVENT TEES OFF ON 7EDNESDAY 4HURSDAY IN -ANILA -C)LROY WILL OPEN AGAINST BIG HITTING !MERICAN ,UKE ,IST IN A GROUP THAT ALSO INCLUDES %NGLAND S -ATTHEW &ITZPATRICK AND 3OUTH !FRICAN *USTIN (ARDING -C)LROY SAID THAT HE D TEXTED
&ITZPATRICK WITH A SIMPLE AIM WHEN HE SAW THEY WERE IN THE SAME GROUP gLET S MAKE SURE WE BOTH HAVE SOMETHING TO PLAY FOR WHEN WE PLAY EACH OTHER IN THE LAST POOL GAME ON &RI DAY u -C)LROY TOLD HIM g4HAT S HONESTLY AS FAR AS ) VE THOUGHT AHEAD u -C)LROY A FOUR TIME MAJOR CHAMPION COM ING OFF A VICTORY AT THE 0LAYERS #HAMPIONSHIP TWO WEEKS AGO COULD JUMP FROM FOURTH BACK TO NUMBER ONE IN THE WORLD WITH A VICTORY IF CURRENT .O $USTIN *OHNSON FAILS TO REACH THE SEMI kNALS AND *USTIN 2OSE DOESN T MAKE IT TO THE SEMIS -C)LROY WON ALL THREE OF HIS ROUND ROBIN POOL MATCHES ON THE WAY TO THE TITLE BUT BOWED OUT IN POOL PLAY THE LAST TWO YEARS AND SAID HE THEREFORE WOULDN T LOOK FURTHER AHEAD g4HAT S THE kRST STEP IN THE PROCESS AND IF ) WIN SEVEN MATCHES THIS WEEK THEN AWESOME "UT AGAIN WINNING TOURNAMENTS GETTING NUM
BER ONE ALL THOSE ACCOLADES IT S A BY PRODUCT OF DOING ALL THE LITTLE THINGS RIGHT u HE SAID g3TEP BY STEP THEY WILL ADD UP TO ALL THAT STUFF THAT OTHER PEOPLE kND IMPORTANT u 7OODS IS A THREE TIME WINNER OF THE 7'# -ATCH 0LAY BUT HASN T PLAYED IT SINCE WHEN ALL ROUNDS WERE KNOCKOUT ROUNDS g4HIS LL BE A LITTLE DIFFERENT u HE SAID OF THE ROUND ROBIN FORMAT WHICH WILL SEND THE WIN NER FROM EACH OF FOUR MAN GROUPS THROUGH TO THE KNOCKOUT STAGE g) GUESS YOU CAN HALVE A MATCH AND STILL MOVE ON ) DON T REALLY KNOW THE INTRICACIES OF IT u 7OODS SAID BUT ADDED g)T S NOT REAL COMPLICATED PLAY WELL AND TAKE CARE OF THE GUY IN FRONT OF ME u 7OODS WHO ARRIVED -ONDAY AND PLAYED NINE HOLES AT !USTIN #OUNTRY #LUB OPENS THE $ELL 4ECHNOLOGIES -ATCH 0LAY AGAINST !ARON 7ISE AN .#!! CHAMPION FROM /REGON AND THE 0'! 4OUR ROOKIE OF THE YEAR 7ISE WILL BE THE ST PLAYER WHO HAD NEVER PLAYED WITH 7OODS SINCE HE RETURNED FROM BACK SURGERIES THAT KEPT HIM OUT OF GOLF FOR MOST OF TWO YEARS 7OODS WILL PLAY 7ISE ON 7EDNESDAY WITH MATCHES AGAINST FELLOW !MERICANS "RANDT 3NEDEKER AND 0ATRICK #ANTLAY TO FOLLOW AFP
Ababa sets early PGTA Riviera pace JHONNEL Ababa stumbled at the kNISH AND SETTLED FOR A ONE UNDER BARELY HANGING ON A ONE STROKE CLUBHOUSE LEAD OVER *UVIC 0AGUNSAN AND FOUR OTHERS AFTER THE MORNING PLAY IN THE )#43) 2IVIERA 'OLF #HALLENGE IN 3ILANG #AVITE ON 7EDNESDAY 3TARTING OUT STRONG WITH THREE BIRDIES IN THE FIRST FIVE HOLES !BABA HAD THOUGHT HE HAD THE TIGHT HAZARD LADEN ,ANGER COURSE ALL kGURED OUT BUT LOST HIS TOUCH WHEN THE GOING GOT TOUGH IN HOT CONDITIONS BOGEYING TWO OF THE LAST FOUR FOR A 7ITH HALF OF THE PLAYER STARTING kELD STILL TO COMPLETE PLAY AT PRESSTIME !BABA TOOK THE PRO VISIONAL LEAD ONE AHEAD OF 0AGUNSAN WHO FAILED TO REALLY GET GOING ON A COURSE THAT SUITS HIS GAME )N HIS RARE STINT ON THE 0'4! THE SMOOTH SWINGING 0AGUNSAN GUNNED DOWN THREE BIRDIES BUT FUMBLED WITH THE SAME NUMBER OF BOGEYS ALTHOUGH THE *A PAN 0'! 4OUR CAMPAIGNER AND !SIA S FORMER .O IS EXPECTED TO PRESS HIS BID IN THE SECOND ROUND OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP ALSO SERVING AS TUNE UP FOR THE 3OLAIRE 0HILIPPINE /PEN AT 4HE
#OUNTRY #LUB NEXT WEEK 7HILE !BABA WAVERED AT THE kNISH REIGNING 0HILIPPINE -ASTERS TITLIST CLOSED OUT WITH A TO MORE THAN MAKE UP FOR A HORRIBLE START AS HE JOINED 0AGUNSAN VETER ANS %LMER 3ALVADOR AND 2OLANDO -ARABE AND YOUNG )RA !LIDO AT PROVISIONAL SECOND IN THE HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP SPONSORED BY )#43) AND ORGANIZED BY 0ILIPINAS 'OLF 4OURNAMENTS )NC $UTCH 'UIDO 6AN DER 6ALK MATCHED PAR FOR JOINT SEVENTH
WITH (WANG -YUNG #HAL OF +OREA AND 0ETER 3TOJANOVSKI OF -ACEDO NIA WHILE !NGELO 1UE COMING OFF A JOINT TH kNISH IN LAST WEEK S -AYBANK #HAMPIONSHIP BLEW A ONE UNDER CARD AFTER HOLES WITH A BOGEY ON .O AND A DOUBLE BOGEY ON THE TH FOR A DROPPING TO JOINT TH WITH &ERDIE !UNZO AND 0IYA 3WANGARUNPORN AND #HONLATIT #HUENBOONNGAM OF 4HAILAND #HUENBOONNGAM ACTUALLY TURNED IN THE BEST START OF THREE
STRAIGHT BIRDIES BUT LIKE !BABA FOUND THE BACKSIDE TOO TOUGH AND TOO TRICKY TO OVERCOME LIMP ING WITH A 0ASAVEE ,ERTVILAI ALSO FROM 4HAILAND BOGEYED THE LAST TWO HOLES FOR A THREE OVER IN A TIE WITH 3INGAPORE S 'REGORY &OO !MERICAN 3AM 'ILLIS &IN LAND S 4EEMU 0UTKONEN AND *AY "AYRON AND 0'4 !SIA WINNERS $AMIEN *ORDAN OF !USTRALIA !BOITIZ AND *OENARD 2ATES 3UMMIT 0OINT
Q Jhonnel Ababa clings to early lead despite shaky finish. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Bautista Agut stuns Djokovic, Barty topples Kvitova in Miami MIAMI: .OVAK $JOKOVIC S PURSUIT OF A RECORD SEVENTH -IAMI /PEN !40 TITLE ENDED IN DRAMATIC FASHION ON 4UESDAY 7EDNESDAY IN -ANILA AS 2OBERTO "AUTISTA !GUT SUPERBLY RECOVERED FROM A kRST SET DESTRUC TION TO WIN AND BOOK A PLACE IN THE QUARTERkNALS !ND THE TOP SEEDS KEPT FALLING AS WOMEN S WORLD NUMBER TWO 0ETRA +VITOVA SLUMPED TO A SURPRISE DEFEAT TO !USTRALIAN !SHLEIGH "ARTY "AUTISTA !GUT MAY HAVE BEATEN $JOKOVIC ON THE WAY TO WINNING THE TITLE IN $OHA EARLIER THIS YEAR BUT TIME 'RAND 3LAM CHAMPION $JOKOVIC STARTED LIKE A TRAIN IN THIS LAST ENCOUNTER BEFORE BEING AMAZINGLY REINED BACK IN !FTER JUST MINUTES $JOKOVIC WAS AHEAD AND ON CRUISE CON TROL "AUTISTA !GUT SEVERELY STRUG GLING TO KEEP THE 3ERBIAN AT BAY ! SHORT RAIN DELAY LATE IN THE SECOND SET ALLOWED "AUTISTA !GUT TO REGROUP HOWEVER (E RETURNED A COMPLETELY DIF FERENT PLAYER AND AT THE END OF AN ABSORBING TWO HOURS AND MINUTES IT WAS THE NUMBER SEED WHO WILL NOW MEET DEFEND ING CHAMPION *OHN )SNER FOR A PLACE IN THE SEMI kNALS g) PLAYED MORE AGGRESSIVE u
Sports
SAID "AUTISTA !GUT WHO BEGAN TO NOTICEABLY STEP INSIDE AND FORCE $JOKOVIC ONTO THE BACK FOOT g) TRIED TO MISS LESS BALLS TO REALLY CONCENTRATE ON THE BEGINNING OF THE POINT WITH MY SERVE WITH MY RETURN u 7ITH 2OGER &EDERER S MATCH WITH $ANIIL -EDVEDEV POSTPONED UNTIL 7EDNESDAY AFTER A SPELL OF HEAVY RAIN FORCED TOURNAMENT OFkCIALS INTO A RESHUFlE ALL THE FOCUS REMAINED ON $JOKOVIC S SHOCK EXIT 4HE REIGNING 7IMBLE DON 53 /PEN AND !US TRALIAN /PEN CHAMPION LEFT COURT AND HEADED STRAIGHT TO A PRESS CON FERENCE TO TRY AND EX PLAIN THIS MOST REMARK ABLE OF TURNAROUNDS AT (ARD 2OCK 3TADIUM g(E IS A SOLID PLAYER BUT ) SHOULDN T HAVE LOST THIS MATCH ) HAD WAY TOO MANY WASTED OP PORTUNITIES u SAID THE WORLD NUMBER ONE WHO ALSO FAILED TO MAKE THE LATTER STAGES OF )NDIAN 7ELLS THIS MONTH g) THOUGHT ) PLAYED WELL TODAY AND DURING THIS TOURNAMENT BUT
TWO OR THREE SLUGGISH GAMES AND THAT S WHAT HAPPENS u$JOKOVIC WHO ALSO HINTED HIS VOCIFER OUS INVOLVEMENT IN !40 TENNIS POLITICS WHICH SAW 0RESIDENT #HRIS +ERMODE OUSTED THIS MONTH MAY HAVE AFFECTED HIS FOCUS WAS INITIALLY CONSISTENT WITH HIS SERVE DURING THE OPENING SET (E MIXED UP IS SHOTS SUPERBLY BLENDING POWER AND SUBTLETY TO KEEP HIS OPPONENT GUESSING (OWEVER A DROP IN $JOKOV IC S LEVEL COUPLED WITH A RISE IN "AUTISTA !GUT S AGGRESSION SAW A COMPLETE REVERSAL IN FORTUNES AFTER A MINUTE WEATHER DELAY 4HE 3PAN IARD GRABBED TWO SET
POINTS THE SECOND OF WHICH WAS TAKEN WHEN THE 3ERBIAN NETTED A FOREHAND "AUTISTA !GUT BROKE AGAIN FOR IN THE THIRD FOLLOWING AN UNCHARACTERISTIC DOUBLE FAULT AND ALTHOUGH $JOKOVIC HIT BACK IN THE VERY NEXT GAME THE 3PANIARD AGAIN TOOK ADVANTAGE OF HIS OPPONENT S FALTERING SERVE TO MOVE WITHIN TWO GAMES OF VICTORY
Auger-Aliassime advances 3ERVING FOR THE MATCH HE BROUGHT UP TWO MATCH POINTS ANOTHER FOREHAND WINNER SEALING ONE OF THE BEST COMEBACKS OF HIS CAREER AND HIS THIRD WIN OVER THE WORLD .O FROM THEIR LAST FIVE MATCHES "IG
Q Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain takes a fall in his match against Novak Djokovic of Serbia during the Miami Open tennis on Wednesday in Miami Gardens, Florida. AFP PHOTO
SERVING )SNER MOVED INTO THE LAST EIGHT WITH A TRIUMPH OVER 'REAT "RITAIN S WORLD NUMBER +YLE %DMUND %LSEWHERE THERE WAS A BRILLIANT WIN FOR YEAR OLD &ELIX !UGER !LIASSIME THE #ANADIAN WHO CAME THROUGH QUALIFYING WHO BEAT 'EORGIA S .IKOLOZ "ASILASH VILI !UGER !LIASSIME WHO IS SET TO BECOME THE kRST PLAYER BORN IN THE S TO BREAK INTO THE TOP WHEN THE RANKINGS ARE UPDATED NEXT WEEK PLAYS "ORNA #ORIC AFTER THE #ROATIAN BEAT .ICK +YRGIOS 4HE CONTROVERSIAL !USTRALIAN WAS FURIOUS AFTER BEING HECKLED BY A FAN DURING THE THIRD SET AND WAS DOCKED A POINT AFTER RESPOND ING WITH AN EXPLETIVE 3OMETHING SIMILAR HAPPENED 3UNDAY NIGHT g) M NOT GOING TO TAKE IT g SAID +YRGIOS WHO ADMITTED HE BECAME gA LITTLE BOREDu DURING THE SECOND SET u )N THE WOMEN S DRAW "ARTY WHO BEAT +VITOVA FOR THE FIRST TIME HAVING GONE INTO THE CLASH WILL PLAY !NETT +ONTAVEIT FOR A PLACE IN 3ATURDAY S kNAL AFTER THE %STONIAN BROUGHT AN END TO (SIEH 3U 7EI S IMPRESSIVE RUN WITH A VICTORY TO REACH THE LAST FOUR IN 3OUTH &LORIDA FOR THE AFP kRST TIME
Arellano cheerleading team eyes three-peat THE Arellano University (AU) Chiefsquad will go for a three-peat in the NCAA Cheerleading competition, which will air LIVE on ABS-CBN S+A and S+A HD with livestreaming on iWant Sports on Thursday starting at 3 p.m. from the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. With six titles under its belt, including backto-back championships in 2017 and 2018, the Chiefsquad remains the favorite in the competition that signifies the closing of the current NCAA season. Among its top competitors are 12-time champion Altas Perpsquad of the University of Perpetual Help System Daltasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (UPHSD) and the San Beda Red Corps of the San Beda Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (SBU), which placed second and third respectively in Season 93. Also aiming for a win are the Lakas Arriba Cheerleading Team of Colegio De San Juan de Letran (CSJL), the College of Saint Benilde (CSB) Pep Squad, the Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Generals Pep Squad, the Jose Rizal University (JRU) Pep Squad, the Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU), Mapua University Cheerping Cardinals (MU); and the Golden Stags Cheerleading Squad of San Sebastian College-Recoletos (SSC-R). The final competition for the NCAA this season will be hosted by NCAA panelist Andrei Felix and former PBB housemate Dawn Chang. Meanwhile, the special performances during the event will be led by Kapamilya actress, and Star Music artist, Janella Salvador along with champions of the Japanese Cheerleading Open 2018, the Taguig Science High School Sinag Pep Squad. For details, follow @ ABSCBNSports on Twitter and Facebook or visit sports.abs-cbn.com.
C4
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
Football
Ë&#x153; The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ronaldo Alarmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;for Juventus ahead of Champions League quarters M ILAN: Cristiano Ronaldoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thigh injury picked up during Portugalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1-1 Euro 2020 qualifier draw with Serbia has sparked alarm in Italy ahead of Juventusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; #HAMPIONS ,EAGUE QUARTERkNAL TIE AGAINST !JAX in two weeksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time. The 34-year-old Juve attacker hobbled off 30 minutes into Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stalemate after pulling up chasing a ball on the left wing, and Turin-based daily Tuttosport launched a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ronaldo Alarmâ&#x20AC;? on Tuesday, while Gazzetta Dello Sport headlined with â&#x20AC;&#x153;CR7 Worryâ&#x20AC;?. Ronaldo underwent tests in Portugal on Tuesday with Juventus moving to allay fears afterwards by issuing a statement to say the injury was a â&#x20AC;&#x153;minorâ&#x20AC;? one. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cristiano Ronaldo underwent examinations in Portugal that showed an apparent minor injury TO HIS RIGHT THIGH lEXORS u THE 3ERIE A giants said in a statement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;His condition will be monitored and will be subjected to new investigations to define the resumption of competitive activity.â&#x20AC;? Juventus travel to Amsterdam FOR THE kRST LEG OF THEIR QUARTER final clash with the Dutch side on April 10 with the return leg on April 16, and the absence of Ronaldo would be a huge blow for the Turin giants after he dragged them past Atletico Madrid in the last 16 with a return-leg hat-trick earlier
this month. Recovery time for a thigh injury varies from up to 10 days for a slight problem to three months, but Ronaldo quickly moved to reassure everyone that he would soon shake off the knock. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not worried. I know my body. I believe that in no more THAN TWO WEEKS ) LL BE kNE u 2ONaldo told reporters. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have to wait 24 to 48 hoursâ&#x20AC;?. The Portuguese star is set to undergo further tests in Juveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical centre in Turin.
