THE state weather bureau said that a low-pressure area that had formed just outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) has developed into a tropical depression as earlier feared.
In its 5:00 p.m. advisory on Sunday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that the cyclone would be christened ‘Marce’ once it enters the PAR late Sunday night or early Monday morning.
As of late Sunday afternoon, the center of the weather disturbance was estimated to be some 1,315 kilometers east of Eastern
resurrecting probe into PCSO official's slay
By Rio N. Araja
THE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.
Speaker: Storm shelters to be built nationwide
'Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act' soon to be signed by PBBM
On Sunday, PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma. Mendoza narrated before congressmen how Garma allegedly facilitated the PCSO official’s roadside assassination on July 30, 2020 by providing the necessary information about his schedule, details about his vehicle and the funding necessary to carry it out.
BARRM HUDDLE. President Marcos listens intently during a
held yesterday at the Aguado Residence in the
Pangandaman, and Special
Marcos
By Rio N. Araja
BOTH chambers of Congress have approved a bill mandating the construction of permanent, storm-resilient evacuation centers that would shelter large numbers of people and even farm animals in multiple locations nationwide.
The whistleblower also implicated incumbent National Police Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder.
Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption within the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City.
meets BARRM leaders to ensure 2025 peaceful polls
By Rio N. Araja
By Vince Lopez
Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in-
PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with leaders of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to bolster collaboration with the national government in ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and credible midterm election in the region next year.
The meeting focused on preserving political stability in the region amid growing tension triggered by the coming May 2025 electoral contest, a statement from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said. Held at the Aguado Residence in Manila, the meeting was attended by four BARMM provincial governors, namely Hajiman Hataman of Basilan, Yshmael Sali of Tawi-Tawi, Mamintal Adiong of Lanao del Sur, and Abdul Raof Macacua of Maguindanao del Norte.
By Darwin Amojelar
THE House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability has requested the Department of Justice (DOJ) to issue a lookout bulletin order against seven Office of the Vice President (OVP) officials in connection with its investigation into alleged mismanagement of government funds under Vice President Sara Duterte.
suance of subpoenas to compel the seven officials to appear after their repeated failure to attend hearings on the alleged financial irregularities.
of Education (DepEd) Assistant Secretary Sunshine Charry Fajarda, and SDO Edward Fajarda.
Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry
In a statement on Sunday, House Speaker Martin Romualdez said the proposed “Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act” calls for the building of safe havens that can potentially serve as safe refuge for millions of Filipinos against severe climate-driven calamities that have been increasing in frequency.
THE legal counsel of Chinese businessman Tony Yang sought to disparage lawmakers’ conclusions about his client’s supposedly sketchy past and his alleged ties with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even organized crime.
Manila Rep. Joel Chua initiated the request following the panel's is-
Lawyer Raymond Fortun questioned the House Quad Committee’s impartiality and its ability to pin Chinese national Yang down for ay wrongdoing in a real criminal court.
“I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both prosecutor and judge,” he said.
SENATE President Francis Escudero yesterday said sees no reason for the Senate blue ribbon committee to refuse "justifiable" requests to certify transcripts of its hearings on the Duterte administration's war on drugs.
Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic
adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Fortun, a lawyer who often finds himself at the center high-profile cases, apparently sought to mock congressmen, calling their probe “unacceptable.”
The seven officials include OVP Chief of Staff Zuleika Lopez, Assistant Chief of Staff and Bids and Awards Committee Chair Lemuel Ortonio, Administrative and Financial Services Director Rosalynne Sanchez, Special Disbursing Officer (SDO) Gina Acosta, Chief Accountant Juleita Villadelrey, Department
However, House members argued they did not come by their suspicions about Yang recklessly.
“If someone asks to certify the hearing transcript, I see no reason why the blue ribbon committee should not certify it as long as the reason is justifiable, “Escudero told Super Radyo dzBB in an interview.
of illegal drugs and illegal activities associated with POGOs,” Suarez said in a mixture of Filipino and English.
The Fajarda couple, who have since moved to the OVP, were close aides to the Vice President during her two years as education secretary. In a letter addressed to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Chua said the testimonies of these OVP officials are crucial to the unearthing of possible mishandling of state funds.
The solons explained how the matrix details Yang’s connections to other individuals involved in illicit activities, including the operations of illegal POGOs.
said story. “Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added. Bilyonaryo reported online that “Bautista and his long-time protege in Philippine Airlines, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Bobby Lim, are at the center of the storm after it was
Formally designated as House Bill No. 7354 and Senate Bill No. 2451, the measure is currently in the process of enrollment and will soon be sent to President Marcos for his signature. “The devastation of recent storms shows us the urgent need to act. The
Among the companies implicated are Brickhartz Technology Inc. and Xionwei Technology Co. Ltd., which are being linked to alleged kidnapping.
In his appearance at the Senate hearing on the drug war, Duterte took "full responsibility" for the war on drugs.
On Friday, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga and Deputy Speaker David Suarez of Quezon presented a matrix showing Yang’s first appearance and his subsequent activities at the Quad Comm hearing.
“We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue
Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the House Quad Committee in investigating extrajudicial killings during the Duterte administration, said they have provided copies of the transcript of the hearings to the National Union of People's Lawyers (NUPL).
Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal
Philippines, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the regional waters over the weekend. Philippine Navy Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vin -
cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Beijing’s statement was meant only for its internal audience.
By Angelica Villanueva
THE annual International Bazaar 2024 (IBF) opened its doors yesterday at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, drawing hundreds of visitors eager to experience a vibrant showcase of global cultures, local artistry, and culinary delights. Hosted by the International Bazaar Foundation (IBF), the one-
“Our troops did not observe any exercise, we have to understand that sometimes, China is doing this for their internal audience, right? For them not to look weak and embarrassed,” Trinidad said. Two Chinese warships were monitored at a distance ranging from eight to 14 nautical miles. One of these went up to 1,000 yards at the MMCA site but even
tually went away. “It was not threatening, just normal,” accord
“Since it is a public document, posted on all social media platforms of the Congress, we gave our transcript. That's up to them where they will use it,” he said in a separate interview.
The two firms supposedly have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo.
During Friday’s Quad Comm hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.
Meanwhile, families of drug war victims gathered yesterday at the Siena College Chapel to mark the eighth anniversary of remembrance for their slain relatives. Next page
Quoted by reports, Manalo also said: “The
has consistently pursued
‘Trump, Harris camps assure PH alliance will remain strong
of
the
the
and dignity of all persons.” He added that the country is also recognized as the “first Asian Re-
PHILIPPINE Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez said yesterday the alliance between the Philippines and United States will remain strong regardless of who wins the US presidential election
“I don't think we're going to have a major change in the policies of the United States as far as our alliance is concerned,” Romualdez told DZBB in an interview.
He said that the camps of Republican presidential nominee and former US President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee and US Vice President Kamala Harris have assured him America’s foreign policy on the Philippines will not change.
“I presented my credentials to Trump in 2017. So I got to know most of the people around former president Trump and their national security advisers and others that are now part of the Trump campaign. I got to talk to them,” Romualdez said.
“That was also what Vice President Harris' camp said. But the one with Vice President Harris is clear because it's the Democratic Party. They are the ones we are talking to here. President Marcos got to meet them when he visited Washington twice,” he said.
meeting with leaders of the Bangsamoro
Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)
Malacanang complex in Manila. With the President were Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Secretary Nasser
Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo.
PAGASA
A WEB OF CRIME? House leaders Aurelio Gonzales and David Suarez presented this matrix during the last QUAD Comm hearing which shows the operations of a criminal syndicate allegedly led by fugitive Michael Yang, then economic adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte, that controlled the illegal activities of the POGOs and was involved in the drug trade and extrajudicial killings.
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Speaker Martin Romualdez
Speaker:...
From A1
Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act represents our commitment to safeguarding every Filipino in times of crisis, ensuring that each city and municipality will have a secure, fully equipped center to shelter and support evacuees,” he explained.
Romualdez expressed confidence that the chief executive would quickly sign the measure, allowing the process of constructing shelters to commence, even as many communities across the country struggle to recover from a series of devastating storms this year.
The envisioned shelters will be built to endure typhoon winds of up to 300
New...
From A1
Visayas, but still outside the Philippines.
PAGASA said the depression packed maximum sustained winds of 55 kilometers per hour (km/h) near the center, and gustiness (peak wind speed or sudden, temporary increase) of up to 70 km/h.
The storm was moving Northwestward at 30 km/h as of the weather bureau’s last bulletin on Sunday.
PAGASA projects the weather
Annual...
From A1
In an exclusive interview, the chairwoman shared that the trade show was held annually with the focus on extending help by providing its proceeds to the local community through its programs.
“Every year it's a fundraising event, and the funds support projects of the International Bazaar Foundation. We have a flagship program, which is the scholarship program. Then we also have assistance to disadvantaged communities, and people who have been affected by natural disasters,” she said.
‘We also have medical assistance, the livelihood project. Those are our four main areas and the focus of why we hold the bazaar every year,” Manalo told the Manila Standard. Talking about the impact and takeaway that the foundation wanted to impart to shoppers, the chairwoman
Senate...
From A1
They also called for the prosecution of Duterte and his cohorts to hold them accountable for the deaths of thousands.
The lawmaker said his committee has received information that may suggest that the seven individuals are getting ready to leave the country.
kilometers per hour and seismic activity with up to an 8.0 magnitude.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) in consultation with local government units (LGUs) will determine where new centers will be built, with priority being given to high-risk, disaster-prone areas, the Speaker added.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will be tapped to erect these centers in coordination with local governments, adhering to the strict standards of the National Building Code.
“Every center facilities will include sleeping areas, health care stations, shower and toilet facilities, and spaces for children and women, ensuring full accessibility for people with disabili-
disturbance to move toward northern Luzon, where a recent storm, Typhoon Leon, caused damage due to its violent winds and heavy rains.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that nearly 2 million people were affected by Super Typhoon ‘Leon,’ which battered parts of the country last week.
Leon officially entered the Philippines on the evening of October 26 and exited early morning of All Saint’s Day.
Less than a week before Leon hit the country, Severe Tropical Storm
noted how they could help people in need.
“Well, this is a collaborative effort between the diplomatic community and the foundation, so what we want to do is to bring everybody. It's a cultural exchange. We have merchandise, we have food, we have performances. So it's an opportunity for all the countries to come together in friendship for a good cause,” she added.
On the other hand, Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano echoed Manalo’s statement, sharing that the one-day event was not just a display of the rich tapestry of cultural exhibits but also opportunities to help the underserved.
“We share with you the genuine desire to be of help to our people. It is also heartwarming to see effective collaboration in action, from different areas and different perspectives. We are brought together by purpose and passion, a purpose to serve the underserved, and compassion to make a difference,” the mayor said.
Deaconess Rubylin Litao, coordinator of Rise Up for Life and for Rights, said in a report by ABSCBN that the families of the victims agree that the former President was responsible for the killings.
Meanwhile, ICC assistant to counsel Kristina Conti said that the
“Considering these developments, I earnestly request your office to issue a Lookout Bulletin Order against these personalities. This action is imperative to monitor their movements and prevent any potential attempt to flee the country, which could significantly hinder our investigation and broader efforts to uphold the integrity of public service,” Chua wrote to the Justice Secretary. As this developed, two other House leaders on said the Vice President’s continuously nose-diving trust and perfor-
ties,” Romualdez noted.
He further explained that the proposed law allows local governments to designate existing structures as evacuation centers, provided they meet the resilience and accessibility requirements.
Each Ligtas Pinoy center shall include sanitation facilities, food preparation areas, emergency power, and even designated areas for livestock — recognizing that many Filipino families evacuate with animals essential to their livelihood.
Romualdez emphasized the legislation represents a significant step in the government’s broader climate resilience strategy.
He noted that the measure responds to repeated calls from local communities for safe, resilient infrastructure that can withstand natural and human-
Kristine battered the provinces of Luzon and Visayas, destroying much infrastructure and crops and leaving around 150 people dead and 20 still missing.
Combined, ‘Kristine’ and ‘Leon’ affected some 8.6 million individuals, according to the NDRRMC’s tally released on Sunday.
Both storms, affected 858 road sections and 110 bridges, however, as of Sunday, 703 roads and 92 bridges were already passable.
Of the 367 cities and municipalities that lost power during the passing of the cyclones, 323 had their power
Marcos... From A1
Also in attendance were Special Assistant to the President (SAP), Secretary Antonio Lagdameo Jr., Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo, Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman, and Mindanao Development Authority chief Leo Magno and gubernatorial candidates for the upcoming national and local elections next year, Datu Tucao Mastura of Maguindanao del Norte and Datu Ali Midtimbang of Maguindanao del Sur.
"On orders of the President, Special Assistant to the President, Secretary Antonio Lagdameo initiated the comprehensive consultation reportedly to firm up the collaboration between Manila and Mindanao political leaders in ensuring peaceful, transparent, and credible BARMM elections next year," the PCO said.
ICC might issue an arrest warrant for Duterte before the end of the year.
"The question at this stage of the ICC investigation is who is most responsible for the killings,” she said.
She asserted that Duterte's state -
mance ratings is to be expected given her continued evasion of answering important questions surrounding her alleged public funds misuse.
‘Trump, .. From A1
The ambassador also said there is no need to be concerned about the stand of whoever is going to be the new US president on the West Philippine Sea.
“I have been talking with the military here or the Pentagon, they know that it is for our mutual interest. That is for the interest of the US and the Philippines,” Romualdez said.
Meanwhile, with less than a day before Election Day, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump went on a frantic last push for votes in the historically close campaign.
Seventy-five million people have cast early ballots ahead of Tuesday's climax and the race is down to the wire -- with more states functionally tied in polls at this point than in any comparable election.
As of Saturday (US time) evening, neither candidate had a margin greater than three points in any of the seven battleground states set to determine the presidency, according to the polling averages maintained by RealClearPolitics.
induced calamities.
“We are building a future where our communities can endure, where our families are safe, and where our nation stands ready to face the escalating impact of climate change,” the Speaker said.
On Friday, Mr. Marcos vowed to further improve disaster risk reduction (DRR) capabilities at the local and national levels after parts of the country were hit hard by floods and landslides caused by a series of powerful typhoons.
In a vlog posted on social media, the President noted that millions of Filipinos were affected while the infrastructure and agriculture sectors sustained billions of pesos worth of damage due to recent typhoons exacerbated by climate change.
supply restored already. Meanwhile, the disaster agency said that of the 50 cities and municipalities whose water supply was affected, 43 had their water service restored.
Sixty-five cities and municipalities had their communication lines disrupted but 17 of these have already been restored.
Forty-eight cities and municipalities still have disrupted communication lines.
The NDRRMC said three airports were affected by Kristine and Leon, but all of them are now operational.
PCO also added that various "influential political figures in Mindanao" were called upon "to hammer out an understanding that would enhance the alliance between local leaders and the national government in addressing the unique challenges that confront the Bangsamoro region."
The said meeting also tackled the government's development agenda for the Bangsamoro people following the Supreme Court's decision declaring that Sulu is not part of BARMM's territorial jurisdiction.
"The diverse assembly of both local and national leaders has also emphasized PBBM's commitment to an inclusive development and peace in the Bangsamoro region," said Lagdameo.
"As the political landscape in the region evolves, the cooperation among these leaders will be essential for shaping up the future of their communities and in fostering sustainable development in BARMM," he added.
ments made during the Senate hearing will stand as they are. According to official government data, 6,181 people were killed during the anti-drug campaign. However, several rights groups believe that up to 30,000 may have been killed.
Pampanga Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. and Zamboanga Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe said the plummeting ratings of Duterte as reported in the latest OCTA Research survey is an expression of the Filipino’s continuing distrust over her alleged lack of transparency and accountability.
