Manila Standard - 2024 September 14 - Saturday

By Maricel V. Cruz

Guo’s ‘doppelganger’ finally surfaces at NBI

DOJ to file qualified human trafficking case vs. ex-mayor

By Pot Chavez and Macon Ramos-Araneta

HOW can dismissed Bamban

Mayor Alice Guo be in Bulacan to have a document notarized and in Singapore with her sister and business associate at the same time on August 14?

Through a body double, authorities suspected.

And at 2 p.m. yesterday, the alleged doppelganger, Cath

Sala-

SELF-PROCLAIMED “Appointed

Son of God” Apollo Quiboloy pled not guilty to charges of qualified human trafficking, his lawyer said on Friday. Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) legal counsel Israelito Torreon said the preacher and four co-accused entered the plea during their arraignment at the Pasig City Regional Trial Court branch 159 but refused to give further details. “He pled not guilty. We have no further statement because the case is already in court. We already pled not guilty,” he told reporters in Filipino after the proceedings.

zar, showed up at the National Bureau of Investigation, wearing a light green shirt, a face mask, and a pair of eyeglasses – a dead ringer of Guo, save for the ex-mayor’s now shorter black hair.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago earlier said Salazar was the one who did a drive-through at the office of lawyer Elmer Galicia to have her counter-affidavit notarized at around 7 p.m. of August 14.

Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, fled the country in early July, and was already in Singapore with her sister Shiela and business associate Cassandra Ong by the time her document was notarized in Bulacan.

After the dismissed mayor was arrested in Indonesia on Sept. 4, NBI

By Charles Dantes and Pot Chavez

ON his 67th birthday, President Marcos vowed that his administration

Slowing demand to trigger big time oil price rollback

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE

would continue introducing agricultural and healthcare reforms to ease the burden of common Filipinos. He called for greater synergy in the agriculture sector during the "Agri-Puhunan at Pantawid Program" launch in

By Maricel V. Cruz

VICE President Sara Duterte still has one chance to show up and defend their proposed 2025 budget at the House of Representatives, Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo said Friday. Although the committee on appropriations has approved cutting the budget of the Office of the Vice President from the proposed P2.1 billion to P733 million, this can be reversed during the

"I really want every farmer in the Philippines to feel the impact of this program, as well as all the initiatives we’re working on at the Department

LOVELY DAY. A cake from agrarian reform beneficiaries in Palayan City (upper right) and roses from students in Guimba, Nueva Ecija (inset) are among the many gifts received by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in his provincial sorties on his birthday. PCO

Guimba, Nueva Ecija.

ALICE GUO

CATH SALAZAR

Oil siphoning from sunken tanker done—PCG

By Vince Lopez

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced on Friday that 97.43% of the oil from the sunken motor tanker MT Terranova in Limay, Bataan, had been successfully recovered, avoiding an "environmental catastrophe."

However, 37,867 liters of its oil cargo were declared lost. The Philippine-flagged tanker went down with 1.4 million litres of industrial fuel oil on July 25 in rough seas churned by Typhoon Gaemi, killing

Guo‘s...

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assistant director Lito Magno flew to Jakarta as part of the contingent that brought her back to Manila.

It was there in Jakarta that Magno showed Guo a photo of a woman – later identified as Salazar – who looked very much like her.

“Is this you?” Magno asked, to which Guo shook her head and said: “She’s part of my staff.” Guo is facing qualified trafficking in persons charges that state prosecutors are set to file next week.

“The preliminary investigation ruled that there’s prima facie evidence for qualified human trafficking in persons against Mayor Guo. The information was established and we will file this information before the court next week,” Justice Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty said in a press conference with Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesperson Winston Casio and fiscal Benjamin Samson.

“We thank the prosecution panel who worked hard during the preliminary investigation. This case is very complicated. As you notice, the resolution is extremely thick and it has so many details,” the DOJ official added.

Ty explained that Guo’s culpability was determined based on a provision under the ‘Expanded Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012,’ which amended Republic Act 9208, stipulating that those who organized or directed persons to commit this criminal offense are just as liable.

“If it was established that you organized a business where acts of human trafficking were committed, you could be charged (of the crime), and that’s what happened to Mayor Alice Guo and her co-respondents,” he said.

Guo was linked to several businesses in Bamban, Tarlac that allegedly hosted illegal POGOs that reportedly recruited workers tasked to scam individuals, among other organized criminal activities.

Apart from Guo, the DOJ said it will file similar cases against former Technology Resource Center chief Dennis Cunanan and other Chinese incorporators, including Huang Zhiyang—the alleged “boss of all POGO bosses” in the Philippines.

The two graft charges filed against Guo, on the other hand, were transferred Friday from the Capas Regional Trial Court (RTC) to the Valenzuela RTC, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino confirmed.

Valenzuela RTC clerk of court Gemma Perino said the cases will be raffled next Thursday to determine which RTC branch will handle the proceedings.

Until a court is assigned to hear the cases, the Senate panel led by Senator Risa Hontiveros plans to request Guo’s appearance in an ongoing investigation on illegal POGO activities.

Supreme Court spokesperson Camille Ting said the transfer of Guo's case to Valenzuela was in accordance with a circular from the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA), which stipulates that cases involving local officials should be moved to the nearest RTC outside the official's jurisdiction.

“In this case, the nearest RTC of the nearest judicial region from Capas is in Valenzuela,” Ting said.

Senator Joel Villanueva, for his part, said he believes a former Chinese policeman, Duanren Wu, is the boss of all POGOs and not Huang. Wu, earlier identified as Ong’s godfather, was linked to Whirlwind Corp. which has been renting out the land where the raided POGO hub of Lucky South 99 was housed in Porac, Pampanga.

Villanueva said he also received information that Lucky South 99 president Zhang Jie was under Wu.

one crew member. The contracted salvor, Harbor Star, reported that a total of 1,415,954 liters of oil and 17,725 kilograms of solid oily waste were recovered from the sunken tanker.

"The salvor informed us that we have recovered 96 percent of the oil waste," Lieutenant Commander John Encina said in video comments shared with the press by the Philippine Coast Guard.

"What we're getting now is mostly water."

The remaining 37,867 liters, representing 2.57% of the total oil cargo, were lost due to various factors such as biodegradation, dissipation, absorption by sorbent booms, and unpumpable sludge left in the tanks. Government agencies involved in the undertaking decided at a meeting Thursday to announce on Friday the "conclusion of the syphoning operations", said Encina, who is supervising the effort.

One of the worst oil spills in Philip-

ENSURING CONSUMER ACCESS. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez assures farmers and irrigators of the steadfast commitment of the House of Representatives in supporting the administration's programs aimed at ensuring consumers’ access to affordable rice and strengthening the country’s food security. The Speaker made the assurance during the launching of Bagong Bayaning Magsasaka (BBM) Rice program at the NIA-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS) UPRIIS gymnasium in Cabanatuan City. Ver Noveno

Quiboloy... From A1

A heavily guarded Quiboloy wearing body armor and a Kevlar helmet arrived for his day in court.

When journalists asked him if he had a message to his followers, he muttered, “tatag lang, tatag lang (stay strong, stay strong).”

Quiboloy will remain detained at the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City pending action on his lawyer’s request that he be sub-

Slowing..

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Rodela Romero said the estimated rollback based on the 4-day trading in the Mean of Platts Singapore, is P0.90 to P1.20 per liter for gasoline, P1.30 to P1.60 per liter for diesel and P1.50 to P1.65 per liter for kerosene.

“Weakening global demand prospects and expectations of oil oversupply are the main factors for the said rollbacks,” Romero said.

She said the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) revised downwards its demand forecast for this year and 2025 as reflected in the September Oil Market Report.

“Likewise, China’s crude demand remains seasonally weak. On the supply side, Iraq's and Libya’s crude ex-

House...

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Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Quadcom leader and chairman of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, said Roque has refused to submit copies of his Statements of Assets and Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs), documents related to his family firm Biancham, a subsidiary in Benguet called PH2, and the deed of sale of a 1.8 hectare Paranaque property.

Roque had earlier promised to comply with the lawmakers’ request of producing vital documents which would prove that he has no interests tied to POGOs.

Barbers said Roque should be man enough to stand by his promise, that he would comply and submit the doc-

jected to a physical checkup by government doctors.

The KOJC founder’s lawyer petitioned the court that he, along with coaccused Ingrid Canada, be transferred to the Veterans Memorial Medical Center in Davao City due to their existing health problems.

However, RTC Branch 159 Judge Rainelda Estacio-Montesa ordered that Quiboloy’s co-accused; Cresente Canada, Jackielyn Roy and Sylvia Cemañes be detained at the Pasig City Jail. Meanwhile, of the five individuals who recently came forward to accuse

ports hit an 8-month high and have resumed loading, respectively,” Romero said.

This will be the second consecutive week of oil price rollback.

On Sept. 10, the oil companies implemented a decrease of P1.55 per liter for gasoline, P1.30 per liter for diesel and P1.40 per liter for kerosene.

Year-to-date, total adjustment of gasoline and diesel stands at a net increase of P5.85 per liter and P3.05 per liter, respectively, while kerosene has a total net decrease of P4.70 per liter.

Meanwhile, the DOE said the Supreme Court has affirmed the decision of the Court of Appeals to reverse and set aside the Writ of Preliminary Injunction previously issued by a regional trial court in favor of the Philippine Institute of Petroleum Inc., Isla LPG Corporation, PTT Philippines Corpo-

uments requested of him by the panel, instead of criticizing and dishing out his frustrations against the panel via various social media platforms.

"The problem with Mr. Harry Roque is that he has a lot to say outside of Quadcom. You come here (at Quadcom), speak and justify your refusal to submit documents face to face. Not on social media. Let's debate here. Also, please be man enough and stand by what you promised to deliver to the panel," Barbers said.

Barbers said that Roque's executive assistant, AR dela Serna, was man enough to admit before the Quadcom panel that they have a joint bank account in the amount of P3 million.

Aside from the issuance of an immigration lookout, Roque would be detained until the Quadcom hearings

Quiboloy of sexual abuse, two have agreed to tell the court about their ordeal.

“Out of the five, the two really decided to testify. The three are still thinking about it,” Davao City Police chief Colonel Hansel Marantan disclosed in an interview on Super Radyo DZBB.

“We cannot force them because by forcing them they might be reminded of Quiboloy's abuse,” he said in a mixture of Filipino and English.

Marantan said that the police will continue to reach out to the undecided victims with the help of experts who can deal with their psychological trauma.

ration, and Total Philippines Corporation relative to the unbundling of the oil prices.

The DOE said the injunction sought to enjoin the agency from implementing a circular requiring oil companies to submit detailed reports on the unbundled components of their pricing.

It said that the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act of 1998 expressly authorizes the DOE to require oil companies to provide detailed reports on petroleum product prices, enabling the DOE to fulfill its mandated duty to monitor international crude oil prices and track domestic price movements.

The DOE howeveer said that “while the ruling affirms the DOE's monitoring powers and functions and addresses the propriety of the injunction, the main petition remains pending before Branch 58 of the RTC of Makati."

terminate, or until he complies with the subpoena, according to Barbers.

Quadcom panel member Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro said the panel discovered that Roque’s assets had risen from P125,000 before 2016 to P125 million in 2018.

“If he (Roque) will not be able to prove the legal and valid source of this sudden increase in assets of his familyowned Biancham, then there is reasonable ground to believe that indeed he is connected with POGO operations, and this money possibly came from POGO operations,” said Luistro.

Roque was linked to the POGO controversy for accompanying and helping Cassandra Li Ong, an official of Whirlwind and Lucky South 99 gaming firm, to pay off arrears totaling US$500,000.

pine history occurred in February 2023, when a tanker carrying 800,000 litres of industrial fuel oil sank off the central island of Mindoro. Diesel fuel and thick oil from that vessel contaminated the waters and beaches along the coast of Oriental Mindoro province, devastating the fishing and tourism industries. The oil dispersed over hundreds of kilometres of waters famed for having some of the most diverse marine life in the world. With AFP

OVP...

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Quimbo said the appropriations panel members decided to significantly reduce the OVP's 2025 budget for three reasons: - the hefty amount the OVP spent on its annual lease of more than 10 satellite offices nationwide, which a lawmaker described as a "waste of money." - the lawmakers also reiterated their observation that many of OVP's programs were overlapping with other agencies, and thirdly, - the Commission on Audit's findings on the OVP's low budget utilization rate as well as their programs that had "implementation problems."

Quimbo said the panel decided to transfer the P1.29 billion to other agencies that already have established aid delivery systems in order to avoid wastage of public funds.

She also said that bharring last-minute hitches, the House of Representatives will approve on third and final reading the proposed P6.352-trillion 2025 national budget within the next two weeks on September 25.

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez earlier committed that the House would finally approve the budget before the third and last regular session of Congress goes on its first recess on September 27.

He said the proposed outlay would support the Agenda for Prosperity and Bagong Pilipinas programs of President Ferdinand Marcos.

Quimbo said the House would hold marathon sessions starting at 10 in the morning.

“We are confident that it will end on September 25. Every day we will start [at 10 AM] until we finish the scheduled agencies for that day,” Quimbo said.

PBBM’s...

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of Agriculture (DA) with all the support of the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and other financing institutions," the President said.

"My birthday wish for the entire agricultural system is to bring it all together so that the sector runs smoothly, improving the lives of every farmer, their families, and all Filipinos," he added. The program, spearheaded by the DA, DBP, and Planters Products Inc., extends financial assistance and resources to farmers to improve agricultural productivity.

"With the help of this program, every farmer will receive what's called an Interventions Monitoring Card or IMC—I already have one, which can be used to buy seeds, fertilizers, and other farming tools from accredited merchants," the President stated.

"No more worries about being ripped off on the price. No more concerns about running out of funds," he added.

The financial assistance totals P32,000, to be distributed in P8,000 monthly installments over four months. Additionally, the National Food Authority (NFA) will buy palay harvests at P21 per kilo, ensuring farmers can earn up to PHP 105,000 per hectare.

In addition to his focus on agriculture, Mr. Marcos also announced the "Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Sapat para sa Lahat" program, which aims to cover hospital expenses for patients in public Level 3 hospitals.

The Department of Health (DOH) is set to release P328 million to 22 tertiary hospitals nationwide.

Simultaneously, the chief executive launched the "Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Sapat para sa Lahat" program, providing P3.19 billion in aid and services nationwide through various agencies.

IN BRIEF

P50-b funding for pension of 4m indigent seniors

MORE than four million indigent senior citizens who are now getting the law-mandated higher monthly pension of P1,000 will continue to do so in 2025 as a nearly P50-billion outlay for this social protection program was tucked in the proposed national budget of the Marcos administration for next year.

Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte said another P3 billion was included in next year’s proposed General Appropriations Act (GAA) so the government can also give out, as provided by another law, the cash gift of P100,000 each to all Filipinos who become centenarians or reach the age of 100; and P10,000 apiece for the elderly who turns 80, 85, 90 or 95 years of age.

This developed as the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) informed Congress the allocation of P49.8 billion for the Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens (SPISC) and P3 billion for the cash gifts due octogenarians, nonagenarians and centenarians in the 2025 National Expenditure Program. Maricel V. Cruz

Taguig logs highest cervical cancer screening rates

THE city of Taguig was named by the Department of Health (DOH) as the top-performing local government unit for achieving the highest screening rates during the nationwide cervical cancer campaign.

Taguig was awarded first place for screening a total of 7,279 women aged 30-65 from January to July 2024, led by the City Health Office’s Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control Program.

City Health Officer Dr. Norena Osano and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control Program Medical Coordinator Dr. Marie Lovella Nofuente accepted the award.

In addition to the top prize, Taguig received a certificate of appreciation for its active participation in the nationwide cervical cancer screening services, contributing significantly to the country’s goal of eliminating cervical cancer. Joel E. Zurbano

NHA caravan reaches 1,800 Albay residents

OVER 1,800 Bicolano joined the National Housing Authority’s People’s Caravan: Serbisyong Dala ay Pag-asa in Daraga, Albay, The caravan, an initiative of NHA general manager Joeben Tai, offered a variety of comprehensive government services and programs to family beneficiaries at resettlement sites and neighboring communities.

Assistant general manager Alvin Feliciano led the opening ceremony to represent Tai.

Among those in attendance were NHA Region 5 office chief Rolando Ramos, NHA Albay/Catanduanes district manager Teodora Bandojo, chief of staff Joseph Yap on behalf of Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, Albay Gov. Edcel Greco Lagman and Daraga acting Mayor Gerry Raphael Jaucian Jr.

“This is being done by the NHA under the leadership of GM Tai to really bring government services closer to the people. Because apart from housing, we want to give them a new life,” Feliciano said. Rio N. Araja

Alleged big-time sex trafficker back in PH

AN ALLEGED big-time Filipino child sex trafficker who was earlier arrested in Dubai was brought back to Manila Thursday evening.

In a press briefing at NAIA, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos described Teddy Jay Mojeca Mejia as a “demon” who engaged in selling child sexual abuse and exploitation materials.

“It turns out that this demon is profiling the loner kids, the smart kids. Can you imagine, these are 9 years old, 10, 11 –very innocent victims,” Abalos said.

He said Mejia would offer P500 to potential victims who spend considerable time online in exchange for the child’s photo.

“After a child sends his or her photo, if the child does not agree to what he wants, he will scare his target. He will put a fake naked body to the child’s

face so the child will not resist,” Abalos said.

“Other victims were raped and the rape will be recorded and will be sold until the children become his slaves. This is how bad this man is,” he added. Mejia was arrested following a Red Notice issued by Interpol. He was also on the Red Notice list of the National Bureau of Investigation.

Abalos noted there should be a law to penalize the consumers of sexually explicit photos and videos involving minors.

He said Mejia would face charges of statutory rape, qualified trafficking of persons, and violations of Republic Act 11930 or the Anti Online Sexual Exploitation of Children and Anti Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act.

PROTEST CLASH.

Tension grips a protest rally by climate activists demanding a swift phaseout of coal on Recto Avenue in Manila on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024. Norman Cruz

Gambito orders fiscal prudence to maximize budget benefits

By Brenda Jocson

NUEVA Vizcaya Gov. Jose Gambito directed all provincial government departments to adopt stringent austerity measures to ensure that the benefits of public funds are maximized.

Gambito issued Executive Order No. in a bid to curtail unnecessary expenditures and enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of government programs and projects.

He emphasized the need for each department to scrutinize spending and eliminate costs that do not directly support the provincial government’s objectives and mission.

“We must ensure that our financial resources are managed wisely and directed towards initiatives that truly benefit our community,” the governor said.

The executive order called for the postponement of non-essential activities like private sector training, workshops, seminars, and conferences, especially if they cost the local government money.

Additionally, cultural and social events, including conventions, symposiums, and orientations that are not critical to government operations should be minimized.

“Expenditures that do not contribute to our core mission or can be deferred without compromising the quality of our services should be avoided,” Gambito said.

Provincial government employees were also instructed to adopt cost-saving practices in their daily operations, including the judicious use of office supplies, electricity, and other utilities, as well as other routine operating expenses.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14,

Customs broker convicted for smuggling of P6.4-b shabu

A MANILA Regional Trial Court convicted customs broker Mark Taguba II and three others in connection with the May 2017 smuggling of 602.279 kilograms of shabu worth P6.4 billion.

In an 88-page decision, Judge Alma Crispina Lacorte of Manila RTC Branch 21 sentenced Taguba and his co-accused to reclusion perpetua (20 to 40 years imprisonment) and ordered them to pay P50 million for each of the three complaints covered in the consolidated decision. Also found guilty for violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act were Eirene Mae Tatad, Fidel Dee and Dong Yi Shen, alias “Kenneth Dong.” Lacorte said the other accused in the case remained at-large and have yet to be arraigned.

They were identified as Teejay Marcellana, Chen Julong, Richard Tan (alias Richard Chen), Chen IMin, Jhu Ming Jyun, and Li Guang Fend (alias Manny Li).

The case involved the smuggling of the illegal drugs from China that were hidden in five metal cylinders at a Valenzuela City warehouse where they were taken from the Manila International Container Port (MICP) in Port Area.

Taguba owned Golden Strike Logistic, Inc., the trucking service which delivered container van MCLU6001881 carrying the illegal drugs from the MICP to the warehouse of Hong Fei Logistics, where Chen Julong is general manager. He also facilitated the release of the shipment from the Bureau of Customs and hired the services of Marcellana.

Meanwhile, Tatad owned EMT Trading, the importer/consignee of MCLU6001881. Upon inspection at the warehouse, the shipment showed to contain machine parts, groceries and five wooden crates.

The five wooden crates, which had a paper addressed to Fidel Dee, contained metal cylinders where the illegal drugs in plastic bags were hidden.

Lacorte said the importation was “accomplished with the indispensable participation of accused Dong, Taguba, Tatad, and Dee.”

DOH warns public against ‘imported’ Mpox vaccines

By Ralph Harvey Rirao

THE Department of Health on Friday warned the public against availing of supposedly “imported” Mpox vaccines that were not approved by the DOH and the Food and Drug Administration.

“It has come to the attention of the Department of Health that there may be organizations or individuals offering supposed Mpox vaccines ‘imported’ from abroad. The public is cautioned against availing such vaccines,” the DOH said in a social media post.

DOH stated that the said “imported” vaccine is not guaranteed safe nor effective as it does not have DOH-FDA safeguards.

The Health department advised the public to get Mpox vaccine doses in the country once it is legally available.

Earlier, the DOH clarified it is not recommending any particular sexual methodology to avoid contracting the virus as the number of active mpox cases rose to 14 in the country.

“The DOH does not endorse any methodology of sex. They are free to do whatever they want,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said.

“It came from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). When I read the original document, it is in the whole document that states what people should do if their partners are positive. So, it is not a general recommendation to the public,” Herbosa explained in a mix of English and Filipino.

MOON GODDESS. Mall-goers take photos of a Mid-Autumn Festival art installation which pays homage to the Moon Goddess Chang’e at the Lucky Chinatown mall in Binondo, Manila on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024. Norman Cruz

GOV. JOSE GAMBITO

ARRESTED. Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos (seated, center) presents to the media Teddy Jay Mojeca Mejia, a suspected big-time child sex trafficker who was earlier arrested in Dubai, at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Thursday evening.

THE Civil Service Commission (CSC) has released the list of passers in the Basic Competency on Local Treasury Examination (BCLTE), Fire Officer Examination (FOE), and Penology Officer Examination (POE) held simultaneously last June 2. CSC chairman Karlo Nograles announced that 8,493 successful examinees have been added to the roster of eligibles, comprising 938 passers for BCLTE, 5,566 for FOE, and 1,989 for the POE. The batting averages were 11.09 percent for BCLTE, 65.54 percent for FOE, and 23.43 percent for POE.

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 8,493 new eligibles from this batch of examinations. This eligibility opens doors for you to pursue relevant positions, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming you as fellow public servants dedicated to providing timely and high-quality service in your respective fields,” Nograles said.

Jaylie Christ Patlunag from Northern Mindanao topped the FOE with a rating of 95.34, while John Carlo Plaza from Southern Luzon led the POE with a rating of 93.25. For the BCLTE, Jose Bechaida from the Bicol Region, Renelyn Gamasan from Southern Tagalog, and Alyssa Faith Rivero from Western Visayas tied for first place with identical ratings of 93.77.

Completing the list of top passers for the FOE are Reymond Borbe (Bicol Region) with 94.79; Reynold Jay Bahunsa (Northern Mindanao) and Pantaleon Cadao (Central Visayas) with 93.42; Joerie Suboc (NCR), Sahlee lllut (Central Visayas), and Francis Christian Conde (Bicol Region) with 93.15; and Ralph Emil Zenarosa (Bicol Region), Tricia Mae Baleros (Southern Tagalog), and Joey Boy Moog (Southern Tagalog) with 92.88.

IN BRIEF CSC bares results of eligibility exams for 3 professions

Full delivery of 110k ACMs for ’25 polls by Nov.—Garcia

THE Department of Health (DOH) has convened a multi-agency meeting with a view to strengthening the country’s fight against the deadly tuberculosis.

The 9th Tuberculosis National Coordinating Committee (TB NCC) conference held last Sept. 9 laid down strategies to combat tuberculosis through collaborative initiatives and planning in a bid to enhanceTB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

The event brought together key partner agencies including the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), and representatives from the private sector, medical societies, and other stakeholders. Ralph Harvey Rirao

NAVOTAS City Rep. Toby Tiangco

thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for visiting the city and extending financial assistance to 3,682 local fishermen.

“We are deeply grateful that the President took time out of his busy schedule to visit Navotas and personally meet our fisherfolk-beneficiaries. His administration has provided extensive assistance to our residents and provided economic relief for thousands of Navoteños,” Tiangco said. He bared that the 3,682 fisherfolk beneficiaries were set to receive P5,000 in cash assistance, but this was even increased to P7,500 as announced by Marcos in his remarks.

“While Navotas was not directly affected by the oil spill incident in Bataan, our fisherfolk had to contend with low farmgate prices. The cash assistance given by the President will significantly help in addressing the daily needs of their families,” he added.

Prior to the President’s visit, Tiangco announced that 2,368 registered PWDs will receive assistance under the Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita (AKAP) Program in celebration of the President’s birthday. Maricel V. Cruz

Solon thanks Marcos for visiting Navotas Army’s 7th FAB gets graceful commander

THE Philippine Army’s 7th Field Artillery “Steel Rain” Battalion (FAB) has a graceful new commander, 1Lt. Daisy Jane Constantino, replacing Capt. Raymond Canada who served the unit for two years and two months. In his remarks at the change of command rite, 8th Infantry Division chief Lt. Col. Roy Nuez challenged Constantino to “uphold the legacy of leadership and dedication that has defined the Bravo “Guardian of Peace” Battery through administrative and operational proficiency. Constantino thanked the unit for the opportunity and trust placed in her. Rex Espiritu

By Joel E. Zurbano

MAKATI City Mayor Abigail Binay on Friday joined thousands of residents in celebrating the ‘Araw ng Pangulo’.

The event held at Makati Coliseum marked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s birthday, highlighted by the distribution of financial aid and the Kadiwa ng Pangulo market offerings.

The mayor extended her warmest wishes to the President, acknowledging his commitment and hard work.

“On this special day, we celebrate our President’s birthday and recognize his unwavering commitment to serving the nation. President Marcos continues to inspire us all, and we wish him better health, happiness, and success in all his endeavors for the country,” Binay said.

During the event, 2,130 Makati residents received P5,000-financial assistance through the AKAP (Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita) program, manifesting the government’s dedication to supporting

its citizens, especially those in need.

“This financial assistance is not just a mere payout; it represents the care and concern of our government for every Filipino, particularly the most vulnerable in our society,” the city chief executive said.

The Kadiwa ng Pangulo, a local market activity held at the Makati City Hall quadrangle, offered consumer goods at affordable prices, contributing further to community welfare and supporting local producers.

By Vito Barcelo

THE South Korean firm Miru Systems Inc. has vowed to complete by November the delivery of 110,000 automated counting machines (ACMs) to be used in the May 2025 midterm elections, ahead of the December deadline, Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman George Garcia said.

In a statement, the South Korean firm said the early completion of deliveries of 110,000 ACMs was meant to avoid delays in the preparations for the 2025 national and local polls.

“We’ve been very successful in supplying all the requirements on time. Our production is actually ahead of schedule,” said Miru vice president Ken Cho.

Nearly 30,000 ACMs have been delivered thus far, and most of the machines passed the tests conducted by the Comelec.

The Comelec started the hardware acceptance test of the ACMs last Sept 11. The poll body checked the hardware components of the vote counting machines, including their battery mode operation, screen, printer, camera, scanner, audio, USB ports, LED sensors, external keypad, network, and high definition multimedia interface (HDMI).

“For every batch of delivery, five percent of the total number of ACMs will undergo stress test…and that would be random, and if the machines will stand temperature and other external factors,” Garcia added

Sorsogon set to host PH edition of 2024 Worldwide Photo Walk

MAKATI MARKS PBBM’S BIRTHDAY. Makati residents led by Mayor Abigail Binay hold their own version of celebrating President Marcos’ birthday, and before the day is over, about 2,100 of them go home P5,000-richer through the government’s Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita (AKAP) program.

ROTARY CLUB HONORS ARMY RESERVIST. Leaders of the Rotary Club Makati West poses for posterity with Army

reservist Capt. Mel Hallar who was guest of honor and speaker during their luncheon meeting at a local hotel.

PHOTO ESSAY. Sorsogon City in the Bicol Region will host the Philippine edition of this year’s annual Photo Walk being spearheaded worldwide by Scott Kelby. The event is essentially a photo essay on local culture, landscapes, and the people’s way of life.

OPINION

Chasing Happy yet again

THE first real problem with being asked to write a regular newspaper column is choosing which photo to use and picking out a name that would appear on one’s box.

I had that dilemma in 2006 when I first started writing for this newspaper. I was thankful it was a step away from getting only older, established, predominantly male columnists.

I settled fast on a photo but agonized over the name. I had two other choices, “No Shrinking Violet” and “In Plain English.” I thought the former would convey that I would not shy away from any topic – my soft-spoken introversion was often mistaken for shyness, and the latter would express my disdain for complex words and too-long, showoffy sentences.

The then young-ish, domestic me eventually chose “Chasing Happy” because I thought it captured where I was at that point and where I was hoping to be. Never mind that some people said it sounded grammatically infirm. It wasn’t. Happy was a noun. And so I chased Happy for the next 10 years, writing pieces on various topics – government, governance, women, families, communities.