Resilient Ronaldo Ronaldo was rested two weeks ago when the Italian champions sufFERED THEIR kRST LEAGUE DEFEAT THIS season, 2-0 against Genoa in their last game before the international break. But Juventus have a comfortable 15 point-lead on the top of the Serie A table and are on course for an eighth consecutive Scudetto. Juventus signed the five-time Champions League winner last
Q Portugalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forward Cristiano Ronaldo (center) vies with Serbiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defender Nikola Milenkovic (bottom) during the Euro 2020 qualifying group B football match between Portugal and Serbia at the Luz stadium in Lisbon on March 25, 2019. AFP PHOTO summer for 100 million euros ($117 million) to end their search for the title they last won in 1996. His hat-trick against Atletico SEALED A PLACE IN THE QUARTER kNALS with a 3-2 aggregate win after being TWO GOALS DOWN AFTER THE kRST LEG
4HE kVE TIME "ALLON D /R WINner has rarely been injured during his long career. He suffered two injuries to his left ankle in 2008-2009 and 2009-2010, with his last serious injury a cruciate ligament sprain
in his left knee during the Euro kNAL WON BY 0ORTUGAL AGAINST hosts France. The Genoa defeat was the only time Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri has rested Ronaldo this season but he has other attack-
ing options available, including Argentine Paulo Dybala, who has been overshadowed by Ronaldo this season, and rising start Moise Kean, 19, fresh from scoring his kRST INTERNATIONAL GOAL WITH )TALY against Finland. AFP
Morata double gives Spain victory over Malta TAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; QALI, Malta: Alvaro Morataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remarkable revival continued on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila) as he scored twice for Spain in a 2-0 victory over Malta. After edging past Norway 2-1 on Saturday, Morataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s double at the Taâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Qali stadium gives Spain two wins from two in Euro 2020 qualifying and the perfect start in Group F. Luis Enriqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s side again showed the inability to convert possession into chances that clouded their early exit from last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Cup. But Morataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brace offers room for encouragement, the striker extending his return to form since he joined Atletico Madrid on loan from Chelsea in January. (E HAS kVE GOALS IN SIX GAMES HIS BEST RETURN since September 2017, and has strengthened his case for a position that has proved so troublesome for Spain in recent years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The boss knows how happy I am to be here and I am grateful to him,â&#x20AC;? Morata said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want to qualify as soon as possible for the Euros so it was important to win today.â&#x20AC;? Malta lie 182nd in FIF A â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s world rankings, between Liechtenstein and Macau. Their w i n over the Faroe Is-
LANDS LAST WEEKEND WAS THEIR kRST IN MATCHES and only their second in almost four years. Luis Enrique was absent for â&#x20AC;&#x153;personal reasonsâ&#x20AC;?, leaving his assistant Robert Moreno in charge on the touchline. There were unfamiliar faces on the pitch too as only three players â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sergio Ramos, Morata and Marco Asensio â&#x20AC;&#x201D; retained their places in a much-changed line-up from the team that beat Norway. 3IX OF 3PAIN S STARTING OWNED kVE CAPS or fewer, including Real Betisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; attacking midkELDER 3ERGIO #ANALES AND -ARIO (ERMOSO the 23-year-old Espanyol defender linked with a summer move to Real Madrid. Morataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first, shortly after the half-hour, owed much to Maltaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goalkeeper Henry Bonello, who failed to stop the forwardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scuffed finish after Hermosoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clipped pass over the top. Sergi Robertoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cross almost gave Morata his second, only for the glancing header TO lASH WIDE but he did not have long to wait. Jesus Navas delivered another ball to the back post in the 73rd minute and this time Morata made no mistake. AFP Q Spainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forward Alvaro Morata scores a header during the Euro 2020 Group F qualifying football match Malta vs Spain on Wednesday at the Taâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Qali Stadium in Malta. AFP PHOTO
PH exits AFC U-23 2020 qualifying meet winless THE Philippine under-23 menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national football team suffered a narrow 2-3 loss to Laos, resulting in a winless campaign in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U-23 Championship 2020 qualifying tournament on Tuesday at the Shah Alam Football Stadium in Selangor, Malaysia. *ARVEY 'AYOSO NOTCHED A BRACE IN THE kRST HALF but the Junior Azkals squandered a two-goal lead as their defense collapsed in the endgame. 4HE 0( 5 TEAM kNISHED THE QUALIkERS with three defeats in as many matches in Group J, scoring only two goals while conceding 14. Head coach Salvador Salvacionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s men started the tournament with a 0-3 loss to host Malaysia on Friday before suffering a 0-8 beating to powerhouse China on Sunday. China advanced as group winner to next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main tournament in Thailand, which will also serve as a qualifying competition for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
4HE 0HILIPPINES DREW kRST BLOOD COURTESY OF Gayosoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 11th minute strike before the Ateneo De Manila University star striker doubled the lead with a penalty kick conversion in the 33rd. Laos closed the gap with a goal with Chitpasong Latthachackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 74th minute strike then Vannasone Douangmity provided the equalizer in the 88th. Bounphachan Bounkong scored the gamewinning goal for the Laotians three minutes into the added time. The young Filipino footballers called up for this tourney were also the ones who participated in the 2019 Asean Football Federation (AFF) U-22 Championship last month wherein they ALSO kNISHED WITH A WINLESS RECORD The same players are expected to comprise the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national football squad for the 2019 Southeast Asian Games that will be hosted by the Philippines later this year. JEREMIAH M. SEVILLA
TTHURSDAY H UURSDAY R S DAYY MARC MARCH C H 28 28, 8, 2019
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AICELLE SANTOS
From â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Miss Saigonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to Mrs. Zambrano and more A BY IZA IGLESIAS
FTER a year-long stint with â&#x20AC;&#x153;Miss Saigonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sâ&#x20AC;? UK Tour, GMA Networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homegrown singer and actress Aicelle Santos is back in the Philippines in high spirits.
just made sure to keep our communication open every day.â&#x20AC;? Happily, Zambrano was able to visit Santos in London twice, while she also surprised him with quick trip to Manila within her year away.
While humbled by sterling re- friends in the cast about Q The views for her portrayal of Gigi Van being homesick because homegrown Tranh in Cameron Mackintoshâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going through the GMA Network critically-acclaimed musical, she same thing. But when artist reaped is also grateful for the opportunity you get over it most days, rave reviews to make the Philippines proud youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be reminded why as Gigi in BY RAISING THE lAG OF THE &ILIPINO youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing this â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Cameron because you love your artist abroad. Mackintosh Best of all, Santos credits the craft,â&#x20AC;? she added. theatrical priceless experience for helping masterpiece. her grow in many ways. Long distance â&#x20AC;&#x153;Playing Gigi was a personal, love spiritual, and professional journey for me. It taught me a lot about And then thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the long myself as a person and as an ac- distance relationship tor. I became more disciplined on top of it all what because of our daily shows that re- with Santos engaged to quired physical and mental focus,â&#x20AC;? GMA News And Public she began. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We did eight shows a Affairsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; senior news anweek so na-train ako talaga. I also chor Mark Zambrano. LEARNED TO BE MORE CONkDENT IN â&#x20AC;&#x153;The distance was my own skin because Gigi wears really hard for me bikinis every night. Nawala yung insecurities ko.â&#x20AC;? The 34-year-old who sat down with a select group of publications â&#x20AC;&#x153;If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll remember, we got enfurther talked about the gaged on March 7, two weeks before struggles of being away ) lEW TO 5+ SO TECHNICALLY WE HAVEN T from home and what she been together much as an engaged learned in surviving them. couple. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why when I came â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being so far from home, we both realized, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Uy, engaged home and living outside na nga pala tayoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;,â&#x20AC;? she chuckled. of my comfort zone made â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sabi niya kung masaya ako na me realize the more impornakabalik na ako, mas masaya tant things in life. I valued daw siya. Mas kampante na rin my personal relationships because no more long distance more with my family and relationship. Kasi ibang klase friends. [Being in Europe] I kasi yung pagtitiis, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re even learned to appreciate still very lucky to live in the the warmth of the sun after Q Surviving their long distance age of social media where days of cloudy and gloomy relationshop, Santos and fiance Mark thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facetime. Now weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re skies. And I really enjoyed the Zambrano are thick into their wedding both very happy and excited quietness of a simple and inde- preparations for the end of the year. for this new chapter in our lives,â&#x20AC;? pendent life,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The experience was very noong unang mga linggo. But, Santos continued. Right now, they are busy planwholistic because it ultimately ang bilis na kasi ng panahon , strengthened my faith since I was and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re both confident sa ning their wedding which will take living alone and there would be isaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t-isa,â&#x20AC;? she admitted. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve place by the end of the year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Noong nandoon ako, walang times I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just talk to my always trusted each other so we
planning na nangyayari although we were already talking to our wedding planner. But even then, sabi ko I have to be home to decide on these things so ngayon nabubuo na siya,â&#x20AC;? she shared. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want something small but hindi pa kNAL yung theme. Nago-occular pa kami but I already said I want garden or beach wedding â&#x20AC;&#x201D; basta a wedding amid nature,â&#x20AC;? Santos enthused.
Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more Besides getting ready to become Mrs. Zambrano, Santos wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be taking a break from her career with a full schedule waiting for her before she even got home. First on her list of projects is Ballet Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2019 restaging of the 1977 pop rock opera ballet, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tales of the Manuvu,â&#x20AC;? which features the Manaobo Tribe of Mindanaoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s folk tales. The show is set to run until March 31 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). Secondly, Santos is also excited to make her TV comeback this April as a regular host of musicalvariety show, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Studio 7.â&#x20AC;? And still for the stage, she is kNALLY SCHEDULED TO REPRISE HER role as Elsa in the rerun of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Himala: Isang Musikalâ&#x20AC;? all before she walks down the aisle. Asked if she is looking to go abroad for work again, Santos replied, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I always say Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m open to international productions, but for now Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m home, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m happy and excited to work here, make new music and marry the man I love.â&#x20AC;?
Q Gerard Salonga is now resident conductor of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra.
Gerard Salonga leads Malaysian Philharmonic GERARD SALONGA will now have to shuttle between Kuala Lumpur and Manila for the whole of 2019 as he takes on a new job as resident conductor of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), while retaining his post with the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra. Following a stint as assistant conductor of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, Salonga was offered the post by the MPO as early as May 2018. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At that time, the general manager sat down with me and told me about their intention to invite me to be their next resident conductor,â&#x20AC;? says Lea Salongaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s younger brother who has long come on his own. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Naturally, I felt great about it because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve known about that orchestra since they were founded in 2008.â&#x20AC;? The MPO is a music group that he has always respected and admired. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Their sound is so beautiful,â&#x20AC;? he remarks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The
predominantly European string section really brings with them a tradition of beautiful sound and the music is loaded with emotional content when they play.â&#x20AC;? Salonga is very excited with this new opportunity to work with a diverse group of musicians. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had already worked with the MPO as guest conductor on many concerts so I feelvery comfortable joining them.â&#x20AC;? Besides conducting the MPO this year, he is scheduled to lead the Hong Kong Philharmonic this month, Kunming Nie-Er Symphony Orchestra in May, South Denmark Philharmonic Orchestra in August and Sydney Symphony Orchestra in November, and of course the ABS-CBN Philharmonic. He will work on the productions of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sweeney Toddâ&#x20AC;? for Atlantis Theatrical in Manila in October and the Singapore Repertory Theater in November and December.
WCOPA winner in fundraising concert RENZ Fernando who won four medals in the 2017 World Championship of Performing Arts in California will
Q Renz Fernando
hold a fundraising concert March 28 at Sky Dome in SM City North Edsa. Presented by and Sinag Arts Foundation, it is simply titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Renz Fernando in Concertâ&#x20AC;? and will benefit the Breath of Life Foundation headed by internationally renowned neonatologist and researcher Enrique Ostrea, Jr., who is based in Michigan, USA. Ostrea developed the OstreaVent technology together with a group of mechanical and electronic engineers from UP and the Department of Science and Technology, which â&#x20AC;&#x201D; with the help of the concertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revenues â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they are set to donate to Philippine hospitals where many premature infants suffer from respiratory diseases and die unnecessarily due to lack of ventilators. Meanwhile, Fernando is a singing pride of Tawi-Tawi, who won a $10,000 scholarship at the New York Film Academy with his triumph at the 21st WCOPA.
Four must-see shows in April T
HIS April, the Philippine concert scene will continue to boom starting out with four concerts which Music Geek recommends you dare not miss! Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one for loyal OPM fans, two for pop music lovers and one for K-Pop and K-Drama addicts.
BACKSTREET BOYS TO PERFORM IN MANILA Ninetiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; top boy band Backstreet Boys announced their much-awaited reunion tour this year, which includes a stop in Manila. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hello Asia! Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bringing the DNA World Tour to you this October,â&#x20AC;? band member AJ McLean tweeted. â&#x20AC;&#x153;DNA,â&#x20AC;? is the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new album released earlier this year. The concert date in Manila is on October 28. Formed in Orlando, Florida, USA in 1993, the Backstreet Boys is comprised of McLean, Howie Dorough, Kevin Richardson, Brian Littrell, and Nick Carter. Their careerdefining hits include â&#x20AC;&#x153;As Long as You Love Me,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Quit Playing Games with my Heart,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Get Down,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everybody,â&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Want it That Way.â&#x20AC;? ARIC JOHN SY CUA
MUSIC GEEK MUS MARK BONIFACIO
ly Crawford, have bandeed together to become DAMI IM LIVE, April 3 TThe CR3W, and are now at Salon De Ning. Dami sset to mount the coolIm is one of the most reEEST SONIC MOOD kLLED vered artists of the new B Big Dome concert ever. millennium. After winning Currently, Crawford is the Australian edition of se set hit charts anew with The X-Factor, and placing th the release of his new alsecond at the Eurovision b bum, which includes the Song Contest, Im went on h hot single â&#x20AC;&#x153;Filipina Girl.â&#x20AC;? to rule the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charts R Reid is now a producer with one platinum album fo for his own record label after another. Influenced C Careless Music, and just by the likes of Norah Jones, u unloaded â&#x20AC;&#x153;Summer,â&#x20AC;? Corinne Bailey Rae, Mariah Carey, and Beyonce, fans have raved a duet with real-life girlfriend Nadine Lustre for about her and critics praised her for exciting original songs and brilliant covers of Carpenters, Carole King, and even Prince classics. This Korean-born Australian will perform live on her piano for the kRST TIME IN -ANILA WITH 2 " SOUL singer Bea Lorenzo as her front act as presented by Sony Music Philippines. THE CR3W IN CONCERT, April 5, Smart Araneta Coliseum. Three of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular singers, actors and all-around media personalities, James Reid, Sam Concepcion and Bil-
the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Careless Mixtape.â&#x20AC;? Finally, Concepcion brings to the show his latest single â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bukas Makalawa.â&#x20AC;? Ticket.Net.com.ph has more information for CR3W as produced by ScratchIt and Viva Live, Inc.
est studio album, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Forever Neverlandâ&#x20AC;? and a successful Europe and US tour, MĂ&#x2DC; will be perform her chart-topping hits for Filipino fans. TicketNet has more information on this production from Insignia Presents.
MĂ&#x2DC; IN MANILA, April 15, New Frontier Theater. Danish pop artist IS COMING TO -ANILA FOR THE kRST TIME as part of her upcoming his Forever Neverland World Tour across Asia and Australia. MĂ&#x2DC; collaborated with Australian rapper Iggy Azalea on the 2014 single â&#x20AC;&#x153;Beg for It,â&#x20AC;? which peaked at number 27 on the US Billboard Hot 100, 1 earning MĂ&#x2DC; her first entry e on the chart. The following year, MĂ&#x2DC; was w featured on Major Lazer and an DJ Snakeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s single â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lean On,â&#x20AC;? On which peaked highly on international charts, including clu Australia, the United Kingdom Kin and America. Her music mus video also gained more than 2.5 billion views on YouTube, Tube making it the 15th most viewed viewe video on the site. Following the release of her latFol
PARK BO GUM, GOOD DAY FAN MEET, April 27, Mall of Asia Arena. South Koreaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest star Park Bo Gum WILL kNALLY COME TO -ANILA FOR A FAN W meet. The Korean heartthrob gained wide popularity for K-dramas such as w â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hello Monster,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Reply 1988,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Encounterâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Love in the Moonlight.â&#x20AC;? He also had a single entitled â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Person,â&#x20AC;? which was part of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Love In The Moonlightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sâ&#x20AC;? M Official Soundtrack and topped tthe Korean charts. Park made his acting debut in a 2011 kLM TITLED â&#x20AC;&#x153;Blindâ&#x20AC;? and has since played a diverse range of roles. In 2016, he became the youngest artist named Actor of the Year by Gallup Korea. BoGummies, as his fans have named themselves, will be thrilled to know that all ticketholders will be given Hi4OUCH AND 'OOD $AY -ANILA OFkCIAL posters by smtickets.com.