“It is expected. She used the people’s mo ey, and up to now, she could not give an explanation,” Gonzales said.
Harris -- desperate to shore up the Great Lakes states seen as essential to any Democratic ticket -- was to spend the day in Michigan, beginning in Detroit before a stop in Pontiac and an evening rally at Michigan State University.
Trump's Sunday timetable centers on Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Georgia, the three biggest prizes in the "Electoral College" system that awards states influence according to their size.
None of Trump's Sunday events take place in areas with large Hispanic populations but Pennsylvania is the swing state with the most Puerto Ricans, a community particularly angered by the bigotry at Trump's rally. "The choice could not be clearer for Pennsylvanians: President Donald J. Trump stands for America First policies while Kamala Harris represents incompetence and dangerously liberal policies that are devastating Pennsylvania families," the Trump campaign said.
Michigan is one of the seven closely watched battlegrounds.
Trump flipped the "Great Lake State," a former Democratic stronghold, on his way to defeating Hillary Clinton in 2016. President Joe Biden returned it to the Democratic column in 2020, buoyed by unionized workers and a large Black community.
But this time, Harris risks losing the support of a 200,000-strong Arab-American community that has denounced Biden's handling of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
Pollsters have noted an erosion in Black support for the Democratic ticket and Harris's aides acknowledge that they still have work to do to turn out enough African American men to match Biden's winning coalition in 2020. In a bid to reach out beyond her traditional support bases, Harris wrapped a day on the campaign trail Saturday with a surprise appearance on "Saturday Night Live," mocking her presidential election rival Donald Trump on the iconic sketch show.
"Keep Kamala and carry on-ala!" the vice president said in a well-received appearance alongside Maya Rudolph, the comedian who has been playing her as "America's fun aunt" on the show.
Keen on as much TV exposure as possible, the Harris campaign has booked a two-minute spot to air Sunday during football games, including a tie between two NFL teams from the crucial swing states -- the Green Bay Packers against the Detroit Lions.
In the ad, Harris pledges to be "a president for all Americans" and promises to "build a brighter future for our nation."
"The campaign's research shows that the last week has proven decisive in cementing the choice in this election with both undecided and lower-propensity voters," her campaign said.
Harris, 60, got a boost Saturday as the final Des Moines Register poll before Election Day—seen as a highly credible test of wider public sentiment—showed a stunning turnaround, with Harris ahead in a state won easily by Trump in 2016 and 2020. With AFP
“The questions are simple. Please explain the use of confidential funds when she was DepEd Secretary and the safehouses that were paid P16 million for just 11 days. For our fellow tax payers, she should be answering this,” he added. Dalipe echoed Gonzales’ sentiments, highlighting the impact of Duterte’s controversies on her ability to lead. He stressed that Duterte’s declining ratings in key regions like the National Capital Region and Balance Luzon, where her
END GAME. Former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump (left) gestures as he arrives on stage to speak during a campaign rally at the Sports and Expo Center at Macomb Community College in Warren, Michigan, November 1, 2024, and US Vice President and Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris (R) walks on stage as she arrives for a campaign rally at the Craig Ranch Amphitheater in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 31, 2024. AFP
NEWS IN BRIEF
DA W. Visayas harvest saline-resistant
rice
ILOILO CITY—The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Western Visayas has harvested 12.4 metric tons of a saline-resistant rice variety, marking a breakthrough for resilient rice production in high-salinity areas.
This harvest, part of a research initiative by the DA’s Integrated Agricultural Research Center (WESVIARC) in the Jaro district, yielded 252 bags of NSIC Rc 604 rice, each weighing 49 kilograms.
According to Science Research Specialist Engr. Flerida Demamay, the variety was developed under WESVIARC’s program to test and refine rice strains that can thrive in saline and lowland-irrigated soils.
The harvest reflects the DA’s commitment to enhancing crop performance in challenging conditions and is part of the Masagana Rice Industry Development Program, which aims to boost the country’s rice output. Caloy Lozada
Tulfo to DMW: Equal salaries for seafarers
DEPUTY Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Rep. Erwin Tulfo wants the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to make sure that Filipino seafarers and other professionals sign contracts wherein their salaries would be similar to what is being received by other nationalities.
Tulfo, along with ACT-CIS Rep. Edvic Yap, is scheduled to meet with officials from the DMW this week to discuss this issue.
“For a long time, my office has been receiving these kinds of complaints but our kababayans are helpless because we Filipinos are not choosy,” he said.
ACT-CIS Rep. Edvic Yap suggested that the DMW should talk to the manning, placement and recruitment agencies regarding this matter.
Rio N. Araja
Bangsamoro backs women in governance
THE Bangsamoro region is advocating for increased women’s participation in governance and decision-making in a bid to create more inclusive policies.
During a side event at the International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security, stakeholders emphasized the importance of women’s roles across various sectors.
British Ambassador to the Philippines and Palau, Laure Beaufils, noted the need for stronger women’s participation in all aspects of governance within the region.
“We see now there are so many more role models among women, as parliamentarians, indeed as ministers, as chair of the Bangsamoro Women’s Commission, as activists, and as political players, even at a very grassroots level,” Beaufils stated. Rex Espiritu
House set to reconvene on budget
By Rio N. Araja
THE House of Representatives will reconvene on Monday with the ratification of the proposed P6.352-trillion 2025 national budget on top of its agenda for the remainder of its session this year.
Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe on Sunday said the House expects the Senate to pass the budget proposal soon so the two chambers could task a bicameral conference committee to come up with a common version of the outlay.
“We hope to ratify the bicam report before our Dec. 20 Christmas break.
There is enough time to approve the final version of the budget,” he said.
He gave the assurance that the proposed budget would be ready to be signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. before the end of 2024.
“As in the past, the spending program for the coming year will be in place
before the current fiscal year is over to ensure continuity of spending and seamless implementation of activities and programs,” he added.
The national budget is the single most important piece of legislation Congress passes each year, he noted.
Aside from prioritizing the final approval of the 2025 outlay, Dalipe said Congress would continue to exercise its oversight power through its various committees, including the Quad Comm, the panel of the good government and public accountability, and the Quinta Comm created before the recess in September.
“We remain steadfast in protecting our people from abuses and in expos-
LTO chief wants probe on Korean who ran over motorcycle in Clark
By Rio N. Araja
LAND Transportation Office (LTO)
chief Vigor Mendoza II has ordered an investigation into the viral video of a foreigner who deliberately ran over a motorcycle of a security guard and later hit a gasoline pump that ignited a fire in a gasoline station in Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.
“We assure the public that we will look into this and impose sanctions. The incident is not acceptable,” he said.
Based on the initial investigation, the Korean has been working in a casino in Clark and is reportedly on leave since Oct. 19. At dawn on Oct. 31, the Korean was seen driving a sports utility vehicle that deliberately hit a motorcycle
driven by a security guard who was trying to stop his car. Fortunately, the security guard was not hurt.
The incident, according to the Clark Development Corp., started when local security guards found the Korean naked inside his car. The Korean then sped of the vehicle which resulted in the chase.
After hitting a motorcycle in front of
a hotel in Clark, the SUV sped off and was later cornered in a nearby gasoline station where he deliberately hit a gasoline pump.
The Korean is now under police custody and facing appropriate criminal charges that include attempted homicide.
The LTO investigation will focus on determining if the 41-year Korean driver is a Philippine driver’s license holder.
ing acts of wrongdoing in government,” Dalipe said.
The Quad Comm is set to hold additional hearings on the bloody war on drugs of the Duterte administration and extrajudicial killings tied to it, on illegal Philippine offshore and gambling operators and on the drug menace, he said.
The mega panel is scheduled to conduct its 10th hearing on Nov. 7 and anticipating the attendance of former President Rodrigo Duterte to attend its inquiry.
Dalipe said the committee on good government and public accountability would continue its inquiry into the unexplained confidential funds of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Solons praise Romualdez on leadership
By Rio N. Araja
BUOYED by Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez’s stable and impressive trust and performance ratings, two Mindanao House leaders on Sunday expressed support and gave the assurance to work even harder under his leadership in making the chamber more relevant to Filipinos.
Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Adiong, ad hoc committee on Marawi rehabilitation and victims compensation chairman Zia Alonto Adiong, and Davao de Oro Rep. Maria. Carmen Zamora, special committee on strategic intelligence chairperson, vowed to give their best in the remaining months of the 19th Congress.
“This (positive survey results) gives us the impetus to work even more. It gives us the motivation precisely because we see that people appreciate the efforts of the House leadership to uncover the real truth behind the lies on every issue that have been peddled to us before,” Adiong said.
The House of Representatives continues its inquiry on alleged irregularities in the previous administration - from summary executions to illegal Philippine offshores and gaming operators and illegal drugs.
PH honors Royal Malaysian Air Force
By Rex Espiritu
THE Philippine Air Force (PAF) held a send-off ceremony to honor the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) which played a crucial role in providing humanitarian assistance in the relief efforts for victims of Severe Tropical Storm “Kristine.”
“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Malaysian Government for their swift response to our request for assistance. Your support during this critical time has been invaluable in our recovery efforts following Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, and it exemplifies our strong partnership in times of need,” said Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gibo Teodoro.
This mission, conducted from October 26 to November 2, 2024, involved the deployment of a
Eurocopter EC725 Caracal long-range transport helicopter, operated by a team of 16 crew members, to aid disaster response efforts.
“The contributions made by the Royal Malaysian Air Force have made a significant difference in our recovery efforts for the victims of STS Kristine in Bicol. Their prompt and effective support has not only provided essential aid but also strengthened our ties as we work together to overcome this tragedy,” said Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno.
“Their participation in HADR operations exemplified dedication to humanitarian principles and showcased the importance of multinational collaboration in ensuring timely assistance to those affected by disasters,” PAF Spokesperson Colonel Maria Consuelo Castillo added.
SYMBOLS OF SPIRITUALITY. In the Caraga Administrative Region, bead-making is a symbol of identity, heritage, and spirituality for indigenous communities. Intricately designed, each bead tells a story, embodying cultural values, beliefs, and connection to their ancestral roots. Angie de Silva
‘EXERCISE KASANGGA.’ Members of the 9th Infantry ‘Spear’ Division and their Australian Army counterparts conduct urban operations as part of ‘Exercise Kasangga’ at Camp Elias Angeles, Pili, Camarines Sur on October 30. 9th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office
Youth-based poll puts Binay among top voters’ choice
MAKATI Mayor and senatorial aspirant
Abigail Binay has landed among the top candidates in a national survey of senatoriables conducted across youth and students sectors by the newly-formed Centre for Student Initiatives (CSI).
Binay ranked fifth with a 43.67 percent voter preference in the maiden survey done by the CSI among randomly selected 1,200 respondents, consisting of students from various universities and colleges in the country.
Binay acknowledged the support of the youth sector, vowing to “pursue more reforms in education to prepare students for the challenges of a modern, global economy.”
“I am heartened by the youth sector’s strong show of support. I am inspired all the more to press for better government support for our youth and students,” she said.
She underscored the importance of technology in promoting literacy and proficiency among students, saying the government should provide quality education and modern instructional resources that meet the demands of the 21st century.
“I will make it my priority to provide our students free access to modern learning tools such as tablets and computers. In this rapidly changing world, it is crucial to ensure that every child, regardless of socio-economic background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute positively to society,” Binay said.
Ninety Reds surrender in Surigao del Sur
IN BRIEF
ICAO praises CAAP on fruitful Cebu confab
THE International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has recognized the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) for well-organized and professionally executed 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation, Asia and Pacific Region, held Oct. 14-18 at Dusit Thani in Mactan, Cebu.
ICAO regional director Tao Ma extended his gratitude to the entire CAAP team for their warm and welcoming hospitality which contributed to a highly productive conference and fostered new and renewed partnerships.
“Organizing and conducting the Conference to such a high standard is not easy and was only made possible by the dedication of your team, who worked tirelessly for many months before and during the Conference,” Tao Ma said.
ICAO council president Salvatore Sciacchitano and secretary general, Juan Carlos Salaza also expressed appreciation for the support of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, whose commitment aligns with ICAO’s goals and mission. Joel Zurbano
Group backs resumption of peace talks with Reds
FOR a comprehensive peace agreement, both the government and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) should adopt a framework rooted in human rights, socio economic reforms, and political reforms, the Council of Leaders for Peace Initiatives (CLPI) said. According to CPLl lead convenor lawyer Tony La Vina, their group underscored the importance of continuing efforts to secure a principled and peaceful resolution to the decades-long armed conflict in the Philippines.
In a statement issued on Nov. 23, 2022 during the peace talks in Oslo, Norway between the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front (NDF), both sides expressed optimism for a sustainable peace rooted in addressing the legitimate socioeconomic and political grievances at the heart of the conflict.
La Vina said the statement was crucial as it represented the formal reopening of peace negotiations between the Philippine government and the NDFP, following the abrupt termination of peace talks during the Duterte administration in 2017.
Bataan mobile library gets 50-tablet donation
BATAAN First District councilor Tony Roman said his Cool Iskool Mobile Library project has received a donation of 50 tablets from ACEN Corp. The project is seen to make impact to the province by providing vital educational assistance to the students. Roman emphasized the importance of promoting the culture of reading among elementary school students.
He said the mobile library will visit local schools.
Earlier, Aboitiz Foundation donated 57 tablets to the project The Asia Foundation is supplying the elibrary resources Butch Gunio
48 presidential appointees await CA consent
By Rio N. Araja
NEWLY designated Interior Secre-
tary Juanito Victor Remulla Jr. leads the list of 48 presidential appointees awaiting the nod of the bicameral Commission on Appointments once Congress resumes session on Nov. 4.
“We have 48 new appointees pending confirmation as of Oct. 30,” said Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel, assistant minority leader of the CA. Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque and Civil Service Commission chair-
person Marilyn Barua-Yap are also among those awaiting their confirmation by the CA.
“There are 45 newly promoted military generals and career diplomats pending confirmation,” Pimentel said.
A group of 30 Department of Foreign Affairs executives likewise awaiting confirmation is headed by Emmanuel Fernandez, the new Philippine ambassador to Pakistan, with concurrent jurisdiction over Afghanistan.
Mindanao political leaders meet with PBBM on BARMM concerns
INFLUENTIAL political figures in Mindanao convened recently in Manila to hammer out an understanding that would enhance the alliance between local leaders and the national government in addressing the unique challenges that confront the Bangsamoro region.
Included in the comprehensive and strategic dialog with President Marcos, held at the Aguado Residence in Manila, were four of the five provincial governors in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, namely, Hajiman Hataman of Basilan, Yshmael Sali of Tawi-Tawi, Mamintal Adiong of Lanao del Sur, and Abdulraof Macacua of Maguindanao del Norte. Also in the list of participants were two gubernatorial aspirants, Datu Tucao Mastura of Maguindanao del Norte, and Datu Ali Midtimbang of
Maguindanao del Sur. Partido Federal ng Pilipinas and Cotabato Gov. Reynaldo Tamayo, Secretary Nasser Pangandaman and Mindanao Development Authority chief Leo Magno also joined the roundtable conference.
On orders of the President, special assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. initiated the comprehensive consultation meant to firm up collaboration between Manila and Mindanao political leaders in ensuring peaceful, transparent, and credible BARMM elections next year.
The President’s in-depth discussion with the Bangsamoro governors and influential Mindanao leaders was focused on preserving political stability in the region amid growing tensions triggered by the upcoming May 2025 electoral contest.
Pimentel urged the public to submit any information or complaints against the appointees pending confirmation to the CA secretariat.
Under the Constitution, the 25-member CA is empowered to vet the competence, fitness, and integrity of key presidential appointees and to approve or reject them.
