US troops in other WPS areas?
Under consideration by DND—PH ambassador to US
US TROOPS may be put on standby mode in other areas in the West Philippine Sea, Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Romualdez said.
In an interview with GMA News Online, Romualdez said the forward deployment is “still under consideration by the Department of National Defense.”
By Rio N. Araja
TThis followed the revelation by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III of the existence of a US Task Force Ayungin amid persistent geopolitical tensions involving the West Philippine Sea. There are at least two sites – Antonio Bautista Airbase and Balabac –under the US-PH Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement in Palawan, which faces directly onto the West Philippine Sea Romualdez said the creation of the US task force was part of the Visiting Forces Agreement and the Mutual Defense Treaty between Manila and Washington.
HE Philippine National Police (PNP) is reopening its investigation into the 2020 murder of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.
The task force's creation underscores the strategic significance of Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas), where the rotation and resupply missions (RoRe) of the Philippine Coast Guard are implemented for the BRP Sierra Madre grounded on the shoal.
SURVEYING 'PEPITO'S DAMAGE. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. conducts an aerial inspection of the municipalities of Diadi, Bagabag, Solano, Bayombong, and Bambang in Nueva Vizcaya to assess the extent of damage caused by Super Typhoon Pepito and address other needs in the province. Inset at upper left shows the destroyed portion of the Bambang Bypass Road which the President ordered to be immediately rehabilitated. Lower left photo shows the President handing out food packs to residents affected by 'Pepito' in Nueva Vizcaya. PCO
The submerged reef lies about 200 kilometers from Palawan, which makes it legally part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
China claims the shoal despite its more than 1,000 kilometers distance from its nearest major landmass, Hainan island.
On Sunday, PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil said he ordered the reopening of the cold case after whistleblower Police Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza told the House Quad Committee that he helped carry out the killing at the behest of ex-PCSO general manager Royina Garma.
Pentagon spokesman Maj. Pete Nguyen said: “The task force is composed of US forces providing our Philippines allies with enhanced cooperation and interoperability for their maritime operations.”
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.
The whistleblower also implicated incumbent National Police Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo in the planning of the murder.
Barayuga was a retired police general and lawyer who supposedly threatened to expose corruption within the PCSO shortly before he was shot dead in Mandaluyong City.
Garma, herself an ex-police Lt. Colonel, allegedly gained the top spot at the PCSO because of her in-
PRESIDENT Marcos has expressed openness to postponing the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) elections scheduled on May 12, 2025, saying the proposal is currently being studied.
The President’s statement came
P171 million in standby fund is also available for utilization 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
amid calls to put off the elections by at least one year, to allow stakeholders to resolve legal issues and better educate voters on the implications of greater autonomy. '' We are still studying it [postponement]. Some of the local officials are saying that because of the Supreme
THE legal counsel of Chinese businessman Tony Yang sought to disparage lawmakers’ conclusions about his client’s supposedly sketchy past and his alleged ties with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs) and even
By Darwin Amojelar
TRANSPORTATION Secretary Jaime Bautista denied an online news report claiming that Malacañang was angry with the increase in airport fees without the approval of the Cabinet members.
Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry
adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Court (SC) decision to separate Sulu from BARMM… this comes with implications regarding changes that must be made. So, it may not be feasible to hold it by May of next year,'' Mr. Marcos told reporters in a mixture of Filipino and English.
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.
Speaker extols Bagong Pilipinas; defends AKAP
By Maricel V. Cruz
On Friday, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga and Deputy Speaker David Suarez of Quezon presented a matrix showing Yang’s first appearance and his subsequent activities at the Quad Comm hearing.
“We saw a pattern, and we tracked it to the top of these corporations... we stripped it of its layers , to get to the top and through it all, we have discovered and identified at least two main actors or players in the issue
The Province of Samar is playing host to the final installment of President Marcos’ flagship ‘Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF)’ this year, an initiative that aims to bring government services directly to the people.
The two-day event currently taking place at the Northwest Samar State University in Calbayog City, is expected to deliver over P700 million worth of programs, services, and financial
Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal
By Rex Espiritu
Sara bid to join detained staff junked
By Maricel V. 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.
THE House Blue Ribbon panel, formally known as the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, rejected Vice President Sara Duterte’s request to join
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
THE Philippine Navy debunked on Sunday the recent announcement 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 -
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.
“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.
By Alena Mae S. Flores
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 -
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.
Among the companies implicated are Brickhartz Technology Inc. and Xionwei Technology Co. Ltd., which are being linked to alleged kidnapping.
By Charles Dantes
PRESIDENT Marcos on Friday barnstormed across Nueva Vizcaya, Isabela and Pangasinan provinces to check on the progress of relief operations and assess damage to infrastructure caused by a recent barrage of typhoons.
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.
In Nueva Vizcaya, the President announced an initial P50 million from the Office of the President (OP) to aid recovery efforts in the region.
Additionally, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) allocated P2.5 million for its Assistance to Individuals in
Situations (AICS) program, which will provide P5,000 in cash assistance to 500 beneficiaries. "We’re here to ensure that supplies are sufficient and distribution is efficient," Mr. Marcos told storm-weary residents. Apart from the aid distribution,
Romualdez is joined by
Sharee Ann Tan (to his right), 1st District Rep. Stephen James Tan,
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.
BAUTISTA
Remulla appoints Aberin as new NCRPO Chief
From A1
“US forces have decades of close partnership with the Philippines. This task force is a continuation of that longstanding relationship in support of our shared security interests,” Nguyen added.
National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año said the task force has no "direct participation" in resup-
Palace...
From A1
The President pointed out that because Sulu is no longer part of the region, there is a need to work on the new Local Government Code, Administrative Code, and Electoral Code.
“We didn’t anticipate many of the unintended consequences of the Supreme Court decision. As much as pos-
brother, Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte, after she visited Lopez, said House of Representatives Sergeant at Arms Napoleon Taas.
Taas said the House personnel repeatedly requested the Vice President and her party to leave Batasang Pambansa, but the second highest ranking official of the land defied the appeal from House security personnel.
Duterte remains in Batasang Pambansa as of this writing.
Meanwhile, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales, Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe and Deputy Speaker David Suarez expressed grave concern over Duterte for defying the House rules.
"The House of Congress is gravely concerned about what happened on November 21, 2024, where Vice President Sara Duterte visited our building.
"We opened the door for her out of courtesy by giving her special permission to visit Atty. Zuleika Lopez, who is currently in our custody, even beyond regular visiting hours," they said "But after the visiting hours ended at 10:00 p.m., she refused to leave. Instead, she went to the office of her brother Rep. Paolo Duterte and locked herself
Speaker...
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aid to more than 60,000 beneficiaries, reaffirming its significance as a critical mechanism for public service delivery.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez, the primary proponent of the BPSF, underscored the importance of the program in reaching underserved communities.
“This is our continued response to the desire of our President Marcos to bring
ply missions to Ayungin and only provides support to the operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
“They are providing support to us, for example, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and maritime domain awareness. They help by giving information,” he said.
“On actual direct participation, (the resupply mission) is purely and solely a Philippine forces operation— the (Western Command) supported by the (Philippine Coast Guard),”
sible, we want to hold it [on schedule].
However, if this isn’t feasible, then it would be better to postpone it [elections] to avoid confusion,” he added. In September this year, the SC declared the Sulu province not part of the BARMM after it rejected the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law. Meanwhile, Senate President Francis Escudero recently filed a bill to postpone the first regular elections in the BARMM to May 11, 2026.
there," the three House leaders said in a joint statement in Filipino.
The lawmakers expressed dismay that Duterte, who should have set an example as being the second highest ranking public official of the land, defied the appeal from the House' Sergeant-atArms to leave the premises immediately after her visit to Lopez, but the appeal fell on deaf ears and instead, she defied the House rules.
"We want to remind everyone, especially government officials, that we have rules and protocols that we follow in the Bigger House to ensure security and order. It is not violated lightly, no matter who the person is. When they are not followed, it is as if we have broken the respect for the institution that serves the people," the statement from the House leaders stated.
"The House of the People is for all Filipinos. This is not a place to abuse or make personal space, no matter who you are. If there is no respect for simple rules, how can we trust that they will be able to respect the greater responsibilities that the people have entrusted to them?
"We will ensure that such an incident does not happen again. We will further strengthen the policies, ensure they are enforced equitably, and protect the integrity of our institution," the House leaders said.
government services closer to our countrymen. It's not just a program; it is a symbol of the sincere service and unity of the government and the people,” he said.
The Samar leg of the BPSF saw the participation of 62 national government agencies and 63 House Representatives members, offering over 255 services.
The event allocated P400 million in cash assistance, which was distributed to pre-identified beneficiaries across the province.
“This event represents our commitment to bringing concrete, tangible so-
Año added. Meanwhile, Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros expressed her support for the task force.
“The establishment of the Ayungin Task Force is a welcome development. It enhances the peaceful, nonviolent, and effective strategies that the Philippines is developing through political and diplomatic actions to assert and promote our victory in The Hague,” Hontiveros said.
She said more countries are align-
“This was filed upon the request of the Palace because of recent developments… some developments took place these past weeks and months. Among them is the Supreme Court decision that, up to now, is not yet final,” Escudero explained in Filipino. Under the Bangsamoro Electoral Code, seven of the 80 parliament seats are allocated to Sulu.
ing with the Philippines, with the US already participating, alongside other nations in the ASEAN region, the broader Asia-Pacific area, and even in other regions of the world.
“I am also looking forward to joint patrols involving our navies and our Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), along with agriculture departments or ministries, to firmly assert that the rule of law should prevail at sea,” Hontiveros said.
The Commission on Elections earlier said 109 aspirants had filed their certificates of candidacy for the BARMM elections.
Marcos...
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the chief executive also directed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to prioritize the rehabilitation of the Bambang Bypass Road, which sustained an estimated P15.5 million worth of damage from Super Typhoon Pepito.
The bypass road suffered damage in two key sections, threatening its structural integrity.
He instructed DPWH Secretary Manny Bonoan to assess the situation and create a robust rehabilitation plan, emphasizing the importance of immediately restoring the crucial bypass road.
"We have seen the extent of the damage, particularly in flood control structures, and Secretary Bonoan is working on a plan to strengthen these so they can withstand future typhoons," Mr. Marcos said.
Nueva Vizcaya has been hit hard by recent typhoons, with 77 road sections and 32 bridges affected across the province.
The president also stressed the need for sustained government support for affected families, especially those displaced or in evacuation centers.
Typhoon Pepito, part of a series of storms dubbed “KLMNOP,” caused
lutions to the everyday challenges faced by our constituents,” Romualdez added. Among the key activities were payouts conducted by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), amounting to P300 million and reaching over 20,000 individuals.
Scholarships from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) benefited numerous students, while livelihood
By Vince Lopez
DEPARTMENT of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla named Police Brigadier General Anthony Aberin as the new head of the Philippine National Police (PNP) National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).
The DILG made the announcement in a social media post on Friday, November 22. The agency congratulated the newly-appointed NCRPO chief, who will be transferring from the PNP Central Visayas office. Aberin will replace Police Major General Sidney Hernia, who was placed under administrative relief for 10 days—November 7 to 22—following allegations of extortion. Remulla also confirmed the designation of Aberin as the new NCRPO chief in a recent dzBB report.
NCRPO Public Information Office chief Police Major Myrna Diploma said an official statement shall be released by the PNP National Headquarters regarding this development and the new assignment for Hernia. Aberin was appointed as the Central Visayas Police chief on March 20, 2023.
However, despite Malacañang’s ongoing review, the SC said parliamentary elections in the BARMM cannot be deferred.
"The SC ruling on BARMM shall take effect immediately. 'Immediately executory' means that the decision should be fully implemented despite the pending motion for reconsideration," SC spokesperson Camille Sue Mae Ting recently said. Charles Dantes
extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and crops.
To aid recovery, the government also provided food packs, cash assistance, and agricultural supplies, including seedlings and fertilizers, to help farmers recover.
The chief executive acknowledged the contributions of the private sector in relief efforts, expressing gratitude for their support.
"We are grateful for the compassion of businesses who continue to help our people during these challenging times," he said.
Later on Monday, the President flew to Isabela where he praised the resilience of residents who have endured six consecutive typhoons this year.
During his brief visit, Mr. Marcos distributed Certificates of Land Ownership Awards (CLOAs) and Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROMs) to local beneficiaries.
