17 senatorial bets file COC
Day 1 of election season draws mix of familiar, new faces
By Vito Barcelo, Rio Araja, Pot Chavez and Jun N. Aguirre
APARTY-LIST lawmaker, an electrician, and a former presidential candidate were among the first aspiring politicians to file their certificates of candidacy (COCs) on the first day of the eight-day filing period for the 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE).
Romualdez files COC for reelection bid
By Maricel V. Cruz
SPEAKER Martin Romualdez filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) on Tuesday for another term as representative of Leyte’s first district, his sixth term as member of the House if elected once again.
He filed his COC before lawyer Maria Goretti Canas, acting provincial election supervisor of the Commission on Elections-Leyte in his hometown Tacloban City. Romualdez, a lawyer from the University of the Philippines (UP), expressed sincere gratitude to the people of Leyte for their continued trust and support throughout his political career.
“The continuous support of our countrymen is my inspiration to continue what we have started. It is a great honor to serve Leyte and the entire country,” said Romualdez, president of the Philippine Constitution Association.
During his filing of his COC, Romualdez was accompanied by other top officials of the province, including Governor Jericho Petilla, Vice Gov. Leonardo Javier, 2nd District Rep. Karen Javier, as well as mayors from the 1st District, including Remedios Petilla (Palo), Lovell
By Rex Espiritu and Maricel V. Cruz
SOME 77,249 individuals in upper Luzon were affected by Typhoon Julian, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said on Tuesday.
SO
In its latest situation report, the agency disclosed that a total of 22,645 families residing in 252 barangays in Regions 1, 2 and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) bore the storm’s brunt.
Region 1 took the hardest hit with
44,521 individuals affected, or equivalent to 13,105 families. The NDRRMC noted that the heavy rains submerged communities and caused landslides in several parts of Luzon as it made its way out of the country.
By Pot Chavez
A MANILA court has convicted the 10 Aegis Juris
AND
IT BEGINS. House Speaker Martin G. Romualdez was among the first to file his certificate of candidacy (COC) for the 1st district of Leyte in Tacloban City. Other politicians who filed their COC’s were, inset at left, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and her running mate, Vice Mayor Vico Sotto; Senator Nancy Binay, right photo, who is aiming to be Mayor of Makati City, and Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, bottom right photo, who is sliding down to Vice Governor in the
Noveno, Manny Palmero.
PBBM ratings dip; VP Sara’s drops
By Charles Dantes
THE approval and trust ratings of the country’s two top officials declined in the third quarter, pollster Pulse Asia reported Tuesday.
What was notable, the pollster said, was the marked decline in the ratings of Vice President Sara Duterte whose approval rating dropped to 60 percent on Sept. 24 from 69 percent on June 24, 2024. Her trust ratings likewise fell to 61 percent from 71 percent during the same period, the pollster said.
The pollster noted that the survey was conducted at a time when the House of Representatives was conducting hearings on the 2025 budget, “with the Vice President and other OVP officials snubbing the second budget hearing on Sept. 10, 2024; the Vice President said she is prepared to work with zero budget in the event the
Ann Yu-Castro (Alang-alang), Eleonor Lugnasin (Babatngon), Norman Sabdao (San Miguel), Amparo Monteza (Santa Fe), Gina Merilo (Tanauan), and Erwin Ocana (Tolosa).
Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez was represented by Councilor Raymund Romualdez, president of the Liga ng mga Barangay of Tacloban and Region VII.
Among Romualdez’s notable legislative achievements as a lawmaker is the passage of Republic Act 10754, a law that grants persons with disabilities (PWDs) exemption from the value-added tax (VAT) as well as other discounts and benefits during the Aquino administration.
“This is one of the laws that I am proud to have authored because it genuinely helps a sector of Philippine society. We aim to pass more laws like this if we are fortunate enough to get a fresh mandate from the people of Leyte,” Romualdez said.
As Majority Leader of the 18th Congress, Romualdez’s leadership was pivotal during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, where he helped pass urgent laws such as Bayanihan 1 and Bayanihan 2, providing crucial aid to millions of Filipinos affected by the crisis.
“During the pandemic, we worked tirelessly to pass laws that addressed the health and economic challenges brought by COVID-19. Our Bayanihan laws provided much-needed assistance to our people,” Romualdez said.
During his tenure as Speaker of the House, Romualdez oversaw the passage of several landmark laws, among them are the SIM Registration Act, the Maharlika Investment Fund, and the New Agrarian Emancipation Act.
sparked by an ongoing and much publicized congressional inquiry into the alleged abuses of the previous administration.
Following closely behind is inflation, which continues to put a strain household budgets, the company reported.
“The economy and poverty rank third, further underscoring the public’s desire for policies that directly address their day-to-day challenges,” the firm further stated.
Price surges in basic commodities topped the public’s list of concerns when the company conducted the same survey in the second quarter of 2024.
PUBLiCUS Asia said its survey highlights the evolving priorities of the Filipino people as they adapt to the current socio-economic climate.
“While the public’s concerns remain largely consistent, there is a notable shift in the ranking of these issues. Corruption now tops the list, reflecting a growing frustration with governance and accountability across different sectors of society,” the company surmised.
Furthermore, the survey also indicates that as the country moves into the next quarter, the primary fear of households is being unable to provide for the family’s basic needs (14%).
“This is followed by a similar concern which is the fear of not being able to buy basic commodities due to prices (13%) and not getting enough pay (12%),” the report further states.
OVP is defunded by Congress.”
President Marcos’ approval rating, on the other hand, dipped slightly to 50 from 53 percent, Pulse Asia said. His trust ratings inched downward from 52 to 52 percent. In the September poll, 29% of respondents were undecided about the President’s performance, while 21% expressed dissatisfaction. On trust, 22% indicated little or no trust, and 28% were undecided. Marcos’ highest approval rating came from Balance Luzon at 61%, followed by Metro Manila and the Visayas, both at 52%. His lowest rating was in Mindanao, where he scored 26%. Trust was similarly high in
Balance Luzon at 64%, while Mindanao again registered the lowest score at 21%.
Mr. Marcos’ approval and trust ratings were strongest among respondents from the Class D income bracket, where he received 52% for both. Other government officials included in the survey were Senate President Chiz Escudero, who recorded a 60% approval rating and 56% trust rating. Speaker Martin Romualdez received a 32% approval rating and a 31% trust rating.
The survey was conducted from Sept. 6 to 13, 2004 using face-to-face interviews based on a sample of 2,400 respondents 18 years old and above.
Navy notes decline in number of China ships in WPS
By Rex Espiritu
THE Philippine Navy reported on Tuesday a significant decrease in the number of foreign ships in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The report was made a week after China reportedly swarmed the area and as tropical storm ‘Julian’ began to make its way to the northern tip of Luzon.
From September 17 to 23, the Philippine Navy recorded 251 vessels. The Navy noted a reduction to 178 Chinese ships in its log from September 24 to September 30.
“These are raw figures based on a oneweek monitoring; it is too early to attribute the decrease to any particular event,” Navy spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad told reporters.
As of Monday evening, ‘Julian’ turned into a super typhoon and is forecast to reenter the country’s area of responsibility, according to state weather agency PAGASA..
At Escoda Shoal, also known as Sabina Shoal, where the government recently withdrew its ship, the Navy reported a decrease of 10 Chinese Coast
Guard Vessels (CCGV) from six in the last monitoring period.
Additionally, the number of People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels decreased from 11 to five, and Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels (CMMV) dropped from 55 to 12.
Ayungin Shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, where BRP Sierra Madre, a Navy ship, is grounded, also recorded a significant decrease in Chinese vessels. The number of CMMV decreased from 62 in the last monitoring to just 12 in the latest report.
High Court junks Roque’s petition for amparo
By Pot Chavez
THE Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday denied Harry Roque’s prayer for a writ of amparo claiming that the House of Representatives Quad Committee’s contempt and detention orders threaten his rights to life, liberty, and security.
The SC also directed the Quad Committee to comment on the petition for prohibition, within 10 days from receipt of the Resolution.
The SC sitting En Banc held that amparo is not the proper remedy against Congressional contempt and detention orders.
OVP
will
have more than what
By Maricel V. Cruz
showed there were no disturbances during the filing of Certificate of Candidacy. Our first day was a success. Outside the venue, the filers have many companions but they were able to observe order during the filing,” he added.
Garcia said the poll body delisted and cancelled the registration of 42 partylist organizations for either failing to participate or failing to get a seat in the last two elections.
On the other hand, at least 160 partylist organizations will be accredited, of which 42 are new groups.
AGRI party-list Wilbert Lee was first to file his COC for a senatorial seat at the Manila Hotel Tent City. His supporters were at the area as early as 5 a.m. Former presidential candidate Joey Montemayor, who is attempting for a Senate seat for a third time, will be running under the Partido Pederal ng Maharlika (PPM).
Alexander Encarnacion, an electrician and a carpenter, submitted his COC with the promise of improving the
The former presidential spokesperson had asked the Court to prohibit the Quad Committee from arresting him, requiring him to attend future hearings, and producing documents.
lives of all Filipinos. He, however, has not been able to participate in any senatorial elections in the past because he was always disqualified by the Comelec for being a nuisance candidate.
Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino also formalized his bid for reelection under the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, which is part of the administration’s Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas.
The first party-list to file a certificate of nomination and acceptance (CONA) for the 2025 midterm elections was the Kabayan Party-list, led by incumbent Rep. Ron Salo.
Bayan Muna also filed its CONA, fielding seasoned human rights lawyers Neri Colmenares and Carlos Zarate as first and second nominees, respectively.
Over 18,000 positions will be contested by candidates across the country in the May 2025 midterm polls, Garcia said.
In the national race, 12 senatorial seats, 63 seats for party-list representatives and 254 seats for congressional district representatives will be available.
For the local polls, there are 82 seats each for governor and vice governor; 800 seats for Sangguniang Panlalawigan members; 149 seats each for city mayor
wan between Tuesday and Wednesday morning, the weather bureau added.
The scope of amparo is limited to extralegal killings and enforced disappearances, or threats thereof, which are not present in this case, according to the High Tribunal.
and city vice mayor; and 1,690 seats for Sangguniang Panlungsod members.
Similarly, there are 1,493 seats each for municipal mayor and municipal vice mayor; 11,948 seats for Sangguniang Bayan members; 25 seats for the members of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliament and 40 seats for the BARMM party representatives.
The campaign period for candidates for the House of Representatives, as well as parliamentary, provincial, city, and municipal offices will be from March 28, 2025 to May 10, 2025.
In Quezon City, Mayor Joy Belmonte on Tuesday filed her COC to formalize her re-election bid.
“It is how we have improved the lives of our QCitizens and earned their trust in the past five years. It is the resounding vote of confidence from the business sector, even amid the pandemic and other challenging situations. Ultimately, what matters most is the lasting impact we have made on the people we serve,” she said.
Quezon City 1st district Rep. Juan Carlos Atayde likewise filed his COC for a second term under the Alyansa banner.
However, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that while “Julian” exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) Tuesday, it can circle back and re-enter the country on Wednesday. The storm was packing 195 kph winds near the center and gusts of up to 240 kph, as it was observed moving slowly westward away from PAR. Typhoon Julian was forecast to recurve towards the sea southwest of Tai-
Meanwhile, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Ilocos Norte declared a state of calamity over the province in response to the devastating impact of the super typhoon which is internationally known as “Krathon.”
As of late Tuesday morning, Signal No. 2 was still hoisted over the municipalities of Burgos, Bangui, Dumalneg, Pagudpud, Vintar, Adams, Pasuquin, and Bacarra , while Signal No. 1 remained over the rest of the province.
Furthermore, the entire province was still under PAGASA’s “Orange” rainfall warning.
“Due to the torrential rainfall, wide-
scale flooding, destroyed bridges and roads, and power and communication interruptions have been reported throughout the province,” the provincial government said in a statement.
“As of today [Tuesday], damages to crops are estimated at more than P85,000,000.00, losses in livestock and poultry are valued at P385,000.00, and assessments of infrastructure damages are ongoing,” it added. It was further explained that the declaration of the state of calamity enables the provincial government to mobilize resources swiftly and efficiently to assist affected residents through the utilization of its Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund.
On Tuesday, Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 11 announced that it found Arvin Balag, Mhin Wei Chan, Axel Hipe, Ralph Trangia, Oliver Onofre, Joshua Macabali, Robin Ramos, Marcelino Bagtang, Hans Rodrigo, and Jose Salamat guilty beyond resonable doubt of violating Republic Act 8049 or
the Anti-Hazing Law. Autopsy showed the 22-year-old freshman died from “severe blunt traumatic injuries” after allegedly undergoing the initiation rites of the said fraternity. Meanwhile, Atio’s parents, who were present when the judgment was announced, were emotional as they called out the liability of the school and its administrators on the case.
“At this point, I would like to say that I am holding the University of Santo Tomas responsible for the death of our son. It has been proven that Aegis Juris has been practicing hazing and it is time to check your policies and laws in the school,” Atio’s mother Carmina told the media. She added the UST, Faculty of Civil Law, and Dean [Nilo Divina] “failed to protect” their son. For Atio’s father, Horacio Castillo III underscored “it is about time heads should roll in UST.”
VICE President Sara Duterte will have a budget for next year that is bigger than most of the outlays allocated to her predecessor, Leni Robredo, during the latter’s six-year tenure, a senior leader of the House of Representatives said. “The Office of the Vice President (OVP) led by VP Duterte will not be crippled despite the decision of the House to reduce her 2025 funding. The Vice President will have sufficient funds to discharge her constitutional duties,” Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales, Jr. said.
Gonzales said to his credit, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez prevailed upon members of the minority, who were angered by the Vice President’s absence in plenary and committee deliberations on her budget, not to further cut it.
Gonzales said in 2023, during Duterte’s first full year in office, she had P2.344 billion, including a P500million Confidential and Intelligence Fund (CIF) and a P920-million “financial assistance” allocation; while Robredo had P428.6 million, without a CIF and a financial aid fund in her first full year in office in 2017.
Last year, her second full year, VP Duterte had P1.874 billion, while Robredo had P543.9 million in 2018, he said. Next year, the incumbent Vice President’s third year in office, she will have P733 million, while Robredo had P663.4 million in 2019, he added.
Leni had solon Grade 11 student killed in alleged frat hazing rites
AN 18-year-old student was killed during an alleged fraternity hazing rites in Barangay San Anton, Nueva Ecija, last Sunday night. The victim, a Grade 11 student from Barangay San Pablo, was found dead after reportedly undergoing the final rites of a fraternity initiation.
ordered Comelec not to implement Section 11 of its Resolution No. 11045.
