The Standard - 2015 December 24 - Thursday by Manila Standard

VOL. XXIX NO. 315 3 Sections 32 Pages P18 THURSday : dECEMBER 24, 2015 www.thestandard.com.ph editorial@thestandard.com.ph

Grace, Binay tied in new poll

Poe’s woes Go on: 5 dAys to APPeAl

By Rey E. Requejo, sara susanne D. Fabunan and Macon RamosAraneta

PRESIDENTIAL aspirant Senator Grace Poe has only five days to bring her case to the Supreme Court before the Commission on Elections excludes her from the official list of candidates, the chairman of the poll body said Wednesday.

In a press conference, Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista said Poe’s name was still on the list of candidates at the moment despite the poll body’s decision to disqualify her from running for president in 2016. “Right now, her name is still on the ballot,” Bautista said. However, Rule 37 of the Omnibus Election Code says decisions in preproclamation cases and petitions to deny due course to or cancel Certificates of Candidacy will become final and executory after the lapse of five days from their promulgation.

The lapse of the five-day period in this case would be Dec. 28—meaning Poe’s camp would have to obtain a temporary restraining order from the Supreme Court over the Christmas holidays and a weekend. Poe’s lawyer, George Garcia, questioned the timing of the Comelec en banc’s decision. “We really didn’t expect the Comelec to side with us, but what is really sad is that they released this decision two days before Christmas,” Garcia said in Filipino. “Now we have no choice but to use these holidays to prepare our petition.” A Supreme Court official said the justices

may act on a petition filed by Poe even if they are on recess. Court spokesman Theodore Te said the tribunal’s rules allow them to grant relief in urgent cases and issue temporary restraining orders without the need to first hold session. If case is raffled to full court, it is the Chief Justice who can issue the TRO; if it is to a division, it will be the chairman of the division, Te said. Under the rules, the Chief Justice may issue a TRO upon the recommendation of the justice in charge and subject to confirmation of the full court in their next session, which will be on Jan. 12, 2016. Next page

For Poe. Supporters of presidential candidate Grace Poe rally outside the Commission on Elections offices on Wednesday after the poll body disqualified Poe in next year’s election. Ey AcAsio

Reds break own truce, strike at AFP post

Trust in Aquino continues to go down By Adelle chua FILIPINOS trusted President Benigno Aquino III less in December 2015 than they did in May and September, even as his performance and approval ratings for the same period were higher than they were six months ago, according to The Standard Poll conducted

by this newspaper’s resident pollster, Junie Laylo. The December survey was conducted between Dec. 4 and 12, with 1,500 biometrically registered voter respondents from the National Capital Region, Northern/Central Luzon, Southern Luzon/Bicol, Visayas and Mindanao. The survey has a margin of error of plus or

minus 2 percent on the national level. Respondents across the country rated President Aquino’s performance at a net 43 percent, up from 28 percent in May and 40 percent in September. Aquino’s performance rating was highest in Mindanao, with net 66 percent in December from 44 percent Next page

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A2 Trust... From A1

in May and 57 percent in September. The next highest rating was given by residents of Northern and Central Luzon with net 45 percent in December from 24 percent and 32 percent in the two previous survey periods. The survey showed only a net 20 percent performance rating among Metro Manila residents. Similarly, respondents across the country gave a higher approval rating for President Aquino with net 41 percent in December from 24 percent in May and 35 percent in September. Respondents from Mindanao showed the highest approval at net 59 percent, up from 37 percent in May and 53 percent in September. They were followed by respondents from Northern and Central Luzon, with ratings of 23 percent in May and 28 percent in September. Metro Manilans gave the President the lowest approval rate at net 16 percent in December. Nationwide, the administration’s net satisfaction rating was at 41 percent in December, up from net 28 percent in May and net 37 percent in September. Metro Manila residents continued to be less satisfied than their counterparts elsewhere, giving the administration a satisfaction rating of net 14 percent—down from 21 percent and 15 percent in September. Across the country, residents from rural areas were more satisfied than their urban counterparts, with net 47 percent versus 28 percent, respectively, in December. Aquino’s trust ratings continued to decline, however. Across the country, the President’s trust rating was at net 25 percent in December, down from 36 percent in May and 43 percent in September. Even the Mindanao figure was lower at net 45 percent, down from 53 percent in May and 61 percent in September. In Metro Manila, the President eked out a trust rating of only 1 percent, a precipitous drop from 31 percent in May and 16 percent in September. Vice President Jejomar Binay’s trust ratings also took a beating, now down to only 10 percent from 20 percent in May and 18 percent in September. Among the respondents, 26 percent said their lives had improved under the Aquino administration while 11 percent said they were worse off. Most—accounting for 63 percent—said there was no change at all. The Laylo survey also showed that voters do not put much stock in endorsements from other politicians or show business personalities. Fifty-seven percent of respondents replied “none” when asked the question “Whose endorsement is important?” The “none” answer was most prevalent in the Southern Luzon and Bicol regions, followed by North Central Luzon with 67 percent and NCR at 63 percent. No national figures were mentioned by more than 3 percent of the respondents. An endorsement from President Aquino, the survey showed, carried less weight (2 percent) than an endorsement from young actor Coco Martin and the Aldub couple (3 percent), and about the same as one from entertainers Sarah Geronimo and Vice Ganda (2 percent). The question about endorsements was open ended with multiple responses allowed. Among members of the Iglesia ni Cristo included in the survey, 60 percent said they would vote for whomever the religious group endorses, with 13 percent not voting for said candidates and 28 percent saying the endorsement would have no effect on their decision. Among Catholics, 34 percent would vote for candidates endorsed by the Catholic Church, with 61 percent saying it would have no effect on their decision. Seventeen percent would vote for whomever the Liberal Party endorses, and 10 percent would vote for those endorsed by the United Nationalist Alliance.

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Misinformation hurts Grace, pollster claims Speaking to the ANC news channel, Pulse Asia research director Ana Maria Tabunda said this could be why Poe dropped to second place in the Dec. 4 to 11 Pulse Asia survey of presidential preferences to Binay’s 33 percent. The December survey showed Poe statistically tied with Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, who had 23 percent. Liberal Party standard bearer Manuel Roxas II was at third place with 17 percent, down from 20 percent in the September survey, while Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago had 4 percent. Tabunda said the survey was conducted after the Commission on Elections Second Division came out with a ruling to cancel Poe’s Certificate of Candidacy over her alleged failure to meet the residency requirement for presidential candidates. The ANC report said the Comelec’s First Division also ruled on another petition to cancel Poe’s CoC on the basis of her natural-born status; the decision was released during the survey period. The Poe camp has said it will appeal the decision before the Supreme Court. Tabunda said the Comelec rulings af-

fected voter preference for Poe. “It is not just the thought that she might be disqualified. Some think she is already disqualified,” she told ANC. “There is some misinformation there. Some of them are confused. One example given by a field interviewer—one respondent was saying, ‘Poe is not running,’ so she was picking somebody else,” Tabunda said. Tabunda said the Poe camp must be more aggressive in explaining to voters the status of the disqualification cases before the Comelec. Tabunda said Poe is still doing well despite the misinformation. “It is a question of—can she still regain some of that support [if] she is allowed to run…? Can she still regain those votes that she has lost temporarily right now?” she asked. Poe spokesman Mayor Rex Gatchalian said the entire campaign team accepts and respects the survey results. “It serves as an inspiration and roadmap for us to calibrate our next movies. We will keep on explaining to the electorate that Senator Poe has not been disqualified...Whatever happens it will go to

the Supreme Court,” Gatchalian said. Tabunda also pointed out problems affecting candidates such as Poe and Duterte have benefited Binay, whose 14 percentage point gain she described as big. “If you remember, Binay was the frontrunner but as other candidates joined the race, he lost some of the support. But now there are questions about disqualification, so because there is doubt, some of those votes are going back to Binay,” Tabunda said in Filipino in an interview on radio dzMM. Tabunda said Poe ate away at Binay’s numbers after her name first cropped up in the presidential race. She said Duterte’s entry in the presidential surveys also affected Poe and Binay’s numbers in Mindanao. Tabunda also noted that Duterte might have received more support from voters since September, but the flak over cursing the Pope hurt him. A Pulse Asia survey conducted last month showed that Duterte was the most preferred presidential candidate for Metro Manila voters until the cursing incident. Tabunda said Binay also benefited from the relative silence on the corruption allegations against him, as there were more news reports on the issues against the other candidates. In all this time, she said, Binay never stopped working to woo voters before Election Day. Tabunda said administration bet Roxas had to work on his messaging.

Poe’s...

they would not allow the plotters to get away with what they did. The leak of the Comelec en banc decision Tuesday night, he added, was aimed to sowing confusion and to hurt the Poe campaign. “Why release the decisions in haste when the holiday breaks are upon us? “ Gatchalian said, noting that this could have been aimed at limiting Poe’s legal response. “Despite these timing obstacles thrown our way, we will bring the battle to the Supreme Court in a timely manner taking into account the prescribed deadlines,” he said. He said it was also “very disturbing” that some people within the Comelec leaked the decision even before the poll body could promulgate the decision. “This is highly irregular and we believe that the Comelec should look into this. Protocols and procedures are being breached. That being said, the sinister minds behind this leak have one thing in mind—to sow confusion,” Gatchalian said. Poe said she was not surprised with the decision of the Comelec en banc but said she was undaunted. “I am a Filipino and qualified to offer myself as president of our country. The Comelec cannot change that much less deprive our people of their right to choose our next leader,” she said. The Comelec en banc on Tuesday disqualified Poe from running for president in 2016 on the grounds that she is not a natural-born citizen and that she did not meet the 10-year residency requirement for the post.

Ruling on a motion for reconsideration filed by Poe, the commissioners voted Tuesday night to uphold the decisions of the First Division 5-2, and Second Division 5-1 to disqualify the senator. On Wednesday, Bautista said the Comelec had begun uploading the 216 names of candidates onto its Election Management System so that they would be able to print the official ballots by Jan. 26. Uploaded onto the EMS were the names of 23 presidential candidates, six vice presidential candidates, 68 candidates for senator and 119 candidates for party-list groups. Poe welcomed the Comelec decision to keep her name on the list, but said a reversal of its decision to disqualify her would allow the 2016 polls to be “representative of the people’s will.” In a statement, Poe reiterated that she is a Filipino who lived in the country for more than 10 years. She considered the Comelec inclusion of her name in the ballot a “first victory” for the public. “We are continuously standing as a candidate. I believe the Supreme Court will side with the truth and the right of the public to choose their leader. Like what I have always been saying, this is not only about me, but foremost, this is about giving importance to the voice of the Filipino.” Poe, an independent presidential candidate, reiterated that she will overcome the legal hurdles concocted by allies of her political opponents so that Filipinos will not be robbed of a choice for president.

By Sandy Araneta

MISINFORMATION is hurting the campaign of presidential aspirant Senator Grace Poe, as some voters thought the senator has already disqualified from the 2016 presidential race, a Pulse Asia official said Tuesday

From A1

Garcia said they would file their petition on Monday, Dec. 28, since the Supreme Court is closed today and tomorrow for national holidays. “We have until Tuesday [Dec. 29] to get a TRO from Supreme Court for Poe to stay on the ballot,” he said in an interview. The disqualification cases against Poe were filed by lawyer Estrella Elamparo, former senator Franciso Tatad, De La Salle University professor Antonio Contreras and former University of the East law dean Amado Valdez. Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno recently vowed to act swiftly on urgent cases related to the 2016 elections. “In fact, we understand and it is clear to us that this Christmas season will not be a usual season for us. There might be things that we need to set aside because of the urgency of matters that need to be resolved,” she said. “So we are keenly aware of all of those and you can see that most of the justices will be making themselves available for any eventuality… We need to work hard because this is the only process by which we can ensure that the right, just outcome will result,” Sereno said. The Poe camp on Wednesday vowed to go after the “plotters” behind the disqualification cases and described the timing of the Comelec deicision as “suspicious.” In a text message, Poe’s spokesperson, Valenzuela Rep. Rex Gatchalian said

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‘Binay’s days as top pick are numbered’

Festival entries. Actors and actresses in colorful floats join a parade of the film entries to the 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival that started in Pasay City on Wednesday. Ey AcAsio

Poe, Binay tied in SWS’ latest pre-election poll THE results of the latest pre-election survey of Business World-Social Weather Stations showed Vice President Jejomar Binay and Senator Grace Poe leading the field in next year’s presidential elections. Binay also led in another poll conducted by Pulse Asia Research Inc. The results of the Dec. 12 to 14 BW-SWS survey among 1,200 respondents showed 26 percent picking Binay and Poe as the next president if the elections were held today. The ruling Liberal Party welcomed the latest results of the BWSWS survey in which its standard bearer Manuel Roxas II placed second. Roxas’ spokesman Barry Gutierrez said things could still change

before next year’s elections. “What is clear here is that a substantial number of Filipinos are still deciding on which candidate to support, and a lot can still change before May 2016,” Gutierrez said. The BW-SWS survey in September saw Poe and Binay in a statistical tie, with Poe’s 26 percent just two points over Binay’s, while Roxas had 20 percent. In December, Roxas placed second with 22 percent followed by Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte with 20 percent.

The Pulse Asia survey on Dec. 4 to 11 showed that 33 percent of the 1,800 respondents picked Binay for the highest office in the land, up from 19 percent in September. Duterte placed second at 23 percent followed by Poe with 21 percent and Roxas with 17 percent. “The recent survey results encourage the vice-president to double his effort of directly telling our people of his plans to uplift their lives and make the government relevant in solving poverty, unemployment and other lingering social ills,” Binay’s spokesman Rico Paolo Quicho said on Tuesday. In a separate statement, Roxas said the most important survey would be the actual elections in May. In the vice presidential race, Sena-

tor Francis Escudero was top choice with 30 percent (flat from November) followed by LP bet Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo and Senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. who were tied with 19 percent. Senator Alan Peter Cayetano was hot on their heels with 17 percent. Escudero also emerged as top choice for the country’s secondhighest post in the Pulse Asia survey at 29 percent. Escudero was followed by Marcos with 23 percent, Cayetano with 18 percent and Robredo with 14 percent. In the senatorial race, Senators Vicente Sotto III and Ralph Recto and former food security presidential assistant Francis Pangilinan led the other aspirants. sandy Araneta and John Paolo Bencito

VICE President Jejomar Binay’s days as survey front runner are numbered, a spokesman for Liberal Party standard bearer Manuel Roxas II said Wednesday. “I don’t think he [Binay] is in a secure position,” Rep. Barry Gutierrez said. “Once people are reminded of his extensive links to corruption and he continues to avoid the issue, his support will once again drop.” Gutierrez made his statement even as Binay on Wednesday vowed to create more jobs should he become the next president to reduce the number of Filipinos seeking work abroad. Binay, former presidential adviser on migrant Filipino workers, told members of the Federation of Free Workers in Cagayan de Oro City that he would do his best to improve the lives of Filipinos. Binay earlier said he would focus on strengthening the five biggest creators of employment: agriculture, mining, business process outsourcing, manufacturing and exports. Gutierrez said Binay’s emergence as the top pick in the presidential race was a result of the change in the public’s interest from the corruption charges Binay was facing to the issues affecting Duterte, Poe and Roxas. “VP Binay was simply forgotten in the national conversation as it shifted to Poe, Duterte and Mar,” Gutierrez said. “And in his case, that was a good thing because the numerous unanswered corruption charges against him also faded into the background, allowing him to recover some lost ground,” he said. Binay surged 33 percent to regain the top spot in the latest Pulse Asia presidential survey. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte ranked second with 23 percent followed by Senator Grace Poe with 21 percent. Roxas ranked fourth with 17 percent while Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago placed last with 4 percent. John Paolo Bencito and Vito Barcelo

Duterte says he will retire if disqualified DAVAO City Mayor and presidential aspirant Rodrigo Duterte said Wednesday it would be time to retire if the Commission on Elections disqualified him to run in next year’s elections. He made the statement after a disqualification case was filed against him by Rizalito David, the same person who filed a disqualification case against leading presidential bet Senator Grace Poe. David opposes Duterte’s substitution for Partidong Demokratikong Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan’s former standard-bearer and Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption member Martin Diño. In a report published by SunStar Davao, Duterte said he was happy that David, who also filed a Certificate of Candidacy for president but was later declared as a nuisance candidate by the Comelec,

took time to explain the issues on his candidacy. “I am happy that he has found time to clear everything. If I’m disqualified it would be okay, no problem,” Duterte said. He said he would not die if he did not become president. His disqualification would mean retirement and that would be fine because he had already spent 40 years in the government as a mayor, prosecutor and congressman. “Go ahead and disqualify me,” Duterte said. In his petition filed with the Comelec, David said Duterte and Diño “desecrated the system with impunity,” given the sequence of events leading to Duterte’s filing of his Certificate of Candidacy. David said Duterte’s CoC was “not seasonably filed,” and that Duterte missed the filing period in October when he instead filed for

reelection in Davao City. “Not only is Duterte’s CcC for president not validly and seasonably filed but the substitution itself is legally infirm,” David said. “As there was no valid substitution, not to mention that his CoC was not seasonably filed, his candidacy cannot, therefore, take off. The Commission cannot turn a blind eye to these violations.” Last week, Duterte said he would support the candidacy of Vice President Jejomar Binay instead of administration bet Manuel Roxas II if he and Poe were disqualified to run by the Comelec in the May 9, 2016 elections. “If I’m disqualified it’s okay, I don’t care,” Duterte said. “But this much I can say: I do not have any respect for you [Roxas]. If Grace is disqualified and I am disqualified, I will campaign for Binay.” Joel E. Zurbano

Waiting for their gifts. About 1,800 elderly and mostly deaf and mute people wait to receive their gifts from a non-government organization at the Cultural Center of the Philippines on Wednesday. DAnny PAtA

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Arroyo begins six-day furlough By Rio N. Araja FORMER president and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo left the Veteran’s Memorial Medical Center where she has been detained since 2012 on Wednesday morning for a six-day furlough granted by the Supreme Court. Arroyo was fetched from the hospital by her husband, former First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo, and a few close friends at 8 a.m. and arrived at the Arroyo family residence in La Vista subdivision in Quezon City around 8:20 a.m. “Mrs. Arroyo was very happy, jolly and in a very light disposition,” said her former lawyer Lorenzo Gadon, who was among those who fetched the former president from the hospital. “We talked about the traffic [in Metro Manila]and the presidential poll surveys while on our way to La Vista, [but] she told us not to give any political statement.” Some of Arroyo’s friends, former Cabinet officials and son Mikey were waiting for the former president to arrive at her La Vista residence and they all had breakfast together shortly after they arrived, Gadon said. On her first day at home, Arroyo had scramble egg, pandesal with butter, marinated boneless milkfish, Vienna sausage, pancake and rice for a breakfast, Gadon said. Arroyo was “overwhelmed” when son Datu and his wife, and her two grandchildren arrived and embraced her tight, he said.

Home for Christmas. Passengers packed provincial bus terminals in Cubao, Quezon City as they rushed to the provinces for the holiday season.

LINO SANTOS

Reds break own truce, attack military outpost By Francisco Tuyay

THE New People’s Army violated the Christmas truce it unilaterally declared after communist rebels in Surigao del Sur attacked an Army outpost in San Miguel town Wednesday morning. Colonel Isidro Purisima, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade based at Tandag City in Surigao del Sur, said soldiers of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion stationed at the outskirts of Barangay Bitaugan were attacked around 9:30 a.m. “We are not surprised by this event,” Purisima said. “Although the CPP Central Committee made the declaration of ceasefire ef-

fective Dec. 23, 2015 until Jan. 3, 2016, their armed wing-the NPA continued their banditry.” “Either they lack sincerity [in] their pronouncement or they have no firm control over their comrades at the lower level,” Purisima added. Troops managed to repel the attack and forced the NPA to disengage. Troops immediately pursued the NPA and as of press time,

another firefight ensued near the boundary of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur. Meanwhile, Malacañang condemned the incident as a “dastardly act,” saying the NPA has no regard for people’s welfare, particularly the attacks on military relief convoys. “The government is fully determined to carry out and complete needed relief and rehabilitation work in calamity-affected areas despite recent attacks in Samar that momentarily disrupted our main efforts in rendering humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, as we increased the deployment of personnel assigned to force protection and road security,” said Communications

Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. “The dastardly act on the part of the local NPAs clearly indicates their disregard for the people’s welfare,” Coloma also said. Hours before the effectivity of Christmas truce between security forces and the communist rebels, the NPA attacked another military truck carrying soldiers and disaster equipment in Northern Samar, the military reported Tuesday. Capt. Isagani Viernes, spokesman of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, Samar, said one soldier was killed while three others were wounded in the attack that occurred at the farming town of Las Navas around dawn Tuesday.

PH okays dengue vaccine

Cannon festival. Kidapawan residents start a Kanyong Kawayan Festival to discourage people from using fireworks during the holidays. GEONARRI SOLMERANO

THE Philippines became the first Asian country on Tuesday to approve the sale of the world’s first-ever dengue vaccine. Dengvaxia, manufactured by French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi, secured its first regulatory approval in Mexico a fortnight ago and is currently being reviewed by around 20 countries in Asia and Latin America. It is hoped the drug could eventually help prevent millions of deaths from dengue, the world’s fastestgrowing mosquito-borne disease. The World Health Organization says as many as 400 million people are infected worldwide every year, and two-thirds are in Asia. “It’s a major step in the prevention of dengue and for public health,” Olivier Charmeil, head of Sanofi’s vaccines division, said in a statement. Scientists have long been stumped by dengue, which has four separate strains, forcing researchers to find a drug able to fight all of them at once. Clinical tests—carried out on

40,000 people from 15 countries— have found Dengvaxia can immunize two-thirds of people aged nine years and older, rising to 93 percent for the more severe form of the disease, dengue haemorrhagic fever. It was also found to reduce the risk of hospitalization by 80 percent. Dengue can trigger a crippling fever, along with muscle and joint pain. There is no known cure, and children are at particular risk. The deadliest form of the disease kills 22,000 people a year, the WHO says. It was once considered a disease of the tropics, endemic in only nine countries, but globalization, urbanization, climate change and jet travel are helping it to move into more temperate zones. It is now endemic in more than 100 countries. The WHO says cases have risen 30fold over the last 50 years, with more than half the world’s population potentially at risk. AFP

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Comelec acted in bad faith—Grasya StreSSing that the weight of the law, evìdence and the jurisprudence on the matter of natural born and residency are clearly on the side of leading presidential candidate Senator grace Poe, a broad based coalition of her supporters here and overseas denounced the decisions of the Comelec en banc quashing her presidential bid. In a statement, Ang Grasya ng Masang Pilipino Movement (Grasya) spokesman Jose Samson denounced the Comelec en banc decision branding it as a “travesty of truth, justice and fair play.” Samson, a law professor, cited three failures by Comelec in deciding against Grace Poe’s candidacy: 1) The commissioners concerned knew that there was legal, historical, practical basis for the claim that foundlings as a rule are natural born citizens of the state they are found or born in; 2) that their decision not to recognize and apply such knowledge and information unto the case of Grace is a blatant act of injustice against foundlings and all who are powerless and innocent; 3) that the doubt created by the “unique circumstances” attendant to the case of Grace must—by all standards of what are fair and just in a civilized society—benefit the innocent and powerless foundling or at the very least must not be used to deny the sovereign citizens the proper exercise of their sovereign act of choosing servant leader.

DQ. Supporters of Senator Grace Poe rally in front of the Comelec headquarters on Dec. 23, 2015 after the poll body en banc issued a decision disqualifying her presidential bid. Ey AcAsio

Painters’ meat, consumers’ poison? By Joel E. Zurbano EnvIronMEnTAl group Ecowaste Coalition on Wednesday urged the people not to use paint brushes to apply basting sauce on barbeque and grilled meat, saying these contain high lead levels that can poison a consumer. Instead of paint brushes, a foodgrade basting or pastry brushes should be used, or, if these are not available, improvised mops made from banana, lemon grass or pandan leaves will serve the purpose, the group said. Ecowaste, an active advocate of lead-poisoning prevention, revealed that the handles of some paint brushes are laded with lead way above the threshold limit of 90 (parts per million) ppm for lead in paint. It also exlained that a chemical screening of 20 paint brushes they

earlier bought for P10 to P84 each 8,941 ppm, Croco with 8,152 ppm, from hardware and general mer- Yuko with 6,296 and MMT with chandise stores in cities of Makati, 5,991 ppm. Mandaluyong, Manila, Pasay and “With frequent use, it is very likeQuezon Cities showed exceedingly ly that the lead paint on the brush high lead levels. handle will deteriorate and contamThe group used a handheld X-ray inate the basting sauce rubbed on Fluorescence device to identify and the meat that is eventually eaten by quantify toxic metals such as lead humans,” said Thony Dizon, Ecowon the mostly yellow paint coatings aste Project Protect coordinator. of the brush handles. “While further study is needed out of 20 samples, 17 had lead to determine potential lead concontent ranging from 329 to 18,300 tamination, we advise food preparppm. Significant amounts of arsenic, ers to err on the side of caution and cadmium, chromium and mercury discontinue using paint brushes in were also found in most of these 17 food preparations,” he said. samples. Based on the group’s ocular inThe top 10 paint brushes with vestigation, street vendors often the highest lead content are lo- use paint brushes to mop sauce tus with 18,300 ppm, Dragon Fly on barbecue or grilled meat, or to with14,900 ppm, an unbranded spread margarine on other holiday brush with 10,100 ppm, Hippo with favorites such as “bibingka” (rice 10,000 ppm, Camel with 9,643 ppm, cake) and “puto bumbong” (steamed 2B with 9,241 ppm, Butterfly with sticky rice).

The World Health organization publication “Exposure to lead: A Major Public Health Concern” stated that lead is “a cumulative toxicant that affects multiple body systems, including the neurologic, hematologic, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal systems.” “The potential for adverse effects of lead exposure is greater for children than for adults, because in children 1) the intake of lead per unit body weight is higher, 2) more dust may be ingested, 3) lead absorption in the gastrointestinal tract is higher, 4) the blood–brain barrier is not yet fully developed and 5) neurological effects occur at lower levels than in adults,” it said. “Exposure of pregnant women to high levels of lead can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth and low birth weight, as well as minor malformations,” it pointed out.

Abide by pay rules, employers urged By Vito Barcelo

Traditional fare. Workers prepare roast pigs (lechon) two days before Christmas in La Loma, Quezon City on Wednesday, Dec. 23. JAnsEn RomERo

THE Department of labor and Employment reminded private sector employers to observe the pay rules for the Christmas and new Year holidays. “I urge you to share your blessings and joy of the season and, in the interest of our workers’ welfare and protection, pay them correctly during the holidays. voluntary compliance with labor laws by observing the pay rules and other core labor and occupational safety and health standards during the holidays is good for business,” labor Secretary rosalinda Baldoz said. She said that “if the employee did not work, he or she shall be paid 100 percent of his or her salary for that

day and if the employee worked, he or she shall be paid 200 percent of his or her regular salary for that day for the first eight hours. “But if the employee worked in excess of 8 hours [overtime work], he or she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his or her hourly rate and if the employee worked during a regular holiday that also falls on his or her rest day, he or she shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his or her daily rate of 200 percent. For contractual employee who did not work, the “no-work, nopay” principle shall apply, unless there is a favorable company policy, practice, or collective bargaining agreement granting payment on these special days, she added.

