Manila Standard - 2024 November 14 - Thursday

PNP resurrecting probe into PCSO official's slay

Rody challenges ICC: Set probe before I die

Palace: Up to Rody to submit self, arrest likely thru Interpol

By Rachelle Tonelada

THE government has readied P1.48 billion worth of aid for communities that may be hit hard by typhoon ‘Julian’ which PAGASA says could turn into a supertyphoon.

THE Department of Migrant Workers and the Philippine embassy in Washington are ramping up support for an estimated 370,000 undocumented Filipino immigrants (commonly known as TNTs) who may face mass deportation from the United States as Presidentelect Donald Trump prepares for his White House return.

As of 5:00 PM on Sunday,

By

By Rio N. Araja

FTORMER President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday challenged the International Criminal Court to immediately begin its investigation into his alleged crimes against humanity over the thousands killed during his administration’s deadly war on drugs.

HE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.

On Sunday, PNP Chief Police

“Come here and start the investigation tomorrow,” Duterte said as he faced the House Quad Committee investigating the extrajudicial killings during his administration.

“I’m asking the ICC to hurry up. This issue has been left hanging for so many years. I might die first and they won't be able to investigate me,” he said.

Official records put the fatalities during Duterte’s war on drugs at 6,000, but

ICC prosecutors estimate the death toll at between 12,000 and 30,000.

Malacañang said it is up to Duterte should he desire to submit himself to the jurisdiction of the ICC.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, however, admitted the Philippines will likely implement an arrest order against the former president if the ICC courses it through Interpol.

"The DMW is prepared to assist our OFWs, whether they are documented or undocumented OFWs. Under the directives of our President, a whole-of-government team is here to provide support to possible deportees," Migrant Workers

Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said.

“The Philippine Embassy has scheduled a planning session with the consulates in the first week of December to discuss how we can assist Filipinos,” added Philippine Ambassador to the US Babe Romualdez.

General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma. Mendoza narrated before congressmen how Garma allegedly facilitated the PCSO official’s roadside assassination on July 30, 2020 by providing the necessary information about his schedule, details about his vehicle and the funding necessary to carry it out.

incumbent National Police Com missioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder.

general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption with in the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City.

Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in

legal counsel of Chinese businessman Tony Yang sought to disparage lawmakers’ conclusions about his client’s supposedly sketchy past and his alleged ties with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even organized crime.

adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

By Darwin Amojelar TRANSPORTATION

Bautista denied an online news report claiming that Malacañang was angry with the increase in airport fees without the approval of the Cabinet members.

By Rex Espiritu and Maricel Cruz

“The Bilyonaryo article is malicious and unfounded,” Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the said story. “Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added. Bilyonaryo reported online that “Bautista and his long-time protege in Philippine Airlines, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Bobby Lim, are at the center of the storm after it was

Lawyer Raymond Fortun questioned the House Quad Committee’s impartiality and its ability to pin Chinese national Yang down for ay wrongdoing in a real criminal court.

by the DSWD, including P123 million which can be allotted as Quick Response Fund (QRF) in the central office of the DSWD.

In Batanes, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) advised residents to secure their roofs and install window shutters as Typhoon Julian is expected to make landfall

By Rex Espiritu

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry

Fortun, a lawyer who often finds himself at the center high-profile cases, apparently sought to mock congressmen, calling their probe “unacceptable.”

However, House members argued they did not come by their suspicions about Yang recklessly.

By Rex Espiritu

of illegal drugs and illegal activities associated with POGOs,” Suarez said in a mixture of Filipino and English.

The solons explained how the matrix details Yang’s connections to other individuals involved in illicit activities, including the operations of illegal POGOs.

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) filed its 189th diplomatic protest against China in less than two years, this time after Beijing redefined its territorial boundaries to encompass Scarborough Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Beijing’s move came less than a week after President Marcos enacted two laws intended to clearly define the Philippines’ maritime borders.

The National Maritime Council (NMC) said China’s redefined baseline violated the long-established sovereignty of the Philippines and attempts to solidify Beijing's illegal annexation of the shoal.

“I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic

On Friday, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga and Deputy Speaker David Suarez of Quezon presented a matrix showing Yang’s first appearance and his subsequent activities at the Quad Comm hearing.

Among the companies implicated are Brickhartz Technology Inc. and Xionwei Technology Co. Ltd., which are being linked to alleged kidnapping.

US Department of Defense Chief Lloyd Austin will visit the Philippines this week to enhance security cooperation.

“We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

Philippine Navy debunked ment by China that it conducted military exercises off Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). China reportedly made the announcement coinciding with the fourth Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity between the Philippines, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the regional waters over the weekend. Philippine Navy Spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vin -

mayors were ordered to evacuate residents in vulnerable areas, by force if necessary.

cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Beijing’s statement was meant only for its internal audience.

By Joel Zurbano, Rachelle Tonelada, and Maricel Cruz

“Our troops did not observe any exercise, we have to understand that sometimes, China is doing this for their internal audience, right? For them not to look weak and embarrassed,” Trinidad said.

The two firms supposedly have connections with the Baofu Compound in Bamban, Tarlac, which, in turn, can be directly traced to disgraced ex-mayor Alice Guo.

During Friday’s Quad Comm hearing, lawmakers cited Tony Yang in contempt for “lying” to about his businesses and business partners.

According to the US Defense Department, this trip is part of his twelfth official visit to regional allies. Austin will first travel to Australia for multilateral meetings and engagements with US Marines before flying to Manila.

"Secretary Austin will first travel to Darwin, Australia for multilateral meetings with regional allies and engagements with U.S. Marines from the Marine Rotational ForceDarwin. From there, Secretary Austin will make his fourth visit to the Philippines, where he will advance security

and Fiji. In Australia, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. meanwhile said he does not

Two Chinese warships were monitored at a distance ranging from eight to 14 nautical miles. One of these went up to 1,000 yards at the MMCA site but eventually went away. “It was not threatening, just normal,” accord -

THE Senate yesterday approved without questions the proposed P733-million budget proposal of the Office of the Vice President's (OVP) proposed P733-million budget. The Senate Finance Committee adopted the House of Representatives' decision to reduce the OVP budget from the original P2 billion proposed in the National Expenditure Program submitted by the Executive Department to Congress. Unlike the hearings conducted in

Maricel V. Cruz, Charles Dantes, Pot Chavez, Rachelle Tonelada and Ralph Harvey Rirao

PAGASA

A WEB OF CRIME? House leaders Aurelio Gonzales and David Suarez presented this matrix during the last QUAD Comm hearing which shows the operations of a criminal syndicate allegedly led by fugitive Michael Yang, then economic adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte, that controlled the illegal activities of the POGOs and was involved in the drug trade and extrajudicial killings.

Hans Sy, Chairman of the

TROUBLE AT THE HOUSE. Former President Rodrigo Duterte is being restrained by his lawyer, Atty. Martin Delgra (standing at his left), from throwing a microphone (inset) at former Sen. Antonio Trillanes, seated fifth from left, after a heated exchange during the Quad Comm hearing at the House of Representatives yesterday. Duterte earlier had a verbal joust with former Sen. Leila de Lima and was triggered enough to almost throw a punch at her. Ver Noveno

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"Under (emergency protocols), all the mayors must implement the forced evacuation, especially for susceptible areas," he told AFP by telephone, adding as many as 40,000 in the province lived in hazard-prone areas.

The forced evacuations come just as the Philippines signed the Host Country Agreement (HCA) with the Board of the Loss and Damage Fund on Tuesday at the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.

The landmark agreement positions the Philippines to host the Fund’s operations, aimed at supporting vulnerable communities worldwide against the destructive effects of climate change.

In her speech, Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga said the Philippines has a deep and personal stake in ensuring that the funds for responding to loss and damage become accessible to those who need them the most, underscoring the Philippines’ unique experience as an archipelago frequently impacted by natural disasters.

“The Philippines is experiencing a historically unprecedented series of extreme weather events. In the past three weeks, we have been struck by four successive tropical cyclones. A fifth has just made a landfall, and a sixth is on the way,” she said.

“The Philippines may be a test case for the Fund in responding to this unique cumulative loss of lives and damage to critical infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, roads and water and power systems, Loyzaga, who heads the Philippine delegation to COP29, pointed out.

Meanwhile, the United Nations (UN) said that the successive storms have taken a toll on the resources of both the Philippine Government and local households.

About 210,000 of those most affected by recent flooding need support for "critical lifesaving and protection efforts over the next three months", the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a statement Tuesday.

"Typhoons are overlapping. As soon as communities attempt to recover from the shock, the next tropical storm is already hitting them again," UN Philippines Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez said.

"In this context, the response capacity gets exhausted and budgets depleted."

A sixth storm, Tropical Storm Manyi, currently near Guam, is expected to hit the Philippines as early as next weekend.

Gonzalez urged "resource partners to support the UN effort and fill "critical funding gaps".

He added that the initiative "will help us mobilize the capacities and resources of the humanitarian community to better support government institutions at national, regional, and local levels. "

As this developed, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that Typhoons Nika (international name Toraji) and Ofel (Usagi) have affected approximately 52,551 families across five regions.

These families, totaling 195,532 individuals, live in 850 barangays in the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Bicol, and Cordillera regions. With AFP

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Donald Trump to demand that the Philippines pay more for military support and protection because both Manila and Washington face the shared threat of Beijing.

Teodoro made the statement at a press conference with Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles following the Philippines-Australia Defense Ministers’ Meeting in Canberra on Tuesday.

“I really don’t expect some sort of statement from Mr. Trump. Hopefully not,” Teodoro, quoted by ABS-CBN News, said. “I really don’t have any preconditions or any assumptions as to what will be the outcome of this administration, except on what we are working on, on institutional ties this time.”

“That is undoubtedly the overreach and the aggressive and illegal activities of China.”

Teodoro said he believes the two countries’ ties will remain unchanged under the Trump administration.

“Then again, our ties go back several years, and there may be some nuances in our relationship, but the general policy remains the same, and we are very thankful for the bipartisan support that the Philippines has received from the US Congress,” he said.

Comelec says social media rules won’t cover personal accounts

By Vito Barcelo

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) will amend its regulations on the use of social media to exempt from registration privately owned accounts that endorse political candidates for next year’s midterm elections.

Poll chairman George Garcia said the en banc will decide this week the removal of a provision regulating the social media accounts of private individuals as part of the guidelines on digital election campaigns.

“The removal of the provision will

Rody...

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“If the ICC refers the process to the Interpol, which may then transmit a red notice to the Philippine authorities, the government will feel obliged to consider the red notice as a request to be honored, in which case the domestic law enforcement agencies shall be bound to accord full cooperation to the Interpol pursuant to established protocols,” Bersamin said.

“If the former President desires to surrender himself to the jurisdiction of the ICC, the government will neither object to it nor move to block the fulfillment of his desire,” the Palace official added.

The Department of Justice explained that despite the country’s withdrawal from the Rome Statute of the ICC, it remains a member-state of Interpol.

The DOJ said it remains committed to uphold sovereign obligations with other countries with respect to adherence to the principles of international comity.

Duterte told lawmakers he is ready to accept any verdict if he is found guilty.

“If I am found guilty, I will go to prison and rot there for all time,” he said.

Duterte earlier admitted to instructing police to provoke criminals into

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The 78-year-old Trump, whose campaign promises included implementing the “largest deportation program in American history,” earlier announced his border czar choice – Tom Homan.

Trump on social media said Homan, a former acting director of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, would be responsible for “all deportation of illegal aliens back to their country of origin.”

Border critic and South Dakota

Governor Kristi Noem will reportedly be Trump’s next homeland security secretary.

Romualdez on Thursday said the Philippine embassy is waiting for the

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the House of Representatives, Vice President Sara Duterte personally attended the budget deliberations for her office. After the approval, the Vice President also posed for a photo with the senators.

Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go pointed out that the OVP's budget cut would affect various programs, including *Magnegosyo Ta ‘Day*, as well as medical, educational, and burial assistance programs, and disaster response efforts.

Senator Ronald Dela Rosa moved to adopt the budget but said he would introduce amendments at the proper time.

Meanwhile, House leaders criticized anew Vice President Sara Duterte’s repeated dismissal of the House investigation into her alleged mismanagement of hundreds of millions in government funds, which she has labeled as “politically motivated.”

They argued that Duterte’s insistence that “no wrongdoing has been proven” appears to be a diversionary tactic to sidestep the core issue of transparency and accountability, especially as the documents under scrutiny are based on official records from the Commission on Audit (COA).

“This is not about politics. This is about accountability and transparency,” said Manila Rep. Joel Chua,

uphold the freedom of speech and expression of private citizens to protect citizens’ rights,” he said.

Earlier, the poll body said that candidates and parties should register official campaign accounts to prevent misrepresentation and misinformation,

resisting arrest, effectively endorsing a "shoot-to-kill" approach.

When asked about statements he made in 2016 encouraging criminals to fight back, Duterte told the Quad Comm: “That could be justified if they (suspects) fought back.”

“As for the manufacturers, I really ordered to kill them – as long as you catch them in the factory that cooks shabu…That was my order, and I assume full responsibility,” he added.

Vice President Sara Duterte joined her father at the House of Representatives yesterday, but derided the Quad Comm hearing as “clear political persecution.”

“Of course, I do not expect fairness,” she said, adding that she respects her father’s “personal decision” to face lawmakers investigating the drug warrelated EJKs.

“The ICC has been pursuing him over the alleged EJKs during his administration. Why? Well, one would think perhaps if you are being pursued, there is something they want you to lose,” the Vice President said.

“Do I worry about the former president? I don’t think he will go here is he thinks he is weak, health-wise. So, he will be okay,” she added.

The former president on Wednesday confirmed a reward system existed for police officers involved in his bloody war on drugs.

“Reward? Correct. Very correct.

details of the mass deportation policy.

“As soon as details are available, it will be passed on to our immigration lawyers. They will go through it and assess who are qualified to take the legal path and stay in the US. But if there is no legal pathway for you to stay, it is better to depart because if you are deported, you can never come back. Once you are deported, you are blacklisted,” Romualdez said.

Cacadac said in collaboration with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and the Department of Foreign Affairs, financial, medical, and legal assistance will be given to affected Filipinos.

He said support mechanisms will facilitate "wide-ranging reintegration support to the possible deportees."

"We will continuously coordinate with the DFA and with the US authori-

chair of the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, which is investigating the alleged misuse of public funds by Vice President Duterte, particularly the confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs) amounting to P500 million in the Office of the Vice President and P112.5 million in the Department of Education (DepEd) when Duterte was head of the agency.

Santa Rosa City Rep. Dan Fernandez, chair of the Committee on Public Order and Safety, dismissed Duterte’s claims of political motivation as a familiar and convenient excuse to avoid scrutiny.

Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun also countered Duterte’s claims that the records under review were “fake,” noting that the documents came directly from the COA.

Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, chair of the committee on dangerous drugs, clarified that the objective of the inquiry is not to declare guilt but to pursue accountability.

“We’re not here to pass judgment. But when public funds are involved, it is our duty to investigate and ensure accountability,” Barbers said, urging Duterte’s office to cooperate fully in the spirit of transparency.

Duterte earlier voiced strong criticism of recent House hearings, calling them a form of “political persecution.”

but private accounts should be free to share their opinions online without unnecessary restrictions.

Gracia said he would ask the Comelec en banc for the removal of the registration and regulation of socmed (social media) accounts of private individuals, so there would be a balance between transparency and free expression.

“I believe it’s correct that we can’t cover private individuals… They’re not candidates, and they’re not political parties,” he added. Last month, the Comelec released Resolution No. 11064, which mandates that all candidates, political parties, and their campaign teams register

That is absolutely true. Sometimes I would even give additional incentives,” the Duterte patriarch said. Retired police Col. Royina Garma earlier told the Quad Comm that Duterte and other high-ranking officials during his term operationalized the so-called "Davao model" of EJKs on a nationwide scale, rewarding cops for every drug suspect killed with incentives ranging from P20,000 to P1 million. She revealed Duterte instructed former National Police Commission head Edilberto Leonardo to implement the drug war model nationwide. Leonardo corroborated Garma’s statements, while Lt. Col. Jovie Espenido—widely regarded as the Duterte administration’s “poster boy” for the war on drugs—said the cash incentives came from jueteng, POGOs, intelligence funds, and the PCSO’s own small-town lottery.

Espenido said the money allegedly “flowed from the level of Bong Go,” referring to Duterte’s long-time aide, now Senator Christopher Go.

“If there is an operation which is not funded by the police, you have to provide…I sometimes gave extra as a reward,” Duterte said, adding the extra funds could amount to P20,000 for certain operations.

Pressed on the use of confidential funds to bankroll the war on drugs, Duterte said: “That's why the intel-

ties on monitoring the developments on the ground. Rest assured that DMW, along with its partner agencies, is ready to provide support and assistance to our OFWs," Cacdac said.

During Trump’s campaign, he repeatedly railed against undocumented immigrants, employing violent rhetoric about those who "poison the blood" of the United States. In rally speeches, he wildly exaggerated local tensions and misled his audiences about immigration statistics and policy.

However, violent crime, which spiked under Trump, has fallen in every year of President Joe Biden's administration.

The number of US border patrol encounters with migrants crossing over from Mexico illegally is now about

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“Moreover, the use of straight baselines around the shoal by China contravenes UNCLOS and the final and binding 2016 Arbitral Award,” the Council said in a statement.

On Wednesday, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. told his Australian counterpart about Beijing's increasing pressure on the Philippines to relinquish claim over a huge portion of its maritime territory, despite a 2016 arbitral ruling invalidating China's extensive claims.

“What we see is an increasing demand by Beijing for us to concede our sovereign rights in the area because of our need to explore and exploit the resources in these areas for the benefit of our own people,” Teodoro said at a press briefing in Canberra after meeting with his Australian counterpart, Defense Minister Richard Marles.

Teodoro noted that China's "grey zone" tactics, like deploying maritime militias under the guise of law enforcement, have intensified. He reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to strengthening its defense and deterrence capabilities.

“And that is clear, we don’t need to enter into a geopolitical nexus for determining the root cause of the problem, because we are direct victims of Chinese aggression in this and in a concentrated area so far,

their social media accounts, websites, and other digital and internet-based platforms that will be used for virtual campaigning.

The resolution also specifically requires “those created, or managed by any person or entity, other than the candidates or parties themselves, that are primarily designed or primarily used to promote the election or defeat of a particular candidate or candidates” to also register their accounts with the Comelec’s Education and Information Department.

Garcia acknowledged that this regulation could inadvertently encroach on citizens’ freedom of speech and expression.

ligence fund called it confidential. So please don't ask what confidential things did I do.”

Duterte, however, clarified he did not personally verify each target of the drug war, leaving that responsibility to the police.

“The vetting responsibility was never mine. Do you expect me, as mayor or president, to personally verify each entry on the list?” he said. He likewise denied a statement he made in 2016 that he threw an alleged kidnapper from a helicopter as a threat to corrupt public officials.

Duterte said his statement – widely reported by global media outlets – was mere "hyperbole."

“That's just hyperbole sir. The pilot won't agree,” Duterte said. What he admitted, though, was personally killing six or seven people he described as "criminals" during his time as Davao City mayor. Under questioning from Gabriela party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, Duterte was asked if he had ever personally killed anyone.

“Me? Many. Between 6 to 7. I wasn't able to follow up if they succumbed at the hospital," Duterte said under oath. “I have no patience for criminals." For his part, Senate President Francis Escudero appeared baffled by Duterte’s call for the ICC to expedite its investigation into the EJKs committed during his administration.

the same as in 2020, the last year of Trump's presidency, after peaking at a record 250,000 for the month of December 2023.

Trump vowed to tackle migrant gangs using the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 – which allows the federal government to round up and deport foreigners belonging to enemy countries – as part of a mass deportation drive he christened "Operation Aurora."

Aurora was the scene of a viral video showing armed Latinos rampaging through an apartment block that spurred sweeping, false narratives about the town being terrorized by Latin American migrants.

Trump has similarly promoted the fictitious story that Haitian migrants in Springfield, Ohio, are eating residents' pets. With AFP

thus far, in the [WPS],” he noted. Teodoro's remarks came during his official visit to Australia, where both governments agreed to bolster bilateral defense ties, and hold more joint patrols and military exercises.

During their meeting, both ministers expressed deep concern over dangerous actions taken by China against Philippine vessels in the disputed waters. The ministers stressed the importance of upholding international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which guarantees freedoms of navigation and overflight.

They reiterated their support for the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal ruling, which they emphasized was final and binding on all parties.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy (PN) on Tuesday launched a locally assembled gunboat amid China’s increasingly aggressive posturing in the WPS.

The Fast Interdiction Craft-Missile (FAIC-M) Project, christened, BRP Albert Majini (PG909), joined the PN’s high-speed gunboat fleet, intended to address current and emerging security threats.

"This milestone represents our progress in strengthening national security and our commitment to advancing the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program, particularly in shipbuilding," said the PN’s Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Adm. Adaci Jr.

IN BRIEF

PH team wins 2nd place in robotics tilt

THE Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) reported Tuesday a significant achievement in the Philippine aerospace field. According to PhilSA, Team Inflection Point of the Batangas State University (BatStateU) has won second place in the 5th Kibo Robot Programming Challenge (Kibo-RPC).

The Kibo-RPC is an international challenge organized by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). During the challenge, each team created code to program NASA’s freeflying robot, Astrobee, to designated locations within the Japanese “Kibo” module aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

Out of the 611 teams from Kibo-ABC member countries that submitted their entries, 13 teams made it to the final round of the 5th Kibo-RPC. Inflection Point is the first-ever Philippine team to join and win at the Kibo-RPC. Rex Espiritu

LandBank gives aid for typhoon victims

LANDBANK is extending a total of P14 million in financial assistance to various local government units (LGUs) impacted by tropical storm Kristine, as part of ongoing initiatives to fast-track local recovery and rehabilitation.

The cash donation will support 130 LGUs across Luzon and Visayas, where communities face extensive damage from the recent tropical cyclone.

“This funding provides critical support for our LGU partners to augment their Calamity Funds and sustain vital services for evacuees. As recovery timelines remain uncertain, LandBank is committed to helping LGUs respond swiftly and effectively to the needs of their communities,” said LandBank president and CEO Lynette V. Ortiz.

The P14 million LandBank donation is in addition to the P1.1 billion assistance extended by the government to affected families, as announced by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

AFP, Sulu LGU conduct

med mission

THE Advance Craniofacial Project Philippines Inc. (ACPPI), in collaboration with the 11th Infantry Division (11ID) and the Sulu Provincial Government, conducted a free cleft surgery operation at Camp Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital (CTBSH), located within the 11ID headquarters in Camp Bautista, Jolo, Sulu. According to Alakdan Division, through this initiative, 43 beneficiaries, primarily children, received transformative surgeries, giving them renewed confidence and brighter futures.

Mae Ann Padilla, CEO of ACPPI, expressed profound gratitude to both the military and local government for their unwavering support. Lt. Col. Luisita P. Clavecillas II, Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations, echoed her sentiments, acknowledging the program’s positive impact on the community. Sulu Vice Governor Abdsakur T. Tan also voiced his appreciation, emphasizing the program’s significant impact on underserved communities.

Tan provided each beneficiary with 5,000 pesos as cash assistance to help with travel expenses and recovery needs. Rex Espiritu

Anti-crime body to deport 42 foreigners in Bataan POGO raid

FORTY-TWO foreigners who were arrested in a raid at an alleged illegal Offshore Gaming Operation (POGO) hub in Bagac, Bataan will be deported, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said.

In a memorandum dated November 12, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin — who also sits as PAOCC chairperson— instructed the Department of Justice (DOJ), and Bureau of Immigration (BI) to facilitate the deportation process of the foreigners who are temporarily staying at a de-

HOLIDAY MERCHANDISE.

A vendor sells Filipino-made Christmas lanterns along Aguinaldo Highway in Imus, Cavite on November 12, 2024, as the holiday season approaches. Norman Cruz

tention facility in Pasay City, GMA News reported. “On October 31, 2024, the PAOCC conducted a successful law enforcement operation against Central One, an illegal Offshore Gaming Operation masquerading as a business process outsource operating in Cen-

tro Park, Barangay Parang, Bagac Bataan. This resulted in the arrest of 42 foreign nationals that will be subjected to the deportation process,” Bersamin, quoted by the report, said.

“Considering these, the DOJ and the Bl are hereby directed to facilitate the summary deportation of the foreign nationals apprehended and subsequently transferred to the temporary detention facility in NASDAKE Building located at #50 Williams St., cor. FB Harrison St., Pasay City, and blacklist said individuals to bar their re-entry into

Remulla: Proactive approach to class suspensions

DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Tuesday vowed to take a proactive approach in announcing government work and class suspensions due to typhoons.

Remulla made this statement after receiving authorization from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to announce suspensions amid incoming weather disturbances.

the Philippines subject to applicable laws, rules, and regulations,” he added.

Authorities reported that they uncovered an illegal gambling operation center when they raided a business process outsourcing firm due to alleged labor trafficking. More than 40 foreigners were nabbed in the operation, police reported.

Among the arrested POGO workers is an Indonesian who is wanted in his country for alleged scamming activities, money laundering, as well as online gambling.

NPC to probe GCash ‘data breach’ case

By Othel V. Campos

THE National Privacy Commission (NPC) said Wednesday it will initiate an independent investigation following an email from electronic wallet GCash on Nov. 11, 2024. GCash asserted there was no data breach or compromise of user credentials related to the recent unauthorized transactions resulting in lost funds for some users.

The e-wallet giant assured the NPC that customer data remained secure. The NPC said, however, that it would proceed with the investigation under the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (DPA) to confirm these claims.

Remulla also highlighted a key lesson learned from Severe Tropical Storm Kristine: the importance of anticipating the depth and flow of expected rainfall.

“They did not anticipate that within 36 hours, 960 millimeters was dumped in Sorsogon. And that’s a record num-

“We gather all the information and we make a predictive model and the rain forecast model. Before it was only the path and the wind, but now we also include the rain forecast,” he said.

ber. Remember, Ondoy was only 480 millimeters,” he added.

The DILG chief indicated that the weather bureau will be releasing guidelines more frequently. Four days before a typhoon’s arrival, the Office of Civil Defense, regional offices, and local government units will be notified of possible scenarios. “Our timeline now is four days before, because it can be seen on the weather map,” he said.

“When it’s 2,000 kilometers away

from the Philippine area of responsibility, then we start tracking the storm and initiate the preemptive measures,” Remulla noted, emphasizing that this system has proven to be effective, as there were zero casualties recorded in Northern Luzon when a major storm hit twice in a row. He also lauded the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) for its effective preemptive evacuation of residents in areas along the path of Severe Tropical Storm Nika. Rex Espiritu

Pinoys to design Miss Universe 2024 crown

By Angelica Villanueva

FOR the first time in history, the official crown for Miss Universe 2024 will be designed and handcrafted by Filipino artisans.

Luxury brand Jewelmer said this will put the spotlight on the Philippines’ unique artistry in the beauty pageant’s decades-long history.

In a collaborative Instagram post on Wednesday, Nov. 12, Miss Universe shared a glimpse of the creation of the latest version of the most coveted beauty pageant crown in the universe.

“Jewelmer makes history with the first Filipino-crafted crown for [the] the Miss Universe,” the caption said.

While the crown itself and its name remain under wraps, Jewelmer shared a

teaser on social media to offer a glimpse of what’s to come, describing the crown as “a striking emblem of the magic.”

“Countless hands have contributed to this masterpiece —from Jewelmer’s dedicated pearl farmers to the Filipino master craftsmen—making it a striking emblem of the magic that transpires when man works in harmony with nature,” it continued.

“As the first Filipino-crafted crown in the Miss Universe Organization’s renowned history, Jewelmer is honored to shine the light on the Philippines’ beauty and artistry to international audiences,” Jewelmer in a statement said.

It also noted that the crown was meticulously handcrafted by Filipino artisans trained in the traditional techniques used in Place Vendôme, the heart of luxury and craftsmanship in France.

The investigation will verify the absence of a personal data breach, ensuring transparency and accountability in the protection of GCash users’ personal information, it said. The NPC said its authority is focused on the protection of personal data, as defined under the DPA.

While the NPC focuses on the privacy implications of the incident, it advises users with monetary concerns to reach out to financial regulatory agencies.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) earlier directed G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI)—GCash’s operator—to swiftly resolve the reported unauthorized deductions and ensure refunds to affected users.

The BSP confirmed that GXI reported a system error as the cause of the incident and started refunding impacted accounts. The central bank said it is closely monitoring GXI’s actions, requiring regular updates and coordinating efforts to safeguard users’ funds.

Meanwhile, GCash said it continues to expand by teaming up with partners worldwide. It said it partnered with Island Pacific Seafood Market, a top Filipino supermarket in the United States to bring digital financial inclusion to Filipinos worldwide.

With over 20 stores in California and Nevada, the Island Pacific Seafood Market is a fixture in Filipino communities in the US. The partnership will equip the supermarket with GCash services

(ACPPI),

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024 MST.DAYDESK@GMAIL.COM

IN BRIEF

Extra P500-m funds to power up schools

THE Senate Committee on Finance has granted the request of Senator Sherwin Gatchalian to augment the Department of Education’s (DepEd) funds for school electrification.

The committee report on the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for fiscal year 2025 (House Bill No. 10800) added P500 million to the P1.295 billion allotted for the school clectrification program. The program seeks to energize off-grid schools and modernize the electrical systems of the on-grid ones.