It was a mixed bag, really. And then I felt the need for change, first writing something entitled “Retiring the chase,” explaining why the pursuit of Happy seemed so pointless, and then started calling my column “Long Story Short.”

It was intended to be a tribute to clarity and brevity, but also an expression of my desire to be like LSS, a worm in one’s ear. I’m now using LSS somewhere else and, upon my return to the Standard’s opinion pages, which I edited and wrote for for 16 years, guess what? I’m chasing Happy yet again. I’ve done some growing up since ‘06. Today I return with a renewed commitment to continue chasing Happy, now fully aware that, catching it, pos-

sessing it, living with it every day is never going to happen. Nor it is the point.

It is Happy’s nature to be elusive. It could, from time to time, allow itself to be frozen. It comes at a moment when all you can do is close your eyes and savor the sensation of things being as they should be.

It could be the sight of the tops of trees, the setting sun, gentle rain that seems to wash away your cares and gives you better perspective, the knowledge that you’ve done a tiny thing that made a difference to someone, the company of persons who matter to you, the sight of a page you have filled with words, even a lazy morning when you can lounge around and not have to do anything.

It’s

all in the name

And all too soon, it is gone. It is Happy’s nature to be fleeting. When you sense it, prepare yourself for the moment it goes. Expecting it to stay is a recipe for heartbreak. Something is always going to shift. I won’t be writing anything grave or heavy on this weekend space. I will write about things that are familiar to me, that are important to me, and perhaps these will find resonance among others even if we are complete strangers. I will try to make sense of the things that confound me. It may at first blush appear self-indulgent, but the ultimate hope is that even a few readers could identify and relate with whatever it is I am saying. This is my Happy, and my hope is that it bears a semblance to yours. It’s a fleeting moment, but both the flash of experience and the lifelong pursuit are worth living the rest of our days. And so hello again.

We should have considered the Chinese proposal for a direct negotiation

THE country’s foreign experts, instead of simplifying our squabble with China in the South China Sea, complicated the issue.

First, they allowed countries outside of the geopolitical equation to form, create and join the expanded pact by calling for a new alliance, called the “Indo-Pacific,” to justify the participation of India, Canada, United Kingdom and isolate China.

An expanded Indo-Pacific alliance could metamorphose to the formation of a new pact similar to that of NATO that by then would justify the inclusion of new members to add teeth to the containment of China, the same strategy which the West employed to contain Russia’s alleged expansion into Ukraine.

If the Philippines accepted the offer of China to directly negotiate in the Scarborough Shoal issue, that would have instantly solved our problem in the South China Sea.

Our decision not to accept a direct negotiation, regretfully, was a fatal and complete mistake on our part, as most political analysts observed.

Second, we rejected the offer to negotiate for a more definitive boundary in the South China Sea, which the US and Spain agreed to without the Philippines made a party to the treaty.

The problem in the South China Sea is the Philippines, goaded to go to war against China, is not a party to the Treaty of Paris signed on Dec. 9,1898 that demarcated those boundaries.

Neither is China a signatory to the agreement, for obviously the People’s Republic of China has yet to exist as an independent political entity.

As part of our territory under the Treaty of Paris in 1898, Spain ceded the whole archipelago and nearby islands to the US.

Our refusal to engage in a direct negotiation with China over those contested islands in the Scarborough Shoal

exposed the truth about our motivations for the area.

Our hidden agenda maybe for our own security and economic interest, we allowed ourselves to be party to a proxy conflict with China, thereby justifying our need to strengthen our military alliance with the US.

It is our military alliance with the US that puts justification and semblance to the presence of a naval flotilla in the South China Sea.

We cannot now ask a third party to intervene because of the presence of its military bases, and of its alliance with the Philippines, a non-signatory to the Treaty of Paris.

Our decision not to accept a direct negotiation, regretfully, was a fatal and complete mistake on our part

Third, immediately after the offer to negotiate was rejected by the Philippines and soon after the President Bongbong Marcos Jr. was elected President, his pro-American ambassador to the US announced he would increase the number of US military bases in the Philippines to 10.

Effectively, the announcement made a complete turnaround of the Philippines as a neutral country in the South China Sea.

Fourth, the insistence by the US its presence in the South China Sea is to assure that freedom of navigation is observed by all countries.

Strictly, speaking, China divested the

Irresponsible reporting

THE subjects of the reported resignation this week on social media of Defense

Secretary Gilberto Teodoro from the Cabinet of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., while laughed off by both, is no laughing matter really.

We cannot understand how those who originated the report have been so reckless to go online without checking the tittle-tattle when it could have been easy to check with Malacanang or the Department of National Defense.

Obviously, it was never their goal to have the facts verified – because checking something that was never a fact would mean delay in getting ahead of others in this age of mis- and dis-information.

Whoever these people are, if they have respect for their manners, they displayed the abominable height of indiscretion and disrespect.

They took into consideration only that they would have hoarded more likes, more views, more shares and whatever, providing, their despicable speed notwithstanding, their reports would immediately become a trending topic.

And questions arise: When should

we publish stories about mis- and disinformation?

How much traffic should a piece of mis- and dis-information have before we address it? What is the “tipping point,” and how do we measure it?

Example, on one social media platform, do we check whether a hashtag made it to a country’s top 10 trending topics?

—“—

Some must be damned for splashing flagrant malfeasance in an otherwise noble calling of circulating information not dubious but easily verifiable

How do we think about the impact of mis- and dis-information, on social media platforms?

Do we care about how many people see the content? Or do we care about who sees the content?

Is the platform used important by virtue of the number of people who use it, or is it important because certain groups, like news organizations and politicians, use it?

The President, who was preparing for

THE Philippines is on the brink of a new economic era, with the creation of two new economic zones, but the road to prosperity is not without its challenges.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. claims to have steered the Philippine economy through turbulent times, with visionary leaders like Tereso Panga, Director General of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, leading the charge.

Panga, a stalwart in driving industrial development, has pushed forward initiatives that will shape the country’s future.

But with the proclamation of two new economic zones, a bold question looms: will these zones deliver the prosperity they promise, or do they hide challenges beneath their surface?

On Aug. 27, 2024, Marcos Jr. signed Proclamation 668 and 670, marking the establishment of two major economic zones—The Grid in Iloilo and the expansion of the LIMA Technology Center in Batangas.

These zones are more than just geographical expansions; they symbolize the government’s commitment to spurring job creation and attracting foreign investment in critical sectors like information technology and manufacturing.

Economic Powerhouses

The Grid, a sleek IT hub in Iloilo, is a 2,000-square-meter center with an initial investment of P193 million.

It is expected to become a vibrant nexus for three IT and business process management companies, bringing with them P10 million in investments and creating 250 jobs.

Meanwhile, the expansion of the LIMA Technology Center in Batangas, worth P856 million, adds 31.35 hectares of land to a zone already bustling with 169 locators and over P100 billion in investments.

These businesses generate an astounding 65,000 direct jobs. With the expansion set to be completed by early 2025, more growth is anticipated.

The development of a technology center in Iloilo reflects the Philippines’ growing strength in IT and BPM services.

Iloilo stands to become a critical node in the national economy, connecting the country to the global digital marketplace. LIMA, on the other hand, will further

US and he Philippines of its right to freedom of navigation. By having military bases in the archipelago, the US and the Philippines have practically lost all their rights to freedom of navigation.

Their bases in the archipelago make the two countries belligerent parties against China. This also explains why the passage of the US and those having

his milestone celebration, replied to legitimate media, literally laughing off the rumors, saying “That’s fake, fake, fake, fake, fake, fake, fake news.”

He said he and Teodoro, whom he appointed to the post to succeed him on June 5 last year, laughed over the rumors during a phone conversation earlier.

The President dismissed the rumor and emphasized that any changes in the Cabinet would be announced by Malacanang.

Which brings us to an important element in reporting, conveniently overlooked today in the 24/7 news cycle where the emphasis is on speed and volume with the convenience of the internet.

And the social media platforms that give these irresponsible so-called news carriers are not to be excused – ignoring in the process the reliability of the promulgated information.

Which points to one extremely bright bad and harmful motive by some people, correctly underlined by Malacanang and the DND, to sow chaos in government.

The DND itself called on the public to “be vigilant against misleading claims that aim to sow discord among the Filipino people.”

Some must have earned points and pesos in the process, but some posthaste be damned for splashing flagrant malfeasance in an otherwise noble calling of circulating information not dubious but easily verifiable.

Ecozones in Iloilo, Batangas to transform PH economy

entrench Batangas as an industrial powerhouse, attracting both local and foreign investors. Both ecozones enjoy tax incentives, which will make them magnets for new business ventures and foreign direct investments. Infrastructure improvements, reduced unemployment, and increased regional development are within reach.

Challenges

But as much as these ecozones signal prosperity, they also pose potential challenges. The most glaring concern is the integration of these zones with the local economies. Ecozones can sometimes operate like isolated islands of wealth, offering minimal spillover benefits to the communities surrounding them.

Will these zones deliver the prosperity they promise, or do they hide challenges beneath their surface?

Without careful planning, The Grid and LIMA may generate enclaves of progress that exacerbate regional disparities. Jobs created within the zones might not filter down to the broader population, leaving locals behind. Environmental sustainability also hangs in the balance. As much as PEZA emphasizes sustainable development, large-scale industrial and technological projects like the ones in LIMA and The Grid could have unforeseen environmental impacts. If green technologies and proper environmental assessments are not rigorously implemented, both ecozones could leave behind scars on the local ecosystems— pollution, deforestation, and disrupted wildlife habitats.

Moreover, the bureaucratic machinery that governs these ecozones could become a breeding ground for corruption.

Ecozone development, often laced with tax breaks and attractive incentives, has historically been vulnerable to inefficiency and graft, undermining the in-

existing alliance with the US and West cannot pass through the Strait of Taiwan. It is their collateral alliance with the US and the use of the Strait that could convert the area for US hegemonism.

The establishment of US military bases peripheral to the Strait of Taiwan negates whatever claim which the US, Philippines and its allies in the region over its right of freedom of navigation.

tegrity of the project and diverting funds away from where they are needed most. Recommendations

To fully capitalize on the opportunities presented by The Grid and LIMA, the Marcos administration must prioritize integration.

Regional and national policymakers need to collaborate with local governments to ensure that these ecozones uplift surrounding communities, not just the businesses that operate within their borders.

Special attention must be paid to the needs of local workers—training programs and employment pipelines that directly connect the ecozone’s job opportunities with the local population are essential.

Environmental considerations must be front and center.

PEZA should adopt and enforce rigorous environmental standards to mitigate the risks of deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss.

In an era where sustainability is no longer a luxury but a necessity, ecozones must live up to their name by incorporating renewable energy sources and green infrastructure.

Finally, the government must enact stricter anti-corruption measures in ecozone development.

Transparent regulatory frameworks and oversight committees could prevent inefficiency and ensure that the economic benefits of these zones flow to where they are most needed.

The future of The Grid and LIMA hangs in the balance.

They have the potential to usher in a new era of economic prosperity, but only if the challenges beneath their glossy surface are acknowledged and addressed.

These ecozones will either become pillars of national progress or symbols of missed opportunity.

Imagine a future where the Philippines is a beacon of economic growth, a model for sustainable development, and a leader in the global economy.

Or imagine a future where these ecozones become ghost towns, a testament to missed opportunities and a cautionary tale for future generations.

To insist on freedom of navigation while there exists a string of bases in the Strait is giving the US the right to recognize a de facto Monroe Doctrine in the Strait.

No doubt, China will never tolerate this arrangement. That will run counter to their position of One China policy and that Taiwan is just part of China. rpkapunan@gmail.com

Myanmar battles Yagi floods, landslides

IN BRIEF

Malaysia widens probe into ‘horror’ abuse

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian police expanded their probe Friday into a major Islamic business organization with links to a banned sect, after hundreds of children were rescued from alleged abuse at care homes believed to be run by the group.

Investigators stormed 20 charity shelters across two Malaysian states on Wednesday, arresting 171 suspects including Islamic teachers and caregivers, and bringing to safety 400 children and teens. In what is believed to be the worst such case to hit Malaysia in decades, police suspect the victims -- aged from one to 17 -- had been subjected to sexual and physical attacks.

They were also allegedly forced by the care home staff to abuse each other.

Investigators were “working towards” further raids and arrests as the probe on the organization called Global Ikhwan Services and Business continues, said police inspector-general Razarudin Husain at a press conference. AFP

Russian security chief Shoigu meets Kim

MOSCOW – The head of Russia’s Security Council Sergei Shoigu met North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday,

Biden, Starmer to discuss arms for Ukraine

WASHINGTON, DC - President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Keir

Starmer on Friday (Saturday Manila time) are expected to discuss whether to let Kyiv use long-range missiles against Russia, in the two allies’ likely last meeting before an election that could upend US policy on Ukraine.

Starmer’s visit comes with Kyiv pushing London and Washington to lift the restriction and a warning from President Vladimir Putin that giving Ukraine the green light would mean NATO was “at war” with Russia.

Harris, Trump march forward in key states

WASHINGTON, DC – US presidential candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris head to key battleground states on Friday, each seeking an edge in a race where they are running neck-andneck less than two months before voting day.

Trump, 78, heads to Nevada, where his campaign says he will focus on delivering a message on the economy -- a key issue in this election, with US inflation slowing but still higher than most consumers are used to.

Harris, 59, will be in perhaps the most crucial swing state, Pennsylvania, where earlier this week she debated Trump for the first time, landing several barbs that appeared to get under the Republican’s skin.

Voters will head to the polls on November 5, with both candidates in a dead heat according to most polls, including in the battleground states likely to decide the election under the United States’ electoral college system. AFP

In related developments, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun said Friday that “negotiation” was the only solution to conflicts such as the wars in Gaza and Ukraine as he addressed a global gathering of military officials in Beijing.

Top military representatives from Russia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Singapore, Iran and Germany are among more than 500 delegates in Beijing for the Xiangshan Forum, dubbed China’s answer to the annual Shangri-La meeting in Singapore.

The three-day forum comes as Beijing increasingly presents itself as a mediator

in global conflicts, including by sending envoys to the Middle East, brokering a temporary ceasefire in north Myanmar and last year, facilitating a historic rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran. On Ukraine and Israel-Palestine, China presents itself as a more neutral actor than the United States. British media reported that Biden, who is wary of provoking a nuclear conflict, was ready to let Ukraine deploy British and French missiles using US technology but not US-made missiles themselves. AFP

PYINMANA, Myanmar –Hundreds of villagers in Myanmar waded or swam through chin-high waters, fleeing severe floods around the remote capital Naypyidaw on Friday, while Vietnam began clearing up after deadly Typhoon Yagi.