"We recognize the perseverance of our countrymen here in Isabela and across the nation who are striving to recover from the devastation caused by successive typhoons," Mr. Marcos told gathered residents.
The President assured them that the government remains committed to the rehabilitation of typhoon-hit areas, highlighting farmers as a key priority of his administration.
assistance programs supported various sectors. In-kind aid worth P316 million was distributed during the event, including 110,000 kilograms of rice, alongside social services, health programs, agricultural aid, and regulatory services.
The local hosting of the event was spearheaded by Governor Sharee Ann Tan, Samar 1st District Representative Stephen James Tan and Samar 2nd District Representative Reynolds Michael Tan, in collaboration with the Calbayog City Government.
Russia... From A1
based on the four-day trading in the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) and various developments in the international oil market, “we will be expecting an increase in the domestic pump price next week.”
Romero said the price of gasoline could increase from P0.70 to P0.90 per liter, diesel from P0.70 to P1 per liter and kerosene from P0.60 to P0.70 per liter.
“These adjustments are attributed to the escalating geopolitical situation around Russia continuing to dominate sentiment; Russia’s oil refinery business are at risk of plant closure amid heavy losses and lower production and news of oil production outage in Norway,” Romero said.
Meanwhile, Jetti Petroleum president Leo Bellas confirmed the possible oil price hike next week based on the movement of MOPS and foreign exchange.
Bellas forecasted a slightly higher price hike of P0.85 to P1.05 per liter for gasoline and P0.80 to P1 for diesel due to “supply concerns triggered by escalating geopolitical tensions (use by Ukraine of Western weapons striking Russian territory and energy infrastructures).”
He said worries of an oversupplied market in the coming months limited gains.
On Nov. 19, the oil firms cut pump prices by P0.85 per liter for gasoline, P0.75 per liter for diesel and P0.90 per liter for kerosene. Year to date, total adjustment for gasoline and diesel stands at a net increase of P11 per liter and P10.15 per liter, respectively. On the other hand, kerosene has a net decrease of P0.50 per
SUMBINGTIK FESTIVAL. Residents of Barangay Sto. Nino in Cainta, Rizal creatively decorate their homes with local delicacies as part of the annual SumBingTik Festival that started yesterday. SumBingTik, which stands for Suman, Bibingka, and Latik, is an annual week-long town cultural festival that is held from November 24 to December 1. Jann Conrad Bonifacio
Newly-appointed NCRPO Chief PBGen. Anthony Aberin PNP Central Visayas
IN BRIEF
Four new mpox cases logged in Region IV-A
THE Department of Health has bared four new cases of monkeypox (mpox) recorded in Region IV-A (Calabarzon), bringing to 13 the total number of mpox infections in the region.
According to the DOH, the latest patients , aged 24 to 66, began experiencing symptoms in earlier this month.
Two of the patients are males from Rizal while the other two—one male and one female—are from Laguna.
The three male patients are currently in home isolation.
Meanwhile, the 66-year-old female patient was hospitalized, but has reportedly recovered.
The DOH-Center for Health Development Calabarzon Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit gave assurance it is closely monitoring the situation.
BI halts trafficking victim with fake docs
BUREAU of Immigration (BI) agents have intercepted a suspected female trafficking victim who attempted to leave the country using a fake Commission on Filipino Overseas (CFO) certificate at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
The 20-year-old passenger, whose name was withheld in compliance with anti-trafficking laws, tried to depart Manila for Nagoya, Japan, according to Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.
The woman claimed she is going to Japan to visit her purported husband, a Japanese national, but presented a dubious CFO certificate.
Immigration officers found discrepancies in the certificate that prompted immediate verification through the BI-CFO joint system. Vito Barcelo
Abalos insists Quiboloy arrest ‘part of the job’
By Pot Chavez
FORMER Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. on Friday filed his counter-affidavit at the Department of Justice (DOJ) in response to the complaints filed by former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Duterte, who serves as Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) property administrator, filed two counts of malicious mischief in connection with the arrest of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy by the Philippine National Police (PNP).
"If we did not do what we were
supposed to do, Pastor Quiboloy would not have been arrested yet... That is part of the job, we accepted your position. I knew that this would happen and that there would be lawsuits," Abalos told reporters in Filipino. He maintained that the operations
were legal and that the police did not violate anything in arresting the religious leader.
"If they had given in to fear, he would not have been arrested to face the charges," added Abalos, who stepped down from the DILG post after filing his senatorial candidacy.
He thanked President Marcos for his "trust and guidance" that was extended to them during the arrest of Quiboloy.
Aside from Abalos, similar charges were also lodged against PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil.
Court allows Quiboloy longer medical furlough
By Vince Lopez
KINGDOM of Jesus Christ (KOJC) founder and leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy has asked the Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) for an extension of his medical furlough citing as reason dental infection which needs medical attention.
Quiboloy’s legal counsel, Israelito Torreon told reporters that his client had a jaw infection following dental implant operations.
The KOJC leader was being tried by the Pasig RTC Branch 159 in connection with the qualified human trafficking case filed against him and a co-respondent.
“We requested for an extension of medical furlough because there are matters that have to be addressed too with respect to his dental operation, which affected his jaw. His dental implants have an infection,” Torreon said.
“It was approved until Wednesday. It was a long discussion, but it was approved. There will be medical furlough for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy,” the lawyer said.
Torreon refused to disclose further details, citing the ongoing trial of the case.
The Philippine National Police is yet to comment on the decision of Pasig RTC to extend Quiboloy’s medical furlough.
It was learned that Quiboloy returned to his detention cell in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Nov. 16 after his medical furlough when he was taken to the Philippine Heart Center after complaining of “chest tightness and irregular heart beat.”
PROTEST ACTION.
Health workers and professionals, patients and students hold a protest in front of the Philippine General Hospital in Manila on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024, to air concern over what they fear would be its privatization. Norman Cruz
DSWD halts GL issuance amid audit
By Maricel V. Cruz
THE Department of Social Welfare and Development will temporarily suspend the issuance of guarantee letters (GLs) under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program.
The pause in GL issuances would facilitate the annual liquidation process and complete the payments to service providers who have already assisted beneficiaries.
“We have issued guidance to our Field Offices to observe the last day of issuance of the guarantee letter,
IN BRIEF
4 PH universities open doors to Myanmar refugees
REFUGEES and students affected by armed conflict in Myanmar may now continue their studies in the Philippines.
Through the support of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the University of the Philippines-Los Baños, Batangas State University, Lyceum of the Philippines University-Batangas, and Saint Louis University Baguio opened their doors for Myanmar students to study agriculture, engineering, hospitality management, and education.
The participating higher education institutes signed a memorandum of understanding with the Institute of International Education, the contractor for the Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship Program (DISP) funded by USAID.
BatSU accepted eleven scholars from Myanmar who are taking Master of Science in Data Science (MSDS), and Bachelor degrees in civil engineering, computer engineering, and electrical engineering. Ralph Harvey Rirao
BuCor: No using of social media during office hours
THE Bureau of Corrections barred its officers and staff from accessing all social media platforms within all its facilities to enhance security and maintain professionalism.
The socmed ban was issued by Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. following the announcement of a no-cellphone policy on Nov. 19 to minimize potential distractions and protect the integrity of operations within correctional institutions.
“All personnel are permitted to use official BuCor emails, such as Gmail or Yahoo, thereby ensuring that essential correspondence can continue while upholding the institution’s standards and security protocols,” the memo read.
Catapang instructed all superintendents, directors of operating prisons, and heads of offices to ensure adherence to the prohibitions.
Driving Economic Growth: RTWPB MIMAROPA Engages Stakeholders on Wage Order and Productivity Incentives
The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) MIMAROPA, in collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Trade and Industry, and other key partners, recently held region-wide consultations to discuss the new wage order and the implementation of productivity-based incentives for select industries. These consultations provided updates on wage orders, highlighted productivity improvement programs, and reviewed the impact of Wage Advisory No. 01, Series of 2014, on tourism-related businesses. Business leaders and industry associations engaged in discussions and workshops, expressing strong support for RTWPB’s initiatives and pledging to promote productivity enhancement and gainsharing schemes to drive regional economic growth.
which should not be later than December 13,” DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said.
Dumlao clarified that the suspension of the GL will not impact the provision of AICS assistance to clients in crisis.
Those in need can still access cash assistance for services amounting to P10,000 or less, she said.
“The DSWD will still assist the AICS clients in the form of cash worth P10,000 and below. Next year,
once we have settled all obligation requests and disbursement vouchers, we could resume with the issuance of the GL,” Dumlao added.
She said the agency would suspend its offsite payouts to focus on finalizing financial requirements.
“Any offsite or the one where we conduct the payout in the covered court or in the barangay hall, that will be stopped first. So we encourage our clients to visit our Satellite Offices or Field Offices,” she said.
SC okays rules for lawyers to render free legal service
By Pot Chavez
THE Supreme Court on Friday said it approved the rules on Unified Legal Aid Service (ULAS Rules) which mandates covered lawyers to render at least 60 hours of pro bono legal aid every three years in favor of indigent Filipinos.
“Under the ULAS Rules, any person who has no sufficient means to afford adequate legal services, as assessed by a covered lawyer in accordance with guidelines to be issued by the ULAS Board, may be a qualified beneficiary entitled to pro bono legal services. The legal service itself will be free for such qualified beneficiaries and the necessary expenses for the rendering of the service will be borne by the Court thru the ULAS Fund, which will be set up for this purpose,” the SC said in a statement. It added the qualified beneficiary shall be exempt from payment of docket and other fees.
Pro bono legal aid services can come in many forms, such as representation in court, legal counselling, drafting legal documents, developmental legal assistance, and participation in accredited legal outreach programs.
The High Tribunal explained the ULAS Rules allows lawyers to extend financial contributions going directly and exclusively to the ULAS Fund which will cover reasonable expenses of lawyers in performing pro bono legal aid services.
Nafarrete is new WestMinCom commander
By Rex Espiritu
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines installed Maj. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete as the new head of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom).
In a change of command and retirement ceremony at Camp Navarro in Zamboanga City, outgoing commander Lt. Gen. Wil-
liam Gonzalez officially relinquished his position to Nafarrete. Gonzales, the 18th commander of WestMinCom, was recognized for his exceptional contributions, which included fostering excellence among his troops and advancing the command’s operational success.
In his valedictory address, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the men and women
of WestMinCom, whom he described as the true strength of the institution.
Nafarrete, formerly the commander of the 6th Infantry Division, said he assumes his new role with a forward-looking vision. He expressed his commitment to continuing the legacy of excellence established by his predecessor and leading the command to new heights of accomplishment.
By Roy Tomandao
OFFICIALS of San Pablo City in Laguna were recognized during the Gawad Sinag 2024 awarding ceremony held on November 21, 2024 at the SPC Convention Center. The said program is conducted annually to recognize and honor outstanding partners of the Department of Education in its projects and programs.
Those who were given special recognition included Rep. Loreto “Amben”
OPINION
Can we achieve rice self-sufficiency?
YOU would think that the Philippines would be producing enough rice on its own since this is our staple food. Why so? Because we are a predominantly agricultural country with a large number of our people living in the rural areas and supporting themselves through agricultural activities.
In fact, about a quarter of employed Filipinos work in the agricultural sector which is made up of four sub-sectors: farming, fisheries, livestock, and forestry. As of 2022, the sector generated a gross value added (GVA) of about 1.78 trillion Philippine pesos, equivalent to about 8.9 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.
But the stark reality is that we are among the biggest importers of rice in the world, relying on countries such as Vietnam and Thailand for enough supplies for our own needs.
Hence, the Philippines may reach new record overseas rice purchases until next year as it tries to meet an increasing demand for this staple food from a growing population. The US Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS) estimates our rice imports could reach 5 million metric tons (MT) this year, up by 6.4 percent from its previous estimate of 4.7 million MT. Vietnam supplied nearly 80 percent of the total with 2.98 million MT, followed by Thailand with 470,273.28 MT and Pakistan with 175,174.48 MT.
According to our Department of Agriculture, rice imports could hit a new record of 4.2 million MT by the end of this year following substantial losses from typhoons and the El Niño dry spell. The agency projects rice purchases from abroad to reach at least 400,000 MT in the last two months of 2024, depending on world market pricing. Expanded imports from neighboring Cambodia have allowed Vietnam to boost its exports to meet strong foreign demand.
