BusinessWeek Mindanao (February 28 - March 1, 2022) by Mindanao Daily News

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Volume XII, No. 110

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Briefly Pineapple plant DOLE PHILIPPINES, Inc.’s new fresh pineapple packing plant in Lanao del Sur was formally launched last week amid plans to expand surrounding plantations to increase output. The P306-million facility is operated by Dole Philippines subsidiary Wao Development Corp. (WDC), which registered the project with the Regional Bangsamoro Board of Investments in 2019. “The WDC pineapple packing plant is capable of operating at a capacity of 2,000,000 boxes of pineapple but our plant was designed for 6,000,000 boxes rated capacity,“ WDC President Francis Babac said in a statement issued on Sunday by the Bangsamoro government.

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ITH oil prices soaring to as high as $105 per barrel on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Department o f E n e r g y ( D OE ) h a s submitted formal proposal to President Rodrigo Duterte and Congress to expand the coverage of cost subsidies for the transport sector as well as hike the cash endowment beyond the P2.5 billion already committed by the executive branch.

More halal export EXPORTS of halal goods from the Muslim-majority Bangsamoro region are expected to expand with the licensing of more halal certification firms and initiatives to boost trade links with the BruneiIndonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMPEAGA). Prime Certification and Inspection (PC&I) Asia Pacific, Inc., whose parent company is headquartered in Dubai, officially received its certification of registration on Feb. 3 from the Regional Bangsamoro Board of Investments (BBoI), along with four other companies. “The five companies, upon receiving this certificate of registration can fully be operational with their own respective ventures and will automatically enjoy fiscal incentives provided for by the Regional BBoI,” Ishak V. Mastura, the board’s chairman, said in a statement.

Farmers'agenda FARMERS will press the next government to repeal the Rice Tariffication Law, claiming that it has made little to no progress in meeting its objective of improving farmer prosperity after three years. “We are ready to discuss with the future administration to look at the problems and work on what needs to be done… None of (the law’s) promises were fulfilled. There was a drastic and recurrent drop in farmers’ incomes and farmgate prices,” National Manager of the Federation of Free Farmers Raul Q. Montemayor said in a virtual briefing. “There were only minimal gains for consumers, no significant improvement in farmers’ productivity, cost of production, and competitiveness, as well as flawed packaging and poor implementation of adjustment and relief measures for farmers,” he added.

DONATIONS. Seven tons of vegetables from the Cordillera arrive at Sayak Airport in Del Carmen, Siargao Island on Wednesday, last week aboard a Philippine Air Force plane. The vegetables will be distributed to residents of the typhoon-ravaged island. mindanews photo by roel catoto

CDO feted for 88% Covid-19 vax rate THE CAGAYAN de Oro City Health Office (CHO) announced that the National Vaccination Operations Center (NVOC) has lauded the city for its coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccination output. In an online briefer Thursday, CHO medical

officer Dr. Ted Yu Jr. said the NVOC, through Secretary Vivencio Dizon congratulated the city for being the only local government unit (LGU) in Northern Mindanao (Region 10) that achieved over 80 percent of its vaccination rate. "Earlier, the National

In its proposal, the DOE said that transport subsidy coverage shall not just be confined to public utility jeepneys (PUJs) and tricycles, but to broaden it to other modes of public transport, such as buses, taxis, the fleets of delivery riders as well as other ride-hailing services; and also the agriculture and fishing sectors. Within the precept of subsidy expansion proposal, the energ y SUBSIDY/PAGE 11

Vaccination Operations Center in Manila, through Sec. Dizon congratulated us as we are the only one (LGU) in Region 10 that achieves over 80 percent (vaccination rate). Again, we would like to thank our vaccination team for that," Yu said. FETED/PAGE 11

Cordillera farmers, groups send vegies to typhoon-hit Siargao By ROEL CATOTO, MindaNews

OPEN-PIT MINING. The crowd, including Church and indigenous peoples, inside the South Cotabato Gymnasium and Cultural Center for the public hearing on the lifting of the controversial open-pit mining ban on Thursday, 24 February 2022, in Koronadal City. mindanews photo by bong s . sarmiento

DEL CARMEN, Siargao Island – At least seven tons of assorted vegetables from the Cordillera arrived Wednesday in Siargao Island, the area hardest hit by typhoon Odette last December. The vegetables were

donated by farmers in the Cordillera, Upland Linkages, and Bangads Philippines under their activity dubbed Operation Siargao. Chelo Roces, logistics planner of Operation Siargao SEND/PAGE 11

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Siargao town to open tourist sites after ‘Odette’ devastation

UTUAN City – More than two months after Typhoon Odette pummelled Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte, the world-class surfing destination in the Philippines and one of the 2021 Times’ World Greatest Places is reopening to tourists, starting in Del Carmen town. Lani Lipio of the municipal tourism operations office of Del Carmen told reporters Thursday that the Sugba Lagoon, one of the popular destinations in Siargao, will be open to tourists

starting February 25. “We are open but we are also reminding tourists that not all amenities will be available such as cottages and other services. In Sugba Lagoon, we just set up a tent where tourists can temporarily shelter but we assure that the iconic diving board will be available for the visitors,” Lipio said. Of more than 120 tourist boats registered at the tourism office of Del Carmen last year, only 50 boats are operational as more than half were damaged during the typhoon. The 50 boats will be

available on opening day and will cater to tourists going to Sugba Lagoon, Kawhagan Island, and the Sandbar, all in Del Carmen. The rate of the boat trip to Sugba LagoonKawhagan Island- Sandbar destination is P2,000, while the rate to Sugba Lagoon alone is P1,600. “These rates are only for now as there will be an increase probably next month or a few months from now. Last year, we already proposed an increase effective January 2022, however because of the typhoon, we were not able to implement it,” Lipio

said. On Tuesday, Philippine Airlines resumed its regular commercial flights from Manila to Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte. Regular commercial flights were stopped after “Odette” devastated the

island in December last year. Sayak Airport is situated in Del Carmen, one of the ravaged towns on the island. In an earlier interview with reporters here, Mayor Proserfina MatugasCoro of Del Carmen also

confirmed the opening of tourism activities in the town. “Some have already started opening up. Some are still closed as their establishments were damaged. Our tourism is already open, gradually,” Coro said. (PNA)

Renew permits before MICE events, Davao tourism firms told DAVAO City – The City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) on Friday urged establishments here to process their certificates and mayor’s permit before organizing meetings, incentives, conferencing, and exhibitions (MICE). CTOO chief Generose Tecson said in an interview that such processes are necessary as the city continues to fight the threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). The Public Safety and Security Command Center also needs the registration information to strategize security plans. “It is a reminder to our organizers, especially for [those] that are doing MICE. They need to seek Special Mayor’s Permit at least 15 working days prior to their event,” Tecson told the Philippine

News Agency. She said quite a few organizations are already conducting MICE now that the city has been downgraded to Alert Level 2, which allows 50-percent indoor capacity and 70 percent outdoors. Most establishments also require proofs of full vaccination. “There are more than 50 events that were organized since 2022 started. We are anticipating more as the restrictions are easing up,” Tecson added. She reminded business owners that their permits can be revoked if they are not renewed at once. Renewal of business certificates should be every January, Tecson said. Davao City only has 475 active Covid-19 cases, including 42 news infections, as of Friday. (PNA)

PhilHealth pushes for mental wellness of Filipinos by GABRIEL D. ANDRES

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY--In celebration of its 27th anniversary, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation Regional Office (PhilHealth)- 10 conducted a webinar

dubbed, “PhilHealth Matters: A Webinar on Mental Health Awareness and Prevention,” February 22. The event’s resource speaker, Dr. Rodney R. Boncajes of the National Center for Mental Health shared his insights on

mental wellness and the prevention of mental health problems, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Referencing data from the World Health Organization (WHO), Boncajes said Filipinos are mostly affected by mental disorders such as depression and anxiety disorders. In 2017, the WHO recorded 3.2 million Filipinos diagnosed with depression, and about three million Filipinos diagnosed with anxiety. Data from the same year also show that five in every 100,000 Filipinos commit suicide. He added that the mental health of the elderly, children, adolescents, and students have been greatly affected by the global health crisis, causing them to exhibit increased levels of distress and symptoms of depression and anxiety. During the talk, Boncajes cited three ‘domains of functionality’— Intrapersonal, Interpersonal, and Work/school-related functionality—that determine one’s self-image, social interaction, and the performance of tasks. He WELLNESS/PAGE 11

3 Food makers back Gov't readies fuel subsidies SRA’s sugar import plan to ensure supply for affected sectors E Advertising and Editorial E-mail : businessweekmindanao@gmail.com Contact nos. : 0917-7121424 • 0947-8935776

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THE Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers Inc. (PCFMI) has expressed support to the Sugar Regulatory Administration’s (SRA) plan to import 200,000 metric tons (MT) of refined sugar given the local shortage. “Due to the current local shortage of refined sugar that conforms with the quality requirements of food manufacturers, particularly premium and bottler’s grade refined sugar, we join the SRA in its assessment that there is an urgent need for such importation,” the PCFMI told the Philippine News Agency in an email on Thursday. Members of PCFMI, also known as PH Food Chamber, have reported that their current stock of refined sugar would be exhausted as early as March. The PCFMI said that of over 20 raw sugar mills in the country, only seven refineries produce refined sugar. Of this number, only four are able to supply to major food manufacturers. “These suppliers have informed our members that the destruction

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to crops caused by Typhoon Odette last December damaged refineries and refined stocks, thus affecting local sugar supply. Also, affected refineries ceased production for a month until power was restored. Moreover, the lack of available containers and the congestion at the ports of Bacolod and Manila have further aggravated the sugar supply situation,” the group added. Data from the SRA showed that the average price of refined sugar in the first week of February was P3,321.50 per 50-kilogram bag, which was 25 percent higher from previous year's price of P2,664.50. The PCFMI said the inability to import refined sugar that meets the quality standards of food manufacturers poses a threat to food security in the country, specifically the continued supply of essential food commodities. “Existing sugar stocks for food manufacturing are dwindling, and therefore importation under the circumstances is IMPORT/PAGE 10

CONOMIC managers have vowed continued measures to help sectors affected by the rising fuel prices, including the P2.5-billion fuel subsidy program. In a statement Thursday, the inter-agency Development Budget Coordinating Committee (DBCC) said the fuel subsidy will be released through the Department of Transportation (DOTr). “This aims to provide fuel vouchers to over 377,000 qualified PUV (public utility vehicle) drivers who are operating jeepneys, UV express, taxis, tricycles, and other full-time ride-hailing and delivery services nationwide,” it said. Prices of crude oil in the international market have reached around $92 per barrel as of this week, thus, the rise in domestic oil prices. The DBCC said as of February 17, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) forecast Dubai crude oil price

for this year to average at $83.3 per barrel but prices were “expected to decelerate to $79.0 by the end of this year based on the latest oil futures.” The economic managers said the committee “is closely monitoring the factors affecting the oil prices in the country.” “Given recent developments, the government remains ready to provide targeted relief assistance and support to address the impact of the oil price hike for affected sectors, especially public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, farmers, and fisherfolk,” they said. The Department of Agriculture (DA) has allocated P500 million for fuel discounts for “farmers and fisherfolk who either individually own and operate agricultural and fishery machinery or operate through a farmers organization or cooperative.” “This will help mitigate the impact of elevated fuel prices on

production and transport costs of farm and fishery products,” the statement said. The DBCC said the government is also pursuing a “holistic value chain approach” to ensure an adequate and affordable food supply amidst the rising oil prices. This includes DA’s support to various proposed measures in Congress, such as Senate Bill No. 139 or the Philippine Livestock Development Industry Act, and Senate Bill No. 2176 or the Affordable Pork Act to “help ease possible domestic supply constraints and prevent second-round effects on prices.” “The DBCC remains committed to taking decisive action to ensure the unhampered supply of goods and services despite the rising oil prices amid the pandemic. These will support our full recovery and sustained growth in 2022 and beyond,” it added. (PNA)