“All parties are required to observe the status quo (that) public appointive officials are deemed resigned upon filing their certificate of candidacy,” the SC said.
SC also required the Comelec to comment on the petition within a non-extendible period of 10 days. In its resolution, Comelec said appointive officials who are nominated by a party-list group for the 2025 midterm elections must resign from their posts upon the start of the campaign period and not from the filing of the certificate of candidacy. Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal earlier filed a supplemental petition challenging the resolution and seeking a TRO.
“I believe that the government officials, under the Constitution, are prohibited to engage in partisan political activities,” Macalintal said. He said the act of filing a COC is already a partisan political activity and the filing of nomination and acceptance as a nominee is akin to the filing of COC. Pot Chavez
Prior to the promulgation of the decision, Atio’s parents earlier shared they expect a ‘perfect conviction’ of the fraternity members.
“Very obvious that hazing happened and the prosecution, we have proven with our evidence and our witnesses that hazing happened so we expect conviction,” said Carmina.
Atio’s father said “today will mark the beginning of something big,” expressing hope that the conviction of those be -
Rep. Doris E. Maniquiz: Paving the Way
for ‘Serbisyong may Pagmamahal at Malasakit’
By Patricia Taculao-Deligero
REP. Doris Ecdao Maniquiz began her public service career as the Municipal Mayor of Botolan, a position she held from 2013 to 2022. A homegrown leader, Rep. Maniquiz has found an effective way to promote economic development within her jurisdiction.
From her time as the Municipal Mayor of Botolan to her current role as district representative, she has proven to be a driving force in the wholistic, effective and long-lasting social, health, educational, and economic progress of the district. Rep. Maniquiz is affectionately known as “Nanay Bing” of Zambales, a title she has earned through her genuine care and service to her constituents. Her core mission, “Serbisyong may pagmamahal at malasakit, alagang nanay,” reflects her commitment to make sure that love and compassion reach every family and be felt in every home across the district.
As a three-termer local executive, she established the Dr. Florentino C. Doble Memorial Hospital (formerly Kainomayan Primary Hospital) which received “No Balance Billing Award” from the Department of Health in 2014. It caters primarily to Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and indigent patients.
Prior to RA 10931 or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act of 2017, then Mayor Bing made sure that all students especially the members of IPs would enjoy free college education from the Polytechnic College of Botolan (PCB). This paved the way for the IPs to disregard the social stigma in mingling with lowlanders. Because of free college education, police officers, teachers, and information technology experts now hail from the IP community. During her term, too, requests for educational and financial assistance of constituents regardless of political affiliation were granted.
The rice subsidy program which she started in 2013 offering 10 kilograms of commercial rice for only P200 is one of Rep. Maniquiz’s most impactful initiatives. This program had significantly relieved countless families struggling to make ends meet, especially during lean months.
In 2019, Botolan hosted the 17th Boy Scout National Jamboree where Nanay Bing was the Camp Chief. The Jamboree catered to more than 25,000 scouts from all over the Philippines. Due to the successful conduct of the said jamboree, the Letter of Intent for hosting of the 2025 Asia Pacific Jamboree in Botolan, Zambales submitted by Nanay Bing was successfully granted. Recognizing the importance of education, Rep. Maniquiz also launched an educational assistance program to support college students within the 2nd District. She has enabled many young people to pursue their academic goals and contribute to the district’s development by providing financial aid.
Rep. Maniquiz’s district covers 10 towns namely San Antonio, San Narciso, San Felipe, Cabangan, Botolan, Iba, Palauig, Masinloc, Candelaria, and Sta. Cruz. Through her strong partnership with Tingog Partylist, she has established the “Kalingang Nanay Bing at Alagang Tingog Center” to become conduits and sources of essential services and support from the national government coursed through the House of Representatives headed by Speaker Martin Romualdez and Tingog Partylist’s Yedda Marie Romualdez and Jude Acidre.
Additionally, she has collaborated with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to implement the TUPAD program which offers short-term employment opportunities to individuals in need.
Furthermore, social welfare services such as medical assistance, burial, transportation, education, food, or financial assistance were provided through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program in cooperation with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Recognizing the challenges faced by fisherfolks due to the ongoing dispute in
the West Philippine Sea, Rep. Maniquiz has worked closely with House Speaker Romualdez to develop alternative livelihood program coined as Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). These initiatives help affected communities’ transition to sustainable and resilient economic activities.
Regarding infrastructure development, Rep. Maniquiz has overseen extensive construction and renovation projects through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). New facilities, school buildings, upgraded and improved infrastructure have significantly enhanced the quality of life for residents throughout the district. Major infrastructure projects include Zambales Bahay Kalinga, BotolanIba Bypass Road, and the President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU) Gymnasium.
Knowledge of abused girls in the community forced Nanay Bing to seek funds for the establishment of the Zambales Bahay Kalinga in Barangay Sta. Barbara, Iba, Zambales since the nearest center for abused girls is a non-government agency in Olongapo City, a two-hour travel from the heart of Zambales. For poor families, the cost of transportation to access the center is an additional burden. Having a center in the district provides relief to families who need it. On the other hand, the Botolan-Iba Bypass Road was conceived as part of the district’s infrastructure development to support the growing population of these towns. Finally, when the Ramon Magsaysay Technological University (RMTU) became a state university in 2018, the seven campuses yielded a big number of graduates. The New PRMSU Gymnasium is the answer to the perennial problem where graduation rites are scheduled in five batches due to the volume of graduates. The New PRMSU Gymnasium can now accommodate up to 4,000 people including graduates, parents, and guests. Under her leadership, the Second District of Zambales became the first in Region 3 to host the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) that catered various social welfare, economic, and legal services to 105,000 Zambalenos last January 27, 2024. Fortyfour national agencies converged during the BPSF to serve Zambalenos. Among the agencies were DSWD, DOH, CHED, PSA,
NFA, PRC, LTO, DOLE, TESDA, SSS, and Pagibig among others. This is a testament to her dedication in fostering the ideals of Bagong Pilipinas. After the First BPSF, Nanay Bing saw the opportunity to tap in-demand national agencies. She continued the ideals of the BPSF through the conduct of the Second Mini Serbisyo Fair on February 15-16, 2024 where she tapped LTO, CSC, and PRC. In addition, Mini Serbisyo Days are also conducted every two weeks in different towns providing the following services: medical, surgical, dental, legal counseling, and others. These efforts did not go unnoticed by the BPSF National Team. Hence, on August 19, 2024, Nanay Bing received “Outstanding Participation Award for the Longest-Running Serbisyo Fair”. Rep. Maniquiz’s goal is to ensure that even the most marginalized communities feel the tangible presence of government support. As for her contributions to national legislation, she prioritized House Bill 08242, or An Act Granting Free Assessment Fees for Senior High School Students under the
Senior High School Training-VocationalLivelihood Track; House Bill 08159, or An Act Granting Free Tuition for Government Employees enrolled in master’s programs at state universities and colleges; and House Bill 05240 or An Act Exempting Trees, Plants, and Growing Fruits from real property taxes, providing tax deductions for such properties. Rep. Maniquiz’s unwavering dedication to serve her constituents has earned her the respect and admiration of many. Her leadership has positive impact on the entire 2nd District. She champions the ‘‘Whole-of-Government Approach’’ where the national government works with and through the congress down to the governors and mayors to the Kalingang Nanay Bing and Tingog Centers so that funds from the national government are received by every Juan and Juana, even those who reside at the remotest areas. As she continues to advocate for the welfare of her community, Rep. Maniquiz’s legacy as a champion for social, health, educational, economic, and environmental progress will undoubtedly endure.
Born on October 20, 1964, Rep. Doris Ecdao Maniquiz graduated from Mapua Institute of Technology in 1987 with an Electronics and Communications Engineering degree. She demonstrated entrepreneurial skills early in life, beginning with a hollow-block manufacturing business. Rep. Maniquiz later became Manager of DMJ Construction from 1989 to 2001 and eventually the President of Maniquiz JSR Construction from 2001 to 2013. She is a mother to three daughters: Rizza Jeresano-Fernando, a medical doctor from the University of Sto.Tomas specializing in Radiology; Sofia Denise Jeresano-Agbayani, a chemical engineer from the University of the Philippines and Janina Jeresano, a magna cum laude graduate of industrial engineering from the University of the Philippines as well.
From mangoes to mountains: Zambales 2nd District’s nature and culture
By Peter Paul Duran
THE Philippines’ rapid urbanization and industrialization and its vulnerability to natural disasters make balancing economic growth and environmental preservation particularly urgent. More often than not, this task falls onto the shoulders of public leaders who the public elected to lead the way toward growth and development.
In the Second District of Zambales, Rep. Doris Ecdao Maniquiz demonstrates how to promote economic development within her jurisdiction while conserving the natural resources from its environment, allowing her to leave a lasting legacy among her constituents
Consisting of the 10 towns of Zambales’ second district offers a
unique combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and forward-thinking ecological initiatives. Apart from being known for producing some of the best mangoes in the country, this district is also making its mark in local development through sustainable practices and eco-friendly projects that reflect the district’s distinct identity. District-wide tree planting efforts have been conducted for two years now. This is because one of the district’s crowning achievements is its commitment to environmental conservation and tourism.
Under Rep. Maniquiz’s leadership, several ecological projects have taken root. One of these is rehabilitation of the area’s coral reefs through the installation of artificial reefs and coral transplantation which have demonstrably revitalized marine
life along Zambales’ coastline. These efforts have bolstered not just marine biodiversity, but also the livelihood and welfare of the local fishing communities whose members rely on the marine waters for their livelihood. Mangrove and forest reforestation programs have also been implemented. Taken together, their impacts contribute and ensure long-term environmental protection and sustainability of the development efforts in the area.
Another major area of focus is ecotourism, with Botolan at the heart of these developments. The district has harnessed its natural wonders, such as Mt. Pinatubo Crater and the cascading TukalTukal Waterfalls, to promote sustainable tourism. Adventure challenge programs have attracted tourists to these sites,
with the Aeta communities playing a vital support role. Empowered through training and partnerships, the Aetas now serve as tour guides and liaison officers, connecting visitors with the rich cultural and natural landscape of Zambales. Other sustainable ecotourism places to visit include Hermana Mayor (Sta. Cruz); Potipot Isalnd (Candelaria); Bacala Beach (Masinloc); Mt. Tapulao (Palauig); Liwliwa (San Felipe); Magalawa (Palauig); and Anawangin Cove (San Antonio).
These initiatives not only support the local economy but also conserve the district’s environmental integrity, ensuring that residents and visitors alike will continue to enjoy Zambales’ natural splendor for years to come. The Aeta community, in particular, has thrived through these ecotourism projects,
bridging the gap between traditional practices and modern tourism in a way that promotes cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. The multiplier effect of tourism is felt –businesses are thriving, jobs are being generated even as the natural and manmade environment is protected and conserved.
Through its unique products, like its world-renowned mangoes, and the people’s firm dedication to ecological and community-based tourism, as championed by Rep. Maniquiz, the 2nd District of Zambales is becoming a model for local progress in the Bagong Pilipinas, paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future, not just for the district and the province, but for the nation as well.
Ombudsman reinstates Bohol o icials in Chocolate Hills mess
By Rio N. Araja
THE Office of the Ombudsman has lifted the preventive suspension against 32 Bohol officials amid an investigation into the construction and operation of the controversial Captain’s Peak Garden and Resort inside the Chocolate Hills protected area.
“In the interest of justice and fair play and consonant to this Office’s previous Consolidated Order dated 31 July 2024, the preventive suspension of the following respondents is hereby lifted,” its 25-page
consolidated order read.
The Ombudsman lifted the suspension on five mayors, village captains and regional directors of the Department of Agriculture and Philippine National Police.
Rep. Villar: Mechanical engineers shape PH’s future on innovation
By Maricel V. Cruz
HOUSE Deputy Leader and Las Piñas City Rep. Camille Villar has cited the contributions of mechanical engineers to the country’s development, noting their vital role in building a better and more prosperous future for the Philippines.
“To all our mechanical engineers today, let me thank you for your remarkable contribution to the advancement of our country through the engineering field. It is through your expertise that we advance towards efficiency, innovation, and sustainability,” Villar said during the recent National Convention of the Pambansang Samahan Inhenyero Mekanikal, Inc (PSIM) and the 3rd Mechanical Engineering Student Conference.
“Indeed, you shape the future of innovation and development in the Philippines, and you have a critical role in the country’s road to national progress,” Villar added.
Villar stressed engineers are close to her heart, principally because of her family’s busi-
ness in real estate and in the service sector.
“I believe that engineers intrinsically embody three key pillars that are essential not only to your profession but to the progress of our nation — truth, strength, and knowledge. These virtues converge at the very core of your discipline and ensure that the country achieves its goals of building better, and of building more for our countrymen so that we can become competitive in the global stage,” she said.
She also vowed her full commitment to the engineering sector as she underscored PSIM’s dedication and hard work in elevating the practice of mechanical engineering in the Philippines.
“To PSIM: Your mission to further elevate the profession of mechanical engineering is something I stand by with my whole heart. As you move forward in truth, strength, and knowledge, know that I am behind you in continuing to build a better and more prosperous future for the Philippines,” she said.
Lawmaker hails PBBM on seafarer law
REP. Marissa Magsino of the OFW partylist expressed relief over President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s
The provincial and local government officials of Sagbayan town, Bohol were charged with grave misconduct and gross neglect of duty for supposedly tolerating the operation and expansion of the resort.
In May, the Ombudsman placed Bohol Gov. Erico Aumentado and 68 other offi cials under preventive suspension.
In August, Aumentado, however, was reinstated to his post. He maintained his innocence.
Then President Fidel V. Ramos issued Proclamation 1037 on July 1, 1997 and designated the Chocolate Hills as a national geological monument and protected landscape.
BI agents intercept
The
intercepted a Chinese man wanted for human trafficking and prostitution. Du Shuizhong was intercepted at the NAIA Terminal 1 as he was about to board an Air China flight to Chengdu, China. Du was not allowed to leave and was instead arrested and brought to the BI detention facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City. Du will be sent back to China pursuant to a deportation order that the BI board of commissioners issued against him in November last year for being an undesirable alien. He was also placed on the blacklist
facility until the implementation of his deportation. Vito Barcelo
PhilHealth unveils SAM package for children
By Ralph Harvey Rirao
PHILHEALTH offi cially has launched a new benefits package called Outpatient Therapeutic Care for Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM). The said benefit package aims to combat the malnutrition of Filipino children at their developmental stage. PhilHealth announced the launch together with the Department of Health (DOH) and UNICEF.