“As we all know, some of our schools are still left in the dark, and I would like to thank the Senate Committee on Finance for adding P500 million to the school electrification program,” Gatchalian said during his interpellation of the DepEd’s proposed budget for 2025. While other countries in East Asia and Southeast Asia already achieved universal access, the Philippines still faces challenges regarding the complete electrification of schools, he added. Joel E. Zurbano

Senator hits PhilHealth over unused P89b funds

SENATOR Joseph Victor Ejercito has scored the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.(PhilHealth) for alleged failure to provide sufficient financial relief to patients.

During the Senate interpellation of the Department of Health’s 2025 budget, Ejercito expressed frustration over the unspent P89 billion of PhilHealth funds, questioning why the appropriation was not used alleviate public healthcare concerns.

“We felt we were deceived. We fought hard to secure more funding for healthcare, only to learn that billions remain unused. This should be used for the people,” said Ejercito, principal sponsor and author of the Universal Healthcare Act.

A 2019 study showed that PhilHealth’s support value was at 66 percent as indicated by the National Health Objectives 2023-2028. But latest data showed that PhilHealth’s support value for inpatient care was only 43.58 percent in 2020 and 56.80 percent in 2021. Joel E. Zurbano

PCCI-Aklan to hold investment forum

KALIBO, Aklan—The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Aklan (PCCI-Aklan) will hold a whole-day investment forum on Friday (Nov.15) at the Marzon Convention Center here.

Josefina de la Cruz, program director, said they expect around 100 participants from local government units, businessmen, and young professionals from Aklan, Iloilo, Antique, Boracay Island and Capiz to attend the forum.

Among those who have confirmed their participation in the forum were officials from the regional offices of the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Jaycees, the academe, and PCCI officers from all over Panay Island.

“Participants are expected to learn and engage in topics about investment opportunities in the evolving Western Visayas economic landscape,” said Dela Cruz, a former PCCI-Aklan president. Jun Aguirre

SSS tells members to update contact information

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE Social Security System (SSS) has called on its members to immediately update their contact information, especially their mobile numbers as the staterun pension fund implemented MultiFactor Authentication schemes during logins to the My.SSS Portal.

In a statement, SSS officer-in-charge Voltaire Agas said the SSS took a proactive step by incorporating an authentication process whenever its members log in to their My.SSS account, adding, “It will enhance the security of the SSS online portal.” Agas said the passcode will be sent to the member’s registered mobile numbers in the SSS records whenever they access their My.SSS accounts. He added that outdated or inactive contact information can be a problem when logging into the portal.

“Updating your contact info ensures you get the codes to verify your identity when you sign in to your online account.” Hence, we are urging our members to update their contact information,” Agas added.

Agas, who is also the SSS executive vice president for branch operations sector, said members can update their contact information online or at any SSS branch offices.

“If you have an existing mobile number in the SSS database, but no longer use that phone number, you can update your details online through your My.SSS account,” he explained.

Stable policies needed to ensure growth—bizmen

TOP business leaders have emphasized the need for stable policies to ensure economic growth in 2025 during Pilipinas Conference 2024, organized by the Stratbase Group.

During a panel discussion, Ayala Corp. chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala highlighted the importance of upholding the sanctity of contracts and ensuring long-term policy stability to encourage more investments in the country.

“I have always been a great believer that private capital should be used extensively to address some of the public sector pain points in the country. For that,

you need an environment that is friendly to that type of collaboration between the public and private sector,” Zobel de Ayala said.

“For that, the contracts have to remain sacred. And one must be consistent in the framework that is accepted by the government. And if that is given some stability over long periods of time, then you’ll see a lot of private capital in some of the bigger areas of the country,“ he explained.

Prime Infra president and chief executive officer Guillaume Lucci said the primary challenge in infrastructure development is the implementation of policies

in the local level.

“I don’t think national policies are really the problem, frankly. I think what happens often is there’s a little bit of a disconnect between sophisticated quality national policies and how they get implemented at the local level,” Lucci said.

“If there is one area of bottleneck, I would say that is the implementation of those policies at the LGU (local government unit) level,” he added.

Meanwhile, ACCIONA Infrastructure chief executive officer Jose DiazCaneja said there is a need to ensure that policies and projects apply in the long term, not just in one administration.

By Othel V. Campos

AGRICULTURE

Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has announced a likely price reduction for rice sold under the Rice-for-All program.

Under the program, the price of the cereal is expected to drop by P1 per kilogram (kg) from P43 to P42 per kilo, in line with the recent tariff cut and global price trends.

“This price reduction for the Rice-forAll program is a result of the combined impact of lower tariffs and global rice prices. However, the depreciation of the peso to P58 per US dollar, from P48 at the beginning of the year, has partially offset these benefits,” Tiu-Laurel said. He indicated that the price for the Rice-for-All program may decrease further in the future, depending on ongoing global price trends and exchange rate fluctuations.

The reduced price applies to the Ricefor-All program, which is available to all consumers without limitations.

A separate program offers P29 per kilo rice exclusively to vulnerable sectors such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo parents, and indigents. The P29 program allows individuals to purchase a maximum of 10 kilos per month.

President Marcos’ decision to reduce the tariff on imported rice from 35 percent to 15 percent effective July was meant to lower the overall cost of rice, a staple food for Filipinos.

Rice is a significant portion of the average Filipino’s food budget. Approximately P10 out of every P100 spent goes to rice. For the bottom 30 percent of income households, which includes farmers and fisherfolk, this figure rises to around P20 out of every P100.

By Vito Barcelo

THE

is used in the perfume and scents industry. The tree is very rare and is found in the deepest parts of the jungles of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines.

“These shipments violated the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), as well as the Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines and the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act,” the BOC said.

The confiscated agarwood will be turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for proper disposition.

BOC-NAIA district collector Yasmin Mapa emphasized the port’s dedication in protecting the nation’s borders against the illicit trade of goods, especially of endangered species of wild flora and fauna.

PH, US ARMY TALKS AT PENTAGON. Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido leads a defense and armed forces panel to roundtable consultation meetings at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia on projected US assistance to bolster the Philippine Army’s facilities and capabilities. Galido also meets with Lt. Gen. David J. Francis who leads the Center for Initial Military Training at the Pentagon.

RARE, VALUABLE AGARWOOD. The Bureau of Customs foils an attempt to smuggle out of the country a shipment of rare, valuable agarwood valued at P2.27 million through Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The seemingly insignificant pieces of wood, seized from a warehouse in Pasay City, were declared as mahogany chips by the unidentified shipper and consigned to a recipient in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

COASTAL ROAD FOR TABACO CITY. Tabaco City Mayor Krisel

OPINION

Reverse diaspora

SIXTY-EIGHT days from now, after Donald Trump’s inaugural as the 47th POTUS after serving as its 45th, he is expected, as he has vowed during and after the historic campaign of 2024, that he will order a mass deportation of all illegally residing “migrants” to what he thinks he can recreate as the “land of milk and honey”.

He has accused these illegally staying persons of stealing jobs that citizens of his country should be having, making these persons of mixed ancestries, whether from Mexico and other parts of the Caribbean and South American countries, or from different Asian countries, villains who must be deported en masse.

It is the easiest promise for Trump to undertake. He needs to hit the ground running.

Constructing a “great wall” in the southern border will take years, and lots of money which Mexico will not pay. Increasing tariffs as a punitive measure against the incredible rise of China is something his economic managers will yet need to weigh against inflation and a dangerous trade war. The US, after all, is no longer the economic uber-power it once was, and higher tariffs would mean higher prices that American consumers will have to bear.

Talking to Putin to cease his invasion and getting Zelensky or the Ukrainians to accede to a negotiated solution by ceding border lands with the hegemon beside them will not be an easy undertaking. Neither is the conflict in the Middle East going to be a walk in the park for Trump, although he is better at transactions than the Democrats and Biden were.

So the immediate action right after January 20 will be to expel all illegal aliens. Even our ambassador has already issued a call for our “T n T” kababayans to leave before they are apprehended and deported.

It will be a reverse diaspora for what is conservatively estimated to be 200,000 Filipinos in the US of A. Many have been staying in America for decades even. And it is not an easy undertaking, with its impact on our economy quite considerable.

Unlike Mexicans and other undocumented migrants who can be trucked to the south of the border, our kababayans will need to fly out, whether at their personal expense or with lots of repatriation assistance from our government.

Senator Imee Marcos was right in calling the attention of Congress on the need to provide funds in the general appropriations bill passed by the House and is now up for the Senate to alter or improve. We cannot be unprepared for an

eventuality staring us in the face. Better for solons to give up slices from their pork barrel entitlements, which cost us a trillion pesos in all, perhaps more, what with all the ayuda they are dispensing at the expense of major infrastructure projects.

The return of our kababayans will mean a drought in remittances for their families here. That is quite a hefty sum that will dent consumer spending which is the biggest part of our GDP.

—“—

Trump wants to play a different kind of Moses and force a great Exodus, but for sure, he will not pick up the bill.

And since many are part of our extended family system, they live with US-naturalized citizens or green cardholding relatives who have been used to depending on them to chip in for the extended family expenses such as rent, utilities, even food. Such is the reality for many of our TnT kababayans and the relatives who host them.

When I was assigned in Taiwan as chairman and resident representative of MECO, we had to plan ahead for the possibility of hostilities breaking up between the mainland and the island. With more than 150,000 Filipinos working there, immediate repatriation would be a nightmare.

MECO saved through the years for such a contingency, such that when the pandemic struck in 2020, along with our prolonged lockdowns, we faced an existential problem. We had to let go of employees, especially officers, took pay cuts, closed down one of our branch offices, cut administrative expenses considerably. Despite these measures, we never touched our contingency fund.

(MECO subsists on self-generated income, 75-80% of which comes from visa fees paid by Taiwanese visitors to the Philippines, plus passport renewals and notarial service fees. Being a private SEC-registered corporation, it does not get any funding from the national government. In fact, 20% of its gross revenues are remitted to the government.)

Like the US of A, one can only ship out our OFWs in Taiwan by air or perhaps maritime vessels.

Trump wants to play a different kind of Moses and force a great Exodus, but for sure, he will not pick up the bill. It will present a big, immediate problem for the country.

Busway counter flow proposal

SEVERAL months ago, I suggested to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority/ Department of Transportation, through an article, to study the feasibility of reversing the traffic flow of the EDSA bus carousel. My purpose was not simply to prevent illegal users but also because of other more practical engineering reasons. One is that passengers will no longer have to board the bus on the outer side of the lane which would be beneficial especially during inclement weather. The other is that there will be a possibility of narrowing the lane used by the buses, thereby allowing more space for the other vehicles using EDSA. When I made the suggestion, I traversed a good portion of EDSA to see whether minor civil engineering works in the form of traffic signal installations in critical areas and improved barrier placements can make it happen. My initial impression was that it is doable but requires a lot of work to ensure safety which should be the primary consideration if the plan is to be implemented. A lot of dry runs

EDITORIAL

No deferment of BARMM polls

IT’S final: the firstever parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) will push through on May 12, 2025, according to the Supreme Court.

Senate President Francis Escudero had earlier filed a bill seeking to postpone the BARMM elections based on the request of Malacañang that cited the recent Supreme Court decision on the exclusion of Sulu from BARMM.

by the passage of RA No. 11593 on 29 October 2021 may be different—the COVID-19 pandemic, and the absence of a Bangsamoro Electoral Code—recent developments speak nonetheless of institutional and statutory issues that warrant another postponement,” Escudero said.

—“—

The

Supreme Court has spoken.

ness to lead.” He pointed out that a postponement would allow the reassignment of employees to ensure the continuity of service delivery in Sulu, the continued implementation of ongoing programs in the province and facilitate the transfer of ownership of Bangsamoro government-owned assets and properties in Sulu to appropriate entities.

But the leadership of the former rebel group Moro Islamic Liberation (MILF) wants the elections to proceed next year.

and public information drives will also have to be undertaken. This is because the success of this plan would largely depend on driver discipline which unfortunately is practically nonexistent at the moment.

Let us hope a decision comes soon.

It was a bit surprising that when the plan was announced, the DOTr mentioned asking the opinion of the bus companies operating in EDSA as if the final decision will depend on what these bus companies would say and not because the plan is possible engineering-wise. Radio and TV reporters also interviewed a number of drivers and got varying responses. It would have been a lot better if the reporters went to the UP Engineering Department to ask for their expert opinion if such a plan is doable and beneficial to the public. I do hope that MMDA and

Another reason for the Escudero bill is the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority Parliament’s request for Congress to pass a law forming a new province to be known as Kutawato which will be composed of eight newly-formed municipalities. The creation of a new province needs the creation of legislative districts. Should Congress fail to pass laws to create such districts, it may result in the disenfranchisement of voters in the eight new municipalities.

“While the reasons behind the first postponement brought about

the DOTr will not simply base whatever decision they will make solely on the opinion of the bus drivers but more on a well thought of traffic engineering study saying that the plan can be done safely.

As I have also been saying in the past, MMDA should take another look at the way EDSA is being managed in order to maximize its potential more efficiently. This is because there is still a lot that can be done to improve traffic flow along the road. Unfortunately, MMDA and the DOTr do not think so and appear reluctant to enlist outside help to see what else can be done to make the road more efficient. I believe this is a huge mistake on their part. Whether the MMDA and DOTr will accept it or not, both agencies

It is not only the Senate that wanted the BARMM parliamentary polls postponed. The Office of the Special Assistant to the President (OSAP) backed the Senate bill. The OSAP argued that there is a need to study all the legal implications arising from the Supreme Court decision on Sulu and revisit the current legal infrastructure to ensure proportional and equitable representation within the BARMM and prevent disenfranchisement of its voters.

And then there’s Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr., who believes that “resetting the elections gives us ample time to address concerns that come with Sulu’s exclusion from BARMM and ensure the Bangsamoro government’s resilience and readi-

will always need outside input to do a better job. This is why there are consultants who are good in certain fields that can be tapped to help in certain areas like traffic signals. Considering that MMDA seems to have concentrated its major effort on EDSA, one would think that traffic flow along the road would at least have improved over the years but as we can all see, it has not. Something must be wrong with what it is doing.

For instance, according to the head of traffic management of MMDA, daily vehicular volume along EDSA has reached about 420,000 vehicles a day more or less. Whether in fact 420,000 is the maximum carrying load for EDSA on both corridors is open to question. I have been trying to find

“The MILF central committee hereby earnestly appeals for the 2025 parliamentary elections in the BARMM to proceed as scheduled, consistent with the call of His Excellency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in numerous speeches referring to the elections in the region,” it said.

Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia had indicated that the poll body would “proceed with all the activities in relation to election preparation for the BARMM” as the Senate bill filed by Escudero is not yet a law. Now that the Supreme Court has already spoken, it’s all systems go for the May 2025 BARMM polls to take place, and allow Muslim Mindanao to take another significant step toward self-rule.

out how this number was reached but could not find anyone who can give me a credible answer. Was this number reached by actually counting the daily vehicle volume using both North and South corridors or was it calculated based on the maximum load per lane per hour? Why is this important? There is a difference between the two.

