BusinessWeek Mindanao (January 11-12, 2023)

More investments

DAVAO City – The Davao region will see more investments in 2023 following efforts to expedite recovery from the impact of the pandemic that has crippled the local economy in the past two years, the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA)Davao said.

In her report on the Davao region’s 2022 Socioeconomic Performance and Development Outlook for 2023, NEDA-Davao director Maria Lourdes Lim said increased investments are expected just as global, national, and local economies exert more efforts to reverse the impact of the pandemic.

Lim said the declaration of the Davao region as a Tourism and Investment-Ready Destination, efforts to position the region as an international logistics hub, and current program of the government to strengthen local public-private partnerships would help attract investments. “This would facilitate even more investments in Davao region,” she said.

Biz renewal up

DAVAO City – The Davao City Business Bureau (CBB) noted on Tuesday a 16 percent increase in the first five days of the business renewal application here. In a radio interview, CBB head Maribel Paguican said they have seen the notable result from Jan. 3-6, and Jan. 9, wherein 13,806 applications have been generated compared to last year's five-day operation with 11,912. “That means we have an increase of 1,894 applications," she said, adding that 19 percent or 2,648 of the 13,806 business renewals have been paid.

Vax drive

THE Cagayan de Oro city government is targeting more children for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) and measles immunization, an official said Monday. Dr. Inah Grace Chiu, the city’s medical director of the National Immunization Program, said the Department of Health in Northern Mindanao Region (DOH10) has directed the City Health Office (CHO) to target 70 percent full vaccination of children aged five to 11 years old in the Covid-19 drive. The DOH-10 also ordered a 100 percent first booster dose coverage for 12-17-year-olds in the same drive.

Davao logs highest inflation rate in Nov.

By ANTONIO V. COLINA MindaNews

DAVAO City – The Davao region logged a 9.7 percent inflation rate last November, the highest among the 17 regions in the country.

A report released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-Davao on Sunday, Jan. 8, said the region’s inflation rate slightly improved compared to the 9.8 percent in October, the highest increase reported in the first 11 months of 2022.

From January to November, the average inflation was 7.3 percent.

During the Davao region’s 2022 Socioeconomic Performance and

Development Outlook for 2023 on Dec. 28, Maria Lourdes Lim, director of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA)-Davao, said the continuous high inflation remains a challenge for the region.

“With high inflation, the purchasing power of the peso is reduced and the country’s vulnerable sectors shall be negatively affected,” she said.

10,000 join CDO’s ‘Traslacion’, but mostly elderly people

By FROILAN GALLARDO MindaNews

CAGAYAN de Oro Archbishop Jose Cabantan expressed concern that most of the 10,000 attendees of the Traslacion or the procession of the Black Nazarene on Monday here were elderly devotees.

He lamented that the Generation Z (Gen Z) and the millennials “are shifting away from traditional religious

rituals in favor of social media and activities designed for the youth.”

Gen Z, also known as zoomers, iGeneration or centennials, is the generation cohort following millennials, born between 1997 and 2012.

“The young (people) seem to not appreciate that religious rituals like the Black Nazarene helps fortify their faith,” the

South Cotabato mulls soybean production

By BONG S. SARMIENTO MindaNews

KORONADAL City – The provincial government of South Cotabato is mulling the development of soybean production as one of the keys to ensure food security in the area.

Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. bared on Tuesday plans to start the propagation of soybean in the province as an ingredient for feed production.

“We already produce copra meal, tiki-tiki and corn. What’s lacking is soya beans, so we can produce feeds for our livestock

industry to create a cycle that will ensure food security for our livestock industry,” he said after the flag-raising ceremony at the provincial capitol here.

Tamayo said they are looking to develop at least 1,000 hectares for soybean

DAVAO

Alsons Dev is the real estate

Mobile SIM card registration rolling out soon in Davao region

By ANTONIO V. COLINA MindaNews

DAVAO City —

Telecommunications (telcos) companies will roll out mobile SIM card registrations in different municipalities in the Davao region to reach out subscribers in far-flung communities without internet

access, an official of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC)-Davao said on Monday.

Nelson Cañete, NTCDavao director, said during the Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM City Davao on Monday that the telcos are planning to start the mobile registrations

of SIM cards, also known as subscriber identity module, in a few weeks’ time to provide assistance to mobile phone users in areas with no access to the internet.

He said the telcos are mandated by Republic Act 11934 or the SIM Card

City — Former Sarangani Governor Miguel Rene Alcantara Dominguez has joined the 60-year-old Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) as its new director who will oversee the business strategy and operations of the premier property developer and real estate pioneer in Davao City.

FEAST OF BLACK NAZARENE. Police estimate at least 10,000 devotees joined the Traslacion of the Black Nazarene despite the inclement weather on Monday, 09 January 2023, in Cagayan de Oro City. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

FAINTED DEVOTEE. Emergency responders check on an elderly devotee who fainted during the Traslacion of the Black Nazarene in Cagayan de Oro City. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

22 Caraga top police execs tender courtesy resignations

BUTUAN City – A total of 21 police colonels and a brigadier general in the Police Regional Office in the Caraga Region (PRO13) tendered their courtesy resignations on Monday in support of the recent call made by Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. “All the 21 colonels have tendered their courtesy resignation. The four could not attend the command conference today because of the difficulties in traveling from their assignments as we are experiencing bad weather conditions,” Maj. Jennifer Ometer, the chief of the PRO13 Public Information Office,

told Philippine News Agency. In an earlier statement Sunday, the senior police officers in the region, led by PRO-13 Director Brig. Gen. Pablo Labra II, said they are also ready to face the process of cleansing the ranks of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to free the organization from "all accusations and doubts."

“In the meantime, we will continue our fight against illegal drugs, terrorism, and all kinds of criminality, and serve the community as part of our sworn duty,” the senior officers said. Ometer noted that Abalos’ call is in line with the Malasakit, Kaayusan, Kapayapaan, and Kaunlaran

or MKK=K program of the PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. “The letter M or Malasakit does imply not only external cleansing but also internal cleansing from within our ranks,” Ometer said. She added that all the personnel of PRO-13, especially in the different units and stations will continue to render their duties and responsibilities to ensure the security and safety of the public. Abalos issued the call for courtesy resignation of all colonels and generals in the PNP as part of the efforts to address the drug problem that continue to hound the police ranks in the country. (PNA)

Davao Norte wins award for nutrition programs

DAVAO City – The Davao del Norte provincial government was recognized by the National Nutritional Council Davao Region (NNC-11) on Friday for implementing nutrition programs effectively. In a ceremony held here, Davao del Norte received the “Pagasa Award for Provincial Level” for 2022, a distinction given by NNC-11 in recognition of the provincial government's outstanding planning, management and implementation of local nutrition programs. The province recorded the lowest prevalence of stunting, wasting, underweight, overweight and obesity based on the 2022 Operation Timbang Plus (OTP) results in the region. “I would like to share this success with

those who worked hard to bring fulfillment to our nutrition programs in the province, especially to our barangay health workers, barangay nutrition scholars, and coordinators, who are at the frontline of the program implementation in the grassroots communities,” Governor Edwin Jubahib said. He said the recognition demonstrated his administration's dedication in tackling malnutrition and promoting the well-being and vitality of children. “Health and social services undoubtedly occupy a very important space in my administration,” Jubahib said. He also thanked the provincial health office, local government units, and academic institutions