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Customs’ collection falls • Holidays, truck ban blamed for sagging revenue

By Vito Barcelo

The Bureau of Customs earned P29.1 billion in duties and taxes but missed its collection goal in November by 27.4 percent, preliminary data showed.

Slex patrollers cited. The Manila Toll Expressway Systems Inc.’s president and chief executive officer Manuel M. Bonoan (left)

presented certificates of excellent performance to 10 patrollers of South Luzon Expressway for the period Nov. 2014-Nov. 2015. These patrollers were commended for hard work as shown by their strict but fair enforcement of traffic and safety rules necessary to ensure a more secured and safer travel on SLEX. The commended patrollers are Apolonio Ylarde, Jerome Villegas, Monrico Navarro, Francis Kenneth Tabucao, Aaron Flores, Fernan Molinawe, Gryvic Acedilla, CFO Melvin Nazareno, Operations Head Alec Cruz and (from extreme right) SLEX Patrol Supervisor Ezer Nicholas and Head of Traffic Management Col. Inocencio Silbol, PAF (Ret.). Not in photo are patrollers Jayson Fresnedi, Rodrigo Rufin and Caesar Azarcon.

MMDA: More enforcers needed to manage traffic By Joel E. Zurbano THE Metro Manila Development Authority on Wednesday said the deployment of 2,400 traffic enforcers to assist police personnel managing traffic is not enough to grapple with the holiday travel rush. “Sa laki kasi ng Metro Manila, we lacked personnel to handle traffic,” said lawyer Crisanto Saruca, chief of the MMDA Traffic Discipline Office. He said MMDA Chairman Emerson Carlos ordered the deployment of all traffic constables assigned in three shifting schedules to help the Police Highway Patrol

Group in manning traffic on major thoroughfares, especially along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue. Saruca explained that during the holiday season, people go to shopping malls, restaurants, entertainment centers, and other commercial districts, resulting in the increased vehicle volume in the metropolis. “We have our Christmas parties in schools, houses and other venues. We go gift shopping for our loved ones,” said Saruca, citing the reasons for the overcrowding along Edsa and other major thoroughfares. He added increase in traffic volume can also be attributed to

the influx of people and vehicles coming from Southern Tagalog and Central Luzon to go shopping, visit and spend the holidays with friends and relatives. Saruca said the holiday rush slows the flow of traffic in Metro Manila brought about by the huge volume of vehicles, exceeding the capacity of Edsa by 75 percent. The Edsa’s carrying capacity is 160,000 vehicles per direction. Before the holiday season, 260,000 vehicles travel per direction along the main thoroughfare on a daily basis. Senator Francis Escudero earlier called on the MMDA to deploy its traffic enforcers to other major

road arteries to complement its counterparts at the Highway Patrol Group stationed along Edsa. Escudero’s move came after he noticed the lack of traffic enforcers manning other major roads last week, when traffic was expected to be heavy because of Christmas parties and last-minute shopping. “We have put so much attention on trying to fix the traffic on Edsa and it seems that traffic elsewhere have been overlooked just like last Friday when I received many text and social media messages about the absence of MMDA traffic enforcers on major national Metro Manila roads,” he said.

For the month of November, Customs chalked up P29.1 billion, which was P10.9 billion or 27.4 percent below the P40.0-billion target for the month and lower by P2.2 billion or 6.9 percent compared with the P31.2-billion November 2014 collections. The bureau partly cited the long nonworking days during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit due to limited port activity which had severely affected revenues. It also noted that truck bans, road closures and traffic rerouting schemes within the ports’ perimeters further pulled down the daily average collection from P2 billion to as low as P50 million. “It may also be highlighted that special non-working holidays imposed in Metro Manila on Nov. 18 and 19 resulted in closed banks, further limiting business transactions at the ports,” the BoC said. The decline in collection was also driven by the decrease in the total value of imports by 7.2 percent despite the increase in the total volume of importation by 12.8 percent. For non-oil, volume of imports grew by 19.4 percent. However, the effect of low world price oil that reduce production cost and lower value of imports by 0.8 percent resulted to a modest collection growth of 1.7 percent. For oil products, both volume and value of imports decreased by 10.2 percent and 47.2 percent. Likewise, total oil collection decreased by 37.9 percent, to P4.2 billion from P6.8 billion in November 2014.

Marcos urges DSWD to step up relief By Macon Araneta

Republic of the Philippines Co m mi sion on El ec t ions M anila NOTI CE TO THE PUBLI C A ll interested Per sons with D isabilities (PW Ds) and Senior Citizens (SCs) are invited to at tend the public hear ing and c onsult ation on the transfer of polling prec inc ts to identif ied malls sc heduled on 0 4 Januar y 2016, M onday, 2:0 0 P. M. at the 3 rd Floor of Palac io del G ober nador, Postigo Street, Intramuros, M anila. For the list of all af fec ted barangays, please c hec k the of f ic ial CO M ELEC website (c omelec.gov.ph).

( T S - D E C . 2 4 , 2 015 )

SENATOr Ferdinand “Bongbong” r. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday appealed to the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other agencies to beef up relief efforts in areas devastated by Typhoon “Nona.” Marcos aired the call after visiting the province of Nueva Ecija where some areas were inundated by floods. “While the weather has cleared and many of us are looking forward to celebrate Christmas, let us not for-

get that many people have lost their homes and what few belongings they have. Now, more than ever, they should feel that the government cares for them,” said Marcos. “Thankfully, as of the Dec. 22 situation report of the National Disaster risk reduction and Management Council, a total of 63,184 families comprising of 286,552 individuals affected by the typhoon and flooding were provided assistance.” The senator took note of the flooding in several towns in Bulacan, Pampanga, and the town of

Baler in Aurora, as well as landslides in various areas that experienced heavy rains brought by the typhoon. He said the DSWD and other agencies should continue to exert all efforts to reach all the typhoon victims and provide them food and a safe place to stay even temporarily. “That is the least the government can do to alleviate their sufferings this Christmas. I hope we won’t hear again of stories about dumping of undistributed relief goods that got rotten in a warehouse somewhere,” he added.

Street display. Vendors wait for buyers of Christmas lanterns on display along a street in Manila on Dec. 22, 2015. Lanterns are displayed in houses, offices, buildings, and streets, and according to Filipino tradition and beliefs, also represent the victory of light over darkness. AFP

t h u r s d ay : d e c e m B e r 24 , 2 0 1 5

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‘Palawan hospital can treat firecracker injuries’ By Macon Ramos-Araneta

Going with the flow. A couple exchanges vows by the Sitio Kilat River in Barangay Bumbuneg, San Gabriel, La Union. CHRISTINE JUNIO

Police nab SAF member for rape, rescue victim By Florante S. Solmerin

A former member of the police’s Special Action force who went on absence without official leave was arrested in Barangay Tara, Sipocot, Camarines Sur on Tuesday over a rape complaint as authorities also rescued his 15-year-old victim in the same barangay. Senior Superintendent Marlon Tejada, regional chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, said the suspect, Police Officer 1 Henry Quiñones, did not resist arrest when the

team cornered him at his hideout at around 7:55 a.m. “The rescue operation against Quiñones was based on the complaint filed by a young girl and her father for rape and

abduction of the victim by a certain Renato Suarez y Del Barrio, 41, that led to his subsequent arrest,” Tejada said. The police later learned that Suarez and Quiñones was one and the same person. Tejada said a caliber .45 pistol loaded with magazine and ammo and a police identification card were confiscated from Quiñones. He said Quiñones is a resident of Basud, Camarines Norte whose last assignment before he

went Awol in 2010 was the SAF unit. “We also found out that Quiñones has a pending warrant of arrest for murder in Daet, Camarines Norte which is now subject for verification from the court,” Tejada said. Quiñones is facing a rape case in relation to RA 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, exploitation and Discrimination Act), violation of RA 10591 (Firearms and Ammunition Law) and Usurpation of Authority.

THe Department of Health-Mimaropa office on Wednesday assured the residents of Puerto Princesa City that Ospital ng Palawan is equipped and ready to admit patients with firecracker injuries and provide prompt medical treatment to victims of firecracker and pyrotechnics. Regional Director eduardo C. Janairo appealed to all adults to supervise children this holiday season and exercise extreme vigilance and caution against using firecrackers and pyrotechnics. He also encouraged them to use alternative noise makers like hooters, sirens and playing loud music. “Don’t risk your life, your family and friends by lighting up a firecracker and teasingly throwing it upwards or near a crowd of people,” said Janairo. “When you see children playing with firecrackers, seize it immediately and put it away. Remind them on the dangers of lighting a firecracker and the injuries they may sustain,” he emphasized. Records from ONP showed there were 18 reported injury cases of firecrackers in Palawan in 2014, 80 percent higher compared to the 10 reported cases in 2013. Ospital ng Palawan is a DoH-retained hospital and one of the sentinel sites of Iwas Paputok 2015. According to Janairo, all health facilities in the region will be placed in Code White Alert from Dec. 21, 2015 to Jan. 5, 2016 in preparation for injuries and incidents from firecrackers and pyrotechnics. He said all hospital personnel will be on standby for deployment and augmentation as the need arises for additional medical and other emergency services. DOH-Mimaropa, together with representatives from the City Health Office, Philippine National Police will be conducting pre-Christmas and New Year rounds both in private and government health facilities around the city to ensure health and safety of everyone and that no illegal fireworks will be distributed and sold.

Bicol workers get wage hike By Vito Barcelo WORkeRS in the Bicol Region will receive a fitting gift this Christmas—a wage increase. The Labor Department approved a P12 per day wage increase to minimum wage earners in non-agricultural establishment with more than 10 workers while P5 per day increase to workers employed in establishments who employ less than 10 workers. Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said the National Wages and Productivity Commission affirmed the newest wage order of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board of Region V raising minimum wages in the Bicol Region which will become effective on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2015. The wage board opted to adjust the minimum wage rates, after a series of public hearings and deliberation, to enable workers to cope with the rising cost of commodities. Baldoz said that the decision to grant an increase in the minimum wage of

workers in the region is aimed at balancing the needs of workers and the viability of business and industry. “The minimum wage of workers in non-agriculture establishments will be P265 per day. Workers in non-agriculture establishments employing not more than 10 workers; cottage/handicraft, and in agriculture establishments will be receiving P248 per day,” she said. The new rates apply to all minimum wage earners in the private sector regardless of their position and irrespective of the methods by which their wages are paid. Household or domestic helpers, persons employed in the personal service of another, including family drivers and workers in Barangay Micro Business enterprises, are not covered by the new wage order. In determining the new minimum wage, the Regional Wage Board in Bicol acted motu propio and took into consideration the concept that the minimum wage is not just to restore the purchasing power of workers, but to provide a safety net for vulnerable workers and afford equity.

Still there. The San Isidro Labrador Church in Calumpit, Bulacan is still submerged in floodwater a few days before Christmas. AFP

T H U R S D AY : D E C E M B E R 24 , 2 0 1 5

OPINION

ADELLE CHUA EDITOR

lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

OPINION

POP GOES THE WORLD JENNY ORTUOSTE

CLASS VERSUS CRASS

[ EDI TORI A L ]

WHAT WE HAVE CHRISTMAS is a time for taking stock of what did and did not happen in the past year. To be sure, many things did happen. We saw big and small news items alike in our headlines, occasioning both jubilation and desperation. Our national and local leaders have given us much to talk about and ponder. Their words and actions amused and enraged us. Despite much that has happened, however, many also did not take place. And this is what has made Filipinos feel shortchanged. In 2010, we were assured that the administration of President Aquino will do everything it can to narrow the income gap in the country. It popularized the mantra that there would be no poor people if there are no corrupt government officials. In pursuance of this, it went after its political enemies unrelentingly, to the point of providing incentives to lawmakers to oust a sitting chief justice and jailing an ailing former president even as the evidence against her appeared weak. The administration also conveniently forgot that improving the economy means creating conditions for business and investments to thrive so that its benefits could trickle down to the ordinary man on the street. Alas, despite pronouncements of nominal growth and credit rating upgrades, a majority of Filipinos say they have not felt any change at all before and after the Aquino administration came to power. Many are still jobless and those that are working are confronted with hostile conditions going to and from their workplaces. More than the practice of taking stock, however, Christmas is also the time to be thankful for the big and little things that we have instead of griping about the things we think we ought to have but don’t. This administration has taught us to distinguish between posturing and hard work. Not all who call attention to themselves are actually doing their jobs. So forget about the flashy players and the big talkers: We remain thankful that many of our public officials—save for some rotten eggs— continue to toil away at their desks, and honestly, with their measly pay. We also learned to count ourselves in. It is not solely up to the government to make our life better. We do our part and participate in the best way we can. We are vigilant and air our views using the means available to us. Because of this administration, we learned to look at merit instead of mere affiliation. One does not become brilliant just because a relative is. Indeed, there are many things to be thankful for this season—one just needs to learn how to look. We hope the coming year would give us more.

RELENTLESS DUTY CALLS FLORENCIO FIANZA TIME really flies. Another year is ending. At this time of the year, it is customary for everyone to look back to what has happened over the past year and to what the coming new year will bring. Looking back over the past year, the nation continued to suffer from more ferocious and destructive ty-

phoons. The administration however, continues to rely on the same government system that has proven to be a failure in the past and refuse to institute reforms in this area. We also hosted the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit and spent P10 billion not to mention the other economic losses due to the shutdown of the metropolitan area for days. The administration also continues to trumpet our continued economic growth as one of its most singular accomplish-

ments without acknowledging the contribution of past administrations for setting and preparing the stage for faster and sustained economic growth. In short, the past year was difficult but the nation managed to keep its head well above water. The coming year on the other hand will be another watershed year for the nation because in about five months, we will be choosing a new president that will lead the country to a more challenging future. Sustaining

In short, the past year was difficult but the nation managed to keep its head well above water.

and improving our economic performance, finding a solution to the Mindanao problem and tackling our problem in the South China Sea or West Philippine Sea as we call it all need the attention of the next president. One good point in having more presidential candidates is that it affords the electorate a better field of choice. The downside of this is that we will end up with a minority president as we have been having over the past four presidential elections. We do not have a runoff election in this country. It appears however, that the administration

is relentless in trying to force its candidates upon the Filipino electorate. We all know that President Aquino out of his sense of loyalty chose Mar Roxas to succeed him. This was in spite of the common knowledge that Mar Roxas has a slim of winning. Now, the administration appears to be using all the tools at its disposal to eliminate all those who pose a threat to the candidacy of Mar Roxas. After dribbling the case for days in order to lessen the time

Published Monday to Sunday by Philippine Manila Standard Publishing Inc. at 6/F Universal Re Building, 106 Paseo de Roxas, corner Perea St., Legaspi Village, Makati City. Telephone numbers 832-5554, 832-5556, 832-5558 (connecting all departments), (Editorial), 832-5546, (Advertising), 832-

for appeal, the Comelec en banc has finally decided to disqualify Senator Grace Poe. In spite of Palace denials, no one believes that it did not have a hand in Senator Poe’s disqualification. Now, only the Supreme Court can save the good senator. It would seem that Senators Poe and Escudero underestimated the resolve of the administration to neutralize them and even play dirty. Maybe both thought that their being frontrunners would offer some

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protection. Obviously, this is not the case. The administration seems to be taking no chances. Continued on A11

LOWDOWN JOJO A. ROBLES Mr. Robles’ column will resume next week.

MST Management, Inc. Philip G. Romualdez Arnold C. Liong Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Jocelyn F. Domingo Ron Ryan S. Buguis Anita F. Grefal Treasury Manager

Chairman President & Chief Executive Officer Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Director of Operations Finance Officer Edgar M. Valmorida Circulation Manager

ONLINE bashers should let up on Steve Harvey—tao lang, people make mistakes. While it was indeed unfortunate that he flubbed at the crucial moment—you had one job, Steve—it was understandable after we saw that card he read from with the tiny print and the ill-designed layout. For all the expense shelled out to stage the Miss Universe 2015 pageant, could they not hire a graphic designer, or at least someone who knows how it should be done (large font, bold name of winner, clear hierarchy)? Steve’s apology was gracious, sincere, and remorseful. His dejected exit off-stage after his explanation was sorrowful to see. There was no conspiracy, no PR stunt. Having had years of experience myself of live performance on TV and radio, I know how it is to make mistakes on air after a long and tiring event. It really does happen, and you beat yourself up about it afterward, no need for outside help, thank you very much. What makes the situation sadder for me is that I actually like Steve Harvey, after having read his book Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man: What Men Really Think About Love, Relationships, Intimacy, and Commitment. His advice is straightforward, much of which you’ve probably already heard or know from common sense and experience. What makes the book a must-read is that the same values seem to span cultures— “You’ve got to quit lowering your standards,” is one of them. Harvey prides himself on being the best he can be, and this experience has most likely made him miserable, especially after the nuclear fallout on social media from several of the less-than-ladylike contestants, one of whom was Miss Colombia herself, Ariadna Gutierrez and Miss Germany, Sarah-Lorraine Riek, who said she’s “really not happy” with the outcome. Watching some of the contestants box out Miss Philippines Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach on stage right after Harvey’s debacle was harrowing— it was like that Mean Girls movie, but worse because it was real life. It looked like there’d be hair-pulling and dress-tearing any moment.

Continued on A11

Rolando G. Estabillo Jojo A. Robles Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Francis Lagniton Joyce Pangco Pañares Adelle Chua Romel J. Mendez Roberto Cabrera

Publisher Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor City Editor Senior Deskman Art Director Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editiorial Board

T H U R S D AY : D E C E M B E R 24 , 2 0 1 5

OPINION

ADELLE CHUA EDITOR

lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

OPINION

POP GOES THE WORLD JENNY ORTUOSTE

CLASS VERSUS CRASS

[ EDI TORI A L ]

In short, the past year was difficult but the nation managed to keep its head well above water.

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protection. Obviously, this is not the case. The administration seems to be taking no chances. Continued on A11

LOWDOWN JOJO A. ROBLES Mr. Robles’ column will resume next week.

MST Management, Inc. Philip G. Romualdez Arnold C. Liong Former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno Jocelyn F. Domingo Ron Ryan S. Buguis Anita F. Grefal Treasury Manager

Chairman President & Chief Executive Officer Board Member & Chief Legal Adviser Director of Operations Finance Officer Edgar M. Valmorida Circulation Manager

Continued on A11

Rolando G. Estabillo Jojo A. Robles Ramonchito L. Tomeldan Chin Wong/Ray S. Eñano Francis Lagniton Joyce Pangco Pañares Adelle Chua Romel J. Mendez Roberto Cabrera

Publisher Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Associate Editors News Editor City Editor Senior Deskman Art Director Chief Photographer

Emil P. Jurado Chairman Emeritus, Editiorial Board

T H U R S D AY : D E C E M B E R 24 , 2 0 1 5

A10

OPINION lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

THE TALE OF ‘THE SON’ TO THE POINT EMIL P. JURADO

TODAY, Christmas Eve, I’m repeating the tale of “The Son,” which I have written about before. Some of my friends requested that I do this; they said they had been touched by the story, even to the point of shedding tears. It’s also a time to meditate why the Son of God came down from heaven, was born of the Virgin Mary, became a lowly carpenter like his foster father St. Joseph, and went on a mission of evangelization, only to be crucified on a cruel Cross, and resurrected after three days.

Only he who accepts the son gets everything.

The tale of “The Son” as written by an unknown writer goes like this: A wealthy man and his son loved to collect rare works of art. They had everything in the collection, from Picasso to Raphael. They would often sit together and admire the great works of art. When the Vietnam conflict broke out, the son went to war. He was very courageous and died in battle while rescuing another soldier. The father was notified and grieved deeply for his only son. About a month later, just before Christmas Day, there was a knock at his door. A young man stood at the door with a large package in his hands. He said: “Sir, you don’t know me, but I am the soldier for whom your son gave his life. He saved many lives that day, and he was carrying me to safety when a bullet struck him in the heart and he died instantly. He often talked about you, and your love for art.” The young man held

out his package to the father, and said, “I know this isn’t much, I’m not really a great artist, but, I think your son would have wanted you to have this.” The father opened the package. It was a portrait of his son painted by the young man. He stared in awe at the way the soldier had captured the personality of his son in the painting. The father was so drawn to the eyes that his own eyes welled up with tears. He thanked the young man and offered to pay him for the portrait. “Oh no, sir, I could never repay what your son did for me. It’s a gift.” The father hung the portrait over his mantle. Every time visitors came to his home he took them to see the portrait of his son, before he showed them any of the other great works of art he had collected. The father died a few months later. There was to be a great auction of his paintings. Many influential people gathered, excited over seeing the great paintings and having an opportunity to purchase one for their collection. On the platform sat the painting of the son. The auctioneer pounded on his gavel, and said: “We will be start the bidding with this portrait of the son. Who will bid for his painting?” There was silence. Then a voice in the back of the room shouted. “We want to see the famous paintings. Skip this one.” But, the auctioneer persisted. Will someone bid for his painting? Who will start the bidding? $100, $200?” Another voice shouted angrily. “We did not come here to see this painting. We came here to see the Van Goghs, the Rembrandts. Get on with the real bids.” But, still the auctioneer continued: “The son! The son! Who’ll take the son?” Finally, a voice came from the very back of the room. It was the long-time gardener of the father and his son. “I’ll give $10 for the portrait.” Being a poor man, it was all he could afford. “We have $10, who will bid $20?” The room was filled with shouts. “Give it to him for $10.

PEACE IS THE PRESENCE OF GOD IN US BESIDES Lenten season, Christmas is probably the most popular of the holy days on the Christian calendar. The term “Christmas” comes from the Old English Cristes Maesse, which means “the Mass of Christ” and since its conception several centuries back, it has become an intimate time of gift giving, reconciliation and goodwill. Truly it is a joyous time for all, and our children’s eyes rich or poor, never fail to light up at the mention of Santa Claus or Father Christmas. This year’s Yuletide season, however, falls in an environment where we are faced with a number of challenges like increasing poverty, rising prices of basic commodities, political divisiveness, corruption, as well as accidents and calamities that has caused the loss of family and loved ones. We are coming close to a tipping point born from the injustice and insecurity of our times where the weak are socially, economically, morally and politically oppressed, and the few who have been voted to the echelons of power, those who supposedly should be guaranteeing the security and well being of our people have Let’s see the masters.” But, the auctioneer continued, “$10 is the bid, won’t someone bid for $20?” The crowd was becoming restless and angry. They didn’t want the portrait of the son. They wanted the worthy investments for their collections. The auctioneer pounded and said “Going once, twice, SOLD for $10?” A man on the second row stood up and shouted, “Now let’s get with the collection of masters!” But the auctioneer laid down his gavel. “I’m sorry, the auction is over. When I was called to conduct this auction, I was told of a secret stipulation in the will of the father. I was not allowed to reveal the stipulation until this time. Only the painting of the son would be auctioned. Whoever bought that painting would inherit the entire estate, including the painting. The man who took the son gets everything. God gave us His Son, Jesus Christ, 2,000 years ago to die on a cruel cross to same man kind. Much like the auctioneer, His message this Christmas eve is, “The Son, the Son, who’ll take the Son?” With this thought and message of God to one and all, I wish all a Blessed and Very Happy Christmas

MINORITY REPORT DANILO SUAREZ instead, been steeped in inequity and self aggrandizement, blind and insensitive to the continuing ordeal of the majority of our countrymen. Inadvertently, this has built a massive wall that has hindered most from experiencing a meaningful celebration of Christmas. Amidst these challenges however, we need to help each one remember the message of peace, justice and reconciliation that Christmas brings. It was through the birth of Christ as a human, when the “Word was made flesh,” that God so humbly expressed Himself in frailty of the human vessel. Through this act, we have been given the opportunity to identify with God and with the values and virtues of heaven. In this sense, we are granted an open door not only to come nearer the true image from which we have been molded, but similarly, to gain deeper recognition of our role as our brother’s

tomorrow. In this world, nothing is worth much more than “The Son.” *** Now, back to more mundane things, like politics which we, Filipino, eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The decision of the Comelec en banc, which will be promulgated today, disqualifying Mrs. Mary Grace Natividad Kelly Poe Llamanzares from running for president because she is not a natural-born citizen and that she did not meet the 10-year residency requirement for the post was not unexpected. Considering the fact that the decisions of the First Division was a 2-1 and the Second Division was unanimous at 3-0, it would logically follow that the en banc decision would be for the disqualification of Mrs. Llamanzares. This will not stop the lawyers of Mrs. Llamanzares, however, from elevating the case to the Supreme Court, whose decision would be final and executory. The problem, however, is this: Will the Comelec continue to have Mrs. Llamanzares in the list of presidential candidates since the case would still be decided by the Supreme Court? If the name of Mrs. Llamanzares will still be in the roll of candidates for President,

keepers and responsible stewards of His creation. Moreover, Christmas reminds us that the peace of God comes to us only by his presence in our lives. God came to us, in the person of Jesus in the midst of conflict, persecution, and abuse of political authority. Nevertheless He brought peace to the world not by taking away or removing problems, but by adding his presence to the world as declared by His name Immanuel—God with us. Therefore in celebrating the true spirit of Christmas we similarly celebrate and animate the peace and joy of reconciliation that God’s presence brings in our lives. As we come to the pinnacle of this year’s Yuletide season, I invite each and every one to remain fervently committed in the common goal of building a better future for our country. Christ is the star we follow and it is His light that will guide us through the night until the new day dawns upon us. As the Good Book says: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be satisfied.” (Matt. 5:6) Maligayang Pasko sa lahat at isang Manigong Bagong Taon!

and the Supreme Court will finally disqualify her, her votes would be considered “stray,” and thus, would not be counted, in effect disenfranchising those who will vote for her. Logically, there’s no way Mrs. Llamanzares will not be disqualified. Just as all the Comelec commissioners are lawyers who are presumed to know their law and the Constitution, the Supreme Court, which is mandated to interpret the law and the Constitution will rule that Mrs. Llamanzares is not naturalborn and did not meet the 10-year residency requirement under the Constitution. You don’t have to be a lawyer, much more a rocket scientist to know why. I am sure Mrs. Llamanzares knows deep in her heart that she’ll surely be disqualified. Even her supporters and the people wishing her to be President know for sure what is inevitable for her. That’s why I’m suggesting that Mrs. Llamanzares withdraw her Certificate of Candidacy to save face and save money. Personally, I like Mrs. Llamanzares. I praised her as chairperson of the MTRCB or the Movies and Television Ratings and Classification Board, and even as senator despite her

being a neophyte. But, everything has its time. Give her three years more in the Senate and she’ll surely be President in 2022. But then, she’ll have to contend with the question of not being a natural-born citizen as required by the Constitution. Looking back, I wonder if the issue of citizenship and residency would have been brought up had she run for vice president instead. *** The Pulse Asia poll survey showing Vice President Jojo Binay bouncing back as No. 1 in the presidential race is also not surprising. Note that in all surveys with Mrs. Llamanzares leading, Binay’s rating never went below 20 percent. Among this group are those who have already made up their minds to vote for him. It was the same core support Binay had when he won against Mar Roxas for vice president. This core support for Binay, which he can easily improve on, springs from the fact that he has campaigned in places where no presidential candidate has ever gone. He also has the core support of local government executives whom he has supported financially and given material aid to during his years as mayor. Continued on A11