Furthermore, MMDA in its concentration on EDSA should not forget to pay attention to C-5 and the Skyway because these roads have a huge impact in the efficient utilization of EDSA. Both can lessen traffic volume along EDSA. But let us hope that a decision on the counter flow will come out very soon together with all the guidelines if it is a go.

India, Pakistan smog smashes hazard records

CO2 emissions to hit new record in 2024

IN BRIEF

“There

“The bride is out of danger and she is being treated in a Gilgit hospital,” Ali added.

Naik Alam, a senior police official from the area, told AFP the driver appeared to have been speeding when he lost control at a curve.

The groom’s family had travelled from Punjab, more than 500 kilometres (300 miles) away, for the wedding and were returning home when the accident happened.

Road accidents with high fatalities are common in Pakistan, where safety measures are lax, driver training is poor, and transport infrastructure is often decrepit. AFP

PALAU’S president has accused China of flouting the Pacific nation’s maritime borders, raising concerns about research vessels lurking “uninvited” within its waters.

“We keep on raising flags and complaining about it, but they keep on sending them,” said President Surangel Whipps Jr, the pro-US leader re-elected this week.

“They continually don’t respect our sovereignty and our boundaries and just continue to do these activities,” he told AFP from Palau’s commercial centre Koror.

The most recent foray was detected earlier this week, Whipps told AFP on Tuesday evening, one day after claiming victory in presidential elections.

“Once again, Chinese vessels are in our exclusive economic zone uninvited.” In what appeared to be another deliberate prod, Chinese officials earlier this year bestowed new names on two underwater mountains already claimed by Palau, Whipps added. AFP

VIETNAM wants to restart nuclear power plans to meet its rapidly expanding energy needs, the government has said, after it scrapped two multibillion-dollar projects in 2016. Rapidly industrializing Vietnam, with a population of 100 million people, relies mostly on coal and hydropower to power its fast-growing economy. Despite its dependence on fossil fuels, the communist nation has committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, supported by a Just Energy Transition Partnership -- under which wealthier nations help developing countries switch to clean energy faster.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh told the National Assembly in Hanoi that his government had asked authorities to restart

China’s Xi heads to Peru for APEC meeting

CHINESE leader Xi Jinping headed to Peru on Wednesday, bound for a meeting of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) organisation leaders overshadowed by fears of renewed global trade tensions under Donald Trump.

Xi will join leaders from the United States and other Asia-Pacific nations in the Peruvian capital Lima for the APEC gathering, after which he will go to Brazil for a G20 summit. China -- the world’s second-largest economy -- is grappling with a prolonged housing crisis and sluggish consumption that could worsen under Trump, who has promised to slap 60 percent tariffs on Chinese imports.

While in Peru, the Chinese leader will also inaugurate South America’s first Chinese-funded port, in Chancay, around 50 miles (80 kilometres) north of Lima.

Expected to serve as a major trade hub, the $3.5-billion complex is seen as symbolic of Beijing’s growing influence in South America, where it has built a vast array of railways, highways and other infrastructure.

Bilateral trade between the Asian giant and Peru, one of Latin America’s fastest-growing economies over the past decade, stood at nearly $36 billion in 2023, making Peru China’s fourthlargest Latin American trading partner. The Chancay port will also serve

Airlines ground Bali flights due to volcanic eruption

AIRLINES in Australia, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia and Singapore cancelled flights to and from the Indonesian resort island of Bali on Wednesday, after a nearby volcano catapulted an ash tower miles into the sky.

Australia’s Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia all grounded flights after Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores island spewed a nine-kilometre (5.6-mile) tower a day earlier.

Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, India’s IndiGo and Singapore’s Scoot also listed flights as cancelled on Wednesday, according to an AFP journalist at Bali’s international airport.

“Volcanic ash poses a significant threat to safe operations of the aircraft in the vicinity of volcanic clouds,” said AirAsia as it announced several cancellations.

Multiple eruptions from the 1,703-metre (5,587-foot) twin-peaked volcano in recent weeks have killed nine people, with 31 injured and more than 11,000 evacuated, Indonesia’s disaster mitigation agency said Tuesday.

Eruptions can pose serious risks to flights, disgorging fine ash that can damage jet engines and scour a plane’s windscreen to the point of invisibility.

Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific also listed its flights as cancelled, rescheduling routes to and from Bali until Thursday.

“Virgin Australia has made some changes to its current flight schedule, due to the impacts of the volcano in Indonesia,” the airline said, listing scrapped flights to Sydney and Melbourne.

Jetstar said all flights to and from Bali would be halted until noon on Thursday. AFP

Chile, Colombia and Ecuador, among other South American countries, allowing them to skirt ports in Mexico and the United States for trade with Asia.

Starting Wednesday, Lima will receive government ministers and business leaders of APEC member countries, which also include Russia, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Chile and Australia.

Ministerial meetings will take place Thursday, followed by talks at the level of heads of state the following two days. State broadcaster CCTV said Xi will be accompanied in Peru by Foreign Minister Wang Yi. AFP

just not enough,” he told reporters, adding that any peak in emissions would only be ascertained after several years of data.

The preliminary findings show global CO2 emissions from fossil fuels rising 0.8 percent in 2024 compared to last year, reaching a record of 37.4 billion tonnes.

The research is based on monthly figures and projections to the end of the year and could therefore be slightly higher or lower than the current estimates. Researchers said increases in CO2 emissions from India as well as growth in international aviation drove emissions up, while emissions decreased in the

ERUPTION. Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki spews ash and smoke during an eruption as seen from Lewolaga village in Titihena, East Nusa Tenggara, on November

Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila hits new heights

THE ASICS Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila, presented by AIA Vitality, returns this Nov. 23 and 24 for its third year, bigger and bolder than ever. This unique event, Asia’s first and only Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series, combines running, live music and vibrant community energy in a two-day celebration through the heart of Manila. Participants will lace up for the marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K distances, experiencing the heritage-rich sites of Manila, each course accompanied by live bands, cheer squads and a fun-filled atmosphere. This year’s edition will be held at night, with the marathon to fire off at 10 p.m. on Nov. 23 and the half-marathon at midnight, and the 10K and 5K events following through the morning. Runners will traverse historic locations like Jones Bridge, Intramuros, Rizal Park, the National Museum and Manila City Hall, immersing themselves in the city’s rich culture. Join the fun and be part of the rhythm, the run, and the Manila spirit. Registration is still open. For more details and to secure your spot, visit www.runrocknroll.com/manila.

Meanwhile, from Nov. 19 to 22, Robinsons Place Manila will host the AIA Health and Wellness Expo, offering runners and the public an exciting preview of what’s to come. This event, backed by ASICS, AIA and City of Manila, will feature a range of exhibitions centered on health, fitness and community well-being.

Celebrating the 27th anniversary of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series, which began in the 1990s with the vision of making running fun through music, this event has become a global spectacle.

Organized by The IRONMAN Group Philippines, the event has transformed the running world with its festival-like vibe featuring bands at every mile, festive starting lines, and milestone moments that unite communities worldwide. Manila’s event offers more than just races. From training sessions with seasoned marathoners and ASICS coaches to medal showcases and an entertainer search contest, it inspires participants to prepare for race day and connects them with a larger community.

Princess Galura, general manager of Sunrise Events, part of The IRONMAN Group, expressed excitement about the event’s growth, noting the runners have enjoyed this musical journey, and that the enthusiasm from the EVO City Front Act Run has amplified excitement for the upcoming series.

Rodolfo Matas Jr., a para-athlete from Cebu City, competes in the men’s discus throw of the 8th Philippine National Para Games at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Wednesday. Matas said it was the first time he joined the national sports competition in almost two years of being a polio survivor. He also secured third spot in the said category. Jann Conrad Bonifacio

Bayla captures gold in women’s archery

A RCHER Elizabeth Bayla ruled the women’s compound open division in the 8th Philippine National Para Games on a cloudy Wednesday afternoon at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

The 56-year-old from Baguio City edged Paris Paralympian Agustina Bantiloc in the 15-arrow Olympic round, 132-131, to seize the gold medal during the five-day meet organized by the Philippine Paralympic Committee and backed by the Philippine Sports Commission.

“Mahigpit ang laban namin. Kahit sino pwedeng manalo sa amin,’’ said Bayla, who shifted to the compound event after topping the women’s recurve open during the 2019 edition of the PNPG.

Bantiloc topped the 72-arrow elimination phase with 639 points with 19 of her shots hitting the bull’sseye while Bayla had 25 perfect shots and finished with 637 points.

“With my score, qualified na ako sumali sa international competitions,’’ said Bayla, who is seeking to represent the country in the Asean Para Games next

“Siyempre lahat naman kami nangangarap na makapunta sa Paralympics,’’ said Bayla, who has an amputated left leg from the knee down.

Olympian swimmer Alkhaldi mulling retirement

By Peter Atencio

TWO-TIME Olympian Jasmine Alkhaldi is contemplating retirement ready to retire from swimming and is now embracing a new role by letting a young generation of athletes shine like she did in the past.

The 31-year-old Alkhaldi, who has been competing for the last 16 years, said this recently, with the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand still more than a year away.

“Right now, I have no competitions. I’m evaluating what I will do next,” said Alkhaldi, who has been a part of Ayala Corporation’s sports program for the last three years. Now a member of the marketing and communications’ group of Ayala Foundation’s Atletang Ayala program, Alkhaldi has embraced her job helping manage the needs of athletes the company has chosen to support in the next four years.

In her last international meet in February this year, the foursome of Alkhaldi, Xiandi Chua, Teia Salvino and Kayla Sanchez missed a chance to secure a spot in the Paris Olympics

women’s 4x100-meter freestyle relays.

That was when they finished with a clocking of 3:46.93 during the preliminaries, to end up at 12th spot out of 14, at the Doha World Championships.

“I’m 31 and ready to watch the younger generation excel and I’m in full support,” added Alkhaldi, who saw action in the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Alkhaldi has held the Philippine women’s record in the 200-, 100-, 50-meter freestyle and 100-meter butterfly and 50-meter butterfly events.

In 2022, Atletang Ayala recruited its initial batch of eight exceptional athletes, including swimmers Alkhaldi and Chua; archers Andrea Robles, Abby Bidaure, and Pia Bidaure; fencers Nathaniel Perez and Noelito Jose Jr.; and karateka Prince Alejo.

Support for the eight athletes saw them rise in the world rankings of their respective sports, while they were also employed by companies under the Ayala Group.

Atletang Ayala has moved on to support a

new batch of 19 athletes, under the watchful eyes of Alkhaldi.

“Hindi ko pa alam next year, if I’m part of the SEA Games team. But in terms of the program, I’m helping the athletes, manage both their time at work and in sports,” said Alkhaldi.

Paris Olympian and rower Joanie Delgaco was among 19 medal-winning national athletes picked for the initiative and signed to be employed as one of Ayala Group of Companies’ employees.

Also selected for the Atletang Ayala program were para-taekwondo bet Allain Ganapin, who went to the Paris Para Games, along with Amparo Acuña, shooting; Jason Baucas, wrestling; Abby Bidaure, archery; Baby Canabal, taekwondo; Janna Catantan, fencing; Dave Cea, taekwondo; Allaine Cortey, fencing; Laila Delo, taekwondo; John Ferrer, judo; Veronica Garces, taekwondo; Leah Jhane Lopez, judo; Noelito Jose Jr., fencing; Nathaniel Perez, fencing; Franchette Quiroz, shooting; Jonathan Reaport, archery; and Sammuel Tranquilan, fencing.

Abdon gears up for repeat Mabuhay Miles golf tourney bid

RYAN Abdon is bracing for a tough challenge to repeat as the Philippine Airlines (PAL) 28th Mabuhay Miles Elite Invitational Golf Tournament overall champion on Thursday when a full field of 350 players answers the shotgun start of the elite tournament at the Midlands and Highlands courses in Tagaytay.

“I just hope that I get lucky again, although I am playing very well lately,” the 68-year-old Abdon said, meaning every word of it since he just scored the second ace of his career last Nov. 6, 2024 at hole No. 4 of Riviera’s Langer course using a pitching wedge from 140 yards.

Winning this tournament last year was one of the biggest in Abdon’s career, and he has wasted no time in getting himself the most decent shot he could with his division playing the championship, well-manicured Midlands layout.

“I’m still trying to get a practice round in, just in time for the tournament,” said Abdon, who, incidentally, triumphed last year at Orchard on Nov. 6. “I have been lucky with that date lately.”

Crack players from the most valued client list of the country’s flag carrier will be seeing action, with the tournament expected to go down the wire again like last year when an eagle became the marginal shot for Abdon.

Incidentally, a brand-new Mercedes Benz car, Mabuhay Miles points worth 116,000--enough for a business class ticket to the United States--two brand new golf carts from Get Go, Epic Rewards points worth 250,000 from Newport World Resorts and P100,000 of Casino Play Credits from Okada are all being staked for hole-in-one prizes on all par3s of the two layouts.

PAL president Capt. Stanley K. Ng will hit one of the ceremonial drives at the Midlands to usher in the 18-hole championship, easily one of the best-attended corporate golf tournaments in the country as PAL gives thanks to its most loyal fliers.

MILO® expands sports programs with Safe Swim in partnership with PH Red Cross

AS part of the 60th-year celebration to make sports more accessible to Filipino children, MILO® Philippines proudly launched the MILO® Safe Swim - Drown Prevention Program this year.

Mounted in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross with whom MILO® shares a goal of drowning prevention awareness, the program provides kids and parents with the foundational skills and techniques to stay safe in and around water. This comes after drowning was found to be a leading cause of death among Filipino children aged 0-14, with an average of 3,200 kids losing their lives annually from a lack of emergency skills and training in the water. All in all, MILO® and the Philippine Red Cross, through Safe Swim, aim to

ultimately encourage water confidence and safety in both parents and kids and to help pave the way in reducing the risk of more drowning incidents in the country.

The first programs were held across Quezon City, Pasig City, and Cavite City with the participation of nearby elementary school kids as they began their journey in water safety with Swimtech, which delivered fundamental swimming instruction.

The swimming segment focused on basic water skills like floating, kicking, and staying calm, all serving as important techniques that form the backbone of drowning prevention. By learning these essentials, children are equipped to respond to situations that may lead to panic or drowning. Each participant gained skills that emphasized staying afloat and moving safely in the water, allowing

them to build confidence and feel empowered during water activities.

The program’s second half was led by experts from the Philippine Red Cross, who introduced children to first aid and emergency rescue techniques specifically designed for water safety. The kids learned the critical “reach, throw, don’t go” approach, which teaches them how to assist others in trouble without endangering themselves.