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

for their efforts in addressing malnutrition and other nutrition-related issues in their respective communities. The NNC11 also cited Dr. Alfred Lacerona, the Davao del Norte Provincial Health Office head, and May Flor Espiritu, as Regional Outstanding Provincial Nutrition Action Officer, and Regional Outstanding District Nutrition Program Coordinator, respectively. (PNA)

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

KNOW ALL MEN BY THES PRESENTS: That the late LUIS FACTURA LANCERO, JR., who died on February 14, 2008, in Kaiser Foundation Hospital, Los Angeles, California, U. S. A; died without any will or testament and without any outstanding debts in favor of any person or entity, that at the time of his death, left a certain real property, A PARCEL OF LAND with TCT No. T-44475, situated in the City of Cagayan de Oro, containing an area of SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY TWO (772) SQUARE METERS, more or less. Is the subject of EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE, made and entered into this 22nd day of DECEMBER 2021 by and among: LUIS LEY LANCERO, III, of legal age, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 5631 Finnestera Drive, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America; MARICOR LEY LANCERO-STAMPLEMAN, of legal age, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 2626 Highland Avenue, Santa Monica, California, 90405, United States of America; MARIE LOUISE LEY LANCERO, of legal age, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 6576 Quinton Lane, Tujunga, California 91042, United States of America;

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

We are hereby informing the public, particularly our clients and advertisers that : Mindanao Daily News Publishing Corporation Official Receipt No. 6116 Is hereby declared null and void. The said receipt was lost in our files and may have been stolen. Thus, the use of said Official Receipt is non-official and will not be honored by the Management of Mindanao Daily News Publishing Corporation. The user could be held criminally liable.

-The MDN Publishing Corporation-

MARIE ANN LEY LANCERO, of legal age, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 1530 Harvard Street, Apartment # F, Santa Monica, California, 90404, United States of America;

MARIE SELLE LEY LANCERO, of legal age, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 320 Raymond Drive, Benicia, California, United States of America; HOPE MARIE LEY LANCERO, of legal age, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 432 Stanford Ave., Palo Alto, California, United States of America; Registered in the name of LUIS F. LANCERO, JR., married to Corazon Lai Lancero and residents of Long Beach, California, U.S.A.; ROLANDO F. LANCERO, married to Leticia Abuton and resident of Ozamiz City; LUZMIN L. CAAGBAY, married to Pastor Caagbay, and resident of Cagayan de Oro City; EPHRAIM F. LANCERO, married to Virginia Estabillo and resident of Tagum, Davao; PRECIOUSA L. ROA, married to Waldo A. Roa and resident of Cagayan de Oro. THAT said deceased co-owned the abovedescribed property together with his siblings, and owned one-fifth (1/5) of it; Filed by the heirs of LUIS FACTURA LANCERO. As per Doc. No. 331; Page No. 68; Book No. VIII; Series of 2021 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. JESUS CARLO JOENIL A. QUIRAP.

This is to inform the public that PLACEWELL INTERNATIONAL SERVICES CORP. - CAGAYAN DE ORO BRANCH has transferred to new location located at 3/F RM, 308 KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS BLDG. CAPT. V. ROA ST., CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, MISAMIS ORIENTAL.

Banking & finance

PH to see decline in debt burden in 2023

THE PHILIPPINES will likely see its debt decline this year amid continued economic growth, Moody’s Investors Service said on Monday.

“For only a few sovereigns, including Fiji, Maldives and the Philippines, debt burdens will decline by several percentage points in 2023, driven by high nominal GDP (gross domestic product) growth,” Moody’s said in a Jan. 9 report.

“But their debt burdens will still hover far above prepandemic levels.”

The National Government’s outstanding debt rose by an annual 14% to a record-high of P13.644 trillion as of end-November.

However, the endNovember debt inched up by only 0.02% month on month “primarily due to the effect of local currency appreciation against the US dollar on foreign currency

loans.”

The debt-to-GDP ratio stood at 63.7% as of the end of the third quarter, which is above the 60% threshold prescribed by multilateral lenders. This is the highest debt-to-GDP ratio in 17 years, and significantly higher than the 39.6% seen in 2019.

This year, economic managers are aiming to bring down the debt-to-GDP ratio to 60-62%, as the Philippine economy is expected to expand by 6-7%.

“While debt burdens have peaked, scope for significant reduction is limited. Although deficits are likely to decline, debt reduction will be modest and burdens will remain close to 2022 levels. Fiscal deficits for most governments are likely to be equivalent to or near their debt-stabilizing fiscal balance,” Moody’s said.

Economic managers in December revised the deficit

projection to 6.9% of GDP in 2022, but maintained its target deficit to 6.1% of GDP for 2023. The deficit is projected to continue to decline in the next few years to 3% of GDP in 2028.

Moody’s said its outlook for sovereign creditworthiness in the Asia-Pacific region is “stable,” in contrast to the “negative” outlook for other regions.

“Debt sustainability and financial stability are relatively well anchored in the region, with contained government liquidity risks, broadly stable debt dynamics and generally sound external positions. GDP growth will stabilize close to potential levels and outperform other regions, despite higher global inflation and tighter financial conditions,” Moody’s said.

However, social pressures have slowed the progress of fiscal consolidation of most

Asia-Pacific economies, it added.

“Debt affordability will fall from generally robust levels as interest rates rise and will be manageable for most in the region,” Moody’s said.

As the pace of rate hikes in the United States and Europe are expected to slow this year, Moody’s said this will reduce pressure on Asia-Pacific central banks to tighten policy or to mitigate currency depreciation.

Meanwhile, the AsiaPacific region’s economic growth will be slower this year, but will still be stronger compared with other regions, Moody’s said.

“Growth will be lower than in 2022, but close to potential in most cases, underpinning broad credit stability. Slowing economic activity in large export markets such as the

HSBC eyes 4.4% growth for PH economy in 2023

HIKES in the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) key policy rates are expected to dampen the strong domestic output for 2023, with an executive of HSBC forecasting a 4.4 percent expansion this year.

In a virtual briefing on Thursday, HSBC chief investment officer for Southeast Asia, Global Private Banking and Wealth, James Cheo, said private consumption contributed to the strong recovery of the domestic economy last year but this is seen to be limited by the monetary tightening

aimed to temper the elevated inflation rate.

Other factors that boosted gross domestic product (GDP) last year include investments, higher government spending on infrastructure and increased mobility following the resumption of face-to-face schooling, he said.

“Looking into 2023, the country’s growth will slow and the recovery is going to be more gradual as the reopening boost fades and monetary tightening weighs on domestic demand,” Cheo said.

Importance of reading

By Catherine D. Dalito Teacher I Kisolon Central Elementary School Kisolon Sumilao Bukidnon

READING gets your mind working across different areas. For starters, it involves comprehension to process the words you read. Beyond that, you can use your analytical abilities, stimulate memories, and even broaden your imagination by reading words off a page.

Beyond reading, because you have to, the importance of reading cannot go unnoticed.