T H U R S D AY : D E C E M B E R 24 , 2 0 1 5

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OPINION lettertotheeditor@thestandard.com.ph

FIGHTING SLAVERY, ONE SUPPLIER AT A TIME boat to the canning line, to outside scrutiny. The idea isn’t as far-fetched as it AS YOU dig into your shrimp might sound. “Traceability,” as the cocktail this holiday season, spare concept is called, is practiced in a thought for the men and women who peeled those tiny crustaceans. industries ranging from palm oil According to a six-month Associ- to fashion. For example, outdoorated Press investigation, there’s a clothing manufacturer Patagonia chance the workers were modern- recently pledged full transparency day slaves in Thailand, exploited in the production of the down fillby shadowy suppliers who have ing that goes into its coats. The been linked to some of the biggest company now collates and audits US supermarket and restaurant paperwork tracing the product’s chains, from Wal-Mart to the Capi- journey from farm to factory. In other industries, traceability tal Grille. occurs in real time, with each step While horrifying, those revelations are sadly familiar. In-depth on the supply chain recorded and investigations of slave labor in tracked with bar codes. For comThailand’s seafood industry date panies who do it well, the benefits back at least to 2013. According to transcend corporate social responone report, nearly 60 percent of sibility. Knowing supply chains insurveyed Thai shrimp workers had depth means companies can better witnessed a murder in their work- control quality, costs and product place. In May, embarrassed and un- safety. The US seafood industry already der US and EU pressure to clean up the abuses, Thailand’s prime minis- practices varying levels of traceter described the problem of slav- ability within the domestic seafood ery in his country’s seafood indus- supply chain. But 90 percent of US seafood is imported (Thailand is try as “severe.” Eliminating the practice is going the third-largest supplier), and the to require much more than arresting global seafood industry is rife with a few bad actors. US supermarkets, fraud. According to one study, as restaurants and wholesalers are much as 31 percent of the global going to have to demand that the seafood supply is illegally caught. Though the US has strict reguThai seafood industry open its lations on imported seafood and supply chains, from the fishing

By Adam Minter

Relentless... From A9 The next on the sight of the administration is Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. The lawyer who filed the disqualification case against Senator Poe also filed the disqualification case against Mayor Duterte. Coincidence? It is hard to believe so. Also, reliable information has it that charges are being readied to be filed against the Mayor to destroy his viability. With the two frontrunners gone, that would leave VP Binay and Senator Santiago as Mar Roxas’ opponents. It is probably difficult for the administration to get VP Binay and Senator Santiago disqualified. But the administration is betting that with the numerous cases being filed against VP Binay and children, this would be enough to destroy his chances as a candidate. Still, VP Binay has bounced back as the frontrunner in the latest Pulse Asia survey which shows that what this administration is

The tale... From A10 And don’t forget that as chairman of the Boy Scout of the Philippines, Binay is visible because the BSP calendar contains his photos. His face is plastered in many living rooms in cities, municipalities and

how it’s documented, only an estimated two percent of seafood imports are ever inspected. That has dinner-table consequences: a 2013 study of more than 1,200 seafood samples taken nationwide in the US between 2010 and 2012 found that a third of them had been mislabeled. (To take one example, only seven of the 120 samples of red snapper purchased nationwide were actually red snapper.) According to the AP investigation, some of that mislabeling takes place in the supply chains of large Thai seafood companies. Last week, for example, Whole Foods, which maintains a strict seafood traceability standard, was accused of selling slave-peeled shrimp from Thai Union, one of the world’s biggest seafood exporters. In response, Thai Union admitted it had bought shrimp from an “unregistered pre-processor,” but insisted that the slave-peeled shrimp had never made its way to Whole Foods; where it went wasn’t revealed. If Whole Foods is serious about maintaining its relationship with Thai Union, the company needs to ask and then publicize the answer. Major US seafood buyers can take additional steps as well. The first priority would be to unite behind longstanding efforts to create

doing is backfiring. The 2016 presidential elections is turning out to be like the 2010 elections. The administration in 2010 picked a candidate who was weak and unable to win the election. The previous administration also tried everything within its power to make its candidate win—but failed. During the 2010 elections, there were allegations of electronic vote rigging which although had a lot of basis were never investigated formally. Former President Arroyo, instead of trying to ensure a smooth transition of power for the sake of the country, tried to ensure that her successor would be of her own choosing. That seems to be exactly what President Aquino is trying to do. He wants his chosen successor, Mar Roxas to get elected ostensibly to continue with his daang matuwid or straight path program but the more likely reason is to ensure that he and his cohorts will not also go to jail.

Why does President Aquino persist on backing a horse that cannot win a race? There are many things said about President Aquino but he is not stupid. He must have thought about this thing very well. Maybe, he has something up his sleeve that we do not know about. Whatever it is, let us hope that it is not something like the 2010 elections which was allegedly marred with irregularities. President Aquino up to this point is enjoying better approval ratings than his predecessors which means that rightly or wrongly, the people seem to still believe in him. He should not destroy this just because he thinks that it is absolutely necessary to have Mar Roxas as his successor. He should just leave the choosing of the next president to the collective wisdom of the Filipino people and not simply ram someone whom they do not like. Merry Christmas and a better New Year for all of us.

barrios nationwide. The only significant thing in the Pulse Asia survey is the fact that Davao City Mayor Rodrigo “Du-Dirty” is statistically tied at no. 2 with Mrs. Llamanzares, and that administration candidate Mar Roxas is a poor fourth. With five months still to go

before Election Day, the question now is, will Binay remain a frontrunner? And with the impending disqualification of Mrs. Llamanzares, and “DuDirty” people are now saying that at the end of the day, it will finally be a Binay-versus-Mar fight for the presidency.

a Global Record of fishing vessels, demanding that their suppliers (and their suppliers, too) join. Though most Thai shrimp isn’t caught at sea, so-called “by catch” used as feed for shrimp farms is. That’s the bottom of the supply chain; documenting it will help to illuminate where shrimp is grown, peeled and packaged, as well as who’s doing the work. At the same time, US seafood importers need to make funding for certification, training and equipment available to the small businesses that form the seafood industry’s bottom rungs in Thailand and other countries—including fish farms and shrimp sheds that want to participate in the global supply chain. The good news is that major companies are already demanding or working on increasing traceability in their seafood supply chains. The more companies that join them, the more pressure it places on Thailand’s seafood industry to adopt best practices for all of its customers. Those changes will inevitably result in more expensive shrimp cocktails. But that’s a small price to pay for knowing that your seafood isn’t contributing to the scourge of modern-day slavery. Bloomberg

Class... From A9 However, Miss USA Olivia Jordan, Miss Australia Monika Radulovic, and Miss Bulgaria Radostina Todorova showed their class by encouraging Wurtzbach at that moment. It was Todorova we saw in the background laughing with her head thrown back and making a sweeping gesture at Pia as if to say, “Go!” Pia came through that experience with grace, showing kindness and compassion. That was the high point of the show. Never mind that detractors deplored her answer to the US bases question. She was asked her opinion and she gave it, said opinion not necessarily those of her government nor of some of her kababayans. It was rather an elegant side-stepping of the issue and she did it adroitly, considering she did not know in advance what the question would be and that she had to reply immediately. We are fortunate she had the presence of mind and intelligence enough to answer with sense. At least she didn’t blurt out “Pills!” She has tremendous confidence and belief in herself. Remember when she tweeted this after the PacquiaoMayweather disappointment last May: “Kalma lang guys. Ako bahala. Babawi tayo sa Miss Universe!” And by golly, she went and did it—one of the many uncanny things that surrounded this telenovela of an outcome. The Force is strong with this one. In the end, sour-grapers aside, Pia wears the crown. As she said on Instagram the day after the pageant, after “42 years of drought” since the last Filipina Miss Universe (Margie Moran in 1973), now “it finally reigns.” That’s puny. She’s the living personification of ‘never give up.’ Congratulations, Pia! And on that note, let us enjoy the holiday break. To my dear Pop Goes readers, thank you for reading this column over the past five-and-a-half years. May you and your families have a happy and peaceful Christmas. Blessed be. Facebook: Jenny Ortuoste, Twitter: @jennyortuoste, Instagram: @jensdecember

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SPORTS sports@thestandard.com.ph

22 foreign teams to join Le Tour Skyway marathon registration on

Cheerleaders from the Louisville Cardinals’ team perform during their team’s game against the Missouir-Kansas City Kangaroos in the Billy Minardi Classic at KFC YUM! Center in Louisville, Kentucky. AFP

ONLINE registration is ongoing for one of the country’s premier marathons. The Condura Skyway Marathon 2016 Run For a Hero is slated on Feb. 7 starting at 12 midnight. In the past years, the Condura run has championed a number of causes, such as the rehabilitation and protection of the Tubbataha Reefs in Sulu Sea; the whale sharks in Donsol, Sorsogon; the dolphins; and the mangroves. For the second consecutive year this year, the beneficiary of the multi-distance foot race is the Hero Foundation. Condura is staging its 2016 marathon for the benefit of the children of soldiers killed in action or those, who have become incapacitated in the line of duty as an appreciation for the sacrifices they have made for the country. Registration for the race, organized by Runrio Inc,, is done online at conduramarathon. com and can be paid through credit card or prepaid cards. Credit card registration is until Jan. 2, 2016. Registrants can select where they would pick up the race kits in any of the participating ASICS store nationwide from Jan. 18 to 23, 2016. Prepaid cards, on the other hand, are available in the following Asics stores: Greenbelt 3 in Makati City, Bonifacio High Street in Taguig City, Trinoma Mall in Quezon City; Centrio Mall in Cagayan de Oro City; Ayala Fairveiw Terraces in Quezon City, and Ayala Center in Cebu City. Entry fees are as follows: P900 for the 6K race, P1,000 for 10K, P1,700 for 21K and P2,000 for the 42K full marathon. All finishers will get a finisher’s medal, while finishers for the 42K and 21K will also get a special finisher’s shirt.

Philracom issues 2016 racing calendar THE Philippine Racing Commission recently issued their actionpacked racing calendar for 2016 featuring more sponsored major races than in previous years. Philracom kicks off the year with the Commissioner’s Cup on Jan. 17 at Metroturf Racecourse. The 1,800-meter race is open to horses 4YO and older and offers a hefty total purse of P1.2 million. Nomination is on Dec. 29.

A new “4YO and older” stakes race is set for Jan. 31 at Santa Ana Park. This is an innovation of the present Commission under Chairman Andrew A. Sanchez. “We anticipate that this new type of major race will attract more bettors because they provide opportunities for local horses to shine,” he said. Along this line, there will also be “3YO Locally-Bred” stakes races. February will be marked by a

Valentine’s Day event at San Lazaro Leisure Park—the first leg of the Import-Local Challenge for 4YO and older. The Summer Racing Festival across all racetracks starts on Mar. 26, and the much-anticipated first leg of the Triple Crown for elite local 3YO is set for May 15 at Santa Ana Park. The 2016 racing year will be capped by the Philracom Chairman’s Cup and 3YO Imported Fil-

lies Championship on Dec. 11. There are 38 stakes races for 2016, including two to be held during the Mayor Ramon D. Bagatsing Memorial racing festival in August. Not included here are the Philracom-sponsored stakes races for horseowners’ organizations MARHO, Philtobo, and Klub Don Juan de Manila, as well as charity races that may be held for worthy beneficiaries.

Fury’s potential foes clash NEW YORK—Four fighters seeking a potential showdown for an undisputed heavyweight boxing crown against Britain’s Tyson Fury will meet on the same New York card on January 16, promoters revealed Tuesday. Undefeated challengers Charles Martin and Vyacheslav Glazkov will fight for the vacant International Boxing Federation world title on the same Brooklyn card where unbeaten American Deontay Wilder defends his World Boxing Council crown against Poland’s Artur Szpilka. US southpaw Martin, 22-0 with one draw and 20 knockouts, puts his 16-fight win streak on the line against Ukraine’s Glazkov, 21-0 with one drawn and 13 knockouts. The fight was added to Wilder—35-0 with 34 knockouts —making his third title defense against Szpilka, who is 20-1 with 15 knockouts. Fury won the World Boxing Association title last month by taking a unanimous decision over Wladimir Klitschko, the long-time champion from Ukraine who is set for a rematch. Fury also won three other crowns, including the IBF title he quickly vacated. That set up the heavyweight title double-header, the first such bouts in Brooklyn for 115 years, and those winners could meet to unify the crowns and be ready for the FuryKlitschko winner late next year to decide an undisputed king. AFP

Head coach Jason Candle of the Toledo Rockets has sports drink poured on him after the game against the Temple Owls at FAU Stadium in Boca Raton, Florida. AFP

THE seventh edition of the Le Tour de Filipinas, the only International Cycling Unioncalendared road race in the country, has drawn the attention of 19 continental and three club teams from all four corners of the globe. Teams from United States, Europe and all over Asia have applied for participation in the Feb. 18 to 21 race that will head down south for the first time in its seven years of running. Asking to be invited for the first time in the Le Tour de Filipinas are continental teams Minsk Cycling Club (Belarus), Skydive Dubai Pro Cycling Team (United Arab Emirates), Team Sauerland p/b Henley & Partners (Germany), Team LVShan Landscape (China), GM Cycling Team (Italy), Dynamo Cover Pro Cycling Team (France), Kinan Cycling Team (Japan), Kenyan Riders Down Under (South Africa), Team Veral Classic (Belgium) and Alpha Baltic Maratoni Cycling Team (Latvia). Seeking to return to action on Philippine soil are Team Ukyo (Japan), Bridgestone Anchor Cycling Team (Japan), Team Novo Nordisk (USA), LX Cycling Team (Korea), Team Arbo Denzel Cliff (Austria), CCN Cycling Team (Laos), Dutch Global Cycling Team (Netherlands), Korail Cycling Continental Team (Korea), Attaque Team Gusto (Taiwan) and Pegasus Continental Cycling Team (Indonesia). All are also continental teams. Club teams from Britain (Archive Northside Skinnergate Team) Lithuania (Team Baltik Vairas) and Australia (Oliver’s Real Food Racing Team) are also lured to the Le Tour de Filipinas. “We get requests for invitation from all over the world in each edition of the Le Tour de Filipinas,” Donna Lina, President of race organizer Ube Media Inc., said on Wednesdsay. “This goes to show that racing in the Philippines is not only about the level of competition, but also the fun that the event brings with it.” “The Le Tour de Filipinas has the promotion of cycling as its primary objective, but the same premium is focused on promoting the Philippines as a tourist destination,” Lina added.

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SPORTS sports@thestandard.com.ph

Bulls lose injured Noah for 2 weeks CHICAGO—Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah will be sidelined for at least two weeks with a sprained left shoulder, missing at least six games, the NBA team announced Tuesday. Noah suffered the injury when he was tangled up with Brooklyn center Andrea Bargnani during Chicago’s 105-102 home loss to the Nets on Monday. Bulls coach Fred Hoiberg said Noah will be reevaluated in two weeks, just in time for a January 5 home game against Milwaukee if he has recovered. Noah will miss games Friday at Oklahoma City, Saturday at Dallas, home games against Toronto, Indiana and New York and a January 3 game at Toronto. A nine-year veteran, Noah is averaging a career-low 4.5 points a game and shooting 40.4 percent from the field this season, where he has had to adjust to a reserve role. Noah had scored a season-best 21 points and added 10 rebounds in 29 minutes last Saturday against New York. The Bulls have lost three games in a row and fallen to 15-11, sixth in the Eastern Conference and third in the Central division. AFP

Platini vows to fight injustice PARIS—Michel Platini told AFP in an interview Tuesday that he is determined to fight for the FIFA presidency and to clear his name after being banned for eight years. Platini and FIFA chief Sepp Blatter were suspended by FIFA’s ethics committee over a 2 million Swiss franc ($2 million/1.8 million euro) payment made to Platini in 2011 for work carried out between 1999 and 2002. Corruption charges against the two men were dropped by the FIFA court, but they were found guilty of “abusive execution” of their powers and a conflict of interests. The Frenchman was informed by FIFA on Tuesday evening that he must take any appeal to them first before being able to go to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. That means, even if he does clear his name, his chances of meeting the January 26 deadline to submit his candidacy for the FIFA presidency are extremely slim. AFP

JJ Barea (left) of the Dallas Mavericks goes to the basket against two Toronto Raptors defenders at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. AFP

Raptors hold off Mavs TORONTO—Toronto guard DeMar DeRozan scored a game-high 28 points and the Raptors held off a late rally to beat visiting Dallas 103-99 Tuesday in an NBA thriller. Raptors guard Kyle Lowry added 17 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists while center Bismack Biyombo scored nine points and grabbed a career-best 20 rebounds and Luis Scola added 15 points and nine rebounds for Toronto. “They all came up big,” DeRozan said. “We needed everybody tonight.” The Raptors never trailed, up by as many as 18 points in

the first quarter and well ahead when the Mavericks brought in a reserve unit with barely five minutes remaining. The Mavericks battled back and trailed by only two points with 11.6 seconds to play on a Jeremy Evans layup, but Evans missed a free throw and Toronto’s Terrence Ross made two free throws, the last of his 16 points, to finish the scoring. “It was a big win,” DeRo-

zan said. “We finished ugly but we got a big win. We knew they were going to make a run but we were able to withstand it.” German star forward Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks (15-13) with 20 points and seven rebounds. He stands 10 points shy of passing Shaquille O’Neal for sixth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. At Miami, Detroit sank 15 three-pointers and erased an early 18-point deficit to edge the Heat 93-92. Reggie Jackson scored 18 points to lead the Pistons while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Stanley Johnson each added 14 points and Steve Blake had 12, while Andre Drummond scored 11 points and grabbed

12 rebounds. Chris Bosh scored 20 points, Dwyane Wade added 19 and Hassan Whiteside finished with 16 points and 16 rebounds to lead the Heat, who fell to 16-11. Wade and Bosh each missed jumpers in the closing seconds as Detroit hung on for the victory, the Pistons’ fifth in six games. - 76ers lose again At Denver, retiring Kobe Bryant matched his season high with 31 points to power the Los Angeles Lakers over the host Nuggets 111-107. Bryant hit two free throws and a jumper in the final minute to secure the victory, with Denver fans chanting his name in the closing seconds. AFP

Last hurrah: Tribute to Christ Tweddell

STREAMS of the bridge contingent SYLVIA LOPEZ headed to the CamALEJANDRO bridge Circle Club Games at 76 Cambridge Circle, the residence of H.E. Ambassador Bill and Chris Tweddell for the final game. The Forbes Park residents headed by Bea Zobel, Harriet Velayo and myself were part of the contingent that made up for the terrific attendance last December 17, 2015: a fitting tribute to Chris Tweddell for having kindly hosted the Thursday Games at their residence. Chris Tweddell was a regular bridge player at my Alejandro Duplicate Bridge Games every Tuesday in Forbes Park. And aside the bridge kinship, I am also happy and proud to state that I am counted as one of their good friends. That explains why I had the honor and the priveledge of giving my Address to highlight their achievements during their four year stay here in the Philippines. The text of my Address is quoted in full: “Four years ago I first met Chris Tweddell at my Alejandro Duplicate Bridge Game. She had given up playing mahjong when she heard where bridge games were being played. From a start as a novice she metamorphosed as a skilled bridge player. Chris partnered with Ching Holley and they topped several games at the Alejandro Duplicate Bridge Game. During the Saturday bridge game she was a part of a team that won an event. The experts said to be a good player the player

must have constant practice. Me thinks Chris played Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday - on an Saturday… Cheers to Chris! Chris referred to Amb. Bill as a bridge a widower. That is an understatement and wholly modest on her part. Ambassador Bill Tweddell had admirably during his four year watch as the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines played a major role in strengthening the bilateral relations of Australia with the Philippines. This is not a motherhood statement in praise of an outgoing ambassador. I have the hard facts. Exhibit A; Australian signs “comprehensive partnership with the Philippines.” President Aquino and Australian Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull had met in a bilateral meeting and signed the agreement on “comprehensive partnership” Pres. Aquino had thanked the Australian government for the “donation of two landing craft, support to AFP modernization, and humanitarian assistance and disaster risk reduction management. And with regard to the global threat on terrorism, Aquino told Turnbull that Manila “is keen on working with other countries to achieve radicalization of the individuals and groups that pose security threats” For his part Turnbull expressed “we are also very appreciative of advise to us… I thought your views on the radicalization would particularly be informative and helpful to us as we consider our responses in Australia.” This morning I read the news item” Aussie plane flies over disputed South China Sea.”

Amb. Bill and Chris come January 6, 2016 will be alis bayan – but I have every assurance that will the presence of their son, Paul Tweddell that there will one of them who will be a balik-bayan. Paul Tweddell who used to live in Vietnam and once in the Philippines decided to stay here and pursue a business promoting the Philippines to visit/engage in business here. It is more fun in the Philippines! Cheers to the Tweddells! Lastly, I propose a hearty toast, in my capacity as former president of the Philippine Tournament Bridge Association to Madame Chris Tweddell. The attendance at the Christmas Pairs was indeed to a tribute to Chris – an unheard of 17 tables – in comparison to the dwindling attendance at the Saturday games. As there was no closing ceremonies last Monday, to rectify that omission, it is my pleasure to present before the members the Plaque of Appreciation to Madame Chris Tweddell.” For her valued contribution to the promotion of the game of bridge in the country” signed the Philippine Tournament Bridge Association. Let us put our hands together and toast and say Mabuhay! This super event was directed by Mr. Phil Manalang, also a former president of the PTBA. He provided the excitement by announcing at intervals who the leaders were. Thanks to Phil we have the early results of the game. PTBA Farewell Game at Cambridge –December 17, 2015

Rank Pair Names (North/South Ranks) 1. Shrikant Khan & Margaret Kwok 2. Harumi Ieda & Chris Tweddell 3. Lars Manneteg & Chuchay Tuason 4. Minal Shah & Mehboobah Khan 5. Sylvia Alejandro & Jopet Maliwat 6. Suena Manalang & Phil Manalang 7. Cora Rodriguez & Mila Wales 8. Bambi Harper & Dolly Montenegro 9. Glory Del Rio & Inday Canoy 10. Bea Zobel & Cristina Zobel 11. Nena Ramirez & Aiko Taylor 12. Harriet Velayo & Pearl Godocu Rank Pair Names (East/West Ranks) 1. Susan Kwee & Barry Randle 2. George Soo & Toti Fernandez 3. Hector Tarrazona & Cynthia De Guzman 4. Hiranthi & Nalin Samarasingha 5. Menchi Cu Unjieng & Viksi Egan 6. Lani Tayas & Isabel Maloles 7. Alice Briones & Mencie De Vera 8. Justo Manlongat & Winston Arpon 9. Titang Montinola & Isabel Wilson 10. Joli Kansil & Pocholo Lozano 11. Linda Wehrman & Homer De Vera 12. Remy Romero Salas & Ann Aspinall 13. Abla Assad & Francoise Butt We do not say goodbye to the Tweddells but we say MABUHAY 1 Comments to: sylvia.alejandro@yahoo

S e c . 9 . Vo t i n g p r i v i l e g e o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s. - T h e c h a i r p e r s o n a n d m e m b e r s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s m ay vo t e i n t h e p o l l i n g p l a c e w h e r e t h ey a r e a s s i g n e d o n e l e c t i o n d ay i f t h ey a r e r e g i s t e r e d vo t e r s o f t h e c i t y, m u n i c i p a l i t y o r d i s t r i c t w h e r e t h ey a r e a s s i g n e d . I n t h e a l t e r n a t i ve, t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s m ay ava i l o f l o c a l a b s e n t e e vo t i n g p u r s u a n t t o C o m e l e c R e s o l u t i o n N o. 10 0 0 3 d a t e d 14 O c t o b e r 2 015 e n t i t l e d ” R u l e s a n d R e g u l a t i o n s O n L o c a l A b s e n t e e Vo t i n g I n C o n n e c t i o n W i t h T h e M ay 9 , 2 016 N a t i o n a l a n d L o c a l E l e c t i o n s ” .

Republic of the Philippines CO M M I SSI ON ON ELECTI O NS lntramuros, M anila RULES ON THE C O N S T I T U T I O N , CO M POSITIO N A ND A PPOINTM ENT OF THE BOA RD OF ELECTIO N INSPECTORS, A ND OTHER M AT TERS REL ATED THERETO, IN CO NNECTIO N WITH THE 09 M AY 2016 N ATIO N A L A ND LOCA L ELECTIO NS (N LE).

BAUTISTA , J. A . D., LIM, C. R . S. PA RRENO, A . A ., GUIA , L . T. F. LIM, A . D. GUANZON, M. R. A. V., A BAS, S. M.,

Chair man, Co mmi ssioner Co mmi ssioner Co mmi ssioner Co mmi ssioner Co mmi ssioner Co mmi ssioner

Promulgated: Dec ember 2 2, 2015

R E S O LUTIO N N O. 10 031 P u r s u a n t t o t h e p o w e r s ve s t e d i n i t by ex i s t i n g l a w s , t h e C o m m i s s i o n o n E l e c t i o n s (C o m m i s s i o n) h e r e by p r o m u l g a t e s t h e f o l l o w i n g r u l e s o n t h e constitution, composition and appointment of the board of election inspectors, a n d o t h e r m a t t e r s r e l a t e d t h e r e t o, i n c o n n e c t i o n w i t h t h e c o n d u c t o f t h e 0 9 M ay 2 016 N L E: S e c t i o n 1. S c o p e. - T h e s e r u l e s s h a l l a p p l y t o t h e c o n s t i t u t i o n , c o m p o s i t i o n and appointment of the board of election inspectors, and other matters related t h e r e t o, f o r p u r p o s e s o f t h e 0 9 M ay 2 016 N L E , exc e p t i n t h e c a s e o f l o c a l a b s e n t e e vo t i n g , d e t a i n e e vo t i n g , i n d i g e n o u s p e o p l e vo t i n g i n M i n d o r o O r i e n t a l a n d M i n d o r o O c c i d e n t a l p u r s u a n t t o M i n u t e R e s o l u t i o n N o. 15 - 0178 d a t e d 0 6 O c t o b e r 2 015 , a n d ove r s e a s vo t i n g , w h i c h a r e c ove r e d by s e p a r a t e r u l e s . S e c . 2 . B o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s. - T h e r e s h a l l b e a b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s f o r eve r y c l u s t e r e d /g r o u p e d p r e c i n c t i d e n t i f i e d i n t h e P r o j e c t o f P r e c i n c t s ( P O P) a p p r ove d by t h e C o m m i s s i o n o n E l e c t i o n s f o r p u r p o s e s o f t h e 0 9 M ay 2 016 N L E . Sec. 3. Constitution, composition and appointment of board of election i n s p e c t o r s. - D u r i n g t h e p e r i o d f r o m 0 4 J a n u a r y 2 016 t o 15 J a n u a r y 2 016. E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r s s h a l l c o n s t i t u t e a b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s f o r eve r y c l u s t e r e d /g r o u p e d p r e c i n c t i n t h e i r c i t i e s / m u n i c i p a l i t i e s / d i s t r i c t s . The composition of the board of election inspectors shall come from the l i s t o f p u b l i c s c h o o l t e a c h e r s s u b m i t t e d by t h e h i g h e s t D e p a r t m e n t o f Ed u c a t i o n o f f i c i a l i n t h e c i t y/m u n i c i p a l i t y / d i s t r i c t .