Per Executive Order No. 62 signed by President Marcos in June this year, rice tariff rates would stay at a lower 15 percent, from the previous 35 percent, until 2028. The reduced tariffs have provided an attractive incentive for traders to bring imported rice into the country. Based on data from the Bureau of Plant Industry, the volume of imported rice that entered the country as of Oct. 30 totaling 3.79 million MT had already surpassed 2023’s 3.6 million MT.
This year, from January to early November, the country imported 3.896 million MT of rice, with nearly 80 percent coming from Vietnam. It already breached the recordhigh import volume of 3.83 million MT in 2022 and surpassed last year’s figure of 3.6 million MT. But why does the Philippines have to im-
port rice?
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) offers several answers. The Philippines is a rice importer because it is a nation of islands without any major river deltas similar to those in Thailand and Vietnam. The major traditional exporters are all on the Southeast Asian mainland— Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar— while the countries that have been consistently importing rice for more than a hundred years—Indonesia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Japan, Korea, and Malaysia—are all islands or narrow peninsulas. Thailand, for instance, has four times the arable land per person versus the Philippines.
IRRI believes that the loss of agricultural land to urbanization cannot be cited as a reason for the trend towards more rice imports as its effects are small and are more than offset by cropland expansion elsewhere.
—“—
IRRI says we must invest in agricultural research and transportation infrastructure.
The research institute debunks the notion that we import rice because Filipino farmers are backward and cannot produce rice efficiently. IRRI says that surveys of farmers in the various rice bowls of Asia have found that Filipino farmers are among the leaders in reducing pesticide use, and have progressed further in mechanizing land preparation and postharvest operations than their counterparts in any other developing Asian country except Thailand.
IRRI clarifies that rice importation is not a relatively recent phenomenon as the Philippines has been importing rice almost every year since 1869.
There’s another important reason why we are a net importer of rice. The Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. We get hit by around 20 or so typhoons every year, which, according to IRRI, makes rice production riskier and difficult. It’s another geography-related issue that countries like Thailand don’t have to deal with as much.
So what’s the best way to reduce rice imports? IRRI says that to sustainably increase rice production, we must invest in agricultural research and transportation infrastructure, thereby providing farmers with more and better options in both production and marketing.
(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)
The dangers of counterfeit vapes
By Dennis Liu
tronic cigarettes and other vape products as they might cause severe health risks. “E-cigarettes and vaping are not a safe alternative to smoking. Usok pa rin ‘yan,” Health Secretary Herbosa was quoted as saying in a statement. In issuing the warning, Herbosa specifically cited the case documented by Dr. Margarita Isabel Fernandez and published in the Respirology Case Reports Journal.
It was about a 22-year-old Filipino male with no prior health issues who reportedly suffered a fatal heart attack, following severe lung injury, possibly attributed to his daily vape use. Fernandez said the patient developed a serious lung condition which she coined as ecigarette or vaping-use associated lung injury (EVALI).
To recall, Herbosa in March this year also asked the help of the Philippine National Police to ensure that the specific provision of the Republic Act (RA) 11900 relating to the prohibition of selling vapes to people below 18 years old is strictly implemented.
Fake Vapes
That case of a young man who apparently died while using a counterfeit vape product should prod our authorities all the more, to run after and prosecute those traders who were smuggling counterfeit vapes into the country. RA 11900, which was enacted into law in 2022, was designed to regulate the importation, sale, packaging, distribution, use, and communication of vaporized nicotine and nonnicotine products and novel tobacco products which includes e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products.
EDITORIAL
Has the OVP become a den of thieves?
WHO could be the officials and staff in the Office of the Vice President (OVP) who signed acknowledgment receipts (ARs) for confidential funds amounting to millions of pesos under the name of ‘Mary Grace Piattos’ and other obviously fictitious names?
lar restaurant while ‘Piattos’ is a potato chips brand. These people also used other aliases. They were probably laughing out loud and giving each other high fives while signing the ARs for millions of pesos.
Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales 1st District Rep. Jay Khonghun and Deputy Majority Leader and La Union 1st District Rep. Paolo Ortega V announced the P1-million bounty recently. This should help unravel the mystery behind this scam in the second highest executive office.
In the digital presentation during the hearing of the House committee, led by Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua, a document in one slide was shown indicating a signed AR bearing such name (with a signature) and with a Dec. 30 date, receiving payment as reward. Rep. Ortega flagged the recurring fictitious names and repetitive handwriting on the receipts. It’s about time, he said, for those responsible for the fake names to surface and explain the circumstances behind the obvious scam.
As China continues its high-pressure crackdown on production and sale of illegal vapes, more and more manufacturers are beginning to seek overseas orders, especially in Southeast Asian markets.
And among these countries is the Philippines which has one of the fastest growing markets in Asia.
$2-B Market
Data shows that, between 2019 and 2023, the sales volume of the vape market in the Philippines has grown rapidly to about US$2 billion.
It is imperative that everyone in the vape industry must comply with the requirements of the law.
According to a study, more than 50 million illegal vapes made their way into the Philippine market in the first half of 2024 alone, spearheaded by brands such as SHFT, Flare (formerly Flava), Aerogin and Black Elite. Together, they reportedly dump more than 10 million illegal vapes into the Philippine market every month.
These subpar vape products, which have not been legally certified, are flooding the market at an alarming rate, seriously threatening the health of consumers.
Among these products that have evaded due legal supervision, more than 90% have not been tested as required.
Their unknown composition of various raw materials and the content of added ingredients
As a relatively “safer” alternative to traditional tobacco, vapes were designed to help people reduce their dependence on nicotine and make it easier for smokers to quit smoking. However, with the rapid development of the vape market in recent years, especially the proliferation of illegal and inferior vapes, this original intention can’t be realized without overcoming severe challenges.
That’s the P125-million question that the House committee on good government and public accountability committee would like to answer pronto. They have even put up a P1-million bounty for information leading to the identification of those who had likely used aliases to hide the crime of brazen theft of taxpayers’ money.
‘Mary Grace’ is the name of a popu-
pose a serious threat to the health of users.
It was gathered that as of the end of August, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) has already seized P6.5 billion worth of illegal vape products, mostly from China, according to Customs Intelligence Division Chief Leon P. Mogao. For his part, Minimal Government Thinkers President Bienvenido S. Oplas, Jr. said that the government loses around P5 billion yearly from illicit vape products.
Their group expects the situation to worsen in the coming months amid the emergence of various forms of smuggling.
Oplas added the government could lose around P10 billion in taxes every year due to smuggling of fake vape products.
To avert the smuggling of illegal and fake vape products, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. has instructed his people all over the country to launch a crackdown against suspected illegal suppliers.
Lumagui said: “The illicit vape industry has been repeatedly warned to comply with BIR regulations. Despite multiple chances, they refuse to follow the law. The BIR will proceed with the full deployment of enforcement activities against illicit vape retailers and resellers. Expect regular raids. Expect criminal cases (to be filed).”
The National Bureau of Investigation must step in.
Earlier, Antipolo 2nd District Rep. Romeo Acop had asked an official of the Commission on Audit’s intelligence and confidential funds audit office if she was aware that among the signatories of checks for millions in the OVP’s confidential funds bore the name of ‘Mary Grace Piattos’, pointing out that the name sounded spurious.
Reverse Effects According to a study, after long-term use of illegal and fake vape products, the harmful substances within would lead to chronic respiratory diseases, heart disease, and even lung cancer and other acute health problems. What is more worrying is that illegal and inferior vapes not only pose a direct threat to the health of users, but may also lead to reverse effects, making it harder to quit smoking. Users who try to quit smoking would return to traditional tobacco, increasing the risk of smoking and more serious health conditions among users.
Health Hazards
The specific health hazards of the regular use of illegal vape products include respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, poisoning, cancer risk, acute lung injury and addiction.
In the face of all these, the Philippine government has taken a series of measures, such as strengthening market supervision and legislative management. However, as these illegal brands operate and circulate their products in a covert way, and with support from the political “umbrella” behind them, it is difficult to completely eradicate their smuggling. According to data from the Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines, as of
For the lawmakers, the P1-million bounty underscores the importance of resolving the issue and ensuring accountability in government spending. The ARs presented to the COA and the Quad Committee bore not just similar handwriting, the same color of ballpens and the same set of signatories. There were a total of 776 ARs, 302 of which bore “unreadable names,” with five “repeated names”, according to the lawmakers who examined the documents.
Given the scale of what appears to be large-scale embezzlement of taxpayer’s money at the OVP, shouldn’t the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) be asked to conduct a thorough probe of the matter and file the necessary charges against those who perpetrated the crime?
October 2024, the government has investigated and raided 506 illegal vape retailers and resellers, but most black-market transactions are still booming as new illegal brands spring up. SafeVape PH It is good that some groups like SafeVape PH are
This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: “A person with a small umbrella labelled “Ayuda” sits on a small boat while the waves are churning. The sky is dark and windy.”
AI firms seek accords with publishing giants
PARIS -—Publishing giants and generative artificial intelligence companies are striking deals that aim to both protect copyright and provide for the rapidly increasing needs of the AI industry.
US publishing giant HarperCollins has reached a contract with an unnamed tech company allowing it to use some of its books to train its generative AI models.
In a letter seen by AFP, the tech company is proposing a payment of $2,500 per selected book to train its so-called large language model (LLM) for up to three years.
AI models need massive quantities of texts to train their everyday language use.
“HarperCollins has reached an agreement with an artificial intelligence technology company to allow limited use of select nonfiction backlist titles for training AI models to improve model quality and performance,” the publisher said in a statement.
It said the agreement has “limited scope and clear guardrails around model output that respects author’s rights.”
Authors “have the choice to opt in to the agreement or to pass on the opportu-
nity”, it added. The offer has had a mixed reception in the publishing world, with writers such as Daniel Kibblesmith curtly declining.
“I’d probably do it for a billion dollars. I’d do it for a sum of money that wouldn’t require me to work anymore, since that’s the ultimate goal of this technology,” the author posted on the Bluesky social network.
HarperCollins is one of the largest publishers to reach such an accord, but not the first.
US scientific publisher Wiley said it has allowed “access to previously published academic and professional book content for specific use in training LLM models” in a $23 million contract with an unidentified “large tech company”.
The accords underscore the tension behind AI models, which collect huge quantities of content on the web, creating the risk of widespread copyright violations. AFP Kim
Iran to launch ‘advanced centrifuges’
TEHRAN — Iran said Friday it would launch a series of “new and advanced” centrifuges in response to a resolution adopted by the IAEA that censures Tehran for what the agency called lack of cooperation.
“The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran issued an order to take effective measures, including launching a significant series of new and advanced centrifuges of various types.”
The censure motion brought by Britain, France, Germany and the United States at the International Atomic Energy Agency’s 35-nation board followed a similar one in June. But it comes with tensions running high over Iran’s atomic programme, with critics fearing that Tehran is attempting to develop a nuclear weapon -- a claim the Islam-
ic republic has repeatedly denied.
The resolution -- which China, Russia and Burkina Faso voted against -- was carried with 19 votes in favour, 12 abstentions and Venezuela not participating, two diplomats told AFP.
The confidential resolution seen by AFP says it is “essential and urgent” for Iran to “act to fulfil its legal obligations”.
The text also calls on Tehran to provide “technically credible explanations” for the presence of uranium particles found at two undeclared locations in Iran.
In addition, Western powers are asking for a “comprehensive report” to be issued by the IAEA on Iran’s nuclear efforts “at the latest” by spring 2025.
The resolution comes just as the
IAEA’s head Rafael Grossi returned from a trip to Tehran last week, where he appeared to have made headway. During the visit, Iran agreed to an IAEA demand to cap its sensitive stock of near weapons-grade uranium enriched up to 60 percent purity. In 2015, Iran and world powers reached an agreement that involved the easing of international sanctions on Tehran in exchange for curbs on its nuclear programme to guarantee that Tehran could not develop a nuclear weapon -- something it has always denied seeking to do. But the United States unilaterally withdred from the accord in 2018 under then-president Donald Trump and reimposed biting economic sanctions, which prompted Iran to begin rolling back on its own commitments. AFP
says past diplomacy only confirms US hostility
NORTH Korean leader Kim Jong Un said Pyongyang’s past diplomacy with Washington only confirmed its “unchanging” hostility towards his country, state media said Friday, months ahead of Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
While in office, former US president Trump met with Kim three times, but Washington failed to make much progress on efforts to denuclearise North Korea.