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THURSDAY March 28, 2019
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Solution to puzzle
Answers 1. George Michael 2. Jeannette Rankin, elected in 1916 as a U.S. representative from Montana 3. Heart attack 4. Adele 5. India 6. Pumice 7. A swarm, a bloom or a smack 8. Vin Diesel 9. Military police with civilian duties 10. Three-fourths, or 38 of 50 states
Answer to trivia test © 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
Answers 1. Oscar 2. Reno 3. Santana 4. Nathaniel Hawthorne 5. A group of spies or traitors within your own defensive line 6. The liver 7. Socks 8. Seattle 9. 194 10. Val Kilmer
» CROSSWORD
BY EUGENE SHEFFER
»HOROSCOPE Today’s Birthday (03/28/19). Educational opportunities abound this year. Professional doors open with focused determination and practice. Beautify your home this summer, before work concerns require focus and resolution. Your career takes off next winter, leading to a domestic change. Apply what you’re learning for creative practical solutions. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging. ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19) -- Today is an 8 -- Discipline with words and actions can help you realize a professional dream. It’s easier to clear up misunderstandings, with Mercury in Pisces stationing direct. Communication barriers dissolve. TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20) -- Today is a 7 -- Long-distance travels or studies come together with diligent preparation. Make plans and strategies. Make notes, observations and reports. Learn through experience. Build a fun project. GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 20) -- Today is an 8 -- A collaborative effort generates income with steady efforts. Build a dream with your partner. Contribute your time and talents. Coordination comes naturally, with Mercury direct. CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Share a dream with your partner. Realize it through teamwork. With Mercury direct now, it’s easier to brainstorm, negotiate, collaborate and network. LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Learn from the competition. Practice your moves and stay light on your feet. Traffic flows better, with Mercury direct. It’s easier to travel and launch projects. VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Make promises with someone you love. Build a romantic vision together one step at a time. Money, invoices and payments flow freely, with Mercury direct.
» SUDOKU
1. ENTERTAINERS: Which pop music singer was born with the name Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou? 2. HISTORY: Who was the first woman to hold federal office in the United States? 3. MEDICAL: What is a more common name for “myocardial infarction”? 4. MUSIC: Which singer had a 2010 hit single with “Rolling in the Deep”? 5. GENERAL LANGUAGE: What is the NATO phonetic word for the letter “I”? 6. SCIENCE: What is the only type of rock that is less dense than water? 7. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a group of jellyfish called? 8. MOVIES: Who voiced the character of “The Iron Giant”? 9. LANGUAGE: What are the Carabinieri in Italy? 10. U.S. GOVERNMENT: How many states are required to ratify an amendment to the U.S. Constitution?
BY NANCY BLACK LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Domestic misunderstandings resolve easily. Lines of communication clear up, with Mercury direct. It’s easier to persuade, compromise and reach consensus. Family conversations generate valuable ideas. SCORPIO (OCT. 23-NOV. 21) -- Today is an 8 -- An obstacle or barrier evaporates. It’s easier to concentrate and communicate, with Mercury direct for the next three months. Write and get your message out farther. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21) -- Today is a 9 -- Creative muses sing to you, with Mercury direct now. Articulate your feelings. Put love into your work and your cash flow velocity increases. CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19) -- Today is a 9 -- You can advance a personal dream. Express the future you want to create for your family. Share your visions. Communication channels open, with Mercury direct. Speak up. AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18) -- Today is a 6 -- Enjoy soothing routines and rituals. Peace and quiet behind closed doors invites productivity and restoration. It’s easier to learn, with Mercury direct. Write, post and publish. PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20) -- Today is an 8 -- Contribute to a team project. Confusion diminishes noticeably, with Mercury direct. Discuss finances, budgets and logistics. You can work faster together. Raise the tempo.
(Astrologer Nancy Black continues her mother Linda Black’s legacy horoscopes column. She welcomes comments and questions on Twitter, @LindaCBlack. For more astrological interpretations like today’s Gemini horoscope, visit Linda Black Astrology by clicking daily horoscopes, or go to www.nancyblack.com.) NANCY BLACK.Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC BY ROGER SEVILLA
Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 square contains the digits 1 to 9 with no repeats. Solution from yesterday’s puzzle.
Ë&#x153; The Manila Times
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Philippine Marketing Association partners with Resorts World Manila
Q Signing the agreement (from left)  Paraluman Tamayo, Resorts World Manila Hotel Sales and Marketing assistant director; Julius Uy, GMMPhilippine Marketing Association director; Mary Faith AbaĂąo, Philippine Marketing Association president; Kathy Mercado, Resorts World Manila International Sales and Marketing senior director; and Marco Antonio Montes, GMM-Philippine Marketing Association chairman. /&&)#)!,3 of Philippine Marketing Association and Resorts World Manila sign a memoramdum of agreement on their partNERSHIP AT 3HERATON 27- 0ASAY City on March 19. PMA held its second General Membership Meeting, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pushing THE 2IGHT "UTTONS #REATIVITY X Customer Experience,â&#x20AC;? at the Grand Wing of Resorts World Manila on March 27. RWM is the official venue partner
of this event which carries the associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 65th anniversary THEME g0-! 3TRONG ! New Dawn.â&#x20AC;? This event is also in partnership WITH ,INKED). 4EAM!SIA 4%$ Events, DOOH, Primer Group of #OMPANIES AND 3YNERGY This membership meeting highlights a new dawn of event marketING AND THE LAUNCH OF 0-! S lAGship programs, National Marketing Conference and Agora Awards.
KC Los BaĂąos receives River Warrior Komiks token 02%3)$%.4 Moonyeen Pendon $E 6ERA OF +# ,OS "AĂ&#x201E;OS AND 0AST President Cindy Nicolas received the River Warrior Komiks courtesy of Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) through 0RESIDENT 'RACE "ONDAD .ICOLAS of Kiwanis Club of Makati. According to President Moonyeen, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our next project will be in Mindoro for the indigent Mangyans. We like to give them livelihood programs and to give them more skills.â&#x20AC;? Kiwanis International is advocating to alleviate the lives of the indigent children and information dissemination and educating the kids as part of its mandate especially about the environment to make everyone aware on how to take care of the river banks and nature. Kiwanis International was es-
tablished in 1915 at Detroit, Michigan. Kiwanis International is a global community of clubs, members and partners dedicated to improving the lives of children one community at a time. Today, it stand with more than 600,000 members from K-Kids to Key Club to Kiwanis and many ages in between in more than 80 countries.
Rustanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presents Criselda Lontok Summer 2019 collection
'%.4,9 curving pink sand beaches as far as the eyes can see, turquoise waters that sparkle like diamonds under the beating SUN BLOOMING lOWERS COUCHED in verdant bright green patches, sunsets that paint the sky, and the world around you, a vivid fuchsia pink, all the beautiful things that conjure images of heavenly summer months are captured lithely by esteemed Filipina fashion DESIGNER #RISELDA ,ONTOK IN HER COLLECTION FOR 3UMMER In her pursuit to make sure rarity is still very much wearable, #RISELDA ,ONTOK 2USTAN S IN house designer, presents elegant
summer pieces that are at once dauntless and exquisite. The collection features cruise wear with oversized bows and bell sleeves, classic silhouettes embellished with just the right amount of fringe and flounce, and an evening line that can take you from romantic beach jaunts to formal evening balls. Exquisite pieces that will captivate women of all ages who are acquainted with the fact that summer is a style adventure, meant for everyone to enjoy. #RISELDA ,ONTOK IS EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE AT 2USTAN S -AKATI 3HANGRI ,A !LABANG 'ATEWAY AND #EBU
Debenhams sizzling picks for summer WHETHER for his or hers, or EVEN YOUR TINY TOTS "RITISH BRAND Debenhams brings together a VARIETY OF STYLES TO kT EVERY MOOD occasion, and personality. In womenswear, Red Herring creates capsule pieces for the ULTIMATE 3PRING 3UMMER FANTASY with the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s must-haves which include the feminized resort shirt with classic cuts and pocket detailing. Principles also sets the pace for the season with rustic earthy tones, inspired by natural fabrications building on the utility trend, where functionality is key. As to be expected from the style leader, Julien MacDonald designerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique handwriting shines through as he introduces animal print dresses and power ensembles for the ultimate summer showstoppers. For men, Red Herring, the
youngest menswear brand, provides high street fashion with its denim and casualwear while harking on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;90s nostalgia and the grit and grunge of the era. !T "LUEZOO FIND THE PERFECT chinos for adventurous boys, and delight in graphic jersey dresses WITH ITS PRETTY PRINTS AND lOUNCY skirts. Mantaray also has a range of styles that comes embroidered with whimsical and dainty designs, great for mommy-and-me or daddy-and-me dates. Even the babies have something to look forward to this summer, like the adorable sleepSUITS FROM "LUEZOO WHICH WILL BE launched on Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and easter chick designs for babies and toddlers come Easter. $EBENHAMS IS LOCATED AT 3HANGRI ,A 0LAZA -ALL 'LORIETTA m Rustanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Makati, TriNoma, and Abreeza Mall in Davao.
Public Square
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
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QCADAAC teams up with EAMC for annual drug testing T O strengthen Quezon Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advocacy for a drug-free workplace, the Quezon City AntiDrug Abuse Advisory Council (QCADAAC) has entered a partnership with the East Avenue Medical Center (EAMC) for the implementation of annual drug test of all the employees under the local government of Quezon City. In 2015, Quezon City passed the Quezon City Drug-Free Work Place ordinance that requires all OFkCIALS AND EMPLOYEES IN THE OFkCES OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT TO undergo annual drug testing to ensure the maintenance of a safe and healthy work environment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We expect that the implementation of an annual drug test for our employees will be more efkCIENT 4HIS IS TO STRENGTHEN OUR drive for a Drug Free Workplace in Quezon City,â&#x20AC;? said QCADAAC Chairman and Quezon City Vice -AYOR *OSEkNA g*OYu "ELMONTE )N "ELMONTE REPORTED
that almost 23,377 government employees, barangay officials, staff, and members of the tricycle operators and drivers association (TODA) have completed the annual drug testing since 2016, which she deemed an effective measure to curb illegal drug abuse among public servants. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are striving to keep illegal drug abuse away from our employees so that it will never penetrate our workplaces especially the ofkCES OF THE 1UEZON #ITY LOCAL GOVernment and also to ensure that we maintain a safe and healthy work environment,â&#x20AC;? she said. Quezon City is also working with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in order to to combat illegal drug abuse in private establishments such as hotels, restaurants, bars, subdivisions, condominiums, and warehouses by requiring employees to be educated on the harmful effects of illegal drug abuse.
"ASED ON THE ORDINANCE THE CITY S renew permits for businesses that "USINESS 0ERMITS AND ,ICENSING will not provide records that their /FkCE "0,/ IS MANDATED NOT TO employees are 100 percent drug-free.
Landev Corporation garners 2018 Meralco Luminary award IN recognition of its partnership with Meralco that upgrades and transforms offices and schools into productive, sustainable work AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT ,ANDEV Corp., a member of the Yuchengco Group of Companies (YGC), was recognized as a Meralco Corporate ,UMINARY FOR "Y LEVERAGING ON -3ERV S -ERALcoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wholly owned energy services COMPANY MANAGED SERVICES ,ANDEV Q Meralco VP and Corporate Business Group Head Victor Genuino; Eufemia Paguio, Landev Corp. COO; Mario is leading all initiatives for YGC to Paguio, Landev Corp property manager; Kim Yel Tabucal and Meralco Relationship Manager Khristine Brennan at ensure that all of its building structhe 8th Meralco Luminaries Awards Night tures and its occupants are energy EFkCIENT AS 9'# PURSUES THE ULTIMATE OF ,ANDEV #ORPORATION IS ITS CO ,UMINARIES IS A PROGRAM THAT Units whose projects with MeralGOAL OF BEING ,%%$ CERTIkED COO, Mario Paguio. honors large and small enterpris- co have contributed to building a Receiving the award on behalf Established in 2011, the Meral- ES AS WELL AS ,OCAL 'OVERNMENT progressive Philippines.
Crimson Hotel reveals staycation deals #2)-3/. Hotel at Filinvest City in Alabang, Muntinlupa offers summer in the city staycation deals that let you have a relaxing respite that has all the city charm with ADDED BENEkTS SUCH AS RETREATING to the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plush rooms, taking pleasure in the swimming pool or simply lounging around. &EEL THE /ASIS IN THE 3OUTH FOR 3 days and 2 nights staycation in any of the Crimson Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $ELUXE 2OOM OR 3UITE INCLUsive of buffet breakfast for two persons at CafĂŠ Eight. Urban Glampcation is Crimson Hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stylish take in city CAMPING WITH kVE STAR COMFORT
within a modern setting. With the package, the whole family can bond for a night in two connecting Premier Rooms, camping tent set-up with kiddie amenities and toys, and buffet breakfast for two persons at CafĂŠ Eight. &ROM !LABANG lY TO -ALAYsia.Guests who booked any of THE 3UMMER IN THE #ITY ROOM PACKAGES ARE ENTITLED TO A RAFlE coupon for a chance to win round-trip tickets for two to Kota +INABALU VIA #EBU 0ACIkC Use the promo code hellosummer to book. For more information, visit www.crimsonhotel.com.
Savoy Hotel Manila bares Summer Splashinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; package "%!4 the heat and check into a COOL AND COZY STAYCATION AT 3AVOY Hotel Manila at Resorts World -ANILA 27- WITH THEIR 3UMMER 3PLASHIN PACKAGE 3AVOY (OTEL -ANILA GUESTS CAN GET an overnight accommodation with buffet breakfast for two in an Essential Room, inclusive of two glasses of refreshing featured summer drink at The Poolside, a massage for two at The Cabana, and 20 percent discounts on select RWM shows. This special seasonal offer is only open for reservations until April 22 for stays until April 30. 4HE 3AVOY 3UMMER 3PLASHIN package is only available through DIRECT BOOKING AT THE 3AVOY (OTEL
Manila reservation counter or THROUGH THE HOTEL S OFkCIAL WEBSITE. 4HE ROOM 3AVOY ALSO FEAtures function rooms, three dining OUTLETS AND 3QUARES m A COMMON lounge area with spaces for guests to work, relax, or mingle. The outdoor pool and bar provides the perfect place to do laps or just lounge. 3AVOY (OTEL -ANILA ALSO OFFERS a free shuttle service for guests to easily access Resorts World Manila and its many thrills, including Newport Mall and the Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT). 7ITH THEIR SPECIAL 3UMMER 3PLASHIN DISCOUNT 3AVOY GUESTS RWMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s critically-acclaimed Ang can enjoy world-class entertain- (ULING %L "IMBO, and Jaya: At ment at excellent value such as Her Finest at the NPAT during the
promotion period. For more information, visit www.savoyhotelmanila.com.ph.
MĂśvenpick Resort & Spa Boracay offers idyllic island vacations .%34,%$ directly on the soft SANDS OF 0UNTA "UNGA #OVE ON "ORACAY S EXCLUSIVE NORTHWEST TIP -Ă&#x2021;VENPICK 2ESORT 3PA "ORACAY IS the perfect destination for family holidays, with a wealth of facilities and activities for all ages. This international upscale resort offers a choice of 312 rooms, suites and villa for all types of family, rangING FROM 3UPERIOR 2OOMS FOR TWO adults and one child, all the way up TO THE LUXURIOUS 3OL -ARINA 6ILLA which can comfortably accommodate four adults and two children, and even features a private pool. During the day, the spectacular 3,300-square meter multi-level swimming pool is an inviting place for kids to play and parents to relax.
Aquatic adventures can also be enjoyed on the soft sandy shoreline, which is lapped by warm, shallow SEAS 0UNTA "UNGA #OVE S LONG BEACH is an exceptional venue for families to spend happy days, building sandcastles and paddling in the sea. Grown-ups can soothe their sensES IN THE 3AGAY 3PA WHICH FEATURES an extensive menu of massages, body scrubs, facials and beauty treatments, including state-of-the-art Winback therapies which rejuvenate the body at a cellular level. Parents can also rest assured that their children are having a great time IN THE ,ITTLE "IRDS #LUB !T THE END OF A FUN kLLED DAY FAMilies can come together and enjoy EXQUISITE EVENING MEALS AT "REZZA
the authentic Italian ristorante, The Market, the vibrant international RESTAURANT OR 3S¸M WHICH SERVES innovative Japanese, Chinese and +OREAN CUISINE !LTERNATIVELY 3OL
-ARINA "EACH #LUB IS A GREAT PLACE for guests to chill out together during the day or after dark. For more information, please visit www.movenpick.com.
TTHURSDAY H U R S D AY M MARCH ARCH 28, 2019
Lifestyle
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www.manilatimes.net
Q Chicken Tikka ConsommĂŠ.
Q Duck Terrine.
Q Chickpea Pancake and Spicy Asparagus.