The CA is composed of 12 members each from the House of Representatives and the Senate, with the Senate President serving as ex-officio presiding officer.
By Rex Espiritu
NINETY
communist rebels have laid down arms and rejoined mainstream society in a surrender ceremony presided by Surigao del Sur Gov. Alexander Pimentel.
Lt. Col. Francisco Garello, public affairs chief of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID), said the event was a testimony of significant accomplishments of joint efforts by the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and various government agencies under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) committee of the province.
The event also aimed to encourage holdouts of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to surrender in line with the ultimate goal of ending local communist insurgency in the province, Garello said.
The insurgents gave themselves up to the 36th and the 29th Infantry Battalions under the operational control of the 901st Infantry Brigade, along with the 75th Infantry Battalion (75IB) and the 3rd Special Forces Battalion under the 401st Infantry Brigade, as well as the Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office.
They were presented to the governor, along with 36 high-powered firearms of various calibers that they turned in.
Several key officials attended the event, including Brig. Gen. Francisco Lorenzo Jr., commander of the 401st Brigade and Brig. Gen. Arsenio D.C. Sadural, chief of the 901st Brigade; Lorenzo and Sadural expressed message of support to the surrenderees for the decision to return to the fold of the law.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING SEASON. With the countdown to Christmas Day officially on,early shoppers check out Christmas decors for sale in Divisoria, Manila/.The Philippines is known for having the longest Holiday Season in the world, starting as early as September. Normal Cruz
INGENUITY HAS MANY FACES. A farmer goes about his daily chores tending to his multi-crop farm of trellised tomatoes and heirloom rice varieties in Brgy Coros, Bokod, Benguet. Dave Leprozo
HARBINGERS OF HAPPY HOLIDAYS. Christmas lanterns locally known as parol of different shapes, sizes, and colors on sale along Commonwealth Ave. in Quezon City light up the night, waiting for buyers in keeping with the longest-running Christmas Season in the world. Eduardo Rabaya Castr o
OPINION
Corruption kills
AS of this writing, government agencies have yet to determine how many died on account of Typhoon Kristine. Some hundred and fifty Filipinos have died as of last count, including children buried in mud and landslides cascading from hills drenched in water, or washed away by rampaging floods in Bicol, in Batangas and elsewhere. But many more are missing and unaccounted for.
Recall that just as our President was boasting in his SONA last July 22 that more than 5,000 flood control projects were finished, Typhoon Carina caused massive flooding in Metro Manila and neighboring regions. And then came Enteng, same story in some other parts. With Kristine, the President felt a “little helpless” while sitting in a command conference where the dire situation in Camarines Sur and Albay was being reported, hoping and praying that there wouldn’t be too much damage and too many casualties. The day after, reports came in from Talisay, Laurel, and Agoncillo, towns less than a hundred kilometers from Manila. Corruption kills, and it kills gravely. Yet, the government over the past seven years poured 132 billion on flood control projects. Where in heaven’s name do we see the positive results of such projects? Why, Senate hearings after Carina revealed the truth that there is no “master plan” even!
The favorite pork barrel dish of our legislators used to be “farm-to-pocket” roads. Now it has mutated into “flood control-topocket.” Farm-to-market roads were conveniently hidden in far-flung barangays where greased COA auditors (patty, or graft slang for “pati-siya”) did not bother to inspect. Send a grader there, but collect for asphalting or concrete that never was. Let pockets profit instead from the under-specified, in some worst cases, the “ghost” and nonexistent projects.
The lion’s share of the graft proceeds used to go to “eddie”, slang for “eh di si congressman”, with some “mu-mo” or table leavings for COA, the mayor, the DPWH district engineer.
A few decades back, our legislators cheered lustily when they got 25 million each, when the appropriations chairman was the late Rolly Andaya, during the speakership of Jose de Venecia of the rainbow coalition of FVR.
Now it’s half a billion each, minimum, and up to 5 billion for the favored few, those who open their mouths and shout hallelujah to leadership, or conscripted to the demolition crew against its enemies.
The wide difference cannot be explained by inflation. How about our senators, including those
who just sit there, and lie there? At least 2 billion each, according to an insider in the once upon a time “august” chamber. Someone got decapitated because it was not “hating-kapatid” all the way. In the HoR, where a QuadComm presided by non-lawyers prey on the identified “enemies” of the new “state”, mere attendance in its inquisitorial hearings can net the attendee, even if late, a million or two for being “present.” Open your mouth and read from a “script” and you get more.
The whole population has been quite resilient as well — people have been numbed.
No wonder there are so many districts where the incumbents are running unopposed. The moolah is just too much for a daring challenger to match. The useless but wiser challengers file, and then collect from the incumbent some million or two to withdraw their candidacies.
Just look at the fabled Kennon Road, where the exhilarating scent of thousands of pine trees once enveloped our senses as we drove to the summer capital. How many times has Kennon Road been closed due to landslides blocking the way, and how many times have slope protection projects been built and rebuilt? Ask Baguio Mayor Benjie Magalong how our legislators have been ripping off the national government.
But not to worry, Albay congressman and former governor Joey Salceda tells us. They are a “resilient” breed, he prides.
Well, the whole population has been quite resilient as well. “Manhid na” when it comes to corruption.
No wonder a former president’s favorite song was “Kahit na Magtiis.” He was just echoing the Filipino character aberration which is “tiis nang tiis,” while our current president repeats that aberration, this time on a positive note: “asa nang asa,” or “let us hope and pray”. Next year, our people will troop to the polls to re-elect the same, or elect their chosen kin. For the poor, whether forever poor or nouveau poor, it will be in exchange for a few hundred pesos. For the thinning middle-class, mostly supported by OFW remittances, it is because there are no others to choose from. For the 10% ABC class, why even bother to vote?
Plus ca change, plus ca reste la meme chose. Ask Comelec to translate that.
The Pilipinas Conference
EACH year, the Pilipinas Conference gathers global thought leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society for impactful discussions on the challenges and strategies essential to creating a better Philippines. Now on its ninth year, and marking the Stratbase Group’s 20th anniversary, the conference has become a trusted platform for honest insights, innovative ideas, and transformative policies. This year’s gathering comes at a crucial time as the nation prepares for the 2025 midterm elections, setting the stage for meaningful dialogue on the complex geopolitical, economic, and social issues facing the Philippines today. The Philippines is uniquely positioned within the rapidly evolving Indo-Pacific region. Its strategic location, abundance of natural resources, and dynamic, young workforce make it a potential hub for foreign investment and regional leadership. But potential alone isn’t enough; it’s the action we take and the policies we implement that will define our success.
Ongoing geopolitical shifts have opened a window of opportunity for the Philippines to emerge as a significant player. If the country can streamline bureaucratic processes, attract foreign investments, and foster a stable business environment, it can become a regional manufacturing and logistics powerhouse. This is precisely where multi-sectoral collaboration comes in.
The conference theme, “Navigating a Complex Geostrategic Landscape: Building Resilience Through Cohesive Cross-Sectoral Collaboration in 2025,” couldn’t be more timely. We are at a juncture where global challenges require strategic solutions. It’s through collective effort that we can build
resilience, innovate, and prepare for the unexpected.
A recent survey by Pulse Asia, commissioned by Stratbase, underscores the public’s belief in the essential role of the private sector in driving economic development. The survey highlights that Filipinos see private enterprises as crucial partners in building economic security. This view is clear: 52% of respondents believe the private sector is instrumental in creating livelihood opportunities, 51% appreciate its role in making goods more accessible, and 48% emphasize the importance of high-quality job creation.
Collaborative visions for a stronger Philippines
However, frustrating barriers like red tape, regulatory changes in every political cycle, and corruption are seen as nagging deterrents to foreign investment. If we want an investment-led growth, we must simplify and stabilize these processes. Addressing these roadblocks is more than just a means to boost investor confidence—it’s essential to driving inclusive economic growth that benefits every Filipino. When the government and private sector collaborate on solutions, a symbiotic ecosystem can propel the country to a new era of sustainable economic prosperity that can thrive even amid global uncertainties. As the midterm elections approach, economic issues are top-of-mind for Filipino voters. Pulse Asia’s survey shows that Fili-
More crimes under Duterte’s draconian rule
WHEN former President Rodrigo Duterte appeared before the recent Senate inquiry on his war on illegal drugs, he claimed that crimes had risen under the Marcos Jr. administration. He cited reports of rape, killings, and robbery. The clincher, he claimed, was that a drug den was also discovered at the Malacañang complex.
But should this claim be given any credence at all?
It should not, if we are to rely on the data compiled by the Philippine National Police, the country’s main law enforcement agency.
The agency said index crimes from July 1, 2022 to July 28, 2024 dropped to 83,059 from 217,830 during the same period in the first two years of Duterte’s term from 2016 to 2018, or a decrease of 61.87 percent. Cases of murder, homicide, physical injuries, and rape decreased by 55.69 percent. Cases of robbery, theft, car
theft and other crimes against property registered a 66.81 percent decline, from 124,799 to 41,420 during the same comparative periods.
Meanwhile, crime clearance efficiency increased by 27.13 percent while the crime solution efficiency rate rose by 10.28 percent. “Our latest data indicate a substantial decline in crime rates, underscoring the effectiveness of our ongoing strategies and proactive measures,” according to Camp Crame. The PNP disputed Duterte’s assessment, stressing the anti-illegal drugs campaign under President Marcos had yielded remarkable results, such as the seizure of P35.6 billion worth of illegal drugs and arrest of 122,309 drug suspects. “These accomplishments highlight the effectiveness of our strategies and reinforce our dedication to combating the illegal drug trade,” it said. The PNP emphasized that police officers achieved all this while upholding justice, accountability and respect for human life. It has also vowed to con-
PNP figures tell a story different from what the former president is saying.
SARA Duterte’s political armor is cracking.
Once a symbol of public loyalty, the Vice President now confronts a harsh reality: a fractured support base, growing opposition, and a legacy overshadowed by her father’s influence. Her journey highlights the brutal reality of Filipino politics, where alliances shift like sand and even the strongest names are tested.
The rise of Sara Duterte once seemed inevitable. She commanded respect as the “Queen of Davao,” an unchallenged figure in her father Rodrigo Duterte’s stronghold. Her victories were a testament to the Duterte brand—a name that few dared question. Yet that sense of entitlement has left her unprepared for the unforgiving national stage, where the loyalty she enjoyed at home now feels distant. O nce one of the strongest potential candidates for the presidency in 2028, Sara now confronts a sobering question: Can she withstand the scrutiny that national ambition brings?
Her journey from Davao to Manila was supposed to mark her ascent, but recent polling data by OCTA and Pulse Asia tells a story of fading confidence. OCTA’s Q3 survey shows a six-point decline in trust, while Pulse Asia marks an even sharper nine-point drop in approval. This downturn stretches beyond Metro Manila and Luzon to Visayas and even Mindanao. In her fortress of Davao, cracks are forming. In early 2023, her approval stood at 87 percent; today, it barely clears 60—a signal that the once-unbreakable Duterte hold may be loosening.
What has driven this shift? Her rocky tenure as Secretary of Education, particularly her handling of the department’s budget, is a major factor. Her unapologetic push for confidential funds—defended with a defiance that bordered on indifference to public critique—has ignited fierce opposition. During congressional hearings, her confrontational rhetoric and accusations left the public uneasy with her methods. Analysts describe
pinos are keenly focused on job creation, investment-led growth, and fighting corruption. These priorities are more than just talking points; they are pulsed from the people that candidates must address in their platforms if they hope to win the voting public’s trust. Corruption, in particular, remains a key concern. According to the survey, 65% of Filipinos feel that corruption erodes their trust in government, while 51% see it as a factor worsening poverty. These perceptions underscore an urgent need for transparency and integrity in governance. Beyond the damage to trust, corruption hampers economic growth, and kills the appetite of potential investors. As the world transitions towards zero
tinue a balanced approach to law enforcement that combines effective crime prevention with a strong commitment to protecting human rights, ensuring that public safety and the dignity of every person are respected and upheld.
“The PNP stands united with the nation in building safer and more secure communities. Through collaboration with all sectors of society, we are dedicated to fulfilling our mission to serve and protect,” it said. Then there’s Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, who said that Duterte’s “perception of an escalating crime rate does not reflect the reality supported by concrete data.”
“The peace and order situation remains a top priority for the Marcos administration and we are committed to assuring the Filipino people that our nation is on a path toward greater stability and security,” he pointed out, adding that Duterte’s claims were “anecdotal and lacking empirical support.”
How can Rodrigo Duterte claim that peace and order reigned during his administration when human rights groups here and abroad are saying that between 25,000 to 30,000 extra-judicial killings or summary executions took place from 2016 to 2022? This prompted the International Criminal Court to investigate him for crimes against humanity. He could be held accountable and even found guilty.
Duterte in decline
her stance as entitled, an unyielding confidence that may have suited her local stronghold but appears alienating on the national stage. This approach has not only distanced allies but also emboldened critics, who have seized on her missteps. The public, too, has turned. Across demographics, anti-administration sentiment is surfacing. Her once reliable support within Class E remains, but it is quietly diminishing. Meanwhile, the ABC economic classes have shown the steepest decline, suggesting that a more informed, urban population has grown wary of her intentions. For Sara, these shifting sands risk becoming political quicksand, and her challenge is clear: rebuild her base or risk being left behind.
—“—
The fractures are real, and Sara’s sense of entitlement has made them harder to repair.
As the 2025 midterms approach, Sara’s tensions with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. add another layer of complexity. Their alliance, once mutually beneficial, has turned rocky. This tension could weaken her political base, especially in Davao, where rival factions may seize the chance to exploit the divide. Timing is critical, and her adversaries know it. If Sara hopes to stem this decline, her path forward is difficult. Transparency, or the lack thereof, has become her Achilles’ heel. Her handling of confidential funds, if left unchecked, will continue to be a focal point of criticism. A commitment to transparency, including independent audits, would signal a shift from the insular stance she took in Congress—a necessary move if she wants
carbon emissions, the Philippines has the opportunity to become a key player in the global supply chain. Day 2 of the conference will highlight the creation of green jobs and high-quality employment as central to economic resilience. The Marcos Jr. administration’s 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda is an essential step forward, prioritizing investment in sustainable infrastructure, critical minerals, and clean energy. A resilient economy is not only about pushing for growth; it’s about sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. As we build this future, we must consider the impact on our environment, and our most vulnerable communities. Our approach should be holistic, ensuring that the responsible stewardship of the environment is a requisite for progress
to regain public trust. Repairing her image, however, requires more than transparency. Sara needs alliances beyond her father’s shadow. While her falling out with the Marcos camp has strained her political capital, new alliances could help restore her standing. Diplomacy has not been her strong suit, yet appealing to a national audience demands it. She must temper the brash rhetoric that resonated in Davao and instead adopt a measured, policy-driven approach. Educational reform, particularly around transparency and modernization, could be her rallying cry, addressing public concerns over quality education.