Speaking on Thursday at a defence exhibition showcasing some of North Korea’s most powerful weapons systems, Kim did not mention Trump by name but the most recent high-level talks with the United States were under his administration.
Since Kim’s second summit with Trump collapsed in Hanoi in 2019, the North has abandoned diplomacy, doubling down on weapons development and rejecting US offers of talks.
“We have already gone as far as we can go with the United States as negotiators, and what we became certain of is not the willingness of a great power to coexist,” Kim said, according to the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). AFP CHINA urged the International Criminal Court on Friday to remain objective and fair after it issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
“China hopes the ICC will uphold an objective and just position (and) exercise its powers in accordance with the law,” foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said at a regular press conference in response to a question about the court’s warrant for Netanyahu. The
CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK
DPWH finishes 2 flood control projects in Negros, La Union
By Vito Barcelo
THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed two flood control projects in Negros Oriental and La Union as part of the government’s effort to strengthen flood management of more vulnerable areas in the country.
The combined infrastructure projects, worth more
than P164.61 million, will mitigate floods in areas often affected by flooding during heavy rains, causing damage to agricultural and private property.
DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan said the onekilometer flood control structure in Barangay San Jose, Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, will enhance the community’s resilience to flooding and protect local livelihoods.
The completed project, costing P71.54-million, was funded under the 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and now serves as a crucial element in the long-term economic stability of Manjuyod.
Meanwhile, the construction of the 497.42-meterlong flood mitigation project along the Maragayap River in the town of Bacnotan, La Union was also
Angeles City allots P39m for 3 school computer labs
By Butch Gunio
ANGELES City—Mayor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. has disclosed that an additional P39 million was allocated for the ongoing construction of computer laboratories in three public schools in the city, set to be completed in January 2025.
Lazatin made the disclosure in his State of the Children Address on Friday at the Angeles City Library Amphitheater.
The upcoming laboratories will be built at Gov. Rafael Lazatin Memorial High School in Balibago, Gov. Rafael Lazatin Integrated School in Sapalibutad, and Malabanias Integrated School.
The projects are part of the city’s continuing efforts to boost educational facilities and ensure that students have access to modern technology.
The construction of these new computer labs comes on the heels of the successful inauguration of four other computer laboratories in August 2024, including those at the Angeles City National Trade School, the Angeles City National High School, and the Northville Integrated School. These facilities, each equipped with 40 computers, are part of the city’s ICT modernization program, which aims to meet the ideal studentto-computer ratio and improve digital learning experiences.
In addition to 40 computers in each lab, the city government also provided computer tables, chairs, printers, air conditioning units, smart televisions, and fiber optics internet connection.
completed, including the construction of a concrete revetment, and grouted riprap with steel sheet piles to ensure the quality of the infrastructure.
The construction of the slope protection was implemented along the river’s portion in the agricultural Barangays of Guinabang and Calautit.
Costing P82.97-million, the project also includes the construction of a concrete, revetment, and grouted riprap with steel sheet piles to ensure the quality of the infrastructure.
The flood control structure along the Maragayap riverbank now ensures the safety of the local residents, reducing the risk of damage to their property and livelihood against the destructive impact of heavy rainfalls.
NSA proposes holistic model to curb threats of terrorism
By Rex Espiritu
NATIONAL Security Adviser
Eduardo Año calls for a united, whole-of-nation approach to combat the rising threat of terrorism and violent extremism, particularly those targeting the youth and vulnerable sectors.
Speaking at a strategic workshop in Manila, Año emphasized the need for collaboration among government agencies, private sectors, academe, and civil society to prevent these ideologies from taking roots.
“No single agency, sector, or leader can solve this problem alone,” Año said. “This workshop is a prime example of the collaborative approach crucial to success.”
Año highlighted the importance of international cooperation and learning from global models while tailoring solutions to the Philippines’ unique context. He stressed that the ultimate goal is “to ensure a safe, fear-free environment for all Filipinos, with a focus on inclusivity and community empowerment.”
The “Top Management Strategic Communications Workshop” featured expert-led discussions on topics such as public awareness strategies, family and societal roles, and the influence of digital spaces on youth recruitment.
Recommendations from the workshop include bolstering community education, creating strong support systems, and enhancing international collaboration to dismantle the foundations of extremist resilience.
Officials of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflicts officials reaffirmed their commitment to recalibrating counter-terrorism strategies, moving from armed conflict to addressing root causes, with the aim of fostering a peaceful and inclusive society.
and the
Members of the House of Representatives grieve the demise of
Deputy Speaker (11th Congress), Representative, 2nd District of Palawan (9th, 10th, 11th Congresses), Commissioner, Commission on Elections (1987-1992), Mayor, Puerto Princesa City (1986), ConCon Delegate (1971), practicing lawyer
His remains lie in state at Chapel 303, St. Peter Memorial Chapels, Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City from November 21 to 25, 2024, which shall thereafter be brought to 3 Lagan Street, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan so that constituents may also pay respect to their beloved former Representative
Interment shall be on November 30, 2024 at Puerto Princesa Memorial Park after the 2PM mass at the Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral, Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
Condolences to his beloved wife, Dr. Nellie, and his children, Atty. Maria Elena Abueg-Wandeler, former Deputy Speaker Atty. Frederick F. Abueg, Mr. Alfred F. Abueg, and former Representative Atty. Cyrille F. Abueg-Zaldivar.
We request readers to pray for the eternal repose of his soul.
PAF CHOPPER GOES DOWN IN HISTORY. A Philippine Air Force UH-1H Iroquis helicopter ends its epic military service to be preserved as part of the historic heritage of Passi City in Iloilo, with a marker to boot. PAF chief Lt. Gen. Stephen P. Parreño and Passi City Mayor Stephen Palmares preside at the unveiling of the marker and the blessing of the retired aircraft.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2024
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
EDGARD HILARIO,
Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila fires off
MANILA is set to light up with the ex-
citement of the ASICS Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila presented by AIA, a dynamic event blending athleticism, music and cultural pride. Scheduled from 10 p.m. tonight (Saturday) into the early hours of Sunday morning, this iconic racing festival is ready to host over 9,000 runners, making its third edition the largest yet.
The event’s international appeal is undeniable, drawing participants from 62 countries and reinforcing its reputation as a must-visit destination race. With a huge influx of foreign runners, the series has evolved into a unique experience for elite athletes and amateur enthusiasts alike. The US leads the international roster with 152 participants, followed by Japan with 38 entries. The United Kingdom and Northern Ireland combine for 22 athletes, while Germany, Malaysia, Korea, and Taiwan bring in 21, 20, 19, and 16 runners, respectively. Canada and India each contribute 15 participants, with China and France not far behind, both fielding 14 athletes.
This surge of global representation not only underscores Manila’s standing as a world-class venue but also provides a significant boost to local tourism. Hotels, restaurants and businesses are bustling as they prepare to welcome runners and supporters from across the globe, injecting vitality into the city’s economy.
But this isn’t just a race – it’s a celebration of Manila’s history and aspirations for the future. Runners will traverse iconic landmarks such as Rizal Park, Intramuros, the National Museum, Jones Bridge and Chinatown, all illuminated to create a breathtaking nighttime spectacle. As participants pound the streets to the rhythm of live drumbeats and themed performances, the city will come alive with an atmosphere that blends fitness, music and culture.
Cone: Gilas PH now an inside-out threat
By Peter Atencio
GILAS Pilipinas is slowly becoming the team that coach Tim Cone envisioned it to be —a defensive, inside-out team.
It was a working strategy that went well, involving a scenario that when the ball gets passed out of the post due to the difficulty of making an inside shot, hard and quick decisions are made afterwards.
Cone made his point on Thursday evening when the Philippines finally beat New Zealand, 93-89, in a physical encounter.
The shock win was considered one of the biggest reversals to happen in the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers before a sellout crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena.
“We have 7’3”, 6’10” power guys (in Kai Sotto and JuneMar Fajardo). Our intention was to play in and out and take advantage of that,” said Cone after he reflected on Gilas’ big triumph before 11,686 fans.
The Tall Blacks, according to Cone, were able to take Fajardo out of his game from the inside, but Sotto was able to step up, addressing the shortcomings of the San Miguel Beerman, who was defended heavily all throughout.
With Sotto backing up Fajardo inside, Justin Brownlee led with 26 points and 11 rebounds, alongside 4 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Sotto finished with 19 points on 8-of-14 shooting from the
Blending endurance with entertainment, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Manila transforms the marathon into a mustsee spectacle, delivering unforgettable moments for participants and spectators alike.
NU regains taekwondo women’s title
NATIONAL University reclaimed the throne after a perfect 5-0 campaign in the women’s division of the UAAP Season 87 Taekwondo Tournament on Thursday evening at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
It was the Lady Bulldogs’ first championship since completing a four-peat from UAAP seasons 79 to 82 (2016-19) with an impressive six-gold haul. After defeating University of the Philippines, 6-1, NU ended University of Santo Tomas’ two-year reign with a 6-1 victory to complete a perfect season.
“Sobrang proud talaga ako sa women’s team namin. Last year, we fell short by one match pero ganun talaga yung game, may nananalo, may natatalo,” recalled NU taekwondo program head Carlos Padilla. When the competitions resumed after a three-year hiatus, the Tiger Jins won back-to-back as the Lady Bulldogs finished runners-up in the past two seasons.
Bantamweight Veronica Garces was named season MVP.
field, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, together with a steal, and a pair of blocks.
Chris Newsome’s big triple helped Gilas’ cause as it gave them a 91-84 lead with 1:09 left, his shot coming after his defensive stop against Sam Waardenburg.
“Yeah, we’re built to be a more inside-out team than we are, than an open court, three-point shooting team,” said Cone, who added that they had to give up 18 three-point shots in that game.
Gilas will go for another win on Sunday, this time against Hong Kong, while the Kiwis seek to recover from their setback when they meet Chinese Taipei on Monday.
Debuting coach Judd Flavell said the Tall Blacks need to be a more cohesive team under his watch, after they posted four wins over Gilas during the time of Pero Cameron as coach.
“Pinaka main thing na ginawa namin is to start from the bottom. Hindi namin inisip na runner-up kami last year but we really aimed for a championship even the loss last year,” said Garces, a 25-year-old jin who is currently finishing a masters in education degree in health and physical education.
De La Salle toppled traditional men’s powers NU and UST to complete a 5-0 sweep on Wednesday to annex its first title since Season 76 (2013) and the ninth overall.
“We are very proud of them kahit hindi sila mag-champion because grabe yung hard work nila and their fighting spirit, lahat yun nagbunga,” said Green Jins coach Kirstie Alora, an Olympian from the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics. “Masaya kami na nakuha yung championship.”
Finweight Johnson Rosario emerged as the tournament MVP.
Danish firm allots over P130b in Bicol offshore wind farm
By Alena Mae S. Flores
COPENHAGEN Infrastructure New Market Fund Philippines Corp. (CINMF), an affiliate of Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) and Copenhagen Offshore Partners (COP), is investing P130 billion to P170 billion to construct a 1,000-megawatt offshore wind farm in the Philippines.
CINMF is the first 100-percent foreign-owned company to be awarded a wind energy service contract (WESC) by the Department of Energy (DOE) on March 30, 2023 for exclusive right to explore and develop an area in San Miguel Bay in Bicol region for harnessing offshore wind energy to produce electricity. The company said in documents submitted to the Department of Environment of Natural Resources that its wind energy service contract (WESC) with the Department of Energy covers an area of 23,307 hectares in the municipal waters of Sipocot, Cabusao, Calabanga and Tinambac in the province of Camarines Sur, and Mercedes in the province of Camarines Norte.
It said the proposed San Miguel Bay Offshore Wind Power Project would contribute about 3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) in avoided emissions per year, which accounts for about 2 percent of the Philippines’ carbon
emissions from energy consumption.
CINMF aims to help meet the increasing demand for reliable and affordable electricity supply, while also supporting the Philippine government’s strategy in addressing the challenges in climate change, energy security, and improving access to clean energy.
It said the offshore wind projects are poised to significantly stimulate economic activity and drive local economies as it can lead to increased demand for local services and materials, creating a ripple effect that benefits various sectors.