People in parts of Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and Myanmar have been battling floods and landslides in the wake of Typhoon Yagi, which dumped a colossal deluge of rain when it hit the region last weekend.

The overall death toll across the four countries stands at 280, including 233 in Vietnam and 36 in Myanmar, but with many people missing it is expected to rise.

More than 50,000 people have been forced from their homes in Myanmar, piling further misery on the country hit by conflict since the military seized power in 2021.

One resident of Sin Thay village near Naypyidaw said he and his two children had spent the previous night sheltering in a tree to avoid the surging floodwaters.

“The water reached the village very suddenly at night, there was no time to run,” he told AFP.

“We didn’t get rescued until later. If they had come 30 minutes later, my family would be dead.”

Some villagers dragged makeshift rafts behind them carrying their possessions, while others led livestock to higher ground.

“This is the very first time I have experienced such a flood,” another man said near the village.

“We didn’t have time to prepare. It was a very scary experience.”

State media said flooding in the area around the capital had caused landslides and destroyed electricity towers, buildings, roads, bridges and houses.

In the Mandalay region, one group of villagers rode elephants to reach dry land, in footage posted on social media.

A junta spokesman has been approached for an updated death toll. AFP

South Korea military pulls CCTV cameras

BAGHDAD – The US embassy in Iraq on Friday blamed Iran-linked groups for an attack this week on a US diplomatic compound at Baghdad airport, warning it retained the right to self-defense. An explosion rocked the compound located within the perimeter of Baghdad International Airport late Tuesday night. A senior military official said it was caused by two Katyusha-type rockets. The US embassy in Baghdad said in a statement issued on Friday that the attack was “initiated by Iran-aligned militia groups which operate freely in Iraq.” It said there were no casualties at the facility, which is attached to the US embassy and provides logistical support and medical services, among other things. The attack occurred amid rising re-

gional tensions over the Gaza war and shortly ahead of a visit by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Iraq. In its statement, the US embassy said Iraq had “repeatedly committed to protect diplomatic missions” and US military personnel in the country “at the government of Iraq’s invitation.”

“We again call on the government of Iraq, as we have done on many occasions, to protect diplomatic and coalition partner personnel and facilities”, it added.

“We reiterate that we reserve the right to self-defence and to protect our personnel anywhere in the world.”

A senior military official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP on Wednesday that “two Katyushatype rockets” had caused the explosion. AFP

Knights whip Bombers to notch 1st win

LETRAN rode on the game-long brilliance of Jimboy Estrada and clutch triples by Deo Cuajao as it repulsed Jose Rizal University, 70-62, yesterday for its first win in NCAA Season 100 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

After Bombers skipper Joshua Guiab knotted the count at 58 with a little over four minutes to go, the sweet-shooting Cuajao swished a pair of cold-blooded threes while Estrada put on the finishing touches by scoring the Knights’ final six points.

It was the first triumph for the bald dribblers from Intramuros after stumbling to the San Sebastian Stags, 91-84, Sunday. Estrada went on to finish with 22 points, nine rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block in all-around performance that bode well for a Letran team that is out to reclaim the title it lost a year ago.

Jace Miller also contributed well by chipping in 16 points including a pair of booming treys on top of five assists, two boards and two steals for the Allen Ricardo mentored Knights.

The Bombers, who were led by Shawn Argente’s 18 points, dropped to 0-2.

Meanwhile, SSC-R and College of St. Benilde gun for their third straight win against defending champion San Beda and a dangerous Emilio Aguinaldo College at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., respectively, today.

Cool Smashers: A dynasty carved in resilience, poise

FOR many, it’s a dynasty. Some may call it destiny. Others insist it’s a masterclass in dominance. But to keen followers of Creamline, it’s a combination of all three – infused with a winning culture built on cohesion, camaraderie and fierce determination.

That’s what has powered the Cool Smashers through a staggering 10 championships in 13 Premier Volleyball League finals appearances.

In their latest feat, the Cool Smashers cemented their legacy by achieving a historic grand slam, an achievement that will forever be etched in PVL history. Their victory in the Invitational 2024 was not just about physical prowess – it was a testament to a mental fortitude that has been sharpened over years of championship battles.

In a winner-take-all match against a tenacious Cignal squad, Creamline found itself trailing 1-2 in sets – a situation where many teams would have crumbled. The Cool Smashers, however, did what they do best – stay composed under pressure.

The pivotal moment came in the fourth set when Creamline’s seemingly comfortable 10-6 lead began to evapo-

rate. With Cignal edging ahead at 19-18, the Cool Smashers showcased the calm they have cultivated through countless high-stakes matches. It was a display of poise rarely seen in the PVL, and the experience of being on the championship stage 13 times showed.

Key to this turnaround was the leadership of playmaker Kyle Negrito, whose steely determination epitomized Creamline’s collective grit. Her control of the tempo and her 25-excellent set performance not only helped bring the team back from the brink but also earned her the tournament’s Best Setter and Finals MVP honors.

“Coming into this conference, our mindset was to hold on to the advantage of being together for a long time,” said Negrito. “We respect each other’s roles, and that respect fuels our performance.”

The Cool Smashers’ victory wasn’t just about strategy – it was about each player stepping up when it mattered most. Erica

Staunton, a once-middling import who has since blossomed into a powerhouse, was key in sealing the fourth frame.

After Cignal leveled the score at 22, Staunton’s two clutch plays – a block on Ces Molina and a thunderous kill – catapulted Creamline to set point amid the deafening cheers at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Though Cignal pushed back, extending the set and rekindling its own hopes of clinching a breakthrough championship, Creamline’s trademark composure held firm. Staunton delivered once again, and with the help of Jema Galanza and Risa Sato, the Cool Smashers fended off a late Cignal surge, forcing a deciding Set 5.

And in a stretch where every point is magnified, Staunton and Bernadeth Pons carried the team on their backs, surging to a 7-4 lead. Though Cignal kept the match tight with a threepoint run, Staunton once again came through, delivering sharp-angled spikes that were too powerful to stop.

Her relentless attacks proved to be the final nail in Cignal’s coffin, particularly after a devastating play that saw Cignal’s MJ Perez sprawled on the court, unable to contain the momentum.

Villaroman, Slavin nail final Match Play slots; Sara wins

TRECE MARTIRES, Cavite – Zachary Villaroman and Francis Slavin emerged victorious from a contested battle for the final two spots in the ICTSI Junior PGT Match Championship, carding 78 and 83 to finish third and fourth, respectively, in the Luzon Series 7 at the Sherwood Hills Golf Club on Friday.

While Zeus Sara dominated the boys’ 16-18 age category with an expected victory, culminating in a commanding seven-leg Luzon series win, it was the duel for the last two qualifying spots that captured the spotlight.

Sara, whose four-day consistency left little room for doubt, wrapped up the event with a 292 total after shooting a final-round 72.

“Anything can happen in golf and that’s exactly what happened today (Friday). Patrick (Tambalque) shot a 3-under card and if I didn’t shoot even-par, the scores would have been

NESTLE MILO® marked a significant milestone in its mission to inspire young Filipinos to embrace sports and build their champion journeys with a contract renewal ceremony for top Filipino pole vaulter and Olympian athlete EJ Obiena. The partnership serves as a continuation of the brand’s dedication to nurturing future generations of champions, with the support of athletes who embody teamwork, grit, and discipline. To strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders in inspiring the youth, MILO®, together with Obiena,

closer,” said Sara, whose steady finished netted him a seven-stroke victory over Tambalque.

Despite Sara’s runaway performance, all eyes were on the intense contest between Villaroman, Slavin and Rafael Mañaol, battling for the remaining berths in the Match Play finals of the series organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. With absentee Mark Kobayashi and Patrick Tambalque already securing the top two positions due to superior ranking points, the competition for third and fourth was fierce.

Tambalque, who had already qualified for the finals through the multi-series format, opted to compete in the Luzon series. His impressive run, highlighted by two victories, including one at Mount Malarayat last week, solidified his claim on the No. 2 spot behind Kobayashi. The latter secured his position after winning at Luisita and consistently placing second

in three tournaments.

Tambalque closed out with an im pressive 69 but finished seven strokes behind the Davaoeño standout with a total of 299.

Villaroman, battling against nerves and erratic weather, produced a gutsy 78 to secure third place with a to tal of 324. Slavin, despite strug gling with an 83, finished with 330, enough to clinch the final qualifying spot in the finals, which are scheduled to take place from Oct. 1-4 at The Country Club in Laguna.

Mañaol, who had kept himself in the finals race with a runner-up finish last week, fell short in his bid after shooting a 93, ending up instead at sixth place with a 345 behind Se bastian Sajuela, who pooled a 343 after and 86.

UST Tigresses stay perfect at 6-0 in V-League

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas completed a perfect preliminary round in the 2024 V-League Collegiate Challenge Women’s Division by overcoming a strong challenge from Colegio de San Juan de Letran, taking a 25-15, 25-23, 25-27, 25-19 victory on Friday at the Paco Arena in Manila. With a flawless 6-0 record, UST heads into the semifinals with high spirits, ready to face the reigning champion, College of Saint Benilde.

A significant factor in their success has been the outstanding performance of Ange Poyos, the UAAP Season 86 Rookie of the Year.

In the fourth set, Poyos played a crucial role, lifting UST from a narrow 16-13 lead with two key spikes. Regine Jurado and Marga Altea then sealed the victory in this intense two-hour match. Poyos shared, “Marami kaming magandang experience dito sa mga games namin sa eliminations hanggang dito sa last game namin, which is nakatulong especially sa mga bata. Tulad nung kanina (sa third set), we’re up by four, ‘yung mga rookie error, nararamdaman nila. Sa mga pagkakamali na ‘yon, madadala nila na, kumbaga mamba mentality na hindi na dapat mangyari sa kanila ‘yon sa susunod.”

Nestle MILO, EJ Obiena strengthen partnership

students, parents, and teachers.

their champion journey through grassroots sports programs, sports clinics, and school partnerships. Following the contract renewal, Obiena visited the community of Oranbo Elementary School, where he met with over 500 students, parents, and teachers alike eager to meet the champion himself. The school visit served as a powerful reminder of the impact sports can have in shaping the lives of children, with Obiena’s story providing real-life inspiration for the students to kickstart their journeys in sports and life. The excitement was further fueled by the iconic MILO® truck, offering cups of MILO® to the students - a simple yet memorable symbol of the brand’s commitment to nourishing not just bodies, but also the dreams

Poyos finished the match with 17 points, all from attacks, and her 12 excellent receptions were pivotal in closing out the game against the Lady Knights.

Jurado also had a standout performance, once again leading as the top scorer with 18 points, including 14 attacks and four blocks. Bien Arasan contributed nine points and 18 digs to the Tigresses’ victory.

For Letran, which concluded the tournament with a 2-4 win-loss record, Verenice Colendra was a key player, scoring 18 points, most of which came in the latter three sets.

Gia Maquilang added 11 points off the bench, while Sheena Sarie contributed 10 points.

of young champions.

Obiena shared, “One of the reasons why I wanted to work with MILO® was the reach they have with kids, when you say sports, it automatically equates to MILO®. As much as I am who I am, I don’t have the same reach to help develop my sports in the country. This is why I need a partner who shares the same vision for such great initiatives for Filipino kids.

“EJ Obiena is a testament to how a MILO® ambassador should be, someone who not only excels in sports, but someone that the younger generation looks up to. As such, through EJ, we hope to motivate kids to pursue their passions with the same determination and heart,” shared Carlo Sampan, head of MILO® Sports.

Ernest John Obiena visited the community of Oranbo Elementary School, where he met with over

Letran’s Jimboy Estrada

BUDAPEST—International Master

Daniel Quizon provided the lone bright spot for the Philippines after he shellshocked Super Grandmaster Dimitrij Kollars in a stinging 3-1 defeat to Germany in Thursday night’s second round of the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad at the BOK Sports Hall here.

Quizon’s win—a 54-move result of a Sicilian duel—on top board was the silver lining to what was a bleak day for the Filipinos, whose women’s squad also stumbled in a stinging 3.5-.5 defeat to the powerhouse Americans.

It was a triumph that saw the 20-year-old World Cup veteran, whose trip is bankrolled by the Philippine Sports Commission through chair Richard Bachmann and commissioner Ed Hayco and National Chess Federation of the Philippines chief Butch Pichay, transformed what appeared like a losing position into what turned out as one of the biggest upsets of the round.

“Kumapit lang po ako at hindi nawalan ng pagasa,” said the soft-spoken Quizon, who donned the same lucky black and reversible nylon jacket that helped him tie for first in a super-strong meet in Abu Dhabi early this month.

Yulo gets P10-M bonus from ICTSI

CARLOS Yulo received another P10 million windfall, this time from the International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) for his gold medals in the vault and floor exercise at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Christian Martin Gonzalez, representing ICTSI chairman and CEO Enrique K. Razon, presented the bonus to Yulo at a simple ceremony at the Waterside inside Solaire in Pasay City.

“Thank you to ICTSI, Sir Ricky [Razon],” said Yulo, who returned from Paris on Thursday. “Thank you to POC president, Mayor Abraham Tolentino, and we hope they will continue supporting us up to the next Olympics and overseas competitions.”

Bronze medalists Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio were also rewarded as they received

P2 million each, while the non-medalists in the 22-athlete Team Philippines were given P200,000 each.

“Let us thank ICTSI, Mr. Enrique Razon, and Christian Gonzalez for helping our athletes with these cash rewards,” said Tolentino, who initiated ICTSI’s recognition of the Paris Olympians. “Our national athletes have performed their best in the greatest show on earth.”

Gonzalez, ICTSI executive vice president, emphasized the importance of supporting athletes and sports in the country.

“It’s crucial for us to support our athletes, it’s very important for our country,” Gonzalez said. “We wanted to do more because of all the hard work you’ve put in for the last eight or 12 years or your entire life.”

Yulo has now received at least P90 million in cash bonuses for his historic achievement in Paris.

“Just like the other incentives I received, it’s truly overwhelming and unexpected to receive another cash reward after they recognized our accomplishments, hard work in practices, and sacrifices for the longest time,” Yulo added.

Joining Yulo, Petecio and Villegas were rower Joanie Delgaco, boxers Eumir Felix Marcial and Carlo Paalam, lifters Vanessa Sarno and John Febuar Ceniza, and judoka Kiyomi Watanabe.

SAN Miguel Beer and Meralco’s preparations for their respective campaigns in the East Asia Super League are now in full swing less than a month before they opened the 2024-25 season at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Former NBA player Quincy Miller arrived in Manila last week and has already joined the Beermen in practice where he’ll likely teamed up with either Jordan Adams or Sheldon Mac in helping the team in its return bid in the regional cage league.