S e c . 10 . M e e t i n g s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s. - T h e m e e t i n g s o f the board of election inspectors shall be public and held only in the polling place a u t h o r i z e d by t h e C o m m i s s i o n . The board of election inspectors shall act through its chairperson, and, w i t h o u t d e l ay, d e c i d e by m a j o r i t y vo t e, a l l q u e s t i o n s w h i c h m ay a r i s e i n t h e per formance of its duties. T h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s s h a l l h ave f u l l a u t h o r i t y t o m a i n t a i n o r d e r w i t h i n t h e p o l l i n g p l a c e a n d i t s p r e m i s e s , t o ke e p a c c e s s t h e r e t o o p e n a n d unobstructed, and to enforce obedience to its law ful orders. I f a p e r s o n r e f u s e s t o o b ey l a w f u l o r d e r s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s , o r a c t s i n a d i s o r d e r l y m a n n e r i n i t s p r e s e n c e o r w i t h i n i t s h e a r i n g a n d t h e r e by i n t e r r u p t o r d i s t u r b i t s p r o c e e d i n g s , t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s m ay i s s u e a n o r d e r i n w r i t i n g d i r e c t i n g a ny p e a c e o f f i c e r t o t a ke s u c h p e r s o n i n t o c u s t o d y u n t i l t h e a d j o u r n m e n t o f t h e m e e t i n g , b u t s u c h o r d e r s h a l l n o t b e exe c u t e d a s t o p r eve n t a ny p e r s o n s o t a ke n i n t o c u s t o d y f r o m exe r c i s i n g t h e r i g h t t o vo t e. S u c h o r d e r s h a l l b e exe c u t e d by a ny p e a c e o f f i c e r t o w h o m i t m ay b e d e l i ve r e d , b u t i f n o n e p r e s e n t , by a ny o t h e r p e r s o n d e p u t i z e d i n w r i t i n g by t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n inspectors. S e c . 11. P r o h i b i t i o n o f p o l i t i c a l a c t i v i t y. - N o m e m b e r o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s s h a l l e n g a g e i n a ny p a r t i s a n p o l i t i c a l a c t i v i t y o r t a ke p a r t i n t h e e l e c t i o n exc e p t t o d i s c h a r g e h i s d u t i e s a s s u c h a n d t o vo t e. S e c . 12 . Te m p o r a r y v a c a n c i e s i n t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s. I f, a t t h e t i m e o f t h e m e e t i n g o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s , a ny m e m b e r i s a b s e n t , o r a p o s i t i o n i n t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s i s s t i l l va c a n t , t h e members present shall call upon the substitute of the absent members to p e r f o r m t h e d u t i e s o f t h e l a t t e r, a n d i n c a s e s u c h s u b s t i t u t e c a n n o t b e f o u n d , t h e m e m b e r s p r e s e n t s h a l l a p p o i n t a ny q u a l i f i e d n o n p a r t i s a n r e g i s t e r e d vo t e r o f t h e p o l l i n g p l a c e t o t e m p o r a r i l y f i l l s a i d va c a n c y u n t i l t h e a b s e n t m e m b e r a p p e a r s o r t h e va c a n c y i s f i l l e d . I n c a s e t h e r e a r e t w o o r m o r e m e m b e r s p r e s e n t , t h ey s h a l l a c t j o i n t l y. S e c . 13 . A r r e s t o f a b s e n t m e m b e r s. - T h e m e m b e r o r m e m b e r s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s p r e s e n t m ay o r d e r t h e a r r e s t o f a ny m e m b e r o r s u b s t i t u t e t h e r e o f, w h o i n t h e m e m b e r o r m e m b e r s j u d g m e n t , i s a b s e n t w i t h i n t e n t i o n o f obstructing the per formance of duties of the board of election inspectors . S e c . 14 . R e l i e f a n d s u b s t i t u t i o n o f t h e m e m b e r s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s. - T h e m e m b e r s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s s h a l l n o t b e r e l i eve d u n l e s s d i s q u a l i f i e d a s p r ov i d e d h e r e i n . Within three (3) days from the issuanc e of the appointments of the member s of the board of elec tion inspector s, the Election O f f ic er shall prepare and c ause the posting of the list of member s of the board of election inspector s in the bulletin boards of the O f f ic e of the Election O f f ic er and of the barangay halls. The Election O f f ic er shall fur nish c opies of the list to interested par ties upon request.

The board of election inspectors shall be composed of a chairperson, a poll c l e r k a n d a t h i r d m e m b e r, a l l o f w h o m s h a l l b e p u b l i c s c h o o l t e a c h e r s , g i v i n g p r e f e r e n c e t o t h o s e w i t h p e r m a n e n t a p p o i n t m e n t s , t h o s e w h o s e r ve d i n t h e 13 M ay 2 013 N L E , a n d t h o s e w i t h s p e c i a l i z e d t r a i n i n g i n d e a l i n g w i t h p e r s o n s w i t h disabilities.

W i t h i n t h r e e (3) d ay s f r o m t h e p o s t i n g o f t h e l i s t o f m e m b e r s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s , a ny i n t e r e s t e d p a r t y m ay f i l e a n o p p o s i t i o n t o t h e a p p o i n t m e n t o f a ny m e m b e r o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s o n t h e g r o u n d that the member does not meet the qualif ications for appointnent as member of t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s o r i s d i s q u a l i f i e d d u e t o p r o h i b i t e d r e l a t i o n s h i p. W i t h i n f o r t y - e i g h t (4 8) h o u r s f r o m r e c e i p t o f t h e o p p o s i t i o n , t h e E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r shall determine whether the member is disqualif ied or not. If disqualif ied, the Election Of f icer shall appoint a substitute who meets the qualif ications and none of the disqualifications.

I n c a s e t h e r e a r e n o t e n o u g h p u b l i c s c h o o l t e a c h e r s , t e a c h e r s i n p r i va t e s c h o o l s , e m p l oye e s i n t h e c i v i l s e r v i c e, o r c i t i z e n s o f k n o w n p r o b i t y a n d c o m p e t e n c e, w h o p o s s e s s e d t h e q u a l i f i c a t i o n s a n d n o n e o f t h e d i s q u a l i f i c a t i o n s f o r a p p o i n t m e n t a s m e m b e r o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s , m ay b e a p p o i n t e d .

S e c . 15 . S u p p o r t s t a f f o f t i r e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s. - T h e E l e c t i o n Of f icers shall, during the period for the constitution and appointment of the board of election inspectors, appoint suppor t staf f to assist the board of election inspectors in the per formance of its duties.

The Election Of f icers shall appoint the chairpersons and the t wo members of the board of election inspectors, and issue the corresponding appointment p a p e r s u s i n g C E F N o. A 5 a n d A 5), s a m p l e f o r m a t a t t a c h e d , i n t h r e e (3) c o p i e s , d i s t r i b u t e d a s f o l l o w s:

T h e s u p p o r t s t a f f n e e d n o t b e a r e g i s t e r e d vo t e r o f t h e c i t y o r m u n i c i p a l i t y or district but must possess all the other qualifications and none of the disqualif ications for appointment to the board of election inspectors.

a . F i r s t c o py, t o t h e E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r f o r h i s f i l e; b. S e c o n d c o py, t o t h e E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r t o b e a t t a c h e d t o t h e p ay r o l l f o r t h e p ay m e n t o f p e r d i e m s / h o n o r a r i a o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s; a n d c . T h i r d c o py, t o t h e a p p o i n t e e. Sec. 4. Oath of the chairperson and members of the board of election i n s p e c t o r s. - B e f o r e a s s u m i n g o f f i c e, t h e c h a i r p e r s o n o r m e m b e r o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s , s h a l l t a ke a n d s i g n a n o a t h u s i n g C E F N o. A 5 a n d A 5 - A , s a m p l e f o r m a t t a c h e d , b e f o r e a n o f f i c e r a u t h o r i z e d t o a d m i n i s t e r o a t h o r, i n h i s a b s e n c e, b e f o r e a ny o t h e r m e m b e r o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s p r e s e n t , o r i n c a s e n o o n e i s p r e s e n t , b e f o r e a ny vo t e r. Sec. 5. Qualifications of chairperson and members of the board of e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s. - N o p e r s o n s h a l l b e a p p o i n t e d a s c h a i r p e r s o n , m e m b e r or substitute member of the board of election inspectors unless such person i s o f g o o d m o r a l c h a r a c t e r a n d i r r e p r o a c h a b l e r e p u t a t i o n , a r e g i s t e r e d vo t e r o f t h e c i t y o r m u n i c i p a l i t y, h a s n eve r b e e n c o nv i c t e d o f a ny e l e c t i o n o f f e n s e o r o f a ny o t h e r c r i m e p u n i s h a b l e by m o r e t h a n s i x m o n t h s o f i m p r i s o n m e n t , h a s no pending election of fense case against him, and is able to speak and write English or the local dialect. S e c . 6 . D i s q u a l i f i c a t i o n. - N o p e r s o n s h a l l s e r ve a s c h a i r p e r s o n o r m e m b e r of the board of election inspectors if related within the four th civil degree of c o n s a n g u i n i t y o r a f f i n i t y t o a ny m e m b e r o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s o r t o a ny c a n d i d a t e t o b e vo t e d f o r i n t h e p o l l i n g p l a c e o r t h e c a n d i d a t e’s s p o u s e. S e c . 7. N o t i c e o f d i s q u a l i f i c a t i o n. - T h e c h a i r p e r s o n o r a ny m e m b e r o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s w h o i s d i s q u a l i f i e d t o s e r ve i n t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s f o r a ny r e a s o n s h a l l i m m e d i a t e l y n o t i f y i n w r i t i n g t h e E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r c o n c e r n e d . T h e E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r, i n t u r n , s h a l l i m m e d i a t e l y a p p o i n t a s u b s t i t u t e. S e c . 8 . Po w e r s a n d f u n c t i o n s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s . - I n a d d i t i o n t o t h e p o w e r s a n d f u n c t i o n s p r e s c r i b e d by l a w o r by t !:e r u l e s a n d r e g u l a t i o n s i s s u e d by t h e C o m m i s s i o n o n E l e c t i o n s , t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s s h a l l: a . C o n d u c t t h e vo t i n g a n d c o u n t i n g o f vo t e s i n t h e i r r e s p e c t i ve p o l l i n g p l a c e s , i n c l u d i n g t h e f i n a l t e s t i n g a n d s e a l i n g o f t h e Vo t e C o u n t i n g M a c h i n e s ( VC M s); a n d b. A c t a s d e p u t i e s o f t h e C o m m i s s i o n i n t h e s u p e r v i s i o n a n d c o n t r o l o f t h e e l e c t i o n i n t h e p o l l i n g p l a c e s w h e r e i n t h ey a r e a s s i g n e d , t o a s s u r e t h e h o l d i n g o f t h e s a m e, i n a f r e e, o r d e r l y a n d h o n e s t m a n n e r.

T h e n u m b e r o f s u p p o r t s t a f f t h a t m ay b e a p p o i n t e d p e r b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s a r e a s f o l l o w s: Number of Established Precincts In the Clustered Group Precincts

Number of Allowable Suppor t Staf f

1 to 3

5 or more

T h e s u p p o r t s t a f f c a n n o t p a r t i c i p a t e i n t h e d e l i b e r a t i o n o f t h e b o a r d o r vo l e o n a ny i s s u e o r q u e s t i o n t h a t m ay a r i s e d u r i n g t h e p r o c e e d i n g s . I n c a s e o f a b s e n c e o f a ny o f t h e s u p p o r t s t a f f o n t h e d ay o f t h e e l e c t i o n , t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s , by m a j o r i t y vo t e, m ay d e s i g n a t e a s u b s t i t u t e w h o n e e d n o t b e a r e g i s t e r e d vo t e r o f t h e c i t y o r m u n i c i p a l i t y b u t p o s s e s s e s a l l the other qualif ications and none of the disqualif ications for appointment as s u p p o r t s t a f f. S e c . 16 . P o l l i n g / v o t i n g c e n t e r s u p e r v i s o r s a n d s u p p o r t s t a f f ; c o m p o s i t i o n a n d f u n c t i o n s. - E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r s s h a l l , w i t h i n t h e p e r i o d f o r t h e constitution and appointment of the board of election inspectors, constitute at l e a s t o n e (1) D e p Ed P o l l i n g / Vo t i n g C e n t e r S u p e r v i s o r a n d o n e (1) Po l l i n g / Vo t i n g C e n t e r s u p p o r t s t a f f f o r eve r y p o l l i n g c e n t e r d e s i g n a t e d by t h e C o m m i s s i o n o n E l e c t i o n s f o r p u r p o s e s o f t h e 0 9 M ay 2 016 N L E . I n c a s e o f p o l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r s w i t h m o r e t h a n t e n (10) c l u s t e r e d / g r o u p e d p r e c i n c t s , E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r s m ay c o n s t i t u t e a n a d d i t i o n a l o n e (1) D e p Ed S u p e r v i s o r a n d o n e (1) s u p p o r t s t a f f i n a c c o r d a n c e w i t h t h e f o l l o w i n g t a b l e: Number of Clustered/ Grouped Precincts

Number of Additional D e p Ed S u p e r v i s o r

Number of Additional Suppor t Staf f

11- 2 0

21- 3 0

31- 4 0 a n d f o r t h u s i n g t h e same ratio

T h e p o l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r s u p e r v i s o r a n d s u p p o r t s t a f f n e e d n o t b e r e g i s t e r e d vo t e r s o f t h e c i t y o r m u n i c i p a l i t y o r d i s t r i c t w h e r e t h ey a r e a s s i g n e d

but must possess all the other qualifications and none of the disqualifications for appointment to the board of election inspectors. T h e p o l l i n g / vo t i n g e n t e r s u p e r v i s o r, i n c o o r d i n a t i o n w i t h t h e E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r, s h a l l: a . P l a n , o r g a n i z e a n d s u p e r v i s e t h e s e t t i n g u p o f a vo t e r s’ a s s i s t a n c e c e n t e r a t t h e p o l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r t o a s s i s t vo t e r s i n l o c a t i n g t h e i r p o l l i n g p l a c e s o r p r e c i n c t a s s i g n m e n t s; b. P l a n , o r g a n i z e a n d s u p e r v i s e t h e c r o w d m a n a g e m e n t a t t h e e n t r a n c e a r e a s o f t h e p o l l i n g p l a c e s; c. Maintain a list of technical personnel as well as PNP and AFP personnel a s s i g n e d i n t h e vo t i n g c e n t e r s f o r e f f i c i e n t c o o r d i n a t i o n; a n d d . S e r ve a s t h e c o n t a c t a n d p o i n t p e r s o n o f t h e E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r i n t h e p o l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r. S e c . 17. P e r d i e m s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s a n d t h e i r s u p p o r t s t a f f, p o l l i n g / v o t i n g c e n t e r s u p e r v i s o r s a n d t h e i r s u p p o r t s t a f f. - T h e c h a i r p e r s o n a n d m e m b e r s o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s s h a l l r e c e i ve a p e r d i e m a t t h e r a t e o f O n e T h o u s a n d Pe s o s ( P h P1, 0 0 0 . 0 0) a d ay f o r t h r e e d ay s o r a t o t a l p e r d i e m o f T h r e e T h o u s a n d Pe s o s ( P h P 3 , 0 0 0 . 0 0) . A l s o, e a c h s h a l l r e c e i ve a n a d d i t i o n a l p e r d i e m o f F i ve H u n d r e d Pe s o s ( P h P 5 0 0 . 0 0) f o r t h e ve r i f i c a t i o n a n d s e a l i n g o f t h e b o o k o f vo t e r s , a n d a n o t h e r F i ve H u n d r e d Pe s o s ( P h P 5 0 0 . 0 0) p e r d i e m f o r t h e f i n a l t e s t i n g a n d s e a l i n g o f t h e VC M s . A o n e - t i m e t r a n s p o r t a t i o n a l l o w a n c e o f F i ve H u n d r e d Pe s o s ( P h P 5 0 0 . 0 0) s h a l l b e p r ov i d e d to the chairperson and members of the board of election inspectors. T h e s u p p o r t s t a f f o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s s h a l l r e c e i ve a p e r d i e m o f F i ve H u n d r e d Pe s o s ( P h P 5 0 0 . 0 0) p e r d ay f o r t h r e e (3) d ay s o r a t o t a l o f O n e T h o u s a n d F i e H u n d r e d Pe s o s ( P h P l , 5 0 0 . 0 0) e a c h . Po l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r s u p e r v i s o r s s h a l l r e c e i ve a p e r d i e m o f O n e T h o u s a n d Pe s o s ( P h P1, 0 0 0 . 0 0) a d ay f o r t h r e e d ay s o r a t o t a l p e r d i e m o f T h r e e T h o u s a n d Pe s o s ( P h P 3 , 0 0 0 . 0 0) . Po l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r s u p p o r t s t a f f s h a l l r e c e i ve a p e r d i e m o f F i ve H u n d r e d Pe s o s ( P h P 5 0 0 . 0 0) p e r d ay f o r t h r e e (3) d ay s o r a t o t a l o f O n e T h o u s a n d F i ve H u n d r e d Pe s o s ( P h P l , 5 0 0 . 0 0) e a c h . I n a d d i t i o n , t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s a n d t h e i r s u p p o r t s t a f f, t h e p o l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r s u p e r v i s o r s , a n d t h e i r s u p p o r t s t a f f s h a l l b e g i ve n f i ve (5) d ay s o f l e ave c r e d i t s o r s e r v i c e c r e d i t s , a s t h e c a s e m ay b e, f o r s e r v i c e s rendered in connection with the elections. S e c . 18 . I n s u r a n c e o f p e r s o n n e l o f t h e C o m m i s s i o n o n E l e c t i o n s a n d o t h e r p e r s o n n e l o f t h e g ove r n m e n t , i n c l u d i n g t h e P h i l i p p i n e N a t i o n a l P o l i c e , t h e A r m e d Forces of the Philippines, in the per formance of election duties. - The amount of T h i r t y M i l l i o n Pe s o s ( P h P 3 0 , 0 0 0 , 0 0 0 . 0 0) i s h e r e by s e t a s i d e a s c o m p e n s a t i o n f o r d e a t h , i n j u r y o r s i c k n e s s s u s t a i n e d i n t h e p e r f o r m a n c e o f e l e c t i o n d u t y, by p e r s o n n e l o f t h e C o m m i s s i o n a n d o t h e r g ove r n m e n t a g e n c i e s d e p u t i z e d by t h e Commission. In case of death in connection with the per formance of election d u t y, t h e h e i r s o f t h e d e c e a s e d o f f i c i a l o r e m p l oye e s h a l l r e c e i ve t h e a m o u n t o f Tw o H u n d r e d T h o u s a n d Pe s o s ( P h P 2 0 0 , 0 0 0 . 0 0) . Fo r t h i s p u r p o s e, t h e F i n a n c e S e r v i c e s D e p a r t m e n t o f t h e C o m m i s s i o n s h a l l , w i t h i n s eve n ( 7 ) d ay s f r o m t h e p r o m u l g a t i o n o f t h i s R e s o l u t i o n , f o r m u l a t e t h e g u i d e l i n e s f o r t h e ava i l m e n t o f c o m p e n s a t i o n f o r d e a t h , i n j u r y o r s i c k n e s s i n t h e p e r f o r m a n c e o f e l e c t i o n d u t y, a n d s u b m i t s a i d g u i d e l i n e s f o r t h e a p p r ova l by the Commission on Elections. S e c . 19 . R e p o r t o r i a l r e q u i r e m e n t s . - T h e E l e c t i o n O f f i c e r s h a l l , w i t h i n f i ve (5) d ay s f r o m t h e c o n s t i t u t i o n , a p p o i n t m e n t a n d d e s i g n a t i o n o f t h e: (a) b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s a n d t h e i r s u p p o r t s t a f f ; a n d ( b) p o l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r s s u p e r v i s o r s a n d t h e i r s u p p o r t s t a f f, s u b m i t t o t h e F i n a n c e S e r v i c e D e p a r t m e n t o f t h e C o m m i s s i o n , t h e f o l l o w i n g: a . List c ont aining the names of the appointed c hair per sons and member s of the board of election inspec tor s, their designations in the board, an indic ation whether they are public sc hool teac her s or pr ivate sc hool teac her s or c ivil ser vic e employees or pr ivate c itizens, ar ranged by prec inc t; b. L i s t c o n t a i n i n g t h e n a m e s o f t h e a p p o i n t e d s u p p o r t s t a f f o f t h e b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s , a n i n d i c a t i o n w h e t h e r t h ey a r e p u b l i c s c h o o l t e a c h e r s o r p r i va t e s c h o o l t e a c h e r s o r c i v i l s e r v i c e e m p l oye e s o r p r i va t e c i t i z e n s , a r r a n g e d by p r e c i n c t ; a n d c. List containing super visors and school teachers p r i va t e c i t i z e n s ,

t h e n a m e s o f t h e a p p o i n t e d p o l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r t h e i r s u p p o r t s t a f f, a n i n d i c a t i o n w h e t h e r t h ey a r e p u b l i c o r p r i va t e s c h o o l t e a c h e r s o r c i v i l s e r v i c e e m p l oye e s o r a r r a n g e d by p o l l i n g / vo t i n g c e n t e r ;

S e c . 2 0 . S p e c i a l p r o c e d u r e s. - T h e C o m m i s s i o n m ay, i n exc e p t i o n a l c a s e s , adopt special guidelines in the constitution, appointment and designation of the b o a r d o f e l e c t i o n i n s p e c t o r s a n d o t h e r m a t t e r s r e l a t e d t h e r e t o, t o e n s u r e f r e e, h o n e s t , o r d e r l y, p e a c e f u l a n d c r e d i b l e e l e c t i o n s . Sec. 21. Ef fectivit y, publication and dissemination. -This Resolution shall t ake ef fec t on the seventh (7 t h) day following its public ation in t wo (2) daily newspaper s of general c irculation in the Philippines. The Educ ation and Infor mation Depar tment of the C ommission on Elec tions shall c ause the public ation of this Resolution in t wo (2) daily newspaper s of general c irculation in the Philippines, and fur nish c opies thereof to the Depar tment of Educ ation, the Regional Election Director s, the Provinc ial Elec tion Super visor s and Election O f f ic er s.

Republic of the Philippines CO M M I SSI O N O N ELECTI O NS lntramuros, M anila ENBA NC IN THE MATTER OF AMENDING SECTION 3 of RESOLUTION NO. 9987, “In the Matter of the Guidelines in the Conduct of the Source Code Review of the Automated Election System for the 09 May 2016 National and Local Elections.”

BAUTISTA , J. A . D., Chair man, LI M , C. R . S. Co mmi ssioner PA RR ENO, A . A ., Co mmi ssioner GUI A , L . T. F. Co mmi ssioner LI M , A . D. Co mmi ssioner GUA NZON, M . R . A . V., Co mmi ssioner A BAS, S. M ., Co mmi ssioner

Promulgated: Dec ember 2 2, 2015

R E SO LUTIO N N O. 10 032 W H E R E A S,, R e s o l u t i o n N o. 9 9 87 w a s p r o m u l g a t e d o n 14 S e p t e m b e r 2 015 s e t t i n g t h e g u i d e l i n e s f o r t h e c o n d u c t o f t h e L o c a l S o u r c e C o d e R ev i e w f o r t h e 0 9 M ay 2 016 N a t i o n a l a n d L o c a l E l e c t i o n s; W H E R E A S, t h e c o n d u c t o f a s u f f i c i e n t s o u r c e c o d e r ev i e w by a ny i n t e r e s t e d p a r t y a s p r ov i d e d u n d e r S e c t i o n 12 o f R e p u b l i c A c t N o. 9 3 6 9 w i l l e n h a n c e p u b l i c a c c e p t a n c e o f a n d b u i l d p u b l i c c o n f i d e n c e i n t h e A u t o m a t e d E l e c t i o n s S y s t e m; W H E R E A S, R e s o l u t i o n N o. 9 9 87 s e t s t h e p e r i o d f o r t h e s t a r t o f t h e c o d e r ev i e w o f t h e c u s t o m i z e d a n d c o n f i g u r e d c o d e s o n l y u p o n t h e c e r t i f i c a t i o n o f t h e Te c h n i c a l Eva l u a t i o n C o m m i t t e e ( T EC) o f t h e A u t o m a t e d E l e c t i o n s S y s t e m; W H E R E A S, t h e l a t e s t ve r s i o n s o f t h e c u s t o m i z e d a n d c o n f i g u r e d c o d e s w i l l b e c o m e ava i l a b l e eve n b e f o r e t h e T EC C e r t i f i c a t i o n; W H E R E A S, R e s o l u t i o n N o. 9 9 87 p r ov i d e s t h a t “ t h e C o m m i s s i o n m ay m o d i f y t h e a b ove g u i d e l i n e s a s i t m ay d e e m f i t a n d n e c e s s a r y.” W H E R E A S, i n o r d e r t o e n h a n c e t h e a b ove - m e n t i o n e d o b j e c t i ve s , t h e r e i s a n e e d t o a m e n d R e s o l u t i o n N o. 9 9 87 t o a f f o r d t h e p a r t i e s t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o r ev i e w t h e c u s t o m i z e d a n d c o n f i g u r e d c o d e s a s s o o n a s t h e s e c o d e s b e c o m e ava i l a b l e; N O W, T H E R E FO R E , p u r s u a n t t o t h e p o w e r s ve s t e d i n i t by t h e C o n s t i t u t i o n , t h e O m n i b u s E l e c t i o n C o d e R e p u b l i c A c t N o. 9 3 6 9 , a n d o t h e r e l e c t i o n l a w s , t h e C o m m i s s i o n h a s R E S O LV E D, a s i t h e r e by R E S O LV E S, t o a p p r ove, a d o p t , a n d a m e n d t h e ex i s t i n g g u i d e l i n e s i n t h e c o n d u c t o f t h e c o d e r ev i e w by i n t e r e s t e d p a r t i e s o r g r o u p s o f t h e A u t o m a t e d E l e c t i o n s S y s t e m f o r t h e 0 9 M ay 2 016 N a t i o n a l a n d L o c a l E l e c t i o n s: S E C T I O N 1. S e c t i o n 3 i s h e r e by a m e n d e d t o r e a d a s f o l l o w s: S E C . 3. R ev i e w P h a s e s. T h e s o u r c e c o d e r ev i e w s h a l l i nvo l ve t w o p h a s e s . T h e f i r s t p h a s e c ove r s t h e r ev i e w o f t h e b a s e l i n e s o u r c e c o d e s . T h e s e c o n d p h a s e c ove r s t h e r ev i e w o f t h e s o u r c e c o d e s a f t e r t h e sy s t e m s h ave b e e n customized and conf igured according to the preference and needs of the Commission. The second phase of r ev i e w s h a l l b e u n d e r t a ke n u p o n t h e ava i l a b i l i t y o f t h e customized and conf igured codes. The star t and duration o f t h e l o c a l s o u r c e c o d e r ev i e w f o r e a c h o f t h e p h a s e s s h a l l b e s e t by t h e C o m m i s s i o n . H o w eve r, t h e A d - h o c C o m m i t t e e o n t h e L o c a l S o u r c e C o d e R ev i e w m ay a d j u s t t h e r ev i e w s c h e d u l e s a s i t m ay d e e m n e c e s s a r y s u b j e c t to reasonable notice to the par ties. L e t t h e Ed u c a t i o n a n d I n f o r m a t i o n D e p a r t m e n t c a u s e t h e i m m e d i a t e p u b l i c a t i o n o f t h i s R e s o l u t i o n i n t w o (2) d a i l y n e w s p a p e r s o f g e n e r a l c i r c u l a t i o n in the Philippines. S O O R D E R E D. J . A N D R E S D. B AU S T I S TA Chairman

S O O R D E R E D.

