Manila Standard - 2025 Jan 1 - Wednesday

By Ratziel San Juan

Marcos starts mid-term with key reforms

place

By Rio N. Araja

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

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

2024 infra, economic strides improved Pinoys' lives–Palace

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 vetoed P16.7 billion worth of flood control projects in various regions from

Yang's lawyer mocks probers amid heated inquiry

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

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

“I am very interested in how they [Quad Comm members] can prove this criminal network in court. In Congress, lawmakers act as both prosecutor and judge,” he said.

By Ralph Rirao

By Darwin Amojelar

Bautista said in a Viber message, referring to the website that published the said story.

“Bilyonaryo is inconsistent,” he added.

Yang, who already admitted having a fake Philippine birth certificate, is the brother of Michael Yang, a presidential economic

“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

adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

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

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

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

Navy spokes debunks China claim of military exercises in Scarborough shoal

cent Trinidad told reporters that Manila troops did not monitor any such activity, adding that Bei

jing’s statement was meant only for its internal audience.

By Vito Barcelo

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

Two Chinese warships were monitored at a distance ranging from eight to 14 nautical miles. One of these went up to 1,000 yards at the MMCA site but even

tually went away. “It was not threatening, just normal,” accord

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.

By Charles Dantes

AS PRESIDENT Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.’s administration enters its mid-term, its key economic reforms have resulted in better lives for Filipinos under the banner of “Bagong Pilipinas,” the Palace on Tuesday said.

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

Mr. Marcos likewise made significant strides in infrastructure development in his first three years in office, bolstering connectivity, energy reliability, and public transportation across the country. Part of the administration’s commitment to strengthen the economy were sustained investments in irrigation, flood control, supply chain logistics, and climate change adaptation. There was also a push to liberalize restrictions on information transfer technology, an agenda that prompted Google to expand its business in the Philippines.

President Marcos met with executives of Google in April after his

waters over the

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

trade and extrajudicial killings.

Most surrogate moms reunite with families

SOME of the surrogate mothers repatriated from Cambodia have been reunited with their respective families, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported.

The DSWD said it facilitated the reintegration of several surrogate mothers, who were repatriated to the country on December 29 after being granted a Royal Pardon in Cambodia.

Three of the surrogate mothers have their babies with them while the 10 others are expecting their respective chil-

Marcos...

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trilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden and Japan Prime Minister Kishida Fumio in Washington where they discussed ways to strengthen economic and maritime cooperation between the three countries.

He asked Google to increase cybersecurity activity in the Philippines and to come up with a system that will provide efficient digital services for all Filipinos across the country.

The Marcos administration also achieved a milestone by interconnecting the power grids in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, completing several transformative energy projects.

The Mariveles-Hermosa-San Jose (MHSJ) 500-kilovolt (kV) transmission line, inaugurated in July, strengthened Luzon’s power grid, while the Cebu-Negros-Panay backbone project and the Cebu-Bohol Interconnection Project, energized earlier in the year, addressed long-

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He emphasized the importance of resilience and solidarity in overcoming challenges, particularly the calamities that disrupted lives and communities in the past year.

"Reflecting on the resilience we have shown in overcoming [these challenges], it is crucial for our progress to esteem such moments as hallmarks of the extraordinary strength we gain through solidarity and perseverance," the President said.

Mr. Marcos called on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the countless acts of courage, compassion, and bay-

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She vowed to face the upcoming challenges of 2025 with unwavering determination.

“The year 2024 tested our resilience and molded us as a nation that stands for justice and development,” she said in Filipino.

"In 2025, let us together face the various challenges that would solidify us as a country that has faith in god

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Escudero acknowledged the challenges faced by Filipinos throughout 2024 but urged the nation to reflect on the year with gratitude and optimism.

The Senate President reminded Filipinos to carry the spirit of hope and solidarity into the New Year, expressing confidence in the nation’s collective strength.

“Although 2024 presented many challenges for Filipinos, we should reflect on this year with gratitude and optimism, knowing that brighter days lie ahead,” Escudero said.

“Looking ahead to 2025, let us car-

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unity and determination, encouraging them to embrace the New Year as an opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient Philippines.

“As we welcome the New Year, I would like to extend my heartfelt wishes for a peaceful, prosperous and hopeful 2025 to every Filipino family,” he said in Filipino.

Romualdez described the New Year as a fresh start and a chance for collective action to create a brighter future for the nation under President Marcos.

“The New Year is a symbol of a new beginning – an opportunity to work together again and build a stronger future for our people,” pointed out.

The Speaker noted that while 2024 was marked by significant achievements

dren anytime in 2025.

“The reunion with their respective families before the New Year can be considered the best Christmas gift the DSWD can give them,” DSWS Secretary Rex Gatchalian said on Tuesday. In her report to Gatchalian, Assistant Secretary Elaine Fallarcuna of the

standing power instability in the Visayas.

The Mindanao-Visayas Interconnection Project, featuring a highvoltage direct cable with a 450 MW transfer capacity, marked a defining moment for national energy integration.

The President underscored these projects' long-term impact, including lowering electricity costs and enhancing national resilience.

President Marcos also inaugurated the Panguil Bay Bridge, Mindanao's longest bridge, connecting Tangub City in Misamis Occidental to Tubod in Lanao del Norte in September.

The 3.16-kilometer bridge, completed despite delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and funding challenges, reduced travel time between the provinces from two hours to just seven minutes.

The President highlighted its significance for economic growth, faster goods transport, and improved quality of life for over 10,000 daily commuters.

anihan—the Filipino tradition of communal unity and effort—that emerged during times of adversity.

He urged the nation to channel this spirit into building a “Bagong Pilipinas", where opportunities abound and every Filipino can thrive.

"As we move forward into 2025, we look ahead with renewed hope and optimism knowing that our experiences will guide us into building a future filled with promise and purpose," the chief executive said.

The president’s message underscored the significance of introspection and growth, encouraging citizens to balance past realities with tomorrow's promises. Charles Dantes

and collaborates for the good of our families,” she added.

Duterte also expressed heartfelt gratitude to Filipinos for their unwavering love and support for the country, urging everyone to continue their pursuit of excellence and service for a brighter future.

“As we welcome the New Year, I thank you for your tireless love for our country that you have demonstrated through, perseverance and patience for a better tomorrow,” the Vice President said. Rachelle Tonelada

ry this spirit of hope and solidarity into the new year. We can easily overcome any challenge as long as we are united and work together,” he stressed in a mixture of English and Filipino.

Escudero also urged the Filipinos to exercise their right to vote and choose wisely the politicians that they want to elect.

He emphasized that the country needs leaders who will help Filipinos rise out of poverty.

“Addressing the pressing issue of poverty requires leaders who prioritize poverty alleviation and social reforms. By choosing leaders who champion equity and prosperity for all, we can build a brighter future for our nation,” Escudero concluded. Ralph Rirao

in various aspects of national life, it also came with major challenges, particularly the devastating series of typhoons, floods and other calamities.

“The year 2024 has created many indelible memories. We had many successes, but this has also been a year of great challenges – a series of typhoons, floods and other calamities have brought hardship and trials to our countrymen,” the Speaker said.

Despite these challenges, the House chief highlighted the resilience of Filipinos, who exhibited unity and the spirit of Bayanihan in overcoming hardships.

“As we step into 2025, let us carry with us the lessons of the past year. Let us remain united in our resolve to rise above challenges, to rebuild what has been lost and to ensure that no Filipino is left behind,” Romualdez said. Maricel V. Cruz

DSWD cluster for International Affairs and Supervised and Attached Agencies (ASA) said seven surrogate mothers and one baby have already been reintegrated to their respective families.

“After the coordination meeting yesterday (December 30) with the six DSWD Field Offices, it was learned that contacts made with the families of seven surrogate mothers, one of whom has a baby, have proved successful paving the way for their reintegration to their respective families before new year,” Fallarcuna said.

“The first six mothers and the baby

In November, Mr. Marcos inaugurated Phase 1 of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project, adding five new stations and extending the line by six kilometers. The extension, serving 80,000 additional passengers daily, reduces travel time between Baclaran and Bacoor from over an hour to just 25 minutes.

On the legislative front, the administration remains on track in achieving its agenda of further expanding the Philippine economy while protecting the welfare of Filipinos and the country’s interests.

The President signed and approved over 100 laws for both local and national levels this year, eleven of which came from the LegislativeExecutive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC).

Among these priority laws was the New Government Procurement Act. The President was clear on his directive on making public procurement practices at par with international standards.

With the country’s journey to digi-

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coconut flowers serving as a common beverage consumed in tandem with water, tea, or alcohol.

A quarter after Kiribati, the Chatham Islands off the eastern coast of New Zealand are next to welcome 2025.

An hour later, most of New Zealand, Tokelau, Samoa, Tonga, Kiribati's Phoenix Islands, and some Antarctica regions are next in line.

In the next several hours, much of Oceania and parts of other continents take turns entering the new year. These include Fiji, a small portion of eastern Russia, the Marshall Islands and Tuvalu among other Pacific islands, much of Australia, Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, parts of Micronesia, the

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A lleviating Gaps- Flood Mitigation Structures protecting Major or Strategic Public Buildings and Facilities, and P150 million for Basic Infrastructure Program-Flood Mitigation Structures protecting Major or Strategic Public Buildings and Facilities.

The President rejected the highest amount of flood control projects in Region 3 with P7 billion, followed by Region 2 with P3.2 billion.

In November, Mr. Marcos said he supported legislators’ review of the various flood control projects amid a series of typhoons that hit the country, leaving scores of areas flooded for days and even killing over 100 individuals.

Meanwhile, the President urged agencies to use their share of the 2025 national budget responsibly.

On Monday, Mr. Marcos signed the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) after vetoing P194 billion in line items he deemed inconsistent with his administration’s priorities.

The original budget was set at P6.352 trillion, but the vetoes reduced it to P6.326 trillion.

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Furthermore, 72 percent or 136 of the victims are due to illegal firecrackers such as boga, 5 star, and piccolo.

One hundred twenty-three victims or 65 percent of the cases were due to active use of firecrackers.

were reintegrated to their respective families yesterday (Monday). The seventh surrogate mother travelled by plane Tuesday morning and she is now safe with her family,” she added.

Two other surrogate mothers staying with the DSWD’s center and residential care facility (CRCF) are scheduled for reintegration with their respective families on Saturday (January 4).

“The remaining four mothers and two babies will continue in their temporary stay with our CRCF. These are the mothers who expressed intention to stay temporarily until they are ready to

tal transformation, the government also set in place a legislation that would protect financial consumers through the Anti-Financial Accounts Scamming Act. The VAT on Digital Transactions Act, on the other hand, expands and streamlines the authority of the Bureau of Internal Revenue to collect value added tax on foreign digital services. The Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act and the Agricultural Tariffication Act are expected to fortify support to Filipino farmers and protect consumers from unjust increases in prices of basic commodities.

President Marcos also signed into law twin measures – the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act – that are crucial in asserting the country’s sovereign rights and maritime domain, including over the West Philippine Sea. He also boosted support to local defense industries through the SelfReliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Revitalization Act.

Northern Mariana Islands, a small part of Antarctica, and Guam. An hour before the Philippines, mostly Asian countries celebrate the new year. Namely, these are Japan, South Korea, North Korea, a small part of Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Palau, a small part of Russia, and western Australia.

Finally, the Philippines enters 2025 six hours after Kiribati. The country celebrates the new year along with China, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Macao, Brunei, parts of Indonesia, most of Mongolia, Russia's Irkutsk region, and more parts of Antarctica.

On the other hand, among the last places to kick off the 2025 New Year are American Samoa, as well as Hawaii, Alaska, and the outlying islands of the U.S., which are among the territories that will be the last to participate in the New Year’s festivities.

In his veto message made public on Tuesday, the President emphasized that the 2025 budget reflects the “liberal exercise of Congress' power of the purse.”

“I call on the conscientious utilization of this Budget with the end in mind of sustaining the country's high-growth trajectory and managing inflation while accelerating the implementation of well-targeted social services and structural reforms geared towards achieving our medium-term goals of reducing poverty incidence, decreasing unemployment rates, and achieving upper middle-income status,” Mr. Marcos said.

Although the final GAA for 2025 differs significantly from the Executive’s proposed budget, the chief executive reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to “continued implementation and innovation of reforms in public financial management, procurement, and digitalization.”

Mr. Marcos stressed the importance of a “whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach” for a more efficient and transparent public service.

“While we have attained much thus far, we still have a long way to go in achieving a truly inclusive, sustainable and future-proof economy,” he added.

“Eye injury, burnt skin, or severed body parts are the common complaints of firecracker victims recorded,” the health department said in a statement. Meanwhile, the DOH also recorded 39 new road traffic incidents. According to their data recorded from December 22, the total road incident cases are now logged at 496.

go home to their families,” Fallarcuna said. The 13 Filipina mothers were among the 24 foreign women caught by Cambodian police in Kandal province in September 2024 and charged with attempted cross-border human trafficking.

They were sentenced to four years in jail in Cambodia and were later given Royal Pardon based on the appeal by the Philippine Embassy in Phnom Penh and with the endorsement of the Royal Government of Cambodia.

1 dead, 1 missing in Samar vessel sinking — OCD

By Rex Espiritu

ONE died and one remained missing while 13 individuals were marked safe after a vessel submerged in San Jose, Northern Samar on Rizal Day, December 30.

The maritime tragedy struck when MV Jerlyn Khatness, a vessel transporting cement from Naga City, Cebu to San Jose, Northern Samar sank amid rough seas.

"The incident occurred around 2:30 PM, as the vessel was battered by large waves that ultimately capsized it,” the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said in a statement.

By Tuesday morning, the Coast Guard Station in Northern Samar confirmed the sunken vessel's location in the waters near Lavezares.

Of the 15 crew members onboard, 13 were rescued, while one crew member—a 64-year-old male—remains missing. A 30-year-old male was confirmed dead after his body was discovered in Biri.

OCD Eastern Visayas is actively coordinating search and rescue operations led by the Philippine Coast Guard.

To enhance the operations, a request has been made to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) for air assets to assist in the ongoing search and retrieval operations.

Joint efforts with the local Coast Guard, the Municipality of Allen, and nearby towns have been underway since this morning to expedite search operations.

The OCD also reached out to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) in Lavezares for additional resources. An aerial survey was likewise conducted to help expedite search efforts. OCD Eastern Visayas provided hygiene kits to the rescued crew members, addressing their immediate needs while transportation arrangements are being finalized with local authorities and OCD Central Visayas.

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brought out of the Quiapo Church in a yellow carroza for a procession at around midnight.

The image of Jesus carrying a cross was placed on a float, instead of on a platform called andas, which was used to be pulled by the faithful during the procession. This year’s procession was described by organizers as “the most solemn and orderly,” adding that even those who followed the event on social media noticed the behavior of the crowd.

The thanksgiving procession on the last day of the year is held annually ahead of the big religious procession called ‘Traslacion’ every Jan. 9. Traslacion, which means transfer, is often referred to as the Feast of the Black Nazarene. It emulates the “solemn transfer” of the image from its original shrine in the old Manila to the Minor Basilica in Quiapo in 1787. The Black Nazarene is a life-size image of a dark-skinned, kneeling Jesus Christ carrying the cross.

Based on the 8 pilot sites that DOH is monitoring, the recorded cases are 33 percent higher in comparison to last year. There are now 6 recorded deaths of which 4 are related to motorcycle accidents. The newest motorcycle death involves an individual who was not wearing a helmet, the DOH reported. The data shows that 356 out of 496 road-incident cases were due to motorcycles, while 427 of the accidents were caused by the improper use of safety accessories such as helmets for two-wheel riders and seatbelts for cars or similar vehicles.

Fabella Hospital ready to welcome expectant moms

THE Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital in Manila is prepared to welcome expectant mothers likely to give birth on New Year’s Day, a hospital official, quoted by ABS-CBN News, said.

Dr. Jeglen Cruz, the hospital’s senior house officer, quoted by the report, said all staff members are on standby, with medical equipment and supplies ready for use.

As of 8 a.m., three mothers have been admitted and are expected to give birth soon. Among the patients was Arnieth Edaño, 33, who is expecting her fourth child.