Reading is a neurobiological process that works out your brain muscles. As you do so, you can help to slow down cognitive decline and even decrease the rate at which memory fades. Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley have even found that reading reduces the

level of beta-amyloid, which is a protein in the brain that is connected to Alzheimer’s. Who knew that reading could have physical, psychological, and spiritual benefits?

Both reading and writing work to improve one’s communication skills. That’s why if you’re looking to become a better writer, many of the suggestions that you come across will include reading more. Reading can open your eyes, literally and figuratively, to new words. Try this next time you read: if you come across any words you read that you don’t know, take a moment to look them up and write them down. Then, remember to use your new words in your speech so you don’t forget them!

As of the third quarter of last year, growth, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), rose by 7.76 percent, exceeding the government’s 6.5 to 7.5 percent growth assumption for this year.

The BSP’s key rates have been hiked by 350 basis points from May to December last year, after being at recordlow of 2 percent in 2020, as monetary authorities help address the elevated inflation rate.

Last December, domestic rate of price increases further accelerated to 8.1 percent, the highest since November 2008, due to faster annual jumps in goods and energy prices.

Cheo said “household’s consumption in 2023 will likely be curtailed” given the elevated inflation rate.

“Strong employment, tourism recovery, expanding production and retail sales,

CAPABILITIES AND SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PRACTICESAMONG JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

By Alejandro A. Romeo Secondary School Teacher – I Alubijid National Comprehensive High School

This study aimed to determine the capacity of Grade 10 students on solid waste management in the three selected schools of Alubijid District, Misamis Oriental. Knowledge, attitude towards solid waste management and availability of waste disposal resources were determined to assess the respondents’ level of capacities towards solid waste management in terms of segregation, collection, transport, and storage. This study also determined how effective their practices on solid waste management was as rated by the respondents based on segregation, collection, transport, and storage. There was a total of two hundred eightyseven (287) respondents. The questionnaire being used was patterned and

modified from the study of Kilat (2017). A quantitative and qualitative method of research was utilized. Hence, correlation technique was employed.

Results showed that majority of the respondents have a positive attitude towards solid waste management.

There was a high level of capacities and practices of solid waste management among the respondents that resulted to the significant relationship of these variables. With these results, it has been concluded that the Department of Education have done their part to effectively monitor the solid waste management in the school program of the area of study. For future studies of their kind, it is recommended that same study shall be conducted to lower grade level.

BPI working to correct double posting of clients’ transactions

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is “closely coordinating” with the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) after the listed lender reported an issue that caused the transactions of its accountholders over the long weekend to be debited twice.

“The BSP is closely coordinating with BPI in relation to the double debit transaction incident affecting BPI accountholders. The Bank already identified the root cause of the operational error and committed to reverse the erroneous transactions and restore mobile and internet banking services the soonest possible,” the central bank said in a statement on Wednesday.

“The BSP has instructed BPI to submit a timeline and updates on the reversal of its erroneous transactions,” it added.

BPI, the country’s thirdlargest bank in terms of assets as of September 2022, on Wednesday said via its social media accounts that some transactions made via its automated teller and cash accept machines, and debit transactions via point-of-sale terminals and e-commerce platforms from Dec. 30-31 were posted twice.

“[P]lease be informed that we expect correction of the duplicate transactions within the day,” BPI said.

The bank said increased inquiries caused intermittent access to its online banking channels.

“Rest assured that your account is safe and secure,” it added.

Complaints from BPI clients accompanied with screenshots of erroneous transactions were posted on various social media sites early on Wednesday.

BPI’s mobile app and website were mostly inaccessible starting 8 AM

on Wednesday, with some users able to log into their accounts but still unable to see their account balances as of this writing.

The bank’s shares went up by 30 centavos or 0.31% to end at P98.30 apiece on Wednesday.

FINANCIAL CYBERSPACE ISSUES

Fitch Asia-Pacific Financial Institutions Director Tamma Febrian noted in an e-mail that this is not the first time BPI experienced this issue.

“We heard of the issue and note that this not exactly the first time BPI experienced duplicate transactions issue. In 2017, the bank also suffered from internal data processing error that resulted in some accounts being debited or credited twice when the bank was in the process to upgrade its systems,” Mr. Febrian said.

“It is not exactly clear on whether the existing glitch is caused by a similar reason (i.e. a system upgrade/fix went haywire) as the bank did say that they are still working to investigate and resolve the matter. However, based on BPI’s past experience as well as the experience of a number of banks in the region that suffered similar duplicate payment issues in recent years, these cases can usually be resolved within a reasonable timeframe,” he added.

House Committee on Banks and Financial Intermediaries Vice Chair and Albay Rep. Jose Maria Clemente S. Salceda said in a statement that the incident shows digital finance in the Philippines remains vulnerable to issues.

“The recent incident of double debiting and incorrect entry of balance details in BPI mobile banking accounts shows how prone to widespread glitches our

Advantages of mandatory conduct of unannounced earthquake and fire drills in school

By CONSESA D. EBDAO Teacher III Esperanza National High School

ALL public schools were directed by DepEd to hold unannounced earthquake and fire drills to help increase the awareness of learners and personnel on what to do when natural calamities occur.

Signed by Vice President and Educaiton Secretary Sara Duterte, DepEd Order 53-2022 was issued requiring all schools to conduct unannounced earthquake and fire drills in schools. DepEd noted that the Philippines is prone to natural disasters and earthquakes since it is located within the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire. These natural hazards, coupled with vulnerabilities, increase the risk of disasters in schools and communities.

DepEd explained that aside from natural disasters, manmade catastrophes also pose serious risks and threats to the safety and security of the students, teachers and other school personnel. Emergencies and calamities may strike anywhere and anytime. Thus, having an effective preparedness plan is the key in preventing disasters and saving lives.

DepEd stressed that local drills and simulation exercises are preventive measures that familiarize escape routes and reinforce proper actions in the occurrence of a calamity.

Frequent practice of these drills and exercises will eventually turn these actions into automatic reflexes that will manifest during an actual calamity.

DANNYCAROSE SUDARIA-HALASAN Marketing Manager 09360462356

Finish Well

Think a minute...Watching the Olympics can be both inspiring and heartbreaking. It is easy to get caught up both with “the thrill of victory” and “the agony of defeat.” This is especially true when the world’s greatest athletes, who have worked so hard their entire lives, lose by only a fraction of a second! Even with all their years of daily discipline and training, they still must finish well! “Almost” winning does not count. No one is remembered and rewarded for what they “almost” did.

In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, both the U.S. men’s and women’s 400 meter relay teams learned this the hard way. They ran well for most of the race, but then just near the end they dropped the baton. One of them, Tyson Gay, who was the 2007 world champion in both the 200 and 100 meter dashes, left the Olympics empty-handed with not even a single medal. He can tell you about the agony of not finishing well!

In 2003, after 22 years

JHAN TIAFAU HURST

of exploration, the Space Shuttle Columbia went on its 28th mission, this time with seven astronauts on board. They were on a 16-day journey into space to conduct important experiments. Everything went well and they achieved their goals, so they were returning to earth from their successful mission. They were just 16 minutes from landing… when suddenly the Space Shuttle Columbia exploded! Only tiny pieces were left of what was one of history’s most sophisticated machines and masterpieces of engineering. But the even greater tragedy was the sudden loss of those seven brave and brilliant

Agriculture’s indispensable role opinion

The current discussion about the spiraling cost of agricultural products such as onions emphasizes the need to address the dysfunction plaguing the country’s agriculture sector resulting from decades of neglect.