J. A N D R E S D. B AU S T I S TA Chairman

CHRISTIAN ROBERT S. LIM Commissioner

A L A . PA R R E Ñ O Commissioner

LU I E T I T O F. G U I A Commissioner

A R T H U R D. L I M Commissioner

M A . R O W E N A A M E L I A V. G UA N Z O N Commissioner

SHERIFF M. ABAS Commissioner

CHRISTIAN ROBERT S. LIM Commissioner

L U I E T I T O F. G U I A Commissioner

M A . R O W E N A A M E L I A V. G UA N Z O N Commissioner

A L A . PA R R E Ñ O Commissioner

A R T H U R D. L I M Commissioner

S H E R I FF M . A B A S Commissioner

C o m e l e c R e s o l u t i o n N o. 10 0 3 2 I n t h e m a t t e r o f a m e n d i n g S e c t i o n 3 0 f R e s o l u t i o n N o. 9 9 87. “ In the matter of the Guidelines in the Conduct of t he Source Code R ev i e w o f t h e A u t o m a t e d E l e c t i o n S y s t e m f o r t h e M ay 9 , 2 016 N a t i o n a l and Local Elections” ( T S - D E C . 2 4 , 2 015 )

A16

T H U R S DAY : D E C E M B E R 24 , 2 0 1 5 RIERA U. MALL ARI EDITOR

REUEL VIDAL A S S I S TA N T E D I T O R

sports@thestandard.com.ph

SPORTS Donaire defends title in the PH

WBO super bantamweight champion Nonito Donaire’s wish of defending his title on local soil comes true at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, either on April 16 or 23.

‘Chinese MMA fighter died of heart attack’ PHILIPPINE authorities have said a heart attack caused the death of Chinese mixed martial arts fighter Yang Jian Bing, who collapsed a day before a Manila bout, fight organisers said Wednesday. “The official autopsy report administered by the Republic of The Philippines... has determined the cause of death for mixed martial arts athlete and One Championship flyweight Yang Jian Bing to be from an acute myocardial infarction,” One Championship said in a statement on the organization’s website. One Championship earlier reported the 21-year-old had collapsed and was taken to a Manila hospital on December 10 as he suffered severe dehydration from attempting to make the weight limit for his December 11 fight. A Filipino medical legal officer performed the autopsy on December 12 to determine the cause and manner of death, which was found to be acute myocardial infarction, the organization said, using the medical term for heart attack. A private vigil was held in Manila for Yang’s family and friends and his body has been repatriated to China, it added. “Yang Jian Bing’s passing has been and extremely sad and painful time for me and the entire MMA community. My thoughts are with Yang’s family, friends and fans around the world,” One Championship chief executive Victor Cui said.

By Ronnie Nathanielsz

NEWLY CROWNED World Boxing Organization super bantamweight champion Nonito “The Filipino” Flash Donaire will make the first defense of his World Boxing Organization super bantamweight title at the Smart Araneta Coliseum either on April 16 or 23. Donaire earlier indicated he was hoping his next title defense will be in Manila so he can repay the fans, who have supported him especially after his gallant performance against Cesar Juarez of Mexico to win the WBO super bantamweight title for the second time around. The Standard/boxingmirror. com learned that ABS-CBN had come to terms with Top Rank promoter Bob Arum, who recently signed a three-fight deal with Donaire for 2016, Asia’s leading promotional outfit ALA Promotions and Donaire himself.

Raptors hold off Mavericks TURN TO A12

Arum previously told The Standard that Donaire would defend his title against Evgeny Gradovich, the former featherweight champion nicknamed the “Russian-Mexican” sometime in late April, after the planned Manny Pacquiao fight on April 9, although the Filipino ring icon has still to pick an opponent. Donaire, who arrived last week from Puerto Rico via Los Angeles with wife Rachel and their two sons, said they plan to stay in the country until February, but if the title defense in Manila pushes through, he will stay and train in the country until then.

Donaire told this writer at a luncheon hosted by Gabby Lopez, the top honcho of ABSCBN, that Gradovich has been calling him out. And although they are friends and he was a sparring partner when he prepared for the Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. title fight, Donaire said “it’s all business and nothing personal.” “Gradovich is like Cesar Juarez. He keeps coming forward and throws a lot of punches even when retreating,” said Donaire, who conceded that Gradovich doesn’t have too much power. Donaire told The Standard/ boxingmirro.com that he just has to study tapes of his opponent. He also said he will fight anybody they put in front of him. “I’m ready to train, ready to go.” The WBO super bantamweight champion a sec 5 ond time around praised his wife Rachel for his change in attitude and habits and his father/ trainer Dodong Donaire for “doing an amazing job,” both

Platini vows to fight injustice TURN TO A13

during training and during the fight itself but admitted he couldn’t implement all his instructions in-between rounds because of “the freak accident” when he was tripped by Puerto Rican referee, Pena. Donaire was happy to have redeemed his reputation with the brutal “Fight of the Year’ candidate and welcomed the tremendous response he has received for his remarkable performance against a fighter of the caliber of Juarez. Gradovich, a fleet-footed southpaw with quick hands and a fighter, who throws a lot of punches even when back-pedaling, won the featherweight title by a ninth-round TKO in a rematch with Australia’s Billy Dib on Nov. 24, 2013 after winning the title via a 12-round split decision on March 1, 2013. Despite putting on a game defense of his title on May 30 this year, Gradovich lost by an eighthround technical decision to Britain’s Lee Selby last Oct. 24.

THURSDAY: DECEMBER 24, 2015

RAY S. EÑANO EDITOR

RODERICK T. DELA CRUZ ASSISTANT EDITOR

business@thestandardtoday.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

BUSINESS

Customs collections down 6.9% By Gabrielle H. Binaday

LOW oil prices and limited port activities during Manila’s hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation pulled down Customs collections by 6.9 percent in November from a year ago. The Bureau of Customs said collections in November fell to P29.1 billion from P31.2 billion in the same period last year. It also fell 27.4 percent short of the P40-billion target for the month. It was the eighth month this year that the agency missed its target, with only the months of March and June showing on-target collections.

The agency said the additional holidays declared in November to give way to the smooth hosting of Apec Summit in Manila had affected port operations and customs revenues. “The bureau also notes that despite expediting customs services several weeks before the Apec meetings, limited port activity had severely affected revenues,” the agency said. It said the truck ban, road closures and traffic rerouting schemes within the ports’ perimeters further pulled down the daily average collection from P2 billion to as low as P50 million. “It may also be highlighted that special nonworking holidays imposed in Metro Manila on Nov. 18 and 19 resulted in closed banks, further limiting business transactions at the ports,” Customs said. Collection was also pulled down by the 7.2-percent decrease in value of merchandise imports in November, despite the increase in the total volume of shipments.

Non-oil imports grew 19.4 percent in terms of volume, but fell 0.8 percent in terms of value. Oil imports also dropped 10.2 percent in terms of volume and 47.2 percent in terms of value. Total oil collection in November decreased by 37.9 percent to P4.2 billion from P6.8 billion in the same month last year. Customs said total collection in the first 11 months also went down by 0.4 percent to P329.8 billion from a year earlier. The 11-month figure was also P67.37 billion or 16.96 percent short of the P397.173-billion target for the period. The Bureau of Customs is the second largest revenue-collecting agency of the government, next to the Bureau of Internal Revenue. Government revenues in October slightly increased 7 percent year-on-year to P163 billion but fell 13 percent short of the P187.61 programmed collection for the month.

PSe comPoSite index Closing December 23, 2015

8000 7700 7400 7100 6800 6500

7,002.42 36.24

PeSo-dollar rate

Closing DECEMBER 23, 2015 43.50 44.60 45.40

P47.225

46.20

47.00

HIGH P47.315 LOW P47.200 AVERAGE P47.275 VOLUME 427.000M

P487.00-P682.00 LPG/11-kg tank P35.15-P42.40 Unleaded Gasoline

oPriceS il P today

P25.03-P28.48 Diesel P34.55-P39.15 Kerosene Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Wednesday, December 23, 2015

F oreign e xchange r ate

Bullish in London. Shoppers are reﬂected in a shop window as they walk along Oxford Street, one of the main shopping streets in central

London, on December 22, 2015. Britain’s retail sales rebounded sharply in November, helped by buying on ‘Black Friday’ when items are heavily discounted in the run-up to Christmas, ofﬁcial data showed last week. AFP

Currency

Unit

US Dollar

Peso

United States

Dollar

1.000000

47.2980

Japan

Yen

0.008260

0.3907

Pound

1.482500

70.1193

Hong Kong

Dollar

0.128997

6.1013

Switzerland

Franc

1.012658

47.8967

Canada

Dollar

0.718081

33.9638

Singapore

Dollar

0.712099

33.6809

Australia

Dollar

0.723694

34.2293

Bahrain

Dinar

2.656395

125.6422

Saudi Arabia

Rial

0.266581

12.6087

Brunei

Dollar

0.709572

33.5613

Indonesia

Rupiah

0.000073

0.0035

Thailand

Baht

0.027722

1.3112

UAE

Dirham

0.272301

12.8793

Euro

1.095300

51.8055

Korea

Won

0.000855

0.0404

China

Yuan

0.154350

7.3004

India

Rupee

0.015110

0.7147

Malaysia

Ringgit

0.233100

11.0252

New Zealand

Dollar

0.681106

32.2150

Taiwan

Dollar

0.030492

1.4422 Source: PDS Bridge

World Bank approves $500-m loan to address PH calamities THE World Bank on Wednesday approved a new contingent line of credit support worth $500 million to help the Philippines manage risks posed by natural disasters. The World Bank said its board of executive directors approved the Second Disaster Risk Management Development Policy Loan with a catastrophe-deferred drawdown option to provide $500 million to strengthen investment planning and regulations to

reduce disaster risks and help manage the financial impacts when they strike. World Bank country director for the Philippines Motoo Konishi said the Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance Strategy would strengthen the country’s capacity to manage disaster risks. “If not managed well, disasters can roll back years of development gains and plunge millions of

people into poverty,” said Konishi. The Philippines can access the new credit line following “a state of calamity” declared by the president. “The Philippines is among the most vulnerable countries in the world. Together, the 20 most vulnerable countries face escalating losses of $44.9 billion due to climate-related natural disasters alone. Inaction is set to cost us even more. With the

number set to multiply almost ten-fold by 2030, amounting to $418 billion, we turn to innovative financing mechanisms to boost our resilience,” said Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima. More than 1,000 lives are lost every year in the Philippines, with typhoons accounting for 74 percent of the fatalities, 62 percent of the total damage and 70 percent of agricultural damage. The country is also

highly exposed to geologic hazards including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. CAT-DDO 2 gives the Philippines flexibility to use the funds as needed. The drawdown period is three years and renewable up to four times for a total of 15 years. Amounts repaid during the drawdown period are available for subsequent withdrawal. Gabrielle H. Binaday

THURSDAY: DECEMBER 24, 2015

BUSINESS business@thestandard.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

The STandard BuSineSS daily STockS review Wednesday, december 23, 2015

52 Weeks

High Low

STOCKS

7.88 75.3 124.4 107 56.5 17 30.45 890 1.01 100 1.46 91.5 137 361.2 57 180 1700 124 3.26

2.5 66 88.05 88.1 45.45 12.02 19.6 625 0.225 78 0.9 62 88.35 276 41 118.2 1200 59 2.65

AG Finance Asia United Bank Banco de Oro Unibank Inc. Bank of PI China Bank COL Financial Eastwest Bank Manulife Fin. Corp. MEDCO Holdings Metrobank Natl. Reinsurance Corp. Phil. National Bank Phil. Savings Bank PSE Inc. RCBC `A’ Security Bank Sun Life Financial Union Bank Vantage Equities

2.9 46.05 104.80 85.75 37.5 15 18.5 700.00 0.510 79 0.94 51.40 100 282 31.7 138 1450.00 57.00 3.1

47 5 2.36 15.3 148 20.6 36 65.8 2.97 4.14 21.5 21.6 11.96 9.13 11.8 31.8 109 9.4 0.98 241

35.9 1.11 1.86 7.92 32 15.32 10.08 29.15 1.5 1.5 10.72 9.55 9.04 6.02 8.86 20.2 71.5 5.34 0.395 173

79 33.9 90 13.26 293 5.25 12.98 6.75 15 7.03 3.4 4.5 6.3 238 3.28 0.315 2.18 2.65 234 1.3 2.17

34.1 23.35 17.3 5.88 250.2 3.87 8.45 3 10.04 3.03 1.95 1 4.02 161 1.55 0.138 1.02 2.09 152 0.640 1.2

Aboitiz Power Corp. Agrinurture Inc. Alsons Cons. Asiabest Group C. Azuc De Tarlac Century Food Cirtek Holdings (Chips) Concepcion Crown Asia Da Vinci Capital Del Monte DNL Industries Inc. Emperador Energy Devt. Corp. (EDC) EEI First Gen Corp. First Holdings ‘A’ Integ. Micro-Electronics Ionics Inc Jollibee Foods Corp. LBC Express Liberty Flour Manila Water Co. Inc. Maxs Group Megawide Mla. Elect. Co `A’ Pepsi-Cola Products Phil. Petron Corporation Phil H2O Phinma Corporation Phoenix Petroleum Phils. Phoenix Semiconductor Pryce Corp. `A’ RFM Corporation San Miguel’Pure Foods `B’ Splash Corporation Swift Foods, Inc. TKC Steel Corp. Trans-Asia Oil Universal Robina Vitarich Corp. Vulcan Ind’l.

40.5 4.73 1.33 10.26 90.00 16.32 20.2 41.55 2.34 1.59 13.04 9.210 8.80 6.05 5.24 22.25 65.5 5.79 2.570 219.00 12.1 26.05 24.75 20 5.99 315.80 3.85 6.94 2.59 11.20 3.85 1.48 2.27 3.91 125 2.47 0.146 1.01 2.16 185.2 0.6 1.13

0.59 59.2 30.05 2.16 7.39 3.4 823.5 10.2 84 3.35 3.68 4.92 0.66 1455 7.5

0.44 48.1 20.85 1.6 6.62 0.23 634.5 7.390 12.8 2.6 1.15 2.26 0.152 837 5.3

76 9.25 0.85 17.3 5.53 9.66 0.0670 1.61 84.9 974 156 0.710 0.435 0.510

49.55 4.84 0.59 12 4.2 3 0.030 0.550 59.3 751 80 0.211 0.179 0.310

Abacus Cons. À’ Aboitiz Equity Alliance Global Inc. Anglo Holdings A Anscor À’ ATN Holdings A Ayala Corp À’ Cosco Capital DMCI Holdings F&J Prince ‘A’ F&J Prince ‘B’ Filinvest Dev. Corp. Forum Pacific GT Capital House of Inv. IPM Holdings JG Summit Holdings Lopez Holdings Corp. Lodestar Invt. Holdg.Corp. LT Group Metro Pacific Inv. Corp. MJCI Investments Inc. Pacifica À’ Prime Orion San Miguel Corp À’ SM Investments Inc. Top Frontier Unioil Res. & Hldgs Wellex Industries Zeus Holdings

0.365 57.9500 16.52 1.10 6.30 0.210 757 8.03 13.86 5.89 6.04 4.16 0.210 1330 5.50 9.68 73.00 6.59 0.69 14.6 5.24 3.79 0.0300 1.860 46.50 853.50 69.700 0.2800 0.2100 0.240

10.5 26.95 1.99 41.4 5.6 5.59 1.44 1.48 0.201 0.69 10.96 0.97 2.22

6.74 12 0.65 30.05 3.36 4.96 0.79 0.97 0.083 0.415 2.4 0.83 1.15

8990 HLDG 7.290 Anchor Land Holdings Inc. 7.78 A. Brown Co., Inc. 0.79 Ayala Land `B’ 35.800 Belle Corp. `A’ 2.7 Cebu Holdings 4.65 Century Property 0.55 Cityland Dev. `A’ 1.05 Crown Equities Inc. 0.120 Cyber Bay Corp. 0.440 Double Dragon 23.8 Empire East Land 0.810 Global-Estate 1.01

Trading Summary FINANCIAL INDUSTRIAL HOLDING FIRMS PROPERTY SERVICES MINING & OIL GRAND TOTAL

SHARES 5,653,796 46,681,211 44,255,113 56,566,509 160,737,984 175,033,129 489,999,582

High

Low

FINANCIAL 3.04 2.82 46.25 46 105.50 104.80 85.75 85.00 37.95 37 15 15 19 18.86 760.00 760.00 0.510 0.470 80.45 79.5 0.94 0.93 53.00 51.40 100 99 282 280 32.6 31.7 140 138 1440.00 1440.00 57.00 56.95 3.1 3.1 INDUSTRIAL 41.35 40.5 4.81 4.65 1.37 1.3 10.36 10.02 99.95 99.95 16.64 16.4 20.9 20.05 41.55 41.5 2.33 2.27 1.63 1.59 13.5 13.12 9.310 9.220 9.00 8.91 6.21 6.04 5.49 5.29 22.8 22.15 66.95 65.35 5.81 5.79 2.680 2.400 222.00 216.80 12.1 12 26.00 27.90 24.9 24.55 20.5 19.9 6.01 6 315.80 312.00 4 3.9 7.05 6.94 2.97 2.96 11.60 11.08 3.85 3.75 1.71 1.45 2.28 2.21 3.95 3.94 132 122 2.47 2.46 0.146 0.144 1.02 1.00 2.18 2.16 187.3 185.1 0.6 0.6 1.11 1.11 HOLDING FIRMS 0.370 0.365 58.0000 57.8000 16.90 16.58 1.05 1.05 6.39 6.30 0.210 0.208 764.5 757 8.15 8 14.00 13.84 6.22 5.9 6.2 6.2 4.10 4.10 0.210 0.210 1351 1336 5.50 5.50 9.50 9.30 73.75 72.90 6.73 6.6 0.72 0.68 15.04 14.6 5.3 5.19 3 3 0.0310 0.0300 1.870 1.860 49.00 46.60 865.00 853.50 69.600 69.550 0.2850 0.2800 0.1950 0.1950 0.240 0.240 PROPERTY 7.350 7.250 7.50 7.49 0.79 0.75 35.900 35.150 2.8 2.7 5 4.9 0.56 0.55 1.050 1.03 0.120 0.119 0.445 0.440 24.7 23.9 0.820 0.750 1.05 1.02

Net Foreign

Change Volume

Trade/Buying

2.98 46.2 105.00 85.40 37 15 18.98 760.00 0.510 79.5 0.94 51.40 100 280 32 138 1440.00 56.95 3.1

2.76 0.33 0.19 -0.41 -1.33 0.00 2.59 8.57 0.00 0.63 0.00 0.00 0.00 -0.71 0.95 0.00 -0.69 -0.09 0.00

82,000 8,500 1,437,500 852,780 41,500 2,400 80,700 50 1,549,000 1,230,900 173,000 54,740 30 3,200 50,300 60,440 5 4,510 22,000

41.35 4.65 1.33 10.28 99.95 16.54 20.05 41.5 2.3 1.6 13.26 9.260 8.98 6.07 5.39 22.4 65.4 5.8 2.420 220.00 12 26.00 24.8 19.92 6 312.00 3.95 6.98 2.97 11.60 3.85 1.56 2.21 3.95 125 2.46 0.144 1.00 2.18 185.9 0.6 1.11

2.10 -1.69 0.00 0.19 11.06 1.35 -0.74 -0.12 -1.71 0.63 1.69 0.54 2.05 0.33 2.86 0.67 -0.15 0.17 -5.84 0.46 -0.83 -0.19 0.20 -0.40 0.17 -1.20 2.60 0.58 14.67 3.57 0.00 5.41 -2.64 1.02 0.00 -0.40 -1.37 -0.99 0.93 0.38 0.00 -1.77

3,838,200 448,000 1,797,000 5,700 1,040 84,200 498,700 108,200 253,000 320,000 122,900 5,109,300 200,400 9,369,400 415,500 1,731,300 233,040 759,100 13,211,000 861,100 80,000 3,000 260,100 1,833,000 1,600 99,490 124,000 1,024,700 4,000 94,200 42,000 832,000 167,000 9,000 33,770 191,000 1,440,000 216,000 254,000 476,190 10,000 100,000

0.370 57.9000 16.72 1.05 6.39 0.208 759 8.08 14.00 5.91 6.2 4.10 0.210 1345 5.50 9.30 73.50 6.6 0.7 15 5.24 3 0.0300 1.860 49.00 865.00 69.550 0.2850 0.1950 0.240

1.37 -0.09 1.21 -4.55 1.43 -0.95 0.26 0.62 1.01 0.34 2.65 -1.44 0.00 1.13 0.00 -3.93 0.68 0.15 1.45 2.74 0.00 -20.84 0.00 0.00 5.38 1.35 -0.22 1.79 -7.14 0.00

1,390,000 1,150,010 5,877,300 5,000 900 350,000 114,480 2,028,800 3,313,600 83,100 1,200 2,000 600,000 88,445 39,000 71,000 1,253,560 1,286,600 4,000 7,662,900 6,727,400 1,000 11,300,000 228,000 248,200 106,940 620 80,000 10,000 220,000

7.280 7.50 0.77 35.700 2.7 5 0.55 1.05 0.120 0.445 24.5 0.750 1.03

-0.14 -3.60 -2.53 -0.28 0.00 7.53 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.14 2.94 -7.41 1.98

71,800 1,300 1,210,000 6,318,900 5,897,000 46,000 467,000 6,000 610,000 740,000 782,700 8,057,000 1,537,000

120,045.00 16,643,833 -10,615,005.50 -63,150.00 1,471,428.00 -21,997,020.50 1,742,501.50 -615,214.00 -638,950 3,039,973.00 -38,145.00 -14,178,850.00 -47,000.00 52,600.00 53,973.00 -33,090.00 50,475.00 -3,523,885 219,420.00 -5,021,747.00 -382,540.00 -7,319,522.00 1,644,625.00 10,801,420.00 -7,961,587.50 4,149,320.00 -231,190.00 69,411,844.00 3,287,260.00 189,964.00 -3,742,242.00 7,700.00 465,895.00 -723,136.00 34,230.00 -3,950.00 -3,461,140.00 10,000.00 6,582,130.00

17,742,083.50 33,316,430.00 1,278.00 31,254,110.00 8,962,571.00 37,372,058.00

64,387,105.00 96,250.00 24,458,137.00 21,730.00 83,200,176.00 3,410,878.00

-1,374,995.00 7,608,435.00

52 Weeks

High Low

STOCKS

27,500.00

2,029,420.00 -6,357,690.00

High

Net Foreign

Change Volume

Trade/Buying

0.00 0.00 0.47 1.30 -3.23 0.51 -0.58 1.31 5.80 -1.91 -0.44 0.00 16.50 1.20 2.36

6,214,000 35,000 8,195,000 520,000 500,000 2,500 1,000 2,710,500 7,000 567,000 8,940,900 1,190,000 1,200 206,000 1,722,200

10.5 66 1.44 1.09 15.82 0.1430 5.06 99.1 12.3 7.67 1700 2720 8.41 70.5 1.97 119.5 5.8 0.017 0.8200 2.2800 5.93 12.28 3.32 2.53 3.2 95.5 1 2.46 15.2

1.97 35.2 1 0.63 8.6 0.0770 2.95 56.1 10.14 4.8 830 1600 5.95 17.02 1.23 102.6 4 0.011 0.041 1.200 2.34 6.5 1.91 1.01 1.95 3.1 0.650 1.8 6

0.62 1.040 22.8 6.41 18 185 22.9 3486 0.760 2.28 46.05 90.1

0.335 0.37 14.54 3 8.8 79 4.39 2748 0.435 1.2 31.45 60.55

11.6 0.85 10 0.490 1.9

7.59 0.63 5 0.315 1.14

2GO Group’ ABS-CBN Acesite Hotel APC Group, Inc. Bloomberry Boulevard Holdings Calata Corp. Cebu Air Inc. (5J) Centro Esc. Univ. DFNN Inc. FEUI Globe Telecom GMA Network Inc. Grand Plaza Hotel Harbor Star I.C.T.S.I. Imperial Res. `B’ IP E-Game Ventures Inc. Island Info ISM Communications Jackstones Leisure & Resorts Liberty Telecom Lorenzo Shipping Macroasia Corp. Manila Broadcasting Manila Bulletin Manila Jockey Melco Crown Metro Retail MG Holdings NOW Corp. Pacific Online Sys. Corp. PAL Holdings Inc. Phil. Racing Club Phil. Seven Corp. Philweb.Com Inc. PLDT Common PremiereHorizon Premium Leisure Puregold Robinsons RTL SBS Phil. Corp. SSI Group STI Holdings Travellers Waterfront Phils. Yehey

0.57 0.63 -2.61 -1.02 1.90 0.00 -2.37 1.00 0.21 -0.20 -0.52 0.00 1.18 -17.02 -4.10 0.58 0.00 -2.00 2.70 0.00 -0.50 -0.13 -1.59 -0.90 0.00 8.33 7.84 0.00 6.84 3.79 9.80 2.53 0.00 3.33 3.74 -1.09 2.36 1.17 -1.05 5.26 1.17 -0.87 -0.97 -1.16 0.00 3.03 -7.46 -4.43

108,200 1,350 31,000 30,000 4,117,000 9,200,000 3,162,000 387,670 5,800 21,100 220 26,890 13,100 65,100 157,000 729,480 200 5,500,000 350,000 189,000 26,000 184,600 54,000 60,000 14,000 700 95,000 20,000 36,932,000 4,513,000 40,000 2,803,000 700 5,000 5,000 400 96,500 138,605 260,000 84,796,000 1,332,500 720,640 947,000 2,065,000 790,000 76,000 20,000 9,000

0.0098 5.45 17.24 0.330 1.19 1.62 9.5 4.2 0.48 0.420 0.440 0.022 0.023 8.2 49.2 4.27 1.030 0.020 0.021 12.88 10.42 0.040 420 9

0.0043 1.72 6.47 0.236 0.85 0.77 5.99 1.17 0.305 0.2130 0.2160 0.013 0.014 3.240 18.96 2.11 0.365 0.012 0.013 7.26 2.27 0.015 115.9 3.67

Abra Mining Apex À’ Atlas Cons. À’ Basic Energy Corp. Century Peak Metals Hldgs Coal Asia Dizon Ferronickel Geograce Res. Phil. Inc. Lepanto À’ Lepanto `B’ Manila Mining À’ Manila Mining `B’ Marcventures Hldgs., Inc. Nickelasia Nihao Mineral Resources Omico Oriental Pet. À’ Oriental Pet. `B’ Philex À’ PhilexPetroleum Philodrill Corp. À’ Semirara Corp. TA Petroleum

