PBBM PUTS GOV’T ON ‘HIGH ALERT’ FOR ‘MARCE’
MUCH NEEDED ASSISTANCE.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. helps a beneficiary receive a check from Agriculture Secretary Francis Tiu Laurel, Jr. who provided nearly P250,000 in crop insurance payments to farmers affected by severe tropical storm Kristine in Pili, Camarines Sur. A total of P50 million in financial assistance were also distributed to farmers, fishermen, and families affected by the storm. PCO
By Charles Dantes and Rio Araja
PRESIDENT Marcos on Wednesday placed government agencies on “high alert” status in anticipation of Typhoon Marce’s onslaught, even as he instructed them to prepare for future storms by fortifying state infrastructure projects with robust materials.
Through social media posts, the chief executive told agencies to ensure resilient communication systems to ensure that critical information can quickly be transmitted to communities that may be affected by the latest weather disturbance.
“Let us start by readying an efficient communication system that can quickly deliver advice
Marcos congratulates Trump, cites ‘unshakeable’ PH-US ties
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. sent his well wishes to Donald Trump, who is projected to win a fresh mandate from the American people, underscoring the “unshakeable alliance” between the United States and the Philippines.
“President Trump has won, and the American people triumphed, and I congratulate them for their victory in an exercise, which showed the world the strength of American values,” Mr. Marcos said.
“We look forward to working with President Trump on a wide range of issues that will yield mutual benefits
and information to citizens,” he said in Filipino Mr. Marcos directed all government agencies with rescue capabilities to prepare their equipment ahead of a scenario in which they must mobilize. “Prepare your rescue equipment… all agencies. Also, government agencies that can contribute equipment, especially vehicles [should do so],” he said. The President also ordered concerned agencies to monitor the rising levels of dams and follow the existing protocols for releasing water once water levels reach maximum levels. Meanwhile, Mr. Marcos instructed key government agencies to prioritize high-quality,
Trump storms to power anew Vows to put an end
to ‘endless wars’
WASHINGTON—Republican former president Donald Trump has won the White House, securing more than the 270 electoral votes needed to defeat Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in what would be the most stunning comeback in US political history.
US media have declared Trump the winner in more than half of the 50 US states, including the four key battlegrounds Georgia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, three of which voted Democratic in the last election.
That gave him 276 electoral votes.
Major networks have called the elec-
tion in his favor, after an early call from Fox News.
Harris has so far captured 219 electoral votes.
Trump would be the oldest ever president at the time of inauguration, the first felon president, and only the second in
House leaders file bill to put off BARMM elections
By Maricel V. Cruz
AN IMMIGRATION Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO) against seven officials of the Office of the Vice President (OVP) has been issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ). DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano, quoted by GMA News, also said Jus-
tice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla signed the ILBO which will immediately be forwarded to the Bureau of Immigration for implementation. It was issued against Zuleika Lopez, lawyer Lemuel Ortonio, lawyer Rosa-
May Puso (Scale-up), Jenielyn P. Sicabalo, Entrepreneurial Spirit Award (Special Citation), Melissa Blanca Moscoso, Diskarteng Eco-friendly
Valdeavilla,
SPEAKER Martin Romualdez on Wednesday led colleagues in filing a bill to reset the first general elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) from May 12, 2025, to May 11, 2026. Romualdez explained that the proposed postponement under House Bill
(HB) 11034 reflects a shared commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for the Bangsamoro people, aligned with the request of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and recent developments in the region.
“This [proposed] postponement is not a delay in progress, but rather a necessary step to ensure that the foundations we are building for BARMM are solid
and capable of supporting a sustainable autonomous government,” he said.
Earlier, Senate President Francis Escudero introduced a counterpart measure in the Senate, highlighting the alignment and sense of urgency across both chambers of Congress.
In October, the BTA, the region’s interim leadership, formally requested an
(Startup) winners and Ms. Ermelita
Chairperson of Philippine Commission on Women
AMERICA’S CHOICE. Former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during an election night event at the West Palm Beach Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. The Republican bet won a new term in the White House by a wide margin in electoral votes to defeat Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. Inset shows cartogram showing electoral college votes won by Kamala Harris and Donald Trump by state, according to US media, as of 8 pm yesterday, Manila time. AFP
By Charles Dantes, Rachelle Tonelada and Maricel Cruz
Unemployment down in Sept—PSA
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE country’s unemployment rate in September fell to 3.7 percent from 4.5 percent in the same period last year as more jobs were created during the period, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
The PSA said the number of unemployed individuals in September 2024 was posted at 1.89 million, lower than the estimated number of unemployed persons of 2.26 million in September 2023 and 2.07 million in August 2024. The employment rate in September 2024, however, increased to 96.3 percent, from 95.5 percent in September 2023 and 96. percent in August 2024.
In terms of levels, the number of employed persons in September 2024
was recorded at 49.87 million, higher than the number of employed persons of 47.67 million in September 2023 and 49.15 million in August 2024.
“We are sustaining our efforts to enhance all dimensions of our labor market. The government is urgently addressing the constraints to high-quality job creation and collaborating with the private sector to capacitate our workers with the right skills and competencies simultaneously,” National Economic
and Development Authority (NEDA)
Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said.
Meanwhile, the total labor force participation rate (LFPR) increased to 65.7 percent from 64.0 percent in the same period last year. An additional 1.8 million Filipinos, mainly among the prime working age (+1.1 million) and women (+1.2 million), entered the labor force.
However, the underemployment rate increased in September 2024 to 11.9 percent from 10.7 percent in September 2023.
“With the most favorable demographics in ASEAN, the Philippines is at a golden moment, and we are committed to making the most of it. This is a sign that we are harnessing our competitive advantage by providing more economic opportunities for our people,” Finance Secretary
Ralph Recto said.
“And we will continue to do so by creating more quality jobs for Filipinos,” he added.
At present, the Philippines’ median age stands at only 25 years old, the lowest among ASEAN-6. An HSBC study revealed that the Philippines’ share of the working-age population is projected to grow by as much as 15% from 2025 to 2035, the fastest in the region.
“The world is taking notice of the immense potential of Filipino talent. In our recent economic briefings abroad, investors have shown bullishness in our young, skilled, and English-proficient workforce. This is something that they value with high regard, placing us firmly on their radar,” Secretary Recto stressed.
durable materials for infrastructure projects, emphasizing the need for climate resilience in the wake of increasingly severe weather conditions.
During his visit to Legazpi, he addressed officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and other relevant agencies, urging them to ensure materials meet strict quality standards to withstand typhoons and other extreme weather events.
“We know that storms are getting stronger and their damage more severe. That’s why we’re implementing modern designs for our roads and bridges,” he said.
The President’s call for resilient infrastructure aligns with a broader push to protect communities vulnerable to climate-related hazards, particularly in areas like the Bicol Region, which frequently faces typhoons.
to two nations with deep ties, shared beliefs, common vision, and a long history of working together.”
“I am hopeful that this unshakeable alliance, tested in war and peace, will be a force of good that will blaze a path of prosperity and amity, in the region, and in both sides of the Pacific. This is a durable partnership the Philippines is fully committed to because it is founded on the ideals we share: freedom and democracy,” the President added.
Mr. Marcos expressed confidence that Trump’s “robust leadership will result in a better future for all of us.”
US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, for her part, said the US-Philippine relations will continue to be robust.
“I am extremely confident that the US-Philippine relations will remain steadfast, ironclad allies, and partners for prosperity no matter who wins the election in the United States today,” Carlson said on Wednesday in Manila.
Carlson said there has been very strong bipartisan support in the US when it comes to bilateral relations with the Philippines regardless if the incumbent administration is a Republican or a Democrat.
“When you look at the foreign military financing and the support for the US-Philippine military relationship, it is as many Republicans as Democrats who are enthusiastically supporting the US-Philippine alliance,” she said.
“I think when you look at the latticework of relationships that have been built up, not just over this current administration, but before, remember when you think about the security situation here in the IndoPacific, it was under the Trump administration that Secretary of State (Mike) Pompeo came out and lent credence and support to the arbitral ruling that weighed in favor of the Philippines with regard to access and rights at Ayungin Shoal, for example,” Carlson added.
Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez added the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the US will remain unchanged regardless of the election outcome.
“The defense establishment here is very much aligned with the way they want our lives to continue.
The Visiting Forces Agreement has been in place for many years, and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement has also been around since 2016. That agreement continues, which we respect,” Romualdez said in a dzBB interview.
Analysts said while there may be a difference in policy approach between Trump and Kamala Harris, the US geostrategic interests remain consistent.
“The leverage that Manila holds at this juncture lies in the convergence of strategic interests and the alliance,” geopolitical analyst Matteo Piasentini told This Week in Asia, referring to the MDT.
At the House of Representatives, Albay Rep. Joey Salceda underscored the need for “a very adept strategy for capturing foreign investments regardless of the result” of the US elections.
history to serve non-consecutive terms.
Joyful supporters waited for the 78-year-old to speak at a watch party in Florida—while gloom descended in Harris’s camp as aides said she would no longer speak as expected.
In his victory speech, Trump promised to “put an end to endless wars.”
He underscored his vision of a “strong America” focused less on intervention and more on peace.
“The days of sending our young men and women into endless wars are over... We will bring peace back home.”
In a further blow to Democrats, Trump’s Republican Party also seized control of the Senate, flipping two seats to overturn a narrow Democratic majority.
US allies in Europe and Asia fear a return of his nationalist policies and his praise of autocrats like Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
But the US dollar surged and bitcoin hit a record high while most equity markets advanced as traders bet on a victory for Trump as the results rolled in.
World leaders raced to congratulate Trump on Wednesday.
Without directly mentioning Trump, foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao
Ning told a regular briefing that China hopes for “peaceful coexistence” with the United States.
“We will continue to approach and handle China-US relations based on the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation,” she said.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists he was unaware of any plans by Vladimir Putin to congratulate Trump since the US is an “unfriendly country.”
“We will draw conclusions based on concrete steps and concrete words,” Peskov said.
Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Trump’s win as “history’s greatest comeback!”
“Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America. This is a huge victory!” Netanyahu said in a statement.
Bassem Naim, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, told Agence France Presse that under Trump the United States’ “blind support for the Zionist entity must end because it comes at the expense of the future of our people and the security and stability of the region.”
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Donald Trump on his “impressive vic -
tory” and said he hoped his presidency would bring a “just peace in Ukraine closer.”
“I appreciate President Trump’s commitment to the ‘peace through strength’ approach in global affairs,” Zelensky said in a statement on social media.
NATO chief Mark Rutte congratulated Trump and said his return to power would help keep the alliance “strong.”
“His leadership will again be key to keeping our Alliance strong. I look forward to working with him again to advance peace through strength through NATO,” Rutte said.
“I warmly congratulate Donald J. Trump,” European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X. “We are bound by a true partnership between our people, uniting 800 million citizens. Let’s work together on a strong transatlantic agenda that keeps delivering for them.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer congratulated the 78-year-old on his “historic election victory.”
“From growth and security to innovation and tech, I know that the UK-US special relationship will continue to prosper on both sides of the Atlantic.”
Japan Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba told reporters he hopes “to work closely with Mr Trump to take the Japan-US alliance and Japan-US relationship to new heights.” AFP
In addition to his infrastructure directive, Mr. Marcos announced plans to begin construction of the Bicol River Basin Development Project (BRBDP) in early 2025, an initiative expected to mitigate the region’s long-standing flood issues.
“By early 2025, we’ll see work starting on the ground. This project aims to control flooding in the Bicol River Basin, allowing us to respond more effectively when waters rise,” he explained.
The BRBDP is expected to reduce flooding significantly and speed up drainage, benefiting thousands of residents who face seasonal inundations.
As this developed, “Marce” was observed moving slowly over the waters east of Northern Cagayan on Wednesday afternoon.
Tropical cyclone wind signal no. 3 was raised northeastern portion of mainland Cagayan (Santa Ana, Gonzaga).
Signal no. 2 was hoisted over Batanes, the rest of Cagayan including Babuyan Islands, the northern portion of Isabela, Apayao, the northern portion of Kalinga, the northern portion of Abra, Ilocos Norte, and the northern portion of Ilocos Sur.
extension of the transition period until 2028, citing critical work that remains to be completed to ensure a successful shift to a fully functioning, democratically elected regional government.
The Speaker pointed out that the oneyear deferment they seek will provide time for the BTA to work closely with various sectors in the region to address electoral readiness and voter education, among other matters.
Under the bill, the President shall appoint 80 new interim members of BTA, who shall serve until their successors shall have been elected and qualified.
Once enacted, the term of office of incumbent BTA members shall be deemed expired.
Other co-authors of the deferment bill include Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, Senior Deputy Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, Deputy Speaker Yasser Alonto Balindong, Representatives Zia Alonto Adiong of Lanao del Sur, Bai Dimple Mastura of Maguindanao del Norte, Munir Arbison Jr. of Sulu, and Yedda K. Romualdez and Jude Acidre of Tingog Party-list.
“This legislation,” Romualdez noted, “responds to the unique context of the Bangsamoro, allowing the region to up -
hold its autonomy while also adhering to the highest standards of governance within the Philippines.”
He noted the recent Supreme Court decision that ruled the inclusion of Sulu in the BARMM as unconstitutional further complicated preparations for the 2025 elections.
The exclusion of Sulu created a legal vacuum in the BARMM Parliament’s composition, particularly concerning the allocation of parliamentary district seats, Romualdez explained.
“This [proposed] law is a testament to Congress’ dedication to the success of the BARMM, providing leaders with the time they need to complete this transition thoughtfully, inclusively, and with resilience for future generations,” he added.
“Regrettably, upon consultation with him, my client respectfully manifests that while he respects and recognizes the authority of the Honorable Committees to conduct inquiries, in aid of legislation, he cannot attend the public hearing as scheduled for the following reasons. First, with all due respect, my client is already doubtful as to the Honorable House Quad Committee’s integrity, independence, and probity to conduct the legislative inquiry in aid of legislation,” Delgra, quoted by GMA News, said.
“While my client’s attendance is supposedly for him to provide valuable insights and to shed light on issues under discussion particularly on extra-judicial killings, it is apparent that the inquiry is a mere political ploy aimed to indict him for crime or crimes he did not commit,” he added.
lynne Sanchez, Gina Acosta, Julieta Villadelrey, Edward Fajarda, and Sunshine Fajarda. Clavano said that the ILBO “is not a restriction to their travel or their right to travel but merely a monitoring mechanism by which we can see if they left or entered” the country.