In this regard, I doff my hat to Sen. Raffy Tulfo for taking to task his Senate colleague, Cynthia Villar, for their wanton conversion of vast tracts of land dedicated to farming into residential housing subdivisions that her family built their fortune from.

Indeed, the country’s lack of a viable and sensible land utilization policy has reached a level of great concern for we can’t survive economically as a nation by ignoring the importance of agriculture in the development of the economy. Not to mention the importance of agriculture in ensuring food security for every Filipino.

It is truly confounding why government leaders especially those in

the agricultural sector continue to allow through apathy this monstrosity inflicted on that sector by heartless housing development companies. This attitude of both the housing developers and inutile government regulators in the agriculture sector is undeniably not healthy to the country’s efforts at developing the economy.

Agriculture, we all know, is the foundation of any development. A hungry people because of their government’s failure to ensure that food is on the table of every Filipino home can never be a factor toward economic development. A hungry stomach is not productive economically. And an astronomically priced agricultural products such as onions can never feed the hungry stomach.

The other reason for agriculture’s importance in development is its being critical in the supply chain of raw materials that the

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WED-THU | JANUARY 11-12, 2023

mechanized factories can churn into finished goods such as cotton into cloths.

Deprive the factories of these raw materials and kiss goodbye to development. Exactly that is what is happening to our country today.

Just think of this. How can the tomato catsup manufacturers produce this product if agriculture fails to supply them with the raw material which is tomato? And think of the other finished products churned out by the mechanized factories like those that are producing chocolates. Will there be chocolates without cacao? And where does cacao come from?

To optimize agriculture’s role as the source of raw materials huge tracts of land should be dedicated to this effort. We are not saying that we should return to the feudal system. Our countrymen from the mountains of Ifugao had been teaching us valuable lessons about how we should

address this particular area of concern in the agriculture sector.

Government policy makers from the lowlands just don’t lend them an ear.

The Ifugao rice terraces which is one of the world’s wonders was made possible because to the Ifugaos no human can own the land. On the contrary, their view is that the land owns them thus from dust we come and to dust we return.

This is the concept that gave birth to communal farming where people till the land communally without anyone of them owning the land. They till the land because that is what lands are for and as farmers it is their obligation to make the land productive.

ARE YOU IN LOVE WITH YOUR LIFE?

Sometimes, we feel our life is turning miserably. Our negativism doesn't allow us to keep our eyes, ears - and, most important! - our minds, hearts and souls opened. We're reaching our breaking point.

This breaking point can be the prelude to our strongest moment. Can be! Must not! But if yes, then it is when we reach our breaking point, we discover our real strength. Allow me to ask you, my dear readers: "What happens to you or with you when you reach your breaking point?" Do you face it or do you run away? I'll be giving you a very simple answer: If you face it - you break it. If you run away (and/or close your ears, eyes and mouth) - it breaks you!

Are you in love with life?

Contrary to what might be expected, I look back on experiences that, at the same time, seemed especially desolating and

painful with a particular satisfaction. Indeed, everything I have learned, everything that has truly enhanced and enlightened my existence, has been through affliction and not through happiness.

If it ever were to be possible to eliminate affliction from your earthly existence, the result would not be to make life delectable, but to make it too banal and trivial to be endurable.

By observation, we can feel that many of us need help to manage our everyday life. We need something that would keep us going as we journey through life. Many times we can also learn from other people and their experiences.

And here is one more thing: Affection is the humblest love - it gives itself no airs. It lives with humble and private things: soft slippers, old clothes, old jokes, and the thump of a sleepy dog's tail on the kitchen floor.

The glory of affection, the disposition of mind, the good will and tender attachment, that can unite those who are not "made for one and another"! .

The love of your life is the person you are most comfortable with, who you naturally feel that you can be yourself around. This is someone who makes you feel loved for who you most essentially are. When you are loved at this level, you transform into the best possible version of yourself you can be.

Too often we stop ourselves from dreaming and fantasising about the future for fear of disappointment. Yes, life doesn’t always deliver what we hope and we must understand this. But to progress and have goals, we first need to dream and imagine what could be. When we dream we learn about what we truly value in life.

Listen to some ambient music in bed

KLAUS DORING

before you fall asleep and just see where your mind goes. Think about what happiness means to you and notice what that involves. And then think about what action steps you need to take to move closer to reaching your dreams.

For me life has been a thing of ups and downs in approximately equal measure. I don't have something sensational to report every day about my progress. Often, I wonder if fulfillment in life is necessarily tied to change for the better. But one thing is for sure: I keep staying in love with life.

CHRIS PANGANIBAN

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9 Chinese power firms to invest $13.7-B in PH

DEPARTMENT of Energy

(DOE) Secretary Raphael Lotilla has named the nine Chinese companies that committed to invest some $13.76 billion in the Philippines following the recent visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to China.

In a press conference Monday, Lotilla said some of these Chinese companies are already operating in the Philippines and are eyeing for expansion, while some are big names in China’s energy sector.

He said the firms’ combined investments of $13.76 billion will be in renewable energy (RE) development, energy storage systems and off-grid power

supply systems.

"We are very pleased with the enthusiasm we have received from these Chinese companies during our roundtable meeting. They were upbeat with our policy reforms and directions on RE, especially on the opening of 100 percent foreign ownership on wind and solar projects,” he added.

These Chinese companies that pledged to invest in the country include China Energy International Group Co. Ltd (Energy China), China Power International Development (CPID) Ltd., SPIC Guangxi Electric Power Co., Ltd (a subsidiary and a secondary unit of State Power Investment Corporation Limited or SPIC), China Machinery

Engineering Corporation (CMEC), China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN), China Huadian Engineering Co., Ltd. (CHEC), China Tianying, Inc. (CNTY), Dajin Heavy Industry Co., Ltd (DHI), and Mingyang Smart Energy Group, Ltd.

Energy China has been operating throughout the country for more than two decades.

In North Luzon in particular, its operation involves power generation, substation, transmission, cell site and fiber-to-home and data center projects.

SPIC, which has the largest installed capacity of wind power in Guangxi, is involved in the 230-kV substation engineering, procurement

Simple yet Meaningful

By Jocelyn Docdoc Baja Teacher III Tambagan Elementary School

The Department of Education (DepEd) has reminded public schools and their field offices to make their Christmas celebrations simple yet meaningful.

In a department order (DO) signed by Vice President and DepEd Secretary, Sara Duterte, Deped said that celebrations in public schools should be simple yet meaningful, keeping in mind the true spirit of the season and the austerity called for by the difficult economic times.”

Tambagan Elementary School teachers and pupils celebrated a Classroom Christmas Party last December 15,2022 in a simple way yet a meaningful one. The expenses for the food and snacks are voluntary. No learner should be forced to contribute. The opinions of exchanging gifts are majority agreed by the

parents during the Homeroom PTA meeting and it is guided by the spirit of sharing and should not lead to extravagant expending considering their economic status.