The government-run Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, located in the Sta. Cruz district is considered the largest maternity and children’s hospital in the Philippines. According to Cruz, this makes it a key indicator of the country’s birth rate.

“Of course, new life, new grace—it’s a blessing for us. For Filipinos, a new baby is always a new blessing for the family.)

The hospital anticipates more admissions as New Year’s Eve approaches.

“Definitely, we are confident that we are prepared for all the patients that we are going to encounter today until tomorrow morning,” Cruz said.

Authorities

Five children die in fire in residential area in Tondo, Manila Bicol

With Quad Comm, Congress breaks new ground in 2024

By Maricel V. Cruz

THE House of Representatives broke new ground in 2024 when for the first time since its establishment, it consolidated four separate committees to investigate Philippine overseas gaming operators (POGOs), Chinese crime syndicates, the narcotics trade, and extra-judicial killings during the previous administration into a single panel called the “Quad Comm.”

Lawmakers made this decision after realizing there was a common thread tying all those issues together – the Duterte administration.

The four committees and their chairmen were Rep. Robert Ace Barbers of the Committee on Dangerous Drugs, Rep. Bienvenido Abante of the Committee on Human Rights, Rep. Dan Fernandez of the Committee on Public Order and Safety, and Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano of the House Committee on Public Accounts.

The QuadComm was constituted on Au-

gust 12, 2024, to collectively examine and deliberate, via thorough and unified discussions, on the interrelated and complex issues during public hearings on EJKs, POGOs, and illegal drugs.

The Quad Comm held a series of hearings where it compelled big personalities like former President Rodrigo Duterte, dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo, retired colonel and former PCSO chair Royina Garma, among others to appear before the mega panel to give their testimonies which helped the panel to recommended the filing

By Rosas Olarte

the illegal fireworks using a roadroller provided by the regional office of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Among the crushed items were 1,258 units of the makeshift device known as “boga”, a type of improvised cannon commonly associated with injuries and accidents during the holiday season.

Authorities also confiscated 1,514 other types of illegal firecrackers in-

cluding dangerous varieties such as kwiton, kwitis, poppop, baby rocket and pili crackers.

Bicol police regional director PB/Gen. Andre Dizon said the station is ramping up its information campaign by disseminating safety guidelines and warnings against the use of banned firecrackers. Dizon said his office collaborated with the Department of Health (DOH) in Bicol to encourage the public to explore alternative ways to celebrate and create noise during the New Year festivities.

These include using safe and creative options such as banging pots and pans, blowing party horns or organizing small

musical performances without compromising safety or risking injuries caused by dangerous firecrackers.

Julie Ann Granadino, program coordinator on violence and injury prevention program of DOH-Bicol said that serious complications of fireworks-related injuries include amputation, complete blindness and infection which may cause financial and emotional turmoil.

DOH-Bicol said it has already lodged 15 fireworks-related injuries from December 21 to 30, 2024.

Granadino stressed that December 31 to January 1 are critical periods of their surveillance work.

of crimes against humanity against Duterte, along with Senators Christopher Lawrence Go and Ronaldo Dela Rosa, two former chiefs of the Philippine National Police and two other ranking police officers in connection with the alleged extra-judicial killings of more than 30,000 victims during the Duterte administration’s bloody war on drugs.

Before Congress went on Holiday break last Dec. 18, Barbers, the QuadComm overall chair, reported to the plenary the mega panel’s recommendation that was contained in a 43-page progress report, compiled from 13 hearings from August 16 to December 12 this year. It outlined the facts established, evidence gathered, actions taken, and recommendations for remedial legislations concerning EJKs, illegal drugs, illegal POGOs, and anomalous transactions involving local government units in various unlawful activities.

The House is expected to adopt the QuadComm’s recommendations when it resumes session in January 2025,. If approved in the plenary, the chamber would later provide a copy of the report to the Department of Justice and other agencies concerned which shall be tasked to conduct further investigation, gather evidence, and build up a case against the personalities concerned.

The QuadComm said once prima facie evidence is established, the DOJ and other agencies concerned shall file the appropriate charges in court.

Apart from Duterte, Go and Dela Rosa, five other police officers were recommended to be filed with charges under section 6 (other crimes against humanity) of Republic Act 9851, also known as the “Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and other Crimes against Humanity. They were former PNP chiefs Oscar David Albayalde and Debold Sinas; Garma and Edilberto Leonardo and Palace aide Herminia “Muking” Espino.

Enacted in 2009, or two years before the Philippines became a signatory to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, RA 9851 defines and punishes crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity.

Former Sen. Leila De Lima, who appeared as a resource person in several Quadcom hearings, said that RA 9851 holds not just the direct perpetrators responsible, but also those in leadership positions who order and induce such crimes.

During the 9th hearing of Quadcom, she explained that RA 9851, enacted two years before the Philippines became a signatory to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), covers the systematic killings under Duterte’s drug war.

Garma, a former trusted officer of Duterte, disclosed the Duterte administration’s

Davao Model on rewards system to officers involved in EJKs, the Davao Death Squad, the killing of three suspected Chinese drug lords inside the Davao Penal Colony on Duterte’s orders, the formation of a national drug task force which implemented the bloody drug war, among others.

Barbers earlier said when former President Duterte attended the 11th Quadcom hearing last November 13, the latter confirmed the existence of the so-called Davao Death Squad, the Davao Template or Model of reward system to police offices involved in EJKs, advising and encouraging officers to have “nanlaban” (goaded to fight back) scenarios against drug suspects, and assumed “full legal responsibility” of the bloody drug war aftermath.

“The former President unequivocally confirmed the existence of the reward system targeting drug personalities and using leftover campaign funds to finance and support the reward system, in contravention of Comelec rules concerning the return of excess campaign funds,” the lawmaker from Mindanao said, citing the Quadcom panel progress report.

The Quadcom reports said that despite the “noises” being made by some quarters identified with the Duterte camp, the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), in a study, said the bloody drug war during the previous administration resulted only in a slight decline in the number of drug users in the country.

The QuadComm report stated the joint panel has filed four (4) bills to immediately address some legislative gaps on certain laws, and they include HB No. 10986 or an Act classifying EJKs as a Heinous Crime; HB No. 10987 or an Act Prohibiting HB No. 10987 or an Act Prohibiting All Forms of POGOs in the country; HB No. 11043 or an Act Providing for a Civil Forfeiture in Favor of the State any Unlawfully Acquired Real Estate Properties by any Foreign National, and HB No. 11117 or an Act Providing for Administrative Cancellation of Birth Certificates Registered Through Fraudulent Means by Foreign Nationals.

The issue on POGOs and its links to illegal drugs flourished during a September 23, 2023 seizure of some 560 kgs of shabu worth P3.6 billion at a warehouse in Mexico, Pampanga which turned out to be owned by Empire 999 Realty Corporation led by a suspected Chinese drug lord identified as Willie Ong (Cai Qimeng). The Quad Comm investigations indicated that Ong is a Chinese national with a questionable background. When his firm was scrutinized by Barber’s dangerous drugs panel, it revealed that it was registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) with fellow Chinese nationals as incorporators using fake Filipino identities.

GENERAL TRIAS — Cavite police reported that they found an alleged murder victim at Sitio Bagong Silang Cybergreen Extension, Barangay Santiago here. Provincial Police Office of Cavite under Provincial Director Colonel Dwight Alegre identified the victim as alias “Vanessa,” female, 22 years old, with a live-in partner and resident of Brgy Santiago, Gen. Trias City, Cavite. Police also identified the alleged suspects as alias “Nino” and alias “Muslim” both male, of

legal age, and residents of

Brgy Santiago, Gen. Trias City, Cavite. Initial investigation revealed that suspects visited the victim on her nipa hut. After an hour several gunshots were heard and afterward, the lifeless body of the victim was discovered at the irrigation canal nearby. According to the investigation,

HEADBANDS TO WELCOME 2025. Consumers wear headbands which will be used to welcome the New Year. The said headbands are now available for purchase in Divisoria, Manila for P20 to P30 each. Norman Cruz

ILLEGAL FIRECRACKERS. Members of the Bicol police regional office seized 2,772 illegal firecrackers during a two-day operation conducted from December 29 to 30, 2024. The illegal firecrackers were also crushed. Rosas Olarte

2024 sees PH, China straining relations

By Rachelle Tonelada

THE Philippines and China began 2024 with seemingly amicable talks during the Eighth Meeting of the China-Philippines Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) on the South China Sea in January.

Both sides agreed to “improve maritime communication, manage disputes through consultation, and mutually handle emergencies in areas like Ayungin Shoal.” However, by mid-year, these agreements were overshadowed by escalating tensions and repeated provocative act by China in the disputed West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Confrontation at the Ayungin Shoal on June 17 shocked the international community. Departing from the usual tactics of water cannon use, ramming, and towing boats, a Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessel further escalated tensions by severing the thumb of Seaman First Class Jeffrey Facundo of the Philippine Navy (PN) and confiscating eight high-powered firearms.

The CCG also punctured rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) of the Navy critical for resupply missions.

These unprecedented actions drew condemnation from the United States and other allies such as the European Union, Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom, who denounced China’s “aggressive, dangerous maneuvers” that injured Philippine personnel and obstructed lawful maritime operations.

“The US condemns the PRC’s (People’s Republic of China) aggressive, dangerous maneuvers near Ayungin Shoal, which caused bodily injury, damaged Philippine vessels, and hindered lawful maritime operations to supply food, water, and essential supplies to personnel within the exclusive economic zone,” US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said.

US Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Ryder further emphasized that the US government will continue to stand with the Philippines as its major ally and protect its rightful, legal maritime claims in the area, assuring its “ironclad” commitment to the Philippines.

China’s provocations expanded to the Escoda Shoal, another emerging flashpoint in the WPS this year.

CCG vessels collided with Philippine Navy ships BRP Bagacay and BRP Cape Engaño in August amid China’s protest on the deployment of BRP Teresa Magbanua to the area. The same week, the Philippines reported a sharp rise in Chinese vessels near Escoda Shoal, including 53 Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels, nine CCG ships, and nine People’s Liberation Army Navy warships. Despite these Chinese aggressions, Philippine Navy Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad gave assurance that the country remains “undeterred” in asserting its sovereign rights. Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo hinted at the possibility of filing a new arbitral case after a CCG vessel that “intentionally rammed” BRP Teresa Magbanua.

“We have made the necessary approaches to China in terms of contacting them through various means to express our complaint and displeasure at what happened. And not only that, our concern about raising tensions over what was basically just innocent movement by Philippines vessel,” Manalo said. The G7 and other international allies rallied behind the Philippines. The EU denounced China’s actions as violations of international law, specifically the 2016 Arbitral Award and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Japan called for adherence to international law, while New Zealand labelled the ramming of Philippine vessels as part of a “recent pattern of destabilizing actions” in the region.

In October, tensions flared anew when a Chinese vessel sideswiped a Philippine Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ship near Pag-asa Island, causing minor damage.

The BFAR reported that the incident occurred during a routine maritime patrol as China engaged in “dangerous maneuvers” to block its path, coinciding with the ASEAN Summit.

China’s aggression extended beyond maritime confrontations. Beijing issued multiple warnings over Manila’s plans to acquire US-made Typhon mid-range missile system, which would enhance the Philippines’ defense capabilities within its exclusive economic zone.

“Any deployment and procurement of assets related to the Philippines’ security and defense fall within its sovereign prerogative,” Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro asserted.

Teodoro criticized China’s “saber-rattling” and called for the withdrawal of its illegal presence within the Philippines’ waters.

“If the Chinese Communist Party is truly intent on reducing tensions, they should stop their provocative actions,” he said.

Thus far, the Philippines has filed 60 diplomatic protests against China in 2024 alone, bringing the total to 193 under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration.

By Joel E. Zurbano

THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has distributed Malasakit Kits to airports in the Philippines as a token of appreciation for air travelers during the second wave of the holiday rush. The kits, containing essential items like refreshments and hygiene kits, were given away to airports in Davao, Zamboanga, Dipolog, Pagadian, San Jose, Romblon, Bicol,

Virac, Naga, Masbate, Tuguegarao, Tacloban, Calbayog, Borongan, Dumaguete, and Bohol.

CAAP personnel greeted passengers with well wishes and a pleasant trip, demonstrating their commitment to providing safe, secure, and comfortable travel.

“During this peak season of travel, we anticipated the influx of passengers so we always ensure that the CAAP is fully prepared to give our travelers the highest level of

service. With Malasakit Kits, passengers enhance comfort and care while on a journey,” said CAAP director general Capt. Manuel Antonio Tamayo.

As the number of passengers continues to rise, airports operated by the CAAP remain on heightened alert, with Malasakit Help Desks on standby to provide assistance to the passengers.

Meanwhile, the CAAP reiterated its call for travelers to follow regu-

SPD

SOUTHERN Police District director Brig. Gen. Manuel Abrugena has announced the arrest of 46 suspects following a series of operations targeting persons wanted for various criminal charges. Those arrested included 22 “most wanted persons” and 24 others with various criminal records, notably a 42-year-old air conditioning technician from Pasay City who was nabbed on Dec. 23, wanted for a case of alleged violence against women and children, and a 46-year-old family driver who was collared on Dec. 24 for alleged grave threats.

In Muntinlupa City, a man identified only as Jonel, 32, was apprehended on Dec. 23 for possession of illegal drugs. Another suspect, identified as Hermie, 38, was apprehended on Dec. 25 for theft.

“The event served as a reminder that promotions are a reflection of the struggles and perseverance of individuals, with their achievements being recognized and valued.,” the PAF said.

In Parañaque City, a 50-year-old sewing mechanic named Bernie was collared on Dec. 27 over a charge of lascivious conduct under Republic Act No. 7610.

In Taguig City, a man named Ferdinand, 31, and a certain Ryan, 28, were arrested on Dec. 22 and 26, respectively, also for possession of illegal drugs, while 56 year old Arnel was arrested on Dec. 26 for qualified theft.

The Las Piñas City police brought in a certain Allan, 39, on Dec. 26 for theft and one alias Ryan on Dec. 27 for attempted murder.

In Makati City, a certain Margarito, 46, was arrested on Dec. 24 for rape and child abuse, while a 34-year old man named Elmer was apprehended on Dec. 26 for violating a city ordinance.

Abruegena said “these arrests demonstrate the Southern Police District’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law and ensuring community safety.”

He commended the relentless efforts of the police units involved in these operations and reiterated the importance of continued vigilance in the pursuit of justice. Joel E. Zurbano

lations to avoid delays, including rules on prohibited items, monitor belongings at all times, avoid making bomb jokes, which can result in flight disruptions and severe legal consequences.

The passengers were also advised to plan their trip ahead of time and coordinate with their respective airlines, and arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure to ensure a smoother journey during the busy holiday season.

Rizal solon thanks PBBM for signing law on NTRH

By Maricel V. Cruz

RIZAL Rep. Fidel Nograles thanked President Marcos for enacting this week a law establishing the Northern Tagalog Regional Hospital in Montalban town, saying the facility said would provide easier access to healthcare for the people of Rizal and neighboring areas.

“We sincerely thank President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in his signing of our House Bill No. 955, now known as Republic Act No. 12112, or the law that seeks to establish the Northern Tagalog Regional Hospital (NTRH) in Montalban under the Department of Health,” Nograles said in Pilipino.

“We have been dreaming for a long time to provide fast and reliable medical services and free health care to our senior citizens, PWDs (persons with disability), women, and our less fortunate countrymen who no longer have to go out and go further. With Republic Act No. 12112, we can achieve our dream, our new hope,” he said. The lawmaker added that the NTRH would help lessen the burden of Rizaleños who would usually travel to Metro Manila to seek medical and hospital services.

“Right now, the people of Rizal still need to commute and brave hours of traffic for their medical needs. The NTRH, a well-equipped health and medical institution, would eliminate that need, and ensure that not only Montalbeños, but also residents of San Mateo and other towns of Rizal, along with parts of Quezon City, and San Jose del Monte, Bulacan are attended to immediately,” Nograles noted.

Nograles, chair of the House Committee on Labor and Employment, is the author of the said law, which he pushed since his first term in 2019.