This benefit package covers Anthropometrics and Clinical Assessment, counseling, and follow-up visits, among others.
The beneficiaries will receive P7,500 for zero to less than 6-month-old children, and P17,000 for 6 to 60-month-old children.
UNICEF Philippines Representative Oyunsaikhan Dendevnorov noted that this initiative is the world’s first-ever Severe Acute Malnutrition primary care and social health financing package to be funded through a national health insurance agency.
CHR dismisses false online claims on mpox
THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday strongly reminded the public to actively work toward eliminating any stigma associated with the spread of the mpox virus.
“To effectively address public health concerns, it is crucial to remove any form of discrimination and bias in order to prevent further harm to affected individuals and communities. Our collective response should be rooted in the values of empathy, solidarity and respect for the dignity of every human being, particularly for vulnerable groups,” it said. The reminder stemmed from the persistence of numerous online posts claiming that mpox is a sexually transmitted disease, which has led to the stigmatization of the LGBTQI community, it added. While the World Health Organization has
confirmed that close contact amongst individuals, including intimate encounters, is a viable mode of virus transmission, circulating public warnings that focus solely on sexually active individuals can create dangerous misconceptions, falsely suggesting that mpox is exclusively a sexually transmitted disease, it cited.
“The Commission stresses that mpox is not a disease of any particular gender identity, sexual orientation, or specific community, nor is it confined to specific activities. Such stigmatizing narratives deflect attention from the core public health concern and distort facts, which only perpetuates misinformation and fear. This results in discouraging people from
PhilHealth chief Emmanuel Ledesma meanwhile highlighted the negative effect of SAM on the cognitive development of children.
“Severely malnourished children of school age develop substantial cognitive deficits that result in grade repetition. Even if they survive into adulthood, they are far less likely to be employed in the formal sector, and of nowhere earning potential, conditions that further perpetuate the cycle, for their children,” Ledesma said.
Rio N. Araja
RELIEF PACKS. Volunteers from the O ces of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and Tingog Partylist Reps. Yedda K. Romualdez and Jude Acidre prepare relief packs containing essential goods as part of the ongoing relief e orts for the victims of Typhoon Julian.
STREET MURAL. An Ilonggo visual artist turns a vandalized wall into a mural depicting nature with 3D e ects. The artwork can be found at the Sambag bike lane in Jaro, Iloilo City. Arnold Almacen
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
OPINION
Dark
sky
communities
crucial to fight vs. climate change
HILLSIDE, Colorado — Perched nearly 7,900 feet above sea level is a dark sky community in the adjoining town of Westcliffe, one of 34 across the United States recognized by the Arizona-based International Dark-Sky Association or IDA.
The IDA is the leading organization in the world that works to combat light pollution and has been granting Dark Sky designations to parks, reserves, sanctuaries, and communities since 1998.
The Westcliffe dark sky community, which averages 2.7 degrees Celsius to 22.7 degrees Celsius temperature during the fall or autumn, is just one of seven in Colorado, known for rocky mountains, great plains, high plains, mesas, canyons, plateaus, rivers and desert lands.
One weekend in September, we had the privilege to be in this dark sky community during the three-day annual activity of the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Southern Colorado, Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Northern Colorado, and the Colorado State Philippine American Chamber of Commerce.
The event, which tackled strategic planning for 2025; board governance, ethics and leadership training; and team building, was held at the Hillside Colorado Vacation Cottages managed by spouses Myron and Rizza Edelman.
Facilitators were Ayana Garcia, Boards and Commissions Program Administrator for the City of Colorado Springs, and May Joyce Vertido, a nurse and a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the US Army.
Relatively young, Westcliffe was recognized as an International Dark Sky Community only nine years ago, in March 2015, by the IDA, along with its neighboring town of Silver Cliff.
The IDA awards this designation to communities that reduce light pollution and enforce outdoor lighting ordinances, according to officials.
Westcliffe and Silver Cliff raised funds and replaced their street and government lighting with lower light polluting fixtures.
Both communities are in the Wet Mountain Valley, between the West Mountain and Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges, an area in the mainland noted for its spectacular views of the Milky Way, something we experienced while we were here.
It is during fall or autumn when stargazing can be, as residents say, a celebration of the return of dark nights, with first rate constellations, planets and galaxies to see in the Colorado sky.
Westcliffe during that weekend, with no light pollution and pristine skies, allowed visitors like us to see uncount-
able thousands of stars -- the stars being bright including the smaller ones visible to the naked eye.
Westcliffe and Silver Cliff, according to our hosts, are among the highest in the world, known for their views of the Milky Way, even from the Main Street.
The Smokey Jack Observatory in Westcliff has a powerful telescope and hosts star parties in the summer, official sources say. Why are dark sky communities germinating following the first certification of Flagstaff, Arizona as the First International Dark Sky City in 2001?
Climatologists say dark sky communities are important for climate change because they help lessen light pollution which can raise several negative consequences.
They help lessen light pollution.
According to experts, light pollution can disrupt the body’s natural 24-hour cycle, which can lead to sleep disorders like insomnia and delayed sleep-phase syndrome.
It can also impact the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate metabolism and immune responses.
Experts add outdoor lighting in the United States consumes a lot of energy, equivalent to driving 49 million passenger vehicles per year and switching to LED lights in every home could save about 38 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year.
Light pollution can also affect animals active at night, like bats, owls and frogs which can make it more difficult for them to hunt, feed and mate.
Light pollution can also interfere, experts say, with the natural rhythms of the night, which can impact the health of the ecosystem.
According to www.darksky.org, the worldwide Dark-Sky Movement aims to reduce light pollution and preserve the night sky with the IDA working to protect communities from light pollution through outreach, advocacy and conservation.
There are those who ask: Is it really worth having dark sky communities?
Many climatologists say yes, and argue the conservation benefits include reducing deaths of migratory birds, turtles and other species who interact with the natural night sky, support the pollination of plants and the recovery of plant and tree species.
Sanity walk at the Quad for the Quad (comm)
By Rolando Ng III
THESE past few weeks, headlines of an investigating committee set by the Philippine House of Representatives have dominated the news cycle. The Quad committee, composed of Reps. Ace Barbers (Dangerous Drugs), Stephen Paduano (Public Accounts), Dan Fernandez (Public Order) and Benny Abante (Human Rights), are trying to ferret out the truth in the link between POGOs and the war on drugs to the administration of Rodrigo Duterte. Resource persons have attended to testify, defend themselves, or even lie in front of the body. So far, the congressional Quad has spurred out of control. Yet, somehow, they maintain the same level of mundane intensity as to the Senate’s investigation. Criticisms aimed at them for berating the female suspects are unavoidable. Observers could not help but question the intent of the committee’s supposed mission of uncovering hidden gems inside Guo’s Pandora box. One professor, in particular, wrote in his post if the entire inquiry was made ‘in aid of legislation’? Everything is made possible, even on the worst terms, in the spur of that momentary heat – of the burning desire to
(mis)perform their sworn jobs in the committee.
For now, let me try and cool the heat to a place not so far away from here. I know a certain “Quad” that is far from intense.
Maybe the Honorables can step away from the heated hearings even for a day.
In the sprawling, giant lands located in the heart of Metro Manila’s busy district, you can find a complex that offers its own kind of sophistication. The shops, all authentic, even foreign. The food, palatable. The price, worthy for the alta sociedad. Imbued with warm colors that denote its luxury, you could try and find this as a paradise of its own.
You take a drive of a place from, say, Quezon City. It would normally take you half an hour to have your journey done from the north down to the south’s premier commercial center. You see a tower cov-
MANY people enjoy a good spy story. But not when the story is a true one, and the setting is in their country, and what are at stake are their sovereignty and security.
Spy stories
Guo is mentioned as a fellow spy.
There was a dossier on her with a photo and documents showing she was born in China to a Chinese mother. Her listed address was the local headquarters of the Communist Party. Interviewed online from prison, She advised Guo -- who She said dedicated her life to the Ministry of State Security like him –that China cannot be trusted.
—“—
This is what the now-detained former Mayor Alice Guo is insisting: that the Al Jazeera documentary that aired last week is patently false.
Guo is not the star of the documentary produced by 101 East and aired over Al Jazeera. The 25-minute film centers around She Zhijiang, a businessman who had fallen out of favor with the Chinese government and who is now in prison in Thailand. The businessman claims he was recruited by China’s Ministry of State Secrets. In fact, introductions were made in the Philippines. He also provided video clips of his attendance to a state dinner hosted in Malacañang. He, under a Cambodian name, was invited by the Palace by then-President Rodrigo Duterte at the time to the banquet with Chinese Premier Xi Jinping in attendance.
This was during happier times and before the Chinese government thought She knew too much about the Belt and Road projects and the activities of Chinese officials involved in them.
Why are we spending time and resources on this saga?
“If you don’t want to be eliminated, you should tell the world the truth,” he told her. When Guo learned of this, she denied she was a spy and even threatened to charge She and the network.
Riveting spy claims notwithstanding, what does this mean for us Filipinos? Why are we even devoting so much time and resources to this saga when there are so many other basic things that need our attention?
If only Guo talked a long time ago, then the public would have had an idea of the extent of the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator activities in the country, how they were able to skirt regulations, bring in thousands of foreigners, and conduct their opera-
WITH the scheduled parliamentary elections in 2025, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) takes a significant step in self-rule after decades of armed conflict between government forces and Muslim secessionist rebels.
But a little bit of history is necessary here. The creation of the BARMM in January 2019 is the end-result of the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro (CAB) or the final peace agreement signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front on March 27, 2014.
The comprehensive agreement involved two tracks: the first on normalization, the second on the political system. Under the normalization track, the MILF would turn over their firearms to a third party to be selected by the rebels and the Philippine government, and decommission its armed wing, the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF).
Under the political track, the government would work towards the creation of a new political entity known as the Bangsamoro to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) created in 1989. The late former President Benigno Aquino III had described the ARMM as a “failed experiment.”
Power sharing is the key component of the autonomy concept. The ARMM charter had only listed 14 areas which were outside the powers of the regional legislature. Under the CAB, the parties listed 81 powers categorized into reserved for the central government, exclusive to the Bangsamoro, and concurrent with or shared by the two sides for power sharing. Of the 81 powers, 58 were devolved to the Bangsamoro, nine were reserved to the central government, and 14 were shared. The Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro had four annexes covering Transitional Arrangements and Modalities, Revenue Genera-
ered with greenish glass panels with a ho-
tel that has created its own familiarity. A small park, where one could presumably sit, is also located adjacent to the 4-level shopping heaven. One thing, then, is for sure – you have now reached the Quad.
As you enter the place, you are greeted by the cold breeze with the smell of bread coming from the first bakery you see. Imbued with materialities filled with class, you can now find the luxury of time to look for an ATM, grab your card, and dial the passcode to access the money in the form of designer bags and shoes, a new iPhone or a subscription plan, or anything else that denotes your style. Try to take a few walks, play a soothing jazz tune in your head, and pretty
tions. We would have known how they were able to get away with criminal activities such as violence, trafficking, kidnapping, inhumane labor conditions. Most importantly, we would have learned which officials enabled, encouraged, and profited from these activities.
Accusations of espionage are even more relevant today given the consistent incursions of the Chinese into what has been established by international law as belonging to the Philippines. The Chinese insist otherwise and twist the narrative to show it is Filipinos who are encroaching into what is theirs. Who knows what other valuable information they could get out of people they have so conveniently planted among the populace? Who knows how much damage officials who have allowed all these to happen have already brought?
It is easy to get caught up in fantastic claims and melodramatic exchanges happening in the supposedly august halls of Congress. But we should always return to the “So what?” of things. When we do this, it becomes clear what the silence, the contempt, and evasion are telling us. The buck does not stop with a former small-town mayor from Tarlac, and we should not stop until we know how much higher, how much deeper, and how much wider this goes, so that we can clamor for appropriate action.
Bangsamoro’s big leap
tion and Wealth Sharing, Power Sharing and Normalization, and the Addendum on Bangsamoro Waters.
Bangsamoro is going full-throttle with its first parliamentary elections amid the recent Supreme Court ruling that upheld the constitutionality of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) but excluded Sulu from the region.
The Supreme Court’s decision reaffirms the legal foundation of BARMM’s autonomy and parliamentary system, including the election of the Chief Minister. However, the court ruled that Sulu, which voted against joining BARMM in a 2019 plebiscite, should be excluded from the region.
Power sharing is the key component of the autonomy concept.
“We are grateful for the Supreme Court’s affirmation of BARMM’s autonomous government and its parliamentary structure,” BARMM Cabinet Secretary and spokesperson Mohammad Asnin Pendatun said during our latest Saturday News Forum in Quezon City.
“But we are deeply saddened and concerned by the ruling that excludes Sulu from BARMM,” he added.
The 2019 plebiscite saw 54 percent of Sulu residents voting against joining the ARMM. After five years of deliberation, the High Court sided with the decision of the majority of Sulu residents.
“This ruling has significant implications for BARMM,” Pendatun explained. Hence, the BARMM plans to file a motion for leave to intervene and a motion for partial reconsideration regarding SC’s recent ruling. So why was Sulu excluded from BAR-
sure, you could try to sense a soothing relief from the hustle of these hearings. And yes, don’t pin the blame on me if this doesn’t work, not even for a nudge! The sophistication of this Quad is transmitted into the kind of luxury its current name now possesses. Their alternatives to the usual fare offered by its rivals tend to be a notch higher, though they try to stay in the middle. Apart from its shops, the scenery located in its interior tries to keep its high taste despite its changes. The Quad of then has transformed itself into an abode of luxury now in the name of Glorietta.
This kind of posh living is what the Quad Committee needs for their own relaxation.
MM? In 2018, Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan II questioned before the SC the legality of the BOL, arguing that ARMM cannot be abolished without amending the Constitution.
“As Sulu rejected the Bangsamoro Organic Law in the plebiscite, it was wrong to include the province in BARMM,” SC spokesperson Camille Ting said recently. Pendatun argued that Sulu is very important in the BARMM: “We cannot speak about the Bangsamoro identity, the Bangsamoro struggle or the Bangsamoro narrative without the participation of Sulu.” The Bangsamoro Cabinet Secretary, however, pointed out that the future bodes well for the future of autonomy under a new political entity in southern Philippines.
Pendatun disclosed that BARMM has already attracted P4 billion in investments so far this year, reflecting a significant improvement in the region’s peace and order situation. In fact, an upscale resort would soon be established in TawiTawi that is expected to enhance tourism in the province.