2.04 1.11 -0.25 -3.33 0.00 0.00 0.69 -1.43 -1.79 0.00 -0.54 10.00 0.00 0.50 1.46 -0.36 0.00 -6.00 0.00 -2.05 -0.77 0.00 1.21 1.44

45,000,000 1,000 49,000 -145,310.00 40,000 254,000 29,500.00 93,000 500 1,291,000 2,050.00 220,000 1,610,000 1,490,000 37,000.00 892,000,000 600,000 96,000 244,500 3,393,797.00 13,000 1,000 5,000,000 100,000 402,000 -8,780.00 89,000 -1,320.00 26,600,000 242,850 4,918,910.00 160,000 -44,290.00

70 515 8.21 1047

33 480 5.88 1011

ABS-CBN Holdings Corp. GLOBE PREF P GMA Holdings Inc. PF Pref 2 PNX PREF 3A PNX PREF 3B SMC Preferred D SMC Preferred E SMC Preferred F

0.47 0.38 6.25 0.00 0.00 -0.28 0.13 0.45 1.27

153,790 2,740 100,000 2,000 10,580 5,000 1,230 1,030 2,100

-2.40

361,000

0.32 2.88 4.58 1.57

5,000 7,000 799,000 239,600

1.15

21,240

6.98

0.8900 LR Warrant

3.5

12.88

5.95

130.7

105.6 First Metro ETF

Alterra Capital Makati Fin. Corp. Italpinas Xurpas

1.84 1.80 1.81 1.17 1.16 1.17 4.35 4.26 4.31 0.078 0.075 0.078 0.2500 0.2400 0.2400 19.60 19.60 19.60 8.55 8.55 8.55 27.50 26.65 27.15 1.46 1.38 1.46 3.1 3.01 3.08 22.85 22.40 22.40 0.75 0.74 0.74 7 6.8 6.99 0.840 0.830 0.840 5.240 5.090 5.200 SERVICES 7 7.15 6.72 7.04 63.5 63.9 63.45 63.9 1.15 1.23 1.12 1.12 0.490 0.485 0.485 0.485 4.20 4.28 4.17 4.28 0.0400 0.0410 0.0400 0.0400 3.37 3.4 3.29 3.29 79.7 81.5 80.4 80.5 9.51 9.97 9.53 9.53 5.09 5.08 5.03 5.08 960 960 955 955 1900 1929 1900 1900 6.80 6.88 6.81 6.88 21.45 21.00 17.80 17.80 1.22 1.21 1.15 1.17 69.35 70.35 69.5 69.75 28 28 28 28 0.010 0.010 0.008 0.010 0.148 0.158 0.152 0.152 1.4000 1.4000 1.3700 1.4000 2.01 2.01 2 2 7.63 7.70 7.62 7.62 4.39 4.40 4.30 4.32 1.11 1.10 1.10 1.10 2.35 2.36 2.20 2.35 24.00 26.00 26.00 26.00 0.510 0.560 0.550 0.550 1.97 1.97 1.97 1.97 1.9 2.08 1.9 2.03 3.69 3.85 3.69 3.83 0.255 0.280 0.255 0.280 0.790 0.820 0.790 0.810 18 18 18 18 4.50 4.65 4.50 4.65 9.1 9.44 9.44 9.44 101.10 100.10 100.00 100.00 21.20 21.70 21.00 21.70 2052.00 2120.00 2060.00 2076.00 0.475 0.470 0.470 0.470 0.570 0.630 0.580 0.600 34.30 34.70 34.00 34.70 63.00 63.70 62.40 62.45 6.20 6.30 6.14 6.14 3.44 3.49 3.40 3.40 0.430 0.435 0.430 0.430 3.3 3.45 3.3 3.4 0.335 0.310 0.310 0.310 4.290 4.100 4.100 4.100 MINING & OIL 0.0049 0.0050 0.0049 0.0050 1.80 1.82 1.82 1.82 4.04 4.04 4.02 4.03 0.210 0.203 0.203 0.203 0.59 0.61 0.59 0.59 0.56 0.56 0.54 0.56 7.20 7.30 7.15 7.25 0.7 0.7 0.68 0.69 0.280 0.280 0.270 0.275 0.175 0.176 0.175 0.175 0.186 0.185 0.185 0.185 0.0100 0.0110 0.0110 0.0110 0.011 0.011 0.011 0.011 1.99 2.04 1.99 2 6.16 6.34 6.15 6.25 2.79 2.81 2.72 2.78 0.5400 0.5400 0.5400 0.5400 0.0100 0.0095 0.0094 0.0094 0.0110 0.0110 0.0110 0.0110 4.40 4.41 4.30 4.31 1.30 1.32 1.28 1.29 0.0120 0.0120 0.0110 0.0120 132.40 134.70 133.60 134.00 2.09 2.12 2.09 2.12 PREFERRED 64.2 65 64.5 64.5 520 522 522 522 6.4 6.8 6.8 6.8 1019 1020 1019 1019 103.5 103.9 103.5 103.5 106.8 106.5 106.5 106.5 78.3 78.4 78.3 78.4 78 78.35 78.35 78.35 78.8 79.8 79.8 79.8 WARRANTS & BONDS 2.500 2.600 2.350 2.440 SME 3.11 3.35 3.12 3.12 2.78 2.88 2.8 2.86 2.84 3.07 2.79 2.97 15.26 15.78 15.3 15.5 EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 112.8 114.1 112.9 114.1

Filinvest Land,Inc. 1.81 Interport `A’ 1.17 Megaworld 4.29 MRC Allied Ind. 0.077 Phil. Estates Corp. 0.2480 Phil. Tob. Flue Cur & Redry 19.50 Primex Corp. 8.6 Robinson’s Land `B’ 26.80 Rockwell 1.38 Shang Properties Inc. 3.14 SM Prime Holdings 22.50 Sta. Lucia Land Inc. 0.74 Starmalls 6 Suntrust Home Dev. Inc. 0.830 Vista Land & Lifescapes 5.080

1,032,660.00 -7,284,460.00 57,600.00 8,550.00 -3,682,180.00 -1,284,520.00 96,995,490.00 700.00 154,488.00

-8,712,520.00 5,067,796.50

-10,313,095.00

-2,733,084.50 2,910.00 1,400.00 10,000.00 7,680.00

-20,536,360.00 1,506,130.00 267,300.00

1,000.00 735,995.00 52,174,080.00 683,710.00 31,304,780.00 3,441,188.00 93,200.00 305,590.00 -37,400.00

-5,707,715.00 -190,400.00

77,616.00 78,350.00

-93,720.00 39,570.00

T op L oSerS

STOCKS

FINANCIAL 1,547.93 (UP) 0.34 INDUSTRIAL 10,982.80 (UP) 52.22 HOLDING FIRMS 6,641.04 (UP) 56.37 PROPERTY 2,987.64 (DOWN) 1.13 SERVICES 1,527.00 (UP) 13.23 MINING & OIL 10,264.80 (UP) 64.86 PSEI 7,002.42 (UP) 36.24 All Shares Index 3,994.66 (UP) 24.19 Gainers: 97; Losers: 67; Unchanged: 42; Total: 206

1.42 1.27 4.13 0.090 0.290 23 2.69 22.15 1.6 3.1 15.08 0.69 3.38 0.83 5.73

T op g ainerS VALUE 340,940,344.75 754,501,289.79 791,172,105.30 604,084,506.91 720,291,066.385 53,600,746.222 3,273,132,330.36

Low

2.1 1.8 5.94 0.180 0.470 27 8.54 31.8 2.29 4.9 21.35 1.06 7.56 1.62 8.59

193,892.00 30,687,770.00 -2,767,210.00

Close (P)

Change (%)

STOCKS

Close (P)

Change (%)

Del Monte

11.5

11.00

Roxas Holdings

4.5

-10.00

F&J Prince 'A'

5.9

9.26

Oriental Pet. `A'

0.0100

-9.09

F&J Prince 'B'

9.09

Melco Crown

2.71

-9.06

Zeus Holdings

0.300

9.09

Oriental Pet. `B'

0.0092

-8.00

Xurpas

15.4

8.45

Alliance Tuna Intl Inc.

0.71

-7.79

Anglo Holdings A

1.10

7.84

Manila Bulletin

0.560

-6.67

NOW Corp.

0.870

7.41

Manulife Fin. Corp.

710.00

-6.58

Omico

0.6000

7.14

Keppel Properties

3.75

-6.48

Agrinurture Inc.

4.85

6.59

Transgrid

150.00

-6.25

Italpinas

3.86

6.04

Interport `A'

1.13

-5.83

THURSDAY: DECEMBER 24, 2015

BUSINESS business@thestandard.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

Gawad Saka awardees. Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala (center), Assistant Secretary Edilberto de Luna (first from left) and Gawad Saka 2015 chairman and director Ariel Cayanan (second from left) pose with the 45th Gawad Saka awardees at the Reception Hall, Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on December 9, 2015. The outstanding achievers—farmers and fishers from different regions—received presidential citations, commendations and cash awards for their exceptional achievements and contributions to the overall growth in agri sector for the past years.

SEC eases financial statement standards By Jenniffer B. Austria THE Securities and Exchange Commission en banc agreed to extend the effectivity of financial statements to 180 days from the current 135 days to align rules with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations standard. “This reform in financial reporting standard aims to address the recurring requests from companies for exemptive relief to extend the effectivity of their FS. This is also in line with the Asean standard for the age requirement for FS which is 180 days,” SEC said. “Accounting and auditing professionals, prospective issuers of securities and other concerned organizations are advised to take note of this new requirement. With the approval..., the Commission will no longer entertain further request for extension of the 180-day period,” the SEC added. The Securities Regulation Code provided that for a registration statement to become effective, the financial information should as of a date within 135 days or such longer period which the commission may allow upon favorable consideration of a written request of the registrant. “The factors that may considered in granting the request include the time constraints and the significant circumstances surrounding the given proposed issue,” the code said. Several companies, especially those planning to conduct initial public offerings and experiencing difficulty in securing regulatory approvals, have asked for an extension of the effectivity of their financial statements. The SEC said the new directive was effective immediately. The SEC in August also amended some of the provisions of the Securities Regulation Code.

PH, Asian stocks up on Wall Street rally STOCKS rose Wednesday, with buying supported by another Wall Street rally as a positive reading on US growth and consumer spending renewed confidence in the world’s top economy.

The Philippine Stock Exchange Index gained 36.24 points, or 0.5 percent, to 7,002.42 on a value turnover of P3.3 billion. Gainers beat losers, 97 to 67, with 42 issues unchanged. Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co., the biggest telecommunications firm, added 1.2 percent to P2,076, while Aboitiz Power Corp., a major power generator, climbed 2.1 percent to P41.35. LT Group Inc. of airline and tobacco tycoon Lucio Tan advanced 2.7 percent to P15, while SM Investments Corp. of retail tycoon Henry Sy increased 1.4 percent to P865. The rest of Asian stock markets extended their gains Wednesday.

Hong Kong ended up one percent, Sydney closed 0.5 percent higher and Seoul strengthened 0.3 percent. However, Shanghai succumbed to late profit-taking, slipping in the last 20 minutes to end 0.4 percent lower. Oil prices also enjoyed another rise—with the US benchmark at parity with its European counterpart after overtaking it Tuesday for the first time in nearly a year—while regional energy firms ticked higher. US stocks climbed for a second day on data showing steady economic growth in line with expectations during July-September. Personal consumption, which drives about two-thirds of the economy, was also solid. The figures settled some nerves on global markets. Traders had grown concerned about the outlook due to the plunge in oil prices and weakness outside the United States, particularly in China. Last week’s euphoria over the Federal Reserve’s interest rate rise, which had boosted overall confidence in the economy, had also started to give way to caution about the bank’s plans for its next rise. “Consumer spending looks like it’s helping

the US economy,” James Lindsay, an Auckland-based fund manager at Nikko Asset Management, told Bloomberg News. “Volumes tend to get pretty light at this time of year. Markets have had a reasonable run and value is a lot harder to come by. “The key things are still what happens with China, the flow-on effects into commodities and what the Fed does and how that affects sentiment and currencies.” Crude prices saw a rare second straight gain after climbing Tuesday, when WTI topped Brent for the first time since January. In the afternoon in Asia WTI was up 0.7 percent at $36.40 and Brent added 0.8 percent to also sit at $36.40. The once-wide spread between the two contracts has narrowed since Washington last week passed a bill lifting a 40year ban on US oil exports which analysts said could ease a glut in the country. However, Bernard Aw, market strategist at IG in Singapore, said the outlook for the commodity, which is around 60 percent off its high of above $100 in summer 2014, was still “bearish” due to a global oversupply. With AFP

PSE upbeat on taking over fixed exchange operator THE Philippine Stock Exchange remains confident its request to own at least two-thirds of Philippine Dealing Systems Holdings Corp. will be approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The PSE said in a statement it was providing the corporate regulator with additional information on the proposed acquisition of PDS Holdings, the operator of the country’s fixed exchange. The PSE has been given until January 26, 2016 by the SEC to clarify certain items about the PDS deal. “We hope that the additional requirements we will provide will

be sufficient basis for the SEC to approve our request to pursue this landmark transaction,” said PSE president and chief executive Hans Sicat. The PSE submitted its application for an exemption relief to the SEC in April 2015 after some of the major shareholders of PDS Holdings agreed to sell their stake to PSE, which already owns 20.98 percent interest in PDS Holdings. The commercial aspect of the transaction has been completed and agreed with various shareholders of PDS Holdings. The share purchase agreements signed by the parties remain subject to regulatory approvals.

“We are looking forward to a favorable action by the SEC so that we can be a step closer to completing the PDS deal. We believe that unifying both exchanges will make our capital market more competitive in the region,” Sicat said. The deadline for the sale purchase agreements between the PSE and PDS Holdings shareholders expired onh Nov. 27, 2015, after the exchange failed to get a relief from the SEC on the 20 percent ownership limit. The PSE is still pursuing the deal after none of the selling PDS Holdings’ shareholders notified the exchange they were no lon-

ger interested in pushing through with the agreement. The PSE has offered to acquire a majority stake in PDS Holdings based on an enterprise value of P2.25 billion. Among the PDS Holdings’ shareholders are the Bankers Association of the Philippines, San Miguel Corp. and Golden Astra, Singapore Stock Exchange, Tata Consultancy Serves Asia, Computershare Technology Services, The Philippine America Life and General Insurance Co., Financial Executive Institute of the Philippines, Social Security System and Investment House Association of the Philippines. Jenniffer B. Austria

Meralco watches supply in Luzon grid By Alena Mae S. Flores POWER retailer Manila Electric Co. said it will closely watch the power supply in Luzon next year as power plants will likely move their maintenance schedule to the second half to ensure electricity is available during the election period in May. “Everybody is trying to avoid a scheduled shutdown during election,” Meralco president Oscar Reyes told reporters. Demand usually shoots up during the dry months. The government predicted that the El Niño weather phenomenon would occur until the first half, which could affect the performance of hydro power plants. Reyes said power generating companies agreed to move their maintenance schedules to the second half, which could result in a tight power supply during the period. “This may put some tightness in supply based on their maintenance schedule,” the Meralco executive said. Reyes said Meralco was preparing for an increased demand during the dry months next year by tapping additional interim supply of around 240 megawatts. “That’s the reason why we’re trying to contract the interim power supply agreements,” he said. Reyes said participants in the interruptible load program or ILP could be tapped again to manage demand during the period. The ILP has generated commitment from power users such as mall operators, commercial and industrial buildings and other industries to de-load and not draw power from the Luzon grid by utilizing their generating sets. These ILPs have a combined capacity of around 800 MW.

MSME advocate. Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo (right) carries on his advocacy for micro, small and medium enterprises at the open-

ing event of the Trade and Development Symposium in Nairobi, Kenya. As one of the panelists, Domingo spoke on the role of MSMEs in moving the sustainable agenda forward. With the theme ‘Trade and the 2030 Development Agenda,’[ the event complements discussions of the 10th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization held on Dec. 15 to 18, 2015.

China Bank to open 66 branches in 2016 By Julito G. Rada

CHINA Banking Corp., a universal bank controlled by tycoon Henry Sy, said it will continue its aggressive expansion in 2016 by opening 66 new branches nationwide. China Bank said in a statement it planned to open 50 branches for the main bank and 16 for its thrift bank unit China Bank Savings. “China Bank plans to sustain its branch expansion plan, targeting to open 50 branches for the main bank and 16 for the savings bank in 2016,” it said. The bank said it opened 47 branches in 2015, including 38 China Bank branches and nine China Bank Savings branches. The new branches brought the China Bank group’s total network to 517 branches nation-

wide in 2015. It said of the total number, China Bank accounted for 352 branches while China Bank Savings, including recently acquired Plantersbank, had 165. The group opened the final 10 branches in Metro Manila on Dec. 22. The bank opened three branches in Manila, two each in Quezon City and Parañaque and one each in Makati, Pasig and San Juan. There are now 175 China Bank branches in Metro Manila. There are now 32 branches in Manila, with the opening of Lavezares, Oroquieta and Manila-Maceda branches. Newly-opened Holy Spirit Drive and Cubao-P. Tuazon branches brought the number of China Bank branches in Quezon City to 51. China Bank now has eight branches serving the banking needs of residents and businesses in Parañaque City, with the addition of branches in Parañaque-Moonwalk and Solemare.

China Bank also opened Makati-J.P. Rizal Branch, its 21st branch in Makati; Pasig-San Joaquin Branch, the 12th China Bank branch in Pasig City; and Greenhills-Connecticut Branch, its 6th in San Juan City. The new Metro Manila branches offer a full range of banking products and services and are each equipped with automated teller machines to serve customers beyond banking hours. China Bank posted an 8-percent growth in consolidated net income in the first nine months to P3.64 billion, on the back of stronger lending and lower cost of funding. The three-quarter performance translated into a return on equity of 8.35 percent and a return on assets of 1.02 percent. Net interest income grew 8 percent to P11.17 billion year-on-year as revenues from loans rose 8 percent, while interest expense dropped 6 percent as a significant block of high-cost funds (time deposits) was replaced by low-cost CASA (checking and savings accounts), which grew

PLDT, UniTeller team up for money transfer business By Darwin G. Amojelar THE international marketing arm of Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. teamed up with international remittance network UniTeller Financial Services to develop an online portal and mobile application to enable USbased Filipinos to send money to the Philippines. “We are relentless in our pursuit of improving the lives of our overseas Filipinos. This partnership with UniTeller empowers our fellow Filipinos in the US to conveniently and securely send money to their loved ones in the Philippines using their mobile

phones,” said PLDT Global Corp. chairman Eric Alberto, who is also the PLDT executive vice president and head of enterprise and international and carrier business. PGC is the international marketing, sales and operating arm of PLDT that reaches out to more than 10 million Filipinos overseas. “This new service will be a welcome solution for our Fil-Am market as it fits well their digital lifestyle. With this mobile remittance app, they can send money anytime and anywhere they are,” Alberto said. PGC president and chief executive Alex Caeg said the new mo-

bile app would make the practice of money remittance easier, faster and more convenient for relatives in the US. “With this new mobile app, sending money would be as easy as texting or updating our Facebook status. It doesn’t take much time, expense and effort, unlike the conventional way that entails going to a bank or a remittance center,” he said. Caeg said Fil-Americans could avail of the free transaction for money remittances to the Philippines on Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, 2015. “It is an honor for us to serve the US-based Filipinos’ money remittances requirements with

PLDT Global as partner. As an international money transfer processing company in the US for over 20 years, we can assure our customers of our fast, secure, and convenient service,” UniTeller president and chief executive Alberto Guerra said. UniTeller Financial Services, a New Jersey based Corp., is one of the market leaders in international remittances, with a network of more than 30,000 paying locations around the world. It has an office at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City that takes care of the money remittance fulfillment to recipients in the Philippines.

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Rentokil eyes PH expansion By Othel V. Campos RENTOKIL Initial Philippines Inc., the local unit of a US sanitation and pest control company, said it plans to increase its sales in the residential sector over the next five years. The company said it aimed to increase the share of the residential sector to 30 percent of total business by 2020 from the current 12 percent. Rentokil Initial Philippines managing director Ederine Gee Geneblazo said the increasing awareness on hygiene and pest control to avoid life-threatening diseases had encouraged more home owners to become open and pro-active in sanitizing their homes. “There has been a lot of inquiry lately on our website. We see that in the next five years, the share of residential to our business will grow rapidly to more than a hundred fold. Right now the bulk of our operations is more on commercial,” she said. Geneblazo said the Philippine market was unique, compared to European or AsiaPacific markets where the company’s commercial and residential operations were in the same proportion. The company said it posted a double-digit growth in sales as it continued to expand across the nation from active markets in Manila, Cebu, Pampanga to Davao. It has recently expanded to deliver services in Cavite, Iloilo, Batangas and La Union. The company directly employs 202 employees that include entomologists and agriculturists for pest control. It services the large hotels, resorts, food manufacturing companies, pharmaceuticals, hospitals and business process outsourcing companies. Rentokill in the Philippines has a 26-percent market share in pest control and 23 percent in hygiene and sanitation.

DoTC freezes fees on new license plates By Darwin G. Amojelar

THE Transportation Department said Wednesday the Land Transportation Office will temporarily stop collecting fees for new license plates after the Commission on Audit disallowed the project. This means that vehicle owners who have not yet paid for the new license plates will not have to shell out P450 upon their renewal of registration, according to the department. “We are currently in the process of resolving the issue with CoA regarding the Plate Standardization Program. We hope issues will be resolved and CoA lifts the disallowance so we can provide the public with plates for improved road safety,” Transpor-

tation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said. CoA issued a notice in July, saying the LTO’s 2013 license plate contract with supplier Power Plates Development Concepts Inc.-J. Knieriem BV-Goes was in violation of the Auditing Code, because the project was allegedly awarded without an allotment under the 2014 General Appropriations Act. The LTO assured that the new

standardized plates would be issued to motorists who had settled the payment as soon as the issue with CoA was resolved. The Transportation Department and the LTO rolled out the Plate Standardization Program in May 2014 for newly registered vehicles. The LTO issued Memorandum Circular No. AVT-2014-1895 in January 2015, mandating vehicle owners to replace their old license plates with the new standardized plates. The Plate Standardization project is a part of the Transportation Department’s reform programs to improve road safety by curbing illegal practices such as production of fake plates, plate removal and plate switching by adding safety features such as tamper-resistant locks and bolts

and reflectorized sheeting which make plates visible from any angle. The new license plates for private motor vehicles support a black-and-white design, similar to those in most countries around the world. They have tamperresistant locks and screws which permanently attach the plates to the vehicle, preventing their removal and transfer. They also feature reflectorized sheeting to make them visible from afar and from any angle. The permanent “third plate” windshield sticker replaces the current yearly sticker, and will indicate the vehicle’s license plate number and other relevant registration information. It cannot be peeled off without leaving these pieces of information on the windshield.

Cebuana gets ISO certificate. Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions receives an ISO 9001:2008 certification from the International

Organization from Standardization, becoming the first and only ISO-certified insurance agency in the Philippines. Shown are (from left) BRS auditors Catherine Corro and Carol Bautista, BRS managing partner Edward Afable, PJ Lhuillier Inc. president Jean Henri Lhuillier, Ambassador and PJ Lhuillier chairman Philippe Jones Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions general manager Jonathan Batangan and Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions vice-president for operations Leo Escano.

Govt borrowings increased 5.6% to P313.7b in first 10 months By Gabriele H. Binaday GOVERNMENT borrowings increased 5.6 percent in the first 10 months to P313.70 billion from P297.017 billion a year ago, following a sharp increase in foreign-denominated loans, data from the Bureau of Treasury show. Data showed that gross external borrowings jumped 30 percent in the January-Oc-

tober period to P123.925 billion from P95.18 billion in the same period last year. Borrowings in the international market coursed through project loans reached P23.102 billion while program loans amounted to P66.170 billion. Domestic borrowings fell 6 percent to P189.779 billion in the first 10 months from P201.837 billion a year earlier.

Borrowings in October alone nearly doubled to P33.768 billion from P16.920 billion in the same month last year. Broken down, external borrowings soared to P18.888 billion from P880 million in October 2014 while borrowings from the local market declined 7.2 percent to P14.880 billion. The national government

reduced its borrowing requirement from the original target after it posted a fiscal surplus in the first half of 2015, as opposed to the programmed deficit for the sixmonth period. Based on the inter-agency Development Budget Coordination Committee’s mid-year report on the 2015 national budget, the net financing program for 2015 was revised to

P296.8 billion from the original P310.4 billion. The borrowing mix was also revised to 75 percent locally sourced and 25 percent foreign from the original target of 86 percent and 14 percent, respectively. The government plans to borrow P241.8 billion from the domestic market this year and P55 billion from foreign creditors.

THURSDAY: DECEMBER 24, 2015

BUSINESS business@thestandard.com.ph extrastory2000@gmail.com

US growth estimate cut to 2% Time to recognize Elpidio Quirino THE year 2015 is the 125th anniversary of the year of birth of the second President of the Republic of the Philippines, and I would not like this year to fade into history without writing a few lines about the life and times of Elpidio Quirino. Vice President Quirino succeeded to the presidency when Manuel Roxas, his Liberal Party running mate in the 1946 election, died of a heart attack in 1947. I want to write about the pride of Vigan, Ilocos Sur because Elpidio Quirino is one of the saddest figures in the history of the Philippine presidency. The generations that have come after the 1950s don’t know much about President Quirino. That is because after his failed re-election bid in 1953 the second president moved out of the public eye and went into a quiet retirement. Elpidio Quirino lost the presidential election of 1953 partly—perhaps largely—on account of Nacionalista Party charges of extravagance and corruption in Malacañang. The opposition, led by his former secretary of national defense Ramon Magsaysay, charged Quirino with, among other things, purchasing a P5,000 orinola (bedpan). Magsaysay’s campaign staff really went to town with the issue of the alleged super-expensive bedpan, telling the electorate that the man in Malacañang had totally lost his sense of proportions. That was very unfortunate for two reasons. One was Elpidio Quirino’s deep sense of personal honesty. No allegations of personal corruption followed the one-time teacher when he left Malacañang in 1953. The other reason why the orinola and related charges were very unfortunate was the fact that they obscured and cast aside all the momentous work that Elpidio Quirino performed during his six years in Malacañang. It was the second president who presided over the rehabilitation and recovery of the Philippine economy from the ravages of World War II. Ramon Magsaysay inherited an economy that had been revitalized after three years of ruinous warfare and was on its way to becoming Asia’s second biggest (after Japan’s). It’s such a pity that the Philippine electorate, dazzled by the exploits of the flamboyant Magsaysay, failed to accord sufficient value to the unflamboyant but steadfast efforts of the government that Elpidio Quirino headed for six crucial years. The Hukbalahap rebellion, the Korean War, the reestablishment of relations with Japan, the restructuring of political and economic ties with the US, the establishment of the Central Bank of the Philippines and the imposition of capital and import controls, the rebuilding of Philippine industry and the creation of the foreign service—these are the momentous tasks that Elpidio Quirino’s administration had to deal with. By the end of his own four-year term Elpidio Quirino could justifiably say that he had completed his job. The Philippine economy had fully recovered from World War II and was poised for steady upward movement. But all that was ignored by most of the Filipino people as they went to the polls in November 1953. All that they could think about as they filled up their ballots was the celebrated orinola and the subsequent tragic killing of Negros Occidental mayor Moises Padilla by persons believed to be associated with the military. Elpidio Quirino was a good man and a very able leader who served his country well. For too long has his memory been badly treated by history. My wish—a wish that hopefully is shared by many Filipinos—is that one of these days someone will come along who will at least give President Elpidio Quirino the recognition and credit that has long eluded him. E-mail: rudyromero777@yahoo.com

NEW YORK—The US economy grew at 2.0 percent in the third quarter, slightly weaker than previously thought, due to lower exports and business investment on inventories, according to US data Tuesday. The government’s estimate of gross domestic product—the broad measure of the economy’s output of goods and services— edged down from the prior estimate of 2.1 percent. Analysts described the report as robust, pointing to firm spending on such key categories as consumer spending and housing investment. “I would characterize it as solid growth,” said Nariman Behravesh, chief economist at IHS. “Once you get past some of these anomalies having to do with inventories and with weakness overseas, the good news is the do-

mestic parts of the economy are very solid.” The report overall “does little to change the picture of solid domestic activity offset by weakness abroad,” Barclays said. “Soft global growth and the lagged effects of lower energy prices and a stronger dollar continue to weigh on trade and manufacturing.” The July to September growth was in line with analyst estimates and marked a slowdown from the 3.9 percent growth in the second quarter. Personal consumption expenditures, which drive about twothirds of the activity in the US

economy, rose by an estimated 3.0 percent, as previously estimated. That is below the 3.6 percent in the second quarter, but well above the 1.8 percent in the first quarter. Some of the bigger factors in the downward revision from the prior estimate included a 0.7 percent drop in business inventories and export growth of just 0.7 percent, down from the prior 0.9 percent, as the strong dollar continued to weigh on trade. BBVA said the drop in inventories was not worrisome and “suggests that we will see a stronger contribution in 4Q15 as businesses increase production alongside expectations for more robust demand during the holiday shopping season.” But the drag of the strong dollar “is still lingering and there does not appear to be much upside for net exports in 4Q15 thus far,” BBVA said. AFP

Customs certificate. Bureau of Customs Commissioner Alberto Lina (left) awards Richard Barclay, chief executive of Manila North Harbour Inc., the certificate of authority to operate as an authorized Customs facility. The permit is part of the implementation of the Authorized Economic Operators program established under the World Customs Organization Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade and the World Trade Organization Trade Facilitation Agreement. The agreement ensures integrity and security of trade facilitation from supply source to Customs clearance to final distribution.