Enjoying 'elevated' Indian cuisine with sophisticated French wines cuisine that would match with wine. The elevation did not end there as the was the sweet Sauvignon Blanc 2016 IGP: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was not a very easy nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dinner saw Indian cuisine in a Pays dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Oc; and the sweeter Saint Veran Blanc 2015 by Domaine du Challet Pouilly for the DIFFERENT PLATING SPECIkCALLY N culinary circles, the varied cuisines of Asia are pairing. Indian food cuisine is very complex, it has â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you look at appetizer of Duck Terrine. almost always toward the bottom when it comes A LOT OF lAVORS SPICES AND !S THE INTENSITY OF lAVORS GO DEEPER the plating a l s o , i t â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s the wines also became bolder while to recommended wine pairings. This is especially techniques. So we have nothing re- maintaining fruity profile: the Barrathe case with Indian food, which is known for its tried to create a tasting menu with those ally like what mundi in Banana Leaf was paired with RICH lAVORS AND OVERPOWERING SPICES factors in mind. The you think of Macon Rouge 2014 and entree of Duo Indian food. of Lamb (lamb rack and smoked lamb Taken by this challenge however, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wine pairing is not about the rules. result, every single We really want- cake) went with Pinot Noir Rouge 2016. Dusit Thani Manila, in cooperation Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not about cuisine or where the cui- dish has either an To end the tasting menu, the traditional ed people to say, with Le Cellier recently hosted an SINE IS COMING FROM )T S ABOUT lAVOR AND interpretation or an ingredient or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I have never seen Indian dessert of bebinca was paired with Indian-inspired French Wine Dinner experience,â&#x20AC;? he added. that before.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; All in the sweetest wine of the night, the Muscat to show that elevated Indian cuisine And experience it was that The Manila methods of preparing related to all, we made sure Blanc 2016. can well be enjoyed with sophisticated Times had for the special evening. the Indian cuiOverall, the event â&#x20AC;&#x201D; as in the words of that the combinaFrench wines. sine,â&#x20AC;? Van Leeution of spice ingredi- Marcel â&#x20AC;&#x201D; proved that when it comes to â&#x20AC;&#x153;People say Asian food doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go with Indian-inspired wen revealed ents and with French food and beverage, everything is possible. wine. So we said, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s break the stigma winery was perand pair the most exotic Asian food and Notoriously known for exotic and to The Manila Q Bebinca for a sweet ending is best fect,â&#x20AC;? the chef the most old school wine,â&#x20AC;? Marcel Marcel, tongue-tingling spices, it was a huge Times. paired with the Muscat Blanc 2016. added. A good exFood and Beverage director of Dusit Thani task for Dusit Thani Manilaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Executive Le Cellier French Manila told The Manila Times. Chef Rob Van Leeuwen to serve Indian ample of this was Wine Master Berthe Chicken Tikka ConsommĂŠ. nard Flour, shared Traditionally, chicken tikka masala has chunks of roasted marinated chicken in a the key point in pairing, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The challenge today was that normally, you spiced curry sauce. For Dusit Thaniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu, chef Van cannot pair wine with spicy food. It Leeuwen, had chicken meat marinated in IS VERY DIFkCULT BECAUSE WHEN YOU tikka masala and tandoori spice before pair wine and food, the wine should roasting and creating a broth out of it. By not kill the food and the food should the time it was presented as a meal, the not kill the wine.â&#x20AC;? The tendency is too spicy food presentation saw the addition of raita can completely kill the wine. foam, paneer chip and cilantro. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So what I did today is I chose Another sample is hot appetizer of Barramundi in Banana Leaf. It used relatively light and fruity so it was sambhar and idli, which is a traditional matching quiet well with the IndianIndian breakfast pairing of vegetable inspired food,â&#x20AC;? he added. For the lighter fair of Chickpea Q Barramundi all wrapped up and paired with stew and rice cake, and the spicy gun Q Duo of Lamb means lamb rack and smoked lamb cake on this serving plate, and best pancake and Spicy Asparagus, there Macon Rouge 2014. powder as added elements. enjoyed with a glass of Pinot Noir Rouge 2016. BY CHRISTINA ALPAD
I
National Food Fair highlights classic Filipino dishes with a twist WITH the aim to further promote Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. classic Filipino dishes and delicaâ&#x20AC;&#x153;Anong number one kapag cies, the Department of Trade and [nasa] abroad? Adobo at siniIndustry (DTI) held this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gang, tapos lahat pa ng klase ng National Food Fair on March 14 to 17 at the Mega Trade Hall of SM Megamall. More than just a trade fair, the annual eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal was to showcase how traditional ingredients can Q Arugula, walnut, and kesong puti salad with be used in dishes from chocolate vinaigrette by Chef Anton Abad. different cuisines and with various kakanin. Ito ang magiging focus ng support sa ating maraming cooking techniques. Guests were then treated to cuisines para makilala na [ang free samples from the large Filipino dishes and delicacies]. spread of booths. It really has to be supported and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hindi po ito para sa amin, made known,â&#x20AC;? explained Lopez. hindi ito para sa DTI. Ito ay para The kitchens were manned by talaga sa ating mga kababayan na award-winning chefs who have maliliit na negosyante,â&#x20AC;? opened provided live cooking demos usDTI secretary Ramon Lopez. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ngay- ing ingredients from each region. on ay naka-focus tayo sa food. Ang These chefs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Cherry Tan, Gabby mga Pilipino, mahilig kumain. Prats, Anton Abad, Vince Garcia, Just walking around, isang ikot pa Boy Logro, Raymund Yabut, and lang, napakaraming pagkain. Don Edward Quito â&#x20AC;&#x201C; have recreNakakabusog na, amoy pa lang.â&#x20AC;? ated regional specialties but were &OR THE kRST TIME SINCE IT WAS also innovative with just the use launched in 2013, the fair suc- of local ingredients. cessfully highlighted the diverse A number of these recipes indishes from all over the Philip- clude the twist of bamboo from pines, with separate kitchens Luzon, sugarcane from Visayas, and dining tables each meant for and cacao from Mindanao which
are some of their many specialties. The chefs agree that adding these ingredients to food is not just unique, but also very interesting when it COMES TO lAVOR AND PRESENTATION Those who watched the cooking demos saw and sampled the mouth-watering dishes including arugula, walnut, and kesong puti salad with chocolate vinaigrette;
all throughout to help introduce an important part of culture. 3IMPLY DEkNED AS FOOD OR INGREdients that were sourced in clean and ethical ways, these should not have any products that are prohibited by the Quâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ran and Islamic law. These should also be manufactured with equipment cleansed according to the Islamic Law. Despite having a large need for halal food for locals and tourists in the Philippines, it is still not as known as it should be. There are hardly any restaurants or Q Dinengdeng Malabong with Bagnet and dishes in the country Lumpiang Galunggong by Chef Boy Logro and THAT ARE CERTIkED SO BY Chef Sheila Lopez. giving these products a platform at the fair, DTI beef tapa using muscovado sugar; hopes for it to be the start to having rice roll stuffed with cream cheese, more halal products. dipped in chocolate, with dehyâ&#x20AC;&#x153;It should not be associated drated durian; chicken with mango just with religion. Dahil kung sugarcane chutney; and sour cream titignan natin, Halal is an extra pancakes with muscovado syrup CERTIkCATION OF AFkRMATION na ang â&#x20AC;&#x201C; truly showing how new takes on produkto ay malinis, napakafood can be made with simple in- pure, healthy. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lifestyle prodgredients that can easily be bought uct. Ganun ang perception at from any market or small business. positive attributes na idinidikit In addition to that, halal-certi- sa Halal products,â&#x20AC;? said Lopez. kED FOOD WERE GIVEN A SPOTLIGHT NIKA ROQUE
Âťnewsroomnibbles Get through deadlines with a glass of soy milk WHEN deadlines loom, it is easy to go hungry until the issue is put to bed. For when newsmen get busy, popping food into the mouth just gets in the way of beating the clock. Thankfully , a new product has just reached The Manila Times newsroom that can be had in one quick drink: a nutrient-rich treat that can power up, energize and keep one focused on the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s news for tomorrow. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s called Vitasoy Plus and this drink supplies the body with the required Calcium intake from regular milk plus other nutrients. Each glass or mug serving provides 50 percent of the daily Calcium and Vitamin D requirement â&#x20AC;&#x201D; important in building and
maintaining stronger bones. An ideal companion of fitness and wellness enthusiasts as it has zero cholesterol and is low in fat, it is best for those who are lactose intolerant yet still want to get a taste and enjoy the benefits of milk. The product is lactose-free, made from high quality non-GMO soybeans and has no added preservatives which makes it the ideal breakfast or snack partner to keep one strong and healthy. Produced by Universal Robina Corporation (URC) in partnership with Hong Kong-based Vitasoy International Holdings Ltd., this plant-based drink in original and oat flavors is now available in the Philippines.
Q Get nourished and energized even in the middle of the day with healthy soy milk.
Campus Press
A SECTION FOR THE STUDENTS, BY STUDENTS
Ë&#x153; The Manila Times w w w.manilatimes.net
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EDITOR: Marishelle R. Medina marishelle.medina@manilatimes.net
THURSDAY MARCH 28, 2019
Students feel relatively safe in U-belt â&#x20AC;&#x201C; study S BY NEIL JAYSON N. SERVALLOS
TUDENTS feel relatively safe walking at night along the streets of Recto and Morayta in Manila, according to a safe urban mobility project study of the Far Eastern University Public Policy Center (FEU-PPC). A street safety audit of the FEUPPC showed that key areas in the University Belt (U-Belt), particularly those near their campus in Recto, have high safety levels during nighttime. 5 "ELT IS THE UNOFkCIAL NAME OF a de facto subdistrict in Manila, which is home to a high concentration or a cluster of colleges and universities in the city, including FEU, the University of Santo Tomas, University of the East, National University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines,
among others. The FEU think-tank made use of 10 groups, comprised of six students each, to audit several areas around the U-Belt area at 8 to 9:30 p.m. The participants consisted of 41 male students and 19 female students. The groups were respectively assigned to walk CM Recto Avenue, Quezon Boulevard, Lerma Street, Nicanor Reyes Street (Morayta), SH Loyola Street, Plaza Miranda, Quiapo, EspaĂąa Boulevard, P. Paredes, R. Papa
Street and Legarda Street. The students were instructed to score safety factors of the areas every 100 meters of walking based on safety parameters, such as pedestrian volume, street lighting, urban design, presence of public transport, security, among others. The total score per area was transmitted with 5 as the highest and 0 as the lowest, as provided by the auditing mobile application used by the study. Transportation advocate and economist Robery Siy 3rd, who presented the study, said that while the study showed that most areas had good or excellent safety score, most areas had poor security presence and/or street lighting. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What we can say is that based on our audit, a certain area may be high, based on certain parameters. What can be reported is there are certain pa-
rameters that an area might have low scores while they are higher in others. We want to identify what certain areas are needed to be improved,â&#x20AC;? Siy said. The areas that rated high were Paquita Street and EspaĂąa Boulevard, which received a 4.9 rating, R. Papa and SH Loyola streets with 4.3, and Adelina and Delos Reyes streets with 4.8. The area with the lowest rating was Buenviaje Street and Severino Street with 0.3, which had little to no lighting, foot traffic, without security presence and poor urban design. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The areas with the lowest rating are the areas where students felt most unsafe and needs to be improved,â&#x20AC;? Siy said. Siy said the study also saw a sharp difference between the tendency to give high and low scores between male and female
participants. Female auditors gave significantly lower safety scores compared to male auditors in areas at the U-belt, an occurrence that was most evident with the street lighting parameter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This indicat[es] that women need to observe higher levels of lighting than men in order to rate an area as safe,â&#x20AC;? Siy said. The project also noted that areas in U-Belt posted low scores in the security parameter due to lack of visibility of police and other security personnel. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the lowest safety indicators in the study is the lack of security. We still need to conduct a more in-depth study of the areas for validation,â&#x20AC;? Siy said. Urban planner Paulo Alcazaren, panel reactor to the study, urged the government to enforce security measures, such as ensuring that
sidewalks being used by students and pedestrians had adequate lighting and cleared of illegal vendors and other obstructions. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In other countries, the government always provides safe spaces for cars, safe sidewalks for pedestrians but we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the same thing. [The] government cannot be absolved of their responsibility to provide safe streets and sidewalks [that are] well lit,â&#x20AC;? Alcazaren said in an interview with reporters on the sidelines of the forum. Despite the study being able to contradict the usual impression that the U-belt area is unsafe, Siy CLARIkED THAT THE RESULTS COULD NOT be perceived by the public as a dekNITIVE CLAIM THAT THE AREA WAS SAFE â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still a work in progress,â&#x20AC;? he explained. FEU-PPC said it would audit the safety situation in other areas near the U-Belt.
Applications open for the 3rd Asean Data Science Explorers THE Asean Foundation and cloud company SAP have launched the call for applications for the Asean Data Science Explorers (AseanDSE) 2019, targeted at tertiary students across all 10 Asean member states to harness the power of data to help solving the most pressing developmental issues in the region. Asean refers to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which is comprised of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines The AseanDSE aims to galvanize youth activism among Asean students increasing their information and communication technology competencies and transforming them into innovators, who are capable of delivering data-driven recommendations and solutions that help contribute to the achievement of Asean communi-
Q Students in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) are called to take part in the 3rd Annual Asean Data Science Explorers, which aims to tap the youthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creativity in solving developmental issues. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO tyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goals. Since its introduction in 2017, it has empowered over 5,000 youths from 287 higher education institutions in the region and has been
recognized by 10 Asean leaders, 3ENIOR /FkCIALS -EETING ON 9OUTH AND 3ENIOR /FkCIALS -EETING ON Education for its contribution to youth development.
The competition will be carried out from February to October 2019, kickstarting with informative enablement sessions organized for students and lecturers
French Embassy launches scholarship program for Filipinos THE Embassy of France to the Philippines is now accepting applications for the PhilFrance SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR THE !CADEMIC 9EAR 2019-2020. The PhilFrance Scholarship is a French government scholarship directed to Filipino students and professionals wishing to come to France to pursue masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or doctorate degree programs in all academic disciplines. )T IS AWARDED TO HIGHLY QUALIkED CANDIDATES who have demonstrated strong academic and leadership qualities in their scholarly and professional activities. Since 2016, over 40 Filipino scholars are currently pursuing or have recently completed their graduate degrees in the French language and literature, business, public policy and governance, engineering, mathematics, marine biology, applied chemistry, environmental and ecological sciences, and public health. Each year, over 300,000 international students choose to study in France, making it the fourth most attractive country and the leading
non-Englishs speaking destination for inbound student mobility, according to the United .ATIONS %DUCATIONAL 3CIENTIkC AND #ULTURAL Organization. For todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mobile and globalized youth, including those from the Philippines, France is an attractive destination for studying abroad due to its rich culture and history, as well as the high concentration of internationally ranked French institutions with English as the medium of instruction. Moreover, public investments and subsidies allow a more reasonable cost of living and studying for international students in France compared to others in the region. France also offers a wide range of specializations in line with the development goals of the Philippines. These include academic and research programs on sustainable development, disaster risk reduction and mitigation, social innovation and entrepreneurship, and public policy. It is estimated that over 250 Filipino students currently reside in France, with many of them pursuing degrees in world-renowned institu-
tions of higher learning. Most Filipinos studying in France are part of undergraduate exchange programs between partner institutions or pursue masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degrees IN THE kELDS OF BUSINESS NATURAL SCIENCES AND engineering, social sciences and humanities. PhilFrance scholarship program benefits include a partial tuition subsidy, a monthly allowance, a healthcare package, and priority access to public student accommodations for the expected length of their academic programs. Details and guidelines on eligibility, AWARDEES BENEkTS AND APPLICATION REQUIREments and submission are available through the PhilFrance Scholarship Program website at www.philfrance-scholarships.com. This website also contains useful information for applicants to explore higher education institutions and programs offered in France. Interested candidates must submit their applications no later than April 30, 2019 at 4 p.m. For more information, contact manille@ campusfrance.org.
ERASMUS+ COOPERATION University of Santo Tomas (UST) journalism program head Felipe Salvosa 2nd (center) is photographed with students of the College of Social and Media Culture (WSKSiM) of Torun, Poland after giving lectures about the Philippines and its political situation. The lectures were part of the academic cooperation between UST and WSKSiM, supported by the Erasmus+ program of the European Union. Also in the photo is WSKSiM Vice Rector Maria Laska.
in local institutions of higher learning across all 10 Asean member states to improve their data analytics skills and knowledge. The enablement sessions will then be followed with a national and regional data analytics competition where successful youth applicants will converge to present, utilizing SAPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Analytics Cloud software, data-driven proposals which highlight issues in Asean across six United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), namely good health and wellbeing (SDG 3), quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9) and sustainable cities and communities (SDG11). In order to take part in the competition, students are required to form a pair to register
for the competition and submit their proposals. One participating pair from each member state will stand a chance to be CROWNED AS THE NATIONAL kNALIST before advancing to compete in the regional finals. At the highest honor of the regional kNALS THE NATIONAL kNALISTS will be given the opportunity to present their winning ideas to a panel of judges, which consists of distinguished representatives from the Asean Foundation, SAP AND VARIOUS GOVERNMENT OFkCIALS and selected nongovernment organizations. Coinciding with Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Asean Chairmanship in 2019, this YEAR S REGIONAL kNALS WILL BE HELD IN Bangkok on Oct. 16, 2019. The call for applications for the AseanDSE 2019 will close on May 10, 2019. For further information about the AseanDSE, please visit www. a s e a n d s e. o r g o r e m a i l a s e andse@sap.com.