Ample proof that the Bangsamoro is making steady progress in economic development is the substantial reduction in the poverty rate in the region from 52.3 percent in 2018 to 23.2 percent at present, according to the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
“This is a historic achievement for BARMM. For the first time, we are no longer the poorest region in the country. However, the 23 percent poverty rate still highlights the challenges we need to address moving forward,” according to the BARMM official. While the peace process has effectively addressed vertical conflicts involving revolutionary groups and security forces, Pendatun acknowledged that horizontal conflicts, such as clan wars (rido) and criminal activities still pose challenges. (Email: ernhil@ yahoo.com)
I would humbly ask each and every one of them to step away from the heated microphones, even for a day. I would like to take them out of the session hall and into an extensive walk inside and within Glorietta’s borders. Heck, I could even try and serenade them with an “Ipanema”! This, I believe, could help them ease back into their own sanity before they spar again with their heated exchange. If this sanity walk barely helps at all, they could just take the rollercoaster ride and scream in their seats.
Rolando Ng III tries to cure his haywire from the news beat by writing essays beyond the headlines. You may reach him at ngrolando2003@yahoo.com.
IN BRIEF
CAAP opens expanded Laguindingan Airport
THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has officially opened the newly expanded passenger terminal at Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental, substantially increasing its passenger capacity by 72 percent .
The expansion has increased the predeparture area’s capacity from 500 to 860 passengers, allowing the airport to better accommodate the approximately two million passengers it handles annually.
This expansion positions the airport as the third busiest CAAP-operated airport in 2023 and the sixth busiest in the country as of 2019.
The project, which began in February 2024, included a 720-square-meter expansion utilizing a modular construction system, providing design flexibility, swift construction, cost efficiency, and environmental friendliness.
CAAP director general Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo emphasized the commitment to completing the project within the year, while also prioritizing sustainability. Joel E. Zurbano
Go vows to set up more health centers in Isabela
SENATOR Christopher Lawrence Go has vowed to boost healthcare delivery services in Isabela by setting up more Super Health Centers (SHC) in this northern Luzon province.
Go made the pledge as he visited another SHC facility being constructed in Barangay Mambabanga in conjunction with the celebration of the Bato Art Festival and the 75th founding anniversary of Luna town last Sept. 28. The SHC program was one of Go’s initiatives as chairman of the Senate Committee on Health.
The senator highlighted his dedication to establishing 18 SHCs in Isabela with a view to expanding the number of residents who can access government health services.
One SHC has been built in Mallig, Isabela, and another in Echague, bringing state healthcare services closer to underserved communities in the province. Along with Vice Gov. Faustino Dy III, Luna Mayor Adrian Leandro Tio, Vice Mayor Lelamen Soingco, and Mallig Mayor Jose Philip Calderon, Go also presented gift packets
Navy ship undergoes repair, maintenance
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) calls on all Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) householdbeneficiaries with pregnant members or children up to two years old to update their profile information in preparation for the rollout of the First 1000 Days (F1KD) conditional cash grant next year.
By Rex Espiritu
THE Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU) has honored three individuals and one local government unit (LGU) with the “Gawad Kapayapaan” awards during National Peace Consciousness Month.
The recipients were Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Prof. Miriam Coronel Ferrer, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace negotiator Ghazali Jaafar, and the municipal government of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte.
In his remarks Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito Galvez emphasized the importance of “collective and lifelong commitments to peace.”
He highlighted the significant role of women, citing Ferrer’s achievements in peace negotiations.
Pangandaman expressed her deep personal connection to peace efforts in Mindanao, saying that the quest for peace is for future generations.
“We must remember that National Peace Consciousness Month is not only an annual celebration. Most importantly, it is a clarion call to all that the pursuit of peace must be an inclusive, integrated, and collective effort,” Galvez said.
“Just as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said, peace is not a day-long, week-long, or month-long commitment. It is the commitment of a lifetime,” he added.
Galvez also recognized the invaluable role women leaders play in the country’s peace-building initiatives.
gram manager and director of 4Ps.
In a statement, Gabuya said the 4Ps household-beneficiaries are encouraged to update their contact information through their city or municipal links by filling out the Beneficiary Updating System (BUS) Form 5.
“The cooperation from the 4Ps households is important as this will help the 4Ps management in identifying possible and eligible recipients of conditional cash grants,” Gabuya pointed out.
Aside from filling out the BUS Form 5, the 4Ps household-beneficiaries will need to submit documentary requirements including the birth certificate or local civil registry of the child, and either the medical certificate or health certificate of the
pregnant member issued by their respective Rural Health Unit (RHU) or Barangay Health Station (BHS).
“This effort is part of our preparation for the implementation of the F1KD grants which is set for January next year, provided that appropriate funding will be allocated through the approval of the special provision in the General Appropriations Act (GAA),” Gabuya said.
The F1KD conditional cash grant is an additional financial support under the 4Ps which was earlier proposed by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian to President Ferdinand Marcos. It aims to provide assistance to households during the critical first 1,000 days of child development.
QUEZON City celebrates its 85th founding anniversary with a unique sales promotion project for the benefits of local consumers, in partnership with key business and retail establishments.
Mayor Joy Belmonte said the threeday event dubbed “QC Day Sale,” to be held Oct. 11 to 13, is a collaboration with the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Quezon City (PCCI-
QC), and major mall operators.
“This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, generate business opportunities, and support local enterprises. Additionally, this is a gift of the city government for our QCitizens in connection with the 85th year of our city,” Belmonte said.
The event also aims to underscore the business sector’s’ role as a key player in the city’s journey toward progress, as in-
dicated by the theme for this year’s anniversary, “Tayo ang QC,” the city government said in a statement.
To align with the anniversary celebration, Belmonte said participating businesses were encouraged to offer discounts or generous deals to consumers.
“Businesses also have the flexibility to propose other creative offers, including freebies or other value-added incentives,” the mayor stated.
Filipino nation to be aware of the truth about the CPPNPA-NDF,” which is designated as a terrorist group under the Anti-Terrorism Act,” he added. Torres highlighted the NTF-ELCAC’s ongoing awareness campaigns that expose the “deceptive tactics” employed by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA). He expressed hopes that the candidates would renounce armed struggle and embrace peaceful solutions.
AFTER THE BANQUET. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez together with Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre; Raymund Romualdez, president of the Liga ng mga Barangay of Tacloban City; mayors and councilors of the 1st
Noveno
QC TURNS 85. Quezon City celebrates its 85th founding anniversary with a trailblazing three-day QC Day Sale offering discounted retail prizes and other special treats for customers, in collaboration with the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Quezon City (PCCI-QC), and leading mall operators.
NAVY SHIP UNDERGOES
Israel launches ‘intense’ ground o ensive in Lebanon
BEIRUT—The Israeli army said its troops were locked in fierce clashes in Lebanon after launching a ground offensive Tuesday, escalating the conflict after a week of air strikes that killed hundreds.
The ground assault came as Israel targeted south Beirut, Damascus and Gaza, despite international calls for restraint to avoid a regional conflagration.
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant warned the fight was far from over, even after a massive strike on Beirut killed Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah on Friday. His death dealt a heavy blow to the Iran-backed group.
The Israeli military said its forces, backed by air strikes and artillery, carried out “targeted ground raids” on Hezbollah positions in settlements along the border.
It said the targets posed an “immediate
threat” to northern Israeli communities, and warned Lebanese civilians against driving in a southern zone along the border.
“Intense fighting is taking place in southern Lebanon,” army spokesman Avichay Adraee said on Telegram. “For your personal safety, we ask you not to travel by vehicles from the north to the south of the Litani River.”
The military had earlier declared a military zone on parts of its border with Lebanon. It said projectiles were fired from Lebanon into the northern Israeli towns of Avivim and Metula.
Hezbollah said it had twice targeted “a movement of enemy soldiers in Metula
Manila Standard TODAY Republic of the Philippines ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION Exquadra Tower, 1 Jade Avenue Ortigas Center, Pasig City
IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION FOR THE AUTHORITY TO DEVELOP AND OWN A DEDICATED POINTTO-POINT LIMITED TRANSMISSION FACILITIES TO CONNECT THE 14.160 MW UPPER TAFT HYDROELECTRIC POWER PLANT TO THE VISAYAS GRID OF THE NATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES (NGCP), WITH PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY
VENTURES, INC. (IVI), Applicants.
NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:
Notice is hereby given that on 31 July 2024, Iraya Ventures, Inc. (IVI) filed, through the Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS) portal, an Application dated 15 May 2024, seeking the Commission’s approval for authority to develop and own a dedicated point-to-point limited transmission facilities to connect the 14.160 MW Upper Taft Hydroelectric Power Plant to the Visayas Grid of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), with prayer for provisional authority.
Thereafter, on 17 September 2024, IVI filed its Motion to Amend Application and Reset Hearing, dated 16 September 2024, attaching therewith its Amended Application 1 dated 16 September 2024, alleging that, upon review, IVI realized that the submitted Application was incomplete due to the absence of material and technical information. In view thereof, IVI prayed for the Commission to admit and consider the attached Amended Application and for the resetting of the scheduled hearings in the instant case. The pertinent allegations in the said Amended Application are hereunder quoted, as follows:
1. Applicant is a domestic corporation registered and existing under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines with principal place of business at 126 5th Street, B. Serrano Between 11th and 12th Avenue, Grace Park, Caloocan City.
2. Applicant may be served the processes of this Honorable Commission through the undersigned counsel at Bernardo Placido Chan & Lasam Law Offices, Units 2303 & 2304, 139 Corporate Center, 139 Valero Street, Salcedo Village, 1227 Makati City. A copy of the Secretary’s Certificate evidencing the authority granted is attached hereto as ANNEX “H”.
3. Applicant is primarily engaged in the business of building, constructing, generating, operating, and maintaining a power plant derived from coal, fossil fuel,
with artillery shells”.
Lebanon’s official National News Agency said an Israeli air strike Tuesday on Ain alHelweh camp killed six people, including Hassan Maqdah, the son of Mounir Maqdah who heads the Lebanese branch of Palestinian group Fatah’s armed wing, the Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades.
It also reported Israeli shelling of border settlements, killing 10 people from the same family, including at least two children, in Daoudieh village.
As Israel announced its ground raids, Syria’s official news agency SANA said the country’s air defence systems had intercepted three rounds of strikes in the Damascus area.
State television said anchor Safaa Ahmad was killed “in the Israeli aggression” on Damascus, while SANA reported three civilians killed and nine others wounded. AFP
17.
testing and commissioning with load, is expected to be completed in approximately 6 months. A copy of the Gantt Chart for the development of the Dedicated Facility Project is attached hereto as ANNEX “L“.
18. Moreover, A System Impact Study (SIS) was conducted, confirming that the connection of Iraya Ventures, Inc.’s UTHEPP through the Dedicated Facility Project is deemed acceptable. A copy of the System Impact Study (SIS) by NGCP is attached hereto as ANNEX “O“.
19. Applicant has likewise engaged the services of Power Systems Research & Consultancy Group (PSRC) to conduct the Interconnection Facilities Study (Facilities Study) for the UTHEPP ensuring that the installed equipment meets the recommendations of the System Impact Study (SIS) and that the Dedicated Facility Project aligns with the Philippine Grid Code. A copy of Facilities Study is attached hereto and made an integral part hereof as ANNEX “N“.
20. For its part, NGCP through its Final Report enclosed in its Letter dated 13 September 2023 notified the Applicant, among other matters, that: The proposed connection of the 14.1 MW Upper Taft Hydroelectric Power Plant Project to the Visayas Grid through tap connection along NGCP’s Paranas–Nato 69 kV Transmission Line is acceptable. A copy of NGCP’s Final Report and Letter dated 13 September 2023 is attached hereto as ANNEX “P“.
21. In light of the foregoing, the Applicant respectfully requests the approval of this Honorable Commission of the connection of the subject Dedicated Facility Project to the Visayas Grid, as proposed under the SIS, deeming it the most feasible option for linking UTHEPP.
22.
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI,
RANDY M. CALUAG,
EDGARD HILARIO,
PH women padel bets reach top 4 in Asia-Africa world tilt
By Randy Caluag
THE Philippine women’s padel team made a significant breakthrough by finishing in the Top 4 at the Asia-Africa Padel World Qualifier held recently in Kuwait.
The team, composed of Jessica Lucas, Alessa Marie Belbes, Rovy Conle Castillo, Anna Christine Patrimonio, Michelle Rose Dickson, and captain Jessica Agra, delivered an impressive performance with two wins and one loss in the group stage before defeating Oman in the quarterfinals.
Though they fell to a more seasoned Egyptian squad in the semifinals, the team’s fourthplace finish marked a remarkable
Blazers
blow 26-point lead, but nip Stags in overtime
Games Wednesday (Filoil EcoOil Arena)
12 p.m.- Mapua vs AU
2:30 p.m.- LPU vs UPHSD
COLLEGE of St. Benilde went to Tony Ynot in overtime as it survived an upset-minded San Sebastian College, 96-94, on Tuesday to stay at the helm in NCAA Season 100 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.
Ynot scored five of his team-high 23 points in OT and spiked it with eight rebounds and eight assists as the Blazers kept their stranglehold on the top spot with a 6-1 record. But CSB coach Charles Tiu wasn’t happy with the win, saying they have no business blowing a mammoth 26-point lead.
“I’m not happy at all. This is probably, maybe the worst in my life,” said a livid Tiu. “I don’t want to say anything because I’m mad, I’m really mad. That’s an embarrassment.”
Truly, the Blazers just totally imploded after erecting a 67-41 edge in the third quarter—their biggest of the game.
CSB almost got buried by the SSCR avalanche that was created by the duo of Rafael Are and Raymart Escobido as the latter extinguished that once almost insurmountable deficit and sent the game into an extra fiveminute period.
There, the Stags finally grabbed the lead, 94-92, and a chance to topple the Blazers on a thunderous triple by Escobido with a little over a minute to go. It proved to be SSC-R’s last show of force as Justine Sanchez scored on a bucket to knot it at 94 and Jhomel Ancheta, back from a one-game suspension, drove for a layup with six seconds to go that proved to be the dagger.
Escobido found himself open where he made a triple a few plays earlier but hesitated on this one and completely missed it.
achievement for Philippine padel, which only began organizing competitive play in 2021.
“What an incredible journey for the Philippine Padel team. Thank you @philippinepadel for giving us the opportunity to represent the Philippines,” said Agra, who is currently ranked as the top professional player in Asia.