Earlier, the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability requested the ILBO.
The OVP confirmed that it approved all required travel documents for Lopez’s trip from November 4 to 16, amid the ILBO. “The OVP Chief of Staff’s travel was personal and unrelated to her employment with the OVP,” the OVP said.
“Speculations about the purpose of this travel are unfounded and unnecessary. We request to respect the privacy of the family during this difficult time,” it added.
Earlier, the OVP declined to attend the House panel hearing, describing it as “unnecessary and plagued with irregularities” and arguing that the subpoena was invalid.
Manila Rep. Joel Chua, chair of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, meanwhile said the chairperson of the House Blue Ribbon Committee on Wednesday disclosed that they are verifying information that it was Vice President Sara Duterte herself who signed the travel authority of Lopez that enabled her to go to the US on the eve of the hearing of the accountability and transparency panel.
Chua said that reliable sources provided him with the information and that the panel is in the process of verifying them.
He said that Lopez’s sudden departure seems to be an attempt to avoid testifying in the ongoing investigation into the alleged misuse of P612.5 million confidential funds by the OVP and the Department of Education (DepEd) under Duterte’s tenure as Education Secretary.
“It is unfortunate that there seems to be an effort to prevent OVP officials from appearing in our investigation. We are still finding out if it is true that VP Duterte himself signed the travel authority of his chief-of-staff to fly to the U.S. before our hearing,” Chua said.
The committee’s investigation centers on P500 million in confidential funds allocated to the OVP and an additional P112.5 million allocated to the DepEd during Duterte’s tenure as Secretary.
Chua emphasized that Lopez’s absence, along with that of other key OVP officials, undermines the committee’s efforts to shed light on the alleged fund mismanagement. He noted that the Commission on Audit (COA) has flagged a significant portion of these confidential funds and even disallowed P73 million of the P125 million spent by the OVP in just 11 days during the last quarter of 2022. This finding, he stated, underscores the need for clarity and transparency from Duterte’s office.
“Apart from restraining his officials, the OVP even tried to convince the COA not to pass this document to us in the House of Representatives,” Chua said.
In a letter dated August 21, 2024, the OVP argued that the subpoena issued by the House Committee on Appropriations violated the separation of powers and could interfere with COA’s independent auditing process.
The letter urged COA to withhold audit documents concerning the OVP’s confidential fund usage, which has been flagged for questionable spending, including P73 million disallowed in a matter of days during late 2022.
He also pointed out that Duterte continues to avoid directly addressing the alleged misuse of these funds, even as her key officials are being prevented from attending the hearings.
The repeated absences of OVP officials, including Lopez, reflect a pattern of a lack of transparency and accountability, according to Chua. Rachelle Tonelada and Maricel Cruz
PBBM orders DA, agencies to scale up rice programs
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the Department of Agriculture (DA) and other government agencies to scale up affordable rice initiatives, including the P29 per kilo rice and Rice-for-All (RFA) programs.
In a meeting at Malacañang with officials from the DA, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), President Marcos emphasized the need to stabilize rice prices, particularly through the P29 and RFA programs, which are designed to offer low-cost rice to Filipinos. He urged the DA to work closely with the Department of Finance (DOF) and the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) to address factors contributing to rising food prices, including high farm input costs and climate-related challenges affecting crop yields. Since its launch, the P29 Program has provided rice to over 140,000 households across the Philippines, distributing more than 700,000 kilograms through Kadiwa centers.
The initiative has generated an estimated P20.42 million in sales for farmers and fisherfolk cooperatives participating in the program.
To sustain and expand these programs, the President approved a P5 billion budget allocation to support infrastructure improvements, including warehouse repairs and expanded distribution networks.
The National Food Authority (NFA) has also been instrumental in supporting these programs, procuring over 6.47 million bags of palay from January to October 2024, marking a 72.65% completion rate toward its annual target of nearly 9 million bags.
The agency’s procurement, boosted by the Price Range Scheme
for Palay Procurement (PRICERs), is projected to help achieve the required buffer stocks by the year’s end.
The President also directed DA to expand Kadiwa locations from 21 to 300 by mid-2025, focusing on ensuring access to affordable rice in underserved communities.
Currently, 447 Kadiwa popup and mobile stores operate nationwide, offering RFA rice at P43 per kilogram, and selected sites offering P29 rice depending on stock availability.
The President called on local government units (LGUs) to participate by implementing palaybuying schemes that will secure rice inventories for expanded Kadiwa and rice programs.
Acidre slams cash given to DepEd execs
By Maricel V. Cruz
REP. Jude Acidre of Tingog partylist denounced the undisclosed cash allowances distributed to Department of Education (DepEd) officials during Vice President Sara Duterte’s tenure. Acidre was reacting to what was uncovered during Tuesday’s congressional hearing where DepEd Chief Accountant Ma. Rhunna Catalan revealed having received cash envelopes on several occasions last year, totaling P25,000, without any formal documentation or budget allocation. These funds, characterized as “allowances” from the Vice President’s office, directly contradict the agency’s established “no gift policy.”
Acidre expressed his concern over this troubling contradiction. “In public service, policies like the ‘no gift policy’ are meant to uphold integrity, accountability, and transparency. However, when leadership’s actions contradict these principles, it sends a damaging message. While VP Duterte’s directive to enforce this policy was commendable, the revelation of cash gifts given without oversight raises serious questions about both consistency and ethical standards.”
Catalan’s testimony has intensified scrutiny of financial practices within DepEd. Acidre noted, “Such actions, if allowed to persist, create confusion among personnel and lead to skepticism about the sincerity of established policies. Trust is crucial for unity and effectiveness within any department. The stark inconsistency between what is preached and what is practiced undermines not only the policy itself but also the credibility of leadership.”
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2024
House approves Meralco franchise bill
IN BRIEF
Give Marawi victims just payment—solon
SENATOR Alan Peter Cayetano has called for a collaborative approach by key government agencies to develop a more equitable compensation scheme for the victims of the 2017 Marawi siege.
Cayetano issued the call following a hearing of the Senate Special Committee on Marawi City Rehabilitation and Victims’ Compensation on Tuesday.
Senate Bill No. 2828 aims to address gaps in the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act (Republic Act No. 11696) to ensure a more equitable compensation process for affected residents.
Cayetano emphasized the importance of compensation in helping victims restore their lives to their pre-war state, stating that it is essential for them to have a fair chance to rebuild and move forward.
“I am confident that if we collaborate with relevant agencies and present a creative and well-thought-out compensation strategy, we can gain the support of our President and fellow members of Congress,” he said. Joel E Zurbano
Senator eyes AI-ready PH labor master plan
SENATOR Joel Villa has called on the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and other relevant agencies to work for an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-ready national employment master plan.
Villanueva issued the call following a recent World Bank report that highlighted a decline in the share of high-skilled workers in the services sector--from 20 percent to just 6 percent due to the growing awareness and adoption of Generative AI (GenAI). According to the World Bank, sectors such as finance and insurance were among the most vulnerable to AI disruptions, followed by management and enterprise operations, as well as informationbased businesses.
“Our employment plan needs to be AIready in all aspects because the jobs and livelihoods of our kababayans (countrymen) are on the line,” Villanueva said. Ralph Harvey Rirao
Army unit embraces adopt-a-school program
THE Army’s 4th Field Artillery Battalion (AAR), in partnership with Philippine Army Finance Center Producers Integrated Cooperative (PAFCPIC), formally launched the Adopt-A-School Program to help 20 Grade 7 needy students of the Ulanguan National High School in Brgy. Binicalan, San Luis, Agusan del Sur, and Bulonay Integrated School in Bulonay, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, The AAR viewed the move as a “significant step towards promoting education and empowering indigenous communities,” formalized with the signing of scholarship agreements with the 8th Infantry Battalion and 26th Infantry Battalion. 4FAB’s positive relationship with PAFCPIC has helped to secure the scholarship program as well as identify and select indigenous individuals within the Area of Support. Rex Espiritu
Makati allots P51-m for disaster-hit towns, cities
By Joel E. Zurbano
THE Makati City government has allocated P51 million in financial assistance to local government units (LGUs) affected by the typhoons, southwest monsoons, and volcanic eruptions this year. The amount will cover 83 disasterstricken municipalities and cities, with each LGU receiving P250,000 to P1 million each.
“The City of Makati stands in solidarity with the victims of the recent tropical storm Kristine and other disasters this year. We remain firm in our commitment to sharing our resources to help affected localities recover and build back better,” Mayor Abigail Binay said in a statement.
Binay said her administration allotted P21.75 million for 34 LGUs severely affected by Kristine. At least P1 million each will be given to Legazpi City and Libon in Albay; Ragay, Sipocot, Libmanan, Minalabac, Calabanga, Pili, Caramoan, Goa, Bato, Bula, and Nabua in Camarines Sur; P750,000 each for Daraga, Albay; San Fernando and San Jose in Camarines Sur; and Mercedes, Camarines Norte; P500,000 each for Malinao and Tabaco City in Albay; Del Gallego, Camaligan, and Canaman in Camarines Sur and Labo in Camarines Norte; and P250,000 each for Mulanay in Quezon province, Santa Cruz in Laguna, Santo Domingo in Albay, Cabusao, Milaor, Magarao, and Siruma
in Camarines Sur; Virac in Catanduanes, and Daet, Jose Panganiban, and Paracale in Camarines Norte.
In addition to financial assistance, the Makati Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) provided relief supplies and deployed search and rescue teams with complete gear to assist in relief and recovery operations in Batangas and the Bicol Region.
A total of P3.5 million in financial assistance will also be given to the six LGUs affected by tropical cyclone Julian which ravaged Ilocos Norte. These areas included Laoag which will get P1 million; Bacarra and Paoay, P750,00 each; Piddig, P500,000; and Batac and Dingras, P250,000 apiece.
Taiwan eyes 25k Pinoy students under ‘study and work’ concept
accept
THE Taiwanese government eyes some 25,000 young Filipinos to participate in its study and work program in a bid to cope with local manpower shortages as an offshoot of low birth rate.
Migrant expert Emmanuel Geslani said Taiwan opened its doors wider to Filipino students for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. “This year the Ministries of Economic Affairs and Education have joined together to attract more foreign workers to enrol in many colleges and universities as the low birth rate in Taiwan, causing major labor shortages and forcing Taiwan
es to support their employment in Taiwan.
The government said students will be recruited mainly from the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand. After two years of studying, the students can decide to stay and work in Taiwan for an additional two or four years.
Geslani said the Philippines has been an active participant in the study and work program in Taiwan since 2019 when the first batch of 400 young Filipinos were accepted in two large universities in Tainan and Kaohsiung, mostly engineering courses.
By Maricel V. Cruz
VOTING 186-7-
4, the House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on final reading House Bill (HB) 10926 granting a fresh 25-year franchise for the Manila Electric Company (Meralco).
The bill will now be transmitted to the Senate for deliberations.
House Committee on Ways and Means chairman and Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, and Committee on Legislative Franchises head Parañaque Rep. Gus Tambunting sponsored the bill. HB 10926 is a consolidation of three House bills — HB 9793 authored by Salceda; HB 9813 authored by Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez; and HB 10317 from former Speaker and now Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco. Meralco’s franchise is set to expire in 2028. As the largest electricity distributor in the country, Meralco services 7.8 million customers in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Rizal, and select areas in Pampanga,
He also said Meralco has fully complied with the ERC’s rules and issuances. Some P48.3 billion in consumer refunds have also been delivered in full.
Customs intercepts P729-k smuggled kush at Clark port
By Vito Barcelo
THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has intercepted a shipment of high-grade dried marijuana worth nearly P800,000 at the Port of Clark in Pampanga.
The seizure of the package was conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), according to Customs commissioner Bienvenido Rubio.
“The shipment, which arrived on October 11, 2024, was declared as two pieces of garments. However, the BOC X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) flagged it for physical examination after suspicious images were detected,” Rubio said. Further investigation discovered a pouch containing dried leaves and fruiting tops suspected to be high-grade marijuana, also called “kush” worth P729,000. Samples were taken and submitted to the PDEA for chemical analysis, confirming the substance as marijuana, classified as a dangerous drug under R.A. No. 9165. Customs acting district collector Jairus Reyes lauded the BOC agents for their steadfast dedication in combating drug smuggling, emphasizing that their vigilance plays a crucial role in protecting the nation from the dangers of illegal substances and upholding the BOC’s mission of safeguarding the country.
CURTAIN OF CASCADING WATER. Authorities advise residents of downstream areas of the Agno River to exercise extreme caution or stay safe in higher grounds as the Ambuclao Dam and Binga reservoir release water, causing the river to swell its banks. Dave Leprozo Jr.
EARLY BIRDS. The Christmas Season is still way off, but early shoppers are already at the Dapitan Arcade in Quezon City for beautiful decors to deck their homes and offices. Manny Palmero
OPINION
Undas traffic adventures
LIKE everyone else, I normally would not be venturing out of my comfort zone during the All Saints’ Day break. But the arrival of a relative from an overseas trip necessitated a trip to NAIA to pick her up. And because almost everyone in the Metro area left for the provinces, it was a treat to experience three days of stress-free driving in the NCR for a change.
Even if the traffic was very light, however, there were still quite a few drivers who simply cannot be patient and just follow traffic rules. Bad traffic habits are indeed difficult to do away with for many people. One driver for instance instead of merely following the two lane traffic entering the Shaw Boulevard underpass going north could not wait and formed another lane which was totally unnecessary. The driver almost hit another car when swerving to the left to enter the underpass.
Although the light traffic afforded those who stayed an opportunity to be able to drive around and get to their destinations faster, this cannot be maximized due to the outdated traffic signals still in use throughout the NCR. If the traffic signals were all automated and self-adjusting, travel could be faster and more convenient. Perhaps, the MMDA should take advantage of traffic moments like the November 1 and Holy Week breaks to study possible improvements that can be undertaken in the Metro area to improve traffic flow.
But it was on our drive back north that we were brought back to the realities of driving. In one of the stopovers, there was this driver who instead of proceeding a few meters to execute a U turn, forcibly executed a difficult U turn on the barriers causing several vehicles to wait. Such a behavior is one big reason why traffic in the Metro area is so difficult to improve. We are our own worst enemy.