NAPSPhil invites concerned teachers to general assembly THE National Alliance of Private Schools Philippines (NAPSPhil) is inviting private school administrators and academic stakeholders to attend and express their concern at the NAPSPhil General Assembly on April 13, 2019 at the Lyceum of the Philippines University-Laguna. NAPSPhil recognizes the need to prioritize the budget for education FOR THE BENEkT OF TEACHERS IN THE Philippines with the help of the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers for Private Education Law (Gastpe). Some provisions, especially the Teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Salary Subsidy Fund, however, are not being upheld, according to NAPSPhil. As such, with the upcoming increase of salaries for teachers in public schools, teachers from private schools are expected to shift to the public school system. The general assembly aims to raise issues regarding the rights of public and private school teachers, such as the disparity of salary of private and public school teachers, massive migration of private school teachers to public school despite having an existing contract, control of the Department of Education (DepEd) over the private institutions instead of supervision, inconsistent implementation of national or regional DepEd order or memo, and the creation of the Bureau of Private Education of DepEd that will oversee the need of the private schools. Invited speakers will include those who have expressed interest in aiding private and public school teachers, including President Rodrigo Duterte who, according to a Daily Tribune article, said he was open
to have a discussion with legitimate teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; groups addressing the issue on salary increase. Also invited are private schools advocate Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada and reelectionist Sen. Paolo g"AMu !QUINO TH WHO kLED AND sponsored Senate Bill (SB) 2057 or the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Teachers Compensation and Support act of 2018.â&#x20AC;? SB 2057 aims to enhance the compensation support system for all teachers in basic education institutions, as well as creating an assistance fund for teachers. Those who have also showed their support for private teachers and invited speakers include Taguig City Mayor Maria Laarni â&#x20AC;&#x153;Laniâ&#x20AC;? Cayetano, who provides a budget for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Local Educational Service Contractionâ&#x20AC;? program in her municipality through DepEdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gastpe program, Senate candidates Luther â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lotâ&#x20AC;? Meniano, who is pushing for a House bill that will create a Private Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Commission, and Appropriating Funds that will be included in all levels of education, former Senate president Juan Ponce Enrile, who has supported the salary increase for private school teachers, and National Executive Director of the Private Education Assistance Committee Prof. Rhodara Angela Ferrer. The assembly will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is a registration fee of P500 per person to be collected by the provincial level private school associations in order to provide attendees two snacks, lunch and other incidental expenses. Deadline of payment is April 5, 2019. OFELYN DATUIN
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Campus Press
The Ë&#x153;Manila Times w w w.manilatimes.net
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
A full-dress review of English preposition usage â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1
HE prepositions are perhaps the most hardworking part of speech of the English language. They give sentences that much-needed sense of place and time and logic, without which they could plunge into a netherworld of incoherence. There are prepositions that establish relationships in space, prepositions of movement and direction, and prepositions of time, date and duration. They come in so many kinds and do so many things. In fact, one simply cannot become a good writer or speaker in English until the prepositions have become second nature to his or her ears and tongue. Be forewarned at the very outset that unlike nouns and verbs, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no telling how certain prepositions may fit until they
ARE USED IN SPECIkC CONTEXTS &OR instance, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s this much-touted formal rule for choosing among the prepositions of place and location: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Live at an address, in a house or city, on a street, with other people.â&#x20AC;? That rule makes â&#x20AC;&#x153;atâ&#x20AC;? look and sound perfect for this sentence, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The building is located at Fort Bonifacioâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D; but only for as long as we think of Fort Bonifacio as an address. When saying that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a Fort Bonifacio resident, however, â&#x20AC;&#x153;inâ&#x20AC;? seems a much better choice: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I live in Fort Bonifacio.â&#x20AC;? What
ENGLISH PLAIN AND SIMPLE
JOSE A. CARILLO this means is that with certain prepositions, we just have to learn to play it by ear.
Prepositions that establish relationships in space Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s start with the prepositions that establish relationships in space, or those that indicate the place and location of something. The staple prepositions for this purpose are, of course, â&#x20AC;&#x153;in,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;atâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;on,â&#x20AC;? and the general rule for using them is â&#x20AC;&#x153;inâ&#x20AC;? for an enclosed space, â&#x20AC;&#x153;atâ&#x20AC;? for a point, and â&#x20AC;&#x153;onâ&#x20AC;? for a surface.
Use â&#x20AC;&#x153;inâ&#x20AC;? for spaces: â&#x20AC;&#x153;They always meet in a secret room (in a suburban hotel, in a parking lot, in a farm, in A RICEkELD u 5SE gINu FOR NAMES OF SPECIkC land areas: â&#x20AC;&#x153;She lives in a quiet town (in Tagaytay, in Cavite, in Southern Tagalog, in the island of Palawan, in the Philippines, in Southeast Asia). Use â&#x20AC;&#x153;inâ&#x20AC;? for bodies of water: g4HAT KIND OF kSH THRIVES in freshwater (in rivers, in lakes, in streams, in the sea).â&#x20AC;? Use â&#x20AC;&#x153;inâ&#x20AC;? for lines: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The registrants are in a row (in a line, in a queue).â&#x20AC;? Use â&#x20AC;&#x153;atâ&#x20AC;? to indicate points: g9OU LL kND US at the entrance (at the taxi stand, at the supermarket, at the intersection).â&#x20AC;? 5SE gATu FOR SPECIkC ADDRESSES â&#x20AC;&#x153;She lives at 40 Lilac St.â&#x20AC;? Use â&#x20AC;&#x153;onâ&#x20AC;? for names of streets,
roads, avenues, and boulevards: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Her apartment is on San Pablo Street (on Ortigas Avenue, on Santolan Road, on Roxas Boulevard).â&#x20AC;? Use â&#x20AC;&#x153;onâ&#x20AC;? for surfaces: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a large stain on THE lOOR on the wall, on the ceiling, on the roof).â&#x20AC;? Use â&#x20AC;&#x153;inâ&#x20AC;? in these cases: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The children are in the kitchen (in the garden, in the car, in the library, in class, in school). (The article â&#x20AC;&#x153;theâ&#x20AC;? is mandatory except for the fourth and last example.) Use â&#x20AC;&#x153;atâ&#x20AC;? in these particular cases: â&#x20AC;&#x153;She was at home (at the library, at THE OFkCE at school, at work) when we arrived.â&#x20AC;? Use â&#x20AC;&#x153;onâ&#x20AC;? in these particular cases: â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are on the plane (on the train, on the boat).â&#x20AC;? Some locations, though, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need a preposition between them and the verb: â&#x20AC;&#x153;They sleep downstairs (inside, outside, downtown,
upstairs, uptown).â&#x20AC;? Keep in mind that these guideLINES ARE SPECIkCALLY FOR !MERICAN English, the standard in general use in the Philippines. There are some important usage variations in British English. As they say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Londoners live in a street and stay in farm cottages at WEEKENDS u BUT g.EW 9ORKERS AND English-speaking Manilans live on a street and stay in farm cottages on weekends.â&#x20AC;? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take up the prepositions of movement and direction next week. (Next: A full-dress review of English preposition usage - 2) Visit Jose Carilloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s English Forum, http://josecarilloforum. com, and on Facebook, https:// www.facebook.com/jacarillo. Follow me at Twitter.com @J8Carillo. E-mail: j8carillo@yahoo.com.
Metrobank Foundation Inc. grants award to educator-sculptor Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI) recently bestowed the prestigious Award for Continuing Excellence and Service (ACES) to sculptor and educator Mervy Pueblo for her consistent adherence to the highest standards of performance in the visual arts scene. The ACES distinction is conferred to outstanding &ILIPINOS FROM THE kELDS OF THE VISUAL ARTS EDUCATION journalism and military, who exhibited unprecedented excellence in their chosen careers. 0UEBLO S MODIkED CONCRETE PIECE gSpecimenâ&#x20AC;? previously won the Special Citation for the Sculpture Category at the Metrobank Art and Design Excellence (MADE) Awards. Selected artists are evaluated based on continuing exceptional practice, mentorship towards their fellows, the impact they have left in their communities, and their national and international recognitions. They must likewise come from the roster of former MADE winners. Pueblo, whose thought-provoking art forms currently explore human relationships and raise concerns in human and environmental ecology, has earned her place, not just in the local scene
,but also in exhibitions overseas. She likewise took up residencies around the world, such as in Vietnam (2007), Russia (2008), Korea (2011), France (2014), Malaysia (2016) and, most recently, in Japan (2019). The Fullbright scholar also received a number of recognitions, such as the Ethel Morrison Van Derlip Awards in the United States in 2013 and the Thirteen Artist Awards by the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2015. In a previous interview, the sculptor shared that she strives â&#x20AC;&#x153;to make work that serves a valuable purpose â&#x20AC;&#x201D; either to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;cureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; a space, to drive people to think for themselves and assess the matters in our contemporary world, or for the work itself to result into positive social change.â&#x20AC;? After years of sharing her artistry around the world, from 2016 till today, Pueblo has found her calling as professor of the Industrial Design Program in De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, where she imparts her knowledge and experience to future innovators. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The ACES award has motivated me to continue helping STUDENTS TO kND THEIR AUTHENTIC VOICE AS A PERSON AND as artists,â&#x20AC;? she said.
Q Award for Continuing Excellence and Service awardee Mervy Pueblo (left) with Metrobank Foundation Board of Advisers Chairman Retired chief justice Artemio Panganiban. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Bulacan State University student wins UST painting competition
Q The winning artists with their works and organizers of the 2019 University of Santo Tomas (UST) Annual Inter-School On-the-Spot Painting Competition led by UST Museum Director Rev. Fr. Isidro AbaĂąo, OP (top row, right) CONTRIBUTED PHOTO A Bulacan Sate University (BSU) student won the 2019 University of Santo Tomas Annual Inter-School On-the-Spot Painting Competition (UST-OTSPC) at the UST Benavides Garden. For his painting â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kaleidoscope,â&#x20AC;? BSU student Steven John Natal of BSU won the competition organized by the UST Museum in celebration of the Philippine Arts Month. Colleges and universities in and around Metro Manila were invited to send up to 25 fine arts students each to compete in the oldest student art competition of its kind. With the theme â&#x20AC;&#x153;Viewing the Shades of Love,â&#x20AC;? participants were given the opportunity to share their sentiments and ideas about love through visual art. The awarding ceremonies and exhibit opening were held later that same day at 6 p.m. at the Main Building lobby, where the winning works were on display until February 2019. Second place was â&#x20AC;&#x153;(IN) COMPLETEâ&#x20AC;?
DLSU Fellow receives NRCP Achievement Award in Engineering and Industrial Research DE la Salle University (DLSU) Fellow and Full Professor Dr. Anthony Shun Fung Chiu of the Industrial Engineering Department received the 2018 National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) Achievement Award in Engineering and Industrial Research last March 11. The award was presented to Chiu at the Annual Scientific Conference and General Assembly of the NRCP, on the basis of his EXTENSIVE AND INlUENTIAL BODY OF work in industrial ecology and sustainable consumption and
production. Chiuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milestone also marks the third consecutive year that a faculty member of the DLSU Gokongwei College of Engineering has won the award. Winners from the previous years are Dr. Kathleen Aviso and Dr. Michael Angelo Promentilla, both from the Chemical Engineering Department. They were recognized in 2016 and 2017, respectively. The NRCP gives the achievement award annually in recognition of a researcherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outstanding body of work in his or her discipline.
Q â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Kaleidoscopeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by Steven John Natal of Bulacan State University wins first place. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
by Christian Casimiro from Far Eastern University and third place was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Homeâ&#x20AC;? by Allan Dale Licaros from Eulogio â&#x20AC;&#x153;Amangâ&#x20AC;? Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (Earist). â&#x20AC;&#x153;Love Existsâ&#x20AC;? by Christian Jame Maglente, who is also from Earist, won the Metrobank Choice Award. The first honorable mention was awarded to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tunay na pagmamahalâ&#x20AC;? by Warren Tanguilig of Earist, while the second honorable mention went to John Rowell Correa of BSU for his work â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sa kabilang pagsubok.â&#x20AC;? The third honorable mention was awarded to Louis Rafael Espinosa of UST for his painting â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nothing is impossible.â&#x20AC;? The winners received cash prizes, gift items and gift certificates. The first prize winner received P40,000, the second prize winner took home P30,000 and the third prize winner collected P20,000. The contest had its origins in 1941, when UST presented major art events that made a mark in Philippine art history. Then Rector Magnificus, Rev. Fr.
Silvestre Sancho, OP, sponsored the first National Art Competition, and an exhibition of all 93 participating entries was mounted at the University Gymnasium. Some of the winners of the originating competition were eventually included in list of young artists who showed modernist inclinations, known as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;13 Moderns,â&#x20AC;? compiled by the former head of the UST Department of Architecture and National Artist Prof. Victorio Edades. They were Vicente Manansala, Ricarte Puruganan, Galo Ocampo and Arsenio Capili. In the years following the contest, the initiative of the First National Art Competition became the UST-OTSPC. This became one of the most anticipated campus activities participated in by Fine Arts Students in Metro Manila and nearby areas. Several student winners of the UST-OTSPC are now celebrated names in the contemporary art scene, among them are Ronald Ventura, Mark Salvatus and Raffy Napay.
Q Dr. Anthony Shun Fung Chiu (right) receiving an award from Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato Tanseco de la PeĂąa CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The Campus Press welcomes contributions from students of all levels.Students can submit their written works in English, artworks, photographs, cartoons and other works to marishelle.medina@manilatimes.net with the subject line: Campus Press. Please include your name, grade or year level, and name of school. Thank you!
Ë&#x153; The Manila Times
w w w.manilatimes.net
Dusit Hospitality Management College holds Ă&#x20AC;UVW 3+ FDPSXV WRXU
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
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THE second batch of students and parents were toured at the first ever campus of the Dusit Hospitality Management College (DHMC) in the Philippines in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig last March 23. Although construction is still ongoing, the campus tour showcased â&#x20AC;&#x153;high-touchâ&#x20AC;? (different outlets for student learning) and â&#x20AC;&#x153;high-techâ&#x20AC;? (modern technology in amenities and infrastructure) facilities, as well as the latest audiovisual (AV) learning equipment that can be found in the library, classrooms, learning centers, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the vaultâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;the screening roomâ&#x20AC;? function rooms, hotel operation simulation areas, think tank for student collaboration as well as their cooking areas. The campus also features eight different dining areas that vary in theme and taste, namely the All day Dining, Tapas Bar, Grab & Go, Chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Table, Food Hall, Learning Restaurant, Wine Science Room and Rooftop Bar. The first Philippine campus of the famous Thai hotel chain and multinational hospitality company, Dusit International, partnered with esteemed hospitality management schools such as Ă&#x2030;cole hĂ´telière de Lausanne (EHL) and the Institut Paul Bocuse of France to provide students with worldclass training, education and programs for culinary arts, hospitality and food service management through their innovative curriculum. Frouke Gerbens, managing director and acting dean of DHMC said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This program is different first and foremost because its focus, its emphasis is developing the future management talent for the hospitality industry.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;By looking at the program weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve put together, that is really to teach the people here in the Philippines who have that ambition to be leaders in the industry, to teach you the management skills and the leadership skills to take on those positions in hospitality and to be exemplary hospitality leaders not only h e re i n t h e P h i l i p p i n e s, not only in Asia, but in the world,â&#x20AC;? she added. DHMC Culinary Arts Di-
rector and Master Chef of France Cyrille Soenen boasts of their accredited and qualified learning instructions and curriculum with their partners that would allow their students to graduate â&#x20AC;&#x153;job-ready [and] with a notable competitive edge.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The integrated model enables students to experience progressive stages and roles in hotel and restaurant operations. This inspires me to be able to share my knowledge to the next generation of chefs just as I was taught by my mentors,â&#x20AC;? he said in a statement. Aaron Palma and Ramon Perez, students of DHMC based in Dusit Thani Hotel Manila, shared their experience and what interested enrollees can expect to learn. They were able to cook alongside Chef Cyrille and serve their dishes to VIP guests, worked in different hotels as a concierge, in the kitchen, housekeeping, and had their internship as early as their first year studying. Perez admitted that he was once intimidated by the professionals around him during his immersion, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You will be tested, your skills, how strong you are emotionally, I am slowly becoming jobready and work with other people. They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t treat me as an intern, but as a colleague.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;If doctors are here to fix peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health, us in the service industry, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to fix peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smiles, to make their experiences memorable,â&#x20AC;? Palma said as he talked about how taking hotel management brought him fulfilment. DHMC will officially open its doors in August of this year and is accepting enrollees who are interested in venturing into culinary arts and hospitality management. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here to start the campus season just to showcase the property, although not in its entirety, [it is a] â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;what to look forward toâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; especially this coming August for potential students who might want to enroll, what are the facilities available or what DHMC has to offer,â&#x20AC;? DHMC Front Office manager Edgar Silvestre said. OFELYN DATUIN
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Educating the youth, key out of extreme poverty
XTREME poverty continues to afflict the country. In 2015, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the subsistence incidence among Filipino families â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that is, the proportion of families living in extreme poverty â&#x20AC;&#x201D; was at 5.7 percent.