A lawyer, Agra recently rose to the No. 1 spot in the Asia Pacific Padel Tour (APPT) women’s rankings after
securing two titles on the Asian tour.
The fourth-place finish out of 13 competing nations is a testament to the rapid development of the sport in the Philippines. Along the way, the team defeated both Thailand and Senegal with identical 2-1 scores.
Despite a group-stage loss to Australia, they bounced back by overcoming Oman in the quarterfinals.
“Thank you, Coach Martin @martinxacademy, for guiding us every step of the way. And of course, thank you to my teammates for making this an unforgettable experience! We will come back stronger,” Agra added.
Japan, Egypt, and Australia were among the earliest Asian nations to adopt padel, beginning in 2013, 2014, and 2016, respectively.
In contrast, the Philippines is one of the youngest countries to em-
brace the sport.
“The Philippines is the youngest in the sport. Yet, our Philippine Padel team has displayed exceptional progress and determination, now competing for a coveted spot in the World Padel Championships through the Asia-Africa Qualifiers,” read a post from the Philippine Padel Federation’s official page.
The federation praised the team’s journey, noting that their success reflects the rapid growth of padel in the Philippines.
“This journey reflects the growth and development of padel in the country and the team’s heart, grit, and Filipino spirit driving their excellence on the international stage. Let’s unite in support as they continue to push boundaries and make history.”
SMART/MVPSF Nat’l Inter-School
FPJ Cup Visayas Edition: Shoot for
BACOLOD—The FPJ Cup Visayas Edition: Shoot for a Cause successfully brought together participants in a shooting competition aimed at supporting the Hero Foundation and providing assistance to the children of fallen men and women in uniform.
The event showcased the solidarity between local security groups, politicians, and community leaders who rallied behind FPJ Panday Bayanihan and their advocacy for the families of our national heroes.
“I’d like to thank all those who participated in today’s event. We were able to raise funds and raise awareness. The goal is to give back to our men and women in uniform. I think we were able to do that,” said Brian Poe Llamanzares, the chairman of FPJ Panday Bayanihan.
The participants, composed of professionals and enthusiasts alike, took part in the event to raise much-needed funds for Hero Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing educational support for the children of soldiers who gave their lives in service to the country.
This Shoot for a Cause is part of FPJ Panday Bayanihan’s ongoing
Golf’s future stars clash as JPGT Match Play unwraps
THE culmination of a five-month nationwide series comes down to a thrilling series of duels as the ICTSI Junior PGT National Match Play Finals kicks off Wednesday at The Country Club in Laguna.
Sixty-two of the country’s top junior golfers, having emerged from grueling elimination rounds in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, including those who vied in multi-series campaigns, will compete for top honors and the prestige of being the first Junior PGT Match Play champions. Featuring four age groups – 8-9, 10-12, 13-15, and 16-18 –for both boys and girls, this competition promises excitement with the unpredictable nature of match play bringing dramatic head-tohead battles. Stroke play competition begins today to determine player rankings for the knockout stages, with the 13-15 and 16-18 categories immediately proceeding to their match play duels this afternoon. The quarterfinals for all age groups are scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday, Oct. 3), followed by the semifinals, finals and third-place playoffs on Friday (Oct. 4).
Stroke play tiebreaks will be decided by scores on the last nine holes (10-18), with further scrutiny on the final six holes (13-18) and the final three holes (16-18). For match play, any tie will lead to a hole-by-hole playoff. Each competitor is eager to make their mark, ensuring a fierce showdown of skill, strategy and mental toughness among these emerging young talents in the series organized by Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc. and sponsored by ICTSI.
taekwondo lures 2,000 jins
SOME 2,000 taekwondo jins from various schools and colleges all over the country will slug it out in the 2024 SMART/MVPSF National Inter-School Taekwondo Championships on Oct. 5-6 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
The Philippine Taekwondo Association said the two-day event will be divided into five divisions—seniors, juniors, cadet, grade school and toddler—in both male and female participants.
Backed by MILO, the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee, the event
participants go up against each other during a past staging of
has lured the veritable who’s who in the collegiate leagues including those in Visayas and Mindanao schools. They are expected to challenge the bigwigs from UAAP and NCAA schools like La Salle, Ateneo, University of the Philippines, and Emilio Aguinaldo College. Also fancied to figure prominently are multi-titled taekwondo jins from National University, St. Paul Pasig, and Diliman Preparatory School.
The PTA is looking for another weekend of heated action as most participants are hoping to become national team members in the future. Elimination rounds start at 9 a.m. while the opening ceremony is set at 1 p.m. that will be highlighted by a performance from the Philippine Demonstration Team.
a Cause backs Hero Foundation
John Rey Oro
Young
the taekwondo tourney.
Participants
organizers of the FPJ Cup Visayas Edition are shown
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE overnight parking rate for passenger cars and commercial vehicles at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) quadrupled to P1,200 from P300 under the policy of the private concessionaire.
New NAIA Infra Corp., the new operator of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), implemented the higher parking fees Tuesday to support maintenance and upgrades of the airport’s facilities. The new hourly rates for the parking are as P50 for first two hours, P25 for every succeeding hour and P1,200 for overnight parking for cars; P20 for the first two hours, P10 for every succeeding hour and P480 for overnight
parking for motorcycles; and P100 for the first two hours, P50 for every succeeding hour and P2,400 for overnight parking for buses.
“These adjustments are necessary to ensure continued maintenance and improvements of our facilities,”
NNIC general manager Angelitio Alvarez said.
“We appreciate your understanding and support as we implement these changes,” he said.
The company confirmed that it significantly increased the overnight parking fees to discourage the use of NAIA as a long-term parking facility.
NNIC said the previous parking rates unintentionally encouraged misuse of the airport’s limited parking spaces.
BSP: September Inflation likely eased to 2% on stable food prices
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Tuesday September inflation likely settled within a range of 2 percent to 2.8 percent.
NAIA operator hikes overnight parking rate by 300% to P1,200 2% to 2.8% 3.3% 3.6% BSP inflation forecast for September
The projection is lower than the 3.3-percent actual inflation rate in August and within the government’s target range of 2 percent to 4 percent for the year.
“Negative base effects along with lower prices of food commodities including rice, meat and vegetables as well as lower domestic oil prices, and
the appreciation of the peso are the primary sources of downward price pressures for the month,” the BSP said.
“These are expected to offset the higher prices of fish and fruits and electricity rates. Going forward, the Monetary Board will continue to take a measured approach in ensuring price stability conducive
to balanced and sustainable growth of the economy and employment,” it said.
Robert Dan Roses, chief economist at Security Bank, also predicted that inflation in September would ease to 2.5 percent on slower food prices.
“However, potential risks from oil and typhoons may keep the BSP cautious about interest rate cuts,” Roces said.
“The central bank is likely to opt for a gradual approach, with 25-basis point reductions in October and December,” he said.
BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr.
earlier hinted the central bank may cut the overnight borrowing rate by 50 basis points in the next two policy meetings.
The BSP’s Monetary Board in its August meeting slashed its overnight borrowing rate by 25 basis points to 6.25 percent.
The interest rates on the overnight deposit and lending facilities were also reduced to 5.75 percent and 6.75 percent, respectively.
The US Federal Reserve earlier cut its interest rates by 50 basis points amid falling inflation in the world’s largest economy.
Actual inflation in August Average inflation in 8 months
PH stocks bounce back on positive economic data
By Jenniffer B. Austria
points, or 1.48 percent, to close at 7,380.32, while the broader all-shares index gained 44.68 points, or 1.14 percent, to finish at 3,963.36. “The spillovers from Wall Street amid the rate cues from Fed chair Jerome Powell helped the market in its rise,” Philstocks Financial Inc. research head Japhet Tantiangco said. “Expectations that inflation last September has further slowed down also contributed to today’s rally.”
The market recovered most of previous day’s technical correction as investors welcomed the latest Philippine manufacturing data, which improved to two-year highs. Value turnover reached P6.04 billion, above the year-to-date average of P5.9 billion. Foreign investors were net buyers, with net inflows reaching P463.82 million.
All indices ended in the green, led by property which climbed 2.36 percent and holding firms which rose 1.75 percent. Advancers edged decliners, 124 to 73.
Globe Telecom was the top index gainer, rising by 5.54 percent to P2,400, while Wilcon Depot Inc. was at the bottom, declining by 1.09 percent to P18.10.
Meanwhile, Chinese stocks surged on Monday after officials unveiled further economic stimulus measures, while Wall Street indices concluded a buoyant quarter with new records. But a profit-warning from auto giant Stellantis and from Britain’s Aston Martin sent shivers through the industry, adding to the temptation to lock in gains on the final trading session of the third quarter.
Shanghai’s stock market jumped more than eight percent—its best day since 2008—while Hong Kong briefly leapt around four percent, a day before Chinese markets shut for the Golden Week holiday. With AFP
ASEAN solar company investing P10b in PH
By Alena Mae S. Flores
N Green Roof Asia Pte. Ltd. (CNGRA), a leading solar rooftop platform in ASEAN, plans to develop large-scale solar farm projects and integrated battery energy storage system (BESS) projects in the Philippines, with investments reaching P10 billion over the next two years.
“Building on our extensive experience in solar rooftops, we are excited to enter the utility-scale market in the Philippines. We have developed a robust pipeline of high-impact projects and plan to begin construction on our first project by mid-2025,” CNGRA chief executive Rob Santler said in a statement.
The company is looking at a pipeline of 300 megawatts of ground-
the Sea, based in Cagayan de Oro, brings a legacy of seafood excellence and sustainability to their partnership with SM Supermarkets. Founded over two decades ago by Christine Biongcog and her husband, the company has expanded from a local supplier to a significant player in the seafood market, thanks to SM’s support and collaboration.
mounted solar and commercial and industrial (C&I) rooftop projects, which are expected to be developed and constructed within the next two years. The generation capacity for BESS portfolio is still being studied.
CNGRA is a joint-venture of Climate Fund Managers (CFM)-Climate Investor One and Norfund, for the investment, construction and opera-
tion of rooftop solar C&I in Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines. It is headquartered in Singapore.
CFM, a blended finance investment manager, and Norfund, the Norwegian government’s investment fund for developing countries, established CNGRA as a joint venture company in 2021.
CNGRA plans to put up a 20-MW solar project with investments of P600 million for its first project in Hermosa, Bataan.
CNGRA also announced its partnership with Solana Renewable Energy Holdings (Solana), marking a crucial step in its journey to become Southeast Asia’s leading C&I solar platform, bringing renewable energy to all industries and building a greener world for generations to come.
SM MARKETS, a chain of food retail stores under the SM Group, said it strives to integrate sustainable practices with its partners.
“At SM, our goal is to be a catalyst for responsible development in the communities we serve. We are continually finding ways to be more sustainable in our operations and bring our partners along on this journey,” said SM Supermarket president Jojo Tagbo. Some partners who started their sustainable efforts are Sanicare, Royal Breadhaus and Under the Sea. From local supplier to seafood leader, Under the Sea prioritizes sustainable fishing practices to protect marine ecosystems Under the Sea, based in Cagayan de Oro, brings
a legacy of seafood excellence and sustainability to their partnership with SM Supermarkets.
Founded over two decades ago by Christine Biongcog and her husband, the company expanded from a local supplier to a significant player in the seafood market, thanks to SM’s support and collaboration.
Biongcog recognizes the vulnerability of her industry to climate change.
Through collaboration with government agencies like the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Under the Sea has embraced innovative fishing practices such as Norwegian fish cages and sustainable methods for raising tilapia and bangus.
Golden MV buying 397 hectares in Villar City for P5.2b
GOLDEN MV Holdings, Inc., the death care and residential business of the Villar family, reported Tuesday it will acquire three three-privately held companies for about P5.2 billion. The deal gives Golden MV access to 396.88 hectares of prime land in Villar City, a major development covering 3,500 hectares across Metro Manila and parts of Cavite, the company said in a disclosure to the stock exchange.
It said its board of directors approved the acquisition of all the issued and outstanding capital stock of Althorp Land Holdings Inc., Chalgrove Properties Inc. and Los Valores Corp. from Fine Properties, Inc. and Hollinger Holdings Corp. These companies own nearly 400 hectares of prime land in the Villar City development.
Villar City aims to be a central hub for Metro Manila, combining economic, lifestyle, cultural, and leisure activities to redefine urban living.
Golden MV strengthens its role in this important project with the acquisition.
Plans for Villar City include two golf courses, a church, an events arena, a university and an entertainment complex. The development is expected to attract residents and businesses, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. Villar City will be vital for future investments in the area.
Under the plan, Golden MV will focus on developing Villar City, while Villar’s property firm Vista Land & Lifescapes Inc. will continue to develop its own land bank through Vista Estates across the country. The teamwork will ensure that both companies contribute to sustainable urban growth. They aim to meet current urban needs and prepare for the future, improving the quality of life for residents. Jenniffer B. Austria
“Working closely with the government allows us to stay informed about the latest advancements in sustainable fishing practices, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing yield,” Biongcog said.
Biongcog’s commitment extends to personally overseeing fishing practices, often joining fisherfolks to ensure they adhere to responsible methods. This hands-on approach not only guarantees the quality of their seafood but also fosters a culture of accountability and respect for marine ecosystems. Meanwhile, Sanicare is a popular hygiene product founded by Renato Sio in 1996. Its mission is to offer high-quality, chemical-free products to consumers.
ABOITIZ Land, Inc., the real estate division of the Aboitiz Group, on Tuesday announced the appointment of Rafael Fernandez de Mesa as its new chief executive effective Jan. 1, 2025. He will succeed David Rafael who is retiring after five years of leadership.
Fernandez de Mesa’s appointment signifies the return of Aboitiz family leadership. As a fifth-generation family member, he will oversee the land and residential business unit, while continuing his role as head of economic estates at Aboitiz InfraCapital, bringing extensive industry experience.
He has been instrumental in the success of Aboitiz InfraCapital’s award-winning Economic Estates, which cover nearly 2,000 hectares across Batangas, Cebu and Tarlac, host over 250 global companies and have attracted over P155 billion in investments, creating more than 100,000 jobs. With 10 of his 15 years at Aboitiz Group spent at Aboitiz Land, Fernandez de Mesa held several leadership roles, including first vice president of operations. Before joining Aboitiz, he worked in banking at BBVA and Banco Santander in the US.