Another example is that vehicle with the number seven plate who entered the bus carousel even when the traffic was light. The driver and occupants instead of simply apologizing thought that they are entitled people even giving the traffic enforcer the finger and just drove
away. That folks in a nutshell is what is wrong with the traffic in this country. Any Tom, Dick, and Harry who occupies a position in government or belongs to the upper echelon of the social order thinks that traffic rules are only for the masses and do not apply to them.
For one, I do not believe that the plate is fake as the LTO is saying. It is more likely that the LTO is hesitant to proceed any further due to the personality involved. Besides, it is easy to find out who owns the vehicle if the LTO really wants it. After all, there are only 24 senators.
We are our own worst enemy.
Except for that driver in that stopover area, the trip back to Baguio was basically uneventful until we got to Kennon Road. Whether going up or coming down, Rosario is where everyone queues to gas up because fuel prices in the icty are over nine pesos more. Why the government allows this is hard to explain. A simple calculation will tell us that it will not cost nine pesos to transport one liter of fuel thirty six kilometers to the city. Could it be that some people are benefiting from this anomalous and scandalous arrangement?
As for Kennon Road, it has not been much in use for the past several years due to never-ending repairs which for all intents and purposes has allowed the many houses along the river bank to claim Kennon Road as their private road. Gone are the scent of Pine trees because they are all gone. The road was again opened recently but due to Typhoon Kristine, a section of the road was washed out. The one lane bridge constructed however, is causing more than an hour delay because of inefficient road management. This needs to improve. In spite of everything however, Kennon Road remains the most preferred route to Baguio by motorists. For this reason, it should be repaired and maintained to international standards and kept open for the benefit of the public.
Trump or Harris, and Inday
AS we write this article, the US West Coast has yet to be counted into the initial results of the US elections, where Trump has reached 207 electoral votes versus Harris with 91. The usual agricultural belt and Republican strongholds have already delivered for Trump, including Texas and Florida, but California, Oregon and Washington state have yet to be factored in.
When these states, traditionally Democratic are counted in, the numbers should even out, and as in 2016 and 2020, the so-called battleground states will decide who will be POTUS by January 20, 2025. Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Georgia, probably Nevada and Arizona will once more decide the elections, and the victor will have a razor-thin margin over the loser.
What I found quite surprising, insofar as Filipino-Americans are concerned, is how they have been shifting their historic preference for the Democrats towards the Republican Trump, not necessarily the party, but the candidate. Trump appeals to them as a strong leader, even if he is both
EDITORIAL
Inordinate delays in our justice system
WHAT is a reasonable length of time for court cases to be resolved in Philippine court?
We ask this question in light of the dismissal by the Court of Appeals (CA) of a civil forfeiture case filed by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) against three individuals allegedly involved in the multi-billion peso pork barrel scandal.
In a 17-page ruling last month, the CA’s Ninth Division granted the petition for certiorari by the three accused who sought to overturn the Manila Regional Trial Court’s 2022 decision to quash their motion to dismiss the case.
In their appeal to the CA, the petitioners argued that their constitutional right to a speedy trial was violated because it took eight years and five months between the submission of the last pleading and the conduct of the pre-trial.
a felon and an unhinged personality.
Fil-Ams are beginning to think like the midwestern whites, and are not identifying with an Asian-American woman in a large way. Strange. Whenever my chat groups ask me about who between Trump and Harris would be “better” for the Philippines, I would respond by saying it doesn’t matter whichever way.
Trump appeals to FilAms as a strong leader, even if he is both a felon and an unhinged personality.
Our exports to the US of A are mostly semiconductor devices and electronic parts, of which the valueadded is only cheap labor, with the bulk of the inputs imported, because we have neither an industrial nor technology base. We are increasingly importing food and grain from them, and that is not likely to change in the next decade.
In granting the petition, the appellate court emphasized that the right to speedy disposition of cases is guaranteed by Section 16, Article III of the Constitution. “This constitutional
Will American business invest more in our country if Harris or Trump wins? Neither.
They have big domestic economic problems and if they have surplus to invest, they will not go to the Philippines, and would prefer Vietnam, Indonesia and Thailand. Let’s be real.
The big IF between Harris and Trump has to do with geo-politics, particularly because there could be a marked difference on how the protagonists will handle the Taiwan conundrum, with the WPS conflict on which we rely to the Americans as “reliable” allies, a mere sideshow. Trump looks at China from a dollar and cents focus, while the Democrats and Harris are focused on the growing security rivalry with China.
right is not limited to the accused in criminal proceedings but extends to all parties in all cases, be it civil or administrative in nature, as well as in all proceedings, either judicial or quasi-judicial,” said the decision, penned by Associate Justice Eleuterio Bathan.
—“—
We have to balance public interest in the efficient administration of justice with the protection of the accused from the undue burden of prolonged litigation.
The CA decision is based on Section 14(2), Article III of the 1987 Constitution, which states: “In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall be presumed innocent until the contrary is proved, and shall enjoy the right to be heard by himself and counsel, to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation against
So by Friday, maybe even Saturday, we should know who won, but I repeat: it won’t matter much to our fate as a country and as a people whoever wins. ***
At the rate Vice President Sara Duterte and her advisers are handling their problem with the HoR and its demolition crew, the results of the 2025 senatorial elections will matter very much to her political longevity.
By longevity I refer not just to 2028, if she decides to run for the presidency, but a potential impeachment, noises about which are getting louder and more pronounced.
As it is widely expected that the ruling coalition’s congressional candidates will mostly be re-elected, their dynasties prevailing over the competition, if any, a decision from its adversarial leadership and of course, Malacanang, will trigger an impeachment.
It would then go to the Senate for trial, and that is where the numbers matter. An impeachment is a politi-
him, to have a speedy, impartial, and public trial, to meet the witnesses face to face, and to have compulsory process to secure the attendance of witnesses and the production of evidence in his behalf.”
Elsewhere in the fundamental law, there’s also the provision that “no person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws.”
The right to a speedy trial was also invoked by another respondent in the same pork barrel scandal. The respondent, the former chief of staff of a veteran lawmaker, succeeded in getting herself freed from six years or so years in detention awaiting the court’s verdict on the case.
The right to a speedy trial ensures that an accused is tried promptly, without undue delay, balancing both public interest in the efficient administration of justice with the protection of the accused from the undue burden of prolonged litigation. It also prevents arbitrary and oppressive delays and avoids oppressive incarceration before trial.
It is a right that is part of due process, but also a right that can be invoked to free from detention even those who deserve to be punished for heinous crimes. But that’s from a layman’s point of view.
cal judgment call which the 24 “republics” will decide when the time comes.
It is probably comforting for the beleaguered president that even the Alyansa candidates are not solidly loyal to the current political mandarins and will weigh their decision on conviction or acquittal based on either what would be in the best interest of the country, or be swayed by prevailing political winds.
If she could forget an early announcement that she would not campaign for a chosen slate, it would be to her future advantage to make sure friendly “republics” would win. Which means she had better campaign hard, especially in Mindanao and Central Visayas, for “friendly” or “fair and independent-minded” senatorial candidates, whether they are listed in the Alyansa or her father’s PDP.
Russia blamed for bomb threats at US voting sites
ATLANTA, US — Bomb threats targeted scores of polling places in several battleground states on a tense US Election Day, with authorities pointing toward suspected Russian involvement.
The 2024 US presidential campaign has been a particularly volatile one, and security was ramped up given concerns over possible civil unrest, election chicanery and violence against poll workers.
Arizona, Georgia and Pennsylvania all reported hoax threats that in some cases briefly interrupted voting while police checked for bombs, though authorities did not report finding any explosives.
“The FBI is aware of bomb threats to polling locations in several states, many of which appear to originate from Russian email domains,” spokeswoman Savannah Syms said in a statement.
“None of the threats have been determined to be credible thus far,” she added, urging the public to “remain vigilant.” Georgia’s Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger reported 60 threats in counties around the state, and identified Russian involvement without elaborating. AFP
Indonesia relocates thousands post-eruption
IN BRIEF
Afghan poppy industry up 19% despite ban
OPIUM cultivation rose by 19 percent in Afghanistan this year, the UN reported Wednesday, despite a Taliban government ban that almost eradicated the crop. Currently, 12,800 hectares of poppies are cultivated in Afghanistan -- where up to 80 percent of the population depends on agriculture -- a new survey by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) shows, the agency said in a statement.
The 19 percent increase year-on-year remains far below the 232,000 hectares cultivated when Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada banned the crop in April 2022, nearly a year after the Taliban returned to power, UNODC added.
The centre of poppy cultivation has also shifted, the agency noted, and is now concentrated in northeastern provinces instead of in the Taliban strongholds of southern Afghanistan. AFP
Snow seen on Mount Fuji after record absence
SNOW has finally fallen on Mount Fuji, images showed Wednesday, after warm weather led to the Japanese mountain’s longest-ever stint with bare slopes.
The volcano’s famous snowcap begins forming on October 2 on average, and last year snow was first observed by government meteorologists on October 5. Japan’s weather agency -- which compares conditions from exactly the same location, Kofu City, each year -- has not yet announced a new record for the slowest start to the snowcap, due to cloud cover at its monitoring station.
But this year already marks the latest arrival of snow since comparative data became available in 1894, beating the previous record of October 26 -- seen twice, in 1955 and 2016. Photographs taken from different points around Japan’s highest mountain where the skies were clearer early on Wednesday showed a dusting of snow on its peak. AFP
Top Mexican court upholds election of judges
MEXICO’S Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a bid to declare the election of judges unconstitutional, averting a potential standoff with President Claudia Sheinbaum, who says the contentious reforms are irreversible. The constitutional amendment making Mexico the world’s only country to allow voters to choose judges at all levels -- starting next year -- has sparked opposition street protests and diplomatic tensions with Washington. Last week, eight of 11 Supreme Court justices decided not to seek election in June 2025, submitting resignations that will mostly take effect next August. After more than five hours of debate, the top court rejected a proposal by justice Juan Luis Gonzalez to declare the election of judges unconstitutional. Sheinbaum on Monday accused the court of “overstepping its functions” by seeking to change reforms that have already been incorporated into the constitution. AFP
Ex-govt worker in China to be executed for spying
BEIJING — A former high-level Chinese government employee has been sentenced to death for leaking state secrets to a foreign power, Beijing’s spy agency said Wednesday.
The individual surnamed Zhang “provided a large number of top secret and classified state secrets to foreign intelligence agencies,” the Ministry of State Security said in a post to its official WeChat account.
In his job, Zhang had access to “a large number of state secrets”, the ministry said.
He was recruited and became a “puppet” after leaving that job and began handing foreign spy agencies state secrets in exchange for cash, the ministry
said.
“Zhang... was weak in character and unable to resist the temptation of money,” it added.
The ministry did not specify which state organization employed Zhang, nor did it give his full name.
It accused a foreign spy surnamed Li of luring Zhang to an unnamed country with the promise of “experiencing exotic customs”, where they pressured him into becoming a double agent.
Zhang was sentenced to death following an investigation, it added.
A colleague who assisted him, surnamed Zhu, was given six years in jail, it said. No details were given about when he
Austrian ex-spy, ex-lawmaker go on trial for violating secrecy
VIENNA — An Austrian former intelligence official and a far-right exlawmaker are due to go on trial on Wednesday for allegedly violating official secrecy, the first charges in a closely watched case involving Russia spying accusations.
The case came to light earlier this year and has cast the spotlight on the far-right Freedom Party (FPOe), which topped September’s national elections for the first time.
Former agent Egisto Ott was detained for two months from March, suspected of passing information to the Russian secret services and to fugitive entrepreneur Jan Marsalek.
Since then, leaked prosecution material has indicated that informants close to the FPOe are still operating in Vienna. The FPOe has dismissed all accusations.
Ott will go on trial in the Vienna criminal court, together with former FPOe lawmaker Hans-Joerg Jenewein. Jenewein is accused of convincing Ott to uncover and share confidential information, including details on participants in a meeting of European secret services.
Ott is also suspected of passing on the names of intelligence service employees in 2019 to Jenewein, thereby “endangering national security”.
The two men face up to three years in prison on the charge of violating official secrecy.
Two days have been set for the trial, which is scheduled to start at 9:15 am local time (0815 GMT). But it could last longer, according to a court spokeswoman. In a video statement released ahead of the trial, Ott’s lawyers said there “was
would be executed.
China classifies death penalty statistics as a state secret, though rights groups including Amnesty believe thousands of people are executed in the country every year.
Under Xi Jinping, China’s most powerful and authoritarian leader in decades, Beijing has stepped up dark warnings that foreign powers are seeking to clip the country’s rise.
Beijing has warned that spies are working to lure loyal Chinese to betray their country, often in lurid and unusual ways. Its highly-secretive Ministry of State Security has also taken to sharing news of its findings on social media. AFP
EAST Flores, Indonesia -Indonesia will permanently relocate thousands of residents from around a volcano that erupted in recent days, killing nine people after spewing fireballs and ash on homes, officials said Wednesday. Authorities
radius.” The disaster chief said the government would help locals move to a new area or to build houses on land they already own.
The decision was “one of the longterm mitigation steps” in anticipation of future eruptions, said BNPB spokesman Abdul Muhari.
Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted three times overnight on Monday, shooting ash two kilometres into the sky (1.2 miles), before erupting again on Tuesday.
Residents described their horror when they realised they were in the shadow of an eruption, which they said was initially masked by adverse weather.
“I saw flames coming out and immediately fled. There were ashes and stones everywhere,” said 32-year-old hairdresser Hermanus Mite. AFP
POLLS CLOSING. Nevada Secretary of State Francisco V. Aguilar reviews his notes before a news conference at the Clark County Election Department after polls closed in North Las Vegas, Nevada. AFP
WOMEN DOMINATE. French half-soprano Eva Zaicik (2nd R) performs on stage during the dress rehearsal of Baldassare Galuppi’s opera “l’Uomo Femina”, at the Dijon auditorium in Dijon, central-eastern France. AFP
SAN Beda University overpowered firstround tormentor Emilio Aguinaldo College with a vengeful 89-59 victory on Wednesday to plant one foot to NCAA Season 100 Final Four at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.