In Davao, she must also reassert her commitment to local governance, showing tangible progress in her strongholds. Grounded leadership—focused on local issues and reforms—could anchor her as a leader who delivers, not one who simply commands. Can she change course? Philippine politics has a history of granting second chances, and the Duterte brand still carries weight. But the fractures are real, and Sara’s sense of entitlement has made them harder to repair. Her adversaries see obvious vulnerabilities and are ready to pounce on further missteps. Her allies may advise caution, urging her to acknowledge past mistakes and pivot toward a more service-oriented and humble approach. To chart a new course, she must embrace transparency, rebuild her alliances, and soften her image—a transformation that could still alter her trajectory. In the end, Sara Duterte’s journey serves as a reminder that no political dynasty is invincible. Her story, once marked by steady ascent, now wavers between redemption and ruin. As she navigates these turbulent waters, her fate mirrors the delicate balance of legacy and accountability that defines Filipino politics. The nation watches, waiting to see if she can rise above the fractures or if she too will be claimed by the forces she once commanded.
that will lift everyone, leaving no one behind. The Pilipinas Conference serves as a rallying cry for all sectors—government, private, and civil society—to come together and contribute to the nation’s future. Stratbase remains committed to fostering these essential dialogues and diverse perspectives are bringing them together to develop policies that are responsive, inclusive, and future-focused. Our greatest challenges won’t be solved by any one sector alone. Solutions will arise from collaboration, innovation, and a shared outlook to push forward. This is our moment to engage, inspire, and lead—leveraging our strengths, addressing our challenges, and building a more resilient, prosperous Philippines for all.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2024
IN BRIEF
Moldova in tense vote for EU future
MOLDOVANS went to the polls on Sunday in a tense presidential election runoff that could play a key role in the country’s European future amid fears of Russian interference.
The vote in a country bordering wartorn Ukraine comes two weeks after a razor-thin “yes” in a referendum on joining the European Union.
Pro-EU incumbent Maia Sandu scored 42.5 percent of the vote in the first round of the presidential election two weeks ago. Alexandr Stoianoglo, supported by the pro-Russian Socialists and who was fired as prosecutor general by Sandu last year, received 26 percent.
But Stoianoglo has since gained the support of other defeated candidates and analysts are predicting a close battle, similar to Georgia’s vote last weekend when the ruling party narrowly won a contested parliamentary election.
In both ex-Soviet republics, Russia has been accused of seeking to sway voters. In each case it has rejected the claims. AFP
Argentine LGBTQ march decries ‘discriminatory’ laws
AN annual LGBTQ Pride march in Buenos Aires drew thousands of participants Saturday, with speeches and banners targeting austerity policies of far-right President Javier Milei that the group says are discriminatory.
Under the slogan “There is no freedom without rights,” marchers paraded down the boulevard from the Plaza de Mayo square. In a festive mood despite their serious message, demonstrators decried budget cuts they said affected HIV treatment and reproductive rights, denounced what they said was a hostile attitude from the government, and demanded passage of a comprehensive anti-discrimination law.
Milei, a libertarian former economist sometimes compared to Donald Trump, had angered the community by dissolving the Ministry of Women, Gender and Diversity, as well as the National Institute Against Discrimination, Xenophobia and Racism in his first year in office. AFP
Victims of Harrod’s late owner Al-Fayed speak out
LONDON — Jen and Cheska are among hundreds of women who have accused the late Harrods owner Mohamed AlFayed of sexual assault and they have told AFP of their “huge anger” that his alleged campaign of abuse and humiliation went unpunished.
“It looked like the dream job,” said Jen, who was 16 when she joined the London department store considered to be the height of glamour.
But the prestige came at a price. Lawyers said Friday that more than 400 women and witnesses linked to Harrods, Fulham football club, the Ritz hotel in Paris and other Fayed entities have come forward in the past six weeks to allege that he raped or assaulted them. Jen worked at the London store from 1986, a year after the billionaire bought it, until 1991. Cheska Hill-Wood was 19 in 1994 when she began working for the former tycoon, who died last year at the age of 94. AFP
Taiwan detects 37 Chinese aircraft; US, Japan, SoKor conduct air drill
WHO: Vax center strike wounds four children in Gaza
THE World Health Organization said four children were among six people wounded Saturday in a strike on a polio vaccination centre in northern Gaza.
The WHO only restarted the second round of vaccinations in northern Gaza on Saturday after being forced to suspend them earlier because of Israeli bombardments.
WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
said the health centre was “in an area where a humanitarian pause was agreed to allow vaccination to proceed” and the attack could off parents of children needing a second vaccine to be covered.
He did not specify who carried out the strike but Israel rejected a claim by a Gaza source that one of its drones fired missiles at the centre.
of Palestinian civilians in the Sheikh Radwan vaccination center in the northern Gaza Strip.”
It added: “Contrary to the claims, an initial review determined that the IDF did not strike in the area at the specified time.”
TAIWAN said it detected 37 Chinese fighter jets, drones and other aircraft near the selfruled island on Sunday as Beijing carried out “long-distance” training flights.
China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years as Beijing pressures Taipei to accept its claims of sovereignty over the island. The Chinese aircraft were spotted from 9:00 am (0100 GMT) and 35 of them crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which separates mainland China and Taiwan, and entered Taiwanese airspace on their way to the Western Pacific Ocean, the defence ministry said.
Taiwan’s military responded by deploying aircraft, naval vessels and shore-based missile systems, the ministry said.
The exercise came a day after Taiwan said it had detected a Chinese military “joint combat readiness patrol” around the island involving fighter jets and warships.
Taiwan spotted 27 Chinese aircraft and six warships in the 24 hours to 6:00 am on Sunday, the ministry said earlier. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has refused to rule out the use of force to bring the democratic island under its control.
The Gaza civil defence agency source told AFP that it was “an Israeli quadcopter that fired two missiles which hit the wall of Sheikh Radwan clinic”.
An Israeli military statement said: “The IDF (army) is aware of claims regarding the injury
“We have received an extremely concerning report that the Sheikh Radwan primary health care centre in northern Gaza was struck today while parents were bringing their children to the life-saving polio vaccination in an area where a humanitarian pause was agreed,” Tedros said.
“Six people, including four children, were injured,” he added. AFP
Iran stages rallies, marks anniversary of 444-day hostage-taking crisis in 1979
TEHRAN — Iranian demonstrators gathered on Sunday outside the former US embassy in Tehran to mark the anniversary of the 1979 hostage crisis that has for decades shaped relations between Washington and Tehran.
The hostage crisis began in November 1979 following the Islamic revolution led by Iran’s late supreme leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini which ousted the Westernbacked Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi.
Students loyal to Khomeini stormed the embassy building and held 52 staff hostage for 444 days while demanding that Washington hand over Iran’s recently toppled shah, who was being treated in the United States
for cancer.
Washington officially broke off relations with Tehran in 1980, midway through the crisis, and they have been frozen ever since.
“Death to Israel, Death to America!” chanted crowds of Iranians outside the building, which is currently a museum known as the “Den of Spies”, and covered with striking anti-American murals.
Others burnt the Israeli and US flags.
Iranians have held the rallies annually since 1979.
Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami criticised Israel and the United States, saying they “cannot survive by slaughtering and killing Muslims.” AFP
Beijing held large-scale military drills around Taiwan last month, which were condemned by Taipei and its key backer the United States.
The Chinese military conducted long-distance training flights in late September, the ministry said previously, when Beijing also fired an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean.
Meanwhile, South Korea, Japan, and the United States on Sunday conducted a joint air drill involving a heavy bomber, Seoul’s military said, in response to North Korea’s latest long-range missile test.
The exercise took place three days after Pyongyang launched one of its most powerful and advanced solidfuelled intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM), which experts say could reach targets in the mainland US.
The drill mobilised the US’ B-1B bomber, South Korea’s F-15K and KF16 fighter jets, and Japan’s F-2 jets, Seoul’s military said.
“The exercise demonstrates the commitment of the ROK-US alliance to integrated extended deterrence in response to the advancing nuclear and missile threats from North Korea,” said South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff in a press release. AFP
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2024
South Korea’s T1 wins 5th Worlds crown
By Caezar Julius Cortez
AFTER a nail-biting, back-and-forth series against China’s no.1 team Bilibili Gaming Dreamsmart, South Korean powerhouse and Philippines’ fan favorite T1 successfully defended its title, winning a 5th Worlds Championship.
Bilibili Gaming had Bin (Chen Ze-Bin) and Elk (Zhao Jia-Hao) dominating their respective lanes, setting the pace early as T1’s bottom lane struggled for the first time the whole tournament.
BLG was able to set themselves at match point, but T1’s fight was far from over.
As T1 struggled in the early game for most of the series, Hall of Legend and 2023 Asian Games gold medalist Lee Sang Hyeok (Faker), proved the critics wrong, as he tenaciously carried the whole team through his legendary playmaking skills.
Game 5 was close until the 28-minute mark.
BLG found a crucial pick onto the T1’s botlane duo in the river, giving them a 3v5 numbers advantage against T1.
However, with Faker’s Galio heroics and clutch playmaking skills, T1 was able to find a turnaround against BLG, and eventually snowball themselves to a win.
The OPPO Finals’ MVP was won by their franchise player and Korean superstar athlete, Faker, who clinched his 5th Worlds Championship win and 2nd Finals MVP award.
Past, present and future.
It was the second time T1 won back-to-back championships. The last time was in 2015 and 2016, back when the organization was still dubbed as SK Telecom T1. This was also the fourth title won by the player-coach duo of Lee Sang Hyeok and Kim Jeonggyun (Kkoma).
Southwoods to host PSA Cup on Nov. 4
THE Philippine Sportswriters Association will host the 3rd PSA Cup golf tournament on Monday, November 4, at the Masters course of the Manila Southwoods Golf and Country Club in Carmona, Cavite. The fellowship tournament, the second under the term of PSA president Nelson Beltran of the Philippine Star, aims to strengthen the relationship between PSA members and longtime partners of the country’s oldest media organization.
Manila Southwoods, under GM Jason Yu and assistant GM Jerome Delariarte, will open its famed Masters course to the PSA less than two weeks after torrential rains brought by tropical storm Kristine rendered the course unplayable.
That will give sportswriters a close look at the Jack Nicklausdesigned layout, which will be playing host when the Philippine Open returns after a five-year absence on January 23 to 26 in its pride of place as kickoff leg of the Asian Tour.
The 3rd PSA Cup is presented by ICTSI with support from the Philippine Sports Commission, San Miguel Corp., PBA, MPBL, Athletic Events and Sports Management, Inc. (ACES) and NLEX.
OF PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY AND MOTION FOR TREATMENT OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
DAGOHOY GREEN ENERGY CORPORATION (DGEC), Applicant. NOTICE OF VIRTUAL HEARING TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:
Notice is hereby given that on 12 September 2024, Dagohoy Green Energy Corporation (DGEC) filed, through the Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS) portal, an Application dated 04 September 2024, seeking the Commission’s approval of its authority to develop, own and/or operate dedicated point-to-point limited facilities to connect the 27 MWDC Dagohoy Solar Power Plant project to the Visayas Grid via the 69 kV Carmen-Ubay transmission line of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), with prayer for issuance of provisional authority and motion for confidential treatment of information.
The pertinent allegations of the said Application are hereunder quoted, as follows: THE APPLICANT
1. DGEC is a corporation duly organized and existing by virtue of and under the laws of the Republic of the Philippines, with principal office address at 7th Floor, JMT Building, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines.
2. DGEC may be served orders and other processes through the undersigned counsel.
NATURE OF THE APPLICATION
3. This Application is submitted to this Honorable Commission pursuant to Section 9(f) of Republic Act No. 9136 otherwise known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (“EPIRA”),1 and Rule 5, Section 5(a)(i) of the EPIRA Implementing Rules and Regulations2 for its consideration and approval of DGEC’s proposed development, ownership, and operation of interconnection facilities which shall connect the approximately 27.120 MWDC Dagohoy Solar Power Plant (“DSPP”) to the Visayas Grid through the proposed 69 kV Transmission Line of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (“NGCP”).
STATEMENT OF FACTS
4. DGEC is the assignee of Solar Energy Operating Contract No. 2022-06-629 dated June 28, 2022 (“SEOC”), executed between the Republic of the Philippines, through the Department of Energy (“DOE”), and DGEC and the DOE Certificate of Registration (“DOE COR”) by virtue of which DGEC was granted the right to explore, develop and utilize the solar energy resources in the Contract Area located in the Municipality of Dagohoy, Province of Bohol.
5. Pursuant to the SEOC, DGEC has engaged in the development of the DSPP, which is targeted to commence commercial operation in November 2024. DGEC shall engage in the construction, operation and ownership of the DSPP upon DOE’s approval of the assignment of SEOC to DGEC. Notably, Republic Act No. 9513, otherwise known as the “Renewable Energy Act of 2008,” (“RE Law”) mandates that RE Developers shall enjoy the benefit of priority dispatch as a generating unit utilizing an intermittent renewable energy resource.3
6. To test, commission and dispatch electricity from the DSPP, DGEC shall develop and construct a dedicated point-to-point facility which will connect the DSPP to the NGCP’s Ubay-Carmen 69 kV Transmission Line.
7. The interconnection of the DSPP to the Visayas Grid will be through tap connection along the existing NGCP Ubay- Carmen 69 kV Transmission Line using 336.4 MCM Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforce (ACSR). The said 3- phase 69 kV line is approximately 30 meters away from the proposed Substation (the “Dedicated Facility Project”). The Dedicated Facility Project will be owned, operated, maintained and used exclusively by DGEC, and later, through DGEC, for connection of the 69 kV line to the Visayas Grid.
8. The estimated cost, excluding value-added tax, of the construction of the Dedicated Facility Project is PhP158,287,390 with the following major cost components:
9. The Dedicated Facility Project will be exclusively funded by DGEC and will, therefore, not impact on any regulated charges.
10. Two (2) connection schemes were considered for the interconnection of the DSPP to the Grid, only one of which proved to be feasible and economical considering the constraints and difficulties posed by the other option.
10.1. First Option: The solar power project is in the Municipality of Dagohoy, which is in the center of Bohol Island. The NGCP has two substations in Bohol, namely Ubay and Corella Substations. The nearest NGCP SS is in Ubay, which is approximated to have 45 km distance from the site of the DSPP. Connecting to NGCP Ubay Substation will make the project unviable to develop.
10.2. Second Option: Another connection option considered to make the project viable is by connecting it to the adjacent NGCP transmission lines near the project site. There are two adjacent NGCP transmission lines that traverse the project site. The transmission line rated voltages are 138 kV and 69 kV. With consultations with the NGCP, DGEC opted to connect to the 69 kV TL via tap in connection as contained in the System Impact Study (“SIS”) and Facility Study both approved by NGCP. The distance of the power project switchyard to the nearest NGCP 69 kV transmission line is estimated to be 30 meters. Due to the constraints and difficulties in the first option, DGEC decided to pursue the second option.
11. After a thorough review of its options, DGEC has found that connecting to the Visayas Grid via the Dedicated Facility Project is the most cost-effective and viable option for the immediate connection of DSPP.
12. The Dedicated Facility Project shall be constructed by Philcantech Enterprises as the contractor of DGEC.
13. The NGCP performed a System Impact Study (“SIS”) to determine the impact of connecting the DSPP to the Luzon Grid. The connection of DSPP to the Luzon Grid was found to be technically feasible through the Dedicated Facility Project.
14. DGEC also conducted the Interconnection Facilities Study (“Facilities Study”) to ensure that the equipment to be installed will satisfy the recommendation of the SIS, and that the Dedicated Facility Project complies with the provisions of the Philippine Grid Code.
15. Moreover, the DSPP is included in the List of Indicative Power Plants in NGCP’s 2020-2040 Transmission Development Plan Final Report.
16. NGCP and DGEC are finalizing the Connection Agreement for the interconnection of the DSPP to the Visayas Grid through the Dedicated Facility Project.
17. Considering the foregoing, DGEC respectfully seeks the confirmation and approval of the Honorable Commission that the connection of the DSPP through the Dedicated Facility Project is the most viable option.
18. Upon completion of the Dedicated Facility Project and the commercial operation of the DSPP, the operation, service, and maintenance (“O&M”) services of the Dedicated Facility Project shall be undertaken by the NGCP.
19. As of date, DGEC has secured the necessary permits, licenses and authority from the appropriate regulatory agencies for the Dedicated Facility Project.