The development, installation, operations and maintenance of offshore wind farms are expected to generate about 1,500 direct jobs from construction, engineering, and technical services, providing diverse employment opportunities for local communities.
Its manufacturing components would also create around 1,900 indirect job opportunities.
PCC launches second probe of GCash-ECPay merger
By Othel V. Campos
THE Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) said Friday it launched a phase 2 review of Globe Fintech Innovations Inc. (Mynt)’s proposed acquisition of Electronic Commerce Payments Inc. (ECPay).
Mynt, the operator of the GCash e-waller, and ECPay, a leading electronic payment solutions provider, notified the PCC of their transaction on April 23, 2024. Under the agreement, Mynt will acquire 100 percent of ECPay’s shares, making it a wholly-owned subsidiary. Following the phase 1 review, the
PCC Mergers and Acquisitions Office (MAO) identified potential competition concerns in key markets, including payment services, aggregator services and merchant solutions.
The concerns involve potential impacts on competition in retail and digital payment channels such as sarisari stores, retail outlets and online payment systems.
As a result, the MAO initiated the phase 2 review on Sept. 19, 2024 to assess whether the transaction could substantially lessen competition in the market. A request for information was issued to the parties on Sept. 18, 2024.
The PCC is now inviting public and stakeholder comments on the potential competitive effects of the acquisition.
Interested parties can submit feedback until Dec. 8, 2024 via the online portal of PCC or by mail to the agency’s office in Quezon City. The said the public feedback would help assess the potential effects of the acquisition on market competition and consumer welfare. It said that in line with the Philippine Competition Act, the PCC is committed to ensuring that mergers and acquisitions do not harm competition or consumers in affected markets.
FOOD SECURITY. Sabin Aboitiz, Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) lead convenor and Aboitiz Group president and chief executive, shares insights alongside PSAC agri sector lead Aileen Uygongco-Ongkauko of the La
Filipina Uy Gongco Group and other PSAC-Agri members during the 8th Private Sector Advisory Council – Agriculture
Sector meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace. The discussions focused on initiatives to bolster food security, including enhancing local seed production and promoting
ERC Approval
4.1 The Parties shall jointly file the application for the approval of the Agreement (“ERC Application”) with the ERC. Parties shall exert its best efforts to secure the ERC approval of the Agreement within a reasonable time.
4.2 In the event that ERC Issues any decision on the ERC Application which effectively modifies or amends any of the terms of the Agreement including provisions on amounts payable under the Agreement, and which requires an amendment thereof, the Seller may file a motion for reconsideration of such decision within fifteen (15) Days from receipt thereof, and before the decision attains finality.
4.3 In the meantime, upon receipt of the ERe decision requiring amendments to the Agreement, the Parties shall cooperate in good faith to address the ERC modification of the Agreement and/ or to negotiate amendments to the Agreement. In the event that the Parties agree to an amended Agreement, the Parties shall file the amended Agreement for approval by the ERC within thirty (30) Days from the execution of such amended Agreement. Reduction of Contract Capacity From time to time upon and after the implementation of Retail Competition and Open Access (RCOA), Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), Renewable
(“PSALM”) with the conformity of the National Power Corporation (“NPC”) for the management and control of the 1000 MW Net Contracted Capacity of the Sual Coal-Fired Thermal Power Plant ( the “Plant”); 4. The Joint Applicants may be served with the orders, notices and other processes of the Honorable Commission through their respective undersigned counsels at the addresses indicated herein; NATURE OF THE APPLICATION
5. The Joint Application for approval of the Power Supply Agreement (“PSA”) entered into by and between DORELCO and SPI, is being submitted to the Honorable Commission for its review and approval pursuant to Sections 252 and 45(b)3 of Republic Act No. 9136, otherwise known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (the “EPIRA”), Rules 5, Section 4(e)4 and 11, Section 55 of its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) , Rule 20(B) of its Rules of Practice and Procedure, and other pertinent rules and regulations; STATEMENT OF FACTS
6. DORELCO is a duly franchised Distribution Utility engaged in the distribution of electricity within its franchise areas in the Municipalities of Abuyog, Burauen, Dagami, Dulag, Javier, Julita, La Paz, McArthur, Mahaplag, Mayorga, Tabon-tabon, Tanauan and Tolosa, all in the Province of Leyte. (the “Franchise Area”);
7. DORELCO needs the Energy and Capacity of the PSA to address the demands of the captive market in the most cost-effective way. The peak demand varies between 22.74 and 31.96, as indicated in DORELCO’s Supply and Demand Scenario and the Average Daily Load Curve, which are attached herewith.
THE CONDUCT OF COMPETITIVE SELECTION PROCESS
8. Through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), ten (10) Electric Cooperatives (EC) of Region 8, including DORELCO, agreed to conduct ajoint 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);
9. 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;
10. 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 policymaking body of the R8 JCPSP;
11. 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 was also created;
12. 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 Department of Energy (DOE) Department Circular No. DC2023-060021,6 and Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Resolution No. 16, Series of 20237;
13. On 15 December 2023, R8 JCPSP Bidding Documents, including Invitation to Bid, Terms of Reference, and Instructions to Bidders, were submitted to NEA. NEA then issued a Certificate of Conformity No. NEA-RAO-COC-2024-02 dated 22 March 2024 when it found the R8 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;
14. Thereafter on 6 and 13 April 2024, the Invitation to Bid and Terms of Reference were published in the Manila Bulletin newspaper. There was likewise a local publication under the Leyte Samar Daily Express and the EV Mail;
15. Invitations to power suppliers were also sent through electronic mail and po stings were made in the DOE CSP Portal and respective EC websites;
16. On 12 April 2024, Invitations to CSP Observers were sent to attend the Pre-Bid Conference, including NEA, DOE, ERC, consumer representatives, community representatives, interested civil society organizations and consumers, and regional development council for Eastern Visayas;
On 23 April 2024, the JBAC conducted its Pre-bid Conference 1. During the Pre-bid Conference 1, the comments and questions submitted by the bidders were reviewed and discussed;
18. 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 PreBid Conference 1;
19. 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;
20. 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;
21. On 25 June 2024, bidders submitted their respective bids for Lot 1 and Lot 2. The bids were opened on 25 June 2024 for Lot 1, and on 26 June 2024 for Lot 2 in the presence of JBAC, participating bidders, CSP Observers and an Independent Auditor;
22. On 1 to 3 July 2024, the JBAC conducted a postqualification evaluation of the lowest calculated bids for Lot 1 and Lot 2;
23. 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
24. 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 20272033 to TLI as the bidder having the lowest calculated responsive bid;
25. 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 2024-007002, respectively;
26. 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 duly acknowledged by SPI on 20 August 2024;
27. 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; 28. Thus, on 13 September 2024, DORELCO and SPI executed the Power Supply Agreement (PSA), commencing on the later of the two dates: (i) October 8,2024 or (ii) immediately after the issuance by the ERC of a Provisional Authority, or Interim Relief,
welfare, economic stability and growth.
38. Further, from the DORELCO’s rate impact simulation, it is clear that the implementation of the PSA with SPI would reduce DORELCO’s rate by Php 0.1206/kWh, as compared to if the same power requirements are purchased from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).
39. As such, the early implementation of this PSA with SPI would benefit DORELCO’s consumers, as it will ensure the provision of reliable, secure, and quality supply of electricity in the least cost manner.
40. To support the prayer for provisional authority or interim relief, the Affidavit of Merit of Acting General Manager Christopher A. Garcia is attached hereto as ANNEX T of the Joint Application. Allegations in Support of the Confidential Treatment of Annex “E” and Series and “Q
41. Rule 4 of the Honorable Commission’s Rules of Practice and Procedure provides that the EC and SPI may request that information may not be disclosed; 42. SPI prays for the confidential treatment of the information contained in the Annexes “E” and “Q”,
PH stocks slump on rising oil prices, peso rebounds
By Jenniffer B. Austria
PHILIPPINE stocks declined for a second straight trading, even as Wall Street and Asian stocks rose, on concerns about rising oil prices due to renewed tension between Russia and Ukraine.
The Philippine Stock Exchange index fell 82.88 points, or 1.21 percent, to close at 6,780.13, while the broader all-shares index declined by 21.18 points, or 0.56 percent, to settle at 3,788.21.
The Philippine peso closed at 58.87 against the US dollar Friday, after hitting an all-time low of 59 Thursday.
Veteran stockbroker Jonathan Ravelas said the dollar continued to strengthen, gaining momentum after Donald Trump’s re-election.
“Investors are bracing for increased USChina trade tensions and possible tariff
SSP plans to delist shares from PSE
SFA Semicon Philippines Corp. (SSP) is moving closer with its plan to voluntarily delist its shares from the Philippine Stock Exchange, as its public float fell below the minimum threshold of 10 percent following a tender offer.
SSP said in a disclosure to the stock exchange Friday its parent firm SFA Semicon Co. Ltd. (SFA Korea) acquired 192,772,951 million common shares held by minority investors, which represents about 9.43 percent.
The transaction increased SFA Korea’s ownership in SSP to 99.41 percent from 89.98 percent, SSP’s public float, however, declined to 0.59 percent, below the minimum requirement by the Philippine Stock Exchange on continued listing.
The tender offer commenced on Oct. 14, 2024 and ended on Nov. 12, 2024. The 192,772,951 million tendered shares, priced at P2.22 apiece, were crossed via a special block sale through the facilities of the PSE Thursday.
The PSE suspended the trading of SSP following the disclosure.
“Pursuant to the amended rule on minimum public ownership of the exchange-listed companies which become non-compliant with the minimum public ownership ‘shall be suspended from trading for a period of not more than six months and shall be automatically delisted if it remains non-compliant with the MPO after the lapse of the suspension period,” the PSE said. Jenniffer B. Austria
hikes,” Ravelas said. Trading was tepid, with net value turnover registering P3.11 billion, below the year-to-date average of P5.17 billion.
Foreigners were net sellers, with net outflows amounting to P584.49 million.
Among the indices, only the mining and oil closed with gains, up 0.07 percent.
The rest declined with the services registering the biggest loss of 1.61 percent, followed by conglomerates with 1.94 percent.
Losers edged gainers, 108 to 76.
Bloomberry Resorts Corp. was the main index gainer, rising 2.83 percent to P5.81, while Wilcon Depot Inc. was the worst index performer, dropping 4.27 percent to P13.
Meanwhile, most Asian markets gained Friday after a bounce on Wall Street, while bitcoin continued its march higher to move within touching distance of the $100,000 mark.
Rising geopolitical tensions tempered the atmosphere and lifted oil again after Russia hit Ukraine with a new-generation intermediate-range missile and sent a warning to the West.
The gains in equities followed a retreat in most regional bourses Thursday after a forecast-topping earnings report from chip titan Nvidia still fell short of investors’ hopes and sparked worries that a techfueled surge in markets may have run its course. With AFP
VITRO data center activates network infrastructure
By Darwin G. Amojelar
VITRO Inc., a subsidiary of ePLDT and the data center arm of PLDT Inc., activated the network infrastructure of its 50-megawatt VITRO Sta. Rosa (VSR) data center that will enable its telco partners to establish their points-of-presence (PoPs) within the facility, enhancing network diversity and redundancy.
Following VSR’s successful energization, the activation of its network infrastructure marks another milestone in the facility’s network readiness to ensure that clients have access to connectivity solutions that are best suited to their business needs.
Telco partners that are set to activate their PoP include PLDT, Radius, Eastern Telecommunications, Philcom, Infinivan, HGC and Converge ICT.
“At VITRO, our commitment goes beyond constructing state-of-the-art facili-
ties. We strive to build hyperconnected data centers that drive our clients’ business success. Our mission is to empower our clients by fostering a telco and carrier ecosystem that promotes growth, resilience, and innovation in the digital age,” said Victor Genuino, ePLDT and VITRO Inc. president and chief executive. With its network powered-up, VSR is poised to solidify its status as the first true hyperscale data center with a highly diverse ecosystem and robust network infrastructure that cater
senior assistant vice president of communications and branding Arline Adeva;
Laguindingan Mayor Diosdado Obsioma; Connected Women chief executive Agnes Gervacio; and Aboitiz Foundation Impact Lead for Jobs Gero Torres during the signing of the memorandum of agreement to launch the ELEVATE AIDA (Artificial Intelligence Data Annotation) program in Laguindingan. First to be implemented in Misamis Oriental, ELEVATE AIDA will pave the way for the free training of 50 women on data annotation and other digital skills to equip them for possible remote work opportunities.