The Bolts are doing the same thing following the arrival of Ange Kouame, who will play as a naturalized player and partnered with resident import Allen Durham and DJ Kennedy, who once played for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Both San Miguel and Meralco will open the doubleheader tip-off on October 2 as they tangle against separate opponents. The Beermen, champion of the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, play in the 6 p.m. curtain raiser (local time) as they go head-to-head against Korea’s Suwon KT Sonicboom, runner up in the last Korean Basketball League finals. The second game at 8 p.m. will have the Bolts, reigning PBA Philippine Cup title holder, matching up against the Macau Black Bears, the champion of the Macau Basketball League. Tickets for the EASL Tip-Off, inclusive of both games are available for purchase now through all SM ticketing channels including https://smtickets. com/tickets/EASL2024.

San Miguel will be anchored by PBA legend June Mar Fajardo, a 10-time champion who has won Most Valuable Player award eight times. Fajardo and the Beermen will face off against a KT Sonicboom side that features Heo Hoon, a talented point guard known for his scoring prowess and playmaking ability. Heo averaged 15.1 points, 3.6 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game last KBL season.

Carlos Yulo (center) with (from left) Kiyomi Watanabe, Vanessa Sarno, John Febuar Ceniza, Aira Villegas, Christian Martin Gonzalez, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Nesthy Petecio, Joanie Delgaco, Eumir Felix Marcial and Carlo Paalam.

IM Daniel Quizon vs Super Grandmaster Dimitrij Kollars

BOOK FAIR. The 2024 Manila International Book Fair (MIBF), the country’s longest-running book fair, opens with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the SMX Convention Center Manila, where it will run from Sept. 11 to 15. This year’s fair, themed ‘Get Lit at MIBF!’, brings together book lovers, authors and industry leaders to celebrate literature and learning. Attending the ceremony are (from left) Tinette Capistrano, vice president of Primetrade Asia Inc.; Honey de Peralta, president of the Overseas Publishers Representatives’ Association of the Philippines (OPRAP); Sr. Reajoy San Luis, president of the Asian Catholic Communicators Inc. (ACCI); Sabrina Ongkiko; Andrea Pasion-Flores, president of the Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP); Rep. Toff de Venecia; Irene Lloren, president of Primetrade Asia; Charisse Tugade, executive director of the National Book Development Board (NBDB); Karina Bolasco; Toots Policarpio, executive director of Philippine Educational Publishers Association; Jovita de Jesus, president of the Philippine Booksellers Association of the Philippines (PBAI); and Dante Ang II, chairman of the NBDB.

BOP surplus in Q2

Current account deficit in Q2

$1.2 billion -$5.1 billion $105.2 billion

GIR as of end-June 2024

12 PH companies named among TIME magazine’s world’s best 1,000

By Jenniffer B. Austria

TWELVE Philippine companies, including three Sy family-owned organizations, made the list of the world’s 1,000 best companies compiled by Statista and TIME magazine.

This recognition highlights their outstanding performance in employee satisfaction, revenue growth and sustainability.

This makes the Philippines the top Southeast Asian country with the most companies on the list, surpassing Singapore with 11, Indonesia with five and Thailand and Malaysia with four each.

Ayala Corp. was the highestranked Philippine company at No. 274 with a score of 89.43, followed by Security Bank Corp. at No. 451 with 87.39 and San Miguel Corp. at No. 451 with 87.24.

SM Investments Corp. ranked No. 502, SM Prime Holdings No. 577, Jollibee Foods Corp. No. 649, Aboitiz Group No. 727, Robinsons Retail Holdings No. 775, China Bank PH No. 849, Alliance Global No. 863, PLDT Inc. No. 897, Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. No. 935 and Puregold Price Club No. 997.

The SM Group said the inclusion of SM Investments, SM Prime Holdings and China Bank on the list underscores the group’s focus and exceptional performance in employee satisfaction, revenue growth and sustainability.

“We are grateful to be part of the list of the world’s best companies as it reflects our group’s collective commitment to responsible and inclusive development,” said SM Investments president and chief executive Frederic DyBuncio.

“It also highlights our dedication to creating shared value for all stakeholders while ensuring the longterm sustainability of the enterprise.”

SM said it continues to drive socioeconomic growth, having created over 131,000 jobs and supported more than 100,000 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

PH balance of payments swings to $1.2-b surplus

By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Philippines balance of payments (BOP) position recorded a surplus of $1.2 billion in the second quarter of 2024, a turnaround from the $1.2-billion deficit reported in the same period of 2023, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Friday.

“The reversal to a BOP surplus in Q2 2024 was due to significantly higher net inflows posted in the financial account, notwithstanding the increase in the current account deficit,” the BSP said.

It said that from January to June, the BOP position also posted a surplus of $1.4 billion, lower than the $2.3-billion surplus recorded a year earlier. The BOP surplus in the first

half reflected mainly the sustained net inflows from the financial account.

It said that the current account deficit in the second quarter reached $5.1 billion, equivalent to -4.6 percent of the gross domestic product, higher by 25 percent than the $4.1-billion deficit or -3.9 percent of the GDP posted a year ago.

“This development was driven by the expansion in the trade in goods

gap and lower net receipts in trade in services. This was partly muted by higher net receipts in the primary and secondary income accounts,” the BSP said.

The capital account recorded net receipts of $18 million in the second quarter, up by 15.4 percent from the $15 million net receipts recorded a year earlier. This developed on account of the higher net receipts in the national government’s (NG) other capital transfers (at $17 million from $15 million).

The current account recorded a deficit of $7.1 billion (equivalent to -3.2 percent of the GDP) from January to June, lower by 17.8 percent than the $8.6-billion deficit (-4.1 percent of the GDP) in the same period last year.

FINANCE Secretary and Asian Development Bank (ADB) governor for the Philippines Ralph Recto welcomed the bank’s new country partnership strategy, which reflects its longstanding friendship and deep understanding of the country’s development needs.

“I thank the ADB, who has always been a true friend of the Philippines, for developing this very well-tailored country partnership strategy with us. This not only reflects the Bank’s commitment to the Philippines but is also a testament to their deep understanding of our development needs in order to achieve our ultimate goal of lifting 8 million more Filipinos out of poverty by the end of President Marcos

By Othel V. Campos

THE Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) expressed support for Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) chair Monalisa Dimalanta who faces a six-month preventive suspension by the Ombudsman. MAP said it is deeply concerned about the potential impact of the suspension on the energy sector, when it faces critical and urgent challenges affecting Filipinos.

“In past interactions with chair Dimalanta, we have been consistently impressed by her professionalism and clear dedication to improving the country’s energy sector. The Electric Power Industry Reform Act

Jr.’s term,” he said. “It was the Marcos, Jr. administration’s priorities that drove the ADB’s development assistance agenda for the Philippines. It is perfectly aligned with the goals laid out in the Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028,” Recto said.

The ceremonial turnover of the ADB’s Philippines country partnership strategy (CPS) for 2024 to 2029 was led by ADB president Masatsugu Asakawa and President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. on Sept. 12, 2024 at Malacañang.

The event was witnessed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Recto and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan.

suspension

[EPIRA] established the ERC as an independent, quasi-judicial, and regulatory body,” the group said in a statement.

MAP noted the ERC chair’s steadfast commitment to upholding EPIRA’s principles in pursuit of the ERC’s mission and the public interest.

The business group highlighted a notable achievement under Dimalanta’s leadership which was the promulgation of ERC Resolution 11 s. 2022. The reform encourages renewable energy consumers to become both energy producers and consumers and streamlines the permitting process, facilitating off-grid rural electrification with renewable energy.

INFRA TRACKING. Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman meets with National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan to discuss ways on improving the tracking system of infrastructure projects under the threeyear Rolling Infrastructure Program (TRIP) and the Agency Regional-National Investment Programs and Projects (ARNIPAPS) in the proposed and enacted national budgets on Sept. 12, 2024.

The ADB CPS defines the Bank’s medium-term development strategy and operational program for the Philippines for the years 2024 to 2029. It aims to steer the Philippines’ development path towards greater inclusion, climate resilience, and competitiveness, by strengthening human development; boosting economic competitiveness and quality infrastructure; and sustaining natural resources and ecosystems; and strengthening disaster resilience. It was developed through rigorous consultations with the NEDA as the lead implementing agency as well as the Department of Finance (DOF), other government agencies, the private sector and civil society.

PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) said Friday it is relaunching its nonstop flights between Mactan-Cebu and Osaka Kansai on Dec. 22, 2024. It said the strategic move represents a significant expansion of the airline’s network in Japan, the Philippines’ fourth-largest source of tourist visitors and home to over 300,000 overseas Filipinos.

The three weekly PAL flights provide direct access to Cebu and the central Philippines for tourists and business travelers from the western regions of Japan. By Feb. 26, 2025, the airline will add an extra weekly frequency to accommodate the growing number of travelers.

“We are delighted to make our comeback in the Cebu-Osaka market, just in time for the Christmas holiday season. Our direct flights from Mactan to Kansai will help us promote the tourism industry and local businesses in Cebu and the Visayas region, and deepen both bilateral relations and cultural ties with our Japanese counterparts,” Capt. Stanley Ng, PAL president and chief operating officer, said.

“Philippine Airlines looks forward to giving travelers from Western Japan the opportunity to experience the outstanding resorts and heritage experiences that Cebu is famous for, or to reunite with loved ones in the Philippines,” he said. Darwin G. Amojelar

Stock index stays above 7,000 level

PHILIPPINE stocks closed in the red Friday on last-minute profit-taking but stayed above the 7,000 level.

The bellwether Philippine Stock Exchange index ended the trading week at 7,022.85, down by 1.82 points, or 0.03 percent, from Thursday, while the broader all-shares index lost 3 points, or 0.08 percent, to settle at 3,788.63.

“Investors booked gains from the market’s rise yesterday. On a positive note, the market was able to hold its position above the 7,000 level,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said.

Despite the market’s slight decline, analysts said overall investor sentiment remained positive ahead of the US Federal Reserve’s policy meeting next week.

Investors expect the Fed to slash interest rates by 25 basis points. Value turnover was weak at P4.94 billion, below the year-to-date average of P5.03 billion.

Foreign investors remained net buyers, with net inflows reaching P188.92 million. Sectors ended mixed. Holding firms rose 1.19 percent, while mining and oil climbed 0.61 percent. Services dropped 1.42 percent, while property and financial declined by 0.37 percent and 0.25 percent, respectively.

Decliners edged advancers, 96 to 88. Monde Nissin Corp. was top index gainer, advancing by 2.21 percent to P9.72, while grocery chain Puregold Price Club Inc. was the main index laggard, declining by 2.85 percent to P29. Jenniffer B. Austria

Alternergy on track to reach 500-MW capacity by 2026

ALTERNERGY Holdings Corp. said Friday it is on track to meeting its 500-megawatt (MW) target capacity by 2026 with the start of the full construction of three new power projects with a combined capacity of 220 MW.

“The Tanay and Alabat Wind Power Projects are in full-swing construction now after we broke ground in May and June. Our Solana Solar Power Project has also issued the notice to proceed with the construction. These three projects combined with our Dupinga and Kiangan run-of-river hydro power projects that have been in construction would add 242 MW of capacity by end of 2025,” Alternergy president Gerry Magbanua said in a statement.

The five projects have the following capacities: Tanay, 128 MW, Alabat, 64 MW, Solana 28 MW, Dupinga, 4.6 MW and Kangan, 17.6 MW. The remaining 174 MW of wind and solar projects are expected to be completed by 2026. Alternergy has raised P20 billion in capital since the initial public offering (IPO) in March 2023 to fund these projects.

The company also raised P15.3 billion in the past couple of months.

The Tanay Wind Power Project secured up to P8 billion in project finance loan from the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and Security Banking Corp., while the Alabat Wind Power Project secured P5.3 billion in project finance facility from the Rizal Commercial Bank Corp. (RCBC) and another P2 billion in green corporate loan from BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO).

“The strong support from the banks and other financial institutions has paved the way to accelerate the development of these projects,” Magbanua said. Magbanua said the company is working to advance the development of new projects, in particular the 80MW Liberty aquavoltaic solar power project in Paniqui, Tarlac. Alena Mae S. Flores

Jollibee brings Milksha milk tea to US through franchising

By Jenniffer B. Austria

HOMEGROWN

Chowking network).

Milksha generated $96

in the USA,” JFC said.

Since JFC acquired controlling stake in Milksha brand, its store network grew by 24 percent to 327 outlets as of July 2024. As much as 93 percent of Milksha stores are franchised.

The stores are mostly located in Taiwan (305), with the rest in Hong Kong (14), Australia (6) and the United Kingdom (2).

Through another licensing agreement covering Philippines, Milksha branded products are also being sold in around 162 Chowking stores in the Philippines (26 percent of global

By Alena Mae S. Flores

MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco)

signed an agreement with A-FLOW for the construction of a 115-kV switching station that will cater to the power requirements of its ML1 data center in Biñan, Laguna as part of its commitment to supporting the advancement of the hyperscale industry.

A-FLOW is a joint venture between AyalaLand Logistics Holdings Corp. (ALLHC) and Singapore-headquartered data center developer and op-

erator FLOW Digital Infrastructure.

The switching station, set to be completed by December 2025, will also help improve system reliability, benefitting the data center and its nearby areas.

“The signing of the switching station agreement and deed of usufruct (SSADU) for dual feed from a 115kV substation, marks a step forward in our shared commitment to develop critical infrastructure with highest redundancy and resiliency in the country,” said A-FLOW president and

Vivant installs solar rooftop panels to bring electricity to Bukidnon school

VIVANT Energy Corp., through its retail electricity unit Corenergy, Inc., in partnership with Vivant Foundation (VFI), installed over P2.2 million worth of rooftop solar panels for the electrification of Gamot Integrated School in Sitio Gamot, Barangay Sta. Filomena in Quezon, Bukidnon. The project was implemented in collaboration with Bukidnon Power Corp. (BPC) and North Bukidnon Power Corp. (NBPC), as a part of Vivant Energy’s response to the Department of Education’s (DepEd) call for private sectors to aid the transition of the educational landscape in the country. VFI executive director Shem Jose Garcia said the project is a significant milestone as it marked the first moun-

tain school and the second Indigenous People (IP) community to benefit from the foundation’s solar energization program. The project is part of Project Liadlaw, one of VFI’s broader efforts to address the digital divide and provide essential services to off-grid communities.

Barangay Sta. Filomena chairman Ferdinand Silvestre said VFI’s solar project would contribute towards keeping more students inside classrooms.

“Before the installation of the solar panels from Vivant, it would take the whole day for our students to reach the town proper to access electricity. The situation back then was really challenging which led to students not pursuing education,” said Silvestre.

FLOW Digital Infrastructure chief executive Amandine Wang.

“It’s a true showcase to the market and customers of what we can do to make an impact by ensuring uninterrupted operation, mitigating risk of downtime, and enhancing reliability,” she said.