Toyota to launch all-new Avanza as demand rises TOYOTA Motor Philippines Corp. (TMP) is set to launch the allnew Avanza on March 7 to meet the continuous rise in the local demand for commercial vehicles. In a statement, the car manufacturer said that reservations and inquiries on the new Avanza will

begin on March 1 across all authorized dealerships in the country. Select dealerships will also offer test drives to interested customers soon after the official launch date. TMP disclosed that the 2022 iteration of the Avanza in the country will be available in four grades

and five colors, with the retail price beginning at P813,000. “TMP has been bullish in introducing compact cars in the commercial vehicle segment that will be attractive to customers looking for a reliable, efficient, plus easy and fun to drive rides,” the

company said. According to TMP, the Avanza was last refreshed in 2019. The new model joins the recently introduced Raize under a group of products designed under a new global architecture platform. AVANZA/PAGE 10

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Fishing Families in El Salvador Opposing Eviction KIM'S DREAM

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Use all you've got Think a minute… Have you ever felt like you did not get a fair start in life? Do you feel that the cards you were dealt have made it impossible for you to win? Listen to this true story. John Herreshoff was just 14-years-old in Rhode Island, U.S.A. when he built his first sailboat: a racing yacht called the Meteor. By the time he was 20 he had built another boat called Faustine. It was the first boat of its size to cross the Atlantic Ocean in only 17 days. Later when John was 27-years-old he built a steam yacht called the Annie Morse. At age 37 John formed his own boat building company named Herreshoff Manufacturing. Together with his brother Nathaniel they built steam yachts and torpedo boats. Then in 1892, England challenged America for the America’s Cup, the leading international trophy for yachting or sailing. Sir Thomas Lipton’s yacht called the Shamrock represented England in this world-famous competition. America had to choose its best boat to compete for this highly

ORLAN R. RAVANERA The poor fishing families in the off-shore area in Purok 5, Barangay Alo, Poblacion, El Salvador, Misamis Oriental are now having sleepless nights because they were told that the sea shore area where they have transformed into their residency through hard work by gathering stones to build their concrete houses, not minding the onslaught of strong wind and waves since the sixties has been a subject of a land title and is now owned by a buyer who bought their residential area for more than seven million pesos to be the site of business activities. They were so puzzled because their off-shore residency had been inundated with sea water and became only livable after filling the area with stones before constructing their houses on top of the gathered stones. As they were allowed to use the seashore, they were so thankful to the DENR based on the legal tenet that those who have less in life, should have more in law. As expression of their gratitude for allowing to stay in the off-shore area as fisherfolk, they have become very active in protecting the grandeur of Macajalar Bay as active members of Task Force Macajalar (TFM). They were designated as Fishery Wardens by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic

prestigious prize. Ever y boat builder in the U.S. was hoping to be given such an honor. Finally, based on his past achievements, John Herreshoff ’s company was chosen. So John and his brother Nathaniel designed and built a racing yacht named Vigilant. It won the race. In the following years, John and his brother designed and built many more winning boats. But you have not yet heard the most amazing part of this true story. John, who built his first boat at age 14… and went on to set many world-records in yacht racing… whose second handmade boat set a transUSE/PAGE 11

resources (BFAR) in the Nineties and together with Task Force Macajalar had been conducting nightly seaborne patrol to stop illegal fishing activities and illegal intrusion of 100-tonner commercial fishing boats that were raking the bay then of fish in the municipal waters. In fact, it was so amazing that they established along the bay in El Salvador a fishery guard house through their voluntary efforts together with TFM. Being true to the word El Salvador, they were instrumental in saving the marine and fishery life in the bay. But their environmental advocacy was not just limited in stopping illegal fishing activities. The bay was also a victim of massive soil erosion and siltation. What men do in the uplands affect the life in the sea. Because trees were cut, soil has been eroding that destroys coral reefs as well as the mangroves. The illegal mining activities including hydraulics have worsened the condition of the bay. Thus, these poor fisherfolk had joined TFM in conducting direct action against illegal logging and illegal mining through human barricades. Every night then from 12 midnight until dawn, some 50 10-wheeler logging trucks carrying illegal cut logs from the hinterlands of Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon and Lanao provinces were passing the thoroughfares of Cagayan de Oro when the Cagay-anons were fast asleep. Not minding the throwing of an m2k2 grenade, they bravely faced the threats to life and declared they were willing to give up their lives to protect God’s vanishing creation. That was how passionate they were then as they feel oneness with

all of God’s creation. Could there be greater love than the love of these fisherfolk who were willing to give up their lives to protect hundreds of thousands of species including marine and fishery resources that were b ecoming extinc t then because the 17 million hectares of dipterocarp forest have been ravaged by powerful loggers? If I may recall, they had even composed a poem as a tribute to Macajalar Bay, to quote: “Will the bay which reign to give life be now devoid of breath? The bay has always been like a mother to us, as we bountifully reaped its blessings. Fishing lies at the heart of our culture, the fisherfolk its careful guardians. The bay is now facing a crisis, representing a danger to coastal people. Soon we will see a time when the unavoidable reality of hunger will stalk the earth again. Then how heavily will the meaning of a single fish weigh in our human heart! Pray sons and daughters of the Earth that the bay be restored to life.” That was how amazing these poor fisherfolk are! But now, they are facing another problem: the horrible violation of their human rights. Food, shelter, clothing and livelihood are basic needs of the human beings. From their end, as fisherfolk, they have to protect Macajalar Bay because the bay provides them with their basic needs on food and livelihood and allowed to live in the seashore area. Now, the land had been recently titled, without their knowledge. A land title for them is just a piece of paper; their more than 50 years of residency has already vested upon them greater

right of ownership, living there first as single, then becoming parents and now as grandparents. They have been working so hard to give their children and grandchildren a dignified and decent life. Almost all of children are now professionals and even beautified their homes into concrete two-storey houses. Now, they were told that their houses will be demolished as a court order will soon be issued. For t he C ommunit y Environment Officer in the area, CENRO Conrad Mahinay, he was so puzzled why a land title was issued wit hout his know ledge because the seashore area is under DENR’s jurisdiction. Even an official of the Register of Deeds was so puzzled why such issuance was done without even informing the fisherfolk-residents as they already have acquired vested right of ownership. The af fe c te d f isherresidents are now so puzzled knowing that in this country, no one is above the law, all must bow down to the majesty of the law because we follow the rule of law and not of men. But it is now appearing that it is the rule of the powerful and the rule of money that is more powerful. Thus, while before these fisherfolk had been fighting to protect the environment, not minding threats to life, this time, with a firm collective intent, they will stand and fight for their basic human rights. As stated in their “Manifesto” they are willing to give up their lives to give a decent life to their families and not to be treated as “disposable wastes” that can be evicted anytime by the will of the powerful buyer! EVICTION/PAGE 11

Muntinlupa City @ 27

THINK A MINUTE

JHAN TIAFAU HURST

MON-TUE|FEB. 28 - MARCH 1, 2022

Environment Advocates Before, Now Human Rights Defenders

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To m o r r o w ( M a r c h 1 ) Muntinlupa will observe its 27th anniversary as a city. It was on this day, that former President Fidel V. Ramos, Muntinlupa’s most famous adopted son, signed Muntinlupa’s city charter which converted Muntinlupa into a highly urbanized city. The law was ratified in the plebiscite held simultaneously with the 1995 local elections. Tr a d i t i o n a l l y, t h e incumbent mayor uses the occasion to deliver the State of the City Address to render a public accounting of how he managed the affairs of the city and to lay down plans for the coming year. Mayor Jaime R. Fresnedi, who is winding down the second of his non-consecutive 9-year terms, is expected not only to review the whole range of his legacy projects but also to formally endorse his potential successor, incumbent Congressman Rufino Rozanno Biazon. Vice President Leni Robredo , who has consistently supported Fresnedi’s initiatives, is

expected to attend as a special guest. Early in January every year, I make it a point to visit the Business Permit and License Office to renew my business permit and the Treasurer’s Office to pay my realty taxes. I am usually told that I don’t have to personally pay my dues and that I could just send a messenger. My usual reply: I don’t really mind. It is so convenient paying taxes in Muntinlupa. On top of that, I immediately see where my taxes are being spent. It is exactly the same reason why the top Muntinlupa taxpayers - Filinvest Alabang, Inc., Ford Group Philippines, Inc., Manila Electric Company (MERALCO), Amkor Technolog y Phils, Inc., Filinvest REIT Corporation (formerly Cyberzone Properties, Inc.), Filinvest Land Inc./Festival Supermall, Alabang Commercial Corporation, Capital One Philippines Support Services Corporation, SMC Skyway Corporation, Pepsi Cola

Products Philippines Inc. - consistenty pay big in Muntinlupa. Because of improved collection efficiency, the City Treasurer reported a collection of P6.4 billion in 2021, up from P2.6 billion in 2012. This has allowed Fresnedi to embark on a massive land banking program, involving the purchase of a total of 12.81 hectares of land for the construction of priority education, health, housing, public safety, and recreation projects of the city. The improved f iscal position of the city also enabled Fresnedi to prepay a P1 billion bank debt, settle P330 million in unpaid obligations to the national government and wipe out a P228 million cash deficit. Approximately P189 million was set aside annually to fund a massive scholarship program, which has benefitted 180,000 students to date and an interest-free loan program for micro-entrepreneurs. Still, Fresnedi made it a point to

SPEAKING OUT

IGNACIO BUNYE set aside funds to be able to lend a helping hand to other LGUs beset by natural and man-made calamities. In coordination with national agencies, especially with the office of Vice President Leni Robredo, Muntinlupa implemented what is arguably one of the best LGU responses to COVID 19. 489,321 or 128 percent of the target population have been vaccinated as of February 17. Of this number 440,372 or 115 percent of target have been fully vaccinated. At one point, Muntinlupa registered an all time low of five active cases. This has enabled Fresnedi MUNTINLUPA/PAGE 11

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Banking&Finance DOF chief: Next admin to inherit Duterte’s ‘hard-won’ reforms MON-TUE|FEB. 28 - MARCH 1, 2022

DEPARTMENT of Finance (DOF) Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said Wednesday the next administration will inherit a slew of President Rodrigo Duterte’s “hardwon” reforms, which include several economic liberalization measures to help fuel the Philippines’ resurgence in the years ahead. These reforms include the Duterte administration’s comprehensive tax reform program (CTRP), the flagship “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure modernization, "sin" tax reform, rice tariffication, a national identification (ID) system and the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) law, among others, he said. Dominguez also cited the three economic liberalization bills recently approved by Congress that aim to boost the competitiveness of industries, create more jobs, promote the affordability and quality of consumer goods, and accelerate growth. These are the amendments to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act (RTLA), which has been enacted; and the respective amendments to Foreign Investments Act (FIA)

and the Public Service Act (PSA), which are expected to be signed into law by the President soon. “Let me emphasize that the Philippine economy faces exciting times ahead. We have risen from an economic downturn and opened the door to rapid expansion. Our enterprises are ready to compete with the best in the world. Our people are ready to work hard to progress,” Dominguez told the newly inducted officers and members of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). “For our part, we promise you that President Duterte’s economic team will persevere until the last hour of this administration. We are confident that we will leave public office with the basic groundwork for continued and rapid growth in place. The next president will inherit many hard-won reforms that will boost our economic resurgence,” he added. Dominguez underscored the invaluable contributions made by the business community in the crafting of the Duterte administration’s tax reform program and other game-changing economic measures which,

in turn, helped the country maintain financial strength to weather the worst of the pandemic-induced crisis. He specifically cited the “actionable recommendations” submitted by the PCCI to the government during the previous 13 Sulong Pilipinas consultative workshops. Dominguez said he expects PCCI to continue working closely with the next administration “to ensure that the right policies are implemented.” “We commit to helping make the coming transition as seamless as possible,” he said. Dominguez said many of Sulong’s top actionable recommendations have now become laws, “the majority of which sat on legislative shelves for decades due to the lack of political will to break the typical congressional gridlock.” These laws have helped transform the Philippines into one of the fastestgrowing economies in Asia, with the country even poised to attain upper-middle-income status in 2020, when the pandemic struck, he said. “The Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic pushed

our timeline back, but only temporarily. When the health crisis struck, your actionable recommendations had helped us gain the financial strength to weather the worst of the crisis. In any battle or emergency, preparation is always the best strategy,” he added. In response to such actionable recommendations, Dominguez said the Duterte presidency is the only administration in the country’s history that was able to decisively pass and implement the most comprehensive tax reform program ever. The first CTRP package –the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law– reduced personal income taxes for 99 percent of workers, giving them much-needed relief after 20 years of nonadjustment. The second -- the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Act -- became the largest economic stimulus program for businesses by drastically reducing corporate income taxes (CIT) and finally modernizing the fiscal incentives system. (PR)