B. Austria
Jenniffer
CN Green Roof Asia (CNGRA), a leading solar rooftop platform from Vietnam, enters the Philippines with strategic partnerships. Attending the milestone event at their office in Makati City on Sept. 6, 2024 are (from left) Robert van der Hum, deputy head of mission, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; Geir Michalsen, deputy head of mission, Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila; Nathan Schmidt, regional head of investments for Asia, Climate Fund Managers; Rob Santler, chief executive, CNGRA; Steve Rawles, CNGRA chief operating officer; Vorakris Sivakriskul, investment manager, Norfund; Marco Gemmer, head of cooperation, EU Delegation of the Philippines; and Giancarlo Valerio, president, Solana Renewable Energy Corp.
Under
Aboitiz Land CEO Rafael Fernandez de Mesa
BUSINESS
Meralco: GNPower Dinginin submits lowest rate for 400 MW
By Alena Mae S. Flores
POWER retailer Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) said Tuesday it secured the lowest rate for its 400-megawatt (MW) mid-merit supply requirement from Aboitiz Power Corp.-led GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD).
“Just like in the past, this CSP has fulfilled the objective of securing the needed power supply for customers at the least cost possible through an open and transparent process,” Meralco bids and awards committee-power
PH hosting global launch of Mitsubishi’s seven-seater SUV
MITSUBISHI Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) is set to make history by hosting the world premiere of its latest concept vehicle—a 7-seater SUV at the 9th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) 2024.
“The decision to have the world premiere in the Philippines is a testament to the country’s growing importance within Mitsubishi Motors’ global operations,” said MMPC president and chief executive Ritsu Imaeda.
He said the new concept reflects Mitsubishi Motors’ vision of delivering top-quality vehicles to the ASEAN region, “and we are thrilled that this will be showcased for the first time in the Philippines.”
The historic reveal will be the first time Mitsubishi Motors chose the Philippines for a global debut, underscoring the country’s growing importance within the company’s global strategy.
The 7-seater SUV concept shows Mitsubishi Motors’ commitment to providing fulfilling mobility lifestyles that cater to the adventurous spirit of drivers and passengers.
Its unveiling in the Philippines reinforces the brand’s dedication to ASEAN drivers and highlights MMPC’s pivotal role in Mitsubishi Motors’ global operations.
The new SUV concept seamlessly blends the brand’s heritage of craftsmanship with its dedication to developing vehicles that cater to the unique demands of the market.
Othel V. Campos
supply agreement (BAC-PSA) chairman Lawrence Fernandez said. Meralco declared GNPD’s offer of P7.6816 per kilowatt-hour total levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for the entire 400-MW requirement as the best bid dur-
ing the bid opening for the competitive selection process (CSP) Tuesday.
GNPD runs a 1,336-MW coal-fired power plant in Mariveles, Bataan.
Three generation companies submitted their qualification documents, technical proposal and bid price including GNPD. All the offers were lower than the P8.0585 per kWh reserve price for LCOE set for the bidding.
Meralco declared as possible next best bids the offer of San Miguel Corp. power companies. These are the offers of Sual Power Inc., which submitted P7.7416 per kWh for 300-MW of supply and Masinloc Power Co. Ltd which
submitted a P7.8567-per-kWh bid for 200 MW of the supply requirement.
All submissions passed the criteria contained in bidding documents and pre-qualification evaluation, according to Meralco’s BAC-PSA.
The BAC-PSA will conduct a postqualification evaluation prior to issuance of notice of award and execution of the power supply agreement (PSA) with the winning bidder.
CSP observers, which included consumer groups, also witnessed the submission of bids. The proceedings were also streamed live on Meralco’s YouTube page.
TOWNHALL MEETING. Prime Waste Solutions Pampanga Inc. (PWS Pampanga) holds a town hall meeting with Clark Freeport
5 dairy stock farms seen completed this year—NDA
By Othel V. Campos
THE National Dairy Authority (NDA) said it expects to complete five new stock farms by end-2024, boosting the country’s nearly 80,000 dairy cattle herd and enhancing the production of local milk.
“The NDA will be aggressively importing cattle for our stock farms, allowing the herd to multiply under our care. The acclimatized offspring of these dairy cattle will then be distributed to our local dairy farmers,” said NDA administrator Marcus Antonius Andaya. The strategy is supported by encouraging figures from the first half of 2024, where milk production saw a 15-percent increase, reaching 16,020 metric tons or equivalent to 21 percent of the country’s total liquid milk supply.
Expanding the country’s dairy herd is expected to support an increase in milk consumption to 1.8 million metric tons (MT) by 2029. Andaya emphasized the need for significant investments in increasing the number of animals on the milk line to achieve milk self-sufficiency.
“Progress doesn’t happen in isolation. The future of the Philippine Dairy Industry depends on the collaboration between all stakeholders, and the NDA stands ready to assist and lead this endeavor,” he said. Industry experts led by Vina Milk’s By Choi reported a study of the Philippine dairy sector at the 2nd Richmade Dairy Cattle Congress on Sept. 27, 2024, showing a 10.2-percent growth rate in the market in 2022.
Meralco, Metro Pacific raise shareholdings in PLDT-controlled DigiCo
By Darwin G. Amojelar
MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco) and Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) raised their stakes in a digital company owned by the MVP Group of Manuel Pangilinan.
PLDT Inc. said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange Tuesday Meralco and MPIC each entered into separate subscription agreements
with DigiCo for the subscription of 570 million additional common shares in DigiCo.
As a result of these additional subscriptions, DigiCo is now 45 percentowned by PLDT, down from 60 percent, 27.5 percent-owned by Meralco from 20 percent, and 27.5 percentowned by MPIC from 20 percent.
DigiCo earlier acquired 56,105 common shares of Bayad from Cor-
ASSISTANCE. Rene Abadilla, BDO Unibank senior assistant vice president and Overseas Filipino Program unit head, expresses appreciation for a chance to assist returning OFWs embark on entrepreneurship. BDO Unibank and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) teamed up to help OFWs achieve financial freedom through the successful launch of the Balik Kabayan Bazaar, a livelihood fair aimed at supporting OFWs who have returned back to the country to pursue entrepreneurship.
Filinvest REIT expands lease agreement with EXL Service
By Jenniffer B. Austria
is delighted to support EXL’s growth and expansion within Northgate Cyberzone. The sustained trust and confidence of EXL in our properties over the years reflect our dedication to delivering premium office spaces and fostering long-term partnerships,” said Maricel BrionLirio, president and chief executive of FILRT.
The partnership with EXL demon-
strates FILRT’s commitment to providing sustainable, Grade A quality office spaces and tenant services.
EXL is a New York-based leading data analytics and digital operations and solutions company, with exposure in industries such as insurance, healthcare, banking and retail, among others.
“As we mark our 25th anniversary, we are thrilled to see our business grow while staying aligned with our sustainability goals, ensuring that our success benefits both our company and the environment,” said Jaideep Anil Pradhan, EXL’s senior vice president and geography head for Philippines and Colombia.
porate Information Solutions Inc. for P320 million. CIS is a company controlled by Meralco.
DigiCo’s acquisition of Bayad will enable DigiCo to leverage its expertise and resources to support Bayad’s growth trajectory while exploring and unlocking synergies in the companies led by Pangilinan such as PLDT Inc., Meralco and MPIC.
The acquisition makes available an
additional payment gateway for the use of DigiCo, a subsidiary of PLDT. DigiCo also executed an agreement to acquire 100 percent of Multipay, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Multisys Technologies Corp., whose strong relationship with various billers and digital payment channels is expected to complement and add value to an integrated payment platform’s capabilities.
Five Chinese companies keen on expanding operations in PH
THE Board of Investments (BOI) said Tuesday at least five companies are keen on investing or expanding their operations in the Philippines following a successful six-day investment promotion roadshow in China.
Companies with stakes in electric vehicles (EVs), consumer goods manufacturing, infrastructure, green metals and mining met with the Philippine trade delegation in Xiamen. Trade Undersecretary and BOI managing head Ceferino Rodolfo led the Philippine delegation, which concluded its roadshow, positioning the Philippines as the regional hub for smart and sustainability-driven manufacturing and services.
“We conveyed to the investors that our goal is to transform the Philippine economy to enter a virtuous cycle of sustained economic growth,” he said.
The roadshow, which covered Beijing, Hong Kong and Xiamen, documented the Philippines’ participation in the 2024 China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT).
The roundtable meeting in Beijing gathered the DTI’s strategic partners, including the ASEAN-China Centre (ACC), the Power Battery Applications Committee of China Industrial Association of Power Sources (CIAPS-PBA), China Overseas Development Association (CODA), and the RCEP Industry Cooperation Committee (RICC).
The BOI and Philippine Trade and Investment Centers (PTICs) in China engaged with 21 companies in various sectors such as renewable energy equipment manufacturing, electric vehicle manufacturing, and agribusiness. Othel V. Campos
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong (fourth from left)
IMI announces restructuring of global operations
By Jenniffer B. Austria
INTEGRATED Micro-Electronics
Inc. (IMI), one of the leading worldwide providers of electronics manufacturing services (EMS) in the world owned by Ayala Corp., said it is restructuring its global operations to improve profitability and efficiency.
IMI said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Tuesday it would close its prototyping and manufacturing activities in IMI USA by end of the year. It will also dissolve its offices in Japan and Malaysia and will also downsize its office in Singapore.
The company said IMI USA would enter into a pivotal partnership with XLR8 Corp., a California-based firm renowned for its prototyping expertise. Under the new agreement, IMI will channel prototyping needs of selected customers to XLR8, while XLR8 will transition mass production projects to IMI as its preferred manufacturing partner.
IMI USA will also be moving mass production to IMI’s facilities in North America, Europe and Asia.
“IMI’s extensive sales team, strategically positioned across various regions, will continue to address opportunities in Japan, eliminating the need for a physical office and reducing overhead costs,” the company said.
The restructuring comes as the global electronics manufacturing services (EMS) industry continue to face a slowdown.
IMI is a top provider of electronics manufacturing solutions. It specializes in high-quality electronics for industries with long product life cycles. IMI operates 19 manufacturing plants in nine countries and provides engineering and support services worldwide.
From its 19 manufacturing plants across nine different countries, the company provides engineering, manufacturing, and support and fulfillment capabilities to diverse industries globally.
542% to nearly $2b
By Darwin G. Amojelar
NET inflows of foreign portfolio investments or hot money reached $1.998.04 billion in the first eight months of 2024, larger by 542.9 percent than the $310.77-million net inflows seen in the same period last year, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said Tuesday.
The eight-month data have yet to capture the large inflows recorded in September when the stock market surged after the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas reduced its policy interest rates and reserve requirement ratio of major banks. Data from the BSP showed that foreign investments registered through authorized agent banks in August recorded net inflows of $533.95 million, although the figure was lower than $1.383.25-bil-
lion net inflows noted in July.
Registered investments in August, considered as a “ghost month” went down by 43.7 percent, to $1.370.72 billion from $2.432.57 billion in July.
The BSP said 51.2 percent of registered investments went to Philippine Stock Exchange-listed securities ($701.83 million), with the remaining 48.8 percent parked in peso government securities ($668.89 million).
Investments mostly came from
Singapore; the United States; the United Kingdom; Luxembourg; and Malaysia with combined share to total at 81.5 percent.
The $836.78 million gross outflows in August were also lower by 20.3 percent compared to the gross outflows of $1.049.31 billion in July.
The US remained the top destination of outflows, receiving $436.33 million (or 52.1 percent) of total outward remittances.
The BSP said that on a year-onyear basis, registered investments in August declined 4.8 percent from $1.440.59 billion recorded in August 2023, while gross outflows decreased by 35 percent from $1.287 billion.
The $533.95 million net inflows in August 2024, however, increased 247.9 percent from
IN BRIEF
“The Filipino manufacturing sector showed a significant improvement at the end of the third quarter, as indicated by the latest PMI data. Overall new orders increased at a much faster pace, despite demand for Filipino goods taking dropping notably in international markets. Consequently, manufacturers boosted production at a strong rate,” said Maryam Baluch, economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence. A robust expansion in new orders drove a matching uptick in production volumes, which in turn, supported hiring and greater purchasing activity. Stronger performance of the sector also boosted confidence in the year-ahead outlook for output which strengthened to a four-month high, S&P Global said. It said while cost pressures ticked up, the rates of increase in input prices and output charges were weaker than their respective long-run averages. However, goods producers also indicated growing challenges during the latest survey period, amid sharply deteriorating supplier performance and a notable downtick in new export orders.
Foreign currency loans declined to $15.6b in June
PLDT Inc. wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) and Maya, the country’s leading digital bank, warned the public against the rising threat of “text hijacking” scams.
These fraudulent messages mimic trusted companies like Smart and Maya, tricking unsuspecting users into clicking on malicious links or sharing personal information, the group said.
Smart and Maya said they never send SMS with links requesting login credentials, personal information or account verification. “If you receive such a message, it is likely a text-hijacking attempt,” the two companies said.
Text hijacking, also known as “spoofing”, involves scammers using fake cell
$153.46-million net inflows recorded in the same period last year.
Registration of inward foreign investments delegated to authorized agent banks by the BSP is optional under the rules on foreign exchange (FX) transactions.
“It is required only if the investor or its representative will purchase FX from authorized agent banks and/or their subsidiary/affiliate foreign exchange corporations for repatriation of capital and remittance of earnings that accrue on the registered investment,” the BSP said.
“Without such registration, the foreign investor can still repatriate capital and remit earnings on its investment but the FX will have to be sourced outside the banking system,” it said.
sites to collect mobile numbers within a targeted area. They push messages directly to subscribers’ devices, bypassing legitimate service providers like Smart. Scammers also use illegal software to manipulate the sender’s name, making the messages appear as though they come from a trusted source. These messages often contain suspicious links, offering fake promotions like vouchers or prompting users to update their accounts.
“We are committed to protecting our customers by continuously raising awareness about these scams and educating them on how to stay safe,” said Cathy Yang, first vice president and head of group corporate communications at PLDT and Smart. Darwin G. Amojelar
MAYA-INVESTA TIEUP. Investing in funds is now easier, thanks to a new collaboration between Maya, a leading digital banking app in the Philippines and Investa, a social financial platform. Investa, now available as the second provider within Maya Funds, brings a new dimension to the investment landscape. It provides Filipinos access to a diverse range of twenty-seven mutual funds from industry leaders such as ATRAM, BPI Investment Management Inc., Sunlife and
SPOTLIGHT
The power of compassion in pet adoption
Metrobank Foundation honors Filipino artists
THE Metrobank Foundation (MBFI) celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) program with a night of appreciation for its partners and stakeholders. The MADE Legacy Night, held at The M (also known as Metropolitan Museum of Manila) in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, brought together former awardees and judges, program partners, and members of the art community to enjoy this significant milestone.