Emman Tagle and Bismark Lina came through from inside and out by firing 20 and 18 points, respec tively, as the Lions nailed their 10th win against five defeats and at least a playoff for a semis berth.
It would need just to beat one of the defending champion’s last three elimination round foes—Letran, College of St. Benilde and San Se bastian—for it to advance to the playoff phase.
“This win is very important to our confidence,” said San Beda coach Yuri Escueta.
It was sweet revenge for San Beda, which succumbed to EAC when the two first collided in the first round, 68-55, last Sept. 17.
The difference from this one was they have an additional big body inside in the bullstrong Lina, who had to skip most of the opening round to fully recover from an injury.
“If anything, you have a big man, it really helps,” said Escueta.
The loss sent the Generals slipping to to a share of no. 4 with Letran and Lyceum of the Philippines U with a 7-8 record apiece.
Unlike in their first encounter, the Generals were buried early on this as the Lions and never really got their bearings back.
Still, EAC could console itself with the fact that it remained on track to snatch that hotly contested last berth
Lions plant one foot in NCAA semifinals
to the Final Four. Meanwhile, Mapua relied on Marc Cuenco’s hot hands as it ripped University of Perpetual Help apart, 71-57, to extend its streak to six. Cuenco waxed hot from beyond
the arc where he drained a whopping six booming treys and finished with a game-high 21 points as the Cardinals continued to remain untouchable in the second round in six games to improve to 12-3.
That kept Mapua half a game be -
and Baron Travel. If no participant scores an ace, these prizes will be raffled off, adding a thrill of anticipation for every golfer in attendance.
hind pace-setting College of St. Benilde (12-2) and two games ahead of No. 3 San Beda (10-5).
“Nagpapasalamat ako sa coaches na pinag-shoo-shooting kami every practice,” said Cuenco. The Altas fainted to 6-10.
continues busy month for PH MMA
ANOTHER top local Philippines fighter is set to make his Lumpinee Stadium debut.
National flyweight champion Eros Baluyot marks his first appearance under the ONE Championship banner when he takes on dangerous Russian Changy Kara-Ool in a three-round strawweight MMA bout at ONE Friday Fights 87 on November 15. Baluyot stakes his unbeaten record against the tough Russian, who’s already notched two finishes inside the Lumpinee ring. But the Submission Sports representative in Baluyot is unfazed and wants to show a different kind of skill set owing to his BJJ background.
While most Pinoys are known as dangerous strikers, the 32-year-old comes in with a variety of submission wins – one from an armbar and another from a triangle choke, making him one of the most versatile Filipinos off the back.
Baluyot also owns a win over former ONE Strawweight MMA World Title contender Rene Catalan. He overwhelmed the Catalan Fighting Systems founder with his takedowns and top pressure before getting the TKO win with strikes from his back. Now Baluyot hopes to take the next
step in his career, and what better way than by stopping the ascending Kara-Ool in his tracks to prove that there’s more to Filipino MMA than just striking.
Baluyot’s debut comes during a busy stretch for Filipino combat sports stars.
Recently, Marwin Quirante and Jayson Miralpez made their respective Friday Fights debuts. Quirante’s versatile striking shined as he took a first-round TKO win over Phan Thanh Tung.
Miralpez, on the other hand, dropped a decision loss to Robson de Oliveira but made a good account of himself as he grappled with the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt for three rounds. Then this weekend, two big backto-back cards are set to cater to Pinoy fans.
Fil-Am striking star Jackie Buntan takes a shot at gold when she battles Anissa Meksen for the inaugural ONE Women’s Strawweight Kickboxing World Championship in the co-main event of ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug this Saturday morning, November 9. Third-ranked flyweight Danny “The King” Kingad will also be back in action on the same card when
ONE Friday Fights 87: Baluyot continues busy month for PH MMA
he faces #1-ranked contender Adriano Moraes in a rematch of their 2017 World Title contest.
Eddie Abasolo, another Fil-Am striker, also returns against Mohamed Younes Rabah in a featherweight Muay Thai bout. The night before that card, the Philippines will likewise be well
Xiandi Chua, the 2023 Southeast Asian Games 200m backstroke champion, clinched additional slots for the World Cup Championships in Budapest, Hungary, by achieving the Qualifying Time Standard (B) in the 200m backstroke (2:09.71) and 400m Individual Medley (4:45.41).
Her 400m IM time broke Georgina Peregrina’s Philippine record.
Joining Chua at the World Cup is Chloe Isleta, the 2022 Southeast Asian Games gold medalist. Isleta secured her spots with impressive times in the 100m Individual Medley (1:01.59) and 100m backstroke (59.80).
The Philippine team also set new national records, with Joshua Ang in the 100m butterfly (53.65 seconds); Rian Marco Adiong Tirol in the 50m breaststroke (27.56 seconds) and Mi-
represented as three of the country’s fighters will compete at ONE Friday Fights 86 on November 8.
Islay Erika Bomogao makes her highly anticipated debut when she battles Japanese striker Fuu in a 100-pound catchweight Muay Thai bout, while two other MMA rising stars are also set for their respective returns.
randa Renner in the 50m butterfly (26.75 seconds). PAI Secretary General Eric Buhain expressed pride in the team’s performance, acknowledging the challenges and celebrating their achievements. He emphasized the team’s dedication and potential for future success.
“We’re far from our ultimate goal, but we’re moving in that direction. What we’re experiencing right now is the usual lows and highs of any sport, we win some and lose some. Wins like this, however small, are still important to us because it means we’re capable of giving out the best shots at any opportunity. The road to success is never easy, but our swimmers are taking that road,” said Buhain.
In addition to the major prizes, players skilled (or fortunate) enough to score an ace will receive exclusive prizes from top sponsors such as Ogawa, Time Golf Corp. (K&G), MF Electric Golf Carts, Hyundai Motors Philippines, Global Matrix Concept Group, Gamboa and Sons, Inc. (Gransportivo), Isla LPG Corp. and J-Ten Sports, Inc. (Srixon). These premium awards amplify the excitement and competition, inspiring golfers to perform at their best and making the Chairman’s Charity Cup one of the most highly anticipated tournaments of the year.
With an anticipated 500-player roster this year, surpassing last year’s 472 participants, the tournament continues to grow in popularity. Organizers have introduced a new two-person, member-member team format, where teams will play using an aggregate scoring system. Each player’s score will be added to determine the team’s total, creating an engaging mix of camaraderie and competitive spirit.
Sponsored by a robust lineup of companies, the tournament includes Platinum sponsors Atlas Circuits, Inc., Leads Agri/Malveda Properties and Development Corp., San Miguel Corp., and The Turf Company. The Gold sponsors include Abomar Equipment Sales Corp., Agrexplore Corp., Srixon and Coca-Cola Bottlers Philippines.
EROS BALUYOT
San Beda’s Bismarck Lina
shoots against EAC’s JC Luciano in an NCAA game won by the Red Lions, 89-59.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
Fil-Am seeks 3rd straight figure-skating national title
By Peter Atencio
SOFIA Lexi Jacqueline Frank will seek to earn her third straight crown in the two-day 2024 Philippine National Figure Skating Championships, which starts Thursday at the SM Skating Rink of Mall of Asia.
The 19-year-old Frank, a FilipinoAmerican standout from Los Angeles, is among six entries seeking podium finishes in senior women’s open.
Competing for honors against Frank are Maxine Bautista, Skye Chua, Sasha Gianmarco, Cathryn Limketkai and Skye Patenia.
Action begins at 11:45 a.m. in the 19 categories.
Frank, the daughter of beauty queen Precious Tongko, is on her fourth competitive season and recently won first place at the 2024 Southeast Asian Open Figure Skating Trophy.
Twenty-two promising skaters will show their wares in the juvenile girls’ open division.
Among those joining are Levia Hing, Sunzei Villaflor, Georgina Nicolas and Heleine Patrimonio.
Organizers have also listed seven participants in the open pre-juvenile girls’ action.
PVL underdog teams eye fresh starts, strong
finishes
WITH the Premier Volleyball League’s commitment to creating a balanced and competitive environment, teams like Capital1 and Farm Fresh are setting their sights even higher, eager to improve upon their previous performances.
Meanwhile, ZUS Coffee and Galeries Tower are also poised to surprise fans, unveiling revamped rosters that could shake up the standings in the 2024-25 PVL AllFilipino Conference, which unveils this Saturday (Nov. 9) at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
This guarantees thrilling matchups and a season of unexpected twists as each team vies for a stronger finish in the record six-month long conference.
After a commendable seventhplace finish in the Reinforced Conference, Capital1, under the guidance of head coach Roger Gorayeb, is ready to elevate its game with the Solar Spikers meticulously preparing to overcome the gap left by former import Marina Tushova.
The core players, including Rica Rivera, Leila Cruz, Julia Ipac and Jorelle Singh, have been working hard to fill this void by enhancing their scoring and defensive capabilities.
Fueled by a sense of responsibility and unity, Capital1 boasts of players committed to deliver topnotch performances. Their debut game on Nov. 12 against the Chery Tiggo Crossovers will be an opportunity to showcase their hard work, aiming to surpass their previous finish and become serious contenders in the league organized by Sports Vision.
Twin wins for Alas Women in Asian beach volley meet
ALAS Pilipinas, the Philippine women’s beach volleyball teams, kicked off their campaigns at the Asian Senior Beach Volleyball Championships with strong performances on Wednesday.
The duo of Khylem Progella and Sofiah Pagara secured a 21-19, 21-18 victory over New Zealand’s Shauna Polley and Olivia MacDonald in Pool E. Meanwhile, Gen Eslapor and Kly Orillaneda dominated their Pool F match, defeating Kazakhstan’s Yekaterina Ryukhova and Anastassiya Ukolova 21-19, 21-13.
The tournament, hosted by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and sanctioned by the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) -- both headed by Ramon “Tats” Suzara, is currently underway at the Nuvali Sand Courts in Santa Rosa City.
The Philippines, however, suffered an early dou-
ble whammy in the men’s side as D’Artagnan Potts and Jack Pearse of Australia downed Rancel Varga and Lerry John Francisco, 21-11, 21-16.
Southeast Asian Games bronze medalists Ran Abdilla and James Buytrago also dropped their first match, a tight 20-22, 19-21 loss to Alani Nicklin and Thomas Hartles of New Zealand.
AVC Beach Tour Nuvali Open champions Jana Milutinovic and Stefanie Fejes of Australia were also off to a hot start via a 21-11, 21-13 rout of Japanese qualifiers Kana Motomura and Nayu Motomura.
The top-rated pair of Wang Jingzhe and Xia Xinyi of China eased past Indonesian qualifiers Kaize Josephine Selvina Anasthasya and Melinda
COLLEGE of Saint Benilde stunned University of the Philippines in a quick, 25-19, 25-14, 25-20, decision in the first phase of the 2024 Shakey’s Super League Collegiate Pre-season Championship classification round Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
The three-peat NCAA champions Lady Blazers repelled the Fighting Maroons’ late third set fightback to complete the 79-minute rout and move on to the battle for fifth.
Clydel Catarig, Mycah Go and Grace Borromeo led Saint Benilde’s balanced scoring to end a fourgame slide in the tournament 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 Lady Blazers setter Cheanae Basarte effectively activated her attackers to pepper UP with 40 attack points.
Philippine Olympic Committee, City of Santa Rosa, Mikasa, Senoh, Asics, Akari, Sip, Cignal, One Sports, One Sports Plus and Pilipinas Live. Australia’s Tara Phillips and Kayl Mears scored a 21-12, 21-13 victory over Kazakhstan’s Laura Kabulbekova and Nadezhda Ivanchenko. Indonesia’s Desi Ratnasari and Nur Atika Sari held off Thailand’s Patcharaporn Seehawong and Samitta Simarongnam, 22-20, 18-21, 15-7. China’s Xue Chen and Zeng Jinjin posted a 2114, 21-11 drubbing of Japan’s Ren Matsumoto and Non Matsumoto. Thai qualifiers Salinda Mungkhon and Somruedee Koedkaew pulled off a 14-21, 21-18, 15-8 win over Vanuatu’s Sherysyn Van Toko and Majabelle Lawac.
“Sa amin naman ginagawa namin ‘yung trabaho namin bilang kami lang ang NCAA team na pumasok (sa playoffs). Gusto namin makipagsabayan din kasi ‘yun ang trabaho namin,” said Basartel, who dished out 10 excellent sets.
“Iniisip namin na makakatulong ang Shakey’s (Super League) pagpasok sa NCAA,” she added. Catarig finished with eight points, all from kills, while Borromeo had seven markers. Go, Cristy Ondangan and Zamantha Nolasco chipped in with six points each for the Jerry Yeementored squad. Saint Benilde will face the winner between Ateneo de Manila University and University of the East in the fifth place match of the competition which has Smart Sports, PLDT Fibr, Mikasa, Asics, Rebel Sports, Eurotel, Victory Liner, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and SM Tickets as technical partners on November 16.
The Lady Blazers saw their 20-14 third set lead trimmed down to just two, 22-20, after the Fighting Maroons mounted a late uprising led by Irah Jaboneta.
By Randy Caluag
RALPH Rian “Apollo” Batican led the Philippines to a notable finish in the recent Singha Thailand Junior World Golf Championships, capturing the boys’ Class C division title at the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course in Hua Hin, Thailand. Batican secured a solid threestroke lead after 15 holes, highlighted by a crucial eagle on the 10th hole. Despite a slightly tense finish, he stayed ahead to win by three strokes to prevent a gold-less campaign by the Philippines. The Philippine junior golf team also got impressive finishes, with three bronze medals from other standout performances.
Reese Ng claimed bronze in the Class A girls’ division, Athena Batican took bronze in the Class C girls, and the boys’ team of TJ Padilla and Geoff Tan earned bronze in the team event. In the Girls’ Division A, Reese Ng’s final score of 13-over secured her 3rd place. Vietnam’s Chuc An Le won the division at 9-over, with Sri Lanka’s Kaya Daluwatte finishing 2nd at 10-over.
TJ Padilla narrowly missed a podium spot in Boys Division A, finishing one stroke behind Sweden’s Theodor Kruus, who placed 3rd at 11-over. Thailand’s Srichatphirun topped the division at 4-over, and Singapore’s Samuel Tan followed in
2nd at 8-over.