JOLLIBEE’S AWARD. Vem King (second from left), Jollibee Group’s associate general counsel receives the Golden Arrow Award on behalf of the company during the recently held ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard Awards by the Institute of Corporate Directors. This is the third consecutive year that the Jollibee Group was cited for its strong corporate governance practices.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2024
extrastory2000@gmail.com
RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ, Editor
ALENA MAE S. FLORES, Asst. Editor
BSP approves dismissal of 4 employees for absenteeism
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Friday it approved the dismissal of four employees for habitual absenteeism.
“Regarding the absentee employees in the offices of two former Monetary Board members, the Monetary Board, in July 2024, approved the dismissal of four employees for serious dishonesty, grave misconduct and habitual absenteeism,” the BSP said in a statement.
“Their penalties include cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, perpetual disqualification from holding public office and a bar from taking civil service examinations,” it said.
The BSP said the cases of two oth-
er employees involved in their supervisory capacity are still in progress as the findings were contested and presentation of evidence is ongoing.
“After final submissions, the proceedings are expected to conclude by the first quarter of 2025, at which point the Office of the General Counsel will make its recommendation to the Monetary Board,” the BSP said.
“All offices/departments, including the Offices of Monetary Board members, have been reminded to strictly enforce attendance controls,” it said.
The BSP said the temporary enhanced procedures were implemented until a new HR system goes online in 2025. Darwin G. Amojelar
MPTC announces leadership changes
By Darwin G. Amojelar
METRO Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) on Friday announced a strategic leadership change to bolster its operational excellence and robust financial management.
Effective immediately, the new set of officers—NLEX Corp. chief finance officer Ma. Teresa Wells, Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South) vice-president for finance Elnora Rumawak and Metro Pacific Tollways Mobility Corp. vice-president for finance Angel
Carbo — will assume leadership of their respective business units as officers-in-charge. They will oversee the companies’ financial strategy, guide fiscal priorities and lead various critical initiatives.
After decades of dedicated ser-
PAL taps Collins Aerospace to equip aircraft with cutting-edge Pinnacle seats
PHILIPPINE Airlines (PAL) tapped Collins Aerospace to equip its narrow-body aircraft with cutting-edge Pinnacle seats.
The partnership marks a pivotal moment for the Philippine aerospace industry, showcasing the growing capabilities of local manufacturing. The Pinnacle seats, renowned for their comfort and durability, will be installed on PAL’s narrow-body aircraft.
“This collaboration between Collins Aerospace and Philippine Airlines represents a significant step forward for the Philippines’ aerospace industry,” said Mary DeStaffan, senior director of operations at Collins Aerospace Philippines.
“The expansion of Collins’ main cabin seating production at our Philippines location, in addition to installing the seats to fly on the nation’s flag
carrier soon, showcases our facility’s world-class capabilities and demonstrates the potential for growth in the local aerospace sector,” he said.
“Philippine Airlines is proud to partner with Collins Aerospace in this initiative,” said PAL president Stanley Ng.
“This collaboration aligns with our commitment to supporting local industry while ensuring our passengers enjoy the highest standards of comfort and safety. Being the first airline in the country to install locally made seats adds a special significance to our fleet enhancement program,” he said.
The Pinnacle main cabin seat provides enhanced passenger comfort and modular design, balancing durability with optimized living space and modern passenger amenities.
Darwin G. Amojelar
vice, NLEX Corp. president and general Manager J. Luigi Bautista, MPT South president and general manager Raul Ignacio, MPT Mobility president and general manager Roberto Bontia and MPTC chief human resources officer Baby Lea Wong announced their retirement.
The management realignment follows closely the appointment of MPTC president and chief operating officer Arrey Perez to ensure the seamless execution of operational initiatives.
“The decision to elevate financial
leadership at this juncture reflects our direction to ensure the subsidiaries are positioned for continued growth and aligning them with MPTC’s broader goals, as we work to deliver 5-star service to our motorists,” Perez said.
To support Perez at the Group level, MPTC management brought in Luis Renon as its new chief finance officer, leveraging his expertise to enhance the company’s fiscal position.
Renon previously served as senior vice president for PLDT where he led its internal audit division.
PhilHealth disbursed P137-b benefit claims to 12,000 hospitals in 10 months
prescribed under Republic Act No. 10606.
of 25 days. The payment was P37.6 billion, or 37.7 percent, higher than P99.9 billion over the same period last year. The national average TAT for claims processing also improved to 25 days, or 35 days faster than the 60 days
“The steady flow of payments and accelerated processing time are part of our commitment to provide timely and efficient support to our health care partners. The reduced turnaround time have been commended by partner hospitals around the country. It is helping them maintain liquidity, ensuring steady supply of medicines and supplies, salaries for health work -
ers, and continuous improvement of facilities which all translate to better services to members,” said PhilHealth president and chief executive Emmanuel Ledesma Jr.
The significant improvement in claims payments and faster turnaround time was recognized by the agency’s partners and stakeholders.
Dr. Jose P. Santiago Jr., president of Philippine Hospital Association, noted the improvement in payment to hospitals by PhilHealth.
SM, through SM Store and SM Retail, in partnership with Mastercard, and SM Foundation launched a new initiative aimed at empowering Filipino students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Ten exceptional students from the Ten Outstanding STEM Students (TOSS) program will receive scholarship grants, along with access to critical digital learning tools, to help them succeed in today’s tech-driven world. Mastercard will donate P100 to SM Foundation for every eligible transaction made using a Philippine-issued Mastercard at SM Stores. The funds raised from Nov. 15 to 17, 2024 during the promo period would go directly toward supporting the scholarships
Sharing the same observation, Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc. president Dr. Jose Rene De Grano thanked PhilHealth for “their initiative to improve claims processing and (making) payment to hospitals better.”
De Grano said that “for the past several months, we’ve seen significant improvements in claims processing, which hospitals can attest to, as they’ve acknowledged this positive change.”
for these students, enabling them to pursue higher education and build careers in the technology sector. The program also seeks to address the digital divide in the Philippines. Previous efforts equipped thousands of students with e-tablets and established digital learning hubs in public schools.
Nearly 10,000 students benefited from these resources, gaining access to modern technology that enhances their educational experience in 2023.
According to a 2020 Department of Education survey, only 64 percent of Filipino students had access to smartphones, and just 55 percent had access to laptops—critical tools for participating in digital learning.
BRIEF
Decoding diamonds
Getting a little help from the ‘rock’ experts
IRandom Talk
Kate Adajar
N THIS age of “quiet luxury” where extravagance or indulgence whispers rather than screams, diamonds remain the ultimate expression of elegance, romance, and sophistication. For those seeking these precious stones, understanding their worth can feel like learning a new language.
decoded Before you fall for that shiny rock, let’s decode the essential elements that make each diamond unique – the famous 4Cs that jewelry connoisseurs swear by. These were explained by experts from the IGI or International Gemological Institute which launched its first Philippine partnership with jewelry brand Tessera:
lCarat: Think of it as the diamond’s weight, measured in points (100 points = 1 carat). While bigger often means more valuable, clever cutting can make
a diamond appear larger than its actual weight.
lColor: Here’s a surprise – most “white” diamonds carry subtle hints of yellow. The grading runs from D (pure colorless) to Z (light yellow). Beyond Z, you enter the enchanting world of fancy-colored diamonds – think pinks and blues.
lClarity: Nature rarely creates perfection, and diamonds come with their unique marks, called inclusions. Graded on an 11-point scale from flawless to imperfect, these tiny characteristics tell each stone’s story.
lCut: This is where science meets art. A masterfully cut diamond plays with light like a prism, creating that irresistible sparkle that turns heads. It’s all about perfect proportions and symmetry.
When an expert was asked what advice he would give someone who is
ENVIRONMENTAL stewardship is more important than ever, and through large-scale coastal cleanup initiatives, communities are rallying together to protect the world’s seas and oceans. By partnering with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Local Government Units (LGUs), private sector organizations, and passionate individuals, these efforts continue to inspire thousands of volunteers to take meaningful action, demonstrating the crucial role of collective engagement in preserving marine ecosystems.
This year, SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, held quarterly coastal cleanup events that showcased the power of collective action. With the help of more than 27,000 volunteers, including SM employees, mall tenants, affiliates, and individuals
Tessera’s diamonds come with a co-branded certificate which verifies its quality and origin
about to propose marriage and wants to know which C to prioritize, this was the surprising answer: “For me, personally, I think the fourth C, the cut grade, is the most underrated or underappreciated of the four Cs. But cut is the only thing that you can see with the naked eye. So, usually, when I advise friends who ask me the same question, I would go for an excellent cut stone and maybe sacrifice a little bit on one or two of the Cs.”
Because not everything that sparkles is real
In an age where authenticity matters more than ever, Tessera has partnered with the International Gemological Institute (IGI) to offer something precious: peace of mind. Each diamond comes with a co-branded certificate –think of it as your diamond’s passport, verifying its quality and origin.
“We’re building relationships, not just selling jewelry,” says Papat Fider, the force behind Tessera. “Our partnership with IGI means every customer knows exactly what they’re investing in –genuine, ethically sourced diamonds that meet exceptional standards.”
The conscious choice
Since opening its doors in 2011, Tessera found its place in the Philippine jewelry scene by prioritizing responsible sourcing. Each diamond is selected with consideration for both environmental impact and human rights – because true luxury should never come at the cost of conscience or kindness.
How 27,000 SM employees and volunteers create an impact for a waste-free future
from the public, private, and academic sectors, SM Cares collected more than 155,000 kg of waste, underscoring its commitment to tackling marine pollution and protecting aquatic life through community action.
Marine pollution remains a pressing global crisis, with millions of tons of waste polluting oceans annually, endangering marine life, ecosystems, and human health. Coastal cleanups play a crucial role in mitigating this problem by removing waste before it spreads further into the seas. Through large-scale coastal cleanup initiatives, SM Cares not only reduces pollution but also raises public awareness about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and the power of collective action in addressing environmental challenges.
Beyond cleanup efforts, SM Cares promotes environmental consciousness
by empowering communities to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives. These coastal cleanups are part of SM Cares’ broader Programs on Environment, which focus on promoting sustainable solutions and tackling various environmental issues. With its commitment to creating a Waste-Free Future, SM Cares continues to inspire community-driven actions for a cleaner, healthier planet.
SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Persons with Disabilities, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.
To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.
Joseph Montecillo’s ‘In the Blood’ hits the shelves
Anthony Montecillo will debut his first collection of short fiction, In the Blood and Other Stories, at a launch event tomorrow (Nov. 24) at Palm Tree Abbey. The event, scheduled from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., will include a program with limited seating
Included in the collection is the titular story, “In
and
bus driver. In “The Forgotten Bones,”
man who lives in a cemetery has an unexpected experience between the rows of tombs.
“I’ve been fascinated by horror for as long as I can remember,” said Montecillo. “It’s always appealed to me, and it’s no shock that my work moved in that direction through the years. I hope that this collection makes for an exciting addition to the long tradition of horror here in the Philippines.”
Montecillo made his first professional fiction sale at the age of 12. In the time since, he has published over 20 short stories, many of which feature dark or macabre subject matter. Outside of his writing ventures, though, he regularly performs as a stand-up comedian around Metro Manila.
For Montecillo, the connection between the two is natural.
“I’m far from the first comedian to work in the horror field,” he said. “Both deal in instant feedback and the goal of leaving an intense and immediate sensation upon the audience. They go hand in hand in a lot of ways, and sometimes that comes across in a few stories in the collection.”
In the Blood and Other Stories is now available for purchase from UP Press’s oncampus and online stores, as well as their stores on Shopee and Lazada.
Over 155,000 kg of trash are collected in total by volunteers from 16 SM Supermalls nationwide – SM by the BAY, SM Center
Tuguegarao Downtown, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Olongapo Downtown, SM City Bataan, SM City La Union, SM City Puerto Princesa, SM City Daet, SM City Sorsogon, SM City Roxas, SM City Legazpi, SM City General Santos, SM City Mindpro, SM City Cebu, and SM Seaside City Cebu.
SM City La Union employees demonstrate their early involvement in making a positive impact for the community from day one.
SM Cares collaborates with local government units, private organizations, and communities to ensure the success of its coastal cleanup programs.