DIRECTORY

BSP invests in Asian Green Bond fund in sustainable finance push AS part of its commitment to lead by example and redirect capital to address urgent global challenges, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has invested in the Asian Green Bond Fund (BISIP G3) of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), which aims to help fund investments in green projects across the Asia-Pacific region. The decision bolsters sustainability efforts and supports the sustainable central banking agenda, BSP Governor Benjamin

Diokno said in a news release on Friday. “The participation in the fund is expected to provide the BSP with an additional source of return and investment diversification that is consistent with our prudent approach to reserve management,” Diokno stated. The BIS launched the Asian Green Bond Fund, a US dollardenominated and open-ended fund, in collaboration with development finance institutions

and an advisory committee consisting of various central banks, including the BSP. The fund supports environmentally responsible projects in the Asia- Pacific region and provides a platform for central banks to invest their reserves in high-quality green bonds that meet internationally accepted standards. The BSP previously invested a total of $550 million in the BIS USD Green Bond Fund (BISIP G1). (PR)

DOF chief hopes for Landbank Charter change in next admin DEPARTMENT of Finance (DOF) Secretary Carlos Dominguez III is hopeful that the proposed Charter change for stateowned Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank) will push through in the next administration. During the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines’ (FINEX) 2nd general membership meeting on Tuesday where the finance chief served as guest speaker,

Dominguez said a measure on Landbank’s proposed Charter change is now in Congress, but “I don’t think (this) can get passed in this administration.” He said the state-owned bank, chaired by the DOF Secretary, “has a stupid Charter which says only cooperatives can invest in it.” To address the situation, Dominguez said they have increased the authorized capital

of the bank, a universal bank that focuses on the government’s programs towards funding the needs of farmers and fisherfolk from P200 billion to P800 billion, and increased the paid-up capital to P200 billion. He said they are also proposing the listing of the bank to the local bourse to allow the around 20-percent public ownership “with no group holding more than 5

percent.” “So that is the plan. That is the proposed legislation that we have done. I hope it gets done by the next administration,” he added. The current administration earlier scrapped an Executive Order (EO) issued by the recent Aquino administration regarding the proposed merger of Landbank with the CHANGE/PAGE 10

A PUBLIC SERVICE BY:

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MON-TUE|FEB. 28 - MARCH 1, 2022 Exhibits “A” to “L”) are attached as Annexes B, C, and D and made an integral part hereof. Plaintiff intends to present additional witnesses if necessary. PRAYER

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF LANAO DEL NORTE 12th Judicial Region BRANCH 07 Tubod, Lanao del Norte NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION SPL. CVL. ACTION NO. 153-07-2021 OF THE PHILIPPINES, Plaintiff, – for – - versus Expropriation LITE GO, represented by: LIKING GO; SPOUSES OLIVER U. GO and CHARLOTTE C. GO, Defendants. x--------------------/ TO:

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION LITE GO Represented by LIKING GO Tagueguiron, Lanao del Norte G R E E T I N G S!

WHEREAS, on December 6, 2021, the Court issued an order granting the petitioner’s Motion to Serve Summons by Publication, which reads as follows: “On record is a Motion for Leave of Court to Effect Service of Summons by Publication to defendants Lite Go represented by Liking Go. Finding the same motion to be proper and in order after plaintiff complied with the requirements of the rules, the same is hereby granted. Let summons by publication be served to defendants Lite Go represented by Liking Go whose last known address is at Tangueguiron, Lanao del Norte SO ORDERED.” WHEREAS, Complaint reads: COMPLAINT (With Urgent Prayer for Issuance of Writ of Possession) Plaintiff, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), by counsel, respectfully states that: 1. Plaintiff is a private corporation created and existing under Philippine laws, with principal office address at NGCP Building, Quezon Avenue corner BIR Road, Diliman, Quezon City. It may be served with notices and other court processes through its Right-of-Way Department (ROWD) – Mindanao Division, Maria Cristina, Iligan City, copy furnished the afore-mentioned principal office. 2. Pursuant to Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9511, plaintiff was granted a franchise to operate, manage and maintain, and in connection therewith, to engage in the business of conveying or transmitting electricity through a high-voltage back-bone system of interconnected transmission lines, substations and related facilities, systems operations, and other activities that are necessary to support the safe and reliable operation of a transmission system and to construct, install, finance, manage, improve, expand, operate, maintain, rehabilitate, repair and refurbish the present nationwide transmission system of the Republic of the Philippines. 3. Under Section 4 of the same law, plaintiff was granted the power of eminent domain, subject to the requirements of the Constitution and existing laws. 4. Plaintiff is engaged in the business of transmitting electric power from the generating plants of power producers to distributors. As such, plaintiff’s business is imbued with public interest. 5. To address the country’s growing power demand and ensure continuous, reliable and efficient power supply, there is a need to interconnect the three (3) major power grids of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao into a single national grid. Aside from the sharing of systems reserve, the interconnection will also help optimize utilization of indigenous energy resources such as natural gas in Luzon, geothermal in the Visayas and hydro in Mindanao. Owing to this necessity, plaintiff must immediately construct the transmission lines that will transmit power to distributors of electricity not only in Mindanao but also in Luzon and Visayas. This undertaking is for the use and benefit of the public and part of it is known as the MINDANAO-VISAYAS INTERCONNECTION PROJECT (MVIP), integral part of which is the KOLAMBUGAN-LALA 230kV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT (Project). 6. The said MVIP of NGCP is the first project certified by the Department of Energy (DOE) as an Energy Project of National Significance (EPNS) pursuant to R.A. 7638 of DOE Act of 1992, as amended, entitled to all the rights and privileges provided under Executive Order No. 30, series of 2017, as evidenced by the Certification dated 8 May 2018 issued by the Energy Investment Coordinating Council. Hence, the immediate completion and energization of the said project is critically important. 7. Defendant Lite Go is of legal age, Filipino, and a resident of Brgy. Tangueguiron, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, where he may be served with summons, notices and other processes of this Honorable Court or through his representative, Liking Go, who is a resident also of the same Brgy. Tangueguiron, Tubod, Lanao del Norte. 8. Defendants Spouses Oliver U. Go and Charlotte C. Go are both of legal age, Filipinos, and residents of 88 Diamond Circle, St. Michael’s, Banilad, Cebu City, where they may be served with summons, notices and other processes of this Honorable Court. They are impleaded herein as defendants pursuant to Section 1, Rule 67 of the Revised Rules of Civil Procedure, being the alleged claimants of the subject property and the improvements therein. 9. Plaintiff intends to expropriate portion of a parcel of unregistered land situated in Brgy. Tangueguiron, Tubod, Lanao del Norte. The said property is declared in the name of Lite Go, per Tax Declaration (TD) No. H-230036 (22). It is more particularly described below together with the total affected area sought to be expropriated consisting of 2,810 square meters, as shown in the attached Sketch Plan and Technical Descriptions, to wit:

WHEREFORE, premises considered, plaintiff most respectfully prays of this Honorable Court to:

Copies of the BIR Zonal Valuation applicable to the subject property, Report on the Counts of Improvements, Sworn Statement of Ownership/ Undertaking with Waiver of Rights/Quitclaim with Acknowledgment Receipt, as proof of payment of the affected improvements are attached and made integral parts of this complaint. 10. To enable plaintiff to construct and maintain the Project, it is both necessary and urgent to acquire, upon payment of just compensation, the portion of the subject property, to ensure stability and reliability of the power supply in Mindanao and other regions of the country. 11. Plaintiff negotiated with defendants for the acquisition of the affected portion of the subject property and to pay the cost of improvements therein that may be damaged by the construction of the transmission line project. While defendants already accepted and received the amount of Php140,842.05 representing payment for the affected improvements, no agreement, however, was reached between the parties as to the compensation for the portion of the subject lot property. 12. Considering the urgent need for plaintiff to enter the subject property to implement and commence the necessary construction activities for its Project, plaintiff has no other recourse but to file the instant complaint. 13. Section 13 of R.A. 11361, provides that Rule 67 of the Revised Rules of Civil Procedure governs plaintiff’s expropriation cases. Under Section 2 of Rule 67 of the Revised Rules of Civil Procedure, plaintiff may already enter and possess the portion of the subject property during the pendency of the expropriation case. 14. Section 2 of Rule 67 of the Revised Rules of Civil Procedure states that: “SEC. 2. Entry of plaintiff upon depositing value with authorized government depositary. – Upon the filing of the complaint or at any time thereafter and after due notice to the defendant, the plaintiff shall have the right to take or enter upon the possession of the real property involved if he deposits with the authorized government depositary an amount equivalent to the assessed value of the property for purposes of taxation to be held by such bank subject to the orders of the court. Such deposit shall be in money, unless in lieu thereof the court authorizes the deposit of a certificate of deposit of a government bank of the Republic of the Philippines payable on demand to the authorized government depositary.” [Emphasis supplied] 15. In compliance with the notice requirement, plaintiff notified defendants through a Letter Offer of its intention to file an expropriation case if the possession over the subject property cannot be timely secured and/or issues regarding compensation for the subject property cannot be resolved except through judicial intervention. Plaintiff further serves, simultaneous with the filing of the instant Complaint, a Notice to Take Possession (attached as Annex “A”) upon the defendants.

1. ISSUE a Writ of Possession in plaintiff’s favor; authorizing plaintiff to enter and take possession of the property subject of this complaint that will be affected by the construction and implementation of the Project, consisting of a total area of 2,810 square meters, more or less, as described in paragraph 9 hereof; demolish the affected improvement and/or structures standing therein; order all defendants to vacate the same; directing the Philippine National Police (PNP) to assist plaintiff in the implementation of the said writ of possession so that project construction can immediately commence even during the pendency of the case; direct the Registry of Deeds for the Province of Lanao del Norte to enter the Writ of Possession in the Primary Entry Book and annotate the same in the Registration Book pursuant to Section 69 of Presidential Decree No. 1529; 2. ISSUE an Order of Expropriation declaring that the plaintiff has a lawful right to take possession and acquire the affected property specified in paragraph 9 hereof; 3. After the determination of just compensation, to authorize the payment thereof by plaintiff to defendants after deducting the capital gains and documentary stamp taxes for the transfer of the affected portion of an unregistered lot in the name of plaintiff, all other outstanding taxes under the National Internal Revenue Code, and all outstanding realty taxes and dues under the Local Government Code, which plaintiff shall remit to the Government; 4. ISSUE a judgment after determination of just compensation, declaring plaintiff as the lawful owner of the affected portion of an unregistered lot consisting of a total area of 2,810 square meters, more or less, described in paragraph 9 hereof; 5.