In Boys’ Division B, Geoff Tan tied for 4th at 18-over, while Emil Hernandez placed 9th with a 26-over total. Thailand’s Kenanan took the top spot with a score of 1-over, and Chuangprayoon came in 2nd at 9-over. Nicole Gan placed 6th in Girls’ Division B with a 21-over score. Thailand’s Tawinsang dominated the division with a winning score of 6-under, followed by Kamolborvorn at 4-over and Japan’s Chikashige in 3rd at 9-over. In the Boys’ Team Category, Padilla and Tan finished in 3rd place with a combined 30-over. Thailand claimed the team victory with an 18-over total, while Singapore came 2nd at 24-over.
Khylem Progella and Sofiah Pagara of the Philippines in action vs Australia in the Asian Beach Volleyball Championships.
Novita Sari Devi, 21-14, 21-10, in the event backed by Nuvali, Ayala Land, Rebisco, Smart, Philippine Sports Commission,
SOFIA LEXI JACQUELINE FRANK
Blazers celebrate. (Roman Prospero)
Ralph Rian “Apollo” Batican displays his championship trophy. TGA via NGAP
(DBM)
In her sponsorship speech, Senate committee on nance chairperson, Senator Grace Poe, says the P6.352trillion proposed national budget for FY 2025 prioritizes
Decline in agriculture output in Q3
Drop in rice harvests in Q3
Decline in fisheries output in Q3
Farm output shrank 3.7% in third quarter
By Othel V. Campos
ADVERSE weather and the lingering effects of African Swine Fever on hog production hurt agricultural output in the third quarter of 2024, with production value declining by 3.7 percent year-on-year to P397.43 billion, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
The fisheries subsector also felt the effects of adverse weather, with its production value dropping 5.5 percent year-on-year to P55.48 billion in the third quarter.
“Undeniably, the combined impacts of El Niño and La Niña weighed down palay production, a major component of the crop sector, which makes up over half of the value of agricultural and fisheries output,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.
By Darwin G. Amojelar
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Wednesday it approved new guidelines to enhance the operational resilience of supervised financial institutions (BSFIs).
The “Guidelines on Operational Resilience” aims to strengthen BSFIs’ ability to manage and mitigate the impact of disruptions on their critical operations, given frequent natural disasters and fast-paced advancements in technology.
It said the guidelines also help ensure that financial services remain available despite prolonged business interruptions, such as those experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This is in line with the BSP’s thrust to foster continuous delivery of financial services to support inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
“The new guidelines are crucial given the increasing threats to business operations. They complement our previous efforts to strengthen the financial resilience of supervised institutions. Operational resilience ensures the overall safety and soundness of both individual institutions and the entire financial system,” BSP Governor Eli Remolona Jr. said.
The guidelines require BSFIs to integrate operational resilience with existing governance structures and related risk management processes, such as operational risk management, business continuity management, cyber resilience, third-party risk management, and recovery plans. The guidelines also consider the “Principles for Operational Resilience” issued by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision.
Tiu Laurel said to mitigate climate-related challenges, the Department of Agriculture (DA) is implementing changes to the rice cropping calendar and constructing infrastructure like water impounding dams to support the farming sector.
Despite the overall decline, there were bright spots in the data.
Corn production value rose 1.3 percent, while poultry output increased 5.8 percent, reaching P68.66 billion in the quarter.
The DA chief also highlighted ongoing efforts by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), in collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to develop an effective vaccine for African Swine Fever (ASF)—a disease that has severely impacted the hog industry since the initial outbreak in 2019.
PSA data showed that palay production value fell 12.3 percent year-on-year in the third quarter, contributing to a 5.1 percent decline in total crop output, which totaled P211.62 billion. Hog production, a significant component of the livestock subsector, dropped 8 percent.
Crops accounted for 53 percent of total agricultural production value, while livestock contributed around 16 percent.
Livestock output value decreased by 6.7 percent, amounting to P61.67 billion, according to the PSA.
SENATOR Pia Cayetano, chair of the Senate committee on energy, said Senate Bill (SB) 2793, or the proposed Philippine Natural Gas Industry Development Act, which was approved on second reading Tuesday, will promote energy security and protect consumers from higher electricity costs.
“Let us prioritize indigenous natural gas; this is ours. It will promote energy security and the record shows that it has by far more stable in pricing and lower in pricing,” Cayetano said.
“We have the potential to explore, to discover and to develop our indigenous
natural gas. Why are they [investors] not coming in? Because since the ‘70s, we neglected investing and encouraging promotion of indigenous natural gas. After Malampaya was discovered, it was neglected,” she said.
Cayetano said the Senate has a “oncein-a-lifetime chance” to pass a key piece of legislation prioritizing indigenous fuel over imports, adding that over a span of 14 years, indigenous gas prices have remained steady compared to the volatile and often rising costs of imported fuels.
Cayetano, during plenary deliberations, opposed the competitive bidding amend-
THE trade deficit of the Philippines widened to $5.1 billion in September 2024 from $3.5 billion a year ago,
ment to SB 2793, arguing that this would be counterproductive and deter potential investors looking to develop the country’s indigenous gas fields. She said this would contradict the goal of the measure, which seeks to create an investor-friendly environment in the Philippine natural gas industry. The amendment lost 15-4.
Cayetano said while gas supply and purchase agreements are negotiated, the Department of Energy (DOE) and Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) ensure consumers are protected from high electricity prices.
to $55.67 billion from $55.08 billion a year ago, while imports inched up to $95.07 billion from $94.49 billion. Electronic products recorded the highest annual decline in September exports, but remained the top exports during the month with total earnings of $3.15 billion or 50.3 percent of the total. Exports to the United States reached $1.08 billion. Other top markets were Hongkong, Japan, China and Korea. Meanwhile, the commodity group with the highest import value in September 2024 was electronic products, which amounted to $2.40 billion. This was followed by mineral fuels, lubricants, and related materials and transport equipment. -3.7% -12.3% -5.5%
THE Philippines emerged as Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing internet economy, according to the 9th edition of the Google e-Conomy SEA Report by Google, Temasek and Bain & Company.
The report highlighted a 20-percent growth in the Philippines’ digital economy, with gross merchandise value (GMV) increasing from $26 billion to $31 billion in 2024, underscoring the nation’s digital transformation and position in the global digital economy.
The study attributed the growth to strong domestic consumption, a robust services sector and increased remittances from overseas workers.
Stabilizing infl ation and falling unemployment rates boosted private consumption and demand for digital services.
Department of Trade and Industry
Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque attributed the Philippines’ good standing in the report to the success of the Marcos administration’s digital reforms.
“The results of the 2024 Google, Temasek and Bain & Co. Study reaffirms the effectiveness of the administration’s digital economy strategies. The country’s whole-of-government approach fosters economic growth, drives innovation, and ultimately improves the lives of all Filipinos,” Roque said.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revised upward the second-quarter gross domestic product (GDP) growth of the Philippines to 6.4 percent from 6.3 percent.
The PSA said in a statement the major contributors to the upward revision were manufacturing which grew by 3.9 percent, and accommodation and food service activities which went up 12.1 percent.
The PSA said real estate and ownership of dwellings, which rose 7.6 percent, also contributed to the upward revision.
Upward revisions were also observed in the second quarter annual growth rates of the gross national income from 7.9 percent to 8.1 percent and the net primary income from the rest of the world
PH stocks drop, peso plunges on US presidential election results
By Alena Mae S. Flores
BOTH the peso and Philippine stocks fell Wednesday as investors reacted to the initial results of the US presidential elections.
The Philippine Stock Exchange index lost 1.27 percent to 7,165.42, as investors traded cautiously while monitoring the US elections, Philstocks Financial Inc research head Japhet Tantiangco said.
The broader all-shares index also declined 0.59 percent to 3,969.97.
“Investors are pricing in the possibility of a Trump presidency which is known to be heavily leaning towards protectionist policies that may have negative implications on the global economy,” Tantiangco said.
“This is as early counts show Mr. Donald Trump taking the lead. The market was also weighed by the weakening of the local currency,” he said.
Trading was tepid, with net value turnover posting P4.41 billion, below the year-to-date average of P5.16 billion.
Foreigners were net sellers, with net outflows amounting to P1.12 billion.
All sectors were in the negative territory with the properties losing the most, down by 2.94 percent. Decliners edged advancers 113 to 86.
Century Pacific Food Inc. was the top index gainer, climbing 1.94 percent to P4, while Ayala Land, Inc. was the main index laggard, falling 4.35 percent to P33.00. Meanwhile, the peso closed at 58.66 against the US dollar Wednesday, down from 58.31 Tuesday. The dollar surged and bitcoin hit a record high Wednesday before Donald Trump claimed victory in the US election, with traders ramping up bets on fresh tax cuts, tariffs, and rising inflation.
Century Pacific Food logs P5.3-b income on higher sales
CENTURY Pacifi c Food Inc.
(CNPF) said Wednesday net income grew 14 percent to P5.3 billion in the fi rst nine months of 2024 from the same period last year.
The company booked P56.9 billion in consolidated sales, up by 13 percent year-on-year, led by the outperformance of the OEM exports business and resilience in the branded segment.
CNPF’s third-quarter sales also increased 13 percent, while net income rose 15 percent, a close reflection of its year-to-date performance.
Majority of CNPF’s revenues stem
Manila Water rolls out P359-m tech optimization project
from the Branded business — composed of marine, meat and milk and other emerging segments.
The company said that amid a soft consumer environment, the segment continued to post sustained growth, supported by a diverse portfolio of brands spanning progressive price tiers.
Meanwhile, the OEM exports business, captured both the tuna and coconut exports. The segment saw an upswing in 2024 coming from a soft 2023 as commodity prices and forex trended favorably compared to the same period the year before.
MANILA Water Co. Inc. is rolling out P359-million integration of communication and automation technologies at its Calawis and medium-term common line (MTCL) water supply system projects (WSSP) phase 1.
The tech integration project will streamline operations and maintenance across these facilities to optimize operational efficiency in delivering water supply service to customers.
Called the Calawis-MTCL System Integration Package 7, the project features various upgrades to facilities in Antipolo City, namely the Lucban Pumping Station and Reservoir and Maguey Pumping Station and Reservoir; and the newly-built Cabading Booster, the Calawis Booster and the Calawis Water Treatment Plant.
The water company said it has been implementing key components of the system integration project that include installation of communication towers, utilization of microwave radio technology, and deployment of both underground and aerial fiber optic cabling since April 2022. These advanced systems will ensure effective and reliable communication across the water supply network.
The system’s network elements are also equipped with sensors to monitor crucial parameters such as water pressure and flow rate, ensuring safe and efficient operations throughout the system.
Another significant feature of the project is the installation of a central SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) system, which will enable real-time data monitoring, integrated operations across multiple facilities, and early detection of any disruptions or issues within the water supply network.
Gross margins expanded by 240 basis points (bps) to 26.6 percent in the nine-month period, as input costs improved.
“Gains were reinvested into operating expenses to fund demand-generating activities, brand-building programs, innovations and sustainability initiatives,” the company said.
As a result of the company’s reinvestment efforts, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization in the first nine months of the year improved by 11 percent.
Darwin G. Amojelar
ALI’s profit rose 15% to P21.2b in nine months
By Darwin G. Amojelar
Manila Water’s Cabading Booster facility’s communication tower ensures e ective and reliable communication across the water supply network. This is part of the tech upgrade to monitor crucial parameters such as water pressure and ow rate, ensuring safe and e cient operations throughout the system.
THE government’s plan to make a smart and disaster-resilient community in New Clark City is being torpedoed by a recalcitrant landfill operator.
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and unit Clark Development Corp. (CDC) have envisioned a new metropolis on an area straddling Pampanga and Tarlac provinces.
New Clark City or Clark Green City will emerge as country’s first green and smart city that can rise to the challenges of climate change. Its development includes the establishment of a modern landfill site utilizing carbon-neutral technologies and make Clark Green City a hub for premier and tourism destination.
A Danish company specializing in energy-efficient solutions earlier offered to develop a decarbonization framework for New Clark City.
The BCDA is open to the the company’s roadmap for green urban transition. The plan, per a Danfoss Philippines executive, shows how cities can act as ambitious and inspirational front-runners with green technology that creates attractive places to live and work.
Singapore, meanwhile, is lending its hand to develop New Clark City after the recent visit of
AYALA Land, Inc. (ALI) on Wednesday reported a 15-percent increase in net income to P21.2 billion in the first nine months of 2024 from the same period last year.
Consolidated revenues surged 27 percent to P125.2 billion, led by robust property demand and consumer activity.
The company’s property development revenues rose 34 percent to P76.6 billion, on the back of higher residential and commercial lot bookings.
Residential revenues improved 35 percent to P64.2 billion, while revenues from commercial and industrial lots surged 51 percent to P10.4 billion.
Office-for-sale revenues for the period stood at P2 billion mainly from project bookings.
Nine-month residential sales reservations increased 17 percent to P100.5 billion, driven by the premium market.
“We are pleased with the solid results delivered across our business lines,” said ALI president and chief executive Anna Ma. Margarita Bautista-Dy.
“With signs of market headwinds clearing, coupled with our reinvention initiatives, we look forward to continue delivering high-quality products to our stakeholders,” she said.
The company’s strong sales per-
formance translated into a monthly average of P11.2 billion — better than the P9.5 billion average during the previous year.
Total launches for the period reached P45.6 billion, with a 5149 split between vertical and horizontal projects.
Notable launches in the third quarter were AyalaLand Premier’s (ALP) Orchard Vistas at Anvaya Cove in Bataan and Ayala Greenfield Estates Brookside Park in Calamba, Laguna; Avida’s midrise condominium offering, Sentria Storeys Vermosa in Cavite; and the second tower of Amaia Skies Sta. Mesa in the city of Manila.
Meanwhile, leasing and hospitality revenues totaled P33.2 billion, or 8 percent higher than in 2023 owing to the contribution of new assets namely, One Ayala Mall and East and West Office towers, Ayala Triangle Gardens Tower Two, and Seda Manila Bay. Shopping center revenues advanced 7 percent to P16.7 billion, while office leasing grew by 7 percent to P9.4 billion.
Hotel and resort revenues reached P7.1 billion, up 13 percent year on-year.
Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to the Philippines this year.