One of the parents said that “now is the time for the children to bring back the old days, as it was practiced before Pandemic, to develop the socialization of their children and to experience again the joy and the happiness during Christmas Party”.

The party started at 9:00 am and ended at 2:00 pm. It was a day full of fun and pleasure. It was really a great day for them. No learners are left behind because all of them participated in several activities. Since it was their day, they were responsible for handling the program for the whole duration. And it is solely their event, so it is exclusive for

them. The learners were trained to be independent.

The essence of gift giving was being imparted. Children’s faces were filled with unbridled delight as they competed picking up candies. The belongingness was bestowed as they participated with the different parlor games.

Everyone dressed properly. Sang lovely carols and danced beautifully to wish their teacher and classmates a happy holiday.

The said activity is an excellent time for the learners to unwind and have fun after 2 years of Pandemic. It is simple but meaningful, the contentment of the children cannot be brought by money. They enjoy so much this little pleasure because real excitement lies in the smaller things. They departed each other with memories that linger in their hearts and minds.

and construction (EPC) project in Navotas, the 500kV substation EPC project in Pagbilao, the Taguig-Baras 500 kV overhead transmission line EPC, and the Abuyog 230-kV substation EPC project.

China’s Mingyang is a world leader in providing renewable energy solution. It is also the world’s sixth largest manufacturer of wind turbine generators with a cumulative installation of 45 gigawatt.

Mingyang’s technology is vital for the Philippines as the government targets more offshore wind power projects in the future.

Other Chinese companies that expressed investment commitments to the Philippines, which will also be important players in the offshore wind sector, are CGN and DHI.

DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT/PARTITION

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS

That the late CRISOGONO S. NAILES , SR , who died intestate and without leaving a Will on January 9, 1990 at Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental; That at the time of death of the above decedents, they left a Parcel of Land with Tax Declaration No. 08-140001-00359 , identified as 1872, PLS 799, situated at Poblacion, Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, containing an area of THREE HUNDRED SEVENTY TWO (372) Square Meters , And has been the subject of DEED OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT/ PARTITION, filed by the heirs of CRISOGONO S. NAILES, SR,. As per Doc No. 331; Page No. 67; Book No. 4; Series of 2021 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. FRANCIS ANDREW O. PADUGANAN.

BWM: Jan 4, 11 & 18, 2023

Developing Youthful Leaders

By Eirene Mar B. Otom Teacher 3- Mangilay 1 Elementary School Siayan District-Division of Zamboanga del Norte

People say that "leaders are born," but "leaders are made," in my opinion. For years, as an adviser to Supreme Pupil Government (SPG), I experimented with ways to develop young leaders.

I uncover and reveal what is within them. I delve into their weaknesses and strengths because knowing them well can guide me on how to begin their journey.

I empower them. I make certain that young leaders have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of leadership. Seminars and workshops are provided to help them get started. I believe that no one can enter practice without first learning the theories.

I let them put what they've learned into practice. I give them activities to practice applying the theories they've learned. It is pointless to learn theories without applying them. That is why

I make certain that they have opportunities to apply. When opportunities are scarce, I even set up some instances.

I support them. As an adviser, I make certain that they are aware of my presence. As young as they are, I need to be there to hold their hands and guide them.

I request help from their family, friends, and others. Nothing beats the feeling of being surrounded by people who care. When things get tough, I look for ways that people other than myself can help. School officials also provide assistance in various ways.

Finally, I appeal to God for help. It is difficult to mold young children into future leaders. I do seek His assistance after making all necessary preparations. I believe that His intervention will be necessary to complete the process.

CGN is China’s pioneer in offshore wind development and largest single offshore wind power capacity.

Globally, it has total capacity of 35,000 MW for wind power and 10,000 MW for solar.

CGN is also China’s first nuclear power producer and the third biggest nuclear power producer in the world.

Listed firm DHI, on the other hand, is currently constructing a 300-MW wind power project.

CMEC is part of the world’s top 500 companies, while CNTY belongs to Fortune China 500.

CPID and CHEC are both

looking into establishing local entities to invest in renewable energy projects in the Philippines.

"I have now instructed our Renewable Energy Management Bureau (REMB) and Investment Promotions Office (IPO) to start communicating with them and provide the full support to hasten this particular cooperation between the Philippines and China," Lotilla added.

During the state visit of Marcos to China last week, the DOE chief met with leaders of various Chinese energy firms where he presented

Oil firms implement first price rollback

OIL firms have implemented this year’s first price rollback yesterday, January 20, 2023.

In separate advisories, Cleanfuel, Jetti, Petro Gazz, PTT Philippines, Seaoil and Shell said they reduced diesel prices by P2.80 per liter and P0.75 per liter on gasoline.

Seaoil and Shell they also cut kerosene prices by P2.10 per liter.

Other oil companies are expected to implement the same price adjustments.

The latest rollback snapped the three straight weeks of oil price increases.

As of writing, West

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED NORMA P. MERMEJO WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE.

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS: That the late, NORMA PAREL MERMEJO who died intestate on December 1, 1997 at Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City, and left a certain parcel of land, with an improvement therein, the said property is co-owned with her spouse APOLIO S. MERMEJO acquired from the PAGLAUM SETTLERS ASSOCIATION, INC., Identified as , A PARCEL OF LAND with TCT No. T-124003 of the Register of Deeds for the City of Cagayan de Oro, situated in the Barrio of Carmen, City of Cagayan de Oro, Island of Mindanao, containing an area of SIXTY SIX (66) SQUARE METERS, more or less, registered in the name of PAGLAUM SETTLERS ASSOCIATION INC. And has been the subject of EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF THE ESTATE OF THE DECEASED NORMA P. MERMEJO WITH DEED OF ABSOLUTE SALE. NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the foregoing premises, invoking the provision of Section 1, Rule 74 of the Rules of Court, the parties hereto mutually agree, stipulate and covenant to adjudicate the afore-described property among themselves, and give the ownership, title, and possession of the whole property to Cindy Easther P. Mermejo. All heirs waive their share over the afore-described property Cindy Easther P. Mermejo, filed by the heirs of NORMA P. MERMEJO.

As per Doc. No. 342; Page No. 70; Book No. XIII; Series of 2022 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. JESUS CARLO JOENIL A QUIRAP. BWM: Jan 11, 18 & 25, 2023

Texas Intermediate traded at $75.55 per barrel and Brent crude at $80.36 per barrel.

Last week, Dubai crude was selling at $75.40 per barrel.