DIRECT: a. The Registry of Deeds for the Province of Lanao del Norte to record in its Registry Daybook (Primary Entry Book) and Registration Book the Order of Expropriation and Judgment rendered by this Honorable Court in this case with respect to the portion of the subject property sought to be expropriated herein, pursuant to Section 113 of Presidential Decree No. 1529. b. The Municipal Assessor of Tubod and/or Provincial Assessor of Lanao del Norte to cancel Tax Declaration No. H-230036 (22) and issue new and separate tax declaration in the name of plaintiff covering the portion of the subject property sought to be expropriated. Iligan City for Tubod, Lanao del Norte, June 14, 2021. NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES Power Center, Quezon Avenue cor. BIR Road Diliman, Quezon City

By:

(WFH) LUIS MANUEL U. BUGAYONG PTR No. 0599223 – 01/04/2021 – Quezon City IBP Lifetime No. 010191/Rizal Chapter MCLE Compliance No. VI-0012003 Roll of Attorneys No. 38002

16. To comply with the deposit requirement, plaintiff, notwithstanding that R.A. 10752 does not specifically apply to it, shall deposit with the Honorable Court an amount equivalent to the 100% of the BIR zonal value of the land sought to be expropriated in the total amount of EIGHTY-FOUR THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED PESOS (Php84,300.00), consistent with the purpose of the said law and OCA Circular No. 113-2019 to simplify the deposit requirement in expropriation cases for the benefit of the defendants and in the interest of immediate implementation of the Project intended to benefit the public.

(WFH) GORDON S. MONTOJO PTR No. 0599215 – 01/04/2021 – Quezon City IBP Lifetime No. 010193/Quezon City MCLE Compliance No. VI-0012024 Roll of Attorneys No. 44910

17. Upon deposit of the provisional amount, plaintiff would have fully complied with the requirements for the issuance of a writ of possession as mandated by law.

(WFH) JULES BOY R. VALDEZ PTR No. 0599221 – 01/04/2021 - Quezon City IBP Lifetime No. 012616/Quezon City MCLE Compliance No. VI-0012045 Roll of Attorney’s No. 63350

18. In a long line of cases and OCA Circular No. 113-2019, once the above requirements are complied with it, it becomes the ministerial duty of the trial court to issue the writ of possession in favor of the plaintiff, without need of any further hearing. Thus, as cited in the said OCA Circular: “Municipality of Cordova v. Pathfinder Development Corporation emphasizes the mandatory issuance of the writ of possession upon the receipt of the required deposit. “No hearing is actually required for the issuance of a writ of possession, which demands only two (2) requirements: (a) the sufficiency in form and substance of the complaint; and, (b) the required provisional deposit x x x x Upon compliance with these requirements, the petitioner in an expropriation case is entitled to a writ of possession as a matter of right and the issuance of the writ becomes ministerial.” (Emphasis supplied).

RIGHT-OF-WAY DEPARTMENT – MINDANAO DIVISION NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES Maria Cristina, Iligan City By:

19. Moreover, it must be emphasized that an expropriation proceeding is an action quasi in rem, wherein the fact that the owners of the property are made parties is not essentially indispensable insofar as it concerns the immediate taking of possession of the property and the preliminary determination of its value, including the amount to be deposited. 20. An action quasi in rem names a person as defendant, but its object is to subject that person’s interest in a property to a corresponding lien or obligation. In a proceeding quasi in rem, jurisdiction over the person of the defendant is not a prerequisite to confer jurisdiction on the court, provided that the latter has jurisdiction over the res. 21. The purpose of summons in actions quasi in rem is not the acquisition of jurisdiction over the defendant but mainly to satisfy the constitutional requirement of due process. Since the issuance of writ of possession is exparte, ministerial, and non-litigious in nature, the issuance thereof, even prior to the service of summons, will not violate defendants’ right to due process as the same can be done even without defendants’ participation. Besides, the issuance of a writ of possession does not prevent defendants from raising objections to and defenses against the expropriation of their property. 22. Plaintiff intends to present three (3) witnesses, namely: a) Engr. Licinio B. Capili, b) Mr. Nolito L. Notar, and c) Mr. Michael E. Encarnado to establish, among others, NGCP’s authority to exercise the power of eminent domain, the propriety of its exercise in this case, and the bases for the determination of the just compensation. Copies of their Judicial Affidavits (with attached

(SIGNED) KERTH JOSSEF M. ABLANQUE PTR No. 9890045 – 01/06/2021 – Iligan City IBP Lifetime No. 012019 MCLE Compliance No. VI-0011641 Roll of Attorneys No. 60170 (SIGNED) JUNELLA G. LIMPANGOG-ABARQUEZ PTR No. 9890044 – 01/06/2021 – Iligan City IBP No. 128123 – 01/04/21 – Iligan City MCLE Compliance No. V-0022527 Roll of Attorneys No. 58980

NOW THEREFORE, the above mentioned Defendant is hereby summoned and required to file with the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Branch 07, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, Philippines, his ANSWER to the above-quoted complaint within sixty (60) days from publication of the summons and to serve copy of the said answer upon plaintiff’s counsel at his given address indicated in the complaint. Defendant is further reminded of the provision in the IBP-OCA Memorandum on Policy Guidelines dated March 12, 2002 to observe restraint in filing a Motion to Dismiss and instead allege the grounds thereof as defenses in the Answer. Tubod, Lanao del Norte, February 21, 2022. BWM: Feb. 28, March 7 & 14, 2022

(SIGNED) FLORENCE O. PEROCHO Legal Researcher II/OIC – Clerk of Court

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MON-TUE|FEB. 28 - MARCH 1, 2022 Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF LANAO DEL NORTE 12th Judicial Region BRANCH 07 Tubod, Lanao del Norte NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION SPL. CVL. ACTION NO. 116-07-2021 OF THE PHILIPPINES, Plaintiff, – for – - versus Expropriation LITE GO, represented by: LIKING GO; SPOUSES OLIVER U. GO and CHARLOTTE C. GO, Defendants. x--------------------/ SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION TO: LITE GO Represented by LIKING GO Tagueguiron, Lanao del Norte G R E E T I N G S! WHEREAS, on December 6, 2021, the Court issued an order granting the petitioner’s Motion to Serve Summons by Publication, which reads as follows: “On record is a Motion for Leave of Court to Effect Service of Summons by Publication to defendants Lite Go represented by Liking Go. Finding the same motion to be proper and in order after plaintiff complied with the requirements of the rules, the same is hereby granted. Let summons by publication be served to defendants Lite Go represented by Liking Go whose last known address is at Tangueguiron, Lanao del Norte. SO ORDERED.” WHEREAS, Complaint reads: COMPLAINT (With Urgent Prayer for Issuance of Writ of Possession) Plaintiff, National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), by counsel, respectfully states that: 1. Plaintiff is a private corporation created and existing under Philippine laws, with principal office address at NGCP Building, Quezon Avenue corner BIR Road, Diliman, Quezon City. It may be served with notices and other court processes through its Right-of-Way Department (ROWD) – Mindanao Division, Maria Cristina, Iligan City, copy furnished the afore-mentioned principal office. 2. Pursuant to Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9511, plaintiff was granted a franchise to operate, manage and maintain, and in connection therewith, to engage in the business of conveying or transmitting electricity through a high-voltage back-bone system of interconnected transmission lines, substations and related facilities, systems operations, and other activities that are necessary to support the safe and reliable operation of a transmission system and to construct, install, finance, manage, improve, expand, operate, maintain, rehabilitate, repair and refurbish the present nationwide transmission system of the Republic of the Philippines. 3. Under Section 4 of the same law, plaintiff was granted the power of eminent domain, subject to the requirements of the Constitution and existing laws. 4. Plaintiff is engaged in the business of transmitting electric power from the generating plants of power producers to distributors. As such, plaintiff’s business is imbued with public interest. 5. To address the country’s growing power demand and ensure continuous, reliable and efficient power supply, there is a need to interconnect the three (3) major power grids of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao into a single national grid. Aside from the sharing of systems reserve, the interconnection will also help optimize utilization of indigenous energy resources such as natural gas in Luzon, geothermal in the Visayas and hydro in Mindanao. Owing to this necessity, plaintiff must immediately construct the transmission lines that will transmit power to distributors of electricity not only in Mindanao but also in Luzon and Visayas. This undertaking is for the use and benefit of the public and part of it is known as the MINDANAO-VISAYAS INTERCONNECTION PROJECT (MVIP), integral part of which is the KAUSWAGAN-LALA 230kV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT (Project). 6. The said MVIP of NGCP is the first project certified by the Department of Energy (DOE) as an Energy Project of National Significance (EPNS) pursuant to R.A. 7638 of DOE Act of 1992, as amended, entitled to all the rights and privileges provided under Executive Order No. 30, series of 2017, as evidenced by the Certification dated 8 May 2018 issued by the Energy Investment Coordinating Council. Hence, the immediate completion and energization of the said project is critically important. 7. Defendant Lite Go is of legal age, Filipino, and a resident of Brgy. Tangueguiron, Tubod, Lanao del Norte, where he may be served with summons, notices and other processes of this Honorable Court or through his representative, Liking Go, a resident of Brgy. Tangueguiron, Tubod, Lanao del Norte. 8. Defendants Spouses Oliver U. Go and Charlotte C. Go are both of legal age, Filipinos; and residents of 356 Saint Michael Road, Brgy. Kasambagan, Banilad, Cebu City, where they may be served with summons, notices and other processes of this Honorable Court. They are impleaded herein as defendants pursuant to Section 1, Rule 67 of the Revised Rules of Civil Procedure, being the alleged claimants of the subject property. 9. Plaintiff intends to expropriate portion of a parcel of unregistered land situated in Brgy. Tangueguiron, Tubod, Lanao del Norte. The said property is declared in the name of Lite Go, per Tax Declaration (TD) No. H-230036 (22). It is more particularly described below together with the total affected area sought to be expropriated consisting of 10,175 square meters, as shown in the attached Sketch Plan and Technical Descriptions, to wit:

of the just compensation. Copies of their Judicial Affidavits (with attached Exhibits “A” to “L”) are attached as Annexes B, C, and D and made an integral part hereof. Plaintiff intends to present additional witnesses if necessary. PRAYER WHEREFORE, premises considered, plaintiff most respectfully prays of this Honorable Court to: Copies of the BIR Zonal Valuation applicable to the subject property, Report on the Counts of Improvements, Sworn Statement of Ownership/ Undertaking with Waiver of Rights/Quitclaim with Acknowledgment Receipt, as proof of payment of the affected improvements are attached and made an integral part of this complaint. 10. To enable plaintiff to construct and maintain the Project, it is both necessary and urgent to acquire, upon payment of just compensation, the portion of the subject property, to ensure stability and reliability of the power supply in Mindanao and other regions of the country. 11. Plaintiff negotiated with defendants for the acquisition of the affected portion of the subject property and to pay the cost of improvements therein that may be damaged by the construction of the transmission line project. Defendants received the payment of the improvements in the amount of Php458,666.71. However, no agreement was reached between the parties as to the compensation for the portion of the subject property. 12. Considering the urgent need for plaintiff to enter the subject property to implement and commence the necessary construction activities for its Project, plaintiff has no other recourse but to file the instant complaint. 13. Pursuant to Section 13 of R.A. 11361, Rule 67 of the Revised Rules of Civil Procedure governs plaintiff’s expropriation cases. Under Section 2 of Rule 67 of the Revised Rules of Civil Procedure, plaintiff may already enter and possess the portion of the subject property during the pendency of the expropriation case. 14. Section 2 of Rule 67 of the Revised Rules of Civil Procedure states that: “SEC. 2. Entry of plaintiff upon depositing value with authorized government depositary. – Upon the filing of the complaint or at any time thereafter and after due notice to the defendant, the plaintiff shall have the right to take or enter upon the possession of the real property involved if he deposits with the authorized government depositary an amount equivalent to the assessed value of the property for purposes of taxation to be held by such bank subject to the orders of the court. Such deposit shall be in money, unless in lieu thereof the court authorizes the deposit of a certificate of deposit of a government bank of the Republic of the Philippines payable on demand to the authorized government depositary.” [Emphasis supplied] 15. In compliance with the notice requirement, plaintiff notified defendants through a Letter Offer of its intention to file an expropriation case if the possession over the subject property cannot be timely secured and/or issues regarding compensation for the subject property cannot be resolved except through judicial intervention. Plaintiff further serves, simultaneous with the filing of the instant Complaint, a Notice to Take Possession (attached as Annex “A”) upon the defendants. 16. To comply with the deposit requirement, plaintiff, notwithstanding that R.A. 10752 does not specifically apply to it, shall deposit with the Honorable Court an amount equivalent to the 100% of the BIR zonal value of the land sought to be expropriated in the total amount of THREE HUNDRED FIVE THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED FIFTY PESOS (Php305,250.00), consistent with the purpose of the said law and OCA Circular No. 113-2019 to simplify the deposit requirement in expropriation cases for the benefit of the defendants and in the interest of immediate implementation of the Project intended to benefit the public.