This segment also included basic first aid principles, such as identifying safe and unsafe water practices, and ensuring participants gained the skills and knowledge to act responsibly in emergencies. The Philippine Red Cross training added a new layer of preparedness, emphasizing that knowing what to do can make a crucial difference in an emergency.

Elizabeth Bayla year in Thailand and the 2026 Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan. Bayla’s ultimate dream, however, is to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.

Kids learn about the swimming fundaments to help prevent drowning

Jasmine Alkhaldi (left) with an Ayala Corporation executive and fellow swimmer Xiandi Chua.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor

Sotto to play in FIBA qualifiers;

Edu, Malonzo still recuperating

By Peter Atencio

ONLY one of three injured players in the current Gilas Pilipinas roster will be able to play in the second window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifi ers in Manila next week.

Team officials bared on Wednesday that 7’3” big man Kai Sotto can play when the national squad clashes with New Zealand on November 21, and Hong Kong on November 24, in games that will be played at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Sotto, who is now in the country, suffered an ankle sprain during the

Koshigaya Alphas’ 80-67 victory over fellow Gilas player AJ Edu’s team, the Nagasaki Velca, recently in the Japan B. League.

Team manager Richard del Rosario said they will have to wait until Sotto finished following medical advise. Sotto is complying with medical advise from B.League doctors, who are

observing his situation as he has been placed under concussion protocol.

Del Rosario discussed the health of Gilas Pilipinas during a conference at the Cignal Customer Experience Center at the Launchpad in Mandaluyong City.

Edu’s condition will take two more months, as the 6’10” big man is still recovering from a knee injury suffered late last year, while playing for the Toyama Grouses, also in the Japan B.League.

Jamie Malonzo is still sitting it out as he continues to go through rehabilitation from the calf surgery he sustained during the eliminations of the

Coach Tim Cone said he is keeping the present 15-man lineup for the coming window.

This is to keep the present members of the squad familiar with each other, ensuring continuity in their development.

“We have five days of preparation. It’s always a challenge. We keep talking about the continuity of the program,” said Cone. He added that the squad has been ready and intact since the first window and in the Olympic Qualifying Tournaments early this year.

Perez keeps top spot in fencing meet

By Randy Caluag

NATHANIEL Perez continues to reign as the top men’s foil fencer in the Philippines, capturing the championship at the recent 2024 National Fencing Championships held at the Philsports Fencing Center in Pasig. Perez clinched the title in a hard-fought final against Prince Felipe, while Sam Tranquillan and Louis Shoemaker earned a bronze each.

“They often say that once you’re at the top, there’s no room left for improvement. I disagree,” he wrote. “The effort required to maintain your ranking drives continuous growth and improvement,” Peres wrote on his page.

With renewed focus, Perez is now preparing for international competitions that he hopes will lead to a shot at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. Despite falling short of qualification for Paris 2024 alongside compatriots Noelito Jose and Hanniel Abella in the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Qualifiers, Perez remains undeterred and committed to his Olympic dream.

The national fencing event also saw other standout performances as Noelito Jose took home the gold in men’s epee, Janna Catantan won the women’s foil title, Julyn Nicanor claimed women’s saber, CJ Concepcion took the men’s saber title, and Krups Kaya Ednilag topped the women’s epee.

Perez’s Olympic journey has gained significant momentum with his recent inclusion in the Ayala Foundation’s Atletang Ayala program, which supports 19 Filipino athletes in their pursuit of Olympic success.

THE Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) hopes to spot potential members of the national team when it stages the SMART/MVPSF National Age-Group Championships on Nov. 16-17 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.

The two-day free sparring event has generated so much interest that it now has lured more than 2,000 participants from all over the country to take part in various age categories.

Backed by Philippine Sports Commission, Milo and the Philippine Olympic Committee, the tournament will not only highlight the progress of the sport in the country but will also unveil several of its promising players as young as four years old.

A player in a blue armor executes a head kick to her opponent. Smart/MVPSF

The participants will be categorized into Novice and Advance with four divisions

Hot finish lifts Fortuna to joint 8th; Sarines impresses

TAIWAN—Unable to get untracked in a backside start, Mikha Fortuna unleashed a strong finishing kick, birdying the last two holes to post a three-under 69 and trail Thai PK Kongkraphan by four at the start of the Party Golfers Ladies Open here on Wednesday. Fortuna’s late surge at the par 35-37 Lily Golf and Country Club course in Hsinchu county not only turned her fortunes around but also bolstered the Philippine contingent’s standing in the NT$5 million championship of the LPGA of Taiwan (TLPGA).

The tournament saw a promising performance from young amateur Mona Sarines, who led the Filipino participants early on. The junior golfer played impressively without succumbing to pressure, stringing birdies on Nos. 1, 2 5 and 7 against a bogey on No. 3. Despite two bogeys at the back, her one-under 71 displayed her potential as a rising 13-year-old prodigy in the sport.

On the other hand, Fortuna’s steady play included a 13-par run from the backside of the rolling layout before birdies on Nos. 8 and 9 gave her a final 32-37 card.

The reigning LPGT Match Play champion credited her calm approach and slight familiarity with the course

for her solid start, saying: “I was a bit nervous coming into this event, but I reminded myself that I played here last year. I know the course, so I just focused on my game plan.”

Her efforts on the greens were met with resilience, as she admitted to struggling with her putting but persisted with determination. Her patience paid off, rewarding her with a spot among the Top 10, alongside local players Hsin Lee, Chen Tseng, Szu-Han Chen and amateur Jie-En Lin and Thai Chonnokam Chaiyasith.

Meanwhile, Kongkraphan took the early lead with a 65, finishing her round with back-to-back birdies.

A former LPGA Tour player and winner of multiple TLPGA events this year, including the ICTSI Luisita International in April, Kongkraphan demonstrated her championship form with a 31-34 card to lead a competitive field that includes fellow Thia Nook Sukapan and Taiwanese Tsai Ching Tseng and Phoebe Yao, who all carded 67s with defending champion Ling-Jie Cheng at solo fifth with a 68.

Pauline del Rosario, the first and only Filipina to win on the TLPGA in 2017, mounted her own comeback, closing with three birdies in the last six holes to rally

under each category, namely: Juniors, Cadet, Grade School and Toddler.

All male and female competitors will be classed accordingly and this early, entries from Manila are loom as heavy favorites to dominate the tournament.

It is also part of PTA’s massive effort to produce another Roberto “Kitoy” Cruz who dominated his weight category for years before earning a slot in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Just recently, Tachiana Mangin made heads turn when she captured the gold in the 49kg of the World Taekwondo Junior Championships.

As an added attraction, the famed Kyungmin University Demonstration Team has been invited to perform during the opening ceremony set at 1 p.m. Action, however, starts at 9 a.m.

New Mexico United ace player returns to PH team

By Peter Atencio

EXPECT Zico Bailey, a talented rightback, to return to the Philippine national men’s football team in its coming games in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024.

The 24-year old Bailey’s club team, New Mexico United, lost to Las Vegas United, 0-1, in the Western Conference semifinals of the United States Football League (USL) over the weekend. This will make the 5’7” Bailey available for the Philippine squad when they compete in the ASEAN tournament this December.

National training director Freddie Gonzalez said coach Albert Capellas is seeking the availability of Bailey, who has played four times during the time of Tom Saintfiet as national mentor.

“There are a few players from the last window who will not make it. The likelihood of Zico not making it in this window is if they don’t win (in the USL),” said Gonzalez.

Capellas is bringing back most of the players that played in the recent King’s Cup in Thailand in the tournament, formerly known as the AFF Suzuki Cup. When Bailey joined last March, he was included in the 28-man national squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches. This included games with Vietnam and Indonesia. Also part of the current squad are goalies, Kevin Ray Mendoza, Quincy Kameraad and Partrick Deyto. The others are Audie Menzi, Paul and Jefferson Tabinas.

Coach Tim Cone (3rd from left), with SBP Executive director Erika Dy (left), SBP president Al Panlilio (2nd from left) and team manager Richard del Rosario

PBA Philippine Cup, while playing for Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.

Mikha Fortuna

Nathaniel Perez

Business group backs DTI’s probe on cement dumping

By Othel V. Campos

THE Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) expressed support for Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque’s decision to launch a preliminary motu proprio safeguard investigation on cement imports.

FPI said Wednesday the investigation is a necessary step to address pressures and potential harm to the local industry amid the surge in imported cement.

“FPI appreciates DTI’s proactive stance in protecting domestic manu-

Cebu Pacific opens

promo

fares for flights to Sapporo

By Darwin G. Amojelar

BUDGET carrier Cebu Pacific announced a seat sale for the newlyopened direct route to Sapporo, Japan (New Chitose).

Cebu Pacific said travelers may book flights from Manila to Sapporo for as low as P1,488 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges from Nov. 13 to 19, 2024. The travel period is from Jan. 16 to March 29, 2025.

The company said that as the promo covers the best time to visit Sapporo, travelers could look forward to participating in all sorts of winter activities--from skiing and snowboarding at the Teine Ski Resort to sledding and building snowmen at the Takino Suzuran Hillside Park. Travelers could also experience the charm of the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, where the city comes alive with snow and ice sculptures illuminated at night.

Cebu Pacific said it would operate flights between Manila and Sapporo three times weekly – every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday beginning Jan. 16, 2025.

It will be the only airline to offer direct flights between these two cities.

Cebu Air Inc., operator of Cebu Pacific, posted a net income of P3.4 billion in the first nine months of 2024, 33 percent lower than last year.

The Gokongwei-led airline posted a total revenue of P74.5 billion for the nine months ending September 2024, an 11 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

This growth was driven by 17.5 million passengers flown, a 13 percent increase year on year, generating an average seat load factor of 84.9 percent.

facturers and ensuring a level playing field for Filipino businesses. This investigation shows secretary Roque’s commitment to the welfare of local industries that provide jobs and economic benefits to the country,” said FPI chairman Jesus Arranza.

The DTI initiated the investigation in response to the continued influx of foreign cement overwhelming the Philippine market, a move welcomed by the Cement Manufacturers’ Association of the Philippines (CeMAP).

Local cement producers face intense competition despite an annual production capacity of 50 million tons, more than the national demand of 35 million tons.

A recent DTI report revealed that cement imports steadily increased from 2019 to 2023, with spikes of 10 percent in 2020, 17 percent in 2021 and 5 percent in 2023.

Vietnam remains the leading source

of Philippine cement imports, accounting for 93 percent, followed by China and Indonesia, with shares of 1 percent and 5 percent, respectively. Arranza said FPI is committed to working with the government to promote fair competition, job creation and the long-term sustainability of Philippine industries.

As an umbrella organization representing diverse manufacturing sectors in the Philippines, FPI advocates for policies that support local industries, promote fair competition, combat smuggling and illicit trade and contribute to the country’s economic growth and sustainability.

DOTr, UltraPass to roll out biometrics processing at airports

THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) and UltraPass signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to roll out passenger biometrics processing at Philippine airports.

The partnership, announced Wednesday during a forum for the US delegation, is a significant step in enhancing passenger convenience and security at Philippine airports, starting with a pilot implementation at Iloilo Airport.

“This MOU with UltraPass for passenger biometrics processing is a milestone in our digital transformation journey. With our ongoing airport privatization efforts, including the recent transfer of Ninoy Aquino International Airport operations to a private concessionaire, we aim to implement further innovations that will benefit Filipino travelers across the nation,” said DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista.

The biometric system using embedded data in passports and the Philippine National ID will streamline the airport experience by reducing processing time for check-in, security screening, boarding and baggage retrieval.

The initiative will be rolled out in two phases: phase 1 for Filipino passengers using the national ID and phase 2 for foreign travelers using e-passports on domestic routes.

“We’re not only implementing advanced technology but setting a benchmark for digital transformation within ASEAN. UltraPass’ technology integrates seamlessly with the Philippine National ID, showcasing how digital identity verification can enhance efficiency, security, and a touchless airport experience,” said UltraPass founder and chief executive Eric Starr.

He said the initiative supports ASEAN’s digital economic framework, promoting a regional model that respects data sovereignty.

Othel V. Campos

Multilateral development banks boost climate funds

By Jenniffer B. Austria

CRUISE TOURISM. Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco outlines the Philippines’ vision to become a premier sustainable cruise destination in Asia under the Marcos Administration at the Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024. Frasco echoed the President’s call to improve ports and preserve and sustain development in the islands to

TRADE BLUEPRINT. Officials of the Department of Trade and Industry, together with the Philippine Retailers Association and the Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines, sign a memorandum of understanding on Nov. 8, 2024, to strengthen the country’s wholesale and retail trade industries. The agreement outlines key initiatives, including the development of a Job Blueprint to enhance workforce skills, promote innovation and drive economic growth.

rules and regulations and; STATEMENT OF FACTS

5. Section 23 of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA) mandates that a distribution utility has the obligation to supply electricity in the least cost manner to its captive market, subject to collection of retail rate duly approved by this Honorable Commission. In relation to this, Section 45 (b) of the EPIRA expressly allows distribution utilities to enter into bilateral power supply contracts subject to the review of this Honorable Commission. The same are consistent with the State’s policy to ensure the quality, reliability, security, and affordability of the supply of electric power.

BRIEF DISCUSSION OF THE COMPETITIVE SELECTION PROCESS

6. Through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) , ten (10) Electric Cooperatives (EC) of Region 8 agreed to conduct a joint procurement for their baseload requirement for the period of 2024 to 2033. The joint procurement was referred to as the Region 8 Joint Competitive Power Supply Procurement (R8 JCPSP). LEYECO IV is a member EC under R8 JCPSP.

7. Under the MOA, the Federation of Rural Electric Cooperatives in Region 8 Association, Inc. (FRECOR 8) was tasked to supervise and facilitate the transaction process, documentary requirements, and operational coordination among the member ECs of the R8 JCPSP.

8. A Joint Board of Directors (JBOD) was also created composed of General Managers and Board Presidents of the member ECs, which acts as the governing and policy-making body of the R8 JCPSP.

9. The JBOD passed Board Resolution No. 2023-11-002, Series of 2023 constituting the R8 Joint Bids and Awards Committee (JBAC) for the R8 JCPSP. A Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) and a Joint Secretariat were also created.

10. The R8 JCPSP was for the procurement of an aggregate power supply of 190 MW, divided into two (2) lots: Lot 1 for 162 MW, which commences in 2024, and Lot 2 for 28 MW, which commences in 2027. The R8 JCPSP followed the policy and rules prescribed under the Department of Energy (DOE) Department Circular No. DC2023-060021, and Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Resolution No. 16, Series of 2023.

11. On 15 December 2023, RB JCPSP Bidding Documents were submitted to NEA. NEA then issued a Certificate of Conformity No. NEA-RAO-COC-2024-02 dated 22 March 2024 when found the RB JCPSP’s Bidding Documents to be consistent with the latest posted 2023- 2032 Power Supply Procurement Plan of the member ECs of the R8 JCPSP. NEA likewise allowed the member ECs of the R8 JCPSP to proceed with the CSP.