The Clark vision, though, may have to wait if Metro Clark Waste Management Corp., operator of Kalangitan sanitary landfill facilities in Capas, Tarlac, continues to insist on its flawed legal arguments before the Capas, Tarlac Regional Trial Court (RTC), Branch 66.
Presiding Judge Ronald Leo Haban of Capas (RTC), Branch 66, unfortunately, favored Metro Clark with a temporary restraining order and a subsequent preliminary injunction despite a pending similar case before the Angeles City RTC in Pampanga. The Angeles court has dismissed Metro Clark’s complaint.
The Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) has already opined that extending the contract between CDC and Metro Clark beyond October 2024 would be against the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Law, the framework used in bidding and awarding the contract for the project.
Besides, the BCDA maintains that a sanitary landfill is no longer consistent with the government’s vision of transforming New Clark City into a premier investment and tourism destination.
An adamant Metro Clark ignored the provisions of the BOT law and, instead, invoked Republic Act 7652, or the the Investors’ Lease Act.
Metro Clark brushed aside the crucial provisions of the BOT law, that is no TRO or injunction may be issued against national projects. Judge
Metro Clark brushed aside the crucial provisions of the BOT law, that is no TRO or injunction may be issued against national projects.
Haban, nonetheless, issued a TRO and injunction against the government bodies implementing the BOT project.
The Capas RTC judge may have exercised a grave abuse of discretion in this case. The Angeles City RTC swiftly identified flaws within the case. It recognized the redundancy of Metro Clark’s filing, identical to the ongoing case in Judge Haban’s court.
In the first place, there should be no dispute regarding the written legal document governing Metro Clark’s occupation of the 100-hectare landfill. It is a contract with an expiration date—a fundamental element of agreements between lessor and lessee.
Metro Clark’s claim of an unwritten provision for a 50-year extension is misleading Any court or judge should clearly recognize the absence of legal authority for Metro Clark to cling to the landfill site without a valid contract.
The lessor is not legally obligated to renew
the agreement if it chooses a different utilization for its property. Moreover, any court should have acknowledged its lack of jurisdiction over contractual matters.
The Capas RTC judge should have promptly dismissed the complaint based on forum shopping, as the complainant had initiated the case in another court.
The Capas judge also disregarded Republic Act 8975, which prohibits any court, except the Supreme Court, from issuing TROs or injunctions to impede the government’s progress on national projects, including terminating or rescinding contracts.
Metro Clark had ample time to prepare for its contract expiration. Instead, it resorted to exaggerated scenarios to justify its legal position. It refused to acknowledge the authority of BCDA and CDC by citing weak legal arguments.
The landfill poses an environmental hazard and could threaten local health and safety. By refusing to vacate, Metro Clark endangers the health of the community after conceding that it is unable to continue waste disposal because of the contract expiration. Its refusal to respect the authority of the CDC and BCDA smacks of disrespect and arrogance.
E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com
Discredited landfill operator obscures Clark Green City’s vision
OVIALAND PROJECT. Ovialand Inc. launches Sentro, its second project with Takara Leben Co. Ltd., a Japanese rm. Sentro, a 9.7-hectare development in San Pablo, Laguna, will have 746 housing units. The project, located three minutes from the city center, is set to begin turnover in late 2025. Sentro will strengthen Ovialand’s presence in San Pablo, where the company completed nearly 3,000 housing units. The new project will o er townhouses, duplexes, and single-detached units, all featuring Ovialand’s classic design and premium nishes.
BCDA, NDC sign deal for high impact projects in New Clark City
By Othel V. Campos
THE Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said Wednesday it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the National Development Co. (NDC) to leverage NDC’s expertise in financing and implementing highimpact projects in New Clark City.
BIR raids stop 506 illicit vape resellers amid nat’l crackdown
BUREAU of Internal Revenue (BIR)
Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said Wednesday the agency BIR caught 506 illicit vape retailers/resellers nationwide as of Oct. 31, 2024.
The BIR said it conducted simultaneous and nationwide raids against illicit vape retailers and resellers on Oct. 16, 2024.
Lumagui also ordered weekly raids by the agency’s revenue regions and revenue districts.
The increase of closed stores to 506 was a result of the weekly raids of the BIR, he said.
“As of the end of October 2024, the BIR has caught 506 illicit vape retailers/resellers during our raids. After our nationwide raid last October 16, there was a substantial increase of illicit vape stores. The BIR will not stop raiding illicit vape retailers/resellers until the vape industry complies with our tax laws and regulations. Expect regular raids,” Lumagui said.
The BIR estimates a tax liability, inclusive of penalties, of P181,695,490.14 as a result of the continuous raids. Non-payment of excise taxes, lack of internal revenue stamps and lack of BIR registration of the vape products are the common violations of illicit vape retailers/resellers.
The BIR said it would release regular updates on its nationwide crackdown against illicit vape retailers/resellers, including reports on the total number of illicit vape stores and their total tax liability.
CLARK Development Corp. (CDC)
led a discussion among the government, private sector and aviation stakeholders to enhance processes in the aviation sector.
Organized by CDC’s Trade Facilitation Division (TFD), the discussion aimed to improve the turnaround times for importing and exporting aircraft parts, tools, equipment, petroleum and chemicals that are essential for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services within the Clark Freeport Zone.
CDC president and chief executive Agnes Devanadera said Clark hosts 39 aviation locators, contributing about approximately $622 million in investments and supporting nearly 2,000 jobs as of June 2024. The sector is expected to grow significantly over the next two to three years, attracting further investments from expanding airlines, MROs, and aviation manufacturing and allied services. Devanadera urged stakeholders to adopt measures to expedite tax assessments, approvals and green lane cargo releases, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
In line with Philippine regulations, the entry of specific goods and chemicals is subject to taxation and law enforcement review to prevent illegal use.
The Philippines also supports the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1540 and Republic Act No. 10697 aimed at preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Othel V. Campos
BCDA president and chief executive Joshua Bingcang and NDC general manager Antonilo Mauricio signed the partnership create a collaborative framework for New Clark City’s urban development.
“We thank NDC for sharing its expertise in financing and implementing projects, especially in urban expansion, industrial development, and energy. With over a century of experience, NDC will be instrumental in transforming New Clark City into the country’s first smart, sustainable, and future-ready metropolis,” Bingcang said.
BCDA chairperson Hilario Paredes highlighted the shared vision for national development to enable transformative projects that help New Clark City reach its full potential.
Under the MOU, BCDA and NDC will explore collaboration opportunities and prepare a feasibility study that may include technical and commercial assessments of developments on BCDA properties.
Given its interest in New Clark City’s 9,450-hectare greenfield site in the Clark Special Economic Zone, NDC envisions the city as an inclusive, resilient, sustainable, and smart hub to decongest Metro Manila and drive Central Luzon’s growth.
Mauricio said the partnership allows NDC to leverage BCDA’s expertise in city-building, citing successes like Bonifacio Global City.
As the government’s investment arm, NDC supports ventures across sectors to drive national economic development.
By Jenni er B. Austria
D&L Industries Inc. expects this year’s net profit to surpass last year’s P2.3 billion after it reported positive profit in the first nine month of 2024.
D&L president and chief executive Alvin Lao said with P1.8-billion net income booked in the first nine months, it needs to earn P520 million to match 2023’s profit.
“We did P493 million in the third quarter. Fourth quarter should be better, especially for the food segment because it’s the ‘ber’ months [Christmas season]. So we should see 2024 better than last year,” he said.
D&L’s recurring income from January to September grew 1 percent year-on-year to P1.8 billion.
Meanwhile, earnings stood at P493 million in the third quarter, down 11 percent from a year ago largely due to higher cost base resulting from newly-commissioned lines inside the firm’s new Batangas plant.
Lao noted, however, the new plant nearly achieved break-even level despite the higher costs for the quarter.
“What we are seeing now is the natural cycle of operating a new plant. As we further ramp up operations, cost base will increase but this should be offset by the new business that we expect to come in,” said Lao.
Italy to increase fashion exports, other items to PH
ITALY plans to expand the export of high-quality fashion and lifestyle goods to the Philippines, signaling a move to deepen economic and cultural ties with Southeast Asia.
Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs director-general for country promotion Mauro Battocchi highlighted the potential for increased trade during a high-level business delegation to Manila.
“There’s great potential for exporting Italian consumer goods – fashion, food, furniture. These elements defi ne Italy as a lifestyle reference worldwide, and as the Philippines opens up more to the world, there is a growing interest in Italian goods,” Battocchi said Wednesday at the sidelines of the two-day high-level dialogue on ASEAN-Italy Economic Relations in Manila from Nov. 5 to 6, 2024. The push is poised to strengthen the economic relationship between Italy and the ASEAN region, with Italian investments in the Philippines valued at around 700 million euros. Battocchi said while these figures are promising, there is room for further growth.
Italy is especially focused on sectors such as green technology and machinery designed for agricultural advancement.
Philippine Trade Undersecretary Rafelita Aldaba emphasized the tangible outcomes of the relationship, pointing to a rise in trade between ASEAN and Italy.
Bilateral trade reached notable levels in 2021, with Italian exports to ASEAN totaling 11 billion euros and ASEAN exports to Italy reaching 9 billion euros.
Aldaba said the Philippines is strategically positioned to benefi t from the partnership given its youthful, tech-savvy workforce and ongoing commitment to sustainable development.
Othel V. Campos
AirAsia crew receive training against trafficking
By Darwin G. Amojelar
AIRASIA Philippines teamed up with the Bureau of Immigration, Manila International Airport and the Philippine National Police in anticipation of the upcoming peak holiday season to ensure the highest levels of safety and wellbeing for all guests. The collaboration with key industry stakeholders aims to strengthen security at the country’s primary gateways, especially when it comes to important issues such as human trafficking during the busy travel period.
Hundreds of AirAsia Allstars including ground staff, security and flight crew received specialized training to spot, profile, and provide assistance to trafficking victims, the company said.
It said the initiative also aims to support government authorities in closely monitoring the growing numbers reported by the Bureau of Immigration which, as of September this year, included about 700 intercepted human trafficking victims.
“The comfort and wellbeing of our guests and crew is always our top pri-
ority. Our strong collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders through proper reporting channels and robust safety/security management systems contribute to protecting Filipinos when they choose to fly with AirAsia,” said AirAsia Philippines head of communications and public affairs Steve Dailisan.
The proactive approach, in conjunction with the Bureau of Immigration, was recently put into action in alignment with AirAsia’s strict procedures when a potential trafficking incident occurred and was intercepted.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
SSMFB
“Our performance this year highlights the strength of our diversified portfolio,” said SMFB chairman Ramon Ang.
“Through strategic investments in our brands, cost management and by adapting to market trends, we are building resilience and setting the stage for long-term growth. Beyond profits, we view ourselves as partners in nation-building, ensuring that our products and initiatives contribute to economic progress and community support,” he said.
SMFB’s consolidated net income margin remained steady at 10 percent, reflecting its commitment to growth, operational efficiency and delivering value to shareholders.
Sales of San Miguel Foods rose 4 percent to P134.3 billion, supported by increased volumes.
The prepared and packaged food segment led the way, with an 11 percent revenue increase, driven by strong demand for key products like Purefoods Luncheon Meat, Magnolia dairy and San Mig Coffee.
San Miguel Brewery Inc. (SMBI) reported consolidated revenues of P111.2 billion, a 3-percent growth, driven by higher volumes.
Domestic sales reached P99.1 billion, with international sales totaling $212.4 million. Ginebra San Miguel Inc. achieved a 17-percent sales increase, reaching P45.6 billion, on higher prices and volumes.
Operating income increased, with earnings before interest, taxes and amortization (EBITDA) at P7.1 billion.
SMFB said strong brand performance and efficient distribution further strengthened the beverage segment.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
RL Commercial REIT Inc. (RCR), the largest REIT in terms of geographical reach, posted revenues of P5.74 billion in the fi rst nine months of 2024, or 41 percent higher than in the same period last year, driven by its huge asset infusion and steady occupancy rates.
RCR said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange Wednesday revenues also grew 111 percent in the third quarter to P1.55 billion versus the second quarter as a result of the completed transfer of 13 properties via property-for-share swap with its sponsor, Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC) which was approved by Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Sept. 19, 2024.
Revenues and expenses of the 13 properties were accrued to RCR beginning April 1, 2024.
It said this represented the third batch of asset Infusion by RCR since its initial public offering.
RCR maintained its strong financial position with assets totaling to P103.20 billion, shareholders’ equity of P98.69 billion and remains debt-free.
“The 13 multi-asset infusion valued at P33.92 billion has been the largest single infusion done by any Philippine REIT company so far. The injection of mall assets complimented by 2 office assets elevated RCR’s position to become a multi-asset REIT. In addition, the variable rent structure of our malls bodes potential upside to its current revenue,” RCR president and chief executive Jericho Go said.
PHILIPPINE labor experts called for robust skills mapping and multisector collaboration to address the persistent issue of skills mismatches. This was highlighted in a recent Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) webinar, featuring insights from PIDS senior research fellow Dr. Connie Bayudan-Dacuycuy, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) executive director Charlyn Justimbaste and University of the Philippines Prof. Emily Christi Cabegin.
Dacuycuy presented findings from a study titled “Inputs to the Philippine Labor Market Information System and TESDA’s Skills Anticipation and Prioritization of Skills Requirements
Framework”, emphasizing the need for an advanced Labor Market Information System (LMIS).
The LMIS acts as a central database that collects, analyzes, and disseminates data on labor market trends, skills demand and workforce needs.
Dacuycuy said outdated and incomplete labor market information in the Philippines is a possible root cause of skills mismatches, undermining productivity and economic competitiveness.
“A comprehensive labor market data system should provide a framework for anticipatory skills mapping, connecting current educational outputs to future labor needs and ensuring that national skill sets evolve with the economy,” she said.
A well-functioning LMIS will enable government agencies and industries to identify skills shortages, align educational programs with labor market needs, and make informed policy decisions, she said.
Dacuycuy reiterated the necessity to establish a skills data foundation, starting with a comprehensive skills taxonomy aligned with the Philippine Standard Occupational Code (PSOC).
The framework would facilitate the creation of standardized data that is structured and actionable. “A strong LMIS, supported by standardized data taxonomies and sector collaboration, is important to bridge information gaps and prepare the workforce for future job demands,” Dacuycuy said.