Q Master Chef Cyrille Soenen gives a tour of the Dusit Hospitality Management Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kitchen area to parents and students. PHOTO BY OFELYN DATUIN
Campus Press
â&#x20AC;&#x153;This means that around 1.3 million Filipino families still canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford their basic needs,â&#x20AC;? explains Norman Jiao, executive director of the Association of Foundations (AF). AF is the Education Cluster Lead for the Zero Extreme Poverty 2030 (ZEP203 0). In the face of extreme poverty, FAMILIES OFTEN SACRIkCE THE EDUCAtion of children, opting to put the little money that they have in more immediate needs. According to the 2016 Annual Poverty Indicators Survey, almost 10 percent of the estimated 39 million Filipinos 6 to 24 years old were out-of-school chilDREN AND YOUTH /3#9 4HE MOST COMMON REASONS AMONG /3#9S FOR not attending school were marriage or family matters, high cost of eduCATION OR kNANCIAL CONCERNS AND LACK of personal interest. ZEP2030 is a movement composed of nongovernment entities (NGEs) that aim to end extreme poverty in the Philippines by 2030. It has organized itself into seven clusters, each one working in a speCIkC AREA WHERE EXTREME POVERTY MAY be addressed: Health, Education, Environment, Livelihood, Agriculture and Fisheries, Housing and Shelter, and Partnerships for Indigenous
Peoples (IP). The Education cluster focuses on communities where children and the youth have limited access to education, training, and employment opportunities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We envision a Philippines where children and the youth can complete their basic education through formal or informal delivery modes, leading to gainful employment or self-employment so that they can ultimately contribute to their familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s income. Every Filipino child deserves quality education â&#x20AC;&#x201D; it is their ticket to a better future,â&#x20AC;? Jiao said. Currently, the Education cluster serves communities in Bukidnon, Sarangani, Lanao del Sur, Eastern 3AMAR AMONG OTHERS )T HAS PROkLED more than 3,200 families in these areas, with the end of providing suitable programs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We use the Poverty Probability Index and the Family and Community Visioning module to determine the actual number of out-of-school children and youth as well as to better understand the situation of their families and communities, and how we can work together to address their needs,â&#x20AC;? says Jiao. Initial commitments of local stake-
holders and ZEP2030 members and partners are secured, and implementation of programs and projects has started based on the articulated aspirations of the families and the plans discussed by the communities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While it is too early to see the improvements brought about by the interventions under ZEP2030, it brings us great joy to see families, communities, and the children seize the opportunity to actively participate in the development process,â&#x20AC;? Jiao said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The visioning exercises revealed that most children from impoverished families have the desire â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and if given the chance, the perseverance â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to go to school. They believe education is their way out of poverty,â&#x20AC;? he added. With the gaps and the needs of the pilot communities identified, Jiao hopes to engage more members and partners for the Education cluster. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With more partners, we would be able to provide the appropriate program INTERVENTIONS TO THE BENEkCIARY COMMUnities, particularly to their out-of-school children and youth,â&#x20AC;? he said. Built on the spirit of collaboration to bring inclusive prosperity and development to communities, ZEP2030â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interventions are guided by the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, creating collective impact to lift families from extreme poverty and achieve SELF SUFkCIENCY ZEP2030 welcomes local partners and donors that can provide support for the implementation of poverty eradication programs. Organizations can also join any of the seven clusters
or any of the programs implemented by ZEP. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Each organization brings value into the partnership, not only in terms of funding and program interventions, but also in their capacity to mobilize and sustain the engagement of communities and other stakeholders,â&#x20AC;? Jiao said. Currently, the Education cluster has around 30 active member organizations, which serve as local convenors and program implementers. These member organizations include the Assisi Development Foundation, Caritas Borongan, Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Del Monte Foundation, De La Salle University Science Foundation, Gerry Roxas Foundation, Jollibee Group Foundation, the Philippine Business for Social Progress, and Sarangani Province Empowerment and Community Transformation Forum. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The ZEP2030 coalition has started to make a difference by reaching out to over 10,000 families these past two years. Collectively, our programs and interventions have spanned 109 cities and municipalities in 33 provinces and 15 regions across the country. With our eyes set on 2030, we are pushing to grow our members to help more communities and families, including INFORMAL SETTLERS FARMERS kSHERFOLK and indigenous peoples,â&#x20AC;? Jiao said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We believe that, through largescale collaboration and multiple partnerships at various levels, we can make zero extreme poverty a reality,â&#x20AC;? he added.
Adamson University bags Best Film in 1st EcoVision Short Film Competition ADAMSON University bagged the top prize at the first ever Epson %CO6ISION SHORT kLM COMPETITION hosted by Epson Philippines Corp. in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) and GREENducation Philippines. 4HE INTERSCHOOL kLM CONTEST held on March 15 was aimed to awaken the artistry of young &ILIPINO kLMMAKERS IN RAISING public understanding of the environment through the production of Public Service Announcements (PSA). 4EN kNALISTS FROM VARIOUS SCHOOLS in Metro Manila, Region 3, and Region 4-A competed for the P100,000 CASH PRIZE 4HE WINNING 03! kLMS were judged based on their storyline, content, technical execution, social media engagement and adherence to the theme, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Green Solutions for Everyday Life at Home, 3CHOOL OR /FkCE u Showcasing the appalling effects of the plastic pollution situation invading the human food chain, Adamson UniversiTY S gĂ&#x203A;#ANT9OU3EEu BAGGED THE top prize and secured the title of BEST kLM OF THE NIGHT WITH THEIR portrayal of a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attempt to live a sustainable lifestyle. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wake Up Callâ&#x20AC;? from the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) and the Polytechnic University of the Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (PUP) â&#x20AC;&#x153;Para sa Ikabobote
Q From left: Donna Ferro, brand and communications head for Epson Philippines, and representatives from Adamson University, Ateneo de Manila University and Polytechnic University of the Philippines during the EcoVision Short Film Competition Awarding CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
ng Lahatâ&#x20AC;? CLAIMED kRST AND SECOND runner ups, respectively. The Far Eastern University (FEU) WAS ALSO AWARDED FOR ITS kLM â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pagsapit ng Alas Sais ng Umaga ng Hating Gabiâ&#x20AC;? as Best Production Design. The award for Best Cinematography was given to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Pasoâ&#x20AC;? from PUP and the award for Best Sound Editing was bagged by ADMU for THEIR kLM g7AKE 5P #ALLu Award-winning director Brillante Mendoza, a member of the selection committee, encouraged the STUDENTS TO CONTINUE MAKING kLMS that spread awareness and inspire action for environmental protection and preservation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Congratulations to all the winNERS OF %PSON %CO6ISION kLM FESTI-
val. Let us go out of the box, magkwento tayo ng mga bagay at mga kwentong pamilyar na saatin. Ikwento din natin ang mga kwentong dapat ikwento at dapat malaman ng tao. (Tell stories of things and stories that are familiar. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also tell stories that people should tell and should know),â&#x20AC;? he said in a statement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The pioneer batch of the EcoVision Short Film Competition presented inspiring work from student visionaries,â&#x20AC;? said Donna Ferro, brand and communications head of Epson Philippines. The competition aimed to strengthen the commitment of Epson to be in harmony with the community and its environment, making sure that the impact of
their manufacturing processes were minimized. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very happy to be working together with DENR-EMB and also through GREENducation Philippines and through this, with their guidance, we are getting advice from them on how to continue this respect for the environment.â&#x20AC;? Senior General Manager of Epson Philippines Edward Bonoan said in a statement. 4HE kNAL ENTRIES FROM THE %COVision Short Film Competition will also serve as an informational tool for DENR-EMB and its youth arm, GREENducation Philippines, for its ongoing and future environmental awareness projects. REVA MARCELO
Artworks of Hope BY LIEZELLE ROY AND MARK CRUZET THE MANILA TIMES COLLEGE HE has discovered his talent late in life. Even so, he has found meaning in art and paints a colorful hope in this world full of darkness.  Edgardo Lam, 65, is a homeless artist who has lived on the street together with his youngest son for about 10 years. The painter, who makes his home along Padre Faura Street in Ermita, Manila, went viral after a netizen posted his photos.  To sustain their everyday needs, Tatay Edgardo depends on the small amount of money from the people who park their cars along the street. But, sometimes, his earnings are still not enough.  In his late 60s, however, he discov-
ered he could paint. Now, he has been painting for three years. Due to lack of materials, he came up with the idea of using recycled plywoods as his painting board.  Tatay Edgardo said that he does not â&#x20AC;&#x153;copyâ&#x20AC;? his works from other things. He just follows whatever his brush comes up with.  â&#x20AC;&#x153; Parang tsamba ba, hindi ako kumokopya kung ano lang ang lumabas dun sa brush k o tinutuloy ko, ganun lang ,â&#x20AC;? Tatay Edgardo said in an interview with The Manila Times .   Tatay Edgardo sells his artworks to get an extra income, part of which goes to his grandchildrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs.  Obviously, art is not a stable source
Q Edgardo Lam painting along Padre Faura Street PHOTO BY LIEZELLE ROY
Q Sample art works of Edgardo Lam PHOTO BY LIEZELLE ROY of income. Tatay Edgardo said that prior to becoming viral, he usually sold two paintings a month at P250 to P400 each.  After his photo reached over 20,000 shares on Facebook, netizens have
donated art materials, clothes and groceries. Many have sought him out and bought his artworks.  â&#x20AC;&#x153;Malaki ang pasasalamat ko sa kanila. Nang dahil sa kanila nagkaroon
ako ng mga pintura, brush, at habang tumatagal, mas marami nang bumibili na malaking tulong sakin. Minsan, dinadalhan pa nila ako ng grocery, damit,â&#x20AC;? he said.  Despite poverty, he still sees the
bright side of life, which reflects in his colorful artworks.  Tatay Edgardo is a reminder for everyone that it is never too late to discover oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talent and to pursue oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion.
Campus Press
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The Ë&#x153;Manila Times w w w.manilatimes.net
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
Through the lens of William Orsua Emilio Aguinaldo College photo exhibit features landscape photos by alumnus
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BY CATHERINE A. MODESTO
HE Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) in Manila displayed a collection of images of 11 world-famous landscapes captured by its alumnus, Canada-based photographer William Orsua. Among the photographs featured were his home in Vancouver, Northern Lights and Lofoten in Norway, as well as the panoramic view of Arizona, US and Alberta, Canada. Orsua said his photos went beyond â&#x20AC;&#x153;point and shoot.â&#x20AC;? Capturing a good shot takes a combination of time, skill and, most of all, â&#x20AC;&#x153;heart.â&#x20AC;? The professional photographer expressed hope that when people look at his photographs, they would think â&#x20AC;&#x153;unique, soulful and Filipino class.â&#x20AC;? The exhibit would be at the EAC lobby in San Marcelino Street, Ermita in Manila until the weekend, but it would be displayed in stairs, EAC president Jose Paolo Campos said. Man behind the lens â&#x20AC;&#x153;An accident.â&#x20AC;? This was how Orsua recalled the beginning of his photography journey. Before opening his own company, Soul Mate Productions, which offers photography service, including workshops on landscape and portrait, he was a respiratory therapist at the Vancouver General Hospital in Canada. !FTER kNISHING RESPIRATORY THERapy studies in EAC in 1998 and working at Saint Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medical Center, he headed for Australia for
a year and a half to study information technology. He worked in Saudi Arabia and Prince George in Canada before settling in Vancouver in 2010. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I sold my car, and this guy who was buying my car was short by $500. This was in 2000. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Can I pay you with a camera (Nikon D90),â&#x20AC;&#x2122; he asked me. I replied: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;What am I going to do with a camera. I am not into photography?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; But it looks so good, so I went to the electronics shop and checked out the price. He only owed me $500, I said, while the camera was close to US$2,000, so I said, okay I will say yes,â&#x20AC;? Orsua said. He called him the next day, and the rest, as they say, is history. Orsua started learning how to shoot photos; then he met photographers who became his mentor-friends. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was so consistent. I would not stop shooting. I would always shoot. I am self-taught, and at the same time, I was introduced to great photographers who eventually became my mentors. And everything just fell into place,â&#x20AC;? However, since photography was a lucrative hobby, he said that it took a toll on his relationship with his wife. So, to save both his passion and marriage, he had to have a side hustle or other sources of income.
Q â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Atlantic Villageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Hamnoy, Norway by William Orsua
Q â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Magic in Motionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nordegg, Alberta, Canada by William Orsua â&#x20AC;&#x153;I needed to earn to sustain photography. The greatest problem I had, my wife was always mad at me, she was close to divorcing me. I have three kids and I have to buy gears. So I told myself to continue THIS ) NEED TO kND A WAY TO EARN 3O I started doing portraits; I did a lot of fashion and I got into wedding. Now my income in photography
is probably more than what I earn from my full-time job,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The life abroad is different from the life here in the Philippines. I wake up in the morning, and at 3 a.m., I am still doing things,â&#x20AC;? he added. Orsua said he would not stop honing his craft to â&#x20AC;&#x153;grow further,â&#x20AC;? enough to leave his day job as therapist. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To maybe make my photogra-
phy full time someday and make good living out of it. To further improve my craft as I think there are still a lot to learn and be consistent. I wanted to have enough time with my family while I am doing all of this. They are my life and inspiration,â&#x20AC;? he said. He added that he also wanted to start talking about his story, espe-
cially to the young ones, in hopes of inspiring them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to inspire other Filipinos especially the young and the ones who are just starting up because I myself started from scratch and all the skills I have right now is a product of blood and sweat, perseverance and the pursuit to making my craft excellent,â&#x20AC;? he said.
Film against victim-blaming tops Cinemascian tilt
Q Cinemascian winners for Academic Year 2018-2019 CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Q Eunice Lavilla (center) receives her certificate of recognition for winning Best Director for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Wantedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;at the Cinemascian short film competition among Grade 10 students of Manila Science High School.  With her are film and communication professor Seymour Sanchez PHOTO BY SIEGOURNY YAP
Q â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Wantedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; won Best Film, Best Director for Eunice Lavilla and Best Poster for Yana Ysabel Caraan CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
DOES a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice of clothing invite rape or sexual VIOLENCE 4HAT IS NOT SO ACCORDING TO THE SIX MINUTE kLM g7ANTED u WHICH RULED THE ANNUAL #INEMASCIAN SHORT kLM competition among Grade 10 students of Manila Science High School (MSHS) at the Augusto A. Alzona Hall last March 11. Making use of the tikbalang, a half-human, half-horse creature of Philippine folklore to represent the convicted rapist who is on the loose, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wantedâ&#x20AC;? by X-Copernicus won Best &ILM "EST $IRECTOR FOR %UNICE ,AVILLA AND "EST 0OSTER FOR 9ANA 9SABEL #ARAAN Winning Second Best Film was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gusot,â&#x20AC;? which was co-directed by David Andrew Racelis and Leira Marie &RANCISCO OF 8 &ARADAY 4HE kLM ALSO WON "EST !CTRESS for Louise Anne Marinay, who played an overworked household help in a story involving a domineering mother and her caring daughter. The only nonnarrative work, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Omelas: Isang Pagninilay sa mga Larawan ng Maynila,â&#x20AC;? won Third Best Film for X-Moseley, Best Cinematography for Martin Zachary Asistio and Jabez Antinero, and Best Editing for Asistio. It was inspired by a short story by Ursula K. Le Guin. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Desaparecidosâ&#x20AC;? of X-Lawrence won Best Screenplay for Alicia Ablian, Christine Callueng, Andreana Flores and co-writer/ director David Velasco, Best Trailer and Best Soundtrack in a tie with â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ornamentoâ&#x20AC;? by X-Newton. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Desaparecidosâ&#x20AC;? tackles the issue of enforced disappearances as told in the story of a father and his daughter, while â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ornamentoâ&#x20AC;? focuses on a young woman who was sexually abused and victimized by a local politician and his family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Amansinayaâ&#x20AC;? of X-Einstein won Best Production Design for Rommielle Morada, who also co-directed the
My best teachers BY PIT M. MALIKSI LICEO DE SAN PABLO, SAN PABLO CITY THE hands that hold the light are the hands that help shape the future, and exceptional hands they are for they belong to the teachers. They took us by the hands toward what we have become. On my first day in Grade 1, I was one of the mere babes in the woods who couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t read and write, as I did not have prior kindergarten training in our time. Weeks after, our teacher Ms. Concordia Maloles flaunted my personalized calligraphic art to other teachers. She was not obliged to teach us English-reading, but she shared a laugh with me as I tried reading English words the Filipino way, like â&#x20AC;&#x153;ve-gi-tab-bleâ&#x20AC;? for vegetable, as a preparatory exercise for our Grade 2 English. In Grade 3, I asked Mrs. Felisa Malacaman Malasique if she hated me when she promoted me to Grade 4. She only said I had done well in English, then hugged me. In our high school English-writing class, Mrs. Adelaida Marajas always meant to compli-
ment the neatness of my work in spite of its abbreviated content. I knew the ideas I had no words for were an unknown quantity in writing that would fray the nerves of our next â&#x20AC;&#x153;terror teacher,â&#x20AC;? Ms. Esperanza Hernandez. With that, I waded through the pages of Tagalog-English dictionaries during vacation â&#x20AC;&#x201D; I went over complex English words from A to Z, day by day. After our informal-themed writing activities every Friday, her words â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that I could be a good writer â&#x20AC;&#x201D; rang like melody in my ears. (I think English teachers today must go back to this basic writing practice in the classroom).  In college, as my classmates wheedled me for a blowout, courtesy of the meager fees from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Varsitarian and other newspapers and magazines then, not at all did I forget to thank my best English teachers. Our strict UST professor Candida Agcaoili, the former
president of the Philippine Library Science Association, struck me most. She turned our technical library-science subjects (cataloging, abstracting and book classification, among others) more engaging as she called all of us to a series of panel discussions for articulation, and gave us on-the-job lectures and trainings, which we took at face value very seriously.  Professor Josephine Bass Serrano, our World Literature teacher at UST and author of Better English, trained us future teachers individually â&#x20AC;&#x153;to tell a story to drive a moral lessonâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;to simplify, if the lesson is too complicated, and amplify, if it is too simple.â&#x20AC;?  Overseas, my American bosses John Springer and Lt. Von Christiansen entrusted me the best training to edit three US Navy community newspapers. Even though they spoke and acted with managerial gravity, John was a friend while Von
kLM WITH 3IEGOURNY 9AP ! TAKE ON THE TERRITORIAL ROW IN THE 7EST 0HILIPPINE 3EA IT TELLS THE STORY OF A kSHERFOLK S daughter who decides to take matters into her own hands AFTER LEARNING THAT HER YOUNGER BROTHER HAS NOT EATEN kSH since his third birthday. Niccolo Roxas won Best Actor for his role as the ambitious son and politician in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dugoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Pilakâ&#x20AC;? of X-Roentgen. The other competing entries were â&#x20AC;&#x153;Marco Polo,â&#x20AC;? also directed by Racelis and Francisco of X-Faraday and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Piglasâ&#x20AC;? directed by Riana Laurice Fajardo of X-Townes. Cinemascian is conducted annually as part of the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Humanities classes. MSHS Humanities teacher Ms. Christianlyn Magcalayo said the event â&#x20AC;&#x153;aims to showcase studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; skills and creATIVITY IN THE ART OF kLMMAKING TO ALLOW THEM TO EXPRESS their views and insights on social issues surrounding them AS YOUTH THROUGH kLM AND TO USE kLM AS A TOOL FOR SOCIAL awareness and effecting change.â&#x20AC;? *UDGING THE ENTRIES WERE AWARD WINNING kLM EDITOR *OHN Wong (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rosario,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Animalsâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bhoy Intsikâ&#x20AC;?) of EDGE -ANILA #REATIVES #ORP ADVOCACY kLMMAKER AND $E ,A 3ALLE #OLLEGE OF 3AINT "ENILDE 3CHOOL OF $ESIGN AND !RTS kLM department and Far Eastern University Department of Communication lecturer Seymour Sanchez, and Cinemascian 2018 winner and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sa Huling Pigingâ&#x20AC;? director Shayne Jose. Both Sanchez and Jose are MSHS alumni. The entries were evaluated according to the following criteria: Storytelling/Message, 40 percent; Technical Quality, 40 percent (10 percent each for Cinematography, Production Design, Editing and Audio/Music/Sound Effects); and Acting, 20 percent.