12. Thereafter on 6 and 13 April 2024, the Invitation to Bid and Terms of Reference were published in the Manila Bulletin newspaper.

13. There was likewise a local publication under the Leyte Samar Daily Express and the EV Mail. Invitations to power suppliers were also sent through electronic mail and postings were made in the DOE CSP Portal and respective EC websites.

14. On 12 April 2024, Invitations to CSP Observers were sent to attend the PreBid Conference, including NEA, DOE, ERC, consumer representatives, community representatives, interested civil society organizations and consumers, and the Regional Development Council for Eastern Visayas.

15. On 23 April 2024, the JBAC conducted its Pre-bid Conference 1. During the Prebid Conference I, the comments and questions submitted by the bidders were reviewed and discussed.

16. On 18 May 2024, Supplemental Bid Bulletin Nos. 03 to 05 were issued and were posted on the DOE CSP Portal. They referred to amendments to the Terms of Reference, amendments to instruction to bidders, and amendments to the draft power supply agreement based on the comments and clarifications from the bidders of Pre-Bid Conference 1.

17. On 22 May 2024, the JBAC conducted the Pre-Bid Conference 2 to provide another opportunity for the bidders to seek clarification on the Bidding Documents and revisions made therein. CSP Observers were invited again.

18. On 08 June 2024, the JBAC issued the Final Instructions to Bidders, Final Terms of Reference, Supplemental Bid Bulletin Nos. 06 and 07 and other documents as requested by bidders in preparation for the submission and opening of bids. Invitations to CSP Observers were sent to attend the submission and opening of bids on 25 to 26 June 2024.

19. On 25 June 2024, bidders submitted their respective bids for Lot 1 and Lot 2. The bids were opened on June 25, 2024 for Lot 1 and on June 26, 2024 for Lot 2 in the presence of JBAC, participating bidders, CSP Observers and an Independent Auditor.

20. On 1 to 3 July 2024, the JBAC conducted a post-qualification evaluation of the lowest calculated bids for Lot 1 and Lot 2.

21. On 3 July 2024, the JBAC issued Resolution No. 02, Series of 2024, recommending to the JBOD to award the power supply agreements to the following bidders for Lot 1 for the period of supply of 2024-2033: Bidder Capacity (Lot 1) Therma Luzon Inc. 81 MW Sual Power Inc. 50 MW KEPCO SPC Power Corp. 31 MW

22. Further, the JBAC issued Resolution No. 03, Series of 2024, recommending to the JBOD to award the capacity of 28 MW for Lot 2 for the period of supply of 2027-2033 to SPI as the bidder having the lowest calculated responsive bid.

23. Consequently, on 3 July 2024, JBOD approved JBAC’s Recommendation to award the Power Supply Agreements to the bidders with the lowest calculated responsive bids for Lot 1 and Lot 2 through JBOD Resolution No. 2024-07-001 and 2024-007-002, respectively.

24. After its receipt of NEA’s Notice to Issue Award dated 13 August 2024 last 14 August 2024, on 19 August 2024, the JBAC issued a Notice of Award to SPI for the 50 MW baseload demand under Lot 1 of the R8 JCPSP, which was acknowledged by SPI on 21 August 2024.

25. On 29 August 2024, FRECOR 8 timely submitted to NEA the finalized draft PSA together with the Board Resolution and the justifications to the changes made in the PSA for the issuance of the Notice to Execute Agreement. However, it was only on 13 September 2024 when FRECOR 8 received NEA’s Notice to Execute Agreement dated 12 September 2024.

26. Thus, on 13 September 2024, LEYECO IV and SPI executed the Power Supply Agreement (PSA), commencing on the latter of the two dates: (i) September 15, 2024 or (ii) immediately after the issuance by the ERC of a Provisional Authority, or Interim Relief, or Final Authority, until 25 December 2033 with a contract capacity of 6 MW. Hence, this instant Joint Application for the approval of the PSA between LEYECO IV

BUSINESS SEC orders takeover of Lopa’s Equitiworld

By Jenniffer B. Austria

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) ordered the Capital Markets Integrity Corporation Corp. (CMIC) to take over the operations of Equitiworld Securities Inc. (EQWorld), a brokerage firm led by businessman Antonio Lopa, to protect its clients.

CMIC is a self-regulatory organization tasked to maintain the integrity of the market and ensure trading participants comply with all pertinent rules, regulations and code

of conduct of the local bourse and related legislative and regulatory requirements.

The SEC said it issued the takeover order on Nov. 12, 2024 after CMIC’s special audit showed that EQWorld was no longer capable to readily meet the demands of its customers for the delivery of securities and payment of sales proceeds.

It said the audit showed “material discrepancies” in the reported stock and cash positions of EQWorld, among others.

“This takeover order shall be without prejudice to institution of appropriate administrative, civil or criminal actions against [EQWORLD] for violations of the provisions SRC and/or the SRC-IRR which this Commission, the proper SRO, or the Exchange may, now or hereafter find,” the SEC said.

The SEC said it directed CMIC to promptly take possession and control of all of the books and records as well as trade-related assets of EQWorld.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024 extrastory2000@gmail.com

6,700

THE Philippine stock market sank for a sixth straight trading day as investors remained anxious over the possible impact of US president-elect Donald Trump’s policy in the region. The Philippine Stock Exchange index fell 95.78 points, or 1.41 percent, to close at 6,714.33 Wednesday, while the wider all-shares index ended at 3,792.46, down 27.88 points, or 0.73 percent.

BDO Capital & Investments Corp. president Eduardo Francisco said investors were still worried about the impact of Trump’s economic policy in Asian, particularly China. Francisco said the market was on an upward momentum prior to the US presidential elections, but sentiments turned sour after the result of the election came out and also because of lower third-quarter Philippine economic growth. He said investors, however, remain upbeat about next year as interest rates are expected to decline. All sectors were in the red, with the banks having the biggest loss of 1.84 percent, followed by the Industrials with 1.8 percent. Foreign funds continued to shift their funds back to the US as foreign selling amounted to P1.2 billion. The peso closed at 58.73 against the US dollar Wednesday, slightly up from 58.83 Tuesday. “So far this November, total net foreign selling has reached approximately P10.80 billion, with not a single day of net foreign buying recorded,” Philstocks Financial Inc research analyst Claire Alviar said. There were only three gainers among the index members, with Converge ICT Solutions, Inc. having the biggest gain of 3.01 percent to close at P16.44.

Children’s healthcare is paramount to a stronger PH economy

B. Austria

MALNUTRITION and and lack of access to education are the perennial challenges faced by our younger population.

A proper healthcare during the early stages of childhood is also an equal concern before we can declare children are fit to face adulthood. A proper nutrition and adequate protection mechanism to boost the immune system of a child during his formative years ensure his proper brain development.

Children become adults and with proper education, they will soon joint part of the workforce that fuels the economy.

—“—

In this age of age of fake news and conspiracy theories, the young and innocent are the casualties of war...

was a death-causing “vaccine” as shown by their self-serving data.

Amid the anti-Denvgvaxia conspiracy, small voices of truth are coming out from a few groups of real medical experts but their calls are drowned by the well-financed disinformation campaign. One can only wonder―where could have the money that finance such a massive misinformation campaign come from?

Dengvaxia actually is safe. Acosta and her minions in the media, as well as her conspirators from the leftist causeoriented groups, had twisted the facts on the report of the “theoretical risk” of Dengvaxia to people who have never contacted the dengue virus before.

But the early part of a child’s development is the most crucial part of his formative age. He or she must overcome health obstacles, given his or her vulnerable stage.

He or she must navigate health perils at a young and tender age. Health authorities, thus, must protect their welfare and vulnerability to pathogens that attack their weak immune system.

Health authorities, however, face formidable enemies in their job of immunizing innocent children, To make matters worse, some in the Philippines, more specifically politicians who have myopic eyesights, ignore science.

They even maliciously invented narratives of 600 deaths caused by Dengvaxia to dupe the public.

We found out later from the report in 2020 that there was not a single case in which Dengvaxia was clinically proven as the cause of death of any these people.

Why do the government and officials of the Department of Health remain silent about the truth that Dengvaxia is safe despite the rising death counts on this new outbreak of dengue?

It is high time, perhaps, for the DOH officials to stage a massive rectification campaign against the anti-Dengvaxia drive and ultimately regain public trust for the government’s vaccination program against dengue.

The measles outbreak of 2019, for instance, caused the deaths of more than 300 people and reached a staggering 23,500 cases. Health authorities naturally attributed the spike to lower vaccination rate caused by the Dengvaxia vaccine scare that resulted in parents’ hesitancy.

This year, 400 people have already been killed by the present outbreak of dengue disease, with more than 200,000 cases reported, up 68 percent from last year’s. Once again, experts blamed the spike in the number of deaths to vaccine distrust.

In this age of age of fake news and conspiracy theories, the young and innocent are the casualties of war, so to speak.

An article published in 2020 quoted Dr. Lulu Bravo Professor of Pediatric Infectious and Tropical Diseases at the College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, as saying that the anti-vaccine campaign was terribly effective in causing unprecedented mass hysteria.

She notes that following the Dengvaxia fiasco in 2017, mothers were driving away health workers when they came to villages on immunization campaigns and even callied them child killers.

The current dengue outbreak is the result of the negative and massive propaganda drive staged by the henchmen of the Duterte administration to politically demonize the vaccine program implemented by the Department of Health during the time of the late President Benigno Aquino III

As it turned out, the lies invented by the chief architect of Dengvaxia hysteria, Public Attorney’s Office chief Persida Acosta and her self-proclaimed forensic expert assistant, Dr. Efren Erfe, and their ambitious conspirators, paid vloggers and media friends, were so effective. Until now, people remain steadfast in their hesitance to have their children inoculated because of the sinister propaganda that Dengvaxia

Or do they, as doctors, expert pathologists and men of science, have reservations too on the reintroduction of Dengvaxia as the only mitigating solution to address the current onslaught of dengue?

The DOH may consider 400 deaths from dengue still low. What then is the death quota for dengue, measles, pertussis and other death-causing pathogens for the government to consider correcting the lies spread by those who are hungry for power and political opportunity?

But first things first. The DOH should hold all the people involved in the malicious anti-Dengvaxia campaign accountable for the deaths of people in the 2019 measles outbreak and in this year’s dengue outbreak. They should be exposed with all their lies and how they made money out from the scare tactic.

Meanwhile, the Regional Trial Court in Quezon City has dismissed all cases against DOH officials in the Dengvaxia issue.

“The prosecution and its supposed star witnesses, Dr. Clarito Cairo, Dr. Tony Leachon, and Dr. Erwin Erfe could not cite any concrete evidence that came with the hasty accusations. They misrepresented themselves as experts in the trial and their testimonies were declared inadmissible,” rules the court.

In sum, we cannot trust the future of our young children to scaremongers and conspiracy theorists.

E-mail: rayenano@yahoo.com or extrastory2000@gmail.com

Jenniffer

SOLAR KITS. Representatives of MGEN Renewable Energy Inc. (MGreen) and One Meralco Foundation (OMF) join Bongabon Mayor Ricardo Padilla, Vice Mayor Christian P. Binuya and local officials in celebrating the transformative impact of solar energy. The initiative brings sustainable energy solutions to off-grid areas, empowering communities. MGreen and OMF distributed 150 home solar kits to residents of Sitio Tamale in Bongabon, Nueva Ecija.

Converge ICT earned P8.2b in first three quarters

By Darwin G. Amojelar

CONVERGE ICT Solutions Inc.

said Wednesday its net income grew 29 percent in the first three quarters of 2024 from a year ago, led by an increase in residential subscribers.

The company said net income amounted to P8.2 billion from January to September, up from P6.4 billion in the same period last year.

Consolidated revenues went up by 14.1 percent to P29.9 billion in the nine-month period from P26.2 billion a year earlier, reinforcing the company’s position as the fastest-

NAIA operator reports higher on-time flights

THE New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the private sector operator of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), reported an improved ontime performance (OTP) despite handling a surge in passengers during the Undas peak travel season.

It said that between Oct. 29 and Nov. 4, NAIA handled 932,405 passengers and 5,627 flights — record volumes not seen in the last four years. Despite taking the reins of the 76-year-old airport less than two months ago and constantly facing capacity limitations, NNIC said it achieved a notable 87.99 percent ontime performance (OTP) for arriving flights — surpassing the industry standard of about 80 percent. The achievement highlights NAIA’s effectiveness in managing incoming aircraft flow, and providing a smooth arrival experience for passengers.

Departure OTP was slightly below standard at 75.46 percent, reflecting ongoing challenges with baggage handling processes.

A key factor contributing to these are malfunctions and breakdowns of lower deck loaders of airlines and their ground handlers. These equipment are used to load and unload baggage from the aircraft’s lower cargo hold.

These issues, exacerbated by a lack of available loaders and staffing shortages, resulted in baggage delays during the recent Undas peak season. Long immigration queues during peak times further compound the airport’s operational difficulties, it said. Darwin G. Amojelar

growing fixed broadband service provider in the Philippines.

Residential business grew to P25.4 billion, representing a 13.2-percent year-on-year growth. This was largely attributed to the increase in the number of residential subscribers.

FiberX gross adds in the third quarter was the highest of the last 10 quarters, with a churn rate maintained at around 2 percent.

Surf2Sawa recorded its highest quarterly gross and net adds, showing the continuous demand from the broader underserved market.

The company said it had 2,459,851 residential subscribers as of end-

September. This consisted of 2,218,003 postpaid subscribers and 241,848 prepaid subscribers.

Enterprise revenue also grew 19 percent year-on-year to P4.5 billion from P3.8 billion. The growth trajectory reflects the continued expansion of its enterprise customer base, reaching over 60,000 customers as of Sept. 30.

Converge said small and medium enterprises continued to be the fastest-growing sub segment, with a 30-percent revenue growth.

The company allotted P7.5 billion for capital expenditures as of endSeptember 2024.

Maharlika Fund asked to invest in PH nuclear power

By Othel V. Campos and Alena Mae S. Flores

THE Department of Energy is in talks with the Maharlika Investment Fund, the Philippines’ first sovereign wealth fund, to invest in or finance nuclear power projects.

DOE-Energy Utilization Management Bureau director Patrick Aquino said at the sidelines of the Philippine International Nuclear Supply Chain Forum 2024 at Solaire Resort North in Quezon City that Maharlika was scouting for investments in the power sector.

“The charter of Maharlika is to make investments. And they’ve been really looking at the power sector in particular. We leave it up to the sound judgment of Maharlika whether they come in at whatever stake [in nuclear],” Aquino said.

He said DOE would provide Maharlika information about nuclear projects so it could make an informed decision as to what extent, if ever they will invest in nuclear.”

Aquino said nuclear power is in line with Maharlika’s energy transition, low carbon option. “So I wouldn’t be surprised if it makes sense to them, the returns are there, they would go and invest in nuclear,” he said.