The evening commenced with a heartfelt welcome address by MBFI
President Aniceto M. Sobrepeña. He paid tribute to the late Dr. George S.K. Ty, founder of Metrobank and the Metrobank Foundation, recognizing him as an art patron and the visionary behind MADE. “He [Dr. Ty] knew that art could open our eyes to deeper truths and guide us all in building a stronger, more connected nation. Now, forty years later, it’s clear just how true that was,” said Sobrepeña. The program honored past MADE judges including artist and art critic Cid Reyes, curator and museum director Ricky Francisco, architect Philip Recto and arts administrator, educator, and entrepreneur Dindin Araneta. Renowned MADE awardees and exhibiting artists were also recognized such as Raffy Napay, Pow Marin, Kathleen Dagum, Wilhelmina Garcia, Jowee Aguinaldo, Architect Jonathan Dangue, Anton Del Castilo, Roldan Ventura, Alfredo Esquilo, Elmer Borlongan, and many others gracing the event.
Philippines to join 48th SSEAYP Youth Program
THE National Youth Commission (NYC) has announced the launch of the “Ship for Southeast Asia and Japanese Youth Program” (SSEAYP). This cultural exchange initiative, set for November 4 to December 11, 2024, aims to foster leadership development and international collaboration between the youth of ASEAN countries and Japan. Launched in 1974, SSEAYP focuses on building goodwill and understanding among the youth of the region, enhancing cooperation on global issues like mental health, climate change, disaster recovery, and more.
This year, 15 Filipino youth leaders and one national leader from various regions will represent the Philippines. Dubbed Batch “Hiraya,” these young leaders will engage in workshops and discussions that promote cross-cultural understanding and tackle pressing societal concerns. They will join other Southeast Asian and Japanese delegates aboard the MS Nippon Maru, visiting various ASEAN countries.
SSEAYP empowers young leaders to engage in capacity-building activities, equipping them with skills to positively impact their communities. The program
promotes leadership by addressing challenges such as global environmental issues, economic growth, and youth diplomacy, with the ultimate goal of fostering a new generation of culturally aware, socially responsible leaders.
This year’s Filipino contingent, Batch Hiraya, aspires to be a beacon of hope, championing the themes of optimism, inclusivity, and camaraderie.
The group is seeking mentorship, collaboration, and partnerships to further their mission. For more information, visit bit.ly/SupportHiraya or contact sseaypph48@gmail.com. Jasper Valdez
THE Philippine contemporary art scene unfolds in countless hues. On its sixteenth year, ManilART ’24 embraces the theme “Prisms and Mosaics” to celebrate this multifaceted nature, uniting diverse artistic expressions into a harmonious display.
Here’s what to expect at this year’s fair: Plugged into Fernalia: the Gray Areas of Art and AI
The ubiquity of AI calls for pause and reflection: What does it mean to be an artist in this new landscape?
Plugged into Fernalia: Art in the Age of AI, a special exhibit curated by Gromyko Semper, seeks to explore how artistry can thrive in an AI-driven world and what it could mean for
By Ma. Katrina Mikaela Manubay
PEOPLE who are fortunate enough to own and care for pets know how comforting these creatures can be when going through tough times. Adopting a pet is a selfless act, a sacrifice made as a gesture of love. It’s not about expecting something in return or feeling forced to reciprocate.
Since the pandemic, the number of abandoned and homeless animals has been increasing day by day. These pets are either abandoned on the streets, left alone in empty houses, or surrendered to animal pounds.
Mitch, a solo rescuer for eight years, said that, if a genie appeared before her, she would definitely wish for a more inclusive and less cruel place for the community cats and dogs. “Sa other countries nga, freeroaming lang sila around the neighborhood. May foods at water na naka-prepare for them. Bakit sa atin hindi p’wede?”
Mitch barely remembers the last time she went on a vacation or the last time she bought something expensive for herself. Thus, just like any solo rescuer who would relate, she does not complain.
The increasing number of stray animals also came from owners’ refusal to spay and neuter their pets. Senate Bill 2458, which seeks to address animal welfare issues, including overpopulation, and other animal welfare programs aims to amend the purpose of Republic Act 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act.
While some animals are taken in by shelters or kind individuals, others suffer in pounds where they are left to starve and may even resort to cannibalism due to extreme hunger.
Despite the increase in animal cruelty by irresponsible pet owners, animal welfare organizations and solo rescuers are working hard to promote the importance of not only adopting pets but also providing them with genuine care and love.
Fur-parents’ love for their pets goes beyond superficial admiration for their cute appearance. It involves feeding, fundraising, and building homes for strays, dedicating much of their time to ensuring their well-being.
Responsible parenting goes hand in hand with compassion and kindness, as Mitch said, “I did not see myself stopping anytime soon; they [pets] are my source of happiness.”
the future of art. Through a unique curatorial approach, artists were invited to respond to specific prompts, offering their interpretations of AI’s impact on their craft.
A story unfolds in the exhibit’s four thematic sections: “Origins and Inspirations” retrospects on the initial promise brought by AI to the artistic landscape; “Ethics and Appropriation” raises the ever-growing concerns of artists and the use of creative content by AI companies; “Human vs. Machine” compares AI-generated art with human-made works; and “Future Visions” imagines the path forward, the future of creativity in an AI-dominated world.
tor, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a grand event attended by its valued partners and esteemed guests last September 17. Established in 1974, CIVIC has evolved from a spare parts business to selling used equipment and becoming a dealer of major international brands such as Volvo,
of giving thanks,” Mr. Ronald Yao said during the conference.
CIVIC has undergone significant changes over the decades, most notably in 1995, and its mission is encapsulated in its tagline, “Where service comes first.” Looking forward, CIVIC is embracing sustainability and innovation, aiming for projects such as the digitalization of systems, and transitioning to electric equipment and hybrid service vehicles.
“When we say sustainability initiatives, we have set our targets. By the year 2030, we aim to achieve 70% reduction of our net carbon emission,” Ms. Mary Grace Lim-Ramos shared. Despite encountering challenges, including an increasingly competitive market with over 20 new players, CIVIC remains confident in its future, attributing its success to the foundational values of hard work and customer care.
“…with how we work and with how we got our foundation, the values we got from our first generation are our edge; the value of hard work, the value of taking care of our people, and taking care of our customers. We have quality equipment, we have quality people, and we go beyond partnership. When we say go beyond partnership, we do not just consider you as partners or clients, we are your friends and we are one call away”, Mr. Ronald Yao elaborated.
Taguig high school students on a walking tour at ManilART
A TOAST TO THE NEW ERA OF THE METROBANK ART & DESIGN EXCELLENCE. (From left to right) Foundation UniversityDumaguete Fine Arts Department Head and curator Sandra Palomar, arts administrator and educator Dindin Araneta, Knowledge Channel President and Executive Director Rina Lopez, Cultural Center of the Philippines President Kaye Tinga, National Commission for Culture and the Arts Chairman Ino Manalo, MBFI President Aniceto Sobrepena, MBFI Executive Vice President Philip Dy, The M Associate Director for Exhibition Programs and Operations Ian Gines, Former MADE judge Ar. Philip Recto, Ayala Foundation President Tony Lambino, and artist and art critic Cid Reyes.
A JOURNEY OF COMPASSION AND SECOND CHANCES. Mitch welcomes her rescued cats into the cozy corners of her home, which she has lovingly transformed into a safe haven for her feline companions.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
Diego Gutierrez bares his heart in breakup anthem ‘Huling Sayaw’
HEARTBREAK offers a deep well of inspiration that enables an artist to craft songs that are not only deeply personal but also relatable, as many people connect with themes of love, grief, and healing.
Case in point, singer-songwriter Diego Gutierrez releases a new single, “Huling Sayaw,” a song inspired by the end of his seven-year relationship last year.
The single, which drops today, Oct. 2, on major streaming platforms, will have a launch party on Oct. 4 at Mansion Makati City. The release coincides with the birthday of his sister, actress Janine Gutierrez, who turns 35.
Diego, 27, opened up about the breakup, clarifying that no third party was involved. “I’m in a better place now after the breakup,” he shared, adding that his family knew about the relationship, though he chose not to make it public on social media.
When asked if his ex-girlfriend knew about the song, he said, “Maybe when she hears it, she’ll realize.”
Diego did not formally study music but took voice lessons. “I had voice lessons and would like to continue them. I studied integrated marketing in college at the University of Asia and the Pacific,” he said listing John Mayer, Shawn Mendes, and The 1975 as his musical influences.
“The song reflects the moment when it was time to end our relationship. Things were slowly fading. You could see it in how we looked at each other. We preferred being alone,” Diego added.
He explained that “Huling Sayaw” came from a desire to share one last dance before going separate ways. The track was the first he wrote after the breakup, following months of creative block.
“It took me a while to start writing again. I was dealing with so many emotions I didn’t know how
ABS-CBN’s popular mystery-thriller series Senior High and its sequel High Street are now available to viewers in the United States and Canada. Full episodes of both shows can be accessed for free on the ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube channel. The series, led by Andrea Brillantes, gained significant attention for tackling socially relevant issues and mental health during its run on primetime television. Senior High and High Street also brought to prominence the tandems of “RoxChie” (Xyriel Manabat and Elijah Canlas) and “TimPoch” (Zaijian Jaranilla and Miggy Jimenez). Senior High follows Sky (Brillantes) as she seeks justice for the mysterious death of her twin sister Luna. The show garnered one billion views on TikTok and over 38 million digital views on YouTube, Facebook, and iWantTFC in its first two weeks.
The sequel, High Street, sees Sky and her friends navigating adulthood as they become the targets of a group seeking revenge.
Viewers in the U.S. and Canada can also watch other ABS-CBN series, including Can’t Buy Me Love and Linlang, along with condensed versions of High Street and Pamilya Sagrado, featuring weekly highlights.
ABS-CBN continues to expand its international reach by offering its programs through YouTube,
to process them. For three to four months, I couldn’t write,” he recalled.
Diego said that creating the song helped him deal with the heartbreak. “I don’t usually share too much about my problems. When I do, it’s filtered. Writing became an outlet to express my feelings,” he explained.
He also spoke about the support from his family, who always remind him to stay confident in his career. “They tell me to keep going until I make it.”
“My grandmother, Mamita (Pilita Corrales), said she still feels nervous when she performs, so it’s normal. Just own it. Sometimes I wonder if I’m ready for performances, but she reminds me, ‘You’re there for a reason,’ and that helps,” he said.
Diego admitted that following in the footsteps of his successful family members comes with pressure, but he’s determined to achieve success in his own right.
Diego is also currently working on new singles and hopes to release an EP next year.
‘Senior High,’ ‘High Street’ now streaming for free on YouTube in US, Canada
ensuring that audiences worldwide stay connected. Senior High and High Street can be watched on the ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube channel, which has 49.7 million subscribers and is the top YouTube channel in Southeast Asia for media and entertainment.
BRITISH rock band Coldplay’s upcoming tour of India has triggered a police investigation and dismayed fans after scalpers bought up cheap tickets to resell online for more than $1,000 apiece.
Thousands of music fans tried and failed to buy tickets for three concerts scheduled in financial hub Mumbai next January, sold by popular Indian online ticket portal BookMyShow.
All three shows sold out in minutes, and those who missed out were infuriated when they saw $70 (6,000-rupee) tickets appear on resale websites at vastly inflated prices.
“The tickets are being sold at 10 times, 20 times, 30 times the price that is being sold on the website itself,” student Anna Abraham, 19, told AFP
“I wouldn’t feel good about it myself if I knew
that I paid for something 30 times more than what I could have paid for.”
Local media reports said BookMyShow’s chief operating officer was questioned by police Monday after a complaint brought by Mumbai lawyer Amit Vyas, who claimed the vendor was working with “black marketeers” to make an extra windfall on ticket sales.
“I checked with nearly 100 people who I know are regulars at concerts, none of them had gotten a ticket,” Vyas said, according to the Indian Express newspaper.
“This made me suspicious. I then decided to approach the police as I knew that something was amiss.”
BookMyShow issued a statement after the public backlash began last week, saying it had “no association” with unauthorized ticket selling.
“Scalping and black marketing of tickets is strictly condemned and punishable by law in India and BookMyShow vehemently opposes this practice,” the company said.
Controversies surrounding tickets for major international musical or sporting events are not new. US megastar Taylor Swift lashed out at Ticketmaster in 2022 following fan anger over sales to concerts staged for her globe-spanning The Eras Tour
The debacle sparked debate over the Ticketmaster´s privileged position in the industry amid fan complaints of
Gutierrez’s musical influences are John Mayer, Shawn Mendez, and The 1975
hidden fees, rampant ticket scalping and limited tickets due to presales. AFP
Coldplay frontman Chris Martin
‘Senior High’ and ‘High Street’ stars Xyriel Manabat (left) and Andrea Brillantes
Singer-songwriter Diego Gutierrez drew inspiration from the end of his seven-year relationship for his latest single ‘Huling Sayaw’
Diego Gutierrez during an interview with the press
LIFE & SHOWBIZ
Romina Batino’s creative spin
ROMINA Batino, a Communication Arts graduate, first worked in her family’s legal practice in the mid-1990s. To express a long-held creative spark, she founded 10 Twelve Ventures in 2019, offering weekend workshops to build a community of lifelong creative learners while continuing her managerial work. However, the pandemic changed everything. Romina and her husband moved to the U.S., and 10 Twelve was put on hold. As businesses began
By Abigail Adriatico
THE field of culture and the arts in the Philippines has seen many prominent figures who have greatly contributed to its growth and development throughout the decades. With their work in various fields such as performing arts, literature, visual arts, cultural research, and many others, these individuals brought not only recognition for themselves as paragons of skill and perseverance in their craft but also pride for every Filipino whose lives have been impacted by their work.
Understanding the need to recognize such individuals and their continuous effort in the growth of their respective fields, the Cultural Center of the Philippines has given the prestigious Gawad CCP Para sa Sining award to several notable figures for their crafts.
In his welcoming remarks, CCP Chairman Jaime C. Laya pointed out how the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining awards served as a reminder that art is not only for the talented and the elite but for Filipinos of all walks of life.