The NTRH is a Level II 200-bed capacity hospital under the Department of Health. It is the first national hospital in Rizal, as well as the first hospital in Region IV-A with an infectious disease laboratory.

Nograles said the NTRH will offer such services as consultations for pediatrics medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, and surgery. It will also

PAF PROMOTIONS. Twenty enlisted personnel of the Philippine Air Force’s Air Combat Command promoted to the next rank in Chevron ceremony held Sunday at Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga City, presided by ACC commander Maj. Gen. Araus Robert Musico and deputy chief Col. Joycelyn Antig.

SCRUMPTIOUS LECHON. What would the New Year’s midnight feast (media noche) be like without the mouth-watering lechon which traditionally sell like the proverbial hotcakes during the holidays despite the usual price increase. Manny Palmero

OPINION

New year, new hope

WE ENTER a new year filled with high expectations: that the nation will enjoy political stability underpinned by a regime of law and order; reap the benefits of sustained economic growth and better living conditions for ordinary Filipinos; and strengthen social concord to unite our people behind a clear vision of peace and prosperity in the years ahead.

Easily the single most important political event this year will be the May midterm elections.

This political exercise gives the nation the opportunity to choose who among the candidates for national positions—senators and party-list groups—and local positions, including provincial governors, vice governors, city and town mayors and vice mayors, Sangguniang Bayan at various local levels—deserve to be given the mandate by the people to hold public office.

The Commission on Elections will supervise the holding of clean and honest elections throughout the country. They will be supported by the Philippine National Police and the armed forces to ensure that both the election campaign, voting day and the immediate post-election period where the votes will be counted and the winners proclaimed will be generally peaceful and orderly.

Free and fair, as well as peaceful elections, after all, are a hallmark of a working democracy.

What authorities should guard against is the use of private armed groups by politicians intent on imposing their will on the electorate through intimidation and brute force.

Related to this is the dominance of political dynasties in certain regions and provinces.

The 1987 Constitution has an explicit prohibition on political dynasties to allow equal access to opportunities for public service, except that the framers of the fundamental law left it to Congress to pass an enabling law.

That is the fatal flaw of that specific provision, as lawmakers belonging to political dynasties are not likely to give up their positions of power and influence, if not pelf and privilege, and would want to stay in power for as long as they can.

The political dynasties with little to show in terms of good performance and concrete achievements while in public office are likely to resort to underhanded means, including the use of private armed groups, so they can protect their political and economic interests.

We fully support efforts by some sectors who are saying the Constitutional prohibition on politic al dynasties is “self-executing” and does not really need congressional action to make it work.

Another significant milestone this year is that on June 30, President

Marcos Jr. reaches the half-way mark of his six-year term.

The challenge now for the Chief Executive is to assess what he has done in the past three years and determine which policies and actions have worked and not worked.

The challenge now for the Chief Executive is to assess what he has done in the past three years and determine which policies and actions have worked and not worked

In the political sphere, Marcos Jr. has to deftly manage the breakdown of the UniTeam or the rift with the Duterte political dynasty to consolidate his political base and prevent the Davao-based political family from recovering lost political ground.

If the findings of the recent Quad Comm hearings lead to the indictment of former president Rodrigo Duterte for crimes against humanity on the basis of RA 9851 and this reinforces the ongoing probe of the Hague-based International Criminal Court or ICC for the same offense, then this would significantly clip the wings of what the Quad Comm has described as the former president’s “criminal enterprise” and adversely affect even Sara Duterte’s fond wish to take over the presidency by any means necessary.

In the economic sphere, the administration should focus on attaining food security and taming inflation, since prices of most basic commodities have gone through the roof.

It is disturbing that even before the year ended, the Agriculture Department had warned of a ‘food emergency’ amid rising prices of rice, our staple food.

It is in the foreign policy front, in particular the West Philippine Sea issue, that the Marcos Jr. administration faces immense pressure from the Chinese side that has consistently attacked our victory in the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration as baseless and unfounded.

EDITORIAL

WE BEGIN

May we begin this new year with a courageous look at the past to arm ourselves for the future. —“—

We should continue to build on our growing alliance with friendly nations, such as Japan, Australia and the European Union that have also opposed the bullying and intimidation of our Coast Guard and fisherfolk by the Chinese Coast Guard and their maritime militia to assert our claim over our exclusive economic zone based on the UN Conference on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)

By Melandrew T. Velasco

THE start of 2025 signals new beginnings most especially to newly minted professionals and fresh graduates eager to chart their career paths. Figures from the Philippine Statistics Authority reveal that employment rate for Oct. 2024 was recorded at 96.1 percent or 48.16 million persons. Unemployment rate was at 3.9 percent or 1.97 million unemployed. According to the Oct. 2024 Labor Force Survey wage and salary workers continued to account for the largest share of employed persons and, among wage and salary workers, those employed in private establishments remained to have the highest share at 78.2 percent or 49.9 percent of the total of employed persons.

Many employees seeking better opportunities and even new gradu-

ates have their “employer of choice.”

Job seekers navigate towards companies where they envision meaningful work, career growth, appreciation and recognition for their efforts, fairness, community involvement, inspiring and strong leaders, among others.

The commendations reaped by SMC are testaments to the Filipino workforce

The quality of leaders is essential in every organization. Employees look up to leaders to realize company goals and objectives. American author John C. Maxwell defines “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and

Back to basics

2025 with a plea from the World Health Organization for China to share information on how exactly COVID-19 began five years ago. Experts and policy makers need to understand the pandemic’s origins so the world could confront the next pandemic more effectively.

COVID killed and sickened millions, while some patients continue to

shows the way.”

There are many outstanding business leaders in our country who have made their imprint not only in their organizations but in the country as well. They have been working handin-hand with government to provide a nurturing environment for economic growth.

Among these leaders is San Miguel Corporation’s Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang. Shepherding SMC to become one of the biggest diversified conglomerates in the country was no mean feat.

SMC, now 134 years old, has become an employer of choice for many job seekers, drawn many qualified job candidates, the best and the brightest among them, and has established a reputation as an organization that provides great employee experience, benefits, and company culture.

With over 50,000 employees spread across its subsidiaries, the work force forms the heart and soul of SMC.

These employees undergo rigid screening to ensure qualified, skilled and experienced personnel are tapped to manage and run SMC’s business operations. Employees are given competitive compensation and benefit packages.

To ensure leadership continuity, SMC established succession planning programs for key positions. It adheres

suffer the effects of a long-term affliction. It caused health systems to collapse and economies to slow down or contract. Different countries’ responses were varied, and some coped better than others.

Five years on, the world has recovered, and now many people remember those days of COVID as they would remember a war -- a significant, life-changing event that left bad memories and numerous lessons. That, or a nightmare. Travel has resumed, business has picked up, schools have reopened, and people have gone back to their

to existing labor laws and promotes a harmonious labor-management environment.

SMC has put in place programs to ensure open lines of communication. These programs are the Grievance Machinery, organization of LaborManagement Councils, organization of town halls for non-unionized employees, and speak-ups.

Aside from these, SMC cultivates the spirit of volunteerism among its employees by providing them with opportunities to participate in Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability programs. This also enables them to give back to the communities. Through the years, SMC’s efforts to uplift the lives of its employees by providing them with opportunities to earn, learn, realize their potentials and at the same time maintain their health and well-being have earned accolades for the conglomerate.

Programs for employees are anchored on SMC’s guiding philosophy of “malasakit.”

“At San Miguel, malasakit—a genuine care for one another, our company, and our country—defines who we are.

It’s what creates a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and inspired to do their best,” RSA said.

Recently, SMC was named as the most sought-after employer by online job listing platform JobStreet Philip-

usual ways. Health and economic lessons notwithstanding, it is good to recall the days of the pandemic as we mark the beginning of a new year today. Those days were marked by darkness, uncertainty, and impermanence – the very same things that led people to look inward and ask themselves what was truly important to them. Often, wherever in the world, the answers tended to be the same: Being in the company of loved ones, virtually or otherwise. Staying healthy and starting/ maintaining good habits. Doing something of meaning. Everything else was secondary. COVID is still around but no longer at an alarming rate. Still, let us not lose touch with our realizations during those terrible years. May we begin this new year with a courageous look at the past to arm ourselves for the future, a clear vision of where we want to go, and a renewed commitment to cherish what is truly important.

pines.

SMC is also in the list of Forbes Magazine’s World’s Best Employers in 2024, a recognition it also earned in 2023. It is ranked among the World’s Top Companies for Women 2024 and is included in Time Magazine’s list of the World’s Best Companies. At the 2021 Asia CEO Awards was the Employer of the Year.

The commendations reaped by SMC are testaments to the Filipino workforce. RSA had said: “It also shows that given the right training, motivation, support, and a sense of a higher purpose, the Filipino workforce is highly motivated, effective, dedicated, and therefore fulfilled in their work.”

Being recognized as one of the best employers makes SMC an attractive choice for job seekers to work for. With its various projects, SMC is generating employment opportunities to many Filipinos. It is unwavering in its commitment to create opportunities for growth and contribute to the nation’s progress.

( MTV, book author and publisher, is president and chief executive officer of Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. and the president/executive director of the Million Trees Foundation Inc., a non-government outfit advocating tree-planting and environmental protection.)

This is an AI-generated cartoon with the prompt: generate a cartoon showing a person in the background screaming in agony as the fireworks he is holding exploded. People in the foreground are running away from him. At the bottom of the cartoon put a scroll that says “Have a safe New Year”

where

World greets 2025 after sweltering year of Olympics, turmoil, Trump

The self-proclaimed “New Year’s capital of the world” will spray nine tonnes of fireworks from its famed Opera House and Harbour Bridge at midnight.

More than a million spectators are expected to pack the city’s foreshore to catch a glimpse of the pyrotechnics.

“Just to see all the beautiful colors and enjoy being in this situation with so many people in wonderful Australia,” said 71-year-old retired nurse Ruth Rowse.

SYDNEY—Crowds will marvel at fireworks and toast champagne to greet 2025 on Tuesday, waving goodbye to a year that brought Olympic glory, a dramatic Donald Trump return, and turmoil in the Middle East and Ukraine. It is all but certain 2024 will go down as the hottest year on record, climate-fueled disasters wreaking havoc from the plains of Europe to the Kathmandu Valley. As New Year’s Eve parties kicked into gear along Australia’s picturesque Sydney Harbor on Tuesday afternoon, many revellers were relieved to see the past 12 months in the rearview mirror. “Obviously there’s a lot of war and disruption going on in various places,” insurance worker Stuart Edwards, 32, told AFP as early crowds swelled on Sydney’s waterfront. “It would be nice for the world if it all sort of fixed itself, sorted itself out.”

Jeju Air crash victims given to families

MUAN, South Korea—South Korean authorities began releasing the bodies of plane crash victims to families Tuesday, as investigators raced to determine why the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crash landed and burst into flames.

US investigators, including from Boeing, arrived at the crash site in southwestern Muan, officials said, as South Korean authorities began assessing two black boxes retrieved from the burned-out wreckage of the aircraft.

The plane was carrying 181 people from Thailand to South Korea when

Mexico recovers 31 bodies from secret graves

MEXICO CITY—Mexican authorities said they recovered a total of 31 bodies from pits in a southeastern state plagued by cartel violence since they began excavating the improvised graves at the weekend.

Chiapas State Governor Eduardo Ramirez at the weekend announced an operation to restore stability to Frailesca, an agricultural region near Guatemala where rival drug cartels have been involved in a turf war.

“As of today (Monday), we have found a total of 25 clandestine graves, 31 bodies found, 29 of them male and two female,” said Jorge Luis Llaven, the state prosecutor of Chiapas in a statement.

The Chiapas state government initially said it had discovered 15 bodies on Saturday. A further two were found on Sunday and 14 more on Monday.

The prosecutor said his office and the state security secretariat will continue investigating until they find “each one of the bodies of the people who have been reported missing”.

Mexico’s cartel-related violence is concentrated along drug trafficking routes, borders and ports of entry.

Chiapas state, on Mexico’s southern border, has been described by the InSight Crime think tank as “a major smuggling hub of both drugs and migrants”.

Violence has coincided with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel incursion into areas that were once strongholds of the Sinaloa Cartel, one of Mexico’s biggest drug trafficking organizations, it said. AFP

it made a mayday call and belly-landed before crashing into a barrier and bursting into flames.

Everyone aboard Jeju Air Flight 2216 was killed, save two flight attendants pulled from the wreckage.

South Korea is observing seven days of mourning, with flags flying at half-mast.

Acting President Choi Sang-mok, who has only been in office since Friday, said the accident was a “turning point” for the country, calling for a full overhaul of air safety systems.

He urged officials to “thoroughly reexamine the overall aircraft operation system... and immediately address any necessary improvements.”

“Today marks the final day of 2024,” he said Tuesday, urging citizens to “reflect on the past year and prepare for the new one.”

“I am well aware that whenever challenges arose, both domestically and internationally, all citizens and public officials united with one heart

and mind to overcome these crises.”

At Muan airport, investigators combed over the wrecked fuselage and soldiers picked carefully through the fields around the airport Tuesday, as people left ritual offerings for victims -- including food and letters— near the airport’s perimeter.

“Captain, first officer, and crew members, thank you so much for doing your best to save the passengers. I pray for your eternal rest,” one letter left on the fence said.

Inside the airport, where victims’ relatives have been camped out since Sunday, waiting for information, anger was growing over delays in identifying

passengers on the doomed plane. But officials said they had begun releasing the first bodies to relatives, even as work to identify all victims continued.

“Of the 179 victims, the bodies of four have completed the handover procedures to their bereaved families for funerals,” transport minister Park Sang-woo said at Muan airport Tuesday.

“For 28 victims, whose identities have been confirmed and autopsies completed, we will allow funeral procedures to begin from 2 pm (0500 GMT) today with the consent of their families,” he added. AFP

Treasury

DEADLY GIANT

WAVES. A tanker truck pumps water from a flooded street in front of the Monumental Lighthouse of La Serena after strong waves hit the seafront in La Serena, Chile the other day. Three deaths, one in Chile, have been blamed on large waves up to 13 feet pummeling Ecuador, Chile and Peru, where nearly 100 ports have been closed because of the rough conditions. The phenomenon began on Christmas and is expected to last until today, authorities said. AFP

China says COVID information shared ‘without holding anything back’ Appeals court

BEIJING—Beijing insisted on Tuesday it had shared information on COVID-19 “without holding anything back,” after the World Health Organization implored China to offer more data and access to understand the disease’s origins.

COVID-19, which first emerged in the central Chinese city of Wuhan, killed millions of people, shredded economies and crippled health systems. The WHO published a statement on Monday saying it was a “moral and scientific imperative” for China to share more information.

“Five years ago... China immediately shared epidemic information and viral gene sequence with the WHO and the international community,” foreign ministry

BEIJING—Beijing on Tuesday hit back at accusations that a China state-sponsored actor was behind a cyber breach at the US Treasury Department, calling the claims “groundless”.

The Treasury said the attack resulted in access to some of its workstations, according to a letter to Congress seen by AFP.

According to the Treasury, the incident happened earlier this month, when the actor compromised a thirdparty cybersecurity service provider and was able to remotely access the workstations and some unclassified documents.

China denied the claims, with the foreign ministry saying Beijing “has always opposed all forms of hacker

spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday.

“Without holding anything back, we shared our prevention, control and treatment experience, making a huge contribution to the international community’s pandemic-fighting work,” she told reporters at a regular press briefing.

This month marks the fifth anniversary since the outbreak in Wuhan was first reported. Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO repeatedly criticized Chinese authorities for their lack of transparency and cooperation. A team of specialists led by the WHO and accompanied by Chinese colleagues conducted an investigation

attacks, and we are even more opposed to the spread of false information against China for political purposes”.

“We have stated our position many times regarding such groundless accusations that lack evidence,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said.

The Treasury contacted the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency after it was alerted of the situation by its provider BeyondTrust, and has been working with law enforcement to ascertain the impact.

“The compromised BeyondTrust service has been taken offline and there is no evidence indicating the threat actor has continued access to Treasury systems or information,” the department’s spokesperson said.