Energy department’s monitoring data showed that the average gasoline prices in Metro Manila range from P58 to P81.67 per liter; diesel prices, from P60 to P81.25 per liter; and kerosene from P74.80 to P83.74 per liter. (PNA)

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

KNOW ALL MEN BY THES PRESENTS: That the late LUZMIN LANCERO CAAGBAY, who died on November 1, 2015 in Madonna and Child Hospital, J.V. Seriña St., Carmen, Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, died without any will or testament and without any outstanding debts in favor of any person or entity, that at the time of her death, left a certain real property, A PARCEL OF LAND with TCT No. T-44475, situated in the City of Cagayan de Oro, containing an area of SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY TWO (772) SQUARE METERS, more or less. Is the subject of EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE, AGREEMENT made and entered into this 22nd day of DECEMBER 2021 by and among: MARILOU LANCERO CAAGBAYBERZA, of legal age, Filipino, and with residence and postal address at P-9 Dabong-dabong, Valencia City, Bukidnon; JUNE LANCERO CAAGBAY-STARKE, of legal age, Filipino, and with residence and postal address at Bahnhofstr. 51, 63500 Seligenstadt, Hessen, Germany. Registered in the name of LUIS F. LANCERO, JR., married to Corazon Lai Lancero and residents of Long Beach, California, U.S.A.; ROLANDO F. LANCERO, married to Leticia Abuton and resident of Ozamiz City; LUZMIN L. CAAGBAY, married to Pastor Caagbay, and resident of Cagayan de Oro City; EPHRAIM F. LANCERO, married to Virginia Estabillo and resident of Tagum, Davao; PRECIOUSA L. ROA, married to Waldo A. Roa and resident of Cagayan de Oro. THAT said deceased co-owned the abovedescribed property together with his siblings, and owned one-fifth (1/5) of it; Filed by the heirs of LUZMIN LANCERO CAAGBAY, as per Doc. No. 330; Page No. 67; Book No. VIII; Series of 2021 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. JESUS CARLO JOENIL A. QUIRAP. BWM: Jan 11, 18 & 25, 2023

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES)

CREDIBLE RELIABLE IN-DEPTH

Editor: GILBERT Y. CHAO

Safe and reliable digital banking for OFWs

The country’s first branchless digital-only bank warns users on cybersecurity risks. 09 January 2023, Manila, Philippines - As more Filipinos continue to make the shift to online banking and digital payments amid the post- pandemic era, cybercriminals are on the rise to take advantage of human and system vulnerabilities.

According to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) 2021 cyber threats surveillance, the top three types of cyber incidents reported by its supervised financial institutions (BSFIs) were: phishing, “card not present” fraud, and identity theft. In 2021 alone, the Bankers Association of the Philippines revealed that unauthorized withdrawals and transfers reached more than 1 billion amid the rise of cybercrime. Consumers found a safeguard against these threats with the passing into law of RA No. 11765 or the Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act (FCPA) in June 2021. This law aims to strengthen consumer

RA Form No. 10.l(LCRO)

protection mechanisms and authorized regulators such as BSP and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), to enforce the law on banks and financial institutions.

“Consumer welfare is a continuing agenda of the BSP. We enjoin financial institutions, bank organizations, and relevant partners and stakeholders to push consumer protection initiatives forward as the responsibility is too great for any entity to take on singly,” said BSP Governor Benjamin Diokno.

Overseas Filipino Bank (OFBank) President and CEO Leila Martin said in an interview, “OFBank, as an example, uses technology to

Republic of the Philippines Local Civil Registry Office Province of Lanao del Norte Municipality of Kapatagan

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

Incompliance with Section 7 of R.A. No. 10172, a notice is hereby served to the public that CHARLIE R. SEGOVIA , has filed with this Office a Petition for Correction of Clerical Error to correct the SEX from MALE to FEMALE in the Certificate of Live Birth of CHARLIE VALDEZ RESPUESTO who was born on JULY 22, 1978 at KAROMATAN(NOW SULTAN NAGA DIMAPORO), LANAO DEL NORTE and whose parents are MACARIO RESPUESTO

minimize risks to its clients – from the very first step of opening an account on its digital platform. Consumer protection is enhanced through the OFBank Mobile App, which utilizes artificial intelligence to facilitate an electronic knowyour-customer (e-KYC) process to verify and validate uploaded application information and requirements. The app also has advanced encryption and security technology that protects sensitive information.”

While OFBank continues to enhance its digital security, Martin adds that cybersecurity is a two-way street wherein customers play a significant role. Mindful online behavior

Philippine folklore inspires future artists in Shell National Students Art Competition (NSAC) Virtual Art Interact

By Mike Baños

The Shell National Student Art Competition (NSAC) Virtual Art Interact Leg 2 inspires young artists to express their creativity while preserving Philippine culture and heritage. (Top Left-Right): Serge Bernal, Pilipinas Shell Vice President for Corporate Relations; Tristan Yuvienco, Digital Artist; (Bottom Left-Right): Andrei Pamintuan, Creative Director of FringeMNL; and Rovi Salegumba, NSAC Alumnus and Winner.

Young artists captured the universe of kapres, tikbalangs and other characters in Philippine mythology at the recent Shell NSAC Virtual Art Interact.

During the second leg of the three-part virtual series, this year’s theme “Sulong Sining” (“Art Advances”) was illustrated by Philippine fantasy artists delving into the country’s folklore. Serge Bernal, Pilipinas Shell Vice President for Corporate Relations, said, “Sulong” means charging forward and “sining” means art. The theme really encourages students to share their creative talents and showcase the bright future that they envision through the arts.”

The discussions between the renowned artists and young creatives revolved around the origins of popular supernatural entities, how these stories were passed on to generations through word of mouth, their modern relevance, and translating the insights into sketching compositions.

Gods and spirits

As seen on the internet today, ancient Philippine myths and creatures are taking on a new life, capturing the imagination of a new generation of visual storytellers who are giving them diverse interpretations.

Digital artist Tristan

Yuviengco’s workshop featured Pinoy cryptid character design, based on his research from both oral traditions and modern depictions: “I like grabbing stuff from existing media and from nature,” he explained his process. “Kumuha ako ng [I got] photos ng balete tree, a mythical tree in a lot of media. I got modern depictions of diwata, a fairy or a nature spirit; minsan god siya [sometimes it is a god]. That is what is very interesting about Philippine myths: sobrang [very] diverse talaga from the oral traditions which I wish will be preserved.”

Other characters that the student artists illustrated were the Visayan ugang-ugang portrayed in a whimsical rather than grotesque manner, and a kapre illustrated as a tree with arms and legs.

Yuviengco voiced that these modern representations of other creatures like the manananggals and tikbalangs are important because they “still keep the essence” of the myths “but still innovate:

“Sometimes they even add a fantastical thing that I’ve never heard of pero sabi nila [but they said] that’s what their parents told them. That’s very fascinating and I’m excited to see more.”

Cultural evolution

Meanwhile, NSAC alumnus Rovi Salegumba reiterated that “for culture and tradition to evolve and survive, it needs to adapt. I actually see it getting modernized. I’m excited to see how the future generations would re- envision or reinterpret traditional stories such as mythical creatures.”

He added that this newfound interest in Filipino mythology is still extending to other parts of our ancient culture such as the baybayin script or the written language of the pre-Hispanic dwellers of the more than 7,000-island archipelago. “We have a rich cultural heritage,” he emphasized. “It’s part of our identity and my art is all about celebrating it. I want people to encourage our rich culture.”

As this period of cultural evolution in Philippine art unfolds, Yuvienco, who also works in animation, sees Filipino culture extending internationally: “ I would see art from Filipinos outsourced abroad. I’ve also been seeing great and amazing projects and ideas made with Filipino voice and these ideas would always promote culture and new stories in a new and innovative kind of light. We have so many stories and so many ideas and I feel we’re definitely one to tell them to the world and to other people.”