1. ISSUE a Writ of Possession in plaintiff’s favor; authorizing plaintiff to enter and take possession of the property subject of this complaint that will be affected by the construction and implementation of the Project, consisting of a total area of 10,175 square meters, more or less, as described in paragraph 9 hereof; demolish the affected improvement and/or structures standing therein; order all defendants to vacate the same; directing the Philippine National Police (PNP) to assist plaintiff in the implementation of the said writ of possession so that project construction can immediately commence even during the pendency of the case; direct the Registry of Deeds for the Province of Lanao del Norte to enter the Writ of Possession in the Primary Entry Book and annotate the same in the Registration Book pursuant to Section 69 of Presidential Decree No. 1529; 2. ISSUE an Order of Expropriation declaring that the plaintiff has a lawful right to take possession and acquire the affected property specified in paragraph 9 hereof; 3. After the determination of just compensation, to authorize the payment thereof by plaintiff to defendants after deducting the capital gains and documentary stamp taxes for the transfer of the affected portion of an unregistered lot in the name of plaintiff, all other outstanding taxes under the National Internal Revenue Code, and all outstanding realty taxes and dues under the Local Government Code, which plaintiff shall remit to the Government; 4. ISSUE a judgment after determination of just compensation, declaring plaintiff as the lawful owner of the affected portion of an unregistered lot consisting of a total area of 10,175 square meters, more or less, described in paragraph 9 hereof; 5.

NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES Power Center, Quezon Avenue cor. BIR Road Diliman, Quezon City By:

(WFH) LUIS MANUEL U. BUGAYONG PTR No. 0599223 – 01/04/2021 – Quezon City IBP Lifetime No. 010191/Rizal Chapter MCLE Compliance No. VI-0012003 Roll of Attorneys No. 38002 (WFH) GORDON S. MONTOJO PTR No. 0599215 – 01/04/2021 – Quezon City IBP Lifetime No. 010193/Quezon City MCLE Compliance No. VI-0012024 Roll of Attorneys No. 44910

17. Upon deposit of the provisional amount, plaintiff would have fully complied with the requirements for the issuance of a writ of possession as mandated by law.

(WFH) JULES BOY R. VALDEZ PTR No. 0599221 – 01/04/2021 - Quezon City IBP Lifetime No. 012616/Quezon City MCLE Compliance No. VI-0012045 Roll of Attorney’s No. 63350

RIGHT-OF-WAY DEPARTMENT – MINDANAO DIVISION NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES Maria Cristina, Iligan City By:

19. Moreover, it must be emphasized that an expropriation proceeding is an action quasi in rem, wherein the fact that the owners of the property are made parties is not essentially indispensable insofar as it concerns the immediate taking of possession of the property and the preliminary determination of its value, including the amount to be deposited. 20. An action quasi in rem names a person as defendant, but its object is to subject that person’s interest in a property to a corresponding lien or obligation. In a proceeding quasi in rem, jurisdiction over the person of the defendant is not a prerequisite to confer jurisdiction on the court, provided that the latter has jurisdiction over the res. 21. The purpose of summons in actions quasi in rem is not the acquisition of jurisdiction over the defendant but mainly to satisfy the constitutional requirement of due process. Since the issuance of writ of possession is exparte, ministerial, and non-litigious in nature, the issuance thereof, even prior to the service of summons, will not violate defendants’ right to due process as the same can be done even without defendants’ participation. Besides, the issuance of a writ of possession does not prevent defendants from raising objections to and defenses against the expropriation of their property. 22. Plaintiff intends to present three (3) witnesses, namely: a) Engr. Licinio B. Capili, b) Engr. Nolito L. Notar, and c) Windsor C. Abaga, Sr., to establish, among others, NGCP’s authority to exercise the power of eminent domain, the propriety of its exercise in this case, and the bases for the determination

(SIGNED) FLORENCE O. PEROCHO Legal Researcher II/OIC – Clerk of Court

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MON-TUE|FEB. 28 - MARCH 1, 2022

Fostering strong parental involvement: Key to successful education By PHOEBE JOY A. BATONGHINOG Tingalan Integrated School

Educators and parents play major roles in the educational success of learners. Learners need a positive learning experience to succeed in school: one providing support, motivation, and quality instruction. With the increasing demands on the family, parental support in the education of learners extends beyond the school building. Many families are faced with overwhelming and unpredictable schedules and circumstances while juggling school, sports, family situations, family time, work schedules, and other resp onsibilities, allowing minimal time to provide support in any one given area. However, one of the biggest challenges is for parents to find the time to attend school events or support their children; this is especially true for fami lies wit h low economic resources. It is also challenging for the teacher when the children are expected to perform well academically, but the learners do not receive any support at home. It is difficult to establish a connection between schools and households or create a safe environment for

parents of all socioeconomic statuses. In cases where parents do not know how to read or write, or when their mother tongue is another language than the one that prevails in school, it is difficult for them to feel comfortable attending talks or school events. That is why educational institutions should work even harder to make such parents feel welcome and accepted. And yes, from another viewpoint, teachers see imp or t ant changes in their classrooms when parents get involved, such as improvements in the motivation and performance of the learners and even t heir charac ter. A ls o, collaboration with parents can help identify needs and goals, and there can be discussions about how parents can contribute. The communication with the parents presents the opportunity for the teacher to listen to parents' concerns and explain to them more about their children's’ education. Thus, parental involvement offers benefits to everyone, including the school, the teachers, the parents, and above all, the learners.

Creating a culture of collaboration among colleagues By MARIA ELAINE R. ABAO

The COVID-19 pandemic saw traditional teaching rulebooks thrown out the window – classrooms were shut and remote, online teaching became almost universal in many countries. It fell on teachers to adapt their methods to the new context, reinforcing the importance of teacher collaboration. Teachers collaborate in a multitude of ways when they interact with their colleagues to exchange ideas and resources, discuss student learning, team up for joint activities and knowledge creation. It is in these ways that teachers can co-create and enhance their learning with a shared aim to provide quality learning experiences to their learners. In addition to supporting the instructional role of teachers, collaboration plays a key role in building relationships among teachers so that they feel part of a professional community and derive personal fulfilment from their work. Teacher collaboration has been a common element of middle grades initiatives for years, typically one or more of these three organizational models: common planning time, professional learning communities, and critical friend groups.

In a c o l l a b o r at i v e culture, members of the school community work together effectively and are guided by a common purpose. All members of the community—teachers, administrators, learners and their families—share a common vision of what the school should be like. Together they set goals that lead them toward this vision. In doing so, they create a culture of discourse in which the most important educational matters facing the school are openly and honestly discussed. Members respect each other, value their differences, and are open to each other’s ideas. Even when there is disagreement, people listen to each other because they believe deeply that differences are vital in moving their school forward. Thus, given the huge impact that teachers play in the performance of their learners and the continual acknowledgment of teacher collaboration as a core element for the professional development of the school and its members, it is not surprising that many official policies and education reforms around the world plead for more collaborative practices among teachers.

29 TESDA scholars complete welding skills training in Salay by GABRIEL D. ANDRES

SALAY, Misamis Oriental-The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) formally conducted the graduation exercises of 29 individuals who completed their skills training on Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC-I

at Barangay Ili-ilihon, February 24. In support of the E.O. 70 or ‘Whole-ofNation Approach’ by President Rodrigo Duterte, TESDA with the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) is tasked

to provide technical skills training and similar interventions to indigenous people, rebel returnees, and former members of communist terrorist groups in farflung communities. TESDA Provincial Director Marigold Cherie R. Garrido said the decision to implement

SMAW skills training in Barangay Ili-ilihon was based on an assessment of the community’s needs and resources. The program also worked towards TESDA’s mandate to build skills for employment and the elimination of poverty. “When we build their skills, they will have the TESDA/PAGE 10

Giving credit when it’s due GERALYN A. VELARDE Teacher 2 Vicente N. Chaves Memorial Central School Poblacion 3, Villanueva, Misamis Oriental

I’ve long believed recognizing employees for a job well done is one of the most powerful actions employees at all levels, from leaders to frontline people, can take in business. More and more organizations are realizing its value, as 80% of companies have an employee recognition program in place — and it’s paying off. Showing employees recognition motivates them to keep doing amazing work, which,

in turn, means happier customers. Employees who feel recognized for their work are also more likely to stay with a company, resulting in less turnover, a critical factor for your bottom line. Hands up if you've ever been in a board meeting, and you know someone is claiming credit for something one of their subordinates has done? I've seen this happen time and time again and the negative effect on a team can

be permanently damaging. Even if you have headed up or initiated a project or piece of work, always give credit to the team who have helped you get the result. Just as much as constructive feedback should be given in many forms, so should appreciation. Some employees may live for public praise at the end of a meeting or a company all-hands, while others may prefer the intimacy of a quick chat in the hallway or an individual

email thanking them for a job well-done. Employee recognition may take the form of an employee of the month award, a sales allstar of the quarter, or a full Employee Appreciation Day like we have at our company. While every company may not have the size or resources to devote an entire day to employee appreciation, recognizing employees in big and small ways can make a huge difference to morale and culture.

The impact of Covid-19 pandemic in education By CANDELARIA RODELEN N. LLAGAS Teacher III San Isidro National High School San Isidro, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental

T H E C ov i d - 1 9 p a n d e m i c h a s instituted a paradigm shift from the way we live and even in how we deal with ever ything around us. Its devastating effects seeped through accross borders threatening to annihilate humanity. Globally, millions were dead and positive cases continue to rise and there's no certainty as to how this pandemic will end. Just like any critical sector, education has been hit hard. Students, schools, colleges and universities have been deeply impacted. According to the United Nations

Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), over 800 million learners from around the world have been affected, 1 in 5 learners cannot attend school, 1 in 4 cannot attend higher education classes, and over 102 countries have ordered nationwide school closures while 11 have implemented localised school closure. In response to school closures, UNESCO recommended the use of distance learning programmes and open educational applications and platforms that schools and teachers can use to reach learners remotely

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF BANK DEPOSIT KNOWN ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: That we ANGELICA C. WOO of legal age, Filipino citizen, married and a resident of Libona Bukidnon and ANNETTE C. RATUNIL, of legal age, Filipino citizen, married, and a resident of Cagayan De Oro City: WITNESSETH: That we are the sole and only heirs of the late ADELA C. ROA who died on August 19,2020 at Maria Reyna-Xavier University Hospital, Cagayan de Oro City; That the deceased left no debts and no will of testament, but left a estate which consists of her BPI Main-Velez Branch, Cagayan De Oro City, bank account with Savings account No _____________ That the estate of the deceased is not subject to any existing lien, encumbrances, lis pendens, garnishment, attachment, injunction, execution, or any debt or obligation; That by way of this Extrajudicial Settlement of Bank Deposit of the deceased, we hereby EQUALLY PARTITION among ourselves the above-mentioned Bank Deposit of the deceased, pursuant to the Civil Code of the Philippines and Rules of Special Proceedings of the Revised Rules of the Court of the Philippines; That we hereby undertake to indemnify, defend and hold PNB, its subsidiaries, affiliates, their respective successors and assigns and each of their respective shareholders, directors, officers, employees and agents (collectively, the Indemnified Persons”) harmless from any and against any and all loss, obligation, damage, penalty, judgment, claim, deficiency, expense, interests, penalties, attorney’s fees, and amounts paid in settlement to which any Indemnified Person may become subject arising out of or relating to the release/withdrawal of the aforementioned savings account of our deceased mother Adela C. Roa; That this document will be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in Misamis Oriental. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, parties have hereunto set their hands this 19th day of February, 2022 at Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines.

and limit the disruption of education. T h i s n e c e ss it ate s i n c re a s e d budgetary requirements for education as remote or distance learning methodologies need to adapt the power of technology such as the use of the internet for online learning, etc. The virus has created the largest disruption of education systems in human history, affecting nearly 1.6 billion learners in more than 200 countries. Closures of schools, institutions and other learning spaces have impacted more than 94% of the world's student population.