In its letter to the leadership of the Senate Banking Committee, the Treasury said: “Based on available indicators, the incident has been attributed to a China state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actor.” An APT refers to a cyberattack where an intruder establishes and maintains unauthorised access to a target, remaining undetected for a sustained period of time.

The department did not provide further details on what was affected by the breach, but said more information would be released in a supplemental report at a later date.

“Treasury takes very seriously all threats against our systems, and the data it holds,” the spokesperson added. AFP

NEW YORK—A federal appeals court on Monday (Tuesday in Manila) upheld a jury verdict ordering President-elect Donald Trump to pay $5 million for sexually abusing and defaming writer E. Jean Carroll.

A New York jury found after a nine-day civil trial last year that the former president had sexually abused Carroll at a Manhattan department store in 1996.

Trump was ordered to pay $2 million for sexual abuse and another $3 million for defaming Carroll, a former advice columnist for Elle magazine. Trump denied the allegations and appealed the verdict on the grounds that two other women who said Trump had sexually assaulted them too should not have been allowed to testify.

The three-judge panel of the Second US Circuit Court of Appeals disagreed.

“We conclude that Mr. Trump has not demonstrated that the district court erred in any of the challenged rulings,” they said.

“Further, he has not carried his burden to show that any claimed error or combination of claimed errors affected his substantial rights as required to warrant a new trial.” Carroll was awarded $83 million by another jury in a separate case she brought against Trump. He has appealed that verdict and Steven Cheung, a Trump spokesman, said the Republican would lodge a further appeal against the $5 million damages awarded in the sexual abuse and defamation case. AFP

HYPED-UP INQUIRY. Police forensics personnel and National Bureau of Investigation officials work at the scene

a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 aircraft crashed and burst into flames at Muan International Airport in Muan, 288 kilometerss southwest of Seoul on Tuesday. The Boeing 737-800 was carrying 181 people from Thailand to South Korea when it crashed on arrival on Sunday, killing everyone aboard -- save two flight attendants pulled from the twisted wreckage of the worst aviation disaster on South Korean soil. AFP

5 sports stars to watch in ‘25

PARIS—

There may not be an Olympics but there is still plenty of sport to look forward to in 2025 and while some will be looking at it as a final swansong, others will see the year as the springboard to sporting greatness.

AFP Sport looks at five young pretenders to keep an eye on over the next 12 months:

Formula 1 - Oliver Bearman

The 19-year-old, who will race alongside Esteban Ocon at Haas, is not going to win the 2025 Formula One title but this will be the season when the young Briton lays down a marker for years to come.

A graduate of the Ferrari driver academy, Bearman made his F1 debut as a late replacement for Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz in Saudi Arabia in 2024. Driving a mature race, he finished seventh, provoking excitement over another young talent joining the grid.

“I always feel like I’m at home when I get in an F1 car, which is nice. And every time I get in an F1 car, I feel more and more at home. It’s a good feeling,” he said.

Athletics - Sembo Almayew

Ethiopia has a wealth of middle and long-distance runners but 19-year-old

Almayew is a star in the making.

In some ways she has already arrived: at the Paris Olympics she was outshone by another youngster, 20-year-old Kenyan Faith Cherotich, but still finished fifth in the 3000m steeplechase.

She then went on to win gold in the U20 World Athletics Championships in Lima in a new championship record.

That resulted in her winning the World Athletics Rising Star for 2024 awards.

The only fly in the ointment has been the visa problems that Ethiopians

currently have with the EU which resulted in Almayew being denied the chance to compete at the Diamond League Finals in September. Hopefully, she will be able to clear the visa hurdle next year as the World Athletics Championships are in Tokyo.

Tennis - Mirra Andreeva

The 17-year-old Russian already served warning of her precocious talent when she reached the last 16 of Wimbledon in 2023 and then again at the Australian Open in 2024, only to eclipse that by

Raducanu pulls out of Australian Open warm-up with back injury

AUCKLAND—Former US Open champion

Emma Raducanu on Tuesday pulled out of the Auckland Classic with a “back niggle” in a blow to her preparations for the Australian Open which starts in less than two weeks.

Raducanu, who was seeded sixth in Auckland, will now fly to Melbourne to begin rehabilitation ahead of the year’s first major

which begins on January 12.

The 56th-ranked Raducanu said she had hoped for a quicker recovery from the recently-acquired back problem.

“I’ve tried my best to be ready. I love Auckland and the fans here. But unfortunately, I’ve picked up a back niggle and I won’t be ready in time,” she said.

It is the latest setback for the 22-year-old Briton, three years on from her major triumph in New York.

She is travelling with a renowned fitness coach, Yutaka Nakamura, in an attempt to better withstand the rigours of professional tennis.

Raducanu missed most of 2023 following wrist and ankle surgery, and was sidelined for two months by a recent foot injury.

Former Australian Open semi-finalist

Elise Mertens also withdrew Tuesday hours before the fifth seed’s first-round match in Auckland.

“I am sorry not to play my singles due to an injury,” the Belgian world number 34 Mertens said.

“I wish the tournament all the best and hope to be back next year.”

Raducanu and Mertens will be replaced in the draw by qualifiers. AFP

reaching the semi-finals at the French Open.

“I definitely knew she was a young player to watch, she was beating very top players,” said coach Conchita Martinez. “I did my homework and immediately could see she has a lot of potential, everybody can see.”

Andreeva’s first WTA title arrived in Iasi, Romania, before she added an Olympic silver medal in doubles in Paris.

Now ranked at 16, that record suggests she is ready to challenge Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka for the No.1 ranking.

Baseball - Roki Sasaki

It is 60 years since Masanori Murakami became the first Japanese player to feature in Major League Baseball but the arrival this season of another pitcher Roki Sasaki could prove almost as exciting.

The 23-year-old from Iwate, who regularly exceeds 100mph on pitches, has been described in the US media as a “generational talent on the mound”.

In 2022, he threw a perfect game with 19 strikeouts, nearly repeating the feat a week later with eight more perfect innings. He has been linked with Los Angeles Dodgers, where he would team up with countryman Shohei Ohtani, but the Chiba Lottes Marines pitcher may have to

some patience as he is too

to sign directly to an MLB contract. Cricket - Vaibhav Suryavanshi Eyebrows were raised in November when Rajasthan Royals bid $130,500 for 13-year-old schoolboy Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who could become the youngest-ever to play in the moneyspinning IPL. The teenage batter’s rise has been swift. He made his domestic debut aged 12 in the Ranji Trophy in January, then was selected for India’s Under-19 squad against a touring Australia team, promptly hitting a 58-ball century.

“He is the kind of player who has come on Earth to play cricket, he settles for nothing else,” said his state coach, Pramod Kumar. AFP

Clinical Swiatek romps at United Cup

PERTH—Iga Swiatek romped to an emphatic victory in her seasonopening match at the United Cup Monday, but Stefanos Tsitsipas crashed as Kazakhstan upset Greece to make the knockout round of the mixed-team tournament.

Five-time Grand Slam winner Swiatek was on court for the first time since news broke in late November that she served a onemonth ban for a doping violation. But the Pole quickly shook off any nerves in Sydney with a 6-1, 6-0 thrashing of Norway’s Malene Helgo.

“Pleased with everything, honestly. I’m happy for sure with the performance,” said the world number two.

“It’s not always easy to play for your country, sometimes the pressure is a bit bigger.

“I feel good, I feel happy, happy I can play tennis overall,” she added. “I’m just going step by step and we’ll see what’s next.”

The 23-year-old tested positive for the heart medication trimetazidine (TMZ) in an out-of-competition sample in August when she was ranked number one.

However, the International Ten-

PH MMA finds its footing in Cordillera’s shadow

FOR years, it’s been said that Philippine mixed martial arts goes wherever Cordillera leads it. And why wouldn’t it? This region has been home to the athletes who, with grit and heart, put the Philippines on the global MMA map. Joshua Pacio, Kevin Belingon, Honorio Banario, Stephen Loman, Geje Eustaquio, and Crisanto Pitpitunge — each of them has donned a major world title and, in their own way, solidified the region’s dominance. And let’s not forget Eduard Folayang, who isn’t just a former world champion but

also remains “The Face of Philippine MMA.” But the accolades don’t stop there. Cordillera’s influence extends to the veterans, ranked contenders, and rising stars. From Edward Kelly to Danny Kingad, from Mark Eddiva to Jhanlo Sangiao — these are just a few of the names shaping the sport’s legacy, all hailing from the highlands. And yet, despite being nestled at 5,900 feet above sea level, far from the modern resources and accessibility of Metro Manila, Cordillera’s athletes stand as the gold standard for Philippine MMA. They’ve maintained a level of excellence that others struggled to match. But it wasn’t just skill. It was an unrelenting work ethic, forged in simplicity and raw determination. It was a relentless drive to outwork anyone, even with the most limited of resources.

In a country where basketball, boxing, billiards, and volleyball have reigned supreme, MMA earned its seat at the table through the sacrifice and determination of these highlanders. In the sport’s early years, it wasn’t just the absence of resources but the absence of a blueprint that made their rise so exceptional. There were no state-of-the-art gyms, no endless sponsors. What they had was a hunger to succeed — a hunger that turned doubters into believers.

But, as with all things, times change. The rest of the country has caught up. Just like the journey from Manila to Baguio City, which now takes just over four hours with the help of the SCTEX and TPLEX, the rest of the Philippines has bridged the gap. This was confirmed in 2024 when Lions Nation MMA went 1-2 at the inaugural Zeus Combat League (ZCL) event in May. Aaron Posawen and Denver Songaben both suffered losses —Po-

nis Integrity Agency (ITIA) accepted that the violation was not intentional and she escaped with a one-month sanction.

While she was in electric form, Greek star Tsitsipas had a day to forget.

He is coming off a mediocre 2024 in which his ranking dropped to its current 11 from a career-high three and was hoping for a confidence-boosting fresh start in Perth.

But he was stunned 6-4, 7-6 (7/0) by 78th-ranked

sawen yielding to Marawi’s Marwin Quirante via submission and Songaben falling to Camarines Norte’s Jayson Miralpez in brutal fashion.

It didn’t end there. At ZCL 2: Supremacy in October, Team Lakay ended the night 0-2, with Joris Jonker losing a hard-fought welterweight title bout to Davao’s Hero Manguray and Estrada Donga-as suffering a brutal knockout at the hands of Negros Occidental’s Kimbert Alintozon.

For long-time fans of Philippine MMA, this was jarring. The Cordillerans, who had once steamrolled through the local competition, seemed vulnerable for the first time. So, what happened? Was it the highprofile exodus that shook Team Lakay to its core in 2023? Or perhaps the limited opportunities for MMA in ONE Championship, where many of our stars reside? The answer, my friends, is simpler than it appears: times have changed. MMA in the Philippines has evolved. We now have a growing list of Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belts. Industry experts

Alexander Shevchenko.

Germany and China go through

“I’m really happy for the team,” said Rybakina, now working with Novak Djokovic’s former coach Goran Ivanisevic. “We all tried hard.

“It was a tough match for me today and I’m so happy to be in the quarter-finals.”

Rybakina took the first set and led 5-0 in the second, but the former world number three Sakkari won three games in a row to threaten a comeback.

Rybakina came through on her third match point as Sakkari mishit an overhead.

“At 5-0 you have nothing to lose, she played more aggressively and hit some good shots,” said Rybakina. Shevchenko called his defeat of a sluggish Tsitsipas “one of the best” of his career.

“He was not at his best today. But I played really well and found the moment to win that match,” he said.

“It will definitely go in my record as one of my best wins.”

Defending champions Germany, led by Alexander Zverev, defeated China 2-1 in the Perth evening session as both nations reached the quarter-finals. AFP

have been coming and going, offering seminars and refining the local scene. Cross-training is no longer seen as taboo. The information that was once elusive is now readily available, right at their fingertips. MMA has grown, and so have its athletes and stakeholders. Today, it’s not just Cordillerans representing the country on the global stage. Fighters like Denice Zamboanga, Fritz Biagtan, and Eros Baluyout are proving that talent exists beyond the mountains.

Is this the dawn of a paradigm shift? It’s too soon to say. But if we learned anything from 2024, it’s this: expect the unexpected. More fighters from all corners of the country are rising up, and 2025 promises to be the next chapter in Philippine MMA’s evolution — a chapter that the pioneers only dreamed of back when they were clawing for respect and recognition. At the end of the day, all athletes, regardless of where they come from, dream of one thing: to leave the sport better than they found it.

Haas F1 Team’s British driver Oliver Bearman attends a press conference ahead of the Formula One Azerbaijan Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit in Baku. AFP

Iga Swiatek

Emma Raducanu

In The Red Corner Nissi Icasiano

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2025

RIERA U. MALLARI, Editor

RANDY M. CALUAG, Asst. Editor

Editor

EDGARD HILARIO, Asst.

Preparations for men’s world volley tilt kick into high gear

PREPARATIONS shift into high gear on New Year’s Day Wednesday as the countdown dwindles to nine months for the Philippines’ first-ever solo hosting of the FIVB Men’s World Championship (MWCH) 2025.

Thirty-one of the world’s top volleyball nations in the 32-team roster will descend on Philippine soil for the September 12 to 28 world championship set at the SM Mall of Asia Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“This is the time when the preparations and organization start to be meticulous every single day, it’s the world championship year of the FIVB and as host country for first time—and solo host at that—the mission borders from an excellent to almost perfect hosting of the event,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, head of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation who in 2024 was elected president of the Asian Volleyball Confederation and executive vice president of the FIVB.

“We’ve done it before and we’re expected to do it again,” added Suzara, who was on top of the country’s co-hosting of the FIBA World Cup in 2023 as its chief implementor.

Adding confidence to a potentially best-ever edition of the FIVB MWCH 2025 is Malacañang’s commitment that was forged during the first top level organization meeting at the Palace on April 30, 2024, that was presided over by First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos and William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos, co-chair of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) with Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, also PNVF chairman emeritus, and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.

The commitment was broadened in last September’s One-Year Countdown and Drawing of Lots at Solaire that was followed immediately by the “Concierto sa Palacio,” a night of music held at the Malacañang grounds with no less that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Marcos and the young Marcos hosting top FIVB and LOC officials.

Then FIVB secretary-general now president Fabio Azevedo praised President Marcos and the First Family for their enthusiasm in volleyball and sports as a whole.

“It was fantastic to see how committed the President [Marcos] is in promoting volleyball and it’s as fantastic to see the volleyball euphoria in the Philippines,” said Fabio, who gifted President Marcos a painting by Slaven Dizdarevic, an Olympian decathlete from Slovakia, during the “Concierto.”

Government’s high-level involvement in the world championship also got rolling with the first InterAgency Technical Working Group Meeting initiated

PH sambo ends year on a high

By Randy Caluag

THE Philippine Sambo Team concluded 2024 with a triumphant performance at the Asia and Oceania Open Beach Sambo Championships, held recently in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

National Training Pool standout Cresente Navares delivered an outstanding showing, winning gold in the beach team sambo event and bronze in the 71kg men’s sambo category while John McLeary Ornido, earned a silver medal in the same division.

The team was guided by Coach Sydney Sy, whose expertise has played a crucial role in advancing the sport in the country.

Paolo Tancontian, president of the Pilipinas Sambo Federation, expressed optimism for the future. “As we look forward to the new year, we are confident that Pilipinas Sambo will continue to soar to greater heights and inspire future generations of athletes,” said Tancontian, who was re-elected to a fresh four-year term during the recent board

of trustees meeting in Davao City. Tancontian, a Davao City-based martial artist and founder of the Sambo National Sports Association (NSA), will serve as president from 2025 to 2028. Upon his re-election, he expressed gratitude for the community’s unwavering trust in his leadership and commitment to grassroots development. “I am honored to have been re-elected as President of the Philippine Sambo Federation (PSFI). I extend my deepest appreciation to all our members for their unwavering support and belief in our shared vision: to elevate and expand the reach of Sambo within the Philippines. We are committed to surpassing our previous accomplishments and driving Sambo to even greater heights with our newly elected officers. We will work tirelessly to ensure its continued growth and success. Maraming salamat po sa inyong tiwala at suporta,” Tancontian said. The past year has been exceptional

By Peter Atencio

THE Philippine national men’s football team has reached a new level of playing the sport and it took years for a new generation of players to get there.