was a father to me. It was their way to build harmony and undertake the fosterage of productive work and workers.  While teaching at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sto. Tomas, Batangas, Dr. Juan Birion and Dr. Pat Malaborbor were our best directors as they were assertive but rightful, accordant but not factional.   Pundit-writers Rene Saguisag, Kit Tatad and Rachel A.G. Reyes (from The Manila Times), Eugenia Apostol, Letty Jimenez Magsanoc, Neal Cruz, Conrado de Quiroz, Chato Garcelliano, Randy David, Antonio Montalvan 2nd, Solita Collas Monsod, John Nery, Joel Ruiz Butuyan, Rina Jimenez David, Edilberto de Jesus, Vicente Rafael, Elizabeth Lolarga, George Sison (from Philippine Daily Inquirer), Francisco Sionil Jose, Federico Pascual, Jarius Bondoc, Elfren Cruz, Satur Ocampo (from The Philippine Star), Fr. Rolando de la Rosa, Tonyo Cruz, Atty. Mel Sta. Maria, Elinando Cruz, Gemma Cruz-Araneta, Leandro Coronel, Florangel Rosario Braid (from Manila Bulletin); â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bamâ&#x20AC;? Aquino 4th, Gary Alejano, Neri Colmenares, Jose Pablo Salud, Luis Teodoro, Ellen Tordesillas, Abegail Valte, Teresa Abesamis, Korina Sanchez, Pablo Hernandez 3rd, Raymond Burgos, Fr. Robert Reyes, UST Varsitarian, the University of the Philippines Collegian and others â&#x20AC;&#x201D; who cross swords, not flatter or nose abusive leaders
in higher command â&#x20AC;&#x201D; are the best teachers for modulating the readers of their right frame of arguments and correct sense of history.  My best friends are my best teachers, too, in painting the true picture of friendship â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Rene Ona â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a retired US Air Force personnel, whose care goes beyond the long-playing record albums of the Cascades and Engelbert Humperdinck, his Mom Milingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yummy home-baked cakes, and the richly aphoristic gifts he had given me in no occasions at all. My late relative-best friend Emel Pala, had made good in defining a real friendship as a kind of platonic love. Inay Felisa and Tatay Atanacio were my family. They made meâ&#x20AC;Ś loved meâ&#x20AC;Ś nurtured me. They took me by the hand along the road for life. Who can be more important than them? They are gone, but they live in my heart and memory forevermore. In a phrase â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they are my best teachers.
Pit M. Maliksi graduated from UST and taught at Central Texas College. He is also the founder of the Philippine Axiologists Association, an English Teacher at the Liceo de San Pablo. He was the most outstanding professor for 12 years at PUP, Sto. Tomas, Batangas (STB), where he is the educational program officer of Kiwanis International STB, and the founder of STB Mga Apo Ni Tomas, a civic society of young professionals.
Special Feature
˜ The Manila Times
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PRESIDENTIAL JOURNEY
Duterte: The man behind the leader From an episodic childhood to an eventful political career, the country’s 16th president has led a very colorful life
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BY MAYLENE STEPHANIE S. VIRAY
HE 2016 Philippine presidential election was one of the most hotly contested in the country’s history. At least four seasoned politicians, namely Jejomar Binay, the late Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Mary Grace Poe-Llamanzares and Manuel “Mar” Roxas 2nd were considered as “presidentiables” even before declaring their candidacy. A latecomer to the contest, in the person of then Davao City mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte proved to be the one that captured the electorate’s imagination. Duterte, however, was initially reluctant to run as president, citing his age and desire to retire from politics. But in the latter part of November 2015, Duterte finally confirmed various reports of his presidential candidacy to reporters, a few days before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) deadline for filing certificate of candidacy (COC). His declaration was affirmed by Partido Demokratiko PilipinoLakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) President Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel 3rd, who cited Duterte’s frustrations and concerns on complaints such as the tanim-bala (bullet-planting) scheme at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Sen. Grace Poe’s Filipino citizenship issue, among others, as his reasons for running.
By then, Duterte had already reached the point of no return or in his own words, “The die is cast. I have already crossed the Rubicon.” The Davao City mayor substituted PDP-Laban’s initial candidate, then Quezon City village captain Martin Diño, after the latter withdrew his candidacy due to clerical errors in his COC. His nomination also came after the party passed a resolution designating him as its “substitute candidate.” “Whether they’ll accept it or not, I don’t worry,” Duterte told reporters amid reports of his presidential nomination. “I don’t KNOW HOW MY LAWYERS WOULD kX the problem, but my lawyers will soon sort it out. There should be a proper step on that.” His eventual entry into the presidential race has not only changed the dynamics of the election, but ultimately dictated its outcome.
³LeaderF2
Q After law school, Duterte went back to his hometown in Davao City, where he began his journey as a public servant and rose from the ranks to the top post. MALACAÑANG PHOTO
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
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Q Then presidential candidate Davao City mayor Rodrigo Duterte gestures during his meeting de avance at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila in 2016. PHOTO BY RUSSELL PALMA
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THURSDAY March 28, 2019
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Q LEADERFROM F1
Duterte Duterte was often referred to as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;troubled childâ&#x20AC;? who was Before becoming the tough-talking frequently called out for his mismayor of Davao City, in Davao behavior â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and as some reports del Sur, Duterte traces his roots to CLAIM EVEN EXPELLED FOR HIS MISthe southern Leyte city of Maasin, conduct at two previous elemenwhere he was born on March 28, tary schools and the Jesuit-run At TO A POLITICIAN LAWYER FATHER eneo de Davao University (AdDU). During his high school years at Vicente Duterte, and a school AdDU, he and several other high teacher mother, Soledad Roa. boys were allegedly molested by In his childhood years in Maasin one of the school priests, whom he City, he attended Laboon ElemenIDENTIkED AS THE LATE &R 0AUL &ALVEY tary School for a year before transferring to Santa Ana Elementary SJ, when they were freshmen. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It happened during our genSchool in Davao City and went on eration, two years ahead of us and to obtain his secondary education two years following us,â&#x20AC;? Duterte at the Holy Cross Academy, now told reporters in 2015. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It cost him Cor Jesu College, in Digos City. some P25 million because other In both educational instances,
Leyte before Davao
VICTIMS kLED A CASE IT WAS A CASE OF fondling â&#x20AC;&#x201D; you know what â&#x20AC;&#x201D; he did during confession, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how we lost our innocence early.â&#x20AC;? According to 2015 reports, $UTERTE SAID HE DIDN T kLE A CASE at the time of the incident because he was still young and overrun by fear. Instead, he allowed himself to BE EXPELLED AND MOVED TO A DIFFERent high school without uttering any information even to his family. However, his temper became manageable upon entering college at Lyceum of the Philippines (LPU) in Manila, where he obtained his bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in political science. During his STUDIES HE WAS INlUENCED BY *OSE
Q At 71 years old, the tough-talking mayor of Davao City becomes the oldest person to ever be elected to presidency. MALACAĂ&#x2018;ANG PHOTO
Q Now in the middle of his six-year term, Duterte remains a strong figure. Maria â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jomaâ&#x20AC;? Sison, founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines, who was among LPUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s roster of professors in political science. Despite being under Sisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inlUENCE REPORTS SHOW THAT $UTERTE did not become a full-pledged communist himself.
San Beda years After graduating from LPU in 1968, he then pursued a law degree at San Beda College of Law in Mendiola, Manila. In his stay at San Beda, he became classmates with Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, who emerged at the top of their class. At a 2016 campaign rally in Iloilo, he admitted to shooting a fellow student after he and several other students were bullied because of their Visayan origin. Duterte said the incident occurred in his final year at San Beda. Fortunately, the student survived the shot, but his identity remains unknown as Duterte declined to further discuss the incident. He later graduated from San Beda College of Law in 1972, WHERE HE LATER PASSED THE BAR EXams that same year. In 2017, a year after winning the presidential elections, Duterte was awarded the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bedan OF THE 9EARu AWARD FOR HIS EXEMplary national leadership during San Bedaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual homecoming. The following year, he was awarded with the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bedan of the Decadeâ&#x20AC;? award during San Beda Lawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grand Alumni Homecoming in 2018. Last year, he also witnessed his alma materâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s change of status into San Beda University, as conferred by the Commission on Higher Education in ceremonies held at the MalacaĂąang Palace.
came Davao City mayor until 2010. During his term as mayor, Duterte was infamous for his controversial methods of leadership, which gave him the nicknames â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Punisherâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iron Fist.â&#x20AC;? But nonetheless, he was able to transform Davao City by reducing its crime rates, enforcing smoke bans and implementing measures THAT WERE BENEkCIAL TO THE MEMBERS OF THE LESBIAN GAY BISEXUAL and transgender community, to name a few. His mayoralty post lasted for seven terms in total, owing to the satisfactory ratings of the DavaoeĂąos, as what the citizens are called.
Winning by a landslide
After an active, and sometimes controversial, campaigning period nationwide, Davao City mayor â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rodyâ&#x20AC;? Duterte won as the 16th President of the Philippines in the May 2016 elections, decisively DEFEATING 2OXAS 0OE "INAY AND Defensor-Santiago with a landslide victory. Official tally shows Duterte winning with 39.01 percent of votes or 16,601,997, a mere 6.6 million lead against Liberal ParTY S 2OXAS AT PERCENT 0OE AT 21.6 percent, United Nationalist Allianceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Binay at 12.9 percent and Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Reform Partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Defensor-Santiago at 3 percent. During his campaign period, he heavily voiced out his actions towards drug users and other criminals, government corruption, foreign policy and introducing a federal form of government, which garnered a huge support from the Filipino nation. At 71 years old, the toughtalking mayor of Davao City became the oldest person to ever be elected to the presidency and was ALSO CONSIDERED AS THE kRST PRESIdent from Mindanao and fourth president of Visayan decent, after Davao duties 3ERGIO /SMEĂ&#x201E;A -ANUEL 2OXAS AND After law school, Duterte went Carlos P. Garcia. Now in the middle of his back to his hometown in Davao City, where he began his journey SIX YEAR TERM $UTERTE REMAINS as a public servant and rose from a controversial figure, owing to his brash, outspoken nature the ranks to the top post. From 1977 to 1986, he started and intensified war against ilout as a special counsel at the legal drugs. Despite his share #ITY 0ROSECUTOR S /FkCE OF $AVAO of harsh critics, he continues and later became city prosecutor. to enjoy popular support as In 1986, he won the vice-may- reflected in his latest approval ORALTY WITH THE LATE :AkRO 2ESPICIO rating of 81 percent according TO 0ULSE !SIA AND PERCENT as mayor. The 1988 mayoral elections according to the Social WeathGAVE HIM HIS kRST WIN AS $AVAO er Station. Duterte has also been lauded City mayor, which he continued for implementing numerous for three more terms until 1998. After his successive terms as reforms including the cleanup mayor, he made a short stint of Boracay Island, the signing of as Davao Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1st District rep- THE 4AX 2EFORM FOR !CCELERATION resentative, which he fulfilled and Inclusion Law, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Build! Build! Build!â&#x20AC;? infrastructure plan until 2001. Then, he once again won the and most recently, the signing of mayoral election in 2001 and be- the Universal Health Care law.
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Special Feature
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
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FOREIGN POLICY
Forging closer ties with Asian neighbors BY THE MANILA TIMES
China is not the only Asian country where the Philippines has forged improved engagements under the Duterte presidency
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HE current regimeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prevailing stance on foreign relations is one about strengthening ties with neighbors. That precisely pertains to Asian countries or practically relatable cultures with parallel mindset and character mold as Filipinos have. In a move that again differentiated his administration from that of previous presidents and naturally sparked debates, President Rodrigo Duterte quickly declared his firm intention to pursue an Independent Foreign Policy, with the adjective â&#x20AC;&#x153;independentâ&#x20AC;? now a subject of criticism, partly because past presidents â&#x20AC;&#x153;rarely labeledâ&#x20AC;? it as such. Historically, the big word makes much sense as the 1987 Philippine Constitution, created after the bloodless EDSA People Power of the previous year, clearly stated through Article II, Section VII that â&#x20AC;&#x153;The State shall pursue an indepenDENT FOREIGN POLICY u )T EXPLAINS that â&#x20AC;&#x153;in its relations with other states, the paramount consideration shall be national sovereignty, territorial integrity, national interest and the right to self-determination.â&#x20AC;?
Q The Duterte administration is bent on tightening its link with the Asian giant China and in the process, loosening up its connection to traditional backer from the other side of the world, the US.
But, then again, to further understand this particular policy under the baton of a largely popular but critically challenged president, it is necessary to determine the salient points that characterize it. It is one thing to label it based from the rule book of the land, it is another to actually implement it and give it a remarkable face. In an analytical piece by Mico Galang, a researcher from the National Defense College of the Philippines, he pointed out that a televised interview of Philippine ambassador to China, Jose Sta. Romana, provided the policy a golden opportunity to clarify its worth in public. He argued that â&#x20AC;&#x153;what we are seeing right now is the rise of a power in Asia and we are seeing the decline of a power that used to dominate the region since the
ÂłNeighborsF4
Q US President Donald Trump (left) talks with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte during their bilateral meetin on the sideline of the 31st Association of South East Asian Nations Summit in Manila on Nov. 13, 2017. AFP PHOTO
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THURSDAY March 28, 2019
Special Feature
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Q NEIGHBORSFROM F3
Forging closer ties with Asian neighbors end of World War 2.” That statement clearly showed that the Duterte administration is bent on tightening its link with the Asian giant China and in the process, loosening up its connection to traditional backer from the other side of the world, the US. Sta. Romana even identified three elements as keypoints in implementing President “Rody’s” policy on dealing with other countries. First, the separation of Philippine foreign policy from the US Second, the improvement of
relations with China. And third, the improvement of relations with nontraditional partners like Russia, Japan and India. The shift in focus is very telling as it practically changed the landscape of how the country’s foreign policy is being run. In this take, the Duterte administration sees China as a “major regional power,” and finds it necessary to lessen Manila’s dependence on Washington, while still in cognizant of the “historic alliance” between the US and the Philippines.
In this regard, the current Philippine government is crucially credited for not dismantling the legal foundations of the alliance, which for one means that under Duterte, the facilities under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement will be constructed in agreed locations. Even the Balikatan %XERCISES will continue. Last November, the Philippine visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping yielded a staggering 29 signed agreements between our country and China, folLOWING $UTERTE S EXPANDED BILATERAL
Q President Rodrigo Duterte (left) shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping prior to their bilateral meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Oct. 20, 2016.