Meralco said it recognizes the steady growth of data centers in the country as more businesses require robust data management and digital services support.

“With hyperscale data centers considered one of the emerging industries in the country, Meralco and its sub-

sidiaries have been proactively preparing to meet the industry’s requirements and support its growth through our customized end-to-end energy+ solutions,” Meralco senior vice president and chief revenue officer Ferdinand Geluz said.

Meralco officials said the power distributor is committed to supporting the hyperscale industry by addressing its key requirements of high servicelevel agreements for redundancy and reliability, scalable capacity, safety, and renewable energy.

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said Friday it rolled out 256 new 5G sites in the first half of 2024, expanding its 5G network coverage across the country.

The latest development brings Globe’s 5G outdoor coverage in the National Capital Region (NCR) to 98.45 percent.

Meanwhile, key cities in Visayas and Mindanao now boast of a 5G outdoor coverage rate of 94.19 percent, underscoring its commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology to more people, no matter where they are. The 5G coverage expansion underscores Globe’s ongoing efforts to push the boundaries of digital connectivity and empower Filipinos with faster, more reliable internet services.

Globe registered over 7 million devices connected to Globe’s 5G network in June 2024, a clear indicator of the growing demand for highspeed mobile data and the company’s ability to meet that demand.

“Our aggressive 5G rollout across the country is a crucial part of our strategy to ensure that the Philippines is at the forefront of digital transformation,” said Joel Agustin, Globe senior vice president and head of service planning and engineering.

“We are proud to see how our investments are resulting in positive change, enabling our customers to enjoy seamless digital experiences wherever they are,” he said. Globe also made significant strides on the international front, having forged 5G roaming partnerships with 167 operators across 87 destinations.

JTI’S SUPPORT. Finance Secretary Ralph Recto (left) engages with senior officials of the Japan Tobacco International (JTI) Philippines in a meeting on Sept. 11, 2024 to discuss ways to combat illicit tobacco trade and improve regulation on the said product in the country. JTI Philippines general manager John Freda expressed his eagerness to collaborate with the Department of Finance (DOF) in formulating policies and regulations to curtail the illicit tobacco trade.

NLEX’s 3rd viaduct nears completion

By Darwin G. Amojelar

NLEX Corp. said Friday the construction of the new five-kilometer Candaba 3rd Viaduct between Pampanga and Bulacan provinces is on track for completion by November 2024.

NLEX president and general manager J. Luigi Bautista said the NLEX Candaba 3rd Viaduct project was 92-percent completed.

“The Candaba 3rd Viaduct project reflects our commitment to enhancing travel convenience and safety for motorists. We are thrilled to provide a safer and more efficient travel experience ahead of the holiday rush.. We are grateful to all our partners, both in the private and public sectors, for their commitment to and support for this project,” Bautista said.

The tollway company divided the project into three zones to ensure timely completion. Zone 1 or the Pulilan portion was completed in August, while zones 2 and 3, covering the Apalit area, are set to be finished by September and November, respectively.

The Candaba Viaduct has been a crucial link between Pulilan in Bulacan and Apalit in Pampanga for over 40 years, with its two existing bridges catering to northbound and southbound motorists.

The construction of the 3rd viaduct, positioned between the two existing bridges, is part of NLEX’s broader initiative to enhance this vital infrastructure’s expressway serviceability, safety, and reliability.

Other projects are lined up or underway in the province of Pampanga to improve travel experiences for expressway users and help decongest local roads, contributing to the province’s overall progress.

These include the NLEX Segment 3 widening project that expands the road capacity of NLEX San Fernando to SCTEX Spur in Mabalacat, Pampanga.

International Finance Corp. (IFC)

manager

Marc Arbogast delivers his remarks during a forum to promote decarbonization trends and opportunities within the Philippine steel industry. The Board of Investments (BOI),

BOI, IFC push decarbonization of PH steel industry

THE Board of Investments (BOI), in partnership with the International Finance Corp. (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, are promoting decarbonization trends and opportunities within the Philippine steel industry.

The event aimed to raise awareness and strengthen capacity-building efforts for both government and private sector stakeholders.

Rodolfo said decarbonization is a critical element in the country’s sustainability goals, with collaboration between the public and private sectors being key to success. He also highlighted the success of the BOI’s Green Lane initiative, which has actively supported renewable energy (RE) projects since its inception.

Rodolfo said the Philippines’ rapidly growing economy presents sig-

“Going green makes sense. The timing is right but the window is tight. We have to see a strong preference for green products,” said Trade Undersecretary and BOI managing head Ceferino Rodolfo.

Apl.de.Ap Foundation, ADB establish Electric Vehicle Center of

By Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Apl.de.Ap Foundation International (APLFI), in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is solidifying its commitment to boosting the electrification of the transport sector with the establishment of the first Electric Vehicle (EV) Center of Excellence to conduct a study on EV and electrification.

“Our vision for the EV Center of Excellence extends beyond merely introducing new technology; it’s about empowering people,” said Apl.de.Ap, founder of APLFI

NEA directs ECs to insure critical assets vs. calamities

THE National Electrification Administration (NEA) asked electric cooperatives (ECs) to be ready in the event of serious calamities by obtaining insurance policies for their critical assets as the Philippines continues to weather storms, earthquakes and other environmental hazards.

NEA deputy administrator for technical services Ernesto Silvano Jr., in a memorandum dated Sept. 10, 2024, sought information from all ECs under its watch regarding insurance coverage for their technical and operational facilities.

“In the aftermath of a disaster/calamity, the cost of rehabilitation/restoration of the damaged assets can be substantial. Insurance helps ensure that assets are quickly restored or replaced, reducing downtime and maintaining operational efficiency,” Silvano wrote in the memo.

“This is particularly important for electric cooperatives (ECs) , where uninterrupted service is critical for community reliability,” he said.

The NEA official underscored the importance of having vital equipment protected to ensure uninterrupted electricity services for the ECs’ member-consumer-owners in their respective coverage areas.

The state-owned corporation said critical power distribution assets include generation and sub-transmission facilities, distribution infrastructure (such as substation, feeder units, protection equipment, transformers, etc.), buildings and facilities, warehouses, vehicles, IT equipment and related properties.

The NEA said the order is in line with the six pillars of the resiliency compliance plan (RCP) based on a circular released by the Department of Energy in 2022 pertaining to “Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance.” Alena Mae S. Flores

and a member of the Black Eyed Peas.

“By upskilling our existing workforce and creating new educational opportunities, we can ensure that the benefits of electrification reach every corner of the Philippines—creating jobs, improving public health, and driving sustainable economic growth,” he said.

The comprehensive study, slated for completion by the fourth quarter of this year, will evaluate the Philippines’ readiness for electrification, focusing on key areas such as the capabilities of the technical

workforce, the adequacy of the current grid, and the feasibility of expanding charging infrastructure nationwide.

It will include an assessment of existing laws and regulations, identifying any gaps or the need for new legislation to support a robust and sustainable EV ecosystem.

A core objective of the center is to ensure that the country does not merely introduce new vehicles, but creates a sustainable ecosystem that includes a skilled workforce, resilient infrastructure, and informed decision-

Excellence

making.

The center will be at the heart of building the ecosystem, ensuring that the transition to electric vehicles is comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable.

“This center is not just a hub for innovation; it is a catalyst for nationwide transformation,” said James Leather, ADB chief of the transport sector group.

“By equipping the Philippines with the tools and knowledge needed for electrification, we are laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more resilient transport sector,” he said.

MANILA Water Co. Inc. encourages the public to enjoy the exciting outdoor activities that La Mesa Ecopark has to offer.

La Mesa Ecopark in Novaliches, Quezon City is considered one of the last lungs of Metro Manila because of its lush green forest that helps produce oxygen and aid in improving the city’s air quality, as well as preserve water source.

The ecopark has a capacity to receive 1,000 guests daily. Entrance is free for Quezon City residents (with government IDs or QCitizen cards), while non-Quezon City residents will be charged a minimal fee of P20. Currently in Phase 1 of development, the ecopark features exciting

outdoor activities such as wall climbing, rappelling, paintball games, and archery tag.

The park is also open for company teambuilding seminars, which should be precoordinated with the LME Management for safety and ease of facility use.

The park also offers a guided ecotour and scheduled bird-watching activities. There is a viewing deck pavilion and a food park to hang out with friends and family. Because of its scenic views, the park has also been a venue for prenuptial photo and commercial video shoots. Photo and video productions also require prior coordination with the LME Management.

FLOOD MANAGEMENT. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), leads the development of comprehensive flood risk management master plans for three major and principal river basins in the Philippines. DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain, incharge of DPWH infrastructure flagship projects (seated,

nificant opportunities, particularly in sectors such as electric vehicles (EV), smart high-tech light manufacturing, semiconductor assembly and testing, green metals, high-tech agriculture, renewable energy and data center/ telecommunications infrastructure. The BOI is on track to securing a record amount of investment pledges for 2024, with the RE sector leading the way. The sector is playing a transformative role in addressing competitive challenges, such as those related to power supply.

2 senators support BCDA law extension

By Othel V. Campos

SENATORS Alan Peter Cayetano and Mark Villar support the amendments to the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992, emphasizing the significant economic contributions of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to the country. Cayetano sponsored Senate Bill No. 2647 on Sept. 11, 2024, aiming to strengthen the BCDA’s successful development of economic zones across the country.

“If we develop [the] Bulacan and Clark economic zones correctly, it could really be a twin engine of development in our country, and it could really pull the massive urbanization out of Metro Manila and spur development in Central Luzon,” Cayetano said.

Villar, who is the chair of the Senate committee on government corporations and public enterprises, also highlighted the BCDA’s substantial contributions to the national treasury, the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program and job creation.

The proposed amendments aim to extend the BCDA’s corporate term for another 50 years and declare a portion of land in each BCDA economic zone as alienable and disposable, facilitating residential and affordable housing development.

The bill also proposes to increase the authorized capital stock of the BCDA and grant it the authority to issue bonds, which would provide the agency with additional resources to fund its development projects.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2024

extrastory2000@gmail.com

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor

ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor

GCash vows to support PWDs on financial wellness

GCASH, a finance app, teamed up with WOW LEAP Inc. (Women with Disabilities Leap to Social and Economic Progress) to advance the financial wellness journeys of persons with disabilities.

GCash and WOW LEAP will work to emphasize “Kahit Sino, Kaya,” a major campaign that celebrates inspiring individuals fostering a more inclusive Philippines.

WOW LEAP is an organization started and managed by women with disabilities, whose main objectives include advocating access, gender equality and disability and social inclusion—goals that align closely with GCash’s vision of Finance For All.

The partnership involves sponsorship programs, fundraising activities and capacity-building workshops to empower persons with disabilities and enable them to thrive in a more accessible financial landscape.

“Inclusion is one of our core values, and GCash is at the forefront of financial inclusion,” said Neil Trinidad, chief marketing officer of GCash.

“The persons with disabilities sector is among the most underserved. Of the 1.9 million disability cases in the Philippines, 673,000 have physical disabilities. Only 11 percent of persons with disabilities are employed, and only 9.6 percent are banked,” said Trinidad.

PLDT, CICC team up to protect telco infra

By Darwin G. Amojelar

PLDT Group teamed up with the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to safeguard technology and telecommunications infrastructure across the country and help ensure that Filipinos have unhampered access to much-needed connectivity.

“PLDT - Smart and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) led the formation of PROTECTA Pilipinas alliance for the mutual protection of tech and tel-

co infrastructure, to help ensure that connectivity services will always be available to our countrymen, given their critical role in emergency response, national security, economic

DOT achieves ISO certification for quality management standards

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Tour-

ism (DOT) said Friday it again achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification, marking seven years of consistent adherence to quality management standards.

DOT Secretary Christina Frasco underscored the agency’s dedication to excellence in government service, saying the certification reflects their commitment to exceeding expectations in delivering tourism performance for the country.

“This globally-recognized benchmark ensures that our processes consistently meet customer and regulatory requirements,” she said.

The DOT first obtained ISO certification in 2018 and has consistently passed subsequent surveillance and re-certification audits, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining high service standards.

The recent audit, conducted by PT AJA Sertifikasi IndonesiaPhilippine Representative Office, assessed the DOT’s compliance with ISO 9001:2015 standards in areas such as accreditation, enforcement and training.

The DOT also received an “unmodified opinion” from the Commission on Audit (COA) for its fiscal year 2023 financial statements.

Frasco said the DOT’s financial reporting is accurate and adheres to international standards of supreme audit institutions.

growth and daily life,” Roy Ibay, convenor of Protecta Pilipinas and vice president and head of regulatory at Smart Communications said.

“We are grateful to all the signatories to this MOU for agreeing to form the alliance, and for their support in our broader goal of ensuring the unhampered delivery of connectivity and safeguarding technology and telecommunication assets since they are considered critical infrastructure for nation building,” said Ibay, who also serves as the private sector board representative to the CICC.

CICC executive director Alexander Ramos said this endeavor is proof that

the government cares for the industry.

“These efforts will ensure that our critical infrastructure for communications are given proper attention in terms of security and integrity. I thank the industry for trusting the government that we can work together in ensuring continued service for everyone,” Ramos said.

PROTECTA Pilipinas lists as its objectives the need to promote resilience, or to identify and advocate for measures that enhance the resilience of telecom networks, including redundancy, disaster recovery plans, and cybersecurity protocols to prevent disruptions.

JICA hosts business matching event to link 17 Japanese firms, PH partners

Ironsmith Co., Ltd. and Spectee Inc.

GSIS shuts down infected computer

GOVERNMENT Service Insurance System (GSIS) said it received a notice from its security partner on Thursday night that a local threat actor had compromised the administrator account of one of its computers.

“The affected computer has been taken offline as we actively investigate the incident to assess the extent of the breach. The affected computer is a test computer and contains dummy data used for the tests. GSIS is now validating the claims of the intruder in order to ensure full compliance with the requirements of the Data Privacy Act,” GSIS

4

THE Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) hosted on Friday a business matching event to connect 17 Japanese companies and potential partners in the Philippines.

JICA Philippines chief representative Sakamoto Takema emphasized the significance of the partnerships in sustaining economic growth and improving the quality of life in the Philippines through jobs generation.

“I am confident that the business partnerships will significantly contribute to the deeper ‘heart-to-heart ties’ between Japan and the Philippines. All of you can be powerful promoters to elevate our close partnership to even new heights,” he said.

Japanese firms seeking partnerships include agricultural companies E-supportlink Ltd., Kuwanosato Inc. and Takara Inc., while companies offering technology on disaster risk reduction include Aster Co. Ltd., Lida

In the environmental sector, Japanese companies like Advantec Philippines Inc., BEMAC Electric Transportation PH Incorporated, FujiClean Co. Ltd., Kanazawa Engineering Systems Inc., Nihon Genryo Co. Ltd.; Nippon Steel Engineering Co. Ltd.; Phil Japan Worldwide Management Services Inc.; SM GUUN Environmental Company Inc.; Takaoka Toko Co., Ltd.; and TAU Corp. presented a diverse range

PROCTER & Gamble (P&G) Philippines said its homecare brand director Ian Phillip Villaruel was honored as one of the 2024 ‘Top Filipino Youth Marketers’ at the 19th Mansmith Young Market Masters Awards (YMMA).