Coach Albert Capellas said this after the Filipino side came close to beating two-time champion Thailand from its title-retention bid in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024.

“We just arrived at this level. For a lot of years we couldn’t play these type of games, to fight until the last second against Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam,” said Capellas after his wards fell to a 1-3

by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) last November at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

The Local Organizing Committee for the FIVB MWCH 2025 is also composed of Senator Pia Cayetano, Manuel V. Pangilinan, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and PSC chairman Richard Bachmann.

Significant activities will precede the world championship, including the International Road Show spread over the first half of the year and Mascot Contest and Launch, Trophy Tour, Media Broadcast Conference, Team Managers Meeting, Test Event and 100-Day Countdown in June.

The Philippines is in Pool A with 11-time African champion Tunisia, current Africa titlist and Paris Olympian Egypt and 2024 Asian championship runner-up Iran.

World No. 1 Poland wisas in Pool B with Romania, Qatar and The Netherlands, while Volleyball Nations League champion France was grouped in Pool C with Korea, Finland and Argentina; the United States in Pool D with Colombia, Portugal and 2010 silver medalist Cuba; Slovenia in Pool E with Chile, Bulgaria and 2014 bronze medalist Germany; 2022 world champion Italy in Pool F with Algeria, Belgium and Ukraine; Libya, European league 2023 winner Turkiye and Canada in Pool G; and Brazil, 2024 Challenge Cup winner China, Czech Republic and Serbia in Pool H.

for Philippine Sambo. The country achieved significant success on the international stage, with Sydney Sy-Tancontian and Jeniva

loss on Monday in the second semifinal leg in Bangkok.

This allowed the Thais to overturn a first-leg deficit when action ended before a big crowd of more than 31,000 at the Rajamangala Stadium.

Capellas thanked the Filipino fans, who came to support and witness Team Philippines fight against the world no. 97th-ranked Thais.

“It’s the first time we are here after a lot of years. We have to learn from this experience. Thailand has been there a lot of years,” added Capellas.

The War Elephants are on to their 12th finals’ appearance since 1996 and will

Belingon prepares for 5th duel with Fernandes

KEVIN “The Silencer” Belingon admitted that fighting Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes again was the last thing on his mind as he wrapped up 2024.

But as fate would have it, it seems like their stories are forever intertwined. They’re now set to fight for an unprecedented fifth time at ONE 171: Qatar on February 20, 2025, inside Lusail Sports Arena in Doha. This fight is a fitting conclusion to their eight-year rivalry dating back to 2016, when Belingon showed up as the perfect challenger to then-dominant bantamweight king Fernandes.

“When the fight was offered, of course I was surprised. I never expected to fight him again,” Belingon said.

“But then I thought, I’ll get the chance to settle the score, so I’m truly excited. I feel blessed to still compete.” That excitement, though, could be his foil. Fernandes remains one of the craftiest fighters in the weight class, someone who could turn one of his opponent’s mistakes into a winning opportunity.

Belingon knows all about that, and he’s making sure to keep his head in the game when they meet.

“I have to stick with my game plan. I don’t want to rush, I don’t want to be careless,” he said.

“We’ll be working on a really solid game plan for this fight, and it’s all about sticking with the game plan.”

He’ll be well equipped to go toeto-toe with Fernandes now, especially since he used his time away from the ring to focus on his grappling. And he believes his new-found confidence on the ground will show in this fight.

Hart triple-double sparks Knicks to 8th straight win

WASHINGTON—Josh Hart delivered his third triple-double of the season on Monday to spark the New York Knicks to a 126-106 victory at Washington that stretched their win streak to eight games. Hart had 23 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists for his ninth triple-double with the Knicks while Karl-Anthony Towns had a game-high 32 points and 13 rebounds.

Consigna earning bronze medals at the World Beach Sambo Championships, and Aislinn Yap also bagging a bronze at the World Sambo Championships.

meet Vietnam in the championship round. They advance to the finals off a 4-3 aggregate score, recovering from last week’s 1-2 loss to the Philippines.

“For this generation of players, this is the first time. All I can promise is that we’ll learn from this and we’ll become stronger,” said Capellas. Capellas was mulling the outcome of a exhausting campaign, with the team playing six games in 18 days.

The War Elephants drew first blood from skipper Peeradol Chamrasamee, who scored on the 37th minute before Patrik Gustavsson made it 2-0 in the 55th minute in the second half.

Jalen Brunson and O.G. Anunoby each scored 18 points for New York, which improved to 23-10. The Knicks led 59-57 at half time over the Eastern Conference doormats and pulled away in the third quarter before dominating the fourth to win.

“We executed, we got stops, we played fast,” Hart said. “We played to our strengths. Sometimes it takes us a little while to wake up. We always do.” At Salt Lake City the Denver Nuggets got triple-doubles from Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook in beating the Utah Jazz 132-121.

Jokic had 36 points, 23 rebounds and 10 assists while Westbrook contributed 16 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists to ignite the Nuggets.

Michael Porter added 21 points for Denver while Jamal Murray and Christian Braun each scored 20 for the Nuggets (18-13). The NBA-best Cleveland Cavaliers, led by 25 points from Darius Garland and 23 by Donovan Mitchell, rolled over host Golden State 113-95 to improve their win streak to seven.

Reserve Moses Moody led the Warriors with 19 points while Stephen Curry managed only 11 points on 4-of-14 shooting, 3-of-11 from three-point range. AFP

Paolo Tancontian (extreme right) with some members of the sambo national team

First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos and William Vincent ‘Vinny’ Araneta Marcos (seventh and sixth from left) with (from left) Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) vice president Ricky Palou and secretary-general Donaldo Caringal, Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, Volleyball World CEO Finn Taylor, PNVF president Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara and national team mainstay Bryan Bagunas make the victory sign after the first organizational meeting for the world championship in Malacañang on April 30, 2024.

Goalie Quincy Kammeraad makes a save.

Kevin Belingon

MIC not returning P75b infused by LandBank, DBP

MAHARLIKA Investment Corp. (MIC) will not return the P75-billion capital infused by state-run Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines in the sovereign wealth fund, its top executive said in a radio interview. “No, it was contributed to the capital,” MIC president Rafael Jose Consing Jr. said in an interview on Super Radyo dzBB. Consing was asked if the fund would return the capital infused by LandBank and DBP following the comment by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the financial condition of the two state-owned lenders. President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. in July 2023 signed into law Republic

Act No. 11954, or the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) Act of 2023, establishing the Philippines’ first sovereign wealth fund aimed at boosting the country’s economic growth. LandBank and DBP infused P50 billion and P25 billion, respectively into the MIF. The IMF said in a report that “implementing capital restoration plans for two state-owned banks following their contribution to the Maharlika Investment Corporation’s start-up capital and exiting regulatory relief as soon as possible is important.” Consing said the IMF did not suggest that MIC return the capital to LandBank and DBP, but underscored

International visitor receipts reached record P712b in 2024

By Othel V. Campos

“With optimism and unwavering belief in our vision under President Marcos, and with the invaluable support of our stakeholders, the DOT will execute programs that not only enhance our global standing but also deliver tangible benefits to every Filipino,” Frasco said.

2025 BUDGET. Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman joins other Cabinet officials in a news briefing following the signing of the 2025 General Appropriations Act.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law Republic Act No. 12116 on Dec. 30, 2024 at Malacañan. The president said the national budget reflects ‘the government’s commitment to transforming economic gains into meaningful outcomes for every Filipino’.

She highlighted the industry’s growth in key metrics such as tourism employment and revenues, emphasizing their transformative impact on Filipino livelihoods and communities.

Frasco acknowledged challenges that hampered international arrivals,

including visa delays, economic pressures, and geopolitical issues.

Despite these hurdles, the DOT pushed for reforms, such as the Cruise Visa Waiver program and the implementation of e-visa systems for key markets like India. It also shifted its focus from sheer visitor numbers to quality tourism indicators, including longer stays, repeat visits, and increased spending.

International visitor receipts reached P712 billion from January to mid-December 2024, up from 2019’s P600 billion. Meanwhile, the average tourist

By Darwin G. Amojelar

GLOBE Telecom Inc. said it intensified its efforts to combat the growing online fraud in the Philippines.

Globe said its award-winning Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) reached 6,196 participants this year, educating them on digital citizenship, cybersecurity and ethical technology use.

The company said that in November, 450 individuals in Ilocos Sur, Pampanga, Rizal and Davao del Norte benefited from DTP workshops. These sessions provided invaluable lessons on cybersecurity awareness,

empowering individuals and families to protect themselves against prevalent online scams.

A recent GASA study highlighted the urgency of these efforts, revealing that one in three Filipinos experienced attempted fraud in the past year.

Despite 73 percent of respondents claiming they could recognize scams, many still fell victim.

Such findings underscore the urgent need to educate Filipinos about the perils that lurk online.

“With the accelerated digital transformation comes growing online threats, particularly fraud, to

which more and more Filipinos fall victim every day. These threats rob online customers of their hard-earned money, impacting their mental and physical health,” said Yoly Crisanto, chief sustainability and corporate communications officer at Globe.

“Globe believes the antidote is education, that’s why we are bringing DTP to schools across the country. If our young people are aware of what to look out for and how to protect themselves online, they will get to enjoy the benefits of technology safely, spared from becoming another scam statistic,” she said.

GOVERNMENT financing reached P1.24 trillion in the first 11 months of 2024, according to the Bureau of the Treasury.

The government raised more than P351 billion from the international market and over P894-biillion from the domestic debt market from January to November based on the BTr’s cash operations report. Government financing refers to the difference between gross borrowings and debt amortization.

Data showed that gross borrowings reached P2.49

stay increased from 9 nights in 2019 to over 11 nights in 2024, with 70 percent of visitors being repeat travelers.

According to the April 2024 Labor Force Survey, tourism employed 16.4 million Filipinos, accounting for 34 percent of the nation’s workforce. CALABARZON led employment figures at 2.9 million, followed by NCR and Region III, each with over 2.5 million workers.

“These numbers underscore tourism’s critical role in generating livelihoods and uplifting communities nationwide,” Frasco said.

DTI asks revelers to buy registered, safe fireworks

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issued a stern reminder to consumers to prioritize safety and responsibility when purchasing fireworks for the New Year revelry.

DTI Secretary Cristina Roque underscored the importance of choosing only certified fireworks to prevent accidents and ensure a safe and prosperous celebration.

“As we usher in a New Year, it is crucial to remember that safety should always be our top priority. By purchasing certified fireworks, consumers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, allowing everyone to enjoy the festivities with peace of mind,” Roque said.

To assist consumers, the DTI, through the Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), published a comprehensive list of certified fireworks on its official website. This list serves as a reliable guide, helping consumers make informed choices by selecting products that meet rigorous safety standards.

The DTI said it remains vigilant in protecting consumers and ensuring a safe holiday season for all.

“We encourage everyone to check the official list of certified fireworks before making any purchase and support our efforts in promoting safety. Let us celebrate responsibly and prioritize the well-being of ourselves and our loved ones,” Roque said. Othel V. Campos

QR PAYMENTS. Roxas City vice mayor Teresa Almalbis (second from right) buys fruits, using quick response (QR) codes during the Paleng-QR Ph Plus program launch at the city’s Paseo del Rio Teodoro Arcenas Trade Center on Dec. 5, 2024. The program aims to promote e-payments in markets, public transportation, and other businesses via QR Ph, the national standard for QR codes.

Bounty Fresh chooses PLDT to integrate connectivity

By Darwin G. Amojelar

PLDT Enterprise, the corporate arm of PLDT, teamed up with Bounty Fresh Group Holdings Inc., the parent company of Chooks-to-Go, to deliver integrated connectivity and communication solutions aimed at improving operational efficiency and enhancing customer experiences.

“At PLDT Enterprise, our mission is to help businesses thrive by providing technology their company needs to enable seamless operations and build stronger customer connections,” said Jay Lagdameo, vice president and head of Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise.

“This partnership with Chooks-toGo demonstrates our commitment to driving business success ensuring they remain competitive in an increasingly digital world,’ he said.

Known for its iconic roast chicken, Chooks-to-Go previously faced operational hurdles due to limitations in traditional SIM-based internet systems. These challenges led to service disruptions and inefficiencies during high-demand periods, impacting both operations and customer satisfaction.

With the shift to PLDT Enterprise’s fiber network, Chooks-to-Go now benefits from high-speed, reliable internet that ensures uninterrupted operations across all branches.

The infrastructure provides higher bandwidth and unlimited internet access, empowering the business to scale efficiently.

AirAsia PH designated Muslim-friendly airline

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) said it is set to formalize an agreement with AirAsia Philippines, officially designating it as a Muslim-friendly airline to enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco confirmed that the agreement would be signed in January 2025.

“This dedication to inclusivity has allowed the Philippines to earn recognitions, such as the Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year for non-OIC Countries at the Mastercard CrescentRating Global Muslim

Xiamen Airlines launches new Chongqing-Manila route

By Michael Wong Ho

XIAMEN Airlines launched a new international route connecting Chongqing, China to Manila, with a stopover in Quanzhou.

The new flight, which commenced on Dec. 30, 2024, will help strengthen ties between China and the Philippines, further facilitating cultural, economic and trade exchanges.

The route departs from Chongqing at 9:35 a.m., with an arrival in Quanzhou at 11:50 a.m.

After a short layover, the flight departs Quanzhou at 1:35 p.m., reaching Manila at 4:10 p.m.

The addition will not only streamline travel between these key cities but also expand Chongqing’s connections with other RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partner-

ship) member countries.

Xiamen Airlines said this route is part of a broader strategy to enhance Chongqing’s connectivity with the Asia-Pacific region, strengthening its relationship with Manila, a friendly sister city.

By facilitating easier travel and fostering greater exchange, the new service is expected to further boost tourism, business and cultural interactions between the two cities.

The airline also indicated that future flight schedules will be adjusted and announced in accordance with demand and operational plans.

Xiamen Airlines, headquartered in Xiamen, Fujian Province, is a leading Chinese carrier, known for its commitment to high-quality service and extensive domestic and international networks.

Travel Index announced during the Halal in Travel Global Summit 2024 in Singapore,” she said. Visitor arrivals from Muslimmajority countries posted significant growth, with 547,197 visitors recorded from January to November 2024, a 9.8-percent increase from 2023.

The Philippines had 17 DOT-recognized Muslim-friendly accommodation establishments (MFAEs) as of Dec. 5, 2024, 13 of which are Megaworld Hotels and Resorts properties. The DOT earlier signed a memorandum of understanding with Megaworld Hotels.

Other developers also committed to converting their properties into Muslim-friendly standards by next year.

AirAsia teamed up with the Universal Islamic Center (UIC) and the Philippine Halal Trade & Tourism to enhance its offerings for Muslim travelers.

The collaboration will allow Halalcertified meal options to be served on all flights.

Asian stocks slump as expected Wall Street ‘Santa’ rally turns into mini-rout

ASIAN stocks ended the year in the red on Tuesday after worries about 2025 and profit-taking turned Wall Street’s usual holiday-period “Santa Claus rally” into a mini-rout.

The three main US indices all slumped around one percent on Monday, adding to Friday’s losses, with Tesla down 3.3 percent and Facebook owner Meta off 1.4 percent.

Volumes were thin but brokers said investors were locking in gains after a bumper 2024, particularly for the “Magnificent Seven” troop of US tech giants.

Concerns about the slow pace of US interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve and uncertainty about incoming president Donald Trump’s tariff plans were also souring the mood.

“In Asia, notably China, tariffs may appear to be a manageable obstacle if

they were the only concern,” said Stephen Innes at SPI Asset Management.

“However, China’s economic difficulties go well beyond simple trade conflicts. The nation is also contending with serious domestic consumption challenges and self-induced setbacks in its technology sector,” Innes said.

China’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for manufacturing was 50.1 in December, signaling a third consecutive month of expansion, official data showed on Tuesday.

“Increased policy support towards the end of the year has clearly provided a near-term boost to growth,” said Gabriel Ng of Capital Economics.