20. The following documents are herewith submitted and uploaded to the Energy Virtual One Stop Shop (“EVOSS”) with annex reference numbers in the sequence they were uploaded to EVOSS, in support of the instant Application:
ALLEGATIONS IN SUPPORT OF PRAYER FOR PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY
21. As Republic Act No. 9513, also known as the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (“RE Act”) aims to accelerate the development of the country’s renewable energy resources and increase the utilization of renewable energy, it is in the interest of the government to help RE developers such as DGEC to achieve commerciality and commence operations at the soonest practicable time. Needless to state, the construction of the Dedicated Facility Project is a prerequisite for the testing and
Rules of Practice and Procedure. PRAYER
WHEREFORE, premises considered, DGEC respectfully prays that the Honorable Commission:
1. Declare Annex “3,” Annex “5,” Annex “6a,” Annex “6b,” Annex “6c,” Annex “7,” Annex “8a,” Annex “9,” Annex “19A3b,” and Annex “19A5” as CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION within the purview of Rule IV of ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure.
2. Issue a PROTECTIVE ORDER to Annex “3,” Annex “5,” Annex “6a,” Annex “6b,” Annex “6c,” Annex “7,” Annex “8a,” Annex “9,” Annex “19A3b,” and Annex “19A5” in accordance with Rule IV of ERC Rules of Practice and Procedure.
3. Issue an Order granting PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY for DGEC to
T1 members hold their World Championship trophy.
CATALYST OF LOVE. As the nation enters the Yuletide season, former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson (middle) offers himself to be a catalyst of love and forgiveness between Olympic hero Carlos Yulo and his family in father Andrew (second from left), Angelica (third from left), Elaiza (second from right), and Eldrew (right). The Yulos have been at odds since last year. But their rift further widened when
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
PH makes history, wins overall ICF Dragon Boat World crown
By Randy Caluag
TEAMWORK made the dream work for Team Philippines as it claimed the overall title at the ICF Dragon Boat World Championships in Puerto Princesa.
Against the picturesque backdrop of the Puerto Princesa Baywalk, the Filipino paddlers bagged two more golds, five silvers and two bronze medals on the final day for an overall medal haul of 11 golds, 20 silvers, and 16 bronzes, making their mark in front of an enthusiastic hometown crowd on a calm, sunny Sunday morning. These final medals pushed the Phil-
Castigador, Ballado shine junior netfest
JAYDEN Reece Ballado and Anthony Bjorn Castigador delivered impressive performances, each capturing two titles at the Puerto Princesa Palawan Pawnshop National Juniors Tennis Championships held in Palawan over the weekend.
Their victories, including thrilling three-set matches, highlighted the tournament where they shared the MVP honors.
In the girls’ division, the No. 2 Ballado displayed her resilience in a three-set win over No. 4 Zita Clarke, clinching the 16-and-under title via a 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 decision. She then dominated Micaella Encarnacion, 6-1, 6-1, to secure the premier 18-and-under title, underscoring her status as the top-ranked player in this category.
Meanwhile, the top-seeded Castigador proved his mettle in the boys’ 14-and-U division, easing past his early opponents in straight sets and defeating Armik Serillo 6-4, 6-2 in the finals. He capped off his campaign by overcoming top seed Gavin Kraut in a nail-biting final, 1-6, 7-6(9), 6-4, in the 16-and-U finals, matching Ballado’s two-title achievement in the Philippine Tennis Association (Philta) Group I event.
The week-long tournament, presented by Dunlop and supported by Palawan Pawnshop’s nationwide talent search program initiated by president/CEO Bobby Castro, brought together young tennis talents from across the Philippines. Notable winners included local favorite Evan Bacalso, Francisco De Juan III from Iloilo, Maximus Calingasan from Balanga, Bataan, Maristella Torrecampo from Naga City, Bicol, and Ma. Caroliean Fiel from Ormoc City.
ippines to the top of the overall standings, outpacing Southeast Asian powerhouse Thailand, which finished in second with eight gold medals, and the Individual Neutral Athlete (AIN) team, which placed third with six golds, three silvers, and three bronzes.
One of the highlights was the Philippines’ hard-fought victory in the mas-
ters’ mixed 20-seater standard boat 500-meter race.
Wednesday
p.m. – Chichi DHTSI vs Savouge
AT ROCK bottom, National University staged the mother of all upsets this UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament, dismantling University of the Philippines in wireto-wire fashion, 67-47, on Sunday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.
With this three-game-skid-breaking triumph, the Bulldogs kept their flickering Final Four hopes alive at 3-8, tied with the Ateneo Blue Eagles for seventh with three games left. They are two games behind fourth-running University of Santo Tomas at 5-6.
This victory, which denied UP clinching a twice-to-beat edge this game, was a complete reversal of result from their first round matchup which the Fighting Maroons dominated, 8962.
the gold in 1 minute and 57.51 seconds, narrowly pushing the Philippines to silver with a time of 1:58.13.
The four-day event was a proud moment for the Philippine paddlers, who were competing on their home turf. Leonora “Lenlen” Escollante,
The team clocked 2 minutes and 6.34 seconds, edging out Singapore (2:06.73) and Germany (2:07.98) for the gold. The host nation also triumphed in the 40+ 20-seater women’s 2,000-meter standard boat event, clocking in at 10 minutes and 42.31 seconds, ahead of Canada (10:48.64).
The competition was fierce in the 20-seater mixed standard boat 500-meter race, where the Philippines led from the start to the final stretch. In a dramatic last 10 meters, how ever, Ukraine surged forward to claim
p.m. – VNS vs PGJC Navy Games on Wednesday (SM Mall of Asia Arena)
8 a.m. - FEU-D vs DLSZ (JHS) 10 a.m. - FEU vs DLSU (Women) 12 p.m. - NU vs UST (Women) 3:30 p.m. - FEU vs DLSU (Men) 6:30 p.m. - NU vs UST (Men)
Green Oilers flex depth, power to blast Titans
LA SALLE-ECOOIL proved too powerful for winless Chichi DHTSI, cruising to a swift victory in just 66 minutes with a 25-18, 25-6, 25-20 romp in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City on Sunday. It was La Salle’s second consecutive straight-set win in the seasonending tournament, underscoring its overwhelming edge in both manpower and talent.
Fresh off a commanding debut victory over the Martelli Meats Master Butchers, the Green Oilers displayed their depth and firepower, especially in a lopsided second set where they held the Titans to just six points.
La Salle’s ability to rotate through a roster stacked with skilled players kept Chichi DHTSI on the back foot, unable to mount any serious resistance.
While Chichi DHTSI showed some fight in the third set, La Salle’s precise execution allowed them to close out the match efficiently, maintaining its clean slate in the conference organized by Sports Vision.
The Titans absorbed their fifth straight defeat, further.
“Siguro based doon sa first set, sabi ko hindi naman ganun ‘yung laro nila. Bakit hindi nila ipakita. That made them think na dapat ayusin natin,” said La Salle head coach Jose Roque following his team’s 19-point beatdown of Chichi DHTSI in the second frame.
President of the Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragon Boat Federation (PCKDF), expressed pride in both themance and the successful organization of the event.
Joshua Magalaman put up a gamehigh 10 points with seven attacks and three blocks to lead La Salle’s charge while Vince Maglinao contributed eight points – all on attacks – in just two sets, while Noel Kampton, Eugene Gloria and Nathaniel Del Pilar each added six points to the Green
“Finally, nakuha namin ‘yung panalo namin sa second round. Finally, at least sa araw ng patay, nabuhay lahat ng mga player ko kahit papaano they delivered kung ano ‘yung kailangan naming gawin then they really enjoyed kung ano ‘yung ginagawa namin talaga,” said Bulldogs’ head coach Jeff Napa. NU rolled to a 24-8 advantage at the end of the first quarter as Lenard Santiago and Patrick Yu stepped up off the bench while UP could not make any shot, going 3-of-15 from the field and 1-of-6 from the free throw line. While fighting back from slow starts have almost become a trademark for the Fighting Maroons, the Bulldogs made sure to not deal with it this game, controlling the pace of the match to
FAR Eastern University charged into the Final Four after rallying from a set down to boot out College of Saint Benilde, 21-25, 25-20, 25-17, 25-17, in the 2024 Shakey’s Super League Collegiate Pre-season Championship quarterfinals Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
The twice-to-beat Lady Tamaraws found resolve in the next three frames behind the stellar outings from veterans Chenie Tagaod, Alyzza Devosora and Gerzel Petallo following a rusty start to remain unbeaten in seven games heading into the knockout semifinal. FEU took advantage of the Lady Blazers’ 30 errors to book a second straight semis appearance after a third place finish last year in the centerpiece tournament of the league backed by Shakey’s Pizza Parlor, GCash, Chery Tiggo, F2 Logistics, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken, Potato Corner, R and B Milk Tea and Summit Water. Devosora and Tagaod scored 15 points each with
both main gunners smashing in 14 attacks apiece for the Lady Tamaraws, the runners-up in the 2024 National Invitationals. Petallo added 10 points while Clarisse Loresco had six markers. Tagaod was instrumental in the third set, smashing timely hits to back Devosora and Loresco as FEU pulled away for good midway in the frame. The wing spiker hammered the finishing blow to close the one-hour, 53-minute encounter and cap her best scoring performance in the tournament.
“I think makakatulong siya knowing na papasok na kami sa semifinals so kailangan talagang trabahuhin and mas maging consistent pa,” Tagaod
Puerto Princesa mayor Lucilo Bayron (center) and Philippine Canoe Kayak Federation Len Escollante (extreme left) lead the celebration with players, coaches, officials and supporters.
NU’s Patrick Yu
St. Benilde’s Zam Nolasco is foiled by FEU’s Jazlyn Ellanira and Gerzel Petallo. Roman Prospero
DTI launches new probe on cement imports
By Othel V. Campos
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
launched a safeguard measures investigation on cement imports to address the persistent influx of foreign cement overwhelming the Philippine market, a move commended by the Cement Manufacturers’ Association of the Philippines (CeMAP).
The probe supports local cement producers who face stiff competition despite having an annual production capacity of 50 million tons—well above the national demand of 35 million tons.
Maria Guiza Lim, director of DTI’s Bureau of Import Services (BIS), said there is no prohibition against simultaneously enforcing the Safeguards Measures (SG) Act and the Anti-Dumping (AD) Act to protect the local cement industry.
“SG is a safety net for the surge in imports causing injury to domestic industry. In a way, providing breathing space to domestic industry to import competition. While anti-dumping, is unfair trade. It occurs when manufacturers export a product to another country at a price below the normal price with an injuring effect,” she said.
CeMAP executive director Renato Baja said the Philippine cement industry could well produce up to 50 million tons annually, above the national demand of about 35 million tons.
He said imported cement, particularly from countries like Vietnam where domestic demand is low and surplus is exported, continues to impact local manufacturers.
Vietnam remains the top cement source of the Philippines at 93 percent, followed
by China and Indonesia, with 1-percent and 5-percent share on imports.
Baja said the Philippine cement industry relies almost entirely on locallysourced raw materials, transforming them into high-quality products through Filipino expertise to support the country’s infrastructure needs.
He said given the current utilization rates of only 55 percent to 60 percent, local producers face high production costs, leading some plants to temporarily suspend operations.
“Economies of scale and high-capacity utilization are essential for cost efficiency,”
Baja said, adding that, despite challenges, the industry remains optimistic, focusing on future investments in energy-saving technologies.
Locally-produced cement adheres to Philippine National Standards (PNS), which account for the country’s unique climate, geological and seismic conditions.
DTI Secretary Cristina Roque’s timely intervention, along with the recently passed Tatak Pinoy Act, will help stabilize employment, strengthen local industries and uphold essential construction standards amid the influx of imported cement, the cement makers said.
POWER PROFILE Lance Gokongwei asks children to live out dreams
“DON’T be afraid to take risks. Live out your dreams. Be adventurous. Do your own thing. Do what you want to do. Be who you want to be. Do it.”
This is the parting shot of Lance
Yu Gokongwei, president and chief executive of JG Summit Holdings Inc. in a letter to his children, Hannah and Jacob.
In that very intimate missive, Lance lengthily talks about the family gathered around the table for dinner, a time-honored tradition held sacred and handed down from one generation to another.
He also poignantly recalls family gatherings when their parents, John Gokongwei and Elizabeth Yu, were still around.
“Now that all of his children— your aunties and I—are married with children of our own, Angkong and Ama make sure we are all together for lunch every Sunday. That’s when we share stories with each other about what is happening in our lives. That’s when we get helpful tips or give advice to each other.”
Lance, born in November 1966 in Manila, is the hijo unico of tycoon John Gokongwei Jr. He and his sisters—Robina, Marcia, Lisa, Hope and Faith—are listed among the richest in the country. He is married to Mary Joyce Leong.
Lance attended Xavier School, but completed his high school education in Singapore. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania in 1988, with a double degree in Finance and Applied Science.
Lance joined the family business as a management trainee at Universal Robina Corp. (URC), rose through the ranks and was named general manager of URC’s branded food business in the late 1990s.
He built his career from the ground up, starting by selling packed snacks to groceries and sari-sari stores, using an old Datsun sedan with a messedup air-conditioner and was getting
P2,000-monthly stipend.
Through the years, perseverance paid off handsomely as he scaled the corporate ladder.
Among his notable achievements was the introduction of C2, a readyto-drink tea that gave the mainstream soda products a run for their money.
In 2013, Lance was appointed chief executive of URC and forged partnerships with Calbee (Japan) and Danone (France) for potato chips and beverages.
He also spearheaded the acquisition of New Zealand-based cookie maker Griffin’s Foods for $609 million.
In 2021, URC acquired Malaysia’s Munchy Food Industries for $454 million, making it the nation’s leading biscuits manufacturer.
Lance was tasked by his father to put up Cebu Pacific Air, a budget airline that took off in 1996.
Unfortunately, one of its planes crashed in 1998, killing all 104 people on board. The accident failed to deter Lance’s determination, and Cebu Pacific eventually became the Philippines’ largest airline in 2010. In December 2022, Lance stepped down as president and CEO of Cebu Pacific, leaving behind a legacy of growth and success.
Among his accolades are Finance Asia’s Best CEO in 2015 and
2018 and Institutional Investors’ Best CEO in 2015. Apart from his business pursuits, Lance is also a big fan of philanthropy. As chairman of the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, Lance set in motion programs supporting the fight against COVID-19 and helping underprivileged communities.
The foundation reinforced its commitment to community empowerment and nation-building, with more than 2,500 scholars and 1,300 graduates under its wings. It has supported over 30,000 community teachers over the past 30 years. Jimmy Montejo
Lance Yu Gokongwei, president and chief executive of JG Summit Holdings Inc.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4,
PH market seen trading sideways this week ahead of US elections
THE Philippine stock market is expected to move sideways this week, with a downward bias ahead of the US presidential election and release of October inflation in the Philippines.
“Global marts are expected to hyper-fixate on Western events next week, as guesswork on the US elections conclude just in time for the Fed to deliver what is expected to be its penultimate rate cut for the year,” online brokerage firm 2TradeAsiacom. said. It noted that trade, policy and outlook would be recalibrated postNovember, which could lead to fund movement over the next few weeks.
“Expect funds to move into defensive positions as the next few weeks are rife with events that markets have to parse and digest, regardless of how supportive or adverse new data are to fundamentals,” 2TradeAsia.com said.
Meanwhile, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas earlier said inflation likely picked up in October 2024, within a range of 2 percent to 2.8 percent, from a 52-month low of 1.9 percent in September.
The BSP cited higher prices of food commodities, increased prices of domestic petroleum products and the peso depreciation as the primary sources of upward price pressures for the month.
Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. chief economist Michael Ricafort said the underlying upward trend in the past four months remains as long as the benchmark index stays above the immediate support of 6,710 to 6,880 levels.
The Philippine Stock Exchange index lost 2.34 percent last week to close at 7,142.96, while the broader all-shares index went down by 1.5 percent to 3,957.21.
Jenniffer B. Austria
DOTr cites Hyundai for speedy progress of NSCR contract
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) recognized Hyundai Engineering and Construction (Hyundai) for its impressive speed and advanced technology in managing key contract packages of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) project.
DOTr Undersecretary for Railways Jeremy Regino, during an inspection on Nov. 2, 2024, highlighted Hyundai’s swift progress, making it one of the fastest among all NSCR contract packages.
The achievement is partly due to Hyundai’s integration of cutting-edge technology to monitor project milestones and address potential issues in real time.
Hyundai project director Jeong Hyung Tae briefed Regino on the project status using a range of advanced digital tools, including CCTV monitoring, drone footage, live streaming and real-time data analysis.
These tools provide instant updates on project milestones, actual progress, percentage accomplishments, manpower deployment and overall project status.
Regino said such capabilities allow the DOTr and other implementing teams to efficiently track progress, respond swiftly to any issues, and even access real-time project data directly from their mobile phones.
“Hyundai’s application of advanced technology to monitor project progress is crucial, saving both time and energy. The ability to oversee every detail of the project, from manpower deployment to completed tasks, all at a glance, really makes a difference,” Regino said. He also acknowledged Jeong’s leadership in effectively accomplishing tasks at hand, which has been vital in driving the project forward. This streamlined approach allows Hyundai and the DOTr to stay on top of developments and maintain high standards in both quality and delivery timelines.
Awarded in September 2022, Hyundai’s joint venture with DongAh Geological Engineering Company holds a P74-billion contract to build nine elevated stations across a 32-kilometer section from Alabang to Calamba. This includes stations in Alabang, Muntinlupa, San Pedro, Pacita, Biñan, Sta. Rosa, Cabuyao, Banlic and Calamba.
wood carving industry in Paete, Laguna. Titled ‘LiLOK: Likhain at Linangin Obra mula sa Kahoy: Valuing the Wood Carving Industry in the Philippines’, the initiative seeks to boost the local carving industry by documenting its rich cultural history and mapping its value chain to recommend solutions for market improvement.
SM Prime opening 5 new malls next year
By Jenniffer B. Austria
PROPERTY developer SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SMPH) remains bullish on its residential and commercial business as it plans to open five new shopping malls in 2025 and maintain condominium launches.
SMPH president and chief executive Jeffrey Lim said in a recent interview the new malls would open next year in La Union; Zamboanga City; Laoag City; Sta. Rosa, Laguna; and an unidentified area.
This will bring SMPH’s mall portfolio in the Philippines to 92 by end2025, up from 87 this year. The group also operates seven malls in China.
Lim said most of the launches by SM Development Corp. are geared towards the provincial areas as demand for housing projects in these areas remained strong. Lim said the company is also focused on disposing its existing inventory.
“So the target is to bring it down to 12 months this year is possible from 16 percent,” Lim said.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
MSPECTRUM Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), strengthened its partnership with brandy and whisky producer Emperador Inc., supporting its move towards environmental sustainability.
The planned store opening is aligned with the group’s target to have 100 malls by 2026 or 2027.
Meanwhile, Lim said the group remains positive about the residential sector despite continued weakness in the housing market, particularly in National Capital Region amid high inflation and high-interest rate environment and following the exit of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).
Lim said that to attract homebuyers, the company continues to offer extended payment terms and other incentives.
He said the company is also looking at introducing new product lines to lure more buyers.
Lim said SMPH would not likely spend the P100-billion target capital expenditures for 2024.
Department of Transportation Undersecretary for railways Jeremy Regino (right) is briefed by Hyundai project director Jeong Hyung Tae (left) on the status of the various NorthSouth Commuter Railway (NSCR) contract packages being implemented by Hyundai and its partner DongAh Geological Engineering Company.
MSpectrum signed an agreement with Emperador’s subsidiary Emperador Distillers Inc. (EDI) to install a 640-kilowatt-peak (kWp) solar facility at EDI’s Sta. Rosa manufacturing plant in Laguna. The project is expected to generate about 832,798 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean energy annually, allowing EDI to reduce its carbon footprint by an estimated 593.12 metric tons, translating into more than 27,242 trees planted and more than 2.36 million kilometers reduced in vehicle travel per year.
“The contract signing with MSpectrum is a continuation of the transformative journey of our business. Their solar rooftop installation will not only help us achieve our sustainability goals but also significantly reduce our electricity costs. We are excited about our partnership with MSpectrum as we continue to explore more solar solutions for our facilities to maximize our energy efficiency and continue our commitment to a greener future,” EDI president and chief executive Winston Co said.
MSpectrum said the project with the world’s largest brandy producer demonstrates the solar company’s continuing pursuit to help companies achieve more efficient and sustainable operations.
By Darwin G. Amojelar
GLOBE Telecom Inc. said over the weekend it rolled out an energy-efficient technology for LTE and 5G network expansion.
The telecom arm of the Ayala Group said it started deploying 32T32R Massive MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technology for enhanced LTE capacity and 5G expansion in 200 dense urban areas, set for completion within the year.
The cutting-edge solution from vendor partners including Nokia boosts efficiency and reduces energy consumption, marking a significant step in Globe’s commitment to increasing network capacity and delivering world-class service while minimizing its environmental impact.
“We are constantly innovating to build a more sustainable and efficient telecom infrastructure across the Philippines. The 32T32R Massive MIMO deployment allows us to provide high-
quality LTE and 5G services with significantly lower energy consumption and a reduced carbon footprint,” said Globe head of service planning and engineering Joel Agustin.
“It demonstrates how we can combine advanced technology with sustainability,” he said.
The 32T32R Massive MIMO system balances performance and sustainability with fewer antennas and reduced power consumption. It offers sufficient capacity for most of
mWELL, the Philippines’ health and wellness mega app announced an enhanced collaboration with Metro Pacific Health (MPH), the country’s largest private hospital network. The partnership reflects a shared commitment towards providing high-quality, compassionate healthcare services to Filipinos. MWell app users can gain seamless access to MPH’s extensive range of health and wellness services nationwide. The two groups formalized a strategic referral partnership aimed at broadening healthcare services to Filipinos in a recent signing ceremony at the Metro Pacific Investments Corp. The event highlighted innovative solutions of the mWell platform in integrating digital healthcare services with MPH’s established hospital network. “We are harnessing the combined
Globe’s needs and is an ideal solution for expanding LTE and 5G networks in urban areas.
The system’s beamforming and multi-user MIMO capabilities allow it to direct signals to multiple users simultaneously, increasing network capacity and quality while maintaining energy efficiency. Each 32T32R site is estimated to save about 200 kWh of energy per month, cutting carbon emissions by 1.7 metric tons annually.
strength and resources of the group to service the health and wellness needs of Filipinos. Through technology, we are able to widen the reach of our hospital services and provide the kind of services that our people need in as many areas as possible. mWell’s fully integrated digital platform enables us to make quality healthcare accessible and more convenient for our countrymen,” said mWell chairman and MPIC chairman and chief executive Manuel Pangilinan. Chaye Cabal-Revilla,
to Filipinos.
BUSINESS
PCIC releasing P667-m funds to 86,066 Kristine-hit farmers
By Othel V. Campos
THE Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) announced over the weekend that it may soon release at least P666.5 million in indemnity funds to support farmers affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.
PCIC president JB Jovy Bernabe said a rapid assessment of PCIC-insured farms identified 86,066 farmers impacted by the storm across ten regions, with the majority in Central Luzon, the Bicol Region and Mimaropa (Region 4B). The primary losses were in rice, high-value crops and fisheries, with estimated insurance payouts of P413.6 million for rice, P167.9 million for
“We have set aside an initial P667
million for insurance payments to around 86,066 farmers,” Bernabe said. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. urged the PCIC to expedite the processing of insurance claims and maximize assistance to help farmers recover swiftly from the disaster. He also directed the PCIC to prepare for the disastrous impact of super typhoon Leon.
“The speed of recovery in agriculture after a disaster depends on how quickly the government can deliver financial aid and inputs to farmers and fisherfolk. That’s why I’ve instructed all agencies under the Department of Agriculture, including attached corporations like the NFA [National Food Authority] and PCIC, to conduct swift needs assessments so help can be delivered without delay,” Tiu Laurel said.
India’s Adani slashes electricity to Bangladesh
DHAKA—Indian conglomerate Adani slashed cross-border electricity supply to Bangladesh by half due to some $850 million in unpaid bills, power officials said Sunday, with Dhaka scrambling to boost production to stem blackouts.
“We are trying to meet the gap by running other plants,” Rezaul Karim, chairman of the state-run Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), told AFP on Sunday.
Dimalanta pushes EPIRA law amendments
By Alena Mae S. Flores
ENERGY Regulatory Commission (ERC) chairperson and chief executive Monalisa Dimalanta proposed amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 to strengthen the agency and avoid any regulatory lag.
Dimalanta said over the weekend a complaint against, removal or suspension of a public official could “exacerbate the delay instead of improve or fast-track resolution.”
“While we understand the wisdom behind mechanisms for checks and balances in the bureaucracy, certain processes can result in serious disruptions in regulatory work that can worsen instead of improve the sectoral conditions subject of the complaint,” Dimalanta said.
Dimalanta was recently re-instated to her position after the Office of the Ombudsman issued an order dated Oct. 22, 2024 stating that “after a thorough evaluation of the present case records, this office finds that the ground which justifies the continued imposition of preventive suspension no longer exists.”
The Ombudsman said, “therefore, the preventive suspension is no longer necessary.”
“In more recent laws — like the Philippine Competition Act — the legislature has positively addressed this by granting qualified immunity from suit to the regulator for specific actions. This can perhaps be considered as well in the EPIRA amendments,” she said.
Adani’s coal-fired Godda plant in India’s Jharkhand state—a $2 billion project including transmission lines that opened last year -- usually supplies between seven to 10 percent
of Bangladesh’s baseload power demand of 13 GW.
But Adani had warned Dhaka in September to settle its bills, which had surged to around $850 million.
At the time, Adani called it an “unsustainable situation, where we are meeting not only our supply commitments but also those to our lenders and suppliers, despite rising receivables.”
There was no immediate comment
from Adani on Sunday.
Bangladesh, a nation of some 170 million people, is struggling to find dollars to make the payments.
Its new leaders are focused on the political fallout of a student-led revolution in August that toppled autocratic ex-leader and close Indian ally Sheikh Hasina.
“We are discussing the issue with them (Adani), and informed them that it is not possible to make the total
POWER retailer Manila Electric Co. forecasts a 6-percent sales growth in 2024 on the back of strong demand from the residential segment, a top executive said over the weekend.
“I think for 2024, at the start of the year, we forecasted around 4.7 percent. Now we are seeing 6 percent, so we’ll end up the year with around 53,350 plus gigawatt-hours,” Meralco senior vice president and chief revenue officer Ferdinand Geluz said.
“That’s technically close to 3,000 GWh additional from 2023. The drivers would still be high growth in residential, followed by commercial, and a slight, modest growth in terms
of industrial segment,” he said.
Meralco posted a 7-percent consolidated distribution utility energy sales volume growth in the first nine months of 2024 to 40,872 GWh from 38,164 GWh in the same period in 2023.
Volumes of Meralco and Clark Electric Distribution Corp. increased by 7 percent and 5 percent, respectively.
The residential segment maintained a double-digit growth of 10 percent to 14,758 GWh from 13,363 GWh, driven by sustained energization of new accounts and higher per capita consumption, post-pandemic.
Meralco said the sales growth
SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian
said over the weekend that the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) decision to reset the power distribution rate for key distribution utilities (DUs) like Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) could lead to a higher refund for consumers.
“I believe that the refund from Meralco would be significantly higher once the ERC completes resetting the distribution rate under the 5th regulatory period. It is expected to be bigger than the P16 billion that Meralco is saying,” Gatchalian said in a statement.
Meralco expects a P16-billion refund once the ERC issues a decision on its 5th regulatory reset, covering the period of 2022-2026. The refund
was also underpinned by persisting warmer temperatures despite the transition to the rainy season.
Commercial sales volumes saw an 8-percent increase, climbing to 15,261 GWh from 14,122 GWh last year despite the exit of offshore gaming operators and the continuing remote work arrangements.
It said energy consumption in real estate was buoyed by surging office occupancy rates from mixed-use developments, while growth in retail, restaurants and hotels was anchored on new mall openings, increased leisure activities and higher foot traffic in food outlets. Alena Mae S. Flores
represents the difference between the actual weighted average price and the maximum average price, or the highest allowable costs that can be charged to consumers.
Gatchalian said Meralco’s weighted average cost of capital (WACC), a factor in setting distribution rates, has remained unchanged since 2015. The current WACC for Meralco stands at 14.97%.
The ERC has reportedly ruled that Meralco’s 5th regulatory period (5RP), covering 2022 to 2026, is already lapsed. During a lapsed period, consumers pay charges that are no longer reflective of the current cost of service while awaiting the approval of a new rate. Alena Mae S. Flores
payment in a single month,” Karim added. “But we are trying to increase the payment size gradually”. Karim said Bangladesh paid $97 million to Adani in October, which was “higher than the previous three month’s payment.”
Demand is usually lower in November, when Bangladesh enters a relatively cooler period after months of blistering heat when consumers rely on energy-hungry air conditioners to keep cool. AFP
NATIONAL ID BRIEFING.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) briefs Senator Aquilino Pimentel III (right) on the National ID during
RE developers call for parameters on contract cancelation
RENEWABLE energy developers called for an established set of parameters from the Department of Energy (DOE) when weeding out non-performing service contracts.
Developers of Renewable Energy for AdvanceMent (DREAM) president Jay Layug and Philippine Solar and Storage Energy Alliance (PSSEA) chair Tetchi Capellan welcomed the DOE’s move, but asked the agency to consider the delays brought about by non-action of government agency.
The DOE said it planned to terminate at least 105 RE projects over non-compliance with project timelines.
“I agree for the DOE to review and clean out non performing contracts. This will free up grid access and allow serious developers with to implement the projects. But, there has to be some parameters on the performance review particularly the delays or lack of action on the part of government agencies that prevent contracts from progressing. Accountability has to be clearly established,” Capellan said. Layug said the private sector appreciates the efforts of the DOE to streamline service contract applications and monitor non-performing RE developers who were given periods to develop their projects.
“As the government actively pushes for RE, we hope however that the DOE considers the following: one, terminate only those contracts that are indeed non-performing in terms of predevelopment and securing permits [those which have no activity whatsoever]; two, consider lack of or insufficient transmission capacity on the targeted commercial operations date as acts of force majeure and accordingly adjust the RE contract term,” he said. Alena Mae S.
Flores
SUYAM WEAVING. Delegates of the Philippine Experience Program (PEP) Caraga on Oct. 30, 2024, witness a vibrant showcase celebrating the art of Suyam weaving. They immersed themselves in the cultural significance of Suyam, showcased on stage of the Datu Lipus Makapandong Cultural Center (DLMCC).
his visit to the BSP Security Plant Complex (SPC) in Quezon City on Oct. 4 2024. BSP Deputy Governor Elmore Capule (center) and assistant governor Mary Anne Lim (left) led the briefing for the senator and his team.
ENGINEERS CONFAB. Department of
First PH dedicated satellite to be launched in December
By Othel V. Campos
FILIPINO firm Orbits Satellite Corp. announced the launch of Agila 1, the Philippines’ first dedicated satellite, on Dec. 20, 2024 from Cape Canaveral, Florida in the United States.