Meanwhile, a delegation of 16 American companies, representing

DEPARTMENT of Finance (DOF)

Secretary Ralph Recto said the government will launch the innovative GBonds with GCash in December 2024 to make investing easier and more accessible for the public. He made the announcement during the Bureau of the Treasury’s (BTr) 127th anniversary and government securities-eligible dealer (GSED) awarding ceremony on Nov. 12, 2024.

“For we envision a future where investing in government bonds is no longer a luxury but a new normal for Filipinos—with just a few swipes away and as easy as ordering their favorite food delivery. This empowers our people to effortlessly secure their

Wetland Park not affected by P103-b reclamation project—Las Piñas councilor

LAS Piñas Councilor Mark Anthony Santos said the proposed P103.8billion Las Piñas-Parañaque Coastal Bay Reclamation Project will not affect the Wetland Park’s viability and sustainability.

Santos said Alltech Contractors Inc. assured the public that the Las PiñasParañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area (LPPCHEA) would not be damaged during the construction and operation of the multi-billionpeso reclamation project. LLPCHEA was renamed Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park. Alltech Contractors proposed the reclamation project in 2009 involving 381.26 hectares in Las Piñas and 174.88 hectares in Parañaque. The Supreme Court (SC) upheld the Court of Appeal (CA) decision that dismissed the petition for Writ of

Kalikasan filed by a group seeking to stop the planned reclamation project of 635.14 hectares of Manila Bay along the Las Piñas-Parañaque coastline. The SC, in a 33-page decision penned by Associate Justice Rosmari Carandang, affirmed the decision dated April 26, 2013 and the resolution dated Aug. 14, 2013 of the CA. Santos said the SC did not give credence to the claim that the issuance of the environmental certificate compliance (ECC) by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) was marred with irregularities. The High Court also denied the petitioners’ request for temporary protection order (TEPO), enjoining the government and the project proponent Alltech Contractors from proceeding with the project covering 635 hectares of submerged land.

future, all from the comfort of their homes,” Recto said.

He called on GCash, the Philippine Digital Asset Exchange (PDAX) Inc. and regulators to speed up the process of launching the GBonds to bring the government closer to achieving financial inclusion for Filipinos.

“[A]s we push for greater retail participation and digital transformation, let me assure you that the economic team will continue fostering a stronger economy that provides favorable conditions for growth and investment,” he said.

Recto commended the government securities-eligible dealers for their critical role in nation-building by helping the government raise

funds and promote financial inclusion among Filipinos.

GSEDs are Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)-licensed securities dealers belonging to one of the financial service industries regulated by a government agency such as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), SEC or the Insurance Commission (IC). They are eligible to participate in the primary auction of government securities, helping promote depth and liquidity in the government securities market through position-taking and market-making in the secondary market, as well as support the capital market development initiatives of the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr).

all areas of the nuclear supply chain, gathered in Manila to explore trade and investment opportunities to support the Philippines’ energy needs. US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson cited the rapid growth in nuclear cooperation between the two countries, noting that what began as an idea two years ago had evolved into a full-scale trade delegation focused on advancing civil nuclear energy in the region.

“This initiative helps American companies focus their regional engagement and positions them to contribute to the development of peaceful, civil nuclear programs in countries like the Philippines,” Carlson said at the Philippine International Civil Nuclear Supply Chain Forum. She said the US Trade Development Agency would deepen the collaboration by organizing a reverse trade mission in 2025, where Philippine executives could visit the United States to experience advanced US nuclear technologies firsthand.

IN BRIEF

Oct. 24, 2024 in Mandaue City, Cebu are (from left) Atty. Alejandre Duenas II and Dr. Peter Lee U of the WESM Compliance Committee, Juliet Susmitha Aurellana and Amelia Caldo of the EPI trading and business development

BINONDO

3,300 leaders join 11th World

Fujian Convention in Malaysia

By Michael Wong Ho

THE 11th World Fujian Convention opened in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Nov. 9, 2024.

More than 3,300 leaders from the Fujian Overseas Chinese community across more than 100 countries attended the event.

Fujian, a province in South China on the west coast of the Taiwan Strait, is the ancestral home of many overseas Chinese, including FilipinoChinese tycoons who transformed the Philippine economy.

Chinese teacher competency workshop opens

THE Center for Language Education and Cooperation (ELEC) of China’s Department of Education opened the “2024 International Chinese Teacher Professional Competency Standards Workshop” on Nov. 9, 2024 at the Philippine Academy of Sakya.

The seminar featured three guest speakers from China, and 141 Chinese educators from 30 Filipino-Chinese school participated in the event.

Wu Yong Yi, a professor at East China Normal University and an expert consultant for the China Chinese Education Foundation, shared his insights.

Yao Qian, a deputy professor at Chongqing University, brought his extensive experience in international Chinese teaching to the discussion.

Chen Yan, a lecturer at Fujian Normal University, spoke about the Chinese teaching program at the Confucius Institute in Angeles State University.

Philippine Chinese Education Research Center (PCERC) chairman Huang Duan Ming and Metro Manila Chinese Teachers Association president Xu Pu Hua also attended the workshop.

Xu underscored the importance of the seminar as a pivotal event for local Chinese education and encouraged participants to engage actively and prepare for the upcoming International Chinese Teachers Certificate exam. Julie Ann Lope

These include Henry Sy Sr., John Gokongwei Jr., George Ty and Lucio Tan.

Among those who participated in the Kuala Lumpur convention is Federation of Filipino Chinese Associations president Cai Xiao Ning.

With the theme “Sailing Dreams of Maritime Silk Road, Gathering

Local Sentiments of World Fujian Overseas Chinese,” the event aims to encourage collaboration and shared development among participants.

The opening ceremony featured remarks from Malaysia House Speaker Datuk Seridan Doctor Harry, who underscored the convention’s significance in fostering cross-border and cross-industry partnerships.

He recognized the valuable contributions of the Chinese community to Malaysia’s development and economic advancement.

Datuk Seridan Lin Fu Shan, president of the Malaysia Federation

of Fujian Societies and chairman of the convention, highlighted Malaysia’s distinctive role as the only nation outside of China to integrate Chinese education into its national curriculum.

He pointed out the Malaysian Chinese community’s dedication to preserving the said educational legacy.

Lin also proposed the establishment of the Federation of ASEAN Fujian Societies.

The new federation is designed to strengthen regional cooperation among Fujian communities throughout Southeast Asia.

Leshangtang Charity celebrates decade of philanthropy

LESHANGTANG Charity Funds celebrated its 10th anniversary with a significant impact in the realm of philanthropy since its inception in October 2014.

Founded by a group of Quanzhou Chinese in the Philippines, the organization initially raised funds to assist a girl from Jinjiang suffering from leukemia. They then established the charity to continue supporting those in need.

In March 2016, Leshangtang expanded its efforts by inviting other Filipino Chinese organizations to form separate foundations, including the Mass Organizations Foundation, Merchants Foundation, Personal Foundation and the Memorial Foundation for Ancestors.

Each foundation operates under a distinct bank account to ensure transparency and accountability.

Leshangtang Charity Funds adheres to five core princi-

ples: no operational fees, transparent accounting, no personal honor, no use of personal names or cameras during activities and only accepting donations through bank transactions.

The guidelines emphasize the organization’s commitment to integrity in its charitable work.

As of Nov. 1, 2024, Leshangtang Charity Funds has donated P72 million and provided assistance to over 1,000 individuals in both China and the Philippines.

Chinatown charity marks 38th year, elects new leaders

By Julie Ann Lope

THE Manila Chinatown Charity Foundation celebrated its 38th anniversary on Nov. 9, 2024 at the Century Seafood Restaurant in Manila.

The event also featured the induction of the 18th batch of officers and the 9th batch of Medical Foundation board members.

Honorary executive director Gan Tiak Kheng chaired the assembly and reflected on the foundation’s accomplishments, particularly its initiative to provide free medical services to underprivileged Filipinos every Sunday, which has positively impacted hundreds of thousands.

Newly-appointed executive director Alberto Aquilino thanked the previous directors and urged collective efforts for the foundation’s growth, while Prof. Wu Ziwen, the new chairman of the Medical Foundation, pledged to support the foundation’s development during his tenure. Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) president Dr. Cecilio Pedro officiated the induction of the executive committee members, while Philippine Chinese Charitable Association Inc. (PCCAI) chairman Antonio Tan conducted the induction of the board of directors.

The event featured a keynote address by FFCCCII honorary president Tan Ching, who praised the foundation’s commitment to community service.

Counselor and Consul General Wang Yie from the Chinese Embassy, along with Federation of Filipino Chinese Associations of the Philippines Foundation (FFCAP) vice chairman Shi Chuncheng, also delivered speeches and support.

The organization also engaged in various disaster relief operations and charitable activities. Michael Wong Ho

Binondo restaurant stands out for vegetarian cuisine

BINONDO, known as Manila’s Chinatown, is a bustling district filled with vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. Among its many culinary offerings, Vege Select stands out as a delightful haven for vegetarian food enthusiasts.

The restaurant, which specializes in plant-based dishes, is located along Ongpin Street. Its vibrant red signage and corner location significantly enhance its visibility.

Vege Select has a cozy and casual dining atmosphere, perfect for both quick bites and relaxed meals.

It’s a great spot for those who want to enjoy healthy, flavorful meals with no meat involved, but still want the bold, savory tastes of Chinese cuisine.

The menu includes familiar flavors as well as unique dishes that encourage everyone to give plant-based options a try.

The freshly-cooked meals they serve delight the taste buds. Many dishes use tofu, soy products and a variety of fresh vegetables, often mimicking meat dishes with delicious and creative plant-based

alternatives.

They also have xiao long pao, cool noodles, plant-based beef noodles, halo-halo, hot and sour soup, lomi and mala-tang.

The restaurant also offers takeout goodies such as cha misua, fresh lumpia, peanut ke, cabbage siopao, fried radish cake, cuapao, fried shanghai, birthday pao, wheat siopao and more.

For those looking to explore vegetarian dining, Vege Select offers a perfect introduction in Binondo’s vibrant neighborhood.

PCCCII, Chinese Embassy distribute 6,000 bags of rice to Batangas typhoon victims

THE Philippine Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PCCCII), in collaboration with the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and the Philippine Chinese Chamber of Commerce Batangas Chapter, donated 6,000 bags of rice to communities in Batangas that were affected by typhoon Kristine.

The initiative was led by PCCCII president Hou Shi Lian, along with Batangas Chapter president Hong Shao Wei, who worked closely with local government officials to ensure the efficient delivery of aid to those in need.

The relief effort took place on Nov. 3 and 4 in various locations across Batangas.

City councilors and barangay officials took charge of the distribution in Barangay Balite in San Luis town, while Mayor Ian Alilio and his team facilitated the handout in Barangay Tuibigan in Lemery.

Nasugbu Mayor Antonio Jose Barcelon’s

daughter accepted the rice at the city center’s pavilion, while Vice Mayor Ronin Leviste oversaw the distribution at the Barangay Matabungkay covered court in Lian.

On Nov. 4, the relief team delivered 1,000 bags to Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, who organized the further distribution from the Bolbok Sports Center. Bauan municapality received 500 bags, which were handed over to Mayor Ryanh Dolor. Batangas City Mayor Beverly Rose Dimacuha received 1,000 bags for Barangay Sampaga.

Mayors Wilson Maralit of Balete, Nestor Natanuan of Talisay and Lyndon Bruce of Laurel each received 500 bags for their respective towns.

The collaboration among the organizations and local leaders underscored their strong commitment to supporting communities during times of crisis. Julie Ann Lope

Julie Ann Lope

Leaders from the Fujian Overseas Chinese community across more than 100 countries attend the 11th World Fujian Convention.

The Manila Chinatown Charity Foundation celebrated its 38th anniversary on November 9, 2024 at the Century Seafood Restaurant.

Vege Select in Binondo, Manila offers vegetarian cuisine.

Officials of the Philippine Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PCCCII), the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and the Philippine Chinese Chamber of Commerce Batangas Chapter, donate 6,000 bags of rice to Typhoon Kristine victims in Batangas.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024 lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

By Nickie Wang

WSHOWBIZ

Andres Muhlach, Andre Yllana bring humor to ‘Mutya ng Section E’

Andres Muhlach takes on the role of Section E class president Mark Keifer Watson in ‘Mutya ng Section E’

E WONDER how the parents of Andre Yllana and Andres Muhlach reacted to a lighthearted remark made during a media interview about their working relationship. The two young actors, cast together for the first time, star in the youth-oriented Viva One digital series Mutya ng Section E.

Andre’s mother, Aiko Melendez, and Andres’ parents, Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales, likely found humor in Andre’s playful response during a media conference. When asked about his rapport with his co-star on the Wattpad series’ 16-episode adaptation, Andre joked, “He almost became my brother—just kidding.” The response brought laughter to the crowd at Viva Café. For a little showbiz history, the young actor was alluding to Aga and Aiko’s past relationship.

Andre shared that his mother, Aiko, knew of his role alongside Andres in Mutya ng Section E. “Mom knew about it; I told her. She was actually happy when I mentioned I’d be working with Andres.” Andres, for his part, said that Aga was supportive of his collaboration with Andre. “When I told my dad I’d be working with Andre, I was excited because he knows Tita Aiko,” Andres shared. “This is my second project, and I’m grateful to work on Da Pers Family with my family and this amazing cast. When I learned about the project, I was super excited and couldn’t hide my smile.”

In Mutya ng Section E, Andres plays Mark Keifer Watson, the intelligent yet sometimes bullying class

said, “They advised me to trust myself, be confident, and believe in myself. I don’t always ask for advice; they let me figure things out on my own. When I make mistakes, that’s when I turn to them.”

As for romance, Andres said he has no plans, given his busy schedule. “I’m focusing on my work and improving my craft,” he said, adding that he enjoys acting, especially in workshops where he connects with others.

Mutya ng Section E on Viva One is based on the bestselling Wattpad series with 143 million reads and spans 16 episodes. It follows 16 rowdy guys and a fierce young woman from Section E, led by Andres, Ashtine Olviga, and Rabin Angeles. Their lives become chaotic when Jay-Jay Mariano (Olviga), a talented singer and former PPop Generation member, joins the class as the “mutya” of Section E—the lowest and most unruly section in Higher Value International School.

The cast also includes Charles Law, Frost Sandoval, Keagan De Jesus, Ethan David, Kurt Delos Reyes, Martin Venegas, Nic Galvez, Daniel Ong, AJ Ferrer, Sam Shoaf, Michael Keith, Kyosu Guinto, Yanyan De Jesus, and Derick Ong, along with Heart Ryan and senior actors Yayo Aguila, Katya Santos, Nanette Inventor, and Lander Vera Perez

last month

LIONSGATE Play is celebrating National Reading Month by training the spotlight on book-to-screen adaptations that offer a fresh cinematic take on beloved literary works. Streaming via Lionsgate on PLDT Home and Smart, these titles promise to enthrall readers and movie buffs alike.

Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)

SINGER-SONGWRITER Jel Rey explores the lingering emotions of a past relationship in his latest single, “Bumabalik Pa Rin.”

The alternative indie-pop track, written by Jel Rey, reflects the yearning to reconnect with an ex-lover and express unresolved feelings. The song was co-produced by Edsel De Guzman of Drive of Daydreams and StarPop label head Roque “Rox” Santos Jel Rey debuted as a recording artist in 2023 with his single “hele pono,” earning a nomination for Best Performance by a New Solo Artist at the 37th Awit Awards. Later that year, he released his first mini-album, TERAPEWTIKA , which included tracks like “Nasa Alapaap Ang Paraluman” and “Tayo (ating istorya).”

Last month, he dropped “Naiilang,” a song celebrating genuine friendship. Known for his adventurous writing style, Jel Rey experiments with genres like rock, hip-hop, pop, and soul. He has also gained traction on TikTok, sharing his songwriting process and performing for strangers in his viral content.

“Bumabalik Pa Rin” is now available on digital streaming platforms.

This romantic comedy follows the relatable struggles of Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger), a single woman navigating love and life. Based on Helen Fielding’s bestselling novel, the film explores Bridget’s romantic entanglements with Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant) and Mark Darcy (Colin Firth).

The Nanny Diaries (2007) Scarlett Johansson stars as Annie Braddock, a college graduate who takes a nannying job for a wealthy family. Adapted from Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus’s satirical novel, the film offers a humorous look at the eccentricities of New York’s elite.

The Hunger Games (2012)

Jennifer Lawrence leads this dystopian tale as Katniss Everdeen, a teenager fighting for survival in a deadly competition. Suzanne Collins’s bestselling trilogy comes to life in this adaptation, combining action and rebellion against tyranny.

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)

Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence team up in this dramedy about two individuals

navigating personal struggles. Based on Matthew Quick’s novel, the film highlights resilience and finding unexpected connections.

The White Princess (2017)

Set during England’s War of the Roses, this series follows Elizabeth of York (Jodie Comer) and her politically driven marriage to Henry VII (Jacob Collins-Levy). The adaptation of Philippa Gregory’s novel unpacks royal intrigue and power struggles.

Sweetbitter (2018)

This series, based on Stephanie Danler novel, chronicles Tess (Ella Purnell), a young woman entering New York’s restaurant scene. The coming-of-age story explores the chaotic yet alluring world of fine dining and city life.

Normal People (2020)

Sally Rooney’s contemporary romance gets a heartfelt adaptation in this miniseries.

Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal star as Marianne and Connell, navigating

The entire cast of ‘Mutya ng Section E’

Actress Jennifer Lawrence plays Katniss Everdeen in ‘The Hunger Games’

Month

‘The Nanny Diaries’ stars Scarlett Johansson as Annie Braddock

‘Normal People’ stars Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal

Sweetbitter is an adaptation of a novel by Stephanie Danler

The cast with director Theodore Boborol (leftmost)

The series is directed by Theodore Boborol and produced in collaboration with Wattpad WEBTOON Studios.

From left: ‘Mutya ng Section E’ stars Rabin Angeles, Ashtine Olviga, and Andres Muhlach

LIFE & SHOWBIZ

Breathe easy: Tips to keep your lungs in top shape amid rising pollution

LUNG health is increasingly critical as air pollution continues to affect Filipinos, with experts from the Manila Observatory noting that at least 100 out of every 100,000 Filipinos die annually from air pollution-related causes. With this in mind, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) has shared practical tips to help individuals protect their lungs from harmful environmental factors.

Dr. Gregorio P. Ocampo, a pulmonary medicine expert at MakatiMed, emphasizes the role of pollutants, such as vehicular emissions and industrial pollution, in respiratory diseases. “These pollutants increase the risk of respiratory infections and chronic diseases like pneumonia, bronchitis, COPD, and lung cancer,” Dr. Ocampo said.

While we cannot control outdoor pollution, MakatiMed offers solutions for improving lung health indoors. “Eliminate indoor smoking, use HEPA air purifiers, and clean air filters regularly. Pet grooming and air-purifying plants like snake plants also help,” Dr. Ocampo recommended.

Maintaining a healthy diet is also essential. Dr. Ocampo advises avoiding processed and fried foods, which can strain the lungs. Instead, he recommends consuming antioxidant-rich foods like apples, tomatoes, beets, and leafy greens to support lung function.

Exercise plays a key role in lung health as well. Aerobic activities like running and swimming enhance oxygen intake, while practices such as yoga and Pilates promote proper breathing and posture, helping individuals make full use of their lung capacity.

“Even simple deep breathing exercises can help engage the diaphragm and improve overall respiratory wellness,” Dr. Ocampo added.

Additionally, staying up to date on flu and pneumonia vaccinations is crucial for respiratory protection, particularly for individuals at higher risk, such as smokers or those exposed to secondhand smoke. MakatiMed advises regular X-rays and spirometry tests for early detection and treatment of lung conditions.

“Every breath you take matters,” Dr. Ocampo concluded, urging Filipinos to prioritize lung health in their daily lives.

Coughs and Christmas? How to handle the holiday combo

AS THE “ber” months kick off, the Philippines gears up for its longest Christmas season, with preparations already underway. Decorations are being hung, presents are being wrapped, and holiday meals are being planned. Along with this festive rush comes the inevitable stress of work deadlines, company parties, and social gatherings.

However, the last quarter of the year also brings challenges. Amid the flurry of activities, a sudden coughing fit can disrupt a lively conversation or even ruin an important meeting. A persistent cough, especially one with phlegm, can derail productivity and make socializing difficult. With so much to juggle this season, it’s the last thing anyone needs.

To keep up with the holiday hustle, it’s crucial to have reliable relief for those unexpected coughing bouts. Solmux Advance, available in tablet and liquid form, is designed to clear phlegm, bacteria, and viruses from the lungs. Its powerful formula, which combines Carbocisteine and Zinc, helps provide fast relief and boost the immune system—vital during this

season of indulgence and late nights. Zinc, a key ingredient in Solmux Advance, plays a crucial role in speeding up recovery and preventing further complications from a cough. With the holidays pushing our immune systems to the limit, this advanced formula is a timely solution to stay on top of work and social commitments.

For extra peace of mind, health influencers such as Nurse Dashbee, CK De Leon, and Chico Cruz have shared their experiences with Solmux Advance after visiting the brand’s factory. Their firsthand accounts showcase the effectiveness of the product, which promises to help users stay active during the festive season. With a busy holiday schedule ahead, it’s essential to stay healthy—eat well, manage stress, and keep Solmux Advance on hand. A strong immune system ensures you can make the most of the season’s celebrations and wrap up the year on a high note.

For more information on Solmux Advance, visit unilab.com.ph or follow the brand’s official social media pages at @solmuxph.

Beauty beyond skin deep Lovi Poe launches makeup line to celebrate uniqueness

By Angelica Villanueva

“B

EAUTY is from within.” For Lovi Poe, this is how she defines beauty, which also reflects her journey as a multi-faceted actress.

“When I see someone radiating happiness, that’s what I find beautiful,” said Lovi.

In a recent media conference, the actress shared her thoughts on beauty as she recalled her early experiences in the entertainment industry, where the pressure to conform to conventional beauty standards affected her.

“When I entered the industry, I received a lot of flack for being too dark. And, you know, that made me feel so unpretty. Imagine my first series, where to be called beautiful, they wanted to lighten my skin, paint over it, and

make me use light foundation,” she said.

As she faced the pressures of fame, she began to understand that true beauty comes from confidence and learned to embrace her own unique features. Yet, she admitted that it wasn’t always easy.

“It was very gradual. Little by little. Even to this day, I have my moments when I need to snap back to reality. Especially with social media and all the beauty standards we see every day, you have to remind yourself to embrace your unique self,” the actress explained.

This realization inspired her to dream of launching a makeup line. Recently, Lovi took a bold step by introducing Love, You by Lovi, which encourages people to remember that everyone has their own beauty and uniqueness.

what you’re going through, it’s a reminder in so many instances, in so many moments,” added Lovi.

Now that she has officially launched Love, You by Lovi, she reflected on the challenge of narrowing down the options for her line, aiming for inclusivity so that everyone feels represented and beautiful through her makeup essentials.

“It was a process—back and forth. We had a lot of products to test. It was a long journey, but with the help of the Ready, Set, Glow team, we finally found the right ones. It was hard to choose because there were so many beautiful options, but you have to pick the best ones that truly stand out. What I love about this is that it’s very inclusive of all skin tones,” she explained.

Love, You by Lovi includes five products: Me, Myself, and I Lippie, Love and Light Contour and Highlighter Stick, Skin Poetry Scented Body Shimmer, Statement Setter Brow Trio, and Heart in Bloom Cream & Powder Blush Duo.

“And that’s why we came up with Love, You. Once you bring it out from your makeup kit, I hope it serves as a reminder. You have to remind yourself that you’re beautiful for who you are,” she continued.

“It’s a love letter to yourself. No matter

Promoting inclusivity in her latest venture, Lovi shared with Manila Standard Lifestyle her belief that makeup is for everyone, regardless of gender and skin color.

“Makeup is not just a product, and it’s not made for one type of person. It’s made for everybody. I feel like it’s a form of selfexpression,” said Lovi.

Love, You by Lovi’s launch introduces the Me, Myself, and I Lippie, Love and Light Contour and Highlighter Stick, Skin

Scented Body Shimmer, Statement Setter Brow Trio, and Heart in Bloom Cream & Powder Blush Duo

Actress and Love, You by Lovi owner Lovi Poe

C4 LIFE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2024 lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer

Smiles that matter

An oral health advocate’s mission to make dental care accessible to all

Very Wang Nickie Wang

FOR Dr. Sam Valle, the founder and CEO of Awesam Smile Dental Clinic, the mission to provide accessible dental care stems from personal experience. Growing up in a modest family, Doc Sam understands the challenges many Filipinos face when it comes to prioritizing oral health.

This understanding has shaped her advocacy to make quality dental care accessible to underserved communities across the country.

“At a young age, I saw how difficult it was for families like mine to afford proper dental care,” Doc Sam shared with Manila Standard Life during the recent contract signing event with Boss Toyo at Storya Bar + Kitchen in Quezon City. “I promised myself that when I became a dentist, I would do something to help people who are in the same situation.”

This commitment is the anchor of the partnership between Awesam Smile and the social media personality, who was recently named the clinic’s brand ambassador. Together, they aim to raise awareness about dental health and bring services to those who need them most.

“With Boss Toyo on board, we’re not just expanding our reach; we’re amplifying our message. Together, we will make dental health a priority for more Filipinos,” Doc Sam added.

The collaboration kicked off with a dental mission in Happyland, Tondo, Manila, where over 40 dental professionals, led by Doc Sam, offered free dental extractions and distributed grocery items to residents. Doc Sam’s vision is also evident

in the “Balik Ngiti” campaign, which provides free dentures to selected beneficiaries, restoring both their smiles and confidence.

“Growing up in a financially constrained household taught me the importance of small acts of kindness,” Doc Sam explained. “These campaigns are my way of giving back and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to dental care.”

Boss Toyo, who shares Doc Sam’s passion for helping others, expressed his excitement about the partnership.

“I’m happy to be a part of Awesam Smile Dental Clinic. Doc Sam and I share the same goal of bringing smiles and joy to our fellow Filipinos. I’ve seen how dedicated Doc Sam’s entire team is. This partnership is more than just smiles; it’s about changing lives,” he said.

Awesam Smile Dental Clinic offers a range of services, including preventive care, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and oral surgery. But for Doc Sam, it’s not just about providing these services—it’s about ensuring that even the most marginalized communities feel seen and cared for.

One beneficiary from the dental mission in Tondo shared their gratitude: “Sa hirap ng buhay ngayon, di mo na maiisipang gumastos pa sa mga dentista e. Kaysa ipambayad dun, edi ipambibili nalang namin ng bigas at ulam.” For Doc Sam, these stories fuel her drive to expand the clinic’s reach. “Dental care should never be a luxury,” she said. “It’s a basic need, and I’ll keep working to make it available to everyone.”

Philippines plays host to Watsons’ retail milestone

By Abigail Adriatico

AS A leading health and beauty retailer, Watsons is known for its wide range of products designed to meet the needs of its customers. The brand has firmly established itself as a company committed to delivering excellent service through constant innovations that enhance the shopping experience.

With its ongoing growth over the years, Watsons has reached another significant milestone by opening its 8,000th store in the Philippines at SM Mall of Asia. To celebrate this remarkable achievement, a grand event was held on November 7, attended by international Watsons executives and featuring performances from awardwinning hip-hop dance group UPeepz and Asia’s songbird Regine Velasquez

During the celebration, Dr. Malina Ngai, the Group CEO of AS Watson Group, expressed her excitement about the

retailer’s expansion.

“The Philippines has been chosen for this momentous occasion because it is one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia and a strategic market for AS Watson. This vibrant market, with its young demographic, is increasingly focused on health and beauty, which aligns perfectly with Watsons’ expertise,” said Ngai.

The 8,000th store features a design aimed at enhancing the shopping experience for customers. It has a spacious layout with various zones, such as the Premium Beauty Zone, which includes a skin analyzer and exclusive skincare brands, and the Sustainable Choices Zone, showcasing Watsons’ wide range of sustainable products along with a refill station for some Naturals by Watsons items.

Notably, Watsons Philippines has been implementing its Offline plus Online (O+O) shopping experience, which the store continues to foster with its Click & Collect service. This allows customers to order online and pick up their purchases in-store within 30 minutes, in addition to several self-checkout counters. Another innovation enhancing the shopping experience is an online Health Supplement Advisor and personalized health consultations with pharmacists via chat.

“Watsons operates over 1,100 stores in

the Philippines, and we’re thrilled that the opening of Watsons’ 8,000th store in Asia is happening here,” said Watsons Philippines Managing Director Danilo Chiong

“This achievement highlights our commitment to providing the best health and beauty products and services, both offline and online. We look forward to continuing to offer an exceptional O+O shopping experience to help our customers Look Good, Do Good, and Feel Great,” he added.

Ngai further emphasized how the retailer’s milestone enables its products and services to reach more consumers.

“8,000 represents a vast network that makes our products and services more accessible to customers everywhere. Combined with our O+O model, we are committed to serving the community anytime, anywhere,” said Ngai.

With each new store creating more jobs and strengthening customer loyalty and brand trust, Ngai expressed her gratitude to the Watsons team across Asia that made this milestone possible.

“To reach 8,000 stores in Asia, we have over 55,000 colleagues across the region, who uphold the Watsons brand and serve our customers. Without their support, it would not have been possible to achieve this milestone,” Ngai concluded.

Dr. Sam Valle with dental health professionals during the dental mission in Happyland, Tondo, Manila

From left: Managing Director of Watsons