Tokyo was shut on Tuesday, with the Nikkei 225 posting on Monday its best year-end close since Japan’s asset bubble burst in the 1990s.

Medical Center (CMC) in Laguna holds its first event for children with health conditions (congenital heart disease, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, hydrocephalus, leukemia, colostomy and global developmental delay) on Dec. 28, 2024. The hospital welcomed more than 50 young participants from different areas in the province.

CMC in Laguna hosts charity event for kids

By Roy Tomandao

CALAMBA Medical Center (CMC) in Laguna held a charity event for children with health conditions on December 28, 2024. welcoming more than 50 young participants from different areas in the province.

These children have congenital heart disease, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, hydrocephalus, leukemia, colostomy and global developmental delay).

The event, titled “Little Brave Warriors”, was organized to celebrate and support these children and their families. It featured games, cash prizes, grocery giveaways for media noche and donations from CMC employees.’

“From the leadership of Calamba Medical Center, it is an honor to open our doors to special children, especially those who need special attention and care,” said Lirio Lomarda, CMC marketing and business development head. She also praised the mothers, calling them heroes for their unwavering dedication to their children.

“Let’s give an applause to all mothers who bravely attend to the needs of their children despite the challenges,” Lomarda said.

Lomarda announced CMC’s commitment to supporting similar events in the future and establishing a dedicated clinic.

“We already have the CORE center for occupational rehabilitation and early intervention. We are working to create ZBen package for Philhealth to cover the rehabilitation and therapy of children with special needs,” she said.

German flying taxi startup Volocopter files for insolvency

FLYING taxi startup Volocopter said Monday it was filing for insolvency, days after another fellow German company in the field, Lilium, was saved from collapse.

“Despite recent intensive fundraising efforts, finding a viable solution to maintain regular operations outside of insolvency proceedings has not been possible,” Volocopter said in a statement, adding that the filing was made on Dec. 26.

CUSTOMER

SERVICE. Negros Electric and Power Corp. organizes a series of ‘Negros Power Saya sa Barangay’ events, bringing exciting games, prizes, and a spirit of celebration to the heart of the communities. The event is a powerful demonstration of empathy, community spirit, and a commitment to customer-centric service.

The company, founded in 2011, is now on the hunt for investors, and court-appointed administrator Tobias Wahl said that the aim was “to develop a restructuring concept by the end of February”. Volocopter had been aiming to enter the market in 2025 with its two-seater “Volocity” electric air taxi model.

It suffered a setback when it had to cancel test flights in Paris during this summer’s Olympics at short notice when the certification for its aircraft engine didn’t come through in time.

In December, Volocopter said that the Volocity model had fulfilled 75 percent of the criteria required by the European Union’s Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

The firm is also working on a five-seater model which it hopes to present in 2027.

Germany’s entrants in the burgeoning “electric vertical take-off and landing” (eVTOL) sector have struggled to keep up with US and Chinese competition.

Last week, a company set up by a consortium of European and North American investors swooped in to save Lilium, which had filed for bankruptcy in October.

Lilium has also been developing small electricpowered jets that can take off and land vertically. That case renewed debate about Germany’s support -- or lack thereof -- for the country’s startup scene. Critics have long lamented a dearth of funding for young, innovative companies, comparing the situation in Germany unfavorably with that in the United States and elsewhere.

In October, Lilium’s boss Klaus Roewe said that other countries were actively backing his firm’s rivals in a highly competitive field.

Volocopter CEO Dirk Hoke told Capital magazine this yearthat “in a sector which is as technologically complex and capital-intensive as ours, we have to look to the state” for support. AFP

Calamba

Xiamen Airlines launches a new international route connecting Chongqing, China to Manila with a stopover in Quanzhou.

BUSINESS

DTI to boost intra-ASEAN trade

amid impending PH exit from GSP+

By Othel V. Campos

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is intensifying efforts to boost intra-ASEAN trade and investments as part of its strategy to mitigate the potential impacts of the impending graduation of the Philippines from the European Union’s Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+) by 2026.

DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque emphasized the importance of diversifying trade partnerships and attracting foreign investments.

P.A. Alvarez readies expansion as it marks 30 years of operations

PROPERTY developer P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corporation is celebrating 30 years of empowering Filipino families through affordable homes and sustainable communities.

Having provided homes for over 30,000 families, P.A. Properties celebrates the anniversary by recognizing the inspiring stories of growth, triumphs and new beginnings.

P.A. Properties earned multiple distinctions in 2024 for its contributions to Philippine real estate. The company was among the Top 10 Pag-IBIG Fund Accredited Developer in South Luzon and achieved the Highest Conversion Performance among Pag-IBIG Fund developers in the region in 2023.

It also secured the No. 9 spot among Pag-IBIG Accredited Developers in North Luzon for 2023 and continued to excel in 2024, being among the Top 10 Developers in both North Luzon and NCR during the first half of the year.

It was also recognized as a leading taxpayer, earning a Top 100 Taxpayer position in San Pedro, Laguna, in May 2024 and as one of the Top 200 Corporate Taxpayers in Cabuyao for Fiscal Year 2023.

These honors highlight the company as a responsible corporate citizen, and its commitment to sustainable growth and community development.

The company is introducing the Mori House Model at Idesia Cabuyao East, Cabuyao, Laguna — a perfect blend of modern design and comfortable living, launched this year as part of P.A. Properties’ commitment to creating vibrant communities.

“We have trade missions and engagements with countries that already have investments here. We want them to invest more,” Roque said.

She highlighted ongoing plans with other government agencies, such as the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), to ensure seamless implementation next year.

Roque revealed active discussions with various international partners, including Japan, Israel, and India.

“We’re still in talks with the Japanese minister. We also met with the Israeli ambassador and a company from India exploring opportunities in healthcare and pharmaceuticals,” she said.

Roque also emphasized investments from the Middle East and opportunities arising from the Korea-

Philippines Free Trade Agreement, which took effect on Dec. 31, 2024.

PEZA director-general Tereso Panga echoed the need to strengthen intra-ASEAN trade, citing its resilience amid global disruptions.

“This year, foreign and local investments are balanced at 50-50. Beyond traditional export markets in the US and Europe, we’re promoting intra-ASEAN trade and investments,” Panga said.

He said global investors, including those from the EU and the US, are increasingly eyeing the Philippines as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region.

PhilHealth told to increase benefits for 10 common illnesses

THE Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) was told to increase its benefit packages for the 10 most common illnesses in the country.

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto made the call during a news briefing in Malacañang following the signing of the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Recto said raising PhilHealth’s benefit packages would ensure the effective use of the state health insurer’s funds.

“Maybe we should focus on the top 10 illnesses. I think that’s it. Let’s increase the benefit package for the top 10 illnesses by 100 percent, even 200 percent. This would greatly benefit the public,” he said. PhilHealth did not receive any subsidy allocation under the 2025 GAA signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Recto said PhilHealth has P280 billion in reserve funds.

“My understanding is that Congress did that because the operating budget of PhilHealth is sufficient,” he said.

“They have a surplus of roughly 150 billion pesos the last time I looked at it. They have investments of more than P400 billion. They will probably earn P200 billion in 2025. They will spend the P150 billion,” Recto said.

Recto said the Department of Finance would scrutinize PhilHealth’s expenditures to ensure that funds are effectively utilized next year.

Budget approval to create great strides for rural electrification program

By Alena Mae S. Flores

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian said

Tuesday the approval of the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for 2025 will pave the way for significant strides in the Marcos government’s rural electrification program.

“We hope that the budget allocation for the National Electrification Administration for 2025 would help push the rural electrification program to its completion in the next couple of years,” Gatchalian said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

signed the 2025 GAA which authorizes an expenditure program of P6.352 trillion.

Under the approved budget, NEA was allotted a government subsidy of P1.87 billion to provide electricity for about 22,000 households through the implementation of its strategic rural electrification.

The NEA earlier said inadequate government subsidy was the biggest challenge to the attainment of 100-percent rural electrification.

Gatchalian said some 4.214 million households throughout the coun-

P.A. Properties launches its latest initiative, P.A. Harvest, an innovative program in the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. Attending the launch are Joren Reyes, assistant vice president, property management & project delivery; Jonathan Jerusalem, senior vice president for sales and marketing; Armando De Guzman, SVP and executive assistant to the board and ExeComm; Lawrenz Joseph Alvarez, director; Marianne Lina-Cruz, president and CEO; Jonathan Lu, vice chairman; Peter Jude Alvarez, operations director; Maria Fatima Julia Javier, head of human resources; Mariejun Victoria Alvarez, director; Louis Alvarez, director, corporate treasurer; Giselle Alvarez-Pili, director for corporate affairs; and Florlita Tabuzo, SVP for joint venture sales and marketing and commercial business unit.

SHFC conducts relief operations for typhoon-hit communities

THE Social Housing Finance Corp. (SHFC) initiated a Christmas relief drive to help communities impacted by recent typhoons that hit the Cagayan Valley and Bicol region. Held on Dec. 21, the initiative provided much-needed support to over 1,000 families affected by the calamities.

In Cagayan, more than 650 members from Maura Rotary Village Homeowners’ Association, Inc. (HOAI), Tabacalera CMO HOAI, and Minanga Aparri CMP HOAI received relief packs distributed by SHFC.

In Bicol region, more than 450 beneficiaries from Barangay Igualdad (Zone 5) HOAI, Canda Neighborhood HOAI, Del Rosario HOAI, Isefa HOAI, LBC Village HOAI, Lerma Urban Poor HOAI, Nazareno Urban Community HOAI, Villa Robredo HOAI, Samahan ng mga Benepisyaryo Agraryo para sa Kaunlaran ng Binauaanan (SBAKB) HOAI, and Santiago Urban Village HOAI from Pili and Naga City, Camarines Sur and Daet, Camarines Norte were provided with essential supplies.

The relief effort aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call to redirect savings from scaled-down Christmas celebrations toward assisting communities severely impacted by the recent typhoons.

“Our hearts go out to all the families affected by the recent disasters,” SHFC president and chief executive Federico Laxa said.

“Through the collective efforts of our team, we were able to bring early Christmas gifts and muchneeded relief to our member-beneficiaries in Cagayan Valley and the Bicol region,” said Laxa.

try were still without electricity as of June 2023. The government aims to reach total electrification in the country by 2028.

While the five-year plan to achieve 100-percent electrification by 2028 has been progressing, the government needs to ensure that such a target will be achieved through budgetary support, the senator said. He said economic development, particularly in rural areas, would be difficult to achieve without electricity as it is a major factor in attracting investments and in the operations even

of micro and small business enterprises.

“Electricity is a basic necessity for the various businesses we need in remote areas to provide employment and for continued economic development,” Gatchalian said.

Electrification in the country stood at 89 percent in 2023, rising to 91 percent in 2024.

Based on the five-year electrification plan, the government aims to increase coverage to 94 percent by 2025, 97 percent by 2026 and 100 percent by 2027.

Welcome Supermarket Rotunda in Quezon City closes after 76 years

WELCOME Supermart near Welcome Rotunda in Quezon City closed its doors to shoppers on New Year’s Eve after more than 76 years of operations.

The supermarket, established by businessman Benito Cua Sun Sing in 1948, announced that it would be closing its doors permanently after store hours on Dec. 31, 2024.

It held a closing-out sale on Dec. 31 to serve its loyal customers for the last time.

“Due to the rising cost of operations, we have to close our doors to you on our last day, 31 December 2024, after 76 long years of operating on this spot.

It’s sad but our dad started a small eatery here back in 1948 when

the Rotunda was built. Watch out for our sale items. Everything must go. We thank you for your kind patronage all these years and traveling down this road with us,” the store announced in its banner. Steven Cua, the store’s owner and a son of the founder, said in a television interview they had to close after more than seven decades of operations because of “stiff competition” and “unbeatable” inflation and other factors.

“That’s a clear indication of how the economy’s running,” Cua said in the interview

Welcome Supermart has another branch in Baclaran, Parañaque City.

PRAISE AWARDS. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office 1 recognizes the 2024 SETUP PRAISE awardees during Regional SETUP & CEST Summit at the DMMMSU-International Convention Center in Bacnotan, La Union, on Dec. 9, 2024. The PRAISE Awards for MSMEs celebrate outstanding micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that have excelled and flourished through the support of the SETUP program.

Convenience, health key focus for food companies

AS FOOD companies grapple with rising input costs, particularly for oils and fats, they are increasingly focusing on health and convenience to appeal to consumers, a leading data and analytics company said.

“Despite economic pressures from inflation, there is an increase in consumer focus on healthy foods,” said Bokkala Parthasaradhi Reddy, lead consumer analyst at GlobalData, in a statement.

“The World Health Organization (WHO) has linked processed foods, especially ultra-processed foods, along with tobacco and alcohol, as contributing to global health issues and the death of millions,” said Reddy.

Deepak Nautiyal, consumer and retail commercial director, APAC and ME, at GlobalData, said food in-

novation is gravitating to healthy and convenient products as companies try to align their products to consumers’ health goals and busy lifestyles.

He cited Mission’s Protein Wholemeal Wraps launched in Singapore and Malaysia as an example. “Boasting plant-based protein, these wraps offer a sustained energy boost and are fiber-rich,” Nautiyal said. “Catering to various dietary preferences, they are vegan, vegetarian, halal, and free from artificial flavors and added sugar.”

A GlobalData consumer survey showed that 55 percent of respondents were extremely or quite concerned about their personal financial situation, while 49 percent were extremely or quite concerned about their physical fitness and health.

China manufacturing up in December

BEIJING—China’s manufacturing activity expanded in December for the third month in a row, official data showed Tuesday, as leaders fight to reverse a slowdown in the world’s number two economy.

The country has struggled to climb out of a slump fuelled by a property market crisis, weak consumption and soaring government debt.

China’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) -- a key measure of industrial output -- was 50.1 in December, marking a third consecutive month of expansion,

Heavy snow disrupts Japan holiday air traffic

TOKYO—Heavy snow in Japan’s northern region cancelled dozens of flights Tuesday as millions of families were returning home to spend the New Year holiday with their loved ones.

Japan Airlines said it scrapped 42 flights, affecting 6,398 passengers, by early afternoon, all of them services to and from the northernmost island of Hokkaido.

Its main rival ANA also cancelled 14 flights, affecting 800 passengers, due to the rough weather in the north, and warned its customers of possible delays and more cancellations.

At the main airport of Hokkaido, passengers formed long lines to secure alternative flights.

Some prepared to see in 2025 in the departure lounge.

“It was great to see snow, but I didn’t think I would be trapped here,” one man trying to go home to Okinawa in the south told broadcaster HTB.

“I don’t know what to do. I might have to stay at the airport tonight.” Hokkaido and communities along northern coastlines facing the Sea of Japan were experiencing strong winds and heavy snow Tuesday, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.

More than 20 centimeters (7.9 inches) of snow has fallen in some areas of Hokkaido since Monday, most if it on Tuesday morning, the weather agency said, adding that snowfall was expected to continue on New Year’s Day.

Japan’s summer this year was the joint hottest on record— equaling the level seen in 2023 —as extreme heatwaves fueled by climate change engulfed many parts of the globe.

Autumn was the warmest since records began 126 years ago, according to the national weather agency.

The famous snowcap of Mount Fuji was also absent for the longest recorded period this year, not appearing until early November, compared with the average of early October. AFP

according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

Tuesday’s figure was lower than Bloomberg analysts’ prediction of 50.2, but still above 50, which indicates an expansion in manufacturing activity.

A reading below that shows a contraction.

The key indicator slid for six months in the middle of the year before returning to expansion territory in October.

Beijing has unveiled a string of aggressive measures in recent months aimed at bolstering growth, including cutting interest rates, cancelling restrictions on homebuying and easing the debt burden on local governments.

But economists have warned that more direct fiscal stimulus aimed at shoring up domestic consumption is needed to restore full health in China’s economy, which has struggled to fully

recover since the Covid-19 pandemic.

The non-manufacturing PMI, which measures activity in the service sector, came in at 52.2 in December, up from 50.0 in November.

“The official PMIs suggest that the economy gained momentum in December, driven by faster growth in the services and construction sectors,” Gabriel Ng of Capital Economics wrote in a note to clients Tuesday.