IN BRIEF
percent in August 2024. “This brings the average growth rate of VoPI for manufacturing from January to September 2024 to 1.0 percent. In September 2023, the VoPI for manufacturing recorded an annual increase of 9.5 percent,” the PSA said. The value of production index also slumped by 7.6 percent in September 2024 from an annual increase of 0.01 percent in August 2024.
This brought the average growth rate of VaPI from January to September 2024 to 0.03 percent. The VaPI for manufacturing recorded an annual increase of 9.2 percent in September 2023.
PH,
By Othel V. Campos
STATE-RUN Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. (PCIC) issued an initial P24.4 million in insurance payments to thousands of farmers in the Bicol region affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine’s devastating floods. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. personally handed out the indemnity checks on Wednesday during a visit by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Bicol.
“We need to equip our farmers and fisherfolk with financial resources to help them quickly get back on their feet, to recover from this disaster brought about by climate change,” said Tiu Laurel.
Tiu Laurel earlier instructed the PCIC to expedite indemnity payments to assist farmers in recovering swiftly
from the disaster caused by Kristine.
The visit intends to assess the typhoon’s impact on local communities and review ongoing government relief and recovery efforts in the hardest-hit provinces.
The DA also provided further assistance, including seeds, fertilizers, and other farm inputs for affected farmers.
The PCIC distributed checks to 2,644 farmers across Albay, Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Masbate and Sorsogon, key agricultural provinces in the Bicol Region known for producing rice, corn, vegetables, pili nuts, pineapple, cacao, coconut, livestock and poultry.
PCIC president Jovy Bernabe said the agency would remain supportive of farmers through the insurance protection and financial aid.
“I
at the 40th Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water and Energy in Massachusetts.
Pinoy PhD students win int’l award
By Julie Ann Lope
PhD students Calvin Alexander Ng, 26, and Nerissa Molejon, 37, won first place in the student poster competition at the 40th Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments, Water and Energy held from Oct. 20 to 21, 2024 in Massachusetts.
Their award-winning poster, “Quantitative Detection of Biomolecules in Environmental Matrices Using Acoustic Wave Micropillar Biosensors,” presents a novel approach for detecting pathogens in environmental samples using advanced biosensor technology.
“We are developing acoustic biosensors designed to detect pathogens in the environment and we received funding support from the Trinity Challenge and the US National Science Foundation,” said Ng.
PH Dragon Group holds donation drive in Batangas
THE Philippine Dragon Group delivered 250 bags of relief goods to Barangay Subic-Ibaba in Agoncillo, Batangas on Oct. 31, 2024 to assist families affected by Typhoon Katrina.
The relief goods included rice, canned foods, noodles, drinking water, coffee, soft drinks and biscuits.
Barangay Subic-Ibaba, with a population of over 3,000, suffered extensive damage from the typhoon.
Approximately one-third of the homes in the area were destroyed, and at least two residents are confirmed dead or missing.
All families in the barangay were affected by the storm.
Residents expressed their gratitude for the support.
“The flood submerged my house, your donation is timely. Thank you so much,” said one local.
Philippine Dragon Group’s quick response highlighted the organization’s commitment to helping those in need during times of disaster.
Julie Ann Lope
They tested the biosensor with water samples containing genes for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus, which can cause gastrointestinal illnesses and found it to be highly sensitive and able to detect the pathogens with minimal sample pretreatment requirements.
“This means that our technology can be developed to make quick and easy-touse tools for monitoring environmental and public health,” Ng said.
Ng, who focused on the electrical
design and data analytics of the biosensor, highlighted the multidisciplinary nature of the project.
“Our work involved collaboration between researchers in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Biology,” he said.
“My role is to test the biosensor with target genes and measure the frequency shift. I also did calculations to determine the number of particles per volume if sample and the magnitude of the frequency shift,” said Molejon.
Ng credits his Filipino-Chinese upbringing for shaping his work ethic and approach to education.
“My family always emphasized the value of education. My grandparents, especially my grandmother, were very supportive of my academic pursuits,” he said.
Kuang Kong Temple upholds justice, integrity
He also highlighted the role of his church community in providing encouragement and guidance whenever he felt overwhelmed.
“They always reassure me and point me toward God for strength.”
He holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from De La Salle University (DLSU) in Manila, and is pursuing a PhD in Electrical Engineering at the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
Molejon, on the other hand, completed her Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman in 2009 and earned her Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from UP Diliman and Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Spain in 2020. They advise students who want to engage in research to find their passion, seek guidance from faculty, collaborate with peers, take risks and participate in competitions.
Filipino-Chinese press clubs honor journalists, induct new officers
By Michael Wong Ho
THE Philippine Chinese Press Club (PCPC) and the Filipino-Chinese Journalists Amity Club held their induction ceremonies at the Dalian Hotel in Binondo, Manila on Oct. 23, 2024.
PCPC honorary president Huang Xue Min, newly-elected president Yao Hui Jian and Filipino Chinese Journalists Amity Club founder Hong Jin Ming, FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro, Philippine-Chinese Charitable Association president Lu Zu
Yin and Chinese Filipino Business Club president Huang Shu Wei were present during the event.
Also in attendance were National Press Club president Leonel Abasola and mayoral and vice-mayoral candidates Raymond Bagatsing and Pablo Ocampo.
Pedro lauded the dedication of Filipino-Chinese journalists and media workers and highlighted their year-round commitment in providing essential news and updates to the community.
Pedro encouraged journalists to
embrace their role as spokespersons for the Filipino-Chinese community, advocating for government platforms and policies while promoting the friendship between the Philippines and China.
The new leaders aim to strengthen the voice of Filipino-Chinese journalists in both local and international spheres.
The ceremonies celebrated the accomplishments of the media and highlighted the ongoing importance of collaboration and communication within the community.
Tzu Chi Eye Center team provides medical assistance to Rizal elderly
Navarro, the team conducted comprehensive eye exams for 124 elderly residents, including those who were ambulatory and confined to wheelchairs or bedridden.
Deputy medical director Dr. Susan Irene Lapid-Lim and volunteer Dr. Catherine Macaraig visited the bedridden residents in their quarters to perform consultations.
During the outreach, the medical team identified 94 residents in need of cataract and pterygium surgeries.
The patients will be referred to Tzu Chi Eye Center in Manila for surgery, with transportation and presurgery requirements coordinated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office IV-A, which manages the facility.
In addition to eye conditions, the doctors also observed psychological challenges among some residents, including behavioral outbursts during consultations.
Nurse Jocelyn Reyes, who oversees the care of 275 residents at the Haven for the Elderly,
expressed gratitude for the support from Tzu Chi.
“We have been seeking help for the past two years, and Tzu Chi’s assistance is invaluable,” she said.
“If our residents regain their eyesight, it will help prevent falls and allow them to continue reading
LOCATED along Kipuja Street in Santa Cruz, Manila, Kuang Kong (Guan Gong) Temple has been a vibrant site of worship since it was established in 1882, with its rich tradition of incense offerings flourishing for over 140 years. Guan Gong, a legendary general from the Shu state during the Romance of the Three Kingdoms period (about 1,800 years ago), is revered for his loyalty, bravery, benevolence and righteousness. He is often referred to as the “Military God of Wealth,” a title that reflects the deep respect he commands among his followers.
Early Chinese immigrants brought their beliefs and customs to the Philippines, establishing Guan Gong Associations, also known as Guan Di (Lord Guan) Associations.
These groups embody the “Put Justice First Principle,” emphasizing personal integrity and moral commitment in business dealings.
For many, the values embodied by Guan Gong serve as a cultural symbol that transcends legal frameworks. Today, Guan Gong’s teachings continue to foster friendship and understanding between China and the Philippines. Increasingly, Filipinos regard Guan Gong as the “Patron Saint of Justice,” praying to him for fairness and integrity in their lives.
This faith has become a significant link for trans-cultural exchange, bridging communities and enriching the shared cultural landscape. Michael Wong Ho
Taiwan provides $150,000 aid to typhoon victims
TAIWAN donated US$150,000 to the Philippines in response to the devastating impact of severe tropical storm Kristine which recently struck the country.
Ambassador Wallace Chow, Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) to the Philippines, handed the donation during a ceremony held at the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) on October 31, 2024. Chow expressed his deepest condolences and emphasized the importance of unity during difficult times.
“In times of hardship, solidarity and compassion bind us together, and Taiwan stands with our friends in the Philippines,” he said.
“Disasters like this remind us all of our shared humanity and the importance of standing together in times of trial. Taiwan is committed to being a true friend and reliable partner to the Philippines, ready to extend a helping hand whenever needed,” he said.
MECO Chairperson Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil accepted the cash donation.
“The assistance that Taiwan has so far provided will definitely boost the determination of our people to rebuild their lives and put them back on the road to recovery,” she said.
“This act of kindness reflects the generosity of the Taiwanese people, who are extending their support even while dealing with their own challenges,” Garafil said.
Michael Wong Ho
and learning, which can also prevent dementia,” she said.
The Haven for the Elderly is a government-run care facility for abandoned and homeless elderly individuals. Julie Ann Lope
THE Tzu Chi Eye Center’s medical team, consisting of 65 members provided, medical assistance to residents of Haven for the Elderly in Tanay, Rizal on
Oct. 27, 2024. Led by Tzu Chi Medical Foundation president Dr. Antonio Say and Tzu Chi Eye Center medical director Dr. Bernardita
PhD student Calvin Alexander Ng receives a cash prize
FFCCCII president Dr. Cecilio Pedro leads the induction of the new officers of the Philippine Chinese Press Club (PCPC) and the Filipino-Chinese Journalists Amity Club.
Ambassador Wallace Chow, Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) to the Philippines, hands the donation during a ceremony at the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) on Oct. 31, 2024.
Kuang Kong (Guan Gong) Temple
The Tzu Chi Eye Center team conducts comprehensive eye exams for 124 residents at Haven for the Elderly in Tanay, Rizal.
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
DISNEY+ will debut Love Your Enemy, a new romantic comedy series following high school sweethearts who reconnect 18 years after a bitter breakup.
The series centers on Seok Jiwon and Yoon Jiwon, born on the same day with the same name to rival families. The two defied family tensions, falling in love one summer during high school. Their romance ended abruptly due to a misunderstanding, leaving their memories clouded by resentment. Now, nearly two decades later, they cross paths as colleagues — Seok as the President of Dokmok High School and Yoon as the school’s P.E. teacher. Initially clashing and undermining each other, they slowly rediscover feelings that go beyond animosity.
Love Your Enemy stars Ju Jihoon (Light Shop, Blood Free) as Seok Jiwon and Jung Yumi (Discovery of Love, Train to Busan) as Yoon Jiwon. The series is penned by Lim Yejin (The Tale of Nokdu) and directed by Park Joonhwa (What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim), with production by Studio Dragon.
Disney+ has ramped up its APAC content slate, releasing over 12 Korean titles this year alone. Successful releases include Moving, Big Bet, and The Worst of Evil, with A Shop for Killers currently leading viewership in the Asia Pacific region. Anticipated upcoming releases include Unmasked Gangnam B-Side, and Light Shop, with new dramas planned for 2025 such as Tempest Low Life, and Nine Puzzles Love Your Enemy will release new episodes every Saturday and Sunday from Nov. 23 through Dec. 29 on Disney+.
ISTILL recall the ’90s vividly, when April Boy Regino was a staple on noontime variety shows. While not everyone was drawn to his music, there was no denying his songs touched millions.
Some critics may have dismissed his music as tacky or too much of a novelty, but April Boy had a way of speaking to people’s hearts. His lyrics were simple yet resonated on many levels. They offered something refreshingly unpretentious in a time when relatable tunes mattered most.
Songs like “Paano ang Puso Ko,” “Umiiyak ang Puso Ko’t Sumisigaw,” and “Di Ko Kayang Tanggapin,” as well as the upbeat “Ye Ye Vonnel,” might sound “baduy” to some, but they were the soundtrack of a generation.
Kids of the ’90s would hum his tunes, and almost everyone tried his signature “X” pose with arms crossed in the air, particularly during the chorus of “Hindi Ko Kayang Tanggapin.”
It wasn’t a shock that he managed to sell over 300,000 copies of his albums between 1995 and 2000—a considerable feat at the time.
Though he’s perhaps less well-known among today’s younger music fans, some believe that April Boy’s music and the story behind his songs deserve another look. The biopic IDOL (The April Boy Regino Story) offers exactly that. It provides audiences with a glimpse into his life and legacy.
At a special screening, a viewer asked, “Who’s the target audience for IDOL?” noting that today’s popular artists include SB19, BINI, and Arthur Nery. April Boy, after all, is from a different era.
Premiere WaterPlus Productions’ Executive Producer Marynette Gamboa had a ready answer: “We’ve always had in mind the fans of Idol April Boy Regino—or
SHOWBIZ
The icon who defined ’90s Pinoy novelty pop
Young talents face off in first battle round of ‘The Voice Kids’
THE first Battle Round of The Voice Kids kicked off on Sunday, Nov. 3, with young singers delivering impressive performances in a heated competition to advance to the next round.
The Battle Round follows an intense round of blind auditions, where aspiring young artists showcase their talents. Now, these singers face
off in three-way battles, putting their skills to the test in hopes of moving closer to victory. A twist introduced this season, the “Backstage Steal,” adds to the excitement. After each three-way match, the winning contestant advances, but other coaches can choose to “steal” one of the contestants who didn’t make it through, giving them a second
whoever remains of them.”
Gamboa acknowledged that these loyal fans might not be as familiar with today’s music trends but said they would recognize April Boy’s songs and story.
Gamboa also noted that April Boy’s fans have grown older and are more likely to buy cinema tickets now. But she’s hopeful the film might pique younger audiences’ curiosity. Just as old hits like “Kiss Me, Kiss Me” by Efren Montes and “Maybe This Time” by Michael Murphy found a new life through modern remakes, April Boy’s gold and platinum hits might resonate again with audiences of all ages.
“There’s something timeless about April Boy’s kindness and loyalty to his family,” Gamboa added. “Love and family never go out of style. The movie offers a chance to remember an era of Pinoy music defined by lyrics that came straight from the heart.”
Fans who followed April Boy’s career know the struggles he faced in his later years. He dealt with prostate cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, which eventually led to blindness. His health challenges nearly silenced him, and he was away from the spotlight for years. Yet he endured, leaning on his faith and family through it all. IDOL sheds light on how he managed these personal battles and, against the odds, returned to music.