The launch is set to mark a significant advancement in the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure, catering solely to Filipino communities and government sectors.
“Unlike other continental satellites that serve dozens of countries, Agila 1 will be exclusively dedicated to the Philippines,” said Orbits chairman and chief executive Augusto Baculio.
geostationary orbit, rotating with the Earth daily, offering distinct operational and cost efficiencies compared to the multi-orbit systems used by other providers.
potentially benefiting 10 to 20 million Filipinos. The satellites will extend connectivity to public facilities, including hospitals, ports, airports, police stations and large bus terminals.
IN BRIEF
“Our hub and command center is located in Subic, ensuring secured lines and accountability. This allows us to support even the most classified communications for institutions like the Office of the President, National Defense and COMELEC [Commission on Election],” said Baculio. Once launched, Agila 1 will undergo a month-long positioning period, moving toward its designated orbital slot to begin operations by January 2025.
State-owned firms’ subsidies decline 23%
By Darwin G. Amojelar
SUBSIDIES to state-run firms declined 23.2 percent in the first nine months of 2024 from a year ago, the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) said over the weekend.
Data from BTr showed that subsidies from January to September amounted to P105.24 billion, down from P137.12 billion in the same period last year.
Subsidies in September amounted to P18.21 billion, also lower than P21.26 billion in the same period last year.
The lion’s share of the subsidies released to state-run firms in September, amounting to P9.33 billion, went to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PHIC) This was followed by the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) with P5.49 billion, National Electrification Administration, P1.01 billion; Philippine Crop Insurance Corp., P353 million; Philippine Heart Center, P348 million; Social Housing Finance Corp., P284 million; Philippine National Railways, P171 million; and National Power Corp., P144 million.
The BTr earlier reported a P273.3billion budget deficit in September 2024, slightly higher than the previous year’s P250.9 billion deficit, according to the Bureau of Treasury (BTr).
The total deficit in the first nine months narrowed by 1.35 percent yearon-year to P970.2 billion. It was 9.08 percent short of the P1.1-trillion program for the nine-month period and represented 65.36 percent of the P1.5 trillion revised full-year program.
The satellite will maintain a
The deployment of Agila 1 and a second satellite, slated for launch in late 2025, is set to transform access to internet and telecommunications services across the Philippines, particularly in underserved rural and remote areas.
Orbits aims to cover 10,000 sites per satellite, targeting isolated barangays, islands and highland areas.
“Our goal is to reach communities in areas like Limasawa Island, Sagada, and Bukidnon, serving populations of around 2,000 to 3,000,” Baculio said.
Collectively, the two satellites intend to connect up to 20,000 sites,
“With our satellite service, passengers at ports can conveniently purchase e-tickets, alleviating long wait times and bringing essential services closer to the people,” Baculio said.
Orbits is also working with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to support the government’s initiative to provide free internet nationwide.
Through its free Wi-Fi program, DICT aims to purchase satellite capacity from Orbits, allowing greater connectivity for public spaces and potentially reducing internet costs for households to as low as P300 monthly.
PH plays major role in Wells Fargo’s global operations, customer service
THE Philippines plays an important role in supporting the global operations of Wells Fargo, one of the largest banks in the United States.
Wells Fargo Philippines country head Mike Whyte made this statement as the company marks its 13th year in the country.
“Wells Fargo Philippines plays a vital role in supporting the global operations of the bank by providing technological, operational and back-office services,” Whyte said in
an email interview. “With the Philippines and India region as a key hub, we’ve been able to drive efficiencies and foster innovation across the enterprise.”
Whyte, a seasoned operations leader, has held various roles in the financial services industry. He moved to the Philippines in 2018 to help grow American Express International Inc.’s servicing footprint.
As country head of Wells Fargo in the Philippines, Whyte works closely
StB Giga Factory investing P10b in new PH facilities
STB GIGA Factory disclosed plans to establish two additional facilities in the Philippines to enhance its battery manufacturing capabilities, with an estimated total investment of P10 billion by 2030.
StB Giga head of business Development Paulo Salvador said the growing domestic demand for advanced energy storage solutions supports the country’s shift towards sustainable energy.
“Due to this demand, we are establishing a local entity and planning two more facilities, with a target of reaching 2 gigawatt-hours [GWh] by 2030, operating around the clock,” he said
over the weekend.
StB Giga’s initial P5-billion investment paved the way for the construction of a newly-inaugurated plant, equipped with an initial capacity of 200 to 300 megawatt-hours (MWh).
The facility aims to increase production capacity to 600 MWh within two years to address local market demands.
Located at the Filinvest Innovation Park in New Clark City, Tarlac, the facility was inaugurated on Sept. 30, 2024.
“This investment sends a message to the world, [that] the Philippines is now ready to innovate [and] lead to
become a go-to destination for hightech, high-impact investments,” Salvador said.
The plant, funded by Australiabased StB Capital Partners, will generate about 2,500 direct and indirect jobs, including 500 positions focused on engineering, technical, finance and administrative roles, aligning with the government’s mission to address the nation’s “brain drain” by providing high-skilled job opportunities locally.
StB Giga anticipates contributing over P5 billion annually to the local economy, with revenue streams benefiting a network of businesses, suppliers and partners. Othel V. Campos
with the I&P region leadership team and global leadership to execute strategy across businesses.
Wells Fargo International Solutions LLC – Philippines is a critical component of Wells Fargo Bank N.A.’s strategy to leverage distinct advantages in doing business globally. It provides operational, functional and technical expertise to support Wells Fargo’s operations, knowledge services and corporate support teams.
“Our primary focus for the future
remains two-fold: to continue driving operational excellence and to enhance the customer experience by leveraging technology and innovation,” Whyte said. “Moreover, we’re committed to further investing in our people.”
“Leading Wells Fargo Philippines through change involves a commitment to transparency, inclusivity and fostering a culture where collaboration is at the heart of everything we do,” he said.
Roderick T. dela Cruz
FINANCE Secretary Ralph Recto urged British inves-
tors to consider expanding their financial integration with the Philippines as the country will join JP Morgan’s Bond Index soon.
“This is expected to boost investor interest in Philippine government bonds, potentially lowering borrowing costs and improving market liquidity,” Recto said in a keynote address at the Philippine Economic Briefing (PEB) in London on Oct. 31, 2024.
The PEB in London served as a platform to highlight the Philippine government’s current initiatives to further improve the ease of doing business and fast-track economic progress.
He said the Euro market has been a vital source of financing for the Philippines.
Recto said among the strategic investment advantages of the Philippines is its vibrant labor force with a young, well-educated and English-speaking workforce.
“If there is one country that can stand witness to the best that the Philippines can give the world, it is most probably the United Kingdom. The presence of around 250,000 Filipinos here in the UK today is a testament
Wells Fargo Philippines country head Mike Whyte leads the celebration of Family Day at Manila Ocean Park. Wells Fargo focuses on creating an inclusive and supportive environment that fosters growth for all
Source: Mike Whyte’s LinkedIn Page
OPEN GOV’T. Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, chair of the Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP), convenes notable women leaders for a panel discussion on the integration of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda into the open government framework.
Homeqube to transform PH housing
SINGAPORE’S
Homeqube Pte.
Ltd. is boosting the Philippine housing sector by offering innovative solutions that could make homebuilding faster and affordable for millions of Filipinos.
Homeqube is leveraging advanced technologies to streamline the homebuilding process with an all-in-one platform.
The Philippines has a huge backlog of 6.5 million residential units, but only 140,000 houses are produced each year,
Homeqube through the use of blockchain and artificial intelligence, plans to disrupt the traditional home development business model.
Ambitious plan
Homeqube plans to construct 1,000 houses in its first year of operations using the group’s platform, Home Delivery Service online, that will allow every Filipino to build on any type of acquired land—from beach lots, and farm fields, to residential subdivisions.
The service available on its website covers the permitting phase, the acquisition of materials over two to five months and a swift 30-day installation and delivery.
“We want 1,000 orders,” said Homeqube founder and chief executive Jose Paolo Calma ina recent media briefing in Makati City.
With Homeqube’s home kits, a solidly-built house can be completed for as low as P1 million on a 35-square meter lot as long as the buyer has access to land.
The company plans to launch the platform this month. Calma said the abundant use of steel and cement for homebuilding, which is too bulky and complex for transportation, leads to elevated land prices as demand shoots up with more people moving to urban areas.
He said these traditional building materials also expose homeowners to a longer lead time of about 18 months, and more expensive project costs due to logistics and middleman fees.
Faster construction
With Calma’s extensive expertise in construction, Homeqube is also introducing innovative building materials, including glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP).
This lightweight yet durable material facilitates easy configurations and adaptations, significantly reducing carbon emissions and the environmental footprint of building projects. GFRP can withstand harsh weather conditions, including winds of up to
‘Upsized’ condo living in Cavite
310 kilometers per hour, and is rustproof, making it suitable for transport by boat. This adaptability is crucial for reaching remote island communities. To support this, Homeqube invested in a carbon kevlar cargo boat to ensure efficient delivery.
These building materials would also allow easy configurations and adaptations, veering away from large-scale and costly construction and renovations.
“By choosing materials that regenerate, we can create a more resilient
and adaptable environment, ensuring that our built environment remains a testament to our evolving needs. In short, we can build regenerative homes anywhere and our homes can follow where we go,” Calma said. Through its innovative approach, Homeqube is not just setting out to meet its ambitious goal of 1,000 houses, but it is also establishing a new standard for sustainable, adaptable living spaces that cater to the needs of the future. Jenniffer B. Austria
FILRT awarded the ‘Most Sustainable REIT’ at Asia Pacific REIT summit
FILINVEST REIT Corp. (FILRT) proudly represented the Philippines as it clinched the ‘Most Sustainable REIT’ award within its market capitalization category (under $500 million) at the well-attended 9th Annual REITs and Real Estate Investment Summit Asia Pacific 2024™ held in Singapore.
PUEBLO de Oro (PDO) is committed to creating flood-free communities in Pampanga, ensuring that all its projects in are flood-free areas. The company’s carefully planned developments, including Horizon Residences, La Aldea Fernandina, and Park Place Pampanga, are strategically situated on elevated ground to provide a secure and comfortable living environment. Pampanga, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, robust economy, and strategic location, stands as a prime destination for development and investment. The province hosts a variety of industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and information technology, offering significant opportunities for growth and job creation. Despite its tremendous growth potential, Pampanga faces environmental challenges, particularly frequent flooding, particularly in the town Masantol, Macabebe, and San Fernando.
Pueblo de Oro (PDO) recognizes the importance of location in choosing a residential property, especially in flood-prone Pampanga. For almost 30 years, Pueblo de Oro has been implementing flood
“This additional space comes at no extra cost— imagine upgrading from a studio to a one-bedroom unit simply by purchasing a studio,” explained Gigi Alcantara, president of developer Famtech Properties Inc. This value proposition is especially appealing for those looking to invest for rental potential or to settle down in a suburban environment.
“In line with One Lancaster Park’s unique proposition of ‘metro, nature in one’, we are bringing the cosmopolitan urban lifestyle of loft living within Cavite’s refreshing suburban setting,” said Alcantara.
Pueblo de Oro showcases flood-free developments in Pampanga
The Pinnacle Group International, in collaboration with Sustainable Technology Center (Singapore) Limited, brought together over 150 industry leaders, investors, and innovators in the REIT sector all over Asia Pacific.
The REIT summit featured the Asia Pacific Best of the Breeds REITs & Real Estate Investment Awards 2024 to honor outstanding companies and REIT managers with the highest standards and performance for leadership, financial expertise and innovation toward having a sustainable impact on the REIT industry, including those from mature REIT environments like Singapore and Malaysia.
“Receiving the ‘Most Sustainable REIT’ award is an honor that elevates our role in advancing sustainable practices within the industry,” said Maricel Brion-Lirio, president and chief executive officer of FILRT.
“This recognition underscores our commitment to integrating sustainability into our core strategies, demonstrating that environmental responsibility and profitability can coexist. By prioritizing ecofriendly practices, we enhance our portfolio’s value while positively impacting the communities we serve,” she added.
The winners of the ‘Most Sustainable REIT’ awards were evaluated based on exceptional environmental initiatives, comprehensive sustainability reporting and high transparency, and significant community impact. The awards were presented by Professor Ong Seow Eng from the National University of Singapore who shared the sector’s continued evolution through sustainable practices and technological advancements.
FILRT bested other comparable companies by size from Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, and Taiwan. FILRT is one of only two Philippine companies that were recognized during the awards ceremony.
One Lancaster Park is master planned to offer urban conveniences amid a nature-rich setting in Cavite
JP Calma, Homeqube System architect, founder and chief executive officer
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
By Angelica Villanueva
ABS-CBN’s talent management arm, Star Magic, continues to expand its reach into the theater world by officially welcoming some of the generation’s top theater actors into its growing roster of artists.
During the Star Magic Spotlight press conference on Oct. 16, ABS-CBN’s Head of TV Production Lauren Dyogi introduced Julia Santiago, Vyen Villanueva, Jude Hinumdum, Miah Canton, Vino Mabalot, Lance Reblando, Teetin Villanueva, and Meann Espinosa as the latest additions to the Star Magic family.
Dyogi expressed admiration for each theater actor, praising their dedication and passion for the craft. “I just wanted to tell everybody—and openly say—that I’m a fan of each one of you,” Dyogi said. “I saw them perform on stage, and their dedication is truly impressive. It’s not just about the hard work, but also the genuine passion they bring to every performance. They are amazing performers, true artists, embodying the values of an artist.”
Dyogi also thanked the theater actors for supporting their fellow Kapamilya artists in exploring the performing arts and expressed confidence in their abilities to keep the theater community “alive.”
“Thank you for welcoming your fellow Star Magic artists who tried stage acting. You made it a wonderful experience for them,” Dyogi stated.
“Again, welcome to Star Magic. I know I won’t be disappointed wherever you perform. We look forward to creating more productions together, knowing you’ll play an essential role in ensuring theater
SHOWBIZ
Star Magic welcomes top theater talents, expands into musical prod
stays vibrant, with Star Magic artists as part of a larger artistic community that now includes musical theater.”
Reflecting on Dyogi’s words, the newly signed actors admitted to feeling pressure but saw it as motivation to showcase their talents.
“Definitely, there’s a reputation to uphold to ensure quality—that’s what ‘Tatak Star Magic’ stands for,” said Vyen. “But good pressure is
OGIE Alcasid is bringing a blend of classic OPM and contemporary pop to the stage as he returns to Newport World Resorts for his fan-favorite sing-along concert, OGIEOKE 2 Reimagined, on Nov. 30 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. This year, Alcasid will be joined by special guests BINI, JM Dela Cerna, and Marielle Montellano
Following the success of last year’s OGIEOKE concert, the veteran singer-songwriter promises an evening filled with fun, laughter, and karaoke excitement. Fans will have the opportunity to sing along to Alcasid’s beloved hits, including “Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang” and “Nandito Ako,” in what is expected to be a laid-back, musical gathering. BINI, often referred to as the “Nation’s Girl Group,” will lead the lineup of special guests, performing a selection of both classic OPM songs and modern pop hits. They will be joined by the talented duo of JM Dela Cerna and Marielle Montellano, who will deliver a combination of soulful duets and powerful solo performances.
Tickets for the event are available
for
and P1,500 for Bronze. For ticket inquiries, contact James Edward Rodriguez at 0917 829 2173, Paulo San Jose at 0917 810 5031, Raf Sangco at 0917 807 9387, or JhayR dela Cruz at 0917 818 9847. For more information about OGIEOKE 2 Reimagined, visit the Newport World Resorts website.
important; it keeps us excited to showcase ourselves.”