“Increased policy support towards the end of the year has clearly provided a near-term boost to growth,” Ng wrote.

Ng noted that export orders in particular rose to a four-month high in December, “probably helped by US importers ramping up orders in advance of potential Trump tariffs”.

Beijing is aiming for an official national growth target this year of around five percent, a goal officials have expressed confidence in achieving but which many economists believe it will narrowly miss.

The International Monetary Fund expects China’s economy to grow by 4.8 percent this year and 4.5 percent next year. AFP

Panama marks canal handover in shadow of Trump’s threat

PANAMA CITY—Panama on

Tuesday will mark the 25th anniversary of the United States’ handover of its interoceanic canal, a milestone overshadowed by Donald Trump’s threat to demand control be returned to Washington.

The anniversary comes two days after the death of former US president Jimmy Carter, at age 100, who signed the canal treaties that led to the vital waterway’s transfer on December 31, 1999.

Trump, who will return to the White House on January 20, sparked anger among Panamanians by recently saying that Washington would demand the canal “be returned to us” if Panama could not ensure its “secure, efficient and reliable operation.”

US farmers express concern over Trump’s deportation plans

FIREBAUGH, United States—

Lifelong farmer Joe Del Bosque knows that America can’t live without immigrants, but he worries that many of his countrymen think it can’t live with them either.

“When they’re needed, they welcome them. When they don’t need them, they want to kick them out,” the 75-year-old told AFP.

“Well, right now the country doesn’t know that they do need some of these workers.”

Farmers like Del Bosque, who grows cantaloupes and almonds in California, fear they could be at the sharp end of president-elect Donald Trump’s promise to deport millions of non-citizens.

Economists agree that a mass expulsion could leave him and others

like him without enough workers to harvest food -- causing shortages and sending prices skyrocketing.

“He’s talked about deportations. We don’t know yet what that means,” said Del Bosque.

“Does that mean everyone? We certainly hope that doesn’t mean he’s going to raid our farms, because without our people, our farms will come to a stop.”

And it isn’t just arable farmers who are worried.

Rick Naerebout, executive director of the Idaho Dairy Producers Association, warns the sudden disappearance of skilled laborers could be “devastating” to the dairy industry.

“It would only take a couple days of disruption and not being able to

feed or milk our cows to where you would damage our industry beyond repair,” he told AFP.

Around 2.4 million people work in farming in the United States, 44 percent of whom are undocumented, according to a survey by the Department of Labor.

University of Michigan economist David Ortega said -- despite what some politicians say publicly -- it is widely acknowledged in official circles that the entire system is heavily dependent on illegal workers.

“These are individuals that perform essential, very laborintensive tasks like planting and harvesting,” he said.

“Many of them fill critical roles that many US-born workers are either unable or unwilling to perform.” AFP

An undocumented worker from Honduras carrying a shovel, looks for damaged irrigation hoses in a cantaloupe field at Del Bosque Farms in Firebaugh, California, on Dec. 17, 2024. Around 2.4 million people work in farming in the United States, 44 percent of whom are undocumented, according to a survey by the Department of Labor. AFP

The US president-elect slammed what he called “ridiculous” fees for US ships passing through the canal and even alleged, without evidence, that Chinese soldiers were “lovingly, but illegally, operating” the channel.

“There’s nothing that unites Panamanians more than the defense of the canal,” political scientist Sabrina Bacal said.

“But having a tense relationship with the superpower, the main trading partner and main user of the canal, is a very disadvantageous situation for a country like Panama,” she told AFP. Francisco Cedeno, a 51-yearold graphic designer, described Trump’s threats as “completely nonsensical.” AFP

US Treasury targeted by cyberattack

WASHINGTON—The US Treasury Department said Monday that a China state-sponsored actor was behind a cyber breach resulting in access to some of its workstations, according to a letter to Congress seen by AFP. The incident happened earlier this month, when the actor compromised a third-party cybersecurity service provider and was able to remotely access the Treasury workstations and some unclassified documents, a Treasury spokesperson added. Treasury contacted the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency after it was alerted of the situation by its provider BeyondTrust, and has been working with law enforcement partners to ascertain the impact.

“The compromised BeyondTrust service has been taken offline and there is no evidence indicating the threat actor has continued access to Treasury systems or information,” the department’s spokesperson said. In its letter to the leadership of the Senate Banking Committee, the Treasury said: “Based on available indicators, the incident has been attributed to a China state-sponsored Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actor.”

An APT refers to a cyberattack where an intruder establishes and maintains unauthorized access to a target, remaining undetected for a sustained period of time. AFP

LAST TRADING. Pedestrians walk past an electronic board showing the closing numbers on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, along a street in central Tokyo on Dec. 30, 2024. In Tokyo, the Nikkei 225—on its last day of trading until Jan.

6—fell almost one percent. Overall, the Nikkei gained almost 20 percent in 2024, finally surpassing the high seen before Japan’s asset bubble burst in the 1990s. AFP

RISING TEMPERATURE. A woman harvests aromatic and medicinal plants in the mountains of Tbainia village near the city of Ain Drahem, in the north west of Tunisia on Nov. 6, 2024. On a hillside in Tunisia’s northwestern highlands, women scour a sun-battered field for the wild herbs they rely on for their livelihoods, but droughts and rising temperatures are making it ever harder to find the precious plants. AFP

SPOTLIGHT

Ilocos Norte named fastest growing economy in Region 1

LAOAG CITY—The year 2024 was a good year for Ilocos Norte, with an 8.6 percent economic expansion – the fastest among four provinces in Region I.

This despite the devastating impact of El Niño that was followed by a series of typhoons, and the continuing threat of African swine fever which affected thousands of hog farmers in the province.

Amid all these, the local economy remained strong with services, accommodation, transportation, and storage among the major industries that posted strong output this year, ranging from 15. 6 percent to 29.7 percent, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

By fostering a business-friendly environment through streamlined business transactions, the province continues to attract renewable power and business process outsourcing (BPO) companies to expand in this northern gateway of Luzon, according to Ilocos Norte Trade and Investment Promotions Office head Rona Leigh Cheng Bueno.

The rise of BPO companies in the province has also created thousands of jobs among residents.

This year, the province sustained a 98.7 percent employment rate, placing the Provincial Employment Service Office (PESO) as the best performer in Region 1 due to its numerous programs aimed to provide job opportunities to locals.

Provincial data shows over 350,000 individuals were employed this year,

with the latest report from PESO showing employment opportunities in Ilocos Norte increased to around 50 percent from a mere three percent in 2010.

Lizette Atuan said the increase is attributed to various job fairs, technical-vocational training, livelihood and self-employment assistance and cashfor-work programs being offered both by government and private institutions.

Currently, Ilocos Norte is also home to over 100 wind turbines installed across the province, with over 360 megawatts of total generating capacity. The electricity from these wind turbines provides power to thousands of homes in the country. With the establishment of the Ilocos Norte Incubation Center, the entrepreneurial spirit of the Ilocanos has also increased with a total of 22,490 registered micro, small and medium en-

terprises (MSMEs) in 2024 from last year’s 18,845 based on available data from the provincial government.

“Our incubation center serves as a one-stop shop for our MSMEs. Aside from providing a physical facility for them, we also give them customized services based on their requests,” said Elma Gabriel, head of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Office (MSMEO).

THE Wadhwani Foundation and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) of the Philippines have formalized a significant partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that underscores their joint commitment to driving entrepreneurship and digital transformation across the country.

The MOU signing set the stage for the EmpowerEd 2024 Summit held at the Lyceum of the Philippines University Manila. With the theme “Educate, Engage, Elevate the Next Gen of Entrepreneurs,” the summit brought together educators, policy-makers, entrepreneurs, and innovators to spotlight new initiatives and celebrate advances in entrepreneurship education.

A highlight of the event was the launch of Wadhwani Ignite, a program designed to equip young entrepreneurs with cutting-edge AI tools and support.

Meetul Patel, President of Wadhwani Entrepreneurship and Government Digital Transformation, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “Our collaboration with DOST aligns with our mission to drive economic growth through entrepreneurship and digital innovation. This partnership lays the groundwork for Filipino entrepreneurs to play a key role in the nation’s future growth.”

By Rex Espiritu

Reserve forces welcome motocross personality

RHOWELL “Bornok” Mangosong, also known as “The King of the Philippine Motocross Industry,” joined the Philippine Army Reserve.

The 4th Field Artillery Battalion (4FAB) recently hosted a meet and greet activity for Mangosong in Cagayan de Oro City.

As a bona fide member of the National Motorcycle Sports and Safety Association (NMSSA) of the Philippines, he brought a unique perspective and enthusiasm to the event, the 4FAB said.

“Mr. Mangosong is very optimistic about joining the reserve force in such a way that he could extend his service to the public and encourage the

youth to be more active in sports.”

According to the military unit, individuals from all walks of life are welcome to join the 1st (Mis Or) Ready Reserve Field Artillery Battery as part of the reserve component of 4FAB.

Some members of this newly organized reserve battery hail from different provinces in the CARAGA region.

“The unit is deeply appreciative of Mr. Mangosong’s presence and looks forward to potential future collaborations and events. His involvement is a testament to the battalion’s commitment to building relationships and fostering camaraderie with individuals from diverse backgrounds and industries.”

The MOU outlines several strategic areas for joint action, including:

• Entrepreneurship Capability Building: Workshops, mentorship, and capacity-building programs to empower aspiring and current entrepreneurs.

• Digital Transformation for Smart Cities: Initiatives that bolster DOST’s Smart and Sustainable Cities program, fostering digital solutions and innovation hubs to benefit urban communities.

• Enhancement

In July this year, the MSMEO in Ilocos Norte received a presidential award as an outstanding development partner for institutionalizing its Producer-to-Consumer (P2C) program in Quezon City and San Juan City in Metro Manila, generating more than PHP1 million gross sales for participating MSMEs every time they go to the metro to sell their products for two days for at least twice a month.

Gabriel said the MSMEO continues to innovate on its programs and services based on the needs of its clients.

“Our programs and projects are flexible. We continue to adopt to make it relevant,” she added.

The online platform of the P2C program has grown too, as MSMEs now have their e-commerce app where customers can order anytime and anywhere.

In addition, the province has sustained its lead as the top producer of high-value crops in the country by prioritizing the modernization of farm practices through the implementation of mechanization programs to support Ilokano farmers’ livelihoods by enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and expanding irrigation systems to ensure year-round farming.

The tourism sector has also emerged as a driver for economic growth, with Ilocos Norte utilizing its rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and local festivals to attract both domestic and international visitors.

The province has also prioritized infrastructure development to support its rapidly growing economy, with upgrades to the Laoag International Airport currently underway, to enhance connectivity and accommodate more

Pope Francis appoints new Tarlac bishop

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP. (From left) Renato U. Solidum Jr., DOST Secretary; Meetul Patel, President of Wadhwani Entrepreneurship and Government Digital Transformation; and Cris Delgado Jr., Regional Director of WEN SEA Wadhwani Foundation during the MOU signing.

POPE Francis appointed Bishop Roberto Mallari to lead the 61-year-old Diocese of Tarlac. Mallari replaced the late Bishop Enrique Macaraeg who passed away in October 2023. He has been serving as San Jose, Nueva Ecija bishop since July 2012. As Tarlac bishop, Mallari will oversee a diocese with around 60 parishes and a population of more than 1.2 million Catholics.

Born in Masantol, Pampanga, he completed his major seminary formation at San Carlos Seminary in Makati City and holds a master’s degree in spirituality from the Priests School for Asia in Tagaytay City. He also studied at the School for Priests in Florence, Italy.

Mallari was ordained priest for the Archdiocese of San Fernando on Nov. 27, 1982. He served as spiritual director at the Mother of Good Counsel Seminary in Pampanga from 1983 to 1987 and from 1989 to 1994.

Before becoming a bishop, he was executive secretary of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines – Episcopal Commission on Family and Life (CBCP-ECFL) from 2000 to 2006. On Jan. 14, 2006, Pope Benedict XVI appointed Mallari as auxiliary bishop of San Fernando, and he was ordained to the episcopate on March 27, 2006. He was named bishop of San Jose in May 2012. Mallari has also served as vice chairman of the ECFL and chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education. He also chaired the Office of Social Communications of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC).

Windmill Farm in Ilocos Norte. Manny Palmero

Rhowell Mangosong (center), a well-known motocross personality, joins the reserve force of the Philippine Army.

Incoming Tarlac Bishop Roberto Mallari

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

GMA Network solidifies digital dominance in 2024

GMA Network has strengthened its digital leadership in 2024, with a significant surge in online video viewership and impressive website traffic rankings, according to data from Tubular Labs and Similar Web.

From January to November 2024, Tubular Labs data shows that GMA Network recorded over 40 billion video views across all creator properties on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok by Nov. 30, surpassing ABS-CBN’s 34.3 billion views during the same period.

In November alone, GMA garnered almost 4.5 billion video views across platforms, with over 1.6 billion views on Facebook, more than 2 billion on TikTok, and 774 million on YouTube. In comparison, the network had 4.3 billion video views in October.

This growth highlights GMA Network’s commitment to producing engaging online content that resonates with

its audience. The network also retained its 19th position on the Tubular Leaderboard Worldwide Rankings in the Entertainment and Media category and remains the highestranking Southeast Asian media company.

Additionally, data from Similar Web reveals that GMANetwork.com led in website traffic from January to November 2024, with over 249 million page views. In November, it ranked as the No. 1 Local News and Media Publisher in the Similar Web Top Websites’ country ranking, surpassing other major publishers in unique visitors and pageviews. GMA also improved its position in the national ranking, moving up from 93rd to 87th place in the Philippines.

Social media emerged as the top source of traffic for GMA News Online and GMA Entertainment from June 1 to Dec. 15.

Keeping it reel

Why showbiz experts should lead MMFF

THE question of who should lead the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has been a topic of debate. Given the festival’s pivotal role in celebrating Filipino cinema, why is it organized by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and not an industry-driven body dedicated to local filmmaking and the welfare of those working within it?

In a gathering with the showbiz press, Senator Estrada revealed that his father, former President Joseph “Erap” Ejercito Estrada, would attend the event to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition as the “Father of MMFF.”

During the senator’s belated Christmas party for entertainment media, he emphasized his father’s profound impact on the festival’s inception. He expressed his pride in his father’s legacy, noting that the MMFF’s continued celebration of Filipino films

Newport World Resorts to honor

Vehnee

Saturno with tribute concert

NEWPORT World Resorts kicks off another year of live entertainment with a tribute concert celebrating the music of one of the country’s most renowned songwriters, Vehnee Saturno

The concert, titled The Music of Vehnee Saturno, will take place on Jan. 31 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, honoring the prolific songwriter’s over 40 years in the music industry. The event will feature performances by some of OPM’s brightest stars, including Ice Seguerra, Joey Generoso, Jessa Zaragoza, Julie Anne San Jose, and Kyla . Also gracing the stage are iconic artists Dingdong

Avanzado, Noel Cabangon, Rita Daniela, Daryl Ong, Kris Lawrence, and Martin Nievera Saturno, often referred to as a “hitmaker,” has composed some of OPM’s most enduring classics. His notable works include “Wala Na Bang Pag-ibig?” and “Dahil Tanging Ikaw” by Jaya, “Till My Heartaches End” by Ella Mae Saison and “Be My Lady” by Martin Nievera Other memorable hits include “Sana Kahit Minsan” by Ariel Rivera and “How Could You Say You Love Me?” by Sarah Geronimo With a catalog of over 800 songs, Saturno has earned numerous gold, platinum, and

still lives up to his father’s vision.

“Actually, it’s all his... not just because he’s my father, but it’s really all his,” Senator Jinggoy said. “Metro Manila Film Festival and Mowelfund (Movie Workers Welfare Foundation), which used to be the sole beneficiary of the festival and the one that organized the festival until leadership changed, then it was given to the Metropolitan Manila Commission, the predecessor of MMDA.” His sentiments emphasize the importance of leadership from those

multi-platinum record awards. He was recently recognized as one of the top composers of 2023 by the Filipino Society of Composers. Now in his fourth decade in the music industry, Saturno continues to create music while nurturing the next generation of Filipino talent. Tickets for The Music of Vehnee Saturno are available at all TicketWorld and Helixpay outlets, with prices ranging from P1,800 to P8,800. For inquiries, contact Newport World Resorts’ customer care hotline at (02) 7908 8888 or email info@ fhtcentertainment.com. For more information, visit www. newportworldresorts.com

in 1974,

the

of

and

Imelda Marcos. He recounted how his father lobbied for a festival that would focus exclusively on Filipino films during the Christmas season, a period when foreign movies dominated local theaters. This bold move led to the creation of a festival that continues to showcase Filipino talent every year.