IDOL (The April Boy Regino Story), written and directed by Efren Reyes, Jr., opens in cinemas across the Philippines on Nov. 27. Produced by Premiere WaterPlus Productions with Gamboa as Executive Producer, the film stars showbiz newbie John Arcenas as April Boy Regino and Kate Yalung as his wife, Madelyn De Leon-Regino
chance in the competition. In the opening battle, Coach Billy Crawford’s Team Bilib, featuring Rexylyn Hi Caiji, EunHae Francisco, and Clet Feigalan, delivered a stirring rendition of “Patuloy Ang Pangarap.” Crawford selected Rexylyn to continue on his team.
’s
Julie Anne San Jose
team, known as the JuleSquad, saw Shawn Agustin, Ava Glarino, and Wincess Yana tackle “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” Shawn secured his spot, while Coach Billy exercised his Backstage Steal to bring Wincess to Team Bilib. On Coach Stell’s team, contestants Brianna Louise Sison, Jan Hebron Ecal, and Jireh
Tzidkenu
Rexylyn Hi Caiji won the battle against fellow Team Bilib members Eun-Hae Francisco and Clet Feigalan
Billy used his Backstage Steal to bring JuleSquad’s Wincess Yana to Team Bilib
Shamchienel Santos outshined fellow Tropa ni Pablo members and moves on to the next round
Jan Hebron Ecal advances to the next round as part of Coach Stell’s team Stellbound Shawn Agustin from coach Julie Anne San Jose’s JuleSquad makes his way to the next round
John Arcenas (right) and Kate Yalung
as
Regino and his wife Madelyn De Leon-Regino
‘IDOL (The April Boy Regino Story)’ stars Kate Yalung (left) and John Arcenas during the film’s special screening
From left: John Arcenas, director Efren Reyes, Jr., and Kate Yalung
Showbiz newbie John Arcenas (left) portrays April Boy in ‘IDOL (The April Boy Regino Story)’
Get rewarded for living well
AT SOME point in life, I believe most people start to become more conscious of their overall health and wellness. While our well-being should always be a priority, it’s no surprise that when one approaches middle age, one starts paying more attention to this area of our lives.
Research shows that in their 30s and 40s, people often experience natural changes like a slower metabolism and reduced muscle mass, which can lead them to adopt healthier lifestyles. In response to these shifts, UnionBank and Mercury Drug have introduced a credit card designed to reward Filipinos for healthfocused spending.
Tailored for the modern consumer, the UnionBank Mercury Card offers exclusive perks and unmatched rewards for those who aim to live a balanced and healthy life. The two companies recently unveiled the new UnionBank Mercury Card at a grand event at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Bonifacio Global City celebrating health, wellness, and innovation.
Blending wellness experiences with culinary excellence, the gathering featured fitness classes by Saddle Row and rejuvenating treatments courtesy of the Grand Hyatt Wellness Team, showcasing the essence of the UnionBank Mercury Card: living well can be incredibly rewarding.
The event was hosted by fitness enthusiast Marc Nelson and also featured the debut of the ON runway show—the first-ever fashion show for the Swiss-engineered performance brand known for its running shoes and apparel that seamlessly combine highperformance technology with comfort and style. ON’s collection, distributed in the Philippines by Dan’s Group of Companies, perfectly encapsulated the evening’s message: health and wellness are stylish, rewarding, and accessible.
To cap off the evening, guests were treated to a thoughtfully curated dinner by Chef Mark Hagan, Executive Chef of the Grand Hyatt Manila. Known for his culinary creativity, Chef Hagan’s menu balanced nourishment and indulgence, a perfect reminder that healthy living doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or enjoyment.
At the heart of the UnionBank Mercury Card is its unparalleled 5X reward points on all health and wellness-related purchases. Whether you’re stocking up on vitamins and supplements, buying pharmacy essentials, signing up for gym memberships, or treating
yourself to a spa day, the card gives you more value
every peso spent on health and wellness.
Indeed, it’s a financial tool designed to support and encourage healthier living while ensuring you reap the benefits along the way.
In addition to the 5X rewards points, cardholders also enjoy exclusive perks, including free annual physical exams, ambulance services, and the assurance of no annual fees for life. These benefits make the UnionBank Mercury Card a standout option for anyone who values both their health and financial well-being.
The card’s sleek and modern design, featuring the iconic “Mercury Man,” reflects a partnership deeply committed to improving the health and lives of Filipinos. Vivian Azcona, President of Mercury Drug, spoke about the company’s long-standing commitment to promoting the health and well-being of Filipinos.
“This card is more than just a financial product; it’s a testament to our shared vision of making health and wellness more attainable
IN COMMEMORATION of the Deaf Awareness Week, Filipino Deaf youth will recount the pivotal stories that have shaped the community during the 30th Deaf Festival.
Themed 30 Years, Countless Stories, this year’s iteration aims to move forward with its mission to provide platforms for the Deaf to promote mindfulness and appreciation of their unique identity, share stories of resilience and success, and enrich their knowledge and creativity. The celebration was established in November 1995 by the Deaf students from the School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB).
Among the several activities include an impressive roster of inspiring industry experts and academicians, to facilitate various lectures and dialogues, workshops
and discussions. These will empower Deaf individuals to navigate challenges related to education, career, and language. The sessions equip them with the proficiencies necessary to succeed in their chosen paths. Likewise slated is a seminar that introduces attendees to Filipino Sign Language (FSL) literature and encourages them to write stories and poems in FSL. A series of competitions is set to be an avenue for the students to showcase their talent. Tilts may be in preparing Frappuccino and pastries, upcycling discarded fabrics into modish fashion pieces, or producing short advocacy films on Deaf experiences.
Photography, painting, and literary contests likewise encourage participants to channel their ingenuity and
for everyone. Together with UnionBank, we are empowering Filipinos to live healthier, more rewarding lives,” said Azcona. This sentiment was echoed by Manoj Varma, Consumer Banking Head of UnionBank of the Philippines, who highlighted the card’s role in meeting the growing demand for health-focused financial tools. “
The UnionBank Mercury Card is designed to reward individuals for making the right choices when it comes to their health. With 5X rewards points and a suite of health benefits, this card is the perfect partner for anyone looking to invest in their well-being,” Varma said.
To apply for the UnionBank Mercury Card and start earning 5X rewards on your health and wellness purchases, visit this link: https://unionbankph.com/r/5xhnw.
You may reach the author at joba.botana@gmail.com.
Stories of strength and success at 30th Deaf Festival
eye for the arts. A selection of promising entries is to be displayed alongside the visual exhibition of the rich history of the Deaf Festival, SDEAS, and the various milestones of the Benildean Deaf community.
The Deaf Festival Games feature tournaments of Basketball, Volleyball and Patintero, to Human Chess Challenge, Quiz Bee, Solve the Puzzle, and Guess the Word.
The winners of the respective events are set to be recognized during the Awards and Gala Night. This also provides an opportunity for the attendees to don their best garbs or cosplay as their favorite anime, television, or movie characters.
The festival concludes with a fundraising cultural show, a theatrical adaptation of the iconic fairytale Ibong Adarna by Filipino poet and litterateur Francisco Balagtas. It is spearheaded by Deaf choreographer, director, and trainer Myra Medrana and features Silent Steps, the official Deaf performing arts group of Benilde SDEAS. Voice interpreters are available for the audience. The 30th Deaf Festival opens on Nov. 11 and runs until Nov. 16 at the Benilde Taft Campus. For more information, visit facebook.com/ SDEASDeafFestival and facebook.com/ benildesdeas.
The Deaf Festival aims to provide platforms, promote mindfulness and appreciation, share stories of resilience and success, and enrich the knowledge and creativity of the Deaf community
Attendees had the chance to stretch their limbs and joints during a 45-minutes yoga session
Guests took part in a 45-minutes cardio dance party on wheels
A relaxing head and back massage was one of the activities for the attendees
The UnionBank Mercury Card rewards points to cardholders for their health and wellness-related purchases along with exclusive perks like free annual physical exams and ambulance services
From left: Consumer Banking Head of UnionBank Manoj Varma, President of Mercury Drug Varma Vivian Que Azcona, Mukul Sukhani, and Steve Azcona
Job Well Done
Joba Botana
for
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
C4 LIFE
By Abigail Adriatico
FOR many people, living a healthy life entails doing things such as switching to a better diet or starting a rigorous exercise routine. However, this often leads to completely depriving themselves of certain comfort foods whenever they crave them.
Aiming to promote a more balanced lifestyle that includes healthy habits while also allowing for the occasional sweet treat, J.CO Donuts and Coffee has introduced the very first J.CO Run in the Philippines. First launched in Indonesia, the J.CO Run emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between an active lifestyle and enjoying sweet treats without feeling guilty.
During the fun run’s media launch on Oct. 22, J.CO welcomed celebrity couple Juancho Triviño and Joyce PringTriviño, along with renowned coach Rio Dela Cruz, who all spoke about how they strive to maintain a balanced lifestyle. As fitness enthusiasts, both Juancho and Joyce expressed their commitment to maintaining a healthy diet alongside consistent physical exercise through mindful eating.
Promoting the sweetness of a balanced lifestyle
“I’m a mom of two children, and I cook most of our meals at home. I really have to be mindful about planning our meals for the week and I make sure that they have the right balance. But at the same time, Juancho and I have such a sweet tooth,” admitted Joyce.
“We love sweets; that’s why we don’t completely eliminate them
from our diet. You can’t really keep on constricting yourself because eventually, you’ll end up looking for it. So for us, it’s really just about finding the right portions and being mindful,” she added.
Apart from food intake, another integral role in having a balanced lifestyle is physical exercise like running long distances, which Dela Cruz pointed out can be a bit challenging for someone just starting out.
“It is very important to have a specific goal. You need to have a goal and an objective and, of course, dedication. If you don’t have dedication, you won’t achieve your goal. Self-discipline is really important,” the coach told Manila Standard Life
To keep one motivated about running, Dela Cruz suggested joining running clubs because running alongside others can help with accountability and improvement through better running form and structured programs. He also mentioned
that fun runs can serve as a platform to test personal improvement.
The J.CO Run 2024 will feature three different distances: 3K, 5K, and 12K, with the last one commemorating J.CO’s 12th anniversary. Registered runners will receive a race kit that includes a J.CO running shirt, a race bib number, a J.CO tote bag, donuts, iced lemon tea, and exclusive finisher medals. During the race, there will be surprises along the route, dedicated photo spots at the activity village, and sponsor loot bags for racers.
Participants who finish the race will also be rewarded with a freshly brewed cup of coffee and a J.CO donut they can purchase at a designated food truck for the event. All runners will also be entitled to one free drink at the J.CO MOA branch from Nov. 10 until Dec. 31 by presenting their race bib.
“This run is more than just a race. It’s about fostering community spirit, uniting families and friends, and reminding everyone to savor the sweetness of life both on and off the track,” said John Yeung, Managing Director of J.CO Donuts and Coffee.
The J.CO Run 2024 will take place at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Ground on Nov. 10.
THE late televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker famously joked, “I always say shopping is cheaper than a psychiatrist.” It’s easy to laugh, but there’s truth—and science—behind it. Who hasn’t felt a lift in their mood after picking up a new pair of shoes or the latest gadget, not out of necessity, but just to brighten the day?
“When you’re feeling low, shopping—from looking at nice things to spotting an item that you like, holding it, trying it, and paying for it—releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter and ‘feel-good’ hormone associated with pleasurable experiences like eating, sex, and, yes, shopping,” explains Jon Edward B. Jurilla, MD from the Section of Psychiatry of top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).
“Retail therapy can be a healthy way to cope with stress as it can help improve your mood when things aren’t going your way. It can also be a form of self-motivation, a reward system to celebrate personal wins,” Dr. Jurilla adds. While retail therapy’s “high” lasts beyond the act of purchasing an item, it’s only temporary. Trouble begins once shopping becomes an insatiable salve to issues you don’t want to face. “The excitement and empowering feeling of buying something ‘just because’ can be addictive,” warns Dr. Jurilla. “This can potentially lead to compulsive shopping disorder, especially if you’re turning to shopping to escape stress and low self-confidence.” Is your shopping retail therapy— or a compulsive disorder? The difference lies in your behavior. “Occasional shopping sprees are normal and acceptable. But if you find yourself accumulating things you never get to use, hiding your purchases, and experiencing financial and relationship strains because of your spending, then it’s likely that you’re a compulsive shopper,” says Dr. Jurilla.
Is retail therapy enough, or do you need actual therapy? something especially
“Beyond losing control over your spending habits, compulsive shopping disorder can leave you feeling guilty or remorseful about your purchases.”
With more reasons to shop and add to cart this 11.11 and other yearend sale events, MakatiMed offers tips to help compulsive shoppers mark themselves “safe” from all the overspending.
Stick to a budget and a list. If you have the urge to shop, create a clear limit for impulse purchases.
“Opt for something practical and useful, like groceries or food, instead of items that may lead to buyer’s remorse,” reminds Dr. Jurilla. “If you haven’t cleared credit card balances or debts from buy now, pay later schemes, prioritize those payments and other essentials. Only allot whatever’s left for extra purchases and pay in cash.” Just look. Window shopping, shares Dr. Jurilla, can be just as satisfying an activity as shopping—and it won’t cost you a centavo. “Take time to walk around a store. Admire a bag or piece of jewelry or even try on a pair of jeans. Bring a friend to make the activity more fun. You
can exchange shopping tips and help keep you in check.”
Learn to wait. Love an item from your window shopping? Think about it for at least two days, says Dr. Jurilla. “Sometimes, distancing yourself from the object of your desire gives you time to carefully consider if it’s truly a necessary purchase. This can help you develop mindfulness and manage your shopping urges more effectively.”
Undergo therapy—for real. Compulsive shopping disorder can be
The running shirts for those who will join the event come in various colors
From left: Coach Rio Dela Cruz, celebrity couple Juancho Triviño and Joyce Pring-Triviño, and J.Co Assistant Marketing Manager Jericho Eva
Coach Rio Dela Cruz invite the media to engage in some warm ups before the start of the program
Coach Rio Dela Cruz, Juancho Triviño, Joyce Pring-Triviño, and Jericho Eva pose with the medals that will be given to those who will finish the race