With its decades-long history, Pilipinas Shell’s NSAC continues to be a platform to develop and nurture young Filipino visual artists. The longest-running student arts competition in the country remains on the move towards harnessing Filipino artistry through opportunities for budding artists to develop their craft by learning from Shell NSAC alumni and established personalities in the art scene.

OFBank mobile app provides a safe and secure digital banking experience to its users by restricting unauthorized transactions with two-factor authentication and one-time passwords.

and ELENITA VALDEZ Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this Office not later than 15 days.

(Sgd.) IVY R. TONGCO, LPT, J.D. Municipal Civil Registrar MDN: Jan 4 & 11, 2023

The Shell National Student Art Competition (NSAC) Virtual Art Interact Leg 2 inspires young artists to express their creativity while preserving Philippine culture and heritage. (Top Left-Right): Serge Bernal, Pilipinas Shell Vice President for Corporate Relations; Tristan Yuvienco, Digital Artist; (Bottom Left-Right): Andrei Pamintuan, Creative Director of FringeMNL; and Rovi Salegumba, NSAC Alumnus and Winner.

Lim added that ensuring food security in the short and long term through timely importation and addressing long-standing supplyside constraints in agriculture value chains must be done.

The PSA-Davao said that deceleration was due to the lower annual growth rate in the index of transport at 13.4 percent from 15.3 percent in October, and the lower annual index of housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels at 7.7 percent from 8.4 percent.

Western Visayas had the second-highest inflation rate in November at 9.6 percent. Zamboanga Peninsula was third at 8.9 percent.

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao had the lowest inflation at six percent.

National inflation in November was eight percent.

facilities to farmers, he said.

Tamayo stressed the need to protect the livestock industry of the province for the area’s food security.

If the province can produce soybeans as an ingredient for animal feed meal, that will augur well to the province’s food security since the other feed components are available locally, the governor said.

He was referring to the possibility of producing commercial feed meal locally for the consumption of commercial and backyard livestock producers.

South Cotabato, including the chartered city of General Santos, is among the major swine producers in the country.

the provisions of Data Privacy Act, in compliance with court order or legal process upon finding of probable cause, when telcos receive subpoena from a competent authority pursuant to an investigation based on a sworn complaint that a specific mobile number was or is being used as a means to commit a malicious, fraudulent or unlawful act, and with written consent of the subscribers.

audit of the systems used by banks in the country and set a benchmark for security. As the primary regulatory body, the BSP must put to task financial institutions that fail to pass security standards that put at risk the money of our people,” he added.

astronauts. They came so close, only 16 minutes from home, but they did not make it.

US and EU will weaken a major engine of growth for the region, although a modest upturn in China will provide support,” Moody’s said.

prelate said.

The Traslacion or the procession of the life-sized replica of a dark-skinned, kneeling Jesus Christ was held from the Cagayan de Oro Metropolitan Cathedral to the San Juan Nazareno parish church in Barangay Lapasan early Monday morning.

Despite pointing out the low youth attendance, Cabantan, however, was elated by this morning’s turnout.

“Despite two years of absence because of the COVID-19 pandemic, people still pray to the Black Nazarene. Sadly, the youth was not there,” Cabantan said.

Father Der John Faborada, head of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro’s social communication department, said the absence of the youth was understandable since classes in all religious schools in the city resumed on Monday.

Faborada said the other youth activities of the archdiocese were well-attended by young members.

Compared to Manila, devotees in Cagayan de Oro were allowed to celebrate the Traslacion or the traditional long procession transferring the image of the Black Nazarene.

This is the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic reared its ugly head in 2020 that the city held the Traslacion anew.

During the two years of the pandemic, the image of the Black Nazarene was transported on top of a small truck and paraded around the city.

Nick Jabagat, of the Cagayan de Oro Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, said that at least 10,000 devotees braved the inclement weather brought by the trough of a low pressure area off Mindanao to attend the procession.

Jabagat said medical responders attended to two devotees, one identified as Ralph del Puerto, 56, of Barangay 26 this city, after they complained of dizziness.

The South Cotabato Swine Producers Association, the biggest association of commercial swine farms in the area with at least 20 members, has a combined sow population of 55,000 and produces at least 45,000 heads of hogs a month.

Based on the 2020 chicken inventory in Soccsksargen issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority, South Cotabato recorded the highest stocks at 58.7 percent or 5.68 million birds, followed by North Cotabato at 27 percent (2.61 million birds), Sarangani at 7.9 percent (767,920 birds) and Sultan Kudarat at 6.4 percent (620,410 birds).

Soybean, a rich source of plant-based protein, is a major ingredient in animal feed meal formulation worldwide.

The Philippines is a net importer of soybean for food and feed requirements, mainly sourcing supplies from the United States.

Moody’s noted that easing of pandemic-related border restrictions and continued domestic reopening will drive the recovery in the services sector and boost consumption in the region.

“We expect output gaps to continue to close in a number of countries where service-sector rebounds are underway, particularly tourism-oriented economies such as Fiji and Thailand, and those that are midstream in their post-pandemic recoveries such as India, Malaysia and the Philippines,” it said.

It is not how you start, but how you finish that determines everything. In the most important matters of life and death, right and wrong, “almost” does not count! You have to finish well. If you let yourself be distracted or detoured, even just a little, it can end up destroying you! So don’t wait another minute! Won’t you ask Jesus to take full charge of your heart and daily way of living? He made it crystal clear that if you truly love Him, you will wholeheartedly live His way every day. Only then, with His help and power, can you be sure you will live well and finish well. Just think a minute…

your anti-virus software updated on your personal computer is essential in combatting threats and malicious activities that may compromise your information. It is also best to activate the 2-factor authentication process on your accounts as a standard measure, to complement the one-time-password (OTP) requirement to push through with banking transactions. For instance, OFBank account holders could receive OTPs via SMS or activate the OTP generator functionality of their mobile app.

3. Limit accessing your accounts using public computers or connections.

Using public devices and internet connections make your banking details at risk from cyber attackers. Always sign up with a secure internet connection while making payments online.

But if you must use one, make sure to not save your password and delete your downloaded files. Avoid risking your data by clearing the cache and history of the browser that you’ve used, and by emptying any files into the recycle bin.

maiden name, mobile/ telephone numbers, social security number, bank account number, and e-mail address. Never share these details with an unknown and unauthorized person over calls or texts. Banks generally employ similar Know-Your-Customer approaches. However, it is still best to verify the call before responding.

5. Check your transactions.

Always know your balance by regularly checking your transaction history details and statements. This ensures that no unauthorized transactions are compromising your account. The best way to avoid unauthorized transactions is with the help of OTPs, which OFBank has on default on its app.

With the everevolving Internet banking environment, it is essential to outsmart cybercriminals by learning ways to prevent online fraud. Your best shot comes when safeguarding your online transactions by keeping mindful behavior and choosing a safe and reliable digital bank.

and public investment will continue to support growth in 2023,” he said.

investment opportunities in the country’s renewable energy sector.

He also highlighted that the Marcos administration is rolling out reforms to attract investments in renewable energy.

4. Refrain from asking for help or divulging your personal information to anyone.

cultivation in support of a possible feed meal production venture in the province.