“A lot of people opposed the idea, especially those who bring big Hollywood movies to the country,” he recounted.

Looking back at the festival’s history, Senator Estrada expressed that if it were up to him, MMFF would be managed by individuals with a true understanding of cinema and production.

“I would like the Metro Manila Film Festival to be managed by those who truly understand movies and film production,” he said. “But of course, it has to have the President’s approval.”

While he praised MMDA Chairman Romando Artes for his leadership, Senator Estrada’s preference for industry professionals to oversee MMFF underscores the need for expertise in crafting a festival that truly serves the Filipino film industry.

On a lighter note, Senator Estrada admitted he missed it when asked about the possibility of returning to acting. However, he noted his need to prioritize his health, saying he would need to lose weight before considering a comeback.

As for politics, Senator Estrada hinted at his continued involvement. Although he doesn’t need to run in the upcoming elections, he actively supports the BFF party-list, with his wife, Prescy Ejercito, as its first nominee.

The answer may lie in the festival’s roots, which were discussed by Senator Jinggoy Estrada ahead of the 50th MMFF Gabi ng Parangal.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada

Former President Joseph ‘Erap’ Ejercito Estrada (third from left) receives the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his contributions on the establishment of the MMFF

Award-winning songwriter Vehnee Saturno is known for composing hits like ‘Be My Lady’ and ‘Ikaw Na Nga’

GMA Network has recorded over 40 billion video views across all its social media platforms

SHOWBIZ

The miraculous reimagining of a timeless classic

FRONTROW

By Abigail Adriatico

NATIONA

l Artist

Ishmael Bernal was one of the biggest names in the history of the local fi lm industry, as his works showcased his artistry and innate talent for telling stories that mirrored societal issues of his time. One of his works that garnered immense recognition is his 1982 fi lm Himala , which stars renowned actress Nora Aunor.

When the film Isang Himala: The Musical was reportedly in the works, helmed by MMFF 2023 Best Director Pepe Diokno, avid fans of Bernal and film critics set their expectations high, as the revered work from decades ago deserved to be treated well.

To the delight of many, the film, based on the 2018 theatrical adaptation of Bernal’s work, garnered numerous accolades during the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi ng Parangal, such as 4th Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress, Best Original Theme Song, Best Musical Score, and Special Jury Prize.

Upon viewing the film, it follows the same plot as the original—a young woman named Elsa (Aicelle Santos) from the allegedly cursed town of Cupang claims to have seen an apparition of the Virgin Mary, which has granted her the power to heal, subsequently drawing many people to the town, be it for their faith or their own nefarious purposes.

As the film is adapted from a musical, the prominent use of music in place of dialogue might be jarring at times, but the undeniable talents of the cast in both acting and singing make each scene more captivating to watch.

The screenwriting of Diokno, alongside National Artist Ricky Lee, who adapted the original screenplay into a musical with composer Vincent de Jesus, shone throughout the film as the script gave ample time for both spoken lines and songs.

Santos delivers her lines in an angelic manner, cementing how the people from Cupang and the pilgrims from distant places revered her as a living saint. Kakki Teodoro who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role as Nimia, served as the perfect mirror to Santos’ gentle but enabling portrayal of Elsa, embodying the cattiness yet kindhearted nature of her character.

Apart from the main cast, the ensemble was impeccable in every scene, adding to the ambiance of the town with their depictions of the blind and desperate faith of its inhabitants, which were widely apparent and convincing.

While the film managed to display a somewhat realistic view of man’s desperate attempt to rid himself of responsibility through blind faith, as well as the greed that comes with taking advantage of those who do not know any better, its depiction of the town of Cupang sometimes felt too stagelike. Some parts of the film made the audience detach from their immersion, as the feeling of watching the story unfold on a theatrical stage lingered.

Overall, Isang Himala has not only accomplished the feat of telling a relevant story that warrants accolades and awards, but it has also successfully bridged Ishmael Bernal’s past genius to a newer generation who may benefit from the viewpoints, criticisms, and discussions his work aims to showcase and cultivate.

Argentina charges five in death of singer Liam Payne

FIVE people have been indicted in Argentina over the death of British singer Liam Payne who fell from a Buenos Aires hotel balcony in October after consuming alcohol and drugs, prosecutors said Monday.

Three of the five were charged with manslaughter and the other two with supplying the former One Direction pop star with illegal drugs, prosecutors said, identifying the suspects only by their initials.

The latter two have been taken into custody but the others have been allowed to remain free, the prosecutors said.

Payne died on Oct. 16 after falling from the balcony of his third-floor room at the Casa Sur Hotel in the Argentine capital

His death at age 31 prompted a global outpouring of grief from family, former bandmates, fans, and others, with thousands gathering in cities around the world to offer their condolences.

The unnamed people charged with manslaughter are a representative of the singer who was traveling with him, a woman managing the hotel where Payne died, and the head of its reception desk, they added.

The ones charged with supplying Payne with drugs are a hotel employee and a waiter that Payne met elsewhere in the city, the prosecutors said.

Payne consumed cocaine, alcohol, and a prescription antidepressant before falling to his death, Argentine prosecutors said last month.

He had spoken publicly about struggling with substance abuse and coping with fame from an early age. AFP

IN 2024, the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) reached a new milestone by reviewing over 267,000 materials, an increase from 255,220 in 2023 and 230,280 in 2022. These included 264,424 television programs, 592 films, 549 movie trailers, and 1,525 publicity and optical media materials submitted by producers and networks for classification.

Of the films reviewed, 30 were classified as G (suitable for all audiences), 298 were rated PG (Parental Guidance), 251 were R-rated, and 13 were given an X rating, indicating they were not suitable for public viewing.

Despite limited manpower and resources, this achievement underscores the Board’s commitment to accurately classifying media content in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.

MTRCB chairperson and CEO Lala SottoAntonio emphasized that all materials are rated based on age-appropriateness, balancing freedom of expression with viewer protection.

“The increase in the volume of materials reviewed this year reflects our commitment to meet the demands of a growing media landscape while ensuring content aligns with

the values and sensitivities of Filipino audiences, especially for children and youth,” she said. Sotto-Antonio also expressed gratitude to the 31 Board Members for their tireless efforts in reviewing and classifying materials. “I am deeply grateful to our dedicated Board Members who work tirelessly—rain or shine, even on weekends and holidays—to ensure all materials are reviewed and classified promptly,” she added. The Board Members bring diverse expertise, including lawyers, retired educators, film and television producers, directors, actors, editors, advertising experts, journalists, public servants, entrepreneurs, and a mental and behavioral expert.

The year also marked other significant milestones, such as various partnerships, international participation, and the launch of the “Responsableng Panonood Tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas” campaign. As 2024 concludes, Sotto-Antonio reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to being a proactive regulatory body and an ally of the Philippine creative industry. “As we look forward to 2025, we remain dedicated to promoting responsible viewing, strengthening collaboration with our stakeholders, and supporting the continued growth and success of the Philippine creative industry,” she ends.

Liam Payne became popularly known as one of the members of One Direction alongside Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan

Singeractress Aicelle Santos plays ‘Himala’s iconic character, Elsa

Kakki Teodoro takes home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role as Nimia

‘Isang Himala: The Musical’ is based on the 2018 theatrical adaptation of Ishmael Bernal’s work, ‘Himala’

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2025

lifeandshow.manilastandard@gmail.com

NICKIE WANG, Editor

ANGELICA VILLANUEVA, Writer

WE can trace the history of the circus back to ancient history. The circus is part of the cultural fabric of American cartography, that is, sights and sounds, animals, and performers commonly not seen in towns.

The circus introduces the world to curious Americans who are unable to travel far from home. These traveling circuses bring not the actual world but the version of it imagined and marketed by the circus, reaching both small towns and cities.

The circus’ legacy lies in its method of spreading the word, using advertising techniques like parades and drumbeats to generate interest. Additionally, the use of posters, popularized by the circus, played a significant role in the development of contemporary graphic design.

The whimsical posters become vital in capturing attention and generating interest. The history of the circus posters came with advancements in technological leaps in printing, which took leaps and bounds from the late 19th to early 20th century. These posters share the aesthetic attributes and visual communication of the contemporary election campaign posters. After all, as the 2025 election campaign is upon us, the circus is literally in town with eager blowhards sprouting fanciful promises – much like a circus freak show, which is not much different from campaigning politicians.

The American circus has played a vital role in the emergence of the modern Philippine nation. The circus is related to the fairs, the expos, and most disturbingly, the human zoos used by white supremacist colonial powers. The United States had human zoos in the early 20th century that featured indigenous Filipinos in captivity.

Shipped from the northern Philippines, these indigenous people appeared in these human zoos as entertainment in the guise of education.

Among the popular shows is the ritual of dog eating. This earned the insult “dog eaters” hurled against Filipinos then – which even showed up in Trump’s insane rants against Haitians who eat cats and dogs. This is a racist marking brown people as uncivilized, unhygienic, and should have no place in America. These human zoos helped convince Americans that

Send in the clowns: The cultural significance of the circus

Located in Baraboo, Wisconsin, the Circus World features a collection of circus carriages in the United States

the US government must “civilize” and “Christianize” the Philippines.

In effect, the Filipinos in these human zoos are just like circus clowns who wear garish makeup and act in what is considered absurd.

The traveling circuses showcased the stark difference in culture and values from the dominant White Anglo-Saxon Protestant (WASP) cultural cartography of the United States. The distance from the WASP enabled racist assertion of what civilization is...and should be, according to White America.

Baraboo, Wisconsin, has Circus World, among the most prominent museums dedicated to the circus on the planet. This place has the most extensive collection of circus carriages in the United States. Some of Disneyland’s old circus carriages are conserved and stored here. These carriages offer both storage and mobile advertising. Some carriages transport animals in cages that astound the people as they parade to the assigned fairgrounds of the town. Carriages that are heavily ornate and cover the entire thing moved tents, costumes, and other circus materials.

Among the carriages in Circus World

The particular carriage seemed created in the early 20th century

from Europe, distant from whiteness, and distant from the American WASP.

However, the Philippines is glaringly absent in this carriage for “Asia.” Siam, Java, and Malaysia represent Southeast Asia, but no Filipino face here. This particular carriage appeared in the early 20th century, notably until 1930. The “Philippine Islands” were under Colonial American tutelage. The Filipinos during that time were considered “nationals” but not American “citizens.” Filipinos were not aliens like the Chinese and the Japanese, and they could enter the United States as cheap labor for the American agricultural machinery in Hawaii, Alaska, California, and even as far as New Mexico.

The absence of the Filipino in this “Asia” carriage is arguably because the Philippines was part of the American colonial machinery. If we were too “exotic,” too distant from the American WASP image, it would imply that the US has failed to assimilate us. Also, the “Asia” circus carriage features nonChristian people. The Philippines has been Christian even before the arrival of the Mayflower Pilgrims in Plymouth Rock. Our dominant Christian identity does not warrant the exotic, orientalist Asia of mystery, perfumed damask, incense smoke, and silk. Interestingly, even today, the Philippines’ position in “Asia” is seen as suspect, for we are considered not Asian enough; we are more culturally

are decorated with images of places, communities, nations, and ethnicities involved in the circus. Circus carriages are celebrating France with medieval flourishes reminiscent of the fleur-de-lis. An American carriage shows a scene of Christopher Columbus and his crew arriving at the beachfront of what eventually will be called the Bahamas.

One particular carriage features “Asia.” Faces of different Asian ethnicities with portraits of primary men in their imagined “national” image cover this carriage. From the Central Asian steppes to Imperial Japan, “Asia” is the Orientalist depiction that is distant

Some carriages in Circus World are decorated with images of various places, communities, and ethnicities connected to circus

attuned to the likes of Mexico. Perhaps it is comforting that though we started as a freak show in their human zoos, we eventually fell off from this “Asia” circus carriage because we are not exotic enough to be part of that circus. You may reach Chong Ardivilla at kartunistatonto@gmail.com or chonggo.bsky.social

CCP recognizes 13 artists for impact on contemporary art

THE Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) has announced the recipients of the 2024 Thirteen Artists Awards (TAA), recognizing thirteen visual artists for their contributions to contemporary Philippine art.

The awardees are Catalina Africa, Denver Garza, Russ Ligtas, Ella Mendoza, Henrielle Baltazar Pagkaliwangan, Issay Rodriguez, Luis Antonio Santos, Joshua Serafin, Jel Suarez, Tekla Tamoria, Derek Tumala, Vien Valencia, and Liv Vinluan Now in its 54th year, the triennial TAA highlights innovative Filipino artists who have reshaped and strengthened artmaking in the country, continuing the legacy of CCP Museum’s founding curator, Roberto Chabet Raymundo Albano, the subsequent director of the CCP Museum and Non-Theater Operations, transformed the CCP TAA into the awards program recognized by the Filipino arts community today. From 1970 to 1980, the TAA was held every two

years. It continued in 1988, 1990, 1992, and 1994. After a short hiatus, the TAA was revived in 2000 and transitioned into its current triennial format.

This year’s awardees were carefully selected out of 108 nominations through a meticulous and rigorous evaluation process, which began when the nominations opened in May 2024.

The CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division (CCP VAMD) received 82 submissions from various art groups, museum and gallery directors and curators, art critics, art educators, and former Thirteen Artists Awardees, from all over the Philippines.

The selection committee, consisting of Phyllis Zaballero ( Thirteen Artists 1978), Antipas Delotavo (Thirteen Artists 1990), Buen Calubayan (Thirteen Artists 2009), Wawi Navarroza (Thirteen Artists 2012), and CCP VAMD officerin-charge Rica Estrada Uson, reviewed the nominees’ portfolios.

The selection committee assessed nominees based on artistic innovation, integrity, and engagement with contemporary themes, ensuring they had a track record of sustained activity through individual and group exhibitions. The 13 awardees were chosen for their artistic excellence and potential to shape the

future of Philippine art, demonstrating CCP’s commitment to nurturing exceptional local talent.

The 13 awardees of the 2024 Thirteen Artists Awards include a diverse group of innovative artists.

Catalina Africa is a multidisciplinary artist who explores shapeshifting and earth channeling through various media, drawing inspiration from the natural landscape.

Denver Garza, a former mental

health worker, uses his art to examine identity, beliefs, and social dynamics, blending the psychosocial with physical media.

Cebu-born Russ Ligtas delves into the Filipino body as a mythological and historical artifact through alter egos.

Ceramic artist Ella Mendoza evolved from creating functional wares to producing conceptual sculptures and installations.

Henrielle Baltazar Pagkaliwangan

uses prints and drawings to explore Philippine history and material culture.

Issay Rodriguez focuses on humanism, ecology, and emotional expression through art and technology.

Luis Antonio Santos examines memory and identity through paintings, photography, and image manipulation.

Joshua Serafin, a multidisciplinary artist, explores transmigration, queer politics, and Filipino identity through performance and visual art.

Self-taught artist Jel Suarez reinterprets visual phenomena through collage, using natural found objects.

Tekla Tamoria draws inspiration from diverse sources, including costume design and fractal patterns, to create her textile works.

Derek Tumala blends science, nature, and emerging technologies to explore interconnectedness in his art.

Vien Valencia challenges traditional archiving methods through community-focused, time-based art projects.

Liv Vinluan investigates the history, death, and the passage of time through her artwork.

For more information about the CCP Thirteen Artists Awards, visit the Thirteen Artists website (thirteenartists. culturalcenter.gov.ph), the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph), and follow the official CCP and CCP VAMD social media accounts

One carriage features faces of different Asian ethnicities with portraits of primary men

The recipients of the 2024 Thirteen Artists Awards (TAA)