ERRATUM

The Notice of Hearing Applicant/Petitioner METRO ILIGAN TRANSPORT COOPERATIVE (MITSCO)Rep. By; MATRONILLO ABIOL ,Case No.R10-EV/CC-PUJ 2020-123788 ROUTE ILIGAN PROPERTAMBO - BAYUG with the exact number of units(16)sixteen not as publish.

The Notice of Hearing Applicant Petitioner METRO ILIGAN TRANSPORT COOPERATIVE (MITSCO) Rep.By;MATRONILLO ABIOL,CASE NO R10-EV/CCPUJ-2021-01-0088 ROUTE ILIGAN PROPER -DEL CARMEN -IBJT with the exact number of units (16)sixteen not as publish.

Our apoogy-LTFRB-X CDOC

NOTICE is hereby given that the Certificate of Philippine Registry with No. 0103484 issued on 24 March 2017 of the MARINA Region XIII to MBCA GENCYRILL 4 a vessel registered to NORLITO TICOD JR., was lost. LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

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Carinderia owners, sidewalk vendors to benefit under BRAVE program of Lacson-Sotto Small business owners and informal street vendors may benefit from the flagship Budget Reform Advocacy for Village Empowerment (BRAVE) program of the Lacson-Sotto administration with the kind of support it is prepared to give to local government units (LGU) in aid of their marginalized constituents. Partido Reporma standardbearer Panfilo ‘Ping’ Lacson gave this assurance Saturday when he learned that the LGU in Malabon City managed to provide financial aid and technical support for its carinderia owners as part of its livelihood projects, which, he said, reflects the essence of the BRAVE policy. “Kanina nakikinig ako, nahuli ko ‘yung huling bahagi ng panayam mo kay Councilor Enzo (Oreta). Biglang pumasok sa isip ko napakaganda ng programa. Isipin mo pati ‘yung carinderia sa kanila naisipan nilang ayudahan, bigyan ng technical support, ng assistance,” Lacson told DZRH radio anchor Cesar Chavez in an interview. [Earlier, when I was listening (to your program), I caught the last part of your interview with Councilor Enzo (Oreta). It just

occurred to me that he has a very good program. Come to think of it, even the carinderia (owners) received financial aid, technical support and assistance (from the LGU).] “Isipin mo lang kung magkapartner ‘yung national government at ‘yung local government units natin sa buong bansa, hindi lang sa Malabon, na kung saan ‘yung hindi nga nagagamit na budget at ‘yung naaabusong budget i-download na lang natin (sa mga LGU),” the presidential aspirant noted. [Just think of it, if the national government can develop stronger p ar t nersh ips w it h our lo c a l government units nationwide, not only in Malabon, we can redirect the unused and abused appropriations of our national budget and download the funds (instead to the LGUs).] During his visits to different LGUs across the provinces of Laguna and Batangas recently, Lacson highlighted the possibility of scaling up some of the good social projects of local government officials under his and running mate Senate President Vicente ‘Tito’ Sotto III’s leadership through the proper management of the national

budget. “Ito ‘yung essence ng aming budget reform talaga, na ayudahan natin (ang mga LGU) para nang sa ganoon bigyan sila ng sapat na pondo para sa kanilang livelihood at saka mga infrastructure project sa kani-kanilang mga lugar,” Lacson stated. [This is the essence of our budget reform agenda—to aid our LGUs so they would have enough wherewithal to fund their livelihood and infrastructure projects in their respective areas.] “Kasi ang programa namin kayang bigyan talaga ng hanggang P100 million taun-taon from the national budget on top of the IRA (Internal Revenue Allotment) at saka mga ilang programa ng gobyerno, kayang bigyan dahil nga sa laki ng hindi nagagamit din lamang na bahagi ng ating national budget,” the Partido Reporma chief added. [Because under our program, we could really provide up to a P100-million budget allocation every year (for the LGUs) from the national budget on top of the IRA (Internal Revenue Allotment). We can even augment funding for the other programs of the government

Teacher Teamwork: A must By MARIA ELAINE R. ABAO

Team work is involving more than one person in a process to achieve a goal. An aspect that should be emphasized in the strategic management of a school organization is forming a working team that is active and able to work together to achieve organizational goals. In general, the team is a group of quality built in order to create a rule that strive for excellence. Therefore, the success of the efforts of a group that was formed, the spirit of cooperation and good relations among group members need to be nurtured. Strong teacher teamwork creates strong schools. This concept is the driving reason teacher learning teams that support teacher-to-teacher professional learning

and c ol l ab or at i on are increasingly commonplace in high achieving schools. The importance of teacher te am i ng and l e ar n i ng community development c e r t a i n l y i s n ot n e w. Countless historical quotes and proverbs fan our passions as educators to work together to grow, to enhance student learning and to support and develop our schools. More so, educational leaders know that quality teams of teachers working productively together have the highest probability of supporting significant and sustained student learning, but there is a difference b et we en k now ing and doing. Doing requires a c t i on t o c h ange ou r behavior, creating habits to produce positive outcomes.

M o s t i m p o r t a n t l y, hig h p er for ming s elfdirected teacher teams exhibit mutual respect and trust. They clearly understand and support the organizational mission, vision and values as they have had a strong voice in their creation. Functioning with passion and purpose, these teams determine their destiny, though are accountable to commonly determined outcomes. They are well connected to the leadership or steering team and other horizontal and vertical teams. This permits independence, creativity, and job satisfaction. High p e r for m i ng te ams are tightly connected to the mission, vision and values, though have flexibility in how they achieve their goals.

Parent-teacher effective communication in the ‘new normal’ By OLIVE D. PUASAN Tingalan Integrated School

In response to the acute learning crisis generated by the Coronavirus outbreak, teachers have had to adopt new methods of educating their learners and staying connected to their communities. Around the world, millions of parents have also stepped up and taken charge of their child’s education. Most parents are doing all they can, in enormously difficult circumstances, to minimize and mitigate the significant disruption to learning caused by school closures. During the pandemic, learning has become highly dependent on the use of technology. Globally, a large number of schools in urban areas are conducting online classes for learners. In areas with limited connectivity, education providers have used more traditional distance learning methods, or a mix of educational television and radio programming, as well as the distribution of print materials. Parents and guardians play an essential role in elementary school learning, but effectively reaching them can be an ongoing challenge for even veteran

elementary school teachers. Thus, a little friendliness goes a long way, especially when it comes to elementary school parent-teacher communication. Whether you’re communicating via email, text, or in person, be warm, be welcoming, and offer encouragement. When you see parents in person, smile, shake hands, and make eye contact. Great parentteacher communication, especially in elementary school, starts with making parents feel valuable. All parents and guardians have something worthwhile to offer your classroom, whether it’s helping at an event or speaking to learners about their occupation. Encourage them to participate and share their strengths. Furthermore, the basis of effective communication with parents also starts with trust. It’s essential for parents to trust their child’s teacher. When speaking to parents, assure them that everything you discuss is confidential and that as an elementary school teacher, you always have your learners’ best interests at heart.

because of the huge chunk of unused appropriations in our national budget.] Insofar as Lacson is concerned, channelling the social services and community-driven projects of the national government through the LGUs is the best policy direction for the country to achieve its lofty ambitions towards achieving inclusive economic growth because it is the local chief executives themselves who are in the best position to determine the needs and priorities of their constituents. Part of his goals under the BRAVE program is to capacitate community leaders on how to prepare their local development plans and implement them in such a manner that would receive wider support from the national government for the benefit of their communities. “Sabi hin na nat in may mga fifth-class municipalities na baka walang kakayanan na magsagawa, magbalangkas ng local development plans, doon naman papasok ang national government para i-capacitate sila. Pati pag-iimplementa tulungan din sila na matuto para mag-implementa ng kani-kanilang mga livelihood at saka ng infrastructure projects,”

Lacson explained. [Let’s say there are (officials) in fifth-class municipalities who lack the capacity to build their own local development plans, that is when the national government can intervene to capacitate them. Even in the implementation of their projects, we will also help to make them learn how to properly execute their livelihood and infrastructure projects.] “You can just imagine ‘yung job

opportunities na tatamasahin ng mga kababayan natin kung meron silang kani-kanilang livelihood at saka development, infrastructure projects sa kanilang mga kanayunan. Kakalat, kakalat ‘yung (pag-unlad),” the longtime public servant added. [You can just imagine the job opportunities that our citizens will enjoy if they have their own livelihood and infrastructure development projects in the countryside. It will spread, (the growth) will spread.]

“REMINISHING THE KIND ACT OF YESTERDAYS AND TODAYS LEADERS WHILE CELEBRATING ITS 53rd FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY”

It was over five decades ago that our fraternal organization dedicated to the principles of Leadership, Service and Loyalty was founded in the historic act of our great leaders namely: Frank Paz Jr., Frederick Loor, and Remy Galvizo who were once a student at University of Bohol. This unequaled act momentarily hampered with trials and sacrifices especially after 4 years of existence when President Fe rd i n an d E . Marc o s declared a Martial Law in the entire Philippines to suppress the peril act of the enemies of the government. In those time, our founders have nothing to do but to adhere the government request to stop from forming a group meetings, initiations, and assemblies. It was more than 6 years where the Beta Sigma Omega Phi has halted from its activities until in the year 1981 when President Marcos finally lifted Martial Law

via Proclamation 2045 in preparation of the State Visit of Pope John Paul II on February 17,1981. Prior to the lifting of Martial Law, there were various recruitment held in the different places in Mindanao thereby it sprung up to the places of Bukidnon, Davao, Cotabato, Butuan, Agusan del Sur, Zamboanga, Plaridel, and Sultan Kudarat by those who survived as students in the University of Bohol, the mother chapter of the fraternity and sorority and upon returning to their hometown. In 1978, the first initiation was then held at the mother Chapter thus it opened the way for the propagation of this fraternity in the neighboring places. From its humble beginnings would emerge an international fraternal organization of more than 72 collegiate chapters in the Philippines and 100 alumni associations worldwide. Amidst the felicitations and celebrations, let us take the advantage of this milestone by reflecting on our vision of BETA SIGMA OMEGA PHI ten years hence. We, Beta Sigma Omega Phi envision in accordance with our mission and vision which are ascending to greater heights, excelling with honor, and fostering lifetime fraternal virtues anchored with its mission

to create experiences that will challenge and encourage one's journey toward growth and the achievement of unique potential; to develop ethical leaders inspired by the principles of Leadership, Loyalty and Service; and to p er p etuate lifelong friendships and commitment to the fraternity. With its ~ • C O R E VA LU E S : Envisioned a better future, l e a d e rs h ip i n Ac t i on , Excellence, Growth, and Membership Value, With its ~ • G OA L S : C h apt e r strength, Excellence through Education and alumni commitment. The aforementioned mission and vision can only be realized if all of us will WORK orchestrated as one and involve as body united getting into consideration that any part of the body will not function, everything will malfunction and somehow would result to disharmony and crippled ability. My challenge to all of US, we can only achieve our vision if we stand together as one – cognizant of our role in this monumental undertaking and, most important of all, to stand fast in our loyalty to our Fraternity/Sorority and to each other. CONGRATULATIONS ON THIS 53rd FOUNDATION ANNIVERSARY!