Uber teams up with Chinese auto maker GUANGZHOU, China—Uber on Tuesday announced a partnership with a major Chinese auto maker as the controversial ride-sharing service revved its efforts in the country. Uber and Guangzhou Automobile Group will work together in areas including investment, sales, marketing, and promoting new energy vehicles such as hybrid or electric cars, the San Franciscobased company said in a release. Terms of the strategic partnership included Uber China promoting GAC automobiles and the group’s used-car trading platform to ride-sharing service drivers and partners. “I believe we can unlock new opportunities to evolve how China moves, and open up even more

transportation possibilities for riders across China,” Uber China head of strategy Zhen Liu said of the alliance. Uber launched in China in February of last year and is active in 21 cities in that country, with plans to be in 100 cities within a year. The firm established a Chinese business entity, Uber China, in a Shanghai Free Trade Zone late this year. The head of Uber in October said the ride-sharing firm has spent a billion dollars to gain traction in China. Uber’s share of the Chinese market had climbed from one percent at the start of the year to about 30 percent, but it remains a distant second to the Chinese

ride-hailing app Didi Kuaidi, Uber co-founder and chief executive Travis Kalanick told a Wall Street Journal technology conference in California. While the mobile-based service was hitting profitability in some cities in North America and Europe, it remains a money-losing “underdog” in China, Kalanick said. But he said Uber would continue to plough resources into the fast-growing Chinese ride-sharing market. “We are investing a fair amount of money there,” Kalanick said at the conference. “We are definitely spending a billion dollars a year on that effort but we feel great about it. For an entrepreneur, this is where the action is.” AFP

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cesar barrioquinto EDITOR

editorial@thestandard.com.ph

Brunei sultan bans Christmas BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN—Christmas is just around the corner, but there are no tinselladen trees or Santa hats in the oil-rich sultanate of Brunei, where celebrations have been banned under a shift towards hard-line Islamic law.

Climate change boosts Greenland NUUK, Denmark—As the world struggles to limit climate change, some people in Greenland hope to cash in on rising temperatures with new species to fish, innovative exports and advances in farming. While the North Atlantic island remains highly dependent on shrimp as its main export—it is known locally as “the pink gold”— warming waters are attracting new types of fish. “It’s very nice to be able to offer freshly caught tuna and mackerel even if we are right here in Greenland,” said Bjorn Johansen, a chef at Hotel Hans Egede, the largest hotel in capital Nuuk, which has a population of 22,000. In summer, fishermen in east Greenland are now catching mackerel and Atlantic bluefin tuna that have swum far from their spawning grounds in the Mediterranean and the Gulf of Mexico. For Johansen they are a break from the monotony of Greenland’s traditional staples. For Nuuk’s home rule government, which is seeking more sources of income as the economy has to support an aging population, they are an export opportunity. Falling commodity prices have put a damper on hopes that the territory’s mineral riches—buried beneath the ice—could spark an an imminent mining boom. Instead, fisheries continue to dominate the economy, accounting for about 90 percent of exports, and mackerel and Atlantic bluefin tuna have ready markets. That is welcome news for the local government, as the subsidy from former colonial master Denmark that currently accounts for about half of the annual budget is now fixed and its value slowly erodes along with inflation. “If summer temperatures continue to increase during this century ... it is likely that bluefin tuna could become a regular summer visitor in east Greenland waters,” said Brian MacKenzie, a marine ecology professor at the Technical University of Denmark. AFP

Promotional event. Indian Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra talks to reporters during a promotional event for the forthcoming film ‘Jai Gangaajal’ directed by Prakash Jha in Mumbai on December 22, 2015. AFP

The all-powerful Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, one of the world’s richest men, announced last year he would push ahead with the introduction of sharia law, eventually including tough penalties such as death by stoning or severed limbs. Religious leaders in the oil-rich sultanate warned this month that a ban on Christmas would be strictly enforced, for fear that Muslims could be led astray. “Using religious symbols like crosses, lighting candles, putting up Christmas trees, singing religious songs, sending Christmas greetings... are against Islamic faith,” imams said in sermons published in the local press. The punishment for violating the ban is a five-year jail sentence, and the government warned last year that Muslims would be committing an offense if they so much as wore “hats or clothes that resemble Santa Claus”. Although Christians are free to celebrate, they have been told not to do so “excessively and openly”, in a directive that has had a chilling effect on the Southeast Asian nation, which sits on a corner of Borneo island. Businesses have been warned to take decorations down and authorities have stepped up spot checks across the capital. Hotels popular among Western tourists that once boasted dazzling lights and giant Christmas trees are now barren of festive decor. “This will be the saddest Christmas ever for me,” a Malaysian expatriate resident told AFP, requesting not to be named for fear of reprisals from authorities. “The best part of Christmas Day is waking up and having that feeling that it is Christmas, but there’s just none of that here and you just feel deprived.” “All this is just because of what the Sultan wants. In 2013, I saw many Muslims together with Christians having a good time at their house parties. Everything was normal and good,” he said. AFP

Refugee asks world to open its doors to Syrians LONDON—The father of threeyear old Aylan Kurdi, whose lifeless body washed up on a Turkish beach became a symbol of the global refugee crisis, has asked the world to open its doors to Syrians fleeing conflict. The toddler died after his family, sheltering in Turkey from the war in Syria, decided to make a desperate bid to reach Greece from Turkey in a flimsy inflatable boat. Shocking news images of the toddler face down on the shore

helped spur European nations to seek an effective response to the growing migrant crisis. “My message is I’d like the whole world to open its doors to Syrians. If a person shuts a door in someone’s face, this is very difficult,” Abdullah Kurdi says in a video message to be broadcast on Christmas Day. “When a door is opened they no longer feel humiliated,” he says according to a transcript released by Britain’s Channel 4. Aylan’s mother Rihana and

brother Ghaleb, 4, died in the same accident and were buried in the Syrian town of Kobane in September, days after the tragedy. Abdullah Kurdi had been trying to escape along with his family and up to three other Syrians from the flashpoint town, which was last year the site of a months-long battle between Kurdish militias and jihadists. More than one million migrants and refugees reached Europe this year, including over 970,000 who

made the dangerous journey across the Mediterranean, the UN refugee agency said on Tuesday. About half were Syrians fleeing the country’s brutal civil war, according to the new figures. “At this time of year I would like to ask you all to think about the pain of fathers, mothers and children who are seeking peace and security,” Kurdi says. “We ask just for a little bit of sympathy from you.” EU leaders have set an end-of-

June deadline to agree on a new border and coastguard force to slow the influx of migrants across the 28-nation bloc’s porous external frontiers. They have also called for the rapid delivery of a promised 3.0 billion euros ($3.25 billion) in aid for refugees in Turkey in return for its help in stemming the flow. Life is a struggle for most Syrians in Turkey, who live mostly off odd jobs that are often insufficient to feed and house a family. AFP

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CESAR BARRIOQUINTO EDITOR

editorial@thestandard.com.ph

WORLD

26,000 missing in Mexico drug state CIUDAD VICTORIA, Mexico— They were doing everyday things when they were kidnapped, never to be seen again: A woman working at her frozen fruit business. Another waiting for a bus. A policewoman having lunch. They are among the 5,000 people who are listed as “disappeared” in Tamaulipas, the northeastern Mexican state with the most missing people in Mexico, where a total of 26,000 have vanished amid a brutal, nearly decade-old drug war. Those are the official figures. For the non-governmental organization Families and Friends of the Disappeared in Tamaulipas, 11,000 people are unaccounted for in the state. The disappearance of 43 students in southern Guerrero state last year put a spotlight on the plight of Mexico’s disappeared. But there are many, many other untold stories across Mexico, especially in Tamaulipas, where many fear the consequences of angering the Gulf or Zetas drug cartels. In Ciudad Victoria, the Tamaulipas state capital, members of the Families and Friends of the Disappeared gathered at a humble home to tell their stories to AFP: • Raquel, 19: Gunmen burst into the home of Guillermo Gutierrez Riestra on September 1, 2011, and kidnapped his 19-yearold daughter, Raquel, and a friend of hers. She was about to start college and dreamed of becoming a lawyer. “It was the Zetas. They burned the house and the car. I think they kidnapped 50 young people that day alone. We think they did it to force people to join their organization,” Gutierrez said. •Dalia, 26: Alma Miriam Ruiz has not had any news of her 26-year-old daughter, Dalia, since she went to a bus station in the town of San Fernando, 170 kilometers north of Ciudad Victoria, five years ago. She disappeared just days after August 27, 2010, when 72 migrants were slaughtered by the Zetas drug cartel in that town. AFP

Art festival. A delegation of dancers from Nuku Hiva island perform on the Upeke tohua in the valley of Taaoa during the 10th Marquesas Art Festival near the village of Atuona on Hiva Oa island in French Polynesia on December 18, 2015. The festival is organized every four years on a different island of the archipelago. AFP

Thai editor loses appeal on royal slur conviction BANGKOK—Thailand’s highest court Wednesday upheld a royal defamation conviction against an online newspaper editor who fell foul of the draconian law after failing to speedily remove reader comments deemed critical of the monarchy. The ruling comes as junta-run Thailand undergoes an unprecedented lese majeste crackdown, with convictions rocketing and record- breaking jail sentences handed down as authorities broaden their interpretation of the law. Chiranuch Premchaiporn, editor of the popular Prachatai news portal, was initially charged over 10 reader comments posted on the website in 2008. She was convicted by Thailand’s Criminal

Court in 2012, which found that while she had not personally committed lese majeste, the 20 days she had taken to remove one of the comments fell foul of the law. The case drew widespread international condemnation at the time, including from Google that described it as a “serious threat” to Internet freedom in Thailand. Wednesday’s final ruling upheld the 2012 conviction that carried an eight-month suspended jail sentence and 20,000 baht ($550) fine. “I am disappointed with the verdict and I think the interpretation of the law has pushed a burden onto service operators,” Chiranuch told AFP after the ruling. Thailand has one of the world’s harshest royal defamation laws. Anyone convicted of insulting the revered but ailing 88-year-old King Bhumibol Adulyadej, or the queen, heir or regent can face up to 15 years in jail on each count. Thai-based media have to self censor when

writing about the monarchy, while website operators routinely delete reader comments that might land them in hot water. Prosecutions have soared since the army, which styles itself as the champion of the monarchy, grabbed power in a coup last year. Some of those who have fallen foul of the law have been given 20-30 year jail sentences, often for comments made on social media. The law is also being increasingly broadly interpreted. Earlier this month an auto-parts worker was charged with lese majeste for a Facebook post about the king’s dog. Academics have found themselves facing investigations for writing about past kings while Thai authorities recently confirmed that even “liking” a critical post on Facebook risks prosecution. Sunai Phasuk, Human Rights Watch’s Thailand researcher, said Chiranuch’s conviction was “tightening a chokehold on freedom of expression”. AFP

Anti-pot campaign provokes giggles

New offering. Farmer David Herve poses with gambas or king

prawns on October 8, 2015, in Saint-Just-Luzac. Already world-famous for his oysters, Herve has also launched the production of gambas, a product that usually comes from the south. AFP

SYDNEY—An anti-marijuana campaign in Australia featuring a human-sized lumbering stoned sloth acting foolishly has backfired and become the brunt of jokes on social media. Launched this week using the slogan “You’re worse on weed”, it attempts to warn teenagers of the dangers of sustained cannabis use by depicting those who smoke it as grumbling, oversized “stoner sloths”. But it has been widely mocked as “ridiculously funny” with thousands of comments on its Facebook page, which has attracted more than 16,000 likes. “Smoke weed, become one of the

most adorable animals in the world. Where do I get some weed?” wrote Andrew Watton-Davies while Scott Hobson noted that: “I literally can’t tell if it’s satire or legit.” Even Premier Mike Baird, whose New South Wales state government is behind the campaign, has poked fun at it. “Just saw the #StonerSloth ads. Not sure where NSW Gov’s ad guys found Chewbacca’s siblings, but those videos are ... Quite something,” he tweeted, referring to the “Star Wars” character. The National Cannabis Prevention and Information Center said the ad did not reflect its views on how campaigns stressing the

dangers of cannabis should be handled. In a statement, it said any campaign should “be aware that teenagers are intelligent and have access to a lot of information, so campaign approaches should respect them and give them credit by avoiding hyperbole”. The NSW Greens called it “juvenile” but the state government insisted it was designed to reach young people before cannabis use became a serious problem. “The campaign is designed to appeal to, and be ‘shareable’ among, teenagers who are some of the most vulnerable to cannabis use,” it said. AFP

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TATUM ANCHETA EDITOR

BING PAREL

A S S O C I AT E E D I T O R

BERNADETTE LUNAS WRITER

life @ thestandard.com .ph

@LIFEatStandard

W EL L BEING

LIFE

The Paris Agreement has galvanized the global community toward large-scale collaborative action to deal with the climate problem

WWF ON PARIS AGREEMENT: More Immediate Steps Needed for Ambitious Action on Climate Change

he global climate agreement in Paris laid a foundation for long-term efforts to fight climate change. The Paris talks signalled that the world is ready for a clean-energy transition. But more needs to be done to secure a path limiting warming to 1.5°C. Governments will need to deliver actions at all levels to close the emissions gap, find resources for the energy transition and protect the most vulnerable. Representatives from more than 180 countries arrived in Paris with national pledges on climate action. After two weeks of negotiations, governments reached an agreement that represents some progress in the long term. This must be urgently strengthened and complemented with accelerated action in the near term if we are to have any hope of meeting the ultimate goal of limiting global warming well below 2°C or 1.5°C. Additionally, the finance for adaptation, loss and damage and scaled up emission reductions should be the first order of work after Paris. While the Paris agreement will go into effect in 2020, scientists warn that to meet the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C or well below 2°C, emissions must peak before 2020 and sharply decline thereafter. The current pledges will provide about half of what is needed, leaving a 12 to 16 gigatonne emissions gap. Tasneem Essop, head of WWF delegation to the UN climate talks remarks: “The Paris agreement is an important milestone. We made progress here, but the job is not done. We must work back home to strengthen the national actions triggered by this agreement. We need to secure faster delivery of new cooperative efforts from governments, cities, businesses and citizens to make deeper emissions cuts, resource the energy transition in developing economies and protect the poor and most vulnerable. Countries must then come back next year with an aim to rapidly implement and strengthen the commitments made here.”

governments to take swift action and nonstate actors (including cities, the private sector and citizens) to continue ambitious cooperative actions and to press governments to do more. Deliver support to vulnerable countries to limit climate impact and address unavoidable damage. The inclusion of a Global Goal on Adaptation as well as separate and explicit recognition for loss and damage are important achievements to raise the profile of those most vulnerable to climate change. The agreement, however, does not go far enough in securing the support necessary for the protection of the poor and vulnerable.

The world is already witnessing the irreversible impacts of climate change

According to Samantha Smith, leader of WWF’s global climate and energy initiative, “We are living in a historic moment. We are seeing the start of a global transition towards renewable energy. At the same time, we’re already witnessing irreversible impacts of climate change. The talks and surrounding commitments send a strong signal to everyone – the fossil fuel era is coming to an end. As climate impacts worsen around the world, we need seize on the current momentum and usher in a new era of cooperative action from all countries and all levels of society.” Yolanda Kakabadse, president of WWFInternational said, “The climate talks in Paris did more than produce an agreement – this moment has galvanized the global community toward large-scale collaborative action to deal with the climate problem. At the same time that a new climate deal was being agreed, more than 1,000 cities committed to 100 percent renewable energy, an ambitious plan emerged from Africa to develop renewable energy sources by 2020, and India launched the

International Solar Alliance, which includes more than 100 countries to simultaneously address energy access and climate change. These are exactly the kind of cooperative actions we need to quickly develop to complement the Paris agreement.”

THE PARIS AGREEMENT NEEDED TO BE FAIR, AMBITIOUS AND TRANSFORMATIONAL. WWF BELIEVES RESULTS IN THESE KEY AREAS WERE MIXED:

Create a plan to close the ambition gap, including finance and other support to accelerate action now and beyond 2020. The agreement includes some of the elements of an ambition mechanism such as fiveyear cycles, periodic global stock-takes for emission reduction actions, finance and adaptation, and global moments that create the opportunity for governments to enhance their actions. But the ambition and urgency of delivering climate action is not strong enough and will be dependent on

Establish a clear long-term 2050 goal to move away from fossil fuels and shift to renewable energy and sustainable land use. By including a long-term temperature goal of well below 2°C of warming and a reference to a 1.5°C goal, the agreement sends a strong signal that governments are committed to acting in line with science. The recognition of the emissions gap and the inclusion of a quantified 2030 gigatonne goal should serve as a basis for the revision of national pledges ahead of 2020. The agreement sets 2018 as a critical global moment for countries to return to the table and assess their current efforts in relation to the global goal. This should result in stronger and more enhanced actions on emission reductions, finance and adaptation. The Paris agreement made good progress by recognizing, in a unique article, that all countries must act to halt deforestation and degradation and improve land management. The agreement also included a process that may provide guidance for land sector accounting. However, there should have been stronger financial support for reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation.

T H U R S D AY : D E C E M B E R 24 , 2 0 1 5

LIFE life @ thestandard.com .ph

@LIFEatStandard

Get up to 20 percent off at Toby’s with Citi Credit Cards

f you’re a sports buff, it’s not too late to do your own Christmas shopping. Head out to the largest sports store chain in the country, Toby’s Sports, and take advantage of Citi’s irresistible offers. Use your Citi credit card to avail of zero percent Citi PayLite and get 15 percent discount on all regular-priced items on participating Toby’s brands from now until January 2016. Get that premium fitness gear you’ve been eyeing the whole of December and pay in easy, light monthly installments of up to six months. Not only does Citi give the easiest PayLite deals, it also slashed down five percent off on all fitness gear and equipment worth P10,000 and higher on participating brands that include treadmills, exercise bikes, dumbbells, kettle bells, and weight benches at discounted prices. They also offer Pay Later where cardholders can start paying up to three months later, use it up on at least P3,000 for any regularpriced items from select brands of Toby’s. Boxing, running, or working out? Check out these amazing offers for participating brands that include Newton, Lotto Footwear, Mitre, Core Fitness, RSL, Equipe balls, SGM Bikes, and Titans Boxing. Toby’s Sports offers some of the best sports and fitness gear from premium brands like Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, Rebook, Vans, Wilson, Prince, TYR, Speedo, Yonex, and RSL among others. For more information about Citi’s PayLite and Pay Later offers, log on to www.citibank.com.ph or call the 24-hour Citi Phone Hotline at 995 9999.

Get healthy, happy feet with Human Nature Deodorizing Foot Spray

‘T

is the season when your feet are most at work. Judging from the traffic situation all over the Metro for the past weeks, it’s better to use your feet to go places. But all that walking is hard work for our feet, which also means getting them ridiculously sweaty. And let’s not get started on what follows. So next time you start running to and fro, just be sure you use the most comfortable shoes and give your tired feet a break with Human Nature’s 100% Natural Deodorizing Foot Spray. Infused with purifying actives from tea tree oil and sugarcane alcohol, Human Nature’s 100% Natural Deodorizing Foot Spray effectively

deodorizes and gently eliminates odorcausing bacteria. “Tea tree, which is an antibacterial essential oil, blends with the natural deodorant active and prevents feet from smelling after a long day,” says Human Nature creative director Camille Meloto. Not only does it prevent those oh-so-smelly feet, it also helps alleviate dry and cracked heels with its moisturizing aloe vera component and refreshing peppermint note. An additional calming lavender scent is also added to the mixture, giving an instant foot spa feel. Human Nature is the first Filipino company to be recognized as cruelty-free by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. It is also the only local brand

that is a member of Natural Products Association of America, which holds its members to the strictest standards of naturalness anywhere in the world. That said, Human Nature’s 100% Natural Deodorizing Foot Spray is 100 percent free of harmful chemicals. It doesn’t contain triclosan, an anti-bacterial chemical present in most sanitizers that is classified by the US Food and Drug Administration as a pesticide, and it also has no synthetic preservatives called parabens. Human Nature’s 100% Natural Deodorizing Foot Spray (P149.75, 100ml) is available in all Human Nature branches. For more information log on to www.humanheartnature.com.

T H U R S D AY : D E C E M B E R 24 , 2 0 1 5

LIFE life @ thestandard.com .ph

@LIFEatStandard

A Triumphant Season

ince 1886, women all over the world have trusted Triumph, recognizing it as the leading lingerie brand that has been tailoring beautifully feminine lingerie and shapewear to suit the needs of all types of women. For every important stage and milestone in a female’s life, there is always a suitable item from Triumph that caters to her needs. This season, visit any of Triumph’s 2,100 stores around the globe to discover a sizable array of functional and stylish pieces in a wide range of sizes. And regardless of the frame you have – whether Asian or European – you are sure to find what you are looking for and may even discover something you didn’t know you needed. Triumph takes great and serious pride in having spent over

a hundred years of consistently improving and innovating the architecture of its collections knowing that there is more to undergarments than just triangles, hooks and garters. Each piece is specially crafted with every stitch and curve carefully studied with a woman’s form in mind so women can look great in everything they wear, making Triumph’s lingerie and shapewear the investment piece that goes with any outfit, no matter the season. Among those who swear by the undergarment and lingerie brand is Amy “Kiwi” Ahomiro, a New Zealander who is the UAAP Season 77 Finals MVP player of the Ateneo de Manila University Volleyball team. “We train all week long and it’s really intense. You need to show up willing to give 100 percent and

above,” she says, adding that training makes her feel fulfilled as she literally puts blood, sweat and tears into it. The intensity and long hours spent by Amy during training requires the best and fullest support to focus on what she needs to get the job done. “I use the high intensity Triumph Sports Bra because the training sessions are really intense. You can’t really do what you want to do if you’re not supported well. It helps me take care of myself, my performance, and that’s really important. We’re always jumping, rolling, diving… just always moving, and when we fall, we have to pop back up... This one gives me the support and confidence that I need to play well,” Amy discloses.

Amy Ahomiro

Whether you’re into low impact activities or are just as passionate about intense contact sports, choosing the right sports bra is paramount. Try on the Triumph difference today and find “the one” piece that truly understands your lifestyle, seamlessly and unfalteringly. Get live updates on the insightful seamstress that is Triumph by liking it on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tipi.triumph, or follow on Instagram @triumph_ph.

SEWING HOPE IN A CUP

SM Woman ambassadors Emee Dy, Melania Solano, and Kimi Lu

Phylicia Pineda

Frannie Jacinto

Dara David-Roa and Drey David

reast cancer remains a serious worldwide threat, being one of the common diseases responsible for mortality among women. Here in the country, the disease is rather prevalent as proven by several studies and reports indicating that the Philippines has the highest incidence of breast cancer in Asia. Every October, there is a worldwide campaign to raise breast cancer awareness to encourage measures that could improve, or even save, the lives of those who have fallen victim to the once unbeatable but now curable disease. But when records show that one in every 13 women is expected to develop breast cancer in her lifetime, a one-month awareness drive is not enough. SM Woman, iCanServe Foundation and Thai lingerie brand Sabina heeded the call for consistent education and joined forces for the Sewing Cup Sewing Heart activity. During the event, supporters and guests were invited to sew 250 Sabina sewing cups – hypoallergenic bra fillers for women who have undergone a mastectomy, which were then donated to the iCanServe Foundation. Sabina is the very first Asian-made sewing bra. The Sabina sewing bra is filled with a padding, which can be adjusted according to any cup size by filling a provided pouch with just enough LLDPE Plastic Beads (highly-purified plastic beads that do not contain harmful chemicals). It is round in shape and has no sharp edges so it does not irritate the skin or pierce through clothes. With this simple but essential innovation, Sabina empowers women

Karen Elizalde and Maddie Dinglasan

who have experienced, or are currently going through the life-changing trial that is breast cancer. By providing survivors a chance to fill a now empty breast cup with a special filler, Sabina, SM Woman and the iCanServe Foundation help women return to their daily lives feeling just a little more like themselves. Gracing the Sewing Cup Sewing Heart activity were iCanServe Foundation chairperson Libet Virata and president Tang Singson. At the event, special guests Martha Revilla Schulze, Bettina Osmeña, Lilibeth Campos, Frannie Jacinto and Bibeth Orteza who participated in the sewing activity, gathering around the pretty pink tables with spools of pink thread and sewing needles. The activity proved that the task, although simple, could create a big impact on the lives of women. The shared sisterhood and compassion among women was deeply felt during the event, as described best by the heartfelt speech of Orteza, a breast cancer survivor. Orteza shared how she heard stories of friends, family and acquaintances being diagnosed with the disease and didn’t think much of it since it happens so often. Only when it happened to her did it become real. She expressed gratitude for the women of iCanServe who flew to her aid when she became afflicted with cancer. If you know someone who is or has bravely battled this life-altering disease, tell them about The Sewing Cup, Sewing Heart bra, exclusively available at SM Woman at The SM Store.