“Yes, there is pressure because we all stand for something and represent a community. Star Magic has a reputation, but we wouldn’t be here if we had nothing to offer,” Lance added.
Veteran theater actor Meann, who also teaches acting workshops, highlighted the unique skills
required for each medium—whether theater, television, or film. “Acting in theater demands a specific set of skills, but the same is true for television and film. Newcomers to TV often amaze me with how they convey so much with minimal expressions,” she noted.
Several of these actors appeared in 2023’s Tabing Ilog: The Musical and are set to reprise their roles in the rerun this November.
THE Movie and Television Review and Classification Board
(MTRCB) supports nationwide Halloween film festivals, which offer diverse horror selections based on ageappropriateness to guide families and viewers.
SM Cinema’s “Sine Sindak Ika-5 Yugto” showcases Filipino thriller Nanay, Tatay, Tenement. They are rated R-13 for viewers aged 13 and above.
Pasahero and The Thorn Sengkolo for viewers aged 16 and above. Crystalsky Multimedia drew R-13 and R-16 ratings to suit different viewers.
Robinsons Movieworld’s “Horrorkada Fest” presents 13 Exorcisms and The Haunting at St. Joseph’s got R-13 ratings, while Ghostland were rated R-16.
Ayala Malls Cinemas revisits horror classics with The Lost Boys 13), Trick ‘r Treat (R-16), and Corpse Bride (PG). PG requires toddlers to be accompanied by adults.
“The agency is committed to fostering Responsableng Panonood by providing clear, age-appropriate classifications,” said MTRCB chair and CEO Lala Sotto-Antonio “We encourage families to enjoy the Halloween films by observing viewing rules and movie
Mike Johnson and Tim Burton’s ‘The Corpse Bride’ receives
The new Star Magic artists with ABS-CBN Head of TV Production Lauren Dyogi
By Abigail Adriatico
DRESSED in a stunning red dress that perfectly hugged her figure, beauty queen Nicole Cordoves stepped in front of the cameras, her smile capturing the attention of the entire room. With her striking presence and warm demeanor, it’s no surprise she’s been named ambassador for the inaugural Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global (MMCG).
Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global is a pageant celebrating Chinatowns worldwide, spearheaded by CHiNOY TV. This global cultural movement aims to showcase the diverse backgrounds of its participants, represent their dual cultural identities, and promote inclusivity.
During the media launch which announced Cordoves as the pageant’s first ambassador, the Miss Grand International 2016 1st runner-up shared how grateful she was to take on the
Empowering Chinatown communities all around the world
opportunity to celebrate not only her own Chinese and Filipino heritage but also those of mixed Chinese descent all around the world.
“I think with platforms like these we can push [the representation of the Chinese community] further. To hear stories of other candidates globally, I think that would make the narrative surrounding Chinese culture richer,” the beauty queen said.
As an ambassador, Cordoves is focused on supporting the candidates as well as collaborating with the organization.
“I want to be there for the candidates. This is the first time we are doing it. So we are on a blank page. I just want to be in the moment because I haven’t experienced [what a pageant] with Chinese mixed candidates with different nationalities so that will be an interesting experience,” she said.
Apart from the chance for representation, Cordoves’ stint as an ambassador also serves as a full circle moment for her as she first began her pageantry journey at the Miss Chinatown competition in 2014 where she took home the crown ten years ago.
Her time at the pageant as well as her overall presence as a beauty queen eventually caught the attention of Fil-Chi Media Productions Inc. President and CEO Alvin Kingson Tan , which led him to choose her as the first ambassador for the inaugural MMCG.
Gawad madiskarte honors Innovator moms
WOMEN entrepreneurs, particularly mothers, were celebrated for their contributions to family and business at the Gawad Madiskarte 2024 Awards, held at the Seda Hotel in Bonifacio Global City. The annual event, organized by Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) in partnership with PLDT Home, highlighted the strength and innovation of mothers balancing home, personal growth, and business.
PLDT Chief Operating Officer
Menardo “Butch” Jimenez
commended the awardees, emphasizing the unique role of mompreneurs. “You work wonders in three different worlds: the world of home, your own personal growth, and the world of business,” Jimenez said, addressing the awardees.
“You’re doing three times the work that men are doing.” He added that this year’s winners inspire other women to embrace entrepreneurship, which he believes will positively impact the country. Founded during the pandemic,
MMPH has grown to 191,000 members, a community where mothers support each other in starting and sustaining businesses. This year’s awards focused on sustainable practices, a priority for PLDT.
“Sustainability is not only about caring for the environment but also about gender empowerment,” said PLDT Chief Sustainability Officer Melissa Vergel De Dios. “This program allows women to dream, take action, and make a difference in society.”
“I was very impressed with Niclose because first and foremost, she doesn’t look Chinese. She’s not your typical Chinoy who is short and fair-skinned. But when I talk to her [in Chinese], she’s very good at it. She appreciates her Chinese values. That’s the kind of candidate or a face that we’re looking for in Mr. and Miss Chinatown Global,” said Tan.
Adding to this, MMCG Pageant Director Frances Cham Chua said that the competition is open to male and female candidates of mixed Chinese descent between the ages of 18 and 30 from the Philippines as well as other parts of the world.
“MMCG is open for candidates from around the world so we are inviting candidates from diverse backgrounds like ChineseFilipinos, Chinese-Americans, Chinese-Malaysians to come and join us and share their unique experiences and stories,” said Chua.
“We believe that this blend of our Chinese culture with their local traditions can create a deeper understanding of what it means to be Chinese today,” she added.
As part of the celebrations for the upcoming 15th anniversary of CHiNOY TV, the Mr. and Miss Chinatown Global pageant is set to run from Jan. 12, 2025 until Jan. 25, 2025. It will culminate in a Winner’s Night at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, which will coincide with the celebration of the Chinese New Year.
Chairwoman Ermelita Valdeavilla of the Philippine Commission on Women underscored the significance of empowering women. Describing the Tagalog term madiskarte as encompassing resourcefulness and resilience, she said, “Madiskarte is a powerful word.” She noted it takes multiple English words—such as strategic, inventive, resourceful, and proactive—to convey its full meaning.
Diverse range of businesses represented The 2024 Gawad Madiskarte Awards recognized eight women for their entrepreneurial achievements in categories for start-up and scale-up businesses, as well as special awards. More than 100 applications were submitted, with 17 finalists selected. Judges included industry leaders such as Jimenez, SM Supermalls’ EVP for Marketing Jonjon San Agustin, designer and mompreneur Tweetie de Leon, Mayumi Organics founder Angelica Chongco, journalist Pia Hontiveros, and GMA Films President Annette Gozon-Valdes
In the Diskarteng Angat category, Stephanie Morales won for her startup Pixellab, a self-portrait studio, while Ricca Cruz del Rosario was honored for her scale-up business, HTP Clothing, which has grown from selling her personal clothes to a brand that moves about 30,000 pieces a month.
In the Diskarteng Eco-Friendly category, Melissa Blanca Moscoso’s Xavier & Xandrie was recognized for repurposing discarded flour sacks into bags, and Bianca Mateum’s Isay
Bags won for upcycling waste into storage items.
The Diskarteng May-Puso award went to Avon Tuazon Obedoza, who started Bahay Ugnayan Educational Services, an after-school tutoring center, and Alona Bazar Laylo for her diaper brand, Jobiba Baby Diapers and Wipes.
Each winner in the main categories received P100,000 in cash, Lalamove vouchers worth P10,000, and appliances. Special awards for entrepreneurial spirit Among the special awards, the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award went to Jenilyn P. Sicabalo for her MP Nieva Flower Shop, which grows abaca for bouquet wraps. Sicabalo received P50,000, Lalamove vouchers, and kitchen appliances.
MK Bertulfo, founder of FH Moms, received both the Diskarteng Digital and Diskarteng Homebiz awards for her work helping micro and small enterprises navigate digital business strategies. Her training programs provide mothers with skills in e-commerce and online business. Bertulfo won a total of P100,000, along with vouchers and appliances. In closing, Jimenez expressed gratitude to the MMPH community for demonstrating resilience and mutual support.
“Mompreneurs are showing bravery and perseverance in running their home businesses and have continually supported each other in the journey to growth and success,” he said.
Philippine Commission on Women Chairwoman Ermelita Valdeavilla
PLDT Chief Operating Officer Butch Jimenez
Gawad Madiskarte 2024 winners with their trophies
The winners of Gawad Madiskarte 2024 with the judges
PLDT Chief Sustainability Officer Melissa Vergel de Dios
From left: MMCG Creative Director Mika Reins, MMCG Pageant Director Frances Cham Chua, MMCG Ambassador Nicole Cordoves, and CHiNOY TV President and CEO Alvin Kingson Tan
Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global Ambassador Nicole Cordoves
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
C4 LIFE
TSavoring the heart of Lanson Place
HIS latest addition to SM’s roster of top-of-the-line, world-class accommodations invites guests to enjoy a serene oasis amid the vibrant energy of the Mall of Asia complex. Ideally situated for discerning guests, it offers access to the country’s largest commercial and entertainment hub while providing the warmth and luxurious comfort of home for a relaxing retreat at day’s end.
Since Lanson Place Mall of Asia opened, I’ve always been impressed by its heartfelt guest service and captivated by its various activities and events. The latest, the After Dark Fiesta and Calavera Festival at the hotel’s Cyan Modern Kitchen, took place the weekend before last and was lively and colorful. Inspired by Mexico’s grand Dia de los Muertos celebration, the restaurant served an array of Mexican dishes and free-flowing craft tequila cocktails, all set to live music.
As part of the sumptuous buffet, bold new blends were available to guests who wanted to try out the festive energy of the Calavera Festival’s flavorful cocktails--the tangy sweetness of the Tamarindita, the kick of the Bala del Cañon, the mystery of the Moradita, and the uniqueness of many others.
The buffet spread overflowed with many delectable favorites that pleased foodies to the max. There were Camarones A La Diabla and the refreshing Ceviche together with many others for appetizers. The mains had my favorite Roasted Suckling Pig with Mole Sauce, together with all kinds of shellfish anyone can hanker for---lobsters,
prawns, crabs, shrimps, oysters, etc.
The dessert table had loads of calorific treats that gave me a hard time deciding which one was worth violating my doctor’s orders for. I eventually settled for Leche Flan and a scoop of strawberry ice cream.
The restaurant’s fun-loving guests also had the opportunity to have their faces painted to blend with their costumes. Since there was a prize given to the best Halloween attire, the creativity of the Filipino marched to the fore once again! Some came with the scariest masks ever, and others looked like they just crept out of their graves.
There were also those who looked very Mexican in their OOTDs that one could never mistake the restaurant for anything else but a colorful extension of Mexico. Exciting prizes were given out, including a complimentary pre-dinner buffet for two persons at the restaurant, for the “Best Dressed of the Night.”
I was very lucky that this fun event coincided with my recent stay at the hotel when I celebrated the birthday of my grandson. It is always a joy to stay at Lanson Place Mall of Asia. I like its contemporary interiors and the calming view of Manila Bay that always soothes my eternally stressed psyche. I also like its rooftop swimming pool that offers a commanding view, not only of the bay but also of the neighboring cities.
My two grandsons always enjoy themselves in the hotel’s rooftop pool. This staycation was my birthday gift to the older one who turned five. At dinner, that same evening, the restaurant’s staff, in their Mexican hats, presented him with a chocolate birthday cake. It is his favorite, and the birthday greeting thrilled him and his younger brother no end.
Lanson Place is known for its family-like service tradition and heartfelt hospitality.
YOUR MONDAY CHUCKLE
The thoughtful inroom welcome amenity and the staff’s personalized approach is the heart of the hotel. It always makes a lasting impression not only on me but also on my grandsons. The older one didn’t want us to check out. The hotel certainly succeeded in making a meaningful heartfelt connection with him.
Qantas launches direct flights to Brisbane, expands travel options for Filipinos
TO ENHANCE travel options for Filipinos heading to Australia, Qantas has launched new nonstop flights from Manila to Brisbane, Queensland.
The Australian national carrier will operate the Airbus A330 four times per week, adding approximately 100,000 seats annually between the Philippines and Australia. This new service complements Qantas’ existing daily flights to Sydney.
Qantas first began operations in the Philippines in 1947, initially providing support for Australian military operations. Passenger services commenced in 1950, with the introduction of the Super Constellation in 1955. The airline marked a significant milestone in 1961 with its first jet flights from Manila, using Boeing 707 aircraft to fly directly to Sydney, eliminating the need for stopovers. Currently, Qantas offers over 300,000 seats annually between the Philippines and Australia and is set to celebrate 75 years of passenger services between the two countries in 2025. The new Brisbane route also facilitates connections for travelers heading to New Zealand, with options to fly to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown via Brisbane.
For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail. com
Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace expressed enthusiasm about the new service, stating, “The Philippines is a very strong market for Qantas, and we are pleased to be responding to demand for our services with the addition of flights to Brisbane. We know a lot of our customers travel to Brisbane via Sydney, so this new direct flight will make it easier and faster for Filipinos to get to Queensland in a single hop aboard the Flying Kangaroo.” Key details for travelers include the following: Flight QF98 departs from Manila to Brisbane at 2:45 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with a flight duration of approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes. Qantas operates these services with Airbus A330-200 aircraft, featuring 27 business class suites in a 1-2-1 configuration with direct aisle access, lie-flat beds, and 269 economy seats. All international fares with Qantas include checked baggage allowance, meals, beverages, and in-flight entertainment. Tickets for the new flights are available at qantas.com/ph or through travel agents.
METROBANK offers credit cardholders travel incentives this holiday season with the launch of its Q4 Big Travel Bonus program. Running until Jan. 15, the promotion offers e-gift certificates worth up to P20,000 for eligible travel-related spending on Metrobank credit cards, both locally and internationally. Under the promotion, credit cardholders are eligible to receive Giftaway e-gift certificates based on their accumulated travel expenses. Those who spend between P80,000 and P149,999 can receive P1,500 in eGCs, while spending from P150,000 to P299,999 qualifies for P3,000 in eGCs. For accumulated expenses between P300,000 and P499,999, cardholders receive P6,000 in eGCs, and those reaching P500,000 or more are rewarded with P20,000 in eGCs. Qualifying expenses cover a range of travel-related purchases, including flights, hotel bookings, tours, and cruises,
and used at over 15,000 partner merchants nationwide, including popular retail stores, restaurants, and hotels. Metrobank credit cardholders can also access travel discounts with select partners. On
and using the promo code MBVISA24; the offer is available until Dec. 31, for travel through March 31, 2025. Additionally, bookings made through Metrobank’s Agoda link provide a 6 percent discount on accommodations, along with cashback of up to P2,500 for stays of P3,000 or more; this offer is valid from November 1 to December 31, 2024. Meanwhile, Klook offers Metrobank customers 20 percent off select activities, plus a “buy one, take one” deal on certain tours, available until Dec. 31.
Metrobank’s Q4 Big Travel Bonus and additional partner discounts offer holiday travelers the chance to maximize savings and benefits during the busy season. For full promotion details, visit Metrobank’s official website.
Qantas is Australia’s national carrier which began its operations in the Philippines in 1947
Mercury Rising Bob Zozobrado
The author’s grandson receives a lively birthday greeting from the restaurant staff
The facade of Lanson Place Mall of Asia
A good wife always forgives her husband when SHE’s wrong.
Cyan Modern Kitchen’s After Dark Fiesta and Calavera Festival was inspired by the Dia de los Muertos celebration in Mexico
The buffet offers various flavorful cocktails like the Tamarindita, Bala del Cañon, and Moradita