He said that Department of Agriculture (DA) officials are coming to the province to discuss the development of soybean production in the area.

The DA, which is headed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has been working to establish consolidated farms as part of the administration’s efforts to ensure food security in the country, Tamayo noted.

Part of the strategy to ensure food security is to make sure the availability of grain storage

Registration Law to take the lead in registering the SIM cards of their mobile subscribers.

Cañete said that reaching mobile phone users “is a lot of work” since registration of SIM cards is done online and that there are still several areas in the region with no internet access, particularly in communities in the hinterlands and even in the coastal areas.

“We have several areas with slow or no signal at all. We are coordinating with the telcos and other agencies so that they can put up mobile registrations,” he said.

He said telcos would provide temporary internet signal during the mobile registration.

Cañete expressed hopes that mobile phone users will have their SIM cards registered within 180 days from the commencement of the nationwide mandatory registration last December 27.

He also reminded the public to buy SIM cards from sellers authorized by the telcos.

Cañete said that one of the intentions of the law is to prevent scams on mobile phones and to allow enforcers to determine the persons behind the fraudulent activities.

Section 9 provides that any information and data obtained in the registration process “shall be treated as absolutely confidential” and shall not be disclosed to any person, except in the following instances: in compliance with a law obligating the telcos to disclose information in accordance with

With inflation expected to remain high, Cheo projects the BSP to make three consecutive 25 basis point increases this year, “pausing at 6.25 percent by Q2 (second quarter) 2023” and keeping this decision until at least the second half of 2024.

On the peso, Cheo forecasts the local currency to end this year at 56.5 to a US dollar given the peaking of the greenback’s strength. (PNA)

The Philippines targets renewable energy to have 35 percent share to the energy mix by 2030 and 50 percent by 2040.

This means the country would need 52,000 MW of renewable energy by 2040.

Apart from these renewable energy targets, there is also a potential of 178,000 MW of offshore wind potential in the country. (PNA)

One of the most common ways that lead to banking fraud is identity theft. In this case, the scammer gets a hold of someone’s personal information such as an address, mother's

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE

financial cyberspace remains,” Mr. Salceda said.

He said he expects the bank to reimburse any monetary losses customers may incur due to the glitch without any being made to sign waivers or quit claims.

“A resolution of this issue within the day should not preclude the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas from investigating the causes or potential weakness of the specific bank or the banking system as a whole,” Mr. Salceda said, adding the committee expects a report from the regulator on the matter.

BPI should also take steps to ensure the incident isn’t repeated, he said.

Bayan Muna Party-list Chairperson Neri J. Colmenares likewise said in a statement that the BSP should look into the incident to ensure the safety of the entire banking system.

“Banks must be held liable and compensate depositors for any damages suffered by account holders due to their inability to access their accounts,” Mr. Colmenares said.

“The BSP should seek an

reinforces the security that technology solutions provide.

Here are some measures that could help give you more peace of mind while doing digital banking transactions.

1. Make sure to only access secure platforms.

Consumers lodged before the BSP complaints involving a total of P2 billion worth of financial transactions from 2019 to 2021, some of which involved scams as well as hacking and phishing incidents.

Beware of phishing emails and text messages. Always type the complete web address on the web browser and never click links from random messages. Better if you bookmark the OFBank website or any other official banking website to ensure your safety before performing any financial transaction online.

2. Protect yourself from online attacks.

Installing and keeping

KNOW ALL MEN BY THES PRESENTS: That the late EPHRAIM FACTURA LANCERO, who died on December 31, 2020 in PFLUGERVILLE, TEXAS, 78660, died without any will or testament and without any outstanding debts in favor of any person or entity, that at the time of his death, left a certain real property, A PARCEL OF LAND with TCT No. T-44475, situated in the City of Cagayan de Oro, containing an area of SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY TWO (772) SQUARE METERS, more or less. Is the subject of EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE, made and entered into this 29th day of NOVEMBER 2021 by and among: VIRGINIA E. LANCERO, of legal age, widow, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 16304 Malden Dr, Pflugerville, TX 78660; JEFFREY EPHRAIM E. LANCERO, of legal age, married to Gretchen Lynn Lancero, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 5539 Celebration St., Sacramento, CA 95835; SHARON LEE E. LANCERO-CHESHIRE, of legal age, married to Neil Robert Cheshire, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 17409 Cameron Rd., Unit A, Pflugerville, TX 78660; Registered in the name of LUIS F. LANCERO, JR., married to Corazon Lai Lancero and residents of Long Beach, California, U.S.A.; ROLANDO F. LANCERO, married to Leticia Abuton and resident of Ozamiz City; LUZMIN L. CAAGBAY, married to Pastor Caagbay, and resident of Cagayan de Oro City; EPHRAIM F. LANCERO, married to Virginia Estabillo and resident of Tagum, Davao; PRECIOUSA L. ROA, married to Waldo A. Roa and resident of Cagayan de Oro. THAT said deceased co-owned the abovedescribed property together with his siblings, and owned one-fifth (1/5) of it; Filed by the heirs of EPHRAIM FACTURA LANCERO, As per Doc. No. 203; Page No. 42; Book No. VIII; Series of 2021 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. JESUS CARLO JOENIL A. QUIRAP.

BWM: Jan 11, 18 & 25, 2023

KNOW ALL MEN BY THES PRESENTS: That the late R OLANDO FACTURA LANCERO, who died on July 23, 1998 in Faith Hospital, Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental, died without any will or testament and without any outstanding debts in favor of any person or entity, that at the time of his death, left a certain real property, A PARCEL OF LAND with TCT No. T-44475, situated in the City of Cagayan de Oro, containing an area of SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY TWO (772) SQUARE METERS, more or less. Is the subject of EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE, made and entered into this 22nd day of DECEMBER 2021 by and among: ROLANDO ANTONINO ABUTON LANCERO, of legal age, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 3 Morningside Drive, Old Bridge, NJ 08857, United States of America; MARIA THERESE VERONICA ABUTON LANCEROALEGRES, of legal age, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 223 Elmwood Ave., Union, NJ 07083, United States of America; RONALDO DARIO MARTIN ABUTON LANCERO, of legal age, formerly a Filipino and now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America, and with residence and postal address at 159 Byrd St., Oceanside, NY 11572, United States of America; Registered in the name of LUIS F. LANCERO, JR., married to Corazon Lai Lancero and residents of Long Beach, California, U.S.A.; ROLANDO F. LANCERO, married to Leticia Abuton and resident of Ozamiz City; LUZMIN L. CAAGBAY, married to Pastor CAAGBAY, and resident of Cagayan de Oro City; EPHRAIM F. LANCERO, married to Virginia Estabillo and resident of Tagum, Davao; PRECIOUSA L. ROA, married to Waldo A. Roa and resident of Cagayan de Oro. THAT said deceased co-owned the abovedescribed property together with his siblings, and owned one-fifth (1/5) of it; Filed by the heirs of ROLANDO FACTURA LANCERO. As per Doc. No. 329; Page No. 67; Book No. VIII; Series of 2021 under the Notarial Registry of ATTY. JESUS CARLO JOENIL A. QUIRAP.

BWM: Jan 11, 18 & 25, 2023