“As we applaud the lifetime achievement of our honorees, we also present to the talented young
reopening, she volunteered at an art gallery in Ohio, immersing herself in a community of passionate creatives, which further fueled her creativity. The pandemic had shown her how quickly life can change, prompting her to pursue a path she had previously dismissed as frivolous. From organizing behind the scenes to helping others express their creativity, Romina stepped into the spotlight as a fullfledged artist just two months before turning 50. By then, Romina had already chosen an unusual subject for her art: the surface of a windshield covered in watery soap suds, reflecting the lights inside a carwash. Frequent trips to the carwash allowed her to find beauty in these ordinary sights, transforming them into vibrant photographs that resemble paintings. She playfully called the technique behind these captures Roamistry
In November 2021, Romina submitted her photographs to a gallery in Ohio, which unexpectedly accepted all of her pieces. Encouraged, she continued participating in juried and non-juried shows. Her art gained significant recognition when Boomer Gallery in London invited her to become a resident artist, displaying her Roamistry works for a full year. Romina continues to exhibit her art not only in the U.S. and the U.K. but also locally. Her twenty-second and most recent exhibit, PlayGround, was a two-woman show with international sculptor and artist Ovvian Castrillo at UniqueBisyo Pasig in April 2024. In 2023, one of her photos appeared in a collage of artworks on an NYC billboard, and more were featured in a book of poems titled Let It Be Real. This January, the same Ohio gallery where she volunteered featured her as its Artist of the Month.
Esteemed British art critic Anthony Fawcett praised the deeply poetic nature of her photographs, highlighting her ability to “transform the most humble of subject matter” into vibrant, multicolored works. Fawcett emphasized that Romina’s work reflects a spirit of restless inquiry, underscoring the bright future she holds as an artist. Her ability to find magic in the mundane mirrors
‘Her
THE award-winning Filipino-Chinese film Her Locket will have its US premiere at the San Diego Filipino Film Festival this week. In the family drama, a Chinese woman, who is suffering from dementia, gradually recalls memories from her past with the help of a locket necklace.
Her Locket recently bagged Best Film, Best Director for J.E. Tiglao, Best Actress for Rebecca Chuaunsu, Best Supporting Actress for Elora Españo, Best Screenplay for Tiglao and Maze Miranda, Best Cinematography for Jag Concepcion, Best Production Design for James Arvin Rosendal, and Best Acting Ensemble at the 2024 Sinag Maynila Independent Film Festival. This is Tiglao’s second feature film, after winning Best Director for Metamorphosis at the 2019 Cinema One Originals. Chuaunsu also won Best Actress awards at the Wu Wei International Film Festival in Taiwan and the Festival International du
her creative spirit, which began to bloom during her office career and was nurtured during a time of uncertainty. Romina’s art is proof that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions, with each piece revealing that captivating beauty can be found in the most unexpected places. For more information about Romina’s art, visit https://roamingromina.art.
A night of recognition for culture and the arts
Film Transsaharien de Zagora in Morocco.
Chuaunsu plays the role of Jewel Ouyang, a senior citizen who was once the daughter of a wealthy Chinese businessman until she suffered from dementia and lost everything. The old woman now lives with her lawyer son, Kyle Nicolas (Boo Gabunada). Kyle hires a caregiver, Teresa Firmante (Españo), who desires to undergo rhinoplasty to escape her present life.
An old locket that contains Jewel’s photo with her parents, and her brother, Magnus, will remove the cloud of forgetfulness and free her memories of her tenuous relationship with her family.
“Two women want to do something about their memories. One wants to get it back. The other one wants to forget. Both came from experiences of pain and loss. Both a victim of patriarchy under two familial cultures of Chinese and Filipino. However, this is also a restorative story of women who choose not to be silenced, who choose to hold the
reminder to all of us that art is for everyone, that appreciation and patronage are needed for artists and the arts to flourish,” said Laya.
“It is a long journey and the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining is a small, early step,” he added.
The winners for this year’s awards include Marilyn Gamboa for her work in cultural research, the Loboc Children’s Choir for enriching the culture of their region, Jose F. Lacaba for his work in literature, Julie Lluch for her work in the visual arts, Gino Gonzales for his designs and other related arts, Gener Caringal for his work in dance, Lea Salonga for her work in the theatrical arts, Joey Ayala for his work in music, and Pete Lacaba Jr. for his work in the field of literature.
Meanwhile, Oscar Yatco, Edgardo J. Angara, Zanaida Tantoco, and Mario O’Hara were also given recognition for their works posthumously, with their awards received by Renato Lucas, Anna Rosalyn Manalang Angara, Anton Huang, and Denise and Heber O’Hara, respectively.
As the winners took to the stage to receive their awards, many took the time to gaze at their accolades and appreciate how their certificates and medals serve as a great reminder of how their years of tremendous effort in perfecting their crafts did not go unnoticed and that their work holds great importance to society.
Some also took the recognition as an opportunity to remind people that the arts have always served
as an important medium in continuing discussions and raising awareness about notable social issues throughout history, one of them being Lacaba, who has been recognized for his literary works that spoke of societal issues, especially during the Martial Law era.
“I am calling to my fellow patrons of the arts to continue to speak, to care, and to fight. Let us remember the lessons of history and fight for our futures. Never again. Never forget,” he said in his speech.
Meanwhile, some recognized that the accolade they received served as a reminder that they should continue to hone their craft not only for themselves and their respective mediums but also for their fellow countrymen who share their pride.
“This is wonderful to receive but it certainly does not mean that the career ends. It only means that we must continue as artists in truth and in discipline to continue to create, to continue to entertain, and hopefully, in the service of our country, make everybody happy,” said Salonga in her speech.
Apart from the awards ceremony, the event also featured a commemorative exhibition revolving around the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining 2024 honorees and their astounding life’s work and the stories behind their craft.
The Gawad CCP Para sa Sining 2024 awards was held last Sept. 20 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.
line. My intention is to portray an empowering tale of feminism in front of a backdrop of conservative milieu,” Tiglao shared.
Produced by Rebecca Chuaunsu Film Production in cooperation with Rebelde Films, Her Locket also stars Sophie Ng as the young Jewel, Benedict Cua as the young Magnus, Tommy Alejandrino as the young Jewel’s love interest, Francis Mata as the old Magnus, Rolando Inocencio, Jian Myco Repolles, Zoey Villamangca, Norman Ong, Nellie Ang, Angela Kate Villarin, Ashlee Mickaela Factor, Matthew Seaver Choy, Roberto Uy Kieng, George See, Banaue Miclat, and Chuaunsu’s real-life lawyer Kesterson Kua Her Locket will be shown on Oct. 3 at AMC Plaza Bonita, Westfield, San Diego, California, USA. The couple, Gawad Urian awardee Benito Salvador Bautista and Emma Francisco Bautista, serves as Executive
and
Director
Programming Director, respectively, of the San Diego Filipino Film
Filipinos models of what they can become and indeed, models that they can better; a challenge to leaders and government and industry to value return on investment on the arts and creative industries; a
Festival. They both co-founded the filmfest with Dr. Ben Camacho
Actress Rebecca Chuaunsu plays a Chinese woman who is suffering from dementia in ‘Her Locket’
The winners of the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining 202
Artist Romina Batino with her photograph ‘Boundless’ at her exhibit ‘PlayGround’ with sculptor Ovvian Castrillo Romina’s ‘Roamistry’ pieces were first displayed in a gallery in Ohio
‘Roamistry’ is a technique by artist Romina Batino born from a windshield covered in soap suds which reflected the lights inside a carwash
The ‘Luminaries and Legacies’ exhibition features the works of the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining 2024 honorees
The exhibition showcases the stories behind the works of the honorees
GLAZING LIFE
How many films will you catch at this year’s Pelicula, the Spanish Film Festival organized by Instituto Cervantes? Pelicula will screen approximately 25 films from Oct. 5 to 13 at ShangriLa Plaza cinemas, starting with the multi-awarded animated film Robot Dreams (2023) by Spanish director Pablo Berger
As one of the must-experience international film festivals based in Metro Manila, Pelicula celebrates its 23rd edition with a well-curated selection of Official Selections, including Víctor Erice’s latest work Cerrar los ojos (2023) and director Javier Macipe’s La estrella azul (2023).
In Cerrar los ojos (Close Your Eyes), famous Spanish actor Julio Arenas disappears while shooting a film. The police conclude that he has been the victim of an accident by the sea. Many years later, a TV program brings the mystery surrounding his disappearance back into the spotlight, showing exclusive images of the last scenes he filmed, shot by his dear friend, director Miguel Garay
One of the few films about rock and roll made in Spain, La estrella azul follows a famous Spanish musician who meets an elderly musician who, despite having written some of his country’s most famous folk songs, is going through hard times and can hardly pay his bills. Together they form an outlandish Quixote-style duo, with all the makings of total commercial failure. There will be comedies such as Casa en llamas (Dani de la Orden, 2024) and Loli Tormenta (2023), which will be presented by scriptwriter Mario Torrecillas, as well as documentaries like Rioja, the Land of a Thousand Wines (2023),
Scrap
BELMONT Hotel Manila has launched its fourth Hiraya exhibit, featuring sculptures and abstract works by contemporary Filipino artist Marlon Luceñara. The exhibit, titled Hiraya: Ang Hugis ng Imahinasyon ni Marlon Luceñara, will run until Nov. 20. Luceñara, hailing from Sagay City in Negros Occidental, shared his journey from humble beginnings, recalling how he started creating art with just 200 pesos and materials from a junk shop. Despite financial struggles, he credited perseverance, hard work, and faith for his success. Today, he is recognized in the art community, having won awards such as Kinetic
prominent flamenco figures in its cast.
Highlighting the cinematic connections and shared history of Spain and the Philippines, the film festival introduces En corto: Short films from the Philippines, Latin America, and Spain, another special section featuring short films from the three countries. All screenings are free to the public. All films are in Spanish (or their original language) with English subtitles.
Don’t forget to visit a special exhibition, What’s a festival like you doing in a city like this?! on display at the Intramuros branch of Instituto Cervantes. The exhibition features a selection of posters, videos, and graphic materials from past editions of the festival.
Rolling the reels at Pelicula 2024
Hispanoamérica, canto de vida y esperanza (2024)—both films by José Luis López Linares—and Benito Pérez Buñuel (2022), an intriguing exploration of the influence of Pérez Galdós’ novels on Luis Buñuel’s films. This documentary will be presented by its director Luis Roca on Oct. 8. Catch the Latin American films: Argentine comedy Puan (María Alché and Benjamín Naishtat, 2023), Brazilian Pacarrete (Allan Deberton, 2019), and Panamanian Las hijas (Kattia Zúñiga, 2023).
For this edition, Pelicula introduces Creadores teatrales, a special section featuring four filmed productions from Teatro Real in Madrid. Featured productions include El amor brujo (in ballet version by the company of Víctor Ullate), Carmen, and Fuenteovejuna (both adapted by Antonio Gades), as well as El público, an opera based on Lorca’s text, recreated by Spanish composer Mauricio Sotelo and featuring
Sculpture of the Year and the Sining Award 2023. The exhibit’s opening day saw the attendance of media and loyal guests. Belmont Hotel Manila’s Director of Operations, Mayann Malapote, and Cluster General Manager, Socrates Alvaro, welcomed the attendees. The event also featured a selection of Filipino cuisine with a creative twist. As part of the hotel’s ongoing effort to promote Filipino culture, the Hiraya series provides a platform for local artists. Visitors can view and purchase Luceñara’s works until the exhibit concludes in November.
For inquiries, contact Belmont Hotel Manila at 5318 8888 or info@belmontmanila.com.
There will also be a free film workshop for children conducted by filmmaker Mario Torrecillas on Oct. 6, also in Intramuros. Participating children will create a video about how they dream of the city.
Since its inception in 2002, Pelicula has been an annual attraction for Filipino cineastes. In 2004, the festival introduced a popular tradition where viewers can rate the films they have watched. The film with the highest ratings will receive the Audience Choice Award and will be screened again during the festival’s closing. Pelicula 2024 will culminate on Oct. 13.
Pelicula 2024 is a project of Instituto Cervantes in Manila, presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines, AECID, Shangri-La Plaza, the Embassy of Argentina in the Philippines, the Embassy of Brazil in the Philippines, the Embassy of Colombia in the Philippines, MTRCB, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, De La Salle University – College of Saint Benilde, the UP Film Institute, the Department of European Languages of the University of the Philippines, Far Eastern University, CIIT College of Arts and Technology, Mapúa University, iAcademy, Mint University, Ateneo de Manila UniversityModern Languages, Kinoise PH, and Sinegang PH. It is sponsored by Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Arthaland, Ayala Corporation, Fundador, Terminal Six, and Boysen. For updates on the festival, please visit the website of Instituto Cervantes de Manila (https:// manila.cervantes.es) or the Facebook page of Instituto Cervantes de Manila: www.facebook. com/InstitutoCervantesManila
RUSTAN’s recently paid tribute to National Artist Arturo Luz with an exhibit titled “Improvisations by Arturo Luz” at Rustan’s Makati, which opened on Sept. 19. The exhibit, part of the “Rustan’s for the Arts” initiative, showcased several of the neorealist master’s iconic works.
At the launch event, Luz’s granddaughter, artist Paulina Luz-Sotto, delivered remarks about her grandfather’s collection, celebrating his contribution to modern Filipino art. The exhibit featured Luz’s minimalist and geometric works, pivotal in shaping the country’s art scene. Honored as National Artist for Visual Arts in 1997, Arturo Luz’s career spanned over six decades. He was instrumental in the development of neorealism in the Philippines and founded The Luz Gallery, which showcased works by prominent local modernist artists.
“Rustan’s for the Arts,” dedicated to promoting local artistic and cultural endeavors, continues to support and highlight Filipino art through initiatives like this exhibit. For more information, follow @rustansph on social media or visit https://rustans.com/
Glaiza Lee
From left: Belmont Hotel Manila director of operations Mayann Malapote, contemporary Filipino artist Marlon Luceñara, and Belmont Hotel Manila cluster general manager Socrates Alvaro
The ‘Hiraya: Ang Hugis ng Imahinasyon ni Marlon Luceñara’ features many of the artist’s sculptures and abstract works
‘Robot Dreams’ is about the unlikely friendship of a dog and a robot during the 1980s
‘Cerrar los ojos (Close Your Eyes)’ follows the mystery behind an actor’s sudden disappearance during a film shoot
From left: Jeremy Barns, Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Maritess Tantoco-Enriquez, and Renato Enriquez
Artist Paulina Luz-Sotto with the works of her grandfather National Artist Arturo Luz
The ‘Improvisations by Arturo Luz’ exhibition features some of the artworks by the national artist throughout the six decades of his career
‘El maestro que prometió (The Teacher Who Promised the Sea)’ follows the story about a woman looking for the remains of her great grandfather