Krissy Cruz

Claire Rodriguez and Tina Lagdameo

Bijaykumar Pandey of Sabina

Maddie Dinglasan and Marta Araneta

Karen Elizalde

T H U R S D AY : D E C E M B E R 24 , 2 0 1 5

LIFE life @ thestandard.com .ph

@LIFEatStandard

HAVE A HEALTHY HOLIDAY WITH SALADSTOP!

Cheaper than a Facial Wrap

o it’s Christmas, and the holiday cheer brings with it lechon, hamon, keso, and so many more festive treats for the season. But that also means extra calories, and extra loosening of the belts. This holiday, try to take it easy on the fatty food. And just because it’s the holidays doesn’t mean you should forget the healthy regimen you worked so hard for already since the year started. Make sure to stay fit and eat healthy this season by going for more greens and healthier alternatives on the table. If you want to

pack up on healthy treats before heading out to these fat inducing Christmas parties, head to SaladStop! one of the best options for healthy, fresh, delicious, and accessible meals at any time. Armed with the passion to revolutionize the food scene with healthy options for customers, SaladStop! is going strong with five stores since it started in December 2014. This month, the newest SaladStop! store opens at the Ground Floor of Glorietta 2, Ayala Center, Makati City. With the commitment to make eating

Cheaper than a Facial Salad

healthy more accessible to more people, the Burgos Circle and Alabang areas are already lined up for next year. Start with the newest addition to SaladStop!’s signature salad selection, the “Cheaper Than A Facial.” Quirky name – but it is a testament to what it can do for your skin. Yes, it is cheaper than a facial, and better for your belly. It consists of romaine lettuce, ripe mango, vermicelli, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots and Thai Lemongrass dressing. Get it tossed in a salad or snuggled together in a wrap

with only 421 kcal as a salad and 717 kcal as a wrap. The classic and other signature salad and wrap selections in the store still make up for a good daily staple on the table.

“We’ve chosen the perfect ambassadors who embody the versatile athletes we want to talk to. These are the women who are willing to take up the challenge, sweat their hearts out, struggle through a tough workout, and still push on. These are the athletes who constantly tell themselves, ‘I got this.’ They reach a point where they just want to stop… and decide not to, pushing themselves to be stronger. adidas will be with her every step of the way by gearing her up with everything she needs

to reach her fitness goals and continue pushing further,” shares Jen Dacasin, Brand Communications & Sports marketing manager of adidas Philippines. The full adidas women SS16 collection offers everything the active woman needs to ensure she can challenge herself to get the most out of her workouts.

Specialty Food Retailers, Inc., a member of the SSI Group, Inc. is the official franchise holder of SaladStop! in the Philippines. SaladStop! is located at Central Square in Bonifacio Highstreet Central, Power Plant Mall, OPL building in C. Palanca St., Makati and Missouri St. in Greenhils.

I GOT THIS: adidas launches a new campaign to connect with active women Meet your newest #fitspiration from adidas PH

he active woman is always on the go and committed to her training routine all year round. To inspire her, adidas Philippines introduced its newest fitness ambassadors – active women who are already influencers in their own fields – with the I Got This campaign, which aims to provide authentic, visceral and compelling content that enables the athletic woman to live life her way across multiple training methods. Joining current adidas women ambassadors Anne Curtis, Solenn Heussaff

and Belle Daza are actress and host Coleen Garcia; volleyball stars Aby Maraño, Melissa Gohing, and Charo Soriano; event host and Lady Volcano Cassie Umali; personal trainer Fay Hokulani; yogini and certified raw food chef Mona Lisa Neuboeck; yoga and dance fitness teacher Nikki Torres; crossfitters Nickey Reyes and Trasienne Estrada; and indoor cycling instructors Yessa Yu-Caparas and Rachelle Que. These athletes will be the new voices of inspiration for the active woman.

Join the conversation @adidasph and @adidaswomen on Twitter and Instagram with #IGotThis and #adidasph.

T HUR S DAY : DECEMBER 24, 2015

SHOWBITZ

ISAH V. RED EDITOR

isahred @ gmail.com

Migo Adecer And KleA PinedA Are StArStrucK’S ultiMAte SurvivorS

ast Saturday, GMA Network’s original realitybased artista search Starstruck proclaimed this season’s Ultimate Male and Female Survivors. Migo Adecer won and was the Ultimate Male Survivor. “Nagulat ako talaga. Hindi ko talaga iniexpect na ako ang mananalo but I kept on striving for what I want.

I just thank God that it pulled off talaga. And I can’t wait to share the happiness to (sic) my parents, my family, and to the people who supported me.” Adecer also celebrated his birthday on Dec. 20 and he considered his win as the biggest gift from God. “I want to thank God kasi this is the biggest present He has ever given me for my

birthday. Sobrang hirap ng mga challenges sa Starstruck and seeing it from where I’ve come from and finally pulling it off, super relieved and happy ako and I thank God talaga He did not let me down. Never has He ever let me down.” Klea Pineda claimed the Ultimate Female Survivor title. “Hindi ko po ito talaga inaasahan. Hanggang sa dumagdag na lang ng

dumagdag yung blessings ni Lord kaya sobrang nagpapasalamat ako sa Kanya.” For her, emerging as Starstruck’s Ultimate Female Survivor is one of the most beautiful gifts she ever received for Christmas. “Ito na po talaga yung pinakamagandang regalo na natanggap ko this Christmas. Sobrang saya ko po at sobrang blessing po ito ni Lord

sa’kin. At nagpapasalamat po ako sa Kanya dahil another bonus na naman po ito galing sa Kanya.” Klea and Migo each took home P1 million in cash, a house and lot from Camella worth P2 million, and a five-year exclusive contract with GMA Artist Center worth P5 million. They will also be part of the remake of the highly successful fantaserye Encantadia.

Pia Wurtzbach is Miss Universe 2015. Photos from Miss Universe Press Site

FirSt lASer Projection SySteM in South eASt ASiA

M Cinema will be the first in all of Southeast Asia to use the film industry’s latest movie asset: the laser projection system. SM Cinema redefines the premium 3D cinema experience by launching Southeast Asia’s first laser projection system at the forefront of Cebu, SM Seaside City. The Christie® 6P laser projection system will be used on SM’s new large format theatre entitled “SM Large Screen Cinema,” which boasts a super-sized screen almost 30 percent larger than the regular cinema screen size. Representing the pinnacle of laser-illuminated projection, the Christie® 6P laser produces the brightest images with 80 percent illumination. The Christie® 6P laser offers the best 3D platform that accurately reproduces the colors of the actual movie set, developing the most immersive cinema experience. The SM Large Screen Cinema also proudly uses the Dolby Atmos Sound System and the top-of-the-line Christie Vive

Speakers, engulfing its audience in riveting surround-sound. SM Large Screen Cinema will house 351 guests, seating patrons in a stadium-like setting. FirSt SM center StAge in cebu SM Cinema opens the first “Center Stage” in Cebu at SM Seaside City. A hybrid between a cinema and a stage theatre, it is the perfect venue for movie premieres, community plays, school programs, and live events with a maximum capability of 830 seats. Aesthetically striking even from its grand lobby, the theatre boasts of a versatile space with ample theatre lighting, two standard dressing rooms, and one star dressing room. On days that the theatre is not used for events, the cinema screen plunges down to reveal an impressive space ready for movie watching. The Center Stage in SM Seaside City Cebu follows suit to the Center Stage in Manila, which has served as home to majestic movie watching, pageants, concerts, and other grand occasions.

Offering the best movie options in the country: SM Seaside City Cebu earlier opened with two Director’s Club Cinemas and four regular sized cinemas at the SM Seaside City Cebu. in tiMe For StAr WArS: the Force AWAKenS The SM Large Screen Cinema and Center Stage open just in time for the most-awaited galactic saga of the year, Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Watch the latest sequel to the epic film at the country’s best cinemas. SM Large Screen Cinema will show the film from its opening date on Dec.17 and all throughout the period of the Metro Manila Film Festival, while cinemas such as the Center Stage will screen the film on the movie’s first week and will resume on Jan. 8 onwards. The SM LARGE SCREEN CINEMA and CENTER STAGE are on the second floor of SM Seaside City Cebu. For more inquiries, log on to www.smcinema.com.

(From left to right) Ms. Lhot Neri (Regional Operations Manager of Seaside City Cebu), Ms. Marissa Fernan (Vice President of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., Cebu City), Ms. Jocelyn Veloso (Vice President of the Shopping Center Management Corporation, Visayas Region), Mr. Edgar Tejerero (President of SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc.), and Mr. Rodolfo Palermo (Division Manager for SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc., Visayas and Mindanao)

WatCh Pia WurtzbaCh’s historiC miss universe Win again

elive Pia Wurtzbach’s historic winning Miss Universe moment on Lifestyle’s encore telecast of the 64th Miss Universe. Pia finally takes home the highly coveted beauty title back to the Philippines after 42 years and is the third Philippine rep-

resentative to be hailed as Miss Universe after Gloria Diaz and Margarita Moran. Celebrate Pia’s win once more this holiday on Lifestyle (Sky Cable and Destiny Cable channel 52) at 12 midnight, Dec. 26 (Saturday) and on Dec. 27 in ABS-CBN’s Sunday’s Best.

Pasko ng PasasaLamat Neozep brand ambassador Coco Martin led the turnover ceremony recently of Neozep tablets, raincoats and face masks to members of the Highway Patrol Group as the highlight of the Pasko ng Pasasalamat event held at Ever Gotesco Commonwealth. At the same event, Martin recognized the commitment of HPG in maintaining order and road safety, most especially in addressing the traffic problems in Metro Manila. Martin said his role in his current hit TV series as a mem-

ber of the Philippine National Police has provided him with learning experiences about the many challenges that are being addressed by our police. Joining Coco is the Neozep team led by (from left) Claire Papa, Unilab’s director for external affairs; Christine Nuevo and Ina Roa, Neozep brand team; Police Senior Superintendent Fortunato Guerrero - Chief of Staff of PNP-HPG (sixth from left); Coco Martin, Neozep product endorser; and Mary Margaret Go, Neozep brand team (rightmost).

iPhoto

T HUR S DAY : DECEMBER 24, 2015

SHOWBITZ isahred @ gmail.com

‘FIt FOR FaShIOn’ SEaSOn 2 PREmIERES In JanUaRy

f your New Year resolution is to get fit and change your life, then you should definitely tune in to the new season of Fit for Fashion (F4F), premiering on Star World Jan. 10. The inspirational, first-of-its-kind reality TV show, which aims to motivate its viewers to start their own transformational journeys, will kick off 2016 with a bang with 14 women and men from all over the world who will begin a life-changing course to redefine not only their bodies but also their mind and self-image with the help of four experts – Louise Roe, Mitch Chilson, Christine Bullock, and Todd Anthony Tyler. Following a successful first season, Fitness First, one the largest fitness brands in the world, has once again partnered with Imagine Group, an international TV production powerhouse, to create Fit for Fashion Season 2. The second season welcomes yet another key sponsor, Zalora, Asia’s online fashion destination that plays an integral role in making Season 2 even more captivating and entertaining for viewers. According to Riaz Mehta, president and founder of Imagine Group, “The first season of Fit for Fashion was a tremendous success leading to interest in the show from broadcasters in markets ranging from Scandinavia through to China. With the upcoming season, we have taken the show to new heights with dramatic physical challenges and fashion transformations that make our contestants look like Hollywood stars. And most importantly our contestants have achieved amazing six-pack bodies in a few short weeks with the help of our expert fitness trainers. Our audiences will not want to miss a moment of this journey!” In its first season, F4F was enjoyed by millions of audiences across the South East Asia region and ranked in the top five Fox programs in the fourth quarter (October to December) of 2014. The show also accumulated a strong online presence with 500,000 Facebook fans.

Simon Flint, CEO of Fitness First Asia disclosed, “Season 1 was very influential - it was great to see how it helped many people realise the importance of fitness in transforming their lives. The show gives us a great platform to share knowledge about how to get the best out of our bodies and get to where we want to be in life. In Season 2, we want to build on this and help viewers (not just the contestants) to learn even more from the show, whilst being fantastically entertained. We are building in interactive elements into the show including innovative tools such as CustomFit 3.01 and a carefully designed 10-Week Get Fit Programme2. These two ‘bonus’ features will enhance the overall experience for Fit for Fashion fans as they will get a taste of the show’s contestants training, and hopefully start their own transformations wherever they are.” While Fitness First have been working hard to spice up the fitness side of the show, new sponsor Zalora, has been making their own contribution to ‘up the fashion game’ for Season 2. “We are excited to be partnering with Fitness First and Imagine Group on the show,” said Tito Costa, Managing Director, Zalora, Group. “We are also proud to support Asian producers who generate quality local content for the region, especially on a show that is aligned with our brand values.” Throughout the course of the show, contestants will be facing a number of fashion challenges. The contestants will certainly be expected to flaunt their newly transformed bodies and self-confidence, and Zalora, has ensured that they will be showing off the new them in the trendiest high street fashion labels available on Zalora,.com. Fit for Fashion is the first-ever reality TV shows that brings together the world fitness and fashion. The 10-episode series follows the empowering and inspiring quest of 14 individuals seeking to transform their lives.

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ANSWER FOR PREVIOUS PUZZLE ACROSS 1 Wine served warm 5 Shoot-’em-up 10 Warehouse pallet 14 Presently 15 Be loud, as a radio 16 Mandlikova of tennis 17 Biting fly 18 Ocean deep (2 wds.) 20 Shaman’s quest

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Overlords Huge frights Find in the dark Very strong Tiny legume Basilica area Authorizes Parboil Dove’s shelter Ms. Hagen of films Cowhide puncher — es Salaam Wis. neighbor

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Cool 103, to Pliny Mountain refrain Wabash loc. Magnetism Winter Olympics event Puts out vapor “I” trouble? Lamprey hunter Yuletide remnant (2 wds.) Classes Lands in “la mer” Hits dead-center Cheek dampener Fling Ringlet Vacillate (hyph.)

DOWN 1 Droop 2 Sothern or Blyth 3 RV haven 4 Chants 5 Expresses disapproval 6 Ladd and Alda 7 Hebrew letters 8 Historical period 9 Good-as-new tire 10 Wood finish

The new Miss Universe is a PLDT Home ambassador

PLDT's Manny V. Pangilinan and Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach

PLDT ambassaDor Pia WurTzbaCh is miss universe 2015

fter a 42-year drought for the crown, the Philippines makes pageant history once again. Miss Philippines and PLDT HOME DSL ambassador Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach was recently crowned Miss Universe 2015 after a dramatic coronation night held at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. Wurtzbach bested 80 women from various parts of the globe to claim the country’s third Miss Universe title. She follows in the footsteps of Gloria Diaz who won in 1969 and Margie Moran who brought home the crown in 1973.

roberT De niro in Cnn’s ‘TaLk asia’ As an actor, Robert De Niro’s career can best be described as prolific. His roles, spanning from the mysterious to the colorful, weave their way into becoming cultural mainstays. Starring in almost 100 movies, with six Oscar nominations and two wins, his footprint in Hollywood is as iconic as the many characters in De Niro’s portfolio. Off screen, the New York native has found other ways to keep himself busy; his projects including the famous restaurant chain Nobu, Tribeca productions and Studio City in Macau. Next month in Talk Asia, CNN’s Manisha

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015

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“We could not be any more proud of our very own PLDT Home DSL ambassadress as she embarks on this new journey as Miss Universe 2015.” PLDT VP and Home Marketing Director Gary Dujali said. “Pia has been with us throughout the year as we aggressively went around the country bringing the family-sized broadband connection of Home DSL to more Filipino homes nationwide.” PLDT Home DSL is the country’s number one broadband with over one million subscribers. For more information, log on to www.pldthome.com

Renowned “Citizen” Price hike (abbr.) Dit opposites Wish undone Max opposite Lyrical Staple, perhaps Chops down Old-fashioned writer Handled clumsily Dais Some flights Uncanny Judy of “Laugh-In” Most sacred — of one’s imagination Bareheaded Gemstone feature 1865 yielder Admiral’s org. Hawks Saga — monster Singles McClurg of sitcoms Hearing aid? Tolstoy’s name Bandleader — Kyser Marquee notice of yore

Hollywood star De Niro talks about his career as an actor and a businessman

Tank sits down with the legendary actor in Macau’s new leisure resort Studio City. De Niro talks about being in Asia, what he bases his business decisions on, and his message to young people who are trying to make it in the movie industry. Talk Asia airs on CNN International 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 7.

T HUR S DAY : DECEMBER 24, 2015

SHOWBITZ isahred @ gmail.com

meeT huaWei’S men of STyle

tyle and Substance---two words that probably best describes KC Montero, Marco Lobregat, AJ Dee, Marvin Conanan, and Rod Nepomuceno. Five gentlemen who have made names in their respective fields and have always looked good while doing it. KC Montero began his career as an MTV VJ in 1999. He has since transitioned to radio and TV becoming one of the most sought after and versatile hosts in the country. Besides being a commercial model in the 80s, Marco Lobregat used to work for media outfits abroad, writing supplements and advertorials for major publications. Now he takes on new challenge to promote the best of local food and tourism. He has been dubbed as the hottest mushroom farmer by buzzfeed.com and his love for mushrooms spawned Ministry of Mushrooms, a company he set up with his friends involved in the farming and marketing of gourmet mushrooms in the country. From the big screen actor AJ Dee is now making his mark in cyberspace as The FiloDapper, a fashion blogger who can be seen in almost all high profile events. Through his fashion blog for men AJ shares his expertise suggesting different looks that guys can try. Another style blogger is Purveyr Marvin Conanan. He describes the site as a “local Hypebeast” designed to cultivate the Philippine modern culture through digital media, innovative projects and community building. Finally, there’s Rod Nepomuceno, a lawyer, entrepreneur, marketing whiz, and one of the most respected TV hosts in the country. On December 7, these men shared center stage with an equally multifaceted device that has earned rave reviews and has become the choice of both iOS and Android users looking for a smart watch that can keep up with their intricate lifestyle. The fully circular watch features a 1.4-inch touch-sensitive AMOLED display, scratch-proof sapphire crystal lens, cold-forged stainless steel frame, and comes with a builtin heart rate monitor and 6-Axis motion sensors. Powered by Android Wear, the Huawei Watch represents the next evolutionary step for the brand in terms of wearable technology. “This is the first smartwatch in the Huawei wearable family and is also the first watch on the market that truly bridges the gap between fashion and technology. As part of our expanding line of premium wearable products, the Huawei Watch was designed and created to enhance and be part of the consumer’s everyday lives. It is our response to consumers requests who (sic) are looking for a

smart watch that combines timeless design and truly usable features, says Charles Wu, country manager of Huawei’s consumer business group. “The Huawei Watch continues our commitment ‘Make It Possible,’ as we deliver a truly premium smartwatch that is technologically innovative allowing you to coordinate with your smartphone whether it is Android or iOS,” says Wu. TimeleSS DeSign Designed by a team of experienced watch designers that have a rich history in creating fashionable and timeless watches, the attention-todetail becomes apparent upon first glance with its full circle “swiss inspired” design. The quality of materials used all around puts elevates the Huawei Watch in another category of class. Made of more than 130 components, the Huawei Watch has all the traditional elements of a classic watch, including a crown, frame and hinge built from highquality and scratch resistant coldforged stainless steel making it 40 percent harder. The polished 42mm stainless steel body comes in at 11.3mm thick, which makes it slim and very comfortable to wear. The body of the watch is also both corrosion and scratch-resistant. Unlike most regular watches, the Huawei Watch places its crown at the intuitive 2 o’clock press button, offering the highest levels of control and comfort to the user. The Huawei Watch has a display to be reckoned with boasting of a sparkling AMOLED 1.4-inch display at 400 x 400 pixels resolution in 286 ppi at a 10,000:1 high contrast ratio, making it the most vibrant Android Wear smartwatch in the world. The high-density display makes images look crisp and full of life in all viewing angles. Users can also choose from more than 40 unique watch faces, including a full range of watch straps made from different materials. The Huawei watch features a range of rose gold, stainless steel and black frames to choose from, as well as a variety of bespoke watch face designs, across a range of classic, luxury, business, feminine, modern and simple aesthetics. The choice of straps includes stainless steel mesh, stainless steel links, rose gold, and black-plated stainless steel links, and brown and black leather. Easy to change, they will fit any watch strap with 18mm width giving you countless customization options. SmarT WiThin, Dual CompaTibiliTy Unlike other smart watches, the Huawei Watch works on both iOS and Android. Powered by Google’s proprietary Android Wear, receiving SMS, email,

Marco Lobregat, Aj Dee, Al Dimapilis, Charles Wu, Marvin Conanan , Rod Nepomuceno and Kc Montero

Female models strutting on the runway with various models of Huawei watches

calendar, app, and phone call notifications has never been easier or more convenient. The Huawei watch is compatible with smartphones running Android 4.3 or higher, and is powered by a Qualcomm 1.2GHz processor for optimal performance. It also includes 4GB of storage, 512MB of RAM and Bluetooth 4.1 support. When paired with your smartphones, the Huawei watch enables you to stay connected wherever you are, with instant notifications on incoming calls, texts, instant messages and emails. Bluetooth connectivity allows wireless headphone usage, and offline music download support. Music can be started via voice commands, with users able to search for destinations and navigate their way there using the same voice actions. Locating missing phones has never been easier than with the watch’s “find my phone” function. More than just a fashion statement the Huawei watch is also perfect for the sports enthusiast, or just those interested in tracking fitness levels. It features a heart rate monitor sensor, which can accurately measure heart rates. The sensor protrudes slightly for better skin contact and greater accuracy. With its 6-Axis motion sensor, gyroscope and accelerometer the Huawei watch can detect and track, in real-time, if a user is walking, running, biking, hik-

ing or sleeping. Specifically, users can monitor everything from the number of calories burned, to heart rate, climbing height, steps taken, and distance travelled. To encourage consumers to live happier and healthier lives, Huawei is developing a wearable’s health and lifestyle ecosystem that will help users set goals and track their progress. Huawei has partnered with several app developers including Jawbone, to strengthen the Huawei Health Ecosystem and create more health and fitness apps that will encourage users to live healthier lifestyles. “As more consumers demand more than just connectivity, Huawei takes the lead in wearable technology. Huawei has invested a lot of research and development to make sure that we are able to combine the best in technology and innovation with premium materials and a classic look and feel. As wearable devices become one of the most significant trends in the device industry, we are making use of Huawei’s expertise in technology and innovation to become the leader in the wearable space.” The Huawei Watch Classic retails for PhP19,990.00 while Huawei Watch Active retails for PhP 23,990.00 Both models come with a 2-year warranty. The Huawei Watch will be available starting December 10 at Huawei Experience Store and brand shops, and online via Zalora.

A male model shows off the new Huawei watch

Jacky Gao, Huawei Philippines CEO

Jojo Vega, Huawei Sales and Marketing Director

T HUR S DAY : DECEMBER 24, 2015

ISAH V. RED EDITOR isahred @ gmail.com

SHOWBITZ Miss Universe 2015

Miss PhiliPP PhiliPP PPines’ ines’ draM dra Matic win By Eton B. ConCEpCion

he can finally scream “Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Philippines, Miss Universe 2015! In one of the most shocking and dramatic ends to the world’s most watched Miss Universe pageant finals, Miss Colombia, Ariadna Gutierrez, was announced the winner and Miss Philippines as first runner up. Some four minutes later, Steve Harvey, the host, corrected himself after apologizing for a terrible mistake and read out Miss Philippines as Miss Universe 2015. The crowd burst in a thunderous and deafening cheers at the Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas on Sunday night (morning in Manila). Pia Wurtzbach, visibly stunned, missed and was robbed of her once in a lifetime winning moment for about five minutes. In her electric blue Albert Andrada gown accepted the flowers, sash and crown later from Paulina Vega. Miss Universe 2014, visibly disappointed, could not do anything but give the crown and sash to the 64th winner of Miss Universe. Host Steve Harvey quickly apologized and urged the audience not to hold it against the ladies as he took full responsibility for the mix up and horrible mistake in reading out the wrong name on the card. Contestants were seen crowding around Gutierrez to comfort her while others swarmed to greet Wurtzbach as the live show was cut without her victory walk. Wurtzbach,who described herself a “Bond Girl in-the-making,” looked elegant in her Andrada creation. She was the first in the Top 5 Q&A portion to answer the question and it was about the United States military presence in her country. She said, “I think that the US and the Philippines have a good relationship with each other. We’ve been colonized by the Americans and we have their culture in our traditions. Also were are very welcoming with the Americans and I don’t see any problem with that at all.” Host Harvey joked about how well Wurtzback nailed that answer. After being called in the Top 3 with Gutierrez and Miss USA Olivia Jordan, Wurtzbach was asked what she thought it takes to be Miss Universe. Her answer: “I will use my voice to raise awareness to causes like awareness of HIV, especially, in the Philippines,” and she wanted to show the world that as Miss Universe she is “confidently beautiful with a heart.” Miss USA, whose answer was “to empower women all over the world

and inspire people to believe in themselves” was the second runner up. The Miss Universe Organisation and Fox got in the judging panel Emmy Award-nominated actress Niecy Nash, celebrity entertainment mogul Perez Hilton, Miss Universe 2012 Olivia Culpo and football legend Emmitt Smith. Together with Harvey for live reporting was Roselyn Sanchez with performers Seal, The Band Perry and Charlie Puth. This year’s Miss Universe decided to take the fans worldwide to have a say in who gets crowned as Miss Universe. Fans were allowed to vote on each category and help decide who would walk away with the coveted crown. Harvey announced Wurtzbach to have garnered the most number of votes, proving Filipino fans gave her massive support. Hollywood Filipino fashion designer Oliver Tolentino, who’s creations have graced the red carpets of Oscars, Golden Globes, Grammy and Emmys, was in the nick of time providing Wurtzbach a gown direct from his Beverly Hills boutique when the original gown did not arrive on time. Wurztbach chose from Tolentino’s selection a red mermaid gown embellished with red Swarovski crystals, which she amazingly wore during the all important preliminary competitions where the top 15 were selected. Tolentino said that he wanted to help the Philippines to win the Miss Universe crown. Wurtzbach also wore the national costume by Albert Andrada, a fully beaded and embroidered ecru terno with tiered hemline and traditional panuelo. While the Philippines is considered among the heavies at the Miss Universe pageant in the last five years, 2010 to 2014, with Venezuela, Colombia and Brazil, beauty experts were unclear what the new Miss Universe owners, entertainment company WME-IMG, were looking for as winner. NBC Universal and Donald Trump co-owned the Miss Universe Organisation until June this year when Trump sold the Miss Universe Organization, including Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants to WME-IMG. Wurtzbach, a 26-year-old, Culinary Arts graduate, model and former member of ABS CBN Star Magic, broke the country’s 42 long years of waiting to have a Filipino Miss Universe crowned in the new century, becoming the third Filipina to own the title after Gloria Diaz in 1969 and Margarita Moran in 1973.

Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Miss Universe Philippines 2015 is crowned the winner at the conclusion of The 2015 MISS UNIVERSE® in Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino telecast worldwide on FOX Sunday, Dec. 20 (Monday morning in Manila) Photos courtesy of Miss Universe Organisation photographer Darren Decker