Q Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte (left) is greeted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe prior to their talks at Abe’s official residence in Tokyo on Oct. 30, 2017. meeting with him. The eyeball was a reflection of the administration’s pursuit for stronger bilateral cooperation with China, and was a major development considering that back in 2015, when Xi attended the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Leaders’ Meeting in Manila, he was notably greeted “under less friendly circumstances” because of a territorial dispute involving China and the Philippines. Talking about highlight, Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. and Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation on oil and gas development. It was a symbolic sight reflective of Duterte’s aggressive approach in addressing national concerns. Sta. Romana noted that the overall objective of this independent foreign policy, even if the China connection was at times taking its desired effect at THE EXPENSE OF THE US, was to find a “geopolitical sweet spot” between the US AND #HINA TO MAXImize our national interests.” Back in October 2016, the President brought home an ESTIMATED BILlion in investment and loan pledges after his first visit to Beijing. When critics alleged that he was appeasing China and abandoning the Philippines’ maritime interests, he replied by saying he would not give up a single inch of Philippine
territory. But while the public eye is staring at the progress of the country’s deepening ties with China, it is also significant to look at the headways being instituted by the Duterte government in terms of its relationship with other Asian neighbors. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad recently shook hands with President Duterte at Malacañang, vowing in a joint statement that their respective countries would “collaborate to achieve shared aspirations of peace, progress and security in the region.” 4HE CITY MAYOR TURNED CHIEF EXecutive himself noted that Mahathir’s visit reaffirmed “the friendship between our two peoples and nations.” He was quoted in a report, saying, “Our discussions today augur well for other countries and for ours. As we reviewed the milestones achieved in further strengthening our bilateral relations, we also charted new paths for collaborative work.” Further earlier this year, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena went to the Philippines for a five-day state visit. Bilateral meetings with Duterte were held, discussing “areas of mutual interest, including political, economic, cultural and people-to-people engagement.” The visit was the first by a Sri Lankan president serving both as head of state and government under its 1978 Constitution, and only the second by a Sri Lankan leader since the diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in 1961. True enough, the effect of the new approach meant enjoying more returns from improved engagements with neighboring countries in Asia. “Forging an independent foreign policy will not be an easy task,” admitted Sta. Romana. But the fact that President Duterte is clear-cut about his foreign policy shows the decisiveness and courage of a man who dares to choose which countries to welcome and embrace more, and lead his country to a sudden shift of direction in international r e l a t i o n s, ye t a r m e d w i t h s t r o n g vision for the sake of the country’s welfare and future.
Ë&#x153; The Manila Times
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Special Feature
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
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LE G I SL ATIVE MEASU RES
Catalysts for change President Duterte signs game-changing laws on healthcare, importation, child protection and more BY MAYLENE STEPHANIE S. VIRAY
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ITH only three months in to 2019, President Rodrigo Duterte has already passed a number of SIGNIkCANT LEGISLATIONS INTO LAW PhilHealth, on the other hand, assures the fair implementation One groundbreaking statute that has of the provisions of the law to its been passed into law is Republic Act members according to its acting (RA) 11223, more commonly known as PRESIDENT 2OY &ERRER Another successful act that has THE 5NIVERSAL (EALTH #ARE 5(# ,AW â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is the policy of the State to been signed is RA 11210 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Expandprotect and promote the right ed Maternity Leave Law,â&#x20AC;? which to health of all Filipinos and in- extends a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s maternity leave still health consciousness among FROM DAYS TO DAYS Under the law, women will be THEM u THE LAW READ With this mandate, the law granted with an ample transition automatically enrolls all Filipi- period in order to regain her health nos into the National Health and wellness along with assuming Insurance Program of the Phil- MATERNAL ROLES BEFORE RESUMING WORK Women are also provided with the IPPINE (EALTH )NSURANCE #ORP (PhilHealth) either as direct or option of extending the 105-day leave with an additional 30 days without INDIRECT CONTRIBUTORS The health care model provides all pay while an additional 15 days will Filipinos accessibility to quality, pro- BE GRANTED FOR SOLO MOTHERS Meanwhile, RA 11203 or the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rice motive and affordable health services WHILE PROTECTING AGAINST kNANCIAL RISK Tariffication and Liberalization It fosters an approach that in- Lawâ&#x20AC;? has replaced the quantitative volves the whole of the system, restriction on rice imports with targovernment and society for the de- iff, likewise lifting the quantitative velopment, implementation, mon- EXPORT EXPORT RESTRICTIONS The law will be making use of a taritoring and evaluation of the lawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HEALTH POLICIES PROGRAMS AND PLANS IFF SYSTEM FOR RICE IMPORTATION 7ITH Meanwhile, it embarks on a peo- this measure, the country opens up to ple-oriented approach as it delivers a wider range of rice-imports coming health services centered on peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s from fellow Association of Southeast needs and well-being while remaining Asian Nations members as well as sensible of the different culture, values NON !SEAN MEMBERS The measure had also paved the AND BELIEFS PRESENT IN THE COUNTRY
Access for all
Q Duterte passed into law Republic Act (RA) 11223, more commonly known as the Universal Health Care Law. way for the creation of the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) to protect the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rice industry from sudden PRICE lUCTUATIONS The rice tariff for Asean members will be charged at 35 percent, pursuant to the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement, while tariff for non-Asean members would be at 50 percent in accordance with the World Trade OrGANIZATION AGREEMENT ON AGRICULTURE 7ITH THE TARIFkCATION OF THE RICE quota, the government expects to generate additional P10 billion in tariff revenue, which is said to be ALLOCATED TO RICE FARMERS In terms of telecommunication, the passage of RA 11202 or the Mobile Number Portability Act enables consumers to transfer from one network provider to another WHILE KEEPING THEIR NUMBERS â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mobile Number Portability represents an opportunity to rebalance
the relationship between mobile service providers and consumers in a vibrant economy and well-served CONSUMER SECTOR u THE LAW READS â&#x20AC;&#x153;In no case, under penalty of law as provided hereunder, shall THE BENEkTS OF -.0 TO A SUBSCRIBER who has decided to avail of MNP be delayed; withheld, refused, or otherwise not delivered within the period PROVIDED UNDER THIS !CT u IT ADDS Likewise, consumers can also switch subscription plans guided that the number porting process for postpaid subscribers be separate from the approval process for A NEW MOBILE SUBSCRIPTION PLAN As an aid to enclose the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unemployment gap, RA 11230 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tulong Trabaho Actâ&#x20AC;? was signed to improve the Filipinos technical-vocational (tech-voc) skills through the Philippine Labor Force CompeTENCIES #OMPETITIVENESS 0ROGRAM The law will allow Filipinos to
STRENGTHEN THEIR QUALIkCATIONS TO meet the challenges of the rapidly evolving workplaces and work STRUCTURES AS THE LAW READS Likewise, it has also created the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tulong Trabaho Fund,â&#x20AC;? granting qualikED RECIPIENTS WITH ACCESS TO TECH VOC educational programs as determined by the Technical Educational and 3KILLS $EVELOPMENT !UTHORITY 4ESDA The law covers unemployed Filipinos who intend to develop and expand their current skills and training while employees of enterprise-based companies or INDUSTRIES ARE EXCLUDED Moreover, the passage of RA 11228 guarantees persons with disabilities (PWDs) access to Philhealth coverage under its National (EALTH )NSURANCE 0ROGRAM â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Philhealth shall develop exclusive packages for PWDs that WILL ADDRESS THEIR SPECIkC HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT NEEDS u THE LAW STATES
The Department of Health (DoH), in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Labor and Employment, National Council on Disability Affairs, local government units and other relevant agencies and organizations will â&#x20AC;&#x153;conduct periodic monitoring and evaluation OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THIS ACT u Meanwhile, in a bid to further battle the life-threatening pursuits of cancer, Duterte passes RA 11215 â&#x20AC;&#x153;National )NTEGRATED #ANCER #ONTROL !CT u As the leading cause of death in the Philippines, the state shall endeavor to prevent cancer and improve cancer survivorship by scaling up essential programs and increasing investments FOR ROBUST CANCER TREATMENT With this, the law also creates the National Integrated Cancer Control Program, which will serve
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THURSDAY March 28, 2019
Special Feature
Ë&#x153; The Manila Times
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Q CHANGE FROM G1 as the framework for all cancer-reLATED ACTIVITIES OF THE GOVERNMENT
Government resolutions Duterte has also passed bills amending functions, creating new departments and abolishing divisions of SOME OF THE GOVERNMENT AGENCIES Perhaps the most talked about passage is RA 11239, the law responsible for the abolition of the Road Board that was created through RA 8794 which primary function was to oversee funds appropriated for maintenance and IMPROVEMENTS OF ROADS The law has likewise amended some of the sections under RA 8794 among which include Section 7 where under RA 11239, all money collected shall be â&#x20AC;&#x153;remitted to the National Treasury under a special account in the General Fund to be earmarked solely for the construction, upgrading, repair and rehabilitation of roads, bridges and road drainage to be included in the annual General !PPROPRIATIONS !CT u Section 9 of the same act has also been amended to involve the secretaries of the Department of Budget, Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of Transportation to jointly implement
Q Duterte passes RA 11215 THE RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE ACT M e a nw h i l e, a n o t h e r l aw amendment was passed through RA 11232 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines,â&#x20AC;? amending the nearly 40-year-old Batas 0AMBASA "ILANG The new law backs up the Ease of Doing Business law by protecting corporations and shareholders as well as promote good governance to boost the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ECONOMY COMPETITIVENESS Amendments made in the law includes the grant of a perpetual corporate term for existing and future corporations, formation of a one-man corporation, provision of an emergency board member and the alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for INTRA CORPORATE ISSUES On the other hand, a new housing department was created THROUGH 2! The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) will be the primary agency responsible for the management of housing, human setTLEMENT AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT It shall also be the main planning and policy-making, regulatory, program coordination and performance monitoring government body for housing, human
for robust cancer treatment.
settlement and urban developMENT CONCERNS
Youth protection and empowerment Duterte has likewise signed legislative measures to protect and EMPOWER THE COUNTRY S YOUTH RA 11222 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Simulated Birth RectikCATION !CTu SIMPLIkES THE ADOPTION process by granting amnesty and alLOWING RECTIkCATION OF THE SIMULATED birth of a child â&#x20AC;&#x153;where the simulation was made for the best interest of the child and that such child has been consistently considered and treated by the person or persons who simulated such birth as her, HIS OR THEIR OWN DAUGHTER OR SON u 4HE LAW WILL ALSO kX THE STATUS AND kLIATION OF A CHILD WHOSE BIRTH was simulated by giving such child ALL THE BENEkTS OF ADOPTION AND ensuring that the child shall be entitled to all the rights provided BY LAW TO LEGALLY ADOPTED CHILDREN Meanwhile, RA 11229 provides special protection to children ABOARD MOTOR VEHICLES The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Actâ&#x20AC;? ensures the safety of children while being transported in any form of motor vehicle by
adequately, consistently and objectively require, regulate, promote and inform the public of the use of child RESTRAINT SYSTEMS IN MOTOR VEHICLES â&#x20AC;&#x153;It shall be unlawful for the driver of a covered vehicle not to properly secure at all times a child, in a child restraint system while the engine is running or transporting such child on any road, street or highway,â&#x20AC;? THE LAW READS g4HE CHILD RESTRAINT system shall be appropriate to the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s age, height and weight and approved by the Department of 4RADE AND )NDUSTRY u To provide career guidance to high school students, RA 11206 creates the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Secondary School CaREER 'UIDANCE AND #OUNSELING !CT u Under the law, a career guidance and counseling program for all students will be instituted in all public and private secondary schools nationwide in order to provide proper direction in pursuING SUBSEQUENT TERTIARY EDUCATION â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is hereby created a National Secondary Schools Career Guidance and Counseling Program (CGCP) to be administered by the Department of Education $EP%D u THE LAW STATES g)T SHALL be a prerequisite to senior high SCHOOL GRADUATION u
Q The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Rice Tariffication and Liberalization Lawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; replaces the quantitative restriction on rice imports with tariffs. The law aims to equip the students with the capability to make educated career decisions and expose them to relevant labor MARKETS ,IKEWISE IT ALSO AIMS TO ensure tertiary education meet the requirements of the government, INDUSTRY AND THE ECONOMY As another protective measure, this time for children in armed CONlICT $UTERTE HAS ALSO PASSED RA 11188 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed #ONlICT !CT u The law provides these chil-
dren with special protection from all forms abuse, violence, neglect, cruelty, discrimination and other conditions prejudiCIAL TO THEIR DEVELOPMENT â&#x20AC;&#x153;The state shall take all feasible measures to prevent the recruitment, re-recruitment, use, displacement of, or grave child rights violations against children inVOLVED IN ARMED CONlICT u THE LAW READS g)T SHALL TAKE ALL NECESSARY measures to ensure the effective implementation and enforcement OF THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT u
Special Feature A L L OUT C A M PA IG N
Addressing the drug menace Amid mounting challenges and criticisms, President Duterte vows to intensify his war against illegal drugs BY THE MANILA TIMES
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VEN AS HE HIMSELF HAS RECENTLY ADMITTED THAT THE DRUG SITUATION IN THE 0HILIPPINES CONTINUES TO WORSEN 0RESIDENT 2ODRIGO $UTERTE CONTINUES TO MAKE GOOD ON HIS CAMPAIGN PROMISE TO RID THE COUNTRY OF THE LARGE SCALE DRUG MENACE dren from the ages of 9 to 17â&#x20AC;&#x201D;2,016 to be exactâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;were involved in illegal drug activities and were rescued during the ANTI DRUG OPERATIONS There have also been a total of 301 dens (287) and clandestine laboratories (14) Real Numbers that have been dismantled during the SAME PERIOD 4HESE ANTI DRUG OPERATIONS Based on the latest update by Real Num- have resulted in the seizure of drugs, bers PH from data sourced from the CPECs and laboratory equipment worth Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 0 BILLION (PDEA), there have been a total of 119,841 Value of the sought after illegal subanti-drug operations conducted from the stance known as shabu or crystal meth time Duterte assumed office on July 1, seized by authorities is estimated at TO *ANUARY OF THIS YEAR 0 BILLION A total of 170,689 drug personalities An initiative of the Presidential Comhave been arrested while 5,176 have been munication Operations Office (PCOO), KILLED DURING THESE ANTI DRUG OPERATIONS Real Numbers PH also revealed that of Of these personalities, 295 have been the 42,500 total villages (barangay) in the i d e n t i f i e d a s g ove r n m e n t e m p l oye e s country, 11,080 has been â&#x20AC;&#x153;clearedâ&#x20AC;? from while 263 are elected officials and 69 drugs with the remaining 21,974 are yet to ARE UNIFORMED PERSONNEL ÂłDrugs G4 An equally alarming number of chilWhile there is obviously still a lot of work to be done, an overview of the second year of the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ongoing war against illegal drugs reveals some CONSIDERABLE PROGRESS
THURSDAY March 28, 2019
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w w w.manilatimes.net Q DRUGS FROM G4 BE CLEARED These numbers indicate that even with the best efforts of anti-narcotics authorities, illegal drugs still proliferate in the Philippines and apparently involves personalities considered as influential or powerful enough to sustain drug rings or networks in many parts of THE COUNTRY In his speech at the recent PDP-Laban campaign sortie in Cagayan de Oro, Duterte has expressed fear that the Philippines â&#x20AC;&#x153;will be like Mexicoâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;will [soon] be controlled BY DRUG CARTELS u â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Sinaloa has already entered the country and that is why drugs are being thrown IN THE 0ACIFIC 4HE SAME IS happening in the West,â&#x20AC;? the 0RESIDENT ADDED 4HE 3INALOA Cartel is an international drug trafficking, money laundering and organized crime syndicate w i t h o p e r a t i o n s i n s e ve r a l -EXICAN STATES
Balay Silangan But even as human rights groups and other sectors remain critical of Duterteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s war against illegal drugs, particularly on its rising death toll, one silver lining comes in the form of the Balay Silangan drug reformation iniTIATIVE OF 0$%! Under this program, temporary shelters are built for drug offenders with the objective of reforming them into self-sufficient and law-abiding members OF SOCIETY 0$%! DIRECTOR GENeral Aaron Aquino, the Balay Silangan program provides general interventions, like continuing education and health awareness, psychological, spiritual, physical activities such as counselling, moral recovery, values formation, personal and
LIFE SKILLS AMONG OTHERS There are also livelihood and skills training programs such as soap making, massage t r a i n i n g , b a s i c c a r p e n t r y, welding, and hair cutting intended to provide employMENT OPPORTUNITIES As reported by Real Numbers PH, 150 reformed drug offenders have graduated from Balay Silangan since the program was put into effect last year while 30 HAVE ALSO FOUND EMPLOYMENT While these measly numbers are not at all proportional to the 170,689 that have been arrested, it shows that the government remains committed to reforming these offenders AND TURN THEIR LIVES AROUND According to Aquino, surrendering drug personalities â&#x20AC;&#x153;must not belong to the PDEA/ PNP target list, wanted list and watch list, and must not have any other pending casesâ&#x20AC;? in orDER TO QUALIFY FOR THE PROGRAM F o r s u r e, t h e r e r e m a i n s plenty of challenges that lie ahead in the war against ILLEGAL DRUGS %VEN AS HE EXpressed frustration that law enforcers tasked with upholding the law against drug o f f e n d e r s a r e n ow â&#x20AC;&#x153; o n t h e brink of surrendering,â&#x20AC;? Duterte remains undaunted and more determined than ever to make good on his word to put an end to the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DRUG PROBLEM Duterte says the remaining three years of his term will be â&#x20AC;&#x153;the most dangerous timeâ&#x20AC;? in the lives of drug pushers and drug lords as he VOWS gNOT TO LET ;THEM= GO u â&#x20AC;&#x153;If these things do not end, WE WILL ACHIEVE NOTHING !ND SO WE HAVE TO FINISH THIS 7E HAVE NO OTHER CHOICE u HE CONCLUDED WITH REPORTS BY ROY NARRA AND RALPH VILLANUEVA