More than 27,000 volunteers from the public, private, and academic sectors participate in this year’s coastal cleanups, highlighting the power of community-driven action.
Employee volunteers from SM Seaside Cebu and SM City Cebu sort through collected waste – amplifying the company’s goal of
Waste-Free Future even during coastal cleanup activities.
Diamond dictionary
The four elements which make diamonds unique are its carat, color, clarity, and cut
Writer Joseph Anthony Montecillo
The diamonds used by Tessera in its jewelries are selected with consideration for environmental impact and human rights
The cover of Joseph Anthony Montecillo’s first collection of short fiction ‘In the Blood and Other Stories’
Tessera co-founder Papat Fider
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2024
lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com
NICKIE WANG, Editor
ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer
ABIGAIL ADRIATICO, Writer
SHOWBIZ
Star Magical Christmas 2024 delivers holiday cheer, festive surprises
STAR Magic artists will reunite this holiday season for the much-anticipated Star Magical Christmas 2024, airing tomorrow (Nov. 24) on Star Magic’s YouTube channel.
Fans worldwide can join the festivities by tuning in to the livestream starting at 6:00 p.m. Manila time. The event promises a star-studded evening featuring some of the brightest talents in Philippine entertainment. Viewers can catch their favorite artists as they walk the white carpet
in dazzling outfits and celebrate the magic of Star Magic.
The event will showcase exciting performances from top love teams, including Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, Loisa Andalio and Ronnie Alonte, and Kaori Oinuma and Jeremiah Lisbo. Also gracing the stage are Joshua Garcia, Gerald Anderson, Jake Cuenca, the housemates of PBB Gen 11, and OPM groups
BINI and BGYO, among others.
In addition, Star Magic will honor its loyal artists for their dedication over the years. Fans will also have the chance to vote for the “Star Magic Artist of the Year 2024,” with nominees including BINI, Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, Maymay Entrata, MaThon (Maris Racal and Anthony Jennings), the cast of Zoomers, and the PBB Gen 11 Big 4 (Fyang, Rain, Kolette, and Kai). Voting is open until tomorrow via KTX.ph, with proceeds going to the ABS-CBN Foundation’s Sagip Kapamilya program. Star Magic’s holiday spirit extends beyond the show, with the launch of its “Share the Magic” initiative. The campaign aims to spread joy to select charities, starting with Dimples Romana and the cast of the musical Taympers, who treated street children to surprises. More “Share the Magic” videos will be featured on the Star Magic YouTube channel.
VMX unmasks deep desires in bold November releases
By Angelica Villanueva
WITH its two exciting new films, Kabitan and Pukpok , VMX invites audiences to explore powerful stories of love, betrayal, and ambition this November. Featuring bold storytelling and compelling performances, these films shed light on the complex lives of women facing tough emotional challenges.
Premiering on Nov. 12, Kabitan explores the tangled web of affection between two women who share a surprising bond.
Directed by Sigrid Polon, the film brings to life the emotional intricacies of Alice, played by Athena Red , and Mika, portrayed by Alessandra Cruz Both find themselves playing second fiddle in their respective relationships. Beautiful but depressed, Alice has become a mistress and finds temporary solace in a condo that has been converted into a love nest with her married lover. In contrast, Mika is vivacious and new to the city—and to the position of “the other woman.” Their connection begins amid
Arah
the bustle of Mika’s moving day and grows stronger as they see how vulnerable she is in a crisis. Although they remain attached to their loves, their bond becomes more intimate as they rely on one another more than they expected. But when Van, Mika’s lover, decides to divorce his wife, the delicate balance is upset, testing Alice and Mika’s friendship.
Kabitan , which also features Juan Pablo Calma and Chester Grecia, asks the question: Can love transcend the roles assigned by society?
On Nov. 22, Pukpok, directed by Christopher Novabos, delves into a gritty world of deceit and desire set against a bustling construction site. Allison Smith stars as Jennilyn, a cunning secretary with a hidden agenda. Jennilyn balances her job with a dangerous side hustle, colluding with a security guard to steal and sell construction materials. Her manipulative charm soon entangles her with the site owners, brothers Christian (Rash Flores ) and Richard ( Seon Woo Kim), as she skillfully pits them against one another.
The stakes escalate with the arrival of Randy (Mon Mendoza), a new worker. Together, Jennilyn and Randy scheme for bigger heists, using Jennilyn’s seductive tactics to extract vital information from Christian. However, as her ambitions grow, so do the risks, leading to a climax filled with unexpected twists.
Pukpok delivers a sharp commentary on ambition and the moral costs of survival, ensuring an edge-of-your-seat experience for viewers.
‘Greedy
A SLEEPY island town becomes the backdrop for a dark comedy about greed, crime, and chaos in murder mystery Greedy People, starring Himesh Patel, Joseph GordonLevitt, and Lily James. The film is directed by Potsy Ponciroli
The story follows rogue local cop Terry (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and his rookie partner, Will (Himesh Patel), in the small town of Providence. Terry, who claims that not much ever happens in the town, is proven wrong when the duo stumbles upon a million dollars at a crime scene of their own making. As they attempt to keep the money for themselves, their
actions set off a series of events that spiral out of control. Soon, the town’s power-hungry residents—including Will’s pregnant wife (Lily James), a masseur (Simon Rex), and a local seafood magnate (Tim Blake Nelson) — are caught up in the race for cash, revealing just how far they are willing to go for the almighty dollar. Patel, reflecting on the film’s layered twists, described Greedy People as “brilliant,” adding that the story logically builds upon each character’s mistakes.
“Each mistake led to the next, and Will finds himself cornered with no way out. His and Paige’s [Lily James’
character] decisions pile up, leading to a truly shocking climax,” Patel said. “It makes for a thrilling ending.”
The film explores the power of greed, with Patel noting how the temptation of money can lead good people astray, especially under the stress of difficult circumstances.
“You really should stop and take a minute, if you’re confronted by a fork in the road,” he said. “This movie is a thrill ride—you don’t know where it’s going to go... and I hope people enjoy that.” Greedy People premiered on Nov. 22 and is available for streaming on Lionsgate Play, exclusively via PLDT Home and Smart.
Potsy Ponciroli’s
‘Kabitan’ stars Juan Pablo Calma (leftmost), Athena Red (second from left), and Chester Grecia (rightmost) with director Sigrid Polon (second from right)
Onscreen partners Donny Pangilinan (left) and Belle Mariano in Christmas-themed outfits
P-pop girl group BINI in a fun themed costume of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ in last year’s Star Magic event
Actor Joshua Garcia in a Willy Wonka costume
From left:
‘Pukpok’ director
Christopher Novabos with stars Rash Flores,
Alonzo, Allison Smith, and Seon Woo Kim
JBL Tour PRO 3: Enjoy entertainment anywhere with most advanced TWS
JBL, a trailblazer in audio technology, has launched the new JBL Tour PRO 3, the most advanced True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds yet. With the introduction of dual drivers, JBL Spatial 360 with Head Tracking, True Adaptive Noise Cancellation 2.0, and a Smart Charging CaseTM packing truly unique features, JBL Tour PRO 3 redefines the TWS listening and user experience.
Seamless Convenience with ‘Everywhere Entertainment’ At the forefront of the JBL Tour PRO 3’s innovations is the secondgeneration Smart Charging CaseTM. The case not only provides full control of the earbud features, but also acts as a wireless audio transmitter, enabling ‘Everywhere Entertainment’ from any USB or analog source such as an inflight entertainment system. Simply plug in the charging case for an instant and automatic connection to your earbuds.
Better yet, the direct connection between case and earbuds is more stable, and lower latency, than Bluetooth, making it the perfect companion for gaming, calls*, movies and music.
JBL Tour PRO 3 is JBL’s first TWS model with full AuracastTM functionality. Easily share audio content with any AuracastTM-enabled device using the AuracastTM button on the Smart Charging CaseTM display. Or join an existing broadcast by simply tapping in with the case and accompanying app.
The redesigned Smart Charging CaseTM now features a 30% larger screen than its predecessor, all wrapped in a smaller, more pocketable package. The screen provides seamless control over music playback, call management, access to ID3 Tag, caller ID and media file information, and more without needing to access your phone.
LEADING Philippine fiber broadband and technology solutions provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. continues its push to fiber-power the country’s airports as it gave a 1-gigabyte capacity connection to Davao International Airport, for the use of the nearly 3.9 million passengers transiting through the gateway annually.
“As we near the last quarter of the year, we’re forging ahead with our project of providing fiber broadband to the country’s local and international gateways. We’re happy to report that Davao International Airport is now fiberized by Converge! Consider this as an early Christmas gift, as we expect an influx of travelers these last two months of the year,” said Converge CEO and CoFounder Dennis Anthony Uy.
In a ceremony held November 13, 2024, Converge Government Affairs Head Angelico “Chito” Salud linked hands with Davao International Airport General Manager Engr. Rex A. Obcena to officially seal the collaboration, done through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
The 1-gigabyte connectivity can be used through 49 access points spread throughout the airport’s passenger terminal building spanning 65,000 square meters, including the 14 domestic and international check-
Immersive JBL Spatial 360 with Head Tracking
The JBL Tour PRO 3 brings JBL Spatial 360 and Head Tracking technology from any audio source. This feature transforms stereo sound into a fully immersive experience, in particular when watching movies or playing games. Head Tracking deepens the immersive experience by making sounds appear to come from outside your head and stay fixed in space, even when you move your head. Legendary JBL Pro Sound No matter what you are listening to, enjoy it in excellent quality. JBL Tour
PRO 3 boasts a hybrid dual driver system in each earbud, a first for JBL TWS, delivering JBL’s legendary Pro Sound. The balanced armature driver handles the high notes with enhanced clarity, freeing the 11mm dynamic driver to provide powerful, cleaner bass and vivid vocals. With a dedicated DAC for each driver reproducing a specific part of the frequency range from 20Hz to 40kHz, enjoy every detail in stunning definition, closer than ever to studio sound reproduction.
Further enhancing audio quality, the Hi-Res certified wireless audio codec LDAC, delivers three times more data than the standard Blue -
in counters and commercial areas.
The 49 access points are estimated to serve some 12,500 users daily.
“The facility we’ve laid down in the Davao International Airport is capable of providing 1 Gbps of bandwidth for the passengers, but it can accommodate more. We’ve put in
tooth codecs, resulting in exceptional high resolution sound.
“JBL Tour PRO 3 introduces a brandnew audio platform developed for sonic excellence as it sets new standards in customization, performance, and convenience. I am particularly excited by the new generation Smart Charging CaseTM because the new audio transmitter technology is unique as it unlocks so many potential scenarios for improving audio quality and enhancing the listening experience,” said Grace Koh, General Manager and Vice President, Consumer Audio, Harman Asia Pacific.
Customized Listening Experience Earbuds that fit to your lifestyle. Most features of the JBL Tour PRO 3 are fully customizable, including the True Adaptive Noise Cancellation 2.0 technology. This advanced system measures over 50,000 times per second, adapting to environmental changes and compensating for sound leakage.
For the best comfort and performance, JBL Tour PRO 3 ships with an extensive selection of ear tip options. Find your perfect fit with five different sized silicon and one additional set of foam ear tips.
With six microphones and a hydrodynamic windproof design, Tour PRO 3 ensures clear and undistorted voice transmission during calls. The earbuds
use a new, proprietary, JBL Crystal AI call algorithm to enhance clarity even in noisy environments. Your voice will now not only be clear in places with low frequency stationary noisessuch as traffic and in a subway, but also in situations with more sudden high frequency noises such as coffee shops. Further enhance your calling experience with the new smart call equalizer, Voice Call. This features a sound level optimizer which helps reduce the volume of loud talkers or amplify quiet talkers. Personalized, Inside and Out For a fully personalized sound, the Personi-fi 3.0 hearing test offers a customized sound profile. This JBL algorithm accurately measures and adjusts for individual hearing profiles using 12 bands for EQ compensation and 14 warble tones. The adjustments are now made separately for each ear, providing the most personalized listening experience to date. Additionally, Tour PRO 3 allows users to personalize the display lock screen and wallpaper with any photo and supports display commands in 13 languages.
JBL Tour PRO 3 is now available in Black and Latte colorways at an SRP of P16,999 at all authorized JBL retail and online stores. For more information, visit www.jbl.com.ph.
Gemini app now available on iPhone
this extra capacity to suit the needs of the airport management and personnel, and of course the thousands of passengers that go through the airport,” said Uy.