Villaruel’s exceptional brand building and marketing management for P&G’s dishwashing liquid brand Joy has been recognized with the accolade. The Mansmith YMMA is an esteemed recognition program in the Philippines organized by Mansmith and Fielders Inc. The program recognizes the excellence of young marketers and entrepreneurs 35 years old and below in the areas of brand and marketing management, business de-

of cutting-edge solutions on water and wastewater treatment systems, renewable energy technologies, and advanced plant engineering services.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. (SMBC) offered a range of financial solutions designed to facilitate collaboration on unique agricultural products, disaster management tools, and innovative environmental technologies. Othel V. Campos

velopment, and entrepreneurship. As a brand director, Villaruel leads in promoting Joy’s superiority in cleaning dishes. Joy is the market leader in the dish care category known for its memorable slogan “Isang patak, isang katutak,” which emphasizes its superiority in grease cleaning.

Villaruel’s leadership extends to organizational development in P&G Philippines. He plays a crucial role in supporting the capability arm of P&G’s brand organization, which is responsible for devising plans to equip the Brand Marketing Function with the necessary marketing and leadership skills. He has led a series of training for new P&G Brand Managers by localizing the company’s global marketing trainings.

OUTSTANDING FILIPINOS. The 2024 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos receive honors at the

Banc Session Hall of the Supreme Court in Padre Faura, Ermita, Manila on Sept. 9. This marks the first time in the 39-

year history of the Metrobank Foundation (MBFI) that its awardees are being recognized by the country’s highest court. The event was attended by members of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo.

FRAUD CASE. Tala Philippines, represented by site operations director Paulo Dalupan (center) and senior legal counsel Paolo Sumilong (right), files a case under the new Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act together with legal counsel Alexandra Aure (left) at the National Bureau of Investigation to initiate criminal action against 70 fraudsters identified to have targeted customers.

AS the highly anticipated launch of Apple’s iPhone 16 approaches, the tech world is buzzing with speculation. But here’s a twist: recent leaks indicate that Apple might not be making as many changes as we expected. Reports suggest that the iPhone 16 Pro Max is likely to retain the same 8.3mm thickness as its predecessor. While this means the phone will still house a larger battery and advanced components, it seems Apple is opting for a design that remains familiar rather than revolutionary.

Despite its impressively slim 7.8mm profile, the soon-to-be-launched Infinix phone boasts of a tri-camera setup, and an IP54-rated build.

Just when we thought the smartphone race couldn’t get any more interesting, Infinix swoops in with a game-changing proposition. Founded in 2013, this up-and-coming Android brand has been making a name for itself by focusing on the needs of younger consumers. Now, Infinix is poised to steal the spotlight with a potential breakthrough: a smartphone that could become the slimmest in the world. Early leaks suggest that this new device might come in at less than 6mm thick—an astonishing feat in today’s market!

Leaked Images: What We’re Seeing Recent leaks offer a tantalizing preview of what Infinix has in store. A leaked image from an Infinix employee showcas-

es a device with a remarkably slim profile—almost too thin to believe. The images also reveal a tri-camera setup and an even sleeker design. It can also be seen with a 3D curved display, a feature often found in flagship devices.

Despite its impressively slim 7.8mm profile, it boasts a tri-camera setup, and an IP54-rated build. This device has demonstrated that Infinix can deliver a slim design without compromising on essential features. If these leaks are accurate, Infinix might be on the brink of a major design breakthrough while maintaining functionality.

Slimness vs. Functionality: The Balancing Act

Creating an ultra-slim phone is no easy task. While Apple’s recent models have grown thicker to accommodate more advanced features and larger batteries, Infinix’s approach might be a game-changer. Achiev-

ing a thickness of under 6mm while still packing in high-performance components would be a monumental achievement. It’s a testament to how far smartphone design has come and a glimpse into what the future might hold. The burning question now is: how did Infinix manage to achieve this impressive feat, if these leaks turn out to be true?

Android vs. Apple:

The Innovation Battle

The rivalry between Android and Apple has always driven innovation, and this latest development is no exception. From foldable screens to rapid charging and advanced camera systems, Android brands have consistently pushed the boundaries. Infinix’s potential breakthrough with the world’s thinnest phone could set a new standard for what’s possible in mobile design, and it’s certainly something to keep an eye on.

Smart bags gold at Panata Awards for awe-inspiring MOA Ball

MOBILE services provider Smart Communications, Inc. took home the lone Gold citation for Single Medium —Out of Home (OOH) Marketing Communications Channels category at the 2024 Panata Brand Effectiveness Awards held last September 6 at Seda Hotel, Bonifacio Global City.

Organized by the Philippine Association of National Advertisers, the annual awards is a grand celebration of excellence and effectiveness in advertising in the country.

Smart, an official global partner of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, hosted the historic basketball tournament and turned the Mall of Asia (MOA) Ball into a massive basketball with a hoop OOH to celebrate the tournament and the Filipinos’ love of the game. With the help of Metropolis Evolving Media Solutions Corp. & Up Rising Corporation, Smart was able to light up the MOA ball, considered one of the most awe-inspiring and largerthan-life basketball tributes in the country, and perhaps the world.

“We share this citation with the teams that worked on this project and our part-

THE IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) has formed a strategic partnership with Paywatch, Southeast Asia’s leading Earned-Wage Access (EWA) service provider, to address the ongoing challenges of talent attraction and retention in the information technology and business process management (IT-BPM) sector.

The partnership between IBPAP and Paywatch is designed to enhance the appeal of the IT-BPM industry to prospective employees by leveraging financial wellness initiatives. By implementing EWA, also known as on-demand pay, the partnership aims to empower employees with access to a portion of their earned wages before payday, thereby improving financial management and reducing reliance on loans or salary advances. Partnered with global banks and the United Nations Capital Development

ner agencies for making the MOA Ball basketball tribute part of the country’s basketball history and one memorable reminder for Filipinos to be truly proud of as we successfully hosted the climax of

Fund (UNCDF) to promote financial inclusion, Paywatch’s commitment to providing fair financial access has earned it global recognition. Paywatch’s EWA is a debt-free service that allows employees to receive their earned but unpaid salaries on demand, anytime and anywhere. This service has been proven to reduce employees’ dependence on loans, charging only a low transaction fee without any interest or hidden charges. EWA is already an established service in the US and UK, and Paywatch has pioneered its deployment across four Asian countries. Through providing EWA, IBPAP and Paywatch are addressing key challenges in talent management, making the IT-BPM sector more attractive and supportive for its workforce. “The ITBPM sector in the Philippines holds immense potential, yet attracting and retaining top talent remains a challenge. Addressing employees’ financial

Smart recently won the lone Gold citation for Single Medium – Out of Home (OOH) Marketing Communications Channels category at the 2024 Panata Brand E ectiveness Awards. Accepting the award are Smart representatives Lloyd R. Manaloto (right) and Lorenzo E. Torres.

the FIBA World Cup 2023,” said Kristine A. Go, Senior Vice President for Wireless Consumer Business at Smart.

“Smart’s MOA Ball OOH really took our FIBA World Cup 2023 host-

ing to a whole new level for basketball fans and FIBA delegates from all over the world,” added Lloyd Manaloto, First Vice President at Smart.

Aside from the Panata gold award, the Smart MOA Ball execution also earned prestigious recognitions from local and international award-giving bodies including a bronze award from the 2023 CLIO Sports Awards, Excellence in OOH Advertising from the Marketing Excellence Awards 2024, and Best Outdoor Ad from BestAdsOnTV.com.

The MOA Ball measuring 1.5 meters in diameter inside a goal with 111 meters in circumference was the result of the hard work of 248 workers (onsite workers, engineers, safety officers, and designers among others) who made sure basketball fans were in for a mesmerizing and worthy reminder that Filipinos were able to welcome the world’s best basketball players and teams for a once in a lifetime experience.

Smart remains a global partner of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 to be held in Qatar. The four-year partnership extension results from Smart’s stellar promotional work for FIBA 2023.

Telecommunity is proudly supporting this year’s Peñafrancia Festival, a celebration which shows the

faith and devotion of the Bicolano

to Our Lady of Peñafrancia. This year’s theme, “Se siempre la Reina!” or “Be Always the Queen!” celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Lady’s coronation. In cooperation with the City Government of Naga, DITO shows its support for local festivals by bringing communities together and celebrating Filipino culture. To make this year’s festival more exciting, DITO will offer fun experiences and activities, including experiential hubs and dynamic performances to showcase the vibrant local talent that makes the Bicol region remarkable. A standout feature of DITO’s support is the deployment of cell sites on wheels to provide stronger and more reliable network service. This technological boost is to ensure that participants and revelers of the festival will enjoy high-speed connectivity and seamless communication during the duration of the festival.

“We’re happy to participate and support this year’s Peñafrancia Festival as part of our continuous commitment to weaving stronger communities. This year, we’re bringing exciting activities powered by our next-generation technology to further energize the spirit of the festival and showcase more local Filipino talents,” said Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business.

TODO NA DITO sa Peñafrancia Festival Activities and Performances

The Tagboan Arts Festival will be happening from September 15 to 21, 2024 at the New Balatas Development Complex, immersing attendees in a week-long celebration of local arts and culture. At the center of the festival is DITO’s Experiential Hub, offering interactive experiences and exclusive freebies with the purchase of DITO products, such as Level-Up mobile prepaid packs, FLEXPlan postpaid plans, and our exciting new DITO Home 5G WiFi products.

Festival goers can fully enjoy the “TODO NA DITO” Roadshow on September 21, 2024, featuring various interactive activities like TODO Gaming, TODO Sayawan, and TODO Kantahan Finals, where local talents will compete for the top prize. The Peñafrancia Festival will be even more memorable with its grand finale—the “TODO NA DITO” Concert. Performances include Ched Valencia and Calle IV, with MAKI taking center stage, known for his hits like “Saan?” and “Dilaw.” This highly anticipated concert will cap off the celebration with an unforgettable experience.

provider, the industry faces a significant talent gap. While upskilling and reskilling efforts are underway to address this, companies must also focus on reducing turnover and enhancing employee retention. One effective strategy is offering EWA as a benefit. By allowing employees to access a portion of their earnings before payday, EWA programs help alleviate financial stress and foster a more supportive work environment. To help employers address the talent shortage and improve overall employee experience,

concerns by offering EWA is crucial to overcoming this obstacle,” said Sandeep Mulajkar,

Compare the coming In nix unit with its Apple counterpart

IBPAP teams up with Paywatch to address talent challenges in the IT-BPM industry during the ceremonial signing. Seated at the center is Sandeep Mulajkar, Managing Director of Paywatch Philippines, alongside Jack Madrid, President and CEO of IBPAP. Standing is Alex Kim, President and Co-founder of Paywatch (second right), and Celeste Ilagan, COO of IBPAP (left).

Alaminos City activates next generation emergency response command center

ALAMINOS City in Pangasinan has become the first city in the country to boast of a cutting edge emergency communication command center to respond to the public safety concerns of its citizens.

Before Alaminos, the town of Morong, Rizal had been the first municipality in the Philippines to provide world-class, state of the art emergency response.

At the National Emergency Response Summit held last August, Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos stressed the need for a unified, nationwide 911 emergency response system that uses the latest technology, like in the US and Europe. He exhorted all LGUs to put up their own emergency response centers equipped with the latest technology.

Abalos said the need is critical – especially during La Niña. LGUs must respond swiftly and accurately to emergencies, save lives and property and deliver quality public service.

“Every city and town must set up its own local emergency call center,” Abalos said, and directed the National E911 Office to involve all relevant agencies in the mission, emphasizing that advanced technology is a must in

tives are thus a hearty response to the call of the DILG Secretary and the Na-

E911 National Office Executive Director and Pangasinan First District Repre-

sentative Arthur Celeste on September 10 as the City launched the Alaminos, Pangasinan Next Gen 911 Command Center in Poblacion.

Like Morong, Alaminos City has partnered with NGA 911 to provide their constituents with world-class and complete solutions for emergency communication and public safety services.

NGA Philippines is the local subsidiary of NGA 911, LLC headquartered in California, USA, globally known as the innovator of emergency calling technology, and the leader in Next Generation 911 (NG911) emergency communications worldwide.

Built on industry standards adopted by the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) in the United States and the European Emergency Number Association (EENA), the NGA 911 system and technology will revolutionize the way and speed with which the LGU can handle emergencies.

“LGUs are most capable and should operate their own command centers because they know their own terrain, people, and types of emergencies best,” Executive Director Fajardo observed.

“The E911 National Office is a disaster recovery site and we are here to support Alaminos and all other LGUs that will put up their emergency response command centers. We will continue to provide guidance and training and route 911 calls, consistent to their activation process,” Fajardo added.

NGA 911 Country Head Robert Llaguno said “All 911 calls to the Alaminos DRRM Command Center are now fully recorded and conference and transfer facilities are now seamless. Its capability to respond efficiently and accurately to emergency callers has been revolutionized. Now, when someone calls 911, the location of that particular caller is immediately provided and the search radius is limited to just about 5 yards with 90% accuracy.”

ENABLING entertainment anywhere on the go, Xiaomi has released the new Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G in the Philippines, which boasts a SIM card slot for added mobile data connectivity. This compact yet powerful tablet offers a cinematic experience, exceptional audio, and seamless connectivity, all in a stylish and portable design.

The Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G is designed to be your go-to entertainment companion wherever you are, giving you mighty fun in a tiny pad package. Theater-level quality on the go

It gives an immersive theater experience with its 8.7-inch display with 600 nits of brightness and a 1500:1 contrast ratio ensures clear and vibrant visuals, even in outdoor settings. The 10-bit color depth delivers stunning color accuracy and detail, while the 90Hz refresh rate provides a smooth and responsive experience.

It’s also equipped with dual stereo speakers that deliver powerful and immersive sound. Running on Dolby Atmos® support, you can enjoy enhanced audio quality for movies, music, and games. Along with its entertainment capabilities, the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G boasts a built-in SIM card

CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc., the Philippines’ leading fiber broadband and business solutions provider, unveiled its groundbreaking product, Converge Concierge with SkyTV, set to transform the Philippine hospitality sector. This innovative all-in-one smart tv solution promises to streamline hotel operations and to elevate guests’ experiences, marking a new era in hospitality technology.

Converge Concierge with SkyTV integrates world-class cutting-edge technology with the company’s renowned high-speed broadband internet to create a comprehensive hospitality solution. The product features an in-room entertainment and information hub, complete with IoTenabled smart controls and the highdefinition IPTV solution, “SkyTV”.