May We Always Be, JESSER T. PAIRAT Vice Supreme National Council BETA SIGMA OMEGA PHI INTERNATIONAL SERVICE FRATERNITY & SORORITY Cagayan de Oro City Council SEC Reg No. CN201626822 Cagayan de Oro City

Avanza... from page 3

“Our mobility requirements are rapidly evolving, especially after the disruptions caused by the pandemic, but one thing remains constant — Filipinos will always need a reliable car that can offer ample, comfortable space for the family, including extended family members,” TMP First Vice-President for Vehicle Sales Operations Sherwin Chualim said. “This has always been the strength of the Avanza, but for this 2022 release, expect even more value-for-money features on top of its striking style upgrades inside and out,” he added.

Import from page 3

necessary,” it added. In a report, SRA administrator Hermenegildo Serafica said the importation of sugar is the “best way” to deal with the effects of Typhoon Odette, which destroyed most parts of Visayas and Mindanao in December 2021. This, after two temporary restraining orders (TROs) obtained by sugar farmers associations in the Visayas have put a hold on the sugar

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MON-TUE|FEB. 28 - MARCH 1, 2022 import plan. He said that of the 200,000 MT to be imported, 100,000 MT bottler’s grade refined sugar will be purchased by beverage companies while t he ot he r 1 0 0 , 0 0 0 M T standard refined sugar by food processors, such as confectionery makers. “As an agency, we have to look at the bigger picture to balance the domestic supply and make sure that we have adequate supply to ensure food security and thereby, also stabilizing prices,” he added. However, Reps. Carlos Isagani Zarate, Eufemia Cullamat and Ferdinand Gaite of the Bayan Muna party list filed Monday House Resolution 2495 seeking a probe on SRA's plan to import refined sugar. (PNA)

Change... from page 5

Development Bank of t he Ph i l ippi ne s ( DBP ) , another government finance institution (GFI) which is focused on helping finance the government’s infrastructure program. Under EO 198, Landbank will be the surviving entity after the merger. It is aimed at having a larger lender that will provide greater financing not only to its

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC “Notice is hereby given to the Public that ALFRA VENTURES GROUP, INC., with office address at the Limketkai Corporate Office, Limketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City, is the registered owner of certain parcels of land situated in the Barrio of Tupsan Pequeño, Municipality of Mahinog, Province of Camiguin covered by Transfer Certificate of Title No. 134-2017000321 and Transfer Certificate of Title No. 1342018000058, Registry of Deeds for the Province of Camiguin, with an area of 4,680 square meters and 1,379 square meters, respectively.”

target benef iciaries but also to the government’s infrastructure programs. Dominguez said they put the proposed merger aside for a while and instead pr i or it i z e d L a n d b a n k’s m e rge r w it h Un ite d C o conut Planters B an k (UCPB), whose shares were acquired using coco levy funds thus, the Supreme Court (SC) decision declaring it as state-owned. The merger is scheduled to take effect on March 1. “I prioritized that over DBP because UCPB actually, if you analyze it, we had a potential risk of failure of UCPB that would cost PDIC (Philippine Deposit Insurance C orporation) P150 billion. So, we decided we will put UCPB first in a safe place and then move it for ward,” Dominguez said. UCPB has received financial assistance f rom t h e P D IC f or it s recapitalization. In 2 0 1 9 , P D I C a l s o restr uctured par t of its cash aid to the bank into P12-bi l lion conver t ible capital notes. “As regards to DBP, I think we really have to review the viability of DBP on its own,” Dominguez added. (PNA) EXTRAJUDICIAL PARTITION WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE AND SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY K N O W A LL M E N B Y T H E S E PRESENTS:

Importance of computer literacy among learners JESSICA L. BACOL Master Teacher 1 Vicente N. Chaves Memorial Central School Katipunan, Villanueva, Misamis Oriental

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread across the nation, more and more school districts are continuing remote learning into the fall. Even those that are reopening are also planning for the need to close again if an outbreak occurs. As a result, districts are racing to get technology and internet access to students who do not currently have those resources. Providing computers and hotspots is just step one in closing the digital divide, however. Schools will also need to address disparities in computer literacy, so that students who are unaccustomed to using computers regularly are not left behind. And yes, the digital world offers tremendous benefits to us all. It provides platforms that allow us to connect and collaborate. It opens up opportunities to learn about new and important issues, and empowers innovation in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Computer literacy is the knowledge and

Tesda... from page 8

opportunity to earn, and the means to buy food. TESDA is there to reach out to far-flung communities and l e t t he m k now t he gover nment is t here to alleviate their situation,” Garrido said. T E SDA S c h o l a r a n d Excellence Awardee Jonel T. C a c u l b a e x p r e s s e d h is t han k s to t he l o c a l EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

That the late RAFAEL M. LLANES who died intestate on June 25, 2021 at Cagayan de Oro City; the said deceased left his one half or 50% share of conjugal properties consisting of 2 contiguous parcels of land with Transfer Certificate of Title No. 137-2012008815 situated in the Barangay Carmen, City of Cagayan de Oro, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of EIGHT (8) SQ.M., and Transfer Certificate of Title No. 1372012008816 situated in the Barangay Carmen, City of Cagayan de Oro, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of ONE HUNDRED SEVENTY THREE SQ.M. (173), for and in consideration of the sum of PESOS: ONE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (Php 1,500,000.00), Philippine Currency, the HEIRS-VENDORS hereby sell, transfer, convey and assign unto FRANCIS LAURILLA REGADO, legal age, Filipino, single, and resident of Purok 2-A, Gusa, Cagayan de Oro City, his heirs, assigns and successors-in-interest the above-described properties free from all liens and encumbrances, and has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL PARTITION WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE AND SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY, filed by the heirs of RAFAEL M. LLANES, per DOC #149; PAGE #30; BOOK #61; Series of 2021 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. MARISSE GAY G. LICO-ABALDE.

That the late RICARDO ROA who died intestate on January 27, 1983 at Cagayan de Oro City, decedent CECILIA IDOL-ROA who died intestate on July 24, 2001 at Cagayan de Oro City and NORMA ROA-CABATINGAN, deceased sister of the above-named HEIRS, during her lifetime, was already adjudicated by their deceased parents 80 square meters from the whole area covered by Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-4770, at the time of their death, the decedent RICARDO ROA, left a real property with Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-4770; the above-named HEIRS are now desirous of adjudicating unto themselves the remaining 320 square meters, Lot 1- B-1; Area= 100 SQ.M to BUENO I. ROA (Residential), Lot 1-B-2; Area= 89 SQ.M. to ORLANDO I. ROA (Residential), Lot-1-B-3 Area= 58 SQ.M. to JAMIE I. ROA (Residential), Lot 1- B-4; Area= 59 SQ.M. JOSE I. ROA (Residential) and has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE, filed by the heirs of RICARDO ROA, CECILIA IDOL-ROA and NORMA ROA-CABATINGAN, per DOC #165; PAGE #33; BOOK #1; Series of 2021 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. JOANE THERESE B. GALES.

BWM: February 14, 21 & 28, 2022

BWM: Feb 21, 28 & Mar 7, 2022

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS:

ability to use computers and technology efficiently. Computer literacy can also refer to the comfort level someone has with using computer programs and other applications that are associated with computers. The precise definition of “computer literacy” can vary from group to group. However, “computer literate” often connotes little more that the ability to use several specific applications (such as Microsoft Word and Microsoft Internet Explorer) for certain very well-defined simple tasks. Educators are pushing greater computer literacy requirements since student exposure does not necessarily translate to understanding. Computer literacy is a crucial component for success at a higher education institution since the student interacts with the school, the faculty, and the community by using the computer. Students cannot complete their coursework or search for online solutions without this competency.

government and the agency for providing t hem t he opportunity to attain technical skills in welding. “Kami po [ng mga kaklase ko] ay nagpapasalamat na kami po ay binigyan ninyo ng opp or tu n it y n a m atuto s a we l d i ng at bi n i g y an niyo po ang bawat isa ng kakayahan at knowledge. Ma l a k i ng b a g ay p o it o sa amin na kami ay magkaroon ng kaalaman sa pagwe-welding,” Caculba said. EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE OF THE LATE LEONARDO DELA CAMARA LLOREN KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: That the late LEONARDO DELA CAMARA LLOREN who died on June 9, 2020 in Cagayan de Oro City, and Married to Luz Jubas Lloren (deceased) without any last will or testament; that said decedent at the time of his death left a house and lot; the said real property with Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-103100 (residential Building) situated in the Barrio of Gusa, City of Cagayan de Oro, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of SEVENTY-EIGHT (78) square Meters, more or less, and that said deceased left Deposit of money in his savings account with the Bank of the Philippines Island (BPI)-Lapasan Branch, Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City under Account Name: Leonardo Lloren and Account Number: 0021731473-44 and has been the subject of an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE OF THE LATE LEONARDO DELA CAMARA LLOREN, filed by the heirs of LEONARDO DELA CAMARA LLOREN, per DOC #223; PAGE #45; BOOK #05; Series of 2022 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. PRINCESS KIMBERLY V. UBAY-UBAY. BWM: Feb 28, Mar 7 & 14, 2022

(My classmates and I are thankful to TESDA for being given the opportunity to learn welding, and that they have given each of us skills and knowledge. This is a big thing for us to have knowledge in welding) The SMAW program is the first of many i nt e r v e nt i o n s t h at t h e agency plans to implement i n t h e c o m m u n i t y, T E S DA RT C - Ta g o l o a n Administrator Mario S. L a b i s i g s a i d . He a d d s that TESDA continues to collaborate with barangay authorities to assess the community’s needs and introduce new skills training such as agriproduction to interested individuals. (GDA/PIA-10/ Misamis Oriental) DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL PARTITION WITH SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY K NO W A LL M E N B Y THE S E PRESENTS: That the late RUBEN ALEJANDRIA ENGUIO, who died sometime on May 17, 2021 at _________ without any will; that the said deceased, at the time of his death, left a certain sum of money deposited before the Land Bank of the Philippines under savings account number 4441-0016-60 in the amount of Php 30,021.98; and has been the subject of an DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL PARTITION WITH SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY, filed by the heirs of RUBEN ALEJANDRIA ENGUIO, per DOC #4364; PAGE #73; BOOK #IX; Series of 2022 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. JERSON S. LEYSON. BWM: February 14, 21 & 28, 2022

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Use...

from page 4

Atlantic record… and whose boats won the America’s Cup 5 times in 10 years… was totally blind from the age of 12. Even though he lived his life in the dark, he did not let that stop him from doing His very best and making his mark in the world. You may not have every ability and advantage that someone else does, but that does not mean you do not have all you need to be successful. So won’t you ask Jesus to take complete control of your heart and way of living? Only your Maker is the One Who can help you start making your mark and filling your place in the world. Just think a minute.

Eviction... from page 4

Is the ownership of the rich means the dispossession of the poor? Indeed they are not disposable wastes to be evicted based on a questionable land title. They may be poor fisherfolk but they were compassionate members of an ecological m ov e m e nt Ta s k Fo r c e Macajalar that in 1993 was a recipient of the Public Service Award from Xavier University, an international recognition from the Friends of the United Nations in Ottawa, Canada in 1995 for protecting the environment and a national awardee in 2014 of PhilHealth of the Local Hero Award. These poor fisherfolk were the frontliners of Task Force Macajalar. While these amazing institutions are recognizing them as environmental heroes, why are they being treated as disposable wastes and are to be evicted in utter disregard of their vested right of more than 50 years of residency? As decided by the DENR, such title will be the subject of an investigation, but still they are being threatened to be evicted, thus, they are now firmly standing and fighting for their human rights and request for due process of law. Task Force Macajalar with its thousands of members will also stand for them, be legally and thru extra-legal means. All human rights defenders, JOIN US!