Travelers in Davao International Airport can enjoy fiber-fast internet for two hours upon logging on to the Converge network. Converge subscribers with a GoFiber account have an additional 6 hours of free internet access for five devices if they input their GoFiber account number in the login page.
Davao International Airport is the main airport serving Davao City and Davao Region in the Philippines. Serving as the main gateway to Mindanao, it is the busiest airport on the island and the third busiest in the Philippines in 2022.
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility program, Converge is equipping the Philippines’ gateways with fiber-fast broadband, having finished NAIA in the second quarter of this year and now setting its sights to regional airports.
GOOGLE announced the launch of the Gemini app for iPhone, available for free on the App Store. Gemini, Google’s most advanced AI system, is now accessible to iPhone users worldwide, offering a personalized and intuitive AI experience right in their pockets. With Gemini, people can engage in natural, flowing conversations, ask questions on any topic, and receive tailored assistance for a wide range of tasks. This release marks a significant step in making powerful AI accessible to everyone, regardless of their device preference. Here are a few examples of what the Gemini iPhone app can do: Provide a free-flowing conversation: iPhone users can now talk to Gemini in a conversational manner, including interrupting to ask questions or change the topic. This is ideal for practicing for an upcoming interview, asking for advice on things to do in a new city, or brainstorming and developing creative ideas. Gemini’s voice can be personalized by choosing from 10 distinct voices. Gemini Live on iPhones is available now in over 10 languages, with more coming soon. Personalize learning experience: Gemini makes learning easier, enabling people to ask questions about
any subject and get tailored study plans. Gemini enhances learning by providing custom, step-by-step guidance that adapts to individual learning styles. It can even generate quizzes to test knowledge on any subject. For example, a user could upload a complex diagram and ask Gemini to create a quiz based on its content, offering a unique and interactive way to assess understanding. Generate images that match the brief: Imagen 3, Google’s highestquality image generation model yet, quickly transforms text descriptions into stunning AI images. From looking for the perfect image to share in a friends’ group chat to creating a unique visual for a creative project, Imagen 3’s enhanced photorealism and accuracy can bring one’s ideas to life — with incredible detail and vibrancy. Connect people with their favorite apps: Gemini seamlessly connects people with their favorite apps from Google. With Extensions, Gemini can find and show relevant information from the Google apps people use every day like YouTube, Google Maps, Gmail, Calendar and more — all within a single conversation.
Download Gemini now, everyone’s new personal AI assistant.
JBL Tour PRO 3
Gemini is Google’s most advanced AI system
Shown here are (from left) Converge Regional General Manager of the VisMin area Demetrio Montes, Regulatory Officer McNeil Mendoza, paralegal Glenn Anayron, Converge Regional Commercial Manager Benjo Tonzo, Converge Government Relations Manager Jay-Ar Maguddatu and Converge Government Affairs Head Angelico Salud.
Davao International Airport administration staff, Converge VisMin officials, and local government officials joined the powering-on ceremony.
C4 TECH
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2024
rumallari@thestandard.com.ph
rieramallari@yahoo.com
RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor
EDGARD HILARIO, Asst. Editor
OPPO Find X8, Find X8 Pro launched in global markets
OPPO, the world’s leading smart device brand, today announced the global availability of its Find X8 and Find X8 Pro flagship smartphones. Each delivers ultra-grade experiences across camera, performance, and battery life and debuts ColorOS 15 with its suite of advanced OPPO AI solutions.
The global release of the OPPO Find X8 series underscores OPPO’s commitment to globalization and its dedication to delivering top-quality products and services to users worldwide.
“Our progress in globalization stems from OPPO’s commitment to understanding local communities and delivering exceptional products and services,” said Billy Zhang, President of Overseas Marketing, Sales and Services at OPPO. “As we expand in overseas market, we remain committed to creating diverse and innovative solutions that enhance the users experience.”
Overseas markets as OPPO’s growth engine Overseas markets have become the growth engine for OPPO. Currently, the company operates in over 70 countries and regions, with more than 300,000 retail spaces worldwide. OPPO now ranks No. 4 globally in smartphone shipments, and overseas shipments account for approximately 60% of its total volume.
Southeast Asia remains a core market for OPPO, where the brand holds the top position. Newly established markets in 2024, such as Brazil and Argentina, underscore OPPO’s commitment to expanding in Latin America. Now OPPO ranks NO.5 with a 62% year-on-year growth in Latin America.
OPPO’s ambitions of globalization extend beyond smartphones as it evolves into a comprehensive global technology company. With a diverse product portfolio that includes internet services—en-
gaging 700 million ColorOS users worldwide2—and a growing lineup of IoT products, OPPO is dedicated to expanding its presence in global markets. Strengthening local connections through retail, manufacturing, and cultural engagement
A significant part of OPPO’s globalization success comes from its commitment to connect with local communities.
With the goal of resonating with people and understanding their unique cultures, OPPO partners with Discovery Channel this year to launch the “Culture in a Shot” initiatives, celebrating culture diversity through OPPO imaging technology. To date, over 330 million people worldwide have been inspired by
these cultural images and stories.
OPPO’s understanding of local culture is also evident in its retail strategy. As part of its retail 3.0 Pro upgrading plan with a $60 million investment, OPPO integrate the local culture into its retail space to create a welcoming and familiar environment for customers. In Indonesia, for example, OPPO stores feature coffee corners with locally sourced coffee.
To ensure reliable quality for local consumers, OPPO is not just sold globally but also made globally. With manufacturing centers in 8 countries, OPPO’s local production capabilities enable it to efficiently meet regional market demands while strengthening connections with local communities and economies.
Driving premiumization through joint innovation with global tech giants
As OPPO expands globally, it is also focusing on premiumization.
By collaborating with leading tech companies such as Google, MediaTek, Ericsson, and Hasselblad, OPPO continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in AI, imaging, and connectivity. For example, featuring AI Telescope Zoom and Lightning Snap, OPPO Find X8 Series is the perfect Matchday Phone for fans, under the collaboration between UEFA and OPPO. These partnerships empower OPPO to deliver exceptional, premium experiences that cater to discerning consumers worldwide, and strengthening its influence in premium markets.
With a focus on global expansion, local engagement, and premium experiences, OPPO is committed to bringing innovative, high-quality solutions to users worldwide. The OPPO Find X8 series global launch exemplifies this commitment, and it is backed by OPPO’s dedicated global service network in over 62 countries and regions. As it moves towards globalization and localization, OPPO remains dedicated to delivering technology that empowers and connects communities around the world.
Goodbye to missed payments: Ezypay partners with GCash and Xendit to enable automatic subscriptions
WITH digital wallets swiftly becoming the backbone of financial transactions in the Philippines, Ezypay, a leading Fintech company specializing in recurring and subscription payments, has introduced the country’s first recurring payment integration with GCash, further enhanced through its collaboration with Xendit.
This advancement allows businesses to offer automated, subscription-based payments through GCash, transforming it from a one-time payment tool into a subscription-ready digital payment method and meeting the demands of a growing, tech-savvy consumer base. GCash has over 94 million users, reaching 8 out of 10 Filipinos as of 2024, making it the leading financial tool in the country, surpassing traditional banks in popularity.
Through its integration with Xendit, a top payment gateway platform in Southeast Asia, Ezypay has created a powerful solution for subscriptionbased businesses, delivering world-class digital payment experiences for its clients.
“We are thrilled to enable this functionality in the Philippines, expanding the digital payment ecosystem for our software partners and their customers,” said James Foster, CEO of Ezypay.
“Our GCash and Xendit recurring payment integration is designed to support subscription-based models in industries like fitness, leisure, and SaaS, offering a seamless experience that eliminates friction in the payment process.”
Next-Level Digital Payments for Subscription-Based Industries
Previously limited to customer-initiated, onetime transactions, GCash’s new subscription functionality allows businesses to automate monthly or weekly payments for customers.
This technology is highly valuable for Ezypay’s partners, such as GymMaster, a SaaS provider specializing in fitness club management software.
Starting in November 2024, GymMaster will enable fitness centers across the Philippines to
accept recurring GCash payments through Ezypay, simplifying transactions and improving customer satisfaction.
“Our partnership with Ezypay and GCash will unlock recurring digital payments for businesses across the Philippines. This collaboration aligns with our goal of delivering seamless and secure payment solutions that empower local merchants to thrive in an increasingly digital world. By enabling recurring payments through GCash, we are not only modernizing the way Filipino businesses operate but also providing their customers with greater ease and flexibility,” says Christian Reyes, General Manager of Xendit Philippines.
Strengthening Security and Compliance with Reliable Fintech Solutions
Ezypay’s approach to subscription management is supported by strong security measures, ensuring full compliance with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and protecting user data.
This security-first strategy reinforces Ezypay’s reputation as a trusted payment provider for subscription-based businesses in the Philippines.
The company has been operating in the Philippines since 2014, serving a range of industries with its advanced payment solutions and demonstrating a deep understanding of the local market’s needs.
TODAY’S learners face considerable challenges; their learning journey was set back several years by the global pandemic that halted face-to-face classes from March 2020 (the first implementation of community quarantines) to November 2022 (when the Department of Education, or DepEd, ordered a full return to school-based learning). According to UNICEF, Filipino learners missed more learning opportunities compared to their global counterparts, as the Philippines was among the last countries to reopen in-person classes—effectively putting Filipino learners at a significant disadvantage.
This situation is concerning, with Filipino learners collectively ranking 77th among 81 countries in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 rankings released in December 2023—an indication that many have been left behind.
However, this disheartening situation of the Filipino learner also presents an opportunity for education stakeholders—parents, teachers, school leaders, and academic publishers—the whole learning community, to unite and give the country’s millions of learners (18,370,310 in the public school system alone, according to DepEd’s data for school year 2024–2025) the support they need to overcome this disadvantage and so they can thrive and succeed.
Rex Education, the country’s leading academic publisher for over seven decades and a vital stakeholder in the education sector, takes the challenge.
REX has championed the Filipino learner since its founding in the 1950s, initially selling—and then publishing—textbooks and other scholastic materials that have long been staples in every classroom nationwide.
These are all available at Rex E-Store (https:// estore.rex.com.ph/), the company’s one-stop online store for quality learning solutions.
As the digital age emerged, ushering in distance learning, Rex Education responded accordingly by launching Schoology in 2015, one of the Philippines’ very first learning management systems (LMS). Rex Education’s Schoology represents the classroom of the future—fully digital and rich with innovative features that make learning easy, accessible, fun, and challenging.
“Technology cannot be an add-on; it’s a necessity,” Rex Education stated in a media release announcing the launch of Schoology. “Flexible learning is not a privilege or an advantage; it’s a necessity. Certainly, future-proofing our classrooms, although it cannot be perfected, is an imperative.”
Now, with GCash and Xendit added to its payment options alongside Visa and Mastercard, Ezypay provides flexibility and ease for both local enterprises and consumers alike.
Enabling a Digitally Connected Philippine Market
Ezypay’s GCash recurring payment feature addresses the increasing demand for subscription services and digital wallets in the Philippines, a country where digital transformation is rapidly reshaping consumer behaviors.
That press release proved prescient 5 years later, as digital classrooms like Rex Education’s Schoology became integral to advancing education during a time when traditional classes were closed indefinitely.
Moreover, Rex Education expanded Schoology, making it accessible to more learners nationwide, adding additional resources to the platform, and introducing new features and capabilities.
Now, with the pandemic in the rearview, Schoology remains an educational powerhouse, advocating for the Filipino learner in this age of hybrid education by enhancing traditional learning environments and providing 21st-century learning experiences. With traditional modalities infused with digital tools, today’s learners can embark on the challenging journey of making up for lost years while also preparing for a technology-focused future. However, Filipino learners still have significant ground to cover, particularly in math and science, where they ranked near the bottom in the same PISA 2022 rankings.
Rex Education, through First Eduspec Inc. (FEI), helps address this gap by offering a comprehensive ICT and robotics curriculum that can enrich the learning opportunities and experiences of today’s learners and prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow. While today’s Filipino learners may be disadvantaged, they can achieve more and reach their full potential with the right support.
This is a challenge to all the sector’s stakeholders— an urgent call to
OPPO Find X8 Series
OPPO Find X8 series as the Matchday Phone
Ezypay, GCash and Xendit ribbon-cutting