“The hospitality industry is one that is close to my heart - one of my first enterprise clients was Mimosa Clark. We have come a long way and guests today expect more than just a comfortable stay in hotels—they demand personalized, seamless, and memorable experiences. Converge is proud to offer our technology and expertise to help bring the industry to the next

slot, you can stay connected to the internet and make calls on the go even without wi-fi. Enjoy seamless browsing, streaming, and social media no matter where you are.

The Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G can also keep you entertained all day. The large 6,650mAh battery ensures you can enjoy your favorite content for hours without worrying about running out of power. It’s also powered by an octa-core MediaTek Helio G85 processor that can handle all your demanding tasks with ease.

The Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G boasts a sleek and stylish design that is both comfortable to hold and easy to carry. It is available in three

vibrant colors: Graphite Gray, Aurora Green, and Sky Blue.

The Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G is now available in Xiaomi authorized stores for only P9,499 for the 4GB+128GB variant, and P8,499 for the 4GB+64GB variant, with a P500 discount on top of a free cover worth P699 and when you buy from now until September 26, 2024. Experience mighty fun with the amazing portable theater experience today with the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G! To learn more about the Redmi Pad SE 8.7 4G and other Xiaomi products, visit http:// mi.com/ph.

level and be at par with the rest of the world,” said Converge CEO and Co-

Founder Dennis Anthony Uy.

Key Features and Benefits:

● Seamless Integration: Converge Concierge with SkyTV effortlessly integrates with existing hotel property management systems, streamlining bookings, guest services, and billing processes.

● Customizable Interface: Hotels can tailor the user interface to match their brand and specific service offerings.

● Scalable Solutions: Content and bandwidth can be adjusted to meet the unique needs of each hospitality business.

● Comprehensive Entertainment: Guests can enjoy access to live programs, high-definition linear channels, and streaming platforms.

● Secure Chrome-casting: Ensures guest data protection in compliance with industry regulations and privacy best practices.

The launch of Converge Concierge with SkyTV comes at a cru-

cial time for the hospitality industry, as tourism peaks and hotels seek innovative ways to enhance guest experiences and improve operational efficiency.

“In today’s competitive hospitality landscape, providing a personalized, tech-forward experience is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity,” noted Converge Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Mr. Benjamin B. Azada. “Converge Concierge with SkyTV offers hotels the tools they need to meet and exceed guest expectations while optimizing their operations. This product represents our vision for the future of hospitality that will set a new standard for guests’ satisfaction and operational efficiency in hotels across the country.”

Converge Concierge with SkyTV is now available for implementation across hotels, hospitals, service apartments, and dormitories. Interested hoteliers and industry professionals can experience Converge Concierge with SkyTV firsthand.

To see its potential to revolutionize their business guest experience, please visit www.convergeict.com/ convergeconcierge

SHOWCASING the transformative potential of human-AI partnership, Google and Commune Cafe have teamed up to brew something that’s absolutely delicious and uniquely Pinoy at the same time.

From September 12 to 26, 2024, Commune will be serving the Filipino-flavored Special Bibingka Latte, a limited-edition coffee blend that’s created in collaboration with Gemini, Google’s generative AI.

The Special Bibingka Latte is heavily inspired by the flavors of the iconic Filipino delicacy, which is popular during the country’s extended Christmas season which anecdotally starts in September, the year’s first -ber month. The drink is comprised of Commune’s espresso and steamed milk, topped by savory shreds of salted egg and queso de bola to evoke the familiar feels of the holiday kakanin. Finally, the Latte is then rounded out by a torched pandan leaf to complete the Pinoy experience.

To craft this unique drink, Commune used the power of Google’s Gemini, a helpful generative AI designed to enhance people’s capabilities to think, create, and work. Gemini presented an array of innovative drink concepts, serving as a springboard for Commune’s talented baristas to develop their own masterpiece.

As part of the partnership, Google provided training on generative AI and Gemini to Commune Cafe staff, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to effectively harness Gemini. Following the training, the staff participated in a mini-workshop, where they were divided into groups and competed to put their knowledge into practice and explore the creative possibilities of Gemini within the cafe setting.

“Using Gemini for experimenting with concoctions was a lot of fun! It felt like having an extra brain in the room, ready to toss ideas around. It also streamlined our creative process significantly. Having access to Gemini’s vast knowledge made the whole process enjoyable and collaborative.” said Rosario “Ros” Juan, Chief Extractor of Coffee at Commune Cafe.

The Filipino-flavored Special Bibingka Latte is a limited-edition coffee blend that’s created in collaboration with Gemini, Google’s generative AI.

SHOWBIZ

Fresh energy and no pressure to win Stell sparks up The Voice Kids Philippines on GMA

STELL , the lead singer and choreographer of the globally popular P-pop group

SB19 , gears up for The Voice Kids , which premieres tomorrow night.

Joining him as returning coaches are Julie Anne San Jose and Billy Crawford, while Dingdong Dantes resumes his role as host.

SB19’s Pablo also joins the show as a new coach.

In a recent media conference, Stell shared his thoughts on the upcoming season and his approach to coaching young contestants.

Drawing from his past success with The Voice Generations , where his team, Vocalmyx, emerged victorious, Stell emphasized that he does not feel pressured to replicate that achievement. Instead, he is focused on ensuring

Very Wang Nickie Wang

that the young contestants enjoy the experience.

“Honestly, I don’t feel pressured.

My focus is on enjoying the experience and helping the kids make the most of it. I don’t want people to expect my team to win again this season,” Stell told Manila Standard Entertainment

“Instead, I want the children to relish the opportunity, as it’s something unique they won’t experience again. I didn’t have the chance to participate in a singing contest when I was younger, so I want them to feel free from pressure and work together as a team,” he added.

Stell acknowledged that mentoring children presents its own set of challenges, different from his previous experience with adults.

While he has some experience with young family members, guiding kids with big dreams is a unique responsibility. He aims to encourage them and support their growth without compromising their aspirations.

“While I have experience being

By Angelica Villanueva

at the

Actress for her role in Her

Wu

around young family members, mentoring kids with big dreams is a different experience. My goal is to encourage them and help them grow without negatively impacting their dreams,” he said.

“The real challenge will be guiding them during the ‘Blind Auditions’ and then making difficult decisions in the ‘Battle Rounds’ and beyond. It’s akin to being a parent who must make tough choices. However, I believe my previous experience has improved my decision-making skills. At the end of the day, this is still a competition,” the P-pop idol added.

To motivate the young contestants, Stell advises them to give their all and show that they deserve their place in the competition. He is committed to helping them achieve their goals and is prepared to tackle the challenges ahead. Stell expressed his hope that, like the contestants, he too would achieve his dreams for the show, and together, they could make the most of this opportunity.

“I encourage them to give their best because each child has their own dream, and some might be bigger than others. I want them to demonstrate that they deserve to

be in the competition, and I will do everything in my capacity to help them reach their goals. It’s a big challenge, but I’m ready for it. Like them, I have dreams for this show, and I hope we can achieve those dreams together,” Stell concluded. The Voice Kids , by ITV Studios, finds its new home in the Philippines on GMA-7. The talent reality show, which features young singers aged between 7 and 14, airs every Sunday night at 7:05.

FILIPINO boy group BGYO has been nominated for the BreakTudo Awards in Brazil for Music by New International Artist with their single “Patintero.”

As the group continues to make waves internationally, BGYO is also set to launch a new vlog series, BGYO CANtakeUS, to give fans an exclusive look at the boy band’s North American tour. The vlog series premiered on BGYO’s official YouTube channel last night. New episodes will be released every Friday.

The vlog series showcases the boy group’s travels across the US and Canada, including performances at events such as ASAP live in California, MYX Presents @ 626 Night Market in Arcadia, Pistahan Parade in San Francisco, Wish Bus USA, Fiesta Filipino in Calgary, and Fun Philippines in Toronto. BGYO’s international presence is further cemented by its collaboration with Grammy winners Lostboy and Tele on their latest single “Trash,” which has garnered half a million views on YouTube and 350,000 streams on Spotify.

The group’s fresh sound has earned them spots on several Spotify editorial playlists, including “It’s a Hit!,” “P-pop On The Rise,” and “we SEA you.”

older sister. They didn’t know I was researching them,” Rebecca stated.

“It was a very difficult role because I haven’t experienced dementia. When I started interviewing my aunties and older sister, it hit me that maybe it will happen to me one day,” she added.

When asked what she learned from portraying a character with dementia, Rebecca told Manila Standard Entertainment that she gained a greater understanding of people suffering from the condition.

“What I’ve learned is that we need to be more compassionate. We cannot judge people because of their weaknesses or greed. We have to view things from their perspective,” the actress said.

She hoped the film would increase awareness and empathy for those with dementia.

“Well, I hope that after watching the film, there will be more concern for people with dementia because it’s an illness they did not ask for,” Rebecca emphasized.

Produced by Rebecca Chuaunsu Film Production in cooperation with Rebelde Films, Her Locket also stars Elora Españo, Boo Gabunada, Zoey Villamanca, Benedict Cua, and Francis Mata, among others. The film was showcased at the Sinag Maynila Film Festival 2024 from Sept. 4 to 8.

Rebecca Chuaunsu aims to raise dementia awareness with ‘Her Locket’

inheritance. The film explores themes of familial conflict, loss, and the power of forgiveness.

prestigious award was

Taipei International Film Festival.

to

on Sept. 1 during

held at the Westar Theater in Ximending, Taipei, Taiwan. Rebecca served as both the producer and lead actress of the film, which was directed by J.E. Tiglao and inspired by her family’s story. Her Locket follows Jewel Ouyang, a former Chinese actress struggling with dementia. As Jewel unravels her past through an old locket, she confronts her brother in court to reclaim her stolen

Following its international success, including Rebecca’s Best Actress awards at the 2023 Festival International du Film Transsaharien de Zagora in Morocco and the 2024 Wu Wei Taipei International Film Festival in Taiwan, Her Locket made its Philippine debut at the Sinag Maynila Film Festival 2024. Tiglao, who co-wrote the film with Maze Miranda, described it as “a restorative story of women who choose not to be silenced.”

During a press conference, Rebecca revealed that the idea for the film had been on her mind for over three decades, inspired by her father’s will.

“This story was inspired by true events when

my father wrote his last will and testament. It has been on my mind for 32 years, and during the pandemic, I told myself that if I didn’t produce this story, I wouldn’t live,” Rebecca shared.

“So, during the two pandemic years, I went through 26 diaries of my mother and six diaries of my father and discovered inheritance issues. I knew then that I had to produce this story,” she continued.

Although she initially planned to cast someone else, Rebecca ultimately took on the role of Jewel herself and conducted extensive research on dementia to ensure an authentic portrayal.

“I was scared because I don’t have dementia myself. So, I researched and interviewed many dementia patients, who are my aunties and my

Actress Rebecca Chuaunsu takes on the role of Jewel

Locket’

‘Her Locket’ follows the story of a former Chinese actress who is struggling with dementia

Rebecca Chuaunsu (third from right) receives her Best Actress award during the 2024 Wu Wei Taipei International Film Festival

From left: ’The Voice Kids’ coaches Billy Crawford, Julie Anne San Jose, Stell, and Pablo

‘The Voice Kids Philippines’ coaches with host Dingdong Dantes (center)

Coach Stell is focused on making sure that the young contestants will enjoy their time in the show

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14,

NICKIE WANG,

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA,

By Abigail Adriatico

N A daily basis, marginalized groups across the country face various struggles that continually affect their quality of life. Recognizing this societal issue, many organizations and individuals strive to support these sectors through programs and projects aimed at improving their lives.

Annual International Bazaar returns, proceeds to benefit underserved communities

One such program committed to this noble cause is the annual International Bazaar.

The International Bazaar, an annual fundraising event organized by the International Bazaar Foundation, Inc. (IBF) in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, and the Spouses of the Heads of Mission (SHOM), serves as a oneday charity event.

Local and international goods, along with merchandise from participating countries, are showcased and sold. Diplomatic Missions are also given the opportunity to introduce products from their respective countries and network with local importers in the Philippines.

During the media conference held on Sept. 12 at the World Trade Center for the bazaar’s 58th year, several Diplomatic Missions, including those from Argentina, Australia, Ghana, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, Syria, Turkiye, the United States, and Vietnam, previewed the products they will be displaying at the event.

These products range from famous delicacies, such as Hungary’s savory sausages, India’s sweet gulab jamun,

and Argentina’s high-quality wine, to handcrafted goods like Ghana’s dashiki and kente-made clothing, as well as Japan’s handwoven bags. Local products by Filipino artisans, including food items, handicrafts, and souvenirs, will also be featured at the bazaar.

Although IBF was still accepting applicants, the bazaar had confirmed 172 booths, with 39 embassies and consulates participating. In an interview with Manila Standard Life, IBF Executive Director Nora C. Salazar mentioned that they expect more embassies and consulates to join, with Thailand and Israel among those they are

waiting to hear from.

Since its inception in 1966, all proceeds from the International Bazaar have been directed toward programs and projects supporting marginalized sectors in areas such as education, livelihood, and more. This year, proceeds will benefit charity projects and programs led by the IBF and SHOM.

Currently, the IBF supports 52 active scholars and various livelihood projects for distressed communities and calamity victims.

It also provides financial and inkind support to civic organizations, medical institutions, and NGOs that assist persons with disabilities,

the elderly, the homeless, abused women, abandoned children, and others in need.

She further explained that the IBF selects the institutions and beneficiaries based on specific criteria.

“First of all, the institution applying has to be SEC registered. They need to

“When we raise funds, the board usually meets and decides how much will be allocated for education, such as scholarships for college, support for institutions caring for the elderly and abused children, and startup funds for livelihood projects in distressed communities and victims of calamities, which we unfortunately often have,” Salazar shared.

have a track record and be accredited with the DSWD, meaning they must be legitimate. We also monitor their operations before making a decision,” Salazar said.

With an expected foot traffic of 6,000 attendees, Salazar also mentioned that donor cards will be available, serving as raffle tickets for a chance to win special cash prizes.

The 58th International Bazaar will be held on Nov. 3 at the World Trade Center, Halls B and C, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at P150 and can be purchased at Tesoros, 1016 A. Arnaiz Ave., Makati, during store hours from Monday to Sunday.

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The USA showcases various products like meat, cheese, and many others

Hungary’s booth features authentic Hungarian sausages made with real Hungarian paprika

Japan’s booth features artisan goods such as traditional Japanese tableware and handwoven bags

From left: IBF Press Relations Officer Veronica Jimenez, Pamela Manalo, IBF Executive president Nora Salazar, and Embassy of Turkiye and SHOM representative Indri Akyol

Singapore’s booth highlights many of the country’s snacks and delicacies