Muntinlupa... from page 4

to join the Metro Mania Council in recommending the downgrade to Alert Level 1 effective March 1. To start the day, Fresnedi is scheduled to inaugurate the Muntinlupa Aquatic Center which was built on a onehectare property a stone’s throw from the Muntinlupa Sports Center – the venue of the badminton competition during the SEA Games. Other previously inaugurated projects under Fresnedi’s land-banking program are the following: -A high school building, a health center, and BALAI Muntinlupa (a housing project for city employees) at a 4.3 hectare area in Lakeview,

Putatan -Colegio de Muntinlupa erected on 1.6 hectares in Barangay Sucat -2 Senior High School bu i l d i n g s , 1 Te c h - Vo c building on 1.6 hectares also in Barangay Sucat -1 Senior High School building (in coordination with former Rep. Rodolfo Biazon) on 1.5 hectares in Barangay Cupang -Bahay Pagasa in Barangay Putatan -Lakeview Senior High School in Putatan -Junior High School in Putatan -Emergency evacuation and a health center in Barangay Poblacion -Expansion of the city cemetery in Barangay Putatan -Parking lot behind city hall -Expansion of BJMP facilities in Barangay Putatan Other on-going projects include the expansion of the Ospital ng Muntinlupa, in coordinatiojn with Rep. Rufino Rozzano Biazon. I n c i d e n t a l l y, I h e a r d that the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa, in collaboration with the Ospital ng Muntinlupa, is putting up medical degree course soon. Expected to be completed soon is the New Muntinlupa City Public Market which will be re-branded as the Central Market of Muntinlupa At the end of the Fresnedi I I a d m i n i s t r at i on , a re Muntinlupeños much better off? Let the facts speak for themselves. Note: You may wish to share the foregoing via Facebook, Twitter, Linked-in or Viber.

Subsidy... from page 1

department indicated that the financial allotment shall likewise be significantly i n c re a s e d e s p e c i a l ly i f the oil crisis will last for several months – and that shall be subject to the final calculation of the Executive Branch. Atty Rino Abad, director of the DOE’s Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) affirmed that they have submitted such proposal to Malacanang and Congress, but they are still waiting for action from the executive and legislative leaderships. As culled from scenarios plotted by the DOE — three possibilities will happen if the radical spikes in oil prices will be sustained in the weeks or months

ahead: first, will be for the government to expand subsidy coverage for the transport sector; second, is to immediately implement excise tax suspension for fuel products; and third, to allow transport fare hikes although that will bear inflationary impact on the costs of basic commodities and services. At this stage, Abad noted that the department has its hands tied when it comes to the scale of ‘financial help’ it can assure for public transport as well as other critical sectors like those in fishing and agriculture sectors — that aside from the State-sanctioned subsidy, t he energ y dep ar t ment can only appeal to the oil companies if they can also bestow ‘cost discounts’ to their customers. As of Friday (February 25) trading in the global market, international benchmark Brent crude settled back at US$101 per barrel; but market watchers are anticipating that “the worst is not over yet” for the oil markets. In the view of Senate Committee on Energ y Sher win T. Gatchalian, “even if Russia is not a supplier of oil and gas to the Philippines, the global supply disruptions will cause oil prices to escalate in the short to medium term.” On that account then, he is calling on the national government to immediately “implement the Pantawid Pasada program” or the cost subsidy scheme for public utility drivers; and that the mode of distribution of financial aid to around 377,000 PUV drivers shall be done through electronic wallets. The lawmaker is similarly prodding the Department of Energy (DOE) to “formulate contingency plans in case of supply disruptions;” and for the agency to “monitor global oil prices closely w h i ch m ay e s c a l ate i n months to come due to uncertainty.” Gatchalian further echoed “we may need to suspend excise taxes as the last resort,” as he emphasized that “there is no overnight solution to reduce oil prices in our country.” He stressed the only way for the country to wane its oil addiction “is to reduce our dependence on imported oil by exploring more domestic sources of oil and gas and transition in electric vehicles in the years to come.”

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Feted... from page 1

As of February 23, the C HO d at a showe d t he city tallied 531,789 fully vaccinated individuals, or 88.64 percent of the total target population of 599,929. Of the fully vaccinated, 97,696 individuals have received their booster shots and 24,567 individuals have received their first dose. The city government also recorded 6,098 children aged five to 11 years old who have received their first dose of vaccine, after the city's Covid-19 vaccination team inoculated 541 children yesterday, February 23. "Even with this number 92.73 percent (total first dose) we still have reported deaths who are unvaccinated so this is very critical to our people. Hopefully, all of us will get vaccinated," Yu said. According to the CHO's data, there is around 7 percent of the target population that are not yet vaccinated. New batch of Omicron cases The CHO also reported the third batch of Omicron variant cases detected in the city. Yu said the new batch is composed of five Omicron cases - two males and three females, of whom four are local cases and one re-tagged case. The one re-tagged case is a non-city resident who is an authorized person outside of residence (APOR) while the four local cases are residents from the villages of Pagatpat, Patag, Bonbon, and Dansolihon. Yu said the specimen samples from the five cases were collected last January 1824 this year. The results were released by the Philippine Genome Center on February 21 and the CHO received the results on February 23. To date, he said they have recorded 14 closed contacts from the new five Omicron cases and the CHO has coordinated with Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams for influenza-like illness and acute respiratory infection monitoring. He also said the five cases were clinically recovered and there was no admission in the hospital as a majority of them were mild cases. The city government

has recorded a total of 44 Omicron variants, of which five cases are re-tagged and only 39 cases were tagged in Cagayan de Oro. E a r l i e r, t h e l o c a l government reported the first batch composed of seven cases on February 2 and the second batch on February 15 that was composed of 32 cases. (PNA)

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from page 1 told reporters the shipment included chayote, cauliflower, potatoes, and Baguio pechay. Roces said it also contained clothes, water, and food items like noodles and canned goods. “We are blessed to have the chance to bring it here b e c au s e t h e p e o p l e o f Siargao have been waiting. We weren’t able to bring the remaining two tons of vegetables because of the limited capacity of the plane, but we have these assorted vegetables from Cordillera farmers,” she said. “This will be distributed right away to the community kitchen through the local government units for them to distribute,” she added. “ This is a concer te d effort of various private individua ls and donors along with the government and nongovernment organizations,” Richard Sharpe, one of the organizers of Operation Siargao, said. The relief assistance will be distributed in the towns of Dapa, Del Carmen, Pilar, Burgos, two community kitchens each in San Isidro and General Luna. The organizers said they are g ratef ul to D efens e Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and t he Ph i l ippi ne Ai r Force for allowing the use of a C130 Hercules plane to airlift the goods from Baguio City to Siargao. Mark Andrew Directo of M.A Directo Foundation Inc . , a m aj or d onor to Operation Siargao said the activity aims to help fellow Filipinos in need and to embody unity during hard times. Asked about their future plans, Roces said there’s a possibility they could send more assistance as long an aircraft would be available.

Wellness... from page 2

s aid one domain b eing affected by mental health problems already warrants medical consultation. “Isa lang po sa mga tatlong [domains of functionality] na magkaroon ng concern, warranted na po na kayo ay makita kaagad ng mental health professional para maiwasan ang complication. If [all] your domains of functionality have already been affected, medyo alarming na po,” Boncajes said. He also said to look out for symptoms of mental health problems and disorders. Based on the Mental Health Continuum Model, mentally-ill persons exhibit an exhausted or fatigued image, have enraged or depressed moods, frequently think about suicide, are not able to perform tasks at all, and are associated with substance or alcohol abuse. Government action and interventions For those wishing to seek medical advice for their conditions, Boncajes said a 24/7 crisis hotline operated by the National Center for Mental Health and the Depar tment of Health (DOH) is available for Filipinos across the countr y. D OH regional offices have also managed to create their own crisis hot l i ne s t hat us e l o c a l languages to facilitate better communication. Majority of the services offered by the NCMH and the DOH have also been t r a n s i t i o n e d d i g i t a l l y, Boncajes said, making them more accessible and safer for people. Without the added cost of traveling, he said doctors are able to cater to more patients, and patients are able to consult more easily and safely at home. B oncajes also said primary healthcare workers trained for the provision of mental health services have also been reactivated in certain D OH Health Centers. Moreover, DOH h a s a l s o prov i d e d f re e medication to patients and conducted more training for HCWs to expand the provision of mental health services. (GDA/PIA-10)

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NUSTAR to Mark Cebu as the Island of New Possibilities

EBU is set to take center stage for new possibilities as NUSTAR Resort and Casino is gearing up to elevate and redefine five-star luxury, gaming, entertainment, leisure, dining, and retail in Cebu and the entire Southern Philippines. NUSTAR will be the first of its kind and the biggest lifestyle and entertainment destination outside Metro Manila. Accessibility to the World Carved on the picturesque Kawit Island in South Road Properties, NUSTAR is strategically situated along the spectacular east coast of Cebu. Through its remarkable air entry point via the newly expanded Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA) as well as its easy access through the Cebu Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), NUSTAR is expected to welcome domestic and international guests, especially the millions living south of

Luzon and regular tourists from Korea, China, and Japan, among others. Iconic Destination for Leisure, Business and Entertainment NUSTAR will be a collaborative masterpiece of renowned international master development planners and interior designers. The design will reflect a majestic development executed with luxurious artistry to evoke a world-class sense of style and sophistication. The iconic grandeur will feature an expansive casino facility, three hotel towers, and a four-level shopping haven. Through its world-class casino, NUSTAR will introduce a new way of experiencing the pleasure of gaming as it opens the largest and most varied gaming floor in the island of Cebu. Patrons will surely enjoy the thrill of exciting gaming action complemented by live performances in the Entertainment Bar and

exclusive events in the Sports Bar. The hotels, on the other hand, will be equipped with beautifully-appointed rooms designed to elevate the gold standard in luxury accommodations. Finally, its sprawling retail space will house cutting-edge labels, high-fashion boutiques, plush VIP cinemas, and a carefullycurated mix of global and regional dining concepts. NUSTAR will showcase locally loved brands and globally acclaimed restaurants that

cater to every discerning palate. Safety is the utmost priority The resort will boast a 100% vaccinated workforce to ensure guest safety and security during their excursions. All entry points, venues, and attractions will also be equipped with state-ofthe-art disinfectant measures and procedures to give guests peace of mind when they are at the resort. As Asia’s newest landmark attraction, NUSTAR is envisioned to

become the choice venue for showcasing global Filipino lifestyle and culture, and for hosting business conferences and social gatherings. From exclusive productions and award-winning musicals, to live concerts, NUSTAR will set the stage for endless entertainment in its nouveau Performing Arts Theater equipped with state-of-the-art technology and ultramodern facilities. Meanwhile, its extensive Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions

(MICE) facilities will create the perfect setting for the most remarkable of celebrations and functions. Composed of flexible exhibition halls, elegant ballrooms, and a convention center, its collection of venues seamlessly combines business and leisure in a single destination. NUSTAR will complete its promise of delivering unparalleled experiences to guests of all ages through its very own water theme park and an iconic viewing deck located at the pinnacle of the main NUSTAR Hotel tower. NUSTAR Resort and Casino is the flagship project of Universal Hotels and Resorts, Inc., a privately owned corporation of the Gokongwei Group focused primarily on gaming and integrated resort developments across the Philippines. For more information, log on at www. nustar.ph or email contactus@ nustar.ph.